Archives for April 20, 2021

The Year Earth Changed * A Must Watch For Anyone That Lives On The Earth!

This film offers a fresh new approach to the global lockdown and the uplifting stories that have come out of it. People all over the world have had the chance to engage with nature like never before. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Eshaan M. comments, “Perfectly timed for Earth Day, The Year Earth Changed is a mesmerizing portrait of the natural world in a year of lockdowns and quarantine. It’s a must-watch for nature lovers, and even if you aren’t a nature lover, you’ll love the cinematography!”  Dominic D., adds, “The Year Earth Changed is a magnificent documentary emphasizing the immediate need for reducing man’s footprint on the natural world. The film shows us firsthand how we are able to transform the health of the planet by making adaptations in the way we live our lives. David Attenborough, narrator of the film, explains how striking changes on and below the surface of the earth, as well as within the atmosphere, can take place when humans allow more of a balance between them and nature.” See their full reviews below.

The Year Earth Changed

By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Perfectly timed for Earth Day, The Year Earth Changed is a mesmerizing portrait of the natural world in a year of lockdowns and quarantine. It’s a must-watch for nature lovers, and even if you aren’t a nature lover, you’ll love the cinematography!

Narrated by Sir David Attenborough, The Year Earth Changed is a documentary featuring exclusive footage from five continents that shows you a silver lining of the COVID-19 pandemic – the planet was given a much-needed break! The BBC Natural History Unit compiled film from Jalandhar, India of the Himalayas on the horizon, of clear skies in polluted places like Los Angeles and China, of birdsongs in San Francisco, of whales in Glacier Bay and of hippos walking to the gas station in South Africa, among many others. The crew even got the chance to film a leopard, which adapted from its nocturnal routines to hunting in the daylight, within feet of their camera.

The Year Earth Changed is a beautifully constructed film, and the care taken in creating it and obtaining accurate facts is evident. There’s little I can mention that would detract from the glory of elephants and humans living side-by-side, of Japanese deer running across the city to their old grazing patch, and of capybara finding new pastures in the homes of Argentina’s suburban families. This is simply an amazing family watch.

The Year Earth Changed puts forth perhaps the most convincing argument that the pandemic has actually had an upside to it, showing real evidence of natural change and organisms thriving in their habitats, unbothered by humans. The message of the 48-minute film is to respect nature and recognize that after this pandemic, we need to do all we can to be kinder to the Earth.

I give The Year Earth Changed 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for kids age 7 to 18, plus adults. You can watch it now on Apple TV+!

The Year Earth Changed (2021)

By Dominic D., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 11

Over the past year, humans across the globe have had to adapt while taking a pause due to the pandemic lockdown. Interestingly so, while our lives were a bit on hold, something very interesting and exciting has happened right under our noses. The absence of humans in a variety of ecosystems around the world has had a profound effect on the natural world. The Year Earth Changed is a compelling new, one-hour documentary that takes us on a journey to over 30 cities across five continents, detailing nature’s response to the global pandemic. The film highlights for viewers that this global experiment is our “call to action” in making positive change for Mother Nature.

The Year Earth Changed is a magnificent documentary emphasizing the immediate need for reducing man’s footprint on the natural world. The film shows us firsthand how we are able to transform the health of the planet by making adaptations in the way we live our lives. David Attenborough, narrator of the film, explains how striking changes on and below the surface of the earth, as well as within the atmosphere, can take place when humans allow more of a balance between them and nature. One year’s worth of amazing research for this documentary displays how simple things such as the reduction of travel, crowds at beaches, and people within cities can improve our fragile ecosystems.  The Year Earth Changed is a timely film and critical for us all to see!

This film is so uplifting and has a great deal to rave about. The beautiful photography, drone shots and elusive video footage are incredibly captivating. The flourishing habitats that are captured in this documentary certainly give us something to smile about. Executive producer Alice Keens-Soper and director Tom Beard have given the world something very special – a new appreciation for what humans can do to help preserve our global ecosystems. Every example we are presented with in The Year Earth Changed is inspiring and heartfelt. I can only hope that this story of change can be globally presented for all to witness.

