Travelin' Local » Santa Monica

The Travelin’ Local Santa Monica Walking Tour

D. J. Schwartz — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 14:12:10 +0000

It’s an undeniable medical fact that walking is good for you, your body and mind. Besides the obvious health benefits of walking, it’s great to be outside in doing so–and as is the case in most of Southern California–we do so with the foresight and knowledge that we have among the most moderate and sunny temperatures in the world; and more frequently than not, the sun will be shining most of the time.

So when walking here or–participating in outside activities–(always use proper sunscreen or sunblock), to protect your skin and body from the sun’s harmful UV rays, to fully enjoy the sights and sounds of beautiful Southern California without worry, as skin cancer is one of the leading forms of cancer–and we don’t want that.

Therefore, with that in mind, and perhaps you might want to bring along some water to not get dehydrated.

So let’s now embark on our journey.

As a matter of fact, in the huge metropolis we call Los Angeles–one can walk in different neighborhood locales and always enjoy the sights, sounds, history and architecture that we call home.

With an overwhelming positive response from not just locals but also people from round the world alike, Travelin’ Local’s Tours Walking Tours, provide an important, hip and cool ability to do so, in a healthy and educational way to discover different locations here which often go unnoticed in our own backyard.

To enjoy the many unique sections of Los Angeles we’ve created different walking tours for its different areas; but for this story our focus is dedicated to the ephemeral and beautiful city of Santa Monica.

To get your body active and enjoy the many magnificent and unique sights here for everyone–including Santa Monica’s residents, LA’s diverse denizens and guests here from around the world, we’ve assembled seven scenic walks, each in various parts of the city which which highlight Santa Monica’s parks, art, and of course, where applicable, the beach.

The concept and idea is WALK Santa Monica… a daily "10,000 steps" program designed to encourage active living and walking as a means of promoting fitness, wellness and a more livable community.

Because I’m an dedicated user of of Google maps, I use the information gathered create individual custom maps.

For each walk, a PDF was created with a map and details of the walk, and if you click the map’s icon, there’s also a link for each particular stop.

View Walk Santa Monica in a larger map

Since the previous Public Art Walk here, a few changes have been updated since the original PDF was created.

One of the artworks which was featured, Santa Monica Art Tool: "Walk on L.A." by Carl Cheng, is no longer part of the walk.

Because too many people were climbing on it, the city decided it was a civic decided that that artwork was a public hazard and subsequently moved it into storage.

You can still see it–but only from behind a fence.

Also, in this updated Santa Monica Public Art Walk, there were a few pieces of art that have been added so they have been included in this updated version.

So, the next time you’re looking for a little exercise with panache and style, I would first suggest one of Travelin’ Local’s Walking Tours,

For Santa Monica, sights and sounds abound in this wonderful place.

Santa Monica Place – A Shopping Mecca

D. J. Schwartz — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 14:11:02 +0000

As the Holiday season approaches, shopping for gifts begins to occupy our minds, actions, and pocketbooks. But, it can be fun as well; and if you’re looking for “the” perfect place to shop, this is it.

Its located two blocks from the beach and is directly tangential to the famous 3^rd Street Promenade.

The open air and breezy at Santa Monica Place which features many stores including its anchor tenant Nordstrom Department Store.

Included here are such famous and beloved band name stores as Michael Kors; as well as they hyper hip brand of Joe’s Jeans.

This place is for “fashinistas,” and the bottom line is this is where the rubber hits the road, and you’ll be able to meet your exact, chic and special shopping needs here year round; because whatever your desire, need or want, you’ll find it here–at “>Santa Monica Place

Just a little over a year ago, Santa Monica Place’s grand opening was front page news and now it’s another place in town to find that special something; or to spend an idle afternoon or day here relaxing over a leisurely lunch or a to mellow out and to kick back after a hard days work.

It’s just another day in paradise to be sure; but also a place for walking around to celebrate your surroundings in beautiful Santa Monica–window shopping, people watching or just having fun with a friend.

With its approximately 80 stores and restaurants on three separate levels, it’s really an amazing place for everyone to come here and have fun–leave your troubles behind for awhile.

Although parking in Santa Monica is a never ending battle, until 12/31/11, you’ll receive three free hours of valet parking included with your meal at Blue Stove in Nordstrom, The Curious Palate, Forty Carrots at Bloomingdale’s, La Sandia, Ozumo, Pizza Antica, Primi al Mercato, Sonoma Wine Garden, True Food Kitchen, Xino or Zengo.

Since I live close by, my best option for coming here is taking Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus, to walk around the area and beach, while doing some window shopping as well.

Lord knows, I’ve got enough shoes, handbags, and clothes; but as the saying goes, a woman can never have too much for her fashion needs, and Santa Monica Place is that perfect place to find that extra “something” for your wardrobe or for a gift for anyone you know.

