by Niki Smart | Jun 5, 2023
OC Parks Sunset Cinema Film Series Kicks Off June 9. (Orange County, Calif.) – The County of Orange and OC Parks are proud to present the annual OC Parks Summer Concert Series and Sunset Cinema film series. Enjoy summer nights under the stars with free live music and movie screenings at regional parks throughout Orange County. All events are family-friendly with free parking and food and drink options available for purchase.
OC Parks Summer Concert Series returns with 10 free outdoor concerts Thursday evenings, June 22 to Aug. 24 from 5 to 8 p.m. Enjoy live music from exceptional bands and artists at Craig Regional Park, Irvine Regional Park, Mason Regional Park, Mile Square Regional Park and Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach.
The concert series kicks off with Paco Versailles June 22 at Craig Regional Park in Fullerton, followed by popular local and acclaimed touring artists including The Rembrandts, Ozomatli, No Duh, FlashPants, The English Beat, The Aquabats! and Queen Nation, with an additional artist to be announced. Flashback Heart Attack will close out the 2023 OC Parks Summer Concert Series with an electrifying performance at Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach.
OC Parks Sunset Cinema film series brings the big screen to your favorite regional parks with 14 free movie screenings Friday nights beginning June 9 to Sept. 8 at Craig Regional Park, Carbon Canyon Regional Park, Yorba Regional Park, Irvine Regional Park, Mason Regional Park, Laguna Niguel Regional Park and Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach. Guests of all ages can enjoy recent blockbusters and popular classics, complete with pre-show entertainment beginning at 6 p.m. Showtimes begin after sundown, at approximately 8 p.m.
Friday night films kick off June 9 and include Thor: Love and Thunder (2022), A Bug’s Life (1998), Minions: The Rise of Gru (2022), Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986), Top Gun: Maverick (2022), Clueless (1995), Lightyear (2022), Nacho Libre (2006), Cruella (2021), Kung Fu Panda (2008), Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021), Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971), Uncharted (2022) and Mamma Mia! (2008).
“The County of Orange and OC Parks are thrilled to bring another fun-filled summer of entertainment to the community,” said Donald P. Wagner, Chairman of the Orange County Board of Supervisors. “Enjoying a free concert or movie in the beautiful parks across the County is a wonderful way for visitors of all ages to celebrate the summer outdoors.”
OC Parks Summer Concert Series and Sunset Cinema film series are open to all ages and free to attend with free parking. Food trucks will serve a variety of cuisines at each location and a beer and wine garden will be available to those 21 and over. Join your friends and family and enjoy free concerts and movie screenings this summer with OC Parks.
OC Parks Summer Concert Series
Thursday nights, 5 p.m. (Event starts at 5 p.m., live music begins at 6 p.m.)
Date: June 22
Concert: Paco Versailles @ Craig Regional Park
Date: June 29
Concert: Sweet and Tender Hooligans @ Craig Regional Park
Date: July 6
Concert: The Rembrandts @ Irvine Regional Park
Date: July 13
Concert: Ozomatli @ Irvine Regional Park
Date: July 20
Concert: No Duh: The Ultimate Tribute to No Doubt @ Mason Regional Park
Date: July 27
Concert: FlashPants @ Mason Regional Park
Date: August 3
Concert: The English Beat @ Mile Square Regional Park
Date: August 10
Concert: The Aquabats! @ Mile Square Regional Park
Date: August 17
Concert: Queen Nation @ Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach
Date: August 24
Concert: Flashback Heart Attack @ Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach
OC Parks Sunset Cinema
Friday nights, 6 p.m. (Event starts at 6 p.m., movie begins at sunset)
Date: June 9
Movie: Thor: Love and Thunder (2022) @ Craig Regional Park
Date: June 16
Movie: A Bug’s Life (1998) @ Craig Regional Park
Date: June 23
Movie: Minions: The Rise of Gru (2022) @ Carbon Canyon Regional Park
Date: June 30
Movie: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986) @ Carbon Canyon Regional Park
Date: July 7
Movie: Top Gun: Maverick (2022) @ Yorba Regional Park
Date: July 14
Movie: Clueless (1995) @ Yorba Regional Park
Date: July 21
Movie: Lightyear (2022) @ Irvine Regional Park
Date: July 28
Movie: Nacho Libre (2006) @ Irvine Regional Park
Date: August 4
Movie: Cruella (2021) @ Mason Regional Park
Date: August 11
Movie: Kung Fu Panda (2008) @ Mason Regional Park
Date: August 18
Movie: Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021) @ Laguna Niguel Regional Park
Date: August 25
Movie: Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971) @ Laguna Niguel Regional Park
Date: September 1
Movie: Uncharted (2022) @ Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach
Date: September 8
Movie: Mamma Mia! (2008) @ Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach
by Niki Smart | Dec 12, 2022
Zinc Café & Market recently opened a 2nd location in L.A. on Melrose in West Hollywood. SoCal Magazine caught up with restaurateur extraordinaire, John Secretan at his latest Zinc. I’ve known John for a long time and continue to be impressed with the effortless ease with which he expands his Zinc horizons. The Melrose location is Zinc number 4 (with 5 & 6 already in the pipeline).
