Love Local
LIFE + CULTURE
WHERE SENIORS SHINE ON STAGE
HEALTH + WELLNESS
COMPASSIONATE CARE FOR YOUR LOVED ONES
ENTERTAINMENT
CREATE LASTING MEMORIES THIS VALENTINE’S DAY
ARTS + CULTURE
CHOC’S LITTLEST ANGELS GUILD
» Primary Eye Care
» Cornea & Contact Lens
» Pediatric Vision Care
» Vision Therapy
» Ocular Disease & Ophthalmology Consultation
» Low Vision Rehabilitation
» Ocular Prosthetics
» Keratoconus Management
» Dry Eye Management
» Myopia Control
» Sports Vision
» Optical Showroom
INTERIOR EXTERIOR DESIGNS, INC.
Love Local
Valentine’s Day comes with so many ways to celebrate, and there’s no one “right” way to mark the occasion. We’re all unique, and that’s what makes this day of love so special.
Do you plan a romantic night out or opt for a cozy evening at home? Will you buy a card, or simply send a heartfelt message? Personally, I tend to land somewhere in the middle. We’ll all have our own answers, shaped by our preferences and personalities. But one thing we share is the chance to remind those around us just how much they’re loved.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, we hope the stories and features in this month’s issue will inspire you to spread a little more love—especially within your own community.
For me, sometimes the smallest gestures can have the biggest impact. Whether it’s a handwritten card, a thoughtful email, or even a quick text, it’s the little acts that show the people we care about how important they are. As we transition from the chill of winter to the promise of spring, now is the perfect time to connect with the people in your life—your family, neighbors, and friends.
Love Local goes beyond just supporting small businesses—it’s about strengthening the bonds within our communities. In this issue, you’ll find features on CHOC Littlest Angels, The Studio Improv/Seniors on Stage, and local businesses like White’s Draperies and More and BrightStar Care . We also share fun Valentine’s Day date ideas for you and your significant other. Or, for a more laid-back option, why not grab a bottle of wine, some cheese and crackers, or your favorite chocolate, and enjoy a cozy movie night at home?
As always, we believe in the power of community. What we can accomplish together is far greater than anything we could do alone. This is something we see reflected in the inspiring stories featured on these pages every month.
This Valentine’s Day, let’s make a point to share love with everyone around us— our partners, family, friends, and all those we encounter in our communities. A kind word or a small gesture can truly brighten someone’s day, and together, we can make the world a little warmer.
Thank you for inviting us into your homes and I hope to see you around town.
Happy February!
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Brian Patchett | brian.patchett@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Tawanna Cullen | tawanna.cullen@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Heather Whitsitt
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Art Cordero/CoreMedia Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
3:5-6
inside the issue
14 18 26 30 18
Littlest Angel Guild
Support CHOC by attending the Littlest Angel Guild’s signature fundraising event, “Cheers to 60 Years”
White’s Draperies & More
Shop custom window coverings, bedding, and more at White’s Draperies Show your love with customized care
BrightStar Care of CA – Anaheim/Yorba Linda provides in-home care services to individuals in North Orange County, with a customized care plan to meet your needs. The Studio Improv: Seniors on Stage
The Studio Improv’s “Seniors on Stage” program shines the spotlight on talented Seniors
Lois, CHOC’S first resident dog. Lois and her handler Chloe Krikac work to help young patients reach specific, individualized clinic goals. CHOC Littlest Angel event benefits the Heart Institute and Resident Dog and Pet Therapy Programs.
Life is Better At Home
When your loved one needs extra care at home, choosing the right caregiver agency can be tough. Let BrightStar Care® make it easier.
• Whether they just need someone checking in a few times a week or round-the-clock care, we can help. No minimum hours required.
• We offer companion and personal care, including bathing, meal prep, medication reminders, mobility assistance and more.
