Southern California Life Magazine. July/August 2016 Issue

GETAWAYS & BEACH ESCAPES

Redondo Beach CELEBRATE DISCOVER EXPERIENCE

A PERFECT SOUTHLAND GETAWAY

SEE SO CAL ON JULY/AUGUST 2016

HORSEBACK

BEST

BOTANICAL GARDENS

FOOD & FUN DINNER THEATERS

SUMMER ON THE WATER BOATS & FLOATS

Contents JULY/AUGUST 2016

60/ COVER STORY

SoCal’s

Best Beaches BY

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LINDA LANG

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE

REDONDO PIER Photo courtesy of REDONDO BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & VISITORS BUREAU

Contents JULY/AUGUST 2016

72/

68/ Original Fried Chick en Bruxie

DEPA RTMEN TS 10/ AFFAIRS TO REMEMBER JDRF LA Chapter’s Imagine Gala

52/ THE GOURMAND Celebrity Chef DUFF GOLDMAN

BY ROBYN FLANS

12/ AFFAIRS TO REMEMBER FACE Foundation’s 6th Annual Bags & Baubles

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

87/

68/FIVE FAVES

Waffle Wows!

BY LISA KESTENBAUM

72/ THE HOOD

HUNTINGTON BEACH Surf City USA

Monique Reidy

Sunset Sail in The Marina Harbor

BY LINDA LANG

16/ ENCHANTING ESCAPES Summer Escapes: Splendor on the Sand

80/ TO-DO-LIST

5 Blissful Botanical Gardens

BY LINDA LANG

BY IMAAN JALALI

24/ SIGNATURES & LANDMARKS

Living the DREAM-liner!

87/ FAMILY FUN

Fun In the Sun

BY MACKENZIE MILLER

BY ERIKA THOMAS

29/ SO CAL CULTURE

Delightful Dinner-Theater Destinations

52/ Celebrity Chef Duff Goldman of “Cak e Masters”

BY IMAAN JALALI

36/ TRENDING TALK

Don’t Let Politics Spoil Your Vacation

90/ PERFECT PICKS

Summer Gift Guide

93/ ON THE CALENDAR

Events And Happenings

96/ SOOO CAL Car Wash

BY SCOTT HARRIS

BY ESTHER C. BLEUEL, MA, MFT, MDR

38/ FAB FINDS

Summer Essentials

BY NICOLE POLLASTRINI

98/ MY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Janice Hiromi Kalec

40/ OFF THE BEATEN PATH Horsin’ Around

BY KARMA CHRISTINE SALVATO

46/ BUBBLES & BREWS

Southern California’s Magnificent Margaritas

BY DUSTIN CLENDENEN

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE

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✑✍❚❁❐❆✿❄❉■❇❂❁▼▲✿❁❂❃❄❅❆❇❈❉❊❋●❍■❏❐❑❒▲▼◆❖◗❘❙❚❀✑✒✓✔✕✖✗✘✙✐✍✝✻✽✼✛✌✎✏ ✡✢✣✤✥✦✧★✩✪✫✬✭✮✯✰✱✲✳✴✵✶✷✸✹✺❞✁✠✃✄☎✾✆☛✈✉✿☞❛❝❜✚✜✞✟ marriot_light_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" €$€£¥₩฿руб marriot_light_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $€£¥₩฿руб marriott_med_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $€£¥₩฿руб marriott_med_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $€£¥₩฿руб marriott_bold_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? åç´ƒ©˙ˆ˚¬µ˜øœ®ß†¨¥`¡™£¢§¶•ªº–“‘«…æ÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜،‰Íˇ¨„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $€£¥₩฿руб marriott_bold_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? åç´ƒ©˙ˆ˚¬µ˜øœ®ß†¨¥`¡™£¢§¶•ªº–“‘«…æ÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜،‰Íˇ¨„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $€£¥₩฿руб marriot_condensed_light_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $€£¥₩฿руб marriot_condensed_medium_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $€£¥₩฿руб marriot_condensed_bold_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $€£¥₩฿руб AbadiMTStd-Light_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥(`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $‚Ǩ¬£¬•‚Ç©‡∏ø—Ä—É–± AbadiMTStd-LightItalic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥(`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $‚Ǩ¬£¬•‚Ç©‡∏ø—Ä—É–±

Let us introduce you to the beauty of the desert.

AbadiMTStd_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $‚Ǩ¬£¬•‚Ç©‡∏ø—Ä—É–± AbadiMTStd-Italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € $‚Ǩ¬£¬•‚Ç©‡∏ø—Ä—É–±

Let us begin your day with an unforgettable sunrise.

Let us illuminate your night with a canopy of stars.

Let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime.

Experience true luxury in the Palm Springs Valley with the uncompromising service only we can offer. For reservations, contact your travel professional, call The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage at 800-542-8680 or visit ritzcarlton.com/ranchomirage.

©2014 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

C E L E B R A T E

D I S C O V E R

EDITORAL MONIQUE REIDY

E X P E R I E N C E

PUBLISHED BY ELYSIAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. ROBYN FLANS

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ENTERTAINMENT AND PROFILES EDITOR

ANTONI PHAM

ERIKA THOMAS

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

LANDMARKS AND HISTORICAL FEATURES EDITOR

BENNY HADDAD

DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

SCOTT HARRIS

MONIQUE REIDY

PUBLISHER AND PRESIDENT

CHERYL DALTON

IMAAN JALALI

SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, SALES AND DIGITAL PLATFORMS

ARTS AND CULTURE EDITOR

SPORTS & "SOOO CAL” EDITOR

JANINE GOLDBERG

NICOLE POLLASTRINI

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS AND CIRCULATION

LINDA LANG

VANESSA SHAPIRO, HEIDI WOOD-BROWN, BEVERLY DENICE SPARKS, CTA

JANINE GOLDBERG

STYLE AND BEAUTY EDITOR

CALENDAR OF EVENTS EDITOR

ESTHER BLEUEL

COMMUNICATION AND ADVICE EDITOR

TRAVEL EDITOR

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

BOOKKEEPER

CONNIE SCHUH CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

DUSTIN CLENDENEN, LISA KESTENBAUM, MACKENZIE MILLER, KARMA CHRISTINE SALVATO

CIRCULATION CONSULTANT

DOUG BITTO

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

ERICA GODDARD, JANICE HIROMI KALEC

LEGAL COUNSEL

EDWARD COREY, ESQ.

INTERN

CATE VALINOTE, JESSI SOPORITO

ADVISORY BOARD

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

ON THE COVER REDONDO PIER Photo courtesy of REDONDO BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & VISITORS BUREAU

SUBSCRIPTIONS

INFO@SOCALLIFEMAG.COM EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL@SOCALLIFEMAG.COM ADVERTISING

ADS@SOCALLIFEMAG.COM

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE MAGAZINE

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

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

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

Actress Kirstin Ford Actress Brec Bassinger

Auctioneer Mellisa Nielsen (L) and Magician Justin Willman speak onstage during JDRF LA's IMAGINE Gala to benefit type 1 diabetes research at The Beverly Hilton on May 14, 2016 in Beverly Hills, California.

An evening of entertainment and inspiration, the JDRF LA Chapter’s Imagine Gala is one of Los Angeles’ signature fundraising events. The event on May 14th at the Beverly Hilton featured a performance by Aloe Blacc, entertainment by magician Justin Willman, celebrity guests, and both live and silent auctions. The goal of IMAGINE Gala is to spread awareness of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and raise $1.5 million for research.

This year, the gala honored Amelia and Adam Stewart. Amelia is the VP of Media Relations and Corporate Communications for E! Entertainment and Esquire Network and Adam is Google’s VP of Consumer Goods, Government & Entertainment.

(L-R) JDRF LA Board President Kevin Wehrenber, Associate Chief Legal Counsel for Pixar Animation Studios, Jody Weinberg, and Recording artist Aloe Blacc.

PHOTOS: BY TODD WILLIAMSON/GETTY IMAGES FOR JDRF

Children participate in the auction.

Actor Kevin Sizemore (L) and Gina Lombardi

Silent auction items on display.

Auctioneer Mellisa Nielsen

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(L-R) VP of Consumer Goods, Government & Entertainment at Google, Adam Stewart, VP of Media Relations and Corporate Communications for E! Entertainment and Esquire Network, Amelia Stewart, and Ben Price.

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE

Magician Justin Willman (L) and photographer Jillian Sipkins

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

Guests Eyeing Handbags

On May 1st, more than 450 animal lovers joined FACE Foundation at their 6th Annual Bags & Baubles for a life-saving event benefiting pets and families in need.

Held at a private Rancho Santa Fe estate, the event included complimentary estate tours, delicious desserts, wines and a silent auction of hundreds of designer handbags, jewelry, sunglasses and accessories!

Among guests were local celebrities and FACE Success Story Lulu the Doxie, who was saved by the Foundation in 2011. 100% of the proceeds from Bags & Baubles will benefit pets in need of emergency veterinary care, like Lulu. www.face4pets.org

Grantee Sharon Howalnd with Success Story Lulu

Brooke Haggerty E.D., Danae Davis Programs Manager, Gina Jordan Committee Member, Rachel Hart Committee Member, Judy Palozzi Volunteer

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FROM THE PUBLISHER/ E D I TO R . I N .C H I E F

You may have noticed that at the mere mention of air travel these days most people will pull out their list of horror stories and they can’t wait to share every detail. It’s now widely understood that flying will entail hassles, inconveniences and sometimes agonizing events. Long-gone are the days when getting to your destination was part of the fun; now getting past

security screenings is usually equivalent to walking through a torture concourse.

If you’re lucky enough to be TSA pre-checked, you might get through the queue a little quicker than your non-TSA approved peers. They’re all potential criminals who will endure extra humiliation and distress to prove they are free of an unlawful agenda before they can board an aircraft. Granted, we all agree that this is necessary to ensure that true violators are prohibited from instigating violence, but the old adage that people are innocent until they’re proven guilty does not apply to anyone at an airport. And while many airport personnel are cordial and helpful, some could use a lesson in kindness and common courtesy.

Travel lines of any kind are generally long, tempers are often short and with flight delays, gate changes, missed connections and rude airline agents, it’s no wonder people are opting to “staycation.” Should that be your plan this summer, have we got a magazine for you!

Our summer “GETAWAYS AND BEACH ESCAPES” issue offers a multitude of suggestions on how to spend your vacation right here in beautiful Southern California and love every minute of it. From relaxing on the water to enjoying an afternoon on horseback, indulging in the yummiest waffles or splurging on the most unique margaritas, our recommendations might tempt you to stay in town even if you’ve already made flight arrangements. And our comprehensive beach feature will expose our broad shoreline and outline the coolest sands on which to spend those hot summer days.

We wish you a delightful mid-year holiday season whether you’ll travel far or stay close to home, and we hope this issue will help make your summer even more enjoyable than you had planned.

Warm regards,

MONIQUE REIDY

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ENCHANTING ESCAPES

Summer

Escapes

Splendor on the Sand BY

LINDA LANG

very special about a day on the beach with your significant other, family, or friends followed by a glowing sunset and dinner with the moon in a star-filled sky shimmering across water. Regardless of your destination, none are more complete with activities and nature's splendor than the golden

days of summer.

