Discover Our Town

The Valley of Fire: Truly Amazing!

The most beautiful drive I’ve ever taken was on State Route 169—or more specifically, the part of the highway that went through the Valley of Fire State Park. It was breathtaking! I’m telling you, as far as state parks go, this one is a must-see—especially if you’re visiting Las Vegas, where it’s situated only 55 miles away. That’s less than an hour by car, and even quicker by helicopter.

  The most memorable thing from my trip to the Valley of Fire was being greeted by amazing rock formations—the likes of which I’ve never seen before. I felt as if I were getting the red carpet treatment, but here, instead of flashbulbs, everywhere I looked there were rocks gleaming in a variety of gorgeous shades of red. And would you believe these beautiful rocks are always changing? With the movement of the sun, their colors deepen and their shadows alter, making the formations take on totally different appearances from sunrise to sunset.

My first stop was to the Valley of Fire State Park Visitor Center. The staff is very friendly and I got a little inside information about the park’s background and geology. I always find I enjoy things more when armed with knowledge. I also discovered there are a ton of things to do at the Valley of Fire—from hiking and picnicking to camping. You can even cool off with a swim at Rogers Springs or Lake Mead, which are located nearby.

Another highlight of my visit to the Valley of Fire was doing the short, fairly easy White Domes loop trail. It’s just over a mile long, and I remember passing through several unique settings during the trek. I navigated rocks on a dry wash bed, scuttled on soft sand and even entered a narrow canyon—where the red rocks dazzled me yet again. About halfway through, I came across the remains of the film set from The Professionals, which was shot at the park in 1966. That was much better than viewing movie memorabilia at a museum and it cost less!

Of course, I highly recommend a drive on the six-mile scenic loop where you’ll find that many of the Valley of Fire’s most popular rock formations (like Arch Rock) are just steps away. It’s a somewhat rough unpaved road, but well worth the bumpiness as you can drive right up to most of them. Many are named for animals or other objects—such as the Beehives, Atlatl Rock and Elephant Rock—although in some cases the resemblance is a bit of a stretch. I did like the Seven Sisters formation, which is a beautiful grouping of tall, red boulders in the midst of the flat desert. These rocks had an eerily sacred presence that gave me a feeling of inner peace and tranquility.

Overall, you cannot beat the natural beauty of the Valley of Fire. It’s a great place to visit. I know you won’t be disappointed.

Written by Travel Gal, Renee Libutti

The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon:
A Larger-Than-Life Experience

I was born and raised in Las Vegas, which is located a mere 300 miles from the Grand Canyon.  That’s a four-hour drive by car, and less than an hour flight by helicopter. Since the Grand Canyon was right here in my backyard, I never felt a pressing urge to visit—even though it’s one of the most written about and most photographed places on Earth. I just assumed I’d get around to it some day.

Well, some day finally came. I won’t tell you my age—but suffice to say, my Grand Canyon visit was at least 30 years overdue. Just a few years ago, I went on a bus tour to the canyon’s popular South Rim. I don’t really know how to describe the experience, as nothing prepared me for the feeling of awe I had upon walking up to the first of several different viewpoints that day. Basically, I just gazed out at the grand expanse. I think the sheer enormity of it is what took my breath away. In fact, its size actually makes visiting seem daunting. Did you know the Grand Canyon National Park covers more than a million acres of gorgeous geography? You’d need two weeks to properly take all that in. My day trip soon began to feel terribly inadequate.

Thus, two years ago, my boyfriend and I booked a late-afternoon helicopter tour to Grand Canyon West, which is even closer to Las Vegas, situated only 140 miles away. I’d never been on a helicopter, so it was quite a rush when it lifted up and looped above the Strip. I saw some amazing views of the Las Vegas valley, Hoover Dam and Lake Mead. Eventually, the helicopter came over some jagged cliffs and there the Grand Canyon laid—a spectacular vision with the fading sun reflecting in the clouds. Seeing the terrain and the more-than-a-mile drops below me was mind-blowing…and, then we descended into the canyon, some 1,500 feet beneath the rim! The whole experience was surreal.

The thing is I’m not finished with the Grand Canyon. I still want to see more of it. I’ve got a longing to hike to the canyon floor, and perhaps to raft down the Colorado River. I’d also like to set foot on the North Rim.

All I can say is no matter how you do it, you should definitely visit the Grand Canyon—at least once. Everything is dramatic around the plateaus and beneath the river-carved rim. And everything is big, including the experience you’ll have in this vast, legendary expanse. If you’re anything like me, you’ll surely get addicted!