Learn more at brightstarcare.com/anaheim-yorba-linda
Lic #:304700424
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Yorba Linda Farmers Market
Discover the Yorba Linda Farmers Market and a love for fresh, seasonal foods, support local suppliers, and explore unique handmade crafts. Held every Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM in the parking lot of Yorba Linda Friends Church, this vibrant market offers something for everyone. Visitors enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with raffles and vendor showcases. Sign up for news and updates at farmandcraftmarket.com, and follow @yorbalindafarmersmarket on Instagram for event details and special features.
Show Your Love to Brea Restaurants This Month
It's February and love is in the air. Why not show your love to Brea restaurants? Looking for a place to take your sweetie for Valentine’s Day, a spot to watch the big football game, or somewhere to meet up with a friend or business colleague for lunch? Check out the Birch Street Promenade, Brea Downtown, the Brea Mall area, or the Brea Union Plaza east of the freeway for hundreds of great dining options.
Scan to read more
Brea Art Gallery
The Brea Gallery, a 6,500-square-foot contemporary art space will reopen on February 1, 2025. Dedicated to providing ambitious contemporary art exhibitions since 1980, the Gallery enriches the community through educational, aesthetic, and intellectual experiences. Offering four major exhibitions annually, it also features workshops for all ages, artist lectures, live demonstrations, and a curated gift shop. Visit breaartgallery.com to explore opportunities and discover how you can engage with this vibrant arts space. Follow @breagallery on Instagram.
Yorba Linda Library & Cultural Arts Center
The Yorba Linda Library & Cultural Arts Center is a vibrant hub for education, creativity, and community engagement. It offers a state-of-the-art library, interactive programs, art exhibits, and spaces for cultural events. Visitors can enjoy resources for all ages, from children’s storytime to art workshops and public performances. With a mission to inspire learning and creativity, this center enriches Yorba Linda's cultural and intellectual life year-round. Visit ylpl.org for information on monthly activities and events.
Arbotarium & Botanical Gardens at Cal State Fullerton
Nature lovers can escape into a tranquil world of plants at the Cal State Fullerton Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Spanning 26 acres, this botanical haven showcases diverse plant collections from around the world, all while emphasizing sustainability and conservation. Visitors can explore themed gardens, stroll along scenic walking trails, and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Whether attending educational workshops or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, the Arboretum offers a serene retreat for all.
Made Coffee, Yorba Linda
MADE Coffee is one of Orange County's premier coffee shops. They craft artisanal beverages using Counter Culture beans sourced globally, ensuring high-quality flavors. The Yorba Linda shop is cozy and inviting, making it ideal for casual meet-ups and productive work sessions. Coffee lovers come in weekdays from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and weekends from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Visit madecoffeeoc.com for updates and shop merch, and follow them on Instagram @madecoffeeoc.
One of California’s largest and most prestigious academic health systems, UCI Health, is now in your community.
UCI Health — Placentia Linda will deliver the most advanced care for you and your family — helping you live your healthiest life.
ucihealth.org/welcome
ARTICLE BY HEATHER WHITSITT
SUPPORT CHOC BY ATTENDING THE LITTLEST ANGEL GUILD’S SIGNATURE FUNDRAISING EVENT, “CHEERS TO 60 YEARS”
LITTLEST ANGEL GUILD
Lois, CHOC's first resident dog
Tyler & Dr. Renella
What could be better than shopping ‘til you drop for a fantastic cause?
Show your love for the Littlest Angel Guild, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), by attending the 20th annual “Pursenally Yours” signature event, “Cheers to 60 Years.”
“This unique fundraiser will be held at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum in Yorba Linda from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., on April 5. Each $125 per person ticket includes a silent auction featuring beautiful, vintage handbags and themed gift baskets, a gourmet luncheon by White House Catering, and a live auction to inspire guests with opportunities to bid on great trips, big-ticket items, and exciting experiences.”
All proceeds from this enchanting event benefit the CHOC Heart Institute and CHOC’s Resident Dog and Pet Therapy Programs.
No details have gone unplanned in preparation for the highly anticipated Diamond Jubilee celebration fundraiser.
“An integral component of the program is the live auction, meant to enliven our guests with opportunities to bid on great trips, big-ticket items, and exciting experiences.”
