Ten Fun Facts About Raglan Road

Raglan Road Bar Disney Springs Walt Disney World

Ten Fun Facts Celebrate Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant’s 10th Anniversary at Walt Disney World Resort

When it opened 10 years ago at Downtown Disney in Walt Disney World Resort, Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant was the new kid on the block with a culinary reputation to build.  Ten years later, the iconic Irish pub thrives in its original but renamed Disney Springs location at Walt Disney World Resort with a loyal following among locals and travelers from around the world.

Here’s what pub regulars know and first-timers learn: Celebrity Master Chef Kevin Dundon stars in his own popular PBS cooking series; the award-winning Raglan Road Irish Dancers perform daily to the tunes of top Irish bands; much of the restaurant’s interior was built from furnishings shipped directly from Ireland; and you can’t visit the pub without having a rollicking good time.

Raglan Road Bar Disney Springs Walt Disney World

To celebrate its 10th anniversary, Raglan Road shares 10 fun facts that even its most loyal guests may not know:

  • Raglan Road Master Chef Kevin Dundon won Irish Dish of the Year for his Glazed Loin of Bacon with Colcannon Mash, a Raglan Road staple.He has published six cookbooks and has cooked for luminaries like Queen Elizabeth II, President George Bush and Bono.
  • One dish you won’t find at Raglan Road is corned beef and cabbage.Contrary to what many people believe, it’s a New York dish, not an Irish one!
  • The three founders and owners of Raglan Road – Paul Nolan, John Cooke and Kevin Dundon – have commuted a combined total of nearly 2 million miles to and from Ireland to Orlando in the past 10 years.That’s equal to about 78 circumnavigations of Earth at its equator.  Or eight trips to the moon.

Raglan Road Bar Disney Springs Walt Disney World

  • Nolan, Cooke and Dundon each engage in secret (until now) pastimes: Nolan is the pub “tweeter” (@RaglanRoadPub), Cooke is a bass guitar geek, and Dundon might be spotted at the Kentucky Fried Chicken drive-through when he thinks no one is watching.
  • Raglan Road sells more Guinness than any other pub in the United States.Nine Fine Irishmen in Las Vegas, the previous pub owned by Raglan Road’s founders, sells the second greatest amount of Guinness.
  • It takes 250 staff members to keep Raglan Road running daily operations.The pub, with 500 seats inside and on the patio, serves the equivalent of half the number of Americans who travel to Ireland each year.
  • Raglan Road coincidentally opened its doors 10 years ago on the birthday of Patrick Kavanagh, the Irish poet who wrote “On Raglan Road.” The poem became a song by Luke Kelly of The Dubliners and since has been sung by the likes of Sinead O’Conner, Van Morrison and U2.
  • The celebrated Raglan Road Irish Dancers perform on stage daily and also on a platform that is an old Irish church pulpit located in the center of the Grand Dining Room.Cabinet displays in the pub’s Music Room include century-old items from Ireland including a period phonograph and a fiddle.
  • There is a Hidden Mickey that has never, to our knowledge, been discovered.Try finding it in a “grand” location.  And don’t miss the signed portraits of Bono and other celebrities on the pub’s walls.
  • The official Raglan Road cookbook is “I’d Ate the Back Door Buttered, Ma!” which translates to “I’m so hungry I’d eat the back door if it were buttered, Ma!”The book features Dundon’s Raglan Road recipes but also the story behind Raglan Road: “There is a “road” to Raglan Road that crosses several continents and centuries – a journey involving brewers, publicans, singers, statues, gold rushes, a chef, a poet, yeast, several fishermen and an ex-priest.  In short, our story is part of the larger Irish story of misfortune, emigration, hard work, ingenuity and eventual success outside mother Ireland.”

Raglan Road features inventive cuisine by Irish celebrity chef Kevin Dundon, host of the TASTE Award-winning PBS and Create TV cooking show, “Kevin Dundon’s Modern Irish Food.”  The show also won a Silver World Media for “best culinary program” in the 2015 New York Festivals Best TV & Film awards.  The second season of Dundon’s TV series, “Kevin Dundon’s Back to Basics,” premiered nationally March 13 on public television’s Create TV.

