This Thursday, November 21, 2019, in spirit of the holidays, Smart & Final who is partnering with the LA Dodgers, will be providing 1,200 Thanksgiving meals for needy families. In addition, they will be randomly surprising two families with "the Golden Turkey prize", which is a $500 gift card from Smart & Final to each family. Smart & Final and LA Dodgers are excited to gift these families with what should offer a significant boost to their holiday budget, and are thrilled that the Dodger players in attendance will be the ones to surprise their fans with this gift. Representatives from FUN WITH KIDS IN LA will be at the event helping out to feed the needy families.

This week, McDonald's debuted a unique collaboration with renowned streetwear brand The Cactus Plant Flea Market, bringing adult happy meals to fast-food restaurants for the first time and for a limited time! Cactus Plant Flea Market will offer box lunches starting Oct. 3 and will continue through the end of the month. You can receive 10 Chicken McNuggets or a Big Mac with all the sauce you want. You may select from 10 different sauces, and your meal will include a drink, french fries, and a prize. Each adult happy meal will get you one of four exclusive collectibles—Grimace, the Hamburglar, Birdie, and Cactus Buddy. The Big Mac and McNuggets options have the same prices. A medium box is $12.29. A large box costs $0.60 more. For health-conscious McDonald's customers, McNuggets are 130 calories less than the Big Mac. Sorry to disappoint breakfast people, but adult happy meals are only available after 11 a.m., and at select McDonald's locations, the company said via its app. The partnership was released on Monday and ends on October 30. By purchasing a Cactus Plant Flea Market Box on McDonald's app, you can automatically be entered to win exclusive Cactus Plant Flea Market and McDonald's merchandise, such as t-shirts, Grimace chairs, and more. Contests will run weekly, so you will have a few chances to win before the promotion ends.

Los Angeles might have one of the most expensive car insurances in America, costing an average of $857 for minimum annual coverage and $2,941 for comprehensive annual coverage in 2022. This can result from the long driving hours, making the city's highways some of the busiest in America. With the current average annual cost of auto insurance for vehicles in Los Angeles, it might make sense to find other options to save money on your family car(s) to prevent overspending on insurance. These high figures may sound like bad news leaving motorists asking themselves, why did my car insurance go up? Are there cheaper insurance plans for my car? Can I add my children’s vehicles to my insurance plan to save money? Factors that affect the car insurance rates in Los Angeles Insurance rates can generally rise or fall depending on your driving habits and the cost of maintenance and repairs for your vehicles. Any significant alterations throughout the insurance term may result in higher insurance premiums at renewal. The renewal price will reflect any new auto accidents, citations, address changes, general insurance rate adjustments, or modifications to your credit scores, among others. Here are some factors that may cause your car insurance rate to go up; ● Your mileage per year When a motorist wants to register for a car insurance plan, they might be asked to estimate the miles they cover annually. The rate for someone who covers more miles may be higher than for those with fewer miles. The reasoning behind this is straightforward: the fewer kilometers you drive, the lower the possibility of a collision and, thus, the lower the chances that the insurance provider will make a payment on your behalf. ● Location of your house Insurance companies consider drivers in the city to be high-risk clients due to the city's dense population and the potential for collisions. Therefore, if you live in one of the most populated areas of Los Angeles, there is a high chance of experiencing high insurance rates. ● The type of vehicle you drive The type of vehicle you drive could also affect your insurance rate. Older cars have lower insurance rates as they are considered to have a lesser chance of getting stolen or causing hazards. This may be reason enough to hang on to that old Jalopy. ● Your driving records Drivers with a history of traffic violations, such as speeding citations, may pay more than those who have never been stopped. For example, your auto insurance may increase by a considerable percentage due to speeding tickets. Likewise, your insurance rates may increase if you've been in an accident, even a minor collision. With the heavy traffic on the highway in L.A, it shouldn't be too difficult to slow down on those sunny roads. Other factors that can inflate your insurance rate include your credit history and the type of insurance plan you use. So, if you’re a parent paying for insurance for your car and your teenager's car insurance, you’d consider choosing a less expensive plan. How to lower your car insurance rate during inflation ● Increase your Deductibles Raising your deductibles can allow you to pay a significant portion of the out-of-pocket expenses associated with a covered loss. However, you should raise your deductible if you've cut back on how often you drive your car each week. If your vehicle is damaged and you don't have the money to pay your deductible, increasing your deductible can strain your budget. ● Reduce your coverage If your car's value has considerably decreased, you might consider removing collision and comprehensive coverage from your insurance plan. In general, this is advisable if the current worth of your car is less than the sum of your annual premiums. To determine the right insurance policy, you can request a quick insurance quote to help you make the right decision. ● Research Multiple rates Another way to lower your insurance rate is by researching the best rates for your car. It might be wise to browse and evaluate the current market prices. In most cases, you will find that another provider has lower premiums that fit your budget right now. You can learn more about your options by comparing rates. Last Words Whatever you choose to do, remember that inflation isn't going anywhere anytime soon, so you have to make amendments on your part to reduce the cost of car insurance and save money.

