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Six Flags Great Adventure Coasters, Lions, Tigers & Bears

28 Mar

Six Flags GreatAdventure launched four seasons of thrills March 23 with Opening Weekend Presented by Allegra® and Spring Break running through April 3 from 10:30 am to 8 pm daily. The event is marked by the debut of adorable lion, tiger and bear cubs, special events, new offerings plus a countdown to the park’s 14th and most insane coaster, The Joker, and Hurricane Harbor’s new Caribbean Cove water playground. 

*Lions, Tigers, Bears (Oh My!) and Events Begin March 23

  
Guests can see the Safari’s adorable baby cub trio – consisting of lion, tiger and bear cubs — beginning March 23. The female lion named Zuri and tiger named Nadya were born late last year. The pair made news when the Six Flags animal care team began hand-raising them as sisters when their mothers did not adequately care for them. While the two would typically never cross paths in the wild, they have bonded and help each other gain socialization skills. The newest cub, a female European brown bear named Baily, was born January 12 and needed medical assistance. She has been thriving under veterinary team care. The cub trio will spend most of the season at Camp Aventura, and will be introduced to their respective species at the Safari later this season.

  
Two new shows will make their debut this spring. Versatile entertainers Cliff Woerner and Nick Spinelli will blur the line between the possible and impossible as they showcase a blend of comedy, wondrous illusions and audience participation in This Magic Moment, beginning March 23 in Adventure Theater. In SeaFari Theater, fun and friendly animal competition featuring sea lions, pigs, otters, birds and goats will take center stage in the new Wildlife Games, set to debut later this spring.

The theme park will also introduce new dining venues this spring including the Go Fresh Café with healthy food options near Nitro, Sky Bar featuring wine, beer, soda and a variety of snacks adjacent to the 24-story SkyScreamer, and Villains Café featuring turkey legs, snacks and drinks in the Lakefront. For Season Pass holders, the best dining value continues to be the All-Season Dining Pass which allows guests to pay once and eat all year and includes the new dining venues.

Educational programs will also welcome students back to Six Flags this spring. Boy Scout Camporee, Girl Scout Day, Biology Day, Physics Day and Safari Off Road Education turn the park into an outdoor classroom where kids can experience fun and learning.

  

*THE JOKER Will Wreak Total Mayhem Along the Lakefront

  
Six Flags Great Adventure prepares for its most insane roller coaster experience in history with The Joker. After being lifted straight up a 12-story, 90-degree hill, this 4-D, free-fly coaster will wreak havoc as riders flip head-over-heels at least six times along the weightless journey. Thrill seekers will experience exhilarating leaps and dives along a horizontal plane, along with unexpected drops as they tumble from one level to the next. The wing seats amp up the pandemonium since riders will experience all of this chaos with no track above or below ─ just the sky, ground and adjacent Great Lake churning around them.

 The unique design of The Joker features:

· Massive, imposing, floating and twisting I-box track frame in a unique two-tone design

· One-of-a-kind onboard magnetic technology featuring smooth head-over-heels free-fly flips providing guests the feeling of weightlessness as they soar outside the confines of a traditional track

· 4-D wing vehicles that seat up to 8 per vehicle with a total of 5 vehicles

· Face-off seats that allow riders to face each other as they tumble head over heels

· A 120-foot-tall, 90-degree hill that is ascended by an elevator-style, chain link lift

· Two beyond 90-degree “raven” drops giving the sensation of free-falling

The park’s 14th and most unique scream machine in its history, The Joker is expected to wreak total mayhem beginning Memorial Day weekend, and join the ranks of all legendary roller coasters at Six Flags Great Adventure.

  

*New Caribbean Cove Splashes into Hurricane Harbor

  
Beginning May 21, Guests can cool down as the weather heats up at Hurricane Harbor. In June, the all-new water play area, Caribbean Cove, will add more family fun to the 45-acre water park.

 Caribbean Cove cool facts:  

· Active and colorful water play center with more than 55 interactive features

· Spray nozzles, jets, valves, water guns, action slide and a giant tipping bucket towering nearly two stories in the air

· Two-foot-deep, beach-entry pool

· Giant beach area with 300 new lounge chairs

· New shade canopy will provide additional respite from the summer sun

 Caribbean Cove will be situated between the between the Taak It Eez Ee Creek lazy river and Big Wave Racer slide complex and is slated to open June 2016.

