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Dino Dan: Trek’s Adventures: The Complete Series – Lots of Excitement, Adventures and Learning

June 12, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Dino Dan: Trek’s Adventures: The Complete Series is a series for young kids with a lot of excitement, and fun adventures to go on! Kids will love this series if they have a big imagination and of course, have a love of dinosaurs.

On this DVD, there are 50 dino-filled adventures with the dinosaur expert, Trek Henderson. Trek imagines different types of dinosaurs in the real world throughout all of his experiences! While Trek’s brother, Dan is away helping his dad with something, Trek takes over and entertains himself with his dinosaur world. The goal is to finish up some of the experiments that Dan has started. Trek even meets some new dinosaurs and marine reptiles that he hasn’t seen before! Join Trek on his wonderful adventures throughout the world of dinosaurs!

One reason I really like this show is how they incorporate educational lessons into it. It’s not everyday that you see a kids TV show that includes all kinds of educational facts within the story line. This is exactly what this series does. For example, in the episode “Trek Rex,” Trek is having trouble figuring out what dinosaur he wants to dress up as for a party. Throughout the episode, he has various encounters with several dinosaurs to help him make his final decision. Trek and the dinosaurs’ encounters happen in the real world, in front of real people, so he is imagining it. I believe that creates a connection between Trek and kids in the real world, since many have big imaginations.

The overall message in this series is that it’s okay to have an imagination and even share it with others! Trek has no problem sharing his findings out loud for everyone to see and has no shame about doing that. This is what kids should feel. And, sharing their findings throughout their childhood is a cool thing to do.

I rate this show 4 out of 5 stars for its playful storyline, exciting cast, imagination and much more. I would love to see the storyline develop more, but it’s perfect for younger kids. I recommend it for ages 5 through 10. This is available on DVD now, so check it out.

Dino Dan Trek’s Adventure: The Complete Series
By Abraham Finer, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic age 13

https://youtu.be/VTOwqpyHTUE

This series is great for keeping younglings entertained over the summer. With over 500 minutes in its 50 episodes, this will keep them busy and will keep them interested. I found Trek talking to an imaginary dinosaur somewhat strange but hey, it doesn’t seem to bother his mom.

The storyline is about when Trek’s brother who goes away to dig up fossils and Trek misses him. Then, one day a package arrives in the mail with a message from Dan asking Trek to help him do some dinosaur experiments. In later episodes, he gets better and better at conducting these experiments. One of his tasks is to find out if albertosaurus hunt in packs. For this, he gets a ham sandwich and gets the albertosaurus to chase him.

Trek is played by Trek Buccino who lives in Toronto, Ontario and attended Claude Watson School for the Arts. He has also been in Pacific Rim and PJ Masks. Trek’s mom is played by Allana Harkin who has been nominated for the Primetime Emmy award for Full Frontal which she produced.

What I like about the show is that it is enjoyable to watch while you learn some facts along the way. I recommend it for ages 3 to 8 and give it 3 out of 5 stars. It is available now on Digital and DVD/Blu-ray so, check it out.

Credit: KIDS FIRST!

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Tips to Take Care of Yourself When Pregnant With a Tot

June 8, 2018 By Leave a Comment

So you are pregnant now. Stay Cool! All you need to do during your pregnancy is to stay cool and happy to have a safe and healthy pregnancy. Pregnancy is not an easy period for any woman, especially for those who already have a tiny tot around. As a matter of fact, pregnancies with a second child and beyond are quite more challenging than the first pregnancy, because first pregnancy gives the pregnant woman the full freedom to take personal care and rest. On the other hand, being pregnant with the second child or beyond calls to care for the tot, before the self! This post intends to give few tips for women pregnant with a tot.

Prioritising

Taking care of the child and taking care of pregnant self, both would be placed in the first position as both needs equal importance. You have to plan your day with equal concentration and importance for both you and your child inside and out. If you have a tot who sleeps in the day, feel yourself blessed, as it is also your strict napping time, no matter what work you have. Whenever the child sleeps or gives you a free time (being attended by someone else), take rest, leaving all the household chores apart. The baby inside you needs rest, so just for it! Read websites such as pregmed.org for more detailed information on pregnancy care.

