September 2015 - On the Go in MCO

2015 Epcot Food And Wine Festival: 9 Things To Eat and Drink

With so many great things to choose from at this year’s Epcot Food and Wine Festival, it was really wonderful to be able to attend a brunch held by Walt Disney World to try some of this year’s food items and beverages.

So what are we waiting for?

9 Things to Eat and Drink at the 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival:

You have to give the Loaded mac n’ cheese with Nueske’s® pepper bacon, cheddar cheese, peppers and green onions from Farm Fresh a try! Do you want to know what is wrong with this mac n’ cheese? Nothing! Get one ASAP! ($4.25)

The Belgium waffle with berry compote and whipped cream in Belgium is always on my ‘Must Eat’ list, because it is just the right size and sweetness level to round out the savory dishes I tend to purchase during the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. This dish is Vegetarian. ($3.75)

The Escondidinho de carne, “Little Hidden One”, a layered meat pie with mashed yucca, available in Brazil has a cute name and a familiar, homey taste. This item is gluten free. ($5.00)

Now if I had to chose one dessert to eat for the rest of the Epcot Food and Wine Festival, the Caramel flan with rum-roasted pineapple from Dominican Republic would be my choice. The flan is light and airy, and the pineapple adds a great pop of acidity. This dish is vegetarian. ($3.25)

Love some ‘Shrimp on the Barbie’? The Grilled sweet and spicy bush berry shrimp with pineapple, peppers, onions, and snap peas from Australia is a lovely mix of flavors that you won’t want to pass up. This dish is gluten free.($4.75)

For those of you who love the liquid nitrogen craze, this year that a ‘smoking’ beverage is available on the promenade. The Smoking Hibiscus featuring Montelobos Mezcal Joven from the chew lab is an Alcoholic Beverage that is incredibly refreshing. And don’t forget to give the hibiscus bud a try! ($8.75)

New to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival this year is the Sustainable Chew, and their Pork Spareribs with red wine, fennel, and cheesy mascarpone grits does not disappoint. The fresh herbs cut through the smoke of the meat and add a great pop to the creamy grits. This dish is gluten free. ($5.50)

I have something to say…I love Yuca! The Soufflé de yuca: Yuca soufflé topped with griddled cheese from Dominican Republic is crazy! The firm griddled cheese with the creamy and slightly sharp yucca soufflé was an interesting and tasty combination. This dish is vegetarian. ($4.75)

I saved the best for last… My favorite alcoholic beverage at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival is the Frozen Chew-tini from Sustainable Chew! It has a great consistency, slightly sweet taste, and crunch from an apple chip garnish. Be warned…these bad boys are dangerous! ($7.50)

We will be bringing you more coverage of this year’s Epcot Food and Wine Festival, so make sure you follow our adventures on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

Loews Royal Pacific At Universal Orlando: Jake’s Beer Festival

Loews Royal Pacific at Universal Orlando Celebrates the Fall Season with Jake’s Beer Festival

Kick back and relax in a South Seas island paradise while experiencing a festival created for beer lovers, foodies and all who enjoy a good time. Enjoy more than 60 specialty craft beers, delicious food, live music by Beth McKee and more. Jake’s Beer Festival happens only twice each year and takes place under the outdoor Wantilan Pavilion at Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando.

Festival ticket: $35*
VIP ticket: $45*
All tickets include entry, beer, food, entertainment and self parking**.

Loews Royal Pacific at Universal Orlando – Jake’s Beer Festival Information:

What:

Loews Royal Pacific Resort celebrates the fall season with the second Jake’s Beer Festival of 2015.Guests can enjoy more than 60 craft and specialty beers, creative and tasty foods expertly prepared by the hotel’s award-winning chefs and live entertainment under the outdoor Wantilan Pavilion.Jake’s Beer Festival is an adults (21 and older) only event.

When:

Friday, October 9, 2015 from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Where:

Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando
6300 Hollywood Way
Orlando, Florida 32819

Menu:

For even more menu information, click here.

Wurst
Grilled Mini Bratwurst, Braised Red Cabbage, House Made Pumpernickel RollSauerbraten
Rich and Savory Braised Angus Beef scented with Juniper and Allspice, Thyme and Parsley Spätzle tossed with Emmantaler CheeseCharcutière
Cold Smoked Mahi Salad, Liverwurst, German Holsteiner Salami, Butter Kase, Smoked Gouda, Whole Grain Ale Mustard, Cornichons

Fresh Baked Soft Pretzels
Four Cheese Porter FondueChicken and Waffles
Crispy Chicken Cutlets with Fresh Made Waffles, Jalapeño GlazeMini Desserts
Dark Chocolate Cupcake – Nutella Filling, Cream Cheese Frosting.
Key Lime Strawberry Shot – Coconut Mousse, Almond Nougatine.
Apple Streusel Shot – Raisin and Pistachio.

