McConnell’s Ice Cream makes a Stand
Ice Cream for Everyone!
McConnell’s Ice Cream, founded in Santa Barbara and opening their latest right here in our little town, will be flowing free scoops from 3-8pm this Thursday.
Hit them up at 12073 Ventura Place, Studio City, you’ll be one of the cool kids.
Pun intended.
California Pizza Kitchen Ups the Ante in Studio City
If you haven’t been to California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) lately, you may not recognize the place. The location above Ventura Blvd West of Laurel Canyon at Laurelgove is the same, but the menu has lots of new additions. You’ll still find many of your favorites, the pizza and kid’s meals remain, but there is no shortage of new items to try. The family and I visited there recently and here’s what we found-
I’ve been a semi-regular visitor for years, I’ve always found it both good and consistent. Since they’re big supporters of our local schools, we’re supporters of theirs. One of those you scratch my back, I’ll scratch your back, things.
Once in a while I’m invited to try a restaurant or a product and tell people what I think. I go by the old adage, if someone asks for my opinion I give it to them. Okay, that’s not an old adage but whatever. CPK just went through a makeover to both the restaurant itself and the menu. It is funny to think of how long they had that familiar look. As long as I can remember. Some days that’s more than others.
In addition to an updated decor, their menu has a more farm to table feel. They’ve added small plates to the mix, which are nice to share or not if you’re the selfish sort. I have my moments.
For those that are gluten challenged, you’ll find you’re able to get a pizza and not pay the price, aside from paying the check.
They have some great entrees and I had the opportunity to try three of them. If you want something substantial, go for the Fire-Grilled Ribeye cooked any way you like it. I had to beg my 10 year old to try the Hearth-Roasted Halibut. Once she did, I had to fight her for it. She’s a scrappy one. The halibut was such a hit it didn’t last long enough to photograph. The pan roasted chicken was my wife’s favorite.
I didn’t have a chance to delve into the drink menu, but it’s colorful and I was tempted. Give that a look if you’re so inclined.
On the dessert side of things, the Salted Caramel Pudding was something I’ll go back for. I mention it because it’s worth mentioning. The kids enjoyed the S’mores and the Key Lime Pie. And yes, I shared.
While you’ll still find your familiar favorites on the menu, I’d suggest branching out and trying something new. You may just find a new one. You can thank me later.
Disclaimer: I was compensated for this post. I did like the food, no exaggerations there, and the people were very nice!
-Weekend-Whaddup- July Fourth Edition
The Studio City Fireworks Festival
when: Jul 4 at 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
where: CBS Studio Center, 4024 Radford Ave., Studio City, Ca
how much: $10-$125
who: everyone
the Whaddup:
If you’re in the business, this isn’t a big deal. But if you’re not, it’s fun to spend a day on the CBS Radford Studio Lot! This year the festival is a benefit for the Special Olympics, which will be hosted in Studio City. Deana Carter headlines, and additional entertainment includes magic shows, Mutiny Magazine pirates & mermaids, Blacksheep Squadron model airplanes, The Television Motion Picture Car Club, a kids fun zone, great food and (of course) spectacular fireworks!
General admission for kids 5 and under is free (kids are $10 and adults are $20), food and drink are not included (you can bring outside food and drink or purchase them at the event). Rooftop fireworks viewing costs an extra $20, or you can get VIP tickets from $15-$125 that includes a gourmet dinner, drinks, rooftop viewing and more.
more info: website
Old Glory Boat Parade
when: Jul 4 at 1 p.m.
where: American Legion Yacht Club, 215 East 15th St., Newport Beach, Ca
how much: Free
who: everyone
the Whaddup:
Watch out for (or enjoy) the water spray from the fire boats, as the parade of boats floats by! A whole host of boats, decked out in their finest red, white & blue, make up the parade. The theme this year is “Freedom Calling.”
You can watch the parade (for free) anywhere along the peninsula and islands.
more info: website
4th of July Fireworks at the Hollywood Bowl
when: Jul 2 – Jul 4 at 7:30 p.m.
where: Hollywood, Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N. Highland Ave., Los Angeles, Ca
how much: $5-$135
who: everyone
the Whaddup:
The annual 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular at the Bowl is always one of the best fireworks displays in town. This year the concert is headlined by the King of Motown, Smokey Robinson.
