Along with the sunscreen, book, toys and snacks we haul to our waterside of choice this summer, we need a beach towel or two.

ORLANDO, Fla. — If there's ever been a summer to visit a theme park — or two, or three — this is it.

Nadja is a sweet and affectionate cat with so many wonderful qualities.

LOS ANGELES — When Craig Haverstick approaches the beach with his dog in tow, Stanley instinctively knows he's in for a treat. His ears perk up and he starts sniffing the salty air.

Pippa is a sweet, 4-year-old, border terrier. She may be a bit shy when she meets new people, but with a little time, she opens up and shows her peppy, cuddly personality.

With the onslaught of Oscar contenders that debuted last November, there’s a good chance that a little-seen indie gem, “Starlet,” managed to fall off your radar during its short, theatrical run. Winner of the Special Jury Prize at the 2011 SXSW film festival, “Starlet” explores the unlikely friendship between a cheerful, aspiring actress (played by the winsome Dree Hemingway) and a cantankerous, elderly widow (the late Besedka Johnson).

What’s big in Japan now has the potential to be big in the East Valley, thanks to Lulubell Toy Bodega in downtown Mesa.

LOS ANGELES — A toy poodle that was rushed to the vet after swallowing a tube sock. A Great Dane that had to be operated on three times for eating his owner's shoulder pads.