Monday November 15, 2010

PAYING TOO MUCH FOR INSURANCE?
Call Delcourt Insurance. Auto, Home, Business, Life, Health.
For a limited time, they are offering $25 off for each new policy purchased

and $25 for each new client referral who purchases a policy from them. CA only.
Contact Barry at (818) 347-7800 for more information.
Mercury, Hartford, Safeco, Travelers & other fine carriers.
www.Delcourtinsurance.com

Today in History
– The Continental Congress approves the Articles of Confederation. (1777)
– National clean your refrigerator out day
– I love to write day
– National bundt pan day
http://www.kids-list.com/Blog.aspx?blog=223

Play and Grow Smart-er Tips
Nancy Pyne-Hapke, author of ‘Play and Grow Smart, A Guide Supporting Brain Development, Birth through Five’ has been giving tips to aid your child’s optimum skill development through proactive neuroscience-based activities every Monday.  These ideas come from scholarly sources to personal interviews, from the internet to periodicals to books.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENTAL SKILL DEFINITION: bonding, building relationships, appreciating differences, self-esteem, self-expression, responsibility, self-reliance, resourcefulness.
THE CRITICAL WINDOW during which the circuits of the brain are being most heavily wired for SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL: STRESS RESPONSE development is birth to about 3 years. The more opportunity children have for positive social-emotional experiences during this critical period, the more efficiently their brains will work over the long run.
More SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL: STRESS RESPONSE tidbits:
YOUR CHILD is likely to mirror desirable behaviors when she sees the desirable behaviors of adults around her.  If she sees patience in adults looking for solutions to problems, she will see that learning is a process with many steps.
TELL YOUR CHILD WHAT to do rather than what NOT to do. This encourages a more positive outlook on life.  Tell him how WELL he’s doing when he’s doing what you WANT him to do.
FOR INSTANCE, when he covers his mouth when he coughs, say, “I’m glad you covered your mouth when you coughed.”  Remember to praise the action – “Good listening!”  “Good job!”  “Good remembering!” – rather than praising the child. Children, and sometimes even adults, are LITERAL and relate to patterns of behavior – if you say “Good boy!” sometimes and not other times, he’ll think he’s been a bad boy when you don’t say “Good boy!” even though that’s not what you mean!
LOUD VOICES/HITTING don’t model what the child SHOULD do. If you yell to communicate, your child may also yell to communicate (ever watch the out-of-control people on the “nanny” tv shows?). If you use soft warm touches, he will, too.
Next week – “SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL: STRESS RESPONSE” Pt. 3.  Any ?s – email msmarm@roadrunner.com

$15 for Two Weeks of Dance Classes for Up to 4 Kids at Degas Dance Studio ($350 Value)
Degas Dance Studio is dedicated to instructing and inspiring ALL kids (and adults) to love the art of dance.  Boys and girls, toddlers in tutus and teens with tap shoes – anyone and everyone can discover a love of dance.  That’s why they have created this opportunity – 2 weeks where all the kids in the family (up to 4 kids) can take as many classes as they like to try and discover exactly what moves them.  Each child can take a class a day (during the upcoming winter holiday break they can take several classes a day!) until they find a perfect fit.  There are classes for kids ages 3 on up including jazz, ballet, tap, hip-hop, contemporary, lyrical, cultural and exercise.  So come find out who the dancer is in your family!  You just might be surprised…
http://www.familyfinds.com/jenslist

YO GABBA GABBA! LIVE: THERE’S A PARTY IN MY CITY is coming to Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE
November 26th and 27th
DUE TO OVERWHELMING DEMAND, A 5TH AND FINAL SHOW HAS BEEN ADDED AT 11AM ON SATURDAY MORNING in addition to the original 2 shows each day at 2pm and 5pm. Based on the hit children’s program, Yo Gabba Gabba!, this live event for families features DJ Lance Rock and everyone’s favorite cast of characters- Brobee (the little green one), Foofa (the pink flower bubble), Muno (the red Cyclops), Plex (the magic robot) and Toodee (the blue cat-dragon).  The high energy show includes music, animation, games, singing and dancing. Special guests will rock their favorite ‘Dancey Dance’ moves and join the party on stage for the Super Music Friends Show. Legendary rapper Biz Markie will also be on hand teaching kids to beat box with Biz’s Beat of the Day. Tickets on sale Friday at 10am for just added 11am show and NOW for all others at Ticketmaster and WWW.YOGABBAGABBALIVE.COM.

