Posts made in February 2019

How to Reduce Belly Fat

Top 5 tips by Registered Dietitian Ilana Muhlstein on how people can reduce belly fat for bathing suit season

  1. What are foods to eat to reduce belly fat?

Water filled veggies are great for helping you lose weight, and stay regular so you can relieve bloat. Some great examples are tomatoes, cucumbers and zucchinis that are rich in potassium, which can also help release water retention you may be carrying in your stomach.

  1. What are some foods to avoid?

Research has shown that cortisol, our stress hormone, can cause abdominal weight gain. Meaning that if you are stress eating, you will likely not just gain weight, but gain it in your lower stomach. Therefore, it is a good idea to ab-void stress eating in general and find better coping strategies for dealing with stress. Examples are calling a friend, taking a walk or long shower, doing yoga or another workout, meditating and/or journaling.
And the foods we reach for when stressed are typically higher in fat, refined carbohydrates, and sugar, which can be addictive and lead to excess weight gain. Therefore, it is a good idea to keep these trigger foods out of sight and out of mind, and not buy and bring them home, especially during stressful times.

  1. How to keep belly fat off for good?

Clear the counter tops of sliced bread, jars of cookies, bowls of candies, and boxes of cereal. And replace it with great things that can be helpful immediately if feeling hungry like a water cooler, boxes of cherry tomatoes (my daughter reaches into these daily for a quick snack), and a bowl of apples. You should also have things out that keep you thinking about your healthy lifestyle. Some examples are a tea or coffee station; some veggies that need cooking like spaghetti squash, turnips, and onions; and a Shakeology or smoothie station (if there is still room).

  1. What are your favorite core-flattening recipes?

I like to make a chocolate Shakeology shake with half a cup of water, half a cup of coconut water, ice, and a scoop each of the Shakeology Power Greens and Digestive Health Boosts. This recipe tastes like delicious chocolate ice cream, but is only 250 calories. It also has 20g of protein which helps stave off hunger and cravings, and 13g of fiber which helps keep you regular, (because constipation is definitely not “core flattering”).

  1. How do you limit sugar intake?

I always keep a little “mommy drawer” that contains mint gum in the kitchen. I find that if someone is craving chocolate, brushing his teeth with mint toothpaste could crush that craving. And chewing gum makes it really hard to also chew a mouthful of pasta or teriyaki beef stir fry.
Also the PB& J sandwich swapped for a PB&J Wonder Whip. In a bowl, add plain Greek yogurt, powdered peanut butter, and honey or stevia to taste. Whip it up very well, and top with sliced grapes or strawberries.

For additional professional opinions on this topic, we highly recommend visiting Dr. Michael Ruscio’s blog (and also downloading his latest book, Healthy Gut, Healthy You).

360, 360 Magazine, Vaughn Lowery, Ilana Muhlstein

Diamond Valley Lake Super Bloom

Biggest Super Bloom in Over a Decade Expected at Diamond Valley Lake Wildflower Trail Opens March 2

On the heels of record rains, officials at Diamond Valley Lake anticipate the biggest super bloom in over a decade in the coming weeks. The most jaw-dropping views will be from the Wildflower Trail, which opens March 2 and is accessible from the Diamond Valley Lake Marina.

“This is the payoff from all that rain,” said Kelly Lam, director of marketing for Basecamp Hospitality, which operates concessions at Diamond Valley Marina, Lake Hemet and 20+ parks across the western U.S. “We’re already starting to see flowers, and by mid to late March we anticipate this super boom to be way better than it has been in over 10 years. The lake is higher than I’ve ever seen it, too, and the fish are thriving, so it’s a great time to plan a trip out here.”

The seasonal Wildflower Trail, located in the Southwestern Riverside County Multi-Species Reserve protected area, and open Wednesdays through Sundays, will soon burst with color, from red Indian Paintbrush flowers and yellow Tidy Tips sunflowers to deep pink Red Maids, orange California poppies, blue arroyo lupines, purple Canterbury bells and white Forget-Me-Nots. The flowers should last through April along the hillsides of the lake trail, a 1.3-mile loop that is considered easy to moderate.

