Mark DeCarlo visits the island of Maui and invites you to join in on all the fun.

As heard on Mad Dog’s radio show in Palm Springs:

The Maui Prince, Hawaii -Filled with enchantment and romance, this Hawaiian paradise will find its way into your hearts without emptying your pockets. Rated one of the top hotels of the island, the Maui Prince is now offering amazing rates for all their rooms, including ocean front rooms. Their amenities range from spa to complimentary valet to wi-fi in your room, should you need it.

Take advantage of their Special Packages or let them take the worry away from planning a wedding! That’s right, lucky divas! They also have wedding packages, complete with every detail, including the fabulous backdrop of Black Rock and red sunsets.

***

Email us at diva@travelingdiva.com for more info and special rates not advertised on their website!

and….. shhhhhh… the secret to their free upgrades!!!!!! diva@travelingdiva.com

MONDAY

HAHA CAFÉ COMEDY CLUB
5010 Lankershim Blvd  North Hollywood, CA 91610
(818) 508-4995
Sign up: 5:00 pm   Show: 6:00 pm
Cost: $5

COMEDY STORE
8433 W Sunset Blvd  Los Angeles, CA 90069
(323) 656-6225
Sign up: 6-6:30 pm  Show: 7:00 pm

KULTURAS BOOKS (2ND Monday)
1700 Ocean Park Blvd  Santa Monica, CA
(310) 450-8707
Sign up: 6:00 pm  Show: 7:30 pm
Notes: Music & comedy open mic

CAFÉ MUSE
6547 Santa Monica Blvd  Hollywood, CA 90038
(323) 464-6873
Sign up: 7:00 pm  Show: 7:30 pm
Notes: Comedy & poetry

RAINBOW BAR AND GRILL
9015 W Sunset Blvd  West Hollywood, CA 90189
(310) 278-4232
Sign up: 8:00 pm  Show: 8:30 pm
Cost: $2
Notes: Comedy & music open mic

SKINNY’S LOUNGE
4923 Lankershim Blvd  North Hollywood, CA 91601
(818) 763-6581
Sign up: 8:00 pm  Show: 8:15 pm
Notes: Mostly booked show. Drawing for 2 open mic spots

GROUND ZERO COFFEE HOUSE
615 Child’s Way  Los Angeles, CA 90089
(213) 821-1484
Sign up: 9:00 pm (USC students)  Sign up: 9:20 pm (general public)
Show: 9:30 pm
Notes: Music, comedy & poetry open mic

LIQUID ZOO
7214 Sepulveda Blvd  Van Nuys, CA 91405
(818) 997-3818
Sign up: 9:00 pm  Show: 10:00 pm

HOLLYWOOD BILLIARDS SPORTSBAR & GRILL
5750 Hollywood Blvd  Los Angeles, CA 90028
(323) 465-0115
Sign up: 7:30 pm  Show: After booked show (approx. 10 pm)
Notes: Booked show at 8:30 pm, open mic follows

SOAP BOX at WEBER’S
19312 Vanowen, Reseda CA 91335
Sign up: 6:30 pm  Show: 7 pm
Free (no cover and no minimum)
For comedians, musicians, and poets
Set length: 7 to 10 min or 2 to 3 songs
Questions: Soapboxsessions@gmail.com  spreadthesoap.com

TUESDAY

HOLLYWOOD IMPROV
8162 Melrose Ave  Hollywood, CA 90046
(323) 651-2583
Sign up: 4:30 pm  Show: 5:00 pm

HAHA CAFÉ COMEDY CLUB
5010 Lankershim Blvd  North Hollywood, CA 91610
(818) 508-4995
Sign up: 5:00 pm  Show: 6:00 pm
Cost: $5

LAUGH FACTORY
8001 Sunset Blvd  West Hollywood, CA 90046
(323) 656-1336
Sign up: 5:00 pm (get there early)  Show: 6:00 pm

KERCKHOFF COFFEE SHOP – UCLA
Kerckhoff Hall, 2nd Floor  UCLA Campus
(310) 206-0729
Sign up: 6:30 pm  Show: 7:00 pm

AMSTERDAM CAFÉ
10905 Magnolia Blvd  North Hollywood, CA 91601
(818) 506-1938
Sign up: 6:30 pm  Show: 7:00 pm
Notes: Music, comedy & poetry open mic

BLISS CAFÉ
1249 Vine St  Hollywood, CA 90038
(323) 962-2986
Sign up: 6:00 pm  Show: 7:30 pm

WESTWOOD BREWCO
1097 Glendon Ave  Westwood, CA 90024
(310) 209-2739
Sign up: 8:00 pm  Show: 8:00 pm

