May 2013 - On the Go in MCO

ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Overview

Many of us see the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and think of it as the place where we pick up our RunDisney Race Packets or where the Atlanta Braves hold their Spring Training each year, but this often overlooked part of the Walt Disney World Resort plays home to much, much more!

Walking past the globe and up to the gates, you find yourself immersed into a world of sports…no pun intended. But it is really amazing to see so many talented kids and adults in one place playing the games they love!

When you first walk up to the complex, you will notice that there is a large Box Office where you can purchase your tickets for events at the complex. It is important to note that guests, who are not athletes or coaches participating in an event, require paid admission for entrance. General admission prices for Adults (Ages 10+) $16.00 and Children (Ages 3-9) $11.00, and for many events length-of-event admission tickets are available. Also Premium and Special Events may require additional charges. If you are planning on visiting the complex for a specific event, you can go to the ESPN Wide World of Sports site, and search by event for ticket options.

The one thing that totally blew my mind when I visited the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex is just how many venues they have for almost any sport imaginable!

The first thing I think of when I think of ESPN Wide World of Sports, is their fields, all 28 of them, that feature surfaces for signature sports. For baseball, there is the Baseball Quadraplex which is home to four professional sized fields and one practice field. Fields 7 and 9 are more versatile grass playing surfaces for soccer. In Diamondplex 10-15 you will find baseball and fastpitch softball fields. While the Hess® Fields 16-30 feature versatile grass playing surfaces for sports including soccer, baseball, field hockey, and lacrosse.

Champion® Stadium is Disney’s Big League Stadium, and is home to the Atlanta Braves Spring Training. This stadium is also used for baseball and fastpitch softball. It is a great stadium! It’s just the right size to make you feel like you are at a big-time game, while still having the fun and intimate feeling that is so unique to MLB Spring Training!

The HP Field House is a multi-sport facility; they have even laid down ice for ice skating competitions and ice hockey games! But mostly you will find the HP Field House playing host to cheer, basketball, and volleyball competitions.

The Jostens® Center is another multi-sport facility, and where the RunDisney Expo and Race Packet Pick-Up are usually held. The day I visited ESPN Wide World of Sports, it was host to 6 basketball courts for the AAU Basketball Tournament. It is a HUGE facility that is also home to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Grill and Custom Tee Center by Champion®.

The New Balance Track and Field Complex is a Premier competition and training facility for state, national, and international events. If you ran in the Run Disney Tower of Terror 10-miler, this is where the Haunted Mansion Grave Diggers were waiting for us.

And finally, at the Tennis Complex you will find ten clay courts, including a stadium court! These courts can accommodate anything from a youth clinic to a professional tournament.

If you think that getting around the ESPN Wide World of Sports would be confusing and overwhelming you would be wrong!

With the Welcome Center conveniently located in the heart of the complex, you are never far from help! In the Welcome Center, you will find Cast Members who are extremely knowledgeable about not only the Complex but all of the Walt Disney World Resort. You can do anything from finding event information to purchasing tickets (even for La Nouba) to help scheduling large group reservations and activities. And if you happen to be far away from the Welcome Center, there are several mobile units and Cast Members deployed to fields around the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

ESPN Wide World of Sports also makes use of video displays throughout the complex. There are also four screen hubs, where four large LED monitors show you event highlights, information, weather, and general information about the complex. These hubs are soooo useful, and if you are lucky you might even catch your team featured in the highlights!

Also, for events you will find maps where you least expect to find them…on the ground giving you an easy way to find your field or venue!

If you want to grab a bite to eat, you have a ton of options!

The most fun option is that you can have pizza delivered to your field. Seriously…how cool is that???

You will also find a mobile ESPN Food Truck where you can buy anything from a snack to a beer, and when the Complex is really busy you will even find local food trucks!

Also, inside of the HP® Field House there is an almost mini-food court with several options available.

But if you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle, you may want to visit the ESPN Wide World of Sports Grill. You’ll find Burgers, Salads, sandwiches, and even a full service bar to relax in after a fun event. They have coke freestyle machines inside the Grill, which is always a fun bonus!

There are also three really unique offerings at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

The first is the Custom Tee Center by Champion® where you can customize an event T-shirt with more than 50 designs available to commemorate your accomplishment or you can design your own shirt, like I did! This is a really cool area of ESPN Wide World of Sports, and one that you definitely don’t just want to pass by! I opted to make a shirt that was perfect for training for my upcoming RunDisney races, but there were tons of other shirt styles and designs I could have chosen from. For me, the best part is that the shirts are ready in a snap (mine was ready in about 30 minutes) and if you can’t pick up your shirt until the next day they make sure it stays safe until you can come and get it from the Tee Center.

The second really amazing service offered at ESPN Wide World of Sports is the Gameday Photo Experience. Here you can view your Gameday Photos, create custom photo keepsakes, and take amazing green screen pictures. You can even make posters and fully personalized ESPN The Magazine covers. The quality of these photo products are incredibly high and they are produced with little to no turnaround. It really is perfect for the hectic schedule of sporting events.

Also, you will find the PlayStation Pavilion where athletes between and after games can wind down by playing the ultimate PS3® gaming experience. There is an additional charge to use this area, but it is a great way to bring a team together or celebrate a big win!

As you can see, the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex is much more than what meets the eye and I can’t wait to share more about teams can make the most of their time at the Complex and how to make sure you don’t miss any great opportunities to visit.

D23 Expo Announces Dream Store

D23 Expo Dream Store and Silent Auction return to the Ulitmate Disney Fan Event One-of-a-kind items and unique collectibles

Special logo apparel, product debuts, artist signings, and a new silent auction
will highlight the Ultimate Disney Event for Fans and Families August 9-11

Bursting with D23 Expo-themed official merchandise and other specialty items from Disney Theme Park Merchandise, the D23 Expo Dream Store returns with something magical for Disney fans of all ages. From Disney-inspired apparel, art and collectibles, accessories, books and more, the D23 Expo Dream Store is a Disney enthusiast’s dream come true. Highlights include:

Official D23 Expo Merchandise will allow Disney fans to take home a piece of the magic from this year’s expo, with an assortment of official D23 Expo inspired merchandise including tees, baseball cap, fleece, jewelry, drink ware, accessories, pins, and Vinylmation™.

