LIVE with Ford Motor Company for a sneak peek at the all-new redesigned 2020 Ford Escape. The crossover SUV gets an all new lighter, sportier and streamlined look. Ford Escape Titanium model is featured in this video. Available Fall 2019.
Satellite images show Southern California’s super bloom from space
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The WorldView-2 satellite took photos on March 19 of Walker Canyon Poppy Fields hillsides. The satellite images show the mountains covered in orange poppies. What a spectacular view.
Click image below for larger view.
WorldView-2 satellite photo of Walker Canyon Poppy Fields
Related: Best Places To See California Wildflowers Super Bloom
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge | Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort Opening Dates
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SAVE the Date! Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge theme park lands open in Disneyland on May 31 and at Walt Disney World on Aug. 29.
In Phase One, the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run ride and most of the shops and restaurants will be fully operational, Rise of the Resistance will be opened in Phase Two.
Tech Thursday Tips | Why You Should Use Paperless Post App
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Disclosure: This is a sponsored post in partnership with Paperless Post. However, All opinions are my own.
I’ve been looking for an easier way to send out invitations and thank you notes. I recently reviewed the Paperless Post app and found that it is very innovative and easy to use. Paperless post is an events platform with beautiful invitations for every occasion and smart online planning tools to help make gathering easier.
Paperless post provides an easier way to design and send out greeting cards, invitations and gather with friends. Paperless posts is so innovative it also enables you to organize, schedule sending, followup and track the event from your desktop or phone. It also lets you select customizable templates to fit your needs, personalize every details including the font and layout and track the status of your events with an inbox. Paperless post designs are worth celebrating.
One of my favorite features of Paperless posts is the designer stationary with envelopes. They have lots of colors and designs to choose from. My current favorites are the floral cards. They bring a smile to my friends and family every time I send one.
The best feature of Paperless Post is that you can use the app on your desktop or on your phone. Check my Paperless Post Instagram story highlights for videos on how easy it is to use the App.
I recently used the Paperless Post app to send a Thank you card and Greeting Card to my family. It was so easy to design the card, add a background and send. It takes less than 2 minutes to send stunning cards. I love Paperless post!
You are invited to see the latest invitations, thank you cards, love notes and more, designed exclusively for paperless posts. Consider planning your next adventure or event with Paperless posts. For more information visit www.paperlesspost.com
Best Places To See California Wildflowers Super Bloom
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Updated 4/07/2019
Rain brings Second Super Bloom in Two years
Wondering where the best places to see California Wildflowers Super bloom? With the recent combination of cold weather, heat and heavy rains we are in the middle of Wildflower Super blooms all over the Southland again this year. Every year between the months of February thru May, the California Wildflowers season blooms in desert and coastal areas. We normally get super blooms once a decade, but with the abundance of water and the perfect amount of sunlight, we have two super blooms within a 2 year period.
It has been a spectacular wildflower season in Southern California, especially the desert areas of Lake Elsinore, Chino Hills, Borrego Springs, and Antelope Valley. These places might be the best spot for a camping adventure to witness the splendid beauty of nature. However, before embarking on the journey, it would be recommended that you make a well-thought-out plan. For instance, you need to decide your mode of transportation. If you are travelling with your family, then instead of a car, consider choosing a recreational vehicle. Since they are spacious and have kitchens and washrooms, it could be easier to accommodate the needs of your family. The best part, however, is that you can hire an rv moving service for transporting your vehicle in case of emergencies.
Nevertheless, if you are travelling alone, a motorcycle could be more beneficial to you. You need only equip it with racks for loading your camping gear. Anyway, whatever, the choice of vehicle, it is imperative that you buy all the essential things from the outdoor gear store for your onward journey and camping activity. Also, make sure that you check the local laws governing the state, for camping regulations. Here is the list of the best places to visit California Wildflower super bloom:
Best places to see California wildflower super blooms
Antelope Valley California Poppy Preserve
The 1800 acre state park is currently in full bloom. The winter rains have created an abundance of picturesque wild flowers in the Antelope Valley desert, but nothing as spectacular as the Poppy reserve. Make it a day trip and visit the 8 mile poppy reserve during the 2019 California Poppy Festival which is scheduled for April 27-28, 2019. The Festival is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days, and takes place rain or shine!
