Walt Disney Records The Legacy Collection Review and Giveaway

I received a set of the Legacy Collection CDs as a member of the Entertainment New Media Network.  No further compensation was received and all opinions are my own.  The post may also contain affiliate links.

 

 

WALT DISNEY RECORDS ANNOUNCES

THE LEGACY COLLECTION

 

I recently received three of these albums:  The Lion King, Mary Poppins, and Sleeping Beauty. I must say I was amazed with the artwork created by Lorelay Bove, a visual development artist at Walt Disney Animation Studios.  The illustrations within the album celebrate Disney's rich heritage and bring back fond childhood memories. Each album comes with documentary content that tells the story behind each music. 

 

 

The Lion King, which celebrates its 20th anniversary, was released on June 24, 2014.  It is a two-disc set featuring the original motion picture soundtrack and 30 minutes of unreleased score.  In addition, the set comes with liner notes by producer Don Hahn and Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer. 

 

 

The second album in the Legacy Collection series, released in August 2014. is  a new soundtrack album for the Mary Poppins. The 3-disc set includes the songs and score from the film composed by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman, as well as behind-the scenes recordings and new recordings of The Lost Chords. Also included are excerpts from the P.L. Travers story meetings with Don DaGradi and the Sherman brothers, plus the Hollywood Spotlight Microphone 1965 post-premiere interviews and a 1989 interview with the Sherman brothers.The release coincides with the 50th Anniversary of the movie.

 

 

This beautiful 2 disc set features the enchanting songs and score from the film, studio recordings of Princess Aurora's songs performed by Mary Costa, and never before released demos and tracks.  Sleeping Beauty was released on October 7.

 

Here’s the Legacy Collection line up over the next two years:
• The Lion King, June 24, 2014
• Mary Poppins, August 26, 2014
• Sleeping Beauty, October 7, 2014
• The Little Mermaid, November 17, 2014
• Fantasia, January 3, 2015
• Pinocchio, February 3, 2015
• Toy Story, March 17, 2015
• Disneyland, April 7, 2015
• Lady and the Tramp, May 12, 2015
• Pocahontas, June 23, 2015
• The Aristocats, August 14, 2015
• Cinderella, August 14, 2015

 

My family and I have listened to these three albums several times since I received them.  We find a new reason to love them every time we listen to the CDs.  One lucky ready will get win a set of these three albums: The Lion King, Mary Poppins, and Sleeping Beauty.

 ** If it comes to this blogger's attention that the winner of this giveaway has won on an additional blog for this same prize, the blog reserves the right to choose another winner.
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MEAT DISTRICT CO OPENING IN PASADENA ON AUGUST 25, 2014

MEAT DISTRICT CO.  BEEFS UP ADDICTIVE ‘PADDOCK TO PLATE’ MENU

IN ANTICIPATION OF AUGUST 25, 2014 OPENING

 

Trendsetting New Restaurant Moves Forward While Giving Back

With Special Children’s Menu Dessert To Benefit

Pasadena Non-Profit Young & Healthy

 
Meat District Co., the much buzzed about new destination restaurant that boasts a mouthwatering ‘paddock to the plate’ inspired menu and one-of-a-kind dining experience, has announced that its highly-anticipated soft-opening will take place on Monday August 25, 2014.

 

Proud to open its first location in the heart of Old Pasadena, Meat District Co. is quickly moving forward by giving back.

The community-focused eatery, that works in partnership with some of America’s most sustainable producers to deliver unique quality and sumptuous dishes made of 100% natural ‘Never Ever’ (hormone, steroid and antibiotic free), beef burgers, prime steer steaks, ribs and more, is also making a sweet contribution on the children’s menu that will benefit Young & Healthy, a local non-profit that provides comprehensive healthcare to low-income children throughout greater Pasadena who lack or have inadequate health insurance.

Meat District Co. will donate each dollar, of the $1.00 special vanilla ice-cream treat that comes housed in a kid-friendly fun, creative and reusable toy, in support of the organization and its strong message to the community and beyond that “In Pasadena, every child matters.”

