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Merry-Go-Rounds

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 02:12:00 GMT

Image from Shutterstock

Soon after the first patent for an electric carousel was issued in 1871, every pleasure pier, amusement park, and traveling carnival had a collection of intricately carved horses rising and falling on brass poles. Today a few originals live on in the L.A. area, and new creations push the theme into the 21st century. Grab a kid or hop in the saddle for a classic ride.

Local Tradition
Made by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company, the Santa Monica Pier Carousel has been twirling for more than 50 years. Owner Adriana Roth, a carousel carver, regularly swaps out the wooden horses to keep them looking sharp. The 1916 Looff Hippodrome that houses it is the complete experience, with a calliope, arcade amusements, and an old-time soda fountain. While the ride has appeared in scores of films and TV shows, its most important cameo has been in family scrapbooks. “Every parent,” says Roth, “has a picture of their kid on a carousel.” » 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, 310-394-8042.

Gold Country
The merry-go-round at the Montebello Barnyard Zoo is fairly modest, but the surroundings make the trip worthwhile. A smidgen of a ghost town is home to the carousel, a locomotive, and a gold-panning attraction that evoke the Wild West. It’s even better when barnyard animals eat out of your hand and the sound of a distant ice cream truck beckons. » 600 Rea Dr., Montebello, 213-718-5442.

Vintage Beauty
Children race over rolling hills toward the striped dome as a Stinson band organ bellows. This tableau—accented by the ancient horses—could just as easily have taken place 75 years ago, when the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round arrived on the scene. Creaky and crackling, it’s a time machine, an art lesson, and a thrill ride all in one. » 4730 Crystal Springs Dr., Griffith Park, 323-665-3051.

Creature Feature
How often does your kid get to sit in a dung beetle chariot? The Tom Mankiewicz Conservation Carousel at the Los Angeles Zoo offers such oversize critters as a praying mantis, a tapir, and a poison dart frog. The amusement was donated by A&M record mogul Jerry Moss and his wife, so everyone can listen to Herb Alpert, the Go-Go’s, and other non-calliope artists. » 5333 Zoo Dr., Griffith Park, 323-644-4200.

Animal Kingdoms
One of the most heavily trafficked merry-go-rounds in the state, Disneyland’s King Arthur Carrousel is sparkling perfection. Walt himself rescued the team of white dressage horses from a freeway construction project before letting them gallop through Fantasyland’s medieval village. While you’re in Orange County, visit the pleasantly tattered hodgepodge at Knott’s Berry Farm. Master woodworker Gustav Dentzel carved the roosters, rabbits, and other beasts that race beneath painted scenes of California history. From the horsehair tails to the dusty gears overhead, the patina of a hundred summers lingers. » Disneyland: 1313 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, 714-781-7290. Knott’s Berry Farm: 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 714-220-5200.

Fiberglass Menageries
The two-story creations inside the Westfield Santa Anita and Westfield Topanga malls are the fast food of carousels: convenient and open all the time. They also offer a punch card that earns you a free ride after five trips. With their cartoonish detailing, the fiberglass animals will make purists scoff, but your three-year-old won’t argue the finer points of marsupial anatomy amid the swag and twinkling lights. » Westfield Santa Anita Mall: 400 S. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, 626-445-6255. Westfield Topanga Mall: 6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Canoga Park, 818-594-8740.

Best Costume Shops

By Linda Immediato — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 18:02:00 GMT

Grown-up Halloween enthusiasts are in good company in L.A., where dressing as someone else is a livelihood. Year-round shops have popped up across the city to meet the needs of costume designers working on showbiz projects—from indie movies and major motion pictures to national commercials and stage productions. Their bread and butter is your recreation. But don’t wait until the last minute or you may have to settle for Alf when you want to be Al Capone.

Carny Wanna-be
At Robinson Beautilities be prepared for sequin overload and more glitz than in Honey Boo Boo’s closet. Round stands brim with blinged-out trapeze bodysuits and over-the-big-top ringleader costumes. Signs identify categories such as Witches/Warlocks, Renaissance, and Cowboys/Indians to help you navigate the serpentine aisles. Rentals cost upwards of $65 for two days. A large array of wigs, professional makeup, and prosthetics also makes this a one-stop destination. » 12320 Venice Blvd., Mar Vista, 310-398-5757.

Plushy Fanatic
Well-made period costumes, including Marie Antoinette bustle dresses and Napoleonic empire gowns, along with scores of Disney characters, pack The Costume Shoppe warehouse—to the point where half the merchandise is consigned to racks 15 feet above your head. The back wall is lined with shoes, from gangster-era wing tips to ruby slippers. The store has a massive supply of “walkabouts” (furry one-pieces with giant heads); among the picks are (slightly creepy) takes on Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Mother Goose, and more than a dozen bunnies. Two-day rentals start at $65. » 746 W. Doran St., Glendale, 818-244-1161.