Santa Monica’s New ‘Teaching Biking Skills Road Course’

D. J. Schwartz — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 15:30:37 +0000

Last night, I received an email from the Santa Monica Spoke, a regional chapter of the Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalitionan organization dedicated to improving bicycle conditions and the concomitant infrastructure required to support the same–for the City of Santa Monica.

After working for over a year, Ron Durgin from Sustainable Streets, a nonprofit organization committed to building healthy communities by encouraging people of all ages and backgrounds to engage in “active transportation” for their everyday mobility needs.

As noted, just as every journey starts with the first turns of a bike’s few wheels; Santa Monica Spoke has been successful in securing a teaching area for bike classes at the beach.

Now, Santa Monica will be one of the few local cities near Los Angeles, to have a permanent bike teaching area.

Although I haven’t seen it for myself, Richard McKinnon, chairman of the Bike It! Day at Santa Monica High School, and Santa Monica’s Spoke Commissioner, included some great pictures in his email:

Classes start in October!

The Top 12 Cheap Eats in Santa Monica

D. J. Schwartz — Sun, 11 Sep 2011 16:52:52 +0000

If you’ve ever visited or live in Santa Monica, you know it can get expensive at times. With a median home price, according to CNN Money’s 2010 numbers,the median priced home in this community is $820,000.

Ergo, Santa Monica isn’t cheap.

But, who can resist the beaches, walking on the Pier, or strolling in Palisades Park.

Averaging over 310 days of sunshine, it’s easy to see why people flock here.

However, because living on a budget, eating out can be tough stuff in this part of Los Angeles, in order to eat at a reasonable cost.

Well, no look farther than Travelin’ Local’s list of the top 12 cheap eats in Santa Monica.

It varies from vegetarian to burgers to breakfast; to be su, this list has a wide variety to choose from. So, without further ado, here is the list:

1. Bagel Nosh Deli
1629 Wilshire Boulevard
(310) 451-8771

2. Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery
1517 Lincoln Boulevard
(310) 395-8279

3. Big Jo’s
1955 Broadway Street
(310) 828-3191

4. California Chicken Cafe
2401 Wilshire Boulevard
(310) 453-0477

5. Flying Saucers Caffeine and Art
306 Pico Boulevard
(415) 533-5185

6. Greens Up! Salads
703 Montana Avenue
(310) 394-1111

7. Hungry Pocket
1715 Pico Boulevard
(310) 450-5335

8. La Playita
3306 Lincoln Boulevard
(310) 452-0090

9. Tacos Por Favor
1406 Olympic Boulevard
(310) 392-5768

10. Tada
1814 Berkeley Street
(310) 586-7419

11. Thai Vegan
2400 Main Street
(310) 581-4255

12. The Cutting Board
3330 Ocean Park Boulevard
(310) 450-9595

What other restaurants would you add to the list?

Iif you need a map to find all of these eating venues–here ya go:

View Top 12 Cheap Eats in Santa Monica in a larger map

Santa Monica’s Pacific Ocean Park

Lisa Newton — Fri, 27 May 2011 15:20:08 +0000

It’s amazing how, over the years, buildings come and landmarks go. About a mile and a half from the present day Santa Monica Pier, right at the corner of Bernard Way and Neilson Way, Santa Monica had an amusement park that was slated to give Disney World a run for its money.

Well, clearly Disney World was the prevailing party.

Opening Saturday, July 28, 1958, Pacific Ocean Park, or POP for short, consisted of 28 acres of fun–rides, food, theatrical shows, and much more–all based on a nautical theme.

On its first day of operation it attracted 20,000 people.

Here’s a great video of POP from that opening day:

At the outrageous price of $.90, which included most of the 27 rides and special attractions, POP was a great way for families to spend time together. Considered a bit revolutionary at the time, POP also stood for Pay One Price, so for just the cost of admission, most attractions were accessible.

By January 5, 1959, Pacific Ocean Park had attracted 1,190,000 visitors.

Unfortunately, the fun didn’t last. Due in part to neglect, mismanagement, and to Santa Monica’s need to renew itself, the Park’s proceeds started to decline in 1966, and ultimately it was shut down in October 1967.

This shot pf POP courtesy of the Santa Monica Public Library, was taken on June 25^th, 1975:

Lastly in 1974, after a fire destroyed the last vestiges of the rotting remaining elements of the Park, the City was forced to rid itself of POP’s last lingering pieces.

Now with the Park gone, part of Santa Monica’s beach that the Park used to be situated is part of the beach’s sand and ocean front.

While passing by, most people have no idea that at one time, hundreds of thousands of people used to have fun at a huge amusement park here.

La Mesa Drive Walking Tour

Lisa Newton — Tue, 03 May 2011 20:00:23 +0000

Los Angeles is richly diverse in our people, history, culture, and ethnicity. Each day, I walk around befuddled that people are always wondering what to do or where to go–from visiting the world famous Hollywood of new and old; to the colorful and wonderfully distinct neighborhood of Boyle Heights; or the hills high above Los Angeles and Beverly Hills on Mulholland Drive.