  
*Infamous Super Villain Gives New Twist to Family Favorite at Six Flags Great Adventure

The chaos continues at Six Flags Great Adventure as a classic family roller coaster takes on a whole new persona in 2016. Next to The Joker, the park’s insane, new 4D, free-fly coaster currently taking shape, a sleek and serpentine coaster that has been thrilling families for more than 15 years will make her debut as Harley Quinn Crazy Train this spring.

  
“It is only fitting that this twisted makeover reunites The Joker with his partner in crime, Harley Quinn,” said Six Flags Great Adventure President John Fitzgerald. “As ultimate thrill seekers flock to our new, jaw-dropping coaster The Joker, family-sized thrills will be right next door with Harley Quinn Crazy Train.”

 Harley Quinn Crazy Train facts:

· Steel coaster reaching a maximum speed of 22 mph

· Nearly 3 story lift hill (28 feet tall)

· 1,181 feet of twisted red and black track

· 1 minute 45 seconds ride

· 20 passengers per train

· Minimum 41” tall to ride

 Harley Quinn Crazy Train is expected to roll into town by late April. For more information about the 2016 season at Six Flags Great Adventure, visit http://www.sixflags.com/greatadventure

   
 Tickets, operating hours, park information and special events can be found at http://www.sixflags.com/greatadventure

Follow on Twitter @sfgradventure

Like on Facebook at facebook.com/sixflagsgreatadventure

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. 

 
 

Bloggers Breakfast at IHOP

25 Mar

I had the pleasure of attending the  Bloggers Breakfast at IHOP. As a fan I was not passing this up. I love the fact that we can have breakfast anytime of day when I walk into IHOP. I also make breakfast for dinner at home but like to treat my family to IHOP. Have IHOP any day. Easter is also a great day to head to IHOP for brunch. Try out their amazing selection of food like pancakes, waffles, and their french toast. 

  
IHOP announced the return of their delicious Double-Dipped French Toast! This year IHOP is rolling out two new flavors, Blackberry & Vanilla, and Banana, Peanut Butter, & Chocolate. Craig Hoffman, IHOP’s International Director of Communications  and President Darren Rebelez were in attendance and spoke about IHOP’s culinary edge, the family-friendly environment that makes the restaurant a local favorite, and their commitment to serving the communities in which they operate.

   
   
IHOP restaurants are bringing back their newest innovation, Double-Dipped French Toast– soft brioche bread first dipped in vanilla batter, then dipped a second time in a coating of corn flakes and oatmeal and griddled perfectly to a crispy golden-brown, raising the bar for French toast at an affordable price. See this delicious treat by visiting: http://www.ihop.com/about-ihop/tv-commercials

Double-Dipped French Toast is yet another example of why America turns to IHOP for breakfast any time of day—and has for over 57 years. When it was introduced last summer, it became one of our most popular dishes, and guests have been eagerly awaiting its return. And it’s back in two new sweetly indulgent varieties:

• Blackberry & Vanilla – Thick slices of Brioche bread dipped in our vanilla batter, then in cornflakes and oatmeal, griddled, and topped with plump blackberries and drizzled with vanilla sauce.

• Banana, Peanut Butter & Chocolate – Thick slices of Brioche bread dipped in vanilla batter, then in cornflakes and oatmeal, griddled, and topped with sliced fresh bananas, chocolate chips and a drizzle of peanut butter sauce.

“Double-Dipped French Toast became an immediate fan favorite when we introduced it last summer, so it was a natural choice to come back to the menu in two fresh, new flavors, “ said Marie Grimm, Vice President, Menu Development and Innovation, International House of Pancakes, LLC. “The combination of the unique texture of our Double-Dipped French Toast with these exciting new ingredients will create even more fans of this terrific treat, perfect for breakfast all day or night!

Guests can enjoy two slices of hand-crafted Double-Dipped French Toast any time of day as part of a combo with eggs, done the way they like them, their choice of crispy bacon, pork sausage links or a slice of grilled ham, and IHOP restaurants’ signature golden hash browns; or as an entrée stacked three slices high.

Double-Dipped French toast will be available at participating IHOP restaurants between February 15 and April 10, 2016.

