A Stitching Time: No Coffee, No Company...

A Blog entry from my wife's blog, just another sign of the idiocy event horizon...

People are Rude, no matter how much they smile...

A Stitching Time: No Coffee, No Company...: "Over the past three weeks, I have been working near the town center. In the afternoon, during my lunch hour, I usually go to Rite Aid, pick ..."

CW Gossip Girls Question

Watch Gossip Girls to Find out

Monday November 29th at 9:00 / 8:00 Central on CW

Christmas is around the corner!!

Norman Douglas once said "You can tell the ideals of a nation by its advertisements." Besides the word "Sale" you might have noticed words like open extended holiday hours, or open 24 hours till Christmas. With the relentless drive to commercialize nearly every holiday our nation's leaders has set aside to honor and or commemorate, it makes one wonder how much of ourselves we have given up to make a buck?

Holidays were created for a reason. To honor our war heroes, our founding fathers or great presidents, to celebrate the birth of our nation or to simply give thanks for all that we have. Holidays where set aside so families and friends can get together and celebrate these days. Holiday sales are nothing new nor are they unique to the United States. Most were created to take advantage of people being off of from work and able to spend the day shopping. What we are watching unfold today is different story. Today over 70% of Americans are in the service or retail sector and more and more people are being forced to work on these holidays.

Years past, there were "Blue Laws" in effect. Legislative attempts to enact laws based solely on morality, usually that of Christians. Stores that didn't meet certain criteria were not allowed to be open on Holidays or on days of worship. Some of these laws even predate the American Revolution by nearly hundred years. "In 1677, the General Assembly of East New Jersey banned the "singing of vain songs or tunes" on Sabbath." was one such law written, sorry Bon Jovi. This of course was a joke and many of these laws are now openly violated, are never enforced and in most cases have been stricken down by the courts.

In the 1970s most retail stores were closed on Sundays and holidays, this ended in by the 1980's with the exception of Christmas and Thanksgiving. Stores that did open paid their workers double time or time and a half. This however began to give way in the 1990s when only full time employees were given these benefits and with only on a handful of holidays. Today even that has given way to the stores not only being open on holidays but with extended hours no less and the workers are compensated with only their regular hourly wages. Sears and Old Navy are going to open on Thanksgiving Day so now it seems like the entire country is working for that horrible 1-800 lawyer guy that you can call at midnight on New Year's Eve. Beyond a doubt what amazes me is that the mass media and throngs of people always protest the so called "War on Christmas" yet not a word is spoken about stores being open on holidays or people being forced to work on them. It is truly sad how easily we sell our moral values or easily misplace them.

The really sad part about this is not only are we expected to work during holidays but even during state of emergencies. Blizzard warnings, tropical storm or hurricane warnings are no longer accepted excuses to miss work. After Hurricane Katrina made landfall into New Orleans reports surfaced of people being told to show up for work at hotels, restaurants and other retail establishments even though they were in an area under mandatory evacuation. I personally know of one chain ice-cream store in my area (Coldstone) that would not allow the teenage staff to close till 11pm during a blizzard because it would violate the franchise agreement, even though it violated state law!

What would it take to stop this never ending quest to ensure profits? Do we really have to begin to risk our own lives or the lives of our children to ensure Wall Street earnings? Ultimately this is class warfare. When the lowest paid workers are forced to work holidays, weekends, or even during natural disasters while the shareholders, CEOs, and upper management sit home enjoying their family's warmth and comfort. When we as a people have little or no regard for the safety or well being of others, when we have passively bestowed approval upon greed even when it endangers our core values as a nation let alone our very own lives, we have surrendered the moral high ground we once held as a nation not to a mighty foe or one superior to ourselves but simply for a quick buck, one buck that we will probably never even get to see.

Free Advertising Announcement

OK, I have an Early Christmas present for you all, if you have a Business, Winery, Restaurant, or Start-up and you want 1 month of free advertising, send a request to me at my Blog email groovestudio1@aol.com and I will post info about your business and / or events for 1 month for free!( first 20 get picked)

A Holiday Wish For You

 

To all of you in the Blogosphere, to friends and family, to all of you young and old, may you have a Happy Thanksgiving, and a wonderful holiday season.

Take time to remember loved ones both lost and found, and do 1 random act of kindness per day, if possible. Be charitable and kind, wise and playful, but above all be happy.

Technorati Tags: Wish,Blogosphere,Take,Holiday,Happy,kind,dream

DRESS PROFESSIONALLY, GOOD TIPS

It seems many haven't gotten the memo on dressing for job interviews or meeting clients once hired. Dressing to impress is one thing, dressing to stay employed is something completely different. Many young people coming out of college are imprinted with fashion labels, statement clothing or just don't care about "what people think" that they attitude themselves back to Mom and Pops house. Especially now a days, fashion can work to your advantage. Look below at some refresher ideas.

Announcing our Holiday Contest

 

Starting November 30^th, 2010 to December 13^th, 2010 we will be having our Holliday Designer Contest, All new followers will be entered to receive a prize (to be announced later) for each entry, follow us at http://www.groovestudio1.blogspot.com or http://www.groovestudio1.tumblr.com and enter as often as you like, more information to be posted as we get near to the start date.

Rules:

Must be 18 or older and have valid proof of identification. Must follow our sites as a registered follower and enter at least once per week to be eligible.

Post an Original Fashion design, which may include pictures or videos, must be Original and you must be an independent new designer or novice, no professional designers please. Fashion design may be part of or complete outfit, accessory or interior design piece.

Post your design on our blogger or tumblr site - http://www.groovestudio1.blogspot.com or http://www.groovestudio1.tumblr.com with information about said design. Submissions may be uploaded at http://groovestudio1.tumblr.com/submit and must follow our submission guidelines, pictures and videos may be submitted to groovestudio1@aol.com with the words “Holliday Contest Submission” in the subject line.

Entry to contest will begin November 30th, 2010 and run to December 13th, 2010, early submission will not be declined, but may not be posted until date starts. Entries are voted on and most votes wins contest. Prize will be posted on date contest begins.

Check back for more details.

Nederlander & ASPB Present…INTERPOL

PLUS SPECIAL GUEST
SCHOOL OF SEVEN BELLS

Friday, February 4th • 8:00 PM
UC SANTA BARBARA EVENTS CENTER

Critically acclaimed, NYC indie-rockers Interpol will perform at the UC Santa Barbara Events Center on Friday, February 4th in support of their latest release, the self-titled Interpol. School of Seven Bells (Benjamin Curtis of Secret Machines & Alejandra Deheza of On!Air!Library!) will open the show. Tickets go on sale Friday, November 19 at 10 AM.

Interpol hit the national scene with 2002’s Turn on the Bright Lights” and have been seducing ears ever since with their richly atmospheric music. Their fiercely awesome sound, combined with striking visual presentation, has taken Interpol from small East Village bars to arenas worldwide, without losing the tension and complexity that have made them such an enigmatic, rewarding band.

