Author: Rodeo Realty Media Team

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Out and About: Ojai Edition

In California, zen is pronounced “oh-hi.” Located in the Ventura Valley, this town of roughly 7,500 people has long been a destination for burned-out Angelinos seeking renewal. Casual travelers and day-trippers need not be discouraged by Ojai’s reputation as a mystical hotspot. Even if you’re not in the mood for something as ambitious as enlightenment at a retreat, there is an abundance of pleasures to seek out – from fresh produce to glorious hikes to close encounters with nature. As for the origins of the town’s name, “Ojai” means “nest” in the Chumash language. In other words, once you’re here, you may never want to leave.

Morning

Ojai Certified Farmers Market

There is no better place to begin exploring Ojai than this favorite hub of visitors and locals alike. An outdoor event that takes place Sundays year-round, the Farmer’s Market is located behind the Arcade in downtown. You may come for the organic food – and you will find everything from jams to beeswax to fresh seafood – but you’ll likely be just as delighted by the atmosphere and all-around vibe. Vendors include such local mainstays as Ojai Olive Oil. The prime location also makes it simple enough to move on from the market to the rest of the town.

Boutique shopping

Without a box store or franchise chain in sight, Ojai’s downtown instead spotlights fine art, clothing, hand-crafted jewelry, and home furnishings in more than 50 specialty shops and galleries. Browse the shelves of Bart’s Books, the largest independent outdoor bookstore in the country, or drop by Primavera Gallery to peruse its collections of fine artwork.

Ojai Valley Museum of History and Art

Looking to explore not merely Ojai’s shopping and markets, but its unique past? For that, head to this former Catholic church, which houses historical artifacts, photographs, exhibits as well as local contemporary art. The former St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, which was included on the National Register of Historic Places in 1995, became the museum’s home in 1996.

Azu Restaurant & Bar

Ojai grows a lot more than just olives and lemons. One example? The Ojai Valley Brewery uses local ingredients like sage and pear to produce its lineup of beers. At Azu Restaurant & Bar, the brewery has a taproom where you can sample what’s on draft. Moreover, some of their ales and lagers are now bottled, meaning you can take a taste of Ojai back with you.

Afternoon

Ojai Meadows Preserve

In addition to sheer beauty, this protected meadows and wetlands area boasts plenty of hiking and a plant nursery. The land protection non-profit Ojai Valley Land Conservancy manages close to 2,300 acres. Of this, 2,000 acres are free for the public to enjoy.

Beekeeping at the Ojai Valley Inn

Get some face time without being stung. This 90-minute beekeeping tour at Ojai Valley Inn lets you don a protective suit, including the requisite hat, face screen, and gloves, before showing you the ins and outs of honey production. If that wasn’t appealing enough, the tour naturally includes a tasting of jars of honey from around the county.

Ojai Bike Trail

One side of the nine-mile Ojai Valley Trail is paved for joggers, bicyclists, and dog walkers. On the other side of a fence is a dirt path used for horseback riding. Meanwhile, the Ojai-Ventura Bike Path traverses 15 miles and is ideal for casual walkers, runners and mountain bikers.

Gray Whale Watching

If you’re up for an excursion off the land, a 30-minute drive from Ojai will take you to Ventura Harbour, where Island Packers Gray Whale Watching departs from. The three-hour-plus cruise promises to bring you up close to various marine mammals – not only whales but other species such as dolphins – in the Santa Barbara Channel.

Evening

Casa Barranca Tasting Room

Located in downtown Ojai, Casa Barranca prides itself on having been the first certified organic winery in the Santa Barbara region. Now almost two decades later, it produces more than 5,000 cases of wines, from reds to whites to roses, all from organic grapes.

Dining at the Vine

After a day (or a few days) exploring all that Ojai has to enjoy, settle in for dinner at The Vine, which features live music six nights a week. The exception is Thursdays, which instead offers music as well as a spoken word performance. The dinner menu includes tapas, salads, tortillas, and quesadillas. For a late-night treat, try the bacon-wrapped dates or baked brie.

 

 

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Home Tips: Moving in Together

The advice columnist Ann Landers once noted, “All marriages are happy, it’s the living together that’s tough.” Or to quote Bill Murray in Ghostbusters, “Human sacrifice! Dogs and cats living together! Mass hysteria!” Of course, every relationship has its own dynamics. The challenges two people face when combining lives and households are uniquely theirs. That said, here are a few general tips for when the big move-in day comes. Shockingly, they might even end up bringing you closer together.

EMBRACE THE DOWNSIZING

Just accept it: some things are going to have to go. How to make that a positive experience? First, you can involve your partner in the decision-making process. Who knows? They might agree to put some things in storage if you are super-nice about it. As for the things that have to go? Donate them to charity, where they can do some good. But don’t be a push-over either. Decide on “must-haves” that are staying, no matter what. Make your stand.

DIVIDE AND CONQUER THE CLOSET

A little inventiveness can help defuse the potential conflicts that come with a shared closet. That’s especially important in small quarters. Divide the space equally, then use such organizational hacks as boxes and riders to store your clothes.

