Your Guide to Treats and Eats Galore During Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort

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September 15, 2017

Disneyland park, Disney California Adventure park and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort are all in on the frightfully delightful family fun during Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort, September 15 through October 31.

There are plenty of ways to celebrate this happily haunted season, so we’re giving you this compendium of Halloween-inspired treats and eats to help you navigate both parks and the hotels. There’s everything from Mummy Macarons to candied apples and Creole-spiced shrimp with cheese grits. Chart your course!

Disneyland Park

Main Street, U.S.A.

Main Street cappuccino cart: Assorted Halloween-inspired donuts
Carnation Café: Spicy Chicken Sandwich – Sriracha-glazed fried chicken topped with Pepper Jack cheese and slaw on a brioche bun
Jolly Holiday Bakery Café
- Mickey-Shaped Mummy Macaron – A white chocolate macaron with white chocolate drizzle and chocolate-salted caramel filling
- S’mores Bar

Fantasyland

Red Rose Tavern: Enchanted Maize Flatbread with mozzarella, roasted corn, pickled red onions, Parmesan, spicy lime aïoli and chopped cilantro

Frontierland

Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante: Barbacoa Torta and Chips with seasoned beef, guacamole mayo, refried beans, tomato, lettuce and cotija cheese
Stage Door Café
- Campfire S’Mores Funnel Cake with chocolate-chile ganache and toasted marshmallow sauce, garnished with graham cracker crumbs and crushed peanut butter candy

New Orleans Square

Café Orleans: Shrimp & Grits with Creole-spiced shrimp and cheese grits, spiced sausage-fava bean-corn relish and shrimp sauce
French Market Restaurant: Oogie Boogie dessert – A dark chocolate cup filled with layers of dark chocolate mousse, green pound cake and chocolate cookie crumbles with gummy worms
Mint Julep Bar: Dreamsicle Beignets

Critter Country

Hungry Bear Restaurant
- Bison Blue Cheese Burger with candied bacon, sautéed mushrooms, baby kale and blue cheese tarragon sauce on a whole wheat ciabatta with fries
- Milk and Hunny Funnel Cake

Adventureland

Bengal Barbecue: Lamb Kofta – Lamb with tzatziki sauce, spinach and pickled onions on grilled pita bread

Tomorrowland

Galactic Grill: Spider Parfait
Redd Rockett’s Pizza Port
- Meatball Pizza with sliced meatballs, marinara, olives, roasted red peppers and pepperoncini
- Spider Parfait

Disney California Adventure Park

Buena Vista Street

Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Café: Sleepy Hollow Cupcake
Clarabelle’s Hand Scooped Ice Cream
- Bat Wing Raspberry Sundae -White chocolate-raspberry swirl ice cream with raspberry splatter, blood-red sprinkles, whipped cream and Bat Wing cookie
- Spider Silk Ice Cream Sandwich – A black macaron with charcoal-tart cherry spun ice cream topped with popping candy and raspberry sauce
- Carthay Circle Restaurant and Carthay Lounge: Poison Apple-Tini – Crown Royal Apple, Dekuyper and cranberry juice with Green Poison Apple glow cube

Grizzly Peak

Smokejumpers Grill: Green Apple Spell Lemonade with cherry drops

Pacific Wharf

Pacific Wharf Café
- Pumpkin Raisin Bread Pudding
- Bacon Cheddar Ale Soup
- Anchor Blood Orange Blonde
- Sierra Nevada Oktoberfest

Pacific Wharf Distribution Co.: Karl Strauss Oktoberfest Handcrafted Beer
Boudin Bread Cart: Pumpkin-shaped bread

Paradise Pier

Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta
- Cheeseburger Pizza (September)
- Anti-Vampire Pizza (October)
Bayside Brews: Karl Strauss Oktoberfest Handcrafted Beer
Paradise Pier Ice Cream Company
- Vanilla-orange swirl ice cream
- Orange ice cream
Corn Dog Castle: Spicy Pepper Jack Cheese Stick dipped in corn batter, drizzled with blackberry sauce and topped with sweet pineapple salsa, pickled serranos and crushed cheese puffs
Cove Bar
- “Ghost”-ly Pepper Nachos – Ghost pepper-marinated flank steak with green tortilla chips, topped with ghost pepper cheese sauce, black beans and avocado-tomatillo salsa
- Halloween Specialty Cocktail

Hollywood Land

Award Wieners (beginning September 29)
- Gladiator Funnel Cake Fries topped with diced mangoes in a passionfruit-orange-guava sauce, whipped cream and chile-lime sugar
- In celebration of “Thor: Ragnarok” – A hero-size all-beef hot dog on a “lightning struck” black bun with apple slaw, beet & onion slaw and a mighty serving of mustard crema and green onions, served with our “award worthy” Filmstrip Fries
- North Coast PranQster Golden Ale
- Barq’s Red Cream Ale (non-alcoholic)

Schmoozies
- Monstermallow Donut – Flaky donut with marshmallow filling
- Mummy Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich – Almond macaron shell with dark chocolate “eyes” drizzled with white chocolate and filled with rainbow sherbet
- Caramel Apple Smoothie – Fresh apple, caramel and ice cream

