Kristin's Kickbacks List Week of 8-26

Activities

August 26. 7-9:30 p.m. Keyes Lexus of Valencia has free Jazz and Blues concert series every Friday night thru Aug. 27. This week: Tom Nolan. 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 26. 6 p.m. Free weekly jazz concerts at LACMA. This week: The Ron McCurdy Collective. BP Grand Entrance. No reservations needed.

August 27. 3 p.m. & 5 p.m. Sister Act 2: The Musical. Performance at Hope Chapel of the Valley, 7930 Mason Ave., Winnetka. Tickets are on sale now for $10 (adults) and $5 (children under 12). You can purchase them on line at www.cpacstudio.com. My friend Randi and her daughter are part of the production.

August 27. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Star Wars Day at the L.A. Zoo. Meet Star Wars characters and learn about creatures from other galaxies as well as our own. Regular admission prices. 5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027. http://lazoo.org

August 27. 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Back to School Resource Fair. South Valley Family Source, 6931 Van Nuys Blvd., Van Nuys. Free haircuts provided by the Van Nuys Academy of Barbering Arts, fitness activities, face painting and family activities, free school supplies (while supplies last).

August 27. 10 a.m. Big!World!Fun! Family Series: Lisa Haley & the Zydekats. Reservations required. Tickets: $5 adults, children free. Parking $1. www.fordtheatres.org Ford Amphitheatre, 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, Hollywood.

August 27. 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Latin Sounds in Hancock Park. (Free event every Saturday 5 pm–7 pm, May through September). This week: Justo Almario Afro-Colombian Ensemble in Hancock Park north of the museum.

August 21. 4 p.m. Free event at Levitt Pavilion. Levitt Pavilion, MacArthur Park, W. 6^th St. and S. Park View St., L.A. www.levittla.org This week: Youth Talent Night.

August 28. 6 p.m. FREE weekly concerts at LACMA. (Los Angles County Museum of Art). This week: Daniel Rothmuller (cello) and Bernadene Blaha (piano)

These one-hour concerts are presented free to the public on Sundays in the Leo S. Bing Theater. If you don’t make it there, you can also listen online for free at: http://www.lacma.org/programs/SundaysLive.aspx#audio

August 28. 6 p.m. FREE weekly concerts in the park. Warner Park, 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills. This week: Brass Transit, a Chicago Tribute from Toronto, Canada.

August 30. The Regency Valley Plaza 6 in North Hollywood offers movies for $1.50 all day on Tuesdays! $3 any other day. 6355 Bellingham Ave. North Hollywood, CA 91606. (818) 760-8400. Cash only, no outside food or drinks (they actually searched my purse!). http://www.regencymovies.com/main.php?theaterId=30

September 1. 9 a.m. Get tickets for October free day for Huntington Gardens. Call 800-838-3006 or get tickets online at http://www.huntington.org/default.aspx.

September 1. 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 bar opens 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! Adults: $10 / Students and Seniors: $6 / Children (3–12): $4 / Children under 3: Free. This week: Conjunto Costazul. Conjunto Costazul is considered one of the finest salsa orchestras in Southern California.

Ongoing Events

On Wednesday and Friday nights this summer, Chatsworth St. in Granada Hills has become host to more than 25 gourmet food trucks who setup shop on the boulevard selling their culinary creations. Chatsworth St @ White Oak Ave. every Wednesday & Friday @ 5pm! http://www.granadahillsfoodtrucks.com/, (Thanks to Kristin S. for this kickback!)

Upcoming Events

September 24. Free Museum Day is coming on Sept. 24 and you can get 2 Free Tickets to the participating museum of your choice! Zimmer Children’s Museum is one of the featured museums. Looks like a neat place! http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/ticket/

Kristin's Kickbacks List Week of 8-19

Activities

August 19. 7-9:30 p.m. Keyes Lexus of Valencia has free Jazz and Blues concert series every Friday night thru Aug. 27. This week: Michael John & the Bottom Line. 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 19. 6 p.m. Free weekly jazz concerts at LACMA. This week: Cross Hart Jazz Experience. BP Grand Entrance. No reservations needed.

August 20. 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Back to School Resource Fair. Canoga Park Family Source, 21400 Saticoy Street, Canoga Park. Free haircuts provided by the Van Nuys Academy of Barbering Arts, fitness activities, face painting and family activities, free school supplies (while supplies last).

