Los Angeles August 2019

A LI V E EDI T I ON

#98

MAKE U O Y L IT TIL E C A F

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MOONLIGHT ROLLERWAY, INC.

SADDLEROCK RANCH 31727 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265 www.rosedayla.com | @roseday_la

CELEBRITY CELEBRATIONS • Jeremy Renner, Jamie Foxx, Tiffany Haddish, G-Eazy, Ashlee Simpson and her husband, Evan Ross, were some of the celebrities who made an appearance at the event, welcoming the summer kickoff with brightly colored attire and sleek shades.

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Written By: Deanna Nguyen Photographed By: Jason Lowrie & Marc Patrick

Summer doesn’t start until National Rosé Day comes around every second Saturday of June, and for the last two years, the celebrations came into full swing at Rosé Day L.A. Presented

By Corkcicle. With over 4,000 guests in attendance at Saddlerock Ranch in Malibu, the event boasted celebrity guests, luxury and art brands and a whole lot of rosé. Delicious food pairings from gourmet food trucks were hand-selected by Iron Chef Marc Forgione, and celebrity DJs Pamela Tick and Brody Jenner kept the atmosphere energetic with their live sets. One of

the highlights was the “Million Rose Petal Drop” from a helicopter, which colored the venue in pink. Nonprofit charities involved at the event were Charity: Water and The Art of Elysium.

The celebration was orchestrated by an incredible team of talented production and hospitality veterans: Ben Biscotti of 1iota Productions, Tony Schubert of Event Eleven, Iron Chef Marc Forgione, Bobby Rossi of Bungalow 8 & Rec Room, Sylvain Bitton, JT Torregiani and David Jarrett of Warwick. “We are thrilled with the success of this year’s festival and are excited about the trajectory of the brand. We look forward to the coming years and creating more special experiences on National Rosé Day for LA to enjoy!” exclaimed Biscotti.

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Contributor Call Out PHOTO BY:

STEFANIE PARKINSON stefanieparkinson.com stefanieparkinsonphoto.com @sp_foto | @parkinson_photo Feature - Veg(gie) Vs. Reg(ular) MOD 8985 Venice Blvd, Ste K, Culver City, CA 90034 424.345.9282 | modpizza.com DATE TAKEN: MAY 1, 2019

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THE TEAM ERIK HALE Publisher + Founder erik@localemagazine.com | @local_e ASHLEY SMITH COO + Co-Founder ashley@localemagazine.com | @ashleyelainexo REILLY HEINE Art Director + Co-Owner reilly@localemagazine.com | @localereilly | @reillyek EDITORIAL ANNIE KIM Senior Editor annie@localemagazine.com | @akorakim JORDAN NISHKIAN Editor jordan.n@localemagazine.com | @wordsbyjordan DEANNA NGUYEN Editor deanna@localemagazine.com | @deefordaydreams

RENEE CALDER Production Manager renee@localemagazine.com | @reneecalder DESIGN COLIN GREY VOIGT Graphic Designer colin@localemagazine.com | @colingrey SALES & MARKETING MIKE TODD SMITH Vice President of Sales & Marketing mts@localemagazine.com | @miketoddsmith JASON KOSKY Sr. Market Manager jason@localemagazine.com | @locale_jason SCOTT MABRY Market Manager scott@localemagazine.com | @locale_scott KEVIN DROLET Market Manager kevin@localemagazine.com | @kevindro BRIANNA ROMANO Partnerships + Marketing Director brianna@localemagazine.com | @briannaontheweekend LAUREN DURAN Partnerships + Marketing Assistant lauren@localemagazine.com | @laurenkduran DOMINIQUE GILPIN Partnerships + Marketing Assistant dominique@localemagazine.com | @dominiquegilpin JEN WHITAKER Event Manager jen@localemagazine.com | @jenwhitaker FINANCE VALERIE KERR Accountant accounting@localemagazine.com DISTRIBUTION RICK RAMIREZ & ROBERT JONES

THE CONTRIBUTORS WRITERS AMEIHIA TURINGAN iridescentglimmer.wordpress.com | @ameihia ANDREA NAVARRO theandreamarie.com | @thedreamarie ASHLEE POLAREK inspirationfromexploration.wordpress.com | @thegreatbigwonder AUBREY FREITAS @a_freit | DASH FINLEY @morlokmovie | DIEGO E. GAXIOLA @d.gax ELISE EDWARDS @luxeangelesmom | TAYLOR HAYNES about.me/taylorhaynes | @tlrhyn GABRIELA MUNGARRO gabrielamungarro.com | @gaby_mungarro JAMEE LIND @jameeleelind | JESSICA YOUNG @racingcupcakes KANDACE CORNELL kandacecornellcopy.com | @lachicamericaine KERI BRIDGWATER keribridgwater.com | @littlesundaysun MAYANDRA ROBBINS @mayajro | MICHELLE JACO @theycallme_mj NEAL HRUBY datethecity.com | @date.the.city | @nealhruby | RUPERT DEBRINCAT @thatdogrupert PHOTOGRAPHERS ANDREA DOMJAN andreadomjanphotography.com | @andrea_domjan_photography ANGEL MANUEL angelmanuelphotography.com | @angelmanuelphoto CARLOS VALLE vallephoto.com | @vallephoto | CHARLIE CHIPMAN charliechipman.com | @charliechipman CELINE HAEBERLY celinehaeberly.myportfolio.com | @celinehaeberly DANIELLE JACKSON daniellejacksonphotography.com | @daniellejackson_photography DON LUPO lupofoto.com | @donlupofoto | ERIK ISAKSON erikisakson.com | @erikisakson JAMES TRAN jtranphotos.com | @jtran_photos JARED SCHLACHET AND JOE MAGNANI jsquaredphotography.com | @j2pix JOSIE GONZALES photos.byjosiegonzales.com | @josgonzales KAMBRIA FISCHER kambriafischer.com | @kambria_fischer_photo LEE WALTERS & JEN STROMAN www.leewaltersphotography.com @leewaltersphotography | @aperfectbitephotography MARIVIC DIVINA marivicdivina.com | MATT MISISCO mattmisiscostudios.com | @mattmisiscostudios MICHAEL WESLEY polarizedstudios.com | @polarizedstudios NICK ISABELLA nickisabella.photography | @nickisabella.photography STEFANIE PARKINSON stefanieparkinson.com | stefanieparkinsonphoto.com @sp_foto | @parkinson_photo TAE KWON taekwonphoto.com | @taekwonphoto STEFANIE VILLERS catchingcali.com | @svillers | @catchingcaliphoto STYLISTS DEVON RIESENBERG AND FELA BARNETT sparkleandtoast.com | @sparkleandtoast MOTOKO HONJO CLAYTON motokomakeup.com | @makeupbymotoko SARAH NEARIS sarahnearis.com | @sarahnearisstyle TRACI GARRETT traci-garrett.com | @tracigarretthair

LOCALE MAGAZI N E 2755 Bristol St Ste 295, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 • 949.436.8910 • www.localemagazine.com • @localemagazine • #localemagazine • *For full information on our team & contributors go to www.localemagazine.com/about

PRODUCTION KALYNN NGUYEN Production Manager @kalynncnguyen

®

Editor's Note 122 Profile

SALT + COCO

As the diverse layers of Los Angeles intertwine in the rays of the summer sunshine, there’s no place I’d rather be than here. Since I’m from LA, people will assume that my enthusiasm for this city is biased. But as our team carefully curated thoughts into ideas that have become the life you see within these pages, the greatness of Los Angeles can never be overlooked. The city’s ceaseless hustle scintillates with the epitome of humanity as we know it— masked in perplexity, grown in adversity and molded by stories of love, life, passion, purpose, food and adventure.

Our journey through this issue starts off with stories of professional athletes in our Alive Experts (pg. 49) who inspire us to persevere through the hard moments in life by focusing on the end goal. We’ll then meet the guardian angel in our Artist Spotlight (pg. 68) who paints the walls of the city with magnificent wings as a conscious reminder to find your “true and divine self.”

From there, set sail with the masterful flavors of globalized Japanese-Italian soul food in our First Bite (pg. 80) and finish it off with our Sweet Spots (pg. 88) guide to the trendiest desserts in LA—you can thank us later. For the gin lover who needs a break from the crowded bars, our Hendrickʼs Profile (pg. 76) was conceptualized with you and your libation desires in mind.

Browse through with a smile in our That’s What He Barked (pg. 116) as we take advice from this Insta-famous French bulldog on where to eat, play and stay in Southern California. Next, learn how you can fight for the greater good with the founders of Salt + Coco (pg.122) and bookmark the pages of Date the City (pg. 138) as you’re guaranteed to find love with these original summer date ideas.

As we continue to cycle through life, I urge you to pause, reflect and take a moment to reach out to those you love because, despite our efforts, fate will always have the last say in the matter.

Recently, one of my dear high school mentors, Dennis Tung, unexpectedly passed away. He left behind his beautiful wife, Elaine, and his two brilliant children, Connor and Keira.

I am dedicating the makings of this issue to him and his family.

In every aspect of my life—from patiently explaining the inner workings of algebra (my least favorite subject) during my younger teen years to helping me navigate the complex world of adulthood—Dennis always made the extra effort to guide me in the right direction. He possessed all the elements of an exceptional teacher and mentor and, most importantly, a great human being. Dennis, wherever you are, I love you. I miss you. Thank you for everything.

With love,

ANNIE KIM Senior Editor annie@localemagazine.com | @akorakim

®

All rights reserved © 2019, the entire contents of this publication are protected by copyright. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted in any forms or by any means without express written prior permission of the copyright owner.

MAKING ISSUE

LOCAL E M AGAZI NE 949.436.8910 info@localemagazine.com

the

Locale Magazine is printed by SOUTHWEST OFFSET PRINTING 13650 Gramercy Pl Gardena, CA 90249 310.323.0112 www.southwestoffset.com

COVER

Photographed By: Jared Schlachet and Joe Magnani, jsquaredphotography.com | @j2pix Model: Jeannie Mai, @thejeanniemai, Hello Hunnay with Jeannie Mai | @hellohunnayshow Location: Moonlight Rollerway, Inc. 5110 San Fernando Rd, Glendale, CA 91204 818.241.3630 | www.moonlightrollerway.com Written By: Annie Kim, @akorakim Styled By: Sarah Nearis, sarahnearis.com | @sarahnearisstyle Hair By: Traci Garrett, traci-garrett.com | @tracigarretthair Makeup By: Motoko Honjo Clayton, motokomakeup.com | @makeupbymotoko Bodysuit Provided By: H&M, www.hm.com Coat Provided By: American Apparel, www.americanapparel.com Tights Provided By: Shelly’s Dance and Costume, www.shellysdanceandcostume.com Earrings Provided By: Jennifer Fisher, jenniferfisherjewelry.com

BODYSUIT AND SHORTS PROVIDED BY: Elisabetta Franchi www.elisabettafranchi.com BRA PROVIDED BY: Meshki www.meshki.com.au EARRINGS PROVIDED BY: EF Collection www.efcollection.com ROLLER SKATES PROVIDED BY: Moxi Skates www.moxiskates.com

On the day of Jeannie Mai’s cover shoot, talented Wardrobe Stylist Sarah Nearis decorated one of the tables at the resting area of Moonlight Rollerway with a loud selection of jewelry and accessories. Sitting an arm’s length away was a neatly lined collection of roller skates and long socks that could be part of a “Taste the Rainbow” Skittles campaign.

O

THE TEAM

Jared Schlachet

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Joe Magnani

Annie Kim

Sarah Nearis

Traci Garrett

Motoko Honjo Clayton

As Mai’s skilled beauty team, Makeup Stylist Motoko Honjo Clayton and Hair Stylist Traci Garrett, harmoniously danced around her—twirling and tucking a misplaced strand here, swiping a little lipcloss there—the star divided her attention between taking business calls, detailing social media direction, scheduling an appointment with her nail lady and checking off other miscellaneous items on her busy to-do list. Inbetween the chaos, Mai never failed to express her gratitude, a warm “please” and “thank you,” each time anyone did anything for her.

Settled patiently in the corner, the clothing rack—a series of

jackets, dresses, leotards, bottoms and tops—displayed valiant cuts, showy designs, shimmery sequins and an array of metallic, bright and neon colors. Mirrored after Mai’s individuality, the selected wardrobe carefully crafted by Nearis were all statement pieces that emulated the core of bold energy and fierce ardor.

When I asked Mai, the VietnameseAmerican television personality star, what gave her the confidence to pursue a career in the entertainment industry—especially since there weren’t many Asians on the screen to look up to during her younger years—her response filled my Chinese-Korean American heart with immense pride.

“Honestly, just that—the fact that I didn’t see many Asians on the screen growing up. I’m so freaking proud of it. We’re dope. We’re so multi-talented...and we carry so many different giftings that plug back into the community,” Mai replied. “It’s actually exactly what the American spirit needs, and I know for damn sure that it was what television and entertainment needed—a funky ass Asian girl like Jeannie Mai.”

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TA BL E CO NTEN T S of

AUGUST 2019

THIS ISSUE: ALIVE 56

68

KARMA

Artist Spotlight

Ride in Style With the 2020 KARMA Revero GT

Colette Miller Connects the World With Her Global Angel Wings Project

58

70

Profile

Humanitarian Feature

REVVIN’ UP THE REVERO

HEARTS AND CRAFTS

NanoCraft CBD Founders Todd Erwin and Stefan McKellar Are Making CBD NBD

63 Guide

GET LOST IN LA LA LAND

WINGIN’ IT

PLANET PLASTIC OR PLANET EARTH?

49 Experts

BLOOD, SWEAT AND TEARS

Local Professionals Show Us What Sets Them Apart From the Rest

Surfrider Foundation of Huntington Beach and Seal Beach Chapter Spreads Awareness Instead of Waste

See the City of Angels From a Different Angle

KEN GUSHI @kengushi Photoshoot Location: BOOST BRIGADE HQ 9 Vanderbilt Irvine, CA 92618 949.588.8300 www.shop.boostbrigade.com

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ERIK ISAKSON

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TA BL E CO NTEN T S of

AUGUST 2019

97

132 Foodie

Escape

76

128

Profile

Feature

This Hendrick’s Brand Ambassador Is #Ginning

Harrah’s Resort SoCal Has Never Been Funner

THAT’S THE SPIRIT!

WELCOME TO FUNNER, CALIFORNIA

122

80 First Bite

SETTING SAIL

Blackship Crosses the Seas to Bring Globalized Soul Food to West LA

82 Feature

B.Y.O.B.

Be Your Own Bartender With These Easy, Breezy Libations

88 Feature

SWEET CREAMS ARE MADE OF THIS

A Roundup of Summer’s Sweetest and Trendiest Treats in Los Angeles

94 Two Things We Love

SEA IT AND BELIEVE IT

Shoppe 106 Feature

GET TO THE POINT

(X)7TH HEAVEN

BMW’s New Assistant Features Makes the X7 an Absolute Dream

136 Pro Tips

LIVE BY DESIGN

BoConcept’s Stephanie Duval Shares How to Integrate Modern Design Into Your Home

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138

Profile

Feature

This Sister Duo’s Future Is so Bright, They Gotta Wear Shades

Date the City Plans Your Next Outings in OC, LA and SD

A SAINT IN THE MAKING

DATE THE CITY

116 That’s What He Barked

RUPERT KNOWS BEST

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122

Feature

Profile

Tacos, Burgers and Pizza Go Head-to-Head in This Meat Versus Plant-Based Showdown

Founders Pauline Le and Vivian Le Advocate Sustainability Through Their Swimwear

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Feature

A Self-Care and Shop Guide to The Point

Executive Chef Austin Cobb Shares His Favorite Dishes of the Sea

VEG(GIE) VS. REG(ULAR)

132

This Insta-Famous Pup Is Living Life Unleashed

SALT + COCO

CHECK OUT EXTENDED STORIES AND MORE ON OUR WEBSITE AT Localemagazine.com

LOCALENDAR HEAT UP YOUR SUMMER WITH THE HOTTEST EVENTS IN LA WRITTEN BY: GABRIELA MUNGARRO

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HOLLYWOOD STARGAZING Ends August 27

¢ Soak up some fun and make time to catch your favorite flick while you still can! Escape the heat at the acclaimed Mr. C Hotel in Beverly Hills and partake in Poolside Cinema where you can watch a film with dinner, crafted cocktails, freshly popped popcorn and sweets. www.mrcbeverlyhills.com/ happenings

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October 26

October 4-6

STRUT YOUR MUTT ¢ Strut your mutt at

this dog walk and fundraiser that unites dog lovers from across the country to help save the lives of homeless pets. You can also show your support and join the movement by volunteering! www.bestfriends.org/events/ strut-your-mutt

IT’S OK TO BE EXTRA ¢ Calling all avocado

lovers! Get ready for a day filled with food, live music and the world’s largest vat of guacamole at the Avocado Festival!

Celebrate LA’s avocado history and enjoy endless avocado dishes at this free festival. If this sounds like a dream come true, then this is the event for you. www.avofest.com

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WATCH IT: CHAPTER TWO IN LUXURY September 6

¢ Get tickets to watch the much-awaited sequel, IT: Chapter Two at Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas with reclining leather seats and a full bar! We highly recommend the Zebra Popcorn to satisfy those movie munchies. You don’t want to “clown around” while watching this horror classic. www.cinepolisusa.com

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HAVE A NICE (VAMPIRE) WEEKEND October 2

¢ Known for hits such as “Unbelievers,” “Diane Young,” “This Life” and “Harmony Hall,” Vampire Weekend always puts on a lively show! Get ready to jam out as the band will rock the stage at the Hollywood Bowl for the band’s Father of the Bride tour with Tinariwen and Richard Pictures supporting the band for the night. www.hollywoodbowl.com

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SUN’S OUT, GEEK OUT October 11-13

www.comicconla.com

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October 31

August 31-September 2

PEEK-A-BOO! ¢ Stop by West

Hollywood for the famous Halloween Carnaval where live music and DJ sets, killer costumes and tons of local eats will fill Santa Monica Boulevard for a memorable (and spooky) night out!

www.visitwesthollywood.com

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POP AT THE FAIR

August 30-September 22 ¢ It’s that time of year

again where summer hits LA and brings with it the famous LA County Fair.

This year the fair “goes pop,” and special guests will include Pitbull and George Lopez. www.lacountyfair.com

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PARTY AT THE BEACH ¢ Summer calls for beach fun! Spend Labor Day weekend at the Fiesta Hermosa where beach vibes are in full swing with tasty food, art from over 250 artisans, a beer and wine garden and live music. fiestahermosa.net

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MILK THAT MONEY September 28

¢ You’ve seen her popular Netflix specials, but here’s your chance to finally see Ali Wong live on The Milk & Money tour, and laugh the night away at none other than one of LA’s best venues, The Wiltern. www.wiltern.com

Photos - Mr. C Beverly Hills | Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

¢ Forget trying to figure out what you’re going to be for Halloween— it’s time to start planning your favorite cosplay and prepare for one of the biggest pop culture events to hit LA! Los Angeles ComicCon is your gateway to selfies with cosplayers, events, panels and meet-and-greets.

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WELCOME THE FULL HARVEST MOON September 14

OPA!

October 4-6

Autumn Moon Festival returns to LA and livens the streets of Chinatown with music, street food, desserts and drinks. You’ll also have the chance to do some stargazing with telescopes supplied by the Griffith Observatory.

¢ Éla na fas! Visit the annual three-day Greek Festival in LA co-hosted

by Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, and join in on the largest celebration of authentic Greek dancing, food and wine at the renowned Saint Sophia Cathedral. Gyro in for a treat!

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Ends October 13

October 27

October 13

¢ The annual Mid-

www.chinatownla.com

START FROM THE BEGINNING ¢ Spend the day

immersing yourself with art at this unique expo with over 250 rare artwork pieces from the influential German art school Bauhaus at the Getty Center and see the school’s beginnings. www.getty.edu

Photos - Aids Walk LA: Donna F. Aceto | Getty Center Bauhaus: © Estate Erich Mrozek | Los Angeles Korean Festival Foundation

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EMBRACE THE BEAUTY ¢ Don’t miss the chance

to check out the latest trends in the hair and beauty industry, and get your tickets to this amazing expo with over 500 exhibitors at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

10times.com/hair-beauty-bn

www.lagreekfest.com

GET IN LINE FOR FOOD AND WINE

¢ Taste the finest wines that SoCal has to offer with an array of delectable food created by some of LA’s most talented chefs at the 4th annual Westside Food & Wine Festival. The event receives donations for Westside Food Bank. www.eventbrite.com

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WALK WITH PURPOSE October 20

¢ For those looking to

lend support while also getting active, AIDS Walk Los Angeles is for you! Soak in the lively streets of LA and join the 6.2-mile fundraising walk to help fight HIV/ AIDS. Enjoy the live performances and food!

Show your support and help raise funds for an important cause. www.aidswalkla.org

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CELEBRATE THE HALLYU WAVE September 26-29

¢ Annyeong Haseyo!

