Disney On Ice Sets The Gold Standard With The Magical Ice Skating Spectacular TREASURE TROVE

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Audiences will discover endless riches when an extraordinary lineup of stories from the Disney Vault come to life for the ultimate Disney animation celebration with the delightful production, Disney On Ice presents Treasure Trove – Presented by Stonyfield YoKids Organic Yogurt. Disney On Ice sets the gold standard with its skating spectacular spanning tales from the first full-length animated film to the 50th Disney film, playing the Southland from April 13-24 at the Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario and Long Beach Arena.

Hit the ice with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald and Goofy as they embark on a fun-filled treasure hunt for some of the most popular Disney films ever. Get tangled up in Disney’s 50th animated feature with Rapunzel and Flynn. Enter the worlds of your other favorite Disney Princesses: Ariel, Belle, Cinderella, Jasmine, Aurora, Tiana, Mulan and, of course, the one who started it all, Snow White. Ahoy, Mateys! Set sail with Peter Pan, the always sassy Tinker Bell and the cantankerous Captain Hook & his pirate pals! Trek the wilds of Africa with Simba, Nala, Pumbaa and Timon as they discover the true meaning of the ‘Circle of Life.’ Tick-Tock! Tick-Tock! Don’t be late to a very important date with Alice and the Mad Hatter as they march with the Queen of Hearts’ Army of Cards. Plus set a playdate with Woody and Buzz Lightyear because the toys are back in town! Highlighting eight Disney movies and more than 50 Disney characters featured, Feld Entertainment’s Disney On Ice presents Treasure Trove – Presented by YoKids will create memories your family will treasure for a lifetime!
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O N T A R I O
WHEN: Wednesday, April 13 thru Sunday, April 17 o Wednesday, April 13 7:00PM o Thursday, April 14 7:00PM o Friday, April 15 7:00PM
o Saturday, April 16 11:00AM, 3:00PM & 7:00PM
o Sunday, April 17 1:00PM & 5:00PM

WHERE:
Citizens Business Bank Arena – 4000 Ontario Center Parkway, Ontario, CA 91764
TICKETS: Ticket prices range from $22, $28, $45 (VIP) and $70-$75 (Front Row)*
Opening Night tickets available for only $15 each (not valid for premium seating)

Tickets available for purchase online at AXS.com, charge by phone at 888-9AXS-TIX or in-person at the venue Box Office.
*ticket prices vary between weekday/weekend performances; tickets may be subject to service charges/facility fees – prices subject to change.

L O N G B E A C H
WHEN:
Thursday, April 21 thru Sunday, April 24 o Thursday, April 21 7:00PM o Friday, April 22 11:30AM & 7:00PM o Saturday, April 23 11:00AM, 3:00PM & 7:00PM o Sunday, April 24 11:00AM, 3:00PM & 7:00PM
WHERE:
Long Beach Arena – 300 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802
TICKETS: Ticket prices range from $22, $28, $50-$55 (VIP) and $75 (Front Row)*
Opening Night tickets available for only $15 each (not valid for premium seating)

Tickets available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 or in-person at the Long Beach Arena Box Office
*ticket prices vary between weekday/weekend performances; tickets may be subject to service charges/facility fees – prices subject to change.

MOM Discount Code – Use “Special Offer” Code Word – MOM for discounts on the below performances ONLY on www.AXS.com  andwww.Ticketmaster.com  

 

Valid Ontario Performances:

  • Thursday, April 14 at 7PM
  • Saturday, April 16 at 7PM
  • Sunday, April 17 at 1PM

 

Valid Long Beach Performances:

  • Friday, April 22 at 11:30AM
  • Saturday, April 23 at 11AM
  • Sunday, April 24 at 11AM

 

Self Disclosure: I received free media tickets to feature this featured event. No other compensation was received. Photo Credit: Disney on Ice.

International Children’s Day Festival, April 9-10, 2016 at The Aquarium of The Pacific

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The International Children’s Day Festival features dance and music performed by children, interactive programs for all ages, face painting, and educational programs.

