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It’s that time of year when the saying ‘my how time flies’ is on the tip of our tongues, as we plan for holiday festivities and the coming of the New Year. From children’s books to chicken dinner recipes, heart health to seasonal travel and celebrations, family is at the heart of this issue, along with a plethora of stories and interviews covering new music and books, history and the arts, food and drink, global and local destinations, business and career. Viva Variety! Join us for Big Blend Radio, with shows airing live online on Friday & Sunday, Monday & Wednesday. The schedule is on . Be sure to subscribe to our weekly to receive your digital copies of and , as well as new articles, recipes, event news, radio interviews and videos. You can also keep up and with all things Big Blend on , and .
Big Blend’s mother-daughter publishing, radio and travel team!
Big Blend is a company based on the belief that education is the most formidable weapon that can be waged against fear, ignorance and prejudice. It is our belief that education starts at home and branches outward. Education leads to travel, and travel leads to understanding, acceptance, and appreciation of cultures and customs different to our own, and ultimately to world peace. Our company is further based on the principle that networking, communication, and helping others to promote and market themselves leads to financial stability; thus paving the way to better education, travel, and the spirit of giving back to the community.
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The Brutalists are a new rock and roll group featuring founding L.A. GUNS member Mick Cripps and LONDON QUIREBOYS founder Nigel Mogg (nephew of UFO singer Phil Mogg). The group is rounded out by guitarist/vocalist Kent Holmes, bassist Robert Cripps and vocalist/drummer Charlie Nice. Their music is a mix of their influences – the dirty, leering blues of pub rock and R&B, the urgency of street punk and the synthesized dance ennui of post-punk, seasoned with bits of ska and reggae. They perform regularly in downtown Los Angeles and throughout California. The Brutalists signed to Cleopatra Records in November 2017 and have their self-titled debut album out now on both CD and all streaming platforms, and in a special limited edition vinyl pressing with a silkscreened jacket! More at
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Kwame Binea was born in West London with native origins in Ghana. He is a self-proclaimed rocker to the core, but he has peppered his own brand of “Roots Rock” which embodies his fertile and culturally diverse personal saga. “Happy Lips” was written out in LA with legendary songwriter/musician Gregg Sutton (Bob Dylan, Joe Cocker etc.) and co-produced by Grammy award winning guitarist/founder (Living Colour) Vernon Reid. Kwame Binea Shakedown released their debut LP (Roots Rock N Universal Love) in the summer of 2017. The Album includes a stellar collaboration with Vernon Reid, the title song “Universal Love” produced by Reid and written by Rock N Roll Hall Of Fame inductee Jimmy Cliff. More at
Cornell has shared the stage as an opening act for James Brown and Ray Charles, and has also opened for The Whispers, The Temptations, Natalie Cole, and Kool and The Gang. As part of Narada Michael Walden’s all-star band, he has shared the stage with Neil Schon (Journey), Dionne Warwick, and Ronnie Spector. He has also performed with Carlos Santana, providing vocals on two tracks for 'Santana IV' and on Santana’s latest album with the legendary Ron Isley. His new album “One Love” has a variety of outstanding producers on its roster such as Morgan Howell (Soulpersona, UK), Brian Braziel, David Council, and Kirk Crumpler. Cornell says, “ONE LOVE is a message of Oneness with the planet and each other and allowing Love and Music to be our guide to a better world!” More at
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Jann was raised in Kenya, South Africa, Germany, and the United States and now resides in New York City. His music has been streamed over 1,000,000 times online and his song “Make It Better” is featured on the Billboard Top 10 charting compilation album “Action Moves People United.” He has released six albums and two EPs, and tours regularly in the U.S., Europe, Africa and Asia. Jann spent time in SA last year recording “In Tandem” in partnership with the Academy of Sound Engineering. Conceived, written and recorded in Brussels, Belgium where Emiliano has lived since 2015, “Monty” was mixed in Valencia, Spain by Matteo Nahum, music composer, and film scorer. Finally, it was mastered in Brooklyn, NY by internationally acclaimed drummer, bass player and sound engineer Nate Wood.
The album features a selection of SA’s finest with RJ Benjamin as producer, songwriting contributions from James Stewart (The Usual), Ziyon (Liquideep), Karen Zoid (who also features on the song she co-wrote), and a collaborative feature from Tamara Dey. “In Tandem” also features a duet between Jann and legendary Renaissance vocalist Annie Haslam on a cover version of Peter Gabriel’s “Don’t Give Up.” More at
All songs are written by Emiliano with Italian lyrics. Emiliano plays all instruments heard on the tracks (piano and keys, fretless bass, drums, classical, acoustic and electric guitars, violins, pocket sax, voices and programming). As for the album’s concept, Emiliano explains, “The album describes a slow descent into hell, followed by a slow resurgence in search of a balance between the diverting forces, attitudes and wills of a man. It is evidently an autobiographic representation of the common states of mind of mankind.” More at
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As a recording and touring artist, songwriter, and classical violinist, Kimia Penton uses her music to explore the common themes we share on life’s journey. Her music is a tapestry of her adventures and travels that covers wide swaths of Jazz, Pop, and Folk, as well as stitches of Classical, R&B, Blues, and Middle Eastern influences. “Where the Rain Falls” EP is a soulful and sophisticated celebration of selfcompassion, authenticity, emotional healing, and fearless femininity.
Kimia’s poignant and relatable lyrics and heartfelt vocals are inspired by her broad cultural background and reveal resonant themes of bravery, vulnerability, and self-reflection. “I like to emphasize the things we have in common and can all relate too,” she says. “I want to build bridges, not fences.” Kimia produced the album alongside guitarist, co-producer, and co-writer Kelyn Crapp. More at
The Walk-A-Bout Band features Kevin Anderson (Acoustic Guitars), Darren "Sully" Sullivan (Lead Vocals, Harp & Digeridoo), Andrew "Drumz" Bertrand (Drums & Producer), Keenan Zach (Bass), and Dave Christian (Electric Guitar, Backing Vocals). After Kevin had composed a growing catalog of guitar vignettes over several years, fate brought him together with Sully who was the perfect songwriting partner to translate Kevin’s vision into the lyrical domain.
At that time, as part of a crew on a ship, Sully penned his lyrics for the material while sailing around the world. He applied his very special brand of wordsmithing, creating imagery for Kevin’s original titles that spanned a wide range of subjects from heartbreak, to soul-searching, adventure, to introspection, to even the simple concept of enjoying being alive, permeating each musical piece with a special energy. “Things are Looking Up” is their second album. More at
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Chicago, at its very core, is a city of sound. While the storied hub of hard work is well known for its hunger and heart, the town’s history is surely shaped as much by its music as its muscle. Matt Brown recently set out to tell that story, a project that would become Brown recruited some of Chicago’s most skilled players: guitarist and vocalist Steve Dawson; pedal steel player Brian Wilkie; bassist Aaron Smith; drummer Gerald Dowd; singers Keely Vazquez, Gia Margaret, Elise Bergman, and Liz Chidester; and horn players Anna & Evan Jacobson.
With his own fiddle and GRAMMY-nominated coproducer Liam Davis singing and playing keys, the group headed to I.V. Lab Studios. released via Allograph Records, the ten song album features songs like Wilco’s “It's Just That Simple”, “Heavy Traffic Ahead” by Bill Monroe, Sam Cooke’s “I’ll Come Running Back to You”, “Long Tall Mama” by iconic Chicago blues artist Big Bill Broonzy , and “How Lonely Can You Be?” by alternative country artist Robbie Fulks. More at
Originally making his mark as a member of Nashville rock band The Bandoliers, today EG Vines defines himself as a solo artist with the release of his critically acclaimed debut album “Conversation.” Earlier this year, Vines teamed up with producer Eddie Spear (The Delta Saints, Dave Cobb) and noted studio musicians Leroy Powell, Chris Powell, and Brian Allen to create the five song masterpiece. The EP was written as a statement about empathy, compassion, and a greater understanding between people. According to EG Vines, the lack of empathetic communication is at the root of a lot of our problems. “All this division, and the words that we use/the lines for no reason between me and you/well I won’t believe that this is the best we can do”, sings Vines on his record. From the funky “Tell Me Something Brother”, to the slow burning “Reconcile”, Vines is on a mission for more understanding. More at
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Nicki delivers a unique blend of dynamic songwriting and powerhouse vocal chops creating crossover appeal in multiple areas. She has explored various musical styles over the past few years which has awarded her multiple Official Grammy Ballot placements in several categories for songwriting and performance, as well as several film/TV placements, and multiple songwriting awards. “Heartbeat” is the follow-up to last summer’s smash hit “Captain America” and focuses on the continuous 24-hour-a-day turmoil surrounding the current US political landscape, including the issues of harassment and sexual misconduct. “Rise” was written to inspire women to stand together and rise up against injustice and inequalities. More at
With a beautiful, rounded voice and a magnetic stage presence, Noa Levy is a unique and charismatic female vocalist and performer who sings across genres – Jazz, Rock, Cabaret, Musicals, and Pop. Her debut EP, “Take Two” is a thoughtful collection of Jazz arrangements featuring Noa in a duo format with three different instrumentalists. Drawing on influences from her favorite musicians and artists including Peter Gabriel, Brad Mehldau, and Carmen McRae, Noa has developed her own signature arrangements of classic and unique tunes to paint a picture that anyone listening can relate to. Her favorite thing about jazz is the possibility to collaborate with fellow musicians about universal themes and day to day life, and her arrangements on the “Take Two” EP are the fruit of some of these collaborations. More at
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Originally from California, Milham is also of Hawaiian descent with family ties to the islands. She is a gifted professional musician who has been performing since the age of 18, and also has an MFA degree in book arts from the University of Alabama. Milham combined these two areas in an unusual project combining research, printing, bookbinding and recordings of the compositions of Hawai’i’s beloved last Queen. Her record and letterpress printed project, is a careful selection of some of the 200 compositions that Lili'uokalani and some composed while under house arrest and smuggled out.
Coming from a strong line of creative women, it makes sense that she would eventually find her way back home to this culture and its revitalizing energy. Milham says much of her recent work “is centered on Hawaiian history, culture, and the sustained social and environmental movements happening there. And both my mother and my grandmother were fierce advocates for Hawaiian rights and lifelong creatives. My grandmother, Dallas Keali‘iho‘onei‘a ina Mossman, was a theater director and musician and my mother, Mary Alice Kai’ulani Milham was a writer.” Milham’s own work is held in multiple public collections including Yale University Arts Library and The Library of Congress and is represented by Vamp & Tramp Booksellers and Booklyn in NYC. More at ,
Says Milham, “she was an accomplished musician, poet, and all around incredible and beloved leader. The Arts were really integrated into daily life in Hawai’i, and they had figured out these really sophisticated ways to take care of their needs, so they also had time for art and music. And the Queen used her music as her form of protest during the time of imprisonment as well as a source of comfort for her and her people during all that turmoil.” PAGE 12
“I am a relatively new member of the Ithaca community, having relocated in the fall of 2014 from my home in the San Francisco Bay area. I love it here-the seasons, the changes of light; the mix of culture and beautiful rural environments. The move here has inspired me to paint-to put down on canvas what I have explored in other artistic pursuits: landscapes, nudes, abstracts, seascapes, playing with impressionism, pointillism, realism, naturalism, etc.