Studio Catering Co.: In celebration of Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark, Dragon’s Breath Tacos – Pork belly tacos, Korean barbecue sauce, kimchi slaw and Sriracha aioli

Studio Bar
- Limited-time beers of the Halloween season from Stone, Ballast Point and Blue Moon
- Festive cocktail concoctions, including margaritas, spicy ciders and micheladas
- Fun non-alcoholic lemonades and ciders for all ages

Cars Land

Flo’s V-8 Café
- Car-achnid Pot Pie – Chicken pot pie with dried cranberries and butter-crust spider
- Grape “Ghoul”-ant Shake
- Mini Candy Cone Pie – A cream pie with vanilla, butterscotch and white chocolate pudding
Fillmore’s Taste-In: Vampire Mater Bread
Cozy Cone Motel
- Slow Burnin’ Mac & Cheese Cone – Fresh-cooked pasta with spicy red pepper cheese sauce topped with crushed chile-cheese puffs, served in a Black Cauldron Cone
- Spoke-y Cone Macaron filled with marshmallow buttercream and candy corn
- Junkyard JamBOOree Mix – Choice of flavored popcorn with optional “nuts and bolts” (e.g., green M&M’s, candy corn, chocolate-covered pretzels, Boston baked beans, etc.)

Disneyland Hotel

Steakhouse 55: “Trick or Tea” served noon to 3 p.m. from September 15 to October 29 and on October 31
The Coffee House: Caramel apple cider

And for just a little sweet treat throughout the Disneyland Resort – at the Hunny Spot in Pooh Corner and Candy Palace on Main Street, U.S.A., in Disneyland park; and Trolley Treats at Disney California Adventure Park:

Candied apples, cake pops, and crispies featuring popular characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Jack Skellington and Disney Villains including the Evil Queen, Malificent and Oogie Boogie.
Pumpkin fudge
Pecan praline fudge

Churro Carts in both Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park:

Purple, green and orange-colored churros
Sour Watermelon Churro (only in Frontierland and New Orleans Square in Disneyland park)
Graham Cracker Churro with Marshmallow-Chocolate Dipping Sauce (only in Critter Country in Disneyland park)
Galactic Churro (only in “a bug’s land” at Disney California Adventure park)

Throughout Disneyland Resort:

Candy corn cotton candy
Pumpkin muffin
Pumpkin spice latte
Pumpkin cheesecake
Bat cookies
Mickey Bat cookies

‘Cars’ Characters in Car-stume for Haul-O-Ween

By

Socalthrills Staff

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September 15, 2017

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort is expanding into Disney California Adventure park, bringing the first-ever Haul-O-Ween in Cars Land. The residents of Radiator Springs are getting into the spirit, decorating each of their establishments and even donning their own car-stumes!

Lightning McQueen is already a super hero to race fans, and his car-stume reflects that. Here he is next to the scare-car which makes its Haul-O-Ween debut this year.

Mater may not have a trunk, but that won’t stop him from trunk-or-treating in his vampire costume.

Come see these and more “Cars” characters in their car-stumes during Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort, September 15 through October 31!

New Trailer Debut – Disney•Pixar’s “Coco”

By

Robbie Bulus

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September 13, 2017

Despite his family’s baffling generations-old ban on music, Miguel (voice of newcomer Anthony Gonzalez) dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz (voice of Benjamin Bratt). Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead following a mysterious chain of events. Along the way, he meets charming trickster Hector (voice of Gael García Bernal), and together, they set off on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history.

U.S. Release Date: November 22, 2017

Voice Cast: Gael García Bernal, Anthony Gonzalez, Benjamin Bratt, Renée Victor, Ana Ofelia Murguía, Jaime Camil, Sofía Espinosa, Luis Valdez, Lombardo Boyar, Edward James Olmos, Alanna Ubach, Selene Luna, Alfonso Arau, Herbert Siguenza, Octavio Solis, Gabriel Iglesias, Cheech Marin, Blanca Araceli
Director: Lee Unkrich
Co-director: Adrian Molina
Producer: Darla K. Anderson

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time Review

By

Joel Covey

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September 13, 2017

The 2015 Tony Award-winning, including Best New Play, sensation that is THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME has made its Orange County debut at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa! This touring production takes its cues from its Broadway and West End counterparts and delivers it to our doorstep. Curious Incident is a technical masterpiece that immerses its audience into another one’s mind combining masterful sound mixing and sagacious staging with an intricate story and powerful acting into a one-of-a-kind play. This inventive stage production shows the revelations of life through another’s sophisticated perspective and leaves us understanding that life isn’t so clear cut while remaining optimistic of our own future.

Based off the 2003 best-selling mystery novel by author Mark Haddon, Simon Stephens’ adaptation of THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME takes theatergoers on a heart-pounding journey within the realm of a 15-year-old boy on the autism spectrum. Staying vague on the boy’s actual disorder, Curious Incident stays grounded; the story is more concerned with the life-lessons learned and how others cope with them.