HARVEYS Seatbeltbags® are sure to make a statement at this year’s D23 Expo. This new collection which features Sorcerer Mickey, classic D’s and more on some of HARVEYS most popular silhouettes, were created especially for this year’s 2013 Expo.

Disney Theme Park Merchandise will showcase some of its newest releases from Disney licensees and artists, including ACME Archives Limited, Dave Avanzino, Disney Design Group, Dooney & Bourke, Duffy the Disney Bear, Noah, Robert Olszewski, Precious Moments, Linda Rick, Jim Shore, and more.

ACME Archives Limited invites guests to make the magic come alive in your home with the latest releases from Disney•Pixar, Disney Studio Art, Disney Limited, Disney Underground and more.

Disney Design Group highlights a new Signature Collection of artwork including four captivating pieces filled with imagination, which bring to life Sorcerer Mickey and some of Disney’s most beloved characters.

Disney Dream Collection and D23 Expo-Exclusive Jewelry will dazzle audiences with a sparkling new selection of fine jewelry debuting as part of this year’s D23 Expo and featuring classic Disney icons and characters like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Tinker Bell, among others.

Dream Store Autograph Sessions will give Disney fans the opportunity to meet and greet some of their favorite authors, artists, Disney Legends and other notable celebrities. Autograph sessions will be posted daily at the D23 Expo Dream Store.

D23 Expo 2013 Silent Auction offers Disney enthusiasts the rare opportunity to bid on unique artifacts, artwork, experiences, props and more. The D23 Expo 2013 Silent Auction takes place Saturday, August 10, 2013. Tickets for the Silent Auction go on sale June 11, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. (Pacific) via www.ArtofDisneyParks.com. Separate D23 Expo admission is required.

Please continue to watch as we release more details about Dream Store merchandise offerings, silent auction lots, and more on www.Disney.com/D23 and www.ArtofDisneyParks.com and on Facebook and Twitter at “DisneyD23”.

About D23 Expo 2013

The D23 Expo—The Ultimate Disney Fan Event—brings the entire world of Disney under one roof, providing attendees with unprecedented access to Disney films, television and theme parks. For the latest D23 Expo 2013 news, visit www.D23Expo.com. To be part of the D23 Expo conversation, make sure to follow @DisneyD23 and tag your tweets with #D23Expo.

About D23

The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s 88-year history. D23 gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication Disney twenty-three; a rich website at www.D23.com; member-exclusive discounts and special events for D23 Members throughout the year, highlighted by the D23 Expo in Anaheim, California, August 9-11, 2013.

Fans can join D23 at www.D23.com and at www.DisneyStore.com/D23. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow us @DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube.

My First Trip to Typhoon Lagoon

As we are now in the unofficial post Memorial Day summer season, I thought I’d talk about Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park. So full disclosure, I have actually been to Typhoon Lagoon before. The first time I went though I don’t really count as I was only there for about an hour before the park closed due to weather. That is one of the things you need to be aware of is that the safety of the guests and Cast Members will always come first, so if there is any lightning or major inclement weather, the park is subject to temporary closure. Both times I have visited now were stormy days in May and June, so knowing the Florida summer weather, this is not a rare occasion.

The first time I went, back in June of 2008, I was able to experience two attractions, which was good because I didn’t get a chance to do them this trip. First up was the Shark Reef. This snorkeling experience in chilly (about 68 degrees) saltwater, allows you to gently float in a pool with a few different types of sharks and several species of fish swimming below you. I opted to take an underwater camera, but the pictures came out kind of dark since it was a stormy day. This is a cool activity to try and doesn’t have an additional cost to borrow the snorkel equipment.

The only other thing I was able to do before the park closed was Castaway Creek, the lazy river where you

can gently float along in an inner tube around the perimeter of Typhoon Lagoon. I absolutely love this attraction and was a little sad I wasn’t able to do it last week when I went. It is so relaxing to just chill, but beware, there are also spots along the creek where other guests can shoot water cannons to spray you from the bridges above. It is also really convenient that there are multiple access points where you can get in and out of the creek, or go all the way around.

When we first arrived, we headed to grab dinner at Leaning Palms. There are several quick service and snack locations throughout the park that even accept the dining plan. I was excited to see that they have the mini donuts at Typhoon Lagoon, which I have only had before at Blizzard Beach. I had a fantastic turkey pesto sandwich with homemade chips and fresh fruit and a soda.

This past week was the first time I was able to do any of the water slides at Typhoon Lagoon, so this is why I consider it my first real trip to the water park. I started off with a ride on Humunga Kowabunga, a five story straight drop in only seconds. This is like doing Splash Mountain on your back without a flume. It is quite the thrill! Next up were the Storm Slides, which I enjoyed a bit more. These three winding slides still provide a thrill at a three story drop.

From here, we went to one of my favorite rides we did, Gangplank Falls, a family raft ride that combines fun twists and turns with drops and even some unexpected water effects. I really enjoyed this as you can ride with three others and this makes a fun attraction for the whole family! The last ride I did was Mayday Falls, a single inner tube slide that takes you through tubes, under waterfalls, and is one of the fastest of the single tube slides. I liked this one too, but got a little scared when I got turned around partway down. Luckily, I was able to turn back around before the splashdown.

Overall, I had a fun time on the slides. Gangplank Falls was my favorite of the rides I did. I wish I had been able to do Crush ‘n’ Gusher as I’ve only heard fantastic things about this exciting water roller coaster that shoots you up and down hills on an inner tube. One of my absolute favorite things to do was actually to sit on the seats along the edge of the wall at the side of the Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool. The waves come and splash you every few minutes cooling you off as you relax.

