by Dennis Richardson | Oct 10, 2024
This month brings a rare and exquisite offering from Leading Hotels of the World’s Malibu Beach Inn and Cucina Cipoletti! The two have teamed up to offer an extremely limited time four-course menu featuring wines from Demeine Estates and Lawrence Family Wine Estate.
Courtesy of Malibu Beach Inn
Freddie Cipoletti, the Founder of Cucina Cipoletti, and Josh Balague, Head Chef of Malibu Beach Inn’s Carbon Beach Club (CBC), have created a one-of-a-kind dining experience that combines Mediterranean flavors with a Malibu twist, showcasing Cucina Cipoletti products and ingredients. This gourmet pairing highlights Freddie’s dedication to Italian tradition alongside Chef Balague’s mastery of locally sourced ingredients, creating a dining experience that celebrates both the rustic charm of Italy and the breezy elegance of Malibu. The menu will include Scallop Crudo, Cucina Cipoletti Paccheri and Spaghettoni, Grilled Octopus, and more.
Courtesy of Cucina Cipoletti
In addition to the exclusive menu, guests can indulge in an elevated stay with a special room package available from October 1st to 31st. Those who book the King Premier Ocean Front Room will be treated to the Cucina Cipoletti Package, which includes a carefully curated Cucina Cipoletti Wine Tote, filled with artisanal goods, recipes, and premium products like Cucina Cipoletti pasta. To top it off, a complimentary dinner for two from the Cucina Cipoletti menu at CBC is included, allowing guests to fully embrace the spirit of la dolce vita, or “the good life.”
About Malibu Beach Inn
Nestled along Malibu’s iconic Carbon Beach, often referred to as “Billionaire’s Beach,” Malibu Beach Inn offers a luxurious, intimate escape with unmatched access to the Pacific. This boutique hotel boasts 47 elegantly appointed rooms, each featuring full glass doors that open onto private balconies, granting sweeping ocean views from nearly every corner. With only 34 steps separating the hotel from the sandy shores, guests can easily stroll down the exclusive private stairway to enjoy the surf and sand.
Courtesy of Malibu Beach Inn
Whether indulging in a gourmet meal at CBC, unwinding at the oceanfront spa suite, or lounging on the hotel’s private beach chairs, Malibu Beach Inn provides a haven of opulence and serenity. With impeccable service and an unbeatable location, this is the ultimate setting for a truly unforgettable seaside getaway.
The hotel’s private beach access—one of the few along the California coast—allows guests to enjoy the ocean at their leisure, guided by a daily tide chart. For those seeking a blend of elegance, exclusivity, and natural beauty, Malibu Beach Inn offers an unparalleled coastal retreat. Make your reservation to take advantage of the limited-time special offer, here.
About Cucina Cipoletti
Cucina Cipoletti is a family-owned brand dedicated to delivering premium Italian pantry essentials, sourced straight from Italy’s most celebrated regions. Founded by the Cipoletti family, the company is driven by a passion for sharing the joy of authentic Italian cuisine with American households, while promoting the idea that quality ingredients can lead to a more enriching, flavorful life.
The journey of founders Jenny and Freddie Cipoletti began over a shared love for Italian culture, discovered during a memorable Sunday Supper. Surrounded by the warmth of family, the aroma of home-cooked food, and the sound of laughter, the couple realized their deep connection to Italy’s culinary heritage. Freddie, a third-generation Neapolitan from New York, and Jenny, who spent her childhood summers on her family’s olive grove in Tuscany, both felt a calling to preserve and share the rich, authentic flavors of Italy. Their shared vision became the foundation for Cucina Cipoletti, bringing a taste of Italy to kitchens across the U.S.
With an unwavering focus on tradition and excellence, Cucina Cipoletti offers a carefully curated selection of products that bring the essence of Italy to every meal, elevating everyday dining into something special. Discover more about Cucina Cipotelli and the Cipotelli family and story, or shop the brand here.
by Randy Dunbar | Oct 8, 2024
How often do you say: “what a fun store?” But, that is what will happen when you visit the brand new Halloween shop called Spirit Halloween at 1601 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027. With Halloween being a mere four weeks away, it is time to get into the spirit, and into the costume. A large space with some very large and scary tableaus, it is a store full of surprises—and reasonable prices (that’s rare these days!)