The name, Zinc Café & Market, comes from the French colloquialism for a bistro/café/bar: “le zinc”. Le zinc was the omnipresent Parisienne neighborhood bar, named after the zinc countertops which were a standard feature of the cafés. “Le zinc” came to characterize the type of café/bar that typically served coffee, wine, beer and snacks.
Secretan opened the first Zinc Cafe in Laguna Beach in 1988, with the idea in mind that you could simply walk in and eat at the counter top like its namesake in France. The place grew in popularity and flourished into a sit down restaurant and since then, Zinc has replicated in Corona Del Mar, LA’s Arts District, and now, the Melrose area.
John is thrilled to be a part of the dynamic, vibrant, historic West Hollywood area. Community is important to him and John strives to support the neighborhoods of his Zinc cafes. For example: Zinc Café & Market in Laguna Beach supports School Power; Zinc in DTLA supports the arts; and now Melrose Zinc is looking to support the LGBTQ community that call West Hollywood home.
In the spirit of community building and to celebrate their new extended hours and dinner menu, the Melrose Zinc team is throwing a community party on Wednesday 12.14 from 4-7pm featuring tastings of Caroline Juen’s new “Best Coast Wines” and samples of the dinner menu.
New menu items at the Melrose location include the Middle Eastern Breakfast with fresh herbs, labneh, a jammy egg & sourdough, a Sugar Kiss Melon Salad with fennel & parmesan and a Fried Egg Sandwich with herb cream cheese, pickled onions & persian cucumber. Signature Zinc menu items from existing locations are also available. All in all, a menu that is healthy, nourishing and delicious. Melrose also serves beer and wine and offers light alcohol cocktails on their menu (ie- spritz). The price range for meals is on average $22-$26. Go and check it out. For more information please click here
The Melrose Zinc’s space includes an indoor dining room, a peaceful and expansive outdoor veranda, a retail market area and new private dining room. Street parking is best, and the Design Center has lots of available parking and is two short blocks away.
John Secretan holds up the latest trend…wine in a can. Photos credit: Zuke Oshiro
Cover photo: Jenn Emerling
by Niki Smart | Apr 23, 2022
BODIES 2.0: The Universe Within Exhibition Opens on the Third Street Promenade
Exhibit features the first ever virtual reality experience that takes you INSIDE the body in full 360! On view through October 15, 2022
Image provided courtesy of EMS Entertainment.
WHAT: The renowned traveling science exhibition returns to Southern California with BODIES 2.0: The Universe Within, now open on the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica. Presented by EMS Entertainment, BODIES 2.0 offers an unprecedented and entirely unique view into the amazing human body, showcasing over 200 actual human specimens, whole bodies and organs respectfully displayed.
Did you ever wonder how the human body is composed and put together? Have you ever wanted to understand how the conservation process of specimens works? BODIES 2.0 will get you the answers to both of these questions in a surprising, jaw-dropping and spectacular way. As an entirely new specialty, BODIES 2.0 makes the human body explorable through a virtual reality ride that takes visitors into the inside of a human body for a closer look at the inner self. This seven minute immersive experience uses VR headsets and is offered at a small extra charge. Come explore, experience and celebrate the wonder of the human form at BODIES 2.0., on display through October 15, 2022.
WHEN: The exhibition is on view through October 15, 2022; open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
WHERE: Santa Monica Art Museum, 1219 Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA 90401
TICKETS: Advance tickets are encouraged. Book online through BodiesSantaMonica.com.
All tickets include a free Audio and Video Guide to download.
TICKET RATES: General Admission
** VR upgrade: $8.00
VIP Admission
** All VIP Tickets include the exhibition catalog
CONTENT ADVISORY: Please be advised, the content of this exhibition can be of strong emotional impact to visitors.
by Niki Smart | Feb 25, 2022
LOS ANGELES ARTIST’S JOURNEY OF SELF-EXPLORATION AND TRANSFORMATION DURING ISOLATION OFFERS A SENSE OF HOPE FOR A NEW ERA
Building Bridges Art Exchange announces their upcoming show 
by artist Walter Erra Hubert and curated by Marisa Caichiolo, which takes place from February 26 to March 30, 2022 at Bergamot Station Arts Center (2525 Michigan Ave. Unit F2, Santa Monica).
Walter Erra Hubert is a Pasadena-born, internationally-recognized artist working in the mediums of acrylic paintings, mono prints, resin and mixed media. Walter chose to self-isolate in 2018, two years before the international lockdown, resulting in his latest striking body of work Promising Skies, which reflects a world moving towards a new reality. The large-scale art works are realized in acrylic while the show will also feature his works that incorporate resin and mixed media. All of the art will be showcased at Building Bridges Art Exchange’s Santa Monica Gallery.
Born to Italian immigrant parents, Walter is heavily influenced by his U.S. and Italian roots and straddles both worlds. His Pasadena studio provides space for exploration inspired by the expanse of the metropolis while his home and studio in the Italian countryside allow for a sense of separation associated with nature and introspection. Walter’s Italian heritage and 30 years of experience using varied artistic mediums appealed to Argentinean Curator Marisa Caichiolo who actively seeks to showcase a diverse range of artists from around the world. “Walter’s eerily-timed decision to self-isolate inadvertently became emblematic of a universal experience and, during that time, his quest to connect with the core of his being ended up producing his strongest and most significant body of work, which we’re thrilled to showcase in Los Angeles”.