My musical compositions and orchestrations feed into the interplay of light, shape, color and rhythm on canvas-what ‘plays’ in the foreground; what ‘plays’ in the background; my work in the theater as an actor helps me to stay aware of other elements: intensity, drama, story, surprise, resolution. My work as a director of plays helps me to remember line, form, texture, timbre, and the focus of the overall composition.” More at PAGE 14
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DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a 10-acre historic landmark nestled in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains in Tucson, Arizona. Opened in 1965, it is home to over 15,000 originals of Ted DeGrazia art pieces including oil paintings, watercolors, ceramics and sculptures. There are six permanent collections on display and several rotating exhibitions each year such as the 2 two current exhibits, ‘DeGrazia’s Desert Dwellings’ and ‘DeGrazia’s Chickens.’ Every year, from the first week of November to the first week of April, the Little Gallery opens up to the public with a series of visiting artists showing their work. Hear all about it on this episode of Big Blend Radio with Executive Director Lance Laber, and silversmith / jewelry designer Scott Owen who will be showing his work in the Little Gallery from Feb. 10-Feb. 27, 2019.
Nov. 4-16: John Vermette, Photos on Metal Nov. 18-30: Robin Chlad, Ceramics Dec. 2-14: Joyce & Jennie Norris, Mixed Media Dec. 16-28: Ursela Gurau, Mixed Media Dec. 30- Jan. 11: Chris Andrews, Acrylic on Canvas Jan. 12-25: Pamela Ambrosio, Metal Art Jan. 27- Feb. 8: Ken Crook, Mixed Media Feb. 10-27: Scott Owen, Jewelry Feb. 24- Mar. 8: Charlie Burton with Group, Mixed Media Mar. 10-22: Geri Neidermiller, Color Pencil Mar. 24- Apr. 5: Julie Rose & Mary Ann Rolfe, Mixed Media
This annual festival honors Mexico's patron saint with music, dancing and performances including mariachi bands, folklorico dancers, the Yaqui Deer Dancers and Domingo DeGrazia's Spanishguitar band. The festival also features a Los Posada procession where children from the Carrillo Magnet School sing in honor of the saint culminating at the Mission in the Sun. Local food and art vendors offer southwestern fare and souvenirs to guests. More at PAGE 16
SURREALISM: AN ART MOVEMENT OF THE EARLY 20TH CENTURY “Why does the eye see a thing more clearly in dreams than the imagination when awake?” This quote by Leonardo Da Vinci shows he recognized the power of dreams back in the late 15th century. But it was not until 1924 that dreams became the centerpiece of an art movement whose written goals were compiled in the . Andre Breton, author of the , had been associated with the Dada Movement (about 1915 – 1925 ) but became disillusioned with that group, feeling it did not address expressing the creative unconscious, what art historian Marilyn Stokstad clarified as a higher form of reality, the Sur-reality. Surrealism was a European movement propelled, at first, by literature but played out in visual art, theater, and film, as well as literary works. It was the outgrowth of many influences including the writings of Freud, the shock effect of nihilist Dada artists, early 20th century philosophy, and the political effects of Communism and Anarchism. Automatism was a technique used by all three arts as a form of free association of ideas, words, and images. Planning was rejected. Ironically, the basic rules of design and composition were still followed, if subconsciously. Dreams and fantasies were revered as source material, sometimes breaking out as images of bondage or aggression. Mostly, the visual images were compositions of unrelated objects or isolated places painted in a hard-edge, precise style. The sharp clarity of dream images combined with often absurd juxtaposition of the images, was viewed by the Surrealists as liberation of mind and, with it, greater creativity. PAGE 18
They were influenced by the French poet, Pierre Reverdy, who wrote in 1918, “The more the relationship between the juxtaposed realities is distant and true, the stronger the image will be – the greater its emotional power and poetic reality.” In regard to the idea of liberation in the early 20th century, Surrealists were attracted by anarchy, wanting to change reality, and conventional social attitudes and restrictions of their time. Their work was less intentionally designed to offend the viewer than the art produced by their Dada predecessors. In fact, much of Surrealist art was seen by the public as amusing. If the content was hard to understand, at least there was an appreciation of the skill required to render images so meticulously. The precision of surrealist painters was in keeping with the idea of dream clarity. Georgio de Chirico, Francis Picabia, Joan Miro, Max Ernst, and Yve Tanguy were early painters working in the context of Surrealism. A few of these painted organic shapes, but most painted images of realistic or exaggerated natural objects. Salvador Dali, probably the best known Surrealist, was not well accepted by his Surrealist contemporaries. They resented his capitalist tendencies as evidenced by his successful self–promotion, and resulting sales. Paul Delvaux was a mid-century Surrealist using art history references as part of his dreamlike settings. Surrealism has continued as a way of seeing in contemporary times with fewer political overtones. It has influenced the development of fantasy art.
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Guitarist Peter R. Grant talks with Big Blend Radio about his book “The Noise it Makes.” As he says, “It is a book about what music can mean to people, what it means to me. To illustrate my idea that in many ways it can mean almost everything, I have used illustrations from my life. From my earliest memories of an apartment full of music to teenage skirmishes with the rock and roll lifestyle." Pete Grant was born in England in the late 50's. He pursued a career as a guitarist, but the career always seemed to get away somehow. He wouldn't swap a minute of it though. In the 90's, he found a home for a while in the music business, running web sites for Peter Green and Cream lyricist Pete Brown as well as sax great Dick Heckstall-Smith whom he also managed from 2000 to 2004. In 2004, Dick and Pete co-authored "Blowing The Blues - Fifty Years of Playing the British Blues" published by The Clear Press (Bath, England). That year Pete left England to live in California's Central Valley, and has fallen into music once more, happily playing with an array of bottom feeding bands. “The Noise it Makes” is available on Amazon. More on
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Award-winning San Francisco folk singersongwriter Lisa Sniderman "Aoede" talks with Big Blend Radio about her memoir "A Light in the Darkness: Transcending Chronic Illness through the Power of Art and Attitude," that spans 10 years of what it was like living with chronic illness, and is an inspiring message for those living with chronic illness, disability, and unexpected life challenges. In 2008, singer-songwriter Lisa Sniderman was living the dream in California. As Aoede, the Muse of Song, her star as a gifted recording artist was rising fast. Lisa’s quirky folk-pop performance style electrified audiences up and down the West Coast, and the albums just kept flowing. But just when her career was rocketing skyward, a health crisis brought all of her dreams crashing to the ground. Diagnosed with a rare, debilitating immune disorder called dermatomyositis (DM), Lisa struggled to maintain a normal life with a body in revolt and, eventually, to accept a new normal. Living with a chronic illness challenged Lisa to see DM as a gift in disguise that has opened the door to new dreams, new songs, and new opportunities. Lisa’s story is for you if you seek strength, new inspiration, hope, joy, healing, and if you or someone you love struggle with a chronic illness, disability, or unexpected life events. Her insights and reflections on her journey inspire hope and the courage to keep dreaming and living to the fullest no matter what life hurls at you. More at
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Military historian and award-winning author Mike Guardia talks with Big Blend Radio about his recent book “Crusader: General Donn Starry and the Army of His Times,” the biography of US Army general Donn Starry, creator of the AirLand Battle doctrine that led to victory in Operation Desert Storm. Donn Starry, one of the most influential commanders of the Vietnam War, went on to become one of the “intellectual giants” who reshaped the US Army and, throughout his career, worked to improve training, leadership, and conditions for the men who served under him. Starry was a leading advocate for tank warfare in Vietnam. His recommendations helped shape the American armor position in Southeast Asia and paved the way for his success as commander of the 11th Armored Cavalry during the invasion of Cambodia. As commander of Fort Knox and the US Army Armor School in the 1970s, Starry brought new advances to armor tactics, training, and strategy. Most notably, he created the new “AirLand Battle” doctrine, which paved the way for a decisive US victory in the Gulf War. Like most Vietnam-era commanders, Starry’s legacy has been overshadowed by the controversy surrounding the war itself—but few have had as much of an impact on modern maneuver warfare.
In this new biography of Gen. Donn Starry, armor officer Mike Guardia examines the life and work of this pioneering officer using extracts from interviews with veterans and family, as well as from Starry’s personal papers. . More at
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Award-winning mystery author Roger Johns talks with Big Blend Radio about his second Wallace Hartman Mystery, “River of Secrets,” the follow up of “Dark River Rising.” Herbert Marioneaux, a Louisiana politician infamous for changing his mind on hot-button issues, has been murdered and his body posed to send a message. Baton Rouge homicide detective Wallace Hartman has to figure out who’s sending that message. DNA points to Eddie Pitkin, a social justice activist who also happens to be the half-brother of Wallace’s childhood best friend. But even with the combative history between Pitkin and Marioneaux, murder seems out of character for Pitkin whose usual MO is to confront the wealthy and powerful with their inconvenient past. As Wallace digs deeper, she unearths a possible alibi witness, along with evidence of a deeply troubled relationship that points the finger of suspicion at Marioneaux’s son. While Eddie’s supporters are convinced of his innocence, his enemies are equally certain of his guilt. Under pressure from all directions, Wallace pursues her investigation into the dark heart of the political establishment as Baton Rouge falls under the shadow of escalating violence. When it appears a police department insider may be sabotaging her efforts by leaking information about the case, and after menacing messages are left for her and her loved ones, Wallace is forced to untangle a trail of old and disturbing secrets unaided by those she most needs to trust. Roger Johns fills his second Wallace Hartman mystery with details that will make you race to the end -- intriguing questions, disappearing suspects, an exploration of racial and political tensions, a rich Southern setting, and a strong woman who will do whatever it takes to solve this case. More at . PAGE 23
You might think they are sleepy bedside communities outside of Oakland and San Francisco, but the Tri-Valley offers a lot more. Composed of three valleys, Amador Valley, Livermore Valley and San Ramon Valley that merge below Mt Diablo. The area includes the cities of Pleasanton, Livermore, Dublin, San Ramon, and Danville. Each one features a charming town center with its own unique character and a plethora of bars and restaurants. The area is united together by one of California’s older wine regions, and its history goes back to the 1800s.