Nourishment

Healthy nourishment is the basis of any healthy pregnancy, first, second or whatever. Plan balanced diet for your tot and yourself with food groups that are rich in calcium, vitamins, minerals and mainly folic acid for the pregnant women. Training your tot to eat individually, at least finger foods right at this stage is a very important step for your post-pregnancy.

Be Prepared!

Be prepared mentally and physically to be exhausted all day long, while not losing your temper or relaxation. Sounds weird? Yes, it might, but it is a very important tip for taking care of the child and also being pregnant with the other. The first tot will demand your attention all day long, especially if you don’t have a full-time help around. Either get someone to take care of the tot along with you or getting yourself prepared to be relaxed and handle tot tantrums with patience. Spend some time on TV or park where your tot can be engaged independently, leaving few free moments for you to relax.

Bonding Between The Two

Unless your official work demands, just stay yourself away from other distractions, so the child around you and inside you will feel the goodness of your motherhood, undisturbed. Train your tot to start expecting for the little one so that you can care for the child inside, and your tiny little tot will also learn to care for his or her sibling, without having the sense of attention deprivation.

Conclusion

Bid bye to gadgets and spend lovely time with your tot and introduce the child inside to your tot and make a bond of friendship between the two even before they get to meet each other.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

Star Wars Day Returns to the OC Zoo June 16th

June 7, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Join the County of Orange and OC Parks for Star Wars Day at the OC Zoo on Saturday, June 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and may the force be with you! Gather family and friends for a day of animals and activities at the OC Zoo.

Star Wars Day at the OC Zoo invites Stars Wars fans of all ages to celebrate a galaxy far, far away with a fun-filled day of activities including visits from Star Wars characters, kids’ crafts, games, and photo opportunities. Zoo animals will receive special treats and there will be animal meet and greets throughout the day.

“Generations of Star Wars fans can visit another galaxy at the OC Zoo during Star Wars Day,” Orange County Supervisor Todd Spitzer, Third District, said. “This is a wonderful opportunity for the community to enjoy their favorite characters while spending time with the animals of the OC Zoo.”

Visitors of all ages are encouraged to come dressed in Star Wars costumes and attire, and the first 100 children (ages 12 & under) wearing a Star Wars costume will receive a special gift and free train ticket to ride the Irvine Park Railroad.

Activities are free with the purchase of a paid zoo ticket of $2 per person (ages 2 and under are free). Please note that zoo coupons/passes are not valid for this event. Reservations for Star Wars Day are not required and parking is $5 per vehicle.

Star Wars Day at the OC Zoo

Date: Saturday, June 16

Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Location: OC Zoo

Address: 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA 92869

Public Contact: OCParks.com/oczoo or 714-973-6847

Credit: OC Parks/OC ZOO.

Filed Under: Featured Events

First-Ever Summer Music Series Debuts at Del Amo Fashion Center

June 7, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Del Amo Fashion Center invites the community to enjoy four concerts of mixed genres for the inaugural Summer Music Series at Torrance’s leading shopping and lifestyle destination.

The Summer Music Series showcases the new Village Park lawn area, just outside AMC Theaters, with a variety of musical genres on the second Saturday of the month in June, July, August and September from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The Summer Music Series collection of performances is fine tuned to feature a diverse music styles by local artists from Greater Los Angeles. Guests will enjoy sounds from incredible artists such as Natalie Clark, selected as a Mercedes Benz KTLA “Artist to Watch,” also seen on the most recent season of the Voice. Other artists bring alternative, singer-songwriter and pop music to the Summer Music Series.

“Music is a meaningful way to form connections, and we love that the Summer Music Series encourages our community to linger and enjoy unique experiences with us,” said Del Amo Fashion Center Director of Marketing and Business Development Chris Yates. “Grab your friends and family, bring a blanket and pick-up some food from our selection of top-notch eateries for an afternoon of sunshine and music.”