This area is also kid-friendly. However, do not bring your dogs. There are a lot of rules at this park, but they are worth it because they help protect and preserve the poppies. Stay on the trails. Do not pick the flowers. Photos in the flowers are not allowed. The fragrance of poppies is in the air.
Entrance cost is $10 per car. The park offers shaded picnic tables and restrooms. The best restrooms are located at the visitor center. Be prepared for strong winds. Check weather and forecast for wind and gust weather advisories. Visit the poppy preserve anytime during the months of March and April to view the beautiful Southern California poppies in bloom. Antelope Valley California Poppy Preserve Park is open from sunrise to sunset.
Anza Borrego Desert State Park
Anza Borrego Desert State Park’s superbloom is currently in full effect. The perfect combination of rain, heat and terrain conditions cover barren landscape areas with a canopy of wildflowers forming colorful fields of flowers called Super blooms.
The superbloom in Anza Borrego desert is spectacular. With the recent rains there is a burst of color across the desert. The Superbloom typically only comes every ten years, but this is the second time in 2 years the Superbloom has returned. This years superbloom is expected to be more spectacular than the last. Anza Borrego Desert State Park has trails, camping groups, water falls, bighorn sheep and wildflower preserves. The March and April bloom are expected to cover most of the park. Check the Anza Borrego Wildflower updates for exact dates. Check the State park site for details on camping reservations. This area is also kid-friendly.
There is water and tables. There is some shaded areas. There are restrooms. Cost per car is $10. Senior Discounts.
Make sure to download the ABDNHA Wildflower Map for best locations before you go to Anza Borrego to find Superblooms inside and outside the park in surrounding areas. Treat yourself to a self tour of the 130 Galleta Meadows Metal sculptures as well.
Chino Hills State Park
Chino Hills State Park is a state park of California, in the United States. It is located in the Chino Hills, foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains. The hidden gem is popular for its Wild Flowers trails in Chino Hills State Park with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Facilities consist of a picnic area, camping sites, equestrian staging area and corrals, a historic barn, water and restrooms.
To see the wildflowers pay the entrance fee, drive about 2 miles to the HORSE CAMP sign and park your car. The poppies are located on Bane Ridge Trail. Protect wildlife and plants by staying on designated trails. If you are into running, this might be a great place to use your trail running gear. The park closes at 5 pm so plan your trip accordingly to allow enough time to see the poppy flowers and leave before the park closes.
Crafton Hills
The hills near Crafton Hills Community College are covered with flowers. The flower bloom is located on Sand Canyon Rd in Yucaipa, California. There is also several hiking trails at Crafton Hills Preserve. If you live near Yucaipa, you must get out and see them.
Death Valley National Park
Don’t go to Death Valley looking for a Superbloom this year. Due to less than normal rainfall its unlikely a Super bloom is expected in Spring 2019. Check the forecast on the State park site to check the conditions for the Southern California wildflowers superbloom. However, stay tuned. If we see any wildflower sightings we’ll update here.
Related: 2019 Travel Guide – Roadtrip to Temecula Winery Getaway
Diamond Valley Lake
The Lakeview trail and seasonal wildflower trails are in full bloom. In addition to the California poppies, deep blue arroyo lupines, purple canterbury bells, yellow rancher’s fiddleneck, white popcorn flowers, and pink red maid the lake also has 16 species of birds and plants. The flowers are expected to reach peak bloom mid-March thru beginning of April. Best time to see the poppies is from 9am-3pm.
Diamond Valley lake amenities include hiking trails, boat rentals, fishing and lake views. The seasonal Wildflower 1.3 mile loop trail is currently open Wednesday thru Sunday and is accessible via the Diamond Valley Marina with a $10 entrance per car. The Wildflowers are in full bloom. There is also a $3 fee per person to enter trails.
