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Weekend Events: February 9 – 11

Los Angeles provides no limit of things to do, some awesome and some not so awesome.

Since time is precious in this fast paced city we curate a list of things to do in Los Angeles for every weekend that’ll help you decide how you want to spend your limited supply of attention (not to mention dollars!).

This weekend in L.A. (February 9-11) includes a Cupid’s Undie Run in Santa Monica, the San Gabriel Lunar Festival, a Broke Hearts Circus at Angel City Brewery, a Reggae Fest at the Queen Mary, and MUCH more.

Enjoy!

Friday February 9th, 2018

1. Visit the Skirball Cultural Center this Friday for Open Shabbat, a communal meal, held outdoors, featuring a farm-fresh vegetarian menu. This reimagined version of a Jewish ritual is meant to be a meaningful life practice for all.

2. Celebrate Valentine’s Day early at Cinespia’s special 25th anniversary screening of Poetic Justice at Downtown Los Angeles’ Palace Theater. FREE

3. The 9th Annual Edwardian Ball & World’s Faire returns to the Globe Theater in Los Angeles on Saturday buy the day before that there will be a World’s Faire held. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. (DISCOUNTED) via Goldstar

4. Greenbar Distillery will open up their facility for a tour of their organic distillery. The tour is one hour long and guests will have a chance to learn about the process of spirit making and taste some of the Greenbar portfolio. NOTE: Guests can get a free distillery tour & tasting with code LAHEART when booking.

5. There’s a one-man, family-friendly adaptation of Charles Dickens Great Expectations at The Wallis in Beverly Hills. Performances will run February 8 through 11. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. (DISCOUNTED) via Goldstar

6. Head to The Madelin Garden in Pasadena for high tea and a performance of Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest. (DISCOUNTED) via Goldstar

7. The Last Bookstore presents a reading and discussion with Laurie Penny about the Feminist Future. Penny is an award-winning writer, critic, political journalist and author of five non-fiction books. FREE

8. The Pan African Film Festival (PAFF) returns to Los Angeles February 8-19. Now in its 26th year, the 12-day festival will showcase over 100 new films and the talented artists who created them.

9. The Groundlings Theatre presents their latest main stage show, Sweet Valley Groundlingsperforming this Friday. (DISCOUNTED) via Goldstar

10. Free admission at: Long Beach Museum of Art

Saturday February 10th, 2018

11. See more than 100 pieces from one of America’s most iconic artists when Something Resembling Truth, a new show focusing on the work of Jasper Johns, opens at The Broad in Downtown Los Angeles on February 10.

12. Cupid’s Undie Run returns to The Victorian in Santa Monica for a “brief” run for a great cause. The event starts at the Victorian in Santa Monica, where you party, run roughly a mile, then party some more.

13. Street Food Cinema presents Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining on the big screen at Downtown Palace Theatre. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

14. The One Love Cali Reggae Fest returns to the Queen Mary in Long Beach February 10-11 for an entire weekend of dancing to your favorite reggae music on Los Angeles’ historic cruise ship. See Nas, Ben Harper & the Innocent Criminals, Matisyahu, Yellowman and more.

15. L.A.’s only live animated comedy show Picture This! is back with another free show at The Virgil. FREE

16. The 9th Annual Edwardian Ball takes over the Globe Theatre in DTLA  for a whimsical celebration of art, live music, riveting theatre, fashion, literature, ballroom dancing, DJs, circus, and the beloved creations of the late, great author and illustrator Edward Gorey. The 2018 season will focus on Gorey’s story The Raging Tide: or, The Black Doll’s Imbroglio. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. (DISCOUNTED) via Goldstar

17. Positive Vibes a free Silent Disco YOGA taking place at FIGat7th is an all-day outdoor party that inlcludes disco yoga, sound bath sessions, tarot card readings, Dublab music, vegan food and much more. Attendees can also enjoy temporary tattoos, body painting, DJ sets and a live band curated by Dublab, arts and crafts, vegan food and drink options, a beer garden and lounge area by Spaceland. FREE

18. The L.A. Cookie Con & Sweets Show, at the Anaheim Convention Center February 10-11 features baking demos and workshops, celebrity chefs and special guests, five different stages and hundreds of samples all day. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

19. The San Gabriel Lunar New Year Festival taking place in the San Gabriel Mission District will feature a street food fair, a marketplace, carnival games, a chalk art contest, live music, and a kids’ zone.

20. Retro style aficionados can checkout the Vintage Fashion Expo at The Reef in DTLA February 10-11. Shoppers will find clothing, jewelry, and accessories from dozens of dealers. Exhibitors will showcase their vintage couture, period pieces, fine jewelry, and more from the late 18th century through the 20th century.

21. Descanso Gardens invites patrons and newcomers to visit for a day and give back to the community during Community Service Day. FREE

22. Looking for a little free comedy this weekend in NELA? The Frogtown Show is a free monthly comedy show that takes place at Spoke Bicycle Cafe along the L.A. River. Light bites, wine and beer specials will be available for the evening. FREE

Sunday February 11th, 2018

23. FLAX Project presents “The Dialectic of the Stars,” a free art festival taking place at five iconic venues in Los Angeles in the month of February. The festival will feature stimulating arts events incorporating cinema, music, mobile artworks, a concert of motorcycles, dance and more. This Friday the event kicks off at Lloyd Wright’s iconic Sowden House in Los Feliz. FREE

24. Angel City Brewery’s festival for the lovelorn, the Broken Hearts Circus, returns to Downtown Los Angeles for a lively pre-Valentine’s Day bash. Enjoy games from Two Bit Circus, a stilt walker, circus performances from TRIBE, artisan vendors, food and live music. It’s free to attend. FREE

25. Take free dance lessons with Debbie Allen at The Wallis. The famed actress/dancer/choreographer will teach a salsa class this Sunday. FREE

26. Le Salon de Musiques presents a stage free chamber musical experience with champagne and high tea to follow at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion this Sunday. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

27. The Skirball and LA’s oldest literary arts organization, Beyond Baroque will celebrate it’s fiftieth anniversary with an afternoon of readings and discussion focused on the legacy of writer-activist James Baldwin. Alfre Woodard will host the program, which includes remarks by LA poet laureate Robin Coste Lewis and performances of Baldwin’s work by actor Jussie Smollet. FREE

28. The Seventh Annual Chinese New Year Celebration in Beverly Hills taking place at the Saban Theatre will feature the “Charming Jing-Jin-Ji” variety show with live acrobatics, musical performances and more.