Walter’s self-imposed lockdown began at his Pasadena studio and continued at his studio in his home in rural Italy. His isolation resulted in these multi-dimensional, multi-layered works . The magnificent large canvases invite the viewer to embark on a journey of discovery through Walter’s impressive brush work, dripping paint and penetrating energy.
Walter’s expression is deeply influenced by the subconscious, a comparison that can be drawn to current events of the pandemic and post-pandemic era. The magic of nature and journeys of the spirit are at the core of Walter’s work. Promising Skies encapsulates Walter’s vision with imaginary and mystical elements. He creates paintings by merging a multitude of tools, including everyday items such as spatulas, wood carving tools and hair dryers and the fluidity of the materials captures the artist’s strokes and movements. Walter muses, “I am in constant exploration of the tension we perceive between the realms of matter and spirit. I hope that the viewer senses that language and is drawn into the relevance of the journey.”
Although the current global outlook may be seen as bleak and unpredictable, Promising Skies reflects a world moving towards a new reality with a sense of hope. In each translucent piece, an ocean of opportunities, portals and evocative lights can be seen beckoning toward the future, representing the promise of new beginnings. Connecting to the past and creating a bridge to the future is the ideal path for Walter to engage with today’s collective consciousness. Explosions of light, volcanic eruptions, deep water currents and sensual feeling inspired by connections between the elements are among the bounty of natural phenomena that nourish his perspective and vision of the universal forces of Mother Earth.
Walter was recently selected as an American artist to show at the 2022 9th Beijing International Art Biennale in China. The exhibition is currently being held at the National Art Museum of China in Beijing through March 2022. The curatorial theme is The Light of Life and the piece selected by the curatorial committee is “The Light Portal”. This piece was completed in 2021 by the artist as part of the series, “The Era of Solitude”. He has had several solo shows in Europe and his paintings can be found in the permanent collections of the M.A.C.I.S.T contemporary art museum in Italy, and venerable institutions including the L.A. Times Mirror Building. Walter was also recently chosen as a featured artist for a special Miami ART BASEL publication.
Promising Skies can be viewed from February 26 to March 30, 2022 at Building Bridges Art Exchange at Bergamot Station Arts Center (2525 Michigan Ave. Unit F2, Santa Monica). BBAX is open Tuesday to Friday (11am – 5pm) and Saturday (noon – 6pm).
https://www.waltererrahubert.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/waltererrahubert/
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/waltererrahubertart
by Niki Smart | Feb 6, 2022
Need ideas for a dinner date? Here are some top restaurants that are offering a Valentine’s Special. Happy love day to you.
LOS ANGELES COUNTY
San Pedro Fish Market | Long Beach
What: San Pedro Fish Market Long Beach welcomes guests to celebrate love and seafood with a selection of specials available during Valentine’s Day weekend, from Friday, February 11 through Monday, February 14. Catch the sunset from the restaurant’s picturesque waterfront setting under twinkling bistro patio lights while enjoying the freshest seafood in town. Indulge in an elevated surf n’ turf experience of New York Strip, Lobster & Bearnaise or opt for the Lobsta’ Pot Pie, a comforting classic with a seaside twist. End the day of love with the decadent Chocolate Torte layered with roasted raspberry jam, sprinkled with hazelnut crumble and served with vanilla ice cream.
Reservations: (562) 606-0090, sanpedrofish.com
Address: 6550 E Marina Dr., Long Beach, CA 90803.
Little Tokyo
What: Go Little Tokyo to celebrate love this Valentine’s Day in one of Los Angeles’ most vibrant and culturally rich communities. With a vast array of unique dining experiences and daily happenings, the lively neighborhood offers the perfect destination to explore and indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine. To uncover more delicious dining destinations and happenings in Little Tokyo, visit golittletokyo.com.
Tamon Sushi
Details: For dinner on Valentine’s Day, stop by Tamon Sushi located in the heart of Little Tokyo at the Miyako Hotel Los Angeles. Look out over the energetic streets below while indulging in a Valentine’s Day special offering a sushi dinner or a 10 oz. ribeye steak dinner paired with a glass of wine and slice of cheesecake for dessert. The Valentine’s Day dinner special is $35 per person and available on Monday, February 14, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. by reservation.
Reservations: tamonyoyaku@gmail.com, (213) 617-7839
Address: Miyako Hotel, 328 1st St #2F, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Shojin | Little Tokyo
Details: For exquisite plant-based creations, look no further than vegan haven, Shojin, offering a four-course, prix fixe menu of gluten-free, macrobiotic, and organic Japanese dishes including the Truffled “Crab Cake” and a Signature Sushi Plate including Shojin Dynamite, Dragon, Valentine Rainbow, and Spicy “Tuna” on Crispy Rice. Shojin’s Valentine’s Day menu is $98 per person and is available on Monday, February 14 for dine-in. Shojin will also offer a special Valentine’s Day platter for pick-up and delivery available for pre-order by phone.
