A Look At Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

Alexanderand-600x889

Let’s face it we’ve all had bad days.  Some terrible.  Some horrible.  Some just plain no good.  And others still very bad.  But what if one day you were faced with a day so awful that all those things got combined together and it was a day that just kept getting worse and worse.  That’s the basic premise behind the 1972 children’s book Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.  A movie adaptation of the film by Disney opens in theaters today, October 10, 2014, and it provides us with a look at not one, but rather two very bad days in the life of Alexander.

This really turns out to be a smart move, as in the past others have tried to focus solely on the bad day described in the book.  However writer Rob Lieber, and indie superstar director Miguel Arteta choose instead to quickly move past that bad day and instead focus the movie on the day after – which also turns out to be Alexander’s birthday.  While there’s no actual magic portrayed in this movie, at the end of his really bad day as it becomes his birthday Alexander makes a wish that his family could know what it’s like to have a bad day also.

From there you can only begin to imagine some of the mayhem that ensues.  It’s clear from watching the movie that the comedy direction was provided by Steve Carell who plays Alexander’s father in the movie.  That works out really well as because while the gags are fairly redone as far as “bad luck” movie gags go, many of them play out with a renewed vigor as a result. While Jennifer Garner, playing the mother, is also great in her role, it’s a shame that she has nowhere near the chemistry with Carell as she had 2 years ago with Joel Edgerton in The Odd Life of Timothy Green.

The strongest factor about this movie is that it’s a solidly constructed family film.  You see, in strong contradiction to the lesson that the Joker tries to teach Batman in The Killing Joke, one bad day doesn’t have to lead to ruin.  Rather it’s how you approach that day, and the things that happen to you in it, and who you survive it with.  In this case Alexander chooses to help his family make it through their day, see his point of view, and they all become stronger for sharing the experiences together.  Fans of the book will like this movie, as will parents looking for a movie to share with their children, and even new fans like myself who now needs to go read a book.

In addition to doing the web design and programming for the On the Go in MCO website, Todd Perlmutter is a host for the Disney Film Project Podcast.

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

GlowBash 5K Tampa Race Recap

GlowBash race shirt & bibThis past weekend my mom and I participated in the GlowBash 5K in Tampa. This race/scavenger hunt kicks off “race season” for me. I try not to run between April and September as the weather here in Florida is typically ungodly hot and humid. The other six months of the year I attempt to do a race a month. This season is going to be a little different. It started with registering for the Avengers 5K in Disneyland for the second weekend in November back about six months or so ago. Then my mom found a zombie run in Sarasota she thought sounded kind of fun on Groupon. We’ve both decided we’d like to do races, but want to focus on some that are more affordable than the runDisney races tend to be. After researching the fact the race was a little more off road than either one of us wanted to deal with since we’ve both had knee surgeries, I found a Living Social coupon for the GlowBash.

The race is typically around eighty dollars per person with a t-shirt, post race refreshments, some glow paraphernalia, and a finisher’s medal. We looked at the GlowBash website and learned it was more of a scavenger hunt around downtown Tampa than a traditional race, and this appealed to my mom. So after finding the deal for half off the race, we registered and then tried to find out more about the race. Not much information was out there as far as race recaps, other than one from several years ago, but it ended up being a bit different.

Packet pickup was the two days prior to the race at two Sports Authority locations in the Tampa area. Any team member could pickup the packets with either a copy of the other teammate’s photo ids or a picture of their ids on a smartphone. This made it relatively easy for one person to get the whole team’s packets and t-shirts instead of each individual having to go. The day of the race an email was sent out from GlowBash warning that there was a Tampa Bay Lightning preseason hockey game at the old Ice Palace (I never can keep up with the changing sponsorship names, so forgive me, it is still the Ice Palace), and that there was a possibility of rain, so come early.

Living about an hour away in Bradenton, we decided to leave at 5pm, two hours prior to the race start so we would have plenty of time to find a paid parking spot with race participants now competing with hockey fans for limited space downtown. We arrived at Ferg’s Live, the bar sponsoring the race, right about 6pm, and splurged for parking paying $20 to literally park next door to the start and finish line for the race. This made life so much easier when we were done, it was well worth the price. We could have showed up about half an hour later, but it was fine getting there early since the weather was actually quite nice. The rain held out, the temps dropped into the mid 70s and there was a gorgeous breeze making it one of the nicest evenings in months weatherwise.

About five minutes before start time, each team captain went to the announcer’s table to pick up the race clues for the scavenger hunt. We were instructed not to look at them and were told we would have two hours to complete 10 out of the 11 clues and come back with proof. Some clues required we take pictures, others we had to get a stamp, a coupon, or a wristband from certain locations all over downtown Tampa. We were warned we were not able to used any motorized mode of transportation. Foot travel only was permitted, and we had to adhere to any traffic laws, meaning no jaywalking and only crossing on the walk signal. This proved to be quite interesting, but also provided a nice rest sometimes in between spots.