Here are a few things you need to know, that I wish I had known, before I went to Typhoon Lagoon. There are quite a few (read as hundreds, if not thousands) of stairs to get to many of the attractions. I was more sore the next day after going to the water park for two hours from doing stairs than I am after a 3 mile run. You’ve been warned! Also, there are signs around most of the slides warning you not to wear jewelry on the slides. Take it from me and heed these warnings. I don’t know if it was on a slide or in the wave pool, but I lost one of my toe rings that I never take off because they are now just a part of me.

On the subject of the wave pool, don’t underestimate the height of the waves. I was in the pool with Zoe and realized she wasn’t going to be tall enough to jump over the wave, so I tossed her over the wave, but wasn’t able to brace myself and was knocked over. I was fine, other than a small scrape on my knee, but pay attention and try not to get caught in no man’s land where you are in between where the waves break. You are better off going either deeper to where the waves aren’t breaking yet, or more shallow closer to the beach after where the waves break.

Typhoon Lagoon was a ton of fun and I can’t wait to go back to try the last few attractions I haven’t done yet. They also have a great kids only area for younger children called Ketchakiddee Creek if your kids aren’t as daring as Zoe, who at almost 7 does all of the big slides too. This area is like a mini version of the rest of the park with different types of attractions like slides, tube rides, fountains and caves with waterfalls. I also look forward to going to Blizzard Beach for the first time to do something other than eat donuts. 😉

Have you been to the Disney water parks before? What are your favorite attractions at Typhoon Lagoon? Take time to cool down this summer outside the theme parks and take advantage of all the great offerings at the water parks.

Orlando City Downs Major League Soccer’s Colorado Rapids 3-1

Dwyer with brace, Burke with goal/assist in Orlando City SC franchise’s first win over MLS club in US Open Cup play

Orlando City SC (USL PRO) defeated the visiting Colorado Rapids (Major League Soccer) 3-1 Tuesday night in the third round of US Open Cup play at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Fla. Forward Dom Dwyer notched two goals in the second half, leading the club to its first-ever win over an MLS club in US Open Cup play and advancing Orlando to the 4^th round of competition.

“I think just before and during the second half we were far and away the better team,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I thought we were worthy winners and it would have been a travesty if we didn’t take home the win.”

Orlando got on the board early, with a Bryan Burke score giving the Lions the 1-0 advantage. In the 4^th minute, the winger received the ball on the edge of the box- rifling his attempt off a Colorado defender and into the back of the net. The goal was Burke’s second consecutive, counting regular season play, with the former Kitsap Puma (PDL) star netting his first goal of the season Saturday night in USL PRO season over Wilmington.

Colorado quickly responded, with a defensive turnover leading to the equalizer. Rapids’ Midfielder Kamani Hill jumped on a bad pass by the Orlando backline in the 17^th minute, putting his attempt past Goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo to even the game at 1-1.

After finishing out the first half tied, Orlando began the second half on the attack. In the 48^th minute, Burke surged down the right hand side- floating a ball to a waiting Dom Dwyer on the back post. The USL PRO leading scorer whipped his header attempt into the back left corner, giving the Lions a 2-1 lead.

Orlando continued to push forward, resulting in a costly mistake by Colorado Goalkeeper Steward Ceus in the 57^th minute. After getting free past the Rapids backline, Dwyer had a 1-on-1 with Ceus, with the goalkeeper making a last-ditch effort by tackling the Cuckfield, native, just outside the 6-yard box. The tackle resulted in a straight red, leaving the Rapids down a man heading into the final 30 minutes of the match.

It didn’t take long for Orlando to capitalize on the man-up advantage. Former Orlando City U23s Midfielder Adama Mbengue played a great ball through to Long Tan on the edge of the box in the 63^rd minute, with the former DC United Striker finding Dwyer on the reception of his pass. Dwyer converted past the newly-subbed Clint Irwin for the 3-1 lead. Orlando controlled possession to close out the match, topping the Rapids with the final score 3-1.

The win marked a few firsts for the Lions, including the club’s first win over an MLS side in Open Cup play and first time advancing to the 4^th round of competition.

At time of distribution, the winner of the Des Moines Menace (PDL) and Sporting Kansas City (MLS) was not determined. Whichever club wins will play Orlando in the 4^th round, with the Lions traveling to Sporting Park to play SKC in case the MLS club prevails while hosting the PDL side in Orlando if the Menace win. The match will be on Wednesday, June 12. Orlando is the official USL PRO affiliate of Sporting KC.

Orlando City Match Recap

Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City SC 1 2 3

Colorado Rapids 1 0 1

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Bryan Burke (unassisted) 4^th

COL- Kamani Hill (unassisted) 18^th

ORL- Dom Dwyer (Bryan Burke) 48^th

ORL- Dom Dwyer (Long Tan) 63^rd

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City- Miguel Gallardo, Yann Songo’o, Bryan Burke, Luke Boden, Rob Valentino, Anthony Pulis, James O’Connor, Kevin Molino, Adama Mbengue (Jamie Watson 67), Dom Dwyer, Long Tan (Dennis Chin 76)

Colorado Rapids- Steward Ceus, Marvell Wynne, Shane O’Neill, German Mera, Anthony Wallace, Dillon Powers, Nick LaBrocca (Atiba Harris 72), Kamani Hill (Deshorn Brown 66), Tony Cascio, Kevin Harbottle (Clint Irwin 58), Danny Mwanga

Penalty Summary:

ORL- Anthony Pulis (Yellow) 32^nd

COL- Shane O’Neill (Yellow) 36^th

COL- Steward Ceus (Red) 56^th

ORL- Adama Mbengue (Yellow) 65^th

COL- Atiba Harris (Yellow) 80^th

Match Facts:

Kickoff: 7:30 p.m.

Weather: Clear/Cloudy

Attendance: 4,128

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.

