The Valley Line: Lighted Window Preschool supporters are game for casino fundraiser

The stars were in perfect alignment and the moon was shining brightly when more than 130 guests gathered for the Lighted Window Preschool annual fundraiser held at the Thursday Club clubhouse late last month.

The Valley Line: Thursday Club presents annual fashion event

Spring was in full bloom March 19 when the La Cañada Thursday Club held its annual fashion show and luncheon that drew nearly 200 members and guests. This year the theme was “Garden Party.”

The Valley Line: Science Center presents annual Discovery Ball

It was a beautiful evening when formally dressed guests arrived at the Los Angeles’ California Science Center’s 17th annual Discovery Ball on March 7 that was inspired by “Dead Sea Scrolls: The Exhibition.”

The Valley Line: Tournament of Roses Assn. holds Happy Hour

Oh my, summer arrived early. Can you believe it? Who knew that we would be experiencing 90- degree weather in March? It was quite unbelievable and of course all sorts of records were set all, from Santa Barbara to San Diego.

The Valley Line: Starduster/Alaroma Dance Club takes to the floor

The Starduster/Alaroma Dance Club recently held its second dance of the season. The theme for the event, “Stars and Stripes Forever,” was chosen by presidents Cathy and Pete Palermo.

The Valley Line: Area eateries host 'Dinners from the Heart'

Here we are and it is the first week of March already. These past few days have been busy ones for many of our folk who are charity-minded. They have attended several dinners to raise funds for Hathaway-Sycamores Child and Family Services and its many programs. The annual event is called, “...

The Valley Line: LA Chamber Orchestra celebrates Lunar New Year

As I write this column it is a foggy morning with a hint of chill in the air. Thank goodness, at last it feels like February should.

The Valley Line: Roses association looks ahead to 2016

Have you enjoyed our July-like weather in February? I have been basking in the warmth but certainly don’t want it to get any hotter.

The Valley Line: USC School of Libraries presents annual Scripter Award

The recent, simply amazing, fabulous days of 80-plus degree winter weather were divine but certainly not helping our Southern California drought situation. I’d love to see more rain.

The Valley Line: Rose Bowl plays host to a different 'Bowl'

Super Bowl XLIX was certainly one for the books! The game was a nail-biter for sure. I’m still shaking my head at that call from a Seahawks offensive coach, apparently approved by head coach Pete Carroll, that ultimately lost the game for them.

The Valley Line: PSHA presents annual 'Empty House Party'

Once again Southern California was big news weather-wise this past weekend. While the East Coast was bracing for a blizzard we were basking in 80-degree warmth. Our two stunningly beautiful days inspired me to spruce up the backyard, with al fresco dining in mind.

The Valley Line: Chamber of Commerce installs new officers

Wow, here it is Jan. 22 already and I haven’t started fulfilling my New Year’s resolution promises yet. I guess that deserves a tap on the wrist as a reminder because my intentions are resolute — sort of.

The Valley Line: Sharing the story of a longtime Italian tradition

The last tree ornament has been carefully wrapped and put away for another year. The magic of Christmas has disappeared from my living room and it always makes me feel a little sad. My living room looks so bland and unadorned — no sparkle anywhere.

The Valley Line: Kudos to workers of award-winning 'To the Rescue'

It has been a week since the new year has begun and so far, so good — I hope it continues that way.

The Valley Line: Dickens Dinner reaches its conclusion

Happy New Year everyone! As I write this I don’t know how our float, “To the Rescue” fared in its New Year’s Day trip down Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena. Stay tuned next week.

The Valley Line: Area organizations host holiday events

Merry Christmas, everyone! This is my favorite day of the entire year. I hope that you are having a fabulous day and enjoying every moment.

The Valley Line: Lanterman gala debuts centennial exhibit

It is Dec. 18 already and St. Nicholas will soon be here. Whoa, big fella, slow down. I don’t have everything quite ready for your arrival. However, my five grandchildren are on pins and needles waiting for you.

The Valley Line: Bell ringers and singers highlight holiday party

At last our community got a good soaking of rain. It was so lovely and a wonderful excuse to stay home in front of the fireplace, listening to holiday music. I was furiously knitting with the hopes that I will get the scarf I’m making for a Christmas present done in time for Santa to add to...