With its elegant decor and delicious food, H&H Brazilian Steakhouse in Beverly Hills is sure to impress. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, look no further. H&H specializes in churrascaria Brazilian fare that offers all-you-can-eat meat options where beef, chicken, lamb, and pork are served by gaucho chefs tableside and cut from skewers. When you sit down at your table, you're in for a real treat — flip your card to green and prepare for the Brazilian meal of a lifetime! Although grilled meats are the restaurant's defining feature, they also have a separate buffet offering appetizers and salad, that are included in your Brazilian Churrasco meal. The organic salad bar is overflowing with fresh ingredients inspired by the best Brazilian cuisine. You can expect some of the best grass-fed organic steaks at H&H including Picanha (Prime Coulotte), Fraldinha (Bottom Sirloin), Maminha (Prime Tri-Tip), Garlic Beef (Fresh Garlic Coulotte), Costela (Beef Ribs), Filet Mignon (Tenderloin), Ribeye (Prime Rib), and many more. You can also enjoy side dishes like Brazilian cheese breads, polenta golden banana, mashed potato, pasta, and grilled pineapple as part of your meal. Additionally, the eatery serves A5 Japanese wagyu beef, whole short ribs, truffle filet mignon, grilled salmon, and other Brazilian cuisine items individually. The restaurant is aesthetically pleasing on the inside. The cozy and welcoming atmosphere makes for an enjoyable and memorable dining experience. You can see meats on long skewers, rotating and cooking in the massive open kitchen, which makes your meal more appealing! H&H’s weekend brunch has a Brazilian twist! The brunch includes an unlimited Brazilian table side service of meats and gourmet foods by the gaucho chefs, an organic brunch bar, grilled pineapple, and side dishes for only $39.95 per person. You can add dinner meats to your brunch for $11. You can also take advantage of bottomless Mimosas for $22.00 per person on the weekends. The brunch buffet is available on Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm. H&H is a family-friendly Restaurant. Children 0 to 6 years old are always complimentary, and kids 7 to 12 years old only pay half price for the Brazilian Churrasco. The restaurant also provides high chairs and can easily accommodate baby strollers. H&H Brazilian Steakhouse in Beverly Hills is located at 8500 Beverly Blvd, Suite 113, CA 90048. Beverly Center valet parking is available at the rear of the restaurant for your convenience. H&H has another location in Downtown Los Angeles at 518 W. 7th St., CA 90014, which offers the same menu. For more information about H&H Brazilian Steakhouse in Beverly Hills and Downtown, or to make reservations, please visit their official website. Disclaimer: I was invited to H&H Steakhouse in Beverly Hills with my family for review purposes. All opinions are my own.

Looking for some delicious vegan food in LA? We have compiled a list of our top picks for the best vegan restaurants in Los Angeles! Vegan means eating only foods that come from plants. It also means avoiding all animal products, including meat, fish, dairy, and eggs. Many people choose this diet because they believe it helps reduce their environmental impact, improves their health, and reduces suffering among animals. Keep reading to find our favorite restaurants in L.A. where you and your family can stop by for a vegetarian meal. Native Foods 1114Gayley Avenue Los AngelesCalifornia90024 (310) 209-1055 To save time and avoid queuing for a long time in other unpromising restaurants, you can take your family to Native Foods for unique delicacies. They are well known for offering healthy food good for your kids. Their staff understand not just the need for quality food but also speed. Therefore, you can rest assured of fast services. The staff members also work to accommodate any allergies. If you're allergic to some meals, you can speak to the manager for any special requests. Another great thing about this restaurant is their prices. Their prices are pocket-friendly, so you will not have to stretch your budget. Native Foods specializes in offering creative meals that are globally inspired such as vegetable burgers. They also have kids' favorite dishes, such as veggie soups and pasta. All of their meals come with sweet treats that are so yummy. Café Gratitude 512 Rose Ave. Venice, CA 90291 (424) 231.8000 300 S Santa Fe Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012 (213) 929.5580 639 N Larchmont Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 580.6383 With various locations in Los Angeles and Venice, Cafe Gratitude not only serves good food, but also has a very motivated and cheerful staff who strive to provide great customer service at both locations. The menu here is designed for seamless support in your plant-based diet. Everything in Café Gratitude is meant to be positive and affirming. For instance, their dishes have affirmative names such as "I am Thriving" for soup and "Welcoming" for Mediterranean sampler meal. They also offer tasty shakes and smoothies for children. One of the kids' favorite smoothies is creamy coconut. Here, they call it "Grace." In addition, their dessert menu has wheat-free and raw items like vegan sweets. Stuff I Eat 114 N Market St. Inglewood, CA 90301 (310) 671-0115 Stuff I Eat is known for its legendary heaped portions. It is quite a task to complete a serving in this restaurant because of their generous servings. Stuff I Eat is a homey spot that will treat you as a family. Their dishes are very healthy because they use fresh and natural ingredients and contain no refined sugars, artificial colors or flavors, and preservatives. You can always feel good about what your family is eating. Their kids' dishes are top-notch. They offer delicious plates such as Quesadillas and Mac & Cheese. All kid's meals come with a salad. If your kids love spicy food, they should try the nacho salad, which is pretty good. After your meal, you should try their Tropical Blend Smoothie, which is a favorite among kids and adults. Gracias Madre 8905 Melrose Avenue West Hollywood, CA 90069 (323) 978-2170 1617 Westcliff Drive Newport Beach, CA 92660 (949) 386-8100 Born out of love for Mother Earth and reverence for all mothers. here the traditional Mexican cuisine is made plant-based, all from scratch using local, organic ingredients. Gracias Madre specializes in Mexican food such as cashew crema, turtle beans, and tacos. It is a good-looking eatery adorned with colorful cushions, slates, and an attractive courtyard for relaxing. This restaurant has kid-friendly meals such as flash-fried cauliflower and madre burgers. You can also enjoy weekend brunch here with your family or stop by on Tuesdays for Taco Tuesdays. Reservations are recommended and are available on their site. Crossroads Kitchen 8284 Melrose Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90046 (323) 782-9245 This upscale eatery provides an elegant backdrop for refined vegan and mouthwatering Mediterranean meals. "There are no obvious vegan cues, and most guests don't even make the connection that the menu is plant-based - they just know that the restaurant is comfortable and the food is satisfying and delicious," says the chef, Tal Ronnen. The restaurant attracts all people, including celebrities, youthful crowds, and families. It is an ideal place to hang out with your family for a Sunday brunch or a Saturday night.

