Wednesday, June 30, 2010

If you like my FREEBIES and think FREE is SEXY... VOTE FOR ME!

OK, the SEXY part may be over the top, but I did read that with the economy, FREE is the new SEXY.

Now that I have your attention, some very nice FREEISMYLIFE readers have nominated my blog for a 2010 BlogHer BlogLuxe award in the category "BLOGS I HAVE LEARNED THE MOST FROM".

I am very grateful and honored that readers voted to bring some national recognition to my blog.



So if you also like my freebies, please VOTE FOR ME.

To keep down voter irregularities (no hanging chads or evil bots allowed), the voting committee will send you an email that you need to click on to prove you are a human.

You can vote once per day and voting ends on July 12th. Thanks for your support

FREE Admission to the Henry Ford Museum 7/16 courtesy of Target


July 16. Target offers admission to Henry Ford Museum at no charge! Enjoy live music, hands-on activities and more.


Target Family Day

Come to the Henry Ford Museum for live music, dramatic presentations, make and take activities and much more in Henry Ford Museum. Thanks to the generosity of Target, admission to the Museum and parking are free during Target Family Days. Explore the greatest collection ever assembled documenting the American Experience.

Come on Friday, July 16, 2010 for Free Admission to Henry Ford Museum and fun Activities

-Live musical performances
-Make and Take Activities
-Play in our oversized interactive “Play” exhibit
-Free giveaways! (My Fav)

Mark your calendars. Free admission to the Henry Ford Museum only happens three times per year.

Enjoy!


The Henry Ford
20900 Oakwood Blvd.
Dearborn, MI 48124-5029

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FREE Lowes Build & Grow Workshop Saturday 7/10

Ball and Cup Game Saturday

This classic toy is as much fun to build as it is to play with!

Bring your child in on Saturday, July 10, 2010 to build this cool toy. Click here sign up.

Enjoy!

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

MOVIE REVIEW: The Twilight Saga: Eclipse

Guest Blogger Liz Parker is back from her advance screening of the movie "Eclipse".

Let's see what she th
inks of the latest film in the Twilight saga ....


I have seen the first two "Twilight saga" movies, and while I really liked the first one ("Twilight"), I was a little disappointed by the second ("New Moon"). I have also read all four of the original books by Stephenie Meyer, but I try to treat the movies as separate entities from the books; after all, they are "based" on the books, not 100% the same as them. Going into "Eclipse," then, I was expecting a lot, because this is the first book in the series that really delves deeper into the characters. Luckily, I was not disappointed.

Bella (Kristen Stewart, "The Runaways) is on the cusp of graduating from Forks High School, and she wants Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson, "Remember Me") to turn her into a vampire after graduation. Edward, however, wants Bella to marry him first. Meanwhile, a vampire army is assembling in Seattle, led by the evil Victoria (a casting change - now played by Bryce Dallas Howard, "Spider-Man 3"), who wants to enact revenge on the Cullens, specifically Edward, for killing her mate, James. The werewolves, especially Jacob (Taylor Lautner, "Valentine's Day") and the vampires must unite for Bella's safety, and battle the vampire army together.

One of the things I really liked about this movie was that it delved into the Cullens' backgrounds. We learn that Rosalie (Nikki Reed, "New Moon") never actually chose to become a vampire, and she wants Bella to have that choice. Also, Jasper (Jackson Rathbone, "The Last Airbender") used to be a soldier in the Civil War, before a woman vampire "turned him." Rosalie and Jasper were vampires that, until this "Twilight" installment, had never had many scenes, and it was interesting to learn more about their past. There is also a decent helping of Taylor Lautner shirtless—the first time such instance elicited squeals and claps from the mostly female audience. There are a lot of action scenes, and I was actually surprised by how violent the film was for a PG-13-rated movie.

I would say Yes, see this movie—if and only if you've seen the first two movies or have read the books. "Eclipse" doesn't explain or recap the first two movies, so it would be confusing for if you came in cold. Guys will like the action scenes between the werewolves, Cullens, and the vampire army, so for them I give this movie a "Maybe"; and for those that are definitely not "Twihards," I would say don't see it—or, if you want to, watch "Twilight" and "New Moon" first. My overall rating is a "Yes," however, because I greatly enjoyed "Eclipse," and it might actually be my favorite out of the three "Twilight" movies that have been released so far.

"The Twilight Saga: Eclipse" will be released in theaters on June 30th.


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Liz Parker is a 2009 graduate of the University of Michigan. She currently works as an Assistant Medical Editor for a pathology website. Visit her at her movie blog Yes/No Films.

COUPON: BOGO FREE Entrée at Andiamo - ENDS 7/31

It's BACK! The BOGO Coupon at Andiamo

Buy One Entrée at Andiamo and Receive One Entrée of Equal or Lesser Value Free with Coupon

Maximum value of $10 off Lunch Entrée and $20 off Dinner Entrée

Click here for coupon

Enjoy!

Offer valid 07/01/2010 thru 07/31/2010 at any Andiamo Restaurant and Mesquite Creek. Offer valid for parties of ten or less. Must provide server with one printed voucher for each complimentary meal. No separate checks please. Each guest must purchase a beverage. Dine-in only. May not be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount, or when ordering from promotional menus. Mille Grazie Dollars and Costco Gift Cards may not be redeemed in conjunction with this offer.