PLAN YOUR ESCAPE

Whether you call it a “man cave” or a “she shed,” we all need a place where we can decompress and escape the world – and everyone else in it. So plant your flag in the unfinished basement or the overgrown backyard or even in that spot by the window in the home office. Just don’t resent it when your partner tells you they want a corner to call their own, too.

MAXIMIZE SPACE

If you’re still feeling crammed after your mutual purging, deploy any number of tricks to make your living space seem more spacious than it is. These include hanging window treatments higher than the window frame, even to the ceiling. Decorate in light colors. And invest in furniture – ottomans, and benches, for example – that can double as clutter-concealing storage containers.

BUY STUFF TOGETHER

After you have both settled into your new living arrangements, take time to shop. Decide on items that appeal to both of you. Even small household items like blenders, toasters, and microwaves can define a shared personal style. For big-ticket items like appliances and living room furniture, go exploring online first before making any decision. The last thing you want to do is buy something you both (or worse, one of you) regrets later.

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Weekend Events: January 31st – February 2nd

In the mood for classic rock? A timeless crooner? Or puppies tossing a pigskin around? We have the bowls, the balls and the bashes you can check out, whether you’re in Los Angeles and the Westside or throughout the San Fernando, Conejo, and Santa Clarita Valleys.

Los Angeles and the Westside 

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31st, 2020

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Portland Trail Blazers

LOCATION: STAPLES Center

As Los Angeles and the world continues to mourn the death of Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna, the Lakers are set to take the court at Staples Center to host the Portland Trail Blazers. Expect an all-star tribute celebrating the NBA legend. For more information go HERE.

Slander

LOCATION: Shrine Expo Hall, 665 W Jefferson Blvd, Los Angeles

Veteran DJs and dance music producers Derek Andersen and Scott Land a.k.a. Slander bring their unique sound, which inspired its own subgenre called “Heaven Trap,” to the Shrine Expo Hall. For ticket information go HERE.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1st, 2020

Chinese New Year Festival

LOCATION: The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens, 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino

Two days of festivities kick off Saturday and run through Sunday, marking the arrival of the Year of the Rat. Look for lion dancers, martial artists, and mask-changers among the events and activities set to celebrate Chinese music and culture. Most of the family-friendly fun will take place in and around the Huntington’s Chinese Garden. Details are HERE.

The Fabulously Funny Comedy Festival: Mike Epps, Sommore, Gary Owen, Lavell Crawford, Tommy Davidson

LOCATION: Microsoft Theater, 777 Chick Hearn Court, Los Angeles

Comedian Mike Epps brings The Fabulously Funny Comedy Festival to LALive, leading an A-list line-up that includes Tommy Davidson and Sommore. Epps can currently be seen on Netflix’s Dolemite Is My Name starring opposite Eddie Murphy. The streamer released his last stand-up special, Mike Epps: Only One Mike last year. For tickets, go HERE.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2nd, 2020

Tony Bennett

LOCATION: Terrace Theater – Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center, 300 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach

Will 93-year-old Tony Bennett ever retire? Considering the Grammy-winning jazz vocalist, who teamed with Lady Gaga in 2014 to produce the album Cheek to Cheek, has sold more than 10 million records over the past decade, why would he? Find tickets HERE.

Puppy Bowl

LOCATION: Common Space Brewery, 3411 W El Segundo Blvd, Hawthorne

Ahead of Sunday’s match-up between the 49ers and the Chiefs, sign up your pup for the first annual Common Space Puppy Bowl. Two seven-dog teams will go head to head for this 30-minute long game. Kick-off is 12:15 p.m. The victorious team claims beer for their owners. To sign up your pup, go HERE.

Conejo Valley

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31st, 2020

You Can’t Take It With You

LOCATION: Conejo Players Theatre, 351 South Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks

This weekend marks the last chance to check out this production of the classic farce about the seemingly oddball Sycamore family and the much saner, and much more miserable, Kirby clan. The play won the 1937 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. For more information, go HERE.

Saturday, february 1st, 2020

Conejo Valley Cars and Coffee

LOCATION: Old New York Deli & Bakery, 6209 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills

For the past five years, this informal gathering has been bringing together car buffs for hot coffee and hotter wheels. Admission is free. Things get started at 7 a.m. on the first and third Saturday of every month. It’s a can’t-miss for any classic car lover. Learn more HERE.

Malibu Hindu Temple Tour (Cultural and Foodie Tour)

LOCATION: Malibu Hindu Temple, 1600 Las Virgenes Canyon Road, Calabasas

Will taking this tour of the magnificent Malibu Hindu Temple bring about inner peace? It’s not out of the question since, in addition to an exploration of the complex’s cultural and historical importance, it includes 10 minutes of meditation. For more information, go HERE.

sunday, february 2nd, 2020

First Sunday Electric Bike Ride

LOCATION: Pedego 101 Electric Bikes, 31332 Via Colinas Ste 107, Westlake Village

For Pedego owners or simply the e-bike curious, this monthly group ride takes participants for a scenic spin around Thousand Oaks, Hidden Valley, Agoura Hills, Malibou Lake, Oak Park and Westlake Village. Rental rates are $25 if you don’t have an electric bike of your own. If this is your first time, make sure to be at the shop by 2:30 p.m. For more information go HERE.

