America’s Family Pet Expo 2013

Posted on May 21, 2013 by Rachael

I will never tire of this pic (Family Pet Expo 2011)

There are truly no words to describe the amount of cuteness experienced at America’s Family Pet Expo. Year after year, the Family Pet Expo takes over the Orange County Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa and brings the citizens of Southern California in touch with rescue groups, breed specific clubs and organizations, retailers and innovators of pet products, pageants, competitions, demos and entertainment. Every year, my friend Annie and I plan an entire day to the Family Pet Expo and over the years, as our four-legged children have grown (substantially in her case, as she has one medium-large dog and one large dog), we’ve hit the jackpot in free samples and deeply discounted goods.

This year, I was fortunate enough to have been given 100 tickets through The Place Magazine, and between the giveaway held on my blog, my Twitter giveaway, and just randomly handing out tickets to strangers at the ticket gate on the day I attended, I was able to giveaway each and every ticket. I think only 15 of them were reserved for my own friends and I. It was an extreme honor to connect people with the Family Pet Expo. Many happy tails begin through the adoptions made at the Family Pet Expo.

Now, without further ado, here are just a small sampling of the animals I cuddled at the 2013 America’s Family Pet Expo:

Christmas – Swiss Shepherd

Old German Owl

Ink Spot the Great Dane

Monitor Lizard

Ginger representing Grey Save Greyhound Rescue

Fun Fact: Greyhounds are not hyperactive! Greyhounds are total couch-potato pups. Learn More Here!

Snake in a Tank (Python?)

Heartly needs a home – Contact Noah’s Bark

Weenie Dog Races

Miss Kitty Cat – Adoptable from The Coonhound Rescue

Racing Homer Pigeon

Alaskan Klee Kai

Splash Dogs!

SPLASH!

Being a doggy is so rough!

Boston Terrier

I hope to see you at America’s Family Pet Expo 2014!

For More Info: http://petexpooc.org

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Sneak Peek: Eat See Hear

Posted on May 18, 2013 by Rachael

Do not waste your time indoors, Southern California. This summer is chock full of opportunities to grab hold of our warm evenings and make a commitment to be as outdoorsy as possible. Showtime, Trailhead Marketing Inc. & Hollywood Outdoor Movies takes advantage of our glorious southern California weather with a series of events that’s 1/3rd cinematic reveling, 1/3rd concert in the park, and 1/3rd food fest with
EAT | SEE | HEAR.

Eat See Hear is LA’s premier outdoor movie, food truck and live music series that brings an evening of fun to Los Angeles-area venues each summer. The Second Annual series features up and coming bands from the local music scene, the hottest food trucks and the only 3-story high, 52-foot wide inflatable movie screen west of the Mississippi with the highest quality HDprojection and digital surround sound, the Eat|See|Hear series promises an enjoyable movie-going experience!

SCHEDULE OF FILMS:

May 25: THE PRINCESS BRIDE – Santa Monica High School (Baseball Field) 601 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, 90405

June 1: CLUELESS – Paul Revere Middle School 1450 Allenford Ave, Brentwood, 90049

June 8: FERRIS BUELLER’S DAY OFF – Centennial Square at Pasadena City Hall 100 North Garfield Ave, Pasadena 91101

June 15: FIGHT CLUB – Los Angeles State Historic Park 1245 N. Spring Street, Los Angeles, 90012

June 22: SAY ANYTHING – Santa Monica High School (Memorial Greek Theater) 601 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, 90405

June 29: RISKY BUSINESS – DRIVE-IN! Los Angeles Trade Tech College 400 West Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, 90015

July 6: STRIPES – Los Angeles State Historic Park 1245 N. Spring Street, Los Angeles, 90012

July 13: ELF – Paul Revere Middle School 1450 Allenford Ave, Brentwood, 90049

July 20: COMING TO AMERICA – Santa Monica High School (Memorial Greek Theater) 601 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, 90405

July 27: ALMOST FAMOUS – DRIVE-IN! Los Angeles Trade Tech College 400 West Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, 90015

August 3: DONNIE DARKO – Santa Monica High School (Baseball Field) 601 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, 90405

August 10: KINGPIN – Paul Revere Middle School 1450 Allenford Ave, Brentwood, 90049

August 17: BIG – La Cienega Park 325 S. La Cienega Blvd, Beverly Hills, 90211

August 24: THE WARRIORS – DRIVE-IN! Los Angeles Trade Tech College 400 West Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, 90015

August 31: PULP FICTION – Los Angeles State Historic Park 1245 N. Spring Street, Los Angeles, 90012

September 7: BACK TO SCHOOL – Santa Monica High School (Memorial Greek Theater) 601 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, 90405

September 14: BREAKFAST CLUB – Los Angeles State Historic Park 1245 N. Spring Street, Los Angeles, 90012

Typical Event Schedule:
• 5:30 p.m. – Doors open
• 7:00 p.m. – Band performs
• 8:30 p.m. – Movie begins
• 10:00-11:00 p.m. – Event concludes (depending on length of movie)

BONUS: Coolhaus will be the official dessert partner for Eat|See|Hear 2013, featuring an exclusive custom ice cream flavor: butterscotch and bourbon ice cream with a peanut butter crunch cookie, available all summer long at Coolhaus Culver City and on the Coolhaus trucks. Brasil Kiss Mobile Coffee Bar will be serving “love in a cup” every Saturday night.

