Travelin' Local » Beverly Hills

What can $46,000 a month buy you to Live in Beverly Hills?

Lisa Newton — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 15:07:41 +0000

For the next couple of days, we’ll be taking a brief respite from our Alvarado Terrace Historic District tour, to focus a bit on the lighter side of our way of life here.

So let’s get going to–Beverly Hills!

Yes, that’s right. The place where the stars and the rich and famous live.

And for many others, it’s the place where the mega rich call home.

So, in response to the question posed in this story’s title, $46,000 per month may get you the following:

9 Bedrooms
11 Bathroom
Gated and private estate
10 Car motor court
6 Car private garage
Entertainer’s open floor plan
Floor-to-ceiling windows
Gourmet kitchen with pizza oven and center island
Media room
Luxurious, oversized master suite
Separate guest wing
Pool and spa overlooking the city below

As far as exact numbers concerning the amount of square footage of this mansion’s dimensions, I wasn’t able to obtain that information because I saw the ad on, of all places, Craigslist.com.

However, what I did find, will provide a perfect picture of what I’m talking about:

So there you go, instead of buying a major corporation you can live high in the Beverly Hills, knowing that you’re living like a king, or at least as long as your money holds out!

Tomorrow there’s a 100% forecast of snow on Rodeo Dr. in Beverly Hills

Lisa Newton — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 15:16:34 +0000

You don’t have to go all the way to the mountains to get your first look at snow. It’s going to be snowing in Beverly Hills.

The event is entitled “Snow 90210 Rodeo,” and it’s a celebration of the Holiday Season with the first-ever street-wide snowfall everywhere on Rodeo Drive for the evening.

Three shopping blocks of Rodeo Drive will be open to foot traffic only with more than 20 snow machines atop the stores, which will be in action from 6:00 – 9:00pm. There will be a total of 50 in-store events on Rodeo Drive and Brighton Way, seven gourmet food trucks and special Holiday beverages served by Beverly Hills newest award-winning bistro, Bouchon.

There will also be a special UNICEF Snowflake with 12,000 Baccarat crystals sparkle above the Beverly Wilshire at the base of Rodeo Drive.

Additionally, there will also be limited horse-drawn carriage rides with proof of purchase at participating stores during the event.

On the same day, the other famous street next on Canon Drive will be holding its annual open house. Lastly throughout the month of December all the fun will continue with a Beverly Hills Weekend Wonderland during the entire month. Oh, and don’t forget, Santa and Mrs. Clause will be at Two Rodeo Drive and the Pale Center accompanied by live holiday music courtesy of UNICEF.

Here’s the list of many of the participating stores for “Snow 90210 Rodeo:”

Participating Food Trucks

Whether you want to see the festivities, do some Holiday Shopping, spend some time seeing the snow, have a night out with your significant other, “Snow 9010 Rodeo,” has something for everyone.

Note: Rodeo Drive will close down at 5:30 p.m. and reopen after 10:30 p.m.because the three shopping blocks of Rodeo Drive will be open to foot traffic only with more than 20 snow machines atop the stores, which will be in action from 6 – 9 p.m.

Sing-a-long Saturday – Beverly Hills

Lisa Newton — Sat, 09 Oct 2010 14:57:04 +0000

Beverly Hills is a legendary city known the world over.

In 2005, Weezer put its own spin on the famous city with their hit song simply titled, Beverly Hills.

Filmed on location at the Playboy mansion, which is located in Beverly Hills in the Holmby Hills section, Beverly Hills went certified gold.

Rivers Cuomo, Weezer’s lead guitarist and principal songwriter talks about how the inspiration of this iconic city came to be:

I was at the opening of the new Hollywood Bowl and I flipped through the program and I saw a picture of Wilson Phillips. And for some reason I just thought how nice it would be to marry, like, an “established” celebrity and live in Beverly Hills and be part of that world. And it was a totally sincere desire. And then I wrote that song, Beverly Hills. For some reason, by the time it came out—and the video came out—it got twisted around into something that seemed sarcastic. But originally it wasn’t meant to be sarcastic at all. Source: Wikipedia

And now, without ado, here’s the song:

Good Food, Wine, Spirits, Cooking Displays and Contests at the Taste of Beverly Hills

Lisa Newton — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 14:19:35 +0000

In case you missed it, over the Labor Day weekend, Beverly Hills celebrated their very first Food & Wine’s Taste of Beverly Hills.

