Kristin’s Kickbacks List Week of 8-20

August 20. 7-9:30 p.m. Keyes Lexus of Valencia has Jazz and Blues concert series every Friday night thru Aug. 27. This week: The Delgado Brothers. Food & Beverages for sale (No outside food or beverages; no pets allowed.) Activities for the kids. Downtown Valencia in the street on Town Center Drive at McBean Parkway in Santa Clarita. www.valenciajazzandblues.com (Thanks, Kristi!)

August 20. 6:30-7:30 p.m. and 8-9 p.m. FREE Friday Night Sing-Along at the W.M. Keck Amphitheatre, Walt Disney Concert Hall. Sing Broadway show tunes. Tickets distributed 30 minutes before the program starts. 111 S. Grand Ave., L.A. 213-972-3660.

August 21. 9:30AM-10:05 or 11-11:45. FREE Kids Rhythm Club Drum Circle. Drum Provided. No reservations needed. Event every Saturday morning at REMO Recreational Music Center, 7308 Coldwater Canyon, North Hollywood, 91605.
(1/2 block North of Sherman Way). Journey and explore music making through rhythm, song, and fun activities. Recommended ages for kids: 2 to 12, but all ages are welcome.
Parents must stay with children. (Thanks, Diane!)

August 21. 7-10 p.m. Warner Park: Movies on the Green. Movie begins about ½ hour after sunset. This week’s movie is: Up (PG). Outdoor family movies are presented on Saturday evenings through August 28th and are projected on a 30’ screen with digital projection and 7.1 surround sound. 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills.

August 21. 6-8 p.m. Free weekly summer concerts at Simi Valley Town Center. This week: Rio Carnivale - Brasil Brazil! 1555 Simi Town Center Way, Simi Valley, 93065. (805) 581-1430.

August 21-22. 4-5:30 p.m. Garden Concerts for Kids at the Getty. Free admission; no reservations required. This week features Sarah Lee Guthrie. Sarah Lee Guthrie brings charm and heart to her alt-country music for children and families. Accompanied by her husband and kids, Guthrie continues the song-making tradition forged by her grandfather Woody and father Arlo, presenting thoughtful, playful music inspired by folk traditions as well as bright new compositions. 1200 Getty Center Dr., L.A., 90049. (310) 440-7300. Parking is $15.

August 21. 5-7 p.m. FREE weekly concerts at Dorothy Collins Brown Amphitheater at LACMA, in Hancock Park north of the museum. This week: Alfredo de la Fe. Cuban-born and New York-based violinist Alfredo de la Fe helped transformed the violin into an important sound of salsa and Latin music. The first solo violinist to perform with a salsa orchestra, de la Fe has toured the world more than thirty times, appearing in concert and recordings with such top-ranked Latin artists as Eddie Palmieri, Tito Puente, Celia Cruz, José Alberto "El Canario", Cheo Feliciano, the Fania All-Stars and Santana. His second solo album, Alfredo, received a Grammy nomination for Best Latin Album.

August 22. 6 p.m. FREE weekly concerts at LACMA. These one-hour concerts are presented free to the public on Sundays in the Leo S. Bing Theater. This week: Pianist Andreas Klein performs Mozart: Sonata in A minor, K.31, Brahms: Sonata No. 3 in F Minor, Opus 5.

August 22. 3:30 p.m. FREE concert for families at Levitt Pavilion, MacArthur Park, 2230 W. Sixth St., L.A. 213-384-5701. Bob Baker Marionettes. Amazing puppetry enjoyed by generations of children. Open lawn seating. The Levitt Pavilion MacArthur Park is located in the northwest corner of the park near the intersection of West 6th Street and S. Park View Street, just west of downtown Los Angeles. 3:30pm Activities for youth and families. 4:30pm Showcase of local youth talent. 6 pm Featured youth band.

August 22. 6 p.m.-8 p.m. FREE weekly concerts in the park. Warner Park, 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Ticket To Ride--a BEATLES tribute.

August 23. 10 a.m. Last week of the FREE Monday Morning Concerts for children at the Madrid Theatre in Canoga Park. This week looks like a lot of fun! Come join me and my kids if you’re available that day. Admission is first-come, first-served basis. I usually go around 9:30 and bring coins for parking meters. 21622 Sherman Way, Canoga Park, CA 91303 – 818-347-9938. This week’s concert is: A CLASSICAL BLAST - A classical pianist accompanied by a mime.

August 23. Starts at dusk. FREE. Last week of Monday Movie Nights at Simi Valley Town Center mall in food court area, some seating, okay to bring chairs. Movie this week is Old Dogs (PG).

August 23 and August 26. 10 a.m. Last week of free movies at The Promenade at Westlake! This week: Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel (PG). Free family movies at Mann Westlake 8 Theatres, Mondays and Thursdays. Plus, receive a KIDS EAT FREE postcard when you see a movie during the Summer Film Festival. Enjoy lunch at one of The Promenade restaurants listed below, where you will receive a free kids meal with purchase of any adult entree and beverage. 180 Promenade Way, Promenade Mall, Westlake Village, 91362. (805) 379-2299.

August 24. 6 p.m. Free Kids’ Club at The Commons at Calabasas. 4799 Commons Way, Calabasas. This week come enjoy Music with Wendee, a popular children’s musician.

August 24 & 26. 10 a.m. Last week of free movies at the Mann Janss Marketplace 9. This week: Monster House (PG). 255 North Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks, 91360. (805) 374-9656

August 25. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Free Kids’ Club at The Lakes at Thousand Oaks. Come enjoy a WILDLIFE RESCUE SHOW. The Nature of Wildworks presents an educational morning of animal fun. You'll even get a chance to meet the animals up close! 2200 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., T.O.

August 25. 7 p.m. FREE. Children’s Night at Levitt Pavilion with Debi Derryberry. 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena.

August 26. 8 p.m. Free All-Time Favorite Movies Under The Stars! The Grove Presents Movies in The Park. This week is UP (PG). Bring a blanket (no chairs, please) and have a magical evening at The Grove. The event opens for general grass and bleacher seating at 7:15pm. For early access, and to bypass the line, simply pre-order gourmet picnics from any of The Grove's fine restaurants or purchase gourmet picnics in The Park. Compliment your outdoor movie experience with a delicious meal. Early access begins at 6:30pm. Only The Grove food permitted in The Park, please. 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90036. PHONE 323.900.8080.