It’s also time to plan your Halloween outing this year. Here is a list of the usual suspects, but guaranteed to thrill nonetheless:
Here are some top Halloween events happening in and around Hollywood this year, along with links to their official websites:
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Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood
- Experience immersive haunted mazes, scare zones, and attractions based on popular horror franchises like The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Insidious. Runs through select nights in October.
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West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval
- One of the largest outdoor Halloween street festivals, with thousands of attendees showcasing extravagant costumes, live entertainment, and street performers. Takes place on Halloween night.
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Los Angeles Haunted Hayride
- A spooky hayride through Griffith Park’s Old Zoo, featuring haunted mazes, scare zones, and eerie surprises. Open on select nights in October.
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Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor
- This haunted attraction takes place aboard the historic Queen Mary ship in Long Beach, known for its paranormal activity. It features haunted mazes and ghostly encounters. Dates run from late September through Halloween.
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Hollywood Forever Cemetery Dia de los Muertos
- Celebrating the Day of the Dead, this event features altars, traditional Mexican food, live performances, and art displays. Held in late October.
These events vary from full-on scares to cultural celebrations, offering something for everyone! Make sure to visit their websites for ticket information and schedules.
by Contributor | Oct 1, 2024
First, the weather: An Indian Summer refers to a period of unusually warm and dry weather occurring in autumn, typically after the first frost. It often happens between late September and mid-November in the Northern Hemisphere. The name originated in the U.S. during the 18th century, possibly because the warm spell allowed Native Americans (referred to as “Indians” then) to continue hunting and harvesting. And that is what we have as October starts out with three-digit days. But, it is also a time of festivals, events and experiences. Here are just a few
October in Los Angeles offers a variety of exciting events, perfect for every interest:
- Hans Zimmer Live (Oct 1 & 11): Experience the legendary film composer at the Crypto.com Arena with a live band and orchestra, performing iconic movie scores in a stunning audiovisual show
- (Secret Los Angeles) (Experism).
- American Idiot (Oct 2 – Nov 10): Green Day’s rock opera returns to the Mark Taper Forum, blending music with ASL performances by both Deaf and hearing actors
- (Experism).
- Punk in Drublic Festival (Oct 5-6): Celebrate the final stop of NOFX’s tour with live punk rock music, craft beer tastings, and food trucks in San Pedro
- (Experism).
- House of Spirits: Casa Vega: For a haunted twist, explore themed cocktails and eerie interactive experiences inspired by Francisco Goya at this immersive event
- (Secret Los Angeles).
- Beetlejuice: The Afterlife Experience: Dive into the world of Beetlejuice with live entertainment and photo ops at Ovation Hollywood (
Secret Los Angeles).
by Dennis Richardson | Sep 25, 2024
The latest launch from BRĒZ, the premier functional beverage brand known for crafting experiences that elevate everyday life, is here—and it’s better than ever!
Introducing BRĒZ FLOW, a reformulated beverage designed to support both mind and body with a powerful blend of natural ingredients. Featuring Lion’s Mane, a renowned mushroom for cognitive support, FLOW is crafted to help you achieve a motivated, clear, and uplifted “flow state.”
Credit: BRĒZ
After listening closely to customer feedback, the BRĒZ team uncovered a key insight: while the original Lion’s Mane-infused blend was effective for many, about 60-70% of users didn’t feel its full potential. Never settling for less than perfection, the team went back to the drawing board, and the result is FLOW—a new and improved version of their best-selling beverage. Now featuring an elevated dose of Lion’s Mane, paired with black seed oil, cacao, and L-Theanine, this blend is designed to supercharge your mood, motivation, and cognitive performance.
“Find Your Flow”
FLOW is lightly sparkling with refreshing notes of Italian lemon and elderflower, and packs a powerful punch with 2200mg of Lion’s Mane fruiting bodies, carefully balanced with black seed oil, cacao, and L-Theanine for a truly uplifting experience. With just 35 calories and 8g of natural sugar, it’s perfect for a mindful boost at any time of day—no special occasion required!
