LEGOLAND California Celebrates 20th LEGO Tree Lighting Ceremony

Legoland Tree lighting ceremony on Friday, November 18, 2022.(Photo by Sandy Huffaker/Legoland

LEGOLAND California Celebrates 20th LEGO Tree Lighting Ceremony

And the countdown begins for Christmas!

Last week, Josh Peck and starof Hallmark Channel’s ‘Countdown to Christmas’ new original movie, “Inventing the Christmas Prince, helped Santa pull the switch to light the LEGO Christmas tree during the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony officially kicking off Holidays at LEGOLAND California!

This year marks LEGOLAND’S 20th LEGO tree lighting anniversary and were thrilled to launch the season with the family!

Disclosure: Thank you LEGOLAND California for hosting us. All opinions are my own.

At the ceremony, LEGOLAND California Resort donated $10,000 on Peck’s behalf to MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach.

Hallmark Channel donated $10,000 on Mowry-Housley’s behalf to Make-A-Wish. Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital is a non-profit, pediatric and maternity teaching hospital in Long Beach that treats more than 8,000 children each year, delivers more than 5,500 babies and has become a regional pediatric destination for more than 84,000 children who need specialized care in outpatient specialty and satellite centers. Make-A-Wish is a non-profit organization that grants life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. A wish can be that spark that helps these children believe that anything is possible and gives them strength to fight harder against their illnesses. LEGOLAND and Mowry-Housley have both been longtime supporters of Make-A-Wish

We LOVE LEGOLAND this time of the year. There is just so much to do!

  • Your favorite holiday characters, Santa and the Toy Soldier, are back along with the Gingerbread Man! They’re ready for holiday hugs, pictures, and selfies.
  • Head over to Fun Town where there’s a 30-foot, fully decorated, LEGO® Christmas tree with over 400 LEGO ornaments. And as the day winds down, the tree gets a-twinklin to holiday tunes at the Holiday Light Show featuring falling “snow”. 
  • Need more pictures? Hop on a sleigh with a life-size LEGO Santa that’s pulled by his trusted reindeer. Along with the holiday fun, food and live music, there are more than 60 rides, shows and attractions at LEGOLAND California Resort. 
  • Check out our delightfully dazzling holiday shows, Santa approved of course, throughout the park all season long! Also, why not try some holly jolly themed food and drinks too?
  • Combine the two for an unforgettable holiday experience!
  • There is so much to do, you’ll want to spend the night at one of the two LEGOLAND Hotels located right at the main entrance. 

What a joyful way to enjoy the holiday season! We enjoyed the park rides, holiday decorations, entertainment, and created amazing memories with the family. You should too! Get your tickets here.

Happy Holidays!

ADDRESS:

LEGOLAND California Resort 1 Legoland Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008

San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden Nature Lights Exhibit Now Open

San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden Nature Lights Exhibit Now Open

Written by: Victoria Camacho

Last week, we made our way to San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden to experience “Nature Nights.” This remarkable exhibit is on display now through January 8, 2022.

This magical interactive experience has been curated by a group of sensational artists including: Bryn Forbes, illuminated sculptures byMichael Reddell, and artistic lighting of garden areas by Kody Cava throughout the eight-acre
portion of the 150-acre Garden.

Hosted: Thank you San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden for inviting Queen Bee Latina to experience Nature lights. All opinions are my own.

About

The exhibition features enthralling moving digital imagery captured by artist Bryn Forbes,
projected upon the garden’s hillsides and the surrounding buildings and artifacts, creating an
experience like no other. Michael Reddell’s illuminated wire sculptures adds to the festivities
by capturing the essence of humanity. Artistic lighting of the garden areas is strategically
crafted by celebrated artist Kody Cava.

Photo credit to SLO Botanical Garden

We truly felt transported into a magical land, and for a moment we forgot about our troubles. The artists have created something unique and special for the public to enjoy. I highly recommend visiting with the entire family.

Additionally, there will be a variety of culinary delights, regional wine, and beer available for enjoyment.

Photo credit to SLO Botanical Garden

The children section of the exhibit was artistically orchestrated with lights and detailed with a special area for meditation. There is also a wonderful, “Make a Wish Tree.”

Photo credit to SLO Botanical Garden

About San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden


The San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden is a non-profit organization that showcases plants from
Mediterranean climates throughout the world. Through its programs and facilities, the Garden
fosters an appreciation and understanding of the relationship between people and nature and
encourages a sense of stewardship for the natural environment. The Garden is located at 3450
Dairy Creek Rd., within El Chorro Regional Park off Highway 1 between Morro Bay and San Luis
Obispo. Admission is $10 per person and free for both children 12 and under and Garden
Members. To learn more visit slobg.org.