Hosted by the Beverly Hills Hilton, thousands of people came to eat, drink, watch celebrity cooking demonstrations, listen to some great music, and just have a good time.

Just as the sun was setting, the cooking fires within the tents were just getting started. The complete list of restaurants by day are listed here.

From the more than 40 local restaurants, the tasting was plentiful and varied–tuna “ice cones,” shrimp, Kobi Beef on skewers, sliders of all varieties, and that’s just a tiny fraction of what was served up during the 4 day Taste of Beverly Hills celebration. Served up to the elegant crowd were creative dishes including Rock Sugar’s Green Mango and Papaya Salad with liquored B.B.Q, ribs and Monterrey Red Abalone cucumber fennel by Melisse, just to name the sophistication and tastiness of the many food tastings provided.

I had my very first Sprinkles cupcake. Surprisingly, I liked the vanilla better than the Red Velvet, but both of them were delicious.

Sprinkles was just the start of the desserts. Chocolate mousse, pure heavenly chocolate, and even a Bit-O-Honey, was available to everyone.

Of course as a big fan of Top Chef, I had to watch the cooking demonstration by Michael Voltaggio, winner to Top Chef Season 6. With a wonderful sense of humor, Michael kept the audience both intrigued and entertained.

But, I also learned. In fact, the coolest part of his presentation was the idea of using a blender and a food dehydrator to make basil chips. In the photo above, Michael is using liquid nitrogen as part of his final product:

This is what happens when skill meets imagination. Thanks, Michael.

Oh, did I mention the wine and beer? The best wine from all over the world was brought together under two tents. Glass wine glasses were available for everyone, and tall bottles, short bottles, green bottles, and red bottles sat on the table like soldiers waiting to do battle.

There was a bountiful amount of other spirits–from Svedka, to Hula Girls colorful tropical Rum cocktails in a bottle!

Small sips were greatly enjoyed. With a Sprinkles cupcake in one hand, I walked up to Newton’s Winery table, and was promptly told that the wine I selected would pair better with a good steak instead of the cupcake I was holding.

Of course, I waited to eat the cupcake until I found a delicious prime rib slider from Lawry’s.

The Taste of Beverly Hills Starts Thursday Evening

Lisa Newton — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 20:13:11 +0000

Already having garnered world-wide attention, the Taste of Beverly Hills takes place from September 2^nd – 5^th.

It’s also a great opportunity to take your current or new flame out for a few special nights on the town–especially with the glitz, the glamor, and food and wine at the world famous City of Beverly Hills.

It’s the perfect Date Night.

Anyone who’s wanted to take their significant other out for a unique night on the town, The Taste of Beverly Hills is the right event at the right time for the right reasons–it’s got something for everyone’s taste buds.

What could be better than a enjoying each other’s company during a beautiful evening of food, wine and entertainment?

Throughout the festival, there will be live cooking demonstrations, regional chefs, wine tasting sessions with accomplished sommeliers, to more than 40 of the top restaurants from Beverly Hills.

Date Night is the one evening this to really show your partner a good time. There will also be plenty of regular and specialty beer, wine, and cocktail tastings, also.

And if that’s not enough, celebrity chefs will be all over the place. Just to name a few; Tim Allen, native Angeleno, Ray Garcia, Tim Love, Art Smith, and Michael Voltaggio. (Can you tell I’m a Top Chef fan?)

But, if you’re not into the Date Night, options abound at the Taste of Beverly Hills:

Day 1: Thursday, September 2^nd, 6:00 – 10:00pm

9.02.10 Beverly Hills Celebration Event: The City of Beverly Hills will be celebrating its famed zip code, 90210 on September 2, 2010, with an event headlined by international pop sensation and Grammy nominee Natasha Bedingfield, along with CNN Talk Show host Larry King as master of ceremonies. The Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce introduces Mayor Jimmy Delshad to kick off the evening’s festivities. Guests will be provided with unlimited food and drink from renowned Beverly Hills restaurants and chefs. Celebrated chef Wolfgang Puck of Spago Beverly Hills and Cut Beverly Hills will make a special appearance.

Day 2: Friday, September 3^rd, 7:00 – 11:00pm

The Art of Mixing: Where the best in culinary meets the best in cocktails! As guests sample cuisine from the city’s top restaurants, the evening will also showcase some of the city’s top mixologists and DJs, “mixing” talents. Live musical performance/DJ set by KCRW’s Jason Bentley.