Tickets:

Tickets are $35 on-line. Limited VIP tickets are $45 on-line only and include all the benefits of a regular Jake’s Beer Festival ticket, plus exclusive access to Jake’s Clipper Room, where guests can sample additional specialty craft beers, more generous pours and firkin first drafts, plus a collectible pint glass and other extras.To purchase tickets, log onto JakesBeerFestival.eventbrite.com. For more information, call 407-503-3200 or e-mail royalpacificconcierge@loewshotels.com.

The Orlando Eye Announces Florida Resident Rates

Florida residents can take in views of the sunshine state with special rates aboard the state’s newest attraction

The Orlando Eye will have Florida residents walking on sunshine with special rates to ride on the 400-foot observation wheel.

Now Florida residents can purchase flights on the Orlando Eye for $18 ($13 for children between the ages of 3-12) with proof of residency. This special offer saves visitors more than 25 percent off regular admission. For a limited time, tickets may be purchased at OfficialOrlandoEye.com or at the attraction’s admissions desk.

Things to know about the Florida Resident Offer at The Orlando Eye:

This offer is valid for Florida residents, with valid proof of residency, such as a state-issued ID, utilities or cable bill, bank statement, library card, or recent paystub.
Restrictions may apply.
Prices and hours subject to change without notice.
Attraction admission is not guaranteed and subject to availability.
The offer is not valid for premium products (Orlando Eye Flex ticket, VIP Experience or Private capsules).
This offer cannot be combined with any other offers or packages.

For more information on the Florida resident rate, or to view additional ticket packages, visit OfficialOrlandoEye.com.

About The Orlando Eye:

Located in the heart of International Drive, the 400-foot Orlando Eye is the tallest observation wheel on the U.S. eastern coast, offering a new way to experience the breathtaking views of Central Florida.

As a top visitor attraction for the tourism capital of the U.S., the new Orlando Eye, part of the I-Drive 360 entertainment and dining complex, showcases 360-degree views of Central Florida, including nearby theme parks and attractions, downtown Orlando and Kennedy Space Center on Florida’s east coast, all within the comfort of 30 air-conditioned glass capsules. Each capsule has room for up to 15 guests to enjoy a serene 20-minute journey above the scenic landscape.

Included in the Orlando Eye journey is access to the pre-flight 4D cinema experience, taking guests on a full 3D aerial journey of Florida, with the added dimension of sensory experiences, including lighting, wind, spray and scent effects. Visit OfficialOrlandoEye.com for more information.

2015 Brick or Treat at LEGOLAND Florida Resort Add sMore Halloween Fun

2015 Brick or Treat LEGOLAND Florida — Photo: LEGOLAND Florida

Brick or Treat Adds Even More Halloween Fun at LEGOLAND Florida Resort in 2015

Kid-Friendly Festivities to Include All-New Fireworks, Additional Dates, New Meet-and-Greets and a Stunning New LEGO Photo Op

This October, kids will discover even more Halloween fun at LEGOLAND^® Florida Resort during Brick or Treat, the popular, kid-friendly celebration included with theme park admission on select dates. Adding to the excitement this year are two event dates on select Fridays, an exclusive fireworks show, meet-and-greet opportunities with new LEGO Halloween characters and photo opportunities with an all-new, larger-than-life LEGO model created exclusively for Brick or Treat.

Offered every Saturday and Sunday in October, plus new Friday dates on Oct. 23 and 30, Brick or Treat features whimsical Halloween activities for kids throughout LEGOLAND Florida theme park. Highlights include:

The “Everything is Awesome Costume Contest” inside the Wells Fargo 4D Theater in Fun Town

Meet-and-greets with LEGO Halloween characters, including the Mad Scientist and Frank N. Stein – new this year!

Trick-or-treating along the Brick or Treat Trail for children 12 and under.
A scavenger hunt in Miniland USA that offers a collectible, limited-edition LEGO brick – with a new design released each weekend!

The popular – and delicious – Granny’s Apple Fries with a special pumpkin spice flavor – new this year!
Vladimir’s Castle takeover in LEGO Kingdoms – new this year!

Photo opportunities with the world’s largest LEGO pumpkin and a stunning, 13-foot-long “Vampyre Hearse” made of thousands of LEGO bricks – new this year!

Each event date will conclude with a dazzling, pirate-themed fireworks show in the skies above Lake Eloise. Complimentary 3-D glasses add a special LEGO twist to the colorful spectacle.

Guests at the brand-new LEGOLAND Hotel can extend the fun with Halloween-inspired food and beverage offerings such as “mocktails” mixed just for kids. Plus, themed prizes await kids in each guestroom — locked in a LEGO treasure chest that can only be opened during an in-room scavenger hunt.

