Thursday, December 21, 2017

ChiIL Mama's Holidaze Gift Guide 10B: Enter to WIN a Leap! Movie ($19.99) and free Despicable Me 3 Printables for All



Make 2017 a #MerryMinions Holiday and Leap! into following your dreams for the New Year



ChiIL Mama's Holidaze Gift Guide: 
Family Friendly Releases On Our Radar

This holiday season, celebrate the arrival of two of this year's best animated features when Despicable Me 3 and Leap! arrive on Blu-ray and DVD.


ENTER HERE for your chance to win Leap! on Blu-Ray + DVD + Digital HD ($19.99 value). Open nationwide/USA through midnight 1/12/18.







“A Lovely and Refreshingly Breezy Adventure with an Infectious Soundtrack.”
— Richard Roeper, Chicago Sun-Times 

NEVER STOP REACHING FOR YOUR DREAMS

Heartwarming Animated Family Adventure Featuring All-Star Voice Talent and Original Song by Carly Rae Jepsen Arrives on Digital HD November 7 and Blu-ray™, DVD, and On Demand November 21 from Lionsgate


 Celebrate the holiday season with the inspirational and uplifting family film Leap!, arriving on Digital HD November 7 and Blu-ray™ (plus DVD and Digital HD), DVD, and On Demand November 21 from Lionsgate. Featuring all-star voice talent led by Elle Fanning (Maleficent), alongside Nat Wolff (The Fault in Our Stars) and Maddie Ziegler (The Book of Henry), with Mel Brooks (Spaceballs), featuring Carly Rae Jepsen (singer-songwriter of the hit song “Call Me Maybe”) and Kate McKinnon (“Saturday Night Live”), Leap! is a colorful and imaginative story about an orphan girl who is determined to follow her dream of becoming a ballerina. Filled with irresistible original music, Leap! features the hit track “Cut to the Feeling.”

Eleven-year-old orphan Félicie (Fanning) has one dream — to go to Paris and become a dancer. Her best friend, Victor (Wolff), an imaginative, exuberant boy with a passion for creating, has a dream of his own — to become a famous inventor. In a leap of faith, Victor and Félicie leave their orphanage in pursuit of their passions. But there’s a catch: Félicie must pretend to be the child of a wealthy family in order to gain admittance to the prestigious and competitive Opera Ballet School in Paris. And with no professional dance training, she quickly learns that talent alone is not enough to overcome the ruthless, conniving attitudes of her fellow classmates, led by the devious Camille Le Haut (Ziegler). Determined to succeed, Félicie finds her mentor in the tough and mysterious school custodian, Odette (Jepsen), who, along with Victor’s encouraging friendship, help her reach for the stars.

An animated adventure the whole family will enjoy, the Leap! home entertainment release includes a behind-the-scenes video gallery and a look at stars Kate McKinnon, Nat Wolff, and Maddie Ziegler in the recording booth. Leap! will be available on Blu-ray (plus DVD and Digital HD) and DVD for the suggested retail price of $39.99 and $29.95, respectively.

BLU-RAY / DVD / DIGITAL HD SPECIAL FEATURES
“In the Recording Booth with Kate McKinnon, Nat Wolff, and Maddie Ziegler” Featurette
Behind-the-Scenes Video Gallery:
The Birth of a Dream
Animating the Dance
Reconstructing 19th Century Paris 


LEAP! PROGRAM INFORMATION
Year of Production:  2016
Title Copyright: Leap! © 2016 Mitico - Gaumont - M6 Films - PCF Ballerina Le Film Inc. All Rights
Reserved. Package Design © 2017 Lions Gate Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Type: Theatrical Release
Rating: PG for some impolite humor and action
Genre: Family/Kids, Animation, Adventure
Closed-Captioned: N/A
Subtitles: Spanish, English SDH
Feature Run Time: 89 Minutes
Blu-ray™ Format: 1080p High Definition, 16x9 Widescreen 2.35:1 Presentation
DVD Format: 16x9 Widescreen 2.35:1 Presentation
Blu-ray™ Audio: English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio™
DVD Audio: English 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio

ABOUT LIONSGATE

The first major new studio in decades, Lionsgate is a global content platform whose films, television series, digital products and linear and over-the-top platforms reach next generation audiences around the world.  In addition to its filmed entertainment leadership, Lionsgate content drives a growing presence in interactive and location-based entertainment, gaming, virtual reality and other new entertainment technologies.  Lionsgate’s content initiatives are backed by a 16,000-title film and television library and delivered through a global licensing infrastructure.  The Lionsgate brand is synonymous with original, daring and ground-breaking content created with special emphasis on the evolving patterns and diverse composition of the Company’s worldwide consumer base. 



