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Cindy Miller 61Cancer diagnosed 12.08.09Individualized treatment 12.15.09Cancer-free 03.16.10Taking patientsfrom discoveryto recoveryThe Todd Cancer Institute (TCI) provides comprehensive cancerprevention and early detection programs. Our highly specializedphysicians are dedicated to the early diagnosis, treatment, researchand education for cancer, and our multidisciplinary team specializesin developing treatment plans suited to the specifi c needs of eachpatient. TCI is at the forefront of cancer care in the areas ofgynecology, breast, lung/chest, gastrointestinal and urinary cancers.Find out more about how we can prevent and fi ght cancer together.Call 800-MEMORIAL or visit memorialcare.org/tci.


TMNEXT MONTHHEALTH & HAPPINESSVOLUME 6 ISSUE 6PUBLISHER Mark StevensEDITOR-IN-CHIEF Brenda DuranASSISTANT EDITOR BreAnne ToepperHOME TOUR COORDINATOR Joen GarnicaCONTRIBUTING WRITERSJeff Brandvold, Cristina De León-Menjivar, Brenda Duran, Diane Gershuny,Kevin Hunter, Dawn Mori, Sarah Peters, Daniel Ramirez, Ryan Ritchie,Lily Salter, Cheryl Scott, Peter Surowski, BreAnne Toepper, Eric WienerPHOTOGRAPHERSJeff Farsai, Matt Fukushima, Chris Robertson, Alex Serrano, Hartono TaiCREATIVE DIRECTION & DESIGN – THE YELLOW LOFTArian Franz, Trina Luong, Chris Staiano, Pamela WangSENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Linda ParrickSENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Brett PotterOFFICE ASSISTANT Daniel RamirezADVERTISING562.366.2617sales@longbeachmagazine.comOFFICE MANAGER Jeff BrandvoldSUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE (USA)Mailed directly to your home or business:12 issues — $18 • 24 issues — $30 • 36 issues — $36Subscribe online at longbeachmagazine.com orsend subscription request along with payment to:Long Beach Magazine100 W. Broadway, Ste. 620 • Long Beach, CA 90802PUBLISHED BYMillworks Media, LLC100 W. Broadway, Ste. 620 • Long Beach, CA 90802Phone: 562.366.2617Fax: 562.436.2862E-mail: info@longbeachmagazine.comWeb site: longbeachmagazine.comTwitter: @LBMagBecome a fan on Facebook© 2010 Copyright All Rights Reserved. The Long Beach Magazine is published 12 timesa year for distribution throughout Long Beach and the surrounding neighborhoods.Statements, opinions and points of view expressed by the writers and advertisers are theirown and do not necessarily represent those of the publishers, editor or Millworks Media,LLC. Although The Long Beach Magazine has made every effort to authenticate all claimsand guarantees offered by advertisers in this magazine, we cannot assume liability forany products or services advertised herein. No part of the magazine may be reproducedwithout written permission from the publisher. Publisher reserves the right to accept orreject any editorial or advertising matter. All real estate offerings are subject to errors,omissions, prior sale, changes or withdrawal without notice. All real estate advertisedherein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act and Equal Housing Opportunities Act.06JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


DEPARTMENTSJUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE12 14 22 28LUXURY&STYLEFOOD&WINETRAVEL&LEISUREHOME&GARDENSHOPPING 12Travel In StyleBy Daniel RamirezWhile packing for your nextgetaway, add some of thesestylish must-have products toyour checklist. Bon Voyage!STYLE PROFILE 13Jeremy WrightBy BreAnne ToepperPhotographed by Jeff FarsaiThis pro bodyboarder travels theworld in style.RESTAURANT REVIEW 14Frenchy’s BistroBy Eric WienerPhotographed by Matt FukushimaA short journey to Anaheim Streettakes your palate thousands ofmiles away to France.A TASTE 17Long Beach Dining GuideIt’s hard to decide where toeat, let alone look, for newrestaurants. We help you get ataste of what’s available.BY THE GLASS 20Toast To The WorldBy Peter SurowskiWITHIN 3 HOURS 22Wonders Of The GrapeBy Ryan RitchieTemecula’s South Coast WineryResort & Spa is a one-stop shopfor all things relaxing.HOT SPOTS 24A Day In Long BeachBy Ryan RitchieEvery day in Long Beach isspecial, but this how-to guide willmake you fall in love with the cityall over again.WORLD CITIES 26Family Around The WorldBy Cheryl ScottHOME FRONT 28Cocktail Party 101By Sarah PetersPutting together a spectacularsummer cocktail party can beeasy when you have all of theright resources.HOME TOUR 30A Life At SeaBy Ryan RitchiePhotographed by Matt FukushimaPhoto Assistant Alex SerranoStyled by Joen GarnicaMitch and Nancy Mohr live inLong Beach, but their hearts areat sea.Several drinks — new and old— from overseas are gainingpopularity here at home.Long Beach Sister Citiessponsors a host of culturalexchange programs each yearwith cities around the globe.


46485052BUSINESS&MONEYHEALTH&ENVIRONSARTS&ENTERTAINMENTFACES&PLACESBUSINESS PROFILE 46A Quacking Good Time!By Cristina De León-MenjivarPhotographed by Chris RobertsonThe Rubber Duck Tours of LongBeach allow you to see the bestof the city on water and land.ECO 48Packing SmartBy Dawn MoriPacking for the ultimatesummer vacation requiressome handy suggestions fora light, efficient suitcase.WISE BOOKS 50Early Aviation In Long BeachBy Kevin Hunter5th District CouncilwomanGerrie Schipske captures therise of early aviation in the citythrough a historical, compellingphoto essay.DAY IN THE LIFE OF … 52Mario RodriguezBy Cheryl ScottPhotographed by Hartono TaiMario Rodriguez tackles themodernization of Long BeachAirport with a sense of historyand an eye towards elegance.COMMUNITY HERO 54Education For AllBy Diane GershunyThe Molina Foundation’smission is to enhancelearning and educationalperformance.ON THE STREET 56By Peter SurowskiPhotographed by Chris RobertsonLocals weigh in: What is yourfavorite vacation spot?SCENE & HEARD 57By Daniel Ramirezpets & people 58Jet Set PetsBy Lily SalterWhen traveling with pets, makesure to check travel guidelinesand pet needs before take-off.SOCIETY 62CALENDAR 64By Jeff BrandvoldLAST VIEW 66


editor’s letterYou know the saying, “dreams do come true?” Well,to some it comes across as a simple cliché, but thereare people who will tell you that dreams can becomereality — once you set your sights on them.One of those people is actress Vicki Lawrence, whois best known for portraying Thelma “Mama” Harperon both The Carol Burnett Show and Mama’s Family.When Lawrence invited LBM to her home on NaplesIsland for a fun interview and photo shoot, she had a lotto say about what it was like to be picked from obscurityto become an entertainment legend — a dream weknow so many people have. American Idol, anyone?the most of their time at their destinations by creatingsome memorable moments, often in very exotic locales.For those of you who don’t use your passports quiteas often, we have found some new and interestingways to help you make the most of the summer closeto home — and on a budget, to boot.On pg. 38, find some suggestions for frugal fun just ashort drive — or boat trip — away.This summer, the city has a lot to offer and has evenintroduced a “100 Days of Summer” to help you fill upyour social calendar and not drain your bank account.These days, Lawrence remains active by taking hercomedy on the road. Read her fascinating story on pg.34, where she recounts how her dreams exceeded herwildest expectations and took her to places she neverthought she would be.With this being our Travel & <strong>Leisure</strong> issue, we alsowanted to introduce you to a few fortunate residents whoget to discover new places — thanks to their day jobs,which allow them to travel all over the world, racking upfrequent flier miles and adventures all at once.You won’t want to miss out.On a final note, make sure to start bookmarkinglongbeachmagazine.com. We are in the midst oflaunching a new website that will also offer you anabundance of information on all leisurely activities inthis city and so much more.Happy summer!Sincerely,On pg. 42, find about the explorations of a few peoplein this town who travel for business, but also makeBrenda DuranEditor-in-Chief10JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


longbeachmagazine.com 11


LUXURY & STYLE : SHOPPINGTravel In StyleWRITTEN BY DANIEL RAMIREZ1 234561. SUNBATHE IN STYLE Strut your stuffpoolside or at the beach with this flatteringswimsuit and cover-up. Feel and look yourfinest in purple and green prints. Availableat Diane’s, 5239 E. Second St., $115 – 125.2. DEAR DIARY Journals and postcardsserve as the perfect recording of your travels.These chic decorative books are ideal forpenning your adventures during a morningcoffee. New origami and artistic postcardsare a unique way to message family andfriends back home. Available at ApostropheBooks, 4712 E. Second St., $12 – 20.3. GLOW ON THE GO Want a way to reduceflying fatigue and look great after your flight?Air Repair Skincare Kit offers a moisturizingrelief to a tired face. Included is the skinsoothingFacial Mist that hydrates with onespritz! Available at airrepairskincare.com, $65.4. MODERN TRAVEL Complete your summerlook with boho-style wallets and clutches.Easily store and organize your personals witha snap! Cleobella’s artisan designs capturefemininity in modern-day travel. Availableat Blue Windows, 5276 E. Second St.,$132 – 154.5. STUN IN THE SUN Look effortlessly lavishand comfortable in Lilly & Van print dresses.Wear these tropical colors and bold printsto your next summer cocktail party with apair of sandals. Available at qvc.com, $44.6. PASSPORT PLEASE Be a standouttraveler with Cleobella’s 100 percenthandcrafted passport holders and luggagetags. Made by Indonesian artisans, thesetravel essentials will have you breeze throughairport hassles in style. Available at BlueWindows, 5276 E. Second St., $48 – 70. n12JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


STYLE PROFILEWRITTEN BY BreAnne ToepperPhotographed by Jeff FarsaiJeremy WrightBorn and raised in Long Beach, pro bodyboarder Jeremy Wright still callsthis great city home. Wright said he’s been called a “gypsy” because heis always traveling for both work and pleasure. He has been bodyboardingsince the age of 17, allowing him to explore new places which he may neverhave known existed. Last year he was gone for eight months and has noplans to slow down anytime soon. When he is home, you’ll find him hangingout with his family and close friends. An all-around athlete, Wright loves tohang out at the Bay playing ultimate Frisbee, tennis, and has now takenup golf. He also likes to wear brands that support bodyboarding. His styledefinitely says “California cool” and shows his endearing love for the beach.Visit jeremy-wright.com for more information.Who are your style icons?If I had to choose one person, it would be the current Drop Knee worldchamp, David Hubbard. He’s a really unique individual with unique style.Where do you like to shop, locally, andelsewhere?When I get something in Long Beach I like to cruise down Second Street.Everything else I make sure to get at Alternative Surf in Seal Beach.Favorite brands/designers:My favorite brands are RXYM, Grand Flavor, Unite, I am None and PlasticPeople. My favorite designers are Nick Arant, Buzzy Jenkins and ChuckGuaranio.What is on your iPod?I am about to stretch and mellow out to Robin Sharma and Zig Ziglar.They are motivational speakers and I love their podcasts! They are reallyinspiring and positive.Are there any local designers you like andsupport?My best friend Kevin Jenkins owns Embrace Apparel, and makes somereally cool stuff.Since you travel a lot, where would you sayhad the most fashionable people?The top three that come to mind would be the people that I saw in Paris,New York and Portugal.What has been your biggest splurge?When I was in Australia last year, I bought this super-cool pair of GrandFlavour shorts and a pair of grey Unite jeans. They are both bodyboardingclothing companies and I wanted to support them. Plus, their stuff isawesome. I am not sure what the total was, but I know I wasn’t planningon spending as much as I did. nDo you know someone with their own sense of style? Email us atstyle@longbeachmagazine.com and let us know.longbeachmagazine.com 13