Saturday and Sunday offer an afternoon and an evening event.

Day 3: Saturday, September 4^th, 11:00am – 3:00pm

Secrets from the Kitchen and Cellar: The day will be filled with session after session from chefs, master sommeliers, and other experts in their fields, showcasing their tricks of the trade of all things food and wine. Additionally, the day will feature LG’s Taste of Something Better cooking competition, hosted by Chef Tim Love.

Saturday, September 4^th, 7:00 – 11:00pm

Date Night: Enjoy a beautiful evening of food, wine and entertainment with a significant other or friends, while partaking in some of the city’s top restaurants and their signature entrees. Spend one-on-one time with industry experts and delve into a beautiful variety of wines, showcasing vintner’s top wines, but also pouring some everyday selections.

Day 4: Sunday, September 5^th, 10:00am – 3:00pm

The Art of Brunch: No one does brunch like LA. Avoid the hour-and-a-half waits and come partake in an unparalleled brunch experience. LA’s finest brunch hot spots will be serving up each of their signature dishes alongside free-flowing Bloody Marys, Bellinis and Mimosas.

Sunday, September 5^th, 7:00 – 11:00pm

“BBQ in the Hills”: The festival will culminate with a “BBQ in the Hills”. Expect the unexpected as local top chefs and restaurants express their interpretation of what BBQ is all about.

Ticket prices vary depending on which session and so do the restaurants, so be sure to click each of the links to find out more.

I’ll see you there………………………

Exquisite Taste and Hospitality: Touring Norbert Wabnig’s Cheese Store of Beverly Hills

Sarah Roullard — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 14:06:42 +0000

The Cheese Store of Beverly Hills is located in the heart of the legendary, fast-paced city of, you guessed it, Beverly Hills. The store itself is intimate and calm. The walls, shelves, and counter-tops are filled with a great assortment of gourmet items. Some are new, some are aged, and a few extraordinary rare treats can be found mixed therein, resembling the collection of a carefully stocked library.

The gourmet selection’s premier quality attracts passersby, food connoisseurs, and famous faces alike. The Cheese Store is admittedly a celebrity favorite, frequented by Hollywood’s most famed members. However, the store employees offer their hospitality without favoritism. Despite the Cheese Store’s superstar following, every customer is esteemed and warmly attended.

One Cheese Store employee explained: “Everyday something new and unexpected happens, yet there is still consistency. You still serve the best food products to some amazing and always intriguing clientele, while being surrounded by exceptional coworkers who treat you like family.”

-Elizabeth, Cheese Store employee

The Cheese Store stocks the finest food and drink selections from around the globe. The store’s cheese trays are visually seductive and deliciously divine. Each item is custom selected to complement one another yet also assert its own distinctive, delicious flavor.

Raffi, the store’s caviar expert, offered a caviar tasting session while I visited. Each tin contains roe from a different type of sturgeon. We sampled Sevruga, Ossetra, and Golden Imperial caviar. The sturgeon roe appears vaguely dissimilar in color but the distinction in taste is completely astounding. My favorite was the rare and pricey Golden Imperial caviar which is coveted for its buttery, smooth flavor.

Raffi explained that the fish that produced this delicacy have ancestors from the Caspian Sea, located at the juncture between Iran and Russia. The caviar tutorial was delightful and fascinating. Thank you, Raffi!

I was very fortunate to hold an in-store interview with Cheese Store of Beverly Hills owner, Norbert Wabnig, whose passion for fine foods and warm, welcoming nature have brought his store great success. We chatted in the gorgeous, rustic back room which clients often rent for parties catered by the Cheese Store.

It is an honor to have this opportunity to interview you! How long have you been in business?

Norbert Wabnig: I started working here in 1975 and bought the store in 1978 so I’ve been in business for about 32 years. I’ve worked here longer.

How did you first become interested in owning the Cheese Store?

NW: It came about sort of indirectly. I was born in Vienna, grew up in New Orleans, wanted to become a musician and if you’re a musician, you have to come to California to become a star… (My friend) and I planned on becoming the new Lennon and McCartney, which worked out real well. That’s why I have a cheese store instead.

What was the biggest obstacle to getting your store started and moving?

NW: When I bought it, the store was in debt. So I had to overcome that debt. It was much easier than I had thought it would be. It was a lot of fun and it’s been a lot of fun for all those years – a lot of laughs, a few giggles, a couple tears.

Why did you select Beverly Hills as the location for the Cheese Store?

