Southern California Life_ Nov.Dec2015

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Boat

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tourS top walking

palm SpringS The Best of

rohm

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ACTRESS, AUTHOR, HUMANITARIAN

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SOUTHLAND GHOST TOWNS // TOP SEASONAL GETAWAYS // LONGINES MASTERS OF L.A. // HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE // BYE-BYE BLIMP // DISCOVER LOMPOC // RESTAURATEURS NEAL AND AMY FRASER // HADLEY’S FAMOUS FRUIT ORCHARD // DIY FAMILY FUN // STARS SHERRI SAUM AND TERI POLO

NOV/DEC2015

Location: Courtesy Camarillo Ranch House

CONTENTS ElisabEth ROhm Photographed by Benny Haddad

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“I don’t have a choice not to be a working mom, but I also realize there will come a time when Easton will be too busy for me and it’s time I’ll never get back.”

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Elisabeth Rohm The Busiest Accidental Actress

By ROBYN FLANS

Features + Profile

24 DISCOVER LOMPOC!

By RUTH BALLIN

SAUM 53 SHERRI AND TERI POLO, The Stars of ABC Family’s “The Fosters”

By ROBYN FLANS

FRUIT 78 HADLEY’S ORCHARD Desert Landmark and Home of the Famous Date Shakes

By JULIANNA KECK

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CONTENTS Departments 12 LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER/ EDITOR.IN.CHIEF 14 AFFAIRS TO REMEMBER The Longines Masters of Los Angeles

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15 AFFAIRS TO REMEMBER GR4CF at CBS Radford Studios

16 AFFAIRS TO REMEMBER

Southern California is home to dozens of g host towns that are just waiting to be explored.

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Safety Harbor Kids’ Polo Fundraiser

Vintage Venice Tour is one of the best ways to experience this iconic boardwalk.

17 AFFAIRS TO REMEMBER Fit 4 The Cause

18 ENCHANTING ESCAPES Away From Home for the Holidays

By LINDA LANG

28 SIGNATURES & LANDMARKS

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BYE-BYE BLIMP! The World’s Most Beloved Dirigible Gets a Makeover

Redbird Duck Breast

By ERIKA THOMAS

32 SO CAL CULTURE WHERE TO MAKE MERRY AND CELEBRATE THE SEASON So Cal’s Holiday Happenings

42 OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Palm Springs Today and Yesterday

By CHRISTOPHER KALIL

By LINDA LANG

46 BUBBLES & BREWS

By IMAAN JALALI

38 TRENDING TALK Stress-free Family Holiday Travel

By ESTHER C. BLEUEL, MA, MFT, MDR

40 FAB FINDS ‘Tis the Season to Change Your Beauty Routine

By NICOLE SCHMIDT

72 THE HOOD

Ghost Towns of the Southland

81 TO-DO-LIST

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in So Cal Style

Explore Southern California on a Walking Tour

By IMAAN JALALI

By CHRISTOPHER KALIL

56 THE GOURMAND Neal Fraser and Amy Knoll Fraser: Husband and Wife Shine as Culinary Team

86 FAMILY FUN MUST TRY DIY Hands-On fun for the Whole Family

By MADELINE ROSENE

By IMAAN JALALI

90 PERFECT PICKS 68 FIVE FAVES Holiday Boat Parades

Holiday Gift Guide

By JULIANNA KECK

By LINDA LANG

92 ON THE CALENDAR

ON THE COVER ElisabEth ROhm photography by benny haddad Hair: Miki Tractenberg Make-up: Kristina Goldberg Styling: Ilene’s Boutique, Westlake Village Location: Courtesy Camarillo Ranch House

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Avión Reserva 44

96 SOOO CAL Let it Snow

By SCOTT HARRIS

98 MY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Malibu Pier, California

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MONIQUE REIDY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

CREATIVE DIRECTOR DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY ARTS AND CULTURE EDITOR CALENDAR OF EVENTS EDITOR COMMUNICATION AND ADVICE EDITOR ENTERTAINMENT AND PROFILES EDITOR LANDMARKS AND HISTORICAL FEATURES EDITOR SPORTS & "SOOO CAL” EDITOR STYLE AND BEAUTY EDITOR TRAVEL EDITOR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER WEBSITE DESIGN | DIGITAL SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT INTERNS

Antoni Pham Benny Haddad Imaan Jalali Janine Goldberg Esther Bleuel Robyn Flans Erika Thomas Scott Harris Nicole Schmidt Linda Lang Julianna Keck, Christopher Kalil, Ruth Ballin, Madeline Rosene Erica Goddard, Tim Horton Jennifer Hurless Mike Kaiser, Karen Kaiser I www.searanchimages.com Marielle J. Stober, Julianna Keck

PUBLISHED BY

PUBLISHER | PRESIDENT SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, SALES AND DIGITAL PLATFORMS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS AND CIRCULATION ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES BOOKKEEPER CIRCULATION CONSULTANT LEGAL COUNSEL ADVISORY BOARD

SUBSCRIPTIONS EDITORIAL ADVERTISING

Monique Reidy Cheryl Dalton Janine Goldberg Martin Albornoz Vanessa Shapiro, Tonya McKenzie Connie Schuh Doug Bitto Edward Corey, Esq. Catherine Jayne, Ph.D, Steve Bardwil, Esq., Bill Bleuel, Ph.D, Patty Macmillan, Elena Nikitina, Doug Sylvester, Mary Wagstaff, Debbie Widerøe, Kelly Trevethan, Scott Harris, Esther Bleuel, MA, MFT, MDR Info@SoCalLifemag.com Editorial@SoCalLifemag.com Ads@SoCalLifemag.com

3625 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. Suite 232 | Westlake Village | CA 91362 | (805) 777-0080 | 805-370-8181 fax | www.SoCalLifeMag.com /SoCalLifeMag /socallifemag /user/socallifemag socallifemag

Southern California Life magazine is published by Elysian Media Group, LLC. ©2015 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.

November/December 2015 Printed in the USA.

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FROM THE PUBLISHER/

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T’S BEEN A yEAR SINCE WE PuBLISHED ouR FIRST ISSuE oF SouTHERN CALIFoRNIA LIFE MAGAzINE yET IT SEEMS LIKE THAT JuST HAPPENED LAST WEEK. THE PAST 12 MoNTHS FEEL LIKE THEy’VE ELAPSED IN DouBLE TIME AND A BACKWARD GLANCE EVoKES NoTHING BuT Joy AND GRATITuDE. ouR DISTRIBuTIoN HAS SNoWBALLED, ouR TEAM HAS INCREASED AND WE HAVE ExPERIENCED A yEAR FILLED WITH REMARKABLE PEoPLE AND AN ABuNDANCE oF PLEASANT SuRPRISES. At its infancy, we wondered how the general public would receive our magazine. Would anyone notice we exist? Would retailers consider us deserving of prominent newsstand placement? Would visitors and locals here in So Cal find our content worthy of a second look? To our delight, it appears that the answers to the aforementioned are a booming yES! We now look forward to our second year, which will surely consist of more hard work, growth and new adventures.

Coincidentally, our anniversary occurs during the holiday season, a time most people feel grateful and reflect on how they can bless loved ones -- sentiments we at So Cal Life

LEFT TO RIGHT:

Makeup Artist, Kristina Goldberg; Photographer, Benny Haddad; Cover Celebrity, Elisabeth Röhm; Hair Stylist, Miki Tractenberg; Beauty Editor, Nicole Schmidt; So Cal Life’s Director of Operations, Janine Goldberg and Camarillo Ranch House Publicist, Niki Richardson.

mag are clearly experiencing. This time of year also ushers in events and activities designed to encourage families and friends to celebrate together.

There is no shortage of opportunities to commemorate and enjoy festivities here in the Southland.

To promote celebration, this issue is packed with ideas and recommendations on how to spend the next two meaningful months. We highlight lavish affairs as well as casual pastimes that salute the season. We reveal places where champagne will generously flow on New year’s Eve as well as offer options for winter travel. A variety of entertainment choices are presented to help make your season brighter.

In addition to our holiday features, we also spotlight articles about the best of Southern California as we do in each issue. our cover piece fea-

tures the lovely Elisabeth Röhm, a remarkable, multi-gifted woman with a fascinating story. our team had a blast photographing this impassioned actress and health advocate at the historic Camarillo Ranch House in Ventura County.

I can’t sign off without expressing how much we value our readers and appreciate the support you’ve extended over the past year. And however you celebrate, everyone here at Southern California Life joins together to wish you a very happy Christmas and a merry holiday.

With thanks,

MONIQUE REIDY,

Publisher/Editor.in.Chief

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AFFAIRS TO REMEMBER • Marco Kutscher on Van Gogh during the Longines Grand Prix at the 2015 Longines Masters of Los Angeles.

Courtesy of Longines Masters

The Longines Masters of Los Angeles a Longines was proud to support the Longines Masters of Los Angeles as the Title Partner and Official Timekeeper. This event inaugurated the newly named Longines Masters, a series combining the very best sports level with the most elegant lifestyle on a unique stage. During the four days of the event, the guests had the chance to experience exceptional and exhilarating show jumping competitions while also enjoying various social events that celebrated the glamorous Los Angeles spirit.

The brand also took part on Saturday in the Pro-Am "Style & Competition" for Charity, a class aimed at raising money for charitable organizations in a glamorous atmosphere. Photography by Erica Goddard • Prize-giving ceremony of the Longines Grand Prix at the 2015 Longines Masters of Los Angeles.

Courtesy of Longines Masters

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GR4CF at CBS Radford Studios a Grace Rose is a 12-year old designer. Every year since she was born she has hosted a Fashion Show Fundraiser to benefit Cystic Fibrosis research.

Grace Rose was born with CF and is determined to find a cure, in style!

When she was 10 years old (for her 10th Annual event) she asked if she could design the collection herself. It was successfully auctioned off and afterwards people asked where they could purchase more clothes and continue to support the cause. We developed a website and began selling all year with a portion of sales going to CF. This year was the first GR4CF (Grace Rose for Cystic Fibrosis) event sponsored by Rosie G held in Los Angeles at CBS Radford Studios. Grace Rose showcased her entire Rosie G collection along

with Converse as the shoe sponsor & Geek Eyewear for glasses. She had celebrities from Disney, Nickelodeon, MTV & YouTube modeling and walking the “purple carpet.”

The picnic themed event had MC’s Traci Buccholz & Disney’s Landry Bender, Kym Gold made the show introduction, DJ Young1 spinning tunes, performances by several dancers and singers as well as wonderful food; Grilled Cheese truck, Noosa, Nary Dairy, Honest tea, Scoops ice cream truck & kids activities.

There was a silent auction & VIP gift bags sponsored

by Southern California Life magazine, Packit lunchbags & Essie polish.

Find more info at www.RosieGstyle.com or donate directly to her Foundation: Grace Rose Foundation.

Save the Date for next year’s event: 8/20/16

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AFFAIRS TO REMEMBER

• Grammy Winner Peter Asher, Safety Harbor Kids President Petrie Alexandra Williams, Caitlyn Jenner

Safety Harbor Kids’ Polo Fundraiser a September 17th, 2015 WPI Malibu nonprofit, Safety Harbor Kids, threw their 8th Annual Polo Fundraiser partnering with Tesla Motors, Malibu’s Vintage Grocers and Monrose Catering to raise funds for orphans, foster and homeless children.

The guests, including a surprise appearance by Caitlyn Jenner, enjoyed appetizers and a gourmet luncheon with wine and champagne as they watched the polo match with half-time entertainment by • Stephanie Abrams, Give Back PR, Safety Harbor Kids Founder John Williams, Safety Harbor Kids President Petrie Alexandra William.

By Jungle Jim

Grammy winner, Peter Asher and Dream World Cirque.

After lunch, guests • Partner Tesla Motors and 2015 Polo enjoyed the private VIP lounge courtesy of Kool Party Rents while they enjoyed refreshments provided by Dama Tequila, LongShot Coffee and Charles & Company Tea. Even a caviar tasting was provided to the VIP guests compliments of home fire protector, Sun Fire Defense.

High-end realtor Engel Volkers also sponsored the event with Fleur de Lis Organics, GiveBack PR, Roxx Vodka, Elevate My Brand, Valet of the Dolls, Eye Was Framed, Art Vault Unlimited, Garnet Security and CPG Media management.

• Founder John Williams Speaks

Next year’s tickets for the first Saturday after Labor Day are available at www.donatetoshk.org.

• Polo players with party in the backdrop.

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KEVIN MAK PHOTOGRAPHY

• NFL Champ Brady Poppinga, F4TC founder Cindy Rakowitz, FOX Sports Talk Radio broadcaster, Tomm Looney.

Fit 4 The Cause a Fit 4 The Cause raises money and awareness for local and national health needs by staging group exercise programs led by professional instructors. Their • Sourena Vasseghi and Lisa Roub philanthropic formula blends concentrated energy, music and community, providing a unique educational experience complementing the traditional gym workout. On September 19th, 2015 they held their first Annual Miracle of Movement Gala at the Sheraton Agoura Hills to honor individuals who have overcome obstacles.