Each and every place here has a story and uniqueness to tell, and by documenting them we get to illustrate their histories, the people and entities that helped to make them what they were and are now, and how the great melting pot of Los Angeles has literally and figuratively hundreds, if not thousands, of untold tales, autobiographies, lore, and folktales that makes us truly one of the great city’s of the world.

One such Place is a small Street in Santa Monica named La Mesa Drive:

Hidden behind these glorious Moreton Fig trees is a small street filled with inherent charm and splendor; respite with its unique beauty, and strident and playful architecture. It’s a slice right out of our city’s cultural history, and it also happens to be a phenomenally interesting neighborhood.

Indeed, the La Mesa Drive neighborhood is emblematic of how Los Angeles came to be and looks today.

Its history is its future, yet not born, but will be part of its past.

Public Art at the Yahoo! Center

Lisa Newton — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 18:45:01 +0000

On Martin Luther King Day, I decided to visit the Yahoo! Center Park.

This wonderful parcel of land in Santa Monica, has many splendorous–and perfectly maintained–blades of grass for both Yahoo! employees, and the general public to enjoy.

Along with its immaculate manicured lawns, the Yahoo! Center Park has both tennis and basketball courts, alongside ample areas to relax and take in some sun, fresh or indulge with a picnic.

Even more rewarding as you delve further into the Yahoo! Center Park, is that it’s home to three wonderful pieces of Public Art.

Even better, they’re all totally off the grid and beaten path.

If you’re not brown bagging lunch, just round the corner is the Daily Grill, which is located inside the Yahoo! Center building, you probably haven’t seen this Giant Pitcher, featured below:

Now, I’m not sure if the water wasn’t flowing on the day I was there because it was before business hours, or if the water is just turned off, but regardless, you definitely get the feel of this large piece.

Scattered among the tables, this water pitcher, which stands at least 10 feet high, fits in very nicely with its surroundings.

After passing by the eating enclave you’ll see this rather Unique Bench:

Although the seating is limited to a party of one, I was able to indulge and pay homage to the Public Artwork.

Aptly enough, sometimes Public Art plays duel roles:–as both a glorious piece of Art, and simultaneously providing a practical purpose. At first blush, neither the water pitcher or bench artist’s names are displayed on the works, despite my further investigation. I’m sure however, if I contacted the office building’s owners they would be able to proffer up the 411!

Nonetheless, sometimes it really doesn’t matter, as you’re still able to appreciate the object matter:

This whimsical group of ball players is the creation of JoeSam., an artist whose work can be seen throughout the nation.

I was born and raised in Harlem, New York City. I vividly remember looking at colors and textures. I spent a lot of time looking at hues of peeling paint. It was that old lead-based paint that peeled periodically, especially when the ceiling leaked. We always had these incredible designs on our walls.
I am a mixed media artist. Whenever possible I use materials in the state in which they were found. Whatever the media, the surface if my work is textured or shaped. My work reflects the fact that I’m a Black artist. My colors, patterns, and designs are multi-faceted and combine many parallel elements in a single piece of work analogous to the way African derived music combines parallel rhythmic and melodic elements. The content of my work reflects issues and ideas concerning people of color.

JoeSam.’s work can also be found at the Rosa Parks Metro Station, which is a major transfer point for the Blue and Green Lines. Just look up at the ceiling under the station, and you can’t help but smile:

It’s been my experience that you never know when you’ll collide with Public Art as it’s part of life’s living in the moment.

The Yahoo! Center Park in Santa Monica

Lisa Newton — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 15:50:18 +0000

Although I’ve passed by this park many times, I never took notice of all of its features until recently, when I actually decided a few days ago to stop and take a closer look.

From the outside, the Yahoo! Center–a public park of all things–is located at 26^th and Broadway in Santa Monica, is an unassuming building.

But once I walked into the park and courtyard, literally in Yahoo!’s building’s backyard, I must confess that I was both taken aback by what’s inside the park and courtyard.

Silly me, after all these years, I’ve come to find out that an entirely different world exists right down the street from my office, and where I could have been working out these past few years!

YAHOO! How totally cool and awesome is that?

You can play basketball, walk, or get a good upper body workout here.

Also, I can use the bars for pull-ups, isometrics, and stretching. Of course, relaxing by a garden, while enjoying your lunch is a given:

Or I could play a spirited game of tennis, a sport I love.

So, the next time you’re headed toward Santa Monica, or even live there, go to the Yahoo! Center because life isn’t always something that passes you by and Yahoo! isn’t just about that huge global website conglomerate.

In other words, Just Do It!

It’s Time for the Santa Monica Pub Crawl

Lisa Newton — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 15:19:45 +0000

With the Holidays inching closer, it’s that time again.