You can enjoy BRĒZ FLOW starting at $24.50 per 6-pack with a subscription, or $35 per 6-pack à la carte. It’s available for direct-to-consumer delivery through DrinkBREZ.com across most U.S. states. Every BRĒZ product is made with natural ingredients and innovative adaptogens to enhance your day with purpose and efficiency.
Whether you’re looking for clarity, motivation, or just a refreshing pick-me-up, BRĒZ FLOW is here to help you find your flow!
by June Miller Richards | Sep 21, 2024
Programming will Recognize, Celebrate, and Uplift Indigeneity in the Arts
On Monday, October 14, Idyllwild Arts will celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day with a daylong special public program designed to educate and uplift the Native American community. Guest artists, scholars and performers will share a vast array of knowledge based on traditional philosophies. The overall goal is to reconcile Native American history with United States history through programming that supports calls to action for recognition and reconciliation.
The day will be headlined by the Delbert Anderson Quartet (DAQ), led by Diné jazz trumpet artist, composer, and educator Delbert Anderson. The DAQ revives the improvised sounds of Diné songs, blending them with jazz, funk and hip-hop. Anderson’s compositions are inspired by Diné Bikéyah, Navajo Nation landscapes, historical events, and the desire to preserve and educate about Diné history. His achievements have garnered recognition including multiple awards from Chamber Music America, the Cultural Capital Fellowship from the First Peoples Fund, and the Jazz Road Program at South Arts. Delbert Anderson recently performed at the Kennedy Center and has gained national recognition with recent feature coverage in The New York Times, SF Gate, and NPR, to name a few.
One of the highlights of the Indigenous Peoples Day event is the emphasis on the Idyllwild Arts community being good neighbors. Each year, Idyllwild Arts welcomes students from Sherman Indian School in Riverside, California to join the IA student body for a fun day of learning.
This phenomenal day of education and fun is made possible by generous learning partners such as the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the Augustine Band of Cahuilla Indians, the Cahuilla Band of Indians and an anonymous foundation.
WHAT:
Daylong Programming
IDYLLWILD ARTS CAMPUS – 52500 Temecula Road, Idyllwild, CA 92549
9:00 am: Welcoming
The day of celebration will commence with a welcome by:
- Pamela Jordan, President, Idyllwild Arts Foundation
- Shaliyah Ben, Executive Director, Native American Arts Center
- Michael Madrigal (Mountain Cahuilla), President, Native American Land Conservancy
9:30 am – 12:00 pm: Morning Presentations
- Students, staff, faculty and the public are welcome to join two public presentations, including the Delbert Anderson Jazz Quartet.
12:00 pm: Complimentary Indigenous Foods Luncheon with Music Performance
- Outdoor luncheon will feature Indigenous foods, including crowd-favorite frybread and a high-energy DJ set by Idyllwild Arts Academy alum Kino Benally (Diné), also known as DJ Béeso.
1:30 – 4:00 pm: Glassblowing Demonstration
- Public open-studio visit with Hopi glass artists Ramson Lomatewama and Ayen Talashoma. Guests are encouraged to make their own glass flower!
- IA Indigenous Peoples Club will be selling artwork to support this year’s club activities!
HARVEY HOUSE – 54420 S. Circle Drive, Idyllwild, CA 92549
6:00 – 6:45 pm:
- Delbert Anderson Quartet “11th Note” live recording, “The Long Walk: 1674 Days.” A commemorative composition for instruments in any key to acknowledge the forced relocation of Diné people in 1864.
6:45 – 7:15 pm
- Flute Music by Randy Kemp (Choctaw, Muscogee Creek, and Euchee) of Artificial Red.
7:30 – 8:30 pm
- The Delbert Anderson Quartet.
For the full event schedule, please visit https://idyllwildarts.org/indigenous-peoples-day/
WHEN: Monday, October 14, 2024
WHERE: Idyllwild Arts Academy (52500 Temecula Road, Idyllwild CA 92549) and Harvey House in Idyllwild (54420 S. Circle Drive, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA 92549)
by Dennis Richardson | Sep 12, 2024
After a sizzling summer, Fogo De Chão isn’t turning down the heat, but rather turning it up! Just in time for fall, the famed and beloved steakhouse brand is introducing an assortment of new Fall Menu items that take advantage of the season’s bounty.