August 26. 6-9 p.m. Last week of Thursday night summer concerts at the Autry Museum (across from L.A. Zoo). See top Latin bands in a fun, casual, energetic setting on the Autry plaza. The taco and drink bar open at 6:00 p.m., and the museum and museum store close at 8:00 p.m. Complimentary dance lessons and a separate dance floor for kids guarantee fun for all! Free for Autry members / $7 for nonmembers. This week: Johnny Polanco y su Conjunto Amistad. One of the most sought-after bandleaders in the U.S, Polanco has gained recognition for making the type of contagious Latin music that is truly appreciated by anyone who loves to dance. Throughout nearly 35 years of professional musicianship, Polanco has achieved a high level of skill on thirteen instruments, including the tres and cuatro guitar, trombone, and vibes.

August 26-29. Old Navy, Banana Republic, and The Gap Give & Get Sale! Take an extra 30% off your entire purchase with this coupon!! Enjoy 30% off and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society gets 5% of what you spend. Valid in-store only.

Movies
Toy Story 3 is now playing at the discount theatres in Pasadena and Simi Valley if you haven’t seen it or want to see it again.

Simi Valley 10 Cinemas
http://www.simivalley10.com/
Matinee: $3.00 Evening: $3.75
Box Office: (805)526-4329
1457 Los Angeles Ave., Simi Valley CA, 93065

Academy Cinemas - Pasadena
1003 E. Colorado Blvd
At Colorado & Catalina
Pasadena, CA. 91106
626-229-9400
http://www.regencymovies.com/main.php?theaterId=8
Matinee Admission $2.00 Films starting at and before 6pm
Evening Admission $3.00 Films starting after 6pm
Wednesday Night Special! Movies starting at 6 PM and later are a great deal for you and a buddy! You and a companion get 2 admissions, 2 popcorns and 2 sodas for only $10!

Back-to-School Deals
There are a lot of back to school sales for school supplies right now. Check out this link Janet sent me for a great chart of sales at various stores. http://www.saveathomemommy.com/2010/08/school-supply-deals-815-21/

Photo Deals
Picaboo is offering a FREE classic photo book during August. Just design your own photo book at Picaboo. Get it FREE with code FREEBK until 8/31. To design your book you will need to download Picaboo’s free software Make sure to design a large Classic, Classic Leather, or Classic Custom book by August 31. The total cost of your book (up to 20 pages) will be deducted from your order total. This is a $39 value and you just pay the shipping of $8.99. This offer is available to new Picaboo members only. The website is www.picaboo.com

Here’s another photo deal. Through 9/1, you can order 3 Free 5×7 Folded Photo Cards from Shutterfly (just pay shipping, just over $1). www.shutterfly.com I took advantage of this deal earlier in the year and made great Father’s Day cards for my hubby and dad. At checkout, enter code: SUMMERCARDS. Here’s how to order the cards:
· Create or Login to your account.
· Click on ‘Cards & Stationery’, then ‘5×7 Folded Greeting Cards’, then select other card style and upload photos
· Order
· Select ‘Send them Back to Me’ to avoid postage costs
· Change Quantity to total 3 cards, then ‘Add to Cart’
· {or you can order 1 each of 3 different styles!}
· When you’re in your shopping cart, click on the blue words at the top “Enter promo code”
· Enter & apply code: SUMMERCARDS

Frugal Girls list other photo deals out right now. Here’s the link: http://thefrugalgirls.com/hot-photo-deals

Restaurant Deals
Maggiano’s Little Italy now has a new option on their menu. For $12.95, you get a pasta dish to eat and another one to take home. Add a dessert for just $2 with the coupon available at the following address through 9/3/2010.
http://maggianos.fbmta.com/members/ViewMailing.aspx?MailingID=36507231545&storecode=165 You can also sign up online to receive $10 off your next meal, and discounts on your birthday, anniversary, and occasionally throughout the year. http://www.maggianos.com/

Here’s a deal at Wendy’s. Each store got 1,000 keychain cards to sell for a $1 each. Purchase the keychain and get a Junior Frosty (the small kids size) for free. On each returning visit to Wendy's present the card and you'll get a free Junior Frosty (when you purchase something). You can use it as many times as you would like through December. Limit one free Frosty per transaction.
Every day in August, from 4-10 p.m., kids eat free at IHOP. Buy an adult entrée, get a kids’ meal free.

Ongoing Deals
My friend Randi recommends the Carousel at the Santa Monica Pier. It’s $2 for adults, $1 for kids (I think) and is open everyday except Tuesdays. (310) 394-8042. Make a day of it and check out the Annenberg Community Beach House. It’s Santa Monica’s only public beach house, offering a pool and beach access. It’s normally $7 but go on a Monday (August 23 or 30) and it’s only $1 per person! Passes go on sale at 9:30 a.m., pool entry is at 10 a.m. All members of your group must be present to buy tickets. Hours vary; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Mondays. NOTE: The pool is 4' to 8' deep. Due to the depth of this pool, children under 8 years old and 4' tall must be accompanied by an adult in the water at all times. Children under 12 years must be accompanied and supervised by an adult in the pool area. Children requiring use of a diaper must wear a swim diaper in the pool. It looks like a beautiful place!

Upcoming Events
L.A. County Fair is coming Sept 4 - Oct 3, 2010. There are all kinds of deals, including the following during the opening weekend.

Opening Weekend $1 Specials – Labor Day weekend, Saturday, Sept. 4 – Monday, Sept. 6
Admission –$1, 10 a.m. – 1. p.m., regular admission rates apply after 1 p.m. Ages 5 and younger free every day. PARKING is $10 for general and $15 for preferred.

Do you have any children in kindergarten up through 8th grade? The Read to Ride Program is a special reward program for kids who read books over their summer vacations. Kids will receive 3 free carnival ride vouchers for every 2 books they read and write a book report for. Check out all the details at this link: http://www.lacountyfair.com/2010/entertainment/documents/21ReadtoRide10.pdf

September 25th is museum day! You can request a ticket for free admission for two people by going to this link. http://microsite.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/admission.html?2010

Kristin's Kickbacks List Week of 8-6

August 4-15. (Hours vary). Ventura County Fair. 10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura. www.venturacountyfair.org. Adults $10, children 6-12 $7. There are days with discount tickets! August 11, entry to the Fair is $1 'til 3PM!! Check out the website for other deal days!

