If you haven't texted money to Haiti, or wrote a check, or did anything to help besides watch the news and talk about it, here's your chance to do something good and listen to some great music while you're at it. Voices from the Rubble partners with Center for Lupus Care to give relief to the victims of the Haiti earthquake for a momentous night while catching some of the most talented and uplifting performers in Los Angeles. Rise from the Rubble Haiti Benefit Concert presents gospel singer Jon Gibson, soul and R&B great Cleotis Gray, Southern jazz singer and recording artist Ombrey, hip hop lyricist and recording artist Kaos, and socially conscious rapper, recording artist Sensmusic.

The performers reflect the Haitian culture in their own unique ways by highlighting reggae, jazz, hip hop, rap, gospel, inspirational songs, and spoken word. Proceeds will go directly to the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, which efforts include providing water purification systems, hygiene kits, food, and shelter.  Anecdotes will be incorporated in the concert with the help of the Haitian community. The rebuilding takes longer than you think, and there’s always room for more help and heart.

Date: Saturday, March 6, 2010

Time: 5pm – 9pm, Silent Auction begins at 5pm, concert begins at 6pm

Location: 100 N. Hillcrest Blvd., Inglewood, CA

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Washington Blvd in Mar Vista has been experiencing a great period in Los Angeles restaurants. Recently opening up and down the street between Lincoln and Sepulveda, Washington Blvd is slowly getting on the map for culinary destinations. Culver Cafe is the to-go Thai spot for great, cheap Thai in good-sized portions to fill your belly with healthy fare. They've worked wonders with the interior of the old Taco Bell. Cheaper than Celadon, the other Thai place down the street, a little less "trying too hard", and super super fresh, the Culver Cafe tastes like there’s a farm in their parking lot. The prices are great, especially for the dinner special, where you get an entree and a soup (a good-sized soup) for just $12 and some change. Culver Cafe's food isn't over-spiced, over-sauced, or heavy in any way,  just some simple, lightly sauteed veggies, fresh meat, and deliciousness in every bite. If you're looking for some great, hearty Thai food without paying crazy prices, the unassuming Culver Cafe is your place.

Culver Cafe, 13223 West Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

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If you’re in the mood for Mexican and you're around the Mar Vista/Culver City/Venice area, skip Paco’s Tacos, Tito's Tacos, La Cabanita, and Casablanca entirely. Who needs the brunch and dinner lines for some mediocre chips, watery margaritas, and fatty, greasy plates with half-hearted veggies? Go straight to Mi Ranchito, the less-known gem of a Mar Vista restaurant on Washington Blvd by Centinela. The staff is exceptionally friendly, the decor is like sitting in the middle of Christmas (but not tacky – there’s a fine line, and Mi Ranchito is on one side, Paco’s Tacos is on the other side…), and the food is completely delicious – and cheaper than their competitors. Order the Abondigas soup - it's like heaven in your mouth, even on a hot day - any taco combination, any burrito – order anything and you won’t be disappointed. If you like your Mexican food real like it was cooked by your Mexican mom, with no frills, unnecessary flares, or other extras, Mi Ranchito is your place.

Mi Ranchito, 12223 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

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