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Website Review: Crazy Coupon Mommy



Crazy Coupon Mommy:


Anyone that has been reading FREEISMYLIFE for a while knows that I LOVE finding freebies, but couponing is not really my thing. I love for my deals to start out FREE without me having to do much else.

I have always been in awe of the couponing moms who price match with double and triple coupon deals and end up walking out of the store with a shopping cart full of groceries that cost under $10. So when I got a chance to review the Crazy Coupon Mommy website, I thought it would be a good extension to even more deals for all my FREEISMYLIFE readers.

The Crazy Coupon Mommy website was created by Jeana S. the mother of a 7 month old baby boy named Whistler (who is named after Jeana's favorite ski destination). Jeana and her family live in Southern California and she has been blogging for 8 months. She got into couponing to help with the family budget, and from there, ended up starting her own couponing website.

The Searchable Coupon Database is awesome!
One of the things that I hate about using coupons is having to search them out on each store's website or in store circulars. So, my favorite part of the Crazy Coupon Mommy website is the Coupon Database where you can search for coupons by item or store.

Jeana does weekly store coupon match-ups for lots of stores including Target, CVS, Walgreens and Rite Aid. My favorite store is Target, so I did a search and found over 20 Target coupons in the database. I also did a search on CVS and found 9 coupons. The Coupon Database is great because it saves you time and energy by having links to all the coupons in one spot. Saving time and energy is a wonderful thing for a mom.

Crazy Coupon Mommy loves Freebies too!
I think that everyone knows by now my love of freebies. Well so does Crazy Coupon Mommy which has the Crazy Big Freebies List and also a list of Baby Related Big Freebies just for you parents with little ones.

HUGE July Giveaway Month
During the month of July, Jeana will have a giveaway every day for 31 days on her website including a giveaway for a Flip SlideHD Video camera. So mark your calendars for July 1st and click here to find out more about this exciting month of giveaways.


Disclosure: I was compensated for my time to review the Crazy Coupon Mommy website

CONTEST: Win a 1 Year Membership to Detroit Children's Museum DEADLINE 6/30


Win a 1 year Membership to the Detroit Children's Musuem courtesy of MetroParent Magazine

The Detroit Children's Musuem celebrated it's grand re-opening this past weekend with a FREE block party, activities, and planearium shows.  How about having that experience anytime you want? 


Go on over to the Metro Parent website to enter a contest for a chance to win an annual memebership to the Detroit Children's Musuem.


Hurry!  The contest ends on Wednesday, June 30th, 2010.

Enjoy!

Monday, June 28, 2010

FREE Rockin' on the Riverfront Series with Dave Mason 7/16 8pm

Rocker Dave Mason
Andiamo Detroit presents FREE "Rockin' on the Riverfront Series" for the Fifth Summer

Dave Mason kicks off the free classic rock concert series on July16th

Get ready to rock the 'D' this summer with Andiamo Detroit Riverfront and Detroit's Classic Rock Station 94.7 WCSX-FM as they kick off the 2010 Rockin' on the Riverfront summer concert series on Friday, July 16. This is the fifth year for the concert series.

This year's concerts will feature four sizzling bands from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on select Fridays during the summer.

Dave Mason will kick off the series on July 16. A seasoned musician, Mason is a singer, songwriter and guitarist, who found fame with the rock band, Traffic. Throughout his career, Mason has played with various notable musicians including Jimi Hendrix, Michael Jackson, The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, George Harrison and Fleetwood Mac. Mason's best known singles include "Feelin' Alright", "Hole in My Shoe" and "We Just Disagree."

The three additional Rockin' on the Riverfront performers will be announced at a later date.

"Detroit comes alive in the summer with Rockin' on the Riverfront," said Andiamo President and CEO Joe Vicari. "The riverfront creates the ideal atmosphere to enjoy music and food with friends and family on these warm summer nights. We invite everyone to join us and make this experience memorable."

Admission to the concerts is free and no advance tickets are necessary. Viewing space will be on a first-come, first-served basis and people are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets. In addition, boaters on the Detroit River are invited to anchor near the riverfront and enjoy the view of the stage from the water.

Andiamo Detroit Riverfront will provide refreshment and food concessions at several locations on the plaza. Outside food, beverages or coolers will not be permitted. Andiamo Detroit Riverfront will accept dinner reservations before and after the concert and invite guests to take advantage of its outdoor patio overlooking the Detroit River.

Convenient parking is available for $5 per vehicle at the GM surface lot at the intersection of St. Antoine and Atwater, adjacent to the GM Renaissance Center.

For more information, call (313) 567-6700 or visit 
www.andiamoitalia.com/detroit. 

DEAL: 75% off 5x7 Photo Book at Walgreens.com ENDS 6/30

SAVE BIG on 5x7 Photo Book at Walgreens.com thru Wednesday


Now this is my kind of deal: Use coupon code SUMMER2010 to get a 5x7 Everyday Photo Book for $2.50 (75% off) at Walgreens.com through Wednesday, June 30th.