Guests will have several chances to score a special sparkler during the event.
TYLER’S JOURNEY WITH CHOC STARTED BEFORE HIS BIRTH WITH DR. RENELLA FROM THE VERY BEGINNING.
“Our guests may enter a Diamond Jubilee Jewelry Drawing. Purchase $20 opportunity tickets for a chance to win one of three pieces of jewelry from our generous local jewelers–Mandel Jewelers and Jeweler’s Touch.”
Each silent and live auction winner’s number will be placed into a drawing for a chance to win an exquisite piece of jewelry designed and donated by David Hayman Jewelers of Yorba Linda. Complimentary valet services will also be provided.
Littlest Angel Guild members have spent endless hours raising funds and awareness for programs and services at CHOC, a pediatric healthcare system serving children and families in Orange County and beyond. Over the years, the Guild has raised $7 million dollars.
Seats are limited, so purchase yours soon!
For ticket information, visit littlestangelguild.com or e.givesmart.com/events/yxZ/
Draperies WHITE’S & MORE
Shop custom window coverings, bedding, and more at White’s Draperies
ARTICLE BY HEATHER WHITSITT
Based on their glowing reviews and repeat business from longtime loyal customers, it’s clear that the team at White’s Draperies loves serving their community–something they’ve done successfully for over 60 years.
Kevin White’s parents, Walter and Phyllis White, started the business in the late 1950s. Kevin took over in 1995. Phyllis still works in the store, assisting customers in creating beautiful window coverings. Marsha lends her sewing and creative talents to round out the team.
Growing up in a close-knit, family business environment, Kevin knows the importance of prioritizing the client experience.
“We are a family-run business and ‘we care’ for our clients. We feel that customer service is a primary quality to have. Our longevity shows how well we take care of our customers.”
In addition to free design advice and in-home estimates, White’s Draperies offers a wide range of products and services.
“We make, sell, and install window coverings–anything from fabric treatments (draperies, sheers, valances, cornice boxes, swags and cascades) to blinds, shades, and shutters.”
If you thought window blinds and shades were pretty straightforward options, you were wrong! White’s provides customers with a variety of options for a custom home aesthetic.
“We do vertical blinds, horizontal blinds, cellular shades, Roman and roller shades, sunscreen shades, panel tracks, and woven woods. You can also have most of the shades or blinds motorized or automated (some can be motorized for tilt only, for example, wood horizontal blinds). Outdoor treatments (roller or sunscreen shades, outdoor draperies) can be motorized, too. Some categories of our motorized products can be programmed to open and close automatically at a certain time of day and night or opened/closed manually from your cell phone or tablet, or by using a remote.” We are Hunter Douglas Distributors.
“Beyond blinds and drapes, we look forward to assisting you with the window coverings of your dreams.”
“We also do bedding (comforters, coverlets, bed skirts), pillows, light upholstery (chair cushions, bench cushions), tablecloths, and table runners. White’s Draperies can assist you with finding the perfect finishing touches for any room in the house and provide options to meet your budget.”
Visit www.whitesdraperies.com/ to learn more.
Love Adventures
Creating Lasting Memories: Meaningful Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day Together
Spending quality time with your significant other on Valentine's Day is a beautiful opportunity to nurture your relationship and create lasting memories. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening or embarking on a new adventure, the day should be about celebrating your bond and deepening your connection.
Here are four options for celebrating Valentine's Day:
Bonfire
at Newport Beach
Add some spark to your Valentine’s Day date night with a beach bonfire! Bring on the relationship sizzle with sand and surf, with a cozy beach bonfire. Fire rings are available on a first-come, first-served basis between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. daily.
Gondola Ride
Private Gondola Cruises
Cruise through spectacular Newport Harbor. Create a memory with that special someone as you glide through quaint canals. A memory that will last forever! Gourmet chocolates & a choice of sparkling cider, still, or sparkling water. Additional wine or champagne options are available. Romantic, relaxing, exclusive.
