These Apps Have Saved My Life (well, maybe not literally.)

It’s pretty rare that something comes into your life that is life altering. These three Apps have done that for me: Instacart, Postmates and Prime Now.

Time and efficiency are essential in my job, and anything that helps me with both, are golden! These apps offer a service that delivers stuff to my clients and me. In a town where a 20 min drive turns into an hour, and you need to get things done as quickly as possible, and these apps have been life-saving for me.

Instacart

Istacart is fast delivery service for groceries, sometimes within an hour. It depends on what stores are close to you, for me, the options are: Whole Foods, Costco, Gelson’s, Smart and Final, Erewhon and Ralphs. They will list the stores that will charge you the same in-stores prices (most do.) It’s super easy to shop; you can type in a search of what you want or shop by department/category. This is worth it if you at least have a bag of groceries to buy. Depending on availability cost for delivery is $8-$12. I’ve used when a client was having a dinner party and did not have time to shop. A good time to use: When you’re just too busy to spend an hour shopping, and this app will let you do it all in 10 minutes.

Postmates

If you put Postmates to work, they can be your personal “Runner.” Postmates started as a food delivery service, but it can be much more if you get creative! Don’t get me wrong, it’s still great when you have a craving for Sprinkles. I’ve used them to pick up scripts from FedEx/Kinko’s (that I had emailed to them and had them print out and bind,) a box of Lette Macarons for a gift, McDonalds for a crew of movers. They charge a % of your total cost + a small delivery fee. A good time to use: when your Significant Other is home sick, and you can send a quart of Chicken Matzo Ball soup from Jerry’s Deli or their favorite comfort food.

Prime Now

Not much to explain here, it’s Amazon, but faster! Delivery in two hours with no delivery fee, you just need to be a Prime Member. You don’t get ALL of Amazon, but you still have a lot of choices. I’ve bought items like office chairs, oil pastels, sunscreen and board games. A good time to use: When you’ve run out of ink for your printer and don’t have time shop.

Colorful Buddha

For me, this is the year of love and creativity. I wanted both, and I got both. Yay me! It took me MANY years to find my significant other. I had pretty much thought it would never happen but decided to give online dating one more chance. Cause, if I didn’t even try, then “for sure” it wasn’t going to happen. And there he was, and we just instantly clicked. We met each other’s families within the first two weeks of dating, and it was just easy. Easy, they way I had always thought it would be when you meet the right guy.

For one of our early dates I suggested we go to Color Me Mine, one of those “paint your own” pottery places, and he was into it (for that he scored major points.) It was also his Mother’s Birthday coming up so I suggested that it could be fun do something for his mom, and he did! A Garden Nome, and she loved it.

I immediately went for the little Happy Buddha Man. I just liked it, I thought of it as an art piece, and I totally went for it. I used bright colors and did henna/tattoo symbols all over the body. It just came it me – I wanted to be free, be creative, think out the box. Little Buddha Man came out fabulous, everyone who has seen him has loved him. My new man even loved him. The day of his mother’s birthday (after he had given her the Nome.) He proudly whipped out his phone and showed off a picture of Happy Buddha Man to his entire family. Many of them are artists themselves, and I just adored that he was so proud to share my creative side. I was proud too.

Make this a Movie Memorial Day Weekend!

This year, buck tradition and leave your hot dogs and burgers for the 4th of July.
With incredible events taking place across LA, you’ll have no problem skipping your standard BBQ and heading to the movies instead.

The First Outdoor Cinema Food Fest of the season.

Food trucks, rolling green hills to picnic on, movies and music. Um, need we say more? Okay fine. They’re screening Something About Mary. Sold  

 
 
 

There are some filmmakers that literally change the way you view the world, perhaps none more than Tim Burton. Lucky for us, LACMA is featuring the man that made Johnny Depp your favorite actor.  You can also check out the retrospective exploring the full range of Tim Burton’s creative work, both as a film director and as an artist, illustrator, photographer, and writer. The exhibit opens Sunday at The Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Friday at 7:30p: Edward Scissorhands
Saturday at 7p: Ed Wood

 
 

If you haven’t taken part in Cinespia yet, you’re missing out. Pack a picnic and head out to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, where you can watch classic movies among well, the graves of classic stars. Slightly creepy? Maybe. Absolutely fabulous? Yes. Yes. Yes. The best part? Cinespia now offers advanced ticket sales.

