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Books of the Month: March 2026

March 1, 2026 By Leave a Comment

An intensely brave, gorgeously written story about a gay Muslim teen who has to choose between being true to himself or his faith—and his realization that maybe they aren’t as separate as he thought.

Now a senior at the top-ranked high school for Muslim teenagers, Pakistani Canadian Ramin can’t wait for the fresh start of college. He’s spent his whole life following the word of Allah, his parents, and his imam. His parents immigrated from Pakistan, sacrificing everything for him and his little brother, and expect Ramin to be halal in all things, meet a nice Muslim girl, and settle into devout family life. However, Ramin’s heart wishes for something—or someone—else: the strong, athletic captain of the soccer team. But at school, being gay is definitely haram, not allowed, so Ramin limits himself to dreams of moving away to New York City.

Then Ramin learns his graduation is in jeopardy, and the only chance he’s given to get the needed physical education credits quickly is to join the school’s soccer team…and train one-on-one with Fahad, a.k.a. Captain Handsome. It’s a nightmare of temptation and resistance, compounded by threats from a longtime bully who is blackmailing Ramin, threatening to reveal a secret that could ruin him. Ramin’s only ray of light is Omar, a sweet and caring new friend whose family believes in a different, kinder Allah. He gently prods Ramin to consider his faith more deeply, challenging Ramin’s long held belief of Allah as merciless and unforgiving by introducing him to one who is instead merciful and loving.

With graduation, a championship soccer match, and the blackmail looming, the pressure on Ramin is too much to keep buried. He must decide between the consequences of speaking his truth and living a lie. He must decide which Allah lives in the little mosque in his heart.

I enjoyed this book and highly recommend it!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Ahmad Saber is a medical doctor specializing in rheumatology and internal medicine. Born and raised in Pakistan, Ahmad and his family moved to Canada while he was in high school. Ramin Abbas Has MAJOR Questions is his debut novel and based in part on his own life. You can find him on Instagram @ItsAhmadSaber.

LOOPS by Jashar Awan
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers | 3/3/2026 | 9781665974943 | Ages 4-8

This big kid is wearing his first pair of big-kid shoes, the kind with laces! Even though they’re a little on the roomy side—shoes to grow into, of course—he knows he can take care of them. Except they keep falling off! Not to worry, he’ll just tie them up again, because he knows how to tie those loops! But wait a second, where did that darn shoe go? Nothing is ever truly easy when you’re just starting something new; but, just like with any stage in childhood, whether it’s making your first steps, or going down the really big slide, with persistence, doing anything scary or overwhelming quickly becomes a piece of cake! And before you know it, you’re a BIG KID!

About the author-illustrator: Author-illustrator Jashar Awan won a Caldecott Honor for his picture book Every Monday Mabel. Growing up outside of Washington, DC, Jashar loved drawing and reading. In fact, he still does. For many years, he drew illustrations for publications such as The New Yorker, The New York Times, American Medical News, and Columbia Journalism Review. Jashar made his debut as an author-illustrator with What a Lucky Day!. Publishers Weekly spotlighted him as one of the most promising children’s debut authors of fall 2020. His book Only Ants for Andy was selected for the 2023 and 2024 Choose to Read Ohio booklist. Jashar is also the creator of Strum & Drum: A Merry Little Quest, I’m Going to Build a Snowman, Every Monday Mabel, and Loops. He lives in Ohio with his wife, Emily, and their son, Maxwell, who loves drawing and reading, too.

Also look for this one! (See below)

Middle School age kids will love this one!

THE SPIDER STRIKES by Michael P. Spradlin 

Amid the chilling rise of Hitler’s Germany, a twelve-year-old boy and his friends confront rising Nazi threats during a family trip to Austria in this third book in the action-packed middle grade series Web of the Spider for fans of I Survived and A Night Divided.

It is engaging and definitely action-packed!

Self Disclosure: I received free copies of the above books to feature. Cover images were also provided.

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Aquarium releases Porkchop, a rescued sea turtle, after nearly one year of rehabilitation

March 1, 2026 By Leave a Comment
Porkchop, a rescued green sea turtle is released into the San Gabriel River after nearly a year of rehabilitation and medical care at Aquarium of the Pacific on Friday, February 27, 2026 in Long Beach, California. Photo Credit:  Robin Riggs.

