Making a mother-daughter trip to Deer Valley Ski Resort in Park City, Utah

Bear House adds whimsy to ski trails at Deer Valley Ski Resort. (Photo by Marlene Greer)

Bear House adds whimsy to ski trails at Deer Valley Ski Resort. (Photo by Marlene Greer)

By Marlene Greer, Correspondent

It was snowing for the first time in three weeks when my stepdaughter and I arrived at Deer Valley Resort in early February: Six inches of soft powder over groomed hardpack and just under freezing. Ideal conditions.

We were standing midmountain looking at the trail map trying to decide where to head to for some easy intermediate terrain. We had tried Bald Mountain earlier and found it too chopped up. It also has a 9,400-foot summit, so we were looking for something a bit easier on our first day on skis this season.
A mountain host gave us some great advice.

“Head to Flagstaff Mountain. There are some beauuuutiful blues off the back side,” the friendly Aussie said with the enthusiasm of a skier on a powder day. Everything was an exclamation!

“Take Hawkeye first. It’s excellent! Groomed with a nice pitch,” he advised. “Then try Sidewinder; it’s a bit steeper, but still nice. They are all just beautiful runs!”

This was our first trip to Deer Valley, and we found many “beautiful blues” in the next two days of skiing. We particularly liked Little Baldy Peak. The runs were groomed, nearly deserted (even on a Saturday) and there were no lift lines. We felt like we had the place to ourselves.

Deer Valley, one of the three major ski resorts in Park City, Utah, covers five mountain peaks and 2,026 acres. All levels of terrain can be accessed on all peaks with the exception of the resort’s highest — Empire Peak at 9,500 feet — which offers intermediate and expert terrain only.

Most of the lifts have high-speed quads, giving skiers more time on the slopes. The resort is surrounded by private property, so you’ll see large homes on the side of many runs.

Look for the Raccoon House and the Bear House off Last Chance Trail. Both have whimsical critters of all sizes hanging from the roof, sitting on the deck, peeking in windows and hiding in trees.

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British Virgin Islands holds Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival

The British Virgin Islands Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival is one of the largest regattas in the Caribbean. The aqua waters around the British Virgin Islands in the northern Caribbean, attracts over 100 yachts and sailors, friends and families from around the world.

The pride of excellence of a well organized regatta, with international race officers and experienced committee members to ensure the best racing in the world. Save-the-Date-2014-Web-Banner-Vertical

With 18 classes and three race areas allows all participants exclusive races depending on wind, waters and conditions.   Racing in three bodies of water; the main Sir Francis Drake Channel, the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by over 60 islands, give the race committee a variety of windward/leewards and around island races to choose from.

We have a number of bareboat charters as well as high performance race boats for charter as well.  Rating offered are CSA, IRC, HPR and new Multihull.

Of course all the racing is complimented by our fantastic Caribbean parties at the Regatta Village located right at Nanny Cay Resort and Marina.  Each night we have live music, plenty of local and international food, and our main bar serving the coldest beer, rum drinks and champagne for all those thirsty sailors, friends and families to enjoy under the stars on the beach side of the turquoise waters.

In addition to the BVI Spring Regatta is our Sailing Festival prior to the Round Tortola regatta on Tuesday and an island adventure on Wednesday.   These days are made for some good sailing, but to let crews gain some experience in our waters, with their crew and their boats.

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Discover jellyfish exhibit in Sea Life Aquarium at Legoland in Carlsbad

Jellyfish exhibit at Sea Life Aquarium at Legoland (photo courtesy of Legoland)

Jellyfish exhibit at Sea Life Aquarium at Legoland (photo courtesy of Legoland)

They are unusual, mysterious and have been around for more than 650 million years and now they can be seen like never before as SEA LIFE® Aquarium at LEGOLAND® California Resort introduces: Jellyfish Discovery!

 In this new interactive attraction that opened March 6, guests can marvel at more than 100 jellies gracefully dancing around ceiling-high tube tanks with multi-colored spotlights creating a spectacular experience.

The exhibit features a variety of jellyfish species from around the globe, hands-on elements and daily educational talks.

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Cypress Inn celebrates Doris Day’s 90th birthday in Carmel

 It’s a party for the pooch and animal advocates alike this April as Carmel’s Cypress Inn rolls out a celebratory classic cocktail and donation to Doris Day Animal Foundation (DDAF) to honor the screen icon’s 90thbirthday (April 3).