“This is a Halloween celebration completely designed with kids in mind, one that’s unlike any other,” said Adrian Jones, general manager of LEGOLAND Florida Resort. “This year, we’re very excited to offer additional dates and an incredible Halloween-themed fireworks show, plus lots more all-new fun throughout the park. Families will find all the Halloween traditions they love in a style that’s authentically LEGO.”

2015 Brick or Treat Dates:

October 3-4 (Saturday & Sunday)
October 10-11 (Saturday & Sunday)
October 17-18 (Saturday & Sunday)
October 23-25 (Friday, Saturday & Sunday)
October 30-31 (Friday & Saturday)

For more information about

LEGOLAND Florida Resort, visit florida.legoland.com.

Special Thanksgiving Feast for Disney Vacation Club Members

Enjoy Thanksgiving as never at the

Disney Vacation Club Thanksgiving Feast

Disney Vacation Club Members can join together at a very special Thanksgiving dinner that’s part of Membership Magic, where they will cherish a holiday meal that evokes the warmth of our colonial history in a ballroom featuring Thanksgiving décor—including a replica of the Liberty Bell!

The Disney Vacation Club Thanksgiving Feast takes place on Thursday, November 26, 2015 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM Eastern Time in the Fantasia Ballroom at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

Mickey and the gang celebrating Thanksgiving Disney Vacation Club — Disney

Savor a delicious meal from a menu inspired by feasts of the pilgrim era:

Fresh Garden Greens, Cucumber, and Tomato Served with Herb Vinaigrette and Ranch Dressing
Spinach Apple Walnut Salad with Honey Vinaigrette
Roasted Buttered Corn
Green Bean Casserole
Mashed Potatoes
Sweet Potatoe Puree
Mac & Cheese
Traditional Bread Dressing
Mama’s Pot Roast with Pan Gravy
Carved Maple Glazed Turkey with Thyme Jus

Give thanks while you enjoy live entertainment and holiday-themed activities.

Enjoy some popular Disney Characters dressed in colonial attire and ready to join you for a family photo—yours to take home with our compliments.

Disney Vacation Club Thanksgiving Feast Info:

When:

Thursday, November 26, 2015
3:00 to 5:00 PM Eastern Time

Where:

The Fantasia Ballroom in Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Magic Kingdom Resort Area at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida

Price:

Adult: $68.60 (plus tax and gratuity)
Child: $30.50 (plus tax and gratuity)

Reservations:

Reservations are required for the Disney Vacation Club Thanksgiving Feast.
The booking window is open between Thursday, September 24, 2015 and Friday, November 20, 2015.
To make your reservation, please call Member Services at (800) 800-9800†

Important Information:

Full payment at the time of booking—with a credit card guarantee—is required.
Cancellations must be made 48 hours in advance to avoid surrendering the full payment.
Guest must be 21 years old with a photo ID to consume alcohol.
Disney Dining Plan entitlements cannot be used for this experience.
Culinary Magic Experiences are not eligible for any additional special offers or discounts, including the Disney Vacation Club Member 10% food and beverage discount.
Please allow up to 1.5 hours for travel to your destination.
Menu items, pricing and hours are subject to change without notice.
Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a paying participating parent or guardian.
A Disney Vacation Club Membership Card is required at Check-In.
Food allergies must be noted at the time of booking

Special offers are available to Members at various times. Members should visit the Disney Vacation Club website or contact Member Services for the most up-to-date information. To receive any of these offers, you must present your Disney Vacation Club Membership Card along with corresponding valid photo ID. Disney Vacation Club Member discounts cannot be used in conjunction with any other discounts or Membership promotions. Offers valid through December 31, 2015, unless otherwise noted. Some offers are through third-party providers. All offers are subject to availability, change, and/or termination without notice. You should not purchase a real estate interest in a Disney Vacation Club Resort in the reliance upon the confirmed availability, renewal or extension of these offers.

Bring Home LEGO STAR WARS: The New Yoda Chronicles On DVD Today

Bring Home LEGO STAR WARS: The New Yoda Chronicles On DVD Today

Unleash the lighter side of the Force and share all of the action packed thrills of these interlocking, intergalactic adventures!

Your favorite Star Wars heroes are back with four complete episodes (plus a bonus alternate ending!) that unleash the lighter side of the Force.

After headstrong Luke nearly delivers the good guys into Palpatine’s clutches, Master Yoda and the ghost of Obi-Wan Kenobi unearth the Holocrons – last remnants of the secrets of the Jedi – to further Luke’s training. But Darth Vader also seeks the Holocrons, and he’ll stop at nothing to get to them first! Meanwhile, courageous superclone Jek-14, a Force-sensitive clone, comes out of retirement to help bolster the Rebels. Share all the action-packed thrills of these interlocking, intergalactic adventures in LEGO STAR WARS: The New Yoda Chronicles!