If a winery produces Chardonnay, there is a good chance their grape vines are a Wente Clone; the same is true of Cabernet as the mother vine to Livermore was named for Robert Livermore who Cabernet Sauvignon Clones 7, 8 and 11 came settled in the area in the 1840s. Besides the wine from Concannon. During Prohibition Wente and Concannon stayed afloat making sacramental industry, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory resides within its boundaries. Later in wine. After Prohibition, many wineries across California came to Wente and Concannon for the 1850s, Pleasanton was established. Dublin cuttings. got its name from the Irish immigrants that settled in the area. The cities of San Ramon and Danville are relatively newer communities. Wente and Concannon were not the first wineries in Livermore. Charles Wetmore, the Two Livermore wineries played an important Secretary of the CA Viticultural Commission, role in California's Wine history, Wente and established the first winery in Livermore, Cresta Concannon. Both established roots in Livermore Blanca Vineyards. In 1889, Wetmore’s dry white in the late 1800s. In addition, they represent the wine brought attention to California as a winefoundation and the backbone of two varietals. producing region when it won the Grand Prix at Cabernet Sauvignon for Concannon and the International Paris Exposition. Chardonnay for Wente. PAGE 24
Livermore wineries had many more achievements that make them a standout in California. Concannon was the first to create Petite Sirah as a single varietal. Unique to the area is its east-west orientation. Afternoon and evening breezes from the San Francisco Bay create diurnal temperature swings, ideally suited for growing grapes. The soils are typically gravel based.
When three friends all with the name Steve decided to make wine, the result is the 3 Steves Winery. Their mission, “3 Friends Striving To Make The Perfect Wine” and they certainly come pretty close with lots of humor added.
Established in 1982, the Livermore Valley AVA now features over 50 wineries. Many play a significant role in today’s wine industry. One, in particular, is Steven Kent Winery. Steve Mirassou comes from a long-standing family in the industry. They established themselves in the Santa Clara Valley in the 1800s. Today Steve owns one of the most prestigious vineyards in the valley, the Ghielmetti Estate Vineyard. The vineyard is known for its Bordeaux varietals especially Cabernet Sauvignon. The Lineage label showcases many of the fine wines produced from this vineyard and exemplifies Steve’s mission of creating Cabernet that rivals some of the best throughout the world. PAGE 25
Nottingham Cellars represents one of the wineries that take up space in an industrial complex. Like its more contemporary venue, Winemaker Collin Cranor brings a younger and fresh look to the winemaking process. Specializing in Bordeaux varietals including a dynamite stand-alone Petit Verdot. For Collin, he makes left bank wines that “flirt the line.” Not only does Darcie Kent Winery offer spectacular views, but her wine labels feature Darcie’s beautiful artwork. The tasting room showcases her wine and also acts as a gallery for Darcie’s artwork. Colorful is a dominating motif in both the wines and the art. Dante Roberre Vineyards specializes in reds. Like many winemakers Dan and Rob, two friends, started in their backyard. One thing led to another, and they opened their winery in 2015. Wood Family Vineyards started after Rhonda Wood, a pilot with US Airways, began making beer during her pregnancy leave in 1991. She started by planting vines in her backyard and then purchased a vineyard in 1995, soon after she and her husband discovered the Livermore Valley. Today, as a self-taught winemaker, Wood primarily specializes in bold reds.
Las Positas Vineyards specializes in varietals that include Spanish, French and Italian. In many cases, they create some outstanding, unique blends, that may be unfamiliar to most wine enthusiasts. These blends make the winery stand out from others.
Besides winery hopping around Livermore, there is a lot more to do. The towns of Livermore, Pleasanton, and Danville have charming town centers making it fun to stroll the streets, pop in and out of stores and galleries or sit down for a bite to eat. One must make the time to visit the Black Hawk Museum in Danville. With revolving auto exhibits, car buffs will certainly enjoy a visit. The museum also houses other exhibits including the Spirit of the Old West, Art of Africa and Into China.
Visiting the Tri-Valley over the years for dog shows I have stayed at many pet-friendly hotels including the Hilton, Marriott and more. Recently I discovered The Rose Hotel in Pleasanton. The owner, NFL Coach John Madden established this upscale hotel in 2001. If one is looking for luxury, The Rose Hotel is the place to stay with its host of amenities and attention to detail.
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My most recent visit, I stayed at the Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham, an extended stay hotel. The rooms are nice and spacious as well as comfortable. The location is ideal for getting to any city or winery in the Tri-Valley.
A trip to the area must include a visit to the Restaurant at Wente. It is considered the best in the area. Another enjoyable restaurant is the Zephyr Grill and Bar. For Tapas there is Sabio on Main in Pleasanton. For breakfast, brunch or lunch try Danville Harvest featuring farm to table cuisine. Finally, the Tri-Valley is close enough to San Francisco that you can ride the Bart from Dublin and enjoy a day in the city without worrying about parking the car, paying the higher hotel prices or garaging fees.
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There’s no denying the abundance of glorious food in Southern California. It’s become a melting pot for some of the best chefs on the West Coast. It’s no surprise that Newport Beach, one of the most affluent cities in California, is home to The Pacific Wine and Food Classic. After an impressive inaugural weekend last year, The Classic returned to the Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort this past summer to once again allow locals and visitors alike to experience some of the best chefs, winemakers and Upon arrival to the Pacific Wine and Food Classic, mixologists in Orange County. fun photo props and friendly faces greeted you and encouraged guests to strike some poses on For the price of admission, guests are invited to taste, sip and savor dishes and drinks from some the red carpet. Once inside the event, guests could grab their plates, wine glasses and start of OC’s favorite restaurants and most beloved having some fun on the sand! One of the first Chefs. Portions were generous, and attendees certainly enjoyed some seconds (or thirds) from libations offered was a Lillet cocktail that hit the spot on the warm, sunny day. each booth. Proceeds from the weekend are donated to charity each year. For 2018, the If you love seafood, you were in luck as some of recipient was Golden Rule Charity, a nonprofit the best seafood chefs in Orange County were on based in Southern California inspired by the hand serving up signature dishes. It was such a hard-working restaurant employees who may pleasure to chat with Chef Pascal, San Juan find themselves in need of an emergency crisis Capistrano’s legendary chef who, after grant such as medical, food, shelter and retirement, just couldn’t stay away from the transportation. restaurant business.
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His lunch bistro, Pascal, is a favorite among the locals and was serving up a delicious clam bake in partnership with Baja Shellfish Farms.
Speaking of the VIP section, it was here that we got to meet Chef Linda Johnson from Filomena’s Kitchen in Costa Mesa, California.
Chef Linda grew up in the suburbs of South Philadelphia. When the women in her family wanted authentic Italian products, they would go to the Italian Market in Philly. The Italian Market is not just one market, but many different open air markets offering fresh produce, herbs and spices, pastas, cheese, meats and hard to find Italian wares. The sights and smells of the Italian Market are something you never forget. Chef And, how can you attend a foodie weekend in Linda remembers the fires burning in the large Orange County and not have tacos? Lucky for us, metal drums that line the streets during the there were various opportunities to sample some winter months to keep customers warm as they of the best in SoCal. Orange County chain, Taco searched for the perfect products to create Mesa, was on hand to show Pacific guests that authentic Italian meals. The Italian Market is still just because a diner is fast-casual, it doesn’t have thriving today and is where most of the city’s top to taste like fast food. Established in 1991, Taco restaurant chefs go early in the morning to Mesa has been offering contemporary cuisine select only the freshest products. honoring our ancestors, our bodies and the earth. Their new menu features GMO-free corn infused with herbs and spices from in-house Tortilleria Organica. Newport Beach’s popular garden center, Roger’s Gardens, is also no stranger to fantastic seafood as their adjoining restaurant, Farmhouse, serves up farm-to-table plates led by Chef Rich Mead. Chef Mead’s salmon dish was a highlight. From presentation to taste, it was easy to understand how Chef Mead has enjoyed 35 years in the culinary industry.
While over at Bueno Bueno, they like to call their dining experience “Upscale fast-casual”. Another OC favorite, we were treated to their fish and vegetarian tacos that paired greatly with our Hornitos margaritas from the VIP section.
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Chef Linda spent every Sunday with her Grandmother Filomena and Aunt Rosemary making a pot of Sunday Sauce and learning the secrets to making pasta. This is where the tradition and techniques of Italian cooking were passed down, and what she now shares with her guests. She learned early on that food brings family together and continues to invite guests into her restaurant today to share her passion for food, with her guests finding that as they leave, they are now part of the family. The traditions, flavors and techniques which Chef Linda continues to carry on today are that of her heritage and her grandmother… ”Filomena.”
Learn more about Pacific Wine and Food Classic here:
Family is an important matter to both of our radio guests from the Pacific Wine and Food Classic. For We Believe wines, they’re all about faith, family and freedom. From their website, “When the odds are against us, and all signs say turn the other way. When you are down by a little, but need much more than a lot. When all seems lost, but you still have faith. That is when we band together and unite. That is when we stare adversity in the face and say together — we believe when you have faith, family, freedom, your friends, and a great wine, you are truly blessed.”
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Mary Farah is a Los Angeles-based blogger at Along Comes Mary in addition to contributing to various online magazines. She’s on the Board of Directors with The International Food, Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). Visit her at .
Jeremy’s on the Hill CALIFORNIA STYLE BISTRO
Located at the ‘Gateway to Julian’, San Diego’s Four-Season Mountain & Back-Country Destination! Fresh, Seasonal & Outstanding Farm-to-Table Cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Jeremy Manley Seasonal Menu & Favorites Steak, Seafood, Burgers, Salads, Sandwiches Desserts & After Dinner Beverages Vegetarian, Vegan & Gluten-Free Options Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner Indoor, Fireside & Patio Dining Live Music on Weekends Wine & Beer Pairing Dinners Private Banquet Rooms Catering & Group Events for all Occasions
Wine Bar featuring Local & Regional Wines & Champagne Micro-Brews & Specialty Beers
www.JeremysOnTheHill.com
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By Chef Ivan Flowers Serves 4 1 Chicken, cut into legs, thighs, etc. 5 Dried Guajillo Chilies 2 Cloves Garlic, peeled ½ Medium Sweet White Onion, diced 1 Small Tomato, quartered 1 Tbsp. Sweet Chili ¼ Tsp. Sugar ½ Cup Canola Oil Salt Pepper
Place chicken pieces into a sprayed roasting pan. Brush generously with chili mixture. Put in oven and brush with mixture every 20 minutes until done. Chicken will cook about 45 minutes to an Preheat oven to 350. hour. Once removed from oven, brush any In a sauce pan, boil dried guajillo chilies for 2 minutes. Strain out liquid and put into a blender. remaining sauce over chicken and let rest, tented with foil, at least 10 minutes before Add into the blender: garlic, sweet chili, onion, serving. tomato, sugar and canola oil. Pulse until the mixture becomes smooth. Pour back into saucepan and cook at simmer for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, salt and pepper to taste. PAGE 33
This tasty stir fry recipe is from Donna George, owner of The Peanut Patch in Yuma, Arizona. For more recipes see 2 Cups largely chopped boneless chicken thighs with skin 1 Large onion chopped 1 Red bell pepper chopped 2 Cups halved mushrooms 1 Tbsp. fine chopped garlic 2 Tbsp. olive oil Dash of tamari 1 Tbsp. chopped cilantro 2 Shots hot sauce White Pepper to taste Salt to taste 1 Cup unsalted roasted peanuts, chopped Combine olive oil and onion on medium high heat in large skillet. Don’t stir until onions have caramelized.