Basecamp recently made improvements to the lake for visitors to enjoy, including new, permanent marina restrooms and may soon include longer hours for approved activities in early mornings and evenings. Entry fees into the marina are $10 per car, and trail access costs $3 per person—and includes a map of the wildflowers and wildflower guide. You can also view the flowers by renting one of the bass or pontoon boats, for fishing or relaxing, at the marina. Get started at the Diamond Valley Lake Visitor Center, home to the bones of Max, the largest and most complete adult mastodon to be uncovered in the western United States. So many mastodons were found here that the area is known as “the valley of the mastodons.”

The visitor center is open weekends from 10 am to 4 pm and also features information on what it took to build three dams the size of those at Diamond Valley Lake, including videos and photos of the astoundingly large equipment used on the project.

Morro Bay Bike Ride

Public Invited to Ride across Amgen Tour of California Stage 4 Finish at the Morro Bay Bike Ride Pre-Event and Party at the Pro Cyclists Meet & Greet

Cycle through the Stage 4 Finish Line on Race Day, Meet Former Professional

American Cyclist and Author Bob Roll and other Pro Cyclists at The Siren, Volunteer and Watch the Race Front and Center, Book Race Day VIP Lodging Packages or Hotels along the Race Route

The public is invited to participate in Amgen Tour of California Stage 4 race day fun in #cyclingmecca Morro Bay. The 2019 Amgen Tour of California announced Morro Bay will host the Stage 4 Finish of the men’s race on May 15, 2019 following the scenic route the Amgen Tour took in 2017, when Peter Sagan won the sprint finish. After passing through picturesque Morro Bay State Park, where riders get their first glimpse of iconic Morro Rock, Morro Bay’s busting waterfront before sprinting uphill into downtown Morro Bay for the big finish.

“Of all sports, it is cycling that has the most beautiful stadium and this ocean front Stage 4 Finish in Morro Bay is a stunner,” according to Bob Roll, former professional American cyclist and author. “With perfect year round riding weather, the world will get its chance to experience what the locals have enjoyed for years: varied terrain, wide open roads, first class dining and drop dead views. Can’t wait to be there!”

Morro Bay Bike Ride Pre-Event: Ride Across the Amgen Stage 4 Finish Line

Join event producer RaceSLO on race day for the Morro Bay Bike Ride May 15, 2019 from 1:30 to 2:30 pm. This ride ends with a sprint through the Amgen Tour of California Stage 4 Finish line on Harbor Street! All levels are welcome to this celebratory cycle pep rally with three participation options: kid-friendly, recreational rider or seasoned cyclist. Enjoy vendors, food and beverages as the crowd awaits the professional racers to start crossing the finish around 3:40 pm. Participants receive a collectible event t-shirt and free bike valet. Ride proceeds go to local non-profit partner Bike SLO County.

Pro Cyclists Meet & Greet at Siren Rhythm & Booze

Stick around after the race and head to the FREE Bob Roll Pro Cyclists Meet & Greet Event at The Siren May 15, 2019 at 5:30 pm, produced by RaceSLO. Get some cool cycling swag and raise some cold craft pints while helping raise funds for Bike SLO County during a LIVE Auction. Enjoy live music and catch a glimpse of Amgen competitors up close and personal. The event is over 21 only and FREE, but seating is limited so you must pre-register and present a ticket at the door.

Volunteer at Amgen Tour of California Stage 4 Finish

Amgen Tour of California is a Tour de France-style cycling road race created and presented by AEG that challenges the world’s top professional cycling teams to compete along a demanding course that traverses hundreds of miles of California’s iconic highways, byways and coastlines each spring. Tour officials say the 2019 race will be the longest and most challenging in its 14-year history. Many volunteers are needed to make this event a success. You don’t have to live in Morro Bay to participate. Click here to sign up and see the race up close!

