Southern California Life_ May.June2017

TRAVEL & RECREATION ISSUE

CELEBRATE DISCOVER EXPERIENCE

malibu wine SaFari

SoCal Family

GetawayS

Culver City evolved

THE PREEMINENT SOUTHLAND ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCE MAY/JUNE 2017

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Feature MAY/JUNE 2017

on the Cov er

34/ WHAT'S NEW AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD

By Linda Lang

A set featuring a stre et scene in New York City is one of the stops on the Studio Tour.

54/ AMELIA EARHART LANDED HERE

THE SANTA BARBARA AIRPORT IS AS MUCH OF A TRAVEL EXPERIENCE AS IT IS A STUDY IN ART AND ARCHITECTURE.

By Erika Thomas

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PHOTO BY UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD

F e at u r e

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CO N T E N TS

86/ Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel & Romantic Getaway

Departments

26/ “Luna Petunia” at Au Fudge: 9010 Melrose Avenue in West Hollywood

MAY/JUNE 2017

10/ AFFAIRS TO REMEMBER Spring Issue Launch Party at Santa Anita Park

14/ LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER/ EDITOR.IN.CHIEF Monique Reidy

20/

16/ SIGNATURES & LANDMARKS

The long-awaited MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, is for 21st century children of all ages.

The Watts Towers

By Sheryl Nance-Nash

20/ ENCHANTING ESCAPES Family Getaways

By Linda Lang

44/

26/ SO CAL CULTURE Magnificent Murals Around Town

By Imaan Jalali

41/ TRENDING TALK

Spring Cleaning

By Esther C. Bleuel, MA, MFT, MDR

44/ OFF THE BEATEN PATH Santa Barbara Soaring

By Benny Haddad

72/ TO-DO-LIST

Cast-Off Couture: SoCal’s Designer Resale and Vintage Clothing Boutiques

By Jenni Keast

78/ FAMILY FUN Water Play

By Robyn Flans

86/ THE WEEKENDER PUERTO VALLARTA A Short Distance But a World Away

By Monique Reidy

92/ CALENDAR 48/ BUBBLES & BREWS

66/ Roberta's, a renowned pizzeria from Brooklyn chose Platform for its first extended West Coast lease.

Mailbu Wine Safari

By Julie Carlson

58/ THE GOURMAND

Culinary Fight Club

By Robyn Flans

62/ FIVE FAVES

SoCal Canine Therapy

By Caroline Wardley

66/ THE HOOD

Culver City: Where Innovation Rules

By Linda Lang

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Events and Happenings

96/ SOOO CAL

“You call this a Storm?”

By Scott Harris

98/ MY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Ben McBee

48/

C E L E B R A T E

D I S C O V E R

EDITORAL

E X P E R I E N C E

PUBLISHED BY ELYSIAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. ENTERTAINMENT & PROFILES EDITOR

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

MONIQUE REIDY

ROBYN FLANS CREATIVE DIRECTOR

ANTONI PHAM

LANDMARKS & HISTORICAL FEATURES EDITOR

PUBLISHER & PRESIDENT

DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

SHERYL NANCE-NASH

MONIQUE REIDY

SPORTS & "SOOO CAL” EDITOR

SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, SALES & DIGITAL PLATFORMS

BENNY HADDAD ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR

IMAAN JALALI

SCOTT HARRIS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS EDITOR

STYLE & BEAUTY EDITOR

HEIDI WOOD-BROWN DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS & CIRCULATION

JANINE GOLDBERG

NICOLE POLLASTRINI

COMMUNICATION & ADVICE EDITOR

ESTHER BLEUEL

JANINE GOLDBERG ADVERTISING CONSULTANT

TRAVEL EDITOR

MIA PIERRE-JACQUES

LINDA LANG

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE

STEVE BLIMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

BENNY HADDAD, JENNI KEAST, ERIKA THOMAS, JULIE CARLSON, CAROLINE WARDLEY

SALES & STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS

VANESSA SHAPIRO BOOKKEEPER

CONNIE SCHUH CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

ERICA GODDARD, BEN MCBEE

CIRCULATION CONSULTANT

DOUG BITTO

INTERNS

CAROLINE WARDLEY, DEVIN FOSTER

LEGAL COUNSEL

EDWARD COREY, ESQ. ADVISORY BOARD

TRAVEL & RECREATION ISSUE

On The Cover: C EL EBRATE DISCOVER EXPERIENCE

MALIBU WINE SAFARI

SOCAL FAMILY

GETAWAYS

CULVER CITY EVOLVED

ONE OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST THEME PARKS AND STUDIO TOUR DESTINATIONS, UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD.

CATHERINE JAYNE, PH.D, STEVE BARDWIL, ESQ., BILL BLEUEL, PH.D, ESTHER BLEUEL, MA, MFT, MDR, ELENA NIKITINA, DOUG SYLVESTER, MARY WAGSTAFF, DEBBIE WIDERØE, KELLY TREVETHAN, SCOTT HARRIS, PATTY MACMILLAN, DIANE DREYER SUBSCRIPTIONS

INFO@SOCALLIFEMAG.COM EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL@SOCALLIFEMAG.COM

For cover story see page 34.

Photography by THE PREEMINENT SOUTHLAND ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCE MAY/JUNE 2017

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UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD

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SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

ADVERTISING

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE MAGAZINE 3625 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Suite 232 Westlake Village, CA 91362 Tel: 805-777-0080 Fax: 805-370-8181 www.socallifemag.com

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED BY ELYSIAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. ©2016 ELYSIAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE MAGAZINE IS REGISTERED US PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE. THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE MAGAZINE ARE NOT TO BE CONSIDERED OFFICIAL EXPRESSIONS OF ELYSIAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. ELYSIAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC DOES NOT ACCEPT ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACTIONS OF ITS READERS. THE CONTENTS WITHIN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE MAGAZINE ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE TREATED AS HEALTH CARE OR HEALTH MANAGEMENT ADVICE. THE MATERIALS HEREIN ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE, DIAGNOSIS, OR TREATMENT. ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF A QUALIFIED HEALTH PROVIDER REGARDING A MEDICAL CONDITION. NEVER DISREGARD PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE OR DELAY IN SEEKING IT BECAUSE OF CONTENT IN THIS MAGAZINE. RELIANCE ON ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED HEREIN IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRODUCTION IN ANY FORM WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM THE PUBLISHER IS PROHIBITED. PUBLISHER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO ACCEPT OR REJECT ALL ADVERTISING MATTER. PUBLISHER DOES NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR ERRORS, OMISSIONS, AND/OR CHANGES IN ADVERTISING OR EDITORIAL MATERIAL. PRINTED IN THE USA.

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A F FA I R S TO R E M E M B E R

Daniel Robinson with AXR Winery

Santa Anita race day guests

SPRING ISSUE LAUNCH PARTY AT SANTA ANITA PARK Janet Barnett & Kellee Edwards

Great fun was had by all at the Spring Issue Launch Party held at Santa Anita Park March 25th, in celebration of their spectacular Chandelier Room, which was featured on the March/April cover. The special event was hosted by Santa Anita Park for Southern California Life Magazine in the 100-1 Club with more than 120 special guests in attendance. AXR Winery in Napa Valley provided their signature wines as guests enjoyed a day filled with horse-racing, food and wine-tasting.

JUDI BUMSTEAD

Julie Khalil, Judy Kalil & Paul Kalil

AXR Wines

Benny Haddad, Whitney Haddad & Blair Haddad

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Rebecca Good

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A F FA I R S TO R E M E M B E R

Caroline Wardley & Amy Falahat

Carrie Smith & Jenny Saturday

Dorothy Lucey, David Goldstein & Dave Bryan

Sarah Harburg & Kevin Fitzgerald

100-1 Club

Santa Anita Chef prepares lunch

Lori Nielson & Shawn Kelly

Tawny Schmidt, Presley Schmidt & Vince Mlodinof

Our special guests in the Winner's Circle

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Sandra Mitchell & Nehl Bobal

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A F FA I R S TO R E M E M B E R

Jennifer Sutman & Patty Macmillan

Photographer Tim Horton

...continued

Shawna McLean, Jim & Wendy Mitchell

TIM HORTON

SPRING ISSUE LAUNCH PARTY AT SANTA ANITA PARK Jon & Petrie Williams

JUDI BUMSTEAD

Esther Bleuel, Russell & Tim Thyret

Carold Magno & Carol Canet

Stacy & Bob Selvin

Rick & Lou Ann Lemmo TIM HORTON

Rick Brown, Heidi Wood-Brown & Alexis Garske

Deanne French & Marguerite Clark

Lisa & Lou Lichtl

The race is on!

Jeff Lee WWW.S O CA LL I FE MAG .CO M

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TIM HORTON

Yvonne Sabato, Monique Reidy & Antonio Sabato, Jr

Barry Boscoe & Judith Feldman

Kellee Edwards & Christine Mango

Judi Bumstead

Mary Beth Ramsey, Christian Barney & Jennifer Shultz

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THE PUBLISHER / EDITOR.IN.CHIEF

M

y earliest memories of moving to SoCal as a young child are those of my parents

schlepping my brother and me around from one amusement park to another. Having relocated from New York City where we had just survived a brutal winter, enjoying the outdoors was a special treat. One of my favorite visits was to Universal Studios, where as a new “Californian,” I experienced a peek into the magical world of Hollywood filmmaking. So having Universal Studios on our cover this issue is a thrill for me on many levels, not the least of which is the sense of nostalgia that this prominent landmark evokes. e cover story on page 34 underscores the many reasons Universal Studios is recognized as one the Southland’s hottest locations.

As we began to produce this, our Travel and Recreation issue, our editorial team was reminded of how blessed we are as a community to get to live where so many people aspire to visit, primarily because there is so much to do here. We are oen asked if we fear running out of places to cover and our reply is always an emphatic, “no.” Recreation and amusement is one of the Southland’s most outstanding characteristics, as world-famous entertainment options are inexhaustible.

But Southern Californians consider the region ideal not just for the local event options available but because accessing other desirable travel destinations from here is so simple. Heading to Mexico, Canada, Las Vegas, Northern California and other getaway points is a short flight or drive away. And because long weekend escapes are so popular, we have added a new section beginning with this issue titled, “e Weekender.” is is where we’ll spotlight travel outside of SoCal that can theoretically be executed in a weekend. Our first, Puerto Vallarta, is featured on page 86.

Whether a visitor or resident, we encourage you to check out some of the local activities highlighted in this issue. Even as a lifelong Southern Californian, the destinations you may have experienced as a child can take on brand-new significance as you reminisce previous visits and create new memories you will cherish forever.

Warm regards,

MONIQUE REIDY

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Experience the Perfect Pairing of

WINE & WAVES in Pismo Beach ENTER TO WIN A Romantic Getaway for Two!

Getaway to Pismo Beach to experience the Classic California vacation of your dreams. Enjoy strolling along miles of sandy white beaches. Explore the open ocean and kayak through sea caves naturally occurring in cliffs along the beautiful Pacific Coastline. If relaxing is more your style, discover our three neighboring wine regions that are just minutes from your oceanfront hotel, vacation rental or RV resort. Whatever adventure you seek, you’ll find it in Classic Pismo Beach.

www.ClassicCalifornia.com

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S I G N AT U R E S & L A N D M A R KS

Mussel shells in the Watts Towers

Watts Towers

THE WATTS TOWERS BY

SHERYL NANCE-NASH

SOMETIMES YOU BEGIN A JOURNEY, UNCLEAR OF THE FINAL

destination. You take the first steps and let destiny unfold.

Back in 1921, when Simon Rodia purchased a little cottage in Los Angeles with a triangular-shaped backyard and began “decorating”, he couldn’t have known that he would be creating an historic piece of work, which over the next 30-plus years would become the Watts Towers of Simon Rodia, 17 massive sculptures constructed of structural steel and covered with mortar.

“I don’t think he had building a monument in mind when he started. It grew organically and built upon itself. We only have vague information, some photos that give us a look at the early stages. He likely began by decorating his house, then began creating a tower, then another tower, and another, connecting them. At some point, he raised a tower and there was a tower within a tower,” surmises Jeffrey Herr, the Historic Site Curator for the City of Los Angeles’ Department of Cultural Affairs.

“Rodia was a tile setter by trade, but he spent weekends and hours aer work, building the towers almost nonstop for years. He was also a preacher, and very unique,” says Herr.

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S I G N AT U R E S & L A N D M A R KS

Construction of Watts Towers Arts Center, Calif. 1961

by UCLA Library Special Collections

“THE TOWERS WERE DEEDED TO THE STATE IN 1978 AND ARE A TOURIST ATTRACTION. THEY WERE ONE OF THE LOCATIONS IN THE OSCAR WINNING MOVIE LA LA LAND.”

Born in Ribottoli, Italy, Herr suspects the Los Angeles landmark Rodia built, which he called, Nuestro Pueblo (our town), could have been influenced in part by what he saw as a boy attending village folk festivals. “Men carried 40 foot structures in parades. ink of statutes like the Virgin Mary effigies, but 10 times bigger, it has some parallels to what he did with the towers,” says Herr.

What was it that brought Rodia all the way from Italy to America? His brother immigrated here in 1895 and lived in Pennsylvania. Rodia followed not long aer and later made his way to the west coast to work in construction. Herr isn’t sure when exactly he started building the towers, but bit by bit it all came together. What’s remarkable is that Rodia, alone, built them. ere was no crew. He also didn’t have any investors plucking down big bucks for materials. He had no fancy equipment or machinery. “is is about a man’s ingenuity. He accomplished an engineering feet, with hammer, chisel, pliers, simple tools,” says Herr. He dressed the towers in broken glass, sea shells, tiles, ceramics, whatever was handy. “While it looks like he gathered broken things, he also would take whole things and break them. It was

purposeful and good and repurposing found objects,” says Herr.