The Aquarium of the Pacific’s eleventh annual International Children’s Day is a special festival for kids on the weekend of April 9-10, 2016, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Celebrating the amazing talents of children of all cultures, this festival features West African, Mexican, Pacific Islander, Cambodian, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Persian dance performances. Also featured will be an international children’s choir and martial arts demonstrations. Kids of all ages can partake in a percussion circle, face painting, Japanese origami, Native American crafts, and Pacific Islander traditional children’s games. The Aquarium will also honor a local youth with its annual Young Hero Award in recognition of his or her efforts to make our planet a better place.

The Aquarium is a community gathering place where diverse cultures and the arts are celebrated. “Our International Children’s Day is the culmination of all of our cultural festivals, where our various communities can come together to learn about the importance of working together to protect our ocean planet,” said Peter Martineau, Aquarium of the Pacific festival organizer. People are encouraged to celebrate the children in their lives and children around the world with this special annual event.
WHEN:
Saturday and Sunday, April 9 and 10, 2016, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
WHERE:
Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802
COST:
Included with admission: $29.95 for adults (12+), $26.95 for seniors (62+), $17.95 for children (3-11), and free for children under age three and Aquarium members
INFO: (562) 590-3100 or www.aquariumofpacific.org

With Coupon Receive FREE Child Admission with Paid Adult Admission. Regular Child admission is $17.95.
NEW! Mobile-device and printable coupon with the same offer is available at http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/fest8
We have teamed up for a Giveaway!
One winner will win Family 4-pack to International Children’s Day Festival, April 9-10, 2016!
See the event schedule here and tell us what you would be most exited about seeing!
Deadline to enter is April 5th, 2016 at noon PST. One winner will randomly be selected via Random.org.

AQUARIUM: 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 peoples. Home to more than 11,000 animals, Aquarium exhibits include the Ocean Science Center, and Molina Animal Care Center. Beyond its animal exhibits, the Aquarium offers educational programs for people of all ages, from hands-on activities to lectures by leading scientists. The Aquarium has won a 2015 Travelers’ Choice Award for Aquariums, as awarded by TripAdvisor® travelers. The Aquarium offers memberships with unlimited FREE admission for 12 months, VIP Entrance, and other special benefits.

Self Disclosure: Photo Credit: Courtesy of the Aquarium of the Pacific. No compensation was received to post. SoCal City Kids will select the winner and tickets and will email the winner.