Book Lodging Along the Race Route or Amgen Tour of California VIP Packages

Book your stay at a hotel along the Amgen Tour of California route to get a front row seat as the riders pass by. Or, book a suite or waterfront room in one of the participating Morro Bay hotels and receive exclusive access into the Amgen Tour of California VIP tent filled with perks and goodies! Hospitality Passes provide exclusive access into the main VIP Hospitality Tent located adjacent to the FINISH Line. VIP Hospitality Includes:

    • Swag bag of goodies that you’ll receive upon check-in
    • Premium Viewing Location right at the finish line
    • Gourmet foods catered from local restaurants throughout the area
    • Open Bar (includes beer and wine)
    • Lounge Style Seating with closed-circuit tv viewing
  • Live Race Coverage (last two hours of the broadcast)

For additional information on hotels in Morro Bay check out our booking engine here. Recently named one of the Best Small Towns in CA by Country Living Magazine, Morro Bay offers year round mild weather, perfect for epic outdoor adventure all year long. For more information on visiting Morro Bay, go to www.morrobay.org. #multisportmecca

About Morro Bay

A true #outdoormecca, this active seaside fishing village with bustling waterfront offers a picture-perfect getaway for travelers who seek food, wine and outdoor adventures found in nature. Located along coastal Highway 1 in San Luis Obispo County just south of Big Sur, midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Morro Bay offers year-round activities in an unspoiled slice of California. From ocean-side golf, kayaking, sailing, hiking, fishing, surfing, biking, and bird watching, to kite flying, shopping, dining, wine bars, local craft brews and miles of unspoiled beaches, there is something for everyone.

Sitting majestically between the beach and the harbor lays the iconic and historic landmark Morro Rock, welcoming travelers from miles away as they approach Morro Bay. Located just minutes from world-renowned Hearst Castle, historic missions, breathtaking Montana de Oro State Park, and surrounded by vineyards from Paso Robles to Edna Valley, Morro Bay is a destination designed to fit any style and budget for families, couples or groups. Morro Bay also offers a myriad of year-round events including food, wine and music festivals, art fairs and car shows unique to the town. For more travel information visit www.morrobay.org or follow Morro Bay on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

Air Italy Signs Agreement with Bulgaria Air

The code share agreement will offer increased connectivity between the main Bulgarian cities and eight major destinations in Italy

Thanks to an interline commercial agreement, Bulgaria Air’s passengers will benefit from single tickets for traveling between Bulgaria and Air Italy’s US, Canada and Africa destinations

Air Italy and Bulgaria Air have entered into a code share partnership to offer customers enhanced connectivity between Bulgaria and eight major destinations in Italy, with effect from today.

Under the agreement, Air Italy’s “IG” code will be placed on Bulgaria Air flights between Milan Malpensa and Sofia, Varna and Burgas, which are all on sale from today with the first flights available from March 31st. At the same time, starting with the new summer IATA season, Bulgaria Air will put its “FB” code on Air Italy flights between Milan Malpensa and Rome Fiumicino, Naples, Olbia and Cagliari (Sardinia), Palermo and Catania (Sicily), and Lamezia Terme (Calabria).

Moreover, thanks also to the interline commercial agreement, Bulgaria Air’s passengers will benefit from single tickets for travel between Bulgaria and Air Italy’s US, Canada and Africa destinations operated from Malpensa: Miami, New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco (both from April), Toronto (from May), Cairo, Dakar, Accra and Lagos.

Air Italy Chief Operating Officer, Rossen Dimitrov, said: “The commencement of our partnership with Bulgaria Air is great news for passengers of both airlines. Our customers can now benefit from a new choice for connecting to Bulgaria via Milan Malpensa, from our seven key Italian destinations. Meanwhile, we are delighted to be welcoming Bulgaria Air’s passengers on board our new Air Italy flights from Milan Malpensa to Rome, Naples, Palermo, Catania, Lamezia Terme, Cagliari and Olbia.

“We are also very proud to be welcoming Bulgaria Air’s passengers traveling from Sofia, Varna and Burgas on board our new Air Italy intercontinental flights from Milan Malpensa to the US and Canada as they will experience our extremely comfortable widebody long-haul Airbus A330-200 and our new Business and Economy Class on board services.”