LEGO Star Wars: The New Yoda Chronicles features Eric Bauza (Spongebob Movie, Ben 10: Omniverse, Batman: Assault on Arkham) as Luke Skywalker/Porkins Pilot; Michael Daingerfield (Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, Catwoman) as Han Solo/Admiral Ozzel/Biggs Pilot; Anthony Daniels (Star Wars Franchise) as C-3PO; Trevor Devall (Kid vs. Kat, Johnny Test) as Emperor Palpatine/Admiral Piett/Admiral Ackbar.

The four episodes included in the LEGO STAR WARS: The New Yoda Chronicles are:

Escape From The Jedi Temple
Race For The Holocrons
Raid on Coruscant
Clash of the Skywalkers

You will even find the Bonus Feature Alternate Ending for the Clash of the Skywalkers Episode, where you will find out if Luke will win against the Sith Lord or will Vader be victorious.

10 Things To Know On The Go: 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival

The 20th Epcot Food and Wine Festival kicks off tomorrow and runs until November 16, 2015 and with so many new offerings (and days) added to the festivities I thought it was time for…

10 Things To Know On The Go:

2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival

1. Admission

Admission to the 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival is included with your daily admission to Epcot. And while the food, beverages, seminars, and other special events aren’t included there is a lot that is!

During the Epcot Food and Wine Festival you can enjoy Eat to the Beat Concerts, the new Back to Basics Series at the Festival Center, Celebrity Chef demonstrations, Celebrity Chef Book Signings, Marketplace Discovery Passport, and Festival Center entertainment & exhibits.

2. Marketplaces

It’s a good thing that the Epcot Food and Wine Festival is 53 days this year, because the Festival will feature 30 unique global marketplaces, located around Epcot’s World Showcase and for the first time in Future World, where you can try small plates of food and beverage pairings from around the world.

And before you explore, visit the Epcot Food and Wine Festival Center to pick up your Marketplace Discovery Passport to collect stamps and pick up a Festival Gift Card that you can conveniently wear around your wrist to make paying convenient.

3. Festival Center

The core of the 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival can be found in the Festival Center located in the former Wonders of Life Pavilion.

You’ll find shopping, celebrities, demonstrations, exhibits, and more inside the Festival Center! I always like to start my visits at the Center to make sure I don’t miss anything!

Check out all the great things you will be able to find in the Festival Center here.

4. Eat to the Beat Concert Series

This year’s Eat to the Beat Concert Series is full of great new artists and bands!,

Take a peek at the Eat to the Beat Concert Line-up:

David Cook – September 25-27, 2015
Wilson Phillips – September 28-29, 2015
Christopher Cross – September 30-October 1, 2015
Starship – October 2-4, 2015
Smash Mouth – October 5-7, 2015
The Pointer Sisters – October 8-9, 2015
38 Special – October 10-11, 2015
Rick Springfield – October 12-13, 2015
Sugar Ray – October 14-16, 2015
The S.O.S. Band – October 17-18, 2015
Air Supply – October 19-21, 2015
Fuel – October 22-23, 2015
Tiffany (NEW!) – October 24-25, 2015
Dennis DeYoung – October 26-28, 2015
Jo Dee Messina – October 29-30, 2015
Everclear (NEW!) – October 31-November 1, 2015
Boyz II Men – November 2-4, 2015
Sister Hazel – November 5-6, 2015
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy – November 7-9, 2015
Hanson – November 10-12, 2015
Maxi Priest (NEW!) – November 13-14, 2015
Chaka Khan (NEW!) – November 15-16, 2015

Daily show times for the Eat to the Beat Concert Series take place at 5:30 pm, 6:45 pm, and 8:00 pm in the American Gardens Theater.

Also new this year is the opportunity to book FastPass+ for the Eat to the Beat Concerts!

Note: All entertainment and artist appearances are subject to change without notice.

5. NEW: Remy’s Hide & Squeak

Building on the past success of the sticker based scavenger hunts in World Showcase, beginning September 25, while supplies last, take part in Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak and help Remy as he ventures around World Showcase at Epcot collecting ingredients for his signature dish, Ratatouille.

Maps and stickers can be purchased for $7.95, plus tax at Epcot – Disney Traders, Festival Center, Pin Central, Port of Central, Port of Entry, and World Traveler (International Gateway) in the park.

Note: Maps, stickers and surprise available while supplies last. No discounts apply. Purchasing limits may apply.

Whether you choose to search for each ingredient or not, return your map to the redemption location at Port of Entry by November 16, 2015 at Port of Entry to pick up your surprise pin!

6. Cranberry Bog

After taking a year off the Ocean Spray Cranberry Bog is back!

You can find the mobile Ocean Spray Cranberry Bog in its old place on the way to Future World as you walk to World Showcase from Spaceship Earth.

Make sure you take a moment to talk to the actual Ocean Spray farmers that you can often find in their waders inside who are excited to share their passion for this unique form of farming.

7. NEW: Rockin’ Burger Bash

New to the Festival line-up of premium events this year is the Rockin’ Burger Block Party.

