To celebrate Roald Dahl’s #MatildaTheMusical release on Netflix, I'm sharing these fun facts about the film for families to enjoy. ...
To celebrate Roald Dahl’s #MatildaTheMusical release on Netflix, I'm sharing these fun facts about the film for families to enjoy.
Fun Facts for Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical
Trunchbull’s look is inspired by the famous Quentin Blake Illustrations.
Boot up. Miss Trunchbull’s distinctive boots were inspired by a 1920s Swedish deep sea diver boot, square toed with soles made out of pure lead.
Full-Stretch. The stunt performer [Leon Fagbemi] doubling for the Escapologist in the film is an artist from the Cirque du Soleil.
What’s in a name? The name “Matilda” is of Old German origin and means "mighty in battle".
Statue of Limitations. The intimidating statue of Trunchbull in the playground of Crunchem Hall is an original. Made from polystyrene and sprayed with vinyl to give it strength and texture when painted. It was a whopping 7.5 meters tall. The statue’s concrete plinth was inspired by Friedrich Engels’ statue, which can now be seen in Manchester’s city centre.
Dance Dance Revolution. Matilda The Musical boasts a dance ensemble of 250 talented kids.
Is it cake? 150 enormous chocolate cakes were made and destroyed in the filming of the musical number “Bruce”.
The Continuity department dog was on set every day - Matilda is canine Mabel’s fourth film.
Roald Dahl’s MATILDA THE MUSICAL is open in select US theaters and globally on Netflix.
SYNOPSIS
Matilda Wormwood (Alisha Weir) is a little girl with big curiosity, a sharp mind and a vivid imagination — and the worst parents in the world. While her parents (Stephen Graham and Andrea Riseborough) content themselves with trashy TV and dodgy money-making schemes, she loves to lose herself in the pages of her beloved books.
On meeting her inspirational teacher, Miss Honey (Lashana Lynch), Matilda is encouraged and begins conjuring her own fantastical tales.
Excited to attend Crunchem Hall, Matilda is surprised to find the school is an ominous and oppressive place led by the towering and villainous Miss Trunchbull (Emma Thompson).
Filled with an overwhelming sense of justice, Matilda dares to take a stand for what is right and teach Trunchbull a lesson
she won’t forget.
Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical | Official Trailer | Netflix
Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical is an inspirational musical tale of an extraordinary girl who discovers her superpower and summons the remarkable courage, against all odds, to help others change their stories, whilst also taking charge of her own destiny.
Directed by Tony Award-winning director Matthew Warchus (Matilda The Musical), the film is produced by Eric Fellner and Tim Bevan for Working Title, Jon Finn (Billy Elliot), and Luke Kelly of The Roald Dahl Story Company.
Screenwriter Dennis Kelly adapts the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production for the big screen, with original music and lyrics by Tim Minchin.
When it comes to keeping our home and work areas germ free, many of us think just hand washing and wiping down areas is enough. But what a...
When it comes to keeping our home and work areas germ free, many of us think just hand washing and wiping down areas is enough.
But what about when we travel outside our homes or have to share remote "work" space and technology?
At those times, having a Targus tech product made with DefenseGuard™ Antimicrobial Protection protects you from unwanted germs for the moment, and then keeps protecting surfaces clean by preventing the growth of microorganisms.
Unlike topically applied sprays, Targus DefenseGuard™ Antimicrobial Protection™ products are treated with an antimicrobial additive that does not wear off and lasts for the life of the product.
Who doesn't want immediate PLUS ongoing protection against germs?!
Since the antimicrobial range includes tablet cases, mice, and keyboards, it's easy to keep our working and living environment as clean as possible, particularly as we travel between home and the office.
Did you know that Targus has lots of DefenseGuard™ options to help you work, play and keep safe? Here a few I think would be perfect for keep techie families healthy.
8 Targus Antimicrobial Tech Products
Antimicrobial Stylus & Pen (3 Pack) ($19.99)
Targus Antimicrobial Active Stylus for iPad
Swipe, type, and scribble while keeping your screen free of smudges and fingerprints. Featuring a soft, durable rubber tip, this stylus makes it easy to take notes, draw or simply turn a page.
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Click-In™ Antimicrobial Case for Samsung Galaxy® Tab ($42.99)
All over coverage — front and back cover, inner lining, and tablet tray — offers full protection. A simple flip transforms your case into a sturdy stand for comfortable typing or easy viewing. Adjustable viewing angles let you customize your view. The integrated elastic loop keeps your S Pen® or stylus close at hand.
Precision cutouts offer easy access to controls, ports, and camera lenses. Even audio gets a boost with a sound-enhancing design that directs sound back toward the user.
Ultraportable Antimicrobial Mouse Mat ($14.99)
Experience smooth and accurate tracking with the Ultraportable Antimicrobial Mouse Mat. With it’s low-friction surface area and anti-slip base, the mouse pad will help to ensure precise mouse control.
Durable, portable, and infused with antimicrobial protection to help create a cleaner surface, the mouse mat is made to complement any desk set-up. Thin and lightweight, this Ultraportable Antimicrobial Mouse Mat can easily go anywhere you do.
Blue Light Filter Antimicrobial Screen Protector for Laptops ($24.99)
Protect your eyes and your screen with Targus® Antimicrobial Blue Light Filter Screen Protector for 14” Laptop Screens. Designed to reduce 45% of harmful blue light while safeguarding your device screen from scratches and fingerprints, the protector also helps reduce glare whether you’re working under bright lights or outdoors. Viewing clarity, overall brightness, and touch-sensitivity are not affected.
Ideal for your work-from-home setup or any space where privacy is already secure, this protector offers a 180° viewing angle for full visibility from the left, right, top, or bottom. Highly portable and easy to use, it can be attached in two different ways by using the included adhesive strips and corners.
Take this keyboard anywhere you go and turn any space into a workspace. Using Bluetooth® 5.1 wireless technology, the Compact Multi-Device Bluetooth® Antimicrobial Keyboard can connect to your phone, your laptop, and your tablet, and easily switch between each with the push of a button. Compatible with Chrome OS®, Windows®, macOS®, iOS®, and Android™. 2 x AAA batteries included.
SafePort® Slim Antimicrobial Case for iPad® ($47.99)
SafePort Standard Antimicrobial Case for iPad (9th, 8th, 7th gen.)
Designed with a slim profile, this case is easy to carry while it protects your iPad® (9th, 8th, and 7th gen.) 10.2-inch. Its two-piece, over-molded shell and shock-absorbing materials meet the rigorous MIL-STD-810G standards that protect your iPad from sudden drops and accidental slips.