127, D&B Thousand Oaks – Big Game Watch Party 2020

LOCATION: Dave & Buster’s, 145 W Hillcrest Dr., 130 Thousand Oaks

If the screen in your home doesn’t feel like it will measure up to the Super Bowl, you might want to consider heading to Dave & Buster’s Thousand Oaks for Sunday’s game. A $46 VIP ticket puts you in a prime viewing spot, along with all-you-can-eat wings, among other extras. Learn more HERE.

San Fernando Valley

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31st, 2020

The Hollywood Show

LOCATION: Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport Hotel, 2500 North Hollywood Way, Burbank

Drop in and have your photo taken with your favorite celebrity. Stars attending the first day of this two-day get-together between the famous and their followers include cast members from The Sopranos, Battlestar Galactica, Leave it to Beaver and Back to the Future, as well as X-Men actress Kelly Hu and Hollywood veteran Lorenzo Lamas. Learn more HERE.

Saturday, february 1st, 2020

Wine Blending Class

LOCATION: Urban Press Winery, 316 North San Fernando, Burbank

Stop pouring and start blending. This class offers any wine drinker the chance to become a wine maker. After students learn a little about the grape – including a tasting of individual blends – they will have the chance to put a cork in one to call their own. Learn more HERE.

Rob Scheider

LOCATION: Flappers Comedy Club, Burbank, 102 E Magnolia Blvd, Burbank

Saturday Night Live veteran, Emmy-winning comedy writer and Adam Sandler movie stalwart Rob Schneider (Grown Ups, You Don’t Mess with the Zohan) brings his stand-up act to the stage. The show gets under way at 9:30 p.m. For tickets, go HERE.

sunday, february 2nd, 2020

“Drink, Paint, Create”: Wine and Art Night

LOCATION: Jalapeno Pete’s, 11618 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City

The name says it all. Order a drink and pick up a brush. Two hours later, you’ll have a finished painting. They supply the wine, the art supplies and the instructions. Learn more HERE.

Sunday Runs

LOCATION: Wildflower Playfields, 635 W. Avenida de los Arboles, Thousand Oaks

Fast or slow, the Thousand Oaks Racers welcome you to lace up. The only criteria? You’d like to have some friends to run with. And if you’ve never run before, or were injured, they will ensure you accelerate at your own safe speed. Expect the event, which kicks off at 7:30 a.m., to draw about two-dozen pairs of feet. Learn more HERE.

Santa Clarita Valley

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31st, 2020

Jefferson Starship

LOCATION: The Canyon Santa Clarita, 24201 West Valencia Blvd., #1351, Santa Clarita

You may have heard they built this city on rock and roll. Through the 1970s and ‘80s, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Jefferson Starship, which began as Jefferson Airplane in the 1960s, enjoyed a string of gold albums, hit songs and global fame. Get tickets HERE.

saturday, february 1st, 2020

The Tree’s Dream

LOCATION: The MAIN, 24266 Main St., Santa Clarita

Presented by The Elephantoms Puppet Theater, The Tree’s Dream is a show unlike anything you’ve seen before. Doors open 30 minutes prior to show time. For more information, go HERE.

Led Zepagain

LOCATION: The Canyon – Santa Clarita, Westfield Valencia Town Center, 24201 West Valencia Blvd., Suite 1351, Santa Clarita

If you never saw the real thing and Greta Van Fleet doesn’t measure up for you, tribute band Led Zepagain may be your stairway to classic rock heaven. Vocalist Swan Montgomery is Robert Plant, guitarist Anthony David Thymiakos is Jimmy Page, bassist/keyboardist Jim Wootten is John Paul Jones and drummer Derek Smith is John Bonham. Get tickets HERE.

sunday, february 2nd, 2020

Super Bowl Sunday Cook Off

LOCATION: Agua Dulce Winery 9640 Sierra Hwy, Santa Clarita

Bring your “go-to” appetizer to this annual Tailgating Appetizer Cook-Off. Hot dogs will be served aplenty. The event runs from 2 to 5 p.m. For more information, go HERE.

Trapt

LOCATION: The Canyon Santa Clarita, 24201 West Valencia Blvd., #1351, Santa Clarita

Hard rockers Trapt, who broke through with their 2003 hit Headstrong, perform live. For tickets and more information, go HERE.

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Rodeo News: Syd Leibovitch Recognized in Swanepoel Power 200

The 2020 Swanepoel Power 200 list is out and Rodeo Realty’s President, Syd Leibovitch, is once again recognized. Year after year, Syd has been recognized as one of the most powerful people in the residential real estate brokerage industry.

Out of hundreds who were considered, Syd was one of 200 who made it onto the SP200 list.

“The SP200 is based on a great deal of research,” said Stefan Swanepoel, Editor-in-Chief of the Swanepoel Power 200. “We send hundreds of requests for additional information, personally verifying announcements, stats, and actions that took place over the past year.”

