FEBRUARY 2011 CULTURE ALERT

Hello all - Short month, but lots to do around town. Almost 900 free cultural events are listed here: festivals, lectures, readings, walks, conferences, plays, screenings, jams, openings, & many, many concerts. Among the interesting people you can meet around town are Jerry Leiber & Mike Stoller, Oliver Stone, Andrei Codrescu, Andy Summers, Billy Collins, Robert Pinsky, & W.S. Merwin; Michael Pollan, Jonathan Lethem, Julian Sands, Sen. Scott Brown, Keanu Reeves, "Weird Al" Yankovic, & Condoleezza Rice.

This month’s events celebrate Presidents Day, the Lunar New Year, & African American History Month. There’s the Camellia Festival, the Festival of Friendship in Cerritos, Fiesta De La Candelaria, & observances of Ronald Reagan’s centenary & the 40th anniversary of the Apollo mission.

As usual, everything listed is free & open to the public as far as I know. Please call ahead if you dislike surprises, & please note that RSVP means you must reserve a place. “Call to verify” means I couldn’t confirm the event. Some events that require museum admission are listed, because many of us have memberships in local museums.

Have a great month, & please get out there & support the arts.

Rina

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Tue 2/1 11 amArtist Talk at OtisFine Arts presents a lecture by artist Joel Tauber.Forum, Otis College, 9045 Lincoln, Westchester310/665-6827 ● otis.edu

Tue 2/1 12 noonArt History in TorranceArtful Days: Mary Drobny presents a talk on "Galka Scheyer & the German Expressionist Artists."Nakano Theatre, 3330 Civic Center Dr, Torrance310/781-7171 ● tcac.torrnet.com

Tue 2/1 1 pmJustice at Cal LutheranRev. Alexia Salvatierra, the first recipient of the CLU Peace Prize, speaks on "Economic Justice, the New Sanctuary Movement & Christianity."Lundring Center, Cal Lutheran U, 60 W Olsen Rd, Thousand Oaks805/493-3951 ● clunet.edu

Tue 2/1 1:30 pmClassic Movies at the SkirballScenes from a Crazy World: Screening of Jacques Tati's amazing 1967 film "Playtime."Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda, West LA310/440-4500 ● skirball.org

Tue 2/1 2 pmMovies at GPL: Evita (1996)Central Library, 222 E Harvard St, Glendale818/548-2042 ● library.ci.glendale.ca.us

Tue 2/1 3:30 pm

Magic at the Chinatown LibraryFor kids: Celebrate the New Year with the Magic of Tony Daniels, a magician who will first amaze you & then teach tricks. Chinatown Branch of LAPL, 639 N Hill St, LA 213/620-0925 ● lapl.org

Tue 2/1 4 pmTeen Movie at the Washington LibraryScreening of "Never Been Kissed," just in time for Valentine's Day.Washington Irving Branch of LAPL, 4117 W Washington Blvd, West Adams 323/734-6303 ● lapl.org

Tue 2/1 4 pmRwanda at USC"World Outside My Shoes: One Witness Remembers the Genocide in Rwanda" Carl Wilkens gives his personal account of what he witnessed & his inspiring call to action against bigotry & violence. RSVP online.University Religious Center, USC213/740-6026 ● usc.edu

Tue 2/1 4 - 5 pmPoland at PepperdineOpening reception, featuring a lecture by author Louise Steinman, for the exhibit "Traces of Memory: A Contemporary Look at the Jewish Past in Poland.”Payson Library, Pepperdine University, 24255 PCH, Malibu310/506-6589 ● pepperdine.edu

Tue 2/1 6 pmArt | Science at UCLA"Amorphic Robot works" Artist Chico MacMurtrie talks about his highly awarded & frequently exhibited work.Fowler Museum, UCLA310/206-0686 ● artsci.ucla.edu

Tue 2/1 6 - 8 pmSalon at the Marina LibraryGerry Fialka's Marshall McLuhan/Finnegans Wake Reading Club reads 2 pages of the book every month, & lets a free-wheeling discussion kick off from there.Lloyd Taber Library, 4533 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey310/821-3415 ● laughtears.com

Tue 2/1 7 pmEthnicity at OccidentalAn evening with Robin DG Kelley, whose books include studies of Thelonious Monk, Alabama communists, culture wars, labor history, & Black literature, speaks on ethnicity in the past & present of the US.Mosher 1, Occidental College, 1600 Campus Rd, Eagle Rock323/259-3649 ● oxy.edu

Tue 2/1 7 pmPluto at Vroman'sAstronomer Mike Brown discusses "How I Killed Pluto & Why It Had It Coming."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Tue 2/1 7 pmChinese Film at CalArtsBérénice Reynaud gives a multi-media presentation on "Ruins in Recent Independent Chinese Cinema," with excerpts from several recent films.Bijou Theater, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Tue 2/1 7 pmHumor at Book SoupCartoonist Nick Galifianakis discusses "If You Loved Me, You'd Think This Was Cute: Uncomfortably True Cartoons About You."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Tue 2/1 7 pmIn-Store at AmoebaMusic from Baths, playing their electronic/pop/percussive synth mix.Amoeba Music, 6400 Sunset, Hollywood323/245-6400 ● amoebamusic.com

Tue 2/1 7 pmWriters at the HammerNew American Writing: Novelist & Aminatta Forna & short story writer Janice Shapiro read from & discuss their work.UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood213/309-4322 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Tue 2/1 7:30 pmBusiness at USCSocial Mashup! Learn from a panel of representatives from companies like Disney, KKi & Roozt.com about integrating business & social responsibility.Hoffman Hall Room 302, USC213/740-6786 ● usc.edu

Tue 2/1 7:30 pmTravel Talk in Santa MonicaThe SM Bay Audubon hosts Allan & Muriel Kotin presenting "Flora & Fauna of the Islands of the British Archipelago."Ken Edwards Center, 1527 4th St, Santa Monica310/392-6662 ● http://smbas.atspace.com

Tue 2/1 7:30 pmHot Rods at the PetersenCurator Leslie Kendall & guest-researcher Tony Thacker lead a walkthrough of the exhibition "National Hot Rod Association: 60 Years of Thunder." Free w/admission.Petersen Museum, 6060 Wilshire Blvd, Miracle Mile323/964-6347 ● petersen.org

Tue 2/1 8 pmPoetry in RB: John Schlegel + open readingCoffee Cartel, 1820 S Catalina Ave, Redondo Beach310/316-6554 ● redondopoets.com

Tue 2/1 9 pm (also 2/17)Comedy at the Downtown IndependentHoly F*ck Comedy features LA's best stand-up comics slumming from their high-profile day jobs. Downtown Independent, 251 S Main St, Downtown LA213/617-1033 ● downtownindependent.com

Tue 2/1 9 pmPoetry at the Cobalt: F. Douglas Brown + open readingCobalt Café, 22047 Sherman Way, Canoga Park818/348-3789 ● poetrysuperhighway.com/cobalt

Groundhog Day

Wed 2/2 10 amPainting at Rancho Sierra VistaBring art supplies & join fellow artists in painting Plein Air landscapes. Observers welcome.Rancho Sierra Vista, Lynn Rd at Via Goleta, 1000 Oaks

805/583-8044 ● nps.gov/samo

Wed 2/2 12 noonWhat Matters at USCA discussion series encouraging reflection about values, beliefs, & motivation, this month led by Cinematic Arts professor Alessandro Ago.Ground Zero Coffee House, USC213/740-6110 ● usc.edu/whatmatters

Wed 2/2 12 noonConcert at 1st Baptist GlendaleMusic @ Noon presents Catherine Del Russo, Victor deAlmeida, & Galina Barskaya in a chamber music recital, featuring music by Charles Martin Loeffler. Lunch avail for purchase.1st Baptist Church, 209 N Louise St, Glendale818-242-2113 ● fbcglendale.net

Wed 2/2 12 noonGallery Talk at the FowlerCulture Fix: Vodou Flag - Fowler curator Patrick Polk discusses a Vodou flag & the capacity of artistic creativity to powerfully encapsulate the tragedies & triumphs of the nation of Haiti.Fowler Museum of Cultural History, UCLA310/825-4169 ● fmch.ucla.edu

Wed 2/2 12 noonConcert at Pasadena PresbyterianA lunchtime concert from Evan Marshall on mandolin.Pasadena Presb. Church, 585 E. Colorado Bl, Pasadena626/793-2191 ● ppc.net

Wed 2/2 12 noonLunar New Year at CSULACelebrate the Year of the Rabbit with hip-hop performer Rocky Rivera, popular dance crew Culture Shock LA, a traditional Lion Dance, games, red envelopes, & campus & community organizations.U-SU Plaza, Cal State Univ, 5151 State University Dr, LA323/343-5001 ● calstatela.edu

Wed 2/2 12 noonMusic Industry at USCMarket researcher & entrepreneur Eric Garland discusses the radical disruption of the music industry in the Internet age.Social Sciences Building B40, USC213/821-3015 ● usc.edu

Wed 2/2 12:30 pmMexico at USCMauricio Benitez discusses "Transitions from Discretion to Rules: Lessons from Mexico." RSVP online.Social Sciences Building B40, USC213/740-6026 ● usc.edu

Wed 2/2 12:30 pmConcert at OccidentalPianist Eugenie Russo plays music by Bach, Schoenberg, Berg, & Wellesz.Bird Studio, Occidental College, 1600 Campus Rd, Eagle Rock323/259-3649 ● oxy.edu

Wed 2/2 12:30 pmArt Talk at the HammerA lunchtime chat focused on one artwork; today, Sol LeWitt's "Untitled" (1982).UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood310/443-7000 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Wed 2/2 12:45 pm

Organ Recital at the CathedralA short organ demonstration from resident organist Samuel Soria or guests.Our Lady of the Angels, 555 Temple, Downtown LA213/680-5205 ● olacathedral.org

Wed 2/2 1 pmRomantic Movies at PPL"Sleepless in Seattle" (1993), with Meg Ryan & Tom Hanks.Library, 285 E Walnut St, Pasadena626/744-4052 ● ci.pasadena.ca.us/library

Wed 2/2 1 pmEthnomusicology at UCLAThe Nazir Ali Jairazbhoy Colloquium Series hosts Tanya Merchant, talking about her research.Schoenberg Music Building, Room B544, UCLA310/206-3033 ● ethnomusic.ucla.edu

Wed 2/2 3 pmConcert at Loyola Marymount LA"Mind & Spirit" Musicians from the Santa Cecilia Orchestra, conducted by Sonia Marie De Leon de Vega, bring classical music to the community.Loyola Marymount, Doheny Campus, 10 Chester Place, West Adams213/477-2500 ● msmc.la.edu

Wed 2/2 3:15 pmFilm at CSULAThe Pan African Student Resource Center screens the 2nd half of "The Color Purple."U-SU, 2nd floor, Cal State Univ, 5151 State University Dr, LA323/343-5001 ● calstatela.edu

Wed 2/2 4 pmChinese New Year at the Agoura Hills LibraryCelebrate the Year of the Rabbit by joining in the magificent lion dance parade & learning the relaxing art of tai chi.Library, 29901 Ladyface Court, Agoura Hills818/889-2278 ● colapublib.org

Wed 2/2 4 pmFamily Film at the Burbank LibraryScreening of "Shrek Forever After: The Final Chapter."Central Library, 110 N Glenoaks Blvd, Burbank818/238-5600 ● BurbankLibrary.com

Wed 2/2 4 pmReagan at the Reagan LibraryTom Brokaw moderates a panel discussing the biography & legacy of Ronald Reagan. Panelists include Douglas Brinkley, Governor Pete Wilson, Peggy Noonan & Lou Cannon. RSVP.Reagan Library, 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley800/410-8354 ● reaganfoundation.org

Wed 2/2 4:30 pmArtist Talk in ClaremontClaremont Grad University hosts a conversation with visiting artist Kim Dingle.Albrecht Auditorium, 925 N Dartmouth St, Claremont909/621-8612 ● cgu.edu/art

Wed 2/2 5:30 - 7:30 pmOpening at CSUDHReception for the 10th Int'l Shoebox Sculpture Exhibition, with small works from 80 artists.Gallery, CSU Dominguez Hills, 1000 E Victoria St, Carson310/243-3696 ● http://cah.csudh.edu

Wed 2/2 6 pmSpoken Word at Tia Chucha'sStoryteller BK Bomar presents “The Country,” about a small community of mostly relatives in the backwoods of Tennessee, where witchcraft, voodoo & supernatural events are part of everyday life.Tia Chucha's, 13197 Gladstone Ave, Sylmar818/528-4511 ● tiachucha.com

Wed 2/2 6 pmArchitecture Talk at USCJenny Wu, partner at the LA-based design firm Oyler Wu Collaborative, speaks on "Cumulative Processes/Intimate Understandings." Gin D. Wong Auditorium, USC213/740-2787 ● usc.edu

Wed 2/2 6:30 - 8:30 pmProcession on Olvera StreetFiesta De La Candelaria marks the end of the Christmas festivities, with a procession bringing Christ figures & elaborately dressed dolls to be blessed in the plaza, + music & refreshments.El Pueblo Historical Monument, Olvera St, Downtown LA213/485-8372 ● calleolvera.com

Wed 2/2 7 pmPhotography at SMPLMeet renowned, award-winning photographer Daisy Gilardini & learn of her expeditions to the polar regions.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Wed 2/2 7 pmPort at Vroman'sBill Sharpsteen presents "The Docks," an eye-opening journey into the giant madhouse of the Port of LA."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Wed 2/2 7 pm (also 3/3, 3/5, 3/6)Moon Landings at the ObservatorySpecial talks to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Apollo flights. Tonight, "The Moon Landings: Hoax or No Hoax?" in 3D.Griffith Observatory, Griffith Park213/473-0800 ● griffithobservatory.org

Wed 2/2 7 pmFilm at OccidentalRoger Guenveur Smith screens & discusses his film "A Huey P. Newton Story," directed by Spike Lee.Mosher 1, Occidental College, 1600 Campus Rd, Eagle Rock323/259-3649 ● oxy.edu

Wed 2/2 7 pmLA at CSUNThe Dept of Urban Studies & Planning presents scholar & author Joel Kotkin discussing "Does Los Angeles Have a Future?" RSVP.Whitsett Room, SH 451, CSUN, 18111 Nordhoff, Northridge818/677-2904 ● csun.edu

Wed 2/2 7 pmIn-Store at AmoebaMusic from Men, a Brooklyn-based band & art/performance collective that focuses on the energy of live performance & radical potential of dance music.Amoeba Music, 6400 Sunset, Hollywood323/245-6400 ● amoebamusic.com

Wed 2/2 7 pmGypsy Rose at Book Soup

Karen Abbott discusses "American Rose: A Nation Laid Bare: The Life & Times of Gypsy Rose Lee."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Wed 2/2 7 pmLiterature at OccidentalBrazilian artist, composer, & theater director Octavio Camargo speaks on "Composition & Oral Poetry."Clapp Library, Occidental College, 1600 Campus Rd, Eagle Rock323/259-3649 ● oxy.edu

Wed 2/2 7 pmSustainability at SMPLGreen Living Workshop: Part 5 of 6 sessions on simple steps that preserve the environmentand save you money. RSVP online.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Wed 2/2 7 pmDon Ed Hardy at Track 16The tatoo artist talks about his life, work, & shack (now on exhibit), alongside a screening of Emiko Omori's documentary "Tattoo the World."Track 16 Gallery, Bergamot Station, 2525 Michigan, Santa Monica310/264-4678 ● track16.com

Wed 2/2 7 pmMovies at USCSCA Alumni Screening Series screens Jeffrey Blitz's new feature "Lucky," followed by a Q&A with the the director, editor, & others. RSVP.George Lucas Building 112, USC213/740-2330 ● cinema.usc.edu

Wed 2/2 7 pmArchitecture Talk at SCI-Arc"The Forms of Plenty" Hernan Diaz Alonso, principal of LA-based Xefirotarch, talks about his oft-published & exhibited work.SCI-Arc, 960 E 3rd St, Downtown LA213/613-2200 ● sciarc.edu

Wed 2/2 7 pmArtist Talk at the HammerCharles Gaines, described as “one of the first, if not the first, African American, to work in the field of conceptual art,” talks about his work.UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood213/309-4322 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Wed 2/2 7:30 pmNature Talk at Eaton CanyonFelicia Williams discusses "Creating Great Places to Bike II: New York City, Copenhagen, Amsterdam" for a meeting of the Sierra Club.Eaton Canyon Nature Center, 1750 N Altadena Dr, Pasadena626/359-5278 ● angeles.sierraclub.org/pasadena

Wed 2/2 7:30 pmBrazilian Film at UCLAScreening of "Dzi Croquettes," the story of the Brazilian Theater group that through talent, irony & humor confronted the violent dictatorship in the 1970’s.Melnitz/James Bridges Theater, UCLA310/825-2101 ● tft.ucla.edu

Wed 2/2 7:30 pmGladiators at the Getty VillaClassicist Garrett G Fagan speaks on "Watching the Fighters: The Roman Fascination with Gladiators." RSVP.

Getty Villa, 17985 PCH, Pacific Palisades310/440-7300 ● getty.edu

Wed 2/2 8 pmRecital at CalArtsSolo performances by Travis Kane & other student composers, with orchestra & chamber ensemble accompaniment.Wild Beast, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Wed 2/2 11 pm - 1 amLunar New Year in ChinatownThe community gathers to welcome good health, prosperity, & harmony for the “Year of the Tiger” with offerings to the deities, firecrackers to awaken the spirits, & incense to usher in good fortuneChuan Thien Hau Temple, 750 N Yale St, Chinatown, Downtown LA213/617-0396 ● chinatownla.com

Thu 2/3 8:30 amTechnology at the Crawford ForumScott McGregor, CEO of Broadcom, & Richard Waters, West Coast Editor for the Financial Times, discuss "Powering the Connected Era." RSVP.Crawford Family Forum, 474 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena626/583-5100 ● scpr.org

Thu 2/3 10 amMovie at the Manhattan Beach LibraryThe Coffee & Classics Film Series screens "Prisoner of Zenda" (1937), with Ronald Coleman & Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.Library, 1320 Highland Ave, Manhattan Beach310/545-8595 ● colapublib.org

Thu 2/3 11:15 amDon't Ask at USCA panel of veterans & activists discuss implementation of the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" & screen the documentary "Patriots."Montgomery Ross Fisher Building, USC213/740-7619 ● usc.edu

Thu 2/3 12 noon (also 2/10, 2/17, 2/24)Organ Recital at FCCA short noontime concert on one of the world’s largest musical instruments.1st Congregational Church, 540 S Commonwealth, Mid-Wilshire213/385-1345 ● fccla.org

Thu 2/3 12 noonMusic at Lake Avenue ChurchGoldline Noon Concerts presents chamber music; see website for artist. Lunch avail. for purchase.Lake Ave Church, 393 N Lake, Pasadena626/844-4700 ● lakeave.org

Thu 2/3 2 pmMovies at the Montana LibraryIn Case You Missed It Film Series: "Leap Year," with Amy Adams & Matthew Goode.Montana Branch of SMPL, 1704 Montana, Santa Monica310/829-7081 ● smpl.org

Thu 2/3 2 pmMovie at the NoHo LibraryScreening of Spike Lee's "Malcolm X," with Denzel Washington & Angela Bassett, for Black History Month.

North Hollywood Branch of LAPL, 5211 Tujunga Ave, NH818/766-7185 ● lapl.org

Thu 2/3 4 pmIndians at USCWalter Mignolo of Duke University delivers a lecture on Native Americans & colonial Latin America.Social Sciences Bldg 250, USC213/740-7619 ● usc.edu

Thu 2/3 4:15 pmAuthor at Scripps CollegeLiza Bakewell reads & discusses her new book, "Madre: Perilous Journeys with a Spanish Noun."Malott Commons, Scripps College, 1030 Columbia Ave, Claremont909/607-9372 ● scrippscollege.edu

Thu 2/3 5 - 11 pmArt Night at Pomona CollegeArt After Hours: View the current exhibitions & enjoy VOICES, a spoken word event.Pomona College Museum of Art, 333 N. College Way, Claremont909/621-8283 ● pomona.edu/museum

Thu 2/3 6 pmMosic at the FowlerFowler Out Loud: Latin acoustic fusion group Fusionando brings on their trademark hybrid musical flavor that reflects a diverse synthesis of Latin, jazz & rock rhythms.Fowler Museum of Cultural History, UCLA310/825-4169 ● fmch.ucla.edu

Thu 2/3 6 - 8 pmReception at the FowlerMeet artist Allan deSouza & view his work in "His Masters' Tools: Recent Work by Allan deSouza." Fowler Museum of Cultural History, UCLA310/825-4169 ● fmch.ucla.edu

Thu 2/3 6 - 9 pm First Thursday in San PedroArtists open their studios & galleries, stores & cafes stay open for after-hours shopping, plus live music, vendors & more.4th St - 7th St, Old San Pedro310/519-0936 ● 1stthursday.com

Thu 2/3 6 - 9 pmArchitecture at A+D MuseumPanel discussion upon the publication of "The Power of Pro Bono: A Conversation between Architects & Their Clients." RSVP.A+D Museum, 6032 Wilshire Blvd, Miracle Mile323/932-9393 ● http://aplusd.org

Thu 2/3 6 - 9 pmPerformance at LACECurator David P Earle & artists Starlee Kine, York Chang, & Eugenia Paz discuss the "Open Daybook" project, considering the curatorial process, an examination of time, & the unique artwork created for the project. LA Contemporary Exhibitions, 6522 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood323/957-1777 ● welcometolace.org

Thu 2/3 6:30 pmPhotography Talk at the AnnenbergNature photographer Daisy Gilardini speaks on "Polar Wonders: Photographs from the Ends of the Earth." RSVP.Annenberg Space for Photography, 2000 Avenue of the Stars, Century City213/403-3000 ● annenbergspaceforphotography.org

Thu 2/3 6:30 pmHistory at the HuntingtonMany American paintings created during the Civil War & Reconstruction still resonate today. Margaret C Conrads explores how art helped negotiate the horrors of the war & the instability of the postwar era.Friends’ Hall, Huntington Library, 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino626/405-2100 ● huntington.org

Thu 2/3 6:30 - 9 pmArchitecture in Century CityFORM Magazine celebrates the latest issue & the AIA/LA Design Awards with a panel discussion on inspiration with Mehrdad Yazdani, Benjamin Ball, Lorcan O'Herlihy, & Annie Chu. RSVP.1901 Avenue of the Stars, Ste 175, Century City818/956-5313 ● formmag.net

Thu 2/3 7 pmFaith at Vroman'sJames L. Kugel discusses "In the Valley of the Shadow: On the Foundations of Religious Belief."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Thu 2/3 7 pmArtist Talk at the HammerUCLA Dept of Art presents widely-exhibited, LA-based painter Laura Owens. UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood310/825-0557 ● art.ucla.edu

Thu 2/3 7 pmHardcore at Book Soup"Kids Of the Black Hole: How LA Hardcore Changed the World" Steven Blush, Keith Morris (Circle Jerks, OFF!), Tony Cadena (Adolescents), Lisa Fancher (Frontier Records) & punk photographer Edward Colver celebrate the new edition of "American Hardcore: A Tribal History."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Thu 2/3 7 pmOpera Talk at the Burbank LibraryThe LA Opera League presents a talk on Britten's "Turn Of the Screw."Central Library, 110 N Glenoaks Blvd, Burbank818/238-5600 ● BurbankLibrary.com

Thu 2/3 7 pmCapitalism at LAPLAloud presents writer & entrepreneur Peter Barnes in conversation with historian Joyce Appleby about whether the market can effectively serve both private interest & public good. RSVP.Taper Auditorium, LA Public Library, 5th & Flower, Downtown LA213/228-7025 ● lapl.org

Thu 2/3 7 pm (see 2/2)Moon Landings at the Observatory

Thu 2/3 7 pmHappening at MOCA GeffenAs part of their Engagement Party residency, The League of Imaginary Scientists brings in their Evolving Contraption, a morphing art apparatus & stage for interactive adventures. Galleries open free.Museum of Contemporary Art, 152 N Central, Little Tokyo213/621-1745 ● moca.org

Thu 2/3 7:30 pmFilm at the Korean Cultural CenterScreening of the recent Korean TV feature "Becoming a Popular Song.”Korean Cultural Center, 5505 Wilshire Blvd, Miracle Mile323/733-0500 ● kccla.org

Thu 2/3 7:30 pmArchaeology at LACMAMarian Feldman presents "Diplomacy by Design: Luxury Arts & an "International Style" in the Ancient Near East, 1400–1200 BCE. RSVP.LA County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire, Miracle Mile 323/857-6512 ● lacma.org

Thu 2/3 8 pmRecital at CalArtsVoice Dept themed recital — a theatrical evening of murder, nature, passion & insanity.Wild Beast, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Fri 2/4 12 noonArchitecture Talk at SCI-ArcA special lecture by renowned English architect Sir Peter Cook, a founding member of the 1960s futurist group Archigram.SCI-Arc, 960 E 3rd St, Downtown LA213/613-2200 ● sciarc.edu

Fri 2/4 12 noonMusic at Trinity LutheranA noontime concert by oboist Rong-Huey Liu & organist Namhee Han.Trinity Lutheran Church, 1340 11th St, Manhattan Beach310/546-3106 ● palosverdes.com/tlcmusic

Fri 2/4 2 pmGender Studies at USCValerie Jenness discusses "The Olympics of Gender Authenticity: Sex, Violence & Transgender Inmates in Prisons for Men." RSVP.Social Sciences Bldg 250, USC213/740-1739 ● usc.edu

Fri 2/4 3:15 pmTeen Arts at the Rowland Heights LibraryA workshop for ages 10-14 - Learn drawing & painting techniques, build visual art skills emphasizing process, learn 2D & 3D design, create mixed media art in a fun, hands-on workshops with a professional artist. RSVP.Library, 1850 Nogales St, Rowland Heights626/912-5348 ● colapublib.org

Fri 2/4 3:30 pmTeen Movie at the NoHo LibraryTGIF screens "The Sorcerer's Apprentice," starring Nicolas Cage.North Hollywood Branch of LAPL, 5211 Tujunga Ave, NH818/766-7185 ● .lapl.org

Fri 2/4 6 - 10 pm1st Fridays on Abbott KinneyShops stay open late, with live jazz, openings, refreshments, artist talks, discounts, & surprises. Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice310/399-5544 ● abbotkinneynow.com

Fri 2/4 7 pmLanguage at Vroman's

Liza Bakewell presents "Madre: Perilous Journeys With a Spanish Noun."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Fri 2/4 7 pmSalon at Majestical RoofAn evening of poetry & live music from Ricardo Acuña & David Strother + guests, & free wine.Majestical Roof, 88 N Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadenahttp://tinyurl.com/23tklwm

Fri 2/4 7 pmJapanese Film at UCLAScreening of "Love & Honor" (2006) directed by the legendary Yamada Yôji.Melnitz/James Bridges Theater, UCLA310/825-4811 ● international.ucla.edu

Fri 2/4 7 pmArt Direction at Book SoupCathy Whitlock presents "Designs on Film: A Century of Hollywood Art Direction."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Fri 2/4 7 pmGospel at 1st Lutheran VeniceScott Cross sings upbeat inspirational songs of faith & hope for challenging times.1st Lutheran Church, 815 Venice Blvd, Venice310/821-2740 ● flvenice.org

Fri 2/4 7 pmAnimation at USCColombian filmmakers & international media scholars screen & discuss rarely seen, expressive Colombian animation. RSVP.Eileen Norris Cinema Theatre, USC213/740-6786 ● usc.edu

Fri 2/4 7 pmBehind the Scenes at the HammerJoin us for a Q&A with the Hammer team about staff roles in the museum, from curator to preparator, illuminating day-to-day life in the museum & the career trajectories that led us to our positions at the Hammer.UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood213/309-4322 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Fri 2/4 7:30 pmSacred Music at All Saints' BHChoral Evensong - The All Saints' Choir performs music of Lauridsen, Hancock, & Hoiby.All Saints’ Episcopal, 504 N Camden Dr, Beverly Hills310/275-0123 ● allsaintsbh.org