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COURTESY OF VISIT HUNTINGTON BEACH

California's coastline offers lots of great resorts for weeklong or weekend summer getaways. There's something

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: 1. The Spanish-inspired architecture of the Huntington Beach Hyatt Regency creates a warm SoCal ambience. 2. Perks at the main pool and hot tub at the Hotel del Coronado include complimentary towels, chaise lounges, kickboards and water toys. 3. Set on Butterfly Beach in Montecito, the buildings of the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara are encased by beautifully manicured gardens and walkways.

JULY.AUG UST2016

PETER VITALE COURTESY OF FOUR SEASONS

COURTESY OF HOTEL DEL CORONADO

CELEBRATE DISCOVER EXPERIENCE

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ENCHANTING ESCAPES

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Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara

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ON AMERICA'S RIVIERA lies a Spanish colonial treasure of glistening white adobe buildings with red tile roofs amid beautifullylandscaped gardens cooled by soft ocean breezes. Since opening in 1927 and managed by Four Seasons since 1987, the Four Seasons Resort Santa Barbara has long been a favorite of Hollywood's elite and other discerning travelers.

Set on Butterfly Beach in Montecito, its 207 rooms and suites with fireplaces, deep soaking tubs and French doors are decorated with historic and custom-handcrafted furnishings and art. The award-winning 10,000 sq. ft. luxury spa offers three outdoor pools, two whirlpools, a state-of-the-art gym, and poolside service including delights from Santa Barbaraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest ice cream shop. Activity options also include private beach volleyball lessons with two-time Olympian Todd Rogers, a day of surfing with hometown hero and three-time World Champion Tom Curren, tennis, fitness and yoga classes, Pilates, tennis, biking, and nearby golf, kayaking and sailing. The Monte Vista lawn, with its putting green and croquet lawn, was the setting for a wedding on The Bachelor TV show in 2014.

Perks for the kids include child-size bathrobes and complimentary children's toiletries.

Kids for All Seasons offers daily supervised activities and certified babysitting can be arranged. Cats and dogs stay for free subject to conditions and booking confirmation. www.fourseasons.com/santabarbara | 844-638-1544

ON THIS PAGE: 4. Overlooking the Pacific, Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara offers every oceanside luxury. 5. The Four Seasons Resort Santa Barbara has long been a retreat for celebs and other elite. 6. Channel Lane is one of many popular biking routes. 7. The resort's stunning beachfront Bella Vista Restaurant showcases Italian-inspired California cuisine. 8. The resort's 207 rooms and suites have beautiful ocean or garden views and every amenity.

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Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa across from the glistening sands, stands the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa. The Spanishinspired resort offers 517 rooms and suites with private balconies or patios, 42â&#x20AC;? flat screen TVs, marble bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi. The 20,000 sq. ft. Pacific Waters Spa features a sauna, steam, waterfall showers, private whirlpools, outdoor relaxation areas, a salon, and stateof-the-art fitness center.

Family fun includes Slyders Water Playground with three water slides, two splash and one wading pool, main pool, and two fire pits. For sophisticated dining, WATERTABLE, the resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new restaurant and gastro bar, is making its mark on the local dining scene. Less formal options include Pete's Sunset Grille with cuisine and drinks inspired by worldwide surfing destinations, and Mankota's Grill, named for the legendary Native American who sacrificed himself to the sea to assure perfect surfing conditions for Huntington Beach. Pete's also has a live concert series July 1 - Sept. 14 featuring The Answer, Goodfellaz, Chain Reaction, Buck Wildstar, Brad Wilson, Jumpin Jack Benny, and Instant Replay.

Toes on the Nose has onsite rentals including surfboards, body boards, wetsuits, and more. If you're interested in bike rentals or sky diving, just ask the hotel's concierge. Camp Hyatt offers supervised activities for guests ages 3-12. H www.hyatt.com/HuntingtonBeach | 714-698-1234 IN SURF CITY USA,

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ON THIS PAGE: 9. Toasting s'mores around one of the hotel's fire pits is a popular family favorite. 10. The Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa offers 517 rooms and suites with private balconies or patios. 11. Family activities often include building sandcastles other creations on the warm sand. 12. Rooms overlook the ocean and have all the modern amenities including marble bathrooms, flat screen TVs, and free W-Fi access. 13. Long stretches of pristine beach are just across the road from the Hyatt.

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Montage Laguna Beach

high above the Pacific, Montage Laguna Beach offers 30 acres of seaside luxury.

Just steps away is the town with its fine shops, galleries, dining and activities encased in seven miles of glistening sand, crashing surf, hidden coves and rolling landscapes. It's the perfect setting for biking, all water sports, golf and more.

Its elegant 248 guest rooms and suites all feature panoramic ocean views, private patios or balconies and marble baths. A great spot to enjoy a few rays or poolside cabana is the Mosaic Pool overlooking the ocean. The 20,000 sq. ft. Spa Montage offers eucalyptus steam rooms, dry redwood saunas, ocean air whirlpools, fireplace lounges, state-of-the-art fitness center, and lap pool. Dining options include Studio which showcases modern French cuisine infused with California influences. The Loft, also popular with guests and locals, offers all-day dining while the more intimate Loft Bistro has its own casual menu. Poolside dining in the Mosaic Bar and Grille features salads, grilled sandwiches, fresh seafood, and in summer, live entertainment nightly and all day Saturday and Sunday.

June 24 through August 28 is the big season for Laguna Beach art festivities. The famed Pageant of the Masters, exhibitions, workshops, and art tours and are among the daily offerings. Art-A-Fair attracts some 125 artists in all mediums who create their works as you walk among them, and The Sawdust Art & Craft features the works of more than 200 local artists. www.montagehotels.com/lagunabeach | 949-715-6000 H ON A BLUFF

ON THIS PAGE: 14. The mosaic pool is one of the resort's dramatic features. 15. The Ocean Horizon Suite is one of 248 rooms and suites furnished with every luxury. 16. The view from the spa pool is spectacular. 17. Panoramic views from the Studio restaurant's terrace are mesmerizing.

18. Dining options include Studio which showcases modern French cuisine infused with California influences.

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Hotel Del Coronado 125 years, Hotel del Coronado has epitomized luxury beach resort living. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977, it has attracted Hollywood's elite: U.S. presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt, Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter; and a long list of other notables. Its signature exterior was also the setting for Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon's 1958 film classic, “Some Like it Hot.” Today, accommodations range from historic Victorian to modern in Ocean Towers, poolside California Cabana buildings, and right on the sand, one to 3-bedroom Beach Village villas and free-standing cottages with fireplaces, marble baths, and patios or balconies.

Among a long list of activities are sunset clambakes with live music and beach games; toasting marshmallows around your private beach bonfire; relaxing poolside in a luxury cabana with a sofa lounge, large TV, refrigerator; yoga on the sand, and fitness classes on the lawn. There's biking, boogie boarding, beach spin, sailing, surfing, spin, stand-up paddleboarding, and across the street is Glorietta Marina where you can take sailing lessons, rent a speedboat, jet ski, water ski, kayak, paddleboat, fish or sail aboard a captained private yacht.

All kids receive a DelVenture Survival Pack with goodies including a Scavenger Hunt Map, and the Kidtopia activity center offers a DelVenture program for kids ages 4-12 featuring hour-long day activities and evening adventures. ❖ www.hoteldel.com | 800-468-3533 FOR MORE THAN

ON THIS PAGE: 19. Sunsets are stunning at the Del. 20. Dogs and cats are also treated royally with amenities including a pet dining menu, treats, personalized pet tags, toys, bedding and more. 21. Beach Village cottages and villas range from one to 3-bedroom and have direct beach access. 22. The Del's Beach Village accommodations open directly onto the sand. 23. For over 125 years, the iconic Hotel del Coronado has been in the forefront of the finest in luxury beach resort living.

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

Marilyn Monroe flying with American Airlines 1950s

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Living the DREAM-liner!

American

Nine Decades After Making its Inaugural Flight, Brings Back Commercial Air Travel’s Golden Era

Airlines

ERIKA THOMAS

Travelers today may be more likely to encounter long check-in lines, service fees and the rummaging of their carry on bags by airport personnel than a 5-star experience. Still there remains a more carefree time in the not so distant past, when air travel was the stuff vacation dreams were made of, when a “stewardess” was hired as much for her slender waistline and beautiful smile as she was for her customer service prowess, when Chateau Briand was served with brandy and passengers with more hardside luggage than a travel store dressed to the nines to board a plane.

Now, with its history of unrivaled attention to detail and flawless curb-to-seat service, American Airlines is bringing back that glamorous era of air travel. The airline is celebrating its ninth decade with a complete overhaul to its first class cabins, reimaging of its clubs, lounges and on-ground dining — delectable offerings from L.A.’s award-winning Roy Choi are on the menu — as well as offering an ultradiscreet, paparazzi-proof check-in at LAX, that’s sure to deter even the most persistent of Hollywood money-shot seekers.

American Airlines Managing Director of Los Angeles International Airport, Jim Moses, says, “Many years ago, travel by plane was reserved for the most affluent groups; it was for the leisurely. There were many celebrities and wealthy people who travelled, so it was a big event. For many years, people would watch a movie or they would read or converse with one another during a flight. There was no

AMERICAN AIRLINES

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“Over the last 90 years, American has

become known for the luxury travel experience.

We’re creating a five-star hotel environment on our aircrafts, with turndown service in first class, white tablecloth dining, one-to-one seating configuration for total in-flight privacy and Cadillac transfers for tight connections.” such thing as being connected. Today, the needs and wants of customers have changed. Customers, whether travelling for business or recreation, want to stay connected throughout their entire journey — even across the Atlantic and the Pacific. They expect not to miss a beat from the time they get on the plane, until the time they land.”

New services include everything from the most up-tothe-minute Wi-Fi advancements and private seating — the swanky first class cabins are comparable to that of a private jet — to organic farm-to-flight meals and expansive H

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Charles Lindbergh Robertson Aircraft

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makeovers to the already posh Admirals Club Lounge.

“Over the last 90 years, American has become known for the luxury travel experience. We’re creating a five-star hotel environment on our aircrafts, with turndown service in first class, white tablecloth dining, one-to-one seating configuration for total in-flight privacy and Cadillac transfers for tight connections. We’ve also introduced flagship dining — a first for any airline — with full tableside service for passengers who want to dine elegantly here in Los Angeles before their flight. This kind of luxury is the equivalent of the days when American transported Hollywood stars like Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe to and from Los Angeles.”

Having long been known as “The choice of more millionaires than any airline in the world,” American will also offer transcontinental flights from Los Angeles to New York on their deluxe A-321-T aircraft — the same one Lady Gaga and scads of other A-list stars boarded for their trip back from this year’s Golden Globes. And although they’ve beefed up the luxury quotient, spacing and reliability remain a priority. “In addition to the A-321-T, last year we introduced the 787 Dreamliner, an amazing wide body aircraft that’s virtually noiseless. It has much bigger windows and less air pressure to ensure that our passengers arrive at their destinations feeling more refreshed than when they boarded,” Moses notes.

American Airlines officially launched on April 15, 1926, when aviator and chief pilot of Robertson Aircraft Corporation, Charles Lindbergh, embarked on a solo journey in a DH-4 biplane from Chicago to St. Louis. The airline that would become the largest commercial carrier in the world has blazed unprecedented trails within the industry.

It would be the first to offer a retreat for travel-weary customers, introducing the Flagship Club at New York’s La Guardia Airport in 1939. In 1964, American would defy the heightened racial tensions of the day, hiring Dave Harris, the first African American pilot to fly for a commercial airline.