29. Friendship Buddies is a weekly stand-up comedy show at the Verdugo Bar in Glassell Park. Come hangout in the back patio, enjoy a cocktail, and LOL to outstanding stand-up comedians in Los Angeles. FREE

30. Free admission at: Museum of Latin American Art and Craft and Folk Art Museum (pay what you can)

Schedule provided by We Like LA. 

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The 25 Most Popular National Parks in America

For many of us living in big cities, the sad truth is that the only time we remember there are parts of this great nation not covered in condos and fast-casual restaurants is when we’re Instagramming them from 36,000 feet. Which is also when we think to ourselves, “Wow, I wish there was a way I could see all that beauty up close and without a plane wing in my way.” Well, turns out, there is! And it’s called our National Parks System.

And as a reminder of the scope of America’s awe-inspiring natural beauty (and its 59-strong park system created by the coolest dude ever from New York), we thought it’d be fun to take the 25 most-visited parks in 2016 and rank them by their level of adventure and sheer, mind-blowing spectacle. Turns out, yes, it was fun.

Capitol Reef National Park

Utah
Ask anyone to name Utah’s five National Parks, and odds are Capitol Reef is the one they forget among its arched-and-canyoned cousins. You should remember Capitol Reef for the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile wrinkle in the earth and a feature you won’t find elsewhere in the state. It’s also been designated as a “Gold Tier” Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association, so camping here in the summer will yield some of the prettiest stars you’ve ever seen. At just over a million visitors last year, it offers much of the red rocks and striking geology of other Utah parks, without the crowds.

Hot Springs National Park

Arkansas
The top tourist attraction in the Natural State (fitting nickname, right?) is the 16th-most visited yet smallest National Park in the country, hosting nearly 1.5 million visitors every year. The big draw here is  “Bathhouse Row” — where you can bathe in the healing natural waters of the hot springs — which makes for a rejuvenating weekend getaway, especially if you like the lit-fireworks aroma of sulfur. Beyond the baths, the park is a jewel of Arkansas nature, with winding roads and a mountain tower giving a spectacular view of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains.

Saguaro National Park

Arizona
You know those comically oversized cacti Wile E. Coyote used to fall into every time his ACME contraption didn’t work? Those are modeled after the Giant Saguaro cactus, the most distinct feature is this park straddling the city of Tucson. The park, created to preserve the cacti, boasts some of the toughest short hikes you’ll find in a national park. Even during mild weather, a trek into nature here can take you up 5,000 feet of elevation in 15 miles of desert. Hiking Saguaro might not be for the novice, but a nice air-conditioned drive will take you through a Western landscape that’s unmistakably Arizona.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Ohio
Is anyone surprised that a national park with the same name as a river that once caught fire includes an old Superfund site? And we’re not talking about the former location of the Richfield Coliseum, which housed the perpetually toxic Cleveland Cavaliers, although it’s actually in the park too. No, we’re talking about the old Krejci Dump. But why focus on 47 acres of toxic waste, when the CVNP boasts 33,000 acres (!!) of gorgeous waterfalls, caves, biking/horse trails, and historic sections of the Ohio and Erie Canal.

Everglades National Park

Florida
Once upon a time, most of America’s seventh-largest metropolitan area was a river of grass where alligators crawled through black water under mangrove canopies, sawgrass stood tall under flying herons, and almost no man dared to go. What’s left of it sits just about 45 minutes west of Miami in the Everglades, a flat swath of big cypress trees and inhospitable terrain that remains the most distinct ecosystem of any National Park. Take a drive down US-41 to Everglades City and jump on an airboat ride to really get in the thick of it. Or, if you’re exceptionally lucky (and quiet), you may see an elusive Florida panther.

Shenandoah National Park

Virginia
Along the densely populated mid-Atlantic, no national park makes a faster, prettier escape to nature than this one, some 70 miles from DC and 100 from Baltimore. The main attraction here is Skyline Drive, a 105-mile road that winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers sweeping views of the valley and, in fall, an explosion of insane colors. It’s also home to a big chunk of the Appalachian Trail if you’re feeling ambitious, or smaller side treks: jaunts to Rose River or to South River Falls are both hikes under 3 miles.

Death Valley National Park

California, Nevada
The only national park that’s regularly confused with two different college football stadiums, this striking desert scape can be an acquired taste if you’re not into arid environs, but will delight anyone who wants the sensation of driving across a barren moon. This stretch of the Mojave Desert is home to the lowest point in North America at Badwater Basin, an eerie salt flats sitting 282 feet below sea level. The park is also dotted with ghost towns, some of which still have concrete remnants of their Wild West heydays. For a close-to-spiritual experience, head to Dante’s View at sunrise, where you’ll see the morning light reflect of the Sierra Nevada in dozens of different colors.

Joshua Tree National Park

California
The only national park to get its very own U2 album named after it has exploded in popularity over the past decade, now the 11th most-visited park with 2.5 million visitors. They’re not coming in droves to see if the streets do, in fact, have no name. They’re coming because Joshua Tree boasts perhaps the best collection of rock-climbing faces in the US. The desert park also has 501 archeological sites, and is home to the lower Coachella Valley, making it a popular side trip for music festival goers in the spring as well.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Tennessee, North Carolina
The MOST VISITED PARK IN AMERICA spans four counties across two states, and runs through part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Accessible from both Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Cherokee, North Carolina, the park has more than 1,660 different kinds of flowering plants — the most of any national park. Its highest point is Clingman’s Dome, where a 50-foot observation deck allows visitors to soak in some spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding beauty. More than 11 million annual visitors make it nearly twice as busy as the second-place Grand Canyon.