The 2020 SP200 ranks Syd Leibovitch at #113 among the 200 recognized.

“Leibovitch founded Rodeo Realty in 1986 and today heads it as one of the nation’s largest brokerages. The company has 12 offices across Los Angeles and Ventura counties with 1,223 agents who do over $4.9 billion in annual sales.” said the SP200.

 

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LA Eats: For Vegans and the Vegan-Curious

The plant is having a moment. From the Impossible Burger to Beyond Meat, plant-based protein is sweeping menus and diets alike – a trend expected to only grow in 2020. Fortunately for locals, Los Angeles, the Westside and the Valleys offer no shortage of delicious culinary options for long-time vegans and the vegan-curious alike.

Los Angeles and Westside

Un Solo Sol

1818 E 1st Street, Los Angeles, CA 

This plant-based spot sits across from Mariachi Plaza in Boyle Heights. The atmosphere and downtown location are as flavorful as the food, which ranges from nopales salad and potato or chicken taquitos to the Mushroom and Cheese Pupusa Plate and fajitas with organic tofu. Plus, don’t forget the black beans and rice!

Green Table Cafe

5998 W. Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 

Formerly known as Real Raw Vegan, this eatery specializes in vegan Italian dishes. Start off with one of their signature juices such as the Bella Vespa (orange, carrot, ginger, cayenne, lemon and aloe vera). Then bite into their B…Special Panini (sautéed baby mushrooms, red bell pepper, eggplant, olives, sliced avocado with in-house almond cream cheese and Thousand Island sauce) or a Spinach Artichoke Melt (vegan sausage, marinated artichoke hearts, vegan cream cheese, spinach, garlic and olive oil on a toasted garlic bun). In the mood for pasta? Lasagna options are eggplant, zucchini, cauliflower or polenta. Lastly, their plant-based dessert list includes banana nut muffins and oatmeal cranberry cookies.

Monty’s Good Burger

516 S Western Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 

Describing itself as “for carnivores who care about the environment,” Monty’s has locations in Echo Park (1533 W Sunset Blvd), Riverside (3605 Market St.) and this spot in Koreatown. Have your burger, featuring the plant-based Impossible patty, with shoestring fries or a chopped kale Caesar salad, then wash it down with an organic craft soda.

Seabirds Kitchen

975 E 4th Street, Long Beach, CA 

In 10 years, Seabirds has expanded from a food truck to three spots, including this Long Beach location. Sample a beer-battered avo taco (fried avocado, Seabirds sauce, cabbage, red onion, lime) before moving onto a Beets Me Burger (house-made shiitake, beet and chia patty) or the Jackfruit Nachos.

Pura Vita 

8274 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 

The first completely plant-based Italian restaurant in the country, Pura Vita marries New York City wine bar atmosphere with Southern Italian cuisine. Plant-based dishes range from the Giambotta (Calabrian vegetable stew, macadamia Parmigiano and grilled ciabatta) to the Caprese (house-made cashew mozzarella, heirloom tomato, basil, and balsamic reduction) to the Linguine di Mare (garlic white wine sauce, king oyster mushroom scallops, and toasted breadcrumbs).

San Fernando Valley

Vinh Loi Tofu

18625 Sherman Way, Reseda, CA 

We could tell you what’s on the menu of this Vietnamese vegan eatery, but as customers know, owner Kevin Tran might as easily cook up something especially for you. Just tell him what you’re craving. For folks with trust issues, the menu offers such favorites as the Tofu Robot Soup.

Sun Cafe

10820 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City, CA 

They don’t just serve vegan dishes like the Zucchini Lasagna (zucchini slices layered with walnut pesto, spinach, cashew ricotta, SunChorizo, marinara, and cashew cheese) or the Tempeh Stir Fry (cauliflower, zucchini, bok choy, and carrots, in pineapple chili, teriyaki tempeh and lime juice), but they’ll teach you how to cook it yourself. A 90-minute vegan cooking class happens every Saturday morning at 9 a.m., except on some holidays. Cost is $40 at the door.

Follow Your Heart

21825 Sherman Way, Canoga Park, CA

What began in 1970 as a seven-seat, vegetarian food bar now offers both a full vegan menu and an SOS menu, which means “no Salt, no Oil, and no Sugar.” SOS selections range from the White Bean Kale Burger (patty made from kale, brown rice, white beans and oats) to the Super Green Pasta (zucchini noodles, served with steamed kale, spinach, broccoli, and white beans).

Conejo Valley

Norte-Sur Mexican Grill

2950 Johnson Drive, Ventura County, CA 

Located just off the 101 freeway in Ventura, Norte-Sur’s owners are as proud of their home-made salsas and Aguas Frescas as they are their Mexican vegan cuisine. Have a soft taco or sizzling fajita with their gluten-free vegan soyrizo, for example. Or order their vegan mole taquitos, rolled with mole-mashed potatoes, cabbage, and pico.