THE COFFEE GALLERY BACKSTAGE
2029 North Lake  Altadena, CA 91001
(626) 398-7917
Sign up: bohemianjoe@gmail.com, or call (626) 831-8285  Show: 8:00 pm

LA PIZZA
16904 Devonshire St  Granada Hills, CA 91344
(818) 366-6888
Sign up: Register at socalstandup.com  Show: 8:00 pm

HALLENBECK’S
5510 Cahuenga Blvd  North Hollywood, CA 91601
(818) 985-5916
Sign up: 7:00 pm  Show: 8:00 pm
Cost: $7 includes food and drink
Notes: Music & comedy

FENDER AVENUE BAR AND GRILL
2466 Fender Ave  Fullerton, CA 92831
(714) 441-0777
Sign up: Booked open mic. Meet host for a spot  Show: 8:30 pm

MICHAEL’S PUB
11506 Oxnard St  North Hollywood, CA 91606
(818) 980-9762
Sign up: 9:00 pm  Show: 10:00 pm

EL CID’S OPEN MIC (2nd & 4th Tuesday)
4212 W Sunset Blvd  Los Angeles, CA 90029
(323) 668-0318
Sign up: 7:30 pm  Show: 8:30 pm
Notes: Music, poetry & comedy open mic
Cost: $5

E STREET CAFE
128 W E St  Encinitas, CA 92024
(760) 230-2038
Show: 7:30 pm
Notes: Mixed open mic

CANOGA PARK BOWL
20122 Vanowen St  Canoga Park, CA 91306
(818) 340-5140
Show: 8:00 pm
Notes: Booked open mic. Email host on Friday for spot
(bookings @comicdante.com)

WEDNESDAY

HAHA CAFÉ COMEDY CLUB
5010 Lankershim Blvd  North Hollywood, CA 91610
(818) 508-4995
Sign up: 5:00 pm  Show: 6:00 pm
Cost: $5

ICE HOUSE ANNEX
Uncle Clyde’s Comedy Contest Auditions
24 N Mentor Ave Pasadena, CA 91106
(626) 449-6542
Sign up: 6:30 pm Show: 8:00 pm
Notes: Blackout dates apply. Check website first.

BLISS CAFÉ
1249 Vine St Hollywood, CA 90038
(323) 962-2986
Sign up: 6:30 pm

THE SPOT CAFE
4455 Overland Ave Culver City, CA 90230
(310) 482-3490
Sign up: 7:00 pm Show: 7:00 pm
Notes: Sign up is a lottery

TSUNAMI COFFEE HOUSE
4019 W Sunset Blvd Silver Lake, CA 90029
(323) 661-7771
Sign up: 7:00 pm Show: 7:30 pm
Cost: $3 (incl. drink)

THE PANINI GARDEN CAFÉ
2715 Main St Santa Monica, CA 90405
(310) 399-9939
Sign-up: 8:30 pm Show: 9:00 pm

THE OTHER PLACE
821 E Thousand Oaks Blvd Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
(805) 497-4469
Sign up: 7:30 pm Show: 8:00 pm

PIG & WHISTLE BAR
6714 Hollywood Blvd Hollywood, CA 90028
(323) 463-0000
Sign up: 7:30 pm Show: 8:00 pm
Notes: Comedy & music

M.i.’s Westside Comedy Theater
1323-A 3rd Street Promenade Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 451-0850
Sign up: 7:00 pm Show: 7:30 pm
Notes: Lottery with about 15 names being drawn

DANNY’S VENICE
23 Windward Ave Venice, CA 90291
310-566-5610
Sign up: 8:00 pm

THURSDAY

HAHA CAFÉ COMEDY CLUB
5010 Lankershim Blvd North Hollywood, CA 91610
(818) 508-4995
Sign up: 5:00 pm Show: 6:00 pm
Cost: $5

THE JOKE GYM (1st & 3rd Thursdays)
Zapata Vive Mexican Restaurant
101 S. First Ave. (at Alta) Arcadia, CA 91006
(626) 254-9111
Sign up: 6:30 pm Show: 7:00 pm
Notes: Website for details is thejokegym.com

COFFEE BEAN
16101 Ventura Blvd, Ste 180 Encino, CA 91436
(818) 386-0935
Sign up: 7:00 pm Show: 7:30 pm

GYPSY DEN
125 N Broadway Santa Ana, CA 92701
(714) 835-8840
Sign up: 6:00 pm Show: 8:00 pm
Notes: Music, Comedy, Poetry

THE FUNNY LOUNGE
465 W 7th St San Pedro, CA 90731
(310) 833-3388
Sign up: 7:30 pm Show: 8:00 pm
Notes: Comedy, music & poetry. Owner scouting for paid
spot on weekend shows

THE COMIC BUG (3rd Thursday)
1807½ Manhattan Beach Blvd Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
(310) 372-6784
Sign up: 8:00 pm Show: 8:15 pm
Notes: Free beer (21+). Free comics for first 10 people.