The DIY-er
You’ll have to buy the costumes at Ozzie Dots, but you’ll want to wear them again. Most of the inventory is composed of vintage pieces: 1960s women’s mod shifts and men’s groovy polyester button-downs that allow you to create your own retro look. If you’re stumped, go for the ready-to-wear Sexy Undead Witches, Sexy Zombie Cops, and Sexy Mummy Nurses. For that intricate Breaking Bad disguise there are lots of accessories (bald caps, plastic beakers) to complete your ensemble. » 4637 Hollywood Blvd., Holly-wood, 323-663-2867.

A Perfect Pair
A windowless space filled with wooden closets, Adele’s of Hollywood is not unlike an eccentric aunt’s attic. Liberace-inspired beaded gowns and faded, fringy ’20s dresses make up for the small selection of wigs and face paints; the creative, mostly hand-sewn rental garments start at $65 for three days. The shop also sells uncommon out-of-the-bag couples getups like “Bacon and Eggs” and “Glass of Tequila and Lime.” » 5034 Holly-wood Blvd., Hollywood, 323-663-2231.

Conversation Starter
Want to look like a star? Western Costume Company is a movie studio enterprise that rents to the public. Many of the offerings at this working-union costume house have appeared in films and on TV, so your choice might have been featured in The Sound of Music or Cleopatra, Mad Men or Boardwalk Empire. In addition to Vegas-style feather headdresses, bins are bursting with shoes and hats to finish the transformation. The 120,000-square-foot emporium (that’s eight miles of costumes) turns 100 this year. You’re usually required to book a fitting in advance and pay the consultant a $40 hourly fee, but come October 1, key pieces are displayed in a tent at prices ranging from $65 to $200 for a one-month rental. » 11041 Vanowen St., North Hollywood, 818-760-0900.

Theater Buff
If the play’s your thing, head to StarMakers. Narrow aisles teem with such stageworthy finery as My Fair Lady crinoline dresses and Henry VIII coats and ruffs. Not only are there the ever-popular Marilyn Monroe gowns and Elvis jumpsuits, but outfits suitable for flappers, Southern belles, and cowboys. Rentals are for three days and cost from $65 to $175 plus a 10 percent cleaning charge. For an additional fee, a hair and makeup artist is available to get you ready for show time. » 1380 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena, 626-797-6384.

The Procrastinator
When time’s a factor in assembling that Brave or Amazing Spider-Man interpretation, there’s Hollywood Toys & Costumes and its strong collection of prepackaged garb. The store also takes sexy attire to another level with practically bare-it-all numbers (thongs, pasties, garters) for the exhibitionist. » 6600 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323-464-4444,

Fireworks

By Linda Immediato — Fri, 29 Jun 2012 00:52:00 GMT

Photograph courtesy flickr/Bayasaa

If a soaring rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” synchronized to bursts of colored embers streaking across the night sky doesn’t spark your patriotic fire, we’re not sure what will. In Los Angeles you can get your “Yankee Doodle” on in the Valley, in the hills, or at the beach.

Beer and Burgers
The Rose Bowl, which has dubbed itself “America’s Stadium,” honors the birth of our nation with the all-day extravaganza Americafest 2012. It starts at 2 p.m. and offers food, crafts, games, an inflatable slide, and a bouncy house for kids. Inside the stadium ceremonies and performances begin at 7:15, followed almost two hours later by a 30-minute pyrotechnic ballet. » 1001 Rose Bowl Dr., Pasadena. Admission, $13; free for kids under 7.

Skydivers and Bands
The 64th Annual Pacific Palisades Fourth of July Parade, featuring “the Beav” (Leave It to Beaver star Jerry Mathers) as this year’s grand marshal, kicks off with a skydiving demo at 1:50 p.m. before marching along Sunset Boulevard. Crowds then head to Palisades Rocks the Fourth at Palisades Charter High School’s Stadium by the Sea for a two-hour, family-friendly set by the English Beat (“Mirror in the Bathroom”—it’s a classic) before the event’s explosive finale. » Palisades Charter High School, 15777 Bowdoin St., Pacific Palisades. Parade: free; Palisades Rocks the Fourth: $5; free for kids under 12.

Baseball and Hot Dogs
While fireworks are par for the course at Dodger Stadium, what’s more patriotic than baseball on the Fourth? Even the teams battling it out on the diamond sport the colors of Old Glory. If you don’t care about the game, prepare a picnic, hike to Elysian Park, and watch the show from your perch in the hills. (Parking anywhere nearby is a nightmare, so pack light.) » 1000 Elysian Park Ave., L.A.. Dodger Stadium: $10-$160.