Photo Oct 04, 6 15 27 PMPhoto Oct 04, 6 40 46 PM

At 7pm we were on our way! Since neither of us was in any shape to train recently, we both decided before the race we were not running at all, only walking. We had some experience in the race/scavenger hunt area since we had both done runDisney’s Expedition Everest Challenge before, so at least it wasn’t completely foreign to us. Mom had done some homework, looking at maps and points of interest of Tampa that afternoon, and I used my Google Fu as smartphone use was strongly encouraged, as was the use of GPS and maps. We figured out all the clues first, then decided to map out the locations and go in an order that made sense geographically because we had been told the course could be anywhere from 3 to 7 miles depending on the order in which you did the clues. We were not doing seven miles.

Photo Oct 04, 6 54 16 PMPhoto Oct 08, 8 41 25 PMPhoto Oct 04, 6 59 26 PMPhoto Oct 04, 7 03 53 PMPhoto Oct 04, 7 19 21 PMPhoto Oct 04, 7 20 19 PM (1)Photo Oct 04, 7 25 45 PMPhoto Oct 04, 7 48 41 PMPhoto Oct 04, 8 05 13 PMPhoto Oct 04, 8 07 24 PM (1)Photo Oct 04, 8 30 21 PMPhoto Oct 08, 9 34 51 PM

We were unsure of the location of one of the clues exactly, but found that talking to people as we were going around the course helped. Contestants were helping each other with clues and even asking strangers on the street. Part of the scavenger hunt required you to talk to strangers. We even had to quack like a duck for one of the clues. It was a lot of fun, but we were honestly worried at first we wouldn’t finish in the allotted time. We ended up finishing the race in about an hour and a half and exactly at 3.1 miles, so we were happy considering at least half an hour of that was waiting for traffic lights and crosswalks. Mom really enjoyed it and she said it was even more fun than a regular race because it didn’t feel like a race just running in a big circle looking a the same thing.

Photo Oct 04, 8 39 47 PMPhoto Oct 04, 8 44 24 PM

As the name indicates, GlowBash is in the evening with glow necklaces, bracelets, glasses, etc. for the participants to wear, which was cool to see at night all around the city. Folks in Tampa were entertained by us and supportive of us at the same time. There were no road closures or anything, so almost the whole race was completed on sidewalks and crosswalks. It was a different, but fun way to get out, get some exercise and see the city. There’s another one coming up in St. Pete in the spring, and I think we may check that one out too. Have you ever done a scavenger race or other non-traditional race like GlowBash? What were your thoughts?

 

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Fall Getaway Offers From The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

Escape to the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

Relax, Renew and Reconnect with an Orlando Fall Getaway
 
It’s time to get away – far away – from life’s daily demands and Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress offers ultimate escape packages.
Whether you’re planning an intimate couples retreat, girlfriends’ getaway or guys’ golf weekend, Orlando’s original luxury resort provides the perfect setting to unplug and unwind.
Featuring 1,500 acres of award-winning amenities surrounded by a tropical oasis, Grand Cypress boasts countless opportunities for guests to explore, play, and reconnect in “the city beautiful!”  
Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
 
Rise and Relax with a gourmet breakfast at Cascade American Bistro followed by a morning cruise on Lake Windsong or leisurely stroll on the resort’s many jogging, walking and biking trails.
*Bed and Breakfast Package starts at 199*
Splash in Orlando’s Coolest Pool while enjoying classic American favorites poolside including chicken quesadillas, pressed Cuban sandwiches, and fish tacos. Then salute your Orlando getaway with a refreshing cocktail from On the Rocks pool lounge while you float in the quiet-zone pool, kick up your feet in a poolside hammock or catch a game on TV.
 
*Hyatt Romance Package starts at $225*
 
Enjoy Friendly Competition on one of the resort’s Jack Nicklaus Signature Design golf courses or on an award-winning Tennis and Racquet Club court.
*Golf and Tennis Packages start at$254 and $298 respectively*
Experience Orlando with a quick ride on the resort’s complimentary shuttle to popular area attractions including Central Florida’s famous theme parks, museums, sports arenas, world-class shopping and nightly entertainment venues.
            * Orlando Theme Park Package starts at 279*
Celebrate Your Escape with an island-inspired gourmet dinner at Hemingway’s as local fireworks displays light the night sky. Then settle into your Hyatt Grand Bed™ to dream about another fabulous day in the sunshine state!
            *Food & Wine Package starts at $189*
  
About Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
The award-winning, 1,500 acre Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is located one mile from Walt Disney World® and close to Universal Orlando® and SeaWorld® Orlando with a host of amenities and activities including 45 holes of Jack Nicklaus Signature Design golf and the award-winning Tennis and Racquet Club. Located along the 1,000 feet of white sandy beach of private Lake Windsong, the free-flowing lagoon pool boasts 12 waterfalls, heated and non-heated pools, two whirlpools, new Water Slide Tower Pavilion, new children’s Rock Climbing Stations, new interactive Water Jet Splash Zone, rope bridge, walking paths, and expansive, wrap-around sundecks. New features complement the resort’s favorite activities including; S’mores pit, beach volleyball, tether ball, hammocks, watersports and marked jogging, walking, and biking trails.
Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is centrally located with convenient access to Orlando International Airport and Interstate 4 off Exit 68 in Lake Buena Vista. The resort’s address is One Grand Cypress Blvd., Orlando, Florida, USA 32836. For more information; call 407.239.1234; visitGrandCypress.Hyatt.com; like Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress on Facebook; and follow on Twitter at @HRGrandCypress.
Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day Common Sense Seal Recipient

Common Sense Media Announces the Common Sense Seal and

Inaugural Recipient, Disney’s Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

The Common Sense Seal is the first to honor movies with the potential to have a significant impact on kids and families.