Arches National Park

Utah
Give whoever named this park credit: they didn’t mince words. This 120-square-mile national treasure outside Moab is all about arches, 2,000 of ‘em in fact. All formed from millions of years of sandstone erosion. The most famous is the Delicate Arch, a 65-footer that you might recognize from playing the license plate game — it’s on the Utah tag.

Haleakala National Park

Hawaii
If “climbing an active volcano” is at the top of your bucket list, well, it probably shouldn’t be — since, ya know, it involves climbing an ACTIVE VOLCANO. But if you still insist, the 10,023-foot Haleakala Mountain in the southeastern part of Maui Island is your spot. It’s got tons of hiking trails that are open to the public and is home to more endangered species than any other US park.

Olympic National Park

Washington
We’d like to think this is the seventh-most-visited national park in the nation for reasons other than the fact that it borders the Twilight fan-mecca that is Forks, Washington. Like, oh, maybe because it contains the ONLY temperate rainforest in the contiguous US, plus active tide pools and the Olympic Mountain range. But that’s probably just a bonus for people coming to see La Push.

Sequoia National Park

California
If you ever wondered what your pet iguana feels like when he looks up at you, visit the second-oldest national park in America. Here, outside Visalia, California, not only can you look up at the biggest tree in the world (the 275-foot tall, 60-foot wide General Sherman) but also at five of the 10 largest trees IN THE WORLD. They’re not easy to get to though: 84% of the park doesn’t have roads and is only accessible on foot or horseback.

Badlands National Park

South Dakota
The only National Park so awesome Bruce Springsteen wrote a song about it (that’s what that song is about, right?) is also the place where you’re most likely to find ancient dinosaur bones. The 30ish-million-year-old fossil deposits make this one of the most treasured archeological sites in America. Although if fossils aren’t your thing, perhaps unusual rock formations and sprawling prairies dotted with bison and bighorn sheep are, ’cause the Badlands has those too. Or for a truly other-worldly experience, head here at sunrise and watch the veritable moonscape change shades of orange, blue, and green.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Colorado
No, this park doesn’t encompass the ENTIRE Rocky Mountains, but rather a 415-square-mile section of the Colorado Front Range. Split by the Continental Divide, it’s almost two parks in one; the western side is the green paradise of vegetation, while the eastern half is the arid, mountainous region. In addition to encompassing 150 lakes and 359 hiking trails, RMNP’s also a peak bagger’s paradise — there are over 60 mountains taller than 12,000 feet.

Mount Rainier National Park

Washington
Part of why Seattle has the best skyline in America is because of this snow-capped beauty that sits about 80 miles south of the city. And unlike its ornery cousin Mount Saint Helens, Rainier is a dormant volcano whose surrounding park of lava fields have been covered with vibrant vegetation, waterfalls, old-growth forests, and 25 glaciers. In addition, some of the best climbers in the world use the 14,000-foot peak to practice for Everest, as the conditions at Rainier are the closest you’ll find to the Himalayan hill in the contiguous US.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Utah
Technically, Bryce Canyon isn’t a canyon, but a collection of naturally formed amphitheaters. But since “Bryce Collection of Amphitheaters” sounds like chain of corporate-owned music venues — and doesn’t look as good on a postcard — these natural geological formations which sit a mile high are referred to as a canyon. Every year, this park hosts a four-day astronomy festival where stargazers are rewarded for their trip to the desert with some insane views of the skies.

Acadia National Park

Maine
The oldest national park east of the Mississippi (and the largest tourist attraction in Maine), Acadia is by far one of the most picturesque spots in all the land, offering spectacular panoramic views of Somes Sound, Frenchman Bay, the Porcupine Islands, and Bar Harbor from the top of Cadillac Mountain. Located on Mount Desert Island, the park offers beaches, campgrounds, and 125 miles of hiking trails.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii
Not to be outdone by its Hawaiian counterpart at Haleakala, this 500-square-mile park has not one, but TWO active volcanoes, including one of the world’s most active, Kilauea. However, lava fields and eruptions from one of the world’s most active subaerial volcanoes, Mauna Loa, make this park a major worldwide geologic research site.

Grand Teton National Park

Wyoming
The massive peaks of the Teton Range are the emblematic symbol of this park, which also includes Jackson Hole and the signature 13,775-foot Grand Teton mountain for which the park is named. More than 3.2 million visitors come to the park annually to hike to glaciers, catch cutthroat trout, and to just chill by the park’s numerous lakes.

Glacier National Park

Montana
Glacier is another park whose name tells you everything you need to know. The mountains and lakes were formed by glaciers and make for possibly the best scenery of its kind in the United States… and in Canada! That’s right, this park is so spectacular that it stretches to British Columbia and Alberta — spanning over a million acres between the two countries. And, even with global warming and all, there are still 25 active glaciers on park land.

Zion National Park

Utah
No, you won’t find Morpheus, Trinity, or Neo walking around anywhere. That Zion was fake. This one, however, is a very real 15-mile canyon that sits at the crossroads of the Mojave Desert, the Colorado Plateau, and the Great Basin. What that means is you’ll find red rocks next to tropical waterfalls next to sprawling deserts, as well as species of wildlife that don’t typically cohabitate. If you don’t like all that dry desert heat, you can enjoy this park from the comfort of a free air-conditioned shuttle.

Grand Canyon National Park

Arizona
Definitely the most recognizable national park in America, the Grand Canyon is a lot more than just a big hole in the ground. Sure, you can make the daylong trek to the North or South Rim, soak it all in from the Skywalk observation deck, and spend the rest of the day figuring out what to do in the middle of the desert. Or, you can take a two-day hike from the top to the bottom (bring tons of water!!!), hop a mule so that you don’t have to carry said tons of water, or even raft some of the world’s most challenging rapids on the Colorado River — just be sure to book that trip WELL in advance.