This event has been celebrating Korean culture since 1974, and since then, the Los

Angeles Korean Festival has become a tradition among Angelenos and tourists for its flavorful street food, artisanal goods from more than 150 vendors, martial arts and K-pop performers. www.lakoreanfestival.org

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COUNT THE FRIDAYS Ends August 30

¢ For anyone with food

truck fever, you’ll be wanting to work up an appetite. Final Fridays is here at last! Don’t miss out on the fun and grab a bite to eat from multiple food trucks with a changing lineup at the Rose Bowl this summer!

For Final Fridays, come for the food but stay for the moonbounce, outdoor games and stadium tours.

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FIL-UP WITH FOOD October 2019

¢ Eat your way through the Fil-Angeleno Festival with over 30 participating local vendors offering some of the best bites LA has to offer. Pair it with a cool, refreshing drink! fahmla.com/eatplaymove

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EAT | SEE | HEAR Ends September 14

¢ Go outdoors this summer and eat, see, hear at this dog-friendly movie event series featuring food trucks and local bands. The event will screen cult classics and new hits on a giant inflatable screen. www.eatseehear.com

www.eventbrite.com

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NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY

Fire Power THE STATION 19 STAR SHARES ALL HER FAVORITE LA HOT SPOTS

“I start off the week trying to be as healthy as possible with lunch at M Café in Hollywood.”

EXPERT: Danielle Savre CREDENTIALS: Actress

MONDAY ¢ I start off the week trying to be as healthy as possible with lunch at M Café in Hollywood. It’s the first macrobiotic restaurant in LA! I crave the Macro Bowl with salmon and pair it with a delicious pressed juice. www.mcafedechaya.com

TUESDAY ¢ Before [a weekday movie] screening at ArcLight, I’ll indulge at Salt’s Cure with curry crusted salmon, avocado citrus salad and carrots with date relish, then drink it down with a Coal Miner’s Daughter, one of the best gin drinks ever. www.arclightcinemas.com www.saltscure.com

WEDNESDAY ¢ To get my vegan fix for the week, I’ll stop in at SunCafe for the one and only—still can’t seem to replicate it at home—Coffee Date Shake. This is so filling that I don’t need anything else in the morning. www.suncafe.com

THURSDAY ¢ Thursday night is a girls’ night out at Zinque on Melrose for some tapas. After that, we

head to Breakroom 86, a fun bar with alcoholic popsicles, ‘80s dance performances and (if you’re feeling adventurous) some private room karaoke. www.lezinque.com www.breakroom86.com

FRIDAY ¢ Once filming wraps, it’s time to get the weekend started! I’ll take the subway to downtown to devour one (possibly two) Kaisen sushi rolls at Mrs. Fish.

Drink it down with a glass of Japanese whisky! www.mrsfish.com

SATURDAY ¢ I love having a little brunch with friends at Quality Food & Beverage. The menu is huge and you can’t go wrong, but don’t forget to order the homestyle Buttermilk Biscuits with jam! qualityfoodandbeverage.com/home

SUNDAY ¢ While heading out to Venice Beach to soak up some vitamin D, I stop in at TOMS on Abbot Kinney. It has a great little secret café that most people miss. I’ll order the Lavender Latte with almond milk. www.toms.com/toms-roasting-co

DANIELLE SAVRE @dsavre Photoshoot Location: SALT’S CURE 1155 N Highland Ave Los Angeles, CA 90038 323.465.7258 www.saltscure.com

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PHOTO BY: Tae Kwon

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY

Kale Yeah!

THIS PRODUCER AND ACTRESS LOVES EATING RIGHT WITH VEGAN BITES

EXPERT: Salli Richardson Whitfield CREDENTIALS: Producer and Actress

MONDAY ¢ When I’m heading home, I always drop by one of my favorite restaurants: SunCafe. It has a super-chill outdoor patio and a great selection of raw and vegan food. The Legendary Kale Colossus salad is to die for. www.suncafe.com

TUESDAY ¢ Once you live in the valley, it’s very easy to stay away from town, but whenever my manager and I get together, we hit Gracias Madre. Try the Young Coconut Ceviche—it’s delightful! www.graciasmadreweho.com

WEDNESDAY ¢ Once a week, I try to give my body a break from food and do a juice cleanse. Kreation Organic Juicery in Toluca Lake is worth the travel. Try the protein power drink before or after a workout—it is delicious! www.kreationjuice.com

THURSDAY ¢ So what do you do when it’s a Thursday night, you have a hungry vegetarian family and you don’t feel like cooking? You pull up Postmates and order Veggie Grill! It’s fast food for us healthy people.

FRIDAY ¢ O’cadola Restaurant in Sherman Oaks has become one of my husband and my new vegan restaurant finds.

Their vegan bacon mac ‘n’ cheese, barbecue jackfruit sliders and smoked gouda Impossible Burgers are so good, you won’t believe it’s not the real thing. www.ocadola.com

SATURDAY ¢ Saturday can get pretty crazy for our family, so that means pizza time. By far the best vegan pizza I have ever had is at MidiCi in Sherman Oaks. It has a great atmosphere, and they have fabulous non-vegan pizza, too. www.mymidici.com

SUNDAY ¢ Sunday is family time for us.

I have wonderful vegetarian kids and a vegan husband who beg for my kale greens, mashed sweet potatoes, smoked cauliflower and honey cornbread. Then we play a good old-fashioned game of Monopoly.

www.veggiegrill.com

SALLI RICHARDSON WHITFIELD @sallirichwhit Photoshoot Location: GRACIAS MADRE 8905 Melrose Ave West Hollywood, CA 90069 323.978.2170 www.graciasmadreweho.com

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PHOTO BY: Tae Kwon

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY

Ditch Your Day Job POPULAR PODCASTER CATHY HELLER SHOWS US WHERE TO GO INSTEAD OF OUR DAY JOB

EXPERT: Cathy Heller CREDENTIALS: Host, Don’t Keep Your Day Job

MONDAY ¢ I love kicking off Monday with some bold flavors and Mexican food. I like to go to Gracias Madre ‘cause they’re organic and vegan, but the flavor is always spot-on. The Enchiladas Verde with cashew crema is super yummy. www.graciasmadreweho.com

TUESDAY ¢ Pat’s is my go-to for business lunches. Pat’s Restaurant is an all-Kosher dining experience with a Cal-Italian cuisine. Their chocolate chip bread pudding soufflé is to die for!

www.patsrestaurantandcatering.com

WEDNESDAY ¢ I try not to drink too much coffee, but when it’s Hump Day, who am I kidding?

I’ll make a typical stop at Undergrind Café. They have all sorts of delicious lattes: Purple Rain, London Fog and Green Dragon, to name a few. www.undergrindcafe.com

THURSDAY ¢ On Thursdays, I treat myself to a blow-out since

“At Casa Del Mar, I get to eat while overlooking the Santa Monica Pier and the Pacific Ocean. The scenery is absolutely gorgeous— the perfect way to unwind.”

the weekend is rapidly approaching! El Salon of Beverly Hills always has the best service and ambiance. www.website.elsalonbh.com

FRIDAY ¢ On Fridays, I try not to load my work plate too much, so I’ll head over to Verve Coffee. We had their Co-founder Colby Barr share the origin story on my podcast (hint hint: listen to that episode!). www.vervecoffee.com

SATURDAY ¢ Weekends call for ocean views. At Casa Del Mar, I get to eat while overlooking the Santa Monica Pier and the Pacific Ocean. The scenery is absolutely gorgeous—the perfect way to unwind. www.hotelcasadelmar.com

SUNDAY ¢ I can never get enough of a good comedy show. Largo LA is home to big-name comics, and my husband and I usually go here for date nights. It’s the perfect way to end the weekend. www.largo-la.com

DON’T KEEP YOUR DAY JOB dontkeepyourdayjob.com @cathy.heller Photoshoot Location: TERRAZZA LOUNGE 1910 Ocean Way Santa Monica, CA 90405 310.581.7714 www.hotelcasadelmar.com/ dining/terrazza-lounge

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STATS:

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Months Until My Drinking with Chickens Book Release

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Chickens Running Amok in My Garden

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Bottles of Booze in My “Barmoire”

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“The chickens are an intrinsic part of the organic circle of life in the garden. Plus, egg-white cocktails are pretty important around here.”

Kate’s Gram

THIS BEVERAGE BLOGGER SHARES TIPS, STATS AND WHO TO FOLLOW

TIPS TO BECOMING A SUCCESSFUL BEVERAGE BLOGGER 1.

Do what you love; don’t do what you think people want to see.

2.

If at first you don’t succeed, rebrand.

3.

Don’t be afraid to be weird. Fly that flag.

4.

Always strive to improve your photography skills.

5.

BE NICE. 790 L I KES

8.5K L IKES

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Kate’s favorite quote from Ernest Hemingway: “Always do sober what you said you’d do drunk. That’ll teach you to keep your mouth shut.”

JUST KEEP GROWING

5k

December 2016

15k October 2017

Only three? I OBJECT! I look for two things in an Instagram account: animals and cocktails.

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25k May 2018

Kate Richards

4.5K L IK E S

@drinkingwithchickens

50k January 2019

Written By and Photography Provided By: Kate Richards

OF KATE’S FAVORITE INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS

LETTER TO...

LAURYN EVARTS BOSSTICK WRITES AN OPEN LETTER TO HER YOUNGER SELF

To My Younger Self, You are on the right track. Embrace every moment of being a bartender; sharpen your people skills, meditate, embrace change and trust the process.

Sometimes you will get fed up with customers because you’re so committed to building your blog and brand, but enjoy what’s in front of you.

Focus on the present, not only the future. Hang out with your dad—he knows to never read your own press clippings.

Surround yourself with positive energy. Be swift with cutting negativity out of your life. Set boundaries; sometimes you can let people take advantage of you.

STOP. PAUSE. BREATHE. Focusing any energy on negative thoughts is a waste of space. And you probably don’t need that extra shot of chilled tequila, you know what I mean? The early bird gets the worm. Work things out in therapy. Think of therapy as a mental workout; it’s just as important as sweating every day.

Opinions are like assholes—everyone has one. Consume less media, content and others’ opinions. Practice stoicism. If you had found stoicism sooner, you would be a much more stoic person which would help with the art of living. Really get into it. Also meditation; it’s annoying but it’s necessary. Meditate every morning, it will change your life. Less CrossFit, more low resistance workouts—you really should put energy towards lowering your cortisol levels, not heightening them.

If you don’t want to spend time with someone, don’t. Focus on people you love, people who are kind and people who level you up. Read more. I know you read, but read more. Stop scrolling— it’s a waste when you could be reading or listening to a podcast.

Lauryn Evarts Bosstick

Launch fast and adjust to consumer behavior. You’re such a perfectionist—this is good, it will get you to where you want to be, but learn when to pivot and learn fast. Contribution and progression are the key to happiness. Stop reacting—selfcontrol is a strength, an art and you need to work at it. Study it and study hard. Get to a position where your mood doesn’t change based on someone else’s actions. Logic over emotion.

Founder, The Skinny Confidential

Oh, and you really don’t need another white t-shirt—you have too many. Less is more. If it doesn’t spark joy, move on! Talk less, listen more. And, of course, be a disruptor no matter what anyone says. You can create your own future—now go do. Just maybe one less shot of tequila, ‘kay?

Morning Rituals • Every morning I wake up and do the same thing: light, meditation, hydrate, movement, a podcast and a workout.

Early-Morning Giggles • My husband and I will sometimes wake up at 3 a.m. and start talking about the most random stuff that makes us laugh.

Self-Reflection • I love to be alone with my thoughts—it’s how I recharge. Reading, writing, working out at home, practicing stoicism, meditation and just thinking all help get the creative juices flowing.

For Your Eyes Only Lauryn’s Tips to Building Your Brand

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Grab a poster board… and write out your vibes, colors, feels, fonts, etc.

Branding is about the people who experience the brand, not the numbers.

A typical design has four goals: to identify, inform, entertain or persuade (via the brand gap).

LAURYN EVARTS BOSSTICK theskinnyconfidential.com @theskinnyconfidential

Photography Provided By: The Skinny Confidential

Lauryn

J E A N N I E M A I S P E A K S H E R T RU T H O N G ROW T H , C O N F I D E NC E A N D T H E P OW E R O F E X P R E S S I O N

P H O T O G R A P H E D BY: JA R E D S C H L AC H E T A N D J O E M AG NA N I W R I T T E N BY: A N N I E K I M • S T Y L E D BY: SA R A H N E A R I S M A K E U P BY: M O T O KO H O N J O C L AY T O N • H A I R BY: T R AC I GA R R E T T

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JEANNIE MAI @thejeanniemai HELLO HUNNAY WITH JEANNIE MAI @hellohunnayshow Photoshoot Location: MOONLIGHT ROLLERWAY, INC. 5110 San Fernando Rd Glendale, CA 91204 818.241.3630 www.moonlightrollerway.com

“Life is 10 percent of what happens to you. How you react is 90 percent of who you become.”

—Jeannie Mai

BODYSUIT PROVIDED BY: H&M www.hm.com COAT PROVIDED BY: American Apparel www.americanapparel.com TIGHTS PROVIDED BY: Shelly’s Dance and Costume www.shellysdanceandcostume.com EARRINGS PROVIDED BY: Jennifer Fisher jenniferfisherjewelry.com

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DRESS PROVIDED BY: The Attico www.theattico.com EARRINGS PROVIDED BY: 8 Other Reasons www.8otherreasons.com ROLLER SKATES PROVIDED BY: Moxi Skates www.moxiskates.com

“Own whatever it is that you don’t like about yourself before someone thinks they own it for you…then they think they have the right to shame you, to embarrass you, to hold it over your head or remind you about it.”

—Jeannie Mai

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V I VAC I O U S , O U T S P O K E N , B O L D A N D R E L ATA B L E A R E J U S T A F E W WO R D S T O D E S C R I B E J E A N N I E M A I , A V I E T NA M E S E - A M E R I CA N T E L E V I S I O N P E R S O NA L I T Y, S T Y L E E X P E RT, A N D A N E X E C U T I V E P RO D U C E R A N D E M M Y- AWA R D W I N N I NG C O - H O S T O F “ T H E R E A L . ” M A I ’ S U N I Q U E Z E S T FO R L I F E I S C O N TAG I O U S A N D O N E O F T H E M A N Y C O M P O N E N T S T H AT H AV E H E R S TA N D O U T, E V E N I N A RO O M F U L L O F P E O P L E W H O S E J O B I S T O D O J U S T T H AT. T H RO U G H O U T T H E Y E A R S , A S S H E C L I M B E D T H E P RO F E S S I O NA L R A N K S O F T H E E N T E RTA I N M E N T I N D U S T RY — S TA RT I NG O F F A S A M A K E U P A RT I S T AT M AC C O S M E T I C S — M A I ’ S P U R P O S E H A S A LWAYS R E M A I N E D T H E SA M E : T O I N S P I R E A N D E NC O U R AG E WO M E N T O OW N T H E I R T RU T H S A N D K NOW T H E I R WO RT H .

“Own you before they do,” the San Jose native frequently says to her fans, whom she calls ‘Mai fam.’ “Own whatever it is that you don’t like about yourself before someone thinks they own it for you…then they think they have the right to shame you, to embarrass you, to hold it over your head or remind you about it.”

Mai doesn’t let anyone have that kind of power over her. What she once saw as insecurities are now her greatest assets. “When you just own that about yourself, not only does it become a unique trait of yours, but you [also] might realize that it’s one of your powers,” shares Mai. Her story and success are written on her terms—and by her terms only.

But like all powerful people who go down in history, this wasn’t always the case. Learning to own (and speak) her truth was no easy task. This past May, the 40-year-old opened up about a traumatic childhood experience in her recently launched YouTube series “Hello Hunnay”—a web series where Mai candidly shares her thought process and opinions on life, fashion, family, social issues, beauty, dating and much more. In this vulnerable episode, she revealed why she had a major falling out with her mother, Olivia TuTram Mai, who is widely known as ‘Mama Mai.’

Mai was sexually abused by a close family member when she was nine and it went on for four years. At the time, when she tried to confide in her mother about the abuse, Mama Mai didn’t believe her.

Hurt and betrayed, she left home at the age of 16 and didn’t speak to her mother for eight years. The unfiltered episode documented the first time the mother-daughter duo addressed the heart-rending incident. Mai hopes that by sharing the rawness of her story, it will help others in similar situations find the strength to speak up and heal from the inside.

Your story is your power.

Using the years of hard lessons and heartbreaking experiences as a tool to help others, Mai was awarded the 2019 Pioneer Woman of the Year at Los Angeles City Hall for her fight against sex trafficking.

She also serves as a board member for several nonprofit organizations, to name a few, Dress for Success and Same Sky. Through her platform, the star hopes to empower women everywhere to find their voice and own their truth.

Despite the grievances of their past, Mai and her mother have mended their relationship. The celebrity credits her mother for her success and ebullient personality. “Although everyone enjoys Mama Mai, she’s not for everybody,” Mai says. “The way she mothered me, I took that and created my personality…the way I handle things now is because of the way she raised me.”

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“Own whatever it is you’re not great at. The number one thing for confidence in general is to own the process of becoming what it is you desire.”

—Jeannie Mai

TOP PROVIDED BY: PrettyLittleThing www.prettylittlething.com BOTTOMS PROVIDED BY: American Apparel www.americanapparel.com JACKET PROVIDED BY: DROMe www.drome.it EARRINGS PROVIDED BY: Adina’s Jewels adinasjewels.com ROLLER SKATES PROVIDED BY: Moxi Skates www.moxiskates.com

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Mai Fam

g She has an infinite love for her Mai Fam. With her “Hello Hunnay” series, she takes the time to personally read every single comment and creates videos based off of her fans’ requests.

Mai Self

g With her contagious energy and lively personality, most people think Mai is a natural extrovert.

On the contrary, the television personality star is actually “a super introvert.”

Mai Skin Goals

g In the future, Mai wants to produce her own skincare line. “I love skin so much and I find that I like little bits from every skincare line, but a lot are missing some key ingredients that Asian cultures use,” she says.

Mai Advice

g When life gets you down, Mai advises to create a list of things you’ve been wanting to do, “You will see inevitably when you cross these things off your list, not only will you draw further away from that toxic memory, but you’re going to feel so fulfilled as you discover more about yourself.”

Mai Dream

g If Mai could spend a day in anyone’s shoes, it would be in Meghan Markle’s because she thinks that “it’s a dream opportunity to basically have the job of serving people and having the means to help any need that you want.”

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“Kill it with confidence, hunnayyyy.”

—Jeannie Mai

BODYSUIT PROVIDED BY: H&M www.hm.com COAT PROVIDED BY: American Apparel www.americanapparel.com TIGHTS PROVIDED BY: Shelly’s Dance and Costume www.shellysdanceandcostume.com EARRINGS PROVIDED BY: Jennifer Fisher jenniferfisherjewelry.com

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Specifically, from a Vietnamese-Chinese background, she knew that her mother’s “overly strict, overly controlling, absolutely nosy” and tough demeanor comes from a place of love. To reassure Mama Mai, she learned to over-communicate, covering all her bases and thinking five steps ahead: where she was going, how she’d get home and how she was guaranteeing her safety.

“It’s the way I reacted to [Mama Mai’s strictness] that made me mature faster and learn a lot of the lessons that I needed to learn in that time,” shares Mai. “Life is 10 percent of what happens to you. How you react is 90 percent of who you become.” Fast forward to today—her playful banter and interactions with Mama Mai often steal the limelight in any setting.

Along with starring in her daughter’s busy life by creating mischief and injecting sassy (but wellintended) comments, Mama Mai plays a notable role in “Hello Hunnay.” Although many of the topics in Mai’s digital series are often covered on “The Real”— where she is one of four co-hosts along with Adrienne Houghton, Loni Love and Tamera Mowry-Housley— Mai feels that the daily hour-long talk show doesn’t allot enough time for her to express what she needs to share.

“I have so much shit to say so it helps to have a digital series like ‘Hello Hunnay’ where I can run it and say as much as I damn well want,” laughs Mai. “I just don’t ever want to shortchange people when I have opinions or something that really helped me… I never want to give you a version that may not hit you as hard as it did for me.”

In addition to being a co-host on “The Real,” producing episodes for “Hello Hunnay” and a recurring fashion correspondent for “E!’s Live From The Red Carpet,” Mai is also juggling another exciting new project as the sideline correspondent for “Holey Moley”—an all-new extreme mini-golf competition series executive produced by NBA star Stephen Curry with ABC. Mai loves that “Holey Moley” will resonate with anyone and everyone of all ages and backgrounds, which was one of the main reasons why she wanted to be involved with the show.

“There’s a moment where I actually tee off with Anthony Anderson from ‘black-ish.’ Let me tell you the most unexpected outcome came out of that,” she says. “You should absolutely watch because we have celebrities coming every week and I golf with them… I kinda kill it just so you know.”