UNURBAN COFFEEHOUSE
3301 Pico Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90404
(310) 315-0056
Sign up: 9:30 pm, drawing Show: 9:30 pm

LUCKY STRIKE LANES & LOUNGE
The Block of Orange Mall
20 City Blvd West Orange, CA 92868
(714) 937-5263
Sign up: ???   Show: 8:30 pm
Notes: Open mic at 8:30 pm, main show at 9 pm

FRIDAY

THE SUNSET GRILL
7439 W. Sunset Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 851-5557
Show: 6:00 pm

UPRIGHT CITIZENS BRIGADE THEATRE (last Friday)
5919 Franklin Ave Hollywood, CA 90028
(323) 908-8702
Sign up: 6:00 pm Show: 6:30 pm

LULU’S BEEHIVE
13203 Ventura Blvd Studio City, CA 91604
(818) 986-2233
Sign up: Email Jason at californiacomedy@gmail.com the Tuesday before Show: 6:30 pm

SILVERLAKE LOUNGE
2906 Sunset Blvd Silver Lake, CA 90026
(323) 663-9636
Sign up: 6:00 pm Show: 6:30 – 9:00 pm
free show
21+

AMSTERDAM CAFÉ
10905 Magnolia Blvd North Hollywood, CA 91601
(818) 506-1938
Sign up: 7:30 pm Show: 8:00 pm
Notes: Music, comedy & poetry open mic

COFFEE HAVEN
1708 E Broadway Long Beach, CA 90802
(562) 437-3785
Sign up: call 7 am and on to get on list  Show: 8:00 pm
Cost: $3

SATURDAY

ICE HOUSE ANNEX (1st Saturday)
24 N Mentor Ave Pasadena, CA 91106
(626) 449-6542
Show: 3:00 pm
Notes: Auditions for “All-Star Variety Night”

THE SUNSET GRILL
7439 W. Sunset Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 851-5557
Show: 6:00 pm

THE MONTHLY INTERVENTION (2nd & 4th Saturday)
Loyal Order of Moose Lodge
1901 W Burbank Blvd Burbank, CA 91506
(818) 842-5851
Sign up: 7:00 pm  Show: 7:30 pm

SUNDAY

COMEDY STORE
8433 W Sunset Blvd West Hollywood, CA 90069
(323) 656-6225
Sign up: 6:00-6:30 pm   Show: 7:00 pm

THE PALMS BAR
8572 Santa Monica Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90069
(310) 652-6188
Sign up: 6:30 pm  Show: 7:00 pm

THE SUNSET GRILL
7439 W. Sunset Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 851-5557
Show: 7:30 pm

iO WEST ANDY DICK THEATRE
6366 Hollywood Blvd Hollywood, CA 90028
(323) 962-7560
Sign up: 9:45 pm
Show: 10:00 pm

How to get there: The eastern-most city in Los Angeles County, Claremont is 30 miles east of downtown Los Angeles along Interstate 10. It’s a destination quite unlike any other in Southern California: A hidden gem within the sprawling, urbanscape of the L.A. basin.  From LA: Take the 134 to the 210 exit North Towne Avenue South. Ontario International Airport (ONT) – 10 miles  Los Angeles – 40 miles

STAY:   Hotel Casa 425 is just what it claims to be: a home away from home. Located on the town square, within steps of fine restaurants, cafes, boutiques, art galleries and the prestigious Claremont Colleges, Casa 425 is a sophisticated boutique hotel with spacious rooms with clean lines and understated art.  Most of the rooms of this stylish boutique hotel open onto a tranquil courtyard in the heart of historic Claremont Village, and within walking distance of all the nightlife.  This diva recommends you grab a drink at the hip lounge or a complimentary green apple on your way out.

Hotel Casa 425 425 West First Street, Claremont, CA 91711  909-624-2272 http://www.casa425.com

RELAX: Besides being a great place to stay of Doubletree fame, this hotel houses an incredible top rated spa and salon for Claremont visitors. Essentials Day Spa & Salon claims it is specifically designed to provide a haven for your Mind, Body and Soul, so I put it to the test.  As I floated out of the salon after my spa pedicure and my full-body massage/scrub by an incredibly gorgeous Latina/Amazon goddess, I questioned my plans to keep on discovering the city, or go back inside for more pampering.  I highly recommend you spend at least half a day experiencing Essentials’ exquisite hair and nail services, full body massage, treatments, and complete skin spa menu.  Remember to thank the Amazon goddess as you float out after your massage.