To give you a sense of how huge his towers are, one of them is nearly 100 feet and contains the longest slender reinforced concrete column in the world. e monument also features a gazebo with a circular bench, three bird baths, a center column and a spire reaching a height of 38 feet. Rodia's "ship of Marco Polo" has a spire of 28 feet, and the 140-foot long "south wall" is decorated extensively with tiles, sea shells, pottery, glass and hand-drawn designs. e only way he could work on the towers, says Herr, was to climb. He had built-in ladders in the towers. He carried up heavy materials and wet concrete. By his early 70s, the physicality of the task was no longer sustainable. “When he could no longer continue, he deeded his property to a neighbor and joined his sister in Martinez. I don’t believe he was finished,” says Herr.

Who knows what else he might have done? e Watts Towers, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, are a National Historic Landmark, and a State of California Historic Park and Historic-Cultural Monument No. 15, as designated by the City of Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Commission. H

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S I G N AT U R E S & L A N D M A R KS “TO GIVE YOU A SENSE OF HOW HUGE HIS TOWERS ARE, ONE OF THEM IS NEARLY 100 FEET AND CONTAINS THE LONGEST SLENDER REINFORCED CONCRETE COLUMN IN THE WORLD.”

e first couple of decades the Watts Towers, however, didn’t get much attention outside of the neighborhood. It was in an industrial area, close to the railroad tracks. e spotlight didn’t come until the 50s and early 60s. Herr says there was a major controversy over the towers because of their size and potential safety hazard, especially in the event of an earthquake. A fire destroyed his house aer he le, in 1956. e Department of Building and Safety wanted the property destroyed. Bill Cartwright and Nick King bought the towers from Rodia’s neighbor for $3,000 and they founded the Committee for Simon Rodia’s Towers in Watts. ey recognized the worth of towers and fought to save them by getting signatures and money and saw to it that an engineering test was conducted in 1959 that would prove the towers were structurally sound. “e deal was that if a stress test was done and the tallest tower couldn’t be pulled down the city would rescind its demolition order. e monument was rescued,” says Herr. e 60s would usher in a new era for the towers. “ey were a focus point for arts and culture in Watts. ey were an impetus for creating a cultural arts center three. In the 60s Watts was on the cutting edge of the music scene. e towers were a beacon of

individuality, which meant a lot to a community that was underserved. e towers were a foundation for African American artists looking for a springboard for their work. Rodia was a spiritual icon for their work. He gave them a foothold,” says Herr. “What may be less recognized is how integral the arts center that still exists today, is to the significance of the towers. His little house that burned downed was where the art center was first. It started outdoors.” e Watts Towers Arts Center is a tremendous cultural resource, with galleries, contemporary and historical art, educational programming, the annual Simon Rodia Watts Tower Jazz Festival, Watts Towers Day of the Drum Festival and much more. e Towers were deeded to the State in 1978 and are a tourist attraction. ey were one of the locations in the Oscar winning movie La La Land.

Rodia is quoted as saying, “I had in mind to do something big and I did it.” He certainly did. Says Herr, “It’s amazing that he had the ability to focus so intently on one things for so many years. He proves you can do anything – amazing things, if you believe in yourself.” ❖

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ENCHANTING ESCAPES

FAMILY

GETAWAYS

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BY

LINDA LANG

UMMER'S COMING INTO FULL BLOOM.

e rainy season has le our fields and rolling hillsides green, gardens bright with color, and shimmering lakes filled to their maximum.

Daylight savings time lets us enjoy longer days and more outdoor activities. Schools are closing for summer and mom and dad have vacation time coming. For those looking for family vacation getaways, So Cal has it all.

Family time is especially to be treasured in today's fast-paced world. At the same time, family members have individual interests and enjoy different activities. Our Southland is filled with limitless options, and the concierges of today's hotels and resorts are well prepared to guide you to the best choices off as well as on site. H

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ENCHANTING ESCAPES

The long-awaited MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, is for 21st century children of all ages.

MOXI

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ENCHANTING ESCAPES

e French Riviera has nothing on Santa Barbara's American Riviera®. ere's sun, surf, swimming, boating, golf, charming little historic towns amid rolling hills, vineyards, and farmlands. In the center of it all is the laid-back city of Santa Barbara rich in its Spanish heritage, culture, arts, and entertainment world. ere is something for everyone here. e Newest attraction in town is the long-awaited MOXI, e Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation on State Street, located two blocks from Stearns Wharf. Exhibits include a giant strummable guitar and recording studio where you and the kids can create your own soundtracks. Among other attractions are the Santa Barbara Zoo with live shows, high-tech dinosaurs, talking grizzly bear, and zoo train. At the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, kids of all ages have opportunities to work like scientists, and at Shark Cove, come face to face with coastal sharks.

At Stearns Wharf there are water sports, lots of fun shops and eateries.

Boat tours offer excursions to Channel Islands, sunset cocktail cruises, whale watching and more. Equipment rentals are also available for kayaking, scuba diving, paddle boarding, and parasailing. In downtown Santa Barbara are antique shops, fashion boutiques, art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and an excellent variety of dining options. e many summer events include concerts in the park, outdoor movies in the Sunken Gardens, and events celebrating Memorial Day, July 4th and Italian, Greek and French festivals.

Build it and test it at MOXI's interactive Speed Track.

MOXI

SANTA BARBARA

www.santabarbaraca.com

SANTA BARBARA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

Get close up and personal with baby sharks at the Santa Barbara Sea Center.

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JAY SINCLAIR, VISIT SANTA BARBARA

Standup paddleboards can be rented at Stearn's Wharf.

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Giraffes are among the 600 animals at the Santa Barbara Zoo.

MOXI

You and the kids can create your own soundtracks at MOXI's studios.

The Four Seasons Biltmore's Bella Vista offers al fresco oceanfront dining featuring Italian-inspired cuisine.

PETERMALINOWSKI/ FS

FOUR SEASONS

The Four Seasons Biltmore offers a wide selection of room and suites such as the Fremont Suite with its own private patio.

Many resorts offer special programs for kids and families. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara offers its complimentary Kids For All Seasons for children ages 5-12. ere are children's bathrobes, complimentary baby and children's toiletries, kid's menus and activities to keep little ones busy while mom and dad take a wine tour, play golf, explore downtown or spend the aernoon in the resort's award-winning spa. Teens and parents can also choose a game with Olympic Volleyball Gold Medalist Todd Rogers as their personal coach or check out favorite surfing spots with World Surfing Champion Tom Curren. Other activities include tennis, croquet, swimming, games and movie nights.

www.fourseasons.com/santabarbara

Beach Volleyball is a favorite pastime at the Four Seasons Biltmore.

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FOUR SEASONS

JAY SINCLAIR, VISIT SANTA BARBARA

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ENCHANTING ESCAPES The massive Cabazon Dinosaurs have long been one of the desert's most popular roadside attractioins.

The Palm Springs Tram transports you up 8516 feet to Mountain Station where there are restaurants, documentary theatres and much more.

COURTESY OF VISITGREATERPALMSPRINGS.COM

PALM SPRINGS While you may not think of rushing to the desert during the summer, there are lots of reasons you may want to reconsider. Yes, it can be quite toasty for several hours during the middle of the day, but you can use that time to enjoy lunch, shopping and other activities in the air conditioned malls, the resort's spa and other indoor locales, enjoying many other great options during the remaining hours. You can also find some great off-season deals offered by the resorts, restaurants and shops catering to the summer crowds.

Many of the legendary places to stay have family-oriented offerings. The Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa is one excellent choice. Covering 45+ acres, it has two championship golf courses, tennis, swimming pools, private poolside cabanas, deluxe spa, variety of dining options and lots of things for families to do.

Camp Hyatt® is offered to children ages 3-12. While the bigger folks are pursuing their interests, the kids are learning about the flora, fauna, culture, and local geography of the area when not enjoying the water slide, feeding fish, and meeting camp mascots Shelley e Tortoise and Spike the Bearded Dragon - all under careful supervision, of course. Teens get to know one another at the pools, playing volleyball, tennis, foosball, badminton, testing their skills at the pool table and more.

www.indianwells.regency.hyatt.com For family outings, there's the Palm Springs Aerial Tram, jeep tours to the San Andreas Fault, Palm Springs Indian Canyons, Joshua Tree National Park, Painted Canyon and more. Another favorite is The Living Desert where you and the kids can interact with giraffes, hedgehogs, foxes and other animals. e Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert is a great experience for the little ones. Here children's curiosity and self-expression are developed through interactive programs and exploring the natural environment.

www.visitgreaterpalmsprings.com The Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa has great programs for kids and their partents.

The 36-hole Indian Wells Golf Resort has two courses ranked in the Top 20 Best Courses in California.

Rancho Mirage's premier shopping, dining, and entertainment center is a great place to be during the heat of the day.

The Hyatt Regency has a wide variety of accommodations to suit every family's needs.

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When parents need some alone time, Camp Hyatt takes over with lots of activities for the kids.

At the Living Desert, kids can interact with giraffes, hedgehogs, foxes and other animals.

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The Paradise Point spa courtyard is a tranquil introduction an afternoon of pampering.

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ENCHANTING ESCAPES

Jet Skiing is one of the many watersports offered at Paradise Point.

SANDIEGO.ORG

San Diego's Embarcadero on the waterfront is always filled with activity.

SAN DIEGO

Adjacent to Sea World and just minutes from downtown San Diego is the private island resort of Paradise Point Resort & Spa on Mission Bay. Beach bungalow-style rooms surrounded by lush tropical gardens and shimmering lagoons are just the beginning. e private, full-service marina offers sailing, speed boating jet skiing, and kayaking with basic instruction. Wetsuits and life vests are provided. Surfing, jet skiing, water skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing — whatever your choice of water thrills, it's here. And for sun lovers, the mile of white sand beach is perfect for catching rays or playing games including beach volleyball.

Additionally, there are five swimming pools in various tropical settings throughout the 44 acres.

Dining options feature the Zagat top-rated Tidal restaurant, waterfront Barefoot Bar & Grill and poolside Tropics Cantina. e Spa at Paradise Point offers treatments for body and face, plus a salon and state-of-the-art fitness center. Little ones ages 4-12 can play and learn in the Island Adventure Club bungalow with arts and cras, making s'mores, scavenger hunts, mini-golf tournaments and hunting for seashells. ere are also family scavenger hunts, movie nights with s'mores, treasure hunts, and jungle walks.

DESTINATION HOTELS (3)

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL

The safari caravan is one way to enjoy the San Diego Zoo.

www.paradisepoint.com As much as Paradise Point offers, you may want to venture out to enjoy some of the many popular attractions in and around San Diego. For starters, you can take an Old Town Trolley from the resort for a fully narrated tour of Old Town, San Diego and Coronado. Sea World is also a popular choice as are the San Diego Zoo, numerous museums and attractions in Balboa Park, and San Diego Waterfront including the USS Midway and other museums and nearby Gaslamp Quarter. You can also savor some of the southland's finest seafood, steakhouse and ethnic dining. ❖

www.visitsandiego.com

The flight deck of the USS Midway Museum takes you back to another time.

Paradise Point has lots of family activities.

DESTINATION HOTELS (2)

The privateisland resort of Paradise Point feaures bungalows and suites amid tropical gardens and lagoons and its own private marina.

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More to Sea™

There’s Always in Redondo Beach...

Where skies are crystal blue, and palm trees sway from cool ocean breezes is a picturesque beach community that is classic Southern California.

Redondo Beach is the perfect blend of ideal coastal beauty and fun in the sun. Just seven miles south of LAX, but removed from the hustle and bustle of the big city. This is the place where you can either get away from it all or do-it all.

For more information visit or call:

www.visitredondo.com | 800.282.0333

#VisitRedondo

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JACQUELINE HADEL

S O C A L C U LT U R E

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S O C A L C U LT U R E

MAGNIFICENT

MURALS AROUND TOWN BY

IMAAN JALALI

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AN YOU IMAGINE VIEWING ARTWORK

in a museum without a glowering security guard staring you down to make sure you’re not too close to the piece? What if you had the ability, day or night, in your car or on foot, to admire public paintings on random sidewalls, in the most extraordinary places? ere are treasure troves of murals throughout Southern California that are either part of a modern movement, are of major cultural value, or, have, at the very least, invaluable Instagram potential. H

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“Luna Petunia” at Au Fudge: 9010 Melrose Avenue in West Hollywood w ere are many reasons why Jessica Biel is cool. She has made a name for herself in Hollywood, broken many hearts by marrying Justin Timberlake, and has opened the AU FUDGE restaurant in West Hollywood. In addition to a fun place for families to eat, a big bonus lies in a mural around the building. Based on the popular Netflix cartoon, this mural

by Kelsey Montague is a pastel potpourri with its title character right in the middle of the design. Undoubtedly, it’s highly recommended to take a trip to Au Fudge to simply stare in amazement at the purple flowers, green shading, and sinuous black lines that outline “Luna Petunia.”

Aerwards, visitors will be even more appreciative of Biel for commissioning this masterpiece.