August 20.10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Free YOUth Sports Festival at Central Park Fields 5 & 6 in Santa Clarita. This free event is divided into activity zones which present 20 distinct recreational games and activities that include: Tennis, Soccer, Golf, Frisbee Golf, Football, Hockey, Volleyball, Baseball, Track, Rock Climbing, Aquatic, and other fun experiences. All activity areas are designed to engage and encourage young people to experiment with participation in each sports activity. Food is available for purchase. 27150 Bouquet Canyon Rd., Santa Clarita CA 91350.

August 20. 10 a.m. Big!World!Fun! Family Series: Street Beat. This group is an “urbanized journey through percussion.” Two drummers and two street dancers make household items -- auto parts, water drums, trash cans, paint buckets -- into instruments, fusing original rhythms with hip hop moves. Reservations required. Tickets: $5 adults, children free. Parking $1. www.fordtheatres.org Ford Amphitheatre, 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, Hollywood.

August 20. 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Latin Sounds in Hancock Park. (Free event every Saturday 5 pm–7 pm, May through September). This week: Lucky 7 in Hancock Park north of the museum.

August 20-21. 4-5:30 p.m. Gardens Concerts for Kids: Singer-guitarist Frances England at the Getty Museum. She sings about bicycles, ladybugs, and Jacques Cousteau on her brand new Parent's Choice Gold Award-winning album, Mind Of My Own. With warm, indie-folk melodies and alt-rock rhythms, England's incredibly creative and slightly off-beat take on family life has inspired a world of fans since her 2007 breakout album, Fascinating Creatures.at the Getty Museum. Free admission, $15 parking. 310-440-7300. 1200 Getty Center Dr., L.A.

August 21. 4 p.m. Free event at Levitt Pavilion. Levitt Pavilion, MacArthur Park, W. 6^th St. and S. Park View St., L.A. www.levittla.org This week: Kiddle Karoo's Barnyard Bash.

August 21. 6 p.m. FREE weekly concerts at LACMA. (Los Angles County Museum of Art). This week: Capitol Ensemble. These one-hour concerts are presented free to the public on Sundays in the Leo S. Bing Theater. If you don’t make it there, you can also listen online for free at: http://www.lacma.org/programs/SundaysLive.aspx#audio

August 21. 6 p.m. FREE weekly concerts in the park. Warner Park, 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills. This week: Don’t Stop Believin’ (a JOURNEY Tribute).

August 23. 1:30-3 p.m. Afternoon science club on Tuesdays at Stough Canyon Nature Center in Burbank. $2/child, ages 8-12. (They let me bring my 5 year old, I just stayed with him). 2300 Walnut Avenue, Burbank. (Mapquest: Use 1500 Walnut Ave., 91501).

August 23. The Regency Valley Plaza 6 in North Hollywood offers movies for $1.50 all day on Tuesdays! $3 any other day. 6355 Bellingham Ave. North Hollywood, CA 91606. (818) 760-8400. Cash only, no outside food or drinks (they actually searched my purse!). http://www.regencymovies.com/main.php?theaterId=30

August 24. 7 p.m. Free children’s evening at Levitt Pavilion. This week: Lazare Houetin's Night in Africa. 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena. www.levittpavilionpasadena.org

August 25. 5:30 p.m. Music on the Main jazz series at Descanso Gardens.This week: Denise Donatelli, 2010 Grammy® nominee for Best Jazz Vocal Album. Bring a picnic (usually not allowed in the Gardens.) Concert included with Gardens admission: $8 adults, $6 seniors/students, $3 children 5-12, free for children 4 and younger. No reciprocal gardens admissions. Free parking. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011. (818) 949-4200.

August 25. 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 bar opens 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! Adults: $10 / Students and Seniors: $6 / Children (3–12): $4 / Children under 3: Free. Purchase membership on-site and enjoy all nine Sizzling Summer Nights for free. This week: Oscar Hernández and the L.A. Salsa All-Stars.

Ongoing Events

Redbox is currently giving away FREE DVD rental codes on Facebook! These codes are unique and are to encourage your family to participate in America’s Movie Night on August 25!

On Wednesday and Friday nights this summer, Chatsworth St. in Granada Hills has become host to more than 25 gourmet food trucks who setup shop on the boulevard selling their culinary creations. Chatsworth St @ White Oak Ave. every Wednesday & Friday @ 5pm! http://www.granadahillsfoodtrucks.com/, (Thanks to Kristin S. for this kicback!)