Yosemite National Park

California
Picking the most scenic part of the prettiest state in America is tough, but it’s hard to argue with the absolutely gobsmacking riot of rocks, water, forests, fields and valleys you’ll find at Yosemite. Among the first things you see upon entry is the staggering El Capitan rock face, the largest piece of granite in the world. The park is home to more than 20 waterfalls, most notably the 2,425-foot Yosemite Falls and 2,140-foot Snow Creek Falls, Yosemite also offers visitors giant sequoias, behemoth glaciers, and destination hikes like the legendary Half Dome.

Yellowstone National Park

Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho
Not only was it the inspiration for Yogi Bear’s Jellystone (as if that wasn’t enough), but the nation’s oldest national park — which spans three states — is also home to Old Faithful, the legendary geyser that was discovered in 1870 and erupts every 35-120 minutes. The park also boasts the Grand Prismatic Hot Spring, the largest hot spring in America, and over 3,400 square miles of wilderness. Plus, like, a million chances to see buffalo and bears up close.

Article by Thrillist. 

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Moments from Super Bowl 52 that everyone is talking about

The Patriots’ dynasty has crumbled. Thanks to stellar late-game defense and a well-timed strip-sack, the Philadelphia Eagles were able to do what last year’s Atlanta Falcons could not: stave off a Tom Brady comeback and claw their way to a 41-33 victory. While the gridiron heroics were exciting to watch, last night’s 52nd Super Bowl also notably saw some crazy ads, a weird Justin Timberlake halftime show, and, of course, the birth of a new, good meme. Read on to relive the night’s best on-field and off-field highlights:

Tom Brady wore a conspiratorial outfit
Most viewers — at least those not aligned with the Patriots — turned on their TVs and got into their seats wanting to see Brady fail, still recovering from the sting of the last Super Bowl. Simply put, the veteran quarterback started the night as a villain. It didn’t help that he showed up looking like Evil Inspector Gadget.

Carrie Underwood starred in a live-action Zootopia remake

OK, not really. But while some viewers were surprised at how much of a bop the country singer’s Super Bowl anthem with Ludacris turned out to be, we couldn’t stop thinking about how much it looked like the end credits of Zootopia. Not bad! Just saying.

NBA star Karl-Anthony Towns was taking photos

Undoubtedly, the celeb with the best seat in the house was basketball player Karl-Anthony Towns. The Minnesota Timberwolves star was spotted on the sidelines sporting a “Free Meek Mill” jersey and a nice camera. Some figured he got the same photog gig for The Players’ Tribune that Kevin Durant had at Super Bowl 50, many were just jealous. Nice work, Big KAT.

Pink was not chewing gum, you guys

Right before she was set to sing the national anthem, P!nk casually spat something into her hand. Many critics tried to go after her on Twitter, assuming it was gum, but many were incorrect. (“It was a throat lozenge,” she tweeted.) Other haters were met with a good ol’ Charlie Sheen clap back: “Yeah but at least I suck while singing our countries national anthem,” she added, “and you just suck by yourself on a dirty couch. #winning.”

Eagles fans lost it during this Rocky hype video

In case all the Brady booing didn’t convince you this was a mostly Eagles crowd.

Bradley Cooper was having a great night

The only Eagles superfan who was probably more pumped to be there than KAT was Bradley Cooper. The Philly native narrated a hype video, donned moderate green, and soon after Alshon Jeffery’s first touchdown snag, did his best Shia LaBeouf “Just Do It” impression. Fly, “Iggles”! Fly!

https://twitter.com/knicks148/status/960305320772997120

Brandin Cooks got freaking powerbombed

This Patriots receiver, on the other hand, was not having a great night. He started the second quarter by hauling in a catch and trying to hurdle over an Eagles defender for a touchdown. The jump didn’t go as planned, though, and for a few moments, the football game turned into a professional wrestling match.

This field goal “attempt” didn’t go as planned either

With the Eagles up by six before the half, the Patriots tried to shave the deficit with a field goal. It didn’t happen. There were multiple missed kicks tonight, but none was more odd and mesmerizing to (re-)watch than this one. You could practically hear it go “DOINK!”

Everyone’s screens went blank

A few minutes before halftime, everyone’s screens went inexplicably and completely blank. It was either a very expensive mistake or a fantastic Black Mirror ad.

Justin Timberlake saluted Prince with a giant tarp

When news broke that Justin Timberlake would maybe perform with a Prince hologram, people lost their shit. What was probably meant to be a sincere tribute to the Purple One on his home turf just didn’t… feel right. (Especially considering Prince thought holograms were demonic.) Fortunately, the hologram didn’t happen. What we got instead was this giant tarp, which appeased some… but still pissed off many others.

https://twitter.com/SBNation/status/960343914602430464

This kid just wanted his Timberlake selfie

The real star of the halftime show was this kid who quickly fumbled for his phone and tried to snag, as Timberlake put it, some “Super Bowl Selfies!” “I just thought to myself, ‘I’ll never get this opportunity again in my whole life,'” the kid told the Pioneer Press. “I just went for it.” On the inside, he was excited, but on the outside, it looked like he was busy thinking about things like “Cat Person,” Scientology, and why Ellen DeGeneres was standing right next to him. In other words, he was immediately memed to oblivion.

Super Bowl MVP Nick Foles threw and caught a TD

The Eagles star made history right before halftime by becoming the first quarterback to both throw and catch a touchdown in a Super Bowl. It was a particularly brutal play for Patriots fans to watch, as it happened not long after the Pats tried something similar with a stone-handed Tom Brady. Pretty much everyone made the same joke, paraphrasing Gisele Bündchen’s infamous “my husband cannot fucking throw the ball and catch the ball at the same time” remark. Shruggie.

https://twitter.com/sportingnewsca/status/960349028608368642

Tom Brady fumbled at the worst possible time

Near the end of the fourth quarter, while mounting another late-game comeback, Brady misfired. The Eagles’ Brandon Graham found the Pats’ signal-caller cocking his arm and seized on the opportunity to strip-sack him. The turnover — the New England’s first — set up a field goal that would give Philadelphia an eight-point lead and almost certain victory. While Brady played an incredible game — he threw for a Super Bowl record 505 yards and topped the 10,000 mark for passing yards in postseason games — the Lombardi Trophy wasn’t in the cards. “It feels so good.” Graham said after the game. “Everybody that doubted us? We world champs.”

