Richard Nixon Presidential Library & Museum

Posted on May 8, 2024August 12, 2025 by Francine Brokaw

Located south of Los Angeles in Yorba Linda, California, the Richard Nixon Presidential Library & Museum gives visitors a deep dive into the life and career of the 37th President of the United States. Richard Nixon served from January 1969 to August 1974, when he resigned his presidency. The museum is a spotlight on the 1960s, 1970s, and more, bringing visitors into the many accomplishments and also the disgraces of Nixon.

For those who were alive during the Nixon presidency, they might not remember what he accomplished during his time at the White House, and for those who were not alive during those tumultuous years, this place is history unfolding through images, videos, and much more.

A visit to the museum begins with a short film that looks at the life and career of Richard Nixon with brief interviews with those who knew him. After this brief introduction to Richard Nixon, guests travel through the halls as history unfolds on the walls and on videos throughout the location. It is a giant history book of the later part of the 20th century.

Throughout the museum are statues of various world leaders that played a part in the Nixon presidency, as well as models of Washington, D.C., The Supreme Court, The Senate chambers, and the House chambers. There are sets depicting people, places, and events. And at one point if you look up there is a replica of the lunar landing. Richard Nixon was the president when Neil Armstrong first walked on the moon.

Richard Nixon had many accomplishments during his White House years as well as the infamous Watergate chapter in history that has defined his presidency in many ways. Yet, he was responsible for many things that have gone unnoticed over time. During his presidency these were accomplished:
Established Title IX
Established The War on Cancer diverting funds directly to aid researchers in their efforts to find a cure for cancer
Abolished the draft
Established the Clean Air act
Established OSHA
Lowered the voting age to 18
Opened relations with China

Also, during his presidency, the Watergate scandal erupted which eventually led to his resignation. This is all part of the museum and visitors see the timeline of events leading up to his final speech biding his staff “au revoir.” The entire speech is shown on a TV set for visitors to see and hear.

The Vietnam war was also a big part of the Nixon presidency. While he inherited it and campaigned on ending it, there were incidences during his term that would serve to also define his presidency.

The museum includes has a life size replica of the Nixon oval office and is set up as it was during his presidency. Most presidential libraries have replicas of their oval offices. It is a good way to see where he worked and what he saw when he looked out across his big presidential desk. And yes, visitors are encouraged to sit in the chair and become their own president. Well, maybe not their own president but they can see and even feel the weight of the office from behind the large wooden desk. Nixon used the Wilson Desk that was used by President Woodrow Wilson. He decided to use this desk because it was the one he used when he was Vice President under President Eisenhower.

The East Room is replicated at the museum. This enormous room – referred to as East Room West – is where currently stage productions, seminars, and other events are available to the public. The actual East Room in the White House is used for State Dinners and large events.

Guests then exit the museum building and are instantly met by hundreds of roses in the First Lady’s Rose Garden. These colorful flowers line the area en route to the Nixon birthplace. This is the actual house in which Richard Nixon was born. A docent guides guests through a couple of the rooms and imparts stories about the Nixon family. This house has not been moved; this is the actual location of the Nixon house.

Next to the house is a Presidential helicopter used by Richard Nixon as well as several other presidents. The army green color is punctuated by the words “The United States of America” and the Presidential seal is right there by the door. Known now as “Marine One,” it’s impressive and somewhat awe-inspiring to see this machine that played a big part in our history and was essential to several presidents.

Guests can visit the gravesite of both Mrs. Nixon and President Nixon, where they can pay their respects.

When visitors reenter the museum they have the opportunity to purchase memorabilia and books.

A trip to the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum is well worth the time. As Nixon said at the opening of the Nixon Library in 1990, “When you go through the Library, I hope you will remember that while the past is interesting, it is important only as it points the way to a better future.”

Richard Nixon might have had his presidency tarnished by Watergate, but learning about him is inspiring in many ways. And he did have a sense of humor, as he demonstrated on an episode of the hit comedy series Laugh In when he joked with the phrase of the time, “Sock it to me.”

No matter your political leanings, visiting this museum is an education and memorable experience.

Check out this brief slideshow of the museum

About the Author

Francine Brokaw writes about books, products, travel, and all aspects of entertainment for over 30 years. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County.