Moses says, “American has pioneered many firsts within the industry. We have the heritage of having hosted Hollywood royalty.

With our fine dining, lounge experience and so many other perks, we’re bringing back elegance and a return to the past, so people can truly enjoy the journey.” ❖

“American Airlines officially launched on April 15, 1926, when aviator and chief pilot

of Robertson Aircraft Corporation, Charles Lindbergh, embarked on a solo journey in a DH-4 biplane from Chicago to St. Louis.”

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DELIGHTFUL DINNERTHEATER DESTINATIONS IMAAN JALALI

COURTESY TEATRO MARTINI

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Dinner-theater establishments offer both visual and flavorful advantages. Guests dine on great food as they

enjoy a show in a creative setting and social environment. Southern California is lucky to have a variety of dinner-theater options, and patrons can choose the performance and meal combo that looks most pleasing. H

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Candlelight Pavilion Dinner Theater This prestigious venue, thanks to the diligent family behind it, has succeeded as a multifaceted fine-dining and entertainment locale for more than 31 years. It was started by Ben D. Bollinger and is now primarily run by his children – Mick Bollinger and Mindy Teuber. Mick, who also serves as the President of the NATIONAL DINNER THEATRE ASSOCIATION, handles the food and beverage and Mindy ensures that the production aspect of the shows (which take place on a full-size stage) runs smoothly.

In May, the musical, “HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING,” was a rousing success on both artistic and technical fronts. “MARY POPPINS” is playing now through July 23, followed by “FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL,” “LA CAGE AUX FOLLES,” and “SISTER ACT.” The menu is delightful, but not overwhelming. The tri-tip, fish, chicken, and vegetarian options duly satisfy. The chicken is especially wonderful; it is encased in a puff pastry in what is a perfect melding of juiciness and crunch. In addition, the tender carrots are a revelation. The secret? They're marinated in orange juice and glazed in a butter sauce.

The desserts, including the ice cream, are made in-house and not to be missed. Notables include the “PAVILION BERRY SUNDAE” and “CHOCOLATE STRAWBERRY EUPHORIA.”

JOHN LALONDE

ISAAC JAMES (2)

455 West Foothill Blvd.

Claremont, CA 91711 (909) 626-1254 ext. 1 www.thecpdt.com

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COURTESY ROCKWELL TABLE AND STAGE (4)

Chef Wayne Elias

Rockwell Table & Stage Hip and relaxed are appropriate words to describe this intimate setting, which offers an almost post-modern take on the art of live performance in conjunction with unique, but classic food items. Chef Wayne Elias has created a smorgasbord of treats, one more delicious than the other. Not to mention, the portions are generous and the presentation is always a pleasant surprise.

For instance, the mac and cheese may seriously be the best you’ve ever tasted. It is a traditional thrill done just right – creamy, but never overpowering, and somehow not too rich. Moreover, the AHI TUNA TARTARE is light, but a flavor medley just the same. It is effortlessly absorbed by the mouth, nicely balanced by the taro chips. The “GIRL AT THE MIRROR” cocktail is one of the most refreshing beverages, offering a minty sojourn with a kick of orange.

Although there is a conventional stage, there are also smaller platforms that are interspersed and integrated throughout the patron-seating arrangement. As a result, the actors are often performing in the middle of onlookers, which adds to ROCKWELL'S unique appeal. As always, the shows are fun and irreverent, running the gamut of unauthorized musical parodies, from “THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA” to “THE BIG LEBOWSKI.”

Girl at the Mirror

1714 N. Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90027 (323) 669-1550 www.rockwell-la.com

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Keith & Margo's Murder Mystery Dinner at Matteo's For more than 30 years, Keith O'Leary and Margo Morrison have been the ingenious minds behind mystery dinner gatherings all over the globe. In Los Angeles, they have a residency at MATTEO'S RESTAURANT that offers a three-course dinner amid engrossing hysteria, paranoia, surprise gun shots, and a who-done-it mystery that steers the evening.

It is a crazy and oddly exhilarating experience where the audience is the show. You may even find out that a couple sitting at your table is actually part of the proceedings. Of course, you don't discover this until the woman at your table poisons her boyfriend, who is liable to fall to the floor, breathless for air, clutching his neck. Certainly, an earnest detective is present to implore guests to aid him in deciphering clues.

2321 Westwood Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90064 (310) 836-7700 www.murdermystery.com

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Supplementing the bloodletting and blood-curdling screams are a juicy chicken and eggplant parmigiana, both with hearty helpings of mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce. Finally, a slice of tiramisu or a scoop of sorbet will sweetly accent the end of the crime story.

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Teatro Martini This PG-13 variety show â&#x20AC;&#x201C; featuring an impressive list of singers, magicians, comedians, characters, and contortionists who interact with the audience, evoking uproarious laughter, awe, and admiration. The show is organized in such a way that, at one moment, your senses will be stimulated by a man singing opera while he simultaneously removes his straitjacket, only to be followed by a gymnast doing a jaw-dropping balancing act using only a rope affixed to the ceiling. This doesn't even include the outlandishly funny portrayals of mainstream individuals and pop culture acts done in musical theater style.

Additionally, the four-course meal is thorough with standouts that include a masterfully made tomato bisque soup, a salubriously spiced roasted chicken, and a graham cracker-crusted cheesecake, which is splendidly light and fluffy. â?&#x2013;

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TEATRO MARTINI (5)

7600 Beach Blvd.

Buena Park, CA 90620 (844) 249-7865 www.teatromartini.com

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Don’t Let Politics Spoil Your Vacation

The chances are great that no matter where you go for your next vacation, the topic of our presidential election will come up. It’s almost impossible to avoid the reality of politics in the midst of a crucial election, especially one that is unique, and consuming media attention.

BY

When you do encounter people who insist on talking about the election, and you don’t want to engage in that conversation because you would really prefer to do just about anything else, you can profess to live in another country. Or, you can face it head on.

As we know, conversations about controversial topics can escalate or become “hot” when individuals are passionate about their opinions and agendas. And all too often people want to express their opinions rather than have a constructive discussion.

You certainly have a choice about whether or not to have the discussion.

Not interested? Acknowledge the other person’s desire to do so and indicate that you prefer to talk about other things.

If you choose to engage, here are a few tips to keep a political conversation on an even keel.

• Don’t waste time trying to change someone else’s opinion; individuals must change their own minds.

• Clarify expectations. Are you both genuinely interested in engaging in a constructive conversation and willing to listen and understand another person’s opinion? If not, better to do something else.

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ESTHER C. BLEUEL, MA, MFT, MDR

• Find common ground with others; there’s always something - beliefs, problems, situations or feelings.

Even if you disagree about specifics, whenever possible, connect as fellow citizens and acknowledge each another’s perspective.

• Remember, what people believe is not always actually true or accurate. Commonly held opinions are frequently just plain false and we can be influenced or persuaded by credible sources and repetition rather than by facts and reality. You might also subject your own opinions to the, “How Do I Know Test?”

What is the evidence for your viewpoint or definition of the issue?

• Always show respect and listen carefully. Take care because there are two aspects to challenging conversations, what is said and how it is said - nonverbal messages impact much more than words.

• Political conversations can be tricky with anyone, especially with family members and close friends where preserving the relationship is key. Always be kind and respectful.

Important relationships have history, both positive and negative, and a harmful interaction can impact future relationships.

• Think before you speak. Some people are willing, able and eager to engage in substantive political discussions; many are not. Some people will express an opinion without intending to have a discussion and be surprised when others disagree. When differences emerge, people may take offense or become argumentative. Consider the relationship and the desired outcome before embarking on a political discussion that may become contentious. Ask yourself, is it more important to be right or to have a good outcome?

• It’s always fine to agree to disagree and to decline a political conversation in favor of a swim or leaving for that theme park you’ve been wanting to visit. ❖

Esther C. Bleuel, MA, MFT, MDR www.ToughTalkCoach.com Conversations that work.

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FA B F I N DS

Summer Essentials

Summer is officially here! Getting outside and being active is what Southern Californians do best during these next few months. Here are some of our favorite products to make your time in the sun easy, safe and fun.

BY

NICOLE POLLASTRINI

MICHAEL ROVNYAK

Suntegrity

a The most important product you can use this summer is a broadspectrum sunscreen.

Suntegrity mineral zinc sunscreen offers full protection in a wearable cream that doesn’t go on pasty white and will keep you protected for 80 minutes at a time.

SuntegritySkinCare.com

Just Bones Boardshorts

aInstead of settling for ill-fitting boardshorts that may fall off when jumping in, there’s a boardshort that fits all shapes and sizes from Just Bones Boardwear™.

Just Bones Boardwear™ is Reinventing The Boardshort™ with its patented technology of a unique adjustable waistband that creates the perfect fit for anyone on land or in the water. You can purchase Just Bones Boardwear at: JustBonesBoardWear.com/Shop or click on the store locator to find a store near you: USTBonesBoardWear.com/Directory

Phiaton

a Hate messing with devices and getting tangled in headphone wires during your workout? Bluetooth speakers from Phiaton are sure to make your workout less complicated with their sleek design, minimal wiring and comfortable silicone tips. Amazon.com

Cabana Anna

a Spice up your summer swim style with Cabana Anna swimwear. These suits are on our must-have list for beach days!

CaSwim.com

Fake Bake

CloudLine

Hyley’s Slim Teas

a Hyley’s Slim Teas are 100% natural green teas that promote detoxification, cleansing and digestion and can be used as a great pickme-up during the day!

HyleysTeasOnline.com

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Gaiam

a If you’re looking for the perfect foam roller or a yoga mat with flair AND comfort, look no further than Gaiam.

They carry our favorite yoga and pilates gear. Gaiam.com

a Southern California is blessed with an overwhelming amount of outdoor adventures and scenic hiking trails to explore. Nothing is worse than being on the trail with blisters and achy feet. That’s why we love CloudLine’s premium merino wool hiking socks. They have the perfect amount of padding and have a breathable comfort that is far superior to regular hiking socks.

CloudLineApparel.com

a Fake Bake's newest tanning phenomenon is a "bronzing hybrid" by not only giving you that highly sought-after glow, but also providing your skin with a "fountain of youth."

The nourishing benefits of coconut oil have been captured in this Coconut Tanning Serum. Fake Bake's serum will leave your skin silky, moisturized and refreshed with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, coconut oil, glycerin and silk amino acids. The serum prevents dehydration and wrinkles while plumping and cushioning the skin. Fake Bake's healthy tanning serum is just what you need ahead of bikini and short shorts season. 5 oz. retail $31 at FakeBake.com JU LY. AUG UST2016

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Horsinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Aroun BY

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COURTESY MALIBU RIDERS

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’nd

The bond between human and horse has the potential to reach

unparalleled depths. This deep bond as

well as equestrianism has been known to provide emotional, mental, and physical health benefits.

From little girls to buff cowboys—horseback-riding is an activity that almost anyone can enjoy. H SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE

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SANTA BARBARA BEACH HORSEBACK RIDES

COURTESY SANTA BARBARA BEACH HORSEBACK RIDES (3)

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WHERE: Summerland/Santa Barbara (805) 688-5984 www.sbbeachrides.com

w Your “bucket list” dream can now be complete with a ride on horseback across the beach! On a stunning and secluded beach in Summerland, SANTA BARBARA BEACH HORSEBACK RIDES is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will inspire and invigorate you. The venue was recently featured on CNN Travel as one of the ‘3 Things You Must Do in SoCal.’ Private and small group rides up to six people are offered three times daily.