Hip Vegan

201 N. Montgomery Street, Ojai, CA

Expect fresh vegan cuisine and a laid-back atmosphere befitting Ojai. If you’re feeling like something light, there are wraps, sandwiches, bowls and salads. If you’re hungry for food that’s more filling, try the veggie pasta with garbanzo bean meatballs.

Karma Baker

1145 Lindero Canyon Road, Ste D3, Westlake Village, CA 

Skip the meal and go straight to organic, kosher, vegan and gluten-free desserts. Their not-so-guilty pleasures range from pastries and custom-made cakes to hot pockets and hand pies.

Santa Clarita 

Thai Chefs Restaurant

28014 Seco Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA

 

Thai Chefs owner has cooked traditional Thai cuisine for more than two decades, first at a restaurant in Thailand. This family-restaurant offers several vegan options for some of its most popular dishes, including the stir-fried chicken and yellow curry with coconut milk, potatoes, carrot, and onion.

Manoushee Mediterranean Restaurant

27131 Sierra Hwy #100, Santa Clarita, CA 

Among such traditional Mediterranean plates as shawarma are several vegan options. The Lebanese Hash Falafel, for example, features patata harra (or spicy potatoes) on lettuce and tomato, and your choice of protein. An extra portion of falafel can be substituted for the fried egg that usually tops the dish. If you have stew in mind, they have an Egyptian Fava Bean Stew served with lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. And for dessert, try the vegan carrot cake.

Tomato Joe’s Pizza Express

27732 McBean Pkwy, Valencia, CA 

Hankering for a vegan pizza with a beer-battered crust? Tomato Joe’s provides no shortage of mix-and-match options. And if you’re not hungry for a slice, sample their vegan meatballs, with melted vegan mozzarella, and served with vegan garlic bread. Tomato Joe’s also has a second Santa Clarita location at 19167 Golden Valley Rd.

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Tech News: How AI Can Help Humanity

Whether it’s from watching humans being hunted by terminators or ensnared in the Matrix, many have been programmed to fear the machines of the future. And it’s not only science fiction creators sounding alarms. Most recently,  Google CEO Sundar Pichai issued a red alert, coming out in favor of strictly regulating the new technology. This echoes similar warnings from Elon Musk and Stephen Hawking.

But is AI really all doom and gloom? In fact, there are several ways in which AI could potentially benefit humanity, rather than harming or obliterating it. If you’re not exactly sure what AI is, it essentially describes machines that think and act as well as humans. Applied AI is already here, enabling Internet searches, for example. The next advancement is called artificial general intelligence, which will allow systems to do anything a person can do.

Before you despair that your phone will soon make you its pet, let’s break down some of the areas in which AI could improve all our lives.

Global Epidemics

During an outbreak, every second counts. Which makes AI uniquely suited to identifying hot zones and helping health officials get ahead of a virus. At the outset of the coronavirus crisis, for example, a Canadian monitoring platform, Bluedot, was the first to identify the outbreak, using an AI algorithm that scans news reports and airline ticketing data to track diseases. Bluedot had already predicted the location of the Zika outbreak in South Florida.

Medicine

The potential benefits are here obvious: faster and more accurate diagnosis, as well as more targeted medical treatment. AI may also bring medical knowledge and treatment to populations with limited access to health care. Currently, AI informs Radiosurgery, which helps surgeons operate on tumors without making an incision.

Quality of Life

AI can make life simpler and easier by freeing people from tedious tasks, say its proponents. As an example, they point to the financial sector and how AI applications have made banking faster and simpler for everyone.

Weather Forecasting

AI has been critical to climate forecasting and the area of Climate Informatics. And new data-powered models are helping forecasters track and identify severe storms more accurately before they strike.

Disaster response

In addition to improving and powering early-warning systems as well as identifying areas of vulnerability, AI algorithms can be used to simulate conditions, improving disaster preparation plans and leading to more effective, life-saving response strategies. This could prove especially useful in California, considering the threat of wildfires and earthquakes.

Exploration

As humans push further to explore not only hostile areas of our planet, but space itself, AI and robotics will be critical to traveling to environments where people can’t survive.

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Out and About: Oak Glen Edition

For urban dwellers ripe for a change of scenery, Oak Glen represents the perfect rural respite. Imagine orchards instead of freeways. Picture serene nature trails that remain gloriously unpaved. Nestled in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, this small agricultural community offers an abundance of pleasures, ideal for a day trip. Or make it a few days. Complete with cider.

Morning

Riley’s Farm

This working apple orchard offers much more than the chance to pick your own fruit. It also stages educational historical tours, based on such events as the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Activities do vary depending on the season, and the farm is closed Sundays, so be sure to check their site ahead of time before firming up plans.

Oak Tree Village Oak Glen

Among the shops and vendors of this family destination is Apple Annie’s Restaurant, famed for its five-pound “Mile-High Apple Pie.” Additionally, there’s an animal park, a petting zoo (with baby animals for your kids to bottle feed), pony rides and trout ponds. Be sure to check out what seasonal events Oak Tree Village has available for families.

