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IF * Delivers A Lot Of Heart And Reminds Us To Keep The Magic Alive

May 20, 2024 By Leave a Comment

From writer and director John Krasinski, IF is about a girl who discovers that she can see everyone’s imaginary friends — and what she does with that superpower — as she embarks on a magical adventure to reconnect forgotten IFs with their kids. IFstars Cailey Fleming, Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski, Fiona Shaw, and the voices of Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Louis Gossett Jr. and Steve Carell alongside many more as the wonderfully unique characters that reflect the incredible power of a child’s imagination.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kennedy P. comments, “I love the film IF.  It delivers a lot of heart and teaches everyone to keep the magic alive.  It is fun, silly and had me shedding a tear in the theater and thinking about my childhood and imaginary friend. The cast is outstanding and the CGI work is so impressive. This movie will bring you right back to your childhood in all the most magical ways.” See her full review below.

IF
By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 9



I love the film IF.  It delivers a lot of heart and teaches everyone to keep the magic alive.  It is fun, silly and had me shedding a tear in the theater and thinking about my childhood and imaginary friend.

In the film Bea (Cailey Fleming) discovers she can see everyone’s imaginary friends and embarks on a magical adventure to reconnect forgotten IFs with their kids.  Bea has gone through a lot and is forcing herself to grow up and then, she meets Cal (Ryan Reynolds) and re-discovers her belief in the unbelievable. Bea needed a distraction as life was getting tougher for her and helping these imaginary friends is just what she needed. 

IF is a fantastic film that is perfect for the entire family. The cast is outstanding and the CGI work is so impressive. This movie will bring you right back to your childhood in all the most magical ways. Cailey Fleming is remarkable.  Her relationship onscreen with Ryan Reynolds is magical — they get along perfectly and you can feel their natural connection.  John Krasinski’s role as Bea’s father is amazing — he is silly, loving and fun, and does not want Bea to give up on being a child. He jokes around with her a lot throughout the movie, even when she tells him to stop. His response is “never.”  John Krasinski not only stars in the film, but he wrote and directed it as well. The IF’s are designed so well and there is something special about each one of them.  They look so real on the screen and I fell in love with them immediately.  Cailey’s performance is terrific when she interacts with the IF’s that obviously were not really there during filming.

The film’s message deals with healing yourself and creating distractions when life gets difficult.  It reminds us to never lose the joy in life — keep the magic alive and believe in the unbelievable. It is about family, friendship and always having someone who is there for you, even if you have to make believe.  The movie is the perfect length and never drags.

I give IF 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults.  You can watch IF in theaters on May 17, 2024.

Filed Under: Media Reviews

The Beastly Ball Returns to the Los Angeles Zoo on Saturday, June 1, 2024

May 20, 2024 By Leave a Comment

The Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA) is thrilled to announce the return of its annual fundraising event, the Beastly Ball, on Saturday, June 1, 2024. Actor, comedian, and television host Joel McHale is back for the fifth time as emcee, lending his celebrity and signature humor in support of wildlife care and conservation.

This party under the stars promises an unforgettable night of adventure and meaningful impact, as celebrities, tastemakers, business leaders, city officials, philanthropists, and zoo-lovers gather in support of the Los Angeles Zoo’s and GLAZA’s shared mission: saving wildlife, enriching our communities, and creating connections to nature.

“Each year, this fundraising event serves as a way to honor the Zoo’s achievements in conservation and to acknowledge outstanding individuals and organizations dedicated to conservation and supporting the Zoo’s ongoing role as an educational destination,” said Dawn Petersen-Amend, Interim President of GLAZA. “This event is vital in furthering our mission, allowing GLAZA to sustain its support for the Zoo’s initiatives in wildlife conservation, community outreach programs, and advancements in animal care and veterinary medicine.”

Guests of the Beastly Ball will enjoy an exceptional after-hours stroll through the Zoo, complete with special animal experiences, gourmet food and drinks, an exclusive silent auction, and captivating entertainment, with delightful surprises throughout the event. The evening will culminate with McHale leading a rousing paddle raise to inspire donations in support of the Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center (GRACE) in the Democratic Republic of Congo. GRACE is a conservation partner of the Los Angeles Zoo and the evening’s philanthropic focus whose mission is to provide excellent care for rescued Grauer’s gorillas and work alongside Congolese communities to promote the conservation of wild gorillas and their habitat.