Its structured, bi-fold front cover doubles as a stand for multiple viewing angles whether your iPad is in your hands, on the desk, or in your car. Plus, its integrated stylus holder makes it easy to store your Apple Pencil®when not in use.
BlueTrace Wireless Antimicrobial Mouse ($39.99)
Featuring a sleek, ergonomic design made for right-handed users, the BlueTrace Antimicrobial Wireless Mouse helps reduce wrist strain and offers easy access to its 7 buttons.
Features the latest BlueTrace technology, which combines the power of optical technology with the precision of laser technology for remarkable tracking on almost any surface* including wood, granite, and carpet.
2 Office Antimicrobial Backpack ($119.99)
Built for the long haul, the 15-17.3” 2 Office Antimicrobial Backpack is expertly designed for both cleanliness and usability. As a modular backpack, it’s capable of carrying exactly how much you need. And, with an antimicrobial additive infused in the bag’s material and fiber, it actively protects the bag against microbial growth.
Made to fit laptops between 15 and 17.3 inches, this antimicrobial bag’s SafePort® Sling ensures stability even when dropped. A clamshell workstation allows for optimal organization and carrying. You can even fit a full-size keyboard inside. Plus, its two front pouches are completely removable to minimize unneeded clutter.
Targus Antimicrobial Protection
Committed to creating safe and durable protection for tech and its users, the DefenseGuard™ range of accessories with integrated antimicrobial protection, is a continuous cleaning innovation designed to prevent and eliminate growth of bacteria* on product surfaces and touchpoints.
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*Testing in independent laboratories with JIS Z 2801 and ISO 22196:2011 methods show materials infused with DefenseGuardTM have a 99.9% reduction of Staph Infection and E. Coli bacteria on high-touch products and surfaces.
In this new hybrid work and home environment, the DefenseGuard™ range makes it more hygienic for families to work, carry, and even share Targus accessories.
Get ready for some galactic adventures with a new crew in Star Trek: Prodigy: Season 1 Volume 1 Blu-ray™ and DVD, releasing on January 3, 20...
Get ready for some galactic adventures with a new crew in Star Trek: Prodigy: Season 1 Volume 1 Blu-ray™ and DVD, releasing on January 3, 2023 from Paramount Home Entertainment and Nickelodeon Home Entertainment.
Star Trek: Prodigy: Season 1 Volume 1 Blu-ray/DVD ($17.99) features brave outcasts as they discover the world around them in ten adventure filled episodes!
Go beyond each episode with never-before-seen bonus content and exclusive cards featuring key art from the series!
Star Trek: Prodigy's Kate Mulgrew (Hologram Janeway), Brett Gray (Dal R'El), Ella Purnell (Geyndala), and Executive Producers Dan and Kevin Hageman recap the epic first half of Season 1 and tease what's to come.
Stream all-new episodes of Star Trek: Prodigy Thursdays, exclusively in the U.S. on Paramount+.
Star Trek: Prodigy follows a motley crew of young aliens who must figure out how to work together while navigating a greater galaxy, in search of a better future.
These six young outcasts know nothing about the ship they have commandeered a first in the history of the Star Trek franchise but over the course of their adventures together, they will each be introduced to Starfleet and the ideals it represents.
Star Trek: Prodigy: S1 V1 Episodes:
Lost and Found, Part I
Lost and Found, Part II
Starstruck
Dreamcatcher
Terror Firma
Kobayashi
First Con-tact
Time Amok
A Moral Star, Part 1
A Moral Star, Part 2
Join the cool kids as they come together as a team to navigate a cosmic collision, explore new planets, and find themselves along the way in ten adventurous episodes.
The family adventure STRANGE WORLD arrives on all major digital platforms this holiday season on December 23 and on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and...
The family adventure STRANGE WORLD arrives on all major digital platforms this holiday season on December 23 and on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD February 14.
Strange World is Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 61st animated film and will be available to enjoy at home with never-before-seen bonus features and deleted scenes.
Strange World will also be available to Disney+ subscribers starting on December 23.
SYNOPSIS
Strange World introduces a legendary family of explorers, the Clades, as they attempt to navigate an uncharted, treacherous land alongside a motley crew that includes a mischievous blob called Splat; Legend, the family dog; and a slew of ravenous creatures.
The voice cast includes Academy Award®*- and Tony Award®-nominated actor Jake Gyllenhaal as Searcher Clade, a family man who finds himself out of his element on an unpredictable mission; Emmy®- and two-time Golden Globe®-nominee Dennis Quaid as Searcher’s larger-than-life explorer father, Jaeger; comedian, actor, writer, filmmaker and musician Jaboukie Young-White as Searcher’s 16-year-old, adventure-seeking son, Ethan.
Along with actress, producer, bestselling author and TIME100 cover honoree Gabrielle Union as Meridian Clade, an accomplished pilot and Searcher’s partner in all things; and critically acclaimed actress, producer, director and fine artist Lucy Liu as Callisto Mal, Avalonia’s fearless leader who spearheads the exploration into the strange world.
Disney's Strange World | Look for It on Blu-ray & Digital
Bonus Features (vary by product and retailer)
Anatomy of a Scene: Creating A Strange World – Learn about Walt Disney Animation Studios' creative process through a single, visually stunning scene as the filmmaking team puts all of their imagination – and more – on the screen.
Strange Science – Jaboukie Young-White (voice of Ethan Clade) hosts an exploration of how Walt Disney Animation Studios artists were inspired by real science to create Strange World.
Creature Feature – Journey into the world beneath Avalonia and meet some of the terrifying, slimy, gassy – and sometimes cute – creatures that inhabit this Strange World.
The Hidden Secrets of Strange World – Uncover the references and characters from some of your favorite Walt Disney Animation Studios films hidden throughout the film, along with some fun facts and behind–the–scenes stories of how Strange World was made.
Outtakes – Go behind the glass as we join the cast of Strange World inside the recording booth for some fun, flubs and outtakes.
Deleted Scenes
The Ballad of Jaeger Clade
Lightning Lynx
Funerals and Promises
Ethan and Searcher
Helmed by director Don Hall (Oscar®-winning** Big Hero 6, Raya and the Last Dragon) and co-director/writer Qui Nguyen (co-writer Raya and the Last Dragon), and produced by Roy Conli (Oscar®-winning** Big Hero 6, Tangled).
Atomic Cartoons’ The Last Kids on Earth® – Book One is now available on Digital and DVD from NCircle Entertainment. Book One, the first...