Upcoming Events

August 27. 3 p.m. & 5 p.m. Sister Act 2: The Musical. Performance at Hope Chapel of the Valley, 7930 Mason Ave., Winnetka. Tickets are on sale now for $10 (adults) and $5 (children under 12). You can purchase them on line at www.cpacstudio.com. My friend Randi and her daughter are part of the production.

August 27. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Star Wars Day at the L.A. Zoo. Meet Star Wars characters and learn about creatures from other galaxies as well as our own. Regular admission prices. 5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027. http://lazoo.org

August 27. 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Back to School Resource Fair. South Valley Family Source, 6931 Van Nuys Blvd., Van Nuys. Free haircuts provided by the Van Nuys Academy of Barbering Arts, fitness activities, face painting and family activities, free school supplies (while supplies last).

September 24. Free Museum Day is coming on Sept. 24 and you can get 2 Free Tickets to the participating museum of your choice! Zimmer Children’s Museum is one of the featured museums. Looks like a neat place! http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/ticket/

Kristin's Kickbacks List Week of 8-12

Activities

August 12. 7-9:30 p.m. Keyes Lexus of Valencia has free Jazz and Blues concert series every Friday night thru Aug. 27. This week: 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 12. 6 p.m. Free weekly jazz concerts at LACMA. This week: The Tall & Small Band Featuring Pete Christlieb and Linda Small. BP Grand Entrance. No reservations needed.

August 12-14. Fri. 5-11 p.m., Sat. noon-11:30 p.m., Sun. noon-10:30 p.m. $2 admission. Sunland-Tujunga Watermelon Festival. There will be watermelon eating, seed spitting contests, carnival rides, and arcade games. Sunland Park Rec. Center, 8651 Foothill Blvd., Sunland. www.lionswatermelonfestival.com

August 13. 10 a.m. Big!World!Fun! Family Series: Grandeza Mexicana Folk Ballet Company. Reservations required. Tickets: $5 adults, children free. www.fordtheatres.org Ford Amphitheatre, 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, Hollywood.

August 13. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Great Sand Sculpture Contest. Free to observe. www.lbsandcastle.com 1 Granada Ave., Long Beach.

August 13-14. 4-5:30 p.m. Gardens Concerts for Kids: Brady Rymer at the Getty Museum. Free admission, $15 parking. 310-440-7300. 1200 Getty Center Dr., L.A.

August 14. Noon-4 p.m. Children’s Festival of the Arts. The Hollywood Arts Council hosts this free event filled with kid-friendly activities, from art and crafts to performances. www.hollywoodartscouncil.org Paramount Studios, 5555 Melrose Ave., L.A.

August 13. 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Latin Sounds in Hancock Park. (Free event every Saturday 5 pm–7 pm, May through September). This week: Rogelio Mitchell

in Hancock Park north of the museum.

August 14. 4 p.m. Free event at Levitt Pavilion. Levitt Pavilion, MacArthur Park, W. 6^th St. and S. Park View St., L.A. www.levittla.org This week: Bob Baker Marionettes.

August 14. 6 p.m. FREE weekly concerts at LACMA. (Los Angles County Museum of Art). This week: The Lyris String Quartet. These one-hour concerts are presented free to the public on Sundays in the Leo S. Bing Theater. If you don’t make it there, you can also listen online for free at: http://www.lacma.org/programs/SundaysLive.aspx#audio

August 14. 4 p.m. FREE weekly concerts in the park. Warner Park, 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills. This week “Woodland Hillstock” featuring Canned Heat with Country Joe McDonald.

August 16. 1:30-3 p.m. Afternoon science club on Tuesdays at Stough Canyon Nature Center in Burbank. $2/child, ages 8-12. (They let me bring my 5 year old, I just stayed with him). 2300 Walnut Avenue, Burbank. (Mapquest: Use 1500 Walnut Ave., 91501).

August 16. The Regency Valley Plaza 6 in North Hollywood offers movies for $1.50 all day on Tuesdays! $3 any other day. 6355 Bellingham Ave. North Hollywood, CA 91606. (818) 760-8400. Cash only, no outside food or drinks (they actually searched my purse!). http://www.regencymovies.com/main.php?theaterId=30

August 16-17. 10 a.m. $1 summer movies at select Regal Theatres. Selected G or PG movies start at 10 am every Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. This is the last week for the summer movies. Tickets and seating are first-come, first-served and are limited to theatre capacity. ASTRO BOY & CATS AND DOGS: REVENGE are playing at the Civic Center Stadium 16 in Simi Valley at 2751 Tapo Cyn Road. No further shows are playing at the Canyon Country Stadium 10 at 18800 Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. CHRONICLES OF NARNIA & PIRATES WHO DON'T DO ANYTHING are playing at the Grand Palace Stadium 6 at 4767 Commons Way in Calabasas. Here’s the link for the full summer schedule: http://www.regmovies.com/summermovieexpress/default.aspx