855 466-3652 | CRUISES@GONDOLA.COM
Gondola Ride in Newport Beach
Bonfire Newport Beach
The most important thing is not the specific activity, but the time spent together. Valentine’s Day serves as a reminder to slow down and carve out meaningful moments in our busy lives. It’s a time to show appreciation, strengthen your emotional bond, and express your love in ways that go beyond words.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to celebrating Valentine’s Day. It’s about creating a day that
reflects the unique connection you share. Whether big or small, the gestures of love—both on Valentine’s Day and every day—are what truly matter. It’s the little things that deepen the connection and show your partner how much they mean to you.
You don’t love someone because they’re perfect, you love them in spite of the fact that they’re not. Jodi Picoult
Huntington Beach
Horseback riding at Horse Play Rentals is located in the Huntington Central Park Equestrian Center. Options include a onehour picnic plus a one-hour trail ride, and a romantic couples ride that includes a onehour trail ride followed by a picnic in the Urban Forest.
18381 GOLDENWEST STREET
WWW.HORSEPLAYRENTAL.COM/
Couples Horseback Riding Excursion Dinner
& Fireworks
A luxury, multi-course dinner to celebrate a special Valentine’s Day meal at JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort’s Tocca Ferro restaurant. After dinner, guests are welcome to continue their evening with cocktails at the hotel’s 11th-floor rooftop bar, Parkestry. A premium spot for Disney’s fireworks show.
Horseback Riding & Romantic Picnic Lunch JW Marriott, Dinner
ARTICLE BY HEATHER WHITSITT
SHOW YOUR LOVE WITH CUSTOMIZED CARE
BRIGHTSTAR CARE OF CA – ANAHEIM/YORBA LINDA PROVIDES IN-HOME CARE SERVICES TO INDIVIDUALS IN NORTH ORANGE COUNTY, WITH A CUSTOMIZED CARE PLAN TO MEET YOUR NEEDS.
Nothing says “love” quite like giving your beloved family members the best possible care when they need it most–at any stage of life.
BrightStar Care offers a wide variety of high-quality services, from in-home care to medical staffing, to meet your loved one’s temporary or long-term needs. As a trusted provider, BrightStar Care of CA – Anaheim/ Yorba Linda serves local areas including Anaheim, Brea, Fullerton, Placentia, and Yorba Linda.
BrightStar Yorba Linda/ Anaheim Office
Happy Birthday!
“We provide the full continuum of home care for people of all ages with the same compassion we’d have for our own families—' A Higher Standard.’”
Leading the way at BrightStar Care are CEO/Owner Peter Ngin, Director of Nursing Laura Garcia, and Business Development Manager Louis Rizzacasa.
Peter brings more than 23 years of experience in marketing, sales, operations, and management for various healthcare and high-technology organizations to the team.
Before beginning his entrepreneurial journey with BrightStar Care, Peter worked for UnitedHealth Group, focusing on Medicare and specializing in Sales & Marketing and Digital operations.
Peter has always been passionate about building businesses and bringing quality healthcare to individuals. He has acted as a caregiver for his mother and younger sister over the years and understands the level of care and compassion individuals and their families need to age safely in place.
Laura is an innovative leader with 27 years of healthcare experience. She is excited to provide her expertise as a nurse leader in patient care for Brightstar Care as she will provide growth and development for the Clinical Team and individualize all plans of care for clients and families.
As the Business Development Manager, Louis is excited to leverage his expertise and enthusiasm to grow the business. In this role, he focuses on networking and presenting “higher standard” solutions to potential clients, empowering them to live their best lives.
BrightStar Team
TYPES OF CARE
“As your loved one’s needs change, the service we offer evolves along with them. Companion Care provides basic support such as light housekeeping, transportation to and from appointments, and spending time with your loved one at home. Personal Care services include assistance with feeding, bathing, mobility, and more.”
DURATION OF CARE
Whether you or a loved one have a chronic condition, short-term disability, or temporary need for in-home support, BrightStar Care provides assistance for any length of time, including 24/7 respite care.