Essentials Day Spa & Salon at the Doubletree Hotel Claremont 555 W. Foothill Blvd. Claremont, CA 91711 Phone: 909-626-2411 www.Doubletreeclaremont.com

EAT! La Parolaccia, in Italian, literally means “The Bad Language,” which you’ll be using if you happen to miss out on dinner at this place.  This Italian gourmet corner restaurant seems to be the all the rage in Claremont Village.  Within the fancy interiors, the first thing you notice is the smell of delicious garlic and the smile of our server.  I don’t think I’ve ever enjoyed eating so much, munching on Focaccia “Forza Italia,” a thin crust focaccia from their wood burning oven, topped with goat cheese, tomato sauce, arugula, fresh tomatoes and white truffle oil.  YUM! …and while I generally like my meat well done, I have to admit to LOVING the Carpaccio di Bue con Arugola e Funghi, or as I called it, heaven in my mouth.  This appetizer of raw beef tenderloin came topped with fresh arugula, mushrooms, capers and shaved parmesan cheese. DOUBLE YUM!

La Parolaccia Osteria Italiana 201 N. Indian Hill  Claremont, CA 91711 909-624-1516 http://laparolacciausa.com/

HANG OUT! Claremont Village. This tree-lined downtown houses a myriad of mom and pop places as well as trendy favorites.  You’ll find a specialty cheese and olive oil place, The Cheese Cave, where you can try cheeses from all over the world, specialty fennel salame and hand-pressed olive oils. Definitely ask for a taste of “Snow White.” You’ll absolutely adore it. You’ll never think of the fairy tale the same way again.

Cheese Cave 325 North Yale Avenue  Claremont, CA 91711-4727  909-625-7560 http://www.claremontcheese.com/

WINE AND DINE! What a better place to start a hot date than a dimly lit place being served high quality wine and light fare, surrounded by comfy pillows? Add 1950’s standards to that equation and no woman could resist.  Packing House Wine Merchants on First Street offers excellent service with an enjoyable, relaxing, and fun atmosphere at which to shop, drink, and learn about wine. This is definitely a place of which Sinatra would approved.

Packing House Wine Merchants 540 West 1st Street Claremont, CA 91711-4618  909-445-9463  http://www.packinghousewines.com/

CULTIVATE! Fancy a romantic walk amongst the flowers?  Head to Rancho Santa Ana Botanical Garden.  Spread across 86 acres in Claremont, California, the Garden is located approximately 35 miles east of Los Angeles. Nestled in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, the Garden offers beautiful mountain vistas. The Garden displays about 2000 taxa of California plants and includes those native to the California Floristic Province as a whole. This region extends into southern Oregon, far western Nevada and extensively into Baja California, Mexico. Docents lead tours of the Garden periodically. 

Rancho Santa Ana Botanical Garden 1500 N. College Ave. Claremont, CA 91711 909-626-7670   http://www.rsabg.org

PARTY! Piano Piano is your big city dueling piano bar with some of the most amazing talent you’ve ever seen come out of a small town.  I was lucky enough to be there on a night when Susan was at one of the pianos…. I can’t say I’ve ever seen a more fabulous rocker chick who can blow your mind on the piano, drums, keytar, AND harmonica.  All while looking like Rocker Barbie. That same night, Shaun, a fantastic voice, not to be overshadowed by the sexy dances while grinding on the stage and on some of the lucky guests.  This is a place you will want to go back to time and time again.

Piano Piano (at Doubletree Hotel) 555 W Foothill Blvd Claremont, CA 91711  909-626-2411  http://www.duelingpianopiano.com

JAZZ IT UP! Hip Kitty is a swanky and intimate jazz supper club and lounge in downtown Claremont’s Village.  Located in the renovated, historic landmark Packing House, the warm and eclectic vintage décor takes you back to an era when jazz was subversive and fondue was all the rage.  Hip Kitty is classy but casual and over 21 only- a great place for a date night or a special celebration.  The retro menu features a wide selection of cheese, meat, seafood and chocolate fondues that are cooked right at your table, in addition to our lounge food menu.    Live music is featured on its stage 6 nights a week and every seat in the house has a great view.