Choose in-store pick-up so you will not be charged for shipping.

Enjoy!

Sunday, June 27, 2010

Review: Droid Incredible by HTC Smartphone

Is the Droid Incredible by HTC everything the name claims? Read on to find out ....

For the past two weeks, I have been reviewing the Droid Incredible by HTC Smartphone. The name "Incredible" is daring for a company to call a smartphone, so I was looking forward to seeing if the phone is everything that the name claims.

Overall I found the Incredible to be one slick smartphone with a lot of features that I loved. But I also found a few shortcomings with the phone and also with switching over to the Google Android operating system.

The Total Experience
If you followed my last smartphone review of the HTC Imagio, then you know that I have owned Microsoft based smartphones for the last 7 years and am very ingrained in that technology. The Incredible is based on the new Google Android operating system. Since there are tons of smartphone users like me who are used to their current smartphone technology (Blackberry, iPhone, etc) I decided to review not only the Verizon Incredible, but also the overall experience of switching operating systems.

My Checklist of Musts
I wear a lot of hats (employee, mom, blogger of the FREE) so I carry a smartphone to help me to do all these things well. I also love to read and listen to music. Therefore, I have developed a checklist of must haves that I measure any smartphone against:

1. It has to allow me to play all my music that is on my SD card.
2. It has to allow me to read my numerous eBooks.
3. It has to allow me to read the Bible.
4. It has to allow me to use all the functions of Twitter.
5. It has to keep all my contacts organized.
6. It has to allow me to use Facebook.
7. It has to have a calendar system that ties in with my primary calendar at work.

Let's see how the Droid Incredible performed against my list:

Music
I took off the back cover of the Incredible, popped in my micro SD card, clicked on the Music app and I was good to go. I bluetooth synced the Incredible with my Motorola wireless headphones and was dancing to the wonderful sounding music in no time flat.

Books
I own tons of eBooks from www.eReader.com and I was a little worried if everything would work ok with the Incredible. I did not need to worry. I used the browser on the Incredible to download the eReader app from www.eReader.com and I was good to go. The eReader app for the Android is far superior to the app I am using on my Microsoft based phone and I LOVED that the eBooks can be wirelessly downloaded as oppose to syncing the books from my computer with a cable. I love when things get BETTER changing over to new smartphone.

Bible
I like to read the Bible from my smartphone and have a few versions installed on my current phone. I hit the Android Marketplace icon on the phone and found 7 different FREE Bible apps. Sweet! I wirelessly downloaded a few and found one that I loved.

The Android Marketplace is wonderful and contains tons of FREE applications that you can wirelessly download for immediate use. This is a big plus over Microsoft that has no such marketplace.

Twitter
The Twitter app that comes with the Incredible is lousy, so I hit the Android Marketplace and I found a FREE Twitter app that gives me all the functionally that I have using Twitter on my PC. LOVED IT!


Contacts
One of the most important uses of my Smartphone is to store all my contact information. My contacts are currently stored on my work PC in Outlook. Since the Incredible uses the Google Android OS, I knew I had to transfer my contacts over to my online Google account. I did an export from Outlook and an import into Google. I had a lot of rework to do with the contacts since every field did not match and all the names were stored First Last instead of Last First. I worked everything out, but Google has some work to do if they want to match the ease of how contacts are stored in Outlook.

Facebook
One of the best features of an Android phone is how contacts are integrated with Facbook. Once you logon the Facebook app, it matches the contacts to their Facebook accounts and includes birthdays, email accounts, and photos from Facebook into your contacts list. TOO SWEAT! The Facebook app itself works just like using it on your PC. It you are a big Facebook user, you will LOVE this phone.

Calendar - Houston we have a problem.
My primary calendar is in my Outlook account on my work PC. My employer uses Microsoft products exclusively on our workstations for collaboration. The Incredible syncs wirelessly with Google calenders, so I had to download the Google calendar sync client to my work PC. I set it to sync every 30 minutes and thought everything was fine - until I noticed that some of my meetings were missing. NOT COOL! There appears to be an issue with the Google Calendar Sync Client that recurring meetings don't always sync properly and other meetings just don't show up. Until Google fixes this problem, this issue is a deal breaker for me since I have to have an up-to-date accurate calendar on my smartphone that integrates with my work calendar.



The Incredible is Slick and Fast!
The Droid Incredible itself in one great phone. The phone is a great size, with a clear, bright screen and slick buttonless keys. I have always had issues with my smartphones freezing when I had lots of apps running, but this NEVER happened with the Incredible. I quickly shifted from app to app and everything was lighting fast. I was very impressed. I was also impressed that the Incredible has an 8 megapixal digital camera and a FLASH.

Lots and Lots of Apps!
The Android Marketplace contains tons of applications, many which are FREE. One of the apps that comes on the Incredible in the FM Radio app. The app uses your headphones as an antenna. Just plug your wired headphones into the jack, and you have a fully functioning FM radio on your phone. SWEET!

A few drawbacks..
The battery life on the Incredible is not what I expected. By the end of the day, the phone battery was nearly dead - which was surprising. Also the phone tended at times to run warm which was also surprising. I have never known a smartphone to be warm to the touch. I also had some trouble getting used to the virtual keyboard. I was always triggering the wrong key while typing. It got better as I went along, but it was still frustrating at times.

