Southern California Life_ Nov.Dec2017

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NOV/DEC 2017

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y M Is hitting the waves in the morning‌

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CO N T E N TS

Features NOV/DEC 2017

F E AT U R E S

52/

EXTRA HOST

MARIO LOPEZ LIFE WITH FAMILY, FAITH, FOOD, FITNESS AND FUN

By Robyn Flans

COURTESY OF THE PASADENA TOURNAMENT OF ROSES

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The City of Alhambra saluted fire fighters in the 2017 parade.

BOXING CHAMP AND “HOME MADE SIMPLE’S”

LAILA ALI

By Robyn Flans

70/

MELISSA RIVERS

ON LAUGHTER, TEARS AND ILLUSTRIOUS MOM, JOAN RIVERS

By Robyn Flans O N THE COVE R

34/

80/

BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE

TOURNAMENT OF ROSES® PARADE

By Linda Lang

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BEVERLY HILLS

PRESENTS UNPRECEDENTED HOLIDAY LIGHT DISPLAYS

By Linda Lang

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CO N T E N TS

Departments NOV/DEC 2017

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28/

AROHA Duck Breast

A floor-to-ceiling wooden ark, filled to the rafters with fancifully handcrafted animals, awaits visitors aboard Noah’s Ark at the Skirball.

12/ AFFAIRS TO REMEMBER

75/

Fall In Love With Fashion

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

16/ SIGNATURES & LANDMARKS

L.A’s Legendary Heritage Square Museum

By Sheryl Nance-Nash

20/ ENCHANTING ESCAPES

Deck the Halls Far And Away

By Linda Lang

28/ SO CAL CULTURE

Getting To Know The Skirball Cultural Center: Now & Beyond

By Imaan Jalali

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41/ TRENDING TALK

Find Meaning & Purpose In The Holidays

By Esther C. Bleuel, MA, MFT, MDR

The Third Street Promenade has emerged as a premier open-air pedestrian shopping and foodie paradise.

44/ FAB FINDS

66/

‘Tis The Season For Gifts

90/ 75/ FIVE FAVES

Holiday Happenings: Parades That Light Up The Night

By Julie Carlson

82/ THE HOOD

The Many Faces Of Santa Monica

By Linda Lang

48/ OFF THE BEATEN PATH

88/ TO-DO-LIST

56/ BUBBLES & BREWS

90/ FAMILY FUN

ADAMSON HOUSE Malibu’s Historic Gem

By Mary Noe Tune In To So Cal’s Karaoke Bar

By Dustin Clendenen

64/ RESTAURANT RAVES AROHA New Zealand Cuisine And Bar

By Monique Reidy

66/ THE GOURMAND

Irish Chef Gemma Stafford

By Jenni Keast

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Dare To Escape From The Ultimate Escape Rooms

By Nicole Pollastrini

Skypark at Santa’s Village Transports Visitors Into An Authentic Woodsy Village Filled With Adventure And Old Holiday Charm

By Robyn Flans

94/ CALENDAR

Events And Happenings

98/ SOOO CAL

Holy Days And Holidays

By Scott Harris

C E L E B R A T E

D I S C O V E R

EDITORIAL

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

DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

SHERYL NANCE-NASH

BENNY HADDAD

SPORTS & "SOOO CAL” EDITOR

COPY EDITOR

LINDA LANG

SCOTT HARRIS

ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR

STYLE & BEAUTY EDITOR

IMAAN JALALI

PUBLISHER & PRESIDENT

MONIQUE REIDY SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, SALES & DIGITAL PLATFORMS

HEIDI WOOD-BROWN DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS & CIRCULATION

NICOLE POLLASTRINI

NICOLE POLLASTRINI

COMMUNICATION & ADVICE EDITOR

TRAVEL EDITOR

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE

STEVE BLIMAN

LINDA LANG

ESTHER BLEUEL

SALES & STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

VANESSA SHAPIRO

JULIE CARLSON, DUSTIN CLENDENEN, MARY NOE, JENNI KEAST, KARMA CHRISTINE SALVATO

I DO BOOKS 4 YOU • WESTLAKE VILLAGE

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

CIRCULATION CONSULTANT

BOOKKEEPER

DOUG BITTO

ERICA GODDARD

LEGAL COUNSEL

INTERNS

KASEY HAMILTON, SABRINA GIBSON, MONIQUE GO, ALONDRA GOMEZ-LEYVA, BENICIA LIE

EDWARD COREY, ESQ. ADVISORY BOARD

H O L I D A Y

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

I S S U E

C EL EBRATE DISCOVER EXPERIENCE

On the Cover:

YOUR OFFICIAL TICKET TO THE

TOURNAMENT OF ROSES PARADE

SHARP SEATING® For cover story see page 34.

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NOV/DEC 2017

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE MAGAZINE

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

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

FALL IN LOVE WITH

FASHION

FALL IN LOVE WITH FASHION CHARITY EVENT benefitted the American Heart Association of Orange County and helped create awareness of heart disease and the fact that it is preventable. The event was held September 21 at the Renaissance Sports Club in Aliso Viejo, California.

Jennifer Shultz, Founder and CEO of Jennifer Shultz Style produced and styled the FALL IN LOVE WITH FASHION CHARITY EVENT. The show featured models who are moms, CEOs, as well as professionals on the runway so that the women in the audience can relate to them.

Featured styles presented were International Celebrity Designer, Cheri Elizabeth, Mia Brazilia and International, Award-Winning buyer Chadia Almeddin owner of Betinnis.

Shultz wore a luxury gown straight from New York Fashion Week Runway by Designer Ionica Moldovianu.

Hair and Makeup for all models was provided by V SALON in Laguna Beach.

For more information visit: JENNIFERSHULTZSTYLE.COM

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

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FROM THE PUBLISHER / EDITOR.IN.CHIEF

MONIQUE REIDY

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OST OF US REALIZE THAT HAVING A GRATEFUL OUTLOOK SERVES ONE

well on many levels. Gratitude helps us recognize our abundant blessings, raises us out of the occasional slump and helps us view past and future events with a constructive attitude. It takes but a few minutes in the presence of ungrateful individuals to realize that ingratitude can turn people into bitter downers who are uncomfortable around any hint of positivity. Unappreciative people don’t enjoy being around the upbeat set, who in turn, generally prefer to avoid their negativity anyway.

Since this season is primarily devoted to thanksgiving and celebration, it’s always interesting to observe those with deep appreciation in contrast to those who can only focus on what they lack.

Downers who concentrate on what they don’t have seem to continue to experience deficits, while those who count their blessings seem to experience more of them. The holidays never fail to underscore that truth.

Gratitude has been an important lesson for me this year as I’ve watched close friends and family members endure monumental challenges. The year kicked off with my then 2-month old grandbaby enduring cardiac surgery that resulted in a 10-week stay at Children’s Hospital. As 2017 wraps up, I’m watching a dear friend struggle to take her last painful breaths as she loses her battle with lung cancer. Through both these events and the many others in between, I have realized that I always have two attitude options: To dwell on the bleak, seemingly hopeless circumstances or to find the blessings buried in each situation.

As the old saying goes, “there is always something to be thankful for,” even when a grandbaby is undergoing life-threatening open-heart surgery. Appreciation for skilled physicians, a daughter and son-in-law with strong faith and the existing technology that makes the life-saving procedure possible is a start. (And of course, I’m immensely grateful that baby Sage has fully recovered.)

In the case of my friend, I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to know such a gifted woman (who taught me to make the best puffed pancakes ever — now a family tradition on Christmas morning for more than 25 years) and that we shared a longtime friendship. Hearing her recount how blessed she is and that she’s grateful for all that God has done for her as she gasps for air on her deathbed, is nothing short of humbling.

In the spirit of this thanksgiving season, I’d like to thank you, our reader, and express how much it means to me that you pick up our magazine and honor us with your precious time. May we all continue to realize how truly blessed we are, and grow to be ever more grateful.

Warmest holiday wishes to you and yours,

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FIND YOUR FREEDOM

Breathtaking only begins to define the experience at this intimate, Bahamian island paradise.

For more information about The Cove, contact your Smartflyer Travel Advisor, Newport@Smartflyer.com

thecoveeleuthera.com 800.704.7682

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

The Perry House

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

L.A’S LEGENDARY

HERITAGE SQUARE MUSEUM BY

SHERYL NANCE-NASH

WITH THE MEGA METROPOLIS LOS ANGELES HAS BECOME, IT

can be hard to envision what life was once like there. That’s what is special about the Heritage Square Museum. You can take a walk back in time to the end of the 19th century.

“The museum is a gem of a destination. You get a sense of what early Los Angeles looked like. You learn about the styles, décor. You get an education in history and tradition,” says Kori Capaldi, executive director of Heritage Square Museum.

Since the early 1970s, the museum has acquired and restored nine buildings that are architecturally significant and capture a period of time, and placed them on gorgeous grounds. Capaldi explains the importance, “They were slated to be demolished to make way for commercial buildings and apartments.”

A group of Los Angeles’ movers and shakers, along with the Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Board, began crafting a vision for what would become the Heritage Square Museum. The Cultural Heritage Foundation of Southern California, a nonprofit, was created to raise money to relocate endangered buildings.

How are the buildings chosen? “There’s not much debate. Usually it’s someone that was famous; the architecture is distinguished.

We get calls asking us to take a building. But financial backing is needed.

It’s not just about moving a house, but restoring, plumbing, engineering and the ongoing maintenance; you’re talking hundreds of thousands of dollars,” says Capaldi.

There are many stories attached to the buildings. Take, for example, the Perry Residence. The largest house at the museum was built in 1876 by lumber bigwig William Hayes Perry. The house was designed by E.F. Kysor, a famous architect. The home highlights the classic Greek Revival Italianate style, with the outward sweep of the entrance stairway, the brackets under the eaves, slanted bay windows and narrow columns. For sure they likely got a lot of oohs and ahhs over the marble fireplace and

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

top-notch hardwood floors. According to the museum, the home was one of the finest and most expensive in Los Angeles at the time.

Capaldi shares insider knowledge, “The Perrys spent a lot of effort making the home look like it did. They were not as wealthy as you might have presumed given their home. Victorian families saw material belongings as representing wealth, whereas during the arts and crafts period, it was about simple décor and a simple life,” says Capaldi.

T

he Hale House is one of the favorites of the 15,00020,000 visitors they typically get a year, according to Capaldi. The home of James and Bessie Hale was built in 1887 by George W. Morgan, a land speculator and real estate developer, not far from the museum. “It’s multi-colored, nine different colors. If you go inside, it’s decorated to the max. Victorians are about décor – lamps, furniture, footstools, rockers. It’s fully furnished. You feel like you’re stepping into someone’s home.”

Capaldi says Hale was a railroad man, and they were typical working people.

Not every building has been renovated. “The Octagon house is in the same condition as when we got it. We want people to be able to see the juxtaposition of the Hale House and this one. The Octagon house’s floors are worn; you’ll see some exposed wiring,” she says.

Capaldi calls the museum a “living museum”. You’ll see people in period dress and much attention is paid to detail.

There are events and programs that recreate the era. The Vintage Fashion Show and Tea, Silent and Classic Movie Nights are popular, as are the annual Holiday Lamplight Celebration, the Halloween and Mourning tours, where you can experience the death and mourning rituals of the Victorian Era. Just so you know, Victorians were big on seances, so you might see that first hand.

The Holiday Lamplight Celebration is much like a play.

On every stop on the tour, you get a piece of a story. “You may start at the first house and it’s 1874, and you see a very young girl. You go from house to house and see how the girl ages and progresses, and what she went through in life. It would be a story representative of what would likely being going on during that time. It’s a Cinderella type of story,” says Capaldi.

The program is scripted.

The Hale House

Or a story could be more specific. “Say we do a story that shows the Perry House in 1886. They’re having a Christmas Ball in honor of the graduation of William who graduated from U.C. Berkeley. We take a real story and embellish it a little bit,” says Capaldi.

Funds raised from events go directly to the restoration of the properties. The museum also hosts events like weddings, and corporate meetings to help bring in revenue.

While raising money is always a challenge, Heritage Square Museum is worth fighting for. “It’s a great experience for people interested in history and architecture. There aren’t many living history museums, period.” ❖

YOU MAY START AT THE FIRST HOUSE AND IT’S 1874, AND YOU SEE A VERY YOUNG GIRL. YOU GO FROM HOUSE TO HOUSE AND SEE HOW THE GIRL AGES AND PROGRESSES, AND WHAT SHE WENT THROUGH IN LIFE.

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ENCHANTING ESCAPES

COURTESY OF THE MISSION INN HOTEL & SPA

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is illuminated with 5 million lights each night during the holidays.

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ENCHANTING ESCAPES

DECK THE HALLS FAR AND AWAY BY

LINDA LANG

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THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS ABOUT TO

appear with twinkling lights decorating shops, streets, malls, neighborhoods and, of course, the fragrant aromas of roasting turkeys, cinnamon and pine scenting our festive homes. While many southlanders remain at home celebrating traditions with family and friends, some choose to meet with grandparents, aunts, uncles and long-time friends aboard a cruise ship, in a snow-covered mountain cabin, at a stylish resort or maybe just a lavish Christmas or New Year's Eve gala at a nearby hotel where the preparation is done for you and all you have to do is enjoy. H

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With all the grandeur of a majestic castle, The Grand Parisian Ballroom features a balcony for musicians typical of the great halls of Europe.

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ENCHANTING ESCAPES

One of several dining options, the awardwinning Mission Inn Restaurant features casual indoor and outdoor dining.

The hundreds of holiday displays throughout the resort include a lifesize gingerbread house replicating the architecture of the Mission.

Celebrating its 25th year, the Festival of Lights at the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa in Riverside is one of the nation's largest, most spectacular holiday light shows attracting more than 250,000 visitors annually.

Recently named “Best Public Lights Display in the Nation” by USA Today, festivities start November 24 and continue nightly for six weeks. The opening Switch On ceremony starts with the entire hotel being instantly illuminated by five million holiday lights followed by a stunning fireworks show and showering of confetti from the hotel’s century-old cannons.

Other highlights include 200 animated figures including angels, elves and Dickens carolers, elaborately-decorated Christmas trees, life-size gingerbread house replicating the architecture of the Mission, visits from Santa, horse-drawn carriage rides, freshly-fallen snow, and delectable holiday confections at renowned Casey’s Cupcakes. Options for those staying for a night or more in one of the AAA Four Diamond resort's 238 guestrooms and suites include the Sweet Dreams candy-themed suite with its own six-foot decorated tree, kid-friendly activities such as elf-tuckins and other amenities.

Festival of Lights is an annual gift to the community from owners Duane and Kelly Roberts, who saved the historic property from demolition in 1992.