Refresh yourself while at Disneyland Resort

Posted on May 4, 2024August 12, 2025 by Francine Brokaw

With the hot days of summer just around the corner the Disneyland Resort will be on many people’s destination list. Whether for family summer vacations, honeymoons, anniversaries, birthdays, or just because, Disneyland and Disney California Adventure offer plenty of fun and food for all.

While there are a slew of great restaurants throughout both parks as well as Downtown Disney and the Disneyland hotels, sometimes all you want is a refreshing drink to whet your whistle. I have just what it takes to refresh and hydrate so you can tackle more Disney fun.

Dole Whip and Dole Whip Float

I’m referring to none other than the Dole Whip Float. After discovering Dole Whip decades ago in Hawaii, I am always one to search out local places that offer that delicious treat. Disneyland does just that. Note: there are many more flavors of Dole Whip, (especially in Walt Disney World) but can they really be as good as the classic original?

Dole Whips are soft-serve pineapple non-dairy ice cream and totally delicious. Now pair that with a glass of pineapple juice and you have a great pineapple flavor refreshing libation.

So where can you treat yourself to this delicious drink? In Disneyland Park simply go to the Tiki Juice Bar (in front of the Enchanted Tiki Room) where you can get your Dole Whip, Dole Whip Float, or just a spear of fresh pineapple. And just behind the Tiki Room is The Tropical Hideaway featuring some food options as well as the Dole Whips and Dole Whip Floats.

And if you’re just shopping and dining at Downtown Disney, or if you’re staying at the Disneyland Hotel, you can get a Dole Whip Float (with or without a splash of rum – for 21 and older, of course) at the Tangaroa Terrace by the pool. This Tropical Bar and Grill offers food and drinks, and my favorite – the Dole Whip Float.

With all the mentions of “Dole Whip Floats” you think the Dole might send me some vouchers? Uh…no. But that’s OK. They’re worth it. Cheers!

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.

‘Meghan and Harry, The Real Story: Persecutors or Victims – Book Review

Posted on April 28, 2024April 28, 2024 by Francine Brokaw

Lady Colin Campbell’s updated book, Meghan and Harry, The Real Story: Persecutors or Victims, has brought to readers new facts and stories since the original book was published in 2021. Since that time, many things have come to light regarding the stories the couple have told and the activities in which they have participated. Instead of simply adding extra chapters, Lady C weaves in new information with the old, a time-consuming task she has admitted took her ten months to complete.

The romance between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle caught the attention of the world. Finally Charles and Diana’s youngest son had found someone with whom to share his life. He was anxious to do so and as the book points out, he had had a couple serious relationships but neither of those young women wanted to commit to him and all that came with marrying into the Royal family. They were independent and intelligent women who saw the flaws in Harry and didn’t want to put up with him and his behavior.

Since leaving the Royal family the couple has told many stories that have been changed through the years and proven false. The first was the notorious lie that the Royal family were racists. On the contrary, as Lady C points out, the fact that Meghan is bi-racial was a plus. Even though the background checks on her had shown her to be less than stellar, according to Lady C, “Her bi-racial identity was an answer to the family’s prayers.” With the Commonwealth made up mostly of people of color, having Meghan on the team looked like a great opportunity to raise the affection for the British monarchy. An institution headed by an exclusively white family when most of the people were people of color, was something the monarchy was all too aware. Therefore, Meghan was just what was needed to give the Commonwealth a shot in the arm. But they (the family and the Commonwealth) soon regretted it.

The contradictions to many of the stories the couple has volunteered over the years, beginning with their famous engagement interview, have led people to think carefully about what they say. Their lies are abundant, and the book points them out so readers can recognize the truth from fiction.

Another interesting aspect of the book is the part where the author looks at Meghan’s childhood and the absence of her mother during many of those years. This is a curious look at where her mother might have spent those years and why. Lady C has done her homework and put on her detective hat to uncover several aspects of the lives of those involved in this real life soap opera.

Meghan’s former close friend Gina Nelthorpe-Cowne has said that prior to Meghan’s meeting with Harry, she admitted she googled him and knew everything about him. That statement alone nullifies Meghan’s assertion that she knew nothing about the royals or Harry before she met him, which she famously stated in the engagement interview.

Lady Colin Campbell also reiterates what she has said in many instances and that is the fact that a child who loses a parent before the age of fourteen has more emotional turmoil than older children. And Harry himself has said that he had not worked through the trauma by the time he met Meghan. This was an opening for her to reach that immature man and form him to suit her goals.