Islands Restaurants Makes a Splash with New Topanga Location

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Known for specialty burgers, fresh-cut fries and ice-cold drinks, Islands Restaurants has brought its beach-inspired atmosphere to a new location in Los Angeles County. Located at 6600 Topanga Canyon Boulevard, the region’s newest Islands opened January 6, 2016.
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Debuting at Westfield Topanga – the region’s premiere shopping, dining and entertainment destination – the new restaurant location is the perfect spot for a post-shopping meal or drinks after an event. Architecturally, the new Islands location boasts an open and airy feel with fantastic big screen TVs visible from anywhere in the restaurant, ideal for cheering on sports teams or catching the latest surf videos.
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 “We are proud to bring a new Islands to the region,” said Michael Smith, president of Islands Restaurants. “Since opening our first location in Los Angeles more than 33 years ago, the San Fernando Valley has been very supportive. We currently have 9 locations in The Valley region and can’t think of a better new location than the Westfield Topanga center. We look forward to being a partner in the community and offering guests a neighborhood place to enjoy a great meal with family and friends.”
The Islands menu features delicious burgers such as the classic Big Wave or the Hawaiian topped with fresh grilled pineapple, teriyaki sauce and Swiss cheese; a variety of flavorful beach tacos and fresh salads; and its famed Island Fries – fresh-cut daily and cooked to crispy perfection. Guests can choose from a wide array of ice-cold beverages: local craft beers in frosty mugs or one of Islands’ signature tropical cocktails, including the Mai Tai or the Big Island Iced Tea with vodka, gin, tequila, rum, triple sec, pineapple juice and strawberry purée.
Guests can also visit Islands for happy hour each weeknight from 4 to 7 p.m. in the bar to enjoy discounted offerings including Beachside Sliders, Cheddar Fries, beer, wine and tropical cocktails.
Islands at Westfield Topanga is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.  For more information, please visit www.islandsrestaurants.com or call 747-600-2009.
I recently had the opportunity to visit this new location this week and was quite impressed! As you know, I am already a big fan of Islands Restaurants but I was slightly in awe of this new location! It’s beautiful and as usual, the customer service is beyond amazing! I really do think that employees at Islands Restaurants must go through special training. More than likely, they just hire the best people! 
The food is great! This time I tried the Hawaiian and loved it! I like that there is such a variety of options. But, what I  really love is that this is a real family restaurant and of course, I just love the beachy atmosphere and theme!
This is the place to eat this Spring Break and any other time of the year!
Follow Islands on Twitter and Instagram @IslandsBurgers and like Islands at www.facebook.com/IslandsRestaurants.
Here are some current happenings at Islands Restaurants:
  • March Madness: Starting March 14, locals can cheer on their favorite college team and enjoy craft beers, tropical cocktails and cheap eats throughout the NCAA Tournament. Through April 2, fans can also try the recently added Nalu Nalu Dog topped with roasted garlic aioli, sautéed onion, red and green bell peppers and melted swiss cheese, or the Pipeline Dog with chili, onions and American Cheese paired with a 16 oz. Coors Light  for $8.99 in the bar area. Islands will host it’s regular happy hour Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. featuring sliders, cheddar fries and tropical drinks.
  • Sriracha Smack: Featuring a Sriracha cream cheese, Pepper Jack cheese, crisp bacon and a Sriracha glaze, this limited time burger will bring a spicy kick to the Islands menu starting March 21.

Self Disclosure: I received a gift card to visit this location. No other compensation was received and any opinions expressed are my own. Photo Credit: Islands Restaurants. 

More About Islands Restaurants
Founded in 1982, Islands is privately held and has managed controlled but steady growth, with a focus on providing the finest quality food and an outstanding guest experience. The company’s philosophy that eating out should not be complicated is reflected in the simple, fresh ingredients found in its signature burgers that are never frozen, daily fresh-cut fries and the best tropical drinks around – all served in a laid back, beach-inspired environment. The Carlsbad-based company operates 55 restaurants throughout California, Arizona, Nevada and Hawaii. For more information visit www.islandsrestaurants.com.

The Place to go this Spring Break! Knott’s Berry Farm is a Must-Visit!

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I simply can’t believe that Spring Break is almost here! Looking for a fun day outing for the whole family? Knott’s Berry Farm is a favorite of ours! My son actually thinks that it is the best amusement park and he loves the roller coasters and thrill rides. I am a big fan of anything boysenberry especially jam and the salt water taffy! I just discovered the boysenberry salt water taffy on this past visit!

I like that there are also more mellow rides since I am getting older and can not handle every roller coaster!  I am also a BIG fan of Snoopy! I sometimes think that I like to go to Knott’s Berry Farm just to see Snoopy  and his pals!

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Speaking of Boysenberry…Celebrate Knott’s historic boysenberry this spring during Knott’s Boysenberry Festival, March 19 – April 3! To find out more, click here

Self Disclosure: I received Media comped tickets to visit Knott’s Berry Farm and facilitate this Spring time post.

More Springtime events:

March 18- Starbucks Opens- The first Starbucks location at Knott’s Berry Farm opens just outside the park in the CA Marketplace.

March 27- Easter Sunday Brunch-The expansive buffet includes dozens of your favorite brunch and dinner dishes.

See you at Knott’s Berry Farm this Spring!

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River, St. Patrick’s Day Pet of the Week!

River, March 17 Pet of the Week

Our ACS volunteer is about to do a River dance for St. Patrick’s Day with a partner of the same name! River, a 3-year-old brindle American Staffie, is as gentle and loving as he appears. He loves attention and walks, and he’s hoping for that pot of gold. If you live at the end of his rainbow, meet River on the shelter side of the Companion Animal Village at 7700 East Spring St., (562) 570-PETS. Ask for ID#A564665.