Common Sense Media, the nation’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to helping kids thrive in a world of media and technology, today announced the Common Sense Seal, the first honor of its kind to recognize and champion films that delight families with enriching stories and to encourage studios to make more excellent family content that appeals across generations. Since 2003, Common Sense Media has been helping families discover great media through its library of independent, age-based ratings and reviews, and the Common Sense Seal will honor the best of the best in family movies as they make their theatrical debuts. The movies that receive this recognition will meet Common Sense Media’s highest standard based on overall quality in addition to worthwhile themes, positive messages, and role models.

Alexander And The Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day Common Sense Media Common Sense Seal

Disney’s Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, scheduled for wide release on October 10, 2014, is receiving the inaugural Common Sense Seal. Based on Judith Viorst’s classic book by the same name, Alexander is a standout, engaging movie that kids and parents will enjoy together, with important messages about learning to appreciate the good days along with the bad and staying positive and sticking together in the face of adversity. The film offers plenty of funny jokes that are likely to go over kids’ heads — so parents won’t be bored — as well as enough action and laughs to keep everyone entertained.

“We don’t see enough great movies with positive role models and messages that make parents feel like a trip to the movies is time well spent together — and we think families deserve better,” said Jim Steyer, founder and CEO of Common Sense. “The Common Sense Seal will recognize the best in family movies with a goal of inspiring studios to create more films that kids and parents can enjoy together. It’s fitting that a Disney movie should be our first recipient, given the studio’s commitment to making quality family films like Alexander.”

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

“At Disney we believe in making quality entertainment that families can enjoy together, and Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day is not only a great film for families, but it highlights what it means to be a family,” said Alan Horn, chairman of the Walt Disney Studios. “We’re honored that it has been chosen by Common Sense Media for this inaugural seal celebrating its positive message for audiences.”

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

The Common Sense Seal will consider all wide-release theatrical movies targeted at children, tweens, teens, and families. The seal selections are determined by Common Sense Media’s in-house team of seasoned movie reviewers, editors, and child-development experts based on the proven rubric deployed across more than 6,000 movie titles since Common Sense Media’s founding in 2003. The seal will be given to a select number of theatrical releases each year and will be announced in advance of each movie’s premiere.

 Common Sense Media Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day Common Sense Seal Recipient

About Common Sense Media’s Movie Ratings

Common Sense Media rates and reviews movies based on a combination of two factors: age-appropriateness and quality. We rely on developmental guidelines culled from some of the nation’s leading authorities to determine what content is appropriate for which ages. Common Sense Media movie reviews feature a content grid that evaluates specific elements of each movie, including messages, role models, violence/scariness, sex, language, consumerism, and substance use. We know every family and every child is different, but all families need information to make great media choices. Common Sense Media movie reviews also include suggested discussion points for families, providing an opportunity for parents to talk about themes and issues that arise and to convey their own views and values. Common Sense Media movie ratings and reviews are available on our website, through our mobile app, and through our distribution partners. Our unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and are not influenced by the content creators or by our funders.

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

LEGOLAND Florida Celebrates National Fire Prevention Association Day

LEGOLAND Florida

National Fire Prevention Association Day Tomorrow at LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Tomorrow marks a unique event at LEGOLAND Florida Resort as partner National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) hosts a special one-day experience on Thursday, Oct. 9. The event promotes National Fire Prevention week, with special activities throughout the Park educating families on fire safety and prevention.

LEGOLAND Florida hosts NFPA Day on Thursday, October 9th, and the activities are included with your admission to the park.

Here are the LEGOLAND Florida NFPA activities you will find:

  • Polk County Fire Department (PCFD) at the entry of LEGOLAND Florida with one of their fire trucks, allowing guests to take an intimate look at the emergency vehicle. Fire Fighters will also hand out postcards and fire hats to guests from 9a.m.  – 12 p.m.
  • Guests can compete against PCFD Fire Fighters inside the Park and win a prize (max of 4 competitions throughout the day)
  • Interactive education stations around the LEGO City section of the Park. The various stations include trying on fire-fighter gear, testing fire alarms, LEGO builds and more!
  • The Steve Songs Trio will perform in The Big Test Plaza 15 minutes before each Big Test Show at 11:30am, 1:15pm and 3:45pm

The LEGO Movie

LEGOLAND Florida is located at One LEGOLAND Way, Winter Haven, FL, 33884, and the LEGOLAND Florida hours of operation are 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Krispy Kreme Goes Krispy Scream For Halloween