Waves of Honor Program At SeaWorld Parks Honors Military Families

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment Salutes Military with Waves of Honor Program

Program Provides Free Admission for Military Members and as many as Three Direct Dependents to SeaWorld®, Busch Gardens® Parks and Sesame Place®

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment™ is honoring the men and women of the U.S. armed services through its Waves of Honor™ military salute program. The program provides free admission to the SeaWorld^® and Busch Gardens^®Parks, and Sesame Place^®for members of U.S. armed forces and as many as three direct dependents through 2013. Waves of Honor follows Here’s to the Heroes. Created in 2001, the program has awarded more than 6.7 million theme park tickets to service members and their families.

“It has always been our honor to host members of the military and their families at our parks each year,” said Jim Atchison, President and CEO of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. “Waves of Honor is our way to say ‘thank you’ to these dedicated service men and women who sacrifice so much to preserve the freedom we share in this country.”

Waves of Honor provides one complimentary admission per year to one of the SeaWorld® or Busch Gardens® Parks, Sesame Place®, Adventure Island® ,Water Country USA® or Aquatica® San Diego (weekdays only) for the service member and as many as three of his or her direct dependents.

Any active duty military, activated or drilling reservists, or National Guardsman representing any of the five service branches is entitled to one complimentary admission to one of the participating parks under the program. He or she need only register, either online at www.wavesofhonor.com or in the entrance plaza of a participating park, and show a valid active military identification. All dependents 10 and older must present a valid military dependent identification for entry into the park. Dependents may take advantage of the offer without their service member, though an adult must accompany minor dependents.

SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa, and SeaWorld San Diego operate year-round. The remaining parks are seasonal. Each park’s operating schedule is available online.

Inactive, standby and retired reserve members, military retirees, U.S. Merchant Marine and civilian Department of Defense workers are ineligible for the program. The program does not include Discovery Cove® in Orlando or Aquatica® Orlando. Rules of eligibility can be found at www.wavesofhonor.com and are subject to change. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment reserves the right to terminate the program.

Wordless Wednesday – Just Before The Drop

Wordless Wednesday – May 29, 2013

Enter The World of Springfield Like Never Before This Summer At Universal Orlando Resort

Enter The World of Springfield Like Never Before At Universal Orlando Resort

This Summer

Woo Hoo! Springfield, hometown to America’s favorite animated family, The Simpsons, comes to life at Universal Orlando Resort this summer.

The expansive, new area within Universal Studios will be anchored by the mega-attraction, The Simpsons Ride, and will allow guests to enter the world of The Simpsons like never before. It will be the only place in the world where guests can walk the streets of Springfield. It will include a brand-new outdoor attraction, places and foods pulled right from the show and two new Simpsons characters who will make their debut with the new area – Krusty the Clown and Sideshow Bob.

And yes – there will be Duff Beer, brewed exclusively for Universal Orlando.

For the first time ever – anywhere – fans will be able to walk down Fast Food Boulevard and visit the places that helped Springfield stake its claim as “Shelbyville by the Sea.” They will be able to grab a Krusty-certified meat sandwich at Krusty Burger, snatch the catch of the day at the Frying Dutchman, get a slice at Luigi’s Pizza, go nuts for donuts at Lard Lad, enjoy a “Taco Fresho” with Bumblebee Man and imbibe at Moe’s Tavern.

The new attraction – called Kang & Kodos’ Twirl ‘n’ Hurl – will take “foolish humans” on an intergalactic spin designed to send them into orbit.

“This will be a must-see experience for Simpsons fans all over the world,” said Mark Woodbury, President of Universal Creative. “For the first time ever, they’re going to be able to enter a world that they’ve only seen on television – and we’re really excited to bring that world to life.”

“This new expansion will broaden and deepen the already incredible experience at Universal, by bringing to life the iconic landmarks of Springfield that fans have grown to love,” said Jeffrey Godsick, President, Fox Consumer Products. “Fans will literally be able to live and breathe Springfield as they visit the statue of Jebediah, enjoy a Krusty Burger, and have a seat at Moe’s Tavern, which are just a few of the great experiences awaiting at Universal.”

“It has been an honor to bring the world of the Simpsons to life in such a letter-perfect way,” said Denise Sirkot, President, Worldwide Brand, Gracie Films. “Truly this is the Krustyest place on earth.”

For more information, visit www.universalorlando.com.

How To Do Florida With Chad Crawford Coming This June With Great Giveaways

TV series explores fun, easy Florida adventures just in time for Summer Vacation! Plus your chance to win a $50 Gift Card from Gander Mountain and $1,000 “Family Camping Starter Kit”!!!

Fourth Season of the Award-winning

how to Do florida with Chad Crawford

Begins in June with some Great Giveaways!

From dry caving in Ocala to catching a 100-pound Goliath Grouper in Ft. Myers, Season 4 of the how-to travel and discovery series how to Do florida with Chad Crawford has something for everyone beginning in June. The award-winning syndicated TV series takes viewers from the Florida Keys to the Panhandle to discover exciting outdoor activities and shows how to do them. It is produced by Central Florida-based Crawford Entertainment and airs on the Sun Sports cable network and a mix of broadcast TV stations throughout the state.

how to Do florida with Chad Crawford is an entertaining resource for families planning their Florida vacations. Fast-paced, informative and humorous, each 30-minute episode features two outdoor destinations plus the popular “Florida Cooking” segment with Florida Department of Agriculture culinary ambassador chef Justin Timineri. Other new adventures for Season 4 include:

Swimming with manatees in Homosassa Springs
Venomous snakes 101 in Orlando
Hot air balloon ride adventure in Davenport
Experiencing a luxury working ranch near Haines City
A motorcycle trip from Flagler Beach to Cedar Key
Wine making in Clermont
Land-based shark fishing in Ft. Pierce and shark tooth diving in Tampa
A retro RV family road trip with a lunch stop in Tarpon Springs, an overnight stay at Rainbow Springs National Park and ending at the Blue Crab Festival in Palatka

This season’s line-up also includes three Top Five special edition shows featuring favorite how-to activities from past episodes.