With all the diverse directions that Mai is constantly being pushed and pulled in, both personally and professionally, the celebrity doesn’t strive for perfection. Instead, she focuses her mental energy

on recognizing what she wants to improve on, then cultivates her thoughts into action. “Own whatever it is you’re not great at,” explains Mai. “The number one thing for confidence in general is to own the process of becoming what it is you desire.”

However, don’t mistake what Mai entails as confidence for faking it. “One fucked up piece of advice that people used to tell, especially to women in the industry, is to ‘fake it till you make it,’” she says. “The fuck are we learning if we fake who we’re supposed to be… I say ‘face it until you make it, don’t fake it.’” Mai urges women to trust and listen to their intuition because that’s where your power lies—within you.

Another message that she constantly reminds her fans is to “kill it with confidence, hunnayyyy.”

Mai’s fervor for fashion and unique sense of style have been a constant heartbeat in her career. She kills it with confidence on the daily by seeking encouragement in the power of an outfit and the pop of a color, especially on the days that may be harder for her to get out of bed.

On lazy days, Mai’s feelings will want to dress her in baggy pants, an oversized hoodie and a baseball cap to hide a makeup-less face. “Instead, I’m going to put on a wrap dress that’s a gorgeous fuchsia and a great pair of heels that make me look cute wherever I sit, stand or walk,” she describes. “When I run into a friend and she’s like, ‘Oh my god, I love this color,’ that reaction that I’m receiving because of my energy [that’s generated from the outfit] is being reciprocated and works wonders on what I didn’t have by myself.”

At a young age, the fashion expert found solace in the colors, cuts and fabrics nestled in her closet where she bore the concept of “Wearapy.” Though fashion, Mai believes that her philosophy behind the practice of “Wearapy” offers healing effects on women’s confidence and mood, which can aspire a more purposeful and fulfilling life. “The outside immediately starts to penetrate the inside when you have an outfit that makes you feel good,” she states.

The key is: don’t let your feelings pick out your outfit and don’t let ignorant people dictate your feelings.

The direction of Mai’s professional career wasn’t always clear, but she always knew she wanted to be “in the business of making women feel good about themselves.” The goal was never to be famous, to achieve consistent screen time or to be celebrated for her personality. Mai’s goal is to empower “all the sisters (and brothers) out there” to find their confidence and discover their unique power from within through various life ports. She shares her story in the hopes of celebrating you and the power within your truth.

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ALIVE AT H L E T E S // / ACTI VI TI E S / / / A RTI STRY

AUG. 2019

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EXPERTS Find out What It Takes to Go Pro

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KARMA Take an Inside Look at the 2020 KARMA Revero GT

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PROFILE This CBD Company Pairs Education and Outreach With TopQuality Products

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GUIDE Your Eat, Drink, Do and Explore Guide to All the Hidden Gems in Los Angeles

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EXPERTS Blood, Sweat and Tears

Local Professionals Show Us What Sets Them Apart From the Rest

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT Global Angel Wings Project Artist Shares Her Divine Inspirations

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HUMANITARIAN FEATURE Save the Shores With Surfrider Foundation of Huntington Beach and Seal Beach

PAULINA GRANADOS @paulinagrana2 Photoshoot Location: ALLIANCE MMA GYM 646 H St Chula Vista, CA 91910 619.947.6375 www.alliancegym.com PHOTO BY: Nick Isabella

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BLOOD, SWEAT AND TEARS Many of us grew up with a favorite sport or extracurricular activity, but while most of us hung up our cleats or our helmets years ago, some took it to the next level.

When it comes to inspirational stories, there are few more stirring than that of the local who made it to the big time. Within the next pages, you’ll find the stories of six locals who had what it takes to become a professional in their field—whether it be racing towards the finish line, touring the globe with a worldrenowned dance company or racking up three Olympic gold medals.

LOCAL PROFESSIONALS SHOW US WHAT SETS THEM APART FROM THE REST WRITTEN BY: ELISE EDWARDS, JORDAN NISHKIAN & ANNIE KIM PHOTOGRAPHED BY: CHARLIE CHIPMAN, NICK ISABELLA, ERIK ISAKSON & MATT MISISCO LOCALE MAGAZINE 49

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The Drift King THIS PRO DRIFTER LIVES LIFE IN THE FAST LANE WRITTEN BY: ANNIE KIM PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ERIK ISAKSON

“I tell myself I can do this.

Let’s just push it 100 percent. If the car breaks, it’s okay...my loyal mechanics can fix it.”

EXPERT: Ken Gushi CREDENTIALS: Professional Drifter and Owner of Ken Gushi Motorsports Ken Gushi, a Japanese-American professional drifter and owner of Ken Gushi Motorsports, is not one to hold up traffic or be caught driving slow in the fast lane (or any lane for that matter). Known as the Drift King, Gushi has mastered the art of drifting—a controlled slide in a vehicle that terrifyingly hugs the turn of a road at a rapid speed.

Drifting is all thrill with zero room for error, a diminutive margin Gushi viscerally lives to push his limits in.

“Behind the wheel, I can express myself,” he says. “Whether it be aggressive driving next to a wall or sliding 120 miles an hour sideways.”

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To be successful in the realm of drifting, one must have unwavering confidence combined with remarkable mental toughness.

Aside from mental training, Gushi trains three to five hours (sometimes 10 hours) daily on a racing simulator at home which allows him to

practice on multiple tracks that are exact replicas of the ones he competes in.

“Eighty percent of drifting is all mental. You have to tell yourself ‘Fuck it… Whatever happens, happens,’” says Gushi. “The moment you feel like this is scary is the moment you should probably retire or look for another career because in that moment, there’s no way you’re going to propel [or] push yourself into being a better version of what you currently are.”

Gushi’s next big goal is to win a championship in the Formula Drift series. From there, he hopes to pass his crown off as the “Drift King” to a young, talented driver and bring them on to Ken Gushi Motorsports for the future of drifting. But for now, Gushi lives his life fearlessly in the fast lane.

The same adrenaline he gets today when behind the wheel is exactly the same adrenaline he felt when he first got behind the wheel 24 years ago.

“I’ll continue to do it as long as I feel the same rush,” says Gushi.

Early Start • Gushi’s first taste of driving a car was at eight years old when he helped his father, an owner of a car maintenance shop, move cars around.

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Years of Drifting

3

Major Car Accidents

2

Drifting Championships

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Anime-ted • At age 13, Gushi’s interest in drifting stemmed from watching a Japanese street racing anime series called “Initial D.” Flow Into the Drift • “Don’t worry about trying to make it pro.

Don’t worry about the sponsors,” advises Gushi. “If you’re passionate about drifting, and just drifting, then the pro aspect will come looking for you eventually.”

KEN GUSHI @kengushi Photoshoot Location: BOOST BRIGADE HQ 9 Vanderbilt Irvine, CA 92618 949.588.8300 www.shop.boostbrigade.com

“The first step is fundraising and getting sponsors.

You then have to build a boat and then you have to build a team all while you keep yourself focused and in shape.”

—Mike Buckley

All A-Boat It MAKING WAVES IS SECOND NATURE TO THIS SAILING DUO WRITTEN BY: ELISE EDWARDS

EXPERT: Mike Buckley and Taylor Canfield CREDENTIALS: Professional Sailors Mike Buckley got his first taste of sailing as a child growing up on Cape Cod. “My mom found some little crappy boat that had a little sail. It was wooden and leaked and she used to push me off the beach in it with a rope tied onto a tree on shore. I used to go out there until the thing would half sink and then come back and try again.”

Photography Provided By: Matt Knighton courtesy of Stars + Stripes USA & Matthew Brush courtesy of MUSTO and Stars + Stripes USA

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Sitting in that boat, Buckley could never have imagined the position he’d be sitting in today—preparing alongside partner and fellow sailing world champion, Taylor Canfield, to lead an all-American team to sail in America’s Cup in 2021. Between staying in shape, fundraising, building a team and building a boat, it’s an objective that’s all-consuming.

Buckley and Canfield are currently knee-deep in the creation process of a 75-foot race boat that’s as

The Dream Team • Their dream crew member is Michael Phelps.

They’d love for him to be a grinder and come sail with them.

Unstoppable • Buckley cites taking a vet who lost his leg to sailing as one of the coolest moments of his life. When they met, he said he wouldn’t be able to sail without a leg, but he just competed in his first handicapped sailing event.

A Rocky Start • Buckley jokes that when he and Canfield first sailed together 10 years ago, they vowed to never do it again, but after a few years they decided to give it another shot.

MIKE BUCKLEY starsandstripesteamusa.americascup.com @mikejbuckley

technologically advanced as a modern-day aircraft and capable of reaching speeds between 50 and 60 mph. “We toured Virgin Orbit in Long Beach where they build rocket ships and there’s a lot of parallels between what they’re doing and what we’re doing. Their craft flies to space while ours flies above the water, but there are so many similarities,“ Buckley explains.

As the country watches this first all-American entry in over 15 years to challenge for the Cup, it’s impressive to note the combination of work ethic, attitude and commitment to social change that has helped make them an inspiration to so many. “We have this incredible platform to inspire people, to teach kids what the American dream is and what hard work can get you. If you have a dream, it’s not gonna find you on the couch. You have to go out and do it. Take risks, work your butt off and good things usually happen.”

STATS:

10

Years Competing Together as a Team

1

Year to Build a Race Boat

7

Teams Competing in the Upcoming America’s Cup

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Acing It THIS OLYMPIAN’S SELFLESS MENTALITY CULTIVATES TEAMWORK WRITTEN BY: ANNIE KIM PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ERIK ISAKSON

“I always grew up playing for those who couldn’t play…when I complained about being tired, my dad would be like, ‘Well there’s somebody in the hospital bed or a kid out there with cancer.’ You got to play for those who can’t play.”

EXPERT: Misty May-Treanor CREDENTIALS: Former Professional American Beach Volleyball Player In volleyball, most successful players have a height advantage.

Standing at five feet and nine inches tall, the genetic disposition of Misty May-Treanor didn’t set her up to succeed in the game of volleyball, but her perspective did. “It’s a thinking game,” explains May-Treanor. “You may not be the fastest or strongest but you can outthink your opponent, and that’s what I love about it.”

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Ever since she could remember, the Santa Monica native grew up peppering with her parents. Both her parents were very supportive and heavily involved in the game.

May-Treanor’s father, known as Butch in the tight-knit volleyball community, was just as loving as he was tough on her. “He’d put me in the corner and nail balls at me… I didn’t mind,” laughs May-Treanor as she reminisces of her earlier days.

May-Treanor was a dominant force and versatile player in both the indoor and beach game. Her game was a rare sight to witness—embodying the elements of finesse and power.

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Years as a Beach Professional

3

Olympic Gold Medals

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Without a doubt, the volleyball star was a once-in-a-lifetime kind of player.

From leading her California State University, Long Beach team to an NCAA championship title in 1998 to winning three back-to-back Olympic Gold medals with her then partner Kerri Lee Walsh Jennings, May-Treanor not only outsmarted her opponents, but her selfless mentality also always cultivated a team environment that helped her teammates improve both as players and as people.

“It can’t be about you—it’s about teamwork,” says May-Treanor. “It’s about making the person next to you better, and ultimately making the team better and ultimately making you become better.”

Although retired, May-Treanor hasn’t stopped making the teams that she’s a part of become better. Currently as the Director of Volleyball Operations at Long Beach City College and owner of Dream in Gold volleyball club, her impact on the game of volleyball goes beyond the court lines. May-Treanor continues to be an incredible leader and role model— back then as a player, and now, as a mother, mentor and coach.

Like Father Like Daughter • May-Treanor played her first beach volleyball tournament with her father, Butch, when she was eight years old.

Bittersweet Milestone • One of her proudest moments was when she qualified for her first Olympics—it was the only Olympics her mother, who passed away from cancer, got to see her play in.

Learn From the Best • “If you want something bad enough, you put blinders on and become tunnel vision on that one goal,” says May-Treanor. “Don’t focus on what other people are doing [or saying], just focus on yourself.”

MISTY MAY-TREANOR @mistymayvb Photoshoot Location: ROSIE’S DOG BEACH 5000 E Ocean Blvd Long Beach, CA 90803 www.hautedogs.org/beach.html

“I love it because it’s the most freeing experience. When I’m dancing, it feels like nothing else is really going on except for this present moment.

It feels like a sacred prayer.”

Bend, Don’t Break FROM OC TO NYC, THIS DANCER’S CAREER IS ALWAYS EN POINTE WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: MATT MISISCO

EXPERT: Danica Paulos CREDENTIALS: Dancer When speaking with Danica Paulos and watching her dance, it’s clear to see that she is living the life she was meant to.

“I’ve always known that I wanted to be a dancer,” she says, reminiscing of how her grandmother started putting her in classes at Huntington Beach’s Orange County Dance Center when she was five years old. Now, 20 years later, she is a member of one of the most prestigious dance companies in America, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

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Through years of trials and tribulations, Paulos’ hard work never wavered. Her passion for her craft and her tenacity pushed her to where she is and who she is today.

“The greatest challenge I’ve had to overcome is to know my worth,” she explains. When she first joined her current company, she was Stepping Forward • 2018 marked Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s 60th Anniversary. What began in March of 1958 has become an era of exploring the African American experience through modern dance.

Back to Her Roots • “The first time I performed in Orange County with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater for my friends and family, there were about 40 young students from Orange County Dance Center there. It was really overwhelming to see my two worlds colliding.

That was the moment it really hit me.”

DANICA PAULOS @danfreaka @lens_of_the_heart Photoshoot Location: DOROTHY CHANDLER PAVILION 135 N Grand Ave Los Angeles, CA 90012 213.972.0711 www.dorothychandlerpavilion.net

given a temporary contract; she was only supposed to fill in for an injured dancer for one international tour. And while she was grateful for the opportunity to live out this dream, there was a nagging feeling that she wasn’t worthy and that “they didn’t want [her] for a long time—only a short time.”

Thankfully, Paulos found her worth and her joy. “I realized that my time is now and that I’m here for this, and I’m going to enjoy every single moment.” That revelation came to her five years ago, and she has been dancing with the company ever since.

When asked what her words would be to her younger self, Paulos answered that she “would tell her that her love for dance is the most important aspect of this whole experience, and not to let the opinions of others, whether positive or negative, blind her.

Stay true to that inner calling of who you are.”

STATS:

20

Years Dancing

10

Tours With Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

200

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Tackling a New Field NOTHING CAN STOP THIS NFL LINEBACKER-TURNED-FIGHTER WRITTEN BY: ELISE EDWARDS PHOTOGRAPHED BY: CHARLIE CHIPMAN

EXPERT: Shawne Merriman CREDENTIALS: Former NFL Linebacker, Founder of Lights Out Brand and Lights Out Xtreme Fighting If you ask NFL legend Shawne Merriman what he’s most proud of from his career, he’ll tell you it’s the people he got to play with. “In my 2006 season, we had 11 Pro Bowlers and three or four Hall of Fame guys on one team. I mean, how many times does that happen?”

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Despite retiring in 2013, the former San Diego Charger doesn’t have much time for reflecting these days.

He launched the MMA league, Lights Out Xtreme Fighting, has his own line of athletic clothing and, in April, was one of 64 legends chosen to take part in NFL Draft Day. “It was cool for me because they could have asked anybody. So to have me out for that, it was an honor and a pleasure. And craziness. I walked out on the stage and I have no problem talking to crowds, but 200,000

STATS:

257 Total Tackles in His NFL Career

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people was a whole different story. I felt like I was at a Beyoncé concert.”

Merriman knows firsthand that not much compares to the day a player is officially drafted. To those lucky enough to secure a spot, he says, “Enjoy the day and having your name called. A lot of these guys dreamt of this when they were kids, so the first part of your dream is done, but the real work is just starting. Now you have to go make your mark. Nobody cares what you’ve done—it’s what you do now that will solidify your legacy.”

As for himself, Merriman feels like he’s getting to leave his legacy for a second time. “I had a great career where I accomplished exactly what I set out to do. The only thing that I was missing was probably a ring or two. But I’ve been grateful for everything in my career… I’m getting a chance to live out my dream and my dream after my dream.”

“When you enter the world of combat sports, you have to make it your life, so until I was ready to do something full-time, I didn’t want to take that next step.”

Weigh to Go • Merriman discovered the weight room at his high school as a freshman, and despite the fact that it was rundown, he became a “workout freak.” Years later, he went back and helped renovate the entire gym at the school.

Brains and Brawn • Merriman currently gives lectures at colleges on intellectual property and patent infringement. He learned about it from defending his own name and trademark, “Lights Out.”

SHAWNE MERRIMAN www.lightsoutxf.com www.lightsoutbrand.com @shawnemerriman Photoshoot Location: RUNYON CANYON PARK 2000 N Fuller Ave Los Angeles, CA 90046 818.243.1145 www.laparks.org/park/runyon-canyon

“[In Mini Mermaids, we] talk about positive words versus negative words, trust and honesty.

You know, stuff they might not be getting talked to about at home.”

Hit Like a Girl THIS MMA FIGHTER HITS HARD AND TRAINS HARDER WRITTEN BY: ELISE EDWARDS PHOTOGRAPHED BY: NICK ISABELLA

EXPERT: Paulina Granados CREDENTIALS: MMA Fighter After high school, Paulina Granados found herself in a downward spiral. She had been an athlete her whole life, even winning an honor created for her called the “Energizer Bunny Award” for playing six sports in one year. But, once that stopped, she got bored and started experimenting with alcohol and drugs. That’s when she went on MySpace and saw a picture of MMA Fighter Gina Carano throwing a flying knee. “I was like, ‘Who is that and what is she doing?’ I started investigating the sport, found a gym and never left. It pretty much saved my life.”

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With her rigorous training, the 31-year-old doesn’t mess around when it comes to being in shape. It’s a dangerous sport and she knows firsthand how devastating the injuries can be. She’s had two surgeries, fractured her nose about three times, injured her meniscus, partially tore

her ACL and broke her orbital bone.

“The doctor who did the surgery on my knee pretty much told me that I wouldn’t be able to do the intense stuff that I do now. When he was telling me, I thought, ‘You watch me.

I’m gonna recover from this and be sprinting uphill.’ And I did.”

That doesn’t make it any easier for her parents as spectators. “My dad doesn’t watch my fights. My mom watches and she makes my fight skirts. Growing up, she would make our clothes and I used to hate that she couldn’t buy us stuff, but now I appreciate it so much more. I know she makes those garments with love, and it’s what I go into battle with.”

When not in battle, Granados enjoys going to the beach, doing “girly” things like getting her hair and nails done, and eating pizza and tacos. She also coaches high-risk kids through a program called the Mini Mermaid Running Club. “I talk to them about exercise and life stuff. The getting is in the giving. That’s what really makes me feel powerful.”

Birds of a Featherweight • When Granados became serious about training, she moved from Texas to San Diego to train at the Alliance Training Center because that’s where all her favorite fighters were.

Natural Athlete • As a kid, Granados participated in multiple sports including soccer, track and volleyball.

Just Keep Moving • On her recovery days, she makes sure to stay busy doing what she calls “active recovery,” even if that’s just taking the dog for a long walk. “Anything to keep me from being home and stuffing my face!” she jokes.

PAULINA GRANADOS @paulinagrana2 Photoshoot Location: ALLIANCE MMA GYM 646 H St Chula Vista, CA 91910 619.947.6375 www.alliancegym.com

STATS:

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Revvin’ up the Revero RIDE IN STYLE WITH THE 2020 KARMA REVERO GT

WRITTEN BY: AMEIHIA TURINGAN

Since its inception five years ago, Southern Californiabased KARMA Automotive has aimed to help shape the future of driving through its vehicles and business direction. With the 2020 luxury electric KARMA Revero GT, KARMA Automotive offers new levels of innovation by utilizing improved design, technology and performance capabilities for higher functionality.

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The 2020 KARMA Revero GT is an electric vehicle that the company calls “a bridge to the future.”

KARMA’s team of designers and engineers worked on the new car to provide essential redesign, technology improvements and elevated aesthetics.

The new Revero is now 357 pounds lighter due to its aluminum base structure, and a refined dual-motor electric propulsion system that increases all-electric range up to 80 miles when fully charged.

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A BMW TwinPower Turbo, three-cylinder, in-line engine powers an on-board electric generator to keep the Revero going for up to an additional 280 miles, giving the car a total range of up to 360 miles. The enhanced technology found in the 2020 Revero GT also improves zero to 60 miles per hour performance; the car will hit that mark in 4.5 seconds, nearly a full second faster than the model it replaces.

“We created a world-class electric vehicle drive system that delivers the performance and packaging requirements of the new

Revero,” says Bob Kruse, KARMA’s Chief Technology Officer. “Alongside a series of other technological advancements, the new 2020 Revero is as fast as it looks.”

In terms of interior design and function, KARMA Revero’s interior comes with sixway adjustable seats. Each vehicle can be customized to the customer’s liking as the Scottish leather comes in eight different colors and three multi-colored themes.