Photo credit to SLO Botanical Garden

Dates and Ticket Prices:

DATES:

Friday, November 11, 2022 – Sunday, January 8, 2023
Thursday – Sunday Evenings (4 nights per week / 9 weeks)

5:00PM – 8:00PM
TICKETS:

(3) timed ticket options: 5PM, 6PM & 7PM

ADULTS: $19.75 + fees , CHILDREN (12 & under): $14.75 + fees, TODDLERS (2 & under): FREE

*Members receive $2.00 discount per ticket

Photo credit to SLO Botanical Garden

Address:

SLO Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405.

For further details, please visit www.slobg.org or call (805) 541-1400.

Thank you SLO Botanical Gardens for hosting us!

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Representing Communities of Color

This week, we got an early sneak peak of Black Panther: Wakanda forever. This all-new Marvel film will undoubtedly flood theaters today, because there is so much to look forward to.

After the tragic passing of Chadwick Boseman, there was much speculation as to how the saga continue. To my pleasant surprise, the film adapted a new storyline that is creating a huge buzz among Marvel enthusiasts, and people of color. The Latinx community is overjoyed with the implementation of Namor (Tenoch Huerta), and the Mayan culture.


Watch the trailer here.

There were many emotions surrounding the death of both T”Challah and Boseman, (he has two Screen Actors Guild Awards, a Golden Globe Award, a Critics’ Choice Movie Award, and a Primetime Emmy Award, among other accolades).

Synopsis:

Queen Ramonda, Shuri, M’Baku, Okoye and the Dora Milaje fight to protect their nation from intervening world powers in the wake of King T’Challa’s death. As the Wakandans strive to embrace their next chapter, the heroes must band together with Nakia and Everett Ross to forge a new path for their beloved kingdom.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever takes viewers on an action packed adventure. It gives us a closer look at the Mayan indigenous culture in the Marvel World.

Are these two powerful forces friends or foe? There are so many unexpected twists and turns that you don’t want to miss!. Go see it in theaters today!

Lila Downs Returning to Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall November 8th

Lila Downs Returning to Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall November 8th

Lila Downs will be performing at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall for one night only on November 8, 2022. You don’t want to miss this rich cultural event in Costa Mesa.

Down sings ballads about the pain of love loss, death, and she written unique compositions on social injustice. Her music is moving and extraordinary.

Known as one of Mexico’s greatest singers and cultural ambassadors, the multi-Grammy Award®- winning Mexican-American singer returns to Segerstrom Center with her new show, a celebration of music, dance and ritual.

Downs is one of the most powerful and unique voices that exist today. Downs’ music reflects the cultures of Oaxaca, Mexico, and the U.S., in which she grew up. She sings in Spanish and English, sometimes incorporating indigenous Mixtec, Zapotec and Maya. With a symbolic stage presence and emotional storytelling through song, her singing transcends all language barriers.


Disclosure: I have partnered with Segerstrom Center for this Arts for this post.

Tickets to show start at $42.00

Born and raised in both Oaxaca and Minnesota, Lila Downs is the daughter of a Mixtec Indigenous woman and Anglo-American father.

She has written narratives of Indigenous resistance protecting the original vision of the sacred plants and food of her Oaxacan culture while keeping the traditions of the American continent. A passionate human rights activist, Lila Downs’s lyrics often reflect stories of social injustice and the experiences within the suppressed Latin American stories of women of indigenous and working-class origins.

Ticket Services

Phone: Mon-Fri 10 am to 5 pm 
(714) 556-2787 

Box Office: Monday: 10am to 2pm
Tuesday–Friday: 12pm to 5pm
Saturday and Sunday: Closed

Abominable and the Invisible City NOW on Hulu

Abominable and the Invisible City Now on Hulu

Last week, we hit the Dreamworks campus in Glendale, California to celebrate the release Abominable and the Invisible City. This comedic adventure series is NOW streaming on Hulu! This new magical series is based on the beloved motion picture. Yi, Jin, and Peng are on an adventure to help magical creatures!

This adorable series is great for the entire family…

Thank you Dreamworks TV for inviting us to celebrate Abominable and the Invisible City. All opinions are my own.

 Synopsis:

Through Everest, the yeti, Yi, Jin, and Peng know that there’s a whole magical world out there, and now it’s even closer than they think!

When they discover that their surroundings are teeming with magical creatures in need of their help, the kids will set out on extraordinary and heartfelt adventures throughout their city and beyond.

Watch the trailer here.

We enjoyed yummy themed treats and a took a sneak peek at the new series!

Stream this fun series today!

UNIVRS Character-Inspired Merch Now Open at Universal CityWalk Hollywood

Character-Inspired Merch Now Open at Universal CityWalk Hollywood


Amigos! Where are all my classic film enthusiasts?