Atomic Cartoons’ The Last Kids on Earth® – Book One is now available on Digital and DVD from NCircle Entertainment.
Book One, the first release on DVD, also includes the bonus episode “Happy Apocalypse to You.” A 10-episode Book Two DVD and a 10-episode Book Three DVD will be released in the first quarter of 2023.
Based on the #1 New York Times best-selling children’s book series, this animated series launches on DVD with a 66-minute special episode that won a Daytime Emmy® Award for Outstanding Special Class Animated Program.
Ever since the monster apocalypse hit town, average thirteen-year-old Jack Sullivan has been living in his tree house. He’s armed it to the teeth with catapults, crossbows, and a moat, not to mention video games and an endless supply of snacks scavenged from abandoned stores.
But Jack alone is no match for the hordes of Zombies and Winged Wretches and Vine-Thingies, and especially not for the eerily intelligent monster known only as Blarg.
So, Jack builds a team: his genius best friend, Quint; the reformed middle school bully, Dirk; lone wolf survivor, June Del Toro; and Jack’s loyal pet monster, Rover. With their help, Jack is going to slay Blarg, achieve the ultimate Feat of Apocalyptic Success, and be average no longer! Can he do it?
The Last Kids on Earth Book 1 Trailer | Netflix After School
Features the voices of Nick Wolfhard (Smiling Friends, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic), Montse Hernandez (Jane the Virgin, Elena of Avalor), Garland Whitt (Training Day, Save the Last Dance), as well as a celebrity cast that includes Mark Hamill, Rosario Dawson, Bruce Campbell, and Catherine O’Hara.
To learn more, visit - www.lastkidsonearth.com
On Netflix, visit - www.netflix.com/title/80219119
Winner will be selected randomly. Giveaway main entry must be completed before extra entries will count. Winner will be contacted by email and must respond within 24 hours or a new winner will be selected. Open to residents of the U.S. with a valid email and street address.
Circus Abyssinia: Tulu, showing at the New Victory Theater, offers viewers an experience into Ethiopian culture, as well as a look back into...
Circus Abyssinia: Tulu, showing at the New Victory Theater, offers viewers an experience into Ethiopian culture, as well as a look back into Olympic history.
Note: I received media tickets to the show for review purposes. Views expressed are always 100% my own.
The main idea behind Circus Abyssinia: Tulu is to honor Ethiopian runner Derartu Tulu’s 1992 gold medal win through song, dance and visual storytelling.
And while this is wonderful done, the show itself also brings the "feel" of Ethiopian culture to an outside audience. It is a great way to expose kids and families to Ethiopian talents and skills.
Overall here are three features families will enjoy
Visual Storytelling
Most of the storytelling of Circus Abyssinia: Tulu is done by movement and visual props. There's real flag waving, there's Olympic moments reenactments, there's contortionist. All of it speaking on it own with clear interpretations. All of it amazing.
Ethio-pop Music
Lots of the performances are backed with very cool sounding Ethiopian music, which both suits the performances and also sets the joyful mood for the audience.
Fire!
Seriously there's real fire. I was so amazed as I watched the performers juggle, jump through hoops and use the fire props. It was so exciting and a highlight for the audience.
Behind Circus Abyssinia
Circus Abyssinia - Tulu
While I gave 3 reasons to get tickets to see Circus Abyssinia: Tulu, I also wanted to share some behind the scene information from the producer and co-creator Mehari “Bibi” Tesfamariam and director and co-creator Binyam “Bichu” Shimellis.
Circus Abyssinia is the first circus created entirely by Ethiopian artists, all pursuing their dreams from the humble streets of Jimma to the world stage. Founded in 2017 by two brothers, Bibi and Bichu, Circus Abyssinia celebrates Ethiopian culture and Ethiopian excellence through visual and musical forms of storytelling and stunning feats of acrobatic daring.
The show takes its name from Ethiopian distance runner and Olympic legend, Derartu Tulu. Meaning both “valley” and “mountain heights”, the name Tulu plays out in the show’s dazzling feats of speed, skill and flight, in a runner’s pursuit of her horizon, all the way from Ethiopia’s Arsi highlands to her Olympic triumph.
The show also pays tribute to the great Ethiopian women and warriors of contemporary and bygone years, usually overlooked by the history books, who came before Derartu and inspired her to run.
It is significant that the starring role is a shared one in the show: every female cast member takes a turn playing Derartu, signifying her legacy as a champion for women’s rights and a trailblazer for female athletes and artists who are now following in her footsteps in Ethiopia.
Circus Abyssinia: Tulu
Returning for the holidays from December 9 through January 1, Circus Abyssinia: Tulu is a high-spirited spectacle of speed, sport and skill!
Tulu honors Ethiopian runner Derartu Tulu's trailblazing 1992 gold medal win with a nonstop marathon of aerial acts and all the excitement of the Olympic Games. Juggling flags and flames to the sounds of ’70s funk and modern-day Ethio-pop, this tribute to teamwork showcases the incredible athleticism and artistry of Ethiopian circus and the pride that Tulu’s triumph inspired.
Tulu is recommended for ages 5+
The New Victory Theater
The New Victory Theater welcomes audiences to experience performances in person, as well as pre- and post-show activities in the lower lobby, and continues to offer select on-demand options for at-home streaming.
Full price tickets range from $20 to $69 based on seating location and show. Theatergoers who buy tickets to three or more New Victory shows automatically save 40% on tickets all year long and qualify for free Membership benefits, including free unlimited exchanges up to 48 hours in advance of performance, early access to New Victory programming and savings on New Victory Family Workshops.
For many families, this time of year lots of travel away from home. To help families keep track of things while away – Kidde, the fire safet...
For many families, this time of year lots of travel away from home. To help families keep track of things while away – Kidde, the fire safety brand, has expanded with Kidde HomeSafe™ enabled devices, that enable whole-home detection of smoke, carbon monoxide, indoor air quality issues, water leaks and frozen pipes.
Note: I received product samples for review purpose. Any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.
The Kidde HomeSafe enabled devices include:
Smoke + Carbon Monoxide Alarm - detects both smoke and carbon monoxide with just one device.
Smoke + Carbon Monoxide Alarm with Indoor Air Quality Monitor - offers triple detection of smoke, carbon monoxide and indoor air quality issues, including adverse temperature, humidity levels and total volatile organic compounds.
Water Leak + Freeze Detector - helps prevent potentially costly repairs from water damage and frozen pipes by quickly alerting homeowners of water leaks or temperature drops
Kidde’s HomeSafe technology connects these Wi-Fi enabled advanced smart home devices, and their expanded sensing capabilities, to the Kidde app, providing instant notifications of home safety threats.
