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

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.

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“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.comApple 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

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

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 1st.

Olde Tyme Fall Festival
The “Boo-uena Park” Old Tyme Fall Festival on September 30th 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

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

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.

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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

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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

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.

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.
Character: TaoTao – Golden snub-nosed monkeys

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

Fantasmic Dragon Comes to Life Made Entirely of Canned Food

The Disneyland Resort Design and Engineering team brought the dragon from the popular nighttime spectacular “Fantasmic!” to life by creating a 10-foot character from 5,250 canned goods at the 10th anniversary of CANstruction Orange County.

Since the program’s inception, the Disneyland Resort team has joined local architectural and design firms to build creative structures made entirely of canned and packaged foods. Each of the Resort’s designs features a Disney theme.

This dedicated group of Disneyland Resort VoluntEARS designs and plans each build over a period of six months.

“It takes a lot of teamwork to design, coordinate, test-build and then do the final build for our structures,” said Giuliana Haro, Architecture and Facilities engineer, about the five-person team’s involvement. “There are many in our community who are not as fortunate as we are and it is important to always get involved, volunteer and help those in need. We participate in CANstruction because it serves a great cause in providing food for our local community 3⁄4 and we get to have fun while doing so!”

Materials used:

  • Canned Chunk White Chicken
  • Canned Sardines in Olive Oil
  • Canned Sardines in Water
  • Canned Water Chestnuts
  • Canned Bamboo Shoots
  • Canned Black and Pinto Beans
  • Drink Mix Packets
  • Black Tea
  • Assorted Chips
  • Fruit Snacks

The Disneyland Resort team has left a lasting impact in its continued dedication to this annual event. Over the last decade, Disney CANstructures have helped to feed the equivalent of three meals a day for 10 years for a family of three.

“Disney cast members have helped educate people about the issue of hunger in a creative and compelling manner through magical and visually stunning structures that have entertained people,” said Mark Lowry, director of the OC Food Bank. “But most importantly, they have provided additional food to expand the capacity of the OC Food Bank to combat hunger.”

Through CANstruction and food drives, the Disneyland Resort has provided the OC Food Bank more than 65,000 meals for the local community over the last 10 years. Disney VoluntEARS regularly assist in food packing, and in 2016, volunteered more than 1,800 hours at the food bank.

To join in CANstruction OC’s mission to feed the world “one can” at a time, visit the CANstructures on display from September 2-24 at South Coast Plaza, John Wayne Airport and the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC) to cast your vote. Vote for your favorite and help raise funds; $1 equals one vote.

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Returns Nov. 10, 2017-Jan. 7, 2018

The Happiest Place on Earth gets merrier once again when Holidays at the Disneyland Resort returns Nov. 10, 2017, through Jan. 7, 2018. This festive season includes the return of favorite holiday experiences, including Festival of Holidays, “World of Color – Season of Light,” and the “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks spectacular.

Guests plan their seasonal visits year after year to experience beloved Holiday traditions, from snowfall on Main Street U.S.A., to glistening décor, Disney-themed treats, holiday entertainment and the one-of-a-kind transformations that create “it’s a small world” Holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday.

At Disney California Adventure Park

  • The nighttime spectacular, “World of Color – Season of Light” celebrates the warm and heartfelt spirit of the holidays as it illuminates Paradise Bay with a sparkling winter fantasy combining classic holiday songs with memorable moments from treasured Disney animated films.
  • Festival of Holidays” brings the spirit of the season to life through delicious food and special entertainment, including the popular “Disney ¡Viva Navidad!” A new twist to this celebration presents the popular Festive Foods Marketplace with a mix of holiday comfort dishes that bridge many diverse cultures and family traditions.
  • Santa Claus, with a sleigh full of mischievous elves, appears at Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, where guests of all ages will join the festive fun with a series of holiday-themed activities along the trail.
  • For the residents of Cars Land, holiday decorating begins with the whimsical “Snowcar” that greets guests on the road to Radiator Springs. Each address along Route 66 – Flo’s V-8 Café, Fillmore’s, Cozy Cone Motel, Luigi’s Casa della Tires and more – also gets a holiday makeover that reflects the personality of its “Cars” character resident.
  • “a bug’s land” transforms for the holidays, too, as Flik and his bug friends deck their land with oversized lights and ornaments.
  • A dazzling, 50-foot Christmas tree adorns Carthay Circle along Buena Vista Street. The tree and surrounding buildings, inspired by Los Angeles as it appeared when Walt Disney arrived in the 1920s, are decorated with vintage-style ornaments.