Every time I watch classic movies like Jaws, ET. Shrek and others, I can’t help but to feel a little nostalgic. Now you can take home incredible memorabilia from your favorite films, because UNIVRS – A New Retail Destination with Limited-Edition merch is NOW OPEN!

The exclusive location embraces drop culture with merchandise inspired by Jurassic Park, E.T., JAWS, Universal Monsters, Felix the Cat and more for entertainment and fashion tastemakers.

A new, first-of-its-kind retail destination is now open at Universal CityWalk Hollywood.

This brick-and-mortar store brings favorite brands from across NBCUniversal to life in a unique shopping destination that leans into the “get it before it’s gone” drop culture shopping mentality.

Open in time for Halloween Horror Nights and seasonal holiday celebrations at Universal Studios Hollywood, UNIVRS is open 7 days a week. Check it out!

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile: Exclusive Interview with Directors Will Speck & Josh Gordon

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile: Exclusive Interview with Directors Will Speck and Josh Gordon

Last month, we got an early look at Lyle, Lye, Crocodile at Sony Studios in Los Angeles California. We also spoke to directors Will Speck & Josh Gordon to talk about the upcoming CGI film.

I can’t begin to tell you how excited about this film! Sony gave us a special preview of the unedited version of the movie. It was fascinating to see the film in its early stages, and how it all comes together. I now have a greater appreciation for the creators and all the rigorous work that goes behind the scenes.

Listen to the full interview here.

The all-star cast is sensational and full of surprises. Stay tuned, as I will be sharing as all the latest unfolds!

Watch the official Trailer here.

Synopsis:

When the Primm family moves to New York City, their young son, Josh, struggles to adapt to his new school and friends. All of that changes when he discovers Lyle, a singing crocodile that loves baths, caviar and great music. The two become fast friends, but when evil neighbor Mr. Grumps threatens Lyle’s existence, the Primms must band together to show the world that family can come from the most unexpected places.

Watch Lyle, Lye, Crocodile in theaters this fall!

L.A. Times Food Bowl: Night Market September 23-25


NIGHT MARKET IS HERE:

L.A. Times Food Bowl

The Night Market is 3 nights from September 23-25 and will feature all-inclusive food and drink tastings, cooking and mixology demonstrations, wine seminars and more from the world-class culinary artists behind 50 of the city’s top restaurants. Some notable names that will be there include the below:

Matty Matheson, From FX “The Bear”

Alvin Cailan, From First We Feast “The Burger Show”

Duff Goldman, From Food Network “Ace of Cakes”

Embark on one, two or even three days of food adventure at this three day weekend event by the L.A. Times Food section showcasing the city’s top restaurants. Each event ticket ($185 GA, $260 VIP) secures unlimited food and drink, plus access to all live cooking demonstrations. Notable planned appearances include Duff Goldman of Ace of Cakes and L.A.

barbecue legend Kevin Bludso.

Each night’s theme and participants are as follows:

Friday, September 23rd: Smoked Soirée

Participating restaurants: Kogi, Irv’s Burgers, Moo’s Craft BBQ, RiceBox, SLAB, The Bad Jew, Highly Likely, Valerie Confections and more

Live performances: BBQ demo yKevin Bludso, Italian beef demo by The Bear’s Matty Metheson & YouTube chef Coco, Burger Battle by Mr Beast Burger’s Eric Greenspan & Amboy’s Alvin Cailan

Saturday, September 24th: Saturday Night Flavor

Participating restaurants: CHD Mandu, Go Go Gyoza, Hui Tou Xiang, Lunasia Dim Sum House, Monta Factory, and more

Live performances: Thai cooking demo by Food Network’s Jet Tila, dumpling showdown hosted by Times Food’s Jenn Harris

Sunday, September 25th: Backlot Brunch

Participating restaurants: TBA

Live performances: Baking demo by Ace of Cakes’s Duff Goldman

Herbalife Nutrition Continues LA Galaxy Sponsorship Making History

Herbalife Nutrition Continues LA Galaxy Sponsorship Making History

It’s official…

Herbalife 🌿 Nutrition will continue as the official presenting partner and jersey partner of the LA Galaxy!

Yesterday, my family attended the official press conference to hear this historic news in Carson, California.

Sports performance staff, executives from the LA Galaxy and Herbalife Nutrition, were among the attendees. Guests also enjoyed Herbalife Nutrition LA Galaxy special edition shakes.

Thank you Herbalife Nutrition for partnering on this post. All opinions are my own.

Herbalife Nutrition has been a staple sponsor on the LA Galaxy jerseys for 15 years!

The extension includes brand-tailored activations, unique fan engagement opportunities, and new community outreach initiatives. This year marks the fifteenth consecutive year of Herbalife Nutrition’s record jersey partnership with the club, making the deal the single longest-running jersey sponsorship in MLS history!