Today, The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is both a National and State of California Historic Landmark, and as an acknowledgement of the resort's contributions to the community, the city of Riverside is entering a Mission Inn-inspired float in the 2018 Rose Parade.

For more information about the Festival of Lights and resort reservations, contact www.missioninn.com | 1.951.784.0300

The Amistad Room is one of the elegant suites at The Mission Inn Resort & Spa.

Recently named “Best Public Lights Display in the Nation” by USA Today, the Switch On ceremony ends with a spectacular fireworks display.

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COURTESY OF THE MISSION INN HOTEL & SPA

The outdoor pool and Jacuzzi are heated yearround.

25TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

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The Santa Barbara Canary's spectacular Glitz, Glam and Get Down rooftop gala with DJ Darla Bea is one of town's most anticipated New Year’s Eve events

COURTESY OF DOWNTOWN SANTA BARBARA

ENCHANTING ESCAPES

Santa Barbara is a town that loves to celebrate, and no season is packed with more festivities than the holidays. Hotels, restaurants, and business establishments along State Street, Paseo Nuevo, La Arcada and other quarters light up with festive decorations, strolling carolers, musicians, in-store activities, visits from Santa, and entertainment throughout the month.

The holidays kick off December 1 with the 65th Annual Downtown Santa Barbara Holiday Parade featuring marching bands, fabulous floats and performance groups. On December 3 is Snow Leopard Festival and Sledding at the Zoo featuring the endangered leopards, sledding down the zoo’s “mini-Himalayan” mountains, snow play area, photos with Santa and more. On December 8 is Una Noche de Las Posadas, a reenactment of Joseph and Mary’s search for lodging in Bethlehem as it was celebrated in Early California and still observed throughout Latin America.

On December 10, the 32nd Annual Parade of Lights is preceded by Santa's Village activities on the pier where all are invited to play in 10 tons of snow and take photos with Santa before the lighted boats parade around the harbor and the evening concludes with fireworks. Details for these and other events are at www.santabarbaraca.com.

Within walking distance of many downtown holiday events is the Santa Barbara Canary, a luxury Kimpton boutique hotel known for its rooftop pool panorama and Mediterranean-style touches including fountains, chandeliers and hand-painted tiles throughout the 97-room property.

Richly-decorated in holiday décor, the hotel is offering a special Chef’s Dinner and a Suite package for a four-person family, plus a series of holiday brunches leading up to its spectacular Glitz, Glam and Get Down New Year’s Eve rooftop gala featuring DJ Darla Bea. www.canarysantabarbara.com | 1.805.884.0300 H

Santa welcomes families to his village on the pier just before the Holiday Parade of Lights decorated boat parade.

Shopping areas such as Paseo Nuevo light up the city throughout the holiday season.

COURTESY OF VISIT SANTA BARBARA

COURTESY OF CANARY SANTA BARBARA (3)

CELEBRATING IN SANTA BARBARA

COURTESY OF SANTA BARBARA WATERFRONT DEPARTMENT

Around 65,000 are expected to attend the 65th Annual Downtown Santa Barbara Holiday December 3rd.

The hotel features 97 beautifullyappointed rooms and suites.

Santa Barbara Canary, a luxury Kimpton boutique hotel, is especially known for its rooftop pool and Mediterranean-style accents.

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ENCHANTING ESCAPES One-bedroom suites offer large living areas with every amenity.

Miles of trails await riders of all skill levels.

HOLIDAYS AT THE RANCH, DUDE

COURTESY OF ALISAL GUEST RANCH AND RESORT (4)

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Gingerbread houses decorate different lounges and other rooms around the ranch.

In the heart of Solvang is Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort, one of the southland's premier escapes rich in authentic old west culture with all the modern luxuries. Located on a sprawling 10,000-acre private ranch, accommodations in beautiful country guest cottages, cozy lounges and four restaurants, two 18-hole golf courses, tennis courts, pool, spa, fitness center, barns and pastures housing the ranch's 100 horses, and a 100-acre spring-fed lake offer just about every ranch experience imaginable. There are also miles of riding trails through canyons, pastures of grazing cattle, streams and hillsides, horses for every skill level, and bikes for those who prefer wheels to hoofs.

For the holidays, the ranch becomes a western wonderland with seven trees decorated in different themes, gingerbread houses, wreaths, reindeer and other holiday trimmings throughout the lobby and lounges, four restaurants, shop, and other locations around the property. Extensive daily recreation programs featuring everything from trail rides, hay wagon breakfast rides, Pilates, yoga, air rifles, archery, arts and crafts, western dancing, and lots of kids' activities will include holiday movies, storytelling, Christmas Eve program with Santa and caroling, New Year's Eve family gala and more.

Solvang also becomes a Christmas wonderland during the Danish village's month-long Julefest celebration as do other neighboring old west towns throughout the Santa Ynez Valley. www.alisal.com | 1.805.686.6411 H

Holiday treats are enjoyed by one and all on Christmas Eve. Alisal is a definite stop on Santa's Christmas Eve itinerary.

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TENLEY FOHL/COURTESY OF ALISAL GUEST RANCH AND RESORT

The fitness center lobby is in the holiday spirit.

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ENCHANTING ESCAPES

COURTESY OF FAIRMONT GRAND DEL MAR (4)

Beautifully-adorned trees are found throughout the property.

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Holiday Bowl Big Balloon Parade has been hailed as "America's Largest Balloon Parade" with over 30 giant balloons, bands, drill teams and more.

COURTESY OF THE SAN DIEGO BOWL GAME ASSOCIATION

Festive lights and ornate decorations welcome guests to the Fairmont Grand Del Mar during the holidays.

GRAND DEL MAR Set on 400 acres in a canyon five miles from the Pacific, Fairmont Grand Del Mar embodies the sophisticated elegance of an old-world

Mediterranean estate enhanced with every modern amenity. Among its numerous honors is being named the Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice #1 Luxury Hotel in the United States for the second time in 2017, a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Resort yearly from 2012 – 2017, and a AAA Five Diamond Award from 2009 – 2017. Its Addison fine dining restaurant, five-star spa and Tom Fazio golf course have also earned long lists of accolades.

Holiday festivities include the Annual Holiday Tree Lighting November 26 featuring cookie decorating and photos with Santa; 9th Annual Nutcracker Holiday Tea on December 9 featuring the Scripps Performing Arts Youth Academy presenting Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker; Polar Express Pajama Party on December 23 at the Explorer’s Club with a holiday movie classic; Story Time with Santa reading “The Night Before Christmas" on Christmas Eve, and New Year's Eve galas in two venues. www.fairmont.com/san-diego | 1.858.314.2000 The city of San Diego's many holiday events will overflow your calendar. Some of the most popular include the Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade featuring costumed furry family members; 40th annual December Nights in Balboa Park December 1-2 with festive lights, theatrical and musical entertainment; Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo which is transformed into a winter wonderland; the annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights December 10 and 17 starring over 80 lavishly-decorated illuminated boats; and Take in the Holiday Bowl Big Balloon Parade hailed as "America's Largest Balloon Parade" with over 30 giant balloons floating down the Embarcadero along with bands, drill teams and more. Details and additional events can be found at www.sandiego.org.

Happy Holidays wherever you choose to celebrate! ❖

The resort's Grand Golf Club features San Diego’s only Tom Fazio-designed golf course.

The Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade, featuring costumed furry family members, is a major annual event.

COURTESY OF MICHAEL TRIMBLE

The hotel was named Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice #1 Luxury Hotel in the United States for the second time this year.

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S O C A L C U LT U R E

SKIRB

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S O C A L C U LT U R E

GETTING TO KNOW THE

BALL CULTURAL CENTER NOW & BEYOND BY

IMAAN JALALI /

PHOTOS COURTESY OF

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: 1. A floor-to-ceiling wooden

SKIRBALL CULTURAL CENTER

ark, filled to the rafters with fancifully handcrafted animals, awaits visitors aboard Noah’s Ark at the Skirball. Photo by Grant Mudford. 2. Another Promised Land: Anita Brenner's Mexico. Dance in Tehuantepec by Diego Rivera. 3. Visions and Values: Liberty Gallery. Photo by Peter Turman. 4. Exterior view of Skirball Cultural Center. Photo by Timothy Hursley.

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ON THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: 5. On a warm day, children step outside

the Noah’s Ark galleries to cool off in the soft mists emitted by the rainbow sculpture in the arroyo garden. At times of day when the sun shines directly on the curved metal, natural rainbows appear in the mist, inspiring a sense of wonder. Photo by John Elder. 6. Visitors conclude their journey by participating in hands-on activities designed to explore the connections within and among families, cultures, and communities.

Photo by John Elder. 7. Jean Charlot, The Massacre in the Main Temple, 1922. Scaled color composition, watercolor and pencil, 20” x 35-1/2”.

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INCE 1996, WHEN IT WAS DESIGNED

by Israeli architect Moshe Safdie, the Skirball Cultural Center has impacted more than just those who identify with the Jewish faith. It has taught both children and adults of all persuasions to not only be accepting of each other, but be informed of important historical and educational works that also have socio-political and cultural implications.

Certainly, the “Visions and Values” mainstay exhibit is one that clearly elucidates the Jewish story with a wonderful grace and sensitivity. It does so by detailing the Jewish struggle over the last 4,000 years, with artifacts relating to the celebrated holidays, immigrating to America, the country of Israel, and, of course, the tragic Holocaust. The well-organized exhibit, which features a multimedia component amounting to 1,000 testimonials, puts one in the shoes of the Jewish people, as we come to know their achievements, as well as their adversities.

In addition, young children and students – as many as 60,000 annually – are exposed to the fruitful lesson offered by the permanent and award-winning Noah’s Ark exhibit. Designed by Jim Olson and Alan Maskin, who’ve ingeniously made the 8,000 square-foot space an interactive wonder box children can explore by climbing up and through the rope-supported rafters, make an illustrative rainstorm happen, load animal figurines up a conveyor belt, and take part in various arts and crafts.

The upshot is not only the completion of the Ark but a sense of rainbow-resplendent joy and togetherness, where children (and hopefully adults)

learn the importance of getting along peacefully.

Many of the activities — such as the dig site, family art studio, painting opportunities, sing-alongs, story time, and more — are part of outreach programs for Pre-K through Grade 12 students. For instance, these are inclusive of theatrical, musical, civic-minded, architectural, and archaeological classes throughout the year that are hands-on, and are as fun as they are scholastic. Given the popularity of such programs, it’s certainly no surprise that they fill up as quickly as they do.

Furthermore, besides the permanent showcases, there are a handful of new exhibits, two of which are sponsored by Pacific Standard Time: LA/LA, an initiative of the Getty, and are doubtlessly worth checking out in the next few months. The first one, which will be on display through February 25th, is entitled “Another Promised Land: Anita Brenner’s Mexico,” which highlights the artistic activism of Brenner, a Mexican-born Jew. From the 1920s on, she specifically promoted and translated Mexican works of art for citizens in the United States, who would have otherwise not been exposed to the brilliance of Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, Jean Charlot, Tina Modotti, and more. In turn, due to Brenner’s diligence, many would-be Mexican-born artists in America have become inspired to carry out their artful visions. H

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ON THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

ANOTHER PROMISED LAND: ANITA BRENNER'S MEXICO

8. Kati Horna, Smith, Kline, and French Laboratories, Mexico City, 1960s.

9. Diego Rivera, Kneeling Child on Yellow Background, 1927. Oil and wax on canvas. 10. Tina Modotti, Anita Brenner, c. 1926.

Gelatin silver print, 3-3/4” x 2-3/4”.

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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT:

SURFACE TENSION BY KEN GONZALES-DAY 11. Danny Trejo 12. La 13. Contained 14. The

Casa Azul Elixir 15. The Masters: Frida, Diego, & Siqueiros

The second Pacific Standard Time: LA/LA-sponsored exhibit, which is also scheduled to run through February 25th, is “Surface Tension by Ken Gonzales-Day.” It commemorates the Mexican cultural impact of murals and signs in the greater Los Angeles area from the East to the South, with 140 photographs by GonzalesDay that underscore the value of graffiti artists and their wall art.

These murals/photos make significant statements on the power of one's voice, social justice, and community-focused diversity.

They are inquisitive and provocative, while also being a culmination of the individuals who best represent the Latino heritage (i.e., idols and heroes). One of these people is the renowned actor Danny Trejo, who is paid homage to with a mural highlighting the boxer-turned-Hollywood star.

In the not-too-distant future, beginning on April 26th through September 2nd, Skirball attendees will have the golden opportunity to observe Leonard Bernstein’s centennial birthday via the exhibit, “Leonard Bernstein at 100.” Arguably, there has been no better contemporary Jewish composer than Bernstein, and curator Robert Santelli has worked on an interactive experience that will illuminate one of the most heralded figures in all of music history.

Bernstein, who passed away in 1990, was as much an articulate lecturer of musical principles in the classroom and on television, as he was a conductor/composer. He is popular for writing the most indelible musical scores for productions like “West Side Story” and “On the Waterfront." Better yet, he leveraged much of his success to give back to the community by raising awareness about political persecution (e.g., atrocities in Chile during the mid-1970s), and with his Young People’s Concerts, which gave children the platform to express their musical interests.

The exhibit, which will be comprised of 150 objects in all (photos, personal effects, letters, recordings, outfits, etc.), will provide an intimate setting enabling one to get to know a man too few had the privilege of knowing. Items that will definitely be must-see will include his baton, and handwritten scores from “West Side Story,” particularly “Maria” and “Tonight.” There will also be a listening station, and even a vocal booth, where one can star as Tony or Maria in the most acclaimed musical of all time. ❖

Skirball Cultural Center www.skirball.org 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90049 General admission is $12; for students, seniors, and children over 12, it’s $9; and for children under 12, it’s $7.

Admission is free for everyone all day on Thursdays.

On-site parking is also free.

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Sierra Madre's 2017 self-built float portraying “When the Cat’s Away” carried four princesses from the city.

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E SCENE H T S THE AT

BEHIND

COV E R F E AT U R E

BY L I N DA L A N G

COURTESY OF THE PASADENA TOURNAMENT OF ROSES

Being among the 50+ million viewers in some 220 countries around the world, we routinely turn on the TV New Year's Day morning and watch a perfectly organized Tournament of RosesÂŽ Rose Parade with another million or so fans lining the parade route.

Rain or shine, there has been a parade in Pasadena every New Year's Day (except during World War II or when it’s fallen on Sunday and been moved to Monday) since the Valley Hunt Club's first parade attended by some 2,000 spectators in 1890. Today, the five-and-a-half mile route begins on Orange Grove Boulevard before turning east on Colorado Boulevard where most of the viewing and TV coverage takes place. H

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The first grandstand bleachers, made in the early 1930s of wood and anchored with heavy bags of sand, presented a number of comfort and safety issues. A few years later, a small company saw the need for a better alternative, successfully built the first metal grandstand and sold the seats. One day in the late 1940s, Mike Brown, a young teen with a paper route found a box under a bleacher containing Rose Parade tickets. Not knowing what to do, he pedaled across the street to Milne Brothers Jeep, a well-known Pasadena motorcycle dealership.

