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Josh Groban, Corbin Bleu, Many More at ‘Future Arts Gala’ for LA County High School For The Arts on Saturday March 18th

By Kelsey Ridley — 2 years ago

Josh Groban, Corbin Bleu, Many More at ‘Future Arts Gala’ for LA County High School For The Arts on Saturday March 18th

LA County High School for the Arts (LACHSA), the number one arts high school in America, is hosting its 6^th Annual Future Artists Gala on Saturday, March 18^th, 2023

Takes place at the AVALON Hollywood, one of Hollywood’s most historic landmarks, spotlighting special celebrity guests, exciting student performances, exclusive auction items from internationally renowned LACHSA artists, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, cocktails, delectable food, and much more!

Future Artists Gala Hosted by Corbin Bleu

The Future Artists Gala will feature world-class entertainment by some of the most talented student artists in LA County in music, theatre, cinematic arts, dance, and visual arts.

LACHSA alum Corbin Bleu (High School Musical and the Tony-nominated Kiss Me Kate on Broadway) will be the host for the evening.

‘Future Arts Gala’ for LA County High School For The Arts incredible line-up

Tony Barbieri from Jimmy Kimmel Live! will serve as live auction host.

LACHSA Luminary Award Honoree Josh Groban

Tony®, EMMY®, and four-time GRAMMY®-nominated LACHSA alum Josh Groban will be honored with the LACHSA Luminary Award and Warner Bros.

TelevisionGroup Chairman and CEO, Channing Dungey, will be honored with the LACHSA Arts Advocate Award.

This incredible evening will also feature a special performance by LACHSA alum Michael Fitzpatrick of Fitz and the Tantrums.

Renowned actor, writer, and LACHSA Foundation Board Member, Melina Kanakaredes is this year’s event producer.

The event raises funds to directly support the tuition-free arts education and programming at LA County High School for the Arts.

Renowned actor, writer, and LACHSA Foundation Board Member, Melina Kanakaredes is this year’s event producer.

Founded almost 40 years ago, LACHSA, is one of America’s premiere public arts high schools for student artists whose undeniable talent and fearlessly authentic voices change the world. LACHSA is a conservatory-style incubator in dance, music, theatre, visual arts, and cinematic arts, that nurtures and mentors its students in transformational ways. LACHSA has developed some of the finest talent in the world, with graduates including Josh Groban, Corbin Bleu, Phoebe Bridgers, Clea DuVall, HAIM, Angel Blue, Jenna Elfman, Marla Sokoloff, Taran Killam, Zoey Deutch, Andrew Chappelle, Finn Wittrock, Josefina López, Robert Vargas, Kehinde Wiley, Matthew Rushing, Charm La’Donna, and many more.

Guests of this year’s Future Artists Gala will enjoy handcrafted cocktails, delectable food, and specially curated art experiences throughout the AVALON Hollywood prior to the main event and performance, and a private After Party inside Bardot, the AVALON Hollywood’selegant deco lounge will conclude the evening. Additionally, there will be a live and silent auction highlighting exclusive items and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, many from renowned LACHSA alumni artists, making this exceptional event an evening of celebration to directly support the future artists and changemakers of Los Angeles County and help keep high-quality free public arts education accessible to any student with talent and a dream.

Ticket Information: The Future Artists Gala will take place on Saturday, March 18^th, 2023, at the AVALON Hollywood starting at 6:30 pm. For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or to purchase tickets to the LACHSA Future Artists Gala, please visit www.lachsagala23.org. Livestream viewing will also be available.

LA County High School for the Arts (LACHSA) as the #1 Arts High School in the Country

Ranked as the #1 Arts High School in the Country by Niche.com, the LA County High School for the Arts (LACHSA) offers a specialized program combining college-preparatory academic instruction and conservatory-style training in the visual and performing arts.

Founded in 1985, the tuition-free public school is run by the Los Angeles County Office of Education on the campus of California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA). LACHSA serves 600 culturally and socioeconomically diverse teens from more than 80 school districts in the county. LACHSA students are consistently recognized as top performers in nationwide competitions such as YoungArts, the Music Center Spotlight Awards and Next Generation Jazz Festival.

LAHSA Students come from every part of Los Angeles County and exemplify its wide-ranging diversity. Working with professional teaching artists to sharpen their critical thinking and strengthen their skills, LACHSA students develop the confidence to courageously share their art. They go on to attend top colleges and arts conservatory programs and establish themselves as leaders in their chosen fields of art and study. LACHSA graduates frequently attend schools such as The Julliard School, Berklee College of Music, California Institute of the Arts (CalArts),NYU Tisch School of the Arts, Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), Oberlin College and Conservatory, Yale University, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, University of Southern California, University of Michigan, and Carnegie Mellon University. Without exception. LACHSAstudents become the significant artists and individuals they were always meant to be.

Your St. Patrick’s Day Starts with a stiff Irish Coffee, from Volcanica Coffee

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Your St. Patrick’s Day Starts with a stiff Irish Coffee, from Volcanica Coffee

By Marty Neehin — 2 years ago

Kick off St. Patrick’s Day with a stiff Irish Coffee and keep the celebration going late night with an Irish Espresso Martini.

Volcanica Coffee recipes are below that will give the good luck of the Irish!

Volcanica Coffee St Pattys Day has suggestions

VOLCANICA COFFEE’S IRISH ESPRESSO MARTINI RECIPE

1.5 oz of Irish Whiskey

½ oz of coffee liqueur

½ oz of Bailey’s Irish Cream

2 oz of cooled espresso using Volcanica Coffee’s Café Cubano Miami Espresso Blend

In a shaker glass, pour in your ingredients. Fill with ice and shake until shaker is frosty.
Strain into martini glass.