JESSICA-BIEL.COM

www.aufudge.com

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BLUE COWS

JASON REYNOLDS (3)

MONARCH MAGIC

FEEDING TIME

A Large Collection of Murals in Old Town Lompoc in 1988, the LOMPOC made sure to protect its approximately forty murals in a city that is oen referred to as “e City of Arts and Flowers.” Each mural has the potential to transfix viewers, making this a well-served day trip to experience. Among the murals are “Feeding Time” by Jeff Raum, which offers a “window” along a wall where a Tyrannosaurus Rex glares with carnivorous intentions at an obliviously prone dinosaur; and, “e Boatmen” by John Pugh, which depicts a ship “breaking” through and out of a wall. But, perhaps the most memorable one is “Monarch Magic” by Oregon artist Colleen Goodwin Chronister, where three kids are standing seemingly in butterfly heaven, gasping in awe at the sweet swarm of the miraculous creatures within reach. On a blistering hot summer day, murals like this one justify being outside! H

JEREMY BALL

w Since its inception MURAL SOCIETY has

www.lompocmurals.com THE BOATMEN

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is showcasing various murals that serve as reminders of the love of culture and historical significance for many of the Latinos who live here. For example, near the Belching Beaver Brewery in North Park, there is the “Greetings from San Diego” mural by Victor Fung that is warmly welcoming in the way it reflects the city’s ocean vistas, blue skies, and lush scenery. In addition, “Don’t Believe the Hype” by Brazilian duo Os Gémeos, on the south side of the Westfield Horton Plaza, is unique for being rendered vertically along a parking garage wall. It features different individuals standing on top of each other’s shoulders, and succeeds by being minimalistic in a manner that draws rapt attention. e murals with arguably the most substance are in the Barrio Logan neighborhood, the home of Chicano Park, and where Mexican heritage is paid homage to with discrete collages alluding to e Day of the Dead and the Aztecs, to name a few. e one mural in particular that epitomizes the struggle to get the public artworks recognized by San Diego is “We Saved Our Murals” by Mario Torero. Created in 1997, it is a celebratory piece of art that reflects a resistance which has ultimately triumphed. H www.greetingstour.com/murals/san-diego-ca

DAVID BROOKS

GREETINGSTOUR.COM

GREETINGS FROM SAN DIEGO

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CHICANO PARK

DON’T BELIEVE THE HYPE

Do you miss Ronald Reagan?

Would you like to learn more about him?

Mention “Southern California Life� to receive a free gift!

Come visit the Reagan Ranch Center!

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our trip to Santa Barbara will not be complete without knowing what Ronald Reagan accomplished while he lived here. The Reagan Ranch Center, in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, on lower State Street, features original Reagan Ranch artifacts paired with state-of-the-art, interactive, multimedia exhibits that highlight the history of Ronald Reagan’s quarter-century at Rancho del Cielo and the lasting accomplishments of his presidency.

More than six hours of dynamic multimedia content is contained in exhibits that provide access to exclusive speeches, interviews, radio addresses, and original video presentations. The galleries also feature a number of unique artifacts of Ronald Reagan’s time in Santa Barbara, including the Reagan family Bible and the table where he signed into law the largest tax cut in American history.

Monday – Thursday 11 AM – 4 PM* Admission Is FREE! *Note: Gallery hours may be shortened or expanded for special events. For the latest information, please call 888-USA-1776.

PLEASE VISIT US AT: The Reagan Ranch Center, 217 State Street, Santa Barbara, California 93101 — Next to the train station!

GROUP TOURS: To schedule a class or group tour, please contact us at 888-USA-1776.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Go to www.yaf.org or call 888-USA-1776. ɨF 3FBHBO 3BODI $FOUFS t 4UBUF 4USFFU t 4BOUB #BSCBSB $BMJGPSOJB t 64" /BUJPOBM )FBERVBSUFST t $PNNFSDF 1BSL %SJWF 4JYUI 'MPPS t 3FTUPO 7JSHJOJB t 64"

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NICK AGRO

ERIC HOOD

AMONG HEROES

Orange County’s Murals

ABSTRACT HUMANOID

MICHAEL GOULDING

w A poignant mural, completed last year aer four years in the making, is “Among Heroes” by Carlos Aguilar, which can be found on the side of Santa Ana’s La Chiquita Restaurant in the Logan neighborhood. It is a moving work of reverence for the estimated 500,000 Mexican-Americans who participated in World War II. It is comprised of an illuminating and mostly black-and-white design with the faces and names of those who lived to tell the tale, alongside those who tragically perished.

And, until recently, before the city of Irvine mandated that it be removed, one mural that regularly sparked awe from drivers along the 405 North was the one plastered on the Tilly’s Inc. building. e installation, which was spray-painted by Rhode Island School of Design graduate Zio Ziegler, highlighted abstract humanoid figures who were running in motion. Even more impressively, the outlined individuals were filled in with brilliant hues that made up a spectral pattern. e removal of murals in ORANGE COUNTY is a cause for concern, given that bureaucratic pressure within the region has beset many of the Chicano-themed murals - most of which were painted in the 1970s and 80s, and can still be tracked down at El Patio in Capistrano Beach and on the outside of the Salvation Army Church in Anaheim. Unfortunately, several of them are now being painted over, which is why it’s important for Orange County residents to publicly express their appreciation of them before it’s too late. ❖

ERIC HOOD

ERIC HOOD

www.ocexplore.org/murals

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* HARRY POTTER, characters, names and related indicia are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR. (s17) ©2017 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.

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Wave your wand and watch the magic unfold at Hogsmeade™ in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™.

DAVID SPRAGUE/UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD*

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NATHANIEL CHADWICK/UNIVERSAL CITYWALK NATHANIEL CHADWICK/UNIVERSAL CITYWALK

MIKE DANENBERG/UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD *

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD

DAVID SPRAGUE/UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD *

1. Soar high above the castle grounds on Harry Potter's Forbidden Journey™, Universal Studios Hollywood's first outdoor rollercoaster ride. 2. Wave your wand and watch the magic unfold at Hogsmeade™ in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™. 3. The new, upscale Directors Lounge offers cocktails and pre- and post-movie fun for visitors to Universal Cinema. 4. Universal Cinema on Universal CityWalk, now offers 19 theatres with the latest high-tech innovations and posh amenities including reserved reclining seats. 5. Worldfamous Voodoo Doughnut just opened its first California location at Universal CityWalk. 6. You can try a Cheeseburger in Paradise and other island specialties at Jimmy Buffett's recently-opened Margaritaville in CityWalk. 7. WaterWorld's Live Sea War Spectacular show is now the most complex combination of massive high-tech special effects, pyrotechnics, flame and human stunt work. 8. Explore the many shops of Hogsmeade™ including the rustic tavern of Three Broomsticks™ and Honeydukes™ with its shelves of such delectable sweets as Peppermint Toads, Fudge Flies and Chocolate Frogs™.

9. The Hogwarts Express steam locomotive that travels from Platform Nine and Three-Quarters at Kings Cross station to Hogsmeade is appropriately stationed at the entry where the Hogwarts Express conductor welcomes new arrivals to the land. *HARRY POTTER, characters, names and related indicia are trademarks of and © Warner Bros.

Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR. (s17) ©2017 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: DAVID SPRAGUE/UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD *

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD *

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ike the movies, there’s always something new and amazing to experience upon entering the gates of Universal Studios Hollywood.

Featuring the highest tech advances, latest themed attractions, celebrated Studio Tour, thrill rides, immersive lands and iconic scenes from film and TV screens, you are transported into e Wizarding World of Harry Potter, e Walking Dead, Despicable Me Minions, King Kong, Jurassic Park, e Simpsons in their hometown of Springfield, and many other timeless Hollywood settings.

If this is your first visit, you’ll want to explore Universal CityWalk Hollywood, an outdoor entertainment, dining and shopping promenade. It’s one of Los Angeles’ most popular lifestyle centers and a great place to relax aer a day of thrills at Universal Studios Hollywood perusing CityWalk’s shops, eateries, and deciding what to do for dinner and the rest of the evening. Options include rockin’ clubs and live music venues, Jimmy Buffett’s new Margaritaville restaurant, world-famous

Voodoo Doughnut’s first California location, state-of-the-art outdoor 5 Towers concert venue, and the all-new multi-milliondollar renovated movie theatre complex. e Universal Cinema, located at Universal CityWalk, is a sophisticated, state-of-the-art complex delivering the ultimate movie-going experience. e redesigned 18 theatres and sevenstory IMAX® auditorium now feature the latest high-tech innovations including Christie RGB Laser projection, Dolby Atmos multidimensional sound, and posh amenities such as reserved, deluxe, power reclining seats that allow movie-goers to experience the same viewing comfort as found in Hollywood screening rooms. New perks also include e Marketplace, a self-service concession offering everything from smoothies and coffee beverages to gourmet popcorn and other choices including options for the health-conscious. Also new is e Directors Lounge, an upscale cocktail bar for pre- and post-movie fun. Beverages served at the lounge can also be taken into theatres on the second level. Additionally, movie-goers can qualify for $5 parking with the purchase of a movie ticket. H

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NATE WEBER/UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: 1. Transformers characters - Megatron, Optimus Prime, and Bumblebee take you on Transformers: The Ride-3D, a thrilling ride blending HD 3D media and flight simulation technology, as you fight to save humanity. 2. Have your photo taken with the Raptor on the Lower Lot just outside of the Jurassic Park The Ride™. 3. Battle your way to survival in the Walking Dead, an immersive adventure in a world overrun by hungry walkers as featured in the popular TV series. 4. Get caught in a petrifying battle between King Kong and a 35-foot TRex during the award-winning King Kong 360 3-D, the world’s largest 3-D experience on the Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour. 5. Lard Lad is one of the sites to see in the Simpson's much-loved fictional town of Springfield.

6. An encounter with the shark from Jaws can be expected on the Studio Tour.

7. Roaming costumed characters greet visitors throughout the theme park. 8.

Four-legged and winged stars also meet fans and demonstrate their talents.

9. The VIP Tour includes breakfast and gourmet lunch in the private VIP dining room, an exclusive backlot tour with a VIP guide along with other special perks. 10. Join Gru, his daughters and the mischievous Minions aboard the heartwarming, hilarious Despicable Me Minion Mayhem 3-D ride.

fun-filled 3-D ride. Aerwards, you can visit Super Silly Fun Land, a dynamic play area adjacent to the Minions ride. On Jurassic Park® – e Ride, you encounter moving dinosaurs, a terrifying 50-foot T-Rex, and face an 84-foot death-defying ra plunge. If your heart still isn't pumping fast enough, continue to Revenge of the Mummy – e Ride for more astounding special effects in the exciting indoor rollercoaster thrill ride. en there’s Shrek 4-D™ where you enter Lord Farquaad’s dungeon and find yourself in seats that move in tandem with the action so you actually see, hear, and feel water, wind, mist and other special effects of this hair-raising adventure. e action continues with Waterworld – A Live Sea War Spectacular which represents the most complex combination of high-tech special effects, pyrotechnics, flame and human stunt work. Next, the entertainment industry’s greatest movie-making illusions take center stage in the Special Effects Show. And if you want to see Universal’s Animal Actors in action, check out the talented four-legged friends displaying their skills. Roaming costumed characters also greet visitors throughout the park.

You may also have chance encounters with celebrities and other notables. If you’re a fan of the award-winning television show EXTRA, the leading weeknight entertainment show hosted by Mario Lopez, Tracey Edmonds and Charissa ompson, it's filmed right here Monday through Friday from 10:00a.m. - 4:00p.m. before live audiences at Universal Studios Hollywood’s main entry.

Fans and theme park guests have a rare opportunity to see their favorite stars, athletes and other personalities close up as well as interact with Mario, Charissa and Tracey; pose for pictures; get autographs; and enjoy being part of the Hollywood scene.

If you’re looking for souvenirs, the Universal Studio Store on CityWalk carries lots of logo apparel as well as trendy Hollywood fashions and products featuring many of today’s and yesterday’s pop culture characters. ere’s also merchandise from e Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ including Hogwarts™ School of Witchcra and Wizardry robes, scarves, wands and other collectibles from the Harry Potter™ films including sweets such as Bertie Bott’s EveryFlavour Beans™ and Chocolate Frogs™.

More information is available at www.UniversalStudios Hollywood.com, and you can like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.

For the latest happenings, shopping, and what’s playing at AMC Universal CityWalk 19, visit www.CityWalkHollywood.com.

Regular updates are also on CityWalk’s Twitter @CityWalkLA, Facebook-Universal CityWalk Hollywood and on CityWalk’s Instagram @CityWalkLA. SM

GARY MOSS/UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD

Other recent additions to Universal Studios Hollywood, one of the world’s largest theme parks and Studio Tour, include e Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ featuring Hogsmeade village where you can cast spells, wave your interactive wand, and watch the magic unfold; experience Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, the ultimate thrill ride where you soar above the castle; and Flight of the Hippogriff™ ̶Universal Studios Hollywood’s first outdoor rollercoaster. Also not to be missed is the all-new e Walking Dead daytime attraction where you become immersed in the postapocalyptic world of AMC’s “e Walking Dead” and fight for survival in a world plagued by hungry walkers; and the award-winning e Simpsons Ride™ where you join Homer, Marge and Bart for a visit to Krustyland in their hometown of Springfield. e world-renowned Studio Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood’s signature attraction, takes you behind-the-scenes of the world’s largest movie and TV working studio. Here you see where movies are made, confront a mighty King Kong 360 3D – the world’s largest, most intense 3-D experience, and hold on tight during the thrilling Fast & Furious – Supercharged ride featuring the original cast from the Fast and Furious films.

Additional fan-favorites include Despicable Me Minion Mayhem where you join Gru, his daughters and the minions for a

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efore visiting Universal Studios Hollywood, download the easy-to-follow Plan Your Day Guide with recommended itineraries to avoid being overwhelmed upon arrival. It has lots of great tips from a suggested packing list including waterproof bags, hats, sunscreen, and jackets as well as insiders’ information for making the most of your day. www.universalstudioshollywood.com/plan-your-day Next, download the park map so you can locate all the rides and attractions before finalizing the itinerary for your party. www.universalstudiosholly wood.com/park-map ere are a number of ticket options available. For locals, the 9-month California Neighbor Pass is valid for 175 days from your first visit and Gold Annual Pass for 343 days of return visits, which includes parking and other perks. ese are great not only for family fun days but movie-going and evening entertainment. And what better way is there to entertain out-of-towners who can purchase one- and two-day admissions.

For the ultimate celebrity treatment, the one-day VIP Experience has it all. Your day starts with valet parking and VIP entry and exit from the park. You’ll enjoy a light breakfast in the exclusive VIP lounge and a gourmet lunch prepared by Universal’s executive chef in the private VIP dining room.