CASTING CALL FOR JAMIE OLIVER’S FOOD REVOLUTION
Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution Season 2 has arrived in Los Angeles and they want to hear from you! They are searching for families with children who could use Jamie’s help in the kitchen to overcome the obstacles to healthy eating. Think you don’t have the time or skills to cook for your kids? Are you a family that’s always on the go and ends up eating fast food? Does shopping and cooking every night seem overwhelming? Jamie wants to help families in LA area be healthy and less stressed about food. Start your food revolution today by contacting jamieoliversfoodrevolution2@gmail.com.

Come Join the Party! Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate!
At the STAPLES Center (12/15-12/19)
Honda Center (12/21-12/26)
Citizens Business Bank Arena (12/29-1/2)
Long Beach Arena (1/5-1/9).
Special Jen’s List Discount – 4 tickets for $48 on select shows
Use code MOM by phone at 1-800-745-3000 or online at Ticketmaster.com to redeem your savings! Promotion valid on price levels – $16, $20, $25. Excludes Front Row and VIP seats. No double discounts. Subject to ticket availability. Featuring more than 50 characters for a magical medley of holidays, celebrations and festivals from around the globe this ALL NEW, high energy show is set to a blend of contemporary music and favorite Disney songs.  Join Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse as they as they celebrate “the most wonderful time of the year” with a winter wonderland featuring Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear; plus other fun-filled holidays including a Very Merry UnBirthday Party with Alice and the Mad Hatter; a Royal Valentine’s Day Ball with the Disney Princesses; Mardi Gras with Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen; a Cherry Blossom Festival with Minnie Mouse; a Hawaiian luau with Lilo & Stitch; a Halloween haunt with the Disney Villains; and more in the celebration of the century!  Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate!  will be a memorable and uplifting experience for the whole family to enjoy. For more information on Disney On Ice visit www.disneyonice.com or www.facebook.com/disneyonice

Nominate your favorite mom blogger here
…Yes…Jen’s List is nominated!
http://www.babble.com/babble-50/mommy-bloggers/nominate-a-blogger/index.aspx#

The Southern California Debut of…So 818 Chic Boutique
Thursday, November 18th from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
At the home of Gerilyn Shorten in West Hills
Call 818-429-8452 for the address and directions.
Be among the first to view this adorable and versitile line of clothing, bags, jewelry and accessories and baby gifts. A little shopping, a mimosa (or two). Live Well, Laugh Often, Look Fabulous.

Are you a parent with a troubled teen or know someone who is?
Respected/experienced production company is casting a new pilot/series looking for families with a troubled teen, ages 15-17 in the Los Angeles area. The project is being produced for a major cable network.
Do you suspect your teen is going down the wrong path?
Is your teen bullying and being aggressive at school?
Do you suspect your teen is hanging out with the wrong crowd and engaging in life-threatening activities?
The show will provide you with an expert trained in helping your teen get back on the right track. Please email a brief description about your situation and recent family photo to nataliecasting@yahoo.com.

 Valley Beth Shalom Day School Open House for prospective parents for grades K-6
Wednesday, November 17th & Tuesday, January 11th
Meet the Administrators, current parents and tour the school. You will learn about the highly academic general and judaic studies curriculums, the state of the art technology program, meet the Milken Award Winner, Coach Sam and feel the warm Jewish community.  To RSVP contact the Director of Admissions, Cindy Goodman at 818-530-4072 or cgoodman@vbsds.org.
www.vbsds.org

HOLIDAY BOUTIQUES THIS TUESDAY
Valley Beth Shalom’s Annual Hanukkah Boutique

Tuesday, November 16th from 9AM-7PM
Let the Shopping Begin! They will have a fabulous of jewelry, clothing, Judaica, artwork, home décor, baby gifts, trendy accessories, shoes, food items, stationary & much more!  The Gold Girls will purchase your old gold for cash and gift wrapping will be available at the boutique. Delicious lunch and goodies. Come for a wonderful day of shopping, food & fun!
15739 Ventura Blvd. in Encino
www.vbs.org
AND
The Santa Monica Synagogue Chanukah Boutique
Tuesday, November 16th from 3pm–8pm
Wonderful variety, high quality, great deals. Come, browse and bring home treasures for you and those on your holiday gift list!
1448 18th St (at broadway) in Santa Monica
310 453-4276