Spokes and Sparklers
After being eliminated last year due to budget cuts, Fourth of July fireworks in the Marina have returned. Hopefully so has the long-running tradition of riding a bicycle from Venice to Burton W. Chace Park. In the past the stretch that runs parallel to the boardwalk filled with cyclists of all ages, their fingers crossed in the hope that the marine layer would lift by 9 p.m., when the fiery display was mirrored in the harbor. » Views in Marina del Rey at Burton W. Chace Park, 13650 Mindanao Way; Fisherman’s Village, 13755 Fiji Way; Marina (Mother’s) Beach, 4101 Admiralty Way. Free.

Starboard and Stripes
For a celebration with grandeur, board onetime troopship and former luxury liner the Queen Mary. Along with the “Red, White & Blues” spectacle, there’s dinner, a tour, and family entertainment. If the auditory assault hasn’t made you too jumpy to sleep, book a stateroom and stay the night in the (allegedly) haunted floating hotel. » 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach. Room rates, $97-$399.

Barry and the Bowl
He writes the songs that make the whole world sing, and on the Fourth at the Hollywood Bowl, Barry Manilow performs many of them as well as traditional patriotic numbers. He’ll be accompanied by the L.A. Philharmonic and a surprise “special guest.” The concert starts at 7:30, and the rockets’ red glare lights up the Bowl after sundown. » 2301 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood. Admission, $15-$220.

Mickey and Friends
This year Disneyland hosts a symphony of explosions for four consecutive nights (July 1 through 4) as part of “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky.” The recently renovated Disney California Adventure joins the action with a new Independence Day preshow for World of Color that includes video projections, light and water effects, and more nighttime sparkle. » 1313 S. Disneyland Dr., Anaheim. Admission, $87; $81 (ages 3 to 9).

Looking for other ways to celebrate America’s 236th birthday? Here are six more events that will brighten your bash:

VIPs and Magic Castles
Where: CBS Studio Center, 4024 Radford Ave., Studio City
When: July 4
What: The Studio City Chamber of Commerce, CBS, and Olive Crest are uniting to put on an activity-packed celebration, which will include a children’s fun-zone, a Magic Castle-themed show, a model airplane exhibit, acts staged throughout the lot, and a VIP package with extra, to-be-determined goodies. More information.

Starlight and Soul
Where: Starlight Bowl, 1249 Lockheed View Dr., Burbank
When: July 4
What: A C-17 flyover, a Presentation of Colors, the National Anthem, performances by the Red Chair School of Performing Arts, and a set by STONE SOUL and the Burbank Philharmonic Orchestra will color this bowl red, white, and blue. More information.

Lagoon and Boom
Where: Castaic Lake Lower Lagoon, 32132 Castaic Lake Dr., Castaic
When: July 4
What: Head to the lake for food, swimming, jumpers, music, and a picnic. The park will be open all day for the Fourth. More information.

Motos and Monsters
Where: Fairplex, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona
When: July 4
What: The Fairplex’s 26th annual fireworks spectacular features the “Monster Trucks and Big Air Freestyle Motocross” auto show. More information.

Intergalactic You and Me
Where: Home Depot Center, 18400 S. Avalon Blvd., Carson
When: July 4
What: Win or lose, the Los Angeles Galaxy will partake in a Fourth of July celebration after they play the Philadelphia Union. More information.

Heroes and Hoorahs
Where: Hansen Dam, 11770 Foothill Blvd., Lakeview Terrace, Los Angeles
When: July 4
What: Hansen Dam celebrates “Home Town Heroes” with a fireworks show, music, and entertainment, plus food from local vendors.

PLUS: See these and 46 MORE fireworks shows on our interactive map of Independence Day events:

View Fireworks Finder 2012 in a larger map

With additional reporting by Sean Fitz-Gerald

Podcasts

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 16:44:00 GMT

Photograph courtesy the Adam Carolla Show

Think of podcasts as talk radio programs on demand. You can listen to the digital files live as they’re streamed or find shows after they’ve been uploaded and archived on Web sites or iTunes. Most can be enjoyed for free, but should you get hooked on a host, you can subscribe for a fee, and new content will be automatically updated and stored on your computer (similar to a DVR). Since anybody with a laptop, a microphone, and a Web connection can create one, thousands of individual podcasts and entire networks cover every imaginable subject, from scrapbooking to witchcraft. Locally, comedy, science, art, and culture lead the pack.

The Myth Buster
Do you have to wait 30 minutes to swim after eating? Did Amelia Earhart live out the rest of her days on an island in the South Pacific? Is the Abominable Snowman real? In 2006, Orange County computer scientist Brian Dunning launched Skeptoid (where “no topic is sacred”) to answer these and other oft-asked questions. He offers succinct analyses and scholarly research that debunk conspiracy theories, consumer frauds, urban legends, and pseudoscience. » New episodes are released Tuesdays.