August 6. Grand opening of renovated Santa Monica Place near third street. They have different activities going on to celebrate. 2-4 pm: The Art of the Beach – interactive beach-inspired art activities invite guests of all ages to create their own colorful spin-art Frisbees and note cards, as well as layered sand-art bracelets (2nd Level). Check out the website for more details. http://santamonicaplace.com/events/event.aspx?eid=16538

August 6. 6 pm. FREE concert at LACMA, no reservations required. BP Grand Entrance. Bassist Henry "The Skipper" Franklin's prolific career began with Willie Bobo and Archie Shepp, and he rose to fame working with Hugh Masakela. Franklin has recorded numerous albums as a bandleader and has also worked closely with Gene Harris and the Three Sounds, Freddie Hubbard, Bobbi Humphrey, and Hampton Hawes.

August 6. 7-9:30 p.m. Keyes Lexus of Valencia has Jazz and Blues concert series every Friday night thru Aug. 27. This week is Reno Jones. Food & Beverages for sale (No outside food or beverages; no pets allowed.) Activities for the kids. Downtown Valencia in the street on Town Center Drive at McBean Parkway in Santa Clarita. www.valenciajazzandblues.com (Thanks, Kristi!)

August 7. Home Depot's FREE Kids Workshop to make a school bus pencil organizer. The workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates' aprons, and an achievement pin.

August 7. 10 a.m. Big!World!Fun! Family Series at the Ford Theatre. This week features Alfredo Rolando Ortiz. The internationally acclaimed Latin American harpist, composer, and educator relates his adventures of migration, hardship and success: Cuban-born, he traveled to Venezuela, learning the Venezuelan and Paraguayan folk harps, and finally to Colombia, where, thanks to his music, he became a medical doctor. PRE-SHOW ACTIVITIES START @ 9AM – arrive early to make instruments – clapper sticks, tambourines, string instruments, and more – craft project led by the Autry! 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, L.A. One hour-long music, dance and theatre aimed for children ages 4 to 10 and families. Children free, adults $5. Parking $1. Reservations required. To avoid handling fees, call the box office at 323-461-3673. This is outdoors and it’s okay to bring food.

August 7. 4 p.m. FREE. Fairy Tales in the Park—“Three Little Pigs.” Rancho Simi Community Park Amphitheater, 1765 Royal Ave., Simi Valley. Bring a blanket or chair.

August 7. 6-10 p.m. Dive in Movie at Rancho Simi Community Pool in Simi Valley. Movie “Monsters vs. Aliens” starts at 8 p.m. $3 per person, bring blankets or chairs. 1765 Royal Avenue, Simi Valley.

August 7. 7-10 p.m. Warner Park: Movies on the Green. Movie begins about ½ hour after sunset. This week’s movie is Mama Mia (PG-13): Outdoor family movies are presented on Saturday evenings through August 28th and are projected on a 30’ screen with digital projection and 7.1 surround sound. 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills.

August 7. 6-8 p.m. Free weekly summer concerts at Simi Valley Town Center. This week: 80's Night - Cover2Cover. 1555 Simi Town Center Way, Simi Valley, 93065. (805) 581-1430.

August 7-8. 4-5:30 p.m. Garden Concerts for Kids at the Getty. Free admission; no reservations required. This week features Milkshake. Milkshake is a band on a mission: to create great rock music for kids. Led by alt-pop and rock veterans Lisa Mathews and Mikel Gehl, Milkshake's lively attitude and lyrically lighthearted songs have won fans of all ages and will get you dancing with their authentic rock-and-roll spirit. 1200 Getty Center Dr., L.A., 90049. (310) 440-7300. Parking is $15.

August 8. 12 noon - 4:30 pm. The Hollywood Arts Council is proud to announce their 25th Annual Children’s Festival of the Arts to be held at Paramount Pictures! This is a FREE, non-commercial event featuring live performances and workshops from near and far catering to children and their families from all over Los Angeles! Come play with Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, get your face painted, make your own puppet, and much more! Kid Friendly: Family art workshops, visual and musical performances from around the world! Food Services: Mort’s Food Cart will provide food available for purchase. Paramount Pictures: Bronson Gate Entrance 5555 Melrose Ave. , Hollywood , 90038 Cross Streets: Melrose Ave / N. Gower St. (323) 871-2787.

August 8. FREE concert at Levitt Pavilion, MacArthur Park, 2230 W. Sixth St., L.A. 213-384-5701Moona Luna plays bilingual Spanish rock. Open lawn seating. The Levitt Pavilion MacArthur Park is located in the northwest corner of the park near the intersection of West 6th Street and S. Park View Street, just west of downtown Los Angeles.

August 8. 6 p.m. FREE weekly concerts at Los Angeles County Museum of Art. These one-hour concerts are presented free to the public on Sundays in the Leo S. Bing Theater.
Pianist Petronel Malan performs Griffes: Sonata, Haydn: Sonata in A-flat major, HobVI:46, Liszt: Hungarian Rhapsody No.19.

August 8. 6 p.m.-8 p.m. FREE weekly concerts in the park. Warner Park, 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills. This week the group is the Swedish group Arrival, playing the music of ABBA. Prior to the concert at 6 PM, join us on the green for more music and a health and wellness expo beginning at 4 PM.

August 9. 10 a.m. FREE Monday Morning Concert for children at the Madrid Theatre in Canoga Park. Admission is first-come, first-served basis. I usually go around 9:30 and bring coins for parking meters. 21622 Sherman Way, Canoga Park, CA 91303 – 818-347-9938. This week’s concert is: WOOLEY & GODWIN
Chris & Tim will be playing new songs from John Mayer, Maroon 5 & Dave Matthews. They are not your typical acoustic duo that sing and play the songs you’ve heard too many times. They play the songs that bring a smile to peoples faces and get the reaction of “I love that song!”

August 9. Starts at dusk. FREE. Monday Movie Nights at Simi Valley Town Center mall in food court area, some seating, okay to bring chairs. Movie this week is The Twilight Saga New Moon (PG-13).

