For an old fashioned seascape, we all need a getaway once in awhile to make sure we still get it-or don’t lose it. When work mounts and the pulse of the rat race finally takes its toll, it’s time to shut down your computer, stash your cell phone and roll down the world famous Pacific Coast Highway all the way to Sunset Beach in North Orange County. As you wind your way through this 100 year old community– population, 1288– you may suspect you have driven back in time to a rare place.

What makes it so rare? Well for starters it’s its Pristine Beach

Tiny shops, small hotels, bed and breakfasts, special restaurants, and surfboard shops are clustered in this mile long stretch of PCH. To reach the beach take a right on Anderson Street, where you will find a mix of classic cottages and fairly low key beach mansions with a greenbelt that has a kiddy playground, public bathrooms and free parking.

The ocean is just steps away. A pale beige carpet of soft sand beckons. You get to choose, sunning, seashell searches, reading, volleyball, boogie boarding, and picnicking.

There’s not a snack stand or boardwalk in sight—just endless seashores and sand.

Kites and windsurfing are also favored here. While nearby Huntington Beach bans the sport due to crowds, Sunset Beach is windsurf friendly. There’s a windsurf shop right across the street on Pacific Coast Highway, where visitors can rent equipment and be on their way in half an hour.

Late afternoons are the most popular for windsurfing–bright sails whip in the wind as riders strain to command their craft. Across the street from Sunset Beach is its bay, ideal for launching kayaks which are also available for rental.

The people

Celebrities sometimes create brief “appearances” here (most recently, Sandra Bullock vs. Jesse James), but life goes on for the mix of long time residents and newcomers who cling to this remarkable stretch of beach.

They sponsor an annual Mother’s Day Weekend Art Festival, a Chili Cook-off and a Mile Long Garage Sale. (Go figure.) Having acquired a beautifully framed pen and ink drawing for less than the cost of lunch at this sale, needless to say, this event is always on my calendar. Finally, come Christmas, the locals assert their independence again with a unique ‘No Parade’ celebration.

The places to Go

A tradition from one generation to the next, the Harbor House Cafe has an endless menu and huge portions. Open 24 hours, they serve omelet’s, burgers, salads, hot fudge sundaes, and lots more. Just down the road, there’s Woody’s for burgers and shakes, Captain Jacks and Harpoon Harry’s serves up seafood, steaks and Taco Surf.

Many of Sunset Beach’s bars and clubs have been around for 40 to 50 years and Mother’s Bar has been there so long, it used to be a place where you could purchase tickets for the Pacific Red Car.

The Pace, the Scene, the Scoop

The Sunset Beach Art Festival held on Mother’s Day Weekend (the second weekend in May), attracts shoppers as well as classic car owners cruising over for the day. Hand-crafted treasures abound, along with an art competition, pancake breakfast, raffle and vendor booths. Spread across the greenbelt, it’s a fair by the sea, full of fashion, home decor and gifts. Sponsored and produced by the Sunset Beach Community Association, Las Damas, and other community groups, the proceeds go to local programs, such as music and art for the schools. Doing well and doing good are time held traditions.

‘No Parade’ Mirrors the local Spirit at Christmas

Sunset Beach’s ‘No Parade’ holiday message is, "Come in a dressed up car, wear some sparkles and bring your lights, cause’ we’re having no parade tonight.

"Time for BBQ pits, containerized fires with glowing embers, and music among old friends. The local flyer reads, "Per Sunset Beach tradition, there will be NO Boat Parade. Watch for the Fire Truck Participants Welcome! DooDah, DooDah and Happy Holidays!"

The Water Tower on 1 Anderson St.

Another clue about the ethos of this community, is that the original water tower is still a landmark standing guard over the sand in Sunset Beach. That being said, it was supposed to be torn down years ago for redevelopment. But the community said no–and no around here means what it means–no!

But times have a changed, and it’s been sold several times, recently for several million dollars—but nonetheless the converted water tower house still has the stunning view it always had; but with the amount of money that added to its value, it’s accompanied by an elevator that leads up to the fourth story living area of a tri-level home; with two master suites, a huge bar, a fire pit lounge, an outdoor Jacuzzi and office with a panoramic view at the top. Previously it’s been a home to various families, but it’s now available as a vacation rental for $5,000 a week.

If you drive too fast you might miss Sunset Beach, so slow down–stop once and you’ll find Sunset Beach in your heart; and you’ll be back again…and again.

Directions: Sunset Beach is located on Pacific Coast Highway. From San Diego Freeway, take Seal Beach Blvd. exit. Travel South – East for several miles. Take a left at Pacific Coast Highway and drive approximately 2 miles.

Photos by Scott Schroeder

I have memories and pictures that span my entire life. My friends worked there, I’ve had season passes and gone hundreds of times.

I always know when it’s 9:30 pm in my house because I can hear the fireworks show at Disneyland booming away, even though I’m separated by no less than 3 cities.  It’s definitely in my blood; my dad remembers standing behind a chain link fence watching the park being constructed with anticipation.

Now we’re in the middle of summer, and Disneyland calls to millions of tourists, patrons, customers, and locals across the state, country, and the world.

Therefore, I’d like to share with you all, the best lessons I’ve learned about Disneyland as a result of my absolute obsession with the infamous House of Mouse:

1. Fast Pass is, and continues to be, a brilliant invention. Have you heard of it? It’s a relatively new ticket idea that saves a spot in line for you; but more realistically it serves to save you time to enter the line amongst the throng of the queue. Big name attractions like Splash Mountain (especially during the summer), and any roller coaster can have wait times that last for hours. In the summer, the park stays open later, but that still doesn’t justify standing in line for 4 hours.

With “Fast Pass,” instead, your ticket stub enables you to get a fast pass while all those “suckers” have to wait it out. A side tip: If you do decide to stand in line, take the time you’ll have lots of it, to appreciate Disney’s amazing line making skills. This company herds people like cattle, they loop everyone in and out and all over the place to accommodate for the thousands who are willing to wait. Get a fast pass for a big ride first, and then hit up other rides with shorter lines in the mean time.

