Pulse Scooters Brings New Technology To Extreme Scooters

Sante Fe Springs, CA --From the first-of-its-kind Slither Drift Scooter to the old school-style NEW Pavement King, PULSE Scooters from Bravo Sports are ruling the road. Designed and built with the next generation of riders in mind, the Pulse line is all about extreme tricks, 2010 technology and speed. Kids and their parents can’t get enough of their fast-paced action and the smooth ride.

“As kids are becoming experienced scooter riders, they are looking for new tricks and new ways to ride,” says Tony Armand, Bravo Sports CEO. “The success of the Pulse line of scooters is our commitment to providing new technology to an old favorite.”

PULSE is proud to announce the entire line of Pulse products, as well as the NEW Pavement King and NEW Road Rager scooters. Available nationwide at Target, K-Mart, and Toys R Us and other retailers nationwide. www.pulsescooters.com http://www.pulsescooters.com/


1. NEW! Pavement King –With a nod to retro, wood skateboards and surfboards, the Pavement King features a 9-Ply laminated wood deck with additional fiberglass ply’s for strength and durability. It also has signature large wheels and grip tape protected graphics. $69.99; ages 5+; in stores in end of March.

2. NEW! Road Rager – With aggressive, age appropriate graphics, this aluminum construction scooter features big wheel, is super light weight and has a steel rear foot brake. $89.99; ages 8+; in stores in end of March.

3. Slither Drift Scooter –The first innovative three-wheeled scooter of its kind, the Slither offers the ability to pull off tricks and maneuvers that are simply not possible on any other scooter or wheeled good thanks to the two large front wheels offset with a single rear wheel housed in a pivot-mounted swivel truck. The Pulse Slither translates the fun of riding a snowboard, skiing or surfing into a street toy. $59.99; ages 8+

4. Xcelerator Kick ‘N Go – Larger and faster, the Xcelerator is great for kids who want to get speed. Unlike traditional scooters that require constant pushing off the ground, the Pulse Kick 'N Go uses a unique chain and kick pedal self-propulsion system, allowing the rider to achieve blazing speed and tight maneuverability while maintaining a balanced stance on the deck. $89.99; ages 8+

5. Nitrous Kick ‘N Go – The Pulse Kick 'N Go ain't your daddy's scooter. Reengineered from the original Kick 'N Go scooters from the 1970s, the Pulse Kick 'N Go offers a super fun and smooth ride with a revolutionary new propulsion pedal design. Built to be smaller, lighter. $119; ages 5+

Click here to see the latest Slither Drift Scooter video as seen on Nickelodeon, Nick Toons, Cartoon Network and Disney XD: http://www.pulsescooters.com/Home.aspx

Coolest House On The Block

My Favorite Everything is a great blog about the favorite things of a busy gal-on-the-go who knows how to get things done.

Her latest blog featured the favorite things of Kellie Swaim of Bravo Sports and her list of must-have toys and products to make your house the coolest on the block.

Among the items featured, my own personal favorites are the trampoline (really, what kid doesn't like to jump!?) and the Quik Shade cabana (talk about instant gratification!)

O-Mama Hosts Inaugural House Party - Three Easy Tips To Setting The Stage

This last Saturday night we went to the Inaugural House Party for O-Mama.  The party was such a success and so much fun that we decided to tell you about it in a few posts so you could get the full picture and get some ideas of your own so you can host your own O-Mama House Party.

Must-Have O-MAMA House Party Decor and Food:

#1 - Fun Cocktails - Red Martinis for Republicans and Blue Martinis for Democrats (make note of the cute colored sugar for the rim of the glasses!)

#2 Make A Statement With Your Dessert Bar - This dessert bar by Meringue Bake Shop was to die for!  I love the mini cupcakes with the O-Mama Logo. An added bonus to the table of treats -- it made the party not only taste like heaven but it also smelled like it!
#3 - Have Conversation Starters - I loved the idea of hanging conversation starters from balloons.  So clever.
Another easy way to start a conversation is put a bunch of topics in a bowl like this:

Stay tuned for party pictures and other fun ideas!