FOOD & WINE : RESTAURANT REVIEWFrenchy’sBistroWRITTEN BY Eric WienerPhotographed by Matt FukushimaThe sounds of popping corks echoed throughout the main dining room.Golden milk chocolate paints and deep maroon floors and drapesbrought forward the silhouette-painted canvases lining the walls. Theenvironment of the room transported me and a dinner companion tothe casual European affluence so well-associated with bistros.But, no one frequents Frenchy’s Bistro for the environment. It’s asomewhat well-kept city secret, known exclusively for the authentic,striking cuisine created by Southern France native, Andre Angles —the type of place our local French residents go when flying back toEurope for dinner is out of the question.On a recent dinner outing, we began with a medley of north regentsmoked fish — a trio of trout, mackerel, and salmon. Seasoned withcapers, lemon juice, and basil oil, the fish were salty, reminiscentof cold waters and cool breezes. Accompanying were warm breadmedallions with their anchovy and basil dip, herb twisted, faintly bitter,but smooth and surprising.The fish was followed by Frenchy’s onion soup served in personalized,petite iron kettles set upon lace-trimmed settings befitting the balanceof masculinity and femininity prominent in the romance languages.Three melted cheeses formed a stringy tarp over the smooth andgarlicky broth, enabling the soup’s flavors to live up to its presentation.From their simple and rustic nine-seat wine bar, we ordered glassesof the 2007 Blackstone Winery Merlot and 2008 Reserve de L’AubeCotes du Rhone Syrah & Merlot blend. A pared-down version of theirdinner menu treats those at the wine bar’s slightly more relaxed setting,which Chef Angles describes as “a nice element for first visits, for thoseperhaps intimidated by the restaurant’s exterior or the lofty conceptof French cuisine.”Nothing within Frenchy’s Bistro is overtly formal or intimidating though,which allows the focus to justly center upon their wine and food.Entrees arrived in the form of the Maple Leaf farm duck breast withMAPLE LEAF FARM DUCK BREAST14JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


FOOD & WINE : RESTAURANT REVIEWNORTH REGENT SMOKED FISH MEDLEYpeppercorn sauce and roasted fingerling potatoes, and braised beefshort ribs with horseradish mashed potatoes. The peppercorn keyed inall the components of the plump, succulent duck. Au jus traversed theshort ribs and potatoes, each soaking in the rich, wine-infused sauce.These were dishes to be slowly and carefully indulged between sips.Just as his restaurant brings the joys of French cuisine to this city,Chef Angles’s travels brought him to Southern California in 1988 —first to downtown, and then to Frenchy’s Bistro at its current locationin 1996. Since then, he and his wife and co-owner Valerie Angles haveexpanded, adding the wine bar, a separate waiting area, and a privatebanquet room used for a variety of local companies, nonprofits, and citygovernment events. Likewise, they host fundraisers for local hospitals,libraries, and the arts. Valerie will soon be opening Frenchy’s Fashion,a jewelry and clothing boutique downtown on East Broadway.Maintaining their infusion of regional influences, the evening endedwith the Provencal pine nut tart — a sweet, natural tart, savory andsubtle. Lavender ice cream oozed down from atop the tart, and lightstreaks of honey were painted across the dessert.Andre and Valerie Angles have managed to recreate Europeantaste and influence in the city’s least pompous French venue. It is atestament to their personalities and their cooking, and the experienceis a welcomed venture to somewhere and something new. nPINE NUT TART WITH LAVENDER ICE CREAMFrenchy’s Bistro4137 E. Anaheim St.562.494.8787frenchysbistro.com16JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


A TASTECAFÉ SEVILLA140 PINE AVE.Sangria, tapas, and Spanishguitar ensure that you enjoyevery minute of your diningexperience. Happy hour daily4:30 — 6:30 p.m. in the tapasbar with half off all tapas.Frenchy’s Bistro4137 E. Anaheim St.The traditional French bistromenu consists of delightfuldishes including French onionsoup, foie gras, crispy duck al’orange and scrumptiousdesserts. Let us cater yournext event.562.495.1111cafesevilla.com562.494.8787frenchysbistro.comFUEGO at the MAYA700 QUEENSWAY DR.Savor the cuisines of coastalLatin America by ExecutiveChef Jesse Perez as you enjoywaterfront dining, skylineviews and fine tequila. BuenProvecho!562.481.3903fuegolongbeach.comLA STRADA4716 E. Second St.From our flaky, warm pizzaoven bread to our signaturedishes, everything La Stradahas to offer is made withextra care and the freshestingredients. Open 7 days.562.433.8100lastradaon2nd.comLONG BEACH DINING GUIDE


A TASTEMcKENNA’S on the BAY190 N. MARINA DR.Parkers’ Lighthouse435 SHORELINE VILLAGETANTALUM6272 E. Pacific Coast Hwy.Utopia445 E. FIRST ST.A unique dining experience withbreathtaking views. Style, classand romance that intrigues yoursenses, with service and cuisinesecond to none. Truly waterfrontdining at its finest.Featuring a panoramic view ofthe harbor, Queen Mary, and cityskyline. We also offer the freshestseafood, prime steaks, chicken,and pasta. A dramatic waterfrontdestination with casual elegance.A journey into culinary paradise,Tantalum offers exotic waterfrontdining and a chic lounge toenjoy cocktails, daily specials,promotions and live entertainment.The menu changes seasonallyto ensure the freshest & highestquality ingredients.This bistro-type restaurantfeatures superb California cuisineand an unparalleled wine bar.Live music Thursday — Saturdaynights, with a critically-acclaimedart program.562.342.9411mckennasonthebay.com562.432.6500parkerslighthouse.com562.431.1414tantalumrestaurant.com562.432.6888utopiarestaurant.netA TASTE KEYBreakfastLunchDinnerSunday BrunchKids MenuWOKCANO199 THE PROMENADE N.BarFull BarLive EntertainmentLONG BEACH DINING GUIDEFor a limited time, come enjoy50% off Teppanyaki all dayMonday — Thursday & before5 p.m. Friday — Sunday.562.951.9652wokcanorestaurant.comParkingValet ParkingDeliveryCateringCredit CardsUnder - $15$15 - $30$30 - $50Over $50Based on appetizer, entrée, dessert, andnon-alcoholic beverage for one person.DDRI_PRH_0110_FINAL_outlines.indd 15/12/10 11:45 AM


With you when youneed a team rated #1by its clientsAt Wells Fargo Advisors, we’re committed to doing what’s right for our clients.In fact, according to Forrester Research, Inc., clients rated Wells Fargo Advisors(formerly Wachovia Securities) the #1 U.S. investment firm for doing what’sbest for them. So when we say we put you first, we mean it.With Financial Advisors and offices nearby and nationwide, we’re with youwhen you need someone who has the expertise to address today’s uniquechallenges.Wachovia Securities is now Wells Fargo Advisors.“Customer Advocacy 2009: How Customers Rate U.S. Banks, InvestmentFirms, And Insurers,” Forrester Research, Inc., May 2009.*Wells Fargo Advisors (formerly Wachovia Securities) ranked #1 in percentage of customers who agree with thisstatement, “My financial provider does what’s best for me, not just its bottom line.” Forrester Research, Inc. surveyed5,000 U.S. Consumers to rate their banks, investment firms and insurance companies on customer advocacy. Out ofthe 11 investment firms rated in the survey, Wachovia Securities was the #1 rated U.S. investment firm in customeradvocacy. The ratings may not be representative of any one client’s experience as the rating represents a sample of theFirm’s clients and past performance is no guarantee of future results.Richard K. Jacobs - Private Client GroupSenior Vice President - Investment OfficerComplex ManagerSeal Beach - Rolling Hills Estates - Torrance562-493-3511 • 562-277-6127richard.jacobs@wfadvisors.comInvestment and Insurance Products: u NOT FDIC Insured u NO Bank Guarantee u MAY Lose ValueWells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.©2009 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. All rights reserved. 0609-2129A [76765-v1] A1445


FOOD & WINE : BY THE GLASSToast To The WorldWRITTEN BY Peter SurowskiTwo hundred years ago, you’d have to travelthe world to taste the latest and greatestbeers and wines. Today, we can have themshipped in and enjoy them in our homes. Oh,the grandeur of the modern age!The market of great drinks is always changing,and new things become available on Americanshores every day.Lately, some of the best wines are coming tous from South America. With its cool climate,perfect altitude and rich soil, Chilean wineriesare catching the attention of critics. Becauseof the advantage of the U.S. dollar against theChilean peso, they also catch the attention ofthe wine lover on a budget. Many excellentChilean wines sell for less than $10.Alex Naticchioni, owner of The Wine Bar onOcean Boulevard, thinks Chilean wines canhold their ground against even the world’sbest — and most expensive — wines. In Aprilhe held a tasting session. He turned his back,poured two glasses, put them on the bar andhid the bottles.They were both wildly aromatic. One’s bouquetwas of cherry blossoms, raspberries and wetmahogany. The other was also fruity, withovertones of tart cranberries and dusty earth,but not quite as lively, nor as fragrant.The taste followed through. One was richwith citrus and berries with low tannin, andthe other, though still excellent, was harder,a little higher in tannin, and tasted of tangyberries and dry, loose soil.“Which one do you like better?” he asked.They were both excellent wines, but the firstone was more fragrant and the flavor wasmore vibrant. Naticchioni pulled the bottlesfrom the rack behind the bar. The better winewas a cabernet from Chile by PKNT. The other,a Bordeaux from France.“They’re cheap, different and good to thepalette,” he said about the Chilean wines. “Ido side-by-side comparisons and they test it,and they say, ‘Hey, wow, this is amazing andit’s an inexpensive one out of Chile’.”Wine isn’t the only surprise coming fromabroad. Mexico, famous for its pale, lightbodiedlagers, is shipping out some excellentmicrobrews that are everything Corona andDos Equis are not.Obscura, a brown ale made by Cucapá, amicrobrewery in Mexicali, Baja California, isa great-tasting example. It pours chestnutbrown with a tall, creamy head. The aromais of chocolate with hints of citrus. It tastesmalty with a hoppy backdrop and a hint oftart oranges.Unlike the new beers, the most exciting arrivalfrom overseas in the world of whiskey is morethan 100 years old. Paddy Old Irish Whiskey,20JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


an old staple in pubs all over Ireland, isfinally available in America.“Every time I go back to Ireland, people say,‘Bring me back a bottle of Paddy’”, saidChris Caldwell, 33, general manager of TheAuld Dubliner Irish Pub on Pine Avenue.Caldwell was born and raised in Donegal,Ireland, and his bar stocks more than 35different whiskeys, so Caldwell knowshis stuff.Parkers’ Lighthouse announces:WINE DINNERSERIESPaddy is known to go down light andsmooth with a peppery finish. It was firstproduced by Cork Distilleries Company in1877. In 1882, a young Patrick J. O’Flahertyjoined the company as a “traveller” or salesrepresentative. As O’Flaherty traveledfrom town to town, he offered up roundsof the Cork Distilleries Company OldIrish Whiskey.Another spirit making a long overduecomeback is absinthe. It was banned inthe United States, along with most countiesin Western Europe, in the early 1900s. Fornearly a century, you would have to goto Spain to try the world’s best and mostnotoriously-potent absinthe.Wine Pairings first Thursdayof each month from 7-9pmPARKERS’ LIGHTHOUSEWWW.PARKERSLIGHTHOUSE.COMSHORELINE VILLAGE | LONG BEACH | 562.432.6500Reservations required. Find us on facebook for news and special offers!In 2007, absinthe was finally made legal inthe U.S., and is popping up in more tavernsevery year. The drink is nearly 50 percentalcohol by volume — but sometimes asmuch as nearly three-quarters alcohol —and tastes of anise.Part of the drink’s allure is its ritualisticpreparation. There are two ways to serveabsinthe, the French Method and theBohemian Method.Whether your preferred choice is a goodold-fashioned beer, an old-time favoritelike Paddy or an exotic glass of flamingabsinthe, the best the world has to offercan all be found on the shelves behindmany of our local bars. nPhoto courtesy of Cucapá.longbeachmagazine.com 21


