On the Go Gift Guide: LeSportsac Celebrate Minnie

When the Disney It’s a Small World collaboration ended with its final collection this Fall, I was beyond sad because I adored the line! However LeSportsac hasonce again teamed up with Disney again to take a look back at Minnie Mouse through the decades with the Celebrate Minnie print.

Minnie has been reinventing her look for close to 90 years, and now you can witness her transformation (and ever so glamorous wardrobe) through the years in one fun print! In the 1920′s Minnie was classically chic in black and white, while the 30′s introduced a more colorful look when she first started sporting her iconic polka-dot outfits. The 40′s brought her signature bow, and she stayed on trend throughout the fashion revolutions of the 50′s, 60′s, and 70′s – including a flower-power mini-dress with platform shoes! In the 80′s she was working out in her sneakers and sweatshirt, during the 90′s she rocked a ruffled skirt and denim jacket, and the new millennium brought her back to her polka-dot roots. Today Minnie is an inspiration and muse for fashionistas around the world!

Minnie Mouse is my favorite character, so I can’t wait to get my hands on one of these bags!!!

The LeSportsac Celebrate Minnie print is offered in 18 Classic styles (listed below), and is currently available online.

6506 Lily 6511 Rectangular Cosmetic 7184 Medium Weekender

7185 Large Weekender 7315 Travel Cosmetic 7418 Mini Basic Backpack

7470 Small EveryGirl Tote 7507 Deluxe Everyday Bag 7519 Deluxe Shoulder Satchel

7520 Classic Hobo 7532 Ryan Baby Bag 7562 Small Cleo Crossbody Hobo

7627 Kasey 7812 Basic Backpack 7891 EveryGirl Tote

8070 Ziptop Rollup 8148 Melanie 8170 Medium Dome Cosmetic

I love carrying my Disney LeSportsac purses in and out of the park, because they are lightweight, easy to clean, and are absolutely adorable!

If you’re looking for a great gift for the Disney purse collector on your list, take a look at the LeSportsac Celebrate Minnie print!

On the Go Gift Guide: Disney Eye Found It

I thought that we would start our On the Go Gift Guide with a really fun board game from Wonder Forge, Disney Eye Found It!

Disney Eye Found It features a jumbo game board that is filled to brim with whimsical artwork and starring your favorite Disney characters.

Join Mickey Mouse and friends on an exciting race through 12 exquisitely illustrated Disney realms, from Radiator Springs and Alice’s Wonderland to Peter Pan’s Never Land and Pooh’s Hundred Acre Wood. Throughout the race, everyone searches for iconic Disney objects…and gets a chance to say, “I found it!”

Disney Eye Found It at a Glance

Players:

Game is for 2-6 players ages 5 and up

Promotes:

Cooperation and teamwork
Observation skills and attention to detail
Reinforces object identification and matching skills

Product Contents:

1 Six-foot Game Board in three sections
6 Movers
6 Mover Bases
1 Spinner
12 Mickey Mouse Ear Tokens
30 Search Cards
1 Sand Timer
1 Game Rules Manual

When you are setting up Disney Eye Found It, make sure that you have a LOT of space! When they say Jumbo, they totally mean Jumbo! We set the game up on our dining room table, which was the perfect place to play the game since everyone had a seat and it was a flat surface for the board to fit together.

The board is chocked full of detail that is beyond perfect for any Disney fan, and it is really easy to get lost in the details! We ended up giving the younger ones playing a little more time and hints since the board is so gigantic!

Here are some of my favorite Disney realms features in Disney Eye Found It!

We all had a really great time playing Disney Eye Found It, and it is definitely a game we will pull out again to play for our Family Game Nights!

Disclosure: Through a partnership with Wonder Forge Games, I have received a promotional item in exchange for this post. All opinions and thoughts are my own!

Epcot’s Candlelight Processional

While Candlelight Processional at Walt Disney World is a must do for many of my friends, this year was the first time I’ve ever watched it!

httpv://youtu.be/05w8C62Emdg

I grew up in the parks and I’m sure we were here around Christmas time, however, even as an adult, I can’t believe I had never seen this show before. This is definitely the way to get you in the holiday mood!

It was quite the experience!

Watching the cast choir fill into all their spots.

Listening to and enjoying the live orchestra.

And then there was Gary Sinise, who was the narrator for the night that I was in attendance. (For a full list of Candlelight Processional narrators for 2013, you can view the list here.)

It was so awesome to watch his reactions to certain songs – you can catch some of his head bobbing in the video above 🙂

While I am not a religious person, the songs and show are put together so well and I know that the cast members put in a lot of time for each of their practices.

I hope to now make this a yearly tradition!

Do you have a favorite narrator that you have to see? Is there someone that you would like to see added to the list of narrators at Epcot’s Candlelight Processional?