The Revero is equipped with features like 3D touch steering wheel controls, parking assist and an eight-speaker audio system for a quality driving experience. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa and Google Home help Reverso drivers and riders stay connected on the road.

“The KARMA brand is driven in part by owner experiences that are both personal and special,” says John Maloney, KARMA’s Chief Revenue Officer. “We believe ownership is about more than just our beautiful Revero GT—it’s about becoming part of our brand and connecting with those who stand behind it.”

Photography Provided By: KARMA Automotive

Show and Tell • KARMA Automotive showcased the Karma Revero GT, along with the KARMA Pininfarina GT and KARMA SC1 Vision Concept at Auto Shanghai in April 2019.

Origin Story • The original KARMA Revero was based on the Fisker Karma, incorporating much of its original design and aesthetic.

New Beginnings • KARMA Automotive started in 2014 and is headquartered in Irvine.

KARMA | WESTLAKE 250 S Cord Ave Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 844.935.0800 www.karmawestlake.com KARMA | PASADENA 285 W Colorado Blvd Pasadena, CA 91105 833.205.6602 www.karmapasadena.com KARMA | ORANGE COUNTY 950 W Coast Hwy Newport Beach, CA 92663 844.527.6262 www.karmaoc.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 57

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HEARTS & CRAFTS NANOCRAFT CBD FOUNDERS TODD ERWIN AND STEFAN MCKELLAR ARE MAKING CBD NBD WRITTEN BY: JESSICA YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JAMES TRAN

PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: NANOCRAFT CBD

“

By harnessing the health benefits that CBD offers, without the “high” that THC provides, the pair believes they can blend science and nature to benefit everyone’s wellbeing.

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STEFAN MCKELLAR

TODD ERWIN

CO-FOUNDER OF NANOCRAFT CBD

CO-FOUNDER OF NANOCRAFT CBD

NANOCRAFT CBD www.nanocraftcbd.com @nanocraftcbd Photoshoot Location: NANOCRAFT SCIENCES, INC. La Jolla, CA LOCALE MAGAZINE 59

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“We really want to change the CBD market and our community with our products. And we have a number of ways we’re doing that with our innovation, our unique products and the charities we work with.”

—Todd Erwin, Co-Founder of NanoCraft CBD

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In a new market scene that is literally ablaze with a constant influx of new products, San Diego-based NANOCRAFT CBD has set themselves apart from others trying to make a name for themselves in the cannabidiol arena. Not only do they use top-quality, hemp-derived CBD products scientifically engineered for “the athlete in all of us,” but NanoCraft also sets itself apart with their dedication to philanthropy through their charitable organization, NanoCraft Kids.

Going With the Flow • The idea for NanoCraft CBD was actually born out of Erwin and McKellar’s original idea for a business venture—they wanted to create and market CBD-infused coconut water. As they worked to develop and scale their business idea, they branched out beyond just creating a line of waters into a full range of CBD products.

“We really want to change the CBD market and our community with our products,” says NanoCraft CBD Co-Founder Todd Erwin. “And we have a number of ways we’re doing that with our innovation, our unique products and the charities we work with.”

Erwin and his business partner, Stefan McKellar, founded NanoCraft CBD three years ago with an ambitious mission. They wanted to change the perception of CBD products and help people see the benefits they provide. They wanted to disassociate from the negative stigma that has attached itself to marijuana and identify as an industry leader in the health and fitness market.

Simple education was one of their greatest obstacles—consumers needed to know that CBD products aren’t synonymous with weed.

“We really want to stop people in their tracks. We need to be able to address the misconceptions and be able to tell people, ‘No, this isn’t the same thing as weed. CBD is different, and here’s why, in order to get them to recognize the benefits of our products,” Erwin explains.

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H2-Oh! • NanoCraft waters will soon be available in three varieties: CBD water, CBD Energy water and CBD Recovery water. These waters are gluten-free, vegetarian, organic and non-GMO. They contain only CBD derived from hemp.

What’s Next?

• As the market changes to adapt to the widespread use of CBD products, Erwin and McKellar are hoping to get their products on the shelves of big box stores like CVS, Wal-Mart and GNC, as well as popular gyms and fitness centers.

THC vs. CBD • Tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol are the two primary cannabinoids that occur naturally in marijuana plants. THC is the agent responsible for the “high” that recreational marijuana users experience. CBD, on the other hand, is nonpsychoactive and does not have these effects.

“We work hard to make sure that every part of our user experience is excellent, from our packaging to our website, and of course the taste.”

—Stefan McKellar, Co-Founder of NanoCraft CBD

By harnessing the health benefits that CBD offers, without the “high” that THC provides, the pair believes they can blend science and nature to benefit everyone’s wellbeing. Their line is unique and varied, including soft gels, enhanced water, supplements, pain sticks and drops. This variation promises a safe introduction to CBD products that new users can be comfortable with as well as a range that those who are more familiar can explore.

“What we want people to see is that they’ve got options. The hope is that people can use CBD to reduce their dependence on the drugs that do harm. You hear of people getting hooked on Xanax and opioids—these people are just looking for relief.

And while everybody is different and nothing is guaranteed, some people are seeing great results using CBD without the unwanted side effects,” McKellar says.

While promoting health benefits and fostering education and understanding around CBD is very important for Erwin and McKellar, they also aim to be a leading brand in the CBD market that consumers could trust.

“We like to think of ourselves as the Nike of the CBD market,” notes McKellar. “We are a top-tier brand that provides a top-quality product. We work hard to make sure that every part of our user experience is excellent, from our packaging to our website, and of course the taste.”

In order to build trust in their brand, NanoCraft CBD makes science-based information readily available to consumers via data-based blogs and research on their website. NanoCraft CBD also

heads the second-largest CBD education group on Facebook. Additionally, the company has dedicated itself to philanthropy, contributing $1 from each product sold to charitable organizations, such as the Mauli Ola Foundation and Child Hunger Sucks, through NanoCraft Kids.

“We wanted to make sure that we could put something back into the community with what we were doing. The two organizations that we work with are really focused on helping out kids and that’s really important,” McKellar explains. “We’ve already been able to give about $10,000 [through our charitable organization] so far this year. We’re hoping to reach our big goal of being able to donate $100,000 by the end of the year. We’re on track to reach that and I really think we can.”

While the popularity of CBD continued to grow rapidly over the last several years, the use of CBD health products by athletes and other individuals is still under question. NanoCraft CBD is doing their part to bring awareness and promote the benefits that CBD promises. Fortunately, the athletics industry is making strides by connecting NanoCraft CBD sponsorship agreements with athletes in a variety of sports including surfing, tennis and golf.

“There were times when we were literally bootstrapped, trying to make this happen. We had to keep pushing through all of that. And we couldn’t do it without the team we have here,” says McKellar. “We’ve been able to surround ourselves with people who have our same vision. And we’re so lucky for that—none of this would be possible without them.”

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Photos - Melrose Rooftop Theater: David Higgs | Cinespia Hollywood Forever Cemetery: Kelly Lee Barrett/Cinespia | Shade Hotel Redondo Beach: Zislis Group | Descanso Beach Club: Catalina Island Company | Spire73: InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown

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ALIVE /// GUIDE

Get

LOST IN

LA LA Land See the City of Angels From a Different Angle

WRITTEN BY: ANDREA NAVARRO

[ So it’s officially warm-weather season in Los Angeles, and you feel like you’ve seen everything the city has to offer. Spoiler alert: you haven’t, we promise. If packing your beach tote every weekend isn’t doing it for you, we’ve got your ultimate guide right here waiting for you. From goat yoga to cinematic experiences and boozy times, of course, we’ve got you covered. Sit back, relax and enjoy LA like you haven’t before.

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HYPE-UP PLAYLIST [ “Don’t Call Me Up” by Mabel [ “Good 2 U”

by Tony Black [ “Tempo”

by Lizzo feat.

Missy Elliot [ “Only Human”

by The Jonas Brothers [ “Con Altura”

by Rosalia and J Balvin feat.

El Guincho [ “Press”

by Cardi B

For the Couple Who’s Not Afraid of Heights and Needs a New Date Night Spot [ “At Spire73, travelers can have access to 360-degree views of the city, meet locals without leaving their hotel and have an authentic and unique LA experience as they enjoy an evening atop the tallest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere,” says Christopher Nelson, general manager of Spire73. If you’re looking to amp up your regular date nights with your love, impress them with an entirely new perspective of the city. “Through food, drink and design, the bar’s unparalleled views draw in hyper-engaged guests seeking elevated social moments,” continues Nelson. Make it a weekend trip and book a room at the InterContinental to really enjoy it for the weekend.

SPIRE73 900 Wilshire Blvd, Fl 73, Los Angeles, CA 90017 213.688.7777 | www.spire73.com

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MELROSE ROOFTOP THEATRE 603 N La Cienega Blvd West Hollywood, CA 90069 877.435.9849 www.melroserooftoptheatre.com

FOR THE

Social Butterfly With a Million Friends

[ The Melrose Rooftop Theatre has quickly become one of the trendiest activities to do in WeHo. “With MRT, we saw a great opportunity to utilize our expansive rooftop space at E.P. & L.P.,” says Owner Grant Smillie. With incredible views of the hills and famous LA sunsets, you can’t go wrong

with catching one of your favorite flicks atop one of the city’s most-frequented rooftops. Grab a starter entree or dessert paired with your favorite cocktail, then relax right under the stars. You must be 21 or older to attend, and showings are on Sunday through Thursday.

F O R T H E A L C O H O L A D V E N T U R E R W H O H A S A D I V E R S E PA L AT E [ “Clifton’s invites its guests on a remarkable adventure,” says Owner Andrew Meiran. The space features five different floors of what Meiran describes as “fantasy environments,” and is a downtown landmark. “Experience the Art of Adventure within the space that inspired Walt Disney to create Disneyland, and Ray Bradbury, Jack Kerouac and other visionaries to embark on their unique journeys.” After closing its cafeteria last fall, Clifton’s is in the works of transforming into a major food hall (think Eataly) where customers can select from salads, sandwiches, hot food stations and more—all while enjoying the legendary cocktails, of course.

CLIFTON’S 648 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90014 213.627.1673 www.cliftonsla.com

Photos - Melrose Rooftop Theater: David Higgs | Spire73: InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown | Shade Hotel Redondo Beach: Zislis Group | Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

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FOR THE

5

FOODIE WHO LOVES MEXICAN CUISINE BUT ON A GRANDER SCALE

[ Los Angeles and tacos go hand-in-hand, right? Right. When Taco Nazo started out as a local lunch truck, the Romero family probably didn’t imagine they’d have six different restaurant locations inspired by the taco stand today. Dubbed “The Pioneers of the Fish Taco since 1978,” Taco Nazo also features fresh, giant ceviche cocktails that steal the spotlight. Grab one of the iconic fish tacos or cocktails, or make it a burrito, bowl, quesadilla or torta. Get your ultimate seafood fix at an affordable price!

For the Friend Who’s Always in Need of a Staycation

[ While we like to assume that most residents of Los Angeles and its surrounding areas have a thing for marina views and beach sunsets, if that’s definitely you then you’ll have to check out Shade Hotel in Redondo Beach.

As the second of the Shade Hotels (another location is in Manhattan Beach),

the Redondo Beach location opened its doors in 2016.

It’s where luxury meets the boutique hotel feel, and the vibe is just as cozy and relaxed as it sounds. Whether you’re in dire need of a staycation or just looking to have a delicious meal with some waterfront views, Shade Hotel Redondo Beach has got you covered.

TACO NAZO Azusa, Bellflower, El Monte, La Habra, La Puente, Walnut taconazo.com

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FOR THE

Introverted Cinema Snob Who Could Use a Different Movie-Viewing Experience [ “There’s nothing like a reclining leather seat, cocktail in hand, the AC pumping and a blockbuster on the big screen. It’s the best way to beat the heat,” says Annelise Holyoak, National Director of Marketing & Communications. Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas takes a traditional night at the movies and turns it into more of a luxury cinematic experience. Impress any of the affluent moviegoers in your life and head over to one of three LA locations to enjoy your next flick.

CINÉPOLIS LUXURY CINEMAS Pacific Palisades | Pico Rivera | Westlake Village www.cinepolisusa.com

SHADE HOTEL REDONDO BEACH 655 N Harbor Dr, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 | 310.921.8940 | rb.shadehotel.com

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F O R T H E A R T I S T W H O N E E D S A F R E S H S WAT C H O F I N S P I R AT I O N [ The story behind one of Venice’s most iconic attractions is an old tale of love meeting art. With Venice being home to some of the most free-spirited citizens of Los Angeles, the Mosaic Tile House fits right in while still making a point to stand out. The rainbow-colored home started off as an art studio created by artistic husband and wife duo Cheri Pann and Gonzalo Duran in 1994. Between an array of jewel-toned mosaic tiles, viewers will also find pottery, ceramics, paintings and everything in between. To reserve your spot on a guided tour, you must contact the owners via email. Admission is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors 65 and over and free for children 12 and younger.

MOSAIC TILE HOUSE 1116 Palms Blvd, Venice, CA 90291 | www.cheripann.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 65

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FO R

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[ What if we told you that Los Angeles was still home to secret Prohibition-era underground tunnels? Well, it’s true. When the US was governed to go dry, it wasn’t all about bathtub gin because Downtown LA’s alcohol-filled gatherings never stopped—they were just hiding beneath everyone. A good amount of them are closed off, but dedicated Angelenos have found some open ones. Rumor has it that these tunnels were also used for transporting prisoners, moving loads of cash and for more gruesome activities like storing bodies. Today, they’re full of street art and for anyone seeking a little adventure in downtown.

UNDERGROUND TUNNELS LA 320 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

9 For the Foodie Who Reminisces About the Asian Artisan Night Markets

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[ For anyone seeking a unique dining experience, the Hollywood Night Market tucked away at Yamashiro Restaurant is calling your name.

Featuring over 30 different vendors every week, the outdoor food fest gives you your fix of gourmet street food, live music and an outdoor bar.

Local boutiques and household goods are also available to scope through and purchase from. Let your tastebuds indulge in the endless amounts of pupusas, noodles, brick-oven pizzas, dumplings and more. The Hollywood Night Market is open every Thursday from 5-10 p.m., and starting this year, the event is officially plastic-free!

For the Vegas Pool Party Lover Who Can’t Get Enough

[ “What makes Descanso Beach Club so popular, other than its beautiful island location, is that it’s one of the last private beaches in Southern California that’s open to the public,” says Tricia Martinez, Director of Restaurants for Catalina Island Company. “That means you can legally have a drink in your hand and your feet

in the sand—at the same time.” Hop on a ferry, catch live DJs and local musicians on the weekends and enjoy your ideal beach party. “It’s kind of like a Vegas pool party, only we have an ocean and we’re a lot closer,” Martinez adds. It also doesn’t hurt that the location is super Instagramfriendly if you’re trying to create some content on Catalina.

HOLLYWOOD NIGHT MARKET 1999 N Sycamore Ave Los Angeles, CA 90068 323.433.4805 www.hollywoodnightmarket.com

DESCANSO BEACH CLUB 1 St Catherine Way, Avalon, CA 90704 | 310.510.7410 | www.visitcatalinaisland.com

11 FOR THE

HISTORY ENTHUSIAST WHO ALSO ENJOYS TIMELESS TRANSPORTATION 66 LOCALE MAGAZINE

[ If you thought cable cars were only a thing up in San Francisco, you’ve missed this Los Angeles icon. Angels Flight is a short, cable railway that’s officially back to its glory after some renovations. The 298-foot-long track is short but incredibly steep, and back in the day, it was how people avoided having to walk on the super-steep hill. You’ve seen it in so many movies, including La La Land, but you can easily check it out and go for a ride this summer. Angels Flight is open seven days a week, all 365 days a year and rides are $1 for non-Metro TAP card holders. Located right on Grand Avenue, it’s a bright-hued orange and black structure—you won’t miss it.

ANGELS FLIGHT RAILWAY 351 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90071 | 213.626.1901 | www.angelsflight.org

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Bring along some pillows, blankets and an extra layer of clothing for the ultimate chill night.

For the Animal Lover Who Is All About That Healthy Life

[ “In addition to our baaaahd-ass craze of Goat Yoga, where two adorable baby Nigerian dwarf goats jump all over you during various yoga poses, we also pride ourselves on being a very down-to-earth studio that fosters a warm community and some of the best teachers in LA,” says Owner Kareem Mitha. Goat yoga has been one of the more exciting wellness trends to spike over the last few years, but we can’t deny how adorably cute the teeny animals are throughout class. “With lots of space, smaller class sizes, unique classes and community events such as hikes and beach cleanups, the non-pretentious and holistic yogi lifestyle vibe entice those looking for more than just another studio,” Mitha adds.

Photos -Hollywood Night Market | Descanso Beach Club: Catalina Island Company | Cinespia Hollywood Forever Cemetery: Kelly Lee Barrett/Cinespia | Laughing Frog Yoga Studio

LAUGHING FROG YOGA STUDIO 12217 Santa Monica Blvd, Ste 205 West Los Angeles, CA 90025 310.985.4847 | www.laughingfrogyoga.com

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FOR THE

Couple Who Likes Spooky/ Paranormal Experiences

[ Whether you’ve lived in LA for a few months or years, chances are you’ve heard of the movie screenings taking place at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery.

Locals and visitors alike enjoy packing up a picnic and bringing it along to catch a rom-com, horror film or comedy—you name it. As a DJ spins some

tracks before the film begins, enjoy your own food, snacks and drinks with your lover on the grass, or purchase some movie fare from one of the vendors. Bring along some pillows, blankets and an extra layer of clothing for the ultimate chill night. You can check out the full summer movie lineup on Cinespia’s website.

CINESPIA HOLLYWOOD FOREVER CEMETERY 6000 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038 323.522.6870 | www.cinespia.org LOCALE MAGAZINE 67

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Wingin’ It COLETTE MILLER CONNECTS THE WORLD WITH HER GLOBAL ANGEL WINGS PROJECT

WRITTEN BY: ASHLEE POLAREK PHOTOGRAPHED BY: MATT MISISCO Angel wings painted with dark purples, magentas, blues and golds—the ones that decorate your Instagram feed and various walls around the globe—are all done by the hands of Colette Miller, a Los Angelesbased artist and connector of spirits.

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Miller started painting when she was a child, opting to paint in the art room instead of going to recess. With a passion for art and schooling at Virginia Commonwealth University, it’s not surprising that Miller’s work has become so well-known.

Despite their wild popularity, her wings are meant to be more than just a cute Instagram photo. The idea for the Global Angel Wings Project came to Miller while driving down the 101 in LA. “The image of angel wings came into my head as I was thinking about the state of humanity and the true and divine self found in all of us,” explains Miller. “I thought I would love to see that image out in the world—these huge wings that reminded humanity of our angelic and divine self.”

In 2012, Miller put up her very first wings in downtown LA near Art Share. Although the wings you’ll find there now have been touched up and redone by Miller, the

GLOBAL ANGEL WINGS PROJECT globalangelwingsproject.com COLETTE MILLER 310.213.9999 www.colettemiller.com @colettemillerwings Photoshoot Location: LOS ANGELES, CA

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location remains the same.

When they first went up, she acted illegally, painting them under the cover of darkness.

“I painted them at home because I was going to work fast,” says Miller. “When I put them up, my friends hid me behind a truck and [were on the] lookout. There was a festival that weekend, and there was a line [at the wall] right away. It was weird; I had never seen interactive wings on the street before I started.”

Since that fateful evening, Miller has put up wings in countries around the world, including Japan, Australia, Kenya, Turkey and Cuba.

While the Global Angel Wings Project is one of her more well-known works, Miller also paints nature and animal scenes. She has worked as a film editor, writes poetry and finds an outlet in music.

Creativity and selfexpression are a large part of her life. But, there is one thing she won’t do. “I never add the big hashtag on my murals,” shares Miller. “I find it offensive. It becomes an ad. My street art project was kind of a response to ads. I wanted to give something out as a gift.”

Miller hopes that the lasting impression her art makes is “to remind humanity of beauty and love and to recognize beauty and love in all. To remind you of some type of peace.”

Different Strokes • “Don’t be afraid of judgment and connect to yourself,” advises Miller.

“There is no right or wrong in painting.

It’s just your ability to be sincere.”

Hear Her GWAR! • Miller was also part of a heavy metal band, GWAR, during its formative years.

She performed under the monikers “GWAR-woman” and “Amazina.”

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ALIVE

PLANET PLASTIC OR PLANET EARTH? SURFRIDER FOUNDATION OF HUNTINGTON BEACH AND SEAL BEACH CHAPTER SPREADS AWARENESS INSTEAD OF WASTE

WRITTEN BY: ANNIE KIM PHOTOGRAPHED BY: CELINE HAEBERLY

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The goal of SF H/SB’s education is to teach the younger generation from the beginning how to practice good habits and understand that every decision they make in this materialistic society has potentially large outcomes for the fate of the earth.