This year’s Ball will honor the Angela D. Collier Foundation, which focuses on funding animal welfare charities and developing park space for zoos, and its president, Mohammad Virani. The foundation has made significant contributions to the Los Angeles Zoo, including funding the Angela Collier World of Birds Theater, home of the spectacular World of Birds Show. In celebration of the birth of a female western lowland gorilla in 2020, the newest troop member was named “Angela” in honor of the late Angela Collier, a devoted animal advocate. Additionally, GLAZA Trustee Esther S. M. Chui-Chao will be honored for her passionate support of wildlife conservation and commitment to furthering GLAZA’s mission. Chui-Chao’s association with the Zoo dates back to 1984, yet her affection for wildlife originated in her early years on her grandfather’s farm near Hong Kong. This childhood passion translated into a lifelong devotion that has played a pivotal role in helping shape the direction of GLAZA’s initiatives, ensuring that its efforts are impactful and sustainable.

“We thank Mohammad Virani and the Angela D. Collier Foundation for the contributions that have provided countless opportunities for the communities we serve to connect with wildlife and nature,” said Denise M Verret, Los Angeles Zoo CEO and Zoo Director. “Esther S. M. Chui-Chao’s support for the Zoo and her life-long commitment to wildlife continue to have a positive impact on Angelenos through the Zoo and its programs. On behalf of the entire Los Angeles Zoo family, we thank both honorees for their unwavering commitment to the Zoo and support of our mission.”

Since the Ball’s inception in 1971, GLAZA has had a long history of successful fundraising for the Los Angeles Zoo. In 2022, the event raised more than $1.4 million, making it one of the top-grossing events in its history. The following year, in 2023, the Ball raised over $1.6 million, with McHale leading a lively paddle raise to help fund a scholarship program for under resourced schools, providing free admission and transportation to the Zoo. At the event, the scholarship program was renamed Betty White’s Zoo Pals in honor of the late actress, who served as a GLAZA trustee for more than 50 years.

Beastly Ball tickets are $1,500 per person, with individual and corporate sponsorship opportunities at higher levels also available. The Los Angeles Zoo is located at 5333 Zoo Drive in Los Angeles’ Griffith Park at the junction of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways. Free parking is available. For tickets, information about mobile bidding, and additional information, visit www.lazoo.org/beastlyball or call 323-486-4253.

Corporate Partners supporting the Beastly Ball include California Credit Union and U.S. Bank.

Credit: LA Zoo.

Filed Under: Archived Content

Summer Activities Kids Will Love

May 20, 2024 By Leave a Comment

Summer is a wonderful time for children to explore, learn, and have fun. With long days and warm weather, the opportunities for engaging activities are endless. Whether your child is an outdoor enthusiast, a budding artist, or a curious learner, there are several summer activities they will enjoy. Here are some suggestions to help you make the most of the sunny season with your children.

1. Outdoor Adventures

Skateboarding

Skateboarding is not only a fun activity but also a great way for kids to develop balance and coordination. Find a local skate park where your child can practice and meet other kids who share their interests. Skateboarding can be a great form of exercise, and teaching your child new techniques can give them a sense of accomplishment. To safeguard their safety, individuals should wear protective gear such as a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads. Enrolling in bay area skateboard lessons or nearby classes will help beginners gain valuable skills and confidence.

Hiking and Nature Walks

Taking your kids on hiking trails or nature walks is a great way to enjoy the summer weather. These activities not only improve physical fitness, but also allow children to learn about nature. Provide your child with a small backpack, a water bottle, and a magnifying glass for exploration. Teach children how to identify various flora, insects, and birds. This hands-on engagement with nature has the potential to create a lifelong interest in environmental issues.