For over 57 years, International House of Pancakes, LLC has been a leader and expert in all things breakfast and a leader in family dining. The chain is highly competitive in its menu offering, serving 65 different signature, made-to-order breakfast options as well as meals under 600 calories. Beyond offering “everything you love about breakfast,” IHOP® restaurants have a wide selection of popular lunch and dinner items, as well. IHOP restaurants offer guests an affordable, everyday dining experience with warm and friendly service. As of September 30, 2015, there were 1,667 IHOP restaurants in 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as in Canada, Guatemala, Mexico, Puerto Rico, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, the Philippines, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands. IHOP restaurants are franchised and operated by Glendale, Calif.-based International House of Pancakes, LLC and its affiliates. 

I enjoyed stuffing my face and meeting with everyone and learning about why IHOP is successful and how menus and recipes are created. The food is always enjoyable. Staff was great as always since the 14th St location in NY is my regular spot anyway. Head to your local IHOP today. For more info visit: http://www.ihop.com and @ihop on Instagram and Twitter. 

  
Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was invited to attend the breakfast. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

Angry Birds Press Coverage #AngryBirdsMovie #SonyPictures 

24 Mar

How many of you are excited about the new Angry Birds movie coming to theaters in May, 2016? I am beyond excited can’t wait for my family and I to experience the life of the birds! There’s been so many promotions and events taking place since last year and I’ve been enjoying them. 

In November, 2015 the Sony Screening Room held a Birdless Thanksgiving Feast and first look at footage from The Angry Birds Screening. Producer John Cohen showed footage and explained what was happening in a scene and how Angry Birds turned into a movie. This was the first time I met John Cohen. 

     

 Who could forget the Thanksgiving Day Parade with Red (Angry Bird) front and center? We enjoy the parade every year.   

Next was an Angry Birds pre-screening hour of footage with Producer John Cohen at the Paley Center. My kids accompanied me to this and even though it wasn’t the entire movie we still had fun and couldn’t stop laughing.   

Press Junket Day was finally here. Kidz Vuz and Sony Pictures made this day possible. I knew this was going to be fun but I was still nervous. I don’t know why I nervous because I meet celebrities non-stop. It took place at The Ritz Central Park.   

I interviewed Producers John Cohen & Catherine Winder, Executive Producers Mikael Hed & David Maisel and Actors: Jason Sudeikis, Josh Gad and Maya Rudolph.  

Everyone was great. A room of bloggers met with each person and asked great questions and the Actors didn’t want to leave. They loved the bloggers and they were a pleasure to interview. Maya Rudolph and I talked about motherhood and Josh Gad asked me about my cell phone case and Jason Sudeikis told me about new projects he’s working on with the TriBeCa Film Festival and his movie Mother’s Day. Of course we also talked about Angry Birds. Every time Josh spiked I pictured Olaf from Frozen and when I looked at Maya I kept picturing her doing her Beyonce skit on SNL. She didn’t want to leave the room. Each actor enjoyed playing their part in the film. Looking forward to more animation films with these three.   

  
This Press Junket I truly did enjoy with bloggers and actors that make my job easy and enjoyable. Immediately following the press junket was International Day of Happiness at the U.N. This red carpet and ceremony was one I had to miss. From the pictures I saw looks like everyone that attended had a great time. I’ve lived in New York all of my life and never been inside the U.N. 

  
I’m ready for whatever else Sony has coming. If there’s a press trip include me in. My suitcase is ready. Thank you for all the fun I’m having promoting this film. We can’t wait to see the full movie. 

Check out hashtag #AngryBirdsMovie and @angrybirdsofficial on Instagram and @sonypictures for more info. 

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are mine 100% as always. I was invited to everything mentioned. 

Easter Recipes with Jennie-O

24 Mar

With Easter a few days away Jennie-O is going the extra mile this spring to help home cooks plan a delicious, stress-free Easter with all new themed menus (that go beyond turkey to include creative side dishes and desserts), holiday hosting how-tos and much more! The updated JennieO.com “Holidays and Events” page is the new go-to guide to help celebrate a favorite springtime tradition. 

 

You know how much I enjoy finding and creating new recipes. There are two recipes that I am going to prepare found on the website. One is the Mexican Turkey Frittata. Here is the link:  http://www.jennieo.com/recipes/971-Mexican-Turkey-Frittata 

 

The other is Deviled Eggs with Bacon and BBQ. Click this link: http://www.jennieo.com/recipes/1062-Deviled-Eggs-with-Bacon-and-BBQ 

 There’s a recipe for everything Easter, Brunch, Modern Easter Dinner, Easy Easter Dinner and even Gluten-Free.  