Jack Milne, one of the owners, also had a successful business that supplied grandstand seats for Rose Parade. He took a liking to Mike, gave him some front row tickets to the parade and a summer job. Several summer jobs later, Milne hired Mike to build grandstands which Mike continued to do for Sharp & Warner after it purchased the business. Then in 1985, Milne provided Mike the seed money to purchase the company and Mike asked his 25-year-old daughter, Sindee, working in the accounting department for a Toshiba distributor to run it.

She agreed to give it a try for one year.

Over the next 31 years, crowds grew and SHARP SEATING COMPANY grew right along with the Tournament of Roses® organization and is now the one and only Official Grandstand Seating and Ticketing Company for Tournament of Roses® Rose Parade. Still headed by President and General Manager

Sindee Brown Riboli, it remains a very hands-on, family-owned business. It is not a ticket broker. Brokers purchase tickets and parking from Sharp Seating. The company has but one business — building the grandstands and selling tickets for the Tournament of Roses® Parade, the pre and post events, parking as well as souvenir programs and pins.

With the year-round planning firmly in place, SHARP SEATING is able to focus upon customer service. Tickets go on sale every February 1st. Their sales and marketing have kept current with the times and includes digital, social media and a website loaded with every detail you need to know about attending the parade, including discounts for the military. It's an easy-to-use, one-stop shop where you can instantly purchase tickets for the parade and all the pre and post events, souvenir programs and pins. There are maps showing seat locations, parking, and descriptions and locations of all the events. There's also an extensive FAQ section addressing recommended arrival times, seat accessibility, what to take and not take, food vender info, portable restroom locations, and much more. And if your question isn't answered there, their staff is easily reached by phone.

"All we focus on year-round is the Rose Parade," says Riboli.

"The parade and what it means are very important to us.

We don't stop at selling tickets. We are there for the whole party." After the parade, she even has a company come clean up all the trash and toss it onto the boulevards for collection by the street cleaners later that day.

"The nice thing about being in the Rose Parade business is that you get to make people happy," she continues. "We get people from everywhere for every reason. They come from Japan, Europe, a lot from Canada and from all over the United States."

ERICA GODDARD

Sharp Seating is headed by President and General Manager Sindee Brown Riboli who took over the company's management in 1985.

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Sharp Seating remains a very hands-on family owned and operated business.

ERICA GODDARD

COURTESY OF THE PASADENA TOURNAMENT OF ROSES (2)

COURTESY OF SHARP SEATING COMPANY

COV E R F E AT U R E

Mike Brown bought Sharp Seating in 1985 and still likes to take part in behind the scenes activities in the family-owned business.

Smiling faces filling the grandstands eagerly await the start of the parade.

COURTESY OF SHARP SEATING COMPANY

Walk within feet of some 50 magnificent floats and learn more about them during the post-parade Showcase of Floats Jan. 1-2.

Among the many Tournament of Roses Rose Parade Grand Marshals over the years was Roy E. Disney at the turn of the century in 2000.

The City of Pasadena entered this float in the 1919 parade.

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COURTESY OF THE PASADENA TOURNAMENT OF ROSES

COURTESY OF THE TOURNAMENT OF ROSES

Grandstands at the corner of Colorado Boulevard at Orange Grove are among the prime locations for TV commentators on the day of the parade.

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Marching bands perform the field shows that won them places in the parade during Bandfest on Dec 29-30 at Pasadena City College.

Watch beautiful horses and talented riders marching in the parade perform drills, dances, roping, trick riding and more during EquestFest at the L.A. Equestrian Center Dec. 29.

see these magnificent horses and riders performing drills, dances, trick riding, roping, and you can meander through the stables and talk with the riders. SHARP SEATING has VIP tickets for this event.

The post-parade Showcase of Floats January 1 and 2 gives you the opportunity to walk within feet of some 50 magnificentlydecorated floats parked along Sierra Madre and Washington Boulevards. Tournament volunteers are on hand to tell you more about the process.

You can also attend the Rose Bowl Game Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on December 30 when The Pasadena Tournament of Roses® honors the Rose Bowl Hall of Fame Class of 2017 during a luncheon at the Rose Bowl Stadium Lot K Tent.

You'll see this year's inductees Mack Brown, Cade McNown, Dr. Charles West and Charles Woodson join other legendary football greats in the Rose Bowl Hall of Fame.

You can also order your Official 2018 Roses Parade Program from SHARP SEATING. Vouchers are mailed with advance ticket purchases for pick-up at the parade. Included are details about the parade, Grand Marshals, pictures of the Rose Queen and her Royal Court, descriptions of the floats and bands including their marching order, and listing of the judges. The pre and post parade events and Rose Bowl are also included.

For complete details, visit SHARP SEATING COMPANY at www.sharpseating.com or call 1.626.795.4171

“Do more with your 24” was the theme of 24 Hour Fitness' float in 2017.

and excitement. The next day, the nuns were pictured on the front page of the local newspaper.

PRE AND POST PARADE EVENTS One of the most popular pre-parade events is BandFest, December 29 and 30 at the Pasadena City College Stadium featuring the 2018 Rose Parade bands performing the award-winning field shows that earned them participation in the parade.

With Decorating Places, you can see some of the floats in final preparation December 28-31. Countless varieties of colorful flowers and assortments of bark, seeds, grasses, and fruits are being applied by volunteers and professionals. (If you want to help decorate a float, contact the Tournament of Roses® directly at www.tournamentofroses.com.)

Equestfest on December 29 features the parade's equestrian units, rain or shine, at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank. There's a vendor court, food trucks, displays and you'll

Happy New Year, everyone! ❖

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COURTESY OF THE PASADENA TOURNAMENT OF ROSES (3)

ERICA GODDARD

The reasons are countless. Some have the parade on their bucket lists. Others are parents and friends of kids in the marching bands and equestrian groups.

And then there are those with limited time who want to be part of this very special experience while they still can.

A favorite part of Sindee Brown Riboli's job is on New Year's Day when she, like other SHARP SEATING COMPANY captains along the parade route, works the corner of Orange Grove and Colorado making sure the ushers and parking attendants have things under control, and everything is flowing. She also helps lost souls find their seats. One year, a group of four nuns was quite lost and standing right in front of some seated customers partially blocking their view. Riboli saw the situation, spotted a front row vacancy across the street, went over and escorted the nuns to their seats, watching with pure delight their joy

Sharp Seating is the one and only Official Seating and Ticketing Company for the Tournament of Roses® Rose Parade.

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T R E N D I N G TA L K

FIND MEANING & PURPOSE IN THE HOLIDAYS BY

ESTHER C. BLEUEL, MA, MFT, MDR

H

HOLIDAYS TEND TO SERVE AS REMINDERS OF TIME HAVING PASSED AND AS

anchors for reflection and reminiscence. They are also, of course, times to celebrate.

We sometimes ask ourselves, “celebrate what?” Life? Family & friends? Many people feel lonely, isolated, depressed and unhappy around traditional holidays, which leads to important questions about happiness. What is happiness anyway? H

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Many psychologists suggest that happiness comes from meaning. Positive psychologist Martin Seligman says that meaning comes from belonging to, serving something beyond yourself, and developing the best within you. Writer Emily Esfahani Smith discusses happiness in her TED talk and why chasing happiness often makes people unhappy.

BASED UPON HER EXTENSIVE RESEARCH, SMITH SUGGESTS THERE ARE FOUR PILLARS OF A MEANINGFUL LIFE.

1

2

3

4

BELONGING

PURPOSE

TRANSCENDENCE

STORYTELLING

Being in relationships where you are valued for who you are and where you value others as well. This is different from groups or relationships that are based simply upon activities, what you believe, or whom you hate, rather than who you are.

Using your strengths and gifts to serve others. How you contribute and feel needed and useful. People often flounder without something worthwhile to live for, a reason that inspires you.

Feeling connected to rare moments of a higher reality where your sense of self fades away. Moments when you step beyond yourself, lifted above the hectic bustle of daily life.

The story you tell yourself about yourself. It creates clarity and helps you understand how you became you. You can edit, interpret and retell your story where painful memories elicit insights and wisdom to discover the good that sustains you. Psychologist Dan McAdams says that “we can write a redemptive story where the bad is redeemed by the good.”

This has been an especially challenging year in many ways.

Social, economic and political tension have tried our patience.

Many have suffered personal pain and loss and living a meaningful life requires effort, attention and action. This is why it is especially important to strengthen these pillars within our families, communities and society to help people become their best selves as we create our own lives and add to our own stories.

During this holiday season, seek to celebrate and create

meaning in your life and relationships based on these four pillars. Treasure and enhance your relationships of mutual respect and regard. Share your gifts and strengths where your contribution is needed for a worthy purpose. See yourself and your life from a higher plane to gain perspective. Then, take pride in your story. Identify the purpose and meaning of your life. Find and connect with other like-minded individuals and nurture those relationships. ❖

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FA B F I N DS

1

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR

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GIFTS

3

IF YOUR GIFT LIST IS LONG BUT YOU’RE SHORT ON IDEAS, TAKE A LOOK AT SOME ITEMS WE’VE FOUND THAT ARE SURE TO MAKE YOUR LUCKY RECIPIENTS HAPPY. FORGET THE USUAL GIFT CARD AND OPT FOR SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR THAT LOVED ONE OR BUSINESS PARTNER. HERE ARE A FEW SUGGESTIONS TO JUMP

START YOUR CREATIVE GIFT-GIVING INSPIRATION.

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1. VANITY PLANET: SHOP YOUR WAY TO BEAUTY! Not your average beauty company, Vanity Planet believes that when you look good, you feel good and that you shouldn’t have to spend your entire paycheck in order to get, crueltyfree body and skin care. Visit VanityPlanet.com to explore their full collection. A skincare lovers haven! Vanity Planet provides everything you need to polish your inside and outside, because true beauty means tending to both.

VanityPlanet.com/Products/ForeverYoung-Hot-Cold-Rejuvenating-FacialWand-1 2. THE CUCINAPRO

MAGNETIC CHEESE PLATE is also perfect for entertaining this holiday season! Show off your fancy side at your next house party with this Cheese Plate that features a raised integrated tool block at the back. With a built-in magnetic strip to hold tools in place while not in use, it’s easy to keep track of knives and keep them out of the way when serving food on the tray. The cheese slate is removable for easy cleaning and comes with chalk to label your menu for guests! The set includes a crumbly cheese chisel, pointed-tip cheese knife, blunt-nosed cheese knife, cheese fork, all with soft-grip handles. Available on Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond and CucinaPro.com. RETAIL PRICE: $49.95. 3. SWIMS BRAIDED LACE LOAFER Norwegian penny and breeze style loafers are water friendly, anti slip/non marking sole, breathable, lightweight and washable in cold water in the washing machine. Highlights of the Cruise Collection include new hues: deep red, khaki and faded lemon. Available mid-November at Neiman Marcus Newport Beach, Neiman Marcus San Diego, Saks 5th Palm Desert, Nordstrom San Diego, Nordstrom Topanga Canyon, Nordstrom The Grove, Nordstrom Santa Monica. RETAIL PRICE: $160 4. KRUPS SAVOY EC415 COFFEE MAKER The SAVOY Turbo EC414 allows users to brew their coffee 35% FASTER using the Turbo function and offers several other great features including: A built-in aroma tube on the underside of the carafe's lid ensures optimal diffusion of rich coffee flavor, Bold setting for a richer taste, two auto-on options, keep warm setting with varying temperature and time options, 1-4 cup option for small batch brewing and more. ($79.99; Available @ Target & Target.com) 5. CUCINAPRO IMPERIA HOME PASTA MACHINE Make your own pasta in half the time with the CucinaPro Imperia Home Pasta Machine! Get the authenticity of a real Italian pasta maker in your own home with six thickness settings.

Traditional pasta roller lets you make the freshest pasta you've ever tasted right at home. Made of heavy duty, shiny chromed 18/10 stainless steel with a 6-inch wide roller. Easy-lock adjustment dial for dough roller and wood grip handle. Includes double cutter head for spaghetti and fettuccine, as well as a star-shaped raviolimaking tray and rolling pin, along with two attachments for spaghetti, tagliatelle, fettucine, and lasagnette. Get this whole gift set with an instruction booklet with 5 recipes! Available for purchase on Amazon and CucinaPro.com. RETAIL PRICE: $149.99. H

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‘TIS THE SEASON FOR

GIFTS

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6. HENNESSY MASTER BLENDER’S SELECTION NO. 2 Exclusive to the US, Master Blenders’ Selection N°2 is Hennessy's latest limited-edition blend and second – and last –iteration by 7th generation Master Blender Yann Fillioux. Enclosed in a bottle designed by Parisian artist Ugo Gattoni, this unique single batch creation is a pure expression of Hennessy’s unparalleled craftsmanship, innovation and savoir faire.

Each bottle of Master Blenders’ selection N°2 is bottled at 43% ABV and individually numbered and signed by Mr. Fillioux – making it the ultimate personalized present this holiday season. Available on ReserveBar.com starting Oct. 2017 – SRP: $92 7. JOUVÉ SKINCARE Achieve youthful radiance with Jouvé, an award winning, premium skin care line. Jouvé combines innovative science and superior formulation to deliver immediate and ongoing results for that radiant and youthful look we all seek. Jouvé is vegan, gluten-free and PETA-certified as cruelty-free. Visit JouvéSkin.com to learn more. PRICE: $85-$200 8. LUMENE HYDRATE, BOOST GLOW, ENERGIZE! A super concentrated, miracle boosting serum for brighter-looking, intensely hydrated skin. Containing the unique new Nordic-C radiance enhancing and energizing technology with berry extract from antioxidant-rich Wild Arctic Cloudberry and Vitamin C, along with Pure Arctic Spring Water and two types of Hyaluronic Acid, the hydrating formula works to promote the appearance of more youthfullooking skin that feels plumper, smoother and looks more radiant. Up to 96% naturally derived. Free from: parabens, formaldehyde donors and mineral oil+F13. PRICES VARY. Available at Ulta.com 9. NEW PRO BEAUTY TOOLS 1 1/4” PROFESSIONAL X-LONG GOLD CURLING IRON Make holiday styling totally seamless - at long last, a curling iron created specifically for those with long, luscious locks. The Iron creates long lasting gorgeous, bouncy curls throughout the entire length of hair. The extra-long barrel provides a surface that is 2” longer than a traditional iron, allowing long hair to wrap around barrel seamlessly for an even distribution and consistent performance. The salon-quality gold technology ensures long lasting curls and waves are locked in place for 24 hours. RETAIL PRICE: $29.99, Target

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10 10. THE CUCINAPRO PIZZELLE NONSTICK BAKER A perfect new way to cook dessert this holiday season! Perfect European-style pizzelles, crisp and sweet, release easily impressed with a decorative pattern from this nonstick electric cooker. Make delicious pizzelles for the whole family with this Pizzelle Baker, that makes two 5" traditional snowflake treats that cook evenly on the extra-thick baking plates, then crisp up as they cool. This Pizzelle Nonstick Baker has extra thick heating plates that ensure even heat distribution. The nonstick cooking grids allow for easy release and quick cleanup, with BPA-free plastic handles and feet. Available for purchase at Bed Bath & Beyond, Crate & Barrel, Amazon.com, CucinaPro.com and SCSDirectInc.com. RETAIL PRICE: $59.99. 11. BRADFORD WATCH COMPANY Stylish timepieces for men and women that fit all occasions. Bradford Watch Company believes in making every moment count, and that counting those moments in style shouldn’t cost your life savings, or sacrifice quality. Founded on simplicity, excellence, and durability, ensuring every element is crafted with care so that you receive a quality product that lasts. At Bradford, every moment counts.

