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JAN.FEB2015

CONTENTS VOL. NO.2/ ISSUE 1

76 Camila Alves

CAMILA ALVES Photographed by Benny Haddad.

Location: Virginia Robinson’s powder room.

Features 36 SURROGACY Southern California Mom Shares Her Gift of Family + Profiles

By Bridget Marie

76 The Art of Ruling the Red Carpet CAMILA ALVES

and Raising Wholesome Kids

By Robyn Flans

WIDERSTROM 44 JENNIFER Choosing the Winning Way of Life

By Robyn Flans

48 So Cal Local and His Life IVOR DAVIS

With the Beatles

By Robyn Flans

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50 HAYLEY ORRANTIA

At the Record Parlour

By Robyn Flans

MACMILLAN 54 DAVID Three-time Oscar Winner

By Robyn Flans

FRANCIS JONES 58 STEPHEN Creator of So Cal’s Hottest Restaurants

By Michael Fleeman

SANTANA 60 SALVADOR Giving Back Through Music

By Robyn Flans

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JAN.FEB2015

CONTENTS

VOL. NO.2/ ISSUE 1

12

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER/EDITOR.IN.CHIEF

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AFFAIRS TO REMEMBER

62

Breeder’s Cup

By Michele Stueven

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AFFAIRS TO REMEMBER

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SIGNATURES & LANDMARKS

Launch Party

Movie Mountains: A Look Inside the Glamorous Past of Paramount Ranch

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By Erika Thomas

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Richie Sambora sing s the National Anthem

ENCHANTING ESCAPES

Seasonal Culinary and Social Events Abound at Pelican Hill

By Linda Lang

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"It is kind of crazy for me that people think I have changed the culinary landscape in Los Angeles.”

ARTS & CULTURE

Coast to Cactus Exhibition Opens January 17 at San Diego Natural History Museum

By Linda Lang

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ARTS & CULTURE

The 30th Anniversary of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival The Road to the Oscars Begins with Palm Springs

By Imaan Jalali

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FAB FINDS

Love the Skin You’re in Valentines Inspired Beauty

By Nicole Schmidt

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OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Southern California's Best Kept Secret

By Scott Glode

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BUBBLES & BREWS

Santa Monica Nightlife Rocks at The Bungalow

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Experience the mysteries of animals that existed before becoming extinct and who roamed the ice age over 100,000 years ag o. Your kids will love it.

By Linda Lang

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THE GOURMAND

The Taste’s Chef Ludo Lefevre Dishes on His Expanding Empire and Why Mixing Business with Pleasure Has Been a Success

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THE SPORTS PAGE

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Balanced Lifestyles, Balanced Bodies

By Scott Harris

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TRENDING TALK

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FIVE FAVES

So Cal's Five of the Top Mexican Restaurants

By Imaan Jalali

Tournament of Roses

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PERFECT PICKS What a Girl Wants

By Nicole Schmidt

90

Resolving Travel Tiffs

By Esther C. Bleuel, MA, MFT, MDR

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By Erika Thomas

By Dahvi Shira

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THE HOOD

The adventurous can also hik e, zip line, g o horseback riding , ice skating or mine for treasure.

FAMILY FUN

Playtime in the Southland

By MacKenzie Miller

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TO-DO-LIST

Snow Play in So Cal

By Debbie Sullivan

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ON THE CALENDAR ON THE COVER

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE - JAN.FEB2015

CAMILA ALVES PHOTOGRAPHED BY BENNY HADDAD. Makeup: Desirae Cherman/Tracey Mattingly Kevyn Aucoin Cosmetics. Hair: Kristin Heitkotter. Stylist: Charlene E. Roxborough. Stylist Assistant: Jazmine GandhI. Derek Lam Turtleneck; Available at Barneys New York. Camila’s Personal White Skirt. Photographed at The Virginia Robinson Gardens.

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Monique Reidy EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY ARTS AND CULTURE EDITOR COMMUNICATION AND ADVICE EDITOR ENTERTAINMENT AND PROFILES EDITOR LANDMARKS AND HISTORICAL FEATURES EDITOR SPORTS EDITOR STYLE AND BEAUTY EDITOR TRAVEL EDITOR VIDEOGRAPHER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS WEBSITE DESIGN | DIGITAL SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT EDITORIAL INTERN

Michele Stueven Antoni Pham Benny Haddad Imaan Jalali Esther Bleuel Robyn Flans Erika Thomas Scott Harris Nicole Schmidt Linda Lang Erik Glode Debbie Sullivan, Michael Fleeman, Scott Glode, MacKenzie Miller, Bridget Marie, Dahvi Shira Alison Dyer, Erica Goddard, Dale Berman Mike Kaiser, Karen Kaiser | www.searanchimages.com Kelsey Herrington

PUBLISHED BY

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS ADVERTISING

Monique Reidy Cheryl Dalton Hilary Bateman, Michelle Earnhart, Kimberly Wooldridge Janine Goldberg Connie Schuh Debbie Sullivan John Ponomarev Edward Corey, ESQ. | Stephan Hyun, ESQ. Corey & Corey Catherine Jayne, Ph.D, Steve Bardwil, ESQ., Bill Bleuel, Ph.D, Patty Macmillan, Elena Nikitina, Doug Sylvester, Mary Wagstaff, Debbie Widerøe, Kelly Trevethan, Scott Harris Info@SoCalLifemag.com Ads@SoCalLifeMag.com

2945 Townsgate Road | Suite 200 | Westlake Village | CA | 91361 | 805-807-SCLM (7256) | 805-370-8181 fax | www.SoCalLifeMag.com /SoCalLifeMag /socallifemag /user/socallifemag socallifemag

Southern California Life Magazine is published by Elysian Media Group, LLC. ©2014 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 prohibitted. Publisher reserves the right to accept or reject all advertising matter. Publisher does not assume responsibility for errors, omissions, and/or changes in advertising or editorial material.

November/December 2014 Volume 1 • Issue 1 Printed in the USA.

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LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER / EDITOR.IN.CHIEF

HERE’S A SOOTHING SILENCE IN THE AIR AS I WATCH THE SKY MORPH INTO SHADES OF ROSE AND GOLD BEHIND AN ASSORTMENT OF PALE CLOUD CLUSTERS. The sun is folding into an expansive dark Pacific Ocean as the hush

Monique Reidy Publisher/ Editor.in.Chief

is interrupted by the crash of waves against the Santa Barbara shoreline. It’s a balmy 74 degrees here in Southern California, yet we’re well into our winter season.

Among the scores of reasons people say they choose to live in the Southland, the climate is the most predictable. While a good portion of the rest of the country is sequestered indoors away from rain, snow and freezing temperatures, we get to roam comfortably across our amazing region in ideal weather conditions -- which is why I am able to wander an hour north of home and sit beachside in December … with my laptop.

Besides the free pass we hold to don our white jeans year-round instead of heeding the “Memorial Day through Labor Day” restriction, another reason we choose to live in So Cal is the host of options available to keep us entertained. There’s never a shortage of places to go and things to do, and uncovering those activities is the primary purpose for which our magazine, Southern California Life, exists.

We’ve packed this issue with tips and ideas to help enhance your pastime in the Southland, like our recommendation of five top restaurant choices that offer authentic Mexican cuisine. If you’re more into film than food, the article about the Palm Springs and Santa Barbara Film Festivals should pique your interest. And if you’re a sojourner through Southern California but still need your snow fix, we’ll tell you where to find it in our piece on Snow Play in So Cal. We pay tribute to the Tournament of Roses’ 100th Anniversary in our coverage of the extraordinary City of Pasadena. We look at landmarks like Paramount Ranch, Mount Baldy and the iconic Record Parlour in Hollywood.

We also feature a mix of fascinating people including nightlife guru, Brent Bolthouse; “Biggest Loser” trainer and fitness expert, Jen Widerstrom; Ivor Davis, who experienced “Beatlemania” alongside the Fab Four; Salvador Santana, son of rock legend, Carlos Santana, who tells us how he gives back through music; three-time Oscar® winner, David Macmillan, who chronicles his illustrious life in Hollywood; and of course, our cover beauty, Camilla Alves. She reveals how she manages a schedule filled with ongoing mom responsibilities, a disciplined fitness regime and a demanding Red Carpet itinerary.

We also share photos of our recent launch party, a special night for us at So Cal Life Mag as we celebrated our first edition release last November 2014. And there’s so much more from page to page to learn and discover about our fabulous area.

I hope you enjoy our January 2015 issue. Perhaps you too can grab a copy, head to the beach and read it as you take in one of our breathtaking Southern California winter sunsets. ❖ Warmest wishes,

“LIFE IS A BLANK CANVAS, AND YOU NEED TO THROW ALL THE PAINT ON IT YOU CAN.” ~DANNY KAYE

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AFFAIRS TO REMEMBER

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BREEDER'S CUP

A DAY AT THE RACES IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ✒ BY

Sylvester Stallone & Jennifer Flavin

(L-R) Publisher Monique Reidy, Jockey Aaron Gryder, Editorial Director Michele Stueven

Bo Derek

MICHELE STUEVEN

Kristin Chenoweth

It was a grand day at the races full of wine, Fillies and song at the Breeders Cup in Pasadena at the Santa Anita Racetrack.

Southern California Life Magazine was in the clubhouse for all the excitement at thoroughbred racing’s most prestigious global event, consisting of 13 races with purses and awards totalling $26 million.

Breeder’s Cup World Championship VIP Trophy Lounge attendees Bobby Flay and Giada De Laurentiis stopped for photos and to exchange betting strategies with SoCalLife editors Monique Reidy, Michele Stueven and Cheryl Dalton.

Both Chefs carefully sampled Napa Valley Wines from Ackerman, Bello and Rocca Family Vineyards and fellow Superstar Chef Michael Chiarello’s Rigatoni Bolognese. Flay paid special attention to Chris Mortenson’s Stuffed Poblano Chiles.

Other celebrity ambassadors on hand to watch “Bayern’s” wire-towire finish were Richie Sambora, who belted out a heartening national anthem, Sylvester Stallone and Bo Derek. ❖

Richie Sambora sings the National Anthem

BY MATT SAYLES/INVISION

Elizabeth Banks

Bobby Flay

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AFFAIRS TO REMEMBER

Lexa Mansi Morris & Style & Beauty Editor, Nicole Schmidt AVENTINE Editorial Director Michele Stueven, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief, Monique Reidy, Marketing & Sales Director Cheryl Dalton

Advisory board members, Kelly Trevethan, Catherine Jayne, Ph.D, Steve Bardwil

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE MAGAZINE LAUNCH PARTY Southern California Life Magazine celebrated its launch at Aventine Hollywood on November 13th with a show of support from colleagues, friends and fans. Alpha Omega Winery generously donated cases of wine to help us toast to our first of many festivities to follow. â?–

Erica Goddard, Art & Culture Editor, Imaan Jalali

BY ERICA GODDARD BOSSYBOSSPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief, Monique Reidy, Steve Reidy

Alpha Omega Handcrafted Wines

Rachel Hallett & Kelsey Herrington

Joshua Gross, Noelle Flores, Joe Rost, Marketing & Sales Director, Cheryl Dalton, Maggie Savant, MacKenzie Miller

Dave Itzen & Judith Feldman

Joe Rost, Joshua Gross, and Maggie Savant

Aventine Hollywood General Manager, Maurizio La Rosa, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief, Monique Reidy

Monica Rizzo, Editorial Director, Michele Stueven, Dahvi Shira

Mark Glode, Editorial Director, Michele Stueven, Scott Glode, Erik Glode

Kim & Creative Director, Antoni Pham

Edward Nyahay

Blair White & Director of Photography, Benny Haddad

Lori DeWaal & Coco

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief, Monique Reidy, Hillary Bateman and Ernie Parrilla

Mike Clarke, Style & Beauty Editor, Nicole Schmidt

Dorothy Torresi & Linda Thompson

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SIGNATURES & LANDMARKS

Paramount Ranch 1939 Geronimo with Preston Foster and Chief Thundercloud

BY BISON ARCHIVES

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MOVIE MOUNTAINS: A LOOK INSIDE THE GLAMOROUS PAST OF PARAMOUNT RANCH

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Picturesque settings and diverse, natural landscapes are just a few of the aspects that make Paramount Ranch such a special place. A kind of nature conservancy, the scenic open-space nestled above Malibu in the Santa Monica Mountains has just as much history as it does rolling hills and oak groves.

✒ BY

ERIKA THOMAS

In 1927, on what was once the Spanish-colonized Rancho Las Virgenes, Paramount Pictures bought a sprawling 2,700 acres of land to use for filming. The vast movie ranch immediately became the place for entertainment luminaries. Hollywood legends Clark Gable, Claudette Colbert, John Wayne, Bob Hope, W.C. Fields, Paulette Goddard and a bastion of other stars graced its sets from the very beginning. Famed director Cecil B. DeMille oversaw countless pictures at the ranch as well.

Former National Parks Ranger and movie expert, Mike Malone, says that during its heyday, “Paramount Ranch was a movie-making mecca, especially for the western.” Classics like “Wells Fargo”, “Gun Smoke”, “The Dawn Trail”, “Robin Hood of El Dorado”, “The Painted Desert” and scads of others made film history there. However, westerns weren’t its only draw. The tremendous topographical variety of the land and the mountains surrounding it, allowed filmmakers to portray locales of all kinds—from Far East China and New England, to the South Sea Islands and the Midwest.

In 1943 Paramount Ranch would change hands, and just in time. While the 1920s and 1930s had been its most active years, the golden era of the movie cowboy had come to an end. Western film enthusiast William Hertz purchased the southern portion of the ranch from Paramount Pictures with a five year leaseback and the agreement they could continue filming there.

Using old sheds that once housed Paramount’s movie sets, props and other surplus materials, Hertz had the very first permanent western town constructed; something that would prove to be of interest to television producers. While the allure of silver screen cowboys had diminished, television cowboys were on the rise.

Wildly popular T.V. westerns of the 1950s and 1960s such as H

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Claudette Colbert and Paulette Goddard during the filming of "So Proudly We Hail!"

(1943)

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SIGNATURES & LANDMARKS

“Gunsmoke”, “Bat Masterson” and “The Cisco Kid” would all use Paramount Ranch as a filming location.

Its popularity continued throughout the 1970s with “The Dukes of Hazzard” Filming of "Beau Geste" and “Charlie’s Angels” (1939) starring Gary using the ranch for Cooper with the ridge line Ladyfaace mountain in production. It would the backg round, something also become the perthat can still be seen manent shooting locafrom the 101 near tion of “Dr. Quinn, Ag oura Hills today.

Medicine Woman” during the entire run of the series and more recently, it served as one of the backdrops for the new Clint Eastwood film “American Sniper”.

In 1980, Paramount Ranch became part of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Although there have been numerous renovations to the town’s facades over the years, Hertz’s original western town still stands and continues to be used often for filming.

Today, the ranch consists of only 750 acres, but it’s still impressive terrain—and a place where movie history is just as important as environmental preservation. Visitors enjoy bike riding, guided hikes and tours (the monthly “film history walk” remains one of the most popular), clean park day, and numerous other activities that focus on the environment. Paying special attention to the water that flows through the property has become of utmost importance as well. “Because of the drought California has experienced, Medea Creek is drying up, which very much impacts aquatic life within the stream. The annual science fair every spring brings a large turn-out, which allows us to raise environmental awareness.

People can come and see how scientists study and evaluate the various forms of plant and animal life here at the Ranch,” says Malone.

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In honor of this year’s Academy Awards, Paramount Ranch will host its inaugural film history series, “Hollywood’s Movie Mountains”. The first installment, “Oscar Goes Outdoors”, will take place on February 15 and will feature several speakers (Malone being among them), presentations and will include a photo retrospective depicting the hundreds of movies and other productions that have filmed there over the years.