NW: It was here before. A quick story: I was broke, I mean the musical career was not going well. They stole my car. I was living on a couch in Santa Monica… I needed to work, I needed money. So there was something called the Job Factory, which was this little pamphlet that would come out every week with jobs. I saw this ad for the Cheese Store of Beverly Hills and I thought, ‘wow, Beverly Hills! All over the country everybody talks about Beverly Hills. So here’s an opportunity.’ I got dressed, and I had real long hair at the time in a pony tail but I had a resume with college and my work experience as a social worker. I crossed the street to the Cheese Store and I was almost run-over by James Caan, the actor, in his Porsche and I thought, “I’ve got to be here, this is too great.” So I got a job for $1.80 an hour and worked here for 2 and a half years before I bought it.

I bet you get a lot of celebrity clients, being in Beverly Hills! Do you have any interesting run-ins?

NW: Yes we do. Joe Walsh, from the Eagles, and his wife came in today. I’ve met a lot of the people that were idols to me growing up – Sir Laurence Olivier and Richard Burton, real icons in American Cinematography. I met George Harrison, Ringo Starr, just a lot of incredible people. It’s always been interesting, that’s the one thing about the Cheese Store – there are never dull moments.

What have you most enjoyed about the experience of owning and operating your store?

NW: Well because I didn’t have any background in business at all, it’s always been an adventure, and I think that’s what I’ve enjoyed the most. You do get to meet interesting people, you’re put into incredible situations where most of the country would just dream about being – talking to Joe Walsh, George Harrison, Kelly Lebrock, James Spader, and Ozzy Osbourne… and being among some of the best food in the entire world. We drink great wines, we eat wonderful cheeses, we have caviar, we have the best meats, the charcuterie, the condiments. All the best from all over the world we try to keep here and at the same time be totally unpretentious about it. It’s in the context of a very casual atmosphere. We have two pianos here. We have a back room where we chit-chat.

What are your personal top 3 cheeses sold at the store?

NW: A very simple cheese, like Manchego, fresh goat cheeses, and a good piece of Roquefort… You know, a nice piece of Jarlsberg never hurts either.

What other accompaniment products would you recommend as your favorites?

NW: I like the jamón ibérico, which is the ham from Spain, the butter from Normandy, and fresh BreadBar baguettes… when they’re good, they’re the best.

What are your expansion plans for the store?

NW: Let’s just say I have expansion plans… might jinx it.

Is there anything else I didn’t cover that you would like to share?

NW: It’s hard to convey what the store is about; it’s not just about cheese. It’s about a lifestyle. It’s about enjoying good food. It’s not a science. I would never reduce good eating and fun to a science, and that’s what the store is. Don’t come in here if you want to bring a notebook and learn the molecular composition of cheese. That’s not what it’s about.

Thank you so much! It’s been a pleasure. I’ve learned a lot.

NW: Really?

Yeah! I need to love food a little bit more.

NW: That’s it.

Sarah is the author of brokeintheOC.

Roxbury Memorial Park in Beverly Hills

Lisa Newton — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 18:28:53 +0000

At the corner of Olympic Boulevard and South Roxbury Drive in Beverly Hills sits 11 acres of manicured green space–that’s right, it’s a park.

But not just any park, it’s the Roxbury Memorial Park.

Although I’ve passed by it innumerable times, it wasn’t until I actually took the time to stop and take a look that I actually saw it. I had absolutely no idea how many activities this wonderful oasis of open green park space actually has:

This large and gorgeous manicured grass space is used for lawn bowling. If you’re curious about lawn bowling, here’s a great introductory video:

Now it’s time to head back over to explore the rest of Roxbury Memorial Park:

What a wonderful children’s playground. I was here on a Saturday afternoon, and the kids were out in full force. What child doesn’t want to swing, dig, climb, and enjoy a day of just having fun?

Roses, beautiful yellow roses and the plaque accompanying them is even more beautiful:

This rose garden is dedicated to Laura Tallen Kane by her husband David Paul Kane as a tribute to Mrs. Tallen Kane who loved yellow roses and enjoyed visiting Roxbury Park. Mr. Kane dedicated the funds to create this garden. 1999

Before I even started walking, I could hear this game. It’s amazing always fun watching our youth playing some pick up Basketball, while getting a lot of exercise while having fun at the same time.

Nothing matches the smell of an outside grill–there’s nothing like it.

Here’s a wonderful public art sculpture located at the far corner of the park.