Time for the Santa Monica Pub Crawl

Starting on Saturday, December 18^th at 5:00pm, the 2nd Annual Santa Monica Pub Crawl, is an annual adventure exploring Santa Monica’s best bars and restaurants.

To top off the festivities, the Santa Pub Crawl is going to raise money and food for those in need, through a partnership with the Westside Food Bank.

Last year’s Crawl, with over 2,000 participants, raised 4,000 pounds of food for charity.

For this year’s event, three possible routes are being featured:

And last but not least, if I forgot to mention it, there’s also going to be two after parties:

So now that we have your full attention how do you get the 411?

To sign up, just click on the picture above.

Since it’s that time of year again, let the festivities begin……………………..

The 6th Annual Los Angeles International Children’s Film Festival

Lisa Newton — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 15:15:33 +0000

Los Angeles hosts many film festivals.

Ranging from the Los Angeles Film Festival to the current ongoing American Film Institute (AFI) Film Festival, there are many more to choose from–including the Silver Lake Film Festival, The American Black Film Festival, Outfest – the LA Gay and Lesbian Film Festival, and the Jules Verne Adventure Film Festival.

To smaller ones including Dances With Films or the Valley Film Festival.

Being the birthplace of the Motion Picture Arts & Sciences, Los Angeles is the birthplace of Film and Television.

For the most part, Film Festival’s are very serious events. As far as child friendly events; well they’re not, because they’re not supposed to be.

Perhaps when your children are older, they’ll be able to appreciate Film Festivals, but very few 7 year-olds will likely get it.

Unless, of course, it’s the 6th Annual Los Angeles International Children’s Film Festival.

Featuring short films from around the world – animation, live action and documentary – they’re all made for children and teens.

This year’s free event is being held at the Martin Luther King Jr. Theater in Santa Monica, adjacent to Santa Monica’s Main City Library, at 601 Santa Monica Boulevard. It starts this coming Saturday:

Here’s the schedule:

Saturday, Nov. 13^th: 10:00 – 11:00pm

Program #1: Short films for all ages

A World Without Numbers
Chubbie & Cheesy – A Very Special Umbrella
Footprints
Out on a Limb
Picture Window
Sharing
The Little Things
The Locket & the Sea
The Smallest Thing

Saturday, November 13^th: 11:00 – 12:00pm

Program #2: Short films for all ages

Alex & Alex
Electric Car
Luna
Mission H20
New Digs
Sparky
Suds
Test Anxiety
The Gift
The Gift of the Magi
Tom & Esther Learn Lessons
Toothnapped

Saturday, November 13^th 12:00pm – 1:00pm

Program #3: Short films for ages 7 and older

Box of Buttons
Flight Training
Foursquare Day
Kabamir
Mbegu
Shpourky & Ombra
The League of Imaginary Heroes
The Sun Jar
Tratado de Liligrafia
Young Love

In Los Angeles, there’s always something for someone.

Mapping Santa Monica’s Designated Landmarks

Lisa Newton — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 19:23:57 +0000

In case you didn’t already realize, I’m a big lover of maps. When I was young, my father used to get out a big atlas and start quizzing me and my siblings on various important landmarks on the maps.

In fact, when I was in the 7^th grade, one of the first activities my US History teacher did was quiz the entire class on about which were all of the nation’s capitals, and yours truly was the only student who knew them all.

I’m not sure if I still remember them all–but if not, I know that I can always refer to a map to find out.

So, when I came across a list of the City of Santa Monica’s Designated Landmarks (PDF), I became very excited, because you must have been living under a rock during the years Google has developed an application with their maps division—aptly titled Google Maps, which comes in extremely handy in having them as a trusted guide, as well as it is equally useful in creating various types of maps which literally span the globe in a person’s ability from their favorite places, guides, or walks, and the numerous applications which show how usefulness as “a map” of the world its become useful for ordinary people and programmer it’s really become.

Established in 1975, the stated goal of the Landmarks Commission of Santa Monica was clear from the beginiing:

To protect improvements and areas which represent the City’s cultural, social, economic, political and architectural history; safeguard the City’s historic, aesthetic and cultural heritage; and promote the use of landmarks and historic districts for the education, pleasure and welfare of the people.

Contained within Santa Monica’s 89 Designed Landmarks are several trees, many apartment buildings, private houses, and of course, one very large park. Unfortunately, some older landmarks have been made way for the new, hey but that’s what we call “progress,” right? Well, to be perfectly honest, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

But, each of the remaining Santa Monica Designated Landmarks does indeed offers a unique look at a small city–but one with a rich and varied cultural and vital history.

I’m sure you have probably passed by many of these houses, without even realizing–or knowing–their significance.

All of the information to create this map was obtained from the City of Santa Monica Planning and Community Development Department.