Credit: Fogo de Chão
Fogo de Chão, internationally renowned restaurant from Brazil known for its elevated churrasco dining experience, is inviting guests to experience new and seasonal menu innovations, available starting today at all U.S. locations. The new menu features the introduction of Fresh Whole Branzino, a first-ever for the brand. The Whole Branzino will be delivered fresh to all U.S. locations coast to coast and will be available Wednesday-Sunday for lunch, brunch and dinner.
The Whole Branzino can be added to any experience and is deboned then grilled on the churrasco grill over an open flame which blisters the skin, giving the fish a crisp and decadent flavor. The Branzino is then carved tableside and finished with extra virgin olive oil and sea salt. Other new menu additions include Bar Fogo small plates and fresh, seasonal soup and salads to the Market Table suited for all dietary lifestyles including pescatarian, keto, paleo, gluten-free and more.
The Season, Captured
A snapshot of the New Menu Innovations includes:
- Whole Branzino – Approximately 2lbs. fresh, mild white fish, blistered churrasco-style and served tableside with extra virgin olive oil, lemon and parsley. Serves 4 or more. Available Wednesday – Sunday.
- Roasted Bone Marrow – Center cut marrow served with crispy toasts and chimichurri.
- Caviar Brioche – Brioche toast topped with egg salad, Tobiko black roe and parsley.
- Roasted Apple & Butternut Squash Salad – Roasted butternut squash and Fuji apples drizzled with honey and topped with lime zest.
- Seasonal Fall Hummus – Fresh hummus blended with beets and tahini and topped with orange zest, pumpkin and sesame seeds and fresh herbs.
- Carrot Ginger Soup – Fresh carrots and ginger blended with coconut milk and fresh herbs. Vegan.
Fogo remains dedicated to giving back to its communities and helping to eliminate childhood hunger in America through its 10-year relationship with No Kid Hungry. Guests dining in-restaurant or those placing online to-go orders will have the opportunity to donate to No Kid Hungry. As a gesture of appreciation, for every $5 donation Fogo will offer guests a Dining Card valid for $25 off two Full Churrasco Dinners on their next visit.* (*Dining Cards valid Tuesday, September 24, 2024 through Saturday, November 16, 2024. $1 can help provide up to 10 meals for kids in need. Learn more athttp://www.nokidhungry.org/onedollar.)
With every $5 donated through this promotion, No Kid Hungry is able to provide 50 meals to children in need of nutritious meals. Additionally, Barry McGowan, Chief Executive Officer of Fogo de Chão, has joined No Kid Hungry’s CEO pledge to end summer hunger and increase the number of children receiving summer meals from 2.8 million to 30 million nationwide.
About Fogo de Chão
Fogo de Chão (fogo-dee-shown) is an internationally renowned restaurant from Brazil that elevates the culinary art of churrasco – the art of roasting high-quality cuts of meat over an open flame – into a cultural dining experience. Fogo is famed for its prix fixe Full Churrasco Experience that offers a continuous selection of premium cuts butchered daily by gaucho chefs, simply seasoned and grilled to create a craveable salty bark, then carved tableside. The naturally gluten-free Market Table offers a selection of seasonal salads, charcuterie, decadent fruit, superfoods and more. From celebratory to everyday occasions, Fogo provides selections for every daypart, including All-Day Happy Hour at Bar Fogo, Weekday Lunch, Dinner, and Weekend Brazilian Brunch. Guests can enhance their experience with offerings ranging from a shareable Wagyu New York Strip, South American wines, and more. For locations and to book a reservation to experience the fire of Fogo, visit fogo.com.
by Dennis Richardson | Sep 10, 2024
On August 28th, TIP celebrated the 4-year anniversary of their agency in true style, surrounded by family, friends, and collaborators who have been part of their incredible journey. Hosted at Damian DTLA, the evening was nothing short of special, with every detail, from the food to the ambiance, perfectly crafted to create an unforgettable night.
A Venue That Sets the Bar
Damian DTLA not only provided a beautiful backdrop for the celebration, but elevated the entire experience with their hospitality and service. Whether it was the thoughtful décor or the seamless flow of the evening, Damian DTLA proved to be the ideal location for an anniversary dinner. For anyone looking to host their own event or corporate gathering, the venue offers a sophisticated space that brings people together. Plus, their catering service with CASA MATA, is a must-try for larger events or business functions.
