Start spelling the news.

PLAY
Scrabble Night at Deyermond Art and Books
What: Head to the anything-but-average Main Street bookstore for a night of cocktails, games, and socializing. Drinks and three boards are provided, but feel free to BYO set.
Why: Being loquacious (letter score: 21) is encouraged.
When: Thurs., 7-11 p.m.
Where: 2801 Main St., b/t Ashland Ave. & Hill St., Santa Monica (310-450-4400).

CELEBRATE
Old Russian New Year’s Eve
What: Petrossian throws a six-course prix fixe dinner ($150) that includes caviar, vodka, borscht, and beef Stroganoff.
Why: You need a do-over after weather delays had you kicking off 2011 with airport pizza and light beer.
When: Thurs., 5-10 p.m.
Where: 321 N. Robertson Blvd., at Rosewood Ave., West Hollywood (310-271-0576).

SCOOP
Carmela
What: The small-batch ice cream company goes from roaming farmers markets to its own permanent shop in Pasadena, with toppings from Valerie Confections, Sugarbird Sweets, and Blue Cupcake.
Why: Now you can go back to using Twitter to follow really important things, like Mindy Kaling.
When: Daily, noon-8 p.m.
Where: 2495 E. Washington Blvd., b/t N. Altadena Dr. & Valencia Ave., Pasadena (323-319-6084).

SHOP
How to Make Life Nice
What: Iko Iko brings its own line of housewares and lifestyle pieces to Space 15 Twenty, along with Waka Waka furniture, special pieces created by Julia Haft-Candell, Matt Merkel Hess, and more.
Why: Perennially useful home items as well as perfectly timed transitional clothing specifically for the space.
When: Thru Jan. 30. Opening reception, tonight, 7-10 p.m. Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Where: 1520 N. Cahuenga Blvd., b/t Selma Ave. & Sunset Blvd., Hollywood (323-719-1079).

PRIMP
Makeup&Go
What: The Brentwood-based hair and makeup spot opens two temporary pop-up shops in time for awards season.
Why: Great face without the sales pitch or purchase obligation.
When: Thru Mar. 1. Beverly Hills, daily, 3-7 p.m; West Hollywood, Wed.-Sun., 3-7 p.m.
Where: 152 S. Beverly Dr., b/t Charleville & Wilshire Blvds., Beverly Hills; 8654 Melrose Ave., at Norwich Dr., West Hollywood (310-451-6253).

Photo: jcolman / Flickr