CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER ANNOUNCES FIRST ARTIFACT INSTALLATION

IN THE KOREAN AIR AVIATION GALLERY OF THE FUTURE

SAMUEL OSCHIN AIR AND SPACE CENTER:

HAWKER SIDDELEY HARRIER T.4

The California Science Center has installed the first artifact in the Korean Air Aviation Gallery of the future Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, the Hawker Siddeley Harrier T.4.

This unique jet-powered strike aircraft was designed and produced by the British aerospace company Hawker Siddeley and was part of the first generation of the Harrier series of aircraft made for the Royal Air Force (RAF). It was the first operational ground attack and reconnaissance aircraft with vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) capabilities and the only truly successful V/STOL design of its era, revolutionizing the concept for fixed-wing combat aircraft and making it one of the most iconic fighter jets ever flown. First introduced into service during the Cold War, the two-seat trainer now installed in the Korean Air Aviation Gallery of the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center was built circa 1975.

There is currently no public access to the new Aviation Gallery due to the ongoing construction of the Air and Space Center, however images and installation videos can be accessed here. For further details on the Hawker Siddeley Harrier T.4, please click here for a full fact sheet.

WHERE: 

The Korean Air Aviation Gallery is one of three new multi-level galleries in the future Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, opening date to be announced. This gallery will explore the way the pursuit to master the sky involves tradeoffs among the four forces of flight – lift, thrust, weight, and drag – affecting every aircraft ever flown, whether it flies high, low, fast, or slow. The gallery will have three primary thematic areas: Learning to Fly, Everyday Flight, and Advanced Aviation. The Harrier is one of approximately 20 aircraft that will be on display and the first to be installed, in the Advanced Aviation area.

WHEN: 

Construction at the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center is expected to be concluded by the end of 2025. Following the completion of artifact and exhibit installation, the Air and Space Center will be ready to open. The opening date is yet to be announced.

The California Science Center is open daily from 10am-5pm (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day). 

ENDEAVOURLA CAMPAIGN:
EndeavourLA is the California Science Center Foundation’s fundraising campaign that enabled the acquisition and previous temporary display of space shuttle Endeavour and supports our plans to build the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center and sustain ongoing exhibits, programs, and operations. The project’s lead donors are the Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Oschin Family Foundation and the State of California, joined by principal donors Korean Air and the Kresa Family Foundation, along with numerous individuals, foundations, and corporate supporters.

The California Science Center Foundation is actively fundraising to complete this ambitious project with over $375 million raised toward the $450 million total project budget. Everyone can help realize this exciting vision for the future Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, and donations at any level are welcomed. To contribute or learn more, go to EndeavourLA.org.

Credit: California Science Center.

ABOUT THE CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER:

California Science Center 

700 Exposition Park Drive 

Los Angeles 

CA 90037 

The California Science Center is a dynamic destination where families, adults, and children can explore the wonders of science through hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, innovative programs, and awe-inspiring large-format movies. The California Science Center and IMAX Theater are located in historic Exposition Park just west of the Harbor (110) Freeway at 700 Exposition Park Drive, Los Angeles. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission to the Science Center is FREE. The California Science Center is proud to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the American Alliance of Museums (AAM). Visit at https://californiasciencecenter.org for more information.

Dana Point Harbor is proud to announce the launch of its new Dana Point Harbor Farmers Market, a weekly farmers’ market held on Wednesdays from 9 AM to 1 PM. This outdoor market features fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal goods and coastal community charm. Visitors can stroll the Village and the waterfront while supporting local small businesses with over 25 vendors. 

Local-favorite vendors include: Black Sheep Farms, Bee Ladies Honey, Eben Eggs, Bread Artisan Bakery, Fresco Pasta, Jaime’s Savory Almonds, Beyond Oats and more. Stop by the market to shop for reliable staples and see what’s fresh each season.

WHEN:

Grand Opening Wednesday, September 24, 2025 

Every Wednesday, 9 AM – 1 PM

WHERE: 

Dana Point Harbor

Village Parking Lot

34555 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point, CA 92629

MORE INFORMATION:

For more event information and participating vendors, please visit

farmandcraftmarket.com/danapointharbor or follow along on Instagram @danapointharbor_farmersmarket. 

The event is free to attend, with free 4-hour parking available in the adjacent all-new harbor parking structure. For additional parking information, please visit danapointharbor.com. 

Credit:  Dana Point Harbor

Full-time RVing can be fun, and travelers who choose this lifestyle can travel where they want, when they want. They do not have to wait for holidays or long weekends. Every day can be an adventure. They can live close to nature, wake up to different views, and enjoy simple living in their RV.

