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PBS KIDS Announces Adaptive Apparel Collection Available Exclusively at Zappos

April 19, 2018 By Leave a Comment

      

PBS KIDS and Zappos Adaptive are introducing a line of gender-neutral two-way reversible adaptive apparel with kid-friendly designs that promote independence for all children. Manufactured by 4WARD Clothing, the PBS KIDS Adaptive Apparel Collection will soon be available exclusively at Zappos.com.

The PBS KIDS Adaptive Apparel Collection includes t-shirts and lounge pants designed to meet unique sensory needs. Each item includes dissolvable tags, has no buttons and is made with soft, machine washable poly-cotton blend fabric. The entire clothing line can be worn either forward or backward, making it versatile for kids.

“PBS KIDS is committed to diversity and inclusion, helping children of all abilities learn and grow,” said Dawn Ciccone, Vice President of Brand Licensing, PBS KIDS. “This collaboration with Zappos Adaptive is one more way we’re honoring that commitment. The PBS KIDS Adaptive Apparel Collection is purpose-driven to help empower children, encourage independence and promote creative expression.”

Additionally, in support of Autism Awareness Month, PBS KIDS will air and stream episodes of ARTHUR, DINOSAUR TRAIN and SESAME STREET featuring characters with autism on pbskids.org and the PBS KIDS Video app. Related digital games can be found on pbskids.org, hands-on activities on PBS Parents, and educational resources on PBS LearningMedia.

As the exclusive home of 4Ward Clothing, Zappos Adaptive promotes inclusion by providing functional and fashionable clothing and shoes to help make getting dressed easier. 4Ward Clothing represents the important underlying concept of providing a garment that fosters independence and inclusion for those who need it most so they can move forward in life.

“We’re so excited to collaborate with PBS KIDS and 4ward Clothing on this collection because it brings something fresh and fun to our assortment of super soft, reversible clothing. Zappos Adaptive is focused on curating a wide selection of products that make our customers’ lives easier, and this definitely helps us fulfill that purpose,” said Derek Flores, Senior Buyer at Zappos.com.

With fun and bright colors using PBS KIDS-branded graphics, the PBS KIDS Adaptive Apparel Collection includes four design themes: dinosaurs, rainforests, oceans and air travel. Offered in child sizes 18m-6x, the clothing line is available at an affordable price, ranging from $26-$32 SRP. One hundred percent of the net proceeds PBS receives from purchases of the PBS KIDS Adaptive Apparel Collection will support PBS KIDS’ mission to empower children to succeed in school and in life.

The PBS KIDS Adaptive Apparel Collection will soon be available at http://www.zappos.com/e/adaptive-pbskids

 Credit:

About PBS KIDS
PBS KIDS, the number one educational media brand for kids, offers children ages 2-8 the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television, digital media and community-based programs. PBS KIDS and local stations across the country support the entire ecosystem in which children learn, including their teachers, parents and community. Provided by stations, the free PBS KIDS 24/7 channel and live stream is available to nearly 95% of U.S. TV households. Kidscreen- and Webby Award-winning pbskids.org provides engaging interactive content, including digital games and streaming video.

PBS KIDS offers mobile apps to help support young children’s learning, including the PBS KIDS Video app, which is available on a variety of mobile devices and on platforms such as Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV and Chromecast. PBS KIDS also offers parent and teacher resources to support children’s learning anytime and anywhere. For more information on PBS KIDS content and initiatives supporting school readiness and more, visit pbs.org/pressroom, or follow PBS KIDS on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

 

About Zappos.com
Established in 1999, Zappos.com has quickly become the leading destination in online apparel and footwear sales by striving to provide shoppers with the best possible service and selection. Zappos currently showcases millions of products from over 1,000 clothing and shoe brands. Zappos is also proud to be rated ELITE by STELLAService and was named a J.D. Power 2011 Customer Service Champion, one of only 40 companies so named in the U.S. More information about the customer service philosophy, unique culture and job openings can be found at www.zappos.com/about/press-kit. More information about Zappos Insights and its business membership program can be found at zapposinsights.com. Zappos.com, Inc. is a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc.