At Disneyland Park

  • Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle returns with magical nighttime snowfall moments that conclude with “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks and its stirring snowfall finale.
  • Guests will be enchanted by the soaring Christmas tree in Town Square, Main Street, U.S.A. It’s 60 feet tall and filled with nearly 1,800 ornaments. This festive backdrop is a popular location for holiday photos.
  • Disney characters celebrate the season in “A Christmas Fantasy” parade, a daily procession with floats, music, marching “tin soldiers” and holiday cheer. Santa, who makes a jolly appearance in the parade, also will be found welcoming guests at his special location in Critter Country.
  • Disneyland guests definitely will want to experience the popular seasonal transformations of these park attractions:
    • “it’s a small world” becomes “it’s a small world” Holiday with children around the world enjoying the distinctive holiday traditions of their countries.
    • Haunted Mansion becomes Haunted Mansion Holiday,* with Jack Skellington and his friends from Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” causing a collision between Christmas and Halloween.

The Downtown Disney shopping, dining and entertainment district and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort join in the holiday festivities with twinkling lights and ornaments, holiday displays, special entertainment and holiday dining with themed menus.

*Haunted Mansion Holiday is inspired by “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.”

New Halloween Fun at Disney California Adventure

For the first time, Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort is also taking over Disney California Adventure Park, with areas such as Buena Vista Street and Cars Land getting all dressed up for holiday fun. The recently-opened Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! attraction gets some additional thrills as it transforms into Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark each night. Additional attractions will receive spooky fun updates, and there will be plenty of Halloween decorations, themed food and beverage, eerie merchandise and more. Combined with favorite Halloween traditions at Disneyland Park including Haunted Mansion Holiday, Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy and Pumpkin Festival on Main Street, U.S.A., Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort is now twice as much fun.

Halloween excitement begins as guests first enter Disney California Adventure. An oversized, shadowy silhouette of Oogie Boogie, the villainous boogeyman from “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” ominously leers over guests passing through the main entrance. In a spooky but fun moment, Oogie appears to unleash a swarm of bats which sound as if they fly down Buena Vista Street towards Hollywood Land, Cars Land and beyond. Guests will even see the bats circling the tower of the Carthay Circle Theatre.

Cars Land Haul-O-Ween

Everyone’s favorite Cars characters have transformed Radiator Springs into their own Haul-O-Ween celebration. Scary the “Scare-car” greets guests at the entrance of Route 66 for a special photo opportunity. Each of the Cars has decorated its establishment for the season. With Fillmore showing off his Jack-Oil-Lanterns and ghostly folk art, Sarge displaying his “pump-kins,” and a Spider-Car spinning webs all over the outside of Flo’s V8 Café, the town of Radiator Springs will indeed be transformed into Radiator Screams!

Two of the attractions also have been transformed for Halloween for the first time. Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree becomes Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree. Expect to hear some creepy, new songs and fun haunted twists on other hits, including “Monster Truck Smash” and “Welcome to Radiator Screams” as guests whirl around the graveyard. Additionally, Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters becomes Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween, an all-new spooktacular dance celebration where Luigi and Guido entertain the cugini (cousins) with Halloween twists to traditional Italian festival songs like the “Terror-antella,” “The Chop Top of Carsoli” and more. It’s hair-raising fun … for a limited time!

Also, for the first time, the Cars characters will be donning their Halloween “car-stumes” as they greet guests and prepare to go “trunk-or-treating.” Mater will be wearing his vampire or “van-pire” outfit, while Lightning McQueen is dressed as a super hero. Cruz Ramirez, Red the Fire Truck and DJ get dressed up as a pirate, a clown and a punk rocker, respectively.

Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark

Fans were thrilled when Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! opened in May at Disney California Adventure Park, and now they’re in for a scary Halloween treat as the attraction is transformed nightly into Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark. During the day, guests continue to experience the excitement, fun and six different ride experiences on Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! However, each evening the attraction transforms from Mission: BREAKOUT! to Monsters After Dark. The Collector’s Fortress goes dark, alarms sound and all-new lighting on the exterior of the Fortress alerts guests that something inside has gone awry.