Entrance Cost: $10 entrance. $3 per person to enter trails. Senior and Veteran Discounts. Open from 6am-4:30am before March 10. After Daylight savings, park hours change to 6am-5:30am. Entry to park is denied 1 hour prior to closing.
Walker Canyon Trail
The Walker Canyon Trail Poppy Fields super bloom has ended. There are still poppies at Walker Canyon, but the color is not as vibrant.
Due to popularity of the superbloom and recent rains during the month of February and March, this years bloom has made this superbloom the best one yet. We’ve never seen so many poppies in this area. There are two recommended trails at Walker Canyon located off of Lake Street on Interstate 15 (I-15) and Walker Cayon. There are multiple trails at Walker Canyon, including a hike near the creek, but the favorites are at the corner of Lake Street & Walker Cayon and further down Walker Canyon. If this is your first time recommend we recommend you stay on either of the two main trails.
Due to the steep hills at the entrance of the main Walker Canyon trails this is not a kid-friendly trail. If you are looking for a place to take photos with your children consider driving further along side Walker Canyon road and take photo of the wildflowers on side of the road. The state park rangers have opened a section at the end of Walker Canyon at the base of the trail to take photos. The section is located next to the cellular tower.
There are porta potties along Walker Canyon Rd. There is no water. There are no shaded areas. There are no built in restroom facilities. There are no seating areas or tables.
Weekend Visitors: Walker Canyon Trail Lake Street exits are closed during the weekend due to popularity of the Poppy Fields. All weekend visitors MUST use the shuttle service provided. Two parking areas will be offered. All Visitors exit Nichols Rd. NB visitors exit right to the Dirt Lot Parking Area. Check City of Lake Elsinore – City Hall Facebook page for current updates on road closures & shuttle services during the weekend. Check Lake Elsinore Superbloom for details on changes to view superbloom. Weekend Shuttle Service: $10 per person
Weekday Visitors: No cost parking is available along Walker Canyon Road. For safety and compliance, a Lake Elsinore Sheriff Station Community Services Officer (CSO) will be on site Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. to assist with traffic. Parking will be available during the week. All available parking is parallel parking only. Check site for map of trail and parking availability. Parking & Entrance Cost: Free
Related: Satellite images show Southern California’s super bloom from space
White Water Preserve
Whitewater Preserve has scenic desert hiking along the Pacific Crest Trail near Palm Springs. White Water Preserve is closed until further notice. Whitewater Canyon Road has been severly damaged from recent storms rendering it impassible. White Water Preserve will re-open once the county repairs the road and determines it safe for public use. Kid friendly areas.
Tech Life Wildflower Tips
Plan ahead. Wildflowers are no longer just a local attraction. Visitors are taking 3-9 hour road trips, planning weekend trips and visiting from far away. If you are planning to visit the wildflower super blooms this year wear comfortable shoes, wear layers of clothing, carry 1 or 2 bottles of water, hydrate and stay on the trails. Consider packing a lunch to avoid the huge crowds. However, local business really appreciate the business. Most wildflower preserves have kid friendly areas, but keep your eyes out for critters. Take lots of photos. Spending time with nature is healing so don’t forget to put your phone and camera down from time to time and take it all in.
Consider using Paperless Post to coordinate your next wildflower adventure!
Happy Hiking!
* This post is updated weekly during wildflower season. Make sure to bookmark and check this post annually for updates.
Related: 2019 Travel Guide – Rejuvenating Our Souls with a Pacific Crest Trail Hike
Related: Pics of 2019 Super bloom
Related: NASA Aircraft Captures Images Over Antelope Valley, California’s Superbloom
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge | Behind the Scenes at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort
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Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is opening summer 2019 at Disneyland Resort and fall 2019 at Walt Disney World Resort and we have a preview!
Get ready to take control of the fastest ship in the galaxy on Millennium Falcon and to come face to face with Kylo Ren at Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance a galaxy far far away.