The Television Syndication Company which distributes how to Do florida with Chad Crawford calls the program a ratings success. “how to Do florida has become a summer staple on TV stations across Florida,” said President Cassie Yde. “With solid ratings and great viewership in each market, how to Do florida consistently delivers added value to our stations’ schedules.”

With more than 14 million viewers tuning in to watch Season 3 of how to Do florida with Chad Crawford, creator and host Chad Crawford credits the show’s popularity to a combination of good content, high production value and his passion for all things Florida. “how to Do florida is much more than simply a TV show. It’s a movement; a chance to introduce people to the real Florida,” explained Crawford, a third-generation Floridian. “I want people – especially families – to get outdoors, discover the Florida of my youth and learn how to enjoy the awesome adventures I’m sharing with my family.”

A companion website www.howtodoflorida.com contains additional video content and helpful links for those wanting to learn more about the topics and locations featured on the show. In addition, the show’s social media platforms on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube offer viewers a deeper, more interactive experience on how to discover Florida.

Sponsors for Season 4 are Bealls Florida Department Stores, Florida Department of Agriculture, Gander Mountain, the Florida Wildflower Foundation, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council, Florida Hospital, the Florida Tomato Committee and Grand Golf Resorts of Florida.

To jump-start family outdoor vacations, how to Do florida with Chad Crawford is giving away a “Family Camping Starter Kit” valued at $1,000. For contest details and entry form, visit www.howtodoflorida.com starting July 12. No purchase is required. The contest is open to all Florida residents 18 or older.

Also to help celebrate how to Do florida with Chad Crawford kicking off, we are happy be giving away a $50 gift card to Gander Mountain!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

how to Do florida with Chad Crawford is produced by Crawford Entertainment, a full-service production company based in Lake Mary, Fla. that creates, develops and produces original themed television series and specials for national television syndication and cable networks.

Happy Memorial Day!

“Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty.” – John F. Kennedy

On Memorial Day, we pause our lives for a day to honor, remember, and celebrate the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and our freedom.

We should never forget these sacrifices, and hope that they don’t have to be made again by future generations.

Thank you seems like such a small gift to give to those who have served our country, but I give it with all of my heart.

Antarctica Empire Of The Penguin Is Now Open At SeaWorld Orlando

Antarctica: Empire Of The Penguin

At SeaWorld Orlando

All-new adventure allows guests to experience the sights, sounds, thrills, chills and penguins of Antarctica, through the eyes of a special penguin hero named Puck

It’s been 16 long months, but finally the penguins have returned to SeaWorld Orlando!!!!

The new realm of Antarctica is an immersive area of SeaWorld full of beautiful icebergs, a base camp that you wish you could actually visit, food for the pickiest of eaters, merchandise with a heart, and most importantly a first-of-its-kind attraction leading you to a penguin encounter you won’t soon forget!

“We’ve taken our guests and fans on astounding journeys,” says Terry Prather, SeaWorld Orlando’s president. “But no one has ever experienced what we’re bringing to Orlando this year. The first-of-its-kind ride, the cold, the wind, the thrills and danger of Antarctica, coupled with getting up close to penguins in their freezing world is something only SeaWorld can do.”

As soon as you walk into the Antarctica area, you know that you’ve traveled someplace special! There are huge icebergs, mounds of snow, beautiful carvings, and rushing winds that put a chill in the air no matter what the Florida temperature may be!

At the Expedition Café, we are all visitors to Antarctica looking for a meal to warm us up from our frigid environment. In the café, you will find American, Asian, and Italian cuisines featured in a mess hall setting where you are free from queues. There are also hydroponically grown produce and herbs, call ‘freshies’, that are incorporated into your meals. With outside seating available under canvas type sails, and two Quonset-type huts provide seating for guests dining on a mix of cooked-to-order food and quick-serve delights is comfortable.

Glacial Collections gift shop is the place to shop for anything and everything a penguin fan could ask for! The retail shop’s color scheme of black, bright yellows, oranges and whites, and the penguin-shaped displays welcome guests to browse the cache of splendid penguin-related items.

Glacial Collections is where you can also build your very own Cup That Cares!

Also new at Antarctica are souvenir cups created by SeaWorld and Coca-Cola^®. The Cup That Cares^TMis a novel reusable cup program with a twist of technology: An RFID (radio frequency identification) chip embedded in each cup interacts with software at Antarctica’s Coca–Cola Freestyle dispensers to calculate CO₂and tell guests how they are being more environmentally responsible by choosing to refill and reuse. And there’s more: SeaWorld will donate $1 from each Cup That Cares purchase to the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens^® Conservation Fund, a not-for-profit foundation that helps protect wildlife around the world.

And finally we come to the showpiece of Antarctica… Antarctica Empire of the Penguin!

On board a first-of-its-kind trackless, all-family adventure ride, guests become one with the storyline as they follow Puck’s, a gentoo penguin who is beyond loveable, adventures. Each mobile simulator ride car allows guests to choose one of two levels of exploration – Wild Expedition or Mild Expedition – for various degrees of ride intensity. Designers say each version has multiple variations for a feeling of unpredictability, just like the continent of Antarctica.

“When our little hero penguin learns to waddle and slide, we’ll feel what it’s like as the car moves and reacts to the storyline. When he takes his first swim or barely escapes danger, our guests will feel as if they’re right there with him,” explains Brian Morrow, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment^®creative director.

“On this adventure, we learn that we’re a lot like penguins. We’ll find we need each other and our families to survive,” said Morrow.