Yet another interesting part of the book is the focus on the “gestation” of the children and the altering of Archie’s birth certificate, which Meghan claimed she was forced to do by the palace. That was a lie. And as Lady C touches on throughout the pages of this enlightening book, Meghan is calculating and conniving to cover her tracks. The book points out how Meghan basically went out of her way to wear clothes that accentuated her “bump” and was always clutching it to bring attention to the supposed fact that she was carrying a royal baby. With all the secrecy about the births of the two children and the way Meghan acted while she was supposedly pregnant with Archie, not to mention the changing bump, Lady C delves into this aspect completely and rather well. She also discusses the legitimacy needed to be in the line of succession. So far, there has been no confirmation about the “legitimacy” of the two children. As she writes, the birth announcement of Lily from Buckingham Palace states the baby had been born “for” the couple. That alone leaves plenty of room for doubt about the legitimacy of the little girl. These troublesome aspects of their births will follow those kids throughout their lives.

Meghan’s obsession with Diana, is something she shares with Harry. Was she angling to be the next “Princess Di?” The book states she wanted to be bigger than Diana. As Harry stated, “What Meghan wants, Meghan gets,” and although Lady C does not connect this statement directly to her “closeness” to his mother, could that be what was behind this outlandish order?

Stories about the wedding and the wedding breakfast shine a massive spotlight on Meghan’s rude behavior. Her self-centered and narcissistic personality has her believing the world is in love with her. Meghan and Harry were soon believing that William and Catherine were jealous of them. That is another falsehood, which anyone in their the author says is preposterous. Perhaps, on Harry’s side, it was because William had cautioned him against rushing into the marriage. But for Meghan, she has always seen herself as someone above the crowd and who deserves the jealousy and adoration of the world.

In the book Lady C inserts statements by other royals about Meghan’s behavior and how she did not fit in or want to fit into the role into which she married. This woman had the world at her feet but stomped on everyone who didn’t live up to or recognize her overly important image of herself.

The aspect of privacy is covered as the couple has no compunction about exposing secrets of others yet throw fits when their own privacy is invaded. The public has seen this over and over, with their TV interviews, the “show” on Netflix, and books.

The book looks at how the couple uses their “friends” to disseminate their propaganda about their relationship and to spread rumors about their families.

The Archewell Foundation, Meghan’s desire to go into politics, their desire to be rich and famous (although they are now infamous), Harry’s court cases, Harry’s vendetta against the British press, and much more are covered in this all-inclusive look at the couple who left their responsibilities, families, and the truth behind in search of riches, fame, and glory.

Lady C writes, “An undisciplined and destructive player who breaks rank will therefore ultimately be nothing but a force for destruction for the royal family concerned.” That statement sums up the whole Meghan/Harry situation.

One of the tidbits pointed out in the book is the fact that Canada did not want to be home to a working member of the royal family. The country was a pit stop for the Sussexes as California was always the destination Meghan had set for them. While they were getting their situation with the family organized, the Queen was careful about how everything played out due to possible future members of the family deciding to exit their responsibilities as Harry and Meghan did.

The couples’ engagements, speeches, “awards” for who knows what, and their constant swipes at the UK, the British press, and their own families are laid out from cover to cover. This book is indeed a very comprehensive look at what the world has been witnessing and slowing uncovering as both Harry and Meghan continue to be a stain on their families histories, and a disappointment to the people of the United Kingdom. Lady C’s writing is unmatched when it comes to setting out all the things the two have done and said since they met. What readers must do is look at the words she uses, and also read between the lines. As a confidante of many in the know, she manages to get the information to the public in a very intelligent way without compromising the sources.

Reading this book is like opening the window and seeing what has happened as a result of Harry meeting Meghan. While many people were initially excited about their union, including Lady C herself, the couple has managed to destroy all the good feelings people had for them and show their personalities for what they are. The title of the book asks, “Persecutors or Victims?” It is evident they are not victims, so they must be the persecutors. There is so much to unpack in this book it is difficult to cover everything in a brief review, other than to say it is a thorough, comprehensive, and enlightening look at this royal drama. Lady Colin Campbell uses facts, quotes, and her own knowledge to let the readers know exactly what is what. And she does it in a way that is fascinating. It’s a must-read for anyone who knows anything about the British royal family or anyone who wants to understand what half of the world is talking about on YouTube and elsewhere.