    
 Which recipe will you try? Check out @JennieO on Instagram and @SwitchToTurkey on Twitter. 

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are mine 100% as always. I was given product to review. 

Easter Shopping with JCPenney and Gift Card Giveaway

23 Mar

Easter Sunday is just around the corner and the whole family is hatching a plan for the perfect celebration; gathering the best recipes, catching up on Spring cleaning, plotting Easter egg hiding spots. With everything going on, finding perfect outfits for the whole family can seem like a daunting task. But, JCPenney has an amazing assortment of beautiful, bright Spring dresses from collections including Bisou Bisou and Alyx, and perfectly tailored suits from Collection by Michael Strahan. Dress up the kids in clothing from Steve Harvey, City Triangles, and Carters—all available at your local in store and online now. And, if you’re interested in items for entertaining and décor, there are amazing finds all in one place.
   
http://m.jcpenney.com/bisou-bisou-sleeveless-keyhole-bodycon-dress/prod.jump?ppId=pp5006380256&N=151%20224%20287%20508%207900&N=151%20224%20287%20508%207900&Ns=NA&Ns=NA&Nao=24&pN=2&searchTerm=easter%20dresses&topDim=Gender&topDimvalue=women&dimCombo=Gender%7CBrand%7CBrand%7CBrand%7CBrand%7C&dimComboVal=women%7Cbisou%20bisou%7Cliz%20claiborne%7Cworthington%7Cbelle%20%2B%20sky%7C&currentDim=Brand&currentDimVal=belle%20%2B%20sky&catId=SearchResults&_dyncharset=UTF-8&colorizedImg=DP1224201517020399M.TIF

http://m.jcpenney.com/alyx-sleeveless-floral-print-sheath-dress/prod.jump?ppId=pp5006332187&searchTerm=womens%20easter%20dresses&catId=SearchResults&_dyncharset=UTF-8&colorizedImg=DP0229201617050673M.TIF

  

  

http://m.jcpenney.com/bisou-bisou-sleeveless-floral-lace-stripe-sheath-dress-plus/prod.jump?ppId=pp5006630180&N=151%20224%20287%20508%201776%207900&N=151%20224%20287%20508%201776%207900&Ns=NA&Ns=NA&searchTerm=easter%20dresses&topDim=Gender&topDimvalue=women&dimCombo=Gender%7CSize%20Range%7CBrand%7CBrand%7CBrand%7CBrand%7C&dimComboVal=women%7Cplus%7Cbisou%20bisou%7Cliz%20claiborne%7Cworthington%7Cbelle%20%2B%20sky%7C&currentDim=Brand&currentDimVal=belle%20%2B%20sky&catId=SearchResults&_dyncharset=UTF-8&colorizedImg=DP0223201617022860M.TIF
  

http://m.jcpenney.com/collection-by-michael-strahan-navy-tic-suit-separates-classic-fit/prod.jump?ppId=ens6006300062&catId=cat1006510015&deptId=dept20000014&Ns=NA&Ns=NA&_dyncharset=UTF-8&colorizedImg=DP1217201517122150M.TIF

  

http://m.jcpenney.com/collection-by-michael-strahan-light-gray-plaid-suit-separates-classic-fit/prod.jump?ppId=ens6006600009&catId=cat1006510015&deptId=dept20000014&Ns=NA&Ns=NA&_dyncharset=UTF-8&colorizedImg=DP0129201617083537M.TIF
  

http://m.jcpenney.com/steve-harvey-4-pc-gradient-vest-set-boys-8-20/prod.jump?ppId=pp5006243130&catId=cat1005040061&deptId=dept20000016&_dyncharset=UTF-8&colorizedImg=DP1106201517011599M.TIF

  

http://m.jcpenney.com/city-triangles-sleeveless-floral-poplin-dress/prod.jump?ppId=pp5006510730&catId=cat1003840006&deptId=dept20023450025&Nao=24&pN=2&topDim=Product%20Type&topDimvalue=dresses&dimCombo=Product%20Type%7C&dimComboVal=dresses%7C&currentDim=Product%20Type&currentDimVal=dresses&_dyncharset=UTF-8&colorizedImg=DP0128201617045802M.TIF&urlState=%2Fspecialty-sizing%2Fplus-size%2Fshop-clothing%2Fnew-arrivals%2Fdresses%2F_%2FN-glnrwmZ1z141cr%2Fcat.jump
  

http://m.jcpenney.com/steve-harvey-4-pc-poplin-vest-set-boys-8-20/prod.jump?ppId=pp5006243133&catId=cat1005040061&deptId=dept20000016&_dyncharset=UTF-8&colorizedImg=DP1106201517011622M.TIF
 

http://m.jcpenney.com/carters-sleeveless-floral-dress-and-cardigan-set-baby-girl-newborn-24m/prod.jump?ppId=pp5006640487&catId=cat1004390038&deptId=dept20000017&_dyncharset=UTF-8&colorizedImg=DP0208201617031809M.TIF

Head to JCPenney and see the wide selection they have to offer for the entire family. 