Written by Travel Gal, Renee Libutti

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Ricky and Lucy’s Country Greenhouse has herbs evaluated by Whole Foods Market

Ricky and Lucy’s Country Greenhouse recently had their organically grown herbs and spices evaluated by Whole Foods Market. The herbs were assessed across three different categories; appearance, taste, and price. The herb blends received high marks from Whole Foods Market in each of the three categories. Whole Foods Market has over 270 stores across the nation and in Great Britain, and is the leading retail store for organically and naturally raised foods. Four other evaluators, including GROW Nebraska , also gave the herbs high marks.

Ricky and Lucy’s Country Greenhouse is owned and operated by Dan and Teri Wolff. It is located 7 miles northeast of Sidney, NE on ten sprawling acres. It boasts over 70 herb and spice blends, all of which are 100% organic. Most of the herbs are grown at the greenhouse in its 20+ gardens, which provide the perfect backdrop for a delightful afternoon stroll. Herbs are hand-harvested and processed right in the greenhouse’s kitchen. Simple herbs such as cilantro and minced garlic are available, but more adventurous customers often go for one of the original blends. Try the new Olive Rub, which is fabulous as dipping oil, or go for the Moroccan Blend for a great and simple way to kick cooked vegetables up a notch.

Organically grown trees, shrubs, vegetables, houseplants, perennials, and annuals are also offered at the  greenhouse. The four greenhouses are loaded with beautiful and unique plants that are well suited to grow in western Nebraska . Fresh, locally grown produce is offered throughout the growing season with a “pick your own” option for some types. While at the greenhouse, you can also peruse the selection of organic fertilizers, fungicides, and pesticides, as well as earth-friendly cleaning and bath and body products. Dan and Teri also make an annual trip to Mexico, where they hand-select pieces of original pottery and cast iron crafts to be sold at the greenhouse. 

The Nebraska Travel and Tourism Division recently visited Ricky and Lucy’s Country Greenhouse. The Division identified the greenhouse as a “magnet attraction” for Cheyenne County , that is, a primary reason why people visit a particular city or area. They suggested conducting group tours of the greenhouse that would include a demonstration, such as hand harvesting and processing herbs, and a free spice sample. They also proposed including visits to the greenhouse in tour packages.

Ricky and Lucy’s Country Greenhouse is open seven days a week from 9-6 in the summer and 9-5 in the winter, it is located at 11732 Road 32. For more information, or to shop on-line visit their new website at www.rickyandlucysgreenhouse.com or call (308) 254-2204.

Second Annual National Trails Day Event

Redwood Adventures Hosts Successful

Second Annual National Trails Day Event

ORICK, Calif. - June 10, 2008 - On Saturday, June 7, 2008, more than 100 tourists, vendors and event staffers enjoyed a local National Trails Day event full of guided biking and hiking tours, gear demonstrations, food and music at the Redwood Adventures Center, a vacation resort bordering the Redwood National and State Parks.

"With the weather cooperating with us, this year's National Trails Day event was a tremendous success." said Grant Roden, general manager for Redwood Adventures Tours. "Folks from as far away as Japan and as close as our next door neighbors came to enjoy the tours, food and local entertainment. We are grateful to all the sponsors and vendors who set up booths and provided tours for our guests."

Exhibitions and demonstrations were presented by Redwood National Park, The Outdoor Store, ProSports Center, Duncan Woods, Lowell Cottle Photography, Designs By Sandra, The Joggin Shop, Kayak Zaks and The FunBus. Event participants also enjoyed local bluegrass group, The Bucky Walters Band, while eating a BBQ lunch sponsored by The Orick Chamber of Commerce.

Hosted by Redwood Adventures at the Redwood Adventures Events Center, the annual National Trails Day celebration was designed to inspire the public to discover the trails in and around the Redwood National and State Parks and, learn about and celebrate the area while participating in numerous outdoor activities.

"This part of California is as beautiful today as it was when I used to visit it as a kid," said Michael Mosby from Pro Sports Center. "It has the most impressive beaches, mountains and rivers. The success of events like this prove people want to get outside and enjoy this area."

Redwood Adventures' National Trails Day is part of the American Hiking Society's National Trails Day, where more than one million hikers, bikers, equestrians and others celebrate America's trails. While the American Hiking Society helps to promote events nationally, the majority of events are planned and carried out at the local level by conservation and recreation organizations, trail clubs and land management agencies. www.americanhiking.org

About Redwood Adventures Tours
Redwood Adventures Tours, a division of Redwood Parks Lodge Company, is one of a few companies permitted to conduct guided tours within the Redwood National and State Parks. Available tours range from one-hour orientation tours to customizable day tours and multi-night backcountry adventures. For more information or to book a tour please visit www.redwoodadventures.com or call 866-733-9637.

