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Out & About: Carpinteria

When a town calls itself the “home of the world’s safest beach,” you expect it to be laidback. And yes, Carpinteria – even the name soothes – offers no shortage of calm waters and peaceful strides along sandy shores. But the town, roughly 12 miles southeast of Santa Barbara, is also home to much more – from the Santa Barbara Polo Club to the seals and sea lions found nearby Carpinteria Bluffs. And if you have always wanted to know what the world’s largest vat of guacamole looks like, the California Avocado Festival happens every October. If waiting until autumn for guacamole isn’t for you, here are some other suggestions for how to spend a day or weekend exploring the sights and surf of Carpinteria. Safety is almost certainly guaranteed.

MORNING

Carpinteria State Beach

Although an ideal spot for camping and swimming, the real draw of this mile-long state beach is the seafaring animals who call it home. In addition to the sea lions and seals – and possibly a passing whale – there are tidepools filled with starfish, crabs, snails, octopi and sea urchins, among others. One note if you’re thinking about tagging along with a four-legged friend: dogs are not allowed on the beach, but they are permitted in the picnic area.

Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve and Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary

While spotting birds and other wildlife, follow the hiking trails to the open park space with its stunning views north to the Santa Ynez Mountains and south to the Channel Islands. From here, you can look down on the Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary, the habitat for almost 100 adult seals who birth their pups on the shoreline. The sanctuary is a protected space and off-limits to people. But from above, you can quietly observe. Remember to bring binoculars.

Tar Pits Beach

Less than a mile from the seal sanctuary, you can find this aptly-named slice of shoreline. Once mined for the asphalt that drains out from a natural lake, this area of Carpinteria State Beach has been transformed into a destination for both hikers and surfers.

 

Shop in downtown Carpinteria 

After a morning wandering through nature, why not spend time exploring Linden Avenue, the shopping hub of downtown Carpinteria? Only a few blocks from the state beach, it’s lined with century-old palm trees and vintage shops. One tourist stop is Robitaille’s Candies, famed for its Presidential Mints (because they have been favorites of past American presidents). It also offers the opportunity to watch the candy makers at work thanks to a glassed-in kitchen.

AFTERNOON

Stop for a Bite

If you feel like having lunch after a morning spent hiking and shopping, Linden Avenue has plenty of options, including this 50-year-old hamburger stand. The Spot does serve a range of menu options – from a shrimp burrito to clam chowder – but really, it’s about the classic, no-frills burger, as simple as beef, cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickle, and Thousand Island dressing.

Carpinteria Valley Museum of History

For those interested in more than what Carpinteria looks like now, this historical museum offers a detailed gaze into its past. Exhibits deal the three significant cultures that have called the area home over the centuries: the Chumash Indians, the Mexican and Spanish settlers, and the immigrant and American pioneers. Exhibits are open every afternoon Tuesdays through Saturdays.

Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club

Located on Foothill Road in Carpinteria, the Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club has been described as the town’s best-kept secret. Starting in April and running through December, the public is invited to attend the polo game that happens every Sunday afternoon. You don’t have to be a club member. On Fridays, spectators can partake in Happy Hour in the grandstands.

Whale Watching

Nearly 30 different species of whales and dolphins travel through the Santa Barbara Channel every year, meaning there is never a bad time to go spotting one of these gentle marine giants. Long-running area tour companies include The Condor Express which carries as many as 120 passengers on its catamaran, and Sunset Kidd, which takes visitors sailing on a 41-foot yacht.

Summerland Winery

It wouldn’t be a California sojourn without wine tasting. And Carpinteria and the surrounding area do not disappoint. Located in the seaside town that bears its name, Summerland Winery provides a tasting room where you can sample its Central Coast collection. For dog lovers, the winery encourages you to bring your furry companion along to join the pack.

EVENING

Little Dom’s Seafood

Carpinteria isn’t as far from Los Feliz as you might think. Warner Ebbink and chef Brandon Boudet, who own and run Little Dom’s in Los Angeles, opened Little Dom’s Seafood in Carpinteria earlier this year. As you’d expect, the menu offers Italian seafood along with the coastal culinary vibe that comes with being this close to the Pacific.

The Alcazar Theatre

While it maintains its movie house façade, the Alcazar Theatre, which opened in 1928, has emerged as much more than a venue for films (although there are those – from current releases to such Hollywood classics as Singing in the Rain). A center of performing arts for Carpinteria, also stages concerts, live comedy, and live theatre, depending on the day or evening.

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Home Tips: Dealing with an Empty Nest

Whether you’re thrilled to send them off to college and financial self-stability or crestfallen your babies are gone, you’re still left with an empty nest. So what better time to reassess not only your goals – like heading out on that long-belated road trip – but also your surroundings? Here are a few tips to help you adjust after your family has downsized, leaving you – and your home – teenager-free.

