Sunday November 28, 2010

Today in History
Pins and needles day
http://www.kids-list.com/Blog.aspx?blog=240

MALIBU FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL 2010
Sunday, December 5th from 12-5pm
Over 2,000 guests will savor Unlimited Tastings of Fine Wines and Delectable Cuisine, as they enjoy the sounds of live Cuban Jazz, overlooking the Bluffs of Malibu. Come grab your glass and start swirling and sipping, as you choose from an array of Tantalizing Dishes served by exceptional Malibu Restaurants, and all for one General Admission price! Please type “Team Cecilia” in Special Notes when purchasing your Tickets, and 35% of the proceeds will be donated to Talbert Family Foundation.
www.malibufoodwinefestival.com

YO HO HO! A PIRATE’S CHRISTMAS
Opens November 26th and runs through December 23rd
Critics called it:
“A Holiday Gift to Behold!” “One Family Show You Won’t Want to Miss!” “Destined to Become a Perennial Year-End Favorite!”
See what happens when a crew of directionally challenged pirates invade the North Pole in this holiday family classic. Yo Ho Ho! A Pirate’s Christmas is the musical event of the holiday season. See how the citizens of the North Pole, including Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their many happy elves (especially a nine year old elf named Eve) save Christmas from the famous pirate Black-Eyed Johnny and his gang of wacky buccaneers. You won’t want to miss this musical feast of shanties, songs, SANTA CLAUS, and SNOW!
SHOW TIMES:
FRIDAYS at 7:30 p.m.(no performance DEC. 10 & 17)
SATURDAYS at 3:00 & 7:30 p.m.(plus 12:00 p.m. on DEC. 11 & 18)
SUNDAYS at 3:00 p.m. AND!  DEC 21 – 23 at 7:30 p.m.(Tues, Wed, Thurs)
Tickets: $25 adults, $15 Seniors 65+ and Students 18 & under, Children 6 and under are FREE with each paid adult admission
For tickets: go to http://www.nohoace.com and click on the Tickets link
PSSSST…SECRET CODE FOR $5 OFF ANY TICKET/ANY PERFORMANCE IS: yohojen(Expires at midnight Dec.3rd)

PLEASE (with sugar on top!) Vote for Jen’s List!
No need to log in or anything! Only takes 2 seconds – Just go to
http://www.babble.com/babble-50/mommy-bloggers/nominate-a-blogger/ and click “Like” next to “Jen’s List”. And, if you’ve already voted- THANK YOU VERY MUCH!

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes is coming to Southern California!
The show hits Honda Center December 6th & 7th and Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE December 9th-12th.
ENTER TO WIN 4 ticket to a performance at either venue by submitting your name and email address to shows@hondacenter.com by Midnight tonight (11/27). For tickets and info visit www.radiocitychristmas.com.

CONGRATS to Debra Belschner
Winner of the Yo Gabba Gabba Tickets!

CASTING
Do you have an AMAZING kid? Does your kid crack you up? Have you ever thought, “My kid should be on TV?”
From Executive Producer, RYAN SEACREST, comes a new major cable network show that is searching for every-day kids between the ages of 5 to 11 years old that are clever, funny and have the gift of gab for an upcoming TV series. They are NOT looking for actors, just cool kids with outgoing personalities and something to say. If this is your kid, they want to meet them! For more information, send the name, age and photo of your child to: teresamlowther@gmail.com.
AND
Bunim/Murray Productions, behind such series as Project Runway and Keeping Up With the Kardashians is casting for a new television documentary special about singers
The production company is looking for inspiring stories about performers who had to give up their dream of a musical career when life got in the way though their passion for music remains bright. If you or anyone you know fits this description and lives in the Los Angeles area, send a brief paragraph, two recent photos, an MP3 if available and contact information to songcasting@bunim-murray.com
AND
Casting a national TV commercial for the 40th Anniversary for America’s Favorite Card Game – UNO!
This is a nationwide search for all types of families, friends, co-workers, neighbors, college buddies … basically they want everyone to submit home videos of themselves playing a raucous and rousing game of UNO. The most creative and energetic entries will appear on a 30 second National TV commercial that will air during the coverage of the 2011 Rose Bowl Parade. They need to see a group of people of all ages having tons of fun while visibly playing UNO and shouting typical things from the game. “DRAW FOUR!” “YOU SKIPPED ME?” and of course, Everyone shouts, “UNO!” But  it’s not just for families, they also would like submissions from Sports Teams, A Military barracks, Fire Fighters or Police Officers, Teachers, Rockers, People playing Uno in the snow… Anything as long as it’s HIGH-ENERGY! They need LAUGHTER, FRUSTRATION, VICTORY and DISAPPOINTMENT. The more creative your video, the better your chances your video will make it on the air. If you would like more information and instructions how to shoot your video, please visit www.beyondcasting.com. You may also email directly at uno@beyondcasting.com.