Picnic before the show or snack in your seats, you can stare up at the stars and the fireworks from this historic venue and enjoy the perfect Independence Day celebration!
The Bowl is offering 50% off tickets for kids 12 and under, call to find out details.
more info: website
Fireworks with the Dodgers
when: Jul 3 – Jul 4 at 7:10 p.m.
where: Dodger Stadium, 1000 Elysian Park Ave., Los Angeles, Ca
how much: $30 & up
who: All Ages
the Whaddup:
There will be fireworks on the field and in the sky tonight, as the Dodgers take on the Mets for an East vs West Patriotic match-up. Go Mets! Go Dodgers! You pick!
more info: website
Kaboom! Monster Trucks & FMX
when: Jul 4 at 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
where: Pomona Fairplex, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona, Ca
how much: $16-$25
who: everyone
the Whaddup:
What makes the best fourth of July ever for kids who love things with wheels? I like wheels! Kaboom! Monster trucks are up first, then FMX stuntmen do their show, and then the Human Cannonball will soar 150 feet through the air to keep the crowd on its toes and on its feet. Finally the evening ends with the biggest and best fireworks show in Southern California. Kids 2 and under are free.
more info: website
Dance Downtown (TANGO!)
when: Friday July 3rd (7-11)
where: Downtown (The Music Center Plaza )
how much: Free! Parking $9 before 8pm and $5 after 8pm in The Music Center parking lot located directly under the plaza. Access from Grand Ave.
who: Everyone
the Whaddup:
DANCE: Dance Downtown takes over the Music Center plaza on Friday night for an evening of Argentine tango. There are beginner dance lessons available, and the evening features music and an open dance floor under the stars. Bring a picnic or grab a bite on site. 7-11 pm. Free.
Calabasas Fireworks Spectacular
Where: Calabasasa High School Football Field
When: JULY 4 – 5:00 PM Gates open at 5:00 pm. Fireworks at 9:00 pm.
who: everyone
how much: $10 (kids under 2 are free). MUST PURCHASE TICKETS IN ADVANCE at De Anza Park: (818) 880-6461, Tennis & Swim Center: (818) 222-2782, City Hall: (818) 224-1600.
the Whaddup:
This is a family-oriented, fun-filled event so if raves are your thing and vegas doesn’t happen without you, look elsewhere. The Family Fun Zone is hosted by “Who’s That DJ?”! The Zone includes games and prizes, inflatables, arts and crafts, temporary tattoos, stilt walkers, balloons and more! Live musical dance party with Air Play plus additional patriotic surprises! Food available for sale on site: barbequed meats, sausages, roasted corn, snow cones and more. No alcohol allowed.
more info: website
-Weekend-Whaddup- Spring Forward Edition
It’s that time, to spring forward… we lose an hour of sleep and even though the clock shows we’re an hour later, it feels like we’ve been cheated. I don’t know why we still do this but I’d like it to stop! So if anyone has any pull…
Here’s a Friday something to do, before you get to the WeekendWhaddup…
HAPPY HOUR AT LOLLIPOP DREAM
Where: Lollipop Dream, 14006 Riverside Dr., Sherman Oaks
When:
Friday, March 6 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Who: Ages 2-8
How: Happy hour is a walk-in event, no RSVP necessary.
Cost: $8
the Whaddup:
Kiddos enjoy dressing up in their large vanity closet, having their faces painted, making crafts, playing games, hearing stories, and more.
For more info: More Info
And now, what you’ve been waiting for… #weekendwhaddup!
PURIM CARNIVAL
Temple Beth Hillel
when: March 8 11:30am-3:30pm
where: 12326 Riverside Drive
who: the whole family
how much: Wristbands – $40.00* Unlimited RIDES *pre-sale price. $45.00 at the door.
the Whaddup:
Admission to the fairgrounds is free! Rides and food require the purchase of tickets from ticket booth. Food, rides, and activities are paid for with multiple tickets.
more info: Website
ZIMMERPALOOZA PARTY TIME
when: Mar 8 at 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
where: Mid-City, Zimmer Children’s Museum, 6505 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, Ca
cost: $25
ages: All Ages
the Whaddup:
This is the Zimmer’s biggest family party of the year! With a special performance by Twinkle Time and Friends and a showcase of art created by participants of Zimmer’s signature classes, including Messy Masterpieces, Tinker Time & more, you definitely don’t want to miss out on this full day of family fun. Other activities include face painting, balloon animals, and more.
more info: visit website
THE LANTERN FESTIVAL
Saturday, March 7
Where: Chinese American Museum, 425 N. Los Angeles St., Los Angeles
When: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up
Cost: Free
the Whaddup:
Bigger and better than ever, the family-friendly Lantern Festival returns to Downtown Los Angeles featuring L.A.’s largest array of interactive cultural arts, crafts, and educational activities – all for free!