Kidde HomeSafe enabled devices are available at The Home Depot stores nationwide and online.
To learn more, visit - www.kidde.com/saferhometoday
The New Victory Theater announced their 2022-23 season, featuring exciting shows including Circus Abyssinia: Tulu, a showcase of the incredi...
The New Victory Theater announced their 2022-23 season, featuring exciting shows including Circus Abyssinia: Tulu, a showcase of the incredible athleticism andartistry of Ethiopian circus, which will run during the holiday season.
The New Victory Theater welcomes audiences to experience performances in person, as well as pre- and post-show activities in the lower lobby, and continues to offer select on-demand options for at-home streaming.
Full price tickets range from $20 to $69 based on seating location and show. Theatergoers who buy tickets to three or more New Victory shows automatically save 40% on tickets all year long and qualify for free Membership benefits, including free unlimited exchanges up to 48 hours in advance of performance, early access to New Victory programming and savings on New Victory Family Workshops.
Holiday Performances
Circus Abyssinia
(Ethiopian Dreams, New Victory Theater 2018) returns for the holidays from December 9 through January 1, running circles around the competition in a high-spirited spectacle of speed, sport and skill!
Tulu honors Ethiopian runner Derartu Tulu's trailblazing 1992 gold medal win with a nonstop marathon of aerial acts and all the excitement of the Olympic Games. Juggling flags and flames to the sounds of ’70s funk and modern-day Ethio-pop, this tribute to teamwork showcases the incredible athleticism and artistry of Ethiopian circus and the pride that Tulu’s triumph inspired.
Founders and performers Bibi and Bichu have dazzled audiences worldwide in shows that span the spectrum of the circus arts, from children’s television to Olivier Award-winning opera. Tulu is recommended for ages 5+
Hip Hop Cinderella
Running February 10 - 26, produced by Amas Musical Theatre in association with Hip Hop Musicals.com. The show features music and lyrics by Rona Siddiqui (A Strange Loop) and a book by Scott Elmegreen.
The galaxy has lost its groove, and so has Cinderella! Growing up on Planet Centra, she felt as limitless as the stars, but now her jealous stepmother and two selfish stepsisters have her questioning her potential.
With dazzling lyrics, pitch perfect characters and a sassy robot sidekick, Hip Hop Cinderella teleports the timeless classic across the cosmos and reminds us to reach for the farthest moon.
First launched as a piece of digital theater in 2020, Hip Hop Cinderella is blasting into the third dimension on the New Victory stage for its New York premiere! Hip Hop Cinderella is recommended for ages 7+.
A tale set long ago when the stars were still babies, and the trees and animals talked. A tale passed down from generation to generation about a water-stealing sun and a baobab tree bearing an unexpected and unusual gift.
Featuring music from Mali and Senegal, puppets large and small, one naughty monkey and a witch with an itch to dance, Baobab is a percussion-filled fable about a boy’s heroic quest to save his village from drought.
Running March 24 - April 16, throws all caution to the wind with the adrenaline-driven daredevils of Cirque Mechanics (42FT, New Victory Theater 2019) returning with an all-new mechanical masterpiece: a 20-foot-tall windmill powered by sheer strength!
Set on a rotating turntable, there's practically nothing in Zephyr that won't spin—including your head—as acrobats brazenly balance atop the windmill's blades and fearlessly face the Wheel of Destiny. A turbine tug of war between man, nature and machine, Zephyr is a whirlwind of circus that’ll blow you away.
The show is presented by Cirque Mechanics, which has visited the New Victory four times before—Birdhouse Factory in 2008, Boom Town in 2011, Pedal Punk in 2015 and 42FT in 2019. Zephyr includes several new acts for them, including foot juggling and group bicycle! Zephyr is recommended for ages 5+.
Wink
Running April 22 - May 7, brings you on an adventure where dreams take flight. Fall fast asleep and wake up in the world of Wink, where mountains morph into oceans, twinkling stars turn into fish and ships sail into the night sky.
With playful shadow puppetry, magical movement, whimsy and wonder, Spellbound Theatre (The World Inside Me, New Victory Theater 2019)
brings you the sweet dreams of a small girl and her teddy as they adventure across land, sea and air. After all, anything is possible under moonlight’s spell!
Through shadow puppetry, projections and brilliant physicality, Wink communicates a world of adventure without saying a word. Wink is recommended for ages 4-7.
Shakespeare’s Stars
Running May 11 - 21, is also created by Spellbound Theatre. Shakespeare’s Stars invites tiny hands and feet to discover infinite possibilities in an intimate multisensory experience.
Bringing The Bard’s best lines about the cosmos to life with starlit props, musical instruments and mesmerizing movement, this gentle show reminds us that “we are such stuff as dreams are made on.” Spellbound Theatre developed Shakespeare's Stars as part of New Victory LabWorks in 2019 and 2020.
Other Spellbound works developed in LabWorks include The World Inside Me in 2016-17 and Ears, Nose, and Tail in 2014-15. Shakespeare’s Stars is recommended for ages 0-3
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The lastest NYC Winter Lantern Festival location has opened at Queens County Farm Museum in Floral Park, Queens, for Illuminate the Farm’s 2...
The lastest NYC Winter Lantern Festival location has opened at Queens County Farm Museum in Floral Park, Queens, for Illuminate the Farm’s 2022-2023 holiday season, open now through January 8, 2023.
The NYC Winter Lantern Festival at Queens County Farm Museum will bring dreams to life with illuminated swings and Chinese lanterns inspired by mythical creatures and legends with FREE parking on-site.
In addition, the NYC Winter Lantern Festival will feature a “face changing” performance which is an ancient Chinese dramatic art that is part of the more general Sichuan opera – only available at the Queens County Farm Museum location.
The NYC Winter Lantern Festival will also be open through Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve at all locations.
2022 holiday season started in October and has added NEW locations including the Queens County Farm Museum, SIUH Community Park in Staten Island, Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn, and Smithtown Historical Society in Suffolk County.
NYC Winter Lantern Festival Locations
Winter Lantern Festival Promo 2022
NYC Winter Lantern Festival will feature over ten thousand of handmade Chinese lanterns created by over one hundred artists, illuminated by LED lights that can reach up to 30 feet high across a total of 60 acres.
“Journey to the East” at SIUH Community Park
Located at 75 Richmond Terrace in Staten Island near Empire Outlets – Available from October 21, 2022, to January 8, 2023, visitors can walk and wander through a world inspired by Chinese myths and legends including a larger-than-life handmade lantern display of Sun Wukong, the Monkey King.