Christopher Boone, our leading man played by Julliard graduate ADAM LANGDON (Benjamin Wheelwright on select performances), must battle through life’s challenges without the social skills necessary to interpret certain situations. Known for disliking metaphors since he considers them technically lies in his book, figuratively and literally, Christopher goes on his own hunt for answers as he plays detective to identify the murderer of his neighbor’s dog, Wellington. Along his hunt, Christopher is introduced to new troubling discoveries that only make his decision making even more challenging.

Dealing with severe relationship issues with his own parents, Christopher is seen persevering through his Aspergers-like challenges, all while taking matters into his own hands. Through each step along the way, the set design is presented as though we are viewing the inner-workings of the child’s mind. A creatively intricate production and set design is masked by a seemingly simplistic set at first glance. Through the power of lighting, sound, high-tech projections, and imaginative lit cubes, they all cumulate together allowing for an original theatergoing experience like no other!

It’s important to remember that this is solely a play, not a musical. With that in mind, the lack of singing allows for us to suspend our disbelief further and enter into Christopher’s world with a little less hesitation. Loud jolting noises and lighting cues help mimic Christopher’s reactions in our own head in relation to his nervous breakdowns and other challenges faced being on the autism spectrum. This is of course all interpretive, but does the trick very well.

Curious Incident can be troubling. It is loud, it is uncomfortable… at times. However, this is all done with good reason. Insanely powerful performances by the leading actors, including a standout performance by Langdon as Christopher, creates an attachment to these characters even if your families aren’t similar. The play dives into the gray areas of family relationships and delivers an understanding that no one is perfect.

Lying is not an option for Christopher, but there will be times he will be lied to for his own protection, even if it’s wrong. These daily conundrums can be quite relatable, but in the end, Curious Incident teaches us that we must find understanding of one another. Ultimately, it is a thought provoking play that doesn’t just leave you with one underlying theme. Instead, it welcomes a new outlook on life.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is now playing at Segerstrom Center for the Arts through Sunday 9/17.

Visit SCFTA.org for more information.

The Disney Diaries: 5 Years of Cars Land

By

Maverick Bohn

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September 13, 2017

“Welcome to Radiator Springs!”

This year marks 5 years of racing, cone puns, and neon lights. Cars Land has now reached a big milestone, one that seems like it came faster than Lightning McQueen around Willy’s Butte. With those years have come an impressive number of crowds and well earned mileage for the area. With Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge being the latest themed land to be in the spotlight, it’s hard to forget the fanfare and explosion of excitement when Cars Land was first announced.

"The cutest little town in Carburetor County!" — “The cutest little town in Carburetor County!”

Debuting in June of 2012, the Disneyland Resort brought something monumentally special. With careful tooling, Cars Land not only recreated the town of Radiator Springs masterfully, but created a unique environment that everyone can enjoy. Even if you haven’t seen any of the films, the land fits perfectly and stands on its own. It truly is a place unlike any other, and one that still turns heads each day from sun up to sun down.

This place is remarkable, especially given the fact that Cars Land and I have a very special attachment. When I worked for the Disneyland Resort, I was stationed at the Casa Della Tires and worked the late Luigi’s Flying Tires attraction. So much has changed in that tire yard, but the memories are still as fresh today as the days they were formed. Since my departure, the land has continued to mature and foster a timeless feel that can only be summed up as amazing.

Flashback to Luigi's Flying Tires in 2013. — Flashback to Luigi’s Flying Tires in 2013.

The tires have flown away and the yard is now home to Luigi's Rollickin' Roadsters. — The tires have flown away and the yard is now home to Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters.

The moment you walk through the entrance, you are transported and become completely immersed a part of the world of Cars. Walt’s showmanship and attention to detail were definitely kept in mind with this addition, which is very important in this modern age of quick demands and changes. Park guests are evolving, and it takes more than a quick paint job to make a lasting impact.

Not a single detail was overlooked, from the delayed flashing of the town stoplight, to the nightly “Lighting Ceremony” that illuminates the entire town in neon lights. That ceremony is picture perfect and one of the rare opportunities to be a part of the story of the town. One of my favorite pastimes is visiting the town for the ceremony and looking for all the reactions and looks from the guests nearby. It still comes as complete surprise all these years later. It’s wonderful to see how people respond to witnessing it.

Now that we are driving into the 5th year, many more exciting things are finding their way to Radiator Springs. With the release of Cars 3, Cruz Ramirez has made her way to the park and fans of all ages are able to meet the newest member of the town. Also, the entire land is getting a Halloween overlay this year. Finally, Disney California Adventure gets to share in the holiday fun and Cars Land will be one of the most prominent themed areas for the fall season. With Halloweentime officially starting this weekend, our team here at SoCal Thrills will be giving you the full scoop. It’s truly an exciting time!

Cruz brings new life and flair into Cars Land. Ka-Chow!

Whether it’s your first visit, your ten thousandth road trip, or your daily routine, really take your time to experience all the land has to offer. There is plenty of amazing food to go around, unique merchandise, sights to see, and attractions to take for a spin.

Don't forget to pick up this awesome mug! — Don’t forget to pick up this awesome mug!

There's always time to grab a quick bite at the Cozy Cone Motel! — There’s always time to grab a quick bite at the Cozy Cone Motel!