In September 2010, Matador Records released Interpol’s fourth studio album, the self-titled Interpol. From the highly melodic “Barricade” and “Lights” through the snarling “Memory Serves” and the extraordinary triptych of connected tracks that close the album, Interpol have never made work this emotionally resonant or packed with crescendos. Mixer Alan Moulder has brought the rhythm section back to the fore, anchoring a thicket of orchestral sound that brings to mind touchstones from black metal to ‘70s art rock, but always remains identifiably Interpol. Hypnotic, bizarre, always indelible, Interpol is the band’s magnum opus.

Don’t miss your chance to see Interpol perform at the UC Santa Barbra Events Center on Friday, February 4th. Tickets purchased in advance are $33, plus applicable service charges. Tickets at the door will be $38, plus applicable service charges.

Tickets On Sale Friday, November 19 at 10 AM!
Tickets available on campus and at all Ticketmaster outlets including: The Arlington Theatre
To charge by phone please call, 800-745-3000. Order online at www.ticketmaster.com

DesignerSocial

DesignerSocial A Blog from Designer Insiders, Nice Resource for information.

The official blog of

A group of elite fashion insiders who got together to create an online showroom and blog featuring our favorite new handbag and accessory designers for the season, as well as a super edited vintage and pre-owned luxury goods marketplace. Our members hold or have held positions at Prada, Gucci, Armani, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, Dolce & Gabanna, Vogue, Elle, Glamour, W, Style.com, Lucky, Marie Claire and InStyle.

Obsessed with Shoes- Fashion or style?

Shoes, shoes shoes, oh my, just saying it gets me excited. So what is our fascination, Love, relationship with shoes? Why are people willing to spend upwards of $1000 for a single pair that cost about $10 to make?

I believe in fairy tales. I think fairy tales started the whole thing. Cinderellas' shoe would find her Prince ( I wonder what Kate Middleton is wearing?) And the Ruby red slippers could bring Dorothy home. ( but couldn't save the dead Witch, that part never made sense to me.)
Romance with shoes is part believing in fairy tales and part joining into fashion. I mean really, no one would choose to wear a 5 inch platform with a 1.5 toe bed. Its thinking taller is better, fancy is prettier and hot legs attract Princes.( That part might be true)

I am very guilty of drooling and shoe gawking. Shoes can be art, and do make statements. Wearing sneakers to an award show? You must be a Rocker or a Rapper. Wearing 4 inch heels to a dinner party? You must be under 5'3 or trolling for a naughty good time.

There is a great dichotomy in the world of shoe fashion; to spend or not to spend, to be moral, green, ethical of just be indulgent. As i have said before, materials matter. luxurious leathers, good contstruction and even a bit of foot science is worth a good price. But most shoes are made by machines in factories over in Asia using the cheapest possible methods and materials. Steve Madden brands conjure up thoughts of sexy, classic and wearable ( mostly). Jimmy Choo, produces his shoes in his hometown country Malaysia, think his countrymen can wear them? All huge branded names produce cheap shoes with their logos as a way of making mad money around what they were really famous for; Coach makes tennies ( sneakers) and still makes a damn good leather bag. But one is priced a skew to the production cost to offset the loss of the other.

My feet long to be enrobed in sexy sky high boots up to my thighs like when I was 20, but age and lots of pavement pounding has taken its toll. For now, I am a wedge girl. Safe, sophisticated and gives my old waitress ankles a little shape. Would I pay big money for a fancy wedge? Nah, Im sure y'all have samples for me in size 9 ;)

Review: Rooney’s Irish Pub

The Pot of Gold at the End of the Rainbow is in Orcutt, and it is a Treasure to be Sure.

 

Rooney’s Irish Pub and Restaurant

241 South Broadway Street

Old Town Orcutt, CA

805-934-3777

www.rooneysirishpub.net

Rooney’s Irish pub in Old Town Orcutt, California is a true vision of what an Irish Pub should be. The restaurant has been open for only 4 months and the building is a new construction, but inside is a warmth and comfort that is timeless. The décor is exactly what you would find in the traditional Irish Pub, colors and murals depicting the emerald Isles, pastoral sceneries, quality woodwork and an attentive, friendly staff. The customer is greeted with a smile and a genuine rustic flare. The pub, well known in town already, is also experiencing a notoriety that brings people from several miles away in both the north and south counties.

For thirty years it’s been Tim Rooney’s dream to open an Irish Pub -- ever since he and his college roommate had one in their dorm room ( a very interesting story, ask him and he’ll tell you). Today that dream has been realized in a very grand way. Mr. Rooney, a longtime resident of the Central Coast with a family heritage here decided that now was the time to create a family friendly establishment that would serve as a central social spot that would be the focus of the community. I would also like to tell you that Rooney’s does provide a service that I have never seen before, for the client that have enjoyed the spirits “a wee bit much”, Rooney’s provides free taxi transportation home, no matter how far “I want them to get home safe” said the proprietor Tim Rooney, “once they come through the door, they’re family, and that’s worth everything”

The restaurant has an open atmosphere that can serve the social set, family dining and large groups. They do large parties and catering for events. Architecturally brilliant, there is ample room for dining in a cozy style as well as feeling you have privacy. The bar area stretches the length of one wall and wraps around into the front dining room, there are several varieties on tap, as well as imports and a large selection in the bar. The menu has traditional Irish selections as well as “Fusion” and American-styled dishes. The desire of the day is customer satisfaction, their philosophy is a slogan that is on the menu and in their hearts “A cabin with plenty of food is better than a hungry castle”.

The concept for the menu was to create great combinations at affordable prices, but not sacrifice quality for cost efficiency. At Rooney’s, you get an excellent fine dining experience without having to break your budget. In a few months, Rooney’s Irish pub will have the first batch of their own beer, created in the Beer Brewery located on the premises. The Pub will be working towards brewing several varieties and will be looking to bottle and sell their fine beers throughout California.

I had the privilege to try several items on the menu, and they were all wonderful. What stands out most is their take on the traditional “Shepard’s Pie”, staple of any Irish Pub of merit. I spoke with the chef, Anthony Endy, a master chef whom has many years of creative experience, describe it as “deconstructed” – “I enhanced all the elements and provide the customer an opportunity to enjoy the dish both visually and in extraordinary taste”.

The Shepard’s pie was “inside out”, not a deep dish with ground meat and vegetables hidden under potato, but an open plate. The dish was cooked to perfection, lovingly assembled with finely “ribbon” shaved carrots, peas and roasted onion surrounding a tremendous piece of Angus Short Rib. Brazed to perfection, the meat was cooked to a point where there was no need for cutting; it simply melted away under the knife. The potatoes were mashed and seasoned to perfection, serving as a base to the meat. This interpretation of a “classic” Irish staple meal is both “home-style” and refined, giving the patron the best of both.

I would strongly encourage you to stop in at Rooney’s Irish Pub, whether for a meal with family or a pint with a pal, it would do your heart and soul good. At Rooney’s Irish Pub, there is a phrase “There are no strangers at Rooney’s, only friends you have never met”, well go make some new friends at Rooney’s; you’ll be smiling, with newfound “Irish Eyes”.

 

Technorati Tags: Rooney's Irish Pub,Food,Dining,Fine Dining,Rustic,Charm,Style,Fresh,Quality

Fashion Ranger: I like this look, from top to toe. The handbag is ...

