Air Fryers are becoming a staple in kitchens. Frying and baking without oil is the healthier way to create meals for your family. When I was offered the opportunity to test the Uber Appliance Air Fryer, I decided to try it. This was my first experience with an Air Fryer.

This Uber Appliance Air Fryer is attractive and easy to use with a touch panel on the front as well as seven pre-sets: Fries, Shrimp, Bake, Chicken, Chips, Fish, Defrost and Steak. Selecting the time to cook and the temperature is simply a matter of touching the up and down buttons.

What I discovered is there is a slight learning curve when cooking food. But it is easy to learn and if you start with shorter cooking times and then add on if your food is not to your desired outcome, that is the best rather than overcooking.

This particular unit is 3.7 quarts, which is fine for one to four people. If you have a larger family, think about getting a larger capacity unit, however if you just want to dip your toes in the Air Fryer market, this is a good way to start.

So, what did I begin my Air Frying experience with? Many people say they begin by air frying fries. I selected frozen veggie patties. I usually cook them on a frying pan so I thought this would be a good comparison. After adding some sauce to the patties then placing them (this small unit was large enough to take 4 patties!) in the basket, I selected 360 degrees for the temperature and 5 minutes baking time. After five minutes (the unit beeped to tell me the time had been reached) I looked at the patties then restarted the unit for another 3 minutes. After 8 minutes the 4 burger patties were cooked and, in all honesty, my family said they preferred this way of making the burgers than my old way. That is a testament in itself.

The experience was easy and the unit is easy to clean. The basket and strainer can be placed in the dishwasher. There is a little recipe booklet that comes along with the air fryer however I will be creating my own recipes. This is a fun way to try new things. I definitely like air-frying fries. Without the oil in deep fried foods like fries, the healthier option is air frying.

If you already have a larger capacity air fryer, think about getting a small one in addition to that. It is good for RVs and smaller areas, and if you cook larger items in your large air fryer, you can cook your side dishes in the smaller one.

The bottom line is I think air frying is a good way to create healthier meals. This Uber Appliance Air Fryer is a great new addition to my kitchen. While this one is 3.7 quarts, they do make larger units

Price: Starting at $99.99

Available: uberappliance.com, Bed Bath & Beyond, WayFair, Amazon, and more.

About the Reviewer

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. 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. Follow her on Twitter.

Southern California company Southnorte has created some delicious selections for margarita and unique cocktail lovers. Yes, these canned beverages do contain alcohol so they are not for those under 21, however even though National Margarita Day has come and gone, it’s still time to grab your cans to celebrate Cinco De Mayo or just enjoy with your dinner.

The company has crafted the beverages with the flavors of Mexico and from now until April 4, 2023 the following varieties will be available at local Stater Bros. in Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Diego, and the Inland Empire in Southern California.

So what varieties can you indulge in this spring? How about Paloma, Mexican Mule, and Matador and, of course, the mainstay in Mexico, the Margarita.  Crafted with premium tequila and orange liqueur, real lime juice, and agave syrup, there are no artificial flavores or ingredients. They are rich, smooth, and fizzy and ready made.

The Matador combines the tequila with pineapple, lime and club soda (hence the fizz), and is a refreshing libation. The Paloma mixes the tequila with red grapefruit and lemon-lime soda. It’s another refreshing concoction. The Mexican Mule has a kick (no pun intended) with tequila, ginger beer with lime, mint, and a touch of jalapeno. And the margarita is, well, a fizzy margarita.

With all of these cocktails premixed in easy-to-open cans, they are the perfect addition to any outdoor bar-be-que or get-together. Just chill them and they’re ready to drink.

Check their website for the locations offering the unique beverages. And yes, they were supplied to me for the reason of reviewing the quality and taste.

Of course, we definitely want to stress these are for ADULTS ONLY. Please drink responsibility.

About the Reviewer

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. 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. Follow her on Twitter.