About Redwood Parks Lodge Company
Based in Orick, California and formed in 2002, Redwood Parks Lodge Company, Inc. is poised to become the leading lodging, hospitality and entertainment company serving outdoor lovers, vacationers, adventurers and travelers visiting the Redwood National and State Parks. The company owns approximately 68 acres of land on three parcels adjacent to or near the Redwood Parks system and bordered by Highway 101 in Orick.

The company's first phase development is completed, and it has totally refurbished six existing sawmill employee houses into luxurious, 1,200-square foot vacation cabins at Redwood Adventures Village, with each cabin featuring three bedrooms, 1.5 baths, a full kitchen, a living room, an attached garage and more. Additionally, the company has secured permission to conduct guided tours, hikes and excursions throughout Redwood Parks and Humboldt County, as well as hold special events/festival services within the parks system.

In the future, Redwood Parks Lodge Company plans to develop a luxury lodge, resort hotels/meeting centers, restaurants, stores and recreational facilities on its three properties adjacent to/surrounded by Redwood National and State Parks. For more information, please visit www.redwoodadventures.com or call 866-733-9637.

Redwood Adventures Announces the Second Annual National Trails Day

  ORICK, Calif. - April 17, 2008 - Redwood Adventures, a division of Redwood Parks Lodge Company, today announced it will host its the Second Annual National Trails Day, in conjunction with the American Hiking Society, on June 7, 2008 at the Redwood Adventure Center, located approximately three miles north of Orick, Calif., on Highway 101.

"Last year's National Trails Day event was enjoyed by more than 200 local residents and park visitors, alike," said Grant Roden, general manager for Redwood Adventures Tours. "Families and individuals took advantage of local trails by participating in bike rides, horseback rides, kayak trips and interpretive hikes guided by wildlife experts and biologists. With additional tours, new businesses participating in the festival and local entertainment, this year's event is shaping up to be just as successful."

The National Trails Day celebration is designed to inspire the public to visit the trails in and  around the Redwood National and State Parks and to discover, learn about and celebrate the area while participating in guided tours, gear demonstrations, educational exhibits, art, food and music. New tours for 2008 include a history tour of Orick in the Fun Bus, a cross-country fun run and a Native American interpretive hike, among others.

Exhibitions and demonstrations will be presented by health professionals, schools, historical societies, hospitals, transportation planners, youth groups, natural history educators, businesses, artists, environmental organizations, senior citizen groups, fitness programs and other community-based organizations and associations.

Redwood Adventures' National Trails Day is part of the American Hiking Society's National Trails Day, where more than one million hikers, bikers, equestrians and others celebrate America's trails. While the American Hiking Society helps to promote events nationally, the majority of events are planned and carried out at the local level by conservation and recreation organizations, trail clubs and land management agencies. www.americanhiking.org

Space is limited on the tours. To reserve a spot, please email Grant Roden at grant@teamredwood.us.

For more information about National Trails Day hosted by Redwood Adventures (i.e. locations and details of the different tours, hikes and rides), please visit www.redwoodadventures.com.

About Redwood Adventures Tours
Redwood Adventures Tours, a division of Redwood Parks Lodge Company is one of a few companies permitted to conduct guided tours within the Redwood National and State Parks. Available tours range from one-hour orientation tours to customizable day tours and multi-night backcountry adventures. For more information or to book a tour please visit www.redwoodadventures.com or call 866-733-9637.

About Redwood Parks Lodge Company
Based in Orick, California and formed in 2002, Redwood Parks Lodge Company, Inc. is poised to become the leading lodging, hospitality and entertainment company serving outdoor lovers, vacationers, adventurers and travelers visiting the Redwood National and State Parks. The company owns approximately 68 acres of land on three parcels adjacent to or near the Redwood Parks system and bordered by Highway 101 in Orick.

The company's first phase development is completed, and it has totally refurbished six existing sawmill employee houses into luxurious, 1,200-square foot vacation cabins at Redwood Adventures Village, with each cabin featuring three bedrooms, 1.5 baths, a full kitchen, a living room, an attached garage and more. Additionally, the company has secured permission to conduct guided tours, hikes and excursions throughout Redwood Parks and Humboldt County, as well as hold special events/festival services within the parks system.

In the future, Redwood Parks Lodge Company plans to develop a luxury lodge, resort hotels/meeting centers, restaurants, stores and recreational facilities on its three properties adjacent to/surrounded by Redwood National and State Parks. For more information, please visit www.redwoodparkslodge.com or www.redwoodadventures.com, or call 866-733-9637.

