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Journey to the South Pacific – An Underwater Spectacular in Imax 3D

January 21, 2014 By Leave a Comment

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Directors Stephen Judson and Greg MacGillivary who specialize in these big format nature films really surpass themselves in this incredible Imax 3D film about the South Pacific. You will take an underwater voyage to Indonesia where you learn about its inhabitants such as giant rays and whale sharks as well as efforts being made in the region for ocean conservation. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Gerry O says,” Not only that but this film is in 3D as well, together making a spectacular IMAX adventure that make you feel like you’re in the movie.” See his full review below

Journey to the South Pacific

Reviewed by Gerry Orz, age 11, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic

Video review available here.

Interview with the director available here.

This documentary, as you can guess from the title, is about fish and sea. Unlike many documentaries, this one doesn’t just educate you it also tells you a warming story.

 

This film has a lot of different things that everyone would love. It has education, geography, comedy, music, fish, culture and many more things everyone would enjoy.

The story begins when a young boy lives on an island in gorgeous Indonesia. What is very unique about the story is that it follows a boat that travels to different islands and takes kids from each on a “floating school” where they dive, play fun games and, of course, learn about fish. When the young boy goes on this boat, he leaves home for a couple months for a wonderful aquatic adventure.

 

My favorite scene is when they talk about the corals singing and they show different marine species making sounds with music-like voice overs and, the funny thing is, they do it in a chorus-like rhythm. I love it because it’s light hearted and funny.

Unlike most new movies, this film was taped on a real film, not digital. This gives more in-depth colors. And, it’s shot on Imax film which is ten times larger than 35mm which gives better quality because of the larger frame. Not only that but this film is in 3D as well, together making a spectacular IMAX adventure that make you feel like you’re in the movie. The director does a wonderful job as does the narrator. I’m impressed.

This movie is definitely suitable for ages 1 to 18. Younger kids would not understand it completely but they would still enjoy the colors and the music. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars.  This movie is available in select Imax theaters nationwide.

 

Credit: KIDS FIRST! Coming Attractions

 

 

Filed Under: Archived Content, Media Reviews

Michael Phillip Cash

January 18, 2014 By Leave a Comment

You won’t want to miss this exciting Giveaway!



You have seen his books and been mesmerized. You have heard he has been on the #1 best sellers list. You want to see more books written. 
Well, stay tuned. There is much more coming from Michael Phillip Cash.



For now, Michael Phillip Cash wants you to enjoy reading his books again and have a little money in your pocket too. He is generously giving away $50 Paypal cash and all four of his published books. Wow! 


Enter this giveaway today because just like his books, this giveaway is sure to be a thriller!


Disclosure: This giveaway is sponsored by Michael Phillip Cash and is being coordinated by Away We Go Media. SoCal City Kids was asked to help promote this giveaway and is not responsible for prize shipment. Winner will be chosen at random by Rafflecopter. Winner has 48 hours to respond to an email sent to them or an alternate winner will be chosen. Winner must have an active Paypal account and money will be paid in US dollars only.
Giveaway is open Worldwide. This giveaway is in no way affiliated with Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest,YouTube or any other social media site. Giveaway ends Feb. 2, 2014 at 12AM MST.


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Filed Under: Archived Content

Elfa Books Giveaway Opportunity!

January 18, 2014 By 1 Comment


Blueberry Bubblegum World? Doesn’t that sound fun?



What happens when kids lie and don’t do as their parents have told them to do? Well, it is possible that they just might be transported to Blueberry Bubblegum World! 



Get ready for adventure! School’s out, and Max is gearing up for a summer of baseball with his friends. He’s expecting fun in the sun and long, lazy days. But to his surprise, he finds himself transported to a strange and wonderful world after chewing magical blueberry bubble gum—bubble gum his parents warned him not to chew! Join Max in his adventures through Blueberry Bubble Gum World and meet the fascinating creatures who live there—the Blueberry Boy, King Erudition, and the lumpy, moldy green evil Waywards. Will Max learn his lesson and find his way home? Find out in this thrilling journey! 

Elfa books is generously giving away$25 Paypal and  a signed copy of his book, Blueberry Bubble Gum. Enter today because just like bubblegum flavor, it won’t last long!




Disclosure: Away We Go Media is coordinating this giveaway and several other bloggers have brought you this great giveaway. My blog, SoCal City Kids was asked to help  promote. 
This giveaway is sponsored by Elfa Books and is responsible for prize shipment. The giveaway is open US only and will be paid in US dollars only.
The winner must respond to an email sent within 48 hours or forfeit prize. Giveaway runs from January 18, 2014 to February 2, 2014 at 12 AM MST. 
This is in no way affiliated with Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or any other social media outlet.