August 17. 7 p.m. Free children’s evening at Levitt Pavilion. This week: Parachute Express. 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena. www.levittpavilionpasadena.org

August 18. 5:30 p.m. Music on the Main jazz series at Descanso Gardens.This week: Robert Kyle, the Brazilian songbook, http://www.robertkyle.com/ Bring a picnic (usually not allowed in the Gardens.) Concert included with Gardens admission: $8 adults, $6 seniors/students, $3 children 5-12, free for children 4 and younger. No reciprocal gardens admissions. Free parking. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011. (818) 949-4200.

August 18. 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 bar opens 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! Adults: $10 / Students and Seniors: $6 / Children (3–12): $4 / Children under 3: Free. Purchase membership on-site and enjoy all nine Sizzling Summer Nights for free. This week: Chino Espinoza

Ongoing Events

On Wednesday and Friday nights this summer, Chatsworth St. in Granada Hills has become host to more than 25 gourmet food trucks who setup shop on the boulevard selling their culinary creations. Chatsworth St @ White Oak Ave. every Wednesday & Friday @ 5pm! http://www.granadahillsfoodtrucks.com/, (Thanks to Kristin S. for this kicback!)

Upcoming Events

August 27. 3 p.m. & 5 p.m. Sister Act 2: The Musical. Performance at Hope Chapel of the Valley, 7930 Mason Ave., Winnetka. Tickets are on sale now for $10 (adults) and $5 (children under 12). You can purchase them on line at www.cpacstudio.com. My friend Randi and her daughter are part of the production.

August 27. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Star Wars Day at the L.A. Zoo. Meet Star Wars characters and learn about creatures from other galaxies as well as our own. Regular admission prices. 5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027. http://lazoo.org

Kristin's Kickbacks List Week of 7-29

Activities

July 29. 7-9:30 p.m. Keyes Lexus of Valencia has free Jazz and Blues concert series every Friday night thru Aug. 27. This week: Artwork Jamal. 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 29. 6 p.m. Free weekly jazz concerts at LACMA. This week: Kathleen Grace.BP Grand Entrance. No reservations needed.

July 30. 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Latin Sounds in Hancock Park. (Free event every Saturday 5 pm–7 pm, May through September). This week: Edmar Castaneda in Hancock Park north of the museum.

July 31. 4 p.m. Free event at Levitt Pavilion. Kim Eung Hwa Dance Company. Levitt Pavilion, MacArthur Park, W. 6^th St. and S. Park View St., L.A. www.levittla.org

July 31. 6 p.m. FREE weekly concerts at LACMA. (Los Angles County Museum of Art). This week: Pianist Roger Wright. These one-hour concerts are presented free to the public on Sundays in the Leo S. Bing Theater. If you don’t make it there, you can also listen online for free at: http://www.lacma.org/programs/SundaysLive.aspx#audio

July 31. 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 Bruce in the USA – The World’s #1 Tribute to Bruce Springsteen and the E St. Band.

August 1. 9 a.m. Get tickets for September free day for Huntington Gardens. Call 800-838-3006 or get tickets online at http://www.huntington.org/default.aspx.

August 2. 1:30-3 p.m. Afternoon science club on Tuesdays at Stough Canyon Nature Center in Burbank. $2/child, ages 8-12. (They let me bring my 5 year old, I just stayed with him). 2300 Walnut Avenue, Burbank. (Mapquest: Use 1500 Walnut Ave., 91501).

August 2. The Regency Valley Plaza 6 in North Hollywood offers movies for $1.50 all day on Tuesdays! $3 any other day. 6355 Bellingham Ave. North Hollywood, CA 91606. (818) 760-8400. Cash only, no outside food or drinks (they actually searched my purse!). http://www.regencymovies.com/main.php?theaterId=30

August 2. 4 p.m.-8 p.m. Free evening at Kidspace Museum. This museum in Pasadena is a lot of fun for children and normally $10 a person, so this is a great deal! (It offers free admission the first Tuesday of the month from 4-8 p.m.) 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena, 91103. (626) 449-9144. www.kidspacemuseum.org.

