You want to write prose, poetry or screenplays, but your dreams are also filled with chocolatey ice cream sandwiches and flaky cinnamon walnut pastries. Writing Pad is Marilyn Friedman's answer for the hungry scribe. She has recruited top writing teachers, who provide cozy classes both downtown and in Culver City. Workshops and panels are led by widely published authors, award-winning journalists and working television and film professionals. And there's often snackage involved. Friedman graciously hosts events in her ultra-cool loft stocked with savory appetizers and cool beverages. She's a gifted wordsmith and charmer who sets the mood for classes with candles, cushy sofas and hot tea. Her husband, Jeff Bernstein, an artist, often is around to welcome guests, and his wry sense of humor and quirky paintings lend themselves to the creative ambience. And, if you really want to inspire your inner Hemingway with a movable feast, you can attend a catered Writing Pad weekend retreat in locales such as Idyllwild, Joshua Tree or Palm Springs. Seventh Street and Santa Fe Avenue, dwntwn. (call for address); 9415 Culver Blvd., Culver City; Wilshire Corridor, Wilshire Boulevard and Beverly Glen (call for address). (323) 333-2954, writingpad.com.
—Lorinda Toledo

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