In addition, lantern displays will include an animal kingdom, sea world, theme park, and illuminated tunnels. There will also be illuminated (rideable) swings, food vendors, and great photo ops!
From October 29, 2022, to December 23, 2022, hours are Fridays to Sundays 5 pm to 9:30 pm, then from December 23, 2022, to January 1, 2023 the show will be available daily (5-9:30 pm). $28.99 plus tax for adults and $17.99 plus tax for kids.
“Nassau Drive-Thru Adventure” at Nassau County Museum of Art
Located at One Museum Dr. in Roslyn – Available from October 21, 2022, to January 15, 2023, this is the only immersive drive-through experience with illuminated tunnels and Chinese lanterns inspired by outer space. Visitors will move between planets, rockets, astronauts and more.
From October 21 to January 15, hours are Thursdays to Sundays 5 pm to 9 pm. From December 23, 2022, to January 1, 2023, hours are daily from 5-9 pm. $50 plus tax per vehicle.
NEW! “Suffolk Winter Lantern Festival” at Smithtown Historical Society
Located at 239 East Main Street in Smithtown – Available from November 4, 2022, to January 8, 2023, this is the first show in Suffolk by the NYC Winter Lantern Festival which will transform Smithtown into a magical light display featuring flowers, animals, and much more.
Hours are Friday to Sundays 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm. $22 plus tax for adults and $12 plus tax for kids.
“Illuminate the Farm” at Queens County Farm Museum
Located at 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Queens – Available from November 11, 2022, to January 8, 2023, this experience will feature a dazzling display of lights and illuminated Chinese lanterns – all handmade by artisans with decades of dedication to their craft.
Visitors can expect a luminescent display inspired by theme parks and Chinese myths and legends, along with illuminated tunnels, illuminated rideable swings, and much more.
From October 29 to December 23, 2022, hours are Friday to Sundays 5-9 pm. From December 23, 2022 to January 1, 2023, hours are daily from 5-9 pm. $26.99 plus tax for adults and $17.99 plus tax for kids.
Created by Kaleido Arts & Entertainment Group, NYC Winter Lantern Festival will open throughout the fall on various dates based on location, featuring a total of over 10,000 of LED Chinese-inspired artisan lanterns, along with live performances at select locations and on-site food vendors.
A holiday skating rink is opening at The New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) on Saturday, December 10, to allow children and families to skate ...
A holiday skating rink is opening at The New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) on Saturday, December 10, to allow children and families to skate in a warm, indoor climate-controlled environment.
The rink, which will be built out of a non-ice, eco-friendly polymer-based material, will be open from 10AM to 5PM Wednesday through Sunday, through March 5.
It will also be open during schools-out holidays, Monday through Friday, December 26-31, January 16 (Martin Luther King, Jr. Day), and February 20-24.
Entry to the rink costs $10 and comes in addition to the cost of museum entry (entry into the museum costs $16 for adults and $13 for children). Museum members will receive a 20 percent discount.
The new rink is another family-friendly offering by NYSCI - from new exhibits like Powering the City and Small Discoveries to inspiring art by sculptural painter Kyung Youl Yoon.
In celebration of Computer Science Education Week (Dec 5-11), Apple Stores in NYC has new free coding session for kids, to learn to build an...
In celebration of Computer Science Education Week (Dec 5-11), Apple Stores in NYC has new free coding session for kids, to learn to build an app at their local Apple Store.
Sessions begin Monday, December 5, as part of the free Today at Apple program. The new activity — Coding Lab for Kids: Code Your First App — is designed for participants ages 10+ to explore app development in a fun, welcoming environment.
This new session will resemble using the Swift Playgrounds app — Apple’s fun and easy-to-use app that now takes learners from their first line of code to their first app.
In this 60-minute session, you’ll be shown how to get started with coding using the Swift Playgrounds app. Bring your iPad or one will be provide.
Anyone, including families and groups, can find sessions nearby and register.
Learn more, visit - www.apple.co/coding-sessions
For more ways for kids and families can learn coding, here are a few app collections to explore.
Everyone Can Code - (apps.apple.com/story/id1268891853)
These apps can provide a better understanding of the fundamental principles of programming or help you dive into specific languages, from Swift to C++.
Learn to Code at Any Age - (apps.apple.com/story/id1287161876)
Whether you’re after video lessons for your kids or immersive coding adventures just for you, these handpicked tools will get you started.
It’s Fun to Code! - (apps.apple.com/us/story/id1313443967)
Start little ones with this selection of child-friendly apps filled with colorful puzzles, bite-size videos and cuddly characters. Your kids will learn all about code without actually needing to write any.
French Chef Julien Khalaf has opened a new boulangerie/patisserie in Manhattan stocked with fresh croissants, artisanal breads, macarons, de...
French Chef Julien Khalaf has opened a new boulangerie/patisserie in Manhattan stocked with fresh croissants, artisanal breads, macarons, decadent pastries, as well as homemade sorbet and gelato.
Note: I was invited as media to this event. Any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.
I was invited to visit the new Julien Boulangerie location, the fourth and largest in NYC, to enjoy a some treats from the menu, including a few special holiday items (available for pre-order).
Some of the items included
Pecan tart made with caramelized maple syrup mix using the croissant tart shell.
Cranberry loaf is made with their special French flour.
Pumpkin loaf made with pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and brown sugar topped with pumpkin seeds.
Apple tart is made with caramelized apples baked into the croissant tart shell.
Pumpkin twist made of croissant dough filled with pumpkin pastry cream.
My first impression of the store is it's bright, airy and smells great. I like that the pastries are upfront and easy to see, so you can quickly pick a treat.
Unlike his other locations throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn, the new venue features an expanded kitchen and baking area where Julien's team of trained bakers create golden baguettes and specialty breads, flaky croissants and an array of indulgent pastries, quiches and tarts.
Then there's the sitting area in the back where you can semi hide away and enjoy yummy pastries and coffee. Which is exactly what I did.
While I enjoyed the bakery items, visitors can also get full range of grab-and-go items for lunch including salads, fresh baguette sandwiches and homemade quiche.
New episodes of Season One of “Star Trek: Prodigy” are now playing on Paramount+ and I've enjoyed joining the Protostar crew on new adv...
New episodes of Season One of “Star Trek: Prodigy” are now playing on Paramount+ and I've enjoyed joining the Protostar crew on new adventures.