SURFRIDER FOUNDATION HUNTINGTON/SEAL BEACH www.hsbsurfrider.org @hsbsurfrider SURFRIDER FOUNDATION www.surfrider.org @surfrider Photoshoot Location: HUNTINGTON STATE BEACH 21601 Pacific Coast Hwy Huntington Beach, CA 92646 LOCALE MAGAZINE 71

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Above and Beyond • After each beach cleanup, Pedroza takes home all hard plastics collected at the beach cleanup and personally recycles them.

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Hold on to Your Butt • Norma Sellers, the Chair of Hold on to Your Butt, collects the cigarette butts from the installed canisters in Huntington Beach and Seal Beach and ships them to TerraCycle— where they recycle the plastics from the cigarette buds and repurpose them into plastic pallets and ashtrays. “It’s a good idea instead of being in the landfills and polluting the environment.”

By 2050, there could be more

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plastic swimming in the world’s oceans than fish in weight. This

prediction was made by various renowned sources such as The

United Nations and Ellen MacArthur Foundation. Society is well aware of

the first step to the solution in solving this ecocatastrophe: pick up your

Ocean Friendly Restaurants • “We started Ocean Friendly Restaurants in 2011 [where] we convince restaurants to use alternatives rather than styrofoam and plastics,” says Soriano. This was such an eco-brilliant idea that headquarters in San Clemente took it over.

trash and dispose of it in the correct color bin. Getting everyone to care enough to take action-based steps

and turn them into daily eco-friendly

habits is where the difficulty lies. Cue

Surfrider Foundation (SF), a nonprofit

organization of coastal defenders with over 82 chapters worldwide.

In particular, the mission of their Huntington/Seal Beach (H/SB) chapter is to fight apathy by cultivating communitybased awareness through digestible education targeted at the youth, and reducing (and eventually eliminating) plastic pollution in the ocean with their diverse range of programs.

At every beach cleanup hosted by SF H/ SB chapter, expect several blue canopies set up with registration tables displaying various educational tools on how to take care of our planet—colorful, reusable water bottles, samples of water testing, several wide-mouth plastic jars filled with cigarette butts and young, eager volunteers greeting fellow volunteers with a warm welcome and a reusable bag for the beach cleanup. Adjacent to the registration tables sits another blue canopy known as their “pit.”

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“We may think that one straw...doesn't make a difference. But accumulated together with everyone else's straws, it does.”

—Surfrider Foundation Huntington/ Seal Beach

“I see a lot of apathetic people...people don’t really think twice about throwing something out the window, which is a shame, but it still happens. They don’t really make the connection that those things go into storm drains and get washed down in the ocean.”

—Stephanie Pedroza

The pit, spearheaded by Stephanie Pedroza, the Chair of SF H/SB chapter, is where the central point of change occurs. All collected trash goes to the pit and is then separated into the correct category: hard plastics, straws, bottle caps, cigarette butts and syringes. “The pit is where most of the action takes place...everybody’s role is important,” says Pedroza.

Loudly situated on the outskirts of the pit are more educational tools to demonstrate the wastefulness and damage we are doing to our oceans—a large wheelbarrow filled with plastic straws, a clear storage bin brimming with plastic bottle caps and several informative signs— one reading: “We may think that one straw...doesn't make a difference. But accumulated together with everyone else's straws, it does.”

The ecological action and education at the pit is where the chapter hopes a shift in perspective may take place for a new volunteer (or a passerby) who may be lackadaisical about using single-use plastics for daily convenience. “It's all about awareness—that's what we're here for,” explains Pedroza. “We’re here to expose and educate people on the effects of single-use plastics.”

At the end of every beach cleanup, Pedroza and her pit crew weigh the total amount of garbage gathered from the cleanup. SF H/SB’s website holds seven years of data from previous beach cleanups. On May 4, 2019, the chapter’s beach cleanup at Beach Blvd. State Beach gathered 683 volunteers—from all walks of life, organizations and schools—who collected a total of 591 pounds of trash and a real sense of camaraderie and fulfillment.

Beach Cleanups is just one of SF H/SB’s 10 programs.

Some of their other coast-protecting programs are: Blue Water Task Force, Help Your Harbor, Ocean Friendly Restaurants, Rise Above Plastics, Ocean Friendly Gardens and many others.

“When you have education at the beach like this, the little kids remember the stories that were here and why they came down,” says Tony Soriano, the Staff/Advisor

and former Chairman of SF H/SB who has been with the organization for 14 years. “That’s what was created here at our chapter—[bringing] awareness to the community and awareness to education for the students at all levels.”

From school presentations regarding pollution to helping students start an environmental club, SF H/ SB understands that real environmental change will take off with this next generation. Their Blue Water Task Force program, chaired by Manuel Florence, submitted grants and raised funds to build labs and purchase all equipment for water testing purposes for Edison High School and The Pegasus School in Huntington Beach.

The goal of SF H/SB’s education is to teach the younger generation from the beginning how to practice good habits and understand that every decision they make in this materialistic society has potentially large outcomes for the fate of the earth.

However, preventative steps can be taken now by everyone. It is everyone’s responsibility. Pedroza says that you can start by taking responsibility for the garbage you use and create. “I see a lot of apathetic people...people don’t really think twice about throwing something out the window, which is a shame, but it still happens,” she says.

“They don’t really make the connection that those things go into storm drains and get washed down in the ocean.”

By taking action and spreading awareness, SF H/SB is cultivating a responsible community through education whose goal is to save and preserve the beaches we love and the earth we live on. “It is easy to get involved and participation is important...or just being proactive within themselves because if every person just changed one thing—not buying single-use plastic water bottles—that would make a world of difference,” explains Pedroza.

Planet Plastic or Planet Earth?

You decide.

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FOODIE AUG. 2019

SIPS /// S E A F O O D / / / S W E E TS

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PROFILE Mark Stoddard Shares Why Hendrick’s Midsummer Solstice Is Every Gin-Lover’s Dream

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FIRST BITE Experience Japanese-Italian Fusion Cuisine for Flavors That Go Beyond Cultural Borders

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FEATURE Make These 3 Essential Summer Sippers at Home

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FEATURE Veg(gie) Vs. Reg(ular)

Tacos, Burgers and Pizza Go Head-to-Head in This Meat Vs. Plant-Based Showdown

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FEATURE Melt Away or Sweeten up Your Summer With These Los Angeles Desserts

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TWO THINGS WE LOVE Get a Taste of the Sea With These Dishes From The Strand House

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FEATURE It’s a Food Battle of Reg vs Veg in OC, LA and SD

MOD 8985 Venice Blvd, Ste K Culver City, CA 90034 424.345.9282 modpizza.com PHOTO BY: Stefanie Parkinson

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FOODIE

S ’ T T A HE H T SPIRIT!

This Hendrick’s Brand Ambassador Is #Ginning

WRITTEN BY: MAYANDRA ROBBINS AND JORDAN NISHKIAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOSIE GONZALES

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HENDRICK’S GIN www.hendricksgin.com @hendricksgin Photoshoot Location: HUNDRED PROOF 4130 Park Blvd San Diego, CA 92103 619.501.6404 www.hundredproofsd.com

“[Hendrick’s] innovative nature pushed the gin industry to transform and begin to experiment with new botanicals in gin."

—MARK STODDARD

How to Make: The Midsummer Spritzer Ingredients: • 1½ oz Hendrick’s Midsummer Solstice Gin • 5 oz Sparkling Water • ½ oz Elderflower Syrup • Edible Flowers or Fresh Herbs and a Slice of Lemon (Garnish) Instructions: • Fill a wine glass with ice and a splash of Hendrick’s Midsummer Solstice Gin. Throw in a dash of elderflower syrup and top with sparkling water. After a quick stir, garnish with your favorite herbs and flowers for that endless summer flair.

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For those who have enjoyed Hendrick’s, it’s easy to notice that it’s not your typical gin.

FOODIE

Gin has always held a special place in Hendrick’s Gin Brand Ambassador Mark Stoddard’s heart. “I've always had a love for gin, specifically, because of the rich history behind it and how it lends itself to creating a cocktail."

After competing against thousands of other mixologists across the globe and earning the title of 2010 Cocktail World Cup Champion, Stoddard began his dream job with William Grant & Sons, Hendrick’s Gin’s parent company.

As someone who has always "admired the Hendrick's brand,” this opportunity turned out to be a match made in heaven. Since then, Stoddard has combined his passion for travel and gin to spread the magic of Hendrick’s across the globe.

MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM • “[Midsummer Solstice] opens doors to a whole new world of creativity!"

Stoddard says. “It shines when you incorporate botanicals.”

A MAN OF MANY TALENTS • Not only is Stoddard a World Champion Mixologist, but he also has an amazing green thumb and participates in amateur bird watching.

For those who have enjoyed Hendrick’s, it’s easy to notice that it’s not your typical gin. And that’s because, well, it isn’t. Nestled within the rolling hills of Scotland, Hendrick's Gin’s benefits from over 130 years of family distilling heritage.

Then, in 1999, the creative genius of Master Distiller Lesley Gracie took over and added some never-before-seen flair to the gin world. A chemist by trade, Gracie emphasized the importance of quality control and presented a desire to use more of the gifts that Mother Nature has provided—making Hendrick’s the first (and only) gin at the time to infuse rose and cucumber into their product. “It's distilled unlike any other spirit out there," Stoddard remarks. “[Hendrick’s] innovative nature pushed the gin industry to transform and begin to experiment with new botanicals in gin."

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CATCH IT WHILE YOU CAN • Midsummer Solstice is a seasonal gin that will only be around for late spring and throughout the summertime.

There are plenty of ways to use Hendrick’s Midsummer Solstice Gin, but Stoddard recommends creating a spin on the classic spritzer.

Hendrick’s latest innovation? Its limited-time-only Midsummer Solstice, which Stoddard describes as “a deeply floral expression of Hendrick’s Gin.” Midsummer Solstice takes “special edition” a whole new meaning—its conception began as a wedding gift for one of Hendrick’s brand ambassadors.

Sticking to what she does best, Gracie decided to make a special gin for the couple by infusing the flowers from the bridal bouquet and distilling it into the spirit. It was such a huge hit that Gracie decided to perfect the recipe until it became what we now know as Hendrick’s Midsummer Solstice.

The newest member of the Hendrick's Gin brand pays homage to the flora kingdom in an array of floral essences—a combination that is only known to Gracie. And since she’s the only one who knows the true bouquet of ingredients that creates the summery spirit, the rest of us will have to test our senses. However, Stoddard has his own thoughts about the secret combination.

He describes the Midsummer Solstice as a party for anyone's palate, and that this newfound floral expression is "balanced, harmonic and sphericalshaped." Upon first experiencing Midsummer Solstice, you’re instantly flooded with the scent of seasonal, fresh blossoms reminiscent of the summer solstice. The first sip is rich with a symphony of warm floral and spicy notes before drifting to a hint of citrus blossom. After, the gin relaxes into Hendrick’s signature cucumber and Bulgarian rose, which is then finished off with the nice, peppery kick of the juniper, which ties the smooth, dreamy gin all together.

There are plenty of ways to use Hendrick’s Midsummer Solstice Gin, but Stoddard recommends creating a spin on the classic spritzer. Stoddard shares that “[the Midsummer Spritzer is a] simple and refreshing summer drink meant to be enjoyed outside in a garden." We couldn’t think of a more perfect way to celebrate the summer season!

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1st

BITE

Setting Sail

BLACKSHIP CROSSES THE SEAS TO BRING GLOBALIZED SOUL FOOD TO WEST LA

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WRITTEN BY: TAYLOR HAYNES • PHOTOGRAPHED BY: STEFANIE VILLERS

In a city boasting a vibrant, multicultural dining scene, it only makes sense that West Hollywood’s Blackship would marry two of the world’s most loved—and recognizable— cuisines: Japanese and Italian.

The fusion of the two cuisines are a favorite for Angelenos craving something a little different.

FOOD • Unique, creative flavors pair with an easy approachability on Blackship’s menu.

Japanese cuisine’s delicate seasoning pairs well with the broad strokes of bold Italian food.

Chef Keiichi Kurobe takes a slightly more refined approach to the cuisine but keeps it grounded as to still attract 5 p.m. diners looking for a bite to eat after work, or young families toting a couple of kids. “Both Italians and Japanese put food and family first,” says Chef Kurobe. “The two cultures prioritize the ritual of sitting down to a meal together.”

The restaurant’s name refers to a fleet of ships sent from the United States to Japan in 1853 to catalyze an intercultural exchange that has only intensified with time. Its dining room almost feels like a coastal izakaya with its nautically-themed wallpaper, low ambient light and cozy tables, encouraging diners to linger a little longer.

DECOR • The cozy, nautically-inspired space invites diners to linger over warm noodle bowls and a drink.

A chef with experience in Michelin-starred kitchens, Chef Kurobe’s latest position as sous chef at Century City’s acclaimed Hinoki and the Bird exposed him to the still cuttingedge and sophisticated possibilities that larger servings and heartier dishes can offer.

The menu offers a sort of globalized soul food—Italian ingredients play a central role (ricotta, farmers market green garlic, parmesan), but the presentation and seasonings are decidedly Japanese (dashi broth, yuzu kosho, wasabi aioli). Order the Sweet Potato Focaccia, baked in the kitchen’s brick oven and served with steaming nori garlic butter. The Carbonara ramen is a

PRICE • Japanese and Italian cuisine balance each other out for a oneof-a-kind dining experience. Most entrées hover around $18-24.

FINE WINING • The full bar offers an extensive list of draft beers, cocktails and wines.

Try the Japanese Riff, a mixture of orgeat, cognac, lemon and bitters.

VERDICT

comforting and creamy swirl of thick noodles topped with parmesan, pork and bright orange yolk—perfect for those evenings when a chilly Pacific fog settles over the Westside.

Another crowd-pleaser is the T.K.G Arancini, Chef Kurobe’s combination of two traditional dishes: a classic risotto and tamago kake gohan, a common Japanese breakfast food. The result is perfectlycrafted spheres with a crunchy rice exterior and a jammy, steaming yolk interior.

Still skeptical about this particular foray into fusion? We highly recommend experiencing it for yourself. Chef Kurobe’s vision certainly adds something new to the already impressive lineup of eateries lining Santa Monica Blvd.

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• Blackship leaves a positive impression in a foodie-friendly corridor of Santa Monica Blvd, the perfect spot to escape to for a comforting meal.

BLACKSHIP 8512 Santa Monica Blvd West Hollywood, CA 90069 310.734.7553 www.blackshipla.com

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FOODIE Songs to

B.Y O.B Be Your Own Bartender With These Easy, Breezy Libations

Set the Mood • “Rio Ancho Instrumental” by Paco de Lucía • “Tres Notas para Decir Te Quiero” by Vicente Amigo • “Samba Delight”

by Govi

TEQUIL’IN ME SOFTLY Kick It up a Notch With This Spicy Spin on the Paloma Cocktail We’re definitely not saying there’s anything wrong with your traditional Paloma, but we’re also not saying that we’re opposed to giving it a twist. Sweet and spicy mingle beautifully in this take on a citrusy classic, proving that change can be a good thing—especially when it involves Milagro.

Drink Name: Milagro Ancho Paloma Recipe: • 1½ oz Milagro Reposado Tequila • ½ oz Ancho Reyes Ancho Chile Liqueur • ½ oz Lime Juice • 3 oz Grapefruit Soda • 1 Lime Wedge • Salt (Rim) • 1 Grapefruit Wheel (Garnish) Instructions: • Use a lime wedge to wet the rim of a highball glass and coat half the rim with salt.

Squeeze the lime wedge into the glass, then discard the squeezed wedge. Fill the glass with ice, Milagro Reposado Tequila, Ancho Reyes Ancho Chile Liqueur, lime juice and grapefruit soda, and stir to combine. Garnish with a bright and delicate, thinlysliced grapefruit wheel.

MILAGRO TEQUILA www.milagrotequila.com Photoshoot Location: PIRCH COSTA MESA 3303 Hyland Ave, Ste D Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.429.0800 www.pirch.com

WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DANIELLE JACKSON STYLED BY: DEVON RIESENBERG AND FELA BARNETT 82 LOCALE MAGAZINE

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FOODIE

MODELO CERVEZA www.modelousa.com Photoshoot Location: PIRCH COSTA MESA 3303 Hyland Ave, Ste D Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.429.0800 www.pirch.com

B.Y O.B Be Your Own Bartender With These Easy, Breezy Libations

MODELO CITIZEN Modelo’s Baja Michelada Is Reminiscent of Ocean Breezes and White Sand Beaches

Songs to Set the Mood • “El Perdón”

Relaxing on a beach in Baja sounds nice and all, but kicking your shoes off and enjoying your patio sounds pretty amazing, too.

Whether you’re a homebody reminiscing vacations past or a wanderer gathering inspo for future getaways, a Baja Michelada is what we’d recommend for you!

Drink Name: Baja Michelada Recipe: • 1 Bottle Modelo Negra® or Modelo Especial® • 2½ oz Tomato-Clam Juice • ¾ oz Lime Juice • 4 Dashes Mexican Hot Sauce • Kosher Salt (Rim) • Cocktail Onions (Garnish) • Smoked Oysters (Garnish) Instructions: • Salt the rim of your preferred glass and fill halfway with ice. Combine tomato-clam juice, lime juice and hot sauce, then add Modelo Cerveza. Top with garnishes of your choice.

WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DANIELLE JACKSON STYLED BY: DEVON RIESENBERG AND FELA BARNETT

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by Nicky Jam • “Bailar”

by Deorro • “Mi Gente”

by J Balvin

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FOODIE

B.Y O.B

LILLET www.lillet.com Photoshoot Location: PIRCH COSTA MESA 3303 Hyland Ave, Ste D Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.429.0800 www.pirch.com

Be Your Own Bartender With These Easy, Breezy Libations

YES WAY, ROSÉ This Light and Summery Spritz Is the Perfect Way to Toast to Warmer Weather

Songs to Set the Mood • “Elysée tango Tango” by

As the epicenter of all things simplistic and beautiful, we think that integrating a French vibe into your cocktail hour is always a good idea. Clean, refreshing and just the right amount of sweet, the Lillet Rosé Spritz has a certain je n’ais sais quoi that we absolutely adore.

Drink Name: Lillet Rosé Spritz Recipe: • 3 oz Lillet Rosé • 3 oz Lillet Tonic • Fresh Strawberries (Garnish) Instructions: • Pour Lillet Rosé and Lillet Tonic into your desired glass, then garnish with fresh strawberries or berries of your choice—it’s that easy!

WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DANIELLE JACKSON STYLED BY: DEVON RIESENBERG AND FELA BARNETT

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James Leseur • “Chez moi” by Emilie-Claire Barlow • “Dance Me to the End of Love” by Madeleine Peyroux

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FOODIE

c r e t a e e m w s s Are Made of This

A ROUNDUP OF SUMMER’S SWEETEST AND TRENDIEST T R E AT S I N LO S ANGELES

WRITTEN BY: AUBREY FREITAS PHOTOGRAPHED BY: CHARLIE CHIPMAN

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“A cup of ice cream and a little conversation goes a long way to brightening someone’s day.”

— C H R I S T I N E LO N G , CEO OF BAE

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“My favorite part is being able to create new flavors and desserts. An added bonus is seeing the impact Chelo has made to the community.”

— J E A N N E T T E C H A N G , F O U N D E R O F C H E LO C R E A M E R Y

We all have weaknesses in this world. Sometimes it’s our families, underwater basket weaving, calculus or, for us Angelenos, road rage on the 405. One common weakness that many of us share, however, is none other than a sweet tooth. Lucky for us, Los Angeles is home to a plethora of sweet, sugary confections.

Sometimes the best way to handle this weakness is to just give in, and that’s exactly what we did. We’re highlighting a handful of LA’s best places to get your sugar fix. Who cares about carpe diem where you can carpe dulce?

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MUST HAVE

Roll-Call g To make the Rainbow Ice Cream Roll, they start off with a liquid ice cream base and pour it on an anti-griddle plate in which they manually churn the ice cream. This gives the ice cream roll a hybrid texture that is somewhere between a popsicle and soft serve.

Customers are also able to watch the process from start to finish and can see the creation come to life before their very eyes.

rainbow ice cream roll

C H E LO C R E A M E R Y Founder Jeannette Chang brought Chelo Creamery to life when she discovered her passion for cooking after rejoicing in the feel-good moments and smiles her dessert creations brought to those around her. This desire to spread joy led her to create a place where people get to try unique and exotic frozen desserts from all over the world. From Italian to Thai to Japanese, Chelo Creamery is making the global dessert map a whole lot smaller. Chang designed her shop to be a place of community where people can gather and experience new and exciting flavors, strengthen bonds and create new ones. Chelo Creamery not only started in 2015 on the basis of love and happiness, but also these continue to be aspects that the shop centers around, as Chang loves connecting with her customers, seeing them celebrate life accomplishments and even propose inside of her shop. No matter where we are from on the map, we all smile in the same language, and Chelo Creamery is giving us one more opportunity to do just that with a great frozen treat in our hand.