Fashion Ranger: I like this look, from top to toe. The handbag is ...

Nice photos of daily look, natural style in it's element, very nice blog

THE VAMPIRE DIARIES” WEEK-LONG MARATHON

BEGINS MONDAY, DEC. 13

The CW to Rebroadcast the First 10 Episodes from the Sophomore Season,

Airing Two Episodes Each Night (8:00-10:00p.m. ET/PT) From

Monday, Dec. 13 through Friday, Dec. 17

November 4, 2010 (Burbank, CA) ─ The CW Network today announced plans for a special marathon week featuring The Vampire Diaries, starting on Monday, December 13. For the second year in a row, this week-long event offers fans the opportunity to catch up with season two of The Vampire Diaries and allows the uninitiated the chance to get into one of TV’s breakout hits.

Airing two episodes each night from Monday, Dec. 13 through Friday, Dec. 17 (8:00-10:00p.m. ET/PT), The CW will rebroadcast the first 10 episodes of the second season of its addictive hit The Vampire Diaries across its entire primetime schedule that week, beginning with this season’s explosive premiere. The Vampire Diaries is The CW’s most-watched and highest-rated series among adults 18-34 this season.

The Vampire Diaries is the story of two vampire brothers obsessed with the same beautiful girl, and battling to control the fate of an entire town. During season one, Stefan (Paul Wesley, “Fallen”) and Damon Salvatore (Ian Somerhalder, “Lost”), returned to their hometown of Mystic Falls, Virginia, for very different reasons − Stefan was determined to get to know Elena Gilbert (Nina Dobrev, the upcoming film, “The Killing Game”), who bears a striking resemblance to Katherine Pierce, the beautiful but ruthless vampire the brothers knew and loved in 1864, while Damon was intent on releasing Katherine from the tomb where he believed she was trapped by a witch’s spell all those years ago. In season two, the appearance of the villainous Katherine in Mystic Falls has thrown a wrench into the love triangle between Stefan, Elena and Damon, and the other residents of Mystic Falls must choose sides as they fall victim to a new breed of danger.

Based on the series of books by L. J. Smith, The Vampire Diaries is from Bonanza Productions Inc., Outerbanks Entertainment and Alloy Entertainment in association with Warner Bros. Television and CBS Television Studios with executive producers Kevin Williamson (“Scream,” “Dawson’s Creek”), Julie Plec (“Kyle XY,” “Wasteland”), Leslie Morgenstein (“Gossip Girl,” “Private”) and Bob Levy (“Gossip Girl,” “Privileged”).

CW Television Teaser Post

 

Each week we will post the upcoming weeks CW TV Episode “To Watch” List

Follow this teaser list to see what is going to happen on your favorite CW Shows.

Thursday, November 11

THE VAMPIRE DIARIES — “Katerina”

(8:00-9:00 p.m.)

Katherine’s (Nina Dobrev) past is finally revealed when Elena (also played by Nina Dobrev) puts herself in a dangerous position as she searches for the truth about what her own future may hold.

NIKITA — “One Way”

(9:00-10:00 p.m.)

Nikita (Maggie Q) and Michael (Shane West) temporarily team-up to kill a terrorist who murdered Michael’s family many years ago.

Friday, November 12

SMALLVILLE — “Abandoned”

(8:00-9:00 p.m.)

TERI HATCHER GUEST STARS AS ELLA LANE — Lois (Erica Durance) finds a video made for her by her mother, Ella Lane (Hatcher), before she died. After watching the tape, Lois makes a drastic decision about her relationship with Clark (Tom Welling) that takes her to the Fortress, where she comes face to face with Jor-El and Lara.

SUPERNATURAL — “All Dogs Go To Heaven”

(9:00-10:00 p.m.)

Dean (Jensen Ackles) and Sam (Jared Padalecki) investigate what seems to be a werewolf killing but turns out to be a skinwalker (guest star Andrew Rothenberg) posing as a family dog who is taking revenge on his owner’s enemies.

Monday, November 15

90210 — “They’re Playing Her Song”

(8:00-9:00 p.m.)

Teddy (Trevor Donovan) begins to feel more comfortable in his own skin and decides to visit a bar in West Hollywood where he soon realizes he forgot his wallet and is forced to turn to Ian (guest star Kyle Riabko) for help.

GOSSIP GIRL — “The Witches of Bushwick”

(9:00-10:00 p.m.)

Chuck (Ed Westwick) hosts a “Saints and Sinners” masquerade party at the Empire Hotel. At the party, Dan (Penn Badgley) and Nate (Chace Crawford) don’t know what to make of Serena’s (Blake Lively) strange behavior and mixed messages.

Tuesday, November 16

ONE TREE HILL — “Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace”

(8:00-9:00 p.m.)

IT’S THANKSGIVING IN TREE HILL / BETHANY JOY GALEOTTI DIRECTS THE EPISODE — The gang gathers at Nathan (James Lafferty) and Haley’s (Bethany Joy Galeotti) to spend Thanksgiving with friends and family.

LIFE UNEXPECTED — “Homecoming Crashed”

(9:00-10:00 p.m.)

EMMA CAULFIELD (“BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER”) AND KRISTA ALLEN (“PARENTHOOD”) GUEST STAR — Baze (Kristoffer Polaha) and Emma (guest star Emma Caulfield) attempt to sign a high-profile client, Candy (guest star Krista Allen), who only has eyes for Baze. Lux (Britt Robertson) goes to her homecoming dance hoping to see Eric (guest star Shaun Sipos) but the evening takes an ugly turn for the worse.

Wednesday, November 17

AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL — “Franca Sozzani”

(8:00-9:00 p.m.)

The final four girls put their personality to the test when they meet one-on-one with Vogue Italia’s editor-in-chief, Franca Sozzani.

HELLCATS — “Pledging My Love”

(9:00-10:00 p.m.)

DEBBIE ALLEN DIRECTS — A compromising picture of Alice (Heather Hemmens) is sent around school, humiliating her. Lewis (Robbie Jones) feels bad for Alice and agrees to help her find the culprit. The two discover Damian (guest star Josh Emerson), a football player, is the culprit and she vows revenge and plans to out him after she finds out he is gay. Red (Jeff Hephner) and Vanessa (Sharon Leal) hear of her plan and set out to stop her before she does something she will regret.

Friday, November 19

SMALLVILLE — “Patriot”

(8:00-9:00 p.m.)

DC COMICS CHARACTER AQUAMAN RETURNS WITH HIS WIFE MERA; TOM WELLING DIRECTS AND MICHAL HOGAN (“BATTLESTAR GALACTICA”) GUEST STARS AS COL SLADE. — In an effort to protect the rest of the team, Oliver (Justin Hartley) decides to register for the Vigilante Registration Act to see what the government plans to do with the new law. As he suspected, it was a trap to lure superheroes to an undisclosed location where he is confined to a jail and subjected to a battery of brutal tests under the supervision of Col. Slade (guest star Michael Hogan, “Battlestar Galactica”).

