Chris H.

Tashman Screens and Hardware

If you need screens on your windows (or to have old ones replaced), Tashman's is a good place to call. They will come out and measure everything, and have the screens installed fairly quickly. Their prices are also reasonable and they are upfront about how pricing is done. Avoid big chain stores like Home Depot and go here instead - you will get a better deal.

Sparkys

Sparky's is the place to go for vintage toys, candy, and novelty items. If you're in the stocking stuffer market - or maybe gift bags for kid's birthday parties - this is the place to go. They've even got some of the crazier candy from when we were kids, like candy cigarettes.

Moes Flowers

While it's true that they have nice flowers and their pre-arranged stuff is high quality, it's never worth the price tag. If you want even a modest little arrangement, be prepared to drop fifty bucks easily. For the money, you're better off going three blocks north to Flowers Wholesale. Also, avoid this place for seasonal stuff like pumpkins and wreaths - their prices are really inflated.

Flowers Wholesale

I can't say enough about this place. The woman (or man, if he's into flowers) in your life will never be disappointed, and neither will your wallet. They have a huge selection and will help you put something together. Or you can do it yourself, if you are so inclined. Bring in your own vase, and they'll help you fill it. All at reasonable prices.

PROS: Plenty of parking in the back
CONS:

Kitson

Alot of the stuff they sell is trendy and will die with the next fad (i.e. they have "Team Aniston" and "Team Jolie" t-shirts now), but it's a good place if you're looking for a hip gift for the teenager in your life. Be sure to go across the street to Kitson Kids for witty and irreverent kid and baby clothes ("My parents call me No.").

Soolip Paperie & Press

This local place doesn't just carry stationary, they also carry a pretty large selection of paper - including wrapping paper. Also, they have a second store (out back, you have to ask how to walk through the courtyard to get to it) with unique gifts. Prices are high, so stick with Hallmark for the every day stuff but go to Soolip for special occassion stuff.

PROS:
CONS: Street parking is limited

Disneyland

This is a great place for kids and adults, and even better now that Downtown Disney has been built. Best to go on a weekday when it's not too crowded so you don't end up spending an entire day waiting in lines to get on rides. Also, the shops and restaurants at Downtown Disney are not to be missed.

Santa Palm Car Wash

This car was isn't as bad as far as car washes in the neighborhood go, but I've noticed that the amount of time it takes to get out is sometimes excessive. Fortunately, there is enough to do in the surrounding area to occupy a few minutes while you drop off your car.

Mordigan Nurseries

This place has a decent selection of plants, and they always have great service. Parking can be tricky, but that is to be expected for almost any business on 3rd street.

Miller Mike Toyota

This was not a good car shopping experience. First, you get bombarded when you first walk over. Literally two salesmen faught over who was next to speak with customers. Then, they keep pushing the "how much do you want to spend" and not so much "what kind of car do you want to drive"? Then, when you ask to look at their financing deals, the math just doesn't add up. When you call the salesman on it, he plays dumb, says he has no idea how finance works, and says he'll send over the manager. When we finally got around to test driving a car, we ended up not in the car that we were interested in but instead in the car THEY thought we should buy. Avoid this place if you can.