Fri 2/4 7:30 pmTheater at Rio Hondo CollegeShort scenes & monologues performed by students nominated for the Irene Ryan Awards.Black Box Theatre, Rio Hondo College, 3600 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier562/908-3492 ● riohondo.edu/arts

Fri 2/4 7:30 pmConcert at Riviera United MethodistDawn Brooks, Dan Wilson, Anastasia Glasheen, & Mark Waters, accompanied by pianists Cory Johnson & Cheryl Anne Roach, explore the music & lyrics of early Sondheim. Free-will offering.Riviera UMC, 375 Palos Verdes Blvd, Redondo Beach

310/378-9273 ● rivieraumc.com

Fri 2/4 7:30 pmAstronomy at the ObservatoryAll Space Considered: Space news & update program by Observatory Curator & staff. Griffith Observatory, Griffith Park213/473-0800 ● griffithobservatory.org

Fri 2/4 8 pm (also 2/11. 2/18. 2/25)Recital at the ColburnFriday Night Recitals feature performances by students of all ages from the School of Performing Arts, selected by their instructors.Colburn School, 200 S Grand Ave, Downtown LA213-621-1050 ● colburnschool.edu

Fri 2/4 8 pmConcert at LAHCThe South Bay Chamber Music Society presents Chamber Music Palisades, playing music of Mozart, Schubert, Novak, & Franck.Recital Hall, LA Harbor College, 1111 Figueroa Pl, Wilmington310/372-4222 ● palosverdes.com/sbcms

Fri 2/4 8 pmRecital at CalArtsGuest artist Lukas Ligeti performs an electronic percussion extravaganza.ROD Hall, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Fri 2/4 8 pm (also 2/5)Concert in ClaremontThe annual Ussachevsky Memorial Festival presents electronic & acoustic music by MaryClare Brzytwa, Karlheinz Essl, Tom Flaherty, Matthew Malsky, Frank Zappa & others.Lyman Hall, 150 E 4th St, Claremont909/607-2671 ● music.pomona.edu

Fri 2/4 8 pmMusic at CaltechAn evening with the Student Chamber Ensembles, with featured artists Christopher Kovalchick & Yousi Ma, play music of Mozart, Hindemith, & Schubert.Dabney Lounge, Caltech, 332 S Michigan Ave, Pasadena626/395-4652 ● events.caltech.edu

Fri 2/4 8 pmConcert at USCA night of solo & ensemble works from composers influenced & supported by longtime Thornton faculty member James Smith. RSVP.Alfred Newman Recital Hall, USC213/740-6474 ● usc.edu

Fri 2/4 8 pmDocumentary at the Warner GrandPBS's Independent Lens screens Daniel H Birman's "Me Facing Life: Cyntoia's Story," following the story of Cyntoia Brown, who is serving a life sentence for murder at the age of 16. RSVP onine.Warner Grand Theatre, 478 W 6th St, San Pedro310/833-4813 ● grandvision.org

Fri 2/4 8 pmConcert in Torrance"A Night in Old Vienna" The Beach Cities Symphony Orchestra, with soprano Demetra George, performs music of Strauss, Schubert, Lehar, Mozart, & Sieczynski. Preconcert talk at 7:30.Marsee Auditorium, El Camino College, 16007 Crenshaw, Torrance310/379-9725 ● beachcitiessymphony.org

Sat 2/5 7:30 amBird Walk in PasadenaMeet seasonal birds with a guide from the Audubon Society. Hahamongna Watershed Park, Foothill & Oak Grove Dr, Pasadena 818/544-5009 ● pasadenaaudubon.org

Sat 2/5 8 am (also 2/12, 2/26)Bird Walk at Dockweiler BeachWe will Look for shore birds & explore their habitat & life cycles with members of the Audubon Society. RSVP.Greystone Mansion, 905 Loma Vista Dr, Beverly Hills310/726-4128 ● laaudubon.org

Sat 2/5 8 amBird Walk at Lake CastaicSee early migratory birds along the lake with an Audubon guide. See website for directions.Meet in Lot 4, Lake Castaic Park661/257-4050 ● sfvaudubon.org

Sat 2/5 9 amNature Ramble in Franklin CanyonMeander around the lake with a naturalist & discover the lives of plants & insects. Bring a snack. RSVP. 2 hrs. Franklin Canyon Ranch, near Beverly Drive & Coldwater (call for directions)310/858-7272 ● nps.gov/samo

Sat 2/5 9 amHistory Walk in South PasadenaEasy 3-mile walk through historic neighborhoods threatened by proposed extension of the 710 Fwy, visiting historic residential & business districts. Meet SW corner of Mission & Meridian, South Pasadena626/359-5278 ● angeles.sierraclub.org/pasadena

Sat 2/5 9 amBirdwalk in Rolling Hills EstatesNaturalist Loretta Rose shows birds coming in to roost.Nature Center, 27305 Palos Verdes Dr East, RHE310/541-7613 ● pvplc.org

Sat 2/5 9:30 amWinter Walk in Cold CreekSavor a hibernal walk-about along a streamside trail through oak woodlands to a gently rolling chaparral basin below craggy sandstone peaks. RSVP. 2 hrs.Cold Creek Canyon Preserve, near Topanga & Mulholland (call for directions)818/346-9620 ● nps.gov/samo

Sat 2/5 10 amMovie Walk at Sooky GoldmanTour the sites of movie & TV productions; see how the industry affects the environment. 2 hrs. Sooky Goldman Nature Center, near Coldwater & Mulholland (call for directions)310/858-3090 ● nps.gov/samo

Sat 2/5 10 amGardening at the Hawthorne LibraryLearn how to develop an ocean friendly garden using native plants, water-efficient irrigation devices, permeable materials & on-site water retention techniques. RSVP.Library, 12700 Grevillea Ave, Hawthorne310/679-8193 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/5 10 amNature Walk in Rocky OaksA slow-paced walk for all ages. Join a ranger-led bilingual hike & learn about the local flora & fauna during this chilly season. 1 hr.Rocky Oaks, near Kanan & Mulholland (call for directions)818/758-1964 ● nps.gov/samo

Sat 2/5 10 amTour at the Alex TheatreThe historic Theatre opens its doors for a backstage tour, with an overview of the venue's 82-year history, architecture, art, restoration process & current activities & programs. RSVP.Alex Theatre, 216 N Brand Blvd, Glendale818/243-7700 ● alextheatre.org

Sat 2/5 10 am - 5:30 pmLunar New Year in AlhambraThe San Gabriel Valley celebrates the new year with a parade of colorful floats & marching bands, + food booths, arts & crafts, games, rides, entertainment, & cultural exhibits.Valley Blvd, between Garfield & Almansor, Alhambra626/395-9995 ● lunarnewyearparade.com

Sat 2/5 10:30 am - 4:30 pmFamily Festival at the HuntingtonThe Chinese New Year Family Festival promises lion dancers, shadow puppets, masks, readings, painting & Tai Chi demos, live music, flower market, scavenger hunt, & more. Free w/admission.Huntington Library, 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino626/405-2100 ● huntington.org

Sat 2/5 11 am - 1 pmBikes at SMMOATour the museum & participate in a mini-ride to learn safe riding in city streets with the guidance of Cyclists Inciting Change thru Live Exchange (C.I.C.L.E.).Santa Monica Museum of Art, Bergamot Station, 2525 Michigan Ave, SM310/586-6488 ● smmoa.org

Sat 2/5 11 am - 8 pm (also 2/6)Chinese New Year in ChinatownThe 111th Annual Golden Dragon Parade & Chinese New Year Festival has lion dancers, tournaments, cooking demos, live music & dance, Tai Chi, kids' crafts, a car show, artisan fair, coronations, & much more. Parade noon Sat; multiple night-spots host afterparties.Chinatown, Downtown LA213/617-0396 ● lagoldendragonparade.com

Sat 2/5 11:30 am, 3 pm (also 2/6, 2/19, 2/20)Artist-at-Work at the Getty VillaJoin the craftspeople of Legio VI Victrix for a live demonstration of the tools & techniques used for creating metal objects of daily use. RSVP to visit.Getty Villa, 17985 PCH, Pacific Palisades310/440-7300 ● getty.edu

Sat 2/5 12 noonMonterey at Vroman'sStephen R. Palumbi discusses "The Death & Life of Monterey Bay: A Story of Revival."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Sat 2/5 12 noon - 4 pmFestival in CerritosThe Festival of Friendship promises entertainment celebrating the many cultures of the area on 3 stages: Hawaiian, Chinese,

Korean, & Mexican dance, + Lion Dance, the International Peace Choir, flamenco dancers, & more.Los Cerritos Center, Cerritos562/916-1254 ● cerritos.us

Sat 2/5 1 pmCooking at the Hacienda Heights LibraryTheresa Lin presents a workshop with cooking tips, step-by-step demonstrations, & food tastings.16010 La Monde St, Hacienda Heights626/968-9356 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/5 1 pmOjai at SMPLSAH/SCC presents Craig Walker in a visual presentation on the architectural history of the Ojai Valley, through the vintage views in his new book, "Ojai: A Postcard History."Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Sat 2/5 1 pm (see 2/2)Moon Landings at the Observatory

Sat 2/5 1 pmEntrepreneurship at LAPLThe LA Chapter of Inventors Workshop International presents "Cashing In On Your Great Ideas: 10th Annual Funding Workshop."LA Public Library, 5th & Flower, Downtown LA213/228-7110 ● lapl.org

Sat 2/5 1 - 4 pmKids' Stuff at the PetersenDiscovery Days: Car-inspired arts & crafts, followed by actors from LA BookPALS reading stories. Free w/admission.Petersen Museum, 6060 Wilshire Blvd, Miracle Mile323/964-6347 ● petersen.org

Sat 2/5 2 pmKorea at PAMMary Connor shares the intriguing but often overlooked story of Korea's role along the historical Silk Road trade route. Free w/admission; RSVP.Pacific Asia Museum, 46 N Los Robles Ave, Pasadena626/449-2742 ● pacificasiamuseum.org

Sat 2/5 2 pmKids' Music at the Culver City LibraryCelebrate Black History Month at the library with a performance by acclaimed storyteller & traditional Kora musician Baba..Julian Dixon Library, 4975 Overland Ave, Culver City310/559-1676 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/5 2 pmTrees at Sooky GoldmanA playful, interactive program devoted to all things with woody trunks, roots, branches & leaves or needles. All ages.Sooky Goldman Nature Center, near Coldwater & Mulholland (call for directions)310/858-3090 ● nps.gov/samo

Sat 2/5 2 pm (also 2/6)Apollo at the Observatory"Carting Away Cone Crater: The Story of Apollo 14" A special talk to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Apollo flights.Griffith Observatory, Griffith Park213/473-0800 ● griffithobservatory.org

Sat 2/5 2 pmWriting at the Buena Vista Library

Coffee & Conversation with Sisters in Crime/LA looks at "Love, Marriage & Murder," with authors Hannah Dennison, Jerri Sher, Kate Carlisle, Dianne Emley, & Alan Cook.Buena Vista Branch of BPL, 300 N Buena Vista St, Burbank818/238-5620 ● BurbankLibrary.com

Sat 2/5 2 pmDocumentary at JANMBurt Takeuchi screens & discusses his film "Valor With Honor," based on interviews of Japanese American veterans who served in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team during WWII. Free w/admission.Japanese Amer. Nat’l Museum, 369 E 1st St, Little Tokyo213/625-0414 ~ janm.org

Sat 2/5 2 pmMovie at LAPLShakespeare in the Afternoon: Screening of "Richard III," directed & starring Laurence Olivier.Taper Auditorium, LA Public Library, 5th & Flower, Downtown LA213/228-7025 ● lapl.org

Sat 2/5 2 pmCanning at CAAMGo back to a time when food was prepared & stored for the winter; learn how to preserve & can vegetables & fruits. RSVP.Calif African American Museum, Exposition Park213/744-2024 ● caamuseum.org

Sat 2/5 2 pmMagic at the Duarte LibraryRenowned entertainer Tony Daniels presents an entertaining & interactive magic show, followed by a magic workshop aimed at school-age kids.Library, 1301 Buena Vista St, Duarte626/358-1865 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/5 2 pmRecital at CalArtsChristine Lanza performs original works + music by Kagel & Feldman.ROD Hall, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Sat 2/5 2 pmJazz at the San Fernando LibraryCome & hear upbeat music played by the UCLA Jazz Ensemble.Library, 217 N Maclay Ave, San Fernando818/365-6928 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/5 2 - 3 pmArt Talk at SMMOAJoin esteemed museum educator Philip Yenawine in an hour of exploration & group conversation inspired by Al Taylor’s evocative work.Santa Monica Museum of Art, Bergamot Station, 2525 Michigan Ave, SM310/586-6488 ● smmoa.org

Sat 2/5 2 - 4 pmChinese New Year in Sierra MadreKick-off event for the "One City, One Book" project, with martial arts demonstrations, lion & dragon dances, kids' crafts, & Chinese snacks.Library, 440 W Sierra Madre Blvd, Sierra Madre26/355-7186 ● sierramadre.lib.ca.us

Sat 2/5 2 - 5 pm Journalism at the Crawford Forum

Join the Society of Professional Journalists for an afternoon of networking & discussion about the hottest topic in media: hyperlocal journalism. RSVP.Crawford Family Forum, 474 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena626/583-5100 ● scpr.org

Sat 2/5 3 pmConcert at All Saints PasadenaStudent voice & instrumental recital, featuring young artists of the children's & youth choirs.All Saints Church, 132 N Euclid Ave, Pasadena626/796-1172 ● allsaints-pas.org

Sat 2/5 3 pm (also 2/6)Moon at the Observatory"The Face of the Moon" A special talk to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Apollo flights.Griffith Observatory, Griffith Park213/473-0800 ● griffithobservatory.org

Sat 2/5 3 pmBrewery Ride from Flying PigeonMeet up at the bike shop for a pleasant ride to a brewery, winery, or quality local watering hole with an emphasis on craft & micro beverages. Call or sign up for updates for start times.Flying Pigeon, 3714 N Figueroa St, Highland Park213/909-8986 ● flyingpigeon-la.com

Sat 2/5 3:30 pmDrawing at the GettyFamily Drawing Hour: Our Natural World - Explore how artists illustrate nature, then try your hand at drawing outdoors in the Central Garden. Sign up from 3 pm at Info Desk.Central Garden, Getty Center, Brentwood310/440-7300 ● getty.edu

Sat 2/5 4 pmMakeover at Book SoupDana B Myers presents "The Official Booty Parlor Mojo Makeover: Four Weeks to a Sexier You."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Sat 2/5 4 pmComposer in ClaremontThe annual Ussachevsky Memorial Festival presents a talk with composer Karlheinz Essl.Lyman Hall, 150 E 4th St, Claremont909/607-2671 ● music.pomona.edu

Sat 2/5 4 - 10:30 pmFilm Festival at USCThe Women of Cinematic Arts Film Festival is dedicated to highlighting women both behind & in front of the camera, with a selection of shorts, reception & a pre-release sneak preview of a feature-length film.George Lucas Building, USC213/740-6786 ● usc.edu

Sat 2/5 5 pmGraphic Novel at Skylight BooksJoyce Farmer, founder of the women's comix movement of the 1970's, presents her new graphic memoir "Special Exits."Skylight Books, 1818 N Vermont, Los Feliz323/660-1175 ● skylightbooks.com

Sat 2/5 5 pmSilent Hike at Charmlee

Join a contemplative walk, moving quietly through the park listening for night rustlings & nocturnal creatures. Flashlight req'd. 2 hrs. RSVP.Charmlee Natural Area, Encinal Canyon 4 miles from PCH (call for directions)310/317-1364 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/5 7 pmConcert at the Reagan LibrarySpeakers & live music from The Beach Boys, Lonestar, Lee Greenwood, Fred Thompson, Jerry West, & video tributes from George HW Bush & George W Bush. RSVP.Reagan Library, 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley800/410-8354 ● reaganfoundation.org

Sat 2/5 7:30 pmConcert at the ColburnThe Colburn Chamber Music Society melds the experience of world-renowned guest artists & distinguished faculty with the youthful passion of rising stars from the Conservatory of Music.Colburn School, 200 S Grand Ave, Downtown LA213-621-1050 ● colburnschool.edu

Sat 2/5 7:30 pmNels Cline at the Getty One of the most versatile, imaginative, & original guitarists active today brings his latest trio, the Nels Cline Singers, to the Getty along with multi-instrumentalist Yuka C. Honda of Cibo Matto. RSVP.Williams Auditorium, Getty Center, Brentwood 310/440-7300 ● getty.edu

Sat 2/5 8 pmRecital at CalArtsFrank Silva performs a mid-residency recital featuring two quartets performing original music & arrangements.ROD Hall, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Sat 2/5 8 pm (see 2/4)Concert in Claremont

Sat 2/5 8 pmRecital at CalArtsFrank Silva performs a mid-residency recital featuring two quartets performing original music & arrangements.ROD Hall, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Sun 2/6 8 amBird Walk in the Sepulveda BasinLearn to identify the birds that flock through the wildlife reserve on a walk with the Audubon Society.Sepulveda Basin, off Woodley north of Burbank, Encino818/346-6712 ● sepulvedabasinwildlife.org

Sun 2/6 8 amBird Walk in TopangaBuffs & beginners can discover the ways of the birds; bring water & a snack. 3 hrs.Topanga State Park, off Entrada from Topanga (call for directions)310/455-1401 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/6 9 amHike at Sooky GoldmanA moderately difficult hike covering the canyon from top to bottom; learn canyon history & habitat along the way. 2 hrs.

Sooky Goldman Nature Center, near Coldwater & Mulholland (call for directions)310/858-3090 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/6 10 amWinter Walk at CharmleeJoin a naturalist-led hike through the meadow & oak groves in search of tracks, winter birds, & earliest winter wildflowers. RSVP.Charmlee Natural Area, Encinal Canyon 4 miles from PCH (call for directions)310/317-1364 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/6 10 amCelebration at the Reagan LibraryTo honor President Reagan's centennial birthday, F-18 flyover, keynote remarks by James Baker, a ceremony with color guard, chaplain, brass quintet, 21-gun salute, & the placing of a wreath. Call to verify if free.Reagan Library, 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley800/410-8354 ● reaganfoundation.org

Sun 2/6 10 amArt & Nature at Sooky GoldmanStroll around the lake & create nature-inspired works of art at the nature center. 2 hrs.Sooky Goldman Nature Center, near Coldwater & Mulholland (call for directions)310/858-3090 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/6 10 am - 12 noon & 1 - 3 pmNative Culture at SatwiwaCelebrate Native American arts by creating round reed baskets with Hupa artist, storyteller & astronomer Kat High.Satwiwa Native American Center, Via Goleta, Lynn Rd 5 miles S of 101 (call for directions)805/370-2301 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/6 10 am - 1 pmMusic in SMTake a break from shopping the market for live music from Paul Chesne.Farmers Market, 2640 Main St, Santa Monica310/458-8712 ● farmersmarket.santa-monica.org

Sun 2/6 11 am – 1 pm (also 2/13, 2/20, 2/27)Family Arts at LACMAFashion Runway: Arts workshops & gallery activities inspired by the museum's collections. Free w/admission (kids always free). LA County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire, Miracle Mile 323/857-6010 ● lacma.org

Sun 2/6 11 am - 5 pmFamily Festival at the AutryAmerican Indian Culture Day: A day of Native American culture, with stories, tours, carts, games, & live music. Free w/admission. Museum of the Amer West, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park323/667-2000 ● autry-museum.org

Sun 2/6 11 am - 5 pmCulture at CAAMBlack History Month Celebration: A very full day of music, poetry, visual art, film, dance, spoken word, art, & more, by artists from many backgrounds & cultures.Calif African American Museum, Exposition Park213/744-7680 ● caamuseum.org

Sun 2/6 11 am - 6 pm (see 2/5)Chinese New Year in Chinatown

Sun 2/6 11:30 am, 3 pm (see 2/5)Artist-at-Work at the Getty Villa

Sun 2/6 12 noonWorkshop at the HammerFor kids 8-13: Animator Lucas Gray leads a workshop on "Animated Writing: Character Sketches." RSVP.UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood310/305-8418 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Sun 2/6 12 - 4 pmBluegrass at El Camino CollegeJoin an open & outdoors bluegrass jam. Call to verify.El Camino College, 16007 Crenshaw Blvd, Torrance310/534-1439 ● socalbluegrass.org

Sun 2/6 1 pm (also 2/13, 2/20, 2/27)Winter Walk in Topanga State ParkJoin a docent naturalist to discover winter signposts on a 2-hr walk.Topanga State Park, off Entrada from Topanga (call for directions)213/387-4287 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/6 1 pm (see 2/2)Moon Landings at the Observatory

Sun 2/6 1 pmGarden Tour at UCLAVisit the Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden, a living museum with c. 4,000 species of tropical & sub-tropical plants from around the world. Call to verify.Botanical Garden, UCLA310/ 206-3887 ● botgard.ucla.edu

Sun 2/6 1, 2, 3, & 4 pm (also 2/20)History Tour at Rancho Los CerritosTour the 165-year-old adobe house with "visitors from the past" who step forward in time to conduct tours of the Rancho. RSVP.Rancho Los Cerritos, 4600 Virginia Rd, Long Beach562/570-1755 ● rancholoscerritos.org

Sun 2/6 1 - 3 pm (also 2/20)Artist-at-Work at the GettyDrop by as photographer Luther Gerlach demonstrates how to create hand-colored prints using historic processes & authentic 19th-century cameras & glass negatives.Museum Studios, Getty Center, Brentwood310/440-7300 ● getty.edu

Sun 2/6 1 - 3:30 pmFamily Art at MOCASunday Studio: Join a tour of a selection of works from MOCA's permanent collection, followed by a workshop with former Joffrey Ballet dancer, Leslie Carothers-Aromaa.Museum of Contemporary Art, 250 S Grand Ave, Downtown LA213/621-1765 ● moca.org

Sun 2/6 1 - 4 pmJam Session at CTMSThe Calif Traditional Music Society hosts an old time jam session - break out your instruments or just enjoy. CTMS Center, 16953 Ventura Blvd, Encino818/817-7756 ● ctmsfolkmusic.org

Sun 2/6 1 - 4 pmDrawing at LACEArtists Michael Carter, Alison Rash, & Sean Sullivan lead free drawing classes & conversations about the urban environment for all levels & ages.LA Contemporary Exhibitions, 6522 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood

323/957-1777 ● welcometolace.org

Sun 2/6 2 pmConcert at the Nixon Library: Violinist Drew TretickNixon Library, 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd, Yorba Linda714/993-5075 ● nixonlibraryfoundation.org

Sun 2/6 2 pmAuthors On Asia at PAMLouise Su Tang discusses her new book "Cantonese Yankee." Free w/admission; RSVP.Pacific Asia Museum, 46 N Los Robles Ave, Pasadena626/449-2742 ● pacificasiamuseum.org

Sun 2/6 2 pmConcert at CLUKyle Johnson presents his 1st faculty organ recital as Coordinator of Chapel Music, University Organist & music lecturer.Samuelson Chapel, Cal Lutheran U, 60 W Olsen Rd, Thousand Oaks805/493-3306 ● clunet.edu

Sun 2/6 2 pmDocumentary at JANMScreening & discussing of the film "Hibakusha: Our Life to Live," a film about the survivors of the atomic bomb attacks on Hiroshima & Nagasaki by David Rothauser. Free w/admission.Japanese Amer. Nat’l Museum, 369 E 1st St, Little Tokyo213/625-0414 ~ janm.org

Sun 2/6 2 pmOwls at G2 Gallery Stacey O'Brien, author of NY Times bestseller "Wesley the Owl," tells about her experience with Wesley & brings in a live barn owl.G2 Gallery, 1503 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice 310/452-2842 ● theg2gallery.com

Sun 2/6 2 pmArtist Talk at the HammerPaul Sietsema leads a walkthrough of the new exhibition "All of this & nothing," the 6th in the Hammer’s biennial invitational exhibition series. Free w/admission.UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood213/309-4322 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Sun 2/6 2 pm (see 2/5)Apollo at the Observatory

Sun 2/6 2 pmConcert at LAVCMusicians from the Kadima Conservatory play their Winter Recital.Music Bldg, LA Valley College, 5800 Fulton Ave, Valley Village818/780-9596 ● kadimaconservatory.com

Sun 2/6 2 pmAfrican American History at CAAMKwaku Person-Lynn gives a presentation on "Afrikan World Civilizations," highlighting accomplishments of the African Diaspora. RSVP.Calif African American Museum, Exposition Park213/744-2024 ● caamuseum.org

Sun 2/6 2 pmArchaeology at LACMAFilmmaker, film theorist & professor Aparna Sharma presents "Listening to the Courtesan — The Soundscapes of Pakeezah."LA County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire, Miracle Mile 323/857-6512 ● lacma.org

Sun 2/6 2 pmPerformance at Machine ProjectA tuba duo, clarinet duo, accordion duo & violin duo perform their favorite 2-minute works written expressly for Machine's recent Little William Festival at the Hammer.Machine Project, 1200 D N Alvarado St, LA213/483-8761 ● machineproject.com

Sun 2/6 2 - 3:30 pmDrawing at the Tribal CaféArtist Votan Henriquez discusses his art work, “Movement,” & leads a drawing workshop. Part of CAFAM's Folk Art Everywhere project.Tribal Café, 1651 W Temple, Echo Park323/937-4230 ● folkarteverywhere.com

Sun 2/6 2 - 4 pmFamily Arts at BarnsdallFree art workshops on arts & crafts from world cultures, led by artists. Today, USA: Native American: Dreamcatchers with Marta Feinstein.Junior Art Center, Barnsdal: Art Park, 4800 Hollywood Blvd, LA323/644-6275 ● barnsdall.org

Sun 2/6 3 pmConcert in Rancho Palos VerdesThe South Bay Chamber Music Society presents Chamber Music Palisades, playing music of Mozart, Schubert, Novak, & Franck.Pacific Unitarian Church, 5621 Montemalaga, Rancho PV310/372-4222 ● palosverdes.com/sbcms

Sun 2/6 3 pm (see 2/5)Moon at the Observatory

Sun 2/6 3 pmMovies at USCOutside the Box (Office) screens "Carbon Nation," an optimistic discovery of what people are doing, could be doing, & need to do to prevent (or slow down) the impending climate crisis. RSVP.Ray Stark Theatre, USC213/740-2330 ● cinema.usc.edu

Sun 2/6 3:30 pm (also 2/20)Drawing at the GettyBring pads & pencils & enjoy the tradition of sketching from original works of art with the help of artist Stas Orlovski. Sign up from 2:30 pm at Info Desk.Getty Center, Brentwood310/440-7300 ● getty.edu

Sun 2/6 4 pmMakeover at Book SoupLonely Christopher reads from his story collection "The Mechanics of Homosexual Intercourse" with special guest Joseph Mattson reading from Matthew Stokoe's "Cows" & host Dennis Cooper.Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Sun 2/6 5 pmPoetry at Beyond BaroqueMarie Lecrivain hosts Mick Terry & Elena Secota, + open reading.Beyond Baroque, 681 Venice Blvd, venice310/922-3006 ● beyondbaroque.org

Sun 2/6 6 pm Concert at LACMAIn celebration of the Bicentennial of Liszt’s birth in 1811, Cellist Guido Schiefen & pianist Eric Levan perform the complete cello / piano works.