Although a lot has changed with the environment, the landscape and the way movies are made since 1927, Paramount Ranch remains a symbol of the halcyon days of silver screen cowboys and leading ladies. People can still explore the same place there once stood a gold rushera San Francisco, a postwar Austria, or where Marlene Dietrich dramatically uttered her lines in “Blonde Venus”. And, if you listen closely, you might still hear a cowboy’s spurs jingling as he prepares for a shootout at high noon. ❖

BY MIKE MALONE

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During the filming of "Ridin' for Justice" (1932), part of the popular Buck Jones series of the 1930s and 4 ' 0s, which starred Buck Randall. The g ood guys are identifiable by their white cowboy hats and the bad guys by black ones.

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~~~~~~~~~~ ENCHANTING ESCAPES ~~~~~~~~~~

SEASONAL CULINARY AND SOCIAL EVENTS ABOUND AT PELICAN HILL The award-winning Resort at Pelican Hill in Newport Beach is enticing local residents as well as hotel guests with a new seasonal menu of entertainment, dining and activities from January through March.

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LINDA LANG

COURTESY OF PELICAN HILL

✒ BY

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Spacious two- to four-bedroom villas feature elegant living and magnificent views.

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“Mingle with fellow foodies while Executive Chef JeanPierre Dubray describes the preparation of cuisine to be enjoyed by all.”

PELICAN HILL

Pelican Hill sits on 504 splendid acres overlooking the Pacific.

Set amid 504 magnificent coastal acres with panoramic views of the Pacific, accommodations include 204 luxuriously appointed bungalow guest rooms and suites and 128 exquisite two-to four-bedroom villas with a private clubhouse and pool. Among the many amenities are the five-star spa, circular Coliseum Pool with tiered decks and lush cabanas, and 36-hole championship Pelican Hill Golf Club, designed by Tom Fazio. World class dining features Andrea Ristorante which serves authentic Northern Italian cuisine, the Great Room, Pelican Grill, Coliseum Pool & Grill, two Caffés, and Piccolo in the villa clubhouse.

Whether you are a resident seeking a day at the spa, round of golf, social mixers, culinary classes or intend to spend a few days as a resort guest, the extensive menu of events has something for everyone.

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Executive Chef JeanPierre Dubray oversees the resort's restaurants and culinary programs.

1/ The new Great Room Social Hour, every Thursday and Friday, features live music, entertainment, table games, wine and cheese pairings, small bites and desserts. On select Thursdays from 4–7 pm, the Social Hour includes boutique art exhibits of sculptures, paintings and sketches, and art discussions presented by Dawson Cole Fine Art. Themes include Modern Art & Italy on January 15, Impressionism on February 19, and From Old Masters to Modern Masters on March 19.

The Coliseum Pool & Grill overlooks the Pacific.

2/ For college football and basketball fans, the chefs create game day menus celebrating each competing team. Accompanied by chilled brews, California wines, and specialty cocktails, you can catch all the action on two giant nine-foot screens in the Pelican Grill, voted Southern California’s Best Sports Bar & Grill by Los Angeles Times readers.

NCAA March Madness specials starting March 17 will also feature menu specials inspired by the competing teams.

3/ For NFL fans, you and your BFFs can also view the game in the Pelican Grill or in your own private luxury cabana overlooking Coliseum Pool. Accommodating four to 10 guests, game day comes with a bucket of domestic beer, guacamole and tortilla chips, prime beef sliders, chicken wings, parmesan garlic fries and pizza.

And on Super Bowl Sunday, the chefs present national championship palate pleasers representing, of course, the two NFL teams.

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE - JAN.FEB2015

Pelican Hill's luxurious Bungalow rooms offer every amenity.

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4/ Couples’ Etiquette Soirées on Sunday January 25, February 22 and March 22 from 3:00–5:00 pm are led by Kathleen Cover, founder and president of The Etiquette School of Beverly Hills and Newport Beach. The twohour event includes prosecco, hors d'oeuvres, dinner and dessert while learning secrets to good conversation, party planning, and more. You can also join Cover for Fireside Etiquette Chats on Friday January 2, February 6, and March 6 from 5:00–6:30 pm in the Great Room.

5/ Children’s Etiquette Classes are scheduled Sunday January 11, February 8 and March 8 from 2:30–5:30 pm. Kids ages 7-12 can expand their understanding of social, travel and dining etiquette with instruction also by Kathleen Cover.

The Pelican Grill Lounge has two nine-foot screens for sports fans.

6/ Afternoon Tea & Children's Story Time featuring children's classics is held on select Saturdays. Families are invited from 2:00–3:30 pm to enjoy story time, sing-alongs, dancing and more.

Join Elsa from "Frozen" on January 17, "The Little Mermaid" on February 21, and "Cinderella" on March 21.

7/ Romantic Dining Menus for Valentines include an Italian lovers’ four-course menu offered February 13 -15 in Andrea Ristorante, listed among America’s Top 10 Most Romantic Restaurants by Gayot and named Southern California’s Most Romantic Restaurant

by Los Angeles Times readers. Valentine's specials are also offered in the Pelican Grill and Coliseum Pool & Grill.

8/ St. Patrick’s Day on March 17 features sample flights of Irish brews and bites in the lounge and menus in all dining venues celebrating the cuisine of Ireland.

Children learn etiquette tips from Kathleen Cover.

9/ The Pelican Grill's New Tasting Table invites epicures to gather in front of the restaurant’s open-concept kitchen in the main dining room. This interactive, chef-led evening includes watching the chefs prepare the day’s prix fixe specialties and passing each course over the counter to the 10 guests seated at an adjacent table.

10/ Executive Chef's Dinner Show Kitchen on Friday, March 6 at 6:00 pm offers cooking demonstrations and a multi-course dinner with music. Mingle with fellow foodies while Executive Chef Jean-Pierre Dubray describes the preparation of cuisine to be enjoyed by all. You also receive a complimentary culinary gift bag with the evening’s recipes. ❖

Pelican Grill's new interactive Tasting Table is next to the openconcept kitchen in the main dining room.

The Resort at Pelican Hill is a 15-minute drive from Orange County’s John Wayne Airport and 45 minutes from LAX. For event details, pricing, reservations and driving directions, go to www.pelicanhill.com or phone 1-855-467-6800.

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ARTS & CULTURE

COAST TO CACTUS EXHIBITION OPENS JANUARY 17 AT SAN DIEGO NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM ✒ BY

COURTESY OF SAN DIEGO NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

LINDA LANG

Entrance to the Grizzly Bear Exhibit

THE FIRST MAJOR EXHIBIT TO OPEN IN BALBOA PARK DURING SAN DIEGO'S 2015 CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION, COAST TO CACTUS UNFOLDS THE STORY OF THE REGION IN A NEW $9 MILLION, 8,000SQUARE-FOOT PERMANENT EXHIBITION OPENING JANUARY 17 AT THE SAN DIEGO NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM. “In a way, Coast to Cactus is 140 years in the making,” said Dr. Michael Hager, president and CEO of the San Diego Natural History Museum. “Our Museum was founded in 1874 by a group of amateur naturalists who wanted to share discoveries and learn more about this extraordinarily diverse area, a mission that continues to this day. We take pride in the fact that no one institution has interpreted the comprehensive picture of the entire southern California bioregion under one roof—until now.”

Known for its diverse terrain ranging from beaches and chaparral along the coast to the mountains and desert inland, San Diego is one

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Chaparral Wildlife Theatre

Mid-Century Patio Exhibit

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of only 35 biodiversity hotspots in the world as it contains the highest concentration of different species for any geographic area of similar size. Coast to Cactus takes you on a journey through these extraordinary habitats and the plants and animals that live within them.

All information is presented in both English and Spanish. Coast to Cactus is located in the Dennis and Carol Wilson Hall of Biodiversity on Level 2 of the Museum adjacent to its sister exhibition, Fossil Mysteries, which gives visitors a look into prehistoric past of the region. Together, the two exhibitions tell the story of southern California from the prehistoric age to present day.

Using specimens from the Museum’s scientific collections with handson interactive exhibits, live animals, and innovative media, Coast to Cactus helps you discover why the region is home to so many species that are critically threatened today, and why it matters.

Some of the exhibition’s main attractions include: 1/ An oversized replica of a segment of mud from a local tidal flat that youngsters can crawl into and discover what animals live in the mud and how they survive.

2/ A recreation of a mid-century residential patio overlooking a suburban San Diego canyon, illustrating how humans share space with nature.

3/ A storybook tale of the dynamic chaparral ecosystem and how periodic fires are a natural part of life in this signature habitat.

4/ A multimedia experience that includes an Airstream Bambi trailer and transports you into the desert at night as the sun goes down, temperatures drop, and the barren landscape springs to life as animals emerge for the evening hunt.

5/ Exhibits highlighting the work of people, past and present, who help us better understand how the Southern California habitats have changed over time and how we can help sustain the plants and animals that live here today.

Birdlife in the Coastal Wetlands

Creatures of the Coastal Wetlands

Located at 1788 El Prado in San Diego, the San Diego Natural History Museum is the second oldest scientific institution in California and the third oldest west of the Mississippi. The Coast to Cactus exhibition is included with general admission and free for members. For more information, visit www.sdnat.org/coasttocactus or phone 1-877-946-7797. ❖

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ARTS & CULTURE

The Road to the Oscars Begins with Palm Springs ✒ BY

IMAAN JALALI Amy Adams

Since it was “fathered” by the late recording artist and mayor of Palm Springs, Sonny Bono, the Palm Springs International Film Festival has set the tone for the Hollywood awards season for the last 25 years. e

The 26th annual edition of the festival will be no exception when it is jump-started on January 2nd and ends on January 12th. In total, 15 screens will be in operation between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m., as films are sold and distribution rights settled, in what has historically been an effective way to attract attention for Academy Award-caliber films.

Characteristically, what sets apart the Palm Springs spectacular from similar festivals, is that it has publicized many of the foreign-language films that are then considered for excellent achievement in the category of the same name at the Oscars. For instance, in 2013 alone, the festival screened nearly 60 percent of the foreign-language films that were later submitted to the Academy for review. This is in conjunction with the independent works and documentaries that are also featured, to the tune of approximately 200 films from more than 60 countries!

More often than not, besides being the first stop to the Oscars, it is additionally a platform proffered for those who want their voices to be heard clearly and cogently across all borders.

The fact that narrative features, documentaries, foreign-language films, and new voices in cinema (including the presentation of the Cine Latino Award) are celebrated is a testament to the versatility of the Palm Springs event.

Compared to previous iterations, this year is extra-special because there will also be a oneday symposium, entitled “The Power of Words: Book to Screen,” which will take place on

January 8th at the Hilton Palm Springs. Curated by Barbara Keller and Susan Rosser, the symposium will be comprised of sessions and keynote presentations by authors, producers, screenwriters and stars, detailing a great number of the 1,500 books that have been adapted to the Hollywood screen since 1980.

Nonetheless, the biggest Amma Asante attraction, arguably, during the 11-day proceedings is the Awards Gala—a formal, star-driven affair— where Hollywood heavyweights are lavished with deserved commendation in the form of the Sonny Bono Visionary Award, Desert Palm Achievement Award, Career Achievement Award, Frederick Loewe Award for Film Composing, Director of the Year Award, Chairman's Award, Icon Award, Spotlight Award, and Ensemble Performance Award (won by the cast of “American Hustle” last year). Over the years, a slew of Hollywood's finest have earned the plaudits of their peers, such as Daniel Day-Lewis, Leonardo DiCaprio, Sandra Bullock, Matthew McConaughey, Amy Adams, Jennifer Lawrence, Jeremy Renner, Bradley Cooper, Clint Eastwood, Sean Penn, Natalie Portman, et al.

As David O. Russell, the esteemed director of “American Hustle,” was quoted as saying last year: “These are all amazing people that put their hearts on the line to tell amazing stories of survival and reinvention.” Suffice it to say, every individual who has ever put his or her work on the line for public perusal, at the Palm Springs International Festival, backs Russell's moving sentiments.

Matthew McConaughey & Camila Alves-McConaughey

GETTYIMAGES

Colin Farrell & Thomas Newman

Don't miss what is sure to be a memorable event! If you would like to attend, or want more information about the film schedule, call (760) 322-2930 or visit www.psfilmfest.org.

The Edge & Sonny Bono

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Bradley Cooper & David O. Russell

Julia Roberts & Tom Hanks

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Ben Affleck & Matt Damon

Bruce Dern & Jane Fonda

Leonardo DiCaprio, Martin Scorsese, and Jonah Hill

Cate Blanchett & Rooney Mara

The 30th Anniversary of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival

Maggie Q & Jared Leto

Since 1986, the Santa Barbara International Film Festival has been a staple of the film community, and the region of Southern California at large. It is where established veterans—from famous actors to auteurs—and up-and-coming unknowns are honored.

From January 27th, when the festival kicks off with “Desert Dancer,” starring Freida Pinto of “Slumdog Millionaire”, until February 7th, more than 200 films will be highlighted to roughly 70,000 individuals, with and without cachet, who have an all-important unifying thread in common—unremitting passion about the industry. e

Elisabeth Röhm & Jeremy Renner

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Sandra Bullock

Offering the means to get a head start in Hollywood, the festival boasts the “10-1010” competition, where students from Santa Barbara area schools are invited to participate insofar as ten rookie writers are matched with ten would-be directors to shoot a ten-minute short film during the span of the festival. Subsequently, the winning team is awarded for their excellence and, in theory, have a slightly ajar door to step through in hopes of making their dreams come true.

For those who have paid their dues and succeeded in the surreal world of film are recipients of the prestigious Outstanding Performance of the Year Award, the last of whom was Cate Blanchett in 2014 for her riveting performance in Woody Allen's “Blue Jasmine.” Other noteworthy distinctions include the American Riviera Award (for outstanding achievement in film), Montecito Award (for a marked contribution to film), Cinema Vanguard Award (for breaking new ground in film), Virtuosos Award (for best new performance), Outstanding Director Award, and the David Attenborough Award for Excellence in Nature Filmmaking. The latter award in particular will be presented for the first time in five years on January 28th to Jean-Michel (son of Jacques), and children Fabien and Celine of the renowned Cousteau Family, who have dedicated their lives to enlight-

ening audiences about the conservation and enthralling goings-on of the ocean.

Certainly, given the fact that the Santa Barbara festivities transpire after Sundance, and before the Academy Awards, has been of precedent significance for the honorees, many of whom have historically rode their good fortune to the Oscars to exultant effect. One star swooping in for the big one after portrayals as “Mr. Mom,” “Beetlejuice,” and “Batman” is the 63-year-old Michael Keaton, who has once again turned heads as the glory-seeking “Birdman.”

On January 31st at the Arlington Theatre in Santa Barbara, Keaton will become the 20th film dignitary to be bestowed the top honor that is the Modern Master Award. Keaton will follow in the footsteps of previous recipients of the award, including Christopher Nolan, Ben Affleck, and Bruce Dern, who was honored last year for “Nebraska,” but ultimately fell short of winning Best Actor at the Academy Awards (though he was nominated).

Whether Keaton builds enough momentum to fly high, where the golden statue lies, depends on a multitude of factors. But one thing is undeniable—being spotlighted as the main honoree will only fan the reinvigorated wings of Keaton, who is experiencing a well-earned resurgence.

For more information and/or to purchase tickets, please visit sbiff.org. ❖

JAN.FEB2015 - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE

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FINDS

The My Heart To Yours gift set by Philosophy features deliciously rich and creamy vanilla citrus scented bath products, as well as a yummy pink tone lip conditioner. Shea butter, antioxidants and natural oils soothe and moisturize, leaving your skin feeling extra soft.

Philosophy.com, $24

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▲ Lush Cosmetics delivers quality, cruelty-free and organic products that get the job done. One of our favorite products is The Bath Bomb in Pink. Scented with neroli, tonka bean and vanilla absolute, this bath bomb creates a sweet and flirty experience with a long-lasting fragrance. LushUSA.com, $4.95 ▲

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Osmosis Colour Water Color Eyeshadow by delivers dense, long wearing color unlike anything we have seen before.

This ultra rich loose powder will make your eye color pop. We especially love this shadow in Amethyst.

