SoCal Voices Newsletter

March 2024

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Welcome to the SoCal Voices Newsletter, the sister project to the SoCal Voices Podcast. We've had a primary election, it's Women's History Month and I want to share some terrific places for you to go, eat, and thrive in SoCal. Let's get to it!

Super Tuesday-Done!

California was among 15 states that held primary elections earlier this month. Big thanks to Riverside Community College District Area 5 Trustee Keri Then, who joined me on the podcast in February to discuss voting. In addition to insights regarding candidates and issues, she shared helpful tips on ways to counter disinformation -- advice that will serve voters well in the run-up to the November election.

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Women's History Month

In honor of International Women's Day, I had the good fortune to be featured with a group of women podcasters on the Women in Podcasting Show! The episode, Celebrate & Elevate, was a great opportunity to connect with amazing podcasters and learn about the meaningful work they're doing. I hope you will check out the episode. You may discover a few podcasts that inspire you to pursue your interests and help you better navigate life's challenges. Big thanks to Women in Podcasting founder Jennifer Henczel, for bringing us together!

We continue our Women's History Month celebration with Moreno Valley's Kimberly Wallen, Founder and Executive Director of Her Sisters Keeper Foundation. Kimberly helps SoCal women recover from major setbacks or simply reset from the daily stress in their lives. On the episode, Kimberly shares the experiences that led her to create Her Sisters Keeper Foundation and how she helps empower women to live their best lives. Be sure to check out the episode when it's released on March 21!

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Reimagining Safety

We all know that law enforcement is a challenging and dangerous job. We also know that there are too many instances of innocent, unarmed people dying at the hands of police who use excessive force. Are there other, better ways to handle public safety? What if we were all safe? My recent guest Matthew Solomon, explores these questions in his documentary film Reimagining Safety. In the podcast episode, Matthew talks about his somewhat indirect route to creating the film, the social justice community's response to the documentary and his vision for a safer future.

I invite you to listen to our conversation and watch his film. Both offer insight into Matthew's motivation and vision for a safer future for all of us. Reimagining Safety is streaming on Amazon, YouTube, Tubi and Google Play.

Listen to the episode

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Go, Eat, Thrive

Hungry? Next time you're in Downtown Los Angeles you may want to check out Joyce Soul and Sea at 770 S. Grand Ave. Founders and Operators Prince and Athena Riley offer what they call "soulful southern fare with an emphasis on sustainable seafood." I just call it delicious.

On a recent visit, the standouts included cornbread with whipped sorghum butter and hickory smoked salt and pepper, and the mac and cheese. From the oysters on the half shell and salad, to the Bring Back Pok Pok and Calabash Style Fried Shrimp sandwiches, everything was a delight. The atmosphere is modern, cheerful, and comfortable, and the service is warm and friendly.

In the mood for some delicious wine? Visit Temecula Valley Wine Country. Nestled in southwest Riverside County, Southern California's 33,000-acre premier wine region is home to gorgeous panoramic views and nearly 50 wineries offering a range of experiences and price points.

To make the most of your visit, do some research in advance. Most of the wineries welcome walk-ins, but depending on the winery and/or size of your party, your experience might be enhanced with a reservation. Consider limiting your stops to three wineries so you can fully enjoy the ambience and learn about the wines from the winemakers and staff.

Remember to hydrate before and during your visit, and grab a bite to eat! Several of the wineries have restaurants including Cafe Champagne at Thornton, Pinnacle at Falkner, The Restaurant at Ponte, Carol's at Baily and Vineyard Rose at South Coast. You could also go picnic style! Whether you do a day visit or spend an entire weekend, there is much to see and experience in Temecula Wine Country.

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I'd love to hear your comments and questions about the podcast or the newsletter. There are lots of easy ways to get in touch with me. Reach out! Links below in the footer.

Until next time,

Angela Ross Founder & Host, SoCal Voices