Hip Kitty Jazz & Fondue 502 West 1st Street Claremont, CA 91711  909-447-6700 http://www.hipkittyjazz.com/

VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFE! Partying not your thing?  Make sure to catch a show or two when you are Claremont.  If comedy is your style, Flappers Comedy Club’s A-list comedians like James P. Connolly perform for very thankful audiences.  The food at Flappers is also quite good. The cheese plate was unexpectedly fantastic, and even the MC and host comedians were great. Make sure you drink plenty at the Wine Merchants downstairs and the comedy and cheese will seem even better. 

Flappers Comedy Club 532 W 1st Street, Unit 218, Claremont, CA  91711 818-845-9721  http://www.flapperscomedy.com

Ben D. Bollinger’s Candlelight Pavilion Dinner Theatre provides patrons with a dinner theatre and musicals for a theatrical experience the caliber of the Broadway shows in downtown LA without the freeway or parking dilemmas. Located in the center of Claremont, CA, audiences can enjoy a nice dinner and a show surrounded by locals.  This is the sort of place you’d take your parents.

Candlelight Pavilion Dinner Theater 455 W Foothill Blvd Claremont, CA 91711  909-626-1254  http://www.candlelightpavilion.com

THE SCOOP! Don’t let this college town fool you.  Yes, there are plenty of youngsters, but that also brings about the hot singles and the eye candy.  Who says you can’t find a good man in LA?  Well, they’re half right… go find him in Claremont.

Featuring acclaimed comedians Ludo Vika, Katy Franco, Jackie Dollar, Shayla Rivera, Tere Joyce, Jeffrey Peterson and Ruben Rabasa.

Kick start your weekend with Ludo’s Funny Burlesque, yet another fabulous show from vivacious comedian Ludo Vika, a one time only event on March 4^th at 10 PM at M Bar in Hollywood!  Ludo puts a sexy spin on stand-up comedy by giving her talented comic friends a touch of Burlesque and providing the audience with an hour and a half of firecracker entertainment.  Comedy by acclaimed comedians Ludo Vika, Katy Franco, Jackie Dollar, Shayla Rivera, Tere Joyce, Jeffrey Peterson, and Ruben Rabasa.  Music and Burlesque dance by: Roxanne Ferrara, Jacquelyn Kennedy, and Enicole Smith. Surprise guests and prizes including Cancun vacations and giveaways by Goddess Fitness! Burlesque clothing for performers provided by Dewberries.  Tickets are $15 at the door.  The two-drink minimum will get you in the mood for a little burlesque and a lot of laughs!  The party continues at El Floridita for more drinking and dancing!  M Bar Restaurant & Lounge is located at 1253 Vine Street, Hollywood, CA 90038, right next to El Floridita.  For more info please call 323-856-0036 or find Ludo’s Funny Burlesque on Facebook at http://tinyurl.com/4gy3yfg

WHO: One-Time Only Event: Ludo’s Funny Burlesque at M Bar in Hollywood

WHAT: Yet another fabulous show from vivacious comedian Ludo Vika! Ludo puts a sexy spin on stand-up comedy by giving her talented comic friends a touch of Burlesque and providing the audience with an hour and a half of firecracker entertainment.   Comedy by acclaimed comedians Ludo Vika, Katy Franco, Jackie Dollar, Shayla Rivera, Tere Joyce, Jeffrey Peterson, and Ruben Rabasa.  Music and Burlesque dance by: Roxanne Ferrara, Jacquelyn Kennedy, and Enicole Smith.  Surprise guests and door prizes including Cancun vacations and giveaways by Goddess Fitness! After party at EL Floridita!

WHERE: M Bar Restaurant & Lounge 1253 Vine Street, Hollywood, CA 90038 – 323-856-0036 (Next to El Floridita Restaurant)

WHEN: March 4^th @ 10PM

TICKETS: $15 at the door (2 drink minimum)

I’m not sure about the rest of my divas, but there was a time when I was NOT the most popular girl in school…  and that time was junior high.  With acne, a heavy Cuban accent added on to my limited English vocabulary, hand-me-down clothes and an afro.. (yes, an afro) I ran to the school bus every afternoon wen that bell rang, only to be confronted with more laughter and snickering…

But if Nia Vardalos made it through, so can the rest of us.

Take a look at the video message from this fabulous artist to all of you who are still going through it.  Good luck and hang in there!  It gets better.. really, it does.

It Gets Better: Nia Vardalos and Rob Riggle

“Growing up is hard. None of us ever really feel like we fit in. Most of us are scared. But no one is more scared than the kid who gets picked on every day. Bullies are scared too. That’s why they pick on the kids they think won’t fight back. Let’s talk about it and make schools a safer place for everyone.”

