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Huntington Beach Emerges as Leading Contender for LA28 Beach Volleyball Events LA28 is currently in active discussions with the City of Huntington Beach to host beach volleyball for the 2028 Summer Olympics. This comes after negotiations with Santa Monica were discontinued due to unresolved differences over community benefits, operational logistics, and financial assurances. With its iconic coastline, rich beach culture, and proven track record of hosting premier AVP events, Huntington Beach is now considered a front-runner for the sport. The city is also slated to host the 2026 NCAA Beach Volleyball Championships, further showcasing its readiness and appeal as a world-class venue. While Huntington Beach leads the conversation, LA28 has confirmed that other coastal cities, including Long Beach, remain under consideration. A final decision on the host site has not yet been announced.

In a surprising turn of events, the LA28 Olympic Organizing Committee has reversed its decision to host the 2028 Olympic equestrian events at Galway Downs in Temecula Valley—just weeks after the Los Angeles City Council officially approved the venue on March 28, 2025. Galway Downs, a 242-acre premier equestrian facility, had been selected for its ability to support all three Olympic equestrian disciplines—dressage, eventing, and jumping—within its existing infrastructure. The choice aligned seamlessly with LA28’s sustainability goals, eliminating the need for new construction. Local leaders and equestrian advocates have expressed deep disappointment. Temecula Mayor Brenden Kalfus stated that Galway Downs had “proven its capability to host Olympic-caliber events,” while U.S. Representative Darrell Issa criticized the move as “arbitrary,” urging the committee to provide greater transparency regarding its decision-making process. While LA28 has not yet confirmed an alternative location, speculation is growing around Santa Anita Park in Arcadia—an iconic venue that previously hosted equestrian events during the 1984 Olympics. Despite the setback, Galway Downs remains a staple of the national and international equestrian scene and will continue to host top-tier competitions in the years ahead.

Calico Ghost Town, nestled in the rugged desert 10 miles north of Barstow, California, offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the boom-and-bust cycles of the American West. Established in 1881, this historic silver mining town quickly rose to prominence as one of the richest silver strikes of the 1800s. Its fortunes flourished until the late 1890s, when the global value of silver plummeted, reducing the once-lucrative trade to pennies on the dollar. Fortunately, Calico’s story didn’t end there. Rich deposits of borax were discovered in the Calico Mountains during the early 1890s, breathing new life into the town. Mining operations continued until around 1910, when even larger borax deposits were uncovered near what is now Boron, California, closer to Los Angeles. In 1950, Walter Knott, founder of Knott’s Berry Farm, purchased Calico and lovingly restored it to its former glory. His efforts preserved the legacy of one of the West’s most prosperous mining towns. In 1967, Knott generously donated Calico to the County of San Bernardino, ensuring its preservation as a County Regional Park. Today, the park serves as a living museum dedicated to educating visitors about the town’s rich history, from its silver mining heyday to its role in borax production. Calico Ghost Town remains a cherished destination for history buffs, families, and adventurers, where the spirit of the Old West comes alive in its restored buildings, mine tours, and storytelling campfires. What to Do at Calico Ghost Town • Explore the Historic Town: Wander through the restored 1881 silver mining town. • Mine Tours: Step into Maggie Mine, an authentic silver mine from the 1880s. • Train Rides: Enjoy scenic views on the Calico Odessa Railroad. • Pan for Gold: Try your luck at gold panning—a fun activity for all ages. • Shops and Dining: Browse for unique souvenirs and savor classic American eats. • Camping and Hiking: Stay overnight at the Calico Campground or explore nearby trails. Visitor Information • Open Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM • Closed: Christmas Day • Location: 36600 Ghost Town Road, Yermo, CA 92398 • Directions: Take Interstate 15, exit Ghost Town Road, and follow the signs. • Phone: (760) 254-2122 • Website: calicotown.com