18558 Gale Ave #158, Industry, CA 91748 626.965.5817 | www.chelocreamery.com

MUST HAVE

chocolate birthday cake

MILK BAR Milk Bar first opened its doors in 2008 in a small shop in New York’s East Village, but their shop has grown into having locations all over the country, including their flagship shop in Los Angeles, and—not to brag—it’s their largest store to date. The atmosphere and dessert creations of the shop are equally as wacky, magical and fun. Where else can you get soft serve ice cream with “cereal milk” flavor? It only takes one second when walking through the doors and seeing the bright pink walls, cookieshaped piñatas and nearly rainbow-colored cakes to know that Milk Bar is packed with a lightning-ina-bottle personality, shaking up the dessert world.

This specific location, which was transformed from a laundromat and old Baskin Robbins, includes a kitchen, hands-on classroom and R&D flavor lab that are completely visible behind glass walls. They’re culinary scientists, and they are giving LA the best and latest results of their flavor combination findings to bring a little more celebration into people’s lives.

7150 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 347.577.9504 | www.milkbarstore.com

Ay Bae Bae g Bae’s Waffle Bowls are a new addition to their menu. It’s a great option if you want the taste of a cone but without the mess. Bae’s Pegasus flavor in two words: childhood nostalgia.

It’s the combination of Cinnamon Toast Crunch and Fruity Pebbles. Why not have that as an adult as an innovative type of dessert?

MUST HAVE

waffle bowl BAE

HBD! g Milk Bar’s Chocolate Birthday Cake starts out with the perfect chocolate cake batter, complete with whole chocolate chips. B’day frosting and b’day crumbs are layered between the chocolaty slices, giving the cake a great balance of rich chocolate flavor and rainbow funfetti bursts.

Bae was created by the power of friendship, ambition and the intimacy of dessert.

The name itself can stand for a number of things, with CEO Christine Long’s favorites being “before anything else” and “beyond any expectations,” two fitting descriptions for a dessert shop designed with love in mind. The business is adding a twist to the ice cream shop world by rocking a trendy and mysterious minimalist environment on the inside, but packing a punch of fun on its dessert menu. The decor serves to highlight the beauty in simple things, but the ice cream creations are here to encourage awe and social bonds. Long hopes Bae brings a smile to everyone’s faces and adds little positive interaction to the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, sharing the spirit that the shop was built upon. Her personal favorite part of the shop is the toppings bar, equipped with everything under the sun, including 24k gold sheets for when you’re feeling a little extra. Grab your bae, get a bae or find a bae and check it out.

369 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012 213.266.8899 | www.baebae.co

“We hope people taste our treats and feel nostalgic and like a kid again, but also that their minds are simultaneously blown by unexpected flavor combinations.”

— A N N A M C G O R M A N , D I R E C TO R O F C U L I N A R Y O P E R AT I O N S AT M I L K B A R

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MUST HAVE

the mille crêpe cake

L A DY M Lady M originally started as a wholesale cake business before opening its first boutique in New York in 2004. They recently brought their creations to Los Angeles, an important step for Owner and CEO Ken Romaniszyn, who grew up in SoCal and went to UCLA—it represents a homecoming of sorts. Lady M offers a special blending of French pastry techniques and Japanese sensibilities, bringing a delicate and refined nature to both of the boutique’s desserts and atmosphere. Lady M’s one-of-a-kind cakes are regal enough to make you feel like you’re attending the tea party of your childhood dreams, and are specially crafted to make the perfect pairing with tea or coffee. Minimalism and elegance shine through Lady M’s all-white interiors accented by their signature colors, and the space is filled with bountiful natural light to make sure that every slice of cake can take center stage. Romaniszyn’s personal favorite part of the boutique is the strawberry shortcake, as it brings back fond memories of his summers in Japan with his grandmother—a great representation of the same type of passion and love that can be found in all of Lady M’s cake creations.

Sari, Not Sari g For the Halo Halo, Sari Sari recreated a quintessential Filipino dessert and gave it a California twist by using fresh local produce.

Sweet, creamy and oh-sorefreshing, it’s the ideal summertime treat for our SoCal heat.

MUST HAVE

8718 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048 323.825.8888 | www.ladym.com

Lucky Lady gThe Mille Crêpe cakes were inspired by lilikoi butter, a popular spread and sweet treat in Hawai’i where CEO Ken Romaniszyn has family.

There are at least 20 layers of handmade crêpes paired with passion fruit pastry cream, topped with a beautiful passion fruit glaze— complete with the edible fruit seeds. Fun fact: Oprah picked the Mille Crêpe as one of her favorite cakes.

“Our boutique was designed by the awardwinning architect Sam Trimble, who focused on making it polished, clean and uncluttered. This way, every slice of cake can take center stage.”

— K E N R O M A N I S Z Y N , C E O A N D O W N E R O F L A DY M

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halo halo SARI SARI Sari Sari was created on a strong basis of carpe diem when a partner had an available space at Grand Central Market and Owner Margarita Manzke seized the opportunity to bring a bit of Filipino culture to the market’s diverse clientele. The vision for the shop started with the concept of a traditional Filipino dish called silog and has since expanded to include much more on their simple, down-to-earth menu of Filipino soul food.

The shop itself was inspired by the little convenience stores in the Philippines called Sari Sari stores, thus giving way to the shop’s name. Manzke hopes that the shop will give people who don’t have any experience with Filipino food the experience and enjoyment of trying something new that will keep them coming back for more. She loves introducing people to Filipino food and seeing their positive reactions, and she feels a lot of gratitude to be able to share her culture. It brings her joy to see people from all backgrounds coming together in one shop to celebrate so much more than simply food.

Grand Central Market, 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013 323.320.4020 | www.sarisaristorela.com

MUST HAVE

the swirl C OT TO N H I

Hi Hopes g The Swirl has an ice cream base topped with a fluff of cotton candy. Not only does CottonHi use premium ice cream for this sweet treat, but also all of their cotton candy is made without any artificial colors or flavors and is completely organic.

CottonHi is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a dessert centered around family and love, as Owner and Operator Jade Kim started her business with family in mind.

After learning her son had an allergy to chemicals found in certain foods, she created a dessert shop where people can eat the foods they want safely.

This love is seen throughout the shop, from the logo that is a digitized version of her son’s face, to the word “engjoy,” which he adorably mispronounced, painted on the wall. Kim brought a popular sweet treat from Korea to the US which combines two of the most nostalgic sugary delights: ice cream paired with cotton candy. This dessert is every bit as fun, lively and playful as the shop itself, from the colors, cuteness and visible happiness. CottonHi presents a unique dessert experience that allows people to sprinkle a little bit of “special” into their day. Their store is newly remodeled and filled with more love than ever.

3825 W 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90020 213.263.1905 | @cottonhi

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F O O D I E /// TWO THINGS WE LOVE Dungeness Crab Cavatelli Ingredients: • Ricotta Cheese Cavatelli • Dungeness Crab • Meyer Lemon • Butter • Pea Tendrils • Tarragon • Chervil • Chives

Sea It and Believe It EXECUTIVE CHEF AUSTIN COBB SHARES HIS FAVORITE DISHES OF THE SEA WRITTEN BY: DASH FINLEY PHOTOGRAPHED BY: STEFANIE VILLERS

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Initially conceived by a small group of South Bay families with an appreciation for the culinary arts, The Strand House boasts a sleek, three-floor space featuring sweeping views of the sand, surf and iconic Manhattan Beach Pier. With Executive Chef Austin Cobb at the helm, the restaurant focuses on making use of only the finest locally-sourced, sustainable products. He takes pride in creating “fresh, light California coastal cuisine,” elevating his ingredients through a minimalistic approach to create textured flavor profiles.

SEAS THE DAY

1 Ora King Salmon Ingredients: • Ora King Salmon • Thyme • Fennel Velouté • Citrus Segments • Baby Heirloom Tomatoes • Beets • Late-Harvest Riesling Vinaigrette • Radishes • Pickled Onions • ”Italian-Style” Salsa Verde • Chives

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• One of the restaurant’s most popular offerings is the Ora King Salmon, which is brought in whole with the skin on before Chef Cobb breaks it down and “pan sears it with some thyme...and then [flips] it, bastes it, gives it a nice ‘butter jacuzzi.’” The salmon rests on a smooth fennel velouté (French for “velvet”), and is paired with baby beets—a combination which Chef Cobb compares to “peanut butter and jelly.”

N AT I V E KNOWLEDGE

• Many chefs season their fish with both salt and pepper, but Chef Cobb eschews the use of pepper here, finding that it distracts from the salmon’s natural flavor.

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• Another of The Strand House’s prime seafood options is the Dungeness Crab Cavatelli, a scratchmade pasta specialty inspired by Chef Cobb’s time living in Italy. “Pasta is near and dear to my heart,” he explains. “This one is similar to a gnocchi.”

The process begins with creating the cavatelli out of ricotta cheese, egg yolks and flour, then pairing it with sweet Dungeness crab and cooking it in a sauce of herbaceous lemon butter.

N AT I V E KNOWLEDGE • Chef Cobb was a guest on Food Network’s “Beat Bobby Flay.” He competed on the Season 19 episode “Don’t Sour Out,” and prepared this cavatelli pasta as his signature dish.

• Ultimately, Chef Cobb admits that “if you’re looking directly at the ocean, the meal is often sub-par.” However, The Strand House aims to buck that tradition. Per Chef Cobb: “For us to have this amazing view...and still deliver with banging food is a really unique thing.”

FARM TO TABLE • Chef Cobb makes use of fish farms to provide certain products, and he insists that “these fish are raised in a way that has a low impact.” Its sustainability has even been checked by the Monterey Aquarium.

DRINK WHILE YOU DINE • In addition to its topnotch food, The Strand House also features a carefully selected wine and cocktail program.

Be sure to try the “Sunset Over Manhattan Beach,” a mixture of clementine vodka, fresh tangerine juice and blood orange cordial.

THE STRAND HOUSE 117 Manhattan Beach Blvd Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 310.545.7470 thestrandhousemb.com

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mad dog pizza

Tacos, Burgers and Pizza Go Head-to-Head in This Meat Vs. Plant-Based Showdown

hawaiian pizza

Photos - Stefanie Parkinson

VEG(GIE)

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REG(ULAR) WRITTEN BY: ASHLEE POLAREK PHOTOGRAPHED BY: MARIVIC DIVINA, STEFANIE PARKINSON & JOSIE GONZALES

CAFÉ GRATITUDE 512 Rose Ave Venice, CA 90291 424.231.8000 www.cafegratitude.com

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dominic pizza

MOD 8985 Venice Blvd, Ste K Culver City, CA 90034 424.345.9282 modpizza.com

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You don't have to be a vegetarian to enjoy the veggie tacos from Taco Asylum.

With bold flavors and sophisticated combinations, you’ll have a hard time choosing your favorite.

We recommend ordering the chimichurri taco with delicious and savory sautéed mushrooms.

INGREDIENTS:

• Sautéed Mushrooms • Fried Potatoes • Chimichurri Sauce • Sautéed Onions and Peppers • Flour Tortilla

mushroom chimichurri taco

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Order one (or six) of the chicken soft tacos from Naugles. Grilled and marinated chicken call a super soft flour tortilla home, but no matter how delish the base is, it’s all just a vessel with which to consume their signature white sauce.

INGREDIENTS:

• Grilled Chicken • Shredded Lettuce • Naugles Signature White Sauce • Grated Cheddar Cheese • Diced Tomatoes • Flour Tortilla

chicken soft taco

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Café Gratitude reigns supreme when it comes to vegetarian and vegan food, and the story is no different when it comes to pizza. Ancient grain flatbread serves as the delicious crust for their “Giving” pizza topped with amazing seasonal veggies and locallysourced ingredients.

INGREDIENTS:

Hawaiian Pizza • Pineapple • Coconut Bacon • Blackened Tempeh • Marinara • Cashew Mozzarella • Brazil Nut Parmesan Roasted Butternut Squash Pizza • Brussels Sprouts • Marinara • Cashew Ricotta • Basil • Smoked Salt

roasted butternut squash pizza

CAFÉ GRATITUDE 512 Rose Ave Venice, CA 90291 424.231.8000 www.cafegratitude.com

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Photos - Stefanie Parkinson

REG(ULAR)

Sure, you can build your own pizza at MOD—and with all the fresh ingredients, the possibilities are endless. Trust us, you can’t mess it up! But first, do yourself a favor and order the Dominic. If you’ve never had a white pizza, now is the time to start.

INGREDIENTS: Mad Dog Pizza • Red Sauce • Mozzarella • Pepperoni • Mild Sausage • Ground Beef • Original Crust

Dominic Pizza • White Sauce • Asiago Cheese • Fresh Chopped Basil • Red Onion • Sliced Tomatoes • Mild Sausage • Original Crust

dominic pizza

MOD 8985 Venice Blvd, Ste K Culver City, CA 90034 424.345.9282 modpizza.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 101

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The Vegan Royale from Royale! is a huge win for vegans.

The black bean and quinoa patty comes topped with mushrooms, spicy veganaise and pickled veggie slaw.

Even if you’re not a vegan, this burger is outstanding!

INGREDIENTS:

• Black Bean/ Quinoa Patty • Fried Eggplant • Sautéed Mushrooms • Pickled Veggie Slaw • Spicy Veganaise • Whole Wheat Bun

ROYALE! 4204 Voltaire St San Diego, CA 92107 619.431.5653 www.royalesd.com 102 LOCALE MAGAZINE

vegan royale

HODAD’S 5010 Newport Ave San Diego, CA 92107 619.224.4623 hodadies.com

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Photos - Josie Gonzales

The relaxation and chill of the beach meet classic American burgers at Hodad’s. Put on your boardshorts and stop in for a cheeseburger, where the burger is so good you don’t need all the extra frills to distract you.

INGREDIENTS:

• Ground Beef Patty • Cheese • Mayo • Mustard • Pickles • Tomato • Lettuce • Sesame Bun

double cheese burger

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SHOPPE SE L F-CA R E /// STAYCAT I O N / / / S W I M W E A R

AUG. 2019

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FEATURE Here Are All Your Must-Shop Destinations at South Bay’s Favorite Mall

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PROFILE Adjust Your Sunglasses With the Founders of Saint Owen

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THAT’S WHAT HE BARKED That Dog Rupert Knows How to Hit Paws and Unwind

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PROFILE Creating a Swim Brand With a Purpose

SALT + COCO @saltandcoco www.saltandcoco.com Photoshoot Location: DREAM HOLLYWOOD 6417 Selma Ave Hollywood, CA 90028 323.844.6417 www.dreamhotels.com/ hollywood THE HIGHLIGHT ROOM 323.366.8007 thehighlightroom.com PHOTO BY: Andrea Domjan

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Founders Pauline Le and Vivian Le Advocate Sustainability Through Their Swimwear

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A Self-Care and Shop Guide to The Point

THE POINT 850 Sepulveda Blvd El Segundo, CA 90245 310.414.5280 www.thepointsb.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 107

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Ahh, shopping. It’s one of America’s greatest pastimes, right up there with baseball and apple pie. So, what better way to spend a summer day in LA than by taking a trip to The Point—the retail crown jewel of South Bay—and giving your credit card a serious workout? With its sleek, California coastal design, carefully curated selection of hip boutiques and eateries, and friendly, al fresco atmosphere, this place isn’t just your average mall—it’s a lifestyle. Check out our hit list of highlights.

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Must-Try: The Daisy Warby Parker Ú Making good vision a

little more fashionable, this eyewear brand features a wide variety of girly glasses and sleek sunnies in feminine frames, custom-fit with lenses to fit a variety of prescriptions. One of the brand’s staff picks, the smart Daisy style, comes in three colors that won’t distract from your fabulous face.

424.390.7941 www.warbyparker.com Pairing Is Caring Ú Fifteen percent of the world’s population lacks access to vision care, so with the help of nonprofit partners, Warby Parker’s Buy A Pair, Give A Pair’s mission makes it possible to provide eyeglasses to those in need.

Must-Try: The Keto Plate Superba Food + Bread Ú Take a shop break and snack on some modern

American fare like prosciutto or avocado toast, grain bowls, crisp salads and mouth watering sandwiches. Thanks to the Keto Plate, sticking to this popular diet plan has never been easier, thanks to a loaded breakfast of beef brisket, bacon, turkey sausage, halloumi and egg, topped with tomato and avocado. With a full breakfast and cocktail menu, you can always come back for happy hour or a major brunch binge.

310.906.4598 www.superbafoodandbread.com

Must-Try: Malika Rose Gold Statement Earrings in Abalone Shell Kendra Scott Ú With a dazzling array of gems on display, this

Set in Stone Ú Can’t find exactly what you’re looking for at Kendra Scott? Did you know you can design your own custom piece with more than 30 colorful stones to choose from?

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lovely jewelry line offers a bevy of baubles, including eye-catching pendants, bracelets and cuffs, bangles, large-stone statement rings and elegant earrings.

Our fave? The Malika Rose Gold Statement Earrings.

The abstract petal shapes and abalone shell color will glamorize your look with a natural flare.

424.277.3700 | www.kendrascott.com

Must-Try: NOMAD Rhoda Classic Strap One Piece San Lorenzo Bikinis Ú With a dizzying array of swimwear

featuring some of the hottest lines to hit the beach, this South American-born brand is the perfect place to stock up on summertime swimmies and vacay essentials, like the NOMAD Rhoda Classic Strap One Piece. With its on-trend Brazilian high-rise cut, this suit has the demure feel of a classic one-piece but is also ready to serve up some serious side-boob.

310.616.3306 www.sanlorenzohawaii.com

Up in the Air

Designed to feel like a “living room,” The Point boasts 45,000 square feet of open-air shopping since opening its doors in 2015.

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Face Haus is known for its menu of “facials for the people.”

Must-Try: The World of Difference Facial Face Haus Ú Aiming to deliver the premiere

pampering of a luxury spa to busy folks of all skin types in a laid-back, down-toearth atmosphere, Face Haus is known for its menu of “facials for the people.”

A hybrid of treatments, including a peel, Vitamin C infusion, LED cell rejuvenation and a rich algae mask, makes The World of Difference Facial the Cadillac of facials.

855.550.HAUS www.thefacehaus.com

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Must-Try: Stellar Trouser Athleta Ú Known for its line of

quality workout gear, this athleisure brand spawned by Gap also features an array of comfy basics, dresses, undergarments, swimwear, accessories and outerwear in soft, wearable fabrics.

Qualifying as one of the brand’s “most loved” pants, the Stellar Trousers are designed with structured yet stretchy Luna fabric, for a look that’s office-appropriate yet forgiving enough to get you through the day without a muffin top.

310.321.0197 www.athleta.gap.com

Must-Try: DJ Spider Roll UMI by Hamasaku Ú Serving up a slew of sustainable sushi and

seafood, this eclectic eatery puts a unique spin on classic sushi rolls, nigiri, sashimi, ramen and Japanese delicacies. Cue the DJ Spider Roll; a blend of lobster, crab and avocado, this feel-good favorite is topped with flakes of tempura and dynamite sauce that melts in the mouth.

310.524.9980 www.umibyhamasaku.com Who, UMI? Ú According to Founding Partner Jesse Duron, UMI is a more casual alternative to its traditional LA sister restaurant, Hamasaku.

Must-Try: M-61 PowerGlow Peel Pad Bluemercury Ú Offering the most sought-after beauty, hair and skincare products from

favorite lines like NARS, Oribe and La Mer, this one-stop-shop offers the seal of approval and expert guidance from trained skin care specialists with every product. According to Bluemercury Store Manager Jennifer Lee, the bestselling M-61 PowerGlow Peel Pad treatment, handpicked by Bluemercury Founder Marla Malcolm Beck, combines a one-minute peel with an exfoliating agent and a gradual tanner in one individual pack.

310.416.1006 | www.bluemercury.com

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Must-Try: Time To Sweat Crop Bottoms lululemon Ú The beloved athletic-wear brand is known

as much for its moisture-wicking fabrics and coveted figure-flattering appearance as it is for its ubiquitous insignia spotted in aprèsyoga activities all across Los Angeles. For the serious athlete (or those who just want to look like one), the classic and durable Time To Sweat Crop Bottoms has everything, including four-way stretch comfort fabric and stealthy pockets for keys and cell phones.

310.640.9476 www.shop.lululemon.com

Child’s Play

Now through December, The Point Kids Club hosts play dates every third Thursday of every month from 10 a.m. to noon. Some dates include Superhero’s Day, “Mummy” & Me Halloween and HoliYAY Party.

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Peruse a flurry of flowy frocks, rockin’ rompers, camis, crop tops, girly blouses and on-trend accessories.

