NY, VEGAS+ LONDON NEW YEAR'S EVE DESTINATIONS
2018
HOROSCOPE
HELP OUR
NEIGHBORS FIRE VICTIMS Serving Beach Cities and LA's Westside
IN THIS ISSUE
GO/DO
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32 12 EAT/DRINK SAVING THE ANIMALS
14 HELP OUR FIRE VICTIMS INSIDE WNS
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SIGHTS OF THE SEASON
CLEAR YOUR 'STUFF'
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GO/DO
IN
LIVE LIKE KEVIN!
NEW YORK
In honor of the 25th anniversary of Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, The Plaza is excited to give film fans the opportunity to
‘Live Like Kevin.’
Now you can follow the adventures of Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) in the film Home Alone 2: Lost In New York. In room and throughout the hotel a variety of experiences inspired by Kevin’s time over the holiday’s at The Plaza will come to life for guests to enjoy.
Your package will Include a 4-hour limousine tour through NYC where you can use your Home Alone Map to guide you through Kevin’s adventure. Availability: Between Friday, Dec 1, 2017 & Oct 29, 2018. Details HERE
Relax with your favorite movie and plan your next trip for New Years! Recreate Your Own 'Hangover ' Experience in Vegas
LIVING LAS VEGAS Fans of the film can recreate their own Hangover experience, though it won't include a tiger, in a Caesars Palace hotel room. Featured in blockbuster films, the Caesars Palace Hangover Suite is a twobedroom suite which provides for
the ultimate celebrity trip (standard nightly rates can range from $1,600 – $2,200). If you can’t stay in the famous suite, you can select your room HERE. SILICON BEACH MAGAZINE
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GO/DO
LONDON
How to Experience the 'Bridget Jones' Lifestyle in the UK
If you need that extra push to feel like you’re living the Bridget Jones’ lifestyle, then why not visit the location used in the blockbuster movie 'Bridget Jones' Baby,' and you can always hop over to locations from 'Notting Hill, 'Love Actually' and' 'Four Weddings.'
great shopping destinations and for a good night out with friends, London has you covered from cocktail bars, old-fashioned boozers, bistros and clubs.
One of the best boutique hotels in London is the Como Metropolitan, a true 5-star Famously known for her very large and property in the sophisticated Park Lane area sensible knickers, bright pink skiing gear and and co-located with Nobu Restaurant. Start show-stopping outfits, Bridget Jones’ style planning your stay HERE. can be emulated in one of Britain’s many
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SAVE T HE ANIMALS
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o much damage and tragedy has taken place with the fires in Southern California and the animals and pets have been injured and lost needing volunteers to foster along with need for donations. The Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club is providing shelter to all horses needing evacuation from the Thomas Fire in Ventura County. Volunteers are needed to help feed, water and help at the stables of the evacuated horses. The club is also requesting feed and barn supply donations at (805) 455-2400.
For Ventura Fire Relief Humane Society of Ventura County needs help as 100's of animals are being housed at the Humane Society location. They’re in need of alfalfa hay, Timothy hay, cat food, rabbit food and more. Info HERE Donations may be dropped off at the shelter at 402 Bryant St. in Ojai.
For Los Angeles Fire Relief
For San Diego Lilac Fire Relief
LOS ANGELES COUNTY ANIMAL CARE FOUNDATION
SAN LUIS REY DOWNS RELIEF
Donate to Noah's Legacy Fund, which provides supplies, training, and equipment to first responders charged with rescuing animals from areas stricken by natural disasters. Donations and help through the LACACF website HERE. If you can offer an interim home for displaced animals, visit The Humane Society of the United States, Los Angeles Office HERE.
Santa Anita Park, The Stronach Group, and the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club have set up a GoFundMe page with donations going to Lilac Fire recovery efforts. Feed, bedding, blankets and many other everyday supplies are still needed for both human and equine evacuees, and donations towards medical bills, housing, and other essential amenities are necessary to help the hurting California horse racing community. Info HERE
SAN DIEGO FOUNDATION
The foundation’s regional disaster fund makes grants to nonprofit organizations that demonstrate impact in disaster response, recovery, rebuilding and preparedness. They are accepting donations for Lilac Fire efforts at their website HERE.
SAN DIEGO HUMANE SOCIETY
It is asking for bedding, wire crates, dog and cat food and bowls to be dropped off at its San Diego or Escondido campuses. Monetary donations for fire recovery efforts can also be made online HERE.