Click image for printable Holiday 
"Merry Minions" Fun: 


The Special Edition release of Despicable Me 3 comes with an all-new mini movie and over an hour of bonus content including a never-before-released deleted scene, and so much more! It arrives on Digital and Digital 3D on November 21, 2017 and on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray™, DVD and On Demand on December 5, 2017 from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. 

With an all-new original song by Carly Rae Jepsen, Leap! tells the heartwarming tale of one girl's dream to become a dancer in Paris. It arrives on Digital HD on November 7 and on Blu-ray™, DVD and On Demand on November 21 from Lionsgate Home Entertainment. 

Despicable Me 3 arrives on Digital and Digital 3D on November 21, 2017 and on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray™, DVD and On Demand on December 5, 2017 from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment.





FROM THE HIGHEST-GROSSING ANIMATED FILM FRANCHISE OF ALL TIME, GRU AND HIS MINIONS MAKE MERRY MAYHEM IN THE YEAR’S #1 ANIMATED COMEDY

DESPICABLE ME 3

SPECIAL EDITION FEATURING AN ALL-NEW MINI-MOVIE, MINION MOMENTS & MORE!

AVAILABLE ON DIGITAL NOVEMBER 21, 2017 4K ULTRA HD, BLU-RAY™, DVD AND ON DEMAND ON DECEMBER 5, 2017 FROM UNIVERSAL PICTURES HOME ENTERTAINMENT

Illumination and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment present Despicable Me 3 on Digital and Digital 3D November 21, 2017 and on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray™, DVD and On Demand December 5, 2017. The characters beloved by everyone – Gru, his wife Lucy, their three adorable daughters—Margo, Edith and Agnes—and the Minions provide hours of family fun in this heartwarmingly subversive comedy from Academy Award®-nominated producer Chris Meledandri (Despicable Me Franchise) and directors Pierre Coffin (Despicable Me Franchise) and Kyle Balda (Minions 1 & 2, The Lorax). Hailed as “the best Despicable Me movie yet,” by Ali Plumb of BBC Radio 1, with over $949 million in global ticket sales, Despicable Me 3 is the ultimate holiday gift, with almost an entire hour of exclusive bonus features including an all-new mini-movie, a never-before-released deleted scene, and much more!

Illumination, the studio that brought you Sing, The Secret Life of Pets and the Despicable Me franchise, continues the adventures of Gru and his family in Despicable Me 3. After he is fired from the Anti-Villain League for failing to take down Balthazar Bratt (Trey Parker, “South Park,” Team America: World Police), the latest evil mastermind to threaten humanity, Gru finds himself in the midst of a major identity crisis. But when a mysterious stranger shows up to inform Gru that he has a long-lost twin brother — a brother who desperately wishes to follow in his twin’s despicable footsteps — the former super-villain rediscovers just how good it feels to be bad.

Academy Award® nominee Steve Carell (Foxcatcher) reprises his hilarious role as reformed criminal mastermind Gru, as well as his newly discovered twin, Dru. The all-star voice cast also features Kristen Wiig (Bridesmaids, Despicable Me 2), Miranda Cosgrove (Despicable Me 1 & 2, School of Rock), Steve Coogan (The Secret Life of Pets, Philomena), Jenny Slate (Zootopia, The Secret Life of Pets), Dana Gaier (Despicable Me 1 & 2) and legendary singer and actress Julie Andrews (The Sound of Music, Mary Poppins).

Despicable Me 3 will be available on 4K Ultra HD in a combo pack which includes 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray™, Blu-ray™ and Digital. The 4K Ultra HD will include all bonus features on the Blu-ray™ disc.

4K Ultra HD is the ultimate movie watching experience. 4K Ultra HD features the combination of 4K resolution for four times sharper picture than HD, the color brilliance of High Dynamic Range (HDR) with immersive audio delivering a multidimensional sound experience.

Blu-ray™ unleashes the power of your HDTV and is the best way to watch movies at home, featuring 6X the picture resolution of DVD, exclusive extras and theater-quality surround sound.

DIGITAL lets fans watch movies anywhere on their favorite devices. Users can instantly stream or download.