Last updated on June 12, 2009, the Designated Landmarks list map shows approximate locations and if you click the icons, you’ll find more information, for example, the date it was designated, the time it was developed, the name of the architect or builder, etc..

Bear in mind many of these map locations were done specifically for you–Travelin’ Local’s readers, to have some fun exploring many of Santa Monica’s past historical and cultural historic locations:

View Santa Monica Landmarks in a larger map

Google Maps, Metro, and the Big Blue Bus

Lisa Newton — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 01:53:17 +0000

The news is out, the Big Blue Bus finally made it to Google maps. Although it’s great news, it’s also about time.

After reading this news, I thought I’d play with Google a little bit to see how well Metro, and the Big Blue work together.

After all, the Big Blue Bus–for the most part–only runs in Santa Monica, so connecting with the Metro buses is a real boon for our great city.

So to test out my curiosity about the new merging of the Big Blue and Metro Buses on Google, I plugged in 600 Ocean Park Boulevard, in Santa Monica, and then 100 South Grand Avenue in Downtown, Los Angeles.

As you can see below, they worked together seamlessly:

Then the real fun came as I subsequently changed the departure time. In this example, the route above was for a 5:15pm departure, which will take about and hour and 35 minutes.

But here is how it looks at 4:00pm departure:

On this route, you can get downtown using only the Big Blue. BTW, this route takes about an hour and 37 minutes.

This is the same route at 8:00am–which takes approximately an 1 hour and 14 minutes, to get from one point to the other.

If you’re planning to leave to travel at about 9:00pm, Metro is your only choice:

If for some reason, you find yourself in Santa Monica at 3:00am, you still have options:

This route, which isn’t exactly a beeline to downtown–but if you’ve had a little too much to drink–it’s a great way to get where you want to go without hassle or worry. This route’s time frame takes about an hour and 39 minutes.

After looking at all the options available, I–and probably everybody else that takes both the Big Blue and the Metro, will be happy to have this new feature now on Google maps, and if you’re lucky, your friendly smart phone.

The Santa Monica Stairs Walk isn’t for the Meek

Lisa Newton — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 20:47:21 +0000

One of the things Los Angeles is known for, and maybe not so known for, is its various stairways.

Although most of our fair city’s steps are located in the Silver Lake – Echo Park regions, a few of them also call Santa Monica home, as well.

The most famous of the Santa Monica steps–are the two sets off Adelaide Street;which are located right off San Vicente Boulevard and 4^th Street.

On any given day–as well as any given time–you’ll always find people climbing up and down these two stairways:

Sweat dripping, heavy breathing, workout attire varying from basic sweats to high end leotards, and of course, sneakers are part of the ambiance.

Although I’m not a regular step climber, my experiences here have always been positive–most here, are usually very friendly.

Everyone understands why they are there–to have a great workout that’s free, and the fact that everyone respects their space; along with everyone elses.

Anytime you go, you’ll see professional workouts taking place. In fact, you’ll often find vans loaded with all the basic necessities you’ll find in a small gym, kettle-balls, weights, mats, etc.

Here’s a map of the Santa Monica 4^th, Street Stair Walk:

View Santa Monica Short Stairs Walk in a larger map

The west stairs closest to 4^th Street, are concrete and narrow, with a couple of turns.

Further down, the east steps are wooden and wider. With the combined stairways and the loop, the total mileage is almost ½ mile. I think you’ll discover that the walking in between the stairways is another way way to catch your breath, as you’re determined to “shake that body.”

If you really want a complete 100% workout,– ride your bike to the stairs; but if you drive, there is free parking on Adelaide Street.

However, due to street cleaning, you can’t park on Adelaide Street from 9:00 to 11:00am on Fridays. And if your desired time is to park after 6:00pm, you might have a little trouble finding the space–but I’m pretty sure you can still park on San Vicente at anytime of the day.

Here’s the Santa Monica Stairs:

Now, don’t just sit there, let’s get to them now!

Los Angeles Free Friday

Lisa Newton — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 15:30:31 +0000

Yesterday, while talking to a friend of mine she blurted out “Is it September 23^rd already?” (suddenly realizing that another summer has come and gone so quickly).

Yes, and that’s how sometimes things move so fast–especially time. It’s hard to believe that September is almost over and then Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the New Year will be right around the corner.

We all want to relax this weekend, but with all the fun free things happening, that might prove to be a bit difficult, as they’re so many places to go and things to do and choose from, we better get started:

If you haven’t visited the Watts Tower, this weekend would be the perfect time. On Saturday, the 34^th Annual Simon Rodia Watts Towers Jazz Festival, LA’s first Jazz festival will feature performances from both established and emerging musicians from the area. The festival pays tribute to the roots of Jazz in Gospel and Blues. This year features an impressive line-up with headliner, jazz great, Randy Weston, celebrating his 85th birthday and the publication of his autobiography.

