8th Annual SCV Charity Chili Cook-Off is Getting Spicy (Check out who the judges are…)

January 20, 2020 by evebushman

The 8th Annual Santa Clarita Valley Charity Chili Cook-off is set to feature 40 amateur chefs

to compete for the most prestigious awards of the event.

The 8^th annual SCV Charity Chili Cook-off, and organizers are looking for sponsors and chili cooker contestants. The event will take place at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17^th, 2020 (St. Patrick’s Day) at The Hyatt Regency in Valencia. Chefs will go head-to-head in an effort to take the People’s Choice and Judges Choice awards for the top three chilies’ in each category.

The earnings raised this year will be donated to two local charities, FeedSCV and the Wish Foundation wellness centers.

FeedSCV will use the donation for their weekend backpack program from FeedSCV, “Ready To Learn.” The program currently serves The Newhall School District. It provides meals for kids identified as “in need” by the district’s social services, some, classified as homeless. That can include kids staying with relatives (couch-surfing) or living with parents in cars or RVs, or similar circumstances. Each Friday, the kids get to take home a backpack filled with “shelf-stable” single-serving meals for the weekend: Three meals per day and a few snacks as well. Volunteers acquire the food, stuff the backpacks, and deliver them to the schools each week. Currently, the program is nearing capacity and the additional funds will allow increased capacity both in terms of food, and access to a larger assembly site.

The WiSH Education Foundation’s mission is to bridge the gap in state funding; we fund programs that are not paid for by tax dollars alone. Our goal is to provide the tools for success in the classroom and to benefit as many students as possible with our dollars. Our funding focus is STEAM with an emphasis on the Arts – we strongly feel that all students, regardless of interest and passion, deserve support to reach their potential. At this time and given the recent tragedy at Saugus High School, WiSH is focusing attention and detail on wellness across the district. That directed funding would provide whatever is needed for the mental wellness of our student body across the district which would include wellness centers, a tech-free safe space that offers classes, seminars, self-help and triage for those needing a break any time during their school day. WiSH is also raising funding to renovate the Saugus High quad as a comfortable and social gathering space for the campus.

“We hope to raise more money than ever for these two charities this year.” said event co-founder Nicole Stinson. “It has been humbling to watch this event gain popularity each year, and I am excited with our new celebrity judges so far this year Eve Bushman with Eve Bushman Consulting and Eves Wine 101, Austin Dave an award-winning multimedia journalist and two additional judges to be announced in the coming weeks.

Since 2012, the chili cook-off organizers have donated the proceeds to different local nonprofit organizations.

Those who attend the upcoming chili cook-off will have the opportunity to enjoy live entertainment, silent and live auctions, casino tables and a 50/50 opportunity drawing.

“Opportunities are still available for sponsors, to register to be a chili cooker contestant, and a vendor” said event organizers. “So, grab your secret family recipe, get your chili pot out of storage, and get cooking.”

Contestant fees are $125 per person, while general admission tickets are scheduled to be sold online for $25 before Feb. 14 and $30 after Feb.14. In addition, a limited number of advance-purchase VIP tickets are also available for $65, which includes early entry at 5:30, one drink ticket, VIP area access, VIP parking, swag bag and VIP hors-d’oeuvres.

Sponsors to date include 24/7 Events, Scorpion , Christy Smith, Loan Depot, A1 Party, The Santa Clarita Signal, Santa Clarita Magazine, KHTS Radio, Valley Publications, J & M Entertainment, Ring of Smiles Photo booth, Logix Federal Credit Union, Schlick Art, Event Staffing , Skycrest Signs, Nealies Skillet, SCVTV, Valley Wide Escrow, Back to Health Chiropractic, Hyatt Regency Valencia, Remax of SCV, Finance of America, My Print Express, NextHome Real Estate Rockstars, The Douglas Roberts Insurance Agency, Newhall Escrow, Southland Regional Association of Realtors, Bank of the Sierra, Casino Kings.

For more information please visit www.scvcharitychilicookoff.com or call Nicole Stinson Estate Realty Group 661-816-4234 or Steve Portaro 310-800-3064.

How Was Wine On The Roof…aka Wine Under the Roof? We Have ALL Of The Details!

May 18, 2019 by evebushman

Wine on the Roof was not held on May 16 on top of the Macy’s parking structure at Westfield Valencia Town Center. Instead, the event was in a different location and started earlier than planned. Why the changes? The rain! WiSH Education Foundation’s Executive Director Amy Daniels made the swift decision – after much consideration to everyone’s expectations – and moved the event inside one of the vacant shops in the mall. When guests started to arrive 30 minutes early, in the rain, they were let in early – and thoroughly enjoyed a longer stay at the “wine bar” that was filled with wines generously donated by the friends of the WiSH Education Foundation.

Wish Education Foundation Exec. Dir. Amy Daniels, and then some of the participating winemakers and vintners, left to right: Nate Hasper, Joey Perry and Steve Lemley, Pulchella Winery; Adam Hasper, Parhelion Cellars; Rick Pratt, Two Papas Wines; Dusty Nabor, Dusty Nabor Wines; Mark Blatty, Byron Blatty Wines.

Daniels, and a slew of volunteers, managed to turn an empty retail store into a party place that everyone appreciated. Neal Scott, of Nealie’s Skillet, commented, “Man, if I had a million dollars what a incredible space to make it an event space with Lyfe Kitchen. The mixers, weddings, big business events, city events…using both spots would be incredible. How cool would that be for the community.” Also on hand, and of note, was Neal’s wife Haydee who stepped up and volunteered to help with service all evening long.