Reservations: www.theshojin.com, (213) 617-0305
Address: 333 S. Alameda St,. #310 Los Angeles CA 90013
Ootoro Sushi | Little Tokyo
Details: For those planning to celebrate love all week long, Ootoro Sushi, a local favorite known for epicurean sushi creations, is offering a special post-Valentine’s Day dining experience. Tuesday, February 15 through Sunday, February 20, guests will receive a complimentary bottle of Dassai 45 sake (300ml) with the purchase of two Omakase courses ranging from $185–$250 per person. The innovative, eight-course menu is nothing short of extravagance, featuring lobster sashimi and toro tartare with caviar. The Omakase menu is subject to change based on availability and is only available at Ootoro Sushi’s Little Tokyo location.
Reservations: (213) 278-0056
Address: 232 E 2nd St E, Los Angeles, CA 90012
ORANGE COUNTY
Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens | Corona del Mar
What: Cozy up with that special someone and dine al fresco this Valentine’s Day in the romantic garden setting of Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens. Experience sustainably sourced Valentine’s Day lunch and dinner specials highlighting Southern California’s freshest flavors of the moment courtesy of Owner and Executive Chef Rich Mead. Toast to your loved one with a specialty cocktail crafted by Chef de Swigs, Anthony Laborin, and add a Roger’s Gardens floral arrangement to your meal for $35. Floral orders must be placed two days prior to reservation. Call to reserve. The Valentine’s Day specials are available for dine-in Friday, February 11-Monday, February 14 from 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
Reservations: (949) 640.1415 or visit www.farmhouserg.com
Address: 2301 San Joaquin Hills Rd., Corona del Mar, CA 92625
Descanso Restaurant | Costa Mesa
What: Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Descanso Restaurant by indulging in the authentic flavors of modern Mexican cuisine with a $75 three-course dining experience for two courtesy of Executive Chef Fonzy De Zuniga. The Valentine’s Day menu is an inspired combination of Descanso’s most popular dishes, featuring the flavorful Paraiso Huachinango, a chili seasoned deep-fried whole red snapper, accompanied by Mexican Fried Rice and Serrano Chile Potatoes. Pair with one of the restaurant’s specialty margaritas or a curated selection of tequilas from the tableside tequila cart. End the meal on a sweet note with Descanso’s take on traditional Flan, topped with hibiscus dust and berries. Available for dine-in on February 14, from 3–9 p.m.
Reservations: (714) 486.3798. descansorestaurant.com
Address: 1555 Adams Ave., Suite 103, Costa Mesa
Billy’s at the Beach | Newport Beach
What: Celebrate love aloha style at Billy’s at the Beach Friday, February 11 through Valentine’s Day, Monday, February 14. Treat that special someone to an unforgettable waterfront dining experience with island-inspired cocktails and Valentine’s Day specials courtesy of Executive Chef Robert Luna. Billy’s will be open for the holiday on Monday, February 14 and offer Chef Robert’s mouthwatering prix fixe menu from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. The unforgettable $160 three-course menu for two features a choice of entrée including Pan Seared 8oz. Filet of Beef served with roasted garlic mashed potatoes and sauteed green beans with housemade steak butter and Macadamia Nut Crusted Halibut with sweet black rice and stir fry vegetables.
Reservations: (949) 722-1100, Billysatthebeach.net
Address: 2751 W Coast Highway, Newport Beach, CA 92663
by Niki Smart | Jan 17, 2022
Dana Point Harbor Partners to Host Blood Drive on January 27
Enjoy a free yoga class at iHeartYoga, a cup of coffee or ice cream from Coffee Importers and a Killer Dana tote bag for donating.
WHAT: Dana Point Harbor Partners, in collaboration with the American Red Cross, will host a blood drive with the Red Cross Bloodmobile on Thursday, January 27 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. iHeartYoga will be offering a free yoga class, to be used within 30 days, for each donor on the day of the drive. Donors who have made an appointment, and walk-ins, will be able to sign up to receive their free yoga class via email the following day. Donors will also receive a coupon for either a cup of coffee or scoop of ice cream from Coffee Importers and a tote bag from Killer Dana Surf Shop.
There is an urgent need for donations due to the dangerously low blood supply. Scheduling an appointment is highly encouraged and can be done through RedCrossBlood.org using the sponsor code “DPHP.”
WHEN:
Thursday, January 27, 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Dana Point Harbor Partners will host another blood drive with the American Red Cross on July 28.
WHERE:
Dana Point Harbor, 34521 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point, CA 92629. The Bloodmobile will be located in the parking lot at the corner of Golden Lantern and Dana Point Harbor Drive.
MORE INFORMATION
For more information visit DanaPointHarbor.com or RedCrossBlood.org or connect with us via Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
by Niki Smart | Oct 24, 2021
by Niki Smart | Sep 30, 2021
In honor of National Coffee Day, Local LA Roaster and makers of family-crafted Don Francisco’s Coffee share three great coffee tips and some fun tidbits!
We tapped Lisette Gaviña Lopez, a fourth generation coffee roaster and marketing director for F. Gaviña & Sons, Inc. the coffee roaster her grandfather founded over 50 years ago.
What makes a great cup of coffee?
