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Charlie & Frog by Karen Kane is a Must-Read!

April 20, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Looking for a great Mystery story for your kids? This one is great for ages 10-14! (Maybe a little younger or a little older depending on the kid). I also love how it teaches about sign language! This is a must-read.

We also had the opportunity to ask the Author a question and I love her answer to this one!

“DEAF CAN!” In Charlie & Frog, there is a statue at the school that represents a real-life true story about ASL’s origins. Frog’s dad explains that this is where her name comes from. Could you please share that story?

In Charlie & Frog, there is a statue at the school that represents a real-life true story about ASL’s origins. It is there because I took a piece of Deaf history and added my own twist. Inside the front gates of Gallaudet University, the world’s only university for Deaf and hard of hearing people, there is a statue of Alice Cogswell and Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet. Gallaudet was a neighbor of nine-year-old Alice, and even though she couldn’t hear, he was convinced she was intelligent and could learn. He proved it by placing his hat on the ground and writing the word “hat” in the dirt. Alice pointed to his hat, understanding those letters meant “hat.” Encouraged, Alice’s father sent Gallaudet to find a teacher for his daughter. Gallaudet went to Paris and returned with Deaf teacher Laurent Clerc. Together they opened the first school for the Deaf in Hartford, Connecticut in 1817.

Now comes my twist to this piece of Deaf history. In Charlie & Frog, Frog’s family history includes the story of Francine, the first child to be born Deaf in her family. The family learned about this newly established school for the Deaf, and planned a visit. When they arrived, they encountered Alice Cogswell sitting outside, studying a frog. Francine headed over to Alice, who signed “frog,” and pointed to the little hopper. Francine then repeated the sign “frog” and began hopping around. Two hundred years later there is now another bronze statue—this one of Alice and Francine, each signing the first letter of her own name. And a little frog sits between them.

Credit: Karen Kane.

Photo: Author, Karen Kane. 

Self Disclosure: I received a free copy of the book for participating in this Book Blog Tour. I only feature books I highly recommend and love this one! 

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Aquarium’s Harbor Seal Shelby Gives Birth to Pup

April 20, 2018 By Leave a Comment

The nonprofit Aquarium of the Pacific is pleased to announce that Shelby, one of the Aquarium’s harbor seals, has given birth to a pup. Shelby is one of the Aquarium’s original animals and was two years old when the facility opened in 1998. Most seals give birth to young starting at four to five years of age. At twenty-two years old, Shelby is considered a mature mom, and this is her third pup. Shelby gave birth to her first pup, a female named Bixby, in April 2012 at age seventeen and her second, a male named Toby, in 2013. Bixby was moved to a zoo in the Midwest in 2015 with other female harbor seals, and Toby is slated to move to an aquarium in the southeast in May. Troy, the Aquarium’s only male harbor seal, is the father of all three pups and has lived at the Aquarium since 2007.

“Shelby has had a normal, healthy pregnancy, and with her success at giving birth to two pups here at the Aquarium in recent years, we were cautiously optimistic about the arrival of her third pup. It is particularly special to the Aquarium that one of our charter animals has given birth to the next generation in the year of our twentieth anniversary,” said Dudley Wigdahl, Aquarium curator of mammals and birds. Shelby and her pup are in the holding area next to the Seal and Sea Lion Habitat. The shades may be open at times and closed at other times to allow for privacy for the mother and pup to bond.

Shelby is a Pacific harbor seal. Harbor seals can be found in the eastern Pacific Ocean from the southern coast of Alaska to the northern portion of Baja, Mexico. Their color and markings are unique to each seal, like a human’s fingerprints. Some have light-colored fur of almost white to silver or gray with darker circular or ring marks. Others have darker fur with light-colored markings. They range in size from 4 to 6.6 feet long and weigh between 110 to 375 pounds (males tend to be larger than females). They may spend up to 85 percent of the day diving for prey, primarily schooling and bottom-dwelling fishes such as herring, surfperch, rockfish, salmon, and hake. They are also partial to some invertebrates, including crustaceans. They get the water they need from their food and live about twenty-five to thirty years in the wild and longer under human care. Harbor seals are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act. While the species is not currently listed as endangered or threatened, harbor seals are sensitive to human encroachment.