“We do not have a minimum number of hours, and our Director of Nursing conducts a plan of care assessment for each client to ensure we have the appropriate plan specific to the individual.”
Caregivers undergo background checks and drug tests, in addition to RN oversight and regular check-ins with clients to ensure the highest level of care.
Although they’re part of the national BrightStar Care franchise, they are independently owned and locally operated–with a dedication to investing in others as much as possible.
“We believe in giving more–not only to the people we serve but also to our community. We do it through a combination of high-quality, compassionate care, and unparalleled support for our local healthcare system, making our clients’ best lives possible and the community stronger than ever.”
As a demonstration of their commitment to giving back, BrightStar Care works with charitable organizations like Joanie’s Purse and Pink Ribbon Moms. They’ve also contracted with Tri-West Healthcare Alliance to provide in-home care services for veterans, partnering with Veteran Affairs and local clinics. Future plans include connecting with organizations supporting Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia.
“We provide the full continuum of home care for people of all ages with the same compassion we’d have for our own families—' A Higher Standard.’”
https://www.brightstarcare.com/locations/ anaheim-yorba-linda/
Laura, Peter/ CEO & Louis
The Studio Improv: Seniors on Stage
THE STUDIO IMPROV’S “SENIORS ON STAGE” PROGRAM SHINES THE SPOTLIGHT ON TALENTED SENIORS
ARTICLE BY HEATHER WHITSITT
Shirley
Ricel, Darrell
Patricia Anderson, Director
Are you a theater buff or an aspiring actor yearning to showcase your skills?
Check out The Studio Improv, in the heart of Yorba Linda, where passionate performers of all ages channel their love of acting and improv through a variety of engaging, community-driven classes and camps.
Patricia Anderson is the director of The Studio Improv’s beloved “Seniors on Stage” program.
“Our program brings together a remarkable group of seniors who have developed a true passion for theater and performance, and who continue to inspire not only one another but also our community at large. I teach a range of acting classes, including improv, film, theater, and commercial acting for adolescents to senior citizens, but this group of seniors is something truly special!”
For two years now, the group has graced the stage of the Yorba Linda Cultural Arts Center in the Virginia DeLand Theater, delighting audiences with their impressive abilities. Patricia’s cast currently consists of 15 sensational seniors–and she couldn’t be prouder of their development.
“I genuinely believe they are an exceptional group. Each student brings a unique background, many having overcome significant life challenges to pursue their passion for the arts. Witnessing their growth and dedication has been nothing short of inspiring.”
In addition to all that they have learned onstage, the group has developed a special bond in their everyday lives.
“Our class has developed a strong sense of camaraderie that has blossomed into a close-knit theater family. They often connect outside of class, meeting for social gatherings and keeping up with each other through our group texts.”
What resonates most with Patricia about Seniors on Stage is how they’ve enriched one another’s lives as a whole.
“This group represents the spirit of community, resilience, and the joy that comes with trying new things,” she says. “There’s never an age limit on talent or fun!”
Visit The Studio Improv’s Instagram page for the latest updates @thestudioimprov.
James & Bob
Seniors on Stage Team
Shirley, Julie, Pat, Brooke
Jill, Ricel, Kathy Ricel & Darrell
Pat, Jim, Kathy
Brooke (standing), Julie, Maxine, Linda
Bob & Maxine
Richel & Patrick
VALENTINE’S DAY FUNFORKIDS
ENGAGING VALENTINE’S DAY ACTIVITIES TO ENJOY WITH THE FAMILY.
Spread love with fun, creative activities for the whole family!
BREAKFAST FOR THE KIDS
It’s the most important meal of the day. Heart-shaped cinnamon rolls, chocolate-covered strawberries, pancakes with red and pink sprinkles, or Valentine’s pastries from your local bakery are just a few fun Valentine’s breakfast options.
SCAVENGER HUNT
This one takes a bit of planning to pull off, but it is so worth it! Make or print clues leading to different locations around the house. Will there be a prize at each clue location or a grand prize at the end? You choose!