August 9 and August 12. 10 a.m. Free showing of Surf’s Up (PG). The Promenade at Westlake presents the Summer Film Festival! Free family movies at Mann Westlake 8 Theatres, Mondays and Thursdays. Plus, receive a KIDS EAT FREE postcard when you see a movie during the Summer Film Festival. Enjoy lunch at one of The Promenade restaurants listed below, where you will receive a free kids meal with purchase of any adult entree and beverage. 180 Promenade Way, Promenade Mall, Westlake Village, 91362. (805) 379-2299.

August 10. Free Day at Autry National Center (across from L.A. Zoo). (323) 667-2000.

August 10. 6 p.m. Free Kids’ Club at The Commons at Calabasas. 4799 Commons Way, Calabasas. Wear clothes appropriate for getting messy for this art workshop.

August 10. 10 a.m. AMC Summer Movie Camp will be offered at 10 a.m. each Tuesday morning this summer at participating theatres, from June 15 through August 10. This week the movie is How To Train Your Dragon (PG). Each ticket is $1 and all admission and concession proceeds will benefit two AMC charities, Variety – The Children’s Charity and the Will Rogers Institute. Doors will open at 9:30 a.m. Tickets for each week will be on sale approximately one week prior to the scheduled show date.

August 10-11. 10 a.m. FREE summer movies at select Regal Theatres. Selected G or PG movies start at 10:00am every Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. Tickets and seating are first-come, first-served and are limited to theatre capacity. Tickets for the 2010 Free Family Film Festival are exclusively available at select theatres’ box office on the day of the show. Charlotte's Web (G) and Imagine That (PG) are playing at the Civic Center Stadium 16 in Simi Valley. Kit Kittredge: American Girl (G) and Kung Fu Panda (PG) are playing at the Canyon Country Stadium 10 on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. Doogal (G) and Night At The Museum II (PG) are playing at the Grand Palace Stadium 6 on 4767 Commons Way in Calabasas.

August 11. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Entry to the Ventura County Fair is $1 'til 3PM!! 10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura.

August 11. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Free Kids’ Club at The Lakes at Thousand Oaks. Come enjoy the Friendly Farm Petting Zoo. 2200 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., T.O.

August 11. 7 p.m. FREE. Children’s Night at Levitt Pavilion. Choo Choo Soul. Diverse duo from Playhouse Disney combines hip-hop, dance, and beat boxing. 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena.

August 12. 6:30-7:30 p.m. FREE parent education meeting at MARS Academy, usually on the 2nd Thursdays of each month. No RSVP required, meeting starts promptly. This month’s topic is Back to School—How to help your child start this new school year with success. 17730 Magnolia Boulevard, Encino. (Thanks Nikki!)

August 12. 8 p.m. Free All-Time Favorite Movies Under The Stars! The Grove Presents Movies in The Park. This week is Twilight: New Moon (PG-13). Bring a blanket (no chairs, please) and have a magical evening at The Grove. The event opens for general grass and bleacher seating at 7:15pm. For early access, and to bypass the line, simply pre-order gourmet picnics from any of The Grove's fine restaurants or purchase gourmet picnics in The Park. Compliment your outdoor movie experience with a delicious meal. Early access begins at 6:30pm. Only The Grove food permitted in The Park, please. 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90036. PHONE 323.900.8080.

August 12. 5:30-7 p.m. Jazz at Descanso Gardens. “The Evolution of American Jazz” concert series on Thursday evenings will feature top local talent performing on the new earthen stage on Descanso’s Main Lawn. Bring a blanket to sit on and a picnic supper (normally not allowed inside the Gardens), and settle back to savor music from some of SoCal’s finest jazz artists. Concerts run from 5:30 to 7 p.m. through August 12. Concerts are free with admission to the Gardens and free for members. This week, the concert series concludes with Willie McNeil performing straight-ahead jazz with pop and rock influences.

August 12. 6-9 p.m. Thursday night summer concerts at the Autry Museum (across from L.A. Zoo). See top Latin bands in a fun, casual, energetic setting on the Autry plaza. The taco and drink bar open at 6:00 p.m., and the museum and museum store close at 8:00 p.m. Complimentary dance lessons and a separate dance floor for kids guarantee fun for all! Free for Autry members / $7 for nonmembers. This week: Orquesta Son Mayor. Voted “Best Salsa Band” by LA Weekly, Son Mayor continues August Sizzling Summer Nights with its high-energy sounds, playing a mixture of vintage Latin and contemporary Cuban styles. From humble beginnings, this musical family has made Son Mayor one of L.A.’s most sought-after salsa bands. Son Mayor has opened for and played alongside such greats as Chucho Valdez at the Hollywood Bowl, Tito Puente, Celia Cruz, Los Van Van, Sonora Ponceña, Oscar D’León, El Canario, Ozomatli, and Los Muñequitos de Matanzas.

Ongoing Deals

There are a lot of back to school sales for school supplies right now. Check out this link Janet sent me for a great chart of sales at various stores. http://www.saveathomemommy.com/2010/08/school-supply-deals-81-87/

Albertsons has coupons available in the store that allow you to pair it with a manufacturer’s coupon up to $1 and double it! So a $1 off cereal becomes $2 off! The double coupons are good through August 10th.

Picaboo is offering a FREE classic photo book during August. Just design your own photo book at Picaboo. Get it FREE with code FREEBK until 8/31. To design your book you will need to download Picaboo’s free software Make sure to design a large Classic, Classic Leather, or Classic Custom book by August 31. The total cost of your book (up to 20 pages) will be deducted from your order total. This is a $39 value and you just pay the shipping of $8.99 This offer is available to new Picaboo members only. The website is www.picaboo.com

Here’s another photo deal. Through 9/1, you can order 3 Free 5×7 Folded Photo Cards from Shutterfly (just pay shipping, just over $1). www.shutterfly.com I took advantage of this deal earlier in the year and made great Father’s Day cards for my hubby and dad. At checkout, enter code: SUMMERCARDS. Here’s how to order the cards:
· Create or Login to your account.
· Click on ‘Cards & Stationery’, then ‘5×7 Folded Greeting Cards’, then select other card style and upload photos
· Order
· Select ‘Send them Back to Me’ to avoid postage costs
· Change Quantity to total 3 cards, then ‘Add to Cart’
· {or you can order 1 each of 3 different styles!}
· When you’re in your shopping cart, click on the blue words at the top “Enter promo code”
· Enter & apply code: SUMMERCARDS

Maggiano’s Little Italy now has a new option on their menu. For $12.95, you get a pasta dish to eat and another one to take home. Add a dessert for just $2 with the coupon available at the following address through 9/3/2010
http://maggianos.fbmta.com/members/ViewMailing.aspx?MailingID=36507231545&storecode=165
You can also sign up online to receive $10 off your next meal, and discounts on your birthday, anniversary, and occasionally throughout the year. http://www.maggianos.com/

Here’s a deal at Wendy’s. Each store got 1,000 keychain cards to sell for a $1 each. Purchase the keychain and get a Junior Frosty (the small kids size) for free. On each returning visit to Wendy's present the card and you'll get a free Junior Frosty (when you purchase something). You can use it as many times as you would like through December. Limit one free Frosty per transaction.

