CM #50:
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Each week we bring you 6+ things that have to do with drinking, eating, and checking out in California. Thanks & Enjoy your read!
Be Well! Stay Safe!
Mark & Patti
1. Rolling Under the Stars
by Michele McPhee, LA Mag
After every long and fulfilling hike in some beautiful among the giant trees that frame Moro Rock in Sequoia, stroll the Panorama Trail to take in the Yosemite waterfalls or stand mesmerized at Angel’s Landing peak in Zion, I am invigorated with a new resolve. THIS YEAR I WILL GO CAMPING. I’ve even made the trek to explore buying camping gear from impossibly beautiful people who were born with an athletic gene that makes every sport effortless for them, DNA that I was not privy to. The tents look every bit as complicated as a piece of IKEA furniture. I can’t build a fire. And the thought of squatting in the woods with critters? Hard no.
2. You'll Love These 10 Bay Area Fun Facts
by The California.com Team
The Bay Area, a vibrant and diverse region in Northern California, is renowned for its iconic landmarks, technological innovations, and rich history. Whether you're a local or planning your next trip, these 10 fun facts about the Bay Area will surely pique your interest and deepen your appreciation for this remarkable region.
BIRTHPLACE OF THE FORTUNE COOKIE
Contrary to popular belief, the fortune cookie was not invented in China but right here in the Bay Area. Invented by Makoto Hagiwara, a Japanese immigrant in San Francisco, these cookies have become a staple in Chinese restaurants across America.
3. Google Maps misleads Californians into the desert during dust storm
by Olivia Harden, SF Gate
Shelby Easler, her brother Austin and their significant others were headed back to Los Angeles on Nov. 19 when they used Google Maps. Instead of taking the Interstate 15 — the major highway connecting Southern California to Sin City — the app suggested they take an alternate route to avoid the dust storm that caused major Sunday traffic delays.
4. California Legoland announces it will open the theme park's 10th land
by Katie Dowd, SF Gate
Dino Valley, which will open sometime in the spring, features interactive areas, meet-and-greets and two new rides. The two new rides are called Explorer River Quest and Duplo Little Dino Trail; details are scant on the Legoland announcement, but concept art of the river and Jeep-style rides look like more bucolic versions of Universal Studios' "Jurassic Park" thrill rides.
5. 1962 Disneyland attraction finally reopens, and it's full of secret lore
by Julie Tremaine, SF Gate
Maybe you already knew — or maybe you didn’t know — that there’s a secret society at Disneyland. Up until now, there have only been the subtlest of hints, if you knew where to look and what to look for. You might have spotted something that seemed slightly peculiar at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar, or seen a name you didn’t recognize tucked away in a corner of the Jungle Cruise ride queue.Â
6. 'Holidays on The Hill' Brings a Winter Wonderland to Universal City
by Suzy Starling, LA Mag
Angelenos have another reason to be thankful this holiday season.Â
The Hill | Los Angeles, a new and fresh entertainment destination, will open its doors on Dec. 1 with a special month-long "Holidays on The Hill" celebration.Â
The grand debut will take place at the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City from Dec. 7 to 17, offering an outdoor market-style festival with faux snow, delicious treats, activities and games.Â
All month long, guests can also enjoy photos with Santa in his Workshop, indulge in holiday-themed food and drinks at FIVE on The Hill's Jingle Bell Tavern, and savor extended brunch and buffet services at Cafe Sierra with unlimited champagne and lobster.Â