Skilled VIP guides immerse you in the past, present and future of Universal Studios movie history and take you straight to the front of the line of all rides and attractions. You’ll tour the busiest sets aboard a special trolley and explore areas not open to the general public; visit sound stages where top-rated movies and TV shows are filmed; and view the massive Archive and Collections Department where Universal’s props, costumes, photos and documents are preserved for today’s and future generations.

If you are arriving from out of town and require accommodations, Universal Studios Hollywood has packages with a number of Preferred Hotels in and around the area. Book a Preferred Hotel package and receive early park admission to e Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ which begins one hour before the theme park opens. www.vacations.universal studioshollywood.com/site/welcome/4250/universal-studios-hollywoodhotel-ticket-packages. ❖

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD

Planning your day

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD

DAVID SPRAGUE/UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD

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SPRING CLEANING BY

ESTHER C. BLEUEL, MA, MFT, MDR

we’ve survived actual weather in Southern California and we’re into the New Year. I think it’s a good time to clean house. And, by that, I mean our emotional house.

THE HOLIDAYS ARE OVER,

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Author and research professor Brene Brown posted some thought-provoking questions on Facebook at the beginning of the year that I’d like to share with you.

What do I want more of in my life?

What makes me feel more alive? Braver?

Am I ready to let go of what’s no longer serving me?

“BECAUSE THERE ARE MANY THINGS IN LIFE WE CANNOT CONTROL - AND LIFE HAS NO GUARANTEES FLEXIBILITY AND PERSPECTIVE ARE CRUCIAL TO ACHIEVING THE QUALITY OF LIFE WE SEEK.”

Be prepared! ese are the kinds of issues that require time for reflection and the courage to defy the tyranny of the urgent at the expense of what’s important to improve the quality of your life. Superficial answers just won’t do!

I encourage you to choose one of these questions for now. And then to fully explore the issue, ask yourself why the issue is important to you and what would it look like if you embraced it. e pressures of daily life can easily consume our time, attention and energy.

We look forward to vacations, time away, distractions, play time and rest. e importance of having an occasional new and objective perspective of ourselves, our work and our lives cannot be overstated. In other words, check in with yourself.

See what’s working and what’s not working.

Starting with the end in mind is a good way to keep on track with what’s important. Work backwards. For instance, there is value in deciding, “What’s the meaning of my life? What is my legacy? What are the values that I hold dear? What is a good life for me?” Said another way, it’s hard to get “there” if you don’t know where you’re going.

I think that these need not be lifetime check-ins. ey could include more short-term issues such as, “What do I want the coming year to look like?” en comes the important challenge of balancing your intended end goals with truly enjoying the journey. ere is little point in determining and focusing on a specific destination if you miss out on the beauty and joy of getting there. ere is much to be said for “stopping to smell the roses.” Because there are many things in life we cannot control - and life has no guarantees - flexibility and perspective are crucial to achieving the quality of life we seek.

Make the quality of your life a priority and one that reflects what’s unique about you. Take the time to reflect and ponder one of these questions or one of your own. Don’t just settle for whatever happens. Choose and pursue what matters to you. Invest some time and attention in yourself because success is not an accident.

Not in business and not in our personal life.

It was also Brene Brown who said that it is not about what we can accomplish, but what we want to accomplish. I think that a little “spring cleaning” will go a long way in helping you to figure that out. ❖

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Instagram: TheAdventuresOfCamelliaN Facebook: The Adventures of Camellia N.

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SANTA BARBARA

SOARING EVERYONE DREAMS ABOUT FLYING. IT HAS BEEN ONE OF THE MAJOR PREOCCUPATIONS OF THE HUMAN MIND SINCE WE FIRST SAW A BIRD SOARING SILENTLY THROUGH THE AIR AND WISHED THAT WE COULD DO THE SAME. THE EXHILARATION OF SPEED; THE VIEW OF THE OPEN LANDSCAPE BELOW; THE FEELING OF FREEDOM - HOW COULD WE NOT BE JEALOUS?

BY PHOTOGRAPHY BY

BENNY HADDAD BENNY HADDAD

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y soaring journey started early on a Saturday. e drive up to Santa Ynez was free of traffic, the weather was beautiful, and I was able to enjoy watching the fog li over the Pacific Ocean. As I drove through Santa Barbara and over San Marcos Pass, the sky attained a deep blue with puffy white clouds promising stunning views.

Bill and his daughter Emily met me at the glider port that they have operated with Bill’s wife Gina since 2013 under the company name Santa Barbara Soaring. ey welcomed me in a relaxing, genial manner, which was much appreciated. I was their first passenger of the day and was lucky enough to get to spend some time talking about the mechanics of the flight, the cra I’d be riding in, and the background of my pilot and tour guide - aerospace engineer and fellow Virginian Paul Pruitt. While the last of the fog lied, Paul showed me the glider. e Schweizer SGS 2-32 is an exceptional American built glider prized for its’ ability to carry two passengers in the seat behind the pilot as well as its’ high performance profile. eir tours are easily and pleasantly shared with a partner.

Once the skies were clear, the tour began. Gliders are by their very nature an un-powered aircra. Climbing into the sky requires a tow. With Paul in the pilot’s seat and myself strapped in comfortably in the back seat, Bill attached a long lead to his plane and started pulling us down the runway. Before Bill made it off the ground, we were already airborne behind him. To be honest, the takeoff was much smoother than I expected. As we le the ground, the slight vibrations and sounds of rustling grass from the airfield were le behind, and we attained a smooth, quiet glide.

Because the gliders don’t have any engine noise, they are very quiet. e only sound you hear is the sound of air coming in through the vents that provide a comfortable airflow to keep you cool inside the

cockpit. Unlike the experience in a small propeller plane or helicopters, no headphones are required, and conversation is easily enjoyed at normal volumes. As we rose into the air, Bill banked le and towed us towards the coastal mountain range. At around 10,000 feet in altitude, and just over Reagan Ranch, Paul let me know to expect just the slightest dip forward, and the slightest bump. Just like that, without any fuss, we disconnected from the tow cable and were gliding on our own.

Paul was both an excellent pilot and knowledgeable tour guide. As he piloted the glider over the coastal range and back into the valley he kept up a comforting stream of information explaining the mechanics of the flight, how the thermals worked to raise us higher into the air to prolong our flight, as well as pointing out local landmarks, ranches, vineyards and stream beds. Paul started out keeping the glider as smooth and steady as the most nervous new customer could want. As we continued talking, he discovered that I’m a bit of an adrenaline junky and he started showing off a bit. As it turns out, Paul is an accomplished aerobatic pilot, and was happy to give me a bit of a rush.

I must say that I whooped it up a bit as he took me though a lazy-eight, and I had a giant grin on my face.

Alas, all good things must come to an end. As the tour ended, Paul let us slip back down to the runway. With a gentle bump, we touched down and ended our trip.

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I have to say, if you’ve never been in a glider, I absolutely recommend it. ere’s really nothing quite like it and the exhilaration of the flight is hard to capture in words. e unimpeded view provided by the glass cockpit dome of the glider, the silence, along with the ability to feel the turns, the dips, the climbs - this is the closest you’ll ever come to being one of those bird’s we’ve all watched wheeling and soaring through the Southern California skies. ❖

Santa Barbara Soaring 900 Airport Road Santa Ynez, CA 93464 (805) 688-2517 www.sbsoaring.com/home.html

“THERE’S REALLY NOTHING QUITE LIKE IT AND THE EXHILARATION OF THE FLIGHT IS HARD TO CAPTURE IN WORDS.” - Benny Haddad -

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WINE SAFARI BY

JULIE CARLSON

“

MOST PEOPLE DON'T HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY

to go to Africa on a safari," said Roniet Berci, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, of why someone should visit Saddlerock Ranch and Malibu Wine Safaris. “It’s as close as you can get to exotic animals and being outdoors on the ranch all while embracing the environment.” CQ Nestled amid the wild valleys and rugged hills of the Santa Monica Mountains, Saddlerock Ranch is a unique place where visitors can go on an adventure of a lifetime. Saddlerock Ranch and Malibu Family Wines, owned by the Semler Family, has a storied history, just like the 1,000-acre property that their vineyards sit upon. e property is more than 300 years old and was purchased by Ron and Lisa Semler in 1978. roughout the years, the family has started many successful business ventures on the property, and they reside there as well.

Aer the Agoura-Malibu firestorm swept through the area, the Semler's bought the land and began boarding horses on the property in the 1980s. ey had a successful avocado distribution company until a drought affected their crops. e family started anew with vineyards as well as animals: zebras, camels,

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“DRIVERS AND TOUR GUIDES TAKE GUESTS THROUGH THE BACK ROADS OF THE RANCH WHILE PROVIDING A DIALOGUE OF THE HISTORY OF SADDLEROCK, THE SEMLER FAMILY, AND VINEYARDS.”

llamas, alpacas, buffalo, a giraffe, and more. Many of the animals were born on the ranch, adopted, or raised in captivity, and have been in the Hollywood industry.

What do wine and safaris have in common? “eir son, Dakota Semler started Malibu Wine Safari just over three years ago aer being inspired by their family trips to African safaris,” explained Berci. “e family has had animals on the ranch for more than 30 years as well as the vineyards so his vision was a fluid one into Malibu Wine Safaris.” CQ e company offers a large array of tours both for families and for the over 21 crowd. e most popular tours are the Explorer Tour and the Giraffe Tour.

On the latter tour, guests meet resident friendly star Stanley the Giraffe, who was formerly trained in films.

Guests sip on the best of Saddlerock and Semler wines - three reds and three whites and nibble on tasty tapenades - all while exploring scenic stop-offs to learn more about the animals and how to interact with them. If guests are interested in bringing children, Malibu Wine Safaris offers a Family Tour for ages 7 and up.

Lemonade is provided to the youngsters. e company also has a Vintner Tour where guests can taste eight varieties of wine, and on the weekends there is a Mimosa Tour. Semler purchases the wines through his father's winery.

Tour vehicles consist of various truck sizes: 9-seater, 12-seater and 21-seater. e Explorer Tour is $65 per person and lasts 90 minutes. e Giraffe Tour is $95 per person and is 105 minutes. e Family Tour is an hour at $55 per person. All of them include beverages and cheese and crackers. Malibu Wine Safaris is open Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Drivers and tour guides take guests through the back roads of the ranch while providing a dialogue of the history of Saddlerock, the Semler Family, and vineyards. ere’s even an archeological site of caves with drawings from the Chumash tribe, who years ago lived in the area. Guests should wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Visitors can also view Lisa Semler’s artwork throughout the ranch. e animals are cared for by a caring staff which includes a manager of hoofstock; two animal husbandry staff members; and local vet Dr. Stephen Klause, who works with the Greater Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Caltech

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On the Giraffe Tour, guests meet resident friendly star Stanley the Giraffe, who was formerly trained in films.

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and Moorpark College – Teaching Zoo. Saddlerock also has 40 full-time ranch hands who assist with the animals and live on the property.

June 21st is World Giraffe Day, an event to celebrate the longest-necked animal. Malibu Wine Safaris has a close relationship with the Giraffe Conservation Foundation in Africa to help raise awareness for the Red List of reatened giraffes of which only 100,000 remain in the wilds of Africa.

A special celebration will be held at Saddlerock Ranch, featuring guest speakers and educational documentary films on these gentle giants. e Semler’s son, Shane, owns Malibu Wine Hikes and Saddlerock Gardens. Saddlerock Ranch also hosts weddings and other special events, and is available for filming locations.

“We’re so close to Los Angeles, but it’s an easy getaway for a few hours. We also put a lot of time and effort into our wines," said Berci. "We're very proud of that.” ❖

Malibu Wine Safaris Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area 32111 Mulholland Hwy., Malibu, CA 90265 (818) 497-2206 www.lasafaris.com

GET YOUR WINE ON. IN THE WILD...

TRY MALIBU'S BEST WINES.

MEET MALIBU'S MOST PHOTOGRAPHED.

WHAT TO DO AFTER THE SAFARI?

Explore the 1,000 acre Saddlerock Ranch and vineyard in Malibu.

Your trusty guide and driver team will lead the adventure on custom-built open-air Safari vehicles.

You'll make stops along the way to take in the scenery, taste local wines, and get up close and personal with animals you never knew were Angelinos too: zebras, camels, alpacas, bison, and even Stanley the Giraffe - all just 30 minutes from LA.

From Bisous to Zinfandel, we have the wines to make your palette scream for more. All of our wines are sourced from local vineyards, featuring the tastes and flavors of the casual wine-making culture alive in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Many of our exotics came to Saddlerock Ranch to retire after successful careers in Hollywood. Meet them in person and up close! From Timon and Pumba to Speeder and Shui, everyone on the Ranch welcomes you with open hooves. This is assuming you have a healthy handful of carrots, pellets, or bananas (provided).

Hit the Malibu Wines tasting room!

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And, tell all of your friends of course! You'll be the trendsetter for sharing the secret of Malibu Wine Safaris. Boom. Look at you, getting cooler.

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AMELIA EARHART LANDED HERE

THE SANTA BARBARA AIRPORT IS AS MUCH OF A TRAVEL EXPERIENCE AS IT IS A STUDY IN ART AND ARCHITECTURE.

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n 1914 during the era of stunt pilots and barnstormers, American aviator Lincoln Beachey flew his aircra over the Goleta Valley, landing the locale on the map.

Two years later, brothers Malcolm and Allan Loughead — later of Lockheed fame — began building seaplanes on nearby State Street, not far from the site an airport would eventually be constructed. Aeronautics manufacturing soon caught on, spurring growth within the industry. As a result, a small runway would be

Ready for take off: A glamorous passenger poses in front of the airport in 1947.