Pick Six: Universal Orlando CityWalk Announcements

While I am still putting together a lot of my final ideas for a larger post on icFlorida about yesterday’s Universal Orlando CityWalk Announcements (You can find the Press Release here), I wanted to take a moment to look at my initial reactions to what we were shown.

1. Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley

I had a lot of A-ha moments during The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley presentation! Originally I looked at how close the construction of Diagon Alley was to Universal Studios Florida, and I always wondered why it had to be so close to the existing park. And yesterday, when they spoke about how Diagon Alley was wedged into London everything clicked for me! And while I am positively giddy about riding on the Hogwarts Express, given the detail that is going into the streets of Diagon Alley and the Leaky Cauldron (especially the ceiling) I want to camp out now! The current Wizarding World of Harry Potter is one of my most favorite places in any theme park, and I am beyond hopeful about Diagon Alley!

2. Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is going to be everything that you wish a Walt Disney World ‘Value’ Resort would be! The resort will have 900 Rooms and 900 Family Suites at opening with a fun 60’s retro feel. Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort will also boast several large pools for each section of the resort, dining options, high-energy bowling alleys, and more at a manageable walking distance to the parks. I love fun resorts, and with the proximity to the park this ‘Value’ resort really has value.

3. The Cowfish / The Hot Dog Hall of Fame

The Cowfish and The Hot Dog Hall of Fame that will be coming to Universal CityWalk are fun and quirky! The Cowfish is a mix of sushi and burgers in a fun environment (there will be tablets in the Sushi Bar for people to surf as they sit under Pop Art), and the result is ‘Burgushi’ which include sushi rolls created using burger components and sandwiches created using sushi elements. The Hot Dog Hall of Fame boasts signature Hot Dogs from around the country and a Mustard Bar with custom mustards created from a partnership from the National Mustard Museum. If you love Hot Dogs, how can you not be excited about this restaurant coming to Universal Orlando CityWalk? Amid Bars and themed restaurants, I am looking forward to the fun options and atmosphere that these two locations will bring to the mix of CityWalk!

4. Starbucks / Menchies / Cold Stone Creamery

While I would have loved to see all original offerings at the Universal Orlando CityWalk announcement, I have to say that choosing to expand the Starbucks presence and adding Menchies and Cold Stone Creamery to CityWalk make more sense and go with the ‘best in class’ mind-set that is going into the renovation of Universal Orlando’s CityWalk. Starbucks moving downstairs and into a larger space that will be filled with seating (Yay!) and innovative touches is a win for everyone, because it is more accessible and adds another location to grab a quick breakfast at the parks which has always been an issue with my family. Menchies and Cold Stone Creamery are solid yogurt and ice cream places that are family favorites, which is important when you have a little (or big) kid who needs a treat after a long day in the theme parks!!!

5. Antojitos / The Red Oven / Bread Box / Pranzo

And now we come to the unique restaurants that are coming to Universal Orlando CityWalk! Antojitos is a going to be more of a culinary journey than passive restaurant experience. The themed facade of Anotjitos is where you start your trip to cantinas, street carts, and markets of Mexico for tapas-style dining with authentic Mexican food.The Red Oven is open now, and amid an modern Italian atmosphere you can find a huge variety of brick oven pizzas and salads. The Bread Box will feature hand made breads and sandwiches with fresh ingredients to capture the feel of the Deli of your childhood or movies! Pranzo will feature modern Italian foods and hand made pastas. The common thread between the variety of restaurants is that there will be a focus on using only fresh ingredients, that are hand-made, and sometimes even created as you watch. While I am a HUGE Mythos fan (aren’t we all though…Universal butter, bread that you can’t stop eating, and delicious dishes), I always find myself wanting more of a fresh feel to my meal. So beyond beautiful decor, I am excited to find these kinds of foods offered in a Theme Park Area.

6. Shopping!

I will admit that the shop-a-holic in me really wished there was more on this front, I am excited to see what the new Universal Studios Store will offer! The design will also boast more interactivity and fresh design elements. It is a great place to catch those souvenirs that you said you would go back to pick up that you might have forgotten.

With all these locations opening as the first phase of a Universal Orlando CityWalk revitalization by June of 2014, it makes me really excited to see what phase 2 is going to bring besides me spending more time there!

Universal Orlando CityWalk Announcements For 2014

Universal Orlando Resort Unveils Expansion

Plans for its

Universal Orlando CityWalk Entertainment Complex

Historic Expansion Kicks off an Epic Year for Universal Orlando Resort

This is the Press Release about the Universal Orlando CityWalk Expansion, you can find more of an opinion piece on the expansion here!

Universal Orlando’s CityWalk will undergo a historic expansion during 2014 – all part of an epic year for Universal that will include the opening of the destination’s largest hotel, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

Universal Orlando announced Thursday that it will open eight new venues across CityWalk throughout 2014 as part of a bold growth strategy designed to complement the entertainment complex’s already popular collection of national brands.

