I haven’t really been updating as much as I would like lately (once a week). Due to unforseen circumstances, I am currently on a business trip that has lasted a bit longer than I had anticipated. I expect to return to my regular posts next week. But, only the web lord knows how much more is on my plate.
I’m working on building the new LA Web site. Quite an honor, but definitely daunting.
Live and Die in LA: 100 things to see and do before you die…
From tiny galleries to world premieres, many interesting art exhibits have a presence in LA. Los Angeles art galleries are one example of venues that are constantly pushing the borders of artistic expression. Galleries range from the variety of galleries on Sixth Street in San Pedro to the funky art boutiques along Chung King Road in Chinatown. The Downtown Arts District is a haven for working artists to live and create their masterpieces. The North Hollywood, or NoHo, district is another great area with galleries clustered along Magnolia and Lankershim Boulevards. And the First Thursday gallery walks that start near the pier in San Pedro, boast a truly bohemian variety of arts.
91. See a Movie in the Movie Capital
Long known as the movie capital of the world, Los Angeles will soon unveil two additions designed to significantly enhance the experience for its movie-going audience. Landmark Theaters, a chain known for airing first-run, independent films, will open a 12-screen facility at the Westside Pavilion in June 2007, becoming the largest indie-focused theater in LA. The new theater, which will air both independent and major feature films, will offer reserved seating and a wine bar - expecting to attract a hip, upscale crowd. Across town at Universal CityWalk, AMC cinemas have undergone a complete renovation and are now one of the city’s most state-of-the art theater facilities. The theater now features ergonomically-designed, stadium-style “rocker” seats, spacious leg room and wider cup-holder armrests for maximum elbow room. The refurbished cinemas also include larger, curved, wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling movie screens, and a sophisticated digital surround-sound system.
www.landmarktheatres.com
www.citywalkhollywood.com/cinemas
92. Take a walk down memory lane
The people may not be the seem, the cars are definitely different, the businesses no longer exist, but the historic buildings stand tall over one of LA’s most recognizable streets, Broadway.
With one of the largest historic theater districts in the country, Downtown LA’s Broadway will be one of the many jewels polished during the regions expensive and expansive renovation.
Look for these theaters:
United Artists Theater
Orpheum Theater - www.laorpheum.com
Globe Theater
Rialto Theater
Tower Theater - www.towertheaterla.com
State Theater
Palace Theater - www.losangelestheatre.com/downtownpalace.html
Los Angeles Theater - www.losangelestheatre.com
Arcade Theater
Cameo Theater
Roxie Theater
Million Dollar Theater
93. Hike and Birdwatch in the Ballona Wetlands
Located just south of Marina del Rey, the Ballona Wetlands is the last coastal wetlands ecosystem remaining in Los Angeles and one of the city’s largest open areas of nature. The Ballona Wetlands is an important stop for birds migrating on the Pacific Migratory Flyway. More than 1,100 varieties of plants and animals can be found in the Ballona Wetlands.
The Ballona Wetlands Land Trust is implementing a land acquisition campaign to raise money for the purchase of the remaining Ballona Wetlands ecosystem; to preserve it as a wildlife refuge and public park. The Land Trust has already helped in preserving 600 acres, which is now state-owned, and they will begin restoration in early 2007; maintaining the natural habitat, creating hiking and biking trails, installing viewing platforms, and creating a recreational area.
94. Spike a volleyball at the beach, or leave it to the pros
The annual AVP (Association of Volleyball Professionals) tournament at Manhattan Beach is reason enough to visit one of LA’s iconic beaches - 8/9/07 - 8/12/07.
However, if you need another reason. Try one of the various watering holes or restaurants that locals adore and visitors always return to.
For the younger crowd, you can’t stop into town and not hit up Sharkeez. Their drink specials and Mexican grill are well above par.