If you remember my HTC Imagio review, my son fell in love with the Imagio's VCAST TV and Video features. When he found out the Incredible only had VCAST Video and not VCAST TV, he gave the phone back to me while shaking his head in total disbelief that such an important feature as TV would be left off the Incredible.

It's a little short of Incredible, but still a great phone.
Overall, I found the Droid Incredible by HTC to be a great smartphone. I loved the speed of the processor, and the size and clarity of the screen. The Android marketplace is fantastic with tons of FREE apps that can give the phone lots of wonderful features. The integration with Facebook is amazing. If you are into taking photos, who would not love a smartphone with a 8 megapixal camera with a flash.

Those who use Google exclusively for calendaring and contacts will find this phone a great extension of their current setup. If Google can fix the problem with the Outlook calendar syncing, I would seriously consider replacing my current phone with the Incredible.


Disclosure: I was loaned the Droid Incredible by HTC by Verizon for the purpose of writing this review.

FACEBOOK CONTEST - Enter to win a Droid Incredible by HTC and a Trip to Vegas

There is currently a contest on the Droid Incredible by HTC Facebook page to win an Incredible and a 3 day trip to Vegas. Click here to check it out. HURRY - Contest ends on Monday June 28, 2010


COUPON: BOGO at the Hard Rock Cafe - ENDS 6/30

Buy One Entree, Get One FREE at the Hard Rock Cafe in Detroit

As a special thank you from the Hard Rock Cafe, you can buy one entree and get another one FREE. Print this coupon and bring it to Hard Rock Cafes within the U.S. only - and that means DETROIT. Sweet!

This coupon is good thru Wednesday, June 30th.

Hard Rock Cafe Detroit
45 Monroe Street
Detroit, MI 48226

COUPON: FREE Movie Rental at Blockbuster Express ENDS 6/28

CODE for FREE Movie Rental at Blockbuster Express

Go to your local Blockbuster Express for a FREE movie using code THREE. This code is good only on Monday, June 28th.

Enjoy!

Saturday, June 26, 2010

MOVIE REVIEW: The Sorcerer's Apprentice + a freebie


Very slow middle that builds up to a great, exciting end

Thursday night, I and my son were invited by Liz Parker, from the blog Yes/No Films, to an advance screening of the new Disney movie "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" at the Livonia AMC 20.

Since this is a Disney film, I knew it would be a good, clean movie aimed at kids that is full of heroes, villains, and lots of action. I also knew that this film was produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and stared Nicolas Cage who both were part of the "National Treasure" franchise. I LOVED all of "National Treasure" films so I was really expecting a great movie.

Nicolas Cage plays Balthazar Blake, a sorcerer apprentice to Merlin the Magician from King Author fame. Merlin and Balthazar are betrayed by the sorcerer Maxin Horvath (played by Alfred Molina) who wants to destroy mankind. To save the world from doom, Balthazar imprisons Maxin and other evil sorcerers inside a Chinese nesting doll. Also imprisoned in the doll is Balthazar's one true love Veronica (played by the beautiful Monica Bellucci). Before Merlin dies, he gives Balthazar has sorcerer ring and tells him to find the one child that has the sorcerer power to save the world. Balthazar searches for centuries to find the child so that he can free Veronica from the doll. That child turns out to be Dave Stutler (played by Jay Baruchel) who is more science geek than powerful sorcerer.

The movie follows all the twists and turns of Balthazar teaching a grown-up Dave how to have confidence in this ability as a sorcerer and both of them trying to save the world from Maxin who Dave accidentally let out of the Chinese nesting doll. There are tons of actions scenes, magic duels, car chases and explosions - everything that a kid wants in a movie. My son loved the action scenes and he was cheering at the end of the movie.

For the most part I thought the movie was good. But for all the action in the film, the middle of the movie is boring and I kept looking at my watch to see when it would be over. That was surprising to me since I was never bored watching any the "National Treasure" movies. About 30 minutes of this movie could have been cut out and it would have been a much better film that would have been exciting from beginning to end. Also Jay Baruchel was good as the character Dave, but I felt I was watching him play the exact same nerdy role that he played in "She's out of My League".

"The Sorcerer's Apprentice" is a good Disney movie that children and adults will like with lots of action and special effects. Just be prepared for a very slow middle that builds up to a great, exciting end.
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"The Sorcerer's Apprentice" opens in theaters July 14, 2010.


Play the FREE online Sorcerer's Apprentice Movie Game Plasma Bolt Challenge.