The expansion comes after a nationwide search for culinary concepts that include a mix of established national brands, up-and-coming concepts and Universal’s own creations. The new venues will share an overall theme that includes inviting common areas, al fresco dining, open kitchens and more.

“We want Universal CityWalk to grow along with the rest of our destination,” said Ric Florell, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Resort Revenue Operations at Universal Orlando. “We are bringing our guests an amazing new collection of experiences that will be world-class and offer something for everyone.”

The new venues include Hot Dog Hall of Fame, featuring iconic hot dog creations from some of our nation’s most famous ball parks. Universal partnered with Steven Schussler, the global culinary concept creator behind popular restaurants like Rain Forest Cafe, Backfire Barbecue and more, to bring his Hot Dog Hall of Fame concept to CityWalk. They also include CowFish, an innovative and trend-setting concept out of Charlotte, North Carolina with a signature dish called “Burgushi;” and popular frozen treat spots Cold Stone Creamery and Menchie’s.

Original concepts include Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food, a unique tapas-style restaurant, Bread Box, a home-style sandwich shop; A new modern Italian kitchen concept, where guests can watch as the culinary team handcrafts their pasta from scratch; and Red Oven Pizza Bakery – Universal’s first-ever Neopolitan-style pizza bakery, which is now open.

A full list of new venues and descriptions can be found below. Exact opening dates will be released at a later time.

Since its opening in 1999, Universal CityWalk has served as the “entertainment capital of Orlando,” quickly becoming the hottest place in town among locals and visitors to grab a bite to eat, catch a movie, dance the night away and more. The two-tiered, 30-acre complex features a collection of nightclubs, restaurants and shops themed after some of the most recognizable names in entertainment, including Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom, Emeril’s Restaurant Orlando, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville and Bubba Gump Shrimp Company. Universal CityWalk is also home to Rising Star – an energetic karaoke club where guests can perform with a live band and backup singers, the 36-hole mini-golf course, Hollywood Drive-In Golf, and the indescribable, nationally-renowned live show, Blue Man Group.

For more information about Universal CityWalk, visit: https://www.universalorlando.com.

New Universal CityWalk Venues

Opening Throughout 2014

NOW OPEN – Red Oven Pizza Bakery: Take a quick trip to Italy for authentic, artisan pizza–made fresh, while you wait–at Universal CityWalk’s first-ever Neopolitan-style pizza bakery. The combination of the highest quality ingredients and a traditional 900-degree stone-lined oven ensures every slice is pizza perfection.

Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food: Take a journey through the cantinas, street carts, and markets of Mexico for unique tapas-style dining at Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food. Only the freshest ingredients are used to create craveable, made from scratch Mexican street fare in an environment of unmatched authenticity.

Hot Dog Hall of Fame: Strike out your hunger at Hot Dog Hall of Fame with some of the most iconic hot dog creations from our nation’s most famous ballparks. Take a seat in the bleachers and enjoy a loaded Chicago dog with all the toppings, a perfectly charred Boston brat, a monster LA dog and more.

The Cowfish: Innovative sushi joins forces with creative burgers for an untraditional dining experience at this reincarnation of the popular North Carolina hotspot. The result: “Burgushi”. A cutting-edge fusion of burger and sushi, burgushi items include sushi rolls created using burger components and sandwiches created using sushi elements.

A new modern Italian kitchen concept (Pranzo): Immerse yourself in the essence of modern Italian cuisine at this new restaurant created by Universal Orlando. Watch as the culinary team handcrafts your pasta from scratch to create fresh takes on classic dishes in a clean, contemporary dining atmosphere.

Cold Stone Creamery: For more than 25 years, Cold Stone Creamery has served up the finest, freshest ice cream, cakes, smoothies and shakes using only the highest quality ingredients and their signature process of preparing your custom ice cream creation on a frozen granite stone.

Bread Box: With a Bread Box sandwich, you’ll be transported back to your childhood kitchen or your favorite street corner deli. Here you’ll find that the combination of quality meats and vegetables, fresh bread, and simple preparation can transform a sandwich into something more.

Menchie’s: One of the world’s most popular frozen yogurt shops is coming to Universal CityWalk. The dream was to create a place where people from all walks of life and ages could enjoy themselves—not only with great tasting, quality frozen yogurt and an expansive self-serve toppings bar, but with a unique experience in a fun and happy environment that makes you smile.

About Universal Orlando Resort

Vacation like you mean it at Universal Orlando Resort – where every heart pounding, jaw-dropping, goose-bumping second counts. With two incredible theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure, three magnificently themed on-site hotels and a nighttime entertainment complex, Universal Orlando is the only place where you can turn spending time with your family into spending time as a family. Together, you can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, become a Minion in the hilarious and heartwarming Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, and join Optimus Prime in the fight to save mankind on the new mega-attraction, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D.

Universal Orlando Resort is part of NBCUniversal, a Comcast company. Follow Universal Orlando Resort on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

Disneyland Resort First Impressions

Instead of another comprehensive trip report from me on my recent Disneyland visit, I thought I’d do something different and interview my mom, Pam, on her first visit.