The complete list of artists and performances includes:

  • Saturday, June 9 – Professional Folk
  • Saturday, July 14 – Natalie Clark
  • Saturday, August 11 – Michael Physick & Band
  • Saturday, September 8 – Lisa Ritchie

Del Amo Fashion Center embodies the upscale and outdoor lifestyle of the Torrance community with amenities and events such as the Summer Music Series, making it a leading lifestyle destination. Enjoy leisure time in the new and beautiful Village Park at Del Amo Fashion Center with a pristine lawn and gorgeous garden landscaping.

Credit:

About Del Amo Fashion Center

Embrace the coastal chic lifestyle at Del Amo Fashion Center, the South Bay’s premier retail destination. Accented by an abundance of natural lighting, exquisite architecture, living green walls, gorgeous palm trees and a new Fashion Wing, Del Amo Fashion Center is a favorite in Southern California. Visit more than 200 stores including South Bay exclusives such as Brooks Brothers, Kate Spade New York, HUGO BOSS, Hanna Andersson and Z Gallerie. The center’s department stores include Nordstrom, Macy’s, Macy’s Men & Home, JCPenney and Sears. Experience the charm of the Outdoor Village with an array of retail and dining options. Other featured retailers include Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, Arhaus, Brio Coastal Bar, Kiehl’s Since 1851, Lululemon Athletica, Sephora, UNIQLO, Zara, and more. For more information, visit www.simon.com/mall/del-amo-fashion-center.

 

About Simon

Simon is a global leader in retail real estate ownership, management and development and a S&P100 company (Simon Property Group, NYSE:SPG). Our industry-leading retail properties and investments across North America, Europe and Asia provide shopping experiences for millions of consumers every day and generate billions in annual retail sales. For more information, visit simon.com.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

Miguel’s Restaurants Kicks Off 45th Anniversary Celebrations at Citrus Splash Zone on June 7th

June 7, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Commissioned by and licensed to Miguel’s.

 Miguel’s and Miguel’s Jr. Restaurants invite the community to celebrate the brand’s 45th anniversary on Thursday, June 7 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m at Corona’s Citrus Splash Zone. The Splash Zone was made possible thanks to a generous donation by Miguel’s Restaurant owners Mike and Mary Vasquez in 2008. During the June 7 celebration, the Vasquez family will unveil recent renovations to the destination and present a rededication to the City of Corona.

“In celebrating this anniversary, we’ve embraced opportunities to revitalize our brand,” said Miguel’s CEO, Javier Vasquez, “It’s been a year for growth and improvement with, launching a new food truck, renovating our flagship restaurant, and now, re-dedicating the upgraded Splash Zone to the city we call home.”

The first 300 guests to arrive at Citrus Splash Zone on Thursday, June 7 will receive a complimentary famous Miguel’s Jr. BRC (beans, rice and cheese) burrito from the new Miguel’s Jr. food truck. The celebration event will include complimentary giveaways, raffle drawings,  and a special presentation from the City of Corona’s Chamber of Commerce.

The iconic Mexican Restaurant group includes three full-service restaurants in Corona, and 18 Miguel’s Jr. locations throughout the Inland Empire and Orange County. The company plans to announce  two more Miguel’s Jr. locations that are slated to open by the end of 2018.

Miguel’s California Mexican Cocina & Cantina and Miguel’s Jr. continues the family tradition of homestyle Mexican dishes made using only the freshest and best tasting ingredients including fresh Haas avocados, all natural and hormone free poultry, pasture raised, corn fed beef, 100% stone ground tortillas and tortilla chips, as well as their famous fresh-made daily hot sauce.

EVENT DETAILS
When:

Thursday, June 7, 2018

11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

*First 300 guests will receive complimentary BRC burrito, or while supplies last.