BAKING WITH THE KIDS
Heart-shaped butter cookies, red velvet cupcakes, chocolate-covered strawberries, and peanut butter blossom cookies with the Hershey Kiss in the center to name a few.
READ-ALOUD STORYTIME
There is something about being comfy, cozied up with the kids, and reading a story together that just feels like love for all.
CANDY HEART RELAY
Place a bowl of candy hearts on one side of the room and an empty bowl on the other. Transfer the hearts to the empty bowl by carrying them across the room on a spoon. When time is up, whoever has the most candy hearts in the initial empty bowl wins.
VALENTINE’S MOVIE NIGHT
Any Disney princess movie is a top contender for this movie night selection. Free Rein, “ Valentine’s Day” and True, “Happy Hearts Day”—both on Netflix are options.
BUCKET O’ LOVE
Spread some cheer to a neighbor with a random act of kindness, in the form of a porch-dropped bucket o’ love. Choose a homemade card to make some candy hearts or some goodies you made earlier in the day, and leave them a note, so they know where the items came from.
Reagan’s Creative Journey
BUILDING A BUSINESS WITH CREATIVITY, PASSION, AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT.
One day, while looking for matching bracelets for my mom and me, I visited Inspirations Gift & Home in Yorba Linda. I noticed similar bracelets to the ones I make and decided to ask if I could sell mine in the store. I set up a meeting with Ana, the owner, who explained the responsibilities of showcasing my bracelets—weekly display upkeep, restocking, and managing sales. Ana asked me if I understood these responsibilities. I was so excited about this opportunity I fully committed. Now, I have my section in Inspirations Gift & More and my first month of sales was 100+ bracelets, I could not be more excited! Ana has given me valuable business advice, and the staff has been incredibly encouraging and supportive. I’m learning so much and having a blast sharing my bracelets with the communities!
Inspirations Gift & Home ANNOUNCEMENT
Inspirations Gift & Home is moving to a more spacious and centrally located home!
The current location will remain open until 2/25/2025
The new location will open on 2/1/2025 at 18432 Yorba Linda Blvd, Yorba Linda, CA. 92886
Both locations will operate in February 2025.
Stay tuned for grand opening details!
Reagan Wheaton
My name is Reagan Wheaton and I am 11 years old. I attend Travis Ranch Middle School. I enjoy being creative and making bead bracelets. I like making personalized bracelets for family, friends, and teammates.
I recently completed the Yorba Linda Chamber of Commerce Junior CEO Program which taught me how to run a business. I enjoy playing softball and hanging out with my friends.
Reagan Wheaton
Happy Buyers of Reagan's Bracelets at Inspirations Gift & Home
“My wife has always been active and enjoyed being outdoors.
Due to a sudden stroke, she found herself in a health crisis and required post-acute rehabilitation. She needed 24-hour nursing care, assistance with eating and physical, occupational and speech therapy. For her post-acute needs, we chose Park Vista Skilled Nursing – an established facility located in Fullerton. We had a great experience!”
– Fullerton family member
FEBRUARY 2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JANUARY 21ST
Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite
1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, CA | 9:00 PM
Celebrate with the love of your life, your best pal, your dearest friends, or cherished family members at Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite! Disneyland Park will transform into a celebration of love with unique entertainment, rare characters, specialty food and beverages, shorter attraction wait times, and more. Your ticket includes admission to Disneyland Park as early as 6:00 PM. 1/21-2/13. disneyland.disney.go.com/eventstours/after-dark-sweethearts-nite/
FEBRUARY 1ST
Mother-Daughter
Princess
Tea
4501 Casa Loma Ave, Yorba Linda, CA 92886 | 11:00 AM
Princesses of all ages are invited to experience the royal treatment at the Mother-Daughter Tea! Enjoy a delightful afternoon featuring lunch, tea, crafts, and a special enchanting storytime. This magical event offers a perfect opportunity for mothers and daughters to create cherished memories while enjoying a regal experience. Cost is $20 per person. 11am-1pm yorbalindaca.gov/calendar.aspx
FEBRUARY 1ST
Brea Improv
180 South Brea Blvd. Brea, CA 92821 | 7:00 PM
Don't miss an exciting month of comedy at Brea Improv! Kick-off February with Ari Shaffir’s The Farewell Tour later dates in February feature Sophie Buddle, Jamie Lissow, Akaash Sing, Jonasi, Maria Bamford, and Ga-
reth Reynolds. Be sure to check out Nurse John’s The Short Staffed Tour February 13-16. Get your tickets now at improv.com/brea or call (714) 482-0700.
