[Jen's List] Friday

[Jennifer Levinson]

Today - March 21, 2008 - Purim is a two day event beginning at sundown on the fourteenth day of Adar, the twelve month of the Jewish calendar. Every race and religion has their solemn and their festive holidays. Purim is the most festive of the Jewish Holidays. Children dress in costumes and people give gifts. Usually solemn synagogues are turned into festive arenas. Children shake noise makers called "Graggers". The festive holiday centers around Queen Esther, King Ahasuerus (or Achashverosh), Mordecahi and Haman. The event took place in the Persian Empire in the fifth century, B.C. It is a celebration of a major victory against oppression of the Jews at that time. 

And Happy Easter to all that celebrate on Sunday!
Have a terrific weekend!


Parents fed up at budget cuts
http://www.dailynews.com/search/ci_8579454?IADID



Homeschooling
http://www.dailynews.com/search/ci_8598295?IADID



To Do This Weekend
Ukrainian Pysanky Decorating
Sat.,March 22nd from 1-4 p.m.
Kids 10 and older learn the fancy, patterny way to embellish Easter eggs. 
Craft and Folk Art Museum, 5814 Wilshire Blvd., b/t S. Stanley Ave. & S. Curson Ave., Mid-Wilshire. Register at 323-937-4230 ext. 28.
AND
Girl of the Year Activity Day 

Saturday March 22nd from 10am-3pm 
Free event and activities, age 8+
American Girl Place - The Grove
189 The Grove Dr in Los Angeles
http://www.americangirl.com/stores/location_la.php#events
AND
Spring Farm Animals
Sun. March 23rd from 11 a.m.-3 p.m
Your little guy gets up close and personal with fuzzy friends. Baby goats, and sheep, and bunnies! 
Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr., at Fairlawn Dr., La Canada Flintridge (818-949-4200)
AND
Getting Fit Together Do Kindercise 
Sunday March 23rd at 2 and 3pm
Zimmer Children's Museum, 6505 Wilshire Blvd, L.A. Fitness specialist Farrah Zweig leads families in activities and games to promote family fitness. $3 per child with museum admission: $5 adults, $3 children. 323-761-8910. 
AND
Easter on the Farm! 
10:00am to 4:00pm on Saturday, March 22nd & Sunday, March 23rd
Come celebrate Easter at Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark . Festivities include an Easter Egg Hunt, photos with the Easter Bunny, tractor-drawn wagon rides and entrance to the Animal Center. Easter activities are included with the $5.00 admission to the Farm Center. The egg hunt happens continuously throughout the scheduled event & is open to all ages. Children under 2 are free. Don't forget your camera!
http://underwoodfamilyfarms.com 
3370 Sunset Valley Road in Moorpark
AND
Smart Girl's Guide to Manners age 8+
Monday March 24 from 10am -3pm i
including lunch, $90 per person
American Girl Place
The Grove
189 The Grove Dr in Los Angeles, CA 90036
Call 1 877-247-5223 for reservations - http://www.americangirl.com/stores/location_la.php#events



Deliver Me 
On Discovery Health. It is a documentary about 3 women gynecologist in the Los Angeles area. It deals with personal lives, medical lives etc. 
Check your local listings for air times. http://health.discovery.com/fansites/deliver-me/deliver-me.html


Looking for ambitious mom's to sell women's apparel 
Flexible Schedule. Must be friendly and love apparel. Please email chrissy at chrissykling at hotmail.com 



NOW CASTING FOR NEW ABC REALITY COMPETITION 
Are you spontaneous, adventurous, and seeking some serious thrills in your life? Do you have what it takes to compete in unique challenges that put your skills and abilities to the ultimate test?  Would you like the chance to win a HUGE amount of cash and prizes by beating others like yourself in this mind-blowing competition adventure show?  The show is a cross between survivor and amazing race. The contestants will travel the month of may and participate in challenges indicative to the culture they are in at the moment.  Currently on a nation-wide search looking for dynamic, competitive, and energetic individuals to compete in a NEW and EXCITING reality competition show.  Don't spend the month of May at your boring job.  Spend it on the experience of a lifetime! You MUST be at least 21 years old, a US citizen and have a valid US passport to  participate. If interested contact Michael and Paige at 310-849-1097 asap. Main Criteria:
-between 21 and 35
-competitive
-outgoing
-American
-current US passport