TICKETS: Price range $10 for general admission – $15 for drive-in – $20 for reserved “fashionably late” (limited) seating Tickets available online A limited amount of passes will also be available for $12 at the door (cash or credit card).

PARKING: Parking will vary from venue to venue so guests are encouraged to check the event website for specific parking info prior to each event.

MORE INFO: Eat | See | Hear website – Facebook – Twitter

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The Failte Hotel Bar (Killarney)

Posted on May 16, 2013 by Rachael

Steffie and I were all set to go on a Ring of Kerry tour, which we booked through Bus Éireann at Parnell Station. However, on the Sunday we were to go – two days before our departure from Ireland – we learned that our tour had been cancelled due to not meeting the minimum requirement of attendees. Faced with the prospect of wasting one of our precious few last days, we decided to be adventurous and do as the clerk suggested: transfer the fare we paid to a new ticket and go explore downtown Killarney on our own. The Killarney National Park was not but one kilometer from the drop-off area, so we had the entire day to explore its expansive grounds. As I’ve learned now, this stop is often skipped or grossly squished into an official Ring of Kerry Tour, so in hindsight, I am extraordinarily pleased it turned out this way.

One day (when I’ve returned to Killarney National Park to take proper pictures) I’ll post about the Park itself, but here are some highlights in the meantime:

Ross Tower Castle

Ah, yes. Ross Castle. It was exceedingly windy when Steffie and I walked through the Park and made it to this late 15th century landmark. We didn’t take an official tour, but we enjoyed playing around outside and seeing the historical documents and models of what Ross Tower was like back in its heyday. We were in mutual agreement over our love for the ever so fashionable murdering hole.

After our day at the Park, Steffie and I walked back through town, where time straddled that awkward limbo between lunch and dinner. Our last bus did not depart until around 7′clock, so after killing some time in gift shops and browsing the menus posted outside the hotels, pubs, bars and restaurants that weren’t closed due to it being a Sunday, we finally settled on The Failte Hotel Bar.

Owned and operated by the O’Callaghan family, The Fáilte Hotel is a bar, restaurant and hotel all in one. Their popularity was evident as soon as Steffie and I stepped inside; boisterous cheering and jeering from regulars and tourists alike filled the bar as The World Cup played on a couple of television screens.

After a long day of walking and nature, Steffie and I indulged in some libation – Bulmers for her, Jameson & Ginger for myself.

Finches Dry Ginger Ale

Finches ain’t playing around; when they say dry, they mean it. This isn’t your sugary Canada Dry stuff. Impeccibly crisp, this mixer makes for

Oysters on the Half Shell

Oyster obsessed that I am, I could not resist another chance at devouring Irish oysters. As you can see, though, these poor little mollusks were horribly butchered and mangled by someone at Failte Hotel Bar who does not know how to properly shuck an oyster. Mercifully, I put them out of their humiliation and devoured them quickly.

Fish and Chips
mushy peas

Steffie’s last fish and chip meal of our visit. Just look at that behemoth of golden crispy deliciousness. Really gorgeous piece of fish; flakey, moist and flavorful with only a squeeze of lemon needed for that extra boost of flavor. The chips (not pictures) were equally praiseworthy, and Steffie preferred these simplified peas to the minted peas she came across at other eateries.

Guinness Casserole
beef, onions, carrots & side of potatoes

I don’t know about you, but that does not look the least bit like a casserole to me. Fáilte, I do not think that word means what you think it means. I was imagining, well, something not quite so reminiscent of stew. Oh, well. I played along and ate it up anyway, seeing as it was a blustery, manic weather sort of day, the likes of which I’ve only ever experienced in Ireland. The beef was tender, not dry or chewy in the least. I thought some fresh mushrooms would have been a nice addition, but again, still good. I’m unsure if this was the same portion they gave to everyone, or if by virtue of hearing my American voice, they assumed I would expect a comically large portion. Either way, despite my enjoyment of this dish, I was definitely unable to finish.

Sticky Toffee Pudding
sherry treacle

Our first encounter with Sticky Toffee Pudding brought our meal to a richly decadent and thoroughly satisfied finish. Neither of us cared for the sauce on the side, going for the sherry treacle, which added an appreciative zing to the otherwise dense but oh so delicious pudding.

As this meal was three years ago, I am sure many menu changes have happened at Failte Hotel Bar. Neither the pudding nor the casserole appear on the online restaurant or bar menus. Still, it was a hearty end to another jammed-packed day in Ireland, fill us up with good eats and good memories.

The Fáilte Hotel Bar & Restaurant
College Street, Killarney
Co. Kerry, Ireland
Telephone: 064 6633404
www.failtekillarney.com

On the road back from Killarney

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25th Annual Vintage Bouquet Food and Wine Event

Posted on May 14, 2013 by Rachael

I’ll be honest; I was a touch worried this year’s Vintage Bouquet Food and Wine Event would not hold up to last year’s glory. Spoilers: I was wrong.