Osmosisskincare.com, $14.00

LOVE THE SKIN YOU’RE IN VALENTINES INSPIRED BEAUTY This month, our beauty bag is filled to the brim with all things hearts and pink. But don’t be fooled, just because they’re cute doesn’t mean they’re not mighty! These fab finds are haute in style but will also deliver remarkable results. ✒ BY ▼ Stila Cosmetics has impressed us with this limited edition petal pink blush! Presented in the most adorable heart shaped design, this blush delivers a perfect blend of pink hues to create a flawless “justpinched” look. But don’t miss your chance to grab it. This compact is only available for Valentines Day. VALENTINE’S DAY PRETTY IN PINK SET, $18, Ulta and Sephor

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▲ The Beauty Blender has made quite the reputation for itself in recent years.

This washable and reusable makeup sponge fits comfortably in your hand and is effective in covering blemishes and smoothing foundation for a flawless finish. Sponge cleansers are sold separately. BeautyBlender.net, $19.95

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE - JAN.FEB2015

▼ 12 Benefits Rapid Blowout Argan Oil Blow Dry Spray is a must have item for anyone that heat styles their hair. This argan oil spray is developed using only three pure ingredients, creating a weightless finish and an accelerated blow dry time.

This formula protects and conditions hair during heat styling.

12benefits.com, $24

▲ The Falsies Mascara by Maybelline is a drug store gem. Lashes become plumped, lengthened and separated with ease, creating a sexy and dramatic look that is suitable for daytime or evening wear. Check your local drug store or amazon.com, $7.99

▲ Butter London has created THE essential collection of products with this Baby Doll Beauty Set. Overflowing with pink perfection, this set includes the Teddy Boy Tinted Balm, Teddy Girl Nail Laquer, Alabaster Glaze Eye Shadow, Union Jack Black Wink Mascara, Union Jack Black Eye Pencil and Pistol Pink Cheeky Blush.

ButterLondon.com, $79.99 (a $111 value)

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BEAUTY

▲ The Skin Authority 3-in-1 Cleansing System is a revolutionary mechanical cleansing and blending system created to assist in daily or deep cleansing, as well as create an airbrush finish to makeup. The difference is in the interchangeable heads. The brush gently scrubs away dead skin, surface makeup and oils.

When foundation is applied with the sponge attachment, the skin is left with a smooth and flawless finish. This system is completely cordless making it a convenient tool for travel as well.

SkinAuthority.com, $59

▲ Never struggle with brushing wet, tangled hair again!

The Wet Brush glides through the hair gently and effortlessly without damaging the hair shaft.

TheWetBrush.com, $8.99-$15.99, depending on style.

▲ These no-tug hair ties are a beauty necessity.

Stylish, fun and handy, these hair ties won’t damage or leave creases in your hair. Easy to throw in your bag but cute enough to wear on your wrist!

Sephora, $5

▲ Get immediate results with this microdermabrasion scrub from Derma e. The fine crystal treatment is formulated using Dead Sea Salt, Volcanic Sand, natural astringents and antioxidants.

Use it to exfoliate, rejuvenate and re-texturize tired, dull surface skin. May be used on heels, elbows, hands and feet as well. This product is also 100% vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, gluten-free and lanolin-free.

Dermae.com, $32.50

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OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Mount Baldy stands as the third tallest mountain in Southern California, before Mount San Gorg onio (11,503) and Mount San Jacinto (10,834).

MOUNT BALDY

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA'S BEST KEPT SECRET ✒ BY

SCOTT GLODE

STANDING AT 10,064 FEET, MOUNT BALDY (OFFICIALLY NAMED MOUNT SAN ANTONIO) IS THE TALLEST MOUNTAIN IN LOS ANGELES COUNTY, AS WELL AS THE ENTIRE SAN GABRIEL MOUNTAINS. Not many peaks in the Southland can match its prominent and soaring luster. Mount Baldy is one of the most widely recognized mountaintops in Southern California, and appears on countless newspapers, postcards, and pictures of downtown Los Angeles, as it is right behind downtown if photographed from the west.

Around San Antonio's colossal summit, mountaintops rise barren and split while steep slopes descend more than two thousand feet. San Antonio Falls cascades and creeks flow through gently.

Sugar pine trees cover the higher mountain grades, sometimes perceived as a green lawn covering the mountains from far distances. The air is fresh and clean, the silence and winds are therapeutic, and the sky is a deeper blue. The topography is precipitous in this mountain range. The scenery is breathtaking as wildflowers coat the mountain floor and tall pine trees and Manzanita soar above.

As you hike and explore this magnificent mountain, you understand why Mount Baldy is a very popular place to visit — once a year on Labor Day weekend, thousands of hikers participate in what's called a “Run to the Top,” which involves hiking or running from Manker Flats (6,500) to the summit.

Mount Baldy stands as the third tallest mountain in Southern California, before Mount San Gorgonio (11,503) and Mount San Jacinto (10,834). On a clear day from its panoramic summit, you are consecrated with vast vistas of the entire Los Angeles Basin, Antelope Valley, as well as parts of the Mojave Desert.

Moderate to heavy snowfalls coating Mount Baldy in the winter captivate cross country skiers and alpinists. Mt. Baldy Ski Lifts is one of the few remaining ski resorts in the Southland that opened in the early 20th century and is still in operation today, as many others opened around the same time but have closed for varying reasons.

During the spring, summer and fall, the warmer temperatures and gently paved trails attract many hikers and mountain bikers. Although the snow is non-existent except for winter and early spring; hiking, mountain biking, and disc golf are some of the activities that can be par- H

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nothing ruins a perfect getaway like an unexpected dental emergency

dr. pham's expertise and attentive staff will repair your dental dilemma faster than you can say "ouch."

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OFF THE BEATEN PATH MOUNT BALDY

taken during the warmer parts of the year.

From the base of the resort, Mount Baldy offers more than 16 miles of hiking trails that take you all the way to the summit, or even the summit of Thunder Mountain just south of the Notch. These trails are also open to mountain bikers as well, with lift access from the base.

The most popular and well-known activity Legend has it that Mount San Antonio got its offered at Mount Baldy are the Moonlight nickname “Baldy” due to its rather bare mountaintop hikes that occur once a month during the weekend of or before the Full Moon. This hike compared to the rest of the mountain range.” is one that involves a two-and-a-half mile hike from the base of the resort to the Top-of-theabove 9,500 feet, so it gives the round mountaintop a bald look Notch restaurant, where a barbeque and live music performancto it. Hence, many people today refer to it as "Mt. Baldy," even es are served at 7,800 feet. Some of the foods served at the the plaque at the summit has the name engraved into it.

Notch include Tri-Tip Steak, barbeque chicken, along with Skiing at Mt. Baldy dates to the 1940s when skiers Herb other tasty fixings and delicious Missy Salad. Even if you are Leffler and Jim Chaffee, coworkers at the Douglas Aircraft not a seasoned hiker, you can also opt to take the chairlift Co. in El Segundo, got permission from the U.S. Forest round-trip, and you will be hard pressed to find a better view of Service to open a rope tow up what was then known as Camp the Los Angeles basin. Come to think of it, the only other Baldy. From their humble $150 investment more rope tows known place in the Southland where you can hike to a restauwere added over the years, along with a lodge, a ski school rant on a high mountaintop is the morbidly strenuous “Cactus and a ski patrol. In 1953, Leffler and Chafee sold their holdto Clouds” hike in the Palm Springs area, which enmeshes a 12 ings, and by the late 1960s the mountain had new lifts and mile hike and an 8,516 foot gain in elevation. But rest assured, improved equipment. It now has runs reaching 8,600 feet to the Moonlight hike is a much more approachable and easy hike.

2,100 higher than in Leffler and Chafee’s first modest operaLegend has it that Mount San Antonio got its nickname tion. Even today it is still referred to as ‘Southern California’s “Baldy” due to its rather bare mountaintop compared to the rest Best Kept Secret,’ due to its old-fashioned facilities and of the mounsomewhat tain range. hidden locaThe tree line, 8401 Mt Baldy Rd. tion from the limited rainMt Baldy, CA 91759 beaten path fall, and Tel: 909.982.0800 of Southern rugged soil Californian prevent most www.mtbaldyskilifts.com ski resorts. ❖ plant growth

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Nicole Schmidt, a lifelong So Cal native and two-time surrogate, has provided families the joy of a child when perhaps they had otherwise lost hope.

Nicole with second surrogate baby

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SURROGACY

Nicole and son Dylan

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA MOM SHARES HER GIFT OF FAMILY

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e Not many of us know about surrogacy. Many of us think it is something celebrities do to save their bodies. But surrogacy is a way for one woman to help create a family for someone.

Nicole doesn’t appear to be a typical surrogate … whatever that is.

But she is gorgeous with striking dark hair and dark eyes, arms covered in sleeve tattoos and she has that “cool” vibe, like she should be in a LBD at a Hollywood social event. She is an aesthetician who also does permanent makeup as a career. As she talks, it is apparent she’s down-to-earth yet very poised. And she’s mature. Not to mention, just having turned thirty-two, she’s already given birth to three children: her biological son, Dylan, and two surrogates.

“I went to my son’s one-week pediatrician appointment and the nurse was pregnant,” Nicole explained as to how she became a surrogate. “When I went back at his six-month appointment, she was pregnant again! So, I just had to ask her, ‘How many kids do you have?’”

It turned out the nurse was a surrogate and, after that appointment, Nicole thought constantly for the next two weeks about being one herself.

“I just remember I thought about it all the time and decided I wanted to at least see what it was,” she recalled.

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her choice of whether to do it was upon her. A couple read her profile and wanted her to carry their baby.

She, in turn, read their profile.

“When I read [it], I was torn between wanting to cry and yet be Makai and Nicole so happy if I could help them,” Nicole said. “They had tried for so many years, and they truly expressed their want for a child.”

She paused.

Without any ideas of “who” she wanted, she found that this couple exceeded her non-existent expectations. “It was more than I had expected to read from any intended parent,” she noted.

But then came the true test. She was sent through a series of medical assessments—all on her own time. Her uterus was measured, her blood was drawn, and she was poked and prodded to see if she was fit enough to carry a child for them. And air tight contracts were drawn up.

“It’s a sacrifice in the beginning,” she said. “You run around on your own time for the appointments; they pay for the procedures but you have to make the time.”

It was August of 2012 when she agreed to accept the match with the couple and, finally, in April of 2013, she was ready for the embryo transfer.

“Leading up to the transfer were 4-6 weeks of hormone shots and more hormone shots right before,” Nicole explained.

The expected couple was located in Hawaii—which sounds glamorous. But when Nicole flew there from Southern California for the transfer, she spent the entire time on bed rest.

“I’m in Hawaii for four days and all I saw was the airport,” she recalled with a smile.

And then she came back home and waited two weeks for the good news.

But she wasn’t pregnant.

“I felt a big burden on my part that it didn’t work; I was devastated and had so much guilt,” she said. “I felt like I let them down.”

However, with all those hormone shots running through her, she was ready to go again immediately. This time the expected parents came to Southern California, with a new embryo, and two weeks later she found herself pregnant with a child for them.

“It was very emotional—and pretty awesome—they came out again at the 17-week mark to learn the sex of the baby,” she said. “And then I saw them again during delivery, which, I have to say, was easier than my first with my own son.”

However, her “job” wasn’t done with the C-section delivery.

For two weeks after, she brought the new parents breast milk every day for feedings.

“I wasn’t expecting to see the baby as much as I did,” Nicole said. “Actually—I wasn’t expecting to love him as much as I did.

Although, it is a different love than for my own son; I would say it is like the love for a niece or a nephew.”

Thinking of serving as a surrogate?

Here are a few agencies to help get you started on your search:

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Sunrise Surrogacy Solutions Jennifer Eckhardt Agency Owner Surrogacy Facilitator 888­400­0944 Fax: 888­400­0955 jenn@sunrisesurrogacy.com www.sunrisesurrogacy.com

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However, when the two weeks were up, she was ready to be done, to stop the driving and the breast milk, to go on a diet, go for a run—and go be a mom for her own son (age 3 at the time) with some renewed energy.

“It was relief mixed with sadness to see them go,” Nicole said.

And that was it. She gave the gift of a child to someone and she wanted to move on.

Or so she thought.

Less than a year later she did it again. She wanted to both emotionally and financially. We haven’t talked about the financial piece yet. So, what is the financial gain?

She explained that while money changes hands, the rewards seem to make it all worthwhile. And while she can’t speak for every surrogate, it is offensive when people ask her how much she makes for doing it.

“You don’t ask anyone else how much she makes at her job,” Nicole said. “But the biggest misconception is I, or surrogates, am selling my baby for money. The financial helps, but I put my life on hold … and the surrogate gets as much out of it, creating a family.”

For the record, she earned $26,000 for the first surrogacy and $32,000 for the second.

The payments come in monthly. The expected couple also pays for a maternity clothing allowance around $500 ($750 for twins), prenatal vitamins, medical insurance premiums, procedures needed outside of insurance coverage, copays and all expenses for the delivery, which is written into the contract.

There is a small stipend also included if anything were to affect the surrogate, such as loss of her own reproductive organs.

When the first payment came in, she took her young son to Toys “R” Us. “It felt so good to be able to provide for him,” she noted of the trucks, games and videos she hadn’t been able to afford prior.

“With the first surrogacy, it was such a great experience,” she continued.

With the next, Nicole wanted to start her own business to provide a better life for her son.

“Part of me needed to, part of me wanted to,” she said of the desire for the second time. “But I did think to myself, ‘Wow, I’m crazy!’”

After the emotional experience of the first, she wanted it to be “lighter and more fun,” so she chose a same-sex couple as a match. She also chose not to use an agency and did an independent surrogacy—but that meant she did her own negotiations, legal contracts and billing. It was a lot of work. Plus, she felt more emotional distance between the couple and herself.

And it was a hard pregnancy.

“With the first, I bounced back fast. This time, I gained more weight, I was sick, I had internal bleeding,” she said. “I needed a blood transfusion … it felt so good once the baby was finally out.”

And once the delivery happened, she didn’t see them again.

“People always worry about the surrogate that we can’t give the baby over to the couple,” Nicole said. “But we know the whole time that it’s not our baby.”

However, she still receives photos and correspondence from her first delivery. She and her son have met the family at Disneyland; when Nicole’s stepdad went to Hawaii he also visited the family.

“I know it isn’t always like this,” she noted. “But if the relationship continues, you’re really lucky.”

So now as a business owner, with a degree under her belt and a new relationship, will she do it again?

“It’s such a roller coaster ride and it’s really exciting. But if you had asked me in March, I’d have said no,” she stated, “… but now I probably wouldn’t be too quick to say no; I would be open to having another baby. It really is creating a family for someone.” ❖

San Diego Fertility Center 11515 El Camino Real Suite 100 San Diego, CA, 92130 858­794­6363 Fax: 858­794­6360 www.sdfertility.com

Growing Generations 5900 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 550 Los Angeles, CA 90036 323­965­7500 Fax: 323­965­0900 family@GrowingGenerations.com www.GrowingGenerations.com

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BUBBLES & BREWS

SANTA MONICA NIGHTLIFE ROCKS AT

THE BUNGALOW ✒ BY

LINDA LANG

The Outside Deck has its own bar as well as panoramic views of the Pacific.

The Bungalow is not just another bar. It's a place to go with friends after work to relax in an inviting, beachhouse setting and catch up over a glass of merlot or a frosted Margarita as you watch the sun turn the sky blazing red as it disappears into the ocean. It's where 20 somethings replace the earlier crowd about 9 pm and feel equally at home. There isn't a dance floor or ear-shattering music, yet The Bungalow is one of the Southland's hottest, multigenerational nightlife venues.

It took visionary Brent Bolthouse 10 years to find just the right property in Santa Monica. He wanted to create a special place that had what he calls "Santa Monica DNA in its soul" and found the perfect spot on the coastline where Wilshire Boulevard meets Ocean Avenue. There, on the corner grounds of the famed H

BY TIFFANY ROSE / THE BUNGALOW

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French doors welcome ocean breezes into the Game Room with its custom pool table and mid1930’s light fixtures.

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Guests often relax around the fire pit after dusk.

Comfortable couches and cozy seating provide a relaxing atmosphere in the Main Bar.

Each area of the Outside Deck has something special to offer.