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week

Blumhouse’s Truth Or Dare – Jump-Scares, Second Guessing – Fun To Watch With Friends

April 18, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Olivia, Lucas and a group of their college friends travel to Mexico for one last getaway before graduation. While there, a stranger convinces one of the students to play a seemingly harmless game of truth or dare with the others. Once the game starts, it awakens something evil — a demon which forces the friends to share dark secrets and confront their deepest fears. The rules are simple but wicked — tell the truth or die, do the dare or die, and if you stop playing, you die. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Imani B.G. comments, “I am a huge fan of horror and thriller films and was so excited to see the amazing acting and suspense behind this work. This film offers jump-scares, second guessing and is loads of fun to watch with friends.” Arjun N. adds, “Blumhouse’s Truth or Dare is a somewhat disappointing thriller with lots of initial potential… Fans of thrillers and horror movies may want to check it out but proceed with caution.” See their full reviews below.

Blumhouse’s Truth or Dare

By Imani B. G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 16

Truth or Dare is a new thriller that has the audience questioning their real abilities and intentions behind the fun-filled game. I am a huge fan of horror and thriller films and was so excited to see the amazing acting and suspense behind this work. This film offers jump-scares, second-guessing and is loads of fun to watch with friends.

Olivia (Lucy Hale) and a couple of her college friends take a trip to Mexico for a final getaway before graduation. Little did they know it would turn into something more. While there, they meet a stranger who convinces Olivia to play a harmless, fun game of “truth or dare” with the others. The game starts and so does chaos which follows the group back to their hometown, releasing all their deepest and darkest secrets. The rules are quite simple, but fearful: tell the truth or die; do the dare, or die. No one gets out alive if you don’t play by the rules. Or do they?

Growing up, my friends and I always played the game “truth or dare” at sleepovers. This movie made me question what secrets are we all hide in this game? If the consequences were real, such as they are in this film, how would we react? My favorite part of this film is how I was able to somewhat relate to the characters. They are all teens, as am I. So, it really had me feeling as if I was in their shoes and made me question what I have done in order to survive. I adore the cast, because each one has something to offer to the character they play.

The message in this film is about being honest with your friends and family and to trust one another in any circumstance. Olivia and her friends are torn apart towards the beginning of the film, due to their belief about whether or not the game was real. Once their eyes are opened, they work together in hopes of beating the game and surviving.

I rate this film 4 out of 5 stars. It has a great storyline, cast and cinematography. I it for ages 13 to 18. I recommend seeing it with a group of friends to really get the full effect. Also, it would be more fun! It opens nationwide in theaters on April 13, 2018 so, be sure to check it out. Think about this film the next time you play “truth or dare” with your friends!

Blumhouse’s Truth Or Dare

By Arjun N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Blumhouse’s Truth or Dare is a somewhat disappointing thriller with lots of initial potential. However, the acting and direction allow for some fun thrills. Fans of thrillers and horror movies may want to check it out but proceed with caution.

The story follows teenage friends Olivia (Lucy Hale), Lucas (Tyler Posey), Markie (Violett Beane), Penelope (Sophia Ali), Tyson (Nolan Gerard Funk), Ronnie (Sam Lernie) and Brad (Hayden Szeto) on a trip to Mexico. Along the way, they encounter Carter (Landon Liboiron), an amicable person with a dark secret, playing a game of “truth or dare”. This quickly takes a turn for the worst, once the game summons a curse among the friends. Upon returning home, the curse sequesters the friends, forcing them to play a deadly game of “truth or dare” – one which will result in death if lost. Realizing they are all being forced to play the same game, the friends try to find a way to remove the curse.