VOLCANICA COFFEE’S IRISH COFFEE RECIPE

1½ to 2 oz (45 to 60ml) Irish whiskey, to taste

4 oz (120ml) fresh-brewed Dark Roast Costa Rica Nespresso Coffee Pods

1 tablespoon brown sugar

2 oz (60ml) heavy cream, very cold

Unsweetened cocoa powder, for garnish

Instructions:

Fill the cups with hot water to warm them up.
Whip the cold cream until thick, but not stiff; it should still be able to run off of a spoon. Set aside. Tip: The key to success for whipped cream is to keep it very cold, so put your whisk and a stainless steel bowl in the freezer for 10 minutes before.
Pour the warm water out of the coffee mugs. Fill ¾ full with coffee, add the brown sugar and stir well until dissolved. Add a few drops of coffee into the whipped cream and stir to combine.
Add the whiskey into coffee and stir to combine.

Hold a spoon upside down over the coffee, the tip touching the glass edge and the surface of coffee. Gently pour the cream over the back of the spoon, allowing it to gently pool on top of the coffee; filling to the top of the mug. Do not stir. You should obtain a lovely layering that looks like a pint of Guiness!
Using a stenciled shamrock, sprinkle cocoa powder over the cream to make a beautiful drawing.

Volcanica Coffee is a specialty coffee roaster

Volcanica Coffee is a specialty coffee roaster that imports 150+ exotic coffees from volcanic regions around the world. The mineral-rich soil from volcanic regions produces coffee that is aromatic and remarkable in taste. The company carries a broad line of estate, peaberry, decaf and flavored coffees.

Volcanica Coffee’s website offers subscription and individual purchases. For more information, visit www.VolcanicaCoffee.com

Los Angeles's Akasha Presents Dine-In Seder and Two Nights of Passover TakeOut

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Los Angeles’s Akasha Presents Dine-In Seder and Two Nights of Passover TakeOut

By Marty Neehin — 2 years ago

Los Angeles’s Akasha Presents Dine-In Seder and Two Nights of Passover TakeOut

Join AKASHA and Rabbi Mark Borovitz for a Passover Seder on April 6

Chef Akasha Richmond Packages Her Acclaimed Holiday Dishes for Four or More Celebrating an “At Home” Jewish Holiday with a Portion of Service Charge

Akasha Passover Benefit World Central Kitchen for Ukraine

Chef/Owner Akasha Richmond, Partner Alan Schulman of AKASHA RESTAURANT

Akasha Richmond and Partner Alan Schulman’s AKASHA present their annual Passover Seder on Thursday, April 6, 2023, and Passover To-Go for takeout and delivery on April 4 and 5, 2023.

Guests attending AKASHA for Passover Seder will congregate the second night of the holiday for a reception, followed by an informal service led by Rabbi Mark Borovitz.

The complete dinner with Akasha’s specialties follows.

Pricing for the Seder is $145, including wine and beverages; $65 for children under 10. Reserved ticketing is available on TOCK.

Celebrate Akasha Passover with At-Home Selections

For at-home celebrations, AKASHA offers à la carte selections designed for two-four adults (or more with children). All dishes are ready-to-heat to make it as easy to enjoy Passover in a family setting.

Passover food rules are strictly followed, and the dinner is “Kosher Style,” containing no dairy. A portion of the service charge will be given to World Central Kitchen, which is serving thousands of fresh meals to Ukrainian families fleeing home as well as people remaining in the country.

PASSOVER SEDER AT AKASKA

Thursday, April 6, 2023

Reception starts at 6:15 p.m., Seder & Dinner at 7:00 p.m.
Seder led by Rabbi Mark Borovitz

Reception
Chopped Chicken Liver • Green Bean & Walnut Faux “Liver”
matzoh & gluten-free matzoh

Seder Plate

matzoh & gluten-free matzoh

Dinner
Sephardic Fish Balls
tunisian tomato sauce & meyer lemon horseradish

•
Akasha’s Matzoh Ball Soup
fresh dill & carrots

•

Entrees – Choose One

Red Wine-Braised Creekstone Farms’ Brisket
rainbow carrots & potato pancakes
•
Chicken Tagine with Caramelized Onions & Preserved Lemon
rainbow carrots & potato pancakes
•
Matzo Meal-Baked Eggplant

almond cheese & cashew ‘parm”
nonna’s tomato sauce, cauliflower with capers & raisins, baby artichokes

•

Dessert – Family Style
flourless citrus-almond cake & berries
chocolate-dipped coconut macaroons & meringues

Pricing & Details

Adults, $145 – includes wine or juice, coffee & tea

Children under ten, $65 – includes grape juice
Exclusive of tax & 22% service charge

Tickets available on TOCK. Seating is very limited.

Passover food rules are strictly followed

Dinner is prepared “Kosher Style” and contains no dairy.
Vegetarian entrée contains eggs & gluten.

***

AKASHA PASSOVER TO-GO

Pickup & Delivery on April 4 & 5, 2023

Essentials

everything you need for the seder

seder plate

everything for the seder plate – roasted shank bone
roasted egg, haroset, parsley, horseradish, lettuce, sea salt, (for salt water), $20.00

box of matzo

kosher for passover matzo, $9.00

sephardic haroset

dates, apricots, raisins, honey, pistachios, almonds, walnuts, orange, spices
1/2 pint, (serves 4), $16.00

beet horseradish

roasted beets, horseradish, lemon
1/2 pint (serves 4-6), $7.00

Appetizers & Starters

akasha’s chopped chicken liver

mary’s chicken liver, caramelized onions & eggs,

1 pint, (serves 2-4) gluten-free, $18.00

vegetarian mock ‘liver’

green beans, walnuts, cashews, caramelized onions

1 pint, (serves 2-4) gluten-free, $16.00

matzo ball soup

chicken broth, carrots, celery, herbs
two matzo balls (serves 2), $18.00

vegetarian matzo ball soup

vegetable broth, carrots, celery root, herbs
two matzo balls (serves 2), $18.00

Entrees & Sides

passover brisket

grass-fed beef braised with onions, tomatoes, & red wine
(serves 4) gluten-free, $85.00

chicken tagine

braised chicken thighs with onions, golden raisins, preserved lemon

1 & 1/2 lbs chicken thighs
(serves 4), gluten-free, $60.00

matzo eggplant bake

olive oil & matzo meal roasted eggplant, nonna’s tomato sauce, basil
almond ricotta cheese, cashew ‘parmesan’
(serves 4) vegan (contains nuts), $70.00

potato pancakes-1/2 dozen

yukon gold potato pancakes, fried in olive oil
come frozen for reheating, gluten-free, $15.00

applesauce

house-made from local apples
1 pint, $12.00

roasted asparagus & leeks
serves 4, vegan & gluten-free, $35.00

rainbow carrots with olive oil & dill
serves 4, vegan & gluten-free, $24.00

Desserts

all desserts are made following “Passover” food rules
everything is gluten & dairy-free.

