As the publisher of Travelin’ Local, it’s no surprise that time is always in short supply. For instance, every day I read a lot of blogs, websites, industry publications, journals, and other online content.

In doing so, I read what others are writing about, to find hot new trends, follow those people whose writing I admire and enjoy, and to maintain Travelin’ Local’s edge through constant attention to those industry leaders involved in social media trends, digital marketing, and everything else I can find the time to peruse–which may not even be in the previous categories, but for interest and fulfillment.

It seemed natural then, for me to introduce the concept of sharing some of what I enjoyed and found to be of interest. I’ve selectively picked some of the best stories of the week, but by no means is the list all inclusive—for that I’d be writing a manifesto that nobody would want to read.

As everyone’s busy with their own work, family, and responsibilities what better way to spend a Saturday, then to sit back and let me share some of my favorite California reads from this past week.

So, to that end, sit back, grab your beverage of choice, and enjoy the following stories I picked for this week’s “Sit Back Saturday:”

• Cookies Without Borders: A Bake Sale for Haiti: It happens on Sunday, January 31, so mark your calendars and head for Scoops Ice Cream.
• Sharon McNary from KPCC has it all wrong!: This is a great read and the comments just enhance the experience.

• Exploring Napa’s Bottled Poetry: Can you guess what this is about?

• City and Parking Lot Views: I bet you didn’t know downtown LA could look so good.

• DineLA Returns: Get special deals on local restaurants.

• Los Angeles Philharmonic Association Announces Hollywood Bowl 2010 Summer Subscription Series: Get details and info about tickets.

• To Encourage Bicycle Commuting, Cyclists Get Lunch Deals in Long Beach: Let’s ride to Long Beach, or in case you’re already there, get up and ride for some good eats.
• Support California state parks — and save vacation money too!: Talk about a win/win scenario. It doesn’t get any better.

And there you have it. These links by no means reflect all of the great articles written this week, but for my short list, each one is a wonderful read.