The evening began with three appetizer courses paired with the private wine donations, speeches by Daniels and the president of WiSH, Richard Cohn. Next came Eve Bushman, of Eve’s Wine 101 and the creator and co-host of both Wine on the Roof and Cocktails on the Roof. Finally the newest co chair and winery recruiter Steve Lemley, of Pulchella Winery, spoke about the wineries and the pairings he and Bushman had done. The third co-chair of the event, Marlee Lauffer of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation, was vital in seeking the private wine donations. Lauffer chose to happily wave to her co-hosts from her seat surrounded by dozens of her friends and long time supporters.

Each course was presented with a wine – paired by Lemley and Bushman – and single menu card that listed the dish, chef, restaurant, winery, wine and winemaker. (Guests were prompted to take the menu cards home with them so they can reach out to the restaurants and wineries that they enjoyed.)

Musician Lance Allyn serenaded the party with live music throughout the evening, only taking breaks when Master of Ceremonies Ed Masterson took to the microphone to announce the next dish and invite both the winemaker and chef up to speak.

A dozen winemakers and vintners were seated among the guests to answer questions about the wines. A chef’s table was also set, on the off chance that the chefs and support staff could take a break. Many didn’t, instead they opted to help each other plating. “It’s quite the sight to see three chefs – or more – from different restaurants helping each other,” Bushman said. “It’s my favorite part of the evening and I always try to snap a photo or two of the action.” Chef Daniel Otto, of Old Town Junction, commented, “Awesome event. Thank you everyone for coming together and making this a very special event. Always amazing to collaborate with such talented people.”

The Pairings

Appetizer Hour

Newhall Press Room: Valley Board Selections. Charcuterie, cheese, dried fruit and nuts. Chef Trevor. Paired with Our Cellared Wine Selections Generously Donated by Dear Friends of the WiSH Education Foundation.

Greater Pacific: Sea Bass with Spring Peas. Creamy Polenta, green peas, snap peas, Meyer lemon. Chef Lindsey. Paired with Our Cellared Wine Selections Generously Donated by Dear Friends of the WiSH Education Foundation.

Smokin’ Bar-B-Quties: Sweet & Savory Beef. Flap Meat, Honey, Lime Juice, Jerk Spice, Scallions, Soy Sauce. Marinated overnight, then skewered. Scallion Garnish. Chef Sonja Randall. Paired with Our Cellared Wine Selections Generously Donated by Dear Friends of the WiSH Education Foundation.

Seated Dining

Salt Creek Grille: Mesquite grilled pear and scallop salad with butter lettuce and a poppy seed dressing. Chef Ignacio Munoz. Rose by Pulchella Winery and Ascension Cellars Rose.

Nealie’s Skillet: Sweet potato tower. Layers of cooked spinach, roasted sweet potatoes, fried tofu, wild mushrooms, touch of soy chorizo, with a garlic balsamic reduction with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. Chef Neal Scott. Paired with Grenache by Two Papas and Blending Lab.

Marston’s: Crispy Roasted Chicken Breast, Cream Cheese Yams, Tomato Fondue & Shiitake Aioli. Chef Jim McCardy Paired with Pinot Noir by Hoi Polloi Winery and Pagter Brothers.

Olive Terrace: Braised Short Ribs Stroganoff. Sautéed sweet onions, mushrooms, pinot noir reduction & vodka sauce over fettuccine with crème fraîche and crisp shoestrings potatoes. Chef Cody Gerstman and Chef Alfonso Canuto. Paired with Cabernet Sauvignon by Mystic Hills Vineyard and Dusty Nabors Wine.

Old Town Junction: Slow Braised Pork Shoulder in Duck Fat burnt orange, atop cous cous quinoa pesto, splashed with a blueberry Sichuan pepper reduction. Chef Daniel Otto. Paired with Syrah Blend by Blatty Wines and Golden Star Vineyards.

Wolf Creek Restaurant: Chocolate cherry pot de crème with hazelnut short bread. Pastry Chef Meghan Launier. Paired with Zinfandel by Parhelion Cellars and Triassic.

The Raves

Raves once more piled up on social media, to the thrill of organizers as it seemed there were more than 200 comments from our limit of 200 guests. Here is a snapshot:

“We both had a really good time. The food and wine was fabulous and the work involved to pull it off must have been exhausting.” Commented Lee Williams from Golden Star Vineyards.

“Fun night under the roof!” Linda Hafizi, Santa Clarita Magazine.

“I loved it! Food and wine were amazing. This event was so well run that the location was changed in 48 hours and you wouldn’t have even known this wasn’t the original location. Great job everyone!“ Kathy Lockhart.

“What an amazing evening!” Jennifer Ramos.

“Fantastic night with great friends at Wine on the Roof!! What an amazing evening!!!!! Thank you to Amy Sieger Daniels, the entire committee and all the community volunteers for making this a night to remember.” Dawn Begley

“It was awesome! Thank you for all your hard work!” Marianne Linder.

“Let’s rename it Wine Not on the Roof! Due to the unfavorable weather the venue was moved indoors at the last minute. Kudos to Westfield Valencia Town Center for providing us with an empty shop that we were able to convert for the event!” Mitch Russell.

“I enjoyed! Great event Eve!” Sonja Randall.

“Another fantastic event in the books for the WISH Education Foundation! We have THE best people in our community. Game changers and difference makers.” Amanda Benson.

“So much fun sharing all this passion with our community,” Lemley said when the event was at its close. “There’s nothing better than being surrounded by people you love.”

Private Cellar Donors for the “Wine Bar”

Brenda and Mike Nielsen, Julie and Steve Sturgeon, Rose and Steve Chegwin, John Shaffery, Marlee Lauffer, Elizabeth and Steve Hopp, Terri and Carl Kanowsky, Chris and Jeannie Carpenter, Nate Hasper, Amy and Steve Elzer.

Sponsors

Westfield Valencia Town Center, Eve Bushman/Eve’s Wine 101, Santa Clarita Magazine, SOS Entertainment, and Jennifer Ramos Social Conduit.