A modern nod to old-school butchers, Meat District Co., which dry ages its meat in-house for a minimum of 21 days, prominently displays clear refrigerated cases revealing hanging cured meats and an open kitchen that invites guests to witness the Chef’s mastery of the art of charcuterie.

Meat District Co. signature dishes include The Meat Hook, 10oz of succulent chunks of 100% Never Ever prime dry aged NY sirloin, rib eye and fillet with peppers, onions and mushroom and grilled in restaurant’s proprietary baste, served hanging for an extraordinary presentation. Other menu offerings include  ‘Never Ever’ (steroid, hormone, antibiotic-free)beef options which are seasoned and grilled with the Meat District Co.’s signature baste and spices.  The ½ pound juicy burgers range from the classic American Ol’ Faithful Burger to the trendy Truffle Burger and the beguiling Surf & Turf Burger. The something-for-everyone menu also includes a variety of Chicken Burgers, an Ahi Tuna Burger, Salmon Burger and Vegetarian Burger.

Filling the elusive void for diners who seek high-quality steak meals at reasonable prices, Meat District Co. offers a sizzling selection with options that begin at $18.00. Included on the menu are The Petite Fillet - 7 oz aged natural Angus tenderloin, The Flat Iron – 12oz Natural choice from Niman Ranch, The Sirloin – 11oz natural coulette  from Niman Ranch, The Rib-Eye – 12oz aged yearling choice special and the house specialty, The Porter House, which is available in both a 12oz and 20oz cut of aged Hartley Angus.

 

 

Located in the heart of Old Pasadena at 69 North Raymond, Meat District Co. collaborated with design firm DS17 to create an enticing blend of old-school charm and contemporary style in an open yet rustic space, evoking  a comfortable and inviting atmosphere where guests are encouraged to eat, drink, relax and “let the addiction begin.”

Stay up to date on what’s cooking at Meat District Co. by visiting www.meatdistrictco.com and like them on facebook.com/MeatDistrictCoPRG.

VitaFrute Cocktails: Organic Cocktails by VEEV

 

VitaFrute Cocktails By VEEV Presents Coconut Colada Launch Party

at Beach Haus Malibu with Special Guest Brook Burke-Charvet

 

 

 

VitaFrute Cocktails by VEEV celebrated the launch of its newest flavor of the ready-to-drink organic cocktail line, Coconut Colada, with an exclusive party at Beach Haus Malibu with special guest Brooke Burke-Charvet. Other celebrities in attendance included Chris Caldovino (Boardwalk Empire), Luke Barnett (400 Days), Bruno Amato (Horrible Bosses 2), Drew Seeley (Lovestruck) and Amy Paffrath (VH1 Dating Naked).  Both celebrities and VIP Guests were welcomed to Beach Haus Malibu with white orchid leis upon entering, immediately providing the summer luau feel of the event.

 

 

 

 

 



 

Guests enjoyed Coconut Colada VitaFrute Cocktails by VEEV, hors d’oeuvres and VEEV infused mini cupcakes (made by Cupcake Wars winner Crystal Nicole Jones of Cream by Crystal). With the breathtaking views of the beach, sounds from the live Caribbean steel drum performance and festive luau dancers, guests were treated to a tropical vacation-like experience. Attendees left with bottles of the Coconut Colada VitaFrute Cocktails by VEEV.

 

 

 

 

About VitaFrute™ Cocktails by VEEV®

 

VitaFrute™ Cocktails by VEEV® are the first line of organic and all-natural superfruit cocktails from the makers of VEEV®, the handcrafted acai spirit touted as a better alternative to vodka.  The newest addition, Coconut Colada adds to the array of flavors including Margarita, Lemonade and Cosmopolitan. VitaFrute™ Cocktails by VEEV® are ready-to-drink premium products under 125 calories per serving and taste great, naturally. VitaFrute™ Cocktails by VEEV® are available nationwide. Visit VitaFrute.com and Facebook.com/VEEV for more information, or follow @VEEV on Twitter and @VEEV on Instagram. VitaFrute™ Cocktails by VEEV®.  A Better Way to Drink™.