Kevin Dundon Raglan Road Bar Disney Springs Walt Disney World
Kevin Dundon

Owned and operated by Irish partners Paul Nolan, John Cooke and celebrity chef Kevin Dundon – famous for his five-star hotel and cookery school in Ireland and his award-winning PBS and Create TV cooking series – Raglan Road features traditional Irish dishes and new creations with a Celtic twist.  The restaurant’s warm interior of aged walnut and mahogany woods from old Irish bars and churches was built in Ireland and shipped to Orlando.  Guests can enjoy live Irish bands and performances by The Raglan Road Dancers nightly and during the Rollicking Raglan Weekend Brunch.  Live music is also scheduled nightly on the pub patio.  Lunch is served 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Dinner 3-11 p.m.; Bar menu 11 p.m.-late; Weekend Brunch 10 a.m.-3 p.m.  Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant is located at Downtown Disney in the Walt Disney World Resort, 1640 E. Buena Vista Dr., Lake Buena Vista, Fla.  Visit www.raglanroad.com or call 407/938-0300.

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The Temperance Movement To Open For The Rolling Stones In Orlando

The Temperance Movement Orlando Citrus Bowl Rolling Stones Orlando Florida Concert 2015
Photo: Ed Mills

Special Guest The Temperance Movement To Open For The Rolling Stones In Orlando

 

The Rolling Stones announced that The Temperance Movement will be the special guest artist opening their show in Orlando on Friday, June 12 at the Orlando Citrus Bowl.  ZIP CODE, the band’s 15-city North American stadium tour, kicks off in San Diego on May 24, and will also be making stops in Columbus, Minneapolis, Arlington, Atlanta, Nashville, Pittsburgh, Milwaukee, Kansas City, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Detroit and Buffalo before wrapping in Quebec on July 15 at Le Festival D’Été de Québec.

For ticketing information please visit www.rollingstones.com.

Featuring front man Phil Campbell on vocals, Nick Fyffe on bass, guitarists Luke Potashnick and Paul Sayer, and drummer Damon WilsonThe Temperance Movement are a band united since their formation in 2011. The blues-drenched, soul-dripping UK five-piece have a multitude of live shows behind them, including previous dates with the Rolling Stones in 2014 in Berlin, Vienna, Zurich and Dusseldorf. “Our band formed on a shared agreement that nobody could ever touch the Rolling Stones. ‘Sticky Fingers’ alone contains some of the greatest rock ‘n’ roll performances of all time. To open up for them is an honour beyond all of our expectations and to watch them still killing it is just pure black magic,” said the band. For more information on The Temperance Movement, please visit www.TheTemperanceMovement.com.

Orlando Citrus Bowl Rolling Stones Orlando Florida Concert 2015 Zip Code Tour Logo

The Rolling Stones ZIP CODE tour will see Mick JaggerKeith RichardsCharlie Watts and Ronnie Wood head back out on the road after their critically-acclaimed 14 ON FIRE tour in Asia, Europe, Australia and New Zealand in 2014. The iconic band will treat their generations of fans to special one-night-only shows, with a set packed full of classic Stones hits such as “Gimme Shelter”, “Paint It Black”, “Jumpin’ Jack Flash”, “Tumbling Dice” and “It’s Only Rock ‘n’ Roll”, as well as special gems from their extraordinary catalog.

Orlando Citrus Bowl Rolling Stones Orlando Florida Concert 2015 Zip Code Tour
Photo: Brian Rasic

The Rolling Stones ZIP CODE will be the first time the rock legends have played North American stadiums since 2005-2007’s “A Bigger Bang Tour.

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TreeHoppers Aerial Zip Line Adventure Park Set to Open in Dade City in August

TreeHoppers
Photo: TreeHoppers on Facebook

TreeHoppers Aerial Zip Line Adventure Park Set to Open in Dade City in August

Indiana-based Owners Invest $2 Million in Aerial Adventure Park

 

TreeHoppers, an aerial/zip line adventure park in Tampa Bay, breaks ground this summer and plans to open to the public in August 2015. Indiana-based White River Zip Lines purchased a 60-acre wooded tract in Dade City on March 2nd property to develop TreeHoppers and another attraction to be named in the coming months.

TreeHoppers will feature dozens of zip lines, rope bridges and aerial climbing elements. The attraction will have eight unique courses and nearly 100 aerial features catering to adults and children ages five and up.

“We are thrilled to offer this new experience to the Tampa Bay area,” says Benjamin Nagengast, CEO at TreeHoppers “Our team carefully and thoughtfully selected Tampa Bay for our newest attraction and we can’t wait to introduce TreeHoppers to the community. There is nothing like it anywhere in Florida.”

The property features several acres of beautiful, hilly forest with sprawling live oak trees that will stretch down to a five-acre lake in the back of the property. TreeHoppers will fully utilize the property, allowing adventurers of all skill levels to traverse through the canopy trees, crossing the picturesque landscape. Climbers will be provided with the latest safety climbing technology and full safety instruction from highly-trained climbing monitors before setting out on the course. The aerial adventure park concept was brought to the United States from Switzerland six years ago after an increase in popularity in Europe.