DECLUTTER

It’s not just the memories that have been building over time. So have the clothes, the toys, the photographs and every other memento connected to those cherished moments in time. Besides, as people grow older, they tend to cling to items more stubbornly. One place to start: the belongings you acquired that don’t have sentimental value. The toasters you picked up along the way, for example, or that cheap lamp you never liked. If all of this sounds like too much to bear, you can always hire a professional to comb through your closets and shelves.

REDECORATE

After two decades of your living room furniture being spilled on, jumped on, slept on and sprawled on, it might be time for something new. The same could be said of almost everything else in your home, including the walls. Maybe you didn’t want to paint with fingerprint-staining kids around. Or you couldn’t cope with covering over every precious mark they made as they matured. Now, however, it is the perfect opportunity to head to the paint store. Plus, you can make whatever changes you want without a teenager telling you your taste sucks.

DON’T STORE EVERYTHING

For an empty nester, it seems like the best of both worlds: hang onto everything, even if you’re not living with it. But while renting a storage unit can be useful for things you will need again – like holiday decorations or ski equipment – it’s probably not for the decades-old baby chair you fed your now-grown children in. In other words, control your storage habit.

RENT OUT A ROOM

Nothing fills the cold void left by your absent children than a little extra cash. But if you do decide to rent out a room in your home, it doesn’t mean it needs to be a permanent arrangement. Many empty nesters rely on such sharing services as Airbnb to generate some side income (in addition to paying fewer expenses taking care of their kids). Use the money to pay for the trips you always talked about going on – or toward purchasing another house.

THINK ABOUT RIGHT SIZING

The hardest thing to get rid of, of course, is the house itself. After all, this is where you raised your family, watched your children grow, cultivated a lifetime of triumphs and challenges. No surprise then that a lot of empty nesters refuse to leave, choosing instead to renovate their homes with elevators or other ways to make their homes accessible as they age. But try to make choices based on how you envision the next few decades. Downsizing to a condo, for example, may allow for more travel while also eliminating such chores as landscaping. Just because one chapter has ended doesn’t mean it’s too early to plan for the next one.

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Economic Update for the Week Ending March 6, 2020

The U.S. Economy Added 273,000 New Jobs in February 

The Department of Labor Statistics reported that U.S. employers added 273,000 new jobs in February. Monthly job gains averaged 230,000 over the past six months, the highest job gains in two years. The unemployment rate dropped to 3.5%, a 50-year low, from 3.6% in January. Average hourly wages grew 3% from one year ago. The report demonstrates just how strong the American economy was prior to the coronavirus outbreak.

Stock Markets End Week Slightly Higher than Last Week When Stocks Had Their Biggest Weekly Decline Since the 2008 Financial Crisis

It was a turbulent week with 1,000 point daily swings, but markets held on to be slightly higher for the week as the coronavirus reached pandemic levels, spreading to every continent on the globe. Analysts fear that the economic impact will be devastating to the travel industry, and severely impact the worldwide economy. In a surprise move the Federal Reserve made an emergency ½% rate cut in order to lend support to the economy. Nobody knows what the final economic impact of the coronavirus will be. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 25,864.78, up 1.8% from 25,409.36 last week. It’s down 9.4% year to date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 2,972.37, up 0.6% from 2,954.22 last week. It’s down 8% year to date. The NASDAQ closed the week at 8,575.62, up 0.1% from 8,567.37 last week. It’s down 4.5% year to date.

Coronavirus Impact on the Real Estate Market 

The meltdown in stocks has pushed interest rates to 40-year lows. We did not see any decline in sales in the last two weeks. In fact, there are so many sales, inventory levels are shrinking because new listings are not keeping up with the number of sales. Inventory levels are now back to 2017 levels, which represented historic lows. This has caused multiple offers on homes that are priced realistically, pushing prices up.

U.S. Treasury Bond Yields 

As stock markets plummeted, investors moved money from stocks to the safety of bonds. The 10-year treasury bond closed the week at its lowest level in 100 years.  The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 0.74% down from 1.13% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 1.25%, down from 1.65%, last week. We watch treasury bond yields because mortgage rates often follow bond yields.

Mortgage Rates at 40-Year Lows 

The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey released on March 5, 2020 reported mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate average was 3.29%, down from 3.44% last week. The 15-year fixed was 2.79%, down from 2.95% last week. The 5-year ARM was 3.18%, down slightly from 3.20% last week. Usually, mortgage rates follow bond yields, but lenders have not lowered rates to the extent that bond yields have dropped.

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Valley Weekend Events: March 6 – 8

Conejo Valley

Travel to the chomping, stomping land before time, take in some sleight of hand or settle in for Springtime for Hitler. Whether you’re in the mood for classical music or a trip back in time to the Civil War, there’s no shortage of entertainment and events this weekend in the Conejo Valley.