Parents Magazine Features Vazu Kids' LOOK WHO IS COMING Children's Book


We love the book Look Who Is Coming!  It is such a cute book for any child but the story of how it was created for a son with Autism is inspiring to all parents.   Parents Magazine loved the book so much that they included it their April Issue. 

Zuma, the book's author, just wrote us this note about seeing her book on the pages of a national magazine:

They featured the book under health/autism - did a such a neat job describing! It is on the bottom corner, and the photo of the book is so clear and bright, can't miss it! Thanks so much!!!


Wow, it felt weird to read our names ... But I can get used to it :))))

Thanks again,


Zuma

WHAT A WEEK....

One of things we love most about this business is that you NEVER know what the next day is going to bring... We had a great week here at TO Media Co., with exciting requests and inquiries for all of our clients from the likes of Family Circle, Parenting, two national radio shows and Lifetime television.  So exciting!!

And tomorrow night we will top off this incredible week with the Inaugural House Party for O-MAMA.com at the home of founder Michelle Tingler with some of OC's outstanding Opinionated MAMAs and a whole lot of great conversation and fun. Can't wait to celebrate!! To learn more about O-MAMA and how you can host your own O-MAMA House Party with the opinionated moms in your life, log on to www.o-mama.com.


On top of all the excitement, we helped out our favorite Nashville-based PR company Triple7 PR (http://www.triple7pr.com/ - we love you Carrie and Ashley) with a little shoot for The Doctors with celebrity chef and author Rocco DeSpirito.  Such a pleasure to work with him again as well as the fantastic team from The Doctors! You HAVE to check out Rocco's latest cookbook, titled Now Eat This... it is packed full of healthy eating tips and fantastic healthy "makeovers" for some of America's all-time favorite recipes (Fried Chicken, Macaronit and Cheese and even Mayonaise get the full nutritional treatment!) and is climbing the bookselling charts like a rocket!!  I can't wait to try a few myself.  Check back for tune-in info on the episode.

Happy Friday Everyone!  Hope this great momentum rolls right through the weekend...




Send a Little St. Patrick's Day Love!!


LovingYou.com shares 9 Romantic St. Patrick’s Day Gifts including GREEN ROSES from California Blooms!  http://www.lovingyou.com/articles/romance/9-romantic-st-patricks-day-gifts/  Thanks Melissa!!


You can share the love at http://www.californiablooms.com/ or dowload the new CalBlooms iPhone App and get 20% off your first order!  http://www.itunes.com/app/californiablooms

RAISING HAPPY BLENDED FAMILIES

Step Moms and Divorced Moms Come Together on O-MAMA.com
To Create The New Rules For Raising Families in 2010


San Clemente, CA - Just like Republicans and Democrats, there are other groups of people who are reaching across the "aisle" to solve the issues that matter most to our kids...and our country. On www.O-MAMA.com, step-moms and divorced moms are coming together to share their opinions on raising a family 2010-style.

“I love that O-MAMA has become a place where moms can safely seek advice from other moms, step-moms or even grandmothers.” Says O-MAMA.com founder Michelle Tingler. “We all want the best for our children and our families. Conversations on our site, like the ones occurring between stepmoms and divorced moms, is truly the best example of how to have change begin at home.”

According to the chat rooms on O-MAMA, “men/dads/ex-husbands/new husbands have an uncanny ability to assume that things will magically fall into place with little intervention on their part… they aren’t the most successful at providing support on the onset of these mom/stepmom relationships.” (yogamama) So moms and stepmoms have to team up to make things work. Here is what Opinionated MAMAs think about raising a blended family:

Opinion #1 from the MAMAs: TREAT THE STEP-MOM LIKE A HUMAN BEING. “I can't tell you how many stepmoms I know who recount stories of the mom literally looking over them, through them, under them in an attempt to invalidate them. Stepmoms are nervous as hell to meet mom! (Just as I'm sure mom is as nervous to meet the stepmom.),” says ‘yogamama’. O-MAMA Lesson for our kids: Treat others how you would like to be treated.