Committee Members (co-hosts and WiSH representatives listed in text above)

Jennifer Chadwick, Jennifer Ramos, Sharlene Duzick, Alexander Hafizi, Mitch Russell, Dawn Begley and Judy Penman. The restaurant prep coordinator was Jennifer Chadwick of Salt Creek Grille.

Photos

Plenty of photos can be found just by searching Wine on the Roof on Facebook. Dave Barragan, of Storicam did both boomerang and still photos that can be seen here: https://app.stori.cam/User/Public/Gallery?eventDetails=Wine_On_TheRoof_2019_73539

Bushman’s Public Photos

Front page news and people: https://www.facebook.com/eve.bushman/posts/10216634087392038

More people and wine:

https://www.facebook.com/eve.bushman/posts/10216634135513241

Food and chefs:

https://www.facebook.com/eve.bushman/posts/10216634165153982

Dessert and more:

https://www.facebook.com/eve.bushman/posts/10216634184114456

Volunteers

Led by Sharlene Duzick the volunteers also included Kat Kombrinck, Michael Garcia, Becca Garcia, Cheryl Gray, Kathleen Marquart, Allen Marquart, Patti Handy, Hilary Blaha, Dawn Abasta, Rebecca Deluca, Jessica Chambers, Danise Davis, Ingrid Blanco, Larry Fliechman, Rhona Jukes, Amanda Benson, Andrea Vibe, Piotr Orzechowski, Alan Diffata, April Wright, Haydee Scott, Jade Abducion, Alexandra Honadel, Chad Pearlman, Mia Slotve, Chelsea Martinez, Claydeen Adams, Kathleen McGraw, Daniela Echaiz, Kathy Weitzman, Michelle Tomlin, Cindy Lesinkski, Julie Nally, Mikhala Shumow, Ariel Matthews, Jonathan Waymire, Jonni Campos, Shani Donnelly, Wayne Larremore, Bree Cameron, Mary Mulligan King, Lorraine Perez Green, Trisha Miller, Laura Kirchhoff, Randy Billings, Tammy Austin Holguin, Lynn Schlossman, Lorrainne Killeen, Cindy Biehahn, Paul Jacques, Koren Young, Taylor Kellstrom, Alex Hafizi, Jason Gibbs and Scott Fushi.

For more information on ticketing and sponsorships for Wine on the Roof or Cocktails on the Roof set for 9/6/19, please contact Amy Daniels at WiSH@hartdistrict.org or go to www.wishscv.org

2019 Dates – and Some Surprises – for Wine on the Roof and Cocktails on the Roof

March 29, 2019 by evebushman

SCV’s Only Roof Top Events Offer Unique Atmosphere For Both Wine and Spirit Lovers to Dine with Wine and Dance with Cocktails!

SANTA CLARITA VALLEY – The WiSH Education Foundation is once again pleased to announce the dates for their wildly popular rooftop events held on the top of Macy’s parking structure at Westfield Valencia to benefit over 23,000 students in the Hart District: Wine on the Roof…Dine on the Roof will be held on May 16 and the 5^th annual Cocktails on the Roof on September 6. Tickets, sponsorship information, “raves”, past and current vendors can all be seen on the Cocktails on the Roof dedicated website: http://cocktailsontheroofscv.org/

What to Expect: In our inaugural 2018 event Wine on the Roof guests were treated to several courses paired with wines in a seated dinner. The venue was not made public prior to the event, and each dish came out with its own menu and pairing card. Chefs and winemakers took to the microphone during the evening to share their inspiration for their own creations. All restaurants brought staff members to the roof, all working seamlessly together. The models from Pinups for American Heroes, a local nonprofit, also served guests at the event in the spirit of the 1940s USO. Local favorite Lance Allyn provided live music.

Wine on the Roof participants, several in their debut, included: The Speakeasy Bakery, Bakers Scott Ervin and Todd Wilson, Newhall Press Room, Chef Trevor; The Old Town Junction, Chef Daniel Otto; Hundred Miles, Chef Louis Pechan; Olive Terrace Bar and Grill, Chef Lucio Teraza and Chef Alfonso Canuto; Bonefish Grill, Culinary Team; Sweet Beams Ice Cream Truck, Karin and Chris Beam; Nothing Bundt Cakes, Jennifer and Zachary Zeidler; Wolf Creek Restaurant, Pastry Chef Meghan Launier, 8. Salt Creek Grille, Pastry Chef Kristina Waggoner and Honu Coffee, Brew master James. Wineries: Byron Blatty Wines, winemakers Steve Lemley and Nate Hasper; Pulchella Winery, winemakers Steve Lemley and Nate Hasper; Hoi Polloi Winery, winemakers Ted Behlendorf, Doug Minnick, Dan Erland Andersen; Pagter Brothers, Scott Page-Pagter winemaker; Parhelion Cellars, winemaker Adam Hasper.

What to Expect: In our 5^th Cocktails on the Roof, Eve Bushman and a committee of amazing volunteers and WiSH board members promise to have a surprise or two up their collective sleeves. Our first year was brand new: DJ MAV from SOS Entertainment, guests voting for their favorite cocktails and a Flash Mob of prepared dancers doing “Thriller” for guests. In subsequent years, guests could sponsor private lounges with private service; finally last year we added in a table just for Pulchella Winery as a special nod to their invaluable work in Wine on the Roof. (Cocktails on the Roof focuses on highlighting the cocktail programs from our local restaurants, and several unique single spirit vendors.)