BONUS FEATURES EXCLUSIVE TO 4K ULTRA HD, BLU-RAYTM, DVD & DIGITAL:

All-New Mini Movie — The Secret Life of Kyle
Minion Moments — Watch the Minions cause more hilarious mayhem with Gru
Deleted Scene — With intro by Dana Gaier, the voice of Edith
Character Profiles — The inside scoop on the most popular characters, from the actors who play them

The Making of Despicable Me 3 — A behind-the-scenes look at the making of the movie
Developing Dru — Behind the scenes character development of Dru
The AVL Files — Through the lens of the Anti-Villain League’s hi-tech database, this ultra secret, interactive surveillance briefing showcases all of the agency’s amazing creations and top agents
Freedonia Visitors Guide — Welcome to Freedonia! See all that the town has to offer with this interactive map. From its world class cheese, to its beautiful coastline, Freedonia has it all!
Despicable Me TV — Tune in for some fabulous fun with these Despicable Me 3 infomercials. Includes “Balthazar Bratt Action Figure,” “Bad Boy Bod by Balthazar Bratt” and “Agnes’ Super Cute, Incredibly Amazing Toy Sale.”
“Doowit” Sing-Along — Sing along with Pharrell Williams as the Minions plot their escape from prison
“Yellow Light” Music Video — Official music video by Pharrell Williams
Minion Mugshots — The Minions add to the long list of celebrity mugshots in their very own “rogues gallery.”
Wanted Posters — Have you seen these Minions wanted for various crimes?

Website: http://uni.pictures/DM3
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DespicableMe/
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/DespicableMe
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/despicableme/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/DespicableMeMovie
Hashtag: #DespicableMe3

DESPICABLE ME 3 FILMMAKERS:
Cast: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Trey Parker, Miranda Cosgrove, Steve Coogan, Jenny Slate, Dana Gaier, Julie Andrews
Directed By: Pierre Coffin, Kyle Balda
Produced By: Chris Meledandri, Janet Healy
Executive Produced By: Chris Renaud
Written By: Cinco Paul, Ken Daurio
Co-directed By: Eric Guillon
Score By: Heitor Pereira
Original Songs and Themes By: Pharrell Williams
Edited By: Clare Dodgson

DESPICABLE ME TECHNICAL INFORMATION – BLU-RAYTM:
Street Date: December 5, 2017
Copyright: 2017 Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. All Rights Reserved.
Selection Number: 6118066 (US)/ 6118068 (CDN)
Running Time: 1 hour, 29 minutes
Layers: BD-50
Aspect Ratio: Widescreen 2.40:1
Rating: PG for action and rude humor
Video: 1080p High-Definition
Sound: English DTS:X, Dolby Digital 2.0 and DTS-HD High Resolution Audio 7.1, French DTS Digital
Surround 5.1, Spanish DTS-HD High Resolution Audio 7.1
Language/Subtitles English SDH, French and Spanish

DESPICABLE ME TECHNICAL INFORMATION – DVD
Street Date: December 5, 2017
Copyright: 2017 Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. All Rights Reserved.
Selection Number: 61180665 (US)/ 61180676 (CDN)
Running Time: 1 hour, 29 minutes
Layers: DVD-9
Aspect Ratio: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Rating: PG for action and rude humor
Sound: English, Spanish and French Dolby Digital 5.1, Dolby Digital 2.0
Language/Subtitles English SDH, French and Spanish



About Illumination 
Illumination, founded by Academy Award® nominee Chris Meledandri in 2007, is one of the entertainment industry’s leading producers of event-animated films.  The company’s franchises include two of the top-six animated films of all time, and its iconic, beloved brands—infused with memorable and distinct characters, global appeal and cultural relevance—have grossed more than $5.7 billion worldwide. 

Illumination was recently honored by Fast Company as one of the world’s most innovative companies. 

Illumination, which has an exclusive financing and distribution partnership with Universal Pictures, has garnered an extraordinary number of franchise successes for a studio only a decade old.  As the creator of the hugely successful world of Despicable Me, which was recently crowned the top-grossing box-office animated franchise globally, Illumination has evolved the Despicable Me series to include Minions, the second-highest-grossing animated film of all time and the most profitable film in Universal’s history, as well as the Academy Award®-nominated Despicable Me 2 and summer 2017’s Despicable Me 3, which has already made more than $950 million at the global box office.

In 2016 alone, Illumination launched two original properties that captivated audiences worldwide.  Last summer, The Secret Life of Pets achieved the best opening for an original movie, animated or otherwise, in U.S. history.  Likewise, the critically lauded holiday favorite Sing premiered to a standing ovation at the Toronto International Film Festival before becoming a global smash.

Founded 10 years ago with the mission of putting a smile on the face of every member of the audience, no matter their age, Illumination continues to imagine both original stories, as well as unexpected adaptations of beloved pre-existing works.  By infusing joy and discovery into every property, the studio allows audiences to connect their experiences with each property to the Illumination brand itself.