BradFordWatchCo.com/Collections/Taylor/Products/TaylorBr-Polished-Gold-Brown 12. THE GOOD COOKING

STEAK STONE DELUXE SERVING SET The perfect way to cook meat, fish, vegetables and more right at the dinner table!

It’s also very simple to use--just heat your steak stone in the oven, remove and place on the stainless steel tray and bamboo platter!

Made from hand-crafted basalt stone, the steak stone is easy to clean and a safe way to enjoy your favorite meals. Your guests will be impressed with this gorgeous presentation of steak that is sure to step up your holiday get-togethers! Available as a family size serving set with an extra-large basalt stone, or deluxe serving set with a ceramic side dish and 3 ceramic sauce cups. Available for purchase on Amazon, MyGoodCooking.com and SCSDirectInc.com.

RETAIL PRICE: $89.95 ❖

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O F F T H E B E AT E N PAT H

ADAMSON HOUSE MALIBU’S HISTORIC GEM BY

MARY NOE

T

TUCKED QUIETLY BEHIND A WHITE ADOBE

wall on Pacific Coast Highway, between Malibu Lagoon and the Malibu Pier, sits the Adamson House — an architectural and historical treasure unexplored by many Southern Californians. Built in the 1920s, the Spanish Colonial Revival style home is a National Historic Site, California Historical Landmark, and a California State Park, and there’s no better time than the holidays to explore this stunning piece of SoCal history.

Guided holiday tours are held during December and showcase the enchanting holiday period. Decorations adorn the home’s original furnishings and offer a breathtaking glimpse into the home’s rich history and the holiday traditions of the Adamson family in the 1930s.

Home to a Chumash Indian village centuries ago, the exquisite oceanfront compound has a fascinating past. The 13,000 acre property became part of the Spanish land grant system, and was purchased in the late 1800s by Frederick and May Rindge.

The Rindges designed their own paradise by the sea, farming and ranching on the property.

After being widowed in 1905, May Rindge established Malibu Potteries in 1926, which produced vibrant, world-renowned decorative tiles.

Fire destroyed the tile factory in 1931, rendering the remaining tiles priceless.

Meanwhile, the Adamson House was built in 1929 by May Rindge as a beach house for her daughter and son-in-law, Rhoda and Merritt Adamson, and it became the family’s primary residence in 1937.

Designed by architect Stiles Clements, the home was

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O F F T H E B E AT E N PAT H

The Adamson House property offers an eclectic mix of art history on site — cultural, archaeological, architectural, and botanical… It’s an important local site that many area residents are unfamiliar with.

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O F F T H E B E AT E N PAT H It’s such a lovely place for people to bring out-of-towners because it’s so old California.

SPECIAL HOLIDAY TOURS WILL BE OFFERED FROM 3:15PM-7:15PM ON THE FOLLOWING DATES: Thursdays: Nov. 30, Dec. 7, Dec. 14, Dec. 21, Dec. 28 Saturdays: Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Sundays: Dec. 3, 17, 31 Holiday tours will not be offered on Fridays, Dec. 10, or Christmas Eve. Admission prices: $20 per adult/$10 per child 6-17/children under 5 free.

For updated information about holiday and general tour schedules, reservations, and parking, please visit the Adamson House Foundation website adamsonhouse.org/main.php or call the Visitor Center at 310-456-9378.

extensively decorated with gorgeous Malibu Pottery tiles, along with handpainted decorative art and hand-carved woodwork, and is known internationally as the finest showcase of the rare tile.

The Adamsons raised their three children on the property, along with a menagerie of pets. Rhoda Adamson died in 1962 and the State of California acquired the property in 1968. The Malibu Historical Society (now known as the Malibu Adamson House Foundation) was formed to preserve the house, which opened as a museum in 1983.

The home and beautifully landscaped grounds are classic Californian. While tours are offered year-round, visiting during the holidays is a special treat best described by museum curator Damian Ruddy. “The special holiday tours differ from the regular tours — light snacks and hot cider are provided, docents dress in holiday regalia, holiday music plays, and each guest receives a special gift.”

Volunteer docents “decorate the home the way it was historically,” and the festive atmosphere captures “the zeitgeist of the times — the 30s, 40s and 50s,” he says. The Adamson House is “the jewel in the crown of Malibu, and people can see it in its glory with the lighting of the house during the holidays.”

Susie Dettmers-Smith, a docent since 2005, agrees that the holiday tours are enchanting. “We have some vintage Christmas cards that were sent to the Adamsons, and those are usually featured every year.”

The holidays are a great time to visit with guests, she suggests. “It’s such a lovely place for people to bring out-of-towners because it’s so old California.”

Docent-led holiday tours are scheduled on select Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays this holiday season, and will be offered in the late afternoon and evening to take advantage of the best views of the holiday lights.

In addition to touring the home, visitors can explore the exquisite landscaping on their own or on a garden tour, offered on Friday mornings.

Reflecting their 1930s glory, the beautifully appointed grounds also host wedding ceremonies and receptions.

Guests can also learn about Malibu’s Chumash Indian and Spanish California cultures at the Malibu Lagoon Museum and visit the adjacent gift shop for Adamson House memorabilia.

“The Adamson House property offers an eclectic mix of art history on site — cultural, archaeological, architectural, and botanical… It’s an important local site that many area residents are unfamiliar with,” says Ruddy. He adds, “The property is well-known internationally—now we’re working on getting the local Malibu and other Southern California residents” to visit as well.

Visit Malibu’s exquisite Adamson House this holiday season and stroll through California history at its festive best! ❖

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Mario Lopez

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F E AT U R E

LIFE WITH FAMILY, FAITH, FOOD, FITNESS AND FUN

Host

BY

ROBYN FLANS

LOPEZ SAYS FAMILY HAS ALWAYS BEEN IMPORTANT, BEGINNING WITH HIS PARENTS WHO ARE STILL TOGETHER. THEY GAVE HIM THE FOUNDATION NECESSARY TO NAVIGATE HIS ACTING CAREER WHICH BEGAN AT AGE 11, AND WHEN HE BECAME A TEEN SENSATION IN “SAVED

BY THE BELL” AT 16, LOPEZ SAYS IT WAS HIS PARENTS WHO KEPT HIM GROUNDED THROUGH THE EXPERIENCE.

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Dominic, Courtney Mazza, Mario and Gia Lopez

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“It’s one of the things I look to for strength and guidance and questions answered, for solace and peace in my life,” Lopez says. “In any kind of challenge in your life I think that’s where you go and it’s incredibly helpful.”

As for Food, Lopez describes himself as a “big foodie” with a couple of cookbooks previously released. Extra Lean in 2010 was a New York Times bestseller and Extra Lean Family was published in 2012.

“I’m not a calorie counter and I try to eat sensible meals throughout the week,” he says. “I don’t feel people should deprive themselves.

It’s all about grazing every few hours and making sure your plate has a healthy portion of protein, fat and carbs and you practice portion control and you’re good to go.”

His favorite foods are Mexican (his heritage) and Italian (his wife’s heritage), but he counters all the calories with fitness.

“I try to break a sweat every day. I box, I do jujitsu and hike if it’s nice outside and not too hot. I work out more for sanity, not for vanity,” Lopez says, adding his daughter is already in dance and gymnastics classes and they hike together. His son is taking jujitsu and gymnastics as well.

Everything — family, food, fitness, faith and his work — comes under the banner of Fun. Lopez recently completed a holiday film called Christmas Hours which he describes as a sweet romantic comedy.

“It’s about two toy store owners that are rivals and a big corporation comes and tried to buy up all the stores,” Lopez says. “We join forces to fight against them and in the process we fall in love.”

For their own holidays the Lopez family will go to Texas to spend Thanksgiving with family members and then they will host Christmas at their home.

“We do a big meal. My mom, my wife and my sister all cook,” Lopez says. “Mexican and Italian food.

There’s a lot of pasta and tamales.”

After hosting Christmas, he will return to host Extra, which he has been doing for the past ten years.

He says hosting came naturally to him because he was always hosting parties and game nights at his home.

“You have to just like people and make sure everyone’s having a good time and you have to be a good listener,” he says. “So someone at NBC suggested me.

From there I got to work with Dick Clark which changed my attitude and perspective on everything and I thought, ‘I want to be the Latin Dick Clark.’”

In 1992 he hosted his first show called Name Your Adventure.

He went on to host Masters of the Maze and The X Factor followed

by Animal Planet’s Pet Star. Since 2012 he has hosted a syndicated radio show On With Mario Lopez and in 2014 he began hosting the Hot AC edition of the iHeartRadio Countdown.

With Extra, he says he has gotten to meet some of the most fascinating people in television, film and music. While he concedes that some can be a pain, he says, “I will say the bigger the star, they get it, they’re nice and gracious with their time — the George Clooneys and the Julia Roberts. They’re great and a lot of fun. It never gets old.” ❖

“My parents were blue collar and immigrants to this country,” Lopez says. “I had a great family that kept me grounded,” adding that he went to regular high school during “Saved by the Bell.”

Lopez makes it sound like the acting wasn’t a huge deal in the household growing up. “It was just something to do,” he says.

As a child he loved to perform. “I loved the feedback and I talked a lot and my mom put me in a bunch of classes,” he recalls. “I was always performing and dancing and I did a bunch of plays and local community work.”

His first role was in 1984 in a short-lived TV series called “A.K.A. Pablo.” That was followed by a job as a drummer and dancer in “Kids Incorporated ” that same year. Three years later, he guest starred on “Golden Girls,” but it wasn’t until 1989 when “Saved by the Bell ” began its five-year run.

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opez has his own kids now with wife Courtney Mazza Lopez — 7-year-old daughter, Gia and 4-year-old son Dominic — and he says parenthood changed his life. “Everything I do is for them. When you have children your, priorities change. I always had a strong work ethic but now I even work harder and I stay really focused and do the right thing.”

Especially with family and as he’s gotten older, Lopez says he’s “tried to build more spiritual muscle,” which is where Faith comes in.

His kids go to Catholic school and he says he looks to his faith at any times of challenge.

EVERYTHING I DO IS FOR THEM. WHEN YOU HAVE CHILDREN, YOUR PRIORITIES CHANGE. I ALWAYS HAD A STRONG WORK ETHIC BUT NOW I EVEN WORK HARDER AND I STAY REALLY

FOCUSED AND DO THE RIGHT THING.

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Welcome to Pendry San Diego.

Introducing the new brand from Montage International • Located in the heart of the Historic Gaslamp Quarter • 317 rooms including 36 suites • Over 35,000 square feet of meeting and event space • Three blocks to Convention Center • Two blocks to Petco Park, home of San Diego Padres • 4 miles to SAN Airport • 1.5 miles to cruise ship terminal

DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT • Lionfish, Modern Coastal Cuisine • Fifth & Rose Lobby Lounge • Provisional Mercantile, Kitchen and Café • Oxford Social Club • The Pool House • Nason's Beer Hall

AMENITIES • 24 hour Room Service • Fully Stocked Mini Bar • Spa Pendry featuring indoor and outdoor treatments • State-of-the-art fitness center and wellness programs • Rooftop pool and luxury cabanas • Pet Friendly • In close proximity to Balboa Park, Seaworld and San Diego Zoo • Outdoor activities including surfing, sailing and biking • Luxury linens and nightly turn down

Pendry San Diego 550 J Street San Diego, CA 92101 619.738.7000 pendryhotels.com Contact Your Smart Flyer Travel Advisor to book your stay at the Pendry: Newport@Smartflyer.com

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TUNE IN TO SO CAL'S

KARAOKE BARS

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA DEFINITELY ATTRACTS A THEATRICAL BUNCH, SO IT’S PERHAPS NO

SURPRISE THE REGION HAS A RECORD NUMBER OF KARAOKE BARS FOR PEOPLE TO LET OUT THEIR INNER ROCK STARS AND POP QUEENS. FROM SAN DIEGO TO SANTA BARBARA, HERE’S A ROUNDUP OF SOME OF THE BEST SPOTS FOR KARAOKE CROONING ALONG THE GOLD COAST. BY

DUSTIN CLENDENEN

Eastbound Bar & Grill

10053 Maine Ave. Lakeside, CA 92040 (619) 334-2566

Eastbound Bar & Grill boasts a delicious menu and an impressive 26 beers on tap. But what makes it a destination is the crowd-drawing Thursday night karaoke that starts at 8 pm. Each year, the bar holds a six-week karaoke competition where the winners receive an all-expenses paid trip to Vegas. This year, the final two contestants were between husbands and wives, so both of them were major winners.

EASTBOUNDBARANDGRILL.COM

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Plush Karaoke Lounge

Werewolf

627 Fourth Ave. San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 234-0094

2710 Aton Pkwy #203 Irvine, CA 92606 (949) 222-9986

Located in the heart of San Diego’s Gaslamp District, Werewolf hosts a howling good time every weeknight, from Monday - Friday, where every evening is dedicated to karaoke.

Dedicated to the craft, the bar hosts karaoke competitions throughout the year with serious cash prizes. It’s not a surprise Werewolf was named Yelp San Diego’s Most Reserved Restaurant in 2017.

While Plush Karaoke Lounge is the only place to karaoke in the city of Irvine, it doesn’t skimp on providing options to its customers. The constantly updating library has selections in English, Chinese, Japanese and Korean (K Pop for the win!).

Even with 16 rooms to choose from as well, the place fills up fast, and rooms are given on a first come first serve basis. Try to come early on weekends if you don’t want to wait.

