Palisades News: May 26 - June 30, 2023

Maryam Zar named Women of the Year by State Senator

Zar is a lawyer and decade-long resident of the Palisades

Maryam Zar, president of the Pacific Palisades Community Council, was named Women of the Year by State Senator Ben Allen earlier this year.

Zar, a lawyer and decade-long resident of the Palisades alongside her husband and three children, holds a number of positions across several civic projects. She is the chair of the Westside Regional Alliance of Councils Land Use and Planning Committee, founding chair of the Palisades Homelessness Task Force, secretary of the local Park Advisory Board, and chair of the board of the Palisades YMCA.

“It’s an instinct really, without any sense of boundary.” explains Zar, when asked about her passion for community. Zar first served as Council Chair from 2016 to 2018, and is now serving a second presidency in the community. “People wanted change – which is strange to

say that I would be changed, but maybe people wanted a different sort of modus operandi to get things done.”

Zar views the Palisades as a “very tightknit, little community with a sense of neighborliness. It’s important that during these exchanges we don’t lose that.” Alongside other members of the council, Zar hosted a Public Safety meeting last month, which she believes is important to address local concerns. “People were wondering, is my community safe? People feel secure from getting their questions answered.”

Allen, a longtime friend of Zar’s, also lauded her involvement in the Women Life Freedom Movement, an Iranian women’s rights campaign born from the Mahsa Amini protests which began last year. “PersianAmerican women have led the fight to make sure their struggle is not ignored – Maryam has been a leader in this effort,” said Allen in a statement. “Her leadership builds upon years of community service in the Palisades and broader LA region.”

The commemoration ceremony “actually happened on Nawruz, so we decided to milk it for all it’s worth,” says Zar,with a traditional Haft-sin table, a cultural altar with different

symbolic objects to celebrate the Persian New Year, being set up at the venue while Zar was awarded.

Senator Allen’s constituency comprises one of the most densely populated Persian communities in the state. “California does have the most concentration of Persians outside Iran,” explains Zar. Zar was among those who lobbied for the successful California Senate Concurrent Resolution 6, which expressed legislative support for the Iranian protests and encouraged the United States government’s response to the Iranian government’s repression.

“Our goal is to get it in all fifty states, hopefully it starts with New York and goes from there.” proclaims Zar, who warns about the waning discussions regarding the protests.

“The news of the protests has been dwindling down, but we have to keep speaking about it and talking about it because women are still being gassed, and still taking their scarves off in public and protesting against the government.”

Despite public encouragement, Zar has expressed little desire to run for public office.

“I might run for state assembly. It’s more national and generational but besides that,

not really.” Zar, who left Iran in 1979, has stated that it is a “privilege and luxury to help out your community, to solve problems, and getting people together to solve a problem. And reminding people to be kind.”

Local Couple Launch Story Creation App

The Creation Platform Let’s Kids Make Adventures.

Palisades Entrepreneurs Dr. Renee Dua and Nick Desai have launched their third collaborative app, SmartDreams, on April 4th. The app uses AI to generate custom bedtime stories for children, based on their age, reading level, and storytelling preferences.

Desai, who was raised in Orange County, has worked in the entrepreneurial space for thirty years, but began working with his wife, Dr. Dua, in 2014. “Renee and I started a company together in the healthcare space, we’ve been entrepreneurs together ever since then” says Desai. Heal, “an Uber-like app”, provides doctor house calls. “We started, literally, with me driving her around.” The company went on to raise $200 million in funding and operated

across ten states before being sold to Humana in 2021.

“I’m a kidney doctor, I’ve been in practice for 20 years – and I still do practice, but now I’m home much more with the kids.” remarks Dua. Their three children, aged four to nine, played an active part in the app’s development and design. “If we don’t know what we’re doing, we can hear all about it.”

“The app came out of, literally – one day I was working out of the master bedroom,” explains Desai.” Our daughter comes up to me, and goes “Daddy, I want you to tell me a story. I say get the book, and she says, ‘No, I want you to make a story about a bear eating pizza in a forest.’ And right then, inspiration struck.”

After signing up, parents and children can use SmartDreams by selecting cartoon images of animals, settings, and foods, which are used to generate their unique, specific story each time. “You don’t cut down trees, you don’t spend money, but you get an infinite number of stories.”