Saturday: Vertigo
Sunday: Young Frankenstein

The Hangover – Part 2

This movie hardly needs an introduction – we’ve all been patiently waiting for it since the first Hangover. Let’s just if you liked the first one, you’ll love the sequel. It’s insane, in a laugh from opening to end credits kind of way. Well done gentleman, well done.

The Egyptian Theater

There’s something about holiday weekends and Hitchcock that go hand in hand… Even better? Hitchcock + Cary Grant. Yes please!

Friday at 7:30p: Psycho and The Birds
Saturday at 7:30p: To Catch a Thief and Notorious
Sunday at 7:30p: Vertigo

The Aero Theater

Two words: Marty McFly. Need I say more? Oh yeah, It’s a Back To The Future triple play. Thank you Aero!

Friday at 7:30p: Singin’ In The Rain
Saturday at 5pm: All 3 of The Back To The Future Movies!!!
Sunday at 7:30p: Lawrence of Arabia

Things to do this weekend: March 24th – 26th – Gay Musicals, Food Trucks and Rainn Wilson

Ah, the weekend is upon us. Sadly, the rainpocalypse continues.
Here are a few things for you to do this weekend (instead of hibernating at home):
 

Rainn Wilson to Bare His Soul(Pancake) at USC  

Friday, March 25 – Bovard Auditorium, USC

http://sait.usc.edu/spectrum/events_details.asp?EventID=654
Escape the rain by seeing Rainn Wilson speak at USC this weekend (pun delightfully intended). You may know Rainn Wilson as endearingly awkward Dwight Schrute from the Office, but turns out Rainn has a lot more on his mind than being an actor. He recently launched Soul Pancake, a website that’s devoted to asking life’s tough questions. Enlightenment from a fictional paper salesman? Only at USC.

Free and open to the public, reserve your ticket using the link above!  

The Next Fairy Tale: A Gay Fairy Tale Musical

Friday, Saturday, Sunday – March 25, 26, 27 – Celebration Theatre

http://www.celebrationtheatre.com/

Have you ever wondered what would happen if Prince Charming was in fact pining for a Prince, instead of a Princess? Well, The Next Fairy Tale takes on the classic fairy tale musical and brings it into the 21st Century. Complete with not one, but three fairy godmothers, this song-filled spectacle will satisfy your fairy tale fix while delivering a refreshing message of tolerance. 

 

LA Sake Festival

Saturday, March 26 – Hollywood Renaissance Hotel

http://www.drinkeatplay.com/lasakefestival/

There are only three words you’ll need to know before you walk into the LA Sake Festival: ichi, ni, san (that’s one, two three in Japanese!). With each shot you throw back (of the 100 varieties of sake at the festival) you can use your new catch phrase to impress partygoers. Also, take advantage of the introductory sake lessons so you can become the sake guru you were born to be.

Tickets are $50 and include admission, sake (of course), introductory classes, and dessert!

 

2011 LA Film + Music Weekend 

Friday, Saturday, Sunday – March 25, 26, 27 – Beverly Hills

http://www.lafilmweekend.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=23&Itemid=137

One thing the rain can’t interfere with is a movie festival. With two venues and four screens, the  2011 LA Film + Music Weekend boasts both short and feature films from award-winning filmmakers and newbie auteurs alike. Two highlights you won’t want to miss: a Michael Jackson documentary and Beatles tribute film. If you want to make a weekend of it, check out the Thompson Hotel for discounted rates (make sure to mention the festival!).

 

NoHo Food Festival and Flea Market

Sunday, March 26 – 11 to 5 pm

http://www.nohofoodtruckfest.com/

One of the greatest phenomena of recent memory is without a doubt the birth of the gourmet food truck. This Sunday, brave the rain and reward yourself by feasting on food from Ragin’ Cajun Café, Sweet E’s Bake Shop, Me So Hungry Truck and Fresh Fries (among others). When you’re done noshing, browse the flea market for some one-of-a-kind finds.

Have you read my blog?
 

Rain + Driving = Bad Drivers

image

This year, Mother Nature has treated Angelenos to the gift of rain. Lots of it. Unfortunately, when it rains in LA, everyone panics, especially drivers. Instead of driving more carefully, people go nuts and drive worse. Here are some tips for surviving rain season in Los Angeles when you’re on the road:

 read more here!