Celebrating the Year of the Ram, the festival honors the Chinese tradition of hanging colorful lanterns as families wish for peace and prosperity in the New Year. The festival runs from noon to 7 p.m., so be sure to check the schedule online to see what acts you can’t miss!
more info: More Info
PURIM FAMILY FUN FESTIVAL FOR YOUNG FAMILIES
When: 03/08/2015, Sunday: 11:30am-2:30pm
Where: 7353 Valley Circle Blvd., West Hills, CA 91364
the Whaddup:
This year, Shomrei Torah Synagogue debuts an all new Purim Family Fun Festival, designed just for young families! Enjoy games, bounce houses and inflatables, food, a climbing wall, live entertainment, arts and crafts and more! Buy advance tickets and save money – prices go up at the festival. Open to the community!
more info: Website
PALS OF PUP CAN WAG TO WOOFSTOCK
When: Mar 8 at 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: La Cienega Park, 8400 Gregory Way, Los Angeles, Ca
How Much: Free
Who: All Ages
the Whaddup:
It’s a pretty universal truth that kids LOVE dogs. So let them play with tons of them at Woofstock!
The day includes Cat and Dog Adoptions, a Pet Parade, Pet goodies marketplace, pet entertainment and food trucks for humans.
Parking on site or at Beverly Hills High School with free pet friendly shuttles to the park. Well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome.
more info: visit website
YOUTH ADVENTURES WITH A RANGER
When: Mar 7 at 11 a.m. to noon
Where: Santa Monica Mountains Visitor Center, 26876 Mulholland Highway, Calabasas
How Much: Free
Who: 3-7
the Whaddup:
Join a Ranger to explore nature while learning all about the local animals and plants.
more info: visit website
GRUNION PARTY!
When: Mar 7 at 9 p.m.
where: Beach Cities, Cabrillo Aquarium, 3720 Stephen M. White Drive, San cost: $1-$5
ages: All Ages
the Whaddup:
OH YEAH, IT’S ON!
Spend a night sitting on Southern California’s sandy shore waiting for the “grunion run.” Grunion are small sardine-size fish of the silversides family, which are among the few species of fish that actually come ashore to lay their eggs on sandy beaches. They are found from Southern California south to Baja California and arrive at night after the high tide around the new moon and full moon. Cabrillo Beach is one of the better places to observe the fish. Watch the silvery fish come up on the beach to spawn! Learn about the interesting mating rituals and growth of this curious fish.
The Aquarium opens at 8 p.m. and an auditorium program begins at 9 p.m., followed by guided observation at the beach. Warm clothing and a flashlight are recommended.
more info: visit website
REDONDO BEACH PIER FESTIVAL OF THE KITE
Sunday, March 8
Where: Redondo Pier 100 Fishermans Wharf, Redondo Beach 90277
When: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Who: The whole family
How Much: Free
the Whaddup:
Check out one of the longest-running Kite Festivals in Southern California! Brought to you by Sunshine Kite Company and Redondo Pier Association. The Redondo Pier Association is committed to providing FREE community events throughout the year including one of Southern California’s longest-running kite festivals, an outdoor summer concert series, chalk art festival, classic car show, taste of the Pier and holiday concert! If you like the beach life, this is something to keep your eye on!
For more info: Website
Free Kids Workshops “Build a Bookend” @ Home Depot
When: Saturday, March – 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: Your local Home Depot
Who: Ages 5-12
How: Register Online
Cost: Free
the Whaddup:
Home Depot offers a free monthly workshop for kids ages 5 – 12. The workshops teach basic DIY skills and tool safety. Kids go home with their craft and a free Kids Workshop apron, commemorative pin, and certificate of achievement.