Let’s just take a moment to recap what this event is all about, though, shall we?

The Barristers of the Beverly Hills Bar Association and the Beverly Hills Bar Foundation established the Vintage Bouquet Food and Wine Event in 1988 to raise funds for various causes including, but not limited to, Wills For Heroes (a free program to provide wills to firefighters, police and first responders), free programs for victims of domestic violence, The High School Blue Car Project, which educates high school students about the law.

Over the years, the Foundation has enhanced the community by funding a number of nationally recognized and emulated legal literacy and preventive law programs as well as community service projects including, but not limited to:
- Free Wills for Fire Fighters and Emergency Responders
- Free Monthly Legal Clinics
- Free programs for victims of domestic violence
- Free one-day seminars to help individuals understand their legal rights
- Free programs to elementary students about tolerance and diversity
- Free programs to high school students about the law
The Foundation is also proud of its long-standing support and association with Public Counsel, conceived and founded by the Beverly Hills Bar Association more than 30 years ago and now the nation’s largest pro bono law firm. The Foundation, the Association, and Public Counsel share a deep commitment to helping others through volunteer service, a cornerstone of the Foundation’s tradition of excellence.

OK, back to me now; back to the food. Still with me? Groovy. Naturally, I can’t share all of my pictures, but here is a grand selection from the 25th Annual Vintage Bouquet Food and Wine Event:

Lawry's Steak Sandwich - 25th Annual Vintage Bouquet Food and Wine Event

Steak Sandwich jus and horseradish sauce & creamed corn
Lawry’s Prime Rib Restaurant & Steakhouse
My Thoughts: Damn it, it just isn’t the Vintage Bouquet until I beeline over to the Lawry’s booth and sear a bundle of nerves with that butt-kick horseradish sauce. I don’t care that this could be the identical photograph to the one I snapped last year; that meat and that insanely good creamed corn deserves respect.

Salmon Cheviche - Lazy Ox Canteen - 25th Annual Vintage Bouquet Food and Wine Event

Salmon Ceviche on squid ink brioche with horseradish aioli
Lazy Ox Canteen

My Thoughts: Black colored food still messes with my brain. I have a bit of trouble finding squid ink tinted food appetizing, but this is my second run-in with the fad, so I saved face for the sake of the otherwise mouth-watering looking bite. It was easily the best salmon of the day; well marinated with the adequate contrast of textures. The speared grape tomatoes were a fresh touch, and the brioche with the horseradish aioli was actually well paired.

St. Germain

The St~Germain Cocktail

My Thoughts: Spotting St~Germain was a delightful surprise, though it came as no shock that this was my favorite drink of the entire event. Cool, crisp and refreshing, St~Germain Cocktail really hit the spot. Had I not been honor-bound by my bloggerly duties to explore a variety of beverages, I would have stuck with this cocktail for the rest of the day.

Chicken Salad Sandwich
The Palm Restaurant

My Thoughts: Giving the scorching temperature, I passed on the beef sandwich in favor of the lighter chicken salad sandwich. I was pleasantly surprised with this very unassuming little bite; chunks of veggies, almonds tender and tender chicken. Simple, but effective when made with capable hands.

Stuffed Mushrooms spinach, cream cheese, pine nuts, bacon
Planet Dailies

My Thoughts: I could not tell you what I detected in this stuffed mushroom, other than pure deliciousness. I don’t even recall what the sauce was because I was too busy making a balancing act out of carrying three or four of these off to my “party” (confession: I had one guest) and trying not to devour them while en route.

DRY Soda - 25th Annual Vintage Bouquet Food and Wine Event

DRY Soda

My Thoughts: I was very excited that DRY Soda would be present at the Vintage Bouquet Food and Wine Event. Back at Christmas, I purchased the Juniper soda for my aunt’s stocking, while my brother received cucumber and rhubarb. I past on lavender, cucumber and blood orange, and sampled the rest. Rhubarb was too herby for my liking, vanilla bean delivered exactly what it promises, juniper was intense and gave me visions of a European woodland, while the lime distinctly stood out as zippy, refreshing and unsurprisingly my favorite. The sugars are half what one would find in traditional soda, and the DRY rep encouraged food pairings and cocktail mixing with each flavor.

Tuna Tartare - Fleming's - 25th Annual Vintage Bouquet Food and Wine Event

Tuna Tartar
Fleming’s Steakhouse

My Thoughts: This was one out of four samplings Fleming’s Steakhouse offered at the event, the others being a rich hand-rolled chocolate truffle, their signature steak, and risotto. While these were all equally tasty, it was the tuna tartar that leapt out and took center stage. Everyone was raving about it. It was so simple, yet packed so many expertly constructed layers of flavor that it blew all other tuna tastings out of the proverbial water. Considering there were roughly seven other vendors offering tuna, this says something.

Garlic Noodles - An Catering - 25th Annual Vintage Bouquet Food and Wine Event

Garlic Noodles
An Catering

My Thoughts: The first booth as guests walked into the main area was led by An Catering. They set the bar very high with their crowd pleasing garlic noodles, cleverly served in these iconic Chinese take-away boxes. I had to resist trying more, as that would have filled me up a bit prematurely.