Friday – March 6, 2020

Dinosaur World Live

Fred Kavli Theater, Thousand Oaks Bank of America Performing Arts Center, 2100 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, CA

While you wait for the next Jurassic Park sequel – or for scientists to actually breed dinosaurs – this interactive live show should more than satisfy your appetite for prehistoric lizards. Among the beasts audiences of this all-ages show will have the chance to get up and close with: the Triceratops, the Giraffatitan, the Microraptor, the Segnosaurus and, of course, the Tyrannosaurus Rex. For more details, go HERE.

Saturday – March 7, 2020

The Producers

Conejo Players Theatre, 351 S Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks, CA

The Conejo Players Theatre raises the curtain on The Producers, the Oscar-winning, Mel Brooks comedy about a broke, shady Broadway producer and his meek accountant who conspire to stage the biggest flop of all time – in the hopes of conning the show’s investors out of millions. The crux of their plan? A musical called Springtime for Hitler. For details, go HERE.

Eric Buss: Shenanigans

Scherr Forum Theatre, Thousand Oaks Bank of America Performing Arts Center, 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, CA

Expect to be dazzled and delighted at this new show starring award-winning comedian and magician, Eric Buss, award-winning magician Stuart McDonald, Michael Rayner and vinyl spinster, DJ Nel. It promises surprises beyond simply making you marvel: how did they do that? For details, go HERE.

Sunday – March 8, 2020

Civil War Days

137 Strathearn Place, Simi Valley, CA

Saturday and Sunday with costumed civilians as well as soldiers relating tales from the conflict. Highlights will include President Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address and the re-enactment of the surrender at Appomattox. Learn about everything going on HERE.

Thousand Oaks Philharmonic Gala

The Gardens at Los Robles, 299 S Moorpark Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA

Internationally-acclaimed pianist Peter Klimo’s recital is the centerpiece of this evening devoted to benefiting the young musicians of Ventura County. In addition to the performance, there will be cocktails and a gourmet dinner. For more information, go HERE.

San Fernando Valley

Dancing queens, comedians and esports players – they’re all on tap this weekend in the San Fernando Valley.

Friday – March 6, 2020

Friday Night at The Bunker

2200 W Burbank Boulevard, Suite B, Burbank, CA

Start the weekend off with laughter at this speakeasy setting featuring Gaina Rivina, Brooks Wheelan, who has been called a name to watch by the London Times, and Chase Bernstein, who has performed on A Little Late With Lilly Singh as well as written for shows on Netflix. The venue is BYOB. For tickets and details, go HERE.

Saturday – March 7, 2020

Brad Williams

Flappers Comedy Club and Restaurant, 102 E Magnolia Boulevard, Burbank, CA

After two highly-rated comedy specials on Showcase and appearances on Jimmy Kimmel Live, the Tonight Show and Comedy Underground, Brad Williams has emerged as one of the most in-demand comics working today. In addition to his own podcast with Adam Ray, Williams has contributed to Adam Carolla’s podcast, The Adam Carolla Show. For details, go HERE.

From Keyboards to Dollars

Motion Picture and Television Fund, 23388 Mulholland Drive, Woodland Hills, CA

Getting published is one thing. Getting paid is something else altogether. Literary agent and attorney Paul S. Levine, writer of How Authors Go from Fingers to Keyboard to Dollars in Their Bank Accounts: Four Ways Book Authors Make Money from Publishers, promises to have plenty of advice for writers at this event, presented by the San Fernando Valley Chapter of the California Writers Club. For more information, go HERE.

Sunday – March 8, 2020

Blizzard Arena Esports Competitions

3000 W Alameda Avenue, Burbank, CA

The world’s top esports players are set to clash in such arenas as Overwatch, Starcraft II and Call of Duty. Along with the on-screen battles, attendees can expect free guest wi-fi and plenty of swag. For gamers and esports enthusiasts, this is ground zero. Get the details HERE.

ABBA Mania 2020

El Portal Theater, 5267 Lankershim Boulevard, North Hollywood, CA

Mamma Mia! It’s not much of a chance you’re taking on them. Abba Mania! returns you to the heyday of the Swedish supergroup beloved for such other hits as Dancing Queen and Winner Takes All. The U.S. cast of this show is comprised of performers from the U.S. and Australia who recreate the group’s last concert in 1979. For all the details, go HERE.

Santa Clarita Valley

Michael Bolton can’t live without his symphony and a pair of acts pay tribute to two of the most popular acts in modern music history. All this and more can be found going on this weekend in Santa Clarita.

Friday – March 6, 2020

Michael Bolton: The Symphony Sessions

Saban Theatre, 8440 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA

The Grammy winner brings his hits to the Saban Theatre, complete with a symphony orchestra. That shouldn’t be a surprise, considering his latest album collected and arranged such favorites as How Am I Supposed to Live Without You with a full orchestra. For details, go HERE.

