Sunday January 9, 2011

Sunnyside Preschool Open in Sherman Oaks
Sunnyside’s unique approach to play-based developmental programs encourages curiosity, imagination, and social skills. The teachers inspire a love for learning that fosters the social, emotional, physical, creative, and cognitive growth of each child. As the children extend play beyond themselves, they learn what it means to be part of a group and to share their world with others. Activities include art, community garden, woodworking, yoga, music, and Spanish. Child to teacher ratio is 6:1. Hours are 9 am to 3 pm (8:30 am early drop off and enrichment classes to 5pm). For more info or to take a tour, call 818-785-8574.
14125 Burbank Blvd. in Sherman Oaks

Today in History
http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/columbus-mistakes-manatees-for-mermaids

Great Deal on Neighborhood Italian Restaurant in Tarzana
Voomerang sent over a really nice coupon link for $50 worth of food and drinks for only $25 at La Finestra Trattoria on Ventura Blvd.  The reviews look great (4 stars on Open Table), and they threw in an extra kicker for Jen’s List readers – use the coupon code JENSJAN and you save an extra 15%. So if you already go there, you get to save big on your next lunch or dinner, and if you haven’t been yet, they’re practically paying you to check it out.
www.Voomerang.com

Discover the Arts in LA
Up to 50% off at over 30 of LA’s best Cultural Attractions
http://www.discoverlosangeles.com/thearts/

The Movement to Restore Children’s Play Gains Momentum
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/06/garden/06play.html

HITTING ZONE – INDOOR BATTING CAGES & PROSHOP
Baseball Season is here!  Get your kids ready in our indoor facility. Walk-in hitters are welcome and can buy tokens for $3 or 10 tokens for $20.  Our instructors are all former professional baseball players with expertise in hitting, pitching & fielding. The pro shop is equipped with all your baseball needs from gloves, bats & cleats to protective gear.  Mention Jen’s List and receive $5.00 off any purchase of $20.
31285 Via Colinas in Westlake Village
(818) 707-9663
WWW.Hittingzone1.com

7 foods that should never cross your lips
http://www.prevention.com/7foodsthatshouldnever/index.shtml

“The Little Mermaid” Splashes into Hollywood’s Legendary El Capitan Theatre
An exclusive theatrical engagement will run from January 21st through February 10th.  A special live appearance by Ariel is also featured at every performance.  The El Capitan Theatre will also host a special “Tiny Tot Tuesday” on Tuesday, January 25, at 10:45 a.m. only. During this special screening of “The Little Mermaid” parents and small children can enjoy the movie in a “Tiny Tot” friendly way – complete with lights dimmed rather than out and reduced sound levels.  “The Little Mermaid” was Disney’s first new fairy tale adaptation in 30 years at the time of its initial release in 1989.  With its acclaimed song score by lyricist Howard Ashman and composer Alan Menken, the film set a new high water mark for contemporary film musicals and helped to launch a new era of Disney animated classics. The film went on to win two Academy Awards – for Best Song (“Under the Sea”) and Best Original Score (by Alan Menken) – and received a third nomination for the song “Kiss the Girl.” Daily showtimes are 10:45 a.m., 2:00 p.m., 4:45 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now, and available at the El Capitan Theatre (6838 Hollywood Blvd.), online at www.elcapitantickets.com, or by calling 1-800-DISNEY6. Special group rates for parties of 20 or more are available by calling (818) 845-3110. Showtimes subject to change.
www.losangeles.broadwayworld.com/article/

Need Help Keeping Your Family’s 2011 Resolutions?
Often making the resolution itself is easier than making the change. Here are some tried and tested solutions to keeping the most common family-friendly healthy new year’s resolutions. 
http://forums.webmd.com/3/parenting-exchange/forum/2951

Mocked as Uncool, the Minivan Rises Again
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/04/business/04minivan.html

Spice Up Your Next Holiday Party with Henna Tattoos
With more than 300 designs to choose from, everyone is sure to love this beautiful body art.  For kids, for teens, for adults – perfect for all ages.  Prices start at $10 per tattoo for special events and parties.  Party special offer: two (2) free tattoos with a party of 10 or more. Hourly rates available. Holiday specials ..call for details (Note: Henna is temporary, lasts only for 1 to 2 weeks.) Gratuities are not included! Call 661-878-5726, 678-677-3039 or email rozminh@hotmail.com.