August 2. 28th Annual National Night Out! National Night Out is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW). Law enforcement agencies, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations and public officials from over 15,000 communities in all 50 states, and Canadian cities and military bases worldwide participate in Night Out events. This is celebrated all over the valley. Listed below are a few locations:

Mason Park. 7 p.m. (Not sure if the food starts earlier. I would call to find out). Save the date for the next “Movies Under the Stars,” our series of free family-friendly movies screened outdoors in local parks, showing “Yogi Bear” on Tuesday, August 2 at Mason Park in Chatsworth. This movie night will feature public safety booths, free hot dogs and sodas (while supplies last) and lots of activities for kids.Mason Park, 10500 Mason Ave., Chatsworth, (1 block north of Devonshire St.) For more information, call (818) 756-8501.

Events in our community will occur from 5 – 9 p.m. at Randal David Simmons Park (West Valley Park) at 6731 Wilbur Ave. in Reseda and 6 – 9 p.m. at Van Nuys Community Police Station at 14410 Sylvan St. (in the Erwin Street Mall) in Van Nuys (free hot dogs and sodas served last year).

August 2. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Summer Family Series at Descanso Gardens. For six Tuesday evenings, enjoy family-friendly music, theater and fairies. Bring a picnic (normally not allowed in the Gardens) and get ready for fun. Concert included with Gardens admission: $8 adults, $6 seniors/students, $3 children 5-12, free for children 4 and younger. No reciprocal gardens admissions. Free parking. This week: The Summer Family Series concludes this week with the Elizabethan Festival, performed by Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum. Expect an evening of interactive theater performance and family fun, including dance.1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011. (818) 949-4200.

August 2-3. 10 a.m. $1 summer movies at select Regal Theatres. Selected G or PG movies start at 10 am every Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. Tickets and seating are first-come, first-served and are limited to theatre capacity. PIRATES WHO DON'T DO ANYTHING & SHREK FOREVER AFTER are playing at the Civic Center Stadium 16 in Simi Valley at 2751 Tapo Cyn Road. DESPICABLE ME & RAMONA & BEEZUS are playing at the Canyon Country Stadium 10 at 18800 Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. CLOUDY W/ MEATBALLS & GULLIVERS TRAVEL are playing at the Grand Palace Stadium 6 at 4767 Commons Way in Calabasas. Here’s the link for the full summer schedule: http://www.regmovies.com/summermovieexpress/default.aspx

August 2-3. 5 p.m. FREE LEGO^® mini model build at the Glendale Galleria LEGO store, the first Tuesday of each month (and Wednesday as well this month!) One free per child. Event is open to children ages 6 to 14 only. (I brought my 5 year old and he was able to complete the build without a problem). 2148 Glendale Galleria, Glendale, 91210. (818) 549-0733. Make sure to get there early (we arrived around 4:30) and bring snacks and things to do while you wait in line.

August 3. 7 p.m. Free children’s evening at Levitt Pavilion. This week: Rhythm Child. 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena. www.levittpavilionpasadena.org

August 4. 5:30 p.m. Music on the Main jazz series at Descanso Gardens.This week: Bob Sheppard, renowned reed player with straight-ahead jazz, http://bobsheppard.net/index.php. Bring a picnic (usually not allowed in the Gardens.) Concert included with Gardens admission: $8 adults, $6 seniors/students, $3 children 5-12, free for children 4 and younger. No reciprocal gardens admissions. Free parking. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011. (818) 949-4200.

August 4. 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 bar opens 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! Adults: $10 / Students and Seniors: $6 / Children (3–12): $4 / Children under 3: Free. Purchase membership on-site and enjoy all nine Sizzling Summer Nights for free. This week: Ricardo Lemvo.

Upcoming Events

August 27. 3 p.m. & 5 p.m. Sister Act 2: The Musical. Performance at Hope Chapel of the Valley, 7930 Mason Ave., Winnetka. Tickets are on sale now for $10 (adults) and $5 (children under 12). You can purchase them on line at www.cpacstudio.com. My friend Randi and her daughter are part of the production.

Kristin's Kickbacks List Week of 7-22

Activities

July 22. 7-9:30 p.m. Keyes Lexus of Valencia has free Jazz and Blues concert series every Friday night thru Aug. 27. This week: Tony Galla Band. 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 22. 6 p.m. Free weekly jazz concerts at LACMA. This week: John Beasley. BP Grand Entrance. No reservations needed.

July 23. Neighborhood yard sale in Simi Valley. Olympic Street in Simi Valley - North of Royal, south of Barnes, west of Sequoia.

July 23. 10 a.m. FREE Build and Grow Clinic at Lowes. Bring your child to Lowe's and they can build a project. 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.