Mommy’s Idea Giveaways
3 Month Premium Membership to Zoodles.com, a safe Kid Mode for computers
http://www.mommysidea.com/2010/11/win-3-month-premium-membership-to.html
Open worldwide.
Contest ends at 11:59 PM EST on Saturday, November 27, 2010.
Win a Puppet Theater!
http://www.mommysidea.com/2010/11/win-melissa-and-doug-puppet-theater.html
Open to US residents.
Contest ends at 11:59 PM EST on Monday, November 29, 2010.
Win a cupcake carrier and sandwich box!
http://www.mommysidea.com/2010/11/win-cupcake-carrier-and-sandwich-box.html
Open to US residents.
Contest ends at 11:59 PM EST on Monday, November 29, 2010.
Win a Cradle Rock CD!
http://www.mommysidea.com/2010/11/win-cradle-rock-lullaby-cd.html
Open to Continental US and Canada residents.
Contest ends at 11:59 PM EST on Thursday, December 2, 2010.
Win a Dreamy Eyes Plush Animal!
http://www.mommysidea.com/2010/11/win-dreamy-eyes-plush-animal.html
Open to Continental US and Canada residents.
Contest ends at 11:59 PM EST on Saturday, December 4, 2010. 

Jeweler Lead
Referred by Jens List member mommat@me.com
“I highly recommend “JR’S DIAMONDS & JEWERLY. I have had several pieces made and one repaired there. Not only do they deal with every price range and work with you to see you get exactly what you want at an incredible price their service is unbelievable. They are truly exceptional! I cannot say more about How incredible they are. They have a large variety of pieces at the store or can create anything. Ask for Gina. (818) 789-8303“

Holiday Gift Idea for New Parents!
To commemorate the birth of a child, www.lmdisplays.com offers a unique “one of a kind” baby trophy for new parents and grandparents. This beautiful trophy has become extremely popular with everyone as a treasured gift  – especially the grandmothers! These trophies feature a gold plated solid steel baby figurine lying on a genuine white marble base with the baby’s vital statistics professionally engraved on a gold plate. For holiday gift giving, now is the time to order to ensure that your trophy is completed and delivered on time.

12 Men of Christmas – Available now on DVD
This cheeky, romantic comedy is a holiday must-have featuring Broadway super-star and Emmy-winner Kristin Chenoweth (“Glee,” “Pushing up Daisies”), Anna Chlumsky (My Girl, In the Loop) and Josh Hopkins (“Private Practice,” “Cougartown”). When die-hard New Yorker and publicist E.J. Baxter (Chenoweth) loses both her high-powered Manhattan job and her lawyer-fiancé at her office Christmas party, she winds up taking a job and moving to Montana. To help the local search-and-rescue station raise desperately needed funds, she convinces the male rescue workers to pose for a naked calendar. Along the way, she discovers what really matters to her and wins the heart of one of the pin-ups! Fox has created a fun, interactive special feature for the 12 MEN OF CHRISTMAS DVD which gives viewers the opportunity to create their very own special calendar. 
http://www.amazon.com/12-Men-Christmas-Kristin-Chenoweth/dp/B0042DN4UO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1290490018&sr=8-1

Mealtime Masterpiece placemats
They come with a set of marker pens to transform your place setting from blank canvas to prized collectible. There are 48 sheets in each pad, enough to start your own gallery.
http://fatbraintoys.com/toy_companies/fred_friends/

Ocean Soul Jewelry
Uses the highest quality natural stones and precious metals to hand-craft each custom made piece of jewelry.
www.oceansouljewelry.com

Holiday Boutique
Monday, November 29th from 10am-1pm and 5pm-9pm
A perfect event to get all of your holiday shopping done! We have a fabulous and unique selection of jewelry, accessories, clothing, stationery, children’s artwork, pet accessories, customized invitations, wall art, food items and much more! Meet with a physical trainer for holiday weight tips or pick up a gift certificate for a massage.
23825 Park Belmonte in Calabasas

TUTU PARTY
Tutu Fairy comes to your house or venue with an assortment of tutus in the colors you choose for your party! All the guest pick their fav tutu and we design it! After all the tutu elves learn a 8 count dance or have a crash course in how to walk the catwalk! Then a fashion show or dance performance! Call for rates! Parties tweeked to fit your tutu elf!
www.abidebuyit.com