However, many people are still hesitant to consider this lifestyle. Some believe living in the RV might be less enjoyable if they leave behind family or friends. They also fear their expenses might increase if their RV develops mechanical problems. A few feel nervous about being on the road full-time.

Space limitation is another concern for some people considering living in an RV full-time. Those with many items worry about leaving them behind, especially if they are valuable or might be needed later. This article will share a few downsizing tips to help those who want to switch make an informed decision.

Choose the Right Vehicle

Personal items and tools can quickly fill RV cabinets and drawers, reducing functional storage space. Large appliances or extra furniture might not fit inside and could make daily living challenging.

Aspiring full-time travelers should determine the space they need before adopting this lifestyle. How much room do they need for sleeping, cooking, or working? This will ensure they keep essential items and remove clutter.

It is also important to compare different RV models at this point. They can visit a reputable dealership and check rv trailers for sale in utah to determine which one suits their needs. Some RVs have larger kitchens, while others provide extra sleeping areas to suit different travelers.

When potential buyers visit the dealership, they can determine how different layouts affect their lifestyle and comfort level. They can plan the available space based on their needs to avoid choosing the wrong RV.

Storage Units

Sometimes, travelers may have more items they want to keep than their RV can hold. In such cases, they can request a storage unit to store extra belongings such as seasonal clothes, sports gear, or family heirlooms.

Many cities and towns have affordable storage facilities, including climate-controlled ones that can protect delicate items. Others provide security cameras and advanced locks for an additional security layer. The right storage option depends on budget and location.

Some RVers rent storage units close to their family so that their family members can check on the items if needed. Others prefer to rent units near their favorite travel routes, making it easier to pick up things during trips.

While storage adds an extra cost, it provides balance and prevents the loss of important items. People can travel light while still knowing their important possessions are safe, which makes the transition to RV living less stressful.

Smart Storage for Sentimental Items

Some items are hard to give up. For instance, travelers may not willingly part with gifts from loved ones, family photos, or travel souvenirs. These objects carry memories and should always be at home because letting go can feel like losing part of one’s identity.

Luckily, travelers do not necessarily have to leave such items behind when starting permanent RVing. They can keep them in a small box of special items. They can also take photos of sentimental belongings before giving them away. Digital albums can preserve memories without taking up space.

Some RVers may even mail keepsakes to family members for safekeeping. The goal is not to eliminate every item, but to keep only what adds value to life on the road. This tip ensures travelers enjoy their RV without feeling weighed down by clutter.

Sell Items Separately

People who buy items from a downsizing sale expect affordable prices. Therefore, travelers who sell all items fast and from one place may not get the best price. High-value items like jewelry, electronics, or antique furniture should be sold separately to ensure sellers can earn as much as possible from each item.

Selling used items is time-consuming, but it is often worth it. Online marketplaces, auctions, and specialty stores may attract buyers willing to pay more. For example, selling a quality camera through a photography group can attract more buyers and increase the offers compared to including it in a yard sale.

Yard Sale

A yard sale is a simple way to get rid of many items, such as old furniture, clothes, books, and kitchenware, at once. It is popular because it is easy to organize and attracts local buyers. Aspiring travelers can set realistic prices or allow bargaining. They may also advertise the event on community boards or social media.

While yard sales may not bring high profits, they free up space quickly. They also allow people to say goodbye to old items while helping neighbors get affordable goods. This step can make downsizing less overwhelming for anyone preparing for full-time RVing.

Donations

Donating some items is another attractive option for downsizing. Some items may not be worth selling, but can still help others. Charity organizations can collect quality clothes, bedding, appliances, and furniture. Donating is also fulfilling because it supports people in need.

Aspiring travelers can donate items to local shelters, thrift stores, or community groups. Some organizations even provide pick-up services, which makes the process easier. Donations may also qualify for tax benefits in some states.

Smart Storage

Even after selling and donating, some people still need storage space in their RV. Creative solutions like under-bed storage, hanging organizers, and foldable furniture can make a small RV feel larger.

Aspiring RV travelers should consider buying multi-purpose items. A bench with hidden storage, foldable furniture, hooks, or racks on the walls can save space. When Rvers use storage space wisely, they can keep essentials safely without feeling cramped.

Living full-time in an RV brings freedom, adventure, and simple living. However, space limitations can interfere with comfort if the traveler does not downsize appropriately. These tips can help beginners enjoy traveling without losing important items, compromising comfort, or cluttering their personal space.