It’s entitled, The Conversation by the artist and sculptor, Alec McCrae. /p>

After walking around and seeing the lawn bowling green lawns, the lively basketball game, the picnic tables the grills being used in full force, the children having fun at the playground, and some wonderful Public Art–it’s time for some quiet seclusion:

For me, Roxbury Memorial Park is now permanently on my radar as a to-go place. So, if on some weekend–or weekday–occasion, you find yourself with nothing to do, but want a little fresh air, pencil in Roxbury Memorial Park.

You’ll be happy you did.

A History of Beauty, Intrigue, and Murder at the Greystone Mansion

Lisa Newton — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 06:08:00 +0000

People who visit LA often want to know where the best places of city are. For some, they wish to find a place to mellow out and relax. For others, they actively want to know all of our town’s dirty little secrets–and seek to discover our city’s macabre history of mystery, crime, and deadly moments of violence.

Greystone Mansion has it all in one place:

Located off Santa Monica Boulevard in Beverly Hills, there sits a tiny 46,000 square foot mansion perched on 16 acres of land, with only 55 rooms. The land was first owned by the oil magnet Edward L. Doheny, who then gave it to his son, Edward "Ned" Doheny, Jr. as a wedding gift.

It was the most expensive house in Beverly Hills in its day, costing over $3,000,000 to build. The day I was there, I was unable to tour the inside because of a previously booked event– but if you want to see a few pictures of the Greystone Mansion’s interior, Curbed LA has some pictures they took awhile back: On a Grisly Day, Inside Beverly Hills’ Greystone Mansion.

As you walk around the grounds of the Mansion, it’s easy to become encapsulated into part of its grandeur.

But if these walls could talk, they would also tell you the facts and truth about the murder-suicide that took place there:

Four months after Ned Doheny and his family moved in, on February 16, 1929–two men, Ned and Hugh Plunket, and Ned’s secretary, were found shot dead inside the Mansion. The “official” story is that Hugh, distraught by a mental breakdown, murdered Ned and then turned the gun on himself. However, several stories, each with a new set of questions, have emerged over the years.

What is the truth to these unanswered questions:

Why was Ned Doheny not buried in the family’s Catholic plot (which may indicate that he was the one who committed suicide)?
Or is it possible that Ned and Hugh were more than good friends? Maybe Lucy, Ned’s wife, committed the crime in a fit of jealousy?
Was there a delay in calling the police, so the bodies could fit the story?
Was there an effort made to make Plunkett look crazy, to make the murder-suicide story more believable?
Why was the case closed in less than 36 hours?

If you’d like to do a little bit of reading, the detective in charge of the case, Leslie T. White, wrote a 1936 book entitled, Me, Detective, which talks about his experiences with the Doheny murders. A small excerpt can be found on criticism & scholarship.

Travelin’ Local is not the first to report that LA is full of murder, dreadfulness, revenge, in addition to its multitude of beauty and spender. So for us, we’re committed to writing about, and covering all of the positive aspects and sides of our great and diverse city. After all, isn’t there enough bad news published in one day to last a lifetime?

For more Travelin’ Local’s pictures of Greystone Mansion, the gardens, and surrounding grounds, I’ve included the following slideshow:

Anatomy of the Electric Fountain in Beverly Hills

Lisa Newton — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 00:52:37 +0000

Located at the corner of Wilshire Boulevard and Santa Monica Boulevard in Beverly Hills, is the “Electric Fountain.”

Originally unveiled in 1931–at a then cost of $22,000–Electric Fountain was, at the time, a state-of-the-art timed fountain. Its water jets and color effects are timed for 60 different combination’s every 8 minutes. At its unveiling, the Fountain stopped traffic for hours, so people could watch; indeed its magnificence remains to the present.

The different water patterns are wonderful to watch; but upon further examination, the Electric Fountain is a lot more than just its water jets and color effects.

Why the Electric Fountain is a great Fountain and Sculpture

1. Read More…mlapa.org

Happy Holidays from Travelin’ Local

Lisa Newton — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 04:14:45 +0000

What a cliche–palm trees and a gift wrapped building is quintessential Los Angeles. But that’s indeed, Christmas Day here in the City of Angels.