Wake Up Call
>From list member Romy(goddess_romy at sbcglobal.net)
I am sending this e-mail to share some valuable information about a traumatizing thing that happened to me last week—PLEASE read this and share with others, if my mistakes can help someone else prevent this unfortunate event, my loss will have a purpose. I wanted to send this note to you as a reminder and a wake up call to protect yourself against theft. Last week, I was casually shopping at my local supermarket in Sherman Oaks and I naively trusted the security and comfort of my local market and put my purse with my wallet in it, in the front of my shopping cart (which I have done many times before feeling 'safe' in my hood)anyway, I kept a pretty close eye on my property and then once when I turned my back for probably 1 second the thief took it, and within less than two hours that I went on a hunt to see if by chance I lost it, this crook managed to get about $20K using my name, ID and credit cards. They were able to get almost $10K in cash advances and the rest in retail merchandise, they were even able to use my atm debit card for almost $7K even though my account had a fraction of that in it, but the bank ‘approved’ the large transaction because I am such a good customer. I have learned that it is rather easy for a crook to get a cash advance of under $5000 up to three times a day by only showing ONE form of ID at a bank (the system flags transactions after 3 attempts, so my crook knew to hit it 3 times and stop). Lucky me I got a PRO. I am writing this note to remind you to be very aware of your property at all times and not subscribe to a false sense of security like I did. Also I am writing this to offer a few tips to assist with this situation if it should ever happen to you:
-Call all financial institutions instantly and cancel/freeze all cards and accounts (there are financial penalties the longer you wait)
-File a police report
-File an identity theft report with the FTC
-Contact the credit bureaus to place a fraud alert
-Consider not signing your credit cards and write Check ID on the back spot so it forces them to check ID
-Contact the DMV
-Contact your local bank
-DON’T carry your social security card in your wallet
-Carry a little as possible on you
-Make copies of every important item in your wallet
-Always carry your belongings on you, don’t put them down/away from you for even a second
-Be aware of who is around you at all times
Here are some articles that further explain this process:
http://moneycentral.msn.com/content/Savinganddebt/consumeractionguide/P80532.asp
http://www.bankrate.com/brm/news/debt/20050603a1.asp
Fortunately, I was not physically harmed and since I responded quickly I have been assured that I will not be liable for these fraudulent activities (just a lot of paperwork and phone calls), but emotionally I feel violated. I hope these insights will help raise your awareness so that you can prevent this from happening to you.


New auto buying program that Zag just launched for Overstock.com  
This site (available at http://cars.overstock.com/main.html  really shows off my company's technology, research tools, great pricing and, if you contact a dealer, the great customer service given by our closed network of dealers.  The best part is that the Overstock site is open to the public; you don't have to be in a closed membership group to use the program like all of Zag's other partners. So, if you are in the market for a new or used car you have to check this site out first!!  There's no reason to pay more than what we pre-arrange with our dealers and display upfront within the site before you have to submit any personal information.  If you are a great negotiator and enjoy the process you may be able to do better, but in this case the site will still be useful for research and information. 


Jamie Johnson - Professional Hair Stylist
In business for over 20 years, she has worked in some of the most upscale, prestigious salons on Ventura Boulevard, from Studio City to Encino and has managed a clientele ranging from celebrities and pro -athletes to corporate executives and stay at home Mom's. Jamie's specialties include dynamic color transformation and precision haircutting!  Whether you are in need of a rejuvenating lift with a new haircut for a new year or simply desire to spice up your color and even add some fun highlights or lowlights.  Give yourself a break in 2008 and set some time aside for yourself, to be pampered.  You are worth it! She also offers a "Kickback Program” - Every three clients you refer, you get either a free Haircut or credit toward color, protein treatment or whatever you would like to spend it on! New clients can look forward to free consultations.  Referrals by appointment only.  For more info call 818.823.7788 or send an email to razing.heaven at verizon.net.  