Lucy Hale, as Olivia, delivers a commanding performance as the main lead, willing to go to any lengths to stop the curse. She excels in presenting her unstable relationship with her best friend Markie. Tyler Posey, as Lucas, is extremely determined to save his friends using logic to outthink the curse. Violett Beane, as Markie, is excellent with what she is given, but her character could have been more aptly written. She denigrates a repetitive plot point used to propel her inconclusive relationship with Olivia. Sophia Ali, as Penelope, wonderfully presents her character’s nonchalant attitude to circumstances, until it’s her turn to play the game. Nolan Gerard Funk, as Tyson, prominently portrays a smart yet misguided teen. Sam Lernie, as Ronnie, is the most careless of the group. Hayden Szeto, as Brad, is my favorite character due to his clever comic relief. Landon Liboiron, as Carter, mysteriously presents his character’s involvement in the story.

Jeff Wadlow directs the movie with some fun thrills, but also many that are predictable. My favorite scene is Olivia’s first dare for Markie to break her hand. It is well-acted with a visceral intensity. The flaws in the movie are in its inconsistent writing, which completely steal all the potential we see initially. Most of the characters end up in situations that are unintentionally funny. The characters are written to be hate-able and bipolar for the sake of the movie’s plot. The conclusion ends up feeling rushed and used as bait for a sequel.

The message of this film is to always be careful of strangers and unknown places. I give this film 2.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18 because of the horror, sexual references and language. The movie releases in theaters on April 13, 2018, so check it out.

Credit: KIDS FIRST!

 

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Don’t Miss Out: The Habit Burger Grill CharClub Members Get Rewarded With Sneak Peek of New Mission Viejo Restaurant

April 18, 2018 By Leave a Comment

 Burger fans shouldn’t fear missing out on special events at the New Habit Burger Grill opening in Mission Viejo, located at 27748 Crown Valley Parkway. It’s easy to be in the know – join The Habit’s CharClub! Members of The Habit Burger’s CharClub will be treated to exclusive food specials before the restaurant opens on April 25.

Local CharClub members will receive an exclusive invitation to enjoy a pre-opening event before the store’s grand opening, including:

  • Free Burger Day: The first 200 guests in line will receive a free award-winning Charburger, fries and a drink.

To join the CharClub, guests can visit http://www.habitburger.com/missionviejo to sign up and receive an invitation. The more than 2,500-square-foot Habit restaurant seats 64 people, plus additional patio seating for 32 guests. The restaurant will be open every day, 10:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

As part of The Habit Burger Grill’s commitment to the community, all are welcome to join in three fundraising events before the grand opening.  At each event, 100% of the proceeds raised will be donated back to the cause or organization.

  • Sunday, April 22, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. – Capistrano Valley High School
  • Sunday, April 22, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. – Mission Viejo High School
  • Tuesday, April 24, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. – Open Medicine Foundation

Supporting the Open Medicine Foundation is an important step in improving care for the more than 2.5 million patients who suffer from debilitating complex diseases like chronic fatigue syndrome. The Open Medicine Foundation funds vital research to find treatments to help people live fuller lives as they battle through pain and other unbearable symptoms.

High school clubs and organizations encourage student participation in community building and social activities at high schools, and the funds raised for Capistrano Valley and Mission Viejo High Schools will be used for a variety of upcoming campus functions.

Better burgers are just the beginning at The Habit where the menu also includes hand-cut salads, grilled sandwiches including line-caught, sushi grade ahi tuna, fresh chicken, and hand-filleted marinated grilled tri-tip, and sides including onion rings, sweet potato and French fries, and tempura green beans. Guests can choose from a variety of peppers, lemons, limes, and sauces at a complimentary condiment bar to customize the flavor of their meal.

The Habit is known for its award-winning Charburger which features 100% fresh, never frozen ground beef grilled over an open flame and topped with melted cheese, caramelized onions, pickles, fresh tomato, crisp lettuce, and mayo served on a toasted bun. Their restaurants have been serving the Best Tasting Burger in America exactly this way since the first Habit opened in 1969.