HOLIDAY BOUTIQUES THIS WEDNESDAY
OAKWOOD SCHOOL HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE FUNDRAISER
Wed., Nov. 17th from 8:30am-5:00pm
As always, there promises to be a wide variety of unique and exciting merchandise ranging from jewelry to gift items to famous designer brands ( James Perse, Juicy, Paige Denim, Diane Merrick, Maya Brenner designs, Dry Bar gift cards) at discounted prices. This fantastic event will be open to the public, so please come support not only the school, but the best of local businesses as well. Complimentary valet parking will be provided.
Oakwood’s Music, Dance, and Athletic Center
11575 Magnolia Blvd. in North Hollywood, 91601
(818) 752-4447
AND
2nd Annual Holiday Boutique
Wed., Nov. 17th from 10 am to 6 am
Sagebrush Cantina Calabasas
Bring your friends, mom, sister, aunt and come to shop with the many unique vendors and even stat for lunch, dinner and a drink. A great way to have a girls day or night out! Benefitting Haven Hills Domestic Abuse Shelter and Rotary Club of Calabasas Senior Thanksgiving Feast. Come to shop and help two great causes! Questions? Email nntrn@AOL.com.
AND
Sinai Akiba Acadamy Holiday Boutique
Wed., Nov. 17th, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Handbags, costume and fine jewelry, Judaica, adult and children’s clothing, toys, candles, food, entertainment and more! Perfect event to get all of your holiday shopping done in one place!
Sinai Temple, Barad Hall
10400 Wilshire Blvd. in Los Angeles

Give Thanks and Win $150 Visa Gift Plus $150 to the Charity of Your Choice!
What are YOU most thankful this Thanksgiving?Leave a comment telling what you’re giving thanks for and you will be entered for the chance to win a $150 Visa Gift Card. PLUS, they will match that and donate $150 to the charity of your choice. Happy Thanksgiving!
http://bit.ly/al1MI1

The Better Business Bureau is not all it’s cracked up to be…
http://abcnews.go.com/2020/video/business-bureau-probe-12138262

Temple Adat Elohim Hosts “Worry Free” Pediatrician
Thursday, Nov. 17th at 7 pm
The Early Child Center at Temple Adat Elohim will host Pediatrician Cara Natterson, M.D. She will be discussing her latest book, “Worry Proof,” that provides parents with concrete answers regarding which foods, chemicals and medicines pose REAL dangers to our kids. She will answer today’s most prevalent questions worrying today’s parents, including: Why do kids today have more allergies? — Are the hormones and antibiotics in milk harmful to children? — Can I ever give my child cough and cold medicine? — Is it safe to let my child use a cell phone? Event costs are $20 in advance, $25 at the door, $35 per couple. For reservations/questions, contact Andrea at (805) 497-4910 or email aleonard@adatelohim.com. Complimentary babysitting available.
Temple Adat Elohim, Social Hall
2420 E. Hillcrest Dr in Thousand Oaks

Market Research and Focus Groups
Recruiting for two (2) different ‘projects’:
1) Veterinarians for a 2-hour focus group. The incentive is $250.00 and will be held the evening of Wednesday, November 17, 2010; and
2) Dialysis patients for a ‘look-at’ 40-45 minute study,  to be held between November 15-21, 2010.  The incentive is $40.00.
Please call A.S.A.P. to either (818) 716-5267 or (818) 256-4778.

Do You Have a Nanny or a Housekeeper?
’20/20′ Wants to Hear Your Experiences With Help Around the House. Some nannies work part-time and others live-in, but when the workplace is someone else’s home, the hired help often becomes part of the family. The relationship between a nanny and the family who employs them is always intimate and often complicated. What happens when there is a clash of expectations between taking care of the kids and keeping the house clean? ABC News’ “20/20” wants to hear from nannies and families alike — the good, the bad, and everything in between. Fill out the form below and a producer may be in touch with you.
http://abcnews.go.com/2020/mailform?id=11807680

Dinner with Snow White at Fairies and Dragons Parties
Tuesday, November 16th from 5:30-7:00pm
Games, face painting, dinner and lots of fun! Come dressed in your best princess attire.