After receiving nearly one year of rehabilitation and medical care at the Aquarium of the Pacific, a rescued green sea turtle has made its way back into the wild. Aquarium staff released the sea turtle along the San Gabriel River because of the proximity to a resident green sea turtle population. When the turtle was initially rescued in March of 2025, it was in a life-threatening condition and transferred to the Aquarium of the Pacific for medical evaluation and care because of the Aquarium’s expertise in treating and releasing stranded and injured sea turtles.

Aquarium staff rescued the subadult green sea turtle in the San Gabriel River on March 5, 2025, thanks to a partnership and permit with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service’s (NMFS) West Coast Region. This rescue occurred during the Aquarium of the Pacific’s Southern California Sea Turtle Monitoring community science program, where Aquarium volunteers gather weekly and monthly field data on the green sea turtles seen in the San Gabriel River. Volunteers observed that the turtle was stuck in the same location in the river because of a fishing line tangled in debris that was wrapped around its flipper that prevented it from swimming away. They continued to watch over the turtle to ensure a successful rescue by Aquarium staff.

The turtle arrived at the Aquarium with 90 percent of a front flipper dead from no blood circulation, which was caused by a severe monofilament fishing line constriction injury. X-rays showed that the turtle also had a fishing hook lodged in the back of its mouth. The Aquarium’s veterinary staff were able to successfully remove the hook from its throat and the dead part of the flipper through surgery. Animal care staff then continued to tend to the turtle’s wounds and continually monitored its progress. “When this turtle first arrived, we did not know what the outcome would be because of its critical condition. We are thrilled that this turtle was able to heal and gain its strength, so much so that it was able to return home,” said Dr. Brittany Stevens, Aquarium of the Pacific veterinarian.

The Aquarium of the Pacific also opened its new sea turtle rehabilitation area on January 28, 2026. It received a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation with support from NOAA, as well as contributions from the Molina Family Foundation and the KM Shimano Family Foundation to construct this new area near its Molina Animal Care Center. The new space includes an approximately 4,000-gallon rehabilitation pool to accommodate rescued sea turtles found in Los Angeles County and beyond and an audio-visual display where visitors can learn more about these efforts. The new space doubles the non-profit’s capacity for caring for future stranded, sick, or injured sea turtles, so they have a chance to heal and return to their natural habitats. Porkchop was the first rescued sea turtle to use the new rehabilitation area at the Aquarium of the Pacific before being released. The public is invited to help the Aquarium answer the call of turtles in need with a donation to the Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Program. One rescue is never the last. The Aquarium is raising $50,000 to help its response, expert medical care, and rehabilitation for injured turtles that come to its organization.

Porkchop, a rescued green sea turtle is released into the San Gabriel River after nearly a year of rehabilitation and medical care at Aquarium of the Pacific on Friday, February 27, 2026 in Long Beach, California. Photo Credit: Robin Riggs.

The Aquarium of the Pacific has rehabilitated and released rescued sea turtles since 2000. Some have been fitted with satellite tracking devices that allowed scientists to gather data about their migration patterns and habitats. The Aquarium recently rehabilitated and released a green sea turtle in September 2025 and is currently caring for an over 200-pound green sea turtle (rescued in January 2026) with the goal of release to the wild. All species of sea turtles found in waters of the United States are listed as either endangered or threatened and are protected by the Endangered Species Act. If you see a stranded sea turtle in the San Gabriel River or elsewhere, please call the West Coast Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Network’s 24/7 hotline at 562-506-4315.

Credit: The Aquarium of the Pacific.

Filed Under: Featured Content, SoCal City Kids News

OC Parks March Featured Programs & Events

March 1, 2026 By Leave a Comment


MARCH 2026 FEATURED EVENTS

March 3, 11 & 31 – Spring Fling Preschool Program

10:15 – 11:15 a.m. | OC Zoo at Irvine Regional Park

This program is for ages 3 to 4 only. Class includes hands-on learning, fun crafts and meeting zoo creatures up close! Cost is $5 per child (one parent included). Parent or guardian must accompany their child for the entire program. Parking is $3 per vehicle. Phone registration is required.

Registration: Call (714) 973-6846

March 4 – Adaptation Spotlight: Seed Dispersal

3 – 4:30 p.m. | Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

Join OC Parks naturalists and explore the different ways seed spread in nature! We will test several dispersal methods, take a short walk and plant a seed to take home. This program is designed for ages 7 and older. Minors must be accompanied by a guardian. The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle. Advance registration is required.