Saturday – March 7, 2020

Eagles Tribute by The Long Run

The Canyon – Santa Clarita, 24201 Valencia Boulevard No.1351, Santa Clarita, CA

For nearly two decades, The Long Run – Experience the Eagles has been one of the top tribute acts in North America. What better place to see them than the Hotel California itself? For tickets and information, go HERE.

Trace Adkins

The Forum, Santa Clarita, Santa Clarita, CA

Country star Trace Adkins, who has charted more than 20 singles on the Billboard country music charts, brings his distinctive voice and his decades of hits to the Forum in Santa Clarita. In addition to his music career, he was a finalist in 2008 on The All Star Celebrity Apprentice. He won the reality-TV competition in 2013. For tickets and details, go HERE.

Sunday – March 8, 2020

Santa Clarita Comic and Toy Expo 2020

College of the Canyons, E Road, Santa Clarita, CA

This one-day event will feature a variety of exhibitors from the comics and toys realm. Locally-owned comic shop Kimzar Kollectables is sponsoring the event, which will let enthusiasts interact with industry professionals as well as other liked-minded fans. For details, go HERE.

George Strait Tribute by The Troubadour Experience

The Canyon – Santa Clarita, 24201 Valencia Boulevard, No. 1351, Santa Clarita, CA

The Troubadour Experience bills itself as the greatest George Strait tribute band, promising all the hits of the “King of County,” who has sold more than 100 million records worldwide. For tickets and information, go HERE.

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Valley Eats: Soup

Any time of year is soup weather. So while a cold day in Southern California conjures thoughts of staying warm with a piping hot bowl, don’t dismiss the power of ramen or matzo balls or chowder just because temperatures are rising. Armed with bread and an abundance of spices, a single spoonful can make for one satisfying slurp. Here are some of the best around the Valley.

San Fernando Valley

Art’s Delicatessen & Restaurant

12224 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City, CA 91604

This classic deli, with its corned beef sandwiches, doesn’t skimp on the soup: from chicken noodle and chicken broth to bean and barley and cabbage to the beef borscht and chili con carne. But, of course, all soups should only be sampled after the mighty matzo ball.

Kai Ramen

15030 Ventura Boulevard, No. 23, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403

For ramen lovers in Sherman Oaks, this eatery is the go-to stop for such favorite dishes as the Spicy Chicken (yellow noodles, home-made meat, flavored egg, scallion, baby bakchoi and crispy onion), the signature Kai’s White (skinny noodle with garlic butter and pork belly) and the Popeye Ramen (spinach noodle, with tofu, spring mix, tofu, flavored egg and red onions).

Soup Goddess

4001 W Riverside Drive, Burbank, CA 91505

Have a bowl without the guilt. The vegan and gluten-free selections here include the Broccoli Cheddah (broccoli, carrots, onions and celery with sautéed leeks, garlic and chili flakes), the Mushroom Heaven (with portabella, naturally) and, to underscore its healthiness, the Cabbage Fit Soup (cabbage with green beans, Brussel sprouts, thyme and ginger). In the mood for something that sounds not quite so stern? How about the Watermelon Gazpacho, with seedless watermelon, grape vine tomatoes, English cucumber, green onion, jalapeño, garlic and lime?

Conejo Valley

The Gourmet Soup Kitchen

23229 Saticoy Street, West Hills, CA 91304

This vegetarian eatery boasts a menu of more than 30 soups, aimed at pleasing even the pickiest of palettes. Among those which merit serious consideration: the African Peanut (yams, carrots, onions and other vegetables, along with ginger, garlic, organic lite peanut butter and lite coconut milk), the Carrot Ginger (with a touch of sherry and sea salt) and the Spicy Six Bean (with peppers, spices and garbanzo as well as white, pinto and black beans).

Taiyo Ramen

2310 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362

This shop in Thousand Oaks knows its ramen. So why not choose one of their specialty dishes: the Tokyo Tsukemen (soft dry noodles and fish-based dipping sauce with pork, egg, lime, roasted garlic and green onions), the Seafood Paitan Ramen (shrimp and calamari with scallop, fish cake, cabbage and sole fish) or the Yakisoba Noodles (Japanese-style stir fried noodles, vegetables and either chicken or tofu). They also offer a vegan ramen with vegan noodles and broth. If you feel like cooling down afterward, bobas include a matcha green tea.

SoLé SoupS

1772B E Avenida De Los Arboles Thousand Oaks, CA 91362

Fusing a modern attitude to old-world recipes, this eatery stresses it wants to make healthy eating fun, swift and convenient. The menu can vary, but featured selections can range from zucchini to turkey meatball in red sauce to chicken and barley to a yellow split pea with curry.

Santa Clarita Valley

Umaichi Ramen

26877 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91350

Declaring that ramen is Japanese soul food, this modern restaurant serves up Japanese noodle soups alongside Asian-style buns, beer and sake. Ramen variations include the Cold Noodle with Creamy Sesame Dressing, the Spicy Shoyu Ramen and the Green Vegetarian Ramen.