• Fit 4 The Cause Board of Directors

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ENCHANTING ESCAPES

Holid

Away from Home for

Celebrating the holidays in the snow adds to the festivities.

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Photo by Dennis Bentson

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T'S THAT TIME AGAIN WHEN THE FESTIVE SPIRIT ENCouRAGES uS To START PLANNING FoR THE HoLIDAyS. FoR SoME, TRADITIoNS CoNTINuE IN THE HoME AS FAMILIES AND FRIENDS GATHER By DECoRATED TREES, FIREPLACES HuNG WITH SToCKINGS, STAIRWAyS DRAPED WITH FRAGRANT PINE, AND THE ARoMA oF A SLoWLy-RoASTING TuRKEy FILLING THE AIR.

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For those who prefer to celebrate away from home, the options in Southern California are limitless. Magnificent resorts celebrate in the sun while families of skiers, snowboarders and adventurers head for snow-covered cabins. A few resorts will even adorn your room with Christmas decorations including a tree and sparkling lights. Towns dress in their holiday best and offer visits with Santa, holiday plays, caroling, shopping, and feasting. The resorts also have lots of other activities including spas, golf, tennis, swimming, bicycling, and exploring sites nearby.

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HOLIDAY GETAWAYS

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CELEBRATING IN SANTA BARBARA

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Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara is known for its holiday events and dĂŠcor. The two-story Spanish colonial building, roofed in red tile with graceful archways and walkways winding through lush gardens, create a stunning setting. Its 181 guest rooms, 26 suites, restaurants and lounges are furnished with historic and custom handcrafted furnishings and art.

The festivities begin on November 28 with the holiday tree lighting in the lobby at 5:30 p.m. Hotel guests are invited to attend the ceremony complete with cookies, hot chocolate and sparkling wine. Tea tailored for the holidays is served the first three Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in December from 2 - 4 p.m. in the Bella Vista restaurant. Holiday dining includes a four-course dinner on Christmas Eve and a lavish Christmas Day buffet. For New Year's Eve, a large buffet features flavors from around the world while a New Year's party in the Ty Lounge has a live DJ, TV for viewing the ball drop, a confetti cannon and midnight champagne toast. www.fourseasons.com/santabarbara | 805-969-2261

ON THIS PAGE:

1. Rooms at the resort are furnished with historic and custom handcrafted furnishings and art. 2. Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara has long been noted for its festive holiday dĂŠcor. 3. The resort is ideally located for exploring the city, wineries and surrounding area. 4. The two-story Spanish colonial building is ideally located for exploring the American Riviera. 5. Festivities begin with the holiday tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. on November 28.

Courtesy of The Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara

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Courtesy of Gold Rush Resort

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Snow-covered mountains, the smell of fragrant pine, crisp air chilling your lungs, and aromas of Christmas fare seasoning the village air. These elements combine to set the mood as you explore Big Bear Lake Village's shops, restaurants, and surrounding winter sports locales. Most of the resorts’ lodges and hotels, ranging from rustic to modern, have easy access to the village. You can also choose from a wide variety of private accommodations varying from simple cabins to luxurious lakefront homes. Both Big Bear Snow Play and Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain have ski-resort quality snowmaking systems to ensure there is always snow for inner tube enthusiasts.

The village recently added heated sidewalks, seat walls, outdoor fire pits and other features for more comfort during winter events including the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus by sleigh on November 27. Friday through Sunday throughout December, the village will present a nightly old-fashioned Christmas gathering with strolling musicians, Victorianstyle carolers, children’s choirs, and of course, Santa Claus. In November, there are several performances of an original adaptation of "A Christmas Carol" and "Christmas with the Nelsons" starring Matthew and Gunnar Nelson, third generation of the Nelson family. For those staying through New Year's Day, you don't want to miss the Annual New Year's Eve Torchlight Parade when 250 skiers and snowboarders, with torches lit, descend snowcapped mountains creating a spectacular illumination not seen anywhere else in Southern California.

SWOOSHING AROUND BIG BEAR

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6. Kids of all ages can learn to ski during the holidays. 7. Santa’s Cabins, a.k.a. Gold Rush Resort Rentals, is one of the area's premier rental companies. 8. The Annual New Year's Eve Torchlight Parade with 250 skiers creates a spectacular illumination. 9. Celebrating the holidays in the snow adds to the festivities.

10. Accommodations range from hotels and lodges to cabins and lakeside homes.

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Courtesy of Big Bear Mountain Resorts

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Photo by Dan McKernan

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ENCHANTING ESCAPES

HOLIDAY GETAWAYS

DECKING YOUR VILLA IN NEWPORT

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11. In-room or patio holiday dining can be part of your family holiday. 12. Lots of holiday activities include Gingerbread House Decorating. 13. You can request Pelican Hill to decorate your villa or bungalow room.

14. Pelican Hill is a popular place for awayfrom-home family holidays. 15. Everyone enjoys holiday tea parties.

Courtesy of The Resort of Pelican Hill

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The award-winning Resort at Pelican Hill®, Newport Beach’s only Forbes Five-Star Resort, becomes a holiday wonderland for children of all ages. Featuring two to 4-bedroom luxury villas with magnificent coastal views, bungalow guest rooms and suites with private terraces, the resort is adorned with holiday lights, festive décor, and features a nice selection of holiday packages. You can even have your villa or bungalow decked out with everything from garlands, wreaths, and poinsettias to fresh pine trees, twinkling terrace lights and request personalized stockings and ornaments.

Events for kids include Gingerbread House Decorating on December 13 and 19, seasonal games and crafts December 19-31 and a New Year’s Eve Pajama Party at Camp Pelican. The Nutcracker Tea Holiday Party on December 20 features a Nutcracker ballet performance in the ballroom.

Festive fare includes the 12 Days of Dishes, Hanukkah feasts, Christmas Day Ballroom Brunch, Christmas and New Year's menus at all the restaurants. The New Year's Eve gala with live DJ includes cocktails, small bites, midnight balloon drop and complimentary prosecco toast. New Year's Day can begin with breakfast in bed or a special buffet of smoked salmon, shrimp and rib eye carving station from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.pelicanhill.com | 888-507-6427

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It was at the Hotel del Coronado, renowned for its holiday grandeur since 1888, where America awed at the sight of the first electrically-lit outdoor Christmas tree. In 2004, the resort introduced the first beachfront ice rink which has become a highly popular annual tradition for locals and guests. New this year is DELights, a holiday light spectacular transforming the Garden Patio into the North Pole with illuminated snowflakes, twinkle lights, 10-foot polar bears and trees. The video-mapping show will illuminate from historic balconies onto a 40’ metallic, faceted tree every 30 minutes from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Skating by the Sea on the outdoor ice rink runs November 26 to January 3. Guests and visitors can also choose from a variety of holiday activities including night bike tours through Coronado Island, cookie decorating, crafts for kids, Kidtopia Camp and holiday scavenger hunts.

Little ones can even be tucked in bed nightly by Christmas elves.

Christmas Eve features a lavish Victorian buffet with live musical entertainment while Christmas Day offers traditional holiday buffets.

New Year's Eve in the oceanfront ballroom will become "Havana Nights" complete with a five-course dinner, open bar and orchestra while the Crown Room transforms into "Club Crown" with a disco-chic bash of entertainment, dancing, dessert reception, midnight champagne toast and cash bar. â?–

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www.hoteldel.com | 619-435-6611

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16. The legendary Hotel Del has been celebrating the holidays since 1888. 17. Your furry family member is also welcome to celebrate with you at The Del. 18. Elves appear during the holidays to tuck in the kids. 19. Skating by the Sea on the outdoor ice rink runs November 26 to January 3. 20. Many accommodations have direct beach access.

Courtesy of Hotel del Coronado

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F E AT U R E

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LOMPOC! By ruth Ballin

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IFE IS ALL ABOUT THE DETOURS, ISN’T IT? AND SOMETIMES, WHEN YOU TRAVEL OFF THE BEATEN PATH, YOU’LL DISCOVER THE UNEXPECTED. NESTLED IN THE PICTURESQUE LOMPOC VALLEY, YOU’LL FIND THE MOST AUTHENTICALLY RESTORED MISSION IN CALIFORNIA, EXCEPTIONAL PINOTS, VINTAGE CHARM IN OLD TOWN, AND EXCITING OUTDOOR PURSUITS LIKE SKYDIVING, GOLF, AND CYCLING. SO WHY NOT TAKE A ROAD TRIP NORTH ON HIGHWAY 1, AND DISCOVER WHAT’S AROUND THE BEND IN LOMPOC?

La Purisima Mission

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TOUR & EXPLORE

D'Vine Wine Bar & Bistro

“ExCEPTIoNAL WEATHER yEAR-RouND, WITH PLENTy To SEE AND Do IN THE REGIoN, MAKES LoMPoC A PoPuLAR PLAyGRouND FoR ACTIVE TRAVELERS AND THRILL-SEEKERS.” Monarch Magic Mural

By far Lompoc’s top attraction is La Purisima Mission. It is California’s most fully restored and furnished mission, offering costumed docent tours and special events on weekends. Also a state park, the Mission is surrounded by 25 miles of hiking trails, offering overlooks of the mission grounds and Lompoc Valley.

In Old Town you’ll find an impressive collection of 35 Lompoc Murals, depicting scenes of Lompoc’s history and heritage. In old Town, you’ll also enjoy the Lompoc Museum, Cypress Gallery, and an interesting assortment of locallyowned specialty shops. Mural Maps and old Town Walking Tour brochures are available at the Lompoc Valley Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center, 111 South I Street.

TASTE WINES Lompoc winemakers are producing some of California’s best pinots and chardonnays. It’s the combination of ocean-influenced climate, eastwest hill orientation, and calcium-rich soil that blend together in Lompoc’s Sta. Rita Hills to produce outstanding cool-climate wines.

Start sipping in the Lompoc Wine Ghetto.

Clustered together in a modest industrial park setting, this collection of 20 boutique tasting rooms has become a mecca for artisan wine production. Come meet the winemakers, and enjoy the convenience of strolling from one spot to the next. Most Wine Ghetto tasting rooms are open Thursdays through Sundays.

For wine country ambience, take the Lompoc Wine Trail loop, along Highway 246 and Santa Rosa Road. you’ll find breathtaking H Lompoc Valley Vineyards & Hills

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Lompoc Flower Fields

vistas and estate wineries around every bend. Many of the vineyard tasting rooms are open daily.

PLAY OUTDOORS La Purisima Golf Course

“AFFoRDABLE HoTELS MAKE LoMPoC A PoPuLAR HoME BASE FoR THoSE WHo WISH To STAy A FEW DAyS AND ExPLoRE THE REGIoN.”

Exceptional weather year-round, with plenty to see and do in the region, makes Lompoc a popular playground for active travelers and thrill seekers.

With the highest tandem jump in Southern California,

Skydive Santa Barbara provides jumpers with a new perspective of the Central coast. From 18,000 feet down, you’ll see glorious ocean, valley, and vineyard views. Skydive Santa Barbara is open daily.

If you like to tee-off, you’ll want to try the 18-hole championship La Purisima Golf Course, designed by renowned architect Robert Muir Graves. Prefer cycling? Lompoc Valley is also a cycling destination so bring your bike to enjoy both flat and challenging country roads. For BMx enthusiasts, the brand-new River Bend Bike Park is a must try, with tracks for beginners and extreme jumps for the most daring.

Affordable hotels make Lompoc a popular home base for those who wish to stay a few days and explore the region.

Neighboring towns include the Danish Village of Solvang, historic Los Alamos, and artsy enclave Los olivos – all an easy, scenic 30 minute drive from Lompoc. ❖

For information on hotels and attractions, visit explorelompoc.com

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SIGNATURES & LANDMARKS

BYE-BYE BLIMP!

THE WORLD’S MOST BELOVED DIRIGIBLE GETS A MAKEOVER ✒ BY

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ERIKA THOMAS

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L model - A small "L" model blimp named Enterprise is the type of airship that flew over the Rose Bowl in 1955, kicking off the Goodyear blimp's longstanding tradition of flying over college football, other major sporting events and providing superior aerial coverage.

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Courtesy of The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company

HE GooDyEAR BLIMP, “SPIRIT oF AMERICA” RECENTLy EMBARKED oN ITS FAREWELL VoyAGE BACK To ITS WEST CoAST HoME oF CARSoN, CALIFoRNIA; BuT THE VENERABLE BLuE AND SILVER (AND SoMETIMES BLuE AND GoLD) AIRSHIP THAT’S BEEN SEEN FLoATING oVER EVERy LIVE EVENT IN SouTHERN CALIFoRNIA SINCE THE 1920S ISN’T GoNE FoR GooD. Goodyear Airship Public Relations Specialist, Priscilla Tasker, says, “We aren’t retiring the blimp altogether, we’re simply updating our fleet. The Spirit of America, which was part of our Gz-20 fleet, is being replaced by a larger, more efficient airship called

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the Wingfoot one. Technically it is a semi-rigid dirigible rather than a blimp, although you can’t tell the difference when you look at it.” And that’s not all. The new and improved airship is nearly 250 feet long — more than 50 feet larger than its predecessor — features state of the art avionic technology and an all-glass “gondola” — or cockpit.