citrus almond cake

apricot & orange glaze
gluten-free , contains nuts, (serves 4-6), $24.00

coconut macaroons

3 chocolate-dipped & 3 plain macaroons
gluten-free, $12.00

chocolate matzo toffee

brown sugar & vegan butter toffee matzo crunch, semi-sweet chocolate, cacao nibs, sea salt
vegan & gluten-free, $20.00

Pricing for AKASHA’s Passover To-Go is priced à la carte; deadline to order is 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 29, 2023. All orders can be placed on TOCK with pick-up times throughout the day. Delivery is also available by DoorDash servicing the area. For further information, the public may call the restaurant at 310.845.1700.

LA Financial Guru Michael Dodo is Living His American Dream with The Dodo Group

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LA Financial Guru Michael Dodo is Living His American Dream with The Dodo Group

By Contributor — 2 years ago

LA Financial Guru Michael Dodo is Living His American Dream

Los Angeles based financier Michael Dodo is fast becoming one of the most sought-after venture capitalists for a range of businesses in need of private equity investment and acute corporate leadership. The Founder and CEO of both The Dodo Group, and beauty brand conglomerate Luxury Brands LLC., he successfully identifies, restructures, nurtures, and drives formerly struggling businesses into financially stable, sustainable, and successful global companies.

Born and raised in Johannesburg South Africa, Michael Dodo earned his Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of South Africa before launching his career in finance at the Mercantile National Bank of South Africa. With his eye sharply affixed on immigrating to America, and with a mere $300 in his pocket, he arrived in Los Angeles and was soon recruited by Tag-It Pacific, a garment hang tag and label production company, first as their Controller and then quickly promoted to VP of Finance and Operations. He was not only instrumental in taking the company public, but also ran both their Hong Kong and Mexican divisions before parting ways in 2001.

Financial Guru Michael Dodo / photography by David Christopher Lee

He, and a business partner, then purchased Triple L Distribution, a company which soon became the second largest redistributor of dry grocery and equipment supplies to the food service industry in the West. Under Michael’s direction, TLD successfully maintained a fleet of 70 tractor trailers and 5 fully stocked warehouse locations, and the company grew from $16 million to $128 million in annual revenue. He was then approached to step in as CEO of FHI Heat, a prominent professional grade hair tool company, to restructure and cultivate the brand. Shortly thereafter, he purchased West Central Produce, later known as West Central Foodservice, growing the company into one of the largest premium wholesale food, beverage, and restaurant supply distributors on the West Coast, with sales topping $300M per year.

In 2017, he launched his first of two conglomerates – Luxury Brands LLC., positioned as a parent company for beauty, luxury, and lifestyle consumer brands. FHI Heat, and sibling haircare brands STYLUS, NEO BOND, Hair Veil and Daily Beauty, were strategically placed under the Luxury Brands LLC. corporate umbrella., and last spring, Michael’s latest acquisition Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics and Skincare was purchased out of Chapter 11 bankruptcy and added to his growing beauty brand portfolio.

Financial Guru Michael Dodo / photography by David Christopher Lee

Michael’s namesake conglomerate – The Dodo Group, has focus in F&B, a space which Michael has significant career experience. Lodi Canning Company, a 100-year-old plus, farm-to-table vegetable canning company, and Wateria, a 25-year-old, 15-step Drinking Water Purification System both sit under DG and are currently scaling at a tremendous rate.

To say that Michael Dodo has optimized the “American Dream” is an understatement, and we look forward to acutely following his success for many years to come.

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The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience 2023 runs June 7 – 11

By Joe Winger — 2 years ago

The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience 2023 runs June 7 – 11 Uncorks Grand Plan and New Venue

The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience announces that a limited number of exclusive ticket packages and all individual event tickets are now on sale for the five-day event set for June 7 – 11.

“This year, we have enhanced our three big events—

Vinola, Tournament of Rosés, and our Grand Tasting…

making them bigger and better than ever before and moving them to new venues,” said Aimee Brown, NOWFE Executive Director.

“In response to high demand, we have added special ticket packages for those attendees looking to spend a few days with us.

And, for the many locals that love to attend our events, we offer the individual ticket option to fit personal schedules and lifestyles.”

Vinola at the The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience

Vinola, the highest-level tasting event NOWFE offers, kicks off at the historic Orpheum Theater on Thursday, June 8, at 6 pm.

Foodies and oenophiles of all experience levels will sample rare and highly valued wines expertly paired with delectable foods crafted by local chefs. Winemakers will present elite wines from around the world, and award-winning chefs will serve and talk about their food and what inspires them in its creation. Guests will have the chance to have one-on-one conversations with winemakers and chefs. Tickets are $215 each. VIP tickets are $280 and include 30-minute early entry and VIP lounge access.

Tournament of Rosés

Back for the fifth year, the Tournament of Rosés is moving to The Fillmore on Friday, June 9th, at 7:00 PM. Tickets to this special event are $129 per person.

The Tournament of Rosés offers guests a unique opportunity to taste premier rosés, both still and sparkling, from France, Spain, Italy, the United States, and the Southern Hemisphere, and then cast a vote for a favorite.

Best of Show, Gold, Silver, Bronze and the People’s Choice Award will be announced.

New this year, a specialty sparkling sector featuring bubbles beyond the Rosé realm and a spirited cocktail garden. Tasty bites will accompany each wine served. Guests are encouraged to come “dressed to impress” with a touch of pink. VIPs gain 30 minutes of early access to this event.