TRAVEL & LEISURE : WITHIN 3 HOURSWonders OfThe GrapeWRITTEN BY Ryan RitchieMy masseuse, Jennifer, was rubbingmy lower right leg when I realized thisre-christening of my extremity was the mostrelaxing moment of my previous 24 hours.It was an impressive feat, considering thehillside views, fine dining, wild rabbits andlizards and an award-winning winery thatcomprise the 39-acre South Coast WineryResort & Spa in Temecula, do nothing butcalm bodies and souls.My soothing getaway in Temecula beganwhen I opened the door to my king villaand was met with smooth jazz. I droppedmy bags and took a deep breath to soakin my room’s amenities, which included acouch, fireplace, a custom Carter Collectionmattress, a mini refrigerator, coffeemakerand a table for two with a complimentarybottle of Merlot from the on-site winery.22JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


After discovering a marble bathroomwith two sinks, a double vanity, a showerwith a seat and two heads and a tub withsoothing crystals, I knew I could spendmy entire vacation inside my villa andleave a very happy customer.Outside my room was a patio and vinesno less than five feet away. After takingthree steps from the bed, I was standingin the middle of a vineyard that overlookedthe Temecula Valley, and suddenly myroom was the second best part of my trip.Each guest at South Coast receives a freewine tasting, comprised of three pours.Connoisseurs know all about Napa Valley,France and Italy, but whenever Temeculais mentioned, the average response isthat good vino couldn’t possibly comefrom Riverside County. I was included inthis misinformed group, even though Iread that South Coast won the 2008-09and 2009-10 California State Fair WineCompetition. A sip of Rolling Hills Syrahgrabbed my attention, but it wasn’t untila Pinot Grigio awakened my taste buds,that I was convinced that Temecula wasa Native-American word for “secret landof amazing wines.”very upbeat and knowledgeable guide namedJustin. Our group was allowed access tothe massive vats and we got to sample twowines. The excursion ended with a tasting offour more wines, accompanied with cheese,grapes, a cracker and a strawberry in theVinter’s Garden.The day continued with a massage at thethree-story GrapeSeed Spa which sits in themiddle of the South Coast property and offersvisitors an array of massages, skin treatments,body rituals, saunas, private Jacuzzis, a yogastudio and a gym.The South Coast “ultimate massage” blendedwarm stones, aromatherapy, Swedish strokesand therapeutic techniques for a 50-minutesession that hurt so good. Jennifer appliedpressure to my back, neck and legs, but theattention given to my feet and hands siphonedthe remaining drops of energy from my body.Warm towels were placed over my eyes andfeet, and had Jennifer not woken me, I mighthave remained in that room forever.The only negative aspect of my experience atSouth Coast was that I had to leave. As checkoutapproached, I thought about barricadingmyself in my villa. I would have done it too,but I was way too relaxed for all that. nPhoto courtesy of South Coast Winery Resort & Spa.HOW TO GET THERETake Highway 22E to the 55N. Go easton Highway 91, then south on I-15. Exitat Rancho California Rd. and go left.South Coast is on the right side, sixmiles down Rancho California Rd.WHERE TO EATVineyard RoseWHAT TO SEEVinter’s Garden, tasting room, wine toursAfter an exquisite bowl of butternut-ciderbisque at the Vineyard Rose Restaurant, Iventured to the Jacuzzi, where the water’stemperature was a perfect match for thebrisk night air.Like a workaholic fool, I brought my laptopand discovered free WiFi, but after fiveminutes of trying to write, I tossed thecomputer in favor of staring at the sky.Devoid of man-made lights, the starsabove the valley illuminated not onlymy room, but every single pore of mycompletely settled body. For nearly a halfhour, I was not at South Coast, nor was Iin Temecula. I was in heaven.I hit my wine tour the following morning,comprised of eight other guests and alongbeachmagazine.com 23


TRAVEL & LEISURE : LOCAL HOTSPOTSA DAY IN LONG BEACHWRITTEN BY Ryan RitchieILLUSTRATION BY ARIAN FRANZFrom the urban landscape of downtown to the romantic Venetian canalsof Naples, this city has something to accommodate every mood for everyoccasion. For those looking to branch outside of their comfort zones,here is a morning-to-night schedule designed to blend soon-to-be newfavorites with well-known classics.Map and locations not to scale.11Carson St.VIENTO Y AGUASmoothie at Viento y Agua Coffeehouse & Gallery.Like Jell-O, there’s always room for the banana/peanut butter/oat smoothie at Viento y Agua.4007 E. Fourth St.51SHILLELAGHBreakfast at Shillelagh. There are countless breakfastjoints in town, but not many that serve plates cateringto both carnivores and vegetarians. Works by localartists adorn the inside walls, but the dog-friendlyoutdoor patio is absolute heaven. The ShillelaghScramble is great, but the staff never gets offendedwhen you ask for a personalized meal.2742 E. Fourth St.Cherry Ave.DOG BEACHDog Beach Zone. Watching dogs interact withother canines and people in such a sereneenvironment is a pleasant reminder of how simplelife should be. As an added bonus, your blissfulafternoon basking in doggie nirvana is servedwith a side order of a suntan.Ocean Blvd. between Roycroft & Argonne Avenues62FARMERS MARKETVisit one of the farmers markets. Morning marketshappen downtown every Friday, in the East Village ArtsDistrict every Saturday and the Marina every Sunday. Ifthe organic fruits and vegetables at prices cheaper thanthe grocery store aren’t enough, there are also vendorswho sell hot meals, people selling flowers, and freeentertainment in the form of acoustic bands. On Fridaysand Sundays, you absolutely must try a Fuji apple fromHa’s Apple Farm or the three-bags-for $5 deal fromLong Beach’s Peanut Dudes.Promenade N. and Fourth St., 430 E. First St.,E. Marina Dr. south of E. Second St.Long Beach Blvd.Atlantic Ave.Pacific Coast Hwy.Anaheim St.10HOLE MOLELunch at Hole Mole. Order the 49 cent potatotacos. Lots of them. Then plop in a quarter andplay Ms. Pac-Man while your food is prepared.421 Obispo Ave.9Redondo Ave.8Ximeno Ave.73BLUFF PARKSeventh St.Walk at Bluff Park. Just like the song says, the best thingsin life are free. A walk along Bluff Park just before noon isa healthy way to shake off the breakfast hangover whiletaking a gander at our city’s inspiring coastline.Along Ocean Blvd.2Fourth St.174513212Ocean Blvd.4RAZORBACKSHaircut at RazorBacks. You can’t feel good withoutlooking good, so head into RazorBacks on the corner ofFourth Street and Redondo Avenue. Sit down, pick up amagazine and ask for Pedro, who is not only the nicestbarber alive, but also the only employee there who cutsboth male and female hair.3400 E. Fourth St.3Livingston Dr.6Second St.24JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


PLANET BOOKSDig through cheap paperbacks at Planet Books. Longbefore iPads controlled our lives, people read books for fun.Fortunately, Planet Books remembers this era, and offersclassic paperbacks for less than the cost of your lunch.3917 E. Anaheim St.8KOHL’SNORDSTROMCOSTCOMACY SJCPENNEYJOE JOSTSWatch a baseball game at Joe Jost’s. Joe Jost’s t-shirtsare seen on the backs of people all around the world,because playing pool and having a schooner of beer,pickled eggs, Polish sausage sandwiches and roastedpeanuts has been a Long Beach tradition for 80 years.Go while the Dodgers or Angels are on the tube andyou’ll feel like you’re on the set of Cheers, because bythe end of the ninth inning, you’ll know everyone’s name.2803 E. Anaheim St.9HILLTOP PARKRelax at Hilltop Park. You’re having a great, but hectic,day, so why not take it easy for a moment? By visitingSignal Hill’s Hilltop Park, you’ll get the opportunity toview the Port of Long Beach, downtown, Belmont Shoreand even Los Angeles au natural or through the use of atelescope. Take a picture. Take a nap. Take it easy.2351 Dawson Ave.10Pacific Coast Hwy.2THE FACTORYDinner at The Factory. The food portion of the menuat Bixby Knolls’ hottest spot includes organic produce,grass-fed beef, sustainable seafood, and free rangechicken, while beer enthusiasts can enjoy approximately10 microbrews on tap.4020 Atlantic Ave.THE BASEMENTThe Basement Lounge. Whether it’s a puz quiz, theLightbulb Mouth Radio Hour, Big Audio, or local acts onstage, this East Village nightclub has something coolgoing on. It’s Long Beach’s best late night hangout.149 Linden Ave.WOKCANOLate night meal at Wokcano. Reason No. 14,000 to eatat Wokcano? They serve food until 1:30 a.m.199 The Promenade N. n111213Cargo Pants. Zip-up Hoodie. Hanging out with Dad.Some things are just essential.Lakewood Center ®LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF LAKEWOOD & DEL AMOS BLVDS.562.531.6707 | WWW.SHOPLAKEWOODCENTER.COMTWITTER.COM/LAKEWOODCENTERLos Cerritos CenterLOCATED OFF THE 605 FREEWAYON SOUTH STREET IN CERRITOS.562.402.SHOP | WWW.SHOPLOSCERRITOS.COMTWITTER.COM/SHOPLOSCERRITOSStonewood Center ®LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF FIRESTONE& LAKEWOOD BOULEVARDS IN DOWNEY.562.904.1832 | WWW.SHOPSTONEWOODCENTER.COMTWITTER.COM/STONEWOODCENTERThe Essentials of Style. TRI-0176-A02B AD1 JuneLBM.indd 1longbeachmagazine.com 5/14/10 3:4525PM


TRAVEL & LEISURE : WORLD CITIESROYAL PALACE IN PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIAFamily AroundThe WorldWRITTEN BY Cheryl ScottTo date, Long Beach has developed relationships with eight cities locatedin places as far away as Russia and China, all in an effort to develop strongconnections abroad. Long Beach Sister Cities, Inc. was founded in 1963when the city established a partnership with the city of Yokkaichi, Japan.Since then, it has formed relationships with Bacolod in the Philippines;Ismir, Turkey; Manta, Ecuador; Mombasa, Kenya; Phnom-Penh, Cambodia;Quingdao, China; and Sochi, Russia.“Our sister cities are chosen for their similarity to Long Beach,” Vaughnsaid in a recent interview. “They are port cities with diverse populations, aswe are. We also choose cities with a large population in Long Beach. Forinstance, we have one of the largest Cambodian populations in the U.S.This makes for exciting cultural events, like the Cambodian parade heldrecently. Dignitaries from Cambodia came and Cambodian residents ofLong Beach participated by dressing in native costumes and preparingCambodian food.”The organization is currently managed by an eight-person board oftrustees. Chairman Michael Vaughn, who also heads the committeefor Yokkaichi, said the organization was first formed in responseto President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s request that we expandcultural exchange programs that foster people-to-people contactbetween countries.The organization is responsible for more than 20 cultural exchangeprograms every year.The Sister City relationship is established formally by the Long BeachCity Council at the behest of a committee of at least 15 citizens whocontribute toward a deposit of $1,000. The entire process takes one ortwo years. “It’s necessary to have an extremely enthusiastic group of26JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


citizens to get a chapter off the ground,” said Vaughn. “Typically, they aremotivated by common interest in a particular country that has a significantpopulation here.”The cultural events staged by Sister Cities are as varied as thecountries that participate. Yokkaichi and Long Beach exchangestudents, who live in the homes of residents and participate inprojects that foster common goals of each city. Long Beach sent its65-member marching band to participate in the 100th anniversary of thecity of Yokkaichi.Sochi, a resort city located on the Black Sea, is known as the “RussianRiviera”. In October the city will send a delegation to a Russian writersfestival that will be held at CSULB and is being co-sponsored by SisterCities. Heading up the delegation will be the great-grandson of Leo Tolstoy,who will read from the author’s works. A translator will assist with thereading and with a question-and-answer session.Richard Madeira, a documentary filmmaker, has been on eight delegationsto Russia. Last year he accompanied Long Beach artist Trace Fukuhara,who created a large mural for the local train station. “Sochi has a statuedepicting the city enfolded in the arms of an angel,” said Madeira. “Trace’smural depicts both cities in the angel’s arms. Six other Long Beachresidents went to Sochi to help with the mural.”Pat McMaster is president of the Manta, Ecuador chapter, the newest inthe Sister City organization. “We recently took our first trip to Manta,” shesaid. “We donated more than 20 computers to their schools, as well ascontainers of walkers and wheelchairs.” This year a delegation of lifeguardsfrom Long Beach will travel to Manta to train its lifeguards. “The city hasnever had lifeguards before,” said McMaster. “I don’t know why, but it’s agreat way to foster the relationship between our cities.”Bill Preston has taken two delegations to the city of Mombasa in Kenya. InFebruary of last year, the city’s deputy mayor, John Mcharo, led a delegationthat presented a special collection of books on the history of Mombasaand Africa to the main branch of the Long Beach Library.“It’s important for us to know each other’s history,” Preston said. “It’simportant to encourage all of these relationships with people from othercountries. We have so much in common, living in cities that are basicallythe same size, with a focus on their ports and trade.”Madeira praised President Eisenhower for recognizing early on thatvigorous relationships between the people of countries around the worldwould be a step toward preventing war and fostering growth.“The Sister City program is an outlet for the type of culturalexchange that creates a bond between countries,” Madeira said.“It also provides a host of fascinating and exciting events both hereand abroad.” nMake memories to last a lifetimeFine Photography by Lyca FaulknerTel 310.601.0646www.finekidsphotography.comlongbeachmagazine.com 27