Bring me the music!!

It’s March. Spring is awakening, everyone is starting to worry about their taxes, and most importantly, concert season is kicking off in Los Angeles. Lucky for you, here’s a list of the “must attend” concerts this year:

Lady Gaga – Monster Ball Tour – Staples Center – March 28, 2011

Oh the spectacle. See Gaga prancing around in her Alexander McQueen Armadillo shoes and other fashion concoctions, live.
 

Coachella – Featuring Kings of Leon, Arcade Fire and Kanye West – April 15, 16, 17, 2011

Desert sun? The option of camping with thousands of your closest friends? The hottest bands on the planet all in one place? Yes please. Note that although tickets are technically sold out, you’ll probably be able to score them on craigslist or eBay as the show approaches. Note that tickets haven’t been distributed just yet, so don’t get scammed by a third party!
 
 

The 2nd Annual L.A. Bluegrass Situation – Featuring Watkins Family Hour, Punch Brothers, Ed Helms’ Whiskey Sour Radio Hour featuring the Lonesome Trio and Steep Canyon Rangers with Steve Martin – Largo at the Coronet  – April 28, 29, 30 and May 1.

This Bluegrass music festival is brought to you by none other than Ed Helms, of the Hangover fame. An added bonus? Renaissance man Steven Martin (actor, author and bluegrass musician. Who knew?).
  

Yanni – Nokia Theatre LA Live – May 8, 2011

That’s right, your favorite crooner from childhood is back. Take your parents and indulge your nostalgia.
 
 

Dolly Parton – Hollywood Bowl – July 22, 23, 2011

The great thing about the Bowl is that it doesn’t matter what seat you are in. Even the nosebleed seats are fabulous. Especially if you bring along a bottle or two of your favorite wine.
 

Rodrigo y Gabriela – Hollywood Bowl – August 12, 13, 2011

Watch this incredible guitar-wielding duo on YouTube and you’ll quickly understand why this is a must see show.

Sade featuring John Legend- Staples Center – August 19, 20, 2011

A Very Yenta Workshop!

Vision Board Party!! Woo Hoo!!!
  

THE YENTA REPORT hosts a Get Your Groove On Vision Board Party!
Girls, Guys, and Gays are all welcome to attend this fun workshop that will inspire you to imagine BIG for all your hopes, dreams and wishes in 2011.  All supplies provided (but if you have extra magazines around or a picture of yourself – bring them!) Share with friends – everyone is invited!

Drinks and nibbly bits provided!  No experience necessary – just come!

Saturday, Feb. 26th 5:00 – 7:30 PM
$20 + $15 material fee

Sign up and purchase class NOW at Hands-on 3rd!

Hope you’ll come a join the fun!

xo – Loren

PS – In case you’re wondering – what is a vision board??? A vision board is a collage of images, pictures and affirmations of your dreams, desires, hopes and wishes! You’ll take home with you a brighter sense of purpose and a fun guide that you created yourself.  – Awesome!

 
THE YENTA BLOG!

Coffee Is a Serious Matter

Friday, January 28, 2011

I don’t think I‘ve spoken to you yet about my obsession with my Keruig Coffee Maker.  I’ve had it for two years – and I love the k-cups (the pods of coffee for the machine.) I love that I can just make one cup of coffee at a time and that each time it’s a fresh cup – not a “burnt” or “old” cup that you get after your coffee pot has been on the burner for too long!

Read more here!

Arts, Movies and Music

LA Happenings you might want to check out this weekend!
  

No, this isn’t your yearly exam!  Inspired by Andy Warhol and Jack Smith, this is a new work by gender-queer art and music icon, Vaginal Davis. This original work will be staged at MOCA for one night only and will feature production design and costumes by Jonathan Berger, and appearances by special invited guests.

Saturday, January 22, 2011
Four performances, 7pm, 8pm, 9pm, 10pm; 45 minutes each
$15-$20
AHMANSON AUDITORIUM


MOCA Grand Avenue (Downtown)

“Have you heard of Plato? Aristotle? Socrates?  Morons!”  Extraordinary writer, actor, Obie Award-winning playwright and best-selling author, Wallace Shawn reads and interprets from his most recent work, Essays, and the works of writers and thinkers he admires.  Shawn is best known for the films My Dinner with Andre, which he co-wrote, and his inconceivably funny turn in The Princess Bride.  Released in 2009, Essays is a highly personal, often self-deprecating collection of his own perspective on life, politics, morality and the power of art.

