Greer's Blog

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Alisal Ranch Marks 80 Years with a Summer of Celebration

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By Greer Wylder
July 16, 2026

Alisal Ranch, the 10,500-acre working ranch and resort in the Santa Ynez Valley, is celebrating its 80th anniversary this summer. The property first welcomed guests on July 16, 1946, and has spent eight decades building a reputation for Western hospitality and family tradition. I've never stayed there myself, but I have friends who have, and they can't stop raving about it. It's firmly on my bucket list.To mark the milestone, the ranch is rolling out a summer's worth of experiences and keepsakes. The centerpiece is the 1946 Legacy Package, a two-night stay for six adults priced at a symbolic $19,460.…

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VEA Newport Beach Debuts Chef Angelo Sosa Summer Menu

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By Greer Wylder
July 14, 2026

VEA Newport Beach, A Marriott Resort & Spa, has partnered with chef, restaurateur and "Top Chef" alum Angelo Sosa for a limited-time summer collaboration running July 14 through Sept. 30.The partnership brings two concepts, Beso Burger and Taqueria Amada, to dining venues across VEA Newport Beach, the coastal resort known for its sweeping Pacific Ocean views.Beso BurgerAvailable at Edge Bar (Monday through Thursday, noon to sunset; Friday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to sunset):Beso Burger, $28: a single smashed prime beef patty with Beso sauce, American cheese, pickles and crinkle-cut fries on a toasted brioche bunBeso Shake, $12: a signature French…

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Amorelia Cocina Artesanal Brings the Flavors of Michoacán to Laguna Beach

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By Greer Wylder
July 13, 2026

Amorelia Cocina Artesanal has opened in Laguna Beach, bringing the flavors of Michoacán, handcrafted cocktails, and a vibrant gathering place to South Coast Highway.The new restaurant features Mexican-inspired cuisine influenced by generations of family recipes from Morelia, Michoacán, paired with fresh coastal ingredients and thoughtful presentations. The dining experience is designed around great food, warm hospitality, and creating opportunities for people to connect.Amorelia also plans to serve as a hub for culture and community, with live music on Thursday evenings, jazz nights, Latin dance events, DJ-hosted gatherings, live art activations, culinary experiences, and other community celebrations throughout the year.For co-owner…

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Via Lido Plaza Hosts Stars, Stripes & Summer Celebration July 17-18

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By Greer Wylder
July 13, 2026

Via Lido Plaza is celebrating summer with Stars, Stripes & Summer, a family-friendly community event taking place July 17 and 18 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.The festivities begin Friday, July 17, when visitors can take advantage of in-store promotions and get a head start on completing a Via Lido Plaza Merchant Passport.Passports can be picked up at the customer service table located next to the new mural behind Via Lido Drugs, facing West Marine. Participants who visit merchants throughout the center and collect passport stamps will be entered into an opportunity drawing for gift cards and prizes…

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Casa Romantica’s Summer Lineup Features Concerts, Movies and Family Fun

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By Greer Wylder
July 12, 2026

With several events already sold out and summer in full swing, Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens is continuing its busy season with concerts, outdoor movies, family programs, workshops and cultural events throughout July and August.Set against the backdrop of its historic home and sweeping Pacific Ocean views, the San Clemente landmark is offering a variety of experiences for all ages.The summer concert series continues July 15 and 16 with the Blue Breeze Band performing Motown, R&B, soul, funk and blues in the courtyard. Reserved tables have sold out, but general admission tickets are still available.On July 17, the Coffee…

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