HOME & GARDEN : HOME FRONTCocktail Party 101WRITTEN BY SARAH PETERSThrowing a summer cocktail party is a fresh and fun way to bringfriends together at the end of a hectic work week, and hostingone is a lot easier than you think. Take the advice of local expertson how to keep planning simple, and your home or apartment willbe party-perfect in time for the Summer Solstice.“The easier you make throwing a party on yourself as a host orhostess, the more fun you will have — and the more fun yourguests will have,” said Sasha Witte, interior decorator and ownerof Sasha Witte Interior Design Studio and Store.If you don’t own a large dining table or are short on chairs,throw some cushions onto your floor around a coffee table andincorporate them into your party’s atmosphere. Low-hangingpaper lanterns are a simple and affordable way to cast an exoticfeel over any room, Witte added.“A theme is a nice way of helping everything fall into place,” sheexplained. Extras like interesting serving dishes and napkins helpunify and pull a party together.The first thing a person worries about is readying his or her home forhaving a party. Instead of buying tons of supplies, Witte suggestsworking with what you already have available, and stopping into ahome design shop for some simple extras. “I find it wonderful howyou can hide a multitude of design shortcomings with dim lighting,a few candles and some well-placed fresh flowers,” Witte said.With summer’s arrival, garden-themed parties are especially funand easy, whether you have a patio or not. Witte especially likescandle-safe lanterns which can add instant ambiance, and usingfresh sprigs of greenery, rather than floral arrangements, to bringa garden feel to your home or patio.28JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


“Green” parties are also increasing in popularity, and make foraffordable decorating, said professional party planner KimberlyGoetz, owner of A Pixie Planned Event.prepared food and several easy recipe directions. Do the samefor the drinks, but on a separate table which has both alcohol andnonalcoholic options, Nguyen said.Potted flowers are cheaper than large floral arrangements, are lesswasteful and double as party favors, she said. The plastic pots canbe dressed up with fabric and ribbon to match your theme, andcan then be taken home by guests as a colorful reminder of theevening. One mistake that most often drags down a cocktail partyis making the food and drinks uninteresting and difficult to serve.“It’s always good to spend time developing the menu because it’sthe main thing that keeps people there,” said professional partyplanner Uyen Nguyen, owner of Sassy Girl Weddings and Events.“Music is important, but it doesn’t keep people at a party the wayfood and drinks do.”Don’t just plan out the appetizers and the dinner dishes — thedrink menu should be as carefully crafted as the main course,Nguyen said. People most enjoy interactive parties that providesomething to do and talk about. A great way to host an interactiveparty is by setting up tables in which your guests can becometheir own chefs and bartenders.To do this, set out an attractively arranged array of fresh or partiallyTo up the fun, propose a contest like “Most Delicious Martini”.This not only gives your guests something to do and encouragesmingling, but it also diffuses some of the stress away from thehost — leaving you with more time to enjoy your guests.On the night of your event — even if you preplanned and feeltotally ready — be prepared to be surprised.“Whatever you do, don’t panic, and remember that everything isreplaceable,” Goetz said. “Things can happen at any event, andyou just have to roll with it.”The worst reaction to have as a host is to respond negatively to anyissues that arise, such as wine spills, broken glasses, or burningthe main course. “You can’t change the mood of the party justbecause there was an accident, and there are always remedies,”Goetz said, “You must always have a backup plan.”Lastly, the best solution when your nerves start feeling frayed isto return back to the basics: have a seat, open another bottle ofwine and let yourself enjoy your own party. nlongbeachmagazine.com 29


A Life At SeaWRITTEN BY Ryan Ritchie Photographed by Matt FukushimaPhoto Assistant Alex Serrano Styled by Joen GarnicA


SALON


The Two FacesOf VickiWRITTEN BY Brenda DuranPHOTOGRAPHED BY Jeff FarsaiVicki Lawrence lives a double life.To those close to her, she is known as a red-headed,supportive mother, wife and pet-lover, who enjoys dinners at Nico’sand walks near her “golden pond” by her two-story home on NaplesIsland.the likes of Bing Crosby, Lucille Ball, Ella Fitzgerald, Gloria Swanson,and even the Jackson 5 by the age of 18.“It was surreal,” Lawrence recalls. “I would watch the show on TV,peeking in between my fingers and say, ‘Oh God, could you be moreof geek! What are you doing out there?’”In the public eye, to thousands of loyal fans, she is Thelma Harper,or “Mama” — a politically incorrect, sharp-tongued, boisterous, ruralsenior citizen whose famous exclamation of “Good Lord!” becamea part of television history.“Sometimes I kind of hate her,” joked the television icon about heralter ago in a recent interview. “She gets all the good jokes, shehas all the fun!”The relationship between Lawrence and “Mama” has been asymbiotic one since the two merged in 1967, when Lawrence joinedthe legendary The Carol Burnett Show on CBS.Lawrence, who has called this city her home for the past 24 years,said her charmed life in Hollywood began with a simple twist of fatewhen she decided to pen a fan letter to one of the most famouscomediennes of all time — Carol Burnett.“I told her how funny it was that we looked so much alike, and I thinkshe saw that as a novelty,” said Lawrence.That letter ended up leading to a gig on Burnett’s national televisionshow that taped at CBS studios’ stage 33, which was next door toThe Sonny and Cher Show, and where she would rub elbows withEventually, putting all of her showbiz fears aside, Lawrence went onto launch a career that earned her a far-reaching fan base to this day.Since 2002, the Emmy-award winning actress has been hitting theroad with a stage crew, donning a curly silver wig, a string of pearls,and stuffed voluptuous body suit covered by flower-print dresses tokeep the legendary “Mama” alive. At the same time, she has beenintroducing herself as Vicki in an autobiographical stand-up routinethat is part of her live show, Vicki and Mama: A Two Woman Show.“My first love has always been comedy,” said Lawrence, who alsostars in Hannah Montana. “I think it’s a nice gift to be able to makepeople laugh.”Creating a LegacyRaised in Inglewood, California, Lawrence said that unlike manyfamous comedians, she did not set out to make a living by makingpeople laugh — ever. Although in close proximity to Tinseltown,Lawrence said her early aspirations as a teen were to become adental hygienist and wear a uniform to work everyday.“I had a plan once, I did. I just got totally sidetracked,” she said.longbeachmagazine.com 35


FEATURE : The Two Faces Of VickiLawrence credits Burnett with believing in her talent as a comedienne,even though she was not a polished actress when they first met.copies and hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts and earned agold disc as well. She also talks about the days when she had anEmmy-nominated talk show for two seasons, simply called Vicki!“Carol told me I would have made my way to Hollywood one way oranother,” Lawrence said. “She told me ‘all I did was open the door— all you had to do was walk through.’”Lawrence compares being on the Burnett show to “going to theHarvard School of Comedy in front of America”, where she was ableto develop the character of “Mama” further, eventually leading herinto her own sitcom Mama’s Family in 1983, a few years after theCarol Burnett show went off the air.In the years that Mama’s Family was on the air, Lawrence looselybased her character on mothers and mother-in-laws she knew atthe time.“I think everyone has her [Mama] in their family. She is a lot likeArchie Bunker,” Lawrence said. “Everyone has one of those in theirfamily, no one ever fesses up to being an Archie Bunker, but sheis like your old crazy aunt that says the most outrageous things atthe Thanksgiving table and everyone is laughing, thinking, ‘Oh myGod, can you believe she said that?’”Lawrence said her material as Vicki is as abundant as for “Mama”,and she loves every minute of it.Love for Long BeachWhen she is not on the road, Lawrence is at her Naples Island homeprepping for the next show and spending time with her pups — Tasha,a chocolate Labrador, and Lucas, a petit basset griffon vendeen.She said she enjoys coming home to her peaceful neighborhoodthat she never takes for granted.In 1986, she and her husband of 36 years, Al Schultz, once a make-upartist on The Carol Burnett Show, decided to settle on Naples Islandrather than in Hollywood or Beverly Hills for the quality of life andthe ability to look out at the ocean now and then.The couple and their two children — Courtney, now 35, and Garrett,now 33 — had moved from Hidden Hills, California, to Maui aftergetting married, but always remembered the pleasant backdrop ofthe ocean in Long Beach, where they visited on numerous yacht trips.Although the show went off the air in 1990, “Mama” has madecountless appearances in casinos and performing arts centers allover the country. She even penned her own book in 2008, titledMama For President: Good Lord, Why Not? with funny quips oneverything from immigration to foreign relations.Lawrence calls “Mama” her opportunity to be her own version ofChris Rock by ruffling some feathers when she can. In her twowomanshow, she has brought “Mama” into the the current centuryby having her discuss such diverse topics that include the recentTiger Woods scandal to toilets that flush three times to womenputting their makeup on while driving.When putting her show together, Lawrence said she did not want itto be retrospective, but rather forward-thinking and relevant. Whenit came to “Mama”, she also wanted to make sure people don’tforget her as the real woman behind the character.“I knew I wanted to be me for half of the show before I am not meanymore, while I still look like me,” Lawrence said. “Sometimes I feelI could just die and no one would know as long as Mama is around.I need to be me for a minute. I have a lot of good stories to tell.”Some of those stories include how she once had a one-hit record,“The Night the Lights Went Out In Georgia”, which sold over 2 million“If we had been smart we would have come straight to Long Beachand bypassed that whole Hawaii trip. We went to the wrong side ofthe ocean!” Lawrence said.Lawrence notes that her favorite part about living in Long Beach isthat it feels like a small town where everyone knows their neighbors.“This is like living in a resort. There is not a day that I don’t walk thedogs and look around in marvel,” she said.Lawrence has made many local friends and has many local favoriteplaces. She shops at La Bella clothing store, frequents Kelly’s, 555and Open Sesame restaurants, and likes to show off to her Hollywoodfriends when they come visit with an occasional trip to the Pike or aride on the couple’s Duffy boat.“Our friends always say, ‘We had no idea [about everything that LongBeach offers]’. I tell them, ‘Shh, don’t tell anybody,’” Lawrence said.Lawrence has also volunteered her time here, including heading upthe DARE program at her son’s school years ago, and also hostingThe Women’s Breast Center walk for Long Beach Memorial Hospitalmany times.“I love this town,” said Lawrence. “It is a great place to live.”36JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


