
You waited until the very last minute to buy your Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa presents. There is still time to give your loved ones the gift of art. Become a member of Machine Gallery in Echo Park. Mark Allen, its founder, promises a "complimentary hug" to new members. He writes: "We are going to have our first members event of 2009 on the evening of Saturday, January 24th - a magical tour of our mysterious basement featuring the secret bookstore, weird prop collection, hidden greenhouse and special musical guests. And snacks!"
Levels of love: range from $5 to $1,024. The $128 is a nice level. You get 10% off all classes and workshops, free drinks at the secret bar, membership merit badge, and admission to all member events.
Also buy books and stuff, like an Almanac with every event they ever had. (In basket above, puppy not included.)