Play the FREE online Sorcerer's Apprentice Movie Game Fiery Frenzy

CONTEST: Orchard Lake Fine Arts Show Youth Competition - DEADLINE 7/1


The 8th Annual Orchard Lake Fine Art Show invites young artists to enter their works of art into the Youth Art Competition, sponsored by The Chadwick Accounting Group, being held July 30-August 1, 2010.
Kids 5-12 can win one of four cash prizes! Four prizes will be awarded as follows: $100 for Best; and three $50 prizes. There is a $3 fee for entry with a limit of 2 entries per child. The winners of 2010 Youth Art Competition will be photographed and posted on the Orchard Lake Fine Art Show website, http://www.hotworks.org/, for people to view. The deadline for entries is July 1st.
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To apply or for more information, go to http://www.hotworks.org/orchardlakefineartshow/youthart.php

Friday, June 25, 2010

FREE Grand re-opening of the Detroit Children's Museum 6/26 6/27

Enjoy a FREE Outdoor Block Party, Hands-on Activities, Planetarium Shows and More at the Grand Re-opening the Children's Museum

This weekend the nation’s third oldest children’s museum will once again welcome the laughter and curiosity of young children through its doors when the Detroit Children’s Museum celebrates its grand re-opening June 26-27, 2010. Admission will be free for all visitors on opening weekend.


Now part of the Detroit Science Center, the Children’s Museum has long been one of Detroit’s cultural gems. Featuring a collection of more than 100,000 artifacts ranging from dinosaur bones to dioramas, masks, costumes and dolls from around the world, an extensive collection of rocks, fossils and crystals, and more; plus a “touch the stars” planetarium; and hands-on art and activity stations, the museum will offer visitors a unique look at world cultures, art, history and science.


Visitors on opening weekend will see some old favorites including theSilverbolt horse sculpture and Champ, the Bengal tiger, plus new displays featuring changing artifacts from the museum’s vast collection. In celebration of the grand re-opening, the museum will hold an outdoor block party with music, science shows, face painting, activities from Arts & Scraps, the Eastern Market Family Farmer’s Market, and performances by the Grateful Dads and Detroit School of Rock and Pop.


Opening day will kick off with a 10:30 a.m. ribbon cutting and public hours from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Hours on June 27 will be 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.



Detroit Children's Musuem
6134 2nd Avenue, Detroit - (313) 873-8100


Enjoy!

REVIEW: "The Wizard Of Oz" At The DSO

Guest Blogger Pete Chandler scored free tickets to hear the music from "The Wizard Of Oz" played by The Detroit Symphony Orchestra.

Let's see if the music left him easing on down the road...

As a child I looked forward to watching the Wizard Of Oz on television. Anyone my age will remember it was broadcast only once a year. The anticipation for a child was almost unbearable. Now with almost everything available on dvd and blu-ray you lose that feeling of anticipation and excitement.

This past weekend my wife and I had the opportunity to attend the Detroit Symphony Orchestra’s presentation at Orchestra Hall. The Symphony played the music from the Wizard of Oz while the movie played on the big screen. I did expect a much larger screen, but that comes from being spoiled with the huge screens we have become accustomed to at today’s theatres.

The music was absolutely wonderful and amazingly seamless. So seamless you tend to forget the music is live. Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg would have been proud of the DSO’s performance. It was a great way to experience the Wizard Of Oz in a completely new way.
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Peter Chandler is a husband, father of two daughters and lover of all things free, especially FREEISMYLIFE. Follow him on Twitter at @SirTinMan
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Thursday, June 24, 2010

Living for the (FREE) Weekend in Metro Detroit - June 25th - June 27th

Fireworks on the Detroit River - Photo by Daniel Mears - Detroit News
Here is a highlight of the FREE activities you can do this weekend in the metro Detroit area and beyond:

I bet you did not know that Wayne State University has it's own planetarium. Well it does and the shows are free and open to the public. On Friday there will be a FREE Planetarium Show at Wayne State at Old Main. The show starts at 7pm.

Also on Friday, the movie Solitary Man opens in theaters in Detroit and also the new movie "Grown Ups", so be sure to read the movie reviews by guest blogger Liz Parker before going. And make sure you play the FREE "Grown Ups" online movie game to get ready for movie.

The FREE Target Harmony in the MetroParks series begins on Friday at 8pm with a DSO concert at Kensington Metropark. The concert is FREE but regular vehicle entry charges still apply.


Back this Saturday will be the FREE Build and Grow Workshop for Kids at your local LOWES at 10am. Be sure to RSVP that you are coming. The kids will be making a Monster Truck.

The FREE Target Harmony in the MetroParks series continues on Saturday at 8pm with a DSO concert at Metro Beach. The concert is FREE but regular vehicle entry charges still apply.

Also on Saturday will be the FREE Music Concert at 12 Mile Crossing in Novi. - Michael May and the Messarounds - Jump Blues Quartet will perform. Bring your own chair.

And be sure to stop by the FREE Jazzin’ on Jefferson Festival running this Saturday and Sunday. This festival features blues, food, arts and crafts, and other activities on Detroit's lower Eastside.

Also on Saturday and Sunday is the Grand-reopening of the Children's Museum with FREE admission, an outdoor party, activities, and planetarium shows.

The FREE Target Harmony in the MetroParks series raps up on Saturday at 8pm with a DSO concert at Stoney Creek Metro Park. The concert is FREE but regular vehicle entry charges still apply.

If you are going to downtown Detroit this weekend, be sure to use the $20 off $40 coupon for THE WHITNEY It expires at the end of the June.

If you own an iPad, iPod Touch, or iPhone, download the FREE Borders eReader app and stop by Borders for your FREE cup of Brewed Coffee.