The Valley Line: Hospital supporters sip wine, auction items

I hope your Turkey Day was a good one. I certainly had a fun time with my family. There is nothing better than having a house full of little kids (and one teenager) to keep the day entertaining — you never know where they are jumping next. The crowning achievement for six of my family’...

The Valley Line: Movie premiere satisfies fans' 'Hunger'

Happy Turkey Day! Hopefully you have a wonderful and warm gathering with family and friends.

The Valley Line: A rip-roarin' time at guild's Western event

All those TV holiday commercials that are entreating me to buy this or that and do it now are totally wasted on me. Truth of the matter is that they just annoy me. I don't have to be reminded when Christmas is. I guess I'm an adrenaline junkie; I don't want to shop early because I like the...

The Valley Line: Hospital guild holds Book and Author Luncheon

I loved the rain we had overnight Oct. 31 to Nov. 1. It was wonderful in every way. I didn't even mind the water running over my shoes in the rain gutter. I was doing my own kind of silly rain dance — thinking of Gene Kelly and his iconic dance in the film, "Singing in the Rain." Alas, it...

The Valley Line: Ball's elegance and charm were no masquerade

Here we are on the fast track to the holidays. Halloween and all those cute trick-or-treaters are just a memory along with the remnants of a few smashed pumpkins on the sidewalk.

The Valley Line: Flintridge Guild members tour Children's Hospital

Longtime "Mainers" told me that this year's crop of autumn leaves were the best that they can remember. I got to see them for myself during a recent 10-day adventure in that beautiful state. I was amazed by the bright red maple trees, golden birches, and orange hardwoods — it was stunning!

The Valley Line: L.A. Philharmonic Orchestra event honors Williams

It was a star-studded evening when the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by music director Gustavo Dudamel, opened the 2014-15 season Sept. 30 with "A Celebration of John Williams: Opening Night Gala Concert" at Walt Disney Concert Hall.

The Valley Line: Fundraisers look for green on area golf courses

Autumn fundraisers have been taking to the links recently. Golfers were teeing up for Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy in La Cañada Flintridge and Altadena-based Five Acres, whose mission is to protect children.

The Valley Line: Jack-o'-Lanterns at Descano; Tournament of Roses happy hour party

Thousands of illuminated intricately carved pumpkins lit the path as 250 supporters of Descanso Gardens’ many programs came to preview the unique display called “RISE of the Jack O’ Lanterns” at an elegant party.

LCF resident sings at George Clooney, Amal Alamuddin's wedding

Former member of the Miss La Cañada Flintridge royal court and 2014 La Cañada High School graduate Nora Sagal showcased her vocal talents for a very special crowd Saturday during a performance at the wedding of George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin in Venice, Italy.

The Valley Line: Annual wine, food tasting event attracts hundreds

It was a spectacular autumn afternoon on Sunday, when more than 800 people came to Memorial Park to sip fine wines and sample gourmet foods at the 12th annual Wine and Gourmet Food Tasting and premium wine auction event. The gathering was sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of La Cañada, Le Petit...

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  Photo Gallery: 12th annual Wine and Food Tasting

Outgoing Kiwanis president presides over last meeting of his term

After a year as president of the Kiwanis Club of La Cañada, Tom Passanisi conducted the final meeting of his presidency Sept. 17 in Van de Kamp Hall at Descanso Gardens. He has been succeeded by Dr. Fred Shooley, who was installed as president Wednesday night, along with a newly elected board...

The Valley Line: Couple honored with Hathaway-Sycamores award

Triple-digit heat outside did not curb the enthusiasm that abounded in the Los Angeles Dodgers' Stadium Club on Tuesday, Sept. 16 when some 400 people turned out to honor George and Annsley Strong with the Hathaway-Sycamores' Celebrating Children Award. The event...

The Valley Line: MUSE/IQUE wraps up summer concert season; Los Angeles Childrens Chorus features local youth

Oh my gosh, I'm absolutely melting in this extreme hot weather. But what has been worse is the stickiness that has accompanied the heat.

The Valley Line: Concert series' closing show draws sold-out crowd

I had a great, albeit too short getaway recently. My love for art took me to San Diego's Balboa Park and the San Diego Art Museum to see a fabulous exhibit of Spanish artist Joaquin Sorolla y Bastida called, "Sorolla and America." An extra dollop of exquisite art was found in the special...

