| California Connection November, 2009
Howard Hian  San Diego - The hometown 2009 flat track California champions, the San Diego Derby Dolls, are members of the nation’s first hybrid league which competes on both banked and flat tracks. The Derby Dolls’ opponents include the Redland Rollers, Santa Cruz Boardwalk Bombshells, Cincinnati Roller Girls and LA Tough Cookies. They have a bout (yes, that is what they are called) in LA on November 14th. and November 21st. in San Diego at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. You will love the word play associated with the players’ game names. Although this is a blast from the past, don’t be fooled - the participants are hard-working athletes and very committed to their sport. For further information, log onto www.sd.derbydolls.com.
 Temecula - The South Coast Winery and Spa has two noteworthy events this month at the resort. On November 7th.,the Wild Women of Wine Country Cooking Class explores the culinary secrets of food preparation with wine. On November 14th., the Winemakers Dinner is a lavish five-course feast featuring new wine releases. For reservations and information call 1-951-587-9463 ext. 7210. Plan to stay over.
The resort features 76 luxurious private villas with fireplaces, spa tubs, free high-speed wireless internet access and a complimentary bottle of wine in your suite. Other amenities include the 15,000 square foot GrapeSeed Spa, beautiful landscaping and the Vineyard Rose Restaurant. Breakfast on its terrace while sipping mimosas is decadent and highly recommended. South Coast Winery was the California State Wine Fair’s Winery of the Year in 2008 and 2009. Sign up for their behind-the-scenes, hour-long guided tour which finishes up in the tasting room with wine, fruit and cheese pairings. Their website is www.wineresort.com.  Santa Ynez – The 25th annual Vaquero Show and Sale is held November 13 – 15. The weekend event honors the lifestyle and renowned horsemanship of the California Vaquero (cowboy). Vaqueros developed their unique style during the Spanish/Mexican Colonial period on the expansive cattle ranchos of Central California. They blended classic European horsemanship and the ‘rough and ready’ riding style of early California ranchers. They created their own apparel, tack, saddles and other unique equipment.
 A highlight of the weekend celebration is the gathering of noted artisans and collectors displaying and selling hand-tooled leather saddles, braided Vaquero-styled riatas, custom boots, bridles, reins and other horse tack as well as Western art, apparel, memorabilia and collectibles. Other events include a BBQ, gala dinner, a raffle, live entertainment and an equestrian exhibition. All proceeds benefit the non-profit Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum. For further information go online to www.SantaYnezMuseum.org or call 1-805-688-7889.
Safe travels and enjoy the journey… Howard Hian www.Travels-with-Hian.com Thanks to the various websites for information and photos including the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum. Before you go please check details, dates, rates and availability; some restrictions may apply.
November 1st, 2009
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