-Nia

Inspired by Dan Savage’s “It Gets Better” Project, Nia Vardalos and Rob Riggle made this video contribution. Learn more at http://www.itgetsbetterproject.com and http://www.thetrevorproject.org

The 1980 Chicago poster I’ve displayed in my home since relocating to Southern California in 1987, shows the city as a child’s crayon coloring exercise. Blue Lake Michigan and green parks are in the forefront while the rest of the US recedes to the Pacific. New York and the Atlantic are seen beyond Asia giving the artwork a vitality which amuses and refreshes, just as the real city does for visitors.

First-time guests are astounded by Chicago’s breath-taking lakefront, stretching for miles, awash in sailboats, marinas, pristine parks dotted with notable sculptures, fountains, all anchored by world-class museums set like glittering jewels into the vast parks. That’s the view from atop the Hancock Building…something not to be missed. It offers a superlative shoreline vista.

The sunlight bouncing off the lake, enhanced by the tens of acres of open spaces, gives the public buildings a fairytale feel, as though someone sketched them in watercolors. The openness of the lakefront owes a debt to Chicago architect Daniel Burnham. He designed among many projects,  the lakefront parks, skyscrapers and the Chicago Columbian Exposition, 1893. Taking his cue from Baron Georges Haussmann, 19th century city planner of the old Roman city of Paris, which was entirely rebuilt to Haussmann’s designs, Burnham designed the city’s new look.  Old Chicago was burned down in the Chicago fire, October, 1871. Burnham and the city’s leading citizens seized the opportunity to recast the city in more of a European  style, yet, with strong American underpinnings. These were the people who were already collecting Renoirs, Monets and other masterpieces now found at the Art Institute. These vibrant successful Americans put their mark on the former swamp-city Chicawa.

We never tire of ‘going home” to drink in the energy of vibrant Chicago.  In August we made our annual pilgrimage to take in a championship roller hockey tournament, see the museums and do lunch on the lakefront. We sampled a café in Millennium Park and delighted in being at the pinnacle of pleasure at the delightful Signature Room, on the 95th floor of the iconic Hancock Building, Michigan Avenue.

Of course, we paid our respects to the fabulous Impressionist painting collection at the Art Institute of Chicago. I’ve got the postcards of Renoir’s “Two Sisters – On theTerrace,” “The Rowers’ Lunch,” to prove it. In fact, my collection includes one of the miniature Thorne Rooms and the monumental Georges Seurat “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte”- which I obtain over and over. I also raid the gift shop for children’s art books. Always treasures to be found there. The thrill of being in close proximity to great masterpieces right in one’s own hometown encourages the soul to relish creativity. Our friends took in the new modern wing of the museum…a bridge too far for bad knees.

After seeing the paintings (“On The Terrace”is still on the back wall where it is not seen to advantage) we strolled a block north to the Park Grill, tucked under the lee of the stunning sculpture affectionately called “The Bean.”  Sam, our waiter, secured a secluded alcove for our party of six old-time friends. It was relaxing and fun. The menu offers seafood, salads and pastas, as well as kobe burgers ($17),grilled turkey burgers ($14) and chicken wraps ($14.50). Opening with friedcalamari ($10.50) we tried salads and burgers – all declared delicious. For quality and ambience diners felt the experience was highly enjoyable.

The next day, my husband, Dan and I, selected the best lakefront restaurant for viewing the splendid scenes of Chicago– the Signature Room (as in John Hancock) on the 95th at the Hancock Building. Go in the daytime for spectacular lakefront vistas to four states: Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois. Looking like dollhouses in the distance one sees the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Museum of Science and Industry and acres of gorgeous parks and marinas. Roof-top swimming pools down below on city buildings were curiously empty on that hot August day, as were the streets. Relatively little traffic was seen in what is the heart of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile of North Michigan Avenue.

Looking like a child’s Lego playland was Navy Pier with its Ferris Wheel (George Washington Ferris’ invention was first seen at Chicago’s Columbian Exposition 1893) and other attractions, including Chicago River tour boats which go through the locks – sort of a mini-Panama Canal cruise.  The locks and river reversal are a marvel of civil engineering. The reversal in 1900 enabled the city to send its sewage down to the Mississippi preserving the lake for drinking water.  Construction of the Ship and Sanitary Canal was the largest earth-moving operation that had been undertaken in North America up to that time. It was also notable for training a generation of engineers, many of whom later worked on the Panama Canal (1904-1914). City and suburban residents get their water from the lake, and enjoy the best-tasting water of any metropolis..  The Signature Room’s special summer $15 buffet had packed the space, which gave it a big city vibe. Beautifully dressed families celebrating graduations kept company with office groups, shoppers, as well as cuddly duos. The room is elegant, yet, casual, with white tablecloths topped with white butcher paper. My lobster bisque ($7) was delicious. I was surprised by the oversized yummy Cobb lobster salad ($22). What thrilled most was the heart-stopping city panorama a foot away through plate glass windows: spectacular! After you enjoy the day sights, go back at night for dinner in this romantic setting.