The message in The Year Earth Changed is simple – man and nature must find a balance. If we are to share our planet with the variety of species that occupy it, we must live harmoniously. Modest changes in the way we live are vital for the future of our natural world. The speed at which nature is disappearing is alarming and, if we are unable to coexist, species will be lost forever. The Year Earth Changed is a “wake up call,” and it’s critical that its message be shared.

I give The Year Earth Changed 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 6 to 18. Adults would also love this documentary. The Year Earth Changed begins streaming on April 16, 2021 on Apple TV+. A great way to celebrate Earth Day is to encourage everyone to watch this film!

National Geographic Announces Star-Studded Earth Day Eve Celebration with Willie Nelson, Yo-Yo Ma, Ziggy Marley, Maggie Rogers, and More!

This year, National Geographic is giving multiple ways to celebrate Earth Day at home, kicking off with a star-studded Earth Day Eve virtual concert which will be streaming on Wednesday, April 21, at 8:30 p.mEDT, and available exclusively on the National Geographic YouTube page or at http://natgeo.com/earthdayeve

Hosted by travel expert Jessica Nabongo, the concert will feature performances from Angélique KidjoAURORAJosé GonzálezMaggie RogersRostam, Valerie June, Willie Nelson, Yo-Yo Ma, and Ziggy Marley, as well as a world premiere new music video from My Morning Jacket. These artists are environmentalists and changemakers as much as they are musicians and songwriters, all of whom have a passion for sustainability and creating a better place for the future of our children. Each of these musical artists will perform from places of importance to them around the world and appearances by National Geographic Explorers like Dr. Jane Goodall, Dr. Rae Wynn Grant and more, will take viewers on a virtual journey when it’s needed most.

The event will also include a number of exciting announcements by the brand and be followed by a virtual afterparty on the new National Geographic TikTok account at 10 pm EDTIn Nat Geo’s first-ever TikTok Live, viewers will be invited to drop by to hear Jayda G. spin an original set accompanied by stunning visuals from the new Disney+ series, “Earth Moods.” In the meantime, National Geographic has published a newly created Spotify playlist that’s the perfect soundtrack for Earth Month.

Credit: National Geographic.

Bring Health and Happiness to your Pet’s Life with CBD oil

Having a dog makes you realize how his presence increases your quality of life. Dogs are incredible family members who aren’t only fun being around. Indeed, they prove to be beneficial for your kids as well. Dog owners readily agree:

“A boy can learn a lot from a dog: obedience, loyalty, and the importance of turning around three times before lying down.”

– Robert Benchley

Dogs are sure to bring about happiness to your life, but what if they’re unhealthy or aging. Will the impact be pretty much the same?

Maybe not!

If your dog struggles with arthritis or gets nervous around thunderstorms, you’ll want to fix these problems immediately. And, why not? As owners, it is hard to see your pet suffering.

But, not so much now. A new-fangled solution- CBD Oil can work wonders.

Yes, you heard that right!

CBD is an abbreviation for Cannabidiol- a compound that’s found in cannabis plants. This magical plant substance has a gazillion medical benefits for both humans and animals. If you’re worried about your dog’s deteriorating health, it becomes vital to turn attention to some CBD benefits for your dog. Read on to know more:

  • Relieves Pain:

Research sheds light on the effectiveness of CBD against various types of problems. These may be nerve-related pain and inflammation. CBD oil also alleviates the effects of arthritis and helps with joints and mobility pain.

  • Increases Appetite and Fights Nausea in Senior Dogs:

A healthy diet works amazingly well in enhancing the life of an aging dog. Your dog must receive the right kind of nutrients for gaining the strength to battle severe sickness. As dogs age, many health conditions crop up and reduce their appetite. As a result, the dogs become weak and vulnerable to health issues.