Dinner/Show package - Little Fish Theatre San Pedro CA

              Little Fish Theatre Don't forget our Dinner/Show package!

Little Fish Theatre offers an exciting banquet of thrilling, thought-provoking & captivating plays, - a veritable smorgasbord. And we're serving up a variety of ticket packages to tantalize discerning tastes.

CRIMES OF THE HEART
by Beth Henley - directed by Melanie Jones
Apr 18 - May 24 It's busting at the seams with childhood jealousies, unrequited love, & a lifelong vendetta.

Little Fish Theatre, 777 Centre Street at 8th, San Pedro, CA. Entrance & Parking is provided behind the theatre, accessed through the alley between 7th & 8th Street.
Visit our website at www.whaleandale.com for even more information.

CABARET NIGHT at the Grand Vision Event Center San Pedro, CA

CABARET NIGHT

Saturday, April 5, RECEPTION

6:00 p.m. - Appetizers & Desserts, at the Grand Vision Event Center 434 W 6th St. San Pedro
$50.00 Donation includes both Reception  & Cabaret Movie Tickets for Four
To RSVP & pay by credit card, call (310) 833-4813

CABARET
7:30 p.m. Introduction by Michael York (invited)
8:00 p.m. - Cabaret (the movie)
Warner Grand Theatre, - 478 W. 6th St.
San Pedro

Film proceeds benefit Grand Vision Foundation;

Come in costume & stay for the midnight screening of the Rocky Horror Picture Show!

Tickets to Rocky Horror are $9.50/$15 gets you in to both shows if you're in costume.

Mural Unveiling & Reception - First Thursday is April 3, 2008

First Thursday is April 3, 2008
In addition to our regular menu, and Patty and Dayton Borders' music all evening, without a cover charge, there's the  three course 'starving artists' menu that night is a mere $22!
Our renowned 'house' Whale & Ale salad.

(Don't forget we now bottle and sell David's exceptional salad dressing!)

Linguini tossed with peas & real prosciutto in cream sauce

Coupe Rossini: Fresh seasonal berries with mascarpone cheese, a splash of sweet Muscat wine and raspberry sorbet.

...the very same night: (First Thursday) "Last Night All My Friends Had the Same Dream"
Please join the volunteers, staff and friends of Grand Vision for an Artist Reception and Mural Unveiling on First Thursday, April 3, 2008 at 7 p.m. celebrating the completion of a mural by noted Harbor Area artist Aaron White entitled "Last Night All My Friends Had The Same Dream."  The mural also includes contributions by artists Victor Gastelum, Craig Ibarra, Hanadi Chawaf & Scott Aicher. Hope to see you there!
Mural Unveiling & Reception

Mural by Aaron White and Guest Artists: Victor Gastelum, Craig Ibarra, Hanadi Chawaf & Scott Aicher
Reception 7 p.m. - Refreshments & Music
Access mural by walking through the building or from the  5th St. public parking lot behind the Warner Grand Theatre. 
434 W. Sixth Street, San Pedro, Thursday, April 3, 2008 at 7 p.m.

The Backbeats at The Whale & Ale, San Pedro, CA

The Backbeats are back on Sunday, February 10, 2008 at The Whale & Ale!

Two sets: 6 to 8 and 9 to 11. Southern California’s best Beatles tribute band, by far.

Sit back relax and enjoy a great evening at The Whale & Ale, San Pedro, CA.

Pick of the Vine at The Little Fish Theatre San Pedro, CA

Where can you see eight plays for the price of one admission? At the Pick of the Vine:- 2008's short play harvest. Directed by Mark Piatelli, Melanie Jones & Richard Perloff
Jan 11 - Feb 9
RUNS FRI & SAT @ 8PM; SUN 1/27 & 2/3 @ 7PM; THU 1/24* & 2/7 @ 8PM | Buy Tickets

A zany, poignant, winning bouquet of the choicest, new, short plays. There's something for everyone as POV 2008 journeys with hungry vegans, questioning monks, bugs in a jar, & people with secrets to reveal.

FEATURED WORKS: Normal by Jami Brandli - Unhealthy Appetites by Steven Korbar - A Case of Anxiety & In the Jar by Mark Harvey Levine - Maryanne by David Lewison - War Zones & Wal Marts by Chris Mandia - The Answer by Cary Pepper - Water Under the Bridge by Trevor Suthers - Bankin' On The Grand by Chris Shaw Swanson

Produced by Caroline Benzon.