5 years has just sped by and I honestly can’t wait to see how the land will continue grow as we lean into that final curve taking us to the 10th anniversary. See you out on the track and on Route 66!

Apple Watch Series 3 brings built-in cellular and other new enhancements

By

Socalthrills Staff

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September 12, 2017

Apple introduced Apple Watch Series 3, adding built-in cellular to the world’s number one watch. Whether users are out for a run, at the pool or just trying to be more active throughout their day, Apple Watch Series 3 with cellular allows them to stay connected, make calls, receive texts and more, even without iPhone nearby. The third-generation Apple Watch is an amazing health and fitness companion with intelligent coaching features, water resistance 50 meters¹ and a new barometric altimeter that measures relative elevation. Apple Watch Series 3 comes in two models, one with GPS and cellular, and one with GPS, both featuring a 70 percent faster dual-core processor and new wireless chip.

https://youtu.be/jUvD80mNKBM

“We believe the addition of cellular will transform the way people use Apple Watch, providing a new sense of freedom since they can stay connected with or without their iPhone,” said Jeff Williams, Apple’s chief operating officer. “Apple Watch Series 3 combined with the power of watchOS 4 is the ultimate device for a healthy life.”

Soon, the combination of cellular and watchOS 4 will allow Apple Music users to stream 40 million songs right from their wrist. Beginning Friday, September 15, Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) will be available to order in 10 countries and territories, and Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) will be available to order in 28 countries and territories. Both models are available in stores starting Friday, September 22.

Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) features a full LTE and UMTS cellular radio that switches seamlessly to cellular when it is away from iPhone. The watch shares the same number as iPhone so there’s no need to provide an additional number to family, friends or colleagues; and to help get customers started, participating carriers are also offering special introductory cellular plans at launch. Customers have the ability to make cellular calls directly with Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) and, when paired with AirPods, enjoy a seamless and fully wireless experience. Apple also pioneered an industry-first antenna design that uses the display itself as both a transmitting and receiving element for LTE and UMTS, while introducing a built-in eSIM that is over one-hundredth the size of a traditional SIM card, making over-the-air activation possible without compromising space.²

Powering Apple Watch Series 3 is the S3, Apple’s third-generation architecture featuring a faster dual-core processor, which allows for quicker app launch times and smoother graphics, and, for the first time, enables Siri to speak using the built-in speaker. Apple designed a new custom wireless chip called W2, making Wi-Fi 85 percent faster and Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 50 percent more power efficient, while still providing all-day battery life and keeping the size virtually the same as before. Apple Watch Series 3 also features a barometric altimeter that assists with tracking activity, flights climbed and outdoor workouts, including elevation gain.

watchOS 4

watchOS 4 features an updated Heart Rate app, giving even more insight to heart rate, including measurements during resting, workout, recovery, walking and Breathe sessions. Customers can also choose to receive a notification when their heart rate is elevated above a specific threshold while inactive. Other great watchOS 4 features include the proactive Siri watch face that displays the information users need most throughout the day, an enhanced Workout app with new interface, custom High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) workout type and auto-sets for pool swims. With GymKit, users will soon enjoy the ability to connect to their favorite cardio equipment and experience two-way synchronization of data with just a tap, resulting in the most accurate information possible.

The redesigned Music app experience automatically syncs playlists like New Music Mix and Favorites Mix, along with the user’s most listened to music. Later this fall, Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) will stream music, giving users access to any song from Apple Music, straight from the wrist. The new Radio app also enables listeners to access Beats 1 live or any Apple Music radio station while away from iPhone or Wi-Fi.

Apple Watch Line-Up

Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) starts at $399 (US) and Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) starts at $329 (US), both featuring new upgrades like a faster dual-core processor and wireless chip, along with a barometric altimeter. Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) also debuts a special red Digital Crown and exclusive “Explorer” watch face that shows cellular connectivity through a unique design. Series 1 will be available at a new starting price of $249 (US), making it more affordable than ever.

In addition to silver or space gray aluminum, Apple Watch Series 3 now comes in a gorgeous new gold aluminum, along with silver or space black stainless steel cases, which all pair with a stunning assortment of new band colors and styles. The Woven Nylon is updated with a new pattern and the incredibly lightweight Sport Loop effortlessly adjusts to fit wrists with unparalleled comfort. Apple Watch Edition expands to include a beautiful dark gray ceramic case that pairs with a new two-toned Sport Band.

Apple Watch Nike+ has been extremely popular, and this fall, the partnership continues with both models of Series 3 pairing with a new pure platinum/black Nike Sport Band or Sport Loop in exclusive colors. The Nike Run Club app has been updated to introduce exciting new features: Audio Guided Runs deliver world-class coaching and motivation from Nike’s elite coaches, athletes and entertainers, while the Cheers feature makes running more fun by allowing your friends to send audio-based cheers, which will motivate you during a run. Just Do It Sundays continues to provide inspiration and rewards from participation in the world’s largest running community. Apple Watch Hermès models come with built-in cellular and pair with a striking collection of new bands, including the Single Tour Rallye, in perforated Gala calfskin, inspired by the classic Hermès driving glove, and the Single Tour Eperon d’Or, in printed Gala calfskin, inspired by the equestrian scarf pattern designed by Henri d’Origny in 1974. A new watch face, inspired by the Carrick Hermès watch, also designed by Henri d’Origny in 1993, completes the existing selection of Hermès watch faces.