Must-Try: Baylee Dress Planet Blue Ú This boho-chic boutique will keep you

looking festival-ready all year round, with its generous selection of musthaves from California cool-girl brands like Flynn Skye, Wildfox and For Love & Lemons. Peruse a flurry of flowy frocks, rockin’ rompers, camis, crop tops, girly blouses and on-trend accessories. From the Planet Blue exclusive line, Blue Life, the breezy, white floral Baylee Dress is your summertime go-to with its ruffled hem and flirty, feminine details.

310.616.3380 www.shopplanetblue.com

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THIS SISTER DUO’S FUTURE IS SO BRIGHT, THEY GOTTA WEAR SHADES WRITTEN BY: MICHELLE JACO PHOTOGRAPHY BY: ANDREA DOMJAN PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: MEILANI COTTRELL

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“MICHELLE AND I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN VERY INVOLVED IN THE FASHION REALM AND VERY STYLE-CENTRIC.” —VALARY SANDERS

SAINT OWEN www.saintowen.com @saint.owen PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: Huntington Beach, CA LOCALE MAGAZINE

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BEFORE IT WAS COOL • Before larger-framed sunglasses became a trend, Haner and Sanders used to shop in the men’s section to achieve that oversized look.

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BUILDING GENERATIONS • One of Saint Owen’s earlier designs, “Triumph,” was named after the first twin-engine Triumph motorcycle that Haner and Sanders’ father built. The look was also inspired by the motorcycle goggles.

mix was Matt, Sanders’ husband and Haner’s brother-in-law. Sullivan and Matt were close and would later form the band Avenged Sevenfold with fellow bandmate Brian, who is now married to Haner.

Dedicated to perfectionism with an edge and reaffirming what is authentic, this familyowned-and-operated sunglasses brand, run by twin sisters, is breaking the monotonous cycle that the eyewear industry has begun to stifle into over the last 30 years. With a sunglasses brand offering more than what meets the eye, Michelle Haner and Valary Sanders have constructed a unique, vibrant company from the ground up, bypassing the industrialized procedures of their industry counterparts and priding themselves on building a new type of enterprise with purpose and intent. To them, that is authenticity.

That is Saint Owen.

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The motivation behind the company’s hallowed name was to honor their late childhood friend, James Owen Sullivan. Haner and Sanders grew up in Huntington Beach, California and came to know “Jimmy” Sullivan as children and developed a friendship that would span almost two decades, up until his untimely passing in 2009.

Remembered for his innovative spirit, vibrant personality and, as Sanders put it, someone who wore the “craziest glasses ever,” Sullivan was attributed to being a great inspiration to the sisters’ creativity.

It’s only fitting the sister duo would draw inspiration from those closest to them, as Saint Owen’s origins truly stem from family and lasting friendships. Another major element in the brand’s beginnings comes full circle in their backstory: Haner, Sanders and Sullivan were childhood friends who grew up in the heart of Surf City, attending concerts and punk shows. Included in that

With the defining impact of music playing a role in much of their early years and into adulthood, the sisters toured the world with their rockstar husbands and still do to this day; Sanders took on the role as their tour manager for five years.

During that time, Matt and Brian suggested their wives take a shot at designing some custom frames for an upcoming show. Haner and Sanders collaborated and got to work. The end product was so wellreceived that they decided to turn it into a business, and now here we are, full circle.

“Michelle and I have always been very involved in the fashion realm and very style-centric,” states Sanders.

Haner adds that they wanted to “create something personal but that had a lot of edge.”

Since its launch in 2017, Saint Owen’s personal commitment still holds true in ensuring every aspect along the design, development and construction process is touched by hand in an effort to bring an intimate quality to the products—a quality lacking in most of today’s markets. Sanders elaborates, “We just

IT’S ONLY FITTING THE SISTER DUO WOULD DRAW INSPIRATION FROM THOSE CLOSEST TO THEM, AS SAINT OWEN’S ORIGINS TRULY STEM FROM FAMILY AND LASTING FRIENDSHIPS.

felt like the whole industry was getting monopolized…by huge giants who were doing mass-market production.”

Every pair of Saint Owen sunglasses is crafted in either Italy or Japan, as both countries have a prestigious reputation for creating high-end quality. “We specialize in limited edition pieces and exclusivity. We wanted to create something that can’t be replicated,” says Sanders. Each piece possesses an intricate detail—a result of the careful handcrafting with only simple frames being mass-produced.

When asked about a typical day in the design process, the sisters made clear that no day is typical at Saint Owen. It’s a rarity to come across a sunglasses brand founded by women—sisters at that—but what makes this brand so unique is how involved both Haner and Sanders are in the design process. The two wear many hats, and that means playing a role in not only the design, but also the product development, product research and even creative directing; they appear to sincerely love what they do.

In describing one of the most memorable moments from the job, Haner and Sanders agreed that client feedback takes the cake. Reminiscing over an emotional email, Haner shared a customer’s experience after receiving a pair of sunglasses in the mail. The customer expressed how instantly confident and beautiful she felt after putting them on. “That was my most gratifying moment. It was just uplifting,” says Haner. Sanders adds, “And that’s what we wanted.

Put ‘em on and feel something. Feel emotion. Feel like a badass. Feel like they could conquer the world.

It sounds above and beyond for just a pair of sunglasses, but I feel like sunglasses have that [power].”

Sanders goes on to say, “Everything about the brand is embedded in us.”

Haner interjects “Or, everything about us is embedded in the brand.” The two share a playful laugh and agree that their main focus is to disrupt the eyewear industry by merging edge with quality because that’s what their customers deserve. Haner concludes, “We want it to be elevated, gritty and edgy, but classy as well.”

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Rupert Knows Best This Insta-Famous Pup Is Living Life Unleashed

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WRITTEN BY: RUPERT DEBRINCAT PHOTOGRAPHY BY: KAMBRIA FISCHER, ANGEL MANUEL, LEE WALTERS & JEN STROMAN

RUPERT DEBRINCAT @thatdogrupert

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Hi, I’m Rupert DeBrincat, a 6-year-old, well-traveled and well-fed French bulldog living in Orange County. I live my life through a simple mantra: “Born and bred to rip and shred.” But, if you follow me on Instagram, it’s really a bit more like “born and bred to lay in bed.” Either way, I’m one lucky pup who’s been able to get out and do some cool stuff. Thanks to my supportive parents, I’ve never had to work a day in my life. I love snuggling with Mom and Dad, pushing the limits of fashion, meeting new people and, of course, sleeping and eating. But my favorite things in life either roll or bounce. Stick with me through the next few pages and I’ll show you some of my favorite spots across Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego.

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Sit Saint Marc American Cuisine & Pub Ú Did somebody say

bacon? Seriously, like every single kind you could ever imagine!

Located in Huntington Beach’s Pacific City shopping center, Saint Marc has a great vibe, the nicest staff and an outdoor patio that’s friendly to little guys like me. Plus, if you look around, you just may find their secret speakeasy bar, private enough to serve up a couple puppuccinos for you and your buddies.

SAINT MARC AMERICAN CUISINE & PUB 21058 Pacific Coast Hwy Huntington Beach, CA 92648 714.374.1101 saintmarcrestaurant.com

Play Huntington Dog Beach

Orange County

Ú Can I just say

I’d like to start a movement to change it from Surf City to Dog City? I know, not the same ring, but this town seriously loves dogs. Furreal. At the north end of the city is a beach just for me…and you, too.

Huntington Dog Beach is a place where we can run free, take a go at surfing or just bask in the sun and get a tan. Leashes are optional at Dog Beach, but fun and a sandy face are mandatory.

HUNTINGTON DOG BEACH 100 Goldenwest St Huntington Beach, CA 92648 www.dogbeach.org

Snack TOP DOG *barkery *bath *boutique Ú Being local to Orange County, I gave a couple

of high fours straight away when we walked in the door. The gang at Top Dog are serious when it comes to baked goods—even for the food sensitivitychallenged. This is my go-to spot when somebody asks what kind of cake I want for my birthday.

They have so many different treats, toys and other pooch-friendly necessities. Did I mention the peanut butter cupcake was my must-have favorite?

Don’t cheap out on us four-leggers. We deserve some good treats for dessert, too!

TOP DOG *BARKERY *BATH *BOUTIQUE 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste A-160 Huntington Beach, CA 92648 714.960.3647 www.topdogbarkery.net

Stay Paséa Hotel & Spa Ú As a guy who sleeps on your pillow and snores at volume 10, I’ll take

whatever I can get to block it out so my mom and dad can have a quiet night’s rest—and the soothing sound of crashing waves right outside the window seems to do the trick! This new hotel is so plush and comes with all the amenities you could ask for: fire pits, cabanas and even a huge puppy play park with a lifeguard tower. My only complaint about the Paséa is that they have a beautiful and amazing outdoor bar shaped like a tree, but peeing on it is frowned upon. Before you leave, be sure to give a belly rub to the dog of the house and Director of Barketing, Lago.

COLLAR PROVIDED BY: Puppies Make Me Happy www.puppiesmakemehappy.com

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PASÉA HOTEL & SPA 21080 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 855.622.2472 | www.meritagecollection.com/pasea-hotel

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Stay Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa

San Diego

Ú Want to get whisked away to Hawaii

without leaving California? Then the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa is right for you! Located on the shoreline of San Diego’s Mission Bay, this resort is a tropical paradise. Be sure to catch the hotel’s dogfriendly patio, located at its outdoor lounge Moray’s, for delicious bites and cocktails.

My favorite? The Greyhound, of course!

CATAMARAN RESORT HOTEL AND SPA 3999 Mission Blvd San Diego, CA 92109 858.488.1081 www.catamaranresort.com

#RupertFace

People think my smile is cute, and I agree. So, I created a hashtag to show off photos of me and new friends doing their best “Rupert Face.” It’s not just Tongue Out Tuesday—it’s Tongue Out Every Day.

Snack Urban Wolf Ú If you’re a health-minded pup

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Table-Side Service

Rustic Root checks all the boxes I look for when getting out on the town with my pawrents.

If you’re inviting me over for dinner, you better have a seat at the table ready. I have it good, I know.

parent, look no further. The team at Urban Wolf is so confident in their kitchen, they’ll open their doors wide enough for both of us to go check it out. Their food is sourced locally and prepared on-site. So fresh and so clean!

Sure, eating healthy might cost a bit more, but we’ll make it up to you by going to the vet less and sticking around a lot longer. And let’s be honest: you want that.

Still not convinced? Do some homework on how grocery store kibble is made. You’ll never shop anywhere other than Urban Wolf ever again.

URBAN WOLF 475 Tenth Ave San Diego, CA 92101 845.328.0364 www.urbanwolfusa.com www.maxotaraw.com

Play Petco Park | Park at the Park Ú With so much to do and so

Sit Rustic Root Ú It’s summer, so let’s shout it from the rooftop (bar)! Rustic Root checks all the boxes

I look for when getting out on the town with my pawrents, although there’s really just one box: the one that says I’m invited. If you find yourself in San Diego’s Gaslamp District, be sure to stop by for a happy hour that includes food and drink specials like $5 local craft beers. Grab a sofa and kick your feet up while these guys take care of making the rest of your sunny afternoon awesome.

RUSTIC ROOT 535 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 619.232.1747 | www.rusticroot.com

much to see in San Diego, the Park at the Park is a great spot to put your belly on the grass to relax a bit while catching a Padres game. It’s a park in the Park.

How cool is that? Got a couple of bucks to spend? Feel free to invite me and my folks to join you in a Barkyard Dog-Friendly Suite out in left field. There’s only a couple of these available, but they come with four-people seats and two pet seats. Can you say “ultimate date night?”

PETCO PARK | PARK AT THE PARK 100 Park Blvd San Diego, CA 92101 619.795.5555 www.mlb.com/padres/ballpark

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Loews really does love pets!

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Los Angeles

Sit Ashland Hill Ú Finally, a restaurant with

an outdoor beer garden and a curated craft beer list that even my Frenchie buddy Pablo Escobeer would appreciate! And for dogs…

The first Tuesday of every month is Yappy Hour. It’s a who’s who of meetups with cocktails and small bites for the bigs and a special dog menu for us. But even better, proceeds from the night go to support local petrelated nonprofits.

ASHLAND HILL 2907 Main St Santa Monica, CA 90405 310.392.3300 www.ashlandhill.com

Snack Healthy Spot Ú This was my favorite

A Little Help Please

I won’t jump on or off the bed or chairs.

Is it because I’m welltrained or too scared? You decide.

Stay Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel Ú My stay at Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel was suite! Great rooms, a great pool

and great service—what more could you ask for? How about an unobstructed view of the beach and Santa Monica Pier that even a little, vertically-challenged guy like me can appreciate? Loews really does love pets! So much in fact that they had room service drop by with a chicken dinner and a pet-friendly gift basket when we arrived. Be sure to say hi to my new friends Nick and Silvia when you check in and let them know you want to see a Rupert room key card in the future. Even though we live nearby, I can’t wait to come back for a staycation soon.

LOEWS SANTA MONICA BEACH HOTEL 1700 Ocean Ave Santa Monica, CA 90401 310.458.6700 www.loewshotels.com/santa-monica

Roll Bounce

If it rolls or bounces, count me in! I go beyond fetch into attack mode with everything from balls to skateboards. Balloons and roller suitcases? Yep. Those make the list, too.

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spot when I lived in Costa Mesa—you could say I was a regular. I’m so happy to see Healthy Spot locations popping up all around Southern California. This boutique pet store has the best gear and the hippest vibe all with healthy and natural options to keep man’s best friend feeling and looking great. They even have a doggie day spa!

Because what pup wouldn’t want a massage and a blueberry facial?

HEALTHY SPOT 1110 Wilshire Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90401 310.458.2004 www.healthyspot.com

Play Santa Monica Pier Ú Who doesn’t love long

walks on the beach? I know I do. Santa Monica is one of those picturesque Los Angeles towns that you need to see in person. From the Promenade on Third Street to the Amusement Park on the pier, there really is something for everybody. Grab your leash and take a stroll on the boardwalk to see one of those famous Southern California sunsets that are even more beautiful than any photo.

SANTA MONICA PIER 200 Santa Monica Pier Santa Monica, CA 90401 310.458.8900 www.santamonicapier.org

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salt + coco FOUNDERS VIVIAN LE AND PAULINE LE ADVOCATE SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH THEIR SWIMWEAR WRITTEN BY: ANNIE KIM • PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ANDREA DOMJAN • MODEL: SASHA PATRICK

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“We want to use Salt + Coco as a platform to educate people on the realities of fast fashion.”

—PAULINE LE

SALT + COCO @saltandcoco www.saltandcoco.com Photoshoot Location: DREAM HOLLYWOOD 6417 Selma Ave Hollywood, CA 90028 323.844.6417 www.dreamhotels.com/ hollywood THE HIGHLIGHT ROOM 323.366.8007 thehighlightroom.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 123

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“We’re starting a brand with a purpose.”

—PAULINE LE

“We’re not just a brand.

We want to help our environment and be conscious of what’s going on and see where we can help.”

—VIVIAN LE

At the start of 2016, Pauline Le and Vivian Le—the Founders of SALT + COCO, a sustainable swimwear brand based in Los Angeles—found themselves swimming in the tropical waters of Bali, Indonesia.

Surrounded by the richest hues of blues and greens that nature has to offer, they discovered garbage floating everywhere; bottles, wrappers and other harmful plastic debris had tainted this sanctuary.

The disturbing image left an eye-opening imprint on their perspective as it set the moral standards of Salt + Coco’s vision and built the foundation of their brand’s heartbeat.

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Since their month-long trip to Asia three-and-a-half years ago, Pauline and Vivian developed the idea of Salt + Coco by fusing their love for fashion and their desire to better the world in all the ways they can. “We’re starting a brand with a purpose,” says Pauline, the marketing specialist, skilled photographer and social media guru. “We’re living in a different generation where we have to be more conscious of our actions.

Every company should be heading towards this…There’s so much waste and things are getting overproduced.”

The mission of Salt + Coco is to promote the importance of sustainability through their collection of essential and versatile swimwear pieces designed with timeless looks to perfectly fit the body type of every saltwater lover, earth-conscious lounger and daring adventurer.

Vivian, the talented fashion designer, is well aware of the detriments generated by fast fashion, which is

why she designs every swim piece with the intentions of quality and longevity. “Just mentioning the word ‘sustainability’ helps people become more aware,” she explains. “With Salt + Coco, you can be part of fighting for the greater good all while looking cute and feeling comfortable. It shouldn’t have to be a sacrifice.”

To help promote the earth’s longevity, they partnered with Carvico—a textile manufacturer that repurposes waste into ECONYL®, a sustainable Nylon.

Produced by using refurbished fishing nets, Salt + Coco recently launched their second swim line collection designed with classic cuts that flaunt fun and bright, borderline-neon colors.

They also designed stylish black boardshorts for men. The boardshorts are made with REPREVE®, a fabric created from recycled water bottles and other plastics.

Every aspect, function and detail that goes into Salt + Coco has a specific eco-friendly purpose to fulfill—from the fully-plantable hang tags infused with a mix of wildflower seeds to the timeless swim designs meant to be in-fashion for years to come.

“Everything that goes into our swim

line is of quality and detail,” explains Vivian. “It’s about the little things and going the extra mile to cater to the taste of our consumers and the wellbeing of our planet.”

With color options in orange, pink, blue, nude, white and gray, some crowd favorites are the two-piece Santorini bikini—a wide-deep V plunge top with adjustable straps— and the Positano two-piece bikini—a low rounded scoop with skinny modifiable straps—both accompanied with several chic choices of cheeky bottoms. Their multifaceted Capri One Piece in black can go from lounging poolside to throwing a pair of ripped jeans over in preparation for a fun night out. Whether you’re splashing in the water or exploring the city, the exceptional quality of the nylon fabric molds to your body, accentuating all the right places.

“We’re not your average bathing suit line,” Pauline shares. “We wanted to create pieces that you can also wear as part of your outfit.”

The battle for the greater good doesn’t stop at sustainability for Salt + Coco.

Along with being aware of the type of quality and fabric used to create their swim line, the Asian-American duo also cares about what goes on behind the scenes of their production and how the workers creating their products are being treated.

On their excursion to Asia, the pair visited factories located in China, the Philippines and Vietnam. Many of these factories focused on creating large production of cheap products for a fast market which contributes to additional waste.

“We didn’t understand the severity of how fast fashion played a negative impact on working environments until we physically witnessed some of the working conditions in factories throughout Asia,” recounts Pauline.

“We want to use Salt + Coco as a platform to educate people on the realities of fast fashion.”

Through research, the partners found that factories in Bali promoted ethical manufacturing and used sustainable fabric to create quality products.

“Our goal was to find a factory that shared our beliefs and that also met our needs and standards for quality,” she adds.

The self-funded company hopes to eventually expand Salt + Coco’s outreach worldwide. Their goal has always been to help make the world a better place to live in through the simplicity of a bathing suit: look good, feel good and spread the message to do good.

In the near future, they want to develop a system that encourages their customers to recycle and repurpose their swimsuits. “We’re not just a brand,” says Vivian. “We want to help our environment and be conscious of what’s going on and see where we can help.”

WEEKEND VIBES • During the weekends, you’ll find Vivian at home playing Kingdom Hearts while Pauline helps book and promote shows in OC with many artists like Snoop Dogg and Ty Dolla $ign.

They both enjoy spoiling their dogs with love, cuddles and snacks.

MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN • Possessing skills and attributes that the other may lack, the pair creates the perfect business partnership.

Pauline is great at networking and understands the nuances of marketing, and Vivian handles the backend logistics and creates incredible swim designs.

DOG LOVERS • On Pauline’s most recent trip to Bali, she raised $2000 with the Salt + Coco x Bali Pet Project on GoFundMe to provide food for orphaned dogs who lost touch with their owners during an unfortunate volcano eruption.

You Gotta Be FIDM Me • In 2015, Vivan attended the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising for fashion design and Pauline worked there as a front desk receptionist.

They both wanted to start their own brand, and a mutual friend, Anika Corpus, connected them.

SAME SAME BUT DIFFERENT • Although very different from one another, they’re “both very honest with each other and have thick skin.”

Vivian shares, “We are so different in terms of what we like to do, but our work ethics are very similar.”

“With Salt + Coco, you can be part of fighting for the greater good all while looking cute and feeling comfortable. It shouldn’t have to be a sacrifice.”