VICKI AT THE PIANOFame and FamilyLast month, Lawrence filmed her last episode on Hannah Montana,where she played Grandma Stewart to Miley Cyrus’ title characteron the show. It was a second acting part she was able to squeezein with her show over the last few years.She said she is going to continue her two-woman show, and hasno specific plans for the future. “I like to let things unravel magicallylike it has most of my life,” said Lawrence.In her home, Lawrence proudly displays many of those magicalmoments, such as a CBS stars group photo taken in the late 1970swith 113 stars, including Lucille Ball, Mary Tyler Moore, Dick VanDyke, and Vivian Vance, among many others.Besides her entourage, not much has changed about Lawrence or“Mama”, especially when it comes to her views about the magic ofcomedy. Lawrence said when she had her own talk show, she cameup with her life motto and hung it on the wall to remind her: “Life ismuch too serious to be taken seriously”.“The older I get, the more true that is,” she said. “I just want peopleto laugh. I think we all need that so desperately right now.”Lawrence said she hopes her alter ego will be able to provide thatcomic relief to everyone who comes to her shows for years to come.Although she has lived two lives — one as Vicki and one as “Mama”— Lawrence said that she ultimately wants to leave behind the samelegacy for the two.These days on the road, she is also creating special memories bymaking her two-woman show a family affair. Her husband, Al, isnow the director of her show, and her son Garrett works with her asher stage manager.“I want people to look back and say ‘she made me laugh,’”Lawrence said. nClothing styled by Cherie D’Sa of La Bella.Hair & Makeup styled by Dusty of Salon Gregorie’s.longbeachmagazine.com 37


38CATALINA JUNE ZIP 2010 LINE TRAVEL & LEISUREPhoto courtesy of Santa Catalina Island Company


Frugal FunWRITTEN BY DAWN MORIDon’t let the recession dampen your summer fun!Thanks to an award-winning Parks & Recreation Department, apopular summer music series, world-class tourist destinations,and an ocean at our doorstep, the perfect summer vacation is justa hop, zip, and a jump away.100 DAYS OF SUMMERThere are also listings of activities where families can spendtime together, from the Long Beach Sea Festival and Target FreeSundays at MoLAA, to ongoing programs at the El Dorado NatureCenter, including Family Nightlife Walks and evening campfires.Best of all, the website gives you the perfect excuse to discoversomething new.It’s a sign of the times when an entire summer can be scheduledfrom your phone. 100daysofsummer.org is the city’s newest website,listing more than a thousand free or low-cost activities throughLabor Day.Smart, efficient, and a whole lot of fun, the program is an ingenioustag-team effort from the Long Beach Parks & Recreation Departmentand the Long Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau. The sheernumber of activities showcase the city’s diversity and is a dazzlingreminder of why the city is so special.“100 Days of Summer is the best way to get information directly toresidents, as there are so many vacation opportunities right hereat home,” said JC Squires, Business Operations Bureau Managerfor the City of Long Beach Parks, Recreation & Marine Office. “Thecity has 27 community centers, 156 parks, two Rancheros, and anature center — and most programs are low-cost or free. Peoplecan go to the nature center, to the beach, rent a kayak. All theyhave to do is put together an itinerary.”Looking for children’s activities? Check out the recreationalswimming programs or the Long Beach Dragon Boat Festival.Teen centers around the city offer sports, games, movies and crafts.For seniors, there are gardening classes, bingo, social dances andtours of Rancho Los Cerritos.Adults can enjoy kayaking through the canals or Seafood for theFuture — evenings of eating and conversation with the city’s bestchefs — complete with wine pairings and the added ambience oflive music and the fountains at Terrace Plaza.“There is so much you can do in the city, be it in the park, in theneighborhoods you’ve never been to, or exploring another partof the city,” said Jeff Forney, Vice President of Marketing of theConvention and Visitors Bureau. “Rent a bike, go to a movie on abeach or to the Rancheros. If you find yourself with nothing to doon a day, you can definitely find something here!”SUMMER OF MUSICIf that something for you is music, the Downtown Long BeachAssociation’s Summer And Music series gears up for anotherhomegrown, environmentally-sustainable concert series.Affectionately known as SAM and free to the public, this year’smusic series will feature more mid-to-large sized shows, with totalattendance predicted to reach 34,000 people. Future Legends kicksoff the ten concert series on Saturday, June 12, in the East VillageArts District. Performances also will be held on the waterfront andPine Avenue, with genres ranging from rock and rockabilly to jazz,soul, and blues. The largest event of last year’s series, the FunkFestival, returns on August 7 to Pine Avenue.“SAM is winding up for an even bigger, greener turnout this year,”said Steve Sheldon, DLBA Marketing and Special Events Manager.Running from June through August, the 2010 SAM features morethan 60 acts, all on solar-powered stages.Sheldon points to a partnership between the DLBA, the Long BeachRedevelopment Agency, and local businesses for making the seriessuccessful. Formerly the Downtown Music Series, last year thelongbeachmagazine.com 39


FEATURE : FRUGAL FUNHOTEL MAYA OVERLOOKING PALMERAS SKYLINEPhoto courtesy of Paul Dyer2009 SUMMER AND MUSICPhoto courtesy of Robert MatthiasAVIA ROOFTOP POOLPhoto courtesy of AVIA Long BeachDLBA approached Rand Foster, owner of Fingerprints in BelmontShore, and Justin Hectus, past president of the Arts Council forLong Beach, to transform the series — and they delivered.Not only was the series revitalized, it made a positive impact onlocal businesses, drawing thousands to the waterfront and thecity’s newest green space, Promenade Square. It’s a great way tospend the summer with thousands of your closest neighbors andexperience the energy of downtown Long Beach. “We are confidentthat this year’s SAM will be bigger, better, and more successfulthan its inaugural season,” said Sheldon.HEAD TO CATALINAIf it’s an easy day-trip you’re after, look no further than CatalinaIsland. With a recent $11 million renovation, two island favoriteshave been transformed into must-see destinations. The PavilionHotel has been upgraded from its mid-1950s roots into an eleganthideaway, perfect for a quick escape from urban living. TheDescanso Beach Club now includes 14 private cabanas, 50 teakchaise lounges complete with umbrellas, and an expanded beachthat makes room for two fire rings.The highlight of the renovation, however, is the Catalina Zip LineEco Tour, a wildly successful two-hour, five zip line tour, the onlyone of its kind in Southern California.“I have never been associated with anything that has received aresponse like the zip line,” said Brad Wilson, Chief Marketing Officerof the Santa Catalina Island Company. “It is very, very unique.People who go, totally love it.”In operation for only two months, the zip line tour has sold out nearly40JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


every weekend, and even weekdays are filling fast, Wilson said.with live entertainment.Starting nearly 600 feet above Avalon, each guided, 12-persontour travels along five individual zip lines totaling 4,000 feet. Ridersreach speeds of up to 45 miles per hour in a gradual descentacross Descanso Canyon.Each zip line lands on a wooden eco station, with each platformholding information on the island’s environment and history. It’sa nice opportunity to learn about our neighbor across the sea.“Being as close as we are to Long Beach, people don’t realize thatyou would have to travel a lot in order to get the type of experiencewe are offering — you would have to go to a destination muchfarther away than where we are now. This is the only zip line like thisin Southern California, and with all you can experience in Avalon,you are only an hour’s boat ride away,” said Wilson.PAMPER YOURSELFOver at the Pike, the 138-room AVIA Long Beach offers residents astaycation discount to enjoy its Rooftop Pool Deck, complete withoversized umbrellas, sunshades, and ocean view. Breakfast at theAVIA Kitchen features fresh local fruits and homemade granola,and in the evening, its Lounge features a small plate menu.If a friendly neighborhood spa is your cup of tea, Ambiance Skincarein Belmont Heights offers last-minute specials on its Facebookpage and monthly specials on its website.Some of Ambiance’s treatments include detox body wraps andsugar scrubs, as well as facials and sunless airbrush tanning —just in time to sport a bronzed look at the beach this summer.From archery ranges in the park to the zen of a moment alone, thecity offers countless options for a summer of frugal fun. Even thecity’s top ambassadors will be jumping into the action.For those who find inactivity the ideal vacation, the city’s world-classhotels and spas are just for you. This summer, the 197-room HotelMaya makes it easy for residents to enjoy a weekend away with its“Road Trip” packages, which include accommodations, summerdrinks, complimentary parking, and even a souvenir postcard.The pet-friendly, waterfront hotel will host Sunday pool partiesthroughout the summer, in addition to its Fiesta Domingo brunchIt’s a perfect reminder that your best summer getaway can befound right here at home, said Forney, an outdoor enthusiast whowill be spending his free time on the city’s 64 miles of bike trails.“It’s all about getting out in your own community and exploring,”Forney noted. nlongbeachmagazine.com 41


forgotten I had done that so many years ago.”Travel, however, has always been part of life for Rowe. The RedondoBeach native spent her early years in Tunisia when her parents were inthe Peace Corps, followed by a move to Iowa, where summers meantfamily road trips.Now both in their late 30s, the couple tries to combine their travelswith weekends together, finding time to meet-up in Chicago,Colorado, or New Orleans, at the beginning or end of one or theother’s business trip.This month’s schedule marks an extended time apart, as Fisher willspend June at his company’s New Delhi office. He will be workingnights and sleeping days, as his office keeps West Coast hours, evenhalf a world away.Managing a relationship is more than just finding time — no matterthe time changes — explains Rowe. “It’s not just that both of us aretraveling — it’s also just coordinating our schedules, airport pickups,cat sitters, etc.”Video chats on Skype make the time apart more bearable. Anotherroutine Rowe has is taking pictures from the plane. She now hashundreds of photos, a collection she jokingly says will hang in theirhallway in airplane window-sized frames.If it happens, it will be a noteworthy exhibition, telling the story oftwo people who found time for each other, no matter the distancebetween them.Expert AdviceAs for traveling tips, all four savvy travelers pay strict attention to airlinesecurity guidelines and pack just what they need, including a sense ofadventure and a willingness to find one’s way around.Rowe recommends iPhone apps, with some of her favorites beingthe weather, currency converter, CitySearch, Yelp, and National PublicRadio Finder.Stuhlbarg recommends taking tours, especially those dedicated to aspecial interest you might share, such as architectural tours or onesthrough a city’s financial district.Baxter advises taking any opportunity to travel, whether on business orfor pleasure, adding to the special collective experience she shares withher fellow frequent flyers. “Travel while you are [still] in good health,”she said. “Someday you won’t be able to, and you’ll have wonderfulmemories.”in the end, [the pandemic] didn’t have a lot of punch.” nlongbeachmagazine.com 45


BUSINESS & MONEY : BUSINESS PROFILEA QuackingGood Time!WRITTEN BY Cristina De León-Menjivarphotographed by CHRIS ROBERTSONIts big, its yellow and it likes water and land. You’ve probably seen it. Infact, you’ve probably stared at it and wondered what it does and whyit’s shaped like a large duck.inception, business has been steadily growing, and Gerald Tautenhahnstated that they are eagerly anticipating business this summer as moretourists make their way to the city.It’s the hydra-terra vehicle used by the Rubber Duck Tours of LongBeach, and if you have an hour, their guides will make even city nativesfeel like they’re a tourist in their own backyard.The Rubber Duck Tour is a part-land, part-water historical tour ofdowntown and the Harbor, which attracts both locals and visitors dueto its unique nature and fun guides. The company was founded by twinbrothers Carl and Gerald Tautenhahn and friend Brent Harrison. It isrelatively new to the downtown area.This June will mark their first year in business. Since the company’sThe inspiration to begin the tour company in this city came from a tourthat Harrison took while visiting Miami. With all the hustle and bustleof the downtown area and its neighboring Harbor, Harrison proposedcreating a similar touring company in Los Angeles County. While theconcept may seem unique and rare, similar Rubber Duck tours can beexperienced in San Diego and all over different parts of the world. Fornow, though, the Rubber Duck Tour of Long Beach is the only one ofits kind in both L.A. and Orange County.The interactive tour begins with the distribution of “quackers”, which aremini plastic bills that make a duck sound. These little noise-makers are46JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