Connect with The Habit on social media at facebook.com/habitburger, instagram.com/habitburgergrill, twitter.com/habitburger  and youtube.com/habittube.

 Credit: The Habit Burger Grill.

About The Habit Restaurants, Inc. 

The Habit Burger Grill is a burger-centric, fast casual restaurant concept that specializes in preparing fresh, made-to-order chargrilled burgers and sandwiches featuring USDA choice tri-tip steak, grilled chicken and sushi-grade tuna cooked over an open flame. In addition, it features fresh made-to-order salads and an appealing selection of sides, shakes and malts. The Habit was named the “best tasting burger in America” in July 2014 in a comprehensive survey conducted by one of America’s leading consumer magazines. The first Habit opened in Santa Barbara, California in 1969. The Habit has since grown to over 220 restaurants in 11 states throughout California, Arizona, Utah, New Jersey, Florida, Idaho, Virginia, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Washington and Maryland as well as three international locations. More information is available at www.habitburger.com.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Comcast Cares Day on Saturday, April 21 @8:00 A.M – 11:00 A.M

April 18, 2018 By Leave a Comment

More than 350 employee NBCUniversal employee volunteers, friends and family as well as a community partner join together to make change happen in honor of Earth Day. The effort is part of the company’s 17th annual Comcast Cares Day, a global initiative designed to make change happen and spotlight the company’s year-round commitment to volunteerism. 

 

In partnership with Friends of the Los Angeles River, volunteers will roll up their sleeves to help restore the Los Angeles River near the Bette Davis Picnic area to its natural habitat and ecosystem by removing trash and debris.

 

This effort coincides with other Comcast Cares Day volunteer activities that have taken place within the community throughout the year. From mentoring youth to helping the homeless, employee volunteers have aided the American Red Cross, the Los Angeles LGBT Youth Center, the 32nd Street / USC Arts Magnet School; and Meet Each Need with Dignity transitional living center (M.E.N.D.), to name a few. The global goal targets 100,000 employees to participate in approximately 1,000 volunteer projects. This year, Comcast Cares Day celebrates a significant milestone with 1 million volunteers contributing to 8,800+ community projects worldwide since its inception in 2001.

 

Comcast Cares Day is a project of the Comcast Foundation, which provides grants to local community partner organizations across the country.  To date, more than $22 million in grants have been awarded to local nonprofit partner organizations.

 

For more information on Comcast NBCUniversal volunteer and community investment initiatives, visit www.Comcast.com/community. 

Credit: Comcast Foundation.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

Whole Foods Market will sell four of Humphry Slocombe’s most popular flavors

April 18, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Southern California is about to get sweeter! Humphry Slocombe,the rebellious ice cream brand synonymous with unique, ultra-premium flavors is now available at all Whole Foods Markets in Southern California.

Whole Foods Market will sell four of Humphry Slocombe’s most popular flavors. Whole Foods exclusive Hong Kong Milk Tea, Blue Bottle Vietnamese Coffee, Honey Graham, and Peanut Butter Fudge Ripple. Hong Kong Milk Tea is the brainchild of Humphry Slocombe’s chef Jake Godby and Top Chef alum and Whole Foods Chef Ambassador Melissa King.

I had the opportunity to try out a flavor and I love the Honey Graham flavor! It is simply delicious!

     

Website www.humphryslocombe.com

Find Humphry Slocombe near you: http://www.humphryslocombe.com/find-us/

Self Disclosure: I received a free sample to facilitate this post. Photos: SoCal City Kids. 

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week

The 44th Annual Green Scene Garden Expo Returns to the Fullerton Arboretum

April 17, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Annual Celebration of Gardens and Gardening. Green Scene to Feature Plants, Art and Activities for All Ages.

The 44th Annual Green Scene & Garden Expo, the largest outdoor garden expo in Southern California, will take place April 21 and 22, 2018, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Fullerton Arboretum.

