Tomatoes who love incredible theatre must see “Before” at the Odyssey, written and performed by the Olivier Award Winner truly amazing talent, Pat Kinevane. Did you know, Tomatoes, that November is Senior Pet month.  Well, the Wallis Annenberg Pet Space are readying their Seniors for new homes.  Go Native and attend the Grow Native Plant Sale and Workshop at Ballona Discovery Park. Union Station is celebrating big time with their “Tree Lighting and Cocoa Concert”. And Holiday shopping on the front lawn of the famous Hotel Bel Air sounds dreamy. I can’t believe I’m saying this already…but…ready or not, let the Holiday Festivities begin!

Till December 8. Before at the Odyssey

It may not star a Tomato, but it is produced by one and Georganne Aldrich Heller only produces the very best of theatre. I’ve seen her work and I’ve seen a production she co-produced starring Pat Kinevane and it was a night of theatre that I will never ever forget.  That’s why I’m hoping you’ll go see Georganne and Pat Kinevane’s new show “Before” at the Odyssey …BEFORE… December 8 has come and gone. 

“Before” is co-produced by Georganne Aldrich Heller (an amazingly talented producer Tomato),  Fishamble  and the Odyssey with Jim Cullerton directing. The Sunday Times said, “extraordinary collaboration… soul-searching, achingly touching gem…” A couple of years back when I was blessed to see Pat Kinevane perform on stage, in my humble opinion, he was beyond jaw-dropping and I have no doubt in this new production his performance will be just as riveting and compelling  and the reviews second that; “Kinevane’s performance works like a spell” from the Irish Times, “…another profoundly affecting tour de force from Kinevane” from Edinburgh Festivals Magazine, and from the Scotland Herald “You fight back tears. Of course, you do. It’s Kinevane – a rare and truly compelling talent”.  I think that says it all Tomatoes. Don’t miss out.  Book your tickets now!

November 16.  Senior Pet Adoption Fair

November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month and Wallis Annenberg PetSpace is looking to turn some sweet senior pets into happy campers at their “Senior Pet Adoption Fair: Camp Edition!” If you’re looking to meet a kind kitty or pup with a little grey in their face to be your loyal adorable friend, these pets have a ton of love to give and so much more. As Tomatoes, we certainly know that age is just a number and gray is cool!

It’s going to be an afternoon of fun and forever friendship with a great selection of precious senior pets to choose from the Annenberg Petspace, Camp Golden Years and the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control. Tomatoes can also enjoy family-friendly activities: Bingo, Camp-themed games, Smores Complimentary food & drink, great photo ops and prizes and more!  These dogs and cats of a certain age have alot to give and they just need a chance, Tomatoes.  So, when adopting, consider a senior…or…  should I say a vintage pet companion.

November 16.  Grow Native Plant Sale & Workshop

Tomatoes, you can be an Eco-Hero when you attend the “Grow Native Plant Sale and Workshop.” You’ll learn how to garden with native plants and why it matters, with a plethora of classes to choose from! It could be your first step to going and growing native to save water, wildlife and the planet!

Growing native plants matter a great deal to our environment and they can be used in your yard, or your patio/balcony with containers.  There are plenty of reasons to Grow Native.  Native plants reduce water use in the garden by 85%. Holy Moly! Native gardens require 75% less maintenance. As I get older that sure sounds good to me.  You will sneeze less because native plants produce less pollen.  Natives don’t need fertilizers.  They fight climate change because they absorb carbon. Native plants feed wildlife and provide shelter and nesting sites.  A native garden purifies the air and reduces temperatures.  All profoundly important reasons to go and grow natives, Tomatoes.  And let’s not forget they are darn beautiful.  

In today’s podcast, Kim Selby, our SF Editor dives deep with Eileen Williams, creator of the radio show and website, The Feisty Side of Fifty. Listen in as these two audacious and feisty women talk about everything from searching for a career after midlife, how important it is to celebrate women, and yes even Florence Henderson and her wisdom. Listen in here or wherever you listen to podcasts.  

November 21. Tree Lighting and Cocoa Concert

A towering Christmas Tree with thousands of sparkling lights and snow flurries under the stars plus a wonderful concert, and FREE Hot Chocolate flowing are all happening at the “Annual Tree Lighting and Cocoa Concert.” Our beloved Union Station’s South Patio will transform into a festive-family-friendly winter wonderland. Oh my!  They had me at free hot chocolate Tomatoes.

Not to mention, this holiday celebration also includes a Holiday Craft Corner, Kids Zone, Santa Selfies, their own “Candy Cane Lane” with a Candy Cane Queen and holiday-themed arts, crafts and interactive games which certainly checks all the boxes Tomatoes. And The Cocoa Concert features an elite group of student performers with the  award-winning Grand Arts Chamber Singers from neighboring Ramon C. Cortines School of Visual and Performing Arts in DTLA.  Union Stations Tree Lighting kicks off the free “Cocoa Concerts” on Thursday November 21 and Fridays, Dec. 6, 13 and 20. It all sounds enchanting and magical Tomatoes.

November 17. Holiday Market at Hotel Bel Air

It’s starting to get very festive this weekend, Tomatoes. The Hotel Bel-Air is getting into the spirit with a Holiday Market on their Front Lawn, starring local chefs and artisans with their handcrafted gifts, jewelry and beauty buys.  Oooh La La!  Did someone say… “Shopping” in Bel Air?! And it’s FREE and open to the public, Tomatoes! I kid you not.

While you shop, Tomatoes can enjoy the Hotel’s freshly baked pastries, signature cocktails and mulled wine being offered for purchase. There’s a ton of cool vendors and bring a toy or toys (hint, hint) to the donation station for Children’s Hospital.  You can also enjoy performances from local students, join in on a raffle for local charities and just enjoy the lawn of the gorgeous Hotel Bel Air.  Sounds perfect!