Bing Theater, LA County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire, Miracle Mile323/857-6234 ● sundayslive.org

Sun 2/6 6 pmMovies at USCSCA Alumni Screening Series screens Adrian Belic's new feature "Beyond the Call," followed by a Q&A with the director. RSVP.George Lucas Building 112, USC213/740-2330 ● cinema.usc.edu

Sun 2/6 7:30 pmConcert in Pacific PalisadesThe Palisades Symphony, conducted by Joel B Lish, performs an All-Mozart concert.Pali High, 15777 Bowdoin St, Pac Pal310/454-8040 ● palisadessymphony.org

Sun 2/6 8 pmRecital at CalArtsA musical performance by Matt Kolodziejczyk, featuring the group's Circle K Trio & the Special K Quartet.ROD Hall, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Mon 2/7 10 amCelebration at the Reagan LibraryBe the first to visit the completely renovated Reagan Museum, with birthday cake for the Gipper's 100th birthday. Call to verify if free.Reagan Library, 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley800/410-8354 ● reaganfoundation.org

Mon 2/7 12 noonMedia at USCAnne Balsamo presents materials from her forthcoming transmedia book "Designing Culture: The Technological Imagination at Work."Annenberg School 207, USC213/821-3015 ● usc.edu

Mon 2/7 12 noon - 2 pmJewish Studies at UCLAAvinoam J Patt speaks on "From Destruction to Rebirth: The Holocaust & the Creation of the State of Israel, a Reassessment." RSVP & verify location. 193 Humanities, UCLA310/267-5327 ● cjs.ucla.edu

Mon 2/7 2 pmMovies at the Montana LibraryClassic Film Series: Screening of Hitchcock's "Strangers on a Train," followed by a talk with film scholar Vivian Rosenberg.Montana Branch of SMPL, 1704 Montana, Santa Monica310/829-7081 ● smpl.org

Mon 2/7 2:45 pmBrain at Cal LutheranRobert Liberman presentz “The Social Brain: How We Can Use It In Health & Disease.”Swenson Center 102, Cal Lutheran U, 60 W Olsen Rd, Thousand Oaks805/493-3015 ● clunet.edu

Mon 2/7 4:30 pmBlack Culture at CSULA

Michael Dumas presents "Imagining Black Boyhoods," a talk about the absence of Black boys in the public imagination of childhood & how kids are affected.U-SU, LA Room AB, Cal State Univ, 5151 State University Dr, LA323/343-4040 ● calstatela.edu

Mon 2/7 5 pmJihad at USCGhada Osman speaks on "What Is Jihad? Peace & War in the Muslim Tradition."Davidson Conference Center, USC213/740-1864 ● usc.edu

Mon 2/7 5:30 pmNewt at the Reagan LibraryFormer Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich & his wife Callista sign copies of their new photo book, "Ronald Reagan: Rendezvous with Destiny." RSVP.Reagan Library, 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley800/410-8354 ● reaganfoundation.org

Mon 2/7 6 pmMemoir at BN at the GroveRee Drummond presents "The Pioneer Woman: Black Heels to Tractor Wheels--A Love Story."Barnes & Noble, The Grove at Farmers Market, 3rd & Fairfax, LA323/525-0270 ● bn.com

Mon 2/7 6 pmMovie at the Monrovia LibraryRoad to the Oscars: Screening of an award-winning or nominated film of the Golden Globes & the Oscars; call for title.Monrovia Public Library, 321 S Myrtle Ave, Monrovia626/256-8274 ● cityofmonrovia.org

Mon 2/7 6 pmYouth Filmmakers at SMPLSee films by selected SM Teen Film Fest winners from the past 5 years, & learn how to enter this year's festival.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Mon 2/7 6:30 pmArtist Talk at the Beach HouseConceptual artist Allen Ruppersberg & photographer Diane Meyer, awardees of the 2011 Santa Monica Artist Fellowship program, discuss their inspiring & provocative projects. RSVP.Annenberg Beach House, 415 PCH, Santa Monica310/458-4904 ● beachhouse.smgov.net

Mon 2/7 6:30 pmArchitecture Talk at UCLABeyond The Fringe: Francois Roche talks about his work with R&Sie(n) of Paris.1302 Perloff Hall (Decafé), UCLA310/267-4704 ● aud.ucla.edu

Mon 2/7 7 pmSwing at Book SoupSteven Beasley discusses "Kay Kyser: The 'Ol Professor of Swing."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Mon 2/7 7 pmArtist Talk at LACMACurators Franklin Sirmans & Leslie Jones talk with artists about their about their favorite books. Artists include Andrea Bowers, Francesca Gabbiani, Alexandra Grant, Julian Hoeber, Dave Muller, & Mungo Thomson.

LA County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire, Miracle Mile 323/857-6512 ● lacma.org

Mon 2/7 7 pmAuthors & Artists at Vroman'sGroup event for the new small press What Books Press, featuring Gronk, Chuck Rosenthal, Ramon Garcia, Gail Wronsky, & Karen Kevorkian. Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Mon 2/7 7 pmArchaeology at the Getty VillaMehmet Cuhadar provides a historical overview of Ephesus, with a focus on recent discoveries & the great monuments at the site, one of the most important Hellenistic & Roman cities in Asia Minor. RSVP.Getty Villa, 17985 PCH, Pacific Palisades310/440-7300 ● getty.edu

Mon 2/7 7 pmDesign Talk at USCDigital Studies Symposium presents a conversation with the collaborative architectural team Design, Bitches.Broccoli Theatre (SCA 112), USC213/740-2330 ● cinema.usc.edu

Mon 2/7 7:30 pmBluegrass in Culver CityJoin the new Westside Jam - for all skills levels.Industry Cafe, 3069 Washington Blvd, Culver City310/390-4391 ● socalbluegrass.org

Mon 2/7 7:30 pmTravel Talk at Distant Lands“Wander the Rainbow” David Jedeikin talks about his 7-month trip around the world. RSVP.Distant Lands, 56 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena626/449-3220 ● distantlands.com

Mon 2/7 7:30 pmHypocrisy at the Actors' GangZócalo Public Square presents psychology professor Robert Kurzban, talking about whether hypocrisy part of human nature. RSVP.The Actors' Gang, 9070 Venice Blvd, Culver Cityzocalopublicsquare.org

Mon 2/7 8 pmRecital at CalArtsLars Panaro performs on solo classical guitar; Trevor Gabriel plays acoustic & electric guitars with bands.ROD Hall, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Tue 2/8 11 amArtist Talk at OtisFine Arts presents a lecture by artist Steve Roden.Forum, Otis College, 9045 Lincoln, Westchester310/665-6827 ● otis.edu

Tue 2/8 12 noonArt Conservation at Scripps CollegeThomas JS Learner presents "The Conservation of Modern & Contemporary Art: Issues, Challenges, & Current Research at the Getty Conservation Institute."Malott Commons, Scripps College, 1030 Columbia Ave, Claremont

909/607-4690 ● scrippscollege.edu

Tue 2/8 12 noonJournalism at USCEduardo Hauser, CEO of DailyMe.com, addresses the changing relationship between news providers & their audiences, & how sites can develop winning strategies for the future. RSVP online.Annenberg School 207, USC213/821-3015 ● usc.edu

Tue 2/8 1:30 pmClassic Movies at the SkirballScenes from a Crazy World: Screening of Jacques Tati's classic 1958 film "My Uncle" (Mon Uncle).Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda, West LA310/440-4500 ● skirball.org

Tue 2/8 2 pmMovies at GPL: The Frisco Kid (1979)Central Library, 222 E Harvard St, Glendale818/548-2042 ● library.ci.glendale.ca.us

Tue 2/8 3:15 pmFilm at CSULAThe Asian Pacific Islander Student Resource Center screens "Mississippi Masala."U-SU, 2nd floor, Cal State Univ, 5151 State University Dr, LA323/343-5001 ● calstatela.edu

Tue 2/8 4 pmMagic at the Bellflower LibraryFor kids: Conjurer Tony Daniels presents an entertaining & interactive magic show, followed by a magic workshop aimed at school-age kids.Brakensiek Library, 9945 E Flower St, Bellflower562/925-5543 ● colapublib.org

Tue 2/8 4 pmTeen Movie at the Panorama City LibraryJust for Teens screens Orson Welles' classic "Touch of Evil."Panorama City Branch of LAPL, 14345 Roscoe Blvd, Panorama City818/894-4071 ● .lapl.org

Tue 2/8 6 pmFeng Shui at the Playa Vista LibraryMichael White-Ryan & Pamela Edwards help you discover the energetic benefits of personalising Feng Shui.Playa Vista Branch of LAPL, 6400 Playa Vista Dr, LA310/437-6680 ● lapl.org

Tue 2/8 6 pmMagic at the El Monte LibraryFor kids: Conjurer Tony Daniels presents an entertaining & interactive magic show, followed by a magic workshop aimed at school-age kids.Library, 3224 Tyler Ave, El Monte626/444-9506 ● colapublib.org

Tue 2/8 6 pmAstronomy at the Sunland LibraryFor teens: Join the Sidewalk Astronomers for stargazing, moon watching, & sidewalk chats about our cosmos.Sunland Branch of LAPL, 7771 Foothill Blvd, Tujunga 818/352-4481 ● lapl.org

Tue 2/8 6 pmDesign Talk at UCLA

LA-based artist Geoff McFetridge, founder of the skateboard company Solitary Arts + a wallpaper & fabric company, talks about his work.Broad Arts Center, EDA, UCLA310/825-9007 ● dma.ucla.edu

Tue 2/8 6:30 pmFashion at the Alhambra LibraryFIDM Museum curator Kevin Jones discusses 20th fashion.Civic Center Library, 101 S 1st St, Alhambra626/570-5008 ● alhambralibrary.org

Tue 2/8 6:30 - 9 pmMardi Gras at CSULACelebrate New Orleans-style with comedy improv pros the Upright Citizens Brigade Touring, student musicians, live Zydeco, a drag show, tatoos, drawings, & more.U-SU, Cal State Univ, 5151 State University Dr, LA323/343-5110 ● calstatela.edu

Tue 2/8 7 pmTwain at the HammerCelebrate the publication of Mark Twain’s autobiography with Twain scholar & editor of the project Robert Hirst, actor Hal Holbrook, & litterateur David Kipen, + live music from The Americans. Tix avail. fron 6 pm.UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood213/309-4322 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Tue 2/8 7:30 pmPlant Talk in Santa MonicaBart O'Brien Katy Delaney & Seth Riley speak on "Habitat Fragmentation in the Simi Hills" for the Calif. Native Plants Society.1st United Meth Church, 1008 11th St, Santa Monica818/881-3706 ● lacnps.org

Tue 2/8 6:45 pmOpera Talk at the Platt LibraryThe LA Opera League presents a talk on Benjamin Britten's "The Turn of the Screw."Platt Branch of LAPL, 23600 Victory Blvd, WH818/340-9386 ● lapl.org

Tue 2/8 7 pmConcert at PPLSuezenne Fordham Chamber Jazz LA presents the "New Orbit Series."Library, 285 E Walnut St, Pasadena626/744-4052 ● ci.pasadena.ca.us/library

Tue 2/8 7 pmAuthor at Vroman'sPG Sturges reads his new novel "Shortcut Man."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Tue 2/8 7 pmConflicts at the Fairview LibraryAttorney/mediator Diana Mercer offers sensible advice on how to resolve differences in any situation in a fun & thought-provoking presentation.Fairview Branch of SMPL, 2101 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica310/450-0443 ● smpl.org

Tue 2/8 7 pmGreen Films at Pomona CollegeScreening of the documentary "Green, Green Water," as part of People | Places | Spaces - the Sustainability Film Festival.Rose Hills Theater, Pomona College, 170 E 6th St, Claremont

909/621-8283 ● pomona.edu/museum

Tue 2/8 7 pmArt Direction at Book SoupDan Dunn presents "Living Loaded: Tales of Sex, Salvation, & the Pursuit of the Never-Ending Happy Hour."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Tue 2/8 7 pmYoga at the San Marino LibraryJanell Jorda leads an introduction to Laughter Yoga, a combination of simple, tension-releasing exercises & gentle yoga breathing techniques which help bring more oxygen to the brain. Crowell Library, 1890 Huntington Dr, San Marino626/300-0777 ● sanmarinopl.org

Tue 2/8 7 pmFilm at USCTheodore Thomas & Kuniko Okubo screen their documentary "Walt & El Grupo," about Disney's WWII trip as cultural ambassador to South America. RSVP.Ray Stark Family Theatre, USC213/821-3015 ● usc.edu

Tue 2/8 7 pmErwin Chemerinsky at LAPLAloud presents the well-known attorney in conversation with California Attorney General John Eastman on "Is There a Conservative Assault on the Supreme Court?" RSVP.Taper Auditorium, LA Public Library, 5th & Flower, Downtown LA213/228-7025 ● lapl.org

Tue 2/8 7:30 pmAdvice at BN at the GroveBrooke Burke presents "The Naked Mom: A Modern Mom's Fearless Revelations, Sawy Advice, & Soulful Reflections."Barnes & Noble, The Grove at Farmers Market, 3rd & Fairfax, LA323/525-0270 ● bn.com

Tue 2/8 7:30 pmTravel Talk in MontroseWorld Travelers Fred Dong & Stephanie Gross give a slide presentation on the natural wonders of Patagonia for the Sierra Club.Library, 2809 Foothill Blvd, La Crescenta818/545-3878 ● angeles.sierraclub.org/crescenta

Tue 2/8 7:30 pmAuthor at USCDeborah Harkness discusses her new novel "A Discovery of Witches," in which a historian’s perusal of an old manuscript brings unwanted magic into a carefully ordinary life.Doheny Memorial Library, USC213/740-6786 ● usc.edu

Tue 2/8 8 pmPoetry in RB: E. Amato + open readingCoffee Cartel, 1820 S Catalina Ave, Redondo Beach310/316-6554 ● redondopoets.com

Tue 2/8 8 pm Online Media at the Crawford Forum#pubmedialive!: Integrity vs. Page Views - Join KPCC & partner KCET for a discussion about the struggles currently facing public media bloggers. RSVP.Crawford Family Forum, 474 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena626/583-5100 ● scpr.org

Tue 2/8 9 pm

Poetry at the Cobalt: Eric Morago + open readingCobalt Café, 22047 Sherman Way, Canoga Park818/348-3789 ● poetrysuperhighway.com/cobalt

Wed 2/9 12 noonConcert at 1st UMC SMA short midweek recital from organist Charles Echols.1st United Methodist, 1008 11th St, Santa Monica310/393-8258 ● santamonicaumc.org

Wed 2/9 12 noonConcert at Pasadena PresbyterianA lunchtime concert from Margaret Thornhill on clarinet & Twyla Meyer on piano.Pasadena Presb. Church, 585 E. Colorado Bl, Pasadena626/793-2191 ● ppc.net

Wed 2/9 12:30 pmArt Talk at the HammerA lunchtime chat focused on one artwork; today, selected works from Fernando Ortega's works in "All of this & nothing, 2004-2010."UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood310/443-7000 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Wed 2/9 1 pmRomantic Movies at PPL"August Rush" (2007), with Keri Russell & Jonathan Rhys Meyers.Library, 285 E Walnut St, Pasadena626/744-4052 ● ci.pasadena.ca.us/library

Wed 2/9 1 pm Homeschooling at the Crawford ForumKPCC's AirTalk presents a discussion on the rise of homeschooling, with experts, teachers, & students. RSVP.Crawford Family Forum, 474 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena626/583-5100 ● scpr.org

Wed 2/9 1 - 5 pm (also 7 pm, 2/11, 2/12)Korea at UCLAThe 10th Annual Korea Music Symposium focuses on the "Songs of Korea."Gamelan Room, Schoenberg Building, UCLA310/825-3686 ● international.ucla.edu

Wed 2/9 3 pmCondoleezza Rice at PepperdineThe former Secretary of State speaks on "Foreign Policy in a Post-9/11 World." Sold out, but waiting list avail.School of Law, Pepperdine University, 24255 PCH, Malibu310/506-6589 ● pepperdine.edu

Wed 2/9 3:15 pmDocumentary at CSULAThe Pan African Student Resource Center screens part I of "Rise & Fall of Jim Crow."U-SU, 2nd floor, Cal State Univ, 5151 State University Dr, LA323/343-5001 ● calstatela.edu

Wed 2/9 3:30 pmBalloons at the La Puente LibraryFor kids: Annie Banannie's Balloon Comedy Show, mixing comedy & storytelling with amazing balloon twisting.Sunkist Library, 840 N Puente Ave, La Puente626/960-2707 ● colapublib.org

Wed 2/9 4 pmChinese New Year at the Manhattan Beach Library

For kids: Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit in a special presentation & storytime with kids' author Oliver Chen.Library, 1320 Highland Ave, Manhattan Beach310/545-8595 ● colapublib.org

Wed 2/9 4 - 5 pmValentines at the East Rancho Dominguez LibraryFor teens: Design Valentine's Day cards & create kisses bouquets while learning about the origins of Valentine's Day. RSVP.Library, 4205 E Compton Blvd, East Rancho Dominguez 310/632-6193 ● colapublib.org

Wed 2/9 4:30 pmArtist Talk in ClaremontClaremont Grad University hosts a conversation with visiting artist Allison Schulnik.Albrecht Auditorium, 925 N Dartmouth St, Claremont909/621-8612 ● cgu.edu/art

Wed 2/9 5 pmHealth at USCKirk Smith speaks on "Combustion Particles & Global Health: Cooking, Smoking & Climate." RSVP.Davidson Conference Center, USC323/865-0419 ● usc.edu

Wed 2/9 5 pmEmotions at USCAntonio Damasio joins award-winning NY Times columnist David Brooks in a discussion of emotions & the science of being human. RSVP.Doheny Memorial Library, USC323/740-8747 ● usc.edu

Wed 2/9 6 pmHistory at Tia Chucha'sPhotographer & author Valena Broussard Dismukes speaks about "500 Years of Red-Black History."Tia Chucha's, 13197 Gladstone Ave, Sylmar818/528-4511 ● tiachucha.com

Wed 2/9 6 pmForeign Films at the Arcadia LibraryBring dinner; dessert provided, for a screening of “Life is Beautiful” (Italy, 1998).Library, 20 W Duarte Rd, Arcadia626/821-5572 ● ci.arcadia.ca.us

Wed 2/9 6 pmArchitecture Talk at USCProminent architect Lorcan O’Herlihy talks about his work. Gin D. Wong Auditorium, USC213/740-2787 ● usc.edu

Wed 2/9 6:15 - 9 pmMaps at CSULAPanel discussion on "Changing Boundaries: Historic Maps of the US-Mexico Border," to complement the current exhibition. Reception follows.U-SU Theater, Cal State Univ, 5151 State University Dr, LA323/343-4040 ● calstatela.edu

Wed 2/9 6:30 pmMagic at the La Puente LibraryFor kids: Prepare to be astonished! Rafael & Katia take the audience on a magical ride into magic, books & culture.Sunkist Library, 840 N Puente Ave, La Puente626/960-2707 ● colapublib.org

Wed 2/9 6:30 pm

Lincoln at the Monrovia Library"Let's Talk Lincoln" Philip Ostergard brings to life history & insights about our 16th President in honor of his birthday.Monrovia Public Library, 321 S Myrtle Ave, Monrovia626/256-8274 ● cityofmonrovia.org

Wed 2/9 7 pmParenting at Vroman'sCliques, Conflicts, Connection: Psychologist Melissa Johnson leads a workshop on the social world of kids.Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Wed 2/9 7 pmSustainability at SMPLGreen Living Workshop: Part 6 of 6 sessions on simple steps that preserve the environmentand save you money. RSVP online.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Wed 2/9 7 pmBrazil at OccidentalBrazilian artist, composer, & theater director Octavio Camargo speaks on "Site Specificity & Urban Interventionism in Brazil."Clapp Library, Occidental College, 1600 Campus Rd, Eagle Rock323/259-3649 ● oxy.edu

Wed 2/9 7 pmSilent Film at the Buena Vista LibraryScreening of Buster Keaton's 1926 silent masterpiece "The General," with live accompaniment from Michael Mortilla.Buena Vista Branch of BPL, 300 N Buena Vista St, Burbank818/238-5620 ● BurbankLibrary.com

Wed 2/9 7 pmDocumentary at CLUReel Justice Film Series screens "The Dark Side of Chocolate," about allegations of trafficking of children & child labor in the international chocolate industry.Roth Nelson Room, Cal Lutheran U, 60 W Olsen Rd, Thousand Oaks805/493-3693 ● clunet.edu

Wed 2/9 7 pm (see also 1 pm, 2/11, 2/12)Korea at UCLAThe 10th Annual Korea Music Symposium hosts a concert of "Songs of Korea."Gamelan Room, Schoenberg Building, UCLA310/825-3686 ● international.ucla.edu

Wed 2/9 7 pmMovies at USCOutside the Box (Office) screens 1990 Academy Award winner "Journey of Hope," tackling the problem of migrations from the peripheries of Europe to the West. RSVP.Ray Stark Theatre, USC213/740-2330 ● cinema.usc.edu

Wed 2/9 7 pmScreenwriting at LMUEntertainment industry panelists author Ben Mezrich, producer Todd Lieberman, director Doug Liman, attorney Jay Dougherty, screenwriter Nicholas Kazan, columnist Patrick Goldstein, & editor Kim Masters discuss "Truth & Fiction on Screen."Hilton 100, Loyola Marymount, 1 LMU Drive, Westchester310/338-7647 ● lmu.edu

Wed 2/9 7 pmIntellectual Property at Pomona College

Writer Jonathan Lethem, law professor Doug Lichtman, & Creative Commons CEO Joichi Ito discuss "Ownership in the Age of the Mash-Up."Rose Hills Theater, Pomona College, 170 E 6th St, Claremont909/607-3070 ● pomona.edu/museum

Wed 2/9 7 pmMichael Pollan at USCBest-selling authors Michael Pollan & Eric Schlosser talk about the industrialization of food & its devastating impact on personal health & the environment. RSVP online.Bovard Auditorium, USC213/740-6786 ● usc.edu

Wed 2/9 7 - 9 pmArtist Talk at Liz's LoftArt Curtis & Shelley Adler, life partners for 30 years, talk about their separate work, currently on exhibit.Liz's Loft, 453 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles323/939-4403 ● lahardware.com

Wed 2/9 7:30 pmBirds at Plummer ParkGuy Commeau presents "Birding California - Part 2" for the monthly LA Audubon meeting. Plummer Park, 7377 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hwd323/876-0202 ● laaudubon.org

Wed 2/9 7:30 pmPoetry at OtisGraduate Writing presents a reading by poets Laynie Browne & Joe Ross. Forum, Otis College, 9045 Lincoln, Westchester310/665-6892 ● otis.edu

Wed 2/9 7:30 pmPoetry at Cal LutheranPrize-winning Christopher Howell, a military journalist during the Vietnam War, reads from his 9 collections of poems. Lundring Center, Cal Lutheran U, 60 W Olsen Rd, Thousand Oaks805/493-3951 ● clunet.edu

Wed 2/9 7:30 pmArgentinian Film at UCLAScreening of "La sangre y la lluvia" (Blood & Rain), directed by Jorge Navas.Melnitz/James Bridges Theater, UCLA310/825-4811 ● international.ucla.edu

Wed 2/9 7:30 pmVideo Games at the PetersenZócalo Public Square presents game designer Jane McGonigal, talking with Ze Frank about "Can Video Games Save the World?" RSVP.Petersen Museum, 6060 Wilshire Blvd, Miracle Milezocalopublicsquare.org

Wed 2/9 8 pmAstronomy at CaltechWatson Lecture: Andrew P. Ingersoll speaks on "Encediadus: The Hottest Little Moon in the Solar System."Beckman Auditorium, Caltech, 332 S Michigan Ave, Pasadena626/395-4652 ● events.caltech.edu

Thu 2/10 11 am (also 2/17, 2/24)Music at the Colburn

Performance Forum: Solo & chamber music performances by Conservatory students, the stars of tomorrow.Colburn School, 200 S Grand Ave, Downtown LA213-621-1050 ● colburnschool.edu

Thu 2/10 11 amArtist Talk at Otis El SegundoGraduate Fine Arts presents a lecture by artist Paul McCarthy.Otis Grad Studios, 1550 E Franklin Ave, El Segundo310/665-6892 ● otis.edu

Thu 2/10 12 noonWomen's Studies at UCLANoted feminist scholar & activist, doing work on contemporary India, speaks on "Once Upon a Time in the Present." Call for exact location.Royce Hall 314?, UCLA310/825-0590 ● women.ucla.edu/csw

Thu 2/10 12 noon (see 2/3)Organ Recital at FCC

Thu 2/10 12 noonHolocaust at UCLALily Hirsch presents her book "A Jewish Orchestra in Nazi Germany: Musical Politics & the Berlin Jewish Culture League."Bunche Hall 10383, UCLA310/825-4811 ● international.ucla.edu

Thu 2/10 12:30 pmGallery Talk at LACMAMary Lenihan leads a one-hour facilitated gallery discussion focusing on ancient art in the permanent collection. Free w/admission.LA County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire, Miracle Mile 323/857-6512 ● lacma.org

Thu 2/10 2 pmMovie at the NoHo LibraryScreening of the 1967 Best Picture "In the Heat Of the Night," for Black History Month. North Hollywood Branch of LAPL, 5211 Tujunga Ave, NH818/766-7185 ● lapl.org

Thu 2/10 2 - 9 pmArt Walk in Downtown LAA monthly, self-guided tour & open house for 40+ art venues in Downtown LA, incl. commercial galleries, museums, & non-profit spaces, with openings & music in many. 213/842-8574 ● downtownartwalk.com

Thu 2/10 2:30 pmGarden Talk at the HuntingtonBob Perry discusses concepts & principles of garden design with an emphasis on sustainability. Plant sale follows.Huntington Library, 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino626/405-2100 ● huntington.org

Thu 2/10 4 pmWorld Politics at USCThomas Bernstein speaks on "Varieties of Authoritarianism: Comparing China & Russia." RSVP.Davidson Conference Center, USC323/821-4382 ● usc.edu

Thu 2/10 4 - 5 pmPoetry at PepperdinePEN-award winning poet Jerome Rothenberg reads his poem, “Poland/1931” in front of the “Traces of Memory” photographs.

