Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Cheap & Cheerful Wrestling Reunion-LAX Hilton

So when's the last time you went to Wrestling Reunion? Well it's time to get back into the action! This weekend, the Hilton Los Angeles Airport (5711 West Century Blvd) is hosting Wrestle Reunion 5 with all the wrestling greats for three days only (Friday January 28- Sunday January 30)

While you can spend a small fortune attending the matches and related activities over the entire event, a Friday Night "Ring of Honor" ticket is a mere $15.00. A ROH ticket gets you into the convention the Q&A session and the Friday night match.

Parking for the event is $7.00 (usually $20.00, so be sure to get the event discount!)

Face it, you just gotta go!

http://www.wrestlereunion.com/superstars/

1-310-410-4000

Thursday, January 20, 2011

Cheap & Cheerful Taste of TV - The Grove - Fairfax District

We've all been there, you have a friend in from out of town and they want to see a celebrity! Like it's that easy. Well, actually, it is! Just head to The Grove shopping center ( 189 The Grove Drive-Fairfax & 3rd, just east of Farmer's Market)

Monday - Friday, 9:00a.m.- 2:00p.m. EXTRA entertainment news broadcasts from the "streets" of the Grove. Everyday, someone is scheduled to come by an be interviewed by Host Mario Lopez. It's a fun, easy and if you validate your parking ticket, free* way to way how this show is put together. And who knows, the folks at home might see you on TV tonight!

*-for 2 hours

http://extratv.warnerbros.com/2010/09/extra_is_heading_to_the_grove.php

323.900.8080

Sunday, January 16, 2011

Cheap & Cheerful Martin Luther King Celebrations

So you've got the day off, why not do something to celebrate the day, the man and the Dream?

I learned of three parades that are happening.

The Congress of Racial Equality California's annual “Kingdom Day Parade” in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. The event will kick off at 10:15am on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Western Avenue and will proceed to Leimert Park, where attendees will be able to enjoy festivities, food, and entertainment.
(My sources say the food is G R E A T!)

The City of Gardena hosts a Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Celebration featuring bands, drumlines, classic cars, drill teams, and celebrities. This parade begins at 10:00am at the corner of Marine and Van Ness Avenue and proceeds to Rowlay Park.

Long Beach will honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with The Peace & Unity Parade Celebration. The parade starts at 10:30 a.m. at MLK Jr. Blvd. and Anaheim Street proceeding north to MLK Jr. Park. A celebration with food, craft vendors, rides, games and live entertainment in Martin Luther King, Jr. Park. runs till 5:00p.m.

The Autry Western Heritage Museum (4700 Western Heritage Way) will keeps its doors open on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. In honor of the holiday, visitors can expect a hands-on history lesson about African Americans in the West, a museum-wide scavenger hunt, and gold panning. Admission is $9.00 for adults, $5.00 for students (13-18) and seniors.
http://theautry.org/programs/family-activities/martin-luther-king-jr-day-were-open

You can also check MLKDay.gov and enter your zipcode to see a list of community service opportunities happening around you.
http://mlkday.gov/

Friday, January 14, 2011

Cheap & Cheerful Plane Spotting - Los Angeles Intl. Airport

How many times have you been to LAX? How many times have you been into the Theme Building? And what about the observation deck on the Theme Building? Come on people, check it out! Especially on a sunny weekend!

New security measures are now in place. These include inspection of personal belongings before you enter the nonstop elevator for a quick ride from the lobby to the Observation Deck.

The Deck itself is free, but parking is not. Rates can range from $5.00 - $20.00 depending on what lot you use. I am a fan of parking at one the nearby hotels on Century Blvd. and taking the universal shuttle into the airport. Once on the deck, there are four free telescopes available but you should probably bring your own binoculars. Sunglasses and sunscreen are probably a good call.

Hours are Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m..

The one-of-a-kind ENCOUNTER restaurant opens at 11:00am and serves lunch, dinner and cocktails. At least poke your head in there...it is a must-see.

Could not find a website on the Theme Building but the phone number for Encounter is

310-215-5151.

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Cheap & Cheerful Friday Night -Long Beach

And now for something completely different--check out Shark Lagoon Nights at The Aquarium of the Pacific (100 Aquarium Way)

Sure we have all had a cocktail with the shark in the past--but this is the real deal.I mean when's the last time you had an opportunity to touch a bamboo shark? Or watch a tankful of predators glide through massive tanks equipped with floor to ceiling windows.