Pricing and Availability

Apple Watch is available in two different case sizes, 38mm and 42mm. Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) will be available in gold, silver or space gray aluminum, or silver or space black stainless steel paired with a variety of bands starting at $399(US). Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) will be available in gold, silver or space gray aluminum cases with a Sport Band starting at $329 (US). Apple Watch Series 1 is available in silver or space gray aluminum cases paired with a Sport Band starting at just $249 (US). Apple Watch Edition in gray or white ceramic will be available starting at $1,299 (US). All models will be available from apple.com and Apple Stores, as well as select Apple Authorized Resellers and carriers (prices may vary). For local availability, visit locate.apple.com. Apple Watch Nike+ starts at $329 (US) and Apple Watch Hermès starts at $1,149 (US) (prices may vary).

Customers will be able to order Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) beginning Friday, September 15, with availability beginning Friday, September 22 in Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Puerto Rico, Switzerland, the UK and the US, with other countries following next year. For carrier availability, visit apple.com/watch/cellular.

Customers will be able to order Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) beginning Friday, September 15, with availability beginning Friday, September 22 in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, the UK, the US and US Virgin Islands. Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) will be available beginning Saturday, September 23 in UAE.

Apple Watch Series 1 is available on apple.com and anywhere Apple Watch is sold.

Apple Watch Nike+ will be available to order on apple.com beginning Friday, September 15, with limited availability on Thursday, October 5 in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guam, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Macau, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, UAE, the UK and the US. For more information, visit apple.com/apple-watch-nike or nike.com/applewatch.

Apple Watch Hermès will be available to order on apple.com beginning Friday, September 15, with availability beginning Friday, September 22 in Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Switzerland, the UK and the US. For more information, visit apple.com/apple-watch-hermes or hermes.com/applewatchhermes.

Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) will be available beginning Friday, September 29 in Croatia, Czech Republic, Greece, Guam, Hungary, Iceland, India, Jersey, Macau, Monaco, Poland, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Thailand and Turkey.

Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) will be available beginning Saturday, September 30 in Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

New Apple Watch bands are available today on apple.com and will be available soon at Apple Stores, as well as select Apple Authorized Resellers and carriers in the USand over 35 countries and regions, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UAE and the UK.

Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) requires iPhone 6 or later running iOS 11 or later and Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) requires iPhone 5S or later running iOS 11 or later. Some features are not available in all regions or all languages.

Customers who buy Apple Watch from Apple will be offered free Personal Setup in-store or online⁴ to help set up and personalize their new Apple Watch with calendars, notifications, apps and more.

Anyone who wants to start with the basics or go further with their new Apple Watch can sign up for free Today at Apple sessions at apple.com/today.

Apple TV 4K brings home the magic of cinema

By

Socalthrills Staff

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September 12, 2017

Apple introduced the new Apple TV 4K designed to deliver a stunning cinematic experience at home. With support for both 4K and High Dynamic Range (HDR), Apple TV 4K features unbelievably sharp, crisp images, richer, more true-to-life colors, and far greater detail in both dark and bright scenes. With Apple TV 4K, viewers can enjoy a growing selection of 4K HDR movies on iTunes. iTunes users will get automatic upgrades of HD titles in their existing iTunes library to 4K HDR versions when they become available. Apple TV 4K will also offer 4K HDR content from popular video services, including Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, coming soon.

“Bring the magic of the cinema straight to your living room with the new Apple TV 4K,” said Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Internet Software and Services. “Customers will love watching stunning 4K HDR movies from an impressive catalog on iTunes, while also getting automatic upgrades of 4K HDR movies already in their iTunes library and enjoying 4K content on services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, coming soon.”

4K and HDR

Built on the groundbreaking A10X Fusion chip — the same chip that powers iPad Pro — the new Apple TV 4K delivers a vivid 4K HDR experience.

Support for both Dolby Vision and HDR10 ensures users can enjoy incredible-looking TV shows and movies on any HDR TV.
Built-in high-performance 4K video scaler makes HD content look better than ever on a 4K TV.
Always outputting to the highest resolution possible allows viewers to get the most out of their TV, whether it’s an older HDTV or the latest 4K Dolby Vision OLED.
Automatic detection of a 4K TV’s capabilities optimizes setup for the best quality picture.

Siri and the Apple TV App

Siri and the Apple TV app are easy ways to find and play exactly what you want. The TV app brings all your favorite shows and movies together, and Siri makes it possible to search and access content across Apple TV using just your voice.