There’s one more family SeaWorld guests can join at Antarctica … and that’s a huge family of nearly 250 penguins. Stepping off the adventure ride, guests find themselves among a colony of Adelie, gentoo, king and rockhopper penguins in a 30-degree habitat filled with wind, snow, rock and chilly water. It’s what makes Antarctica the coldest theme park attraction in Orlando. New technologies combine to create a freezing – but dry – climate, allowing guests to spend time in the penguins’ amazing world.

Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin also includes educational elements. Kids can “measure up” to all 18 species of penguins carved into the rocks in the plaza. They can engage in kid-height and kid-friendly interactive touch screens and talk with SeaWorld educators to learn more about the importance of community and how penguin colonies work together and rely on each other for survival.

I seriously don’t want to go into too much detail, because I really believe this is one attraction you must really experience to understand it’s true message and beauty.

The official Grand opening of Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin will be held today, Friday, May 24^th!

There will be an “Ice-cutting” ceremony beginning at 8:45 a.m. and includes a live performance by award-winning country artist Lauren Alaina, the voice of the Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin theme song.

SeaWorld Orlando will also be giving out special Antarctica bracelets for the first 700 fans through the front gate, admission is required. SeaWorld Orlando is also encouraging guests to wear black and white to show their penguin pride

If visiting SeaWorld Orlando was even remotely on your ‘To Visit’ list for your next trip to Orlando, you might want to consider moving it to the ‘Must Do’ list…I promise that you won’t regret it!

The Eat To The Beat 2013 Concert Series Line Up

This year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will return to Epcot this September 27 – November 11, and while the food is spectacular I always look forward to the Eat to the Beat Concert Series which features some great new additions!

While I am SUPER stoked to see that Big Bad Voodoo Dady, Sugar Ray, and Boyz II Men are still part of the Eat to the Beat Concert Series, I am excited for updated series to take to the festival stage this year!

This year the concert series new comers include the Go-Go’s, Edwin McCain, The Manhattan Transfer, Wilson Phillips, Spin Doctors, and Christopher Cross.

Here is the entire Eat to the Beat Concert Series Schedule!

Sept. 27-29 – Starship starring Mickey Thomas
Sept. 30-Oct. 1 – Go-Go’s
Oct. 2-4 – Air Supply
Oct. 5-6 – Sister Hazel
Oct. 7-9 – Sugar Ray
Oct. 10-11 – Edwin McCain
Oct. 12-13 – Manhattan Transfer
Oct. 14-15 – Wilson Phillips
Oct. 16-17 – The Pointer Sisters
Oct. 18-20 – Night Ranger
Oct. 21-23 – Boyz II Men
Oct. 24-25 – Survivor
Oct. 26-27 – 38 Special
Oct. 28-30 – Smash Mouth
Oct. 31-Nov. 1 – Spin Doctors
Nov. 2-3 – Christopher Cross
Nov. 4-5 – Hanson
Nov. 6-8 – Dennis DeYoung
Nov. 9-11 – Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

I seriously cannot wait!!!

I hope that we see you at one of these concerts!!!

D23 Expo To Host Once-In-A Lifetime Concert with Richard M. Sherman And Alan Menken

The two Academy Award^®-winning composers and Disney Legends share the stage for one night only performing “The Disney Songbook” at the D23 Expo 2013, Saturday, August 10

For one night only, two of the world’s most celebrated songwriters and composers will take to the stage for “Richard M. Sherman and Alan Menken: The Disney Songbook.” The concert will take place at the D23 Expo 2013 at the Anaheim Convention Center in the D23 Expo Arena on Saturday, August 10.

Together Sherman and Menken have won a combined 10 Academy Awards for their work with Disney, and have composed music and songs for more than three dozen Disney feature films, over two dozen Disney Park attractions and half a dozen Disney musicals on Broadway.

“I can’t express how excited I am that my esteemed friend Alan Menken and I will be sharing the same bill for the very first time,” said Sherman. “Alan is an incredible talent, and I know we’re both thrilled to be performing for Disney’s most ardent fans—they’re the best and I can’t wait to be a part of what promises to be a very special night for all of us.”

“Richard Sherman and I share so many things; our cherished association with The Walt Disney Company, the blessing of having the opportunity to share our musical talents with “children of all ages” and a genuine mutual admiration—but one thing we’ve never gotten to share is a concert stage,” said Menken. “This summer at the D23 Expo 2013, we will do just that. And I can’t think of anyone I’d prefer to share that stage with. Richard, along with his brother Robert, wrote songs that filled my formative years with joy and fantasy. And, all these years later, I can say with complete honesty that there is no one I’ve met in our business who is more warm and generous than my friend and fellow songwriter, Richard Sherman.”

Admission to the concert will be on a first-come, first-served basis and is included in the price of a ticket to the D23 Expo. In addition to the 4,000-seat D23 Expo Arena, the concert will be simulcast into a 2,000-seat overflow theater inside the Convention Center.

Richard M. Sherman and his brother Robert B. Sherman composed some of the most beloved songs in the Disney canon. The Disney Legends won two Oscars^® for their work on Mary Poppins, and during their decades–long association with Disney they wrote more than 200 songs for 27 films and two dozen television productions. They made unforgettable contributions to such Disney films as The Parent Trap, The Jungle Book, Bedknobs and Broomsticks, and the entire Winnie the Pooh series, as well as the family classic Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. They also penned beloved songs for Disney Parks including the theme songs for Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, it’s a small world, and Carousel of Progress. Richard wrote the song “Make Way for Tomorrow Today” for the blockbuster film Iron Man 2, and is working on a new stage musical based on Walt Disney’s 1967 animated film classic The Jungle Book, premiering this June at the Goodman Theater in Chicago.

With eight Academy Awards, Alan Menken has received more Oscars than any living person. He has written songs and scores for some of the world’s most beloved films: Tangled (Oscar nominee), Enchanted (three Oscar nominations) The Little Mermaid (two Oscar wins), Beauty and the Beast (two Oscar wins), Aladdin (two Oscar wins), Pocahontas (two Oscar wins), Hercules (Oscar nominee), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Oscar nominee), Little Shop of Horrors (Oscar nominee), Home on the Range and Newsies. His song “Star Spangled Man,” was the patriotic anthem of the 2011 hit film Captain America: The First Avenger.