*GIVEAWAY: I am giving away a $25 gift card to JCPenney to help you with your Easter shopping. 

*Comment below and tell me your favorite tradition on Easter with your kids. 

*Make sure you’re subscribed to my blog and following me on Instagram: @nilimo and on Twitter: @nilimonicky

*Winner will be picked Friday 3/25 and announced on social media. 

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. 

My Review of @MonsterProducts #YouDeserveBetter 

21 Mar

As a blogger, traveler and mom I am constantly on the go and so are my tablets and cell phones. Nowadays just about everyone owns a cell phone and or tablet but I don’t see lots of people with portable cell phone chargers and I always wondered why. If there’s one thing I hate its looking for an outlet. I rather keep it moving and get to where I have to go instead of searching for a place with an outlet that half the time doesn’t work or is being used. 

I was so happy when portable chargers made the scene but some were so worthless it only charged my phone half way that I would have to still find a place to charge. Was there a powerful portable charger that could handle my phone and tablet and give me more than one charge for the entire day that I was out and about?

Monster Products saved my day. I don’t leave home without my portable Monster charger. Monster Mobile PowerCard Turbo Portable Battery. Monster’s Power Card packs serious punch. Super thin, it fits into your wallet for power on the go. A great value and easy to transport, it’s perfect for quick emergency charges. 

The Power Card charges up to 3 times faster than standard USB chargers. 3 LEDs on the Power Card show your battery level and charge indicator. Use it with anything that requires USB charging. Power Card quickly provides five hours of energy to your smartphone. 

Check out the link for details: http://www.monsterproducts.com/Monster_Mobile_PowerCard_Turbo_Portable_Battery#productDetailsTabs1

  
When it comes to my music I must have the best in-ear headphones so I can hear every beat, base and word in the song I’m listening to. My headphones have to zone out background noise so I can be at peace with my music. I also don’t like in-ear headphones or earbuds that fall out of my ear. 

Monster has done it again with their Clarity HD High Definition In-Ear Headphones. I mean just the name alone should make you say I need to know more about these headphones. I don’t know how many headphones I’ve purchased in the past but I know they are no where to be seen or found. That was money wasted. I’m not saying things don’t break  or just ware out I’m saying I shouldn’t have spent all that money knowing I wouldn’t own at least one pair that I can say I’ve had longer than a month or two. 

With the Monster Clarity HD High Definition headphones I have stopped looking. These headphones have superior noise isolation that keeps the outside world out so you can focus on the music. Combined with Monster’s ControlTalk Universal in-line microphone, you can take and make crystal-clear calls and control music from any smartphone or tablet. Multiple ear tips ensure the best possible fit for any set of ears–and they won’t fall out like other earbuds. 

Look at them here: http://www.monsterproducts.com/ClarityHD-Earbuds?id=e54221d0-7ec6-4f3a-8fba-06670fde0a55#productDetailsTabs1

  
What’s a selfie without a selfie case? Selfie sticks are so banned and played out that Monster came up with a better idea. A selfie case for your IPhone that mounts to glass, mirror, acrylic, marble and other smooth, flat and glossy vertical surfaces. Special gel material functions like millions of tiny suction cups. It is also shock absorbent and impact resistant. Has high quality, flexible case body and provides improved grip. You can video chat and use GPS navigation hands free as well.

Did you see what I just wrote? It mounts to glass, mirrors, etc.. Hands free selfie case. When I first saw this demonstrated my mouth dropped. I love it and as much selfies as I take i couldn’t be more happier to own this. Want to see what I’m talking about? Here you go: http://www.monsterproducts.com/Monster-Mobile-Selfie-Case-for-iPhone?id=d60c593d-a4cb-422a-bd17-4a5ff65c8e44#productDetailsTabs1

  
Disclosure: I am a Monster Nation Reviewer. Items were given in exchange for my honest review. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

@3M Young Scientist Challenge #spon #YoungScientist

21 Mar

As a parent of a child in middle school, I am excited to generate awareness and increase submissions for the Young Scientist Challenge and bring renewed attention to the importance of STEM education using our social influence and hope you will do the same. 