2. Walt Disney was OCD about details; so take the time to enjoy them. In the rides and all over the park, you may not even notice the intricate details incorporated into the Disney experience.

For instance, when switching “lands” (from Adventureland to Frontierland), you won’t be able to see, or hear the other lands. Everything is in character, and all 5 senses are addressed.

Look up: You won’t see any airplanes or banner ads; Disney owns the air space and keeps it closed–once you’re in Disneyland, there’s no evidence of the outside world.

Walt Disney himself said, "I don’t want the public to see the world they live in while they’re in the Park. I want them to feel they’re in another world." Bonus tip: Look for “Hidden Mickies” (Mickey’s profile).  All rides have them, and they can be tricky to find. It might be a moving shadow; or it might be a blatant Mickey. Or, go on a “treasure hunt.” This website is more than helpful in telling you more about this concept. There’s hidden places everywhere. The fire station at the entrance hides Walt Disney’s old apartment. There’s an art gallery above the Pirates of the Caribbean.

3. You’re really hot and you need a place to sit down. Then try the Tiki Room. It’s recently been updated, and yeah, it’s a little campy. However, it’s air conditioned and the wait time is always short.  Also, try the movie theater on Main Street. You can watch all the old Mickey Mouse cartoons in air conditioned bliss. The train is a nice place to rest your feet, but the only air conditioning you’ll get is when you go "back in time."

4. “I’m too old to do that.” Here’s what I think when I hear this attitude:

There’s a man who dresses up as a conductor every day, and drives a train in circles around Disneyland. What are you too old to do again? I recommend riding all the children’s rides (Storybook Land, Peter Pan’s Flight, and Pinocchio’s Daring Journey)

"Why do we have to “grow up?” I know more than a few adults who have a child’s curiosity and sense of wonderment toward life–they’re people who don’t give a hang what the Joneses’ do. You’ll see them at Disneyland every time you go there:

“They’re not afraid to be delighted with simple pleasures, and they have a degree of contentment with what life has brought – sometimes it isn’t much, either."-Walt Disney.

5. Be in the right place at the right time. Never try to cross the park during a parade, as the streets are all blocked off and people are sitting on the curbs. This is the optimal time to be in New Orleans Square, riding the Pirates of the Caribbean, or the Haunted Mansion. Certain rides have extra short lines during parades, so plan your location according to these times. Want the best seat in the house for the firework show? Try riding Story Book Land at 9:25pm, they stop the boat and you can watch while you float. An even bigger tip about being in the right place at the right time–come during the week. There are approximately 40,000 guests at Disneyland every day. The crowds triple on the weekends. And never go on a 3 day weekend!

Disneyland is an exhausting experience. After a full day of walking around in the hot California sun, tempers are sky high, and the walk to the car (and the legendary sized parking structure) can seem daunting.

My final recommendation: after the final show of the evening, get a churro or a cup of coffee, and wait for 20 minutes while the majority of the crowd leaves. Once you get home, take two aspirin and a glass of water and sleep for 10 hours.

Sometime having too much fun, does have a price to pay.

When I’m out on a shoot, I have very specific sites, scenes, and locations in mind.

But, A couple of days ago, I was standing on the Santa Monica Pier, and on this day, I just stood in one spot for a few minutes to absorb all of my surroundings:

The people

The actions

The smells (Well, you won’t be able to get a hint of that from the shots below.)

The sounds (See above)

And just the feeling in the air

Here are the results of my total immersion in the Santa Monica Pier environment; and in less than 5 minutes:

You’ll be surprised what you’ll see when you stop, look, and listen.

What am I talking about?

A Water Park, of course!

Specifically:

Wild Rivers in Irvine

Or

Raging Waters in San Dimas

Just sit back and think about it for a minute:

Flowrider

Amazon Adventure

Drop Out

Little Dipper

Hold on a moment, did I mention that there’s a coupon being offered also?

For Raging Waters: The discount is good for $7 off a general admission online purchase or $5 off a general admission purchase at the park. Here’s the link for the coupon http://myragingwaters.com/rw1067 and you can use the coupon code 1067 for the online purchase https://tickets.wildrivers.com/mainstore.asp

For Wild Rivers: The discount is $5 dollars of a general admission ticket and here is the link for the coupon: www.wildriversfun.com/sun2 or you can enter the promo code: SUN2 when you purchase the ticket online http://www.ragingwaters.com/pages/pricing.html

It’s that easy–fun, water, rides, and saving money.

So what are you waiting for, let’s go have some serious fun!

Now that’s a combination most people can get behind, and Los Angeles has tons of freebies to be taken full advantage of. Many naysayers, equate the word with cheap–and in Travelin’ Local’s Free Friday series, nothing could be further from the truth. It usually means getting involved with our local community, meet up with friendly people doing things for the city which are needed, and having a great time meeting like minded neighbors while doing good and doing well at the same time.

Every week, when I research all of the free event possibilities, I’m never surprised at the variety of offerings:

On Saturday July 24^th, the Walk and Ride for a Safer 4th Street, will highlight the efforts and support for making 4^th street a bicycle friendly boulevard. For the bike ride, meet at 9:45am, and subsequently you’ll depart at 10am from Pan Pacific Park, in front of the auditorium. For the walk, meet at 10:15am, and depart at 10:30am from 4^th and Normandie. Both events end at Shatto Park. And because you just tuckered yourself out from all the activity, there’s free refreshments sponsored by the Larchmont Bungalow at Shatto Park.

If you’re in the mood for a little window shopping or better yet, buying, head over the Los Angeles Historical State Park for the 2nd Annual Renegade Craft Fair. With over 250 of indie-craft artists from all over the country, you won’t find a better place to attend free workshops, food trucks, and music from KXLU. Happening both Saturday, July 24^th and Sunday, July 25^th, from 11:00am-7:00pm, 2nd Annual Renegade Craft Fair is the place to start your early Christmas shopping.