July 23. 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Latin Sounds in Hancock Park. (Free event every Saturday 5 pm–7 pm, May through September). This week: Bobby Matos & his Afro Latin Jazz Ensemble at LACMA, in Hancock Park north of the museum.

July 24. 4 p.m. & 7 p.m. Free event at Levitt Pavilion. Diavolo Dance Theater Education Company. This group looks amazing! Here’s the website to check them out: http://www.diavolo.org/ Levitt Pavilion, MacArthur Park, W. 6^th St. and S. Park View St., L.A. www.levittla.org

July 24. 6 p.m. FREE weekly concerts at LACMA. (Los Angles County Museum of Art). This week: iPalpiti Artists. These one-hour concerts are presented free to the public on Sundays in the Leo S. Bing Theater. If you don’t make it there, you can also listen online for free at: http://www.lacma.org/programs/SundaysLive.aspx#audio

July 26. Borders is closing, so no more toddler story time. There are sales going on, starting July 22.

July 26. 1:30-3 p.m. Afternoon science club on Tuesdays at Stough Canyon Nature Center in Burbank. $2/child, ages 8-12. (They let me bring my 5 year old, I just stayed with him). 2300 Walnut Avenue, Burbank. (Mapquest: Use 1500 Walnut Ave., 91501).

July 26. The Regency Valley Plaza 6 in North Hollywood offers movies for $1.50 all day on Tuesdays! $3 any other day. 6355 Bellingham Ave. North Hollywood, CA 91606. (818) 760-8400. Cash only, no outside food or drinks (they actually searched my purse!) This week, they get Mr. Popper’s Penguins! The boys have wanted to see this one. http://www.regencymovies.com/main.php?theaterId=30

July 26. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Summer Family Series at Descanso Gardens. For six Tuesday evenings, enjoy family-friendly music, theater and fairies. Bring a picnic (normally not allowed in the Gardens) and get ready for fun. Concert included with Gardens admission: $8 adults, $6 seniors/students, $3 children 5-12, free for children 4 and younger. No reciprocal gardens admissions. Free parking. This week: The crowd-pleasing “A Faery Hunt” theater group returns to the Gardens on Tuesday, July 26. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011. (818) 949-4200.

July 26-27. 10 a.m. $1 summer movies at select Regal Theatres. Selected G or PG movies start at 10 am every Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. Tickets and seating are first-come, first-served and are limited to theatre capacity. DOOGAL & MEGAMIND are playing at the Civic Center Stadium 16 in Simi Valley at 2751 Tapo Cyn Road. CHRONICLES OF NARNIA & PIRATES WHO DON'T DO ANYTHING are playing at the Canyon Country Stadium 10 at 18800 Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. ASTRO BOY & FURRY VENGEANCE are playing at the Grand Palace Stadium 6 at 4767 Commons Way in Calabasas. Here’s the link for the full summer schedule: http://www.regmovies.com/summermovieexpress/default.aspx

July 27. 7 p.m. Free children’s evening at Levitt Pavilion. This week: Steve Songs. 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena. www.levittpavilionpasadena.org

July 28. 5:30 p.m. Music on the Main jazz series at Descanso Gardens.This week: Kristin Korb. Bring a picnic (usually not allowed in the Gardens.) Concert included with Gardens admission: $8 adults, $6 seniors/students, $3 children 5-12, free for children 4 and younger. No reciprocal gardens admissions. Free parking. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011. (818) 949-4200.

July 28. 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 bar opens 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! Adults: $10 / Students and Seniors: $6 / Children (3–12): $4 / Children under 3: Free. Purchase membership on-site and enjoy all nine Sizzling Summer Nights for free. This week: Yari Moré y su Orquesta.

Shopping Deals

July 28. Target’s bi-annual 75% off toy clearance should be starting today! I’ll be there, checking it out. Look carefully through the toy section, as the deals are often spread out.

Kristin's Kickbacks List Week of 7-15

Activities

July 15. 7-9:30 p.m. Keyes Lexus of Valencia has free Jazz and Blues concert series every Friday night thru Aug. 27. This week: 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 15. 6 p.m. Free weekly jazz concerts at LACMA. This week: Luther Hughes & Cannonball/Coltrane Project. BP Grand Entrance. No reservations needed.

July 16. 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Latin Sounds in Hancock Park. (Free event every Saturday 5 pm–7 pm, May through September). This week: Katia Moraes at LACMA, in Hancock Park north of the museum.