A rescued olive ridley sea turtle has returned to the ocean after receiving seven months of care from staff at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Aquarium staff released the rehabilitated sea turtle from their boat off the coast of Southern California as Aquarium donors watched and celebrated from aboard a vessel donated by Harbor Breeze Cruises. An open ocean release was chosen because this sea turtle species is migratory. They sometimes travel thousands of miles between feeding grounds and nesting sites.

The olive ridley sea turtle was found cold-stunned and stranded on Pismo Beach on December 14, 2024, and was rescued by The Marine Mammal Center. The turtle was also dehydrated, somewhat emaciated, and had wounds on its flippers, eyes, and shell. Aquarium of the Pacific staff met the rescue team halfway to transfer the turtle to the Aquarium for a medical evaluation and care. The Aquarium was selected because of its expertise in treating and releasing stranded and injured sea turtles.

The Aquarium’s animal care team treated the turtle with gradual warming and subcutaneous fluids on the first day. During its time at the Aquarium, the olive ridley’s superficial wounds were also treated until it recovered. The adult or subadult olive ridley sea turtle weighs sixty-three pounds after gaining thirteen since its arrival. “Seeing this turtle’s journey through recovery and return to the ocean is a testament to the dedication of our veterinary and animal care teams,” said Nate Jaros, vice president of animal care at the Aquarium of the Pacific.

“Time and again, our staff are prepared to prioritize aid for animals in their time of need, which is nothing short of inspirational. We are grateful to Harbor Breeze Cruises for making this a special day for staff and our supporters who were able to board their vessel to witness this special moment,” said Jaros.

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. 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. Their numbers have fallen to the point that every turtle is important to the future of the species.

The Aquarium of the Pacific also announced in October 2024 that it received a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation with support from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), as well as matched funds from the KM Shimano Family Foundation, to construct an on-site sea turtle rehabilitation area near its Molina Animal Care Center. The space includes an approximately 4,000-gallon enclosure but will require other specialty equipment and medical supplies. These will further the Aquarium’s efforts in caring for future stranded, sick, or injured sea turtles, so they can heal and return to their natural habitat. Since every rescued sea turtle has a story of survival, the public is invited to help write the next chapter. You can support sea turtle rehabilitation efforts and make an impact for these endangered creatures that will last generations by donating to the rescue to release campaign.

The non-profit Aquarium of the Pacific is a community gathering place dedicated to connecting people to and conserving nature. The Aquarium’s vision is to foster an inclusive community that works together to create our sustainable future. Home to more than 12,000 animals, Aquarium exhibits include Stars of the Sea featuring Our Living Coastline, the Southern California Gallery, Pacific Visions, and Shark Lagoon. Beyond its animal exhibits, the Aquarium offers educational programs for people of all ages, including First Wednesdays featuring a variety of guest speakers. The Aquarium offers memberships with unlimited FREE admission for 12 months and other special benefits.To make a donation to help support the Aquarium, please visit the donation webpage. To visit, reservations are required for everyone and can be made at aquariumofpacific.org or by calling (562) 590-3100.

Van trips always necessitate proper planning. However, when coordinating a van trip with the whole family, it matters to plan strategically. Read on for some van travel hacks to get the most out of your trip.

1. Bulk Up on Entertainment

Long drives call for distractions. Keep the whole cabin entertained with story times, family games, movie or television streaming, or karaoke.

For younger children, consider bringing coloring pages and crayons, picture books, fidget toys, and electronic toys that give kiddos a sensory experience to keep them from being bored on the drive.

2. Create a Family Playlist

Whether your family is pumped about the trip or feeling exhausted from the long drive, listening to a family playlist always makes for a good time.

Before hitting the road, collaborate with your family to create a digital playlist with all of your individual favorite tunes. Consider coming up with different playlists, like classical music or early 2000 pop hits. Not only can music be enjoyable, but it can also have benefits.

3. Plan Your Stops in Advance

Sometimes you can predict when you’ll need to stop. The kids might need to go to the bathroom, the driver may need a stretch break, or you might wish to stop and grab some food.

Nonetheless, it helps to plan your stops. Consider your road, plan to stop every hour or two. Find gas stations, restrooms, and any store or eatery you might want to check out along the way.

4. Organize Packing with Lists

Packing for yourself, much less your entire family, can be a big task. Things can easily get missed or forgotten.

Before packing, make lists of everything your family members need individually and together. As you pack, check the items off to make sure you got everything you need. It also matters to keep the items consolidated to ensure nothing gets missed when packing the items into your van.

