On the Town:

Ninety-eight supporters quickly signed up and paid their $35 to make sure they would be a part of one of the most popular events of the year for the La Crescenta Woman’s Club — the annual Author’s Lunch. The La Cañada Flintridge Country Club was the sparkling setting Nov. 10. Door prizes, silent auction and book signings added to the festive atmosphere as three authors told their stories.

Mystery writer Michael Mallory was the first author to speak about his fiction and nonfiction writing. He disabused his audience of the notion of writer’s block when he said, “Writer’s block is for amateurs.” Since Mallory is known for his short stories, he also added, “I write short stories because I have short ideas.”

Mary Pat Kelly regaled her audience about her historical fiction novel, “Galway Bay.”

She liberally sprinkled in true stories about her Irish ancestors and her trips to Ireland for research. Kelly’s presentation was accompanied by Irish harpist and Glendale Community College professor Dennis Doyle.

After lunch, Rosemary Lord took her turn at the podium. She talked about Hollywood history and her interviews with stars of yore, including Cary Grant. Her books, “Hollywood Then & Now” and “Los Angeles Then and Now” were especially popular with audience members.

Glendale resident and fervent reader at the event was club President Rita Even, just dubbed Woman of the Year by the Crescenta Valley Chamber of Commerce. La Crescenta residents attending included event Chairwomen Carol Huntwork and Carol Stein. Also on hand were Dea McCrory, Gloria Lee, Carol Benedetti and Jean Bates. Dixie Coutant, Dee Chambers and Mary Elsworth introduced the author-speakers.

Special thanks went to Pasadena’s Vroman’s Books for providing the authors’ books — already signed. All three authors offered to add personal signings, as well.

The club is looking forward to its 100th anniversary in 2011.

?

The Marketplace Shopping Center in La Crescenta was the place to be for foodies Nov. 11. Seventeen local restaurants did what they do best, and food was flowing — everything from House of Joy Chinese to Baja Fresh. The Crescenta Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Taste in the Foothills fundraiser was also accompanied by the Crescenta Valley High School Jazz Band. And jazz goes with every kind of food.

Crescenta Valley High Music Director Mathew Schick conducted his teenage musicians, including first-time band student Aaron Hancock, 16, on baritone sax.