Some don’t give a second thought to what goes into their daily cup of coffee. It’s enough to know that you just need a cup or two, or three, to get you through the day. But what goes into making a great cup of coffee? Lisette breaks it down to the basics:
“Coffee has two ingredients, coffee and water, so it’s important that these two main ingredients be high quality. You can’t take bad quality coffee and make it good. So be sure to use high quality coffees like those made with only 100% Arabica beans and also make sure that the water you use is free of visible impurities or any odors. For example, Don Francisco’s Coffees are all made with 100% premium Arabica coffee sourced from the world’s finest growing regions, including Latin America, East Africa and Southeast Asia from countries such as Colombia, Brazil, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Hawaii, Ethiopia and Indonesia among others.
Coffee is an agricultural product. It’s actually the seed of a cherry that is grown on a bush. It’s mostly picked by hand and goes through a fermentation process to remove the skin. But to develop the flavors and aromas of the coffee for brewing you have to roast it. At our zero-waste-to-landfill roasting and packing facility in LA, we produce more than 40 million pounds of coffee each year from the finest selection of 100% Arabica beans, each meticulously roasted to their peak flavor, and then packaged for consumers, foodservice partners and private-label customers. Attention to quality and consistency is also an important part of this process for us. But from a consumer perspective, your senses of smell and taste are also very important in identifying great coffee. Good coffee should be highly aromatic and smell sweet and floral, and even fruity, taste rich and flavorful with a good balance of strength, body and acidity.
What is the best way to store coffee?
Lisette says: “Keep it fresh and airtight.” This is a common question and many have their own take on it, but the best way to keep coffee fresh is in an airtight container and storing it in the freezer. But, if you’re drinking a few cups daily, you won’t have to worry about your coffee lingering around for too long. It’s also important to buy fresh coffee from the get go – whether at your local store or online retailer.
Another thing that people may not think much about is the role of packaging, which serves to protect the coffee, maintain its quality, and lock in freshness and flavor. Don Francisco’s Coffee bags are flushed with nitrogen and made with a foil barrier film and a built-in patented one-way valve system to limit any exposure to oxygen and keep our coffee fresh! For Don Francisco’s Coffee bags, the valve is that little button-like imprint with the castle on the front of the bag. Some may have noticed these little valves on the front of their coffee bags too. I’m proud to say that my family’s company, F. Gaviña & Sons, Inc. pioneered the introduction of the one-way valve that is still used in every Don Francisco’s Coffee bag today. Pro tip: You can gently squeeze the bag and the valve releases the aroma to smell the coffee before you buy it.”
How do we preserve coffee for future generations?
In recent years there has been a growing interest related to coffee and sustainability and the fragile journey from seed to cup. It’s important to understand what sustainable practices are required to ensure that we never run out of coffee. After all, what is the world without coffee in it?
Lisette says: “If you care about coffee, you have to care about the environment. Caring for the environment is at the cornerstone of our family tradition and 150 coffee legacy – after all, the earth gives us coffee. Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world, with more than 450 million cups of coffee consumed daily just in the U.S. That’s a lot of coffee to be produced every year, and the only way to get more is by growing it.
As a family and a company, we are committed to great coffee from seed to cup, and beyond – sustainability plays a big role in that. We’ve operated a zero waste to landfill plant for years, but are always looking for ways to innovate to meet the changing needs and preferences of our customers, while looking for new ways to minimize environmental impact.
Our company’s Direct Impact™ Initiative was built on the belief that promoting sustainability practices in our business decisions has a direct impact on the lives our coffee touches. But our business and community initiatives aren’t enough on their own; the consumer is a critical part of this process. This is why we partnered with recycling company TerraCycle to recycle packaging from two F. Gaviña & Sons, Inc. brands, Don Francisco’s Coffee and Café La Llave which includes espresso capsules, single serve coffee pods (K-cup-style), and coffee bags.
Consumers can recycle bags and pods in four easy steps. To participate, register for the Coffee Bag and Pod Recycling Program at terracycle.com/gavina, collect your used bags and pods, print prepaid shipping labels, and mail in eligible items directly to TerraCycle for recycling. The Coffee Bag and Pod Recycling Program also gives participants the opportunity to donate to select charitable institutions based on points earned for recycling.
In addition to taking advantage of any recycling program, I encourage coffee lovers to find new ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle all coffee products. Cups, capsules, bags, cans, and coffee grounds can also be upcycled in a variety of ways. Used coffee grounds can be reused to create homemade body scrubs, and even added to the soil on flower beds. In fact, our cans of Don Francisco’s Coffee can be repurposed to make beautiful pots for plants. And, because the cans are made of steel, they can also be recycled through most municipal curbside recycling programs.”
Lisette Gaviña Lopez – Coffee Expert
by Niki Smart | Aug 31, 2021
I‘m sure we can all agree that 2020 & 2021 have been difficult. What made it a little easier for me was stumbling upon Ana Lilia’s online breathwork class. During lockdown, Ana’s Saturday morning class became the highlight of my week. Sometimes, Ana starts her class 10 minutes early, with an uplifting, freestyle dance session, and the moment I see her lovely, smiling face appear on my screen, I feel better. And the music! Ana’s thoughtful playlist is somehow always spot on. In fact, I get so much out of her class, that I asked if I could interview her for SoCal Magazine so that our readers can benefit from Ana‘s healing, too. Here is Ana Lilia‘s insight into breathwork and I highly recommend you give her class a try—you won’t regret it.
