First Ever Suspended Mountain Bike Ride Opens at SkyPark at Santa’s Village

SkyPark at Santa’s Village theme park, today announces the opening of its newest ride and attraction; The B Rail, a first-of-its-kind self-powered single-rider mountain bike suspended above the park on the historic 62-year-old “Bumble Bee Monorail” line. The unique ride is designed to give park guests the feeling of riding an actual bike high above the park  in the San Bernardino Mountains.

“We’re in the business of bringing family and friends together,” says Bill Johnson, the ride’s lead creator and park co-owner. “For the first time in many years, the famous monorail track at Santa’s Village is alive again. As a kid, I worked on the monorail ride, and as a grown-up, I’ve had the honor of re-imagining it and bringing it into this timeline. Like every part of restoring and reimagining this historic theme park, it’s been a lot of work and an absolute dream come true.”

The Park’s History

The Santa’s Village park itself dates back to 1955, (opening six weeks before Disneyland), a charming roadside destination where guests could enjoy fairytale characters and carnival-style rides. The original Bumble Bee Monorail was built in 1961 by American Crane & Hoist, (for $27,000) and was also a test-bed for the larger suspended monorail for the 1964 New York World’s Fair. The original cars were 3 phase electric black and yellow striped bees, with bulging eyes, and also flapping wings, which were later removed for clearance issues.

After four decades, Santa’s Village closed in 1998. The forgotten park sat abandoned for nearly twenty years. This created a lost landscape of theft and vandalism where most, and in some cases, like with the monorail, all of the electrical infrastructure was stolen for its high value of copper. 

In 2014, Bill and Michelle Johnson, a local husband and wife real estate and design team, purchased the park, refurbished everything, added a world-class mountain bike park, and reopened it as SkyPark at Santa’s Village. Since then, the park has drawn in a whole new generation of children and adults, looking for camaraderie and adventure in the mountains.

The B Rail Ride Development

“We wanted to give guests a bee’s eye view of the park,” says Bill Johnson, Co-Owner of the park and General Manager. “We knew the days of high powered electric rides were futile and a self powered coaster style ride is what the Park needed.  “The B Rail” rolls high above the park as if you are flying on a bicycle. And there isn’t much to separate them from the feeling of actual flight. It’s a very open ride that’s unlike anything else out there. You pedal the ride and are able to choose your level of speed, just like riding a bike.”

“When we bought the park, we knew we had to keep the original monorail track,” says Bill. “It was an iconic part of the park’s identity, plus, it was still in good condition and we wanted to make something special with the ride infrastructure.” Bill developed the ride with a long time friend Mat Caracaburu, who runs a successful fabrication business Milling and Turning Tech. And, eventually sources out the reproduction and detail design work to Carter Read at CJ Read Engineering. “Even though it’s pedal powered, we consider this a thrill-ride as you control the speed at 40 feet above the ground. There’s no ride car to encase you, and you really do feel like you’re flying on a bicycle. There will also be a timed lap component, coming soon, so you can “race” your friends and your own best time.”

“The monorail bike component  is hand built by Fat Chance Bicycles, as well as a group of industry folks, including KS Suspension, who wanted to help bring an eco-concept to the thrill ride/themed park industry. The ride has been thoroughly tested and adapted to enhance public safety and approved by the Department of Industrial Relations, like other rollercoasters or other amusement rides found at California theme parks.”

In honor of the original ride, one of the black and yellow Bee Monorail cars has been lovingly restored and mounted in front of the Sky Trading Company, where guests can sit in it for photo opportunities.

The B Rail Ride Details

– 1,000ft of Monorail I beam track, just short of the distance of your high school track.

– 2 to 4 Minute ride time, depending on how fast the rider pedals.

– The height varies as high as 40 feet above ground. Spectacular view, “flying” over the park.

– Single rider at a time with the idea of a two seater in development.

– Riders must weigh be between 75 lbs – 265 lbs and between 5’0″ – 6’7″tall.

Ride Requirements: The B Rail is an open concept rider-powered thrill ride, where solo riders are suspended, seated atop a mountain bike. The monorail track varies upwards to 40 feet above the ground. Riders must be 56 inches tall and a minimum weight of 65 pounds.. Riders must be willing and able to complete the entire ride safely while sitting upright and pedaling with both feet.