July 17. 4 p.m. Free event at Levitt Pavilion. Teacher Davis of the FUNdamentals Music and Movement. Levitt Pavilion, MacArthur Park, W. 6^th St. and S. Park View St., L.A. www.levittla.org

July 17. 6 p.m. FREE weekly concerts at LACMA. (Los Angles County Museum of Art). This week: iPalpiti Artists. These one-hour concerts are presented free to the public on Sundays in the Leo S. Bing Theater. If you don’t make it there, you can also listen online for free at: http://www.lacma.org/programs/SundaysLive.aspx#audio

July 19. 10:30-11:30 a.m. FREE. Toddler story time at Borders at the Northridge Mall.

July 19. 1:30-3 p.m. Afternoon science club on Tuesdays at Stough Canyon Nature Center in Burbank. $2/child, ages 8-12. (They let me bring my 5 year old, I just stayed with him). 2300 Walnut Avenue, Burbank. (Mapquest: Use 1500 Walnut Ave., 91501).

July 19. The Regency Valley Plaza 6 in North Hollywood offers movies for $1.50 all day on Tuesdays! $3 any other day. 6355 Bellingham Ave. North Hollywood, CA 91606. (818) 760-8400. Cash only, no outside food or drinks (they actually searched my purse!) http://www.regencymovies.com/main.php?theaterId=30

July 19. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Summer Family Series at Descanso Gardens. For six Tuesday evenings, enjoy family-friendly music, theater and fairies. Bring a picnic (normally not allowed in the Gardens) and get ready for fun. Concert included with Gardens admission: $8 adults, $6 seniors/students, $3 children 5-12, free for children 4 and younger. No reciprocal gardens admissions. Free parking. This week:.Will Geer's Theatricum Botanicum makes its second Descanso appearance of the summer when it performs "The Merry Wives of Windsor Wives,” Shakespeare's comedy about love and deception, and features the Bard’s beloved chunky schemer Sir John Falstaff. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011. (818) 949-4200.

July 19-20. 10 a.m. $1 summer movies at select Regal Theatres. Selected G or PG movies start at 10 am every Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. Tickets and seating are first-come, first-served and are limited to theatre capacity. CHARLOTTE'S WEB & MONSTERS VS. ALIENS are playing at the Civic Center Stadium 16 in Simi Valley at 2751 Tapo Cyn Road. HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON & NANNY MCPHEE RETURNS are playing at the Canyon Country Stadium 10 at 18800 Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. CATS AND DOGS: REVENGE & SHREK FOREVER AFTER are playing at the Grand Palace Stadium 6 at 4767 Commons Way in Calabasas. Here’s the link for the full summer schedule: http://www.regmovies.com/summermovieexpress/default.aspx

July 20. 7 p.m. at Levitt Pavilion. Putumayo Kids Presents: Kids World Party with Asheba! 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena. www.levittpavilionpasadena.org

July 21. 5:30 p.m. Music on the Main jazz series at Descanso Gardens.This week: Mitchell Long and Café Atlantico will perform a concert of Brazilian jazz. Bring a picnic (usually not allowed in the Gardens.) Concert included with Gardens admission: $8 adults, $6 seniors/students, $3 children 5-12, free for children 4 and younger. No reciprocal gardens admissions. Free parking. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011. (818) 949-4200.

July 21. 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 bar opens 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! Adults: $10 / Students and Seniors: $6 / Children (3–12): $4 / Children under 3: Free. Purchase membership on-site and enjoy all nine Sizzling Summer Nights for free. This week: Orquesta Son Mayor

Kristin's Kickbacks List Week of 7-8

Activities

July 8. 5-10 p.m. Burbank’s Birthday. Free event. The city turns 100 and is celebrating with an air parade, a Mascot parade, live performances, children’s entertainment, fireworks and a huge cupcake display. Downtown Burbank. www.downtown-burbank.org

July 8. 7-9:30 p.m. Keyes Lexus of Valencia has free Jazz and Blues concert series every Friday night thru Aug. 27. This week: Teresa James & the Rhythm Tramps. 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 8. 6 p.m. Free weekly jazz concerts at LACMA. This week: Clayton Cameron Sextet. BP Grand Entrance. No reservations needed.

July 9. 10 a.m. FREE Build and Grow Clinic at Lowes. Bring your child to Lowe's and they can build a project. 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.

July 9. 10 a.m. Big!Fun!World! Family Series: AXIS Dance Company. This dance troupe is known for integrating the audience into the dance experience. Reservations required. Tickets $5 for adults, free for children. Ford Theatre, 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, Hollywood. www.fordtheatres.org.