The TV app supports over 60 services on Apple TV and iOS devices, with more being added all the time. Whether you’re at home or on the go, it’s easy to discover and watch TV shows and movies from multiple apps in one place.
Siri is smart about 4K HDR, so it’s unbelievably simple to find movies and TV shows in the highest picture quality across your apps (e.g., “Show me movies in 4K”).
Later this year, the TV app is making it easier than ever to watch and get updates about live sports just by saying “Watch the Warriors game” or “What’s the score of the Cubs game?”
Sports fans in the US will be able to track their favorite teams and get on-screen notifications whenever they are playing, as well as see all the teams, leagues and sporting events currently playing through a dedicated Sports tab.²
Starting this month, the TV app will be available in Australia and Canada, in addition to the US. And, by the end of the year, it will expand to France, Germany, Norway, Sweden and the UK.

Apple TV at Home

Apple TV is the perfect addition to any household, with great apps from the App Store on Apple TV, as well as photos, videos, music and more. If you already own an iPhone or iPad, there’s no better choice in the living room than Apple TV.

Users can share recent photos and videos from your iPhone and iPad, including the best Memories, with friends and family on the biggest screen, with iCloud on Apple TV.
It’s also simple to send movies, TV shows, home videos and photos from iPhone or iPad instantly to the TV using AirPlay from your iOS devices.
With support for AirPlay 2, coming later this year, Apple TV can control multiple AirPlay 2-compatible speakers as well as your home theater speakers to create the ultimate home music experience.
Apple TV goes beyond entertainment to help deliver on Apple’s vision of the smart home. Since Apple TV is always at home, it’s perfectly suited to act as a home hub for all of your HomeKit accessories, enabling remote access as well as automated control (e.g., automatically turning on the lights at sunset).

Pricing and Availability

Apple TV 4K starts at $179 (US) for 32GB or $199 (US) for 64GB, joining Apple TV (4th generation) 32GB at $149 (US), available from apple.com and Apple Stores, as well as through select Apple Authorized Resellers and carriers (prices may vary). Customers will be able to order both Apple TV 4K models beginning Friday, September 15, with availability beginning Friday, September 22. For more information, visit apple.com/tv.

Buena Park: The Halloween Capital of Southern California

By

Socalthrills Staff

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September 11, 2017

Buena Park transforms into a town of terror in September and October offering several Halloween events including the biggest one in the world, Knott’s Scary Farm. For those brave enough to come to Buena Park, we’ve got the gory details on all the Halloween hot spots and killer deals. After a long night of thrills, R.I.P with discounted hotels perfect for every guest…dead or alive. We invite you to pick your poison or create a monster marathon and enjoy them ALL! For the full line of events and deals go to VisitBuenaPark.com/Halloween

Knott’s Scary Farm – First, Largest and Longest Running Halloween Event
The largest Halloween event in the world, Knott’s Scary Farm returns with over 1,000 monsters, unimaginable scares and innovative thrills for its 45th season. The fog rolls in for 25 horrifying nights from September 21st – October 31st with 13 uniquely haunted mazes and attractions including the interactive zombie hunting experience, Special Ops Infected. Those who are brave enough can trudge through serpent filled swamps, explore an abandoned hospital over ran with evil spirits, run from a blood hungry murderer or go on a quest through an ancient Japanese temple guarded by the souls of slain samurai warriors. Get your killer ticket deals by clicking here.

Knott’s Spooky Farm
On weekends from September 30th – October 29th, families can join in on the ghoulish fun with interactive adventures throughout the theme park, starting with a special trip around Camp Spooky on the Grand Sierra Railroad with added 2D and 3D Halloween fun effects. Camp Snoopy Theater will play host to the “Monsters are Coming” kid’s show where children are also encouraged to brew-up their perfect Halloween disguise for the Spooky Farm Costume Contest. Click here for more information.

Vampirate’s Halloween Show
Beware of the bite at Pirate’s Dinner Adventure Halloween show – Vampirate’s! The haunting begins October 2nd and continues through the entire month of October. Enjoy dressing up in your favorite sweet or spooky costume, with contests held each Saturday and Sunday for ghouls and goblins of all ages. The show follows the evil Captain Sebastian the Black and his horde of Vampire Pirate’s as they take to the high-seas. Save a ton of loot by clicking here.

Rock & Brews Monster Beer Fest
October 21stfrom 12pm to 5pm enjoy over 100 different bone-chilling beers from 50 different breweries at Rock & Brews Annual Monster Beer Fest in Buena Park. Admission goodies include: unlimited beer tasting, discounted food, live music, and costume contest. Tickets go on sale October 1^st.

Olde Tyme Fall Festival
The “Boo-uena Park” Old Tyme Fall Festival on September 30^th showcases the City’s historical structures with haunted tours of the Whitaker-Jaynes Estate, storytelling in the Bacon House and much more! From 2pm to 5pm kids can create fall-themed crafts, watch a thrilling magic show and play fun old-time games. Take in the sounds of local entertainment and tastes of local food vendors, including tacos from Buena Park’s newest restaurant, Poquito Mas. Halloween-themed vendors will also be onsite selling tricks and treats for the whole family. Admission is free. Click here for more information.

Silverado Days Festival
Come down to William Peak Park October 20 -22 for the Annual Silverado Days Festival. The free three day event entertains with delicious food, thrilling rides and family-friendly competitions. Participate in the world amateur arm wrestling championship, professional horseshoe contest, pie eating contest, hog calling and much more. With over 20 rides, 16 food options, 20 games and 90 arts and crafts booths, Silverado Days is fun for the whole family. Click here for more information.