“It is a great pleasure to announce the new codeshare agreement which is only a step towards Bulgaria Air’s goal to offer passengers the opportunity to travel intercontinentally and connect Bulgarians all over the world. Our urge is to continually expand our portfolio of destinations and we are very happy that we have found a partner such as Air Italy who had already proven to be a responsible, innovative and progressive air career. Thanks to this partnership the passengers from the United States, Canada, Italy and Bulgaria can benefit and enjoy the same high quality and comfortable flights as always and reach numerous new destinations. We are happy to welcome all Air Italy’s passengers on board and be a part of creating a connection between Italy and Bulgaria,” said CEO of Bulgaria Air Hristo Todorov.

Flight tickets for the Italy/Bulgaria routes under the codeshare agreement are available for purchase at travel agents, or through each airlines’ website and call centers for travel from March 31st.

Despite NFL Settlement, Nation Evenly Divided on Kaepernick Impact

The confidential settlement of Colin Kaepernick’s lawsuit against the NFL finds the nation evenly divided on its impact on his protests.

In a Seton Hall Sports Poll conducted this week, by a margin of 44-42%, the public says the settlement has not diminished the impact of his protest.

By 45-40%, the public believes the settlement is an admission by the NFL that collusion by NFL teams against him took place.

When the question of approval for Kaepernick was asked in September 2017, his support was only 32%, with disapproval at 44%.

While white respondents are evenly divided on whether the settlement diminished the impact of the protests, by 2 to 1 African-Americans believe that it does. Whites are also evenly divided on whether it the settlement is an admission of collusion by the NFL, but African-Americans believe it is by 3 to 1.

794 adult Americans were polled on both landlines and cellphones, a margin of +/- 3.5%.

Despite a fairly close overall division on whether or not the settlement was an admission of collusion on the part of the NFL, by more than a 3-1 margin (41-13%), respondents believed that Kaepernick’s chance of being signed to a new NFL contract has decreased because of the settlement.

“People remain divided regarding the message of his kneeling during the national anthem,” noted Rick Gentile, director of the poll, which is sponsored by the Sharkey Institute in the Stillman School of Business. “But there certainly seems to be a feeling that doors are not going to open for the renewal of his career.”

Disapproval of U. of Mississippi Basketball Protesters

In a related matter, by a 42-29% margin, people disapproved of the University of Mississippi basketball players kneeling last weekend to protest an on campus rally honoring Confederate soldiers. That margin draws a close comparison to the September 2017 Kaepernick findings. However, 12 out of 13 African-Americans offered support of the protest.

Results breakdown can be found online at http://blogs.shu.edu/sportspoll/2019/02/28/despite-nfl-settlement-nation-evenly-divided-on-kaepernick-impact/

The Official Seton Hall Sports Poll podcast discussing this topic with Seth Everett and Rick Gentile can be found at http://itunes.apple.com/mt/podcast/seton-hall-sports-poll/id1053266467.

Jonas Brothers Are Back

GRAMMY® Award-nominated multiplatinum powerhouse trio and arguably the definitive pop group of the 21st century— Jonas Brothers —announced their highly anticipated return to music. Marking the band’s first original release in nearly six years, and debut under their new partnership with Republic Records, their highly anticipated comeback single “Sucker” will be available Friday, March 1st worldwide at 12AM ET on all platforms.

Get it | Watch the teaser

ROUSH RAPTOR

The new, all-terrain 2019 ROUSH Raptor adds signature ROUSH style with an aggressive exhaust note and new, optional Performance Pac engine upgrades for sizeable increases in horsepower and torque.

ROUSH Performance has announced the release of its signature version of Ford’s legendary off-road performance truck, the 2019 ROUSH Raptor. Featuring aggressive BFGoodrich all-terrain tires, a performance-tuned ROUSH Axle-Back Exhaust System and dynamic ROUSH graphics, the 2019 ROUSH Raptor delivers unmatched off-road performance and style backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty.

The 2019 ROUSH Raptor is equipped with Ford’s twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine producing 450 horsepower and 510 foot-pounds of torque. ROUSH ensures this powerful engine has a sporty exhaust note to match with the included ROUSH Axle-Back Exhaust System. For those looking for even more power, ROUSH plans to offer an optional Performance Pac Engine Upgrade System (final numbers to be announced at a later date) which includes a maximum-flow 3.0-inch exhaust system, ROUSH Cold Air Intake Kit and an ECU flash for increased performance, throttle response and drivability. Overall performance gains from the ROUSH Performance Pac for 2019 will be announced at a later date.