James Irvine Reading Room, Pepperdine University, 24255 PCH, Malibu310/506-6589 ● pepperdine.edu

Thu 2/10 5 pmJewish Studies at UCLAAuthor & food critic Mimi Sheraton speaks on "Not by Bialys Alone: Iconic Foods of Ashkenazic Jews." RSVP. Faculty Center, UCLA310/267-5327 ● cjs.ucla.edu

Thu 2/10 5 pmWomen's History at USCElizabeth A Clark speaks on "Women & the Family in the 19th C. Protestant Imaginary: Between Ascetic Renunciation & the Women's Movement." RSVP.University Club, USC323/740-8562 ● usc.edu

Thu 2/10 5 pmOffbeat Movies at UCLAThe Crank presents films that should, or can only, be seen on the big screen: "Sammy Going South, aka A Boy 10 Feet Tall" (1963).Melnitz Hall J. Bridges Theater, UCLA213/309-4322 ● http://thecrankblog.wordpress.com

Thu 2/10 5:30 pmEducation at Scripps CollegeJing Lin presents "United as One Human Race: Education for Global Peace & Environmental Survival in the 21st Century."Garrison Theater, Scripps College, 241 E 10th St, Claremont909/607-9372 ● scrippscollege.edu

Thu 2/10 6 pmFamily Program at the Lancaster LibraryThe Voice of King: Dennis M Brown celebrates Black History month with a program featuring the famous speeches of Martin Luther King, Jr & songs of the Civil Rights era.Library, 601 W Lancaster Blvd, Lancaster661/948-5029 ● colapublib.org

Thu 2/10 6 pmDesign Talk at UCLAOksana Chepelyk introduces her multi-part video & photography installation that examines the genetic currency of the nation.Broad Arts Center, EDA, UCLA310/825-9007 ● dma.ucla.edu

Thu 2/10 6 pmAstronomy at the Sylmar LibraryFor teens: Join the Sidewalk Astronomers for stargazing, moon watching, & sidewalk chats about our cosmos.Sylmar Branch of LAPL, 14561 Polk St, Sylmar 818/367-6102 ● lapl.org

Thu 2/10 6 pmMusic at the FowlerFowler Out Loud: Songwriter Sirens - an evening featuring the bluesy rock of Skyler Gray, the sultry voice of Erica Rey, & Armenian folk songs of Manda Paul. Fowler Museum of Cultural History, UCLA310/825-4169 ● fmch.ucla.edu

Thu 2/10 6 pmLeon Wieseltier at UCLAThe writer, critic, & magazine editor presents "Peace Process or War Process? The Defeat of Reason in the Middle East" as the 2011 Daniel Pearl Memorial Lecture. RSVP.Anderson School, UCLA310/825-4811 ● international.ucla.edu

Thu 2/10 6 - 9 pm (also 2/17, 2/24)Art Night at LACEEvery Thursday, LACE offers a wealth of interdisciplinary programs including lectures, readings, performances, live music, video screenings, & more. Call to verify.LA Contemporary Exhibitions, 6522 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood323/957-1777 ● welcometolace.org

Thu 2/10 6:15 pmDocumentary at CSULAScreening of "Pray The Devil Back To Hell," the remarkable story of the courageous Liberian women who came together to end a bloody civil war.U-SU Theatre, Cal State Univ, 5151 State University Dr, LA323/343-5001 ● calstatela.edu

Thu 2/10 6:30 pmPhotography Talk at the AnnenbergNational Geographic Melissa Farlow speaks on "Extraordinary People in Ordinary Places." RSVP.Annenberg Space for Photography, 2000 Avenue of the Stars, Century City213/403-3000 ● annenbergspaceforphotography.org

Thu 2/10 6:30 pmIslam at USCIbrahim Abdul-Matin discusses his new book, "Green Deen," an exploration of Islam, environmental consciousness, & environmental justice.United University Church, USC323/740-8562 ● usc.edu

Thu 2/10 6:30 pmArt at MOCAIn conjunction with "Suprasensorial: Experiments in Light, Color & Space," MOCA presents an evenings of film & video. Galleries open free.Museum of Contemporary Art, 250 S Grand Ave, Downtown LA213/621-1745 ● moca.org

Thu 2/10 7 pmDisney at Vroman'sJack Lindquist discusses his 38 years in marketing for The Walt Disney Company in "In Service To the Mouse."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Thu 2/10 7 pmNumerology at the San Marino LibraryCelebrity numerologist Glynis McCants explains how to find your match or reignite staid relationships.Crowell Library, 1890 Huntington Dr, San Marino626/300-0777 ● sanmarinopl.org

Thu 2/10 7 pmGil Garcetti at Book SoupThe photographer & former councilman presents his new collection "Paris: Women & Bicycles."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Thu 2/10 7 pmPolitical Film at the ArmoryConscientious Projector screens “This Land Is Our Land: The Fight to Reclaim the Commons,” about those precious resources set aside from private ownership for the use, benefit & sustenance of all.Armory Center, 145 N Raymond Ave, Pasadena626/792-4291 ● armoryarts.org

Thu 2/10 7 pmHomesteading at SMPLThe quarterly Santa Monica Farmers Market series presents a program on urban homesteading, beyond gardens & edible landscaping.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Thu 2/10 7 pmArchitecture Talk at WoodburyVinayak Bharne speaks on "Indigenous Infrastructure & the Urban Water Crisis: Perspectives from Asia," as part of the Arid Lands project.Woodbury University, 7500 Glenoaks Blvd, Burbank818/767-0888 ● http://aridlands.woodbury.edu

Thu 2/10 7 pmFamily Night at the Burbank LibraryRhythms From Around The World focuses on the historical & cultural significance of drumming, & provides an outlet for participants to play.Central Library, 110 N Glenoaks Blvd, Burbank818/238-5600 ● BurbankLibrary.com

Thu 2/10 7 pmRobert Pinsky at the HammerThe former US poet laureate & jazz enthusiast reads poems with accompaniment by renowned jazz musician Bobby Bradford & his Mo’tet.UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood213/309-4322 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Thu 2/10 7 pm China at the Getty Qingyun Ma, Architecture dean at USC, moderates a panel of critics & artists in a discussion about creativity, capitalism, & the conflict between past & present in the work of a new generation of Chinese artists. RSVP.Williams Auditorium, Getty Center, Brentwood 310/440-7300 ● getty.edu

Thu 2/10 7 pmMitford at LAPLAloud presents author Leslie Brody in conversation with Patt Morrison on Brody's biography "Irrepressible: The Life & Times of Jessica Mitford." RSVP.Taper Auditorium, LA Public Library, 5th & Flower, Downtown LA213/228-7025 ● lapl.org

Thu 2/10 7:30 pmPoetry at Skylight BooksMillicent Borges Accardi reads from her most recent poetry collection, "Injuring Eternity."Skylight Books, 1818 N Vermont, Los Feliz323/660-1175 ● skylightbooks.com

Thu 2/10 7:30 pmSonia Sanchez at Pomona CollegeThe acclaimed poet & activist, considered one of the most important writers of the Black Arts Movement, presents "From the Black Arts to Hip Hop."Rose Hills Theater, Pomona College, 170 E 6th St, Claremont909/607-3070 ● pomona.edu/museum

Thu 2/10 7:30 pmFilm at the Korean Cultural CenterScreening of the Korean classic feature "The Love Marriage” (Lee Byung-il, 1958).Korean Cultural Center, 5505 Wilshire Blvd, Miracle Mile

323/733-0500 ● kccla.org

Thu 2/10 8 pmPoetry at LMUThe Spring Poetry Reading Series hosts Danielle Mitchell & Eric Morago.University Hall ECC 1857, Loyola Marymount, 1 LMU Drive, Westchester310/338-1971 ● lmu.edu

Fri 2/11 7:30 am - 5:30 pmWomen's Studies at UCLAThinking Gender is a public conference highlighting graduate student research on women, sexuality & gender across all disciplines & historical periods. Registration details online.Faculty Center, UCLA310/825-0590 ● women.ucla.edu/csw

Fri 2/11 10 amConcert Preview in WhittierMusician & composer John Santana, Director of Programming for KMZT, gives a preview of the Rio Hondo Symphony's 2/13 concert "Russian Rhapsody." First Friends Church, 13205 Philidelphia St, Whittier562/698-8626 ● riohondosymphony.org

Fri 2/11 10 am - 12 noonSocial Media at the Crawford Forum"Digital Diplomacy Forum: The Convergence of Social Media & Diplomacy" Representatives from the US, Israel, Canada & the UK about how they are leveraging these technologies to meet the diplomacy mission. RSVP.Crawford Family Forum, 474 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena626/583-5100 ● scpr.org

Fri 2/11 10 am - 12 noonWorkshop at USCSoldering Synthesis: Theory, Practice, Music - Mark Allen, founder of the arts collective Machine Project, gives a hands-on workshop in which participants learn how basic electronic circuits function by creating a synthesizer. RSVP.Egg Company Building, USC213/740-6786 ● usc.edu

Fri 2/11 12 noonMusic at Scripps CollegeSoprano Gwendolyn Lytle, violist Kira Blumberg, & pianist Genevieve Feiwen Lee play the music of Eric Lindholm.Balch Auditorium, Scripps College, 1030 Columbia Ave, Claremont909/607-9372 ● scrippscollege.edu

Fri 2/11 2 pmMovie at the Burbank LibraryFriday Matinee - Made In Burbank: Walt Disney's classic "Lady & the Tramp."Central Library, 110 N Glenoaks Blvd, Burbank818/238-5600 ● BurbankLibrary.com

Fri 2/11 3:45 pmTeen Movie at the NoHo LibraryTGIF screens "Easy A," starring Emma Stone.North Hollywood Branch of LAPL, 5211 Tujunga Ave, NH818/766-7185 ● .lapl.org

Fri 2/11 6 & 8 pm (also 2/12)Arts at the Korean Cultural Center

The Korean Performing Arts Showcase Series presents traditional & contemporary music & dance. Call to verify dates.Korean Cultural Center, 5505 Wilshire Blvd, Miracle Mile323/733-0500 ● kccla.org

Fri 2/11 6:30 - 9:30 pmBird Party at G2 Gallery Audubon California hosts "Beer & Bangers for the Birds," an evening of conversation, live music from The Heist, a book signing by Brian Yaeger, author of "Red White & Brew: An American Beer Odyssey," & a beer tasting. RSVP.G2 Gallery, 1503 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice 310/452-2842 ● theg2gallery.com

Fri 2/11 7 pmLiterature at Vroman'sHelen Horowitz discusses "Wild Unrest: Charlotte Perkins Gilman & the Making of "The Yellow Wall-Paper."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Fri 2/11 7 pmConcert at USCThe Thornton Opera program presents its annual night of opera scenes.Alfred Newman Recital Hall, USC213/740-2584 ● usc.edu

Fri 2/11 7 - 11 pmOpening at Urban SanctuaryReception for the group photography show "Abstract Vision : Female Perspective."Urban Sanctuary, 2026 E 1st St, Boyle Heightsurbansanctuaryla.com

Fri 2/11 7:30 pmWriter at Skylight BooksDavid Vann reads from his already-lauded new novel, "Caribou Island."Skylight Books, 1818 N Vermont, Los Feliz323/660-1175 ● skylightbooks.com

Fri 2/11 8 pmRecital at CalArtsTwincest: A recital by Andy & Ryan Studer featured original compositions, film scores, & songs.Wild Beast, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Fri 2/11 8 pm (see 2/4)Recital at the Colburn

Fri 2/11 8 pmVivaldi at UCLAFreshmen string students & faculty perform Vivaldi’s celebrated Four Seasons & other concertos in the rotunda.Powell Library Rotunda, UCLA310/983-1052 ● music.ucla.edu

Fri 2/11 8 - 10 pmOpen Mic at Tia Chucha'sLA novelist Pam Ward hosts Tia Chucha's Open Mic, a night of music & spoken word.Tia Chucha's, 13197 Gladstone Ave, Sylmar818/528-4511 ● tiachucha.com

Sat 2/12 8 am (see 2/5)Bird Walk at Dockweiler Beach

Sat 2/12 9 - 11 amFamily Walk in the Sepulveda BasinLearn to identify the birds that flock through the wildlife reserve on a walk with the Audubon Society. Meet at entrance to Wildlife Reserve. Sepulveda Basin, off Woodley north of Burbank, Encino818/346-6712 ● sepulvedabasinwildlife.org

Sun 2/12 9:30 amPaint-Out in MalibuJoin other artists, any media & level, to paint this popular surfing & fishing spot. Meet in parking lot.El Pescador Beach off PCH, Malibu310/383-1374 ● allied-artists.com

Sat 2/12 10 amTour at El PuebloThe Studio for So Cal History's Monica Pelayo leads a walking tour tracing the early development of LA. RSVP.Studio for So Cal History, 977 N Hill St, Downtown LA213/229-8890 ● socalstudio.org

Sat 2/12 10 amOpera at USCThe Metropolitan Opera in NYC performs John Adams’ "Nixon in China," transmitted live in HD. RSVP + come early.Eileen Norris Cinema Theatre, USC213/740-6786 ● usc.edu

Sat 2/12 10 am (also 2/26)Dune Walk in Ballona Wetlands Tour the freshwater marsh & see a variety of birds & native plants. Visitors Center, Playa Vista so. of Jefferson, Playa del Rey310/306-5994 ● ballonafriends.org

Sat 2/12 10:30 amFood at LAPLThe Culinary Historians of So Cal present Randy Clemens speaking on "Sriracha: The Story Behind the Addictively Spicy "Rooster Sauce."Taper Auditorium, LA Public Library, 5th & Flower, Downtown LA213/228-7201 ● lapl.org

Sat 2/12 11 amDe-Cluttering at the Granada Hills LibraryTracy McCubbin of dClutterfly shows how to from overwhelmed to organized in less than 24 hours.Granada Hills Branch of LAPL, 10640 Petit Ave, Granada Hills818/368-5689 ● wheatmedia.com/inca

Sat 2/12 11 am & 12:30 pmPerformances at Disney HallFor kids: World City presents the Hot 8 Brass Band from New Orleans. Tickets avail. from 10 am.Keck Amphitheatre, Disney Hall, 111 S Grand, Downtown LA213/972-3660 ● musiccenter.org

Sat 2/12 11 am - 4 pmExpo at Star Eco StationAfrican American Art Expo: Art from int'ly renowned & budding local artists; artist talks; musical & dance performances, folk art, & spoken word. Call to verify if free.Star Eco Station, 10101 W Jefferson Blvd, Culver City 310/842-8060 ● ecostation.org

Sat 2/12 11 am - 5 pmFamily Festival at JANMCandy Land: Celebrate food & all things candy, with crafts & cooking workshops, origami, storytelling, & more.

Japanese Amer. Nat’l Museum, 369 E 1st St, Little Tokyo213/625-0414 ~ janm.org

Sat 2/12 11:30 amYoga at the Sylmar LibraryYoga is a fun way to reduce stress & get in shape: learn how easy it is at a free beginner's workout.Sylmar Branch of LAPL, 14561 Polk St, Sylmar 818/367-6102 ● lapl.org

Sat 2/12 12:30 pmFamily Day at the Arcadia Museum Learn about Egyptian history & culture through hands-on activities which include sampling an Egyptian dessert, writing names in hieroglyphics & making a mini mummy.Arcadia Historical Museum, 380 W Huntington Dr, Arcadia626/574-5440 ● ci.arcadia.ca.us

Sat 2/12 1 pmAuthor at Book SoupCB Shiepe discusses his new novel, "Cliff Falls."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Sat 2/12 1 pmCrafts at CAAMBring pictures & keepsakes to create personalized Victorian frames or memory boxes, led by artist Cola. RSVP.Calif African American Museum, Exposition Park213/744-2024 ● caamuseum.org

Sat 2/12 1, 2, 3 & 4 pm (also 2/13)History Tours at the Workman HomesteadEyewitness to History: Travel back in time to the 1870s & 1920s with "From Courtship to Petting Parties: A Living History Tour." RSVP.Homestead Museum, 15415 E Don Julian Rd, City of Industry626/968-8492 ● homesteadmuseum.org

Sat 2/12 1 - 4 pmRagtime in Canoga ParkThe Valley Ragtime Stomp invites all & sundry to play or just sit back & enjoy an afternoon of music. Henri's, 21601 Sherman Way, Canoga Park818/348-5582 ● valleyragtimestomp.blogspot.com

Sat 2/12 1 - 4:30 pm (also 2/13)Camellia Show at the HuntingtonCelebrate romance with hundreds of prize-winning camellias at The Huntington’s 37th annual Camellia Show. Demos of pruning, disbudding, grafting, & other techniques, & plants for sale.Huntington Library, 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino310/825-1880 ● cmrs.ucla.edu

Sat 2/12 1:30 pmWestern Double Feature at the Autry Screening of Gene Autry's “Shooting High” (1940) & “Sioux City Sue” (1946) + John Ford & John Wayne's classic "The Searchers" (1956). Free w/admission. Museum of the Amer West, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park323/667-2000 ● autry-museum.org

Sat 2/12 2 pmPhoto Walk at King Gillette RanchCapture A Nature Moment: Learn the tricks of the trade from a nature photographer pro. RSVP.King Gillette Ranch, Mulholland off Las Virgenes, Calabasas310/858-7272 ● nps.gov/samo

Sat 2/12 2 pmBaking at Vroman'sAnne Byrn presents "The Cake Mix Doctor Bakes Gluten-Free."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Sat 2/12 2 pmFeng Shui at the La Verne LibraryJenny Liu presents "How to Adjust Feng Shui in Your Home & Office for 2011."Library, 3640 D St, La Verne909/596-1934 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/12 2 pmArt History at LACMABram Dijkstra discusses his recently published study, "Naked: the Nude in America."LA County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire, Miracle Mile 323/857-6512 ● lacma.org

Sat 2/12 2 pmTeen Movie at the Westwood LibraryScreening of "Dinner for Schmucks," starring Steve Carell.Westwood Branch of LAPL, 1246 Glendon Ave310/474-1739 ● lapl.org

Sat 2/12 2 pmMovie at the Burbank LibraryLe Petit Cinema screens "Valentine's Day," with Julia Roberts, Taylor Swift, Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Garner, Jamie Fox & Jessica Alba.Central Library, 110 N Glenoaks Blvd, Burbank818/238-5600 ● BurbankLibrary.com

Sat 2/12 2 pmLisa See in Sierra MadreThe author of "On Gold Mountain: The 100-Year Odyssey of My Chinese-American Family" talks about China, Chinatown, & family history. Part of the "One City, One Book" project.Community Services Center, 611 E Sierra Madre Blvd, Sierra Madre26/355-7186 ● sierramadre.lib.ca.us

Sat 2/12 2 pmMusic at the Woodcrest LibraryWe Shall Overcome: Join storyteller & musician Makinto for a journey through the history of African American music.Woodcrest Library, 1340 W 106th St, LA323/757-9373 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/12 2 pmBhutan at PAMMusic from the Mountains of Bhutan: Janet Herman & Jane Hancock explore the rich range of music from the tiny nation, with audio & video clips. Free w/admission; RSVP.Pacific Asia Museum, 46 N Los Robles Ave, Pasadena626/449-2742 ● pacificasiamuseum.org

Sat 2/12 2 pmOpera Talk at the Brand LibrarySpeakers from the LA Opera League go behind-the-scenes of Britten's "Turn of the Screw."Brand Library, 1601 W Mountain St, Glendale818/548-2051 ● library.ci.glendale.ca.us

Sat 2/12 2 pmWeird Al at BN at the GroveIn his debut children's book "When I Grow Up," "Weird Al" Yankovic celebrates individuality. See website for access rules.Barnes & Noble, The Grove at Farmers Market, 3rd & Fairfax, LA

323/525-0270 ● bn.com

Sun 2/12 2 pmPuppets at LAPLFor kids: Enjoy a comical adaptation of “The Race of the Tortoise & the Hare,” followed by a presentation on making puppets at home with items found around the house.LA Public Library, 5th & Flower, Downtown LA213/228-7000 ● lapl.org

Sat 2/12 2 pmTheater at the Brentwood LibraryVeteran actor Duffy Hudson performs his unique one-man show, “The Relativity of Albert Einstein.” Kaufman Branch of LAPL, 11820 San Vicente Blvd, Brentwood310/575-8273 ● lapl.org

Sat 2/12 2 - 4 pmOpen House in Ballona Wetlands A self-guided tour of the salt marsh & dunes, with docents at various stations to explain sights. Visitors Center, Playa Vista so. of Jefferson, Playa del Rey310/306-5994 ● ballonafriends.org

Sat 2/12 2 - 9:45 pm Star Party at the ObservatoryThe LA Sidewalk Astronomers bring out telescopes & show the sun, moon, & planets.Griffith Observatory, Griffith Park213/473-0800 ● griffithobservatory.org

Sat 2/12 3 pmAnimals at the San Dimas LibraryFor families: Wonders of Wildlife brings in a variety of wild animals & teaches where they live, what they eat, & other fascinating facts.Library, 145 N Walnut Ave, San Dimas909/599-6738 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/12 3 pmConcert at PPLAn afternoon with the Caltech Clarinet Choir.Library, 285 E Walnut St, Pasadena626/744-4052 ● ci.pasadena.ca.us/library

Sat 2/12 3 pmMESS at the UnurbanMedia Ecology Soul Salon presents a conversation with Marcy Winograd, founder of Progressive Democrats of LA.Unurban Coffeehouse, 3301 Pico, Santa Monica310/823-3878 ● laughtears.com

Sat 2/12 4 - 6 pmNature Walk in Palos VerdesBluff Cove - This wide-open cove offers shoreline hiking down to a rocky beach & magnificent tide pools. Moderate. See website for parking & directions.310/541-7613 ● pvplc.org

Sat 2/12 5 pmAddiction at Book SoupJane Velez-Mitchell discusses "Addict Nation: An Intervention for America."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Sat 2/12 5 pmWriter at Skylight BooksGlen Hirshberg reads his novel "The Book of Bunk: A Fairy Tale of the Federal Writers' Project."

Skylight Books, 1818 N Vermont, Los Feliz323/660-1175 ● skylightbooks.com

Sat 2/12 6 - 11 pmSpoke(n)Art Ride from Flying PigeonA tour of art galleries in North East LA - Meet up at the bike shop for a pleasant ride & art visits.Flying Pigeon, 3714 N Figueroa St, Highland Park213/909-8986 ● flyingpigeon-la.com

Sat 2/12 6:30 - 9 pmOpening at G2 Gallery Reception for an exhibition of images from the iLCP initiative RAVE (Rapid Assessment Visual Expedition) in which a team of photographers deploy creates a portfolio of an area that needs immediate media attention. RSVP.G2 Gallery, 1503 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice 310/452-2842 ● theg2gallery.com

Sat 2/12 7 pm (see 2.11)Arts at the Korean Cultural Center

Sat 2/12 7 pm (also 2/13)Afghani Music at the Getty Sounds of L.A: Music from the ensemble Sounds & Rhythms of Afghanistan featuring master musicians on rubab, doyra, tabla, & vocals. RSVP.Williams Auditorium, Getty Center, Brentwood 310/440-7300 ● getty.edu

Sat 2/12 7 - 10 pmGallery Night in Northeast LASecond Saturday: Two dozen galleries & art spaces open their doors with receptions, exhibits, & more. See website for map + bike tour info. 323/850-8566 ● NELAart.org

Sat 2/12 7 - 10 pmOpenings at Avenue 50Receptions for Armando Arreola's Circulo Magico/Magical Circus, with mixed media assemblaged theaters, & the group Valentine Exhibition ● Love Vibes.Avenue 50 Studio, 131 N Avenue 50, Highland Park323/258-1435 ● avenue50studio.com

Sat 2/12 8 pmConcert at LMU: Plucked InstrumentsUniversity Hall ECC 1857, Loyola Marymount, 1 LMU Drive, Westchester310/338-5386 ● lmu.edu

Sat 2/12 8 pmRecital at CalArtsBrice Albert gives his MFA mid-residency recital on jazz guitar, with original compositions & a quartet performance.ROD Hall, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Sat 2/12 8 pmConcert at USCThornton School faculty cellist Alexander Suleiman presents an evening concert with pianist & alumna Patricia Hoy.Alfred Newman Recital Hall, USC213/740-2584 ● usc.edu

Sat 2/12 8 pmAfrican Music in Claremont

Directed by Julia Tsitsi Chigamba, the Tawanda muChinyakare Ensemble performs traditional dance, mbira, drums, marimba, & song from Shona & other tribal groups of Zimbabwe.Bridges Hall, 150 E 4th St, Claremont909/607-2671 ● music.pomona.edu

Sun 2/13 8 amBird Walk at King Gillette RanchUp With the Birds: Stroll through the grounds of the illustrious Ranch on a 1-mile walk with an experienced birder. All levels welcome, bring binoculars. King Gillette Ranch, Mulholland off Las Virgenes, Calabasas310/370-2301 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/13 8:30 amBirdwalk in Franklin CanyonJoin with Audubon guides on a casual walk around the ponds & trails of this urban oak woodland nature preserve.Sooky Goldman Nature Center, near Coldwater & Mulholland (call for directions)323/876-0202 ● laaudubon.org

Sun 2/13 9 amPlant Walk at Eaton CanyonLearn about the local flora & begin understanding basic botany with guides from the Calif. Native Plant Society.Eaton Canyon Nature Center, 1750 N Altadena Dr, Pasadena626/359-5278 ● cnps-sgm.org

Sun 2/13 10 am - 1 pmMusic in SMTake a break from shopping the market for live music from Layla Lane.Farmers Market, 2640 Main St, Santa Monica310/458-8712 ● farmersmarket.santa-monica.org

Sun 2/13 10:30 am - 4:30 pm (see 2/12)Camellia Show at the Huntington

Sun 2/13 11 amFamily Flicks at the HammerEnjoy classic "The Muppet Movie," telling the story of how the troupe first met with wised-up wit & whimsy to spare. Tix avail. from 10 am.UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood310/443-7000 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Sun 2/13 11 am – 1 pm (see 2/6)Family Arts at LACMA

Sun 2/13 12:30 – 10:30 pmBluegrass Jam at the Coffee GalleryAn acoustic afternoon open to all pickers & lovers of bluegrass.Coffee Gallery, 2029 N Lake, Altadena626/797-1827 ● socalbluegrass.org

Sun 2/13 1 pm (see 2/6)Winter Walk in Topanga State Park

Sun 2/13 1, 2, 3 & 4 pm (see 2/12)History Tours at the Workman Homestead

Sun 2/13 1 - 3 pmNature Walk in Ballona Wetlands Explore the salt marsh & dunes & learn about our coastal ecosystem. Park at Gordon's Market, 303 Culver Blvd, Playa del Rey310/306-5994 ● ballonafriends.org

Sun 2/13 1 - 4 pmFolk Song Jam at CTMSRaise your voice in a circle of music from all folk traditions; kids welcome. CTMS Center, 16953 Ventura Blvd, Encino818/817-7756 ● ctmsfolkmusic.org

Sun 2/13 1 - 4 pmKids' Stuff at the FowlerKids in the Courtyard: Design & build large masks that reach towards the sky, inspired by the masquerade arts of Central Nigeria.Fowler Museum of Cultural History, UCLA310/825-4169 ● fmch.ucla.edu

Sun 2/13 2 pmConcert at the Nixon LibraryAnnual Valentine’s Day Concert with baritone Hershel Green & pianist Ann Patrick Green.Nixon Library, 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd, Yorba Linda714/993-5075 ● nixonlibraryfoundation.org

Sun 2/13 2 pmDouglas Brinkley at the Autry The historian & author presents his new book, "The Quiet World: Saving Alaska’s Wilderness Kingdom, 1879–1960." Free w/admission. Museum of the Amer West, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park323/667-2000 ● autry-museum.org

Sun 2/13 2 pmConcert at St Bede'sThe LA Recorder Orchestra plays an afternoon concert.St. Bede's Episcopal, 3590 Grand View Blvd, Palms310/391-5522 ● larohome.org

Sun 2/13 2 pmKids' Concert at The Americana at Brand The Pasadena Symphony Association’s Musical Circus hosts an instrument “petting zoo” + a brief musical performance on the theme "Soundscapes."Americana at Brand, 233 S Brand Blvd, Glendale626/793-7172 ● pasadenasymphony-pops.org

Sun 2/13 2 pmTibet at PAM"Awakening Kindness: Finding Joy Through Compassion for Others" An afternoon with renowned musician & Tibetan Buddhist Nawang Khechog. Free w/admission; RSVP.Pacific Asia Museum, 46 N Los Robles Ave, Pasadena626/449-2742 ● pacificasiamuseum.org

Sun 2/13 2 pmConcert at LAVCThe Kadima String Quartet plays an afternoon of chmamber music.Music Bldg, LA Valley College, 5800 Fulton Ave, Valley Village818/780-9596 ● kadimaconservatory.com

Sun 2/13 2 pmConcert in Rolling Hills EstatesSecond Sundays presents prize-winning violinist Mayumi Kanagawa + pianist & composer Phillip Golub.Rolling Hills UMC, 26438 Crenshaw Blvd, RHE310/377-6771 ● rhumc.org

Sun 2/13 2 pmAfrican American History at CAAM

Teacher, librarian, & performer Victoria Burnet brings stories of the early 1900's to life. RSVP.Calif African American Museum, Exposition Park213/744-2024 ● caamuseum.org

Sun 2/13 2 pmConcert at the Westlake LibraryHarmony Connection, a local barbershop quartet, performs songs that will evoke memories of days gone by.Library, 31220 Oak Crest Dr, Westlake Village818/865-9230 ● colapublib.org

Sun 2/13 2 - 3 pmSalon at the Norton SimonJoin a Museum educator in the galleries for a dynamic discussion of the development of perspective & depth in painting. Sign up at Info Desk from 1 pm. Free w/admission.Norton Simon Museum, 411 W Colorado, Pasadena626/844-6905 ● nortonsimon.org

Sun 2/13 2 - 4 pmFamily Arts at BarnsdallFree art workshops on revolving themes, led by artists. Today, India: Mandalas Mixed Media Collage with Katie Bachler.Junior Art Center, Barnsdall Art Park, 4800 Hollywood Blvd, LA323/644-6275 ● barnsdall.org

Sun 2/13 2 - 5 pmNigeria at the FowlerFor the opening day of "Central Nigeria Unmasked," curators & authors discuss the history & meanings of dramatic masquerades performed across Central Nigeria. Screening of new video footage & rare archival films of masquerades.Fowler Museum of Cultural History, UCLA310/825-4169 ● fmch.ucla.edu