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Filed Under: Archived Content

Shandle Giveaway Opportunity!

January 17, 2014 By Leave a Comment
 
 
Don’t miss this terrific Giveaway Opportunity! Great for those with very little children!!
 
Do you have little kids in the potty training stage? Do you hate lifting the toilet seat so you can clean it? Then a Shandle toilet seat handle is just the thing you need.

 

 

                                    Meet The Shandle!

This sample of products shown are a three pack.


Right now you may be asking what exactly is a Shandle.

To put it simply, it is an inexpensive toilet seat handle with a durable peel-and-stick application that can take all sorts of abuse!


“The Shandle instantly gives small hands more control when lifting and lowering the toilet seat. Goodbye seat slamming, Hello healthy habits!”


 




  • Easy peel-and-stick installation.
  • Built-In Antimicrobial Protection
  • Waterproof decals on both sides.
  • Product Size: 3″ x 3″
  • Made from ABS Plastic.
 
Shandle-Toilet Seat Handle would love for you to visit and also purchase one of their toilet handles.
 
Shandle is generously giving away $25 Paypal Cash and one of their toilet seat handles to one lucky reader. This giveaway is open US only.
Enter in the Rafflecopter below for your chance.
Thanks Shandle!

 
 
 
Disclosure: I have partnered with Away We Go Media and several other bloggers to bring you this great giveaway. SoCal City Kids is not responsible for prize shipment. This giveaway is sponsored by Shandle-Toilet Seat Handle. The giveaway is open US only and will be paid in US dollars only.
The winner must respond to an email sent within 48 hours or forfeit prize. Giveaway runs from January 18, 2014 to February 2, 2014 at 12 AM MST. 
This is in no way affiliated with Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or any other social media outlet.
 


 

Filed Under: Archived Content

SweetWorks Niagara Chocolates Footballs and Celebration by SweetWorks chocolate balls wrapped in gold and blue foils for Super Bowl!

January 14, 2014 By 21 Comments

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Super Bowl is almost here! Is your favorite team going to be in it? Although, I am not a big football follower, I do enjoy watching Super Bowl! Okay, Okay…maybe it’s mainly for the commercials but it’s still a fun event in our household! Niagara Chocolates and Celebration by SweetWorks can make the day even sweeter with their delicious mouth-watering chocolates! Niagara Chocolates has  Foiled Solid Milk Footballs and they are yummy! Celebration by SweetWorks has Foiled Solid Milk Chocolate Balls in a variety of colors. My son loves these! We have teamed up with SweetWorks for a Super Bowl Giveaway!  First, leave a comment below telling us your favorite Football team! Next, “like” the SweetWorks  Facebook Page and make sure to “like” our Facebook page too! Deadline to enter is January 25th, 2014 at midnight. One winner will win a  gift bag (see photo below!) that includes SweetWorks Niagara Chocolates Footballs and Celebration by SweetWorks chocolate balls wrapped in gold and blue foils. It comes to just under 4 lbs.
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Self Disclosure: I did not receive free products to facilitate  this Giveaway. Photo Credit: SweetWorks.

 

Filed Under: Archived Content

Linda Marie Smith

January 13, 2014 By Leave a Comment

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The ancient Celtic legend of the Selkie, a mythical seal with the mysterious ability to metamorphose into a human being, is the setting for Chicago-based singer/songwriter Linda Marie Smith’s fourth album, Mearra – Selkie from the Sea, to be released in February 2014.

With a genre-crossing vocal style that encompasses a folk/rock sensibility, Linda Marie Smith’s music is romantic, soulful, earthy, and mystical, with lyrics and melodies that weave colorful stories of curious places and intriguing people.  Linda has been compared to the likes of Christina Perri, Aimee Mann, Lucinda Williams, Natalie Merchant, Jewel, and Sarah McLachlan.

An enigmatic and bittersweet story of love, loss, and transformation,Mearra – Selkie from the Sea begins with Mearra, a young Selkie maiden, falling in love with Ian, a lonely fisherman entranced by her beauty.  Mearra bids farewell to her life in the sea, marries Ian, and starts a family.  However, at the end of seven years, a Selkie must return to her watery cosmos.  The sea inexorably calls for Mearra’s return.