Grand Tasting at the The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience

Also, new this year, NOWFE will host one Grand Tasting on Saturday, June 10, from 3 – 6 pm at Generations Hall. General Admission tickets are $149 before event week when they increase to $169. The Grand Tasting VIP a la carte price is $215 per person and includes early admission at 2:30 pm and access to a VIP lounge. The Grand Tasting at NOWFE showcases wines from around the world and food served by New Orleans’ finest chefs.

NOWFE once again closes its 5-day event with Burlesque, Bubbly & Brunch on Sunday, June 11, from 11 am – 1 pm at the Omni Royal Orleans. Tickets to this titillating event are $95 each.

Join Trixie Minx and her Burlesque Beauties for a one-of-a-kind NOWFE experience with a plated brunch prepared by the chefs at the Omni Royal Orleans, bottomless sparkling wine by Luc Belair, and a burlesque performance you are sure to remember.

In addition to the special events, NOWFE presents its Labs and Experiences on Friday and Saturday. Five Labs will occur each day at the New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute at various times, while five boutique Experiences will occur over the two days throughout the city. Ticket prices vary for the Labs and Experiences.

The three levels of event ticket packages available this year are:

The Tasting Package — $258 per person

This package gives a “taste” of the main events this season. It includes entrance to:
· Tournament of Rosés
· The Grand Tasting

The Connoisseur Package — $793 per person

This package is for the wine and food enthusiast looking to be a part of the entire NOWFE experience. It includes 30 minutes of early entry and the following:

· Vinola

· Tournament of Rosés

· The Grand Tasting

· Choice of four (4) Labs

· 10% Discount on Additional Labs

· $20 Voucher to Use at NOWFE Merchandise Store

The VIP Package — $1000 per person

Upgrade to the VIP Package! This ticket allows you to experience the event at the highest level. It includes 30 minutes of early entry, access to VIP areas, and the following:

· Vinola

· Tournament of Rosés (early entry)

· The Grand Tasting (VIP)

· Choice of five (5) Labs (with priority seating)

· 10% Discount on Additional Labs

· $20 Voucher to Use at NOWFE Merchandise Store

For more information or to purchase additional tickets, visit nowfe.com.

Re-Discover delicious and romantic Southern Charm at Greenville, South Carolina

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Discover delicious and romantic Southern Charm at Greenville, South Carolina

By Joe Winger — 2 years ago

Discover delicious and romantic Southern Charm at Greenville, South Carolina

You’re looking for a new trip?

…A great foodie adventure?

…Big city perks

…But a mix of quaint and calm.

…inspiring scenery

…maybe a full-on spa weekend?

And let’s be honest, it needs to be easy to get to.

Not too much to ask for, right? LOL

Southern Charm at Greenville, South Carolina

Well, Greenville South Carolina hits all of those spots and more!

Southern charm with big city amenities. From flavor to fun to flirty.

Greenville, South Carolina is Southern charm with big city amenities.

The right amount of outdoors, arts, charming people watching and of course food. Different flavors and lots of it!

That’s Greenville. Plenty of South Carolina Southern Hospitality with a kick of sass and did we mention the food?

Fun Days and Starry-Filled Nights in Greenville South Carolina

From March through July, the town square stays busy with free concerts twice a week and at night catch a movie in the park.

Fun days in Greenville South Carolina

The center of town is just a short walk from most hotels, where you can wander Main St. and window shop at artisanal stores, book stores and coffee shops on the way to your next meal.

Reedy River

After a light bite, take a stroll along the park at Reedy River. Their new development is gorgeous and cozy. Several great spots for Instagram-worthy selfies.

Love a tasty cocktail?

Kinda curious how the whole whiskey process works?

Highly recommend Six and Twenty Distillery’s tour and tasting experience.

Six and Twenty Distillery’s tour

From malting to mashing to distillation. You can even pose for pictures with their giant pot still and become instagram famous.

It’s a fascinating process, but even more – meet the team. These folks love their work and it shows!

If you’re lucky enough to get a tour from Owner David Raad, he’ll help you fall in love with their process as they create just the right flavor for you.

And speaking of flavor.

You should get a tasting.

If Benjamin Balaban is behind the bar, you’re in for a treat. Curious drinkers, ask about the flavors, the garnishes, how his mixes are so balanced and flavorful.

Six and Twenty Distillery’s tasting experience

Keep the Flavors Coming with Oil & Vinegar

Stop in and say hello to Oil & Vinegar on Main St. Owner Chef Veera Gaul who will introduce you to the flavors, aromas and blends of oilsl like you’ve never realized before.

Oil & Vinegar on Main St. Owner Chef Veera Gaul

As a dipping sauce.

As a salad dressing.

In your health shake.

There’s a lot of ways to enjoy olive oil.

Taste through: The fruity and robust Nocellara EVOO. The deliciously oily Puglia. The vibrant Basil EVOO. The perfect to mix Mango Vinegar.

And that’s why visiting Oil & Vinegar on Main St. is so fun.

Oil & Vinegar on Main St. Greenville SC

Their tasting helps you fall in love with the magic and find a new flavor to take home with you.

From Family Fun to Romantic – Greenville’s Dinner Options

Greenville offers a feast of foodie options from down home to innovative chefs and world-class menus.

With more than 110 restaurants in downtown alone, and more than 1,000 throughout the County, Greenville, South Carolina’s abundant and tasty restaurant scene is garnering national attention.

Nose Dive restaurant in Greenville South Carolina

Nose Dive is an innovative gastropub were their chefs to craft dishes that are both delicious and exciting. The culinary team is dedicated to inventive fare and attention to detail to create an eating experience.

Antonino Bertolo’s Pizza

Right next to the NOMA plaza on Downtown’s North Main Street in downtown, Antonino Bertolo’s Pizza is one of the city’s most popular pizza parlors, serves up authentic NY style pizza and Italian cuisine.

Foothill Foodie Tours is a one of a kind foodie experience in Greenville with a chance to experience a wide selection of curated tours designed with you in mind.

Better Than Sex – A Dessert Restaurant

Enjoy the rimmed signature drinks and house made cordials at Better Than Sex – A Dessert Restaurant that re-imagines what intimate dining can be. All with desserts as the main event.