Mommy-n-me classes at Jewish Home for the Aging (JHA) in Reseda.
A loving support program for parents and children with the added help and special warmth of the residences at JHA. Try a FREE trial class. Thursdays 9am - 12noon  - mixed ages starting at 1 yr. old (siblings welcome)
Fridays 9am - 12noon  - 12 months and under (older siblings welcome but class is set up for infants)
Enjoy free play, with sand, watertables, toys, paint, playhouses, play kitchens, playdough, climbing things, ride-on things, etc.... There is story time and songs to sing.  Its indoors and outdoors. There is a facilitator and 2 helpers/teachers.  The helpers are interactive with kids so moms can enjoy adult chat time.   The facilitator is available (and very experienced) to answer questions and discuss parenting topics.  
A mid morning meal is served to both child and mom.  You are also welcome to bring a guest (grandparents, spouse, in-laws, siblings, nanny, etc..) .... all are served a mid-morning meal.  JHA mommy-me class does not close for traditional academic holidays.  They are only closed on a few select holidays.  So if you are not able to attend during the school year, or you work full time, and you find yourself with extra time off, you are welcome to join mid-session, during summer, winter or spring school breaks, or anytime. You do not have to be jewish to attend.  
Fees:  Thursday attendance (mixed ages):  $357.00, 21 sessions.  Friday attendance (under 12 months): $374.00, 22 sessions
This session has already started (on Feb. 1), so you may pro-rate out missed classes.  This current session ends June 26/27.  A new session will begin the following week (after June 26/27).  There are no breaks between sessions. 
You may attend both classes (Thursday and Friday) for the same price, and siblings are welcome at no additional cost.  Sliding scale available.
***Parking instructions are specific to get to the Parenting Place, please email Cheryl Carpet for parking instructions to be emailed to you. 
Parenting Place, JHA
7150 Tampa Ave. in Reseda
(818) 774-3300
Cheryl Carpet - oneisland at yahoo.com

 
NEW TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN CLASS!
Give your child the gift of another year to develop the skills and confidence that will take them successfully through school and life! BETH HILLEL DAY SCHOOL's new TK program is designed for students who are either not old enough or not quite ready for today’s demanding academic kindergarten programs.  The TK program provides a new challenge for students who have completed preschool, introducing academics at a pace that allows more time for play, creative expression and the development of social skills. For more information call Betsy Abramsohn at (818) 763-9148 ext. 144 or email at babramsohn at tbhla.org.  The TK class will be limited to the first 10 students who enroll.


Put a Contract our on Yourself!
StickK promotes healthier and happier living by helping people achieve their personal goals through the signing of Commitment Contracts. Happier people = happier world. http://stickk.com/ 


The perfect way to remember Your very special day
The unique Calendar keepsake has been designed to identify a very significant month and day in the life of the person who wears it.  Marked with a genuine Swarovski crystal, on the date in the month that holds a special meaning, this UNIQUE piece is the perfect gift to yourself or someone else  -  it never loses the special meaning to the person who wears it. Available in solid Sterling Silver, your calendar piece ( approximately ¾ inches wide by ¾ inches tall) can be used to mark a Birthday, Anniversary, Recovery Birthday, Communion Date, Bar/Bat Mitzvah or to remember any other important date in one’s life.  Admired by both men and women, it is a piece that makes the recipient proud to own. www.notjustanyoldday.com


50% off at Elements Aveda - Calabasas Commons
Now thru April 20th 50% off on haircuts and brow waxing benefiting the Surfriders Foundation - ask for Gloria - she is an incredible hairdresser and a sweet person! 818-224-3442