5. Pack Potty Essentials Just in Case

You never know when your kids are going to have to go. That said, bring all the potty essentials: empty bags and bottles, baby wipes, diapers or pull-ups, spare underwear and pants, hand sanitizer, and a car air freshener. This can keep your van smelling fresh and staying as clean as possible, especially when accidents occur.

6. Save Money by Bringing Your Own Food

Before you head out on your trip, consider prepping all or some of your family’s meals to save some money. It will also save you time from having to make stops for food on your journey.

Bring items like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, beef jerky, pasta salad, bananas, bags of chips, pretzels, protein bars, trail mix, and popcorn. If you have an ice chest or fridge on board, feel free to bring freshly-cut fruit, meats and cheeses, boiled eggs, and salads for a healthy and fresh meal or snack.

7. Create Your Own Clean-Up Kit

Kids are bound to make messes. Accidents happen, and some are even intentional. That said, creating a clean-up kit is a great idea when traveling in a van with kids.

Your clean-up kit might consist of disposable wipes, tissues, empty bags to toss trash, and even a portable vacuum cleaner to keep the inside of your van as tidy as possible.

Looking for a new van to make your family’s upcoming trip a success? Reach out to a Mercedes Benz Sprinter dealer today for more information.

Conclusion

Planning a family trip in a van is not for the faint of heart. It can get cramped, and a lot can go wrong very quickly. On the other hand, it might just be one of your best family trips you ever go on. With the latter planning advice executed, you’re more likely to have a trip that runs smoothly.

Celebrating the Life-Changing Impact of Service Dogs on Veterans

This August 26th, as we celebrate National Dog Day, we shine a spotlight on the extraordinary role of service dogs, the loyal heroes supporting our country’s Veterans. These incredible animals do more than offer companionship; they transform lives by providing critical emotional and physical support, serving as lifelines for Veterans on their path to healing and independence.

For Veterans battling PTSD, service dogs are a source of unwavering support, helping manage anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. Through their dedicated training and steadfast loyalty, they offer comfort, safety, and stability, empowering Veterans to face daily challenges with renewed confidence and resilience.

Northwest Battle Buddies in the Pacific Northwest pioneers this effort, pairing expertly trained dogs with Veterans who need support. With 360 hours of professional dog training and an additional 70+ hours of teamwork with Veterans, these “Battle Buddy” dogs are prepared to help navigate high-stress environments like public transport and shopping, drastically reducing isolation and anxiety.

Shannon Walker, CEO & Founder of Northwest Battle Buddies, shares: “It is our hope that the day before a Veteran meets their service dog is their last worst day…and the day they meet their service dog it is their best first day.”

One inspiring story that highlights the mission of Northwest Battle Buddies involves a Veteran named Nick and his service dog, Jazz.  After serving in Iraq, Nick faced significant challenges adjusting to civilian life,  grappling with PTSD that led him to seek relief through medication and alcohol. However, his life changed for the better when he discovered Northwest Battle Buddies and was paired with his service dog, Jazz. Through the healing power of canine companionship, Nick began to reclaim his life, stating, “It’s better than any medication I’ve ever been on.”  Jazz has not only provided emotional support but also encouraged him to engage with the world again. Dedicated to his ongoing training with Jazz, Nick shares his journey to inspire other veterans, emphasizing that choosing a service dog can lead to immeasurable rewards.

In addition to pairing Veterans with service dogs, Northwest Battle Buddies offers essential resources such as health checks and ongoing support for both the dogs and their Veteran partners. Every service dog placed by NWBB is spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and receives any necessary medical care to ensure their health and well-being.

To celebrate and further their impactful work, NWBB encourages community involvement. Whether through donations, volunteer opportunities, or fostering service dogs, there are numerous ways to support this vital mission.

As we honor National Dog Day, let’s celebrate these extraordinary service dogs and the Veterans they support. Their partnership not only restores hope and independence but also underscores the profound impact these loyal companions have on our communities. Together, let’s recognize and support these heroes and their incredible canine allies.

For more information about Northwest Battle Buddies, please visit their website at northwestbattlebuddies.org.  Join in supporting our veterans and the dedicated service dogs that play a crucial role in their healing journey.

Step into the compelling photographic experience at The Other Side of Memory: Photographs by Luis C. Garza exhibit now on display at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana (211 W. Santa Ana Blvd.). With striking visuals of historic moments of activism and community from the 1960s and ‘70s, the nationally touring exhibition features rare black-and-white images drawn from Garza’s archive, many of which are on public view for the first time.