With a culinary experience nothing short of delicious, Damian DTLA delivered a menu that captured the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine with modern finesse. Each course reflected their dedication to quality and innovation, leaving guests impressed. From savory starters to decadent desserts, every bite told a story of the passion and creativity behind their kitchen. The food wasn’t just sustenance, it was an experience that tied the night together.
A Toast to the Future
What’s a celebration without a toast? Thanks to Altos Tequila, the guests enjoyed two signature cocktails crafted especially for the evening: the ‘No Hay Mañana Margarita’ made with Altos’ own recipe, and the ‘Hazlo Hoy,’ a refreshing Pineapple + Tequila cocktail. Both drinks perfectly complemented the spirit of the night; bold, refreshing, and full of life that served as reminders that Tomorrow Isn’t Promised and we must dream and do today!
Photo Credit: @jayanyse @tip.supply
Altos helped elevate the cocktail bar and brought their ‘Olmeca Altos® Plata Tequila’ to the table. As the night unfolded, it was clear that this was more than just an anniversary; it was a celebration of resilience, passion, and community. From heartfelt toasts to spontaneous laughter, the energy in the room was undeniable.
“The TIP team is beyond grateful to everyone who joined, especially the sponsors, Damian DTLA and Altos Tequila, for helping make this night a success. As we move forward into the next chapter, we carry the same values that have guided us through the past four years: community, creativity, and a commitment to building something meaningful. We are excited for the future and look forward to continuing this journey with all of you by our side,” said TIP founders Geza and Lucy Frey.
Interested in Hosting Your Own Event?
If you’re looking for the perfect venue or top-tier catering services for your next event, look no further than one of LA’s most iconic and beloved, Damian DTLA. Their team, setting, and intricate attention to detail make them the ideal choice for any special occasion. And if you’re in need of exceptional and smooth tequila to impress your guests, Altos Tequila is the way to go.
Photo Credit: @jayanyse @tip.supply
by Dennis Richardson | Sep 4, 2024
Celebration of surfing, film, art, and music comes to Encinitas from September 14-21
ENCINITAS, Calif. (Aug. 29, 2024) – Solento, the award-winning USDA-certified organic tequila, has announced the fourth annual Solento Surf Festival (SSF) presented by Outerknown from September 14-21. Curated by Solento founder, Surfer Magazine’s “25 Most Powerful People” and award-winning filmmaker Taylor Steele, SSF offers a week-long celebration featuring a Seaside Beach takeover, film festival, and cultural events that blend surf culture and Solento’s “take it slow” philosophy of living in the present.
Credit: Solento
Solento invites the community to live in the moment by immersing themselves in a series of unique events including:
- Seaside Beach Takeover: On September 14 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., the Solento Surf Festival will take over the iconic Seaside Reef with a surf contest, live music, local food vendors, a beach bar, partner activations, and more. This event is open to the public and free of charge.
- Film Festival: From September 19-21, the historic La Paloma Theater will host a film festival showcasing a curated selection of the year’s most exciting new surf films over three days. The festival will include screenings, panel discussions, raffles, live music, food, and drinks. Of note, tickets will be limited and available to purchase at https://solentotequila.com/pages/surffestival. Highlights include:
- Select films featuring talent, such as Kelly Slater, Noa Deane, Asher Pacey, Parker Coffin, Taro Watanabe, Levi Swanson along with the work of highly-esteemed directors, including Taylor Steele, Logan Dulien (Chucky), Keith Malloy and more. The full lineup will be updated on Solento Surf Festival’s website.
- A pre-screening meet and greet at Outerknown’s Carlsbad retail location held on September 21.
- Community Activations & Art Show: On September 17 at Four Moons Spa, the community is invited to enjoy works by Todd Glaser, Dave Muller, Jim Olarte, Oriana Poindexter, Mark Cunningham, and Schuyler Beecroft while sipping complimentary drinks from Solento, Kove, and Sydney Beer Co., and live music by Jon Swift.