With successful mobile games, consumer products and social/digital media, Illumination’s franchises—populated with characters that are as comedic as they are heartfelt and authentic—translate far beyond the theater.  “Despicable Me: Minion Rush” has now become the fifth-most popular game ever, while Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem, at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood, has been joined by the wildly popular Minion Park at Universal Studios Japan…where the Minions are the No. 1 licensed characters.

Illumination’s upcoming films—featuring creative contributors from an unparalleled collection of writers, artists, voice talent and musicians—include Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch in November 2018, The Secret Life of Pets 2 in June 2019, Minions 2 in July 2020, and Sing 2 in December 2020.

About Universal Pictures Home Entertainment
Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (UPHE) is a unit of Universal Pictures, a division of Universal Studios (www.universalstudios.com). Universal Studios is a part of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment television networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, world-renowned theme parks, and a suite of leading Internet-based businesses. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation.



Click image below for lots more opportunities to enter and WIN through 12/20/17.
ChiIL Mama's Holidaze 12 Days of Giveaways Gift Guide is LIVE




Holiday Gift Guide, Giveaways, Discount Codes, Product Reviews and More! 

ChiIL Mama's Holidaze Giveaways 10A: Best Bets For Parents To Be and Babies: ($84 Value)

Here's many of our top picks for the littlest littles, a TWELVElittle new diamond quilt Companion Backpack review, and a giveway of four of our favorites too!


Review: TWELVElittle - Companion Backpack (Leopard)

ChiIL Mama's Chi, IL Picks List: "Must have" diaper bag/backpack for getting around town in style

I've been hearing raves about TWELVElittle, but this is their first backpack I've had a chance to check out and I'm loving the leopard. This is not your mother's diaper bag! This pack has style to spare and it's playful and fun. Colors come in Black, Pewter too, for a guy friendly look. This bag has pockets galore, and an adorable contrasting inner fabric. The leopard has a grey lining and matching pad that's grey with white dots. The very front shuts with a magnet for easy one handed access, and there are plenty of zipping compartments and two sizable insulated side bottle pockets for milk, juice, or "mom's juice" AKA: coffee! The inside has plenty of pockets, too, so drinks stay upright and snacks, wipes and essentials are within easy reach. They're pretty great for keys and camera lenses too!

We've tried out loads of diaper bags over the years and this is one of the most lightweight and comfortable. The padded back and straps make this easy to grab and go and still comfortable when packed to the gills. We just took it hiking at the Arboretum and it was a joy to wear for hours. This bag is built to last and will grow with your family well beyond the toddler years. The fabric is easy to clean inside and out and there's even a wet pocket for stashing dirty stuff. Highly recommended.  

Introducing TWELVElittle’s new diamond quilt Companion Backpack, made with soft and lightweight water-resistant material. The Companion Backpack is a must-have for moms who seek fashion forward style and maximum comfort. The spacious main compartment allows room for all baby essentials, and with multiple exterior and interior pockets, organization is simply effortless. 

Water-resistant smooth nylon and leather trim. 

Six exterior pockets including two insulated bottle pockets, and five interior pockets for maximum organization. 

Extremely light-weight and comfortable to carry - has padded backpack panel and ergonomically shaped straps. 

Includes a machine-washable changing pad and a "Dirty Little Secret" pocket, which is a hidden pocket to stash away dirty items such as soiled diapers or clothes. 

Free of harsh chemicals such as PVC and BPA. 
Available Colors: Black, Pewter and Leopard 
Age range:  13+ Years 
MSRP: $189.00 







Giveaway: ChiIL Mama's giving away 4 favorites of ours ($84 Value). ENTER HERE. Open nationwide/USA through midnight 1/12/18. Includes:

mirari myPad Touch by Playmonster
Malarkey Kids Munch Mitt 
BapronBaby ezClean Bapron
Snap & Shop Snack Tray







mirari myPad Touch by Playmonster: $29.99




The durable play tablet features colorful light-up images and over 50 fun sounds and phrases that activate when children press the touchscreen! Children will have their very own learning pad to play with, and they’ll have fun pretending to be like mommy and daddy with their tablets! 

Develops:

Cognitive Learning: Understanding the cause & effect relationship 

Sensory Development: Exploring with hands and eyes, experiencing sounds and lights 

Imagination: Pretending toys are like grown-ups’ electronics 

Ages 12M+ 

Includes three 1.5 volt “AAA” replaceable batteries. 

The Way Play Should Be: Children deserve engaging and entertaining toys without unnecessary features to overwhelm them, and that’s what Mirari gives them—playtime that is pure in its experience, with no added distractions that take away from the magic of play. Mirari, from the Latin word for “wonder” and “amaze,” delights children with classic play in an innovative way with stimulating, quality toys that provide children with the tools they need to grow, thrive and learn. Through play, children explore their world and experience wonder and fulfillment, opening a world of possibilities. The Mirari brand of toys embraces this, bringing joy to children and families, because a world of wonder begins with playful discoveries.