In addition to providing a wide assortment of plant and gardening accessories for garden lovers to purchase, the Expo will offer fun gardening activities for the entire family.  Plein air painting demonstrations will take place on Sunday throughout the garden, while the Children’s Garden will feature exciting activities for kids of all ages, including a live Reptile Interaction, face painting, scavenger hunts and more. Attendees can enjoy a variety of food and cold drinks while listening to one of the many educational garden talks, or simply stroll around the property and enjoy the beautiful blooming California Native Meadow.

The Fullerton Arboretum is located at 1900 Associated Road, Fullerton, Calif., on the campus of California State University Fullerton.  Admission to Green Scene & Garden Expo will be $8 per person, children under 12 receive free admission, but Friends of the Fullerton Arboretum receive free and early entry to Expo. Fullerton Arboretum members, known as Friends of the Fullerton Arboretum, will have access to an exclusive “FRIENDS Deck” overlooking the garden, giving them an oasis in which to relax and indulge in light refreshments during the garden-packed day of activities.

About Friends of the Fullerton Arboretum

Membership with the Friends of the Fullerton Arboretum provides members with exclusive benefits, discounts and free admission to over 250 public gardens across the country and offers them various opportunities to stay proactive in the garden. Individual Memberships start at only $49 per year. For only $125 per year, Arboretum partners receive premiere benefits including a North American Reciprocal Museum Membership (NARM) which entitles the member to free admission to over 950 museums across the nation.

New members can use the code: “FRIENDS” at checkout or at the Expo to receive an additional 6-months on their Friends membership. This exclusive offer is valid until April 22, 2018.

For more information about the Fullerton Arboretum or the Green Scene & Garden Expo, please visit www.fullertonarboretum.org.

Credit: The Fullerton Arboretum.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

Mangiacotti will be featured on The View’s Feel Good Friday viewyourdeal.com segment this Friday April 20, 2018

April 17, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Mangiacotti and their line of home, personal care, bath, body products and soy candles made with essential oils and plant based ingredients will be featured on The View’s Feel Good Friday viewyourdeal.com segment this Friday April 20, 2018.  And the dollar savings are just a part of why viewers will be Feeling The Good!   Mangiacotti was founded with really, really good intentions and products that are all made in America, never tested on animals and hand finished by citizens with disabilities. 

 

CEO Michele Mangiacotti has made it her mission to be an “agent of change”, by not only employing adults with disabilities, but in taking inspiration for all of Mangiacotti’s 2018 product packaging design directly from artwork created by disabled adults.  Mangiacotti funds an independent art program ensuring independence, empowerment, and inclusion of all in all aspects of society.  The brand is also involved in community outreach programs, food banks and direct to the people services in Massachusetts where their corporate offices are based.  Mangiacotti recently launched their See The Good Project and social media hashtag #seethegoodproject with a goal to coordinate worldwide community service events, fundraisers, goods deeds and inspiring events through social conversation on social media.

 

Visit www.mangiacotti.com to view the full Collection!

Credit: Mangiacotti.

Filed Under: Beauty and Fashion, Beauty and Fashion Corner

Blacky, April 19th, 2018 Pet of the Week!

April 17, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Little Blacky came in to the shelter a year ago and was adopted with his brother. However, Blacky managed to get out, and when the owner was found, he told the shelter staff that he’d be better off as a one-dog person. Which doesn’t help Blacky at all. He needs someone who’ll pay him attention, play with him, and never let him down. He’s only 5, so he has a lot of good years ahead with the right family. Meet Blacky on the shelter side of the P. D. Pitchford Companion Animal Village, 7700 East Spring St., (562) 570-PETS. Ask for ID#A602595.

(The usual suspects contributed to this rescue)

Credit: Courtesy of the P.D. Pitchford Companion Animal Village. 

Filed Under: Pet Corner
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