THEWEREWOLF.NET

PLUSHKARAOKE.COM

Cafe Brass Monkey 659 S. Mariposa Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90005 (213) 381-7047

LA has a ridiculous number of karaoke bars to choose from, but perhaps none are more notorious than Cafe Brass Monkey. Small and cozy, the ski lodge-decorated venue boasts a comprehensive songbook—so even that friend in your group who “doesn’t do karaoke” will probably find a song they’ll be proud to sing.

Wait times on weekends can be long so be prepared to wait 45 minutes or more for your own room. It will be worth the wait.

CAFEBRASSMONKEY.COM

The Good Nite

10721 Burbank Blvd.

North Hollywood, CA 91601 (818) 850-3485 The Good Nite prides itself on being what it’s name implies: a good night out in the valley. This kind of attitude has made it the San Fernando Valley’s hippest karaoke lounge. The songbook boasts an impressive selection, but if you’re dead set on a song they don’t have listed, feel free to ask—they’ll probably be able to magically queue it up. Reserve the VIP booth if you’re planning on having a party, but if you become a regular here, you’ll feel like a VIP every night.

THEGOODNITE.COM H

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The Gaslite

2030 Wilshire Blvd.

Santa Monica, CA 90403 (310) 829-2382 This is the sort of anythinggoes lowbrow watering hole where the karaoke is either really, really good, or really, really bad. It’s the perfect venue for someone to unleash their hidden inner rock star or American Idol champion on, or drunkenly believe their pipes are better than what God actually gave them. This is a high energy crowd though, so expect to have so much fun no one will really care how hard you bomb, as long as you’re enjoying yourself too.

Peabody’s Cafe

134 S. Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92262 (760) 322-1877

What started as a coffee house in 1992 has transformed into a full restaurant bar with a full fresh-to-order menu and one of the best karaoke spots in Palm Springs. They even stay open late on Friday and Saturday nights to host the city’s aspiring singers.

PEABODYSCAFEANDBAR.COM

THEGASLITE.COM

Retro Room Lounge

125 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way #102 Palm Springs, CA 92264 (760) 656-8680 The Retro Room Lounge hosts karaoke every single night of the week, and boasts an impressive specialty cocktail menu. Officially on the map as a gay bar, the venue is incredibly open to everyone, actually spelling out on its website that the Saturday night drag shows are perfect for bachelorette parties.

RETROROOMLOUNGE.COM

The Cliff Room

1828 Cliff Dr. Santa Barbara, CA 93109 (805) 966-3060 For a self-described “local bar,” The Cliff Room has a slightly more posh interior and social media presence than necessary, but the most important attribute is completely on point: reasonably priced stiff drinks. Karaoke Nights are Monday and Thursday, so patrons can start the week with a song in their heart and take on Friday mornings with musical vigor. ❖ THECLIFFROOM.COM

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BOXING

CHAMP

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“HOME

MADE

SIMPLE’S”

F E AT U R E

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BY ROBYN FLANS

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Her dad was a role model for her and set a high bar. As a dad, she says, he was a “very giving, kind father. He was not a disciplinarian. The only things he really cared about were us being good Muslim girls, which I chose not to be,” she says with a laugh.

“That’s all he really expected of us.”

She has gone on to teach her two children — daughter Sydney (6) and son Curtis, Jr. (9) — to embrace their individuality and has tried to instill in them the same confidence to pursue what will make them happy.

“I reinforce that through the conversations we have, through the unconditional love I show them, regardless of whether we agree on certain things or not. I like to give them a voice on how they feel and I always encourage them to speak up.”

She plans to spend as much time as possible with her family during the holidays. Ali wants to put together some family photo albums “because like so many people we take so many photos on our phones. I want to take photos and make books in the traditional way.”

She says she’s just looking forward to some down time.

“It’s been a really busy year, so I’m looking forward to getting in the kitchen, baking some cookies. They’re getting old enough where they really enjoy cooking with me.”

Ali began cooking when she was around nine. Her mother — Muhammad Ali’s third wife — didn’t cook much she says.

“I began cooking for myself because, like everything else, I said, ‘Hey, if I want something done, I’ll do it myself.’”

She began by taking items out of the refrigerator, calling her grandmother and asking questions and then coming up with her own versions of recipes.

“I still do that to this day. I never follow recipes. I always make changes. I’ve always loved cooking because I’ve always loved to eat.”

Ali says she tends to cook healthy because that’s how she eats.

“If I eat protein it’s lean meat, fish, and lots of vegetables, but I enjoy seasoning them different ways.”

She’s very excited about her new cookbook, Food For Life, coming out in January. She says while there are chapters with kids recipes, old family recipes, her old and new recipes, and desserts, all of them can be modified for anyone’s dietary needs.

Of course she’ll be cooking on “Home Made Simple” where she will also be enjoying interior design when the show returns Nov. 4 at 9 am in a new hour-long format.

“It’s a DIY make-over show where we teach people easy ways to make their house into a home and easy recipes they can incorporate into their lives to make their lives a little easier,” Ali explains.

She has not only been enjoying working hands on with carpenters and designers, but also the families who have the great stories, she says.

“I always enjoy getting in the kitchen with these families and cooking with them and teaching them recipes out of my book. With each episode I create a recipe specifically for that family.”

Ali says it’s a great sense of accomplishment when she’s fixed a problem for a family.

“When you see a smile on people’s faces and they’re like, ‘Wow, I actually get to live here?’” ❖

Laila Ali

laughs at the contradictory portrait painted of her as the tough boxer and the domes-

tic, feminine cook in the kitchen.

But the truth is Ali — the daughter of The Greatest — Muhammad Ali — is a woman for all seasons, a rare individual who has nurtured all aspects of her being. The most successful woman boxer — the undefeated, four-time boxing world champion and current host of OWN’s “Home Made Simple,” explains: “I have always embraced all parts of myself and I think with a lot of women, we feel like we have to be in a box; we feel like we’re stereotyped into one role,” Ali admits. “I’ve just never allowed that to happen. Whatever my interests are, whatever I feel like doing, I kinda just go for it.”

She says she was not moved to compete from 1999 - 2007 because of her father, but because she saw women’s boxing on television at the age of 18.

“It took me about a year of contemplation to go for it because I thought, ‘What will people think? I’m in school full time. It’s not a part of my plan.’ It took me some time to find the courage to even go to the boxing gym to see if I had the talent,” she explains.

“I didn’t call anybody else. I didn’t call my dad. I didn’t tell anybody else. I wanted to check it out to see if I had it in me to be a boxer in the first place , but once I went on my own, I fell in love with it.”

Next thing she knew, she was training every night after school and work and wanted to become a champion. It was a year before she told anyone. She was the only one of the siblings who ended up boxing.

Her father tried to dissuade her, she says, just as she would do with her children. But she never worried that critics would cast her in the shadow of her famous father.

“There’s a lot of pressure on you, but never pressure I couldn’t handle. That’s just a fact when you’re father is one of the most famous men in the world, arguably the most famous man in the world,” Ali states. “But that’s a great shadow to be in. I’ve actually embraced it. I’m actually grounded because I’ve lived up to everything I’ve set out to do. To be in his shadow, to be related to him and have the same blood running through my veins gives me a lot of pride because a lot of what I have inside of me came from him. I’m very proud of that, actually.”

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HOUSTON, TX

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RANCHO MIRAGE, CA

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PA L M S P R I N G S , C A

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AROHA NEW ZEALAND CUISINE AND BAR BY

MONIQUE REIDY

meats seasoned with domestic New Zealand flavorings.

Guests with food sensitivities will appreciate that New Zealand native and Award Winning Chef, Gwithyen Thomas, generously adapts his fare to accommodate any allergies or dietary restrictions, while maintaining his signature flavors.

Live performances by local musicians take place Wednesdays through Fridays in the patio bar area.

Aroha New Zealand Cuisine and Bar is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates truly amazing food. ❖

A REFRESHING ALTERNATIVE TO THE ALL TOO common “Asian-fusion fare,” Aroha Cuisine and Bar

offers a distinctive menu that features authentic and delectable New Zealand dishes. Everything, from the fresh New Zealand seafood that’s delivered on site in less than 48 hours of being caught, to the imported bottled water (yes, it is the best water you’ll ever taste), is fresh, unique and delicious.

The menu features primarily organic produce, some grown on premises, and free-range and grass-fed organic

DINNER

Tuesday - Sunday 5:30pm - 9:30pm

BRUNCH

BAR

Sunday 10:00am - 2:30pm

Tuesday-Sunday 4:00pm - 9:30pm

805-405-5054 30990 Russell Ranch Rd, Unit C, Westlake Village, CA 91362 AROHARESTAURANT.COM

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HAPPY HOUR

Tuesday - Friday, Sunday 4:00pm - 7:00pm

I STRIVE TO BOLDLY BAKE OUTSIDE OF THE BOXED CAKE. Gemma Stafford

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THE GOURMAND

IRISH CHEF

GEMMA STAFFORD A BOLD, NO-BALLYHOO BAKER WITH HELP FOR THE TIMID COOK

BY

JENNI KEAST /

PHOTOS COURTESY OF

GEMMA STAFFORD/ANDERSON GROUP PR

Clear out, Cronut. Hit the ditch, Duffin … there’s a new “nut” in town and its name is “Mugnut.”

Yumdilicious!

THE GREAT THING ABOUT DONUTS IS THAT THEY’RE, WELL … DONUTS.

Everybody loves them. While most of us grab our “choker holes” from the corner donut shop, a few brave souls try and make them from scratch. Big mistake. After ten long, complicated steps, several pieces of tricky kitchen equipment and a few hot oil burns, even the most stalwart baker would be wondering what possessed them to attempt such a herculean feat.

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No more dry bones. Gemma’s healthy frozen dog treats will have your bowser begging for more.

Waffles & Gemma Stafford

Enter Gemma Stafford, Irish-born baker and inventor of the “mugnut” — a make-it-in-a-minute microwave jelly donut … in a mug. This Santa Monica-based food aficionado is out to change the world of baking one easy recipe at a time — and not just donut making. Gemma’s culinary repertoire includes all kinds of tantalizing baked goods, such as a three-layer s’more cake, cinnamon rolls, three-ingredient peanut butter cookies, lemon meringue cake and — according to Gemma’s Bigger Bolder Baking website — the “best-ever chocolate fudge frosting.” And that’s just the beginning.

As Gemma puts it, “I strive to boldly bake outside of the boxed cake.”

For boxed cake manufacturers, those are fighting Irish words — capable of provoking “cake rage.” Don’t laugh — cake rage is a “real” disorder, though it has nothing to do with Pillsbury or Betty Crocker getting in a huff over a little competition. Rather, Urban Dictionary defines “cake rage” as “a deep-seated anger and dissatisfaction with life, brought on by a lack of cake.”

Even knowing there’s such a condition makes Gemma’s selfdeclared mission almost heroic. It also provides yet another reason why home-baking these days needs to be simple, stress-free and fast — without sacrificing freshness or taste. In other words, “out-of-thebox” delicious.

Gemma’s Bigger Bolder Baking approach seems to be fulfilling that mission nicely. To date, her YouTube channel has almost 1.4 million subscribers. Not bad for an Irish lass from a small town in Ireland, where half of the population were her siblings. According to Gemma, it was there in that centuries-old village that her love of baking — as well as cooking — was incubated. “My ‘mam’ (mom) was a great cook,” says Gemma. “We were a large Irish family of seven and she made everything from scratch every single day. And she did this with such ease that cooking was never a big deal.”

“No big deal” cooking … sounds dreamy. But as Gemma so skillfully demonstrates, making quick, delicious desserts — and even dishes like fettuccine alfredo, crazy dough focaccia and mug pizza (a huge fan favorite) — doesn’t have to be an elusive dream; it can be an easy, everyday reality.

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Anyway you slice it, bold baker Gemma Stafford makes baking easy … and fun!

Some think it’s a “sin” not to like cinnamon rolls.

These rolls will make a believer out of you.

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Bigger, better and bolder baked peanut butter cookies for all.

Not just frosting on the cake, this fan-favorite fudge frosting takes the cake.

DURING MY COOKING CAREER, I’VE DONE THINGS RIGHT AND I’VE DONE THINGS WRONG. SO WHEN IT COMES TO THE RECIPES I PUT OUT THERE, WELL, FOR LACK OF A BETTER WORD, THEY’RE PRETTY MUCH FOOLPROOF.

This pizza loves to mug for the camera. And for good reason … it’s fast, tasty and adorably small.

That’s because Gemma learned from the best — not just from her “mam,” but also from Irish cooking legend Darina Allen at the world-renowned Ballymaloe Cookery School in County Cork, Ireland. As a child, Gemma would watch cooking shows on TV — no doubt longing for the day when she too would wow the world with her own culinary feats.

Not to be overlooked is the other group of Bigger Bolder Baking fans: canines. Gone are the days of hard, tasteless, storebought dog biscuits. Now you can toss the box, look deep into your dog’s hungry eyes and boldly declare, “Let him eat cake!” Okay, so maybe not cake exactly. But Gemma’s frozen peanut butter and banana doggie treats are the next best thing … vying only with her bone-shaped chicken and raspberry goodies (cats like them too) as a four-footed-fan favorite.

Not convinced? Let Gemma’s dog, Waffles, do the persuading. (An LA rescue dog never had it so good.) Gemma’s popular YouTube video of her adorable Wheaten Terrier mix lapping up the ingredients before Gemma can even finish mixing them is a hilarious, must-see viewing experience.

While baking is her business, Gemma turns to cooking when she needs a break. That’s right. You just can’t keep her out of the kitchen. After whipping up winsome treats for Waffles or “easy bake” cakes for her humanoid audience, Gemma cooks ethnic gems like from-scratch Indian food (including her own spices and curries), naan bread and homemade pizzas.

To those who don’t bake, are too timid to bake or feel their attempts thus far have been half-baked, Gemma has some encouraging words: “I’ve been using these recipes for years, so I know that they work. If there are any tricky instructions in the recipe, I will focus my energy on that and make sure that no one is going to slip up. During my cooking career, I’ve done things right and I’ve done things wrong. So when it comes to the recipes I put out there, well, for lack of a better word, they’re pretty much foolproof.”

Foolproof baking. Now those are words any aspiring baker would want to hear.

To watch Gemma Stafford bake up a storm, check out her Bigger Bolder Baking website and YouTube channel. www.biggerbolderbaking.com ❖

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ON LAUGHTER, TEARS AND ILLUSTRIOUS MOM,

BY ROBYN FLANS

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F E AT U R E “AS WORK SAVED MY MOTHER AND SCHOOL SAVED ME WHEN MY FATHER PASSED, HAVING THAT DISTRACTION SAVED ME. DID I FALL APART? MANY TIMES. WERE THERE DAYS THAT I DIDN’T WANT TO GET OUT OF BED? YES.”