Anyway, we have a lot to be thankful for:

First, this is the conclusion of our first year of publishing Travelin’ Local, and from the bottom of my heart, I want to take this time to tell every single one of our readers the following:

Without you, Travelin’ Local would be just another website–instead of a special and unique place where you’re welcome to come to see and read stories about Los Angeles, Southern California, all from a native’s perspective. We’re highly confident our articles contain both interesting information and news that often enough, the locals here may not even be aware of. So with that in mind, you, our dedicated readers are what make us who we are, as we continue to bring you the best of the best, of our hometown, a place that we like to call “a small piece of paradise.”

Growing up, my family had a very traditional Christmas. As a matter of fact, I remember initiating an extra effort to look under my bedroom door, to be able “to see” what and which presents were being put for whom–underneath the Christmas tree.

As hope springs eternal, and as a young girl, I never could discern much; but the memories of trying to figure out what my parents were doing remain to this day. After my late night escapades and upon arising on Christmas morning, my brother, two sisters and I each had our “own” special seats in the living room

My father played Santa Claus, minus the beard and costume, and we all took turns opening our gifts. Back in the day of the L.P., there wasn’t much happenstance to guess what that particular present was—as a record album was a dead giveaway; even after wrapping a record, everybody knew it was a record!

One year, I requested an album featuring the Boston Pops. After all these years, I still enjoy their music. So as my Christmas gift for you, I have a chance to share the same:

On that note, (No pun intended) –Travelin’ Local extends and wishes for everyone both a safe and happy holiday season. Since most stores are closed on Christmas, public art never shuts down; therefore so please be our honored guests and take a stroll to view some of our beautiful maps over at “Walk my World.”

We’re positive that you’ll find something fun and interesting to do based on our mapping initiatives–so don’t wait, Just Do It!

A Street Corner in Beverly Hills

Lisa Newton — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 04:31:18 +0000

On one street corner in Beverly Hills, are three unique public works of art–all very different, put together by its artists and sculptors with diverse mediums–with totally different perspectives and points of view .

For the rest, hop over to Flickr group celebrating the first day of Spring with the same name—Spring into 2009.

Wildflowers are in bloom everywhere in California right now.

I’m not a horticulturist, but that’s not a requirement to know what I like, admire, and appreciate, therefore I wanted to share my recent flower photographs, some of which are blooms, while I’ve been Travelin’ Local:

In the northern hemisphere, we’re celebrating spring, the southern hemisphere is embracing autumn– which I was educated about–but worldwide the frame of reference is technically the Equinox.

So far, 39 photographers have joined the Spring into 2009 Flickr group. Because most of their pictures are designated “All rights reserved,” I can’t reproduce them here—so to appreciate and see their great photos, please click the Spring into 2009 group.

I highly recommend viewing every group member’s gallery because it’s definitely Travelin’ Local round’ the world web friendly.

Education, Conservation, and the TreePeople

Lisa Newton — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 10:50:12 +0000

The caretakers and managers of Coldwater Canyon Park are the TreePeople, a non-profit organization whose mission is “To inspire the people of Los Angeles to take personal responsibility for the urban forest—educating, training, and supporting them as they plant and care for trees, and improve the neighborhoods in which they live, learn, work and play.”

Located at the top of Mulholland Drive, their eco message starts as soon as you enter the Parking Grove aka parking lot, where the following sign is posted:

I could feel the variation in heat of the different asphalts, by touching the surfaces in the sign above. The TreePeople practice what they preach as their Parking Grove was paved with this light asphalt, and they incorporated recycled material in their curb bumpers, which were more like a hard plastic than cement.

As you walk into the hilltop their educational program literally unfolds before you:

All “about helping nature heal our cities,” the TreePeople offer sustainable solutions to urban ecosystem problems.

Through the La Krutz Urban Watershed Garden, children and adults can learn how to put water conservation to work in their own homes and neighborhoods:

You’ll notice that throughout this post, I’m using informational signs, which were all found at the TreePeople Center. They put their message into the best words possible.

The TreePeople Conference Center is one of the best examples I’ve seen for sustainability and eco-friendliness. By using such materials and procedures as:

Non toxic cotton insulation: Created from scraps of denim left over from the manufacture of blue jeans

Energy efficient window glazing: Keeps out solar heat while letting in visible light

Reclaimed lumber for solar shades: Made from planks of Douglas fir salvaged from the historic fire station once located in the park

Recycled Structural Steel: Contains both pre- and post-consumer consumer recycled waste

Concrete in both roof and floor: Absorbs heat during the day and releases heat in the evening. The concrete contains 50% fly ash, a by-product of coal burning power plants that is usually dumped in landfills.