When onions are browned - add garlic, pepper, mushrooms. Let them brown on one side before flipping/stirring. Cook to desired tenderness. Add salt and hot sauce. Mix chicken with a little olive oil, a dash of tamari, a dash of salt and white pepper. Put in a medium hot skillet, stir when one side is brown. Cook until done and add to cooked veggies. Add unsalted roasted peanuts and cilantro. Toss and serve.
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4 pounds of chicken breasts or thighs cleaned, no fat and cut 1/4 inch by 2 inches 4 garlic cloves, minced or crushed ¼ cup of minced ginger ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons soy sauce or Tamari sauce 2 tablespoons sesame oil ¼ cup brown sugar ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons lime juice Mix all of your ingredients together except the chicken. Once your chicken is sliced, add to the marinade and let it sit for 45 minutes.
2/3 cup of creamy peanut butter Get a taste of Southeast Asia with this Chicken ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons Asian chili sauce Satay recipe from Chef Jeremy Manley. Known as 2 tablespoons brown sugar “San Diego’s Sustainable Chef,” Jeremy is the ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons lime juice executive chef and owner of Jeremy’s on the Hill 2 teaspoons Tamari or soy sauce California Style Bistro, located in Julian, San 6 tablespoons of water Diego’s mountain destination. For more of his recipes and cooking videos, see Take a large sauté pan, mix all of your www.JeremysontheHill.com. ingredients together until combined and evenly distributed. Heat on a medium flame. Take a sauté pan and place a little oil or butter in it. Over a medium flame, begin cooking your chicken until a golden brown caramel color forms. Flip over and cook another 2-4 minutes. Sprinkle some sesame seeds over the chicken and remove from the flame. Enjoy with your peanut sauce, over a salad or other delicious concoction you wish to create.
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Perfect for families, this delicious recipe is from Ruth Milstein, author of the Gourmand awardwinning recipe book, “Cooking with Love: Ventures into the New Israeli Cuisine.” For more of Ruth’s recipes see . There is something comforting in the aroma of a casserole permeating throughout the house, which seems to leave a yearning for childhood. My mother was a great cook. Since I can remember, we always had a steaming casserole on Saturday for lunch, which lasted until Sunday or Monday. Every day the food took on a different flavor, adding layers of flavor to the dish. The covered dish became a permanent fixture in the house. There were no extras or other sauces, but it was always delicious.
The casserole is a perfect main dish for the holiday or any festive event, but not complicated, so we can prepare it for any weekend or cool evening.
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3 tablespoons olive oil 1 pound of shallots cut into quarters or- 2 large onions, sliced into julienne strips 5 medium size carrots washed and cut into halfinch pieces 3 pounds chicken parts: breast, thighs and legs; skinned 5 garlic cloves peeled and chopped 2 bay leaves ½ teaspoon cinnamon ½ cup of cooked white beans; can be from a can/box 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce 3 cups chicken stock or boiling water or - 2 cups chicken stock and one cup of red wine ½ cup of chopped parsley leaves for garnish
In your large, heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shallots and sauté for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. When the onions soften and cool, add the carrots and cook for 5 minutes. Add the chicken, garlic and bay leaves - then add the cinnamon, beans, teriyaki sauce and the chicken stock. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring to a boil and decrease the heat to a medium-low to reduce the liquid. Cook for 1 hour until the chicken is tender. Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer for 30-45 minutes until most of the liquid is evaporated. Remove the bay leaves. Transfer to a large serving platter. Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top and serve alongside with mashed potatoes, rice or quinoa. Serves 6.
- If you choose to bake the casserole, bake it for 1 hour at 375° and then reduce the heat to 350°. Continue baking for another 30 minutes. Check the liquid occasionally. - You can prepare it in advance up to two days and that includes all the ingredients. - Use a heavy thick pot. This outstanding cooking utensil is well worth your time and investment. PAGE 37
This Dutch Oven dish is from Holly T. Hansen aka “Miss Holly GenTeacher,” the President and Founder of Family History Expos. Learn more about your family history at . I was surprised to learn that foods can hold clues to family history. Years ago, we did a study on dumplings. We learned that there were a variety of dumplings—from dough dropped into a pot of boiling chicken stew resulting in delicious chicken and dumplings, to pie dough stuffed with apples to make a tasty apple dumpling served with ice cream. What comes to your mind when you think of “dumplings?” One of our favorite family traditions is Dutch oven cooking. We enjoy camping with family and friends in a variety of places. As young girls, my sister and I were taught by our mother how to bank a fire overnight and stir the coals to get a roaring fire in the morning.
She had Dad dig a hole in the dirt near the firepit. Then we would line the pit with red-hot coals and place our Dutch oven meal on top of the hot coals. We would carefully shovel more coals on top of the heavy cast-iron lid and then cover the Dutch oven and hot coals with dirt. In the evening, after we returned from a day of hiking and enjoying the mountains around us, we would dig out the oven and brush off all the dirt and ash. Upon carefully removing the lid, we would find a steaming hot, delicious meal to eat.
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Mom told us her mother taught her how to do this. We are now teaching our children and grandchildren to do this. Hot coals from a fire cook much slower than the charcoal briquettes you can purchase at the store, but the results are the same.
Brown coated chicken in bacon drippings. Line bottom of 14-inch Dutch oven with reserved fresh bacon. Layer remaining ingredients in this order: Chicken, potatoes, carrots, onions; repeat. Pour enough apple cider in Dutch oven to where you can just see but not cover top layer. Put lid on Dutch oven. Place 15 hot charcoal briquettes under Dutch oven and about 16 on top. Cook for one hour. Sprinkle with bacon crumbles and serve hot.
2 cups flour Salt and pepper 3 lbs. of boneless chicken cut into 2-inch cubes 1 lb. bacon 8 large potatoes cubed 6 carrots sliced 1 large onion diced ½ gallon apple cider
After done, sprinkle grated cheese and bacon crumbles on individual servings. Use your favorite soda (such as Mountain Dew or orange soda) for a different flavor.
Mix a good portion of pepper and enough salt to flavor flour. Place in bag. Shake until chicken is well coated.
We have to cook this every time we go camping. If you bake it in a conventional oven in a nice stone pan, it also works out well.
Cook bacon until crispy (reserve enough uncooked bacon to line bottom of Dutch oven.)
Ask your Mom about favorite family recipes. Are there any that have been passed down from one generation to the next?
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Award-winning author John Schlimm has a lively Big Blend Radio Happy Hour discussion about his new full-color hardcover release, “MOONSHINE: A Celebration of America's Original Rebel Spirit” published by Citadel Press.
Some things are not too good to be true. Like ice cream and moonshine in one Mason jar! Your choice of vanilla bean – or cocoa bean – infused XXX, and vanilla or chocolate ice cream provide multiple options for a milk shake that will blow Moonshine has as colorful a history as it does your mind. And the cherry on top of this monikers and Schlimm serves up its sordid and delicious treat time is literally a moonshineremarkable past paired with 100 carefully crafted infused cherry on top! moonshine infusions and cocktail recipes, adding 3 ounces unflavored moonshine, vanilla beanfuel and flavor to the burgeoning moonshine infused moonshine, or cocoa bean-infused revival happening right now in distilleries and moonshine bars across the country. Listen to his radio 2 ½ cups Kahlua interview and enjoy his three dessert recipe 2 ½ cups vanilla or chocolate almond milk cocktails, as featured in his new book, ½ cup tonic water “Moonshine.” 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 5 cups vanilla or chocolate ice cream Regular or moonshine-infused maraschino cherries (for garnishing) In a blender, combine all the ingredients, except the cherries, blending until smooth. Pour into chilled Mason jars. Garnish with the cherries. Yields 4 to 5 servings.
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This moonshiner’s banana split cocktail made with banana-infused moonshine and served with all the trimmings – chocolate syrup, coconut flakes, and chocolate shavings – is the ideal way to indulge the craving to have your dessert and drink it, too. 1 ounce banana liqueur 1 ounce banana-infused moonshine ½ cups vanilla or coconut milk 1 ½ cups crushed ice 1 tablespoon chocolate syrup Coconut flakes (for garnishing) Chocolate shavings (for garnishing) In a shaker, combine all the ingredients, except the chocolate syrup and garnishes, shaking well. Strain into a Mason jar. Drizzle the chocolate on top and sprinkle with the coconut flakes and chocolate shavings. Yields 1 cocktail.
The classic, most beloved campfire treat of all time just got a moonshine makeover! Whether savored fireside or not, marshmallow-infused moonshine and chocolate liqueur prove that indulging your sweet tooth doesn’t get any better than this. Powdered cocoa on a small plate (for rimming the Mason jar) 2 ounces marshmallow-infused moonshine 1 ½ ounces chocolate liqueur Chocolate syrup (for drizzling) – optional, but recommended 5 small marshmallows 1 small, bite-size chocolate bar Graham crackers Moisten the rim of a small Mason jar with water. Then press the rim into the cocoa. In a shaker filled with ice, combine the moonshine and liqueur, shaking well. Strain into the Mason jar. Drizzle with chocolate syrup if desired. Garnish with the marshmallows and chocolate bar on a skewer laid across the top of the rim. Serve graham crackers on the side. Yields 1 cocktail.
John Schlimm is an educator, artist, award-winning writer, and a member of one of the oldest and most historic brewing families in the U.S. (Straub Brewery). He is the author of the Christopher Awardwinning memoir “Five Years in Heaven,” and several boozy cookbooks such as “The Tipsy Vegan,” “The Ultimate Beer Lover’s Cookbook,” and his newest release: “MOONSHINE: A Celebration of America’s Original Rebel Spirit.” Learn more at .