What was your overall first impression of Disneyland Resort?

It is a more detailed version of Walt Disney World. It is more compact. I liked it and think their Downtown Disney has a more homey feel. Disneyland has better places to eat than the Magic Kingdom.

What was your favorite show?

World of Color was reminiscent of a show called Dancing Waters from back in the 1950s that I enjoyed as a child. Aladdin in Disney California Adventure was great. My favorite characters were the Genie and the carpet. How a character without any lines can portray so much emotion in playing a carpet was amazing. I also really liked Mickey and the Magical Map in Disneyland. I loved the swing dancers on Saturday night at Disneyland too!

What was your favorite ride in each park?

In Disneyland, I liked Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage. I thought it was a nice themed ride with attention to detail. It was a long, relaxing ride. At California Adventure I liked Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree, Golden Zephyr and the non-swinging cars on Mickey’s Fun Wheel.

Which did you like better, Haunted Mansion Holiday or It’s A Small World Holiday?

That’s a tough one. I liked them both. The Haunted Mansion Holiday was really nice with the theming, but this brought such a change to the ride from the regular Haunted Mansion. The queues are also both so different from Walt Disney World. I enjoy the exteriors both, but really like the southern mansion style of the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland. I think the theming at Haunted Mansion more immersive and complete than It’s A Small World.

What were some of your favorite food items or meals?

At California Adventure, definitely Carthay Circle. The Cozy Cone breakfast cone was good and a little different for a breakfast item. Churros were excellent. Those were always our go to snack. Bengal BBQ in Disneyland and Jolly Holiday Bakery were both places we visited twice. Flavored cokes from Coke Corner were great and brought back memories of working at a soda fountain in high school.

What were your favorite holiday decorations at Disneyland Resort?

World of Color Winter Dreams, It’s A Small World Holiday and the lights in Cars Land

What did you think about the Grand Californian?

It reminded me a lot of one of our favorite resorts at Walt Disney World, the Wilderness Lodge. It was bigger than I expected. We had a great meal at Napa Rose. It was a great location and nice that we could walk directly into the park from our resort.

What do you takeaway from the trip?

I was delightfully surprised. I thought it was just going to be a smaller version of Walt Disney World and thought I was going to be disappointed. The Cast Members really went out of their way to say Happy Birthday and your name. The theming was wonderful. I liked the more friendly village feeling to Downtown Disney. Also enjoyed Trader Sam’s theming and the holiday drinks at Disneyland Hotel.

Universal CityWalk New Year’s Eve Celebration

Universal CityWalk Drops New Year’s Eve Celebration Details and Advanced Ticket Offers!

Celebration features access to six Universal CityWalk venues, unlimited gourmet cuisine,

six unique party zones and Orlando’s biggest dance floor

On December 31, 2013, guests can experience non-stop entertainment at Eve, Universal CityWalk’s new, incomparable New Year’s celebration.With unique party zones – each featuring their own entertainment and signature drinks, access to six different clubs with live music and unlimited gourmet cuisine,Eve will be the place to ring in the New Year.

Partygoers can celebrate all night on Orlando’s biggest dance floor – built just for this event – in front of the CityWalk Plaza Stage. Whenmidnight strikes, guests will kiss 2013 goodbye in style with a champagne toast, a pyrotechnics display and incredible special effects.

Tickets are on-sale now for Universal CityWalk New Year’s Eve Celebration advance pricing of $99.99 plus tax until December 21, 2013.

Admission to Universal CityWalk New Year’s Eve Celebration festivities include:

Unlimited gourmet cuisine, including filet mignon, jumbo shrimp, custom desserts, and more
Six unique outdoor party zones with entertainment and signature drinks
Orlando’s largest dance floor, featuring live music from DJ M-Squared on a 360˚ DJ platform
Admission to six Universal CityWalk venues, including: Bob Marley’s – A Tribute to Freedom, Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville, Pat O’Brien’s, the groove, Rising Star and Red Coconut Club
Midnight champagne toast and pyrotechnics display

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.citywalk.com/Eve.

Make sure you also follow Universal Orlando Resort on Facebook and Twitter for information and special offers!

Wordless Wednesday: Germany Glass Ornament Artist

Wordless Wednesday:

December 11, 2013

Snacking On The Go With Mario Snack Olives Giveaway

While I have found some ‘Theme Park Friendly’ options for snacks to bring with us into the parks for Zoe, finding snacks that I enjoy taking to the parks has proven to be quite the quest until I found Mario Snack Olives!

Theme Park Friendly snacks, for our family, are ones that don’t melt, aren’t sticky, don’t require us to have a table to eat them, and can be eaten without preparation.

Mario Snack Olives fit all of those criteria and more!

Packaged without the typical brine, the Snack Olives are easy to open, easily fit into my park bag, and come in a variety of flavors sure to make any olive lover happy!

