California Life News Room

Everyday more and more people are enjoying the experience of an authentic New York Deli without leaving  California. A visit to Gandolfo’s New York Delicatessen in Rancho Cucamonga will transport your taste buds as well as recharge your  spirit!

In 2007 owners Sean and Danielle Whaley decided to bring an authentic New York Delicatessen to the Inland Empire. Going into this venture they had no way of knowing the positive effects that their decision would have on their lives as well as the lives of their customers and their community.

Gandolfo’s opened their doors at the beginning of the recession, which nearly ended the fledgling business before it could take off. Listening to the advice of his mentor, owner Sean Whaley gathered Danielle, their employees, as well as a group of supportive family and friends to pray.

In January 2010, Sean and his mentor sat down and figured out what they would need to do in daily sales to keep the business open. On February 1, 2010 they prayed for that specific amount of money that was needed to save this family business that was their livelihood. On Feburary 2, 2010 Sean pulled up the numbers from the previous day and they had that number  plus one dollar!  The following days they continued to pray and God continued to answer.  By the end of the month the daily average was $249 more than the number they were praying for.  Since that day this special place has continued to thrive and prosper.

Visitors come in for the incredible menu as well as the faith based music you’ll hear when you visit. Whether you’re a fan of Pop, Country or Hip-Hop, you’ll hear something that will have you feeling spiritually uplifted. There is also a prayer box at the entrance so that patrons can write down prayer requests so that others can join them in their prayers. This way of expressing faith helps both those who leave messages and those with whom they are shared.

The Whaley’s and their supporters have no doubt that divine intervention has had everything to do with Gandolfo’s success.  Sean and Danielle have had to hire  more employees to handle the increase in business and have even considered the possibility of opening a second location. This turn of events has been described as a miracle, and rightfully so. Their lunch and dinner  crowds are a testament to the power of their faith!

Be sure to watch this full story airing Statewide on California Life’s Special Mother’s Day Show or watch online at www.californialifehd.com  As well as on Healthy RC Lving : http://www.cityofrc.us/websites/healthy_rc

Don’t forget to”Like” Gandolfo’s Facebook

Nothing says “Happy Mother’s Day” like fresh flowers.  But forget the boring bouquet!

California Life went straight to the expert– Lesley Stowe–to get some fun floral ideas to show mom you care.

Lesley is the founder of Lesley Stowe Fine Foods.  She has also written a cookbook, and her signature product–Raincoast Crisps–has been featured on Oprah’s O-List and in Martha Stewart’s Whole Living magazine.

One flower arrangement Lesley says you can easily do at home–the rose martini.  Simply take a large martini glass, cut the rose stems fairly short, then fill the glass!  Simple, right?

To see more of Lesley Stowe’s great Mother’s Day ideas, be sure to watch California Life, airing statewide this week and online at www.californialifehd.com!

Las Vegas has often been called California’s “backyard playground,” and with good reason.  The Strip is known for its casinos, nightlife, entertainment, restaurants and incredible hotels.  But those don’t end at the end of the Strip.

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, located just east of the Strip and just north of McCarran International Airport, offers all of the above… and more!

During a recent media visit to the hotel (my first!) I stayed at the new all-suites HRH Tower.  And from the moment I arrived, I felt like a (Hard) Rock Star!  I registered at the VIP Check-In, then headed up to my suite (which was spacious and chic- but also very comfortable- and had a great view of the pool!)

Soon after, I was whisked away on a tour of the property, including the over-the-top Real World Suite, which has a bowling alley, indoor hot tub, and more rooms than I could count!

Every 60 seconds, an American is diagnosed with ALS, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. The disease attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement. It comes unexpectedly and victimizes even the healthiest people. Toni Brown is the Group Fitness Director and one of the most popular instructors at Spectrum Club, South Bay. As the leader and trendsetter, she’s always been recognized as being a VERY fit group fitness instructor. About six months ago Toni was diagnosed with ALS and the Spectrum Club is taking it personally.
Friends and co-workers have come together to help find a cure. On Saturday, May 12 Spectrum Club, South Bay is putting together an event to match Toni’s legacy… through awesome group fitness events! There will be classes like Body Pump’s Wakeup-Challenge, Groove the Funk out of your Trunk, Rock and Roll Road Rage and it wouldn’t be complete without a ZUMBA PARTY! 100% of the proceeds from the classes ($25 each participant) will be donated directly to the ALS Research through MDA to supportthe fight to find a cure for ALS/Lou Gehrig’s disease. The Personal Trainers are also looking for sponsors in the Gettin’ Down Trainer Challenge. But that’s not all!