WINTER CAMP LEADS
8 Count Dance Academy Winter Dance Camp
Monday, December 27th through Thursday, December 30th from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
10469 Santa Monica Boulevard, West of Beverly Glen on Santa Monica
For all ages 7 through 18, with a parent showcase the last day from 3 to 3:30 p.m.  Directed by  Sarah D’Agostino and Sarah Mahoney with instructions in ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical and musical theater dance.
www.8CountLA.com
AND
Kids On Stage
Are you asking yourself “What Can I do with my Kids Over Winter Vacation?”. If so, send them to Kids On Stage! The instructors are trained professionals & the kids will have a blast! Camp days consist of acting, singing, dancing, choreography, costumes, improvisation, theater games and art.
http://www.kidsonstage.com

Whale Watching Boat Excursions Departing from the Malibu Pier™
Beginning December 26th
Saturday and Sunday departures at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., as well as 12/26, 12/27, 12/30, 1/01 and 1/02 for the holidays. All trips last approximately 2.5 hours.  Costs are as follows: $45 for adults, $35 for children ages 3 to 12 (children under 3 are free), s$35 for seniors over age 62. Family ticket promotion includes 2 adult, 2 children tickets for $120. (Promo Code- Family2011) Reservations are recommended as space is limited and filling up fast.
310-456-8031
www.malibupier.com

Chicks Restaurant in Agoura Hills
Kids under 5 eat free and they also cater for parties and holidays. Family owned.
www.chickschicken.com

The Olive Vineyard HOLIDAY PROMOTION!
Come taste and experience the difference with The Olive Vineyard. The intimate tasting room contains over 40 flavored extra virgin olive oils & balsamic vinegars imported from countries world-wide. Mention Jen’s List to receive 10% off.
www.TheOliveVineyard.com

Temple Judea & Whole Foods Tarzana Present a Community Menorah Lighting on all Eight Nights of Hanukkah
Nightly, at 5 p.m. at Whole Foods on Ventura in Tarzana.
Join the clergy of Temple Judea every night of Hanukkah to sing songs, sample tasty treats, share stories and celebrate the Festival of Lights. Open to the entire community, bring your friends and make it a Hanukkah Happening in the ‘Hood.  For more information, visit www.templejudea.com or www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/tarzana/.

Agoura Children’s Theatre
All children ages 6 – 15 years old are invited to join the Agoura Children’s Theatre, Est. 1984. Theatre and improvisation classes are offered after school and weekends. Children receive individual attention, learn about theater, acting and teamwork and paint sets and design their costumes. They also play improvisational games from the Groundings. All activities are designed to build self-confidence and self esteem. Small class sizes means limited space is available. Reserve a spot in ACT by calling 818-225-1459.
www.agourachildrenstheatre.com

Gymnastics for Fun & Life: All Olympia Gymnastics Center
Want to increase athletic skills? Looking for a great competitive program? All Olympia offers gymnastics for all levels as well as cheerleading and birthday parties. They have expert coaching staff including former Olympians. You will love gymnastics. Call 818-222-0189 for a free trial class.
www.allolympiagym.com

Activity at Mathnasium
Want to have fun with fractions and enter a raffle to win a $25 gift card to a local restaurant? Go to Mathnasium of Thousand Oaks on Facebook, click “Like”, open Insider Deals and find problems of two different levels of difficulty there. Click on one to enlarge, print it, solve the problem and bring it to 1321 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. #124 before Dec. 4th.  If needed, we can help you solve the problem when you come in. Call (805) 777-8403 for details.
www.mathnasium.com

Sleep Coaching for Infants & Children
Dr. Jessica is a licensed clinical psychologist and mother who offers personalized sleep coaching via email/phone/Skype at reasonable rates. She specializes in attachment issues and early childhood development so can help you understand the reasons behind certain approaches and the likely affect it will have on your child.
www.mySleepCoachJessica.com

Group Sing – For Kids
Join up in January for Group Sing classes in Woodland Hills. Kids learn about music, rhythm, note names, and solfege (do re mi). Children are warmed-up together and taught songs as a group.  There is solo time at the end of each class.  Kids have fun while they learn. Great for confidence building.  $15 each for a 45 minute class. Call Ariella Vaccarino at 818-593-2038 or via email at ariella@voicelessonstogo.com.