Opinion #2: STOP LOOKING AT EACH OTHER AS "THE OTHER WOMAN" - This is more easily said than done, but if you start with this simple premise, the family purpose and mission becomes clearer and the humanity between the two women will have a fighting chance of surfacing. The kids will also feel the difference if you get rid of the tension right away and see each other with more compassion and not as “the other woman.” When there's innate competition, division and emphasis on differences, you get tension and stunted growth on all fronts. “[Moms] don't want to be wicked and step moms don't want to be wicked either… (but) we don't have to go Disney in real life.” says ‘debomama’. She is right. Being friendly, positive and open doesn’t mean you need to be best friends. If you find yourself in a challenging conversation or situation, smile and count to three before you respond. O-MAMA Lesson for our kids: Walk a mile in the someone else's shoes.

Opinion #3: BE ON THE SAME TEAM. Communication is key if you want to give kids the best opportunity at being well-adjusted growing up in two households. Understand you are both taking on some very challenging roles and are probably charting a new path. As ‘stepmama’ says, “Our kids need us to figure out how to be on the same team.” Coordinate calendars and define roles so you aren’t doubling up efforts or stepping on anyone’s toes. O-MAMA Lesson for our kids: There is no "I" in team.

To get in on the conversations:
http://www.o-mama.com/chat_rooms/discuss/divorced-moms
http://www.o-mama..com/chat_rooms/discuss/step-moms

Kellie Swaim from Bravo Sports To Be In Orange Coast Magazine


Some people have style. 

Kellie Swaim from Bravo Sports has tons of style.  Her girly rocker chic shows off how stylish she is.  Her look caught the eye of Chris Christensen at Orange Coast, who recently had a photo shoot with Kellie. 

Chris says: "She’s in the April issue...looks really cute...Thanks again for the suggestion. You were right on!"

Can't wait for the April issue!

SOCIAL-IZING HEALTHCARE

MOMS ON O-MAMA.COM CAPITALIZE ON SOCIAL MEDIA TO SHARE HEALTH TIPS WITH OTHER WOMEN

San Clemente, CA – While Americans are still debating the solution to mounting healthcare costs and rising numbers of uninsured, moms on O-MAMA.com, short for Opinionated Mama, are socializing healthcare through social media.

“As women and mothers, our first priority is the health and well-being of our families and we are thrilled to witness mothers coming together to share their questions, fears, discoveries and generations of knowledge about women’s health on our website,” says O-MAMA.com founder Michelle Tingler

Inside the O-MAMA chat rooms moms have been discussing and sharing insight and info on everything from flu shots and the HPV Virus to breast cancer. One user states, “…over the last few years, my husband and I have been getting our information from sites and books and sadly, you will never hear or see this information on regular mainstream media…”

TIPS/QUOTES FROM CHAT ROOMS: When it comes to your health, O-MAMAs say:

Tip #1 from moms – SHARE AND SHARE ALIKE – When it comes to information that is! It’s tough to keep up with the myriad of information being thrown at us about everything from vaccines to cancer, but when you do discover an important truth, share it with others. Whether this knowledge is gained from personal experience (my son/daughter had that last month) or the advice of an expert (my doctor told me…), we all benefit from communicating this information with other women and mothers in our community. You never know if you might help someone down the road.

“So here's the latest update on pap smears (just what you wanted on a Monday morning!): Latest guidelines are NO pap until 21 years old. None. Nothing. Nada.” (Tmama)

Tip #2 – TALK TO THE DOC – While some of our members are in fact physicians, the overwhelming consensus is that regardless of what reports you read or what your friends (or fellow O-MAMA’s) say, ultimately you have to take what you’ve learned and talk to your doctor. And if you aren’t satisfied with the answer… get a second opinion.

“I am printing out this discussion thread and taking it to the pediatrician...I am going to take O-MAMAs advice and "talk to my doc" about it...I think we all should go in armed with info and ask questions. Thanks for all the info. You go girls!” (Tiredmama)


Tip #3 – AN APPLE A DAY – Another age old adage that holds true today. Moms know that a healthy diet is the key to overall health, but as many O-MAMAs and doctors have stated, a healthy diet can also be the key to preventing and curing cancer, diabetes, heart disease and many of the other diseases that are virtual epidemics in our society today.