 

   

                      

 

 

 

Meat District Co.- Coming Soon to Pasadena

MEAT DISTRICT CO.  HOOKS UP PASADENA WITH AN EXCITING NEW DINING EXPERIENCE

AND ADDICTIVE ‘PADDOCK TO PLATE’ INSPIRED MENU

 

 

Trendsetting New Restaurant Featuring All Natural ‘Never Ever’ Beef

And The Freshest Of Fare Offers Affordably Priced High-Quality Food

In A Casual Dining Environment

 

The Meat District Co., an exciting new restaurant that aims to re-awaken the senses with a mouthwatering ‘paddock to the plate’ inspired menu and one-of-a-kind dining experience, is set to open its first location in Pasadena, CA mid-August 2014.

 

A modern nod to old-school butchers and a time when beef came from a farm, not a factory, Meat District Co. prominently displays clear refrigerated cases revealing hanging cured meats and an open kitchen that invites guests to witness the Chef’s mastery of the art of charcuterie.

Working in partnership with some of America’s most sustainable producers, Meat District Co. delivers unique quality and sumptuous dishes made of 100% natural ‘Never Ever’ (hormone, steroid and antibiotic free), beef burgers and prime steer steaks as well as ribs, free range chicken and succulent Lamb Pull and Pork Shoulder, both slow roasted to perfection.

All ‘Never Ever’ beef options are seasoned and grilled with the Meat District Co.’s signature baste and spices.  The ½ pound juicy burgers range from the classic American Ol’ Faithful Burger to the trendy Truffle Burger and the beguiling Surf & Turf Burger. The something-for-everyone menu also includes a variety of Chicken Burgers, an Ahi Tuna Burger, Salmon Burger and Vegetarian Burger.

Filling the elusive void for diners who seek high-quality steak meals at reasonable prices, Meat District Co. offers a sizzling selection with options that begin at $18.00. Included on the menu are The Petite Fillet - 7 oz aged natural Angus tenderloin, The Flat Iron – 12oz Natural choice from Niman Ranch, The Sirloin – 11oz natural coulette  from Niman Ranch, The Rib-Eye – 12oz aged yearling choice special and the house specialty, The Porter House, which is available in both a 12oz and 20oz cut of aged Hartley Angus.

 

Adding to the addictiveness is a special selection of culinary creative starters, sides and desserts as well as fresh salad selections such as the Shogun, hailed as Meat District Co.’s health salad, made of crunchy cabbage and chopped apple with spring onion, toasted almonds, sunflower, pumpkin and sesame seeds with crispy noodles and homemade dressing.  Craft beer and wine are also available at the Meat District Co.

 

Located in the heart of Old Pasadena at 69 North Raymond, Meat District Co. collaborated with design firm DS17 to create an enticing blend of old-school charm and contemporary style in an open yet rustic space, evoking  a comfortable and inviting atmosphere where guests are encouraged to eat, drink, relax and “let the addiction begin.”

 

Stay up to date on what’s cooking at Meat District Co. by visiting www.meatdistrictco.com and like them on facebook.com/MeatDistrictCoPRG.

 

The Dog Haus: More Than Just a Hotdog

Last month, Dog Haus, the celebrated Pasadena-based concept known for its gourmet hot dogs, sausages, burgers, and one-of-a-kind creations, opened its first franchise location in Canoga Park. Located at 6501 Topanga Canyon, the restaurant from franchisee Paul Homayoun is the 4th location of the emerging brand, which has plans for more than 50 additional locations to open throughout California, Colorado and Utah in the months to come, with more in the pipeline as the concept continues to grow beyond its SoCal home.

"There is so much passion and creativity behind Dog Haus, and I'm thrilled for the opportunity to work with Founding Partners André Vener, Hagop Giragossian and Quasim Riaz to bring this winning concept to the Canoga Park community," said Homayoun.

As part of their introduction to the community, guests enjoyed a free Haus Dog from a selection of Dog Haus' classic all-beef skinless dog offerings, all served up on grilled King's Hawaiian rolls. Options included the cult favorite Sooo Cali Haus Dog with arugula, tomato, crispy onions, spicy basil aioli and avocado; the Downtown Haus Dog featuring a smoked bacon wrapped dog topped with caramelized onions, sautéed bell peppers, mayo, mustard, and ketchup; and The Cowboy Haus Dog with white American cheese, smoked bacon, bbq sauce, and crispy onions.