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The music, a soundscape curated by Bolthouse, embraces everything from old Motown, '6Os soul, Donovan, and the Black Keys to the Edward Sharpes of the 21st century.

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Fairmont Miramar Hotel, he worked with Studio Collective to take an empty, free-standing 1947-era bungalow with open, flowing rooms and design an inviting spot where neighborhood residents could feel as welcome as they would in one another's homes. The rich, warm décor, reflective of the past 50 years, is infused with Baja, California ambience in celebration of the diverse culture in which we live.

The six distinctively-furnished upscale rustic rooms include the Main Bar with its roaring wood-burning stove, solid oak herringbone floors and soaring ceiling complete with wood rafters. Iron chandeliers in the State Room shine down upon a hand-crafted oak dining table complemented by white wicker chairs. Large French doors open onto the private East Garden patio with more seating around a glowing fireplace. Leading to another private sitting area landscaped with fountains and dense colorful foliage is a flagstone and moss walkway.

Next door is the Game Room with its custom wooden pool table, table games, decorative mid-1930’s light fixtures and French doors opening to the gentle ocean breeze. The rich, warm tones of the Study create the perfect upscale beach house setting for cocktail parties, sit-down dinners and small business meetings far removed from the blank canvas of the typically sterile hotel facility. And most of the year, you can gather on the Outside Deck with its large brick patio and wooden deck filled with cozy couches, chairs and strands of twinkling lights.

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THE RECIPES

The Bungalow Margarita & Bitchin' Sangria

The Bungalow Margaritas

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THE BUNGALOW MARGARITA Ingredients: 1.5 oz Avión tequila 1/4 oz Cointreau 3/4 oz lime juice 1/2 oz simple syrup Instructions: Combine all ingredi­ ents together. Serve over rocks with a lime garnish in a salted rim glass.

BITCHIN' SANGRIA Ingredients: 1 bottle of California Pinot Noir 1/2 bottle of California Cabernet Sauvignon 8 oz Oro Pisco 8 oz St. Germain 6 oz agave nectar 4 dashes of Regan's

Orange Bitters #6 • 1/4 pineapple, rough­ ly chopped • 1 pink lady apple, roughly chopped (any will do) • 1 orange, roughly chopped • 1 grapefruit, roughly chopped • 1 mango, roughly chopped • 2 nectarines or plums, when in season Instructions: • Combine all ingredi­ ents together in a large pitcher, cover and store in a refrig­ erator overnight before serving.

• To serve, fill wine glass with ice. Add 5 oz of sangria and garnish with seasonal fruit.

A variety of seating areas on the Outside Deck provides plenty of options.

The music, a soundscape curated

by Bolthouse, embraces everything from old Motown, '60s soul, Donovan, and the Black Keys to the Edward Sharpes of the 21st century.

Live DJs also contribute on occasion, keeping the tone similar.

Specialties of the inside and outside bars include tequila and mezcal (tequila's smoky cousin) cocktails and The Bungalow's signature Margarita, Seaside Punch and Bitchin’ Sangria.

New additions to the drink menu are usually seasonal. In lieu of formal dining, The Bungalow has a close relationship with the Miramar's FIG Restaurant Chef Yousef Ghalaini who recently stepped in as executive chef upon the departure of Ray Garcia. FIG caters The Bungalow's private events with much creativity and provides the exclusive bar menu that includes burgers, tacos, and its popular guacamole and chips.

So next time you're in the area, want to kick back, savor the view and signature Southern California beach community hospitality, The Bungalow is open seven days a week: MondayFriday from 5 pm to 2 am; Saturday and Sunday from 2 pm. You may even run into its legendary creator and co-owner, Brent Bolthouse.

Brent Bolthouse, Creator and CoOwner of The Bungalow, with Ian Ford, Director of Bungalow Operations.

BY ALISON DYER

And if you want a very special setting for a unique and most memorable soiree, cocktail reception, birthday, holiday celebration, sit-down dinner, or inspiring ambience for that small business meeting, check it out. Nike, Google, KCRW Public Radio and a host of others regularly hold their events there, so you'll be in excellent company.

And for those of you near beach cities to the south, look for a second Bungalow with Huntington Beach DNA in its soul to open in 2015. ❖

Location is 101 Wilshire Blvd. in Santa Monica.

For more information and upcoming events, call (310) 899-8530 or go to www.thebungalowsm.com.

The Bungalow's signature Sangria

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as much as i’m aware that I’m the only female on the show, I’ve had so much support from the other trainers and I have the opportunity to be great at my job.

MAKEUP: LAURA CONNELLY HAIR: SHELLEY BRIEN/THE REX AGENCY LOCATION COURTESY OF MANDALAY BEACH HOTEL & RESORTCHANNEL ISLANDS WWW.MANDALAYEMBASSYSUITES.COM

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Jennifer Widerstrom

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Jennifer Widerstrom, or as she has become known as “Jen” to the mass viewers of “The Biggest Loser,” may have been born in Chicago but in the six years she’s lived on the West Coast, she has become a true California girl, extolling the virtues of the region for all things health and fitness.

CHOOSING THE WINNING WAY OF LIFE

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ROBYN FLANS

“When I moved to Southern Cal, it became so clear that there’s an advantage to living here,” Widerstrom says. “I remember the first thing I noticed was every single day the sun is out. It’s easier to get up and put your feet on the ground and want to get outside and move.”

Widerstrom was accustomed to having to exercise inside of a gym pretty much year round in the midwest due to weather conditions she says.

“Now in Southern California, I can hike, I’m on the beach, I’ll even rent a bike down in Santa Monica and ride down the coast. I love being outside.

There’s something about hearing the ground beneath your feet, being up on Runyon Canyon or Fryman Canyon or even Griffith Park and moving around in nature and getting to stand up at the top of that hike and seeing downtown to the ocean.”

Widerstrom says even the food in California is healthier.

“I think there’s a farmer’s market here every day of the week so there’s an accessibility to fresh foods and greens and even the restaurants in the communities are so strongly behind the healthier lifestyle. There is a willingness to walk or bike to where you want to go and the willingness to have vegetarian options on your menu and health conscious choices in support of a lifestyle of what a healthy person can do.”

And that whole package -- exercise, commitment to healthy food choices, positive decisions in life, getting sleep and taking care of yourself -- is why Widerstrom does what she does.

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It began with weightlifting as a kid, which she enjoyed sharing with her father. She loved sports and gymnastics and while others her age had posters of rock stars on their walls, Widerstrom, admittedly a “different kind of kid,” had a poster of Arnold Schwarzenegger on hers.

“I had an 8x10 photo of Arnold but as Conan the Barbarian framed and hanging in my room and I brought it for show and tell day because you had to say something about a hero in your life,” says Widerstrom.

She actually got to meet that hero when the editor of Muscle and Fitness invited her to a photo shoot about a year ago. She was so thrilled to meet the man she says started it all for the industry of fitness and wellness within.

“He changed the entire climate of wellness and fitness,” she says. “He made it cool, he shed education and light on why it’s important.”

Widerstrom went on to get a degree in sports administration at the University of Kansas.

“I knew I loved people and wanted to work with people,” she says. “My parents were both educators and coaches in high schools, so I gravitated towards that desire to help people.”

She arrived in L.A. six years ago to work on American Gladiators, which occurred after casting discovered her photos from a magazine shoot she did in Chicago.

When they chose her it was a “pinch me” moment which didn’t last long because the show was cancelled.

She was devastated, but she looks

back on it now and realizes it was meant to be.

“I would not have actualized my true career purpose, which is to help people through wellness, which is what I am doing through ‘The Biggest Loser.’”

She began working at a gym, teaching one day a week until she was in such demand that she was booked seven days each week.

“It was such a beautiful accident,” Widerstrom says. “I got to the point where I was thinking there had to be a way to touch more lives with the amount of energy I was putting out. I was exhausted and felt I was barely making a dent in the world.”

When she received an e-mail asking her to interview for “The Biggest Loser,” she took a double-take.

“I wondered, ‘Did I read that right? Do they really want to meet with me?’”

She says interviewing for the show was a wonderful process, where producers really wanted to know about her morals and point of view. They certainly chose her because of her belief system of putting people first.

“It’s about treating the person and identifying for them where they get stuck, what are their emotional blocks and what we can do to find their way,” Widerstrom says.

Addressing the issue of women’s self-image and the previous controversy that occurred on the show about losing weight too fast, Widerstrom CONTINUED

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i think we’re all on this planet to look out for each other. i think it’s important to live in service of others.

> (1) There are so many hikes in LA but I love Griffith Park.

There are several options and they're so far away from any car or urban vibes so it's truly fresh, quiet space. (2) Pulse Fitness Studio in Sherman Oaks. It was my first job when I came to LA and I still work there! I absolutely love this place and it yields great results. (3) Any class that Mary O'Malley teaches! She is a Pilates and Gyrotonic guru, my personal coach through changing my body and keeping my body pain free, and truly heaven sent for all of the students she works with. (4) Play at the beach without making it about burning calories. I tend to go a little further north past Zuma out where it's not quite as busy. I try my luck in the waves, walk through the shore line then always end up napping on the beach. (5) Crossfit Horsepower.

This is where I do a lot of my training and it's not only because of the great coaching, but of the incredible community that's there. I always love my time there and feel so elevated when I leave that place.

Anybody starting out in their fitness journey can feel 100% confident about starting here.

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JEN’S FITNESS FIX

says, “Our society has made a shift toward a very visual community.

Everything is on Instagram, everything is Twitter, let’s take a selfie, everything is as visual as magazine covers and there is a value tied to appearance. I try to tie value to who they are as people.”

Filling Jillian Michael’s shoes she says has been a seamless transition.

“Every trainer on this show has been on because of their excellence, so it’s exciting to have the opportunity to place my own stamp on it. As much as I’m aware that I’m the only female on the show, I’ve had so much support from the other trainers and I have the opportunity to be great at my job.”

She says the staff that includes a dietician and psychologist is making sure the contestants are taking the weight loss in a healthy progression.

“I’m there honing in on the education and information around the healthy way to do the weight loss,” she says. “Not only on the show, but how to sustain it when they go back home,” says Widerstrom who knows the outside changes much faster than the inside when a person loses weight.

She prides herself on giving her clients blueprints for working on themselves.

“It’s not my hope to keep my clients for life. At some point you have to graduate from Team Jen and do this on your own,” she says.

Widerstrom has long been immersed in giving on a larger level, too. She has volunteered at orphanages throughout Africa and visited the troops repeatedly.

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE - JAN.FEB2015

“I think we’re all on this planet to look out for each other,” she says. “I think it’s important to live in service of others. For the amount of good that has been presented in my life, the amount of mentorship that has been bestowed upon me, I would love to be able to create that for someone else.”

As for her own life, 32-year-old Widerstrom says she has been concentrating on the career purpose.

“Yes, I am looking forward to a cool relationship,” she admits. “I am single right now, but intuitively with everything I’ve taken on with this show, being single right now is perfect. Right now my focus is to be great at my job and the relationships with my contestants and stay connected with friendships and relationships both in L.A. and at home, especially my family. For me to add on a significant other, as much as it’s important to me and I look forward to meeting him, I’m going to trust the timing.”

“I can look back at all the weird right turns in my life that didn’t make sense at the time, but now I can step outside the frame and see the whole picture and get it.” ❖

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john was wicked, he had a sharp sense of humor and said what he thought.

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-ivor davis

Ivor Davis

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SO CAL LOCAL AND HIS LIFE WITH THE BEATLES In 1964, Ivor Davis, West

✒ BY

BY RON JOY/BELLE SCHWARTZ ESTATE

Coast correspondent for the London Daily Express, was thrust into the pandemonium of Beatlemania when he was assigned to accompany the four lads on their first American 5week tour. At the time, Davis, a relocated Brit had no idea these boys would make history. Even they had no idea, Davis says.

ROBYN FLANS Ivor Davis with George Harrison during summer 1964 Beatles Tour. Ivor was George's ghostwriter for his column in the Express.

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“John was wicked, he had a sharp sense of humor and said what he thought,” Davis says.

“Of celebrities, the only other person who had a quick mind like John was Robin Williams.

They both thought at warped speed. I remember when we were detoured to Key West, Florida because of a hurricane, no one knew we were there and we all hung out in John’s bungalow. We were watching Fidel Castro on television. It was in Spanish and none of us understood and after about 20 minutes, John turned off the sound and started doing a Fidel Castro impersonation -- in Spanish. And he never knew Spanish. He was great fun. I enjoyed him so much.”

Davis says Paul McCartney was the greatest schmoozer on the face of the earth.

“Whenever we took off on the plane, Paul would come along and say, ‘Ivor, would you like a drink?’ And he would go to the galley and get me a drink. At the time it was good fun, but when I think back it’s like, wow, Paul McCartney, my

>

“None of us knew,” says Davis who has lived in Southern California all this time. “When I said to Ringo, ‘What are you going to do with your money?’ He said, ‘I’m going to open a hairdressing salon.’ And Paul said, ‘I’ll write music for other people.’”

After 50 years of countless dinner parties at which the mere mention of his Beatle escapades brought eye-popping reaction to other guests, Davis knew his day-to-day account of life on the road, “The Beatles and Me” had to be written, he says.

“To be honest, I’m a journalist, I should know a good story when I see it,” says Davis who went on to travel with Bobby Kennedy and was at the Ambassador Hotel the night he was assassinated, covered the L.A. Watts riots, and the later the Angela Davis and Daniel Ellsberg trials.

“The Beatles and Me” will make any fan jealous, traveling in the private jet and in “Limo 2” behind the band as he chronicles his favorite memories of his relationship with each Beatle.

Monopoly with John Lennon at 2:00 a.m. is one of Davis’ favorite memories on the road “because they were prisoners” in the hotels.

Davis says Lennon was the Beatle he most enjoyed.

THE BEATLES AND ME by ivor davis

personal waiter.”

George Harrison was quiet at the beginning, Davis says, but because he was assigned to ghostwrite a column in the newspaper for the Beatle, Harrison warmed up.

“I wondered why he didn’t smile much, but I discovered much later it was because he didn’t have good teeth,” Davis says.

Davis regrets not holding on to any of the memorabilia from that trip, but he simply had no idea there would be any reason for its importance.

“We never knew we would still even be talking about them,” Davis says. ❖

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Hayley Orrantia

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it’s so different from the experience of plugging your phone in and pressing play and having an auxiliary cord. don’t get me wrong, i love all that because it’s so easily accessible, but the record thing is so cool.

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WARDROBE: AUDREY BRIANNE AGENCY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DALE BERMAN

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VINYL COMEBACK MADNESS

For “The Goldbergs” star Hayley Orrantia, collecting vinyl has been much more than just a trend. Originally she found some old records that she hung up on her wall as decorations, but when she saw a record player for sale, she and her roommate decided they’d love to see what the records would sound like. ✒ BY

ROBYN FLANS

her first day in town for pilot season. Now in season two, the actress says it’s been a bit of a whirlwind.

“Seeing myself on TV is a bit weird, my friends are having watch parties and it’s really weird, but I’ve been enjoying it and the best part is I absolutely adore all the cast, crew, writers and everybody on set, so it makes work so much easier that it’s not even work, really.”

She says she relates to the part of the character Erica when her parents ask her to do things that she wants to do later.

“It’s almost like quoting something that I argued with my real parents about,” Orrantia says. “The writers make it so relatable to all ages and people. I love being able to play a sassy character. I hope I’m not as mean as Erica is on the show.”

Orrantia says she actually went to the writer once to complain about the cruel thing Erica was saying to her mom on the show.

“I said, ‘I don’t want people to watch the show and despise my character and have no one to relate to her,’ and he said that my character was based on the older brother, Eric of the creator of the show, Adam Goldberg and he said he felt that mean to him so they love keeping it as close to the real story as possible. They argue a lot in the Goldberg family, but they love each other to death.”

CONTINUED

SOME OF THE BEST PLACES TO SHOP FOR VINYL IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA: >

“We loved the sound,” Orrantia says. “There’s a crackly, sort of fuzzy sound that a record has that is so cool.”

She even liked the whole look of the record player and the feel of putting the needle down on the disc.