Malarkey Kids’ Munch Mitt: $18.99 


Malarkey Kids’ Munch Mitt is the undroppable, unstoppable teething mitt. Made with food grade silicone, BPA and Phthalate free, the mitt is both convenient for parents and fun for babies.  Munch Mitt gives little ones the gift of self-managing teething relief and parents the gift of free hands! Comes with travel/wash bag and is great for travel in the car seat or stroller 
Available Colors: Green, Purple Shimmer, Pink Shimmer and Aqua Blue 

Recommended for ages 3-8 months. Can be used up to 12 months of age. 
MSRP: $18.99 




Snap & Shop: $14.99 


Snap & Shop is easy to use, portable, provides a clean surface to feed your child their favorite snacks and is parent and kid approved! It’s easy to pack up before heading to the store, small enough to fit in your bag and allows for convenient snack refills while shopping. Cleaning is a "snap" with wipes while at the store and in the dishwasher when you get home. The Snap & Shop provides kids their favorite snacks to them right at their fingertips.  With the patent designed handle grip and flexible arm, the snack tray will stay secured to the shopping cart handle while your child feeds themselves their snacks and you get through your list quickly!  It's the hassle-free way to shop with your kids! 


Available Colors: Pink, Green, Blue 
Age range: 9 months-4 years 
MSRP: $14.99 




BapronBaby’s ezClean Bapron: $19.95 


BapronBaby’s ezClean Bapron is something every parent will love! BapronBaby's unique ezClean fabric is an eco-friendly polyester that is treated for total waterproof protection and maximum stain resistance.  Our baprons (think bib + apron) contour your toddler's body and allow for a comfortable fit that grows with them from size 6m-3T clothing.  Our unique, patent-pending design allows your child to play freely with their food or sensory activities without constricting around their neck like a traditional bib and your tiny tot can't remove it without a grown-up.  Less mess for everyone!  (It rinses clean in the sink between meals as well, saving you headache and laundry.) You just have to see for yourself why moms everywhere are going nuts over the ezClean bapron!  It's truly "the bib for kids who hate bibs"! Comes in a variety of colors and patterns. 

Age range: 6 months+ 
MSRP: $19.95 









More Favorites: 




The new TWELVElittle’s Unisex 3-in-1 Foldover Tote 
is the first of its kind! It’s the first diaper bag that can be carried in three different ways with a single strap! By using the webbing handles, it can be carried as a handheld tote. And with the padded adjustable long strap, it can be attached to the sides as a fold-over messenger, and then easily converts into a backpack. Durable, spacious and comfortable, the unisex foldover tote is designed for both moms and dads that are style conscious and frequently on-the-go.  

Water-resistant crinkle nylon and leather trim. 

Five exterior pockets including two insulated bottle pockets. Five interior pockets including a padded laptop sleeve.  

Extremely light-weight, and spacious. Can be carried in 3 ways. 

Includes a machine-washable changing pad and a "Dirty Little Secret" pocket, which is a hidden pocket to stash away dirty items such as soiled diapers or clothes. 

Free of harsh chemicals such as PVC and BPA. 
Available Colors: Black, Grey, Olive and Camo 
Age range:  18+ Years 
MSRP: $189.00 


JJ Rabbit Cuppie, ergo Fork and Spoon Set and SiliMAT 




CUPPIES® from jj rabbit are here! It’s time to transition to a real cup; but, how do you do that without taking away the security and comfort of a sippy cup? With a hidden animal at the bottom of each CUPPIES®, your little ones will finish every time to see their favorite friend. Biodegradable, free of BPA, Phthalates, and PVC. Top-rack dishwasher safe when temperature is below 185˚F / 85˚C. Volume: 8oz. / 235ml. 

Available Colors/Patterns: Wet Coral, Lime Pop, Orange Peel, Sea Life 
Age range: 1 year+ 
MSRP: $7.49 


The jj rabbit ergoFORK+SPOON™ has an angled handle which means it’s EASY for baby to hold, EASY to pick up and put down. Curved Tip = EASY self-feeding, elevated spoon tip keeps food spills off the table. Biodegradable, free of BPA, Phthalates, and PVC. Top-rack dishwasher safe when temperature is below 185˚F / 85˚C. 