Saturday, January 22, 2011
8pm
$28/38/48 ($15 UCLA students)
Royce Hall
UCLA

Can you believe it?  2011 marks the 10th anniversary of the release of  The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.” American Cinematheque must love you geeks ‘cause they are to show all 623 minutes of the trilogy, all back to back.  And to make it even juicer—it’s the director’s cut of all three films!

Saturday, January 22, 2011
1pm
General Admission $11.00 Members $7.00. Seniors 65+/Students w/valid ID $9.

6712 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood

Let yourself drift into a higher, perhaps lighter state of mind with the Chamber Ensembles from the Crossroads School performing selections from Debussy String Quartet, Dvorak: “American” Quartet, Beethoven: “Spring” Sonata, and Mozart: Violin Sonata in E minor, K. 304.  Sundays Live features premier professional artists from Southern California and around the world.

Sunday, January 23, 2001
6pm
Free, no reservations
Bing Theater

Los Angeles County Museum of Art
5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles

Arts, Races, Wine and Pong

7LA Happenings you might want to check out this weekend!
  

The City of Los Angeles has declared January of each year “Los Angeles Arts Month.”  L.A. is a hothouse of culture and creativity where the cutting-edge neighbors the historic.

Los Angeles Arts Month’s mission is to raise awareness, appreciation, and participation in the arts in Los Angeles in all forms.  So find a new experience: from visiting a small gallery to attending local theater, to getting a taste of a multi-cultural festival!  Los Angeles Arts Month is an open invitation for Angelinos and guests!

The Amazing L.A. Race: Sightseeing Tour, Game and Scavenger Hunt in One

 The Amazing Los Angeles Race should feel like a sightseeing tour/thriller hybrid—The Amazing Race Meets The Da Vinci Code!  Participants form teams of 2 to 8 people and receive their first clue at the starting line. Each solution leads to the next clue— and to top L.A. attractions, including Mann’s Chinese Theatre, the Walk of Fame, Walt Disney Concert Hall, and the Hollywood Bowl, culminating in a finish-line awards ceremony.

A good old fashioned Double-Feature pairs up with a good old fashioned drinking game.  As per usual, your first beer is on the house, as this monthly event starts off the year with two of our favorite 1980’s Zucker Bros.  film comedies, NAKED GUN and AIRPLANE!  What a great tribute to the late Leslie Neilson!

Saturday – Doors at 7:00pm.
NAKED GUN at 8:00pm
AIRPLANE at 10:00pm

Rooftop Beer Pong ’til late.

At Downtown Independent 251 S. Main St.$10 Advance, $12 at the door.

The New Year is a great time to change up your exercise routine!  Starting this Sunday, a New Cycling Club will be starting at team sporteve.  It’s free, and the first ride will get those legs spinning for a few hours up the coast!

Sundays, beginning January 9

9:00 AM

Taste 5 great Cheeses! Taste 5 Amazing Chocolates!  Experience 10 great wines!  Join Ian Blackburn,Sommelier, Candidate for The Master of Wine, and Founder of LearnAboutWine, for a special class bringing together these three divine creations. The attire may be casual, but the attitude is not!  “You will explore the sensual contrasts and delights that each element brings to the experience — the crisp acidity, mouth-filling robustness or smooth viscosity of great wine; the sharp, subtly sweet or complexity of fine cheese; and the rich luxuriousness of superior chocolate ranging from creamy milk to intensely dark.”  You don’t have to convince us—it’s wine, cheese and chocolate!

Sunday – 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Loft 218 – 530 Molino St #218
Advanced Purchase   $69
General Admission    $80

Gifts, Charity and The New Year!

Dear Yenta,
I have a random question for you… A company my boyfriend works with is looking for a charity (non-religious) that is handing out food over the holidays that they can surprise with a load of 5000 pounds of turkey to add to their food donations for the holidays.  Again, random I know, but would you perhaps know of a charity that is giving out food, that could use some help?

Wow, that’s a lot of food!!!  Here are some places for you to check out!

