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Best of 2009: Six LA Hotspots

Tracy Hepler — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 07:17:24 +0000

Just because you don’t get a winter vacation like you used to during your school days doesn’t mean it can’t be a time to learn something new. L.A. has a plethora of places to unleash you inner creativity. Here are a few that have made our list:

Apliiq: Apliiq is based on the French word for apply and that is exactly what happens here. At Apliiq you can sew unique and colorful fabrics to basic apparel and “make it flash.” Operating in downtown L.A., Apliiq is a hot spot on the downtown art walk and encourages people to bring in their clothes and give them a new lease on life. Apliiq also sells American Apparel items if you don’t want to BYOT-but why wouldn’t you? You can do your own applique at 548 s. Spring street shop 114 Los Angeles, 90013 on 6th street between Spring and Main, 323-300-6492, web: http://www.apliiq.com/.…

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Paint Lab: A walk in art studio space “where you can experience, express and explore your own creativity through the medium of paint.” They provide the paints, brushes and easels. You provide the creativity and canvas. Come in for a workshop or just use the lab space on your own. They also offer wine and cheese painting nights. All day usage starts at $20. Get your Van Gough on at 2912 Main Street in Santa Monica, 310-450-9200, web: www.paintlab.net.

Cuisine by Kat: Has watching the Food Network inspired your own inner foodie? Make the move from TV to kitchen with cooking lessons from Kat. Kat Odell is the food editor of Eater LA and a staunch supporter of seasonal food and local farmer’s markets. Each class is based on what is fresh at the Santa Monica market that week and always includes bottomless glasses of wines. Visit www.cuisinebykat.com for more information and to sign up for the next class. Fee is $30 and includes dinner and wine.

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Hands-On 3rd: This all-in-one DIY center has something for everyone with sewing, green living tips, upholstery, ceramics, botanicals and more. You can sign up for any of its “real skills” workshops and DIY to your heart’s desire. If you’re looking to host a party, there’s an event space too. Find your inner crafter and more at 8377 W. 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 655-0515 web: http://www.handson3rd.com/

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Echo Ceramics: There is something about working your hands on a wheel that just seems soothing (and anyone who grew up watching Ghost…). If you’ve ever wanted to make the magic happen on your own pottery wheel, why not do it this summer? Echo Ceramics offers flexile eight week classes to make you a working professional by day and a ceramics junkie by night. Echo Ceramics 2856 S. Robertson Blvd., Los Angeles 90034 310-815-1525 www.echoceramics.com

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Echo Park Film Center: Did you move to L.A. to make it in the business but still haven’t made your own film? Get hands-on training at the Echo Park Film Center. It offers classes on editing, documentary film techniques, Final Cut Pro and more. Classes are for 20 + and fill up quickly. Visit the center at 1200 N. Alvarado Street (@ Sunset Blvd) Los Angeles, CA 90026, Map, 213-484-8846 Web: http://www.echoparkfilmcenter.org/

Did we miss your favorite DIY/Craft Center? Tell us what we missed by commenting below.

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Green Home Remodel: What’s So Green About it Anyway?

Candice Dickens-Russell — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 06:00:31 +0000

Candice is writing a green home remodel series for YDT as she fixes up her first home. Read part three of her quest: “Ditching the Dumpster.”

What does green really mean when it comes to home design and décor? Is it only in the ways things are made or also what they’re made of? Is the table made of sustainable bamboo greener than the bookshelf rescued from the landfill and restored with eco-friendly wood stain? What about the stuff you didn’t buy? Can a lack of clutter make a room greener?

My husband, Scott, and I ask ourselves these questions all the time as we strive to keep our green promises and create eco-friendly home décor. We’ve decided that for us, an item is green as long as we’ve made a commitment to protecting the environment in choosing it. It’s all about consciousness. If each piece is chosen with the environment in mind then, in the end, we will have a green room.