Magazine names most innovative products of 2010
http://m.apnews.com/ap/db_9331/

The Pod Photography’s January photo set is up!
This month’s Goodnight Moon set is a soft and dreamy trip to the clouds. Sessions are just $50 and include a 5×7 print and online viewing gallery – so celebrate the new year with fresh photos of your little ones! Visit http://thepodphoto.wordpress.com/2011/01/01/the-january-seasonal-set/ to view the set.
(310) 399-0878
1219 Abbot Kinney Blvd. in Venice, 90291
http://www.thepodphoto.com

Miss Debbie and Mr. Blue Oven Mitt Live!
Deborah Ellen is a professional singer/songwriter with credits in film and television.  She has created a delightful album and show for children entitled Mr. Blue Oven Mitt (see www.mrblueovenmitt.com). Miss Debbie and Mr. Blue Oven Mitt will be performing a concert to benefit the Simi Valley Hospital’s Child Development Center at 11:00 a.m. on January 22nd at The Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center, 3050 E. Los Angeles Avenue, Simi Valley. Call the box office at (805) 583-7900 to purchase you tickets now! Tickets are $10 with $5 of each ticket sale going directly to the charity. This show is perfect for kids ages 3-6!

The Nik Picker – Your “Licesaver”
There’s a new head lice removal business in the West Hills area! Nikki’s goal in starting this business was to offer an affordable, effective, and chemical-free head lice removal service. Having 3 girls, and a limited budget, she knows what it is like to run to the store and buy the OTC lice removal only to find, $100 later, that it is still there! With frustration mounting, the lice spreading, she succumbed to the lice removal services making a huge dent in our budget. It was gone – finally – but so was a huge chunk of change. That’s when the light bulb went off – affordable, effective and chemical-free  Head Lice Removal Service – hence, The Nik Picker!
Don’t panic-call or email Nikki.  To make an appointment call (818) 618-9698, or email thenikpicker@gmail.com. With every initial comb thru, $5.00 will be donated to your child’s school. No names will be disclosed.
www.thenikpicker.com

Allergy shots for kids?  Yes.
http://www.weather.com/activities/health/allergies/kids/

Blast Off Your New Year and Get “Organized” with Tracy Katzer and Organized to a “T”
Create organized systems in your office, home and home offices – File Cabinets / Create Filing Systems – Office Supply Areas – Closets – Garages – Kitchens/Pantries – Baby Rooms – Children’s Rooms – Storage Units – Mud Rooms – Laundry Rooms / Mud Rooms – Homes under construction – Organize a Move: Packing/Moving /Unpacking – Photographs / Photo albums – Tax Preparation – Pay your bills….light bookkeeping.
Cut out the clutter! – Create a new organized you! Purchase 5 hours and get one hour free. $60/hour
(310) 502-0367

Daytrippingmom
A fun and upbeat blog focusing on family friendly outings, activities, day trips, events and getaways in Southern California.
http://daytrippingmom.com/

Endermologie Reduces Cellulite & Provides a Great Lympathetic Flush
Body Care Professionals is offering a series of 14 body contouring sessions that helps reduce cellulite, creates a great lymphatic flush and conditions the skin as well as relaxes the body and soul. Call for a free consultation and enjoy the benefits others have enjoyed for years…If you’ve ever considered liposuction you will want to try this first. Ask for Robin
(818) 518-7004
www.cellulitepro.com