In the business of planting and growing trees, the TreePeople maintain the W.M. Keck Foundation Nursery. Even before Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa launched his MillionTreeLA program, which the TreePeople are involved in, their nursery was growing seeds into seedling:

Another current project the TreePeople is working on is building cisterns to catch rainwater, filter it, and then reuse it at a local elementary school:

If you’d like more information on the TreePeople, you can become a member here or check out their calendar for upcoming events.

If you don’t live in LA, but would like to spread the eco-message of planting trees in your neighborhood, TreeLink will give you a heads-up on other US tree organizations.

What could be more natural than planting a tree while Travelin’ Local?

A Vacation Day at Coldwater Canyon Park

Lisa Newton — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 11:23:10 +0000

Nestled tightly toward the top of Mulholland Dr, in the hills of Beverly Hills, is Coldwater Canyon Park.

“Set atop chaparral-covered canyons, it provides a haven of natural beauty in the midst of Los Angeles’ sprawling urban landscape. From this shady, quiet retreat you can enjoy panoramic views of the San Fernando Valley. Over 70,000 people a year visit Coldwater Canyon Park, confirming Los Angeles Magazine’s declaration that it is “one of the 300 best reasons to stay in Los Angeles.” Those who visit marvel at what they experience: a sanctuary for nature, for all who love nature, and in particular, for children, who come to love and learn how to nurture the natural world around them.”

Source: TreePeople. (More on TreePeople in another story).

It’s a stone’s throw from home, a place to get away during the day, and a treasure within the city.

Climbing to new heights to touch the sky

It’s a dog friendly park

where the dogs even have their own drinking fountain.

There are several trails in Coldwater Canyon Park. Some short and a few longer ones that all connect to Wilacre State Park, Fryman Canyon State Park and Franklin Canyon Park. They all have great views of the city:

After a great day of vacation in the middle of the big city, now it’s time to head home.

Coldwater Canyon Park is without a doubt unique and special, and at the end of today, I’m satisfied that I got to go Travelin’’ Local, and feel like I was on vacation at the same time. What about you? Did you take a vacation while Travelin’ Local this weekend?

An Afternoon with the Media at the Paley Center

D. J. Schwartz — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 09:50:40 +0000

As I’ve mentioned several times, I’m not a “greenhorn” to Southern California nor am I a native, so I was very excited when a friend of mine suggested that we visit The Museum of Television & Radio (MTR) in Beverly Hills. Its architect, Richard Meir, created a building that lives and breathes on one of the busiest streets in Beverly Hills, yet its beauty, and elegance is inherently mesmerizing, in more ways than one. Richard Meier, just happens to be the architect for the world renowned Getty Museum, also located here in Los Angeles.

Before I proceed any further into my photographic and written foray of this magnificent place, the first matter at hand is to give notice to everybody that the name of The Museum of Television & Radio was changed to The Paley Center for Media in 2007.

Simply put— The Paley Center for Media is probably one of the most advanced media centers, educational resources, current events, associated galleries, topical films, archives of television and radio programs, and cataloguer of over 100 years of media and society.

William Paley, was the founder of what became CBS and by the time he died in 1990 at the age of 89, he had remained at or near its helm for more than 60 years. He pioneered many of the practices that gave first radio and then television network broadcasting their distinctive shape and extraordinary reach.

CBS’s success was due to the quality of its programming which Paley was the innovator and advocate and his great passion was for what went over the air, which is at the heart of what the Paley Center is all about. By the way, they have 2 locations—one in Beverly Hills and the other in New York City.

At the heart of the Paley Center is an international collection of more than 140,000 programs covering almost 100 years of television and radio history, including news, public affairs programs and documentaries, performing arts programs, children’s programming, sports, comedy and variety shows, and commercial advertising. Programming from over seventy countries is represented in the collection. "Lost" radio and television programs recovered by The Paley Center for Media that are preserved in the collection include Super Bowl III, a Rat Pack benefit variety show, and James Dean performances.

All you have to do is:

1. Go to the Museum

2. Climb the stairs to their computer room where dozens of computers are loaded with their extensive database.

3. Put in your search words.

4. Choose 2 titles. (Yes, each time you choose, you’re limited to only two titles. Go figure!)

5. Take your choices to the librarian.

6. Wait a few minutes, get your data disc, and watch your choices. Each component of the search is also indexed for further exploration, and research. For example if during a search the producer or actor of a particular show was listed, you are able to find all relevant archived information that the Paley Center has for that as well.