SUPERNATURAL — “Clap Your Hands If You Believe”

(9:00-10:00 p.m.)

FAIRIES! — While Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) are investigating a UFO sighting, Dean is abducted from a crop circle. However, when he awakens, he discovers he isn’t dealing with aliens, but fairies! Unfortunately, only Dean can see the fairy that keeps attacking him which makes tracing and stopping them difficult.

 

Technorati Tags: CW Shows,Television,Vampires,Smallville,Supernatural,Hellcats,One Tree Hill,Life Unexpected,Gosip Girl,90210,Nikita

Santa Barbara Bowl’s Glen Renamed “Jerry Garcia Glen” in Memory of Rock Icon

Generous Gift of $1,000,000 from Brittingham Family Foundation includes a unique statue of Jerry Garcia’s hand.

Santa Barbara, California – The Board of Directors of the Santa Barbara Bowl Foundation is pleased to announce a major gift of $1,000,000 from the Brittingham Family Foundation to rename the beautiful wooded entry area to the Bowl the Jerry Garcia Glen in memory of the legendary member of the Grateful Dead.

This generous gift helped renovate and reinvigorate the Glen, including native plantings indigenous to Santa Barbara that are compatible with the historic Pacific Oak trees, a new winding pathway to the concessions plaza, enhanced natural creek bed, gentle lighting and a spacious reception area. One additional element installed in the Glen is a statue of Jerry Garcia’s hand. Sitting atop one of the Bowl’s signature sandstone boulders, this statue is destined to become another historic symbol at this unique venue.

“The Santa Barbara Bowl is a centerpiece of life not only in Santa Barbara but in my family,” said Scott Brittingham, Chairman of the Bowl’s American Classic Campaign. “And for many of us, Jerry Garcia symbolizes an important part of our personal history; our coming of age. My family and I are so privileged to
be able to make this gift and to be able to do it in memory of one of the most treasured icons of rock ‘n roll in America and at the Santa Barbara Bowl makes it even more special… and fun.”

“We are deeply touched by the generosity of the Brittingham Family to the American Classic Campaign,”
says Paul Dore, Board President. “Their commitment to the Santa Barbara Bowl as volunteers and philanthropists is extraordinary. We are so grateful for their largesse which has transformed The Glen into a very special space for patrons to enjoy.”

In other campaign news, The Overlook, an entirely new plaza high above the Bowl, has officially opened as a comfortable pre- and mid-concert gathering spot for patrons. Phase 1 of The Overlook, the infrastructure and reinforcement to the hillside, includes a new spotlight platform and building, and a new outlook area with sweeping ocean views. Phase II of the Overlook will include permanent restrooms and upgraded concessions.

Groundbreaking for Phase II has not yet been scheduled. With $25 million in construction completed since 1999, including improved artist amenities and world-class stage housing: The Pavilion, all future improvements focus on audience comfort, experience, and safety. Nestled in the hillsides above Santa Barbara, the Bowl is a premier example of 1930s WPA outdoor Craftsman-style architecture and melds decades of music and vistas in ways no other open-air venue in America can. In 1995, the Bowl Foundation created a comprehensive, long-range restoration and renovation Master Plan and by 2010, over $29 mm had been contributed by the community for significant improvements to Santa Barbara's beloved Bowl. Improvements designed to protect the venue's early 20th century grace while placing it firmly on 21st century underpinnings will continue during off seasons through 2014.

The Bowl Foundation has opportunities to support the American Classic Campaign for all levels of interest.

• Major Gifts -- For information on major gifts including donor benefit programs, please contact our
development office at fundraising@sbbowl.com or (805) 308-9782

• Name-A-Seat (www.name-a-seat.com)
Commemorate, celebrate and honor friends, family, and favorite moments at Santa Barbara's beloved Bowl with a small plaque and to share your seat's story on the Bowl's community website.

• Friend of the Bowl (www.friendofthebowl.com) Support your favorite outdoor music venue and at the same time receive great perks and premiums that benefit the Bowl’s fundraising priorities in any given year.

For more information on the American Classic Campaign for the renovation and restoration of the Santa Barbara Bowl, please contact Beth Dolinsek Skidmore, Development Director, at (805) 308-9782 or
fundraising@sbbowl.com.

Entertainment Review

An Evening with Dr. Drew Pinsky at the Arlington Theatre in Santa Barbara

Sponsored by New Noise Santa Barbara

The dimly lit theatre seemed to come alive when Dr. Drew Pinsky, noted doctor and host of “Love Lines” and “Celebrity Rehab” took the stage. The rousing applause of the audience made him blush and he stood patiently waiting for it to fade, which seemed to take forever. Dr. Drew is known for his medical work and his ability to sincerely and thoughtfully help people with their problems and confront their inner demons, and for this the audience was enamored with him and wanted to hear what he had to say. Author of “Cracked” and “The Mirror Effect”, his new book dealing with celebrity immorality and its effects on society, stood on the stage, smiling out at the fully packed house. With witty repose and humorous candor, he offered his philosophies on disease and addiction, telling all that there was a growing epidemic that needs to be addressed.

For more than 25 years, Dr. Drew has been working to help the individual, to support, give hope and nurture those that would be left by the side of the road. Through his career, the good doctor found that treatment of the disease that is addiction requires not just counseling, but consistent support and a self-discipline that must be taught, sometimes one day at a time. People often think that addiction can be cured, in actuality, it can only be coped with, and it is an illness that can stay with a person indefinitely. Addiction is also not confined to the substance abuser, but to everyone they connect with, and so on and so on, it can be vicious and rampant, but it can be stopped and managed with the best medicine there is, compassion.

Dr. Drew asked for the lights to be raised and addressed everyone, some with direct eye contact. He announced that there would be question and answer moments. We could “ask anything” and if some wanted, he could address some issues after the show. The doctor was in the house and in charge, giving some clarity to confusion. People took advantage of this by openly asking questions, exposing their secrets, often coming to tears. Dr. Drew, as if reaching from across the theatre spoke kindly, but firmly, to each and every person as if in private council, showing a mercy that lifted everyone in the house.

Dr. Drew covered the concepts of physical and psychological addiction as biological; it attacks the body and the mind. He stated that the need for a “fix” can be torment, and without a caring and supportive group, it can overcome the strongest of people. Whether it is drugs, alcohol, food or sex, addictions start with key factors that are often missed or even unknown, even to the addict, until counseling and therapy root out the cause and begin the treatment process. Dr. Drew approached the edge of the stage and looked out at the audience and stated “Only by following the patient through the treatment process, from start to maturity, can the healing process begin”. It was at that moment that there was a rouse of applause, and one would know there were people with some experience in the audience, from both sides of the fence.

The audience wanted more and more of his words of wisdom, information and knowledge that could prove as road markers to a path of enlightenment and healing. Everyone in the audience had questions, and he tried to address all of them, giving us a way to defend ourselves in the war against self-destructive behavior. Issues like abandonment, sexual abuse, trauma and a gambit of other “Key Causes” were covered, and issues that affected everyone, some that can be coped with, and some that could not. Looking around I saw people that were nodding, some seemed shocked at what they heard, some were teary eyed, and either in compassion or concern and questioned to themselves, “Do I have his in my life?” I am sure that some thought this. Dr. Drew is trying to make us all change our perception of addictive nature, disease and treatment, everyone walked away from this event with the knowledge that we can each overcome our problems and together we can heal.