Here are some of my favorite ways to bring Mario Snack Olives as I am On the Go in the Theme Parks!

If we are going to be in the parks all day, I like to pack a heavy snack to keep our blood sugar (and mood) up! I can’t tell you how many times this snack has salvaged our day in the park! Using inexpensive containers that stack nicely in my park bag, each member of our family gets their own treat with what they enjoy!

I like to add Mario Snack Olives to my salads! Since they are packaged without a lot of mess, it is easy to tear open a pouch to add an extra kick to my salad!

And finally, they are delicious on their own! I am guilty of opening a pouch to snack on while I am waiting in a queue or for a parade!

Want to give Mario Snack Olives a try? You can find them here on Amazon, in 7/11 stores in the Tampa, Lakeland and Miami areas, or by entering our Giveaway!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This Holiday Season, Mario/Camacho Foods is hosting a pretty amazing set of Florida centric eBay auctions benefiting the JDRF Tampa Bay Chapter!

The JDRF eBay auctions Include travel packages, memorabilia, gift baskets, and even airline tickets!

West Palm Beach Package:
- 2 tickets for Lion Country Safari + 4 tickets to Rapids Water Park
Miami Package:
- 2 adult tickets + 4 children tickets to Monkey Jungle + 4 tickets to the Miami Zoo
Tampa’s Lowery Park Zoo:
- 4 admission tickets
Tampa’s Florida Aquarium:
- 2 admission tickets

St. Augustine Package #1:
- 4 admission tickets to the Lightner Museum + 4 admission tickets to the Victory III Scenic Cruise
St. Augustine Package #2:
- 4 admission tickets to the Lightner Museum + 4 admission tickets to the St. Augustine Lighthouse Museum
Tampa Bay Package #1:
- 4 admission tickets to the Tampa Bay Storm (2014-2015 season) + 4 admission tickets to The Tampa Improv
Tampa Bay Package #2:
- 4 admission tickets to the Tampa Bay Storm (2014-2015 season) + 4 admission tickets to The Tampa Improv
Clearwater Marine Aquarium:
- 4 admission tickets
Orlando Package:
- 2 admission tickets to Wonder Works & Dinner Show + 2 admission tickets to Gatorland + 2 night stay at the Nickelodeon Suites 2 bedroom kids suite.
Sea World and Aquatica:
- admission on Combo Tickets (14 consecutive days)
Southwest Airlines:
- 2 round trip airfares in the US
Tampa Bay Rays Baseball signed by Sam Fuld
Pamper Me Spa Gift Basket
Pamper Me Spa Gift Basket
Mario Gift Basket
La Vieja Fabrica and Susaron Gift Basket

These amazing eBay auctions will end this Friday, December 13, 2013, so make sure that you check them out and bid soon!

Putting Edge Glow In The Dark Golf

We recently had the chance to visit Putting Edge, which is an indoor glow in the dark Mini Golf place here in Orlando. I have walked past it before, and always been curious so when we saw that they had a Groupon for it, we thought it was time that we paid it a visit. Putting Edge is located inside of Festival Bay Mall, which is in the middle of being re-imagined into a more popular outlet mall design. So there is plenty of parking available as at the moment there is only the movie theatre at this side, a book store and the mini golf.

The Groupon we purchased was just $10 for 2 to play, which was half price off regular admission. On entering you get to select your color golf ball and they give you a glow bracelet to wear that corresponds to the color ball you chose.

You are given a score card, and then an extra card that was so you could participate in the fun trivia found at each hole. You could then compare your answers at the end to see how many you got correct. It was fun as it was all winter based and Christmas themed!

It doesn’t take too long for your eyes to adjust, the colors are so vibrant and vivid it feels like everything is in 3D! Every now and then you get a hole that suggests you take the fun challenge, which consisted in tasks that made the course harder or just silly. For instance, one of them suggested that you hit the ball backwards the whole way, another you couldn’t step on the floor to take the shots, only the props! Sounds silly at first, but you do really get in to it, makes it so fun!

We went on a Thursday night so it wasn’t very busy which meant we were able to take our time and take lots of fun pictures along the course!

Each hole had a different theme, so each time you walked around the corner it was fun to see what fun decorations and illusions they had! I really loved the shark and pirate themed one!

Unlike outdoor mini golf, this indoor one played music throughout and you were even able to write down song requests so you could play to your favorite songs, which we thought was a fun idea!

We also noticed they have a party room too that was all glow in the dark too, and this could be rented out for private functions and birthday parties etc.

We really had fun at this mini golf and it doesn’t take too long to get round the 18 holes so its fun night out for families or friends. The Groupon made it an even better deal and it didn’t expire until the end of January 2014, certainly worth a visit for something unique and local!