 Where:
Corona Splash Zone – Citrus Park

1250 Santana Way,

Corona, CA 92881

Credit:

ABOUT MIGUEL’S RESTAURANTS

Founded in Corona, California in 1975 by Mike and Mary Vasquez, Miguel’s offers superb-quality family recipes using premium ingredients, inspired by the cuisine of Central Mexico. Miguel’s Restaurants are committed to spreading their unparalleled standard for customer service and reputation for delivering the freshest, best tasting California Mexican food daily.  For more information, including menu items and locations, visit miguelsrestaurant.com

Facebook: facebook.com/MiguelsRestaurant

Instagram: @Miguels_Restaurant

Twitter: @MiguelsRest

 

ABOUT MIGUEL’S JR.

Founded in Corona, California in 1975 by Mike and Mary Vasquez, Miguel’s Jr continues to offer superb-quality family recipes in a fast-food environment using premium ingredients, inspired by the cuisine of Central Mexico. With 18 locations in the Inland Empire and Orange County, Miguel’s Jr is expanding to key markets in Southern California, spreading their unparalleled standard for customer service and reputation for delivering the freshest, best tasting California Mexican food daily.  For more information, including menu items and locations, visit www.miguelsjr.com.

Facebook: facebook.com/MiguelsJr

Instagram: @Miguels_Jr

Twitter: @WeAreMiguelsJr

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

Perfect for Father’s Day! New Album from Like Father Like Son – “Sun is a Star”

June 7, 2018 By Leave a Comment

In Time for Father’s Day!
SUN IS A STAR

the Debut Album Release from
LIKE FATHER LIKE SON
Real-Life Father & Son 
Lou Gallo (Lou Gallo & The Very Hungry Band)
& Frank Gallo (Rolie Polie Guacamole)
plus Grammy winner Dean Jones
w/special guests Grammy nominee Brady Rymer & Katie Ha Ha Ha
Celebrating this Father’s Day with a father-and-son musical bonanza, Frank Gallo, of Brooklyn’s award-winning titans of kindie music, Rolie Polie Guacamole, and his dad, veteran children’s musician Lou Gallo of Lou Gallo & The Very Hungry Band, have teamed with GRAMMY-winning producer/performer Dean Jones of Dog on Fleas to create a bona fide kindie super-group: Like Father Like Son. Mix in splendid contributions from GRAMMY nominee Brady Rymer and Katie Ha Ha Ha, and you have Sun is a Star, a stellar album for families that’s set for release on June 8, 2018.

Frank Gallo explains, “My dad and I are a father-and-son team who have each had a lot of experience in kindie music. In fact, Sun is a Staris the 7th family album for both of us. Adding Dean Jones to the mix actually bridges the generations. In our band, Like Father Like Son, we have Baby Boomer Lou Gallo, Generation X-er Dean Jones, and Millennial Frank Gallo!”

After years of talking about the possibility of working together on an album, in 2017 Frank persuaded his dad, Lou Gallo, that the time was right, proposing that each of them contribute five or six songs. Together they decided to take Dean Jones up on his invitation to record at Dean’s storied No Parking Studio in Rosendale, NY. Having worked with Dean quite a bit through the years, Frank knew this was an offer he could not refuse, for Dean’s production artistry came with the added bonus of his superb performing skills (bass, drums, marimba, guitar, trombone, vocals). Indeed, all indications were that the stars were in the right confluence for a solid record.

As one would expect, Sun is a Star includes several tracks that feature songs with a father-and-son theme.  Some are of a general nature (“Like My Dad,” “Like Father Like Son”) while others explore the Gallo family musical scrapbook, like “She’s a Dog,” which was father Lou’s very first collaboration with two-year-old Frank. Lou wrote “Tennis Racket Song” when he was right out of high school.  As one of the earliest of Lou’s songs that Frank remembers hearing, he encouraged his dad to include it in the Sun is a Star lineup.

Sun is a Star kicks off with the irrepressible, rhythmic energy of the album’s title track and moves right into “Halloween Night,” featuring a spooky use of the theremin throughout the song. The calypso-style “Day-O,” always popular at Rolie Polie Guacamole sing-alongs, is perfect for kids-and-family line dancing. The whimsical dance number “Shake Shake Shake” contrasts hilariously with the ultra-frenetic “Shake Your Shaker.”