With CBD oil, you can counteract the deteriorating effects and help in increasing appetite. Cannabinoids help to improve appetite and also reduce the symptoms of nausea and vomiting.

  • Treats Epilepsy and Seizures:

Humans are active CBD users, but modern medicine is evidence of its use for pets. If your pet is suffering, cbd oil for dog seizures can help. Although the medical experts prescribe medicines for administering your beloved friend with seizure activity, they can prove harmful to their liver. Thus, CBD oil can be an effective way out.

  • Boosts Heart Health:

Ongoing research on aesthetic dogs has proven that CBD oil reduces high blood pressure and enables them to have a healthy heart. Studies on animals show the impact of stress on high blood pressure. CBD oil lacks fatty acids, making this compound an ideal ingredient for relieving stress and elevated blood pressure in dogs.

Use CBD to Give your Dog a Dose of Health

Now that you’re aware of the health benefits of CBD for your dog ensure getting the dosage right. Talk to your veterinarian and inquire about your dog’s best product.

There are diverse types of CBD oil available in the market. All you’ve to do is get the right product and dosage for your furry friend. You can consider enlightening yourself by going through a valuable resource as a part of your action plan.

Dog owners- now’s the perfect time to head off to a CBD store for your pet’s sake!

Ralphs and Food 4 Less Celebrate National Banana Day

To celebrate National Banana Day April 21, Ralphs and Food 4 Less will give away one hundred cases – or 10,000 bananas – to Feeding San Diego, plus offer tips and recipes about America’s most popular fruit.    

“We are driven by our ‘food first’ mission that no matter who you are, where you’re from, how you shop or what you like to eat, everyone deserves to have fresh, affordable, and easy-to-enjoy food,” said Vanessa Rosales, director, corporate affairs, Food 4 Less. “Bananas are the epitome of an easy to enjoy, nutritious and versatile snack and we’re thrilled to provide these to Feeding San Diego as part of our commitment to giving back to our communities through our Zero Hunger Zero Waste efforts.”

Food 4 Less produce merchandiser, Jose De Leon, shares these tips to keep bananas fresh:

·       Buying yellow-to-green colored bananas is a great way to extend bananas’ shelf life

·       Keep them at room temperature and separate from other product, instead of in the refrigerator 

·       Wrap the banana stems in plastic wrap to slow down ripening.

·       Avoid overhandling to prevent bruising.

·       Once bananas are completely ripened, pop them in the fridge.

·       For longer periods of time and preserving, freeze individually peeled bananas.

For nearly 500 recipe ideas using bananas, click here.

Credit: Ralph’s and Food 4 Less. Image was also provided.

Be a Conservation Hero this Earth Day by joining LA Zoo’s Walk For The Wild presented by Skechers

”The Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA) is launching its first-ever fitness fundraiser with presenting sponsor Skechers—Walk for the Wild—on Earth Day, April 22, to raise critical funds to support the Los Angeles Zoo and its species-saving work. From April 22 through Endangered Species Day on May 21, participants will take a virtual walk “around the world” to explore the global conservation impact of the L.A. Zoo and learn about efforts to save threatened species. Participants will be rewarded throughout the journey with digital fitness and fundraising badges, exclusive content, plus rewards based on fundraising level. Join individually or as a team and participate in a little friendly competition to win prizes. Proceeds benefit the Los Angeles Zoo and GLAZA, the nonprofit organization that supports the Zoo and plays a central role in making its vital conservation work possible. Registration is happening now with registration levels that include a commemorative T-shirt and medal. To learn more and to register, visit www.lazoo.org/walkforthewild.

“Because it’s easy for anyone to participate, Walk for the Wild encourages the entire Los Angeles community to engage in a lifelong philanthropic relationship with the L.A. Zoo’s wildlife conservation mission, from schoolchildren to grandparents. Whoever you are, you can save species from extinction and be a conservation hero,” says GLAZA President Tom Jacobson.