The app took a month to develop using Chat GPT, an artificial intelligence chatbot. Precautions were taken to ensure safe, appropriate content and consumer privacy. The stories are customized “based on the age of the kid, the story’s length, and the words that are used.” Desai explains. “Each story reflects a life lesson, you know, being a good friend, sharing, teamwork, the environment, each of these things are incorporated very subtly into the story.” Fun facts also appear about the animals and setting selected, as a further educational element.

The couple’s children are described as enthusiastic readers of the app. “What’s really cute is [their daughter] asks for it now. She understands how the story comes alive. She’s able to pick what she wants to see and learn.” Dua says. Parents can also use the app to select vocabulary words, allowing their children to learn in an imaginative environment. “It’s them learning and me having less work to do to make sure they’re learning […] It’s more for kids to just see their creativity come to life.”

The app is free to use, with additional paid features that require licensing – such as readalouds from favorite Disney characters – as an upcoming update. Other future developments include custom avatars, where children can upload pictures of themselves to be inserted into the story’s visuals, and custom illustrations. SmartDreams currently works for English and Spanish speakers, and aims to operate in multiple languages.

Palisidian Joe Halper Retires From Board of Recreation and Park Commissioners

Halper Served On The Board For Almost Five Years.

Joe Halper, a man whose more than threedecade long career as an administrator, educator and author in the field of recreation and parks administration, retired from the Board of Commissioners for L.A. Recreation and Park.

Halper received international recognition for civic merit from Sweden as a Knight of the Royal Order of the North Star. He was also recognized by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors for saving millions of dollars and preserving service levels after the passage of Proposition 13 tax loss. He was designated as the Los Angeles County representative by the Board of Supervisors to the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

He also served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and received recognition from Veterans organizations, including the American Legion and Jewish War Veterans, for his community service.

Halper was active in several professional organizations, serving as the President of the

Long Island Park and Recreation Association, Member of the Executive Board of the New York State Park and Recreation Society, and recognized by the New York Metropolitan Recreation and Park Society as Man of the Year. He was also appointed as a Consultant to the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, serving through the administration of five Presidents.

In his professional career, Halper served as an adjunct faculty member at both Columbia and New York Universities, instructing at both the undergraduate and graduate levels in park and recreation administration.

He co-authored two textbooks and several articles published in professional journals in this field. Halper has also served at the local, State, and Federal levels, developing the urban park and recreation service plan adopted for New York State while serving as Assistant Commissioner of the New York State Recreation and Parks, and appointed by Secretary of Interior as a Special Assistant to the National Park Service Director.

WESTSIDE GETAWAY GUIDE 2023

Champagne Yacht: A One-of-a Kind Charter Experience

This summer, elevate a special occasion by taking it on the water — yacht style.

Charter off the San Diego harbor and have a one-of-a-kind birthday, corporate event, celebration of life/burial, engagement, family reunion or other special occasion on Champagne, a private luxury motor yacht certified, licensed and insured for up to 49 passengers.

Built in Florida in 1983, the Bertram motor yacht owner David Levkowitz completely remodeled Champagne to add a full gourmet kitchen, household-sized appliances, two bars, two guest bathrooms and professional sound system.

“Everything inside was replaced so that our yacht guests can have the time of their lives. We cater to special occasions, milestones and events you want to remember, lifetime experiences,” Levkowitz said. “We’ve been officially licensed for charter since 2019.”

Under the amazing San Diego skyline, a private setting and customizable options, Champagne Yacht is ready to help you create a one-of-a-kind lifetime experience with your friends or family or workplace.

“Private rentals on Champagne are so fun and full of life, no one ever regrets investing in a private celebration, you are creating lasting memories. Some of my favorite moments are when guests are amazed at the skyline or sunsets that we can see from the yacht,” said Levkowitz. “Champagne helps elevate the

celebration even more. Guaranteed the best time for you and your guests.”

The yacht departs and returns from Point Loma Sport Fishing in San Diego. For additional fees, groups may board at the Marriott/Hyatt marina in downtown San Diego. Charters are scheduled in four-hour increments from 12-4 p.m. or 5-9 p.m. On select weekends, 10 p.m. night cruises are available.

“We’re the only private yacht in San Diego that has a commercial license, and we love hosting groups of all sizes up to forty for any occasion,” Levkowitz said.

