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The 1st Annual Loomy Awards

April 4, 2014 By 7 Comments

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January has the Golden Globes, February hosts the BAFTAs, and March is home to the Oscars. What better time than awards season to announce the first ever award for loom bracelet fanatics! This April, “loomers” from far and wide will submit their creations for a chance to become a Super Loomer in the 1st Annual Loomy Awards!

 

The Loomy Awards are sponsored by The Original Loom Boom, a first-of-its kind product intended to organize, display, transport and share your loom bracelet creations. Winners will be chosen from four categories: Best Bracelet, Coolest Charm, Wackiest Wearable, and Best Loom Boom. Three winners will each receive a $250 gift card, and one grand prize winner will receive a $500 gift card! Plus, all winners will receive a special edition of The Original Loom Boom! Entries can be submitted on The Original Loom Boom’s Facebook page beginning on March 30, 2014, and winners will be announced on a live web award show April 30, 2014.

Some Quick Facts about The Original Loom Boom:

  • Organize, display, transport and share your loom creations
  • Features bright colored tubes that can hold up to 40 bracelets
  • The tube is detachable from the base, giving you easy access to bracelets at the bottom
  • The base contains extra storage compartments for loom bands, charms, clips, and other spare parts
  • Available in a variety of color combinations
  • Can be purchased nationwide for $9.99 at Michael’s and Learning Express

 

 

Like all loom-crazed households, rubber-band bracelets were taking over. As moms, Katy and Lauren (Co-Founders) loved the focus and creativity it provided for their kids. Every new stitch their children learned produced more patterns, more colors and more creations. However, these bracelets were winding up everywhere, from their couch cushions to their dog’s mouth. It was a problem that needed solving! They stumbled upon a solution when Katy’s five-year-old son, Jake, housed his ever-growing collection of bracelets on a paper towel roll! What began with a simple concept has now developed into a first-of-its kind product intended to organize, display, transport and share. Sometimes children see things so clearly, and they jumped on his simple yet genius idea.

The Loom Boom features bright-colored tubes that can hold up to 40 bracelets. The tube is detachable from the base so “loomers” can transport and share, as well as have easy access to bracelets at the bottom. The base also contains extra storage for loom bands, charms, clips, and other spare parts.

Update!! Read all about it!! Review and Giveaway has been added!

We received a Loom Boom to review and it is the best way to organize and display those awesome bracelet creations! It actually can hold up to 40 of them!

We have teamed up for a giveaway! One winner will win one Loom Boom! Leave a comment below letting us know why you are entering! next, “like” their Facebook page! Deadline to enter is April 8th, 2014 at midnight. One winner will randomly be selected from all entries!

Self disclosure: The Original  Loom Boom sponsored feature.

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Filed Under: Archived Content

Lemurs – Strange Creatures You Will Never Forget!

April 3, 2014 By Leave a Comment

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Academy Award winner Morgan Freeman narrates “Island of Lemurs: Madagascar,” the true story of nature’s greatest explorers – lemurs. Captured with IMAX 3D cameras, the film takes audiences on a spectacular journey to the remote and wondrous world of Madagascar. Lemurs arrived in Madagascar as castaways millions of years ago and evolved into hundreds of diverse species but are now highly endangered. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Gerry O says, “Island of “Lemurs: Madagascar” is a fantastic documentary that every animal or nature lover will enjoy.” See his full review below.

Island of Lemurs: Madagascar

Reviewed by Gerry Orz, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12.

Video review available here: http://youtu.be/xjQSbbv2_ss
Interviews at junket: http://youtu.be/XZiTX6Kyipg
Interviews at premiere: http://youtu.be/OzsA-iyOlmI

I thought this movie would be a story of a specific lemur living in Madagascar, but I was very wrong. Nothing could have prepared me for the wonderful adventure I experienced. “Island of “Lemurs: Madagascar” is a fantastic documentary that every animal or nature lover will enjoy.

This documentary has more to offer than lemurs. It has action, comedy, adventure, thrill, education and so much more. Of course, who could possibly know that there are so many species of lemurs – the unforgettable bamboo lemur, the brown lemur, the hustle lemur and the adorable and my personal favorite – the mouse lemur.

The story begins when a scientist by the name of Dr. Patricia Wright goes to Madagascar to study lemurs. She goes to the wildest part of the vast jungles to look for one thing: bamboo lemurs, which were thought to be extinct. Lucky she proves them wrong and spends many years saving their species from extinction. We join her on her adventure and learn about the real dangers to the cute and furry animals and hear about her stories in Madagascar.