Mearra – Selkie from the Sea transports listeners, inviting chldren and adults alike to use their imaginations as they enter an enchanted world that has inspired writers and composers like Yeats, Synge, and Arnold Bax for centuries.  The highly evocative “Ian’s Song” sets a mood of Celtic mystery.  “Mearra” follows, and the listener is swept up in an expansive cloud of orchestral colors created by strings, percussion, and synthesizer that conjures images of sea, sky, and wild, rocky coastline.   “All This and More” delivers a change of pace with something of a Nashville country sound, which effectively introduces a human element into the watery, mystical world of the Selkie.  The jazziest number on the album is “Heaven Knows,” with its upbeat rhythm set by piano, concertina, and enthusiastic hand clapping.

We received this CD to review and really enjoyed the musical story! My son says some of the songs are catchy and he says it’s great for down time.

Immersed in music since childhood, Linda Marie Smith turned her attention to songwriting as an adult, and, in 1998, released a self-titled debut album, followed two years later by a second album, Blame it on the Moon.  Linda’s first multi-media show, the critically acclaimed The Triumph of Artemisia, premiered in 2006, as did her album by the same name.   Her current project, the multi-media experience Mearra – Selkie from the Sea, forms the basis for its accompanying album, produced by Rich Rankin at Mosaic Music in Chicago.

Honored by the Billboard Songwriting Contest, Linda Marie Smith’smusic has also received recognition from the Illinois Arts Council in conjunction with the National Endowment for the Arts.  In addition to recording and performing, she teaches at Chicago’s famed Old Town School of Folk Music.

Mearra – Selkie from the Sea will be available online at CDBaby.com and iTunes.

Check out Linda Marie Smith’s website at http://lindamsmith.com.

Self Disclosure: We received this CD to facilitate this post.

Filed Under: Archived Content, Media Reviews

Amy Adams

January 13, 2014 By 2 Comments

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Makeup artist Stephen Sollitto created a “chic” 1970s-inspired makeup look for Adams, who won the Golden Globe for “Best Actress (Musical or Comedy)” for her role as Sydney Prosser in “American Hustle.”

Sollitto stated, “This whole season, in a nod to Amy’s movie ‘American Hustle,’ we have been inspired by the ‘70s. With their fantastic smiles, healthy glows and brushed out hair, we have kept the decade’s style in mind for each look.”

FACE: Flawless, bronzed, glowing skin was the focus of the look

 

·         Sollitto began prepping Adams’ skin the evening before the Globes, instructing the actress to apply RéVive Moisturizing Renewal Cream Retexturizing Hydrator, ($195) and RéVive Moisturizing Renewal Eye Cream Ultra Retexturizing Hydrator, ($140) after cleansing her skin. 

·         The day of the awards, Sollitto applied the NEW Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Flawless Fluide (COMING FALL 2014)all over Adams’ face. Sollitto stated, “This foundation goes on easily but the finish is very polished. It’s long wearing, oil free and lightweight. The best thing is that is gives you a matte finish so you don’t have to dust your face with loose powder. It’s built in, simple and genius.”

·         To “catapult” the look into the ‘70s, Sollitto applied a light dusting of Laura Mercier Bronzing Pressed Powder in Matte Bronze, ($32).

·         He achieved the “perfect glow” by applying Laura Mercier Crème Cheek Colour in Praline, ($24) to Adams’ cheeks using his fingers.

LIPS: “Nudish orange” lips supported the star’s “bronzy glow”

·         Sollitto applied a mixture of Laura Mercier Crème Lip Colour in Discretion and Tangerine, ($24/each) because the customized shade “supported Adams’ bronzy glow, but didn’t compete with it for attention.”

 EYES: Neutral eyes that “pop”

·         First, Sollitto created a modern neutral base by applying Laura Mercier Baked Eye Colour in Ballet Pink, ($23) all over Adams’ lids.

·         Next, he brushed Laura Mercier Baked Eye Colour in Terracotta, ($23) into Adams’ lash line and lid, and sweeping it out at the corners of her eyes and under her bottom lashes.

·         To make Adams’ eyes “pop,” he applied Laura Mercier Caviar Eye Stick Colour in Plum, ($26) to her upper lash line and the outer corner of her lower lash line.

·         He then applied Dior Diorshow Blackout Mascara ($25) to her upper and lower lashes.

·         Sollitto finished the look by dotting Laura Mercier Caviar Eye Stick Colour in Sugar Frost, ($26) to the corners of the Adams’ eyes.