SOVA Food Pantry (Part of Jewish Family Service – it’s not affiliated with a Temple)

Or

The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank

Westside Food Bank

Food Bank of Southern California

Dear Yenta,
Who makes the best best best, hugest, fanciest most AMAZING gift baskets in Los Angeles — I mean AMMMMAAAAZZZING like 500 dollar or more baskets… Gourmet – beautiful!!!!!!!!  Any ideas?

 

It depends on what you’re looking for… Any of these can be amazing.  The more money you spend – the larger and more amazing it will be!

Food: Joan’s on Third    

Fragrance: I recently had a gorgeous basket made from Santa Maria Novella on Melrose Place for Anne Hathaway. 

Booze: Mel and Rose 

General Gift Baskets: LA Gift Company 


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Whatever is beautiful,
Whatever is meaningful,
Whatever brings you happiness…
May it be yours in the New Year!

Love you, mean it.

-Loren

Where Jews eat on Christmas

HAPPY HOLIDAYS
 

For all you Jews who go out to eat on Christmas Day – and all others who just don’t want to stay home – here’s a list of restaurants that will be open! (At least something besides Chinese Food and Hotel Restaurants.)

Buca di Beppo  (all locations) http://www.bucadibeppo.com/christmas/?gclid=CLe1t9CO_6UCFR9NgwoddiY5mw

Canter’s (Fairfax District) http://www.cantersdeli.com/

Fraiche (Culver City) http://www.fraicherestaurantla.com

Gaucho Grill  (Brentwood) http://www.gauchobrentwood.com

Il Fornaio  (Beverly Hills) http://www.ilfornaio.com/

Kabuki (all locations) http://www.kabukirestaurants.com/

Kitchen 24 (Hollywood)   http://www.kitchen24.info/Home.html

La Cacheltte Bistro  (Santa Monica) http://www.lacachettebistro.com/

Locanda Del Lago (Santa Monica) http://www.lagosantamonica.com

McCormick and Schmicks Seafood (Beverly Hills)http://www.McCormickandSchmicks.com

Oak Fire Pizzeria and Pub (West Hollywood) http://oakfirepizza.com/

Pacific Dining Car  (Downtown and Santa Monica)http://www.pacificdiningcar.com/

The Palm (Downtown) http://www.thepalm.com

Sefan’s at L.A. Farm  (Santa Monica)  http://stefansrestaurants.com

The Stinking Rose (Beverly Hills)  http://www.thestinkingrose.com

Valley Inn (Sherman Oaks) http://www.valleyinndining.com

Wolfgang’s Steakhouse  (Beverly Hills)http://www.wolfgangssteakhouse.com

Good Times…

LA Happenings you might want to check out this weekend!
 
Saturday, December 11, 2010 at 11:00 AM – Sunday, December 12, 2010 at 6:00 PM California Market’s Center’s Penthouse: 110 E. 9th St. Tickets: $10

“The largest independent design show in the country, attendees get the rare chance to meet and shop directly from over 300 hand-selected designers and artists. The exciting two-day shopping event makes it easy for you to buy local and support LA’s economy, discover great design and deals, join in community, and have a blast! Over 95% of the products at the show are proudly made right here in the USA!

On top of shopping the wide variety of offerings, the event boasts many exciting Extras & Amenities, including free workshops, an eco lounge, and two cafes featuring some of LA’s best restaurants and gourmet food trucks. Plan to spend the day with us!”

CHARLES PHOENIX’S RETRO HOLIDAY SLIDE SHOW 

Sunday, December 12 at 3 pm Downtown Independent Theater: 251 S. Main Street. Tickets: $25

“Ambassador of Americana, Charles Phoenix celebrates how we decorated, dressed up, dined, and drank during the holidays in the 50s and 60s.

With his abundant joy, clever wit and keen eye for odd-ball detail, Charles supercharges the classic living room slide show into a laugh-out-loud extravaganza of classic and kitschy mid-century New Years, Easter, Fourth of July, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas life and style.

Marvel at the most politically incorrect New Years Rose Parade floats, the Lamb Cake Contest on Easter Sunday, then explode with patriotic pride on the July Fourth. Home made Trick-or-treat costumes will have you howling on Halloween before we trace tragic life of a Thanksgiving turkey, attend a kinky Christmas bondage party, see who got the most outrageous toys on Christmas morning. This and much, much more all in glorious Kodachrome color! …

Festive holiday dress is encouraged but not expected!”
The annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade will be held on Saturday evening, December 11th. FREE!