Next Day Get Inspired By Greenville’s Nature

Greenville is all about scenic beauty. Five gorgeous state parks perfect for a stroll or to break a sweat.

The 22-mile Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail is one of Greenville’s most popular. There’s Falls Park on the Reedy, Greenville’s downtown green space, waterfalls, flowers, and walkways. Cleveland Park, the city’s largest park and home of the 14-acre Greenville Zoo

Want even more? Greenville’s got it!

Over 60 outdoor obstacles and ziplines, Treetop Quest Greenville’s aerial adventure park will thrill you. Paris Mountain State Park’s Four lakes, a swimming area (complete with kayaks, canoes and pedal-boats for rent), playground, 15 miles of hiking and biking.

Lake Jocassee

Head north to stop at Marci Jo’s Olde Mountain Store, a quaint local spot between Jones Gap and Caesars Head State Parks

Wildcat Branch Falls near Greenville SC

There’s over a 100 more parks within just a few hours’ drive.

Speaking of Serene. Looking for a retreat?

Greenville’s Grand Bohemian

Greenville’s Grand Bohemian is a luxurious boutique hotel perched along the Reedy River. Whether you’re stopping by for a handcrafted cocktail, spending the night in one of their suites or attending a conference, it’s sure to be a cozy delight.

Dripping with Southern Charm

Hotel Hartness near Greenville SC

Hotel Hartness is the luxurious destination just outside the city.

Spa weekend? Dream wedding? Elegant event space. The extraordinarily intimate experience of 69 suites in the main hotel and 4 spa suites.

You’re looking for a new trip.

A great foodie adventure?

With a mix of big city with quaint and calm and mountains of inspiring scenery

And it’s easy to get to.

Greenville is a must-visit destination that makes visiting easy, delicious and memorable. From food to local culture, exercise, romance and calm vibes that the South is best known.

Jim Clendenen Tribute Dinner on Feb 4 Hosted by Hitching Post 2

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Jim Clendenen Tribute Dinner on Feb 4 Hosted by Hitching Post 2, Benefiting Santa Barbara Charities

By Joe Winger — 2 years ago

Hitching Post 2 Hosts Jim Clendenen Tribute Dinner, Benefiting Santa Barbara Charities.

Winemakers, Chefs, Vineyard Owners and Friends Gather to Honor the Legacy of Santa Barbara County Wines First Ambassador Raising $100,000 for Direct Relief and the Community Health Centers of the Central Coast

On February 4, 2023, Jami and Frank Ostini of the Hitching Post 2 in Buellton, California, hosted the Jim Clendenen Tribute Dinner benefiting Direct Relief and the Community Health Centers of the Central Coast.

One hundred ten guests came from distances as far away as Boston, Atlanta and Hawaii to honor Jim Clendenen, the founder and “Mind Behind” the highly acclaimed Au Bon Climat Winery located near Santa Maria, California.

Jim Clendenen Tribute Dinner Hosted by Hitching Post 2

The event raised $100,000 at the Santa Barbara Wine Auction sponsored by the Santa Barbara Vintners Foundation, with proceeds from the dinner benefiting the two charities.

Jim Clendenen started his winery in 1982, rising in prominence locally and internationally as he aspired to emulate Burgundy’s culture and wine styles by creating unique Santa Barbara wines from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

He became an international ambassador for Santa Barbara Wines while traveling the world and returning to California to mentor the first and second-generation winemakers in Santa Barbara County.

Jim befriended the best chefs and winemakers worldwide and built a wine business that sells across America and the globe – England, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Canada, Japan and Korea.

Jim’s children have taken up the torch.

Daughter Isabelle is traveling to represent Au Bon Climat at the Triangle Wine and Food Experience in North Carolina, and Knox is selling wine in Japan.

Like father, like daughter, like son.

The rest of Jim’s Au Bon Climat team was in the room – long-time winemaker Jim Adelman, first ABC employee cellar master Enrique Rodriguez, assistant winemaker Mark Piro, Michael Meluskey, James Sanders and Randi Chavoya. Surrounded with pictures of Jim’s life, the dinner featured a slideshow of 300 photos.

Endless storytelling filled every table as Jim’s spirit lit up the room.

Stories of Jim’s 40-plus year career and how he touched thousands of lives were shared by local grape growers, winemakers and friends, including Bob and Louisa Lindquist, Doug Margarum, Paul Lato, Brian and Lisa Babcock, Chad Melville, Andrew Murray, Katy Grassini, Matt Murphy, Justin Willett, James Ontiveros, Matt Turrentine, Gary and Jeanne Newman, Chuck and Kathleen Carlson, Chris Brown, Pierre LaBarge, Coby Parker-Garcia, Gary and Teresa Burk, Jessica Gasca, Debra Eagle, Drake Whitcraft, Jessica Stolpman and Gray, Charlotte and Weston Hartley.

Other attendees of note came to pay tribute to Jim: David & Judy Breitstein, David Fink, Bill Shea, Jay Mcinerney, Keith Pitts, Tom Black, Jimmy Davis, Blake Brown, Michael and Kathy Gordon, Bhupi Singh, Gurinder Kaur, Drs. Mark Goodman and Greg Hallert, and Jim and Jody Rea. The traveling contingent was led by Roy Yamaguchi, Chuck Furuya and Warren Shon from Hawaii, Chip Coen from Boston, Scott and Margret Dozier from Atlanta, and many others.

A spectacular five-course feast was prepared and served by the Hitching Post staff of 20 led by George Alvarado, Brad Lettau and Angel Carmona with the help of chef friends.

Clark Staub of Full of Life Flatbread Los Alamos had a strikingly colorful Chicory and Citrus Salad;

Roy Yamaguchi of Roy’s Restaurants of Hawaii served the pinnacle plate of Sea Bass enhanced with fresh-caught uni from Santa Barbara’s renowned fish-monger Stephanie Mutz.

Budi Kazali, formerly of the Ballard Inn, followed with a wonderfully earthy Smoked Duck Breast with Turnips and Tempura Chanterelles.