While this is a fascinating read, it behooves readers to take their time as there is so much to understand. From the first page to the last it is a book that is overflowing with accurate information. Once again Lady Colin Campbell has delivered an honest and insightful book.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw has been covering books, products, travel, and all aspects of entertainment for over 32 years. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County.

Family drama ‘MaryLand’ on Masterpiece

Posted on April 28, 2024April 28, 2024 by Francine Brokaw

MaryLand is a three-part series on Masterpiece focusing on family relationships, dynamics, and secrets. Suranne Jones and Eve Best star as sisters Becca and Rosaline.

When the sisters get a phone call telling them their mother is dead, they must travel from the U.K. to the Isle of Man to identify the body. But why was their mom on the island when she was supposed to be in Wales?

Becca leaves her husband Jim (Andrew Knott) and two daughters and meets up with her sister on the island. It’s there where the big mystery, or mysteries, around their mother begin to come into focus. They discover plenty of secrets about their mom via her friends. Pete (Hugh Quarshie) was very close to their mom and little by little the sisters get a better understanding of their mother’s life on the island.

Then another friend, Cathy (Stockard Channing) adds more background to why the woman was on the island in the first place, and why she felt she wanted to stay there. So, the sisters wonder, did their dad know his wife was on the Isla of Man? And what other secrets were their parents keeping from them? It turns out there were quite a lot.

As Becca and Rosaline unravel the intricacies of their mother’s life, these two sisters begin to regain the closeness they lost years ago, albeit very slowly. And, secrets being kept by the sisters come out as well, bringing them even closer.

There are three episodes in this mini-series. The first is when the sisters discover their mother was leading a secret life. The second deals with the emotions of the two women as they pick apart the details of what happened on the island. And the third focuses on the family as a whole when their father and Jim and Jim and Becca’s daughters come to the island where the family must once and for all deal with everything that happened there and also confront their own personal situations. As the family heals from all the upheaval, the story takes on a more upbeat tone. Finally there are answers and new beginnings. Without giving any spoiler alerts, there are plenty of secrets that come out throughout the three episodes, and viewers will want to stick with Becca and Rosaline until the end. It’s an intriguing story.

MaryLand is an intense family drama that catches the attention of viewers from the start. It premieres on Masterpiece on PBS May 5, 2024. It runs through May 19, 2024.

About the Author

Images courtesy ITV Plc

Pixar Fest 2024 at Disneyland Resort

Posted on April 26, 2024August 12, 2025 by Francine Brokaw

It’s finally back! From April 26 through August 4, 2024, Disneyland Resort will finally once again present Pixar Fest featuring and celebrating the characters and films from Pixar. Audiences have been entertained and connected with the stories and characters from the beloved animated films. Most people have their favorite films and characters, but when it comes down to it, the films from Pixar have touched our lives for 30 years. Yes, it was just about 30 years ago when Woody, Buzz, and the gang first appeared on the big screen, and they, along with plenty other characters (human, animal, alien) have endeared themselves to generations of people around the world. These characters have touched our emotions, made us laugh and cry.

Pixar Fest is a celebration of all of this. With characters meeting and greeting visitors, merchandise, and special food offerings, this celebration is a fun event and one many guests have looked forward to and planned their visits to the resort accordingly. There has not been a Pixar Fest since 2018 and those in the know are not sure if or when there will be another, so this is the summer to enjoy all that the shows and characters have to offer.

Celebrate Friendship and Beyond!

Pixar Pals join together for a new parader

“Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” is a new parade that winds through part of Disney California Adventure. Soul’s Joe Gardner and Red’s Red Panda Mei are part of the parade along with Luca, Alberto, and Giulia (on her Vespa). Inside Out’s Joy and Sadness, Up, Miguel and Dante from Coco, Mike and Sulley from Monsters, Inc., and some of the toys from Toy Story are also part of this celebratory parade. One of the adorable moments is when Russell (Up) rides down the street on Kevin, while Carl Fredricksen waves from the float with Dug enjoying the ride from the rear. The Incredibles come through on their special transporters, and, well, there is much more. And for an additional price, there is a Parade Viewing Dining Package that includes special treats and a reserved viewing section for the parade. As always, check with the park to make reservations and get more details.