25th Annual Vintage Bouquet Food and Wine Event

2007 Arcturus
Astrale e Terra

My Thoughts: The first wine of the day had me shying away from the rosé and going for the Bordeaux style blend, which can include Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and sometimes Syrah from the Estate Vineyard in the mountains of the Atlas Peak Appellation. The wine was smooth, though I regret not going back for the rosé as it came highly recommended from wine connoisseur and Chairperson of the Los Angeles chapter of the American Wine Society, Jennifer Hill.

Paella
Bow and Truss

My Thoughts: As I have only ever had bites of this signature Valencian dish, I cannot comment on what makes paella good or authentic. What I can comment on, however, is that this spoonful of paella with its dainty bay scallop and well seasoned rice, had me going back for seconds. Possibly thirds.

Screwdriver Mini Cupcake
Wasted Cupcakes

Lemon Drop Mini Cupcake
Wasted Cupcakes

My Thoughts: A good idea, but either not executed to the best of their abilities or a victim of the scorching heat as the sugar was gritty and overbearing, rendering these bites totally unpalatable. My personal feelings of Wasted Cupcakes’ distasteful use of the word “Car Bomb” to describe their Guinness infused cupcake ensures I cannot in good conscious give them my business. Making light of and capitalizing on the horrific and violent strife between Ireland and the UK doesn’t sit well with me. To every bar/restaurant utilizing this revolting name, please consider renaming your drink/dish/cupcake/whatever to “Irish Orgasm”. It’s positive, chuckle-worthy and doesn’t undermine the death and destruction caused by car bombs.

Braised Pear with prosciutto & Peperomata with goat cheese
Napa Valley Grille

My Thoughts: As I approached Napa Valley Grille with open arms and a smile of recognition on my face, I was greeted by the same team from 2012. I had Chef Taylor Boudreaux himself write down the components of these morsels, as I was far too busy noshing. Sumptuous, elegant and never disappointing.

Broken Shed Premium Vodka

Lychee Cocktail

My Thoughts: Broken Shed Premium Vodka is made from whey and distilled, crafted and bottled in New Zealand. The Lychee Cocktail concocted above was very nice, but a little lacking in creativity. It employed the use of canned lychee with its syrup from the tin. I understand wanting to let the vodka shine, but a touch more imagination would have been welcomed.

Bedford and Burns - 25th Annual Vintage Bouquet Food and Wine Event

Spicy Yellow Fin Tuna Tartar
Bedford and Burns

Shrimp Ceviche with serrano and avocado
Bedford and Burns

My Thoughts: Another knock-out tuna tartar – this time with the added bonus of seaweed! However, it was the shrimp ceviche – oh, that juicy, crunchy, citrusy, spicy, incredibly fresh shrimp ceviche that wins my personal favor as the best sampling of the day. Even the added touch of a fresh scoop of avocado adds to the reasons why I went back a third and fourth time. I’m not even that big of a ceviche fan, but Bedford and Burns has made me a believer (as well as a total glutton). I’m not joking when I confess that I already have a grocery list written up to acquire the ingredients in the hopes of replicating this exquisite summer dish. I raise my glass to you, Bedford and Burns.

Country Pate - Wood & Vine - 25th Annual Vintage Bouquet Food and Wine Event

Country Pâté
Wood and Vine

My Thoughts: The pickle didn’t really do it for me, as I thought it soured out the natural flavors of the pâté. Still, I love Wood and Vine; they won me over with their samplings at last year’s Vintage Bouquet. I want to give new executive chef Eric Buss a proper go of it. Perhaps I’ll drop by during a Sunday at Seven movie night this summer.

2010 Cabernet Sauvignon
Lewelling Vineyards

My Thoughts: My favorite wine of the day. Smooth as satin, aromatic, with a fruity and floral finish.

Tofu with shiso pesto, peas, pea greens
Livello at L’Ermitage Beverly Hills

My Thoughts: Unless it’s floating in some miso soup, I really don’t dig tofu. However, this dish was too innovative to not give an acknowledgment of admiration. The execution is flawless, and though I would not personally be one for this particular dish, I am intrigued enough by the creativity that I would look into dining at Livello.

Slider and Sweet Potato - 25th Vintage Bouquet Food and Wine Event

Beef Slider & Sweet Potato Casserole with pecan crust
Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
My Thoughts: I think the beef would have fared better with another sort of bun; it was a little lost among the gluten. The sweet potato casserole with pecan crust saved the entire plate, though, and begging to be replicated come Thanksgiving. Thankfully, the good folks at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse handed out their recipe on nicely printed cards.

Moreno BHLV

My Thoughts: I ended my day at the Vintage Bouquet Food and Wine Event semi-hovering around the Moreno BHLV booth, chatting with familiar faces over cold, crisp and dry sparkling wine. I wish I could end every single one of my days like this!

Yeah, there was a silent auction. Yup, a live auction, too. Didn’t even notice. A band? Totally didn’t hear them. For me, this event is all about the food and drink; everything else merely fades into the background. Cheers to all of the food, wine, spirits and beverage vendors who tackled the task of serving up dozens of hungry and thirsty attendees in 90 degree weather.