Krispy Kreme Ghostbusters Halloween

Krispy Kreme scares up something sweet this Halloween

Krispy Kreme and Sony Pictures Consumer Products Celebrate Ghostbusters 30th Milestone Anniversary with Ghostbusters and Stay Puft Marshmallow Doughnuts

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts® and Sony Pictures Consumer Products have joined together to mark the 30th anniversary of  the iconic Ghostbusters blockbuster motion picture franchise with two new exclusive marshmallow Kreme™-filled Ghostbuster treats inspired by the supernatural comedy’s sweetest villains.
Krispy Kreme Ghostbusters Halloween
  • Ghostbusters Doughnut: A marshmallow Kreme-filled shell topped with white icing, a decorative green “splat” inspired by Slimer, and a Ghostbusters logo sugar piece.
  • Stay Puft Marshmallow: A marshmallow Kreme-filled shell topped with white icing, decorated with Stay Puft Marshmallow Man’s familiar face and a sugar piece hat.
The Ghostbusters and Stay Puft Marshmallow Doughnuts join Krispy Skremes seasonal favorites – the Jack-o-Lantern, Spider Web, and Halloween Sprinkles doughnuts – for a Halloween assortment so good it’s spooky!
Krispy Kreme Ghostbusters Halloween
  • Jack-o-Lantern Doughnut:  A pumpkin-shaped doughnut wearing a mask of orange icing and a jack-o-lantern face.
  • Halloween Sprinkles Doughnut: A festive orange and black sprinkled doughnut.
  • Spider Web Doughnut: A chocolate-iced doughnut with Kreme™ filling caught in a tasty web of white icing.
These Halloween-themed treats are available now through October 31, 2014 at the following Central Florida locations while supplies last.
Krispy Kreme Winter Park – Drive thru Open 24 hours
1031 S. Orlando Avenue (17-92), Winter Park, FL  32789
Open 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Sunday–Thursday) and
5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Friday and Saturday)
Krispy Kreme Millenia – Open 24 hours
4080 Millenia Blvd., Orlando, FL 32939
Krispy Kreme Kissimmee – Open 24 hours
5310 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway
(192 / Mile Marker 11.5), Kissimmee, FL  34746
Make sure that you connect with Krispy Kreme and Ghostbusters! 
Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Sketchbook Ornaments From The Disney Store

Sketchbook Ornaments Disney Store Christmas Disney

The Disney Store has a new set of Sketchbook Ornaments this year that I am absolutely obsessed with, and my ‘wish list’ of ornaments is crazy!

The Sketchbook Ornaments are so wonderful, because each ornament really captures an iconic character moment using quality finishes at a really reasonable price!

Sketchbook Ornaments Artist Information Disney Christmas

The price point of the ornaments in the line are between $12.95 and $16.95, and the price reflects if an ornament has light and sound features and if it can be personalized.

Sketchbook Ornaments closer details Disney Christmas

These resin ornaments are really beautiful, and no detail has been skipped and the colors used are the same as they are in the movies or shorts. Also, all of the Sketchbook Ornaments feature a 2014 Disney Store Logo Charm.

They even have an exclusive set of on-line Disney Sketchbook Ornaments that are released monthly, and capture ‘Moments that made Disney’. You can see them here. October’s release will celebrate the 1932 release of Flowers and Trees in the Silly Symphonies Series.

So enough talking, lets look at some of my favorites!

2014 Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Anna

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Chip and Dale

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Dalmations

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Donald and Daisy

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Elsa

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Goofy Fishing

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Hula Timon

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Jessica and Roger

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Lady and the Tramp

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Lilo and Stitch

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Mary Poppins

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Mickey and Minnie Kissing

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Mike and Sulley

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Minnie and Figaro

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Olaf on the beach

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Oswald

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Pascal

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Pocahontas and Meeko

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Pooh and Piglet fishing

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Singing Elsa

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Sofia

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Tinker Bell Lantern

The Disney Store’s site is always offering great deals, and you can get free shipping everyday for orders over $75 when you use the code SHIPMAGIC at checkout. Make sure that you sign up for their email list for even more offers!

So what do you think of the new Sketchbook Ornaments from the Disney Store? Will you be picking one up for the holidays?

Disney Store Sketchbook Ornaments Card

Also, I just wanted to add a note that this post is not sponsored. I really love these ornaments and wanted to share them with you!

 

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Marvel’s Guardians Of The Galaxy Coming to Blu-ray

Guardians of the Galaxy DVD

Marvel’s GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY arrives on Digital HD plus Disney Movies Anywhere November 18th and on Blu-ray™ 3D Combo Pack, Blu-ray, DVD and On-Demand December 9th!

The comedic adventure is packed with never-before-seen deleted scenes, gag reel, and an exclusive look at “Marvel’s The Avengers: Age of Ultron” and more! 

Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy film has earned over $645 million worldwide and recently passed the $300 million mark at both the domestic and international box offices. Guardians of the Galaxy opened domestically August 1 with $94.3 million to become the biggest August debut of all time and ultimately the biggest August release ever; it’s also the highest grossing film of the year and the first to surpass $300 million in 2014 domestically. After becoming the 10th straight Marvel Studios film to open at #1, Guardians of the Galaxy occupied the top spot domestically for four of its first six weekends in release.