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1. You don’t have to starve yourself to avoid weight gain. Eat during family meal times but try to pick healthier choices. To prevent overindulging, pile your plate with fruits and vegetables, saving a little room for your holiday favorites. 2. Ring in the New Year with alcohol in moderation. Moderate drinking is 2 drinks per day for men and one drink a day for women. Your choices include a 12 Oz serving of beer, or a 5 Oz glass of wine, or a 1.5 Oz shot of 80 proof spirit, or a 1.5 Oz shot of 100 proof spirit.
5. Nothing is better than a good night’s rest. Be sure to get a good night’s sleep. The more well rested you are, the more likely you are to engage in mindful eating, and the less likely you are to overeat and gain weight.
3. Remain active. The holidays tend to be busy with little time to go to the gym. That’s okay, you can get back to your regular exercise regime after the holidays when you are not as busy. In the meantime, you can increase your physical activity with your routine chores like power walking while shopping with a basket, doing heavy house hold cleaning, or taking the stairs instead of the elevators. 4. Manage stress. The holidays tend to be pretty stressful. Remember to take time out to do your regularly scheduled stress relieving activity like yoga, tai chi, meditation, or creating art. PAGE 42
The report confirms the need to maintain the strongest commitment to the Paris Agreement’s aims of limiting global warming to well below 2ºC and pursuing efforts towards 1.5ºC. The report also provides an assessment of the latest science on warming of 1.5ºC as opposed to warming of 2ºC. The difference between these two numbers, a mere half of a degree, may not sound like much. But the IPCC projects that a 2°C rise in the global average temperature would lead to worse global and regional climate impacts.
The IPCC’s special report clearly states that the world has already warmed by 1ºC due to human activity. As a result, climate change is already affecting people, ecosystems and livelihoods across the globe, with impacts such as floods or droughts disproportionately affecting the poorest and most vulnerable. Some of the most affected areas are small islands, megacities, coastal regions and high mountain ranges.
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Holiday season is upon us! It’s a great time of year for families to be together and a great opportunity to build even stronger family ties. It’s a natural time for reinforcing the values and beliefs that the family lives by. In the hectic, dayto-day life of a family, a discussion on family values doesn’t often come up. This is where the 8 Keys of Excellence comes in.
Bobbi DePorter, Co-Founder of SuperCamp and President of Quantum Learning Network, discusses the 8 Keys of Excellence character education program that guides young people toward a positive future full of confidence, motivation, creativity, team work, leadership and valuable life principles. From family holiday traditions to goal setting in the New Year, Bobbi focuses on the 7th Key: Flexibility - Be willing to do things differently. Recognize what’s not working and be willing to change what you’re doing to achieve your goal. Learn more about the 8 Keys of Excellence at PAGE 44
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In this rendition of “The Night Before Christmas,” Santa makes a surprise visit to the Allied troops at Bastogne on the frontlines of Europe, Christmas Eve 1944. The follow up to “It’s Snowing in Hawaii,” Mike Guardia’s beautifully illustrated new children’s book shares a heartfelt glimpse into the sacrifices Allied troops made during World War II, along with a joyful dose of Christmas spirit. More at
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When Hannah’s family has to move, her grandmother tells her how she felt leaving the old country — it was both bitter and sweet. As Hannah leaves her friends behind and tries to get used to a new house, she only feels bitterness. Was her grandmother wrong about the sweetness?
Hannah starts to feel better about the move when she sees her new house in the soft light of the Shabbat candles. When a new friend reaches out with a special gift, Hannah realizes that sweetness can come from unexpected places and she finally feels ready to look for the sweet again. More at
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From the discovery of fire a million years ago, to the domestication of animals in the Neolithic era, to the potential future of Martian agriculture, Tanya Steel looks at history through the lens of food to answer questions about the origins of today’s common foods, marvelous inventions that changed the way we ate and cooked, and 30 kid-tested historical recipes, each specific to a particular time and place.
Did you know that Christopher Columbus set out on his most famous voyage in search not of the new world, but cinnamon? Or that rich people in the Middle Ages served flaming peacocks and spun sugar castles to their lucky dinner party guests? Did you ever wonder why M&Ms were invented? (Hint: That candy coating isn’t just for decoration!)? The quest for food has inspired all kinds of adventures and misadventures around the world, and this book explores the wildest and wackiest of them all, from prehistoric times through modern day. More at
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I received performance reviews that were incredibly positive every year with a suggestion that I work on my communication skills. I didn’t know what that I became angry about topics during staff meetings and one of my colleagues used to joke meant and when I asked, I received a flimsy with me, saying “Got out of the wrong side of the answer. I felt pretty sure that I communicated bed today, Sam?” It infuriated me because it felt well and people usually understood me so I shrugged off the suggestion. like he wasn’t hearing my point. He probably wasn’t because I sounded so uncompromising about the issue and I thought he was putting me After eight years my supervisor told me not to apply for her position after she retired. She down. I felt “less than.” described how every one of her supervisors tried Joking doesn’t get through to the emotional to get her to help me find work elsewhere colleague whose tirades annoy you. because I was so argumentative and bossy. My heart was broken and again I felt betrayed since she waited so long to define the problem. She I was a gossiper and was trying to be nice, didn’t want to hurt my complainer about the leadership and I held feelings, and she loved the way I performed in grudges. I loved to find ways that others were unfair and when a colleague agreed with me and my job. just listened, I felt I had a friend. Consequently, I “Being nice” about sharing negative behavior did it more which didn’t help the colleague and doesn’t help the difficult colleague. led to my feeling hurt when I realized he didn’t really agree with me. I felt betrayed and alone. Agreeing with the complainer doesn’t resolve the problem. PAGE 50
If you really want to invite the other person to change, make friends with him. People are willing to change when they feel accepted. Find something in common that you can share, listen to complaints if necessary, find something about the difficult colleague that you can praise. If you can find a positive motivation for the behavior that drives you crazy, it is a good start. For example, with colleague number 1, instead of joking about a tirade, tell the person you appreciate their passion and would like to hear more about it at another time. If you can stand to listen later, you may find that the colleague had a valid reason for feeling as he does. With colleague number 2, you might look at him as a person who pays good attention to detail. See if you can view him through that lens. For colleague number 3, my boss clearly looked at me as having good ideas and she wasn’t offended by how I presented them. If that is the case for you, consider if my boss had said, “You have good ideas but I find that you state them in a way that feels bossy. Did you know you do that?” I might have heard that as real feedback. It would help to have specific examples of when your colleague was bossy or argumentative. Colleague number 4 is tricky because he doesn’t take responsibility for his behavior. If the colleague is bossy (as I was) it helps to look at him as someone who has a clear vision about how a project can get done. He is someone who can quickly visualize the implementation and As a difficult final result. If you can look at the behavior from colleague, I had had a smattering of self help a positive perspective, you will look at the work and when someone told me I “made her feel” a certain way, I leaned back and said, “I can’t colleague differently and be able to share feedback without negativity. make you do anything. You are responsible for your feelings.” She had a clear suggestion that she wanted to make but it came couched in the phrase, “you make me feel…” and I disagreed that I could make anybody feel anything. What people felt was their choice. Make sure you take responsibility for your reaction to the colleague’s behavior. PAGE 51
It took time and effort on my part. I suspect that there are probably some who would say I haven’t totally changed. Until I was told about the behavior, I couldn’t change. I encourage you to follow the suggestions I have made and have the conversation. Don’t quit.
While making friends be dispassionate about the exact behaviors the colleague is doing. Make a list of what words are used, what tone of voice, and the colleague’s actions. Note also the impact of the behavior. This is usually negative. For example, if it leads to losing clients or other employees, harms the team’s productivity, or hinders people’s willingness to be creative in staff meetings. Have a private conversation with the individual where you know you will have some time for resistance to the information. Explain that when the behavior occurs, it has a specific impact on the team, the clients or you. Sometimes an impact is that if it continues, the individual will be let go. Ask if that is what he wants. I had a supervisor who said this to me and I was dumfounded. She had mentioned it in passing one day and I said I was unaware of the behavior and we agreed that she would point it out when I did it again. I did and she did and I felt surprised because I really didn’t know I did it. I felt embarrassed because it hindered my colleagues’ ability to get their work done. I felt the behavior was as much a part of me as breathing and I wondered why nobody had ever mentioned it before. I began a change process that started with my paying attention to how I spoke to people. I had to develop a much greater awareness of people’s reactions especially when I was speaking about something about which I felt passionate. If I wanted to continue in the job I needed to change. PAGE 52
We are in the holiday season again. Many employers want to sponsor parties to thank employees for hard work, to promote comradery, and to celebrate the season. Those are good things and are worth supporting, but holiday parties can breed work place liability. In addition, employers often face other holiday season issues. Employees may want time off to accommodate their religious practices. Holiday decorations can create religious issues. Of course, watch out for mistletoe! The two major issues related to holiday parties are sexual harassment and alcohol. In past articles, I have highlighted facts about naughty Santa Clauses. Those cases might convince you to not have an employee Santa, especially if Santa likes to drink! If you have a Santa, the employer should discuss what the employer expects Santa to do and not do. During any event, do not decorate with mistletoe. Innocent fun is OK, but mistletoe can easily put employees in awkward situations.
If an employer mandates attendance at a holiday party, employees can argue that they should be paid to attend. Even when employers say in writing that they are not mandatory, office pressure to attend can make them mandatory. Truly voluntary functions usually will insulate the employer from wage and other types of liability. Drinking and driving after a holiday party can create employer liability depending on the circumstances. To avoid that, consider having a lunch party, but such parties may require wage payment, if they are not voluntary.
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s ’ a t n a S y a d i l Ho y t Par ! t s Li 15. Hold the party away from the work site. 16. Make sure that sexual harassment training is 1. Choose to not serve alcohol. 2. Do not serve under-aged employees alcohol. 3. Limit the amount employees can drink. 4. Have a professional alcohol caterer screen for intoxication.
up-to-date. 17. Make clear that sexual harassment at the party will not be tolerated. 18. Harassment policies should cover off location
5. Only give out a limited number of drink tickets. events. 19. Hold the event after hours or on a weekend. 6. Have employees pay for the drinks they consume.
20. Hold a voluntary party during the lunch hour.
7. Arrange for alternative transportation.
21. Don’t take attendance.
8. Provide discounted rates at the hotel where
22. Provide plenty of non-alcoholic beverages.
the party is located.
23. Investigate complaints about party events as
9. Attendance should be voluntary.
seriously as you would investigate other work
10. Enforce an end time of the party. 11. Limit the amount of shop talk at the party.
place complaints.
