Explore L.A.

Gospel and jambalaya, scones and garden tours, Dodger dogs and baseball … For the past two years, students, faculty, and staff have shared music, hiking, sporting events, art, food, and conversation as part of the Explore L.A. program. Created by the dean of students to provide more off-campus opportunities for you, Explore L.A. sponsors free monthly excursions to a variety of events and activities in the Los Angeles area.  One of our students serves as coordinator.

Diary of an L.A. Explorer

Student coordinator Peter Wright '05 describes a few of the events and activities organized by Explore L.A.

The Hollywood Bowl - "Treasures of China"
A phenomenal event that included the L.A .Philharmonic, Asian poetry, the Peking Acrobats, and a fireworks spectacular.  We had a picnic at the Bowl with professors Wellington Chan (history) and Sarah Chen (Asian studies).

Los Angeles Dodgers vs. San Francisco Giants
Took part in the historic rivalry between the Dodgers and Giants. Andy Holmes, our director of sports information, and Coach Troy Engle (track and cross country) joined us for Dodger Dogs at the ballpark.

Hike in the San Gabriel Mountains
Climbed the Mt. Echo trail off Lake Street in Altadena in record heat.  Despite the weather, we made it to the foundation of an old hotel at the top of the mountain.  Setting the pace were Brice Harris, professor emeritus of history, and Gretchen North, professor of biology. 

Tour of the Huntington Gardens
A walk in the gardens was followed by a lecture from Mary Robertson, the chief curator of the manuscripts department.  Drank tea and ate homemade scones at the Pasadena home of Oxy administrator Cecilia Fox.  Librarian Emily Bergman joined us.

Orange County Museum of Art - "Girls Night Out Exhibit"
An Orange County excursion to OCMA's "Girl's Night Out Exhibit," which combined canvas with video and sound, was led by Professors Amy Lyford (art history) and Mary Beth Heffernan (visual arts).  We had fish and chips for lunch in Newport Harbor.

House of Blues Gospel Brunch
Dined on jambalaya, catfish, and bread pudding while being serenaded by the Son of God Gospel group on the Sunset Strip.