I love this film. The most mind-blowing part is how the camera crew gets so close to the wild, and sometimes posing, lemurs. There are some angles that look simply impossible to accomplish with wild animals. The film is enhanced by the narration of Morgan Freeman which makes this documentary truly unique. The filmmakers are so smart, using simple ways to get their dream shots. The entire cast of lemurs (no, they are not paid actors) are adorable and, the coolest thing is, they are not trained. Every lemur in the movie is wild.

My favorite scene is when they talk about the adorable, but powerful hand-sized, smaller primate, the mouse lemur. This little guy is captured in a trap that does not hurt him and then is taken to a place where they study and scan him. Then, he is released back to the wild with a story to tell his family.

This movie is meant for all ages but does have a bit of intensity. So, I recommend it to kids ages 6 to 18. This move also easily deserves 5 out of 5 stars. The only thing I would add is that it was too short. I wish it was longer because it is so good and interesting.

Reviewed by Gerry O., age 13, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic

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Filed Under: Archived Content, Media Reviews

Inspire Your Fire at the 19th Annual Los Angeles Times Festival of Books

April 3, 2014 By 3 Comments

The Los Angeles Times has announced the lineup and schedule for its 19th annual Festival of Books, a celebration of ideas, creativity, and the written word. This year’s festival will take place Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13, at the University of Southern California, in the heart of one of the world’s most culturally vibrant and diverse cities, with an annual attendance of more than 150,000 people. Additionally, for the first time ever, the festival is calling for local artists, comedians, musicians, photographers and poets to join The Times’ “Inspire Us” contest and upload their work for a chance to make the leap from audience to stage at this year’s event.
Notable appearances include: Hugh Acheson, Shoreh Aghdashloo, Gustavo Arellano, Reza Aslan, Philip Bailey, Mayim Bialik, T.C. Boyle, LeVar Burton, Roy Choi, Sandra Cisneros, Jackie Collins, Giada de Laurentiis, Rob Delaney, Barbara Ehrenreich, John Green, Carla Hall, Daniel Handler, Robert Hilburn, Pico Iyer, Diego Luna, Chris Kluwe, Terry McMillan, B.J. Novak, Veronica Roth, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Katherine Schwarzenegger, Maria Shriver, Alicia Silverstone, Susan Straight, Marlo Thomas, Stephen Tobolowsky, Sandra Tsing Loh, Rachel Zoe and Adrian Todd Zuniga.

The complete festival schedule is available online at: http://events.latimes.com/festivalofbooks/fob-schedule.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

Peppa Pig Party fun!

April 2, 2014 By 1 Comment

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Do you have a little one who loves Peppa Pig? I know when my son was a little younger, he loved Peppa Pig and now my nephew is a big fan! Peppa Pig follows the adventures of Peppa, a loveable little piggy who lives with her brother George, Mommy Pig and Daddy Pig.  I have to admit that Peppa even makes me laugh! She is quite the likable character!  Peppa lives in the U.K. and speaks with a sweet and engaging British accent.  She loves playing games, dressing up, going on trips and jumping in muddy puddles. Her adventures always end happily with loud snorts of laughter!

Peppa Pig airs seven days a week on Nick Jr.  Check your local listings for airtimes. Such a fun show!

For more information on Peppa Pig, please visit www.PeppaPig.com, Facebook at  Facebook.com/OfficialPeppaPigUS or Twitter at @PeppaPigUS

 But, Peppa Pig is more than just a show! Entertainment One and P2 Games are bringing everyone’s favorite little piggy to life with the new “Peppa Pig’s Party Time” app! We just had the opportunity to try out the New ” Peppa Pig’s Party Time” App and this is fun! Your child can have Peppa and her friends play party games such as Musical Chairs and a Pinata and even make a birthday cake for Peppa and the other characters. My son even had a chuckle over this one!

Featuring characters, music and sound effects from the hit TV show, “Peppa Pig’s Party Time” app will entertain the whole family with seven party-themed games and activities designed for preschoolers age 2-6. My 2 year old nephew enjoys the activities especially making the cake.

Peppa Pig’s Party Time” app is compatible with iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch and Android devices and is available at iTunes and Amazon for $4.99.

There is also a New “My Birthday Party” DVD and this one includes 14 fun-packed peppasodes  plus Never-Before-Seen Exclusive Extras about learning the alphabet and learning to count.  This is a wonderful DVD for children ages 2-6.     In the title episode “My Birthday Party,” its Peppa’s birthday and all of her friends are invited to her party where Daddy Pig gets lots of laughs with his attempt at performing a magic show. Other episodes include an exciting boat race, a school play, a costume party and more! We enjoyed watching this DVD and it is now one of my nephews favorite DVDs! He loves the bonus  extras especially the alphabet!

The “My Birthday Party” DVD is available at retailers nationwide or as a digital download on iTunes. This DVD would make a great addition to those Easter Baskets and is a Must-Have for children ages 2-6 this Spring!