As guests enter the Lobby of the Fortress, they will be startled by flashing alarms and creepy sounds – warning signs that creatures have escaped their vitrines (glass cages) and all kinds of chaos is erupting. The Collector’s ever-resourceful assistant, Apheta, tries to keep calm by reassuring guests that all is in order, and this is just a momentary setback.

In keeping with the dark humor of the experience, an all-new 1970s-style punk rock song, “Monsters After Dark,” enhances the thrill of the experience. The song was written especially for this attraction by Tyler Bates, composer for the “Guardians of the Galaxy” films.

Buena Vista Street Halloween Décor

Along Buena Vista Street, guests will enjoy Halloween decorations in store windows and in Carthay Circle, they’ll see a new 10-foot-tall statue of the Headless Horseman himself, holding up his jack-o’-lantern head to the sky. New, themed background music further creates the appropriately eerie, but still fun, mood.

Mickey and his friends also will be in the area, donning their period-appropriate Halloween costumes, such as a bat for Mickey Mouse, a ghost for Goofy and a witch for Daisy Duck – all in playful fun, of course.

Frighteningly Refreshing Food and Beverages

Throughout the park, Halloween-themed food and beverage offerings will include:

  • Bat Wing Raspberry Sundae (Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream) – white chocolate-raspberry swirl ice cream with raspberry splatter, blood-red sprinkles, whipped cream and bat wing cookie;
  • Spider Silk Ice Cream Sandwich (Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream) – a black macaron with charcoal-tart cherry spun ice cream topped with popping candy and drops of raspberry sauce;
  • Sleepy Hollow Cupcake (Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Cafe) – red velvet cupcake with cream cheese frosting, raspberry drizzle and Headless Horseman chocolate decoration;
  • Green Apple Spell Lemonade (Smokejumpers Grill) – lemonade, green apple syrup and cherry drops;
  • Monstermallow Donut (Schmoozies) – flaky, croissant donut in the shape of Mike Wazowski from “Monster, Inc.,” filled with marshmallow cream;
  • “Ghost”-ly Pepper Nachos (Cove Bar) – ghost pepper-marinated flank steak with green tortilla chips, topped with ghost pepper cheese sauce, black beans and avocado-tomatillo salsa;
  • Pumpkin Raisin Bread Pudding and Anchor Blood Orange Blondie (Pacific Wharf Café);
  • Slow Burnin’ Mac & Cheese Cone (Cozy Cone Motel) – fresh-cooked pasta with spicy red pepper cheese sauce, served in a Black Cauldron Cone and topped with crushed chile-cheese puffs;
  • Car-achnid Pot Pie (Flo’s V8 Café) – chicken pot pie with dried cranberries and butter-crust spider; and
  • Purple, green and orange-colored Churros, Mickey Bat Cookies and Candy Corn Cotton Candy (locations throughout the park).

Mickey’s Halloween Party Mix-In

Disney California Adventure also will be featured for the first time as part of the pre-party mix-in for Mickey’s Halloween Party, a separate-ticket event that features special entertainment, Disney characters in their Halloween attire, and trick or treating at locations throughout Disneyland. This year, a ticket to Mickey’s Halloween Party has even greater value as guests will be able to visit Disney California Adventure as well as Disneyland during the three hours prior to the beginning of the party in Disneyland Park.

Tickets for Mickey’s Halloween Party may be purchased online and on mobile devices at Disneyland.com/party as well as at the Disneyland Resort main gate and by phone at 714-781-4400.

The Disney Diaries: Force Friday II

“This will be a day long remembered!”

Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi is only months away and with the release date in our sights, there is a level of anticipation like no other this side of the Rishi Maze. So far, fans have gotten small teases throughout the past year with one teaser trailer, a behind the scenes video, charity campaigns, books, comics, and more rumors than even you can imagine.

Finally, we get a chance to celebrate what is soon becoming a Star Wars tradition. Friday, September 1st, marked the beginning of Force Friday II, a special merchandise event geared towards Star Wars fans. The day event celebrates the saga and the new film with a first look at toys, games, books, and concepts behind The Last Jedi. If you are excited about Episode VIII as much as I am, it will be worth taking a step out into the blazing sun to find your place in the celebration.

Best Buy's Star Wars Display
Best Buy’s Star Wars Display

Stores and locations around the globe participated in special midnight events, sales, contests, and other fun activities. Some locations are celebrating past Friday into the holiday weekend.