Credit: Solento
“I am thrilled to bring the Solento Surf Festival back for a fourth year to my hometown of Encinitas,” said Taylor Steele, founder of Solento Organic Tequila. “Year after year, the festival continues to grow and provide a unique space for the community to come together and we’re excited to partner with Outerknown to offer an even more immersive experience. Each element is intentional in celebrating surf culture in its many forms while also being present and celebrating the slow.”
The Solento Surf Festival is supported by Outerknow, Yeti, Sun Bum, United Airlines, Vive Organic, and Electra Bicycle Company, along with local community partners. Raffle, surf contest, and drinks sales will support Surfrider Foundation, an environmental non-profit dedicated to protect and preserve the world’s oceans, waves, and beaches.
Tickets to the Solento Surf Festival are available for purchase at https://solentotequila.com/pages/surffestival.
About Solento Organic Tequila
Made for those who appreciate the ritual of slowing down and being present, Solento is an award-winning, USDA certified organic tequila range. The name Solento is based on the Spanish translation of the words “slow sun”. Solento celebrates the slow. Their certified organic agave grows slowly under the Mexican sun for seven years and is harvested in small batches from a single estate in Jalisco.
Credit: Solento
Championing field-to-sip organic craft, Solento’s award-winning team has been producing tequila for over 60 years. They practice a production process that respects the environment and favors quality over quantity. Harvesting in small batches from a single estate, our jimadors are meticulous in their technique; they carefully remove the bitter stem leaving behind only the naturally sweet parts of the agave.
by Lucy Crivelli Frey | Aug 30, 2024
Stephanie Cuevas, the founder and event director of Soco House, is making waves in the event management industry with a huge milestone—hitting $1 million in revenue for events at Paloma Venice, one of the premier venues-restaurants she manages. With a passion for creating unforgettable experiences and a commitment to empowering women, Stephanie has established herself as a leading force in Los Angeles and Orange County’s event scene.
Credit: TIP Supply
From humble beginnings in hospitality, where she honed her skills working in bars and restaurants, Stephanie quickly transitioned into managing events for a variety of venues. Her eye for detail, creativity, and ability to bring people together have made her the go-to event director for some of the most talked-about events in LA.
Stephanie has been a part of some iconic events such as the NFL Founders Dinner, her Annual 4th of July Party, and “Born x Raised Sadie Hawkins” Formals. Each event under her direction not only exceeded expectations but also reflected her dedication to her clients and community. During her time working with SoHo House, Stephanie also helped highlight the SoHo friends membership program and curated events that were specifically built with SoHo friends members in mind. She has helped open multiple venues across LA and has no plans of stopping.
One of the driving forces behind Stephanie’s success is her commitment to working with an all-women team. She believes in the power of collaboration and the unique perspectives that a diverse group of women bring to the table. Stephanie shares her insights for success, emphasizing the importance of tapping into your network and community. “Your connections are your most valuable resource,” she says. She also stresses the significance of being tech-savvy and understanding the evolving needs of your business to stay ahead in a tech-forward future. For Stephanie, investing in yourself is crucial—knowing when to hire a team that can help you elevate your business is a key step toward achieving greater success.
As Stephanie Cuevas continues to make her mark on the industry, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring event directors and entrepreneurs. With her leadership, Soco House is poised to continue setting new standards in event management, one memorable experience at a time.
Congratulations Stephanie!
by zuke oshiro | Aug 30, 2024
It’s the end of Summer! Not really, but it is a three-day weekend, and as such, it’s a good idea to plan ahead—or just stay home. But, here are some ideas that don’t require jets, boats or trains. They will likely involve traffic as this is a given in Southern California!
1. Beach Getaways
- Santa Monica Beach: Enjoy the iconic pier, sunbathing, swimming, and bike rides along the beach path.
- Laguna Beach: Explore art galleries, relax on the sandy shores, and take in the scenic beauty of this coastal gem.
- Malibu: Visit Zuma Beach for a more laid-back vibe or check out the tide pools at El Matador Beach.
2. Outdoor Adventures
- Santa Monica Mountains: Try trails like Solstice Canyon or Runyon Canyon for breathtaking views and a good workout.
- Griffith Park: Explore the park’s trails, visit the Griffith Observatory, or take a horseback ride.