The Annual Watts Towers Day of the Drum Festival, is on Sunday, which will be a daylong celebration featuring international percussion: Latin, Japanese, African, Jazz, Native American, and other drummers. (How cool is that!). Tours of the Watts Tower, which is located at 1727 E. 107th St. will be available both days. On both days, the action starts at 11:00am and lasts until 6:00pm.

If you go to Watts on Saturday, you’ll still have plenty of time to head to Santa Monica for Glow 2010. Starting at 7:00pm, the Santa Monica Beach will be transformed into an “all-night cultural experience featuring original commissions by artists that re-imagine Santa Monica Beach as a playground for thoughtful and participatory temporary artworks.” At the first Glow in 2008, over 200,000 people enjoyed over 100 artists in 27 different performances. Glow 2010 commissioned 20 original artworks specifically for this one-night event. This dusk to dawn event ends at 3:00am.

Do you want a chance to see some of the best Chinese cultural performers in the country, from Shaolin Warriors performing martial arts, to acrobatic contortionists to a troupe of roaming Lion Dancers? Head over to Chinatown’s Central and West Plaza on Saturday from 5:00pm until 12:00am. The 72^nd Annual Chinatown Mid-Autumn Moon Festival, celebrated in China as a homage to the bright mid-autumn harvest moon and the end of the summer growing season, is a time for reflection and thanksgiving, but it’s also a time to celebrate—and no one does it better than Los Angeles’ own Chinatown. Plus, there will be plenty of shopping is in store with Chinatown’s unique merchants and LA Craft Experience, LA’s premiere arts, design and crafts market, features over 50 independent vendors throughout Los Angeles.

If you’re unable to attend the Santa Monica Glow celebration Saturday, why not head downtown for Autumn Lights LA.

“It is a multi-media showcase featuring the best of Los Angeles’ emerging and established local and international artists presenting various forms of performances, sculptures, installations, and projections utilizing the medium of light.”

Autumn Lights will be held on both Saturday and September from 7:00pm until 1:00am, at Pershing Square, which will be literally transformed for an incredible range of illuminations and projections which will light up the area’s park sculptures and surrounding buildings.

Don’t forget, from 9:00am to 12:00pm, Saturday is Coastal Clean-up Day, which I’ve already written about. But, what I didn’t mention is that Saturday is also National Public Lands Day, the nation’s largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance the public lands Americans enjoy. The event also encourages volunteers to explore and enjoy America’s natural wonders through outdoor recreation. To find a location near you, here’s the link. BTW, last year’s volunteers:

Removed an estimated 900,000 lbs of trash

Collected an estimated 20,000 lbs of invasive plants

Built and maintained an estimated 1,320 miles of trails

Planted an estimated 100,000 trees, shrubs and other native plants

Contributed an estimated $14 million to improve public lands across the country

Saturday, September 25^th is Youth Arts & Media Festival, a one-day celebration of youth arts and media in Los Angeles. It will feature films, photos, music, poetry, workshops and more. The Youth Arts & Media is a partnership of community-based organizations that are committed to providing teens and young adults in Los Angeles County with have free access to high quality, technology-intensive media arts, visual and music education, and the Festival is one of the highlights of the year; especially so as the melding of the arts and technology is an important part of our knowledge and way we relate to the world.

Celebrating a diversity of work from youth throughout Los Angeles County, the event will include a juried exhibition featuring 100 photographs, a cinema festival showcasing short films, animations, and multimedia works by our youth, as well as music and dance performances throughout the afternoon. Taking place from 1:00-5:00pm, at Mercado La Paloma, 3655 S. Grand Avenue, this year’s Festival will be bigger and better than ever. I can’t wait to attend!

Are you into science? Do you have kids at home that watch Sid the Science Kid? If you answered yes to either question, then Sid the Science Kid Day at the California Science Center is perfect for your family.

On Sunday, from 11:00am to 3:00pm, at interactive stations, little scientists can will have access to hands-on activity stations to observe, predict and explore some of the Earth’s most fascinating ecosystems, watch special screenings of Sid the Science Kid filmed at the Science Center, and more. Kids and parents will also be able to catch sneak-peek screenings of “Sid’s Super Kick,” a new episode of Sid the Science Kid in both English and Spanish, featuring live-action segments.