“It’s so different from the experience of plugging your phone in and pressing play and having an auxiliary cord. Don’t get me wrong, I love all that because it’s so easily accessible, but the record thing is so cool.”

When she began collecting a few years ago, she started with Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” then Sonny & Cher, Charlie Pride, and Whitney Houston. It’s grown from there.

But it really started from the fact that she’s a music lover and began to sing at age nine.

By the time she was 14, she was mixing it up, singing and taking acting lessons in Texas and her parents were bringing her to L.A. to try out for acting jobs. She landed a Sprint commercial at 15 and after nearly missing the auditions for the first season of “X Factor” in 2011, Orrantia earned a spot and was put into a group called Lakoda Rayne which made it to the Top Nine.

“Getting the opportunity to have the exposure of TV and getting my name out there was really good for me. I learned a lot and met a lot of really awesome people.”

The group decided to part shortly after the show came to an end and Orrantia’s agent had her audition for “The Goldbergs” on

The Record Parlour 6408 Selma Ave. Hollywood, CA (323) 464-7757 Amoeba Records 6400 W. Sunset Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA (323) 245-6400 Origami Vinyl 1816 W. Sunset Blvd.

Echo Park, CA (213) 413-3030 Third Eye Records 2701 E. 4th St. Long Beach, CA (714) 415-9814 Record City 3757 6th Ave. San Diego, CA (619) 291-5313

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Chris Honetschlaeger, who founded the Record Parlour a little over a year ago said there are many reasons for the resurgence of vinyl.

"For some people it's as simple as the fact that, for the first time, you can touch the medium of music. There's a very interpersonal relationship when you can touch the thing that you put on the platter and then it plays hopefully great music back to you.

When you grow up with just a touch screen and you are swiping your finger across the screen, it's a completely different experience from when you're holding a piece of vinyl that is playing the music," says Honetschlaeger adding that even a CD vanishes into a device, while you can see the grooves on a record as the disc plays.

"There's also a big movement back to things that are vintage," he says.

"Which is also a movement back to family and back to the rec room which was popular in the '70s. People want to have pinball machines, jukeboxes and a stereo at home."

Honetschlaeger says family and friends are looking to enjoy music together vs. the age of the headphone where people have been playing music separately.

"There is the group of people where records never went away because they sound better," he says. "And another group is driven by bands who are not producing CD's, but are producing vinyl and digital because you can't copy a record which becomes a collectible."

Honetschlaeger says his most popular seller is Fleetwood Mac's "Rumours" and business is booming.

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Orrantia’s true love is still music.

In fact during season one, Erica sang a Joan Jett song on one of the episodes.

Then during hiatus, she travelled to Nashville often to write with songwriters.

She describes the music as country-pop and plans to have a record out soon.

“The plan has been to record an album all along,” Orrantia says.

Right now, she’s just drinking it all in as her whole life undergoes the major changes the move to California and her job has brought her.

“I’m getting opportunities I would never have had before,” she says. “I’ve gotten to work with David Spade which was such a cool experience. Tom Lennon did an episode last season and I adore him and his comedy. Acting has allowed me to meet so many new people and allowed me to go to so many cool events where I have met people I can work with in acting as well as music, so it has changed my life.” ❖

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David Macmillan

“Revenge” 1990, With Patty my wife and son David Andrew working the board, Megan B.G. thinking (I can do this)

“Black Widow” 1986, With Bob Rafaelson, Connie Hall, and John Toll. Future wife Patty was production coordiator.

“Die Laughing” hiding in the closet

With hair and mustache 1982 “ Shoot the Moon”

The old Schoepps colette in the flowers trick “ I Love You To Death” 1990, Bill Hurt, Tracy Ulman, Joan Plowright, Keanu Reeves on right

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AND THE AWARDS GO TO DAVID MACMILLAN Production sound

mixer, David Macmillan, will be honored by the Cinema Audio Society with the Career Achievement Award this season, the highest accolade in his field. ✒ BY

ROBYN FLANS “The Right Stuff” with the late Danny Benson.

“It’s sorta spacey,” no pun intended, Macmillan says of what it feels like when his name was called to win an Oscar. “It’s like, ‘Oh wow, I won.’”

And up you go and you’re up there on stage.

He wore a kilt because he had had a recent skiing accident during which he had broken his leg and didn’t think he could get a tux on.

The kilt became his moniker and they want him to wear one to the Career Achievement Awards.

While the Academy Award is tops to the general population, Macmillan says the Career Achievement Award is special because it comes from his peers.

One of the reasons he is held in such high esteem is he has promoted five other professionals in their positions before retiring last year.

“They are doing shows like “NCIS,” “House of Cards,” “True Detective” “Hart of Dixie” and “Ray Donovan.”

Pretty darn impressive for a career that essentially chose him.

Born in Northern Ireland to a Scottish father and an Irish mother, Macmillan says, “I have a bit of the blarney in me.” He was raised in Canada and decided to serve an apprenticeship with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation since his father was in the business.

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He passed the 3-year program in a year, having been around his father’s work as a youngster and grabbed an opportunity to be part of a documentary sound team at 23.

“In those days they flew you First Class and I thought, ‘This is pretty good, I can do this,’ so I just continued on.”

Macmillan defines a production sound mixer as someone who records dialog on the set, the ambiance sound effects and sometimes recording the live music on the set.

In 1968, he found himself in San Francisco working on a documentary.

He quit the CBC, moved to the area and began associating with some of films' biggest future movers and shakers such as George Lucas and Francis Ford Coppola.

Coppola hired him as his in-house mixer and Macmillan went on to work with him at American Zoetrope for three years until he began to feel he no longer could grow further and needed to go out on his own.

Immediately word got out and “The Right Stuff” came his way. By 1985, Macmillan realized it was time to move to Southern California while making “Space Camp.”

Although Macmillan says every project has its challenges, he says the film for which he received his second

Academy Award, “Speed,” was probably his most challenging.

“It was difficult because the bus had a driver on the roof so you think Sandy Bullock is driving the bus,” Macmillan says. “There was no place for me and I had to sit in the exit door for six weeks.”

But Macmillan says the biggest highlight for him was meeting his wife, Patty, on the movie “Black Widow” on which she was the film’s coordinator.

“You could have knocked me over with tissue paper when I found out she was interested in me,” he says.

The marriage of 28 years is a much bigger highlight than any award to Macmillan.

“I love that film,” says Macmillan.

“We met in Seattle and fell in love in Hawaii. I asked her to marry me in October and we were married in January. We had our first baby the following December.”

The retired production sound mixer teaches at UCLA and USC once a week during the Fall semester.

“It’s great fun,” he says. “It keeps me kinda youthful.”

Macmillan has won three Oscars for his work on "The Right Stuff", "Speed" and "Apollo 13." ❖

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Stephen Francis Jones

DEL FRISCO GRILL

BY GARY MOSS

DEL FRISCO GRILL (2)

BY WELDON BREWSTER

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if i get a client who at the end takes credit for the design, i feel good about that. i’ve done my job.

LA BREA BAKERY (3)

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CREATOR OF SO CAL’S HOTTEST RESTAURANTS

Go into Spago in Beverly Hills sometime and you can have lunch with Stephen Francis Jones. No appointment required. He’s always there, in the courtyard beneath the big old sycamore tree, or in the bar beneath the vaulted ceilings, even in the kitchen where Wolfgang Puck whips up his signature smoked salmon pizzas. ✒ BY

MICHAEL FLEEMAN

As one of Southern California’s leading architects, Jones has designed some of the region’s most famous restaurants and hottest nightspots: La Brea Bakery in Los Angeles, the VeggieGrills on the Westside, Lucky Strike bowling alley in Hollywood, the Del Frisco Grill in Irvine. And while his other commissions have also reached the ends of the Earth, from Mister Donut in Japan to the Java House franchise in Kenya, the Manhattan Beach-based Jones’ sensibilities and inspirations remain firmly rooted in his home. “It’s really the center of my universe,” he tells Southern California Life. “The people who make it happen are making it happen in Southern California.

There’s no other place where I could be doing what I’m doing.”

Raised in Orlando, Florida, Jones once aspired to the grandest of canvasses, working on skyscraper designs in Boston after graduating from the University of Florida. But he would find his calling much closer to the ground. After graduate school at UCLA, he landed a job with a firm designing restaurants. “It was really intriguing,” he recalled, “and I’m going to opening parties. Remember, I’m in my early 20s.” He learned not only the aesthetics of interior and exterior restaurant design but also the mechanizations of the kitchen – and how better design could improve everybody’s experience.

An early assignment, Typhoon restaurant at Santa Monica Airport,

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came as new building codes allowed for the walls between cook and diner to be torn down, literally. Creating the exhibition kitchen at Typhoon allowed customers to enjoy the spectacle of chefs making exotic meals of scorpions, crickets and frog legs, while at the other end of the restaurant, through a wall of windows, diners could watch private Cessnas and corporate Lear jets land at the airport.

It was restaurant as theatre, and the idea carried over to his biggest challenge. After working as the in-house architect for Puck’s string of eateries, Jones struck out on his own and was tapped in the mid-1990s to reinvent the flagship Spago. The partnership with Puck and then-wife (and Puck empire executive) Nancy Lazaroff led to the indoor-outdoor foodie oasis built around that stately sycamore, the restaurant’s design infused with Barbara’s “flame of life” concept. And at the center of it all was the floor show from the exhibition kitchen with frequent appearances by Puck himself.

“Spago,” says Jones, “was my big break.”

From there, Jones never looked back, guided by the Spago template.

“Most of my projects, I feel, are collaborations. My best projects come of clients who have strong ideas,” says Jones. “If I get a client who at the end takes credit for the design, I feel good about that. I’ve done my job. The hardest projects are the ones where the clients don’t really know what they want and don’t have a story to tell.”

And so Jones strives for that dramatic punch. At La Brea Bakery, it’s the 35-foot-long illuminated jewel case of pastries, breads and sandwiches, or at Lucky Strike the lanes bathed in retro neon. But he would then balance it with what he calls “comfortable materials,” like walls of old exposed brick. At Del Frisco Grill, the “glass box” entryway showcases the vast wine collection, but then, he said, “I used walnut, but low-grade walnut that had more character to it.” Del Frisco also embraces Jones’ love of designing the inside in a way that remembers the outside. So there’s a calm dining room accentuated by another exhibition kitchen, but also a patio and sunroom “that have completely different experiences,” he says.

It’s a celebration of Southern California, the old, the new, the outdoor and indoor blended seamlessly, and it’s in the southland where he finds his creative energy. Three mornings a week, he leaves the home he designed himself – and shares with his wife, an urban planner, and their two children -- for UCLA’s aquatic center at Marina del Rey, hitting the water by 6 a.m. for the Zen of rowing. “I’m literally six inches above the water which is all glassy,” he says. “I get into this rhythm. I use that time to think about my projects. It’s my hour-and-ahalf of bringing it all in. When I get into the office, I feel like I’ve already done my work.”❖

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Salvador Santana

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the reward of making music is not just the paycheck. if i can impact and touch somebody’s life in a positive way, that’s my inspiration.

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GIVING BACK THROUGH MUSIC

When an aspiring musician is born into music royalty, as in the case of Salvador Santana and his prominent father Carlos Santana, there is often a blessing/curse duality. Genetics is usually a gift, but with artistic desire there comes a need to succeed independently and to reject favors and nepotism of any kind. It’s a tough balance that Salvador Santana knows something about. ✒ BY

ROBYN FLANS

“I strive for that on a regular basis,” Santana admits.

The younger Santana accepted his father’s invitation to open his 2004 tour and he’s grateful for the opportunities that the relationship has provided and the musical situations with which he’s aligned himself with his father. He continues to create his own projects, though, maintaining a healthy distance while still having immense respect for his lineage.

His new project, which will continue his eclectic direction, features another polarity with its title --“Fantasy/Reality.”

“It’s the common marriage between duality -- the ying and the yang,” Santana says. “It’s the balance of everything. Without one, you can’t have the other.”

He says he and guitarist/vocalist Jared Meeker collaborated on the material and produced the album which spotlights his current band consisting of Meeker, Alex Nester, lead vocals and keyboards, Blake Collie, drums and Tristan Garcia, bass.

Bandmate Nester survived cancer at age 16 and Santana lost former band member Jose “Crunchy” Espinosa to the disease in 2011.

“Not a day goes by when I don’t think about him,” Santana says. “We made great music together because we wanted the same thing -- to make people happy with our music and positively distract them from all the crazy stuff that’s going on.”

Nester and Espinoza are two big reasons Santana is very involved in can-

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cer philanthropy including the benefits Nester does for the Marcelle Erian Cancer Foundation.

“The reward of making music is not just the paycheck,” Santana says. “If I can impact and touch somebody’s life in a positive way, that’s my inspiration.”

Born in Northern California and now residing in So Cal, Santana says his early inspiration came from many sources as a youngster. Obviously his father, but also church.

“I was very young so I don’t remember too much of it, but I have still frames of seeing my dad’s dad singing and performing mariachi with his band.

It was a blessing to be surrounded by musicians with incredible talent.

Santana says his father first introduced him to the drums at around age three because he felt it was important to understand the concept of rhythm, tempo and time. Guitar came shortly thereafter and then piano.

“Piano just resonated with me from day one,” he says. “Someone once said a piano is like an orchestra at your fingertips. It just felt right.”

He learned the fundamentals of jazz, blues and classical all at the same time.

“Some would have said it would have been overwhelming and over-stimulating, but for me it was great,” he says.

As far back as he can remember, he would accompany his father to concerts often in the Southern California area where they had lots of family. He attended California Institute of the Arts in Valencia since it was affiliated with the San Francisco School of the Arts,

which he attended for high school.

He met his future wife, Megan, at college and the school gave him a great foundation he says.

“College is an important time in anybody’s life,” Santana says. “It was pretty cool to have the opportunity to go there and study under the people I got to study with. I wanted the educational advantages that came with that situation of being at Cal Arts. It was just incredible. And having family support me making those decisions at the end of the day really helped.”

For Santana, family has been part of his two biggest highlights, including the most recent duet of the National Anthem with his father at Game 4 of the World Series.

“That whole experience for me...”

Santana’s voice trails off. “Honestly, the only thing that compares to that is having the opportunity to win a Grammy at the age of 16.”

Santana is referring to the fact that he co-wrote “El Farol” from the 1999 Grammy winning album Supernatural.

He says the experience was “surreal.”

“I don’t think it affected me until years later, though,” he says. “When you’re in high school, there are weirder things that are far more important. I don’t think it sunk in until later, and other than that, performing at the World Series with my dad was pretty cool.” ❖

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIONEL DELUY

"It is kind of crazy for me that people think I have changed the culinary landscape in Los Angeles.”

THE TASTE’S CHEF LUDO LEFEBVRE DISHES ON HIS EXPANDING EMPIRE AND WHY MIXING BUSINESS WITH PLEASURE HAS BEEN A SUCCESS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ludo Lefebvre is one unique restauranteur. The Burgundy-bred impresario of pop-up dining, who also happens to be a mentor on ABC’s “The Taste,” changed the way Angelenos can appreciate fine cuisine.

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he 43-year-old launched a ticketed dining experience with the opening of Trois Mec in April 2013 - a controversial decision he doesn’t regret. “[People said] no one in L.A. will buy tickets,” Lefebvre tells So Cal Life. “But with the size of the restaurant and the kind of experience we wanted to offer, there was really no choice. I have learned in life that I have to do what I believe in my gut will work. I am happy to have made the leap to be the first in L.A. [to offer tickets]. Everyone in the equation is committed to a great dining experience.”

Guests make purchases to Trois Mec (which is French slang for “three guys”) two weeks before they dine. They are usually $75 and include a full meal, sans alcohol.

“If we left it to chance with no-shows being an option, the experience would have definitely changed,” the chef says. “I hope more restaurants follow our lead and use a ticketed system.”

But those who aren’t for buying tickets can still get a taste of Lefebvre’s flavor.

Located next door to Trois Mec (near Hollywood) is Petit Trois, a reservation-free eatery that opened earlier this year. For a much more casual dining experience, LudoBird is located inside the Staples Center. The comfort food-filled menu boasts an array of fried chicken options, something Lefebvre calls his “guilty pleasure food.”