Other highlights include the action song, “Sharks and Dinosaurs,” with its ear-catching percussion sounds, and a splendid cover of “Handle with Care,” written by George Harrison for the legendary Traveling Wilburys, in which Frank Gallo faithfully recreates Harrison’s signature solo guitar style.

Sun is a Star will be available at CDBaby, iTunes, Bandcamp, Spotify, and Amazon. Pre-orders may be placed now.

Self Disclosure: I received a free copy to facilitate this post. Images and Information were also provided. 
Filed Under: Media Reviews

Maya The Bee 2: The Honey Games

June 6, 2018 By Leave a Comment

After a slow harvest season, the very survival of the hive is threatened. Maya, and her sidekick, Willy, go to Buzztropolis, where the Empress invites them to participate in the Honey Games. But if they lose, the hive will have to give the Empress all of their summer honey! Needless to say, Maya and Willy’s teammates are neither enthusiastic nor athletic, but Maya remains positive and exclaims that “every bug has a talent!” Can Maya and Team Poppy win and secure her hive’s future? Only if Maya is able to gain new friends and learn about teamwork, responsibility, and overcoming their differences! Bonus features: The Making of Maya the Bee 2; Original teaser and trailers. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Jolleen M. comments, “I really enjoyed watching this! This animated film has many underlying messages without becoming confusing.” Raquel Y. adds, “This is definitely a charming DVD for the younger set. My favorite part about this engaging film is the colorful, expressive animation. The voice actors certainly give their all to their whimsical and distinctive roles. Adult juror Tina B. wraps it up with, “The visual appeal of this DVD is appropriate and interesting enough for the youth it was designed for. The DVD is animated and colorful and lively in action to keep the interests of the intended audiences.” See their full reviews below.

Maya The Bee 2: The Honey Games

By Jolleen Mejia, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I really enjoyed watching this! This animated film has many underlying messages without becoming confusing. Each of the characters have their own strong personalities which makes their interactions interesting. The plotline is intriguing also.

The main character, Maya is a bee who dreams of competing in The Honey Games. One day she has a chance to make her dream comes true, but it will put her entire city at risk. The Empress demands Maya’s city to give up half of their honey to contribute to The Honey Games. They aren’t allowed to participate, but are forced to give up their honey. Maya believes that this is outrageous and challenges the Empress. If Maya wins, she doesn’t have to give up any honey. But if she loses, they have to give up all of their honey and her city will starve.

Maya (Coco Jack Gillies) is a well developed character. Coco Jack Gillies makes her voice distinctly sound differently which is good for Maya who goes through a lot of emotions. Gillies can sound distressed, guilty, ecstatic and hopeful.

The animation is done really well. The quality is great and all of the little details contribute to make it seem very realistic. The music also is very suitable for the film and sets the mood in the various scenes.

My favorite part is when Maya’s best friend Willy realizes that Violet, a bee who is a bully, is trying to sabotage them. Willy has a slight crush on Violet, which blinds him of all the mean things she is doing to Maya. Finally Willy realizes what is happening and stands up for Maya. Even through all these hardships, Maya and Willy find it in their hearts to forgive Violet for everything that she has done. That is one of the messages in this film.

Other messages address how everyone has their own special talent, how you should believe in yourself and that no matter how small you are, you can still make a difference. These messages are really important and give kids a lot of self confidence. I love how they incorporate all of these wonderful messages into the story without making the film trivial.

I give this DVD 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 3 to 10. This DVD is available now so, be sure to check it out.

Maya the Bee 2: The Honey Games

By Raquel Y., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

This is definitely a charming DVD for the younger set. My favorite part about this engaging film is the colorful, expressive animation. The voice actors certainly give their all to their whimsical and distinctive roles. Bugs and bees are endowed with wonderfully human traits which make this a charming film for families.

Maya (Coco Jack Gilles) is brave, determined and smart. She wants to help all the inhabitants of Poppy Meadow. The bee kingdom’s most royal leader, Empress of the Bees (Marney McQueen) has ordered the bees of Poppy Meadow to “contribute” half their summer honey harvest to her hive in Buzztropolis.