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built into a full-fledged airfield. In the coming years, legendary aviatrix Amelia Earhart would draw spectators by the hundreds when she landed there in 1937. Its military history began in 1942, when the city of Santa Barbara leased the airport and its land to the United States Navy Marine Corps for flight training. e Marines would purchase additional land there, building Santa Barbara’s first Marine Corps Air Station.

Santa Barbara Airport Director, Hazel Johns, says, “Our airport has a long aviation history, beginning with the first runway that was constructed in 1929. In 1936, United Airlines started service out of Santa Barbara and in 1942, United built what is now our historic terminal. at same 7,000 square-foot terminal was used consistently from 1942 until the summer of 2009 when our expansion project began.

Even today pilots comment on how it feels more like a beautiful piece of architecture than it does an airport. ere’s still very much a feeling of ease when you pass through it. You get the sea breeze and the sunshine — it’s a peaceful way of flying.” e entire restoration process would take two years and

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ERIKA THOMAS PHOTOS COURTESY OF

SANTA BARBARA AIRPORT

AVIATRIX AMELIA EARHART AFTER LANDING AT THE SANTA BARBARA AIRPORT IN 1937. WITH RECORD-BREAKING SKILLS MATCHING THAT OF AVIATOR CHARLES LINDBERGH, EARHART EARNED HERSELF THE MONIKER “LADY LINDY.” WWW.S O CA LL I FE MAG .CO M

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Glass jet bridges optimize the experience of passengers, allowing them to take in the beautiful scenery while entering and exiting the plane.

included a painstaking dismantling of the historic terminal, which would be placed at a different location on the property. e total cost was less than 55 million — a modest number compared to similar projects. ere were specific orders from Santa Barbara’s three architectural review boards that the new terminal, like the historic one, must be Spanish Revival and must have a red tile roof. e board also specified that the old terminal must be a chief part of the new design.

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ocal artists were hired to create period specific painted stencils, kelp-inspired wrought iron banisters and a 360-degree mosaic inlay for the terminal floor — all in keeping with the airport’s original look and feel. An enormous lantern that hung in the Santa Barbara County Courthouse during the 1930s, was restored for the new terminal. Muralist Channing Peake’s “Fiesta” that once graced the city’s famed El Paseo Mexican Restaurant would undergo a full restoration to be displayed in the lobby. Contemporary additions such as glass jet bridges (Santa Barbara was only the second airport in the U.S. to be approved for them) were also installed.

Retired architect Fred Sweeney was part of the 12person design team assembled for the restoration.

Sweeney, who created more than 300 initial drawings, says, “It used to be when you entered through the front door of the historic terminal, you could walk straight through and have a perfect view of the planes. To meet safety regulations while preserving that experience, we created a secure patio for the same kind of viewing encounter. Another aspect was the smell of orange blossoms. From the time the airport was built, the walkway directly outside the terminal was lined with orange trees, which had a wonderful aroma. We wanted to plant the same type tree, but it had been brought to our attention that oranges attract bees and many people are allergic to their sting.”

Landscape architect Pamela Burton located a type of tree that produced the same fragrance as the ones from the 1940s — minus the oranges. Also in keeping with the

landscaping of the early days, Burton created a large, drought resistant lawn space. Sweeney says, “Space-wise, we had the advantage of being able to push it back from the street. Now it’s just like the old days; UCSB students can still come find a spot on the grass to relax before a flight.”

Although there was much inspiration throughout the entire project, still, Sweeney says that his came from one thing in particular. “I have great memories of taking summer day trips to San Francisco and returning back to Santa Barbara. When you walk off of the plane and the door opens, you get the warm ocean air and the palm trees. ere’s a sweet aroma. You’ve got views of the Santa Ynez Mountains to the north and Goleta Beach to the south. I wanted to recreate the feeling that when you land, you know you’ve arrived in Santa Barbara.” ❖

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“LOCAL ARTISTS WERE HIRED TO CREATE PERIOD SPECIFIC PAINTED STENCILS, KELP-INSPIRED WROUGHT IRON BANISTERS AND A 360-DEGREE MOSAIC INLAY FOR THE TERMINAL FLOOR.” A lively Channing Peake mural placed near the escalators makes for easy viewing and enjoyment.

A newly-opened Santa Barbara Airport in 2011 after the twoyear renovation and expansion.

A seaplane manufactured by the Loughead Brothers, circa 1914. It's been said that, tired of their last name constantly being mispronounced as "Log Head," the brothers would officially change it to "Lockheed," after establishing their aeronautics company.

Marine Torpedo Bomber Squadron #143 in front of the United terminal in 1943. Restored to its 1940s-era glory, today the terminal is a popular spot for private events, including wedding receptions and military remembrance ceremonies. Historic architecture and an array memorabilia on permanent display add to its nostalgic appeal.

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THE GOURMAND

CULINARY FIGHT

CLUB BY

ROBYN FLANS

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“RATATOUILLE.” THAT’S WHAT STARTED IT ALL.

JIWON

McCARTNEY’S KIDS - NOW AGES 8, 6 AND 15 WERE WATCHING THE MOVIE AND THE MESSAGE RESONATED.

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F YOU PUT YOUR MIND TO IT, YOU

can do anything you want to do,” McCartney says.

While trying to come up for an event concept for a client for her successful company, Allure Event and Meeting Productions, McCartney began to think about “Top Chef” and Gordon Ramsay.

Along with the inspiration of the Academy Award winning children’s movie to spark her “anyone can cook” idea and her background in the food and beverage industry, McCartney’s competitive nature fueled the birth of Culinary Fight Club.

“When you have corporations who want to have events and meetings, it’s very cookie cutter,” McCartney says. “You don’t have a lot of creativity.

So when people come to me with social events, that’s when I flourish.”

In November, 2013, one week prior to anksgiving, three judges adjudicated stuffing

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made by three chefs at Chicago’s Blokes & Birds Restaurants with 25 hand-picked guests in attendance. “e energy in the room was amazing,” McCartney says. e winner was chosen for having bacon as his special ingredient. at’s one of the models of Culinary Fight Club.

Chefs are furnished with 15 ingredients to make the dish of the day, but are allowed to bring three of their own ingredients to the event. ey have 60 minutes to create a gourmet plate-up. ere are also other special features at each event.

Sometimes there is a pantry-run that McCartney describes as a 50-yard dash.

“It’s hilarious,” McCartney says. “When you get an executive chef at Michael Jordan Steakhouse running for his pantry, that’s pretty funny.”

Judges and attendees get to vote on the competitors who range from home cooks to executive chefs. “e judge is judging on flavor, content and creativity,” McCartney says. e first 100 registrants have the opportunity to taste the cuisine and vote for the “Taster’s Choice,” which McCartney says promotes lots of dialogue between the guests. e event runs three hours from start to finish with a minimum of three chefs.

Winners are later invited to participate in Culinary Fight Fests where they can win cash prizes and those regional winners will go on to compete in the Ultimate Challenge.

“OUR WISH IS TO HAVE ONE CULINARY FIGHT CLUB CITY IN EVERY STATE.” - Jiwon McCartney -

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er that premier event, they had another in December and with popularity it has grown. At the third event in January, 2014, McCartney decided to charge $15 per ticket so she could donate 20% of each ticket and launch her idea of partnering with a non-profit to feed the hungry in Chicago.

When each charity she approached presented so much red tape, McCartney decided she would simply start her own. Fight2Feed was up and running by March, 2014.

Mobilizing a team, they began to feed those in need living in tents, under the underpass. On October 14 they held their first Fight2Feed Mission at Chicago’s Hard Rock Cafe. “e kitchen staff came in for free and there were 100 volunteers, the Culinary Fight Club,” McCartney says. “e Red Cross came out. Our promise is to do this once a month.”

McCartney says she is now able to help with toiletries and other sundries and the rewards are tenfold, in smiles and hugs.

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She is also rewarded in her personal life with her children’s involvement. ey have not only learned about giving by example, but they are hands on with the organization.

“I think it’s important,” she says.

“It’s something we’re missing in our traditions and home life. I try to ground them.

I’m Korean and my husband is British.

Neither one of us was born in this country and we were raised differently. Especially my side - we did everything as a family. We went to church together. We spent every summer, every weekend together.

We were like 100 people in the house. My kids don’t see their cousins. It’s important to me that they see they have to suffer. I don’t mean suffering, but bite the bullet when you live in this world.”

McCartney says when anyone asks where they are going, it is always one of two places - Culinary Fight Club or Fight2Feed.

“I’m proud of that because they know exactly what those things are and why those things happen,” she says.

On October 14, McCartney is challenging one city in all 50 states to have a Fight2Feed Mission.

“Where they feed one meal to the hungry on that same day,” McCartney says.

She has a lot of plans. Now in 17 markets, McCartney says they are still growing.

“Our wish is to have one culinary fight club city in every state,” McCartney says.

“All the chefs are executive chefs of restaurants that will have to take their burger and showcase that burger in that restaurant until the end of July,” McCartney explains. “And they have to submit that burger recipe to the Blended Burger Project for the James Beard for the contest of the blended burger project.”

Judge’s Choice will receive a golden ticket to the 2017 World Food Championship, an invitation to the 2017 Culinary Fight Fest, a Culinary Fight Club chef coat trophy and $300. Taster’s Choice will receive a cleaver and $100.

Does McCartney think ratatouille will ever be the food challenge at one of the competitions? She laughs. “at’s is a very good question. at just might work for one of our Ultimate Challenges.” ❖

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@berthamaesbrownieco

| 8 1 8 .4 8 6 .0 4 3 2 @berthamaes

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SOCAL CANINE THERAPY BY

CAROLINE WARDLEY

Animals are valued companions and healers, holding a special place in our hearts. Anyone who has ever owned a pet (or pets) knows the pure joy they bring to our lives. Over the years research has found that animals can also be used for therapeutic purposes. Animal erapy (AAT), also called “Pet erapy” resulted in patients having lower blood pressure or decreased stress levels. Regardless of age, a visit from a furry friend is sure to foster smiles and upli spirits. ere are a number of growing organizations that recognize pet’s powerful healing capabilities with the goal being to touch the lives of those in need. Here are five of our favorites in Southern California.

Paws 4 healing is an all-volunteer and non-profit organization that provides animal-assisted activities and therapy services. e organization is focused on unleashing love with chapters in Santa Clarita, Los Angeles and San Diego County and seven others throughout Southern California.

Volunteer members and their pets attend events such as conferences, fairs, parades, and expos in order to meet and share the benefits of animal therapy. “We are dedicated to the healing of mind, body, and spirit through the unconditional love of our pets,” says President Donna Martin-Casey.

Paws 4 Healing has close to 170 members and registered pets that visit hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, schools, children’s centers and battered women’s homes. love on a leash is another organization providing pet therapy. ey have a variety of facilities and locations and are passionate about spreading their mission - “Love on a Leash is committed to bringing comfort, happiness, and healing to more people nationwide by increasing public awareness of pet-provided therapy.” e headquarters are in San Diego but their impressive 2,000 members have visited nearly every state with animal care dogs, cats and bunnies, giving us a little reminder there is always somebunny to love!

We all have those days where the only thing that can brighten our day is a four-legged, furry friend. For people struggling with mental illness or physical pain, sometimes the best part of their day is the visit from a Paws & hearts dog, adorably nicknamed a Canine Ambassador. Aside

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“PANDA USES THERAPY DOGS TO HELP COMFORT CHILD VICTIMS OF SEXUAL ASSAULT AND ABUSE WHILE THEY MEET WITH OCDA STAFF TO PREPARE FOR THEIR CASES AND TRIAL.”

from the fact that dogs happiness is contagious, they can also provide a motivation for patients in therapy or allow them to forget they’re in the hospital. Paws & Hearts consists of 2-legged and 4-legged teams serving the entire Coachella Valley. love on 4 Paws is a non-profit that focuses on making a positive difference in the lives of adults and children. eir passion is demonstrated through visits to adult health care facilities and special needs children’s hospitals throughout the greater Los Angeles area. Created by Sharlene Lauretz in 1997, the goal of the organization is to spread joy, comfort and healing power through pet’s love. e Love On 4 Paws website shares testimonials of encounters between patients and pets.

One letter reads: Just a note of thanks for the wonderful job your owners and dog s are doing . My son Sean, age 12, was diag nosed with leuk emia in April. During his in-patient visits at CHLA he has truly enjoyed the Love on 4 Paws visits.

Attached is a picture of Chase visiting Sean yesterday.

I'm saving all the photos tak en since Sean's diag nosis. Thanks to the dog gies, later in his life when he lo oks back at the photos, there will be some g o od memories during his recovery.

Wishing your foundation all the best. Thanks a million!

Maria

When the mom of little Sean is thanking an organization for the “good memories” during her son’s battle with cancer, you know Love on 4 Paws is doing nothing but good things.

While on the topic of spreading good into otherwise difficult situations, the Orange County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OCSPCA) provides multiple Animal Assisted erapy Programs. eir Pets are a wonderful Support (PawS) program visits and focuses on people in nursing homes, psychiatric hospitals, hospice and children’s homes. PAWS also joined with the Orange County District Attorney’s Office to form PANDA, which uses erapy Dogs to help comfort child victims of sexual assault and abuse while they meet with OCDA staff to prepare for their cases and trial. ese organizations and many alike are instrumental in reaching those who might benefit from pet-provided therapy. e outcome being visits from loveable pets that bring joy, relief and smiles back to into people’s lives and dog-gone it, that is a beautiful thing! ❖

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KATIE GIBBS PHOTO (2)

CicLAvia, which advocates car-free streets, held a major bike ride event in March that passed

by Platform.

Creativity can appear anywhere on the city's commercial buildings.

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CULVER CITY:

SPF STUDIOS

THE HOOD

WHERE INNOVATION RULES BY

LINDA LANG

Artwork featuring the days of Desilu Studios reveals its own tales.

Tours of Sony Studios include visits to soundstages of iconic films like “The Wizard of Oz" and "Spiderman" and hit TV shows such as “Jeopardy!” and “Wheel of Fortune.”