On Saturday, July 24^th and Sunday, July 25^th, the 15th Annual Central Avenue Jazz Festival pays tribute to the rich culture and heritage of the “Avenue,” as it was known during its heyday from the 1920s to the 1940s. In addition to enjoying some world-class jazz, Latin jazz, and blues, come partake in some great food and browse through stalls of arts and crafts. The festival will take place on Central Avenue between 42^nd and 43^rd Street and the music starts at 12:00pm.

Are you into art? Then the Malibu Arts Festival is the place to be on Saturday, July 24^th and Sunday, July 25^th outside the Malibu Civic Center, 23555 Civic Center Way, from 10:00am to 6:00pm. With over 200 exhibits and artists booths from all over California, this family friendly event also features a Kid’s Village, where kids create their own art. Come early for the pancake breakfast, and don’t forget about the day long music featuring local artists.

If hiking is your thing, try these two organized hikes in Franklin Canyon Ranch. On Saturday, July 24^th, at 8:00am, Nature Rambles, is the ultimate discovery walk with Volunteer Naturalist, Bob, acting as the guide, based on his many years of experience hiking at Franklin Canyon. Magnifiers and binoculars ae recommended for this 2 hour hike. On Sunday, July 25^th, at 8:00pm, you’re in for a treat–the Full Moon Adventure. For approximately 2 hours, you’re invited to look and listen fat for wildlife in the full moon light on this moderately strenuous hike with Volunteer Naturalist Michael.

Speaking of walking, on Sunday, July 25^th,, a Memorial Walk to Honor Silver Lake’s Walking Man starts at 12:00pm. Marc Abrams aka Silver Lake’s Walking Man, passed away two days ago. For over 20 years, Abrams:

usually looped around the lake, walked down West Silverlake to Rowena, and then proceeded to Hyperion, and then Griffith Park Blvd. down to Sunset, and then back down Silverlake to the reservoir, and then he looped around the lake again. It’s about 15 miles altogether.

Meet at the Silver Lake/Moreno Metro bus stop located on West Silver Lake Drive at Moreno, and don’t forget to bring your New York Times.

If you haven’t had enough walking, hiking, and biking yet, here’s one more event you might enjoy: Celebrating the 50^th Anniversary of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the “Walk the Walk” community festival, on Sunday, July 25^th, will offer fun and free activities for the entire family. From 11:00am – 6:00pm, throughout Hollywood, an “open house” will honor the Walk of Fame with entertainment, tours and events at four key locations – the Hollywood & Highland Center, the Egyptian Theatre, Capitol Records, and the Ricardo Montalbán Theatre – showcasing the five categories of Hollywood stars– live theatre, motion picture, television, recording, and radio, and the more than 2,400 stars immortalized on the walk. How cool is that?

That’s exactly what happened when I was looking for the Kappe Residence.

For example, while heading up Latimer Street, next to the Rustic Canyon Recreation Center, I came across the Old Santa Monica Forestry Station.

On the stone monument at the Station, its dedication plaque says:

In 1887, the State Board of Forestry established the nation’s first experimental forestry station. Located in Rustic Canyon, the station tested exotic trees for planting in California, established plantations for management studies, and produced planting stock for scientific and conservation purposes. The station was operated by the Board of Forestry until 1893 and by the University of California until 1923. California Registered Historic Landmark No. 840

As a matter of local fact and lore, in 1885 the California State Board of Forestry was born–and the Old Santa Monica Forestry Station was part of its mission. The Board of Forestry–consisting of a three man team–was only able to function in an educational and advisory capacity, due to its lack of clear statutory authority and minimal budgeting.

Short lived, the Board was disbanded in 1893.

Be that as it may, today, it’s integral past existence and contribution of the Old Santa Monica Forestry Station stands as one of their short lived success stories, and up to the current–it’s an interesting spot of land where a little bit of California history took place.

Don’t get me wrong, I know automobile drivers make mistakes and too often do stupid things–sometimes ending in the death or serious injury of the rider or others, or both. Having said that, cyclists, as well as drivers, need to know the rules of the road.

As I had just passed both of these cyclists, I felt as if I knew what was going to happen, but watching it was still painful.

Here’s what happened:

Car 1 is turning right. Bike 1, with the red arrow, is riding the right hand of the road heading straight, just as in the “Wrong” side of the above illustration. Bike 2, with the green arrow, is heading straight, just like the “Right” illustrated above.

As I watched the event unfold, I knew Bike 2 was totally out of position. If Car 1 hadn’t waited for Bike 2 to go straight before turning, a terrible accident could have happened.

If you are NOT turning right, move over to the bike lane, or if no bike lane is present, more to the far right of the second lane, establishing the fact that you are not turning right, just like Bike 1 did in the example above. Even though I was the second car waiting at the traffic light, I could clearly see Bike 1.

Regardless of whether there is a bike lane or not, if a cyclist is going straight, they must not be in the dedicated automobile right turn lane.

If your lane turns into a right turn only lane, change lanes before the intersection Source: League of American Bicyclists

You might feel safer hugging the edge of the road, but by putting yourself in an unsafe position by being in the right turn lane and not turning right, you’re an accident waiting to happen. 38% of bicyclist deaths in 2008 occurred at intersections.

I’d venture a guess that each Main street has something uniquely special to that city, and that is how Seal Beach’s Main Street feels.

Seal Beach is a small city in what we pretty much label as the “O.C.” aka the Orange County, which lies next to Long Beach and the Pacific Ocean. You know you’re there when all the street signs have little seals painted on the left side.

It’s just as fun to come to Main street during the day as it is during the night. During the day, you can find free parking (unusual for beach towns), get ice cream at Sweet Jill’s or a frozen banana, and stroll out onto the pier—he second longest wooden pier, losing out only to Oceanside.

Lots of people fish here, with waist high pelicans standing by begging for fish guts.

It’s a great place to sit and watch the surfers or the sunbathers at the beach, or look out across to the sky line of Long Beach, where you can literally see the Queen Mar.