And take a minute to make your appointment for next week's FREE Xtend fitness classes at Equilibrium Studio in Bloomfield Hills. Start next week off FREE too!


Have a wonderful and blessed weekend,

COUPON: 15% off at Office Depot - ENDS 6/26

Office Depot has a new 15% off coupon that can be used in-store and online, but it ends this Saturday, June 26th so HURRY!
Restrictions apply so read coupon for details.
Enjoy!

Movie Review: "Grown Ups" plus a freebie

Guest Blogger Liz Parker is back from her advance screening of the movie "Grown Ups".
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Is it too juvenile or right on the money? Keep reading to find out...


I'll admit that I was not super excited to see this movie. I like Adam Sandler but his last few movies have been very raunchy and not that great, and the trailer for "Grown Ups" looked like it would follow that path. However, the movie ended up being cute, and most of the jokes were entertaining.

Five men who played together on their middle school basketball team when are reunited when their coach passes away. Lenny (Adam Sandler, "Funny People") is now a hotshot Hollywood exec, with a beautiful wife (Salma Hayek, "Bandidas") and children; Eric (Kevin James, "Paul Blart: Mall Cop") has packed on the pounds but has a wife and children who love him; Kurt (Chris Rock, "Death at a Funeral") is a stay-at-home dad whose wife is pregnant; Marcus (David Spade, TV's "Rules of Engagement") is still a free spirit who hasn't married and is a bit of an alcoholic; and Rob (Rob Schneider, "Grandma's Boy") has a wife who is almost twice his age. Although these five haven't seen each other for many years, they decide to spend the weekend after the funeral at Lenny's lake house, and they soon find that they are still good friends after all these years.

I would say Maybe see this movie. The movie had a lot of jokes that were more appropriate for children (ie, fart jokes, a running gag about bunions, etcetera), but others were very funny. The main five stars work well together, and their children in the movie are good actors too. Lenny's children are becoming very spoiled (says one: "This hot chocolate is NOT Godiva! I said I wanted Godiva!"), especially since they have a live-in nanny that they text all the time, and so when they are at the lake house, he wants them to get back to the "simpler" things in life (like playing outside) that he and his friends used to do when they were younger. The movie had a good moral message in it that is great for kids, and so that is why I say "Maybe" see it; if you are not a fan of Sandler and his gang, however, this might be one to skip.

"Grown Ups" opens in theaters Friday, June 25th.

Click here to play FREE "Grown Ups" online games



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Liz Parker is a 2009 graduate of the University of Michigan. She currently works as an Assistant Medical Editor for a pathology website. Visit her at her movie blog Yes/No Films.

EMPLOYMENT: Michigan Nonprofit Job Center - June 24, 2010

Michigan Nonprofit Job Center - June 24, 2010

Annual and Alumni Giving/Special Projects Officer - The Detroit Public Schools Foundation seeks an experienced development professional with a proven track record to oversee annual and alumni giving, including conducting an annual campaign and developing an alumni database, and to work on special fundraising projects. Please email cover letter and resume to info@detroitpsfoundation.org.

Director of Finance & Administration - Looking for a mission-hearted leader of finance and administration who has a passion for serving others! Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County, MI is seeking a full-time Director of Finance & Administration. Our ideal candidate must have a degree in accounting/finance and at least 5 years accounting experience, including 2 years financial management (non-profit sector preferred). Additional requirements are strong technology, analytical, project management and communications skills. You need to be an excellent team player, have a compassion for our families, and demonstrate a servant leader attitude. Ready to serve? Please contact Sally LePla at 248-338-1843, x223 or director@habitatoakland.org.

Membership Assistant Director - Dynamic non-profit professional association, selected by Crain's Detroit Business as a Cool Place to Work, is seeking an individual with management and membership marketing experience to lead recruitment and retention initiatives.More information is available at www.MNAonline.org/classified.asp.

P/T Campaign Associate - Detroit Historical Society seeks a P/T Campaign Associate, 20 hours/week, to handle administrative tasks associated with our new campaign. Strong interpersonal and organizational skills a must. Raiser's Edge a plus! Bachelor's degree and previous development experience preferred. To apply, submit resume and cover letter to Michelle Wooddell, DHS, 5401 Woodward, Detroit, MI 48202. No phone calls or emails please.


Prospect Research Analyst - Eastern Michigan University Foundation The EMU Foundation is seeking an experienced, energetic and detail oriented individual with good research skills to join the Advancement operations. The successful candidate will provide information, reports and detailed analysis pertaining to the identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of potential and current annual, major and planned gift donors to the Eastern Michigan University. Responsibilities Include: • Provide specialized, high quality prospect research and analysis using a variety of sources and strategies, to provide accurate, timely, and strategic information to fundraising staff on prospective donors. • Create confidential prospect profiles and reports on potential donors through the use of alumni database systems, electronic resources and printed reference materials. • Compile, update, verify and manage electronic files on alumni, donors, and friends to help maintain integrity of internal databases. • Update SCT Banner's Prospect Management system as relates to prospect assignments, proposals, contact reports and other biographical information. Minimum Qualifications • Demonstrated experience in the identification of prospects/donors utilizing online resources and in-house data. • Excellent Communication and report writing skills required. • The ability to utilize good judgment and ethics in handling confidential materials with sensitivity is required. • Familiarity with SCT Banner, Blackbaud ResearchPoint and Microsoft Office is required. • Bachelor's Degree in relevant field; or equivalent combination of education and experience with two to four years of experience in prospect research, preferred. Send cover letter and resume to: Director of Prospect Research EMU Foundation 1349 S. Huron Street Ypsilanti, MI 48197 emu_foundationhr@emich.edu Resumes are due by June 28, 2010 Eastern Michigan University Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer that is strongly committed to achieving excellence through cultural diversity. The Foundation actively encourages applications from women and members of underrepresented groups.