Ad Specs:Long Beach Magazine (June 2010 Issue) Color3.562” x 4.562” (Includes Black Border)essential to the tour, because, according to Carl Tautenhahn, “youcan’t have a duck tour without a quacker!” Once everyone is set withtheir quackers, the tour begins with a drive around the lively Pikearea and a lesson of fun facts along the way, such as the history ofthe Cyclone roller coaster and Ferris wheel that distinguish the area.After touring the Pike area, the captain drives to the mouth of the L.A.River, where the tour begins its tour of the Harbor.One of the obvious wonders about the Rubber Duck Tour is how easilythe vehicle can go from street vehicle to floating ship in a matter ofseconds. According to Carl, this amphibious vehicle is only one of 43in existence globally, and is also one of the few that the Coast Guardconsiders “unsinkable” because it is foam-filled. “Over half the peopledon’t actually believe it floats,” he said.CMYCMMYCYThis fact is evident if one looks at the faces of guests as the vehicleapproaches the ramp to enter the water. Many guests look off thesides of the vehicle, curiously wondering how it will transform. Otherstake a different approach, preferring to look straight ahead and let thewonder happen with a slight anxiety. The brothers use their guests’curiosity to heighten the anticipation of this marvel, simultaneouslyteasing them and making a dramatic entrance as they enter the waters.CMYKOnce in the water, the tour takes a loop around the Long Beach Harbor,offering guests a unique perspective of the area and an interestinglesson of the city’s history. The tour ends with a drive down thebusy Pine Avenue strip, where guests can dance and quack to thecurious passers-by.“One of the highlights of the Rubber Duck Tour,” Gerald stated, “isthat you never see the same thing twice.”Although the hydra-terra vehicle is primarily used for their historicaltours, it is also a fully-licensed limousine and available for privatecharter for events such as weddings and birthday parties. The vehicleis not restricted to the Long Beach area, and can also be charteredfor service in Orange County. For now, though, the brothers statethat this city is where they want to keep their focus because of thearea’s diversity.“Long Beach couldn’t be a better location for this,” Gerald stated.“There is plenty to talk about and plenty to do.”Tickets for The Rubber Duck Tour should be purchased in advance,and are $26 for adults, $22 for military, seniors and students, $20 foryouth 5 to 17, and children under age 5 are free. nVisit rubberducktours.com for more information.longbeachmagazine.com 47


health & environs : ECOPacking SmartWRITTEN BY Dawn MoriSummer vacations are a time to relax and take the weight of the worldoff your shoulders. While a vacation will certainly lighten your mood,airline rules which charge passengers for checked bags over 50 lbs.mean you need to lighten your suitcase too.opposite of the expected weather — a long-sleeved shirt if you areheading somewhere warm or a tank top if you are going someplacecold. “There is always something that comes up that is totally different[to where you are],” she explains.Packing to beat the scale is as easy as remembering why you are goingon vacation in the first place. Whether your getaway takes you to sunnydays at the beach or to a cool overseas locale, you can still pack theperfect 50-lb. suitcase.“Think about where, what and how — where you are going, what youare going to be doing, and how are you going to be getting there,”said Ann Negendank, founder of Sensible Space Organizing Services.Planning is the first step, and Negendank recommends laying outeverything you want to take with you ahead of time. “Put them togetherand see the outfits, see what coordinates, and limit the colors,” shesaid. “If you take everything in browns and beiges or blacks and grays,then everything coordinates and is interchangeable. Limiting the colorsalso helps you control the shoes. They are the biggest volume item youare going to pack.”Negendank takes only four pairs of shoes — flip-flops in your carry-onfor the beach or hotel room, comfortable shoes you wear on the plane,and two pairs in your suitcase — dressy shoes and another pair ofcomfortable shoes.She also ingeniously suggests including a piece of clothing totallyAfter you have laid everything out, take a step back and see whatyou can take away. Do you have six pairs of pants and you will onlybe gone four days? When you think you are finished, Negendankadvises removing one more item. “If anything, people over-pack,”she emphasizes.Looking at the big packing picture not only applies to clothes but toelectronics that are now necessities, especially if you travel with teens.A simple consolidation reduces what you need to take. For example,playing DVDs on another family member’s laptop eliminates a DVDplayer, or movies can be downloaded to your phone so you don’t need tobring DVDs.If you are traveling with young children, pack complete outfits together,including underwear and hair accessories, and placing each in a meshor plastic bag. Parents should plan two outfits for each day, includingthose for dinner or the beach, then include one additional outfit, assomething extra or unexpected always comes up.As Mom’s purse and carry-on usually becomes a bottomless supplycupboard on long plane trips, Negendank offers practical advice forthe flight.48JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT : WISE BOOKSEarly Aviation InLong BeachWRITTEN BY Kevin HunterThis city has beenassociated with aviationand been regarded bymany as a pioneerpractically since thedays after Orville andWilbur Wright flew theirfirst flying machinein Kitty Hawk, NorthCarolina at the turn ofthe 20th century.Fresh off the heels ofher first book, Rosie theRiveter in Long Beach— about the thousandsof women who workedat the Douglas Aircraftplant in the city duringWorld War II — 5thDistrict CouncilwomanGerrie Schipske haspenned another winner,as she captures the veryearly years of aviationin this city in her latestbook, Early Aviation inLong Beach.The nine chapter 127-page book is a photo essay celebratingthe history of flight from cargo to military to commercial. EarlyAviation in Long Beach features some rare and great photosand stories dating back to the city’s early years throughpost-World War II andthe building of LongBeach MunicipalAirport — DaughertyField.Schipske, who has abachelor’s degree inhistory from UC Irvine,has always been abig history buff —especially local historyand aviation — andshe pours out a tonof that knowledge inher latest book. Thequality of the photos— many rare andnever seen before —are amazing.Long Beach playeda pivotal role duringWorld Wars I and II,as aircraft housedhere not onlyprovided military, butcommunication and transportation support as well. In ChapterFour, titled: “World War I Changes Aviation”, a photo on page50 from the January 1920 issue of U.S. Air Service Magazineshows how the army trained pilots right on the shore in LongBeach before the first inland field was developed by EarlStanley Daugherty.50JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


Schipske says in the caption that, “Daugherty recognized thepotential of aviation as a commercial venture for providing shortflights, giving exhibitions, carrying passengers and freight, andtaking aerial photographs for mapping and surveying. Fliers‘knew more landing fields’ was ‘the biggest problem in aviation.’”It was Daugherty who came to Long Beach from Des Moines,Iowa, and leased some land in 1919 and later convinced the CityCouncil to establish a municipal airport, which would be namedafter him. Long Beach was the first city in Southern California toestablish a municipal airport on 80 acres of water departmentland on Cherry Avenue and Spring Street, as shown in a photo onpage 73 in Chapter Six, titled “The Long Beach Municipal Airport”.later returned and publically lauded the city for its state-of-the-artfeatures, such as paved runways and night lighting. Schipske alsosays that newspapers reported that Lindbergh returned severaltimes and stayed at the Breakers Hotel on Ocean Boulevard.The stories of women in Long Beach aviation are featured inChapter Nine. One is of Gladys O’Donnell, a charter member ofthe first organization of women pilots called the Ninety-Nines. TheNinety-Nines signified the number of women who organized thegroup. There is also a photo of Daugherty’s widow Kay Daugherty.Her husband taught her how to fly, and she went on to serve as afirst lieutenant and executive of the Civil Air Patrol Squadron (alsopictured), and helped form a cadet training program in the city.But one of my favorite photos and story is of legendary aviatorCharles Lindbergh from 1928 on page 88. Schipske says that afterlights were installed, “Lindbergh made an emergency landingafter midnight with passenger Colonel Henry Breckenridge. ALong Beach resident heard a plane flying over the field andmade a telephone call to the airport, which resulted in a lightbeing turned on, allowing Lindbergh to see the field and land.”This is just a small sampling of the great photos, captions andstories in Early Aviation in Long Beach. I strongly encourageanyone who has an interest in the history of Long Beach and itsgreat aviation heritage to buy this book and read more. nEarly Aviation in Long BeachArcadia Publishing, 128 pp$21The caption goes on to say that Lindbergh was so grateful hed SANTANAARCHITECTURE3553 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 148Long Beach, CA 90807562.896.2837 studio562.427.1392 faxlongbeachmagazine.com 51


FACES & PLACES : DAY IN THE LIFE OF …day in the life of…Mario RodriguezWRITTEN BY Cheryl ScottPhotographed by Hartono TaiGetting Long Beach Airport Director MarioRodriguez out of the Crescent City and into theInternational City was no easy task, but LongBeach made him an offer he couldn’t refuse.“I was so impressed with City Manager PatWest and everyone I met during the interviewprocess, and I was so excited by the vitalityof the community that I wanted to be a part ofit,” Rodriguez said. “Long Beach is a boutiqueairport that is gearing up for the future. That’sexactly what I had been looking for.”Rodriguez has been at Long Beach Airportfor just over a year now, and is enthusiasticabout his future in the city and his plans forimproving travel.The son of Cuban immigrants, Rodriguezfell in love with aviation as a child standingby the runway of Miami International Airportwith his father. “I can’t remember when Iwasn’t fascinated with aviation — with flying,”Rodriguez said. “And I was fascinated by thecomplex nature of managing an airport. It isthe only thing I ever wanted to do.”Earning a degree in civil engineering from theUniversity of Miami in 1987, he quickly becameinvolved in the world of aviation, becomingan internationally known consultant to majorairports.His most recent post was Louis ArmstrongInternational Airport in New Orleans. “I don’tmiss it as much as I thought I would,” he said.“It’s a truly unique city, but so is Long Beach.52JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


There is a rich culture of diversity that is theearmark of a great city. And there’s sports,theater, art, community activities — all of itnearby, if not right in the city.”During the past year, Rodriguez has ensconcedhimself in the cultural life of his new home herein the city. He lives downtown in the AquaTowers building, which, he notes, really feelsmore like a small town. “I love the entire city,but I have a special fondness for downtown,”he said. “It has a cosmopolitan feel, and yet italso has a small-town ambience. Whenever Istep out the door and walk to one of the greatrestaurants nearby, it seems I run into someoneI know.”weekly to see each other. “We walk out of ouroffices and onto planes on weekends,” he said.“It works for us, even though the schedulemay not be everyone’s cup of tea. It satisfiesmy love of flying, and makes me realize overand over again what a joy and a miracle it is.You are actually sitting in a chair that is flyingthrough the sky. I never lose my sense ofwonder at that.”The high-flying couple has an 8-month oldbaby named Ava, who adds even moreexcitement to their life. Rodriguez also hastwo sons from his first marriage who sharethe couple’s joy. “They are as in love with heras we are,” he said.affordableefficientr e s ultsYet, he admits with a laugh, he really doesnot participate in most of these recreationalopportunities available right outside hisdoorstep. “My work is my hobby,” he said. “Idon’t even know how many hours a week Iwork, because when I’m not there, I’m on myBlackBerry. I just can’t stop thinking about thejob because I just love it.”Rodriguez is definitely busy these days.Beginning in March, the Airport beganconstruction of a new on-site parking garage.Groundbreaking for a new boarding loungeand concession area is expected to begin inearly 2011. “We have great plans,” he said.“This is a historic and beautiful building, andrenovating and expanding it — while preservingits character — is an exciting challenge.”Rodriguez points out the new expansion will notmake it a facility taking the overflow from LAX.“LAX is a completely different sort of airport,”he said. “It serves more international travelers,its challenge is to move as many people andas many flights through as possible. Ourclientele is different. We serve people whoare flying within the country and who expectmore personal service. That’s something we’reknown for and we don’t want to lose that.”He may be one of his best customers. Hiswife, Monica Newhouse, is assistant directorof Houston Airport Systems. The two commuteWhen land-bound in his workday milieu,Rodriguez tackles the job with characteristicenthusiasm. “We will serve our clients betterthan other airports in the area. They will havea comfortable and enjoyable experience thatwill be unique to Long Beach,” he said.Rodriguez describes himself as someone whoseeks creativity in a job well done, someonewho thinks “outside the box”. Currently heis overseeing the construction of a parkingstructure and the expansion of the terminal.He is involved in community relations andenvironmental issues at the airport. He is alsoa noted speaker throughout the country onbusiness recovery and disaster management.But he has an eye for the small things, too.“We are restoring a mosaic that was createdback in the ’30s,” Rodriguez said. “It had beencovered for a long time, but I think it’s time tospotlight it again. Not only is it beautiful, it’s areminder of the rich history of this airport andthe city of Long Beach.”Rodriguez is definitely a man whoseenthusiasm knows no bounds, and anafternoon of conversation with him is asexhilarating and gleeful as flight itself. He’s aman who never stops moving — but then, hehas a lot to do and a lot of places to go. nour brand has becomesynonymous with ourpassion, instinct & integrity.we design & createemotionally magnetizingspaces that sell.identityhome.comFind us on+longbeachmagazine.com 53