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Celebrates ISS Anniversary

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to Celebrate International Space Station’s 15^th Anniversary December 10, 2013

Event Features Photo Opportunities with Astronauts, Panel Discussion & More

In celebration of the 15^th anniversary of the International Space Station (ISS), Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is hosting crew members of the first space shuttle mission to construct the ISS on Tuesday, Dec. 10. STS-88 crewmembers attending include Kennedy Space Center Director and mission commander Robert Cabana and mission specialists Jerry Ross and Nancy Currie.

On Dec. 10, 1998, the six-member crew aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour became the first people to enter the newly created International Space Station after transporting the American connecting node, Unity, and connecting it with the Russian module, Zarya.

The anniversary celebration at the Visitor Complex includes photo opportunities for the public with the astronauts at Space Shuttle Atlantis from 10 to 11 a.m. A panel discussion and Q & A with the astronaut crew takes place at 12:30 p.m. at the Astronaut Encounter Theater. Seating is provided on a first come, first serve basis. In addition, “Space Station 3D,” narrated by Tom Cruise, showcases the very beginning of the International Space Station in the IMAX^® Theater.

At 11:30 a.m. limited seating is offered for a special Lunch With An Astronaut for an additional charge, plus general admission with a special guest appearance by astronauts Jerry Ross and Nancy Currie, in addition to featured astronaut Jack Lousma, pilot of Skylab-3 and commander of STS-3.

httpv://youtu.be/diGFsojER8Q

The STS-88 crew traveled a total of 4.7 million miles during a 12-day mission to transport the 12.8 ton Unity connecting module and begin assembly of the ISS. Beyond connecting the two modules, the crew’s mission included powering on the station and installing hardware. Commander Bob Cabana and Russian Cosmonaut Sergei Krikalev were the first to enter Unity and open the hatch into Zarya, officially marking the dawn of a new era in global space partnership.

Considered one of the greatest technological, geopolitical and engineering achievements in history, the International Space Station is a collaborative effort between 15 nations. More than 69 countries have participated in research and educational activities on the orbiting laboratory that advances fundamental scientific knowledge, supports the exploration of space beyond low Earth orbit and provides a multitude of benefits to humans on Earth.

Photo opportunities and the panel discussion are included in admission to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, which is $50 + tax for adults and $40 + tax for children ages 3 – 11. Lunch With An Astronaut is an additional $29.99 + tax for adults and $15.99 + tax for children ages 3 – 11.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call 877-313-2610 and visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.

About Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex brings to life the epic story of the U.S. space program, offering a full day or more of fun and educational activities, including the Kennedy Space Center Tour featuring the Saturn V Center with an actual Saturn V moon rocket, the new Angry Birds^™ Space Encounter, Shuttle Launch Experience, 3D IMAX^® space films, Astronaut Encounter, Exploration Space: Explorers Wanted and many other interactive exhibits. The new $100 million home for Space Shuttle Atlantis^SM opened June 29, 2013. Admission also includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame^®, featuring historic spacecraft and the world’s largest collection of personal astronaut memorabilia, which opens daily at noonand closing times vary by season. Only 45 minutes from Orlando, Fla., Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opens daily at 9 a.m. with closing times varying by season. Admission is $50 + tax for adults and $40 + tax for children ages 3-11. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers annual passes starting at $75 + tax for adults and $60 + tax for children ages 3-11. For more information, call 877-313-2610 or visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.

Barry Manilow Ticket Giveaway – Amway Center – Orlando, Florida

I am so excited that multi-million selling artist Barry Manilow will be coming to the Amway Center to perform his collection of smash hits on Saturday, January 18, 2014!!!

Barry Manilow, the undisputed number one adult contemporary artist of all time, brings his high-energy, hit-packed concert to cities across the globe. With more than 50 top 40 hits like “Mandy,” “Can’t Smile Without You” and “Copacabana (at The Copa),” Manilow performs for one night only.

With worldwide record sales exceeding 80 million, Manilow’s inimitable career encompasses virtually every arena of entertainment, including performing, writing, composing, arranging and producing. A Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, Manilow has produced, arranged and released more than 40 albums during the course of his career. He has also written and produced songs for legendary artists such as Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler, Dionne Warwick and many more. He has been honored with a Grammy®, two Emmys, a Tony Award, an Oscar nomination and a top-selling autobiography.

But, I am even more excited to be giving away two (2) tickets to see Barry Manilow at the Amway Center!!! (please see Contest Rules Below)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Barry Manilow at the Amway Center Ticket Information

Tickets to see Barry Manilow at the Amway Center in Orlando are on sale now!

$25, $50, $100 & $150 | All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling and facility fee charges.

It’s important to keep in mind that door opening times for the Amway Center vary according to each event. Guests may enter the arena one hour prior to the start time of each event, unless otherwise specifically noted. Guests may check door times in advance by calling 407.440.7900.