Sun 2/13 2:30 pmConcert at PPLTuesday Musicale gives their regular Second Sunday Concert.Library, 285 E Walnut St, Pasadena626/744-4052 ● ci.pasadena.ca.us/library

Sun 2/13 3 pmPhoto Walk in Franklin CanyonCapture the moment with an experienced photographer who shows how to find unique nature views & photo ops. 2 hrs. RSVP. Franklin Canyon Ranch, near Beverly Drive & Coldwater (call for directions)310/858-7272 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/13 3 pmGallery Talk at MOCA GeffenArt historian Catha Paquette explores the socially & politically oppositional nature of the works in "Suprasensorial: Experiments in Light, Color, & Space." Free w/admission.Museum of Contemporary Art, 152 N Central, Little Tokyo213/621-1745 ● moca.org

Sun 2/13 3 pmConcert in Whittier"Russian Rhapsody" The Rio Hondo Symphony presents a musical celebration of Russia, with music by Glinka, Rachmaninoff, & Tchaikovsky.Whittier HS, 12417 E Philadelphia, Whittier562/698-8626 ● riohondosymphony.org

Sun 2/13 3 pmMovies at USC

SCA Alumni Screening Series screens the new documentary "With Great Power - The Stan Lee Story," followed by a Q&A with directors Terry Dougas, Nikki Frakes & Will Hess. RSVP.Ray Stark Theatre, USC213/740-2330 ● cinema.usc.edu

Sun 2/13 3:30 pm (see 2/12)Afghani Music at the Getty

Sun 2/13 4 pmConcert at St James Tarzana"A Harmonica & a Tenor" Master Harmonica player Tommy Morgan & tenor Ralph Mauriello perform Broadway, TV & movie songs, Sinatra favorites & Grand Opera. St James Presbyterian, 19414 Ventura Blvd, Tarzana818/345-2057 ● stjamespres.org

Sun 2/13 4 pmBiography at Book SoupCharles Rappleye discusses "Robert Morris: Financier of the American Revolution."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Sun 2/13 4 pm (see also 7 pm)Schoenberg in ClaremontA panel discussion offering insights into understanding Schoenberg’s music.Lyman Hall, Pomona College, 150 E 4th St, Claremont909/607-2671 ● music.pomona.edu

Sun 2/13 4 pmConcert at USCThe Thornton Wind Ensemble & singers collaborate with faculty pianists Kevin Fitz-Gerald & Bernadine Blaha in the West Coast premiere of Hans Werner Henze’s Muses of Sicily.Bovard Auditorium, USC213/740-2584 ● usc.edu

Sun 2/13 4 pmKeanu at LACMAPainter Alexandra Grant & actor Keanu Reeves celebrate the release of their book "Ode to Happiness," & talk about the ideas of translation, melancholy, & friendship that inspired the book.LA County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire, Miracle Mile 323/857-6512 ● lacma.org

Sun 2/13 4:30 pmSacred Music at St. James’Solemn Evensong with the acclaimed Choir of St. James.St. James’ Church, 3903 Wilshire Blvd, Mid-Wilshire213/388-3417 ● saintjamesla.org

Sun 2/13 5 pmJazz Vespers at Mt OliveA traditional evening service of prayer, meditation & music featuring the music of the Janice Anderson Trio. Freewill offering, childcare provided.Mt Olive Lutheran, 1343 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica310/452-1116 ● mtolivelutheranchurch.org

Sun 2/13 5 pmWriters at Skylight BooksAn amazing lineup of writers - Aimee Bender, Janet Fitch, Jonathan Lethem, Susan Straight, & Lisa Teasley - read from their pieces in Black Clock 13, the latest issue of this great literary journal.Skylight Books, 1818 N Vermont, Los Feliz323/660-1175 ● skylightbooks.com

Sun 2/13 5 pmMusic at All Saints PasadenaEvensong with the Canterbury Choir performing music of Bruce Neswick & Sid Robinovitch.All Saints Church, 132 N Euclid Ave, Pasadena626/796-1172 ● allsaints-pas.org

Sun 2/13 6 pmFilm at USCScreening of writer/director Stanley Nelson’s telefilm "Freedom Riders," based on the Raymond Arsenault book "Freedom Riders: 1961 & the Struggle for Racial Justice." Q&A w/author follows. RSVP.Ray Stark Theatre, USC323/740-6110 ● usc.edu

Sun 2/13 6 pmConcert at St. James’The International Laureates Organ Series presents organist Eric Plutz in concert.St. James’ Church, 3903 Wilshire Blvd, Mid-Wilshire213/388-3417 ● saintjamesla.org

Sun 2/13 6 pm Concert at LACMAThe UCLA Virtuosi: Guillaume Sutre & Movses Pogossian, violins; Richard O'Neill & Alison Spieth, violas; Antonio Lysy & Jasmine Lau, cellos, perform music of Zeisll & BrahmsBing Theater, LA County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire, Miracle Mile323/857-6234 ● sundayslive.org

Sun 2/13 6 - 9 pmOpening at Eagle Rock Center for the ArtsReception for "Myth & Infrastructure: Performance by Miwa Matreyek," a multi-media performance using projected animation.Center for the Arts, 2225 Colorado Blvd, Eagle Rock323/226-1617 ● centerartseaglerock.org

Sun 2/13 7 pmConcert at the ColburnMusic from the Orchestra Da Camera.Colburn School, 200 S Grand Ave, Downtown LA213-621-1050 ● colburnschool.edu

Sun 2/13 7 pmSlake at Vroman'sEditors Laurie Ochoa & Joe Donnelly, & several of their writers, celebrate the new issue of Slake with a night celebrating love & LA's man of dirty letters, Charles Bukowski.Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Sun 2/13 7 pm (see also 4 pm)Schoenberg in ClaremontThe Formalist String Quartet plays music by Schnittke, Smith, & Schoenberg.Bridges Hall, 150 E 4th St, Claremont909/607-2671 ● music.pomona.edu

Sun 2/13 7 pmGallery Talk at the HammerCurator Lisa Dorin leads a walkthrough of the exhibition "Richard Hawkins: Third Mind." Free w/admission.UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood213/309-4322 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Sun 2/13 8 pmRecital at CalArts

Recital featuring Vanessa Robaire (voice), Larry Koonse (guitar), Otmaro Ruiz (piano), Dave Robaire (bass), & Dan Schnelle (drums).ROD Hall, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Valentine's Day

Mon 2/14 10 amArtist Talk at CSUNJames Robie talks about the work in the current exhibition of his graphic design & fine art spanning 4 decades.Art Gallery, CSUN, 18111 Nordhoff, Northridge818/677-2904 ● csun.edu

Mon 2/14 12 noonMoney at USCCurrency expert Bill Maurer unravels "Mobile Money: Communication, Consumption & Change in the Payments Space."Annenberg School 207, USC213/740-5746 ● usc.edu

Mon 2/14 12 noonHistory at LMUClarence Lusane presents a comprehensive history of the White House from an African American perspective, illuminating the central role it has played in advancing, thwarting or ignoring efforts to achieve equal rights for all.Hannon Library, Loyola Marymount, 1 LMU Drive, Westchester310/338-1971 ● lmu.edu

Mon 2/14 4 pm (see also 2/15 - 2/19)Roots at SMPLPart 1 of the historic "Roots" miniseries, based on Alex Haley's autobiographical novel.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Mon 2/14 4:30 pmAfrican Writing at UCLANigerian actor, comedian, screenwriter, director & producer Pascal Atuma speaks for the "50 Years of African Writing: Novels, Filmmaking, Criticism" series.Royce Hall 314, UCLA310/825-3686 ● international.ucla.edu

Mon 2/14 6 pmEli Broad at MOCAAuthor Annie Cohen-Solal discusses her recent book Leo & His Circle: The Life of Leo Castelli with philanthropist Eli Broad & MOCA Director Jeffrey Deitch. Free w/admission.Museum of Contemporary Art, 250 S Grand Ave, Downtown LA213/621-1745 ● moca.org

Mon 2/14 6 - 10 pm Documental at the UnUrban The long-running experimental & documentary film series screens a dozen shorts from experimental filmmakers Tony Gault & Elizabeth Henry. Pre-show at 6 pm.UnUrban Coffeehouse, 3301 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica310/306-7330 ● laughtears.com

Mon 2/14 6:30 pmConcert at the Beach House"Passion/Pasion!" Victoria Kirsch & Friends present a Valentine's Day concert touching on the theme of love, with selections from Pagliacci to West Side Story, with detours through romantic arias in Spanish & tunes from Gershwin & Porter. RSVP.

Annenberg Beach House, 415 PCH, Santa Monica310/458-4904 ● beachhouse.smgov.net

Mon 2/14 6:30 pmKids' Movie at the Monrovia LibraryGrab your pillow & favorite stuffed animal & enjoy "The Jungle Book."Monrovia Public Library, 321 S Myrtle Ave, Monrovia626/256-8274 ● cityofmonrovia.org

Mon 2/14 7:30 pmPoetry at Village BooksMoonday Poetry presents readings by Judith Pacht & Susan Rogers.Village Books, 1049 Swarthmore Ave, Pacific Palisades310/454-4063 ● moondaypoetry.com

Mon 2/14 8 pmRecital at CalArtsBrice Albert gives his MFA mid-residency recital of selected jazz songs & original compositions.ROD Hall, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Tue 2/15 11 amArtist Talk at OtisFine Arts presents a lecture by Anne Ellegood, senior curator at the Hammer Museum.Forum, Otis College, 9045 Lincoln, Westchester310/665-6827 ● otis.edu

Tue 2/15 11 amMiddle East at UCLAUri Bialer speaks on "The Study of the History of Israel's Foreign Policy as an Area of Study."Bunche Hall 10383, UCLA310/825-9646 ● international.ucla.edu

Tue 2/15 1:30 pmTrauma at CSULAProfessors Gabriela Fried Amilivia & Angela Vergara present "Forced Disappearance, State Terror, & Traumatic Memory."King Hall D 4050, Cal State Univ, 5151 State University Dr, LA323/343-5001 ● calstatela.edu

Tue 2/15 2 pmMovies at GPL: Ghostbusters (1984)Central Library, 222 E Harvard St, Glendale818/548-2042 ● library.ci.glendale.ca.us

Tue 2/15 2 pmArt | Science at UCLAAlfred Vendl: A lecture & showing of material science & visualization by the award-winning chemist, documentary director & filmmaker.Fowler Museum, UCLA310/206-0686 ● artsci.ucla.edu

Tue 2/15 2 pmOpera Talk at BHPLThe LA Opera Speakers Bureau takes a behind-the-scenes look at Benjamin Britten's "Turn of the Screw by Benjamin Britten."Beverly Hills Public Library, 444 N Rexford Dr, BH310/288-2244 ● beverlyhills.org

Tue 2/15 3:30 pmFolk Dance at the El Camino Real Library

An exciting program of international folk dance performed by the Gypsy Folk Ensemble.El Camino Real Library, 4264 E Whittier Blvd, LA323/269-8102 ● colapublib.org

Tue 2/15 3:30 pmFamily Program at the Littlerock LibraryRenowned storyteller Michael McCarty celebrates Black History Month in song, dance, & stories.Littlerock Library, 35119 80th St East, Littlerock661/944-4138 ● colapublib.org

Tue 2/15 4 pmWar at USC"Humans, Robots & War: Digitizing the Laws of War" A panel of guests explores the legal & political ramifications of the rise of robotic warfare. RSVP.Doheny Memorial Library, USC213/740-5746 ● usc.edu

Tue 2/15 4 pmMime at the Lake LA LibraryFor kids: Mark Wenzel brings the theatre of mime to life, with classical & contemporary mime pieces, stunts & lots of interactive participation.Lake Los Angeles Library, 16921 E Ave O, Palmdale661/264-0593 ● colapublib.org

Tue 2/15 4 pmJewish Studies at UCLAGil Aztmon speaks on "Jews & Genes: The Jewish Genome in the Genomic Era." RSVP. Faculty Center, UCLA310/267-5327 ● cjs.ucla.edu

Tue 2/15 4 pm (see 2/14)Roots at SMPLPart 2 of the historic "Roots" miniseries, based on Alex Haley's autobiographical novel.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Tue 2/15 5 pmMiddle East at UCLAUri Bialer speaks on "Cross on the Star of David: The Historical Foundations of Israel Relations with the Christian World."Bunche Hall 10383, UCLA310/825-9646 ● international.ucla.edu

Tue 2/15 5 pmArt | Science at UCLAMedia artist Diane Gromala talks about new technologies & interaction design to improve the lives of people who live with long-term chronic pain.Broad Arts Center, EDA, UCLA310/206-0686 ● artsci.ucla.edu

Tue 2/15 6 pmDance at the East LA LibraryDances of Asia: Tani & Friends Dance Group perform a variety of beautiful dances from different Asian countries.East LA Library, 4837 E 3rd St, LA323/264-0155 ● colapublib.org

Tue 2/15 6:30 pmCooking at the Agoura Hills LibraryDevin Morgan presents her new cookbook, "The Little Book of Soups."Library, 29901 Ladyface Court, Agoura Hills818/889-2278 ● colapublib.org

Tue 2/15 6:30 pmTheater at USCActor & activist Naomi Ackerman performs "Flowers Aren't Enough," her acclaimed one-woman show about a young woman in an abusive relationship. RSVP online.Tutor Campus Center, USC213/740-6786 ● usc.edu

Tue 2/15 7 pmBhutan at Vroman'sLisa Napoli presents "Radio Shangri-La: What I Learned in Bhutan, the Happiest Kingdom on Earth."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Tue 2/15 7 pmArtist Talk at the HammerSocial scientist, artist, writer, & provocateur Trevor Paglen talks about his photography work.UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood213/309-4322 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Tue 2/15 7 pmDocumentary at the Fairview LibraryScreening of "Which Way Home" (2009), following unaccompanied child migrants on their journey through Mexico, as they try to reach the US.Fairview Branch of SMPL, 2101 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica310/450-0443 ● smpl.org

Tue 2/15 7 pmIn-Store at AmoebaMusic from ex-Afghan Whigs frontman Greg Dulli & the Twilight Singers.Amoeba Music, 6400 Sunset, Hollywood323/245-6400 ● amoebamusic.com

Tue 2/15 7 pmJonathan Lethem in ClaremontScreening of the 1988 John Carpenter science fiction/horror film "They Live," followed by an informal talk with noted novelist Lethem.````Rose Hills Theatre, Pomona College, 150 E 4th St, Claremont909/607-2212 ● music.pomona.edu

Tue 2/15 7 - 8:30 pmOpening at Rio Hondo CollegeReception & artist talk for Steve Portigal's "The Art Of Alchemy," an exploration in clay of the idea of transformation.Art Gallery, Rio Hondo College, 3600 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier562/908-3492 ● riohondo.edu/arts

Tue 2/15 7:30 pmArtists at Gallery 825The LA Art Assoc's Hash Sessions are artist-driven dialogues on issues that pertain to careers & process.LAAA/Gallery 825, 825 N La Cienega Blvd, LA310/652-8272 ● laaa.org

Tue 2/15 7:30 pmWriter at Skylight BooksGraphic designer & Daily Monster creator Stefan G. Bucher reads "You Deserve a Medal: Honors on the Path to True Love."Skylight Books, 1818 N Vermont, Los Feliz323/660-1175 ● skylightbooks.com

Tue 2/15 7:30 pmCondors in Temescal Park

Culture in the Canyon: "Breathing Life into LA's Forgotten River" Jenny Price discusses the location & history of the LA River & the importance of ongoing revitalization projects. Temescal Gateway Park, 15601 Sunset Blvd, Pacific Palisades310/454-1395 ● nps.gov/samo

Tue 2/15 8 pmPoetry in RB: Michael Miller + open readingCoffee Cartel, 1820 S Catalina Ave, Redondo Beach310/316-6554 ● redondopoets.com

Tue 2/15 9 pmPoetry at the Cobalt: Erika Ayon + open readingCobalt Café, 22047 Sherman Way, Canoga Park818/348-3789 ● poetrysuperhighway.com/cobalt

Wed 2/16 10 amPainting at Rancho Sierra VistaBring art supplies & join fellow artists in painting Plein Air landscapes. Observers welcome.Rancho Sierra Vista, Lynn Rd at Via Goleta, 1000 Oaks805/583-8044 ● nps.gov/samo

Wed 2/16 11 amClassic Films at the Torrance libraryEnjoy Frank Capra's "Mr Deeds Goes to Town," with Gary Cooper.Civic Center Library, 3301 Torrance Blvd, Torrance310/618-5959 ● torrnet.com

Wed 2/16 12 noonConcert at 1st Baptist GlendaleMusic @ Noon presents the Turath Ensemble, directed by Sami Asmar, playing Arabic music. Lunch avail for purchase.1st Baptist Church, 209 N Louise St, Glendale818-242-2113 ● fbcglendale.net

Wed 2/16 12 noonConcert at Pasadena PresbyterianA lunchtime concert from Alex Wasserman on piano.Pasadena Presb. Church, 585 E. Colorado Bl, Pasadena626/793-2191 ● ppc.net

Wed 2/16 12:30 pmArt Talk at the HammerA lunchtime chat focused on one artwork; today, Roberto Cuoghi's Hammer Project, 2011.UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood310/443-7000 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Wed 2/16 12:45 pmOrgan Recital at the CathedralA short organ concert from guest organist James Vail.Our Lady of the Angels, 555 Temple, Downtown LA213/680-5205 ● olacathedral.org

Wed 2/16 1 pmEthnomusicology at UCLAThe Nazir Ali Jairazbhoy Colloquium Series hosts Russell Rodriguez, talking about his research.Schoenberg Music Building, Room B544, UCLA310/206-3033 ● ethnomusic.ucla.edu

Wed 2/16 1 pmRomantic Movies at PPL"Ladies in Lavender" (2004), with Maggie Smith & Judi Dench.Library, 285 E Walnut St, Pasadena626/744-4052 ● ci.pasadena.ca.us/library

Wed 2/16 3:15 pmDocumentary at CSULAThe Pan African Student Resource Center screens part II of "Rise & Fall of Jim Crow."U-SU, 2nd floor, Cal State Univ, 5151 State University Dr, LA323/343-5001 ● calstatela.edu

Wed 2/16 4 pmMagic at the Acton LibraryFor families: Popular magician Tony Daniels amaze kids of all ages with one sensational trick after another.Agua Dulce Library, 33792 Crown Valley Rd, Acton661/269-7101 ● colapublib.org

Wed 2/16 4 pmDance at UCLAThe “Artist Alphabet” interweaves artistic performance & scholarship & features Gregory Maqoma in dialogue with distinguished scholars on the topic of “Memory & Identity.”Kaufman Hall 200, UCLA310/206-9227 ● international.ucla.edu

Wed 2/16 4 pm (see 2/14)Roots at SMPLPart 3 of the historic "Roots" miniseries, based on Alex Haley's autobiographical novel.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Wed 2/16 4:30 pmW.S. Merwin at USCThe US Poet Laureate 2010-2011, translator & environmental activist, reads work from his 5-decade career.Doheny Memorial Library, USC213/740-6786 ● usc.edu

Wed 2/16 5 - 7 pmCultura at CSULACelebrate the diversity & cultures of the Chicano/Latino diaspora, with performances by Los Poets del Norte, Afro-Latino musicians, salsa, flamenco & samba dancers, Azucar LA, & student groups.U-SU Plaza, Cal State Univ, 5151 State University Dr, LA323/343-5001 ● calstatela.edu

Wed 2/16 6 pmMovie at the Lancaster LibraryTo celebrate Black History month, a screening of "Driving Miss Daisy," with Morgan Freeman & Jessica Tandy.Library, 601 W Lancaster Blvd, Lancaster661/948-5029 ● colapublib.org

Wed 2/16 6 pmLo Bosworth at BN at the GroveActress Lauren "Lo" Bosworth reads her story in "The Lo-Down." See website for access rules.Barnes & Noble, The Grove at Farmers Market, 3rd & Fairfax, LA323/525-0270 ● bn.com

Wed 2/16 6 pmArchitecture Talk at USCKaren Kensek speaks about information modeling in "Computational Inquiry: BIM Analytics." Gin D. Wong Auditorium, USC213/740-2787 ● usc.edu

Wed 2/16 6 pmOpera Talk at the La Cañada LibrarySpeakers from the LA Opera go behind the scenes with Rossini's "Il Turco in Italia."

Library, 4545 N Oakwood Ave, La Cañada Flintridge818/790-3330 ● colapublib.org

Wed 2/16 6 pmSoviet Art at UCLAArt critic Edward Goldman & filmmakers Amanda Pope & Tchavdar Georgiev screen & discuss the documentary "The Desert of Forbidden Art."Bunche Hall 10383, UCLA310/206-9227 ● international.ucla.edu

Wed 2/16 6 pmChina at LMUFrankie Leung discusses "Can Chinese Enterprises Globalize?"Ahmanson 1000, Loyola Marymount, 1 LMU Drive, Westchester310/338-2731 ● lmu.edu

Wed 2/16 6:30 pmBasketball at the Monrovia LibraryDaniel McLaurin III tells an inspirational story about his record-setting high school basketball team in an era of blatant racial discrimination in "32 Minutes of Greatness."Monrovia Public Library, 321 S Myrtle Ave, Monrovia626/256-8274 ● cityofmonrovia.org

Wed 2/16 7 pmAuthor at Book SoupPeter Cropsey reads "Dead Man Waking."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Wed 2/16 7 pmV-Day at Cal LutheranThe student group Feminism Is… is proud to present "The Vagina Monologues."Lundring Center, Cal Lutheran U, 60 W Olsen Rd, Thousand Oaks805/217-3438 ● clunet.edu

Wed 2/16 7 pmBirds at Eaton CanyonOrnithologist Tom Ryan presents "LA County's Sensitive Bird Species " for the Audubon Society meeting. Eaton Canyon Nature Ctr, 1750 N. Altadena Dr, Pasadena818/352-4954 ● pasadenaaudubon.org

Wed 2/16 7 pmMemoir at Vroman'sMira Bartok reads "The Memory Palace," about how she & her sister had to isolate themselves from their schizophrenic mother.Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Wed 2/16 7 pmCommunity at OccidentalBrazilian artist, composer, & theater director Octavio Camargo speaks on "Living Memory of At-Risk Groups & Communities."Clapp Library, Occidental College, 1600 Campus Rd, Eagle Rock323/259-3649 ● oxy.edu

Wed 2/16 7 pmDocumentary at CAAMScreening of the film "The Language You Cry In," tracing the linguistic connections between West Africa & the Gullah people in the US. RSVP & verify date.Calif African American Museum, Exposition Park213/744-2024 ● caamuseum.org

Wed 2/16 7 pmScreenwriting at USC

Award-winning producer-writer-director Pen Densham presents his new book "Riding the Alligator: Strategies for a Career in Screenplay Writing (...& not getting eaten)." RSVP.Broccoli Theatre (SCA 112), USC213/740-2330 ● cinema.usc.edu

Wed 2/16 7 pmPuppets at the Valencia LibraryFor families: A special puppet show for all ages celebrates the diversity of music around the world.Library, 23743 W Valencia Blvd, Santa Clarita661/259-8942 ● colapublib.org

Wed 2/16 7 pmArchitecture Talk at SCI-ArcPaolo Cascone, principal of COdesignLab, speaks on "Eco_Logic Design-Towards High-Tech Design, Low-Tech Construction."SCI-Arc, 960 E 3rd St, Downtown LA213/613-2200 ● sciarc.edu

Wed 2/16 7 pmWriters at LAPLAloud presents brilliant young writers Sarah Shun-lien Bynum & Yiyun Li reading & discussing their work & the role of the unexpected in writing fiction. RSVP.Taper Auditorium, LA Public Library, 5th & Flower, Downtown LA213/228-7025 ● lapl.org

Wed 2/16 7 - 10 pmSalon at the Beyond BaroqueGerry Fialka's MOM (Meditations On Media) is a stimulating soiree on the social consequences of media.Beyond Baroque, 681 Venice Blvd, venice310/922-3006 ● laughtears.com

Wed 2/16 7:30 pmHistory at the HuntingtonClaire McEachern speaks on "The Four (Next) Most Powerful Women in Elizabethan England."Friends’ Hall, Huntington Library, 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino626/405-2100 ● huntington.org

Wed 2/16 7:30 pmHypocrisy at the Actors' GangZócalo Public Square presents scholar & Net Effect blogger Evgeny Morozov, explains why the Internet isn’t always a cure for repression, & why it may even be a threat to democracy. RSVP.The Actors' Gang, 9070 Venice Blvd, Culver Cityzocalopublicsquare.org

Wed 2/16 8 pmRecital at CalArtsChristin Hablewitz presets an evening of clarinet chamber music with a global focus, featuring works by Alfonso Fuentes, Daniel Bimbi, Paquito D'Rivera, Frank Bennett, Ali Osman, & Pixinguinha.Wild Beast, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Wed 2/16 8 pmConcert at UCLAStudents & independent music groups from the Dept of Ethnomusicology perform music of Africa & the Near East.Popper Theater, Schoenberg Building, UCLA310/983-1052 ● friendsofjazz.ucla.edu

Thu 2/17 9:30 am (also 2/18. 9 am & 2 pm)Music Talk at USC

Jameson Marvin from Harvard University presents a series of lectures for the department of choral & sacred music.Music Faculty Building 319, USC213/740-2584 ● usc.edu

Thu 2/17 11 am (see 2/10)Music at the Colburn

Thu 2/17 12 noonLunch Talk at the Arcadia Museum Ruth Reeder gives brown-bag talk on "Aprons Tied to the History of Arcadia."Arcadia Historical Museum, 380 W Huntington Dr, Arcadia626/574-5440 ● ci.arcadia.ca.us

Thu 2/17 12 noon (see 2/3)Organ Recital at FCC

Thu 2/17 12 noonJewish Studies at UCLAYair Lorberbaum speaks on "Two Concepts of 'The Decree of the Scripture': A Chapter in Maimonides' Philosophy of Law & Halakhah." RSVP. Bunche Hall 6275, UCLA310/267-5327 ● cjs.ucla.edu

Thu 2/17 12:30 pmMovies at the Memorial LibraryBook into Film: "Emma" Read Jane Austen's classic & then the interpretation starring Gwyneth Paltrow.Memorial Branch of LAPL, 4625 W Olympic Blvd, LA323/938-2732 ● lapl.org

Thu 2/17 2 pmMovie at the NoHo LibraryScreening of Steven Spielberg's "The Color Purple," for Black History Month. North Hollywood Branch of LAPL, 5211 Tujunga Ave, NH818/766-7185 ● lapl.org

Thu 2/17 3:30 pmKids' Movie at the West Covina LibraryRead the Book, See the Movie: "Howl's Moving Castle," by Diana Wynne Jones.Library, 1601 W Covina Pkwy, West Covina626/962-3541 ● colapublib.org

Thu 2/17 4 pmJazz at USCAssemblage Through Jazz & Art: Enjoy an afternoon concert inspired by the works of John Nava, Sylvia Shap & JS Carson.Fisher Museum of Art, USC213/740-2584 ● usc.edu

Thu 2/17 4 pm (see 2/14)Roots at SMPLPart 4 of the historic "Roots" miniseries, based on Alex Haley's autobiographical novel.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Thu 2/17 4 pmCreativity at USCLiterary scholars & working writers examine the lives, careers, writings & receptions of female authors over the age of 50, past & present. RSVP.Doheny Memorial Library, USC213/740-5746 ● usc.edu

Thu 2/17 5 pm

Documentary at UCLAAward-winning historian, author, & documentary filmmaker Cari Beauchamp presents "Frances Marion & the Powerful Women of Hollywood."Melnitz Hall 1422, UCLA310/825-2101 ● tft.ucla.edu

Thu 2/17 5:30 pmEducation at Scripps CollegeNelly Stromquist presents "Gender & Higher Education in Times of Globalization."Garrison Theater, Scripps College, 241 E 10th St, Claremont909/607-9372 ● scrippscollege.edu

Thu 2/17 5:30 - 10 pmFashion Walk in Downtown LA30 boutiques, clothing stores, & fashion-related businesses in Downtown's Gallery Row stay open late, with exhibitions, photo shoots, pop-up stores, live music, comedy, & performance art. See website for map & to confirm.Main, Broadway, & Spring Sts btwn 4th & 7th St, Downtown LA213/804-8396 ● downtownfashionwalk.com

Thu 2/17 6 pmAstronomy at the Valley Plaza LibraryFor teens: Join the Sidewalk Astronomers for stargazing, moon watching, & sidewalk chats about our cosmos.Valley Plaza Branch of LAPL, 12311 Vanowen, NH818/765-9251 ● lapl.org

Thu 2/17 6 pmDocumentary at USCDan Birman screens his new documentary "Me Facing Life: Cyntoia's Story," an in-depth look at a 16-year-old girl serving a life sentence for murder. RSVP.Annenberg Auditorium, USC213/821-3015 ● usc.edu

Thu 2/17 6 - 9 pm (see 2/10)Art Night at LACE

Thu 2/17 6 - 9 pmArt Walk in VeniceThe new monthly Venice Art Crawl opens up the studios & galleries of this artsy area, focusing on a different zone each month. See website for map & events.veniceartcrawl.com

Thu 2/17 6:15 pmDocumentary at CSULAScreening of Sylvia Morales’ "A Crushing Love," honoring the achievements of 5 activist Latinas.U-SU Theatre, Cal State Univ, 5151 State University Dr, LA323/343-5001 ● calstatela.edu

Thu 2/17 6:30 pmBallet at the ColburnPresentation & book signing of "The Sugarless Sugarplum," by former NY City Ballet Soloist, Zippora Karz.Colburn School, 200 S Grand Ave, Downtown LA213-621-1050 ● colburnschool.edu

Thu 2/17 6:30 pmSocial Networking at the Westlake LibraryHarmony Connection, a local barbershop quartet, performs songs that will evoke memories of days gone by.Library, 31220 Oak Crest Dr, Westlake Village818/865-9230 ● colapublib.org

Thu 2/17 6:30 pm

Photography Talk at the AnnenbergPulitzer Prize finalist Natalie Fobes speaks on her work, which tells stories tracing the intersection of cultures & the environment. RSVP.Annenberg Space for Photography, 2000 Avenue of the Stars, Century City213/403-3000 ● annenbergspaceforphotography.org

Thu 2/17 6:30 pmArchitecture at the Los Feliz LibraryAn evening with a distinguished local architect. Come early for seats.Los Feliz Branch of LAPL, 1874 Hillhurst Ave, LA323/913-4710 ● lapl.org

Thu 2/17 7 pmAging at Book SoupJoan Moran discusses "Sixty, Sex, & Tango: Confessions of a Beatnik Boomer."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Thu 2/17 7 pmAmerica at CSUNMichael Parenti speaks on "America's Culture Struggle: Religion & Politics." RSVP.Whitsett Room, SH 451, CSUN, 18111 Nordhoff, Northridge818/677-2904 ● csun.edu

Thu 2/17 7 pmIn-Store at AmoebaMusic from Celso Piña's & their cumbia, vallenato sounds.Amoeba Music, 6400 Sunset, Hollywood323/245-6400 ● amoebamusic.com

Thu 2/17 7 pmGallery Talk at the HammerPhotographer & filmmaker Charlie White leads a walkthrough of the new exhibition "All of this & nothing," the 6th in the Hammer’s biennial invitational exhibition series. Free w/admission.UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood213/309-4322 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Thu 2/17 7 pmPoetry at the Workmen's Circle"The Wonder of Words" Uncle Ruthie Buell shows you what a wonderful poet you already are. Readings from guests; donations accepted.Workmen's Circle, 1525 S Robertson Blvd, LA310/552-2007 ● circlesocal.org

Thu 2/17 7 pmReagan at Vroman'sMichael Schaller discusses his succinct new biography, "Ronald Reagan."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Thu 2/17 7 pmArt at LMUAn evening of conversation flowing from the current exhibition "The Art of Resistance," hosted by the Office of Black Student Services.Laband Art Gallery, Loyola Marymount, 1 LMU Drive, Westchester310/338-2731 ● lmu.edu

Thu 2/17 7 pmPoetry at the HammerHammer Readings: Rhoda Janzen reads from & discusses her work.

UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood213/309-4322 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Thu 2/17 7 pmFilm at USCScreenwriter Frank Pierson screens & discusses his 1975 Oscar winner "Dog Day Afternoon," one of American cinema’s most riveting crime pictures. RSVP online.Ray Stark Theatre, USC213/740-6786 ● usc.edu

Thu 2/17 7 pmCalifornia at SMPLIs our state ungovernable? Joe Mathews presents the book he co-authored, "The California Crackup & How We Can Fix It."Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Thu 2/17 7 pmLisa See at Cal LutheranThe bestselling author Lisa See reads from & talks about her novels, which explore stories that have been lost, forgotten or deliberately covered up.Lundring Center, Cal Lutheran U, 60 W Olsen Rd, Thousand Oaks805/493-3092 ● clunet.edu

Thu 2/17 7 pmOliver Stone in ClaremontScreening of director Stone’s 2010 documentary "South of the Border," focused on Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, followed by a Q&A with the director.`````Edmunds Ballroom, Pomona College, 150 E 4th St, Claremont909/607-2920 ● music.pomona.edu

Thu 2/17 7 pmSpace at JPLJPL's Sami Asmar speaks on "From Crust to Core, GRAIL Reveals the Lunar Interior," a look at NASA's Gravity Recovery & Interior Laboratory.Von Kármán Aud, JPL, 4800 Oak Grove Dr, Pasadena818/354-0112 ● jpl.nasa.gov

Thu 2/17 7:30 pmJazz at USCMusic from the Afro Latin American Jazz Ensemble, a unique 10- to 14-member ensemble featuring exclusively student-arranged music.Ground Zero Performance Cafe, USC213/740-2584 ● usc.edu

Thu 2/17 8 pmPoetry at LACMABrian Q Silver gives an introduction to the cultural & social roles of the ghazal, the primary genre of Urdu poetry, & actor Julian Sands reads English versions. Tix avail from 11 am.LA County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire, Miracle Mile 323/857-6512 ● lacma.org

Thu 2/17 9 pm (see 2/3)Comedy at the Downtown Independent

Thu 2/17 9 pm - 12 midnightFolk Jam at the Hyperion TavernJoin a monthly Old Time Jam hosted by Triple Chicken Foot - all levels welcome. Call to verify.Hyperion Tavern, 1941 Hyperion, LA323/665-1941 ● oldtimeisagoodtime.com

Fri 2/18 9 am (see 2/17)Music Talk at USC

Fri 2/18 12 noonAfrican Music at Scripps CollegeAnthony Perman plays Zimbabwean mbira music.Balch Auditorium, Scripps College, 1030 Columbia Ave, Claremont909/607-9372 ● scrippscollege.edu

Fri 2/18 1 pmMovie at the Palisades LibraryScreening of "The Young Victoria," with Emily Blunt.Palisades Branch of LAPL, 861 Alma Real Dr, Pacific Palisades 310/459-2754 ● lapl.org

Fri 2/18 1 pmTechnology at CSULALarry Dalton presents a public lecture on "Taking High Technology Beyond the iPhone."King Hall, Cal State Univ, 5151 State University Dr, LA323/343-5001 ● calstatela.edu

Fri 2/18 2 pm (see 2/17)Music Talk at USC

Fri 2/18 3:30 pmTeen Movie at the NoHo LibraryTGIF screens "Dinner for Schmucks," starring Steve Carell.North Hollywood Branch of LAPL, 5211 Tujunga Ave, NH818/766-7185 ● .lapl.org

Fri 2/18 4:30 pmStudent Recitals at OccidentalMOFA (Music on a Friday Afternoon), an informal student recital.Bird Studio, Occidental College, 1600 Campus Rd, Eagle Rock323/259-3649 ● oxy.edu

Fri 2/18 4 pm (see 2/14)Roots at SMPLPart 5 of the historic "Roots" miniseries, based on Alex Haley's autobiographical novel.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Fri 2/18 4 pmTheater in Claremont10-Minute Play Festival: New, original plays inspired by songs & selected by a panel of faculty, students & staff.`````Frank Dining Hall, Pomona College, 150 E 4th St, Claremont909/607-4385 ● music.pomona.edu

Fri 2/18 4:30 pmMusic at Scripps CollegeFamily Weekend Concert - "The Romantics" Soprano Anne Harley & pianist Gayle Blankenburg perform music of Strauss, Berlioz, Turina, & Rachmaninoff.Balch Auditorium, Scripps College, 1030 Columbia Ave, Claremont909/607-9372 ● scrippscollege.edu

Fri 2/18 5 pm Moonlit Hike in Franklin Canyon Full Moon Hike: Explore the canyon by moonlight on a moderately strenuous hike; look & listen for wildlife; & enjoy a spectacular view of the city. 2 hrs.Franklin Canyon Ranch, near Beverly Drive & Coldwater (call for directions)310/858-7272 ● nps.gov/samo

Fri 2/18 5:30 pmFull Moon Hike at CharmleeEnjoy the Malibu hills & ocean views, & look for night creatures under the magic of moonlight. 2 hrs. RSVP.Charmlee Natural Area, Encinal Canyon 4 miles from PCH (call for directions)310/317-1364 ● nps.gov/samo

Fri 2/18 6:30 - 9 pmOpening at G2 Gallery Reception for photographer Garth Lenz's exhibition "Boreal Future: Our Last Great Forest & the Threat of the Tar Sands." RSVP.G2 Gallery, 1503 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice 310/452-2842 ● theg2gallery.com

Fri 2/18 7 pmDancing at BN at the GroveCheryl Burke presents "Dancing Lessons How I Found Passion & Potential on the Dance Floor & in Life."Barnes & Noble, The Grove at Farmers Market, 3rd & Fairfax, LA323/525-0270 ● bn.com

Fri 2/18 7 pm Space at PCC JPL's Sami Asmar speaks on "From Crust to Core, GRAIL Reveals the Lunar Interior," a look at NASA's Gravity Recovery & Interior Laboratory.Vosloh Forum, Pasadena City College, 1570 E. Colorado Blvd818/354-0112 ● jpl.nasa.gov

Fri 2/18 7 pmBiography at Vroman'sSteve Swayne presents "Orpheus in Manhattan Orpheus in Manhattan: William Schuman & the Shaping of America's Musical Life."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Fri 2/18 7 pmArchitecture Talk at SCI-ArcArchitect Patrick Tighe & SCI-Arc Director Eric Owen Moss discuss the "Out of Memory" exhibition.SCI-Arc, 960 E 3rd St, Downtown LA213/613-2200 ● sciarc.edu

Fri 2/18 7 pmMemoir at Book SoupJasmin Darznik discusses "The Good Daughter: A Memoir of My Mother's Hidden Life."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Fri 2/18 7 pmConcert at the Norton Simon"From Stravinsky to Kandinsky: Music in the Time of the Blue Four" Pianist Polli Chambers-Salazar presents a program focusing on the art of the period. Free w/admission.Norton Simon Museum, 411 W Colorado, Pasadena626/844-6905 ● nortonsimon.org

Fri 2/18 7:30 pmConcert at OccidentalAn evening of music from the Halcyon Trio.Bird Studio, Occidental College, 1600 Campus Rd, Eagle Rock323/259-3649 ● oxy.edu

Fri 2/18 7:30 pmOrgan Recital at the Cathedral

Acclaimed organist Frederick Swann plays a recital. Call to verify if free.Our Lady of the Angels, 555 Temple, Downtown LA213/680-5205 ● olacathedral.org

Fri 2/18 8 pm (see 2/4)Recital at the Colburn

Sat 2/19 8 amBird Walk in the Baldwin HillsExplore the landscaped parkland & natural coastal scrub habitats of this convenient park with members of the Audubon Society.Kenneth Hahn State Rec Area, La Cienega S. of Rodeo, LA310/326-2473 ● laaudubon.org

Sat 2/19 8:30 amNature Walk in Caballero CanyonChaparral Chatter: Explore the coming together of winter & spring as early wildflowers burst into bloom. 3 hrs, RSVP.Caballero Canyon, Reseda Blvd S of the 101 (call for directions)818/345-6749 ● nps.gov/samo

Sat 2/19 9 amBird Walk at Malibu LagoonVisit beach, lagoon, marsh, riparian & urban habitats on a level, 3-mile outing; bring binoculars. Malibu Lagoon State Beach, PCH at Cross Creek, Malibu310/393-6235 ● nps.gov/samo

Sat 2/19 10 amKids' Movies in Culver CityThe 19th Annual Pan African Film & Arts Festival screens a special kids' festival screening. Call to verify.Culver Plaza Theatre, 9919 Washington Blvd, Culver City323/295-1706 ● PAFF.org

Sat 2/19 10:30 amLandscape Design at SMPLGreen Garden Academy: Lawn Be Gone, Part I. RSVP online.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Sat 2/19 11 amGardening at BN SMusan Heeger presents "From Seed to Skillet A Guide to Growing, Tending, Harvesting, & Cooking up Fresh, Healthy Food to Share with People You Love."Barnes & Noble, 1201 3rd Street, Santa Monica310/260-9110 ● bn.com

Sat 2/19 11 amMemoirizing at the West LA LibraryLearn how to capture your personal history & create a permanent legacy with expert videographer & life story coach Jeff Fromberg.West LA Branch of LAPL, 11360 Santa Monica Blvd, West LA 310/575-8323 ● lapl.org

Sat 2/19 11:30 am, 3 pm (see 2/5)Artist-at-Work at the Getty Villa

Sat 2/19 1 pmMusic at the Willowbrook LibraryTo celebrate Black History month, a program of classical African harp music with news & views on Africa yesterday, today, & tomorrow, by Baba the storyteller.Willowbrook Library, 11838 Wilmington Ave, LA323/564-5698 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/19 1 pm (see 2/14)Roots at SMPLPart 6 of the historic "Roots" miniseries, based on Alex Haley's autobiographical novel.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Sat 2/19 2 pmDrumming at the Hawthorne LibraryFor kids: An overview of the cultural history of percussion instruments, + hands-on-fun in a live jam session.Library, 12700 Grevillea Ave, Hawthorne310/679-8193 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/19 2 pmDay of Remembrance at JANMFormer Congressman & Transportation Sec. Norman Mineta addresses why Japanese Americans have a special responsibility to speak out against civil rights violations & the importance of reaffirming support for the Muslim American community.Japanese Amer. Nat’l Museum, 369 E 1st St, Little Tokyo213/625-0414 ~ janm.org

Sat 2/19 2 pmKids' Movie at the NoHo LibraryScreening of "Karate Kid," starring Jaden Smith. Free popcorn. North Hollywood Branch of LAPL, 5211 Tujunga Ave, NH818/766-7185 ● lapl.org

Sat 2/19 2 pmTheater at CAAMActor Harry Lennix conducts a workshop on the seminal Shakespearean characters of African descent, such as Othello & Titus. RSVP.Calif African American Museum, Exposition Park213/744-2024 ● caamuseum.org

Sat 2/19 2 pmLandscaping at the Agoura Hills LibraryHorticulturist & author Diane Beeler presents "Sustainable Landscaping: Designs & Tips From a Professional."Library, 29901 Ladyface Court, Agoura Hills818/889-2278 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/19 2 pmMusic at Trinity LutheranThe Previews series spotlights Beverly Hills Audition winners. Today, mezzo-soprano Geeta Novotny & pianist Soo-Yeon Park Chang.Trinity Lutheran Church, 1340 11th St, Manhattan Beach310/546-3106 ● palosverdes.com/tlcmusic

Sat 2/19 2 pmAusten at the Palisades LibraryRichard Foss of the Culinary Historians of So Cal presents "Drinking with Jane Austen - Syllabubs, Negus, Punch, & Other Liquid Delights of the English Regency Period."Palisades Branch of LAPL, 861 Alma Real Dr, Pacific Palisades 310/459-2754 ● lapl.org

Sat 2/19 2 pmLA Architecture at LAPLThe 19th annual Marie Northrop Lectures series presents author, journalist & radio commentator Kevin Roderick, speaking on "Architects & Architecture of Los Angeles, from Adobe to High-rise."Taper Auditorium, LA Public Library, 5th & Flower, Downtown LA213/228-7025 ● lapl.org

Sat 2/19 2 – 3 pm

Nature at the Nat’l Park CenterThe Natil Park Service presents a talk on "Encounters with Wildlife."Visitor Center, 401 W Hillcrest Dr, Thousand Oaks805/370-2301 ● nps.gov/samo

Sat 2/19 2 - 4 pmKids' Workshops in Culver CityThe 19th Annual Pan African Film & Arts Festival presents a special interactive workshop for kids. Call to verify.Mayme Clayton Library & Museum, 4130 Overland Ave, Culver City323/295-1706 ● PAFF.org

Sat 2/19 2 – 6 pmMaster Class at PepperdineAcclaimed musician Christopher Parkening leads a Classical Guitar Master Class.School of Law, Pepperdine University, 24255 PCH, Malibu310/506-6589 ● pepperdine.edu

Sat 2/19 2:30 pmCooking at the Temple City Library"Great. Light. Tao." Learn new recipes & enjoy a food tasting.Library, 5939 Golden West Ave, Temple City626/285-2136 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/19 2:30 pmPhotography at G2 Gallery Award-winning photographer Garth Lenz gives a presentation exploring the Canadian Boreal Forest & the Alberta Tar Sands. RSVP.G2 Gallery, 1503 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice 310/452-2842 ● theg2gallery.com

Sat 2/19 2:30 pmTea at the Live Oak LibraryLinda Louis of Bana Tea Company presents "The Art of Tea," with history & customs, + a tasting.Live Oak Library, 4153-55 E Live Oak Ave, Arcadia626/446-8803 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/19 3 pmMagic at the West Covina LibraryLearn to perform your own magic tricks with Magician Tony Daniels at a workshop for kids & teens ages 8 & up. RSVP.Library, 1601 W Covina Pkwy, West Covina626/962-3541 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/19 3 pm (see also 1 pm)Roots at SMPLJournalist Janice Rhoshalle Littlejohn leads a discussion on the cultural & historic impact of the landmark miniseries, Alex Haley's Roots, with special guests LeVar Burton, Louis Gossett, Jr. & Lynne Moody. Tix avail from noon.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Sat 2/19 3:30 pmDrawing at the GettyFamily Drawing Hour: Tremendous Trees - Be inspired by majestic trees in photography, painting, & drawing, then draw your own. Sign up from 3 pm at Info Desk.Central Garden, Getty Center, Brentwood310/440-7300 ● getty.edu

Sat 2/19 5 pmAuthor at Book SoupRalph Sasson reads his debut novel, "The Intimates."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd

310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Sat 2/19 5 pmLeiber & Stoller at Vroman'sJerry Leiber & Mike Stoller present their joint memoir, "Hound Dog: The Leiber & Stoller Autobiography."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Sat 2/19 7:30 pmMiddle East at Whittier CollegeAmbassador Daniel C Kurtzer deliver the 2011 Feinberg Lecture, "The US & the Arab-Israeli Conflict: The Elusive Quest for Peace." Call to verify if free.Villalobos Hall, Whittier College, 1304 E Philadelphia St, Whittier562/907-4219 ● whittier.edu

Sat 2/19 7:30 pmCoffee House in Granada HillsOnion Bagel Song Circle: Join a relaxed open mic night & jam session for musicians & other performers (formerly at the Onion). Call to verify.Beth Torah, 16651 Rinaldi St, Granada Hills 818/342-1073 ● http://ca039.urj.net

Sat 2/19 7:30 pmConcert at OccidentalAn evening of music from the Caltech-Occidental Concert Band.Thorne Hall, Occidental College, 1600 Campus Rd, Eagle Rock323/259-3649 ● oxy.edu

Sat 2/19 8 pmConcert at LMUWojciech Kocyan gives a faculty piano recital.Murphy Recital Hall, Loyola Marymount, 1 LMU Drive, Westchester310/338-5386 ● lmu.edu

Sat 2/19 8 pmConcert in ClaremontTwo Pianos: Karl & Margaret Kohn, with percussionists Jason Goodman & Yuri Inoo, perform music of perform Castaldi, Boulez, & Bartók.`````Bridges Hall, 150 E 4th St, Claremont909/607-2671 ● music.pomona.edu

Sun 2/20 8 amBirdwalk in the Ballona WetlandsDiscover the shorebirds of the Marina with the Audubon Society. Meet at Del Rey Lagoon parking lot.Pacific Ave off Culver Blvd, Playa Del Rey323/876-0202 ● laaudubon.org

Sun 2/20 8 amBird Count at Headwaters CornerGreat Backyard Bird Count: Beginners & experts are invited to join the annual national event. Bring binoculars if possible; RSVP.Calabasas High School, 22855 Mulholland, Calabasas818/591-1701 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/20 8 amBird Walk in Eaton CanyonA serious but fun search for seasonal birds. Bring binoculars, water, & a shade hat; no dogs please.Eaton Canyon Nature Ctr, 1750 N. Altadena Dr, Pasadena626/398-5420 ● pasadenaaudubon.org

Sun 2/20 9 am

Nature Ramble at Sooky GoldmanNature Unplugged: Tune into nature on an easy hike with a naturalist. 2 hrs.Sooky Goldman Nature Center, near Coldwater & Mulholland (call for directions)310/858-3090 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/20 9:30 amWalk in Paramount Ranch Movie Magic: Movie Magic See how illusions & hard work turn a dusty set into a realistic town on an easy-paced walk. 1 hr.Paramount Ranch, Cornell Way near Kanan Road (call for directions)805/370-2301 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/20 10 amGet Sum Dim Sum Ride from Flying PigeonMeet the Flying Pigeon LA crew for a fun, slow-paced, group ride to a dim sum restaurant in the LA area; bring money for food & (possible) train fare. Call or sign up for updates for start times.Flying Pigeon, 3714 N Figueroa St, Highland Park213/909-8986 ● flyingpigeon-la.com

Sun 2/20 10 amNature Walk at Sooky GoldmanA Turtle’s Race Around the Lake: Naturalists Lucy & Rebecca lead an easy 1-mile walk & talk about our local ecosystem. 1.5 hrs.Sooky Goldman Nature Center, near Coldwater & Mulholland (call for directions)310/858-858-7272 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/20 10 amNature Walk in Cold CreekLearn how nature adapts to cold weather in a pristine chaparral-filled, grotto-studded canyon. 2.5 hrs.Cold Creek Canyon Preserve, near Topanga & Mulholland (call for directions)818/346-9620 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/20 10 am - 12 noon & 1 - 3 pmNative Culture at SatwiwaCelebrate Native American arts by creating a prayer stick with Michael Williams.Satwiwa Native American Center, Via Goleta, Lynn Rd 5 miles S of 101 (call for directions)805/370-2301 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/20 10 am - 1 pmMusic in SMTake a break from shopping the market for live music from the Back Boners.Farmers Market, 2640 Main St, Santa Monica310/458-8712 ● farmersmarket.santa-monica.org

Sun 2/20 11 am – 1 pm (see 2/6)Family Arts at LACMA

Sun 2/20 11 am - 5 pmFamily Festival at the AutryCreate Your Own Masterpiece: A day of Western culture, with stories, tours, carts, games, & live music. Free w/admission. Museum of the Amer West, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park323/667-2000 ● autry-museum.org

Sun 2/20 11:30 am, 3 pm (see 2/5)Artist-at-Work at the Getty Villa

Sun 2/20 1 pm

Musician at Vroman'sTaboo of the Black Eyed Peas signs "Fallin’ Up: My Story." See website for access rules.Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Sun 2/20 1 pm (see 2/6)Winter Walk in Topanga State Park

Sun 2/20 1 - 3 pmHistory at Los EncinosLiving History Day: working blacksmith shop, 19th Century kids' games, traditional music, & volunteers in authentic historical costume.Los Encinos State Hist. Park, 16756 Moorpark St, Encino818/784-4849 ● los-encinos.org

Sun 2/20 1 - 3 pm (see 2/6)Artist-at-Work at the Getty

Sun 2/20 1 - 3 pmWestern Music at the AutryGrab your guitar, fiddle, spoons, or bass, & jam with members of the Western Music Association.Museum of the Amer West, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park323/667-2000 ● autry-museum.org

Sun 2/20 1 – 4 pmPoland at PepperdineHistorian of Europe Jonathan Webber speaks about the “Traces of Memory” exhibition he created with photographer Chris Schwarz. Reception & dialogue follows.Payson Library, Pepperdine University, 24255 PCH, Malibu310/506-6589 ● pepperdine.edu

Sun 2/20 1 - 5 pm (see 2/6)History Tour at Rancho Los Cerritos

Sun 2/20 2 pmGallery Talk at the HammerPainter Dianna Molzan leads a walkthrough of the new exhibition "All of this & nothing," the 6th in the Hammer’s biennial invitational exhibition series. Free w/admission.UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood213/309-4322 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Sun 2/20 2 pmConcert at the Nixon Library: Orange County Preservation BandsNixon Library, 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd, Yorba Linda714/993-5075 ● nixonlibraryfoundation.org

Sun 2/20 2 pmAuthor at CAAMDirector, screenwriter, & novelist Gary Hardwick discusses his new novel "Dark Town Redemption." RSVP.Calif African American Museum, Exposition Park213/744-2024 ● caamuseum.org

Sun 2/20 2 pmOpera Talk at the San Marino LibraryLA Opera’s community educators give an audio-visual presentation about Britten’s "The Turn of the Screw."Crowell Library, 1890 Huntington Dr, San Marino626/300-0777 ● sanmarinopl.org

Sun 2/20 3 pmConcert in Claremont

Soprano Gwendolyn Lytle joins pianist Genevieve Feiwen Lee in a program of songs from Spain & Latin America by Abril, Garcia, Sierra & others.`````Bridges Hall, 150 E 4th St, Claremont909/607-2671 ● music.pomona.edu

Sun 2/20 3 pmMovie at USCScreening of "Green Guys," followed by a Q&A with writer/director/producer Cole Mueller & producers Sean Meier & Ryan Bragg. RSVP.George Lucas Building 108, USC213/740-2330 ● usc.edu

Sun 2/20 3 pmMusic at Mt OliveThe 3rd Sunday classical concert series features classical vocalists & instrumentalists along with Pat Maimone at the organ & piano, with patriotic organ music to celebrate President's Weekend.Mt Olive Lutheran, 1343 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica310/452-1116 ● mtolivelutheranchurch.org

Sun 2/20 3 - 4 pmArt Talk at PMCAAuto Club historians & exhibition curators Matthew W Roth & Morgan P Yates lead a tour of the exhibition "Scenic View Ahead." Free w/admission.Pasadena Museum of Calif Art, 490 E Union St, Pasadena626/568-3665 ● pmcaonline.org

Sun 2/20 3 - 5 pmCeltic Music at CTMSThe monthly Celtic Session/Tune Workshop brings together players from the Celtic Arts Center & Scottish Fiddlers to play & learn tunes from the various Celtic traditions. CTMS Center, 16953 Ventura Blvd, Encino818/817-7756 ● ctmsfolkmusic.org

Sun 2/20 3:30 pm (also 2/6)Drawing at the Getty

Sun 2/20 4 pmComedy at Book SoupDrew Friedman presents his favorite historic human oddities in "Drew Friedman's Sideshow Freaks."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Sun 2/20 4 pmConcert at USCAn afternoon recital featuring performances by Thornton School alumni in a tribute to Dan Lewis, legendary head of the orchestra & conducting programs. RSVP.Alfred Newman Recital Hall, USC213/740-6474 ● usc.edu

Sun 2/20 4 pmMaster Class at Cal LutheranCLU’s String Trio & other Junior Chamber Music of So Cal ensembles perform for pianist Robert Edward Thies, who will coach them in a master class. Overton Hall, Cal Lutheran U, 60 W Olsen Rd, Thousand Oaks805/493-3092 ● clunet.edu

Sun 2/20 5 pmJazz Vespers at All Saints PasadenaA melding of old & new traditions, with music from composer, arranger & jazz pianist Alan Broadbent.All Saints Church, 132 N Euclid Ave, Pasadena

626/796-1172 ● allsaints-pas.org

Sun 2/20 6 pm Concert at LACMAThe Young Musicians Foundation Debut Orchestra performs music of Villa-Lobos, Schoenberg, & Copland.Bing Theater, LA County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire, Miracle Mile323/857-6234 ● sundayslive.org

Sun 2/20 7 pmConcert at the Cathedral"Sing & Rejoice!" The annual Mark Thallander Foundation Festival features choirs, soloists, & a 100-piece festival orchestra in a special concert. Freewill offering.Our Lady of the Angels, 555 Temple, Downtown LA213/680-5205 ● olacathedral.org

Sun 2/20 7 pmMovies at USCSCA Alumni Screening Series screens Will Canon's new feature "Brotherhood." RSVP.Ray Stark Theatre, USC213/740-2330 ● cinema.usc.edu

Sun 2/20 7 pmConcert in Rolling HillsThe Peninsula Symphony & cellist Tamara Bohlin present "Franz Frenzy," with music of von Suppé, Haydn, Berwald, & Liszt.Covenant Church, 2222 Palos Verdes Drive N, Rolling Hills Estates310/544-0320 ● pensym.org

Presidents Day

Mon 2/21 10 am - 3 pmPresidents' Day at the Reagan LibraryFun for the family, with presidential look-alikes discussing their lives, story-telling, scavenger hunts, & kids' activities.Reagan Library, 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley800/410-8354 ● reaganfoundation.org

Mon 2/21 11 am - 5 pmPresidents Day at the Nixon LibraryBring the entire family to meet & hear a Mount Rushmore of Presidents at a roundtable discussion of America’s role in the world during their term in office. Museum open free.Nixon Library, 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd, Yorba Linda714/993-5075 ● nixonlibraryfoundation.org

Mon 2/21 12 noon – 8 pmMusic at LACMAFree day at the museum, with live performances from the Bohemians at 12:30 & 2:45 pm.LA County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire, Miracle Mile 323/857-6010 ● lacma.org

Mon 2/21 6:30 pmDance at the Beach HouseChoreographer Donna Sternberg leads an hour-long participatory workshop on dancemaking. RSVP.Annenberg Beach House, 415 PCH, Santa Monica310/458-4904 ● beachhouse.smgov.net

Mon 2/21 7 pmFilm at Talking Stick7 Dudley Cinema: Ishan Shapiro & Marija Coneva screen rare films by Richard Leacock.