FACES & PLACES : COMMUNITY HEROEducation For AllWRITTEN BY Diane GershunyWhen doctors Martha and Faustino Bernadett created The MolinaFoundation in August 2004, its overall mission was to enhance learningand educational performance through the promotion of family and healthliteracy, math competency, and teacher effectiveness.Since its inception, the 501©3 corporation has effectively reachedunderserved children directly through schools and indirectly throughorganizations and community-based groups including clinics, AssistanceLeague, Junior League, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA/YWCA, and faithbasedorganizations.Martha Bernadett, a family physician, is the eldest daughter of the lateDr. C. David Molina, founder of Molina Healthcare, who came from afamily with a rich legacy in healthcare and education.“My parents were both teachers before dad went back and became aphysician. Everyone in my family — as well as my husband’s — valueseducation very highly,” said Bernadett. “Most of us have advanceddegrees from the local universities. Four out of five of us went to CSULB,and the fifth went to Sacramento State. We owe a debt of gratitude toour parents and teachers, and to the public education system.”In exploring how they could give back to the community, the Bernadett’slooked at what the needs of the community were. What they found wastheir greatest impact could be made through supporting teachers, whoin turn, inspire the children.Bernadett said their target audience is children, students, teachers,principals, administrators, parents and families who need helpovercoming the most common barriers of both poverty and Englishas a second language.“Children who are inspired and that can enjoy life-long learning will havericher, fuller lives,” she said. “In order to get to that point, they need tobe exposed to things like books and have confidence in their abilities.”Bernadett recalls when she was in 7th grade and how she had a reallygreat math teacher. “I’ve always taken an interest in math, especially forgirls who I think don’t have a lot of confidence in their abilities. That’s asmaller but growing part of the foundation,” she said.A larger part of the foundation, and the inspiration for its inception, isthe Book Buddies Literacy Program, born out of an idea by a MolinaHealthcare pediatrician.“There are studies that show the disparities in the number of booksin homes between children who live in poverty and those who live inaffluence, and it’s hundreds of times greater,” said Bernadett. “Werealized that this was something that we could do to make a difference.”54JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


As a result, Book Buddies has distributed over two million books throughschools, libraries, community-based organizations, hospitals and healthcare facilities that are received through donations from publishersand distributors, and from book drives at schools and communityorganizations.Bernadett also credits Kellie Cairns of Book Buddies for being veryinvolved in giving books to the schools and helping the program on agrassroots level.Under its umbrella, The Molina Foundation conducts four operatingprograms in addition to Book Buddies — Step Up to Math, ExperienceCounts, Teachers Assist Program, and Everybody Writes, which providereplicable and sustainable models that enhance access to educationand reinforcement of activities shown to improve student achievement.The Foundation is fortunate to receive generous funding from MolinaHealthcare, Inc., but additionally must also raise 30 percent of its moniesfrom outside, in-kind donations and other nonprofit groups.“All nonprofit organizations face the same challenges these days,including fundraising,” Bernadett noted. “With tight economic timesfacing the communities we serve, the demand for assistance is everincreasing,and funding sources must be shared among many non-profitorganizations in each community.”Bernadett said the reason they became a nonprofit in the first placewas that they felt they could do more, grow more and engage others— and that has turned out to be true.“We’ve designed our business model to be flexible, and have been ableto operate within our means and touch millions of people,” she said.Looking ahead, the Foundation’s future plans include forming anendowment for sustainability and continuing to address the dynamiceducation needs of the children, parents and educators in localcommunities.This year, The Molina Foundation will enhance and expand its teacherfocusedTeacher-Assist Program (TAP) and Step-Up-To-Math program.The goal is to design and demonstrate models that produce measurableimprovement in student performance.“Long-term, we believe that our most valuable contributions will bedemonstrating models that are replicable and sustainable,” saidBernadett. nVisit molinafoundation.org for more information.Photo courtesy of Lyca Faulkner, finekidsphotography.com.longbeachmagazine.com 55


“The Caribbean. All the different islands,all of them. I like the weather, and I like thecasualness of them all.”— Yvonne Strong, 59, Belmont Shoreresident, relocation consultant“It would have to be Maui. You have clean water,the weather, the slow pace, the relaxation. You’reon an island and all of a sudden, you’re relaxed.”— Berlin Zook, 38, Belmont Heights resident,middle school teacher“Grindelwald, Switzerland. That’s where Eigeris. It’s probably the prettiest place in the world.It’s hard to put into words. It’s a good place forhiking in the summer and skiing in the winter.”— Richard McKay, 68, Palos Verdes resident,retired pilotON THE STREETWhat Is Your Favorite Vacation Spot?Written by Peter SurowskIPhotographed by Chris Robertson“Paris. It was very big, lots of things to see anda really good system to get you around — reallygood for tourists.”— Jessica Rosales, 23, Belmont Shoreresident, technical support worker“It’s Flathead Lake, Montana. It’s the oppositeof here. It’s green, there are mountains, a clear,clean lake, blue water. It’s beautiful.”— Dave Ranson, 52, Belmont Shore resident,manufacturing company manager“I like San Juan, Puerto Rico, myself. Thesurfing’s really good. I like to go up into therainforest and hike up in the mountains there.”— Phil Pyke, 36, visiting Chicago resident,aerospace engineer56JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


SCENE &HEARDWRITTEN BY DANIEL RAMIREZEducation of the SeaHonoring the CauseThe California Conference for Equality andJustice (CCEJ) hosted its HumanitarianAwards Dinner on May 20 at the HyattRegency Hotel. The dinner honored AliceBraly, Dr. Ebenezer Bush, Supervisor Donand Julie Knabe, and Shirley Wild for theirdedication to ending discrimination.A Legend StaysOn May 21, The Aquarium of the Pacificdebuted its newest permanent expansion,The Molina Animal Care Center, which willallow visitors to see daily animal care shows,watch the Aquarium’s veterinarian conductmedical exams, and learn more aboutaquatic medicine. Along with the Center, therenovation of the BP Sea Otter Habitat wasunveiled. Inside the new habitat, visitors wereintroduced to Long Beach’s newest marinemember, Maggie, who was nursed back tohealth after being stranded as a baby.CSULB, C’est Chic!CSULB junior and senior students sent theirfashion designs down the runway at theannual Campus Couture Fashion show onMay 14. Attendees gathered at the CarpenterCenter to celebrate an evening of style andyoung fashion talent straight from the FashionDesign and Merchandising Department.Bring Out the ChopsticksDowntown is now home to a new sushi tenant,Octopus Japanese Restaurant, located at 200Pine Ave. With locations throughout SouthernCalifornia, Octopus offers a variety of uniquesushi creations and the latest innovations inJapanese cuisine.Pink PrideThousands of participants gathered for the2010 Long Beach Pride festival on May 15– 16. The Pink Party kicked the weekend offon May 14, with a night of dancing, drinks,and a drag show. The weekend festivalhighlighted food, outdoor entertainment,information booths, and the colorful paradealong Ocean Boulevard.On May 4, the City Council granted a$600,000 loan to Worthington Ford, allowingthe dealership to remain in the city. Thefive-year loan will be used to expand the35-year-old dealership located just south ofWorthington Ford.Women Who Make aDifferenceOn May 1, 450 guests including LongBeach’s first lady, Nancy Foster, attended theSoroptimist International of Long Beach’s 29thannual Awards Luncheon, held at The GrandEvent Center. The “Women Who Make ADifference” luncheon recognized eight womenfor their commitment to both women’s andchildren’s issues.Locals Celebrate Green!In an effort to “Turn the Tide” and focus onenvironmental issues, the East Village ArtsDistrict hosted the Green Long Beach Festivalon May 22. Locals were treated to music fromlocal bands, artist exhibitions, and a displayof organic food and gardens. nlongbeachmagazine.com 57


FACES & PLACES : PETS & PEOPLEJet Set PetsWRITTEN BY Lily SalterFor many pet owners, including their pets in their vacation plans is amust. Besides eliminating the expense and anxiety associated withboarding, you’re certain to add more adventure to the trip by bringingMiss Kitty along. So, now that summer’s here, gear up and get readyto roll with your pet pal in tow.Nowadays, most major airlines allow small dogs and cats to be carriedon and stored under the seat. However, be sure to consult with theairlines on specific requirements. If you plan on “checking” your petor sending it as cargo, be advised that heat restrictions apply duringthe summer months. For instance, American Airlines notes that petscannot be accepted when the current or forecasted temperature isabove 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29.4 degrees C) at any location on theitinerary. Check out pettravel.com for detailed information on travelingwith your pet by air, sea, or land. This site also lets you search for petfriendlyhotels worldwide.As an alternative to “people planes”, there is also Pet Airways, whichexclusively flies cats and dogs on its fleet of turbo-prop Beech 1900’sto many major cities in the U.S. “Pawsengers” ride in the cabin andare treated to first class service all the way. Pets are dropped off at thePet Lounge and given pre-flight potty breaks. Throughout the flight,attendants check on them every fifteen minutes, and owners can trackthem on the airline’s online system.If you and your pet aren’t into jet-setting, hiking and camping are yearroundoptions. Check out Best Hikes With Dogs: Southern Californiaby Allen Riedel, for travel tips and information on over 60 dog-friendlytrails. Road trips are another wonderful option to get away with yourfurry family.If you are planning a long car trip, consider travel accessories like theKool Kennel at koolkennel.com. There are items such as a portable airconditioner that attaches to your dog’s crate, or for those hounds ridingshotgun, a pet seat belt or safety harness is a good investment. Carharnesses come in a variety of styles and configurations. I recommendshopping locally for one to ensure that you get the right size — PetSmart, Centinela Pet Supplies and LaunderPet all carry a selection.Fashion and fit and are also a must when selecting a pet carrier. Pussy& Pooch on Second Street sells Pet Flys, a line of airline-approvedtrendy carriers that have made guest appearances on Ugly Betty andExtreme Makeover: Home Edition. Visit happypettravel.com for a numberof convertible carriers on the market that can be used as a car seat,backpack, or roller cart. Prior to your trip, it’s a good idea to test drivethe carrier. Let your pet become accustomed to it, throw in a favoritetoy, some treats, and line it with a towel or t-shirt that has your scenton it to help make your pet feel more at home.No matter if you vacation or staycation, ensure that your pet is outfittedwith a current identification tag and/or microchip, keep all vaccinationsup to date with records handy, and maintain a current photo in caseyour pet should ever get lost. Happy trails! nPhoto courtesy of Pet Flys, Inc.58JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