Masa Ramen

27051 Mcbean Parkway, Suite 101, Santa Clarita, CA 91355

Hoping to introduce ramen feasters to new iterations of the dish, their menu includes the Mabo (a spicy Mabo sauce mixed with beef, green onion and shredded chili peppers), the Miso (chashu pork and white fish cake with green onion, corn, bamboo, nori, egg and bean sprouts) and the Curry (an egg combined with corn or green onion as well as chicken).

Paik’s Noodle

28124 Newhall Ranch Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91355

Drop by this eatery if you feel in the mood for do-it-yourself Asian hot pot – from the Jjamppong (Korean noodles swimming with squid, pork and vegetables in spices) to the Jajangmyeon (noodles simmered in black bean sauce) to the Tangsuyuk (sweet and sour sauce with fried pork). The Bokkeummyeon consists of sit-fried noodles with seafood, vegetables and pork.

 

 

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LA Weekend Events: March 6 – March 8

From a punk legend and a rising county music star to a gospel queen and the Los Angeles Philharmonic, there’s a concert, event or conference for you in Los Angeles and the Westside this weekend – whether you’re in the mood to rock out or simply relax with some wine and a paintbrush.

Friday, March 6, 2020

Patti Smith

Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA

Iconic punk, poet and rock pioneer, Patti Smith, has been celebrated as one of music’s most distinctive and influential voices since her debut album, Horses, in 1975. An accomplished author, visual artist, and photographer, she remains a vital voice, echoing the title of her 1988 protest anthem “People Have the Power.” For details on how to see her live, go HERE.

Jordan Davis

El Rey Theater, 5515 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA

Jordan Davis was hailed as Billboard’s Top New Country Artist of 2018, confirming his status as one of country music’s rising stars. His debut album Home State was streamed more than 800 million times worldwide and featured such hits as Slow Dance in A Parking Lot, Singles You Up and Take It From Me. For tickets and information about his L.A. performance, go HERE.

Saturday, March 7, 2020

Paint Mingle Drink

Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA

If you’ve always wanted to paint, but never picked up a brush, Paint Mingle Drink hands you all the materials to express yourself. No prior experience needed – only the desire to try. Each painter receives a canvas, paints and brushes. And all Paint Mingle Drink events offer a cash bar. You can find details and ticket information HERE.

Blake Shelton

The Forum, 3900 W Manchester Boulevard, Inglewood, CA

The country music superstar and long-running coach on The Voice brings his Friends and Heroes 2020 tour to The Forum with special guest Lauren Alaina. Expect appearances as well by Trace Adkins, John Anderson and the Bellamy Brothers. For tickets, go HERE.

Sunday, March 8, 2020

Yolanda Adams with Gustavo Dudamel and the LA Phil

Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA

Described as the “Queen of Contemporary Gospel Music,” Yolanda Adams joins Gustavo Dudamel and the LA Phil to celebrate how the church supports young aspiring artists – whether by supporting social justice causes or by simply providing hope. Find details HERE.

UC Women’s Leadership Conference 2020

UCLA Ackerman Union, 308 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA

This conference originated with a group of student leaders at UCLA who sought to create a network of UC students, alumni and community members. Last year, the first annual UC Womxn’s Leadership Conference attracted more than 300 students from across all UC campuses, hosting more than 75 speakers, including Kleo Wade and Amy Ziering. For more information about the event, go HERE.

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Out and About: Carmel By The Sea

With storybook streets and old-world Victorian cottages, Carmel-by-the-Sea hardly sounds like California. That is, until you come face-to-face with the jagged coastline, the impeccable sands of the beaches or its historic Spanish mission. Or until you realize this town of nearly 4,000 has no shortage of quirks befitting its history of attracting artsy California eccentrics: no street addresses or parking meters, to name two.

And did we mention Clint Eastwood used to be mayor? In fact, just last year Eastwood –  who fell in love with the area during filming of his 1971 directorial debut, Play Misty for Me, and went onto become the town’s mayor in the 1980s – listed the last lots in Tehama, a community he helped develop to safeguard the area’s environment. So while it is about five hours from Los Angeles, Carmel-by-the-Sea is worth every mile of the drive, however long you stay.

MORNING

Carmel Beach and Scenic Road

At the base of Ocean Avenue, this long, wide strip of white sand has long been known as one of California’s most gorgeous beaches. A haven for sun-seekers, surfers, dogs (yes, the beach is canine-friendly) and casual visitors, it offers breathtaking vistas of the ocean and as much, or as little, activity as you feel like attempting. If you feel like exploring on foot, the Scenic Bluff Path runs parallel to Scenic Road above Carmel Beach. If you’d rather view the ocean from behind the wheel, consider a drive down majestic Scenic Road.