Red Toolbox’s Tasty Jr. line of interactive toys has some fun new products that will have kids creating donuts and serving up coffee just like grown ups. Let’s face it, many of us drive through the coffee houses all the time for our caffeine fix, or we create our own at home with one of the coffee makers on the market. And who drives past a Duncan Donut shop (or Krispy Kreme) and mentions how good a donut would be right now? Well, little kids catch on quickly to our everyday habits and now they have their own products to be just like mom or dad.

The Red Toolbox Tasty Jr. Donut Shop Set consists of a donut maker, several donuts, and a little cart to transport donuts. What makes this so much fun for kids is the fact the unit talks, has fun sounds, push buttons, and colorful decorations for their pretend donuts. Unfortunately these delicious looking treats are only for pretend, but if they were real they would definitely be delectable. Gather their stuffed animals and dolls around for a fun little party. With eight donuts included in the set, there is enough for a fun tea party or get together with pretend friends.For ages 3+, this cute and colorful set lists for $39.99. This unit requires 3 AA batteries which are not included.

And next time mom or dad pops a pod into a coffee maker or brews a delicious cup of java, kids can join in as well. With the Red Toolbox Tasty Jr. Coffee Maker Set kids can play barista in their own home. This pretend espresso machine might not brew up a real cup of joe, but for kids it is just as nice. There are lights and sounds and buttons to push for the perfect cup of coffee. And it really does spew out liquid. Fill the dispenser with water, place the pod into the machine, turn it on and voila – a nice cup of espresso. Unfortunately this isn’t real. The only thing this machine is missing is the scent of freshly made coffee.

For ages 3+ the coffee maker set lists for $27.99. It comes with 2 batteries.

About the Reviewer

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. 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. Follow her on Twitter.

When I first learned about the Draft Top tool I thought this was made for me. I’m one of those people who inevitably spill when drinking from a can. I turn to a straw or a cup to avoid messes. Yes, I am a messy can drinker. But that problem has been solved!

I was sent a Draft Top to test and I can honestly say it lives up to the hype. It is a simple to use tool that easily removes the top of a can thus turning it into its own drinking vessel. Yep, you read correctly. After placing the tool correctly on the top of a can, with a minimal amount of pressure on the levers and a few simple twists, the top is seamlessly removed. And the opening of the can is smooth and easy to use as a cup in itself.

These days people are concerned with saving the planet by using less plastic. So the Draft Top eliminates the need for plastic straws. Plus, if you normally pour your drink into a throwaway plastic cup, that is eliminated as well.

I love flavored cola. When the top is removed there is plenty of room to squeeze a lemon to make lemon cola, or add chocolate syrup for a chocolate cola. (If you haven’t tried these, you’re missing some good drinks.) And once some of the liquid has been consumed, it is easy to add an ice cube or two to cool down the soda or whatever is in the can.

This handy tool can be used for soda cans, juice cans, and alcoholic beverage cans. It is safe to handle however keep little fingers away as the blade can be a source for trouble when it comes to kids and their curiosity.

Think about taking this tool to the beach and eliminating the need to bring cups. Or if you’re having a party this also makes things easier for guests.

 

By turning the cans with the flip top into a rimless can, it is therefore turned into a vessel that is easy to drink from and doesn’t require additional tools  – like straws or cups.

These make great hostess gifts as well as unique thank-you gifts. At $24.99 you just might want to get a couple for yourself.

So, the bottom line is this is a tool that I will be using often and one I will be giving as gifts. I think when they designed this they were thinking of all of us who end up spilling when drinking from a can, whether it is from the opening or the liquid that has gathered in the groove. You know what I mean.

Before using the Draft Top I suggest washing the can first, just as you should when drinking from a flip top. It’s just common sense for cleanliness.

About the Reviewer

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. 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. Follow her on Twitter.

For years families have enjoyed the Elf on the Shelf book and Elf himself. This little fellow always managed to move to a different location during the night. When kids woke up they had the task of locating where in the world – or in the house – the little Elf rested. Year after year families would be entertained by the Elf on the Shelf, making it a tradition to look forward to every December. Now there are new and more ways to enjoy the happy little guys from the North Pole.

