For the last year or so, there has been a lot of chatter about climate change and how to combat it. From the banning of plastic straws in several places to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's Green New Deal, living a greener life has been the talk of the year. But how does one make a start to achieve this? There are many solutions, but one of the simplest, yet challenging option, is reducing the use of single-use plastic items.

Whether it is plastic bags in our landfills or plastic straws that made their way into our ocean, plastic pollution plagues our ecosystem. In 2011, the Plastic Free July initiative was created as a global movement that encourages its participants to refuse single-use plastics all through-out the month of July. Over the years, the initiative gained momentum due to the worldwide support for the cause. Millions vow to take the pledge and are up for the challenge. But what does it truly entail?

The idea of not using any plastic products for an entire month sounds impossible. But the whole point of the challenge is to replace single-use plastic products with reusable and sustainable alternatives. Wherever you go, try to utilize reusable products whether that's while you're at work, school or running errands. Eliminating plastic from your life is a daunting task since we rely on it so much. But do not let this discourage you, as long as you make an effort, you make an impact.

Here are the four easiest ways you can make a difference this July:

• Swap plastic bags for reusable canvas tote bags
• Opt for a reusable water bottle rather than multiple plastic bottles
• Utilize a reusable straw or go straw-less
• Bring in your own reusable cup to coffee shops or cafes instead of using a disposable one

Plastic has been in use since 1907 and appears to be the go to material for just about everything. Contrary to popular belief, it is not recyclable or biodegradable. Instead, the material sits in a landfill. Eventually, the plastic breaks down into little particles that pollute our soil and ocean. All of the plastic that has been created and used over the past century is still here on Earth. The UN currently estimates that there has been 8.3 billion tons of plastic produced since the 1950s. With all the amount of plastic currently on our planet, it is no wonder that the plastic free and zero waste lifestyle choices have become so popular.

If you already cut out single-use plastic items and want to challenge yourself more this July, here are some other things you can do to reduce your plastic usage:

• Avoid buying prepacked items in grocery store, instead choose loose products, bonus points if you have reusable produce bags!
• Say no to take out and yes to dine in, and bring your own container in case you don't finish your meal
• Stop using bin liners/trash bags, dump your waste right into the bin or try composting.
• Say goodbye to plastic food wrap, utilize reusable containers or invest in beeswax wrap

Besides reducing the amount of disposable plastic items we use in a month, the ultimate goal of Plastic Free July is to break some of these wasteful habits that we are all guilty of. Whether we like it or not, the little choices we make every day add up. By making the smallest changes, you can make a massive difference. Hopefully, this month long challenge will help you to find eco-conscious alternatives that can become second nature to you. If you wish to join the challenge, sign up on Plastic Free July's website.

One place that always goes all out during the holidays is Disneyland. On November 9th, Disney's Festival of Holidays returned to the California Adventure park in Anaheim. The Festival has two main attractions the marketplace and the entertainment. You will find a variety of dance, live music and a holiday-inspired performances throughout the park this holiday season. And like aways you can meet Santa Claus in the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail.

Along with the Festival of Holidays going on in California Adventure you can find Disney's ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party. Viva Navidad! has Donald Duck and the Three Caballeros bringing out some holiday cheer with festive puppets and the music of mariachi and samba musicians.

But what's the main attraction for the Festival of Holidays? THE FOOD! Just like last year, the Festive Food Marketplace is back, but with some changes. Each booth is completely different compared to last year and has a variety of options. Along with the the food vendors, the Market Place also has booths for Disney's holiday merchandise and speciality boutique pop-up shops. Here are all of the food stands that are part of this year's marketplace.

Merry Mashups has combined some of your favorite holiday classics. Here you can find the turkey & stuffing tamale with cranberry relish, lox & everything bagel nachos and even the hot cocoa marshmallow macaroon.

