Exploring places beyond one's designated comfort zone can be particularly daunting for Angelenos. For some people, it's a chronic case of AWOL (Always West of Lincoln); for others, leaving and entering the valley presents an emotional challenge. These self-imposed geographical limitations preventing us from cruising yonder aren't just based on the distance—they're because we wouldn't know where to go and which places we belonged at even once we got there. More»

After last night's kick-off events, FILTER Magazine's Culture Collide 2011 Festival is officially upon us, taking over Echo Park with more music, art and film events than John Slattery's post-modern alt spirit could physically cover. For those westsiders who suffer from AWOL (Always West Of Lincoln) Syndrome, this is the perfect opportunity to what they call in psychology "desensitize" and venture east of the 405. More»

Hey, westsiders, I know it's difficult for some of you to step outside your comfort zone and venture east of the 405 but I promise it will be worth it for this: starting with a string of official kickoff events tonight, FILTER Magazine's Culture Collide 2011 Festival is back, taking over Echo Park through the weekend with stacked lineups of musical acts, DJs from around the world, film screenings and art shows. More»