Carmel Mission

Constructed in 1797, Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Río Carmelo is a restored Roman Catholic mission church. Of its five museums, the focal point is the Basilica Church, which is a registered National Historic Landmark and showcases the Mission’s collection of Spanish colonial art and artifacts. The Carmel Mission offers tours of the property, including the courtyards, Basilica, Indian cemetery and museums, with the intent of portraying not only what the Mission was like centuries ago, but what California life was like during the period.

The Carmel Art Association

Almost 100 art galleries are nestled in the downtown area of Carmel-by-the-Sea. In fact, at more than 20 art galleries, the owners actively work in the building. The oldest gallery here is the Carmel Art Association, which was founded in 1927. Other galleries include the Center for Photographic Art (established by Ansel Adams, Cole Weston and Wynn Bullock when it was called Friends of Photography). If you feel like mingling with local artists, check out Meet the Makers, where you can peruse their galleries while sampling various area wines.

Stroll and shop

Hundreds of shops and galleries are nestled around or just off of Ocean Avenue, nearly all of them locally-owned and managed, and all within walking distance. Once you’re finished shopping the boutiques, take a walk-through Carmel’s residential areas with its cottages and other whimsical architecture. And don’t be surprised if you come across a courtyard or surreptitious side street illustrating the town’s charming eccentricities.

AFTERNOON

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Described as “the crown jewel” of California’s state parks, it’s no wonder Point Lobos has drawn millions of visitors over the years. Abundant with life and history, including rare plants and archeological sites, it is awe-inspiring both on and off the land. Under the sea, divers can spot sea lions, otters and seals, as well as gray whales during the migration season. On land, there are hiking trails galore with free public walks offered daily.

Tor House and Hawk Tower

How can you pass up a chance to tour a place with the name “Hawk Tower?” Tor House and Hawk Tower – which pretty much look like you would expect with the stone and English Tudor aesthetic – were the home of poet Robinson Jeffers and his family for most of the 20th century. Tours start on the hour — if you’re interested. You’ll be with the esteemed company if you drop by since previous visitors have included Charlie Chaplin and George Gershwin.

17-Mile Drive

One of the most scenic cruises in the world, 17-Mile Drive zips past attractions including the 5,300-acre Del Monte Forest, all the while clinging to the Pacific coastline. Among other highlights: Fanshell Beach, the Restless Sea at Point Joe, Lone Cypress and Spanish Bay.

Monterey Bay and Cannery Row

You may have read John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row, set during the area’s industrial zenith, but it remains a must-see destination for visitors of all generations. You can reach Cannery Row by 17-Mile Drive from Pacific Grove. While Monterey is known for its charm and quaint history, Cannery Row is perfect for a pleasurable jaunt with boutique shopping and plenty of craft beer.

Pebble Beach Golf Links

Pebble Beach is a legend for a reason. One of the most breathtaking courses in the world, it’s a must-stop for avid and casual golfers alike. Pebble Beach hosted its sixth U.S. Open in 2019, the first course to do so in five decades. And in 2023, Pebble Beach will be the first course to host a men’s, women’s and senior men’s golf tournament in the same year. Besides, even if you don’t golf at all, it’s impossible to not be staggered by its emerald beauty.

EVENING

Wine Tasting

With Monterey County’s many micro-climates, Carmel has almost 20 wine-tasting rooms within a one-mile radius, so a walking tour could be just what is called for after a day spent exploring. In many instances, Carmel winemakers are around to discuss varietals and vintages.

Nightlife

After exploring Carmel’s beauty, heritage and art, why not venture into the local nightlife: Vesuvio’s hip rooftop bar, live music at Barmel’s, margaritas at Cultura, or oysters and Bloody Marys at A.W. Shucks. For canine lovers, Terry’s Lounge at the Cypress Inn underscores Carmel’s dog-friendly reputation. Meanwhile, you may find Sade’s Cocktails described as “Carmel’s only real dive bar,” but what that really means is back-to-basics drinking.

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LA Eats: Soups

Any time of year is soup weather. So while a cold day in Southern California often conjures thoughts of battling back chills with a piping hot bowl of soup, don’t dismiss the appeal of ramen, matzo balls or chowder just because the mercury is on the rise. Armed with bread and a range of flavors, a spoonful of soup can make for one satisfying slurp. If you’re inclined, here are some of the best bowls of goodness around Los Angeles and the Westside.

Hangari Kalguksu

3470 W 6th Street Suite 9 10, Los Angeles, CA 90010

Kal-guk-su – or hand-cut noodle soup – is the order of the day at this well-liked Korean restaurant. Try it plain or with clam or with kimchi, clam and bean sprout. If that’s not to your liking, consider the oyster soup with rice and seaweed.

 

Factor’s Famous Deli

9420 W Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90035

Factor’s has been at the same location on Pico Boulevard since 1948. Expect a welcoming, family atmosphere – after all the Markowitz family has owned and operated this delicatessen since 1969. While we’ll always show up for the matzo ball when we’re in the mood for heartiness, don’t discount the deliciousness of the tortilla soup or homemade turkey chili.