Golf is an excellent sport for kids for many reasons. It teaches them how to focus and stay on task. It helps them learn patience, and it gives them a sense of accomplishment when they hit the ball in the right direction. Golf also teaches kids how to handle disappointment since they won't always hit the ball perfectly. And it's a great way to get some exercise while spending time outdoors. Golf courses specifically designed for children often feature shorter holes and lighter equipment, making it easier and more fun for kids to play. Many golf courses also offer classes specifically for children covering everything from how to grip a club to advanced lessons and techniques. There are lots of great golf courses for kids in Los Angeles, and it can be tough to choose just one. Here are our top 10 picks: 1. Wilson Golf Course 5500 Griffith Park Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90027 Griffith Park has two separate golf courses, Wilson and Harding. The courses are located in a beautiful park setting, and they're not too challenging, making them perfect for beginners. Wilson Golf Course is a municipal golf course located in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. The course opened in 1927 and is one of the longest courses in the city at over 7,000 yards from the tips. The mature layout will test even the most experienced golfer, and its location makes it ideal for families. Wilson has played host to the Los Angeles Open and is a perfect place to develop your game or host a special event at the banquet facility. Total holes: 18 2. Harding Golf Course 5500 Griffith Park Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90027 Harding Golf Course is a great place to play golf. The fairways are narrow, but the course is mature and rewards accuracy. The greens are guarded, so you have to be strategic in order to score well. Deer sightings are common here, so be prepared for a possible encounter. Harding Golf Course has been named a "Best Place to Play" by Golf Digest, so you know it's a great place to visit. You can also enjoy the full-service restaurant, golf shop, lounge, lighted driving range, and practice facilities that are shared with Wilson Golf Course. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just starting out, Harding Golf Course is a great place to play with your children. Total holes: 18 3. Hansen Dam Golf Course 10400 Glenoaks Blvd. Pacoima, CA 91331 Hansen Dam Golf Course is a great place to play golf with children. The course includes a driving range and provides two very distinct nine-hole sections due to the elevation changes and a number of trees on the back nine. The irrigation system's recent modifications and new tee-to-green cart routes have produced a lush, green, and well-kept lawn. The course offers many amenities, lighted driving range, as well as practice putting and chipping greens. The restaurant/snack bar has a variety of food and drinks available, and there is also a banquet room that can accommodate up to 100 people. Total holes: 18 4. Los Verdes Golf Course 7000 W. Los Verdes Drive Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 Los Verdes Golf Course is a great option for those looking for a course with spectacular ocean views. The course is located in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, and is considered one of the best values for golfing in the Los Angeles area. Additionally, the course has been awarded the Los Angeles County Course of the Year Award in the past. With a 6,617-yard layout and a par of 71, the course is perfect for kids and adults alike. Total holes: 18 5. Trump National Golf Club One Trump National Drive Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 Another great option for those in the Los Angeles area is Trump National Golf Club. This club offers two different courses, each with its own unique challenges. The first course is the Championship Course, which is an 18-hole, par 72 course that measures 7,242 yards. The second course is the Ocean Course, which is a 9-hole, par 36 course that measures 3,857 yards. Trump National Golf Club also offers lessons and clinics for those interested in learning more about the game. For children, the club offers the Trump Kids Golf Academy, which is a program designed to teach children the basics of golf in a fun and safe environment. Total holes: 27 6. Riviera Country Club 1250 Capri Drive Pacific Palisades, California 90272 The Riviera Country Club is one of the most prestigious golf courses in the world. It was founded in 1926 and has been a favorite of golfers ever since. The 18 holes are constantly challenging the best players in the world, and it will be the host of the Olympics golf tournament in 2028. If you're looking for a top-notch golfing experience for your kids, look no further than the Riviera Country Club. While this course is one of the more expensive ones on our list, it's worth every penny. The club offers a junior golf program that is perfect for kids of all ages and abilities. If your kids are serious about playing golf, then this is the place to be. Total holes: 18 7. Rancho Park 3-Par Golf Course 10460 W. Pico Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90064 This charming and beautiful 9-hole course is perfect for kids of all ages, it has perfectly groomed tree-lined holes ranging in length from 82 to 148 yards. It's also a great place to brush up on your short game. The course also features a 9-hole Footgolf course on the same footprint as the par-3 golf course, so there's something for everyone. Total holes: 9 8. Harbor Park Golf Course 1235 N. Figueroa Pl. Wilmington, CA 90744 The Harbor Park Golf Course is a regulation 9-hole course that is perfect for children. It has narrow fairways, beautiful views of Lake Machado, and well-bunkered greens. The Daily Breeze readers voted it as their favorite golf course in the South Bay. This is a great place for kids to play golf and have a ton of fun. Total holes: 9 9. Balboa Golf Course 16821 Burbank Blvd. Encino, CA 91436 The Balboa Golf Course at the Sepulveda Golf Complex is a great course for kids. It is challenging, yet also has narrow tree-lined fairways that make it fun for children to play. The complex also has a full-service restaurant, lounge, lighted driving range, and practice facilities. Total holes: 18 10. Lakewood Country Club 3101 Carson Street Lakewood, CA 90712 The Lakewood Country Club is a private club, but they do offer day passes for non-members. The course is beautiful and well-maintained and the staff is very friendly. The course does have a few water hazards, but overall it is a great place for kids to learn and play golf. Total holes: 18 You May Also Enjoy: 18 Best Public Swimming Pools for LA Families & Kids! 