Eli Manning and Odell Beckham, Jr. recreated a Dirty Dancing scene

Weird commercials this year, as usual! But we especially liked watching this Dirty Dancing riff and seeing Danny DeVito (as a red M&M) get hit by a truck.

http://gph.is/2nHXwbr

OK, Bradley Cooper was having a REALLY great night

After Jake Elliott’s dagger of a field goal, we checked back in with Cooper to find him thanking the heavens. Or cursing at them. He made a deal with the devil that if the Eagles won he would make a Midnight Meat Train sequel, right?

Kevin Hart tried to get onto the Eagles’ celebration stage, but security rejected him

There’s usually not that much to see after the game’s over, but this year, Philly fan Kevin Hart was caught trying his best to make it onto the celebration stage. Unfortunately, he was Mutombo’d. But hey, as they say, there’s always next year!

Article courtesy of Thrillist. 

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Economic update for the week ending February 3, 2018

200,000 new jobs created in January – wages rise at highest pace since 2009 – The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that U.S. employers added 200,000 new jobs in January. That beat experts expectations of 180,000. The unemployment rate held steady at 4.1%. Wages were the highlight of the report, as average hourly wages rose 2.9% compared to one year ago. It was the largest year-over-year increase since 2009. December 2017’s average hourly rate was 2.6% higher than last December, so a 2.9% increase took experts by surprise.
 
Stocks posted their worst week since January 2016 – After four straight weeks of gains, stocks gave up much of those gains for the year in the first weekly drop for U.S. indexes in 2018. Most of the concern this week centered around the prospects of higher interest rates, which increase borrowing costs for corporations. Key developments were: The administration has begun to institute some tariffs on some goods imported to help U.S. manufacturers. So far it’s mainly solar panels and washing machines, but analysts feel there will be more products added. This was very positive for U.S. companies that make solar panels and washing machines, but is expected to increase the cost of those items to consumers.  As more items get added that increases costs of those items, which increases the prospect of higher inflation. Higher inflation leads to higher interest rates.  Later in the week Jay Powell, who was confirmed last week as the next Chairman of the Federal Reserve, who is replacing Janet Yellen, made comments which seemed to signal that he will be more hawkish on increasing short term interest rates. Finally, on Friday the January jobs report suggested that wages were beginning to rise at a more healthy rate. That will give people more spending power and also increases the risk of inflation, which will put even more pressure on The Fed to raise rates.  The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 25,520.96, down from last week’s close of 26,616.71.  After dropping 4.1% this week, it’s still up 3.2% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 2,762.13, down from 2,872.77 last week.  It lost 3.9% this week, but it’s still up 3.3% year to date. The NASDAQ closed at 7,240.95, down from 7,507.77 last week. It dropped 3.5% this week, but it is still up 4.9% year-to-date.

Treasury Bond Yields –  Bonds reacted negatively to the wage increase in the jobs report on Friday and rates surged for the day, as higher wages lead to higher inflation. It’s possible bond yields will settle a little lower as the numbers digest. Obviously, future months year over wage comparisons will determine if January’s increase is a trend or was just an outlier.  The February jobs report will now be highly anticipated by bond investors.  The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 2.84%, up sharply from 2.66% last week. The 10-year reached the highest level since 2014.  The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 3.08%, up from 2.91% last week. We watch bond rates because mortgage rates follow bond rates.
Mortgage  rates higher this week –  Although rates are at the highest level in one year, they are still near historic lows. The February 1, 2018 Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that the 30-year fixed mortgage rate average was 4.22%, up from last week’s 4.15%. The 15-year fixed was 3.68%, up from 3.62% last week. The 5-year ARM was 3.53%, up from 3.52% last week. Rates were even higher on Friday, so I’d expect them to be slightly higher again next week. This was after the jobs report showed that wages rose 2.9%, year-over-year in January, the fastest pace since 2009. Although it’s healthy for wages to rise they have been very stubborn for several years. While this was good news for the economy, it raises the prospect of inflation which has been very tame. Higher inflation causes interest rates to rise.
Have a great weekend,
Syd
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Tickets for the ‘Saved by the Bell’ Diner Pop-up Now on Sale

If you’ve been anxiously awaiting more news about the local outpost of Saved by the Max — the Saved by the Bell-inspired pop-up diner that held Chicagoans in thrall for an entire year — you’re in luck. The official Los Angeles opening date of May 1 has finally been announced, and tickets went on sale Friday, February 2 at 9 a.m.

Though Saved by the Max will look like the sitcom’s The Max diner, with its neon decor, jukebox, and vintage video games, there’s more to this eatery than mere ‘90s nostalgia. Its chef-driven menu was created by Brian Fisher, who helmed the kitchen at Michelin-starred restaurant Schwa in Chicago’s Wicker Park.

As in Chi-town, the menu here will offer dishes like the Kelly Kapowski Monte Cristo, A.C. Sliders, the Bayside Burger, the Preppy BLT and Mac & Screech.

As we told you last fall, Saved by the Max will be located at the West Hollywood Gateway shopping center at La Brea Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard. “First semester” will run through early October, with plans for the pop-up to eventually make its way around the country.

Each tickets includes admission and dinner. As Saved by the Max was a smash success in Chicago, reservations are highly encouraged. Walk-ups will be limited.

Article by We Like LA. 

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Fun Things to do This February in Los Angeles

Need stuff to do this month in Los Angeles?

We looked ahead on our calendar to focus in on some of the best events happening in February around Los Angeles that you should probably have on your radar. After all, better to get your tickets now than wait till the last minute and find out your favorite event is sold out.

February 2018 event highlights include CoffeeCon, the 119th Golden Dragon Parade in Chinatown, a Cupid’s Undies Run, the Queen Mary’s ScotsFestival, Palm Springs Modernism Week, the Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Show, and more!