Children with prior riding experience are also welcome. Designed for eight or more people, the “Beach Party Horseback Ride” is a fun and memorable group event. The horses, food, refreshments, beach blankets and towels are included. For more opportunities, pricing, and current deals, check the website or call for information. With two ride options available—Beach or Bluffs—breathtaking views await.

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SAN DIEGO BEACH RIDES

WHERE: San Diego (619) 947-3152 www.happytrailssandiego.com

w If you have ever dreamed of riding wild and free on a horse across the sand as the waves from the ocean crash in the background — your dream can now come true! SAN DIEGO BEACH RIDES offers private guided beach and trail rides on horseback along the only beach in San Diego where you can ride a horse. Several trail and beach adventures are available to choose from. Detailed descriptions can be found online or by calling. Reservations are required and it is recommended to call at least two to three days in advance.

Lessons and other services are also available. For an additional rate, photography packages with the rides are also provided.

This is a picture-perfect outing that will leave you whistling a happy tune.

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MALIBU RIDERS

WHERE: Malibu/Agoura Hills (Malibu Creek/Paramount Ranch/ Zuma Canyon) (818) 510-2245 www.maliburiders.com

w Whether you are in the mood for a

trail ride through the park, taking a step back through time into an old western town filmed for hundreds of movies, or looking for a relaxing ride with mountain and ocean views, MALIBU RIDERS has three locations to choose from, offering a unique and memorable experience with amazing scenery that will stay with you long after the ride is over. One hour and two hour rides are available. Surrounded by nature and wildlife in many forms, each ride offered is a welcome escape from the busyness of daily life.

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SUNSET RANCH HOLLYWOOD (4)

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WHERE: Hollywood/Los Angeles (323) 469-5450 www.sunsetranchhollywood.com

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and see the iconic Hollywood sign along a unique horseback ride with incredible views of Los Angeles and the surrounding areas. For a truly unforgettable experience, SUNSET RANCH HOLLYWOOD offers a two-hour evening tour with 360-degree views of the city followed by a catered BBQ and live country music back at the ranch! In the heart of the city, right next to the big studios and Hollywood scene, this is one activity you will certainly want to add to your itinerary.

RIDE ON THERAPEUTIC HORSEMANSHIP

WHERE: Newbury Park/Chatsworth (818) 700-2971 (Chatsworth) (805) 375-9078 (Newbury Park) www.rideon.org

w If you are looking for a horseback-riding

program that specializes in adaptive or therapeutic horsemanship, look no further than RIDE ON. Offering two locations in Newbury Park and Chatsworth, the facilities contain specially trained PATH International qualified instructors providing riding instruction for both able-bodied individuals and those with varying challenges to overcome. Scholarships are available for adaptive riding lessons. â?&#x2013;

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“You can trust A Place for Mom to help you.”

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

– Joan Lunden

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

A Free Service for Families.

Call: (800) 973-5043 A Place for Mom is the nation’s largest senior living referral information service. We do not own, operate, endorse or recommend any senior living community. We are paid by partner communities, so our services are completely free to families.

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Southern California’s

Magnificent Margaritas BY

DUSTIN CLENDENEN

Caramelized Pineapple Margarita

The Gold Coast

is one of the biggest cultural melting pots in the United States, and we’re defined as much by the influence of neighboring Mexico as we are by our perpetually 72 degrees and sunny weather. Par for the course, we have some world-class food and beverages from cultures around the globe.

Here’s a roundup of some of the best margaritas in the region, each with a Southern California twist on the traditional Mexican cocktail.

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Caramelized Pineapple Margarita

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Cha Cha’s Margarita

w The Blind Burro in San Diego added a delicious, Hawaiian flavor to the Mexican libation.

Managing Partner BRINDY MILLER describes the drink as “a twist on the crisp, citrusy classic. This margarita is like a liquid massage on a tropical beach! We just wanted to expand and put a new spin on our classic and pineapple seemed like a logical connection.”

w At Cha Cha’s Latin Kitchen in Orange

County, the team cooked up their own take on a classic. Owner DON MEYERS says, “The CHA CHA is our namesake margarita, patterned after the famous Mexican cocktail, ‘THE PALOMA.’ We start off using SIETE LEGUAS PREMIUM BLANCO tequila and add ST. GERMAINE with elderflower liqueur, shake that with fresh ruby-red grapefruit juice, then top it with a sparkling grapefruit soda.”

If it sounds delicious, wait til you actually taste it!

The Blind Burro 639 J St, San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 795-7880

Cha Cha’s Latin Kitchen 110 W Birch St #7, Brea, CA 92821 (714) 255-1040

The Scorpion Bowl w Around the corner, the Cat Eye Club offers an impressive margarita boat. “We always loved the traditional tiki drink, the SCORPION cocktail, but some people aren't big into the rum scene,” MILLER explains. “A lot of places are doing punch bowls.

Why not with tequila? A margarita for two is almost anyone’s ideal, especially with a boat fruit garnish!

It's like a dream in a clam shell.”

Cat Eye Club 370 Seventh Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 330-9509 CONTINUED

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BUBBLES & BREWS

The Rancho Margarita w “Our RANCHO MARGARITA is our signature cocktail,” says Sausal’s owner and chef ANNE CONNESS. Located on El

Segundo’s Main Street, the restaurant boasts an impressive Alta California Rancho inspired menu.

Conness continues, “After much trial and error, we finally came up with a recipe that we felt struck the perfect balance: the robust agave flavor of EL JIMADOR BLANCO, offset with the sweetness of our organic agave nectar and triple sec, which in turn is balanced by the sour, fresh-squeezed citrus. Served over lots of ice and a salted rim, this is a margarita that just seems to disappear in the glass! There is no palate fatigue, no thought of ‘yeck, now I'm going to go into a sugar coma.’ Just a simple ‘I'll have another!’”

Sausal 219 Main St, El Segundo, CA 90245 (310) 322-2721

“...There is no palate fatigue, no thought of ‘yeck, now I'm going to go

into a sugar coma.’ Just a simple ‘I'll have another!’”

The 120 Margarita w Located right off the PCH in Redondo Beach, Ortega 120 offers an amazing high-end take on the traditional house margarita. “[THE 120 HOUSE MARGARITA] is a well-balanced, citrusy margarita inspired by many years behind bars that used a bottled margarita mix,” says Owner DEMI STEVENS. “I created THE 120 MARGARITA mix to match the flavor profile of the margaritas that I got tipped on the most when I bartended. We make the mix in-house everyday using fresh juices, agave nectar and a secret ingredient that we could tell you about, but then we'd have to kill you… So probably better not to ask what the secret is and just ask for a third, fourth or fifth margarita.”

Ortega 120 1814 Pacific Coast Hwy, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 (310) 792-4120

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The Berry Sanders w On the border of Beverly Hills, in West

Hollywood, plant-based staple Gracias Madre has whipped up a new margarita for summer: THE BERRY SANDERS. "For me, consuming cocktails is a very ‘in the moment’ phenomenon.

As the weather heats up, my body subconsciously wants more residual sugar, like tropical fruits and ripe red berries,” says beverage director JASON EISNER. “Strawberry harvest is at its peak right now, so it's the perfect time to enjoy them. On a personal level, the arrival of strawberries always signifies that summer is on its way, but now that I'm in my 30s, I want complexity, not just sweet. This shrub-based cocktail is a perfect compromise! The balsamic vinegar strawberry mint shrub cuts right through the rest of the beverage and dances perfectly with the tequila reposado. It almost feels like you're drinking a bright and refreshing KOMBUCHA." Gracias Madre 8905 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069 (323) 978-2170

“The balsamic vinegar strawberry mint shrub cuts

right through the rest of the beverage and dances perfectly with the tequila reposado.”

The Margarita Sampler w At Nectar in Santa Barbara, owner

APARNA SHERMAN takes the margarita game to a whole new level with a sampler of three delicious (and beautiful), unique beverages served side by side.

She explains, “[OUR SAMPLER FEATURES] mango, guava and blood orange.

We use only fresh purees for all of our margaritas and each drink is hand-crafted by our bartenders.” ❖ Nectar 20 E Cota St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 899-4694

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Duff THE GOURMAND

Celebrity Chef

How sweet it is - for viewers of “Cake Masters,” Duff Goldman’s

newest Food Network show, for those who order his amazing decorated delights, and for Goldman, himself, now living the sweet life in Southern California. H

Duff's Chocolate Cake

Goldman ROBYN FLANS HARPER COLLINS & BLAKE LITTLE BY

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HARPER COLLINS

PHOTOGRAPHS BY

CELEBRATE

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BLAKE LITTLE

AMONG THE MYRIAD OF CRAZY CAKES THEYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;VE MADE, THE MOST CHALLENGING WAS A LIFESIZE, CHAIN DRIVEN, WORKING DUCATI MOTORCYCLE WITH SPINNING BACK TIRES AND WORKING LIGHTS.

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THE GOURMAND

Duff's Chocolate Cake Slice

HARPER COLLINS

“I QUIT THAT JOB, built a website and started selling wedding cakes out of my apartment. They were really cheap, something like $2.50 a slice.”

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ow with three cake locations, two books written and a third on the way, and Duff-branded products, it’s hard to believe that onceupon-a-time, Goldman’s parents thought that if he pursued his dream to become a chef, he’d end up a dishwasher.

“They were not excited about it,” Goldman says. “My dad has a PhD in economics and he understood the mathematics of the reality of becoming a professional chef.”

They were concerned when their son didn’t have a vision. He just wanted to cook. He loved it and he was good at it.

After attending college in Baltimore where he grew up, Goldman attended the Culinary Institute of America in Napa Valley. Following a year-long stint at Napa Valley’s French Laundry he was burn-out and left questioning his career choice.

He drove to Vail, Colorado in 1998 to hang with his snowboarding buddies and contemplate his next move. Goldman learned all about making pastry at the Vail Cascade Hotel and ultimately became their executive pastry chef.

Roughly a year later, he received a call from his cousin.

“It was, ‘Dude, I just had dinner at Olives and I told (chef) Todd English about you, and he wants to see your resume.’”

Goldman was skeptical, but sent it nonetheless.

As an audition, Goldman baked for them for three days straight in Las Vegas, and they hired him for their new restaurant in Washington, D.C. He describes it as awesome, but ultimately, the lack of balance wore on him there, as well.

During his next gig as a personal chef for a family in Baltimore, Goldman decided he wanted to create a situation in which he could listen to music and bake.

So began Charm City Cakes in March, 2002.

“I quit that job, built a website and started selling wedding cakes out of my apartment,” he says. “They were really cheap, something like $2.50 a slice.”

Rent, tour and records ... music, baking and friends. He had finally found the balance he had been pursuing.

Midway through 2003 one of his musi-

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cian friends, Geof Manthorne, an architectural model builder, wanted the same freedom. He came to Goldman asking, “Can I make cakes?”

As Goldman explains, it was two dudes in bands, making crazy cakes. Not long after a guitar player friend joined in and the three lived and baked in an 1890 built brownstone that Goldman purchased.

“It was awesome,” Goldman remembers. “We were just three guys who listened to music all day. We’d decorate cakes, we’d

DISCOVER

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they were offered a television show and “Ace of Cakes” was born, lasting a successful six years.