Reservations required.$25/child. Space for this event is limited. Call 818-783-8488.
16733 Ventura Blvd. in Encino, 91436
www.fairiesanddragonsparties.com
They specialize in fairytale birthday parties!

Transition from Early Intervention to Preschool
Workshop for parents, guardians, and caregivers of children receiving special education services. You will also receive a FREE notebook to organize your child’s medical, educational, or Regional Center documents!
Wednesday, November 17th from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Councilmember Greig Smith’s Office
18917 Nordhoff St., Suite 18 in Northridge, 91324
Contact: Theresa Quary – 818-677-6854 by November 15th This event is brought to you by the Family Focus Resource & Empowerment Center with funding and support of the Parent Prevention Program through the North L.A. County Regional Center and the Department of Developmental Services.

If you love Hallmark Channel Movies then you are going to love this feel good love story You Lucky Dog
It follows working woman Lisa Rayborn as she returns to her hometown of White Tail Creek to pay respect to her late mother. Soon after her arrival, she discovers that the town’s cattle ranching heritage has fallen on tough economic times and that her own family ranch is struggling. Determined to make things right, she adopts a shelter dog named “Lucky” with the intention of bringing life back to the ranch. What she finds is that the determination of one little furry friend will help to inspire an entire town.
http://www.hallmarkchannel.com/Programm/

Annual Kindergarten Night
Tuesday, November 16th at 6:00 p.m.
This event is open to the public. This is an opportunity for parents to learn about public and private schools who will have representatives at the event to talk about their schools, along with a Q&A. Schools that will be represented: Public: El Marino, Linwood Howe, Farrragut, El Rincon, Ocean Charter, Goethe Int’l. Charter, Overland, LAUSD Charter Schools (general overview), Westwood Charter. Private Schools: Westside Neighborhood, Marina Del Rey, The Willows Community School, Culver City, Wildwood School. RSVP to Yasmyn at yasmyn@happylandpreschool.org.
Happyland Preschool
4045 Lafayette Place in Culver City
www.happylandpreschool.org

The JS Sevens (Singles Group 50+) Dinner Party
Saturday, November 20th, 6-11pm
The Village at Northridge,  Schmooze, food, entertainment – Full course meal, no-host bar, casual attire, and most importantly FUN, FRIENDS, FRATNERIZING, FAMILIAR FACES, AND MORE! RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. PLEASE CALL 360-2211 COST: $20 BY NOVEMBER 17TH; $25 AFTER THAT NOVEMBER 17TH.

Creative Conflict Resolution: A Playshop for Teens
Tuesday and Wednesday, November 16th and 17th from 4 to 6:30 p.m., Santa Monica Boys and Girls Club, $35 fee. This “playshop” uses interactive activities to explore the nature of conflict. Teens will gain practical skills that will help in everyday life situations with friends and family members, teachers, etc. These tools and techniques help students to be more effective and less stressed; and they will carry these skills with them to college, work and throughout life.
http://www.oasisneted.com/

Looking to Give a Unique Gift This Season?
Give a Moving Scrapbook That Will be Cherished For a Lifetime! Bari will take your most treasured images, put them to music and transfer the completed photomontage to DVD. You will get a one of a kind DVD slideshow keepsake. It is perfect as a personalized photo gift or heirloom to pass on to future generations. She can also add video clips in the DVD too. And, if you call soon, you can have it in time for the holidays.
818-384-9678
http://slideshowsbybari.weebly.com

Tapping is the Most Unique, Fun Workout Around
TAP-a-holic Tap classes offers TAProbics, a great cardio dance class that combines old school aerobics with basic Tap dance steps. The classes are geared towards all levels and sizes. No experience necessary, and you can even rent shoes. It’s a great workout, but too much fun to feel like one.  Broadway-style tap classes for adults are also offered. For more information contact tap@tapaholictapclasses.com.
www.tapaholictapclasses.com

Kali’s Garden Indoor Play for Babies & Tots
Now offering discounted Private BIrthday Parties for their members!
$150 for Silver Members!
$99 for Gold Members!
Call (818) 347-PLAY for details!
4920 Topanga Canyon Blvd. in Woodland Hills,  91364
THEY ARE HIRING TOO!
www.KalisGardenWoodlandHills.com

Small, Cute, Creative Space Available for Party/Workshop Rentals
Located on Ventura Blvd in Studio City, the workshop space is the perfect place to host a small to medium sized event.  Showers, birthdays, acting classes, and workshops would be a perfect fit. Lots of colors and a really cozy style. They have seating for 40 and a small lifted stage area. Available 7 days a week and can work around your budget. Contact Katy for pictures and more information at kkrausLOL@gmail.com.