—VIVIAN LE

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AUG. 2019

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FEATURE Plan Your Next Couple’s Getaway at Harrah’s Resort SoCal

132 FEATURE (X)7th Heaven

BMW’s New Assistant Features Makes the X7 an Absolute Dream

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FEATURE The Newest BMW X7 Has Us Dreaming for the Weekend

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PRO TIPS Take Interior Design to the Next Level With BoConcept’s Savvy Tips

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FEATURE Don’t Waste Another Minute of Date Night Trying to Figure out What to Do

SOUTH BAY BMW John Hall, General Manager 18800 Hawthorne Blvd Torrance, CA 90504 310.939.7300 www.southbaybmw.com PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: BMW Group

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W E L C OM E TO FUNNER, CALIFORNIA Harrah’s Resort SoCal Has Never Been Funner

HARRAH’S RESORT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA 777 Harrah’s Rincon Way Funner, CA 92082 760.751.3100 www.harrahssocal.com

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WRITTEN BY: KERI BRIDGWATER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: HARRAH’S RESORT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

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Million Dollar Baby

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• Sign up for the Caesars Rewards loyalty program and enjoy perks including discounted hotel stays and pre-sale show access. The tier credits that you earn every time you play using your membership card can also be used to enter monthly Mayor’s Millions drawings and other promotional giveaways.

Play the Tutorial

• Bewildered by Black Jack? Ask any dealer at an empty table for a gaming tutorial and they’ll happily offer pointers to help you brush up on the rules.

Located in the epicallynamed city of Funner, California, Harrah’s Resort SoCal is the perfect weekend getaway for couples, minus any major travel days.

Boasting stylish suites, beautiful pools, a Swim-Up Bar and

romantic restaurants, this hip casino hotel meets buzzy (and

award-winning) resort is just an hour drive from San Diego. There’s a state-of-the-art Fitness Center and full-service luxury spa, plus

entertainment aficionados will dig the bustling gaming floor and a wide range of big-name shows.

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Native Knowledge

• Southern California’s first Native American-owned brewery, SR76 Beerworks offers craft beer brewed on-site plus handcrafted cocktails made to your liking.

deserved upgrade? Want extras like a Vitamin C shower, Philips Wake-Up Light, hand weights and yoga mats?

Try a Zenfully Suite! It’s a spacious living area and separate bedroom with a king bed, private balcony and luxe bathroom—complete with an oversized soaking tub—or go big with the Oh So Suite. Director of Resort Marketing Amber Lussier said, “Harrah’s Resort SoCal prides itself in offering unique experiences that can only be found in Funner, California.”

ACTIVITIES + SPA

PLAY • There are slot machines aplenty, weekly poker tournaments and table games including Rincon Craps, but the new jewel in the casino floor crown is the Topgolf Swing Suite––and another first for Harrah’s Resort SoCal. Square off for an interactive date night game of zombie dodgeball, virtual ice hockey or golf in one of two private luxury lounge areas. They can each be rented by the hour and include a dedicated server, plus access to a full bar and special food menu.

POOLSIDE

FOOD AND DRINK • For bespoke cocktails fashioned with exclusive spirit brands, housemade syrups and artisanal ice cubes, stop by prohibition-style bar, Spiked. Bartenders here specialize in creating custom libations that inspire guests to explore new flavor profiles and lesser-known liquors like FernetBranca and vermouth. Next, get cozy in the private Champagne room and snap a free keepsake pic in the LED mirror selfie circle before heading to Oyster Bar for an intimate dining experience. Tucked inside the awardwinning Fiore steakhouse, their menu highlights include fresh-shucked oysters, sushi, a majestic seafood tower and solid sake list.

• Gambling aside, there are a ton of fun activities, amenities and happenings to explore, including Movie Night Under the Stars every Thursday, plus regular karaoke and DJ nights every weekend.

There’s the monthly maker series, Get Crafty, plus an A-list line up of entertainers that come through The Events Center. Hike the one-mile Nature Trail or treat yourselves to a couple’s massage at The Spa at Harrah’s––a modish haven of tranquility that also features a barbershop, nail and hair salon, soothing salt water baths and two relaxation lounges. “Don’t be shy!” exclaimed Beau Swanson, VP of Marketing. “Our teammates are here to guide you to your best experience, so bend their ears, make new friends and discover your ‘funner!’”

Gambling aside, there are a ton of fun activities, amenities and happenings to explore, including Movie Night Under the Stars every Thursday, plus regular karaoke and DJ nights.

• Towering palms and cascading waterfalls set the scene at Harrah’s Resort SoCal’s gorgeous outdoor oasis which comprises the distinctivelyshaped main Dive pool, separate swim-up bar and meandering 400-foot Lazy River. Secure prime poolside seats with a private cabana package––the ‘Brunchbana’ special includes a Mimosa or Bloody Mary Bar, chips and salsa, plus your own server. Guests also get access to the Dive Concert Series, which showcases live bands and DJs––think upbeat sounds on Fridays and Saturdays with reggae on Sundays––every weekend from Memorial Day through Labor Day. STAY • With over a thousand rooms and suites spread across two towers— some with pool views—there are lots of lodging options. And, while all are modern and well-appointed, why not make the weekend super special and elevate the experience with a well-

Take a Dive

• If you can only “splash and play” for a day, the ResortPass provides guests 21 and over access to all of the pools at Dive including the 400-foot Lazy River, the state-of-the-art Fitness Center and free self-parking.

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(X)7th Heaven BMW’S NEW ASSISTANT FEATURES MAKE THE X7 AN ABSOLUTE DREAM

WRITTEN BY: JAMEE LIND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: BMW GROUP

You have an iced coffee in your console and a fully loaded 10 hi-fi speaker system blaring your “Lazy Day” Spotify playlist on a bright and sunny California Saturday—the perfect starter concoction for a weekend escape. From the moment you drove your dream car off of the South Bay BMW lot, you’ve been craving adventures just like this.

Driving through the rugged mountains of Santa Monica to catch the tail end of the summer season in the latest and largest BMW X7 heightens the excitement of this getaway. Of course, the best weekend trips never go unnoticed—and a few of your close friends have already expressed interest in catching the sunset from a more exclusive angle. They’re already trying to mess with your music, but this car is roomy enough to look past that. With three rows of seating, a luxurious ambiance and advanced equipment features, the BMW X7 might solidify your place as a SoCal trip master.

SOUTH BAY BMW John Hall, General Manager 18800 Hawthorne Blvd Torrance, CA 90504 310.939.7300 www.southbaybmw.com

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With three rows of seating, a luxurious ambiance and advanced equipment features, the BMW X7 might solidify your place as a SoCal trip master.

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With built-in custom climate zones, everyone in your car has the option to adjust the temperature to their individual liking.

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You might ask, ‘Hey BMW, how far can I drive before I need to refuel?’ or ask how far that new cat cafe is from your home.

BACK IT UP, YOU GOT IT!

Hall explains that the back-up assist “will recall how you last pulled into your last parking situation, for example your driveway, and back right out by using the same pattern in which it came in,” making it perfect for LA drivers with “tight parking situations to maneuver around.”

SHOWING VIPS SOME TLC

South Bay BMW VIP Benefits include complimentary car washes, complimentary pickup and delivery, BMW loaner vehicles, onsite body shop personnel, same-day service appointments, complimentary LAX drop-off and even a guest lounge and café.

SUCCESS-DRIVEN

“The X7 offers luxury and driving performance with a bold design that makes it far more distinctive than its competitive set,” South Bay BMW General Manager John Hall notes. “It’s big, it’s bold...and, most importantly, it’s built to perform like all the best of our BMW lineup.”

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Your friends might fight about the temperature of the car as you make your way along Pacific Coast Highway, driving to a sunset lookout spot that showcases both the beach and the mountains, but you’re prepared. With built-in custom climate zones, everyone in your car has the option to adjust the temperature to their individual liking. The roominess of the BMW X7 is further complemented by the comfort seats, providing every rider with seating position adjustments.

Further enhancing your friends’ senses is an additional glass roof element, cupholders and armrests integrated into the side panel trim.

But of course, when Sunday rolls around and it’s a fresh day, you’re going to need another iced coffee from a cafe bistro with absolutely no parking. Your friends are always there for you, but the

BMW X7 is still your go-to for parking help. The Parking Assistant Plus with Reversing Assistant feature remembers the strategy you used to pull into that tight LA parking spot and is capable of automatically selecting and maneuvering into spaces parallel to the road. Along with this driving assistance, the BMW X7 provides you with Traffic Jam Assist, as well as the Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection.

An unparalleled driving experience, and a co-driver who never disagrees with your music choices, the BMW X7 is there for you through every inch of traffic on the 405. You might ask, “Hey BMW, how far can I drive before I need to refuel?” or ask how far that new cat cafe is from your home. The navigation component will provide information on any traffic jams and remind you when it’s time to set off. The assistant’s integration with Microsoft Office 365 and

Skype for Business transforms the BMW X7 into your personalized mobile office, allowing you to join that last-minute teleconference without breaking a sweat.

Then the empty refrigerator in your studio reminds you that it’s Sunday night, and you’re in need of fresh groceries to prepare for the week ahead.

Folding down the third row of seating with the click of a button, you’re ready to fill your cargo area with groceries.

Your assistant further helps you relax after a long weekend with built-in vitality and relaxation programs, which activate a combination of various functions, including air conditioning, seat massage, fragrancing or music.

And when Monday finally comes, iced coffee in tow, your BMW X7 will be there to take you through another week of work and a chance to plan your next weekend escape.

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ESCAPE “Take into consideration the dimensions of your space and a design consultant can help you come up with the best solution for your living…”

—Stephanie Duval

pt -Owners, BoConce PHANIE DUVAL, Co STEPHANE AND STE

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GET FAMILIAR WITH THE WORLD AROUND YOU • “First of all, we need to understand how you live. There are many elements that will help a design consultant show you the right products; pets, kids or if you often [host] are all things that should be taken into consideration.”

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BE THE HOST WITH THE MOST • “Boconcept’s versatile furniture designs, such as the extendable tables, are possible products to consider if during the week you are alone, but on the weekends, you often host friends and family.”

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I WANT IT, I GOT IT • “Today, functionality and customization are key. When looking at a space, communication between a design consultant and customer is very important... Don’t buy something that you are not 100 percent convinced about.”

The Duvals currently own two stunning showrooms in both Los Angeles and Orange County, allowing you to work with an expert design consultant familiar with the endless customization possibilities that BoConcept is known for providing.

One and Only • The customization options of every BoConcept product, down to the handle on a single drawer, is endless! “I am never going to sell the same exact piece of furniture twice,” Stephanie Duval says.

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Live by Design BOCONCEPT’S STEPHANIE DUVAL SHARES HOW TO INTEGRATE MODERN DESIGN INTO YOUR HOME

WRITTEN BY: DIEGO E. GAXIOLA HEADSHOT PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JEN STROMAN PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: BOCONCEPT

The Denmark-based lifestyle brand BoConcept, continues to revolutionize the design world. CoOwners Stephane and Stephanie Duval chose the extraordinary brand for its continued goal of creating furniture that exhibits “simplicity, craftsmanship, elegant functionality and quality materials.” The Duvals currently own two stunning showrooms in both Los Angeles and Orange County, allowing you to work with an expert design consultant familiar with the endless customization possibilities that BoConcept is known for providing. Check out these five savvy tips that Stephanie has formulated to guide you when incorporating modern design in your home!

Instant Inspo • Social media influencers, interior design-focused magazines and, of course, the gorgeous LA and OC BoConcept showrooms are excellent places for you to derive inspiration when designing a space.

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LESS IS MORE • “What we as design consultants are continuing to notice is that people are embracing the philosophy of ‘less is more.’

They want to hide anything they can to make their space look clean, cool and relaxing.”

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SMALL SPACE, NO PROBLEM! • “Take into consideration the dimensions of your space and a design consultant can help you come up with the best solution for your living, even in smaller spaces often found in Southern California.”

“Today, functionality and customization are key. When looking at a space, communication between a design consultant and customer is very important...

Don’t buy something that you are not 100 percent convinced about.”

—Stephanie Duval

BOCONCEPT ORANGE COUNTY 3311 Hyland Ave Costa Mesa, CA 92626 657.267.0100 www.boconcept.com

BOCONCEPT LOS ANGELES 434 N La Brea Ave Los Angeles, CA 90036 323.433.7118 www.boconcept.com

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DATE THE CI C ITY TY

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DATE THE CITY @datethecity www.datethecity.com

From first dates to anniversaries, spending time with your partner is what keeps the butterflies in your stomach fluttering. Whether you’re starting something new or rekindling an old flame, a well-planned date is a universal way of saying “I love you”...or maybe just “I really, really like you” if you’re not there yet. To take the pressure off the planning, we’ve turned to an expert—Neal Hruby, Creator of Date the City—to curate three unforgettable summer outings in Laguna Beach, Santa Monica and Del Mar. No matter who you’re sharing your time with, these dates are bound to bring you and your summer crush closer than ever.

DAT E T H E CIT Y P L A N S Y OU R N EXT O U T IN GS IN O C , LA AN D S D WRITTEN BY: NEAL HRUBY PHOTOGRAPHED BY: TAE KWON, CARLOS VALLE AND MICHAEL WESLEY MODELS: DIONNA CHAMBERS & PAUL KEATING OF PEAK MODELS & TALENT, www.peakmodels.com & XAVIER GUTIERREZ, MYLES OROSCO, ADAM SANTA CRUZ AND RAYNA VALADE OF BRAND MODEL & TALENT AGENCY, www.brandtalent.net LOCALE MAGAZINE 139

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Date The City Los Angeles Edition

Essentials

2 (People)

4 p.m.

Santa Monica

$20-$35 per person Winged Victory

• The massive plane outside the museum is a Douglas DC-3. During WWII, 30,000 of these were sent to fight and were eventually credited as one of the four things that won the war.

Smart but Casual

Timeline

Summar y Overlooked World War II hangars sit in plain view behind the chain-linked fences lining Santa Monica’s Airport Avenue An area once boasting America’s top-of-the-line plane manufacturing capabilities now houses artist stalls and casting studios. Above the east end of the street is a floating Douglas DC-3 marking the location of your first stop: The Museum of Flying. As you step foot inside the modernized hangar, you’re dwarfed by flying machines of old. Pay your dues and wander like a kid under wings and cockpits of Santa Monica’s goldenera of aviation. After soaking in all you can, head out to experience a flight of your own.

Walk along the tiny airport to find the hidden, miniature sign directing you to the Observation Deck. Circling around the far side, take in the expanse of the field as the mutterings of the air traffic controller are heard over a loudspeaker. With front row seats, look off into Century City’s skyline and find the distant speck, or “PJ,” dropping in line for landing. Within moments the jet careens to a thump, as

you cheer for the plane’s safe arrival. The exuberance of this scene is something only your inner child knew you’d be excited for. After a few more successful passes, head away from the propellerexcitement and duck into your own “plane” to dine on something much more enticing than airplane food.

Spitfire Grill shines in the golden-hour sun like an ancient beacon of aeronautical greatness.

Cross over where the runway used to be before making your way through the white-picket fence into an air-fan’s dream. Gawk at the classic photos as you wander through the original WWII-era “bar.” Find a seat among the local crowd who dutifully sip their wine and ponder the miracle of flight.

With a drink in hand, you head out to the patio then place an order of fish and chips—like any Navy man would’ve back home from a recent tour. As the sun sets down beyond the silver hangers and guiding lights of the runway, focus in on your internal flight pattern: it’s time to make some history of your own.

SPITFIRE GRILL 3300 Airport Ave Santa Monica, CA 90405 310.397.3455 www.spitfiregrill.net

2:30 p.m.

Museum of Flying

4 p.m.

Observation Deck

MUSEUM OF FLYING 3100 Airport Ave Santa Monica, CA 90405 310.398.2500 www.museumofflying.org

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My Cheeseburger Is My Co-Pilot 6:30 p.m.

Spitfire Grill

• The inside of the Spitfire Grill is the original bar, which was fashioned to mimic the inside of a commercial Douglas DC-3 airplane, making the pilots feel right at home with their cheeseburgers.

Photos - Tae Kwon | Models - Dionna Chambers and Paul Keating of Peak Models & Talent, www.peakmodels.com

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Date The City San Diego Edition

Essentials

2 (People)

10 a.m.

Del Mar

$115-$165 per person

Sneakers Encouraged

PEDEGO ELECTRIC BIKES www.pedegoelectricbikes.com

Photos - Michael Wesley | Models - Rayna Valade & Myles Orosc of Brand Model & Talent Agency, www.brandtalent.net

Timeline

Summar y The welcoming archways of The Cedros Avenue Design District greet you as you begin to rubberneck from art store to adorable café. Stepping inside the Pedego Bike Shop, you will be greeted by none other than The Lord of Fun and his elderly Chihuahua, Chica. With a full afternoon of cruising, get yourself and your partner sized, serviced and strapped in to the day’s vehicle: the electric tandem cruiser. After a few test-runs, you’ll be set up to roll out and win the day.

As you traverse hilltops and dodge other fun-loving cyclists, you’ll casually arrive at your destination: the ivy-laden Café Secret. Take a seat under the sidewalk pergola, as your respite from the road begins with freshly squeezed mimosas. Dig in to their menu of ceviches and saltidos-galore. The “secret” here may be the effortlessness with which it takes to enjoy yourself prior to the food arriving. Then, a colorful display of fresh fish, indigenous veggies and mango salsas engulf your senses. Each bite sends you a kilometer closer to Peru,

but your next stop is in a different direction.

Follow the echo of “skwaaawk” as you turn for the next destination, Free Flight. Push open the gate to reveal a mini oasis of exotic birds scattered throughout a tropical oasis. After a lesson from the docent, purchase a bowl of fruit from the “tiki bar.” Cautiously step from parrot to parrot, and gather the courage to invite one on your arm; laughs and unsure moments are all part of the game. When that perfect Insta-photo has been captured, take a short ride to your final destination.

Inside the warehouse of Viewpoint Brewing, join the packed scene of locals, passing cyclists, aspiring cornhole pros and various sun-worshippers sipping a brew. With beer flight in hand, don’t get suckered into a normal place to sit—look around and make your way to the swings on the far patio.

It’s your “private” floatyseat—the perfect space to relax after a day’s ride. Before too long, the hardest decision of the day is to return for another round or return the tandem. You decide.

10 a.m.

Pedego Bike Shop

11:45 p.m.

Café Secret

VIEWPOINT BREWING CO 2201 San Dieguito Dr Del Mar, CA 92014 858.356.9346 www.viewpointbrewing.com

1:15 p.m.

Free Flight

3:00 p.m.

Viewpoint Brewery

What’s the Viewpoint?

• Enjoying the scenery at Viewpoint Brewery? Buy a Bird a Beer then, why don’t you! For $5, your proceeds will go to the San Dieguito River Valley Conservatory.

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Date The City Orange County Edition

Essentials

2 (People)

5 p.m.

Laguna Beach

Music to Our Ears

• The Wine Gallery is no slouch when it comes to live music. Stop in Tuesday and Thursday nights when they have a live band.

$65-$90 per person

Bring Dancing Shoes

Timeline

Summar y Along the “unassuming” stretch of Laguna Beach coastline known as Woods Cove, you’re sure to spot sandy couples scuttling to their cars and surfers squeezing out of their wetsuits as the beach day comes to a close. Happily dry and sand-free, you turn in to The Wine Gallery and receive the kind of welcome normally reserved for a neighborhood regular. Take your seat at the high table and listen as your energetic waiter dishes out wine and food specialties. Italian “tapas” à la meatballs and roasted cauliflower arrive as the energy in the tiny venue slowly builds along with your glass of wine. When your pizza arrives, snack, sip and repeat as necessary.

Once you’ve maxed out your cheese consumption for the evening, it’s off to the races.

Two entrances serve The Seahorse Bar, but the back driveway more adequately introduces the concept of this one-time auto parts store-turned-boutiquewatering-hole. Once inside, time slows down a while for the always-busy OC, so soak in the old school

bohemian vibes. There is a theme to everything you see, and uncovering the little mysteries means it’s worth repeat visits. The makeshift bar serves an eclectic mix of beer, wine and a surprisingly refreshing “adult kombucha.”

Plop down on a vintage couch next to the record player emitting a bygone era’s top hit and pretend it’s 1963. Relax and rehash old times while sipping on a freshly poured glass of the good stuff. Soon, you’ll be dancing worlds away.

The multilevel castle of Mozambique’s maze baffles you as you pass live toucans and giggling couples en route to your final stop. Above the high-brow dining room is a party gearing up for your arrival. Pass into the energetic room and squeeze up to the bar in time to order before the band takes the stage. Go with an African Mojito or Drunken Elephant to pair with the Peri Peri Prawns or Blackened Salmon to whisk you to faraway lands just as the first beat of a classic rock anthem engulfs the room. To wait at the bar or hop on the dance floor, that is the question.

MOZAMBIQUE 1740 S Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.715.7777 www.mozambiqueoc.com

5 p.m.

The Wine Gallery

6:15 p.m.

The Seahorse Bar

WINE GALLERY 1833 S Coast Hwy, Ste 110 Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.714.8744 www.winegallerylaguna.com

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Just Bique-ause 7:30 p.m.

Mozambique

• Mozambique was originally a Mexican cantina called Tortilla Flats. This is where Javier Sosa, owner and namesake to Javier’s Restaurants, started his culinary career years ago.

Photos - Carlos Valle | Models - Adam Santa Cruz & Xavier Gutierrez of Brand Model & Talent Agency, www.brandtalent.net

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