Talking Stick Lounge, 1411 Lincoln Blvd, Venice310/450.6052 ● laughtears.com

Tue 2/22 11 amArtist Talk at OtisFine Arts presents a lecture by artist Jennifer Steinkamp.Forum, Otis College, 9045 Lincoln, Westchester310/665-6827 ● otis.edu

Tue 2/22 11:15 amKamau Daaood at SMCThe performance poet & community arts activist reflects on the eclectic musical landscape of the vibrant community of Leimert Park, also the name of his new album, which fuses Griot funk, straight ahead, blues, hip hop & hard bop.Theatre Arts Main Stage, Santa Monica College, 1900 Pico, SM310/434-4303 ● smc.edu

Tue 2/22 11:15 amSpace Race at SMC"First in Space, but Losing the Race" Jean Gebman addresses lessons from the space race of the 1960's.Science Room 140, Santa Monica College, 1900 Pico, SM310/434-4303 ● smc.edu

Tue 2/22 2 pmMovies at GPL: Harold & Maude (1971)Central Library, 222 E Harvard St, Glendale818/548-2042 ● library.ci.glendale.ca.us

Tue 2/22 2 pmArtist Talk at the HammerWriter & artist David Robbins investigates the intersections between art, entertainment, & comedy. Tix avail. from 6 pm.UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood213/309-4322 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Tue 2/22 3:45 pmPuppets at the Montana LibraryFor kids: The Scott Land Marionettes present a puppet show.Montana Branch of SMPL, 1704 Montana, Santa Monica310/829-7081 ● smpl.org

Tue 2/22 3:15 pmFilm at CSULAThe Asian Pacific Islander Student Resource Center screens the humorous documentary "The Grace Lee Project."U-SU, 2nd floor, Cal State Univ, 5151 State University Dr, LA323/343-5001 ● calstatela.edu

Tue 2/22 4 pmPoetry at the East LA LibraryFor teens: A night of poetry with Spencer Allen, also known as the "Spin Doctor," & his unique & refreshing brand of poetry.East LA Library, 4837 E 3rd St, LA323/264-0155 ● colapublib.org

Tue 2/22 4 pmTibet at USCTim Johnson discusses his book "Tragedy in Crimson," an extraordinary account of the cat-&-mouse game embroiling China & the Tibetan exile community.Davidson Conference Center, USC213/821-4382 ● usc.edu

Tue 2/22 4 pmTeen Movie at the Panorama City LibraryJust for Teens screens "Salt," with Angelina Jolie.

Panorama City Branch of LAPL, 14345 Roscoe Blvd, Panorama City818/894-4071 ● .lapl.org

Tue 2/22 4 pmTransportation at USCA panel discusses "The Infrastructural Human: In Transit," a look at how our systems of transportation shape us as individuals & as members of a collectivity.Doheny Memorial Library, USC213/740-5746 ● usc.edu

Tue 2/22 4:15 pmAuthor at Pomona CollegeSalvador Plascencia reads from his book "The People of Paper" (2006), named a Best Book by the LA Times & others.Crookshank 108, Pomona College, 420 N Harvard Ave, Claremont909/607-2212 ● http://emsweb.claremont.edu

Tue 2/22 4:30 pmAfrican Writing at UCLASenegalese Francophone novelist Ken Bugul speaks for the "50 Years of African Writing: Novels, Filmmaking, Criticism" series.Bunche Hall 10383, UCLA310/825-3686 ● international.ucla.edu

Tue 2/22 6 pmMovies at the Memorial LibraryTuesday Nights @ the Movies screens "Waking Sleeping Beauty," a documentary about the fabled animation studios of Walt Disney.Memorial Branch of LAPL, 4625 W Olympic Blvd, LA323/938-2732 ● lapl.org

Tue 2/22 6 - 8 pmMiddle Eastern Music at UCLA"My Heart is in the East" Yuval Ron gives a lecture/demo on Sacred Israeli Music, with R. Hagai Batzri & Jamie Papish.Popper Theater, Schoenberg Building, UCLA310-825-9646 ● international.ucla.edu

Tue 2/22 6 - 8:45 pmFolk Music in DowneyThe monthly round-robin style jam welcomes acoustic instrument players, singers & listeners of all levels. Percussion instruments available to borrow. Community Center, 7810 Quill Drive, Downey562/861-7049 ● http://tiny.cc/DFMJ

Tue 2/22 6:30 pmFamily Night at the Monrovia LibraryExplore African American history & heritage through stories, film & more.Monrovia Public Library, 321 S Myrtle Ave, Monrovia626/256-8274 ● cityofmonrovia.org

Tue 2/22 7 pmDancing at Book SoupCheryl Burke discusses "Dancing Lessons: How I Found Passion & Potential on the Dance Floor & in Life."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Tue 2/22 7 pmGourds at Headwaters CornerLearn through classes & demonstrations how to decorate & embellish gourds, plus tips for growing your own. Headwaters Corner, 23075 Mulholland Highway (call for directions)818/702-8020 ● nps.gov/samo

Tue 2/22 7 pmMovies at USCOutside the Box (Office) screens "I Saw the Devil," a stunningly accomplished tale of murder & revenge from Korean genre master Kim Jee-woon. RSVP.Ray Stark Theatre, USC213/740-2330 ● cinema.usc.edu

Thu 2/22 7 pm Cambodia at the Getty Paul Jett speaks about the analysis & conservation of Khmer bronzes on view at the Getty & the establishment of conservation programs at the National Museum of Cambodia. RSVP.Williams Auditorium, Getty Center, Brentwood 310/440-7300 ● getty.edu

Tue 2/22 7:30 pmDrag Racing at the PetersenRacers Bob Muravez, Jerry Darien, & Jack Beckman discuss the past, present & future of drag racing. Free w/admission; RSVP.Petersen Museum, 6060 Wilshire Blvd, Miracle Mile323/964-6347 ● petersen.org

Tue 2/22 8 pmPoetry in RB: Roy K Johnston + open readingCoffee Cartel, 1820 S Catalina Ave, Redondo Beach310/316-6554 ● redondopoets.com

Tue 2/22 9 pmPoetry at the Cobalt: Bruce Williams + open reading Cobalt Café, 22047 Sherman Way, Canoga Park818/348-3789 ● poetrysuperhighway.com/cobalt

Tue 2/22 7 pmHealth at SMPLUCLA rheumatologist Rebecca Gordon discusses risk factors, preventive measures, screenings & treatments for osteoporosis.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Tue 2/22 7 pmDambisa Moyo at LAPLAloud presents the influential young Zambia-born economist in conversation with KCRW's Matt Miller on "How the West Was Lost." RSVP.Taper Auditorium, LA Public Library, 5th & Flower, Downtown LA213/228-7025 ● lapl.org

Wed 2/23 11 amPoetry at OtisFine Arts presents a lecture by filmmaker Johan Grimonprez. Forum, Otis College, 9045 Lincoln, Westchester310/665-6827 ● otis.edu

Wed 2/23 12 noonConcert at Pasadena PresbyterianA lunchtime concert from the Alma Nova Duo on flute & guitar.Pasadena Presb. Church, 585 E. Colorado Bl, Pasadena626/793-2191 ● ppc.net

Wed 2/23 12 noon - 2 pmMiddle Eastern Music at UCLA"My Heart is in the East" Yuval Ron gives a lecture/demo on Bedouin & Israeli folk music, with Barak Marshal, Margalit Oved, & Jamie Papish.Faculty Center, UCLA310-825-9646 ● international.ucla.edu

Wed 2/23 12:30 pmArt Talk at the HammerA lunchtime chat focused on one artwork; today, Kerry Tribe's "Parnassius Mnemosyne" (2010).UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood310/443-7000 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Wed 2/23 12:30 pmConcert at BiolaMusic at Noon: Tenor Tyler Thompson, cellist Erica Erenyi, & pianist Emily Helvey give a joint concert of solos, duos, & trios. Lansing Hall, Biola U, 13800 Biola Ave, La Mirada562/903-4892 ● http://academics.biola.edu/music

Wed 2/23 12:45 pmOrgan Recital at the CathedralA short organ concert from guest organist Chris Dekker.Our Lady of the Angels, 555 Temple, Downtown LA213/680-5205 ● olacathedral.org

Wed 2/23 1 pmConcert at LAVCMusic from the Avon Street Quintet.Music Bldg 112, LA Valley College, 7800 Fulton Ave, Valley Village818/778-5633 ● lavc.cc.ca.us

Wed 2/23 1 pmRomantic Movies at PPL"Just Wright" (2010), with Queen Latifah & Common.Library, 285 E Walnut St, Pasadena626/744-4052 ● ci.pasadena.ca.us/library

Wed 2/23 3 pmStories at the Graham LibraryFor families: Black History Month Celebration with Michael McCarty.Graham Library, 1900 E Firestone Blvd, LA323/582-2903 ● colapublib.org

Wed 2/23 3:15 pmDocumentary at CSULAThe Pan African Student Resource Center screens part 3 of "Rise & Fall of Jim Crow."U-SU, 2nd floor, Cal State Univ, 5151 State University Dr, LA323/343-5001 ● calstatela.edu

Wed 2/23 4 pmPuppets at the WeHo LibraryFor families: The Party Puppet Show presents musical numbers & comedy sketches.Library, 715 N San Vicente Blvd, West Hollywood310/652-5340 ● colapublib.org

Wed 2/23 4 pmEvolution at Cal LutheranJoel W. Martin presents "The Prism & the Rainbow: Acceptance of Evolution Among Mainstream US Christian Denominations."Lundring Center, Cal Lutheran U, 60 W Olsen Rd, Thousand Oaks805/493-3693 ● clunet.edu

Wed 2/23 4 pmFamily Film at the Buena Vista LibraryScreening of "Shrek Forever After: The Final Chapter."Buena Vista Branch of BPL, 300 N Buena Vista St, Burbank818/238-5620 ● BurbankLibrary.com

Wed 2/23 4 pm

Andrei Codrescu at UCLAThe award-winning poet, novelist, essayist, & NPR commentator speaks on "Forgetting Stalin & Ceausescu: Post-1989 Romania in Books & Films."Faculty Center, UCLA310/825-4811 ● international.ucla.edu

Wed 2/23 4:15 pmFeminism at Pomona CollegePiya Chatterjee speaks on "Translating Witness: Antiviolence, Race & Women's Grassroots Organizing."Crookshank 108, Pomona College, 420 N Harvard Ave, Claremont909/607-7856 ● http://emsweb.claremont.edu

Wed 2/23 4:30 pmKaren Bass at USCCongresswoman Bass, a prominent national leader in health policy, discusses issues surrounding aging in place.Town & Gown, USC213/740-1887 ● usc.edu

Wed 2/23 5:30 pmChristo at OccidentalWorld-renowned artists Christo & his late wife Jeanne-Claude, creators of large-scale, temporary outdoor artworks, will be awarded honorary degrees at a public ceremony.Thorne Hall, Occidental College, 1600 Campus Rd, Eagle Rock323/259-2990 ● oxy.edu

Wed 2/23 7 pmMemoir at Book SoupSharrie Williams discusses "The Maybelline Story: & The Spirited Family Dynasty Behind It All."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Wed 2/23 7 pmScience at the Valencia LibraryFor families: Join Mad Science as they present a fun show for all ages, with air pressure, fire, bubbling potions, & more.Library, 23743 W Valencia Blvd, Santa Clarita661/259-8942 ● colapublib.org

Wed 2/23 7 pmDocumentary at CLUReel Justice Film Series screens "The Lottery," uncovering the failures of the traditional public school system & revealing how parents attempt to flee the system every year. Roth Nelson Room, Cal Lutheran U, 60 W Olsen Rd, Thousand Oaks805/493-3693 ● clunet.edu

Wed 2/23 7 pmArchitecture Talk at SCI-ArcA panel including Jean Michel Crettaz, Craig Hodgetts, Lance Putnam, Curtis Roads, Steve Roden & David Rosenboom discusses "Polytopes: The Architecture of Soundscapes."SCI-Arc, 960 E 3rd St, Downtown LA213/613-2200 ● sciarc.edu

Wed 2/23 7 pmFilm at Pomona CollegeScreening of documentaries from Vietnam.Hahn Building 108, Pomona College, 420 N Harvard Ave, Claremont909/607-7856 ● http://emsweb.claremont.edu

Wed 2/23 7 pm Andrei Codrescu at the Getty

The award-winning poet, essayist, & commentator talks about his book "The Poetry Lesson," art, & life. RSVP.Williams Auditorium, Getty Center, Brentwood 310/440-7300 ● getty.edu

Wed 2/23 7:30 pmCafe Inquiry at CFIAn evening of conversation with a guest speaker & fellow rational thinkers, scientists, authors, & interesting folks. Call to verify.Center for Inquiry-West, 4773 Hollywood Blvd, Hwd323/666-9797 ● cfiwest.org

Wed 2/23 7:30 pmHistory at the HuntingtonBruce Moran speaks on "Better Living through Alchemy: Private Lives & Applied Science in the Early Modern Era."Friends’ Hall, Huntington Library, 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino626/405-2100 ● huntington.org

Wed 2/23 7:30 pmPoetry at OtisGraduate Writing presents Adriano Spatola, reading from his highly praised novel "The Porthole."Forum, Otis College, 9045 Lincoln, Westchester310/665-6892 ● otis.edu

Wed 2/23 7:30 pmAging at MOCAZócalo Public Square presents best-selling writer & social commentator Susan Jacoby, asking "Is Old Age Over?" RSVP.Museum of Contemporary Art, 250 S Grand Ave, Downtown LAzocalopublicsquare.org

Wed 2/23 7:30 pmFilm at Tia Chucha'sREELism Film Nights presents "America’s Dream," with moving short stories penned by noted black authors, looking at black America in the 1930s - 50s. Donations accepted.Tia Chucha's, 13197 Gladstone Ave, Sylmar818/528-4511 ● tiachucha.com

Wed 2/23 7:30 pmJazz at USCThe Concert Jazz Orchestra presents an evening of jazz standards & new compositions.Alfred Newman Recital Hall, USC213/740-2584 ● usc.edu

Wed 2/23 7:30 pmDocumentary at the Warner Grand"Locked Out" ILWU Local 13 & Harry Bridges Institute screen Joan Sekler's riveting documentary of a "David & Goliath" struggle by 560 unionized miners in Boran, CA. Q&A with filmmaker follows.Warner Grand Theatre, 478 W 6th St, San Pedro310/833-4813 ● grandvision.org

Thu 2/24 10 am (also 6:30 pm)Movie at the San Marino Library: The StingCrowell Library, 1890 Huntington Dr, San Marino626/300-0777 ● sanmarinopl.org

Thu 2/24 11 amArtist Talk at Otis El SegundoGraduate Fine Arts presents a lecture by artist Koki Tanaka.Otis Grad Studios, 1550 E Franklin Ave, El Segundo310/665-6892 ● otis.edu

Thu 2/24 11 am (see 2/10)Music at the Colburn

Thu 2/24 12 noonChocolate at the Westlake LibraryLady Chocolatier celebrates February with a talk on the history of chocolate (and why we love it so much), + samples to enjoy.Library, 31220 Oak Crest Dr, Westlake Village818/865-9230 ● colapublib.org

Thu 2/24 12 noon (see 2/3)Organ Recital at FCC

Thu 2/24 12 noonJewish Studies at UCLAAyala Fader speaks on "What do Middle-Aged Orthodox Jewish Women Want?: Self-Help Audiocassettes, Language, & Ethics." RSVP. Royce Hall 314, UCLA310/267-5327 ● cjs.ucla.edu

Thu 2/24 2 pmMovie at the NoHo LibraryScreening of "Glory," with Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington, & Morgan Freeman, for Black History Month. North Hollywood Branch of LAPL, 5211 Tujunga Ave, NH818/766-7185 ● lapl.org

Thu 2/24 3 pm (also 7:30 pm)Behind the Scenes at the HuntingtonRobert C Ritchie provides an inside look at a side of The Huntington that the general public never sees: the research activity that’s at the heart of the institution. RSVP.Friends’ Hall, Huntington Library, 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino626/405-2100 ● huntington.org

Thu 2/24 3:30 pmKids' Movie at La Pintoresca Library: Sorcerer's ApprenticeLa Pintoresca Branch of PPL, 1355 N Raymond Ave, Pasadena626/744-7268 ● ci.pasadena.ca.us/library

Thu 2/24 4 pmCrafts at SMPLLearn how to sew & give back to your community! This program teaches a new sewing technique each month & encourages donation of the results to needy groups.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Thu 2/24 4 pmArts Forum at OtisOtis & The Music Center present a symposium on the role of the arts in developing students' 21st century learning skills. RSVP.Forum, Otis College, 9045 Lincoln, Westchester310/665-6850 ● otis.edu

Thu 2/24 4 - 6 pmMarriage at UCLAAttorney David Boies, historian Nancy Cott, & MV Lee Badgett discuss the issue of same-sex marriage for the "Why History Matters" series.Faculty Center, UCLA310/825-0590 ● women.ucla.edu/csw

Thu 2/24 4 - 6 pmNigeria at the FowlerIntroduction & screening of "The 13 Months of Sukur: Africa’s First World Heritage Cultural Landscape" (2010), made over the course of 17 years.Fowler Museum of Cultural History, UCLA

310/825-4169 ● fmch.ucla.edu

Thu 2/24 4 - 6 pmMiddle Eastern Music at UCLA"The Magic Carpet" Yuval Ron gives a lecture/demo on the music of the Yemenite-Jews in Israel, with Ahmed El Asmer, Maya Haddi, & Jamie Papish.Schoenberg Building 1440, UCLA310-825-9646 ● international.ucla.edu

Thu 2/24 4:15 pmArt Talk at Scripps CollegeAndrew Zimmerman presents "Primitive Art, Primitive Accumulation, & the Origin of the Work of Art in German New Guinea."Vita Nova Lecture Hall, Scripps College, 1030 Columbia Ave, Claremont909/607-4690 ● scrippscollege.edu

Thu 2/24 5 pmOffbeat Movies at UCLAThe Crank presents films that should, or can only, be seen on the big screen: "Syskonbadd 1782, aka My Sister My Love" (1966).Melnitz Hall J. Bridges Theater, UCLA213/309-4322 ● http://thecrankblog.wordpress.com

Thu 2/24 6 pmMusic at the FowlerFowler Out Loud: The Le J Trio, a versatile musical partnership of ethnomusicology students, blends jazz, hip-hop, & funk in an evening of original music.Fowler Museum of Cultural History, UCLA310/825-4169 ● fmch.ucla.edu

Thu 2/24 6 pmBusiness at LAPLA hands-on Business Plan workshop teaching how to best identify goals & objectives in relation to marketing, sales, distribution, management & finance. LA Public Library, 5th & Flower, Downtown LA213/228-7110 ● lapl.org

Thu 2/24 6 pmDesign Talk at UCLAMargaret Wertheim of the Institute for Figuring talks about her group's work enhancing the public understanding of figures & figuring techniques.Broad Arts Center, EDA, UCLA310/825-9007 ● dma.ucla.edu

Thu 2/24 6 - 9 pm (see 2/10)Art Night at LACE

Thu 2/24 6:30 pmMovie at the San Marino Library: The StingCrowell Library, 1890 Huntington Dr, San Marino626/300-0777 ● sanmarinopl.org

Thu 2/24 6:30 pmPhotography Talk at the AnnenbergPaul Nicklen talks about using his camera to reveal the nature of a world melting away under human-induced global warming. RSVP.Annenberg Space for Photography, 2000 Avenue of the Stars, Century City213/403-3000 ● annenbergspaceforphotography.org

Thu 2/24 6:30 pmGallery Talk at MOCA GeffenCurator Alma Ruiz leads a walkthrough of "Suprasensorial: Experiments in Light, Color, & Space." Galleries open free.

Museum of Contemporary Art, 152 N Central, Little Tokyo213/621-1745 ● moca.org

Tue 2/24 6:30 pmFishing at the Playa Vista LibraryLearn how to fish the local waters appropriately from the Marina Anglers, a non-profit organization.Playa Vista Branch of LAPL, 6400 Playa Vista Dr, LA310/437-6680 ● lapl.org

Thu 2/24 7 pmTibet at Vroman'sTim Johnson presents "Tragedy in Crimson: How the Dalai Lama Conquered the World but Lost the Battle with China."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Thu 2/24 7 pmPhotography at the Buena Vista LibraryReception for the Burbank Photography Contest, with a slide show of the winning photos + awards.Buena Vista Branch of BPL, 300 N Buena Vista St, Burbank818/238-5620 ● BurbankLibrary.com

Thu 2/24 7 pmDirectors at Book SoupRobert K Elder presents "The Film That Changed My Life: 30 Directors on Their Epiphanies in the Dark."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Thu 2/24 7 pmJazz at USCThe Thornton Jazz Honors Combo headlines an ongoing series featuring a variety of student jazz ensembles.Ground Zero Performance Cafe, USC213/740-2584 ● usc.edu

Thu 2/24 7 pmGreen Films at Pomona CollegeScreening of the documentary "Gasland," as part of People | Places | Spaces - the Sustainability Film Festival.Rose Hills Theater, Pomona College, 170 E 6th St, Claremont909/621-8283 ● pomona.edu/museum

Thu 2/24 7 pmWriting in Sierra MadreDenise Clemen conducts a memoir writing workshop as part of the "One City, One Book" project.Library, 440 W Sierra Madre Blvd, Sierra Madre26/355-7186 ● sierramadre.lib.ca.us

Thu 2/24 7 pmArt Talk at SMMOANew York painter Terry Winters speaks about Al Taylor & his work.Santa Monica Museum of Art, Bergamot Station, 2525 Michigan Ave, SM310/586-6488 ● smmoa.org

Thu 2/24 7 pmAndy Summers at USCThe guitarist of The Police + classical guitarist Benjamin Verdery perform selections from their new album, First You Build a Cloud.Bovard Auditorium, USC213/740-6786 ● usc.edu

Thu 2/24 7 pmSheila Kuehl at SMC Bundy

The former state senator screens clips from several films, with audience discussions of the public policy issues embedded in the clips.Bundy Campus Room 123, 3171 S Bundy Dr, West LA310/434-3429 ● smc.edu

Thu 2/24 7 pmCuba at the HammerHammer Forum: Journalist & former Cuban revolutionary Max Lesnik & Castro biographer Ann Louise Bardach discuss "Cuba after the Castros." Tix avail. fron 6 pm.UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood213/309-4322 ● hammer.ucla.edu

Thu 2/24 7:30 pmWriter at Skylight BooksJonathan Evison reads his highly anticipated new novel, "West of Here."Skylight Books, 1818 N Vermont, Los Feliz323/660-1175 ● skylightbooks.com

Thu 2/24 7:30 pmConcert at Rio Hondo College88 Times 2: A duo piano recital presented by Music Faculty members Jannine Livingston & Linda Brown. Wray Theatre, Rio Hondo College, 3600 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier562/908-3492 ● riohondo.edu/arts

Thu 2/24 7:30 pmPlant Talk at Eaton Canyon Dan Cooper talks about the recent Griffith Park Rare Plant Survey for the Calif. Native Plants Society.Eaton Canyon Nature Center, 1750 N Altadena Dr, Pasadena626/359-5278 ● cnps-sgm.org

Thu 2/24 7:30 pmFilm at the Korean Cultural CenterScreening of the Korean classic feature "Holiday in Seoul" (Lee Yong-min, 1956).Korean Cultural Center, 5505 Wilshire Blvd, Miracle Mile323/733-0500 ● kccla.org

Thu 2/24 7:30 pmRacism at Scripps CollegeArtist & author damali ayo presents ""I Can Fix Racism!"Balch Auditorium, Scripps College, 1030 Columbia Ave, Claremont909/607-4690 ● scrippscollege.edu

Thu 2/24 7:30 pm (see 3 pm)Behind the Scenes at the Huntington

Thu 2/24 7:30 pmArchitecture Forum at MOCAOtis College presents Berlin-based architect Jurgen Mayer H, talking about the work of his firm. RSVP.Museum of Contemporary Art, 250 S Grand Ave, Downtown LA310/665-6867 ● otis.edu

Thu 2/24 7:30 pmGreek Art at the Getty Villa"Sculpting Aphrodite: Praxiteles, Phryne, & the Knidia" Classicist Andrew Stewart explores the diverse legends of this lost masterpiece, the many messages it conveyed, & its reception from the Renaissance to the present. RSVP.Getty Villa, 17985 PCH, Pacific Palisades310/440-7300 ● getty.edu

Fri 2/25 10 am - 5 pm (also 2/26, 2/27)Arts Festival in La HabraThe Hillcrest Festival of Fine Arts showcases 200+ artists demoing & selling their work, + live music & kids' workshops.Hillcrest Congregational Church, 2000 West Rd, La Habra Heights562/947-3755 ● hillcrest-church.org

Sat 2/25 11 am - 1 pmBikes at SMMOATour the museum, learn basic bike maintenance, & participate in a mini-ride with the guidance of Cyclists Inciting Change thru Live Exchange (C.I.C.L.E.).Santa Monica Museum of Art, Bergamot Station, 2525 Michigan Ave, SM310/586-6488 ● smmoa.org

Fri 2/25 12 noonMusic at Scripps CollegePianists Stephan Moss & Tatiana Thibodeaux, & violinist Jonathan Wright, play music of violin Bizet, Bridge, Faure, & Liszt.Balch Auditorium, Scripps College, 1030 Columbia Ave, Claremont909/607-9372 ● scrippscollege.edu

Fri 2/25 12 noonScott Brown at Vroman'sThe Massachusetts senator reads his memoir, "Against All Odds: My Life of Hardship, Fast Breaks, & Second Chances."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Fri 2/25 12 noonMaster Class at USCKate Lindsey, mezzo-soprano & star of The Metropolitan Opera, gives a vocal master class at the USC Thornton School.Jeanette MacDonald Recital Hall, USC213/740-2584 ● usc.edu