Science is a big part of my kids and their school and at a recent award ceremony you should have seen how many awards were handed out in this subject. It was great to see so many kids enjoy science and the benefits that could take them far. 

  
When first launched by Discovery Communications in 1999, the Young Scientist Challenge had the same mission it does today: to foster a new generation of American scientists at an age when interest in science generally declines. In 2008, Discovery Education joined forces with 3M – one of the world’s most notable innovators – to cultivate the next generation of problem-solvers and give students the unique opportunity to work directly with 3M scientists.
The Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge is the nation’s premiere science competition for grades 5-8. Through the program, young inventors have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work closely with a 3M Scientist Mentor, compete for $25,000, and earn the title of “America’s Top Young Scientist.”

For more information on the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge, including submission guidelines, tips from previous winners and complete rules, please visit http://www.youngscientistchallenge.com. Submissions will be accepted through April 13, 2016.

  
Disclosure: This is a compensated post. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

Acure Organic Baby Products 

11 Mar

I was invited to attend Acure Baby event with Montrends and learn more about natural products for babies and kids. 

Here is a description about the company:

Acure Organics is a family owned and operated company founded on sustainable principles to provide the highest quality fair trade, natural and certified organic personal care products. Our products are created with great care and are a reflection of our values. Each of our products is free from animal testing, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, harmful preservatives and artificial colors. We travel the globe to find the most potent certified organic ingredients that meet our high standards of efficacy and purity. We thank you for sharing in our mission to have a positive impact on the world we live in.

The baby care products are just the cutest. The packaging is colorful and the name of the products are fun. Here are some of the products I took a look at:

*Yummy baby lotion which moisturizes and protects with delicious olive oil and shea butter and the soothing effects of cucumber, calendula + chamomile.

*Baby bug stick organic balm will keep those annoying bugs at bay. DEET and chemical free. 

*All better balm all-in-one quick fix for whatever is bothering baby…and you! Baby needs a rub-down? Covered. Cracked hands, chapped nose? Moisturizes and protects. Stretch marks and scars? A little smooths them over a lot! Annoying Mother-in-law? Gift her one and she will be nice and go away for a bit. Problems solved.

   
 These are just a few of the products. For more info head to http://www.acureorganics.com and @acureorganics on Twitter. 

Disclosure: This is a compensated post, opinions are mine 100% as always. 

Disney’s Zootopia Review & Behind the Scenes with Animator Darrin Butters

2 Mar

We recently attended an advanced 3D screening of Disney’s animation film Zootopia. In the city of Zootopia there’s all types of animals from every environment living together. It reminds me of New York with neighborhoods like Sahara Square and Tundratown.  

When rookie Officer Judy Hopps (voice of Ginnifer Goodwin) arrives, she discovers that being the first bunny on a police force of big, tough animals isn’t so easy. Determined to prove herself, she jumps at the opportunity to crack acase, even if it means partnering with a fast-talking, scam-artist fox, Nick Wilde (voice of Jason Bateman),to solve the mystery. 

My favorite characters were the Sloths. They’re in the DMV scene where it’s actually showing you how slow the DMV really is and the Sloths represent the workers. That was the funniest scene in my opinion. My kids enjoyed that part too. Another scene we enjoyed were the elephants in the ice cream shop. Wait till you see the giant pop that the so-called kid wanted. 

Voice Cast: Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Shakira, Idris Elba, J.K. Simmons, Nate Torrence, Jenny Slate, Tommy Chong, Octavia Spencer, Bonnie Hunt 

Hits theaters Friday, March 4, 2016

http://movies.disney.com/zootopia

@DisneyZootopia on Twitter 

I also attended a behind the scenes animation event with Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Darrin Butters. Darrin has been an animator on many of Disney’s top films including TANGLED, BOLT, WRECK IT RALPH and FROZEN. Butters began his career as an assistant animator at Walt Disney Animation Studios in September 1996. He shared exclusive clips and behind the scenes info on the upcoming ZOOTOPIA, and there was a Q&A session.