“Masking trauma does not work, if somebody has an active addiction and is exposed to opiates or situations of abuse, their lives are in danger. The reason people do this to themselves is the sense of despair and hopelessness, they want out, it is up to all of us to bring them back IN”- Dr. Drew

 

 

Dr. Drew Pinsky is service Director of the Chemical dependency Program / residential Treatment Center at Las Encinas Hospital in Pasadena, California. His latest book “The Mirror Effect – how Celebrity Narcissism is Seducing America” written with Dr. S. Mark Young, published by Harper Press, is available in your local bookstore.

 

Technorati Tags: Review,Drew,Pinsky,Love,Lines,Rehab,applause,audience,demons,Author,Mirror,Effect,candor,philosophies,disease,addiction,treatment,self,People,person,substance,abuser,medicine,compassion,moments,advantage,secrets,council,mercy,concepts,Whether,drugs,alcohol,food,addictions,factors,addict,therapy,moment,wisdom,information,knowledge,markers,path,enlightenment,behavior,Issues,abandonment,trauma,gambit,Causes,situations,danger

Design Trends

Old is New Again, Antiques in the Modern Home

Interior design has shown us everything from quality comfort to “what do I do with this?” it’s really up to the habitant’s desire. Antiques have made yet another comeback in interior design, flea market treasures and thrift store finds have sparked interest in furniture refurbishment and, due to the economy, with the right amount of searching, viable antique furniture can be found at little cost. The internet has given substantial offering of distributors and shops around the world that can supply pretty much anything, from whole units to authentic or re-pro parts. In central California, the art of antique hunting is still very much alive, from the home owner to the interior designer, bargain hunting and “antiquing” is very much the course and weekends are filled with buying trips up and down the coast.

Thrift stores hold the best value as far as finding “cheap” furniture and accessories. Quality is questionable due to mishandling and some overpricing when a store is looking at old items thinking they are worth more than they are, but if you go back a day or two later, the price always drops.

Swap meets and flea markets, weekend endeavors for bargain hunters. One can find genuine antiques of great quality and price, but the hazard here is there is no delivery. When searching, if you don’t have a truck, there are local delivery services that have Saturday and Sunday hours, ask if for a couple of extra bucks if they will deliver or hold for pick up. I advise you get receipts and take pictures prior deliver to protect you in case of incident, and make sure that any delivery service is insured for damages.

Estate sales are great, but you bid on lots and items with only a short time to review or inspect. There are some “bidders” that together, work to discourage other bids, to make sure they get it at a lowest price possible. This practice is discouraged and at most estate sales locations, forbidden, but it is hard to prove, if you like auctions this is fun and if you don’t win the bid, you don’t pay anything, so no harm no foul, unless you had your heart set on the item in question.

I do think that the best advice I could offer is to go to an Antique Mall, these are where several different vendors are located under one roof, often run by a shopper owner who is well versed in Antiques and can offer several options without leading you towards higher prices, if possible they can contact the consigner and ask if they will accept a lower bid.

One such location is The Antique Mall in Santa Maria, California; this unique shop is centrally located with front and back entrances large enough to move furniture in and out. They work with a “Buy-Sell-Trade” service structure and have Furniture Care products and replacement parts on location. The owners Ray and Judy Jilderda have been in business for over 24 years and take buying trips it more distant locations to bring product to their store. The business has regular hours and the owner is more concerned with customer satisfaction than price point. Ray is well known for his knowledge of Antiques and is the only antique clock repair service in the area, specializing in shelf and wall grandfather clocks, and he makes house calls.

I spoke with Ray Jilderda, a long time Santa Maria resident, about his store and how he serves the community. I asked about his services, his customers and about the trade in general.

“I have some customers that come to find a bargain, but most are really looking for the right item at the right price. When looking at antiques, the appeal and quality considerations are always first. Is it in great shape, or does it need repair, is it sturdy or not and will it last. The physical ascetics of the piece must fit in or fulfill the need of the buyer; first impression is everything in antique purchasing. There are a variety of customers with needs that are sometimes hard to meet, so I recommend other locations that I would buy at, I try to steer them in the right direction. We try to offer a pleasant shopping experience and a chance to find that something special for their home. About the competition, well I don’t think of them as a bad thing, variety is what makes this business fun, but there are some stores that entertain the international market or the trade and have higher prices. These “Museum” stores have things out of the price range of most buyers and often sit around waiting for a wealthier buyer to come along. One thing I would like to add is we don’t deal in reproductions at this location, only authentic antiques, but there are some store that would pass of the fake as authentic, so look twice and always ask questions, reproductions may be less expensive, but have no historic value, so if you want the real thing, don’t settle for less.”

The Antique Mall can be reached at 805-922-6464, they do not have a website or email at this time, I asked why, Ray said “stores with computers have staff that are too busy with the computer to do their job; we meet every customer with a smile and actually want to see them”. I would say that this may be an “Antiquated” concept, but it is a thought that fits in this store just right.

Joseph Timmons

Groove Studio Magazine

 

Technorati Tags: designer,Antiques,Antique,Bid,Bargain,buy,style,original,reproduction,refurbish,clocks,best,shopping

Street Gents : Fashion Designer Michael Ward

Street Gents : Fashion Designer Michael Ward

Fashion is discovered on the Streets of our cities, the people make the look, the look enhances the people. High looks on the backdrop of a living city, very good pics of style

Men's Spring Fasihon; Paris, Milan and You

From half way across the globe in some other country which speaks a language you may not understand, a little old lady is sewing a suit just for you. Someone you never met is designing and deciding what you should wear. Thank goodness.

From my perspective I have enough to worry about, so show me whats out there, and I will find it in my price range, size range and be done with it. I usually purchase an entire outfit at once. Being fashion conscious and a bit lazy I prefer to know all parts can go together and dress quickly.

lets take a peek at what to shoot for this spring.
Photo above

John Varvatos did not stray from his formula for success: rock and roll, with a healthy dash of sophistication. He treated the fabric for the season — linen — by making it worn and dusty, with gray Glen Plaid being the signature. ( I think he is a Mick Jagger fan ).

Dunhill made a very strong show in Paris Men's Fashion week. Light wools and colors, easy to wear patterns and less structured easy to wear. From parties to weddings to work related events, these suits will be comfy and impressive.

Here is a little eye candy from Milan thanks to FT. If luxury brands are out of reach, go for color and shapes instead of price tags, fashion is about looking well suited.

15 Seconds of Fame Update

YOUR 15 SECONDS OF FAME? ARCH ROCK FISH
TO PICK TV CONTESTANT – THIS SATURDAY

Local “star” search for Santa Barbara’s  Restaurant’s newest TV Ad

SANTA BARBARA (November 3, 2010) – If you’ve ever wanted to star in your own TV commercial, this Saturday may be your big break into show-biz. Santa Barbara’s newest restaurant Arch Rock Fish will be having a ‘15 Seconds of Fame!’ contest to find a TV star for an upcoming TV ad. “This could be the start of a new TV career for some of our local talent here in Santa Barbara.” said Scott Leibfried, Executive Chef and Arch Rock Fish partner.