Registration: ocparks.com/events

March 5 – Biking the Bay

8 – 10:30 a.m. | Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve 

Join OC Parks for an interpretive bike ride around Upper Newport Bay! Participants will have the opportunity to raise their heart rate and pedal around the bay while learning about local ecology and history. This moderately-paced ride will cover a 10-mile section of the Back Bay Loop Trail over the course of 2.5 hours with approximately 155 feet of elevation gain. Participants will stay on the paved portion of the trail and make interpretive stops along the way. This program will begin and end at the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center. Participants must provide their own bike and helmet. Minors must have a guardian present at all times. The program and parking are free. Advance registration is required.

Registration: letsgooutside.org/activities

March 6, 20 & 27 – Wild Tales

10 – 11 a.m. | Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve

Spending time outside is one of the best ways to nurture curiosity and instill a

love of the natural world. Wild Tales includes a story time, age-appropriate hike

and themed craft. Each week will focus on a different topic that encourages

young ones to learn about the outdoors. The program begins at the Peter and

Mary Muth Interpretive Center. Program content is tailored for ages 2 to 5, but all

are welcome to attend. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian.

Please wear comfortable attire and closed-toe shoes. The program and parking

are free. Advance registration is required.

Registration: letsgooutside.org/activities

March 7 – Keep it Wild 

9 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park

Join OC Parks and Laguna Canyon Foundation at Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park as participants learn and work together to create a healthier habitat for the native plants and wildlife that call Aliso Creek home. Volunteers will assist with various stewardship activities including removing non-native plants, cleaning up the creek or planting native plants. No experience is necessary and all tools will be provided. Please wear long pants, closed-toe shoes and sun protection, and bring water. Participants must be 16 or older. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Advance registration is required.

Registration: ocparks.com/events

March 7 – Nature Scavenger Hunt: A Family-Friendly Event

9:30 a.m. – 12:30 pm. | Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve

Join OC Parks staff and volunteers for a nature scavenger hunt that’s fun for all ages! Participants will find a series of interpretive tables and posts that are “hidden” along the trails near the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center. There will be hands-on education activities and prizes available for those who complete the scavenger hunt. The program is designed for ages 7 to 12, but all are welcome. The program and parking are free. Advance registration is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome.

Registration: letsgooutside.org/activities

March 7 – Parks After Dark: Peters Canyon

6:30 – 8:30 p.m. | Peters Canyon Regional Park

Explore Peters Canyon Regional Park in search of nighttime critters that call the park home. From humble toads to graceful owls, you never know what you’ll see! The program will begin outside the park office near the flagpole. Layers, sturdy footwear and water are recommended. Red-tinted flashlights are highly encouraged. Minors must be accompanied by a guardian during the program. The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle. Advance registration required. 

Registration: letsgooutside.org/activities

March 13 – Jr. Ranger Adventure: Aliso and Wood Canyons

3:30 – 4:30 p.m. | Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park

The OC Parks Jr. Ranger Program encourages park guests to explore the outdoor world within OC Parks by developing a sense of belonging, becoming a part of nature and feeling empowered to be stewards of Orange County’s natural and cultural resources. Participants will explore Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, complete activities and take the OC Parks Jr. Ranger Oath to earn a unique Jr. Ranger badge. This program is designed for ages 7 to 12, but all are welcome. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the program. Sunscreen, sturdy footwear and water are recommended. Advance registration required.
Registration: ocparks.com/events

March 14 – Second Saturday Restoration: Habitat Adventure Trail

7:30 – 9:30 a.m. | Irvine Regional Park

Join us at Irvine Regional Park to lend a hand restoring the Habitat Adventure Trail by removing invasive species, cleaning up excess debris, trimming large shrubs and preparing the area for new plantings of native species. General purpose gardening gloves and long pants are recommended, and tools and gloves will be available on-site. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen and snacks. The program will begin at the Habitat Adventure Trail trailhead near parking lot G. The program and parking are free for volunteers. Advance registration required. 

Registration: letsgooutside.org/activities

March 14 – Native Garden Restoration at Clark Park

8 – 10 a.m. | Ralph B. Clark Regional Park

Learn about native, introduced and invasive plants and join us as we work toward restoring healthy habitat areas at Clark Regional Park by managing and expanding the garden as conditions permit. Experience the satisfaction of weeding invasive plants and observing our local biodiversity as it grows!

