Often times when someone says “Community Center” you think recreation and linoleum floors. NOT SO!!  The Carson Center is acres of rolling green hills, landscaped patios, private courtyards, and the most amazing atrium court… and that’s just the outdoor space. Jackie at Lovato Images sent over these photos of Kiana and JD’s wedding out on the Grand Ballroom Patio. It’s a beautiful space with a unique structure. I love the way Jackie used the light and architecture to frame the celebration. Not to mention the beautiful couple. To see more of Kiana and JD’s  wedding at The Carson Center click here.

^{Boys & Girls Clubs of Carson Presents}

^{KIDSFEST 2010}

Mindi Abair Performs LIVE at KidsFest!

After more than a decade of performing, songwriting and recording, Mindi has taken a step back from the more polished sensibilities of contemporary jazz and embraced the sounds of past decades – specifically the ‘60s and early ‘70s, a period widely regarded as the golden age of R&B, soul and funk. The result is In Hi-Fi Stereo, her new album released in May of 2010, which captures the raw and edgy aesthetic of that golden age. Loaded with infectious grooves, In Hi-Fi Stereo rekindles that spark for a new generation of ears.

Mindi is also known throughout the music industry for her amazing talent as a singer and flute and keyboard player.  She has toured and/or recorded with the Backstreet Boys, Duran Duran, Mandy More, Josh Groban, Adam Sandler, Keb’ Mo’, Lalah Hathaway, Lee Ritenour, Teena Marie, John Tesh, Bobby Lyle, Johnathan Butler, Peter White and Rick Brawn. She has also hosted the nationally syndicated radio program Chill with Mindi Abair since 2007, which focuses on chill out. To learn more about Mindi Abair, go to her website http://www.mindiabair.com/.

Imagine finding a secret, sunken, meditation garden in the middle of a busy city. Well that’s what Andrea and Craig did. Across from The Carson Center sits this tranquil jewel. It was a beautiful ceremony that celebrated family. After “the kiss” guests were invited over to the Carson patio for cocktails and appetizers. As the sun was setting the evening festivities turned to the grand room at The Carson Center. Beautifully adorned in fuchsia and blue. My favorite part of the evening… Andrea’s dad and his amazing band, David Mora and the Conga Lovers,  entertained the guests for the evening. Truly a family affair.

I love celebrations that become family affairs. When Shorleen and Joasa married, the guest list exceeded 300. There are very few locations in the South Bay that can accommodate a sizable gathering. We were very excited when they chose The Carson Center. Partly because Joasa’s father, Pastor Daniel Hunkin , is a favorite at The Carson Center. Not only was he the father of the groom, he also officiated the ceremony. Probably my favorite part of the celebration. I love a personal message when two people in love make all of those promises to each other. Guests dined and danced the night away in the Grand Ballroom. It truly was a celebration of love and family.

Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Joasa Hunkin…. we look forward to celebrating future events with you and your family at The Carson Center. Blessings!

Once again this year, at The Carson Center, Jay’s Catering had the privilege of sponsoring the annual fund-raising event for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Carson… KIDSFEST!! The evening was kicked off with a SILENT AUCTION, which included some amazing items…. like the 2006 La Crema Chardonnay 3 liter Magnum {I am the winner of that baby} and as always it’s fun to watch guests guard their favorite items as the clock ticks down. All of this to support great programs.

Guests enjoyed tray passed APPETIZERS of Lemongrass skewers with THAI Chicken Meatballs and Red CURRY Sauce, Bacon Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Water Chestnut, and Coconut SHRIMP Tarts. They were also greeted with GORGONZOLA and Roasted Onion Fondue with Banana Chips, Lotus Root Chips, Sweet Potato Chips, and Green Onions.

The JUNGLE themed buffet menu, created by Chef de Cuisine Kevin Fabritz, was set with PAPAYA Salad, Plantain and MANGO Stuffed Chicken Breast with a Coconut and Kaffir Lime Butter Sauce, JOLLOF Rice with Beef, Whipped Sweet Potatoes with a PECAN GLAZE, Creamed Spinach, and Corn Muffins with butter. The plated dessert was a COCONUT Crème Brulee.

The Carson Ballroom was decked out in jungle attire. I loved the LEAF MOTIFS on the ceiling. So much hard work is put into this yearly event. None of it would be possible without the leadership of KIM RICHARDS, Boys and Girls Club Executive Director, and JACKIE ACOSTA, Board President and Event Chair.  GUY BLACK was the emcee and entertained the crowd as he kept the program going. I loved watching the kids from The Boys and Girls Club perform. So much great entertainment and serious TALENT.

Jay Mastroianni (founder of Jay’s Catering) has long been a supporter of The Boys and Girls Club. He is seen here with his daughter Linda Loaeza, President of Jay’s Catering, long time friend Walter Neil from BP Carson Refinery, and Regina Ramirez from the Carson Center.

One of the most entertaining parts of the evening was the LIVE auction. So many great items and a very lively crowd. Jeff Tanenbaum from ROCK the Gavel was always encouraging another bid. Here at KidsFest everyone’s a Winner… especially the kids.

Not sure if this was the WORST table or the BEST. As you can see, the guests at this table (Rotary Club of Carson-Gardena-Dominguez) get a little unruly {thus the placement in the rear of the house}. They also sport noise-makers, hats, and silly string. It is called the TAILS TABLE and is auctioned off every year. WORST?? I think not.

We truly enjoyed working with Kim Washington. Her passion is so inspiring. Thank you to The Boys and Girls Clubs of Carson for allowing Jay’s to be a part of KidsFest 2009 and congratulations on your successful event.

We look forward to next years event.