With an exact August opening date still to be determined, TreeHoppers will be open year-round, 7 days a week and is located at 27839 Saint Joe Road Dade City, FL, only 35 minutes north of Tampa.

For more information, please visit www.treehoppers.com.

TreeHoppers

About TreeHoppers:

TreeHoppers is a new aerial/adventure park which hosts eight unique courses and over 100 aerial elements for adults and children ages five and up. It’s the perfect activity for the entire family. Leisure fun seekers to expert climbers can venture through a variety of zip lines, rope bridges and aerial climbing features. TreeHoppers is an ideal attraction for birthday parties and corporate events. TreeHoppers is located in Dade City, Florida just north of Tampa. For more information, visit www.treehoppers.com.

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Endangered Ring-Tailed Lemurs Born at Busch Gardens Tampa

Busch Gardens Tampa Ring-Tail Lemur
Photo: Busch Gardens Tampa

Endangered Ring-Tailed Lemurs Born at Busch Gardens Tampa

 Busch Gardens Tampa recently welcomed three baby endangered ring-tailed lemurs to the more than 12,000 animals that call the park home. First-time mother Canada gave birth to Squirt on March 19, and twins Schweps and Seagramms were born to Ginger on March 27.

Guests will be able to see the lively baby lemurs in the Edge of Africa area of the park in June as the animal care team continues to introduce them to their new habitat. Check out the Busch Gardens YouTube channel now for a first look!

httpv://youtu.be/j8DibR6yeZc

These births come as a result of recommendations from the Ring-tailed Lemur Species Survival Plan through the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. Ginger and Canada arrived at Busch Gardens from the Duke Lemur Center in 2013. Spike, the sire of all three babies, came to the park from the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo in 2004.

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, ring-tailed lemurs are the most endangered mammal group in the World due to habitat destruction, hunting and the exotic pet trade. The SeaWorld® and Busch Gardens® Conservation Fund contributes to the Duke Lemur Center’s SAVA Conservation Project in Madagascar, where awareness about alternative farming practices and reforestation help restore lemur populations.

Busch Gardens Tampa logo Photo Key Wild Days

Busch Gardens is owned and operated by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment™, a leading theme park and entertainment company that delivers personal, interactive and educational experiences that blend imagination with nature. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment™ also is one of the world’s foremost zoological organizations and a worldwide leader in animal welfare, training, husbandry and veterinary care. The company collectively cares for one of the largest animal collections on the North American continent and has helped lead advances in the care of species in zoological facilities and in the conservation of wild populations.

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Halloween Horror Nights 25: Top 4 Things To Know

 Halloween Horror Nights 25 Logo Universal Orlando Florida Universal Studios Florida

Halloween Horror Nights 25: Top 4 Things To Know

Will you survive?

 

Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 25 will be the biggest, longest and most intense in event history.

httpv://youtu.be/cVVcTuqampU

Here are the top four things you need to know about Halloween Horror Nights 25:

1. The event will feature NINE haunted houses – more than ever in event history.

2. The streets of the event will be filled with MORE SCAREACTORS than ever before.  Guests will encounter twice as many “scareactors” than in previous years, who will terrify guests throughout highly-themed scare zones in the park.

3. Halloween Horror Nights 25 will feature MORE NIGHTS than ever before – running for a record-breaking 30 nights from September 18 to November 1, 2015

4. And there’s just one more thing…

Halloween Horror Nights 25  Jack is Back Universal Orlando Resort Universal Studios Florida

httpv://youtu.be/5vS6vkSl3wA

This fall, guests can visit Universal Orlando’s theme parks by day and become victims of their own horror film by night at Halloween Horror Nights 25. For more information on Halloween Horror Nights 25, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com/Orlando.

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Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Florida Resident Summer Offer

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Florida Residents Save Big Through June 14 at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Save $60 on Regular Admission Tickets with ‘Florida Four-Pack’

 

With the return of the popular Florida Four-Pack special, there is no better time for Florida residents to experience Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The Florida Four-Pack offers a party of four Florida residents the opportunity to experience all the fun and excitement the Visitor Complex offers at the special price of $139 plus tax – a savings of more than $60.

Available now through June 14, 2015, the Florida Resident $139 Four-Pack is available only via a coupon which can be accessed on the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex website.

Guests must present the printed coupon and proof of Florida residency at the Visitor Complex ticket plaza to qualify for the special rate. Smartphones, PDF or soft copy of the coupon will not be accepted. Guests must also provide one of the following: Florida driver’s license, Florida state-issues ID card with a Florida address, or a utility bill with a Florida address and corresponding ID. For more information, call 866-638-5091.