The program will begin in parking lot H and the activity will take place within a quarter mile of the parking lot. No experience is necessary, and all tools will be provided. Be prepared to remove weeds using hand tools or spread mulch. Long sleeves and pants, closed-toe shoes, sun protection and water are recommended. Minors 16 and younger must be accompanied by a guardian. The program is free and parking is $5 per vehicle. Registration is encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome.

Registration: letsgooutside.org/activities

March 14 – Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

8 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Explore 6 miles of trails at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness through this self-guided opportunity. Located within OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, the area provides trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Two lookout points offer sweeping views of the surrounding canyons and unique prehistoric rock formations. Multiple loop options that vary in distance and range from easy to moderate in difficulty are available for self-guided exploration. Access is first-come, first-served until parking capacity is reached. No registration required.

More information: letsgooutside.org/activities

March 14 – Wonderful Wildflowers Hike 

2 – 4 p.m. | Peters Canyon Regional Park

The winter rain has lifted and revealed a beautiful bouquet of California wildflowers. Join us for a slow-paced, moderate climb along the North Loop Trail and be rewarded with scenic views of the Peters Canyon Reservoir and surrounding area. Along the way, participants will peruse the petals of blooms currently sprouting along with some year-round favorites. This program will begin in front of the park office near the restrooms and flagpole. The hike will travel about 2 miles with some elevation gain. Be prepared to hike steep hills. Sun protection, sturdy footwear and plenty of water are recommended. The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the program and strollers are not recommended. Advance registration is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome.
Registration: letsgooutside.org/activities

March 14 – Starr Party

7 – 9:30 p.m. | Caspers Wilderness Park

Embark on a journey through the stars at our Starr Party! For more than 25 years, Caspers Wilderness Park has been a hub for stargazing, earning California’s first “Star Park” designation in 2013. Join us outdoors for the Starr Party, where telescopes and expert guidance will help you explore the night sky until approximately 9:30 p.m. The program features interactive activities, perfect for families and space enthusiasts of all ages. Equipment will be provided but feel free to bring binoculars, telescopes or cameras. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. All activities will take place at the nature center. The program is free and parking is $5 per vehicle. Advance registration is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome.

Registration: letsgooutside.org/activities

March 18 – Lakeside Bird Walk

7:30 – 9:30 a.m. | Irvine Regional Park

Join an experienced OC Parks volunteer and stroll through Irvine Regional Park searching high in the trees for flittering friends and low in the scrubs for bouncing birds. Bring your binoculars, sun protection, comfortable shoes and an eye for spotting birds! This walk begins outside the nature center, near parking lot T. The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle. Registration is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome.

Registration: letsgooutside.org/activities

March 19 – Preschool Paleontology: Art and Storytime

10 – 11 a.m. | Ralph B. Clark Regional Park

Enjoy a morning at Clark Regional Park and learn about ancient sea life preserved as fossils in Orange County! Participants will visit the Interpretive Center, listen to a story, take a short walk in the park and make a craft. Activities are designed for ages 2 to 6 but all are welcome. Participants will meet in front of the Interpretive Center. Minors 16 and younger must be accompanied by a guardian. The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle. Advance registration is required. Space is limited; parents must register themselves and each child.

Registration: letsgooutside.org/activities

March 20 – Tot Walk

9 – 10:30 a.m. | Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park

Join OC Parks naturalists and bring your young ones to explore Aliso’s wild backyard. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden and creek where we will see bugs, plants and birds while exploring! This program begins at the visitor center. Please wear closed-toe shoes and bring snacks and water. Please note most of the trail is not stroller-friendly. The program is designed for ages 3 and younger, but all are welcome. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle. Advance registration is required.

Registration: ocparks.com/events

March 20 – Nature Creativity: Mini Terrariums

9 – 11:30 a.m. | Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

Join OC Parks naturalists as we explore the different ways plants spread seeds and reproduce while making a miniature plant terrarium to take home. This program is designed for ages 12 and older. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle. Advance registration is required.

Registration: ocparks.com/events

March 20 – Spring Equinox Hike

2 – 4 p.m. | Santiago Oaks Regional Park

Celebrate the arrival of spring by joining experienced OC Parks staff as we hike along the scenic hillsides of Weir Canyon within Santiago Oaks Regional Park. Be prepared to hike more than 2 miles with moderate elevation gain. This program is not recommended for small children. Minors 16 years and younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the program and strollers are not recommended. Sturdy shoes and water are recommended.The program and parking are free. Limited street parking is available nearby.Advance registration is required.