For more info: More Info
THOMAS & FRIENDS EXPLORE THE RAILS
@
Discovery Cube Los Angeles
Where: Discovery Cube Los Angeles 11800 Foothill Blvd. Sylmar,
When: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Check website for daily hours
Who: Everyone
How: Buy tickets online or at the door
Cost: Included in museum admission. $10 / Children Under 2 FREE.
Thursday, March 5 through Sunday, April 26
the Whaddup:
Hop on board and discover the engineer within! Travel to the Island of Sodor where imaginations charge full steam ahead in Thomas & Friends™: Explore the Rails, a hands-on STEM exhibit based on the adventures of everyone’s favorite blue engine, Thomas, his engine friends and the Island of Sodor’s iconic locations: Knapford Station, Sodor Steamworks and much more. Help Thomas and his friends solve a variety of challenges, from simple sorting and shape identification to more complex engineering obstacles.
For more info: More Info
Ira Glass – This American Life and Serial
Date: Saturday, February 21, 2015
Time: 5pm – 7pm
Location: Carla’s Cafe on the CBS-Radford lot
the Whaddup:
Renowned writer, producer, storyteller Ira Glass is making his way to Studio City for a night on the CBS lot with you and your friends (tickets available at link below).
Two or Three Things I’ve Learned: An Evening with Ira Glass
You can join host of This American Life for a short talk, an audience Q & A and an opportunity to meet Ira during cocktails. Ira Glass is the creator of the public radio program This American Life. The show is heard each week by over 2.2 million listeners on more than 500 public radio stations, plus another million listeners by podcast. It was the most popular podcast in the country until its spinoff Serial premiered in Fall 2014. Under Glass’s editorial direction, This American Life has won the highest honors for broadcasting and journalistic excellence, including five Peabody awards. The American Journalism Review declared that the show is “at the vanguard of a journalistic revolution.”
So if this is your thing, you need to jump at this chance to catch Ira and raise cash for local elementary school, Carpenter Community Charter. Dollars raised go towards programs like PE, Art, Media Lab, Class Size reduction. Good cause, eh?
You may ask if it’s tax deductible… I say you check with your tax professional (but I think so).
Sign up at the Party Book site (link below)… then buy in to this must do event. All the cool kids are, but don’t let that stop you.
-Weekend-Whaddup- Feb 7-8.
Games Day @ The Studio City Library
Saturday, February 7
Where: 12511 Moorpark Street Studio City, CA 91604
When: 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Who: Kids and their families!
How: Just show up
Cost: Free
the Whaddup:
I like to shop for locally grown vegetables and we like to highlight locally grown events… Bring the whole family for LEGOs, Duplos, blocks, puzzles, board games, coloring, and more!
For more info: More Info
(818) 755-7873
American Youth Symphony: Family Music Adventure
Sunday, February 8
Where: UCLA’s Royce Hall 340 Royce Drive Los Angeles, CA 90095
When: 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Who: The whole family
How: Reserve online
the Whaddup:
LEGACY FEB 8 | ROYCE HALL 2pm – Family Music Adventure RADU PAPONIU, conductor SIMONE PORTER, narrator BLAKE POULIOT, narrator ANGELA BAE, violin Saint-Saëns: Carnival of the Animals; and Introduction et rondo capriccioso J. Strauss: Radetzky March RESERVE NOW! Children of all ages are invited to discover the joy of a live orchestra at this inspiring event. This enriching 45-minute concert and interactive lesson is the perfect way to share the legacy of classical music with your family! Arts & Crafts activities led by First 5 LA follow the performance. Sponsored by First 5 LA
Cost: Free
For more info: More Info
Do Some Traveling with the Harlem Globetrotters
when: Feb 7 at 1 p.m.
where: Exposition Park, Galen Center, 3400 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, Ca
cost: $23 & up
ages: All Ages
the Whaddup:
Crazy b-ball time! Entertaining young and old alike for almost 90 years, the legendary Harlem Globetrotters bring their unique and timeless mix of basketball, comedy, athleticism and entertainment to the Galen Center. The Globetrotters’ captivating dribbling and dunking wizardry combines with hilarious antics and fan interaction, all presented by some of the world’s greatest athletes and entertainers.