It was great to see what goes on in the making of animated films and how a persons expression can turn into something so funny when it’s shown on the big screen. Darrin Butters is a genius. His work is amazing. It was a pleasure listening and meeting him. 

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are mine 100% as always. I was invited to both events. 

   
 

My Family Weekend Getaway with Residence Inn Central Park 

26 Feb

I promised myself that 2016 would be the year of travel for my family and I. Whether it’s local or abroad we deserve to travel more and go on lots of vacations. My hometown New York is so big and things are constantly being built. I’m not one to walk looking up but I have been noticing the architecture on buildings and have found some interesting things. Sometimes I feel like a tourist in my own city especially when I attend an event in a building I know I’ve passed more than a hundred times. Honestly I like finding things because I like to help guide people to the best places my city have to offer. 

In January I attended Central Park Neighborhood Block Party at Courtyard & Residence Inn by Marriott Manhattan-Central Park. Two hotels in one building and not just any hotel, the tallest hotel in North America. I am proud to say my city has the tallest hotel in North America. How great is that? 

As I walked in I was greeted by amazing staff and directed to the Bistro which is located on the 4th floor till my event started. Drinks and food can be purchased at the Bistro and you can also grab a personal booth with a television and outlets to charge your devices. 

Later I made my way down to the 3rd floor, another spacious dining area where the event took place. I was there to meet clients, enjoy food, cocktails, live music and try to win amazing prizes. 

There were also tours of the two hotels (Courtyard & Residence Inn) that I made sure to go on. As I walked into the rooms I  was in heaven. I knew I just had to bring my family back to experience what I was seeing at that moment. 

Everything was perfect from the beds to the incredible views from the 65th floor. One side of the hotel shows views of Times Square and you can even see the New Year’s Eve ball, so if you’re looking to stay in a hotel for NYE and want to see the ball drop up close I suggest you book early. 

After the tour lots of raffles were given away. Lots of people took home very generous prizes. I won a complimentary 2-night stay at Residence Inn Central Park. You already know I was very excited because I wanted this and it was given to me. When I told my kids they were equally excited and wanted to go right away. 

I decided to go the week of my son’s birthday which also happen to be their week off from school. I took 3 of my kids and we had a great weekend together. Awaiting us in our room was popcorn, soda and candy for a fun movie night and we were also given food from the Bistro. We appreciated that so much.   

  Residence Inn Central Park is a suite-hotel with floor to ceiling windows and awesome views of NYC. There’s also free wifi and breakfast. Inside the room there’s also a microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator and freezer, coffee machine, toaster, crockpot, dishes, glassware and silverware. These suites are great for anyone staying longer than a week. It’s a home away from home. My kids said they wanted to live there. We loved the dishwasher. We all took turns using it. I did shopping in the area and made use of the refrigerator and microwave. My son enjoyed popping his popcorn in the microwave.  

 We watched movies, ate lots of food, had pillow fights, played cards and made shadow figures on the ceiling. We also took pictures outside like tourists, did grocery shopping and enjoyed the weather. We all loved waking up to the beautiful views of New York from the 42nd floor.  

 A full American Breakfast is served on the 3rd floor from 7-10a.m., Saturday and Sunday and 6:30-9:30a.m. Monday thru Friday. They have everything from coffee, tea, juice, scrambled eggs, french toast, sausage, muffins, bagels, oatmeal, cereal, potatoes, fruit, biscuits, waffles that you can make yourself in the waffle maker which my kids enjoyed doing. If you miss breakfast you can head to the Bistro for Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner, drinks and Starbucks Coffee.   

  The fitness center, sky terrace seasonal outdoor space, ice machine and guest laundromat is located on the 35th floor. Happy hour is from 4-7p.m. in the Bistro 7 days a week.  
 There’s so much to do in the area. Times Square is not far away and you can catch a Broadway Play, go shopping, and take plenty of pictures with all the lights that are so bright up and down Times Square. Also across from the hotel is talk show The Late Show. I don’t know how far in advance you should put in a request for tickets but if you happen to be in town when you do get tickets enjoy! There might even be standby tickets available if you ask.  

 We didn’t want the weekend to end and the kids are ready to return. Our home away from home will always be with Residence Inn no matter where we travel. Thank you for a great weekend getaway Residence Inn.  

 For more info check out @residenceinncentralpark on Instagram. Here is the link to the website : http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/nycpr-residence-inn-new-york-manhattan-central-park/

Disclosure: I won a 2-night stay at Residence Inn. I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

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