Summer Camp in Camarillo 
July 7th to August 15th - If you are looking for cool temperatures for your children and fun activities, here the counselors are WONDERFUL and most come from large families so they know how to care for kids of ALL ages and they do it with sincerity and kindness. http://www.ganizzycamarillo.com/ 9 am to 3pm, extended care available. If you wish to ask the Director any questions, email Leah Lang  at LeahLang at gmail.com or call 805 383 9070


Popcorn ingredient causes lung disease: U.S. study
http://health.yahoo.com/news/reuters/lungs_popcorn_dc.html



BABY NURSE LEAD
LEDA WEISSMAN is a wonderful, experienced baby nurse who has been working with us since we came home from the hospital. She has worked for many friends of ours and has excellent impeccable references (including other Jenslist moms). She is extremely loving and professional and has worked as a baby nurse for over 15 years. She is fully licensed and credentialed. HER RATES ARE EXTREMELY REASONABLE. She is Brazilian, but speaks perfect English (and Spanish). We highly recommend her without reservation. SHE IS LOOKING FOR A BABY NURSE POSITION FOR APRIL. Call Leda at:  (310)367-3211) cell. For a reference, you can email Bonnie at: sikowitzb at sbcglobal.net.


Mommy & Me Workout
Be a Mom that gets a work out.
Pilates & Yoga Classes - ages 6 weeks-2 years
Mondays & Thursdays 9:30am - 10:30am
WAIT NO MORE!  Mommy and me Classes in the VALLEY.
Park under the building & take elevator to first floor.
Front of building Suite #101 (far right door).
Park Strollers on West Side of Building.
Pilates Sports Center
16430 Ventura Blvd. #101
818-788-8112
Helena is a Master Pilates teacher (she teaches teachers) and she is an amazing masseuse too!



Launch international film competition on behalf of Rain Bird
The 2008 Intelligent Use of Water Film Competition asks filmmakers to submit short films that answer the question: How do we use water responsibly?  The competition officially launched on March 1, 2008  and will accept submissions through September 1, 2008. A panel of judges will review the entries and finalists will be selected and invited to a screening event on October 11, 2008, in Los Angeles at the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden. Following the screening, winners will be announced and cash prizes of $6,000 for the Jury Award and $3,000 for the Audience Choice Award will be awarded. You can learn more by visiting http://www.iuowfilm.com 
Not a filmmaker? Get involved anyways by spreading the word by becoming a fan on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/2008-Intelligent-Use-of-Water-Film-Competition/12389947754?ref=ts, or a friend on Myspace http://www.myspace.com/iuowfilm or watch/learn more about Rain Bird’s water conservation efforts on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/rainbirdcorp. 
For further questions please contact 
Will @ The Pollack PR Marketing Group 310-556-4443
Thank you!



Swim Teachers
A lot of people have asked for swim teacher referrals lately, being that summer is just around the corner. Here are the leads that I have rec'd:
  a.. Mandy - 818-209-6961 
  b.. Jill Kelly (805) 583- 4515 or (805) 428-1209. 
  c.. Jonathan Weiss - (818) 632-4745 
  d.. Rita Da Silva Dutra - ritadutra at spotfilms.com 
  e.. Dena Horasanian runs her own company teaching lessons. She usually hires 5 instructors and they teach all over the Valley, much of the Westside (Santa Monica, Palisades, Bel Air, Beverly Hills), and out by Newbury Park, Thousand Oaks, Westlake, Agoura, etc.Her number is (805) 379-9429. She has 4, 5 week sessions during the summer, beginning in mid-May, and ending late-September. Her email address is djncats at aol.com 
  f.. The Water Whisperer - What makes this school different than others is that it was formed by Emily Cohen - a teacher both in and out of the water. She is also one of the only schools to be a member of the United States Swim school Association in the Valley! She can teach children who have never been in the water and who fear water, as well as kids with special needs and just plain regular kids too. Visit www.thewaterwhisperer.com for more info or call 818-906-7463 or email emily at thewaterwhisperer.com 
  g.. Head Above Water Swim School - The choice Swim Service of parents and their children in the Greater Los Angeles Area. They offer swim lessons in the privacy of your pool or in one of their heated pools. They also offer lifeguard services to help keep your pool party safe. The locations include Beverly Hills, West LA, Pasadena and Westlake Village. Call today to make your reservation at 888-990-7946 or email swim at headabovewater.net or visit www.HeadAboveWater.net