2018 participants included: JFC Int’l, Nealie’s Skillet, Marston’s Restaurant, Honu Coffee, Mammoth Mountain Coffee, Willow Creek Distillery, Indian Affair, Wolf Creek Brewery, Wolf Creek Restaurant, Salt Creek Grille, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Pomp & Whimsy Gin Liqueur, Sweet Beams Ice Cream, Mule 2.0, Lazy Dog Restaurant, SCV Custom Crush Services (Pulchella Winery), Newhall Press Room, LA Scotch Club, Alchemy, Dulce Vida Tequila, Hyatt Regency Valencia, Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ, Sweet T’s Treats, Impex Beverages, The Local Pub, Smokehouse on Main, Claim Jumper, solita, Figenza Mediterranean Fig Vodka and the Joy Squad Photo Experience.

Eve Bushman of Eve’s Wine 101 and Eve Bushman Consulting created these two events and co-hosts along with Amy Daniels, Executive Director of the Wish Education Foundation; Marlee Lauffer, the President of the Henry Newhall Memorial Hospital Foundation; and Alexander Hafizi; of Elite Magazine and the Santa Clarita Magazine. Steve Lemley, the co-owner of Pulchella Winery and SCV Custom Crush Services, is the co-host for Wine on the Roof, curating all of the wineries, working with the winemakers and pairing the menus with Bushman. Last but not least, Jennifer Chadwick, Director of Marketing for Salt Creek Grille; serves as the Wine on the Roof Lead Coordinator in the restaurant Prep Tent. Our tireless committee members also include: Judy Penman, Ed Masterson, Richard Cohn, Jennifer Ramos, Dawn Begley and Mitch Russell.

If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities for either or both of these exciting events, please reach out to Amy Daniels: Wish@HartDistrict.org

Past and Present Sponsors include: Westfield Valencia Town Center, The Magazine of Santa Clarita, Elite Magazine, Littler, California Credit Union, Oasis Associates, Brightview Tree Company, Andy Gump, Burrtec, 24/7 Events, SOS Entertainment, Peterson Printing, Jennifer Ramos Social Conduit, Eve Bushman Consulting, Image 2000, Craig and Lisa Eichman, Team House Real Estate and PinUps for Heroes.

Vintage Eve Circa 6/2015: California Pizza Kitchen – Reboot!

August 7, 2018 by evebushman

Kind of excited…the restaurant I grew up with, California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) has had a remodel…well…not exactly just a remodel.

Met by Susan Halstead, the General Manager of our local Valencia CPK, the first thing she told me was that people that now walk in the door don’t recognize that they’re in a CPK if they haven’t been to the Valencia location in the last two months.

Susan turned me over to Cole Brocato, bartender and trainer, who has been here at our local CPK for 9 years. Cole said that they were focusing more on California inspired fare and less on pizza alone. Fresh ingredients, like California fruits and vegetables, are now more emphasized.

Full Cocktail Program

In providing “unique spirited cocktails” we had to try the Blueberry Ginger Smash – refreshing, tangy, reminded me of a whiskey Buck plus fruit – and the California Roots – avocado colors the drink, while mint and agave sour takes center stage in this unique cocktail.

The California Crush reminded Cole of traditional Valencia flavors, and we enjoyed the citrus and mint flavors that made me think of a white wine Sangria – only better. Our teen had the Fresh Strawberry Mango Cooler – a nice virgin drink that was both sweet and light.

These cocktails are new at CPK Valencia and are only available in the remodeled stores. Cole said that eventually all of the restaurants will be re-done. And you can get all the classic cocktails, just like the BBQ chicken pizza, too.

The cocktail recipes, Cole said, are unique to CPK. Yes, they can make a Lemon Drop but they can also make a cocktail with Domaine de Canton Ginger liqueur or St. Germain Elderflower.

Cole said, “Local citrus in cocktails, California wines; we make it fresh, trendy, and organic when we can.”

Taste the Unique

With the new rollout, and as they have locations all over U.S., they “want visitors to be wowed on what California Pizza Kitchen is about.”

Don’t be concerned that the pizzas are now listed on a long “side bar” of the menu, your favorites, like BBQ Chicken, Thai Chicken, Hawaiian, etc., are still there. But you will also find, under “seasonally inspired” menu items, a Maine Lobster Flatbread (cool lobster, loved the dill, great with the California Roots cocktail) Roasted Garlic Chicken (super mist and flavorful) with Seasonal Vegetables, Ribeye (Another moist and “never frozen” with great marbling to give great flavor, liked the peppery spice and butter topped on this one, and Pinot Noir salt), California Fields Salad and Tricolore Salad Pizza.

Under “main plates” – this is the “middle section and where it’s really at” Cole said – the “Halibut is never farmed, always line caught, cooked on a cedar plank and that keeps it moist.” And it WAS! Delicious, great medley of spices, definitely would order again. And though we were stuffed, Ed couldn’t resist having one more bite before we wrapped up our leftovers.

Lunch Duos on the menu are geared to foodies that want quality and watch how much they are eating. Small Cravers fit that bill too, and have more a gastro pub like items. All the cheese, goat and cow, is pasteurized, Cole added. Originally guests had several menus, now it’s all in one plus a beverage menu, which is more standard.

“You’re a pizza place, why do you have this steak on the menu?” Cole says people sometimes ask and he tells them to go ahead, “have the steak”, and then they get it.

Final Touches

We sampled the seasonal-only-always-sells-out Strawberry Shortcake made with sweet biscuit, with a surprise touch of candied lemon zest glaze sprinkled over homemade whipped cream. The decadently rich Butter Cake is made with a sliver of cheesecake, warm and covered in ice cream and whipped cream; something Cole says people skip appetizers to save room for. The S’mores dessert is served with a jumbo graham, dark chocolate chunks, milk chocolate pudding and torched marshmallows – a sticky gooey all-consuming delightful mess.

Some of the restaurants build the bar around the kitchen as a showcase. We did enjoy sitting at the bar, it was definitely the center of the action.