Our sustainably-designed, harvested and manufactured items are green because of their natural materials and companies’ commitment to environmental protection. Our locally-crafted items purchased for their proximity are green because we save shipping emissions. Things we’ve refurbished or reused are also green because we’ve kept them out of the landfill.

That said, here is a first look at our green home interior starting with the living room. Enjoy!

100% bamboo window shades.
Solid wood furniture purchased at an estate sale.
Energy Star florescent lamps from Southern California Edison’s lamp exchange.
Energy Star rated LG TV.
VOC-free Harmony brand primer & paint base from Sherwin Williams.
Linoleum tile–a natural product made from linseed oil.
100% jute rug.
Ikea coffee table & TV stand made in part with FSC certified hardwoods & Ikea’s strict requirements for wood suppliers

Eco-design questions for Candice? Leave them in the comments.

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USELESS.org: Use Less, Give More

Connie Wu — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 13:25:14 +0000

In a world of disposable everything, USELESS.org has a unique mission: start using less, and start giving more.

Created by Mark Simmons, a former consultant for Al Gore’s Alliance for Climate Protection, and Kathy Fletcher, who has extensive experience in non-profits and human rights advocacy, USELESS aims to produce items that leave as little impact on the environment as possible – from the 100% post-consumer packaging to manufacturing all of the items in the U.S.

In addition, 10% of the profits from the purchase of USELESS products go to charities like Wherever the Need, a non-profit that helps provide water supply to underserved countries worldwide.

Items available for purchase include organic tees, the BPA-free USELESS Water Bottle ($15), which encourages people to use less disposable water bottles, and the USELESS Utility Tote ($40), made of recycled advertising billboards.

One of the most provocative products is a handmade recycled stainless steel “USELESS” Logo Stencil ($40) - so you can brand your own items as “USELESS”. In addition, you can also purchase Earth – made of 100% nothing ($25) - 100% of the amount goes to water and sanitation projects.

You can learn more about USELESS by visiting their website.

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USELESS.org: Use Less, Give More

Connie Wu — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 11:04:20 +0000

In a world of disposable everything, USELESS.org has a unique mission: start using less, and start giving more.

In addition, 10% of the profits from the purchase of USELESS products go to charities like Wherever the Need, a non-profit that helps provide water supply to underserved countries worldwide.

You can learn more about USELESS by visiting their website.

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Truth Movement

Jaclyn Mullen — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 19:12:34 +0000

Talking Trash to support local schools

On Thursday June 25th, join Darren Moore of Alter Eco on Planet Green as he talks trash for teaching at Rush Street Bar in Culver City from 6 – 9 p.m. Support this local school program (which is sadly close to shutting its doors) that provides repurposed materials for children to utilize in the arts and sciences. There will be half price refreshments and appetizers. Your gracious donations will also be accepted at the door. To learn more about Trash for Teaching, check out www.trashforteaching.com Location: Rush Street Bar, 9546 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232, RSVP: kathy@trashforteaching.org Phone: (323) 262-3400

Dwell on Design Conference Kick Off

Friday June 26th is opening date for Dwell on Design, the West Coast’s largest modern design event featuring prefab homes, energy and solar info and other design technology. This year will commemorate the fourth year of the conference/exhibition so be sure to head on down to the LA Convention Center through Sunday June 28th. Special events include Restaurant Design Awards and film screenings.

Location: LA Convention Center SOUTH HALL, 1201 S. Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015, Tel (213) 741-1151, web: http://www.dwellondesign.com/

Eco-fest, Education and Entertainment Combined

On Saturday June 27th, pack up the family for some eco fun and head on down to Windward Ave for the Venice Eco Fest. There will be live music, eco displays and exhibits, plus great views of the Pacific Ocean (YDT will have a booth there too). Festivities start at 10 a.m. and will honor the earth, educate about environmental issues as well as promote the benefits of organic and healthy foods. At 6 p.m. this free festival will come to a close.