First came the Scout Elf with his or her storybook. Now there is a cute and cuddly Plushee Pal, in a girl or a boy. The face on this little plush Elf is adorable. If it doesn’t put a smile on your face then nothing will. He/she is so sweet and like the original Scout Elf, the Plushee Pal Elf can sit on shelves, tables, chairs, and because they are so soft, they make great sleeping pals. The Plushee Pals are somewhat larger than the Scout Elves, and easier for tiny hands to hold.

Not only are the Plushee Pals a new way to enjoy the fellows from up North, but there are now new ways to enjoy the Scout Elves as well. Yes, not only do the Scout Elves sit on shelves and magically change locations during the night (thanks moms and dads), but also they can now be dressed in various outfits for decorating or just playing with in a new way. There are several outfits for these elves so whether you have a boy or a girl, there is some cute attire that will add to their enjoyment.

For instance, by attaching plastic legs and dressing the Elf in an apron and hat, and securing the tray to his/her body, the Scout Elf now becomes a chef who holds a tray of cocoa and treats. With no small children in your house, you can use this adorable item to decorate your kitchen. The Elf adds a touch of whimsy to any kitchen while at the same time bringing some festivity to the house

 

And to add to these new clothing options for the Elf, are some cute Insta-Moment Pop-Up backgrounds so creating special settings for your Elf is also an option. And yes, there is more. The Elves now have Elf Pets. A reindeer, a fox, a St. Bernard are other ways to add to the Elf fun.

It never ends, and just using the Elf at holiday time is now a thing of the past. These little guys are now all-year items that bring the quaintness and enjoyment of the holiday tradition to the family the entire year. Your Elf can now enjoy the sun and sand of a beach weekend. Or he/she can spend time at a salon or camping out in the mountains.

With the various outfits and scenarios available for the Elf, he will be a beloved addition to any child’s toy chest. Imaginations will run rampant with the fun of these little fellows.

 

So now, it’s time to decide which Elf is right for your family: Plushee boy, Plushee girl, Scout boy, Scout girl, what color skin, what outfit(s) and Pop-Ups, which animal friend, etc. Choices, choices, choices. Why not choose several? This is truly a fun product (and something I personally highly recommend).

 

About the Reviewer

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. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books, 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. Follow her on Twitter.

If you’re looking for something unique, fun, and useful, look no further. The Banana Phone fits the bill. Plus, when you purchase one you will also be helping to conserver the gorilla population. I kid you not. This is an inventive little gadget that really works.

The folks at Banana Phone have come up with the perfect gift for the holidays, birthdays, or just because. So, what exactly is a Banana Phone? It’s simply an adjunct to your cell phone. Once charged, this device can link up via Bluetooth on you cell phone. Then it’s ready to use.

The plastic banana has a speaker, a microphone, a micro USB port for charging, a multifunction button, and a volume up and a volume down button. How simple is that?

To pair the Banana Phone to your smart phone, simply charge the banana and then open the Bluetooth menu on your smart phone. Click on Banana Phone option on your cell phone and instantly the banana is synched to your smart phone. When you want to make a call, double click the multifunction button and say, “call Fred” (or anyone else you want to call). The Banana Phone calls Fred (or anyone else you asked it to call). It’s simple. It’s useful. And it’s fun.

With the voice activation you can easily send and receive messages just like you would on your smart phone without the screen. The messages are vocalized in the same way. It’s simply an extension of your smart phone. And, if you want to check the weather in Miami, simply double click the Multifunction button and ask Siri (or your voice connection) about it. Anything your voice activation can do on your smart phone, the Banana Phone can do.

And, to answer a call, click the Multifunction button once and you’re connected. Also, if you don’t want to talk to the caller, all you have to do is hold down the Multifunction button and you won’t be disturbed.

This Banana Phone is a great conversation starter. Imagine having it in your bag (along with your smart phone) when you are at a party. Then pull it out and call a friend. You’ll have everyone staring at you, and smiling. This is a fun little phone that is useful as well as brings some happy to those who use it. And another fun aspect is the Multifunction button also plays music.

Now, the second reason to purchase this fun little item, besides the reasons mentioned above, is the conservation aspect. I adore monkeys and gorillas of all kinds. Just look at my plush animals collection!