Goldman says among the myriad of crazy cakes they’ve made, the most challenging was a life-size, chain driven, working Ducati motorcycle with spinning back tires and working lights.

“You turned the key and sound came out of it,” Goldman says.

In the summer of 2012, Goldman opened Charm City Cakes West in Los Angeles.

“We were doing a lot of business out here for movies and celebrities,” Goldman explains. “It got to the point where I was literally getting into an RV and driving cakes across country once or twice a month. It was insane.”

He also explains that they get orders from all over the world.

“If someone orders a cake in Tokyo, we have to make it in Tokyo,” Goldman says. “Going to Asia is a lot easier from Los Angeles than it is from Baltimore.”

The new location has provided a locale for his new show, “Cake Masters.” With a new crew and Hollywood influence, it can be described as “Ace of Cakes” on steroids.

“We make wild stuff,” Goldman says. “I love special effects. We did an episode recently with an artist who created the mini village of Hogsmeade for Harry Potter.”

He also opened Duff’s Cakemix, a do-it-yourself cake and cupcake decorating studio.

Goldman also moved his home to Santa Monica where he is enjoying the weather and bicycling and just getting into the new purchase of a 200 gallon fish tank, which he equates with Southern California living.

Goldman admits he’s never thought about what cake he’d order to define him.

“I don’t want a decorated cake,” he says.

“I eat like a hunchback over the sink. But definitely a happy cake.”

Ah, the sweet life! H

“We were doing a lot of business out here for movies and celebrities. It got to the point where I was literally getting into an RV and driving cakes across country once or twice a month. IT WAS

INSANE.”

have three hour lunches and watch the History Channel. We were partners.”

Goldman laughs as he tells the story about an e-mail from a 19-year-old girl wanting to intern, who turned out to be future crew member Anna Ellison. He blew her off, explaining they weren’t an official bakery and no school would accept them as an internship.

She knocked on the door three months later and she knocked their socks off when she immediately created a 3D pug dog on a cake.

Food Network’s ear was to the ground.

They heard about the bakery that Goldman describes as “all dudes in bands and girls with blue hair.”

The initial outreach was in the form of a couple of cake competitions and while they didn’t win, their unique vibe and humor made an impression. Before they knew it,

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THE GOURMAND

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-RECIPE-

I remember eating

my first funnel cake at Disneyland when I was super young. Later, when I made my own funnel cakes, I remember eating my first one, and I tried hard to make them extra awesome because I was probably making someone else’s first funnel cake and I remembered how awesome mine was.

Make life easy for yourself and prep four or five disposable plastic piping bags with batter. Funnel cakes can be very messy to make, and this will totally help. —Duff

FUNNEL CAKES Makes 8

• 1 quart vegetable oil • 3 cups all-purpose flour • 2 teaspoons baking powder • 1 teaspoon kosher salt • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1/2 cup granulated sugar • 3 extra-large eggs • 2 cups milk or cream • 2 cups powdered sugar 1. Add the oil to a deep pot and heat it over medium-high heat until it registers 375˚F on a deep-fry thermometer. Set up a work surface with 4 or 5 plastic piping bags, scissors, tongs, parchment paper, and a wire rack with parchment paper underneath.

2. In a big bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and granulated sugar. Add the eggs and milk and whisk well.

Get all the lumps out!

3. Fill all the piping bags with batter. Cut the tip off one bag and drizzle the batter straight into the hot oil in a swirly, crazy pattern. Toss the piping bag. When one side is golden brown, about 75 seconds, carefully flip the funnel cake with tongs and fry the other side, another 75 seconds. Fry the rest of the batter.

4. Drain the funnel cakes on the wire rack. While they’re still warm and shiny, dust them with powdered sugar using a wire-mesh strainer.

Serve immediately! ❖

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COURTESY OF VISIT REDONDO BEACH

COV E R STO RY

The Redondo Pier offers assorted eateries, shopping, kayak and other equipment rentals.

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SoCalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Beaches BY

LINDA LANG

There's something about wriggling your toes in the sand,

feeling the water swirl around your ankles, the thrill of surfing, children building sand castles, a fast game of beach volleyball, and relaxing with good friends around a crackling bonfire under the stars after the sun slips into the sea. H

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COVER STORY

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Redondo Beach is one of the few

California cities boasting a long sandy beachfront, marina, and a pier.â&#x20AC;?

COURTESY OF VISIT REDONDO BEACH (3)

The Redondo Beach waterfront is filled with activity.

T

here is no question that our Southern California shores are lined with dozens of magnificent beaches offering spectacular settings and activities for everyone. Some are ideal for swimming and family outings. Others are known for surfing and boogie boarding.

The beach volleyball courts are especially popular with those seeking a good workout and opportunities to mingle. And if your furry pal loves to romp in the surf, a number are dog friendly.

The calm waters and facilities of Seaside Lagoon are ideal for families.

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Beachside weddings in Redondo Beach and other seaside settings are especially romantic in summer.

REDONDO BEACH is one of the few California cities boast-

ing a long sandy beachfront, marina, and a pier. With its laidback beach lifestyle and spectacular scenery, it has become a supporting star in its own right having appeared as the background in hit movies such as Catch Me if You Can, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End, Dragnet, and TV settings for Baywatch, Dexter, CSI: Miami, Glee, Biggest Loser and dozens more.

Stretching from Redondo Pier to the Palos Verdes Peninsula, the coastline offers stunning land and seascapes plus great spots such as Redondo Beach Jetty which attracts the surfers.

Further north, the pier is home to waterfront eateries, shopping, entertainment as well as kayak, canoe, pedal boat, SUP and other rentals. AVENUE C BEACH is less crowded and where you'll find volleyball nets. A short walk from the pier is the SEASIDE LAGOON with lifeguards, children's play area, snack bars, volleyball courts and grass area with luau shelter for birthdays and other events. This year also marks the first Summer Movie Series at the lagoon. Held every Friday in July, pix include Grease, ET, Frozen, The Sandlot, and Back to the Future. www.visitredondo.com/beach.html

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VENICE BEACH is unlike any other in the world. Only here does boardwalk activity upstage the white sand and rolling waves. Ocean Front Walk's 3/4-mile boardwalk is a continual spectacle of eclectic artists, barefoot sand sculptors, skaters, scooters, hoopsters, preening weightlifters, and more against a backdrop of shops, fast-food eateries and flea markets. In addition, there's Muscle Beach; handball, paddle tennis, and beach volleyball courts; Skate Dancing Plaza; and basketball courts renowned for producing numerous NBA players. Venice Breakwater is the local surf spot north of Venice Pier. It's also been home to prominent residents including Julia Roberts, Nicolas Cage, Kate Beckinsale, John Frusciante of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Arnold Schwarzenegger during his body-building days. www.venicebeach.com/about

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“Only here does boardwalk activity upstage the white sand and rolling waves.”

The memorial of Tim Kelly, legendary lifeguard and surf hero, watches over Hermosa Beach.

ERIC STITT, HERMOSA BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

COURTESY OF THE HERMOSA BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (2)

COURTESY OF THE LOS ANGELES TOURISM AND CONVENTION BOARD (2)

CELEBRATE

HERMOSA BEACH, nestled between

Hermosa Beach's Pier Avenue behind the beachfront is lined with shops and eateries.

Hermosa Beach is a mecca for beach volleyball.

Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach, is especially known for beach volleyball as well as being great for surfing, paddle boarding, family activities, and a very active social scene after dusk. The action centers on Pier Avenue with its diverse restaurants, shops, and along The Strand, aka the 22-mile Marvin Braude Bike Trail, you'll see people jogging, walking, skating, and biking with their partners and fur babies on leashes or secured in bike baskets. www.discoverlosangeles.com/blog/walkingtour-hermosa-beach H SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE

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MARK WEBER, VISIT SANTA BARBARA

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In an inlet protected from harsh currents, swells, and harbor activity, SANTA BARBARA'S EAST, WEST and LEADBETTER BEACHES along the city's

The Cabrillo bike path links all three beaches for runners, walkers, cyclists and inline skaters.

If you want to share the day with your four-legged pal, Santa Barbara's HENDRY'S BEACH below the Douglas Family Preserve is the only one where dogs can legally run off leash. www.bringfido.com/attraction/574

Adjacent to Ventura Harbor Village are some of VENTURA COUNTY'S premier beaches. HARBOR COVE BEACH, being one of Ventura's safest, is also known as “Mother’s Beach”. The surf-free lagoon is perfect for families, swimmers, kayakers, SUPs and offers beautiful views of the coastline. Lifeguards, restrooms and foot showers are available, and for a snack and a little shopping, Ventura Harbor Village is just across the street.

There's also a wheelchair aisle for those with limited mobility. Biking, jogging paths and beach volleyball are nearby. www.venturaharborvillage.com/directory/harbor-cove-beach-mothers-beach

Harbor Cove Beach, being

one of Ventura's safest, is also known as “Mother’s Beach.”

STEVE SCHAFF, VENTURA HARBOR VILLAGE

Ventura Harbor Village is within easy walking distance of the beaches.

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JAY SINCLAIR, VISIT SANTA BARBARA

downtown waterfront offer activities for all. Next to Stearns Wharf with its eateries and specialty shops, you'll find great spots for swimming, sailing, kayaking, Sunsets by Stearns Wharf windsurfing, SUPs and are mesmerizing. other watersports. Boat and board rentals are right on the sand and volleyball courts are nearby. On the Cabrillo bike path along the palm-lined waterfront traversing all three beaches, you can bike or join runners, walkers, cyclists and skaters. www.santabarbara.com/activities/beaches

Further south is SURFER’S POINT, one of California’s premier surfing spots. Also known as C-street, surfers flock here year-round. While not a spot for swimming, you can fly kites and in the neighboring Promenade Park you'll find picnic tables, grills and restrooms. www.ventura.com/activities/beaches/surferspoint H

Dogs are welcome to enjoy most sailing activities.

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JAY SINCLAIR, VISIT SANTA BARBARA

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“Consistently voted one of America’s finest beaches by The Travel Channel,

Enjoying the surf, sun and sand on the beach at The Del.

Coronado’s beaches span from Silver Strand State Beach to Coronado Municipal Beach.”

San Diego's nationally-renowned ORIGINAL DOG BEACH, aka Ocean Beach, was one of the first official leash-free beaches in the U.S. Dogs can roam off leash at any time and when the day ends, you can head over to the Dog Beach Dog Wash (two blocks away) and give your four-legged friend a bath. www.bringfido.com/attraction/53 Consistently voted one of America’s finest beaches by The Travel Channel,

CORONADO’S beaches span from Silver Strand State Beach to Coronado

Municipal Beach — all with gentle waves, wide open spaces, and stunning views. Coronado Central Beach is a haven for all — swimmers, bodysurfers, boogie boarders, sand sculptors, tide pool explorers, and at the far end of North Beach is canine heaven where leashless pooches can frolic in the sand and surf. www.ecoronado.com/coronado-island-beaches.

Enjoy and don't forget the sun screen. ❖

Surfing is one of the many beach activities offered

by Hotel Del Coronado.