Note: I was invited as media for screening and cast interview. However any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.
Along with watching new episodes, I was also able to interview the Prodigy cast including Kate Mulgrew (Hologram Kathryn Janeway), Brett Gray (Dal), Ella Purnell (Gwyn)!
While watching the new episodes, I started having so many questions and I couldn't wait to hear what the cast had to say about their character developments.
For Kate Mulgrew, who voice both Hologram Kathryn Janeway and Vice Admiral Kathryn Janeway in the “Star Trek: Prodigy”, I wanted to know
What first interested you in the role? And now is your character still interesting and exciting?
Kate Mulgrew: Well, as you know, Star Trek is never dull, right? The excitement is infinite, it has to be! So the fact that I get to play Vice Admiral Janeway, and Mirror Janeway, and Hologram Janeway, and god knows whatever other incarnations of Janeway they have up their sleeve, is part of the delight.
But also, very much a part of the dramatic tension, very much a part of that. And the possibilities are infinite. So the sky’s the limit here – or I should say, space is the limit here. And that’s a great part of the joy of doing it.
Motivation to Voice Star Trek Animated Character
Kate Mulgrew: Well, it was a very lovely invitation from Alex Kurtzman, who as you know has now assumed the mantle of the entire Franchise. And I can’t think of anybody with a more compelling way of extending an invitation.
The way he framed it, that this would be an animated series targeted to children, a demographic we have somehow managed to avoid in all of these years – and the very demographic that will love it and embrace it the most.
How could I possibly say “no”? I said, “Absolutely, let’s go and let’s give it everything we’ve got.” And I think it’s beautifully done, and I think Dan and Kevin Hageman are geniuses.
How Voicing Two Janeways Compares
Kate Mulgrew: Well, it can only help me, because Janeway bas been living inside of me for upwards of twenty-eight years. So she resides within me, I tap on her.
But then I get to go further with Vice Admiral Janeway and Hologram Janeway, and all the other incarnations that may or may not ensue. So it’s nothing but fun.
Using my voice alone allows me a certain freedom and latitude that live action did not.
Preparing to Voice Her Janeway Characters
Kate Mulgrew: Do you know what I have that supersedes all of that? I have a robust imagination, which seems to know no bounds.
So once I get into that booth and put on those headsets, I let it go. I mean, there’s not even a scintilla of holding back or resistance of any kind.
And within my consciousness I can go wherever I want to go, and I have all kinds of vocal dramatic moments. There’s a great spectrum to what I can do with my voice.
Which Janeway Character Gets Voice First
Kate Mulgrew: I like to do it all at once. And what I really like to do, because they asked me this themselves – they say, “do you want to do Vice Admiral Janeway first and then we’ll do Hologram?” I say, “No, let’s just do them back to back. Let’s mix it up.”
I like to see if I can trick my head into going back and forth between characters – and I can, because I’ve established a protocol in my mind for each of them.
Difference Between Live Action and Voiceover
Kate Mulgrew: I would say aside from the integrity of my voice, or shall I say the variety in my voice, no (difference). Because live action is a very, very demanding and immediate craft.
In the voice over acting, I have a lot of space, and I use it. I love it. I mean, there’s real liberty in that recording booth with these characters. And it’s actually extremely rewarding work.
I'm so honored I had the chance to interview Kate and share her excitement to continue to have her Janeway character continue on adventures!
SYNOPSIS
STAR TREK: PRODIGY currently streams exclusively on Paramount+
Developed by Emmy® Award winners Kevin and Dan Hageman (“Trollhunters” and “Ninjago”), the CG-animated series STAR TREK: PRODIGY is the first “Star Trek” series aimed at younger audiences.
Follow a motley crew of young aliens who must figure out how to work together while navigating a greater galaxy, in search of a better future.
These six young outcasts know nothing about the ship they have commandeered – a first in the history of the “Star Trek” franchise – but over the course of their adventures together, they will each be introduced to Starfleet and the ideals it represents.
In the remaining STAR TREK: PRODIGY season one episodes, as the hopeful crew makes their way towards Starfleet, their dreams are threatened when they discover the U.S.S. Protostar harbors a weapon designed to tear the United Federation of Planets apart.
To make matters worse, the U.S.S. Dauntless is on a manhunt for the Protostar as the real Vice Admiral Janeway is eager to uncover what happened to her missing former First Officer Chakotay. With these two ships on a collision course and destruction on the horizon, the fate of the Alpha Quadrant hangs in the balance.
The holidays are the perfect time to upgrade technology, whether it’s for a student with countless extracurriculars, a working parent bounci...
The holidays are the perfect time to upgrade technology, whether it’s for a student with countless extracurriculars, a working parent bouncing between the office and kids’ activities, or a friend who seems to live at the airport.
Note: This posted was written in partnership with Microsoft Store. Views expressed are always 100% my own.
Here are some ideas for the perfect tech to make this person’s life easier this holiday season, with Microsoft’s selection of commuter-friendly devices.
For the person who already has a primary PC. The Surface Laptop Go2 is the lightest Surface laptop and perfect for someone who needs a second device. Available in sage, ice blue, sandstone, and platinum there’s sure to be a striking color for anyone on your list.
Surface Go 3
For the commuter or student always on the go. Surface Go 3 is the most portable Surface touchscreen 2-in-1 with added horsepower so they can learn, listen, or play from anywhere.
Surface Laptop 4
For the student who does it all. Surface Laptop 4 has a perfect balance of sleek design, speed, immersive audio, and a battery life that will last through even the longest study session.
Surface Pen
For the artistic student or hands-on learner. Surface Pen delivers a natural writing and drawing experience, with ink that flows out lag-free in real time and 4,096 pressure points that respond to the lightest touch allowing for precision sketching and shading.
Microsoft Gift Card
Sometimes, the best gift of all is the gift of choice. Let the student in your life stock up on their favorite games, entertainment, and tech accessories with a Microsoft Gift Card.
Microsoft 365 Family plan subscription
Purchase powerful productivity and security apps for the whole family (up to six people). Access smart assistance features in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, save and share files and photos across devices with OneDrive, set location alerts in the Microsoft Family Safety mobile app, and more.
Microsoft’s Tech Gifts for Gamers:
It isn’t always easy to find the perfect gift for a gamer. They know what they like, and probably know a lot more about their specific preferences than you do! That’s why Microsoft has created a gift guide with a variety of options for every gamer to enjoy.
