Syd Straw has a few things to get off of her chest. Her shows are filled with feisty, intense songs and hilarious anecdotes. She always travels with her constant companion, the adorable dog, Henry. He usually ends up on stage at some point in an attempt to steal the show. The last time she played at McCabe's, a member of the audience asked her to marry him. She also somehow ended up with a $20......

Vermont was my favorite neighborhood "upscale" joint when I lived in Los Feliz. Not only was the food outstanding, but the service was attentive to the point of obsequiousness. Once during a particularly romantic meal, a waiter casually dropped a large cloth napkin on my table and gave it a few pats, then continued on his way with great aplomb. I was confused by the intrusion until I realized that I had set the......