Party the night away and savor specialty sliders and beverages created by Epcot Chefs and inspired by recording artists who have left their mark on the world of potables.

While you enjoy these scrumptious treats, a DJ spins their best tracks. Find “your” burger, “your” drink, “your” music, and then vote on your favorite burger of the night!

For one night only, October 8, 2015, the Emmy-winning talent from the daytime hit The Chew will serve as block party hosts!

You can find out more about how to attend this new party experience here.

8. Learn from Epcot Chefs and Celebrity Chefs

At the Epcot Food and Wine Festival you have the chance to learn from some of the most famous kitchens (including Epcot), restaurants, and cooking shows. These individuals make up an unbeatable collection of leading culinary experts.

Through special dining events and demonstrations, Guests will get the rare opportunity to see their magnificent skills in action and pick up tips from these maestros of mealtime.

You can find the full list of Chefs here, and events for chefs will vary. See the full schedule of events for details. Appearances are subject to change.

9. The Chew

For the first time ABC’s “The Chew” is leaving its Manhattan to broadcast from the 20th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

The Emmy-Award Winning lifestyle series will tape five shows with co-hosts Mario Batali, Michael Symon, Carla Hall, Clinton Kelly, and Daphne Oz on October 7, 8 & 9 to air during the week of October 12 -16 on “The Chew.”

And while tickets may be sold out, you have a few more days to enter tickets from icFlorida!

10. Chase Lounge

If you are a Chase cardholders, you can visit the Chase Lounge in the American Adventure where you can grab a complimentary soft drink and try some interactive fun.

And these 10 Things To Know: 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival are just the tip of the iceberg! We’ll be bringing you tons of coverage during the Festival, so make sure you follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

Krispy Kreme Supports Kids’ Sweet Dreams

Krispy Kreme Customers Can Make an In-Store Donation to Give Kids The World Village

Central Florida’s Krispy Kreme locations are helping to make kids’ sweet dreams come true. In partnership with Give Kids The World Village, the Winter Park, Millenia, Kissimmee, Melbourne and Daytona Beach Krispy Kreme shops are collecting donations to benefit children with life-threatening illnesses.

“We consider it a privilege to support Give Kids The World Village,” says Jenny Bellanca, vice president of operations for Florida Family Foods LLC. “Krispy Kreme is proud and inspired by this important community partnership that will help make children’s dreams come true while fostering hope and happiness for their families.”

Now through October 16, 2015, Krispy Kreme customers have the opportunity to make a $1 or $5 donation at checkout. A paper heart pin-up certificate will be displayed in-store throughout the campaign, in recognition of support. One hundred percent of the proceeds will benefit Give Kids The World Village.

Krispy Kreme Winter Park – Drive thru Open 24 hours – 1031 S. Orlando Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

Krispy Kreme Millenia – 24 hours – 4080 Millenia Blvd., Orlando, FL 32939

Krispy Kreme Kissimmee – 24 hours – 5310 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, Kissimmee, FL 34746

Krispy Kreme Melbourne: 2040 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32935

Krispy Kreme Daytona Beach: 980 W Intl Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

As an additional sweet treat, all guests who purchase a pin-up will receive a FREE Original Glazed® doughnut.

A Visit to Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, located between Paradiso 37 and The BOATHOUSE Restaurants at Disney Springs, opened yesterday with much confetti, drinks, delicious food, and good times!

With indoor and outdoor seating available, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar bar is a 150-seat lounge open to those of all ages that is bursting at the seams with mementos from Jock’s Travels.

Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar - Interior Panoramic

While the details are largely influenced by the Indiana Jones series, if you look closely enough you can find Star Wars, Marvel, and even the former Adventurers Club nods in the decor.

So who is Jock Lindsey?

His name may sound familiar, because he often served as a frequent pilot to Indiana Jones.

In the 1940’s Jock made a home at this waterfront property after discovering this charming little town while flying Indiana Jones over the Sunshine State in search of the elusive Fountain of Youth in 1938. As a member of the Society of Explorers and Adventurers, Jock often welcomed his globetrotting friends to his hangar for a drink and fun times.

The food and beverage menu at Jock Lindsey’s Hangar bar offers a wide assortment of choices with nods to Indiana Jones and his adventures.

There are four cocktails that feature either a specialty glass or stirrer.

While these glasses are featured on the menu, they aren’t available at the bar yet. The drinks were delicious, but we’ll have to go back for another ‘research’ visit for photos. It’s a hard life…

The food at Jock Lindsey’s features excotic small plates and more substantial appetizers that are perfect for sharing.

I tried Dr. Elsa’s She-Deviled Eggs, and they feature eggs that have been brined in beet juice with lump crab filling. The texture of the eggs, at first, is really different due to the crab, but the wasabi and beet tones are super tasty!

The “Good” Dates feature goat cheese-stuffed dates with Marcona almonds nestled on a pile of pickled veggies.