Fri 2/25 3:45 pmTeen Movie at the NoHo LibraryTGIF screens "Catfish," somewhere between real-life drama & crass exploitation.North Hollywood Branch of LAPL, 5211 Tujunga Ave, NH818/766-7185 ● .lapl.org

Fri 2/25 4 - 10 pm (also 2/26, 2/27)Camellia Festival in Temple CityLocal youth groups design & build camellia-bedecked floats for the parade (Sat 10 am); marching bands converge; & the festival features games, arts & crafts, food, & a carnival.Temple City Park, 9701 Las Tunas Dr, Temple City626/ 285-2171 ● ci.temple-city.ca.us

Fri 2/25 6 pmHot Rods in PomonaAuto Club Night of Champions: Q&A session with professional drag racers, incl. Funny Car driver "Fast" Jack Beckman, Pro Stock Motorcycle driver Steve Johnson & others.NHRA Motorsports Museum, 1101 W McKinley Ave, Pomona909/622-2133 ● museum.nhra.com

Fri 2/25 7 pmAuthor at Book SoupJonathan Evison reads "West Of Here," set in the fictional town of Port Bonita, Washington.Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Fri 2/25 7 pm

Concert at Culver City HallMembers of the LA Phil perform classical music, with a string quartet playing Mozart & Bartok.Council Chambers, City Hall, 9770 Culver Blvd, Culver City310/253-5716 ● culvercity.org

Fri 2/25 7 pmHistory at Vroman'sLiel Leibovitz & Matthew Miller present "Fortunate Sons: The 120 Chinese Boys Who Came to America, Went to School, & Revolutionized an Ancient Civilization."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Fri 2/25 7 pmMovies at USCOutside the Box (Office) screens "Summer Pasture," Lynn True & Nelson Walker's documentary about a young nomadic couple living in the high grasslands of eastern Tibet. RSVP.George Lucas Building 112, USC213/740-2330 ● cinema.usc.edu

Fri 2/25 7 - 10 pm Subversive Cinema at 212 PierGerry Fialka screens experimental films; political activist cinema; lit, art, & music flix; & avant garde documentaries, meant to provoke discussions.212 Pier Coffeehouse, 212 Pier Ave, Santa Monica310/306-7330 ● laughtears.com

Fri 2/25 7:30 pmTV at the HammerThe UCLA Film & Television Archive screens "Created by Joesph Stefano - Rare TV Pilots," with "The Haunted" (1965) & "The Unknown" (1964).UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire, Westwood310/825-2101 ● cinema.ucla.edu

Fri 2/25 7:30 pmIndian Music at G2 Gallery Internationally recognized sitar player Paul Livingstone & tabla player Debasish Chaudhuri perform North Indian classical ragas. RSVP.G2 Gallery, 1503 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice 310/452-2842 ● theg2gallery.com

Fri 2/25 8 pmConcert at LAHCThe South Bay Chamber Music Society presents Calico Winds, playing music of Viitasaari, Bizet, Barber, Rota, & more.Recital Hall, LA Harbor College, 1111 Figueroa Pl, Wilmington310/372-4222 ● palosverdes.com/sbcms

Fri 2/25 8 pm (see 2/4)Recital at the Colburn

Fri 2/25 8 pmConcert at CalArtsA CalArts Ensemble Concert featuring guest alumna soprano Stephanie Aston, performing music of Nicholas Deyoe, Earl Kim & Trevor Grahl.Wild Beast, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Fri 2/25 8 pmPerformance at Machine ProjectA special evening of photography & tabla with Robin Sukhadia, on a short leave from his Fulbright stint in India.Machine Project, 1200 D N Alvarado St, LA213/483-8761 ● machineproject.com

Fri 2/25 8 pm (also 2/27)Concert in ClaremontThe Pomona College Orchestra is joined by 2010 Concerto Competition winners tenor Eddie Saylestenor & pianist Sonya Ursell in music by Britten, Hindemith, & Rachmaninoff.Bridges Hall, 150 E 4th St, Claremont909/607-2671 ● music.pomona.edu

Sat 2/26 8 am (see 2/5)Bird Walk at Dockweiler Beach

Sat 2/26 10 amCompost at the Fairview LibraryLearn how to turn organic waste into nutrient rich compost.Fairview Branch of SMPL, 2101 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica310/450-0443 ● smpl.org

Sat 2/26 10 am (see 2/12) Dune Walk in Ballona Wetlands

Sat 2/26 10 amOpera at USCThe Metropolitan Opera in NYC performs Gluck’s "Iphigenie En Tauride," transmitted live in HD. RSVP + come early.Eileen Norris Cinema Theatre, USC213/740-6786 ● usc.edu

Sat 2/26 10 am - 12 noonGardening Class in Griffith ParkThe City of LA sponsors classes on composting, waterwise gardening, & more; low-cost compost bins available for sale. Composting Facility, 5400 Griffith Dr, Griffith Park213/473-8228 ● ci.la.ca.us/SAN

Sat 2/26 10 am - 5 pm (see 2/25)Arts Festival in La Habra

Sat 2/26 11 amArtist Talk at CLUCalifornia master artist, sculptor Béla Bácsi holds a master class to demonstrate his sculpture technique. Call to verify.F Building Rm 13, Cal Lutheran U, 60 W Olsen Rd, Thousand Oaks805/493-3025 ● clunet.edu

Sat 2/26 11 amArtist Talk at OtisPhyllis Green leads a walkthrough of "Splendid Entities: 25 Years of Objects by Phyllis Green," followed by a no-host lunch at a local eatery.Maltz Gallery, Otis College, 9045 Lincoln, Westchester310/665-6850 ● otis.edu

Sat 2/26 11:30 amYoga at the Sylmar LibraryYoga is a fun way to reduce stress & get in shape: learn how easy it is at a free beginner's workout.Sylmar Branch of LAPL, 14561 Polk St, Sylmar 818/367-6102 ● lapl.org

Sat 2/26 12 noon - 10 pm (see 2/25)Camellia Festival in Temple City

Sat 2/26 1 pmSushi at the La Cañada LibraryChef Andy Matsuda gives a hands-on demonstration of the fine culinary art of sushi preparation.

Library, 4545 N Oakwood Ave, La Cañada Flintridge818/790-3330 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/26 1 pmWater Walk in Paramount RanchCreek Critters: Wade with a ranger to discover insects & other animals living in Medea Creek. 2 hrs; RSVP.Paramount Ranch, Cornell Way near Kanan Road (call for directions)805/370-2348 ● nps.gov/samo

Sat 2/26 1 - 4:30 pm (also 2/27)Bonsai-a-Thon at the HuntingtonInternationally recognized bonsai masters share their passion for the art form through exhibits, demonstrations, prize drawings, a “bonsai bazaar,” & a live auction at 3 pm each day. Free w/admission.Huntington Library, 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino310/825-1880 ● cmrs.ucla.edu

Sat 2/26 2 pmTheater at the Agoura Hills LibrarySuzan Gallerito presents "Betsy Ross," a historical impression of the woman who according to legend designed the 1st national flag.Library, 29901 Ladyface Court, Agoura Hills818/889-2278 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/26 2 pmAfrican American History at CAAMMeet businessman, attorney, author, & newspaper proprietor Joe C Hopkins, & hear about his early days in the San Gabriel valley. RSVP.Calif African American Museum, Exposition Park213/744-2024 ● caamuseum.org

Sat 2/26 2 pmOpera Talk at the Agoura Hills LibraryA speaker from the LA Opera goes behind the scenes with Benjamin Britten's "Turn of the Screw."Library, 29901 Ladyface Court, Agoura Hills818/889-2278 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/26 2 pmTea in Sierra MadreThe author of "On Gold Mountain: The 100-Year Odyssey of My Chinese-American Family" talks about China, Chinatown, & family history. Part of the "One City, One Book" project celebrating Lisa See's "On Gold Mountain."Community Services Center, 611 E Sierra Madre Blvd, Sierra Madre26/355-7186 ● sierramadre.lib.ca.us

Sat 2/26 2 pmDocumentary at JANMSandra Robbie screens & discusses her film "Mendez Vs. Westminster: For All the Children," about the case that began the unraveling of school segregation in the US. Free w/admission.Japanese Amer. Nat’l Museum, 369 E 1st St, Little Tokyo213/625-0414 ~ janm.org

Sat 2/26 2 - 3 pmFeng Shui at the Rowland Heights LibraryCelebrate the Lunar New Year with a free Feng Shui seminar with Jenny Liu, whowing how to harmonize the energy of your environment & create more balance in your life in 2011.Library, 1850 Nogales St, Rowland Heights626/912-5348 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/26 2 pm

Dance at the Artesia LibraryJoin Jennifer Tai & her Little Dance World troupe for a special program of Chinese dance.Library, 18722 S Clarkdale Ave, Artesia562/865-6614 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/26 2 pmConcert at the Buena Vista LibraryThe Helledie Moore Duo performs classical & original compositions for violin & keyboard.Buena Vista Branch of BPL, 300 N Buena Vista St, Burbank818/238-5620 ● BurbankLibrary.com

Sat 2/26 2 pmMovie at the Torrance libraryEnjoy Oscar contender "Inception," with Leonardo DiCaprio & Ellen Page.Civic Center Library, 3301 Torrance Blvd, Torrance310/618-5959 ● torrnet.com

Sat 2/26 2 - 4 pmJam Session at Debs ParkOld Time String Band Jam Session: Listen & dance to local musicians strum Appalachian-style fiddle & banjo tunes. Call to verify.Debs Park, 4700 N Griffin Ave, North LA323/221-2255 ● audubondebspark.org

Sat 2/26 2 - 8 pmArt Walk in Leimert ParkThe hub of Black culture in LA presents its monthly Art Walk, with the many stores & galleries welcoming visitors; a main stage of music in the park; progressive pop at Kaos Network, film at Cine Freestyle; dancing, storytelling & a musical pied piper. Check website to verify.Around Crenshaw & 43rd, Leimert Parkleimertparkartwalk.com

Sat 2/26 3 pmCrafts at the San Dimas LibraryArtist Bjlane conducts a workshop where participants will be able to create a portrait with self-drying clay. For adults & teens; RSVP.San Dimas Library, 145 N Walnut Ave, San Dimas909/599-6738 ● colapublib.org

Sat 2/26 3 pmAuthor at SMPLDolen Perkins-Valdez, author of this year's Citywide Reads book "Wench," discusses her debut novel.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Sat 2/26 3 pmConcert at LAPLAloud presents an afternoon of chamber music with musicians from the LA Phil playing Beethoven & Mozart. RSVP.Taper Auditorium, LA Public Library, 5th & Flower, Downtown LA213/228-7025 ● lapl.org

Sat 2/26 3 pmWorld Mosic at the FowlerSonic Nigeria: KCRW’s Tom Schabel leads a conversation exploring the contemporary face of Nigerian music, with Viola Galloway of Amoeba, KPFK DJ Nnamdi Moweta, & DJ & music producer Ade James.Fowler Museum of Cultural History, UCLA310/825-4169 ● fmch.ucla.edu

Sat 2/26 4 pmMusic Talk at the Norton Simon

Jeffrey Saletnik gives an overview of John Cage’s creative practice & explores the interrelation of his work in aural & text-based media. Free w/admission.Norton Simon Museum, 411 W Colorado, Pasadena626/844-6905 ● nortonsimon.org

Sat 2/26 4 pmConcert at Riviera United MethodistThe LA Recorder Orchestra plays an afternoon concert.Riviera UMC, 375 Palos Verdes Blvd, Redondo Beach310/378-9273 ● larohome.org

Sat 2/26 5 pmHip-Hop at Book SoupDan Charnas discusses "The Big Payback: The History of the Business of Hip-Hop."Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Sat 2/26 5 pmSlake at Skylight BooksEditors Laurie Ochoa & Joe Donnelly, & several of their writers, celebrate the new issue of Slake, "Los Angeles, a City & Its Stories, No. 2: Crossing Over."Skylight Books, 1818 N Vermont, Los Feliz323/660-1175 ● skylightbooks.com

Sat 2/26 6 - 9 pmOpening at Gallery 825Reception for the group show "Fast Living" + 3 solo shows, at this non-profit LA Art Association space.LAAA/Gallery 825, 825 N La Cienega Blvd, LA310/652-8272 ● laaa.org

Sat 2/26 7 pmConcert at University of La VerneMusic from the The Albert Mc Neil Jubilee Singers.Steinway Studio FH#105, University of La Verne, 1950 3rd St, La Verne909/593-3511 ● ulv.edu

Sat 2/26 7 pmConcert at 1st Lutheran VeniceMasters in the Chapel: Music from renowned organist Christoph Bull, playing everything from Bach to the Beatles.1st Lutheran Church, 815 Venice Blvd, Venice310/821-2740 ● flvenice.org

Sat 2/26 7:30 pmConcert at Pasadena PresbyterianMusic that Feeds the Soul: Peat-Fire Flame - Fiddler Colyn Fischer & pianist Shauna Pickett-Gordon perform traditional Scottish fiddling & original music in the Scottish tradition. Ticketed ceilidh follows.Pasadena Presb. Church, 585 E Colorado Bl, Pasadena626/793-2191 ● ppc.net

Sat 2/26 7:30 pmDocumentary at UCLAThe Archive Documentary Spotlight screens "War Don Don" (2010), director Rebecca Richman Cohen’s gripping account of war crimes trials in Sierra Leone.James Bridges Theater, UCLA310/825-2101 ● cinema.ucla.edu

Sat 2/26 7:30 pmConcert at OccidentalAn evening of music from the Occidental-Caltech Symphony.Thorne Hall, Occidental College, 1600 Campus Rd, Eagle Rock323/259-3649 ● oxy.edu

Sat 2/26 8 pmComedy at the Downtown IndependentScreening of the latest episode of Channel 101, Dan Harmon & Rob Schrab's web-based TV network. Call to verify.Downtown Independent, 251 S Main St, Downtown LA213/617-1033 ● downtownindependent.com

Sat 2/26 8 pmConcert at CLUMichael Falcone, with jazz ensemble, performs his original music for the 1st time in concert.Samuelson Chapel, Cal Lutheran U, 60 W Olsen Rd, Thousand Oaks805/493-3306 ● clunet.edu

Sat 2/26 8 pmNew Music at Beacon ArtsSASSAS (Society for the Activation of Social Space through Art & Soun) presents Ad Hoc #2: Highland bagpiper David Watson & David Grubbs, with guests Steve Roden, Joe Potts, & William Roper.Beacon Arts, 808 N La Brea Ave, Inglewood323/226-1617 ● sassas.org

Sun 2/27 8:30 amBird Walk at SatwiwaRambling Raptors: Scan the trees, chaparral, & grassland for winter visitors; find out why they're here. Beginners welcome.Satwiwa Native American Center, Via Goleta, Lynn Rd 5 miles S of 101 (call for directions)805/370-2348 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/27 8:30 amBird Walk at Malibu LagoonSee shore birds, herons, gulls, ducks, & marsh birds with the Conejo Valley Audubon. RSVP.Malibu Lagoon State Beach, PCH at Cross Creek, Malibu805/492-2796 ● http://conejovalleyaudubon.org

Sun 2/27 9 amWaterfall Hike in Eaton CanyonNature Hike to Eaton Canyon Falls: a moderate 3.5 mile walk with boulder-hopping, crossing the water several times. Wear sturdy shoes that can get wet; bring hats, sunscreen, & a snack.Eaton Canyon Nature Ctr, 1750 N. Altadena Dr, Pasadena626/398-5420 ● ecnca.org

Sun 2/27 10 amWildflower Walk at CharmleeLearn to recognize some of the many native plants & flowers of our region. 2 hrs; RSVP.Csharmlee Natural Area, Encinal Canyon 4 miles from PCH (call for directions)310/317-1364 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/27 10 amNature Walk in Malibu CreekDiscover Native American, cinematic, geological & historical sites on a docent-led walk. 2 hrs.Malibu Creek State Park, near Las Virgenes & Mulholland (call for directions)818/347-1817 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/27 10 amNature Walk at Malibu BluffsHike trails with great views, dip your toes into the bay, & look for dolphins & whales. 2 hrs.

Malibu Bluffs Park, PCH at Malibu Canyon818/348-5910 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/27 10 am - 1 pmMusic in SMTake a break from shopping the market for live music from Blind Blakes.Farmers Market, 2640 Main St, Santa Monica310/458-8712 ● farmersmarket.santa-monica.org

Sun 2/27 11 am – 1 pm (see 2/6)Family Arts at LACMA

Sun 2/27 11 am - 5 pm (see 2/25)Arts Festival in La Habra

Sun 2/27 12 noon - 2 pmDance at LACEPortable City Projects presents choreographer, dancer, educator, & art instigator Christine Suarez, leading a workshop using improvisation, sound, & body. Call to verify. LA Contemporary Exhibitions, 6522 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood323/957-1777 ● welcometolace.org

Sun 2/27 12 noon - 8 pm (see 2/25)Camellia Festival in Temple City

Sun 2/27 12:30 - 4:30 pmSoundShoppe at ERCAA monthly unstructured workshop/jam for experimental musicians & sound artists. Call to verify.Center for the Arts, 2225 Colorado Blvd, Eagle Rock323/226-1617 ● sassas.org

Sun 2/27 1 pmDorkbot at Machine Project"People doing strange things with electricity, mostly in LA." Check website for clues.Machine Project, 1200 D N Alvarado St, LA213/483-8761 ● dorkbot.org

Sun 2/27 1 pm (see 2/6)Winter Walk in Topanga State Park

Sun 2/27 1 pmWorms at Sooky GoldmanNaturalist Norma shows how to use worms & food scraps to enrich the soil in your garden. 2 hrs.Sooky Goldman Nature Center, near Coldwater & Mulholland (call for directions)310/858-858-7272 ● nps.gov/samo

Sun 2/27 1 - 4 pmBluegrass at CTMSThe Bluegrass Assoc. of Southern California hosts a casual jam session - break out your instruments or just enjoy. Encino Park, 16953 Ventura Blvd, Encino818/817-7756 ● ctmsfolkmusic.org

Sun 2/27 1 - 4:30 pm (see 2/26)Bonsai-a-Thon at the Huntington

Sun 2/27 1 - 5 pmBluegrass in TorranceJoin in a friendly bluegrass jam. Players of all levels welcome. Call to verify.Elks Lounge, 1820 Abalone Ave, Torrance310/328-7903 ● socalbluegrass.org

Sun 2/27 1:30 pm

Drums at USCThornton Drum Day is a workshop featuring the use of drums in a variety of musical styles, from drum line to jazz combo.Ramo Recital Hall, USC213/740-2584 ● usc.edu

Sun 2/27 2 pmConcert at Forest Lawn Hwd HillsThe New Valley Symphony Orchestra plays festive music of Bizet, Gershwin, & Brahms.Forest Lawn, 6300 Forest Lawn Drive, Burbank800/789-5466 ● forestlawn.com

Sun 2/27 2 pmPublishing at the Westlake LibraryA panel of experts discusses how you can publish your memoir (for first time & veteran authors alike).Library, 31220 Oak Crest Dr, Westlake Village818/865-9230 ● colapublib.org

Sun 2/27 2 pmAuthors On Asia at PAMAfghan writer Tamin Ansary discusses "Destiny Disrupted: A History of the World Through Islamic Eyes." Free w/admission; RSVP.Pacific Asia Museum, 46 N Los Robles Ave, Pasadena626/449-2742 ● pacificasiamuseum.org

Sun 2/27 2 pmConcert at the Nixon Library: Placentia Community ChorusNixon Library, 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd, Yorba Linda714/993-5075 ● nixonlibraryfoundation.org

Sun 2/27 2 pmPoetry at Beyond BaroqueBilly Burgos hosts a monthly open reading with a rotating slate of hosts who represent Southern California’s diverse & vital voices in poetry. Beyond Baroque, 681 Venice Blvd, venice310/922-3006 ● beyondbaroque.org

Sun 2/27 2 pmConcert in TorranceYoung Artists Showcase: Music from winners of the Edith Knox Performance Competition.Armstrong Theatre, 3330 Civic Center Dr, Torrance310-373-2442 ● tcac.torrnet.com

Sun 2/27 2 - 4 pmFamily Arts at BarnsdallFree art workshops on revolving themes, led by artists. Today, Peru: Textile Design with Katie Bachler.Junior Art Center, Barnsdall Art Park, 4800 Hollywood Blvd, LA323/644-6275 ● barnsdall.org

Sun 2/27 2 - 4 pmPoetry at Avenue 50La Palabra presents readings by Argentine-American poet Yago Cura & Annette Cruz, + an open mike for community poets.Avenue 50 Studio, 131 N Avenue 50, Highland Park323/258-1435 ● avenue50studio.com

Sun 2/27 2 – 5 pmOpening at BarnsdallReception for the grouip show "Framing Abstraction: Mark, Symbol, Signifier."Municipal Art Gallery, Barnsdall Art Park, 4800 Hollywood Blvd, LA323/644-6269 ● lamag.org

Sun 2/27 3 pmMusic at the ColburnFaculty Recital: Sam Fischer, violin.Colburn School, 200 S Grand Ave, Downtown LA213-621-1050 ● colburnschool.edu

Sun 2/27 3 pmGallery Talk at MOCA GeffenArt historian Andrea Giunta discusses the work of Lucio Fontana in "Suprasensorial: Experiments in Light, Color, & Space."Free w/admission.Museum of Contemporary Art, 152 N Central, Little Tokyo213/621-1745 ● moca.org

Sun 2/27 3 pm (see 2/25)Concert in Claremont

Sat 2/27 3:30 pmMusic at CaltechThe Caltech-Occidental Symphony Orchestra performs an afternoon of music.Ramo Auditorium, Caltech, 332 S Michigan Ave, Pasadena626/395-4652 ● events.caltech.edu

Sun 2/27 3 pmConcert in Rancho Palos VerdesThe South Bay Chamber Music Society presents Calico Winds, playing music of Viitasaari, Bizet, Barber, Rota, & more. Pacific Unitarian Church, 5621 Montemalaga, Rancho PV310/372-4222 ● palosverdes.com/sbcms

Sun 2/27 5 pmPunk Rock at Book SoupCleveland Confidential Event with authors Cheetah Chrome (Cheetah Chrome: A Dead Boy's Tale from the Front Lines of Punk Rock), Mike Hudson (Jetsam), & Bob Pfeifer (The University of Strangers).Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Sun 2/27 5 pmConcert in WhittierThe APU Bel Canto Women's Choir, under the direction of Dr. David Hughes, presents a concert of inspirational music.1st UMC, 13222 E Bailey St, Whittier800/219-9920 ● apu.edu/music/concerts

Sun 2/27 6 pmConcert at La Crescenta PresbyterianThe 80-voice APU Men's Chorale performs a variety of choral repertoire, including contemporary Christian, gospel, & folk songs.La Crescenta Presbyterian, 2902 Montrose Ave, La Crescenta800/219-9920 ● apu.edu/music/concerts

Sun 2/27 6 pm Concert at LACMAMembers of the Capitol Ensemble Phillip Levy & Julie Gigante (violins), David Low (cello) & Francois Chouchan (piano), perform Schubert & BrahmsBing Theater, LA County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire, Miracle Mile323/857-6234 ● sundayslive.org

Sun 2/27 7:30 pmSacred Music at St. James’The Schola Cantorum of St. James’ sings ancient chant & mystical hymns for a candle-lit, wordless Compline service.St. James’ Church, 3903 Wilshire Blvd, Mid-Wilshire213/388-3417 ● saintjamesla.org

Sun 2/27 7:30 pmCompline in Oak ParkA meditative, ancient all-music service that has been chanted & sung by Christians for 1,500 years, with traditional plainsong, & music by Barnby, Hallock, Josquin, & Victoria. Call to verify.Church of the Epiphany, 5450 Churchwood Dr, Oak Park818/991-4797 ● thechurchoftheepiphany.org

Mon 2/28 10 amCrafts at the Santa Catalina LibraryCreative Memories - A traditional & digital scrapbooking & card-making workshop.Santa Catalina Branch of PPL, 999 E Washington Blvd, Pasadena626/794-7272 ● ci.pasadena.ca.us/library

Mon 2/28 12 noonEconomics at USCDan Schiller speaks on "Power Under Pressure: Digital Capitalism & the Financial-Economic Crisis."Annenberg School 207, USC213/821-3015 ● usc.edu

Thu 2/28 12 noonJewish Studies at UCLAJonathan P Decter speaks on "Representing Jewish Legitimacy in the Medieval Mediterranean." RSVP. Bunche Hall 6275, UCLA310/267-5327 ● cjs.ucla.edu

Mon 2/28 12 noonPerformance at CalArtsTMO LIVE! - Live endurance art, with accompanying low music.Main Gallery, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Mon 2/28 3 pmGallery Talk at the Getty VillaJoin a Getty curator for an hour-long insider's perspective on works of art in the permanent collection. Sign up outside the Museum Entrance at 2:45. RSVP to visit.Getty Villa, 17985 PCH, Pacific Palisades310/440-7300 ● getty.edu

Sat 2/28 3 - 5 pm Poetry at the Santa Catalina LibrarySaturday Afternoon Poetry welcomes Leah Brown, Radomir Vojtech Luza, Angel Uriel Perales, & Karine Armen, + open reading.Santa Catalina Branch of PPL, 999 E Washington Blvd, Pasadena626/794-7272 ● http://saturdayafternoonpoetry.blogspot.com

Mon 2/28 4:30 pmAfrican Writing at UCLAEditor & author Kwaku Larbi Korang speaks for the "50 Years of African Writing: Novels, Filmmaking, Criticism" series.Bunche Hall 10383, UCLA310/825-3686 ● international.ucla.edu

Mon 2/28 4:30 pmSkid Row at CSULA"Jails Are Not Homes: Transforming Skid Row" A compelling multimedia presentation by residents & activists associated with the LA Community Action Network.U-SU Theatre, Cal State Univ, 5151 State University Dr, LA323/343-5823 ● calstatela.edu

Mon 2/28 7 pmMemoir at Vroman's

Belva Davis presents "Never in My Wildest Dreams: A Black Woman's Life in Journalism."Vroman's, 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena626/449-5320 ● vromansbookstore.com

Mon 2/28 7 pmDesign Talk at USCDigital Studies Symposium presents media artist Chandler McWilliams, speaking on computational aesthetics, & the relationship between code & visuality.Broccoli Theatre (SCA 112), USC213/740-2330 ● cinema.usc.edu

Mon 2/28 7 pmGreen Films at Pomona CollegeScreening of the documentary "Wasteland," as part of People | Places | Spaces - the Sustainability Film Festival.Rose Hills Theater, Pomona College, 170 E 6th St, Claremont909/621-8283 ● pomona.edu/museum

Mon 2/28 7 pmWriter at Book SoupMichael Gelbart discusses "The Other Oprahs," about other women living with the hardest name in the world to live up to.Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hwd310/659-3110 ● booksoup.com

Mon 2/28 7 pmCareers at SMPLA career panel for teens grades 6-12 with professionals who work in entertainment, including a radio DJ, spoken word poet, feature animator, & others.Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica310/458-8600 ● smpl.org

Mon 2/28 7 pmAfghanistan at UCLAAuthor, lecturer, & teacher Tamim Ansary speaks on "World History Through Afghan Muslim Eyes."Faculty Center, UCLA310/825-0007 ● international.ucla.edu

Mon 2/28 7 pmBilly Collins at USCThe former US Poet Laureate reads from his work & chats with USC Professor & California Poet Laureate Carol Muske-Dukes.Doheny Memorial Library, USC213/740-6786 ● usc.edu

Mon 2/28 8 pmMusic at CalArtsUndergrad Composers' Concert, showcasing original works by CalArts composition majors.ROD Hall, CalArts, 24700 McBean Parkway, Valencia661/253-7800 ● calarts.edu

Sun 2/28 8 pmMusic at CaltechAn evening with the Student Chamber Ensembles, featuring Dieter Flury on flute & accompanist Maria Prinz.Dabney Lounge, Caltech, 332 S Michigan Ave, Pasadena626/395-4652 ● events.caltech.edu

The Culture Alert ● © Rina Rubenstein ● CultureAlert@hotmail.com