Chief Executive Officer: Seeking Chief Executive Officer for Girl Scouts of Northern Indiana-Michiana. Serving girls in 20 counties in the northern one-third of Indiana and 2 counties in southwest Michigan, with headquarters in Fort Wayne. Reporting to the Council's Board of Directors, the CEO leads the Council to meet the needs of girls ages five to seventeen through high-quality programs and girl/family/volunteer support systems. The CEO is a highly visible ambassador and champion of Girl Scouting in the communities served by the Council, communicating the Girl Scout message; inspiring volunteers, donors, and community partners; and raising the profile of the Council to the highest level. Prior executive and managerial experience in youth-serving organizations where volunteers are key to success is highly desirable. Corporate executives demonstrating knowledge of nonprofit organizational governance and dedication to youth are encouraged to apply. For further details, please visit www.egreensource.com/NIM . Simply email your cover letter and resume along with salary requirements to: Robert Perodeau, Evergreen Executive Source, LLC, P.O. Box 412 Haddonfield, NJ 08033-0412 Voice (800) 221 6663 Fax (800) 451 1451 E-mail: evergreen.source@att.net. Kindly submit documents by August 15. Equal Opportunity Employer

Development Director - The Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center is seeking a development professional to join the management team. The ideal candidate will possess the following; strategic leadership skills; a proven track record in all levels of gift cultivation and grant writing; expertise and experience in building relationships with diverse stakeholders; and the ability to work well with a team. A minimum of 5 years fundraising experience (preferably for arts and cultural organizations) and a Bachelor's Degree are required. Send a cover letter, with salary history and expectations and resume to HR@bbartcenter.org.


RFP - DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANT - Friends of the Rouge, one of the Rouge River watershed's leading environmental organizations, is requesting proposals from individuals or companies for development services (e.g., facilitate corporate relationships & sponsorships). Proponents must possess experience with providing development services for a non-profit organization, preferably with a commitment to the environment. Contacts/experience with local corporations are necessary. See a detailed RFP description at www.therouge.org. Please e-mail cover letter, proposal and references by July 2, 2010 to ed@therouge.org.

Vice President for Institutional Advancement - The Henry Ford, located in Dearborn, Michigan is a national historic landmark and one of the largest destinations in the world that celebrates American history and innovation. It is Michigan's leading cultural destination and is recognized throughout the nation as a benchmark history museum and attraction. The Henry Ford seeks a successful advancement leader with a proven record of results and innovative management in fund-raising, communications and planning and who is committed to building an active culture of philanthropy. Reporting directly to the President, the Vice President for Institutional Advancement leads and provides the overall direction, strategic planning, budgetary management, and operating effectiveness of all advancement functions at The Henry Ford. The Henry Ford is in the processes of concluding a $155 million campaign and is in the silent phase of a new campaign in support of the institution's ten year strategic plan, VISION 2020 that will further the on-going transformation of The Henry Ford. The Vice President will implement an aggressive plan for fund-raising to significantly increase annual goals of renewable and sustainable funding that align closely with VISION 2020. Applications, nominations and letters of interest may be submitted in confidence to Jon Derek Croteau, Ed.D, via email: TheHenryFord@wittkieffer.com.

Manager of Special Events - Eastern Michigan University Foundation is seeking a motivated and energetic individual to serve as Manager of Special Events. This position provides high level professional and administrative leadership for planning, implementation and management of events for the Eastern Michigan University Foundation. The events planned will include alumni of EMU, friends, valuable donors, board members, community members and volunteers. This position reports to the Chief Development Officer. Bachelor's degree and five years of proven ability to execute all aspects of special events planning, including the ability to establish program goals, manage budgets and communicate with various individuals and entities, both within the University and external organizations required. Great opportunity to establish best practices and policies while working for an expanding University. Incredible potential with launch of new campaign . Please send resume, salary history and references before July 9, 2010 to: emu_foundationhr@emich.edu. Eastern Michigan University Foundation 1349 S. Huron Ypsilanti, MI 48197

Director, Planning and Marketing for Ingham Regional Medical Center in Lansing, MI. See Employment Opportunities at www.hiringsolutionsllc.com for further information.