The Hitching Post served their signature Oak-Grilled New York with Black Truffled Mashed Potatoes and finished the evening with an assortment of cheeses and small bites of sweets.

The menu was paired with ten outstanding wines poured from five-liter bottles of Au Bon Climat vintages that spanned four decades – 2020 to 1986. A team of eleven sommeliers meticulously served the wines under the leadership of fellow winemakers Bob Lindquist, Doug Margarum and Paul Lato.

The evening was a wonderful and memorable tribute to a great friend, Jim Clendenen. And as Jim would have done himself, a generous sum was raised for charity while enjoying fine food and wine

ABOUT HITCHING POST 2 and HITCHING POST WINES:

The Hitching Post 2 Restaurant and Hitching Post Wines offer a quintessential Santa Barbara Wine Country food and wine experience in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley. One can enjoy traditionally made Pinot Noirs in a nearly 100-year-old wine-tasting room along with a casual high-quality BBQ lunch out back, set in a glorious outdoor setting with a mountain backdrop.

In the evening, you can visit the iconic Hitching Post 2 steak house that has been a Santa Ynez Valley institution since 1986 – a restaurant where you can enjoy Central Coast oak wood BBQ’d steaks and seafood matched with Hitching Post and fine local wines from Santa Barbara County.

Winter Cocktails by Ignacio Murillo at A.O.C.

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Seasonal Winter Flavors: Five New Winter Cocktails by Ignacio Murillo at A.O.C. on 3rd Street & in Brentwood

By Joe Winger — 2 years ago

Seasonal Winter Flavors: Five New Winter Cocktails by Ignacio Murillo at A.O.C. on 3rd Street & in Brentwood

Market-Fresh Seasonal Cocktails Crafted by Head Barman Ignacio Murillo Now Available at Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne’s A.O.C. Restaurants

A.O.C. debuts a new cocktail menu crafted by Ignacio Murillo

Suzanne Goin, Caroline Styne and head barman Ignacio Murillo, A.O.C. Third Street and Brentwood, California locations.

A.O.C. debuts a new cocktail menu crafted by Ignacio Murillo to welcome the changing winter produce and chillier temperatures.

In addition to the full bar of premium and classic cocktails, the specialty drinks at both 3rd Street and Brentwood locations include:

Satsuma with bourbon, tangerine juice, lemon, orange-saffron syrup & dried orange;

Death to the Espresso Martini with dark rum, silver rum, espresso, spiced coffee syrup & star anise;

Azteca with tequila, lime, apple juice, tamarind syrup & dried apple;

The Nagami with gin, lemon, kumquat liqueur, oro blanco grapefruit, fresh kumquat & rosemary;

The signature Fire & Smoke with mezcal, lime, blood orange, simple syrup, árbol chile, chili salt & fresh lime.

From his early days as a busser at the OG A.O.C. at 3rd & Crescent Heights, Ignacio Murillo always went the extra mile and immersed himself in the A.O.C. ways.

Ignacio Murillo - Five New Winter Cocktails A.O.C.

AOC’s Ignacio Murillo photo credit Suzanne Lanza

He came to every wine and cheese tasting, dedicated to being the best he could be, and made himself a key member of the A.O.C. family. Eventually, he moved to the bartender position, where he honed his cocktail-making skills, developing an incredible palate and a talent for layering flavors and textures in a magical way.

Murillo is now taking center stage, running A.O.C.’s bar program featuring seasonally motivated cocktails created to pair with Chef Suzanne Goin’s market menu offerings.

Cocktails are priced at $18-19 and are available now and continue through the winter season.

A.O.C. WINTER COCKTAILS 2023

Satsuma; photo credit Suzanne Lanza

Satsuma

bourbon, tangerine juice, lemon, orange-saffron syrup, orange

The Satsuma tangerine is a Japanese varietal popular amongst California growers. There are multiple varieties of tangerines at the Farmers’ Market, and I wanted to combine them with bourbon for a winter cocktail. To make this drink, I created an orange and saffron syrup to mix with the Satsuma tangerine juice to make an original and surprising cocktail that remains both juicy and spirit-forward.

Death to the Espresso Martini ; photo credit Suzanne Lanza

Death to the espresso martini

dark rum, silver rum, espresso, spiced coffee syrup, star anise

Espresso martinis are all the rage in Los Angeles and pretty much everywhere.

To take it to the next level, or at the very least, put my spin on it, I blended Caribbean dark and white rums and added a spiced coffee syrup made from condensed espresso along with a few secret ingredients.

The result is a cocktail that is rich, smooth, and eye-opening.

Azteca; photo credit Suzanne Lanza

Azteca

tequila, lime, apple juice, tamarind syrup, candied apple

The famous Aztec tribe is indigenous to Jalisco, the birthplace of tequila.Since apples are at their best in winter, I love incorporating them into a seasonal tequila cocktail. This year I combined the crispness of apples with tequila and added tamarind for its bright and sour notes. It lives up to the strength of its namesake.

The Nagami; photo credit Suzanne Lanza

The nagami

gin, lemon, kumquat liqueur, oro blanco grapefruit, fresh kumquat, rosemary

My neighbor has a small tree that is packed with kumquats. He shares them with his neighbors and makes delicious agua frescas with the fruit. He explained that these are Nagami kumquats, the most popular variety in the United States. So I used them to make a kumquat liqueur, added fresh-squeezed Oro Blanco grapefruit juice, and mixed them with gin to play off of the botanical notes in the gin.

This drink makes a citrusy and tart winter cocktail.

The signature Fire & Smoke; photo credit Suzanne Lanza

fire & smoke

mezcal, lime, blood orange, simple syrup, árbol chile, chili salt, fresh lime

Fire & Smoke has long been A.O.C.’s most popular seasonal cocktail. Blood orange, with its vibrant hue, is mixed with mezcal and tequila. The addition of our fiery house-made arbol Chile bitters makes this cocktail a long-time crowd-pleaser.