The Drunk Oprah
Elizabeth Laime of Totally Laime likens her interviewing style to Oprah’s—“if Oprah were a 30-year-old comedy writer living in Los Angeles. And Caucasian. Who’s usually drunk.” Her approach is disarming, and guests (usually fellow comedians) play along during the program she hosts with her husband, “Psychic Andy.” » New episodes are released weekly (days vary).

The Geek Lover
Trekkies and other hard-core sci-fi aficionados aren’t always thought of as the coolest kids on the playground. But TV personality Chris Hardwick has turned his dorkiness into an empire. His Nerdist is a cultural patchwork that covers music, art, books, and science; it’s also where you can listen to Hardwick’s podcast, which he describes as “basically just me talking about stuff and things with my two nerdy friends Jonah Ray and Matt Mira and usually someone more famous than all of us.” Those more distinguished guests have included Conan O’Brien, J.J. Abrams, and Zooey Deschanel. You can find programs hosted by dozens of others on the network as well, such as Sex Nerd Sandra, with sex educator Sandra Daugherty, and You Made It Weird, with comedian Pete Holmes. » New episodes are released weekly (days vary).

The Rage Rover
No one does the rant better than Adam Carolla, and on The Adam Carolla Show the North Hollywood native presents a digital version of his old radio broadcast. There’s a newscaster sidekick, an engineer, and franchise bits such as “This Week in Rage.” Pornographer Larry Flynt and radio show ethicist Dennis Prager have appeared among the guests, who function as sounding boards for Carolla’s invective, which is as tasty as a Double-Double with fries. » New episodes are released weekdays.

The Girl in The Boys Club
You may remember Aisha Tyler for her smackdown delivery when she hosted Talk Soup. The comic now sounds off with Girl on Guy, in which she rips and riffs with guests on “stuff guys love” (“comic books, small-batch spirits, blowing sh*t up”) and a subject she’s familiar with: video games. Tyler matches wits with the likes of writer Dave Eggers, musician Tom Morello, and fellow comedian Margaret Cho on topics ranging from “trolling in Hong Kong” to the “optimal method for punching feral teens.” Bonus: Her show features music by indie rock bands such as Bon Iver and Audioslave. » New episodes are released weekly (days vary).

The Banter Buddies
Anyone who can summon a chuckle from a well-timed movie quote might think they could replicate the success that actor Seth Romatelli and musician Jonathan Larroquette (son of actor John) have experienced with Uhh Yeah Dude. The fact is, filling up to 95 minutes with listenable conversation—no guests, no music, no commercials—is no small task. The likable duo keep pop culture and recent headlines, like the Burning Man lottery and Prozac babies, in their crosshairs as they swap anecdotes and observations. » New episodes are released weekly (days vary).

The Variety-Hour Host
Dana Gould spent 6 years writing for The Simpsons and 20 years making people laugh on Roseanne, Seinfeld, and Mad TV. His recently launched The Dana Gould Hour mixes written sketches and unscripted repartee with funny friends and is formatted like a radio play, complete with interstitial music and announcements. The program might include discussions running the gamut from Charles Manson to Larry King and shtick such as a dramatic reading from a book about sideshow freaks. » New episodes are released weekly (days vary).

The Inquisitor
Stand-up comic and misanthrope Marc Maron brings his acerbic humor and penchant for brutal self-evaluation to the long-form interview. The host of WTF with Marc Maron forgoes fluffy questions and sometimes clashes with guests. Earlier this year comedian Todd Glass came out on Maron’s show, fighting back tears as he explained how the recent suicides of gay teens led to his decision. Maron’s guests are often comedy veterans (Bill Maher, Jimmy Kimmel, Steven Wright, Janeane Garofalo), but he also trades quips with screenwriters, musicians, and whoever else piques his interest. Diablo Cody, Jon Hamm, and Anthony Bourdain have all dropped into Maron’s Highland Park garage, where the shows are recorded. » New episodes are released Sundays and Thursdays.

Written by Mike Carlson, Linda Immediato, and Chris Nichols

Kids’ Workshops

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 17:52:00 GMT

Photograph by Gandee Vasan/Getty Images

Entertaining children can be done the hard way (lots of freeway miles) or the easy way (firing up the laptop). Or you can take advantage of L.A.’s many cultural and scientific wonderlands that offer the ultimate distractions: workshops that will have youngsters slapping down paint, whipping up meals, or delving into the softer side of science. Most activities are free with paid admission (some institutions don’t even charge that). Get the most for your buck and afterward take in the exhibits, where your progeny can show off their newfound acumen.

Ship Shape
As if Noah’s Ark weren’t enough fun, the Skirball Cultural Center has opened its Family Art Studio to the public the last weekend of the month (until recently access has been limited to school holidays). Kids can repurpose fabric and feathers into finger puppets of paired animals or fashion scrolls out of burlap. Noah would be proud. » 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Brentwood, 310-440-4500.