Menken’s Broadway successes include his 2012 Tony Award^® for Newsies, plus The Little Mermaid (Tony Award nominee), Beauty and the Beast, Little Shop of Horrors, and Sister Act (Tony Award nominee). His other stage productions include King David, God Bless You Mr. Rosewater, The Hunchback of Notre Dame and his latest stage production Aladdin: The New Musical, opening next year. At Disney Parks, Menken added an exclusive ballad (“To Be Free”) to his song score for Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular at Disney California Adventure and penned “Compass of Your Heart,” the catchy theme song for the attraction Sinbad’s Storybook Voyage at Tokyo DisneySea

Tickets for the D23 Expo are available at a discounted price for a limited time. Though June 15, tickets are $52 for a one-day adult admission and $42 for children 3–12. Tickets for members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club are $45 for a one-day adult admission and $37 for children. Multi-day money-saving tickets are also available for both D23 Members and the general public, and D23 Members can save as much as $144 off the price of admission, based on the purchase of four three-day tickets at the D23 Member rate before June 15. For more information on tickets and the ticket pricing structure for members and general admission, visit D23Expo.com.

About D23 Expo 2013

The D23 Expo—The Ultimate Disney Fan Event—brings the entire world of Disney under one roof, providing attendees with unprecedented access to Disney films, television, and theme parks. For the latest D23 Expo 2013 news, visit D23Expo.com. To be part of the D23 Expo conversation, make sure to follow @DisneyD23 and tag your tweets with #D23Expo.

About D23

The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s nearly 90-year history. D23 gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication Disney twenty-three; a rich website at D23.com; member-exclusive discounts and special events for D23 Members throughout the year, highlighted by the D23 Expo in Anaheim, California, August 9–11, 2013.

Fans can join D23 at D23.com and at www.DisneyStore.com/D23. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow us @DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube.

David Bromstad at the Flower and Garden Festival

I don’t know if you all know this, but I am a certified HGTV junkie! I can watch it all day every day from designs, to landscaping, buying and selling, to remodels. So when I heard my favorite HGTV star, David Bromstad, was going to be featured this year at Epcot’s International Flower & Garden Festival, I knew I’d be there. I have been coming to this spring special event for almost fifteen years, but have never been to any of the speaker series since the recent collaboration with HGTV over the past few years.

David Bromstad, HGTV’s first Design Star, and host of his own show Color Splash, has ties to Disney and Florida. He is a former Cast Member who attended Sarasota’s Ringling College of Art and Design (just minutes from where I live). I love the bright, bold colors David uses in everything he does and especially his one of a kind paintings that he often contributes to his redesigns. I was so excited to learn this presentation was entitled the Power of Color since I love bright colors in my design and clothing.

I met my friends Carol, Danny and Jodi at Epcot and after a quick ride on Test Track we ventured over to the Wonders of Life pavilion early to get our seats. I was so glad we got there almost 45 minutes early as the seats were almost full at that time! This only goes to show how popular David Bromstad is. His personality on his shows is as big and bold as the colors he loves to use! This showed in his fantastic presentation about color.

The Power of Color presentation featured about ten colors or so and discussed common representations of the color. For instance blue is often associated with serenity and peacefulness, but David also brought up the negative of each color, like blue can represent depression. In addition, he went over some of the holistic properties of each color and the characteristics of those who typically like each color. After each color was described, he would show slides of the color used in three very different ways to bring out hues and shades to represent different themes.

I absolutely loved the presentation and David Bromstad’s sense of humor was so personable. He was so down to earth, even shouting out to his friends and parents who were in the audience, making it feel like he had invited us in to his living room for a fun chat. Even my friends who didn’t know who David Bromstad was before Sunday and who aren’t fans of HGTV seemed to really enjoy the presentation. It was very accessible to everyone and I think most people walked out thinking of all the new possibilities for design or even for dressing themselves in the morning. My friends even decided that they will now not be painting the nursery yellow for their yet to be born baby because it is the hardest color for the eyes to focus on (gray is the easiest subsequently).

David Bromstad put on a great show and it was a great combination of education and entertainment. After the show ended, he even took a good amount of time to meet and greet with his fans. He didn’t rush anyone along and greeted everyone with a hug and a sincere thank you for coming. Guests asked design questions, gave him gifts and just chatted with him. It was nice to see someone down to earth matching the personality they put out on tv. I have to give a shout out and huge thank you to David Bromstad’s social media manager Augie for making a meet and greet happen for me even though I missed the line cut off. Coincidentally, I ran in to the guys later that night at our resort in the elevator.

If you enjoy design and decoration as much as I do, or even if you are new to the game, I strongly suggest checking out David’s shows Color Splash and HGTV Design Star, which returns June 9th. You are almost guaranteed to learn some new design techniques and you will be entertained each episode for sure. Also, when next year’s International Flower and Garden Festival rolls around, make sure you check out the presentations by some of the best HGTV personalities. Check out David’s blog post about his time at Disney World here.

A fan made this quilt of pictures of David

He was so sweet to take time with each guest

Orlando City SC Advance to Third Round of US Open Cup

Orlando City Lions Advance To Third Round

of US Open Cup, Top PDL’s Ocala 2-1

Club to host Major League Soccer’s Colorado Rapids on Tuesday, May 28, at Fifth Third Bank at the Florida Citrus Bowl

Behind one goal in the first and second halves, Orlando City SC advanced past the PDL’s Ocala Stampede 2-1 Tuesday night in Ocala, Fla., at Forest High School. With the win, the Lions will host Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Colorado Rapids next Tuesday, May 28, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl.

“I thought our first half performance was very good,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We gifted them (Ocala) a goal in the second half and let them back in the game. But at the end of the day we bring the Rapids to Orlando next week and it will be a good game for us.”