To the left and you’ll Catalina on clear day; although the breeze can be a bit chilly, the sunset is worth it.

From the entrance, before you walk onto the wooden planks, find Slick the Seal statue. He’s usually weighed down by kids sitting on him or petting him, but he’s pretty cute so it’s easy to see why.

If you’re looking for a day at the beach, Seal beach is a nice alternative to other beaches because it’s not crowded.

The water here is generally more tame (its waves are no match for Huntington’s breakers); however be that as it may, my first and only experience of being saved by a lifeguard took place at Seal Beach– when an undertow caught me by surprise.

That said, there are lifeguards on duty during the day, and it can be a nice place to sun tan, or fly kites.

At the end of the pier is Ruby’s Diner, which is not unique to Seal Beach, but it adds to the experience of the small town feel, drinking a malt, while feeling the gentle bumps of boats docking on the pier, and the waitresses in their red and white uniforms are classically cute.

As far as dining options go, there are many. Look around and you’ll find tacos, Hawaiian food, burger joints, even a wine bar, and an Irish pub. But I would recommend Walt’s Wharf. Unique to Seal Beach, Walt’s Wharf serves fresh and delicious sea food.  They only take reservations for lunch, so show up early before the dinner rush; or expect to wait up to an hour (on a Saturday), but I admit that the food is worth it.

Night life is limited, but jumping. O’Malley’s can have a line out the door, surprising for such a small street in such a small town. Other places, like Clancy’s, look like little more than a hole in the wall, but can be fun. It’s most sobering to be able to step outside and feel the sea breeze, or even stroll up half a block to the mighty Pacific.

There are lots of boutiques, depending on what you’re looking for. New bikinis and surfboard wax are of course available, but there’s also a seashell store that I adored as a child, a kite shop, and antique shops. Looking for unique fine art? You might find something here.

I’ve saved the best for last; my favorite part of Main Street has always been the Bay Theater. It opened in 1947, and used to have a very cool Wurlitzer pipe organ, and old school red seats (they aren’t the most comfortable, but they are cool looking. The Bay Theater plays new movies, but it also screens classic movies

Check this list: http://www.baytheatre.com/classic_times2.htm) every week. It’s a unique experience and cool and comfortable way to watch a classic movie on a big screen (enough with these outdoor movie screenings, right?) If I wanted bug bites on my butt I’ll go to a little league game, watching movies is an indoor sport).

Day to night, Main Street in Seal Beach offers it all.

At the LA Street Food Fest, you get your choice of 60 vendors; hot gourmet food trucks, old school carts and stands, celeb chefs and street inspired dishes from LA’s best restaurants. If that’s not enough, then go for the open bars and beer gardens that will keep you coming back–for cold beers, delicious cocktails, tequila tasting, juices and more.

If that’s not enough, two of Los Angeles’ hottest new groups will be featured, so mark your calendars for Saturday, July 24^th.

Did I forget to mention the cost?

For the low price of $45.00, you’ll get:

• Entry at 5:30pm
• Unlimited samples of signature eats and drinks
• Complimentary parking
• Fun photo booth prints
• Access to all the entertainment

The VIP $65.00 option includes:

• All of the above plus
• VIP Preview Hour from 4:00 – 5:00pm
• Access to a VIP parking lot

Note–the most important information about the tickets is that there will be no ticket purchasing at the door.

All tickets must be purchased via a Pre-Sale on Everbrite.

Part of the proceeds will be donated to the LA Street Food Fest’s beneficiaries, St. Vincent Meals on Wheels and Woolly School Gardens.

I Love livin’ in L.A.

The beach is named after actor Will Rogers, who in the 1920s, bought the land and developed a ranch–186 acres along the beach in what is now Pacific Palisades was once owned by Will Rogers.

Rogers died in a plane crash in 1935, and when his widow, Betty, died in 1944, the ranch subsequently became a state park, part of which is Will Rogers State Beach.

But, I digress. Back to the original question, “What’s the best way to get to Will Rogers State Beach?”

By going under the Pacific Coast Highway, aka “PCH,” using a little known street called, Ocean Way, where there’s a set of stairs to get to and from Will Rogers State Beach, as shown in the photos and map below:

Once you reach the bottom, turn left, and you’ll find this:

This is the entrance to the tunnel that goes underneath the PCH. From this angle, it looks a little dark, but as soon as you reach the bottom, the sunlight streams in from the tunnel’s end, which is the sunlight from the ocean’s horizon.

Once you reach emerge from the tunnel, you’re greeted with this view:

Now you’re moments away from pursuing your beach activity of choice. The bike path is in front of you, volleyball nets to the right and left, the beautiful Pacific Ocean in front for swimming and surfing, and for everyone who likes to just hang out and lie on the sand and chill, there’s no shortage of that!

Here’s a close up map of the location:

View Steps to Will Rogers State Beach in a larger map

If you’re driving, there’s free on-street parking available on Ocean Way, Estrada Court, and Mabery Road. You might have to walk a little, as parking may fill up quickly, but I just think of it as good exercise.

Now, you know the best way to get to Will Rogers State Beach. It doesn’t get any better!

Opening today, the 2010 OC Fair is guaranteed to satiate everyone’s fun factor until next year!

Among the amusements and festivities are concerts, amusement rides, food, special events, and everything else and more, that one could expect from a County Fair.

This year’s OC Fair’s theme is “The Beat Goes On,” and I’m sure the 1,000,000 plus people who attended last year’s OC Fair will attest to that.

On any given day, you can see Russell Brothers Circus, All Alaskan Racing Pigs, “Weird Al” Yankovic, and who knows what else. It’s a fair, people, so it’s everything and anything.

Just to wet your whistle:

Admission:

General (13-59) $10

Seniors (60+) $7

Children (6-12) $5

Children under 6 Free every day

But the best way to attend this year’s festivities is to get an adult Super Pass for only $30.00, which provides unlimited access for all 23 days of the Fair. Now that’s a bargain and it’s only one of the perks included when you purchase a Super Pass. There’s more.