Winter Wonders has some feel good food that will make you feel warm and cozy. Here you can find the pumpkin soup with maple cashew cream, chana masala with grilled garlic naan and a vanilla cranberry trifle for dessert. I actually tried the chana masala and it was delicious! However, the serving size was on the small side and the "grilled" naan was cold.

Brews and Bites should just be called Brews and One Bite. The only food item on the menu is the chorizo queso fundido with house made tortilla chips. The rest of the menu is just the assortment of craft holiday brews. The best deal here is getting the alcohol flights, because you get a taste of four different brews.

At Favorite Things you'll find holiday ham shanks and Reuben potato tots to eat, but the real winners here are the eggnog cocktail and the cranberry sangria.

Holiday Duets has some interesting pairings here, the curry cauliflower soup is made with lamb and the shrimp and grits comes with sausage. Disney thinks they are perfect pairings, but I can't help but disagree. But you can't go wrong with the festive Mickey and Minnie Cookies here.

If you're looking for something sweet then Visions of Sugarplums is the stand for you. Here you'll find warm sticky toffee pudding, a white chocolate cranberry blondie, the eggnog wreath éclair and horchata fudge. Also here you'll find the Sweet Dreams and Milk Special, your choice of dessert and a carton of Horizon's organic milk. Yum!

At Blissfully Braised the name of the stand says it all. Here you'll find braised pork belly and cornbread cakes with braised collard greens and gravy.

Grandma's Recipes has your classic holiday treats like pot roast and candied yams. What you'll also find is what Grandma is drinking while she cooks. Here you can find cider and blonde ales that have a tart and fruity taste.

Spicy Celebrations is where you'll find hot fried turkey, jalapeño latkes and chocolate chipotle pot de crème. The real winner here is the pomegranate margarita.

A Twist on Tradition doesn't really seem that different to me, but maybe to some it can be seen as unconventional. Here you'll find pozole rojo beef with hominy polenta and “chicken-less” mole with Spanish rice. I honestly cannot wait to try the vegetarian mole! Also you can get the black forest yule log here.

The Winter Sliderland booth just reminds me of Thanksgiving. The turkey slider and stuffing mac and cheese just seems like some creative Thanksgiving leftovers to me. The only thing that throws off the Thanksgiving vibe is the milk chocolate-candy cane pot de crème dessert.

Making Spirits Bright is obviously the best booth in the Festive Food Market Place. Here you'll find a variety of wine, champagne, and even some festive mimosas. Make sure you get one of the Flights so you can sample three of the beverages. Yum!

If you plan on eating your way through the Festive Foods Marketplace then you might want to invest in the 2018 Disney Festival of Holidays Sip and Savor Pass. This pass comes with an official credential and lanyard and eight coupons that can be redeemed for food and beverages at select booths. The coupons do not work on alcohol and you get one coupon per booth essentially. The pass is $54 total, so if you plan on eating at all of the stands this might be a good investment.

Personally, I love holidays at the Disney parks. Something about the Disney Christmas magic just makes me feel so warm and fuzzy inside. The Festival of Holidays is a great addition to the park, however there's one thing about it that really grinds my gears. While the food is tasty, the portions are just way too small for the price paid. But hey that's just me. What do you think about the Festival of Holidays this year? Let me know! Until tomorrow.

December is one of the most romantic months out there. Sure, February gets a lot of the romance credit because of Valentine's Day but think about it, Christmas and holiday romances are a thing. There have been so many movies made about winter romances. Winter brings colder weather and longer nights, which leads to more time for snuggling with your loved one.

Now, sometimes the holiday season isn't always as warm and fuzzy like the romantic comedies always display. Sure we all get busy during this time of the year, but it is really important to make time for the ones you love. Here are some fun date ideas to have with your significant other this holiday season!

Walk Around and Look at Holiday Lights. Many neighborhoods go all out on their holiday decorations, so why not take the time to go admire their work with your loved one? You can explore your local area or go somewhere new! Play some holiday music on the way to your destination and bring some hot chocolate or apple cider to enhance the experience.