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(Updated for 2022) With spectacular views, splash pad, playground, public pool, gallery Marion Davies Guest House, beach courts, and more, there's always something to do for everyone in the family to enjoy at Annenberg Community Beach House. THE HISTORY The Annenberg Community Beach House is a public facility located on 5 acres of oceanfront property in Santa Monica. The property was originally developed during the Gold Coast era of the 1920s by William Randolph Hearst for actress Marion Davies. The Davies estate featured a mansion of 100-plus rooms and an ornate marble swimming pool. The Beach House was a hot spot on Santa Monica's Gold Coast, with Hearst and Davies entertaining luminaries from the Hollywood set, such as Charlie Chaplin, Louis B. Mayer, Samuel Goldwyn, Greta Garbo, Clark Gable, and other stars of the day. The property was sold to the State of California in 1959, continuing to operate as the ever-popular Sand & Sea Club under a concession agreement. Wallis Annenberg of the Annenberg Foundation held fond memories of visiting the Sand & Sea Club. When she learned of the City's struggle to identify funding to rehabilitate the structure after the 1994 Northridge Earthquake damage to all structures, she enthusiastically offered to help. The Annenberg Foundation provided a $27.5 million grant that paved the way for the site's rehabilitation. The site opened to the public as the Annenberg Community Beach House on April 25, 2009. The Beach House combines elements of the historic Marion Davies Estate with new amenities to create a truly unique community destination that's open to all. PLAYGROUND & BEACH AREA The Playground, courtyard, view deck, beach areas, and courts are open to everyone, and no membership is required. The following is the schedule for the summer of 2022: Beach House Hours Gated Area - includes the splash pad, courtyard, view deck Open Daily 9 am - 6 pm Grounds - includes playground, volleyball courts, sandy area Open Daily 8:00 am - 8:00 pm Parking Lot - reservations not available Open Daily 7 am - 8 pm Park & pay only – 1st come, 1st served Beginning July 1 Gated Area - includes the splash pad, courtyard, view deck, restrooms Open Daily 9 am-6 pm There is a children's playground featuring swings, climbing play-sets, and of course a sandy area to play. There are benches, chairs, and tables for adults to sit while the kids play. The Beach House grounds are available for small gatherings and children's birthday parties on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not available for the public spaces (courtyard, splash pad, or sandy areas). You can take your own canopies, tables, and chairs in the sandy areas. For detailed information about the Beach House grounds, click here. You may reserve beach soccer or volleyball courts 4 weeks in advance for $15/hour during the summer pool season. Beach court and field reservations are intended for individual or small party use only. Reservations are not required for court or field use. Courts without reservations are available on a first-come-first-served basis for free. Nets are adjustable and may be lowered for beach tennis play. There are six beach volleyball courts on the sand next to the Beach House. On most days, at least three courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis at no charge. Nets on the six volleyball courts are adjustable and may be lowered for Beach Tennis play. Staff is available to assist with lowering the nets during summer. The Beach House has two regulation-size beach soccer fields for public use. One field is available on a first-come, first-served basis year-round at no charge. Soccer balls are available to check out from Guest Services with a valid form of ID. THE POOL The public pool at the Beach House features marble around the deck with beautiful tiles that were restored by hand. The pool and pool deck are complemented by a new Pool House, with changing areas, lockers, and a second-floor view deck that offers spectacular views of Santa Monica Bay. The pool schedule is as follows: Pool Schedule The pool will be open on Memorial Day Weekend, between May 28 through May 30, 2022, from 10 am to 6 pm. Daily Schedule June 19 to 30, 2022 The pool is open 7 days a week from 12 pm to 6 pm. Daily Schedule July 1 to September 5 Monday through Thursday – 12 pm - 6 pm Friday - Sunday – 10 am - 6 pm Friday Sunset Swim for adults 18+ is scheduled on 7/12, 7/22, 8/12 & 8/26 from 6 pm to 9 pm. Daily Schedule after Labor Day - September 2022 Weekends only, September 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, Saturday, Sunday 11 am - 5 pm Kids under age 8 and 4’ in height must be accompanied by an adult in the water at all times. Kids under age 12 must be supervised by an adult at all times. Children requiring diapers must wear a swim diaper in the water. Swimsuits must be worn in the water. Swimmers must shower before entering the water. Toys and Flotation devices are not allowed in the pool, unless distributed by Beach House staff. Pool fees are $10 per day for adults, $4 per day for kids (1-17), and $5 for seniors (60+). Pool passes go on sale in-person one hour prior to pool opening, 1st come 1st served. There are no reservations online. All members of your party must be at the Guest Services window when purchasing your pool passes. For pool rules, click here. Annenberg has several Pop-Up pool days throughout the year when the weather allows. You can sign up for email notifications for the Pop-Up pool days. EVENTS AT ANNENBERG BEACH HOUSE Summer Events Beach House Architecture Walk & Talk May 1, 2022 Pride Drag Queen Story Hour June 17, 2022 Cardboard Yacht Regatta June 18, 2022 Pride Sunset Swim (Adults) June 24, 2022 Sunset Picnic July 14, 2022 & August 11, 2022 Seaside Storytime July 15, July 29 & August 13, 2022 Semi-Private Swim Classes for youth ages 4-14 sessions start April 30, 2022. Register here! Winter Events December/January Snowy Plover Walk with the Audubon Society Polar Bear Swim Beach Walk & Sketch with the Audubon Society Happy Birthday Marion! SPLASH PAD The Splash Pad is a water feature that shoots water out of the ground and is very popular with small children. The Splash pad is open daily from 9 am to 7 pm starting May 1, 2022. You can find tables and chairs near the splash pad to relax while the kids play. There are several good size public bathrooms on the site to change. You can also use the pool's changing rooms if you are using the pool. FOOD You may take your own food, and either picnic on the beach or by the splash pad (seating is limited by the splash pad), or enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner at the Beach Cafe on the site. Back on the Beach Café offers appetizing meals featuring local and seasonal cuisine with breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, pier, and Catalina Island. Click here for the menu. The best thing about this restaurant is you can enjoy your meal while the kids play in the sand. Back on the Beach Café is located at 445 Pacific Coast Hwy (AKA Palisades Beach Road) Santa Monica CA 90402. Call (310) 393-8282 for reservations. STAND UP PADDLEBOARD RENTALS Stand Up Paddle Boards are available year-round for rental for $45 for 2 hours, and $65 for 4 hours. Rental includes board, paddle, cart to transport board to the beach, and personal flotation device. The minimum age to use a paddleboard is 14 years old. An Introductory video is available to watch for beginners. Availability is subject to weather and surf conditions. You should call 310-458-4904 before your visit to confirm availability. CANOPIES RENTAL AT ANNENBERG BEACH HOUSE You may reserve 3 canopies on the beach for groups of up to 30 people in advance. Reservations must be made online up to 4 weeks in advance. Canopy reservations are good for 9 am to 1 pm or 2 pm to 6 pm. The cost is $60 per 4-hour reservation. The canopies are 10' x 15' and include two 5' tables. Click