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nstead of giving holiday gifts, please consider donating to one of these relief organizations or funds and help our fuzzy friends find a home for the New Year. SILICON BEACH MAGAZINE
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HOW YOU CAN HELP FIRE VICTIMS
H
ere's how you can can donate to the victims of the devastating wildfires burning in Ventura County and elsewhere in Southern California.
The California Fire Foundation provides victim assistance through Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency (SAVE) which provides emergency short-term financial assistance to fire and natural disaster victims in California year-round, including both firefighters and civilians, donations HERE. United Way chapters in both Los Angeles and Ventura counties have established fire relief funds for communities hit by the blazes. Donations can be made HERE.
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The Red Cross, which is operating multiple evacuation centers in LA County, is accepting donations HERE. The Salvation Army, now providing food and supplies to evacuees in Ventura County, is also requesting donations HERE.
You can also visit crowdfunding campaigns related to the fires at GoFundMe and YouCaring.
T
he series of southern California wildfires, starting with the Thomas Fire on Dec. 4, have burned more than 230,000 acres and forced thousands of Los Angeles residents to evacuate their homes, making it the fifth largest California wildfire in modern history, according to CAL Fire, a fire protection agency. As of Monday, Dec. 11, the fire has only been 15 percent contained and continues to pose a threat to local residents and the neighboring cities of Los Angeles.
With the fires still ablaze, there's ways you can donate to California fire victims.
San Diego Victims + Fire Crew
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f you wish to donate goods or money to help evacuees or fire crews in the San Diego Firestorm, here are some organizations accepting donations: Salvation Army: Sierra Del Mar Division Donate Here American Red Cross of San Diego/Imperial County Donate Here San Diego Fire Rescue Foundation Donate Here
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ACTION PLAN
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n Southern California, as recent wildfires have painfully demonstrated, emergencies can happen in an instant and get out of control just as quickly. Here is a way to prepare for emergencies you may encounter later: In California, wildfires aren't a question of IF, but only a question of WHEN. Any area is susceptible to fires and it's your responsibility to prepare yourself, your family, and your home. Cal Fire has an app to help prepare with three simple steps: READY, SET, GO!
Download the app HERE SILICON BEACH MAGAZINE
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INSIDE WESTSIDE NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL
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e enjoyed a visual example of what will come with the opening of the STEAM Academic Learning Center at the 5th grade Robotics and Technology Showcase event on Dec. 7. Head of School at WNS Bradley Zacuto was beyond pleased with the students’ talents and with the use of the new venue. “What I dreamed and envisioned over the last 4 years came to fruition at the Robotics Showcase. Seeing 5th graders so engaged in design thinking, collaborative planning & delivering multimedia presentations, high level problem solving, & programming and showcasing their lego robots. They consumed the entire space with this exhibition which was a sight to behold!”
With great excitement, Westside Neighborhood School (WNS) opened a brand-new state-of-the-art play-based preschool, STEAM Academic Learning Center, and full-sized Gymnasium in August 2017. Students, teachers, parents, and our neighboring businesses and friends are thrilled about the expansion as it not only allows more room for educational growth, but opportunities for community use as well.
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n the north side of the new facility is a separate space for the Reggio-inspired preschool program, consisting with three ageonsistent with the based sections for children Tri-Campus vision, ranging from 2 years, 9 WNS continues to encourage its students months to 5 years of age dispersed throughout six to adapt an state-of-the art classrooms. It entrepreneurial mindset. Our students embraces a play-based, childare capable of thinking centered philosophy taught by a highly knowledgeable differently, willing to and experienced early take intellectual risks, childhood faculty and staff. and able to see WNS preschoolers are viewed possibilities where as innovators and co-creators others just saw problems or stumbling of their own learning! blocks. Entrepreneurs require a growth and or over 36 years, Westside maker mindset that Neighborhood School (WNS), allows them to think and act differently, are a Preschool-8 independent school in Playa Vista, has a solution oriented, mission is to create a flexible thinkers, and have the social skills to community of lifelong learners that nurtures build networks, facilitate collaboration, students from diverse backgrounds to reach their and navigate a range full potential and inspires of social dynamics. them to contribute to the For more information, world with confidence, please visit www.wnsk8. creativity, curiosity, com or call 310 574 8650 or Email: conscience and compassion.
C
F
admissions@wnsk8.
HOW TO START THE NEW YEAR WITH A CLEAN SLATE
6 WAYS TO DE-CLUTTER
YOUR STUFF
YOUR STYLE 24
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"Home" means something different to everyone, but aside from just the basic needs (clothes/toothbrush/laptop) your "stuff" defines who you are. A fancy rug. A piece of art you love. Some small piece of furniture -- there's no reason to be surrounded by things that don't work, that you don't need, or that you don't even like.