It was in Akron, ohio in 1916, that the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company purchased more than 700 acres of lakefront property to build their factory on.

Though it was known as Fritch’s Lake at the time, it would be renamed “Wingfoot Lake” after the company’s official logo — a winged, airborne foot of the Roman god, Mercury. Goodyear would not only make hundreds of blimps (there were 300 built during World War II alone), over the years it would manufac-

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“GOODYEAR WAS THE FIRST COMPANY TO EVER USE A BLIMP FOR PUBLICITY AND TODAY, IT’S STILL THE ONLY ONE PEOPLE THINK OF.”

ture fighter planes for World War I and II. In addition to being the first company to produce an aviation tire specifically for the Wright Brothers, the company would also be the first to use its own product as a means of promotion, becoming the first-ever publicity blimp.

“We’ve had a presence in Southern California since 1925, which was the very beginning of our promotional program, so we’ve been here for a long, long time; and people have loved Goodyear since the beginning,” says Tasker, “There is a famous picture of Mary Pickford and Douglas

Fairbanks at Pickfair in the 1920s, receiving a brandnew set of Goodyear tires; so that celebrity appeal has been there from the start.

The Blimp was flying over sporting events as early as 1932, when one was present at the olympics, which were held here in Los Angeles.

Goodyear was the first to innovate such a thing. That same 1932 olympics also happened to be the very first live radio broadcast of a sporting event, which was even more of a milestone.”

The Blimp would make media history again in 1955, when it made its first televised appearance providing aerial coverage at the Rose

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1. Goodyear employees and family members visit Spirit of Innovation (N4A) during its stop at the Goodyear Proving Grounds in San Angelo, Texas. Spirit of Innovation is the last GZ-20 model blimp in the Goodyear airship fleet and the world. It will arrive at the Carson, California base to replace Spirit of America in September 2015 while a new, state-of-the-art airship is built in Akron, Ohio. 2.

GZ-20 - Operated from 1969 through today, making it the longest-operated model at 46 years; it has a similar look as the GZ-19 but is a little bigger, giving it a sleeker look. Spirit of Innovation is the last GZ-20 model blimp left in the world. 3. GZ-19 Model type used from 1959 through 1978 in Florida (and for a shorter period of time in California).

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Courtesy of The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company

Bowl football game on New year’s Day. “That first televised aerial coverage was 60 years ago. Today, you can’t attend a sporting event — or any event — without seeing the presence of the Blimp; whether it be at a college sporting event, the Rose Parade or the Academy Awards,” she says.

For nearly a century, the world’s most famous, “lighter-than-air” dirigible has been a part of Southern California college and professional sporting events, as well as the world’s most

glamorous awards show. It’s because of this that Tasker says, “People just identify with the Goodyear Blimp. you really can’t think of an event without one of our airships coming to mind.

The Blimp is not only an American icon, it’s a tradition. When people see it, they know something big is going on. People marvel at the aircraft. They love to see it. Goodyear was the first company to ever use a blimp for publicity and today, it’s still the only one people think of.” ❖

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WHERE TO MAKE MERRY AND CELEBRATE THE SEASON So Cal’S holiday happeningS ✒ BY

IMAAN JALALI

DISCOVER

o MATTER youR FAITH oR CREED, THE HoLIDAyS oFFER A FuN AND LIVELy WAy To SPEND TIME WITH FAMILy MEMBERS, FRIENDS, AND LoVED oNES. THE WINTER HoLIDAyS ARE, AFTER ALL, ABouT LETTING Go A BIT AND TAKING A RESPITE FRoM THE BuRDENSoME RESPoNSIBILITIES THAT NAG uS oN A DAILy BASIS. Bedazzling vivid lights, joyful concerts, exhibits, processions, performances, and ice skating for the well-versed and inexperienced, are some of many pleasures to be reveled in this holiday season.

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Hollywood Parade

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Chill Ice Kingdom at the Queen Mary w During most days between November 20th and January 10th, the Queen Mary in Long Beach will once again be home to a gargantuan dome-like structure called the “Ice Kingdom.” It is quite spacious and immersive — comprised of 13,000 square feet, 2.5 stories tall, and 2 million pounds of rock solid ice — with awesome times for the whole family in the form of ice-tubing (sledding inside inflatable tubes), ice skating, and live caroling to enrich your heart. www.queenmary.com/ events/chill

Newport Boat Parade w From December 16-20, starting at 6:30 p.m., the 107th annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, which has been voted

AVIKINGINLA.COM

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1 as a prime holiday attraction by the New York Times, will see a voluminous number of vessels — teaming with LEDs, decorations, and dancers — sail through the 14-mile harbor stretch.

Many of these vessels are large and lavish enough to be characterized as yachts, with many of the owners spending as much as $50,000 to spruce and shore them up for the parade. www.christmasboat parade.com

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ICE at Santa Monica w From November 1 January 18, the corner of 5th St. and Arizona Ave. will be transformed to a holiday haven for those who want to lace up their ice skates and glide on the 8,000 square feet of ice, seamlessly or with great difficulty. The experience offers the chance to make artsy crafts, delight in free food, and watch performances by elite skaters. Admission is $15, which includes your skate rental. www.downtownsm. com/ice

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Hollywood Christmas Parade

Hanukkah at Universal Citywalk w The free 14th annual concert on December 21st from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., will pep the spirit and perk the soul with not only wonderful music, but also a grandiose meno-

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w On November 29th at 5:00 p.m., Hollywood's biggest players and moguls will come out of the woodwork to abide the yuletide with a procession which will be broadcast live on KTLA and the Hallmark Channel. The parade, benefitting “Toys for Tots,� will start on Hollywood Boulevard at Orange before making its way to Sunset Boulevard and then back again.

Last year, the Grand Marshall was music legend Stevie Wonder and also included artists Chris Daughtry and LeAnn Rimes. This year promises to excite and compel with the same holiday fervor, and will be well worth the ticket price. www.thehollywood christmasparade.org

rah lighting ceremony that will impress. Better yet, the camaraderie of the occasion, among friends or strangers, will serve as a reminder that we're all in it together. www.facebook.com/ ChanukahCityWalk www.citywalkholly wood.com

KIIS FM Jingle Ball w There aren't many concerts that are compendiums of the most popular musical acts and artists of the contemporary era. The KIIS FM Jingle Ball, hosted by popular radio station 102.7 FM, has been a coveted ticket in Los Angeles for many years.

With artists like Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande and Iggy Azalea, who headlined last year's extravaganza,

it's not difficult to see why hopeful attendees incessantly refresh ticketmaster.com with the hopes of landing a seat at the big event. www.kiisfm.com

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COURTESY OF DISNEY

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

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Deck the Hall with L.A. Philharmonic w Starting December 17th, with select dates up until New Year's Eve, the Walt Disney Concert Hall will be “decking the hall” melodiously with an array of artists, including Natalie Cole, choirs, and renowned orchestras.

The concert series will infuse attendees with a joy for living, as the soothing and dulcet sounds precisely accentuate the happi-

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Disney Holiday on Ice w This fabled holiday staple since 2010 literally brings the pageantry and spectacular nature

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Hanukkah Celebration at the Sherman Oaks Galleria w On Monday, December 6th at 6 p.m., the Galleria will host the lighting of the menorah in Fountain Plaza. The multidecade-and-running event, which is also free, will be festive and full of priceless family time.

Donuts and potato latkes will be served, the chorus of the Chabad Hebrew School will perform, and venerable Rabbi Menachem Lipskier will be on hand to light the menorah. www.shermanoaks galleria.com. ❖

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of Disney's most recognized and lionized characters to the ice. The larger-than-life princes and princesses of the Disney pantheon, notably those of “Frozen,” regale children and adults alike at the Staples Center in Los Angeles between December 9-14. www.disneyonice.com

est time of the year.

Certainly, it makes sense to complement the tradition of the holidays with classical music borne out of a similarly celebrated heritage. www.laphil.com (323) 850-2000

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Stress-free Family Holiday Travel WITH THE HoLIDAy SEASoN uPoN uS, WE THINK ABouT FAMILy, FuN, TASTy FooD AND … oKAy, PRESENTS. BuT THE SEASoN oFTEN BRINGS WITH IT STRESS AND ANxIETy FoR MANy, THE PRIMARy SouRCE oF WHICH IS FAMILy oBLIGATIoNS, RELATIoNSHIPS AND REuNIoNS. IF THIS IS TRuE FoR you …

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ESTHER C. BLEUEL, MA, MFT, MDR

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the specific 1 Identify cause of the anxiety.

It may be unhappy memories, toxic relatives, life changes or monotonous repetition.

The key is to manage 2 your expectations, activities, health and choices. If you must deal with certain challenging people, make a pro and con list to help you decide how to behave. If you choose to be a part of the festivities, do your best to be agreeable and flexible.

Take time to imagine 3 what your travel and visit would look like if all went well and met your expectations. Discuss this with your travel companions and your trip will be more fun when you look forward to, and create, an enjoyable experience.

To help avoid the general trials and tribulations of travel today, here are some practical tips.

• Leave early, allow extra time for everything and expect glitches.

• Be sure to pack your sense of humor and big container of patience. Put a smile on your face and stay positive.

• If possible, plan to fly on less busy days.

Either depart early or consider flying on

“DON’T RELY SOLELY ON CELL PHONES. DEVELOP AN ALTERNATIVE PLAN FOR HOW TO MEET AT A DESTINATION OR AIRPORT IN CASE OF MISSED CONNECTIONS.”

the actual holiday, as they tend to be the cheapest days. Also, early morning flights are delayed less often than later ones.

• Mail gifts in advance.

This can save you money on luggage fees when flying and provide extra space in your car. If you must carry gifts, leave them unwrapped for security checking.

• Pack light and travel with only carry-on luggage if possible.

Plan ahead for the security line -- documents handy, no belts, slip-on shoes, no hats or jackets if possible.

• Carry essential documents and contact information with you in case you get separated from your luggage. Personal identification, insurance cards, important phone numbers and addresses should be accessible. Be sure to have the appropriate documents for international travel.

• Anticipate connection snafus. Don’t rely solely on cell phones. Develop an alternative plan for how to meet at a destination or airport in case of missed connections.

• Prepare for delays.

Take medications, snacks (protein, healthy or nonsticky), earphones and extra batteries for electronic devices. Keep these essentials accessible in a carry-on bag or in your car.

• Check your car before a road trip -brakes, battery, fluids and tire pressure.

Pack a first-aid kit, flashlight, blankets, flares and jumper cables.

Remember to focus on the opportunities for gratitude and celebration that make the holidays meaningful and joyful.

I wish you happy holidays and safe travel. ❖

Esther C. Bleuel, MA, MFT, MDR Coaching & training to empower people to prevent & resolve conflict www.ToughTalkCoach.com

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‘TIS THE SEASON TO CHANGE YOUR BEAUTY ROUTINE

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THERE ARE SO MANY PRODUCTS ON THE MARKET THAT CLAIM TO REPAIR, REFRESH AND REJUVENATE YOUR SKIN. HOW DO YOU KNOW WHICH ONES TO CHOOSE? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN YOUR SCL MAGAZINE EDITORS WHO HAVE SPENT COUNTLESS HOURS HUNTING FOR THE PERFECT PRODUCTS (IT’S A DIRTY JOB BUT SOMEBODY’S GOTTA DO IT)! WITH THE HOLIDAYS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER, NOW IS THE BEST TIME TO START PAMPERING YOURSELF WITH PRODUCTS THAT ARE WINTER-WORTHY. CHECK OUT THESE TOP PICKS AND GET READY TO HAVE THAT FLAWLESS, PICTURE-PERFECT LOOK THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!

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1. Essio Aromatherapy Diffuser For The Shower turns your regular shower into a spa-like experience at home. Choose from a variety of essential oil blends. 2. There is so much to love about The Relish Collection Candles by Paddywax. These beautiful candles and diffusers are long-lasting, aromatic and make an impressive holiday gift. We haven’t tried one we didn’t absolutely love! 3. The Perfect Blowout Kit by Drybar supplies you with all you need to get a salon-perfect blowout anytime. Makes a great holiday gift too! 4. Sun protection is THE #1 anti-aging product on the market. ViDerm SPF 51 feels like a lotion but has zinc oxide UVA and UVB protection and can be worn under your makeup. 5. ScarAway Scar Repair Gel works! This magical little tube of silicone gel repairs and prevents abnormal scarring. 6. Get a beautiful glow for this holiday season with the Skin Refining and Brightening Mask by The Jojoba Company. This mask can be used weekly to reduce the appearance of pigmentation and even out skin tones. 7. Temporary Tattoos by Kitsch glam up any outfit! Perfect for daily wear or a holiday party, these temporary tattoos have become the fashion craze in Southern California. 8. Macadamia Professional Weightless Moisture Dry Oil is an ultra-nourishing formula that creates weightless shine and smoothes pesky fly-aways. 9. Indulge in the new Fragrance by Wildfox. Absinthe mist, honeysuckle, jasmine essence, captive musk, apricot blush and incense make up this deliciously sultry and sweet fragrance.