PRESENTED LIKE A SCRAPBOOK WITH SCANNED PHOTOS

of her mother’s own index cards and pieces of papers on which she wrote her jokes, articles, letters, keepsakes and photos, Melissa Rivers shares her mother’s life in a book titled Joan Rivers Confidential.

Going through her mother’s memorabilia was difficult at times. It conjured up memories for Melissa. Even the good ones felt bittersweet in the wake of her mother’s passing in September 2014.

“Once we got into my childhood, teenage and adulthood years, it became very challenging,” she admits. “You’re reliving your life, going through your family’s history and not always going through things that were fantastic.”

She notes particularly the 1987 suicide of her father, Edgar Rosenberg and the aftermath of having to put their lives back together.

“I’m the one who got the phone call that my father had killed himself and had to tell my mother,” she recalls. “Suicide is a very complicated grieving process. I was 17 and very close to my father.”

Joan Rivers Confidential celebrates Joan Rivers. It’s not meant to bring insight into Melissa’s relationship with her mother, which she describes as “so normal.”

“I think that’s why so many people related to us on the red carpet. It was a very traditional mother-daughter relationship.

Was it always easy? Hell no! Did I have some problems that other kids didn’t have like when your mother would go on television and talk about you and you would be absolutely, horribly embarrassed? Yeah, that wasn’t so fun.”

For the most part, Melissa says, the home life was routine.

As a youngster her parents had a rule that she went with them if they were going to be gone longer than three weeks.

“Once I hit 7th grade, like if my mom was playing Vegas, my dad and I flew up on the weekends. My parents were very careful. I was never without one parent for a week and that was well into high school. They ran a very traditional home. We sat

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down for dinner every night and if they were going out to dinner, I had dinner up in their room while they were getting ready.”

She says she learned so much from her parents.

“My father was a huge Winston Churchill fan. I’m going to bastardize the quote but it’s something like: ‘When you find yourself in hell, keep walking.’

“And for my mother it was, ‘This too shall pass,’ but when she said it, it was meant for the good and the bad. In other words, in the good times, don’t forget, this too shall pass, so enjoy the moment and in the bad times, reflect on the good because this too shall pass.

It really works.”

People sent so much food to the hospital. I just put it out for everybody. I was so fortunate to have a private place to sleep. Everyone else was sleeping on the couches outside the unit. It really makes you see that you’re all just people suffering the same. I still have that Bible.”

Melissa says the responsibility of her now 16-year-old son, Cooper, the apple of her mother’s eye, made it necessary for her to keep going. She also was in charge of all the business matters.

“As work saved my mother and school saved me when my father passed, having that distraction saved me. Did I fall apart? Many times. Were there days that I didn’t want to get out of bed? Yes.” Writing Joan Rivers Confidential was cathartic. Returning to the carpet, expanding the jewelry line on QVC and this new book has kept Melissa out of bed.

Reflecting on her favorite memories, Melissa says she always loved Thanksgiving. “That was one of the hardest things for me after my father passed,” she admits. “My mother was the matriarch of the whole family and there was always the rule if someone didn’t have somewhere to go, they would come to our house. Right after the year she passed, I hosted one (Thanksgiving) in New York and it was so hard sitting in her place, but now we’ve moved them to Los Angeles and I love that we’re continuing that tradition because they are some of my best memories as a child. They are some of Cooper’s best, too, so I’ve taken on the mantel.”

The best, best memories are of the laughing.

“Picking up the phone and being able to say to her, ‘Oh my God, you’re not going to believe what happened,’ or to talk about people we both know and say, ‘Can you believe this sh--?’ Just having her to laugh with and get on the phone and giggle are the best memories and things I miss the most.” ❖

ELISSA SAYS SHE INHERITED HER

mother’s heart, determination and generosity of spirit, but also the penchant for sometimes not thinking before speaking.

“I definitely am at the lower end of that range. I probably should think about what I say sometimes before I say it. I spend a lot of time saying, ‘No I’m kidding, really.’ And then I get in the car and think, ‘That person has no sense of humor.’”

Losing her mother, she says, was losing not only her last family member, but also her business partner and “Fashion Police” co-hort. She adds that there were some humbling moments.

“There were a lot of people who had family in that unit going through the same kind of pain and confusion,” she says. “A profound thing happened that horrible week. The hospital was generous enough to put us in a private area with some recliners where I slept.

I was walking down the hall one day when a Hispanic lady and her son approached me. She barely spoke English and they said, ‘We’re praying for you.’ She handed me her Bible and they put their arms around me and said a prayer in Spanish. You don’t forget those things. It doesn’t matter who you are. We’re all in it together.

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F I V E FAV E S

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS: PARADES THAT LIGHT UP THE NIGHT

THE HOLIDAYS ARE A TIME WHEN LOVED ONES GATHER TOGETHER TO HAVE FUN, MAKE MEMORIES,

and celebrate the joy of the season—and nothing is more festive and joyful than a good ol’ fashioned holiday parade, especially one that fills the darkness with laughter and light.

KARMA CHRISTINE SALVATO

COURTESY OF DOWNTOWN SANTA BARBARA

BY

1 SANTA BARBARA

Annual Downtown Santa Barbara Holiday Parade WHEN: Friday, December 1, 2017; 6:30 p.m.

WHERE: State Street, from Sola to Cota The Annual Downtown Santa Barbara Holiday Parade is Santa Barbara’s only nighttime parade that officially kicks off the holiday season each year. More than 65,000 spectators gather at State Street for this highly anticipated event. This year’s theme, “Colors of the Season,” focuses on the many traditions, holidays, and colors of the winter season. Vibrant colors, kaleidoscopes, rainbows, and anything festively neon or colorful serves as inspiration for the downtown extravaganza. This signature Santa Barbara event unites a massive mixture of elaborate holiday-themed floats, entertaining performance groups, local personalities, and high-stepping marching bands. This spirited community tradition is a holiday event not to be missed!

DOWNTOWNSB.ORG H

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COURTESY OF MARINA DEL REY BOAT PARADE

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2 LOS ANGELES

Marina Del Rey Holiday Boat Parade WHEN: Saturday, December 9, 2017; 6:00-8:00 p.m.

WHERE: Check website for viewing spots Featuring a pre-parade fireworks show, Marina Del Rey’s Holiday Boat Parade is one of the premier events and traditions Marina Del Rey has to offer, attracting approximately 25,000 viewers each year. A continued favorite community event, the boat parade kicks off the holiday season in Marina Del Rey. The 3rd Annual Snow Wonder event is a day full of fun for attendees in the Marina leading up to the Boat Parade. It is a free event providing children the opportunity to go sledding, enjoy real snow, partake in arts and crafts and face painting, rock out to a live DJ, grab a snack from surrounding food trucks, and much, much more!

MDRBOATPARADE.ORG

3 SAN DIEGO

San Diego Bay Parade Of Lights WHEN: December 10 & 17, 2017; 5:00 p.m.

WHERE: The parade will proceed to the

pier at Cesar Chavez Park before making the turn to Coronado

SDPARADEOFLIGHTS.ORG

COURTESY OF SAN DIEGO BAY PARADE OF LIGHTS

Brought to San Diego by the boating community, and presented by the Port of San Diego the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is a holiday tradition among locals. It has become one of the most iconic events in the region and attracts more than 10,000 San Diego residents and visitors to the shores of San Diego Bay each year. With approximately eighty extravagantly decorated vessels of every shape and size lighting up the night sky, the 46th Annual San Diego Parade of Lights will entertain and captivate bayfront crowds this December. For added insight into the participating boats, viewers can watch the parade near the announcers’ areas where a brief history and description of the participating vessels will be shared as each boat passes.

Anyone with a boat can enter and join the fun! According to their website, “the Parade of Lights is a festive and delightful experience for all!”

H

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SEREN

An enticing fragrance composed around

Sold at www.serenapothecary.com and

Osmanthus blossoms. The wearer will be transported to a vintage convertible on a country road. Just imagine, worn leather seats and the gentle hum of the engine as warm summer air envelopes the body.

This hypnotic essence introduces refreshing

766 Lakefield Rd, Westlake Village, CA 91361 www.beautyhabit.com

top notes of lemon, hints of gardenia and a kiss of sheer Jasmine. Base notes of tea and bergamot give Willow an intoxicating warmth. This delicate and fresh scent is uniquely seductive.

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4 ORANGE COUNTY

A Christmas Fantasy Parade WHEN: Returning November 2017 through Early January 2018 WHERE: Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland Park

PAUL HIFFMEYER-DISNEYLAND RESORT

A holiday parade list wouldn’t be complete without the addition of Disneyland’s A Christmas Fantasy Parade. This all-ages magical and merry musical celebration returns to Main Street, U.S.A. this November. Prancing reindeer, marching toy soldiers, and dancing gingerbread cookies are just some of the many attractions that will liven up the enchanting event. Along the parade route, guests will be entertained as the Disney Princesses dance and curtsy at the Candlelight Ball; Mickey and Minnie work with Chip ‘n Dale to organize an avalanche of letters to Santa; and Anna, Elsa, and Olaf bid you a warm winter welcome from their fantastic Frozen float. Beloved Disney characters including Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Disney Princesses, and many more familiar faces join Santa Claus for a fun-filled, joyful jaunt in this delightful Disneyland Park tradition!

DISNEYLAND.DISNEY.GO.COM

5 PALM SPRINGS

Palm Springs Festival Of Lights Parade WHEN: Saturday, December 2, 2017; 5:45 p.m.

WHERE: Palm Canyon Drive

JEFF COLLIER

Presented by the City of Palm Springs, the 25th Annual Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade welcomes Suzanne Somers as this year’s Celebrity Grand Marshal. Eric and Lindsey Bennett, stars of the HGTV series Desert Flippers, will be the Community Grand Marshals. Through the years the parade has evolved into a beloved and highly anticipated holiday tradition in the downtown Palm Springs area, drawing in an estimated 100,000 people annually. In the past, the parade has featured the Budweiser Clydesdales, various marching bands and performing groups, Santa and Mrs. Claus, and even Mickey and Minnie Mouse have made an appearance. According to the parade’s website, “It is the parade’s signature floats adorned in thousands of colorful holiday lights and huge Macy’s-style balloons that keeps the crowds coming back for more!”

The parade has been consistently voted one of the best local events in the Coachella Valley. ❖ PSFESTIVALOFLIGHTS.COM

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CARLOS DELGADO/AP IMAGES FOR BEVERLY HILLS CONFERENCE & VISITORS BUREAU (2)

F E AT U R E

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: 1. Mayor Lili Bosse will

officially launch Beverly Hills' first BOLD Holidays during the opening ceremonies November 16. 2. Based upon the huge success of BOLD — Beverly Hills Open Later Days — in August, BOLD Holidays will again present extended shopping hours, live concerts, restaurant promotions, and spectacular holiday lighting throughout the city. 3. The brilliant artists behind HYBYCOZO and their luminous display in Beverly Canon Gardens for the first Beverly Hills BOLD Holidays combines tech-world influences with geometric and laser-cut polyhedron designs. 4. HYBYCOZO is internationally recognized for its creative works including this temporary installation for the iLight Marina Bay Light Art Festival in Singapore in March 2017. 5. A dazzling display of sculptures by HYBYCOZO like those shown in this rendering will be installed for all to enjoy in Beverly Canon Gardens from November 16 through the first week in January.

Beverly Hills

PRESENTS UNPRECEDENTED HOLIDAY LIGHT DISPLAYS

SCULPTURES BY HYBYCOZO

BY LINDA LANG

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“Beverly Hills has always been a special place during the holidays, but this year we are taking a BOLD approach (Beverly Hills Open Later Days)! Not only will our famous stores be open later, but we will have spectacular décor on nearly every street and music and events throughout the season!”

Mayor Lili Bosse

SERGE BEAULIEU

SCULPTURES BY HYBYCOZO

B

everly Hills always shines brightly during the holidays; however, this year its holiday lights will be beyond anything you have ever seen in the city.

Starting November 16, this elegant shopper's paradise will introduce BOLD Holidays, featuring an unprecedented series of stunning geometric and iridescent light installations along North and South Beverly Drive, Canon Drive and Rodeo Drive along with a dazzling display of sculptures by HYBYCOZO in Beverly Canon Gardens.

BOLD Holidays is based upon this summer's highlysuccessful BOLD August campaign which changed the scope of the city's nightlife scene. Over 90 retail businesses including Chanel, Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana and Louis Vuitton remained open every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday until 8:00 p.m. Numerous complimentary activities included live entertainment with popular DJs and a performance by Grammy-Award winning Latin jazz and conguero band leader, Poncho Sanchez. Other attractions included: Rodeo Drive’s popular #ONLYONRODEO Floral Art Installation, colorful sidewalk art in front of numerous merchants, style sessions with fashion influencers Brad Goreski and Marianna Hewitt, a stunning art exhibit at the Lily Pond by Ed Massey, luxury car ride and drives along Rodeo Drive, dining specials at participating Beverly Hills restaurants for BOLD shoppers and a fireworks show concluding the opening night ceremonies.

With the shops, stores, and restaurants eager to build upon the success of BOLD, the City of Beverly Hills, Beverly Hills Conference & Visitors Bureau, the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce and Rodeo Drive Committee decided to join forces again to present BOLD Holidays, a celebration of the season with lights, activities and special offers throughout the city.

The season begins with the Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration sponsored by Baccarat and GEARYS Beverly Hills. Shopping hours in participating stores will once again be extended to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday evenings. Many of the city’s restaurants will have special offers for diners who show receipts for purchases made after 6 p.m. at participating BOLD retailers. BOLD Holiday evenings will also include festive activities throughout the city including holiday music, live entertainment, light bites, warm drinks, in-store events and much more.

Stay updated regarding additional details and a calendar of BOLD Holiday activities by visiting lovebeverlyhills.com/boldholidays. ❖

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THE MANY FACES OF

ANTA MONICA B Y LINDA LANG / P H O T O S TRAVEL & TOURISM

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: 1. The 5-acre site upon which

COURTESY OF

SANTA MONICA

the Annenberg Community Beach House now sits was originally developed by William Randolph Hearst for actress Marion Davies. 2. Goods, a tiny shop on Ocean Park Blvd., carries a curated selection of handcrafted artisan goods from around the world. 3. The Pico Branch Library offers free access to computers, the Internet, and the library's many electronic resources including its online catalog. 4. Just a short walk from downtown, Montana Avenue is home to some 150 merchants and restaurants.

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I

Among the many independently-owned shops along Main Street are Mindfulnest which offers jewelry, accessories and art by local designers and artists. Lost & Found has one store carrying clothing and accessories from independent designers and a second offering home goods crafted by local and global artisans. If you're into buying or selling collectibles, Angel City Books & Records has a great selection of classic literature, vintage music and a gallery of work by local artists.