Creative and Show Director Robin Trowbridge said the message in the parade, as well as the entire Pixar Fest, is “friendship matters.” The Pixar lamp leads the procession followed by all the fun floats and between the floats are dancers and skaters. It’s definitely a musical experience that weaves parts of the film’s themes into the new music, “Better Together” representing friendship.

The Nighttime Spectacular is just that

“Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” returns with some all-new scenes to Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif., as highlighted entertainment for Pixar Fest in 2024. (Joshua Sudock/Disneyland Resort)

The nighttime spectacular is awe-inspiring. “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” returns with scenes from the films complete with lasers, projections, and music help to bring the love of these films to the castle, the facade of “it’s a small world”, the buildings on Main Street, and night sky in Disneyland Park. As KC Wilkerson, media director, explained, the projections are richer in color with new pyrotechnics most nights. And for guests with a magic band plus, those bands will be synchronized to the colors and music in the spectacular. His excitement about the show is evident. “I was getting paid to watch Pixar films” in preparation for the creation of the spectacular. “That was awesome.” In total, there are 76 Pixar characters in the show, which begins with Buzz Lightyear flying through the air and later the Up house floats above the castle. This is an all-encompassing representation of Pixar as every film is represented in this colorful, imaginative, musical, fun, and memorable spectacular.

Family Fun Zone

Kids (and adults) will enjoy the Pixar Pals Playtime Party at the Fantasyland Theater in Disneyland Park. This event for the entire family offers plenty of photo opportunities, meet and greets with characters, and some of the Pixar shorts play on the screen. Tracy Halas, creative director describes it as “a family zone.”

At the Pixar Pals Playtime Party at Fantasyland Theatre at Disneyland Park, guests will be able to get into the groove at a high-energy show, enjoy interactive games, photo locations and activities inspired by Pixar feature films, and even watch a selection of iconic shorts on the big screen during Pixar Fest, from April 26-Aug. 4, 2024 at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Calif. (Artist Concept/Disneyland Resort)

Club Pixar is a hoppin’ place

Club Pixar at the Hollywood Backlot in Disney California Adventure has music and dancing with the flair of the Pixar films. This is a hopping place in the evening.

Something to eat or drink? 80 new recipes for Pixar Fest

The food (sweet and savory) was created to blend with the theme of the celebration. Portorosso Pasta was inspired by the Italian story of Luca. There are selections inspired by Ratatouille, Inside Out, Elemental, Soul, Turning Red, and more. According to the resort’s culinary director, Chef John State, they found a way to tie the food together with the characters and stories of the Pixar films. With 80 food items created for Pixar Fest, there is something for everyone throughout both parks, whether guests want a delicious meal, snack, or a flavorful dessert. The food tells the story of the Pixar films. For example, for Cars there is a bleu cheeseburger, Coco is represented by a delicious cupcake, Luca has a parfait, for Up there is a fried bologna sandwich, Toy Story is represented by a pizza cheeseburger, and the list goes on. And beginning May 10, there will be six marketplaces in Disney California Adventure with more Pixar-themed food and beverages. Note: there is not a Sip and Savor Pass for this event.

Here are some samples of the sweets to enjoy during the festival. And yes, there are plenty of savory items as well.

The Marigold bridge inspired by Disney and Pixar’s “Coco” will be at Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante at Disneyland Park – tri-colored white sponge, cinnamon croquantine, cinnamon mousse and cream cheese frosting, decorated with a chocolate bridge and orange chocolate shavings. (David Nguyen/Disneyland Resort)

Sea monster friends parfait inspired by Disney and Pixar’s “Luca” will be at Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe at Disneyland Park – layers of graham cracker crumbs, mascarpone cheesecake, berry blue gelatin and blue Chantilly topped with a Luca chocolate decoration. (David Nguyen/Disneyland Resort)

Pixar Fest Cake available during Pixar Fest from April 26-Aug. 4, 2024, at Plaza Inn at Disneyland Park. (David Nguyen/Disneyland Resort)

Open your wallets, there are some great items you’ll want to purchase

Keeping up with history of merchandise from Disney (you know you’re going to buy something) there are plenty of things to purchase as mementos from the celebration. The Pizza Planet (Toy Story) popcorn bucket is sure to be a favorite. Also, there is special Pixar Fest clothing, medallions, backpacks, and more available during the fest. An adorable headband with velcro characters makes it fun and easy to design a personalized item.