All menus have different pizzas pictured on the cover, and according to Cole, the servers try to hand guests at the same table different ones – nice touch!

Cole added that they hire their staff based on them being the right person and not on having to have the two years of service experience. Our teen thought that was great.

Finally, when we glanced around the room completely sated and packed up leftovers we noticed both managers serving guests, people looking happy, and maybe some room for more.

Facebook album: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10205601315099626.1073741918.1455706632&type=1&l=89fce8e12e

CPK-Bridgeport Marketplace

24061 Newhall Ranch Road

Valencia, CA 91354

661-259-2082

www.cpk.com/locations/bridgeport-marketplace

For the complete menu, visit www.cpk.com/reimagined.

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years. She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a guest judge for the L.A. International Wine Competition. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits that may be answered in a future column. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

One August Night – With Limerick Lane – at Salt Creek Grille

July 23, 2018 by evebushman

Join us on Thursday, August 16, 2018 at 6:30 p.m. for

One August Night

A SPECIAL WINE EVENT

at Salt Creek Grille
24415 Town Center Drive, Valencia

Please join Jake Bilbro of Sonoma County’s Limerick Lane in a tasting of select wines from the winery’s collection.

Well-known wine critic Robert Parker says of Limerick, “If you haven’t caught onto the magic that is emerging from Limerick Lane, it’s about time. Impressive heights of quality.”

The event will also feature exclusive auction items available only that evening.

Hosted by: Carl & Terry Kanowsky

Hors d’oeuvres provided by: Salt Creek Grille

Benefiting the Boys and Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley

How Was Cocktails on the Roof 2017?

September 15, 2017 by evebushman

Whew! What a freaking blast we had this time around. I’m still exhausted, overwhelmed and yet can’t wait for the fourth event in 2018. Cutting to the chase, I’m talking about Cocktails on the Roof that benefits the WiSH Education Foundation, which, in turn, benefits all of the students in the Hart District.

Eve Bushman Consulting created the out-of-the-box event to showcase the bar programs of our local restaurants and bring in single spirit vendors. We added a rooftop venue, a DJ with a large dance area, private and public lounges, tons of food and mini martini glasses for sampling. NO ONE has tried to duplicate this event. We own it! And special thanks go to my co-hosts Exec. Dir. Amy Daniels – for ALL of the legwork – and Marlee Lauffer for spreading the word. Committee members that continue this out-of-the-box thinking every year include WiSH Board President Richard Cohn, WiSH VP Lynne Secrest along with Judy Penman, Ed Masterson, Dawn Begley, Mitch Russell and Rochelle Gallimore.

WiSH Education Foundation’s Exec. Dir. Amy Daniels and Me on the ROOF

One more thing we do, in case that’s not enough, we ask our guests to vote on their favorite cocktails of the night. We settle on the top three and this year’s winners are #1. Olive Terrace Bar and Grill. #2 Marstons Valencia and #3 Deep Eddy Vodka.

This year, besides having a larger event space, almost doubling our footprint, we had some new vendors joining our existing usual suspects. (No time to read? Watch the fun in this 3-minute slideshow.)

NEWS FROM THE WISH EDUCATION FOUNDATION: In a letter to our vendors Wish Exec. Dire. Amy Daniels wrote, “On behalf of Eve Bushman, Marlee Lauffer and the Board of Directors of the WiSH Education Foundation, I want to thank you for your generosity with your time and product to help make this year’s Cocktails on the Roof the best one yet! The response was incredible on social media and we do hope you had an amazing time on THE ROOF!

Because of you, WiSH raised over $45,000 in just three hours, allowing us to make a significant difference for school programs this year. For this academic year, our funding focus is STEAM with an emphasis on the ARTS, and we appreciate your involvement in helping us reach for higher goals. In fact, we raised over $11,000 more this year than last – and we hope to do the same again next year, with your help.”

Our Vendors

Deep Eddy Vodka, LA Scotch Club, JFC International soju-based cocktails, Speakeasy Bakery, Honu Coffee with Jameson Irish Whisky Coffee, solita Tacos and Margaritas, Sisley Italian Kitchen, Newhall Refinery, NEW: Bonefish Grill, NEW: An Indian Affair, Wolf Creek Restaurant and Brewery, Persia Restaurant and Lounge, Salt Creek Grille, Oaks Grill at TPC, NEW: Mammoth Coffee Roasting Company with a Coffee Martini, NEW: Vines Restaurant and Bar, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Olive Terrace Bar and Grill, NEW: Pomp and Whimsy Gin Liqueur, Lazy Dog, Sweet Beams Ice Cream, Marston’s, The Distillery at Opolo, Vina Sympatica sparkling wine and NEW: Scoob’s Original Frozen premium cookies.

Just Some of the 2017 Raves

Michael – Such a great evening for a wonderful cause, made better by meeting up with old friends!

Leslie – Had a blast last night at Cocktails on the Roof benefiting the Wish Education Foundation with my guy and gals.

Nicole – Amy Daniels, Successful, fun event! Congrats!

Karen – Eve Hammond Bushman! You have done it again! Better than ever.

Lisa – Had a blast at Cocktails on the Roof with all (my) fabulous friends! #cotr17

Steve – After a lousy day, good food and fine spirits help a lot…especially when it is for a great cause. Thank you Eve Bushman.

Dana – Best time at Cocktails on the Roof in Santa Clarita fundraiser for the Wish Foundation.

Patti – Tons of fun at Cocktails on the Roof 2017! Great job Amy Daniels and Eve Bushman! A job well done!

Vicki – Having a blast for a wonderful organization.

Heather – Date nights are great nights…eat, drink, and dance for a great cause! Fun event Eve!