While it’s a must-see for basketball fans of all ages, this show will delight the entire family, sports nuts or no! The Globetrotters will face a great challenge this year, as the infamous Washington Generals are more determined than ever to beat the Globetrotters in the “Washington Generals Revenge Tour.”
more info: visit website
Dinosaur Train Live: Buddy’s Big Adventure
when: Feb 7 at 1 p.m. & 4 p.m.
where: Valley Performing Arts Center, 18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge
cost: $15-$25
ages: 2-6
the Whaddup:
Your little dino fanatic will want to join Buddy and friends in this fun-filled trip back in time when dinosaurs roamed the earth… and rode in trains! Through interactivity, music and laughter Dinosaur Train Live will have kids up and dancing in the aisles.
more info: visit website
Get Trucking To the Monster Jam Trucks
when: Feb 7 at 7 p.m.
where: Angel Stadium, 2000 Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, Ca
cost: $10-$60
ages: All Ages
the Whaddup:
Kids love trucks. Big trucks. Monster trucks. So take them to see a massive collection of the world’s best monster trucks battling it out in the ultimate event of high-octane speed, racing and destruction! One of the most popular touring family entertainment sporting events in the world, the Monster Jam is a high-flying, car-crushing explosive event of demolition, speed and powerful stunts with the world’s best monster trucks and drivers whose skills provide an awesome spectacle dirt-flying, high-energy fun.
more info: visit website
Thomas & Friends!
Thursday, February 5 through Sunday, April 26
Where: Discovery Cube Los Angeles 11800 Foothill Blvd. Sylmar,
When: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Check website for daily hours
Who: Everyone
How: Buy tickets online or at the door
Cost: Included in museum admission. $10 / Children Under 2 FREE.
Hop on board and discover the engineer within! Travel to the Island of Sodor where imaginations charge full steam ahead in Thomas & Friends™: Explore the Rails, a hands-on STEM exhibit based on the adventures of everyone’s favorite blue engine, Thomas, his engine friends and the Island of Sodor’s iconic locations: Knapford Station, Sodor Steamworks and much more. Help Thomas and his friends solve a variety of challenges, from simple sorting and shape identification to more complex engineering obstacles.
For more info: More Info
SUPERHERO SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS COMES ASHORE TO VISIT THE LOS ANGELES ZOO
Where: L.A. Zoo
When: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just show up
Cost: Included in museum admission
Friday, February 6
Superhero SpongeBob SquarePants comes ashore to make a personal appearance at the Los Angeles Zoo on Friday, February 6, 2015, the very same day that “The SpongeBob Movie – Sponge Out of Water,” from Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon Movies, opens in theaters. The world’s favorite sea dwelling invertebrate greets visitors and poses for pictures between 11 am and 4 pm at the Zoo’s Eucalyptus Grove.
For more info: www.lazoo.org
FREE Frozen Yogurt at Menchies!
Friday, February 6
Happy Frozen Yogurt Day from Menchies, who wants you to celebrate with free frozen yogurt and toppings from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. That’s our kind of celebration – sweet and free!
Where: Check your local Menchies for participation
When: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Who: The whole family!
How: Just show up
Cost: Free
For more info: More Info
Dig It! Archaeology Adventures @ Skirball
Saturday, February 7 through Sunday, February 8
Where: Skirball Cultural Center 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90049
When: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Who: The whole family
How: Drop in anytime during regular Museum weekend hours, weather permitting only. Last entry at 4:30 p.m.
Cost: Included in Museum Admission
the Whaddup:
There’s so much to see and do at the Skirball’s simulated outdoor archaeological dig and field laboratory! Slip on an archaeologist’s vest, sift and sort through sand to find hidden ancient artifacts, weigh and examine your findings, analyze clues, and work with archaeology staff to piece together the puzzles found in a Near Eastern Iron Age town.
For more info: More Info
Williams-Sonoma Cooking for Kids!
Junior Chef: Kids Cooking Class “Asian Dumplings” @ Williams-Sonoma Sherman Oaks
Saturday, February 7
Where: Sherman Oaks Fashion Square 14006 Riverside Drive Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Suitable for ages 9-13
How: Call (818) 906-2787 to make a reservation
Cost: Free!
the Whaddup:
Learn how easy and fun it is to make Asian dumplings. We’ll have the fillings ready, and you’ll scoop them into wonton wrappers and seal. Then the instructor will cook your dumplings two different ways—steaming and panfrying—so you can discover which you like best!
For more info: More Info
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