Pixar Fest 2024

For fun, try to find the hidden Easter Eggs throughout the resort, and when viewing the “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” look for the six hidden Mickeys on the projections.

Pixar Fest manages to include all of the films. It was a daunting task but those who created it are excited to share the fun with guests, and most likely guests will experience this event several times before it closes in August. Whatever film or character is your favorite (as if you could chose one favorite!) the festival is all inclusive. Say “hi” to Sully for me. And give Luca a big “hello” when you see him. Perhaps Russell will show you his badges. Look for Joy and Sadness, and maybe you can cheer her up a bit. Maybe not, but it’s worth trying. She’s so darn adorable.

Toy Story (1995)
A Bug’s Life (1998)
Toy Story 2 (1999)
Monsters, Inc. (2001)
Finding Nemo (2003)
The Incredibles (2004)
Cars (2006)
Ratatouille (2007)
Wall-E (2008)
Up (2009)
Toy Story 3 (2010)
Cars 2 (2011)
Brave (2012)
Monsters University (2013)
Inside Out (2015)
The Good Dinosaur (2015)
Finding Dory (2016)
Cars 3 (2017)
Coco (2017)
Incredibles 2 (2018)
Toy Story 4 (2019)
Onward (2020)
Soul (2020)
Luca (2021)
Turning Red (2022)
Lightyear (2022)
Elemental (2023)

Upcoming Feature films

Inside Out 2 (2024)
Elio (scheduled for 2025)
Toy Story 5 (scheduled for 2026)

This is an event Pixar fans have been craving. And it’s here now! Enjoy all your favorite characters through shows, interactions, food, mementos, merchandise, and fun at the Disneyland Resort. My favorite? Hmm. Well, I thoroughly enjoyed the “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!,” and I also loved the energy at “Club Pixar,” however the “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” is always a great way to end a day at the resort, and I can’t leave out the food. So let’s just say, it’s hard to chose a favorite part of Pixar Fest. It’s Incredible (no pun intended.)

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 32 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.

Neven Eyewear sunglasses offer great deals

Posted on April 24, 2024 by Francine Brokaw

Neven sunglasses are a unique gift for someone or just because you want an extra pair of sunglasses for yourself. They are lightweight so they don’t add weight to your nose, and they are polarized for the best viewing and ease on your eyes.

With a large variety of styles and colors, as well as many with colored lenses, there is a style for everyone. There is also a selection of Blue Light clear glasses to wear when you’re sitting at your computer all day, giving your eyes some much-needed rest from the computer screen. While many tablet screen protectors have blue light models, laptops and desktops usually do not have eye protection from blue light. So a pair of lightweight glasses might be just what your eyes need to ease strain.

Neven offers a selection of glasses especially designed for the sportsmen or sportswomen – whether for fishing, motorcycle riding, boating, or whatever.

It’s always a good idea to have a spare pair of sunglasses to keep in the car or just around the house. The variety of styles makes it fun to change glasses to fit your mood.

Besides being lightweight, Neven Eyewear has a policy if you lose your glasses or break them, the company will replace them for free. And there is a “buy one, get two for free” deal. How’s that for cost cutting? Also, purchases made on a Saturday or Sunday get a gift with purchase.

About the author

Francine Brokaw writes about products, books, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites.

Bring home ‘The Tiger’s Apprentice’ on Digital and DVD

Posted on April 23, 2024April 23, 2024 by Francine Brokaw

The Tiger’s Apprentice is an entertaining story based on Laurence Yep’s children’s book series. Although there are scenes of violence, this is a film meant for the entire family to enjoy.

Teenager Tom Lee is a Chinese-American living with his grandmother in San Francisco. What he doesn’t know is that she is the Guardian of the Phoenix. This stone has the power to destroy humanity or keep it safe.

When the evil Loo appears to take control of the Phoenix with her dark magic, Tom’s grandmother sends him off with the Phoenix in the care of Hu. Unfortunately, she is killed and it is now up to Hu to save him from Loo. But just is Hu?