Pam –Had a great time at Cocktails on the Roof! Congrats Amy Daniels, Eve Bushman and Marlee Lauffer for another outstanding event benefiting the Wish Education Foundation!

Karen – This year’s event was my first event. The event was fantastic!

Cheryl – There were so many wonderful people there…

Lauren – A fun evening indeed!

Tiffany – Had so much fun. Was great seeing everyone.

Nick – We had an amazing time at Cocktails on the Roof 2017 last night benefiting WISH Education Foundation!

Robin – It was really fun, and the food was amazing!

Terry (We had) a blast with the Mirror Booth…!

Hilary – Next year I’m SOOOOOOO going.

Steve S. – Another Cocktails on the Roof in the bag! So much fun and generous people!

Sponsors

Patrice Rifkind with Audiology Associates, Nick Rose Insurance Agency, Inc., Littler Mendelson, Julie M. Sturgeon CPA, Peterson Printing, Chiquita Canyon, Steven B. Chegwin CPA, the Magazine of Santa Clarita, SCV elite Magazine, Randy Plaice and Associates, Jeff and Melanie Meyer with Thrivent Financial, Westfield Valencia, EveBushmanConsulting.com, Eve’s Wine 101, Lundgren Mgt., Enchanted Kids, Oasis Associates, Craig and Lisa Eichman, Sol Print Solutions, Mitchpickswine/Mitch and Leslie Russell, SOS Entertainment, 24/7 Events, Andy Gump, Burrtec, California Credit Company, Brightview Tree Company, The Signal, All Business Matters, The Watters Group, KHTS and SCVTV. Special thanks to Genesis Moss, Print & Web Design (www.genesismoss.com), for creating our brand new dedicated website, www.cocktailsontheroofscv.org.

Volunteers to Thank

Noah Daniels, Amy Daniels, Doug Penman, Carolyn Lodes, Diane McGrory, Mary Bradway, Leonard Leto, Robin Wimsatt, Ellen Hawthorne, Lee Lodes, Vicki White, Barbara Meyer, Adele MacPherson, Vicki Tungate, Cheryl Gray, Judy Penman, Nicole Stinson, Sue Hayward, Danise Davis, Terry Gallimore, JoAnn Manzo, Al Hayward, Verna Velasquez, Marissa Velasquez, Jennifer Goins, Sue Cacic, Debbie Walker, Dave Cacic, Justin Neely + two, Pat Willett, Niki Feast Williams, John Rogers and Holly Bellamy.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

What’s new on THE ROOF?

July 14, 2017 by evebushman

Well, we can certainly tell from the social media BUZZ around town that you are VERY excited about the upcoming Cocktails on the Roof on August 25, 2017. Come join your hosts Eve Bushman of Eve Bushman Consulting, Marlee Lauffer, President of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation and Amy Daniels, Executive Director of the WiSH Education Foundation at our NEW Pre-Party on August 17^th from 5-9pm at The Oaks Grill in TPC. Gear up for #COTR17 with NO COVER, happy hour pricing all evening long, bartender lessons and our #COTR17 DJ MAV and dancing. With the best sunset viewing from their amazing patio, the Oaks Grill is also donating 15% of their proceeds back to the WiSH Education Foundation.

On THE ROOF, what you will recognize from previous years is the amazing venue atop the Macy’s parking garage at Westfield Valencia Town Center and the wonderful all-you-can-partake-in signature cocktails and food, DJ MAV for the third year and dancing and cool, modern lounges and lighting.

What will be new this year is that everyone’s a VIP! Rather than have two levels of tickets, we invite everyone up on THE ROOF from 8-11pm, while our sponsors will be greeted at 7:30pm. General Admission tickets are only $85 and Designated Driver tickets are $65 (by bracelet). Tickets at the door, if still available, are $95.

NEW: WiSH you could be a sponsor and get first dibs??? This year you CAN – we are offering a limited number of private 10’X10’ lounges that seat up to 8-10, allowing you and your friends – or your company – a spot to gather on your own for the party! The cost of the lounge, which includes all marketing, private entry and signage, is only $1,000! Get yours before they run out by contacting Executive Director Amy Daniels at WiSH@hartdistrict.org.

NEW: SoCalMagicMirror.com is joining us, “An Entertainment company specializing in providing the latest in entertainment venues for parties, weddings, business openings and more! More than just a standard ‘photo booth’, SoCal Magic Mirror provides a full length mirror to take your picture at the event, allowing a head-to-ankle capture instead of the standard waist-up shot. You can also write on the screen, choose from hundred of emojis, and personalize your pictures in ways other booths only dream of.”

In addition, our layout will be slightly larger to allow for the fun to reach all corners of the event so no matter where you are, the fun will follow. Don’t forget to have that picture taken at our Step and Repeat as you enter, sponsored by The Magazine of Santa Clarita and Elite Magazine. Tickets are live AND limited – don’t be left off THE ROOF – get yours right now at www.WiSHscv.org.

As of July 12, participants on THE ROOF this year include Deep Eddy Vodka, LA Scotch Club, JFC International sake-based cocktails, Speakeasy Bakery (check social media for hints to get the good stuff here), Honu Coffee, solita Tacos and Margaritas, Sisley Italian Kitchen, Newhall Refinery, NEW: Bonefish Grill, NEW: An Indian Affair, Wolf Creek Restaurant and Brewery, Persia Restaurant and Lounge, Salt Creek Grille, Oaks Grill at TPC, NEW: Mammoth Coffee Roasting Company with a Coffee Martini, NEW: Vines Restaurant and Bar, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Olive Terrace Bar and Grill, NEW: Pomp and Whimsy Gin Liqueur, Lazy Dog, Sweet Beams Ice Cream, Marston’s, NEW: CPB Winery with a wine-based cocktail, The Distillery at Opolo and Vina Sympatica sparkling wine.