For park tickets, visit: https://skyparksantasvillage.com

About SkyPark at Santa’s Village

SkyPark at Santa’s Village is an outdoor adventure park with year-round mountain biking, hiking, fly-fishing, and open-air activities in the Skyforest section of Lake Arrowhead, California. The park resides on 230 expansive acres of natural forest with meadowlands, ponds, and an apple orchard. The village is the core of SkyPark, which includes historic log cabin restaurants and shops, seasonal entertainment, and open-air activities. SkyPark’s year-round mountain bike trails, hiking trails, fly-fishing, archery, seasonal ice skating or roller skating, rock climbing, and more are available to the public for the price of admission.  The park is located atop of the San Bernardino Mountains at 6,000 feet in elevation.  So, check the weather conditions prior to your arrival, it is recommended to dress in layers for unexpected outdoor temperature.

Credit: SkyPark at Santa’s Village.

The holidays are about to get a whole lot brighter at the Del Mar Fairgrounds with the return of Coastal Christmas Holiday Light Spectacular! Kicking off Friday, December 13, and running for select dates through December 26, this 8-day festive and immersive light display features shimmering lights and brings winter cheer to the beautiful California coast. 

Coastal Christmas invites guests to step into their winter wonderland for a sparkling holiday escape filled with fun for the whole family. Revel in festive activities with friends and family that capture the true essence of the cheer-filled season. Stroll through dazzling light displays, glide across an eco-friendly Glice® rink, and enjoy delicious festive treats. Pick out thoughtful and unique gifts for loved ones at the Holiday Market while the kids bounce around Frosty’s Fun Zone. No Christmas experience would be complete without a visit from Santa, and Coastal Christmas offers free photo opportunities with jolly old Saint Nick himself. 

“Coastal Christmas is more than just an event—it’s an experience that brings the joy of the season to the shores of Del Mar,” says Vincenzo Giammanco, Founder and CEO of CBF Productions. “We’re thrilled to bring families and friends together in such a beautiful setting, and we’re confident this will become a beloved tradition for years to come.”

Guests can jump into the holiday cheer and enjoy themed drinks and spirits at the Tipsy Elf Bar and Mistletoe Lounge or mosey on over to the Holiday Wine Walk on select nights to sample delightful wines. Those seeking a more private experience can reserve their very own Igloo or Fire Pit Table, complete with personal drink service, making for an extra special evening. In the spirit of the season, Coastal Christmas is proud to give back to the community with special promotional nights including Military Appreciation Night, First Responders Night, Teacher Appreciation Night, and more. 

Make sure to check out the website for additional details and secure your tickets to Coastal Christmas. Tickets are available now and start at $12.95 for children 4-12 and $19.95 for adults. Children ages 3 and under are free. Tickets for the Holiday Wine Walk are $49.99 and guests must be 21+ with Valid ID to participate. Operating hours are from 4 PM – 9 PM. For more information on Coastal Christmas, including special promotional nights, please visit www.coastalchristmasdelmar.com. 

Credit: Coastal Christmas.

Thracian Animal Medallion: Family Workshop

Saturday, December 7 and 14, 2024, at 11 am

Saturday, January 11 and 18, 2025, at 11 am

The Getty Villa

Make your own animal medallion inspired by real and mythological creatures of ancient Thrace. Discover metalsmithing techniques like repoussé and chasing (the art of making impressions in metal) in this free drop-in workshop. This program complements the exhibition Ancient Thrace and the Classical World: Treasures from Bulgaria, Romania, and Greece.

Artist-at-Work: Ancient Arms and Armor

Saturday, December 7 and 14, 2024, at 11 am

The Getty Villa

Join master blacksmith Tony Swatton as he demonstrates materials and techniques used in making arms and armor of ancient Thrace, from basic metal shaping to fine surface decoration. This is a free, drop-in program and complements the exhibition Ancient Thrace and the Classical World: Treasures from Bulgaria, Romania, and Greece.