COURTESY DALE PORTER, LOEWS SURF DOG COMPETITION

Minutes from downtown SAN DIEGO is MISSION BAY, the world's largest aquatic park of its kind. Covering 4,200 acres, its winding shoreline and beaches are connected by waterways, inlets and islets. There's something for every age and skill-level from kayaking and stand up paddle boarding in the bay, jet skiing, kite surfing, snorkeling to riding the waves, boogie boarding and surfing at adjacent PACIFIC BEACH. You can also bike, jog, skate, picnic, barbeque and enjoy bonfires by the water. Mission Bay is also home to SeaWorld San Diego. www.sandiego.gov/lifeguards/beaches/mbay

Buddy, "The Ambassador of Dog Surfing" and first to be inducted into the Surf Dog Hall of Fame is a SoCal beach legend.

COURTESY ORANGEANDPARK.COM

JOHN BAHU COURTESY OF SANDIEGO.ORG

San Diego's Mission Bay is the world's largest aquatic park of its kind.

Sunset over Coronado Beach.

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“#1 HAPPY HOUR ON THE WESTSIDE TO CATCH A SUNSET” — Time Out Los Angeles With Happy Hour seven days a week from 3:30 -7p, and sweeping marina views, it’s no wonder why the Westside loves us.

Don’t miss live music on the patio every Saturday 11a - 2p for a special brunch with friends on Mothers Beach, or game time on one RI RXU EUDQG QHZ ÁDW VFUHHQV LQ WKH EDU Enjoy expertly prepared market-fresh produce and locally caught VHDIRRG IURP %UHDNIDVW (QFKLODGDV WR 3DQ 5RDVWHG 3DFLÀF 0DKL 0DKL

BEACHSIDE RESTAURANT | 14160 PALAWAN WAY INSIDE THE JAMAICA BAY INN ON MOTHERS BEACH (310) 493-3033 | JAMAICABAYINN.COM Open Daily for Brunch from 6:30A - 2:30P Happy Hour and Dinner from 3:30P - 10:00P Open until 11:00P Friday & Saturday

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F I V E FAV E S

Waffle Wows!

BY

LISA KESTENBAUM

In its home country of Belgium, the waffle reigns as street king. Sure, it makes its way onto many a breakfast and even lunch plate but in its truest form, it’s light, flakey, somewhat salty and certainly not accompanied by maple syrup. Somewhere along the waffle’s path to stardom, it became known as a confectioner’s treat, often topped with whipped cream and powdered sugar. And while many restaurants still serve the waffle as a sweet alternative to bacon and eggs, we found a number of Southern California spots that dish up delectable varieties, ranging from savory and simple to stuffed with fried chicken. Here are our picks for the best of the brunch – er, bunch.

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BOB HODSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Original Fried Chicken Bruxie

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WOW WOW WAFFLES Co-owners Joseph Kraft and Todd Cassleberry bring the European delicacy to San Diego residents at their North Park outpost, Wow Wow Waffles. There, they serve a specific type of Belgian waffle, the Liège, which is made from dough (yeast and Belgium pearl sugar) instead of batter (water and flour). “When you have it for the first time,” says Banks, “you feel like you’ve been cheated your whole life by the waffle world.” Since the baking process mirrors more that of sourdough than a short stack, Wow Wow is only open four days each week (three on the books, one secretly for locals) – these waffles sell out fast. The menu is partially inspired by San Diego’s farmers markets, where Joseph and his wife pick up locally grown products and integrate them into the dishes. The “Number Seven” is their best seller – it includes bacon baked in brown sugar, avocado and goat cheese to create the perfect, elevated street snack.

BRUXIE’S WAFFLES Carolina BBQ Pulled Pork

BOB HODSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Turkey Club

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At Bruxie’s Waffles, which originated in Old Towne Orange and now boasts seven locations across Orange County, and out to Santa Monica and Las Vegas, longtime chefs and friends Kelly G. Mullarney and Dean Simon base their inventive waffles off of the Brussels-style variety, which is light and intended to be eaten on the go.

To emphasize this, Mullarney started playing around with traditional American sandwich recipes (think PB&J) and created his signature Bruxie, or what’s commonly referred to as the “Bold Fold.”

“The batter itself is light, crispy and has a crepe texture on the inside,” Mullarney explains. “It’s savory. As we evolved, we realized we should just make great waffles with a playful menu.” One of his favorites is the Carolina BBQ Pulled Pork Bruxie. Another is their deconstructed chicken and waffle, which is a light chicken breast marinated in a spicy buttermilk brine and double fried, coupled with chili honey and cider coleslaw to give it texture.

It’s this version that outsells the other creative concoctions, which include a spin on green eggs and ham, a tuna melt and chicken club. “I take a cue from our guests,” says Mullarney. “Everything we do is with them in mind. At heart I’m all about freshness, organic and high-quality ingredients.” H

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CHEEKY’S Similarly, at Cheeky’s in Downtown Palm Springs, Chef/Owner Tara Lazar uses seasonal ingredients from the Monday morning farmer’s market for menu inspiration. At this retro-inspired, popular hot spot, guests enjoy crispy buttermilk waffles (there is a gluten free option available) with fancy salted butter and Vermont maple syrup. It’s basic but still Lazar’s favorite item on their quirky menu. Diners here can also enjoy the weekly waffle, which varies from blood orange curd to savory buckwheat with smoked salmon and homemade crème fraiche. “We take our waffles seriously,” Lazar (half) joked. With a menu that changes weekly, it’s advisable to get there fast and get there often!

OFEARTHLYDELIGHTS.ORG

BRU’S WIFFLE Bru’s Wiffle – A Waffle Joint in Los Angeles (one location in Santa Monica, the other in Beverly Hills) has a vast menu of breakfast options, although the waffle creations certainly take center stage.

With everything from the Hot Mama (a jalapeño and smoked bacon waffle topped with cheddar cheese, a fried egg and pico de gallo) to a smoked salmon waffle scramble, there is something for everyone at this cozy and always bustling spot. Creator and owner Ebru Fidan Caplan strives to make guests feel comfortable, while keeping them on their toes with curious and strange dish combinations (one popular menu item combines banana and bacon on a waffle). Be sure to arrive early, as Bru’s does not take reservations.

MAC N CHEESE AFTER DARK For those in search of a waffle during the late night, as opposed to the late morning hours, Mac N Cheese After Dark in Santa Barbara offers just that. Directly next door to Velvet Jones, a State Street bar and live music venue, this 9:00p.m.-3:00a.m. spot is a go-to if you’re hungry for a little something sweet after a night out. Guests love the S’mores waffle, which packs marshmallows, cookie butter and Nutella between two crispy waffles. It’s impossible to resist and puts you in just the right mood to look forward to an equally delicious breakfast version for your next meal. So whatever the time, day or night, that your hunger clock hits waffle:30, rest assured these SoCal spots will satisfy your every craving! ❖ 70

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THE HOOD

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: 1. The

International Surfing Museum began its Walk of Fame in 1994 and Hall of Fame in 2002. 2. Kite flying is as popular with kids as grownups. 3. The city offers lot of shops, boutiques, national chains and more.

4. Bikers often take a break and walk along the surf. 6. This iconic bronze statue of an unnamed naked surfer was created in 1976 by Edmond Shumpert. 5. Huntington Beach also has canals you can enjoy by gondola.

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1

Huntington Beach

Surf City USA BY

LINDA LANG

VISIT HUNTINGTON BEACH

PHOTOS COURTESY OF

It takes you back to the

last half of the 20th century when 2 the endless summer ruled and California beach culture flourished. With more than eight miles of wide, white sand beaches washed by gentle waves and crashing surf, balmy weather, and casual lifestyle, Huntington Beach has long attracted families, teens, millennials, water sports and volleyball enthusiasts who enjoy the best of year-round beach living. There are lots of activities, great shopping, wining and dining, mesmerizing scenery, spectacular sunsets and moonlit nights.

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Recently named Time Magazine’s “Best Beach in America,” Huntington Beach, aka Surf City USA, is home to the US Open of Surfing, AVP Pro Beach Volleyball, and other major international sporting events. It also boasts one of the largest recreational piers in the world; a marina; 8-mile oceanfront trail for biking, skating, jogging, walking; great shopping; wining and dining; active nightlife as well as riding stables, equestrian trails, and a wildlife preserve.

It all began in the 1960s when songs like "Surf City," written by the Beach Boys' Brian Wilson and Jan Berry and recorded by Jan and Dean in 1963, became the first surf song to become a national number one hit. In 1991, Dean Torrence moved to Huntington Beach and encouraged town officials to officially nickname it "Surf City USA". Today, many businesses incorporate "Surf City, USA" in their names.

Another notable resident was Corky Carroll, a professional American surfer who repeatedly won just about every award during his 1959-1972 career. In 1959, at age 11, he placed third in the inaugural US Surfboard Championship at Huntington Beach, the first major surf competition ever held in California. Now the largest action sports event in North America, this year's Vans US Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach is being held July 23-31. It is also the sixth stop on the Women’s Samsung Galaxy Championship Tour and includes a Men’s QS 10,000 event and combined Pro Junior event. For more history, Surf City USA's International Surfing Museum displays memorabilia and some of surfing's most significant artifacts including Duke Kahanamoku's surfboard; a guitar belonging to Dick Dale, The King of the Surf who produced surf music's first album; the camera Bruce Brown used to film "Endless Summer" and much more. Admission is free. For first-hand experience, you can also attend Corky Carroll's surf school. H SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE

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“Dining options include nearly 300 restaurants offering everything from casual to fine cuisine and just about every specialty.”

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WHERE TO STAY AND PLAY Visitors to Huntington Beach have a vast variety of options when planning their stays.

Accommodations range from RV camping and budget motels to surfside boutiques such as Kimpton's Shorebreak by Main Street just across from the pier, and deluxe oceanfront resorts like the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach. Very family friendly, the Hyatt's Slyders playground features three water slides, two splash pools, a main pool, shallow children's wading pool, and two firepits.

Also just opened on Pacific Coast Highway by Pacific City is the new 250-room four-star PasĂŠa Hotel & Spa with its panoramic ocean views and luxurious amenities.

Attracting some 11 million visitors annually, the famed Huntington Beach Pier is packed with trendy shops, eateries and activity day and night during the summer. It extends out from Huntington State Beach along which there is ample parking for swimmers, bodysurfers, boogie boarders, and surf fishing aficionados. On the beach you'll find beach volleyball courts, more than 500 bonfire rings, public restrooms, showers, picnic areas, barbecue grills, biking path, concessions, and basketball courts. At the north end is Bolsa Chica State Beach where surfing schools train beginners to ride the smaller waves. Huntington Dog Beach, between Seapoint Avenue and 21st Street, is one of the few where dogs can play off leash, making it highly popular with canines and their humans.

Local shops and boutiques, complemented by national chains and department stores, have just been joined by Pacific City across from the pier. Here you'll find everything from the upscale Equinox fitness club and unique shops to first-to-market restaurants and other eateries with progressive menus including Lot 579, a unique artisanal market offering everything from gourmet sandwiches to the freshest sea-to-table fish and creative beach fare ranging from tacos to meat pies. H

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CLOCKWISE FROM OPPOSITE UPPER LEFT: 7. Surf City offers eight miles of superb beaches including this one at the Hyatt. 8. Kimpton's Shorebreak Hotel by Main Street overlooks the beach and pier. 9. Surfing is a major attraction at Huntington Beach. 10. July 4th festivities include a fireworks show off the pier.