The company has joined with Gearing up for Gorillas to help save the gorilla population. The company donates 1% of their sales to gorilla conservation.

The three founders of the company originally began with a crowdfunding campaign in 2017 and it immediately caught the attention of people around the world. And if this sounds familiar, yes, they did take the Banana Phone to Shark Tank.

The goal of the company is to inspire people to talk more, smile more, and save the gorillas.

The Banana Phone is rechargeable. Talk time is about 20 hours and idle time is approximately 120 hours.

I was sent this little unit to test for review. When I opened the box and pulled out the Banana Phone, I immediately thought it was a cool device. Then when I started using it, I was hooked. It’s fun and makes a great gift. And don’t we all need a little more fun in our lives?

Do I like the Banana Phone? Absolutely. Do I recommend it? Absolutely.

About the Reviewer

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. 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. Follow her on Twitter.

 

It’s the time of year when everyone is shopping for holiday gifts. Let’s face it, the holidays are centered on children with all the fun and festivities. So after the house is decorated, the gifts are wrapped, and parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc., are worn out, why not celebrate with some delicious bubbly? We deserve it.

Pommery wines are the product of Madame Pommery. Her 1874 Brut was highly respected. The current creations are deserving of the great name. Founded in 1857 this winery has continued to produce some fine wines.

Champagne Pommery’s new world collection: the Mandala Boxes, Cuvée Louise 2005 ($224.99), or Cuvée Louise Brut Nature 2006 ($244.99).

In various traditions, Mandalas are employed as a guidance tool, and these in particular are inspired by the universe and serve as an aid to meditation. Unlock your spiritual path and discover the journey of the creation of Pommery Champagne with the stunning Mandala Gift Boxes available in Brut Royal ($51.99), Brut Rosé Royal ($64.99), Blanc de Blancs ($65.99), and Grand Cru Royal Millésimé 2009 ($74.99).  

Cuvée Louise was inspired by the personality of its founder, Madame Jeanne-Alexandrine Louise Pommery. It begins in a specially reserved vineyard and is a blend of three Grand Crus, the majority of which is Chardonnay. It is then placed in the cellars where it is allowed to age and develop, slowly and naturally. The result is elegant champagne with a velvety, creamy texture with a delicate flavor with incredible harmony and minerality.

Cuvée Louise Brut Nature is the purest and most authentic expression of the great terroirs it derives from. It is reserved for the most exceptional vintages which permit a refined vision of Louise with their richness and perfect harmony. With its minerality and incomparable flavors, Cuvée Louise Nature 2006 is a confidential cuvée created with the absence of dosage.

Having tested one sample, I can say that the Pommery Brut Royal Rose is wonderful. It’s full of essence and a light yet full flavored juicy Rose.

So, why not celebrate the holidays with something new? And for a last-minute gift, these might fit the bill.

Also, remember that New Year’s is coming soon. Is it 2023 already? Where do the years go?

So pop a cork and celebrate.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw  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.  Follow her on Twitter.

If you are looking for an alternate ring to wear on a cruise, to a ballgame, or just to enjoy without worrying about it being lost or stolen, look no further. Starlette Galleria has some great stand-ins for your expensive rings.

 

Founded by Olivia Starling, these hypoallergenic rings are great for engagements, weddings, and everyday. I have no compunction about replacing my wedding ring with a CZ alternative when traveling, and this one I just received is sparkling and beautiful.

Yes, I did receive this complimentary ring from the company to review should I feel it is worthy of my readers purchasing. And yes, I do love it.

 

The rings feature simulated diamonds (AAA CZ) set in 925 Sterling Silver and plated in either rhodium or 14k gold. This means they look more expensive that they are and they won’t tarnish. It bothers me when I want to wear a ring and it is tarnished. Who wants to polish their jewelry all the time? Plus, the rings won’t turn your finger green.

Losing one of these Starlette rings won’t bring on a lot of regret, although I still would not want to lose it. The jewelry is only a tiny fraction of the price compared to high end jewelry.