“The Saturday evening parade will run between 6 and 8 P.M. Traditional fireworks that annually noted the beginning of the boat parade will be shot off the south jetty of the marina at 5:55 P.M.”

Saturday, December 11, 2010 | LA Print: 4 pm – 8 pm @ LACMA West Penthouse | Reception: 8 pm – 11 pm @ A+D Museum (across the street from LACMA) | Ticket Information: $20 PDC and Muse members | $25 LACMA members | $30 General public | Must show PDC or Muse membership card to pick up discounted tickets. $2 convenience fee added to all online and phone orders |

“LACMA West Penthouse/Edward Cella Art + Architecture and Steve Turner Contemporary
(Mid-Wilshire)4–11pm
LACMA’s Prints & Drawings Council presents a first-ever collaborative event focusing on current trends in printmaking and print publishing in Los Angeles. Guests are invited to connect with artists, curators, printers, and dealers to learn about the making and collecting of fine art prints, with prints and editions ranging in price from $20 to $1,000, available through Art Center Los Angeles, El Nopal Press, Hamilton Press, Los Angeles Printmaking Society, Lucky Bunny, Modern Multiples, Outpost for Contemporary Art, and Self-Help Graphics. The evening will conclude with an after party at Edward Cella Art + Architecture and Steve Turner Contemporary, with complimentary cocktails and food truck service by Patty Wagon and more.”



Saturday, December 11th, 10:30 a.m. at the Los Angeles Public Library Mark Taper Auditorium, Downtown Central Library, 630 W. 5th St. Free and open to the public.

“Using the James Bond books, movies, and other writings of Bond creator Ian Fleming, along with period cookbooks, food historian Linda Civitello will show us the food that follows the famous “shaken, not stirred” martini.

A reception with themed refreshments will follow the talk at approximately 11:30.

ABOUT LINDA CIVITELLO
Linda Civitello wrote the award-winning book Cuisine and Culture: A History of Food and People, which is used to teach food history in culinary schools throughout the U.S. and Canada. A frequent lecturer on food history, Linda has appeared on TV on “Bizarre Foods,” and on NPR. She has taught at culinary schools throughout Southern California. You can also hear Linda on an audiotaped tour of artworks related to food at the Getty Museum. Linda has a B.A. in English from Vassar, an M.A. in History from UCLA, and is currently writing her dissertation on food at UCLA.

Saturday, December 11, 7 – 10 pm at Outpost HQ 1268 N. Ave 50 Los Angeles, CA 90042. Each print is only $6, or buy two for $10.

“T-shirt Revival Night is a silk-screening event that features a new artist every month in conjunction with NELAart Second Saturday Gallery Night. The screen-printing process is live at Outpost HQ, which sets up a unique point of interaction between the artist and their audience. Guests bring a favorite old T-Shirt in need of sprucing up or any other item they may like to have the artist print on.

Stephanie Sabo is a Los Angeles-based artist and designer. A graduate of the California Institute of the Arts, she now teaches foundations and fashion design at the Art Institute of California – Hollywood. Sabo is currently working with Noon Design Studio to develop new processes for screen-printing all-natural dyes onto textiles.”


THIS WEEKS BLOG!

A Very Schmoozy Blog Post

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

SCHMOOZE – A Yiddish word that’s just fun to say…

This is the beginning of “Exploring Yiddish Words With The Yenta.” More to come soon….

Definition according to the Urban dictionary: Making ingratiating small talk – talk that is business oriented, designed to both provide and solicit personal information but avoids overt pitching. Most often an artifact of “networking.” It is more art than science but can be learned.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE

Thanksgiving, Volunteering and Men’s Haircuts

Ask the Yenta

Dear Yenta,

Can you recommend any places for the good citizens of LA to Volunteer on Thanksgiving Day? I want to give back to the community, and my family is having our Thanksgiving a day later.

You’d be surprised to know that Thanksgiving is actually a very popular day to volunteer.  Many organizations are have already filled their volunteer needs on Thanksgiving.  But, please don’t give up!  Below are organizations you can check out – and if not on Thursday – keep going and pick another day – you’ll be happy you did!!!

 

Food On Foot 

9663 Santa Monica Blvd. #743

Beverly Hills, CA 90210

(310) 442-0088

Food on Foot operates a weekly meal program every Sunday, as well as Thanksgiving, in Hollywood. Sign up at their web site to volunteer.