Silverlake Ramen

2927 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90026

This Japanese noodle bar declares they are “obsessed with ramen.” But there’s also no rush. Start with the seaweed salad, for example, before moving onto the classic tonkatsu, with your pick of protein (pork, chicken or tofu) in succulent broth thickened with bean sprouts, spinach, green onion, black garlic oil and egg. For non-meat-eaters, they offer a vegetable broth with bean sprouts, mushroom and tofu.

Connie & Ted’s

8171 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90046

No matter what style of clam chowder you prefer, you won’t be disappointed by Jo’s Wicked Good Chowda’ at this seafood restaurant. That’s because they offer all three popular kinds of chowda’: the Rhode Island (a light broth that’s heavy on vegetables like celery and carrots), the New England (thick and creamy with potatoes, onion and clams) and the Manhattan (tomatoes with clams, pork and herbs). All three are made with salt pork.

Petit Trois

718 N. Highland Avenue, Los Angeles, CA

This French bistro cuisine offers plenty of Parisian delights, but even up against the steak tartare and escargots, the French onion soup is an exquisite destination all its own, thanks to the fusion of caramelized onions with melted gruyère and emmental cheeses.

Ramen Hood

317 S Broadway, Grand Central Market, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Despite the animal-free menu – including a jaw-droppingly realistic vegan egg that will have you wondering how they made the chicken, it came from – Top Chef season two winner Ilan Hall’s ramen stand has no shortage of carnivorous fans. How do they do it? According to the eatery, the broth is kelp and shiitake mushrooms, combined with roasted sunflower seeds and white miso. As for the egg, it’s pure alchemy: GMO-free soy milk, gelled with the seaweed extract agar with a yolk that consists of nutritional yeast, back salt and sodium alginate. That hardly describes the process, but when the result is this convincing, does it matter?

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Home Tips: Babyproofing

If winter has almost ended, it means spring and summer babies are in the air. In the United States, most births occur between June and August – nine or so months after the cold, dark days of winter have brought people together indoors. With a few months left before their new addition arrives, it’s about time for expectant parents to figure out how to make their living spaces safer while keeping them functional (and even presentable to visitors). The effort won’t necessarily come cheap as baby-proofing a home can cost as much as $2,000. But to begin with, consider these six tips to prep your house for your family’s new arrival.

Pick furniture that can double as storage

If you’ve ever visited a home with a newborn, you know how cluttered a living room or kitchen can become. To avoid this (or at least not become overwhelmed by it), go shopping for furniture such as ottomans, tables, baskets and cabinets that can also act as storage compartments. That way, you can quickly stash away diaper boxes, clothes, toys, bibs, bottles, towels, and other baby-related paraphernalia, while also keeping them easily within reach.

Resist stains

Short of sealing every wall and piece of furniture in cling wrap, your carpet, sofa, chairs, and even curtains will doubtlessly end up stained by … something. And probably sooner than you expect. So be sure to invest in stain-resistant materials – as well as inexpensive, dark-colored blankets, throw pillows and rugs that can disguise spills and mishaps. Unless, of course, you prefer to look back years from now, fondly remembering where every adorable stain came from.

Keep an eye out for how quickly they grow

Babies are manageable until they can crawl or run. So rather than wait, start putting away anything in your home that might shatter or cause an injury if knocked over. (They will still be there in three, four or five years.) Similarly, be mindful of your child’s age. Things you got for your new baby which were safe, such as play gyms, can become a hazard as they grow.

Ensure a safe sleep

For all the interrupted, exhausting nights parents endure, babies sleep a lot – as much as 16 hours a day, in fact. So nothing is more important than where they sleep. Pick a crib with slats no wider than two inches and preferably one without corner posts. Also, be mindful of where you place the crib since cords from curtains or blinds can create a strangulation risk.

Prevent falls

The leading cause of death and nonfatal injuries in children under the age of one? Falls. Even after you’ve purchased a baby gate for your stairs, make sure it’s secure (use screws or bolts to fasten it to the wall) and does not easily unlatch. Also, remember babies can just as easily tumble from a sofa or bed. In other words: never let them out of your sight.

Guard against shocks

Electrical outlets, like falls, are an obvious danger as soon as your child can move around. You can buy outlets that are child-proof, but you should also use furniture to block access to them – along with power bars and cords – so your little one doesn’t even think about going there.