here to see canopy locations. Canopies are not available in the off-season from October to May. PRIVATE EVENTS & PARTIES AT ANNENBERG BEACH HOUSE The Beach House has a beautiful party venue, which is available year-round for birthday parties, baby showers, anniversaries, and any special occasions. But During the summer months, rental availability is limited. The Courtyard and Splash Pad are also available for rental from November to April. Space rental rates range from $900-$4,000. For detailed rates and availability, fill out an Event Inquiry form here. The Beach House has partnered with a diverse group of caterers to craft memorable fare for your event. MARION DAVIES GUEST HOUSE TOURS On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 12 pm to 2 pm, you can take a free tour of Marion Davies Guest House, and discover the rich history of this gorgeous Historical House. Docents are available to share the history, answer questions, and provide brief tours. Tours last approximately 20 minutes. Please check the website calendar before you visit. You can also stop by the Beach House for Art Bank daily from 9 am to 4 pm to see selected works from the City of Santa Monica Art Collection and view pieces by standout artists. Click here to check the website calendar for closures. CAMPS, CLASSES, AND PRIVATE LESSONS Semi-Private Swim Classes for youth ages 4-14 sessions start April 30, 2022. Register here! The Beach House offers Youth Volleyball Classes, Adult Volleyball, Yoga Classes, and Youth Semi-Private Swim Lessons. Click here for detailed information about the classes. You can also access numerous summer camps, classes, and private lessons offered by the City of Santa Monica, by clicking here. If you are interested in taking surf lessons on Santa Monica State Beach, click here for a full list of authorized surf instructors. To see the calendar of events, please click here. LOCATION AND PARKING Annenberg Community Beach House is located at 415 Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Monica, CA, 90402. Parking is available year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. On weekends and holidays, we suggest arriving early to find a parking spot at the beach house parking lot. When you arrive, note the number of your space and pay at the Park & Pay machines located in each section of the lot. Parking rates are $12/day or $3/day from April through October, and $8/day or $3/hour from November through March. The parking is usually open from 7 am - 9 pm during summertime, and till 7 pm or 8 pm on other months. If the Beach House lot is full, additional parking lots 8 & 9 (south) and Will Rogers State Beach (north) are within walking distance. The bike path connects these lots to the Beach House on the ocean side. Check Santa Monica's City-Wide Parking Map for updated information about the Beach House parking lot and lots on Pacific Coast Highway. Also, note that Santa Monica prohibits dogs on the beach. Service animals excepted (as defined by the ADA). You May Also Enjoy: The Best Hotel Pools With Family Day Passes in Los Angeles!

15 Famous Museums that offer Virtual Tours! These museums offer virtual tours that allow visitors to see the exhibits without having to travel to the actual location. From Smithsonian National Museum and Boston Children's Museum to Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, there are many places to visit on this virtual tour. The J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles The J. Paul Getty Museum at the Getty Center features works of art dating from the eighth through the twenty-first century, showcased against a backdrop of dramatic architecture, tranquil gardens, and breathtaking views of Los Angeles. The collection includes European paintings, drawings, sculpture, illuminated manuscripts, decorative arts, and European, Asian, and American photographs. Metropolitan Museum of Art Immerse yourself in 360-degree video of iconic spaces in the Museum. Discover fun facts about works of art, hop in the time machine, watch behind-the-scenes videos, and get ideas for your own creative projects. Musée d’Orsay, Paris In the center of Paris on the banks of the Seine, this museum was installed in the former Orsay railway station, built for the Universal Exhibition of 1900. So the building itself could be seen as the first "work of art" in the Musee d'Orsay, which displays collections of art from the period 1848 to 1914. You can virtually walk through the museum galleries. Boston Children’s Museum Boston Children’s Museum is the second oldest, and one of the most influential children’s museums in the world. Designed for children and families, Museum exhibits focus on science, culture, environmental awareness, health & fitness, and the arts. Guggenheim Museum, New York Tour the Guggenheim’s famous spiral staircase virtually, and discover incredible works of art from the Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Modern and Contemporary eras. Smithsonian National Museum The Smithsonian, National Museum of Natural History virtual tours allow you to take self-guided, room-by-room tours of select exhibits and areas within the museum from your desktop or mobile device. You can also access select collections and research areas at the satellite support and research stations as well as past exhibits no longer on display. British Museum, London Tour the Great Court virtually and discover the ancient Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. You can also listen to the history of each peace of art you explore. National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C. The National Gallery of Art preserves, collects, exhibits, and fosters an understanding of works of art. You can virtually enjoy exhibit of American Fashion from 1740 to 1895, including many renderings of clothes from the colonial and Revolutionary eras, and a collection of works from Dutch Baroque painter Johannes Vermeer. Pergamon Museum, Berlin This historical museum is home to plenty of ancient artifacts including the Ishtar Gate of Babylon and the Pergamon Altar. National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul Through the virtual tour at MMCA you can go through six floors of Contemporary art from Korea and all over the globe. Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam Explore the largest collection of artworks by Vincent van Gogh, including over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and over 750 personal letters. Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam Take a street view tour of this iconic museum, and feel as if you’re actually wandering its halls. Explore the masterworks from the Dutch Golden Age, including works from Vermeer and Rembrandt. Uffizi Gallery, Florence The Uffizi was designed by Giorgio Vasari in 1560 to house the Granducal Magistratures of Tuscany. Over time, the top floor loggia became an exhibition of the dynastic collection of ancient sculpture, artwork and artifacts. You can take a virtual tour to experience the wondrous display for yourself. National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico City There are 23 exhibit rooms available for a virtual tour filled with ancient artifacts, including some from the Mayan civilization. Las Vegas Natural History Museum Explore Las Vegas Natural History Museum through interactive exhibits and dioramas.

