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Community Corner

Grab 'n Go Kids Planner: Dollar Movies and Discount Train Rides

School is officially out, and with this comes mixed feelings for some. Trying to keep the kids busy without losing your mind? Check out this week's planner and kick off your summer with some fun events for kids of all ages.

Where/When: Regal Cinemas, 26602 Towne Center Drive, Foothill Ranch. Begins Tuesday, June 21. Every Tuesday and Wednesday at 10 a.m. through summer.

Why Go: The Regal summer movie program is back by popular demand! Though admission was free in summers past, $1 is still quite a bargain considering a matinee costs more than a sit-down lunch these days. Each Tuesday and Wednesday, choose from two G or PG movies; Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Megamind, Gulliver’s Travels and Marmaduke are just a few of the choices this summer. Check website for details; arrive a few minutes early to ensure seating.

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Pricing: $1 per person admission.

TEEN SUMMER READING PROGRAM

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Where/When: Rancho Santa Margarita Library. Begins Monday, June 27.

Why Go: Teens age 12-17 are encouraged to stop by their local library June 27 and pick up a summer reading log. The assignment is simple and fun: go home, read and return the log for cool prizes all summer long!

Pricing: FREE

AMERICAN GIRL SUMMER CAMP

Where/When: South County Activity Center, 27635 Forbes Road, Suite M, Laguna Niguel. Tuesday, June 28, 2-5:30 p.m. thru rest of the week.

Why Go: Girls age 6-10 will love the 5th annual American Girl Camp, featuring all the beloved characters like Kit and Felicity from the American Girl book series. Activities include historical overview on different time periods, crafts, sculpting, cooking, sewing, vintage games and themed activities. Reservations required.

Pricing: $43.75/day or $175 per week.

DISCOUNT AMTRAK RIDES

Where/When: Various destinations; deal runs Tuesday through Friday.

Why Go: Children are fascinated with trains, whether it be watching them, playing with them or, best of all, riding on them. This summer, why not ditch the boring car ride and hop on the Amtrak for an unforgettable adventure? Board the train in Irvine and ride it down to San Juan Capistrano for the afternoon, or venture down to Old Town San Diego for the day. To receive 25 percent off fare, purchase must be made ahead of time online and must be booked for Tuesday through Friday.

Pricing: Varies. Tuesday through Friday, a fare from Irvine to San Juan Capistrano runs $10 per adult and $5 per child. Check website for more details.

PUMP IT UP SUMMER BASH

Where/When: Pump It Up, 26242 Dimension Drive, Suite 100, Lake Forest. Friday, June 24, 10-12 p.m.

Why Go: Kids can kick off summer with this Out of School Summer Bash, which includes pizza, drinks, games and more. Children age 11 and under can party like a pirate or be a superhero as they jump, slide and climb with special black lights and synched music in the background. Socks are required, as well as a parent present. Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made online.

Pricing: $12 per child.

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