 Credit: Laura Mercier

Filed Under: Beauty and Fashion, Beauty and Fashion Corner

Newly Imagined Build-A-Bear Workshop Store

January 13, 2014 By 17 Comments

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 Build-A-Bear Workshop®, the interactive entertainment retailer of customized stuffed animals, announced today that it will open a highly anticipated newly imagined store in Torrance, Calif at Del Amo Fashion Center  on Jan 24. The store is enhanced with innovative technology to provide a richer, more interactive experience for Guests. The company expects to operate approximately 30 locations in this new store format by the end of 2013 with an additional 20 to 25 locations planned in 2014.

“At Build-A-Bear Workshop, we are continually innovating to provide breakthrough experiences and products for today’s generation of tech-savvy kids,” said Sharon John, Chief Executive Officer and Chief President Bear of Build-A-Bear Workshop. “We are thrilled to bring our newly imagined store to Del Amo Fashion Center and look forward to having fun and making memories with our Guests.”

“We are excited for Build-A-Bear Workshop to bring its newly designed store to Del Amo Fashion Center,” said Lindsay Hermance, director of marketing and business development at Del Amo Fashion Center. “As a fellow leader in the interactive retail space, Build-A-Bear Workshop is providing a special destination to Del Amo Fashion Center that we know families will enjoy for years to come.”

Guests who visit the new store will see a noticeable change to the company’s trademarked stuffed animal-making experience including:

  • An interactive storefront that is enabled by Microsoft’s Kinect technology and interactive touch elements. Guests can play games and view the latest product offerings as they enter the store.
  • The Love Me station allows Guests to customize their furry friends with special personality attributes displayed as emoticons on an interactive table. Guests add unique traits – like brave, silly, and smart – to their red satin heart, which is added to their stuffed animal during the Stuff Me process.
  • The Hear Me station features an assortment of high quality sounds that can be added to stuffed animals. Using an interactive touch screen, Guests can select and load popular hits from current music, sounds, or their own voice onto a chip to further personalize their stuffed animal.
  • The Fluff Me station features a digital bath tub that recognizes the items as they are placed on it and reacts with sensory effects such as virtual bubbles that appear when play soap is placed on the “water surface.”
  • The Name Me station, where Guests use a viewfinder or “Bear-O-Scope” to reveal the special attributes they added to their stuffed animal. At Name Me, Guests also create a one-of-a-kind birth certificate that includes a photo of their new furry friend.

Through these interactive elements, Guests can personalize the bear-making process and have a different experience each time they visit. The store includes a number of technology platforms that enable Build-A-Bear Workshop to continue to update the store experience. Similar to how one might download a new app to a mobile device, the company is able to update the stations inside the store with interactive experiences that are relevant to certain product launches and seasons.

For more information, visit the company’s award-winning website, buildabear.com® and take a virtual tour of the new store at http://bit.ly/QAoJqJ .

About the Newly Imagined Build-A-Bear Workshop Stores

Build-A-Bear Workshop, the interactive entertainment retailer of customized stuffed animals, has created a newly imagined store design that merges the love of a teddy bear with the best of technology. In 2012, the company opened six newly imaged stores in select markets across the U.S. The newly imagined store received the Digital Signage Expo 2013 Award of the Year and a Gold Apex Award in Retail. In 2012, the store received Retail Touch Points Customer Engagement Award for in-store experience and was the first brick and mortar store to receive the Wired Trust Socially Safe Seal. By 2014, the company expects to refresh 40 to 50 locations with either full or partial elements of the new design format.  To learn more about the newly imagined Build-A-Bear Workshop store, take a virtual tour at http://bit.ly/QAoJqJ.

About Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc.

Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. is the only global company that offers an interactive make-your-own stuffed animal retail-entertainment experience. There are more than 400 Build-A-Bear Workshop stores worldwide, including company-owned stores in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Canada, the United Kingdom and Ireland, and franchise stores in Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, the Middle East, Mexico and South America. Founded in St. Louis in 1997, Build-A-Bear Workshop is the leader in interactive retail. Brands include make-your-own Major League Baseball® mascot in-stadium locations, and Build-A-Dino® stores. Build-A-Bear Workshop extends its in-store interactive experience online with its award winning virtual world website at bearville.com™. The company was named to the FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For® list for the fifth year in a row in 2013. Build-A-Bear Workshop (NYSE: BBW) posted total revenue of $380.9 million in fiscal 2012. For more information, call 888.560.BEAR (2327) or visit the company’s award-winning website at buildabear.com®.

 

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Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News
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