Despite the shade and water shortage, the Vintage Bouquet is still one of the highlight events of my year. My lone quibble leads to the simple advice to always be prepared for the heat; increase the shade. Otherwise, keep doing what you’re doing, Vintage Bouquet. I can’t wait to taste 2014!

See all of my photos from the 25th (and 24th) Vintage Bouquet Food and Wine Event!

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Review: Lemonade Pasadena

Posted on May 7, 2013 by Rachael

After our afternoon of indulgence at the Dry Bar, friend and fellow blogger Melissa (The Valentine RD) and I decided we needed a little something in our stomach to combat with the high-end champagne we guzzled during our spectacular blow-outs. Lucky for us, Lemonade Pasadena is just two doors down from Dry Bar. Lemonade is one of those places that has been on the ever-growing “to eat at” list, but falls off the radar for one reason or another. I’d first encountered Lemonade at MOCA (The Museum of Contemporary Art), but it was either closed, or just too rich for my blood at the time. To be honest, I can count on one hand how many times I have been to MOCA on one hand and still have fingers leftover. Until Lemonade Pasadena opened up, I wasn’t aware that Lemonade was a chain.

Created by Chef Alan Jackson of The Farm (Beverly Hills) fame, the concept behind Lemonade is “Seasonal Southern California Comfort Food in a fast-casual cafeteria setting.” The fare at Lemonade echos an international influence, and has enough of a variety to please even the most discerning palates (i.e. me). I knew I was going to make dinner, so I opted for the salads – something nearly unheard of for me, and we can probably thank alcohol for lowering my standards. Urp. I mean…Anyway! I went for the “3 portions for $7.50″ under (again, champagne influenced) the thought process $5.25 for 2 portions was too expensive. Then I saw the size of the portions being scooped on my plate and whoops. Two portions would have been just dandy. Verdict: Good bang for my buck!

Arnold Palmer ($3.00)
lemonade, iced tea

I normally don’t purchase soft drinks when I’m dining out, but considering the name of the eatery and the fact that I am obsessed with Arnold Palmer’s. It’s pretty much the only way I can drink iced tea at restaurant, since restaurants serve iced tea with caffeine and I’m sensitive to liquid caffeine. This Arnold Palmer was not only very refreshing, but perfectly proportionate with the lemonade to iced tea ratio.

Orecchiette
cherry tomatoes, broccolini, feta

This dish was not memorable. I picked at it, mostly going for the cherry tomatoes and orecchiette. I’m particular about feta, and if memory serves, the feta in this salad was crumbled so finely I did not have much of an opportunity to examine its texture. It’s not that I wouldn’t recommend this salad, it’s just that it left no lasting impression with me either way.

Soba noodles
kimchi marinated vegetables, toasted peanuts

My favorite selection of my trio. Doesn’t really look like soba, though, does it? Maybe Okinawa soba? Whatever the case, it was delicious. The vegetables were well seasoned, the peanuts just the crunch I needed for texture contrast, and an overall kick of heat that did not take away from the harmony of the rest of the flavors.

Israeli couscous
wild mushrooms, Parmesan, lemon truffle

My least favorite of the trio, though that isn’t to say it wasn’t good, just not to my liking as I initially thought. While I’m a big fan of mushrooms, I think this dish reminded me that it’s only hot dishes where I enjoy mushrooms. Their texture and the overall seasoning, especially the truffle oil, did not do it for me. Upon reflection, I’m not precisely sure why I even gravitated towards it in the first place. Luckily, I traded Melissa this couscous for the remainder of her cake.

Chocolate Snack Cake ($5.00)
chocolate, whipped cream filling

Melissa purchased this slice of heaven for its memory inducing goodness. Moist, fluffy, chocolatey, and sweet without being that kind of sugary that leaves a gritty residue on ones teeth, this cake was the high class escort to the now out-of-business snack cake company’s two-dollar trick.

Overall, I dig Lemonade Pasadena and wouldn’t mind returning to try out their Beef stroganoff, mac n’ cheese, soups and sandwiches. It’s nice to have the option of moderately priced, casual dine-in/take out healthier options (you know, when one actually goes for the healthy options).

Lemonade
146 S. Lake Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91101
http://lemonadela.com
open daily from 11:00a-9:05p

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Chanel Hason and The Best Job in the World

Posted on May 6, 2013 by Rachael

My new friend and fellow South Pasadena High School Alum, Chanel Hason, is competing for the chance of a lifetime. Out of nearly 600,000 entries spanning from across the globe for six dream jobs up for grabs, Chanel has been chosen as a Top 25 finalist in The Best Job in the World competition. Chanel Hason joins 10 others stemming from the Los Angeles area on their quest to win 1 of the 6 Best Jobs in the World.

Australia Best Job in the World Contest: Chanel Hason – Wildlife Caretaker from Chanel Hason on Vimeo.

The next phase of the contest, which ends May 7 (PST), is for the finalists to generate an off the charts social media campaign. Then they have the potential to move on to the next round before the final selections. Hason is vying for the Wildlife Caretaker position located in South Australia for a 6 month contract worth $100,000!