12. Send written notice that you expect good
24. Do not promote employee after parties.
behavior.
25. Make sure clients don’t harass your
13. Don’t ask employees to perform special
employees.
functions at the party.
26. Women can harass at company parties too.
14. Invite the families of the employees. PAGE 54
Freedom of religion is a protected right. Company holiday displays should avoid supporting one religion over another. The U.S. Supreme Court has held that holiday trees are secular in nature, but combining them with religious themes or ornaments can turn them into a symbol. Because workers have individually protected religious rights, employers may allow employees to decorate their personal work spaces as they see fit, but be careful about appearing to support one religion over another. An employer may bar religious displays at work when they create an undue hardship or are public displays that imply employer promotion of a single religion. Employers may need to accommodate employees who have religious based requirements.
Of course, accommodating the needs of only one religious group can harass other groups or could be seen as a failure to accommodate. If an accommodation poses and undue hardship, then the employer need not allow it, but discuss the situation with the employee and try to find an accommodation that does not cause undue hardship. Be thoughtful and fair when making these decisions. Holiday celebration and parties pose risks for employers, but proper planning can greatly reduce those risks.
Consider giving time off to employees who are compelled to attend religious events during work hours. At the very least, enter into an interactive process to determine what accommodations might work. PAGE 55
If you’re a diehard fan of the game, a pilgrimage to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio is probably on your bucket list. Voted the Top Tourist Attraction in Ohio and America’s Best Attraction for Sports Fans, the Hall bills itself as “The Most Inspiring Place on Earth,” and is widely regarded as the “Sistine Chapel of Football.” And the fact that it’s located in Canton gives it additional significance, as this is the birthplace of professional football. The city made its mark in pro football back in 1920, when representatives of ten teams gathered in town to form the American Pro Football Association, later renamed the National Football League. But, it didn’t stop there. In 1961, Canton successfully bid to be the location for the Pro Football Hall of Fame and two years later, the Hall opened its doors. Suddenly, the city took on rock star status in the eyes of the football world. Visitors began flocking to this hallowed place where history is celebrated every year with the enshrinement of gridiron royalty.
Held in early August, Enshrinement Week has grown in stature and now heralds the beginning of the NFL season. If you can’t make it to this much lauded event, don’t despair, as a visit to the Hall any other time of the year is special. And if you’re not a fan of the game when you enter, there’s a good chance you’ll be one when you leave. Now a nationally accredited museum and the first major sports hall of fame to hold this designation, the institution offers guests an immersive experience into the world of pro football.
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In “The NFL’s First Century Gallery,” you’ll learn the story of professional football from its humble beginnings to the worldwide phenomenon it is today, through the use of state-of-the-art interactives and one-of-a-kind artifacts. A towering bronze statue of Jim Thorpe, considered a legend in the sport, holds a prominent position in the gallery. Upstairs, there’s more historical information on display, combined with inspirational stories of the game’s pioneers, great players and coaches. The impact of pro football on society is also documented via audio and video installations in the exhibits, “Road to Equality” and “Pop Culture.” For many, the “Hall of Fame Gallery” is a highlight, as it houses the bronze busts of all the Hall of Famers, from the inaugural class of 1963 to the present (318 in total), along with bios, photos and videos of each of the inductees. “A Game for Life” is another visitor favorite.
It’s a cutting edge, multi-sensory show, featuring holographic representations of Hall of Famers Joe Namath, George Halas and Vince Lombardi, who show how the game of football can be used to teach inspirational lessons about life. Recent history-making performances and milestone moments are the focus in the “Pro Football Today Gallery,” while the “Lamar Hunt Super Bowl Gallery” chronicles Super Bowl history with exciting game footage and interactive kiosks. You’ll be dazzled by all the bling when you see all the Super Bowl rings on display. Outside, is the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, where the enshrinement ceremony, Hall of Fame Game and the Concert for Legends are held. Nearby, is the National Youth Football & Sports Complex, a home for football, soccer, lacrosse and rugby. In the works is a major expansion project to the 200-acre campus that will up the ante when it comes to Canton’s appeal as a must-see destination.
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Construction has already begun on the Johnson Controls Hall of Fame Village, a mixed-use development to include a football-themed luxury hotel, shops, restaurants, a performance center, player care center and the Hall of Fame Experience, an indoor amusement park and football-themed waterpark. The goal is to have the majority of the project completed by September, 2020, when the football world will converge in Canton to celebrate the centennial of the NFL’s founding in the city. Though the Hall is the number one attraction in Canton, the city offers a host of other sights and activities for visitors to enjoy. You might be surprised to learn that President McKinley, a native Ohioan, called Canton home throughout his adult life. He began his legal career, married his wife and ran for the nation’s highest office here, campaigning with his famous “front porch” speeches. So, it is fitting that he is also buried here. His body and those of his wife and daughters are entombed in a massive, beehiveshaped mausoleum, reached by a set of 108 steps. Next door to the memorial is the McKinley Presidential Library and Museum. History buffs will also be interested in the First Ladies National Historical Site, which is a unit of the National Park Service and operated in partnership with the National First Ladies’ Library. This nonprofit organization’s mission is to preserve, promote and educate the public about the significant role of First Ladies of the U.S. and their contributions throughout history. The site consists of the Ida Saxton McKinley House, the family home of First Lady Ida Saxton McKinley and the longtime residence of William and Ida McKinley, together with the Education and Research Center. The home is a brick Victorian structure, built in 1841, and furnished in the style of the era. Costumed docents give regularly scheduled tours of the place.
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Take the Hall of Fame City Food Tour with Canton Food Tours for a foray into the city’s burgeoning culinary scene. You’ll get to sample dishes from several notable restaurants downtown. The tour is both a progressive dinner experience and informative walking tour. Along the way, you’ll stop at various points of interest to check out the colorful public art, learn about noteworthy buildings, like the historic Palace Theater and the Stark County Courthouse with its famous “Trumpeters of Justice” angels, and stroll through the hip and happening Music Block in the Arts District. With museums, galleries, concerts, theater and community-wide arts events, there’s no shortage of cultural opportunities in the city.
Over at newly-opened Street Side, it’s all about Mexican street food, with an assortment of tasty tacos, burritos and bowls, while at George’s Lounge (once a crooner’s bar where Dean Martin sang), gourmet burgers and hand-cut fries with “dipster” sauces are local favorites. The sauces aren’t your run-of-the-mill flavors, but rather interesting concoctions like Spicy Thai Peanut, Ohio Maple Syrup, Blue Ribbon Beer Cheese and Ben’s Peanut Butter. Wash it all down with a Grannie’s Dutch Apple Pie shake or a local craft beer.
Basil Asian Bistro is the place to go if you’re Canton boasts an assortment of eclectic eateries, looking for a meld of exotic flavors from the cafes, coffeehouses and food trucks. At Bender’s Orient, with dishes such as Vietnamese Phó, Tavern, the oldest restaurant in town, turtle soup Green Mango Grouper and Coconut Spaghetti. is the house specialty, along with a variety of fresh seafood and prime steaks. PAGE 59
For a truly memorable food and wine experience, make sure you visit Gervasi Vineyard, just ten minutes from downtown Canton. As soon as you enter through the arches of this exquisite estate, you’ll be transported to Old World Tuscany. The 55-acre property has a state-of-the-art winemaking facility, producing over twenty varietals, five plus acres of vineyards, lush landscapes, a spring-fed lake and charming brick walking paths. There are three dining facilities available: The Crush House & Winery, a delightful cafÊ by day and lounge by night, with a Napa-Valley-style tasting room experience; The Bistro, an upscale restaurant serving authentic Italian dishes; and The Piazza, where casual fare is served lakeside. A fourth option, The Still House, is in the works. It will be a coffeehouse during the day, and a distillery in the evening. PAGE 60
For those who wish to spend the night, Gervasi offers twenty-four, luxury suite accommodations in The Villas, or you can choose to stay in The Farmhouse, a completely restored, original, 1830s home. More rooms will soon be added when The Casa, a new boutique hotel, opens on site. And for corporate events, weddings and private celebrations, there’s The Villa Grande, an elegant venue that projects the feel of a grand Tuscan home. But, wait, there’s more! You can take cooking classes from top-notch chefs and instructors at The Cucina, and shop ‘til you drop at The Marketplace, a rustic, cozy store with a unique array of items and wines.
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Nestled between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Bahia de Banderas, sits the magical city of Puerto Vallarta. This year Puerto Vallarta celebrates both 100 years as a municipality, and 50 years as a city. There have been many celebrations happening throughout the year and more to come. Most recently, the historic center of Puerto Vallarta was designated a protected Cultural Heritage Center; this historic center is the heart of the city and a major attraction to all visitors. The beautiful colonial architecture of Puerto Vallarta’s downtown area is now officially protected by state and federal laws in Mexico. This will preserve the architecture and “essential characteristics” of the popular beach destination from further changes.
The 1964 film “Night of the Iguana” was filmed in Puerto Vallarta by director John Huston, and put Puerto Vallarta on the map. It was then that the rest of the world discovered this tropical paradise and started coming to explore the area themselves. John Huston eventually made his home in a cove on Las Caletas, a small beach just south of Puerto Vallarta only accessible by boat and very secluded. It is a wonderful location for an outing for the day.
Encompassing several neighborhoods, the cultural heritage zone stretches from the Malecón near the Hotel Rosita (the oldest hotel in Puerto Vallarta) to the charming cobblestone Along with lying along the coast of one of the streets of the Zona Romantica. The heritage zone most beautiful bays in the world, and having also includes iconic landmarks such as the been named the “Friendliest City” by Church of the Virgin of Guadalupe, with its in 2001; Puerto Vallarta is also one of the best majestic crown that can be seen from many gastronomic beach destinations in Mexico. points in the city. PAGE 62
Puerto Vallarta is proud of it gastronomy and the variety that is available. It has almost 400 restaurants with something to suit everyone’s palate... from Mexican, International, to fusion cuisine. With some of the freshest ingredients available, there are endless possibilities. Every May, they hold a restaurant week with set menus and promotions from participating restaurants to entice diners to visit local restaurants. It has become more and more popular every year, with the week extending to almost a month this year because of its popularity. Puerto Vallarta is a city full of history, culture, and gastronomy. Throughout the year, they hold many events that celebrate their cuisine. The International Gourmet Festival, now in its 24th year, running from Nov. 23 to Dec. 2, 2018 is one to look out for. The festival is known for featuring the talent of world-renowned Chefs representing National and European restaurants from all over the world to create delicacies for every palate. During the festival, there are chef tastings, culinary safaris, sensorial tastings and themed nights offering distinct dishes from cities around the world. Definitely something you want to experience! PAGE 63
It is no wonder that Puerto Vallarta won three Silver Statues for Best Culinary Destination in Mexico during the International Travvy Awards, held in New York City last January. Puerto Vallarta was also voted as one of the Best Cities in the world in 2017 Readers’ Choice Awards; it was also the only beach city in the top 40 Best Cities. Nominated in the Best Cities category again this year, they will hopefully be able to celebrate this 100th year with another best city award!