Jennifer Lopez Interview About Second Act | Tech Life Magazine
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Jennifer Lopez, Leah Remini and Director Peter Segal sat down with Tech Life Magazine to talk life, friendship, movie making and Second Act movie.
Second Act is a movie of an outer-borough hard working Queens, New York girl who is trying to fulfill her dreams by trying to convince her chain’s CEO to promote her. Until, that is, she gets the chance to prove to Madison Avenue that street smarts are as valuable as book smarts, and that it is never too late for a Second Act.
Second Act movie stars Jennifer Lopez, Leah Remini, Milo Ventimiglia and Vanessa Hudgens. Jennifer Lopez stars as Maya, a 43-year-old woman who is trying to reinvent herself. She hopes to convince her chains CEO that she is qualified to be the boss. After failing to obtain a long anticipated promotion at work, she uses a fake social media profile to land a job in Manhattan. Her real life ride-or-die bestie, Leah Remini stars as Joan, Maya’s pep talking, sassy, supportive best friend. Joan is a badass mom who calls her bestie on her BS and is comfortable in her own skin, just like real life BFFs do.
Leah Remini and Jennifer Lopez star in SECOND ACT.
Five Things You Should Know Before Watching Second Act
- Jennifer Lopez only envisioned Milo Ventimiglia for “Trey’s” role. Milo Ventimiglia and Jennifer Lopez have great on-screen chemistry, REAL good chemistry. According to Jennifer Lopez he was the only person she envisioned in the role. According to Jennifer Lopez, the cast was very busy, but once Milo Ventimiglia read the script and spoke with Jennifer, they knew he just had to do the film. “Ventimiglia was filming the hit NBC show in Los Angeles at the same time shooting for Second Act began. Scheduling his scenes wasn’t easy, but it all worked out in the end.” said Jennifer Lopez. The relationship between Maya and Trey is so powerful, you can feel it.
- Jennifer Lopez and Leah Remini are REAL life besties. When Jennifer Lopez and Leah Remini walked into the room, they were smiling, laughing and holding hands. They are real life BFFs. Second Act is Leah Remini’s first major film and first film Jennifer Lopez and she have done together. As Jennifer read the script for the role of Joan she could only envision her real life Bestie Leah Remini in the role of Joan. According to Leah Remini, “A lot of it was our real relationship, and we were lucky enough to have a director who allowed us to play, and allowed us to, you know, I say I’m going to do a little something, and I also know Jennifer, she has a pretty large resume, and she’s worked with some A list actors, I’m not that kind of actor. What you’re seeing is just me being me, and then Jennifer reacting to Leah being Leah, and he allowed it.” Director Peter Segal adds, “When we had a little get together at her apartment, we just read through the script, and I got to see what their real-life relationship is like. These guys are like sisters. You start throwing out some joke at her that, “Oh wow”, and she just like zing them right back, and that’s when I encouraged her, I said, “You got to do this on the set.” She kind of took the bit in her mouth and went maybe a little too far with the slapping scene. But she did that alright, but that was them.” Leah adds, “The film you’re seeing is just a lot of like slice of life, real love, real respect, real–like some real things.” The relationship between Maya and Joan is relatable for everyone, especially women.
- Second Act is a Love Letter to Manhattan. Shooting Second Act was a dream come true for the Director, Peter Segal. “It was a bucket list of mine, not only to shoot a love letter to Manhattan, but also to do it during the Holiday season,” said Segal. “Everything from Central Park, to Grand Central Station to downtown at the 4 World Trade Center, to the Brooklyn Bridge, to Queens (where my dad grew up), to Long Island City was shot in the areas I grew up,” adds Segal. One of Segal’s favorite scenes was shot at Michael Jordan’s The Steak House NYC. Maya, Zoe and her dad are having lunch when Maya’s friends pop up. Other locations included Bethesda Fountain in Central Park, Food Bazaar in Queens, Rockefeller Center, the Villard Mansion at the Lotte New York Palace Hotel, Dean & Deluca’s, inside the Metropolitan Transportation Authority subway car and an elevated train platform. The glamorous Franklin & Clarke Christmas party sequence was filmed at Bar 65 on the 65th floor at 30 Rock. Is there a ” Second Act Movie Love Letter To Manhattan Map”? There are so many amazing locations in the movie you’ll want to map out the locations and go on a tour.
