This is a FREE event, just buy your own drinks/food. Bring your friends, colleagues, sweetheart, or just come on your own and make some new acquaintances. Join us “poolside” at the Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey for L7’s second “Networking Cocktail Mixer” of Summer 2009. These mixers provide an excellent opportunity to check out the L7 scene, meet some of LA’s finest young professionals for business or social purposes and experience LA’s must-see places. Click here for info and RSVP

The pleasure of the Santa Monica Pier’s sunshine, lapping waves, lively seashore, and colorful characters is an indulgence that, for many, claims a distinct status in the experience of this city’s culture. Pausing to play, rest, and perhaps spot a sea lion or two is a reminder of the cheerful side of life and prompts consideration as to how this ever-evolving yet charmingly traditional asset really came to be.

On July 29 at 7:00 p.m., the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium invites the public, volunteers, and educators to attend a free lecture by James Harris, author of the book “Santa Monica Pier: A Century on the Last Great Pleasure Pier.” Having worked on the Pier since 1989 and now serving as the Pier Historian and Community Event Liaison for the Santa Monica Pier Restoration Corporation, Harris has dedicated himself to learning and sharing his knowledge of the Pier and its people. The lecture will feature anecdotes about the stories and the storytellers of Harris’s book, as well as a walking tour of historic points along the Pier.

Harris’ book is an attractively designed, lighthearted account detailing subjects such as the Pier’s early years, challenges, expansion, and iconic characteristics. Featuring a foreword by Robert Redford and quaint vintage photographs, this historical account provides reminisces about the Pier’s beginnings, pays respects to its growth and longevity, and instigates a renewed appreciation and desire to preserve it for future years. Stories of Popeye and sea monster sightings mingle with storm facts and fishing tales, presenting an ample and original gamut of subjects catering to diverse interests.

The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium’s lecture series supports a commitment to education, outreach, and service by providing access to noteworthy speakers lecturing on significant subjects that affect our community. James Harris’ lecture, tour, and book publication coincide with the Pier’s year long Centennial Celebration.

Seating in the Aquarium is limited to 50 and by RSVP only. Contact 310-393-6149 x 106 for reservations. Following the lecture, others may join the walking tour beginning at 7:50 p.m. Meet on the north side of the Carousel building (facing the Pier ramp) to join the group.

By Desiree Lanz

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Every Saturday 6:00pm

Every Sunday 4:30pm

Contact Info: (888) 398-9348 | Event Website

West L.A. Bandshell, 11338 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica

Valkrie film Tom Cruise, sat 7/18/09/ 12noon Sr Rec Center 1450 Ocean Blvd Santa Monica/(Near sm Pier. ) aFree if member b. >50 cents if non member.  Film & popcorn.

Ascreening of Kate Bus videos. Live musical tributes @10pm, Where Synchronicity 4306 Melrose ave La 90029 www.synspacela.com (323)283-8960

Sunday 7/12/09 8pm Aspecial sceening of a film written, directedby & starring Kate Bush!  Plus Rare kate Bush music specials an Documentaries.

porta Via424 n Canondriveinfo foryour art.com paleycenter.org admission free!  public party.com beverlyhills .org. Cultural Partners City of Beverlh Hiils Fine Arts Commission a For you artb. Gagosian Gallery c. The palet Center For Media

Public Art Party:  Beverly Hills12;00pm-6pm.free!  foryour art.com videos,sculpture.

For your art Gagosian Gallery The Paley Center For Media.  For Your Art 600 S. San Vincente; Suite A Los Angeles, Calif. 90048

a Constitutional Conmvention for California?  How might it come about? How could it help our cities, schools,budget and government.

Broad Stage/Santa Monica College. Friday, July 17th 6:15pm to 9:30 pm, followed by Community Reception Admission free!  Broadstge is 1310 11 th st Santa monica cross streets 11th st/Santa Monica Blvd.

Where H& H hollywood 7 highland Center hollywood blvd & Highland Tuesdays 7-9pm. July 7 Carl Saunders sextet July 14 Bobby Matos Latin Jazz ensemble July 21 Ernie Watts Quartet July 28 Karl Denson Trios Aug 4/ Theos SandSextet Aug 11/Francisco Agusbella l;atin Jazz Band,