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Although I specialise in visiting places well off the beaten track plus places associated with your own family history and interests – and as I also take people to where they want to go – I often go to the internationally known tourist places too. After all, if you are visiting England for the first time, you may well want to see Stone Henge, Windsor Castle, Stratford Upon Avon and York, and I am more than happy to arrange these visits and take you there too. Starting the visit to Windsor from the station carI enjoy visiting Windsor, with its tiny streets, fantastic Castle and beautiful river. I always love park, gives a great view of the Castle and shows how it dominates the area, with the massive my trips around the area but the downside of walls and the Keep towering on the skyline and, visiting these well known tourist places is that walking up into the town, shows just why the you are surrounded by hundreds of other position was chosen, on a natural high point in tourists, doing the same thing, eating massthe surrounding, open countryside. The Keep is produced food and buying the same massconstructed on a man-made motte, making it produced, imported tourist tat. Saying that, it is still possible, if you look hard, amid all the hustle even more intimidating. and bustle of a tourist trap, to find locally produced souvenirs and real, local, fresh food too and that’s what I always do when I go there. PAGE 66
The street follows the line of the curtain wall and leads us up towards the main gate of the Castle, past the shops and hotels which open out onto a wide open roadway. It wasn’t always like this, there used to be buildings nestled right up against some of the Castle walls but these were removed, reminding us that, what we are looking at, isn’t what it may appear to be. It is the product of nine hundred years of additions, renovations, demolitions, rebuildings and alterations. It is the biggest Castle in the world and has been continuously lived in for over nine centuries, so very little of the original medieval castle remains. That being the case, it doesn’t stop me continuing to visit it, as it is an amazing and inspirational place.
We go in via the visitors’ entrance and, after all the security checks wend our way into the Castle Wards. (The word “Ward” is used here, as opposed to “Bailey” but they both mean the same. An enclosed area within the Castle walls.) The first thing I noticed, was the feeling of being “inside”, as opposed to being out there with the others. Within the Castle walls, there is a feeling of calm and safety, even though we are surrounded by people and they are the same people who were “out there”.
The scale of the walls from the outside didn’t prepare me for the massive enclosed area which was inside. Walking into this area is like walking into a secret garden, with buildings as well as gardens. Massive stone walls, gateways, paths, shops, the Chapel, gigantic Gothic windows, As we get to the top of the hill, we see a statue of views out over the surrounding countryside and Queen Victoria, and turn left to have a look at the the hustle and bustle of people, all go together bridge and gate-house but we don’t go in that to make the experience quite surreal. way, this is the way in for those who live there! PAGE 67
Add to this, the recognition of many of the buildings from pictures and films of the Royal family, remembering the many important occasions where this Castle formed the backdrop and what starts as just a visit to a Castle, turns into a trip down memory lane too. The limited inside areas open to the public are equally fascinating but I’ll leave you to explore them on the many websites available. Suffice to say, the rooms are what you would expect for one of the homes of the richest and famous families in the world. This is, after all, a home, as well as a tourist attraction and the royal family do spend a lot of the year living here, in their private quarters.
In the bottom Ward, we see St George’s Chapel, which was established by Edward III and is a spectacular edifice which, like the rest of the Castle, has undergone lots of changes over the centuries. Started in the C14th, redeveloped in the late C15th and completed in the early C16th, it is the final resting place of several of our Kings and Queens and many members of the Royal Family. It has also been the scene of many happy royal events too, including the recent wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan.
Walking around the Castle, we encounter guards and police, reminding us that this is a very security conscious area. The entrance gate, which is the pedestrian exit, has massive metal bollards and barriers, as well as armed officers, The views from the Castle grounds are fantastic which, for us, is very unusual. Out through the and helps explain why this spot was chosen, as gate, we are back in the town. There are lots of the site overlooks the river and for many miles little streets and lots of shops, cafes and pubs over the surrounding countryside, with Eaton but it is important for me to find local shops and College Chapel, which was started by Henry VI, in eateries, selling locally produced goods and real the near distance. fresh food. PAGE 68
It is always worth taking the time looking for these places because the rewards are so great. Real souvenirs from the place I’m in and food which doesn’t come out of a freezer and microwave. Going back to the car, I always take a stroll by the river, as it is so peaceful and relaxing, even though we are only a short distance from London and within a few miles of Heathrow Airport. Windsor, is a great place to visit!
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BIG BLEND RADIO WORLD PARTY Celebrate the World of Travel, Film & Music
- World Travel Panel Discussion with travel writers Debbie Stone and Kristin Henning, copublisher of . - South African guitarist /singer-songwriter James Saunders discusses his new single 'Only the Best Dancer' - Steve Schneickert recalls the Hollywood History of 1943 American Western film 'The Outlaw'.
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Nestled in the heart of Kentucky, a region known for its “Bourbon, Horses and History”, Springfield is the ancestral home of Abraham Lincoln’s family, and is on the Lincoln Scenic Byway, Kentucky Bourbon Trail, TransAmerica Bicycle Trail, the Barn Quilt Trail and Kentucky Fiber Trail. The region boasts numerous outdoor activities including golf, hiking and bicycling, birding and wildlife watching, along with fishing and canoeing. There are numerous historic, art and cultural sites to experience, as well as events that range from musical performances to a variety of annual festivals and events. For travel and up-to-date event information, call Springfield Tourism Commission at (859) 3365412 x1 or visit . PAGE 72
Nov. 1-30: Artist Marilyn Meyer & Friends Exhibit at The Opera House Nov. 16-17: Christmas Crafters Market & Merchants Open House Nov. 16-Dec. 14: Santa Claus at City Hall Nov. 23-25, 30, Dec. 1-2: A Christmas Carol – Central Kentucky Theatre Dec. 7-9: James Bond III Film Festival, Christian Edition Dec. 8-9: The Beautiful Music of Christmas – MidKentucky Arts in St. Catharine Jan. 18-20, 25-27: My Way – A Musical Tribute to Frank Sinatra. Central Kentucky Theatre
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Founded in 1714 by Louis Juchereau de St. Denis, Natchitoches is the original French Colony and oldest city in Louisiana, and celebrates a vibrant blend of French, Spanish, African, Native American and Creole cultures. Natchitoches is home to the Cane River Creole National Historical Park, is part of the Cane River National Heritage Area, and is the final destination on the El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail that runs up from Mexico and Texas. The Cane River National Heritage Trail, a Louisiana Scenic Byway that runs along Cane River Lake, links to the Isle Brevelle Trail and El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail, with Longleaf Trail and Kisatchie National Forest on the outskirts. Along with Cane River National Historical Park, another popular historic site to visit is Melrose Plantation. Built in 1796, Melrose Plantation is a National Historic Landmark, and shares the story of slave Marie Thérèse Coincoin and her ten Franco-African children with Thomas Pierre Metoyer, as well as the Isle Brevelle Creole community, the Civil War, plantation history, and Louisiana folk art.
The downtown National Historic Landmark District area runs along the banks of Cane River Lake, and features historic sites and buildings, museums, art galleries, specialty boutique shops, restaurants and Bed & Breakfast Inns. Centrally located, Natchitoches is just 275 miles from New Orleans, 255 miles from Dallas, Texas, and 290 miles from Little Rock, Arkansas. To learn more about the area’s attractions and events, lodging establishments, shops and . restaurants, visit
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Nov. 2: Gathering of the Tribes Nov. 3: Remembering the Great War Nov. 3: Briarwood Plant Sale Nov. 5: A Celebration of Peace with Music from the Americas Nov. 5: An Evening with Margot Lee Shettery Nov. 10: The Ultimated Historic Toss Nov. 10: NSU Football vs. McNeese Nov. 17-Jan. 6: 92nd Annual Christmas Festival of Lights Nov. 17: Les Amies Christmas Treasures Arts & Crafts Show Nov. 23-Dec. 21: Holiday Kids Fest (Fridays) Nov. 23-Dec. 25: Christmas in the Park Nov. 24: Fleur de Lis Arts & Crafts Show Nov. 28-30: NSU Christmas Gala Dec. 1: 92nd Annual Christmas Festival Dec. 4: 10th Annual NSU Multicultural Christmas Concert Dec. 6-8, 13 & 14: Holiday Tour of Homes Dec. 15: Los Posadas
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– Located in the southern Sierra Nevada region, and spanning 461,901 acres, the park is made up of mostly wilderness, forests and spectacular canyons, with – One of the first parks in Kings Canyon itself being one of the deepest the country, Sequoia NP is famous for its rich canyons in the United States. The park is known diversity of plants, bird and wildlife, including its for being home to the General Grant Grove of giant sequoia trees and black bears. giant sequoia trees, the famous General Grant Tree, and the Redwood Mountain Grove which is the largest remaining natural grove of giant sequoias in the world. .
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Use our handy guide to help you plan your Sequoia visit!
There are limestone caverns to explore and granite domes and spires to see, along with archaeological sites. The activities are endless!
Visit the General Sherman Tree (the largest living organism and tree in the world), climb Moro Rock, take in spectacular views of Mt. Whitney (the highest mountain in the contiguous 48 states), and hike through glacial canyons, meadows and woodlands. Covering 404,064 acres, there are hundreds of streams, ponds, rivers, creeks and lakes, and over 200 marble caverns to explore.
– Featuring 33 groves of giant sequoia trees, the Sequoia National Forest is home to the biggest concentration of giant sequoia groves. These groves are protected within the Giant Sequoia National Monument, which encompasses over 353,000 acres of diverse landscape, including two wild and scenic rivers, lakes, and six wilderness areas. Along with the magnificent giant sequoias, the area boasts a myriad of plant, bird and animal species. PAGE 77
A major agricultural hub that feeds America, Tulare County welcome you to get a taste of the region’s bounty at one of the many roadside farm stands or community farmers markets, restaurants and gourmet shops, festivals and events. Along with breweries and wineries, the area’s dining opportunities range from tasty Mexican cuisine and delicious European flavors to fresh farm-to-table fare and traditional American diner food. If you’re looking for a foodie adventure, look no further! Explore the park and forest gateway communities. Three Rivers is a vibrant art community that hosts a variety of seasonal and cultural activities. Exeter is a quaint art and agricultural community with a historic downtown district known for its beautiful series of murals, antique shops and restaurants. The oldest permanent inland settlement between Stockton and Los Angeles, Visalia boasts a charming historic downtown district that features the Visalia Convention Center and the historic Fox Theater.