With the Four-Pack special, now is the ideal time to visit Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. There is more to see and do than ever before at the Visitor Complex, including:

Journey to Space” 3D film – The new film showcases NASA’s bold plans for the future, including landing astronauts on Mars and capturing asteroids – painting a clear picture for viewers that “NASA’s next era will be its greatest yet.”  Through extensive interviews with astronauts Chris Ferguson, commander of the final shuttle mission, and Serena Aunon, a new astronaut chosen for future flights, as well as narration by film and television legend Sir Patrick Stewart, the film gives a sweeping overview of NASA’s past space accomplishments, current activities and future plans for missions to Mars.

Orbit Cafe – Orbit Cafe at the Visitor Complex is now using hydroponics to grow fresh lettuce and herbs on site following a recent renovation. The open kitchen layout allows guests to watch chefs as they toss salads using the produce picked from several white hydroponic towers standing side by side. Each tower grows a different kind of lettuce, making a variety of salads available for purchase.

Holidays in Space Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Space Shuttle AtlantisSM – Visitor Complex guests can see the priceless, historic Atlantis spacecraft as only astronauts have seen it before – rotated 43.21 degrees with payload bay doors open and its Canadarm (robotic arm) extended, as if it has just undocked from the International Space Station. But getting nose-to-nose with Atlantis is not all guests can do at the 90,000-square-foot attraction. The immersive experience invites guests to “be the astronaut” with technologically sophisticated multimedia presentations and more than 60 interactive, touch-screen experiences and high-tech simulators that bring to life the people, passion and patriotism of the 30-year Space Shuttle Program.

KSC Bus Tour – The standard bus tour, included with admission, explores the history of the Apollo moon and space shuttle programs, and the future of space exploration, with panoramic views of Kennedy Space Center, the Vehicle Assembly Building’s exterior and a stop at the Apollo/Saturn V Center, where visitors see an authentic 363-foot Saturn V moon rocket and relive the historic Apollo missions that saw man land on the moon. 

Space Shuttle Atlantis Great Balls of Fire Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Great Balls of Fire – This interactive exhibit allows guests to discover the risks that asteroids, comets and meteorites present to our planet. The exhibit explores how we keep track of near-Earth objects while examining the effects of possible impacts. Within the Great Balls of Fire exhibit is Asteroid Encounter, where guests can climb aboard a “spaceship” and blast off to the asteroid belt and Jupiter while compiling data about asteroids and comets. Guests also can explore what would happen if one of these celestial bodies were to hit their hometown, determine Science Fact or Science Fiction of Hollywood movie clips and much more.

Holidays in Space Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
The laser pointed at the ISS just outside of the Space Shuttle Atlantis Exhibit.

Located only 45 minutes from Orlando, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex features many attractions and year-round interactive programs, including meeting real astronauts. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex attractions and activities also include Shuttle Launch Experience, an incredible simulated journey of vertically launching into space and orbiting Earth aboard the space shuttle, Rocket Garden, two IMAX® theaters, Astronaut Encounter, and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame®. The Visitor Complex also is the ideal location for viewing the ongoing schedule of rocket launches from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

For more information, please visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.

Space Shuttle Atlantis Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Fly With an astronaut

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, the new Space Shuttle AtlantisSM, Shuttle Launch Experience®, IMAX® Hubble 3D and Journey to Space films, Astronaut Encounter, Journey to Mars, Rocket Garden and many other interactive exhibits. 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.

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Artegon Marketplace Kicks Off Gay Days on June 2nd

 

Gay Days Flyer Artegon Marketplace 2015
Photo Credit: Artegon Marketplace Orlando

Artegon Marketplace Kicks Off Gay Days Officially on June 2nd

Gay Days Kick-Off Party – Tuesday, June 2, 6:309:30 pm

Artegon Marketplace will radiate with energy and color when it hosts the official Gay Days® 2015 Kick-Off Party on Tuesday, June 2, from 6:309:30 p.m. This year marks the 25th Anniversary of Gay Days®, the largest annual LGBT vacation destination event held anywhere in the world outside of pride celebrations, bringing over 150K visitors to the City of Orlando. Co-hosting the party are Jeweler to the Stars and 2014 National Showgirl at Large Nova Starr and Gay Days Creative Director of Entertainment SteveErics. With portions of proceeds benefitting Hope & Help Center of Central Florida & Orlando Gay Chorus, the party will feature drinks, bites by Uno Pizzeria & Grill, and entertainment inspired by Hope & Help Center of Central Florida’s annual Headdress Ball. City of Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer is scheduled to make an official proclamation opening the week-long events at theme parks and venues around Central Florida. Tickets to the Kick-Off Party are $10 for general admission (cash bar) and $50 for VIP (includes bites and open bar, advance purchase required), and can be purchased at www.gaydays.com.