Cosmic Connections: Family Workshop

Sunday, December 8 and 15, 2024, at 11 am

The Getty Center

In the Middle Ages, scientists calculated the position of the stars and planets using tools like volvelles (wheel charts) and mechanical astrolabes. Learn more about these fascinating instruments and create a volvelle to discover your medieval zodiac sign, related planet, constellation, and more. This free, drop-in program complements two of Getty’s PST ART exhibitions—Rising Signs: The Medieval Science of Astrology and Lumen: The Art and Science of Light.

The Art and Science of Falconry

Sunday, December 8 and 15, 2024, at 1pm, 2pm, and 3pm

The Getty Center

Learn about the history and practice of hawking and falconry, one of medieval nobility’s favorite pastimes, and meet live birds of prey. Tallon Knight, a master falconer for 30 years, shares stories of these remarkable birds along with other educators from Falcons’ Court. Presentations are followed by meet and greet with birds.

Rainbow Vision: Family Workshop

Sunday, January 12 and 26, 2025 at 11am

Sunday, February 2 and 23, 2025 at 11am

The Getty Center

Make a spectroscope and bend white light into the seven different colors of the rainbow while exploring the art and science of prisms, light diffraction, and the visible color spectrum.

Credit: The Getty Center.

Celebrate the joy of giving this season by gifting America’s favorite live, family entertainment experiences with up to 35% off tickets nationwide.

Feld Entertainment® welcomes the holiday season with a special Cyber Week sale, bringing families closer to the unforgettable experience of live entertainment.  The global leader in live, family entertainment is offering a festive way to embrace holiday gift-giving with the most anticipated live shows and events coming to the SoCal Greater LA area including Disney On Ice, Monster Jam® and Monster Energy AMA Supercross!

Feld Entertainment’s Cyber Week deals return Thursday, November 21 through Sunday, December 8* with savings up to 35% on select performances and shows currently on-sale!

(ONLINE purchase offer only; valid on up to 8 tickets per transaction; limit one offer code per transaction)

Holiday shoppers can stress less with memorable moments that families and kids of all ages will cherish for years to come. From daring acts to 12,000-pound Monster Jam trucks to Disney princesses, ticket purchasers can use code G7VE35 at checkout** on the respective brand websites for the ultimate holiday gift experience. Feld Entertainment’s lineup of touring shows and events delivers high-energy productions for everyone in the family.

Restrictions & availability limits apply (see disclaimers below).

DISCLAIMERS:

*This offer expires on Sunday December 8^th at 11:59pm local time.

**Enter CODE before selecting seat(s) to see if offer applies to that performance

• Savings offer will vary based on performance and seat location. Savings offer is not available on all seats.

Redeem offer ONLINE ONLY; limit one (1) offer code per transaction – valid on up to 8 tickets per order; no double discounts.  Must be redeemed at time of ticket purchase.

Other restrictions, availability limits and exclusions may apply.

For more information, please visit https://www.feldentertainment.com/feld-entertainment-cyber-week-2024

Credit: Feld Entertainment, Inc and Feld Motor Sports.

Think about your kitchen tools: knives, pots, and pans. You probably have favorites, ones that just make cooking easier. But when it comes to your blender, you might be more focused on power or speed settings. Have you ever considered the pitcher’s shape? This simple detail can significantly affect how well your blender performs.

It’s especially true if you own a high-powered blender, like those with a Blendtec jar. The pitcher’s design can impact everything from smoothie consistency to how easily the blades break down ingredients. Let’s dive into what makes a good blender pitcher shape and why it matters more than you might think.

Why Shape Impacts Blending

Blender pitchers come in all shapes and sizes but generally fall into two categories: round and square. Each shape works differently depending on what’s being blended. If you’ve struggled to get the perfect texture with your smoothie or nut butter, the shape of your blender pitcher might be the missing puzzle piece.

A square pitcher often has flat sides and angled corners, which help ingredients move back toward the blades instead of staying along the edge. This setup works like a well-oiled machine, encouraging a constant flow of ingredients.

With round pitchers, though, ingredients tend to stay around the outer edges, which is acceptable for liquids and soft items. However, frozen or hard ingredients can get stuck along the walls, which means they don’t get blended or chopped.

Round pitchers are popular for certain types of blenders, such as smaller or lower-powered models, but square ones can make a big difference with tougher jobs.

