Depending on how you look at the world, a hula hoop is either a dumb plastic toy that'll make you throw out your back or a new-agey way to exercise and dance and be weird. People in the latter camp gather in Echo Park for Hoopurbia, a weeklong event (through March 20) for hooping enthusiasts, which features classes, performances, competitions, flash mobs and things called "hoop jams." The extravaganza, which originated in Berlin, comes to L.A. for the first time. Put on some Spandex, grab a hoop for each limb and get your hip swivel on. <i>Read the full story: <a href="http://www.laweekly.com/arts/an-international-hula-hooping-fest-has-descended-on-la-video-6727591">An International Hula Hooping Fest Has Descended on L.A.</a></i>