R.I.P Halloween Hotel Deals
After a long day of thrills, rest in peace in comfortable accommodations just minutes from Knott’s Scary Farm and local attractions. Buena Park offers a wide array of hotels that suits every budget and save even more with free parking, no resort fees and complimentary shuttle service from most major hotels to local attractions including Disneyland®. Click here to book your Halloween hotel deal or package today.

New Kodak Instant-Print Camera Revealed

By

Socalthrills Staff

-

September 11, 2017

The KODAK PRINTOMATIC Camera is the ultimate catalyst for a good time that can be shared instantly. Every day is a special occasion with the KODAK PRINTOMATIC Instant-Print Camera – from graduations to family gatherings to relaxing getaways with loved ones. A perfect accessory for event planners, scrap-bookers, vacationers and partygoers, instant photography is the utilitarian-meets-fun solution for custom gifts and mementos. Wedding guests can snap candid photos of the ceremony and have them printed and framed before the reception starts. Creating custom scrapbooks is hassle-free when photos print immediately with adhesive backing ready to be added to the page. Events become more fun, weekend get-togethers are enriched, and moments that once were forgotten on a smartphone are cherished forever.

“The KODAK PRINTOMATIC is a contemporary camera with a wonderful balance of digital and analog technology,” says Steven Overman, President of Kodak’s Consumer and Film Division and Kodak Chief Marketing Officer. “It’s an accessible device for anybody who wants to create a lasting memory in a tangible, colorful way.”

“We feel honored to partner with Kodak, a company that has established itself as a leader and storied brand in color technology used the world over,” comments Chaim Pikarski, CEO of C+A Global. “This release is another step for Kodak entering into the growing instant digital camera market. The KODAK PRINTOMATIC Camera is the first of the full product lineup to be launched in 2017 and continue into 2018. The KODAK PRINTOMATIC Camera brings back the nostalgia of capturing and sharing KODAK MOMENTS, putting the print in the palm of your hand, the moment it happens.”

With a maximum resolution 10-megapixel camera and no computer connection or even Wi-Fi needed, the KODAK PRINTOMATIC Camera produces 2×3” photo prints with no ink cartridges, toner or film necessary. Photo prints are durable, water- and tear-resistant with an adhesive back. Fun, fast and easy to use, the compact and fashionable KODAK PRINTOMATIC fits right in your back pocket and is perfect for sharing vibrant, smudge-free photos with friends and family, anywhere, anytime. Keeping up with all the fun, the camera can even shoot a new photo while still printing the previous shot, so you’ll never miss a special moment.

KODAK PRINTOMATIC Instant-Print Camera Highlights and Benefits:

Maximum resolution of 10-megapixel camera
Built-in flash
Built-in lithium ion battery
Two picture modes: vibrant color, black & white
Low battery indicator
Printer status indicator
MicroSD™ card indicator
MicroSD™ card slot
Slots for neck strap
Comes in grey or yellow

The KODAK PRINTOMATIC Instant-Print Camera is available in late September for $69.99 USD at major retailers and online including Amazon. The camera comes with a USB cable, a Quick Start Guide, a 10-pack of KODAK ZINK Photo Paper and a memory card. KODAK ZINK Photo Paper comes in 20 and 50 packs, and is sold separately.

More information is available at www.kodak.com/go/printomatic.

First Clip from Blade Runner 2049

By

Robbie Bulus

-

September 11, 2017

Sci Fi Thriller: Thirty years after the events of the first film, a new blade runner, LAPD Officer K (Ryan Gosling), unearths a long-buried secret that has the potential to plunge what’s left of society into chaos. K’s discovery leads him on a quest to find Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford), a former LAPD blade runner who has been missing for 30 years.

[videopress W0fa5nq1]

BLADE RUNNER 2049
In 3D and 2D in select theaters and IMAX on October 6th
(Alcon Entertainment)

Director: Denis Villeneuve
Writer: Screenplay by Hampton Fancher and Michael Green, Story by Hampton Fancher, based on characters from the novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K. Dick,
Producers: Andrew A. Kosove, Broderick Johnson, Bud Yorkin, Cynthia Yorkin
Executive Producers: Ridley Scott, Tim Gamble, Frank Giustra, Yale Badick, Val Hill, Bill Carraro
Cast: Ryan Gosling, Harrison Ford, Ana de Armas, Sylvia Hoeks, Robin Wright, Mackenzie Davis, Carla Juri, Lennie James, with Dave Bautista and Jared Leto

Paella and the Blue Iguana in Ojai

By

Greg Aragon, Writer Greg's Getaway

-

September 11, 2017

One of my favorite places in spring is Ojai, where beautiful landscapes and small town charm mix to form pure relaxation. A friend and I recently took a day off work and snuck away to this little hideaway. It was only for the night, but the memories will linger for a long time.

The getaway began when we pulled into the Blue Iguana Inn, located on the outskirts of town. Seeped in old-mission style architecture, the Iguana is an old-world style boutique villa-inn designed and built by renowned Ojai architect Marc Whitman.