Toys R Us had the most elaborate displays seen throughout the day.
Toys R Us had the most elaborate displays seen throughout the day.

Some of the locations participating are Target, Walmart, Best Buy, Toys R Us, and Bed Bath and Beyond. Multiple online retailers and companies are also taking part in the fun such as Her Universe and ThinkGeek. Disney Parks hosted their own set of events, creating a frenzy in the Downtown Disney District in Anaheim. Even though I did not attend, plenty of Star Wars enthusiasts were in full force.

Throughout the weekend, the challenge will be to finding locations still stocked with the new merchandise. With hardcore fans, toy scalpers, and crowds swarming in, you will have to test your shopping skills to take home the prize.

Gamestop’s Star Wars Display.
Gamestop's Star Wars Display.
Gamestop’s Star Wars Display.

For those with the Star Wars Official App, a global augmented reality scavenger hunt is also under way. Various locations with character displays labeled, “Find the Force”, allow fans to experience and find new characters from The Last Jedi. Progress and details for each spot can be tracked in the app.

Even Bed Bath and Beyond got involved in Find the Force and special Star Wars merchandise.
Even Bed Bath and Beyond got involved in Find the Force and special Star Wars merchandise.

Global landmarks will also be taken over by ships and craft from the film, which can be saved and bring the world of Star Wars into your world with just a swipe of the finger. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or a padawan learner, more merchandise and previews are yet to come. Go out there and may the Force be with you!

 

LUCIFER: The Complete Second Season DVD Review

Lucifer ended up being a surprise success for Fox last season. Based on the popular Neil Gaiman character from his comic book series The Sandman, the character later got his own spin-off series: Lucifer. The series follows Lucifer Morningstar, ya know, the Devil. But this version of the Devil is bored with ruling over Hell, and decides to give up his throne, and head to Los Angeles. He quickly starts his own nightclub, Lux, while also beginning to work with the LAPD. Lucifer finds himself assisting Detective Chloe Decker, who’s as whip smart as she is pretty. But for Lucifer, the most interesting thing about her is that she invulnerable to his powers, catching his curiosity.

Now, the Devil’s back, and he’s better than ever, in Lucifer: The Complete Second Second. The new DVD set from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment features all eighteen episodes of the show’s sophomore season, and a few special features that fans will want to check out. Over three discs, you’ll get to follow Lucifer, Chloe, Amenadiel, and the rest of the characters as they deal with the fact that Lucifer’s mother has escaped from Hell, and is now wrecking havoc across Los Angeles.

As you can tell, the show is a bit of a procedural, much like the NCIS‘ and CSI’s of the world, but it doesn’t stop the show from actually being an entertaining watch. The show is actually fun, and a big part of that is thanks to Tom Ellis, who is just incredibly charismatic and cool as the character of Lucifer. When it comes to The Devil, you have to believe that he’s going to be able be likable, and almost unassuming to who he is. Ellis just carries himself with the perfect amount of cocky assurance and cool swagger. But you buy into the character because you like him, and Ellis make it hard to resist his charm as Lucifer, which really is the point isn’t it? We shouldn’t like Lucifer, but we do here because they make him likable, and that’s what makes the whole thing both fun and unnerving all at once.

Lucifer: The Complete Second Season comes with quite a few features that fans of the show will want to check out. As is customary for sets like this, we’re given quite a few deleted scenes across the second season’s three discs, as well as gag reel that fans will be sure to want to check out. But the two most interesting features are as follows:

  • Lucifer: Comic Con 2016 Panel: As with the other Warner DC titles, the 2016 Comic Con panel from San Diego is here for fans to enjoy. They can enjoy the cast and crew talking about the series’ first season, while teasing what’s to come in season two.
  • Reinventing Lucifer in the City of Angels: Get a look at what it’s like bringing the comic to life, and in Los Angeles, in this fifteen minute featurette.

Lucifer: The Complete Second Season is actually a lot of fun. The show embraces the absurdity of the premise and really just goes all out. The cast is fun, and the show doesn’t hit a sophomore slump like some might expect. Though for some the procedural aspect may seem like a crutch, it works against the backdrop of the larger narrative. Lucifer is one of the bright spots on Fox’s current line up, and Season Two continues that trend. It’ll be really interesting to see where Season Three goes from here. Lucifer: The Complete Second Season comes recommended.

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