Here’s a quick preview of what the Video Club’s monthly television shows, “Beyond the Gates” and “Eyes on Books,” are presenting in November, 2024. This article was written for the Laguna Woods Globe by John Peters, Jr.
“Laguna Woods Stories,” the long-running monthly TV show produced and hosted by Video Club Vice-President Tom Nash, is currently in re-runs.
This holiday season explore some of San Diego’s hidden gems! Start with Harper’s Topiary, Edna Harper’s enchanting garden filled with 54 plants sculpted into whimsical figures, including elephants, camels, a whale, and even a bunny and little dog. Watch Edna’s interview with Fran Conroy, host of “Beyond the Gates” (BTG), every Wednesday at 11 a.m. and Sunday at 9 a.m. on Village Television. (At left, Fran, on the right, interviews Edna Harper.)
Fran’s next stop is the Museum of Us in Balboa Park, where its cathedral-like façade sets the stage for fascinating exhibits. James Haddan, Director of Communications & Production, shares insights about the “Mayan,” “Hostile Terrain,” “Animals and Humans,” and “Egyptian” exhibitions. Don’t miss the “Room of Secrets,” showcasing over a million postcards of people’s private confessions. There are also weekly yoga, Tower tours, and poetry readings by a local Poet Laureate.
Finally, venture to Villa Montezuma in Sherman Heights. Built in 1887 by pianist and author Jessie Shephard, this stunning Victorian mansion boasts stained-glass windows (see example below) and an original 1885 piano. Join a one-hour guided tour to see its circular main level and learn more from Louise Torio, president of Friends of Villa Montezuma, who shares details on the home’s National Historic Landmark status and special events like operas, art shows, and festive holiday decorations.
As shown in the photo at top of page, “Eyes on Books” (EOB) hosts Fran Conroy and Jonathan Williams interview “Lady Tan’s Circle of Woman” author, Lisa See. EOB airs on Village Television every Monday and Thursday at 9:30 a.m. This captivating historical fiction novel set in imperial China during the 15th century Ming dynasty, follows the life of Tan Yunxian, who defies societal norms to pursue her passion for medicine. Trained by her grandmother, a physician, Yunxian uses her medical knowledge to help women of all social classes. Over 300 of her remedies are still used today.
The Video One Productions team produces “Beyond the Gates” and “Eyes on Books” with Tom Nash, executive producer; Suzanne Savlov, producer-editor; Jack Crawbuck, technical director, John Glassco and Jack Crawbuck, camera.
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