11. Concessions line sections of the biking trail. 12. The new PasĂŠa Hotel & Spa just opened near Pacific City. 13. Surfing lessons are also available from Toes on the Nose in the Hyatt. 14. The Huntington Beach Pier is one the city's iconic landmarks. 15. AVP is the premier US pro beach volleyball competition. 16. The luxurious Hunting Beach Hyatt Regency is right on the beach. 17. Dog Beach is one of the few that allows canines to run off leash.

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AFTER THE SUN SETS Surf City USA has a very active nightlife. Dining options include nearly 300 restaurants offering everything from casual to fine cuisine and just about every specialty. Choose from sports bars, lounges, and wine bars to live music, dancing, and comedy nights. New finds include Treehouse Lounge at Tanner's rooftop patio bar at the new PasĂŠa; The Bungalow, hospitality guru Brent Bolthouse's new oceanfront venue in Pacific City; OPM, a chic new lounge and tapas place serving an eclectic interpretation of New American cuisine with international influences; upscale Red Chair Lounge at the Hyatt Regency; and SeaSalt Woodfire Grill featuring live wood-fire grilling.

You can also ride the mechanical bull at Black Bull Chop, head to SUNSET BEACH and check out Turc's Cocktails, the island ambience at Don the Beachcomber, and Brix Brews with it large selection of wines and brews on tap. For family nights, there's Bella Terra's movie multiplex and FuZion which offers laser tag, arcade games, mini bowling, and it's there you'll find the Surf City Comedy Club on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

If you're from out of town, Huntington Beach is perfectly located for you to see other regional attractions such as Disneyland, San Diego Zoo, Sea World, Legoland, Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific or head to North Hollywood to visit Universal Studios. â?&#x2013;

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For a complete visitors guide, check out www.surfcityusa.com 22

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: 18. Main Street Wine Company is the only Wine Bar/Retail Wine shop in downtown Surf City. 19. Surf City USA has a very active nightlife.

20. Nightlife in Huntington Beach offers lots of activity. 21. The mixed grill is a popular favorite at Sandy's near the pier. 22. Each sunset paints the sky in mesmerizing colors.

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5 Blissful Botanical Gardens BY

IMAAN JALALI

COURTESY FULLERTON ARBORETUM (3)

The wonderful climate-friendly region of Southern California is home to an array of botanical gardens that celebrate the numerous, distinct, and colorful flora represented by nature.

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This former mansion, now a public celebration of Virginia Robinson's love of

DIANE JENKINS

botany on the property for more than 66 years, offers unique botanical gifts.

1/ FULLERTON ARBORETUM 1900 Associated Rd. Fullerton, CA 92831 (657) 278-3407 fullertonarboretum.org

a Located on the Cal State Fullerton campus, this 26-acre oeuvre to plant life has been transformed into a precious academic learning ground for students who are interested in botany, water conservation, and agricultural history. Much of the edification is done inside two museums on the land – the ORANGE COUNTY AGRICULTURAL and NIKKEI HERITAGE MUSEUM and the HERITAGE HOUSE, which was a home built by its resident physician in 1894.

Since 1979, visitors have been learning about the 4,000 or so plant species to be observed as they traipse through four categorized sections – Cultivated, Woodlands, Mediterranean, and Desert plant life.

Furthermore, the arboretum is home to trees, shrubs, and conifers that are especially native to Southern California. Fruits and vegetables, like citrus and avocados, round out the selection of edible plant life. H SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE

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2/VIRGINIA ROBINSON GARDENS

1008 Elden Way Beverly Hills, CA 90210 (310) 550-2068 robinsongardens.org

DIANE JENKINS

a This former mansion, now a public celebration of VIRGINIA ROBINSON'S love of botany on the property for more than 66 years, offers unique botanical gifts. Some of these include the largest choral tree in California, a renowned palm garden, kitchen garden (with vegetables), and a multi-colored wild garden. In addition, there is a gorgeous double-axial view of magnolia and cypress trees, a Moreton Bay Fig Tree, a view of CATALINA ISLAND on clear-skied days, and the biggest prize on the lot, a Walking Fig Tree that resembles a giraffe.

The home is also enriched by a history rooted in Hollywood. For instance, Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford, who used to live nearby, along with stars such as Charlie Chaplin, would often have lunch at Virginia and Harry Robinson's pool pavilion on summer days.

Currently, there are many tours held here, including ones for elementary and middle school students, as well as ones geared toward philanthropy, like the 28th Annual Garden Tour which was held on May 14th.

3/SHERMAN LIBRARY AND GARDENS

KATY TIEU (2)

2647 East Coast Highway Corona Del Mar, CA 92625 (949) 673-2261 slgardens.org

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a With a cost of only $5 per person, there are few places that compare in terms of recreational and educational value.

There are a myriad of orchids and begonias to behold, a small library to relax in, and, for those who might be hungry, CAFÉ JARDIN and the TEA GARDEN CRÊPERIE are on the property. Both serve menu items (i.e., Baked Beet Salad, Quiche Du Jour) made from only the finest California-grown vegetables.

Highlights of the tour include the visually and olfactory-pleasing TROPICAL CONSERVATORY, the SPECIMEN SHADE GARDEN, and, perhaps best of all, a tranquil koi (fish) pond to observe and meditate on.

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4/ LOTUSLAND

Cold Springs Rd. Montecito, CA 93108 (805) 969-9990 lotusland.org

LOTUS LAND (2)

a This exotic place, nestled in a Montecito residential neighborhood, is the botanical dream of European émigré, Ganna Walska, whose history with the property is actually preceded by her own reputation as one of Europe's most famous opera talents.

From the moment she purchased the property in 1941, she dedicated her life's purpose to the 37-acre project, which now includes 3,000 different species of plants and 18 themed gardens. Undoubtedly, the theatre garden, blue garden (featuring blue agaves and blue atlas cedars), aloe garden, Japanese garden (done in the style of feng shui), and the breathtaking cactus garden are among Lotusland's most awe-striking sights.

Polish-born Walska, a luxurious woman of the arts, who at one point had her own line of perfume, was not tied to her material possessions when it came to LOTUSLAND. In fact, she sold off much of her rare and extravagant jewelery to populate the premises with her favorite plant species – cycads.

5/BALBOA PARK GARDENS RICHARD BENTON (2)

1549 El Prado San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 239-0512 balboapark.org/in-the-park/gardens

a The variety offered by this horticultural expanse makes the BALBOA

PARK GARDENS one of San Diego's can't-miss destination points.

What sets this location apart from other botanical gardens in Southern California is not only the rolling landscape, but the 19 gardens – each very different in their own regard – that provide a snapshot into nature's very best. THE ALCAZAR GARDEN, for instance, is a chromatic pantheon of annuals; the Trees for HEALTH GARDEN provides insight into plants with healing properties; the ZORO GARDEN is comprised of nectar plants for butterflies; and the historic BOTANICAL BUILDING is immortalized by its lily pond and lagoon-views.

THE DESERT GARDEN is rife with succulents and is a prime example of how a waterconserving garden can be just as beautiful as its water-fed counterpart. There are innumerable trees on site, many of them personally selected by the revered “mother” of the gardens, Kate Sessions. PALM CANYON – it's trail, and the 450 palms contained in it – is indicative of all the love poured into this area. ❖ 84

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Fun In the Sun BY

MACKENZIE MILLER

Southern California offers families an array of year-round fun in the sun activities from Santa Barbara to San Diego. There are many great harbors

and beaches that are family friendly and offer an opportunity for your kids to enjoy the beautiful Pacific Ocean while also learning a thing or two. Activities at Southern California beaches and harbors can range from paddleboarding to kayaking, whale watching to fishing, exploring tide pools to witnessing fish migration and spawning, sailing and windsurfing, to just plain ole swimming. Always remember to wear your sunscreen and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to check the water quality ratings before you go if it has rained recently because when it comes to our kiddos, safety always comes first. H JU LY.AUGUST2016

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Dana Point Harbor

Marina Del Rey Harbor

For boating, whale watching, fishing expeditions, and more:

For recreational activities including paddle boarding, kayaking, sailing and more:

Dana Point Harbor

www.danapointharbor.com Dana Point is known for its amazing whale watching tours. With the ancient Gray Whales migrating from November through April and the Blue Whales visiting from May to November, your family has the opportunity to see one of the biggest mammals on the planet right here in our own Southern California back yard. Orcas have also been spotted.

Marina Del Rey Harbor

www.visitmarinadelrey.com/ outdoor-recreation/on-the-water From cruises, boat rentals, parasailing, sport fishing, and a waterbus, Marina del Rey offers it all. Tours can take you and the family all through the marina to see dolphins, sea birds, sea lions, seals, and more just by trolling along through the marina. Others take on the deep blue sea for sportfishing, and more.

Santa Barbara Harbor and Sterns Warf

www.santabarbaraca.gov The rich waters surrounding Santa Barbara give families the opportunity to get adventurous and up close with an array of sea life. Family members can

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fish, sail, powerboat or catamaran. For boating tours, families have the option of a coastal, harbor, Islands, sunset dinner or whale watching cruise. Channel Islands also offers a great place to take kayaking, diving and sailing lessons together as a family.

San Diego Harbor

san-diego-attractions.10-best.info/ harbor.html The San Diego Harbor is home to Embarcadero Marina Park which is a great place for the family to run around and play. The Coronado Ferry and Harbor Cruises depart from the Broadway Pier. The Star of India is also located here where the entire family can board and learn of San Diego’s maritime history.

Dana Point Harbor

www.danapointharbor.com Baby Beach at the Harbor is a designated waveless swimming beach, perfect for families with young children. Families can paddleboard, kayak, and use small non-motorized dinghies.

Mother’s Beach Marina Del Rey

www.californiabeaches.com/beach/ mothers-beach-2 Mother’s Beach has a roped off swimming and wading area on the calm waters of the Marina Del Rey Harbor.

It offers swimming (no surf), children's playground, picnic tables, windsurfing, kayaking, free boat launch for hand-carried boats, restaurants, hotels, restrooms, showers, stand-up paddleboarding, volleyball, sunbathing, windsurfing, biking, and skating. The warm waters also bring in sea life for spawning during the summer months.

Mission Bay Park

www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/ parks/regional/missionbay At Mission Bay Park you can swim, sun, and rent boats to explore the thousand of acres of waterways. You can also rent sailboats, or enjoy biking, walk paths, basketball courts, and playgrounds. ❖

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Summer Gift Guide

Whether attending a wedding, bridal shower or a neighborhood barbeque, showing up empty-handed is a social no-no.

We’ve uncovered cool new items ready to wrap and present at any special event where something is in order.

Jose Cuervo Ready To Drink Margaritas

A margarita is the perfect cocktail for a girls’ night - especially as we are now hitting the Spring/Summer months.

While the ingredients for a margarita are pretty minimal, some of us prefer the convenience of a pre-made mix more time to focus on creating the perfect playlist and making guacamole of course! But with so many different margarita mixes out there, it can be difficult finding the best option that suites your needs in addition to a tequila that pairs well.