And then there are the ongoing LudoBites pop-ups.

“It is kind of crazy for me to think that I have changed the culinary landscape in Los Angeles,” Lefebvre says. “Pop-ups gave me a business model and an opportunity to really have Los Angeles understand who I was as a chef. It makes me happy that many other chefs have discovered this outlet, either as a stop gap to a situation or as a full-time business model.”

And now is a better time than ever to thrive in the Los Angeles restaurant business.

“L.A. has way more diversity [with food] than New York,” Lefebvre explains. “It’s more accessible. Don’t get me wrong, New York is a great city, but all the restaurants there are the

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“I have learned in life that I have to do what I believe in my gut will work.

I am happy to have made the leap to be the first in L.A. [to offer tickets].”

same with the same concept very European, Italian, French.

In L.A., we have a lot of great chefs who are Latino, Asian, Peruvian, Mexican. We have a strong style of cooking here.”

As for his own preferences, Lefebvre doesn’t have a picky palette.

“I love all different kinds of cuisine,” he says. “I love Mexican, Latino, Peruvian, Korean, Chinese, Japanese. I get so much inspiration [from these]. I love to go to Night+Market. They have a Thai chef and I really like what he’s doing.”

Lefebvre also finds excitement in judging dishes made by contestants on “The Taste,” alongside fellow mentors Anthony Bourdain, Nigella Lawson and Marcus Samuelsson.

“We want our contestants to succeed,” he says. “Yes, there’s a lot of tension sometimes, but we are fighting because we care about our teams. It puts some pressure between the mentors.

It’s a competition between the contestants and a competition between the mentors. [But] the mentors all go out after the shows. We go out to eat and drink. We stay in touch. It’s just a game.”

With all of his success, the father of two acknowledges much of it would not be possible without the help of his wife and business partner, Kristine, a former “Apprentice” contestant and model, who practices law.

“The life of a chef or restauranteur is a challenging and tiring one,” Lefebvre - who recently updated his best-selling book “Crave: A Feast of the Senses” in honor of its tenth anniversary - says. “Someone marrying into that life has to be prepared. My wife had some restaurant experience from college days, but it is really her business and legal experience that made for the perfect partnership in business. We had already been married almost ten years when we started working together. It was nice because we got to see each other a lot more once we started LudoBites.”

Adds Lefebvre: “Now she doesn’t work in the restaurants, per-se, but she is the engine that keeps the machine working behind the scenes. She’s responsible for my brand and I completely trust her. That is the most important thing I think.

As she likes to say, she will read the contracts and leave the cooking to me.” ❖

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For many of us, the gym is nothing more than an unmet New Year’s resolution—something we know is good, even necessary, but the more it is put off, the higher the hurdle seems to be until we have filled our lives and our time with other, more immediate tasks.

HAIR AND MAKEUP WHITNEY GREGORY/CLOUTIER REMIX PHOTOGRAPHED AT BOXeight STUDIOS

BALANCED LIFESTYLES, BALANCED BODIES ✒

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or siblings Stephen and Denise Guidry, it could be said that the gym is their lifestyle, but that would belie the balance they have found in their daily lives. Their time at the gym is ample, but not all-consuming.

And it just might hold a mirror to the rest of us convinced that six-pack abs come with daily, six-hour gym sessions.

Denise, 37, and Stephen, 36, both compete in body-based competitions, though neither of them are “bodybuilders” in the traditional sense. Both compete (and win) in events where the focus is an overall “fit” image— not the exaggerated look of many bodybuilding events.

Stephen competes in Men’s Physique competitions, where he is judged based on his muscularity, yes, but also his symmetry and overall body conditioning.

Stephen explains, “We are into health and fitness, more natural than extremist—and our competitions are drug-free.”

Denise’s bikini fitness competitions are similar, rewarding a look that does not appear to be over-trained or over-dieted. And nothing about this bikini contest is what you’d find in a beauty pageant or wet T-shirt contest: this is a collection of athletes, but not athletes who feel the need to hide or morph their figures. “While the bikini division is not a beauty pageant, it is the softer side of bodybuilding, and I

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY BENNY HADDAD

“BALANCE IS SO IMPORTANT TO YOUR HEALTH.”

do enjoy having curves, being sexy and feminine,” Denise said.

So what does it take for Stephen and Denise to maintain these competition-worthy fitness levels? Not as much as I would have guessed (or hoped). Stephen, who owns his own fitness and personal training company, Rise Above the Bar, works out four or five days a week for about two hours a day. Denise, a certified fitness trainer at Gold’s Gym in downtown Los Angeles, commits to six days a week, but also for “only” two hours a day.

A commitment, yes, but not the full-time job I imagined it would take to be in such prime physical health. When I mentioned my surprise, Denise was emphatic that a balanced lifestyle makes the difference. “Balance is so important to your health,” she said.

Stephen added that “In addition to working out, diet and nutrition are key.” He cites eating five or six daily meals and drinking a gallon of water a day as keys to his success, but even these two confess to “pig out” after a competition.

Part of this lifestyle balance incorporates exercise into more leisurely and fun activities, such as hiking and cycling, but not always.

Both enjoy visiting local beaches, exploring their Los Angeles surroundings and relaxing at home.

Denise adds wine tasting to the list—when she’s not prepping for a competition, that is. ❖

If you’d like to see Stephen and Denise in their element, both will be competing at the 12th Annual FitExpo (thefitexpo.com/la.asp) on Feb. 7 and 8 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

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TRAVEL TIPS

RESOLVING TRAVEL TIFFS You know how a vacation, a day trip, or an adventure can get spoiled when you have a disagreement or are at odds with your travel partner? It can ruin a potentially exciting and fun time and leave you both disappointed.

In reality, it’s usually not if something unpleasant will happen, but when it will happen and what will set it in motion.

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ESTHER C. BLEUEL, MA, MFT, MDR

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Stop and think before you speak. This can be difficult! Do it anyway.

• Thinking allows you to choose your response.

Emotional and psychological fitness are key to smoothing out the wrinkles and recovering from the ditches of life. Because, often, it’s not what happens that matters so much. Rather, it’s how you handle it that really counts.

• Reacting without thought can cause damage that’s difficult to repair.

• Take a deep breath (or three) to slow things down.

• Regulate your behavior (no kicking, hitting or cursing)

As long as you can manage yourself, you can handle any difficult situation.

Even a minor spat with your travel partner could spoil a day or an entire stay. No matter how long or short your trip is, the goal is to have smooth sailing.

So, here are a few tips to help you get things back on track before things escalate.

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Communicate your understanding of the situation.

• What was intended?

• Describe the impact on you. How do you feel?

“

• Give the benefit of the doubt to your companion.

• Acknowledge the other person’s perspective.

if the fight was about a bad situation, help each other to move forward and not allow external circumstances to define your day or stay.”

• Ask for what you need.

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What do you want to have happen, now?

• Is it important to be right and win?

• Is it more important to get a good result?

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Take a little break to cool off.

• Find a distraction or a little time apart.

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Decide to get things back on track.

• If there is a significant or long-standing issue to discuss, set a time when you are able to talk.

BY MERYDOLLA

• If the fight was about a bad situation, help each other to move forward and not allow external circumstances to define your day or stay.

Keep the main thing as the main thing -to enjoy your time and experiences with your partner. Focus on what your time together will be like when it’s good. ❖

Got a tough question or delicate dilemma you want Esther to help you solve?

E-mail her at Esther@socallifemag.com and she may address it in her Trending Talk column in an upcoming edition.

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Erica Petal Mutch at Hidden Valley Ranch offers programs for all ages and ability levels in Hunters and Jumpers One on one and group instruction for the beginner and the experienced rider

Hidden Valley . Thousand Oaks Erica Petal Mutch ericamutch@gmail.com 310.883.8389

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So Cal's Five of the Top Mexican Restaurants Although Mexico is right next door, and Spanish is the second most spoken language, it's not always easy to find authentic Mexican cuisine. Nothing against La Salsa or Baja Fresh, but neither one spices the palate and spellbinds the sight the same way that certain Chicano restaurants do.

But here at Southern California Life, we've decided to do the leg work for you, so you can rest yours, pop open a cerveza, and take note of some of the top five Mexican culinary establishments, from Santa Barbara to San Diego. ✒ BY

GUISADOS TACOS

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4 2100 East Cesar E Chavez Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90033 (323) 264-7201 Known for its braised meat, which is then delicately scooped into homemade tortillas, Guisados offers a host of taco options that will gustatorily transport you to Tehuacán.

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LOS AGAVES

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600 N. Milpas St., Santa Barbara, CA 93103 (805) 564-2626 As Santa Barbara's highest-rated Mexican grub spot according to Yelp.com, you'll be in a state of bliss with the famous Los Agaves Burrito, the seafood tacos, and verde sauce that will vex your friends when you tell them about it.

1416 4th St., Santa Monica, CA 90401 (310) 526-7121 Here you will realize that steak can be as sensual as it is sizzling, because of the series of dishes that it stars in or complements. Not to mention, many patrons swear by carnitas that might be Southern California's best.

3014 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90006 (213) 427-0608 With décor that is quaint, but with just the right touch of edge, you'll feel like you're smack-dab in a scene out of Desperado. The vicarious thrill won't end, either, as long as you delight in the sweltering, impassioned red mole sauce, which will accent and accentuate your Latin senses.

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5 LAS CUATRO MILPAS 1857 Logan Ave., San Diego, CA 92113 (619) 234-4460 Located in San Diego, the ambiance here is understatedly simple, but chock full of chorizos, rolled tacos that will bowl you over, and tamales that will titillate your tummy.

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BY ROBYN FLANS PHOTOGRAPHY BENNY HADDAD xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx CONTINUED H xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx

The Art of Ruling the Red Carpet and Raising Wholesome Kids

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< NATALIE MARTIN FRINGE CREAM TUNIC DRESS; AVAILABLE AT BARNEYS NEW YORK PHOTOGRAPHED IN VIRGINIA ROBINSON’S POWDER ROOM.

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Months later I was walking in Time Square and saw a “ billboard. That was a neat experience after going to so many backs and forths without not getting anything.”

She says multiple fittings are necessary for just one outfit.

There is a stylist, a tailor that must mark the dress for whatever changes that must be made and then a second fitting to make sure the changes were made correctly.

“Sometimes if the events are close enough, you can do two events at one fitting,” she says. “I can pick out a bunch of things, but it doesn’t work like that every time. So for each event you have to do one fitting, then another and depending on how intricate the dress or outfit is, you might have to have a third fitting. And then shoes and jewelry. And that’s fun stuff -- I mean I try to have fun with it, but it’s a whole process,” Alves says. “And with hair and make-up, depending on what you’re doing, you basically need a whole day to get ready,” she says, adding it involves hair stylists and make up artists and a team of people.

Even though she was a model at 19, it could never prepare her for this.

Alves arrived from Brazil to visit relatives in the United States at 15, with a premonition that she would not be going back. She stayed on a couch

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ROXBOROUGH xxxxxxx “The woman would say, ‘What are xxxxxxx STYLIST ASSISTANT xxxxxxx JAZMINE GANDHI you doing? Why are you cleaning my xxxxxxx xxxxxxx house when your boyfriend has a better xxxxxxx HAIR BY xxxxxxx car than I do?’

I said, ‘I didn’t move to the KRISTIN HEITKOTTER xxxxxxx xxxxxxx United States to get married.’ A lot of xxxxxxx MAKEUP BY xxxxxxx times people come from another country xxxxxxx DESIRAE and they decide to take a shortcut and do xxxxxxx CHERMAN/TRACEY xxxxxxx certain things and make compromises. I xxxxxxx MATTINGLY xxxxxxx think it’s a good thing to remember to KEVYN AUCOIN xxxxxxx xxxxxxx follow your road for the right reasons and COSMETICS xxxxxxx xxxxxxx good things will happen.” xxxxxxx Alves’ aunt took her to a modeling xxxxxxx xxxxxxx agent and while that first agency didn’t xxxxxxx xxxxxxx ultimately work out, at 19, Alves signed xxxxxxx xxxxxxx with Major Model. She brought her xxxxxxx xxxxxxx mother out from Brazil and the agency xxxxxxx xxxxxxx helped to move her to New York. xxxxxxx Still, it took her a long time to get her xxxxxxx xxxxxxx first job, going to 15-20 castings a day. xxxxxxx xxxxxxx She finally did it -- she went to a mass xxxxxxx xxxxxxx location shoot for Jockey, she was paid xxxxxxx xxxxxxx without knowing if it would be used. xxxxxxx “Months later I was walking in Time xxxxxxx xxxxxxx Square and saw a billboard,” she says. xxxxxxx xxxxxxx “That was a neat experience after going to xxxxxxx xxxxxxx so many backs and forths without not getxxxxxxx xxxxxxx ting anything.” xxxxxxx xxxxxxx Alves’ career took off and she travelled xxxxxxx all over the world, living out of a suitcase xxxxxxx xxxxxxx in Africa, China, Italy, Paris, Israel, xxxxxxx xxxxxxx London, “you name it, I lived in those xxxxxxx xxxxxxx places,” she says. “It was really neat. xxxxxxx xxxxxxx Greece was one of my favorite places.” xxxxxxx < When her father told her he was worxxxxxxx DEREK LAM xxxxxxx TURTLENECK; ried that she was making “okay” money, xxxxxxx AVAILABLE xxxxxxx AT BARNEYS xxxxxxx xxxxxxx NEW YORK xxxxxxx CAMILA’S xxxxxxx CONTINUED H PERSONAL xxxxxxx WHITE SKIRT xxxxxxx xxxxxxx

I thought, ‘I like this guy, who is this?’

“Flip flops? At Hyde? This is right up my

alley.’ As soon as I thought that, Lance Armstrong had come in to talk to him.

Then it clicked who it was because that was a time the two of them were together all the time.”

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Built in 1911, the Virginia Robinson Gardens was the first luxury estate built in Beverly Hills, and as such, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Owned by retail icons Virginia and Harry Robinson (of Robinson Department Store fame), Virginia Robinson willed the 6-acre property to the County of Los Angeles shortly before her death in 1977. The Gardens are situated behind the Beverly Hills Hotel, which was built a year after the mansion and its grounds. The Hotel has enjoyed visits from such luminaries as the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Fred Astaire, Elvis Presley, Sophia Loren and Charlie Chaplin, and has become a picturesque tribute to an era gone by.

Robinson Gardens 1008 Elden Way Beverly Hills, CA 90210 310/550-2087 www.robinsongardens.org

^ DOLCE AND GABBANA EMBROIDERED SILK TOP WITH SILK SKIRT AVAILABLE AT SELECT DG BOUTIQUES

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xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx > but not tearing it up and he was concerned about her xxxxxxx RED xxxxxxx future, she told him, “No matter what happens, no VALENTINO xxxxxxx DRESS; xxxxxxx one can take my passport away, this experience I’m AVAILABLE xxxxxxx having is priceless.”