The Valley Line: Roses group members cook up Happy Hour fun

Summer is beginning to drag its feet as we simmer in near triple-digit heat. Yes, I know it happens every year, but that doesn't make it any better!

The Valley Line: Music on the Main summer series concludes

On several occasions in recent days I had to pinch myself to remind me that it was August because we have been experiencing "June gloom" in the morning.

The Valley Line: Descanso's summer jazz series winds down; Michael Feinstein conducts Pasadena Pops Orchestra

This past week our hills (the San Gabriel Mountains) have been alive with music. It has been a beautiful musicscape, I might add.

The Valley Line: Enjoying the concert series at Descanso Gardens

Last week was the most unusual week of early August weather that I can remember in Southern California.

Hathaway-Sycamores holding annual fundraiser

Hathaway-Sycamores Child and Family Services will honor a La Cañada Flintridge couple when it holds its annual fundraiser, the Celebrating Childrens Awards Reception, at Dodger Stadium on Sept. 16, beginning at 5 p.m.

The Valley Line: Pageant of the Masters; LCF 'floaters' conduct their Happy Hour

I made my annual trek to Laguna Beach for the Pageant of the Masters. This year, daughter Heather flew down from her home in Palo Alto to join me. We had a fun day as we shopped and lunched first at Fashion Island in Newport Beach, then went on to the fantastic Roger's Gardens, a floral and gift...

The Valley Line: Oakmont League celebrates 75th anniversary

What a strange day Sunday was — not at all like the usual weather we experience toward the end of July. A cloudy day in July is hardly ever on the weatherperson's menu, or mine, for that matter.

The Valley Line: Chamber's mixer celebrates 'Christmas in July'

My goodness we are speeding through summer. It's hard to believe we are almost done with July and on to August. In just weeks the local kids will be back to school.

The Valley Line: Hillsides H100 is ready for the next century

It was an exquisite summer evening when nearly 100 guests gathered near Descanso Garden's famed rose garden for the Hillsides H100's fifth annual "Farm to Table Dinner" fundraising event.

The Valley Line: Dancing groups offer a 'Summer Serenade'

That grand flag of our nation had its big day of celebration last Friday. I was up north in the San Francisco Bay Area to visit my kids, Chris and Heather and their offspring, Aidan, 13; Lucan, 11; Catherine, 10;...

The Valley Line: Hollywood Bowl opens for its 93rd summer

On the very first eve of summer the iconic Hollywood Bowl opened with a gala that will long be remembered. Nearly 18,000 people came, some with picnic baskets in tow, to experience what summer is all about in the greater Los Angeles area — al fresco dining and music of all genres played in a...

The Valley Line: GLAZA celebrates 44th Beastly Ball

Last Saturday we ushered in summer officially — yes, the hot season is here. I'll keep you posted about my home's lame air conditioning system. Hope yours works better!

The Valley Line: Golfers hit the links for Hathaway-Sycamores

Last Sunday, fathers everywhere were feted — some with treasured handmade gifts from their children while others were treated to fancy brunches at even fancier country clubs or restaurants.

The Valley Line: LACC presents annual Gala Bel Canto; LCF resident turns 98

This past week it seemed we are tiptoeing toward summer, at least we didn't have triple-digit degree days. That's good!

The Valley Line: Five Acres presents 'Swingin' on a Star Gala'

I know it was more than a week ago now, but I really liked the Fiesta Days family dinner and fireworks show that took place in Memorial Park. I love to ooh and ahh as the dark night lights up in colors of the rainbow that sparkle. It's not my fault, you know, it is that little kid that refuses to...

The Valley Line: Magic of FSHA gala was no illusion

Another Fiesta Days celebration has just marched into history and it did it with great style. The events began on Friday night with Casino Night at the Community Center of La Cañada Flintridge. On Saturday the AM Kiwanis Club staged its popular community breakfast at Memorial Park,...

The Valley Line: LCHS student appears in 'Amazing Spider-Man 2'; Flintridge Guild of Children's Hospital benefit

I dragged myself through the hot spell we had last week that arrived way too soon. It was torture for me, who hates heat. Some people tried to make me feel better by saying, "Oh, but a least it's not humid." Sorry folks, that is hardly a consolation prize — it was still too dang hot!