How Blender Pitcher Shapes Influence Texture and Consistency

So why does shape matter so much when blending? The main reason is that blending isn’t just about chopping; it’s about creating a flow. The pitcher’s shape impacts how ingredients circulate, ensuring they come into contact with the blades more effectively.

In a high-powered blender, square pitchers are often used to handle everything from nuts to frozen fruits. The angled corners in square pitchers act like speed bumps, redirecting ingredients back toward the blades. This back-and-forth motion leads to a more thorough blend. This design can be fantastic for anyone trying to perfect their smoothie or purée.

Round pitchers have a gentler effect on ingredients, which works well for softer items and liquids. In a round container, ingredients tend to glide along the sides, which is ideal for mixing liquids or blending smaller quantities. It’s also why round pitchers work well with lower-powered blenders, as they don’t need as much force to get ingredients moving.

When Smaller Motors Need a Different Shape

For blenders with smaller, less powerful motors, round pitchers can actually be the better choice. Why? The smooth sides allow for easier circulation without needing a heavy-duty motor.

Using a square pitcher with a low-powered motor can lead to a frustrating experience. The motor may struggle to handle ingredients, especially if they’re thick or fibrous. Round pitchers make it easier to blend smaller batches without overworking the motor. So, if you’re making a single-serve smoothie or mixing a small amount of dressing, a round pitcher will likely perform better.

How Shape Affects Blending of Specific Ingredients

The shape of your blender pitcher can impact different types of ingredients in unique ways. Let’s look at a few everyday blending tasks and how shape plays a role.

● Smoothies and Shakes: Square pitchers tend to be better for thick, hearty smoothies. They keep the frozen fruits and greens in motion, preventing them from sticking to the sides.

● Nut Butters: Making almond or peanut butter? A square pitcher is your best bet. The flat sides and corners help keep the nuts circulating toward the blades. With a round pitcher, you may end up scraping down the sides constantly.

● Soups and Sauces: For hot liquids like soups, a round pitcher might work better, especially if you’re using a handheld blender. Round shapes make it easier to control the flow, which can be helpful for thinner soups.

● Dressings and Small Batches: For smaller quantities, round pitchers shine. Their smooth curves keep liquid ingredients moving around efficiently without needing too much blending power.

Choosing the right pitcher shape can make blending specific ingredients easier and more effective.

How to Choose the Right Shape for Your Needs

Choosing between round and square pitchers depends on what you blend most often. A round pitcher with a basic blender will work well if you’re mostly making light recipes like sauces and dressings. But if you regularly whip up thick smoothies or experiment with making your own nut butter, a square pitcher is probably the way to go.

High-powered blenders with square pitchers can tackle a variety of textures and consistencies. But if you’re using your blender for simpler tasks, a round pitcher with a smaller motor can still do the job without taking up too much space in the kitchen.

Experimenting with Your Blender

If you already have a blender, don’t worry. There’s no need to rush out and buy a new one. Instead, try experimenting with your blender’s settings and blending order. If you’re struggling with thick ingredients, add more liquid or try layering your ingredients differently. With practice, you can often improve blending performance with a few simple tweaks.

Some blenders also offer interchangeable pitchers, such as personal-sized cups for smaller batches. Consider trying a different pitcher shape to see if it makes a difference.

The Role of Blade and Motor Power

The pitcher’s shape is only part of the equation. Blade design and motor power also impact your blender’s performance. A high-powered motor works best with a square pitcher, as it can move ingredients in a way that takes advantage of the pitcher’s angles.

A round pitcher with a simple blade design helps maintain smooth circulation in blenders with less power. Matching the motor and blade to the right pitcher shape is key to getting the most out of your blender.

Shape Up Your Blending Routine

Your blender pitcher shape matters more than you might think. Choosing the right shape for your needs can elevate your blending game and achieve better results.

The right pitcher can save you time, reduce frustration, and make your favorite recipes smoother and more delicious. Consider exploring different pitchers to find the perfect fit for your kitchen needs and take your recipes to the next level!