Registration: letsgooutside.org/activities

March 21 – Wilderness Access Day: Red Rock Wilderness

8 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Red Rock Wilderness

Come explore OC Parks’ newest trails at Red Rock Wilderness through this self-guided opportunity. Located within OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, Red Rock Wilderness features more than 8 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding along with a scenic overlook that offers 360-degree views of the nearby iconic red rocks, Black Star Canyon Wilderness, Irvine Lake, Santiago Canyon and beyond. 3 miles of multi-use trails within Loma Ridge Nature Preserve, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, will also be accessible for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Advance registration is required.

Registration: letsgooutside.org/activities

March 27 – Phone Photo Friday

9 – 11 a.m. | Irvine Regional Park

The best camera is the one you have with you, and for most, it’s also your cell phone! Join us for a beginner’s program and learn how to take great photos with your cell phone. Each session will cover photography theory basics, phone camera settings and editing techniques, with time to practice in the park. The program will begin outside the nature center. Be prepared to hike around and explore the landscape at your leisure. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the program and strollers are not recommended. Sun protection, sturdy footwear and water are encouraged. Most importantly, don’t forget your phone! The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle. Advance registration is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome.
Registration: letsgooutside.org/activities

March 27 – Jr. Ranger Adventure: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

3 – 4:30 p.m. | Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

The OC Parks Jr. Ranger Program encourages park guests to explore the outdoor world within OC Parks by developing a sense of belonging, becoming a part of nature and feeling empowered to be stewards of Orange County’s natural and cultural resources. Participants will explore Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, complete activities and take the OC Parks Jr. Ranger Oath to earn a unique Jr. Ranger badge. This program is designed for ages 7 to 12, but all are welcome. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the program. Sunscreen, sturdy footwear and water are recommended. Advance registration required.
Registration: ocparks.com/events

March 27 – Jr. Ranger Adventure: Clark Regional Park

3:30 – 5 p.m. | Ralph B. Clark Regional Park

The OC Parks Jr. Ranger Program encourages park guests to explore the outdoor world within OC Parks by developing a sense of belonging, becoming a part of nature and feeling empowered to be stewards of Orange County’s natural and cultural resources. Participants will explore Clark Regional Park, complete activities and take the OC Parks Jr. Ranger Oath to earn a unique Jr. Ranger badge. Participants will meet in front of the Interpretive Center and take a half-mile walk through geologic time. This program is designed for ages 7 to 12, but all are welcome. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the program. Sunscreen, sturdy footwear and water are recommended. The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle. Inclement weather will cancel the program. Advance registration is required.
Registration: letsgooutside.org/activities

March 28 – Jr. Ranger Adventure: Mile Square Regional Park

10 – 11:30 a.m. | Mile Square Regional Park

The OC Parks Jr. Ranger Program encourages park guests to explore the outdoor world within OC Parks by developing a sense of belonging, becoming a part of nature and feeling empowered to be stewards of Orange County’s natural and cultural resources. Participants will explore Mile Square Regional Park, complete activities and take the OC Parks Jr. Ranger Oath to earn a unique Jr. Ranger badge. This program is designed for ages 7 to 12, but all are welcome. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the program. Sunscreen, sturdy footwear and water are recommended. The program is free and parking is $5 per vehicle. Inclement weather will cancel the program. Advance registration is required.
Registration: letsgooutside.org/activities Visit ocparks.com/events to view the entire calendar of upcoming programs and activities.

Credit: OC Parks.

Filed Under: Featured Events

Springtime in The Inlands: Route 66 Centennial, Superblooms and Local Culture

March 1, 2026 By Leave a Comment
Photo by Diamond Valley Marina.

As spring returns to The Inlands, the region is transforming into a premier destination for road-trippers, nature lovers and culture seekers. From the historic 100th anniversary of Route 66 to the vibrant peaks of the San Bernardino Mountains, spring 2026 offers a rare blend of nostalgia and adventure.