Champagne cruises downtown, the Super Yacht dock, past the USS Midway, under the famous Coronado bridge, by the Hotel Del then anchors near the Coronado Golf Course in the scenic Glorietta Bay so guests can swim, play on the floaties, drink, dance and lounge in the boat.

A licensed captain, bartender and deckhand is included on the boat to ensure a safe voyage and excellent service. Champagne Yacht has a wide range of catering options for events, but guests are welcome to bring their own food and beverage items, Levkowitz said.

“Anytime you book a private yacht, especially Champagne, you’re planning to have the time of your life. It’s a special, unique way of celebrating those milestones.” said Levkowitz.

Charters start as low as $3,500 for a threehour cruise Monday through Thursday, or $4,500 for a four-hour cruise Friday through Sunday, excluding holidays, peak summer

weekends and special events.

Arrangements for your special occasion such as a DJ, saxophonist, catering, private chefs, specialty cakes, balloon decorations, party buses or limousine transportation, photographers and videographers are available for booking, as well.

“We’ve had guests propose to their significant other surrounding loved ones and friends on Champagne and we’ve had some celebrate 75th and 90th birthdays, the possibilities are limitless. We’re here to help make your celebration that much more special,” said Levkowitz. “A party on

Champagne is one you’ll never forget.”

Champagne hosts corporate events, team building activities, birthdays, wedding celebrations, anniversary parties, family reunions, graduation parties, proposals and celebration of life/burials at sea and more upon request.

Champagne Yacht reservations for the summer season are filling quickly. More information and vibrant photos from Champagne parties can be seen here. Reservations can be made here.

Online Program Invites Spanish Learners to Dive Into Culture

Learning a new language can be difficult, but with the right tools, it can be a complete learning adventure.

ChidoLingo Language School combines private online lessons with cultural experiences, founded by Uriel Benitez of Mexico City and Ryan Brown of Los Angeles, who believe the best language learning techniques are one-onone lessons with a native teacher, coupled with immersion excursion abroad.

With ChidoLingo’s private online tutoring and personalized lessons, the programs give you individual attention and exposure to a variety of accents and styles of conversation.

“We both know the struggles of learning a new language, so we get how hard it can be. We’ve built ChidoLingo from the ground up with a focus on understanding and relating to students’ needs,” said Brown. “You can learn at your own speed and get instant feedback, which helps you understand faster.”

Most students start with private online tutoring. ChidoLingo offers a free 30-minute Spanish trial class in which you will meet the teachers ahead of your private lessons — experienced, qualified native-level speakers who love to teach.

Lessons focus on language competencies

including speaking, conversational skills, grammar, vocabulary, reading and writing. With these skills, Spanish learners are able to speak confidently in any situation, understand native speakers from across the globe and feel comfortable building simple to complex sentence structures.

As you progress, you’ll delve into more advanced topics like ser, personal pronouns, nouns, adjectives, prepositions, verbs and conjugations. Beginner, intermediate and advanced courses are available.

For those who like a challenge, ChidoLingo has a challenge course that exposes students to a variety of different accents and styles of conversations within a three-month time period, packed with 36 different lessons and three different teachers. As a bonus, if you complete your classes in under three months, ChidoLingo offers a 30% refund.

Through ChidoLingo, students can sign up for an Immersion Excursion — a trip to Mexico City where you put your new language skills to the test in a real-life environment. Each day is packed with learning opportunities, personalized Spanish lessons and activities and tours designed to show you the Mexican culture.

“By immersing yourself in the vibrant Mexican culture, you’ll not only gain a deeper

A Favorite Among Frequent Travelers: H. Savinar Luggage Co

For all your travel and exploration needs, H. Savinar Luggage Co. is a dealer you can trust.

Serving Los Angeles with two brick and mortar locations, H. Savinar has been helping generations of family find brand name, quality luggage since its inception in 1916 — over 100 years ago — and is one of the oldest luggage stores in the United States.

Whether you are looking for luggage with multi-terrain maneuverability or security and durability for peace of mind while traveling, your next destination should be an H. Savinar Luggage Co. in either Culver City, which opened in February of this year, or Canoga Park.

“Our warehouse is filled with one of the largest selections of nationally advertised brands of luggage, briefcases, laptop cases and travel accessories at the guaranteed lowest prices,” said Joey Diamond, owner of H. Savinar.

Diamond has had a 39-year relationship with the company, starting out as a monogrammer, then moving into sales, and eventual ownership of the company in 2016, after the 2010 passing

of Lewis Savinar, son of former owners Hyman and Harold.