Out, Out Damned Spot" (Parents, April 2007)
Crayon on the wall -­ Heat the stain with a hair dryer, then squish a small piece of bread into a ball and rub it against the wall
Play­Doh on the couch -­ Let it dry overnight, then loosen with a stiff brush and vacuum
Juice on the carpet -­ Pour a 50-50 solution of hydrogen peroxide and water on the spot. Let it sit for 15 minutes. Rinse with a solution of 1/4 cup white vinegar to 1/2 gallon of water.  Rinse again with plain water
Markers on clothes ­- Rinse the fabric under cool water.  Add a little rubbing alcohol.  Then launder.



Psychotherapist specializing in children and parenting
Located in Westwood - 310) 470-4100 -  www.alisonhaber.com


Are You an AMBITIOUS MOTHER/ENTREPRENEUR ? 
MasterMind Groups For the Ambitious Mothers/Entrepreneurs, Help You Succeed. There is synergy of energy, commitment and excitement that participants bring to a mastermind group. The Ambitious Mothers TM MasterMind Groups offer a combination of masterminding, peer brainstorming and support in a group setting. Because Ambitious MothersTM MasterMind Groups are only for the self-employed mothers, the Group focus is razor-sharp: Creating Small Business Success and Family Harmony. The group meet twice a month Via Teleconference Calls.
What You'll Get by Participating in this Ambitious Mothers/Entrepreneurs MasterMind Group:
Work with your group, and Certified Business coach for Ambitious MothersTM Christine Lewicki ( and mother of 3 girls age 7, 5 and 15 months). Learn and Implements her Power tools for  Success.
Increase your own experience and confidence 
Sharpen your business skills 
Create real progress in your business 
Add an instant and valuable support network 
Get honest feedback, advice and brainstorming 
Borrow on the experience and skills of the other members 
Create plans and have the group hold you accountable for fulfilling your plans and goals 
Receive critical insights into yourself and your business 
Work ON your business, not just IN it; make the transition from being self-employed to acting like a business owner 
A sense of shared endeavor - there are others out there!
Your peers and the coach give you feedback, help you brainstorm new possibilities, and set up accountability structures that keep you focused and on track. You will create a community of supportive colleagues who will brainstorm together to move the individuals and the group to new heights. Because your peers are other Self employed Ambitious mothers, they know exactly what you're dealing with because they've been through it themselves.
SPACE IS LIMITED SO APPLY TODAY ! Visit http://ocoaching.com
New group Starting On TUESDAY MARCH 25th. Meet via Conference Call Tuesdays from 12.15 to 1.45pm. 3/25, 4/8, 4/22, 5/13, 5/27, 6/10. PRICE $250 - (310) 525 7715 



Facials and Waxing
Leslie has been going to Sharon Feist  for 7 years now. Located in Woodland Hills at the Madonna Novelle salon on Ventura by Corbin. 703 0888. Very gentle and most efficient. Her prices are reasonable. For a reference, contact Leslie at schulers5 at yahoo.com


Handyman/Gardener/Carpenter/Builder Leads
Pedro needs more work - .  He speaks English and Spanish. He has worked with us for 5 years and is responsible, kind, harworking, and above all, talented and reliable. His prices are affordable. People may call Pedro at 818-613-7035. His work is incredible and is prices are very fair. For a reference, email Emily at iknowem at gmail.com
AND
Joel Grauman 818-654-9500. Can fix or build just about anything.  Experience in remodeling bathrooms, kitchens, homes, building barbecues, fences, installing recessed lighting, etc.  Extremely responsible.  Email mograuman at aol.com for reference.


The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or completeness.  Neither the information nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation.   You are receiving this email you previously subscribed to this email program, and if you wish to unsubscribe from the email list, go to www.jenlevinson.com
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