December 12 – 22, 2024 Segerstrom Hall

Tickets on sale now at scfta.org

Hee Seo and Cory Stearns lead opening night cast

New Principal Dancer Chloe Misseldine debuts as Clara

American Ballet Theatre is the Official Dance Company of Segerstrom Center for the Arts.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts announces the return of Southern California’s favorite holiday tradition – American Ballet Theatre’s captivating production of The Nutcracker coming to Segerstrom Hall stage with 13 performances from December 12 – 22, 2024. This year marks the ninth season that the Center has presented ABT’s The Nutcracker, Southern California’s grandest and glorious production of this beloved holiday ballet, featuring ABT’s international all-star cast under ABT Artistic Director Susan Jaffe, who was appointed in 2022.

Co-presented by the Center and American Ballet Theatre with choreography by Alexei Ratmansky, The Nutcracker is the beloved holiday story based on The Nutcracker and the King of Mice written by E.T.A. Hoffmann and set to Peter Ilyitch Tchaikovsky’s magical score performed live by Pacific Symphony. 

American Ballet Theatre has produced several critically acclaimed productions of this family-friendly classic tale of Clara and the Nutcracker over the years. The Nutcracker, with its timeless music by Tchaikovsky and splendid costumes and scenery, is the perfect way to introduce children to ballet and inspire them to study dance and become a little Clara or Nutcracker Prince themselves. This production, with choreography by Alexei Ratmansky, scenery and costumes by Tony Award^® winner Richard Hudson (Disney’s The Lion King), and lighting by Tony Award^® winner Jennifer Tipton, received its World Premiere in 2010.   

Casting for The Nutcracker

ABT Artistic Director Susan Jaffe has released principal casting which will include Hee Seo as Clara, the Princess, and Cory Stearns as The Nutcracker Prince on Opening Night, Thursday, December 12. 

ABT Principal Dancer Chloe Misseldine will debut as Clara at the evening performance on Saturday, December 14. Of Misseldine, The New York Times said that in Swan Lake this summer she gave “an extraordinary performance of the kind that reminds us how rare it is for a dancer to have not only access to strength and delicacy, but also the ability to weave them together in real time.  [When] after a tremendous Swan Lake performance, Chloe Misseldine was promoted onstage [to principal dancer] at the Metropolitan Opera House. The audience went nuts.”

Thursday, December 12 at 7 p.m. Hee Seo, Cory Stearns

Friday, December 13 at 7 p.m. Christine Shevchenko, Thomas Forster

Saturday, December 14 at 2 p.m. Isabella Boylston, James Whiteside

Saturday, December 14 at 7 p.m. Chloe Misseldine*, Aran Bell

Sunday, December 15 at 12:30 p.m. Skylar Brandt, Herman Cornejo

Sunday, December 15 at 5:30 p.m. Hee Seo, Cory Stearns

Wednesday, December 18 at 7 p.m. Devon Teuscher, Thomas Forster

Thursday, December 19 at 7 p.m. Catherine Hurlin, Aran Bell

Friday, December 20 at 7 p.m. Cassandra Trenary, Calvin Royal III

Saturday, December 21 at 2 p.m. Sun Mi Park, Cory Stearns

Saturday, December 21 at 7 p.m. Devon Teuscher, Thomas Forster

Sunday, December 22 at 11:30 a.m. Skylar Brandt, Herman Cornejo

Sunday, December 22 at 4:30 p.m. Catherine Hurlin, Aran Bell

*Indicates the first time in the role.

Tickets for American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker start at $32.77 and are available for purchase online at scfta.org, in person at 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, and by phone at (714) 556-2787. For inquiries about group ticket discounts of 10 or more, call the Group Services offices at (714)755-0236.

Sweet Seats Info

A limited number of exclusive Sweet Seats are available for all performances of The Nutcracker.  Along with prime Orchestra seating, this ticket also comes with a Segerstrom Center keepsake ornament, The Nutcracker collectible poster, and a delicious holiday cookie – all in a Segerstrom Center tote bag!  

American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker 

Segerstrom Center for the Arts 

Segerstrom Hall 

Ticket start at $32.77

December 12– 22, 2024

Thursday, December 12 at 7 p.m.

Friday, December 13 at 7 p.m.

Saturday, December 14 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Sunday, December 15 at 12:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday, December 18 at 7 p.m.

Thursday, December 19 at 7 p.m.

Friday, December 20 at 7 p.m.