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verything you own should have value, either because it's functional or beautiful or you just love it. Remember the question of what you'd grab if your house were on fire; that's your baseline for determining an object's worth.
OVERLOADED WITH OLD BOOKS, CDS + DVDS
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B
e sure to address your books, CDs, DVDs and other entertainment by donating or selling anything that is no longer a staple in your collection. If you can convert your music and movies to digital format, you can free up a lot of valuable real estate in your family room without having to part with something you would otherwise keep. Get rid of any broken or unused toys, tchotchkes, remote controls and anything else that has lost its usefulness.
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our kitchen is a food preparation area, not a storage space. The idea here is to weed out what you're not using, then put similar items together and in the best places.
OLD SPICES
THE CRAMMED KITCHEN
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ost ground spices should be replaced after 12 months. A simple test? Give each one a wiff. If there's no scent, there will be no flavor. Go ahead & toss it!
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CHEF STAND
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Chef Stand is an ideal accessory for chefs who keep recipes on their tablet device. Designed for use in home kitchens, this stand fits neatly on your countertop and allows for several viewing orientations so it's easy to watch your favorite cooking channel or any other show while you're in the kitchen. It also comes with a magnetic-tipped stylus, which lets you use your tablet's touchscreen even when your hands are messy.
igitize your user manuals to greatly reduce clutter, keep them close at hand on a smartphone, tablet, or computer and declutter recipes, starting with loose recipes and cards, and those in recipe binders into folders on your mobile devices. SILICON BEACH MAGAZINE
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DECLUTTER YOUR CLOSET FROM THE BOTTOM UP
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our instinct will be to start from the top with the things that are hanging, but cleaning up and cleaning out the mess at the bottom of the closet is the better way to go. Not only will you free up space in which to work, but you will feel like you’re halfway done in no time!
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OLD SHOES AND SOCKS
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et rid of any shoes that are broken beyond repair, worn out or missing a mate. Can't remember the last time you wore a still-good pair? Donate to a thrift store.
Socks Without a Mate We all have that bag of socks without their, ahem, sole mate. If you've done a full round of laundry without finding their partner, it's time to let them go.
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CLOTHING YOU'VE NEVER WORN Donate or sell any items of clothing you've had for more than a year without
6 The 80/20 Rule: When it comes to clothing, we generally only wear 20 percent of the clothes we own 80 percent of the time. This rule tends to hold true for other things as well, such as video games, computer parts, books, DVDs, toys and more. Your mission is to get rid of the things you don’t use 80 percent of the time.
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EAT/DRINK
SOFRITAS PARTY
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ere's a go-to guide {including recipes} for creating the ultimate SOFRITAS, with Vegan option (inspired from The Rustin Vegan!) A taco night is easy to organize ahead of time and effortless to serve. Just set out the various ingredients buffet style and make a last-minute bowl of guacamole.
INGREDIENTS 1 block firm tofu ¼ cup cornstarch 1-2 cups vegetable oil 1 bell pepper (any color) 1-2 Roma tomatoes ½ jalapeno, seeded
½ cup onion 3-4 cloves garlic ½ tsp smoked paprika ½ tsp onion powder ½ tsp garlic powder 1 tsp salt 1 tsp cumin
INSTRUCTIONS First, drain water from tofu. Drain all the water from the package, wrap the tofu in a few paper towels and place between two plates, and top with a heavy object. Drain until tofu is firm and does not leach water when squeezed. Cut the tofu into 1" cubes, and toss with the cornstarch.
In a blender, combine the bell pepper, tomatoes, jalapeño, onion, and garlic for the sofritas, and blend until smooth. Add in the seasonings.
Heat the vegetable oil in a medium pot until it shimmers. Add in the tofu cubes a few at a time, and fry until golden brown and crisp. Place on a paper towel to drain. When cool enough to handle, chop into tiny pieces.
In a medium nonstick pot, pour in the blended mixture and the tofu pieces. Heat on to medium-low, and simmer until vegetables have cooked through and sauce has reduced a bit. Add more seasoning if needed. CHIPOTLE LIME CREMA recipe FRESH PURPLE TORTILLA recipe
A New Year's Eve or Day DIY Taco Party Margaritas Included The most fabulous "Build Your Own" food bar also happens to make the perfect centerpiece for a stay-at-home party. Let guests mix and match fillings & toppings, pour the margaritas, put on the Mexican cumbia music, and let the fiesta begin!