Location: Venice Beach at Windward Ave, Tel (888) 295-8372, web: www.earthdayla.org/veniceecofest/contact.html, email: info@earthdayla.org

Truth Movement- Alternative Energy Concert Packed with Star Power

Join Corey Feldman (Lost Boys, “The two Coreys”) and his band Truth Movement as they launch their “off the grid tour” at Universal City Walk Celebrity Band Saturdays event. Truth Movement plans to have an alternative energy source power the stage and lights for the entire show. Feldman, a vegetarian, supports causes such as Global Green, Green Peace, Farm Sanctuary and the Humane Society just to name a few. This free event will surely be fun and leave you eco-rocking and rolling all night long.

Location: Universal Citywalk, 100 Universal City Place, Universal City, CA 91608, web: Info here

Green Girls Anniversary Party

Saturday is action-packed with all kinds of events and for all Angeleno night owls out there, you can check out the Green Girls Anniversary party at Ecco Ultra Lounge from 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. The Green Girls site brings together people that are all shades of green and this celebratory event will feature treats from food and drink to celebrity DJ Rob Patterson (Korn). You must confirm your attendance online (RSVP info). The party also supports a great cause: a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma society. Location: Ecco Ultra Lounge, 1640 North Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, web: http://www.thegreengirls.tv/, To purchase tickets and to RSVP check out http://www.thegreengirls.tv/bash.asp.

Sunday Sample Sale, Doie Designs

Take this Sunday to sit back and relax in Santa Monica at the Doie and Bogini informal trunk show. Everything is marked down so you can shop stress free from 3-6 p.m. To add to that, Doie garments are designed with the environment in mind and are made from bamboo, organic cotton and 100% silk. Even if you aren’t in the mood (or market) for new clothes this summer stop by to socialize over some wine and cheese. Location: 204 Washington Ave, Apt 308, Santa Monica, CA, 90403, Tel (310) 899-1915, web: www.doiedesigns.com

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Beach Basics Clean Up

Tracy Hepler — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 11:04:15 +0000

Long ago the pristine California coastline lured thousands of settlers to our shores. Needless to say that trend has yet to change. What has changed is the quality of our ocean and beaches — and for this, we have no one to blame but ourselves. Littering at the beach isn’t the only cause of the problem. Through our vast and networked storm drain systems, trash that is discarded in Pasadena can make its way all the way to the beaches in Santa Monica. In fact the city of Santa Monica has outlawed the use of Styrofoam (and other non-recyclable plastics) but the beaches are still filled with Styrofoam waste that has been broken down into hundreds of tiny pieces...

Why Should You Care?

Pollution levels are so bad that at the Santa Monica Municipal Pier the beach gets an F grade from Heal the Bay’s Beach Report Card. This beach is not only enjoyed by our citizens but by thousands of tourists who visit the beach daily. We owe it to ourselves to improve the quality of our beaches so that we can all enjoy them the way they were meant to be enjoyed.

How Can You Make a Difference?

Keep littering under control. If you live in parts of the city that allow Styrofoam, refuse to take it. Ask the store if they will consider new (biodegradable) to go plates or BYOTG (Bring Your Own To-Go Ware) from home. Write your local council representative and ask them to work
towards banning these non-recyclable plastics too.

If you see Styrofoam, plastics or other trash on the street try to pick it up and throw it away. Just use caution – i.e. don’t pick up rusty metals, needles or other hazardous objects.

Most importantly, get involved and give back. Join in the monthly rotating clean ups happening with Heal the Bay on the third Saturdays of each month. Perks for you include sunshine, fresh air, mild exercise and endorphins from doing good work and giving back to the community.

There is an Earth Day clean up happening this Saturday at the Santa Monica Pier. As noted by its current report card grade, the Pier really needs our help and Heal the Bay needs as many volunteers as they can get. If you’re interested in attending, just show up (MAP). The clean up starts at 10 a.m.

Continue the Conversation on the *NEW* Forum:

Why Are There No Recycling Bins on L.A. Beaches?

How Can We Help Cut Down the Trash that Gets to the Beach?