1. Why did you start doing breathwork and how long have you been doing it?
I came across a breathwork class 6 years ago during a time in my life where I was depressed, my anxiety was at an all time high and I was feeling lost. I attended a breathwork class, not knowing what it was. During the class, we focused on active breathing for 30 minutes. My body responded in ways I didn’t expect. Not only did my hands cramp up — I started crying. It was so strange to me because I’d never had that kind of reaction before. But it was just the kind of release that I needed. In what felt like an instant of clarity, everything looked and felt different to me. The world felt brighter and lighter. I felt more alive than I’d felt in a long time. Most importantly, I was filled with a sense of empowerment that hasn’t left me since. From that moment on, I knew that breathwork was going to save my life. Shortly after, I decided that I wanted to learn how to facilitate a breathwork session and introduce it to as many people as possible who live with anxiety and depression. I want the world to know about how powerful, transformative and healing breathwork is.
2. What is breathwork?
Breathwork is an active form of meditation where you manipulate your breath to change the way you feel. There are many different types of breathing techniques. And yes, our body knows how to breathe naturally, but a lot of times we aren’t breathing properly. This can create an imbalance in the oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange. That imbalance can contribute to anxiety, panic attacks, and fatigue. Have you noticed that when you’re anxious, you tend to take shallow, rapid breaths from your chest, and you may even start to hyperventilate? This increases your heart rate and creates muscle tension. Your sympathetic nervous system becomes activated, and there is a surge of adrenaline and cortisol alerting your body that it needs to protect itself.
The breathing technique I use is a two stage pranayama breathing pattern. You take a first inhale from your diaphragm, a second from your chest and then you exhale. It’s a circular breathing technique, where as soon as you exhale, you inhale right away. This breathing practice can help you release tension from your body, clear your mind, and you can also have a deep healing session. Breathwork helps you feel more in control of your emotions and grounded as we navigate these stressful times.
One of my specialities is working with people who suffer from anxiety. Many of my clients would share with me that they have panic attacks often or they have been suffering from anxiety for a long time. I created a program with guided breathing meditations to help them manage their anxiety. The biggest thing I help them with is getting to the core of why they are stressed out. This awareness gives them the power to respond instead of reactivating whey they are getting triggered. They feel like they are in control of their life again. And have practical tools they can use when they are feeling stressed out.
3. Can anyone join your breathwork classes?
Yes! Everyone is welcomed in my breathwork classes. I created
Community Gathering right at the start of the pandemic as a way to support my community through the fear and anxiety we were all experiencing due to Covid-19. The isolation was very triggering to many people, and having a safe place where we could meet virtually became something they could look forward to and be reminded that they are not alone in how they feel. Several people have told me that Community Gathering literally saved their life during the pandemic. It’s a diverse community where people from all over the world join to breathe. We have teenagers who breathe with their parents, our oldest community member is in her 90s and we have everything else in between.
4. How much is it?
As a way to make it accessible to most people, Community Gathering is a sliding scale ticket starting at $10 – $35.
5. How does music play into your class?
Music is a HUGE part of my breathwork classes. My playlists are intended to take my clients on a journey. Every song that I pick tells a story with the lyrics that will resonate with my clients. The song may have them remember an experience or it might encourage an emotion to express more easily. I let my intuition create the playlist. I tap into the energy of my client or the group, and know instinctively if the song is right or wrong for the group or the person. And sometimes, we move so much energy before we go into the active breathing that I’m playing DJ on the spot to better support them while they are breathing. You can find hundreds of my breathwork playlists on my Spotify and Apple Music profiles.
6. What experiences have your clients shared with you that touched you the most?
My clients have had deep transformational healings. After a short amount of time working with me they unpack trauma, disappointments, anxiety and other stressors. They are left feeling refreshed, renewed and empowered. And by doing this deep healing work, it also helps them manifest and get aligned with their goals. My clients have manifested their dream homes, new jobs, launched business, attracted a partner…and this is because they are more confident, they know their worth and are open to receive.
7. What is the most common reaction people have when doing your class?
They can’t believe how different they feel after breathing. The tension their body was holding onto is gone. They gain clarity on why they were stressed. It helps them gain awareness about their thoughts and how it affects their anxiety and overwhelm. That awareness helps them feel back in control. and they know they can change the way they feel by connecting with their breath.
8. What do you have coming up next?
I’m hosting a Fall Retreat the first weekend of November in Los Angeles. I also started hosting monthly in-person events at the beach. To learn more about my offerings you can visit my website www.analilia.net. If you are interested in meditations to help you manage anxiety you can find my 7-day program at www.feelcalmtoday.com And I’m also on Instagram @_ana_lilia
by Niki Smart | Aug 20, 2021
Coffee is an all-season drink that can be enjoyed year round with each season presents fitting recipes to indulge in. So while the summer season smolders on, maybe you want your cup of coffee to both pick you up and cool you down. If that‘s the case, here’s what to know about cold brews versus iced coffees.
While both are served cold, chilled over ice, their difference lies in the brewing method. For coffee connoisseurs, this makes all the difference.