Art Fare
At the Museum of Contemporary Art, the child in your life might view an installation and yell, “I can do that!” Now the junior critic gets to prove it. On March 7, after touring Collection: MOCA’s First Thirty Years, small fry can create a painting, sculpture, or whatever inspires them under the scrutiny of a guest artist. Call it curator’s revenge. » 250 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213-626-6222.

Classic Expression
Ongoing activities at the Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens are a sort of finishing school for the cookie-crunching set. When your kids have had their fill of Thomas Gainsborough’s Blue Boy, a course in flower arranging awaits. If the library sounds more appealing, they can learn the dying art of book binding or channel Emily Dickinson by writing a poem. » 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino, 626-405-2100.

Weird Science
Name a child who doesn’t like playing with goo. So it’s practically guaranteed yours will plunge into lessons on how to concoct the slimy stuff at the California Science Center. This month CSC participates in “NanoDays,” a nationwide festival of programs on the science of things really small. Past projects have included making liquid crystal sensors, which only the instructors and their diminutive apprentices seem to know how to use. » 700 Exposition Park Dr., South L.A., 323-724-3623.

Water Babies
The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium helps adventurers ages two to four become mini Cousteaus. Weekly classes might involve going to the nearby shore, where students identify seashells and other marine life. They can then apply their findings to crafts assignments, such as designing name tags with nautical themes. All this seafaring means that future visits to the aquarium should be smooth sailing. » 3720 Stephen M. White Dr., San Pedro, 310-548-7562.

Good and Plenty
The workshops at Kidspace are like chocolate chips in a brownie: indulgence inside an indulgence. The place already hums with daily activities like painting and gardening, but at some point your tykes might prefer specialized instruction in such esoteric pursuits as transforming stones into “bug” rocks. This month they can build an erupting volcano, much like Dr. Evil’s. No hot magma involved. » 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena, 626-449-9144.

Tiny Toques
The folks at Tía Chucha’s Centro Cultural must not enjoy sleeping. In addition to leading cooking lessons that explore cuisines from around Latin America, they offer art courses in clay, glass, and silk screen. Low-income families are given first consideration. » 13197A Gladstone Ave., Sylmar, 818-939-3433.

Best Karaoke

By Linda Immediato — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 01:26:00 GMT

Photograph courtesy flickr/tetradtx

In a city teeming with aspiring entertainers, you can’t swing a mic without hitting a karaoke joint. While Koreatown bars have been hubs since the karaoke machine debuted in Japan in 1971, now a steady circuit runs across L.A. County. You can seek out the most public of humiliation for free or pay for a private space (with butler service). Many places have a two-drink minimum, which might be just the right dose of courage needed to face a room full of strangers.

The X Factor
Stage presence is key at Boardwalk 11, where an elevated platform dominates the supper club’s main dining room—and when it’s show time, you’re literally in the spotlight. The song list features more than 50,000 tunes, including some newer favorites from Arcade Fire and Adele, but classic rock rules. If you can nail Ann Wilson’s shrieking in “Crazy on You,” you’ll fit right in; choose to strain your way through REO Speedwagon, and you’ll have to ham it up to win over the crowd. » Sun.-Mon., starting at 9 p.m.; Tue. and Thu., at 6 p.m.; Wed. and Fri.-Sat., at 8 p.m. 10433 National Blvd., Palms, 310-837-5245.

Girls’ Night Out
Sundays are fairly quiet, but on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights there are more inebriated coeds at the Brass Monkey than in a Girls Gone Wild video. Expect better-than-average people watching and the possibility that you’ll actually sound awesome to the teetering dancers. Play something anthemic from Tom Petty or Journey, and you’ll be a hit. » Mon.-Fri., starting at 4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., at 8 p.m. 659 S. Mariposa Ave., Koreatown, 213-381-7047.

Newbie Nirvana
It’s so divey, you may feel the need to hold your breath at the Smog Cutter. Don’t. The shy or uninitiated find it less intimidating to try out their lungs here. There is no discernible stage: Singers are relegated to a darkened spot facing the backs of bar patrons, who glance over only occasionally. Song choices are mainly classic rock; one list had more Neil Diamond (43 tunes!) than Madonna (just 3). Tip the KJ (karaoke DJ) and you might move up on the wait list. » Nightly, starting at 9 p.m. 864 N. Virgil Ave., Los Feliz, 323-660-4626.

Lost In Translation
With its Saturday Night Fever-meets-Blade Runner vibe, Palmtree L.A. offers a near-cinematic experience. Rent one of 20 plush private rooms ($20-$80 per hour), outfitted with video projectors and high-tech sound equipment. If you don’t want the pressure of rounding up unwilling friends, head to Karaoke Bleu for the same futuristic feel, a built-in crowd of bar patrons, and a large selection of Japanese and Korean numbers. Purchase a $6 drink for the chance to sing (if part of a group of three or less). » Palmtree L.A.: Nightly, starting at 5 p.m. 3240 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 401, Korea-town, 213-381-3388. Karaoke Bleu: Nightly, starting at 8 p.m. 2064 Sawtelle Blvd., West L.A., 310-477-4794.