MID-CITY

IT MAY BE ONE CITY BUT IT HAS MULTIPLE PERSONALITIES

— eight to be exact — in an area spanning just 8.3 square miles.

Connected by famed boulevards and wide tree-shaded streets frequented by joggers, bikes, sports cars and convertibles, each embraces its own character and attractions.

Together, they offer everything from high-end department stores, exclusive designer boutiques, upscale home décor and art galleries to resale shops, locally-made artisan goods, entertainment venues, farmer's markets, and a wide range of innovative restaurants. And then there are the historic landmarks, airport, pier, Santa Monica College, and, of course, three and a half miles of sun-drenched, white-sand beach with bike paths, volleyball courts, restaurants, surfing and fishing spots.

Mid-City, home to several large entertainment companies, is the arts and entertainment hub. Bergamot Station, a former railroad depot, houses a number of art galleries including one of the largest contemporary art collections in Los Angeles.

The Broad Stage at Santa Monica City College has become one of the city's most popular theatrical venues. Mid-City is also where you'll find premium sports equipment at Bay Street Boards staffed by lifelong surfers, and Rip City Skates where skateboarders have hung out since 1978 after Santa Monica turned the sport into a popular craze. H

DOWNTOWN & THIRD STREET PROMENADE The promenade has emerged as a premier open-air pedestrian shopping and foodie paradise. Covering three car-free blocks, it's anchored by upscale Santa Monica Place — home to Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Nike, Kate Spade New York, ArcLight Cinemas, and others and the end of the new Expo line connecting to Santa Monica to the westside and downtown Los Angeles.

The Wednesday Farmer's Market at Arizona Avenue and 2nd Street features fresh produce and goods from over 75 farmers, making it one of the largest grower-only Certified Farmers Markets in California. On Saturdays at the same location is a second very popular market with over 60% of the produce sold organically grown.

Downtown is also home to the historic Georgian Hotel and legendary Fairmont Miramar Hotel frequented over the decades

by President Bill Clinton and other notables. Adjacent to the Miramar, The Bungalow with its cozy lodge-style rooms and spectacular ocean views is one of the most popular gathering spots for the young crowd.

MAIN STREET You immediately notice a slower pace where early morning surfers like to breakfast leisurely while others choose to jog or bike ride before work. The eateries are also a bit laid back. Local favorites include Aussie Pie Kitchen where Food Network Chopped TV show champ chef Joe Youkhan has reinvented the Australian meat pie, and Enterprise Fish Company which has served daily-caught mesquite-grilled fish for 37 years. For dessert fans, Three Twins Ice Creams presents the widest selection of organic ice cream in the country with a portion of all proceeds donated to saving rain forests and other habitats.

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DOWNTOWN IS ALSO HOME TO THE HISTORIC GEORGIAN HOTEL AND LEGENDARY FAIRMONT MIRAMAR HOTEL FREQUENTED OVER THE DECADES BY PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON AND OTHER NOTABLES.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: 5. Shops boldly exhibit distinctive artwork along Main Street. 6. The Broad Stage at Santa Monica City College has become one the city's most popular theatrical venues 7. Winding biking and jogging paths and volleyball courts offer lots of fun in the sun. 8. Farmer's Market at Arizona Avenue and 2nd Street is one of is one of the largest grower-only Certified Farmers Markets in California.

9. The city was named after Saint Monica whose statue stands watch in Palisades Park. 10. Top quality coffees, savories and sweets are 18th Street Coffee House specialties. 11. The Third Street Promenade has emerged as a premier open-air pedestrian shopping and foodie paradise.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: 12. The Bungalow, next to the

Miramar Hotel, is one of the hottest gathering spots for the young crowd. 13. Pacific ® Park on Santa Monica Pier offers 12 thrill rides including the world's only solar-powered Ferris wheel. 14. Wilshire Boulevard has a number of graffiti murals. 15. Iconic Santa Monica State Beach on the north side of the pier connects to the city via a series of bridges, walkways and stairs. 16. The "Whale of a Mural" by Daniel Alonzo is one of the striking murals along Ocean Park Blvd. 17. Upper West on Pico, which feels like a Tribeca loft with 28-foot ceilings and chicly-lit extended bar, is known for its happy hours and roasted veggie burgers. 18. Primo Passo, the casual coffee lovers spot on Montana Avenue serves top-notch beverages in a modern, minimalist setting with shaded sidewalk seating.

OCEAN AVENUE AND SANTA MONICA PIER AREA Ocean Avenue is best

known for the official end of Route 66 and 108-year-old Santa Monica Pier with its solar-powered Ferris wheel and Pacific Park's amusement rides and games. You'll also find lots of diverse, oceanfront restaurants along with tanned bodies, surfers, and body builders to observe while dining or meandering along the beachfront.

The pier has also seen its share of ups and downs and has barely escaped demolition several times. Following a complete renovation in 1996, an amusement park was added along with the aquarium, and the deck became a popular venue for outdoor concerts, movies and other entertainment. KTLA also televised the first live variety show from here in 1948 starring western musician Spade Cooley and his band.

The Buffalo Club on Olympic is known for its American menu of small plates as well as main dishes served in the supper club-style Iroquois Room or Garden Courtyard. Bay Cities Italian Bakery and Deli is a popular spot for imported wines, cheeses, gourmet goodies and great sandwiches.

MONTANA AVENUE Although just a short walk from downtown, Montana Avenue seems far removed from all the activity around the pier and promenade. Home to some 150 merchants and restaurants, there's Artisan chocolatiers John and Kelly's award-winning boutique, John Kelly Chocolates; Limonaia’s handcrafted home goods, jewelry and goods from around the globe; and Shopaholic Sample Sales which carries trendy designer clothing for gals at discounts of 50 to 80 percent. Popular eateries include Father's Office, a gastropub founded by chef Sang Yoon of TV’s Top Chef Masters fame that serves tapas, salads and burgers. And then there's Sweet Lady Jane, the café and bakery that twice made the list of “Oprah’s Favorite Things.”

For those seeking to further their personal well-being, Mighty Pilates offers more than 75 classes weekly while Yogaworks , which is home to some of the country's most influential yoga teachers, offers classes for all ages and experience levels.

WILSHIRE BOULEVARD One of the most renowned streets in Southern California, Wilshire Boulevard starts at Ocean Avenue and adheres to a pretty straight path to its end in downtown L.A.. It passes Douglas Park with its lawn bowling green, reflecting pools, picnic tables, playground, and tennis courts. The boulevard is also lined with fine dining spots including Mélisse, the elegant five-star restaurant owned by two-star Michelin chef Josiah Citrin. You can also build your own Hawaiian poke bowl at Spinfish Poke House or order one of their signature bowls. Into chocolate, banana split or churro waffles? Bru's Wiffle reinvents breakfast classics.

The area is also known for its designer consignment shops as well as stores like Johnnie-O, a stylish men’s boutique offering beachwear, polo shirts and oxfords. For those looking for the perfect shoe fit, New Balance carries hundreds of styles fitted by trained professionals.

OCEAN PARK BOULEVARD AND SANTA MONICA AIRPORT AREA Southeast of the pier is Ocean Park Boulevard with its coffee shops, boutiques, art galleries and just to the east, Santa Monica

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Airport .

An active airport for private jets, it's also home to the Museum of Flying housing some 24 aircraft, a flight simulator, and interactive area. Adjacent is the Spitfire Grill also filled with World War II and Douglas Aircraft memorabilia. Antique collectors also frequent the bi-monthly Santa Monica Airport Outdoor Antique & Collectible Market, where you can find some rare treasures at pretty good prices.

The Ruskin Theatre at the airport is also considered one of the best off-the-beaten-path playhouses in L.A. Nearby is 17.9-acre Clover Park with picnic tables, BBQ grills, playgrounds, baseball diamond, softball and soccer fields, volleyball, tennis courts and a 15-station par fitness course. Ocean Park Boulevard, funky and diverse, has its own local vibe, eclectic restaurants, and trendy boutiques — especially the shopping scene at 18th Street.

PICO BOULEVARD One of the most ethnically diverse neighborhoods is along Pico Boulevard, another major street connecting the city to downtown L.A..

On the south side of Santa Monica, Pico is alive with activities at Santa Monica College's performing arts venues and planetarium, award-winning dining, clothing boutiques, record stores, art galleries and a smaller Saturday farmers' market.

Here you'll find Piero Selvaggio’s Valentino, one of the nation's most acclaimed Italian restaurants, and The Upper West with innovative cuisine by talented 31-year-old chef Nick Shipp. Situated in Shutters on the Beach is Coast, an ocean-view restaurant with patio dining serving regional and Mexican items. For casual dining, The Brixton gastropub offers comfort food and brews.

For vintage-inspired dresses, leather jackets and novelty gifts, check out Brat. Chris + Mary is another laid-back shop stocking high-quality home goods, accessories, and clothing made by local artisans.

There's also small Farmer's Market at Virginia Park with live music on weekends.

Explore and enjoy! ❖

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TO - D O - L I ST

The Wizard’s Lair

DARE TO ESCAPE FROM

THE ULTIMATE ESCAPE ROOMS BY

The Attic

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Step outside of your comfort zone and try something new this weekend!

The Ultimate Escape Room in Ventura California is sure to thrill friends and family of all ages. For up to sixty minutes, brave participants solve puzzles, search for hidden clues and codes, and work together to find the key to unlock the door. Customers choose from a variety of themed rooms. A group of up to eight will try to escape an evil wizard’s magic in “The Wizard’s Lair”, unlock the door of a hair-raising adventure in “We’re All Mad Here” or get out of “The Attic” before you have to face the horrible truths of your family’s past. There is even a new escape room geared just for children ages 2 ½-6. The Ultimate Escape Rooms are not scary like a haunted house, but rather an entertaining, adventurous and active way to challenge yourself and your friends. Owner Annette Cortez adds “It's all about having fun. Facilitating people in spending quality time together is a great honor.” Along with date nights and girls’ night out, The Ultimate Escape Rooms are a perfect birthday party or corporate team-building venue and catering can be coordinated with other restaurants and shops in the harbor at your request. Call (805) 256-6600 to book your appointment. The Ultimate Escape Rooms are located at 1591 Spinnaker Drive #117 C, Ventura, CA 93001 in The Ventura Harbor Village. ❖

THE ULTIMATE ESCAPE ROOMS ARE NOT SCARY LIKE A HAUNTED HOUSE, BUT RATHER AN ENTERTAINING, ADVENTUROUS AND ACTIVE WAY TO CHALLENGE YOURSELF AND YOUR FRIENDS.

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IT’S SO AMAZING HERE AT CHRISTMAS. THE WHOLE VILLAGE IS LIT UP WITH LED LIGHTS. THE CHRISTMAS MUSIC IS OLD SCHOOL AND EVERYBODY WEARS BEAUTIFUL COSTUMES. IT’S ALL ABOUT THE DETAILS.

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SKYPARK AT SANTA’S VILLAGE TRANSPORTS VISITORS INTO AN AUTHENTIC WOODSY VILLAGE FILLED WITH ADVENTURE AND OLD HOLIDAY CHARM. BY

ROBYN FLANS

J

JUST ABOUT TWO MILES OUTSIDE OF LAKE ARROWHEAD,

Michelle Johnson, one of the park’s owners and executive events coordinator, says the holiday experience - from November 9 to January 9 - whether it be a day trip or longer, must not be missed.

Johnson says the beautiful rustic setting at Santa’s Village provides a very sweet and nostalgic occasion for guests.

“Santa has his own house here, which is where people want their photo taken. There are Santa experiences and character experiences. We have our own princesses like Princess Sugarplum who is the princess of the land of sweets and one of our main characters is Arrow, Santa’s dog,” says Johnson.

There is a pedal ride named Arrow’s Adventure as you enter the park.

“You go through a tunnel and it’s all about the story of Arrow and how he has to find Santa’s magic key so he can go around the world and open up all the houses to deliver presents,” Johnson explains.

Crafts in Santa’s workshop and cookie decorating are part of the holiday activities as well as the ice rink (converts to a roller skating rink in summer), all included in one ticket price. H

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There’s a daily tree lighting parade which Santa attends and live entertainment.

“It’s so amazing here at Christmas,” Johnson says. “The whole village is lit up with LED lights. The Christmas music is old school and everybody wears beautiful costumes. It’s all about the details.”

Those are just the holiday attractions. The other features of the park remain around the year such as the 230 acres of outdoor activities.

“Everything here is human powered,” Johnson says. “That means you have to pedal it yourself or work for it yourself. The only ride we have is a train ride, but it’s electric and that was done on purpose. Everything in our park has been converted to conserve energy and water.”

There are multiple bike and hiking trails, forest guided tours, mountain biking, as well as a nature-inspired kid’s playground with a miniature zipline, and a small child pedal car ride. The little ones can take a journey around Santa’s dump truck on a Strider Bike, powered only by foot propulsion.

“There is a 30-foot climbing tower called Frozen Falls,” Johnson says. “It’s themed as an iceberg. We also have a climbing room that is inside of a building which has multiple levels of climbing - for kids, adults and experts.”

There is a Serrano archery range, themed for their local Native American Indians. It is one of Johnson’s personal favorite activities. There is also a bungee, which Johnson

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SKYPARKSANTASVILLAGE.COM

SKYPARK IS VERY DIFFERENT FROM YOUR TYPICAL AMUSEMENT PARK. IT IS VERY CHILDCENTERED AND VERY FAMILY ORIENTED. IT’S MORE ABOUT SPENDING TIME TOGETHER THAN BEING ENTERTAINED.

describes as a “reverse bungee where you bounce on a trampoline.”

Johnson and co-owners spent about three years restoring the original Santa’s Village which they purchased in 2013. It originally opened in 1955, six weeks prior to the debut of Disneyland, closed in 1998, and was in terrible shape by the time of the purchase.

They created a new concept and after reshaping, restoring and remodeling, they re-opened on December 2, 2016.

During the holiday off-season, the North Pole theme remains, and Santa makes appearances, but Johnson explains Santa’s Village is no longer what would be described as an amusement park. It is more of an adventure park.

Johnson touted the various eateries as well: St. Nick’s Patio and Grille, Gatherings BBQ House, K’s

Kandyshoppe and Creamery, The Pedal Pub, Kringle’s Coffee & Gifts and she called The Gingerbread House “awesome and historic.”

“It looks like something out of Disneyland,” Johnson says. “We make our own gingerbread there.”

There is also a wedding venue on the scenic property that has become very popular.

“Skypark is very different from your typical amusement park,” Johnson says. “It is very child-centered and very family oriented. It’s more about spending time together than being entertained. It’s about the quality time that people don’t usually get because it’s slower paced here. It’s not, ‘Oh my gosh we have to run and do this and run and do that. We have to get our money’s worth.’ We offer a very good price for what you get and you can take your time. You don’t have to worry about how many lines you’ve going to be in. It’s very authentic.