Available Colors/Patterns: Wet Coral, Lime Pop, Orange Peel, Sea Life 
Age range: 6 months+ 
MSRP: $4.49 


The jj rabbit siliMAT is perfect for home or on the go, protecting kiddos from germs, dirt, and cleaning chemicals on public surfaces! Made of soft, food-grade silicone, the anti-slip siliMAT can be a placemat or a plate. Reusable and easy to clean - simply wipe or throw in the dishwasher. We also added a hole on the upper right-hand corner so siliMATs can hang dry and be re-used quickly. Anti-bacterial and free of BPA, Phthalates, and PVC. 

Dimensions: 15 x 11 inches (38 x 28 cm) 
Available Colors/Patterns: Orange Peel Rabbit, Sea Life Penguin, Lime Pop Frog, Wet Coral Piglet 
Age range: 6 months+ 
MSRP: $9.99 

Click image below for lots more opportunities to enter and WIN through 12/20/17.
ChiIL Mama's Holidaze 12 Days of Giveaways Gift Guide is LIVE




Holiday Gift Guide, Giveaways, Discount Codes, Product Reviews and More! 


Disclosure: Thanks to all the brands above for providing complimentary samples for our giveaway and/or for review purposes. As always, all opinions are my own.


Tuesday, December 19, 2017

“MERRY MINIONS” HOLIDAY PROGRAM BRINGS SEASONAL FUN TO BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF AMERICA

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF AMERICA PARTNERS WITH THE HOME ENTERTAINMENT RELEASE OF ILLUMINATION’S DESPICABLE ME 3 FOR HOLIDAY FUN AND SURPRISES WITH THE “MERRY MINIONS” HOLIDAY PROGRAM



Seasonal Initiative Aligns with the Release of Despicable Me 3 Now on Digital and on Blu-ray™ & DVD on December 5, 2017.

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (UPHE) and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America are teaming up for a “Merry Minions” Holiday Program,  a joint venture designed to celebrate the season with help from the home entertainment release of Despicable Me 3-- the biggest animated film of the year presented by Illumination and UPHE -- and the iconic Minions.  Despicable Me 3 has grossed over $1 billion at the global box office and is available now on Digital and on Blu-ray™, DVD, On Demand and 4K Ultra HD on December 5, 2017.

In keeping with the holiday spirit, the “Merry Minions” Holiday Program is intended to engage Boys & Girls Club members through fun Minion-themed activities that encourage friendship, teamwork, leadership and creativity.  Participating Clubs in select markets— including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Boston, Dallas, Seattle, and others —will receive unique “Merry Minions” holiday kits containing a variety of Despicable Me 3 party, baking and craft items to help spread the holiday cheer.

During the month of December,  Boys & Girls Club kids will work together to create holiday ornaments or gift items, decorate baked goods,  design artwork inspired by the Minions, hold Minion-themed screening parties, and more. Group activities using the “Merry Minions” holiday kit elements are intended to foster the BGCA’s mission of teaching youths to be productive, caring and cooperative, themes also reflected in Despicable Me 3 and ideal for the holiday season.  Clubs will have the opportunity to turn activities into fundraising events, community service projects, opportunities for volunteer support functions, gift-giving and mentoring/teaching lessons for youths.

Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Illumination, and ​Universal Pictures Home Entertainment are committed to helping America’s youth shape their futures and celebrate the holiday season through the spirit of giving.

About Despicable Me 3
The characters beloved by everyone – Gru, his wife Lucy, their three adorable daughters—Margo, Edith and Agnes—and the Minions are back in this heartwarmingly subversive comedy from Academy Award®-nominated producer Chris Meledandri (Despicable Me Franchise) and directors Pierre Coffin (Despicable Me Franchise) and Kyle Balda (Minions 1 & 2, The Lorax). After he is fired from the Anti-Villain League for failing to take down Balthazar Bratt, the latest evil mastermind to threaten humanity, Gru finds himself in the midst of a major identity crisis. But when a mysterious stranger informs Gru that he has a long-lost twin brother — a brother who desperately wishes to follow in his twin’s despicable footsteps — the former super-villain rediscovers just how good it feels to be bad. Featuring the voice talents of Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Miranda Cosgrove, Steve Coogan, Jenny Slate, Dana Gaier and legendary actress Julie Andrews, Despicable Me 3 is the #1 animated film of the year and the latest chapter in the biggest animated franchise in the world.

About BGCA
For more than 150 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (https://www.bgca.org/)
has enabled young people most in need to achieve great futures as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Today, 4,300 Clubs serve 4 million young people through Club membership and community outreach. Clubs are located in cities, towns, public housing and on Native American lands throughout the country and on U.S. military installations worldwide. They provide a safe place, caring adult mentors, fun and friendship, and high-impact youth development programs on a daily basis during critical non-school hours. Club programs promote academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles. In a Harris Survey of alumni, 54 percent said the Club saved their lives. National headquarters are located in Atlanta. Learn more at http://bgca.org/facebook and http://bgca.org/twitter.