“I quickly jumped into Lewis’s shoes to keep the business running. This was especially difficult because of how close we were. Lewis treated me like a son, and he was widely respected in the industry. Not easy to fill those shoes,” Diamond said.

H. Savinar carries most major brands such as Briggs & Riley, Victorinox, Bric’s, Samsonite, Delsey,Travel Pro, Pacsafe, High Sierra, McKlein, Roncato and Swiss Army, and is an authorized dealer for every line.

“We have the lowest prices in the industry. Whatever your travel needs are, we have the right bag at the right price and we’re here to service it if anything goes wrong,” Diamond said.

Throughout H. Savinar’s 106 years of business, the company has forged excellent relations with a number of manufacturers and customers, giving you the best options for luggage that fit your need.

“We treat customers like family here. This is one of those stores that right when you walk in, you know you’re going to have a good experience. We don’t just try to sell you a piece

understanding of Spanish, but also experience an incredible opportunity of a lifetime,” Brown said. We don’t just teach you the language, we open the door to the amazing and vibrant Mexican culture.”

Immersion Excursion is a safe and fun experience that includes a private teacher to guide you as you learn about the culture while practicing Spanish. You’ll visit places like Frida Kahlo Museum, Xochimilco, Chapultepec Castle and more.

ChidoLingo’s affordable and accessible classes gives students the freedom to customize their study plan, schedule classes at their convenience and access 24/7 virtual tutoring.

“We believe that learning Spanish is the key

to appreciating our wonderful mouthwatering food, incredible music, diverse traditions and super friendly people,” said Brown. “We’re excited to be your partners on this incredible Spanish-learning adventure. Let’s go amigo!”

Class packages for adults and children start at $17 per hour. Each class lasts 60 minutes and most students progress through ChidoLingo’s levels at around 40 hours.

ChidoLingo is designed to push your learning boundaries, but many former ChidoLingo students have testified that the effort in learning Spanish is it worth it for language skills.

You can become a ChidoLingo student — learning Spanish or English in a fast and effective way — by registering online.

of luggage. We find out your traveling habits and needs to find you the right bag. Once we find it, we’ll make sure you know all the features,” said Diamond.

Before a piece of luggage leaves H. Savinar’s warehouse, each item is inspected for quality. The company is also an authorized repair center for many manufacturers.

“We’ve seen a lot of changes in the 106 years we’ve been in business, but one thing that hasn’t changed is our dedication to our loyal customers,” Diamond said.

MONGRAMMING AND CORPORATE SALES

In addition to a numerous selection of luggage, H. Savinar offers personalized monogramming and embroidery services — initials, names or company logos. For luggage, this is essential in differentiating your personal belongings from another while traveling.

For companies looking to treat their employees, H. Savinar offers company logo monogramming or embroidery and individual labeling and shipping direct to your customers.

H. Savinar Luggage can be found in Culver City at 10730 Washington Boulevard (323-9382501), open Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Canoga Park at 6931 Topanga Cyn Boulevard (818-703-1313), open Monday through Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

More information can be found on savinarluggage.com.

Explore Pacific Ocean Views and Recreation at Ventura Harbor Village

Getaway to scenic Ventura Harbor Village

and enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Coast nestled in Ventura, just an hour up the coast from Malibu and Los Angeles and right off Highway 101/1.

Come seek your “seaside state of mind” this summer at Ventura Harbor Village to unwind and relax on the water, land, or mix of both for the weekend.

“We are thrilled to welcome in guests this summer to enjoy our sandy beaches just steps from the vibrant waterfront attraction of Ventura Harbor Village and the wonderful Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center,” said Santa Monica native Jennifer Talt Lundin, the marketing manager at Ventura Harbor and Ventura Harbor Village.

Whether with family, friends, or a galcation, so much to choose from between casual and sit-down waterfront dining options at 15 restaurants to savor American, Cuban, French, Greek, and Mexican cuisines. Ventura Harbor Village is known best for fresh seafood markets and seafood dishes with a variety of choices from mouth-watering Fish N’ Chips, fish tacos, handcrafted clam chowders, oysters, ceviche, salmon salads, and much more!