- Catalina Island: Take a day trip for snorkeling, zip-lining, or simply relaxing by the water.
3. Festivals & Events
- Los Angeles County Fair: Running through Labor Day, this fair offers food, rides, exhibits, and live entertainment in Pomona.
- The Taste of LA: Sample food and drinks from top LA chefs and restaurants at this annual culinary event.
- Fiesta Hermosa: Head to Hermosa Beach for this arts and crafts festival, featuring live music, food stands, and local vendors.
4. Theme Parks & Attractions
5. Road Trips
- Joshua Tree National Park: Explore the unique desert landscape, go rock climbing, or stargaze at night.
- Santa Barbara: Spend a day in this charming coastal city, visiting wineries, shopping, and relaxing on the beach.
- Big Bear Lake: Enjoy boating, fishing, or hiking in the San Bernardino Mountains.
6. Music & Concerts
7. Dining & Food
- Food Trucks: Sample a variety of cuisines from LA’s best food trucks, often found at special Labor Day events.
- Rooftop Dining: Experience a sunset dinner with panoramic views at popular spots like The Rooftop by JG or Perch LA.
8. Family-Friendly Activities
- Aquarium of the Pacific: Take the family to explore marine life exhibits in Long Beach.
- LA Zoo: Spend the day with the animals, and enjoy special holiday programming.
- Santa Monica Pier: Enjoy the rides, games, and the aquarium with the kids.
by Loida McKinnon | Aug 29, 2024
As concerns about climate change and environmental sustainability grow, more people are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint in everyday activities. Laundry, a routine household task, offers several opportunities to make eco-friendly choices that benefit both your clothes and the planet. From using energy-efficient appliances to selecting eco-conscious detergents, there are numerous strategies to ensure your laundry routine is as green as possible. This article will guide you through the steps to achieve eco-friendly laundry without compromising on cleanliness or quality.
1. Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances
One of the most impactful ways to make your laundry routine eco-friendly is by using energy-efficient appliances. Traditional washing machines and dryers consume significant amounts of water and electricity, contributing to your household’s overall energy usage.
Energy Star Certified Machines: When shopping for a new washer or dryer, look for models with the Energy Star certification. These machines are designed to use less water and energy while still providing excellent cleaning power. Front-loading washers are typically more efficient than top-loading models, using up to 50% less water.
Cold Water Washing: Washing your clothes in cold water is a simple yet effective way to save energy. Heating water accounts for about 90% of the energy used by washing machines. Cold water is not only energy-efficient but also gentler on fabrics, helping to preserve colors and reduce wear and tear.
2. Use Eco-Friendly Detergents
The type of detergent you use plays a crucial role in both the cleanliness of your clothes and the health of the environment. Many conventional detergents contain harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and phosphates, which can harm aquatic life and contribute to water pollution.
Another effective way to ensure your laundry routine is eco-friendly is by utilizing professional laundry services in London. Many professional services have adopted sustainable practices, including the use of energy-efficient machines and environmentally friendly detergents. By outsourcing your laundry to a service that prioritizes green practices, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint without compromising on cleanliness or quality. These services often use less water and energy per load compared to standard home machines, and they are skilled in choosing the right settings and detergents for different fabrics, ensuring your clothes are well-cared for while also being kind to the planet.
Biodegradable and Plant-Based Detergents: Choose detergents that are biodegradable and made from plant-based ingredients. These detergents are free from harmful chemicals and are often just as effective as traditional ones. Look for products that are labeled as eco-friendly, biodegradable, or non-toxic.
DIY Detergents: For those who enjoy a DIY approach, making your own laundry detergent is a great way to control the ingredients you use. Simple recipes often include ingredients like baking soda, washing soda, and castile soap, which are gentle on both your clothes and the environment.
3. Opt for Natural Fabric Softeners
Fabric softeners and dryer sheets are common laundry additives that make clothes feel softer and smell fresher. However, they often contain chemicals that can be harmful to the environment and may irritate sensitive skin.
Vinegar and Baking Soda: A natural alternative to commercial fabric softeners is using white vinegar. Adding half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle can help soften clothes and reduce static cling. Baking soda is another eco-friendly option that can be added to the wash cycle to boost the cleaning power and keep clothes soft.