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KATIE GIBBS PHOTO

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ulver City is where the past and the future meet in the present. Bordering the Westside on the north and Marina del Rey to the west, this is the birthplace of some of Hollywood's greatest films and TV shows of today and yesterday. "Gone with the Wind", "Singin' in the Rain", "North by Northwest", "Showboat", "elma & Louise" and dozens of other classics were made at the former MGM Studios - now Sony Pictures Studios, and the Culver Studios, founded by silent movie pioneer omas Ince, and also once owned by icons Cecil B. DeMille, David O. Selznik, Pathe Studios and Desilu. Early TV hits included "e Andy Griffith Show", "Lassie", "Batman", "e Nanny", "Deal or No Deal" and endless others. Today, Culver City continues as a major entertainment capital turning out major TV hits and blockbuster movies.

Its creativity is not limited to the entertainment industry. Once home to Hughes Aircra and the Spruce Goose (1932-1985) and Helms Bakery (1931-1969), Culver City is also a magnet for visionaries in the business, architectural, arts, retail, and culinary worlds.

In what was once a destitute neighborhood of drugs and decaying industrial buildings stands hayden tract, one of today's most exciting central Los Angeles locations. Just 10 minutes south of Rodeo Drive, 15 minutes from Venice, and 20 minutes from downtown, it was originally considered an architectural oddity of 31 eclectic buildings designed by local architect Eric Owen Moss. His assemblage of inimitable structures continues to be a mecca for architectural devotees worldwide.

Today, Hayden Tract is also home to trend-setting media, advertising and real estate firms. e vision shared by Moss and his client, developers Frederick and Laurie Samitaur Smith, was to inspire economic and social change through architecture and grow vibrant communities around this innovative hub. ere was no master plan, government subsidy or political influence, making the idea quite laughable at the time.

Still, the Samitaur Smiths and Moss believed this area could be reborn entirely with private financing, and despite all the guffaws, that's precisely what they did.

Moss' more recent works include the 72-foot high Samitaur tower that serves as the tract’s iconic welcoming structure. Unlike commercial digital billboards, the angled screens on the tower's curved façade broadcasts information on local events and non-commercial art and graphics. Near the tower stands the waffle, Moss' undulating structure with bulging windows and a sagging mid-section that looks overly endowed with love handles.

Titles of other buildings also represent their atypical looks with

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: 1. The 72-foot high Samitaur Tower designed by Eric Owen Moss serves as Hayden Tract's welcoming structure. 2. The Mansion, the first Culver Studios building completed by founder Thomas Ince in 1918,

remains the studio's signature structure. 3. Displays include photos from Cecil B DeMille's "King of Kings" filmed in 1927. 4. Photogenics Media has a distinctive entrance. 5. The Culver Studios offer rental space for private events as well as motion picture, TV and other productions. 6. Gregory Davis Landscaping occupies a uniquely-designed corner of the building. 7. The Waffle is Moss' undulating structure with bulging windows and a sagging mid-section that looks overly endowed with love handles.

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COURTESY OF BISON ARCHIVES

“...CULVER CITY IS ALSO A MAGNET FOR VISIONARIES IN THE BUSINESS, ARCHITECTURAL, ARTS, RETAIL, AND CULINARY WORLDS.”

SPF STUDIOS

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CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT: 8. David O. Selznick was also once an The Culver Studios. 9. Movie history's

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COURTESY OF THE LA PUBLIC LIBRARY

SPF STUDIOS

KATIE GIBBS PHOTO

KATIE GIBBS PHOTO (2)

owner of great moments include this script from "Gone with the Wind." 10. Roberta's, a renowned pizzeria from Brooklyn chose Platform for its first extended West Coast lease. 11. Next door to the new Expo Line station is Platform, Runyon Group's signature retail center in the Hayden Tract. 12. Loqui is a trendy new restaurant featuring handmade Mexican street food in the Platform center. 13. Rabbit Ladders is a popular children's shop at Platform. 14. Platform tenants are carefully curated to uphold the center's distinctive image of creative expression and innovation. 15. Westfield Culver City is the city's more traditional shopping center on Sepulveda Blvd. by the 405.

names such as the Stealth, Beehive, and e Box defining their irregular façades, twisted angles, and other singular abstract features.

In 2010, thirty-somethings David Fishbein and Joseph Miller formed Runyon Group, a full-service real estate company also dedicated to creating neighborhoods that serve not only the basic needs but provide an imaginative contrast to the traditional mall that would attract both locals and visitors. And, like Samitaur Smiths, so they did. In addition to owning and managing high-end real estate projects, Runyon provides advisory services to other developers, helping to shape the city’s brand. Today, the area is drawing visitors from all over the southland - the destination made easier to access with the new Expo Line's stop at 8817 Washington Blvd. connecting downtown Los Angeles to Santa Monica.

Next door to the station is Platform, Runyon's signature retail center in the Hayden Tract, which opened last year in a three-story building with colorful murals enhancing its one-of-a-kind corrugated metal façade. Retail spaces are carefully curated and leased to innovative first-to-market designers, specialty retailers, art galleries, chef-driven eateries and other companies, forming what many consider the new center of Los Angeles trend-setters and cult-favorite merchants. Some call it Los Angeles’ "top capsule of cool."

At Platform, you'll find Bird, Magasin, Poketo, Freda Salvador, São Acai, Aesop and foodie favorites including e Cannibal, Sweetgreen and Loqui. London-based Linda Farrow's optical brand opened its first North American flagship store here and Kilter, a new men's athletic street wear brand, recently opened its first-ever store in Platform. Space is also allocated for select, short-term tenants and special events which can range from pre-Oscar parties to seasonal art presentations by companies such as Tappan Collective, an online platform for discovering and presenting original artwork by emerging talent. www.platformla.com Also in anticipation of the continuing creative influx, Expo Line and other forms of public transportation, downtown Culver City has recently undergone another major rebirth, and developers are still eyeing locations around the city for new office buildings, apartments, and multi-use structures. New restaurants, shops and businesses are appearing in a city that is no longer totally automobile-reliant.

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Cherished landmarks include the historic Culver eatre, now the Kirk Douglas eatre, and e Culver Hotel, a wedgeshaped Renaissance Revival-style structure.

It became a recognizable set in early films, and stars including Red Skelton, Clark Gable, Ronald Regan and Joan Crawford had part-time residences here. Today, it is a protected City Landmark. westfield Culver City, adjacent to the 405 freeway at Sepulveda and Slauson, is the city's more traditional shopping center which opened in 1975. Here you'll find 181 retailers including a 156,000-square-foot Target, Nordstrom Rack, Macy’s, Best Buy, H&M, XXI Forever, Sephora and Hollister along with a great offering of trendy restaurants. For little ones, there are Smarte Carte and self-serve strollers, Westfield PlaySpace where they can climb and explore a spacious play area with animal characters and large puzzles, and Westfield Family Lounge with private nursing and baby-changing stations where you and the kids can take a break and enjoy TV and toys. Kid-friendly dining with scaled-down tables and chairs is also available in a special area on the dining terrace. Got an electric car? You can charge that at one of two charging stations.

Recently opened stores include M.A.C Cosmetics, e.l.f. Cosmetics, PERVERSE sunglasses, Piercing Pagoda, California Fish Grill and Azabu Sabo. Soon to arrive are Sickhouse, offering all-natural Italian handcraed gelato and sorbetto and Wokcano featuring a tasting tour of Asian cuisines. www.westfield.com/culvercity Visit www.discoverlosangeles.com for more information on things to do and places to stay. For studio tours, go to www.sonypictures studiostours.com. For information on production facilities, sound

stages, screening room, and holding conferences and social events at e Culver Studios, check out www.culverstudios.com. ❖

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CAST-OFF COUTURE:

SOCAL’S DESIGNER RESALE AND VINTAGE CLOTHING BOUTIQUES BY

JENNI KEATS

Prada, Chanel or St. Laurent?

So many shoes. So hard to choose.

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VER WONDER WHAT HAPPENS WHEN MONEYED FASHIONISTAS GROW WEARY

of their $12,000 vintage 60s Chanel gown or their $1,200 Valentino Garavani “Russian Ballet” scarf? Or when a washed-up career sends celebs from the A list to the D list?

Well, as the saying goes, when times get tough, the tough unload their Louboutin … or their Lanvin.

Consider that your magic moment. Because if you’re savvy enough to know where to unearth such a cache of castaway couture — for a fraction of the original cost — then that cement walk from your driveway to your car could soon resemble the runway in Milan during Fashion Week.

To help all you lovers of Lavigne, fans of Fendi and devotees of Dior, we have “the list.” Here, spanning five counties, are a few of the upscale designer resale and vintage clothing boutiques that are worth a visit.

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Renaissance owner Joann Younger in a “little something” she picked up in Paris—a private label $6500 couture gown that sold for $1500 in her boutique.

Necklace designed by Christian Lacroix.

JENNI KEAST

Chew on this this … a pair of purple dressy sandals from Jimmy Choo.

Two mortgage payments or this stunning $4500 Chanel coat? Hmm. So hard to choose.

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

JENNI KEAST

designers. Consignment only.

It’s that magical mix of “location, location, location” meets provenance — complete with exposed beams, oriental rugs and fabulous art. at’s what every store proprietor with impeccable taste and fashion breeding wants — and the lovely Joanne Younger is lucky enough to live in a city with the “right” clientele to appreciate such things. Ditto the kind of tourists who walk through her door. A $4,200 Chanel belted tweed coat? No problem. An $800 Mary McFadden gown to brighten your day?

It’s in the bag. at’s chump change compared to the original price of these designer duds.

But don’t be too depressed if the only kind of “coco" you can afford is the kind you mix with milk on a frosty morning.

While haute couture is alive and well at the Renaissance Boutique in Santa Barbara, so are designers for the rest of us.

Tory Burch, Helmut Lang, Diane von Furstenberg and Kate Spade are all there for a song — and sometimes only a verse or two when you find these designers’ creations on Renaissance’s sale rack. DISTINCTIVES: Stunning location, beautifully decorated store and personable hands-on owner with a friendly and knowledgeable staff. www.renaissancecorp.com H

JENNI KEAST

BOUTIQUE: Renaissance Fine Consignment, Santa Barbara TYPE: Contemporary and vintage high-end and mid-level

“I went to a garden party” and this is what I wore. A magnificent 60s silk and tulle floral creation by Leonard.

Oh yes, you’ll love shopping here!

Experience Renaissance … where designer magic happens.

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TO - D O - L I ST The Way We Wore: Enter all ye who dare to be beautiful.

BOUTIQUE: e Way We Wore, Hancock Park TYPE: Contemporary and vintage high-end designers. No consignments.

It’s no surprise that Los Angeles has more high-end designer resale and vintage boutiques than a Beverly Hills pooch has fleas. (Wait, they don’t get fleas!) But if we could only pick one on the uber-upper-end scale, then e Way We Wore designer vintage boutique fits the bill. Known as THE arbiter of Los Angeles and international fashion, owner and curator Doris Raymond is also the star of her Smithsonian Channel docu-reality series, L.A. Frock Stars.

Translated: She knows vintage haute couture. Moreover, she’s dedicated to help make you look good.

Love 40s films and the stars that shined in them? en channel your inner Loretta Young with one of her dresses — a stunning 60s Jean-Louis gold paisley patterned gown and turban for $1,200. Have a figure that’s just made for a formfitting 80s jumpsuit — with cutouts? en take that $2,500 you were going to spend on something as mundane as your mortgage and show up to the party with Sarli — the Italian designer who fashioned a heavily embellished vintage 90s sheer jumpsuit, perhaps worn by Elizabeth Taylor or Mona Belluci.

For those with champagne tastes without the bubbly (cash), take heart.

Raymond has recently launched an online boutique for the common folk: Voguely Familiar. ere, you can pick up one-of-a-kind vintage, designer and contemporary fashion items for $99 and under. Such a deal! DISTINCTIVES: Iconic items, frequented by designers and celebs, online shopping and personalized service.

Paisley perfection – Velvet paisley dress with matching turban, dress.

Owned by Loretta Young and designed by her husband, famed designer Jean Louis.

www.thewaywewore.com

Doris Raymond, owner of The Way We Wore and star of the Smithsonian Channel’s docu-reality show, LA Frocks stuns in this vintage 60s beadedon-silk gown with an ostrich feather boa.

Completing the look is a pair of 1920s Prince Nez eyeglasses worn on a necklace.

Slam, glam, thank you mam’m!

Pretty vintage costume jewelry to drool over.

SUSAN ANDERSON

Look summer sassy in this stunning green silk twill floral gown

by Arnold Scassi.

Bodice is made of large faux daisy heads!

BOUTIQUE: MS Vintage, Playa del Rey TYPE: High-end vintage, both couture brands and unlabeled one-of-kind items. No consignments.

MS Vintage Storefront – with a stunning dress!

Have you been injured by a poor fashion choice? Experienced loss or emotional suffering as the result of acquiring a piece of designer vintage clothing that simply didn’t suit you? en call and speak to the law firm of Sabrina, Marsha, Ziggy and eo, a.k.a. MS Vintage. ey can help.

Owners Marsha and Sabrina may be music industry lawyers, but they’re also vintage clothing purveyors, headquartering their dual careers in one fun, artsy location — Playa del Rey. eir collection ranges all over the vintage fashion map … from a Chanel necklace, to a rare pair of Maison Martin Margiela sneakers, to a VERY rare unbranded French military jacket, to … well, check out the photos on their Facebook page and you’ll see for yourself! DISTINCTIVES: Artistic integrity, a non-salesy manner, men’s clothing, furnishings and personalized service. www.msvintage.net

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TO - D O - L I ST Your one stop tee shop … including some Lululemon.

Come grab some!

Designer Purses Adoption Center: Chanel and Coach on the couch — just waiting for their new owners. You?

