by Lucy Crivelli Frey
The Artist Tree’s new Cannabis Lounge in Hawthorne just opened up, and let me tell you, this place is it. From the moment I stepped in, it felt like a modern, local version of their West Hollywood spot, but with a vibe that feels more… homegrown. It’s somewhere you’d want to meet friends, hang out, and really enjoy the space.
First off, the service? Top tier. You know when you walk into a place and the staff just makes you feel like a VIP? Yeah, that’s the energy here. You start by checking in at the dispensary, they then walk you through to the lounge. The bar room and seating area was just right; open, welcoming, and comfortable, with great hospitality all around. They even had water service at all times, so you never had to worry about staying hydrated while you enjoy their wide range of cannabis products (seriously, there’s something for everyone here).
The product selection was extensive. Whether you’re into flower, edibles, or something in between, they’ve got you covered. They also have different devices you can rent to enjoy your high! The Stündenglass gravity bong was a highlight for me.
And the drinks? Amazing. The Agua Fresca and To the Moon infused cocktails were a hit!
One thing I love about this spot is that you can rent it out for events. So whether it’s a birthday, a chill night with friends, or something bigger, the space has you covered!
Overall, The Artist Tree in Hawthorne isn’t just another lounge—it’s a safe space. Between the stellar service, dope products, and great atmosphere, it’s definitely somewhere I’ll be bringing my friends to. If you haven’t checked it out yet, make it happen. You won’t regret it.
by Anthony Cortez-Frere
Expressive takes on traditional sushi offerings drive the popularity of Izakaya Osen on a busy Sunset Blvd. corner in Silver Lake. A generous covered entrance patio off the parking lot is already staked out by regulars at 5 pm while inside, casual comfort with the flair of fine dining is lorded over by an elite line of sushi chefs and personable servers (like Skye, amazing!) who deftly craft your izakaya experience.
Starting with lush Seabass Croquettes and Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice with spicy almond aioli and eel sauce we decided to pair with beer and wine and save exploring the extensive list of curated sakes for the next visit.
Next, the sublime Yellowtail Jalapeño was a naughty pleasure with a hint of garlic which led us down the decadent road of ordering Chef’s 18-piece Premium Sashimi Hashimori, an irresistible cornucopia of variety, sensual mouthfuls, brine, and flavorful accents that turns the idea of sashimi heaven Thanksgiving on its head.
All in all, Damon Cho’s Izakaya Osen Silver Lake offers an updated take on the sushi tavern concept that is beguiling and also authentic.
Izakaya Osen
SILVER LAKE
2903 Sunset Blvd Los Angeles CA 90026
323-928-2220
HOURS
Sunday – Thursday: 12 pm – 10 pm
Friday – Saturday: 12 pm – 11 pm
https://izakayaosen.com/
by Contributor
Obesity is a growing public health concern across the United States, with the state of California being no exception. According to a GlobalData report, obesity can have profound economic implications in California, with the reduction in the economy amounting to $89.5 billion or about 2.5% of the state’s gross domestic product. Since obesity is a progressive condition that can decrease the quality of life and increase the risk of other chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, these economic costs mainly come from healthcare expenses and workforce productivity losses. For instance, there are 353,600 fewer adults in the workforce due to obesity-related unemployment and preventable deaths. Employers also spend $6.3 billion more on weight-related absenteeism and disability among overweight or obese employees. Considering the staggering costs of obesity on health and quality of life, obesity prevention, and management interventions must become accessible among Californians. Weight loss drugs emerge as an increasingly available option for overweight and obese residents, demanding a closer look at how they work and what patients must consider before taking them.
How weight loss drugs work
In a previous article from the ongoing Ask the Experts series, primary care physician Dr. David Nazarian explains that a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists is now being used for weight loss. Although GLP-1 agonists were originally used to treat type 2 diabetes, they can also be prescribed for chronic weight loss and management.
GLP-1 agonists mimic the brain receptors and gut hormones responsible for satiety and appetite control. By binding to GLP-1 receptors, these medications can curb hunger and slow down stomach emptying, thus preventing overeating and promoting weight loss.
Weekly injectables that aid weight loss
Weight loss drugs typically come in the form of weekly injectables, which means they are liquid medications administered with a needle and syringe. Among the GLP-1 agonists available to Californians enrolled in the Medicaid program is the liraglutide Saxenda, which may be used by adults with obesity or adults who are overweight and have a weight-related complication like diabetes or hypertension.
Likewise, Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for heart health and chronic weight management. After a House Bill was passed this year, California is now among the states whose Medicaid program covers Wegovy as weight loss drugs with added health benefits, such as improved blood sugar levels.
Another increasingly accessible GLP-1 agonist is Ozempic, which is also a semaglutide like Wegovy and can lower blood sugar and reduce appetite. However, since Ozempic is only approved by the FDA for type 2 diabetes, there have been concerns about its side effects on overweight or obese individuals.
Side effects of weight loss drugs
One of the most visible side effects of taking Ozempic for weight loss is Ozempic butt, which is characterized by the loose, sagging appearance of the buttocks. This phenomenon can be attributed to how Ozempic induces rapid weight loss of about 5.9% after three months and 10.9% without six months.
Losing a significant amount of weight within a short period means the skin can barely adjust and becomes less elastic, leading to wrinkly, sagging, and even aging skin. Other side effects of Ozempic include headache, dizziness, fatigue, and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. In 2023, about 12% of reported overdose exposures to semaglutide were from California, which also highlights the need for medical supervision when using weight loss drugs.
Other weight loss approaches
While weight loss drugs can be effective, overweight or obese individuals can reduce the risk of their side effects by looking into other weight loss approaches. A notable example is bariatric surgery, which manages obesity and related conditions through medical procedures like the alteration of gut hormones, reduction of stomach size, and modification or bypass of the intestines.
A news article reports that 4.4% of the severely obese children in southern California qualify for pediatric bariatric surgery, with children’s hospitals Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, UCLA Health, and Stanford Children’s Health offering the procedure.
Beyond these medical approaches, healthy and sustainable weight loss can also be achieved through lifestyle modifications like a reduced-calorie diet and regular exercise.
by Dennis Richardson
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
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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!