Home to the International Agri-Center as well as the Tulare Outlet Center, Tulare is a dairy community that’s home a historic downtown district boasting lovely tree lined streets, murals, boutique shops, and restaurants. Porterville is an All American City that boasts a vibrant historic downtown district. Also an agricultural community with a historic downtown, Dinuba is near Kings Canyon National Park.
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Located east of Monterey and Salinas, San Benito County in central California, is the eastern gateway destination of Pinnacles National Park and part of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. This picturesque region is made up of the historic communities of Hollister, Tres Pinos, San Juan Bautista, Aromas, Paicines and New Idria. Less than 2 hours from San Francisco and 5 hours from Los Angeles, San Benito County makes for an ideal travel destination with outdoor activities such as bird watching and hiking, golf and tennis, as well as a wine tasting trail, a delectable selection of dining options, boutique shopping, historic parks and museums, and a fun calendar of events! For up-to-date event information and to plan your San Benito County adventure, please contact the San Benito County Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau at (831) 637-5315 or visit or .
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With over 30 miles of trails through varied landscapes, and an abundance of bird, plant and wildlife species, Pinnacles National Park makes for the ultimate hiking adventure. The park boasts beautiful and diverse habitats that range from shaded oak woodlands and chaparral scrub, to open grasslands, craggy canyons, cool caves and stunning rock spires.
Home to over 140 bird species, including the magnificent California condor, the park is a popular destination for birders, especially during the fall migration season. Fall and early winter are wonderful seasons to visit the park. Along with the cooler temperatures, it tends to be quieter and less crowded. There are trails for all fitness levels, and some are wheelchair accessible. The eastern entrance of the park is on CA Hwy 146 coming from Hollister in San Benito County. More at
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Living History Days, First Saturdays in San Juan Bautista State Historic Park Sidewalk Saturdays, First Saturdays in Downtown San Juan Bautista Holiday Hayride Tours, Nov. 17-Dec. 22 at Hollister Hills State Vehicle Recreation Area Nov. 3-4: El Teatro Campesino dia de los Muertos, San Juan Bautista Nov. 10: Strolling San Juan Bautista Shop & Sip Nov. 11: Veterans’ Day Parade in Downtown Hollister Nov. 17: Grand Re-Opening of San Benito County Historical Society Wapple House Museum Nov. 17: Gabilan Cutters Show at Bolado Park Event Center in Tres Pinos Nov. 23: El Teatro Campesino Christmas Pageant Play, Mission San Juan Bautista Nov. 24: 28th Annual Lights On Celebration in Downtown Hollister Dec. 1: 13th Annual Holiday of Lights Celebration & Parade in San Juan Bautista Dec. 11: Oriana Choral / Holiday Choir Performance in San Juan Bautista Dec. 14: Holiday Bonfire and Santa, Community Center in San Juan Bautista Dec. 15: 7th Annual Double Road Race in San Juan Bautista Dec. 21: Annual Winter Solstice Observation at Old Mission San Juan Bautista PAGE 82
Greeley is everything good about America— rodeos and arts picnics, live theater and music festivals, beautiful parks and great museums. What surprises await you in Greeley? A community full of art. A State-certified Creative District. Incredible opportunities to interact with Colorado history. Entertainment to suit every taste in music and performance as well as festive annual events including the Blues Jam, Arts Picnic, Jazz Festival, Monster Day, OktoBrewFest, High Plains Chautauqueta, and Greeley Lights the Night Parade which will celebrate its 23rd year on Nov. 24, 2018. With more than 165 restaurants in Greeley, you can find almost anything to tease your palate. Along with two distilleries, several breweries call Greeley home with locations scattered all across town. Celebrate Greeley’s agricultural heritage at the Farmer’s Market (May-Oct) and annual events including the Stampede, County Fair, Colorado Farm Show, and Potato Day.
Take a historic walking tour. Go shopping downtown. Explore Centennial Village, the Colorado Model Railroad Museum, Meeker Home Museum and Greeley History Museum. Explore the nearby Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, the Pawnee National Grassland and St. Vrain State Park. Year-round recreational opportunities include hiking, camping, bird and wildlife viewing, horseback riding, watersports, fishing, skiing, and winter sports.
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South of Reno and east of Yosemite National Park, Yerington is located in western Nevada, just off the Pony Express National Historic Trail and on the California National Historic Trail. Built as a U.S. Army fort in 1861, Fort Churchill State Historic Park is a 30 minute scenic drive from Yerington. Tour the ruins, visit the museum and cemetery, picnic, go camping and hike the nature trail, and enjoy various ranger programs. Buckland Station is just down the road from Fort Churchill, and was a supply center and boarding house. You can tour the house and picnic outside. Both sites are part of the Pony Express and California National Historic Trails. Other area highlights include: Lyon County Yerington’s historic downtown district is Museum, Yerington Theatre for the Arts, Mason charming with shops, restaurants and casinos, Valley Wildlife Management Area, Walker River including Dini’s Lucky Club – the oldest family run Canyon, Walker Lake and Wilson Canyon. For casino in the state! The surrounding Mason and more about Yerington, visit Smith Valley areas are beautiful with lush . farmlands that stretch out to natural areas complete with rugged high desert hillsides and Nov. 1: Day of the Dead Movie Night desert shrub lands, wetland ponds and Nov. 2: Day of the Dead Performance meadows active with birdlife, and wind carved Nov. 16: Jelly Bread Musical Concert canyons that dip down to cool running waters. Nov. 20: Native American Dance Festival The region is a popular birding, geocaching and Dec. 8: 2nd Annual Yerington Parade of Lights hiking destination.
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The ‘Gateway to the Great Southwest’ welcomes you to step back into old west history, rejuvenate in the great outdoors, feel the rush of athletic competitiveness, and delight in seasonal shopping, local flavors, festive community events and artistic celebrations. Located along the lower Colorado River in southwest Arizona, Yuma borders Mexico and is halfway between Tucson and San Diego. It’s a historic, cultural and outdoor adventure destination with attractions that include the Colorado River, Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area, Yuma Territorial Prison, Colorado River State Historic Park (formerly Quartermaster Depot), Yuma Art Center & Historic Yuma Theatre, and a charming historic downtown district that bustles with an eclectic array of shops and restaurants. Celebrating its listing in the Guinness Book of Records as the ‘Sunniest Place on Earth’, and boosting quality of life for Yuma’s local families and visiting communities, the City of Yuma’s Parks & Recreation Department manages over 600 acres, and over 30 parks that include neighborhood basin parks, athletic complexes, golf courses, a gymnasium, outdoor basketball courts, and volleyball courts.
Events are also a big component in keeping Yuma’s fun meter running on high. From art classes and youth sports activities to festivals and parades, the City of Yuma hosts a full calendar of educational, athletic, and family community events that celebrate the region’s culture, the arts, and local sporting opportunities.
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Dec. 11: Blue Christmas Concert Dec. 17: Desert Hills Junior Golf Clinic Dec. 18: Honky Tonk Christmas Dec. 30: Desert Hills Foot Golf Clinic
Nov. 3: 26th Annual Children's Festival of the Arts Nov. 4: Desert Hills Family Golf Clinic Nov. 16-18: Colorado River Balloon Crossing Festival Nov. 17: North End Art Walk Nov. 17: The Peanut Patch Anniversary Party Nov. 23: Desert Hills Golf Course Ping Demo Day Nov. 27: The Manhattan Dolls – Sentimental Journey Nov. 30: It's a Christmas Ball Dec. 1: Loko Bandito Obstacle Run Dec. 1: Desert Hills Birdies & Beer Christmas Cheer Dec. 1: Christmas Lighting on Main Street Dec. 8: Holiday Art Bazaar Dec. 8: Dorothy Young Memorial Electric Light Parade Dec. 9: Desert Hills Family Golf Clinic
Jan. 4-6, 2019: Yuma Bird, Nature and History Festival Jan. 5: Yuma Men’s Expo Jan. 5: Desert Hills Foot Golf Tournament Jan. 8: A Salute to Hank Williams, Patsy Cline & Early Country Music Jan. 9: A Salute to the Music of Bobby Darin Jan. 10: One of These Nights - The Eagles Tribute Concert Jan. 12-13: Desert Hills Golf Course Women’s City Championship Jan. 18: Neon Circus - The #1 Tribute to Brooks & Dunn Concert Jan. 19: Art in the Park Jan. 19: Yuma German Fest Jan. 19: Cash & Company: The Outlaws Concert Jan. 25: Scottish Burns Supper Jan. 16: Yuma Medjool Date Festival Jan. 29: The Johnny Cash Roadshow Experience Jan. 30: The Las Vegas Blues Brothers Concert Jan. 31: Diamond In The Rough Concert
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Yuma Landing Bar & Grill Come Eat, Drink & Be Merry where the First Airplane Landed in Arizona!
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Yuma Landing Restaurant American & South-of-the-Border Cuisine Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Win! Win! Win! Sign up on YumaLanding.com for our Captain’s Log e-Newsletter and you will be entered into our monthly drawing for a $25 Yuma Landing Gift Certificate, plus you'll get news on other great giveaways, specials, Yuma Landing recipes, events news & more! Located on the same property as the Historic Coronado Motor Hotel, the Yuma Landing Bar & Grill is the site where the first airplane landed in Arizona, and features a state monument, historic photos and memorabilia. Groups of 15 or more diners get a 15% discount on breakfast, lunch and dinner. All Military Personnel Receive a 20% Discount on Meals!
195 S. 4th Avenue, Yuma, Arizona Tel: (928) 782-7427
www.YumaLanding.com
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Historic Coronado Motor Hotel Yuma's Destination Hotel Celebrating Over 80 Years of Tradition Where The Past Makes History
Ideal Location Close to Shopping, Restaurants, Attractions & Activities Over 120 Clean & Comfortable Guest Rooms Full Cooked Breakfast at Yuma Landing Bar & Grill Free Hi-Speed Internet & WiFi ~ Work Desk Flat Screen TV & DVD Player Fridge ~ Microwave ~ Coffee Maker Iron & Ironing Board ~ Hair Dryer ~ In-Room Safe Two Swimming Pools ~ 1 Fitness Center 2 Business Centers ~ Guest Laundry Facilities Free Parking for Cars, Boats, Buses, RVs & Trucks Group Rates & Government Per Diem Rates
233 4th Avenue, Yuma, AZ 85364 Toll Free: (877) 234-5567 Local: (928) 783-4453 Subscribe to our Captain’s log e-Newsletter for specials!
www.CoronadoMotorHotel.com