1. First Fridays at Natural History Museum (Feb. 2)

Visit the Natural History Museum on February 2 for First Fridays. This event explores L.A. inventiveness, capped with live music from two local legends: John Doe and Exene of the iconic band X! -> More information

2. Smorgasburg Dumpling Day at Santa Anita Park (Feb. 3)

Indulge in an afternoon of dumplings, beer and horse racing at Smorgasburg Dumpling Day at Santa Anita Park on February 3. -> More information

3. Boomtown Brewery’s 3rd Anniversary Party in DTLA (Feb. 3)

DTLA’s Boomtown Brewery celebrates its three-year anniversary with a free party on February 3! Savor a brand-new Anniversary Beer, get a t-shirt printed — a rare, one-of-a-kind anniversary tee! — visit the photo booth, watch burlesque & more. -> More information

4. CoffeCon LA 2018 (Feb. 3-4)

Whether you enjoy it black, with cream, iced or hot, this is the conference for any & all coffee-lovers. Enjoy two-days of coffee tastings & classes! -> More information – Discount tickets

5. Pop-Up Magazine’s “Winter Issue” at the Theatre at Ace Hotel (Feb. 5)

Stop by Pop-Up Magazine’s Winter Issue at the Ace Hotel for a live magazine-style variety show for comedic genius and real-life storytelling. -> More information

6. Pan African Film & Arts Festival (Feb. 8-19)

The Pan African Film Festival (PAFF) returns to Los Angeles February 8-19. Now in its 26th year, the 12-day festival will showcase over 100 new films and the talented artists who created them. -> More information

7. Cupid’s Undie Run at The Victorian in Santa Monica (Feb. 10)

Cupid’s Undie Run returns to The Victorian Santa Monica on February 10 for a “brief” run for a great cause. The event starts at the Victorian in Santa Monica, where you party, run roughly a mile, then party some more. -> More information

8. One Love Cali Reggae Fest 2018 at The Queen Mary (Feb. 10-11)

The One Love Cali Reggae Fest returns to the Queen Mary in Long Beach February 10-11 for an entire weekend of dancing to your favorite reggae music on Los Angeles’ historic cruise ship. See Nas, Ben Harper & the Innocent Criminals, Matisyahu, Yellowman & more. -> More information

9. 9th Annual Edwardian Ball at the Globe Theatre in DTLA (Feb. 9-10)

The 9th Annual Edwardian Ball & World’s Faire comes to the Globe Theater in LA February 9, while February 10 marks the debut of Los Angeles’ first-ever Edwardian World’s Faire. -> More information

10. Positive Vibes: FREE Silent Disco YOGA at FIGat7th (Feb. 10)

Visit FIGat7th on February 10 for Positive Vibes, a free, epic, all-day outdoor party! Enjoy silent disco yoga, sound bath sessions, tarot card readings, Dublab music, vegan food & much more. Attendees can also enjoy temporary tattoos, body painting, DJ sets and a live band curated by Dublab, arts and crafts, vegan food and drink options, a beer garden and lounge area by Spaceland. -> More information

11. FREE Mardi Gras Concert at Historic Union Station (Feb. 13)

Be a part of the Second Line Tradition by attending this FREE Mardi Gras Concert by the Mudbug Brass Band at historic Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles! -> More information

12. Lucha VaVOOM Two-Night Valentine’s Spectacle at The Mayan Theater (Feb. 14-15)

Everyone’s favorite collision of Mexican masked wrestling, burlesque and comedy returns for Valentine’s Day with a two-night spectacle at Downtown Los Angeles’ Mayan Theater February 14-15. -> More information

13. Palm Springs Modernism Week (Feb. 15-25)

Palm Springs Modernism Week returns February 15-25 to celebrate all things midcentury modern including architecture, art, interior landscape design and vintage culture. -> More information

14. Chocolate & Art Show Los Angeles 2018 (Feb. 16)

The Chocolate & Art Show Los Angeles returns to The Vortex in DTLA on February 16-17, with chocolate fondue, the work of up-and-coming artists & more. -> More information

15. Lunar New Year at Santa Monica Place (Feb. 17)

Celebrate the Year of the Dog during Lunar New Year at Santa Monica Place on February 17. Enjoy Asian-themed stilt walkers, traditional Korean fan dancers, Chinese music, The Voice’s Katherine Ho as emcee & more. -> More information

16. The 119th Golden Dragon Parade & Chinese New Year Festival in Chinatown (Feb. 17)

The 119th Golden Dragon Parade and Chinese New Year Festival returns to Los Angeles’ Chinatown on February 17, with floats, marching bands, entertainers, a culinary stage, artisans & much more. -> More information

17. Long Beach Comic Expo (Feb. 17-18)

Long Beach Comic Expo, a celebration of comic books and pop culture, returns to Long Beach Convention Center on February 17-18. -> More information – Discount tickets

18. Queen Mary’s ScotsFestival & International Highland Games XXV (Feb. 17-18)

Queen Mary’s ScotsFestival & International Highland Games XXV returns February 17-18 to celebrate 25 years of the annual event with an array of authentic Scottish activities, athletics, dancing, entertainment, drinks and cuisine. -> More information

19. Lessons from Leaders of the Civil Rights Movement at The Skirball (Feb. 22)

Passing the Torch — From Selma to Today: Lessons from Leaders of the Civil Rights Movement is a panel discussion with four fascinating thought leaders taking place at The Skirball on February 22. -> More information – Discount tickets

20.Venice Arts’ Annual Speakeasy at the Townhouse in Venice (Feb. 24)

Celebrate like it’s 1928 during Venice Arts’ Annual Speakeasy at the Townhouse in Venice on February 24! This unforgettable party will take place in the Prohibition-era Speakeasy located below the Townhouse, which dates back to 1915. -> More information

21. 2018 Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Show (Feb. 24-25)

Meet travel celebs like PBS’ Rick Steves, Samantha Brown, learn how to pack well and decide where to go for your next trip at the Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Show at the Los Angeles Convention Center on February 24-25. -> More information – Discount tickets

22. L.A. Chinatown Firecracker 5k & 10k (Feb. 24-25)

Stop by the Firecracker Festival in Los Angeles’ Chinatown for two days filled with friendly-competition, carnival games, food trucks & more! -> More information

23. KPCC in Person Presents Airtalk’s FilmWeek: 2018 Oscar Preview at the Ace Hotel (Feb. 25)

On February 25, Larry Mantle and the film critics of KPCC’s AirTalk convene on the stage of the historic Theatre at the Ace Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles to discuss and debate this year’s Oscar nominees for a special taping in front of a live audience. -> More information

Story courtesy of We Like LA. 