Swimming

Swimming is a quintessential summer activity that kids of all ages enjoy. Whether it’s in a pool, lake, or the ocean, swimming helps kids stay active and cool during the hot summer months. Consider enrolling your kids in swimming lessons if they are not already confident swimmers. Pool games like water polo, diving contests, and races can add extra fun.

Tennis

Tennis is a fantastic sport for kids to play during the summer. It promotes agility, hand-eye coordination, and overall fitness. Many local clubs offer summer tennis camps or lessons tailored for kids of various skill levels or you can search for tennis courts near by you such as tennis courts in California or New York . Playing tennis can also teach kids important life skills such as discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Whether they play with friends or take part in a structured program, tennis can be a fun and rewarding activity. Don’t forget to equip them with proper tennis shoes and a well-sized racket.

2. Creative Endeavors

Arts and Crafts

Summer is an ideal season for children to express their creativity through arts and crafts. Create a craft station with resources such as paper, markers, paint, glue, and recyclable materials. Encourage your children to make their own masterpieces, whether they are painting, sculpting with clay, or creating collages. There are also several craft tutorials available online for projects suitable for a variety of age groups and ability levels.

DIY Projects

Engage your children in DIY projects that are both entertaining and informative. Build a birdhouse, a garden, or build your own slime. These projects can teach children important skills such as measuring, following directions, and problem solving. Furthermore, individuals gain gratification from viewing their finished output.

Cooking and Baking

Invite your kids into the kitchen for some cooking and baking fun. Choose simple recipes that are kid-friendly, such as cookies, muffins, or homemade pizzas. Cooking together can teach kids about measuring, following directions, and the importance of healthy eating. Plus, they’ll love tasting the delicious results of their efforts.

3. Educational Activities

Reading Challenges

Encourage your kids to keep their minds sharp over the summer with a reading challenge. Create a list of age-appropriate books and set goals for them to reach. Many local libraries offer summer reading programs with incentives and prizes. Reading not only improves literacy skills but also fuels imagination and creativity.

Science Experiments

Turn your home into a mini science lab with fun and simple experiments. Make a volcano erupt with baking soda and vinegar, create a rainbow with a prism, or grow crystals with salt or sugar. These experiments are not only entertaining but also teach kids about scientific concepts in a hands-on way.

Educational Outings

Plan outings to local museums, zoos, or aquariums. These trips can be both fun and educational, providing kids with the opportunity to learn about history, animals, and science in an interactive setting. Many museums and zoos offer special summer programs or camps designed for kids.

Summer Camps

Consider enrolling your kids in summer camps. Whether it’s a day camp or an overnight camp, there are options for every interest, from sports and arts to science and adventure. Summer camps provide kids with the opportunity to make new friends, learn new skills, and gain independence.

Community Events

Many communities offer special events during the summer, such as outdoor concerts, festivals, and farmers’ markets. These events can be a fun way for families to spend time together and explore local culture. Check your community’s event calendar to find kid-friendly activities near you.

4. Social Activities

Playdates and Sleepovers

Summer is the perfect time for kids to strengthen friendships with playdates and sleepovers. Organize themed playdates with activities like water balloon fights, treasure hunts, or DIY tie-dye shirts. Sleepovers can include movie marathons, board games, and indoor camping.

Camping

Camping is an exciting way for kids to experience the great outdoors. Whether you set up a tent in your backyard or visit a nearby campsite, camping can be a fun and educational activity. Kids can learn basic survival skills, enjoy stargazing, and partake in traditional camping activities like roasting marshmallows and telling stories around the campfire. Make sure to pack plenty of games and outdoor toys to keep them entertained.

Beach Days

A day at the beach is always a hit with kids. Building sandcastles, playing beach volleyball, collecting seashells, and splashing in the waves are just a few activities they will love. Remember to pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water to keep everyone safe and hydrated. For added fun, bring along a boogie board or snorkeling gear to explore underwater life.

Summer is a time for kids to explore new activities, develop skills, and create lasting memories. From outdoor adventures and creative projects to educational outings and social activities, there is something for every child to enjoy. By providing a variety of engaging activities, you can ensure that your kids have a fun, enriching, and unforgettable summer. So, get out there and start planning the ultimate summer experience for your children!

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News