If you haven’t seen Guardians of the Galaxy…WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR???

Synopsis:  From Marvel, the studio that launched the epic franchises of “Iron Man,” “Thor,” “Captain America” and “Marvel’s The Avengers,” comes an unlikely new team—the “Guardians of the Galaxy.”  The Marvel Cinematic Universe expands into the cosmos when brash space adventurer Peter Quill steals a coveted orb and becomes the object of a relentless bounty hunt. To evade his enemies, Quill forges an uneasy truce with Rocket, a gun-toting raccoon; Groot, a tree-like humanoid; the deadly assassin Gamora; and the revenge-driven Drax. But when Quill discovers the true power of the orb, he must rally his ragtag band of misfits for a desperate battle that will decide the fate of the galaxy. Featuring amazing new characters and exclusive bonus features, this must-own blockbuster will have you hooked on a feeling… of pure adrenaline!

Guardians of the Galaxy

Cast: Chris Pratt (“The Lego Movie,” TV’s “Parks and Recreation”) as Peter Quill, Zoe Saldana (“Avatar,” “Star Trek”) as Gamora, Dave Bautista (“Riddick,” “The Man with the Iron Fists”) as Drax, Vin Diesel (“Fast and the Furious” series, “Riddick”) as Groot, Bradley Cooper (“American Hustle,” “Silver Linings Playbook”) as Rocket, Lee Pace (“The Hobbit” series, “Lincoln”) as Ronan, Michael Rooker (TV’s “The Walking Dead”) as Yondu Udonta, Karen Gillan (“Oculus,” TV’s “Doctor Who”) as Nebula, Djimon Hounsou (“How to Train Your Dragon 2,” “Gladiator”) as Korath, John C. Reilly (“Wreck-It Ralph,” “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby”) as Corpsman Dey, Glenn Close (TV’s “Damages,” “Tarzan”) as Nova Prime and Benicio Del Toro(“Traffic,” “The Usual Suspects”) as The Collector.

I know that I can’t wait to pick up a copy of Guardians of the Galaxy, can you?

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

PhotoKey Launches At Busch Gardens Tampa

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay PhotoKey Logo

Busch Gardens Launches PhotoKey: A new photo sharing program in the Park

PhotoKey Allows Guests to Collect, View and Share Photos Instantly


Busch Gardens Tampa has launched PhotoKey, a new photo sharing program that allows guests to collect, view and share their unforgettable in-park experiences. PhotoKey users can collect photos using their PhotoKey card and view and share photos instantly with the PhotoKey mobile app.

Guests can purchase PhotoKey online at buschgardens.com or at any photo station inside the park and take advantage of photo opportunities at most roller coasters, the park entrance, with roaming photographers or even on a Serengeti Safari.

The PhotoKey mobile app is available for download on Android and iPhone and users can also purchase products in-park and online to create one-of-a-kind memorabilia, including prints, frames, key chains, posters, bed sheets and more.

PhotoKey Benefits:

  • Unlimited Access – All photos can be viewed, shared and downloaded at any park Photo location, on the PhotoKey mobile app or on the PhotoKey website.
  • Save on Purchases – Receive discounts on in-park photo products that are available at any photo location.
  • Keepsakes – Photos can be customized into various keepsakes through exclusive access to the PhotoKey website and buschgardens.com/photokey.

Visit buschgardens.com for PhotoKey details and pricing, as well as Pass Member discounts.

Busch Gardens Tampa logo PhotoKey

Be the first to know about new events, special deals and future announcements by following the park’s blog at BuschGardensTampaBlog.com, or “Like” the Busch Gardens Facebook page, and follow @buschgardens on Twitter and Instagram.

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

A Disney Parks Blog Not-So-Scary Soiree

A couple of weeks ago, the Disney Parks Blog posted a sweepstakes for readers to try to win a spot in their next meet-up at Walt Disney World. It would take place at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party on September 14th and include tickets to the new Villains’ Sinister Soiree hard ticket even within the party. I caught the window of the sweepstakes just in time and threw my name into the hat and surprising won a spot! I was thrilled because I probably wasn’t going to make it to the party this year otherwise, plus I was able to take my mom to her very first Halloween party!

The following is my recap of the event with a little review of the special ticket event. Also, check out the Disney Parks Blog recap with much better pictures!

CheckIn

The evening began at 4:00 PM when we were able to check in and receive our party credentials. After that, unlike previous meet-ups I have attended, we were pretty much free to enjoy the party as we wished. At least until 11:45, which was the assigned dessert party time for all meet-up attendees. The Villains’ Sinister Soiree includes a dessert party in Cinderella’s castle and there are two seatings per night. Ours was the later seating.

Credentials!
Credentials!

First order of business was to get some dinner before the party started at 7:00pm. Our go-to counter service meal is usually Columbia Harbour House so that’s where we headed. After that, we rode a few rides with little wait.