100 Years on the Mother Road

This year marks the 100th anniversary of Route 66. As the heart of the “Mother Road,” The Inlands invites travelers to cruise iconic stretches, dine at vintage roadside eateries and attend special centennial events honoring a century of American car culture. Any Route 66 journey must begin in Needles, recognized as the first California city travelers reach when crossing the Colorado River from the east. Visitors can explore the historic El Garces Harvey House, a neoclassical landmark that once catered to early transcontinental travelers or visit the Needles Regional Museum to see artifacts from the road’s golden era. Continue the journey to the Route 66 Museum in Victorville to learn more about the iconic route’s rich history and cultural significance or snag a selfie with the VW Love Bus. 

Nature’s Greatest Show: The Superbloom

With mild weather fueling the landscape, the region is bracing for a spectacular wildflower season. Top spots for “bloom-chasing” include:

  • Chino Hills State Park & Walker Canyon: Famous for rolling hills of gold and orange.
  • Diamond Valley Lake: Known for diverse wildflower carpets and lakeside hiking.
  • High-Altitude Blooms: Oak Glen Preserve and Big Bear’s North Baldwin Lake offer late-spring alpine floral displays.

A Season of Can’t-Miss Events

The Inlands’ spring calendar is packed with outdoor activity and community celebrations:

  • ONT Field Baseball: Spring 2026 marks the highly-anticipated opening of the brand-new ONT Field Stadium in Ontario. Catch the Ontario Tower Buzzers (the Single-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers) as they take the field for their inaugural season beginning in early April.
  • Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival: Watch the skies fill with color over wine country in June (early morning launches and evening “glows”).
  • Local Arts & Culture: Riverside Art Market (April 11), Redlands Festival of Arts (May 23-24) and Riverside’s Inland Empire Pride Festival (May 30).

From mountains to valleys, vineyards to historic highways, The Inlands offers a springtime playground for explorers of all ages. With events like the Temecula Hot Air Balloon Festival and the Route 66 Centennial, this season is the perfect time to discover the vibrant spirit of the region. 

For more information and to stay up to date on upcoming events and attractions, visit theinlands.com and follow @theinlands on Instagram.

Filed Under: Featured Events

March Is Mermaid Month at Ventura Harbor Village 

March 1, 2026 By Leave a Comment

Make waves this March with Mermaid Month at Ventura Harbor Village with two fun-filled days of seaside adventure on Saturdays March 7 and 21, perfect for mermaid fans of all ages. Enjoy ocean-inspired festivities, special events, a nod to pirates, and themed treats.  Grab mer-mazing mermaid merchandise from Ventura Harbor Village shops, take a photo at the mermaid shell photo opp and participate in a fun kids’ mermaid scavenger hunt all month long. From lively entertainment and fresh seafood, to fish ice cream cones and hands-on activities, there’s something for every mermaid, pirate, and ocean lover. 

Saturday, March 7 – Kick Off Celebration for Mermaid Month

Noon- 3 PM at Ventura Harbor Village

Waterfront Mermaid Meet & Greets, Mermaid DJ Dance Party, Mermaid Crafts & Vendors, Swim with a Mermaid, Steel Drum & Ukuleles, Bubble Shows, Live Music & More!

Saturday, March 21 –A Celebration of Mermaids & Pirates

Noon- 3 PM at Ventura Harbor Village

Waterfront Mermaid Meet & Greets, Mermaid DJ Dance Party, Photos with Pirates, Bubble Shows, Swim with a Mermaid, Steel Drum & Ukuleles, Mermaid Crafts & Vendors, Live Music & More!

Visit https://www.venturaharborvillage.com events calendar for more Mermaid Month specific event highlights, specials, and updates.  Free event admission. 

Credit: Ventura Harbor Village.

Filed Under: Featured Events

St. Paddy’s Day Street Party + Outdoor Bar on Third Street Promenade (March 14)

March 1, 2026 By Leave a Comment
Courtesy of Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. 

 Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. is celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Irish spirit with St. Paddy’s Day on the Promenade, a lively evening of live music, games, photo ops and festive fun on the iconic Third Street Promenade. 

Taking place on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m., the free event will transform the 1300 block of Third Street Promenade (south side) into a high-energy gathering spot for friends and pub-hoppers – marking the evolution of the Promenade under Santa Monica’s new Entertainment Zone, a city-approved initiative designed to support outdoor drinking, activate nightlife programming, boost foot traffic and drive economic activity for local businesses. Guests can RSVP for St. Paddy’s Day on the Promenade at Eventbrite.com/e/St-Paddys-Day-Celebration-on-the-Promenade-Tickets.