 

Los Angeles Mission

303 East 5th Street

Los Angeles, CA 90013

(213) 629-1227

The Los Angeles Mission has many volunteer opportunities, including donations, and meal service. They have reached their volunteer goals for Thanksgiving Day, but are eager for volunteers other days. Go to their web site to sign up for their volunteer orientation.

 

Interfaith Food Pantry

10 participating congregations are in North Hollywood, Studio City, and Van Nuys. (818) 980-1657

Volunteers are needed to donate food, work in the pantry, pack bags, and help unload trucks Monday through Friday mornings.

 

Operation Gratitude

Help pack care packages for the troops through December 17th. To volunteer for the Holiday Drives email the volunteer coordinator at: OpGratVolunteer@yahoo.com (Write “Operation Gratitude Volunteer” in the subject line)

 

More Volunteer ideas:

http://www.nbclosangeles.com/station/as-seen-on/Thanksgiving-Dinners-Los-Angeles-2010-109038009.html

 


Dear Yenta,  

I was hoping you could give me the name of a salon or two where a guy can get a haircut for $40-$50 in the Hollywood or West Hollywood area? It seems like there are tons of places between $20 & $30 I’ve gone to and received terrible haircuts or they’re in the $80 or higher range which is just too much for me to shell out. Any information you can provide or any place you know of would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, James.

Hey James,

Please check my recommendations for men’s grooming at The Yenta Report

http://www.theyentareport.com/index.php?/ylist/reviews/mens_grooming1/

Other WeHo locations to check out:  Shorty’s, Richie the Barber, and Floyd’s 99 Barbershop.

Candy, jobs and girls night out!

Ask the Yenta
 

Dear Yenta,

This is really random, but do you know where in LA I can buy cheap individually wrapped mints in bulk? I am hosting that huge party this weekend, and I want to give out branded candies to attendees. But since I waited until the last minute, I will probably have to create them on my own instead of ordering them from a company. But I don’t know where to buy wrapped mints that I can brand (with stickers). Any ideas?

 

Try this place:  They’re downtown, they sell candy in bulk—and you don’t need a wholesale license!

http://www.jackscandyandtoy.com/index2.html


Dear Yenta,  

I am currently an event coordinator and in search of an employment change.  I LOVE event planning and would like to stay in something similar or steer towards an Executive Assistant position or Personal Assistant to a high profile client. I’m in need of a challenge and I have no ties to any one location or place…  I’m ready and willing to roam. My question is– Where is the best place to start searching for those positions? I know it’s a tough industry to get in to, but I’m ready to find something new!

Take a look at some of the employment agencies I have listed on The Yenta Report.

http://www.theyentareport.com/index.php?/faq

Also, check out Craig’s List—good jobs sneak in there!


Dear Yenta,

I need a fun activity for a girls’ weekend with old college friends (one is pregnant). We were going to go to a spa. We’ll do a day in Malibu (Getty Villa, Paradise Cove, and of course Duke’s), but there are two days in a weekend and I’m having trouble coming up with something.  Help!

I need a fun activity for a girls’ weekend with old college friends (one is pregnant). We were going to go to a spa. We’ll do a day in Malibu (Getty Villa, Paradise Cove, and of course Duke’s), but there are two days in a weekend and I’m having trouble coming up with something.  Help!

For daytime check out Malibu Wines…

http://www.malibufamilywines.com/

http://www.malibuwine.com/

I think you can do a fancy tasting—or just picnic! Someone bought me a bottle recently and it was surprisingly good!

The Grammy Museum at LA Live—I hear it’s really cool!

For nighttime go have dinner at Trader Vic’s, then go to the Club, Bar 210.

I still love Nic’ Martini Lounge—good for dinner and drinks, and you can go into the Vodka bar and take fun pictures wearing fur coats!

You could always do Bar Marmont – a really Hollywood scene.

If you want to stay in the Valley go to Firefly.

I always love taking out-of-towners to Yamishiro in Hollywood—great views of the city.

You know you want to read my blog!
Though the show is not over yet, I’ve already been getting depressed that the Oprah show is ending. I really look forward to watching the episodes when I get home at night, or having Opra-thons on the weekend.  I mean who else is going to talk to me about my omentum (the fatty part of my stomach), or let me cry when someone realizes their mother is a murderer, or when men come out as molestation victims?