- Jennifer Lopez co-produced the movie. One of the most interesting aspects of this movie is that Jennifer Lopez co-produced the movie with Plain Goldsmith-Thomas. As a co-producer she was heavily involved in Second Act movie, including casting, watching and working closely together on all the scenes. Patricia Field was able to create a wardrobe for Maya to give her styles and identities. According to Jennifer, “We called it the Queens’ Maya and the Manhattan Maya. And Pat Field and I worked very closely together. She’s obviously from “Sex in the City”, and thousands of other things, and movies. And I just felt that she would bring a color to this movie that would stand out. And that’s what I wanted, and she did an amazing job. We really had a good time creating the Maya character.” With [screenwriter] Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas as my producing partner [we] came up with the spark of an idea, kind of a Working Girl, It’s a Wonderful Life, outer-borough woman who was in her forties and was thinking her life was over,” the Second Act star Jennifer Lopez shares in her interview.
- Sia wrote “Limitless”, song for the movie and her daughter is in the Music Video. The mantra for Second Act is, “the only thing stopping you is you”, said Jennifer Lopez. “You don’t have to hide. You really can just let all those feelings go.” “You get to reinvent, you get to evolve, you get to have another day every single day you wake up.” She adds that “That was really the basis of the film. And then kind of putting all these colorful characters together to tell this story that, well, it’s not over till it’s over at the end of the day.” According to Jennifer, Sia wrote a song for the movie which captivate these feelings. “The song that Sia wrote, was also, not a baby anymore, it’s about limitless, that’s what she saw when–she wanted to write when she saw this movie. And it is that because you have to get to a point where you have the experience to get to that feeling of like, “Oh yes!” And understand that power that you have.” The video for Limitless, the anthem for Second Act music video and Jennifer Lopez’ life. The music video is directed by Jennifer Lopez and also stars her 10 year old daughter. Limitless excerpt:
I told myself I had to be a different someone
In order to win at a war I had already won
Yeah, I’d given up on the saying “I’ll never give up”
But look at me now
Yeah, look at me, I’m limitless (I’m limitless)
Yeah, look at me, I’m limitless (I’m limitless)
-Jennifer Lopez
Song: Limitless written by Jennifer Lopez
Second Act is a relatable film about second chances, authenticity, reinvention and not giving up. It is a film about women empowering each other and themselves. Its about going for the dream, no matter your background, age or zipcode. Its a movie about change.
If you have ever experienced a setback, if you are in the process of your Second Act or planning your next move in your career or life, you need to see this movie. It’s much more than just a romantic comedy, it’s movie that comes to life. Second Acts is in theaters December 21.
For additional information visit Official Site.
Thanks to STXfilms for the invitation.
See you at the Movies!
Hollywood Entertainment Technology Festival
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Hollywood Entertainment Technology Festival
The 2018 Hollywood Entertainment Technology Festival will be hosted at Arc Light Cinemas studios on October 3, 2018. The 2018 entertainment event promotes networking, collaboration and innovation on a global scale, and serves as an ideal platform for visionaries, content creators, entrepreneurs, and investors currently working in – or interested with – the US-China landscape of entertainment technology. Global trends and innovation in entertainment has created opportunities for the entertainment industry to unite and collaborate on projects.