JENNI KEAST

Louis Vuitton strikes gold with these high-drama boots, while Louboutin lavishes a woman’s foot with floral love.

And Jeffrey Campbell’s Havana platforms are just plain out there!

VENTURA COUNTY selling and trades.

Can’t do without your Choo? Wish that Chanel would be less chummy with Los Angeles and strike up a relationship with the Channel Islands? Don’t despair! Pre-loved Jimmy and Coco can both be found at this laid-back designer resale boutique in Ventura County — along with Christian Louboutin and more egalitarian brands such as hippie-glam Free People and funky Jeffrey Campbell — both of whom are loved by boholeaning Millennials. Second Sight’s owner, Danielle Pardee, offers the designer-loving women of Westlake Village and the surrounding areas a way to avoid crazy Los Angeles traffic, hipster overkill and parking woes. is store is more befitting sleepy Ventura County than the purported second largest fashion capital of the world (Los Angeles), so don’t expect to be wowed by gowns you’d see in a Parisian store window, or a Hollywood celebrity’s red carpet castoff. However, the owner’s fashion choices are well culled and more affordable to the fashionista on a budget. DISTINCTIVES: Personalized service, friendly staff and three big sales a year.

JENNI KEAST

BOUTIQUE: Love at Second Sight, Westlake Village TYPE: Contemporary high-end and mid-level designers. Consignment,

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Designer clothes for every budget at Love at Second Sight.

Great looking leather jacket by J. Brand

Hermes 1957 blouse paired with vintage Pierre Cardin sunglasses and Dobbs hat.

Tres stylin!

Vintage Chanel linen top paired with a 30s cotton gauze skirt and vintage offwhite cotton/linen duster coat. These ladies know how to put it together!

A Les Bernard necklace with an 80s Jose Cotel runway belt from Paris. Oooh, I want one mommy!

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100 years in Tibet.

Can you pull off a century-old coat?

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You’ll feel like a rockstar in this black and turquoise rockstud purse from Valentino.

ORANGE COUNTY BOUTIQUE: Bellissima, Corona del Mar TYPE: Contemporary. Consignment only.

St. John Knits lovers rejoice — there’s a mecca for you. Hidden away in Corona del Mar is a gem of a designer resale consignment shop — run by haute couture “saint” Adriana Spitzer, former international designer consultant for Nordstrom and a St. John Knits specialist for more than 16 years. But St. John isn’t all that this terrific boutique carries — designers such as Chanel (Coco has her own special section), Hermes, Commes des Garcons and Balenciaga are all well represented here — and well taken care of. As one loyal Bellissima customer remarked, “It’s hard to tell that anything here was pre-owned — it all looks brand-new!” DISTINCTIVES: Largest collection of St. John Knits anywhere, layaway and highly personalized service.

La lovely … charming store with great designer finds inside!

www.bellissimaconsignment.com

Inside the mecca for St. John … and many other couture designers offered at Bellissima.

Inside La Femme Chic – très beau!

At home, or out and about this silk kimono top from Max Mara rocks!

Does your closet look like this? It could … by shopping resale at La Femme Chic.

Owner Adrianna Spitzer holding a Chanel wool tweed black-and-white jacket available in Bellissima’s special Chanel section.

All St John all the time. Largest collection anywhere is to be found right here — in its own special section.

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LA FEMME CHIC

Couture sneakers.

Chanel tennis shoes, similar to Karl Langerfeld's Chanel 2012/2013 Cruise Collection.

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Fend off ugly purse syndrome with this classic Fendi summer tote.

Ralph Lauren crochet blouse. So pretty. So femme. So fetching for summer.

One peep, and it’s the spikes for you, Mister!

Seriously, hard to resist this pair of Louboutin spiked aqua patent peep-toe heels.

SAN DIEGO BOUTIQUE: La Femme Chic, Solano Beach TYPE: Contemporary and vintage. Consignment only.

Shop. Consign. Love. at’s the motto at Le Femme Chic, and they’re sticking to it — with high sticker prices for high-end designer goodies, but far below what you’d pay for them right out of the box. Really, if you can snatch up a vintage gold chain-and-leather Chanel belt for under a grand and Christian Louboutin spiked aqua patent peeptoe heels for under $600 in primo condition, then why not? ey’ve got spikes!

Kidding aside, there are some serious bargains to be had at this truly upscale consignment boutique located in the charming Cedros District of Solano Beach. Louis Vuitton, Coach, James Perse, Splendid, DVF and Chanel — they’re all there. So when you’re ready to procure some couture for your well-outfitted closet, don’t overlook this treasure trove of tantalizing pre-loved designer wear.

DISTINCTIVES: Beautiful location, helpful staff and a request list. www.lafemmechicconsignment.com ❖

Spartacus would envy these Valentino Rockstud gladiator sandals.

(Looks great with a toga.)

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FA M I LY F U N

WATER BY

ROBYN FLANS

PLAY

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, WHERE THE WEATHER IS BEAUTIFUL YEARROUND, WATER PLAY IS A NO-BRAINER AT SO MANY FUN WATER PARKS. BE SURE TO CHECK THE WEBSITES BECAUSE THEY HAVE VARIOUS MAY THROUGH JUNE OPENING DATES.

LOS ANGELES

w RAGING WATERS is touted as California’s largest water park with 50 acres of more water rides than any other water park in Southern California and also has its own sand beach. Highlights include Aqua Rocket which combines the action of a roller coaster and the thrill of a water ride; Drop Out, a slide with one of the tallest vertical drops in the country; and under Rapids, a 14foot-wide flume propelling a five-person ra.

111 Raging Waters Dr., San Dimas www.ragingwaters.com

w One of the largest water parks in Los Angeles is the tropical-themed HURRICANE HARBOR. e park features 10 water slides and includes a giant wave pool, family ra ride, lazy relaxing river, tube rides and high-speed body slides. A top highlight is the Black Snake Summit, two side-by-side terrors that curl around each other in long and winding routes of slithering thrills. Touted as the tallest enclosed water slides in Southern California, you will whip around 500 feet curves and turns at 75 feet high.

26101 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia www.sixflags.com/hurricaneharborla

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w With its pirate theme, BUCCANEER BAY SPLASH LA MIRADA is for the younger set and features three

water slides, a children’s interactive play structure, a zerodepth beach entry and two spray pad areas. A marooned ship, skull rock, cannon walls and wharf plank benches are some of the pirate fun that can be explored.

13806 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada www.splashlamirada.com/buccaneer-bay

w CASITAS WATER ADVENTURE has two distinct playgrounds, one for younger children with a multi-level jungle gym comprised of waterfalls, bridges and slides in a lagoon with water up to 18” deep, as well as family rides for the entire family.

11311 Santa Ana Road, Ventura www.casitaswater.org

w At CASTLEPARK, there are dozens of interactive water elements including five water slides, water tunnels, spray cannons and lots of water play at Buccaneer Cove, in addition to the amusement park and miniature golf.

3500 Polk Street, Riverside www.castlepark.com H

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ORANGE COUNTY

w e first and only California indoor water park resort is a vacation destination at the GREAT WOLF LODGE in Garden Grove. With more than 105,000 square feet of indoor water park activities including a wipeout surf simulator, is a wave pool and so much more.

12681 Harbor Blvd., Garden Grove www.greatwolf.com/southern-california

w In 2017, SOAK CITY will be expanding and debuting two water slide towers to include Shore Break, which will tower over seven stories and offer six different water slide adventures. e Wedge slide tower will be an open-air family ra ride. Old favorites include the 750,000 gallon wave pool and exciting rides like Old Man Falls where you lie on your back and slide from 63 feet, or Banzai Falls, six multi-lane slides where riders plunge head first on a mat from a platform that is more than 41 feet high.

8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park www.soakcityoc.com

PALM SPRINGS w Formerly Soak City Palm Springs, WET ‘N’ WILD has an 800,000 gallon wave pool and

brings surfing to the desert with the Flowrider simulated surfing machine. Kahuna’s Beach House is a four-story family funhouse with water slides, hose jets, water curtains and more. It also has traditional slide rides.

1500 S. Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs www.wetnwildpalmsprings.com

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SAN DIEGO

w is summer LEGOLAND WATER PARK rolls out

a new competitive water raceway called Surfer’s Bay designed for children to compete against one another by jumping on a mat and racing down one of the six water slides in this California beach themed expansion. e area includes a new spray ground with multiple water jets splashing on and off for a great place to cool off. For an additional fee, any Legoland ticket can be upgraded to include the water park where you can build your own Lego ra before you go floating down the stream. ere are plenty of kids activities and Lego interaction with the water fun.

1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad www.legoland.com/california/legoland-water-park

MIKE AGUILERA-SEAWORLD® SAN DIEGO (2)

w rill-seekers will love the HooRoo Run at AQUATICA, which

offers an 80-foot drop down on two enclosed and two open air slides. e Kiwi Curl offers a choice of three different slides with lots of twists and turns at high speeds with one of them in the dark.

2052 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista www.aquaticabyseaworld.com

w THE WAVE WATERPARK

has a slide tower made up of four slides - the Salsa Twist, Tubulation, Flash Flood and Slam Dunk. ere is a simulated wave and a competition pool for lap swimming, among other attractions.

101 Wave Drive, Vista www.thewavewaterpark.com

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12 Month Pr int Pl us Di g i t al S u bsc r i p ti on (6 i ssu es ) $ 19 . 99

Get the bimonthly print edition of Southern California Life magazine to discover the hidden treasures of Southern California. From entertainment and recreation options, events, points of interest and profile features, Southern California Life magazine serves as a guide for residents and visitors to live, travel, and discover the Southern region of the Golden State.Â

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THE WEEKENDER

PUERTO A S H O R T D I S TA N C E BY

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MONIQUE REIDY

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THE WEEKENDER

O VALLARTA B U T A W O R L D A WA Y

COURTESY OF VILLA PREMIERE

Hotel view from the beach

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A short distance away on the hills is the town of Conchas Chinas, an affluent community just south of Puerto Vallarta, with spectacular ocean views and gated properties. is “Beverly Hills of Vallarta” features opulent homes, some with as many as 16 bedrooms. Also nearby is Nuevo Vallarta, with more than three miles of sandy beaches, it is best known for its luxury villas, golf courses and luxury resorts.

Snorkeling, scuba diving, zip-lining, hot-air ballooning, shopping and eating are just a few of the activities available in Puerto Vallarta. Most of these activities can be booked directly through the services scattered through town or through a hotel concierge. e variety of entertainment options are exciting to Vallarta visitors, although most people come to simply relax.

One of the unique spots in which travelers can unwind is Puerto Vallarta’s adults-only, all-inclusive, Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel & Romantic Getaway, recognized as an AAA Four Diamond property for 2017. is luxury resort will make sure visitors slip into a tranquil zone the minute they step onto the property. Guests are handed a glass of champagne and a cool towel and hauled off for

F YOU’RE THE “I’M TOO BUSY TO RELAX”

type, you may want to check out a destination just a short 3-hour flight from Los Angeles.

Puerto Vallarta, known for its balmy beaches, authentic gastronomy and rich culture is the ideal long-weekend getaway for anyone seeking a tranquil escape.

A Mexican beach resort city situated on the Pacific Ocean's Bahía de Banderas, Puerto Vallarta’s charm is pronounced everywhere – from its narrow cobblestone streets to its consistently friendly locals. e region is busiest from November to March with travelers originating primarily from Canada and the U.S., while the rest of the year is populated with domestic vacationers. One note of interest to non-Spanish speaking visitors is that most of the locals speak English quite well. e town, located in the State of Jalisco (which is famously known as the birthplace of tequila), is named aer Ignacio Vallarta, one of its former governors. e State has the third-richest economy in the Mexican Republic and more than 30 of Mexico’s most substantial companies are based there.

Vallarta, as the residents call it, is comprised of a variety of neighborhoods each with its own unique character. It gained its prominence, in part, thanks to the movie “e Night of the Iguana” which was filmed there in 1964 by American director John Huston. e media, as it is oen known to do, gave extensive coverage to the extramarital affair that was transpiring between Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton as well as the conflict surrounding Huston and four of his cast-members. Shot in Mismaloya, a small town just south of Puerto Vallarta, the film and its surrounding off-screen drama lured tourists to the town where the scandals took place. Today, a statue honoring Taylor and Burton is prominent at the Kimberly House, a nine-suite boutique hotel, which was the residence where the celebrities spent much of their time during production of the film.

Just steps away from the Kimberly House is Olas Altas, a trendy neighborhood comprised of shops, bars, hotels, beachside restaurants, coffee shops and night clubs. e town of Malecon features a renowned art district with a variety of galleries featuring native artifacts and it is also where the famous Church of Guadalupe with its bell tower can be found. Malecon offers amazing views of Banderas Bay, and in the center of town the main plaza attracts tourists who stroll along the boardwalk enjoying the fresh ocean breeze and iconic statues such as the Los Arcos. While there, a meal at Café Des Artistes is highly recommended. Recognized as one of the best restaurants in Mexico, Café Des Artistes features a romantic setting with an outdoor garden where guests can dine on the terrace while they enjoy live music and an exquisite menu.