Be the Band
Nothing makes you feel more like a rock star than sliding up next to the guitarist at a live-band karaoke event. The guys in O FeeL YA will cover for your pitch or timing problems (you read off a lyric sheet instead of getting cues from a monitor). Their set list is Top 40, so plan on audience participation. The group bounces around from Arcadia to Santa Monica and every town and hood in between. » Go to meetup.com/Live-Band-Karaoke for schedule.

ALSO: Read The New Rules of Singing in Public, Linda Immediato's guide to the Dos and Don'ts of Karaoke

Best Hotel Gift Shops

By Kari Mozena — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 23:18:00 GMT

The usual setup, geared to the forgetful guest, is a closet with a few sundries such as toothpaste and razors—along with a generic item or two that could travel home as a souvenir. But a handful of L.A. hotels have elevated their gift shops to store-size spaces offering apparel, jewelry, and accessories that exemplify the city’s highest style. Check into these locations for a shopping trip as memorable as a deluxe suite stay.

Sex Appeal
The gift emporium at the SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills (310-247-0400) is an open affair with arty wares displayed under glass—everything from designer Piero Fornasetti tables and chairs to Kiki de Montparnasse sleep masks that indicate whether you’d like to do that or something naughtier. You’ll also find animal skin lighters (stingray, shark, snake), D.L. & Co. plates emblazoned with the Seven Deadly Sins, and life-size bicycles in gold. The shelves hold Assouline coffee-table books and nonstick tape “for the restraining arts,” to be practiced before calling it a night.

Coastal Airs
The shops at the Terranea Resort (310-265-2800) aren’t just for tourists—Palos Verdes locals come here for high-end gifts. Pointe Discovery has outdoorsy accessories such as backpacks with pictures of endangered species, hiking gear, and James Perse sportswear. The Marea boutique spreads across three rooms filled with jewelry, DVF leather flip-flops, swimsuits for all ages, and Alice+Olivia dresses. The Spa at Terranea shop carries a host of aromatherapy lotions and perfume solids, Michael Star hats, Zen poetry books, and T-shirts that wish you namaste.

Hollywood Swinger
There’s an old-world glam to the W Hotels-The Store at the W Hollywood (323-798-1300), where you’ll discover packs of cigarettes in a fishbowl next to the guppy lighters and a retro Moshi Moshi telephone receiver that plugs into a cell phone (should you be worried about radiation). Racks of Goorin Bros. fedoras and a beaded clutch from Deepa Gurnani beckon to hipsters who venture off the Sunset Strip.

Anchors Away
Winston Churchill slept here. The Queen Mary (877-342-0738), berthed in Long Beach, houses several shops in which you can find everything from memorabilia of the Great War to tchotchkes that would look appropriate in an Iowa diner. The Queen Mary Store, in the former Allied war room, sells photos of celebrities who sailed on the luxury liner and other relics from the years following its 1936 maiden voyage. For vintage postcards, framed prints, CDs of tunes from the 1930s and ’40s, and fancy model ship kits, head to Past Times Collectibles. At the Queen Mary Couture shop, it’s hard not to ogle the art deco woodwork while trying on rhinestone-studded T-shirts and fun cocktail rings. Finally, scope out the shot glasses and teddy bears dressed as bellhops in the Stacks Aboard the Queen Mary store.

Lush Life
Butter-soft microfiber totes in shades from camel to pewter beg to be caressed at the richly outfitted gift shop at the Montage Beverly Hills (310-860-7800). The staff helps customers sort through the multitude of costume and vintage jewelry behind glass along one wall. Handmade Erica DiPaolo cards include a tongue-in-cheek study of a rhino, a lion, and a gazelle playing checkers. Pop up to the spacious spa shop on the third floor for shiny hair ties and SpaRitual vegan nail polishes.

Uptown Downtown
Inside the JW Marriott at L.A. Live (213-765-8600), local talent is on hand at the Blvd Shop. You’ll find John Kelly chocolates from the Hollywood sweets maker and bags by L.A. designer Dahli Coles. Oliver Peoples sunglasses, glossy coffee-table tomes on Hollywood icons, and Tumi luggage are also available in the lobby shop. The second-floor spa stocks a healthy selection of Toms shoes and Oribe hair products.

Photograph by Ethan Pines

Best Trail Rides

By Ann Herold — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 07:00:00 GMT

In L.A. you can be toiling in a downtown office building one minute and galloping along an oak-shaded canyon a half hour later. No other metropolis has as much equestrian activity. While most rental stables cater to neophytes—the pace slower than the 405 at rush hour—a handful enable intermediate and advanced riders to get out and run. Here are our favorite guided adventures.