The Snack of Ra gives a taste of Africa with salads and dips served with injera (bread) and naan crisps. This is a rather large plate that is perfect for sharing!

I really loved how the pretzels come in a whimsical airplane set-up with house-made mustard and beer-cheese fondue.

My absolute favorite dish was the Rolling Boulder Sliders with three spice meatballs on mini-buns with yogurt sauce. Watch out though, because they have quite a kick!

You can also enjoy the Brody Brats, a pile of grilled bratwurst with mustard, pickles, and pickled cabbage.

And “Squid! Why’d It Have to Be Squid” is fried calamari flatbread with spicy harissa that has a really exotic look.

We really had a great time at Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, and I will definitely be returning!

Jock Lindsey’s opens daily at 11:30 am, and when you check in make sure that you give them your cell phone number because they are the first location at Walt Disney World to use a new system of alerting you of estimated wait times and availability of seating.

A Huge Thanks to Tom and WDWNT for letting me take pictures of their food!!!

Khan Academy Launches Pixar In A Box

Khan Academy launches Pixar in a Box, a behind-the-scenes look at

Pixar Animation Studios’ creative process

Free online curriculum shows how Pixar filmmakers use science, technology, engineering, art and math to create movie magic

Have you ever wondered how the creative process works at Pixar? Khan Academy has launched Pixar in a Box – a new online resource that explores the academic concepts behind Pixar Animation Studios’ creative process.

This free resource is available to students of all ages, and through a series of video lessons, interactive exercises, and hands-on activities, students will discover how the academic concepts they learn in school enable Pixar filmmakers to create new worlds, animate unique characters and tell stories through animation.

“Our mission at Khan Academy is a free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere,” said Sal Khan, Founder and CEO of the not-for-profit Khan Academy. “Sparking student interest in math and other academic fields is a key part of that, and we’re delighted to collaborate with Pixar to achieve this goal. Pixar in a Box gives students a new way to engage with key academic concepts and see how creative these concepts can be.”

Students can access Pixar in a Box and learn:

· How combinatorics are used to create crowds, like the swarm of robots in WALLE.

· How parabolas are used to model environments, like the forest in Brave.

· How weighted averages are used to create characters, like Buzz Lightyear and Woody.

· How linear and cubic interpolation are used to animate characters.

· How trigonometry is used to create the worlds in which Pixar stories take place.

· How simultaneous equations are used to paint all of Pixar’s images.

“Learning makes us beginners again,” said Ed Catmull, President of Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios. “In my experience, creativity involves missteps and imperfections, which is one more reason it is important for every one of us to keep learning – in order to remain flexible and keep our brains nimble. By working with Khan Academy on Pixar in a Box, we hope to encourage the excitement of learning and creative thinking for middle and high school students and to provide the tools to do it.”

“For years, we’ve heard from teachers at every grade level interested in creating animation-based curricula,” said Elyse Klaidman, Director, Pixar University and Archives. “We’ve wanted to provide free online resources for them, and Pixar in a Box makes that dream a reality. We hope that it not only gives students a behind-the-scenes look at how our movies are made but also gets them excited about STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) concepts.”

I can’t wait to show Zoe Khan Academy’s Pixar in a Box program! I think that she is going to absolutely flip her lid!!!

All Pixar in a Box resources are available free of charge at PixarInABox.org. The site will be updated as additional lessons become available.

Hard Rock Hotel At Universal Kicks Off Pinktober with Brett Michaels #Pinktober

Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando Fights Breast Cancer in Annual Pinktober Campaign

Pinktober Hard Rock Hotel Orlando Velvet Sessions Brett Michaels

Bret Michaels Returns to Headline PINKTOBER Velvet Sessions for the Fourth Year,With Silent Auction Proceeds To Benefit Martha’s Angels

Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando is uniting musicians, supporters and survivors in honor of the brand’s 16th annual PINKTOBER®campaign. On Thursday, September 24, Bret Michaels will officially kick off the Orlando PINKTOBER program with a special performance at Velvet Sessions. An ardent supporter of Hard Rock and the annual PINKTOBER campaign, Michaels is performing for the fourth consecutive year to help the hotel raise money and awareness for breast cancer research.The evening’s silent auction, featuring hotel stays, all-inclusive resort vacations, dinners and more, will benefit Martha’s Angels, a Central-Florida non-profit group that provides financial and emotional assistance to those in treatment for breast cancer.

The world-famous Hard Rock brand is thinking pink in support of the 16th Annual PINKTOBER campaign. Throughout the month of October, guests can show their support for a cause that affects millions by visiting Hard Rock properties around the world and purchasing pink merchandise, pink drinks and pink hotel amenities.