The property is highlighted by arched entrances, terra cotta curved roofing, and rugged outpost railings. Flagstone paths marked with intricate stone mosaics and hand-made Mediterranean tiles accent the landscape, along with lush courtyards, gardens and trees, and a pool.

The interiors are also distinctive. Every one of the inn’s rooms, suites, bungalows and vacation cottages feature authentic one-of-a-kind furniture pieces throughout, including exotic rugs, original pieces by local artists, and lots of Southwestern-type furnishings.

Our two-bedroom bungalow was no less special. The living room featured a large sofa, chase lounge, large TV and old-fashioned fire place. The master bedroom boasted a king bed, television and private bathroom, The 2nd bedroom offered a queen bed and its own private bathroom. The bungalow also featured a full-sized kitchen with stove, fridge, microwave, sink and dinner table. And out the side of the house, there was a large private patio area.

The accommodations were so comforting we considered going to the market, cooking a dinner and staying in all night. But then I remembered Azu Restaurant in downtown Ojai. More specifically, I remembered the paella and chile relleno I sampled on my last visit.

Led by Chef Laurel Moore, Azu serves an eclectic California Spanish fare inspired by traditional Mediterranean Cuisine with fresh local ingredients grown and hand-picked by Moore from local farms and her own garden. The menu is highlighted by an extensive tapas menu, numerous wines by the glass, and fresh homemade gelato.

For our dinner at Azu we began with Tapas, which included marinated Cerignola olives and chorizo stuffed dates wrapped in bacon. For the main course I again experienced the paella, with saffron valencia rice, shrimp, calamari, chorizo sausage, peas and marinated artichoke hearts. My friend went with the petite rib eye steak, a 6-oz grass fed rib eye, with hand cut fries and green peppercorn demi glacé.

After dinner we strolled through artsy Ojai Village, admiring quaint shops and the majestic surrounding mountains. In the morning we waved goodbye to the hotel, and Iggy, the big blue Iguana mosaic tile fountain in front of the hotel.

The next morning we continued with our Spanish themed getaway to Ojai with a tour of the Ojai Olive Oil Farm (www.ojaioliveoil.com). Free to the public, the 30-minute tours take place every Wednesday and Saturday and begin whenever a few people show up and are ready to walk the farm.

The tours begin outside, in a grove of 150-yr-old olive trees, where guests learn a bit about the history of olive oil and how it came to be produced in Ojai. The tour guide also talks about the cultivation of the trees and olive fruit, the harvesting process, and more. After about 15 minutes the tour heads inside to see the olive mill, and learn how our extra virgin olive oil is extracted, blended and bottled.

The tour guide also talks about things like cooking with olive oil, storing olive oil, shopping for olive oil, and what exactly extra virgin olive oil means. After the tour guest can shop in the gift shop for award winning olive oil made right on the property.

The Blue Iguana Inn is located at 11794 N. Ventura Ave, Ojai, California 93023. For more info and reservations, call (805) 646-5277 or visit:www.blueiguanainn.com. Azu Restaurant is at 457 East Ojai Ave. For more info, call (805) 640-7987 or visit: www.azuojai.com

Blu Ray Review: Born in China

By

Maverick Bohn

-

September 10, 2017

Disney Nature’s latest venture, Born in China is filled with splendor, wonder, and a rare look at the natural world of China. Filmed over the course of a full year from Spring to Spring, viewers get a chance to see the world through the eyes of pandas, snow leopards, and golden monkeys.

Narrated by John Krasinski, the film is presented beautifully and transports you directly into the worlds of these animals in a way that has never been seen before. Krasinski’s telling weaves a more personalized feel for the movie. The focus of it all being family and what it means to grow, survive, and sacrifice for those you love.

Thinking back on Walt Disney’s old True Life Adventure series, the goal of each project was to bring us all that much closer to the natural world. Yet, rather than explore it at a distance, we all get an opportunity to learn more about our own connections with the animals and their surroundings. We all get a chance to see how we relate to the circle of life and what it really means to be there for the ones we care about. That’s a significant concept, and one that echos through the entire set.

Blu Ray Review: Born in China — Character: Dawa and her cub – Snow Leopard

With the film comes a series of special features, going more in depth with both the crew and the animals. As previously said, the film brings to light elements that have never been seen before and in addition to the feature presentation, this content is not to be missed. You can see a full set of features below:

Panda Suits and Bamboo Shoots– Join the team as they struggle through an almost impenetrable bamboo forest in an effort to capture footage of pandas in the wild.
Walking With Monkeys– The shivering crew bundles up to film the adorable golden snub-nosed monkeys engaged in a surprisingly human activity.
Masters of Camouflage– Go behind the scenes as filmmakers set out on a quest never before achieved- to find and film a snow leopard family in the wild.
Wading Through Wetlands– A crew travels to far northeast China to catch the first moments of a red-crowned crane chick’s life.
“Everything Everything” Music Video performed by American Authors.
Disneynature: Get Inspired, Get Involved.

Other films in the Disney Nature Series include, Bears, African Cats, and Chimpanzee. To learn more about the Disney Nature Series and to find out more about future projects, please visit http://www.nature.disney.com

Socalthrills.com

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