At 7:30 we were able to enter the reserved viewing section for the first Boo-To-You parade. This section is reserved for anyone who buys tickets for the Villains Soiree and is located in the Hub in front of the castle. If you’ve ever had a Fastpass+ reservation for the Festival of Fantasy parade, it’s that same area.

Once we showed our credentials and got into the area, we were offered to take water bottles from the ice coolers. They were the small, kid-sized bottles, but we were able to take as many as we wanted which was welcome given how humid it was. Then a lovely cast member from New Zealand asked us if we wanted to know what the best spot for the parade was. Of course we said yes, and he led us over to the Liberty Square side of the Hub, right in front of the bridge. This way we could see them coming head-on and then make the turn to go in front of the castle.

Our View
Our View
Jester Goofy behind us
Jester Goofy behind us

The spot was great and my mom loved her first parade experience – especially the Haunted Mansion section! Here are a few of the pictures I took.

IMG_9928 IMG_9929 IMG_9932 IMG_9933 IMG_9934 IMG_9935 IMG_9936 IMG_9937 IMG_9939 IMG_9940

Next, we had to decide if we wanted to stay on the reserved section for the fireworks. I was worried we would be too close to the castle, but we opted to stay since we had plenty of space to move around. We also caught the Villains Mix and Mingle show while we waited. It ended up being fine and we had a great view.

IMG_9951 IMG_9954 IMG_9962

We then had a couple of hours to kill before the dessert part so it was time for trick-or-treating. If I’m not mistaken, there are few more treat stations this year. The party wasn’t crowded at all so the cast members were being very generous with their handouts! At one point we decided to sit in the relative coolness of the Tomorrowland Terrace and rest a bit, Our timing was good because we ended up being able to see a little bit of the second parade as it travelled down Main Street!

IMG_9964
Candy!
IMG_9963
Cadaver Dans!

Soon it was time to head to Cinderella Castle for the main event: the Villains’ takeover. Once we were let into the lobby, the Queen of Hearts and Anastasia and Drizella Tremaine were meeting. If no one went up for a picture, they would heckle the crowd. For example, I was wearing a villains t-shirt that did not include the Queen of Hearts. She was not pleased! I was also wearing Maleficent Mickey ears and Drizella told me about Maleficent being her and Anastasia’s babysitter when they were little and let them have all the candy. Ha!

IMG_9969 IMG_9980

Finally we were let up to the main dining room. We had assigned tables and footmen led us to them. We got a table by the windows! On the table was a personalized menu, an autograph card, a Maleficent cup filled with candy, and a plate of cheeses and meats. We were also given a drink named after Captain Hook named the Captain’s Not-So-Poisoned Potion. It was pretty sweet, but I thought the poisoned apple glow cube was cute.

IMG_9988 IMG_9990 IMG_9983

Around this time, the villains made their grand entrance and presented their themed desserts. They also made their rounds at the tables. This was definitely the highlight. Great interaction with all of the villains! At one point, Lady Tremaine and her daughters performed a musical number for us: a mash-up of Sweet Nightingale and Royals by Lordes. Hilarious! I wish I had a good video of it.

IMG_9998 IMG_0003 IMG_9997 DSC08385 DSC08386 DSC08407 IMG_9993

The desserts themselves were awesome in their presentations and just okay in taste. Nothing really stood out.

IMG_9991

Soon, it was time to leave. Keeping in character, Lady Tremaine basically just kicked us out! We were given parting gifts of posters and a hitchhiking ghost from the Parks Blog (these things do not usually come with the Villains’ Sinister Soiree ticket, but everything else I’ve mentioned does).

IMG_9995
Cute vinylmation

We walked out to a pretty empty Magic Kingdom since the party had been over for almost an hour. I would have enjoyed it a lot more if I didn’t have to get up for work the next day!

IMG_0001 DSC08418

I had a really fun time at this meet-up. So grateful to the Disney Parks Blog for hosting us, with the help of some pretty cool villains.. I know the big question is whether or not the Villains’ Sinister Soiree ticket is worth the extra cost on top of a party ticket. Honestly, it probably depends on what you want out of it. For me, it wouldn’t be. The reserved spots for the parade and fireworks are really worth much, especially at a party that isn’t very crowded. The party in the castle is a lot of fun, and being in the castle is special and the atmosphere with the villains is awesome, but for me it wouldn’t be worth the $99 extra. And if I were buying a ticket, I would definitely want the later seating so I could still enjoy most of the party. If you really want to spend some quality time with these villains though, it might be worth it for you.

Have you been to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party? Would you or have you attended the Villains’ Sinister Soiree? Who is your favorite villain?

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Holocaust Memorial Resource And Education Center Of Florida Hosts Civil Rights Series

Holocaust Memorial Resource And Education Center Of Florida

Holocaust Memorial Resource And Education Center Of Florida: Looking Back and Moving Forward with Central Florida Civil Rights

Collaboration and education were instrumental in moving forward early Civil Rights efforts, which is why The Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Florida has brought together institutions and individuals throughout Central Florida to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the Civil Rights Act and join in examining the impact of this landmark legislation.