Coinciding with the Foundation’s “90 to 90” fundraiser, Cypress Inn’s lively Yappy Hour will debut a Bourbon & Bone hand-crafted cocktail served with a doggy bone back for $9.90.  Available April 1 through 30, Bourbon & Bone proceeds will be directed to Day’s charitable organization focused on animal rescue, spay and adoption programs. www.cypress-inn.com.

KUDOS TO CANINES

Sporting a brood of rescue dogs of her own, Hollywood’s golden girl and animal activist set the standard for four-legged travel long before pet-friendly lodging was in vogue.  Cypress Inn was one of California’s first hotel properties to welcome pets in the mid-1980s and has since seen everything from parrots to potbellied pigs check in for an adventure by the sea.

Today, the historic 1929 inn — just a ball’s toss from leash-free Carmel Beach — joins 22 Carmel-by-the-Sea properties catering to canines.  Standard perks includeconcierges carrying grain-free all-natural dog treats,  daily Yappy Hour, culinary canine menu and all of the Inn’s 44 newly-renovated contemporary guestrooms appointed with dog bowls, plush dog beds and in-room fireplaces.

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Western Stampede rolls into Chowchilla on March 14

 If you’re in the area of Chowchilla’s Robertson Boulevard on  March 14, you may see a few hundred head of cattle making their way down the city’s main boulevard. Don’t worry, however. It’s not the scene of some bizarre accident; it’s the kick off for the 57th annual Chowchilla Western Stampede, starting at 10:00a.m.

The Stampede is a long-running rodeo that takes place each year at the Chowchilla Madera County Fairgrounds. There have already been numerous qualifier events held leading up to the big rodeo, which is considered one of the premier roping and barrel racing rodeos around.

“The Stampede is a great event that brings friends and neighbors together from all over. This annual event is part of Chowchilla’s heritage and a lot of fun. It is something that locals and visitors alike look forward to each year,” said Mayor Dennis Haworth.

The excitement kicks off with the annual cattle drive down Robertson Boulevard, a unique way to kick off an event for sure: what was once a commonplace occurrence in city’s hosting rodeos is now only one of three events like it nationwide.

“To see hundreds of cattle walking down the street is certainly one of those moments that stick out in your memory,” one onlooker said.

“One can imagine that it’s kind of like looking to the past at what life was like in these western towns many, many years ago”.

The cattle drive is followed by three days of rodeo action where some of the best competitors vie for the coveted belt buckle as well as cash rewards.

The cattle drive makes its way down Robertson Boulevard starting at 10 am. All other rodeo events take place at the indoor arena at the Chowchilla Madera County Fairgrounds. For more information, find their Facebook page by searching Chowchilla Western Stampede.

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Celebrate Good Taste

 A Three-Day Culinary Adventure Happens This Weekend in Laguna Beach

(Laguna Beach, Calif.) – Sip, Dine, Savor and Getaway … when Celebrate Good Taste – A Three-Day Culinary Adventure takes place Friday, March 7–Sunday, March 9, 2014 throughout Laguna Beach.

Experience world-class cuisine and prix fixe menus created by award-winning chefs. Take-in food & beverage pairings, chefs’ tables and major daily events. Exclusive hotel packages are also available so you can take advantage of all the offerings over the three days.

Laguna Beach has been recognized as a culinary destination for many years,” said Karyn Philippsen, event co-chair. “We are looking forward to this three-day celebration by bringing people together to enjoy inventive cuisine paired with superb wine, beer and cocktail offerings, while experiencing our renowned art community and warm hospitality.”

Daily Events

Friday, March 7

Sunset, Mojitos and Appetizers at The Rooftop Lounge at Hotel La Casa del Camino

Sponsored by Bacardi USA

5 p.m.-8 p.m.

$49 per person

A night of signature fresh fruit mojitos, beer, wine and Chef Craig’s top 10 tastes from K’ya Bistro Bar. Each guest will take home a special gift from The Rooftop Lounge! The event is limited to 75 guests. Advance reservations are required: rooftop@casaresortsinc.com or 949-505-5079.

 

Beer vs. Wine at Surf & Sand Resort and Spa

5:30-8:30 p.m.

$49 per person

Reservations required (limited seating): 949-376-2761 or talpert@jcresorts.com

Guests will enjoy five interactive food stations with a menu prepared by Splashes Executive Chef David Fuñe, with beer and wine pairings by ‘Dr.’ Bill Sysak of Stone Brewing and Lisa Tuttle of Constellation Wine Brands. Event will take place at the Pool Deck. Click hereto view the menu.