Included are several special promotion days, including the WE CARE WEDNESDAYS, on July 21^st from 12:00-6:00pm.

Sponsored by 89.3 FM KPCC, if you bring 5 canned food items, you get one free admission and one carnival ride per person.

Featured this year at the OC Fair will be a 4 acre demonstration farm titled Centennial Farm, with the goal to educate the public about agriculture and its importance in our daily lives. Centennial Farm is home to fruit and vegetable gardens, various livestock, and the Millennium Barn. Children and adults can view pigs, chickens, cattle, goats, an organic garden, and a Floral Clock while strolling though its gardens.

For all of you who love to go to the fair to enjoy its food, including you Foodies out there, at the Exhibit Promenade, the OC Fair is hosting The Art of Food & Food as Art attraction.

It will have a delicious and amazing culinary exhibit with an artful flair, and will include competitions, contests & and demonstrations–from ice carving, food sculpting and the crowd pleasing traditional pie eating contests.

If you’re into concerts, there are both paid events and free stage events. It just depends on what you want to do.

How about action sports? The 2010 OC Fair has those, too.

Of course, what county fair would be complete without a carnival?

Here’s the scoop on the 2010 OC Fair Carnival:

Every Wednesday and Thursday, you can purchase $25 Unlimited Ride Wristbands and $1 Games. It’s on sale until 5:00pm and valid until 8:00pm.

Can’t go on Wednesday or Thursday, how about going to the OC Fair on Friday?

$1 Rides Every Friday are valid until 7:00pm, but you must purchase a Fun Pass, which is available in $5, $20, $50 and $100 packages.

Don’t forget, the 2010 OC Fair, located at 88 Fair Dr. in Costa Mesa, is totally family friendly with animals galore, craft exhibits, gardening demonstrations, circus performers, and everything else listed above and more.

Indeed, if you come on different days, you’re sure to see something different every time.

OC Fair, here we come!

Maybe they’ll take you all the way to the Hollywood Sign.

Or they’ll help you discover Shakespeare.

Perhaps they’ll motivate you to get your blood pressure checked.

The best part of it all–is that it’s all here in this week’s edition of Travelin’ Local’s Los Angeles Free Friday.

Here’s the details:

On Saturday, July 17^th at 8:00am, Ranger Ernie will be leading a 7 mile hike starting at the Griffith Observatory parking lot and ending at the Hollywood Sign. Along the way, you’ll go from Mt. Hollywood Road to upper Mulholland Trail to Mt. Lee Drive, where you’ll take a small break. From there, all roads lead to the Hollywood Sign. I’ve taken this hike before and it’s the closest you can get to the famed Sign.

To have your blood pressure measured, along with body fat screenings, health demonstrations, or just want to learn more about how to best maintain your health, head to the 3^rd Street Promenade on Saturday, July 17^th from 11:00am to 4:00pm. Where else can you get a free yoga class and shop at the same time? Presented by the Santa Monica-UCLA Medical Center and Orthopedic Hospital, the Santa Monica Chamber Health & Fitness Festival will help to keep you in tip top shape.

This weekend is your last chance to see the Paris Women & Bicycles – Photographs by Gil Garcetti exhibit at the Annenberg Community Beach House, 415 Pacific Coast Hwy. For about four years, Gil Garcetti photographed women riding bicycles in Paris. Women of all ages, smartly dressed, used bicycles to get to work, visit friends, go shopping, go to the movies or the opera, and even rod their bicycles to go to funerals. They ride their bicycles because they have an environment that is safe and encourages the use of bicycles whenever possible. The event is open both Saturday and Sunday, July 17^th and 18^th from 10:00am to 4:00pm.

It’s time to get your bike out and visit Shakespeare at the same time. On Sunday, July 18^th at the CICLE Shakespeare Ride! it meets at 4:00pm at the Merry-Go-Round parking lot, at 4730 Crystal Springs Dr., in the City of Los Angeles, located just inside the Los Feliz/Riverside entrance intto Griffith Park. The ride starts promptly at 4:30pm, and will leisurely meander through Los Feliz to the Shakespeare Bridge. The ride will end just before 7:00pm at the Old Zoo in Griffith Park, just in time to watch the acclaimed Independent Shakespeare Co.’s production of Othello at their new summer stage. So, bring a blanket and snacks for the show.

As always, keep safe and for this weekend always have plenty of fluids handy to stay hydrated because of the warmer predicted for this weekend. Enjoy!

Born out of what used to be old oil fields, an earthquake fault and what had become a weed-infested, dusty lot; Vista Hermosa Park is a 10.5 acre treasure in a big city. Amazing, this park is downtown Los Angeles’ first new public park built since 1895.

Meaning “beautiful view” is Spanish, Vista Hermosa Park is located atop the hills on North Toluca Street, and does present wonderful vistas.

But, beautiful views are just one of the great features of this park:

All of the park buildings are topped with “green” planted roofs that retain rainwater and provide insulation, keeping the buildings warm in the winter and cool in the summer. In addition, not only do they save energy, the plants absorb CO2 and other pollutants from the atmosphere. Personally, I love the idea. More houses should have a roof top garden included.

Being a self-contained watershed, Vista Hermosa Park uses almost every drop either by watering the native Southern California drought resistant plants or capturing it to use for irrigation. By combining permeable surfaces like the parking lot and sidewalks, which allows the water to soak into the ground; and the underground cistern system, which captures water and reserves for the drier months, Vista Hermosa Park is an example of state of the art landscape design and sustainable technologies.

Adjoining the park is a FIFA-regulation soccer field, which is made of synthetic turf that requires no irrigation and allows for absorption of rainwater. It’s used jointly used by the adjacent Edward R. Roybal Learning Center and the LA Department of Recreation and Parks.