 Moms Country Orchards

Ten miles off the I-10, east of Redlands and Yucaipa and north of Beaumont and Cherry Valley, Moms Country Orchards is open year-round, with the exception of Christmas Day. On top of the produce, you can have your pick of its wide selection of honey, jellies, and jams.

Oak Glen Preserve and Southern California Montane Botanic Garden

Once you’ve sampled the local produce, you may be in the mood for a hike or picnic. Look no further than this 909-acre preserve, where you will find the Conservancy’s Southern California Montane Botanic Garden and Children’s Outdoor Discovery Center. Best of all: it’s open to the public, free of charge.

Afternoon

Greenspot Farm

Getting hitched for a hayride or for the rest of your life? In addition to offering everything from school tours to horseback riding lessons, Greenspot also bills itself as a perfect wedding venue. Depending on what time of the year you drop in, you can find a pumpkin patch and haunted hayride at Halloween or a tractor ride through a Christmas farm.

Yucaipa Regional Park

Boasting views of the San Bernardino Mountains, this park features fishing, water slides and activities that run year-round. The beach area is open Memorial Day through Labor Day, so be sure to check out their schedule for details if you’re planning ahead.

Parrish Pioneer Ranch

Open year-round, but closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays from December to August, Parrish Pioneer Ranch is another scenic mainstay. In addition to the picnic area, the main barn includes shops where you can browse for antiques, décor and even vintage toys.

Evening

Nostalgia Furniture and Decor

As you wind down from a day of nature trails and other activities, why not drop into this antique shop, located five miles from the Village at Oak Glen in the foothills community of Yucaipa? Known for its vintage home furnishings and décor, it’s sure to offer a discovery or two.

Yucaipa Performing Arts Center

Lastly, before you call it a day, consider taking in a show at the Yucaipa Performing Arts Center with its large outdoor stage. Located about five miles from the Village at Oak Glen, it’s close to restaurants and shops, potentially making for a perfect evening out with friends and family.

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Home Tips: Brighten The Mood During Winter

Just because residents of the Los Angeles and the Valley don’t have to winterize their homes against ice storms and nor’easters doesn’t mean the season can’t take a toll. For one thing, nothing saps the soul like shortened, grey days – especially when you’re accustomed to the blazing sun and blue skies. With a few weeks of winter left, here are some simple steps you can take around the home to keep winter gloom at bay as we all await brighter days ahead.

COLOR CORRECT

Switching up the palette of your home – from the walls and furniture to the window coverings and artwork – is a sure-fire way to jolt you out of a wintery-funk. Try coordinating the color of the space with its function. For example, add bright reds or yellows to active rooms like the kitchen. Conversely, warm tones of green or blue in the bedroom should soothe you to sleep.

LIGHTEN THINGS UP

When sunlight is spare, make sure you make the most of it. Ditch dark window coverings and blinds for clear, pale ones, keeping them open for as long as possible. And when night falls early, flip a switch. Make sure you have enough lamps and internal lighting to illuminate your surroundings. Just because it’s dark outside doesn’t mean you have to live in darkness.

MAKE IT PERSONAL

While decluttering always feels satisfying, don’t store away the things you love. Instead, display them in prominent places where they can bring into focus what you’re most proud of and what you’ve accomplished in life. Cherished memories and possessions with sentimental value can generate positive feelings as powerfully as unvarnished sunlight.

TAKE A LOOK IN THE MIRROR

We all remember the question: “Mirror mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all?” But as a decorative choice, mirrors aren’t about vanity at all. Rather, they act to play tricks with light: reflecting what little there may be, as well as creating the illusion of greater space. You’d be surprised at how much brighter and bigger a room feels when you add a mirror to it.

EXPLORE WINDOWS

A little (or a lot of) glass cleaner can go a long way in illuminating your home. Wipe them down and watch the sunlight pour in without dirt, dust, and grime muddying the way.

POWER DOWN BEFORE YOU GO TO BED

Nothing makes you feel like you can tackle the world like a good night’s rest. One simple way to help you sleep? Keep the personal electronics out of the bedroom. (We said it was simple, not necessarily easy.) Embracing your sleeping space as a technology-free zone will let your mind unwind. And yes, that includes avoiding watching TV before your head hits the pillow.

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Weekend Events: January 24 – January 26

Grammy parties? Check. Fitness and beauty expos? Got them. Beer on the beach? And maybe a little Stephen King? Check, check and check. In other words, there is no shortage of culture, cuisines and the unexpected to check out this weekend in Los Angeles, the Westside, and throughout the San Fernando, Conejo, Santa Clarita, and San Gabriel Valleys.

Los Angeles 

FRIDAY, JANUARY 24, 2020

The SOIREE

LOCATION: The Hollywood Roosevelt Ballroom

It’s Grammy weekend in LA, meaning parties as much as music. This sixth annual gala, hosted simultaneously alongside the Grammy bashes happening ahead of Sunday’s ceremony, bills itself as a go-to event for music industry leaders, influencers and Recording Academy members. Along with celebrities and a red carpet, expect a menu that includes pan-seared crab cake and mini-burgers. Learn more HERE.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 25,, 2020

The LA Animation Film Festival

LOCATION: Let Live Theater

Celebrate the genre of animation during this event that brings together both fans and filmmakers. Categories include Feature, Short, TV Pilot, Web Series, and Sketch Comedy. The 80-seat venue boasts a Christie DLP projector and seven JBL speakers throughout. The festival kicks off Friday at 12 a.m. and runs until 11:59 p.m. on Saturday. Get tickets HERE.