Plus, fun boardwalk style sweet treats await like FishZookie ice cream cones, the famous Dole Whips, personalized chocolate bars, cupcakery, and colorful cocktails by the sea. Check out Wild Local Seafood’s brick & mortar store at Ventura Harbor Village to take home fresh sustainable catch! You can find them weekly at several of the local Farmers Markets.

This coastal seaside playground gives guests the opportunity to shop one-of-kind coastal boutiques, artisan spaces, galleries, and specialty stores. Ventura Harbor Village is the perfect getaway for waterfront relaxation.

WHAT TO DO – Worth the Drive

Deep Sea Wine Tasting: This new wine room offers wine lovers to toast the coast with unique blends of reds and whites, each produced in small bath production. Daily tastings offer a selection of both Conway and Deep Sea wines from Santa Barbara and compliment a variety of palates. Overlooking the boats, Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room also hosts weekly special activities.

On The Alley: “OTA” is the more casual sister-venue to popular Brophy Bros. Restaurant & Clam Bar in Ventura Harbor Village, boasting wonderful harbor view seating, outdoor patios, surf videos and photography artwork that showcases the local landscape. Stop by OTA for a quick, casualfriendly breakfast line up including smoothies, breakfast burritos, bowls and French toast sticks. Lunch and dinner menus are available for casual favorites like Fried Avocado Taco, burgers, and seafood dishes and make sure to try Brophy’s award-winning Bloody Mary.

Ventura Boat Rentals: It’s summer, so why not spend time on the water! Rent kayaks, electric boats, stand up paddle boards, or a mix of character pedal boats that include ducks, swans, flamingos, and dragons in a selection of colors of the rainbow at Ventura Harbor Village.

Andria’s Seafood Restaurant & Market: Visitors come from miles away weekly for Andria’s Seafood Restaurant & Market’s famous Fish N’ Chips, seafood dishes, stacked onion rings, warm clam chowder in sourdough bowl, and so much more! Such generous portions and so delicious!

Island Packers: Cruise all five of the islands that make up the Channel Islands National Park and National Marine Sanctuary. From half and full day trips, camping, kayaking, and hiking, Island Packers suits all ages and interests. This summer, one-hour evening harbor cruises are available on select Saturdays in June, July, and August, thru October, and catch a glimpse

of whales in the channel with summer whale watching excursions.

Ventura Harbor Village has an abundance of activities to choose from including The Ultimate Escape Room, Frenchies Modern Nail Care, beach volleyball courts, scuba dive lessons and trips via Ventura Dive and Sport, live music from Rock N’ Roll to Bluegrass, nighttime entertainment like comedy or dancing. Pro-tip : Weekdays in the summer are great too for ease, peace, and relaxation!

UPCOMING SUMMERTIME FUN

Weekends in July & August feature the summer tunes with a live DJ from Noon to 3 p.m. every Saturday on the Promenade Stage. On Sundays, be whisked away on a tropical

Family-Friendly Business Provides Sport Fishing in

The Company Offers Whale Watching, Open Party Fishing Trips and More.

Serving the coastal edge of Los Angeles since 1965, Marina Del Rey Sportfishing Inc. provides all walks of life from around the world the experience of sport fishing in the

Marina Del Rey

Pacific Ocean.

The company offers whale watching, bait dock and dock fishing, open party fishing trips, and more. Most trips happen within a 20-mile radius of Marina Del Rey. The types of fish caught depend on the season, such as Halibut or Sea Bass in the Spring and Red Snapper, Grouper or Lingcod in the Winter.

“Fishing is great in this area and really consistent. People can really enjoy a nice experience on any one of our boats, whether it’s a half day or three-quarter day public trips, our rock cod red snapper trip, or one

of our many private charters that we run,” said Rick Oefinger, president of Marina Del Rey Sportfishing. “We’re the legitimate sport fishing company of Marina Del Rey.”

Private business will often book with the company for fishing events either for celebrations or business trips. Private birthday parties often take place with Marina Del Rey Sportfishing as well, with smaller fish being caught for those at younger ages.

The company has been under the management of Captain Oefinger since 1990. Working on boats and running sportfishing is

vacay with the smooth sounds of steel drums on the water in July & August.

Relax, sit back, and watch an outdoor movie under the summertime sky on the last Saturday of the month - June, July and August -at sunset. “Jaws,” “Goonies” and “Moana” are all in the line up! Grab dinner here seaside and join in the pre-movie fun! (Bring chairs and blankets) Seek the good vibes this summer with a day trip up the coast to Ventura Harbor Village. Complimentary parking and admission. Unwind, connect & SEA.