MAY YOUR SPIRITS BE BRIGHT
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n addition to your Make Your Own “SOFRITAS� Bar, you will also have thirsty guests.
EAT/DRINK
These SPICED MULLED WINE MARGARITAS are so fun, festive, and unique. This favorite holiday beverage has complex flavors and warms the soul. The ultimate Holiday cocktail.
INGREDIENTS
remove from heat. Heat a dutch oven or stockpot over low 4 whole cloves heat. Add the wine, 8 whole black agave, brown sugar, peppercorns cider, juice, liqueur, 8 whole allspice tequila, orange 3 cinnamon sticks slices, and toasted 1 bottle Malbec spices into the pot wine 1/4 cup agave syrup and stir to combine. 1/2 cup dark brown Simmer, covered, sugar 2 cups spiced apple for at least an hour. Strain the mixture cider and return to the 1/4 cup OJ pot without the 1/4 cup Triplesec spices. 1/4 cup Tequila 1 large orange, Serve in glasses sliced (plus more rimmed with a for garnish) mixture of sea salt, sea salt, sugar, and sugar, and orange orange zest for zest and garnish garnish. with a fresh orange INSTRUCTIONS slice and cinnamon stick. Heat cloves, peppercorns, Enjoy! allspice, and cinnamon sticks in a skillet over medium heat. Allow to heat and crackle, but do not burn. When the aroma is fragrant,
SPICED MULLED WINE MARGARITAS
Sights of th
he Season
310-838-3300
New Customers Only. Participating locations only. Some restrictions may apply. Offer expires 12/31/17
Molly Maid of Playa Vista
The year 2018 absolutely buzzes with energy. There may be some anxiety, too - there always is - but that's just part of being overly energetic. More focus and a better sense of direction are all you need to put all that spectacular energy to good use. Find out what you need to know about this year!
2018 ASTROLOGY FORECAST
Aries Mar 21 - Apr 19 What does 2018 have in store for you, powerful Aries? It looks like you can expect some instability and turbulence coupled with growth, which isn’t a bad combo for a sign that’s known for persevering no matter what!
Taurus Apr 20 - May 20 When you look to the year ahead, Taurus, one thing is for certain: you want to conquer your own personal realm - and maybe the rest of world. You’ll stop at nothing to reach your goals.
TAP on Your Sign For Full Forecast
Gemini May 21 - Jun 20
Cancer Jun 21 - Jul 22
Let’s face it, Gemini, you’re the chatterbox of the zodiac. You have an incredible way with words, and you aren’t afraid to speak your mind. Communication issues will be in focus for most of 2018.
Your soft, emotional core is what defines you, Cancer, but 2018 is full of opportunities to let the world know they shouldn’t mess with your tough exterior! When the dazzling sun enters your sign at the end of June, give yourself permission to let go of past hurts.
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Leo Jul 23 - Aug 22
Virgo Aug 23 - Sep 22
With the brilliant, shining sun as your ruler, Leo, you live for attention and love the limelight. However, showing the world that you’ve got substance to add to your style will be your big challenge in 2018.
A practical, almost rigid person at times, you need to find the balance between work and play. And there will be plenty of opportunities to do that in 2018 if you don’t shrug them off as nonsense, Virgo.
TAP on Your Sign For Full Forecast
Libra Sep 23 - Oct 22 You like to live life in a balanced way, Libra, doing it with as much grace and poise as possible. Luckily for you, 2018 offers you many opportunities to inject your unique sense of charm.
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Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21 Anyone who knows you well knows that you hold your cards close to your chest, Scorpio, and that isn’t likely to change in 2018. You can’t transform your basic nature (nor would you want to), but you can make improvements.
Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21
Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19
You look at life as one big adventure, Sagittarius, and you could reach new heights (perhaps quite literally) in 2018. In between circumnavigating the globe, however, use your downtime to reflect on what your nomadic experiences have taught you.
Your best life contains structure, discipline, and a whole lot of hard work. When what you put into a situation pays off, you couldn’t be happier. If you continue to strive for what you want in 2018, Capricorn, there’s very little you can’t achieve.
TAP on Your Sign For Full Forecast
Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18
Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20
Your quirky, endearing personality makes you a popular invitee to parties and events, Aquarius, but you tend to take potential personal connections lightly. One of your tasks for 2018 is to go a bit deeper emotionally.
You’re a compassionate sign, Pisces, always doing for others and rarely taking time for yourself. Make 2018 the Year of You, because you deserve to be treated with the same level of care and consideration as you treat everyone else!
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