View from La Ceiba Restaurant

Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel & Romantic Getaway Facebook: www.facebook.com/VillaPremiereHotel Instagram: instagram.com/villapremiere Twitter: twitter.com/villa_premiere Website: www.premiereonline.com.mx To book online, visit: www.premiereonline.com.mx or call Toll free: 1 (877) 886- 9176

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Cafe Des Artiste

COURTESY OF VILLA PREMIERE

Villa Premiere Front Desk

Panga Boat at Villa Premiere

Elizabeth Taylor & Richard Burton's favorite restaurant

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Puerto Vallarta Art Gallery

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THE WEEKENDER Cafe Des Artiste - Tofu

a 5-minute massage to help diffuse any stress they may have brought along. e clean and contemporary style lends to the calm ambiance and most of the furnishings are handmade by Mexican artisans; the glass décor by Tonala, fabrics by Huechol and rugs by Guanajuato accent the property’s fashionable flavor. Guest rooms, hallways and the lobby feature paintings of Panga boats, which are simple, open fishing boats still in use by Mexican fishermen. ese boats are made from one piece of wood from the Parota, a native tree, and a full-size one is on display on the property at La Ceiba beach-front restaurant. illa Premiere features 83 luxurious oceanfront rooms and five categories: Deluxe, Premiere, Honeymoon, Spa and Master suites. All rooms feature upscale L’Occitane amenities, free wireless internet, minibars, bathrobes, slippers and most important for all caffeine-lovers, a designer coffee-maker. A pillow and scent menu is offered upon checkin and personalized butler service is provided to accommodate each guest’s needs – from a simple in-room meal delivery request to preparing a candle-lit jacuzzi bath. Daily yoga on the beach and a fitness center help guests keep up their work-out routines while traveling and a spa and quiet pool help them uncoil.

For visitors traveling with kids, there are two sister properties available: e Buenaventura Grand, located right next door to Villa Premiere, and Hacienda Ventura, a short distance from the two.

V

Villa Premiere guests can access all the services and restaurants available at the two other linked resorts, equally impressive but with a single attribute missing at Villa Premiere: children.

Villa Premiere has three gourmet-dining restaurants on the property — La Ceiba, which offers an International cuisine for breakfast and lunch, and two restaurants for dinner: Murales, featuring a traditional Mexican cuisine and La Corona. All meals at Villa Premiere and its sister properties are conceptualized by Chef Antonio (Tony) Martínez, a 27-year old culinary genius whose mantra is: “nourish not only the body, but the soul, as well.”

In addition to his exceptional talent craing delicious traditional meals, Martínez also has a passion for molecular cuisine, which is now an International foodie trend. He not only designs each item on the menu, he also teaches Mexican cuisine at the resorts. Along with General Manager, Alessandro Stifani and Rooms Manager, Marco Gordon, the staff are not only delightful but help to make guests feel comfortable and appreciated.

A stay at Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel & Romantic Getaway is an ideal complement to any vacation in Puerto Vallarta. Aer a day exploring this culture-rich town, guests can wander back to the hotel for superb pampering and relaxation.

Although just a short distance from Southern California, a getaway to Puerto Vallarta can help diffuse and rejuvenate the most stressed-out traveler, even if a long weekend is all one can spare. But just a warning: One visit and guests are hooked and booked to return again and again. ❖

Puerto Vallarta cobblestone streets

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COURTESY OF VILLA PREMIERE

Villa Premiere Chefs

Finding Senior Housing can be complex, but it doesn’t have to be.

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– Joan Lunden

Call A Place for Mom. Our Advisors are trusted, local experts who can help you understand your options. Since 2000, we’ve helped over one million families fi nd senior living solutions that meet their unique needs.

A Free Service for Families.

Call: (844) 296-6733 A Place for Mom is the nation’s largest senior living referral information service. We do not own, operate, endorse or recommend any senior living community. We are paid by partner communities, so our services are completely free to families.

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MAY/ JUNE

DOHENY BLUES FESTIVAL IN DANA POINT May 20-21

BY JANINE GO LDBER G

dohenybluesfestival.com

t Fans of Blues won’t want to miss this event with a lineup that includes Robin Trowers, JJ Grey & Mofro, Ronnie Earl and more. The festival will have three stages, more than 50 booths, microbrew tasting, and a Kidz EcoFest area.

THE BBQ AND CRAFT BREWS FESTIVAL IN LOS ANGELES May 5-7 bbqandbeerfestival.com

t The Second Annual BBQ & Beer Festival will feature mouthwatering BBQ, live entertainment, a large Kid Zone and handcrafted brew straight from the local breweries themselves.

Ventura County’s Women United group, this is a day of raising women’s voices to improve our community.

Tackett. Held to benefit disadvantaged youth in the area, the festivities will include poker, music and dancing, wine tasting and games. The winery offers sprawling views of the surrounding mountains and outdoor activities.

OC GREEK FEST May 19-21 MALIBU GUITAR FESTIVAL May 18-21 malibuguitarfestival.com

foods and information on local businesses, along with activities for children.

WOMEN UNITED 1ST ANNUAL LUNCHEON IN THOUSAND OAKS May 18

t Paying homage to the Rolling Stones, this four-day celebration benefits several charities, and boasts a lineup featuring Mick Fleetwood Blues Band and Steve Vai. The first two nights will take place at Casa Escobar and the latter two days will rock Malibu Village on Cross Creek Rd.

ocgreekfest.com

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Celebrate Greek music, food, dancing and culture at this festival. The event features Greek vendors with authentic Greek food and pastries, traditional Greek dancing, and a Kidz Zone with rides.

vcunitedway.org

FULLERTON RAILROAD DAYS May 6 -7 fullertontrainmuseum.org t

Railroad Days is a free community event where families of all ages can look at how the train has evolved over time from the earliest cars to current models. The fair will have booths with

THE 20TH ANNUAL CALABASAS FINE ARTS FESTIVAL May 6-7 calabasasartscouncil.com

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This artisan festival features more than 150 painters, jewelers, potters, sculptors, photographers, glass artists, woodworkers and more.

There will fine dining, gourmet food trucks, and live musical performances.

t Keynote Speaker Lateefah Simon joins local women leaders for an inspiring luncheon to make a bigger impact in Ventura County.

A nationally recognized advocate for civil rights, Lateefah brings more than 20 years of executive experience advancing opportunities for low-income communities in the Bay Area.

Hosted by United Way of

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SAFETY HARBOR KIDS CONCERT AND POKER PARTY IN OJAI May 19 safetyharborkids.org

t Topa Mountain Winery plays host to this event which will feature a Texas Hold ‘Em poker tournament and a concert by world-renowned guitar duo Paul Barrere and Fred

34TH ANNUAL STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL IN OXNARD May 20-21 castrawberryfestival.org

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This is a great way to kick off the summer with a homage to strawberries, with more than 50 vendors selling

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FIESTA HERMOSA May 27-29 fiestahermosa.net

t Fiesta Hermosa is the largest arts and crafts fair in SoCal, featuring more than 300 artists, live music on two stages, a food court, Charity Beer and Wine Garden, a Kiddie Carnival, and a mommy zone called the Fiesta Siesta. There is a free shuttle bus and bike valet.

a different variety of foods with strawberries, contests such as berry trivia, strawberry pie eating contests, music, kids area, and more.

booths, music, entertainment, and the best food and drink the Pass Area has to offer.

cultures and traditions from around the world. Admission is free from 4:00-8:00p.m.

TEMECULA VALLEY BALLOON AND WINE FESTIVAL June 2-4 tvbwf.com

SIMI VALLEY’S CAJUN AND BLUES MUSIC FESTIVAL May 27-28

t This festival will provide top-name live music and wine tasting, along with a Kids Faire, arts and crafts exhibits, food court, and hot air balloon rides.

simicajun.org

hollywoodfringe.org

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The festival includes a Mardi Gras Parade, live music, more than 150 styles of food, beverage, craft, and sponsor vendors, and the opportunity to learn the Cajun/Zydeco style of dance. All proceeds will be donated to charity.

BEAUMONT CHERRY FESTIVAL June 1-4 beaumontcherryfestival.org t

This four-day celebration will feature games, rides,

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL June 9-26

FREE FAMILY NIGHT AT KIDSPACE MUSEUM June 6 kidspacemuseum.org

t Families can engage with special programming and performers that highlight

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t The Hollywood Fringe Festival is an open-access, community-derived event celebrating freedom of expression and collaboration in the performing arts community. There will be fully equipped theaters, parks, clubs, churches, restaurants and other unexpected places host hundreds of productions by local, national, and international arts companies and independent performers.

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LOMPOC’S FLOWER FESTIVAL June 21-25

SANTA BARBARA WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL June 24 sbnature.org

t The 2017 Santa Barbara Wine and Food Festival™ will take place along the banks of Mission Creek at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. Mingle with winemakers, bakers, and chefs in the sunshine, under the oak trees. Guests will enjoy the best of Central Coast Wines and try their luck in the raffle. VIP tickets are available.

SANCOCHO LATIN MUSIC, DANCE AND FOOD FESTIVAL June 10

explorelompoc.com

t The Flower Festival is themed “Small Town, Big Heart” and will feature carnival rides and games, commercial vendors, food booths, musical entertainment, arts & craft exhibitors, a flower parade and fun for the whole family.

Bring your lawn chair or blanket to relax in the lawn and enjoy the show.

featuring an all-star lineup as well as food and wine vendors.

cadero. One-of-a-kind eateries open their doors for food lovers to enjoy a sample of each restaurant’s most popular dishes, including appetizers, entrees, desserts and beverages. This is your opportunity to get a taste from every restaurant in Little Italy all in one night.

TASTE OF ITALY IN SAN DIEGO June 14

CLASSIC CARS AND FOOD TRUCKS AT CAMARILLO RANCH HOUSE June 29

sanchofestival.com

BRITISH CAR SHOW AT AUTOMOBILE DRIVING MUSEUM June 10 automobiledrivingmuseum.org t

Join car enthusiasts for a day saluting British cars.

Show award categories include Best 1948-1960; Best 1961-1975; Best 1976-1990; Best 1991-Now; Best in Show; and People’s Choice. Music will be provided by the OC British Invaders.

Come out and enjoy live music from performers and cultures across Latin America, watch live dance performances and enjoy food from across Latin American culture.

PLAYBOY JAZZ FESTIVAL June 11-12 hollywoodbowl.com

t Hosted by George Lopez and the LA Philharmonic,

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littleitalysd.com

t Walk along Little Italy’s charming flower and treelined sidewalks enjoying bites from San Diego’s top eatery hub, all while enjoying live music scattered throughout the 48-squareblock neighborhood and spectacular views of San Diego’s sparkling embar-

camarilloranchhouse.org

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Visitors can come out and enjoy the beautiful surroundings at the Camarillo Ranch House while gazing at 15 beautiful class cars and tasting the fine nibbles offered by 12 food trucks.

Admission is free. ❖

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SOOO CAL

“YOU CALL THIS

A STORM?” BY

R

SCOTT HARRIS

change her mind.

She then mentioned that people here are focused on themselves.

I took that to mean self-centered, but “not at all,” she said. She meant in small towns, people are too nosy and too concerned about their neighbors. Gossip runs rampant. You’re expected to live a certain way, attend the “right” church and so on. Here, people just live.

And, of course, the weather. As she pointed out, what we took as a huge storm — with news channels screaming “Storm Watch!”, businesses closing, and multiple accidents on our freeways and surface streets — was, to her, “just rain.”

Coincidentally, I just spent a few days in South Carolina. I found much to love about the state: it’s beauty, charm, and a feeling of depth and permanence. My wife and I discussed how fun it would be to live there for a year or two. I imagine the attraction of different parts of the country has much to do with perspective and the “grass being greener,” which helps to make new feel good.

But in the end, SoCal, for all its quirkiness and oddities, is still the place to be. e young lady, as we wrapped up our conversation, pointed out that there is no way she could go back. In large part, because of the various reasons and observations listed above, but it was her closing statement that I thought most nobly — and accurately — depicted Southern California.

“Here, there is a place for everyone.”

Aer looking at it through her eyes, I am reminded that my place is right here. ❖

ECENTLY, WHILE THE BIGGEST STORM WE

have seen in Southern California in years was pounding down on our office building, many of us were commenting on how strong the storm was. A young woman, a new member of the team, turned to us in all sincerity and asked, incredulously, “You call this a storm?”

She recently moved here from South Carolina and loves living in SoCal. But, as she points out with surprise, multiple times per week, Southern California is different than South Carolina, and maybe anywhere else.

I thought it would be fun to see SoCal through the eyes of one of California’s newest residents, so I asked her about the preconceptions she moved here with and what has struck her the most since she arrived.

Wealth. She knew it was here, having read about it and seen it on TV, but was floored by the sheer number of people living here who would have qualified as rich in her home state. When I asked what she meant by “wealth,” the first thing she said was, “Ferraris.”

Everywhere you look (I guess if you’re looking for them), she sees Ferraris — something she never saw back home. is, apparently, is the standard for “extreme wealth.”

Beauty. e people, the homes, the mountains and the beaches.

She tied beauty to wealth and said it’s amazing to be surrounded by so much. She described thinking of Southern California as whimsical and a happy place and has found nothing since she’s been here to

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MY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

NEWPORT PIER in Newport Beach

BEN McBEE IS A FREELANCE JOURNALIST BASED IN HUNTINGTON BEACH WITH EXPERIENCE WRITING AND

photographing for editorial publications across many genres, including sports, food, travel and wildlife. The possibility for variety is what initially drew McBee to journalism; to review a five-star restaurant one day and trek a rugged hiking trail the next is what keeps things fresh. Originally from Oregon, he is constantly searching for new adventures in Southern California’s natural areas, which helps him feel right at home. Through the lens and with his words, he strives to capture the essence of his subjects to tell vibrant and engaging stories. For more of his work, please visit www.benmcbeephoto.com.

BEN McBEE

While people around the world may only associate Southern California with the glitz and glamour of Hollywood or the laid back attitude of sunny San Diego, SoCal has so much more to offer. Just outside of its celebrated urban centers, it is a rugged place, a place of extremes, with hot red rock deserts, cold-water pacific islands with wild kelp beds, and snow capped mountain peaks.

At least, that’s how I see Southern California. How do you see it? We want to know! We at Southern California Life magazine are devoted to showing you all that it has to offer. We’ll close each issue showcasing the beauty of our region, with its landscapes, and landmarks. And we want you, our readers, to participate. For a chance to be published on our “My Southern California” photo page, follow us on Instagram (@socallifemag) and use these hashtags in your favorite photos of the landscapes, landmarks, and lifestyles that you think define our home:

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HOUSTON, TX

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