AT BARNEYS xxxxxxx xxxxxxx NEW YORK But that future was yet to come ... at the end of xxxxxxx xxxxxxx CHRISTIAN one of those trips, she went back to New York and xxxxxxx LOUBITOUN xxxxxxx broke off a relationship. She traveled to L.A. to visit SHOES xxxxxxx xxxxxxx her mom and began their handbag business. Those xxxxxxx xxxxxxx visits became more frequent and on one of those trips xxxxxxx she met McConaughey. It was obviously meant to be xxxxxxx xxxxxxx because on the way to meet her friend at a then trendy xxxxxxx xxxxxxx bar called Hyde, she was in a car accident and almost xxxxxxx xxxxxxx didn’t go. xxxxxxx xxxxxxx “The car hit me and I was about to head back xxxxxxx home, but where I come from, they say, when good xxxxxxx xxxxxxx things happen to you and also when bad things hapxxxxxxx xxxxxxx pen to you, you have to stop yourself and go with your xxxxxxx xxxxxxx intuition and really feel whether that bad thing is proxxxxxxx xxxxxxx tecting you from something about to happen or if that xxxxxxx xxxxxxx thing is trying to stop you from getting to where you xxxxxxx are supposed to be. I thought about it and thought it xxxxxxx xxxxxxx was trying to stop me from where I was supposed to xxxxxxx xxxxxxx go. So I drove myself in a car that was literally halfway xxxxxxx xxxxxxx beat up.” xxxxxxx xxxxxxx When she showed up at one of the hottest spots xxxxxxx in Hollywood, the valet wouldn’t even park her car xxxxxxx xxxxxxx because it was such a mess. She had to park in the xxxxxxx xxxxxxx nearby gas station. As soon as she went to the bar to xxxxxxx xxxxxxx get some water, she noticed a guy in a Rasta beanie xxxxxxx xxxxxxx hat, in shorts and flip flops. xxxxxxx xxxxxxx “I thought, ‘I like this guy, who is this?’ Flip flops? xxxxxxx At Hyde? This is right up my alley.’ As soon as I xxxxxxx xxxxxxx thought that, Lance Armstrong had come in to talk to xxxxxxx xxxxxxx him. Then it clicked who it was because that was a xxxxxxx xxxxxxx time the two of them were together all the time.” xxxxxxx xxxxxxx She rushed back to her table. The last thing she because of my South American roots. Then Friday xxxxxxx wanted was to engage with another actor, she had just xxxxxxx night it’s the free day when they get to have pizza and xxxxxxx come out of two relationships with two men in the sweet stuff. They get to stay up late and watch a xxxxxxx xxxxxxx business. She turned her back to his gaze, but ... she movie.” xxxxxxx xxxxxxx couldn’t escape. She had already caught his eye. He Alves says all three play outside a lot, riding bikes, xxxxxxx xxxxxxx got out of his seat, came over to her table and she says, doing sports. xxxxxxx xxxxxxx “We hung out that night and the rest is history. The “I haven’t really introduced video games to them,” xxxxxxx minute I met him I knew there was something differAlves says. “I’m not against it, I think everything is xxxxxxx xxxxxxx ent about him.” okay in moderation and the school has some learning xxxxxxx xxxxxxx She and McConaughey have a very busy housegames they do on the computer, but mostly they do xxxxxxx xxxxxxx hold with three children now, Levi, 6, Vida, 4 and things outside.” xxxxxxx xxxxxxx Livingston, 2. Alves is very hands on.

Alves is just getting back into a fitness routine, xxxxxxx She says for the most part, she cooks differently xxxxxxx herself. She says her third pregnancy was very rough xxxxxxx for the kids than she does for her and her husband. with many complications. xxxxxxx xxxxxxx “I’m not a big believer in extremes because I don’t “I had a very hard delivery,” she says. “I basically xxxxxxx xxxxxxx think it’s realistic to every day life and my experience had five surgeries in one. I had bed rest for 30 days xxxxxxx xxxxxxx is that if you are extreme, the child tries to compenand it was a whole lot that my body went through. I’m xxxxxxx xxxxxxx sate with something else, so I try to keep a balance. I just now able to exercise the right way, so I have to xxxxxxx try to eat a healthy diet the whole week with lots of xxxxxxx xxxxxxx vegetables and white meat, lots of rice and beans xxxxxxx CONTINUED H xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxx JAN.FEB2015 - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE

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THE HOOD

TOURNAMENT OF ROSES:

100 YEARS AGO, EAGER CROWDS CHEERED AS GLADIATORS RODE ATOP HORSE-DRIVEN CHARIOTS LIKE “BEN-HUR” BROUGHT TO LIFE IN HONOR OF PASADENA’S TOURNAMENT GAMES ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

On January 1, 1915, thousands of spectators cheered while gladiators rode chariots driven by fierce horses that blazed at lightning speed through Pasadena’s Tournament Games, leaving a tornado of dust in their wake. Tournament leader Edward Hoff called the treacherous, mile-long race “The greatest phenomenon since Rome ruled the world.”

✒ BY

ERIKA THOMAS

1915 Chariot Races

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COURTESY OF THE PASADENA TOURNAMENT OF ROSES

1929 Queen & Court

1902 game: 8,500 people in attendance. Michigan beat Stanford 40-0

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1945 game: 91,000 people in attendance and USC beat Tennessee 25-0

THE CHARIOT RACES FIRST BEGAN IN 1904 AND WOULD BE PART OF THE TOURNAMENT GAMES FOR OVER A DECADE. BUT DESPITE THEIR IMMENSE POPULARITY, 1915 WOULD BE THE FINAL YEAR, AS THE RACE OFTEN RESULTED IN PERMANENT INJURIES OF BOTH THE GLADIATORS AND THE HORSES. THE HIGH-RISK NATURE OF THE EVENT HAD NO DOUBT BEEN PART OF THE ALLURE; ONE OFFICIAL WAS EVEN QUOTED AS SAYING, “I’M NOT SURE WE SHOULD KEEP DOING THIS, BECAUSE SOMEONE MIGHT GET KILLED.” IN 1916, THE TOURNAMENT OF ROSES WOULD RETURN TO FOOTBALL FOR GOOD. “Since the beginning of the Tournament of Roses, there was always a desire to have a companion event to the parade, which originated back in the 1800s.

Pasadena's first-ever Rose Parade and Bowl Game—then called the ‘Tournament East-West Football Game’—had been a huge success from its inception in 1902.

Planners were constantly on the lookout for post-parade activities to keep people interested. The way the chariot races came about was that one of the Tournament’s presidents had read the book ‘Ben-Hur’ and so he got the idea from that,” says Tournament of Roses Executive Director, William B. Flinn.

Although football had been the original idea to accompany the parade (it would eventually become permanent), Flinn notes that many other ideas would be tried.

“They had ostrich races, a ‘Tournament of Rings’ game where men on horseback H

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THE HOOD

threw spears through giant hoops, there were ball games, relay races and a variety of other things.” Still, no matter which event took place, the Tournament of Roses was gaining recognition all over the country, which sparked a nation-wide influx of tourism to Pasadena.

“The parade itself was originally set up to give people the idea that California was a great place to come. It really was a real estate venture. The city’s founders knew that if people came, they would increase business, which would ultimately bolster the population,” says Flinn.

The plan worked and travelers began migrating West in droves.

“People came out from Eastern and Northern states that were known for having snow blizzards. At one point, Pasadena was actually called the ‘Indiana Colony’ because of all the transplants who’d come from there. The parade naturally became a New Year’s celebration because of the weather, which was unseasonably beautiful in January,” he says.

And today, while one of the highlights of the parade is the crowning of the Rose Queen, Flinn says it wasn’t always a tradition. “In the early days, some years we had a queen and other years we didn’t. It wouldn’t be until 1930 that they would begin the tradition of selecting an official queen.” The job of Grand Marshal, on the other hand, had been around from the very beginning. “In the 1930s, the parade would begin to gain a glamorous image, because of Hollywood,” says Flinn. Stars such as Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, Mary Pickford, Shirley Temple, Bob Hope, Walt Disney and other celebrities would serve as Grand Marshal; even presidents (Herbert Hoover and Gerald Ford) would ride in the parade.

“Those early stars would not only solidify the Tournament with the image of celebrity, they would set the stage for the future. We have been part of so many monumental ‘firsts’. People come and people go, but our event remains the grand

1977 Roy Rogers & Dale Evans

1943 Queen Mildred Miller

“ In the early days, some years we had a

queen and other years we didn’t. It wouldn’t be until 1930 that they would begin the tradition of selecting an official queen.”

1931 Queen Mary Lou Waddell & Court

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“at one point, pasadena was actually called the ‘Indiana Colony’ because of all the transplants who’d come from there.”

BY EARL ROBBINS

BY MARK BRECK

TOURNAMENT OF ROSES

Pasadena City Hall

Pasadena

All Saints Church Pasadena

daddy of them all. Even the idea of the ‘Bowl Game’—that very term—was coined right here in Pasadena all those years ago,” Flinn says.

A century ago, when Tournament President, Louis H. Turner said “We want to be sure to give newspaper folks coast-to-coast something to write about,” little did he know people would be doing so on a massive scale so many generations later. “When you think about the fact that all of this was created before electricity was prevalent, before the telephone was prevalent, when newspapers were really all we had, that’s’ pretty incredible.

When it all first began, there was no history; in fact, the founders of this great event were writing its history as they went along. If one thing didn’t work then they tried something else; something we are still very much doing today. We’re not afraid to change and evolve with the times.”

And though Flinn says much has changed since the Tournament first began, he says, “We are about legacy and stewardship. New generations continue the New Year’s tradition of this cultural icon the world has come to know as the Tournament of Roses.” ❖

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PERFECT PICKS

3 Magazine

Messenger Bag Shop consciously with the Magazine Messenger Bag from TORRAIN. They make practical and trendy products using recycled newsprint from Cambodia.

We were pleasantly surprised to see how roomy and incredibly durable this bag was! Each inspired design is completely unique, making this an excellent gift for your Valentine. TORRAIN.org, $46-$78, depending on style.

WHAT A GIRL WANTS

Valentine’s Day seems to be an easy gifting experience when it’s time to buy for men: A box of chocolate, nice wine, a box of exotic cigars, tickets to a concert, a day at the race track. But it seems to be the occasion that stumps every man when it comes to getting his girl that “little something.” We thought we’d offer a little help and suggest some of our best picks, guaranteed to help her feel the love. ✒ BY

NICOLE SCHMIDT

4 Perfect Summer Valise 1 Astor Studded

Buckle Bangle

Your Valentine is sure to fall in love with this Astor Studded Buckle Bangle by Michael Kors.

Its classic and unique design is a perfect compliment to any outfit.

Available in rose gold, yellow gold and silver.

Michael Kors, $99 each

2 The Bow Regard Satchel

Once again, Betsey Johnson has brought us what every girl wants in a bag. The Bow Regard Satchel is adorable, stylish and functional and is sure to make your favorite girl swoon.

BetseyJohnson.com, $118

This charming travel set is presented in a vintagestyle suitcase, loaded with quality products from L’Occitane. Lavender Perfumed Sachet, Verbena Shower Gel, Pivoine Flora Hand Cream, Bonne Mere Soap and Aromachologie Repairing Shampoo will surely make your sweetheart love the skin she’s in.

Perfect Summer Valise by L’Occitane, $29.75

5 Voluspa Candles

Voluspa candles are luxuriously aromatic and elegant. With many fragrances to choose from, these candles are long lasting and smell almost good enough to eat.

Voluspa.com, $18

6 Not Soap, Radio

Cute and amusing, this emollient body wash from Not Soap, Radio will definitely get your girl to smile.

Urban Outfitters, $16

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7 Courtly Check Heart Bowls

Your Valentine will think of you every time she uses her Courtly Check Heart Bowls by MacKenzie-Childs.

These perfectly crafted bowls can be used year round for décor, food presentation or accessory storage.

MacKenzie-Childs.com, $120-$160, depending on size.

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FAMILY FUN

Griffith Observatory WINTER WITH KIDS

PLAYTIME IN THE SOUTHLAND

There's a reason we live in Southern California. It’s the only place on earth where you can start the day surfing, play a round of golf, hit the ski slopes and be back at the beach for sunset. If you have kids, the best part of living here is that So Cal has non-stop, year round activities to entertain the young ones and create lasting family memories for years to come. This New Year make sure to plan fun activities with your kids that your whole family can enjoy!

Here are a few of our favorites to get you started … ✒ BY

MACKENZIE MILLER

Paddle boarding at Mother’s Beach in Marina Del Rey The quiet waters and lack of waves in the marina at Mother’s Beach is the perfect location to take your kids paddle boarding. The large boards make it easy for kids to float and manuever. And where else can you see dolphins, seals, and sea lions swimming next to you and sunbathing on the docks. End the experience with a romp through the kid’s playground and a snack at one of the restaurants or picnic tables lining the beach. Your children will thank you for this exhilarating experience.

4101 Admiralty Way Marina del Rey, CA 90292 Phone: (310) 578-0478

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Griffith Observatory Who doesn’t love looking up at the stars and the wonders of space and the vastness of this universe? Take your kids to look through some of the most famous telescopes in the world and introduce them to the stars – the real stars – not Hollywood stars.

The planetarium and star par-ties each Saturday offer a fun filled experience for all. All admission is FREE. www.griffithobs.org Griffith Observatory 2800 East Observatory Road Los Angeles, CA 90027 General Information Line: (213) 473-0800

Winter Sporting events The Clippers, Lakers, Kings, and Ducks are in season during the winter.

Take your kids to see the high-flying, dunking spectacle of the Los Angeles Clippers. If your kids don’t know who Blake Griffin is, he’ll become an instant favorite in your house! The Lakers and their amazing history in LA is something every child should experience. The LA Kings are the NHL National Champions so introduce your kids to greatness. The Anaheim Ducks provide fast filled fun and non-stop action any kid will love. www.nba.com/clippers www.nba.com/lakers www.kings.nhl.com www.ducks.nhl.com

Beach Clean with Heal the Bay and Surfrider Teach your kids to love the beach while introducing them to volunteering and that each of us matter and can make a difference.

Donate your time to Heal the Bay and Surfrider Foundation for a beach clean up at a beach near you today. www.healthebay.org www.surfrider.org

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USS Iowa Battleship: Celebrate the American Spirit in San Pedro and visit the only battleship museum on the west coast. Located at the L.A. Waterfront and the former home of the U.S Navy Battleship Fleet, families can learn US history and follow the journey of sailors on this exhilarating ship. www.pacificbattleship.com Pacific Battleship Center USS IOWA BB-61 250 South Harbor Boulevard Berth 87 Los Angeles, CA 90731 877-4-IOWA-61 (877-446-9261)

La Brea Tar Pits and the Page Museum Learn about fossils, extinct animals, dinosaurs, and more when you visit the La Brea Tar Pits and the Page Museum for a day. Experience the mysteries of animals that existed before becoming extinct and who roamed the ice age over 100,000 years ago. Your kids will love it! www.tarpits.org Page Museum 5801 Wilshire Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90036 (213) 763-3499 Whale Watching Gray Whales migrate from Alaska to Mexico and back every year. You can take a boat out of any harbor from San Diego up through Pismo to see them every winter. Last year from the Dana Point Warf, watchers witnessed: 1181 Gray Whales, 234 Humpback, 79 Fin Whales, 83 Minke Whales, 80+ False Killer Whales, 419 Blue Whales, 36 Pilot Whales, 100+ Sperm Whales, 1 Bryde's Whale, 5 Great White Sharks, 12 Mako Sharks, and 9 Hammerhead Sharks.

Dana Point Warf 34675 Golden Lantern Dana Point, CA 92629 (888) 224-0603 Channel Islands Whale Watching 4151 South Victoria Avenue Oxnard, CA 93035 (805) 382-2900

Calico Ghost Town Explore the Wild Wild West at Calico Ghost Town, an old West mining town that has been around since 1881 during the largest silver strike in California. Share in its rich history and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding desert environment. Along with its history and attractions, Calico Ghost Town has shops, restaurants and offers camping and outdoor recreation not available at most other park facilities. www.cms.sbcounty.gov/parks/Parks /CalicoGhostTown.aspx 36600 Ghost Town Road Yermo, CA 92398 800-86-CALICO

Aquarium of the Pacific: Fun for the whole family, the Aquarium of the Pacific offers experiences from the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most diverse body of water including nighttime activities with great food, live music, and cocktails for the adults. Only here can kids see moon jellyfish up close without getting stung, run back and forth with the playful seals, actually pet stingrays and sharks, and see real live penguins! www.aquariumofpacific.org Aquarium of the Pacific 100 Aquarium Way Long Beach, CA 90802 (562) 590-3100 LACMA Museum Teach your children about art and enjoy familyfriendly story telling adventures as well as live music Sundays and Friday. www.lacma.org 5905 Wilshire Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90036 Phone: (323) 857-6000

Big Bear and Snow Summit Mountains Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s snowing in So Cal! Teach your kids to ski, snowboard, make snowballs, ride ski lifts, slide down the bunny trails in tubes, and go snowmobiling on the snow filled mountains! www.bigbearmountainresorts.com /index_winter.php 880 Summit Blvd / P.O. Box 77 Big Bear Lake, CA 92315 General Info: (909) 866-5766 JAN.FEB2015 - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE

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TO-DO-LIST

Snow Play in So Cal ✒ BY

DEBBIE SULLIVAN

BLUE SKIES, TREES LADEN WITH SNOW AND CRISP FRESH AIR WILL BRING OUT THE KID IN YOU. Snowboard, ski, build snow people or barrel down the mountain on a sled with the sun on your back and laughter in your middle. There’s fun, romance, shopping, food and entertainment waiting just a short drive away. Plan your winter escape or just an afternoon of snow fun at one of these resorts right here in Southern California! e

The adventurous can also hike, zip line, go horseback riding, ice skating or mine for treasure.