It’s that simple. I researched their database for old shows and discovered that they had archived past television shows like Laugh-in, Get Smart, and Grammar Rock were all included. On a more serious side, I typed in JFK, and a broadcast originally shown on November 23rd, 1961, featured many top political and social icons of that time, whom were interviewed right before Kennedy’s funeral.

An important aspect of the Paley Center is that it offers both a specific area of its vast catalogued archives for academics and for educational purposes. They have separate wired rooms especially dedicated for those interested in writing, teaching, and exploring past historical events that were recorded on television, cinema, and radio. You can view some of their perspectives on Media and videos from their Screening Room on the Internet.

In its John H. Mitchell Theatre, they have an ever changing line-up of old and rare features, which their curators have assembled. The day I was there they were featuring old clips of the controversial comedian in the show entitled Two Five-Letter Words: Lenny Bruce; The entire premier of the original 1955 Lawrence Welk Show—including highlights of the musical/variety programs of the bandleader and his “Champagne Orchestra” in honor of Lawrence Welk’s 106^th Birthday; and a compilation of Superheroes on TV featuring Batman: ‘The Greatest Mother of them All’ starring Shelley Winters, from the 1966 show; and Danny Phantom: “Fanning the Flames” “Teacher of the Year” which features two 2004 episodes where the protagonist is a mild mannered Freshman at Casper High by day, superpower ghost vigilante by night, who confronts a power-mad girl rocker and a Tech-Ghost bent on taking over the Internet.

If all of that wasn’t interesting enough, in the Paley Center’s Ahmanson Radio Listening Room, they featured these programs all day:

- A Toast to Dean Martin

- Black Radio: Telling Like It Was

- Lucille Ball: The Redhead on Radio

- The Radio Interview: The Beatles

- A Salute to Sondheim

If you plan on visiting LA or better yet, if you live here, the The Paley Center for Media is a great way to spend an afternoon, or a series of afternoons.

Do you have a favorite TV program that you’d like to see again? Or historic events that were captured and recorded on the media?

By visiting Travelin’ Local, you can make rediscover history, live it, or view it.

Dream as if you’ll live forever. Live as if you’ll die today. ~ James Dean

Carpe Diem! It’s up to you to seize the day………………….:)

Walkin’ Santa Monica Boulevard in Beverly Hills

Lisa Newton — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 11:19:57 +0000

Located in the heart of Beverly Hills is a park many people tend to take for granted. Bordering the ever traffic laden Santa Monica Boulevard sits the Beverly Garden Park.

Interspersed and conjunctive, for almost two miles, are celebrities, residents, joggers, bikers, drivers of trucks, Rolls Royce’s, 1997 Toyotas, and every other type of transportation is conjoined with the sites, open spaces, and beauty of a cactus garden, walking trail, statues, and flowers. Typically going unnoticed by most, especially by Los Angelino drivers, the beautiful and inviting Beverly Garden Park is best enjoyed on foot or bike.

However, even driving past in a car, these flowers can catch your eye. Taller than my 5’10’ frame and with bold colors, these tulips are unique.

Guarding the flowers is statue of a dancing four-legged animal, ready to strike at a moment’s notice. He, like the other statues in the park, adds flair and spark to an otherwise dull day.

On the left, this statue is titled Hunter and Hounds, and it has an interesting history. A banker (W.D. Longyear) went to France to visit the spot where his son was killed in World War 1. At the site, near the Chateau Thierry, he saw this statue, riddled with bullet holes from the battle. In 1925, he bought the statue and had it shipped back to Beverly Hills, where it stood on his front lawn for many years. Memorial ceremonies were held at the statue each Armistace Day. When the Longyears moved from Beverly Hills, they donated the statue to the city. It was placed here in Beverly Gardens Park. Source: Seeing Stars

I spent a total of 40 minutes in only a ½ mile stretch of this park, and was amazed at each step–something new was just done the straightaway.

Beverly Hills may be known for many things, but I don’t think parks is at the top of the list, however, I hope after this post, you see Beverly Hills not only as a Mecca for the rich and famous, but also for its possibilities as a place of relaxation, walking, and sightseeing other than a Map of the Stars.

Having only touched on 25% of Beverly Garden Park, I’ll be making another visit. Next time, I think I’ll ride my bike, taking full advantage of the trail.

Until then, where are you Travelin’ Local?