Serving now and continuing through the winter season; available for lunch, brunch & dinner per operating hours

A.O.C. 3rd Street

Dinner

Sunday – Thursday 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Friday & Saturday 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Brunch

Saturday & Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Pick up & delivery

5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. nightly

Saturday – Sunday brunch 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

A.O.C. in Brentwood Lunch

Wednesday – Friday 11:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Dinner

Sunday – Thursday 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Friday & Saturday 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Brunch

Saturday & Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Pick up & delivery

5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. nightly

WHERE:

A.O.C. 3rd Street

8700 W. 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90048 – 310.859.9859

A.O.C. in Brentwood

11648 San Vicente Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90049 – 310.806.6464

ABOUT THE LUCQUES GROUP:

With the opening of Lucques, their flagship restaurant, in 1998, James Beard Foundation award-winning Chef/Author Suzanne Goin and award-winning Restaurateur Caroline Styne planted the seeds for The Lucques Group, a Los Angeles hospitality company that comprises two fine dining restaurants – A.O.C. in both Los Angeles and Brentwood.

Along with these culinary enterprises, the company also owns the Larder Baking Company and oversees Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine, which curates all the food and beverage outlets at L.A.’s iconic music venue. The duo also operates two new restaurants – Caldo Verde and Cara Cara – at the Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel.

The Lucques Group is dedicated to seasonally influenced cooking and focuses on sourcing local, organic produce from which Goin creates soulful dishes that are bold in flavor, vibrant, layered and complex.

A.O.C.'s Valentine’s Day Dinner in West Hollywood & Brentwood

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A.O.C.’s Valentine’s Day Dinner in West Hollywood & Brentwood

By Joe Wehinger — 2 years ago

A.O.C. Presents Valentine’s Day Dinner in West Hollywood & Brentwood

Suzanne Goin’s Decadent Four-Course Dinner Designed for Two

A.O.C., by Chef Suzanne Goin and business partner Caroline Styne, 3rd Street and Brentwood

Indulgent four-course A.O.C. Valentine’s Day celebration dinner

Chef Suzanne Goin designs an indulgent four-course Valentine’s Day celebration dinner available for dine-in and delivery on Tuesday, February 14, 2023.

The evening begins with a delicious trio of dishes to savor – Blood Orange with Avocado, Cilantro & Crème Fraîche; Charred Albacore on Lavash with Lemongrass, Kumquat & Cashews; and a Stack of Cheesy Focaccia with Jamon & Black Truffle.

Next is a course of Nettle Gnocchi with Maine Lobster, Pecorino & Sugar Snaps.

For the main course, each guest can choose from Turmeric-Grilled Oyster Mushrooms with 2 Peas’ Broccoli, Pistachio & Calabrian Chiles; Striped Bass with Roasted Beets, Fennel & Citrus Chutney; Stuffed Chicken with Morels, Country Bread & Stewed Leeks; or Slow-Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Red Cabbage & Horseradish Cream.

Leave lots of room for the sweet ending – Ode to the Samoa Cookie for Two – Chocolate, Dulce De Leche & Coconut Ice Cream.

The dinner is priced at $150 per person, excluding beverages, tax and gratuity; reservations are offered from 5:00 p.m. – 10.30 p.m.

Head Barman Ignacio Murillo’s Valentine’s Cocktail for Two

Enhance the dinner with Head Barman Ignacio Murillo’s Valentine’s Cocktail for Two – Flor de Passion with Hibiscus-Infused Mezcal, Kumquat Cordial & Lime. To pair with the dinner, Caroline Styne has selected a flight of her favorite Rosé Champagnes— J. Lassalle, Brut Rosé, 1er Cru, Billecart-Salmon, Brut Rosé and Lanson Pink Label, Brut Rosé, and a curated list of recommended wines by the glass or bottle offered at a supplementary charge.

Vegan and Vegetarian options are available; please note these preferences when making reservations.

The public can book reservations on OpenTable.com and require advance payment.

flor de passion – photo credit suzanne lanza

a.o.c. valentine’s day dinner

february 14, 2023

$150 per person

vegetarian option available

to share

blood orange, avocado, cilantro & crème fraîche

charred albacore on lavash, lemongrass, kumquat & cashews

stack of cheesy focaccia, jamon & black truffle

***

nettle gnocchi, maine lobster, pecorino & sugar snaps

***

choice of

turmeric-grilled oyster mushrooms, 2 peas’ broccoli, pistachio & calabrian chiles

or

striped bass, roasted beets, fennel & citrus chutney

or

stuffed chicken, morels, country bread & stewed leeks

or

slow-roasted beef tenderloin, red wine red cabbage & horseradish cream

***

ode to the samoa cookie for two

chocolate, dulce de leche & coconut ice cream

featuring

valentine’s day cocktail – flor de passion

Sparkling Rosé Flight & Wine Flight, curated by Caroline Styne

(supplemental charge)

WHEN:

Valentine’s Day

Tuesday, February 14, 2023

5:00 p.m. – 10.30 p.m.

A.O.C. 3rd Street

8700 W. 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90048 – 310.859.9859

A.O.C. Brentwood

11648 San Vicente Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90049 – 310.806.6464

ABOUT THE LUCQUES GROUP:

With the opening of Lucques, their flagship restaurant, in 1998, James Beard Foundation award-winning Chef/Author Suzanne Goin and award-winning Restaurateur Caroline Styne planted the seeds for The Lucques Group, a Los Angeles hospitality company that comprises two fine dining restaurants – A.O.C. in both Los Angeles and Brentwood.

Along with these culinary enterprises, the company also owns the Larder Baking Company and oversees Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine, which curates all the food and beverage outlets at L.A.’s iconic music venue.

The duo also operates two restaurants – Caldo Verde and Cara Cara – at the Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel.

The Lucques Group is dedicated to seasonally influenced cooking and focuses on sourcing local, organic produce from which Goin creates soulful dishes that are bold in flavor, vibrant, layered and complex.

For further information and complete menus for a.o.c.,

visit www.aocwinebar.com

Ready for a Romantic Valentines Day? Start with wines chosen by Sommelier Jaime Smith

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Ready for a Romantic Valentine’s Day? Start with wines chosen by Sommelier Jaime Smith

By Jaime Smith — 2 years ago

Ready for a Romance Try a Valentine’s Day wine chosen by Sommelier Jaime Smith.