Shop to Support Pinktober

Hard Rock’s PINKTOBER campaign helps fans shop for the cause with the 2015 PINKTOBER merchandise line, including a collector’s edition pin set, T-shirts, scarf, bathrobe, pink sheets and more! PINKTOBER products will be sold online at www.hardrock.com. Hard Rock’s Collectable PINKTOBER pin is available at properties worldwide, including Cafes, Hotels and Casinos, and the PINKTOBER unisex T-shirt is available at Hard Rock Hotels worldwide. Proceeds will benefit breast cancer research charities, with 75 percent of the retail price of each pin and 15 percent of the retail price of other products sold going directly to the cause.

Stay to Give Back

Hard Rock Hotel guests can support PINKTOBER by staying in Hard Rock Hotel’s Pink Sheets Rooms. Select Hard Rock Hotels worldwide will offer special rooms dressed with Hard Rock’s pink sheets. Guests can support the cause and enjoy pink sheets, pink bathrobes, commemorative pins and more with a portion of the room rate benefitting breast cancer research charities.

Social Message of Strength

As part of the 2015 PINKTOBER campaign, Hard Rock encourages fans to show off their support and strength with #PINKTOBER on social media. Whether sharing photos of Hard Rock’s PINKTOBER merchandise, or displaying how they support breast cancer awareness in their daily lives, Hard Rock looks to its guests to join the fight and utilize the #PINKTOBER hashtag in their social media posts this fall. For more information on Hard Rock’s PINKTOBER campaign, please visit www.hardrock.com.

Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando Pinktober Kick Off Event Information

What:	Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando Fights Breast Cancer Through PINKTOBER
When:	Thursday, September 24, 2015 6:30 pm
Where:	Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando 5800 Universal Boulevard Orlando, Florida 32819 407.503.2000
Tickets:	http://velvetsessions.tix.com

The Jungle Book Trailer And Images Are Here! #JungleBook

Disney’s The Jungle Book will swing into theaters on April 15, 2016, and today I am really excited to share more about the story, some new images, and the brand new trailer!

httpv://youtu.be/HcgJRQWxKnw

The Jungle Book is directed by Jon Favereau (“Iron Man”), and is based on Rudyard Kipling’s timeless stories that is also inspired by Disney’s classic animated film with a cast that is absolutely fantastic!

“The Jungle Book” is an all-new live-action epic adventure about Mowgli (newcomer Neel Sethi), a man-cub who’s been raised by a family of wolves.

But Mowgli finds he is no longer welcome in the jungle when fearsome tiger Shere Khan (voice of Idris Elba), who bears the scars of Man, promises to eliminate what he sees as a threat.

Urged to abandon the only home he’s ever known, Mowgli embarks on a captivating journey of self-discovery, guided by panther-turned-stern mentor Bagheera (voice of Ben Kingsley), and the free-spirited bear Baloo (voice of Bill Murray).

Along the way, Mowgli encounters jungle creatures who don’t exactly have his best interests at heart, including Kaa (voice of Scarlett Johansson), a python whose seductive voice and gaze hypnotizes the man-cub, and the smooth-talking King Louie (voice of Christopher Walken), who tries to coerce Mowgli into giving up the secret to the elusive and deadly red flower: fire.

The all-star cast also includes Lupita Nyong’o as the voice of the fiercely protective mother wolf Raksha, and Giancarlo Esposito as the voice of wolf pack’s alpha male Akela.

“The Jungle Book” seamlessly blends live-action with photorealistic CGI animals and environments, using up-to-the-minute technology and storytelling techniques to immerse audiences in an enchanting and lush world.

The Jungle Book wild adventure swings into theaters in 3D on April 15, 2016, but for more information:

Check out the herd Disney.com/thejunglebook
Like the journey on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DisneyJungleBook
Follow the pack on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DisneyStudios
Follow the adventure on Instagram: https://instagram.com/DisneyStudios.

The Shallow Grave Returns to Winter Haven This October

The Shallow Grave Has A Hankering for Human Parts

The Shallow Grave returns to Winter Haven with devilish intentions for select dates in October

The Shallow Grave, a devilishly grotesque grindhouse style haunted house, returns to Winter Haven for its 3^rd season on October 2nd with major new scares, movie-quality sets, animations and unbelievable special effects, designed to strike fear into the hearts and minds of anyone brave enough to enter.

Open select dates, the Shallow Grave and its ghoulish inhabitants will bring nightmares to life on 12 bone-chilling evenings in October.

Friday & Saturday	October 2 & 3	7:30PM – 11:00PM
Friday & Saturday	October 9,10,16,17,23,24,30 & 31	7:30PM – 12:00AM
Thursday	October 22 & 29	7:30PM – 10:00PM

Known as the largest indoor, privately-owned haunt zone in Florida, Shallow Grave offers two unique haunted attractions with highly immersive scare zones around every corner. Both the Shallow Grave and ADHD (Attention Deficit Haunt Disorder) are dark attractions filled with terrifying live actors, amazing special effects and heart pounding storylines to wreak havoc on your state-of-mind.