Have a Snow Day. When we think of winter, all snow activities come to mind. So if you're lucky enough to live in an area where you can experience snow take advantage of it! Build a snowman, go sledding, have a snowball fight or even make snow angels! All of these activities can be super fun to do with your partner.

Attend a Christmas Concert or Play. No matter where you are you can always find a local Christmas concert during this time of the year. Some of the most popular things to see are A Christmas Carol or The Nutcracker. If you're on a tight budget and can't afford tickets to a fancy concert or play, check to see if any nearby schools are putting on any holiday shows.

See the Zoo Lights. Most major zoos all around the United States have been participating in this ever popular phenomenon. The zoos decorate with dazzling light displays, festive decor, and holiday music all around the property. Some even offer special holiday exhibits!

Go to a Theme Park. Theme parks go all out during the holidays! From festive decorations and food to holiday themed rides, this could be a fun adventure with your significant other. The only downside is that this option can be a bit pricey.

Ice Skating. This is the most classic holiday season date out there. Ice Skating dates are a staple in holiday romance movies. This very active activity can be fun to do with a partner. Plus you'll have someone to help keep you balanced the entire time.

Enjoy a Holiday Beverage Together. Coffee dates are so underrated! There's nothing more intimate than grabbing a beverage at a coffee shop and sitting and chatting with someone. So many coffee shops have holiday beverages out during this time of the year. Why not spend an afternoon with your loved one drinking some tasty holiday beverages and have some great conversations. If you can't sit for long or want to be active, take your cups to go and go for a walk.

Go Christmas Shopping Together. While this sounds like a terrible idea, this might be the most practical date you and your significant other can do this holiday season. Let's face it, Christmas shopping is horrible. So why not make the most of it and make it a date too? You both have to do some shopping this holiday season, so why not do it together? Plus you can enjoy holiday decorations at the shopping centers and malls and maybe grab a bite to eat after!

Attend a Tree Lighting. Christmas Tree Lighting ceremonies have become more and more popular every year. For some cities, it's their main event during the holiday season and they go all out. If a tree lighting ceremony is going on near you, why not take your special someone and make it a romantic night out.

Watch a Holiday Movie. Curling up on a couch and watching a holiday movie with your loved one is a simple and easy date to do during this time of the year. The only downside is that it may not feel like a date, it might be something you do every night. Some movie theaters will play classic and favorite holiday movies throughout this time of the year. So if watching a holiday movie on the big screen sounds perfect for you, check out what your local movie theater is offering this holiday season!

Volunteer. If you and your partner love to give back to your community why not spend the holiday season volunteering together? It can be something as simple as collecting canned goods for a food bank or putting together gifts for organizations like Toys For Tots. If you and your partner feel like doing more, volunteer your time and spend the day at a place like a homeless shelter or senior center. Giving back while spending time with your partner will make you both feel great!

Now these ideas are not limited to couples only. Spending time with friends is also important, and any of these dates can be a great activity for some best friend quality time. What is important to remember is to make time for the people you care about in your life. Now go enjoy yourself and spend some time with the ones you care about! Until tomorrow.

Everyone knows that Baseball is around the corner once Spring Training approaches. And ever since last year, the Angels have hosted Moving Day to celebrate the big move from Angel Stadium to Tempe Diablo Stadium. Which is only a mere 365 miles away!

This year, the big celebration was on February 11 behind left field and near Tunnel B in the Angel Stadium parking lot from noon to 2:30 pm.

The event was sponsored by Old Dominion and one of their trucks was present front and center. While the other Old Dominion trucks were being packed up with equipment to send off to Arizona.

Also at the event, fans could receive autographs from past and present Angels players, such as Garret Anderson, Chuck Finley, and Tyler Skaggs. However, if you wanted an autograph you had to be in line HOURS before the event started. By the time I showed up (around noon) the autograph line wrapped all the way around towards the front of the stadium. Not to mention that only an estimate of 200 people received wristbands and were guaranteed autographs. Every one else in line had to hope that time did not run out on them.