Artegon Marketplace Orlando

 

About Artegon Marketplace Orlando:

Artegon Marketplace Orlando is a 1.1 million-square-foot shopping attraction and artisan marketplace that has transformed Orlando shopping into a new kind of experience. Located on the north end of International Drive and catering to local residents and visitors, alike, Artegon Marketplace is the area’s destination for one-of-a-kind stores, shops and foods. Unique to the shopping attraction is The Village at Artegon Marketplace, housing 165 artisanal shops and stores where local craftspeople sell and demonstrate their products and services. Guests can also discover the area’s only Bass Pro Shops, Ron Jon Surf Shop, Sheplers Western Wear and Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill, plus climb a ropes course, take in a movie at Cinemark Theaters, and much, much more.  For operating hours, directions and more information, visit Artegon Marketplace Orlando (ArtegonOrlando.com.) Like on Facebook and Follow on Twitter and Instagram #ArtegonMarketplace. The center is owned and operated by Paragon Outlet Partners, LLC, considered one of the most influential and forward-thinking development firms in the nation’s retail real estate industry.

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Dragon Fire Grill Opens June 1 At Busch Gardens Tampa

Busch Gardens Tampa Dragon Fire Grill Sign
Photo: Busch Gardens Tampa

Dragon Fire Grill Opens June 1 At Busch Gardens Tampa

All-New Dining Experience Offers Cuisine Inspired from Around the World

 

The all-new Dragon Fire Grill™ officially opens on June 1, featuring cuisines from around the world. Located in Pantopia™, Dragon Fire Grill features market-style dining, a wide selection of beverages and brand-new entertainment.

Market-Style Dining

Dragon Fire Grill reimagines the traditional culinary experience with market-style dining, featuring Italian, American, Southwestern and Asian cuisines. The menu includes shrimp lo mein, rotisserie chicken, flatbread pizzas, paninis and more. Dragon Fire Grill also adds to its current beer beverage lineup with national and local craft brews and adds a brand-new grab-and-go station featuring Starbucks coffee.   Plus, the Dragon Fire Pub offers a selection of premium cocktails and frozen refreshments.

Treasures of the Mirage

Guests are invited Busch Gardens’ all-new stage show, Treasures of the Mirage. This Arabian-inspired celebration transforms Dragon Fire Grill into a vibrant dance party with belly dancers and cultural music, creating an eclectic atmosphere for the entire family to enjoy.

Tribute Bands

On select dates from June 4 to 22, tribute bands bring guests together for a celebration of classic pop, soft rock and blues at the Dragon Fire Grill. Feel the beat with authentic renditions of ABBA, Billy Joel and the Blues Brothers:

June 4 – 8                            Abbamania, ABBA Tribute

June 11 – 15                       Turnstiles, Billy Joel Tribute

June 18 – 22                       The Official Blues Brothers Revue

Busch Gardens Tampa Dragon Fire Grill
Photo: Busch Gardens Tampa Dragon

Experience Dragon Fire Grill’s savory selections and live entertainment this summer with the Ride, Slide & Dine Ticket for just $99. For a limited time, this flexible deal allows guests to choose two visits and two meals to either Busch Gardens Tampa or Adventure Island. For more information, visit buschgardenstampa.com.

Busch Gardens Tampa logo Photo Key Wild Days

Plus, 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 Tampa Facebook page and follow @buschgardens on Twitter and Instagram.

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2015 Give Kids The World Village Gingerbread Run Medal Revealed

Have you seen the 2015 Give Kids the World Village Gingerbread Run Medal?

For those of you who missed our Gingerbread Run Medal Reveal … here it is!

Give Kids the World Village Gingerbread Run Medal

All runners and virtual runners will receive this one-of-a-kind 2015 Gingerbread Run Medal to commemorate their participation in this awesome event!

New Give Kids the World Village Gingerbread Run Contest!

For every $25 you raise between now and June 2, you will receive one entry for thechance to win a two-night stay at the Clarion Suites Maingate. Conveniently located just outside Walt Disney World, the Clarion Suites Maingate is perfect for a staycation, or to use when you’re in town for the Gingerbread Run. Every additional $25 you raise increases your chance of winning, so kick your fundraising into high gear! Good luck!

Give Kids the World Village Gingerbread Run 2015
Where do I start? Register today to get in on the action! Check out our Tools and Tips page to see helpful fundraising ideas.