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Locally Grown Passover

Tracy Hepler — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 13:04:30 +0000

Depression-Era Prices Are Back at The Edison

At a bar and lounge modeled after the last recession era, the Edison Downtown is keeping its prices low…1920s low. Come in on “Soup Kitchen” Fridays for 35-cent cocktails, grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup. You’ll definitely feel satisfied with the meal and you’ll also be helping out as a portion of the profits from that night go toward the Midnight Mission, a non-profit dedicated to helping the Los Angeles homeless population.

Location: 108 W 2nd St. Los Angeles, CA 90012 Date/Time: Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m. Web: http://www.edisondowntown.com/

Locally Grown Passover Seder

The amazing chefs over at Angeli Caffé are throwing their annual Passover Meal. Come celebrate the holiday with delicious food (Leek Croquettes, Chicken Soup with Matzo Balls and Dumplings, Pollo Arrosto and more.). Visit our events calendar to view the complete menu. The meal is tonight and only serves 62 people so RSVP NOW! The cost for this locally grown, delicious, multi-course meal is $40 per person. Don’t forget to find to Afikomen!
Location: Angeli Caffé, 274 Melrose Ave., L.A. Date/Time: Date/Time: Thursday, April 9, 2009 7 p.m. RSVP: 323-936-9086

Plastics: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

LEED designer Nancy Astrid of Astrid Design Studio will teach a class on the various issues with plastics: chemical ingredients (and which ones get in your body), recycling, and of course how to reduce your overall plastic use. She’ll also be sharing products to use in place of plastic. If you want to see a major reason why plastics are so problematic to our environment, please view this short video documentary about a journey to the Pacific Gyre (a gigantic mass of minuscule plastic pieces in the ocean that is larger than twice the size of the continental United States).

Location: Green Beacon Foundation, Elysian Heights. Complete address provided upon RSVP. Date/Time: Saturday, April 11 from 2 to 4 p.m. RSVP: Julie Solomon at 323.717.9636 Admission $10.

“Ich bin ein Berliner” Art of Two Germanys / Cold War Cultures

Time is running out to see BCAM’s art exhibit dedicated to the two Germany’s of the Cold War. The exhibit focuses on the time in German history from World War II into the Cold War when Berlin was divided between East and West. When the wall came up, many freedoms (including artistic) freedoms were suppressed in the
East, while they continued on in the West. Artists on display include Hans Haacke, Heinz Mack, Sigmar Polke, Dieter Roth and others.

Location: Broad Contemporary Art Museum – BCAM 5905 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036 Date/Time: Exhibit ends on April 19, times vary by day (closed Wednesdays). Web: http://www.lacma.org/art/ExhibColdWar.aspx Phone: 323-857-6000

Celebrate Easter Sustainably at the Border Grill in Santa Monica

Buffets can often be wasteful and on Easter they seem to be the only game in town for eating out. There is a sustainable solution: Easter Brunch at the Border Grill. The chefs won’t be doing the all you can eat buffet style meals that often leave you feeling sick once you leave. They’ll be serving up delicious Mexican specialties including Bahia Shrimp Cocktails, Spiced French Toast, Mexican Coffee Profiterole and since they know that no brunch is complete with out a cocktail, they’re offering a Tangerine Mint Sparkling Margarita. Green up your Easter celebration even further by checking out this eco-friendly Easter egg guide.

Location: 1445 4th St. Santa Monica, CA 90401 Date/Time: Sunday, April 12, 2009 Web: http://www.marysueandsusan.com/news/Mar08/news032008_2.htm Phone: 310.451.1655

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Los Angeles Beer Festival

Tracy Hepler — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 17:52:42 +0000

A Night of Pairing with Tequila…

Wine pairing is so 2008…2009 is all about spirit pairing, specifically tequila. If a delicious four-course meal from the chefs over at sustainably minded Border Grill sounds too good to be true, add specialty made Corzo tequila cocktails to each dish. The results: Ono Ginger Napoleon paired with a Ginger Collins, Duck Confit “Manchamanteles” Tamales served with a Red Velvet Martini, Sofrito Marinated Rack of Lamb paired with a Basil Lime Mojito and decadent Dulce de Leche Churros served with an Organic (tequila based) Espresso. If your mouth is watering right about now, call the Border Grill to get a reservation for tonight at 7:30 p.m. The best part is the price, reasonable at $45 per person including all entrees, drinks and desserts. ¡Salud!