July 9. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Target Free Family Saturday: Once Upon a Time. Do crafts, watch vintage anime, listen to We Tell Stories and take part in a “storytelling tea party.” Japanese American National Museum, 369 E. First St., L.A. 213-625-0414.

July 9. 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Latin Sounds in Hancock Park. (Free event every Saturday 5 pm–7 pm, May through September). This week: Bobby Rodriguez Latin Jazz at LACMA, in Hancock Park north of the museum.

July 10. 4 p.m. Free event at Levitt Pavilion. Hudson Vagabond Puppets. The troupe uses over-size puppets and maskes to tell the story on Jemima Puddle Duck. Levitt Pavilion, MacArthur Park, W. 6^th St. and S. Park View St., L.A. www.levittla.org

July 10. 6 p.m. FREE weekly concerts at LACMA. (Los Angles County Museum of Art). This week: Pianist Bernadene Blaha and violinist Livia Sohn. These one-hour concerts are presented free to the public on Sundays in the Leo S. Bing Theater. If you don’t make it there, you can also listen online for free at: http://www.lacma.org/programs/SundaysLive.aspx#audio

July 11. Get a free 7.11 oz slurpee at 7-11 (Thanks, Janice!)

July 12. 10:30-11:30 a.m. FREE. Toddler story time at Borders at the Northridge Mall.

July 12. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Summer Family Series at Descanso Gardens. For six Tuesday evenings, enjoy family-friendly music, theater and fairies. Bring a picnic (normally not allowed in the Gardens) and get ready for fun. Concert included with Gardens admission: $8 adults, $6 seniors/students, $3 children 5-12, free for children 4 and younger. No reciprocal gardens admissions. Free parking. This week: Aaron Nigel Trio, reggae-flavored music. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011. (818) 949-4200.

July 12-13. 10 a.m. $1 summer movies at select Regal Theatres. Selected G or PG movies start at 10 am every Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. Tickets and seating are first-come, first-served and are limited to theatre capacity. TALE OF DESPEREAUX & YOGI BEAR are playing at the Civic Center Stadium 16 in Simi Valley at 2751 Tapo Cyn Road. CLOUDY W/ MEATBALLS & GULLIVERS TRAVEL are playing at the Canyon Country Stadium 10 at 18800 Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. MARMADUKE & MEGAMIND are playing at the Grand Palace Stadium 6 at 4767 Commons Way in Calabasas. Here’s the link for the full summer schedule: http://www.regmovies.com/summermovieexpress/default.aspx

July 13. 11 a.m. Puppet Show at Porter Ranch Library. 11371 Tampa Avenue
Porter Ranch, 91326. (Thanks, Janice!)

July 13. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Kids Club: Reptilian Adventures. The Reptile Family will let you look at snakes and lizards! Free event. The Lakes at Thousand Oaks, 2200 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks. 805-497-9861.

July 13. 7 p.m. Theatre 360 at Levitt Pavilion. Enjoy a free evening of family-friendly theater from this award-winning local children’s theater company. 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena. www.levittpavilionpasadena.org

July 14. 5:30 p.m. Music on the Main jazz series at Descanso Gardens.This week: Drummer Sammy Miller, a rising star on the jazz scene, headlines a concert of smooth jazz. Bring a picnic (usually not allowed in the Gardens.) Concert included with Gardens admission: $8 adults, $6 seniors/students, $3 children 5-12, free for children 4 and younger. No reciprocal gardens admissions. Free parking. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011. (818) 949-4200.

July 14. 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 bar opens 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! Adults: $10 / Students and Seniors: $6 / Children (3–12): $4 / Children under 3: Free. Purchase membership on-site and enjoy all nine Sizzling Summer Nights for free. This week: Johnny Planceo y su Conjunto Amistad

Back to School Supplies

Stores already have back to school sales! Here’s one for school supplies from Staples, good until 7-9-11. (Thanks, Nikki!)

· Staples Paper Clips, 50 ct – $0.50

· Staples 12″ Ruler – $0.50

· Avery Insertable 5 Tab Dividers – $0.50

· Staples Steel 1 Hole Punch – $0.50

· Staples Magnetic Bulldog Clip, 3 pk – $0.50

· Staples Main Composition Book, 80 sheets, 2 pk – $0.50

· Staples Pencil Box – $0.50

· Staples Pencil Sharpener – $0.50

· Staples Clipboard, 5.5″ x 9″ – $0.50