Sea to See
Laura Toston and her crew at Malibu Riders (818-510-2245) take groups to three locations: the Big Sky setting of Paramount Ranch, the Tolkienesque woods of Malibu Creek State Park, and the panoramic hills of Zuma Canyon. Toston’s background is endurance riding, and her horses are alert and fit. The Zuma excursion, at $75 an hour, is particularly energizing. The trail to the top winds through tall yuccas and dense chaparral that is awash in wildflowers from late winter to early summer. Around every other bend is a heart-stopping coastline vista. Experienced riders move at a brisk trot or an easy lope, depending on the degree of ascent, but you’ll be tempted to slow down just to devour the scenery. The Malibu Creek site is otherworldly at twilight, when everything acquires a golden glow. At $50 an hour, it’s one of the most reasonable escapes in town.

Run for the Hills
Griffith Park is infamous for its cattle-call trail rides and horses that can’t wait to get back to the barn. Not so with Hooper Trail Horses (310-633-0383), based out of the private Silver Spur Stables (1900 Riverside Dr., Glendale). David Hooper has a bachelor’s in equine studies, and his outings are sessions in trail expertise. He takes one rider at a time—on a fine-moving palomino named Trigger—and only after you’ve proved to be at least an advanced beginner. He’ll escort clients with intermediate to advanced skills to every corner of Griffith Park, from the observatory to Mount Hollywood. For those with just an hour or so to spare, there’s the Oak Canyon route ($95). Two- to four-hour rambles through the park ($125 to $150) might also meander to the Bronson Caves or along the Bill Eckert Trail to the old zoo. The better rider you are, the faster you’ll go. Try not to grin as you pass those shuffling nose-to-tail groups on your way back to the stables.

Mane Attraction
There are few places in the country, let alone the county, as horse crazy as the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Entire neighborhoods boast a steed (or two or three) in the backyards, and you’ll see a fair share of these enclaves on an excursion with Wagon Wheel ranch (4057 Via Opata, Palos Verdes Estates, 310-567-3582). The affection and respect PV native Pat Murnane has for his horses is readily apparent. The majority of his business is fun rides (think children’s birthday parties), and the Terranea Resort sends its guests here (one group from Mongolia was unfazed by a day of heavy rain). Experienced riders get to range farther afield on the 35 miles of peninsula trails. During a weekday two-hour private ride (ask for the smooth-gaited pinto named Twister), guide Kathleen Yesnick points out the fauna (hawks galore) and flora (the South Coast Botanic Garden) as you canter past grand homesteads. There’s no “ranch” per se; patrons meet at a large trailer parked next to the Palos Verdes Stables for the $50-an-hour interludes. And no, you’re not in Wonderland—those are Murnane’s pet rabbits hopping around the grounds.

History Lesson
The philosopher-cowboy would have loved what’s happening at Will Rogers Trail Rides (310-662-3707), based at his Pacific Palisades estate (1501 Will Rogers State Park Rd.). Guide Janice Merrihew shares anecdotes from the early-20th-century pundit’s life, which revolved in great measure around horses. The pace is always gentle; the folks showing up for the $55 hourly weekend trips, which accept last-minute drop-ins, are likely rank beginners. Appointments are required for weekday sorties, and the final ride at 5 is especially desirable. The loop goes to Inspiration Point, where on a clear day you can see past downtown’s high-rises all the way to PV, and you’ll get a backdoor look at Steven Spielberg’s incredible domestic domain.

Photograph by Jen Rosenstein

Best Home Owner Apps

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 07:00:00 GMT

HomeKeeper provides a list of maintenance jobs that are often forgotten, such as resealing bathroom countertops and cleaning the air-conditioning filter. Personalize a to-do list with dates and shopping needs.

Houzz Interior Design Ideas sorts experts by region so that you can focus on L.A.-based contractors, home-media specialists, and others. Idea books offer advice on choosing colors and dressing windows, and the more than 130,000 photos can be indexed by room and style.

My Measures & Dimensions allows users to take a picture of a space and record measurements on the photo. Once in the store, pull out your phone to see whether that vintage coffee table will fit in front of the couch.

Landscaper’s Companion helps the gardener configure the yard with photos and descriptions of trees, ground covers, flowers, and veggies. Avert planting errors by checking the entry on USDA hardiness zones, which factor in sun and water requirements.

Photograph by Denise Philibert

Celebrity Picks

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 07:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Goin

Chef-Owner
A.O.C., Lucques, Tavern

You’re married to David Lentz from the Hungry Cat. Where do two top chefs and the parents of three sneak off to?
The Grill in Beverly Hills is a favorite for lunch. I order the crab Louie, and the server—one of those cool old-school types—always asks knowingly, “Sauce on the side, ma’am?” I say, “Oh no, dress it heavy, and bring more on the side!” Sometimes if we are feeling extra wacky or are celebrating something, we even do the martini lunch, which requires a huge nap after.