One of Southern California’s most popular community events—the annual Abbot Kinney Festival now in its 26^th year—will be held in Venice on Sunday, September 26^th, from 10:00am to 6:00pm. The Festival, which spans the trendy shopping district of Abbot Kinney Boulevard from Venice Boulevard to Main Street in Venice, will feature local artisans, live music, and family entertainment. In addition to two new areas, KidsQuad and The Food Rendezvous, this year’s festival includes up to 400 arts and craft exhibitors, live music stages, a Whole Foods Market Green Scene, bike valet stations, gourmet food trucks, and beer gardens. All complement the eclectic mix of over 100 boutiques, coffee houses, restaurants, salons, art galleries, and nightclubs located along this one-mile stretch of Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Are you a bibliophile (meaning do you like books? Then, the 9th Annual West Hollywood Book Fair is the place to be. On Sunday, at the West Hollywood Park, on 647 N. San Vicente Boulevard,, you’ll get to enjoy 3 live theater, poetry, storytelling, and comedy stages, a kids’ stage, a ghost story telling tent, a teen stage, a writing room, and over 130 exhibitors. The West Hollywood book fair will have everything from soup to nuts about books.The Book Fair starts at 10:00am and ends at 6:00pm. Plus, if you’d like to take a bike tour, The Bicycle Kitchen brings you the celebrated Library Ride. Starting at the Bicycle Kitchen home, located at Heliotrope and Melrose, they’ll take you on an easy tour of some of Los Angeles’s well known and not so well-known libraries. There will be 3 to 4 stops on this relaxed ride, some poetry, trivia, prizes, and limited-edition spoke cards until they run out of their goodies. The ride will end back at the West Hollywood Book Fair, where you can visit the Bicycle Kitchen Booth to learn more about bicycle maintenance, bicycle zines and anything else bike related! There will be bike mini workshops throughout the day.

Although the maxim that nothing in life is free, here in Los Angeles, every weekend we prove that to be a bit staid and tired. To use the popular phrase–go for it!

Commemorating September 11th, 2001 in Santa Monica

Lisa Newton — Sat, 11 Sep 2010 15:29:23 +0000

Nine years ago today, I was at work in a small private school and happened to be standing in the office. Just outside the door was a TV waiting to be picked up by a classroom teacher.

It was turned on to the local news. As I stood there and watch the events that changed the world as we knew it, life would never be the same again.

Of course, I’m referring to the September 11^th, 2001.

A few days ago, as I was walking on Ocean Front Walk in Santa Monica, when I discovered a small restaurant called “Carousel Café” that has its own way of paying tribute to the 9/11 tragedy.

I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves:

Dedicated To the over 3,000 People who were murdered on American Soil Sept 11, 2001, the brave first responders who risked and lost their lives to save them, the New York Fire Department, and all the brave deeds that were done to protect our nation by our fellow Americans.

May they all rest in peace

Big Blue Bus Rates Dramatically Increase

Lisa Newton — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:10:49 +0000

Monday, the beginning of the work and school week grind and if you regularly ride the Big Blue Bus to get to your destination, you were greeted with a huge surprise.

That’s right; the price to ride just went up.

Everybody knows times are tough. However, with an across the board rate increase by Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus system, the increases for individuals are 25%–an increase from 75 cents to $1.00. I think this is a good thing. Big Blue was a great value at 75 cents, and even adding 25 cents to that is fine. Running and maintaining a bus system is a huge responsibility and undertaking.

Increasing the rates from 50 cents to $1.00 is a bit too much. To encourage public transportation for the younger generation, charging them the same amount that adults pay isn’t right; their fare of 50 cents is now a dollar. If a family with 4 children take public transit, that’s $8.00 per day. For many families, that’s simply too expensive.

In addition, senior rates have increased the first time in 25 years, going from 25 cents to 50 cents, another 100% increase. Many senior citizens live on a fixed income and they have to watch ever dime to survive.

If you’ve ridden the Big Blue, you know that for many seniors, it’s their only mode of transportation other than local jaunts.

To help make the rate hikes a little more digestible, Big Blue is offering a new monthly passes that offer unlimited rides for one low price. But even these aren’t much of a savings.

For example, the Student Pass can be purchased for $40.00; but if your child only rides the bus to school, 20 days per month, you don’t save a dime.

I’m a big believer in public transportation, but this price increase seems more than a little steep to be implemented in one fell swoop.

The stated reason for this increase is that the Big Blue Bus organization has a deficit of almost $6.5 million dollars. Therefore their management hopes that over the nest several years, the rate increases will compensate for the deficit at a rate of $2.5 million a year.

For now, just make sure you have more cash in your purse before you choose to ride the Big Blue next time, or better yet, maybe it’s time to get on your bike.

Three Hours in the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze

Lisa Newton — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 14:16:20 +0000

A funny thing happened on my way to the Music Box Steps. I arrived there in a brand new 2011 Chevrolet Cruze.

On Friday, a few Los Angeles bloggers were invited to meet with General Motors representatives at the Fairmont Hotel & Bungalows in Santa Monica, where we were given both a delicious breakfast and detailed information about Chevrolet’s new dedication to excellence, and the ways in which their new sedan, the Cruze, has been manufactured from top to bottom along with significant performance improvements, to meet the demands and luxury of affordable driving, and due to be released soon.

After listening to the speakers, it seemed hard pressed to not be impressed by how the new Chevrolet team has transformed its once stodgy image from not too long ago, into a top notch car manufacturer.