Maya The Bee 2: The Honey Games is the follow-up to the television series Maya the Bee and one previous film called, Maya the Bee Movie. Young Maya is the heroine, supported by her best friend Willy. She is optimistic, brave and loves helping others. Each of Maya’s adventures results in the little bee learning important life lessons and sharing those lessons with others.

It is filled with positive messages, beautifully incorporated into the storyline. Maya isn’t always the best team player, but she takes responsibility for her mistakes. The many featured characters shine as they learn something about their own uniqueness, about self-confidence and trying new things. Honesty counts most of all. Even Violet, the potential bully, and the arrogant and smug Empress are touched by Maya’s contagiously optimistic spirit, love of freedom and passion for fairness. Young viewers who are comfortable with mild cartoon action and suspense will enjoy this. This is a cannot miss film that kids everywhere and anywhere will enjoy.

I give this DVD 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. You can catch this film on DVD and Blu-Ray now so, look for it.

Maya the Bee 2, The Honey Games

By Tina Bunche, KIDS FIRST! Adult Juror

My six-year-old granddaughter really enjoyed this DVD. The storyline is quite interesting in showing the life of bees and how they gather honey and support the Queen and all the other bees in the colony. The story line continues with the Queen Bee of Poppy Meadow and her bees gathering honey for the winter. She realizes that they may not have enough honey for the hive to last the winter when she gets word that the Empress, her estranged sister, has declared that the Queen’s colony has been selected for The Honey Games. The Hive of Poppy Meadow is required to honor the Empress to donate 50% of their honey. They don’t have enough honey for their own hive to survive the winter, so the request is a difficult one to abide by. Maya and her best friend Willie go the Empress and please their case.

The story line is easy to follow and suitable for the target audience. The vocabulary and concepts are also right on target. There is a lot of teamwork shown and sometimes Maya tries things on her own but soon realizes that is a mistake and relies on her friends to help. There are some consequences and they are repaired by the characters in a nice way. Each becomes more respectful of the others as time passes.

The visual appeal of this DVD is appropriate and interesting enough for the youth it was designed for. The DVD is animated and colorful and lively in action to keep the interests of the intended audiences. I feel that the storyline of this is quite entertaining for youth and the pictures of the bees are so cute! The characters on the cover are so interesting you wonder what kind of trouble are they about to get into!

In terms of the message of this story, as the story develops, we discover that the Empress and the Queen are actually sisters that do not get along. Towards the end they make up and realize they love each other and miss being together. Forgiveness becomes the overall theme as we see the sisters resolve their differences. Also, during the competition games the contestants learn a few lessons about fairness and love. I give this DVD 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 9.

Credit: KIDS FIRST!

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Hundreds of Universal Studios Hollywood Employee Volunteers Bring Heartfelt Holiday Cheer to 1,000 M.E.N.D. Low Income Families at 27th Annual “Christmas in Spring” Philanthropic Event

June 5, 2018 By Leave a Comment

As part of its annual “Christmas in Spring” community outreach event, hundreds of Universal Studios Hollywood employee volunteers came together in partnership with M.E.N.D. (Meet Each Need with Dignity) on June 2nd, 2018 to bring goodwill to 1,000 guests, including families, in need.

Celebrating its 27th year, “Christmas in Spring” has touched the lives of over 16,000 family members living in poverty in the San Fernando Valley, providing them with holiday cheer during a time of year when their needs are often overlooked.

Families supported by M.E.N.D. enjoyed an afternoon of custom-prepared food and interactive festivities, from carnival games and face painters to a live DJ.

 The “Christmas in Spring” is a charity event sponsored by Universal Studios Hollywood and it’s “Discover A Star” Foundation. The Foundation provides grants to deserving organizations whose initiatives help individuals and families to achieve more productive and fulfilling lives.

   Santa Claus and very merry mischievous Minions from the theme park’s popular “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” ride made a special appearance alongside SpongeBob, Scooby Doo, Shaggy, King Julian and Puss N’ Boots characters.

Credit: Universal Studios Hollywood and M.E.N.D.

 

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News
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