The 2019 ROUSH Raptor rolls on 20-inch black ROUSH off-road wheels with integrated bead protection wrapped in BFGoodrich 35-inch All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires for maximal stability, grip and handling on rough terrain.

“The 2019 ROUSH Raptor is our most capable off-road vehicle to date,” said Jack Roush Jr. “From ice and snow to the depths of the desert, this vehicle conquers the terrain with iconic ROUSH performance and design, especially now that it is available with our Performance Pac engine upgrades.”

ROUSH offers a host of aesthetic and utility improvements that set the ROUSH Raptor apart including a ROUSH Chase Rack with optional off-road lighting by Rigid for sporty utility and style. A signature ROUSH graphics package with optional customization finishes off the unmistakable custom style. Interior modifications include a custom gauge cluster, ROUSH headrest embroidery and a serialized console badge.

Those looking for unrivaled off-road capability can add an optional off-road utility kit. For even more style and utility, ROUSH also offers graphics package upgrades and an optional Console Vault safe.

Pricing on the ROUSH Raptor begins at $13,000 over factory MSRP. Visit ROUSHperformance.com to build your ROUSH Raptor and find a ROUSH dealership near you.

Walk The Blue Carpet With The Mavs

On Friday, March 1st, the Dallas Mavericks will host the fourth annual Mavs Ball presented by Smith Thompson Home Security benefiting the Mavs Foundation. The star-studded night, hosted by FOX Sports Southwest’s Mark Followill and Dana Larson, will include a cocktail reception, seated dinner, live and silent auctions and entertainment by the Grammy Award-winning group, Boyz II Men. The entire 2018-2019 Dallas Mavericks team, Owner Mark Cuban, and Head Coach Rick Carlisle will all be in attendance.

Mavs Ball is the premier fundraiser for the Mavs Foundation, the non-profit arm of the Dallas Mavericks, dedicated to serving women, children and families in need across North Texas. This year’s event will celebrate the 2018-2019 Mavs Foundation Grant Recipients: CitySquare, Community Partners of Dallas, Dallas 24 Hour Club, Essilor Vision Foundation, Hope Supply Co., Hunger Busters, Jonathan’s Place, Leukemia Texas, Mission Possible Kids, POETIC, Voice of Hope and YMCA Waxahachie.

Mavs Ball will take place on Friday, March 1, 2019, from 7:00PM to 11:00PM at American Airlines Center (2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, TX 75219). Proud sponsors for the event include: Smith Thompson Home Security, 5miles, Morgan Stanley, Legacy Exploration and KPMG.

TECHRULES × TREV TECHNOLOGY

REVOLUTIONARY ELECTRIC VEHICLE TURBINE RECHARGING TECHNOLOGY NEARS PRODUCTION READINESS 

  • Chinese automotive R&D company, Techrules, will soon be ready to begin production of its innovative Turbine-Recharging Electric Vehicle (TREV) technology
  • New strategy set to launch technology in fixed and mobile charging stations as well as to commercial vehicle and passenger car OEMs
  • Smaller 15 kW turbine expands potential applications to include passenger cars, allowing for faster commercialisation
  • Discussions are at an advanced stage regarding location for the world’s largest micro-turbine production plant 

The Chinese automotive R&D company, Techrules, is approaching production readiness for its ground-breaking Turbine-Recharging Electric Vehicle (TREV) system which was showcased in the Ren supercar at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show. 

The TREV system is an all-new patent-protected series hybrid powertrain technology comprising a turbine-generator. TREV combines extensive experience of aviation and electric vehicle technologies with several patented technical innovations, delivering unprecedented levels of efficiency and performance, and ultra-low environmental impact especially with the use of renewable fuels.

Over the past year Techrules has made significant investments to grow its technical capabilities. World renowned electric vehicle expert Prof. Dr. Ching Chuen Chan is overseeing a newly-established Techrules R&D centre in Beijing. Prof. Dr. Chan is, amongst others, a member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, a member of the Royal Academy of Engineering, and a Founding Chairman of the World Electric Vehicle Association. Under his guidance a smaller 15 kW turbine is now nearing its production readiness, making it suitable for commercial and industrial applications. 