Other Vista Hermosa Park features include:

• Walking trails
• Meadows
• Picnic grounds
• A nature-themed playground

With only 33% of Los Angeles residents living within a quarter-mile of a park, compared to 97% for Boston and 91% for New York, Vista Hermosa Park is an example of how our city parks should be expanding and built. BTW, nationwide, the average park space per 1,000 residents is six to 10 acres; in Los Angeles it’s only 3.4 acres.

Vista Hermosa Park is a joint project of the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority and is definitely worth visiting.

Based on the beauty and thought put into Vista Hermosa Park, we can do better and build a few–or a lot more parks like this in Los Angeles.

Well, it’s much like what its name implies; it’s a bus that travels on water taking passengers to various stops along the way; public transit at its finest.

Where can you find the WaterBus?

It’s only available at the harbor at Marina del Rey. Of course, you can’t catch it just anywhere. Just as with any “normal” bus, the WaterBus has stops:

• Fisherman’s Village
• Burton Chace Park
• Waterfront Walk / Fire Station #110
• Marina Beach
• Dolphin Marina
• Esprit 1
• Marina Harbor

If you’re a map person like me, this will help:

When can you catch the WaterBus?

It’s only available on the weekends during the summer from now – September 7^th

• Fridays: 5:00pm to midnight
• Saturdays: 11:00am to midnight
• Sundays and Labor Day: 11:00am – 9:00pm
• Summer Concert Series (Thursday nights): 5:00pm – midnight
• Labor Day: 11:00am – 9:00pm

Okay, so now you know the what, where, and when of the WaterBus. What about the Why?

1. You get a bird’s eye view of the marina

2. You get to sit back and enjoy the ride

3. You’re using public transportation

4. It’s quick and easy

5. It only costs $1.00 one way

I took my first WaterBus trip when I was on my Marina del Rey bike ride, and it was the perfect ending to a wonderful day.

Do you live in downtown Los Angeles?

If you answered yes to both of these questions, then the Fourth Annual Downtown Dog Day Afternoon at the Cathedral on Tuesday, July 27^th, from 6pm – 9pm, is for you and your dog.

Everybody from all religious denominations is invited to enjoy an evening of music, food, getting to know your neighbors, their dogs, and just about everything pet related.

Here’s a few simple tips you should know before attending the Fourth Annual Downtown Dog Day Afternoon at the Cathedral:

• Downtown Dogs Only, Please!
• Downtowners without dogs are welcome, too! (A Downtowner is anyone who lives, works & plays in Downtown)
• Social Dogs Only, Please! Dogs must be on a leash and social
• Food and Drinks: No host bar and food by Levy Restaurants
• "Dodger Dogs" will be served to people only!
• Parking: $5.00 per vehicle at the Cathedral – 555 W. Temple Street

This event is free, but to register, click here.

Hey, it’s a Dog’s life but that’s the way it goes, so you might as well have fun at the same time.

Started in 1994, Smart Gardening is an easy way to get a really great looking yard while using less water, energy and wasting fewer resources. You save yourself time and money while doing something that helps keep Los Angeles County a nicer place to live and work.

Composting is the secret.

Backyard composting is “an attractive, simple method of managing organic wastes at home. It has the advantage of being readily adaptable to fit individual lifestyles, income, yard size, and overall ambition.”

By attending the Smart Gardening Workshops, sponsored by the County of Los Angeles’ Department of Public Works, Environmental Programs Division, you’re taught how to compost and all the associated benefits from doing so.

Each workshop is about an hour and a half, and takes place throughout the entire county.

Beginning workshops provide hands-on instruction on composting, worm composting, grasscycling, and water-wise and fire-wise gardening. Residents can purchase a backyard or worm composting bin at a discount at the workshops.

The first class starts this morning at 9:30am in Torrance at Columbia Park, but classes are held all over the county almost every Saturday until the end of November.

To help you find the class location near you, Travelin’ Local has created a map, which includes the day and time of the class. The map only includes the beginner levels, so if you’re interested in the advanced levels, please head over to the DWP:

View LA Smart Gardening Workshop Locations in a larger map

OK, I’ll admit, waking up to find it sprinkling in the morning this week was a little surprising, but by the afternoon, the sun was out, and the days were gorgeous!

Let’s face it, us Los Angelenos are totally weather spoiled. With 345 out of our 365 weather days virtually perfect, for all intents and purposes, no wonder people here expect every day to be perfect. Unfortunately, perfection isn’t nor has been the norm in Southern California. Just ask any local.

After growing up in the Midwest and living for 20+ years on the East Coast, I’ll testify–the weather in Los Angeles and Southern California, is pretty close to nirvana!

Here’s today weather in Los Angeles as reported by USAToday:

On the other hand here’s the weather in a few of our “brotherly’ cities across the USA:

After you’ve examined these little snippets, take a close look at the “Heat Index.” According to Wikipedia, the heat index is an “index that combines air temperature and relative humidity in an attempt to determine the human-perceived equivalent temperature — how hot it feels, termed the felt air temperature.”

Simply put, it’s how your body feels the minute you step outside the door and the humidity hits you smack dab in the face. It’s that feeling that you physically have by the fact you’re starting to sweat 3 minutes after you leave the confines of your air conditioning. It’s a heavy thickness of air that often times feels like you can cut it with a knife. People who’ve lived in Florida or other parts of the nation will tell you their own tales of woe.

If you’ve never experienced this type of high temperature mixed with humidity, you’re in for a real treat—just kidding. You don’t want to ever experience it.

So then fellow Los Angelenos, the next time you complain about June Gloom, especially when it’s happening in July, please think about all of those people who happen to live outside of Southern California who experience “worse weather” than us, and although they may not love it, they rejoice in the summer season before the snows of winter hit.

Full disclosure: a close friend of mine here is a California native who was born and raised in San Diego. He has told me tales when entire summers of June Gloom heavily blanketed the majority of the day with clouds at or near the beach never to lift–to an entire summer where the sun never appeared, not even once. Also, decades when none of it mattered and we had years of picture perfect weather.

June Gloom is a fact of life in Southern California and rather than see it as a minus to our weather, celebrate it as if it were just “part of the Southern California” family of facts that’s part of our common experience of living here in Paradise.