Rotem Gear: Fashion for the Global Tribe
Pop culture tees and limited edition artisan scarves make unique holiday gifts. Special Chanukah section, as well as Asian, Yiddish, Sephardic, geeky and humor designs. Featured on NBC and in print media. Created by local graphic designer R. Jean Roth.
www.RotemGear.com
www.jrotem.etsy.com

BALANCING MOTHERHOOD WORKSHOP
Wed., Nov. 17th from 9:00 AM-1:00 PM
Join Life Coaches, Margalit Ward & Monika Zands for a 1/2-Day Inspirational Workshop For Mothers. The BALANCING MOTHERHOOD Workshop is designed to invite you to dive into who you are, what you want, and how to get it. We offer a fun, nurturing, respectful and confidential environment to express and explore your thoughts, feelings and dreams. They show you the path, all you need to do is take the steps. What you will receive in the half-day workshop:
A renewed sense of yourself and what you love
Practices to care for yourself
Tools to stay on course and overcome roadblocks
Partnership and support
1114 S. Wetherly Drive in LA, 90035
Cost:  $75 / JEN’S LIST Members price $50 – ($25 discount)
Register at: http://bit.ly/BalancedMom (scroll down & choose early registration price)
Contact mommycoach@gmail.com or 310.714.9865 with any questions.

Tree Trimmer Lead
Referred by Jens List member apmfox@me.com
“We’d like to refer the superb tree trimming/removal company that just removed a 110-foot blue gum eucalyptus tree from our yard (which dropped three huge branches in the middle of the night, scaring us into immediate action). The company is AC Horticultural Management, family-owned and run by certified arborists. Ask for Rene Castillo, wk. 818-895-5559, www.achortico.com. They trimmed all our trees, damaged nothing, and cleaned up immaculately. Best of all, they gave us nearly the lowest bid.”

Cosmetic Laser Works
Botox, fillers, laser hair removal, laser skin tighting, electrolysis and more. Flexible hours, street parking. In business for over ten years in the community. Jen’s List customers save 20% on most services!
9024 Olympic. Blvd. # 210 in Beverly Hills, 90211
310-273-4247
www.cosmeticlaserworks.com

Heart Link Network, Santa Monica
Tues., Nov. 16th at 11:00 a.m.
This is now the only Heart Link meeting on the Westside! The Heart Link Network™ is a relaxed networking gathering for women. This unique experience enables you to meet fabulous women who help one another grow their businesses and strengthen their communities. No membership required ~ LIMITED to 20 participants, one from each business/industry. See website for more info.
www.90402.theheartlinknetwork.com

FREE Teleclass –  “PERMISSION TO SUCCEED: The 5 Biggest Secrets of Success”
Tuesday, November 16th at 9 p.m. EST
Lisa Haisha just got back from a powerful trip to Egypt and Jordan teaching and Soul Blazing over 100 people while sailing down the Nile River.  It was breathtaking and incredible experience.  This past weekend, she spoke with youth at Leaders Causing Leaders which was their first annual event, and looks forward to their growing success.
www.lisahaisha.com

The Mc Nanny Agency: Full Service Boutique Referral Agency
They save you precious time; by helping you define who you are looking for, sending you candidates who have been prescreened, who have excellent references and only send you candidates who meet your requirements. They make this process simple for you, so you can get back to spending quality time with your kids. To start your search now, call 818-232-7688. Mention Jen’s List for a 10% discount.
http://www.themcnannyagency.com

2009 Black VW Jetta SE 4 Door For Lease or Sale
Fully loaded with black leather interior, seat warmers, sunroof, automatic, power steering, doors, seats, etc.  5 CYL,with tiptronic. 11,000 Miles in excellent condition. 21 months left on a lease for $404.02/month or will sell the car for $16,900. Call 415-272-9377 for more info and pictures.