Hu is a tiger and one of the 12 Zodiac warriors who have helped the Guardians over the centuries. Each of the warriors has human forms as well as their mythical animal forms. They must now help Tom when he comes up against the evil Loo who is intent on getting the Phoenix and destroying the world. She uses her magical umbrella to capture the warriors one by one. The main lesson imparted to him by his grandmother is to use his heart and head, not his hands. Spoiler alert: Tom is successful in destroying Loo and saving the Phoenix and humanity.

Tom must learn how to be a guardian but without his grandmother, this task is now up to the 12 Zodiac warriors, with Hu being his main teacher and friend. Along with the intense action, there are plenty of cute and funny aspects to this film. The movie is colorful and the imagery is amazing.

As stated earlier, there is plenty of violence however as Tom takes on his new role of Guardian, he matures and changes from the geeky teen to a confident hero, even though this story takes place in a relatively short period of time. Viewers will quickly be drawn into this magical story from the beginning scene.

Additional features on Digital (availability of bonus content varies by digital retailer) and DVD:

The Power of the 12
The Tiger’s Troupe: The Epic Cast
From Apprentice to Hero
The Magic of Chinatown

The movie originally ran on Paramount+. It will be available to everyone on digital May 14, 2024 and on DVD May 28.

The Tiger’s Apprentice is rated PG for action/violence, thematic elements, some language and suggestive references. Due to the death of Tom’s grandmother and many references to departed souls, this might be upsetting to those who are sensitive to this subject.

About the Author

‘Cash Out’ stars John Travolta

Posted on April 22, 2024April 19, 2024 by Francine Brokaw

John Travolta is back on the big screen with his latest movie Cash Out. In this film Travolta stars as Mason, the leader of a group of thieves that target the rich and powerful. His group consists of brother Shawn (Lukas Haas), their tech genius Link (Natali Yura), Anton (Quavo), and Hector (Noel Gugliemi) and they work together like a well-oiled machine.

After his latest caper – with his team and girlfriend Amelia Decker (Kirstin Davis) – goes a little off script, Mason retires to a quiet life. Then months later his knucklehead brother wrangles him back to help with a super duper heist. This bank heist promises a big score, but without Mason to get all the scoop and plan the scheme, Shawn mismanages the entire heist which goes awry from the start. To say Shawn is a screw-up is an understatement. But Mason comes in to save the day, and their hides.

Mason is always cool and collected. His calm manner along with his quick thinking makes the story enjoyable. He sees every outcome before anything happens.

With hostages in the bank, the FBI send in a negotiator who happens to be Amelia, Mason’s former lover who is actually an FBI agent. With his team and a group of hostages inside the bank, Amelia tries to negotiate a way for Mason to save face and his life.

Then SWAT and Interpol are brought into the mix. The owner of the object of what Shawn originally intended to steal, is a world-known billionaire bad guy. He pulls strings around the world on a whim. So now that Mason realizes what they are up against, his brilliant mind shifts into high gear quickly to find a way out of this mess.

As audiences wonder if Amelia’s love affair with Mason was just a way to get inside his team or was it real? Is her heart with the FBI or with Mason?

This is an intriguing plot with Travolta and Davis playing out their stories as the tension rises. Who will be the winner of this high-stakes heist? Will anyone come out alive?

Mason is the man anyone would want in their corner. He’s sensitive, cunning, brilliant, and even lovable, even when he’s holding a gun.

This is a true action film and a good role for Travolta. The story holds your attention from start to finish. It is one of the most enjoyable new films to hit theaters so far this year.

Cash Out opens in theaters and is available VOD on April 26, 2024. It is rated R for language.

About the Author

‘How Disney Built America’ on History

Posted on April 21, 2024April 22, 2024 by Francine Brokaw

As part of the History Channel’s series The Mega-Brands That Build America, the spotlight turns to Walt Disney. How Disney Built America looks at the genesis of the Disney company.

Episode One

Beginning with the birth of Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, Walt Disney turned animated shorts from just fillers into actual entertainment. For Walt, the initial design was all about the ears. Sound familiar? Well, when the Oswald shorts became popular, Walt Disney’s business reached a climax. He could either stay with the studio or keep Oswald. Apparently, according to his contract, Disney did not own Oswald. So, what did this enterprising and talented man do? He came up with another character and the rest is history. Kind of…

Mickey Mouse was going to be called Mortimer Mouse, but thanks to Walt’s wife Lillian, a more fun-loving and personable name was decided on. Ub Iwerks, the lead animator, began drawing the iconic mouse who soon took off as a relatable animated character.

