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Girls can be Superheroes too!

April 14, 2014 By Leave a Comment

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Girls can be superheroes too! is the rallying call for a global competition being launched by Arklu, who have teamed up with US non-profit organisation Brave Girls Want, which will see entrants aged 10 and under asked to design a superhero outfit for the Lottie™  doll.

 

The Lottie™ ‘Design a Superhero Outfit Competition’ is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for one lucky child to see their design come to life, with the winning superhero outfit being manufactured and made commercially available in Autumn 2014. The winning child will also see their original artwork design, first name, age, city and country on the back of the outfit packaging, in addition to winning the entire range of Lottie dolls, accessories and outfits.

 

A wholesome antidote to other leading doll brands, Lottie™ has been purposefully designed under expert guidance to both look and dress as a regular child – a childlike body shape, no make-up, jewellery or high-heels. Lottie™ also has the ability to stand on her own two feet (always a useful life skill for all girls, big and small).

 

Lucie Follett, Creative Director of Arklu, explains “Lottie™ dolls motto is ‘Be Bold, Be Brave, Be You’ and many of the Lottie™ dolls explore inspiring, empowering and adventurous themes, so this competition is a really fantastic way to build on these strong ‘pro girl’ values. We know that there is an acknowledged lack of strong female superheroes out there, so this is why we thought a campaign with the message that girls can be superheroes too! is very much needed.”

 

Entering the competition is very straightforward, and requires parental permission.

Parents and guardians are asked to download a colouring page template from the superhero contest app on the Lottie dolls Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/lottiedolls so that kids can use this as a starting point for their design, as well as describing the superpower abilities that their design has. Parents are then required to upload their child’s design onto the superhero contest Facebook app and fill in a form to grant parental permission for their child’s entry to be considered for the competition. Full terms and conditions of the competition are to be found at: http://www.lottie.com/superhero-outfit-design-competition-terms-conditions/

The hashtag #girlsuperhero will be used on social media to promote the competition, and entries will be displayed on a dedicated Pinterest folder http://www.pinterest.com/lottiedolls/girl-superhero-outfit-design-competition/

 

Entries will be judged by a panel including at least one independent panellist member of the Brave Girls Alliance, and judged on their creativity and originality, fun and overall ‘kid-appeal’, as well as keeping true to the ‘pro girl’ values that underpin both the Lottie™ brand and the Brave Girls Alliance.

Closing date for entries is 7th May 2014 and the winner will be notified confidentially in May 2014, with the public announcement being made when the winning outfit goes on sale in October 2014 – just in time for the International Day of the Girl.

 

Melissa Wardy of Brave Girls Alliance says:

“The Brave Girls Alliance is proud to support Lottie doll and their campaign that champions girls’ desire to be heroes. The Superhero contest is a great way to bring girls’ voices forward and allows them to show the world their ideas on what a girl superhero should look like and what powers they should possess.”

 

The campaign has already received support from within the comic community. Sue blogs about women in superhero comics at the incredibly popular DC Women Kicking Ass on Tumblr. She also maintains Superheroes Are For Girls and This: Moments for Women, and co-hosts the CBR podcast 3 Chicks Review Comics. She’s a loud and never-tiring voice for feminism in the cape comics blogosphere.

 

“Superheroes are for girls, too. And now with the Lottie doll children can have a female superhero that has realistic body shape. What a wonderful toy.”

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About Arklu

Arklu is a young and innovative award-winning toy company with the dynamic team of Lucie Follett and Ian Harkin at the helm.

Since her launch in August 2012, Lottie dolls have become something of a global phenomenon securing the approval of industry experts (winning 19 awards in the US, UK and Canada including 5 prestigious Oppenheim Portfolio Platinum Awards), child development experts (encouragement quotes), international press coverage and most importantly, positive feedback from the parents and children who love Lottie.

Lottie now sells in 30 countries; the www.lottie.com website appears in 17 language versions, including Chinese, Russian and Japanese.

 

About the Brave Girls Alliance

The Brave Girls Alliance is a think tank of girl empowerment experts and allies. We are a global group of nonprofit organizations, small businesses, professionals, parents, girls and other individuals who have come together to ask media content creators, large corporations, marketers and retailers to make a commitment to support girls’ empowerment.  We ask that girls have a voice in ending gender stereotypes and sexualization in the media and products created for them, and we support the parents, families and communities who join us in advocating for a healthier girlhood. www.bravegirlswant.com

 

 

Filed Under: Archived Content, Contests

Too Clever VI Jason’s Eagle

April 13, 2014 By 1 Comment

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New Children’s Book Explores Young Boys’ Fascination with American Bald Eagles.

Jason’s Eagle by Dr. Julia E. Antoine, is Volume 6 in the delightful Too Clever children’s book series. In the first story, Jason was five. Now he is 10 and full of himself. However, he has maintained his love for the American Bald Eagle, only now he is experiencing many more amazing adventures. He lives on the shores of the Long Island Sound, near Connecticut River. he is so fascinated with the American Bald Eagles that fished in the waters near his home, he spends every free moment he has watching them.

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Everything about the bald eagles fascinates Jason, from the way they fly in the sky to the way they hunt for food. Even the way they build such huge nests grabs his attention. No other bird flies like the bald eagles.

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My son and I enjoyed this book and found it an interesting book to read! We loved the illustrations and Jason’s adventures.  Aimed primarily at boys ages 9 to 12. Available on Amazon and wherever fine books are sold. For more information visit the following website. Book retails for $21.99.

Self Disclosure: I received this book for free to facilitate this feature.

Filed Under: Archived Content, Media Reviews

Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Boost & Lift Foaming Air Mousse

April 13, 2014 By Leave a Comment

Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Boost & Lift Foaming Air Mousse

I’ve tried many hair-styling Mousse products and it really is difficult to find one that works well with my hair. Well,Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Foaming Air Mousse Boost & Lift does work quite well! I like that it is weightless and does not feel heavy on my hair at all. But, my favorite thing is that it does give my hair long-lasting volume.It is also easy to comb out and it even works well if you don’t blow dry your hair. Usually when I use Mousse products, I need to blow dry my hair but not with this one! It is available online but is also available at many local stores. My local CVS and Target has it and many more locations. You can check out the website for more information and where to find it near you.

Self Disclosure: I received a FREE product to facilitate this feature but any opinions expressed are truthful.

 

Filed Under: Beauty and Fashion, Beauty and Fashion Corner

Press the President Announces Photo Contest and Tips for Americans to “Go Green” This April

April 13, 2014 By 1 Comment

For many Americans, April signifies the arrival of spring and new beginnings. This April, Press the President, an online collaborative blog, is challenging Americans to start a new beginning by “going green” and share their actions with our readers. With Earth Day taking place on April 22nd and Arbor Day taking place on April 25th, there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate the environment. Below are some tips from the editorial staff at Press the President on how you can go green this April:

 

  •          Writing Online – American businesses throw away 21 million tons of paper every year, so what better way to celebrate the environment than by writing online? Press the President allows you to engage in debates and express your opinion in an open political forum. And the best part is, not a single sheet of paper goes to waste on our articles!

 

  •          Have a Vegetarian Day – Press the President recently interviewed Congressman Jim Moran about animal rights. One way to help animals, and the globe, is go “vegetarian” once a week. Did you know that it requires 2,500 gallons of water to produce one pound of beef? By eliminating meat from your diet once a week, you are saving the environment and helping animals. On the days that you do eat meat, try to buy local grass-fed produce to help lower the carbon footprint even more.

 

  •         Rock Your Own Coffee Cup – There is no doubt America is a caffeinated nation and many of us depend on our coffee. But we can still have our coffee from restaurants and save the plastic and paper wasted containing it every day. Many coffee stores now offer discounts if you bring your own cup as well.

 

  •         Gift It, Don’t Throw It – How many times have you heard the expression ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure?’ This spring, make that a reality by donating your clothes, electronics, and other items to a charity instead of tossing them. Or get those items to a recycling bin.

 

Live in an apartment? Organize a drive with other members in your building so that you make fewer trips to the shelter and save gas as well.

 

  •        Urban Gardening:  Just because you live in the city doesn’t mean you can’t add some green to your everyday life. First Lady Michelle Obama brought urban gardening to the White House, and so have many city residents who have started community gardens to create a more sustainable lifestyle. Also consider teaching children about the importance of learning where your food comes from.

 

In addition to all these tips for living a greener lifestyle, Press the President wants you to share your story on our website and social media outlets. We are hosting a photo competition throughout the month of April because we want to see (and the President to hear and see) how you and your community are going green. To submit a picture, either tweet @PTP_US with the hashtag #GoGreen, post on our Facebook wall, or emailcontact.us@pressthepresident.com. All of the photos will be posted on Press the President’s Facebook and the winning photo will be shared with the media. At the end of the campaign, the editorial staff at Press the President will select the photo the best represents the idea of going green and will donate $500.00 to the winner’s charity of choice in their name. You can read the full contest guidelines here: http://www.pressthepresident.com/show.jsp?page=176738.

 

About Press the President:

Press the President is a worldwide forum for unfiltered debate about U.S. issues that affect the globe. The site’s founders have created a space where writers can express their opinions freely. Americans are often criticized as not having enough of a political voice. Press the President provides a platform for people who want to make their voices heard from the White House to Main Street. Online visitors can share their views at www.pressthepresident.com or visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ptp.us to join in our weekly debates. 

 

Filed Under: Announcements

It’s WordGirl to the Rescue this Earth Day!

April 12, 2014 By Leave a Comment

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It’s time for the “WordGirl News” report – and the Word of the Month for April is…“RECYCLE”!

 

It’s only right that this month’s word is “RECYCLE” – since it’s WordGirl to the rescue on April 22 with a special Earth Day-themed episode on PBS stations from coast-to-coast (check local listings). When the Birthday Girl learns that the Earth is having a celebration on her birthday, she decides to teach the Earth a lesson. Will WordGirl be able to foil the Birthday Girl and save the environmental holiday before it’s too late…?

 

The Emmy® Award-winning WordGirl, produced by Scholastic Media, follows the everyday life and superhero adventures of WordGirl as she fights crime and enriches vocabulary usage. Disguised as mild-mannered 5th-grader Becky Botsford, WordGirl arrived on planet Earth when she and her monkey sidekick, Captain Huggy Face, crashed their spaceship. WordGirl possesses extraordinary strength, with the added benefit of a colossal vocabulary. Each episode introduces four new vocabulary words and reinforces their meanings in a variety of contexts.

Tune in to PBS on Tuesday, April 22, for a special Earth Day episode of WordGirl!

Happy Earth Day!

Self Disclosure: WordGirl sponsored.

Filed Under: Announcements

In Time for Earth Day – Celebrate One of Nature’s Most Majestic Mammals – Bears

April 12, 2014 By 4 Comments

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In an epic story, Disneynature’s new film, Bears showcases a year in the life of a bear family as two young cubs are taught how to make their way in the world. Set in the grandiose Alaskan wilderness, the film follows them as they emerge from hibernation and experience the incredible world they live in complete with predators, avalanches and the search for food. “Bears is a fantastic and inspirational wild life adventure that many people will adore and watch again and again,” notes KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Gerry O, age 12. See his full review below.

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

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Video review available here.

I thought this documentary would be like a usual educational lecture-like film about bears and the life of a Mama-bear. Boy, was I completely wrong. Bears is a fantastic and inspirational wild life adventure that many people will adore and watch again and again.

The movie has a mix of action, thrills, adventure, education, comedy and, of course, adorable human-like cubs. They make you fall in love the second you see them on the screen.

The story begins when a brown bear who lives in Alaska’s national park has just gave birth. She is planning to leaves her winter nest soon with new born cubs (Amber and Scout). Then she begins her big and hard journey trying to store enough food through the season. Her name is Sky. She meets a couple of friends and protects her little ones from predators.

This film has crazy close-ups on the bears. At one point I swore the bear was less than an inch from the camera. Unlike other documentaries, this one has a storyline. Honestly, I thought that this fit better as a movie. The narrator makes us believe that the bears have feelings. I would love to know how the cameramen got so close to the bears and watched bear when she was in her winter den. That was perfect and nearly impossible. Kudos to Disney Nature for bringing us this unforgettable experience.

My favorite scene is when they search for salmon. Scout and Amber go to the beach for the first time. While Amber keeps close to mommy, Scout is in the water getting clams stuck to his claws. The scene shows that there is some family fun time anywhere in the world. Even with bears.

This movie has some thrills and some violence, remarkable since it is unscripted. I recommend this for ages 9 to 18 and give it 5 out of 5 stars. Coming out in theaters April 18.

Credit: KIDS FIRST! Coming Attractions

 

Filed Under: Archived Content, Media Reviews

Slammers snack line fuels healthy kids

April 12, 2014 By 9 Comments

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When it comes to kids snacks there is never enough! Even more true when you insert the word healthy in front of snack.

Designed as fuel in organic snack form, Slammers is a super food snack line made with active kids  in mind and sold exclusively in the U.S. These on-the-go pouches are available at Target and Safeway locations in the following four delicious flavors:

EPIC – mangoes, bananas, oranges, carrots, Greek yogurt & real vanilla
AWESOME – bananas, blueberries, strawberries, beets, acai, amaranth (a highly nutritious gluten-free grain)
CHILL’N – bananas, blueberries, butternut squash, Greek yogurt & yumberry
PUMPED – bananas, pineapple, mangos, ancient grains, butternut squash, cinnamon

Slammers makes it easy for parents to encourage kids to snack healthy without pausing in the fun!

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We received samples of the Organic Slammers and they are a hit in my house! Epic is our favorite! I say ours because yes, they are for kids but I like them too! They are just the perfect size for school lunches and for outings too! Such a great snack item for active kids! Check out the website for more information.

We have added a Giveaway! Thanks to our friends at Kids Gourmet Slammers! Two winners will win a box of each of the four flavors. To enter leave a comment below telling us which flavor (listed above) you would be most excited to have your kids try! Next, go to the Slammers Facebook Page and “like” them. Deadline to enter is April 18th. 2014 at midnight. Two winners will randomly be selected from all entries.

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this feature but any opinions expressed are truthful.

Filed Under: Archived Content

America’s Family Pet Expo Returns!

April 12, 2014 By 8 Comments

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It’s A Springtime Petstravaganza as America’s Family Pet Expo Celebrates 25 Years of Fur Flying Family Fun, Returns to the OC Fair & Event Center April 25-27
Thousands of animals, pet products, four-legged entertainment all weekend long
**Please Do Not Bring Your Pets***

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– It’s the “Bow Wow Wow” and Cat’s Meow for your favorite furry, scaled or feathered friend.  America’s Family Pet Expo (AFPE) returns to the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, April 25th – 27th.  Celebrating 25 years, this “spet-acular” event boasts a menagerie of animals including cats, dogs, miniature horses, birds, and exotic reptiles, all on display providing show guests the opportunity to experience these animals in a variety of different ways.  Interactive exhibits, educational shows and demonstrations, as well as the latest in pet trends and products for sale, make America’s Family Pet Expo fun for the whole family. Tickets are on sale now at www.PetExpoOC.org.   AFPE kindly reminds guests that the event is for humans only, pets are not allowed at the Expo.

“As our 25th year in Southern California,  we’re very proud to continue this tradition of providing exciting, family entertainment while promoting responsible pet care,” said Doug Poindexter, President of the World Pet Association, producers of the America’s Family Pet Expo.  “Every year the show grows in scope and size, from new product launches, educational seminars to our ever-popular animal adoptions, the Expo has become the ultimate destination for anything pet-related.”

 

New to the 2014 Expo is the “Extreme Canines Dog Stunt Show,” a high energy, fur-flying show with stunt dogs soaring for Frisbees, high jump flying through the air, jump roping, and running through obstacle courses.  Executive producer Chris Perondi’s show is not to be missed.

For reptile enthusiasts, Repticon, will offer guests the opportunity to touch and hold snakes, lizards, spiders , and dozens of other exotic reptiles and amphibians through hands-on demonstrations and exhibits.

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Returning to the Expo, is Dog Training with Renee.  Renee Jones comes from Alabama to teach show guests how to train their four-legged friends basic and complex commands.  She is a renowned Certified Professional Dog Trainer – “Knowledge Assessed,” and her Southern flair is a winning combination with canines and owners.

Always a fan-favorite, the ever-popular Splash Dogs take to the dock, offering a wet-and-wild canine competition as participating pups compete for the longest jump into the pool!

 

Who will win the title of Weiner Dog Race Champion? Throughout the weekend guests can watch the Wiener Dog Races as they race to the finish line.  The Dachshund traces its roots to Germany over 300 years ago, where they were bred to hunt badgers.  These puppies may be petite, but with enthusiasm and encouragement, pick your favorite dog and root them onto victory. This exciting event is presented by Old World Wiener Nationals Dachshund Races.

Interested in how canines are used to protect our communities?   At the Police and Protection Dog Demonstrations watch and learn how these K9 Officers and their pup-partners work and play while gaining a deeper appreciation for these canine protectors in our community.

Looking for answers on why your feline is finicky? The TICA Cat Show & Presentations allows you to learn about the many breeds of cats and their unique personalities.  Do you like to fly with a different crowd?  Be amazed while magnificent birds fly when The Birdman of Las Vegas soars into the Expo with a brand-new show.  

The Great American Petting Zoo offers several different animals for kids to touch, brush and feed.  Tucker’s Pony Rides, Human Hamster Wheel and Scooter the Mini Horse are some of the attractions and activities kids will love!  Also on hand will be Tickled Pink Face Painting so the little ones can “become” their favorite animal.

At the Kid’s Aquarium Contest, each participant receives a 10 gallon aquarium, heater, filter and water and the kids add their own fish and unique decorations.  The aquariums will be on display throughout the Expo and are judged according to age group and three categories:  Natural and Creative. Every participant is ultimately a winner because after the Expo, each child can bring home their creation.  Children are encouraged to sign up for participation in next year’s Kid’s Aquarium Contest.  School age kids, 5 to 16 years old are encouraged to participate.

Pet Adoptions will be handled on site for those looking to add a furry member to their family.  There will be hundreds of animals hoping to find their “furever home” from local community partner organizations at the Expo.

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General Admission, $13.00; seniors 60 and over, $11.00. Children 6-12, $8.00. 5 yrs and under, free. Active and retired military free with ID. Show hours:  Friday 10am-6pm; Saturday 10am-7pm; Sunday 10am-6pm. OC Fair and Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa 92626. Parking is $7. Kindly leave all pets at home. For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.PetExpoOC.org.

The America’s Family Pet Expo is created, produced and managed by World Pet Association, Inc., a 60-year-old nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting responsible pet care.  This year marks the 25th Anniversary of AFPE.

My son and I really look forward to this event every year! It is one of our favorites! We love the Splash Dogs and my son loves seeing all the dogs and cats!

We have teamed up for a giveaway! We have a family four pack of tickets to giveaway! To enter, simply post a cute, silly or funny photo of your pet! Don’t have a pet? That is fine too! Maybe, you will find one at the Pet Expo! Email me a photo of your fave pet or simply tell us what kind of pet you would like! Deadline to enter is  April 2nd, 2014 at midnight. One winner will randomly be selected from all entries! *I will be posting the photos you email* GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED!

Self Disclosure: I have received free ticket vouchers to facilitate this feature.

Photos we have received so far!

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*Submitted by Glenn and Dawn A

 

Filed Under: Announcements
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