The captivating images in this exhibit document powerful defining moments of activism that took place on both coasts and abroad, including the Chicano civil rights movement in Los Angeles, Young Lords Party protests and feminist marches in New York and global gatherings such as the World Peace Conference in Budapest. Printed as silver gelatin fiber prints, the photographs reflect a personal visual record of resistance, identity and collective memory.

“We are very fortunate to display this special and rare collection of photos depicting pivotal historic moments for our community at the Historic Orange County Courthouse,” said Vicente Sarmiento, Orange County Board of Supervisors. “The images featured in The Other Side of Memory (El Otro Lado de La Memoria) document the significance of the Chicano civil rights movement in Southern California and beyond, capturing the spirit of activism and shedding light on the untold stories of these events.”

Garza became an indispensable chronicler of the Chicano movement for La Raza magazine, capturing intimate and unsparing moments of resistance, identity and community with uncommon immediacy. Today, his photographs can be found in major museum collections such as The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Sala de Arte Público Siqueiros (Mexico City) and The Autry Museum of the American West.

Admission to the exhibit is free and open to view at the Old Orange County Courthouse gallery Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through the end of the year. Metered parking is available at the on-site lot and surrounding street parking. Additional parking is available at lot P8 (301 W. 5^th Street). Parking fees apply. 

For information about the art exhibit and the Old Orange County Courthouse, please visit ocparks.com/historic-sites/old-orange-county-courthouse.

Credit: OC Parks.

On August 14, 2025, the CalKIDS Program will host Celebrating Three Years of CalKIDS, a special one-hour virtual event featuring California State Treasurer Fiona Ma and America Ferrera, an award-winning actress, producer, director, and longtime advocate for education equity. The event is designed to drive statewide action and engagement around CalKIDS, a transformative $2 billion public investment helping families across California access college and career training opportunities.

CalKIDS, administered by the ScholarShare Investment Board and chaired by State Treasurer Ma, is the nation’s largest child development account program for higher education. It provides scholarships of up to $1,500 for eligible public-school students and up to $175 for every child born in California on or after July 1, 2022 — no applications, essays, or GPAs required.

With more than five million children and students eligible, the program is closing equity gaps and helping families take the first and often most important step toward building educational and economic opportunity for the next generation.

“CalKIDS is a bold investment in California’s future,” said State Treasurer Fiona Ma. “We’re empowering families to unlock real funds already set aside for their child’s education. This event is about turning awareness into action and creating meaningful impact for students and families across the state.”

A key feature of the event will be a live demonstration showing how students and families can check eligibility and claim their CalKIDS Scholarship Account in just a few simple steps.

• Public school students will need their Statewide Student Identifier (SSID), a 10-digit number available by contacting their school.
• Parents of newborns and young children born in California on or after July 1, 2022 will need the 13-digit Local Registration Number (LRN), located on their child’s birth certificate.
• Students and families can then visit CalKIDS.org to get started.

This virtual event marks a major milestone in CalKIDS broader push to increase program participation. With over 630,000 CalKIDS Scholarship Accounts already claimed, the goal is to help as many children and students as possible claim their accounts, and this event featuring America Ferrera is intended to inspire thousands of students and families to take action.

“CalKIDS isn’t just about higher education — it’s about empowering families and affirming the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed,” shared Ferrera. “I personally know what a scholarship opportunity can mean for a family’s future.”

Ferrera will host a special segment during the event titled “Spotlight Segment,” where she reflects on her personal journey and the importance of higher education, equity, and the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed.

Every CalKIDS Scholarship claimed helps build a stronger, more equitable future for California’s children. For students like Estuardo, a CalKIDS Scholarship recipient from San Francisco State University, the impact is already being felt:

“I was absolutely surprised…I didn’t know I could have money for school just like that. I used my funds for tuition…it took a big load off my back. Now I can finally focus on my education.”

CalKIDS funds can be used at accredited colleges, universities, trade schools, and career training programs nationwide, covering expenses such as tuition, books, supplies, and more.

With over 60% of California public school students eligible for a CalKIDS Scholarship and 100% of children born on or after July 1, 2022, who have a CalKIDS Scholarship waiting in their name — the time to take action is now.

Visit youtube.com/@CalKIDSProgram to watch the virtual event broadcast on August 14, 2025, at 8:00 PM.

About CalKIDS: The California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS) is the nation’s largest child development account program, providing scholarships for higher education. Administered by the ScholarShare Investment Board, and Chaired by State Treasurer Fiona Ma, the program is designed to promote the pursuit of higher education statewide by empowering families to build assets, nurture savings habits, and raise their educational aspirations. To learn more, visit CalKIDS.org.

Credit: CalKIDS.