Thai Yoga Therapy workshop – ‘What’s the Yoga in Thai Yoga Therapy?’
Sunday 1/23 from 2-5 pm
In three hours, Paula and Kineret intend to connect, teach, share joy, loving-kindness, celebrate, inspire, help facilitate relaxation and well-being through Thai yoga Therapy. They will introduce the history, the energy aspect, the touch, the stances for the giver, the feedback process, the yoga poses, the benefits, and the connection with self, partner, and spirituality. The cost is $30 per person if reserved by January 16th and $35 per person if reserved afterwards. Space is limited. Bring comfortable clothes (work-out clothes). Pay online at www.conejoyogamassage.com.
Yoga Upstairs in Agoura Hills
818-304-5192

m’swimmers
Summer is over, but it’s not too late to learn how to swim. Want to ensure water safety on your next vacation? Looking for a fun way to get in shape before the holidays? Mira teaches private swim lessons directed to your specific needs at any pool of your choice. She has over 10 years of experience with all ages & skill levels. She is certified in first aid, AED, lifeguard, WSI, pool op, and as an EMT. She has a BS in neuropsychology is studying toward her MDt. Email mirabreitstein@gmail.com with any questions.

Citrus Cinnamon Butter
Easy.  Have it as a treat on morning toast.
http://www.pallensmith.com/food-and-recipes/recipes?recipe=664

BUST IT BOOTCAMP By Fit Happens L.A.
GET INTO THE BEST SHAPE OF YOUR LIFE- RIGHT NOW! Check out the hottest way to get fit- burn 400-600 calories PER CLASS. 4 days a week for 4 weeks. (Other days/options also available.) Geared specifically to Mommies & Daddies! Everything from Plyometrics to Kickboxing to Drills. New sessions starting NOW, although you can begin ANYTIME! Classes in BURBANK*, SILVERLAKE*, SHERMAN OAKS, MT. WASHINGTON*, AGOURA HILLS & STUDIO CITY*. (*= Offers CHILDCARE for a small fee. NOW what’s your excuse?!) Call or e-mail for days & times. Wanna work out for FREE? Get a crew of 6+ of your pals together we’ll come to you and your session is FREE! Time slots FILL UP FAST- WHY “WEIGHT”? (Also now on Facebook under “BUST It BOOTCAMP by Fit Happens L.A.”)
www.fithappensla.com
http://www.yelp.com/biz/fit-happens-burbank
(818)563-4704

Autism Movie Screening at Outside the Box
Monday, Jan 31st at 7:00 p.m.
Educational “movie night” has come to OTB! The year 2011 is OTB’s year to “step-up” their commitment to educate the parents, as well as the children within (and outside) the program. One attempt they will make monthly, is to offer quality, diverse, “thinking-type” documentaries at the Center, for your viewing pleasure (and knowledge). The first screening will be “The Horse Boy”. “The Horse Boy” is a real and raw look at how Autism has impacted a family in Texas and the extremes they went to to find answers when Western Medicine could no longer help. Deciding to travel to Mongolia and explore alternative therapies, this documentary shows what one family went through to help heal themselves and their boy.  This documentary provokes compassion and is not only beneficial to parents of children who are diagnosed with autism. For more information on the movie, visit www.horseboymovie.com/. Autism rates in the US continue to increase, with no explanation and no “cure”. Expert/Guest Speaker, Dr. Gary Erkfritz from the Brain Balance Center in Westlake Village will be on hand to answer questions after the movie for those interested in staying and learning more. This is a free event for OTB members. Non-OTB Members, the fee is a donation of choice. To attend email registration@otbee.com or call (818) 348-PLAY. 
22011 Avenue San Luis in Woodland Hills

Cheer up and relax.
You Can do this. By a mom of 6. 
http://www.ehow.com/how_5053947_cheer-up-relax.html

KID friendly Bootcamp starting in Pan Pacific park soon!
Make 2011 the year to reach your fitness goals! Workouts include:
BOOTY LIFT
CORE SYNERGY
FAT BURNING
NRG kickboxing
Rsvp to charles@workyourcore.com
www.bootcamp4moms.com

Make your edible garden a feast for the eyes
The wonderful diversity of ornamental edibles can provide a beautiful garden.
http://blog.oregonlive.com/homesandgardens/2011/01/