Leibfried is himself a well known TV Celebrity Chef on the FOX Network show “Hell’s Kitchen” and is partners in Arch Rock Fish with veteran restaurateurs Jeremiah Higgins & Mike Anderson, plus former pro Galaxy soccer player-turned-coach Cobi Jones.

Auditions for Arch Rock Fish restaurant’s first annual ‘15 Seconds of Fame!’ contest will be this Saturday at 11:00 AM for ‘best performance in a TV ad’ determined by a panel of special guest judges John Palminteri of KEYT-TV; Catherine Remak, K-LITE radio personality; and Santa Barbara Daily Sound publisher Jeramy Gordon.

The judges will pick the winning TV star to appear in the Arch Rock Fish ‘15 Seconds of Fame!’ TV ads. “Everyone’s invited to audition, eleven AM sharp this Saturday… we hope to find one of Santa Barbara’s talented undiscovered TV stars.” said Mike Anderson, Mixologist and Arch Rock Fish partner. “Come on down for the auditions and enjoy my delicious ‘November Sky’ martini mix of rum and fresh watermelon juice.” said Anderson.

The ‘15 Seconds of Fame!’ will be broadcast on several area TV channels. Auditions will be this Saturday, November 6, at Arch Rock Fish, 608 Anacapa Street, at 11:00 AM. “It’ll be great seeing how well the contestants do, and I can’t wait to see the videos.” said Liebfried.

“Contestants are invited to come as you are, come as yourself, come as a group, or even dress up as an Arch Rock Fish!” said Leibfried.

The ‘Arch Rock’ name comes from the uniquely shaped rock at Anacapa Island, the icon and gateway to the Santa Barbara Channel Islands. Arch Rock Fish is located at 608 Anacapa Street.

Reservations call (805) 845-2800 or for more information visit www.archrockfish.com, go to www.facebook.com/ArchRockFish or www.twitter.com/archrockfish.

 

Technorati Tags: Seconds,Fame,Update,Local,Santa,Barbara,restaurant,Arch,Rock,Fish,talent,Scott,Executive,Chef,Network,Hell,Kitchen,veteran,Jeremiah,Higgins,Mike,Anderson,Galaxy,Cobi,Jones,Auditions,performance,panel,guest,John,Palminteri,KEYT,Catherine,Remak,LITE,radio,Sound,publisher,Jeramy,Gordon,Mixologist,juice

Spread the Word about Groove Studio One

Groove Studio One is taking off; we are building popularity every day.

As of today, November 3, 2010, we have: 179 followers on Twitter and our pages have been visited over 1K times in the past 30 days ( including unique visitors and repeated visits), But we can always use more.

Please suggest us to all of your friends on Facebook and the web.

http://www.groovestudio1.blogspot.com

CW Television Teaser Post

 

CW Television Teaser Post

Each week we will post the upcoming weeks CW TV Episode “To Watch” List

Follow this teaser list to see what is going to happen on your favorite CW Shows.

Thursday, November 4

THE VAMPIRE DIARIES — “Rose”

(8:00-9:00 p.m.)

Stefan (Paul Wesley) and Damon (Ian Somerhalder) come to Elena’s assistance and, in the process, learn surprising new information about people, vampires and events in the distant past.

NIKITA— “Phoenix”

(9:00-10:00 p.m.)

Nikita exposes a political sex scandal when Division sends Thom (Ashton Holmes) to eliminate Anna (guest star Rayisa Kondracki, “The Bridge”), a woman who was having a secret affair with a U.S. Senator (guest star Spencer Garrett, “Leverage”).

Friday, November 5

SMALLVILLE — “Ambush”

(8:00-9:00 p.m.)

The General (guest star Michael Ironside) and Lucy Lane (Peyton List) decide to drop in on Lois (Erica Durance) and Clark (Tom Welling) for a surprise Thanksgiving dinner. Clark and the General get off to a rocky start after Lois’ father bashes the superheroes and tells Clark he is trying to pass a vigilante registration law.

SUPERNATURAL — “Family Matters”

(9:00-10:00 p.m.)

Dean (Jensen Ackles) becomes suspicious of Samuel’s (guest star Mitch Pileggi) motives, but Sam isn’t sold on the idea that their grandfather is doing anything wrong. The brothers go along on a hunt with Samuel and the other Campbells, but things go terribly awry.

Monday, November 8

90210 — “Mother Dearest”

(8:00-9:00 p.m.)

JOE JONAS GUEST STARS — Adrianna (Jessica Lowndes) has to un-invite Navid (Michael Steger) to her magazine premiere party after Victor (guest star Nestor Serrano) arranges for her to go with Joe Jonas (appearing as himself) to boost her image.

GOSSIP GIRL — “Juliet Doesn’t Live Here Anymore”

(9:00-10:00 p.m.)

Chuck (Ed Westwick) and Blair (Leighton Meester) decide it’s in both their best interests to put the past behind them and end their vindictive games.

Tuesday, November 9

ONE TREE HILL — “Mouthful of Diamonds”

(8:00-9:00 p.m.)

TONY GONZALEZ OF THE ATLANTA FALCONS APPEARS IN A CAMEO ROLE — Nathan’s (James Lafferty) career as an agent takes a big step forward when he visits Atlanta, and the drama between Brooke (Sophia Bush) and Sylvia (guest star Sharon Lawrence) finally comes to a head.

LIFE UNEXPECTED — “Plumber Cracked”

(9:00-10:00 p.m. ET)

Cate (Shiri Appleby) takes Paige (guest star Arielle Kebbel) out drinking, hoping Paige will reveal more information about the mysterious woman, Julia, from Ryan’s (Kerr Smith) past.

Wednesday, November 10

AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL — “Kyle Hagler”

(8:00-9:00 p.m.)

This week’s photo shoot takes place in Lake Como, Italy, where the girls receive a head-to-toe transformation to become real-life statues. IMG Models executive Kyle Hagler is this week’s guest judge.

HELLCATS — “Finish What We Started”

(9:00-10:00 p.m.)

MUSICAL GUEST FEFE DOBSON PERFORMS — Savannah (Ashley Tisdale) is furious with Marti (Aly Michalka) for keeping a secret about Dan (Matt Barr) from her so she goes home for a couple days to cool off and reconnect with her family. Meanwhile, Marti is conflicted over her feelings for Dan and Lewis (Robbie Jones), and focuses on Travis’ (guest star Ben Cotton) case to keep her mind occupied. Musical guest FeFe Dobson performs.

Check Back Next Week for more.