Join the party with these fun printable pages and make a Peppa Pig party hat or Peppa Pig party mask! (See below!)

Peppa Hat

 

Peppa Mask

 

 

Self Disclosure: I received free products and or compensation to facilitate this feature.

 

Filed Under: Archived Content, Media Reviews

Jellyfish

April 2, 2014 By Leave a Comment

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Looking for fun Smartphone accessories especially for girls (or women?)  Jellyfish is a smartphone accessory brand crafted especially for girls that would be perfect this Spring!  Jellyfish allows girls to accessorize their phone for under $40!  Now, how cool is that?! They offer cases, headsets, speakers, portable chargers and more in bright, fun colors, perfect for Spring and Summer! I received samples of these products and just love the fun, bright colors and the quality! The speaker works really well and so does the charger and the headphones! I simply can’t decide which product is my favorite! I really like the accessory sets! What a great gift for tweens  and teenage girls this Spring! Mom’s will love these products too! (Hint! Mother’s Day will be here soon!) To find out more about these products, check out the website. You can also follow them on Twitter and “like” them on Facebook. These products really are Spring (and Summer) must-haves!

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Self Disclosure: I received products for free to facilitate this feature. Photo Credit: Jellyfish.

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week

New retailer specializes in dresses for every occasion, fashion apparel

April 2, 2014 By 3 Comments

Stumped on what to wear on that special night on the town? Simon Property Group’s (NYSE: SPG) Westminster Mall is excited to announce that Windsor Fashions will open its doors this Friday, April 4, just in time for prom season.

 

Located on the upper level of Westminster Mall in a 5,771 square-foot shop by Sears, Windsor offers women’s and junior’s contemporary apparel and accessories, including everything from blazers to strappy sandals, and printed scarves to rompers.

 

However, the retailer’s forte is special occasion dresses, whether formal, casual or designer. Budding fashionistas can find the perfect dress to wear to homecoming, graduation, prom, job interviews, weddings and more.

 

“Windsor offers shoppers a great place to find on-trend fashions at affordable prices,” said Nate Weirbach, director of marketing and business development at Westminster Mall.  “Not only is Windsor a go-to shop for prom wear, but they also offer a great selection of fashions year-round, and we are excited to welcome them to Westminster Mall.”

Los Angeles-based, Windsor was founded in 1937 by brothers Maurice and Albert Zekaria, and remains family-owned. The royal sounding moniker was inspired by a postcard of Windsor Castle in England.

Windsor is the newest retailer in to join Westminster Mall. Health club gym Chuze Fitness, joined the center in late December 2013, and Health Coffee joined this February.

Located on the upper level next to JCPenney, the 17,500 square-foot Westminster location is the tenth Chuze Fitness to open in California and offers a variety of services meant to provide members with everything needed for a good workout and relaxation. The facility contains more than 80 pieces of cardio equipment and 45 pieces of strength training equipment, free weights, tanning, HydroMassage and group fitness classes. Memberships are available starting at $9.99 per month.

Chuze Fitness Westminster is open Monday through Thursday from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fridays from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., andSaturday to Sunday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Healthy Coffee offers a unique coffee experience with delicious salads, soups, and sandwiches. Focused on bringing health to the world’s largest and most popular drink, coffee, Healthy Coffee combines the health benefits of Ginseng, Reishi Mushroom, and other top quality ingredients with the world’s finest coffee beans to create a line of deliciously healthy instant gourmet coffee drinks. The shop is located on the upper level near JCPenney.

Westminster Mall also added new dining options last year, including TGI Fridays, which offers great food, innovative drinks and a unique social experience filled with flair, and CUPS Frozen Yogurt, a fun, quirky frozen yogurt shop offering expertly crafted frozen yogurt products with 24 flavors and over 50 toppings. Westminster Mall’s CUPS is be the first location outside of New York and New Jersey. Both TGI Friday and CUPS are located on the upper level at the entrance between Sears and Target.

As an extra perk, a Farmer’s Market is being held at Westminster Mall every Thursday, through mid-November.  Located in the parking lot near Target and Outback Steakhouse from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Westminster Mall’s Farmer’s Market offers fresh produce, kettle corn, bread, pasties, hummus, flowers and more.

 

For more information, visit Westminster Mall on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/WestminsterMall on Twitter athttps://twitter.com/ShopWestminster or on Instagram at http://instagram.com/shopwestminster.

 

About Westminster Mall

Westminster Mall is a modern shopping center that features some of the best names in retail including Macy’s, JCPenney, Sears, Target, Victoria’s Secret PINK, Old Navy and more. In addition to more than 180 specialty stores with shops ranging from teen apparel to shoes to women’s apparel and jewelry, Westminster Mall also features exciting dining destinations such as Outback Steakhouse, Todai and the newly opened T.G.I. Friday’s and CUPS Frozen Yogurt. In November 2008, Westminster Mall completed a multi-million dollar renovation. Included were brand new family restrooms, a first of its kind children’s fully soft play area, new interior and exterior directional signage. The entire lower level of the center was carpeted for guest’s shopping enjoyment and comfort.  For a map and store listings, as well as directions, events and job listings, visit http://www.simon.com/mall/westminster-mall or call 714-898-2558.

 

About Simon Property Group

Simon Property Group, Inc. (NYSE: SPG) is an S&P 100 company and a global leader in the retail real estate industry.  The Company currently owns or has an interest in more than 325 retail real estate properties in North America, Asia and Europe comprising approximately 243 million square feet. We are headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana and employ approximately 5,500 people in the U.S.  For more information, visit the Simon Property Group website atwww.simon.com.

 

About Windsor Fashions, Inc.

Windsor is an apparel and accessory company creating products that fit the life and work styles of today’s junior and contemporary woman. We are famous for our Special Occasion dresses. Windsor is the best shopping destination for Prom. Check us out at the mall or at www.WindsorStore.com.

 

 

Filed Under: Announcements

Sweet Easter with SweetWorks!

April 1, 2014 By 20 Comments

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It’s almost Easter time and what is Easter without chocolate eggs and chocolate bunnies? My favorites are from SweetWorks! They have different brands from the Niagara Chocolates (my fave!) to the Celebration by SweetWorks! Niagara Chocolates has the best chocolate rabbits but they also have so many other chocolate products such as a Cross and my favorite are the semi-solid milk chocolate assortment! These are 3 oz. pieces and they are too delicious for words! They have choices in milk, dark and white chocolate and they even have a 14″ Semi-Solid Milk Chocolate Rabbit! Sixlets are a big hit with my son and he loves the Spring Mix! My husband is a big fan of the Gumballs!  I can’t imagine Easter without these delicious products!

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Check out all the products at SweetWorks!

We have teamed up for a Easter Spring Time SWEET Giveaway! One winner will win an Easter package filled with delicious Easter goodies! (See image below!)

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To enter leave us a comment below telling us which one would be your favorite! next, “like” the SweetWorks Facebook page and the SoCal City Kids Facebook Page too! Deadline to enter is April 7th at midnight. One winner will randomly be selected from all entries.

Self Disclosure: I received free products to facilitate this feature.

Filed Under: Archived Content

What do April Fools and parenting have in common?

April 1, 2014 By 29 Comments

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National car donation charity Kars4Kids announced today the launch of its new division Kids4Kars, a kid donation program. Kids4Kars provides free pickup of all donations of kids, offering a free lifetime vacation to donors in return.

“We’d been getting requests for this service on social media and from callers for years,” says Kars4Kids spokesman Morris Franco. “People would call up and be like ‘I have a kid that I’d like to donate. She’s somewhat bratty but does well in school. What can I get in return?’ After we got enough of these parents calling, we realized that there was a real need for kid donation that wasn’t being filled by anyone else. So we decided to step up to the plate.”

Prospective donors are directed to the charity’s website, www.kids4kars.org, where they can submit a donation using the quick online form and get answers to commonly asked questions about the donation process. The program’s website boasts that they will accept kids up to age 12 “in any condition,” provided that the donor is the child’s legal parent.

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It is only after donors submit their donations that they are hit with the true purpose of the Kids4Kars site. “April Fools!” reads the confirmation message. But it’s not just a funny prank. The Kars4Kids team has a serious message for parents. “Your kids are worth more than you think.”

Citing a study by the Boston Medical Center, Kars4Kids is hoping to bring awareness to the damage parents’ usage of devices while with their children can have on their children and their relationships. A full 73 percent of parents pay more attention to their mobile phones than to their children during mealtime, a time traditionally reserved for family and focused conversation. The Kids4Kars campaign encourages parents to ignore their devices during times reserved for their children, such as dinner and bedtime.

“We felt that we needed to hit hard to get the gravity of the message across,” Franco says. “With the increasing temptations of our mobile devices, it’s harder and harder to stay focused on our children, which can have serious implications for their development. The shock value of an April Fools prank allowed us to wake parents up to the damage they can do to their children by focusing on their devices instead of their kids.”

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Kars4Kids is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that works to give back to the community through a variety of education, youth development, family outreach and faith-based programs. The charity provides an array of services to children and families including educational programming, school placement, tuition assistance, mentorship programs, cultural activities, religious instruction, recreation and guidance counseling.

Self Disclosure: Kars4Kids sponsored feature.

Filed Under: Announcements, Archived Content
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