Professional Development with Temple Judea: Let’s Connect
Tuesday, December 2nd, Schmoozing at 7 p.m., Program at 7:30 p.m.
The goal of Let’s Connect is to connect Jewish professionals and their businesses to each other and to provide access to inspiring and insightful guest speakers in the area of professional education and development and business practices. LCTJ is a joint endeavor of Jewish Vocational Services (JVS) and Temple Judea. This month every attendee will have a chance to do a two minute presentation to the group on what they do and what kind of referrals you are looking for. For more information or to RSVP, email letsconnect@templejudea.com.
http://www.templejudea.com/news.php?bridge_id=106
6601Valley Circle Boulevard in West Hills

Custom Built Playhouses for Kids
How would you like a wooden playhouse for endless play? Create memories in a beautiful wooden house built the way you want it. You pick colors, size, design, flooring, AC/heating units and much more. Price starts at $399 depending on size and added custom upgrades. Great for small indoor spaces, garages or backyards. Visit www.gigisplayhouses.com or call 951-288-4539. Mention Jen’s List and receive 5% off and a free chimney.

Soft Tissue Solutions Therapeutic Center Holiday Party
Tuesday, December 9th from 4 to 7 p.m.
Free mini treatments, raffles, prizes and someone giving out cash for your gold! What better way to celebrate the holidays than beauty treatments, food, fun and cash. Please RSVP to reserve your spot for treatment times as space is limited. 
www.softtouchbeauty.com

Beverly Hills Stylist Holiday Specials
Mr. Randall Williams of Paramount Studios, Bellezza Salon at The Beverly Hilton Hotel and originator of the very successful “Locks of Love” at the event at the Skybar, would like to extend his gift of giving this holiday season. He is offering 40% off “in salon” services and 30% off housecalls to all 1st time clients. Services include  haircut, blow dry, wet sets, color, Brazilian treatments and extensions. 
310-562-4005

Blog for Grandparents and Their Grandchildren
Here are some very simple things you can do anytime, with your great-grandchildren, and it won’t take a lot of preparation time on your part. These are tried and true fun time activities, for anytime of the year, but seem particularly relevant as families gather for the holidays and look for engaging things to do with the children. Whether you are visiting family or they are visiting you, you will enjoy a few of their favorite things.
grandparentingplus.blogspot.com/

Lotus East-West Medical Center: Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Dr. Brendan Armm works with women through their pregnancy, whether be for pain, morning sickness, inducing labor, hormone balancing, stress, fatigue, digestive complaints, or general health maintenance and strength for a healthy delivery. He also works with male and/or female factor infertility, and with women after pregnancy whether be for postpartum bleeding, depression, or boosting the body’s energy and vitality.
310-828-8258
www.lotusew.com

Shellac Your Nails for the Holidays
Everyone wants a manicure that lasts. Shellac manicures last a full two weeks. Best of all, the gel polish dries immediately. Plus, your nails don’t break as easily because they are protected by the Shellac brush on/soak off gel. Kelli at Blush Salon is offering Jen’s List Members a 20% discount to new customers.
818-429-7811

Educational Therapist
Andrea Chernin is a warm and engaging Educational Therapist providing a private, professional, fun and understanding place in which to help children and adults strengthen their learning abilities. She works with several different types of learners, including those with learning disabilities, those who are gifted, twice-exceptional learners, those with executive functioning challenges, and learners who simply need a bit of extra academic support.
310-458-0373
www.educationalcareapist.com

Cute and Comfy Kneeling Cushions with Hand Selected Washable Fabrics
Save your knees when kneeling down. These are great for parents and nannies who bathe a child/toddler, s baby shower gift for mommy, scrubbing floors/bath, sitting cushion at kid’s sporting events on hard benches, or your child can have a personal cushion for reading, eating snacks or relaxing. Fabric is pre-washed and has extra soft padding sewn inside. Each cushion is nicely wrapped.
www.CuteAndComfyCushionKnee.com

Are You Riding The Social Media Wave?
By not learning how to generate more business using Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and blogging you are literally leaving tons of potential revenue, new business and new relationships on the table. Social Media Marketing is the cutting-edge of developing and enhancing businesses. If you are not familiar with the advancement and evolution of this internet arena, you are missing the possibility of taking your business or idea concepts  to the next level. Zach Slobin is a Social Media Educator available for both private and group classes, teaching both existing and new business owners exactly how to harness the power of the new wave of marketing. Zach has taught courses on Social Media to several hundred people and is extremely knowledgeable. Whether you are just getting started in the world of Social Networking or are seeking to elevate your online presence, Zach can assist you. To learn more, email Zach.Slobin@gmail.com or call 919-802-6201.

Handbell Choir Rings in the Holidays at Highland Hall
Thursday, December 9th
The Highland Hall Handbell Choir will be performing at the Congregational Church of Northridge. This is free and open to the public.
www.northridgechurch.net/

Executive Assistant Available for Part-Time Work in the West San Fernando Valley
Many years of office experience in the entertainment industry.   Great personality, dependable and excellent references. Contact Linda Paolucci at paolucci.linda@gmail.com.