The FitExpo

LOCATION: Los Angeles Convention Center 

Whether you’re a schlubby weekend warrior or a shredded power-lifter, there promises to be something for all body types at this family-friendly event. Look for free fitness classes, cooking demos, live fitness competitions, and a few fitness industry celebrities. FitExpo kicks off Saturday at 10 a.m. and runs until Sunday at 5 p.m. Learn more HERE.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 2020

Donut Festival

LOCATION: Indie Brewing Company

Mmm… donut festival. After FitExpo, what better way to reward yourself than dropping by this sugary palooza? LA’s self-described sweetest bash lets you try out the aforementioned donuts, as well as coffee and even beer. Every ticket includes 10 samples and every guest over the age of 21 gets a free beer drink ticket. Get tickets and information HERE.

Uncorked: LA Wine Fest

LOCATION: Union Station

Cheers to this new event from Uncorked Wine Festivals, featuring more than 100 wines rated 90 points and higher from around the world. Attendees can expect live music, gourmet food trucks and, of course, no shortage of fine vintages to sample. The early access ticket gets you an additional hour of tasting. Learn more HERE.

Westside

FRIDAY, JANUARY 24, 2020

Christine

LOCATION: Nuart Theatre

From It to Doctor Sleep to HBO’s The Outsider, Stephen King has never been more in-demand. So it’s a curiosity to consider 1983’s Christine, directed by John Carpenter (Halloween) about a bullied teenager and his lethally-protective car. The film disappointed when it was released, but it bears all the themes of classic King. It runs as part of the Nuart’s CineInsomnia series. Get tickets HERE.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 25, 2020

Juicy Brews Beach Party Craft Beer Festival 

LOCATION: Brouwerij West 110 E 22nd St Floor 1 San Pedro, CA 90731

In the mood for some tasty waves? Hop Culture Magazine’s beer festival will offer attendees music, lobster rolls and, yes, brews aplenty. All attendees must be 21. General admission gets you access to the festival at 1 p.m. Upon entering, you enter the land of unlimited samplings. Proceeds go to the Palos Verdes Land Conservancy. Get tickets HERE.

The International Salon and Spa Expo

LOCATION: Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center

All dolled up and nowhere to go? Or just looking for the hottest trends in personal care and make-up? Then check out the biggest beauty expo on the West Coast. ISSE boasts more than 200 classes by some of the industry’s top names. Learn from the best while enjoying the spa, pools and other outdoor activities. Get tickets HERE.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 2020

Goat Yoga

LOCATION: Laughing Frog Yoga

If you don’t know what goat yoga is, welcome to Los Angeles because you’re obviously not from around here. And, lucky for you, Laughing Frog Yoga has two baby goats, Gigi and Felix, ready to show you the ups and downs of this latest trend. Need a better incentive? Gigi and Felix are expected to retire soon, so this may your last chance to get a selfie with a pair (the last 30 minutes of this particular session have been set aside just for photos). Learn more HERE.

After-Grammys party

LOCATION: Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills

The show is over, so let the party begin. Following the red carpet, mix and mingle with Hollywood insiders while enjoying specialty cocktails, outdoor patio and indoor entertainment and a live DJ. General admission is free online, but you must be 21 to attend. Learn more HERE.

Conejo, San Fernando, Santa Clarita Valley

FRIDAY, JANUARY 24, 2020

The Little Mermaid, Jr.

LOCATION: The Performing Arts Education Center, 22855 Mulholland Highway, Calabasas

Before you see the live-action Disney remake, journey “under the sea” with this musical production about Ariel, a young mermaid in an impossible romance with a handsome prince. Notably, this version features flying effects by ZFX. Learn more HERE.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 25, 2020

Historic Walking Tour of North Hollywood

LOCATION: North Hollywood Amelia Earhart Regional Library

Once upon a time in Hollywood… this really happened. Cowboys, pioneers, movie stars and the conquests that made California what it is today. Highlights of the tour include the Academy of Arts and Entertainment and Lankershim Elementary School, which Marilyn Monroe attended. Learn more HERE.

The Dark Side of the San Fernando Valley

LOCATION: Valley Relics Museum

Today more than 45 museums throughout Southern California will waive the cost of admission for the entire day for free museum day. This three-hour bus tour departs the Valley Relics Museum, taking occupants on a journey including hauntings, crime scenes and hidden secrets that promises to make them never look at the valley the same way again. Learn more HERE.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 2020

Conejo Valley Youth Orchestra Presents “Tales From Russia”

LOCATION: Fred Kavli Theatre – B of A Performing Arts Center, Thousand Oaks

Music to warm the coldest Siberian heart. The Mighty Five, also known as the Mighty Handful, were a group of Russian composers united to try to start a national school of Russian music in the 1800s. Their pieces, as well as ones by Stravinsky and Tchaikovsky, will be presented by the Conejo Valley Youth Orchestra. Learn more HERE.