Every day in August, from 4-10 p.m., kids eat free at IHOP. Buy an adult entrée, get a kids’ meal free.

September 25th is museum day! You can request a ticket for free admission for two people by going to this link. http://microsite.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/admission.html?2010

Zazzle is offering 100 FREE business/contact/mommy cards (whatever you want to use them for) for FREE. This is a $16.95 value and the discount is applied automatically at checkout when you complete your purchase. Choose economical shipping to pay only $3.99 for the order. www.zazzle.com Thanks to commonsensewithmoney.com!

Upcoming Events

August 13. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. I’ve heard great things about Pretend City Children’s Museum in Irvine (Thanks, Linda!) I found a coupon for 2 for the price of 1 for Pretend City on the second Friday of the month (Way to Play Days). 29 Hubble, Irvine, CA 92618. (949) 428-3900 Here's the link for the coupon. http://www.pretendcity.org/IMAGES/2-For-1-Promo.jpg

August 14 & 15, and 21 & 22. 4–5:30 p.m. Garden Concerts for Kids at the Getty, Saturdays and Sundays. Free admission; no reservations required. The summertime tradition returns with another great lineup of kids' music! Don't miss this free concert series in the Central Garden for kids and their families, featuring some of the best children's musicians from across the nation. 1200 Getty Center Dr., L.A., 90049.

August 15. 12-1 p.m. FREE Kids Cupcake Decorating Party at Whole Foods in Tarzana. They get to decorate and then eat their cupcake! To RSVP, please email SPTRZ-marketing@wholefoods.com. 18700 Ventura Blvd, Tarzana, 91356. 818-578-7840.

Kristin's Kickbacks List Week of 7-30

July 30. Target now has 75% off on certain toys and games!! They are some amazing deals, like a version of Monopoly for $3.48 and hot wheels sets for less than $5! Make sure you look carefully through the toy section. At the Target I went to there were clearance items throughout. I shop early for Christmas and birthday gifts.

July 30-31. Old Navy is having a $2.00 Cami Sale! (in store only).You can either take along the Old Navy coupon found at this link http://oldnavy.gap.com/Asset_Archive/ONWeb/content/0002/028/860/$2camis_coupon.jpg or just say “Cami 4 Me” to the store associate when you’re checking out.

July 30. 6:00 pm. FREE concert at LACMA. BP Grand Entrance.
Vocalist Sara Gazarek has emerged as a strikingly original artist, with two critically acclaimed recordings produced by John Clayton. The 25-year-old Gazarek seamlessly combines the intimacy of singer/songwriter stylings with the musical and improvisational elements of jazz.

July 30. 7-9:30 p.m. Keyes Lexus of Valencia has Jazz and Blues concert series every Friday night thru Aug. 27. This week is Lightnin’ Willie & the Poorboys. Food & Beverages for sale (No outside food or beverages; no pets allowed.) Activities for the kids. Downtown Valencia in the street on Town Center Drive at McBean Parkway in Santa Clarita. www.valenciajazzandblues.com (Thanks, Kristi!)

July 31. 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. DLM Off-Price Specialists, is opening their doors to the public. Expect prices to be 80-90% off retail and look for name brands like DKNY, Ellie Tahari, and more. DLM is located at 2343 Saybrook Ave. in Commerce, CA. (323) 724-5474. Thanks to bargainbabe.com for this deal!

July 31. 10 a.m. Big!World!Fun! Family Series at the Ford Theatre. Discover Afro-Brazilian culture from the state of Bahia in Brazil. Uptempo, passionate dance and myths of gods and goddesses blend seamlessly with Portuguese and African vocals and the rhythms of drums and percussion. PRE-SHOW ACTIVITIES START @ 9AM – arrive early to hear a music performance by Renee and Jeremy! 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, L.A. One hour-long music, dance and theatre aimed for children ages 4 to 10 and families. Children free, adults $5. Parking $1. Reservations required. To avoid handling fees, call the box office at 323-461-3673. This is outdoors and it’s okay to bring food.

July 31. 7-10 p.m. Warner Park: Movies on the Green. Movie begins about ½ hour after sunset. This week’s movie is: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (PG). Outdoor family movies are presented on Saturday evenings through August 28th and are projected on a 30’ screen with digital projection and 7.1 surround sound. 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills.

July 31. 6-8 p.m. Free weekly summer concerts at Simi Valley Town Center. This week: Polynesian Night - Hawaiian Experience. 1555 Simi Town Center Way, Simi Valley, 93065. (805) 581-1430.

August 1. 9 a.m. Get tickets for Huntington Gardens free day in September. Call 800-838-3006 or go online at www.huntington.org

August 1. Free Entrée for anyone named Dave at Famous Dave’s. And that means a great deal for you - up to $15 - for anyone named Dave (David or Davy, too). And half off your entrée if your middle name's Dave - up to $7.50. That goes for to-go orders too. Hey Daves, we're talkin' serious bucks here so don't forget to present your I.D.**
** Sorry, last names don't count. Dave, You must present a valid picture I.D. Offer good at participating restaurants only. Here’s the link to see if a restaurant near you is participating. http://www.davesday2010.com/ (The Simi Valley location at 1229 Simi Towne Center Way is listed as participating).

August 1. 6 p.m. FREE weekly concerts at Los Angeles County Museum of Art. These one-hour concerts are presented free to the public on Sundays in the Leo S. Bing Theater. This week: Program to be announced.