Also know that the show reserves the right to approve camera use at any time during and/or before the event and to prohibit the use of any camera that is deemed unacceptable. Cameras with a detachable lens, iPads and the use of flash photography are prohibited at all Amway Center events. Check amwaycenter.com or call the administration office at 407.440.7000 prior to the event for any camera policy updates. Camera policy is subject to change at any time at the show’s discretion.

Disclosure: Through a partnership with the Amway Center,I have received tickets to see Barry Manilow in exchange for this post. All thoughts and opnions are my own.

Contest Rules: Contest is open to Residents of the United States who are eighteen(18) years and older. Void where prohibited by law. We use rafflecopter to choose one lucky winner at random, and each & every contest entry will be verified. The winner of our contest will be contacted by email (so be sure to double check your entry) and will have 48 hours to respond to the email or a new winner will be chosen. The winner will be responsible for picking up their tickets on the day of the show at the Amway Center’s Will Call with a valid photo ID. Parking at the Amway Center is not included in this contest. Any questions? Contact shelley@onthegoinmco.com

SeaWorld Orlando Animal Rescue Team Returns Two Manatees

SeaWorld Orlando Returned Two Manatees to Florida Waters after Months of Rehabilitation

The SeaWorld Orlando Animal Rescue Team returned two female manatees into East Coast waters this week after receiving treatment and care at SeaWorld Orlando for several months.

On Tuesday, the Animal Rescue Team successfully returned Vesuvia, a 5 year-old sub adult female manatee, to the waters of Front Street Park in Melbourne. She was rescued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) in April after sustaining watercraft injuries in the Indian River in Melbourne. She was transported to SeaWorld Orlando after her rescue where she received radiographs, antibiotics and regular flushing of deep abscesses on her body. During rehabilitation, Vesuvia gained 110 pounds, and weighed 855 pounds when she was returned.

This morning, Dorothy-Gail, a female independent manatee calf approximately 3 years old, was returned to the waters at Parrish Park in Titusville, Fla. Dorothy-Gail was rescued from New Smyrna Beach’s Mosquito Lagoon this past May by the FWC and SeaWorld Orlando’s Animal Rescue Team. Dorothy-Gail suffered from watercraft injuries and was transported to SeaWorld Orlando where she received antibiotics, fluids, radiographs and other supportive care. She gained 15 pounds during rehabilitation, and weighed 645 pounds at the time of her return.

In collaboration with the government and other members of accredited stranding networks, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment operates one of the world’s most respected programs to rescue ill and injured marine animals, with the goal to rehabilitate and return to the waters. SeaWorld animal experts have helped more than 22,000 animals in need – ill, injured, orphaned and abandoned – for more than four decades. So far this year, SeaWorld Orlando has rescued 17 manatees and returned 10, including today’s return.

The Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP) is a cooperative group of non-profit, private, state, and federal entities who work together to monitor the health and survival of rehabilitated and released manatees. Information about manatees currently being tracked is available at www.wildtracks.org.

If you see injured marine animal, you can help by calling the FWC hotline at 1(888) 404-3922 or by dialing *FWC on a cellular device.

All manatee rescue footage produced by SeaWorld under FWS Permit Number MA7701911.

Taking the Plunge at Gaylord Palms Ice!

Take the PLUNGE at Gaylord Palms ICE!

Be inducted into the Orlando Polar Bear Club at Polar Bear Plunge 2013 presented by Orlando Solar Bears

Sometimes there are events that happen, and you say maybe next year…well that is what is happening for me soon! I will be wearing by bathing suit to ‘Take the Plunge’ down an ICE! slide at the Gaylord Palms Resort on Sunday, December 8th for a great cause!

The Orlando Polar Bear Plunge 2013 is presented by Orlando Solar Bears takes place one day only, and $5 from every adult ticket sold for this special event will benefit Greater Orlando Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

Members of famed Polar Bear Clubs around the world gather to jump into freezing-cold, winter-chilled water wearing just a swimsuit. Here in sunny Florida, residents can participate in this event – with a twist. Jaunt through the 9-degree ICE! featuring Frosty the Snowman™ attraction in a bikini or board shorts and plummet down four, two-story ice slides!

The adrenaline rush officially begins at 8 a.m., but the party jumps off at 7 a.m. to welcome guests as official members of the Orlando Polar Bear Club. Take a picture and meet and greet with Shades, Orlando Solar Bears’ official mascot. Prepare those joints by dancing and participating in DJ games, be part of a group photo, and earn a commemorative certificate.

Orlando Polar Bears unite once a year for this early morning charity event, this year benefiting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Take advantage of this offer to make history and someone’s day.

The special Orlando Polar Bear Plunge ticket is $18.99 + tax, and includes the “after-glow” warm-up reception with hot cocoa and pastries along with the commemorative certificate. Also, participants will have a chance to go through ICE! again later that morning, fully clothed, to better enjoy the artistry at a slower (and warmer) pace. Purchase tickets online in advance at www.OrlandoPolarBearClub.com.