Oh, and by the way, if anyone asks how you found out about what’s going on around town, tell them “Why Travelin’ Local’s Free Friday, of course!.” Anyway for this week’s edition of Los Angeles Free Friday, you might want to do a little walking or a little learning–don’t yank at your wallet yet–all the events listed are free, so what are you waiting for?

If you’re up for a little hike on Saturday, July 10^th, you can join The Big Stroll. Starting at 8:00am at the corner of Pico Ave. and Main St. in downtown Los Angeles, The Big Stroll’s goal is to walk, at a fairly moderate pace, until the sand of the Pacific is reached. In all, it’s about 14.4 miles. Seeing LA from the ground level is the best way to experience the various cultures and neighborhoods. Here’s the map so you can visualize the route:

View The Big Stroll in a larger map

Folk Art Everywhere is hosting two walking events this weekend. On Saturday, July 10^th starting at about 11:00am and lasting until 1:00pm, the Leimert Park tour starts at the sculpture-like home of artist Timothy Washington, and then moves on with a visit to 3 amazing sites in downtown Leimert Park; Lucy Florence Cultural Center, Eso Won Books, and Adassa’s Island Café. At the last 3 stops, you’ll meet the shop owners, who will briefly talk about their spaces. Because this tour is starting at a private residence, the address isn’t given out, but please feel free to RSVP for the tour at workshops@cafam.org or if you decide to join at the last minute, Heidi Zeller, the Project Manager of Folk Art Everywhere, has graciously offered to accept the RSVP via her cell phone, (310)415.9451. Thanks, Helen.

On Sunday, July 11^th, Folk Art Everywhere will host another walking tour featuring Boyle Heights. Beginning at La Casa del Mariachi, 1831 E. 1st St. Los Angeles, from 11:30pm until 1:00pm, you’ll meet the area’s expert and shop owner, who’ll briefly talk about the art of making mariachi garments and accessories, with many gorgeous examples on display. After that, the neighborhood tour will be lead by James Rojas. No RSVP is necessary for this tour. For both tours, don’t forget to wear comfortable walking shoes.

Billed as “LA’s largest outdoor Green Festival,” the Venice Eco-Fest 2010, will be a day of learning about environmentally friendly products you can have in your home, green retrofits you might like to find out more about, and simple green solutions for everyday problems. All day music will be performed on a Solar-powered Sound Stage, a Kid’s and Family Court with exotic animals, interactive art and music shenanigans, plus a Venice Cooperative Art Exhibit and a delicious vegetarian food court. Starting on Saturday, July 10^th at 10:00am and lasting until 6:00pm, the Venice Beach Recreation Area at Windward Ave. and Ocean Front Walk is where you can enter and enjoy the Venice Eco-Fest. Here’s a video of last year’s event:

Don’t forget about the Community Redevelopment Agency of Los Angeles’ events, tours, and exhibits which we wrote about yesterday and all of the Free Movies, Concerts, and Museum Days being held this weekend:

Therefore, the Community Redevelopment Agency of Los Angeles (CRA/LA) is hosting free tours on this Saturday, July 10^th.

Usually I feature these events in Travelin’ Local’s Free Friday column, but because you need to call ahead for reservations for the CRA’s events, I wanted to give you a heads up.

To help with interested citizens to understand the depth and complexity of the CRA/LA’s accomplishments there will be a series of tours, exhibitions, and events offered by the CRA/LA, and other downtown organizations, tour operators, cultural institutions, and event participants will share how the CRA/LA has transformed downtown Los Angeles.

The CRA/LA’s mission is "to make strategic investments to create economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for the people who live and work in our neighborhoods.”

To help see and learn about many of CRA/LA’s projects, redevelopment areas, success stories, and swaths of downtown that they’ve literally changed, here’s their list of tours and exhibits:

Downtown Center Business Improvement District Housing Bus Tour:

On this extensive, four-hour bus tour, which begins at 9:00am-1:00pm, participants will visit a sampling of six or seven residencies – both for sale and for lease – among 75 existing residential properties, and many more under construction.  It’s free but click the link above to register.

CRA/LA Art Program Walking Tours – South Park, Historic Core, and the Financial Core:

Streets, parks and public buildings in the CRA/LA’s, Central Business District redevelopment project area, contain a wide variety of artworks paid for by developers’ percent-for-art contributions. Join CRA/LA staff, interns, and a conservation associate for a one hour docent tour.

South Park: Begins at 10:00am and meets at the FIDM entrance, 919 Grand Avenue, at the winged figure by Gwynn Murrill (near the corner of 9th and Grand Ave).

The Historic Core: Begins at 11:30am and 2:00pm, and will meet at Biddy Mason Park, located at the center of the Paseo between Broadway and Spring Street, at Broadway’s Spring Center.

The Financial Core’s CRA/LA commissioned public art: Begins at 11:30am and 2:00pm and will meet at the Fine Arts Building – 811 W. 7^th Street (7^th St. east of Figueroa).

These tours are free, but participants must RSVP in advance to Amanda Bromberg, at the Community Arts Resources, (213)365-0605, by Friday, July 9^th,beginning at 10am. Only the first 14 RSVP’s will be accommodated for each tour.

GRAMMY Museum Tour:

The Grammy Museum is more than just a celebration of music’s most prestigious award.  It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that invites you to look behind the curtain.  On July 10^th, at 1:00pm, the public is invited to take part in a special tour of the Grammy Museum.  The tour will last approximately 40 minutes and it’s also a free event.  Tour participants will meet the tour guide in the Grammy Museum Lobby, located at 800 West Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90015.  Participants must RSVP in advance to Amanda Bromberg at Community Arts Resources, (213)365.0605, by 10am on Friday, July 9^th.  Only the first 25 RSVP’s will be accommodated.