Our wonderful and generous sponsors are lining up to again be a part of the fun while giving back to our local students. WiSH greatly appreciates Westfield Valencia Town Center, The Magazine of Santa Clarita and Elite Magazine, The Signal, Brightview Tree Company, Nick Rose Insurance, Lundgren Management, California Credit Union, Andy Gump, Oasis Associates, SolPrint Solutions, Craig and Lisa Eichman, Jeff and Melanie Meyer, Eve’s Wine 101, Peterson Printing and Graphics, Littler Mendelson, Randy Plaice and Associates and the Watters Group. We would also like to thank SOS Entertainment, 24/7 Events, Burrtec, MitchPicksWine.com, Enchanted Kids, KHTS, SCVTV. Want to join us as a sponsor of COTR17? Email us at WiSH@hartdistrict.org.

Finally, keep up to date by checking out the WiSH Education Foundation, Pre-party and COTR FB event pages, WiSH site www.WiSHscv.org, and – thanks to web designer Genesis Moss – our brand new dedicated COTR website, http://cocktailsontheroofscv.org/

Cocktails On The Roof PRE-PARTY Announcement!

July 7, 2017 by evebushman

The Location of This Year’s #CocktailsOnTheRoof Pre-Party will be at The Oaks Grille Inside TPC Valencia!

SANTA CLARITA VALLEY – On August 17 The Oaks Grille at TPC Valencia is welcoming guests for a mini Cocktails on the Roof Pre Party – with many of the same attractions that will be at the main event on August 25.

From 5pm until 10pm guests can enjoy a no-cover charge event, happy hour prices, bartender lessons, the same “DJ MAV” from the main event, dancing under the stars and the uncontested best view of the Santa Clarita Valley! A percentage of the evening’s sales will be donated to the WiSH Education Foundation, a local non-profit that serves local public education in the Hart School District.

Troy Hooper, General Manager at TPC Valencia; Eve Bushman of Eve’s Wine 101 and Eve Bushman Consulting; Marlee Lauffer, President of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation; WiSH Executive Director Amy Daniels as well as the Cocktails on the Roof Committee and the entire Wish Board host the evening. (Look for them enjoying the party but also there to answer questions about the main event – and sell tickets!)

“So thrilled that Troy agreed to hear my lengthy pitch to host our pre-party fundraiser, giving us everything on our ‘WiSH list’” began Eve Bushman “We can’t wait to welcome guests to one of the best restaurants in the Santa Clarita Valley. And of course The Oaks Grille will have a table at our main event, Cocktails on The Roof.”

“TPC Valencia is proud to be a part of such a great event for an important cause like the WiSH Education Foundation. We are excited to invite the community to this Pre Party and hope it creates even more awareness for the cause.” Troy Hooper said. Marlee Lauffer added, “It’s fitting we hold this year’s pre-party at TPC Valencia/Oaks Grille as they have been part of the event’s success from the beginning. COTR is all about showcasing our local businesses, having fun and, most importantly, supporting our schools. We appreciate all of WiSH’s donors and we look forward to promoting ticket sales and awareness at this fun sneak peek event!”

This year marks the third year of the Cocktails on the Roof event, and the fourth year of fundraising collaborations between Eve Bushman, Marlee Lauffer and the Wish Education Foundation – representing thousands of dollars raised for our local student programs.

To learn more about the WiSh Education Foundation: www.WiSHscv.org

To see what’s “happening on the roof” and purchase tickets check out: www.cocktailsontheroofscv.org

Perlis Picks: The Oaks Grille at TPC Valencia

May 13, 2017 by Michael Perlis

For as long as I can remember, the Santa Clarita Valley has been referred to as “chain restaurant hell” [okay, maybe that was me saying that]. With the independent restaurants that have opened in our valley in the last several years, it is getting harder and harder to make that joke.

And now, having somehow gotten myself and Karen invited to the “influencers” preview at the NEW Oaks Grille Restaurant at TPC Valencia [it helps having Eve Bushman as my boss], I can safely say that the SCV has moved to the restaurant “heaven” category.

Before getting into the details of what we tried that evening, let me share with you some information that was provided to us by Troy Hooper, Director of Operations of Tournament Players Club Valencia…

The Oaks Grille (along with the Banquet venues and special events) is open to the public – so come one and come all!

The menu is “seasonally refreshed.” Produce comes from regionally local growers and proteins are “Farm to Fork” – they know at all times where their meats and fishes come from.

Products are certified sustainably sourced. Executive Chef Peyton Poulsen is a winner of SCV Ultimate Chef and the wine list has been put together by a Sommelier with 25 years of experience.

Now, onto the menu for the evening, where we got to sample a small selection of what you have in store when you visit the Oaks Grille…

Starters

Salmon Poke – house cured salmon tossed with tomatoes, cilantro, onion and jalapeno, finished with Hawaiian chili pepper water, toasted macadamia nuts and red sea salt.

House Bacon – thick cut house made bacon, beer battered and flash fried, served with pancake fritters and drizzled with a blackberry gastrique and Vermont maple syrup.

Salads

“Garden” Salad – mizuna, blue cheese crème, shaved candy cane beets and pomegranate seeds, tossed in a hazelnut vanilla vinaigrette and garnished with edible flowers.

Smoked Ahi Salad – cold smoked ahi with tatsoi, pickled mushrooms, cucumber and roasted macadamia nuts, toasted in a lilikoi vinaigrette with a hard-cooked egg.

Entrees

Vegetable Sacchetti – truffle and cheese filled pasta purses with mushrooms, onion, sun dried tomatoes and arugula, tossed in a white wine butter reduction.

Glacier 51 Sea Bass – pan seared over an orange cardamom quinoa with marinated golden raisins, candied pecans, splashed with a passion fruit reduction and micro basil.