To all this satin we added a touch of burlap by creating a  cheering section for our Huntington Beach, CA, grandson, Andrew DeCarlo’s State Wars Roller Hockey Championship Tournament in suburban Darien, contiguous to our former home in Downers Grove. When Andrew learned where the games would be played…he said, “Oh, good, the family can come to see me.” And they did. From great-great aunt Gen DeCarlo DeMaio to Chicago Softball Hall of Famer great-uncle Peter Rocco and aunt Jen, to aunts, cousins and friends too numerous to imagine. It was great fun. Andrew, 10, of course, played on the California team (selected in try-outs). The well-organized and well-executed State Wars Roller Hockey Tournament, under Tim McManus’ management, paired teams from nearly 30 US states and Canadian provinces. It was declared “…best roller hockey tournament we’ve participated in…” by  parents Michael and Lorena DeCarlo…sister Michelle loved collecting the state pins each player was given.

Andrew’s Div. 99 A CA team took the Gold Medal and Andrew played on the winning All-Star Team. My lifelong girlfriends fell in love with the little girl on Andrew’s CA team – Tanner Gates, San Diego, Ca. . Her long blond pigtails flew across the rink and even when three players tried to muscle her she fluffed them off. How wonderful girls today have these opportunities in sports. The entire tournament was exciting and greatly enjoyable. Chicago is a city of superlative action…I wouldn’t go so far as the new Mark DeCarlo book, “Fork On The Road: 400 Cities One Stomach,” which says…” if you are bored during the summer in Chicago, slap the loser in the mirror.”   But he has a point. There’s an endless array of festivals, concerts, museum exhibitions all through the year…find your fun at www.cityofchicago.org and make your day.

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Credit: Angela Rocco DeCarlo is a former Chicago journalist. Author Mark DeCarlo is her son. His new book, “A Fork On The Road: 400 Cities One Stomach” is available at bookstores and online and is based on his popular Travel Channel TV show “Taste of America with Mark DeCarlo,”
Copyright, 2010

The all-ages charity event features FREE BBQ, Live Blues Bands, Comedy Acts, Golf, Cooking Demonstrations and More!

Johnsonville Sausage invites you to celebrate this Father’s Day, Sunday June 20th, 2010 at Poppa-Palooza, a one-of-a-kind, all ages music and comedy festival featuring Chicago’s greatest personalities, musicians and comedians at America’s Historic Roundhouse in Aurora, IL. The phenomenal line-up includes legendary WGN radio personality Steve Cochran, WGN-TV’s Mike Toomey, with popular Chicago  comedian Patty Vasquez, and Travel Channel’s Mark DeCarlo alongside the band Old Blues Eyes. Doors open at 5pm and festival continues until 11pm. America’s Historic Roundhouse is located at 205 N. Broadway, Aurora, IL 60505. Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for children under 12. All tickets include two (2) FREE Johnsonville Brats and all Dads will receive a FREE raffle ticket. Tickets can be purchased by calling 630-264-2739 or visiting www.rh34.com .
Poppa-Palooza will include a fun-filled afternoon of golf contests, incredible raffle prices, live music & comedy, cooking demonstrations, competitions, a live auction and surprise guests. This event is geared to gives Dad’s a day off while helping to raise money for what they treasure most: kids. A portion of proceeds will go to benefit www.almosthomekids.org, an organization that enhances the lives of children facing serious and ongoing medical challenges.

“We’ve got an amazing venue here at America’s Roundhouse, great comedians and Old Blues Eyes will rock the Roundhouse! It’s a great way to celebrate Father’s Day in Aurora, helping the Almost Home Kids Foundation. Really, is there anything Dad’s love more than kids?” says Mark DeCarlo, Travel Channel host and leader of the band. “I mean besides golf, beer and BBQ cooked by someone else?”
“I love the Roundhouse and having nothing but fun on Father’s Day!” says Steve Cochran. “Don’t get Dad a tie. Get him tickets to Poppa-Palooza.”

