Leisure

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 & Leisure 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