Ora King Salmon – pan seared over farro, baby squash, finished with a peach and chilie chutney.

Colorado Rack of Lamb – harissa marinated lamb flame grilled, over babaganoush with spiced garbanzo beans and lentils finished with a cool cucumber relish.

All of the above were delicious, but I do have some notes on a few that really stood out for me…

House Bacon – OMG, OMG, OMG. I could have stopped with this. Fortunately, Karen doesn’t eat bacon, so I got hers. And then Eve was wandering around with a plate of these and Karen took another one…for me! OMG.

Smoked Ahi Salad – loved the smokiness of the ahi. From Karen: The smoke enhanced/complemented the fish. The nuance was subtle but distinct.

Vegetable Sacchetti – almost didn’t try this because, you know, vegetable. That would have been dumb. Amazingly rich and delicious.

Glacier 51 Sea Bass

Glacier 51 Sea Bass – another one that I almost skipped. Karen loves sea bass; me usually not that much. This was cooked perfectly. From Karen: I congratulated the chefs on having the fish just right – medium to medium rare.

Colorado Rack of Lamb – of course I’d love this one.

Everyone this evening seemed to agree that the entire evening’s menu was perfect. And again, this is only a sample of a much larger new menu at the Oaks Grille that looks like it will please everybody, from starters to desserts. [I’m personally especially looking forward to trying the Berkshire Pork Porterhouse and the Durham Ranch Bison Rib Eye.]

Along with the new wine list, the Oaks Grille offers a great selection of specialty cocktails, including The Daily, which as the name implies is created new each day by the TPC Valencia bartenders.

I’d be remiss to not give a shout out to our servers that evening. You can tell when people are well trained and care about providing great service. Thank you to them and to Troy for hosting us. We can’t wait to go back.

Check out Eve’s slideshow of the event here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVIngqlZRAo&feature=share

Michael Perlis has been pursuing his passion for wine for more than 25 years. He has had the good fortune of having numerous mentors to show him the way, as well as a wonderful wife who encourages him and shares his interest. After a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting wineries and vineyards, and tasting as much wine as he possibly could, he had the amazing luck to meet Eve Bushman. Now, as Contributing Editor for Eve’s Wine 101, he does his best to bring as much information as possible about wine to Eve’s Wine 101 faithful readers. Michael is also Vice President of Eve Bushman Consulting (fka Eve’s Wine 101 Consulting) http://evebushmanconsulting.com/ and President of MCP Financial. Michael can be contacted at michaelthezinfan@aol.com or michael@evebushmanconsulting.com.

Perlis Picks: The Blaq Square

April 15, 2017 by Michael Perlis

So is it worse to be forgetful or ignorant?

When I knew I was going to be meeting with Brad Slaughter, General Manager and part owner of The Blaq Square, the first question I wanted to ask him was the origin of the name of the restaurant.

[The second question was going to be if he was related to pro wrestler Sgt. Slaughter, but that would have been just silly, right?]

But, I forgot to ask. So, I emailed Brad right after our interview asking him to explain the name, and he immediately responded:

Photo from Facebook

“The name is inspired by the famous painting called “The Black Square” by Kazimir Malevich. It’s very unique, eclectic, rustic and inspires thought. That’s exactly what we wanted for our restaurant. The spelling Blaq is to give a chic name to match our brand and creativity.”

Well, dear reader, I hope you are a little better versed in art than I am. In retrospect, yes, I had heard of the painting [I’m gonna stick with that], but that’s about it. Some internet research led to some fascinating stuff, but I will leave that to you to do on your own. This article is supposed to be about The Blaq Square restaurant.

But, the name does make sense in the context in which Brad explained it. The restaurant, Brad said, is a fusion gastropub, but the fusion is not of cuisines, but “of preferences.” While the menu is 50% vegan, and there are many gluten-free choices, there are also lots of items that would satisfy a carnivore such as myself.

When Karen and I ate there the first time, I ordered The Sober Irishman sandwich, described as Corned Beef, Beer Mustard, Whiskey Onions, Red Cabbage and Carrot Pepper Slaw on a Brioche Bun. While these days I am trying to really only eat half portions, gosh darn if I couldn’t help myself with this sandwich. So good.

The selection of burgers and other items look just as enticing. [Speaking of burgers, Brad heavily suggests trying a burger made from Beyond Meat plant protein. While I admit the idea initially held little appeal, Brad’s description makes me want to give it a shot.] The rest of the menu is a selection of small bites and sandwiches, in keeping with the gastropub motif, along with several different pizzas made in the pizza oven that the predecessor occupant of the premises left behind.

The availability of the pizza oven was a major influence on Brad and his partners’ [including Owner/Partner/Executive Chef Nate Malonson] ability to effect the transition from the previous tenant to The Blaq Square in what has to be record time. Even then, getting things ready in only three weeks for their opening on December 8^th last year seems pretty amazing, given all the work that was done to the interior of the restaurant. Brad said that they have really focused on a philosophy of doing things to “provoke thought” and “increase creativity”. This attitude shows not only with the interior of The Blaq Square and the food items but also carries over into the drink selection, both alcohol and non. Having high quality choices, sourced organic and locally whenever possible [they even grow they own herbs] and with input from what customers are asking for, with an assortment of shakes, juices and teas, along with lots of craft beers, many of them local. And the wines…local favorites including Pulchella and Reyes highlight the list, along with some standouts from Paso Robles and beyond are sure to appeal to a wide range of wine lovers.

Brad says the community has really embraced The Blaq Square, which is great to hear. Online comments bear this out. It’s good to see a place like this in the Santa Clarita Valley, to join the small but growing group of independently owned restaurants – definitely worth checking out.

The Blaq Square

23460 Cinema Dr Suite A

Valencia, CA 91355