The nonprofit Aquarium of the Pacific is a community gathering place where diverse cultures and the arts are celebrated and where important challenges facing our planet are explored by scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders in search of sustainable solutions. The Aquarium is dedicated to conserving and building nature and nature’s services by building the interactions between and among people. Home to over 11,000 animals, Aquarium exhibits include FROGS: Dazzling and Disappearing. Beyond its animal exhibits, the Aquarium offers educational programs for people of all ages. The Aquarium won a 2015 Travelers’ Choice Award for Aquariums, as awarded by TripAdvisor® travelers, and the 2017 TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence. The Aquarium offers memberships with unlimited FREE admission for 12 months, VIP Entrance, and other benefits. For more information, please call (562) 590-3100 or visit aquariumofpacific.org.

Credit: The Aquarium of the Pacific. Photo Credit: Aquarium of the Pacific.

 

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

A Quick Look at California’s Smaller (and Safer!) Theme Parks

April 20, 2018 By Leave a Comment

With summer rapidly approaching, parents are looking for fun places to take the kids. California is always a great place for families because there is so much to do and see. With so many theme parks and beaches, there is almost too much to choose from! However, you aren’t exactly thrilled about the prospect of being pushed and shoved in elbow-to-elbow crowds and so you are probably looking for some attractions which won’t be as big, and probably not nearly as dangerous.

Every Parent’s Nightmare – Losing a Child in the Crowd

Not only can you quickly lose sight of kids who tend to wander away if you don’t keep them tightly in hand, but there is always that off-chance that they will willingly go with a stranger, which is every parent’s nightmare. You might want to check on sites like Parent Guide to get tips from other parents who have found ways to keep their kids close in crowds. You’d be surprised at some of the innovative ways they’ve discovered. In the meantime, here are some alternatives if you have your heart set on a vacation in California this year.

Adventure City in Anaheim

While it isn’t the massive Disneyland Resort, Adventure City is nearby and for some, even more fun. It’s like stepping back in time with roller coasters dating back all the way to the 1940s and a really spectacular place for family photo ops. You will also find a petting farm and a place where the bunnies roam (Canoodle), along with an assortment of larger rides that the tweens would probably prefer. Located just outside of Los Angeles, it’s close enough to downtown where mom can get in plenty of shopping, especially in the Fabric District where materials by the yard are so much cheaper than they are back home.

Santa Monica Pier and Beach

Just to the west of LA is Santa Monica Pier and Beach. Here is where kids can have a field day. Not only does the amusement park date back over 100 years but it’s located on the pier itself. It isn’t Coney Island in the East, but it sure is the next best thing. The amusement park itself is called Pacific Park, and no wonder because, as mentioned, it is actually on the Pacific Ocean – the coast that is! From the park, it’s just a short distance to the long, sandy beach where the family can get a quick dip in the ocean and spend a bit of time resting in the warm Southern California sun.

These are just a couple of examples of where you can go that isn’t nearly as crowded or as large as the main SoCal attractions, but they are delightful nonetheless. For a longer list of small but amazing attractions in California, check out the Visit California website. Take your time planning because there is much to offer. You may want to spend a day at Disneyland, Universal Studios, or Knotts Berry Farm, but then again, with so many smaller attractions to visit, you might not have time this summer. Maybe next year, but for now, there’s plenty to do without spending a small fortune. Have fun in the Golden State and see you next year!

Filed Under: Featured Services

Sesame Place Becomes the First Theme Park in the World to be Designated as a Certified Autism Center

April 19, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Sesame Place®, the nation’s only theme park based entirely on the award-winning show Sesame Street®, in conjunction with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), today announced the completion of a staff-wide autism sensitivity and awareness training at the theme park.  The completiondesignates Sesame Place as a Certified Autism Center (CAC) as distinguished by IBCCES, — the first theme park in the world to receive such a distinction. The certification aligns with National Autism Awareness Month and comes as the park readies for its 38th season, opening on April 28, 2018.

For almost 20 years, IBCCES has been the industry leader in autism training for licensed healthcare professionals and educators around the globe. IBCCES recognized that many families with children who have special needs have limited travel options, and in response, created training and certification programs specifically for the hospitality and travel industry.