It’s that time of the year again and Valentine’s Day is right around the corner.

How should should you celebrate this holiday with your partner?

There is always a ton of pushback on these kinds of consumer targeted holidays, a new gripe is thrown in every year but why not just embrace it? The news cycles are dire, the world is changing so quickly, why not just grab ahold of this silly tradition and go with it, have fun, the other 75% of the world is.

Let loose, grab a bottle and relax.

While we are at it, why not visit some of the country’s most dynamic wine spots and the fab people who run them and let them help you choose that bottle of wine this year?

Not only are these wine stores and bars dynamic but their philosophies of inclusion & acceptance should be something we all should be aligning with ourselves.

We all struggle sometimes to find that perfect bottle for ourselves, these pros can guide you to your sweet spot.

Cheerful, friendly and quite bad ass, these stores are female/minority/handi-capable run and offer terrific selections from well-priced bottles of sparkling/still or dessert wine along with some distilled choices and the non-alcoholic too.

Valentine’s Day Wine in New York City

NYC- big city of dreams and a place where everything is possible.

Beaupierre’s Yannick Benjamin

Yannick Benjamin and his wife Heidi Turzyn have recently opened Beaupierre in Hells Kitchen.

The store is a “…barrier-free wine store that supports social sustainability to enrich the quality of life for people living with disabilities as well as members of the BIPOC, LGBTQIA, and other marginalized communities…

…an ‘open-door’ establishment

where everyone, regardless of race, gender, sexuality, or disabilities,

is always welcome.”

Beaupierre’s Heidi Turzyn

Not only are they the most inspirational couple you will ever meet but they will help you pick that special bottle for Valentine’s Day.

If you are ever in Harlem, you should most definitely visit their restaurant Contento (it practices the same philosophies as the store).

2020 Maison Chantereves, Aligote, Les Chagniots, Bourgogne, France

A fave bottle these days: 2020 Maison Chantereves, Aligote, Les Chagniots, Bourgogne, France

Visit Beaupierre in Hells Kitchen

Visit their restaurant Contento

Valentine’s Day Wine in Las Vegas

Las Vegas- the city of lights and luck

Las Vegas is a terrific wine city and 2 places to visit for expert advice are Ada’s Wine bar and Lamaii.

First up Ada’s, run by the utterly fantastic human Ms. Kat Thomas and her infectious positivity. Ada’s has a global selection of well curated and socially conscious selections.

Ada’s Wine Bar, Ms Kat Thomas

A fave bottle of sweets for the sweetie:

2018 Sauternes, Château Gilette ‘Les Justices’, Bordeaux, France

Shop Ada’s here

Lamaii’s Bank Atcharawan

Next up in the neon city is a Thai sommelier/chef named Bank Atcharawan and his growing empire of hot wine centric spots.

Lamaii has some of the best Thai food in the US (he is part of the Lotus of Siam alums, the wine brain behind them) and his wife Pimmie are the consummate hosts, go chat about Burgundy and Germany!

MV Rolland Champion , Champagne

A fave V-day bottle of bubbles:

MV Rolland Champion, Champagne

Shop Lamaii here

Valentine’s Day in Washington DC

Washington DC- The nations capital is a hot bed for natural wines and inclusivity.

Domestique Wine Shop’s Eric Moorer

Two spots to not miss are Domestique Wine Shop and Vitis Wines.

Domestique is hands down the best natural wine shop in the country and Eric Moorer is part of the reason, an encyclopedia of all things natty and a proponent for the culture.

2019 Domaine Dupasquier, Mondeuse, Savoie, France

Fave natty selection:

2019 Domaine Dupasquier, Mondeuse, Savoie, France

Shop Domestique Wine Shop

Vitis Wine Bar is located in Union market and run by one of its owners, Vanessa Phillips, a Kansas transplant and she-boss. The store has female & BIPOC centric choices with a great value all tightly wrapped in a small footprint.

Vitis Wine Bar’s Vanessa Phillips

Fave store pic:

2019 Beaujolais Villages, Jean Foillard

Visit and shop Vitis Wine Bar

Valentine’s Day Wine in Charleston

valentines day wine

Charleston, SC- The gem of a city along the Atlantic coast

Femi Oyediran, Graft Wine Shop

A simply amazing wine store called Graft and run by one of the owners Mr. Femi Oyediran. Femi is a well renowned Sommelier and probably one of the most affable folks in the wine biz. The store is a treasure trove of wines, from nerdy to classic.

valentines day wine

Fave domestic red:

2021 Trousseau, Phelan Farms, Cambria, CA (a Rajat Parr production)

Visit and shop at Graft

About Sommelier Jaime Smith

Sommelier Jaime Smith

a drone in the Sommelier Brain Collective. Jaime Smith loves wine. He’s currently in DC causing havoc.

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Celebrate Akasha Passover with At-Home Selections

Essentials

Appetizers & Starters

Entrees & Sides

Desserts

Vinola at the The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience

Tournament of Rosés

Grand Tasting at the The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience

Well, Greenville South Carolina hits all of those spots and more!

Fun Days and Starry-Filled Nights in Greenville South Carolina

Reedy River

Love a tasty cocktail?

Keep the Flavors Coming with Oil & Vinegar

From Family Fun to Romantic – Greenville’s Dinner Options

Foothill Foodie Tours is a one of a kind foodie experience in Greenville with a chance to experience a wide selection of curated tours designed with you in mind.

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A.O.C. debuts a new cocktail menu crafted by Ignacio Murillo

A.O.C. WINTER COCKTAILS 2023

Indulgent four-course A.O.C. Valentine’s Day celebration dinner

Head Barman Ignacio Murillo’s Valentine’s Cocktail for Two

a.o.c. valentine’s day dinner

Valentine’s Day Wine in New York City

Valentine’s Day Wine in Las Vegas

Valentine’s Day in Washington DC

Valentine’s Day Wine in Charleston

About Sommelier Jaime Smith

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