FEBRUARY 7TH
The Carole King Musical
Curtis Theatre 1 Civic Center Circle. Brea, CA 92821 | 8:00 PM
Curtis Theatre & Southgate Productions present Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. This inspiring show follows the life of Carole Klein, a Brooklyn songwriter who became the legendary Carole King. Featuring iconic hits like "You've Got a Friend" and "Natural Woman," the Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning musical tells the unforgettable story of King’s rise to fame. February 7-23. Visit ci.brea.ca.us/1594/ Curtis-Theatre or call 714-990-7722.
FEBRUARY 15TH
4th Annual Eastvale Lantern Festival
7447 Scholar Way, Eastvale, CA 92880 | 11:00 AM
Celebrate the Year of the Snake at the 4th Annual Eastvale Lantern Festival! Enjoy two days of cultural performances, tasty street food, artisan vendors, and family-friendly fun. Experience lion dances, martial arts, and interactive games, photo opportunities under vibrant lanterns and traditional decorations. The Family Fun Zone offers activities for all ages, from crafts to games. Saturday -Sunday. This event is free. eastvaleca.gov/ community/community-events
FEBRUARY 28TH
Daddy Daughter Dance
4501 Casa Loma Ave, Yorba Linda, CA 92886 | 6:30 PM
Dads and daughters ages 4-12 are invited to enjoy a memorable night out with fun activities! The event includes dinner, dancing, and exciting games, offering a chance for dads and daughters to create lasting memories together. It's a perfect opportunity for quality time and special moments! 630 pm-830pm. Cost is $20 per person. yorbalindaca.gov/calendar.aspx
DEEP CLEAN & SAFE FOR YOUR FAMILY
THE SCOTTSDALE LURE OF
The endless skies of blue are interrupted only by cacti rising majestically from the ground, arms reaching skyward, and palm trees, which are often adorned by lights that twinkle when the sun sets. There are vistas of open desert, rising mountains, and even the lush green of the locale’s many golf courses. And, of course, there are the vibrant shopping, dining, art, and event scenes, too.
Scottsdale is a city located in Metro Phoenix in Arizona, which as a whole is nicknamed “The Valley of the Sun” for its more than 330 days of sun each year—one of the reasons the area is a draw for visitors. With few rainy days, it’s easy to plan your daily activities without worry. Yes, though, the summer gets hot. But the rest of the year? Perfection.
Scottsdale is a mix of a resort destination, city, and suburbs, with more open desert the further north you venture. To the south is Downtown Scottsdale—also known as Old Town Scottsdale—which is a mix of old Southwestern charm
BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN
(including the legendary cowboy saloon, Rusty Spur Saloon); modern eateries from famed chefs; lots of shopping at small boutiques and specialty shops; the Arts District , which is filled with art galleries; and even tasting rooms from Arizona wineries located along the famed Scottsdale Wine Trail
Nearby is Scottsdale Fashion Square , one of the nation’s premier shopping destinations. While you’ll find many usual retailers there, there are also more than 40 luxury brands, including Christian Louboutin, Bottega Veneta, and Louis Vuitton.
Heading north are open-air shopping destinations Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons , which sit across the street from each other. Take the afternoon or evening to stroll through, exploring the shops, restaurants, and activity destinations such as the indoor mini-golf destination Puttshack . What else is there to see and do? Plenty.