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Economic update for the week ending February 29, 2020

Stock markets had their worst week since the 2008 financial crisis – Fears of how the coronavirus will impact the economy sent stocks plummeting this week as new cases of the virus have emerged throughout the world. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 25,409.36, down 12.4% from 28,992.41 last week. It’s down 10% year to date. The S&P 500 closed the week a t 2,954.22, down 11.2% from 3,327.41 last week. It’s down 8.4% year to date. The NASDAQ closed the week at 8,567.37, down 10.5%from 9,576.59 last week. It’s down 6.4% year to date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – As stock markets plummeted, investors moved money from stocks to the safety of bonds. The 10-year treasury bond closed the week at its lowest level in 100 years. The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 1.13% down from 1.46% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 1.65%, down from 1.90% last week. We watch treasury bond yields because mortgage rates often follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates remain at the lowest levels in 3 years – The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey released on February 27, 2020, reported mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate average was 3.45%, down from 3.49% last week. The 15-year fixed was 2.95%, down from 2.99% last week. The 5-year ARM was 3.20%, down from 3.25% last week. Usually, mortgage rates follow bond yields, but lenders chose to leave rates mostly unchanged this week because they believe that these historic low bond yield levels this week would be temporary.

Preliminary February 2020 month-end update

The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the month on February 28 at 25,409.36, down 10.1% from 28,256.03 on January 31. The S&P 500 closed the month at 2,954.22, down 8.4% from 3,225.52 at the end of January. The NASDAQ closed the month at 8,566.37, down 6.4% from 9,150.94 on January 31, 2020.

U.S. Treasury Bond Yields dropped in February – The 10-year U.S. treasury bond yield closed the month at 1.13%, down from 1.51% on January 31. The 30-year Treasury yield ended the month at 1.65%, down from 1.99% on January 31.

Mortgage Rates dropped in February – The February 27, 2020, Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that the 30-year fixed mortgage rate average was 3.45%, down from 3.51% on January 30, 2020. The 15-year fixed was 2.95%, down from 3.0% on January 30. The 5-year ARM was 3.20%, down from 3.24% on January 30, 2020.

Home sales figures run one month behind. These are January’s results:

January 2020 California home sales report – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing single-family home sales totaled 396,550 in January on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. That marked a 10.3% increase from the number of homes sold last January. It should be noted that January 2019 marked the fewest sales in a month in over a decade. The number of sales has rebounded over the last several months. The statewide median price was $575,160, down 6.5% from December, and up 7.1% from last January. The median price is the point at which ½ the homes sell for more and ½ the homes sell for less. Perhaps there was an unusual number of sales at the lower end in January, as we have seen prices increasing rapidly due to multiple offers and low inventory. The unsold inventory index in January was 3.4 months, down from 4.6 months in January 2019. On a regional level the number of sales, median price, and supply of housing were as follows: In Los Angeles County the number of sales increased by 16.7% from last January. The median price paid for a home in Los Angeles County was $617,520, up 9.1% from January 2019. There was a 3.2-month supply, down from a 4.9-month supply one year ago. In Orange County, the number of homes sold increased by 22.1% from one year ago. The median price paid for a home in Orange County was $855,000, up 7.3% from last January. There was a 3.4-month supply, down from a 5.4-month supply one year ago. In Ventura County, the number of sales rose 13.9% from January 2019. The median price in Ventura County was $660,000, up 7.3%from January 2019. There was a 4.8-month supply of homes for sale, down from a 7.2-month supply last January.

California housing affordability increases in the fourth quarter of 2019 – The California Association of Realtors reported that 31% of California households could afford to purchase a $607,040 median-priced home in the fourth quarter of 2019. That was up from 28% in the fourth quarter of 2018, as substantially lower interest rates offset price gains. A minimum annual income of $119,600 was needed to purchase a $607,400 median-priced single-family home with a monthly payment of $2,990. That payment included principal, interest, property tax and insurance with a 20% down payment, and a 30-year fixed loan. Affordability also increased for condominiums and townhomes from one year ago. The report revealed that41% of California households could afford a $480,000 median-priced condominium or townhouse, up from 37% one year ago. An income of $94,400 was needed to qualify for a monthly payment of $2,360 on a median-priced condominium or townhome. Single-family home affordability in Los Angeles County was 27% in the fourth quarter of 2019, up from 24% in the fourth quarter of 2018. The median price in Los Angeles County in the fourth quarter of 2019 was $617,310, and the monthly payment was $3,040. Single-family home affordability in Orange County was 26% in the fourth quarter of 2019, up from 20% in the fourth quarter of 2018. The median price in Orange County in the fourth quarter of 2019 was $828,000, and the monthly payment was $4,070. Single-family home affordability in Ventura County was 31% in the fourth quarter of 2019, up from 29% in the fourth quarter of 2018. The median price in Ventura County in the fourth quarter of 2019 was $660,000, and the monthly payment was $3,250.

January 2020 U.S. existing-home sales report – The National Association of Realtors reported that Total existing-home sales which include completed transactions for single-family homes, condominiums, townhomes, and co-ops increased 9.6% year over year from the number of home sales last January. The nationwide median price increased by 6.8% from January 2019. Total housing inventory for sale dropped 10.7% from the number of homes for sale in January 2019. There was a 3.1-month supply of homes for sale in January, down from a 3.8-month supply one year ago.
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