        

We were not able to attend the opening, but Dog Haus was nice enough to invite me and my kids to sample their menu a few weeks later.  We were not disappointed.  We ordered The Pig and the Fig which was an emmentaler cheese-stuffed sausage, fig & onion relish, wild arugula, whole grain mustard aioli, topped with diced almonds; a Scott Baioli which was a hotdog with smoked bacon, white American cheese, garlic aioli and caramelized onions; a Little Leaguer (hotdog with haus chili, fritos, shredded cheddar and diced onions; and The Ringer- a burger (yes, they serve burgers too!) topped with smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, onion rings and bbq sauce.  While waiting for our food, the kids enjoyed a salted caramel shake.  I don't like milkshakes, but this particular one is a MUST HAVE.  I tried a little bit of everything but I must say, my favorite was The Pig and the Fig.  Individually, the components don't seem to go together on a sausage but the flavors blend together surprisingly well. Did I mention all of the hotdogs, sausages and burgers are served on grilled King's Hawaiian rolls?  Everything was delicious! Needless to say, we have been back several times since.  I think my family is on a quest to try every single item on the Dog Haus menu.

                                           

To pair with their dogs, diners can order fare from Dog Haus' full menu, which is rounded out with gourmet sausages, burgers, corndogs, shakes, and sides (the chili cheese tater tots are a meal in itself!) -- each prepared with the highest quality ingredients. Ambitious diners can also opt to build their own dog, sausage or burger with the wide array of accoutrements available.  Lighter appetites and kids can indulge in slider-sized portions.

 

Soon, diners will be able to select from a thoughtful list of beers and wines on tap to complement the delicious fare.  

“It's incredible to see how the idea for Dog Haus has transformed since we opened our first restaurant in Pasadena in 2010,” adds Dog Haus Partner Quasim Riaz. "We are proud to bring Dog Haus home to Canoga Park and look forward to becoming part of this community."

The new restaurant, located at 6501 Topanga Canyon, Canoga Park, CA, 91303, is open for lunch and dinner daily from 11 am - 10 pm. For more information call 818-340-HAUS or visit www.doghaus.com.

 

**Dog Haus provided the food for me and my family to sample.  All opinions are solely my own.

 

 



Avast ye: The Pirate's Dinner Adventure Experience

With my kids busy with their school and sport-related activities this summer, it was hard to schedule an extended vacation.  No big deal.  There are so many things to do and places to visit in Southern California alone.  Imagine my surprise when we attended a Pirate's Dinner Adventure in Buena Park.  After doing some research, I found out that Pirate's Dinner Adventure received the Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisory in December 2013.

Billed as the WORLD'S MOST UNIQUE AND INTERACTIVE DINNER SHOW, Pirate's Dinner Adventure is a two-hour non-stop live performance featuring an astonishing display of special-effects wizardry, aerial artistry, swashbuckling and dynamic duels.  The actors and actresses can sing!  My favorite part of the show was perhaps the aerial artistry.  Simply amazing!  More than 150 guests(mostly children of all ages) got  the chance to play an actual role in each show. My two little ones were picked to take part in the show.   How's that for interactive?

On top of all that, we got dinner and appetizers!  The apps were served in the lobby/waiting area before the pre-show. Guests were also able to purchase cocktails and souvenirs while waiting.   It was definitely a great way pass the time while waiting to be escorted in the theater by our "Pirates".  Once inside, we were shown to our table, where we were able to fully take in the environment.  It felt like we were transported into another world.  A world of pirates, harbors, and  pirate ships.

Instructions to the audience and dinner orders were swiftly taken care of before the show. The dinner feast fit for a pirate included your choice of vegetable soup or fresh garden salad, roasted half chicken or beef kabobs, buttery mashed potatoes or Caribbean rice and fudge brownie a la mode for dessert.  Vegetarian and kids meals were also available.  The meal also included unlimited soft drinks and complimentary coffee.  I chose the chicken with Caribbean rice and steamed vegetables.  I was pleasantly surprised.  The chicken was moist, juicy, and very tasty.