Every single building is 1955, it feels very real. It’s been built from the logs on the property and I think people really enjoy that.” ❖

28950 California 18, Skyforest, CA 92385 HOURS: Thurs. - Sat. 10-9 / Sun 10-6 PRICES: Holiday Pricing — Online Pre-Sale General Admission: $59 Adult / $49 Child / $49 Senior General Admission at the Gate: $65 Adult/ $55 Child/ $55 Senior Summer SkyPark — General Admission: $29 Adult/ $19 For more info: info@skyparksantasvillage.com or 909-744-9373

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NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER

EVENING FOR THE STATION November 1st 6:00pm-9:00pm

facebook.com/USHSNews

t Come enjoy a magical night at for a good cause.

Magicians and illusionists from all over are coming together to benefit Union Station Homeless Services.

The event will take place at The Rose in Pasadena, and will include dinner and a show. The proceeds will benefit a good cause. Please join us for a night of magic and feel good doing it.

Movies: Buster Keaton’s The General,” featuring Emmy Award-winning composer Jeff Beal (House of Cards) conducting the world premiere of his score for the seminal 1926 silent action-adventure comedy.

The Orchestra performs live to the film for this entertaining evening of cinema and music, suitable for the entire family.

ODEYSSEO

BY CAVALIA November 11 November 26

cavalia.com/venturacounty/ #anchor_calendar

The $30 million equestrian and acrobatic extravaganza expands the definition of performance into an epic, yet soulful theatrical experience. A show unlike any other on the planet, this awe-inspiring production features 65 magnificent horses and 50 talented riders, acrobats, aerialists, dancers and musicians.

Odysseo is the masterpiece of Normand Latourelle, creator of Cavalia Inc. and renowned for combining different forms of artistic expression and reinventing the scenic space.

t

“THE FIGURE” EXHIBIT BY JOHN ASARO November 10thDecember 30th meyerfineartinc.com

GRAMMY AWARD WINNER MELISSA ETHERIDGE AND OLYMPIC CHAMPION LAURIE HERNANDEZ HEADLINE JUMP, JIVE & THRIVE, WITH PERFORMANCES BY LINDSEY STIRLING AND MARK BALLAS FOR AN ALL-STAR CELEBRATION OF CANCER SURVIVORSHIP TO BENEFIT THE BREAST CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION October 8th jumpjiveandthrive.com

t JUMP, JIVE & THRIVE will present a star-studded unique live show for the whole family combining the best of music, gymnastics and dance to celebrate cancer survivorship.

Melissa Etheridge, iconic cancer survivor and activist, and Laurie Hernandez, Olympic Gold Medalist gymnast and Dancing with the Stars winner (who lost her grandmother to cancer while on the show), will headline. Billboard chart-topping electronic violinist Lindsey Stirling, now on Dancing with the Stars, will perform, accompanied by saxophonist Dave Koz, and Olympic Gold medalist Nastia Liukin will perform a spectacular gymnastics and dance tribute to music by Lindsey’s DWTS partner Mark Ballas and wife BC Jean, Erin Bowman will also perform, with more guest stars to be announced. Over 20 Olympic and Collegiate champions including Jordyn Wieber, Sam Peszek, Betty Okino and the 2017-2018 UCLA women’s gymnastics team will perform, paying tribute to their six time Bruin NCAA championship coach and cancer survivor,Valorie Kondos Field. Cancer survivor and America’s Got Talent semi-finalist Calysta Bevier will also lend her talent. There will be dance performances by Dance Moms’ Chloe Lukasiak, cast members of Dancing with the Stars, and a very special performance by Le Rêve. The show will be hosted by cancer survivors Olympic Gold Medalist Scott Hamilton, Shannon Miller, the most decorated American gymnast in history, and TV personality Samantha Harris. Many more celebrity cancer survivors will be participating. The event takes place at UCLA’s Pauley Pavilion on October 8th at 6pm, and will be aired on CBS-TV on Saturday, October 21.

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t Come enjoy the opening reception of John Asaro’s new exhibition titled “The Figure” at Meyer Fine Art, Inc on Saturday, Nov. 18, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Asaro is a San Diego based artist, known for his colorful works of the human body. The show will feature 40 to 50 pieces that have never been seen before including themes of ballet dancers, scenes from the Spartacus Ballet and a special Amy Winehouse collection.Guests will have the opportunity to meet Asaro and view his artwork while enjoying refreshments, small bites and live entertainment.

LA CHAMBER ORCHESTRA @ THE MOVIES: BUSTER KEATON’S THE GENERAL November 11th laco.org

t Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, celebrating its roots in the film and television recording industry, presents “LACO @ the

DISNEY’S FROZEN SING-ALONG WITH SPECIAL GUEST HOSTS ANNA AND ELSA! November 11th CivicArtsPlaza.com

Sing-along hosts Anna and Elsa will be on-board LIVE ONSTAGE to guide the crowd as we get ready for the winter season by reliving the magic of Disney’s animated hit Frozen in a sing along event the whole family can enjoy.

Watch the beloved movie play out on a large screen and sing along to all of the movie’s most popular songs, including “Let It Go.” Onscreen lyrics make it easy to join in the fun, and dressing up as your favorite character only adds to the enjoyment.

“Let go” of your inhibitions because on this day, you’re the Snow Queen/Snowman of the night!

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AFI FEST

November 9-16 afi.com/afifest/#

t AFI FEST presented by Audi is the American Film Institute’s annual celebration of international cinema from modern masters and emerging filmmakers. It takes place each fall in Hollywood, CA, and features nightly red-carpet galas, special screenings, conversations and tributes. AFI FEST remains the first and only festival of its stature that is free to the public, offering the best of current cinema in Hollywood.

THE COLOR RUN DREAM TOUR, PRESENTED BY LAY’S®, COMES TO LOS ANGELES November 12th

family on this long weekend, Liberty Station has something for everyone.

thecolorrun.com/locations/ los-angeles

t The Color Run®, the largest 5k event series in the world, will bring its 2017 tour theme, The Color Run Dream Tour, presented by Lay’s®, to StubHub Center on Sunday, November 12, kicking off at 9:00 a.m. The Color Run Dream Tour will create a world where anything is possible, unicorns are real and foam clouds make everything better. The 2017 theme will make Color Runners’ dreams a lot more colorful with unforgettable music, color throws and an all new Lay’s® Poppables™ Foam Zone and Dream Wall. The Los Angeles run will benefit Back on My Feet, an organization that combats homelessness through the power of running, community support and essential employment and housing resources.

SURFIN’ SANTA RIDES THE WAVES IN SAN DIEGO FOR 12TH ANNUAL EVENT November 25th seaportvillage.com

t Ditching the reindeer and traditional cold-weather garb, Saint Nick will don his

favorite Hawaiian tee and boardshorts for Surfin’ Santa’s Arrival. After a special waterfront arrival, visitors can hang-ten with Santa for free photos on his giant surfboard and six-foot wave.

Following his arrival, Santa will cruise down the boardwalk in a sleek red convertible for a festive parade featuring live music, stilt walkers and holiday cheer. Kids crafting, live street performances and a variety of unique local shops and eateries will keep visitors entertained throughout the warmweathered holiday event.

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY @ LIBERTY STATION

libertystation.com

t Small Business Saturday is November 25. It is a day to support small businesses and celebrate your community. With hundreds of locally owned and operated shops, Liberty Station is the perfect place to show your support for San Diego businesses. Whether you’re seeking to get ahead on your holiday shopping or dine with

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67TH ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY IN OXNARD December 1st visitoxnard.com

t Visitors can watch in awe as Ventura County’s tallest Christmas tree is illuminated. The evening includes the debut of the Winter Fantasy Music & Light Show taking place throughout the month of December plus a visit from Santa Claus!

Admission is free.

HARVEST FESTIVAL® ORIGINAL ART AND CRAFT SHOW POMONA December 1st-3rd harvestfestival.com

t Revered as the largest and most prestigious indoor showcase on the west coast, the Harvest Festival features artisan treasures of stunning jewelry, clothing, specialty foods, photography, oils, hand-turned wood, music, ceramics, eclectic art pieces, seasonal décor, ornaments, and much more. Beyond the hundreds of artists and entertainment, each showcase collaborates with local nonprofits to fundraise in support of community programs.

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SONO FEST AND CHILI COOK OFF December 3rd sandiego.org/explore/events/festivals-and-streetfairs/sono-park-holiday-fest-and-chilipalooza.aspx

t More than 40 celebrated restaurants from North and South Park are coming out to see who’s chilli with reign supreme. First guest get to pick out their very own hand spun ceramic bowl, then they get to begin sampling chilli.

There will also be live music and a beer garden to keep the party going, as well as kids activities to keep the whole family entertained.

THE NUTCRACKER BY MIAMI CITY BALLET IN LOS ANGELES December 7th-10th musiccenter.org

In a move sure to delight children and families, The Music Center, L.A.’s performing arts destination, announced it will bring a favorite holiday tradition back to Los Angeles with a co-commission of an all-new production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® by Miami City Ballet. The production has new sets and costumes by Cuban-American artist-designer power couple Isabel and Ruben Toledo. For the first time, student dancers from two L.A.-based arts academies, Colburn School and The Gabriella Foundation’s everybody dance! program will perform.

ARTWORK BY RUBEN TOLEDO COLUMBINE

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19TH ANNUAL LITTLE ITALY TREE LIGHTING AND CHRISTMAS VILLAGE December 2nd littleitalysd.com

t Little Italy is decking the halls for the 19th Annual Little Italy Tree Lighting and Christmas Village on Saturday, Dec. 2 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Families, friends and neighbors will experience Little Italy transforming into a winter wonderland and enjoy the community’s festive décor, seasonal vendors, live music and entertainment, horse carriage rides, holiday treats, a tree lighting, a visit from Santa, and more!

BRIAN SETZER ORCHESTRA’S 14TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS ROCKS! December 18th briansetzerorchestra tickets.com

t Returning to Santa Barbara for the second year, original Stray Cat Brian Setzer brings his 19-piece orchestra to the Granada Theatre to whip up a huge dose of retro holiday cheer with his Christmas Rocks!

Tour Monday, December 18. The acclaimed show

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also features music from their latest Christmas album, Rockin’ Rudolph, their three other best-selling holiday albums, as well as original Brian Setzer hits.

Consistently cited as one of the world’s greatest living guitarists, Setzer’s trademark guitar work and vocal stylings are matched with the Brian Setzer Orchestra’s rockin’ big-band horn arrangements—an unbeatable combination guaranteed to rock you into the holiday spirit!

FALL BACK FESTIVAL November 6th

gaslamp.org/events/ fall-back-festival/

t Travel back in time and experience a taste of the old west at the Fall Back Festival. Kids are welcome to saddle up for pony rides, or they can get a taste of California’s gold rush by panning for their own gold.

The festival is free to the public, with nominal fees for some of the activities.

The proceeds will go toward the Gaslamp Historical Foundation. This family friendly festival has plenty of activities to keep parents and kids entertained.

SAN DIEGO JAZZ FEST November 22nd-26th www.sdjazzfest.org

This event is conveniently located in San Diego’s Town and Country Resort Convention Center. This festival brings together many different styles of jazz, from traditional jazz, to swing and much much more. The concert rooms are small and intimate creating the perfect listening environment. They also have dance floors for those looking to get their groove on.

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OCEANSIDE HARBOR PARADE OF LIGHTS December 9th

sandiego.org/explore/even ts/parades/oceanside-har bor-parade-of-lights.aspx

Fishing boats, sail boats, yachts, kayaks and dingys dressed up in holiday swag circle the Oceanside Harbor to enchant onlookers. There are plenty of Santas to be seen waving from boats in their holiday attire. There is a concrete pathway around the harbor that is perfect for viewing all of the lights. ❖

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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.

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HOLY DAYS AND HOLIDAYS

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BY

SCOTT HARRIS

Dec. 7: Pearl Harbor Day. One of the darker days in our long and storied history, but a day that galvanized a nation and eventually led to one of our greatest victories.

Dec. 12: Poinsettia Day. The plants are great and certainly are associated with the holidays, but the day is actually to honor Joel Roberts Poinsett, an American ambassador to Mexico who first brought the Mexican plants to the states, though sadly he died before he saw their popularity bloom.

Dec. 15: Bill of Rights Day. An opportunity to celebrate the original 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution. Our freedoms are outlined here, and while disagreements on interpreting those freedoms are ongoing, they are the foundation of the greatest country the world has ever known.

Dec. 22: Forefathers’ Day. Much like St. Nicholas Day has been eclipsed by Christmas, Forefathers’ Day, which originally honored the pilgrims, has faded into oblivion as Thanksgiving has taken over.

STARTING WITH THANKSGIVING

(my personal favorite holiday) and continuing through Christmas and then New Year’s, we are in the middle of the holiday season.

Right in this middle of the season we find Hanukkah or Chanuka, Hanukah, Hanuka, Khanukkah, etc. and Kwanzaa. And of course, beginning in what feels like July, retail stores put up holiday decorations and start playing Christmas carols at least 25 hours a day.

But lost in the excitement of better-known and traditional holidays are a few other December gems that, sadly, are often overlooked. I thought it would be fun to share a few while you still have time to modify your holiday gift-giving, travel and decoration plans.

Dec. 1: National Eat a Red Apple Day. A little-known national holiday, but a great way to start eating healthy again after Thanksgiving, or to get on your teacher’s good side. No word on whether or not green apples will ever have their day.

Dec. 2: National Fritters Day: While it seems as if every day is a good day for fried cake or dough filled with fruit or meat, we have picked one of the 365 days of the year to really focus on this tasty treat.

Dec. 5: Repeal Day. Celebrating the 21st Amendment, which ended Prohibition. Enough said.

Dec. 6: St. Nicholas Day. Nope, not Dec. 25., though Nicholas the Wonderworker’s generosity is said to have inspired the man now known as Santa Claus. St. Nicholas is the patron saint of sailors, archers, merchants and children (of course!), but also of repentant thieves and pawnbrokers. On Dec. 6, many celebrate his life with a huge feast.

While space restrictions won’t allow me to highlight all of the fascinating holidays that take place in the last month of the year, the names alone are fun enough: Bathtub Party Day, Letter Writing Day, National Brownie Day, National Noodle Ring Day, Ice Cream Day, National Fruitcake Day and — perhaps my favorite of the overlooked holidays — Bacon Day. So enjoy the “bigger” holidays. Celebrate them with family and friends. But perhaps consider adding one more tiny celebration to your already busy December. As for me? I’m looking forward to Dec. 30 when I will be introducing my loved ones to the holiday magic of National Bicarbonate of Soda Day! Happy holidays! ❖

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