“My passion in life is ocean conservation, environmental education and promoting sustainable living,” said Hason, who graduated from CSU Monterey Bay with a degree in Marine and Coastal Ecology. “I want to promote a good role model for women in the science field to never give up and follow their dreams.”

Chanel was kind enough to take a few moments out of her campaign and answer some questions I had to further get to know her and her core message.

What inspired you to dedicate your life to working with animals?

Chanel Hason: On a family trip to Sea World San Diego when I was 5 years old, a spark was lit inside of me that still burns brightly to this day. That spark turned out to be an undying love for animals, especially marine related. I thought about being a veterinarian in elementary school..until I realized I fainted at the sight of needles. Then I pursed the dream of becoming a marine mammal trainer, and attended different camps and summer classes to fulfill that dream. It wasn’t until I actually trained sea lions for a week in Moss Landing during the start of my collegiate career, that I realized that I wanted to do more in life than just train animals. I want to travel the world and spread the message of marine and environmental conservation to all that I come across!

Do you have a special memory during your time spent with animals?

Chanel Hason: I’ve had SO many great memories working with animals, it’s hard to just pick one. But if I had to share one with you, it would be getting to play with the octopus at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. As a volunteer there during college with the River/Sea Otters, we also go to do enrichment activities with the other animals at the Aquarium. My favorite animal is the octopus, so I was lucky enough to get the opportunity to feed the beautiful cephalopod and play around with her a little bit! She left little hickies on my hand and arm from her suckers that I wasn’t afraid to show off

Who among the field of wildlife and conservation have been an inspiration to you?

Chanel Hason: There are many inspirational people and organizations in the wildlife/environmental field that have influenced me. All members of the Cousteau family are heroes in my eyes. Their work with ocean awareness and conservation is remarkable and highly admirable. I am members of non-profit organizations: Oceana, Heal the Bay, The Wilderness Society, WWF, NRDC, and The Ocean Conservancy just to name a few. Sylvia Earl is another inspiration in the marine science field. Earl is a strong, independent, smart, successful woman to look up to in the science field.

What would winning the best job in the world mean to, and what would it entail?

Chanel Hason: Winning this job would be AMAZING! The job of Wildlife Caretaker is not all about animals. It’s about a journey of a lifetime. It’s about exploring exciting and unique locations/activities in South Australia, and sharing those stories with the world! It’s about assisting with conservation and research efforts spanning from the coastline to the Outback. It’s about walking up to strangers and sparking conversations which result in long-lasting friendships. It’s about preserving Australia’s natural ecosystems and wildlife. Winning this job could also lead to meeting amazing people in my field of interest, and possibly blossoming a career doing what I love after the 6-month contract is up. Who knows what’s in store for me?!

When you and others look back on your life, what do you want to be left behind? What message, what imprint?

Chanel Hason: When I leave this planet, I want to have instilled my 4 words in life to live by to everyone I have met in my life journey : Explore, Inspire, Learn, Give. We live on such a great planet, that people should hop on a plane and get out there to see as much of it as possible! There’s so many amazing hidden gems that are waiting for you out there to discover. I’ve been told I am an inspiration by many people because of my evident passion for animals and nature, and that I have been this way every since I was 5 years old. If I can inspire people do things that make them happy, live life positively, pursue their dreams and never give up, then I will die happy. As a huge nerd, I love learning anything and everything. You can never reach a maximum learning capacity

Go out and soak in as much as you can! Giving back is a huge part of my life, ever since I was in grade school. Volunteering to better not only people and your community, but also the planet itself, is one simple easy way to leave this world a better place for future generations.

How can we help Chanel Hason achieve her dream?

Chanel Hason: To help my chances of making the Top 3, I need to get as many non-monetary endorsements as possible from friends and family,” continued Hason. “It could be simply a Tweet, a Facebook posting or a picture of someone holding a sign that reads “Chanel for Wildlife Caretaker” or “Australia, Pick Chanel.”

Let’s get on it, Internet!
Follow her on Twitter!
Like her on Facebook!
Check out her daily video diaries on YouTube!
Check out her Photography + Science blog and enter her fantastic contest for a trip to Australia!

GOOD LUCK, CHANEL!

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What’s the Dish: Mother’s Day Specials Round Up

Posted on May 5, 2013 by Rachael

Here is a round-up of Mother’s Day Specials throughout the Los Angeles area. Be sure to leave me a comment letting me know of your Mother’s Day plans! Our are still tentative, but a picnic in the park might be in our future. Happy Mother’s Day!

Le Ka – Downtown LA’s chic new dining destination is the perfect place to treat mom to true California cuisine. Le Ka will be opening at 10:30 a.m. on Mother’s Day and will serve special brunch offerings, in addition to specialty mimosas and Bloody Mary’s from mixologist Andrew Parish.

Psycho/Mommie Dearest Double Feature – Spend Mother’s Day with Norman Bates and screen siren Joan Crawford at the legendary Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood as they pull out all the stops in this double feature of mothers from hell. Starting with the 1960 Hitchock classic Psycho: Embezzler Marion Crane (Janet Leigh) takes refuge from a rainstorm off the beaten track on a lonely California highway. Unfortunately, she checks in at the Bates Motel, presided over by Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins), a strange fellow living with his mother. Next up Faye Dunaway scorches as Joan Crawford in Mommie Dearest, a blistering exposé of the icon’s troubled and abusive relationship with her adopted daughter, Christina Crawford. When the night is done, you’ll leave the theater feeling slightly better about your relationship with mom!