With everything going on off "stage" with food being served, cocktail orders being delivered and audience-actors being cued for their parts, all eyes remained on what was happening onstage.  The actors were so engaging and kept the energy up, it didn't feel like 2 hours had passed. 

 

 

 

We enjoyed ourselves so much, we're already planning a return trip!

Pirate's Dinner Adventure is conveniently located off the 5 and 91 freeways in the heart of Buena Park Entertainment Zone just 10 minutes away from the Disneyland Resort and 15 minutes from John Wayne Airport with domestic/international service.  Complimentary on-site bus, car and handicapped parking.  The fully-enclosed, air-conditioned venue offers two full bars, gift and photo souvenir shops.  Guests from all over are accommodated by a multilingual staff with exceptional customer service.

What are you waiting for? Come live the Pirate's Life at Pirate's Dinner Adventure,  in Buena Park, California.

***My family and  received tickets to the show in exchange for a review and posts across different social media channels through US Family Bloggers.  All opinions are solely my own.

Grease Sing-A-Long at the Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl’s lively Grease Sing-A-Long is back on July 13 with a pre show performance and the much-loved movie musical on the Bowl’s giant screen!

Tickets available here. 

The annual event, which is hosted by Didi Conn, best known for her role as the beauty school dropout Frenchy, will also feature a pre show performance by ‘50s music legends Sha Na Na. The band, who rose to stardom with their portrayal of Johnny Casino and the Gamblers in the movie, also performed six songs on the film’s iconic soundtrack. 

Pirate's Dinner Adventure-Buena Park, CA: Exclusive Offer

With my kids out for the summer, I'm always looking for ways to entertain the whole family without breaking the bank.  A friend suggested to look into Pirate's Dinner Adventure.  After doing some research, I found out that Pirate's Dinner Adventure received the Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisory in December 2013.  Well, my interest was certainly piqued.

Billed as the WORLD'S MOST UNIQUE AND INTERACTIVE DINNER SHOW, Pirate's Dinner Adventure is a two-hour live performance featuring an astonishing display of special-effects wizardry, aerial artistry, swashbuckling and dynamic duels.  More than 150 guests have the chance to play an actual role in each show. How's that for interactive?

On top of all that, you get dinner!  The four-course feast fit for a pirate includes Pre-show appetizers, vegetable soup or fresh garden salad, roasted half chicken or BBQ beef kabobs, buttery mashed potatoes or Caribbean rice and fudge brownie a la mode for dessert.  Vegetarian and kids meals are available.  The meal also includes unlimited soft drinks and complimentary coffee.

Pirate's Dinner Adventure is conveniently located off the 5 and 91 freeways in the heart of Buena Park Entertainment Zone just 10 minutes away from the Disneyland Resort and 15 minutes from John Wayne Airport with domestic/international service.  Complimentary on-site bus, car and handicapped parking.  The fully-enclosed, air-conditioned venue offers two full bars, gift and photo souvenir shops.  Guests from all over are accommodated by a multilingual staff with exceptional customer service.

It gets better...you can SAVE with this special offer for my readers:  $25 off Adult and $15 off Child admission over the phone and mention code "USFAM" at the time of purchase.  Reservations required.  Share this EXCLUSIVE OFFER to Pirate's Dinner Adventure with friends and family!

What are you waiting for? Come live the Pirate's Life at Pirate's Dinner Adventure, California.

Stand Up For Summer- Share Our Strength: No Kid Hungry

When schools close in your state and across the country, free and reduced-price school meals come to an end, and millions of low-income children spend the summer months worried about how to get enough to eat. The federal summer meals programs are a great resource for some of these kids, but program barriers exist that cause only 1 out of the 7 kids who need these meals to get them.

Your members of Congress can make a difference for kids facing hunger this summer. Ask them to take action to make sure kids have access to summer meals this year.