Sombrero Half Marathon, 5K and 10K

LOCATION: Rancho Simi Park at 1765 Royal Ave, Simi Valley CA

Watch racers dart along the tree-lined, scenic Arroyo bike path toward the ultimate finisher’s medal: post-race tacos for all. While the race should suit runners of all speeds, all are invited to join along in spirit, if not in actual stride. Learn more HERE.

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LA Eats: Brunch

On a gloomy winter weekend when there’s nothing more welcome than some drizzled-upon eggs benny and a refreshing mimosa (or two). Here are some top choices for brunch in Los Angeles and the Valley.

Los Angeles

Auburn

6703 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA

Considering chef Eric Bost’s fine-dining pedigree and the culinary raves that greeted its arrival, Auburn might seem an unlikely option for a decidedly laid back affair. One glance at the brunch menu suggests otherwise – whether it’s the Dutch Pancake with huckleberries and toasted hay cream, the Beef Ribs with black garlic glaze and torn herbs or the orange marmalade and granite Flan.

All Day Baby

3200 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026

For Eastsiders, this neighborhood eatery offers breakfast all day. Try the Big Chicken Biscuit (fried chicken breast, B&B pickles), Mama May’s Banana Bread (ricotta, whipped honey, buckwheat, sea salt) or the White Corn Grits (shrimp “bolognese,” fried egg, crispy leeks).

Caffe Latte

6254 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

Serving the Mid-Wilshire area for more than 30 years, Caffe Latte offers an ideal brunch stop if you’re near The Grove. While the menu includes waffles, pancakes, pastries (not to mention such brunch staples as Eggs Benedict with fresh cut fruit), it specializes in custom blend coffees, loose leaf tea, fruit smoothies, protein smoothies and juices.

Westside

Fia Restaurant

2454 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90403

Led by chef Brendan Collin’s globally-minded seasonal menu, this indoor/outdoor venue offers a weekend brunch highlighted by avocado toast with a Spanish fried egg, black truffle “cheesy scramble,” southern fried chicken and biscuits and the corned beef hash “loco moco.”

Gracias Madre

8905 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069

With its plant-based Mexican cuisine, Gracias Madre in West Hollywood offers a vegan option for brunch. Start off with a sampling of Tostada al Ajillo (chipotle hummus, new Mexico chili, roasted cherry tomato, sorrel, black radish), then choose among such items as the Chimichangas or Potato Flautas. Finally, wash it down with a Mexican mimosa.

Lanea

217 Broadway Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Open since last summer, Lanea aims to bring the soul of Mexico to Santa Monica. They’re big on football, but first the food. Brunch starts at 11 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays with their full menu plus Bloody Marias and a choice of breakfast tacos: Huevos con Chorizo (scrambled eggs, queso and spicy pork sausage), Huevos con Bacon (scrambled eggs, queso, and bacon bits) and Huevos con Sausage (scrambled eggs, queso and breakfast sausage links). Oh, and did we mention there’s live college football on Sundays, too?

The Valley

Hamptons 818

14917 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403

Established in 2016, Hamptons 818 boasts it has the best hash browns on Ventura Boulevard. Try them out or sample the Feta Fries or Vibe Nachos, both with their signature feta cheese sauce. Better still? The bottomless mimosas.

On the Thirty

14622 Ventura Blvd Ste. 112, Sherman Oaks, CA

On the Thirty offers food for every mood your taste buds might be in: from the Savory (Breakfast Sandwich on Italian loaf with farm fresh eggs and apple-smoked bacon) to The Sweet (red velvet Oreo waffles) to The Benny’s (Pork Belly on a toasted English muffin, with two poached eggs, arugula, heirloom tomatoes, house Hollandaise).

Mediterraneo at the Westlake Village Inn

32037 Agoura Road, Westlake Village, CA 91361

Sitting on the grounds of a rustic Tuscan-style resort, this restaurant (complete with dog-friendly front patio) offers a weekend brunch menu by executive chef Lisa Biondi that includes multiple variations on Eggs Benedict. Other fare ranges from spicy (Huevos Rancheros) to sweet (Lemon-Mascarpone Berry Crepes) to light (the Naked Breakfast Wrap).

Nellie’s Skillet

25858 Tournament Rd, Santa Clarita CA

On the way to Santa Clarita or a trip to Six Flags, you might want to check out this eatery and any of its signature skillets. Among the selections: Chilaquiles with its house enchilada sauce and scrambled eggs; the Country Skillet with turkey sausage, country gravy and spinach tomato; or the Chorizo Con Pasas with chorizo, home fries, green peppers, onions and two fried eggs.

VIP’s Cafe

18345 Ventura Blvd, Tarzana, CA 91356

This low-key breakfast spot features a retro chic atmosphere, American style breakfasts (they make a particularly scrumptious pancake) and fresh-squeezed juice. For dog owners, the patio is friendly to four-legged customers.

 

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