Through a series of exhibits, films, drama and community presentations throughout Central Florida, the reflect on the progress that has been made with civil rights, as well as encourage important conversations about issues that remain to be addressed in hopes to move forward and challenge bigotry and intolerance in all of its forms.

At the center of this initiative, The Holocaust Center will host a moving exhibit, Hateful Things from the Jim Crow Museum at Ferris State College, which displays nearly 150 years of anti-black/racist material, and will send its own Civil Rights exhibit, Embracing the Dream, which celebrates local heroes who were part of ending segregation, on a Central Florida tour. Several featured presentations are listed below and a detailed calendar of all programs can be found by visiting, www.centralfloridacivilrights.org.

Holocaust Memorial Resource And Education Center Of Florida Civil Rights Banner

  • October 19, 2014: Last White Knight – film and filmmaker talk-back

Admission – $10

Orlando Museum of Art, 2416 N. Mills Avenue, Orlando

  • October 20, 2014: Prom Night in Mississippi – film and discussion

University of Central Florida

Student Union – Cape Florida Room, #316

  • October 26, 2014: Best of Enemies – live drama and one-night fundraising event

Fundraising event – $100

(Best of Enemies run dates are October 15 – November 16, 2014)

Call for show prices – 407.447.1700

Orlando Shakespeare Theater – 812 E. Rollins Street, Orlando

  • November 6, 2014: Privilege and Progress – Forum with guest speaker, former skinhead, Angela King

Admission – Free

The Holocaust Center, 841 N. Maitland Avenue, Maitland

  • November 12, 2014: Panel discussion on Marginalized Communities

Admission – Free

The Holocaust Center, 841 N. Maitland Avenue, Maitland

Visit www.centralfloridacivilrights.org for current details regarding events sponsored by the Holocaust Center and its regional partners. This new comprehensive website is created and managed by the Holocaust Center.

The Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Florida is a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating anti-Semitism, racism and prejudice with the ultimate goal of developing a moral and just community through its extensive outreach of educational and cultural programs. Using the lessons of the Holocaust as a tool, the Center teaches the principles of good citizenship to thousands of people of all ages, religions and backgrounds each year.

Located at 851 N. Maitland Avenue, The Holocaust Center is one of the oldest facilities of its kind in the nation. It houses permanent and temporary exhibit space, archives and a research library. It is a supported by tax-exempt donations and is open to the public free of charge.

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Inside Out Teaser Trailer

Disney Pixar Inside Out Logo

Disney•Pixar Inside Out Academy Award-winning director Pete Docter (“Monsters, Inc.,” “Up”) has taken audiences to unique and imaginative places, and in Disney•Pixar’s original movie Inside Out, he will take us to the most extraordinary location of all—inside the mind.

 Disney Pixar Inside Out Cast

Growing up can be a bumpy road, and it’s no exception for Riley, who is uprooted from her Midwest life when her father starts a new job in San Francisco. Like all of us, Riley is guided by her emotions – Joy (Amy Poehler), Fear (Bill Hader), Anger (Lewis Black), Disgust (Mindy Kaling) and Sadness (Phyllis Smith). The emotions live in Headquarters, the control center inside Riley’s mind, where they help advise her through everyday life. As Riley and her emotions struggle to adjust to a new life in San Francisco, turmoil ensues in Headquarters. Although Joy, Riley’s main and most important emotion, tries to keep things positive, the emotions conflict on how best to navigate a new city, house and school.

 httpv://youtu.be/1t0A_tZGrYw

Som Disney•Pixar Fun Facts:

  • Director Pete Docter is the Academy Award®-winning director of “Up.” He made his directorial debut with Disney•Pixar‘s smash hit “Monsters, Inc.,” which was nominated for an Academy Award for best animated feature film. Along with John Lasseter and Andrew Stanton, Docter developed the story and characters for “Toy Story,” Pixar‘s first full-length feature film, for which he also served as supervising animator. He served as a storyboard artist on “A Bug’s Life” and wrote the initial story treatment for “Toy Story 2.” As one of Pixar Animation Studios’ key creative contributors, Docter garnered an Academy Award nomination for his original story credit on Disney•Pixar’s Golden Globe®- and Oscar®-winning “WALL•E.”
  • Jonas Rivera produced the Academy Award®-winning “Up,” for which he was nominated for best picture. Prior to “Up,” he had worked on nearly every Pixar film since joining Pixar Animation Studios in 1994, beginning with “Toy Story” for which he served as production office assistant. His subsequent credits include “A Bug’s Life” (as art department coordinator), “Toy Story 2” (as a marketing and creative resources coordinator), “Monsters, Inc.” (as art department manager) and the Golden Globe®-winning “Cars” (as production manager).

Make sure you keep up with Disney•Pixar Inside Out on Facebook,Twitter, and Instagram for even more news and fun.

Inside Out Teaser Trailer Poster

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex GeoTour Scavenger Hunt

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex World Space Week Logo

Celebrate World Space Week with Kennedy Space Center GeoTour Scavenger Hunt

 

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will celebrate World Space Week 2014 and its theme of “Space: Guiding Your Way” with the Kennedy Space Center GeoTour that will take participants on a scavenger hunt with prizes throughout the state of Florida.