Thank you for being a part of our team at Give Kids The World Village, Where Happiness Inspires Hope.

Give Kids the World Village Gingerbread Run

Online donations received between Tuesday, May 19 and Tuesday, June 2, 2015 are eligible for additional entries.

Official contest rules can be found here.Prize was donated to Give Kids The World Village. Drawing will be held at 10am EST on Wednesday, June 3, 2015.

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Universal Orlando Resort Extends Theme Park Ticket Offer For Members Of The Military

Veterans Day Parade at Universal Orlando Universal Studios Florida

Universal Orlando Resort extends Theme Park Ticket offer for Active Duty and Retired Members of the Military 

Active Duty and Retired Military Personnel Can Also Upgrade with a Stay at the All-New

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort with a Discounted Vacation Package 

Universal Orlando Resort has extended its ticket offer exclusively for active duty and retired members of the military with purchase available now through Dec. 4, 2015. Military personnel can purchase a one-day, park-to-park ticket and receive two complimentary days to experience the extraordinary thrills and heart-warming moments that can only be found at Universal Orlando Resort. Plus, they can also upgrade with a 3-night stay at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort with a discounted vacation package.

 Universal Orlando Resort Military Offers

Buy a 1-Day, Park-to-Park

Ticket and Get 2 Days FREE

 

· Active duty and retired members of the military and their families can receive two days FREE with the purchase of a 1-day, park-to-park ticket with valid military identification.

· Admission is valid for up to 14 days from first use

· Tickets are available for purchase until Dec. 4, 2015 and must be redeemed by Dec. 17, 2015

Special Military Vacation

Packages Available  

 

OR UPGRADE AND MAKE IT A VACATION PACKAGE:

· Active duty and retired military personnel can make it a special vacation by adding a stay at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort with a discounted vacation package starting at $299 per adult, tax inclusive with valid military identification.

Package also includes:

– The 1-Day, Park-to-Park Ticket with 2 Days Free ticket offer

– 3-nights stay at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

– Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the theme park opens

– Access to live entertainment at Universal CityWalk

· Special active duty and retired military package rates are also available at Universal Orlando’s additional resort hotels Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel and select Universal Partner Hotels

· Vacation package available for purchase through Nov. 30, 2015 and travel through Dec. 4, 2015

Universal Orlando Resort Military Captain America

These all-new military offers are available with valid identification on participating bases at ITT or Leisure Travel Service Offices. For additional details on these offers, see below or visit www.universalorlando.com/military.

Members of the military and their families and friends will experience the trip of a lifetime at Universal Orlando’s two theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. A world of excitement and adventure awaits with all-new experiences, including the awe-inspiring The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, the blockbuster attraction TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D and Springfield, home of America’s favorite animated family “The Simpsons.”

At Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, guests will be transported back to a time of relaxation and endless family fun in this classic, retro-themed resort. Cabana Bay guests can experience incredible amenities throughout the hotel, including a 10-lane bowling alley, retro arcade, Jack LaLanne Physical Fitness Studio, a zero-entry pool and Universal Orlando’s first-ever lazy river.

Universal Orlando Resort Logo 25th Anniversary

About Universal Orlando Resort
Vacation like you mean it at Universal Orlando Resort – where every heart pounding, jaw-dropping, goose-bumping second counts.  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.  And now, you can step into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

Universal Orlando Resort is home to two incredible theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure; four magnificently themed on-site hotels:  Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and the newest addition, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort; and Universal CityWalk, the one place where the dining and entertainment tastes of every member of the family intersect.  And located just minutes from Universal Orlando Resort is Wet n’ Wild, Orlando’s premier waterpark.

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

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Orlando City SC Wins First Home Game

Orlando City SC Defeats Reigning MLS Champions 4-0 for First Home Win

Orlando Citrus Bowl – Orlando, Florida

Orlando City SC Orlando City Soccer Club Citrus Bowl Orlando MLS
Photo: Orlando City SC

Orlando City SC (3-5-3, 12 points) won its first game at the Orlando Citrus Bowl in commanding fashion before 40,122 fans on Sunday night, defeating the reigning Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup Champions LA Galaxy (3-4-5, 14 points) 4-0.

The win was the largest margin of victory by an expansion team over a defending MLS champion in MLS history, and marked the second highest attended game for the Lions. Orlando City has averaged 37,446 fans per home game this season, a record for the first six stand-alone MLS home games for an expansion team.

Featuring a lineup that included Tally Hall in the starting XI and Martin Paterson in the 18-man roster, Orlando City jumped off to an early lead when Eric Avila headed home Brek Shea’s assist in the 12th minute after fantastic combination from the Lions deep in LA’s half, beginning with Rafael Ramos and Kaká on the right-hand-side.