Wool Dryer Balls: Instead of using disposable dryer sheets, consider using wool dryer balls. These reusable balls help reduce drying time, soften clothes naturally, and decrease static without the need for chemical-laden products.
4. Practice Energy-Saving Drying Techniques
Drying clothes can be one of the most energy-intensive parts of the laundry process. Fortunately, there are several eco-friendly alternatives to using an electric dryer.
Air Drying: The most energy-efficient way to dry your clothes is by air drying them. Hang your clothes on a drying rack or clothesline either indoors or outdoors. Air drying not only saves energy but also helps extend the life of your clothes by reducing wear and tear from the dryer.
Low Heat Settings: If you need to use a dryer, opt for the lowest heat setting possible. High heat can damage fabrics and increase energy consumption. Also, make sure to clean the lint filter after each use to maintain your dryer’s efficiency and reduce the risk of fire.
5. Wash Full Loads
Washing full loads is another easy way to make your laundry routine more eco-friendly. Running a washing machine with only a few items wastes water and energy, as the machine uses nearly the same amount of both, regardless of the load size.
Maximize Each Load: Wait until you have a full load of laundry before running the machine. This maximizes the efficiency of your washing machine and reduces the number of loads you need to do each week.
Load Size Settings: If you must wash a smaller load, adjust the water level setting on your machine to match the size of the load. This simple adjustment can save a significant amount of water over time.
6. Choose Sustainable Fabrics
The type of fabrics you choose to buy and wear can also impact the sustainability of your laundry routine. Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon shed microplastics when washed, which can end up in waterways and harm marine life.
Natural Fibers: Opt for clothing made from natural fibers such as organic cotton, linen, and wool. These materials are biodegradable, renewable, and tend to require less water and energy to produce.
Care for What You Have: The most sustainable option is to care for the clothes you already own. By following the above tips, you can extend the life of your garments, reducing the need to buy new ones frequently.
Conclusion
Eco-friendly laundry practices are not only beneficial for the environment but also for your clothes and your wallet. By making conscious choices—such as using energy-efficient appliances, eco-friendly detergents, and natural fabric softeners—you can significantly reduce your environmental impact while keeping your clothes clean and well-maintained. Implementing these small changes in your laundry routine is a simple yet powerful way to contribute to a healthier planet.
by Randy Dunbar | Aug 21, 2024
If you’re looking to explore some of the best art shows currently happening in Southern California, there are several must-see exhibitions across the region:
- Ed Ruscha / Now Then at LACMA, Los Angeles (until October 6, 2024): This comprehensive retrospective offers a deep dive into Ed Ruscha’s career, showcasing his iconic works that reflect the American landscape and culture.
- Paul Mpagi Sepuya: Daylight Studio/Dark Room Studio at Vielmetter, Los Angeles (through October 22, 2024): Sepuya’s exhibition features photography that merges historical references with a contemporary, queer perspective, exploring themes of intimacy and visibility.
- Impermanence by Yukie Ishikawa at Blum & Poe, Los Angeles: This exhibit highlights Ishikawa’s unique style, blending minimalist elements with textured materials, resulting in hauntingly beautiful abstractions.
- Festival of Arts & Pageant of the Masters in Laguna Beach (through September 2, 2024): These iconic outdoor festivals feature works by some of Southern California’s finest artists and a live performance where art literally comes to life on stage
Ed Ruscha has consistently held up a mirror to American society by transforming some of its defining attributes—from consumer culture and popular entertainment to the ever-changing urban landscape—into the very subject of his art. In 1956, Ruscha left Oklahoma City to study commercial art in Los Angeles, where he drew inspiration from the city’s architectural landscape—parking lots, urban streets, and apartment buildings—and colloquial language.
As his first comprehensive, cross-media retrospective in over 20 years, ED RUSCHA / NOW THEN traces Ruscha’s methods and familiar subjects throughout his career and underscores the many remarkable contributions he has made well beyond the boundaries of the art world. The exhibition includes his early works produced while traveling through Europe, his installations—such as the Chocolate Room and the Course of Empire presented at the Venice Biennale in 1970 and 2005, respectively—and his ceaseless photographic documentation of the streets of Los Angeles beginning in 1965.