The Kennedy Space Center GeoTour kicks off Oct. 6 as part of World Space Week (WSW), which is observed annually Oct. 4-11. WSW is an international celebration of science and technology supported by the United Nations General Assembly.

In honor of this year’s WSW theme, the Visitor Complex and Groundspeak, Inc., the company that created Geocaching.com, are partnering to bring guests the Kennedy Space Center GeoTour. The interactive experience allows guests to use the free Geocaching application and the Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates of Central Florida with their very own geo-trackable marble.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Geocaching Logo

Ten different cache locations throughout Florida house a specific password. Cache locations can be found through www.Geocaching.com/adventures/geotours/kennedy-space-center going live Oct. 6. Users may download a passport from www.kennedyspacecenter.com/events/2014/october/geocache.aspx. Users then present their passport to The Will-Call Window at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to receive their trackable item and special admission offers.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Celebrates One-Year Anniversary of Space ShuttleAtlantis

Geocachers who bring their passport to The Will-Call Window will receive:

  • For a 20 percent completed passport, receive a $5 off admission coupon and a trackable item
  • For a more than 50 percent completed passport, receive a Buy One Get One Free admission and a trackable item
  • For a 100 percent completed passport, receive a Buy One Get One Free admission, a retail item and a trackable item

The Geocaching app is free. Admission or an annual pass is required for entry to the Visitor Complex. The KSCVC GeoTour will continue through 2015.

 Space Shuttle Atlantis Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

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 Apollo/Saturn V Center with an actual Saturn V moon rocket, 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 AtlantisSM 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 noon and 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.

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Brick-or-Treat Begins This Weekend At LEGOLAND Florida

LEGOLAND Florida Brick or Treat 2014

Brick-or-Treat Begins This Weekend at LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Celebrate Halloween at LEGOLAND Florida’s 3rd Annual Brick-or-Treat!

Guests invade LEGOLAND Florida Resort beginning this weekend for the kid-friendly Halloween celebration of Brick-or-Treat presented by Wells Fargo! This spooky event takes place weekends in October, featuring trick-or-treating along the brick-or-treat trail, super brick build activities, the largest LEGO® Jack-O-Lantern in the world, Halloween entertainment and an all-kids costume contest with brick-tastic prizes!

LEGOLAND Florida Brick or Treat 2014
Photo: LEGOLAND Florida

LEGOLAND Florida is hosting its third-annual Brick-or-Treat celebration, running each weekend in October. Activities include:

  • LEGO Ghost Build – Kids can help build an 8’ tall super brick ghost model
  • LEGO Scary Scavenger Hunt in Miniland- Families can venture through Miniland searching for Ghost models to unscramble the secret word. All participants can enter for a chance to win LEGO prizes and tickets to LEGOLAND Florida!
LEGOLAND Florida Brick or Treat 2014
Photo: LEGOLAND Florida
  • Brick-or-Treat Trail- New this year, limited quantities of a special commemorative LEGO brick will be distributed on the Brick-or-Treat Trail! Children can trick-or-treat on the Brick-or-Treat Trail- gathering goodies, delicious treats and other surprises. This kid-sized cul-de-sac trail features several LEGO-themed treat stations and offers a safe, fun and entertaining trick-or-treating experience.
  • Emmet’s ‘Everything is Awesome’ Costume Contest- The LEGO® Movie’s own Emmet will make a special appearance at the Wells Fargo 4D Theater for each contest. LEGOLAND Costume Contest is grouped into the following categories:
  1. 0-4 years
  2. 5-7 years
  3. 8-12 years
  • Meet & Greet with new LEGO Halloween Characters
  • Dance Party at the end of each night
  • Photo opportunities with the largest LEGO pumpkin in the world
LEGOLAND Florida Brick or Treat 2014
Photo: LEGOLAND Florida

LEGOLAND Florida Brick-or-Treat

Where: LEGOLAND Florida | One LEGOLAND Way, Winter Haven, FL, 33884 |

When: LEGOLAND Florida will have extended hours throughout the celebration during weekends in October. Please visit Florida.LEGOLAND.com for exact times.

LEGOLAND Hotel LEGOLAND Florida Resort

LEGOLAND Florida:

LEGOLAND® Florida is a 150-acre interactive theme park with more than 50 rides, shows and attractions, a Water Park and The LEGO® World of Chima presented by Cartoon Network all geared to families with children ages 2 to 12. Recently announced, The LEGOLAND Hotel will open in 2015 featuring 152 highly themed rooms and suites, LEGO décor, interactive play areas, a pool and a restaurant. There are currently five other LEGOLAND Parks in the world – LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad, LEGOLAND Billund in Denmark, LEGOLAND Deutschland near Günzburg, Germany and LEGOLAND Windsor outside of London and LEGOLAND Malaysia —the sixth LEGOLAND Park and first in Asia. The LEGOLAND theme parks are a part of Merlin Entertainments Group, the second largest attractions operator in the world. For the most current information, log on to www.LEGOLAND.com.

 

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram