Archives for 2015

The Transporter Refueled – A Reboot of An Action Series With Mixed Reviews

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There are many mixed reviews on this film which opened this weekend. Many people were disappointed that Jason Statham was replaced by newcomer Ed Skrein. The story follows a former special-ops mercenary, Frank Martin, now living a less perilous life – or so he thinks – transporting classified packages for questionable people. When Frank’s father (Ray Stevenson) pays him a visit in the south of France, their father-son bonding weekend takes a turn for the worse when Frank is engaged by a cunning femme-fatale, Anna (Loan Chabanol), and her three seductive sidekicks to orchestrate the bank heist of the century. Our reviewers also had mixed reactions. Tre’ana H., age 11 comments, “The Transporter Refueled is an action-packed, thriller and crime film. The director Camille Delamarre delivers this spine-chiller in a way that keeps you in suspense the whole time.” Willie J, age 16 adds, “I think this movie is very average. As a person who knows films and has seen plenty of action films, this movie offers nothing special.” See their full reviews below.

The Transporter Refueled

By Tre’ana H., age 11, September 4, 2015 KIDS FIRST! Film Critic

 

The Transporter Refueled is an action-packed, thriller and crime film. The director Camille Delamarre delivers this spine-chiller in a way that keeps you in suspense the whole time.  Their fashion is sleek and sophisticated.

This film takes place in the south of France where Frank Martin (Ed Skrein) enters into a world full of trouble. His father Frank Senior (Ray Stevenson) goes to visit his son for a weekend without knowing what he will encounter. Frank is the Uber person that transports you wherever you want to go without any questions being asked.  He stumbles upon trouble when he is engaged by a cunning sinister women Anna (Loan Chabanol) and her three seductive sidekicks to orchestrate the bank heist of the century.  He must use his courageous skills with his super fast Audi and slick women to outrun a Russian kingpin. But, it is not over because the women want revenge.  This is the beginning.  That’s all I can reveal.

My favorite part is when Frank Martin and Anna and her three side chicks are leaving the club after they terrorized the patrons.  Frank gets into an altercation outside and puts all the women in the car and tells them not to touch anything.  While he is fighting, the car rolls down the ramp by itself.  It is awesome! I really enjoyed that part.

The message of the film is to love your children dearly, no matter how hard it gets and don’t ever give up on them for money.

I recommend this film for ages 13 to 18 and give it 3 out of 5 stars because it did not really keep my interest.  Also, I feel this is inappropriate film for children under the age of 13 but people older will appreciate it.

This movie is in theaters now so, if you’re over the age of 13, check it out.

The Transporters Refueled
by Willie J, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic age 16

 

I have to start this review off by saying that I have not seen the previous three previous Transporter films. I am reviewing this film as it stands on its own and not as the fourth sequel in the franchise so take my criticism with that in mind, for better or for worse.

With that said, I think this movie is very average. As a person who knows films and has seen plenty of action films, this movie offers nothing special. It has some nice moments, but there are plenty of mistakes that could have, and should have been, been avoided. What I do know from the series is that Jason Statham is replaced in this film so it is like a re-birth for a new era. If that is the case then, it’s not off to a great start. But, it’s not off to bad one either.

The best parts of the film are the action sequences. They are things of beauty, filled with excitement, vivacity and cool effects. There are good performances for a film of this kind, especially from Ray Stevenson. There’s even a nice twist towards the end.

But, there is an awful romantic subplot, with inconsistent characterization.  The fact is that this action movie is no different than any other action movie as you’ll see. It’s entertaining, yet forgettable.

For fans of the series, I’m sorry I can’t help you more. I liked it for the most part and I’m not a fan. So perhaps that means you’ll like it even more than me. I hope so.

I give it 2 1/2 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 15 to 18. Some of the content pushes its rating. Some of which had me question what the original cut looked like. This film is in theaters now.

 

Credit: KIDS FIRST! Upcoming Attractions, www.kidsfirst.org.

 

Back-to-school solution for getting kids to eat more fruits and veggies

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Looking for a way to get your children to eat healthier? Maybe to eat more fruits and veggies?  The new Del Monte Fruit & Veggie Fusions may just help with that!

The New Del Monte Fruit & Vefggie Fusions are a blend of fruit in a lightly sweetened vegetable and fruit juice that equals one combined serving of fruit and vegetables in each cup (contains 1 serving (1/2 cup) that is 75% fruit and 25% vegetables, per USDA Nutrient Data). Del Monte Fruit & Veggie Fusions are perfect for parents searching for a solution to get fruits and veggies into kids’ lunchtime meals and after-school snacks.

 

The cups come in three delicious flavors – Peach Mango, Apple Pear Watermelon, Cherry Fruit Trio –they are a great source of Vitamin C and do not contain high fructose corn syrup or artificial flavors or sweeteners. Available nationwide now for a suggested retail price of $2.99 for four 4oz cups.

I received a sample to try and I like that there are no artificial flavors or sweeteners and they taste good too! A healthier option for when you are packing school lunches this  year!

Find them at grocery stores near you!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this post. No other compensation was received.

BFree Launches Great-Tasting, Gluten-Free Bread Line in CA

 

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For BFree Foods, it wasn’t enough to create wraps, rolls, bagels and bread loaves that were simply wheat and gluten-free alternatives. Instead the innovative company set out to develop gluten-free breads that taste just as delicious as their conventional counterparts and still have exceptional nutrition. Not to mention ones that won’t disintegrate, crack or crumble mid-meal.
Since using real, whole ingredients is the best way to bake, BFree’s products have an impressive list of high-quality, non-GMO ingredients. Whether it’s deriving protein and fiber from whole peas, apples and potatoes or using a unique blend of buckwheat and corn flours to provide gluten-like pliability, BFree provides matchless taste and nutrition and stays intact. BFree products are not only high fiber and low fat, they’re also calorie-responsible; BFree Multigrain Wraps, for example, are only 100 calories per wrap, the lowest calorie count in the category.
A list of what is not included in BFree products is almost as impressive as what is. BFree products do not contain wheat, dairy, eggs, nuts or soy, making the entire BFree product line free from all major allergens—and completely vegan.
“We’re doing more than just making breads gluten-free,” says Nathan Fisher, VP of sales at BFree Foods. “We’re transcending trends to deliver real health and quality. Because of BFree’s top-notch nutrition, ‘authentic bread’ taste and durability, we truly stand out. BFree products appeal to a broad variety of health-conscious American consumers, including—but certainly not limited to—those with dietary restrictions.”
Select BFree products are rolling out to shelves at Ralphs, Lucky’s, Raley’s and Save Mart throughout California. For more information and to purchase via the company’s website, please visit US.BFreeFoods.com.

I received a variety of samples and what I really love is how fresh this bread is! It’s lowfat but it also tastes great! One of my favorite is the 4 BFree Brown Seeded Rolls! You can check out the website for some really great recipes too!  I tried the Avocado Butter on a bagel..yum! I will be trying the other recipes soon! I was really quite surprised at the taste and highly recommend!

 

BFree Multigrain Wraps Chicken Ceasarsmallle     BFree Multiseed Bagel Hummus Sandwich

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this post. Photo Credit and info provided by BFree Foods.

Carrington Farms Flax Burger Recipe for End of Summer

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Although it is back-to-school time, it it still Summer! That means it is a great time for hamburgers!  This  flax burger recipe by Carrington Farms  is sure to be a hit! I tried it this past Labor Day and I really liked it! 

After eating standard burgers/cheeseburgers all season, this recipe puts a healthy spin on the traditional BBQ favorite, packs a ton of flavor and is rich in omega-3s, omega-6s, fiber, and lignans – serving plenty of nutrients with every bite.

Here’s the recipe:

Prep time: ~15 minutes
Ingredients:

  • 1 pound thawed ground beef, lean ground turkey or bison, veal or your favorite meat
  • 2 Tbs finely chopped onion
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 2 Tbs Carrington Farms Organic Milled flaxseed
  • 2 Tbs water
  • 3/4 cup soft bread crumbs (1 slice of bread)
  • 1 beaten egg
  • 1 Tbs mustard
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 4-6 hamburger buns

Directions

  • Mix together meat, onion, garlic, flax and bread crumbs
  • Lightly beat water and egg together and add to mixture. Add mustard, salt and pepper
  • Cook on a grill or stove top until no pink remains (~12 mins)
  • Optional cheeseburgers: top with slice of your choice of cheese at end of cooking and grill or broil for about 1 min

Makes 4 -3/4 inch thick patties or 6 -1/2 inch thick patties.

They really are quite tasty and I love that they are a healthier option!

Available at retailers including but not limited to Select Whole Foods, Shaw’a, Hy-Vee, local supermarkets, health food stores and online at www.CarringtonFarms.com.

Carrington Farms Organic Milled Flax Seeds
Carrington Farms unique proprietary Milling and Micro-Cleanse process assures only the finest Flax Seeds are thoroughly cleansed by natural means, and then surgically sliced, as opposed to pulverized, resulting in a delicious coarse flax seed grind that retains the maximum amount of healthy nutrients. Flax seeds contain essential fatty acids, Omega 3s, fiber, and lignans which all provide the building blocks to improved cellular health and one’s overall well-being. Packaged in a 14 oz resealable stand up pouch, Carrington Farms’ Organic Milled Flax Seeds presents a palatable subtle nutty flavor. SRP: $5.69, www.CarringtonFarms.com

About Carrington Farms
Carrington Farms is dedicated to providing the absolute highest quality products to the consumer in search of a healthy way of life. With a 14 year history of developing healthy consumer packaged goods in vibrant packaging, Carrington Farms has become recognized by the health conscious consumer as the brand of choice in presenting ‘Healthy foods for a Healthy Soul’. Carrington Farms welcomes the individual focused on quality of life and longevity to a world of innovative health food products featuring exceptional quality and delicious flavors in your quest for a satisfying Healthy Living experience. All Carrington Farms products are certified organic, Star-K Kosher, gluten-free and non-GMO. From the pure whole seed flax to the chia blends and cold-pressed organic extra virgin coconut oil, all of Carrington Farms’ vitamin and mineral-full health food products are a great way to start adding a little more nutrition to your everyday life. For more information, please visit www.carringtonfarms.com.

Self Disclosure: I received a free sample to facilitate this post. Recipe, photo and other info was provided by Carrington Farms. 

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Eye-Popping Oddities

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The book is full of all-new, bizarre, amazing, uncanny stories, facts and feats! Readers will not believe what they’re reading, but each and every story has been verified 100 percent shocking, 100 percent incredible and 100 percent true!

-Meet the Austrian Rock, a man who uses his amazing strength to pull a 156-ton airplane
-Read about a man who built his own iron suit to stand in the middle of a fireworks display
-Get the lowdown on a goldfish that had brain surgery to remove a tumor

This book is definitely a weird one! But, it will be a hit with Teens and Tweens! There are so many gross things like Worm Tacos and a snake massage..eek! But, weird, cool and gross make will all make this a big hit with Tweens and Teens! The illustrations are amazing and it really is hard to believe some of the things in this book! A real eye-opener for sure! Have an older kid who is not crazy about reading? This one for sure will be a hit! My son is at the age where books aren’t quite as cool but he couldn’t put this one down.

The book is perfect for teens, tweens and reluctant readers and makes a great holiday gift.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Eye-Popping Oddities is available through all major booksellers!

Self Disclosure: I received an advanced free copy of this book for review purposes.

Cloris is Pet of the Week!

Cloris, Sept. 10 Pet of the Week

There’s so much to love about Cloris—actually, there’s so much of Cloris, period. This big, gentle 5-year-old weighs 17 pounds, is spayed, and is ready to go home with someone who’ll treat her to a sensible, tasty diet! Meet Cloris on theshelter side of Companion Animal Village at 7700 East Spring St., (562) 570-PETS. Ask for ID#A554098.

(The usual suspects contributed to this rescue)

 

Credit: Companion Animal Village.

NEW Colgate Total Daily Repair Toothpaste

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Colgate introduces a new product to its Colgate Total portfolio- Colgate Total Daily Repair Toothpaste. This new toothpaste contains a multi-active formula that helps repair early teeth and gum damage before you may even know it exists. Colgate Total Daily Repair Toothpaste also helps remineralize weakened enamel to help prevent cavities and strengthen teeth, and help improve gum health by killing bacteria that cause gingivitis.

I received a sample and I love how well  it whitens my teeth and freshens my breath! I really like that helps kill bacteria that cause gingivitis. I noticed a difference in my teeth and gums after using a few weeks. So, I have to say that I am pretty impressed!

Is available at stores near you and retails for the following:

4.0 oz: $2.47-2.97   and 5.8 oz: $3.47-$3.97.

Self Disclosure: I received a sample from Colgate-Palmolive Company for review purposes. Photo and press info also received.

 

www.colgatetotal.com/dailyrepair for additional product information.

Bliss 101 Hosts Earthscape Artist Andres Amador – Sept 25

Bliss 101

Bliss 101, an Encinitas boutique that aims to help people find their bliss through fair trade treasures, is proud to announce that famed beach artist Andres Amador will be showing his artwork at their shop located at 553 S. Coast Hwy 102. The gallery showing and meet and greet with Andres will take place on Friday, September 25 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Andres Amador is known for his breathtaking art that features the low tide beach as canvas and a rake as brush. His earthscape paintings span hundreds of feet and are inspired by the landscape of where he is working. He will be visiting San Diego from September 25 toOctober 1 and will be participating in a number of community activities, with the only gallery showing at Bliss 101.

Bliss 101’s night with Andres Amador will consist of light appetizers, beverages and an opportunity to view gorgeous photography of Amador’s work while speaking to him about his creative process. The event is free and open to the public.

ABOUT ANDRES AMADOR

Andres is a San Francisco-based artist. His artwork can span over 100,000 square feet (~35,000 sqmt), achievable only during low tide. With tight time constraints and big goals, Andres is posed with the question: ‘How does one create from within that which one is creating?’ Exploring this concept of self-creation has brought Andres to investigate natural and human-devised systems of structure and growth. His artworks do not last long- within minutes of finishing a piece, and often while still in progress, the returning tide begins resetting the canvas. Andres has been featured by the BBC, CNN, Discovery Channel, and numerous T.V. programs and periodicals globally. His artwork has appeared on beaches in the US and internationally, with his primary canvas being the Northern California coastline. Website: AndresAmadorArts.com.

Credit: ANDRES AMADOR/ Bliss 101.