At the risk of sounding cliché, but where did 2011 go?! It seems like only last month we were dishing out prizes for our Sweet Tweets contestants like they were candy hearts. This year I have learned a lot, for example:
1. Do not, I repeat do not get in the way of a baker and her spatula. I learned that the hard way when the Renaissance Hollywood hosted DrinkEatPlay’s annual Cupcake Challenge. They may bake sweets but I will tell you one thing-if they say you cannot lick the spatula, you drop that spatula.
2. Just because people say you look like Ryan Gosling’s older brother, does not mean you can joke that you two are related. If you do, there will be a stampede and near riot on the property.
3. Even though, the guys at Cirque de Soleil make it look easy, IRIS cannot be recreated-no matter how hard you practice.
4. Lions, like their domesticated cousins the house cat, enjoy a little cat nip here and there.
5. Sweet potato tator tots at Twist are extremely addictive. Try them with caution. I spent most of September in a spud haze because of the delicious, crispy, piping hot morsels. Kicking those babies was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to give up. Even worst than the time I went on an Almas Caviar binge. In fact, I think to reward myself for my hard work I will pop over and place a small order of them.
To commemorate this great year I encourage you to celebrate with style. Here are a few more tips from me to you for this NYE season:
Universal City Walk has a huge free, all ages, outdoor New Year’s Eve Countdown Bash available to the public. The event features live music and DJs beginning at 9 pm, and fireworks from 2 ends of the street at midnight.
When: 9 pm – 12:30 am
Where: Universal City Walk, at the top of Universal Studios Blvd. off the 101 Freeway.
Tickets: Free
Parking: Before 6 pm, $15 general/$20 preferred, after 6 pm $40 general, $45 valet.
Metro: Red Line to Universal City station
New Year’s Eve at Hermosa Beach Pier is a free community celebration with Lou Giovanetti and His Big Band performing and a replay of the New York Times Square ball drop. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to dine at the surrounding restaurants.
When: 8:30 pm – 1:30 am
Where: Pier Plaza, Hermosa Beach
Tickets: Free
Parking: various lots
Info: www.hbchamber.net
Big Bang New Year’s Eve with Cobra Starship and Lupe Fiasco hosted by Mario Lopez and Extra TV at Hollywood & Highland also includes multiple parties. In addition to the one at Highlands nightclub, which is also included in several other multi-venue tickets, there will be festivities in the Kodak Theatre Ballroom, the Annex Special Event Center and a candle-lit pool area.Entertainment includes live bands, DJs, cirque performers, choreographed dancers and more. Cobra Starship concert is only available to VIP ticket holders.
When: 9 pm to 2 am
Where: Hollywood & Highland Center, 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90028
Tickets: $75 General Admission, $125-150 VIP with open bar, table packages available
Parking: $2 for 2 hours, $10 max at Hollywood & Highland (must be validated at Hollywood & Highland), limited street parking.
Age Limit: 21 and up
Info and Tickets
As always, the Metropolitan Transit Authority will offer free rides on Metro buses and trains New Year’s Eve. Take advantage of this free and safe ride. Service will be free between 9 pm and 2am starting on December 31. To plan your Metro trip, go to www.metro.net or call 1-800-COMMUTE.
Whatever you end up doing this New Year’s Eve have fun, be safe and stay classy.
This is Bruce, signing off.