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Rodeo Realty’s Calabasas agent Randi Feilich serving as Humane Society United States District Leader Volunteer

Congratulations to Rodeo Realty’s Calabasas agent Randi Feilich for becoming a leader for animal protection in her community!

Randi will serve as Humane Society United States District Leader Volunteer for California’s 33rd Congressional District.

Her newest position was announced in the Calabasas Enterprise newspaper.

“In her new role, Randi will advance HSUS’ federal and state animal protection legislative priorities, including working on the November ballot initiative “Prevent Cruelty California”,” said the Calabasas Enterprise.

Randi’s commitment will advance compassionate and powerful efforts on behalf of all animals.

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Weekend Events: February 2 – 4

Los Angeles provides no limit of things to do, some awesome and some not so awesome.

Since time is precious in this fast paced city we curate a list of things to do in Los Angeles for everyweekend that’ll help you decide how you want to spend your limited supply of attention (not to mention dollars!).

This weekend in L.A. (February 2-4) includes First Fridays at NHM, CoffeeCon, Smorgasburg Dumpling Day, Boomtown Brewery Anniversary Party, The Great Rock and Roll Flea Market and MUCH more.

Enjoy!

 Friday February 2nd, 2018

1. First Fridays return to the Natural History Museum this Friday. The event will explore L.A. inventiveness, capped with live music from two local legends: John Doe and Exene of the iconic band X.

2. GIRLSCHOOL is a three-day music and ideas festival that includes panels and workshops with female leaders, speakers, educators, activists, and more happening at The Bootleg Theater.

3. There’s a MCA Tribute at The Egyptian on Friday. The program will screen music video sequel “Fight for Your Right Revisited,” Beastie Boys concert film AWESOME; I F@#KIN’ SHOT THAT and a discussion following the short with Mike D and Ad-Rock of the Beastie Boys.

4. Take an afternoon yoga class in beautiful Grand Park. The 45 minute workout is complimentary to the public every. After yoga, checkout the many food trucks lining the park and grab lunch al fresco style.

5. The Griffith Observatory hosts a monthly forum where some of the most amazing phenomena in the known universe are explained and discussed. It’s called All Space Considered and it takes place on the first Friday of every month. FREE

6. Since its the first Friday of the month check out all the cool events happening around town including block parties and art walks for First Fridays.

7. Take a Downtown Los Angeles foodie walking tour and savor what the bustling neighborhood has to offer. The tour is three hours long, participants will stop at six popular spots to eat and the tour guide will take folks through the history of DTLA. Happening Friday and Saturday. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

8. In celebration of the Metro Red Line’s 25th birthday this year, they’ve partnered with filmmaker Hervé Cohen to present “Life Underground,” an immersive art media installation and interactive web documentary on view at Los Angeles Union Station from January 30 to February 5. FREE

9. Rockwell: Table & Stage presents the Unauthorized Musical Parody of Jurassic Park. Happening all weekend. (DISCOUNTED) via Goldstar

10. Greenbar Distillery opens up their facility for a tour of their organic distillery. The tour is one hour long and guests will have a chance to learn about the process of spirit making and taste some of the Greenbar portfolio.

11. Free admission at: Norton Simon Museum (5 to 8 p.m.), Pasadena Museum of California Art (noon to 5 p.m.) and Long Beach Museum of Art.

Saturday February 3rd, 2018

12. CoffeeCon happening at The Reef in DTLA February 3-4 features a tasting floor, top coffee experts, tasting seminars and even hands-on brewing labs. Some of the classes from CoffeeCon 2017 included Intro to Grinding, Advanced Espresso, Latte Art, Turkish Coffee and more. Check for discounted tickets up to 50% off on Goldstar before making your purchase.

13. Boomtown Brewery will celebrate their three-year anniversary with a free 14-hour party. Stop by beginning at noon and enjoy a brand-new Anniversary Beer, a White Imperial brewed with rose petals and raspberries, plus T-shirt screen printing, a photo booth and food vendors serving food all day.

14. Wild Party: A Jazz Age Immersive Experience comes to The Masonic Center of Santa Monica this Saturday for an immersive experience in the spirit of 1926. Performances will take place in multiple locations throughout the venue and period attire is encouraged, but not required.

15. Smorgasburg Dumpling Day at Santa Anita Park will introduce the most interesting new dumplings in So Cal, from the likes of Workaholic, Brothecary, and more. Tickets cost $30 a person.

16. In honor of Black History Month, Witness: The John Edgar Wideman Experience is coming to Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills for a free performance of stories by one of the America’s premier fiction writers that examine the African-American experience with the aid of hip hop and other music. FREE

17. SteelCraft Long Beach will celebrate their one-year anniversary this Saturday with Taste of SteelCraft a mini food festival with live music, a kids’ movie screening at sunset, raffle and more.

18. The Groundlings Theatre presents their latest main stage show, Sweet Valley Groundlingsperforming this Friday. (DISCOUNTED) via Goldstar

19. BLVD Kitchen in Sherman Oaks will host a little pre-Valentine’s Day celebration where you can meet the BLVD Sweets Artisans, taste some treats and decorate some cookies. The event is free to attend and open to all ages.

20. “The Female Gaze” is dubbed as a super-sized parody of The View featuring over a dozen diverse co-hosts all with something to say. Performing at UBCT Sunset.

21. The Petersen Automotive Museum presents 50 of the most iconic Porsche sport cars of all time during “The Porsche Effect” on display in the Mullin Grand Salon.

22. FreeFrom will host the Made by a Survivor Valentine’s Day Market this Saturday at Mandala Yoga Center in Santa Monica. Browse and purchase handcrafted gifts made by previous survivors of domestic violence. 100% of proceeds will go directly to survivor-entrepreneurs and their businesses.