Location: Border Grill, 1445 4th St. Santa Monica, CA 90401 Date/Time: Thursday, April 2, 2009 – 7:30 p.m. RSVP: 310.451.1655 Web: www.bordergrill.com

Greenovate your Spring Cleaning

Spring is officially here and that usually means that it is time to get some elbow grease flowing and get some spring-cleaning action going. This year though why not go a little further. Rather than just clean, take the extra step and go green. If you’re at a loss where to start, can I recommend attending the Greenovation Tour over at the Green Beacon in Elysian Heights. Julie Solomon of the Green Beacon will take you on a “hands on tour” and show you how easy and affordable it can be to go green. She’ll share practical tips and give you access to products, services and processes that will help you save some green (your money) while going green (improving your carbon foot print). It’s a win win for all involved. To attend the tour you must RSVP.

Location: Elysian Heights, specific address provided upon RSVP. Date/Time: Saturday, April 4, 2009 – 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. RSVP to 323.717.9636, or email contactgbf@gmail.com

A Celebration of One of Man’s Greatest Wonders…Beer!

This Saturday and Sunday head over to the Los Angeles Beer Festival and celebrate the goodness that happens when barley, hops and other grains come together and make beautiful music (aka beer). The event will feature tons of international and domestic beer producers (including beer located within a 100 mile radius for those of you on the 100 mile diet). There will also be food pairings and beer friendly food so that you can enjoy your beer on a full stomach. Tickets are not sold at the door so please buy them ahead of time.

Location: 10202 W. Washington Blvd. Culver City, CA 90232 Date/Time: Sat & Sun, April 4-5, 2009 – 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission: $40 Purchase Tickets at http://www.drinkeatplay.com/labeerfest/

Celebrate the Arts

Today kicks off the Los Angeles Arts Weekend. From April 2nd thru the 5th take advantage of this event that is highlighting our city’s cultural movement, local talent and all artists working in performance, architecture, design, and more. You can see a complete listing of the daily events here. The ydt Pick: The Farmlab’s Salon featuring Dante’s Inferno film screening and discussion with artist, art director, writer and producer Sandow Birk taking place Friday, April 3rd at noon and Book swap hosted by Equator Books, Goodreads and ForYourArt on Sunday, April 5th from 2 to 4p.m. Go show your love for art and culture this weekend.

Location: Varies based on event Date/Time: April 2-5, 2009. Times vary by event.
Event Information and complete schedule can be found at: http://www.laartweekend.com

Being Green in LA and BEYOND…

So this event isn’t happening this weekend, it’s happening on Tuesday April 7th, but we wanted to give you some extra notice for the event as a ydt Co-founder (specifically me) will be on the panel along with Siel Ju of Green LA Girl, Karen Solomon of Opportunity Green, Andy Sternberg, Live Earth, and
Shayna Prunier, LEED AP, Certified Green Building Professional. It’s my first official panel so I’m very excited and could use the support. I’m also honored to be speaking with a outstanding group of local environmentalists and green business owners. Any ydt Readers who show up will also be entered to win a prize from ydt (think our cool stainless steel ydt Mug Be sure to talk to me after the event to be entered to win. The event is also taking place at the entreprenuer/free lancer hang out and communical work space Blank Spaces in the Miracle Mile. For more details on the event please visit on ydt Event Calendar. I look forward to seeing you there. Please RSVP if you plan on attending

Location: Blank Spaces: 5405 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036 Date/Time: Tuesday, April 7th from 7 to 9 p.m. RSVP: http://www.meetup.com/blankspaces/calendar/9316083/?a=facebook or call 323-330-9505

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