Admission starts at just $17.00 per person, per haunt. Combination passes and the ultimate Quick Death Pass, including the highly coveted front-of-the-line access pass and admission to both fear filled attractions, is once again priced at just $40!

The Shallow Grave 2015 Winter Haven Florida

With a hankering for human parts, Thaddeus Van Buren and his cast of fallen souls will make you beg for more while you are dying to get out! With more blood, more gore and ultimately more FEAR the Shallow Grave will thrill and terrify you with their highly defined walk-through nightmare in Winter Haven, Florida.

Located roughly thirty minutes from the Orlando and/or Tampa areas, the Shallow Grave is located at 701 42^nd Street NW, Winter Haven, Florida 33881. For directions or to purchase tickets, visit them online at www.theshallowgrave.com.

CSI: The Experience to Host CSI Series Finale Event

EMS Entertainment will host live, series finale watch party event to celebrate 15 years of CSI: Crime Scene Investigation at Orlando’s CSI: The Experience.

For 15 years, the hit CBS crime drama CSI: Crime Scene Investigation has been delivering twists, turns,and heart-stopping excitement to legions of fans worldwide. Unfortunately, all good things must come toan end. On September 27, CBS will air a two-hour series finale movie signaling the end of an era, and EMS Entertainment invites die-hard CSI fans to come together for a grand send-off.

Join us as we reunite with fan favorites including Supervisor Gil Grissom (William Petersen) and Catherine Willows (Marg Helgenberger) making their triumphant return to the series in what’s sure to be a wild ride.

Beginning at 4:00PM, CSI: The Experience will host a finale party featuring games, light refreshments, contests, and a “best-of” episode rewatch. After the exhibit closes, the event carries on with a live watch party of the finale film in our private event room. Interact with fans from around the world via social media feeds, and share an evening with your fellow CSI devotees!

Surprises await you as we say a fond farewell to our dedicated investigators. Enjoy special discounted admission to CSI: The Experience for event attendees.

If you haven’t strapped on a ballistics vest yet, 50% pricing provides the perfect opportunity! Or choose to participate in the party only for an inclusive price of $15 for all ages. Free parking is available in both front and back lots.

From CBS and EMS, we’d like to thank you for your loyal support of this exceedingly successful television franchise. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate one of the world’s most prolific series in an exclusive, one-time event.

To keep up with CSI: The Experience Orlando, make sure you give them a follow on Twitter @CSIExperienceFL and like on Facebook.

Jungle Cruise Breakfast at Disneyland

Recently Disneyland announced they’d be adding a new meal experience at the Jungle Cruise in Adventureland. This Jungle Cruise breakfast goes for $300. per guest (including tax and gratuity) and also includes the chance to helm one of the Jungle Cruise boats while reciting skippers’ lines. Also, as a souvenir, guests will receive a tiki mask reminiscent of those seen on the ride. The Jungle Cruise Sunrise Safari Breakfast will be served in the African section of the attraction, and will take place on select days between September 21 and December 2, 2015.

This got me thinking, what if we had this here at Walt Disney World, but not in the Jungle Cruise? Where would I like to have the meal, and what themed souvenir would I pair with it?

In the Magic Kingdom, I’d like a dinner in the Carousel of Progress Christmas scene. I know this may not be particularly original since there’s already a dining room table and kitchen there, but I think it would be fun. As a take home souvenir, I’d like one of the Mickey Mouse nutcrackers from the mantle of the living room.

At Epcot I think I’d most enjoy a meal in the Living with the Land attraction. I’d want to set up right near the pretty little waterfall just across the water so I could enjoy the view while having a meal featuring foods from the Land. I think it would be cool to get a ceramic replica of the Mickey pumpkins they grow, along with the plastic mold and pumpkin seeds.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios presents a bit more of a challenge. I’ve both been to dinners in attractions and known friends who have been to meals in others. I would love to eat in the Great Movie Ride, but I know that’s a real thing, so I don’t want to cop out. I will go with one of the best themed Disney attractions anywhere, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. I think it would be amazing to have an outdoor meal on the terrace part of the extended outdoor queue, or in the ballroom that we don’t see other than the door as you exit the ride into the gift shop. For a souvenir from the Hollywood Tower Hotel, I’d love a plate setting maybe minus the silverware.

Even though it is open to the elements, at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, I would select a nice alfresco meal in the Maharajah Jungle Trek between the tiger enclosures. Like one of my favorite restaurants, Sanaa, this would offer a fantastic view of the animals. I believe a replica of one of the beautiful bird cages along the trek would make a great souvenir. There’s a bright red and gold one I’d particularly fancy.

If you were to choose to have a meal in a Walt Disney World attraction, other than the Jungle Cruise since we are getting the new Skipper Canteen later this year, what would you pick? What would your souvenir be? Are you doing the meal in Disneyland? If so, please let us know.