FROM RELAXATION TO SHOPPING TO GOLF TO SIGHTSEEING, THIS DESTINATION HAS IT ALL
PLAY
Like golf? There are more than 200 golf courses in the Scottsdale area. Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, there is a course for you. One of the most popular in the area is the TPC Scottsdale as it is the locale of the WM Phoenix Open, the most-attended golf tournament in the world.
For most of the year, Scottsdale boasts warm temperatures, making spending a day splashing in a pool a perfect choice. Many local resorts have pool areas that feature fun extras such as water slides, lazy rivers, and even a cooled sand beach. And even if you’re not an on-site guest, you can often purchase a day pass to be on-site through ResortPass.com.
Of course, there’s also plenty of outdoor recreation in Scottsdale. Pinnacle Peak in North Scottsdale is a popular mountain to hike (as is the iconic Camelback Mountain, which is located in nearby Phoenix), and the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt is a park and trail system spread over 11 miles. Kids love McCormickStillman Railroad Park , which boasts a small-scale train that circles the park and plenty of play areas.
A destination filled with numerous attractions is A rizona Boardwalk , a center that includes Butterfly Wonderland , OdySea Aquarium , Ripley’s Believe It or Not! , Museum of Illusions , and more.
CULTURE
The beauty of Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert led famed architect, Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959), to build Taliesin West , his winter home and desert laboratory, in a mountainside in East Scottsdale. Today, there are daily tours of the UNESCO World Heritage site, and events are offered often.
However, Wright’s architecture isn’t the only art in the area. Beyond the Arts District in Downtown Scottsdale, there is public art all around the city, from sculptures to murals, so definitely keep your eyes open!
There are also museums such as Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West , a Smithsonian Affiliate, which showcases items from the Greater Western region, and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art , affectionately known as SMoCA.
On Thursday evenings, there’s a free public ArtWalk in the Arts District, where galleries stay open later. Wander the streets and galleries, often against a backdrop of live music and even artist appearances.
Bill McIntosh
DINING AND NIGHTLIFE
From mom-and-pop restaurants to those run by James Beard Award-winning chefs and celebrity chefs, Scottsdale has it all. There’s Luna by Giada , by famed chef and TV personality Giada de Laurentiis; Uchi by James Beard Award-winning chef Tyson Cole; FnB by James Beard Award-winning chef Charleen Badman; and The Americano, which is helmed by celebrity chef and TV personality Beau MacMillan. Other local favorites are chef Joey Maggiore’s new The Italiano; Postino, for bruschetta and wine; Ocean 44 for seafood; and Old Town Tortilla Factory—which is set in a historic 75-year-old adobe home—for Southwestern with a Mexican twist.
If you’re looking for a night out, Downtown Scottsdale has the biggest concentration of clubs and bars. The walkable area has Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row, El Hefe , Boondocks Patio & Grill , and many others.
If a more upscale lounge is your scene, check out the new Tell Your Friends speakeasy in North Scottsdale, located under The Americano restaurant.
EVENTS
Scottsdale is also known as a destination for events that draw attendees from around the world. Depending on your hobbies, time your visit to coincide with the one that interests you most. Golf lovers (and those who like to party) head to Scottsdale for the popular PGA tournament WM Phoenix Open , dubbed “The Greatest Show on Grass,” also includes concerts with wellknown musical acts. Auto enthusiasts flock here for Auto Week , which includes the famous Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction . In late February and through March, the MLB’s Spring Training takes over the Valley, with Scottsdale Stadium becoming the home of the San Francisco Giants. There’s showmanship at the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show and rivalry on the field at the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Classic , which draws players from around the world and features polo matches, a fashion show, parties, and more. And in 2025, Art Week , the next big event in the art world, debuts in Scottsdale.
NEARBY
While there’s so much to do, see, and experience in Scottsdale proper, there’s also much to see nearby. Make sure to experience the Musical Instrument Museum (affectionately known as the MIM), which is the world’s only global instrument museum. Desert Botanical Garden features an array of desert plants, and Phoenix Art Museum has an impressive collection of art. And, of course, the Phoenix Zoo is a perfect place for both kids and adults alike.