About Universal Pictures Home Entertainment
Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (UPHE) is a unit of Universal Pictures, a division of Universal Studios (www.universalstudios.com). Universal Studios is a part of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment television networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, world-renowned theme parks, and a suite of leading Internet-based businesses. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation.

About Illumination
Illumination, founded by Academy Award® nominee Chris Meledandri in 2007, is one of the entertainment industry’s leading producers of event-animated films.  The company’s franchises include two of the top-six animated films of all time, and its iconic, beloved brands—infused with memorable and distinct characters, global appeal and cultural relevance—have grossed more than $5.7 billion worldwide. 

WIN a Hilton Hotels Despicable Me 3 trip to Los Angeles, hotel stay and tickets for four to Universal Studios Hollywood!

HILTON HOTELS PARTNERS WITH THE HOME ENTERTAINMENT RELEASE OF ILLUMINATION’S DESPICABLE ME 3 FOR THE ULTIMATE FAMILY GETAWAY IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA


Hilton Hotels is promoting the release of Despicable Me 3 with a national sweepstakes offer with a Grand Prize trip to Los Angeles, hotel stay and tickets for four to Universal Studios Hollywood!

Contest ends 11:59 PM PST on December 31, 2017. Open to legal residents of 50 U.S. & D.C., 21+. One prize available to be won. Blackout dates apply.

Additionally, select hotels in Southern California, New York, San Francisco, Minneapolis, Washington D.C. and Houston will be displaying photo backdrops featuring the Minions in the lobbies and distributing Minion sticker sheets, luggage tags and holiday bags while supplies last! 

To learn more, visit www.HiltonHonors.com/DM3

Despicable Me 3 is now available on 4K Ultra HD™, Blu-ray™,DVD, Digital, Digital 3D and On Demand.



Sunday, December 17, 2017

ChiIL Mama's Holidaze Giveaways 9: 6 Kindie Album Downloads Collection ($56/2 Winners) AND 4 Little Miss Ann Concert Tickets ($40)




TWO GREAT GIVEAWAYS. ENTER EITHER OR BOTH BELOW:



WIN 6 Album Downloads ($56 value) 

From Top Family Friendly Bands including Lisa Loeb, Jack Forman (of Sirius XM & Recess Monkey), Brady Rymer, Little Miss Ann & Amy D, and Miss Jamie! 
2 Winners - open worldwide

AND/OR

4 Little Miss Ann Concert Tickets ($40 value) 1 Winner- Chicago area



Got rock tots, little folk, punk kin, or dance divas? Music is the gift that keeps on giving. It's a great clutter busting idea for Hanukkah, stocking stuffers, advent calendar daily count downs, and gift toppers. We're thrilled to partner up with a number of musicians including Grammy Winners and nominees, Parents’ Choice Gold Award Winners, local Chicago favs, and acclaimed hit makers for our 2017 holiday gift guide. ChiIL Mama's giving away lots of stellar new releases to 2 of our lucky readers here. Best of all, our readers worldwide can enter! You don't need to be local to enjoy this great giveaway. Share the joy of familiar favorites with your friends and family this holiday, and discover something new for you too. These are some of our favorites:

Lisa Loeb - Lullaby Girl  $8.99 download

Pull up the covers and relax with Lisa Loeb and a world-class quartet led by keyboardist Larry Goldings. An Amazon Originals release, Lullaby Girl offers fresh and dreamy arrangements of classic songs from a variety of genres. Lisa’s distinctive voice adds intimacy and expression to these familiar melodies. Hushed and meditative, the recording was co-produced with Lisa's longtime collaborator Rich Jacques and Goldings, who is known for his work with James Taylor, John Mayer, as well as many top jazz artists. World-renowned songwriter and guitarist Adam Levy (who tours and records with Norah Jones and Tracy Chapman) also performs. The album was originally planned as a traditional lullaby record for children. As they began the recording process, Lisa, Larry and Rich found a uniquely different path, and it became clear that this would be a record for everyone. “I’m so excited for everyone to hear this collection of classics recorded with an amazing group of musicians. I feel like we’ve come up with a new take on classics that people will really enjoy. We live in a time where everything happens so quickly, but with this album, you’ll be able to slow it all down and relax!" shares Lisa.

Indeed, Lullaby Girl is an album for insomniacs. Lisa's performance reminds us of why songs like “Be My Baby,” “All the Pretty Little Horses,” “Dream a Little Dream,” "What the World Needs Now Is Love" and “Oooh Child” remain classics. Lisa’s original songs “Close Your Eyes” and "Lullaby Girl" flows right in with the pristine arrangements of tunes like Brian Wilson’s “In My Room” and Annie's“Tomorrow.”