 

‘Chef Table’ at Maro Wood Grill

6 p.m.

$65 per person

Reservations: 949-793-4044

Enjoy a four-course dinner with wine pairings at the Chef Bar. Guests can also participate in a Q&A with the Chef during and after the meal.

 

Masters of Malt – Macallan and Highland Park Whisky Dinner at The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach

Welcome reception: 6 p.m.; Seated dinner: 7 p.m.

$125 per person (plus tax and gratuity)

Reservations: 949-715-6420. Advance reservations are required; space is limited.

Chef de Cuisine Casey Overton invites you to an evening celebrating the world’s finest Scotch Whisky. Join The Macallan Ambassador Kieron Elliot and Highland Park Ambassador Martin Daraz for this unique occasion to experience hand selected single malt whiskies paired with Chef Overton’s sumptuous four-course prix fixe menu created exclusively for this event. Click herefor more details.

 

Saturday, March 8

Beer & a Bite at 15fifty Lounge at Surf & Sand Resort and Spa

5-6 p.m.

$15 per pairing or $60 for all four pairings

No reservations required.

Enjoy beer by ‘Dr.’ Bill Sysak, Stone Brewing Co & a small plate by Executive Chef David Fuñe – the perfect pairing! Click hereto view the menu

‘Chef Table’ at Maro Wood Grill

6 p.m.

$65 per person

Reservations: 949-793-4044

Enjoy a four-course dinner with wine pairings at the Chef Bar. Guests can also participate in a Q&A with the chef during and after the meal.

 

Sunday, March 9

Gospel & Champagne Brunch

11 a.m.-1 p.m.

$50 per person

Buy tickets ONLINE or call 949-715-9713

Laguna Beach Live! is bringing back Gospel & Champagne Brunch featuring Voices in Praise and the talented Ava Dupree at Tivoli Too!. The event is expected to sell out as it has each year. Click here for more details.

 

Sustain Local Art & Cuisine with “Art of Dining” at the Sawdust Art Festival

4-7 p.m.

$175 per person

Buy tickets ONLINE or call 949-494-3030 (space is limited to 50 seats)

Executive Chef and owner of Three Seventy Common, Ryan Adams, will create and cater a three-course sustainable meal, which will be served on handcrafted dining sets individually made by a team of 20 talented Sawdust artists. Unique one-of-a-kind art pieces will be yours to take home! These local Laguna Beach artists will attend this event to mingle and share their creative processes throughout the evening.Additional art pieces will be available for sale prior to and during the March 9 event. A portion of proceeds from this event will directly benefit creation of the Sawdust artist film project.

 

Special Pre-Event Celebration at Laguna Art Museum

Thursday, March 6

Conversation With… Malcolm Warner

7 p.m.

Free admission

The Conversation With… series brings artists and other creative minds to Laguna Art Museum to discuss their practice in a casual conversation with guests. Laguna Art Museum’s Executive Director Malcolm Warner, will discuss their current exhibit “American Memories” by Wayne Thiebaud, focusing on food in art. The evening will begin with a brief presentation by Warner, followed by the opportunity for visitors to engage with him in conversation.Click here for more details.

For more information and a list of other participating restaurants, visit www.celebrategoodtaste.com.

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Buena Ventura, Part 3

Pick a bottle and We Olive will fill it with your choice of olive oil, and refill it when you bring the bottle back.

Pick a bottle and We Olive will fill it with your choice of olive oil, and refill it when you bring the bottle back.

Story and photos by Karen Weber

Just a couple of doors away from Paradise Pantry on Main Street in Ventura,

Patrons can sample a variety of products before making a purchase.

Patrons can sample a variety of products before making a purchase.

We Olive also specializes in local products. You can taste the finest California olive oils and other olive products from around the world. Little spoons and pretzel sticks are available, so you can sample mustards, spreads and other goodies. Heidi Henning served us samples of extra-virgin Mission olive oil with a smooth buttery flavor and Olio Nuovo, the first press, which had more of a peppery bite. We sipped aged balsamic vinegar imported from Italy. (It’s the only thing imported because it’s the best, Henning said.) Then we mixed a bit of the balsamic with Meyer lemon olive oil — Heidi’s favorite blend for salad dressing. We Olive is a refill shop. It will fill bottles of various sizes with your choice of oil, then refill the bottle when you bring it back.