The celebration will feature three hours of live Irish and popular music by Shamrock Sean and the Irish Cabbage Band, along with a themed photo booth, interactive lawn and table games, festive giveaways and on-stage trivia throughout the night. The event coincides with the Santa Monica St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl, highlighting local bars and inviting attendees to continue the celebration throughout Downtown Santa Monica. Pub crawl tickets will be available at crawlwith.us/santamonica/stpattys.

Event Highlights Include:

  • Live Music: Shamrock Sean and the Irish Cabbage Band
  • Themed Photo Ops
  • Outdoor Games
  • Table Games
  • Festive Giveaways
  • Stage Trivia & Games 
  • Outdoor Bar

With vibrant decor, overhead flags, stage signage and interactive installations throughout the block, St. Paddy’s Day on the Promenade promises a spirited night of music, movement and community in the heart of Downtown Santa Monica.

For event updates, schedules and behind-the-scenes previews, please visit DowntownSM.com or follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @DTSantaMonica, as well as TikTok at @DowntownSantaMonica.

Credit: Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. (DTSM, Inc.)

Filed Under: Featured Events

RJ, Feb. 27 Pet of the Week

March 1, 2026 By Leave a Comment
AWWWWWWWW!

Want a challenge? We present RJ, a glossy, black kitten. He had been adopted previously but became ill in his new home, so his owners returned him. The veterinarians found out that he’s FIV-positive, which means that he has a virus that affects his immune system. RJ grew up in an isolation ward at Long Beach Animal Care Services without much interaction or socialization, but he’s fine now. However, he never learned how to be a kitten~ The volunteers are working patiently and lovingly with RJ. and we know he really, really wants to be a good boy! RJ would be great as a solo cat—FIV can be transferred through a bite, but FIV-positive cats can live full lives if their symptoms are managed. RJ’s only 9 months old—he deserves to live the rest of his good life in a loving home. To adopt or foster RJ, email PetAdopt@longbeach.gov to speed the process, or call (562) 570-7387. Better yet, pay a personal visit to our shelter, 7700 E. Spring St., Long Beach (at entrance to El Dorado Park, no parking fee for shelter guests). Ask for ID#A745252.

(This rescue encouraged by the usual suspects.)

Filed Under: Featured Content, Pet Corner

GOAT * Fast-Paced Action, Innovative Animation, Strong Storyline Plus Stephen Curry

March 1, 2026 By Leave a Comment

A small goat with big dreams gets a once-in-a-lifetime shot to join the pros and play roarball, a high-intensity, co-ed, full-contact sport dominated by the fastest, fiercest animals in the world.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Braedyn M. comments, “GOAT is the absolute, well, G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time)!  Fast paced action, innovative animation styles, a strong and relatable storyline, plus basketball Easter eggs and nods galore, all work together to create a film that proves once and for all that anyone can dream big.” Kennedy P. adds, “The new animated film Goat comes out of the gate strong and never misses a shot. The film delivers high energy, heart, and style. I love how confidently Goat blends sports excitement with emotional storytelling.” Julie O. wraps it up with, “The film’s messages include follow your dreams, never give-up, and embrace the qualities that make us unique. There are also messages about the importance of family and friends and a reminder that there is so much more to every individual than what we see on the surface.” See their full reviews below.     

GOAT
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

GOAT is the absolute, well, G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time)!  Fast paced action, innovative animation styles, a strong and relatable storyline, plus basketball Easter eggs and nods galore, all work together to create a film that proves once and for all that anyone can dream big.   

Will Harris (Caleb McLaughlin) is one of the best Roarball players in the town of Vineland, and he pursues the dream of one day joining the big leagues to play for his hometown team, the Thorns. There is just one… small problem. Will is a goat, and no animal his size has ever even attempted to set foot on the court. But that’s all about to change. When Will gets the golden opportunity he’s been waiting for to join the team, he jumps at the chance. Unfortunately his towering teammates aren’t exactly stoked that he’s joining their ranks. However, with a little work, Will is determined to win over his team and show the world that “smalls can ball!”