Speakers
You will hear from entertainment executives, thought leaders, entrepreneurs and experts in the industry including:
- Robert Stromberg: Co-founder & CCO at The Virtual Reality Company
- Joanna Popper: Global Head of Virtual Reality for LBE at HP
- Amy Peck : Founder & CEO at EndeavorVR
- Marcie Jastrow: SVP of Immersive Media at Technicolor Experience Center
- Charlie Fink: AR/VR Consultant, Forbes Columnist
- Erik Murphy-Chutorian: Founder & CEO at 8th Wall
- Kourtney Kang: Former Writer/Co-Executive Producer for Fresh Off The Boat
- Ramon Hermann: Director of Esports at Tencent America
Sessions and Panels
The festival sessions includes keynotes, fire-side chats and panel discussions on the following topics:
- Diversity: Asian Representation in Hollywood
- Creating Immersive Stories with New Technology
- eSports
- Determining Box Office Success with Big Data
- Location-Based Entertainment
- Blockchain for Entertainment
- Advances in AR (Augmented Reality) Technology
- Themed Entertainment
We’re looking forward to the discussion on whether or not Big Data can determine a Box Office Success, the Immersive Stories with New Technology fire side chat and the session on Location-Based Entertainment which discusses how location-based technologies are driving tourism and creating one of a kind entertainment experiences. Can immersive stories with technology bring stories to life? Can data really tell filmmakers what audiences will enjoy? Can statistics predict a hit movie? Join the Hollywood Entertainment Technology Festival to find the answer to these questions as well as the trends which will impact the future of Hollywood Entertainment.
For additional details on the event and sessions, visit Hollywood Entertainment Technology Festival.
SoCal Summer Guide | Monster Jam Triple Threat Series and Ticket Giveaway
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We’ve added Monster Jam Triple Threat Series to our SoCal SUMMER GUIDE because its a fun-filled event for all family members to enjoy. The cars, the athlete and adrenaline-charged competition make for a perfect summer event for families.
Here is a sneak preview of what to expect at the Monster Jam Experience:
After five record-breaking stadium events playing to packed crowds at Angel Stadium earlier this year, Monster Jam is revving its way up to Downtown Los Angeles! Monster Jam has an all-new adrenaline filled, action-packed weekend of events for the first time ever at STAPLES CENTER.
The Monster Jam athletes will also be going head-to-head in a points-based format with seven different competitions driving three customized high-powered vehicles: the larger-than-life 12,000 lb. Monster Jam trucks, Monster Jam Speedsters and Monster Jam ATVs. We can’t wait for Monster Jam Triple Series to come to Staples Center in LA!
Monster Jam Triple Threat Series Athletes
Monster Jam Triple Threat Series features eight of the most intense Monster Jam athletes
BLUE THUNDER – Travis Groth
EL TORO LOCO – Mark List
GRAVE DIGGER – Brandon Vinson
MAX-D – Jared Eichelberger
MEGALODON – Justin Sipes
MONSTER MUTT DALMATIAN – Cynthia Gauthier
WONDER WOMAN – Collete Davis
ZOMBIE – Tyler Groth
*TRUCKS/DRIVERS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
We’re looking forward to the Grave Digger, Meg and Wonder Woman. However, every athlete has a unique story which is why so many of them are fan favorites.
Monster Jam Triple Threat Series Event Details
STAPLES CENTER
1111 S. Figueroa St.
Los Angeles, CA 90015
Dates
August 17 – August 19
Location
STAPLE CENTER
Monster Jam Triple Threat Series Ticket Giveaway
To celebrate Monster Jam Triple Threat Series upcoming event in Los Angeles we are giving away a FAMILY 4-PAK to attend on Sunday, August 19th. If you win, your family will receive 4 tickets to attend the event. Want to win tickets to join in on all of the Monsterjam fun? Enter the giveaway to win:
2021 Travel Guide | National Parks Park FREE Dates
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National Park Service announced the park fee-free dates at our National Parks. With over 400 National parks, it difficult to just pick one favorite park. There are the majestic views of Yellowstone National Park and the beautiful landscape of White Sands National Park to name a few.
Park fee-free dates are great for day trips or weekend trips with your families.
The 2019 Park fee-FREE dates are as follows:January 21: Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.
- January 20: Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday
- April 18: First day of National Park Week
- August 25: National Park Service Birthday
- September 26: National Public Lands Day
- November 11: Veterans Day
Start planning your 2020 day, weekend or vacations in 2020 around these dates!
Photo Credit: Eva Smith
*Updated 1/20/2020