 

(The usual suspects contributed to this rescue)

Credit: Courtesy of the Companion Animal Village.

The Queen Mary Introduces FantaSea: Magic Festival

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The Queen Mary Introduces FantaSea: Magic Festival

 

A Magical Weekend aboard the Majestic Queen Mary April 8-10

The Queen Mary is thrilled to introduce FantaSea: Magic Festival, a magical weekend aboard the majestic Queen Mary, April 8-10, 2016. The glory of The Queen Mary and the mystique of the Academy of Magical Arts, and their World Famous Clubhouse The Magic Castle will converge to create one of the most captivating weekends of the year. Show-stopping performances and interactive trainings create a spell-binding punch of monumental proportion on this magical journey. Traverse the once salons and decks now transformed into The Enchanted Corridor, Hocus Pocus Parlour & Pub, Wizard Alley & Platform, The Cauldron, Abracadabra Café and The Secret Circle Study.

ACTIVITIES:

  • Mysteries of Magic Dinner Show – Experience a tantalizing 4-course feast to tempt your senses while the masters of illusion mystify your mind with an unforgettable evening of magic  (9th Only)
  • Friday Night of Illusions Show – Main Stage Show on the Wizarding Platform in Wizard Alley (8th Only)
  • Magic Mixology in The Cauldron – Let your senses bubble over with eccentric libations brought to you by the wizards of the mixology world, The Mixing Glass (8th & 9th Only)
  • Abracadabra Brunch Buffet – Enjoy a live jazz brunch featuring the velvety vocals of Hedge Hog Swing including bottomless mimosas, a serving of tableside magic and a stash of tricks up our sleeves. (8th Only)
  • Hocus Pocus Parlour & Pub – Soak up some suds and rub elbows with the likes of legendary magicians while taking in a show or three between DJ sets (21+ after 7pm)
  • The Enchanted Corridor – Saunter through the great hall of wonder where magic abounds with strolling tricksters and close up magic table shows.
  • Wizard Alley & Platform – Venture into the “alley” to partake in unusual mystical activities, shop for magical oddities and grab a snack at Mystic Morsels while taking in one of the many shows on The Wizarding Platform.
  • The Secret Circle Study – Gather in The Secret Circle for spell-binding lessons to expand your mind and master your craft in these Magic Academy Enrichment courses.
  • Conjuring After Dark Tour – A haunted history tour like no other, lead by a trained paranormal guide. You will explore the Queen Mary’s most notorious paranormal hot spots and hear chilling tails of the ships haunted past. What better place for such walks than The Queen Mary, voted top 10 most haunted places by Time Magazine.
  • Golden Era of Entertainers Tour – A magical tour highlighting the beautiful treasures aboard while showcasing the historic entertainers who once graced the stages of the majestic ship.

WHEN:

  • Friday, April 8, 7:00 p.m. to 1 a.m.
  • Saturday, April 9, 10 a.m. to 1 a.m.
  • Sunday, April 10, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

WHERE:
The Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802

MULTI -DAY TICKETS:

  • FantaSea: “Magic Mixology” Tasting Class ($18)
  • FantaSea: “Conjuring After Dark” Tour ($15)
  • FantaSea: “Golden Era Of Entertainers” Tour ($15)
  • The Weekend Wizard Passport ($159) – Includes all activities except Mysteries of Magic Dinner Show

FRIDAY ONLY TICKETS:

  • FantaSea: “Masters Of Illusion” Show ($29)
  • FantaSea: “Friday Night Of Illusions” Pass ($19)

SATURDAY ONLY TICKETS:

 

  • FantaSea: “Abracadabra Brunch” Buffet ($29 – $49)
  • FantaSea: “Saturday Of Prestige” Pass ($29)
  • FantaSea: “Saturday Night Of Mysteries” Pass ($19)

 

  • FantaSea: “Mysteries Of Magic” Dinner Show ($99) – Includes “Saturday Night of Mysteries” Pass

SUNDAY ONLY TICKET:

  • FantaSea: “Sunday Of Magic” Pass ($25)

PARKING:

  • $20 upon exit

PURCHASE TICKETS AND NFORMATION:

Credit: The Queen Mary.