Saturday, December 21 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Sunday, December 22 at 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

In-person and Phone- 

The Box Office 

600 Town Center Drive 

Costa Mesa, CA 92626 

(714) 556-2787 

Monday 10 am – 2 pm 

Tuesday through Friday Noon- 5 pm 

Closed Saturdays and Sundays 

Online – SCFTA.org 

Group Sales – (714) 755-0236 

Credit: Segerstrom Center for the Arts and American Ballet Theatre Partnership

Do You Love Movies; Love Talking About Them; See Yourself Interviewing Celebs on the Red Carpet?

If so, then, we have an opportunity for you. Our KIDS FIRST! Film Critics are an international team of tween and teen reporters that watch all the latest films rated PG-13 and younger and create written and videotaped reviews. Plus, they interview the celebrities from these films at press junkets and red carpets.

This fall, KIDS FIRST! has partnered with SoCalCityKids to offer three kids, ages 9 to 16, from the greater LA area a place on our KIDS FIRST! Film Critics team. This is a limited competition and the first, second and third place winners will be comp’d the registration fee for the KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Boot Camp. ($120)

Please submit your application here: https://forms.gle/VQr9HwwX7h8URenf8

Don’t wait, the deadline is November 20!

For additional information about what the KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, go to

https://www.kidsfirst.org/become-a-juror/

You can see some of our Reporters in action here: https://www.instagram.com/kidsfirstcoming_attractions/reels/

Credit: KIDS FIRST!

The California Science Center presents Wildlife in Focus, a beautiful photographic exhibit featuring 12 portraits of some of the animals who have called the California Science Center their home. Captured by photographer Joel Sartore for his Photo Ark project, dedicated to documenting every animal species before they disappear. Wildlife in Focus opens November 16, 2024.

More than 3,000 animals reside at the California Science Center, and together they represent hundreds of species. Some thrive in the wild, while others are at risk. Many are easy to overlook. Every animal in a zoo, aquarium, or wildlife refuge is an ambassador for its species. They help scientists, staff and the public learn the animals’ needs and how to protect them in the wild. This is especially important for rare and endangered animals. These animals may be hard to find and study in nature. Photography is a powerful tool that inspires people to help protect species while there is still time. Photographer Joel Sartore visited the California Science Center in 2019 and captured portraits of 18 animals and twelve of these photographs are on view in the exhibition.

This exhibit also highlights the team at the California Science Center who care for the animals, keeping them healthy and protecting species by tracking natural ecosystems and supporting research on threatened animals. The animals at the California Science Center are ambassadors that teach guests, staff, and researchers about the animals in our world; the first step towards caring about any animal is knowing that it’s there.

Wildlife in Focus includes a digital interactive experience where guests can input an address anywhere in the world and see photographs of local animals that have been observed in that area, demonstrating that wildlife, however big or small, is all around us.

“Our Wildlife in Focus exhibit offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the animals that call the California Science Center home and emphasizes the importance of species conservation,” said Jeffrey N. Rudolph, President and CEO of the California Science Center. “The exhibit and the stunning portraits by Joel Sartore highlight not only the beauty of these creatures but also the critical role they play in teaching us about biodiversity and inspiring action to protect wildlife for future generations.”

The Wildlife in Focus exhibit is a new addition to the Ecosystems gallery of the Science Center. Admission is FREE, and reservations are not required. Other highlights of the Ecosystems include:

• The giant Kelp Forest where guests can join a Q&A session with a diver to learn more about these underwater forests and the animals that live there.
• The Rocky Shore which includes a touch tank where visitors discover how sea life survives harsh conditions and can touch a creature or two.
• The Desert with live animals including a desert tortoise, scorpions, fennec foxes, among others.

Additional zones in the Ecosystems gallery include Poles, Deep Sea Vents, Island Zone, River Zone, L.A. Zone, and Global Zone – all with interactive elements to explore.

About Joel Sartore

Joel Sartore is an award-winning photographer, speaker, author, conservationist, and the 2018 National Geographic Explorer of the Year. He is a regular contributor to National Geographic Magazine and an Eagle Scout. Joel specializes in documenting endangered species and landscapes around the world. He is the founder of the Photo Ark, a 25-year documentary project to save species and habitat.

Credit: The California Science Center.