The Lions came out on the attack to begin the match, with league-leading scorer Dom Dwyer nearly converting chances early on, including a bicycle kick in the 20^th minute of play. The Sporting Kansas City loanee and the Lions frontline continued to press, with it paying off just past the halfway point of the first half.

After an Ocala throw-in, Defender Erik Ustruck took away control from the Stampede, passing his attempt into the box where an Ocala defender knocked a deflection to Dwyer. The striker then lobbed the deflection up and over Goalkeeper Lex Craggs, putting Orlando up 1-0.

Just after the second half began, the Lions went up 2-0 after an Adama Mbengue strike in the 50^th minute. The midfielder found space just inside the 18-yard box, blasting a low strike past the Ocala defense and into the lower-right corner for the two-goal advantage.

Ocala responded with a goal of their own in the 58^th minute, with Midfielder Christian Blandon converting a score after Orlando Goalkeeper Jon Kempin made two diving saves in a penalty situation. The Stampede were awarded a penalty after Kempin took down an Ocala striker inside the box, with the Sporting KC loanee making two saves initially- only for Blandon to secure the follow up and cut the lead down to 2-1.

Orlando regained composure after the goal, retaining possession while getting multiple chances at a third score. The last part of the match was a back and forth affair, with the Lions ultimately holding strong and ending the match with the victory.

The club plays one regular season match on Saturday, May 25, vs. the Wilmington Hammerheads before hosting the Rapids in the third round of Open Cup playTuesday night at Fifth Third Bank at the Florida Citrus Bowl. Tuesday’s game marks the first time Orlando has hosted an MLS team at home in the knockout tournament, with the Lions traveling to opponent’s venues in the third round of the past two seasons.

Tickets will be available on www.Orlandocitysoccer.com/tickets. For more information on the upcoming matches, please visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

Orlando City/Ocala Stampede Match Recap

Photos: Orlando City SC

Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City SC 1 1 2

Ocala Stampede 0 1 1

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Dom Dwyer (unassisted) 27^th

ORL- Adama Mbengue (unassisted) 50^th

OCA- Christian Blandon (unassisted) 58^th

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City- GK Jon Kempin, D Erik Ustruck, Justin Clark, Oumar Diakhite, Brian Fekete, M Jonathan Mendoza, Adama Mbengue, Freddie Braun, James O’Connor, F Dom Dwyer (Dennis Chin 46’), Jean Alexandre (Long Tan 66’)

Ocala Stampede- GK Lex Craggs, D David Kamali, Liam Gourlay, Rafael Alves (Jack Bailey 84’), Samuel Duininck, M Stephen Walmsley, William Tice (Kevin Ireland 70’) , Christian Blandon, Wayne Roberts (Kely Breitmeyer 46’), F Amany Nunes, Kenneth Hogg

Penalty Summary:

ORL- Adama Mbengue (Yellow) 37^th

ORL- Freddie Braun (Yellow) 77^th

OCA– Samuel Duininck (Yellow) 87^th

^{ORL-Erik Ustruck (Yellow) 90th}

Match Facts:

Kickoff: 7 p.m.

Weather: Cloudy

Attendance: 1,030

Month: May 2013

ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Overview

D23 Expo Announces Dream Store

D23 Expo Dream Store and Silent Auction return to the Ulitmate Disney Fan Event One-of-a-kind items and unique collectibles

My First Trip to Typhoon Lagoon

Orlando City Downs Major League Soccer’s Colorado Rapids 3-1

Orlando City Match Recap

Waves of Honor Program At SeaWorld Parks Honors Military Families

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment Salutes Military with Waves of Honor Program

Wordless Wednesday – Just Before The Drop

Wordless Wednesday – May 29, 2013

Enter The World of Springfield Like Never Before This Summer At Universal Orlando Resort

Enter The World of Springfield Like Never Before At Universal Orlando Resort

This Summer

How To Do Florida With Chad Crawford Coming This June With Great Giveaways

Fourth Season of the Award-winning

how to Do florida with Chad Crawford

Begins in June with some Great Giveaways!

Happy Memorial Day!

Antarctica Empire Of The Penguin Is Now Open At SeaWorld Orlando

Antarctica: Empire Of The Penguin

At SeaWorld Orlando

The Eat To The Beat 2013 Concert Series Line Up

D23 Expo To Host Once-In-A Lifetime Concert with Richard M. Sherman And Alan Menken

The two Academy Award^®-winning composers and Disney Legends share the stage for one night only performing “The Disney Songbook” at the D23 Expo 2013, Saturday, August 10

David Bromstad at the Flower and Garden Festival

Orlando City SC Advance to Third Round of US Open Cup

Orlando City Lions Advance To Third Round

of US Open Cup, Top PDL’s Ocala 2-1

Orlando City/Ocala Stampede Match Recap

Wordless Wednesday – Living With The Land

Wordless Wednesday – May 22, 2013

D23 Expo Dream Store and Silent Auction return to the Ulitmate Disney Fan Event One-of-a-kind items and unique collectibles

Orlando City Match Recap

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment Salutes Military with Waves of Honor Program

Wordless Wednesday – May 29, 2013

Enter The World of Springfield Like Never Before At Universal Orlando Resort

This Summer

Fourth Season of the Award-winning

how to Do florida with Chad Crawford

Begins in June with some Great Giveaways!

Antarctica: Empire Of The Penguin

At SeaWorld Orlando

The two Academy Award®-winning composers and Disney Legends share the stage for one night only performing “The Disney Songbook” at the D23 Expo 2013, Saturday, August 10

Orlando City Lions Advance To Third Round

of US Open Cup, Top PDL’s Ocala 2-1

Orlando City/Ocala Stampede Match Recap

Wordless Wednesday – May 22, 2013

The two Academy Award^®-winning composers and Disney Legends share the stage for one night only performing “The Disney Songbook” at the D23 Expo 2013, Saturday, August 10