Avila’s finish was the first time Orlando has led at home all season.

As the first half came to a close, Orlando’s strong attacking play in the final third continued when Kaká skillfully beat his defender before setting up rookie Cyle Larin for his fourth goal of the season, providing the Lions with a 2-0 advantage going into halftime.

Kaká’s man-of-the-match worthy performance carried over into the second half when the playmaker converted from 12 yards away, after being brought down in the box, sending LA goalkeeper Jaime Penedo the wrong way.

Orlando City SC Orlando City Soccer Club Citrus Bowl Orlando MLS
Photo: Orlando City SC

Defensive midfielder Darwin Cerén added the final blow in the 72nd minute, scoring from distance as his shot took a slight deflection on its way to the goal.

“I’m delighted for everybody connected with the Club, especially the supporters who have been incredible,” said head coach Adrian Heath. “I’m really pleased for the players because they’ve been working so hard. Overall, it’s been a pleasing day for everybody, for my staff, and more importantly the supporters. The most important thing for us is to continue to do what is right. We spoke all week about trying to play more aggressively. “

 

Orlando City SC Match Recap

Team                    1    2    Final

Orlando City SC    2    2    4

LA Galaxy              0    0    0

Scoring Summary:

ORL – Eric Avila (Brek Shea) 12′

ORL – Cyle Larin (Kaká) 34′

ORL – Kaká (Penalty) 55′

ORL – Darwin Cerén (Unassisted) 72′

Misconduct Summary:

ORL – Kaká (Yellow Card) 56′

LA – Jaime Penedo (Yellow Card) 59′

LA – Mika Vayrynen (Yellow Card) 65′

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City SC – GK Tally Hall, D Luke Boden, Sean St. Ledger, Seb Hines, Rafael Ramos, M Darwin Cerén, Cristian Higuita (Amobi Okugo 73′), Kaká, Eric Avila, Brek Shea (Martin Paterson 82′), F Cyle Larin (Carlos Rivas 77′)

LA Galaxy – GK Jaime Penedo, D Baggio Husidic, AJ DelaGarza, Tom Meyer, Leonardo, M Mika Vayrynen (Sebastian Lletget 68′), Ignacio Maganto (Jose Villareal 64′), Juninho, Stefan Ishizaki, F Gyasi Zardes, Bradley Jamieson (Alan Gordon 46′)

Substitutes not used:

ORL – Donovan Ricketts, Tyler Turner, Harrison Heath, Danny Mwanga

LA – Brian Rowe, Omar Gonzalez, Oscar Sorto, Rafael Garcia

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 5:00 p.m. ET

Weather: Clear

Date: May 17, 2015

Attendance: 40,122

Stats

Shots:

ORL: 11

LAG: 10

Corners:

ORL: 8

LAG: 4

Offside:

ORL: 2

LAG: 0

Fouls:

ORL: 9

LAG: 10

Saves:

ORL: 1

LAG: 3

Orlando City SC Orlando City Soccer Club Citrus Bowl Orlando MLS
Photo: Orlando City SC

The Lions’ next match will take place against the San Jose Earthquakes on Sunday, May 24, at Levis Stadium. Kick-off is set for7:00 p.m. ET.

Orlando City will return to the Orlando Citrus Bowl on Saturday, May 30, for a match-up against Eastern Conference foes – Columbus Crew SC. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET.

To purchase group or individual tickets, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.

Also, follow the latest Orlando City news and updates via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

Orlando City SC Orlando City Soccer Club

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

One of the leading teams in Major League Soccer (MLS), and the only MLS team in Florida, Orlando City Soccer Club has developed a rich history and passionate following in its short existence since starting in the USL in 2011.  The Lions’ first team set the U.S. record for best start of any professional soccer club in its first 100 USL matches (66-12-22). During that time, the Lions won three regular season titles and two postseason championships.

In MLS, the team draws an average of over 37,400 fans per home game – including 62,500 for its home opener – a record for an expansion team in its first six stand-alone home games. In addition, the team is currently near the top of the league in social media followers. Orlando City has not only captured the passion of soccer fans in the City Beautiful, it continues to build its brand overseas as its matches are broadcast in 100 countries and in 30 languages.

Outside of the first squad, OCSC also has a youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U-23 team that participates in the PDL. Lastly, the Orlando City Foundation is active in the community year round, promoting health and wellness in children throughout the region, and raising funds for and volunteering time for various local organizations.