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OFF THE BEATEN PATH

COURTESY OF JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

GHOST TOWNS OF THE SOUTHLAND

SoMETIMES THE MoST DESoLATE PLACES HoLD THE MoST LIFE. FoR THoSE SEEKING AN ExCITING, ouTSIDE-THE-BouNDS TRIP INTo HISToRy, LooK No FuRTHER THAN youR oWN BACKyARD. SouTHERN CALIFoRNIA IS HoME To DozENS oF GHoST ToWNS THAT ARE JuST WAITING To BE ExPLoRED. WHETHER you ARE A HISToRy BuFF, A THRILL SEEKER, oR ARE JuST LooKING FoR AN ALTERNATIVE TyPE oF VACATIoN, THE GHoST ToWNS oF SouTHERN CALIFoRNIA ARE JuST WHAT you ARE LooKING FoR.

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CHRISTOPHER KALIL

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SAN DIEGO

> Julian Historic Gold Mining Town

• Take a step back in time and visit Julian, a historic gold mining town located about an hour east of San Diego.

Julian’s rich history is rooted in the gold rush of the 1870’s.

Visitors to this charming mountain town can experience early Julian through the guided Eagle and High Peak mining tours or by stopping at the Pioneer Museum. For those with a more modern taste, there are plenty of shops,

restaurants, and wine tastings to experience.

On September 26 and 27, Julian hosts the locally renowned Apple Days festival, bringing in around 5,000 visitors each year. Families can enjoy food, games, music, and, of course, Julian’s famed apple pie. With year-round music festivals, plenty of cozy bed and breakfasts, and plenty of activities for people of all ages, this former ghost town is a must-visit.

SAN BERNARDINO

> Calico

Silver Rush Ghost Town

• Proclaimed by

former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to be California’s Silver Rush Ghost Town, Calico stands as one of the oldest parts of the San Bernardino County Regional Parks. Founded in 1881 during California’s silver strike, Calico was home to 500 mines that produced more than $20 million in silver ore. The beautiful desert environment is now host to visitors from around the world.

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Some of Calico’s historic attractions include a visit to the Lucy Lane Museum, a ride on the Calico Odessa Railroad, or for the adventurous, a frightening trip through the Calico Ghost Tours. If you’re looking to experience the Calico outdoors, the town offers a variety of camping sites, mountain biking trails, and ATV tracks.

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OFF THE BEATEN PATH

GHOST TOWNS

LOS ANGELES

> Mentryville Oil-Drilling Town

• Thirty-five miles

north of Los Angeles sits the town of Mentryville, the original home of California’s first commercially viable oil well. Founded in the 1870’s as an oildrilling town, it became a ghost town as the oil dried up in 1962. Now an 851-acre State park, Mentryville offers plenty for visitors to explore.

Mentryville has become a popular

shooting location for many films and television shows, such as “The Color Purple,” “The XFiles,” and “The ATeam.” There is a wealth of activities for those off-set to take part in as well.

From hiking to biking to horseback riding, those seeking to lose themselves in nature will find a plethora of action to enjoy.

RIVERSIDE

> Dos Palmas Watering Hole

• Dos Palmas, a beautiful oasis in Riverside County, was once a watering hole for Native Americans passing across the Colorado Desert. In 1862, Dos Palmas became a camp for travelers along the Bradshaw and Yuma roads on the way to La Paz. The spring is now protected as part of the 14,000 acre Dos Palmas Reserve.

Located 10 miles southeast of Mecca, Dos Palmas is the

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perfect place to get close to the amazing wildlife of Southern California. While the summers in Dos Palmas are hot, the reserve is open to visit year-round.

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Dos Palmas Preserve Dos Palmas spring

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LONE PINE

> Manzanar War Relocation Center

• Located nine

miles north of Lone Pine, the town of Manzanar is bursting at the seams with history.

Originally a post office and shipping point in the early 1900’s, Manzanar became infamous during the 1940’s as the location for the Manzanar Japanese American internment camp during World War II. The internment camp closed in 1945, and

since 1969, Manzanar has been the final destination of the Manzanar Pilgrimage, an annual gathering of thousands of visitors in remembrance of the incarceration. A visit to Manzanar is guaranteed to be an emotional experience and stands as a monument to reflection on the past.

SAN BERNARDINO

> Red Mountain Mining Town

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• Red Mountain, formerly known as Osdick, is located 32 miles southwest of Trona in San Bernardino County. The town was founded in the early 1900’s during a large mining boom in the nearby town of Randsburg. By 1929, the town had acquired a name for itself as not only the home to a notable silver mine, but also the home to a variety of vices. Red Mountain was known as a place to get a drink during the prohibition

era and often drew an unsavory crowd.

Present-day Red Mountain boasts a population of only around 100 people. While many of the original structures are still standing, none of them are operational.

However, this makes Red Mountain an extremely interesting ghost town to explore and those seeking adventure and discovery are sure to find it here. ❖

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BUBBLES & BREWS

CELEBRATING NEW EVE IN SO CAL

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COURTESY OF ANDAZ SAN DIEGO

NEW YEAR

YEAR’S STYLE ✒ BY

IMAAN JALALI

HE yEAR 2016 IS JuST ARouND THE CoRNER, SMILING AND WAVING, WITH THE PRoMISE oF ENDuRING HoPES AND NEW BEGINNINGS. But before January 1st arrives, a toast or two must be made with champagne glass in hand, amid a sea of music, people, and joyous celebration. Before the clock strikes 12:00 a.m., 2015 should be commemorated in style on New year's Eve. Arguably, there is no better region in the united States than Southern California where one can dance, party, and hang out at several establishments that will serve up the drinks and grant a forum of fun for revelers. Even better is the fact that admission into these places won't cost you more than $150 per person.

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Egyptian Theater and Courtyard

At Ivar and Hollywood Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA clubzone.com/events/nyeblock-party-2016

Cleopatra's New Year's Eve Ball 6712 Hollywood Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA (323) 461-2020 egyptiantheatre.com/egyptian/egypt.htm

x Perhaps there is no better deal than the block party option which, for general admission starting at $30, offers access to four nightlife spots along one block, including the Hemingway’s Lounge, the Cosmo Club as well as the Attic and Rose Rooms. For an extra $45, or $75 overall, one will have his or her pick of open bar drinks from 9 p.m. until 2 a.m.

x With tickets starting at $59,

guests will be treated to an open bar, two dance floors, four deejays, and a setting rife with Cleopatras, Pharaohs, and Queens. There will also be a riveting light show, a countdown on a projection wall, and non-stop dancing from 9 a.m. until 2 a.m. For all the

amenities offered, including an Egyptian theme that never gets old, this ball is a bargain for the price.

2 SAGEBRUSH CANTINA

NYE Los Angeles Block Party

Sagebrush Cantina 23527 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas, CA (818) 222-6062 sagebrushcantina.com x Dinner, drinks, prizes, and

dancing are all part of the package here and for roughly $70 per person. It won't get as unruly here as it does in some notorious clubs as it offers a more down-home, local feel of Calabasas, which is mostly

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Egyptian theater and Courtyard, los angeles 2. sagebrush Cantina, Calabasas

undisturbed despite its celebrity presence.

The Queen Mary 1126 Queens Hwy. Long Beach, CA (877) 342-0738 tickets.queenmary.com x

For $99, you can get on board a ship, including all of its decks, bars, and salons. Not to mention, there will be a variety of food, several live bands on hand, and a panoramic view of the fireworks that will light up the Long Beach night sky.

3. the Queen mary, long beach

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LIVE

Harlowe Bar

San Pedro Yacht Party

7321 Santa Monica Blvd.

West Hollywood, CA (323) 876-5839 harlowebar.com

“The Majestic” Yacht 141 E. 22nd Street San Pedro, CA (714) 485-6543 nyeyachtparties.com

x If you want an excuse to get dressed to the nines, look no further than this prestigious bar. It is scheduled to offer attendees, who pay the $95 fee, an open bar between 8:00 p.m. and midnight in addition to hors d'oeuvres aplenty and, of course, lots of hip-moving and torso-turning to the rhythm of the beat!

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x For those who board this

“Majestic” vessel, which can hold up to 400 people at one time, there will be three types of music offered on three separate levels. On the first will be dance/house; on the second, hip-hop; and on the third, a slower tempo, for couples. The cost is a bit pricey starting at

$140, but all of the festivities transpire during a pleasurable 4-hour cruise, which advertises not only an open bar, but an appetizer buffet court as well.

Wildcat Lounge 15 W. Ortega St. Santa Barbara, CA (805) 962-7970 wildcatlounge.com x With general admission

prices in the $35 to $45 range, this is another can't-miss celebration by virtue of all of the good times you'll be having for the relatively paltry cost.

Included are party favors galore, a champagne toast at midnight, three balloon drops, and more dancing. Retire for the night in the area and spend your first waking minutes of 2016 at one of Santa Barbara's brilliant beaches.

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Wildcat lounge, santa barbara

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5. harlowe bar, West hollywood

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6. san Pedro Yacht Party, san Pedro 7. hard Rock hotel, san Diego

Hard Rock Hotel San Diego NOCTURNALSD.COM

207 5th Ave. San Diego, CA (619) 702-3000 hardrockhotelsd.com/newye ars-eve.htm

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x The Hard Rock in itself is

CALIFORNIANIGHTLIFE.COM

iconic, but combined with the city of San Diego it becomes a positively irresistible choice.

Can you imagine three floors, five dancing venues, and more than 20 disc jockeys? The champagne will be flowing here, smiles will abound, and high-fives will go around

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8. andaz, san Diego

EXQUISITEWEDDINGSMAGAZINE.COM

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Ronald Reagan Foundation/library, simi Valley

8 when the new year becomes a reality. Surprisingly, the cost is only between $75-100, depending upon the package you choose.

Andaz San Diego 600 F Street San Diego, CA (619) 849-1234 andaznye.com x Sporting a sleek look that is

equal parts modern and throwback, the Andaz Hotel promises to once again impress with a superb DJ lineup inside four rooms over three floors. The party will extend to the rooftop as well where the champagne will be poppin' and poured lavishly.

Tickets will be in the $100 range, but those who purchase them earlier may qualify for “early bird” specials as low as $40.

Coast. It is still relevant today, having hosted the GOP National Debate on September 16th. But what you likely didn't know is that for a few years running now, it has been a prime spot to celebrate the new year. Individuals hoping to attend will get to celebrate inside Air Force One Pavilion where they will savor a gourmet dinner/dessert, and bask in streamers as a live band covers a multitude of musical genres. Fare is around $150 per person. ❖

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Ronald Reagan Foundation/Library 40 Presidential Dr. Simi Valley, CA (805) 522-2977 reaganfoundation.org/events VCREPORTER.COM

x Regardless of political affili-

ation, the Reagan Presidential Library is one of the more important sites on the West

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COURTESY OF ABC FAMILY/ANDREW ECCLES

SHERRI SAUM AND TERI POLO,

the stars of ABC Family’s “The Fosters” will be recognized as the Wise and Wonderful Women at Las Posas Country Club on November 9th at the 7th annual Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County’s Bags, Bling & Bubbly event. ✒ BY

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Sherri Saum and Teri Polo

Because the ABC Family show “The Fosters” sheds light on service to children in foster care being raised by two moms in a multi-ethnic family, Saum and Polo are perfect as representatives at the champagne luncheon.

For Saum, gaining wisdom was not an easy task. Her own wisdom came mostly from making mistakes.

She recalls being in relationships where she was “definitely not the best version of myself,” she admits. “I know I hurt people. Lots of times we say we would never want to go back and we have no regrets, but in the darkest dark of the night when I think about my life, it haunts me. I feel like I’m a really loving person and I would never conceive of giving someone I’m in a relationship with, less than the best and the most respect and the most love I could possibly give.”

She feels proud to say, even though it has been painful along the way, she has learned from the mistakes.

“It’s huge to work on a show that means so much to so many people which is causing a wave to this generation to be proud of themselves and their orientation.”

During those painful times, she traveled – another vehicle through which she has found wisdom. She tried to escape but learned the lesson that “it travels with you. you can’t run from it,” says Saum.

Through her travels to Spain as an exchange student while at ohio State, though, she did experience a new quality of a slowerpaced “smell the roses” kind of life, which she says has made a lasting impression to this day.

Travels have continued to change her life.

She has been to Japan, Israel, Egypt, Brazil and throughout Europe, and took her mother to Iceland a few years ago. As an actor she traveled with the uSo, even to Saudi Arabia right after 911.

Although she doesn’t remember exactly when she decided to venture into acting, she

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does remember being impacted by watching the movie “Annie” at around age 7.

“I was so exhilarated by that adventure,” she remembers. “And wanting to be a part of that somehow. I’ve always been a very introverted and shy person, but I have a supercharged imagination and sense of play,” she says. “I’ve always had a desire to pretend. I love to read.

It’s another way to wisdom because you have to empathize with a character whose choices you might not necessarily agree with in real life.”

Her big break came at about 19-years-old when she started modeling in New york and had the opportunity to audition for the Aaron Spelling soap, “Sunset Beach.”

“I went from New york to L.A. and never looked back,” Saum says.

Although it had some outlandish story lines, they were some of the best times of her life and she made some life-long friends.