Several members, instructors, friends and co-workers have donated items to be auctioned off in support. There’s a range of items from gift certificates at some favorite South Bay eateries, Flemings & Tin Roof, to vacation packages. For the fitness enthusiasts a range of equipment from dumbbell sets to an Elliptical and Cybex Arc Trainer valued at nearly $8,000!

So stop by on Saturday May 12 and challenge yourself to some exercise for a cause with the Spectrum team.

7:30-8:30 Body Pump Wake Up Challenge

7:30-8:30 Power Cycle
8:30-9:45 Zumba Party
8:45-9:45 Body Pump Amplified!
8:45-9:45 Cycle P-King Speed Trails
10:00-11:00 Groove the Funk out of your Trunk!
10:00-11:00 Rock and Roll Road Rage

10:30-Noon Vinyasa Yoga Flow

12:15-1:30 Yoga 101

To find out more information about the event visit www.augiesquest.org/spectrum or visit their Facebook page
To place your bid on one of the hot auction items visit www.biddingforgood.com/mdatonibrown

Stay tuned to California Life with Heather Dawson to find out how much money gets raised!

California has always been on the cutting edge of new age and old age spa treatments.  From manicures and pedicures to

colonics & relaxing foot baths. Spas in the golden state tend to offer services that range from conventional to exotic. For those seeking the ultimate in immersive spa treatment, Soothing Solutions in Burbank is the place to be. Since 2000, Soothing Solutions has been known for offering therapies that other unique spas in the state do not.

The most noteworthy of these therapeutic services is called Floatation, which has been around since the 70’s. Floatation takes place in a tank filled with water & epsom salt solution and is kept at a comfortable 96 degrees. The solution makes your body extremely buoyant taking away the normal sense of gravity. The tank is also normally kept closed, however the door is not locked or airtight. Having an absence of light and sound frees your mind from normal sensations. While the senses are uninterrupted, our minds start to slow down taking us to complete relaxation while allowing stress and anxiety to melt away.

Those who float at Soothing Solutions report a lasting sense of bliss and well being that has often been described as spiritual in nature. So whether you’re looking for a break from noise or just a new method of meditation, floating may be just what you need.

To reserve your float session or to enjoy one of the many other healing treatments visit the Soothing Solutions website at: www.soothingsolutions.net

To learn more about health, entertainment and statewide news remember to watch California Life HD airing statewide and online at www.californialifehd.com

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The National Poetry SLAM! showcased thirty outstanding students - selected from over 7,500 America SCORES participants at regional poetry SLAM!s in 14 cities across the country.

With each awe-inspiring poem, the 6th Annual America SCORES National Poetry SLAM! showcased how incredibly brave and gifted our poet-athletes are. From Black History Month to Demon Cats to Shining Smiles, no topic was left out in front of a captivated audience families, coaches, and supporters. The evening was filled with memorable musical performances by smart-rapper Psalm One. America SCORES honored Chris Heck, President of Business Operations for New York Red Bulls and welcomed special guests from the New York Red Bulls: Mehdi Ballouchy, Kenny Cooper, Stephen Keel, Dax McCarty, and Jan Gunnar Solli.

One of thirty poet-athletes awarded the all-expense paid trip to New York is 10-year-old Cynthia from Braddock Drive Elementary. Representing LA, Cynthia’s role models are her brother, parents, and America SCORES coaches Dejan and Dre. She likes that America SCORES LA gives each student a chance to experience both poetry and soccer because, while she sometimes feels shy in soccer, poetry provides a safe environment where she can read her poems in front of her peers with confidence. She cites being knocked out by the ball at a game day as one of her favorite America SCORES memories.

Find out what you missed withTotal FootBlog and Latino Sports or check out photos from behind the scenes, at the Apollo Theater, and more on Facebook.

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Since 1926,the party supply company Shindigz has “made life more fun” for 22 million events through the manufacture and sale of personalized party supplies. Products ship from their facilities in South Whitley, Indiana across the United States and around the world to almost 60 countries. By providing more than 36,000 products, customers have a compete party solution! For Cinco de Mayo party ideas visit Shindigz.com.

Best 7 Cities for Cinco de Mayo Parties

South Whitley, IN, April 23, 2012

The 5^th of May is increasingly becoming a fiesta to celebrate annually.  Cinco de Mayo is perhaps best recognized in the United States as a time to honor the cultures and experiences of Americans from Mexican ancestries, as much as Oktoberfest, St. Patrick’s Day, and the Chinese New Year respectively celebrate German, Irish, and Chinese ancestries. This year, Cinco de Mayo marks the 150^th anniversary of the victory at the Battle of Puebla where the heavily outnumbered Mexican forces conquered the French on May 5, 1862. Keith Bansemer, Director of Internet Marketing at Shindigz, an online, party decorations store that sells Cinco de Mayo party supplies says, “Today, Cinco de Mayo is widely celebrated in the United States with colorful festivals, parades, home gatherings, and classroom parties.” “The popularity of this May holiday has grown rapidly in recent years. These seven cities offer some of the best, 2012 Cinco de Mayo parties, parades, or festivities,” adds Bansemer

 #7 Puebla, Mexico – Festival Internacional 5 de Mayo

The home of the battle, Puebla, Mexico is going all out to celebrate the 150^th anniversary. The festival has begun and continues through the holiday weekend. A highlight is the Mole Poblano festival on May 2 – 3, featuring the traditional sauce of chocolate and 20 plus ingredients.