FIDM’s “Disney Alice in Wonderland Design Exhibition:”

The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising Museum & Galleries, located at 919 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, in downtown’s South Park neighborhood is currently presenting their “Disney Alice in Wonderland Design Exhibition.”  The exhibit will be open on Saturday, July 10^th, from 10am to 4:00pm. Entrance to the exhibit is free.  For more information, please call (213)624.1201, or clink the link.

Metro Public Art Tour:

Metro is pleased to offer “CRA/LA in the CBD” participants a specially designed public art tour of the eclectic artwork present throughout the Central Business District Rail Stations. Led by a trained Metro Docent Council volunteer, this unique public art tour is free to the public and will only be available for viewing on Saturday, July 10^th. Tours last approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, and begin at 10:30am and 1:00pm.  Tours will depart from and end at the 7th/Metro Station, on the street level.  Look for the Metro Art Docent in the bright yellow vest. Metro stations to visit include: Pershing Square, Civic Center, Union Station, and Pico. Tour participants will receive a free, ride-all-day Metro pass at the beginning of the tour. Walk-ups are welcome, however, only the first 35 participants will be accommodated.

Docent Tour of Central Library:

Come downtown and visit Los Angeles’ Public Library’s state of the art Central Library, located at 630 W. 5^th St., Los Angeles, CA 90071.  Docent-led tours begin at 11:00am and 2:00pm on Saturday, July 10^th, and participants will meet in the front of the Library Store in the main lobby, accessible via the Fifth Street, Hope Street, and Flower Street entrances. The Tours are free and open to the public. No reservations are necessary, but tours are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.

BEING PEDESTRIAN Walking Tour:

BEING PEDESTRIAN, is a cultural tourism campaign based upon walking, and is a collaboration between artists Sara Daleiden, Sara Wookey and the Community Redevelopment Agency of Los Angeles. With its playful prompts, BEING PEDESTRIAN invites the experience of our public spaces of common sidewalks and crosswalks in consideration of the invisible decisions that form our common streetscape. The tour begins at 3pm on Saturday, July 10^th and is free. The tour lasts for approximately 1 hour and will meet at Grand Hope Park at the corner of 9^th Street and Hope. Participants must RSVP in advance to Amanda Bromberg at Community Arts Resources, (213)365.0605, by 10am on Friday, July 9^th. Only the first 14 RSVP’s will be accommodated.

Downtown Walking Tours with the LA Conservancy:

The Los Angeles Conservancy’s Walking Tour Program explores the history and heart of this amazing city through the interpretation of L.A.’s unique architectural resources.  On Saturday, July 10th, the LA Conservancy will offer its Historic Core Tour, the Art Deco Tour, the Downtown Renaissance: Spring & Main Tour, and the Broadway Historic Theatre and Commercial District Tour.  All tours begin at 10 am.  Tours average 2.5 hours and include 1 to 2 miles of total walking.  Meeting locations for each tour vary.  For information on the exact meeting location of your tour and to purchase advanced tickets, please visit the link above.

Tickets for LA Conservancy Members and Kids 12 & and under are $5; tickets for non-members are $10.  All tours allow day-of, walk-up participants, except the Broadway District Tour.

The LA Conservancy is pleased to offer “CRA/LA in the CBD” participants with a two-for-one promotion.  Enjoy two-for-one admission for any regularly scheduled tour at the non-member rate.  Advance reservations required; not valid for walk-ins.  One discount per guest per tour.  Offer valid through August 12^th, online or by phone.  To reserve, visit www.laconservancy.org/tours or call
(213)623-2489 and use discount code “CRA35.”

During my bike ride in Marina last week, a family asked how me how to get to Venice. At the time, I was on a side street off the beaten path, and really wasn’t sure how to answer. In fact, I told them I thought Venice was about 4 miles away. Then they pulled out a map, which showed it was much closer. I was surprised. After all of us consulted the map, we figured out the best way for them to get there was via Ocean Avenue.

However, I wondered if there wasn’t a better and more scenic way to get from Venice to Marina del Rey—and vice versa. As yours truly loves to do Travelin’ Local’s research, this project was no different.

Is it possible to go from Venice to Marina del Rey via the Venice Canals and Ballona Creek?

Because I was totally new to this section of Ballona Creek, and have only been to the Canals twice before, I wasn’t completely knowledgeable about the best course to get from one place to another–but, I quickly learned.

After you enter the Venice Canals from Venice Boulevard, take a break and enjoy a walk through the canals. If it’s your first time here, you might want to look around as well. If you’re just going to Marina del Rey, just keep heading straight.

Once you reach Washington Boulevard, you’re faced with two choices–the obvious one is taking the trail to the left, but there’s also a trail on the right. Take the one to the left:

As you can see by the construction material in the photo, the ongoing restoration of the plant ecosystem is being heralded by volunteers. Here’s a photo taken on June 26^th, via the Ballona Institute’s facebook page:

If you noticed the trail on the right side, you can walk it for a while, until, at the end, you’ll find this:

I admit, this is a beautiful scene, except for the end of the sidewalk–it would be great if a walking bridge was built here connecting this trail with the trail on the other side of the lagoon.

But, by following the trail on the left as mentioned above, you’ll discover this trail also ends, sort of. After you pass a high rise apartment building, the trail turns into Via Dolce Street.

Turn right here and follow the sidewalk. You can’t see the canal, but Via Dolce leads right to the orange house at the far left of the photo above. That’s where the trail starts up again, leading past the beautiful scenery, bird habitats, and wonderful architecture.

From here, you can see where I made my earlier mistake:

See the sidewalk that ends on the right– I was standing there a few minutes ago.

To help you retrace and show my hike from Venice to Marina del Rey, I traced my steps and put them in the map below:

View Walking from Venice to Marina del Rey in a larger map

What will you find once you reach Marina del Rey or in the alternative what will you do once you reach Venice and its beautiful canals?

Amazing that each of the two beautiful spots are less than 2 miles away. To make a day of it, take your bike along and do the Marina del Rey Biking Route. Just be ready to walk your bike for a while. No bikes are allowed on the Ballona Creek Walking Trail.

What can I say? I love living in Los Angeles!