She also loved working with Gabriel Byrne on HBo’s “In Treatment,” and with Denis Leary in the Fx series “Rescue Me.” “The Fosters,” Saum says, has given so much to so many, including herself. She feels she is making a difference.

“It’s huge to work on a show that means so much to so many people which is causing a wave to this generation to be proud of themselves and their orientation. I’d never been on social media before, but daily I hear on Twitter, ‘Thank you, I was able to talk to my mom for the first time...’ It means the world to me because I love kids,” says Saum, who had twin sons -- John Ruben and Michael Luis -- in 2014 with husband Kamar de los Reyes.

Saum adores and looks up to her co-star as very wise.

“Teri is one of the most extraordinary women I’ve ever known,” Saum says. “She’s really fearless and really bold. I know she’s had a hell of a journey to get to that point. you never have to wonder what she is thinking. She communicates her hurts, her fears, her joys without fear. I admire that a lot because I keep a lot to myself and close to the vest. She’s a great example for her kids and I look a lot to her for advice in this crazy business and juggling everything as a mom.” ❖

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COURTESY OF ABC FAMILY/ANDREW ECCLES

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THE GOURMAND

NEAL FRASER AND AMY KNOLL FRASER HUSBAND AND WIFE SHINE AS CULINARY TEAM ✒ BY

IMAAN JALALI

Neal Fraser AND Amy Knoll Fraser ARE THE EPIToME oF A CouPLE THAT ExCELS BoTH PERSoNALLy AND PRoFESSIoNALLy. THEIR RESTAuRANT BuSINESS EMPIRE CAN BE DESCRIBED AS FooD THAT IS BoTH CoMFoRTING AND INSPIRING, EVEN MoRE So DuRING THE HoLIDAyS. oNE ESTABLISHMENT THEy CooWN AND RuN IS REDBIRD, A MoDERN AMERICAN RESTAuRANT, ANoTHER IS BLD, SPECIALIzING IN BREAKFAST, LuNCH, AND DINNER (HENCE THE ACRoNyM). There is also ICDC (ice cream, donuts, coffee), and finally Vibiana, which is a fully transformed cathedral that now acts as a wedding/performing arts venue with catering options.

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1. Vibiana. 2. BLD (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. 3.

Redbird Dining Interior. 4. Redbird Duck Breast.

5. Neal Fraser and Amy Knoll Fraser.

Courtesy of Neal and Amy Fraser

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THE GOURMAND NEAL AND AMY FRASER

The husband and wife team initially met at Rix restaurant in Santa Monica in 1997.

Neal was one of the chefs in command and Amy was the grille assistant. From then on it was a match made in the kitchen and beyond. Neal was on his way to tempering his wares as a culinary artist, and Amy, who had basically fallen into the business by accident, were two ingredients in search of one another in what you might call a prelude to an eventual triumph.

The reason for their successful collaboration is simple. Neal, who is admittedly a little more on the spontaneous side, perfectly complements Amy, who is more practical.

“We're both artistic, but in different ways. Amy can separate herself in different situations, whereas I feel my way through the moment. We know our roles and carry them out well,” says Neal.

Both are also wary of the business side of being restaurateurs, which often takes precedence over preoccupation with just food.

Granted, what is put on the plate is exceedingly important; however, the whole picture involves every little detail in an intricate paradigm that determines long-term success. one aspect of this is ensuring that their

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staff listen to the customers “because going out to dinner is an experience that is perhaps no different than seeing your favorite baseball team,” states Neal matter-of-factly.

This big picture thinking has worked wonders for the Frasers whose four businesses keep winning repeat business with customers who enjoy the menu items as much as they do because the seamless service allows them to. Consequently, it is agreeable personnel employed by the Frasers that make the food that much tastier. “our customers let us know how we're doing through social media. We're trying to be smart and calculated. We have to realize where we are, what we're doing, and try to appease the people who are there,” elaborates Neal.

Furthermore, the change in demographics in the sphere of Los Angeles fine dining has been part of the welcomed challenge for the Frasers who recognize that it's on them to make an impression to diners of all ethnicities, in particular those who would have otherwise been recurrently loyal to a certain nationality of food.

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6. Redbird Interior.

7. Redbird Whole Hog. 8. Redbird Squash. 9. Redbird Dining. 10. Redbird Monte Carlo.

Courtesy of Neal and Amy Fraser

“Our customers let us know how we're doing through social media. We're trying to be smart and calculated. We have to realize where we are, what we're doing, and try to appease the people who are there.”

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NEAL AND AMY FRASER

“L.A. has seen an expansion in the demographics, and so appealing to the same group of people over and over is a thing of the past. our huge melting pot, which is represented by Koreans, South Americans, Chinese, Japanese, Mexicans, and so on, no longer stick to just what they like. Everyone is now branching out their food tastes and becoming more discerning,” explains Neal.

Taste and style are obviously paramount to Neal and Amy. Redbird, for one, is decorated in the way of celebratory Americana with its placidly traditional setting known for its deer and game options. Partridge and pheasant selections are added during the holidays. ICDC, on the other hand, sports a modern feel of outstanding but colorful simplicity. It also thrives because “not many places serve coffee, donuts, and ice cream in the same spot,” Neal points out.

RECIPE

REDBIRD POSOLE

ICDC (Ice Cream, Donuts, Coffee)

BLD is an extension of the contemporary presentation motif, albeit in monochromatic fashion. “It's known for brunch.

We're not reinventing the wheel there.

We've got great pancakes, shakes and, ultimately, simpler food but at a higher level,” Neal confidently opines.

As a testament to the combined passion for their businesses, the Frasers, who have invested themselves thoroughly and without hesitation in them, stand by their own favorite dishes at their respective restaurants. It also happens that their choices reflect the customer-friendly vastness of the menus.

At Redbird, for instance, Amy prefers the mussels as well as the grilled pork chop glazed in fish sauce.

For Neal, the snapper tops the charts. At BLD, Amy prefers the lentil salad, while Neal goes for meatier

choices like the trout with quinoa and pasta with braised beef tongue and tomato sauce. At ICDC, Amy usually orders the gluten-free donut, in contrast to Neal who splurges on the mapleglazed donut or chocolate sorbet.

Amy and Neal have succeeded largely because they have not only given to their customers, they have given to each other.

Detail-oriented Amy is more inclined to zero in on the business, and Neal, who takes pride in both his creative flair and roots as a blue-collared line cook, have created a perfect working balance. By melding their complementary forces of culinary will in the workplace, the Frasers have found a way to make a living and spend precious time with one another. ❖

To make ahead of time: • 1 lb. guajillo chilies, seeded and stemmed • 1 lb. ancho chilies, seeded and stemmed • Take the chilies and simmer till soft. Puree in blender. Cool.

Put in 1-quart deli cups and reserve till needed in the freezer

• • • • • • • • • •

Make 5 gallons of soup: 2 pork shoulders 10 garlic cloves 4 guajillo chilis, whole 4 ancho chilis whole 3 onions 2 gallons chicken stock 2 oz cumin 2 oz coriander 2 oz salt 1 oz pepper Rub pork shoulder with salt and spices. Put in pan. Add the rest of the ingredients. Cover with plastic wrap and foil. Bake in 300degree oven for 3 hours. Cool overnight in liquid. The next day, remove and dice shoulder.

Strain braising liquid and use for the posole base.

• • • • • • •

• • • •

For the posole: 5 yellow onions, diced 20 garlic cloves minced 2 oz cumin 2 oz coriander 4 oz kosher salt 3 cans hominy 1 can plum tomatoes, pureed 2 gallons chicken stock 2 gallons braising liquid 2 quarts of chili puree 3 oz canola oil Sweat the onions and garlic with the salt and the canola oil till golden brown.

Add the cumin and coriander and toast the spices. Add the rest of the ingredients except for the diced pork shoulder.

Simmer soup for 2 hours. Add the pork shoulder to the pot and bring back up to a simmer. Once simmering remove from heat and cool.

Cool overnight.

Remove the thick layer of fat from the top of the soup before re-heating.

Garnish the braised pork belly with julienned corn tortillas, limes, and cilantro.

BLD (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

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Elisabeth Rohm was just 27-years-old when she walked onto the set of “Law and Order” and Jerry Orbach (Detective Lennie Briscoe) said, “Nice to meetcha kid, how are ya? Listen, you need to get it in two takes. I got golf games and things like that.”

BY ROBYN FLANS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BENNY HADDAD

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“I DON’T HAVE A CHOICE NOT TO BE A WORKING MOM, BUT I ALSO REALIZE THERE WILL COME A TIME WHEN EASTON WILL BE TOO BUSY FOR ME AND IT’S TIME I’LL NEVER GET BACK.”

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Says Rohm: “He was making a joke, but his point was, ‘Nice to meet you, but don’t go screwing things up. This is a machine, we have a lot of work to do, I’ve been doing this a long time and you new kids come in and there’s a certain level of professionalism that’s expected here.’

“Also, parenthetically I think part of what he meant was there is a lack of preciousness about it,” she continues.

“Life is important, our marriages are important, our personal lives are important, lunch is important and we don’t want to waste too much time doing bad acting. We want a well balanced life.”

She found out he was true to his word when she threw herself a party two weeks into her run on the show and he was the only co-star who showed up with his wife and stayed two hours.

“He was the kind of guy who was going to work and do better than most actors will ever do in their lifetimes but he was also going to have balance and joy,” Rohm says.

“Law and order,” which she considers one of the two turning points in her life, took her two attempts -- first in 1998 when Angie Harmon nabbed the role of A.D.A. Abbie Carmichael and then in 2001 -- when she landed the part of A.D.A. Serena Southerlyn.

Rohm says she learned the values of life from orbach and co-star Sam Waterston, who she says fought for the script every day.

“Sam fought for the integrity and was impassioned about the justice system,” Rohm says. “And similarly, Sam is extremely devoted to his family.”

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Easton was born in 2008, three years after the completion of her work on the series, she tried to make it a reality.

“All I care about is Easton,” says Rohm about the subject of her 2013 book “Baby Steps: Having the Child I Always Wanted (Just Not as I Expected)” which delves into her struggle with infertility and the in-vitro fertilization process that allowed her to have a child. “Every decision I make is based upon being there for her and with her. Maybe I’d be more successful...” Rohm stops, the rest of her thought unspoken, but it’s implied -- maybe she’d be more successful if she didn’t consider her daughter more than her work.

“I don’t know what I’d be, but I wouldn’t be happy and I wouldn’t be as meaningful as a person.”

Rohm describes the period of becoming a mother and then losing her own mother as a “rocket ship into what really matters.”

She also became a single working mom about a year ago, which she calls “overwhelming.”

“I don’t have a choice not to be a working mom, but I also realize there will come a time when Easton will be too busy for me and it’s time I’ll never get back,” Rohm says.

While enjoying motherhood, Rohm has written two novels -- “Nerissa” in 2009 and “Desire” in 2011 – and she is one of Hollywood’s busiest actors.

Since the cancellation of last season’s “Stalker,” in which she played Dylan McDermott’s estranged wife, she has probably completed 10 other projects including the December release of “Joy,” alongside Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper and Robert DeNiro.

“Joy,” was directed and co-written by David o.

Russell for whom she also worked in the multi-oscar nominated “American Hustle.”

She considers working for Russell the other huge turning point in her career.

“I have the deepest and utmost respect for David,” Rohm says. “I’ve never met anyone like him. He works harder than anyone I’ve ever known and he elevates everyone around him. I feel so grateful to him for believing in me and taking a risk on me because I’ve really been a TV actress.”

Rohm says the role of Dolly Polito gave her great confidence in herself.

“David helped me build a character that was true and from the era, a type of woman we were both familiar with from our east coast childhoods. I have never met a more brave, huge hearted and inspired person who sees below the surface of everything put on, who sees beyond appearances. Somebody who says, it doesn't matter that you're not an Italian matriarch! We will make all of that!

He works from the inside out. And it is miraculous to be a part of his creative process.”

Rohm says she thinks of herself as more of an accidental actor rather than one who grew up hungering for the career. She followed her friends onto the stage at Sarah Lawrence college where she was studying to be a writer and found she enjoyed it.

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“I HAVE THE DEEPEST AND UTMOST RESPECT FOR DAVID. I’VE NEVER MET ANYONE LIKE HIM. HE WORKS HARDER THAN ANYONE I’VE EVER KNOWN AND HE ELEVATES EVERYONE AROUND HIM.” When she graduated, she thought she’d give acting a shot for a year or two instead of pursuing work at a newspaper as she had envisioned.

“Thank God I picked the acting because newspapers have become dinosaurs,” Rohm says.

She booked a job on daytime’s “one Life to Live” almost immediately and says it was a terrific training ground and opportunity.

“Around that time I began to study acting with more sincerity with uta Hagen,” she says.

Despite the 3-year contract on the soap, she was fired after about six months.

“It was earth-shattering at the time,” Rohm admits. one of the actresses on the show pulled her aside and told her not to worry; everyone who had gotten fired from the show had gone on to stardom. Prophetic words.

Within the month, she went to Los Angeles and screen tested for Dick Wolf who cast her in a pilot beside Kyle MacLachlan. She would go on to work for Wolf in “Law and order.”