 

Technorati Tags: THE VAMPIRE DIARIES,NIKITA,SMALLVILLE,SUPERNATURAL,90210,GOSSIP GIRL,ONE TREE HILL,LIFE UNEXPECTED,AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL,HELLCATS,CW,Television,New Episodes

CONDOR EXPRESS TO FEATURE CLAM CHOWDER FROM ARCH ROCK FISH

 

Popular Whale Watching Cruise to Serve Santa Barbara’s best Chowder “On‐Board”

The celebrated Clam Chowder from Santa Barbara’s
newest seafood restaurant Arch Rock Fish has been selected to be served on‐board the Condor Express, it was announced today. Santa Barbara’s premier whale watching and party/dinner cruise boat will be featuring the Arch Rock Fish clam chowder on‐board its daily charters, parties, and special events.

“We are proud to partner with the Condor Express and Captain Benko, a true Santa Barbara icon.” said Scott Leibfried, Executive Chef and Partner of Arch Rock Fish. “In our continuing effort to bring the best food to Santa Barbara, the Condor Express is a perfect setting to have great seafood, especially our incredible clam chowder.” said Leibfried. Arch Rock Fish is Santa Barbara’s newest restaurant, and the high‐speed 75 foot Condor Express catamaran is Santa Barbara’s favorite whale watching excursion.

Year after year since 1978 the Condor Express is continually voted the "Best Charter & Whale Watching Vessel in Santa Barbara" and the Discovery Channel has named the Santa Barbara Channel "One of the 10 Best Places in the WORLD to View Wildlife."

Now the Condor Express will be one of the best places
to enjoy one of the world’s best clam chowders, from Arch Rock Fish. “The Arch Rock chowder will enhance our cruises, and bring an authentic seafood favorite to our passengers,” said Condor Express’ Captain Fred Benko, “Having tasted many clam chowders from East Coast to West, Arch Rock’s chowder really is simply delicious [one of the best].”Benko said.

For more information:

Arch Rock Fish, located at 608 Anacapa Street
www.archrockfish.com (805) 845‐2800

CONDOR Cruises (www.condorcruises.com) are in the Santa Barbara Harbor at Sea Landing

call 888‐77-WHALE or 805‐882‐0088.

Would you like fries to go with your voter guide today sir?

A handful of McDonald's employees in northeastern Ohio received handbills in their most recent paychecks suggesting they vote for three Republican candidates. "If the right people are elected we will be able to continue with raises and benefits at or above our present levels," the insert said. "If others are elected we will not." This is simply an attempt by one franchise owner, whom seems to be a little over zealous about his politics, to sway some of his employees to vote a certain way and does not reflect in any way shape or form the views of McDonalds Inc. Itself. After the news story broke, the franchise owner quickly apologized for his actions. This does offer us an opportunity to look beyond the food labels into the politics of the food we do eat.

One of the major quips used to describe Americans by the French is that we are "fat disgusting pigs that don't even know what we put in our own mouths". We never really do know exactly what we are eating, even when we grow the food ourselves. Most of us don't have our soil sampled for chemicals or even research the seeds we are planting. Often we find out about the contaminants after we are sick from ingesting it. We then lay the blame upon the store where we purchased it knowing all along the store only bought it from a supplier and only sold it to us. When we buy preprocessed food we are entrusting others, some whom live thousands of miles away in foreign countries to properly grow and handle the food we eat. All food prepared in this form have chemicals to enhance the flavor, preserve the product and enrich its vitamin content. Steroids, antibiotics, pesticides and genetic engineering are commonly used to promote greater harvests. If you ever watched the show "How it's made" you'll notice most of the food people eat comes from a place that looks like it should be building cars or toasters not pancakes.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) America's official watchdogs of what we put into our mouths have both been plagued since their inception with underfunding and relentless industry pressure to try perform their mandates of protecting the American public's health and well being. We have all seen or experienced recalls ranging from salmonella or E. coli to antifreeze in toothpaste and have been taken aback at our own government's inability to regulate what should be considered the most basic of human safeguards, what we eat. Companies producing food products without any government over sight or official licenses to do so have been linked to food poisonings across the country. Large scale industrial farms have injected growth hormones, antibiotics, and sprayed livestock with pesticides all of which have entered into our food supply. The oversight responsibility of Congress in the funding and managing the FDA and the USDA has not only fallen silent but has been in fact been corrupted by industry insiders. Politicians now complain of government getting in the way of business or slowing progress all the while every year has become a new record high in recalls of prescription drugs and outbreaks of food poisonings.

The Produce Safety Project at Georgetown University has estimated the cost of food borne illness to be roughly $152 billion annually. More than 1,000 people have been sickened by eggs and more than 500 million eggs have been recalled this year alone. Last year Beef Packers Inc. (a subsidiary of Cargill) recalled 826,000 pounds of beef due to positive testing, after 28 people fell ill, for Salmonella Newport a strain highly resistant to antibiotics. The USDA however purchased 450,000 pounds of beef for its National School Lunch Program during the dates covered by the recall from Beef Packers Inc., but since the recall only affected beef sold to retailers and not meat sent to schools it continued to supply the possibly affected beef to school children across the country. Beef Packers Inc. had a history of positive Salmonella tests but the USDA did not disclose that information. An official told USA
Today that doing so would discourage companies from contracting to supply product for the National School Lunch Program and hamper our ability to provide the safe and nutritious foods to American school children.

To give you an idea of how entrenched government is with large scale industrial farms. In 1996 Congress enacted legislation allowing the USDA to collect funds from Dairy, Cattle, Pig and Egg farms nationally to use for research and promotion of said products, by the way only 8 percent has gone to actual research. The program called "Check-off" allowed the USDA to tax all the farms producing such commodities, collecting what is called "Check-off dollars" and gave it to non-profit groups like the Cattleman's Beef Promotion and Research Board or the National Pork Board. Advertising campaigns like "Got Milk?" and "Beef, it's what's for dinner" where funded with these check-off dollars. For many years, the Cattlemen's Beef Promotion and Research Board (check-off organization) shared an address with the National Cattleman's Association (trade association lobbying group), and the National Pork Board (check-off) shared offices, staff, and telephone services with the National Pork Producers Council (lobbying). Since the oversight of these non-profits fell in the jurisdiction of the USDA, it simply means that the agency charged with regulating the farming industry is now taxing the farmers and using the money with the help of industry insiders. Basically forcing small family farms to help pay for large industrial farms lobbying efforts that will ultimately put the small farms out of business.

To make matters worse, the US imported over 2 trillion dollars worth of goods, from over 150 countries in 2008 and a growing percentage of these imports have become food products. The amount of food products imported into the US has nearly quintupled since 1990 and we now import more food into this country then we export. Meaning simply we as a country can no longer feed ourselves. Our government can't even properly regulate our own farmers and has little or no jurisdiction over foreign growers. The FDA itself admits on its own web page it cannot possibly inspect all the food coming into the US. It would appear that most of the food imported does not receive any inspection by an official US regulatory agency nor is the country of origin required to be on the packaging of fresh foods when offered up for retail. So in essence by default, the US Senate has become the chief food safety authority, with its ability to regulate foreign trade agreements in the US. Through intensive lobbying and a lack of real government oversight the ability to safely feed all Americans has been outsourced to foreign countries.