Send an email to Congress asking your leaders to take 3 actions this summer:

1.	Visit a summer meals site to see the summer meals program in action and learn about opportunities to help modernize the program to meet the needs of kids during summer months.
2.	Raise awareness about childhood hunger in your state by sharing summer meals fliers, writing an op-ed, recording a PSA, and promoting outreach materials in your community.
3.	Promote the summer meals texting number ('FOOD' to 877-877) that helps connect families to meals sites nearest to them.

Kids might not get a vote, but they still need Congress to work for them.  Ask your members of Congress to visit a summer meals site and help us end childhood hunger in America.

Take A Stand.  Together we can end childhood hunger in America.

Dara Torres Swims 24 Laps for Meningitis

Recently,  at an event hosted by Voices of Meningitis, young swimmers dove into the Verdugo Pool in Burbank with twelve-time Olympic medalist Dara Torres to swim 24 laps, signifying that meningococcal meningitis can claim a life in just 24 hours. 

I had the pleasure of interviewing Dara Torres, as well as Robbin Thibodeaux and Carolina Sandoval before the event.  Torres, a mother of three, said, “I've seen what this disease can potentially do to kids.” During the interview, she talked about her involvement with Voices of Meningitis and about the importance of educating parents/guardians about meningococcal meningitis.  

Robbin Thibodeaux  lost her 19-year-old son Thomas James Kent to the disease on Christmas in 2005.
She said, of Thomas, “He fueled my purpose to educate and bring awareness,” she said. “It's quite devastating for a family to lose somebody as bright as Thomas was.”

During the interview, Dara explained about her involvement with Voices of Meningitis, what meningitis is, the importance of children getting vaccinated against this disease, and what parents can do to help prevent the spread of meningococcal meningitis.

Carolina Sandoval, a pediatric nurse practitioner, said young people between the ages of 16 and 21 are the most at risk for the disease. “They're close together, sharing utensils, sharing kisses, bottled water,” she said. “How can you tell a teenager, 'Don't hug your friend?'“

So what is MENINGOCOCCAL MENINGITIS?

Meningococcal meningitis  is a bacterial infection that can potentially take the life of an otherwise healthy young person within 24 hours of the first symptoms appearing.  It is difficult to recognize, especially at its onset because its symptoms are similar to those of common viral illnesses like the flu.   Those who survive meningococcal meningitis can suffer permanent consequences such as amputation of limbs, fingers, or toes, severe scarring, brain damage, hearing loss, kidney damage and psychological problems.   

Although anyone can contract meningitis, teens and young adults are at the highest risk, even people who are usually healthy like athletes and college students.   Meningitis is contagious and can be spread by common activities such as kissing, sharing drinking glasses and eating utensils, smoking (and even exposure to cigarette smoke), and living in close quarters like dorms and camps.  

It is very important to know what symptoms to look for.  Someone with meningococcal disease may have some or all of the following symptoms, but not at the same time:

• Severe headaches
• High fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Cold or painful hands and feet
• Light sensitivity
• Confusion
• Rash
• Seizures
• Painfully stiff neck

If your child exhibits these symptoms, and especially if you know that he or she has been exposed to meningitis, contact a doctor immediately.  When it comes to treating this deadly disease, speed is key.  Meningitis can take the life of an otherwise healthy individual within 24 hours.

Vaccinating your child is the best way to help protect preteens from meningococcal meningitis.  Meningitis vaccines are available for those who wish to reduce their risk of contracting this potentially deadly disease. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends 2 doses of meningococcal conjugate for adolescents 11 through 18 years of age. First dose at 11 or 12 years of age, with a booster dose at age 16.  If the first dose is given between 13 and 15 years of age, the booster should be given between 16 and 18

It is also extremely important to encourage healthy habits that can help prevent contracting and the spread of meningitis:  Avoid sharing glasses, eating utensils, and toothbrushes, or generally anything that someone has put in or near their mouth.  Studies have also shown that smoking or being around secondhand smoke can increase a teen's chances of contracting meningitis, so staying away from smoke and smoking is another healthy habit that can help prevent meningitis.

For more information about Meningococcal Meningitis, you can go to Voices of Meningitis and talk to your healthcare professional.