The Cold Brew Truth
The name really says it all. Cold brew coffee begins its brewing process with steeping coffee grounds in cold water for twenty four hours. This process and time retains the solubles in the coffee, rather than dissolving them in heat or boiling water while also releasing qualities that attribute to the taste of the coffee with a more sweet and smooth finish and notably less bitter. It tends to be served with ice to balance the stronger flavor of the coffee.
Iced, Iced Coffee
There is far less mystery in an iced coffee. For this drink the coffee is brewed traditionally and served over ice. It is recommended to allow the coffee to cool down before it is mixed with ice to avoid watering it down or diluting the flavor. For iced coffee lovers who enjoy this drink at home, consider freezing your favorite coffee in ice cubes to use in your iced coffee in lieu of regular ice cubes.
Keep Cool with Your Cup
However you prefer to cool off with coffee, you can’t go wrong with either of these choices. Don Francisco’s Coffee, and its varieties of flavors and brews, are made only with 100% Arabica Coffee from some of the world’s best coffee-growing regions to ensure you are getting the best quality coffee in your cup. If you’re trying cold brew for the first time, try out this refreshing recipe below.
Cold Brew at Home
WHAT YOU NEED
- 1 Don Francisco’s Coffee Organic Cold Brew foil pouch (2 pitcher packs inside)
- 1 glass pitcher with lid
- 4 cups of cold filtered water (for steeping)
- 3 cups of cold filtered water (for diluting)
STEP 1: MIX
Open the foil pouch and gently place 2 pitcher packs into a glass pitcher. We recommend a large, wide, airtight pitcher with a lid.
STEP 2: ADD WATER AND STEEP
Pour 4 (8 fl oz) cups of cold filtered water into the pitcher and close tightly with the lid. (It’s normal for pitcher packs to float). Place your pitcher into the fridge for 24 hours.
STEP 3: REMOVE PITCHER PACKS
Grab the cold brew from the fridge and carefully remove the pitcher packs to avoid tearing. Add 3 (8 fl oz) cups of cold filtered water to the pitcher.
STEP 4: SERVE
Pour into a tall glass with ice, or skip the ice for a bolder taste. Enjoy!
Don Francisco’s Coffee Tip: Cold Brew stays fresh for up to seven days in the refrigerator. For a stronger brew, add less water in the final dilution step.
GIVEAWAY! — Let’s celebrate Summer & Coffee together.
Enter to win a special prize pack of Don Francisco’s Coffee.
To enter:
1. Follow @donfranciscos
2. Share why you love and need coffee.
3. Tag a friend who shares your love for coffee.
*Only comments on this post that include a tag will be considered.
Giveaway closes on Sep 30th at 11:59 PM PST. We will randomly select a winner on Oct 1st 2021.
Valid only in the US.
And visit our Facebook Page to say hi too 🙂
by Niki Smart | Jun 15, 2021
OC PARKS PRESENTS THE 2021 SUMMER CONCERT SERIES AND SUNSET CINEMA FILM SERIES
Sick of being cooped up? Then come celebrate summertime outdoors with 10 free concerts + 13 free movie screenings at OC Parks June 18 – September 10
June & July bands and film titles announced, August & September details to be announced soon
(Orange County, Calif.) – The County of Orange and OC Parks are pleased to present the 2021 OC Parks Summer Concert Series and Sunset Cinema film series and announce details for the June and July dates. Details for the August and September dates will be announced soon. All events will include free parking with food and drink available for purchase. Spend summer evenings in a family-friendly environment with free live music and movie screenings at parks across Orange County.
OC Parks Summer Concert Series returns with free outdoor concerts on Thursday evenings beginning June 24 from 5 – 8 p.m. Enjoy live music under the summer sky at Craig Regional Park, Mason Regional Park and Irvine Regional Park.
The concert series kicks off with Flashback Heart Attack on June 24 at Craig Regional Park in Fullerton, followed by fan favorite local artists including Uptown Funk, Surf’s Up, The Fenians, Queen Nation, and Tijuana Dogs.
Additional concert event details for August 5 and 12 at Mile Square Regional Park and August 19 and 26 at Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach will be announced soon.
OC Parks Sunset Cinema film series brings family-friendly movies to the big screen at your favorite regional parks on Friday nights starting June 18. Grab a drink and a snack and get cozy for a screening under the stars at Craig Regional Park, Carbon Canyon Regional Park, Yorba Regional Park and Mason Regional Park. Guests of all ages are invited to enjoy recent favorites and popular classics throughout the summer. Event site opens at 6 p.m. and movie begins at approximately 8 p.m. after sundown.
Friday night films kick off on Friday, June 18 and include The NeverEnding Story (1984), How to Train Your Dragon (2010), Independence Day (1996), Dolittle (2020), The Sandlot (1993), Toy Story 4 (2019), and Willow (1988).
Additional movie night event details for August 6 and 13 at Irvine Regional Park, August 20 and 27 at Laguna Niguel Regional Park and September 3 and 10 at Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach will be announced soon.
“The County of Orange and OC Parks are thrilled to present outdoor events to the community once again,” said Supervisor Andrew Do, Chairman of the Orange County Board of Supervisors. “Enjoying a free concert or movie with friends and family is a wonderful way to celebrate the summer and enjoy our parks across the County.”