Lullaby Girl is the perfect companion to Lisa's other award-winning family music releases Nursery Rhyme Parade! and Feel What U Feel.


Jack Forman (of SiriusXM and Recess Monkey fame) Solo album "Songs from the Monkey House"  $8.99 download

Jack Forman is the GRAMMY-nominated host of "Live From the Monkey House" on SiriusXM's Kids Place Live, and a member of the acclaimed Seattle family band Recess Monkey.


This collection of twelve songs is his first solo musical endeavor, stitching together hilarious ideas from phone calls with kids with the same high energy excitement for kids that Jack brings to the air coast to coast each afternoon.






Brady Rymer - "Revvin' Up the Reindeer" (a holiday album) $9.49 download

Following eight albums and three Grammy nominations in the Children's genre, Brady Rymer and the Little Band That Could introduce Revvin' Up the Reindeer, a holiday album for the whole family. 13 original tunes celebrate the loving, festive jumble of the season: caroling harmonies, brass and bells inflect the band's roots-y, feel-good sound, recalling beloved Christmas standards yet distinctively fresh and new. The title track is a 50's rock 'n' roll romp, imagining Santa with a souped-up sleigh; lyrical accordion embellishes the Klezmer-inspired ''Rainbow Candles''; the hopeful sing-a-long ''Christmas Wishes'' radiates with a lush, Motown treatment, and the band rings out the old and swings in the new in raucous, Dixieland jazz fashion with ''Baby New Year.'' Whispers of holiday standards weave cleverly throughout, conjuring up the magic of the holiday season. Whether you've been naughty or nice, Revvin' Up the Reindeer will be your new Holiday Jam!




Little Miss Ann & Amy D - Keep On $9.49 download and Little Miss Ann Follow Me $8.99 download. 




Little Miss Ann (a.k.a. Ann Torralba), a first-generation Filipina-American is proud to be part of the Chicago Kindie music scene and an instructor at the esteemed Old Town School of Folk Music. She is a former Chicago Public School teacher. This is her fourth album. Little Miss Ann has been called one of the 'most influential kids musicians in Chicago' and 'one of the best local kindie acts' by Time Out Chicago. Little Miss Ann is the founder of the Windy Kindie Chicago Cooperative and co-creator of the Chicago Kindie Sampler. She has guest DJ'ed on the Hilltown Families Variety Show, written about all things Kindie for various websites, produced a popular Nodcast Podcast for the Land of Nod, and contributed a song to Keep Hoping Machine Running - Songs of Woody Guthrie. Ann lives in Chicago with her husband, daughter, and dog.

Little Miss Ann has enjoyed national acclaim and a fervent following for her upbeat, down-to-earth and interactive folksy music. Her fifth album of hopeful and happy songs, Keep On, is the result of a collaboration with children's music newcomer Amy D. Both connected through their dedication to children along with being first generation Filipina American musicians based in Chicago. Keep On ranges in musical styles: Grownups and their offspring both will appreciate the 50's doo-wop sounding song, ''L.O.V.E.,'' the Andrew Bird-meets-Liz Phair ode to Chicago ''The 606,'' as well as re-imagined traditional favorites like the Johnny Cash-esque ''Where Is Thumbkin?'' and a spirited Calypso song that originated in Jamaica called ''Hill and Gully Rider.'' There's even a springy-swingy rendition of ''Tiptoe Through the Tulips,'' blending sweet harmonies, mandolin, and a toy piano.



Miss Jamie's Farm $9.99 download. Miss Jamie is a Chicago favorite of ours. She also has a fabulous selection of original children's books and t-shirts for sale on her site HERE, that are great for stocking stuffers and holiday gifting.

Miss Jamie's Farm is a popular music show for young kids and their families, sharing values from life down on the farm through songs both new and familiar. Sing, dance, laugh and learn with Miss Jamie and her farm puppet friends! 



#1. Worldwide:  ENTER HERE to win all 6 kindie album downloads above ($56 value/2 winners). 2 runner ups will also each win 1 Miss Jamie's Farm $9.99 download as well.


#2. Chicago Area: ENTER HERE 






Click image below for lots more opportunities to enter and WIN through 12/20/17.
ChiIL Mama's Holidaze 12 Days of Giveaways Gift Guide is LIVE




Holiday Gift Guide, Giveaways, Discount Codes, Product Reviews and More! 


Disclosure: Thanks to all the bands above for providing complimentary download codes for our giveaway. As always, all opinions are my own.

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