In honor of Earth Day this Thursday, April 22, Skechers, along with other generous donors, will make a $45 matching donation towards the personal fundraisers of the first 500 people who register that day (starting at 12:00 a.m. PDT), which will automatically qualify these lucky individuals for a commemorative medal and get them that much closer to earning fundraising rewards that start at $150 in total donations. To access the fundraising match, visit www.lazoo.org/walkforthewild to register. This offer applies to the first 500 new registrations and will expire at 11:59 p.m. PDT on April 22.

“Skechers’ walking comfort technology is about embracing a more active lifestyle at every age – and we’re proud to inspire our community to get outside, get fit and Walk for the Wild to benefit the Los Angeles Zoo and threatened species,” said Michael Greenberg, president of Skechers. “The Los Angeles Zoo is one of our city’s most beloved destinations, and this inaugural event is a wonderful way to improve our health as we help animals around the globe.”

Walk for the Wild is open to the public, and participants of all abilities and ages are encouraged to participate in the activity of their choosing – any physical movement will propel them towards their fitness goal. Fundraising rewards start at the $150 level (inclusive of registration fee) and include a plush toy and Walk for the Wild branded merchandise. To get inspired and to learn more on how to participate, please visit www.lazoo.org/walkforthewild.

Credit: The L.A. Zoo and Skechers.

Do Good * Heartbreaking and Heartwarming Show About Hurricanes Laura and Delta during COVID-19

Do Good is a ten-episode docuseries premiering March 5, 2021 on YouTube that turns the spotlight on the heroic relief efforts, including by veterans, following the deadly Category 4 Hurricane Laura that devastated Southwest Louisiana in August 2020, followed just six weeks later by Hurricane Delta.

“With the recent deadly winter storms hitting much of the country, we saw many examples of neighbors rising to the occasion to help neighbors. Do Good tells similarly powerful and inspirational stories of the recovery efforts following the back-to-back hurricanes that hit Louisiana last year,” said Producer and Director Justin Roberts. “In challenging times such as our nation has been facing, it’s time to shine the light on the many people who are sacrificing for others.” KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Eshaan M. comments, “Do Good is both a heartbreaking and heartwarming show in its portrayal of the destruction and suffering that followed Hurricanes Laura and Delta, which wracked Louisiana during the COVID-19 pandemic. The show’s creators are masters in the art of storytelling. You’ll laugh and cry and will certainly be motivated to be a part of a good cause.” See his full review below.

Do Good
By Eshaan Mani, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Do Good is both a heartbreaking and heartwarming show in its portrayal of the destruction and suffering that followed Hurricanes Laura and Delta, which wracked Louisiana during the COVID-19 pandemic. The show’s creators are masters in the art of storytelling. You’ll laugh and cry and will certainly be motivated to be a part of a good cause.

Do Good is the brainchild of veterans Justin Roberts and Hank Barbe, whose idea it was to learn and share the stories of those suffering from Hurricanes Laura and Delta, which hit Louisiana last year, and link arms with organizations that are working towards recovery. Once the series reaches monetization requirements on YouTube, those funds will go directly to the organizations featured in the series.

It is truly sad to see the displacement and destruction caused by the hurricanes, and you feel genuinely bad for them. The human touch to the episodes, including interjections from Roberts and Barbe, the detailed storytelling and interviews backed by soft, poignant background music, and the empathy shown by volunteers really touches your heart. I especially found the case of Christine, a 92-year-old hurricane survivor who lives in her Jeep, to be heart-rending. You’ll have to watch the show to learn more about her story.

Do Good’s message is just that: to do good and to help others in times of adversity, just like the organizations highlighted in each episode. This is a beautifully human film and is an incredible watch during the time we live in now, when kindness and altruism can seem hard to come by.

I give Do Good 5 stars out of 5 and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. You can watch episodes 1 and 2 of Do Good on YouTube, right now!