Sennikoff Architects25 years of award-winning,innovative design.Specializing in custom homesand residential remodels inLong Beach and the surroundingcoastal communities.SennikoffA R C H I T E C T SNew office now open on2nd Street in Naples.562.438.2380sennikoffarchitects.comSYDNEY HERWERCOLOR + DESIGNit starts withcolor ®a passion for color’s ability tocompletely transform spaces.sydneyherwer.comcolor + design consultingspace planninginterior + exteriorresidential + commercialORIANA SHEA & COMPANYReal Estate Services inLong Beach and thesurrounding areas.The Aquarium of the Pacific has opened not one,but TWO special exhibits in 2010. Checkout our new BP Sea Otter Exhibit modeledafter their natural habitat. Meet Maggie,our newest otter. And, discover the MolinaAnimal Care Center where you can seehow we care for our animals and neverbefore seen medical procedures. Now is theperfect time to learn about the ocean and exploreeverything new at the Aquarium of the Pacific.Seeanimalcare!aquariumofpacific.org 562 . 590 . 3100 100 AQUARIUM WAY, LONG BEACH, CA 90802Certified Distressed PropertyExpert (CDPE) – Facingforeclosure? We may have asolution for you.Keller Williams Coastal PropertiesDirect 562.961.1476 orOriana4u@gmail.comSoCalHomesAndLiving.comLicense #01217538LIVING CONCEPTSA DESIGN STUDIO3-D color virtual design.Know what your interiorwill look like beforeyou start construction.562.619.5284livingconceptsstudio.comLONG BEACH MARKETPLACE


ahciRMARKETS FLUCTUATE.serP eciV roineS - reganaM RELATIONSHIPS xelpmoC SHOULDN’T.setatsE slliH gnilloR - ecnarroT - hcaeB laeSj.drahcirInvestment and InsuranceProducts:• NOT FDIC Insured• NO Bank Guarantee• MAY Lose ValueRichard K. JacobsComplex Manager - Senior VPationships your retirement shouldn’t. party?Private Client Group, Seal BeachWells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC,is a registered broker-dealer and a separate -Torrance - Rolling Hills Estatessured u NO Bank non-bank Guarantee affiliate of u Wells MAY Fargo Lose & Company. Value 562.277.6127© 2009 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. All rightsreserved. 0409-1262 [81456-v1] A1015and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. oC&ograF m10/09.ynap slleWfo etailfifa knab-nonetarapes richard.jacobs@wfadvisors.comadna relaed-rekorbderetsiger a si ,CPIS eM,CL m reb ,srosivdAograF slleW39-v1]A1016sthgir llA 90/01 .CLL 5101A ,srosivdA ]1v-65418[ 2621-9040ograF slleW 902©H&H NurseryEstablished in 1976.We offer over 5 acres of plantsfor all your gardening needs.GATEWAY BUSINESS BANKStop by and receive a free,reusable green bag to use forgroceries, school books or anyneed that arises.4146 Woodruff Ave.Lakewood, CA 90713562.627.9800gbbanker.com*Groceries pictured not included. Promotionaloffer effective 1/1/10 and is subject to changewithout notice. Limit 1 free bag per person.JEANNETTE ARCHITECTSInnovative, environmentallysensitive, and family friendly.6220 Lakewood Blvd.Lakewood, CA 90712562.804.2513hhnursery.com562.987.9139jeannettearchitects.comHARDING CONSTRUCTION& Sustainable Solutions· Green Remodeling· Energy Auditing & Retrofitting· Home Restoration· Green Home CertificationLONG BEACH MAGAZINE12 Issues - $1824 Issues - $3036 Issues - $36LONG BEACH MARKETPLACE562.333.6392hardingconstruction.bizLic.# 895042L&M Design and CompanyWe provide personal designthrough your inspiration andour creativity.Design ConsultantsLiz Cardona 562.458.7376Mary Jo Mais 562.761.9795lnmdesignco@aol.comSubscribe by phone or online.562.366.2617 x200longbeachmagazine.comGARNICA INTERIORSThe trusted choice ininterior design.We translate your visioninto beautiful, innovative &functional spaces.562.242.9122garnicainteriors.comfacebook.com/GarnicaInteriorsFan


IDENTITY HOMEStaging | DesignWe design & create emotionallymagnetizing spaces that sell.RYAN PROUTYSimplified Video Productionfor your business or organization.Specializing in productionspromoting products, brandsand ideas.Based in Long Beach.Find us on Facebook & Twitter.identityhome.com323.203.0800ryanprouty.comLONG BEACH CENTERFOR PSYCHOTHERAPYHealing the pastLiving the present“LBCFP is where healing the pastand living the present begins.We are dedicated therapists,committed to the well being ofevery person, collectively movingforward so that lives may be livedto the fullest.”562.987.3535Ethel Daniels MFC #46613JIM & CHRIS ITALIANOColdwell Banker Coastal AllianceREAL ESTATEDynamic Spouse Team.Over 45 combined years experience.Broker & Co-OwnerLargest and #1 office in Long Beach.Web Site: italianohomes.com562.961.1234DRE License #00756275 #00964750THE YELLOW LOFT...is a sunny graphic designstudio in Long Beach. We area modest studio with a healthyappetite for creative.Our Clients Include:Warner Bros. ConsumerProducts, Sephora, FX Network,Long Beach Magazine,and Aardvark Tactical.The Yellow Loft562.433.9414THE PAWMENADENew Year - New FoodBring in your old food, get15% off new food.133 The Promenade N. #106562.787.0253thepawmenade.comPersonal TrainersOn The Go· 1 WEEK FREE!· Lose weight, tone up, andgain muscle!· We come to you!· Workout in the privacy ofyour home or office!· We bring all the equipment!Tanya Neustice562.650.1444personaltrainersonthego.comTING-WEY YEN, DDS,MS, FACPIt’s not just a dental office it’s anart gallery, where every smile isa work of art.Please visit us atdrdreamsmile.comto learn about the specialityof prosthodontics.562.423.7878LONG BEACH MARKETPLACE


FACES & PLACES : SOCIETYIMAGINING A CUREOn Saturday, April 24, the Long Beach Cancer League (LBCL) presented their 35th annualGala “Imagine the Celebrations, Imagine a Cure” at the Daugherty Sky Harbor Hangar. Theevent featured unique items sold through silent and live auctions, along with a gourmetdinner and live entertainment. LBCL, a fundraising auxiliary of the American Cancer Society,has raised over $10 million to help fight cancer. n01 02030401. Elaine Davis, Jay Davis, Lynne Davis and Howard Davis02. Ron Litzinger, Lynne Pillsbury and John Fielder03. Donita Van Horik and John Fielder04. Sheryl Stewart, Sophia Riley and Loren Miner05. Guests walk the red carpet entrancePhotos courtesy of Doug Piburn0562JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


CRUISING THE STREETSRecreational and competitive cycling took over Fourth Street and Downtown for thethree-day 2nd annual Long Beach Bicycle Festival, May 7 – 9. The event consistedof everything bicycle-related to help the city promote an innovative plan to makethe city “the most cycling-friendly urban city in the United States”. n010203 0401. Bernard Serrano, Cyclone Coaster founder02. We Love Long Beach’s Hearty Heart with Victoria Wells03. Patricia Oropeza, Lucy Rodriguez and Moriah Mowery04. Tom, Trudy & Taylor Eichen05. Bear Face Band entertaining the crowd05Photographed by Hartono Tailongbeachmagazine.com 63


calendarJUNE 2010JUNE 20Happy Father’s Day!JUNE 6Chorale Creature FeatureSPECIALEVENTSFrom the staff atLong Beach Magazine.The Long Beach Choralewill set your tail to waggingas they celebrate their love ofanimals in song. 3 p.m.Rancho Los Alamitos562.431.3541rancholosalamitos.comfundraisersJUNE 3 – 5Coin, Stamp &Collectible ExpoJUNE 26 – 27Long Beach BayouFestivalRare coins, paper money,stamps, postcards,historic documentsand other collectibles.Convention Center562.436.3636longbeachexpo.com24th annual festival offersauthentic Louisiana music,Creole food, arts and crafts,and much more.Rainbow Lagoon562.424.0013longbeachfestival.comJUNE 15Juneteenth ConcertJUNE 3Long Beach BlastSalif Keita, “The GoldenVoice of Africa” withThe MusicUNTOLD Chorale.7:30 p.m.Annual breakfast to benefitafter school learning forat-risk children.7:30 – 8:30 a.m.ARTSTerrace Theater562.436.3661ticketmaster.comMoLAA562.437.7766 x200lbblast.orgJUNE 19 – 20Pirate InvasionA weekend of music, food,sword fights, costume contest,roving minstrels and more.10 a.m. – 10 p.m.Rainbow Lagoon562.477.6820alfredosbeachclub.comJUNE 25Summer Concerts SeriesVoxinglero presents anew blend of Latinrhythms. Garden opensat 5 p.m. for picnicking.Concert starts at 6 p.m.Rancho Los Cerritos562.570.1755rancholoscerritos.orgJUNE 4CHLB FoundationCommunity Classic28th annual golf tournament,dinner and auction.8 a.m. registration.Recreation Park562.494.0580chlb.org64JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


JUNE 23Long Beach PoliceAwards Ceremony42nd annual ceremonyhonoring police employeesand community membersfor acts of heroism anddedication.Carpenter Center562.570.5830lbpolicefoundation.orgJUNE 12Beach CleanupSponsored by Long BeachWater Department. Bringa hat, shoes and sunscreen.We’ll provide the rest.9 a.m. – 12 Noon.Bluff Park562.570.2309lbwater.orgJUNE 15High Blood PressureLectureLearn about the effectsof high blood pressureand what you can doabout it. 6 p.m.Long Beach Memorial562.933.3044memorialcare.orgJUNE 5AIDS Walk Long BeachJUNE 24Out At The Movies22nd annual walk/runbenefiting South L.A.County AIDS organizations.The Pike562.987.5200aidswalklb.orgMonthly film screeninggeared toward the GLBTcommunity benefits thosetouched by HIV/AIDS andbreast cancer. 9 p.m. $10.Art Theatre2025 E. Fourth St.562.438.5435JUNE 12Ocean ConservationAwards GalaA special evening of oldHollywood glamour, finedining, and a “night atthe movies”. 6:30 p.m.Aquarium of the Pacific562.951.1606aquariumofpacific.orgJUNE 27Grape ExpectationsLong Beach Public LibraryFoundation hosts its7th annual fundraiser.Dinner, silent auctionand entertainment.MoLAA562.628.2441lbplfoundation.orgJUNE 13Champions Run For Life25th annual Torch Runbenefits the JonathanJaques Children’s CancerCenter. 10 a.m. – NoonRainbow Harbor Esplanade562.933.8600millerchildrenshospitallb.orgONGOINGWeekly Classes atWillow Wellness CenterDancing Your Way toBetter Health -Thursdays, 2 – 3 p.m.Caregiver Support Group -Fridays, 10 a.m.Memorial HealthCare, IPA562.506.0409To list August events,submit information byJune 15 to:events@longbeachmagazine.comfamily/livingLong Beach Magazine doesnot guarantee publication ofsubmitted events.longbeachmagazine.com 65


FACES & PLACES : LAST VIEWVICKI LAWRENCE WITH LUCAS AND TASHAPHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF FARSAI66JUNE 2010 TRAVEL & LEISURE


RUNNING WITH SUCCESSMichael Allmon, CPA, of Michael B. Allmon & Associates, has over 30 years of experience in tax planning andpreparation, estate planning, and financial planning for successful businesses and individuals.Every morning, Mike starts his day with a jog, joined by fellow members of The Wall-Nuts running group. Amongthese members is Bob Franko, President of BEACH BUSINESS BANK.One morning back in 2004, Bob told Mike of his intention to start a new, publicly-held bank geared toward firmsand small businesses just like Michael B. Allmon & Associates and its clientele. When BEACH BUSINESS BANKopened its doors that June, Mike became a founding client. “I’ve worked with many bankers throughout mycareer and Bob is the most creative and resourceful. Any successful business would be lucky to have Bob andBEACH BUSINESS BANK on their team.”Bob FrankoPresident, Beach Business BankMichael AllmonCPA, Michael B. Allmon & Associates180 E. OCEAN BLVDSUITE 1001230 ROSECRANS AVESUITE 100650 TOWN CENTER DRIVESUITE 150LONG BEACHMANHATTAN BEACH COSTA MESACA 90802 CA 90266CA 92626www.beachbusinessbank.com | 866.862.3878longbeachmagazine.com 67


TOKIDOKI COSMETIC PACKAGING DESIGNThe Yellow Loft, Sephora, TokiDoki creative directionTrina Luong, Arian Franz, Pamela Wang, designersThe Yellow Loft, (Long Beach, CA) design firmSEPHORA, clientFOR DESIGN INQUIRIES,Please contact CHRIS STAIANO at:chris@theyellowloft.com OR562 433 9414 x2304821 E. 2ND St. Long Beach CA 90803World reknown artist, illustrator and creator of TOKIDOKI,Simone Legno, partnered with Sephora to create a uniqueand imaginative collection of quality cosmetics. The April2010 launch began with 72 SKUs. The colorful collectionfeatures: eyeshadow palettes, mascara, lip-gloss, eyeliner,cosmetic bags, bronzers, nail files and more.CHECK OUT MORE PRODUCTS at SEPHORA.COM

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