We've got some fun ideas for family nights at home! Families spend a lot of time together during the week, but sometimes it's nice to take a break and enjoy each other's company on the weekends. Here are some great ideas for family nights at the house that will bring everyone closer together. From games to crafts, here are 67 ways to keep everyone entertained! 1. Board Games 2. Baking Competition 3. Do Crafts 4. Make Puzzles 5. Freeze Dance 6. Play Simon Says 7. Play Obstacle Course 8. Play Bingo 9. Make Pizza together 10. Science Experiments 11. Magic Tricks 12. Read together 13. Card Games 14. Telling Stories 15. Canvas Painting 16. Hide & Seek 17. Scavenger Hunt 18. Make Lego together 19. Cook together 20. Fingerpaint 21. Family Camp Fire in the backyard 22. Build a Fort in the living room 23. Make Play Dough from scratch 24. Draw together 25. Bake Cookies 26. Write Stories together 27. Have a Pillow Fight 28. Make a Comic Book 29. Rent a Movie and make Popcorn 30. Make a Family Movie together 31. Create a Family Book from Family Pictures 32. Make a Tent and Sleep Outside 33. Dancing Competition 34. Make Trivia Questions about Family Members 35. Do a Karaoke Night 36. Make Slime 37. Play Charades 38. Have a Family Slumber Party 39. Cook S’mores over Fireplace 40. Tell Scary Stories in the Dark 41. Learn an instrument together 42. Make Ice Cream together 43. Play Mad Libs 44. Make a Cookbook 45. Play Dress-Up 46. Build a Birdhouse 47. Decorate a T-shirt 48. Have a Fashion Show 49. Do a Comedy Night 50. Have a PJ Party 51. Learn to Juggle 52. Learn Sign Language 53. Play a Word Game 54. Make a Time Capsule 55. Do a Talent Show (American Idol Night) 56. Play Catch 57. Play Giant Jenga 58. Play Chess together 59. Play Pictionary 60. Color Eggs 61. Play I Spy 62. Play 20 Questions 63. Have a Staring Contest 64. Play Truth or Dare 65. Play Hot Potato 66. Do Blind Taste Tests with Food & Drinks 67. Create a Family Website together (use wix.com or weebly.com) Do you have more ideas to share with us? Leave us a comment below! Pin it to save it for later: FIND FUN THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN AND NEAR LOS ANGELES

Many childhood memories are populated by a species in trouble, and last week, monarch butterflies were added to the red list of threatened species, which is two steps away from being extinct in the wild. Butterflies are beneficial insects that can help pollinate your garden, reduce the spread of disease-causing organisms, and serve as a food source for other beneficial insects. In addition to the benefits listed above, these insects also have a very important role in the ecosystem. According to scientists, habitat loss, climate change, pesticides, and herbicides are responsible for the monarchs' declining numbers. But there are ways we can help. Keep reading for four ways you can help save the Monarch Butterflies! Plant a Milkweed Plant Monarch butterflies would be extinct without the help of milkweed. The benefit would be great for the butterflies if we all plant one milkweed plant. Milkweed is the only plant monarch caterpillars eat, and it's where adult monarchs lay their eggs. According to Dawn Rodney, chief innovation and growth officer at the National Wildlife Federation in Reston, Virginia, not all milkweed is the same. For example, Asclepias curassavica is an invasive plant and is doing more harm than good, and longer-blooming non-native plants are a problem because they prevent butterflies from recognizing when it is time to migrate, thus spreading deadly parasites to the following year's generation of caterpillars. So, it is very important to choose the right plant. You can use the National Wildlife Federation's Native Plant Finder to select the proper milkweed to plant. Monarch butterflies require nectar-bearing flowers from native plants and adult monarchs. You can also use the Monarch Nectar Plant List to help you find the right plants for your area. Avoid Treated Plants It's important to know where the plants you purchase come from. Rodney said that many growers use chemicals such as pesticides and herbicides to keep plants looking attractive on retail shelves, which are harmful to wildlife. For example, caterpillars that eat leaves from butterflies that lay eggs on treated plants will die. Particularly detrimental to species, Rodney said neonicotinoid pesticides could kill bees and adult butterflies that consume toxic pollen and nectar from treated plants. To avoid treated plants, ask garden center staff about their pest-management practices, Rodney says. Other excellent options are buying from only trusted, organic sources or growing your own plants from seed. Maintain a Pesticide-free Garden Using pesticides on our plants, we endanger monarchs and beneficial insects, including birds that consume those poisoned insects. It is best to use soap, horticultural oil, or Neem oil and apply them only after dusk when pollinators are inactive. Because these products lose effectiveness when dry, the butterflies will be safer in the morning. Setting up a Butterfly Puddling Station Butterflies will sip water from a mud puddle to replenish their nutrition following a long trip and sun themselves on a flat stone to raise their temperatures. You can set up a puddling station in your yard to help butterflies supplement their nectar diets with the salts, vitamins, and minerals they need. If monarch butterflies become extinct in the wild, it will be a major loss for the ecosystem and a sign of larger environmental problems. The monarch's decline should serve as a reminder that, even in healthy ecosystems, species can disappear. That's why it is important to take care of the environment and plant native plants.