To add to the party atmosphere, beer, wine, coffee, hot cocoa, desserts, and snacks are available for purchase.

Shark Lagoon Night runs from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00p.m. ALMOST every Friday, but not every Friday night. Also Shark Lagoon Nights can be canceled due to bad weather. To avoid disappointment, check the website for the complete schedule and call before you go.

While the event is free, parking at the Aquarium parking structure is listed at $8.00 -$15.00 for events...so ask about that when you call as well.


http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/newsevents/eventsdetail/shark_lagoon_nights/

(562) 590-3100, ext. 0

Sunday, January 9, 2011

Cheap & Cheerful Getaway - Scottsdale

Hey even bloggers have to get out of town every now and then.
Many of us head to the Phoenix area at least once a year. Since this trip was on the back end of the holidays, we were definitely looking to keep a lid on costs.

Have I a find for you! 3 Palms Scottsdale (7707 East McDowell Road,) is a recently remodeled 2 story motel...oh I know what you are thinking... bare bones, horrid location.

The rooms, though on the small side, are beautifully appointed with all the latest electronics, contemporary furnishings, granite countertops and very comfortable beds. The shower/tub was fresh and and the water was good and warm but they do have those flow regulators--hey it is Arizona.

The pool area is immaculate (though a little on the spartan side) well heated in January and the generously sized hot tub is great. Pool towels are available at the front desk.

If you are a light sleeper I would recommend the top floor closer to the back of the property as late arriving guests can wake you up.

Avalon an adjacent restaurant is popular with guests, but we were trying something new each meal. And nothing is more than a 15-20 minutes drive. Old Town Scottsdale is about 5 minutes away.

Oh yeah, and room rates start at $56.00 a night! For that rate, you cannot beat this place. I have paid much more for much less.


Check it out for yourselves:

http://www.scottsdale-resort-hotels.com/

(480) 941-1202 – (800) 450-6071 ‎

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Cheap & Cheerful Royalty - Olvera Street

For those of you who got rained out of Las Posadas this year, you still have chance to enjoy the holiday spirit of Olvera Street. (125 Paseo de la Plaza)

Tomorrow night, Thursday, the Merchants of Olvera street present the Fiesta de Los Tre Reyes (the three kings). This involves a candlelight procession and a theatrical reinactment of the Ephiphany of the Magi--or the arrival of the three kings with gifts for the baby Jesus.

The event runs from 6:30-9:00pm Admission is free. Complimentary refreshments including traditional Mexican pastries are served.

Street and lot parking.

213625-7074

http://www.olvera-street.com/

Cheap & Cheerful Art Walk -Laguna

Now that the sun has finally returned, how bout a trip to the beach tomorrow afternoon/evening --complete with a tour of 40 art galleries?

Every first Thursday of the month the Laguna Art Walk introduces visitors to the vibrant art scene of this charming beachside town. Start at the Laguna Art Museum (307 Cliff Drive) and begin your self-guided tour through opening exhibitions, demonstrations music and dance performances. Couldn't hurt to browse the stores and grab a coffee along the way.

Hours are 6pm-9pm Admission is free, but parking in Laguna is always a challenge even on a weekday. Get down there early for best choice.

949-683-6871

http://www.firstthursdaysartwalk.com/content.htm

Saturday, January 1, 2011

Cheap & Cheerful New Year's Swim - Venice

Rise and Shine! Sign up for the 51st Annual Venice Beach Penguin Club New Year's Day Swim starts at 11:00 am today at the Venice breakwater.(Windward Avenue at the Ocean)

Swim begins at high noon. There are two courses, one for those who swim for fun, the other for those who wish to compete. All participants get a certificate.

Participation in the swim is free. Children are welcomed to join in, but all participates should be in good health. Snacks and hot drinks are provided courtesy of the Sidewalk Café. Commemorative tee shirts are sold to pay for permits and insurance.

Bring $15.00 for parking, rates vary from lot to lot but it shouldn't be more than that for city lots on a holiday.

http://www.yovenice.com/2010/12/26/venice-beach-penguin-club-new-year%E2%80%99s-swim-2011/

Information: Mary McGurk at 310-821-8136
or SCAQ (Southern California Aquatics) at 310-390-5700.