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6 | PULSE Fa l l 2 0 1 6 LAURA ROE STEVENS Laura is a South Bay freelance writer, yoga teacher, budding novelist and mother of two adorable boys. JAMES F. MILLS James is an award-winning journalist who started his career in his home state of North Carolina. He has written for a variety of publications, served as the editor of AOL's West Hollywood Patch and now works for the American Film Institute. CAROLE JAKUCS, RN, BSN, PHN Carole is a freelance writer, certified public health nurse and health/fitness enthusiast who writes for a variety of publications. E D I T O R ' S L E T T E R CONTRIBUTORS T here's no question that we in the South Bay experience the holidays somewhat differently than the rest of the country. We might not have snow to traipse through to Grandma's house or sleigh bells ringing down the lane, but there is one thing we have in abundance—trees! Trees are the centerpiece of Torrance Memorial Medical Center's annual Holiday Festival, held this year from November 29 through December 4. This year 36 trees will be decorated and displayed, then auctioned off. Past themes have included safari, surfing, USC, Mardi Gras— all unique, innovative ideas from local tree designers. The event also features a boutique, kids' activities, a food court, gala and fashion show. Read more on page 42. There are lots of other ideas for your holidays in this issue of Pulse, like two delicious recipes from our own executive chef Sam Sellona, and a story on the benefits of our favorite holiday activity—singing. And this is a time of year when it pays to keep your brain calm and functioning well. Torrance Memorial neurologists Bernard Ullman and Ben Tseng share the latest on everyday brain health and tips for keeping your mind sharp for years to come (page 30). We also celebrate the newest addition to Torrance Memorial: the Mother/Baby unit. Writer (and mother of two) Laura Roe Stevens gives us a preview on page 36. Stay warm and healthy, and enjoy your friends and family this holiday season! —The Editors LET THE FESTIVITIES BEGIN!