Oh where, oh where can my little Yenta be?

Ask the Yenta
 
Dear Yenta, I stopped getting the report. What happened?”

Hey, Yenties!

I hope you haven’t missed me too much!  Please forgive me for the “pause” in our relationship.  I took on a new job this year and, such as life can be, it’s sometimes hard to juggle many tasks at once.  I hope you’ve continued to follow me on Facebook and Twitter as I regularly send updates on both platforms.

Please continue send me questions and if you know someone that would make a great TYR Query – please email me!  A new query is coming out this week!  I’m baaaaaack!

I can’t thank you enough for your support!

All my love,

The Yenta

I’ll leave you with some of my new “favorite things!”

Lil Rae Cakes – Not only are the little cakes really yummy and cute, but Jenny herself came in her fancy polka-dot outfit and dropped them off for a recent staff birthday. A hit!

Six Taste  – There’s no better a better way to explore the city than to “eat through it.”  I explored the city with the Little Tokyo Tasting tour! It was fun, informative, different and we totally ate a ton! Hint: Check Goldstar Events for discount tickets

Zumba – If you haven’t heard of this yet – get out from the rock you’ve been living under.  You will dance your ass off while shaking your hips to this Latin dance workout.  And for those of you who think your “not coordinated enough…”  Hush!  No one cares.  Just go move your ass! Check out the website for classes near you!

This weeks Blog!!!

 

You know, you want to read my blog…

I got pulled over…

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Upon leaving the after party of last Sunday’s Video Music Awards, I got pulled over by the LAPD. (Oh My!) The very white, militaristic cop asked if I knew that I was driving over the double yellow lines.

“Ahh, no?!”

“Well Ma’am, do you have any reason why you might have been doing that??”

“Ya, I’m exhausted!”

READ MORE HERE!

This Yenta is offering advice..

Ask the Yenta
 
Something must be in the air…cause the questions this week are really personal. 
 
 
“Dear Yenta, Can you give me step-by-step instructions on how to get unstuck from the rut of an un-happy job and career path?
Great question – I’m sure there are many people out there asking themselves the same thing.  First of all, you’re not going to get a new job without a positive attitude – which, I know is harder when you’re out of work and stressing – so you gotta try to brighten your outlook. If you’re feeling really blue, people will feel it and see it!  I’m also all about seeking support. A life coach or career coach is always a positive move.  If you are stuck in a job that you need for the money or health care, or whatever – just decide to change your perspective!!  Start to search for your passion outside of work!  A hobby, art class, book club – something that will shake up your normal habit, get you out of your head, and meet new people. You never know where your next job lead or career idea will come from. That’s my two cents – Yenta Out!

 
“Dear Yenta,  If I like tidiness and chaos, and I am not happy unless I am depressed – what do you suggest?”
DRUGS. No, seriously, I think this is out of my league. Find a good psychiatrist and find a mediation that’s works for you. To get a good therapist, you can try 1-800-THERAPIST or www.psychology.com
Good luck!!


Valentine’s Day

Okay, I have a feeling many of you still have not purchased a Valentine gift. And so you don’t get in trouble with your loved one – here are some quick and fun ideas!!
 

Breakfast in bed – c’mon, any of you can swing this!

Converse tennis shoes, red or pink – so cute!!  They also have a Valentine’s Collection online.  Check the website for locations near you that carry Converse, or try Bloomies, Macy’s, Nordstrom or Footlocker.http://www.converse.com/#/products/collections/Valentines%20Day

Dinner and a movie – go see the film Valentine’s Day.  You can reserve seats ahead of time at Arclight or AMC Century City. Or do breakfast at The Farmer’s Market followed by the movie at The Grove.

Calling all chocolate lovers! – here’s my list:http://www.theyentareport.com/index.php?/ylist/reviews/chocolate/

 
 
 
Just Because
 
 
Don’t forget our fabulous “Yentawood” t-shirts …no explanation needed!! Available in pink and black for women (sizes: small to XL, $30) and black for guys (sizes: small to 2XL, $30 or $33 for 2XL), this is a must-have gift for any Yenta in your life. – to see, go to the website and click on “shop!”
You know you want to read my blog!

Questions I’m asking myself post Super Bowl?

Monday, February 8, 2010

Shouldn’t the bands that perform at The Super Bowl have songs on the charts from this century?