With the price of gold these days, it is out-of-reach for many people. Even if you can afford that beautiful ring you have had your eye on for the past year, the Starlette rings will add some sparkle to your jewelry collection. And switching off from one design to another is fun and affordable.

 

Out of the group of complimentary rings I was offered, I selected the Eliza. It is a dainty yet substantial two-piece set. The center stone is not too large. I wanted something believable. And the set can be worn either as one single ring or a double, with a thin band nesting into the main ring.

 

There are many selections as well as price points. Maybe the kids would like to pull their money and order a sparkling ring for Mother’s Day,  a birthday, or the holidays. Wow. What an amazing present to open.

It is worth checking out the line of rings from Starlette Galleria. They have other jewelry too.

 

About the Reviewer

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. 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. Follow her on Twitter.

 

 

 

Bluejay E-bikes has just introduced their second model – Bluejay Sport to go along with the Premier Edition model. These bikes are comfortable and very attractive.

The company invited me on a media ride to get acquainted with these bikes and I did enjoy the ride. I rode the Premier Edition with is a step-through model making it easier for those of us with, let’s just say knee problems. The new Sport model was designed for more off-road rides, although it is still a good city bike.

The battery on these bikes supplies a good push even when it is set to the lowest level. When the level is increased (which I did when going up a hill) the motor makes uphill peddling a breeze. The motor kicks in as soon as the pedal is engaged, so there is no awkward starting point. As they explained to me before I began my ride, it’s like having someone giving the bike a little assist – similar to when you learned to ride. I remember those days. My dad would run alongside my bike holding on until he thought I was capable of riding by myself. It worked, and the motor on the Bluejay works too, to make that takeoff and ride fun and easy.

The seat was very comfortable as were the handle grips. The information is displayed on an easy-to-read screen, and with the 75-mile battery life, this is one bike that can easily go several days when out for little jaunts.

 

Okay, let’s get down to the best part – the colors! Haha.  The colors are beautiful. The Sport model has some attractive matte colors and the Premier model has shiny paint. No matter which color you like, these are the best looking e-bikes I have ever seen.

Families will enjoy the easy-to-attach child seat as well as the comfy child buggy. These are not made specifically by Bluejay but are available for these bikes. You can even double up with a child seat on the rear of the bike and tow the buggy. Taking your family out for a ride in the park, by the beach, or just around the neighborhood is easier now with E-bikes. And for those peddling, well, let’s just say the ride got a lot smoother and less demanding.

 

I could get into more specifics about the Bluejay but it’s better if you check them out for yourself. To find a retailer near you to get detailed information, purchase or test drive, check here.

About the Reviewer

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. 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. Follow her on Twitter.

Oral hygiene is important. If you’re like me you usually have a toothbrush with you when you’re going to be out all day. But when it comes down to it, are the travel toothbrushes safe and clean? Doctor Plotka’s is an all-in-one foldable toothbrush that easily fits into a pocket, gym bag, purse, or backpack.

These foldable toothbrushes (invented by a dentist) are infused with silver to eliminate 99% of bacteria on the bristles, according to the website. The bristles are also positioned to clean at the gums and between teeth. They’re not floss but they do clean well. The bristles are thin to reach between teeth and into crevices. The company sent me some samples and I like the fact that they are antimicrobial.

If you work in an office and drink coffee, tea, soda, or snack at your desk, it is a good idea to keep a toothbrush handy. Brushing after drinking helps with oral hygiene. And it’s always a good idea to brush after lunch. This handy little toothbrush easily stores in a desk drawer without having to keep a separate pouch for it.

And teens in school definitely need to have a toothbrush in their lockers. For students with braces it is a must. When your mouth is fresh and clean you feel fresh and clean.

Long plane rides are another time when this foldable toothbrush comes in handy. With the tiny travel size toothpastes, the two items take up almost no space.

For travel, work, school, or whenever, this is a handy item. It’s never too young to start an oral hygiene habit. Keeping teeth clean and healthy is much easier – and way less expensive – than dealing with oral problems later in life.

About the Reviewer

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. 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. Follow her on Twitter.