“Whole foods are our best friend and nature gave us many cures that many people just don't know about. And ladies, you may want to change your deodorant and switch to one that is aluminum-free. I have more to say, but, I think I'll share as I go :) Take care!! (Tuskismom)

O-MAMA invites you to share your opinions:
http://www.o-mama.com/chat_rooms/discuss/health

We LOVE A Thank You

One of our favorite morning TV news personalities, Jane Monreal, left early morning wake up calls to start her own company - enCOMPASS ENTERTAINMENT with another super talented entertainment vetran Rosemary Jimenez. 

This last holiday season, we were honored when they called on us to work with beauty guru Louisa Maccan Graves, author of Hollywood Beauty Secrets.    We had a super fun morning with the hard working, hilarious Allie MacKay from KTLA where Louisa showed offer her beauty tips and homemade recipes.

Shortly after, we recieved a note from Rosemary and Jane thanking us (How nice is that!? That is why we love them!) "Thank you for your services and energy with Louisa Maccan Graves.... Continued success and we hope to partner with you again."

A Little Love Coming TO Media Co's Way!

In public relations 2010-style, a lot of the relationships we make are over the internet, e-mail, facebook, twitter.... you get the idea.  Even though we never meet some of the editors and reporters that we work with face to face, we still love when you become friends and work together well.  One of our favorites is Teri Freeman at Cooking with Paula Deen magazine.
 
Here is a note that she just sent us this morning....

"Allison, I love working with you! Send me any ideas you have!!"

We LOVE working with you too!  Thanks, Teri!

GET TO THE HEART OF THE CONVERSATIONWITH 10 TIPS ON HOW TO TALK WITH KIDS, INSTEAD OF AT THEM

O-MAMA says: “Say What You Mean and Mean What You Say”. O-MAMA.com, short for Opinionated Mom, is a new online resource for news and events from a mom’s perspective.

Founder, Michelle Tingler says, “We believe ‘Opinionated Mamas’ can be a constructive voice in sorting out the social and political issues of our time and that together, with a little humor and a lot of common sense, America's moms can get to the heart of the issues that matter most to our kids and our country. Most importantly, moms need to know how to communicate these issues to our kids, so that the lessons we are conveying stick with them as they grow, so they will be happy, healthy, well-adjusted citizens. We need to make sure CHANGE BEGINS AT HOME."

Here are O-MAMA’s founders, Michelle Tingler and Debbie Devine, top 10 tips to effectively communicate with your kids:

1. KEEP IT SIMPLE:
Communication is key in any relationship, but it has to be really straight-forward, clear and consistent when you are talking to your kids. So, "say what you mean." Think about what you want them to DO, and then express it clearly, simply and concisely. Otherwise, they tune out and hear wah, wah, wah. When dealing with kids, it’s best to just lay it out there and not leave it up to interpretation. No beating around the bush. No hemming and hawing.

2. GET ON THEIR LEVEL:
Make sure you and your child are physically on the same level, so everyone is eye to eye when speaking. Otherwise, they'll get distracted looking at your zipper! Also, eyeball to eyeball says you mean business and you can be sure they've gotten the message.

3. ALLOW FOR LISTENING:
Speak slowly enough for them to be able to take in what you are saying. When you are finished, ask them if they’ve understood what has been said. If they are unclear, ask them to explain what they think you said...it's kind of like the game telephone...try not to laugh!

4. THERE ARE TWO SIDES TO EVERY STORY:
Take into consideration their point of view. Everyone has their unique perspective on any given subject and kids are no different. They might have an interesting insight into how they perceive the issue, how they felt at the time or what might work for them next time in terms of keeping themselves in line. Their solution might be totally off base, or might have some merit. At least be open to hearing their side because it will empower them to communicate better...and that might even encourage them to behave better.

5. MESSAGE RECEIVED
Give them a chance to acknowledge the message. It makes children and adults alike feel good to be heard, and a simple acknowledgement like “I understand what you said” or even an “I heard you, but I disagree” helps further communication.