August 1. 6 p.m.-8 p.m. FREE weekly concerts in the park. Warner Park, 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills. This week the group is One of the most critically acclaimed musicians, singer/songwriter/guitarist Dave Mason is one of classic rock’s most underrated artists. Caught up in the creative music and social vortex that was the English rock scene of the ‘60s, he co-founded the seminal jazz/jam rock group Traffic in 1967. Later, there was a successful solo career through the ’70s and early ’80s that also saw him playing with other artists both in the studio and on stage. In 2004, Dave Mason was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Traffic with bandmates Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, and (posthumously) Chris Wood. It was an overdue honor. Mason recently co-founded RKS Guitars and continues to perform regularly around the country.

August 2. 10 a.m. FREE Monday Morning Concert for children at the Madrid Theatre in Canoga Park. Admission is first-come, first-served basis. I usually go around 9:30 and bring coins for parking meters. 21622 Sherman Way, Canoga Park, CA 91303 – 818-347-9938. This week’s concert is:
ALEX NESTER
This singer/songwriter has been singing professionally since she was nine! Her resume already includes 12 albums, countless jingles, and over 25 theatrical productions, as well as working with established musicians such as The Four Tops, The Fifth Dimension, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, Desi Arnaz, Jr.

August 2. 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. FREE McDonald's 7-ounce iced mocha or an 8-ounce hot mocha at participating stores. No purchase is necessary. Last Monday for this deal!

August 2. 7 p.m. FREE interactive J.A.M. Sessions at the Ford Theatre.
The authenticity of Hawaiian culture and dance is taught by Kumu Hula Keali’I Ceballos of L.A.- based, award-winning Hula Halau Keali’I O Nalani. This is your chance to let your inner Aloha flow! John Anson Ford Theatre, 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, L.A. Reservations recommended. Call the box office at 323-461-3673 to avoid handling fees. Parking is $1.

August 2. Starts at dusk. FREE. Monday Movie Nights at Simi Valley Town Center mall in food court area, some seating, okay to bring chairs. Movie this week is Alvin and the Chipmunks 2: The Squeakquel (PG).

August 2 and August 5. 10 a.m. Free showing of Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (PG). The Promenade at Westlake presents the Summer Film Festival! Free family movies at Mann Westlake 8 Theatres, Mondays and Thursdays. Plus, receive a KIDS EAT FREE postcard when you see a movie during the Summer Film Festival. Enjoy lunch at one of The Promenade restaurants listed below, where you will receive a free kids meal with purchase of any adult entree and beverage. 180 Promenade Way, Promenade Mall, Westlake Village, 91362. (805) 379-2299.

August 3. 5 p.m. Join in the FREE LEGO® Store Monthly Mini Model Build!
Visit your local LEGO Store on the first Tuesday of every month and you can learn how to build a cool mini model, and take it home – for free! Quantities are limited and offer is good while supplies last only. This week build a LEGO Seagull. One free per child. Event is open to children ages 6 to 14 only. See store for more details. Glendale Galleria, Phone: (818) 549-0733

August 3. Free day for La Brea Tar Pits and the Natural History Museum.

August 3. Free day for Kidspace Museum from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. 480 N.Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91103. (626) 449-9144 www.kidspacemuseum.org.

August 3. 10 a.m. AMC Summer Movie Camp will be offered at 10 a.m. each Tuesday morning this summer at participating theatres, from June 15 through August 10. This week the movie is The Spiderwick Chronicles (PG). Each ticket is $1 and all admission and concession proceeds will benefit two AMC charities, Variety – The Children’s Charity and the Will Rogers Institute. Doors will open at 9:30 a.m. Tickets for each week will be on sale approximately one week prior to the scheduled show date.

August 3-4. 10 a.m. FREE summer movies at select Regal Theatres. Selected G or PG movies start at 10:00am every Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. Tickets and seating are first-come, first-served and are limited to theatre capacity. Tickets for the 2010 Free Family Film Festival are exclusively available at select theatres’ box office on the day of the show. Hotel For Dogs (PG) and Planet 51 (PG) are playing at the Civic Center Stadium 16 in Simi Valley. Doogal (G) and Night At The Museum II (PG) are playing at the Canyon Country Stadium 10 on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. Curious George (G) and Monsters Vs. Aliens (PG) are playing at the Grand Palace Stadium 6 on 4767 Commons Way in Calabasas.

August 4. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Free Kids’ Club at The Lakes at Thousand Oaks. A balloon sculpture wizard will also make some cool music. 2200 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., T.O.

August 4. 7 p.m. FREE. Children’s Night at Levitt Pavilion. 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena. Kiddle Karoo Goes Green : A musical experience about recycling and keeping the planet clean.

August 4-15. (Hours vary). Ventura County Fair. 10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura. www.venturacountyfair.org. Adults $10, children 6-12 $7. There are days with discount tickets! August 4 and August 11, entry to the Fair is $1 'til 3PM!! Check out the website for other deal days!

August 5. 8 p.m. Free All-Time Favorite Movies Under The Stars! The Grove Presents Movies in The Park. This week is Twilight (PG-13). Bring a blanket (no chairs, please) and have a magical evening at The Grove. The event opens for general grass and bleacher seating at 7:15pm. For early access, and to bypass the line, simply pre-order gourmet picnics from any of The Grove's fine restaurants or purchase gourmet picnics in The Park. Compliment your outdoor movie experience with a delicious meal. Early access begins at 6:30pm. Only The Grove food permitted in The Park, please. 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90036. PHONE 323.900.8080.

August 5. 5:30-7 p.m. Jazz at Descanso Gardens. “The Evolution of American Jazz” concert series on Thursday evenings will feature top local talent performing on the new earthen stage on Descanso’s Main Lawn. Bring a blanket to sit on and a picnic supper (normally not allowed inside the Gardens), and settle back to savor music from some of SoCal’s finest jazz artists. Concerts run from 5:30 to 7 p.m. through August 12. Concerts are free with admission to the Gardens and free for members. This week, Elliott Caine presents East Coast, be-bop inspired jazz.