Where do you indulge your sweet tooth?
Mashti Malone’s on La Brea is right down the street from our house, which is not necessarily a good thing. They are known for amazing exotic ice cream flavors like saffron and rosewater, but I can never get beyond their insane chocolate peanut butter—and I’m not even a chocolate peanut butter person.

Where do you take the little ones?
OK, here’s a scary story: My kids love Silver Lake’s Tacos Delta, but the first time I took them there my son Jack kept disappearing under the table. I finally realized he was picking the gum off the underside and eating it! Shoot me now…

Sasha Alexander
Actor
Rizzoli & Isles

Your character on the detective show is always remarkably well dressed. Where do you find that elegance here?
Melrose Place. Chloé, Oscar de la Renta—I love the whole street.

Do you have a treasured boutique?
Boutique shopping is the best because the good ones do the decision making for you. My favorites are Curve on Robertson, Heist on Abbot Kinney, and Madison.

Where do you go for one-of-a-kind gifts?
Maison Midi on La Brea and Lost and Found in Hollywood.

You married into an Italian family. Is there a store here for all things Italian?
The most authentic Italian eats are imported at Guidi Marcello in Santa Monica. I do my grocery shopping there, and it has everything you would find in an Italian market. Also Damiani on Rodeo, owned by our dear friend Silvia Damiani, has the finest Italian jewelry.

You grew up in L.A. and attended USC. Do you have a sentimental shopping destination?
ValSurf. I grew up at the beach, so it still reminds me of taking the beach bus for 25 cents from my house with my friends. They have the sexiest bikinis!

Bob Harper
Trainer
Biggest Looser

What L.A. gym workout gets a perfect 10?
Well, not to be narcissistic, but I would have to give my Spinning class at Crunch that score. I have been teaching it for more than 12 years, and while Biggest Loser keeps me busy, I try to get there as many Saturdays as I can. I’m also a big fan of Barry’s Bootcamp when I just wanna run.

What about food?
I adore M Café on Melrose, although I hate the parking. The Earth Bar inside Equinox in West Hollywood has the best smoothies and healthy snacks.

It’s not cheap to eat healthfully.
I am a big fan of Trader Joe’s because I can get most everything I need there. For supplements, it’s Capital Drugs in West Hollywood—there’s always a sale, and the people are extremely helpful.

Isn’t part of effecting change in the mind?
In a world that no longer has Oprah on TV five days a week—excuse me while I wipe the tear rolling down my face—I go old school with Eckhart Tolle, Marianne Williamson, and Gary Zukau. When it comes to books, my all-time favorite is The China Study by Dr. T. Colin Campbell, about the relationship between diet and disease.

Joel McHale
Actor
Community

Which are Your sons Eddie and Isaac’s favorite playtime spots?
Travel Town at Griffith Park and the Train Shack in Burbank. Do you get the sense they like trains?

Describe a great day or night out with your wife.
We would start out with a drink at Harvard & Stone. Dinner would either be at Girasole, Mozza, or Cut, followed by a visit to the Varnish bar downtown. Or we might stop at the Oaks Gourmet market to pick up some ice cream and finish off the night at home watching Community.

Where do you go for solo time?
Solo time is in my car, but if I’m alone and want to be in a social atmosphere, I would choose LaMill in Silver Lake or Intelligentsia in Pasadena.

You played college football. Does L.A. need a team?
I pretty much love all sports—the NBA, college basketball, football, all of it. I’m a diehard Seahawks fan, since I’m from Seattle. I don’t even want to think about what would happen if L.A. got a team, because I would be so torn about whom to root for.

Martyn Lawrence-Bullard
Interior Designer
Million Dollar Decorators

Money’s no object for your clients on the show. Where can the rest of us get the most bang for our buck?
Restoration Hardware’s accessories, lighting, and hardware are so good, it sometimes feels like it’s going to put us interior designers out of business! Crate & Barrel has beautiful tableware and amazing basics. Pottery Barn, CB2, and West Elm also have great selections.

How about the global look?
Berbere World Imports is filled with Indian carvings, Turkish rugs, Buddhas from Bali, and oil jars from Greece. Mosaik carries Moroccan lamps, decorative objects, and fabric. Maison Midi sells tajines, colorful tea glasses, pillows, and tablecloths.

What are your guilty pleasures?
Art, especially black-and-white portrait photography. I spend hours at Fahey/Klein Gallery. Another favorite Peter Fetterman.

Which books inspire you?
I’m a book-collecting maniac and support Book Soup and Hennessey + Ingalls. Ellen Pompeo and I referred to John Saladino’s Villa when working on her Italianate house. I love Renzo Mongiardino’s Roomscapes and his almost fantasy interiors.