For visitor info & updates visit www. VenturaHarborVillage.com or follow @ VenturaHarbor. Ventura Harbor Village is located at 1583 Spinnaker Drive in Ventura.

something Rick says he’s done his whole life since the age of 14. Rick distinguishes Marina Del Rey Sportfishing from other similar businesses by being safe, affordable and family-friendly.

Paddle Pub Offers New Sightseeing Experience in Marina Del Rey

“Experience the Marina Like Never Before: Paddle Pub Introduces Pedal-Powered Boat Tours”

Paddle Pub is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated grand opening of Paddle Pub Marina Del Rey, set to take place in June 2023. As the largest man-made harbor in the United States, Marina Del Rey provides the perfect backdrop for this exciting new venture.

Paddle Pub Marina Del Rey offers 26-passenger pedal-powered boat tours that allow guests to bring their own beverages and snacks while immersing themselves in the beauty and sights the area has to offer. Lasting approximately two hours, these tours provide ample opportunities for sightseeing, observing sea life, admiring magnificent vessels, and even dancing, among other experiences.

One of the key features of Paddle Pub Marina Del Rey is the presence of a Licensed Captain and an event host aboard the Duchess Pub. The Captain ensures the vessel keeps moving when

guests grow tired of pedaling, while the host ensures a memorable time for all.

“Paddle Pub has dedicated over a year to meticulously planning our launch in Marina Del Rey, and we are thrilled to finally hit the water and offer both locals and tourists a unique way to celebrate,” remarked Paddle Pub Management.

Paddle Pub Marina Del Rey will be conveniently located at 13645 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, providing easy access for visitors.

About Paddle Pub: Paddle Pub is a one-ofa-kind 26-passenger pedal-powered pontoon boat, designed to create the ultimate party on the water. Complete with a state-of-the-art sound system, 12 pedaling stations, a spacious backbench, and vibrant party lighting, Paddle Pub allows guests to pack a cooler with snacks and drinks while pedaling their way through the renowned Marina Del Rey Harbor.

With its upcoming opening, Paddle Pub

Your Surprise Guide to Quintessential California Road Trips

If creating memorable travel experiences is on your bucket list for 2023, One California Day, a sustainably minded experiential travel company based in Los Angeles, should be your first destination.

Boasting a handful of curated surprise daytrip itineraries to California’s most alluring and lesser known destinations, founder Trina Hendry created One California Day as a road trip reimagined.

One California Day is as easy as choosing a themed trip, receiving an itinerary through the mail or digital download and then heading out on your adventure.

“People are looking for reasons to get out of the house and these curated one-day trips make it so easy to do just that,” Hendry said. “Planning a trip, even a day outing, takes personal time and research, which is something we are all running short on these days. At One California Day, we’ve done the legwork, handpicked and vetted each location, and crafted self-guided itineraries that lead you to many of California’s best destinations, one surprise stop at a time.

Working with travel influencers and by the grace of her own travel experiences, Hendry releases a series of trip highlights and destinations on her website but doesn’t reveal the individual stops until you have purchased the mailed packet ($75) or downloadable PDF ($55).

== Trips departing from Los Angeles explore the most stunning themed destinations. They include:

Joshua Tree Area: Desert Oddities and Curiosities — a 10-hour excursion to unexpected places in the most unforgiving environment, the desert.

Ojai: A Taste of California Sun — an eighthour day to the southern edge of a national forest, showcasing culinary delights native to California.

Santa Barbara: Hot Springs, History & Healing — hiking to hot springs and cultural, culinary and mindful experiences in a 10- hour day.

Santa Ynez Valley: “S” is For Sideways — the beauty and serenity of the region made famous in the cult wine movie, Sideways, in a 10-hour day.

Santa Ynez Valley: A Day in the “Old West” — a glimpse into the past exploring native art in a 10-hour day.

Carlsbad/Encinitas: Sushi, Self-Realization & Sunset Sips — historic beach towns known for fresh seafood, craft beer and wine, and stunning sunsets in a 10-hour day.

Malibu: Where the Sky is More Blue — a quick jaunt up and down the Pacific Coast Highway discovering iconic landmarks, local beaches and fresh catches.

In addition to surprise road trips, Hendry also provides trip planning services and ways to give back through her company’s products.