Kehillat Israel Early Childhood Center
Dangerous or Safe for Your Kids? Which Foods, Medicines, and Chemicals Really Put Your Kids At Risk? Cara Natterson, MD will be speaking at Kehillat Israel on Thursday, January 13, 2011 at 7pm $10 advance/$15 at the door call 310-459-7539 to register or contact via email dena.kaplan@kehillatisrael.org for more information
www.kehillatisrael.org/education_ecc.php

Interior and Exterior Painter Lead
Referred by Jens List member lizzie_brenkus@mac.com
“I’ve used Steve exclusively for the last three years because of his free estimates, competitive prices, punctuality, cleanliness, flexibility, and most importantly, impeccable work. He and his crew are fantastic and they can do anything! I’ve personally had them paint room interiors, do interior touch-ups, water damage repair and painting, full exterior home painting and woodwork.”
www.stevejohnsonpainting.com

Sing in the New Year with MUSIC TOGETHER!
A new 10-Week session of the internationally beloved Music Together® program begins Jan. 10th.  We believe all children are born musical and our program is designed to nurture a child’s natural enthusiasm for music and movement.  We offer fun, mixed-age classes for children newborn to 4 years at:
Dance Dimensions ~ Woodland Hills
Degas Dance ~ Encino
Baxter-Northrup Music ~ Sherman Oaks
Center Stage Dance ~ Studio City
Leo Baeck Temple ~ Brentwood
Play It Again! ~ Westwood
Sign up today at www.SunshineMusic.org or call (310) 482-7222 for more info.

THE FRIENDLY MATH TUTOR
Sherry has 18 years Math Tutoring experience, and her students love her! She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics from UCLA. Sherry tutors grades 6-12 and college level in the Woodland Hills area. With patience and a gift for teaching, she specializes in Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2. Sessions in your home. She has stellar references from El Camino & Hale Middle School parents. Call (805) 660-9195 or email spiritwrks@aol.com.

Educational Games that Let you Play with your Food!
www.foodfun.org

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A HOME BASED BUSINESS?
Want to supplement your income? Full or Part time? Would you like to be part of a 25 year old billion dollar company? Operates in 50 countries, publicly traded, financially solid. Has been in Forbes magazine as the most trustworthy company. It has broken record sales in this economy! It also has a big heart, we have served over 200 million meals to malnourished children around the world! Contact Sandra at sansel007@gmail.com / 818-219-4472.

Circus INcognitus
Young kids will love Circus INcognitus, featuring Jamie Adkins – known as a one-man circus. A veteran of both Cirque du Soleil and Montréal’s Cirque Éloize, Adkins fuses clowning, juggling, balancing and acrobats into what the New York Times calls “infinitesimal acts of imperceptible genius.” Running for six performances only at the Kirk Douglas Theatre, Circus INcognitus is pure fun and wonder – a perfect show for young audiences.  Tickets for “Circus INcognitus” are $20. The tickets are available by calling (213) 628-2772 or online at www.CenterTheatreGroup.org.
http://losangeles.broadwayworld.com/article/

Do you want to expand your little one’s palate!?
uma Organic is now teaching kids cooking classes, right in your own home! If you can get a group of five or more kids (between the ages of 5-7 years) together at your house, they will come packed with fun, creative, delicious ideas for them to discover! This is a four week program, so these kids would need to be committed to cooking! Classes run 1 1/2 hours – and we can pick the day and time that makes sense for everyone! Past classes have included Breakfast For Dinner (PJ’s of course!), Sushi Roll Party, South of the Border, Pasta Extravaganza and MORE! If you are interested in a ONE day 2 hour class after school, that is also available! Please visit www.zumaorganic.com and search the word “kids” – for more info!  Zuma Organic also still provides cooking classes for adults too.

Social Media is time consuming and confusing but it’s my passion!
Every business no matter how large or small wants a presence on Facebook, blogs and Twitter. As a Social Media Manager, Liz creates quality content, market, and brand your business through various social media sites. She can set up and run these accounts for you. She will reach out to the influencers in your niche, with honest, sincere, communication. Liz will connect your business with customers who are passionate about your brand. Reasonable rates! Email liz.socialmediadarling@gmail.com for more info.