OC Parks Summer Concert Series and OC Parks Sunset Cinema film series are entirely outdoors and will be held in accordance with the most current guidance from State and local health agencies. All events are open to the public of all ages and free to attend with free parking. Food trucks and booths will be available for delicious bites and beverages. Gather friends and family and enjoy free concerts and movie screenings this summer with OC Parks.
OC Parks Summer Concert Series
Thursday nights, 5 p.m. (Event starts at 5 p.m., live music begins at 6 p.m.)
Date: June 24
Concert: Flashback Heart Attack @ Craig Regional Park
Date: July 1
Concert: Uptown Funk @ Craig Regional Park
Date: July 8
Concert: Surf’s Up @ Mason Regional Park
Date: July 15
Concert: The Fenians @ Mason Regional Park
Date: July 22
Concert: Queen Nation @ Irvine Regional Park
Date: July 29
Concert: Tijuana Dogs @ Irvine Regional Park
August event details to be announced soon.
OC Parks Sunset Cinema Movie Series
Friday nights, 6 p.m. (Event starts at 6 p.m., movie begins at sunset)
Date: June 18
Movie: The NeverEnding Story (1984) @ Craig Regional Park
Date: June 25
Movie: How to Train Your Dragon (2010) @ Carbon Canyon Regional Park
Date: July 2
Movie: Independence Day (1996) @ Carbon Canyon Regional Park
Date: July 9
Movie: Dolittle (2020) @ Yorba Regional Park
Date: July 16
Movie: The Sandlot (1993) @ Yorba Regional Park
Date: July 23
Movie: Toy Story 4 (2019) @ Mason Regional Park
Date: July 30
Movie: Willow (1988) @ Mason Regional Park
August and September event details to be announced soon.
by Niki Smart | May 28, 2021
The statistics for chronic illness worldwide are going through the roof. Degenerative diseases are cropping up in younger and younger people and, at this point, nearly half of all Americans suffer from at least one chronic disease. On top of this, Covid-19 emerged and has us all thinking about our health. Now we all want to know how to boost our immune systems and get healthy. The problem is that the primary degenerative diseases are directly connected to malnutrition and toxins we take in by eating toxic foods, drinking toxic water and breathing toxic air. We released 84,000 synthetic new chemicals into the air in 2020 alone, and we’ve depleted our soil of vital microbes, bacteria and fungi by spraying chemicals and over farming. Okay, so now that we’ve contaminated our earth and our bodies are suffering, are we screwed? Sounds grim, doesn’t it
Well, here’s something you should know—actually everyone needs to know this: chronic disease can be reversed by eating the right food. Plus, your immune system gets a big boost when you eat the right food. Well, what is the right food?
The answers are discussed in the documentary, “Farmacy of Light”— A Quantum Leap in Healing. This film, by Ryan Wirick, is his follow up to the popular documentary “Need to Grow”. Farmacy of Light follows Erik Cutter as he introduces us to his high performance urban farm company, Alergria Farm and teaches us about regenerative soil and how incredibly important that is for not only our health, but for the health of our planet. The optimized soil biology results in superior nutrient dense vegetables, salad greens, fruit, flowers and medicinal herbs.
Erik Cutter, who has over 35 years experience growing food using natural, nutrient-dense techniques and is a leading pioneer in developing the use of hybrid food production technologies says it perfectly:
“We have to stop fighting nature and start working with her…and learn her.”
Luckily, I’m fortunate enough to know Erik personally, and when he offered to make me dinner, I jumped at the opportunity. Why? Because I know that at Erik’s house everything he serves is pure health. And true to form, Erik had a bowl full of freshly picked, nutritious “amazingness” standing ready when I arrived. The “amazingness” is a salad that includes Romaine lettuce, Fennel, Avocado, Yellow and Orange Calendula, Nasturtium, Lemon and more, all grown at Alergria Farms with regenerated soil and without any chemicals. Erik had also prepared a flower/herb tea blend tea that helps strengthen resilience and protects you from colds, flus and viruses. The freshly harvested ingredients include: Ginger and Turmeric root, ground black pepper, Indian blanket, Yellow and Orange Calendula, Yellow Cosmos, Nasturtium, Oregano, Parsley, Celery, Kale, Red-veined Sorrel, Garlic, Lemon and Lime—basically, an Elixir of Health.
Erik and the team from “Farmacy of Light” are committed to getting the word out that healthy soil equates to healthy plants, and healthy plants equates to healthy humans. Add to this that Climate change is upon us, so developing new urban food production systems to grow profitable urban farms using drought resistant farming techniques is imperative.
Another well respected, forward thinker featured in the Farmacy of Light is Dr. Zach Bush. “Plants are the delivery system for the sunshine,” says Dr. Zach Bush. “It is like eating light. We need the sun. Eating healthy plants is like eating sunlight.”
Indeed, while having my amazing salad at Erik’s home, I felt as if I was eating light and good health. My body was getting all the nutrients and minerals it needed to heal. Don‘t you want that, too?
You can visit Alegria Farm in Irvine at the Great Park, or sign up for a class, or boost your energy and improve your health by eating the cleanest, just-picked greens and vegetables from Alegría Fresh. If you’re not near Irvine, California, then make sure you watch “Farmacy of Light” when it is released in August 2021.
Instagram: @alegriafarms. @theneedtogrow