Susan Feniger’s STREET – STREET is launching their new AYCE (All You Can Eat) small plates brunch this Mother’s Day. Treat mom to all the global street eats she wants. Dishes include Kaya Toast Bites, Moroccan Spiced Carrot Cake Muffins, Asparagus Egg White Frittatas, Tamale Benedict with Fresh Corn and Summer Squash Tamale topped with a Fried Egg and Roasted Poblano Hollandaise, Jackfruit Banh Mi Sliders on Toasted Baguette, Fresh Basil, Cilantro, Peanut, Spicy Pickled Vegetable Relish and Green Sriracha Aioli, and more. Brunch is $25 per person, with the option to add bottomless mimosa sparkling cocktails for $15.

Mother’s Day Delights at The Langham – Pasadena’s own elegant, private haven has not one, not two, not three but five Mother’s Day specials for you to pick and choose from! The Huntington Ballroom features a stunning spread which includes sushi and caviar, carving stations and made-to-order omelets; a chocolate fountain and a variety of pastries; and free-flowing champagne; The Royce Wood-Fired Steakhouse offers an interactive Sunday Market Brunch experience including a flowing mimosa station in the White Wine Room, displays of fresh breakfast pastries, and lively chef-action stations inside the kitchen, where guests will enjoy made-to-order brunch delicacies; At The Terrace, guests can order brunch specialties á la carte or indulge in an enhanced Mother’s Day breakfast buffet which includes an omelet and carving station; spring vegetables and potatoes; fruit, cereal and pastries; smoked fish and cheese; orange juice, coffee and tea. 10% of the proceeds from the Pink Chocolate Afternoon Tea at the Lobby Lounge go to Huntington Hospital Cancer Center; and The Huntington Spa offers two luxurious deals to spoil mom with massages and/or mani/pedi’s!

El Cid – Mother’s Day Flamenco Brunch & Dinner Shows! Brunch: Seating between 11am-12; Flamenco show 12:30 – 1:30 pm, $25pp: includes Flamenco show and a choice of five brunch entrees or $35 per person to add bottomless mimosas. Dinner $40 per person includes Flamenco show and a choice of dinner entrée, a cup of El Cid’s famous heirloom tomato gazpacho, an organic green salad and bittersweet treats and Spanish Flan for dessert.

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Happy Hour at Muddy Leek (Culver City)

Posted on April 25, 2013 by Rachael

A few weeks ago, I attended happy hour at Muddy Leek, the “hyper-seasonal” restaurant from catering couple Chef Whitney Flood and Julie Retzlaff of Bon Mélange Catering. Born from years of entertaining experience and a series of underground dinners, Muddy Leek is the couple’s first independent restaurant. Chef Whitney’s commitment to using the best of fresh, in-season ingredients promised a happy hour out of the norm of traditional bar bites, with bar manager Lance Kawani mixing up a myriad of cocktails to quench our thirst.

Lamb Merguez Hot Dog - Muddy Leek Invitational

Merguez Hot Dog
garlic aioli – grilled baguette

I’ve never been a fan of Merguez sausage, and I can’t say I’ve been won over yet. I think it might be the harissa? Either way, I only took a nibble of this to confirm my continual aversion to the meat. With that said, though, my companion was over the moon for this and wolfed down about four of them. Just don’t tell her I told you.

Grilled Speck and Manchego

My jaw dropped when I was told that the protein was speck, a meat I hadn’t eaten since I was last in Ireland. I’ve never seen speck within the USA, but I love its herby, juniper laden flavors. The addition of Manchego (Spanish cheese) elevated this bite in a way I never thought possible for simple grilled cheese. This was truly a pairing made in culinary heaven.

Italian Mule
vodka – amaro meletti – lime – ginger soda

The most familiar drink of the night; an Italian twist on the classic Moscow variety by the addition of Amaro Meletti, a liqueur with notes of saffron and anise. A safe and sweet drink to perk up the palate.

Venison Corndog - Mudddy Leek Snack Bites

Venison Corndog
house beer mustard

I was not particularly smitten with this bite, but my guest thought highly of it along with the beer mustard – which I did enjoy.

Chicken Fried Bacon - Muddy Leek Invitational

Chicken Fried Bacon
bibb lettuce, tomato chutney

If Victor Frankenstein were a chef rather than a scientist (really, the only difference is their mediums), he would have concocted this beautiful monstrosity. I cannot even begin to tell you how perfectly decadent these morsels are. I feel like running naked through the reflecting pool at the Washington Monument would be more dignified than sharing the sorry/not sorry lustful feelings I have for this dish. I regret not personally ordering another round to hoard all to my greedy self.

Blind Lemon Jefferson - Mudddy Leek Snack Bites

Blind Lemon Jefferson
rye, lemon, bitters

I was a bit nervous when this drink was given to me, as I normally don’t go for bold, masculine drinks. However, the lemon balanced out the rye without treading into ‘sweet’ territory, effectively making this drink not only palatable but completely pleasant and approachable for future visits.