During her time on the show, she began to work with such causes as the Red Cross, visiting the troops and helping with vaccinations in Cambodia and Vietnam. She still remains on its celebrity cabinet. She has worked with Step up Women’s Network, the Humane Society and Purina to encourage animal rescue and fostering and the American Heart Association in honor of her mother and aunt who died of heart attacks.

“I promote CPR certification to be mandated as a graduation requirement,” Rohm says. “We want a generation of life savers.

They may be in the right place at the right time.” ❖

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FIVE FAVES

HOLIDAY BOAT PARADES ✒ BY

LINDA LANG

HE HuLLS ARE STRuNG WITH SPARKLING LIGHTS. SILVER BELLS WITH RED RIBBoNS ADoRN BoWS AND STERNS. ANIMATED SANTAS, REINDEER, SLEIGHS, AND DECoRATED TREES ARE SECuRED oN DECKS WHILE GLISTENING STARS AND CANDy CANES CLIMB THE RIGGINGS AS CHEERFuL CARoLS FILL THE AIR.

T

The harbors also twinkle as stores and dining spots don their finest holiday décor.

Sometimes Santa stops by to collect children's wish lists. There may be faux snow or a couple of real reindeer adding to the merriment. you'll find strolling musicians and live entertainment as well as an array of gift shops to peruse, restaurants serving hot chocolate, toddies and lots of festive holiday fare.

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COURTESY OF CITY OF SANTA BARBARA WATERFRONT

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SANTA BARBARA PARADE OF LIGHTS: SUN. DEC. 6 i The seasonal festivities begin with Santa Barbara's 30th Annual Parade of Lights at 3 p.m. in Santa's village on the city pier. Families can play in tons of "snow," take photos with Santa, and the first 200 children receive free goody bags from Santa's helpers. "Deck the Hulls with Bows of Holly" is this year's theme with the parade starting at 5:30 p.m. and a fireworks show following at 7 p.m.

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Best viewing locations include Stearns Wharf and the breakwater. Admission is free. For more information, contact the Harbormaster’s Office at 805-564-5530.

1. Children can visit with Santa before the boat parade. 2. Decorated boats of all sizes parade along the coastline. 3. Visitors line the waterfront to view the holiday boat parade and fireworks. 4. Grand prize winner of last year's holiday boat parade. 5. Sailboats are fully rigged with holiday décor. 6. Children can come early to meet with Santa and Mrs. Claus. OPPOSITE PAGE: The fireworks show over Ventura Harbor Village is a popular tradition.

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VENTURA HARBOR PARADE OF LIGHTS & FIREWORKS: FRI. DEC. 18 & SAT. DEC. 19 i

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Ventura Harbor turns into a winter wonderland with lots of festivities including faux snowfalls every 15 minutes, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, two live reindeer, Dickenson Carolers and more. The theme of the 39th Annual Parade of Lights & Fireworks, which starts at 6 p.m. on both nights, is "Surf, Sand & Santa." There are also carnival rides and games, and admission and parking are free. The shops and restaurants, glistening in their holiday finery, are packed with gift items and festive dining options.

If you want to do your own cruise around the harbor and shoreline homes with their dazzling holiday light displays reflecting upon the water, you can take a "California Sleigh Ride" with Island Packets and Ventura Boat Rentals. The 90-minute cruises depart at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., Dec. 1-31. www.VenturaHarborVillage.com, 805-642-7753.

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"Adventures on the Sea" is the theme of the 52nd Annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade with Grand Marshal Florence Henderson. Festivities start with a fireworks display at 5:55 p.m. followed by the parade from 6 - 8 p.m.

Best viewing spots include Burton Chace Park where holiday music is heard via loud speakers with commentary about each boat from KFWB-AM radio newscaster Lisa Osborn and cartoon voiceover actor Mickey Czegledy. Fisherman's Village and the rest of Fiji Way also offer great viewing and dining at such spots as El Torito, Shanghai Reds, Angler's Choice, Marina del Rey Hotel on Bali Way and CafĂŠ del Rey on Admiralty Way. You can also enjoy the parade aboard a Hornblower cruise. www.visitmarina.com

COURTESY OF MIKE YOKOTAKE

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7. "Best Individual" winner last season. 8. Winner of the "Best Overall" award in the 2014 Holiday Boat Parade.

9. Florence Henderson is the Grand Marshal of the 52nd Annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade. 10. Winner of the "Best Spirit" award in 2014. 11. Boats of all sizes will compete in the 52nd Annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade.

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NEWPORT BEACH CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE: WED. DEC. 16 - SUN. DEC. 20 COURTESY OF NEWPORT BEACH AND COMPANY

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As the nation’s longest-running, lighted holiday boat parade, the 107th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade features five jam-packed nights headed by Grand Marshals comedic actress Leslie Mann and actor/singer/songwriter Mark McGrath with three departures nightly at 5:30 p.m., 7:15 p.m., and 8:30 p.m.. This year's theme is “Seas the Holidays.”

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Honored as one of the “World’s Best Christmas Parades” by Condé Nast Traveler and one of “Top Ten Christmas Happenings in the Nation” by The New York Times, more than 100 vessels trimmed from bow to stern with lights, Christmas scenes, animated displays, costumed carolers, and music will wind 14 miles around the harbor. You can also sail aboard one of the decorated boats and get a parade view of the magnificent light displays of waterfront estates. www.christmasparadeboats.com

ON THIS PAGE: 12. More than 100 decorated boats will participate in the 107th Annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. 13. Shops and homes around the harbor create holiday magic. 14. Dining spots and shops around the Newport Beach harbor display their finest holiday décor. 15. Last year's "Best of Sail" winner celebrates the holidays in San Diego Bay. 16. Speed boats also compete in the parade. 17. Sailboat lines and decks are packed with holiday figures during the annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights. 18. Last year's holiday boat parade "Runner Up" was a crowd pleaser.

COURTESY OF OF COOK & SCHMIDT

SAN DIEGO BAY PARADE OF LIGHTS: SUN. DEC. 13 & 20 i This cherished San Diego holiday tradition features more than 100 private boats decorated with holiday lights, sailing along the waters of San Diego Bay. This year’s 44th annual pageant, "Christmas Around the World," starts at 5:30 p.m. both nights. The parade originates at Shelter Island and continues past Harbor Island, the Embarcadero, Seaport Village, and Ferry Landing in Coronado.

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Great viewing is available along the Embarcadero and many other locales lining the harbor. Some 80,000 San Diegans and visitors are expected to view the procession, so restaurant reservations, dinner cruises, and holiday events sell out months in advance.

Reserve your spot as soon as possible. www.sdparadeoflights.org. ❖

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THE HOOD

Palm Sp COURTESY OF THE CHATEAU AT LAKE LA QUINTA

TODAY AND YESTE

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N THE 1800s, IT WAS KNoWN AS AGuA CALIENTE (SPANISH FoR BoILING WATER) AND SPIRITuAL CENTER oF CAHuILLA INDIAN TRIBAL LIFE WHICH DATED BACK SoME 2,000 yEARS. IN 1876, SouTHERN PACIFIC RAILRoAD CuT THRouGH THE SAN GoRGoNIo PASS EN RouTE To LoS ANGELES, INTRoDuCING THE AREA To CAuCASIAN PIoNEERS WHo quICKLy DISCoVERED THE HEALING PoWERS oF THE DESERT CLIMATE. AMoNG THEM WAS WELWooD MuRRAy, A SCoTTISH RANCHER WHo BuILT THE PALM SPRINGS HoTEL WHERE STARBuCK'S NoW STANDS AT THE INTERSECTIoN oF PALM CANyoN DRIVE AT TAHquITz CANyoN WAy. In 1909, Nellie and Dr. Harry Coffman opened The Desert Inn and Sanatorium, which, due to Nellie's entrepreneurial skills, became a world-renowned hotel for the healthy and wealthy. By the mid 1900s Palm Springs was a favorite escape for Frank Sinatra, Ava Gardner, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, Jack Benny, Elizabeth Taylor, and many others including presidents such as Dwight Eisenhower and Gerald Ford.

Today, Palm Springs has grown from a celebrity playground into nine cities comprising the Greater Palm Springs area — Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm

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ON THIS PAGE:

1. New is The Chateau at Lake La Quinta, a French manor-style boutique with sweeping lake views. 2. Entrance to La Quinta Resort & Club in 1926. 3. Entrance to La Quinta Resort & Club today.

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PALM SPRINGS

HOTELS AND RESORTS x With

nearly 200 hotels and resorts, Greater Palm Springs oers something for everyone. The resorts oer every perk from pools and spas to fine and casual dining, golf, tennis, and access to nearby shopping.

The 45-acre La quinta Resort & Club, an original

1926 Hollywood escape, was recently refurbished with every in-room and outdoor amenity. In addition to being ranked the number one golf resort in North America by the International Association of Golf Tour operators, other accolades include La quinta Resort Tennis Club being named one of the world's top tennis resorts. There are seven dining options, lots of pools, luxurious spa, and like many of the other area hotels, dogs are welcome and even have their own day spa.

Smaller historic properties are also upgrading to today's standards while retaining the charm of times past. At The Willows, you can stay in rooms once regularly occupied by Albert Einstein or Marion Davies and walk in the footsteps of other notables.

L'Horizon Resort & Spa, originally built by Jack Wrather as a retreat to enjoy with Betty Grable, Marilyn Monroe, Presidents Reagan and Nixon and other friends, just revamped the original 20 bungalows built in 1952 by renowned architect William Cody

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COURTESY OF THE WILLOWS

Desert, Indian Wells, La quinta, Indio and Coachella. A premier world resort and golf destination averaging 75 degrees during the winter, the area continues to welcome new resorts, restaurants, shops, and museums while honoring its Native American heritage, Hollywood legacy and mid-century modern architecture. A new generation of Hollywood can be spotted flip-flopping around town, especially during the Palm Springs International Film Festival in January founded by former mayor Sonny Bono. Palm Springs also has its own Walk of Stars with nearly 400 honoring those in entertainment, literary arts, area pioneers and humanitarians.

4. One of the original casitas at La Quinta Resort & Club in 1926. 5. At The Willows, you walk in the steps of the Hollywood elite. 6. The new Chateau at Lake La Quinta has 24 luxury accommodations, gourmet restaurant and lounge.

7. Now named the "Pretty in Pink Suite," this was Marilyn Monroe's favorite room at the Palm Springs Rendezvous.

ON THIS PAGE:

COURTESY OF THE CHATEAU AT LAKE LA QUINTA

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and is adding 24 new guest rooms. In uptown Palm Springs near the Racquet Club where the stars partied is Rendezvous, named

by Trip Advisor as the "Number one Small Hotel in the u.S." for 2015.

Built in the 1930s, Mira Loma, as it was then known, was a private

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retreat for Marilyn Monroe, Veronica Lake and Gloria Swanson. In downtown, Palm Mountain Resort & Spa just completed renovations that includes 23 new rooms, new lobby, spa and meeting space.

New to the scene is The Chateau at Lake La 10 quinta, a French manorstyle boutique with 24 luxury accommodations, Mélange gourmet restaurant and lounge, and sweeping lake views from most rooms.

Coming in late 2016 are the new 150-room, 17-suite luxury Andaz Palm Springs in downtown; Kimpton Hotel Palm Springs on North Palm Canyon Drive; and Facebook's Ezra Callahan's ARRIVE, a new 32-room contemporary hotel; and two new hotels in La quinta's SilverRock Resort.

Giacomo Pettinari.

Considered one of the desert's hottest new gourmet restaurants and bars, it features fire pits and fountains, is dramatically lit by Lindsey Adelman chande-

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8. One of the desert's hottest new restaurants and bars, SOPA features firepits, fountains and a Michelin-starred chef. 9. Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge features minimalist white décor punctuated by original works of art and photography.

10. River in Rancho Mirage is a premier destination for food, fashion and fun in the heart of the Palm Springs valley.

11. The new spa at La Quinta offers a full range of treatments, anti-aging therapies, salon and more.

12. New to the night scene is the Bardot Nightclub at the Hard Rock Hotel in downtown Palm Springs.

DINING & NIGHTLIFE x SoPA, L’Horizon Resort & Spa's new alfresco dining space, is headed

by Michelin-starred chef

liers, and offers everything from intimate dining to family-style at a 26’ live edge communal table. once the Palm Springs Post office, Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge is another trendy find. Its striking minimalist white décor is punctuated by original works of art and photography. Private dining rooms, Swanky Lounge, and patio dining are completed by views of the Santa Jacinto Mountains.

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activities aside, the desert is pure adventure. you can visit Joshua Tree National Park, hike and bike in Indian Canyons, go hot air ballooning, and see the mid-century modern architecture for which the area is so well known. Tours take you back to the glamour days of the mid-1900s as you see the homes of Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, Elvis' honeymoon hideaway and other places where the stars lived and played.

In January is the Palm Springs International Film Festival, one of the largest in North America attracting 135,000 attendees annually.