Surface Laptop Studio
Spoil your gamer with console-caliber gaming from the most powerful Surface Laptop. Elevate their PC gaming experience with graphics that rival reality and one month of free Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
Xbox Series S
For the dorm-room gamer, give the gift of Microsoft’s smallest, sleekest console ever. When paired with Xbox Game Pass, players receive access to hundreds of beloved games including Microsoft Flight Simulator, Forza Horizon 5, and more. Consider See the source pairing it with a custom controller or accessory from Xbox Design Lab as a stocking stuffer.
Surface Pro 8
brings an entirely modernized redesign to the most powerful Pro. Get more screen on a high-resolution 13-inch display and enjoy console-caliber gaming. Perfect for the student who could use a study break.
PC Game Pass
For the gamer on the go or who prefers gaming from their desk. PC Game Pass grants access to a library of high-quality PC games and an EA Play membership that unlocks EA’s bets-loved series and top titles. P.s. digital content makes a great last-minute gift in case you’re in a bind.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
For the Xbox fan or loved one who just got a new Xbox. Give the gift of over 100 high-quality games that can be played with friends on console, PC, phones and tablets.
Microsoft’s Tech Stocking Stuffers:
These Microsoft products under $50 make perfect stocking stuffers or small gifts for party games this holiday season.
Microsoft Modern Mobile Mouse
Upgrade a work or school setup with a lightweight and portable mouse that works on a variety of surfaces thanks to BlueTrack technology.
$50 Microsoft Gift Card
Give loved ones the gift of choice this holiday season and allow them to stock up on their favorite games, entertainment, and tech accessories with a Microsoft Gift Card
Microsoft Ocean Plastic Mouse
For the sustainability-minded person on your list. This mouse is made with recycled ocean plastic from plastic waste that is recovered from oceans and waterways, cleaned, and processed into recyclable plastic resin pellets.
Microsoft Store Promise
Purchasing from Microsoft Store comes with the Microsoft Store Promise, which gives customers confidence in their purchases during this shopping season.
Enjoy fast and free 2-3-day shipping, flexible payment options, extended free holiday returns and an extended low-price promise. Microsoft Store offers free personal shopping, set-up and training sessions with a Microsoft product expert to help people choose the perfect gift for everyone on their list.
Learn more or sign up for 1:1 sessions, visit - www.microsoft.com
Holiday get togethers are the perfect time to get creative—whether it’s adding a sentimental touch to any holiday tradition or giving guests...
Holiday get togethers are the perfect time to get creative—whether it’s adding a sentimental touch to any holiday tradition or giving guests a personalized gift,—Brother wants to make all DIYers dreams come true with these craft ideas.
From creating specialized labels with The Brother P-touch Embellish Ribbon & Tape Printer for guests to keep track of their drinks, to personalizing napkins with the Brother PE900 5” x 7” Embroidery Only Machine for party gifts, you can throw together an unforgettable DIY party.
The Brother P-touch Embellish Ribbon & Tape Printer PT-D215e ($59.99) allows you to add your own personal, decorative touch to parties, gifts, crafts and more!
P-touch Embellish provides unique functionality for personalization and crafting and can also be used for organization tasks and projects. It’s easy to create your own decorative ribbon and tape accents using the easily portable P-touch Embellish.
The Brother CP100X 100-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine ($249.99) brings high-quality sewing to your personal craft room.
Designed for ease of use and durability with convenient features like a sharp LCD display, an automatic needle threader, Quick-Set bobbin system, and adjustable sewing speed control.
Select from 100 unique built-in stitches and 8 styles to amplify your creativity for a refined sewing experience.
The Brother CS700X 70-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine with Wide Table ($219.99) feature rich, sewing and quilting machine is a great option for a range of users. The CS7000X is designed for ease of use, with convenient features like the LCD display, new higher end automatic needle threader, easy-to-follow threading diagrams, Quick-set bobbin system and adjustable sewing speed control.
The Brother PE900 5” x 7” Embroidery Only Machine ($1,149.99) adds a personalized touch of embroidery to virtually all your projects. Choose from 193 built-in embroidery designs, 13 built-in embroidery fonts or download a design of your choice from the Brother iBroidery platform for even more creativity.
Draw your next project on the Artspira App. With an array of patterns and cut data you can download, plus the ability to make embroidery patterns by drawing on your mobile device, and then transferring them to your PE900 wirelessly, the Artspira App will have you creating on the go.
The Brother ScanNCut DX ($299.99) is the only affordable and versatile cutting machine with a built-in scanner for making all of life's moments stand out.
It's so easy to use, with features like Blade Sensor Technology (that automatically adjusts for material thickness) and more than 250 built-in designs, patterns and fonts to get your creative juices flowing. PLUS advanced editing with CanvasWorkspace to help showcase your advancing skills.
The Brother P-touch Embellish ELITE Connectable Decorative Ribbon and Tape Printer PTP715eBT ($129.99), is a unique, Bluetooth® enabled crafting machine that uses (24mm) wide ribbons and decorative tapes, offering more fonts, more symbols and even more design options to inspire your inner crafter.
Crafters of all levels will be inspired by the collection of craft templates, fonts, patterns, symbols and emojis available via smartphone, tablet or PC.
With the holidays right around the corner, Brother, a leading supplier of innovative products for the home sewing and crafting enthusiast is thinking ahead to all your DIY entertainment needs!
In the short film AYSHA, director Cengiz Akaygun shares a story of two young girls living through a harrowing war, and a choice their mother...
In the short film AYSHA, director Cengiz Akaygun shares a story of two young girls living through a harrowing war, and a choice their mother is forced to make.
I was able to screen the film and was amazed how powerful it was for such a short film. AYSHA offers a look into a family trying to survive in a country, when a war has taken much from them. And still wants more. What is a parent to do to safe guard her child's life and future?
I was so touched by the story-line of a mother's choice, a choice that her child battles to understand and accept. I was able to discuss the message of the film during my interviewed with Director Cengiz Akaygun.
The Take Away Message
Cengiz Akaygun: AYSHA has several ways how you can understand the film. I think one important message is that wars senseless and destroys lives of innocent people, especially children.
Look at how many non-essential wars are still happening, even today in our time.
Process of Filming
Cengiz Akaygun: In total we had 3 filming days and one test day. But we could not use all the days. Normally a shooting days has 8 or 10 hours, but I had two children on set so it's not possible to work with them so long.
And another problem was the sun, we had to work with the sun hours. The sun hours we need are early in the morning to late afternoon. So per day we had 3 or 4 hours. so it was not easy to get what we want.
Cengiz Akaygun: Also from time to time, we had rain. That was the difficult time of working on set. But at the end of the day, we did it.
