Well, that was going to be the theme. But, owing to budget considerations, I've had to limit my layout to a shot of a cuddly couple from the 1920s, a period in which the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce sent out goofy, staged photos to newspapers around the world. As though anyone had to be persuaded that L.A. was goofy.
Back to our usual format
When I saw the "99" price on a drink menu, I thought perhaps it was a typo. Surely, it was Buck-a-Maggie night, right? No. The Avalon Grille on Catalina does indeed offer one type of margarita for $99.
Why so much? One waiter explained that the concoction includes a rare tequila and an antique grand marnier (mariner IS a typo on the menu.)
And does anybody actually buy one? "We sell maybe 3 or 4 a week," the waiter said. "It's usually a guy trying to impress the girl he's with."
Funny thing about Catalina
On our family vacation, I noticed that the island sometimes feels compelled to remind rampaging mainlanders where they are_or are not. One eatery, for instance, sets out a warning regarding the small cups of food that it sets out for sale.
These aren't bumper cars!
Meanwhile, customers trying to rent a golf cart in jalopy-scarce Catalina are informed that this isn't a kiddy ride.
A beautiful day to stay inside
Porschia, our guide on one excursion through Catalina, mentioned she's often asked why there is no gambling at the island's landmark casino building. Management has gone so far as to post a sign at the premises, explaining why there are no slot machines.
And who gave "casino" its modern connotation?
"Las Vegas," said Porschia.
Ah, summer in So Cal...
A winged chariot, spotted by Elmar Baxter...
Being on the look-out for ocean-going vehicles on the freeway...
Yard sales that are, uh, big...
Facing that weekday morning dilemma (snapped by Elaine Gardner)...
Yes, it's a great time of the year.
But stay alert
Steve Harvey may be reached at steveharvey9@gmail.com. His Twitter handle is @sharvey9