Executive Director - The Community Economic Development Association of Michigan (CEDAM) is a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization established in 1998. CEDAM is a voluntary association of community development corporations (CDCs), individuals, and other organizations interested in promoting and expanding community-based housing and economic development across the state of Michigan. CEDAM is currently seeking an Executive Director who will have overall responsibilities for managing and implementing the day-to-day operations of the organization and for hiring, supervising, and directing CEDAM's staff to accomplish the organization's mission, goals, and objectives as established by the Board of Directors. Job Qualifications and Requirements: Minimum education BA degree or comparable experience in related field; Minimum 5 years or more of experience with nonprofit management, real estate development, or public policy advocacy; Ability to travel statewide and nationally. Other Factors for Consideration: Planning, administrative, organizational development, financial and staff management skills; Familiarity with community economic development; Fundraising and grant writing experience; Good communications skills and attention to detail; The capability to work with volunteer Board of Directors; Ability to work well with a variety of people and organizations; Experience in managing a trade association. More information may be found online at www.cedam.info. Please submit a cover letter, salary requirements, resume and references no later than Friday, June 25, 2010 to: CEDAM, 1000 S. Washington Avenue, Suite 101, Lansing, MI 48910. Phone: (517) 485-3588. Fax: (517) 485-3043. Contact: Jessica AcMoody, acmoody@cedam.info. CEDAM is an equal opportunity employer.

Lead Case Manager - South Oakland Shelter (SOS) is hiring a full-time Lead Case Manager to play a leadership role in implementing direct services that support our agency's new strategic plan to reduce the impact and prevalence of homelessness in our community. For more information: http://shar.es/mAban

Mentor Coordinator -New Life Mentorship Program. The New Life Mentorship program is a collaboration between LoveJoy SNC and Tabernacle of David Church to provide caring mentors to guide, support, and inspire ex-prisoners to develop their attitudes and skills that will help them to become successful in their personal lives, as members of their community and at work. Location: Tabernacle of David Church, Lansing, MI More information is available at www.MNAonline.org/classified.asp.

Positions are posted daily on the Michigan Nonprofit Job Center at www.MNAonline.org/classified.asp.

FREE Xtend fitness classes at Equilibrium Studio - 6/28 - 7/3

EQUILIBRIUM STUDIO BRINGS NEW FAST-SCULPTING BALLET BARRE WORKOUT TO METRO DETROIT

Studio celebrates new program with free classes

Metro Detroiters looking to start a new fitness program this summer now have a fast-sculpting workout option at Equilibrium Studio called the Xtend Barre Workout. Equilibrium, Michigan’s only STOTT PILATES licensed training center that also offers a variety of Pilates and fitness classes, is Michigan’s exclusive Xtend training studio and the first to offer classes in southeast Michigan.

To celebrate the launch of Xtend, Equilibrium is offering FREE classes on the following days:

· June 28 – 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
· June 29 – 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
· June 30 – 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
· July 1 – 8 a.m.
· July 2 – 8 a.m.
· July 3 – 9 a.m.

Xtend is a vigorous workout that combines sculpting exercises at the ballet barre with lively music and energy. The class is based on ballet principles, but it doesn’t involve dancing. It’s a tough workout packed with isometric exercises that will tighten and tone a person’s body. The toning is paired with orthopedic stretches that will elongate the muscles and make those who take the class stand taller. An array of props like resistance balls, weights and stretch bands are also incorporated. Xtend instructors are required to be trained in Pilates, making this the safest and most challenging barre workout available.

The results from Xtend?

· Improved posture

· Toning/shaping of the butt, thighs, legs, back, arms and abs

· Increased flexibility

· Greater strength and body alignment

· Mind-body awareness

Each class at Equilibrium is a full body immersion that lasts 55 minutes and produces quick results.

“Clients will love that they are in and out in less than an hour, but still receive an intense full-body workout and stretch,” said Equilibrium Owner Nancy Hodari. “After two or three classes, metro Detroiters will feel more tightened, toned and confident about their bodies. Xtend seriously works that well.”

Former dancer and choreographer Andrea Rogers created the Xtend Barre Workout by combining exercises at a professional ballet barre with precise concentrated movements to target small muscle groups. The goal is to “shape” muscles by first increasing muscle strength and then lengthen the muscles by stretching.

To register for the free Xtend and future classes at Equilibrium Studio, call 248-723-6500.

Equilibrium Mind-Body Fitness

6405 Telegraph, Building G, Bloomfield Medical Village,
Bloomfield Hills, Michigan 48301
phone: 248.723.6500 fax: 248.723.6550
email: info@equilibriumstudio.com
http://www.equilibriumstudio.com/

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

FREE 1st Drink at Metro Times Drink Detroit Event 6/24 5-7pm Bookies Bar & Grill

Metro Times & After 5 presents Drink Detroit Happy Hour - Thursday, June 24th from 5-7pm at Bookies Bar and Grill

Drink Detroit is a monthly event rotating around the city to celebrate the hard workers making it happen in Detroit.
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Metro Times will be providing complementary drinks along with door prizes at each Drink Detroit event.
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This month's event is Thursday, June 24th from 5-7 at Bookies Bar & Grill located on 2208 Cass Avenue in Detroit.

Metro Times is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2010 and Drink Detroit is their way of saying thank you to their readers. Metro Times is Michigan’s largest weekly alternative newspaper for news, nightlife, arts, culture, music, film, food, fashion and more.

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