The world has become increasingly dependent on technology. It’s hard to imagine life without computers, cell phones, tablets, and other devices that allow us to communicate, access information, and connect with others. Since returning to school last year, more and more students have come to his classes exhausted and angry after working through drama on Snapchat until 3 a,m, John Arthur, a sixth-grade school teacher, has seen. Despite Arthur's concerns about the increase in time students spend in the digital world since the start of the epidemic, he recognizes that screen time is here to stay. Arthur says the situation is unprecedented because we can't remove technology from them anymore. "We must accept that the world has changed. They must utilize technology.” Even though youth screen time has escalated as a result of the pandemic, researchers, parents, and teachers are all in agreement that we should reconsider how we approach this problem. Teachers like Arthur are finding ways to seamlessly integrate technology into their lessons, as they realize that students will be more engaged if they do so. According to Arthur, a popular video game, like Minecraft, can be used as a simulation to teach students about ancient civilizations. However, he also stresses the importance of balance and ensures that all math instruction is provided on paper so that children can have a tactile learning experience as well as a break from screens. Dr. Dave Anderson, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute in New York City, advises that screen time should be limited if it is displacing other activities like exercising, spending time with friends, or sleeping. He says we should stop viewing technology as some kind of monster. Rather, we should focus on helping young people interact with technology in a healthy manner. “It is true for the entire human population that it is difficult to get off screens,” he said. “We try to put the same behavioral safeguards in place for children as we do for adults.” Dr. Anderson proposes rewarding children for getting off screens and putting time limits on technology along with warning signals when time is almost up. Children's frequent use of digital platforms has caused experts to worry about the consequences for child development, particularly in relation to in-person socialization skills such as facial expression control, polite conversation, and active listening. But there is another aspect to the story, Anderson says. “It is a mistake to believe that children are not gaining social skills online,” Anderson says. “E-mail, text messaging, and the ability to communicate effectively using Zoom or chat are all critical in the modern workplace. You need both.” The screen itself has not inherently decreased attention spans, according to Anderson. Behavioral issues like shorter attention spans are not side effects of too much screen time. Children who spend a lot of time on screens may have trouble paying attention in the real world because stimuli are less fast-paced. Arthur knows the problem of demonizing screens, instead of working with them, all too well. For example, during the pandemic, a student failed to log on for two days when classes were online and when Arthur phoned the student's parents to inquire about him, Arthur found out that the student's laptop had been confiscated as a disciplinary measure. Although taking the laptop away solved one problem, it created another, forcing the student to miss out on vital learning. "We have to learn how to use technology wisely enough to keep out the bad while letting in the good", Arthur emphasizes. You May Also Enjoy: Hey Parents, Take Your Power Back with This Parental Control App! Step by Step Instructions on How to Set up Parental Controls on Your Kid's Xbox One

Visitors of all ages can now dine at Bean Sprouts Cafe, the Los Angeles Zoo's newest dining concept. The children's menu at Bean Sprouts Cafe, which includes items such as Grilledzilla and Do-Re-For-Me, allows children to choose healthy items by visually displaying the choices. The cafe offers a variety of pizzas, smoothies, sandwiches, and “Imaginibbles” in addition to healthy foods. Bean Sprouts is committed to offering organic and sustainable foods in addition to compostable packaging and eco-friendly design. Beans Sprouts adheres to strict ingredient guidelines and offers eco-friendly and sustainable foods. To maintain such a worthwhile partnership with Bean Sprouts, the Zoo CEO and Director Denise M. Verret said, “We are thrilled to refresh our dining experience and provide Angelenos with healthy, accessible, and family-friendly food for all.” The brightly colored cafe is situated in the South America exhibit of the Zoo and will offer Bean Sprouts' signature themed, hand-held items, such as Do-re-for-me sunflower butter and organic jam; Grilledzilla, gooey grilled cheese and veggies; Flutter Bite, turkey, cheese, mayo, and veggies; as well as sandwiches such as the Great Turkado and Chicken Pesto Chango; cheese and pepperoni pizza; snacks; smoothies; raspberry and lemonades; and more. For more information about the new Bean Sprouts Cafe, visit Los Angeles Zoo's official website. Photos: Courtesy of Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens

When you book a flight, choosing a seat is usually the hardest part. In the past, flying economy was relatively simple and uncomplicated. You could either choose a window or an aisle seat or if you booked early enough an exit row seat. Families could also choose a whole row to fly together. But airlines started to charge for additional coach seats as they added more seats to their aircraft. As a result, selling airline seats began. Window and aisle seats are now available for an additional charge ranging from $20 to $90. Even exit row seats can be purchased—for a price. Extra leg room seats are also for purchase. Even those dreaded middle seats closer to first or business class are considered premium seats since they are closer to the exit, and can be purchased. There are some airlines that do not charge for seats, but many do because they can. But, how can you tell whether the seats available on a given flight are the ones you want? You can check the seating chart on a website such as seatguru.com, Expedia, Orbitz, or Travelocity. You can also go to the airline's website to see the seating chart. However, most of the time, all these seating charts are incorrect—or at least misleading. Airlines hold back a number of seats on every flight to provide them to their mega frequent fliers and big travel spenders. If those individuals don't appear, the airline then offers those seats to first-come, first-served customers. Families traveling together often have a difficult time finding seats on a flight without paying extra, and the airlines' upsell of seats makes it virtually impossible to have the whole family in one row. But, the U.S. Department of Transportation may come to the rescue, alerting airlines of a potential new regulation that would require them to seat families together, which may upset the seat upsell scheme. After receiving complaints from travelers who felt forced to buy seats so their families could sit together, a regulation has been proposed. U.S. Department of Transportation recognizes the importance that families place on sitting together when flying. To make sitting together easier when flying within the United States, the Department has issued a Notice encouraging U.S. airlines to do everything that they can to ensure the ability of a young child (age 13 or younger) to be seated next to an accompanying adult (over age 13) without charging fees for adjacent seating. In addition, the Department offers some great tips that families may use before, during, and after air travel. The most important tip is when you first reserve a flight—even if you do so online—get in touch with the airline directly and select your seats. Only they have the clearest and most up-to-date seat availability information on their screens. Also, don't forget that you are entitled to a refund if your flight is delayed, rebooked, or canceled if you paid for premium seats. And if you are dissatisfied with an experience related to family seating, you can file a complaint with the airline or the Department of Transportation.