What set this film apart from others is the level of authenticity and attention to detail that it provides. I had the opportunity to go onsite at Sony Pictures Animation and meet some of the creatives that worked on this film. From John Clark, GOAT’s head of cinematography, and Keely Propp, the head of story, I discovered that many of the Roarball play sequences were inspired by actual basketball plays used by the Golden State Warriors. The moves were modeled like a game of chess using 3D printed incarnations of the characters before being animated. Speaking of the animation, the style is unique and very fast, with camera angles that zoom right into the middle of the action. It felt like I was on the court with the team! The storyline is one that I am able to appreciate, with Will giving his all to make his mother, Louise Harris (Jennifer Hudson) proud. The other members of the Thorns, Jett Fillmore (Gabrielle Union), Modo Olachenko (Nick Kroll), Olivia Burke (Nicola Coughlan), Archie Everhardt (David Harbour), and Lenny Williamson (Stephen Curry) have unusual chemistry, and Will’s small-town personality clashing with their big-league personas is a great source of humor. Jett has been Will’s hero since forever and, though things start off rocky between them, they soon learn to trust each other, and work together with the team.

This film’s message is that no one is too small to dream big. Though Will might be the smallest player in all of Roarball history, he doesn’t let that stop him from bringing his team together, and becoming the G.O.A.T.

I give GOAT 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on February 13, 2025.

GOAT
By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

The new animated film Goat comes out of the gate strong and never misses a shot. The film delivers high energy, heart, and style. I love how confidently Goat blends sports excitement with emotional storytelling. It’s the kind of movie that had me cheering from the get go, laughing on the sidelines, and fully invested in every play.

Goat is an animated sports comedy following Will, a small underdog goat with big dreams to play “roarball,” a high-intensity, full-contact sport dominated by large animals. Produced with Stephen Curry, the film follows Will’s journey to prove that “smalls can ball” in a story inspired by overcoming odds. 

Set against a sports-driven backdrop, the story centers on perseverance, teamwork, and finding your inner strength when it matters most. As the pressure builds and challenges mount, the journey becomes less about winning the game and more about discovering what it truly means to have heart. The characters are dynamic, relatable, and full of personality, each bringing their own strengths to the court. The music is phenomenal, perfectly amplifying the emotion and adrenaline of every major moment. The bold animation style, vibrant colors, and eye-popping visuals are truly a feast for the eyes, every frame feels alive and in motion. Combined with a sports-driven storyline, nonstop visual creativity and an all-star voice cast, which includes Stephen Curry as the voice of Lenny, a giraffe, Gabrielle Union, who voices Jett, a black panther, and Caleb McLaughlin, who voices Will, a goat. Goat plays like a fast break straight to the hoop, keeping audiences engaged and energized the entire time. It is truly an animated slam dunk that proves Sony Animation is still playing at an elite level. With its uplifting themes and emotional payoff, Goat proves that when you trust your game and keep pushing forward, anything is possible.

Goat delivers a powerful message about self-confidence, resilience, and never giving up, even when you miss a few shots along the way. It reminds viewers that greatness isn’t just about talent, but about heart, determination, and believing in yourself when it counts.

I give Goat 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults.  So lace up your sneakers and sprint to the theaters to watch it on Friday, February 13, 2026.

GOAT
By Julie O, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I love this film! GOAT is a fun filled, humorous, inspirational animated story that made me feel happy throughout the film. I found myself laughing and being drawn into the plot and caring about each character’s storyline.

GOAT is about a young goat, Will (Caleb McLaughlin) who dreams of playing professional Roarball. He works hard and trains until one day his wish comes true. However, he has a lot to learn about being on a team, believing in yourself, and never giving up. His teammates, Jett (Gabrielle Union), Lenny (Stephen Curry), Olivia (Nicola Coughlan), Archie (David Harbour) and Modo (Nick Kroll) are along for the journey with their own challenges.

This is one of those films that is a feast for your eyes. The background animation looks like it comes from a story book and every scene is filled to the brim with details. The film also includes camera angles that make it feel like you are there in the story instead of feeling like you are watching from the audience. There are so many details that I plan to watch this film again to see what I missed the first time. It excels in incorporating modern trends and music. I love the creativity that went into making each stadium where Roarball is played.  I really like how each character is developed with anthropomorphic behaviors unique to each character. My favorite part is when Will takes Jett to the diner where he and his mom used to work at so she can meet some of her most loyal fans.

The film’s messages include follow your dreams, never give-up, and embrace the qualities that make us unique. There are also messages about the importance of family and friends and a reminder that there is so much more to every individual than what we see on the surface. I also like that this film demonstrates taking ownership and responsibility for your actions.

I give GOAT 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. GOAT releases in cinemas February 13, 2026.

Trailer:

Filed Under: Media Reviews