In February is the Palm Springs Fine Art Fair with some 60 galleries exhibiting

DAVID A. LEE

13. Frey House II is the second of two personal homes designed and built in Palm Springs by renowned architect Albert Frey. 14. Palm Desert Classic Club, former host site for PGA Tour's Bob Hope Chrysler Classic, is considered one of the best resort courses.

15. The world famous El Paseo Shopping District in Palm Desert features more than 300 world-class shops, art galleries, jewelers, restaurants and more. 16.

Modernism Week in February offers tours of iconic mid-century homes, including many once owned

by Hollywood's elite.

17. The PGA West Nicklaus course is popular with amateurs and pros alike.

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works by over 300 artists.

Also in February is Modernism Week celebrating mid-century modern architecture, art, fashion and

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culture. Activities include the Modernism Show & Sale, tours of iconic homes, designer showcase events, cocktail parties, and more.

For golfers, the PGA's CareerBuilder Challenge in Partnership the Clinton Foundation is in January when the TCP Stadium and Nicklaus courses host 150 professional players with Pro-Am play for first 54 holes. â?–

DAVID A. LEE

Palm Springs blends French disco dĂŠcor and Palm Springs chic with state-of-the-art sound and lighting. Also recently opened is Hester Social Club done in vintage style with a speakeasy vibe.

Farm-to-table cocktails feature fresh fruits and herbs, and on Saturdays, a DJ spins light R&B and soul with an occasional live three-piece blues band.

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For information on places to stay, dine, see and events, go to www.visitgreaterpalmsprings.com.

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F E AT U R E

Desert Landmark and Home of the Famous Date Shakes

BY JULIANNA KECK

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estled approximately 100 miles east of Los Angeles, lies the Coachella Valley, a thriving desert widely known as a playground for presidents and Hollywood stars since the 1950s. With its luxurious resorts, world-class golf courses, and year-round sunshine it remains on every leisure-seekers’ radar. Thanks to the annual Coachella Valley

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Music and Arts Festival, which continues to beckon hipsters from near and far, it is now attracting the younger generation.

Regardless of these prestigious claims to fame, the Coachella Valley remains first and foremost the date capital of the world. The production of dates is what first put the Valley on the map and has continued to play an integral role in the

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development of the area throughout the past century. The thriving date industry of the Coachella Valley produces more than 80 percent of all dates grown in the united States.

The same dry heat that entices hundreds of thousands of tourists to flock to the desert makes this valley an agricultural paradise. The rich soil is ideal for its production of desirable produce, but dates have been the signature crop for more than a century.

An iconic symbol of life in Southern California, it is nearly impossible to imagine the landscape of the region without the aesthetic palm trees lining streets as far as the eye can see. However, there is only one species of palm, Washingtonia filifera, the California Fan Palm, which is indigenous to California. Date palms were introduced to the Coachella Valley in 1900, when horticulturists recognized the potential for the industry to thrive in the similar growing conditions the valley offered. And thrive they did. The two predominant varieties of dates grown in the Coachella Valley are the Medjool and the Deglet Noor.

Even those who have little previous knowledge of the Coachella Valley’s booming date industry may recall the Hadley Fruit orchards sign off Interstate-10 that has welcomed visitors for decades as they escape to the desert cities. The landmark roadside store, known for its delicious date shakes and wholesome organic food products, was started by entrepreneur, Paul Hadley in 1931. Less commonly known is that Hadley decided to buy 210 acres of date orchards when he became dissatisfied with the quality of dates

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from his suppliers. Hadley successfully grew his business, Hadley Date Gardens, and in the 1980s sold the company to the Keck family, pioneers in the California date industry for more than 70 years. Hadley Date Gardens remains a family-owned and operated company, committed to growing, packing, and shipping the highest quality dates on the market, that many identify as their favorite source of California dates.

Farming dates is a labor-intensive task that requires constant attention although harvesting is completed in the fall. The shipping season for dates is year-round, but the peak of sales culminates during the holidays.

The future of the date industry is looking brighter than ever, as it is in a period of revival. The market for dates is strong, and palm offshoots that were planted a decade ago to compensate for ornamental palms sold for landscaping, are beginning to yield more and more fruit every year. Albert Keck II, President of Hadley Date Gardens, says, “We expect our volume to double over the next decade.” The good news is that you can find this year’s bountiful crop of newly harvested California Dates in your favorite local grocery store or online retailer. ❖

Washingtonia filifera

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STROLLING THROUGH THE SOUTHLAND:

EXPLORE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ON A WALKING TOUR EVERy CITy HAS ITS oWN PERSoNA, ITS oWN FEELING, AND ITS oWN SToRy. BESIDES THE BENEFITS oF ExERCISE, WALKING TouRS oFFER ANoTHER DIMENSIoN To youR VISIT. A WALKING TouR GIVES VISIToRS THE CHANCE To CoNNECT WITH THE CHARACTER oF A CITy AND GET A FIRST-HAND uNDERSTANDING oF WHAT THE AREA IS REALLy ABouT. H ✒ BY

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BY TAKING A STEP INTO A NEW PLACE, TOURISTS AND LOCALS ALIKE VINTAGE VENICE REEL TO REAL TOURS

CAN GET A FEEL FOR THE ENERGY OF THE CITY THEY ARE IN. AND IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, ENERGY IS EVERYTHING.

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VINTAGE VENICE TOURS

Voted “Best Walking Tour” of 2012 and 2013 by Los Angeles Magazine, the Vintage Venice Tour is one of the best ways to experience this iconic boardwalk. The Vintage Venice Tour allows you to indulge in the modern attractions that the beach has to offer, while also showing you the rich history of the town through film clips that span the past 105 years. See the past come to life and witness the development of the culture of Venice Beach with stops at Muscle Beach, the Venice Canals, the ocean Front Walk, and more. www.vintagevenicetours.com

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SANTA BARBARA WALKING TOUR

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SANTA BARBARA WALKING TOURS

While on your visit to Santa Barbara, be sure to sign up for the Santa Barbara Walking Tour. Focusing on the artistic heritage and landmarks of the city, this tour will give plenty of insight into Santa Barbara’s culture and history. you can expect to see an amazing array of art -- from statues to murals to ancient artifacts that are integral to the personality of this vibrant city. www.santabarbarawalkingtours.com

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FELIX IN HOLLYWOOD TOUR

TWO RODEO DRIVE

Embark on this 60minute walking tour to get an in-depth look at the oldest commercial area in Pasadena. The tour offers you a chance to step into the past and visit the original buildings from the early 1900’s that still stand today such as the Chamber of Commerce Building and the Former Santa Fe Railway Station. This walking tour is sure to provide an interesting and diverse look at the city. www.oldpasadena.org

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While the list of Hollywood tours is seemingly endless, the Felix In Hollywood tour stands out as one of best ways to get a first-hand look into the history of this city. on the 90-minute tour, you will learn all about Hollywood’s popculture origins and the history of how and why the entertainment industry has its roots entrenched so deeply in the town. If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind look into one of Southern California’s most iconic cities, the Felix In Hollywood Tour is a great choice. www.felixinhollywoodtours.com

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SAN DIEGO WALKING TOURS Walking Tours of San Diego is unique in this list in that it offers a tour of every major neighborhood in the area. It takes an in-depth understanding of each of these small parts in order to appreciate the whole city. The guides will introduce the tourists to the oneof-a-kind shops, local cafes, and architectural intricacies that each of these neighborhoods has to offer. With tours to places like Point Loma, the Gaslamp District, and La Jolla, there is plenty to explore in San Diego. www.walkingtoursofsandiego.com

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CITY OF BEVERLY HILLS

JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

BEVERLY WILSHIRE, A FOUR SEASONS HOTEL

If you find yourself at the Joshua Tree National Park, be sure to stop at Keys Ranch for an amazing guided walking tour. The 90-minute tour offers an eye-opening look into life in the Mojave Desert. See the historic ranch house, the schoolhouse, store, and workshop in this quaint desert town.

With more than 60 years of history still standing, the Keys Ranch is a great chance to see a lifestyle that is unknown to many Southern California natives and visitors. www.nps.gov/jotr

BEVERLY HILLS WALKING TOUR SEEN ON SCREEN The Seen on Screen Walking Tour takes visitors through the town that has been a major set piece since the dawn of the film industry. on this tour you will explore the areas that have become iconic after their time on the silver screen. The tour stops include the Electric Fountain, The Beverly Hilton, Edelweiss Chocolates, and many more sites that you are sure to recognize. www.lovebeverlyhills.com. â?–

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FAMILY FUN

MUST TRY DIY

HANDS-ON FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY MoST FAMILIES WILL AGREE THAT THERE ARE TWo MAJoR yEARNINGS oF THE SouL: THE DESIRE To CREATE AND THE DESIRE To EAT CAKE. CooKING, PAINTING, BAKING, AND CRAFTS — CREATING IS AN IMPoRTANT PART oF ANy CHILD’S DEVELoPMENT. THRouGHouT SouTHERN CALIFoRNIA, THERE ARE A NuMBER oF FuN DIy-STyLE EVENTS AND ESTABLISHMENTS WHERE FAMILIES CAN DELIGHT IN BRoADENING AND STRENGTHENING THEIR SKILLS ToGETHER. ✒ BY

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MADELINE ROSENE

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THE HOT SPOT STUDIO i

Pottery painting and candle making inside The Hot Spot Studio is made easy for everyone from toddlers to the elderly. A BYOB facility, mom and dad can feel free to bring their own adult beverages and snacks for the kids. In this traditional studio setting with high ceilings, an unfinished floor, and tons of natural light, you can choose from a wide variety of pottery to paint including figurines, dinnerware, and pet bowls. The Hot Spot Studio is great for families who are looking for an activity that is a little unique. With differently shaped candle molds, wax colors, and scents to choose from, creating a candle can result in many combinations. After choosing a mold, artists fit different wax colors inside along with charms and toys like army men, spiders, and special heirlooms brought from home. Next, choose from one of 30 scents such as chai tea, fresh linen, cotton candy, bubble gum, and monkey fart (don’t worry, it smells like banana). After the mold is finished, a hot wax filler is added to hold it all together. It sets for about 10 minutes and is then ready to take home, while any painted pottery (if turned in by 5:00 p.m.) is ready the next day after it’s fired. The Hot Spot Studio is located at Liberty Station Barracks 14, 2770 Historic Decatur Rd., San Diego.

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COLOR ME MINE i Do you or your little ones love to paint? Get the family together at Color Me Mine and explore different dishware — plates, cups, bowls, and pots — with hundreds of pieces from which to choose. The kitchen is your canvas! A therapeutic activity that’s not just for kids, Color Me Mine emphasizes a bonding experience between friends and family. The surroundings offer a relaxed, positive, and pressure-free environment the whole family can enjoy. To find a location near you visit: www.colormemine.com

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CALIFORNIA SHABU-SHABU i Hungry? Time for DIY dinner!

At California Shabu-shabu in Costa Mesa and Fountain Valley, raw meat and vegetables are served with a pot of boiling water but the preparation is in your hands. Start by submerging a thin slice of meat or vegetable in the pot of boiling water made with kelp, and stir it for a few seconds. The term “shabu-shabu” is an onomatopoeia derived from the sound the food makes when swished in the pot. Cooked meat and vegetables are usually dipped in assorted sauces such as ponzu or goma before eating, and served with a bowl of steamed white rice.

Once the meat and vegetables have been eaten, leftover broth from the pot is customarily combined with the remaining rice, and the resulting soup is usually eaten last. For reservations visit www.californiashabushabu.com.

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Sweet tooth? Duff’s Cake Mix on Melrose and North Sweetzer Ave. provides a great interactive and hands-on activity for the whole family to enjoy. Upon arriving, expect to choose between decorating cupcakes or a cake. Then put on your gloves and apron, gather your goodies, stencils, and rollers, take a gander at the inspiration board, and work together! According to Duff’s store manager, Andrew, families who come in often hold contests within their group and stick to a theme, like “seasons” or “holiday fun.” Reservations can be made online at www.duffscakemix.com. ❖

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PERFECT PICKS

Holiday Gift Guide ✒ BY

JULIANNA KECK

IT’S THE SEASoN To CELEBRATE AS WELL AS SHoP AND GIVE To THE SPECIAL PEoPLE IN youR LIFE. IF you’RE TIRED oF GIFTING THE SAME oLD SCARF AND TIE, CHECK ouT ouR SELECTIoN oF GooDIES SuRE To MAKE ANyoNE’S SEASoN MoRE JoyFuL.

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1linĒiJ

Bond No. 9’s electric new eau de parfum, B9, is inspired by one of the hottest addresses in New York—Bond Street. Like the location it commemorates, B9 has the power to last, seduce, enchant, and surprise!