There’s nothing quite like the open road, the fresh air, and beautiful scenery to lift your spirits and give you a break from your routine. Road trips are an excellent opportunity to see more of the world while spending time with family. But they are not exactly cheap to organize. The cost of fuel, accommodation, food and tolls can add up fast. Planning and making some necessary sacrifices, however, can save money on your next road trip to make it more affordable and less stressful. Here are some ideas to help you cut costs the next time you go on an excursion with your family. Use Apps to find cheap gas There are a few different apps that can help you find the cheapest gas in your area. Google Maps will show you prices at nearby stations along with a map showing their locations. GasBuddy is another app that will help you find cheap gas. You can use both apps to plan your trip and find the best prices along the way. Research the best prices on car rentals Car rental companies have different rates based on location, so you’ll want to research ahead of time to ensure you get a good deal. If you’re renting a car for a large family, you might want to consider booking a van rental instead. This will cut down on costs and increase your convenience significantly. Travel at off-peak times If you can, try to plan your road trip during the off-season. If you’re going somewhere warm, try to go in May or September instead of July. This will be less expensive as well as less crowded. Likewise, if you’re going somewhere cold, try to go in the spring or fall. This will keep you from paying more for your trip and might be less risky. Use Travel Rewards Credit Cards With a travel rewards credit card, you can earn rewards and discounts that you can use toward travel expenses. Depending on the card, you may even be able to get free hotel nights or free airfares. These cards provide a wide assortment of advantages and incentives that may be used to leverage your spending habits, from complimentary upgrades to first-class seats and airport lounge access to free food. Stay at affordable hotels Try to stay at hotels with free breakfasts, if possible. Hotels are expensive, which will help you reduce costs while on the road. You can save money by comparing prices across multiple sites, haggling, and being flexible with the location. Start with sites like Kayak, Expedia or Hotels.com to get an overview of hotels in your desired area. Eat at cheap restaurants You can also use apps like Yelp to find cheap and affordable restaurants along your route. You can also try to stop at grocery stores along the way to buy food and snacks to eat in the car or at your hotel. This will save you money and reduce the amount of money you spend at restaurants. Don’t pay for parking If you’re visiting a city and want to park your car, you could save money by parking in a residential neighborhood instead of the official city parking garages. You can find cheap parking using apps like SpotHero, which allows you to book parking in advance. This will save you money on short trips and long-term vacations. Drive a fuel-efficient car If you drive a gas-guzzling car, you’ll spend a lot of money on fuel during a road trip. If you can, try to drive a more fuel-efficient vehicle or rent a more fuel-efficient car if you’re renting one. This will save you a lot of money in the long run. Bring games and activities for the whole family While driving, try to bring games and activities for the kids. This can help you pass the time quicker and keep everyone from getting bored and fidgety in the car. It will also help you save money by not having to pay for entertainment along the way. Take public transportation When you get to your destination, if you can find cheap parking, park your car and take public transportation for sightseeing. You will be saving money on gas and paying higher parking rates near popular sites.

IHOP and Xbox have come together to create the ultimate gaming experience, combining a love of food with a love of gaming. Let’s take a closer look at the partnership between IHOP and Xbox and all the perks you will receive through this partnership. When you Join IHOP's rewards program, you will create an account, and every time you order food from IHOP restaurants, or on their app, you will earn PanCoins to redeem cool rewards including: Xbox Game Pass Ultimate 1-month trial code Grounded full game download code Forza Horizon 5 Premium Add-Ons bundle code PainCoins are IHOP's reward currency. You can earn PanCoins for eating at IHOP or ordering food through IHOP's app, and you can redeem PanCoins for promotional coupons for meals, merchandise, or experiences on IHOP app. After your purchase, you will need to enter a 13-digit code from your receipt or a 10-digit bonus code in your IHOP account. You will earn 1 point for every $5 spent which will be deposited into your International Bank of Pancakes account. You can then trade your PanCoins for a variety of tasty assets in the Stack Market. Here is what you can get with your PanCoins: Original Buttermilk Short - 3 PanCoins Original Buttermilk Full Stack - 5 PanCoins Any Kids Meal - 8 PanCoins Xbox Game Pass Ultimate - 1 Month Trial Code - 10 PanCoins Any Burger or Sandwich - 12 PanCoins Any Burrito or Bowl - 15 PanCoins Any Flavored Full Stack - 20 PanCoins Any Breakfast Combo - 30 PanCoins Forza Horizon 5 Premium Add-Ons-Bundle - 40 PanCoins Grounded Full Game Download - 40 PanCoins Photos: Courtesy of IHOP