1. BIG BEAR LAKE: Relax, rejuvenate and romp in the snow!

As the lift gently swings up the hill, you unwind, exhale and prepare for a downhill blast of fun. With two full service ski resorts, Bear Mountain and Snow Summit, there is something for everyone. At the bottom of the hill you enter a lodge with a crackling fire, soothing music, and hot chocolate or a rich glass of wine to enjoy. Awww – can you say “relaxation”?

Big Bear offers hotels, resorts, B&B’s, cabins and condos for your next getaway as well as quaint shops, delicious restaurants and a full service day spa to enjoy. The adventurous can also hike, zip line, go horseback riding, ice skating or mine for treasure.

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Lake Arrowhead offers 5-Star accommodations and delicious cuisine as well as hiking, fishing and more.

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2. LAKE ARROWHEAD: “The Alps of Southern California” You will fall in love with this cozy and beautiful resort town just down the mountain from Big Bear. Touted as the best kept secret on the West Coast, Lake Arrowhead offers 5-Star accommodations and delicious cuisine as well as hiking, fishing and more. Surrounded by pine, cedar and dogwood trees you will experience a newfound peace and a great break from the city.

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3. Frazier Mountain: Hiking, hang gliding and amazing views With nearby Frazier Park blanketed in snow, the majesty of Frazier Mountain is breathtaking. Just an hour’s drive north of Los Angeles, the mountain’s peak is 8,017 feet and holds diverse hiking options. With a wide road leading to the top, it’s a popular jump-off point for hang gliders and an easier climb for hikers to reach the summit.

The mountain’s peak is 8,017 feet and holds diverse hiking options.

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4. Idyllwild: “A Mile High Paradise” Sitting atop Mount San Jacinto and nestled in the pines is this quaint little village with old world charm. Renew your spirit as you stroll through an eclectic collection of shops and restaurants while listening to live jazz. Experience the small town feel with 15 galleries and music for every taste. There are 100 hiking trails for both the serious adventurer and casual nature lover alike. Be sure to visit Café Aroma – a perfect hangout for local artisans and socializing. A 3-hour drive from Los Angeles rewards you with a great place to renew your spirit.

5. Mountain High: Three resorts in one!

Looking for a place to ski, snowboard or tube that embraces every level of ability? Mountain High has a wide variety of lifts and trails with rental departments and restaurants at each resort and one ticket gets you entrance to all three! The West Resort has trails from beginner to black diamond and offers night skiing as well. The East Resort is the highest elevation and longest, steepest bump run. The North Resort caters to families and newer skiers with lower level terrain. And, of course, there are places to race those tubes to see just who IS the fastest in the family!

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There are 100 hiking trails for both the serious adventurer and casual nature lover alike.

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6. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Mount San Jacinto State Park A 360 degree aerial view as you ascend two and a half miles up a mountain of snow laden evergreen trees - excitement heightens as you reach the top.

You can build snow people, have a good old fashioned snow ball fight or strap on snowshoes and traverse the winter wonderland at the top of the Tram.

Wherever you choose to go for your snow play in So Cal – enjoy, unwind and explore! ❖

A 360 degree aerial view as you ascend two and a half miles up a mountain of snow laden evergreen trees.

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▲ The East Resort is the highest elevation and longest, steepest bump run.

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ON THE CALENDAR JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2015

e The OC Dana Point Harbor is transformed into a festive village to mingle and jingle, surrounded by thousands of breathtaking lights sculpted into sea creatures.

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Andy Warhol: Shadows

✒ BY

KELSEY HERRINGTON

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Dive-In Theatre at The Pearl Hotel

Wednesday evenings, weekly (San Diego) 1410 Rosecrans San Diego, CA 92106 (619) 226-6100 www.thepearlsd.com e The Pearl Hotel in Point Loma offers weekly cinema socials where the hotel’s poolside lounge is transformed into a “Dive-In Theatre” where you can come relax and enjoy a great film along with delicious food and drinks.

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Artisan Table Dinner

Thursdays, weekly (San Diego) A.R. Valentien The Lodge at Torrey Pines 11480 North Torrey Pines Road La Jolla, CA 92037 (858) 777-6635 www.lodgetorreypines.com/dining.php#pag e=page-5 e Executive Chef Jeff Jackson and Chef de Cuisine Kelli Crosson present their weekly Artisan Table Dinners family style in four courses at La Jolla’s A.R. Valentien in a unique farm-to-table dining experience.

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Bite San Diego

Recurring, every Saturday Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego 1205 J Street Suite J San Diego, CA 92101 (800) 979-3370 www.bitesandiego.com e Bite San Diego is a guided food walking tour through the Gaslamp Quarter. A foodie’s dream!

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Dana Point IlluminOcean

Now-January 4 (Orange County) 34415 Park Lantern Dana Point, CA 92629 (949) 923-2255 www.mydanapoint.com/dana-point-illuminocean 94

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Thursday evenings, now-February 2, 5-8 p.m.

MOCA, Downtown Los Angeles 250 South Grand Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90012 (213) 626-6222 sites.moca.org/thecurve/2014/07/31/moca-presents-andywarhol-shadows/ e Andy Warhol’s unique style is displayed in 102 hand-painted and silkscreened prints of photographs of shadows seen in The Factory, the artist’s studio.

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The Noir Effect

Now- March 1 Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90049 (310) 440-4500 www.skirball.org/exhibitions/the-noireffect e This exhibition examines the impact of the film noir genre elements on American culture.

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Whale and Dolphin Watching Adventure

Now-April 26 (San Diego) Hornblower Cruises and Events 970 N. Harbor Dr. San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 686-8715 www.hornblower.com/port/overview/sd+ whalewatching e Take advantage of whale watching season by enjoying a day at sea where you have the opportunity to spot whales and dolphins with professional narration from expert captains.

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Hollywood Costume Exhibit

January through February, every Thursday at 11:15 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Wilshire May Company Building, 6067 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90036 (310) 247-3049 www.oscars.org/hollywoodcostume e Learn what really goes into making the costumes for your favorite movies – see the costumes themselves and learn about how they were made in this amazing exhibit with more than 150 costumes from iconic films. Not just a show for clothes horses, kids will be fascinated to learn that Indiana Jones wears basically the same pants as California police officers, how Katniss got her leather jacket and see Dorothy’s actual gingham dress and the most famous shoes in the world.

Breathtaking to see, the story behind these clothes that made your favorite movies what they are is even more amazing.

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Hello! Exploring The Supercute World of Hello Kitty

January through February Every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Downtown, Japanese American National Museum, 100 North Central Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012 (213) 625-0414 www.janm.org/exhibits/hellokitty e The Japanese American National Museum and Sanrio present “Hello!

Exploring the Supercute World of Hello Kitty,” the world’s first large-scale Hello Kitty museum retrospective. Organized as part of the global icon’s 40th-anniversary celebrations, the exhibition examines the colorful history of Hello Kitty and her influence on popular culture.

Tickets are all based on timed entry, so be sure to order them in advance to get the times you want!

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Amazing Automobies: The Ultimate Car Exhibit

January through February, every Wednesday at 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ronald Reagan Library, 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, CA 93065 (805)577-4008 www.reaganfoundation.org e What do heads of state and Hollywood heavyweights have in common? A love of great cars. Over 21 spectacular cars will be displayed at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in this cool exhibit that’s a must for motor fans.

See cars like: • The Batmobile driven by Michael Keaton • The 1946 custom Ford used by John Travolta and Olivia Newton John in “Grease” • The 1966 Ford Thunderbird driven by Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon in “Thelma and Louise” • The 1956 XKSS owned by Steve McQueen • The 1971 DeTomaso Pantera owned by Elvis Presley (which still has the three bullet holes from when he shot the car)

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126th Rose Parade

January 1 (Pasadena) 391 South Orange Grove Blvd.

Pasadena, CA 91184 (626) 449-4100 www.tournamentofroses.com/ RoseParade.aspx e The annual Rose Parade features magnificent floral floats, spirited marching bands, dancers, and equestrian units sure to entertain and is the perfect way to spend New Years Day.

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Rose Bowl Post Parade Showcase January 1 (Pasadena) E Sierra Madre Blvd & E Washington Blvd.

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Pasadena, CA 91107 (626) 449-4100 www.tournamentofroses.com/RoseParade/t abid/106/ctl/Details/Mid/891/ItemID/11/D efault.aspx?SkinSrc=[L]Skins/TOR/main e If you just couldn’t get enough of the fantastic floral floats during the parade itself, you can attend the Rose Bowl Post Parade Showcase which allows visitors to further appreciate the beauty and workmanship of the floats.

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Palm Springs International Film Festival

January 2-12 Palm Springs 1700 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, CA 9226 (760) 322-2930 www.psfilmfest.org/index.aspx e The 26th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival begins January 2nd and continues through the 12th with fifteen screens throughout Palm Springs showcasing the submitted films. The festivals also features cultural events, filmmaker tributes, and on-stage interviews.

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Fridays with Frank and Friends

Fridays, starting January 9 San Pasqual Tasting Room and Gallery, Costa Mesa 8364 La Mesa Blvd.

La Mesa, CA 91942 (619) 462-1797 www.sanpasqualwinery.com e Relax and enjoy a glass of wine while listening to music from the Frank Sinatra era at the San Pasqual Tasting Room and gallery every Friday starting January 9th.

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Peking Acrobats

January 10 California Center for the Arts, Escondido 340 N. Escondido Blvd.

Escondido, CA 92025 (760) 839-4138 www.artcenter.org/event/peking-acrobats e The California Center for Arts, Escondido presents the Peking Acrobats on January 10th. These masters of agility and grace defy gravity with incredible gymnastic displays of contortion, flexibility, and control.

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LA Art Show

January 14-18 LA Convention Center South Hall J and K, 1201 South Figueroa Street Los Angeles, CA 90015 (561) 822-5440 www.laartshow.com e The “largest, longest-running, most comprehensive art experience on the West Coast” boasts a spectacular selection of galleries from all around the world.

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Shen Yun 2015

January 22nd – 25th Dolby Theatre in Hollywood 6801 Hollywood Blvd.

Los Angeles 90028 (323) 308-6300 January 29th through February 1st Segerstrom Center for the Arts 600 Town Center Drive Costa Mesa, 92626 (714) 556-2787 tickets.shenyun.com e Shen Yun takes you on an extraordinary journey to the lost land of the ancient Middle Kingdom. - Discover classical Chinese dance - one of the most rigorous and athletic, yet exquisitely beautiful art…

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Wine Winter Classic 2015

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Orchestra has made 31 recordings, toured Europe, South America and Japan, and performed across North America.

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Santa Barbara International Film Festival

January 27-February 7 Santa Barbara 1528 Chapala Street, Suite 203 Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 963-0023 www.sbiff.org e The world-renowned Santa Barbara International Film Festival spans 11 days and screens hundreds of films and is the perfect place for film lovers to walk the red carpet.

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La Jolla Music Society presents: Wendy Whelan “Restless Creature”

January 24 Santa Barbara 633 E Cabrillo Blvd.

Santa Barbara, CA 93103 (800) 936-3126 www.californiawinefestival.com e The Wine Winter Classic 2015 is the perfect place for wine lovers to taste and enjoy all of the best in one place, featuring famous names from the world of wine including Bernardus, Whitehall Lane, Pejy, and Chalk Hill.

January 30 Balboa Theatre, San Diego 7946 Ivanhoe Avenue La Jolla, CA 92037 (858) 459-3728 ljms.org/ai1ec_event/wendy-whelan-restless-creature-2/?instance_id= e The La Jolla Music Society is welcoming their 46th Season Dance Series with the wonderful collaboration of New York City Ballet’s Wendy Whelan and four male choreographers.

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La Bohème by Giacomo Puccini

Surf City USA Marathon and Half Marathon

January 24, 27, 29 & February 1 San Diego Civic Theater 1100 Third Avenue San Diego, CA (619) 533-7000 www.sdopera.com/Operas/Boheme e In honor of the 50th anniversary of the San Diego Civic Center, La bohème, the first opera they ever produced, is back and better than ever! Experience this spectacular show about love, friendship, and struggle for the first or fiftieth time.

Sunday, February 1st in Huntington Beach www.runsurfcity.com e This spectacular oceanfront course is an exclusive Southern California favorite.

Run by the famous Huntington Beach pier and continue throughout scenic Huntington Central Park. Observe native surfers in their natural habitat as you hit the beachfront running path at Bolsa Chica State Beach and get cheered on by local surf bands!

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Dancing With The Stars: Live!

Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra

Sunday, January 25th, 7:00 p.m.

Royce Hall UCLA 340 Royce Drive, CA 90025 (310) 825-2101 www.laco.org e Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra (LACO), proclaimed “America’s finest chamber orchestra” by Public Radio International and “resplendent” by the Los Angeles Times, has established itself among the world’s top musical ensembles.

Since 1997, LACO has performed under the baton of acclaimed conductor and pianist Jeffrey Kahane, hailed by critics as “visionary” and “a conductor of uncommon intellect, insight and musical integrity” with “undeniable charisma,” “effortless musicality and extraordinary communicative gifts.” During its 46-year history, the

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February 9: San Diego @ Balboa Theater February 14: Thousand Oaks @ Fred Kavli Theatre for the Performing Arts February 15: Los Angeles @ Nokia Theatre LA Live www.abc.go.com/shows/dancing-with-thestars/news/updates/11032014-get-ticketsfor-the-dancing-with-the-stars-live-tour e Starting this December, ABC’s leading entertainment show is going on tour throughout North America. Dancing with the Stars: Live! features a cast of some of the show’s most celebrated dancers.

Dancers will choreograph brand new numbers sure to treat audiences to exciting and romantic performances.

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JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2015

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17th Annual Grammy Foundation Legacy Concert

February 5 Los Angeles Wilshire Ebell Theatre 4401 West 8th Street Los Angeles, CA 90005 (323) 908-0607 e Celebrate the visionaries behind the creation of iconic songs and concerts as well as music’s role in advancing philanthropic causes with musical performances from an extraordinary range of artists including Bryan Adams, Melissa Etheridge, Cyndi Lauper, Willie Nelson, Robin Thicke, and Aloe Blacc.

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Laguna Beach Music Festival

February 12-15 Laguna Beach, CA 92652 (949) 715-9713 www.lagunabeachmusicfestival.com e The Laguna Beach Music Festival is a celebration of outstanding classical and contemporary music in the Laguna Beach community and surrounding areas. The Festival is dedicated to building community enrichment in creating engaging opportunities to learn more about and appreciate the world of music.

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Palm Springs Fine Art Fair

February 12-15 (Palm Springs) 277 N. Avenida Caballeros Palm Springs, CA 92262 (631) 283-5505 www.palmspringsfineartfair.com e The Annual Palm Springs Fine Art Fair features well-known galleries from all around the world, showcasing post-war and contemporary art.

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Tet Festival

February 20-22 (Costa Mesa) 88 Fair Drive Costa Mesa, CA 92626 1 (844) TET-FEST www.tetfestival.org e Come celebrate the lunar year at the largest Tet Fesitval in the entire world at the OC Fair & Event Center. Visitors are immersed in all things Vietnamese including traditional foods, live entertainment, and customs celebrating the New Year.

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Wicked at the Hollywood Pantages

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December 10-March 15 Hollywood Pantages 6233 Hollywood Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90028 (323) 468-1770 www.hollywoodpantages.com/showinfo.php?id=35 e Back by “Popular” demand, this timeless classic that has won over 50 major awards is a must see.

See it while you can!