August 5. 6-9 p.m. Thursday night summer concerts at the Autry Museum (across from L.A. Zoo). See top Latin bands in a fun, casual, energetic setting on the Autry plaza. The taco and drink bar open at 6:00 p.m., and the museum and museum store close at 8:00 p.m. Complimentary dance lessons and a separate dance floor for kids guarantee fun for all! Free for Autry members / $7 for nonmembers. This week: Conjunto Costazul, founded by Newyorican brothers Freddie and Johnny Crespo, is considered one of the finest salsa orchestras in Southern California. The Crespo brothers are singers and percussionists who during the proliferation of salsa in the 70s developed their musical talents in New York's Spanish Harlem, and performed with renowned salsa orchestras of the time. In 2010, Conjunto Costazul celebrates its 21st anniversary, moving forward with its unique, swinging sound and continuing to delight new generations of salseros.

Ongoing Deals

Here’s a deal at Wendy’s. Each store got 1,000 keychain cards to sell for a $1 each. Purchase the keychain and get a Junior Frosty (the small kids size) for free. On each returning visit to Wendy's present the card and you'll get a free Junior Frosty (when you purchase something). You can use it as many times as you would like through December. Limit one free Frosty per transaction.

September 25th is museum day! You can request a ticket for free admission for two people by going to this link. http://microsite.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/admission.html?2010
Goldstar.com has great deals on events. It’s free to join. Right now they have tickets for Walking with Dinosaurs at the STAPLES Center for 29.50 a ticket (plus $8.50 fees per ticket) instead of $59. Here’s a link to this deal http://www.goldstar.com/e/37836

Upcoming Events

Garden Concerts for Kids at the Getty, Saturdays and Sundays, August 7 & 8, 14 & 15, and 21 & 22, 2010. 4:00–5:30 p.m. Free admission; no reservations required. The summertime tradition returns with another great lineup of kids' music! Don't miss this free concert series in the Central Garden for kids and their families, featuring some of the best children's musicians from across the nation. 1200 Getty Center Dr., L.A., 90049.
(310) 440-7300.

August 8. 12 noon - 4:30 pm. The Hollywood Arts Council is proud to announce their 25th Annual Children’s Festival of the Arts to be held at Paramount Pictures! This is a FREE, non-commercial event featuring live performances and workshops from near and far catering to children and their families from all over Los Angeles! Come play with Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, get your face painted, make your own puppet, and much more! Kid Friendly: Family art workshops, visual and musical performances from around the world! Food Services: Mort’s Food Cart will provide food available for purchase. Paramount Pictures : Bronson Gate Entrance 5555 Melrose Ave. , Hollywood , 90038 Cross Streets: Melrose Ave / N. Gower St. (323) 871-2787

Kristin's Kickbacks List Week of 7-23

July 23. This Friday, get Black Friday-like deals on hundreds of their most popular items at www.target.com. Only available online.

July 23. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free admission to Pacific Asia Museum in Pasadena. (Free 4th Friday of the month). 46 North Los Robles Avenue, Pasadena, 91101.

July 23. 7-9:30 p.m. Keyes Lexus of Valencia has Jazz and Blues concert series every Friday night thru Aug. 27. This week is Jim Gibson. Food & Beverages for sale (No outside food or beverages; no pets allowed.) Activities for the kids. Downtown Valencia in the street on Town Center Drive at McBean Parkway in Santa Clarita. www.valenciajazzandblues.com (Thanks, Kristi!)

July 23-25. Old Navy. High school and college students and teachers receive 25% off their entire purchase, this Friday through Sunday only. Students—show your college or high school ID to receive your discount. Teachers, show your school ID or pay stub to receive yours. (Looks like Old Navy is going to do a uniform sale next week, for the younger kids).

July 23-25. Kids eat FREE at participating IKEA stores. Choose any 3 kids sized items, value $2.49. No adult purchase necessary.

July 24. 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Multiple family garage sale in Simi Valley. Olympic St. Neighborhood Garage Sales, near the corner of Royal and Sequoia. Clothes for all ages/gender, toys, furniture, books, collectibles, video games, baby stuff, scrap booking supplies, and much, much more!

July 24. 10 a.m. FREE Build and Grow Clinic at Lowes. Bring your child to Lowe's and they can build a UFO! The kids get goggles and an apron and a kit to build an item. They use hammers their size and get a patch afterward for completing the project. You can register online.

July 24. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. National Day of the Cowboy and Cowgirl at the Autry National Center (across from L.A. Zoo). Free with museum admission: Adults: $9, children (3-12): $3.

July 24. 7-10 p.m. Warner Park: Movies on the Green. Movie begins about ½ hour after sunset. This week’s movie is: Nanny McPhee (PG). Outdoor family movies are presented on Saturday evenings through August 28th and are projected on a 30’ screen with digital projection and 7.1 surround sound. 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills.

July 24. 6-10 p.m. Dive in Movie at Rancho Simi Community Pool in Simi Valley. Movie “Toy Story” starts at 8 p.m. $3 per person, bring blankets or chairs. 1765 Royal Avenue, Simi Valley.

July 25. 6 p.m. FREE weekly concerts at Los Angeles County Museum of Art. These one-hour concerts are presented free to the public on Sundays in the Leo S. Bing Theater. This week: “Homage to Schumann.” iPalpiti Artists Perform: Fantasiestücke Op. 88 Romanze & Duet, Ahnung (new discovery from Kinderszenen) – US Premiere, Piano Quartet in E-flat Major, Op. 47 – Andante cantabile, Piano Quintet in E-flat Major, Op. 44.

July 25. 6 p.m.-8 p.m. FREE weekly concerts in the park. Warner Park, 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills. This week the group is the Los Angeles Pierce Symphonic Winds. In this concert they will present many patriotic and memorable pieces saluting the many men and women who serve our country in the military both here and abroad.

July 26. 10 a.m. FREE Monday Morning Concert for children at the Madrid Theatre in Canoga Park. Admission is first-come, first-served basis. I usually go around 9:30 and bring coins for parking meters. 21622 Sherman Way, Canoga Park, CA 91303 – 818-347-9938. This week’s concert is: L.A. PIERCE SYMPHONIC WINDS
The Los Angeles Pierce Symphonic Winds are among the growing number of nationally recognized and critically acclaimed community bands in the United States. Since their founding in 1983, the L.A. Winds have become a leading force in southern California's cultural community. As a result of their annual tours throughout the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Europe, audiences all over the globe have delighted in the L.A. Winds' eclectic programs.