6. DO YOUR HOMEWORK
When stating an opinion on an issue, or explaining why something could be harmful be prepared to back it up, especially when dealing with teenagers. Do your homework. Know the subject in and out. Have some examples to throw out...fancy stats are good, but pictures are worth a thousand words! (i.e., when talking about the importance of safe driving, show them a picture of a car wreck). Earn respect by demonstrating that consideration has been given as to why this is a “big deal.”

7. FOLLOW THROUGH
“Mean what you say.” Do not make idol threats. When outlining consequences to a behavior, make sure they are realistic and be prepared to follow through. Consistency is key. If the follow through is wishy washy, it will not be credible.

8. SET THE EXAMPLE
Good communication requires both parties, regardless of age...pecking order...relationship, using and demonstrating common sense and mutual respect. “Do as I say and not as I do,” does not get the job done with kids. Be prepared to talk the talk and walk the walk.

9. DON’T TO BE AFRAID TO SAY NO
Remember, you don’t have to be their friend, they don’t have to always like us, they just need to know we love them all the time, and sometimes that means saying "NO!” Sometimes saying no can be the most loving thing you can do.

10. MOM KNOWS BEST
Go with your gut. No one knows your kids like you do. You know what’s in their best interest, so be confident in what and how you communicate.


To see Michelle and Debbie in action, click here to view their latest video:


http://www.o-mama.com/videos

MAKE YOUR HOUSE THE COOLEST ON THE BLOCK

Top 10 Summer Must-Haves from Sporting Goods Leader Bravo Sports

When it comes to having fun outside, Bravo Sports Corp, the global leader in retail sporting goods markets, can turn your house into THE summer hot spot on your block with their Top 10 Summer Products for kids, tweens, teens and even the young at heart. With over 2000 products ranging from in-line skates to beach accessories, instant canopies to pogo sticks, Bravo Sports can get the whole family equipped for summer fun.

“Each parent has one goal – they want to get the most bang for their buck when it comes to buying toys and recreational items for their kids,” says Bravo Sports CEO Tony Armand. “They want to buy products that kids love to play with over and over and over again. We at Bravo Sports strive to make products that are fun, engaging and get kids outside.”


1. 12’ Trampoline: Every cool house needs one of these. Kids love it and know exactly what to do no matter what age they are. Hours of jumping fun for all ages, learn new tricks and exercise at the same time. $300


2., 3., 4. Skateboards and ramps and rails: Instead of playing video games, the kids can have their own mini skate park at home. This is a great way for the neighbor kids to interact and become friends. It doesn’t matter if you are into Barbie, SpongeBob or Tony Hawk. We have a skateboard for all levels of experience and all ages. (pictured: Tony Hawk Birdhouse Skateboards ($80-$100), X Games Skate Ramp ($39.99) and Kinked Grind rail ($44.99).

5. Monster Pogo – A retro favorite with 2010 technology, this new pogo stick will keep kids busy and laughing as they bounce. $39.99

6. Extreme scooters like the Slither Drift Scooter: A whole new level fun. Drift around corners, slide side to side, propel yourself without kicking, tear in and out of turns. It is the update to the ordinary scooter. Even though some younger kids can rider this scooter, this is perfect for kids 8 years and up who want to try out some new tricks. $59.99

7. Bubble scooter: Who doesn’t like bubbles? Perfect for the younger set, they can watch bubbles float in the air as they scoot down the sidewalk. $42.99

8. Tuscany Cabana – A perfect place for an outdoor picnic in your own backyard while protecting the kids from the sun. Also provides instant ambiance for backyard parties and summer dinners. $229.00

9. Quik Shade GO Hybrid Backpack Canopy and coordinating Quik Shade™ Articulating Canopy Chair – The first canopy designed for individual use. So light and compact, it will go with you everywhere from the beach to the soccer field – you can even wear it riding a bike!($79.99) Coordinating Articulating Canopy Chair ($39.99)

10. Convertible Trainer Skates -The new 2-1 Trainer Skates are great for beginners ($24.99). Available at Toys R Us in September, they come in the following themes: Cars and Disney Princesses