Sunday February 4th, 2018

23. Looking for a place to watch the big game? Checkout our round up of Where to Watch the Super Bowl in Los Angeles .

24. Vegan Street Fair, Eat Drink Vegan, and Smorgasburg LA join forces to bring you the first annual Super Vegan Sunday. Smorgasburg will transform into a vegan food haven with vendors offering special tons of vegan options

25. Marfa Book Co. the independent bookstore, publisher, and project space in Marfa, Texas will open its first experimental pop-up at the Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles this Sunday.

26. The Great Rock and Roll Flea Market will take over The Regent Theater in DTLA with an impressive selection of vintage collectors, antiquities dealers, vintage clothing, jewelry makers, music memorabilia, vinyl, local food vendors, food trucks, craftsmen and used musical instruments dealers. FREE

27. Gilbert and Sullivan’s Pirates of Penzance transforms the Pasadena Playhouse into a playground mixing actors and audience as reimagined by the Chicago theatre hooligans The Hypocrites now playing through February 25. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

28. The Hammer presents a family friendly screening of Bugsy Malone. Recommended for ages eight and up, the film is a reimagination of a gangster movie set in the Prohibition-era of Chicago made into a toe-tapping musical with an adorable all-kid cast staring Jodie Foster and Scott Bai. FREE

Schedule provided by We Like LA.

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Rodeo Realty’s Beverly Hills agent Barbra Stover featured on VoyageLA

Featured on VoyageLA this month is Rodeo Realty’s Barbra Stover. In the feature article, the Beverly Hills agent spoke about her life and her journey so far.

“My life has been a blessing in many ways. I almost died 20 years ago with alcohol poising, abusive relationships, and I was spiraling downhill pretty quick, buried in the LA / Hollywood Scene,” said Barbra to VoyageLA. “Then, 16 years ago, I picked myself up from my bootstraps, and met my amazing husband at that time, and started an amazing career in real estate. I finally learned what my desires and wants were. I wanted to help people find their dream home and also help families get through the selling process. My business grew tremendously which spilled into a plethora of awards with Rodeo Realty. I now have an incredible office over-looking the Montage in Beverly Hills. I closed 3 fantastic deals on New Year’s Eve. I love what I do. I can now say that I have been sober for 17 years and loving my life as a top producer with Rodeo Realty, and happily married for 16 years.”

Barbra also spoke about her struggles along the way.

“The challenges that I had was dealing with demanding high profile clients. There were times when I wanted to quit; however, believe it or not, I have learned how to be stronger on each deal,” said Barbra.

She also talked about Rodeo Realty.

“I am under Rodeo Realty and my LLC as Stover Estates,” said Barbra. “I specialize in high-end residential real estate all over the beach areas to Beverly Hills / westside areas. My main focus is Marina del Rey, Playa del Rey, Playa Vista and Venice. Silicon Beach area! I am proud of Rodeo Realty. Syd Leibovitch is an amazing leader and owner of the company.”

If she could go back and start over, Barbra tells VoyageLA that she would have started real estate when she was 18-years-old.

To read the entire feature article on Barbra Stover, click HERE.

VoyageLA focuses on highlighting the best of LA. The publication features interviews with some of the most inspiring professionals, entrepreneurs and independent businesses in Southern California.

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Where To Watch The Super Bowl In Los Angeles

This weekend it’s all about the big game. While the Philadelphia Eagles go up against the New England Patriots, thousands of Angelenos will be digging into 50-cent wings, bottomless beers and $2 shots. So where will you be? Check out our top picks on where to watch, eat, drink and play on Super Bowl Sunday.

DTLA’s Brack Shop Tavern will open its doors at 1 p.m. and offer 50 cent wings and $15 pitchers (60oz) of Budweiser and Goose Island IPA. Kickoff is at 3:30 p.m. and deals will last until the end of the game.

Baldoria located in Little Tokyo will be showing the game and offering happy hour throughout the entire game. Happy hour includes $8 pizzas and 20% off all beer, liquor, and wine. $2 shots will also be offered during every touchdown.

Mohawk Bend located in the heart of Echo Park, will host a Vegan Tailgate Party from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. with special game day offerings like the ‘Vegan Tailgate Platter’  from 2 p.m. until halftime, featuring vegan versions of sausage, pulled pork sliders, beef jerky and fried chicken paired with Anchor Lager for $23. In addition, Bowl of Wings will start at 3 p.m. serving real chicken wings with three different sauce choices for $12.

Ayara Lūk will host their popular Game Day Viewing party that will have football fanatics stuffed with bottomless Singha beer and AYCE Thai eats like Pad Thai, Chicken Satay and Spicy Tahi “Lobstah Roll.” There will be a 100 inch screen playing the game and tickets cost $60 in advance, $75 at the door and kids under 5 are free.

Chicas Tacos will team up with Boomtown Brewery in DTLA for a Big Game Fiesta from noon to 10 p.m. Guests can purchase eats by Chef Eduardo Ruiz while they watch the game on two 16-foot projection screen at Boomtown Brewery who will serve cool brews and wines all day.

Laurel Tavern in Hermosa Beach will play the Super Bowl on an extra-large projector and offer food and drink specials like $20 Corona buckets, $4 draft lager, $1 Smoked Louisiana Wings, and 2 for $4 sliders.

Recently re-opened Brennan’s in Marina Del Rey will host a Super Bowl House Party with food specials like Buffalo cauliflower $9, Buffalo Chicken pizza $15, Vegan Chili fries $9, Soft Pretzel with Beer Cheese $6 and $5 canned beer all day.

The Standing Room is hosting a Football Tailgate Party with a $45 all-you-can-drink and $6 off-menu food specials. The AYCE drink deal includes domestic, draft, wells, and house red or white wine. Food specials include Chicken Wings (Korean or Hot), Pork Rib Wings with Knob Creek BBQ Sauce, and Chili Cheese Hot Dogs, all of which are not on their daily menu. The deal starts at 1 p.m. and ends when the game is done.

Article courtesy of We Like LA.

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