Leek Pizetta
potato, bacon, cheese

The starch on starch combo was a big hit with everyone save for me, as I’ve never understood the appeal. Potato on pizza dough aside, though, the leeks, bacon and cheese were the real stars of this show. The leeks especially prominently stood out, giving a nice, earthy onion-y flavor.

Doughnut Holes

I’m not one for doughnuts, really, but these were just the right size for a touch of sweetness after all of our savory bites. My guest, a doughnut fiend, loved the simplicity of these little balls of fried dough coated plainly in sugar. A very happy end to our happy hour food.

Sr. Calarita
mezcal, jalapeno, cucumber, lime

Hands down, the best cocktail of the evening. The jalapeno added a whole new level of heady smokiness, a slow burn with a crisp cool down from the cucumber and lime. I could have had four of these.

It was nice to step out of my usual haunts and into a neighborhood I’m only beginning to become more acquainted with. As the event took place on a Thursday, it was the perfect evening to give those of us dealing with company/family the fortitude to brave through the holiday (Easter) weekend. Overall, the food was extremely enjoyable and left me with a pleasant, lingering feeling of wanting more. Precisely what happy hour is meant to accomplish. Happy hour at Muddy Leek runs from 4:00-6:00pm Tuesday through Saturday.

Muddy Leek
8631 Washington Blvd.
Culver City, 90232
310.838.2281
www.muddyleek.com

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Recipe Box: Rib Eye Steak with Mushroom Duxelle

Posted on April 23, 2013 by Rachael

Though I have a bit more work due before the end of the month, I am feeling infinitely better, and not as if I am desperately trying to stay afloat. April is always a chaotic month for me, and this April threw me some curve balls no one could have predicted, specifically a five-day stint at the hospital. It wasn’t even heart related, but because I was (emphasis on was) on blood thinners, my healing time took a few days worth of blood and plasma transfusions (big hugs and kisses to everyone who donates blood!). I was really tempted to check myself out on Saturday in time to make it for my big event (and truthfully, I don’t think it would have been that big of an issue), but I played the good patient and waited it out. It’s very difficult to be in the hospital when I feel fine! I’m still incredibly bummed out that I missed the charity gala for the non-profit organization I’ve been volunteer with for ten years; doubly so since I could not be there to help entice bidders for the art piece I created specifically to be auctioned off:

Once I returned home and felt my energy creeping back, I found myself yearning to get back into the kitchen. Though I take iron and vitamin D supplements, my body was craving the kind of nutrients one achieves through the consumption of animal protein. I know eating red meat is a hot debate, but I take on a “live and let live” attitude about it: I am not going to preach to anybody about abstaining from certain foods, so long as I am not preached at for consuming them. Except when it comes to fake sugar. Seriously, that stuff’ll kill you.

Now, I know my duxelle is chunky, but you will just have to forgive me for it. I’ve found that a lot of people are still intimidated by read meat – which I consider to be my specialty because of its ease. I promise you: this recipe is so flippin’ easy and it takes less than 30 minutes (OK, that might not include the time it takes for the steak to come to room temperature, but for medium-rare perfection, room temperature is a must!). My recipe is only for medium-rare because I am against the ruination of a perfectly good piece of meat. That cow died so that you could live; treat it with dignity and cook it medium-rare.

Rib Eye Steak with Mushroom Duxelle
serves: two

1 Rib-Eye steak, 1.5″-2″ thick
olive oil
salt
fresh ground black pepper

Let your steak come to room temperature.

Place a cast iron skillet into your oven, and pre-heat oven to 500 F

Remove the skillet when the oven reaches temperature, and place on the range over high heat for 5 minutes. steak lightly with oil and grind on black pepper before adding a hefty pinch of salt to both sides.

Place steak in middle of skillet (yup, the hot and dry skillet!)

Cook 30 seconds without moving. Turn with tongs and cook another 30 seconds, then put the pan straight into the oven for 2 minutes. Flip the steak and cook for another 2 minutes.

Remove the steak from the skillet, cover loosely with foil and allow it to rest for 2 minutes.

Serve with mushroom duxelle.

Mushroom Duxelle
1 8 oz. package baby bellas, sliced
1 shallot, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2-3 sprigs of fresh herb (rosemary and/or thyme), finely chopped
1/4th c. vermouth or sherry
2 tablespoons butter, divided
pinch of salt & fresh ground black pepper

In a skillet, add 1 tbsp butter and coat the bottom before adding mushrooms, shallot, herb(s), garlic and pinch of salt and pepper

Drain the pan of any excess liquid from the mushrooms and shallot

Add remaining butter and alcohol

Stirring frequently, cook contents until the alcohol has evaporated

Remove from heat, cool slightly before topping your steak with mixture.

Enjoy!

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Glass of Win

adventures of a food loving, globe-trekking geek girl extraordinaire

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What’s the Dish: Mother’s Day Specials Round Up

Happy Hour at Muddy Leek (Culver City)

Recipe Box: Rib Eye Steak with Mushroom Duxelle