I worked with a small team because of limited funding, but we had a lot of supporters like friends, family, companies and so on who helped us. Otherwise it was not possible.
Location of Filming
Cengiz Akaygun: In the beginning I had the plan to shoot the movie in South of Italy, there was a little earth quake city from the middle 60's. The city is completely destroyed from the earthquake and is not livable. It was perfect for us.
The plan was to replace this region of Italy with a city in Syria. But the plan failed because the pandemic happened. We couldn't shoot the movie because all the airports and borders were closed.
Cengiz Akaygun: After 6 months later of waiting, I decided to find a location in Germany and shoot with a small team there. Because of that, the biggest challenge was to find a small backyard of a house, which seems like a house in Syria.
At first I couldn't find something like that, but later I had the idea to ask house demolition companies, because I thought these houses are going to be destroyed anyway. So before they destroy these houses, I can do with them what I want.
Cengiz Akaygun: I found a company and a house with plans to be destroyed. The owner of this company was also interested in this story and help us a lot. This man wasn't just the owner of this demolition company, he was also a member of the city council. Coincidentally his part had a candidate for that year, and guess what her name was....AYSHA
I understood why he also loved my story so much! *laughing*
AYSHA a small, rebellious girl wearing a full-body veil, and her sister are put to a religious test in a backyard in Rojava (Syria) by a covered woman. However, the strong-headed Aysha is struggling with identity and decides to take a stand.
Writer, director and producer Cengiz Akaygün works focus on socially critical themes. He has received numerous awards for his short films. In 2020, he was nominated twice for the Human Rights Film Award in Germany.
For his last short film AYSHA he received the Short Film Award at the 55th HOF International Film Festival in Germany. Currently, Aysha is in the pre-selection for the German Short Film Award. Now, this ground-breaking film is in consideration for an OSCAR®.
The cinematography was created by Kevin Hartfiel and the musical composition is by Conrad Oleak.
Have a list of people you need to get tech gifts for? Or maybe you want a tech device yourself but not sure about the specs? If the item can...
Have a list of people you need to get tech gifts for? Or maybe you want a tech device yourself but not sure about the specs? If the item can be found in a Microsoft Store, then I suggest making a free virtual appointment!
Please Note: This posted was written in partnership with Microsoft Store. Views expressed are always 100% my own.
Neither did I until the Microsoft Store team suggested it when I needed help with a few things, including understanding Windows 11 and comparison shopping for a new laptop!
Using Microsoft Store’s Appointments for Personal Shopping and Training
Making an appointment was easy. I just pick the topic I needed help with, day and time I'm available and done! Next I received an email with all the details including the Microsoft Teams video link.
After logging into my Microsoft Store virtual appointment, I meet with a real person to discuss my topic. My first appt was for training to understand Windows 11.
The expert walked me through features of the program, answered any questions I had about using certain apps and even demoed how to do certain tasks. I now can use Windows 11 more fully.
I was so impressed with the service that I wanted to use it again when I was interested in a Surface device, but wasn't sure which one I needed.
Instead of going into a Microsoft Store location, I was able to schedule an online personal shopping appt to discuss Surface devices features, specs and even compare models. Again the live expert walked me through everything and answered my questions.
I was able to decided which Surface device was best for me and simplify my shopping decision. They even offered a few tips about holiday shopping to get the best deals. Now when I shop either online or in the store, I know what to get!
Both my Microsoft Store virtual appointments really helped me and was so useful. Everyone needs to use this service!
Microsoft Store’s Appointments
Holiday shopping can be a bit overwhelming. Between trying to find the perfect thing for everyone on your list, to trying to stretch budgets amidst inflation and capture the best prices of the season, and making sure presents arrive on time – it can be a lot!
Microsoft Store is here to help – from the free personal shopping appointments, to extended holiday price promise guaranteeing best deal of the season, to free and fast shipping and digital gifts for the true last-minute crunch.
Microsoft Store offers free, personal shopping, setup and training appointments with knowledgeable product experts both online, from the comfort of customers’ homes, and at Microsoft Experience Center in Manhattan.
In personal shopping appointments, get help to take the stress out of finding the right gift for the trickiest people on your list. You tell us about your loved ones, your budget, and we’ll suggest the perfect device or game or accessory to wow them.
Attending a personal shopping appointment will help you select a Surface device that best fits your needs and lifestyle and allow you to learn more about Microsoft’s holiday lineup.
Additionally, buying through Microsoft Store is the gift that keeps giving. Once someone has their device, we also offer free 1:1 setup and training appointments.
Setup appointments help customers get right to using their new device upon purchase. Imagine seeing your kid’s face light up on a holiday morning when they unbox an Xbox that is ready to play!
Training appointments help customers get the most out of their new gifts post-holiday. Perfect for when you give your parents a Surface Go for their travels, but can’t be their personal tech support. We stick around to walk you, or your parents, through the device and software well after the gifting fun!
Finally, purchasing from Microsoft Store comes with the Microsoft Store Promise, which gives customers confidence in their purchases during this shopping season. Enjoy fast and free 2-3-day shipping, flexible payment options, extended free holiday returns and an extended low-price promise.
These days most tweens and teens have a smartphone to keep connected with family and friends. But for some families adding more devices on s...
These days most tweens and teens have a smartphone to keep connected with family and friends. But for some families adding more devices on some service plans can become complicated and pricey.
Note: I received a product service for review purposes. Views expressed are always 100% my own.
For families looking for a more flexible and affordable option, there's TextNow, a free cellular and WiFi-enabled phone service that doesn’t rely on a plan or contract, which means you could save the approx $120.00 a phone plan costs.
To use the TextNow you'll need to purchase a TextNow activation kit ($0.99), which comes with a SIM card that gives unlocked Android or iPhone devices access to their unlimited nationwide talk and text service for $0/month.
To try out the service, I received an activation kit to use with my own Android phones. Then I simply changed the SIM card, downloaded the app, followed the prompts and started the free service.
Here a few things you need to be aware of
You need to already have your own phone unlocked. TextNow does not provide phones
You can use your own phone number or pick a new TextNow number for free.
The free service is ad supported. But there is low cost plans ($9.99/month) you can pay for to remove ads.
There is no data with the free service. But there is various low cost data plans you can pay for ranging from $8.99 - $28/month
Since I only used the service for texting and phone calls, I think overall the service does what it says.
I was able to get a new phone number for my teen son, we texted and called back and forth without needing WiFi service and there's no big phonebill at the end of the month.
For families looking for low cost service for the tween and tween texting and phone needs, it's a great option.