Miracles From Heaven is a Columbia Pictures film and will open nationwide on Wednesday, March 16th

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MIRACLES FROM HEAVEN is based on the incredible true story of the Beam family.  When Christy (Jennifer Garner) discovers her 10-year-old daughter Anna (Kylie Rogers) has a rare, incurable disease, she becomes a ferocious advocate for her daughter’s healing as she searches for a solution.

After Anna has a freak accident, an extraordinary miracle unfolds in the wake of her dramatic rescue that leaves medical specialists mystified, her family restored and their community inspired.

You and a guest are invited to a special advance screening of MIRACLES FROM HEAVEN, to RSVP while space permits, go to:

http://www.sonyscreenings.com/SoCalCityKids

SoCal City Kids readers can just RSVP and print the passes and go to the check-in table and show the tickets which say SoCalCityKids.

There are 25 pairs of tickets so just click on the link above!

Please RSVP and bring your pass for admittance to the check-in table by 8 pm for priority VIP access.

Movie is rated PG for the following reasons:

THEMATIC MATERIAL INCLUDING ACCIDENT AND MEDICAL IMAGES 

Website: MiraclesFromHeaven-Movie.com

 

Social Media:

  • Instagram – @MiraclesFromHeaven
  • Twitter – @MiraclesFromHeaven
  • Facebook- @MiraclesFromHeaven
  • #MiraclesFromHeaven

 

  • ShareYourMiracle.com – ShareYourMiracle.com is a meme generator where you can upload a photo of your miracle (family member, animal, etc), enter a name and it will automatically generate a new image of your miracle with the caption “X Is My Miracle From Heaven”. The meme can be downloaded and shared on social media.

 

Self Disclosure: Thank you to Sony Pictures!

 

Stock the Kitchen and Save

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One of the easiest ways to make healthier choices is to stock the pantry with key ingredients for making healthy meals. From Jan. 15 – 17, 365 Everyday Value® products are 10 percent off.  Shop hundreds of value priced items from frozen meals, fresh produce to spices, baking essentials and even body care.

Dates of sale: Friday, Jan. 15 – Sunday, Jan. 17, 2016

What’s on sale: ALL 365 Everyday Value® items 10 percent off

Why shop Whole Foods Market’s 365 Everyday Value® items? These items meet the company’s strict quality standards – which means no artificial colorings, flavors or preservatives – and are available at a value price point.

Tips and ideas for healthy eating on a budget:

  • Keep basic staples on hand like coconut and olive oil, whole grains, dried beans and low sodium vegetable broth. Here’s a list of items to fill the pantry with.
  • Swap conventional family-favorites like sandwich cookies, mac & cheese, cereals, yogurt and peanut butter with healthier versions. 365 Everyday Value®versions of family-favorites are free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives and dairy products come from rBST free cows.
  • Once or twice a week, shop for more perishable items like lean protein and seasonal produce for a complete meal. A tip: Whole Foods Market offers promotional pricing on family packs and value packs in meat, seafood and produce.
  • Look at labels. Whole Foods Market offers 365 Everyday Value® organic offerings to provide shoppers with high quality organic products at everyday value prices. Look for the USDA certified seal and save.
  • Look to the freezer for savings when produce is out of season— frozen fruits and veggies found at Whole Foods Market are picked at the peak of freshness and frozen.
  • Shopping seasonally in the produce department is a great saving strategy. When many fruits and vegetables reach their peak harvest time, the costs often drop due to increased availability. This week, from Jan. 13–19, Organic Lady Alice apples are on sale for $1.99 per pound.

Stay tuned! I will be featuring healthier eating with Whole Foods Market next week! 

Credit: Courtesy of Whole Foods market.