Bondno9.com $260-$320

linĒiJ handcrafted handbags and accessories are luxurious, bespoke, and infused with Caribbean influences. the recently launched collection is versatile and bold for those with discerning tastes, who want to encompass utilitarianism, functionality, unique design, style, and sophistication. Lineij-atelier.com $110.89-$10,549.05 (items on sale)

3SPICY VINES RED WINE

HOLIDAY GIFT SET Spice up your holiday season with this unique red wine holiday gift

set from Spicy vines. includes gold medal Zin master 2012 Sonoma county Zinfandel, Scarlet's Flirtation: 2011 mendocino county Zinfandel, Spicy vines original Blend and Spicy vines cocktail Book with artisan holiday cocktail and wine mixology recipes. available at spicyvines.com. $99 (incl. shipping)

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ARTIS FLUENTA COLLECTION

Created by former MaC Cosmetics Senior executive and artis Founder, Matthew Waitesmith, artis combines ergonomics with design, function and performance, making cosmetics application easier and more efficient. Whether you’re looking for a body brush for a smooth sunless tanner application or want to contour makeup to achieve a glowing complexion, this line of makeup brushes is different from any other you’ve ever used. Featured at neiman Marcus,Neimanmarcus.com, bergdorf goodman & bergdorfGoodman.com $36-$400

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Acorelle Collection

Each sophisticated fragrance in Laboratoire Odysud’s innovative Acorelle collection uniquely combines the beneficial properties of particular essential oils to improve everyday emotional wellbeing. All formulas are handcrafted in France, and are 100% natural and certified organic.

Baudelairesoaps.com $15-$55

7avión reserva 44

When it comes to gift-giving this holiday season, only gift the world’s best. From Tequila Avión, the “World’s Best Tasting Tequila,” comes Avión Reserva 44, the smoothest, most superior Extra Añejo tequila that the most demanding tequila connoisseurs and single malt scotch drinkers will fully appreciate. Created using a proprietary ultra-slow filtration method, Reserva 44 is aged for 43 months in an exclusive stone temperature controlled cave. The tequila is then aged an additional month in a specially selected barrel, which subtly refines the liquid and creates a deeper more complex flavor.

Reserva 44 then is hand poured into a beautiful crystal decanter and individually hand signed by Avión founder, Ken Austin. For Holiday 2015, exclusively through Reservebar.com, you can customize any Avión varietal, including Reserva44, with a meaningful message, name or seasonal salutation. www.tequilaavion.com / $170 with custom etching at Reservebar.com

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5 KRUPS

The KRUPS EA9010 is as convenient as having a personal barista on call! This advanced machine has the specialized savvy to prepare 17 different coffee bar recipes at the touch of a single button—more than any other fully automatic espresso/cappuccino maker on the market.

The intuitive digital touchscreen makes it easy to customize your selections, from coffee flavor and strength to brewing temperature and quantity. The KRUPS EA9010 is available at William-Sonoma for $2,499.95.

8 Ringly Ringly is the chic, new answer for staying on top of the things that matter most by connecting to your phone and sending you customized notifications through vibration and light. The smart ring is crafted with hand-cut precious and semi precious gemstones and features 18k matte gold or rhodium-toned plating. Ringly.com $195-$260

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ON THE CALENDAR

San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival

November 15-22 www.sandiegowine classic.com Celebrating its 12th anniversary, this is one of the largest wine and food festivals in the nation. The weeklong event is a delicious way to sample San Diego’s thriving wine and food scene.

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november/december

ROBERT J. HIBBS

Taste of Menudo and Pozole November 15 www.lafoodfestivals.com One of the 2015 Los Angeles Food Festivals, this edition dishes up two traditional Mexican stew soups prepared by restaurant chefs and food vendors.

There will also be live entertainment, beer, a wine garden, and exhibitor booths.

Art San Diego November 5-8 www.art-sandiego.com Set in San Diego’s scenic Balboa Park, the seventh annual art-fest will showcase works from dozens of emerging and established artists. More than 15,000 art lovers and collectors attended last year’s event.

Holiday Craft Fair November 7-8 www.applevalley.org Come and shop at this annual Holiday Craft Fair, where all items are homemade. Bring the kids along to create holiday crafts then head over to see Santa for your Christmas photos. More than 40 vendors, parking is free and a snack bar will be provided.

Palm Springs Veterans Day Parade November 11 www.visitpalmsprings.com The City of Palm Springs proudly presents the 19th annual Palm Springs Veterans Day Parade. This year marks the 70th Anniversary of the end of WWII and also the 25th Anniversary of Desert Storm/Desert Shield. This parade is one of the largest in Southern California and is supported by military units, marching bands, veterans’ organizations and much more.

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Props & Hops Craft Beer Festival Palm Springs Air Museum www.palmspringsairmuseum.org The 4th annual festival features craft breweries from So Cal, plus there are local music acts, food vendors and flight exhibitions. You must be 21 and over to attend - $40 includes beer tastings and live music.

Hall and MOCA. You can bring the little ones for the Widdle Wobble (ages 2-12).

Turkey Trot LA benefits Midnight Mission.

Desert Arts Festival November 27-29 www.westcoastartists.com The Desert Arts Festival will feature 100 artists presenting their original work in all mediums of two and three dimensional fine art, including paintings in acrylic, oils and watercolors, photography, etchings, sculpture in clay, glass, metal, stone and wood. Each artist will be present to meet with the public and discuss their work.

Catalina Island Eco-Marathon November 21 www.catalinaecomarathon.com Experience the spectacular views of the Pacifc Ocean and the island's wildlife during this race. Sign up for either the 26.2 or the 13.1 miles and run some of the most beautiful, rugged and breathtaking trails you will ever experience!

Santa Barbara 5K Gobble Gobble Run November 23 www.santabarbaraca.com The 5K Gobble Gobble Run is the Run with Fun! Enjoy a glass of Wine at the Finish Line from Fess Parker Wines or walk through 2-3 Wine Tasting stations along the 1K course. Enjoy Live Music, Food Trucks, and of course more wine.

Promises to be fun for the entire family.

Turkey Trot Los Angeles 5K and 10K Thanksgiving Day Race November 26 www.turkeytrot.la Have some fun before the feast at the annual Turkey Trot in downtown Los Angeles! Runners 10 and up can compete in scenic 5K or 10K races in festive Turkey Day attire, which take runners along Spring St. by the historic Disney

Apple Butter Festival November 27-29 www.losriosrancho.com The smell of apple butter is in the air during this crisp, fall season out on the ranch. Rileys at Los Rios Rancho pays tribute to a delicious spread made from fresh harvest apples during California's apple season each November. Hands-on demonstrations of apple butter making in a big copper kettle outdoors, visitors can "start the snitz" and "add the money." There will be pioneer crafts and games, music, carriage rides, and other fun activities rekindling memories of a simpler time. An old-fashioned hoedown Saturday night will feature music by the Riley's Mountaineer Band.

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ON THE CALENDAR

Festival of Lights November 27 through the first week of January www.festivaloflightsca.com The historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, which has hosted eight presidents dating back to Theodore Roosevelt in 1903, is decorated for the holidays with 4 million LED lights and more than 400 animated angels, elves and other characters. It’s the focal point of the 23rd annual celebration that also includes horse-drawn carriage rides, an ice-skating rink, carolers and other musicians.

Festival Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker

december

ing ballerinas and tap dancers performing along with the tree lighting at opening Julefest ceremony, followed by the traditional Danish Julefest Parade through Solvang. Visit with Santa after the Julefest Parade.

Harvest Festival December 4-6 www.harvestfestival.com The 43rd annual arts and crafts show will have more than 24,000 handmade items including jewelry, clothing, specialty foods, photography, original art, hand-turned wood, and ceramics to browse and buy.

Stage and strolling entertainment, and fun zones for the kids will keep everyone busy.

Julefest Tree Lighting Ceremony and Parade December 4-5 www.solvangusa.com Enjoy Christmas music, danc-

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Indio International Tamale Festival December 5 www.tamalefestival.net The rich heritage of the tamale, consistent community support and hard working tamale makers have created the festival’s tremendous success.

Recently, the Food Network-TV ranked the Indio International Tamale Festival in the top 10 “All-American Food Festivals” in the nation!

Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade December 5 www.psfestivaloflights.com The annual Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade features lighted floats, equestrians, bands, autos, and celebrities.

Walk for Kids Growth December 5 www.walkforkidsgrowth.org This charitable event will feature a beautiful 3-mile walk, live entertainment, display booths, refreshments and giveaways! Help increase awareness of childhood growth disorders and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

3rd Annual Catalina Island Museum Holiday Symphony Concert www.catalinamuseum.org This annual concert features an ensemble from Stanford University. The concert will feature classical music as well as holiday favorites.

Festival Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker December 12-24 www.festivalballet.org Celebrate the season with visions of the Sugar Plum Fairy, her dashing prince and heroine Clara, while a cast of more than 100 takes you back in time to mystical lands of old world charm. Familyfriendly and affordable, FBT’s The Nutcracker features internationally acclaimed guest artists, professional company dancers and budding young talent from across the Southland.

Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade December 16-20 www.newportbeachboatparade.com Rated by The New York Times as one of the country's top holiday happenings, this glittering event is a must see in The OC during the holidays. Local boat owners lavishly decorate their vessels, then join in a dazzling floating parade through the enormous Newport Harbor.

Anything that floats is welcome to join—a fabulous mix of billionaire’s yachts, luxury sailboats, day cruisers, and even decorated canoes and kayaks

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David Benoit Christmas Tribute to Charlie Brown December 19 www.carpenterarts.org Get your family into the holiday spirit with an evening of cherished Vince Guaraldi tunes, starring jazz pianist David Benoit and special appearance by the All-American Boys Chorus!

Disney On Ice Presents “Frozen�

December 29-January 4 www.disneyonice.com Enter a fantastical winter wonderland beyond all imagination at Disney On Ice presents Frozen Presented by Stonyfield YoKids Organic Yogurt. The heartwarming Academy Award-winning tale you love is now live and skating into your town.

To feature your upcoming Southern California event in our "On the Calendar" section, e-mail: calendar@socallifemag.com

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LET IT SNOW oST oF uS LIVING IN BEAuTIFuL SouTHERN CALIFoRNIA EITHER GREW uP WITHouT SNoW oR MoVED HERE To GET AWAy FRoM IT.

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Regardless, right around Christmas every year, we all seem to want just a bit of snow. In fact, the best-selling song of all time is Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas,” written in December of 1940. The Bing Crosby version has sold more than 100 million copies, which, by the way, is probably roughly equivalent to the number of times one hears that song during the everexpanding holiday season — but that’s for next year’s holiday column.

It has long been rumored that Berlin wrote his iconic song while spending his 1940 holiday season in Southern California’s La Quinta, a town whose average December temperatures are in the mid 70s. He had to have been

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dreaming of snow, because the only white he would have actually seen was puffy white clouds, or maybe the perfect white sand of our beaches.

Our lack of holiday snow makes winter the one time of year when those who have moved to Southern California from a four-season climate tear up, just a little.

Shoveling driveways, putting chains on cars and bundling up with five layers of clothing are conveniently forgotten while roaring fireplaces, gently falling snow and hot chocolate are the

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SCOTT HARRIS

memories, real or imagined, that they dream about. Those of us who grew up in a snow-free environment have only the stories we’ve heard and Disney specials to build our white Christmas dreams on, but build them we do.

Now, it’s not that there isn’t any snow in Southern California. Big Bear and Wrightwood have terrific ski resorts.

The San Jacinto and San Bernardino Mountain ranges are often covered with a dusting of snow, which we look at longingly from our homes, offices and quite often

our cars as we fight traffic on the 405 or the 101.

But now, with so many of us either letting our lawns die or replacing the beautiful rolling green grass so long associated with Southern California with cactus and rocks, we are once again reminded that we live in a desert, a virtually snow-free desert. Yet, that almost primal desire for holiday snow still lies inside us, and we Southern Californians do what we can.

There are a few yearround indoor ice-rinks throughout Southern California, and they typi-

cally decorate for the holidays. Shopping malls throughout Southern California also build temporary ice rinks, indoors or outside, and we flock to them like moths to the light. In Long Beach, the Queen Mary creates the Ice Kingdom, a 13,000-square-foot walkthrough exhibit that is almost three stories tall, made from more than two million pounds of ice and offers temperatures cold enough that parkas are provided as you enter.

And, every year, we read about a couple of families who miss the snow so much that they have it blown into their front yards and invite all their friends and neighbors over to enjoy a couple of days of snowball fights and 10-foot toboggan runs.

But, for those of us who love the idea of an actual Southern California white Christmas, I’m thinking 2015 could be our year.

We came close on January 22, 1921, when snow fell on Hollywood, and again as recently as Jan. 10, 1949, when a third of an inch of snow fell on the LA civic center and even our beach cities had a little. The reason for my optimism? El Niño. Since no one can predict exactly the impact that it’s going to have on our weather, only that it will be severe and unusual, why not snow?

As Mr. Berlin so beautifully and simply put it, “I’m dreaming of a white Christmas.” ❖

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My Southern California

Malibu Pier, California

BY TIM HORTON

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MALIBU

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CALIFORNIA

e Based in Malibu, Tim Horton has been smitten with the photographer’s curse; seeing the world through a lens. He can no longer walk down the street without noticing a colorful rusty hinge, a weathered window frame, or the way the sun shines through a leaf … or the shadow that same leaf casts on the wall. But his first photography loves are the seascapes and sunsets of Malibu as well as the surprising abundant nature in the Malibu Lagoon.

Instagram: @timhortonphotomalibu Website: www.timhortonphoto.com Email: timhortonphoto@yahoo.com

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

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

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE - NOV.DEC2015

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