POPPA-PALOOZA OFFICIAL LINE UP
Father’s Day, June 20^th, 2010
Festival 5-11PM. Doors open at 5PM. Show at 7PM.
5 PM  DOORS OPEN

6 PM – 8 PM GOLFSMITH PUTTA-PALOOZA PUTTING CONTEST
Every player gets a $10 Goldsmith gift card. All 10 finalists will get a $25 Golfsmith card & Weber cookbook. Winner gets Grand Prize: A custom Fit set of MacGregor irons + driver + bag.

7 PM – 8:30 PM MUSIC
Blues from Mark DeCarlo and the band Old Blues Eyes  www.oldblueseyes.com
8:30 PM RAFFLE/AUCTION
WGN Radio’s Steve Cochran and Mark DeCarlo host the live auction and award raffle prizes.

COMPETITION: Funniest WGN Listener comedy competition. Winner wins a showcase spot at a future Roundhouse Comedy night
9:00 – 11:00 PM   COMEDY
Mark DeCarlo

Patti Vasquez
Mike Toomey
Steve Cochran

Plus
Poppa-Popular Raffles & Live Auctions
* Fender Strat signed by Buddy Guy donated by Guitar Center
* Weber S-310 Genesis Grill & accessories
* Bed & Breakfast Weekend at the Palmer House Hilton

* Gift Certificate from Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants
* 4 almost Front Row Cubs Tickets from Image Base
* A round of Golf with Steve Cochran at Bollingbrook Golf Club
* Custom-fit set of MacGregor Irons, driver + golf bag from Golfsmith
*Comfort Suites/Roundhouse weekend package
*Best Buy merchandise
*Dinner & show from Buddy Guy’s Legends Bar

* Plus more gifts and surprises

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RECAP

EVENT: 1st Annual Poppa-Palooza 2010, a Father’s Day music and comedy celebration  with BBQ, live music, comedy, games, live auction, raffles, prizes, cooking demonstrations, surprise guests, and great fun for the whole family benefiting AlmostHomeKids.org.

DATE/ TIME: Father’s Day June 20^th 2010 5pm-11pm

LOCATION: America’s Historic Roundhouse -205 N. Broadway, Aurora, IL 60505

TICKETS: Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for children under 12 and ALL TICKETS INCLUDE TWO (2) FREE JOHNSONVILLE BRATS and All Dads get FREE RAFFLE TICKETS. Tickets for the festival are currently available for purchase by calling 630-264-2739 or online at www.rh34.com .

Being on the set is a passion for Klisans, who’s worked with many of the greats, including well-known music video director, Pablo Croce, Rosalyn Sanchez, Alejandro Fernández, Franco de Vita and famous latin band Maná.

In “HABANA EVA,” Klisans is the Producer for the Venezuelan release, slated for July 2010.  Being an active member of the organization “Venezolanos en Hollywood,” Klisans was recommended earlier this year to launch the release of the film, directed by fellow Venezuelan, Fina Torres, who in 1985 won the Cote d’Or prize at the Festival de Cannes for her first feature, “Oriana.” This Cuban-Venezuelan co-production was shot in Havana and features brilliant performances from Prakriti Maduro y Juan Carlos Garcia.

Klisans also worked on film projects directly related to incomparable Orchestra Conductor, Gustavo Dudamel. Through that experience, she has been fortunate enough to surround herself with the likes of Helen Hunt, Andy García and Edgar Ramírez.

All of Klisans’ experiences throughout her years in Los Angeles are focused on film and television projects intended for Venezuelan audiences. Klisans proves once again that although far from home, Venezuela is always in her heart.

What?
Shecky’s is an online and event destination for what’s cool and undiscovered in FASHION, BEAUTY and FUN with the girls.

From emerging designers to great beauty discoveries, delicious cocktails to free giveaways— Shecky’s offers a wonderland for girls to SHOP, SAMPLE & SCORE the world of things girls love.

How?
Shecky’s partners with 1200+ cool companies a year to bring women the latest and greatest in fashion, beauty, entertainment, and more in unique web and event experiences that can be shared with friends.

Why?
Because once in a while, women need a place to escape, where we can indulge, pamper ourselves and have some quality girl time—without the boys!

What’s Shecky’s Mission?
To spoil girls with fashion, beauty, fun and the best girlfriend group experiences.

Shop Fabulous LA!

Date: Wed.-Thu., May 19th-20th, 2010
Time: 5pm-10pm
Place: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
1855 Main St. (Pico Blvd. & Colorado Ave.)

TO PURCHASE TICKETS PLEASE VISIT THIS LINK:

http://girlsnightout.sheckys.com/?rf=LA_TravelingDiva

and choose “Socialista” from the “We’re very curious! How did you hear about this event?” drop down menu on the checkout page and write in my full name, YENI ALVAREZ.

See you there!!!