As a Certified Autism Center, Sesame Place is required to provide ongoing training to ensure that team members have the requisite knowledge, skills, temperament, and expertise to interact with all families and children with special needs, specifically on the autism spectrum. Training takes place in the areas of sensory awareness, environment, communication, motor and social skills, program development, and emotional awareness as well as a comprehensive autism competency exam.  The autism training must be taken every two years in order to maintain the certification.

“As the first theme park in the world to complete the training and become a CAC, Sesame Place is better equipped to offer families inclusive activities for children with autism and other special needs,” explained Sesame Place park president Cathy Valeriano.  Robust pre-visit planning resources will be added to the park’s website including a sensory guide, developed by IBCCES.  This sensory guide will make it easier for parents to plan activities that satisfy their child’s specific needs and accommodations by providing insight on how a child with sensory processing issues may be affected by each sense for each attraction.  The park will also have two quiet rooms located on Sesame Island.  These rooms will have adjustable lighting, and a comfortable seating area for guests to take a break.

Sesame Place’s certification aligns with Sesame Workshop’s commitment to increasing awareness and understanding of autism.  Sesame Workshop launched the Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children initiative in 2015 and Julia, a Sesame Street Muppet with autism, came to life on the award-winning broadcast last spring, signaling a strong, continuing commitment to the autism community.  Julia made her debut at Sesame Place in 2017 as a walkaround character and is available for guest meet & greets. The park is developing in-park programs that will be implemented this season giving guests additional opportunities to interact with Julia.

“Since her debut, Sesame Street’s Julia has touched the lives of millions of children and families around the world and we’re proud that partners like Sesame Place are committed to providing autism-friendly experiences,” said Scott Chambers, Senior Vice President and General Manager, North America Media and Licensing, Sesame Workshop.  “We applaud them for earning this distinction.”

“IBCCES works with leading travel destinations to create safe, sensory-compatible travel options for parents and individuals on the spectrum. Our Certified Autism Center designation is awarded to premier organizations around the globe that have completed rigorous training and meet the highest industry standards,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman. “Sesame Place is ideal because of its accessibility to families and convenient location, as well as everything the organization has done to be inclusive for all. The CAC certification helps give parents and other guests on the spectrum peace of mind when visiting a new destination or attraction.”

“Sesame Place is honored to be leading the theme park industry through our commitment to making our facility friendly for families with children on the spectrum,” added Valeriano.  “We’re dedicated to providing all of our guests with an exceptional and memorable experience.  We look forward to applying this training and expanding our commitment to help spread awareness about autism.”

Credit:

About IBCCES

The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) was established in 2001 to meet the training and credentialing needs of professionals who work with individuals with special needs. IBCCES has since expanded into over 40 different countries with training centers in the United States and Singapore and members all across the globe. Our Certified Autism Specialist, Board Certified Cognitive Specialist and Certified Autism Center credentials were established with the highest standards in the industry. As a result, our programs have become the benchmark for those who work with cognitive disorders around the globe. In addition, IBCCES created and hosts the annual International Symposium on Cognitive Research & Disorders.  This global event brings together top neurologists, education leaders and healthcare experts with a focus on research, innovation and collaboration. For information about training and certification, visit ibcces.org

 

About Sesame Place®

Sesame Place®, the only theme park in the U.S. based entirely on the award-winning show, Sesame Street®, is ideal for families and kids of all ages.   Conveniently located just 30 minutes from Philadelphia and 90 minutes from New York City, the park has over 25 attractions, three live shows, a daily parade and of course, everyone’s favorite furry friends.  NEW IN SPRING 2018: the biggest, most exciting roller coaster ever – Oscar’s Wacky Taxi™! The new wooden-steel hybrid roller coaster will take thrill seekers of all sizes on a crazy, curvy taxi cab ride, with everyone’s favorite grouch at the helm.  Before little kids become big kids, go before they grow® to the nation’s only theme park based entirely on Sesame Street®.  For more information, visit www.sesameplace.com.or call 1-215-752-ELMO.

Filed Under: Announcements

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
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