 #6 San Marcos, Texas – VIVA! Cinco de Mayo

This gateway to the Texas hill country hosts the 38^th annual festival known for its parade, Little Miss and Miss Cinco de Mayo pageants, music, and Folklorico dancers.  Catch the annual Texas Statewide Menudo Cook-Off which features a soup of tripe, hominy and chili which is cooked for hours and thought by many to be the elusive hangover cure.

 #5 Chicago, Illinois – Cinco de Mayo Festival and Parade

Chicago knows how to throw a party!  Held over three days this year, the downtown parade and Douglas Park festival will draw more than 100,000 partiers throughout the weekend.  The family-friendly fest celebrates Mexican heritage with live music, dancing, cultural displays, rides and games, and plenty of delicious Mexican food and culminates with a colorful parade through the Little Village neighborhood.

 #4 San Antonio, Texas – Cinco de Mayo at Historic Market + Luminaria 2012

World famous for its Riverwalk, San Antonio hosts two major events over the holiday. The traditional weekend celebration held at the historic Market Square features Mariachis, Tejano and Conjunto music plus cultural dances and food. Added this year is Luminaria 2012, San Antonio’s celebration of arts and artists. Over 300,000 people are expected to be a part of these events.

 #3 New York City – Street Fairs and Pub Crawls

New York’s East Harlem’s street fair is one of many Cinco de Mayo highlights. Want pub crawls? NYC’s crawls over the weekend are large and many. For $20, you can drink cheap at dozens of NYC bars; for $30, continue your crawl all day on May 6.  You’re sure to find a celebration in this city that never sleeps.

 #2 Denver, Colorado – Cinco de Mayo “Celebrate Culture” Festival

Over 400,000 attend this mile-high celebration over the weekend. Mexican music, food, and arts highlight this two day party in the Rockies. The gathering boasts three large stages with continuous entertainment, featuring Cumba, Salsa, Mariachi, Norteno and many other genres of Latino music and dance. As you stroll through Civic Center Park, check out vendors displaying Mexican folk art and handcrafted goods.

 #1 Los Angeles, California – Fiesta Broadway Festival

Regarded as the largest Cinco de Mayo celebration in the world, over 500,000 are predicted to make their way to downtown LA for music, food and games. Attractions are spread across 24 square blocks in downtown Los Angeles. Fiesta Broadway features live music on three stages, festival food and drink booths, community booths, arts and crafts, and cultural events.  This year the 23^rd annual Fiesta Broadway is on Saturday, April 29.

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This week on California Life  find out why people tend to look like their dogs  then we’ll go underground to one of the coolest places in Fresno  plus our thoughts on the great pre-K debate plus an old time favorite resurfacing two decades later and which cult classic is headed to the small-screen despite a handful of the main characters being killed off in the film! We’re bringing you all this plus more this week airing statewide on California Life with Heather Dawson. Have you “liked” us yet? www.facebook.com/californialifehd

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Unseasonably warm weather is making this early spring season difficult for millions of Americans who suffer from asthma and allergies. To help adults and children who are experiencing symptoms find out if they are at risk, Los Angeles- and Orange County-area allergists will be conducting free asthma and nasal allergy screenings in your area beginning in May. Screening dates in your area include:

May 1, 9:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., Marina Del Rey Hospital, 4644 Lincoln Blvd., 1st Floor Conference Room, Marina Del Rey

May 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Warner Brothers Studio Lot, 4000 Warner Blvd., Commissary, Burbank

May 19, 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., Palos Verdes Half Marathon & 5K, Terranea Resort, 6610 Palos Verdes Drive South, Rancho Palos Verdes

May 20, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Huntington Beach Duck-A-Thon, Huntington Beach Pier, 1 Main St., Huntington Beach

June 2, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Walmart Pharmacy, 8230 Talbert Ave., Huntington Beach

These screenings are part of the 16^th annual Nationwide Asthma Screening Program, sponsored by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI).

For those already diagnosed with any of the conditions, the screening provides the chance to ensure their condition is under control.

Attached is a news release on the screening program. We hope you can help us raise awareness of this important public service campaign this year. We would be happy to arrange an inteview with a Southern California allergist who could discuss the importance of these screenings.