To offset as many emissions as possible created by your automobile during these excursions, One California Day donates 1% of its annual revenue to 1% For the Planet, a certification given to businesses that meet high-bar commitment in donating 1% to environmental causes. Printable materials are also responsibly sourced. One-dollar donations are also available at checkout to plant trees in your name with One Tree Planted.

“Our mission is to showcase the splendor of California through well-crafted road trip itineraries that highlight unique attractions, support local businesses, encourage responsible and sustainable travel, and ultimately spread joy,” Hendry said.

Digital gift cards are available for the

One California Day surprise guides, and the itineraries make unique corporate gifts. Each itinerary via mail comes with a series of four sealed envelopes that you open as you go to reveal the stops, which could include attractions, restaurants and other local activities; a keepsake; and a curated list of local hotels in the area of your choice. For those who don’t like surprises, the downloadable PDF reveals the entire itinerary instantaneously. Additional costs associated with your trip, reservations and hotel accommodations are not included but can be arranged by One California Day’s trip-planning service.

Trips from San Diego and San Francisco can also be purchased. For more information, visit www.onecaliforniaday.co/

“Smart Home” in Palisades Goes On Market For Over $7M

Former City Attorney Sentenced To House Arrest In

Palisades

The Home Includes Solar Energy Systems.

Not far from the Getty Villa and the Los Liones Trail, a Pacific Palisades estate has gone on the market for $7.6 million.

Built in 2015, the contemporary home provides views of the mountains, canyon vistas, and the ocean. It also includes a primary suite with canyon, ocean & pool views. There are four other bedrooms with one having a private entrance and another with a built-in workspace

and Murphy bed which can serve as a separate office or maid’s room.

The home could also be considered to be a “smart house”, including solar energy systems for the home and pool which can be converted to saltwater if desired, LED lighting, energyefficient windows and a state of the art Chef”s kitchen with Miele/SubZero appliances.

There is also a whole house water filtration system and a pneumatic elevator going from the first floor to the rooftop kitchen, grill, and terrace that gives views of Santa Monica Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

The home is listed by Anthony Marguleas and Amalfi Estates, according to Zillow.com.

The Sentence Includes Three Years Of Probation And A $50,000 Fine.

A former top lawyer in the City Attorney’s Office, Thomas H. Peters, 56, will serve nine months confined to his Pacific Palisades home after pleading guilty to a federal charge related to a Department of Water and Power extortion scandal.

The sentence, announced in federal court on Tuesday, includes three years of probation and a $50,000 fine.

While the U.S. District Court’s Probation Office recommended a 41-month prison sentence for Peters, prosecutors sought an abbreviated sentence citing his “substantial assistance” investigating the 2013-14 DWP overbilling scandal.

Peters admitted to aiding and abetting the extortion scheme, which involved Peters threatening to fire a city lawyer unless they paid someone who threatened to expose damaging information about how the city handled the DWP billing situation.

Peters is the third city employee sentenced in the corruption case

VOLLEYBALL CAMP BEACH

Week: $330 Day Rate: $80

Camp Dates: June 12 - Aug 18, 2023 Time: 9:00am-12:00pm

Location: Will Rodgers State Beach in Pacific Palisades

Registration Opens: April 1

Registration Link: https://sunshinevolleyball.sportngin.com/ register/form/541609047

Registration Site: SunshineVolleyballClub.com

Construction At Canyon Charter Elementary To Start This Year

The Project Will Include

Two Kinder Classrooms.

Although obstacles have gotten in the way of construction schedule and some permits are still pending, the Los Angeles Unified School District is anticipating construction of the “Classroom Replacement Project” at Canyon Charter Elementary School to begin before the end of 2023.

The project will include demolishing two kinder classrooms with seven regular classrooms, a new 2-story building with nine classrooms, new wiring for classroom interconnection networks, a relocation of the historical schoolhouse building and a new playground with heat-reducing solar-reflective

pavement.

Before construction begins, there will be a pre-construction community meeting to address student safety, construction schedules and minimizing impacts of construction of student instruction at the school.

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week 7: august 14-18

week 8: august 21-25

kids ages 6-12 join the fun this summer 9am - 2 pm

Member non-member

2-days: tue/thu $298 $398

3-days: mon/wed/fri $417 $517

5-days: mon-fri $595 $695 Register online now www.flip1st.com