Our final stop was at Palermo Coffee & Gelato. We could sample as many of their 18

 Palermo Coffee & Gelato offers 18 flavors of gelato.

Palermo Coffee & Gelato offers 18 flavors of gelato.

gelato flavors as we wanted, then pick one for a full scoop. It was a hot day and the place was buzzing. Several flavors were almost out, including creme brulee. Coppa mista — pistachio, vanilla, chocolate and almond flavors — was popular with our group. I was very happy with my Bavarian mint. Palermo roasts its own coffee beans there, too. The place smelled delightful.

Tour guide Maureen Durkin set us loose at Palermo, which was just around the corner from where we’d started. Tour patrons could return to any of the food stops for discount shopping and dining that day or elect to visit interesting local sites — maybe visit historic Mission Buenaventura or the statue of Junipero Serra that stands in front of city hall. The beach is only a few blocks away, too.

It was a fun food adventure in Ventura, an unexpected treat one county west of L.A.

For more information on Ventura Food Tours, call 805-295-8687 or go to www.venturafoodtours.com.

We Olive

294 E. Main St. 805-648-6166

www.ventura.weolive.com

Palermo Coffee & Gelato

321 E. Main St. 805-643-3070

www.palermoventura.com

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Germany celebrates Bach, Strauss and Mendelssohn’s legacies

Although they never met, these three German composers changed the musical world. 2014 marks the 300th birthday of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, 150th birthday of Richard Strauss and the 205th birthday of Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy.

Born in 1714, Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, son of Johann Sebastian Bach, was an influential composer during the time between the Baroque and Classic movements. Having developed his very own style known as “empfindsamer Stil” or sensitive style, he was well-regarded amongst his peers.  CPE Bach’s musical works include chamber music, piano sonatas, symphonies, as well as spiritual and secular pieces. http://www.cpebach.de

This year marks the 300th birthday of CPE Bach and it will be celebrated all over Germany. From Hamburg to Potsdam, Berlin to Frankfurt Oder, Leipzig to Weimar – all of these cities influenced Bach’s life thus his music. Concerts, exhibitions and readings are planned during the year to celebrate this musical genius.

Another musical influencer was born in 1864 in Munich: Richard Strauss. He is known as a master of modern instrumentation and innovative tone colors. After stops in Munich and Berlin, Strauss moved to Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Southern Bavaria. Today, the town honors its most famous resident with the annual Strauss Festival (June 11-19, 2014). Orchestra and chamber concerts, lieder evenings or choral concerts – visitors can expect a variety of Strauss’ works to be played. The composer earned his international recognition with operas such as ‘Salome and Elektra’ as well as symphonic poems like ‘Also sprach Zarathustra’.http://www.richard-strauss-festival.de/rsi/index.php/en/

Being called a musical prodigy can be a burden, but Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy made the best out of it. Born in 1809, during the early Romantic period, Mendelssohn wrote symphonies, concerti, oratorios, piano music and chamber music. His best known work might be ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’. At the age of 26, Mendelssohn Bartholdy settled in Leipzig working with the city orchestra, the opera house and the Choir of St. Thomas Church.

On February 3, 2014, the 205th anniversary of his birth, the extended Mendelssohn House in Leipzig reopened. With a total size of 9,700 square feet it exhibits his life and achievements. Among the attractions is a so-called “Effektorium” – a unique, digital conductor‘s podium to conduct a virtual orchestra.http://www.mendelssohn-stiftung.de/r-home-en.html

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Disney Cruise Line explores Alaska this summer

During 2014 Alaska sailings, Disney Cruise Line will explore the grandeur of America’s 49th state with a wide variety of fun and exciting Port Adventures.

In preparation for the three-month season of Alaska cruises, Disney Cruise Line worked with local tour operators to create family-friendly excursions that entertain and inspire both children and adults amid Alaska’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Guests enjoy a hassle-free and fun-filled way to experience Alaska’s breathtaking vistas, native wildlife and the history and customs of native cultures. After each day’s adventures ashore, everyone returns to the comfort and amenities of the Disney Wonder.

Con’t: Port Adventures Immerse Disney Cruise Line Guests in Splendor and Culture of Alaska during 2014 Season…

For more information about Disney cruises to Alaska, follow the dedicated video series: A Mom’s Take on Sailing Alaska with Disney. This series features a real mom sharing her experiences and expertise on topics such as different ports and what they offer, what to pack, and what activities are available for children, adults and families.

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