Thirty years ago, the US was a major exporter of finished manufactured goods. With relentless lobbying, demonizing of Unions and the misguided belief of free trade our government was sent down a path that led to the destruction of America's manufacturing base. Politics, with its belief in what is envisioned and not what is real is now leading us down the same path with our food supply. Safety measures developed over the last century to protect us from life threatening diseases are being circumvented in order to boost bottom lines. The mechanisms employed by the industrial farmers to lobby congress for laxer standards, tax breaks and even government subsidies is now being used by large retailers and chain restaurants to completely bypass any oversight. We now have to entrust a country considered to be the world's worst dictatorship, The Peoples Republic of China for our food safety. Common America, we can do a lot better.

Arch Rock Fish

 

Arch Rock Fish

608 Anacapa Street

Santa Barbara, California 93101

805-845-2800

http://www.archrockfish.com

I went to Santa Barbara to review Arch Rock Fish, which I presumed to be a new neighborhood restaurant that specializes in a Fresh Seafood Menu, but upon my arrival, I found so much more.

Arch Rock fish opened just last September, and has already secured itself a place in the hearts and minds of its patrons as the place to dine. I was greeted by the reception hostess who showed me to the main bar, just past a large display case showing the exquisite selection of wines. The restaurant has a warm and cozy interior, but is just as appealing for family fair. The restaurant touts a large and spacious dining area that is open and airy but is naturally separated into secluded getaway spaces. The décor is modern but has a very “Western Country” feel, in addition there are small details that make it special, like the Glass Milk Bottles used for serving Ice Cold Water. The atmosphere was quiet but also a buzz with the patron’s conversations, the stories, and the laughter, all very pleasant to be around.

I met a partner in the restaurant, Mike Anderson, whom was Bartender for the evening. Mike and I had a chance to talk and I found that the favorite drink of the bar is the “El Presidio”. The bar was popular with the after work crowd and as it was happy hour, the ample space of the marble top was getting tighter. I could tell that this was a “hot spot” to be. Mike knew everyone by name and knew exactly how to make each drink special for each patron. I was enjoying the beginning of my evening very much, and getting to know all the wonderful people who run Arch Rock Fish was a pleasure, but I was here to meet and interview the Chef, Scott Leibfried.

Scott Leibfried is a famously known chef with an amazing history of employment at restaurants of national acclaim. Chef Scott’s most recent celebrity status is the fact the he is known as the sous chef of Chef Gordon Ramsay of the television shows “Hell’s Kitchen” and “Kitchen Nightmares”. When Chef Scott and I sat down to talk, I found him to be intellectual, friendly, witty and we had a just “ One of the Guys” conversation about his Restaurant and his food.

Interview:

Groove Studio: Chef Scott, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule to meet with me.

Chef Scott: “No problem, always happy to meet new friends”

Groove Studio: Your biography said your interest in cooking started at a young age, what was the reason for you to pursue what would become a majorly successful career so early?

Chef Scott: “Because of my family and how I grew up, the dinner table was where family connected. Food was an important part of my life, and it really meant something to me. My father taught me that if you wanted something and was willing to work hard for it, you will make it, in anything you do. ”

Groove Studio: In your past you have worked at and “moved on” from what some would have considered dream jobs and career peaks, but you kept moving, why?

Chef Scott: “Many of my past restaurant situations trained me to take advantage of opportunities to grow and do better, I never thought I would be a celebrity or a well-known TV personality. I never meant to be a celebrity; I just wanted to be a man who loves what he does a man who creates a place for community, comfort and a place where people can enjoy great casual dining. Here, at Arch Rock Fish, I can do that, great food for great people.”

Groove Studio: How would you describe your style of cooking?

Chef Scott: “Since I grew up in Long Island-New York, I have strong and fond memories of my roots in “Coastal Town “cooking, Fresh Fish and Seafood is the inspiration of my menu designs”.

Groove Studio: You work with Chef Gordon Ramsay, on of Televisions most passionate chefs. His persona can be anything from gentile and guiding, to the “master of the lash”. He has a strong personality that can drive a staff crazy. How would you say working with him influences how you work with your staff?

Chef Scott: “First, Chef Ramsay has a phenomenal sense of humor; we have to keep from laughing constantly. I would say that my staff and I, we understand the rules and measure of what we do. I appreciate the staff for everything they do, without them, I am just one man, but together we are a team that makes all this possible. I want them to be the best, and they know it, and they are up to any challenge we meet together”.

Groove Studio: Do you plan to have your own Television Show or Networked Program?

Chef Scott: “I have no specific plans, but there are some opportunities I am looking at for the future.”

Groove Studio: What is the Goal of Arch Rock Fish? What do you want to be known for as far as what you bring to your community?

Chef Scott: “Arch Rock Fish is a Seafood Restaurant with a simple goal; to provide a comfortable dining experience of consistent quality. We want to be a part of this town, this community and a part of their everyday lives. We want to make something special in their hearts.”

After speaking with Chef Scott and learning what I have about Arch Rock Fish, I wanted to see what the bar menu had to offer, I felt “ I could order a big meal”, but I wanted that part of the family feel, so I ordered from the Happy Hour Menu. I ordered the Salmon Deviled Eggs and the Stilton & Truffle Honey Grilled Cheese Sandwich.

Salmon Deviled Eggs: 3 deviled eggs, nicely plated with a creamy white ginger aioli sauce, the salmon way creamed and blended with just a hint of citrus and spices. The taste was smooth and just melted away. The dish had several complimentary flavors; all placed in a firm egg white topped with fresh herb and is a great appetizer.

Stilton & Truffle Honey Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Fresh multi-grained bread grilled to a crisp golden brown, not “oily” or “greasy”, but has a sweet buttery flavor. The Stilton Cheese was creamy with just a hint of “tang” that lets you know it is there. The sweetness of the Honey and Truffle create a warm tone to the sandwich, the bread provides a firm texture and makes a great mix. The seeds and grains in the bread add a nice variety of additional flavors that make it “bouncy”. The sandwich is cut into 4ths and could easily be a dish shared by two, but for one, just great.

Overall Review:

The Arch Rock Fish has found its “Port of Call”. The concept of blending fine dining with the community based dining experience is perfect. With the endearing atmosphere, attentive, friendly staff and the innovative menu of Chef Scott Leibfried, Arch Rock Fish has, in my opinion has become a very special part of the city.

Communities are built on foundations of Hard Work, Diligence, Faith and Love, and this is where these are found in abundance. Whether you are a young couple on their first date, a family night out with the kids, or a senior couple out on an anniversary, looking to warm their hearts in each other’s eyes, you will find what you are looking for in Arch Rock Fish, Santa Barbara’s new Epicurean Treasure.

Restaurant Review – By Joseph Timmons

 

Technorati Tags: Arch,Rock,Fish,Groove Studio,Gordon Ramsay,Scott, Television,Program,Seafood,Restaurant,menu,Salmon,Eggs,Stilton,Truffle,Honey,Cheese,Sandwich,sauce, herb,appetizer,Fresh,bread,tang,texture,grains,  Review,Call,concept,atmosphere,Communities,   foundations,Hard,Work,Diligence,Faith,Love, abundance,anniversary,Santa,Barbara,Epicurean, Treasure