Our very own correspondent Drew, spoke to Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez, LA Galaxy Captain, Center Forward to talk about this continued sponsorship.

Watch our coverage here.

We also spoke to Ibi Montesino, Executive Vice President, Distributor & Customer Experience and Chief of Staff, Herbalife Nutrition, Chris Klein, President of LA Galaxy. There general consensus was positive and promising among the Herbalife and LA Galaxy execs.

Joe Tutino introduced the panelists.

He has been the radio play-by-play voice of the Galaxy since 1996.

LA Galaxy and Herbalife Nutrition are extending their partnership in a multi-year, multi-million-dollar renewal agreement.

With the new agreement, Herbalife Nutrition will continue as the LA Galaxy’s presenting, jersey, and exclusive nutrition partner. Additionally, Herbalife Nutrition will be an official nutrition lifestyle partner, and Proactive Fueled by Herbalife Nutrition, a state-of-the-art performance facility, will be available to the team during their preseason for training and sports performance testing.

Also in attendance:

  • Julian Araujo, LA Galaxy Defender
  • Mark Delgado, LA Galaxy Midfielder
  • Johnathon Bond, LA Galaxy Goal keeper

Herbalife Nutrition and LA Galaxy will execute surprise activations.

Cheers to the continued partnership! We were thrilled to be part of the celebration and look forward to attending more LA Galaxy games with our kids. And of course, wearing our cool jerseys…

Common Questions:

Do LA Galaxy players use Herbalife Nutrition products?

Yes, in fact nutritionists work closely with the team’s athletes to identify their specific nutrition needs and as they balance rigorous game schedules and physically challenging practice sessions to reach peak performance on game days.

Is LA Galaxy sponsored by Herbalife Nutrition?

Yes, they are and will continue to be their official nutrition partner.

How long has Herbalife Nutrition sponsored LA Galaxy?

Herbalife Nutrition has sponsored the LA Galaxy’s jersey for fifteen consecutive years, making this the longest-running jersey sponsorship in MLS history.

New Show: Hamster and Gretel Now On the Disney Channel

New Show: Hamster and Gretel Now On the Disney Channel

Where are my Phineas and Ferb fans?

My kids were HUGE fans growing up, and now there is a NEW show hitting the Disney Channel you don’t want to miss.

Creator Dan Povenmire has a NEW animated series called, Hamster and Gretel! This new show will premiered on August 12th!

Thank you Disney Channel for giving us an early screening of Hamster and Gretel. All opinions are my own.

Watch the official trailer here!

We also learned how to draw Hamster with Dan. this was such an incredible experience for the kids. Parents learned how to draw too!

My daughter Clarissa could not attend this special screening because she had to get ready to prepare to move into her college dorm, but Dan had a special message for her. Check it out here!

Dan’s daughter, Meli Povenmire stars as Gretel and she is brilliant in the new series. She signed autographs for the kiddos and also participated in the Q&A.

Is Hamster and Gretel connected to Phineas and Ferb?

Yes! The series is set in the same universe as Phineas and Ferb and Milo Murphy’s Law, with characters from both shows making cameos throughout Hamster and Gretel (though Povenmire noted there were no plans for a formal crossover in the series).

My niece and I got an early sneak peek of the show at Disney Studios and LOVED it. It is full of adventure and belly laughs for both kids and parents!

Synopsis:

The co-creator of Phineas and Ferb, Dan Povenmire brings you Hamster & Gretel. Grant-Gomez, and her pet hamster, “Hamster”, are given superpowers by aliens and the big responsibility of being “heroes on Earth”! Gretel’s teen brother, Kevin, on the other hand, was overlooked by the aliens, and is stuck being “superhero adjacent”. However, he is often the brains behind each mission! Now, Hamster & Gretel must save the world from one supervillain after another, all while keeping their identities a secret!

Will Disney Hamster and Gretel be on Plus?

YES! Disney has announced that the first five episodes from the new Disney Channel series, “Hamster & Gretel”, will be coming to Disney+ on Wednesday, 17th August 2022. 

HAMSTER & GRETEL – “Empower Failure / Oakey Dokey” (Disney) HAMSTER

BIG thank you to  Disney Channel & Kristin Cruz for hosting us. It was a memorable day. We had a blast!

WATCH:  Series Premiere on Disney Channel and Disney XD
Hamster & Gretel “Empower Failure/Oakey Dokey”
(9:35-10:00 p.m. EDT on Disney Channel/10:00-10:30 p.m. EDT on Disney XD)
“Empower Failure” – Hamster and Gretel get superpowers from aliens while Kevin grapples with being “superhero adjacent.”