Along with the autographs, special appearances were made by the Angels' Strike Force Girls, AM 830's Roger Lodge, and Angels Weekly's Alex Curry. Roger Lodge and Alex Curry hosted a Q&A with the three players after the signing. Alex Curry also shot a Angels Weekly episode and mingled with fans. Roger Lodge also mingled with fans and brought raffle prizes to give away. These prizes included a Mike Trout signed bat, a Mike Scioscia signed baseball, a CJ Cron signed jersey, and various other prizes.

But the raffle prizes were not the only prizes to be won at Moving Day, in fact there were also several games to play for free. There was a pitching game where participants received an Angels poster and the ever famous prize wheel. If you landed on grand slam you won a prize, some of the prizes were past promotion items from last season, like bobbleheads, hats, t-shirts, and etc. There were also t-shirts from the AM 830 radio station to win. Also a new game, a claw machine, was present and it was called Social Catch. In short, if you posted the hashtag #Road2Tempe on social media you got a chance to play the claw machine. Inside the claw machine there were hats, t-shirts, and various other items up for grabs. Also all participants received a stuffed baseball just for playing.

After the event, the Old Dominion truck took off and headed straight to Tempe, which means baseball is officially back. Since the truck arrived, so have the players and workouts and warm ups have officially begun. Spring Training games are just around the corner and soon enough Opening Day will be upon us!

Overall, the event was good. It mainly was an autograph event rather than a celebration for the upcoming season. So if you're an autograph seeker, this event was perfect for you. Or if you love to try to win free Angels stuff, then this event is also for you. But other than that, there was not much going on unless you like $6 lemonade and snacks. Let's hope next year's Moving Day is bigger and better than before!

Until next time.

On July 17, 1955, the Disneyland resort in Anaheim, California was opened by Walt Disney himself. Today, Disneyland celebrates its 60th birthday. The park has gone all out to prepare for the Diamond Celebration. For the big birthday, there have been some changes made to the park and they will be around all year long. Banners with diamonds hang along Main Street, classic characters from Mickey to Pluto all received dazzling new outfits fit for a extravagant celebration and even Sleeping Beauty's castle got an upgrade. Would you expect anything less from this million dollar resort? Of course not.

Disneyland started prepping for this magical birthday back in May, diamonds emerged all around the park. There were also new shows added, like the new Paint the Night parade and the Disneyland Forever firework show. Now I've only see parts of both of these shows (I'll get a better look at them in September when my pass lets me go again) and from what I've seen both of these shows look amazing. There is also a brand new World of Color show in California Adventure, I haven't seen that yet either but I look forward to seeing it!

If you attended the park today, you received a complimentary cupcake and pin confirming that you indeed were there today. Also if you were lucky and important enough, you could hear a replay of Walt Disney's Disneyland opening day speech in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle.

When Disneyland first opened 60 years ago, it was only 160 acres and cost $17 million to build, and it only cost $1 for adults and 50 cents for a child. Oh how the times have changed. Today, there are two parks that cover way more than 160 acres and it costs an adult $99 to visit one park one day, and $155 to visit both parks on a one day ticket. If you are a child (under the age of 10) it costs $93 for one park and $149 to visit both parks on a one day ticket.

But thankfully, they do have annual passes. I'm fortunate enough to have one, so I can experience the magic year round. Disneyland means a lot to me. Growing up, I remember going to the parks all the time with my family and as I grew up I got to experience it with other people who mean a lot to me. Disneyland will always hold a special place in my heart and I'll alway love it (even though pretty soon I won't be able to afford to love it anymore). I cherish every visit and I'll continue to make memories there for the rest of my life.

Happy Birthday Disneyland and to many more magical years. I know you'll continue to amaze and dazzle all of us. As Walt Disney once said:

"Disneyland will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world."