July 26. 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. FREE McDonald's 7-ounce iced mocha or an 8-ounce hot mocha. No purchase is necessary. Free every Monday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. until August 3 at participating stores.

July 26. Starts at dusk. FREE. Monday Movie Nights at Simi Valley Town Center mall in food court area, some seating, okay to bring chairs. Movie this week is “G.I. Joe: The Rise of the Cobra.”

July 26 and July 29. 10 a.m. Free showing of The Cat in the Hat (PG). The Promenade at Westlake presents the Summer Film Festival! Free family movies at Mann Westlake 8 Theatres, Mondays and Thursdays. Plus, receive a KIDS EAT FREE postcard when you see a movie during the Summer Film Festival. Enjoy lunch at one of The Promenade restaurants listed below, where you will receive a free kids meal with purchase of any adult entree and beverage. 180 Promenade Way, Promenade Mall, Westlake Village, 91362. (805) 379-2299.

July 27. 10 a.m. AMC Summer Movie Camp will be offered at 10 a.m. each Tuesday morning this summer at participating theatres, from June 15 through August 10. This week the movie is Kung Fu Panda (PG). Each ticket is $1 and all admission and concession proceeds will benefit two AMC charities, Variety – The Children’s Charity and the Will Rogers Institute. Doors will open at 9:30 a.m. Tickets for each week will be on sale approximately one week prior to the scheduled show date.

July 27. Enjoy Shakespeare's beloved comedy "A Midsummer Night's Dream" under the stars at Descanso Gardens in the Under the Oaks Theater. Seating is also available on the Main Lawn. Bring picnics and blankets (not normally allowed in the Gardens) and enjoy the Bard’s work in the twilight hours. Ages 12 and older. Free with admission. $8 adults, $3 children 5-12. (If you’re interested, call for the time. I saw conflicting times for this event). 818-949-4200.

July 27-28. 10 a.m. FREE summer movies at select Regal Theatres. Selected G or PG movies start at 10:00am every Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. Tickets and seating are first-come, first-served and are limited to theatre capacity. Tickets for the 2010 Free Family Film Festival are exclusively available at select theatres’ box office on the day of the show. Curious George (G) and Monsters Vs. Aliens (PG) are both playing at the Civic Center Stadium 16 in Simi Valley and the Canyon Country Stadium 10 on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. Paul Blart: Mall Cop (PG) and Surf's Up (PG) are playing at the Grand Palace Stadium 6 on 4767 Commons Way in Calabasas.

July 28. 2-2:45 p.m. and 3-3:45 p.m. FREE. Blue Submarine presents Lifestyles of the Slimy & Squishy at the South Pasadena Library.
2 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. Preschoolers through 1st graders, 3 p.m. – 3:45 p.m. 2nd graders and older. To teach children about ocean ecology, the Little Blue Submarine encourages children to experience marine life up-close and personal with live tidepool animals, specimens, and colorful puppets. Sea stars, whales, sharks, and octopus are just some of the animals featured. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

July 28. 11 a.m. FREE. Kids Club at the Sherman Oaks Galleria. Dance to The Happy Crowd’s cheery tunes. 15301 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks.

July 28. 4-6 p.m. FREE. Milk the Moment Tour at The Americana at Brand. Kids can have a “milk mustache” photo taken with Handy Manny and learn about milk facts, activities and contests. www.whymilk.com 889 Americana Way, Suite 330, Glendale.

July 28. 7 p.m. FREE. Children’s Night at Levitt Pavilion. Musician Charlie Hope. Melodic, interactive and sing-able - you’ll find an opportunity to stomp your feet. 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena.

July 29. 8 p.m. Free All-Time Favorite Movies Under The Stars! The Grove Presents Movies in The Park. This week is Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (PG-13). Bring a blanket (no chairs, please) and have a magical evening at The Grove. The event opens for general grass and bleacher seating at 7:15pm. For early access, and to bypass the line, simply pre-order gourmet picnics from any of The Grove's fine restaurants or purchase gourmet picnics in The Park. Compliment your outdoor movie experience with a delicious meal. Early access begins at 6:30pm. Only The Grove food permitted in The Park, please. 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90036. PHONE 323.900.8080.

July 29. 5:30-7 p.m. Jazz at Descanso Gardens. “The Evolution of American Jazz” concert series on Thursday evenings will feature top local talent performing on the new earthen stage on Descanso’s Main Lawn. Bring a blanket to sit on and a picnic supper (normally not allowed inside the Gardens), and settle back to savor music from some of SoCal’s finest jazz artists. Concerts run from 5:30 to 7 p.m. through August 12. Concerts are free with admission to the Gardens and free for members. This week, Kristin Korb plays “California cool” jazz.

July 29. 6-9 p.m. Thursday night summer concerts at the Autry Museum (across from L.A. Zoo. See top Latin bands in a fun, casual, energetic setting on the Autry plaza. The taco and drink bar open at 6:00 p.m., and the museum and museum store close at 8:00 p.m. Complimentary dance lessons and a separate dance floor for kids guarantee fun for all! Free for Autry members / $7 for nonmembers. This week enjoy Los Compadres. The group is made up of eight individuals with the same goal: to have fun playing music. Formed in 2007 by a collection of long-time friends and colleagues, Los Compadres brings with them a classic sound with a new approach. Mixing original arrangements with some old-school classics, Los Compadres is guaranteed to make you dance all night long.

Ongoing Deals

Enter to win a coupon for a free M&M’s! The game doesn’t tell you if you won or not so make sure to play daily to increase your chances. Here’s the link: http://www.mms.com/us/couponsweepstakes/

Here’s a great site to find where kids eat free. Very easy to use and nice layout. http://www.kidseatfor.com/

Many friends have recently become interested in the gourmet food trucks that offer good prices on great food. Here's the site where you can track all the latest tweets in one place and see where you'd like to go next to sample some outrageously good food. (Thanks to my awesome husband for this kickback!) www.findlafoodtrucks.com

Vistaprint has an offer for 250 free business cards when you pay $5.67 for shipping. That ends up costing 2-cents a card. A friend of mine made some to hand out to new moms she met to arrange play dates. Easier than writing out your contact information every time! You can choose from 45 designs and enter your own text. Offer expires Sunday, July 25, 2010. www.Vistaprint.com