At the Fairmont, the bloggers were brought up to speed by a very informed group of people–including two Chevrolet engineers– who talked about the many safety enhancements the Cruze provides for its drivers and passengers, including:

Dual-stage frontal air bags

Roof rail-mounted head curtain side air bags that help protect the front and outboard rear seating positions

Seat-mounted side-impact air bags (front and rear)

Front knee air bags

Front passenger seat occupant sensing system

Rollover sensing and protection system

Collapsible pedal assembly

StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover sensing, traction control and anti-lock brakes

Three-point safety belts in all five seating positions

Safety belt retractor pretensioners and lap pretensioners in the driver and front-passenger positions

Safety belt load limiters (with pretensioners) in the front safety belt retractors

Child seat latching system in the rear seat.

That’s impressive. Even more impressive is the fact that all of car’s features listed above are standard for every Cruze model–from base to top of the line. During my test drive, I felt very safe and protected knowing that Chevrolet had my back–literally. I felt cocooned in a safety nest.

But that’s only part of the narrative, the safety features of the Cruze are but many of the enjoyable aspects when it comes to driving the car. My 5’10” frame fit very comfortably while driving and its interior is stylish, relaxing, and roomy. Compact this car isn’t.

After the initial morning introduction and information session, I was off to my place of choice. To give it the proper LA test, I thought the narrow roads in the Silver Lake hills would be perfect, and I wasn’t disappointed.

Going from the Westside to Silver Lake, I cruised the 10 Freeway where the driving is a breeze. One reason is because the Cruze is quite quiet on the inside. Once the windows are closed, your choice of music or quiet conversation is about all you hear.

And I can’t say enough about how this “little” car handles. From its various unique features, Chevrolet has managed to change its manufacturing in a short time into making cars that are perfect for the California lifestyle because of their design, improvements, attention to every aspect of the car’s engineering–inside and out–and the Cruze’s affordable price points.

After getting off the 10, I went straight to the Music Box Steps, my first stop on my quick tour of Silver Lake. If you’ve ever driven or biked to the Steps, you know that Descanso Drive is a narrow, bumpy ride. Old trees that line the street are starting to uproot the road. In addition, with the rows of cars parked on the right, the streets become even narrower.

The Cruze handled it all perfectly. The Chevrolet Cruze isn’t only taking on the likes of the Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, and Honda Civic, but they want to “surpass them,” and I’m positive that they will.

As to be expected, there’s a lot of technical and manufacturing standards that I’m not familiar with about the Cruze, but I’m not a car person. So I want to know the things I understand; safety, track record, driveability, comfort, and style. For the technical specs of the Cruze, you can check them out here.

As I parked in the Silverlake Hills, a local gentleman excitedly approached me and began to pepper me with questions about the car; how it handled, was it new, and if I drove it from Michigan. He was excited to hear about the new car and happy to hear Chevrolet was doing so well. From that exchange it’s apparent that many people will be receptive to Chevrolet’s new Cruze into the California market.

I could easily see myself cruising up PCH, driving the freeway down to San Diego, or heading out into the desert in the Cruze, and most importantly, being able to use the new Cruze to cover all of the places Travelin’ Local travels in Southern California.

The Dolphin Change Program in Santa Monica

Lisa Newton — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 20:27:54 +0000

If you spent any time walking around Santa Monica, especially on the Third Street Promenade and on Main Street, you can’t but notice the Dolphin Sculptures, which were designed by sculptor Peter Ehrlich, that are featured.

I’m not sure exactly how many there are, but I’ve seen two on the Promenade, and one on my recent visit to the Santa Monica Pier.

“Give Where it Really Counts”

Contributions to the Dolphin “Change” Program is used to support organizations that benefit the homeless and needy in Santa Monica. By giving to the Dolphin you are choosing a positive alternative to panhandling.

Started in 1993, the Dolphin Change Program, a project of the Bayside District Corporation, has been a way for the Santa Monica community and visitors to give responsibly to established social service organizations that help the homeless.

With the help of the Marion Dorn Estate, last year’s Dolphin grants totaled $50,000 dollars.

To qualify for a Dolphin grant, agencies must be located in Santa Monica and have programs that are attuned to the social issues and needs of the homeless in Santa Monica.

So, the next time you’re in Santa Monica and you have a little loose change in your pocket, consider putting it in a dolphin. Small things add up to larger things, thereby small change really does make a difference.

5 Minutes on the Santa Monica Pier

Lisa Newton — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 14:00:20 +0000

In our fast paced world and way of life here in Los Angeles, have you ever stood in one location and just looked around?

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.

The Best way to Get to Will Rogers State Beach

Lisa Newton — Sun, 18 Jul 2010 15:14:25 +0000

Will Rogers State Beach, extending 1¾miles along the Pacific Coast, is a popular swimming, sunning, and surfing location.

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!