Then Walt decided to do something completely different for an animated animal. He made him talk, whistle, and added sound effects. But how he did this was a feat unto itself. His creative genius overtook the way The Jazz Singer was created, where the sound was on a different recording than the video. Walt came up with a way to add the correct sound to the video itself. And the rest is history. Kind of…

There was even more for the Disney brothers. Roy, the business man of the two, and Walt, the creative brother, soon had their own studio and were off and running.

Walt initially supplied the voice of Mickey. Walt and Mickey were almost inseparable, figuratively and literally. Their personas were linked forever. As the world changed, Mickey provided not only entertainment, but a positive outlook through the depression and hard times. Walt was insistent Mickey always remained a good guy. So to add some conflict, Donald Duck was born. Then gradually more and more of the characters we know today joined Mickey and the Disney family.

The Disney empire was started by a mouse, after a rabbit was jettisoned from Walt’s control. Oswald can still be found in various Disney locations, including Disney California Adventure in Anaheim, California. But it is Mickey who is the iconic character and his outline is recognized worldwide.

From the Mickey shorts came the first animated feature with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. And the rest is history. Kind of…

Animated films are part of American cinema and the characters are embedded in American culture. And world wide culture for that matter. What Walt Disney did was give America entertainment, hope, enjoyment, and a lot of laughs and smiles, with a few tears here and there, all through animation. The Disney brand is synonymous with entertainment. And it’s all thanks to a mouse. Well, actually, it’s all thanks to the foresight, intelligence, and creativity of Walt Disney.

That’s what the first episode covers. There are six episodes in all. How Disney Built America premieres April 28, 2024 on the History Channel. The next episode, airing May 5, focuses on Walt’s determination to make a full-length animated feature. His genius turned animation into an art form and he invented the multi-plane camera and instituted animation training. Walt was the first to use storyboards, which are a must in today’s world of not only animated films but also live-action movies as well. The series concludes June 9.

The History channel is available on various services. The series is also available to stream the next day on The HISTORY Channel app, history.com, and across major TV providers’ VOD platforms. It will also be available to own on Amazon Prime Video or wherever you purchase your favorite series.

About the Author

Image courtesy HISTORY

Patriotism is on display during this energizing and entertaining concert

Posted on April 18, 2024April 18, 2024 by Francine Brokaw

If you thought patriotism was dead, think again. The God Bless America concert by the Millennial Choirs & Orchestras highlights the freedoms and history of the United States of America. With patriotic songs as well as historical hymns, this concert proves that America is loved and cherished.

The choirs consist of all ages, from youngsters, to seniors and all those in between. They come out in groups and periodically they are all there along with the orchestra.

When they sing about “Paul Revere’s Ride” the little ones are front and center on the stage wearing their three pointed hats. The cuteness factor is through the roof with these little ones.

As the concert progresses, they sing about being Americans, George Washington, the War of Independence, and the beautiful red, white and blue flag. They also sing a song most of us know without the music, “I Pledge Allegiance.”

There are some religious moments as on the screen above the orchestra are images of George Washington kneeling in prayer, Joseph Smith founding the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Mormons), and beautiful images of the country and the history that show how the people pull together in times of crisis and unite in times of joy.

Ending with an interesting rendition of “God Bless America,” the audience is treated to the ensemble paying their heartfelt tribute to the country.

The Millennial Choirs & Orchestras are located in several states, and welcome musicians and singers of all ages. To find out more about this inspiring program, check out their website.

Founded in 2007, Millennial® Choirs & Orchestras (MCO®) consists of over 5,000 participants in California, Arizona, Texas, Utah, Idaho, and Kansas City.

MCO participation is offered in these locations:

Arizona (East Valley)
California (Orange County)
Idaho (Boise)
Kansas City
Texas (Austin)
Texas (Dallas)
Utah (Utah Valley)

For those interested in joining the choirs, they include the Young Singers Chorus (Age 4 – 1st grade), the Children’s Chorus (2nd-5th grades), The Youth Chorus (6th-8th grades), the Concert Choir (9th -12th grades), the Millennial Chorus (advanced ensemble), and the Grand Chorus (accomplished singers 18 and older). And musicians are welcome to audition for the orchestra.