Skip the headache and multiple trips to the liquor store - introducing, Jose Cuervo Ready To Drink Margaritas. Play bartender, simply add ice and you’ve got yourself a delicious Margarita - with flavors such as White Peach, Pink Lemonade, Sparkling Paloma, Watermelon and Classic, you’ll be sure to satisfy everyone’s palate. ($15.99)

Trekz Titanium

AAAH!-larm Safety is always #1. That’s why we love this AAAH!-larm by Blingsting. This personal alarm keychain is trendy, comes in a variety of colors and will keep you feeling safe walking to and from the gym or while exercising outdoors. $22.00 www.Blingsting.com

Dakota Watch Company

Headphones

Trekz Titanium headphones are the safest and in some states the only legal way to tune in to music or a phone call. Designed to ensure the ultimate level of awareness and comfort without compromising on premium sound, Trekz Titanium are wireless, open ear sport headphones made to ensure the safety of runners, cyclists, hikers and more. Trekz Titanium with PremiumPitch+™delivers exceptional sound quality with AfterShokz’ patented technology, delivering dynamic range and truly powerful bass. www.aftershokz.com/collections/wireless/products/trekz-titanium. MSRP $129.99

KRUPS EA81 Essential Espresso Machine Make creamy drinks, and enjoy rich flavor with this KRUPS EA81 Espresso Machine. The intuitive LCD display makes it simple to pick out the recipe you want, and offers drinks like espresso, ristretto, cappuccino and more with just a touch of the button. Available for $699.99 at Bed Bath and Beyond.

• Patented revolutionary compact thermoblock system • LCD display screen for easy set-up and beverage selection • Programmable clock, auto-start and auto-off • 1.8 Liter transparent water tank with empty water tank detection • Transparent bean container with 275 gram capacity • Removable cake container with 14 cake capacity • Removable drip tray with integrated floater to signal when tray needs to be emptied • Adjustable dispenser height (65-105 mm) to avoid splashes • Multi-directional steam nozzle for quickly creating milk based drinks • Hot water function • On/Off switch with blue pilot light

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These timepieces resemble high-end pieces at an affordable price point, offering exceptional quality and expert service. The services are hands on and personalized, offering customers a live person instead of an automated system. Clean simplistic designs and accents add a crisp finish to finish to any outfit. Dakota Watches offers trendy time piece accessories which are high style at an affordable price. The Ladies Leather Cord ($49.95) by Dakota Watches has dual genuine leather cords encircling the side of the case for an interesting minimalistic fashion look. www.dakotawatch.com

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FOAPOM.COM

ON THE CALENDAR

july /august 2016

Pageant of the Masters

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ON THE CALENDAR

Orange County Fair July 15 – August 14 www.ocfair.com Celebrating its 126th anniversary, the ninth largest fair in the country returns with its traditional lineup of competitive exhibits, carnival rides, shopping, food and concerts.

Artist: Les Salva

Laguna Art-A-Fair Through August 28 www.art-a-fair.com This event gives art lovers an opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture of the area.

Laguna Art-A-Fair has events planned throughout the summer to celebrate its 50 years. Events include live art auctions, wine event, gold-themed party, collaborations with other festivals and more.

Pageant of the Masters July 7 – August 31 www.lagunafestivalofarts.org Classic paintings and sculptures are brought to life in an outdoor theater by actors posing in elaborate makeup and beautifully crafted sets that re-create works by the old masters and other talented artists. This year’s show will focus on dynamic duos.

Imperial Beach Sun and Sea Festival July 15-16 www.sunandseafestival.com The 2-day sandcastle creation celebration features master sculptors from around the world as well as competitions for kids. Other attractions include a pancake breakfast, the evening Sandcastle Ball, a parade and an awards ceremony.

Love Long Beach Celebration July 16 & 17 www.lovelongbeachcelebration.com This free two-day event celebrates the best of Long Beach, with art, music, arts and crafts village, food, farmers market, luau, sports, dog events and more. There will be a Beach Dance Party Saturday Night with a fire show and Burning Man. This event benefits Children Today.

626 Night Market July 22-24 and August 5-7 www.626nightmarket.com Now in its 5th season, 626 Night Market is the original and largest Asian-themed night market in the U.S. It boasts hundreds of food, merchandise, crafts, arts, games, music, and entertainment attractions. The weekends aim to unite

and empower the community by serving as a platform for showcasing local entrepreneurs, businesses, artists, and talent.

July 28 and August 25 #TBT Food Truck Festival at Camarillo Ranch House www.camarilloranch.org Come out and enjoy the beautiful surroundings when the Camarillo Ranch Foundation presents #TBT Food Truck Festival from 5:009:00p.m. Admission is free and the family movie in the Barn starts at 6:00p.m.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Out Of This World™ Circus Experience July 29 – August 7 Honda Center/Anaheim www.ringling.com Audiences will be riveted by an interactive, action-packed storyline filled with space-age family fun and technology. The show features thrill skaters, gravity-defying acrobats, majestic animals and hilarious clowns. Imaginations will run wild throughout the non-stop display of artistic athleticism, with acts seamlessly transitioning from floor to air to ice.

The Music Center’s Dance DTLA Most Friday nights, through September 2 www.musiccenter.org DTLA is a series featuring Dance Downtown, where participants can learn new dance moves in a judgment free zone with a different dance genre for each event, and

California Wine Festival in Santa Barbara July 14 – 16 www.californiawinefestival.com One of the largest outdoor wine festivals in the state, the 13th annual edition will feature hundreds of premium California wines along with the best selections produced by regional microbreweries, bites from top local chefs and other food purveyors and vendors.

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Picnic on the Promenade Fridays, July 10 to August 21 www.santamonica.com This annual summer series eases locals and Promenade walkers into the weekend every Friday afternoon with live music, classic board games, interactive challenges, and free services from Downtown merchants. Bring a lunch or grab-andgo from one of Downtown’s award-winning eateries and soak in the sun.

july/august 2016 alternating DJ nights, curated by influential artists and tastemakers who will give voice to the dynamic, vibrant L.A. culture through music, dancing, arts and aesthetics.

Oxnard Salsa Festival July 30-31 www.oxnardsalsafestival.com The award-winning Festival features the region’s top salsa and Latin Jazz bands, non-stop salsa dancing, marketplace shopping, tortilla art for kids, a Salsa Tasting Tent, two international food courts, and salsa dance exhibitions.

august

International Surf Festival August 4-7 www.surffestival.org Celebrating the four South Bay beach cities, the world’s best lifeguard service, and physical fitness for thousands of participants, this Festival features a Lifeguard Medley Relay, the Dwight Crum Pier-to-Pier Swim, and the Charley Saikley 6-Man Volleyball Tournament.

Other events include a surfing contest, bodysurfing contest, beach run, paddleboard races, dory race, and youth events.

comedians, Hollywood industry panels, classes, family friendly shows, and some of the hottest up-and-coming talent from around the world. The festival will feature more than 50 special events with underground showcases, classes, workshops, industry panels, after parties, and live festival podcasts.

August 20 Leimert Park Village Book Fair www.leimertparkbookfair.com This 10th annual Fair is a familyoriented event that provides authors an opportunity to promote their newest work and interact with their fans. The Fair has been voted “One of LA’s Five Best Annual Book Festivals”.

Brew at the LA Zoo August 5 www.lazoo.org The 6th Annual event is open to guests ages 21 and over. Known for beer tasting samples from close to 50 local craft and microbreweries, it also features music by live bands, karaoke, a DJ, pubstyle grub, Zookeeper talks, upclose encounters with some of the Zoo's smaller residents, and visits to animal habitats. VIP tickets are available.

August 13-14 Watermelon Festival www.lionswatermelonfestival.com All day fun includes free watermelon, delicious foods, carnival rides and attractions, games, contests, entertainment, a Kids Zone, and more. In addition to the carnival rides and midway games, kids can enjoy rock wall climbing, a zip line, laser tag, a bouncy pit, and face painting.

Burbank Comedy Festival August 14-20 www.burbankcomedyfestival.com Flappers Comedy Club will present a week of celebrity headlining

GR4CF Fashion Fundraiser August 20 www.gracerosefoundation.com Held at CBS Studios’ Back Lot, this is a kid-friendly event featuring a fashion show with Rosie G style clothing. Entertainment includes Le Petit Cirque, child performances and a DJ. There will be food, drink, silent auction and activities.

Purchase a raffle ticket for a chance to win a Tesla.

San Diego’s Doggie Street Festival August 27 www.doggiestreetfestival.org The annual adoption event brings adorable, adoptable dogs and cats to help them find happy forever homes. The event creates a festive occasion where dog-owners and future dog-owners can talk to vets, animal trainers and health and nutrition experts. There will be guest speakers, music, a kids’ area and more.

Coming in September…

Kaaboo Del Mar September 16-18 www.kaaboodelmar.com The KAABOO Experience is a treat for all your senses and then some.

This is an elevated “mix-perience” that includes great live bands, fine art galleries and live art, gourmet food and craft beer – and real bathrooms. One dollar of every pass sold by KAABOO will be distributed among its community partners through its charitable giving program, KINDNESS.

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

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SCOTT HARRIS

When I was a kid and it was time to wash the car, a time always determined by my dad, it was pretty simple: a bucket of

soapy water, a rag to wash, a towel to dry (a chamois if you were living high) and a hose left running from start to finish. If you were able to Tom Sawyer some help, you could count on at least one good water fight during the process. The other alternative was always the local high school cheerleaders and their Saturday car wash fundraisers at the corner gas station. I still occasionally drive by that gas station and give a little nod and silent thanks for those memories.

ALAS, as with so many things, washing a car is no longer so simple. It may be in other parts of the country, but in Southern California, where cars are king, even having your car washed has become a status symbol.

Some folks choose to go to a gas station and, for an extra couple of bucks, take a pass through the car wash. You usually have two or three choices, but it’s pretty basic. Other folks choose to go to a full-scale car wash, where you are inundated with choices, all offered by some snooty car wash concierge who appears to be judging your entire life based on your choice of the Special Wash, Super Wash, Super Deluxe Wash or the Super Clean Wash. And that’s before you are truly judged based on your willingness to skip the machine wash all together and invest a week’s paycheck in having your car hand washed and then detailed.

Of course, even the high-end car washes are disdained by those who choose to have their car washed at their home or office by what are known as “car wash specialists.” These specialists show up with tarps, ladders and water tanks, their trucks proclaiming their commitment to the environment and reminding us of the sublime pleasure of an immaculately clean car. And finally, there’s the ultimate in Southern California car care — the full home/office hand detail. These can run from one hundred to several hundreds of dollars, and the attention to detail can reach a level some might consider just a bit over the top.

Recently, I was going to have a car detailed at the house. We’d been on a long road trip, the car had a few miles on it, and I thought it might be a good idea. The “car wash specialist” began by telling me that NO ONE takes the basic home detail job (the one he advertised, by the way) and went on to explain the options available for those who truly care about their cars. I found myself trying extremely hard not to laugh as I listened to this man explain to me the value and importance of waxing the inside of the ashtray.

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Not completely convinced that a car wash that required taking out a second mortgage on the house was a good idea, I told him I would have to think about it. I did think about it, for about 10 seconds, and then I called the neighbor kid, gave him a few bucks, and sat back and watched as he started to fill a bucket with soapy water. ❖ JULY.AUGU ST2016

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MY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Janice Hiromi Kalec is fortunate to call the exciting

city of Los Angeles her studio, where she shoots primarily lifestyle and portrait photography. While maintaining her corporate job, Janice spends most of her weekends collaborating, photographing, and capturing candid memories for her clients.

Her outgoing spirit and journalistic style has allowed her to easily connect with her clients, creating a fun environment for even camera-shy subjects. Despite her love for lifestyle photography, she continues to train her creative eye by photographing the hustle and the bustle of the city. For more of Janice's work, please visit her portfolio/blog at www.ChasingHiromi.com

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

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

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