While it sounds crazy, and I can already hear my Mom asking me that very question, where else will I be able to do something like this???

I hope that some of you will read this, and decide to join me!!!

Things to know before you ‘Plunge’ at Gaylord Palms ICE!

What to wear
To get the full Orlando Polar Bear Club experience, inductees are encouraged to walk through the ICE! attraction in their swimsuits, but summer clothing such as shorts and a T-shirt can be worn instead. Swimsuits must be in good taste, and close-toed shoes are required for entry. Along with wearing swimsuits, guests are strongly encouraged to wear hats, gloves, warm socks and other cold-weather accessories.

Safety
This is not a contest, so participants should expect to spend only a few minutes inside ICE! After all, only real polar bears are expected to hang out in 9 degrees!

Freeze the moment
Don’t leave home without a camera! Guests will want to freeze this moment for sure! It is also possible that media will be present to cover the event, so smile for the cameras! You could even end up on Facebook!

ICE! featuring Frosty the Snowman is open daily now through Jan. 5, 2014, including holidays. To purchase tickets and to see a full schedule of activities and events, go to www.ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com.

For more information and to purchase tickets to an Orlando Solar Bears professional ECHL ice hockey game, visit www.orlandosolarbearshockey.com.

Gaylord Palms Resort is located five minutes from the gates of Walt Disney World at 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, FL 34746.

Be sure to “Like” Gaylord Palms on Facebook and Twitter to get the most up-to-date information and special deals and promotions!

Orlando City Returns For Walt Disney World Pro Soccer Classic

Orlando City and Defending Champion Montreal Impact Return for Walt Disney World Pro Soccer Classic

Lions and Impact among first to commit to the February soccer event at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex; Additional teams expected to be announced soon

Major League Soccer’s Montreal Impact and local favorite Orlando City Soccer Club will compete in the Walt Disney World Pro Soccer Classic at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex this spring. Additional teams will be announced in the next several weeks.

Montreal, which returns for its third straight appearance in the tournament (Feb. 19 – Mar. 1), is back to defend the Disney Pro Soccer Classic title it won over the Columbus Crew a year ago when it blazed through the event undefeated. Montreal is led by Marco Di Vaio, who was third in the league in goals scored last year with 20.

In just three USL-Pro seasons, the Orlando City Lions have won two regular-season titles and two postseason championships, including last year’s championship. This will be the club’s fourth straight appearance in the Disney Pro Soccer Classic, which will sort of be home games for the Lions because they will play their final USL-Pro season home games at ESPN Wide World of Sports this spring before joining the MLS in 2015.

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“We are delighted to once again be competing in the Disney Pro Soccer Classic,’’ said Phil Rawlins, president of Orlando City Soccer Club. “Over the past three years, the Disney Pro Soccer Classic has proved invaluable in giving us game time against the very best teams in North America and preparing our players for the season ahead.”

“We’re excited to have two marquee teams to be among the first to participate in the Pro Soccer Classic. We fully expect this to be the best field in the Pro Soccer Classic’s history. This tournament further shows we are committed to the sport of soccer and now recognized as one of the top training and competition facilities in the world,” said Mike Millay, Director of Sports Development at ESPN Wide World of Sports.

Entering its fifth year, the Disney Pro Soccer Classic is designed to boost interest in soccer throughout Central Florida and establish the area as a prime training and competition destination for pro soccer clubs. Last year, the event at Disney attracted fans from across the U.S. and Canada and gave them a unique opportunity for an intimate fan experience at a world-class facility.

The tournament is just one of more than a dozen popular soccer events held annually at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, which is the leading multi-sports venue in the nation and the official preseason training home of the AS Roma soccer club.

For more information on the Disney Pro Soccer Classic, visit http://espnwwos.disney.go.com. Travel packages are available through GetTravel.com. The packages may include accommodations near Walt Disney World Resort, game tickets, ground transportation, and discounted Disney theme park tickets.

About ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, which hosts more than 350 events a year, is the leading multi-sport venue for amateur and professional sports in the nation, accommodating 70 different sports and athletes from more than 70 countries. Designed to take youth sports to the next level, the 230-acre facility features multiple competition venues, including Champion Stadium, the HP Field House, the Jostens Center, the Hess Sports Fields, a track & field facility, a tennis complex and a baseball/softball sportsplex. It is also home to the ESPN Innovation Lab, a real-world testing ground for the ESPN Emerging Technology Group that develops ground-breaking on-air products like Ball Track and ESPN Snap Zoom. In addition, the complex features 56 high-definition cameras and 40 high-definition video screens, including three jumbo screens, which can capture and display footage from any event taking place at the complex. The camera and video screens, as well as a 20-zone audio system, are controlled through the state-of-the-art HD production center with direct links to ESPN facilities in Bristol, Conn., New York and Los Angeles. For more information, visitwww.disneysportsnews.com for press releases, photos and videos. Follow us on Twitter at @DisneySports and on Facebook.