William Jin, CEO of Techrules, said: “Since we showcased the Ren supercar with a twin 80 kW turbine set-up at the 2017 and 2018 Geneva Motor Shows, we received a tremendous amount of interest from OEMs around the world looking to benefit from its exceptional range-extending capabilities for passenger cars and commercial vehicles. So, we decided to adjust our strategy and develop a smaller and cheaper 15 kW version which is more suitable for commercial and passenger vehicles. This is allowing us to commercialise the TREV system much faster: we will be ready for mass production by the end of 2019.”

Techrules will use the TREV system in fixed and mobile charging stations as well as providing it to OEMs for use in commercial vehicles and passenger cars. 

In addition, Techrules is currently looking for a suitable international partner to help finalise the development and production of its Ren supercar, with a longer term aim to use its TREV system for its own passenger cars.

The inventor of the new micro-turbine technology, Chief Technology Officer of Techrules, Matthew Jin, explains: “The development of the Ren supercar is giving us extensive real-world experience that only cements our belief that large scale adoption of micro-turbines in electric vehicles will herald a new age for electric mobility. 

”Because the core technology of our turbine includes a brand new hybrid air bearing system, we have a previously unavailable route to mass-production of micro-turbines at a reasonable cost. And it can run on renewable fuels such as ethanol and biogas, which would smoothen the transition from the age of fossil fuels to the age of electricity. Because of its superior efficiency, fewer batteries are needed for electric vehicles, saving significant weight and cost, while also reducing emissions and, ultimately, urban pollution.”

Whether applied as a standalone charging system, or as a range extender in an electric vehicle, the micro-turbine can recharge batteries anywhere and at any time. It completely eliminates the problems of range anxiety and the inconvenience of lengthy charging times or poor charge point availability. Since it can use the existing infrastructure it avoids the challenges posed by the construction, cost and capacity of charging networks.

William Jin concludes: “We are in advanced discussions with a number of potential new partners to form strategic alliances. These will allow us to bring our technology, including the Ren supercar, to markets around the world, and to develop new products and commercial applications for our advanced TREV system. But our key priority now is to conclude the negotiations with local municipalities with the help of Professor Dr. Chan, in order to start building the largest micro-turbine facility in the world.”

Petersen Automotive Museum “Winning Numbers” Exhibit

On Saturday, February 23, 2019, the Petersen Automotive Museum opened its newest exhibit featuring 10 groundbreaking race cars, each with a unique story of triumph and victory. Titled “Winning Numbers: The First, The Fastest, The Famous,” the exhibit is comprised of Le Mans winners, land speed record setters, dragsters and road racers from the personal garage of Petersen Founding Chairman Bruce Meyer.

Key vehicles on display include the winningest Ferrari road racer of all time, the 1957 Ferrari 625/250 Testa Rossa, which claimed first prize in more than half of the 50 competitions in which it was raced; the first production 1962 Shelby Cobra, CSX2001; the 1962 Greer Black Prudhomme, which was raced by drag racing legend Don Prudhomme who won 237 of the 241 races in which he piloted the car; the renowned 1952 So-Cal Speed Shop Belly Tank Racer, which was fashioned from a P-38 Lightning fighter belly tank from World War II by hot rod racing icon Alex Xydias; the 1979 Kremer Porsche 935 K3 that took first place overall at Le Mans; and the 1929 Ford “747” Bonneville Racer that Meyer ran 204 mph at Bonneville Salt Flats. 

“Affectionately called ‘the car guy’s car guy,’ Bruce Meyer epitomizes true automotive passion,” said Petersen Automotive Museum Executive Director Terry L. Karges. “The charisma with which Bruce shares his passion is what sets him apart. ‘Winning Numbers’ reflects his discerning tastes as a collector and motorsports enthusiast, and we’re proud to share his fervor for the hobby with the community.”

The exhibit’s public opening was preceded by an evening reception and media preview on February 22, 2019. Guests of the exclusive event were treated to passed appetizers by the Petersen’s exclusive catering partner Drago, a full cocktail bar and a Fireside Chat discussion between Meyer and Karges. 

“Winning Numbers” will run through January 19, 2020.