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Orlando City SC Launches Commemorative Posters

Orlando City SC Launches Commemorative Gameday Posters

Orlando City SC Launches Commemorative Gameday Posters Starting Sunday

Uniquely designed, each poster is available for a donation; Proceeds directly benefit Orlando City Foundation

Beginning with the Lions’ match against the LA Galaxy on Sunday night, Orlando City SC will unveil the Club’s new commemorative gameday posters. Kick-off is scheduled for 5 p.m. against the five-time Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup Champions.

Uniquely designed for each fixture, the posters will be available at the Orlando Citrus Bowl on match-day, as well as the Orlando City front office (618 East South Street, Orlando 32801) for a donation to the Orlando City Foundation. On gameday, the posters will be available at the Orlando City Foundation table in the fan zone on the east side of the stadium, and at the 50/50 seller kiosks. All proceeds will go directly to the Orlando City Foundation.

The inaugural poster was designed by renowned local graphic artist Matt Stone and depicts a Lionaut, merging emblems from Orlando City and LA Galaxy into a single image. The posters features an illustration that is reminiscent of both Orlando City and the Galaxy, while staying true to the colors of each team.

“We’re extremely excited about this new program. It’s a great way for our fans to be able to show their support for the Foundation and to take home something that is sure to become a collector’s item,” said Orlando City Foundation President and Director of Community Relations Kay Rawlins. 

The Orlando City Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization committed to improving the lives of children in our Central Florida community.

To purchase group or individual tickets to Sunday’s match or any future Orlando City game, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.  Also, follow the latest Orlando City news and updates via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

Orlando City SC Orlando City Soccer Club

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

One of the leading teams in Major League Soccer (MLS), and the only MLS team in Florida, Orlando City Soccer Club has developed a rich history and passionate following in its short existence since starting in the USL in 2011.  The Lions’ first team set the U.S. record for best start of any professional soccer club in its first 100 USL matches (66-12-22). During that time, the Lions won three regular season titles and two postseason championships.

In MLS, the team draws an average of over 36,900 fans per home game – including 62,500 for its home opener – a record for an expansion team in its first five home games. In addition, the team is currently near the top of the league in social media followers. Orlando City has not only captured the passion of soccer fans in the City Beautiful, it continues to build its brand overseas as its matches are broadcast in 100 countries and in 30 languages.

Outside of the first squad, OCSC also has a youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U-23 team that participates in the PDL. Lastly, the Orlando City Foundation is active in the community year round, promoting health and wellness in children throughout the region, and raising funds for and volunteering time for various local organizations.

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Artegon Marketplace Hosts Art & Wellness Expo

Artegon Marketplace Art & Wellness Expo 2015

Orlando’s First Art & Wellness Expo Coming to Artegon Marketplace on   May 16, 2015

Creating a Healthier You.

A one day celebration of Orlando’s cultural art and natural health communities.

Orlando’s Art & Wellness Expo hosted by Loft 55 Gallery is set for Saturday, May 16th at Artegon Marketplace. Orlando’s Art & Wellness Expo will provide a platform for guests beginning to transition into a healthier lifestyle and offer options/activities for those who already have. The goal of this event is to restore self power into our community through health based education accompanied by visual stimulation .

Artegon Marketplace Art & Wellness Expo 2015 Flyer Back

Date/Time:

Saturday, May 16th (12:00pm – 7:00pm)

Location:

Artegon Marketplace 5250 International Drive

Orlando, FL 32819

Admission: Free (all ages)

Tickets:

Yoga class tickets are $10.00 available for purchase beginning May 1st Space limit: 25

http://mkt.com/loft55gallery/expo-yoga-tickets

Benefits

Partial proceeds from raffles, ticket sales and the community mural benefit

non-profit organization Get A Board Foundation. The program actively supplies at risk youth with skateboards, skating lessons and art activities. YogART inc. will also benefit from the event to help make yoga and art therapy workshops available to local communities.

What is included in the expo?

This family friendly event will feature over 100 local artisans, wellness vendors, all levels color therapy yoga, informative health speakers, an art therapy tent, demos, live body painting competition, a community mural, raffles/giveaways, and live performances.

Community

The expo will focus on emphasizing the healing capabilities of art and holistic practices for all ages.

The expo will aid local organizations empower the community through creative expression and nutrition based education.

The expo will generate exposure and support to Central Florida’s local artisans and natural health businesses.

Via our Lach Orthodontics Sponsor – On the day of the event all children under the age of 18 will receive a voucher for a free teeth cleaning. All athletes will receive a free custom fitted mouth guard.

Healing

According to the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB), through the practice of art, “Clients – young, old and in-between – are able to explore their feelings, reconcile emotional conflicts, foster self-awareness, manage behavior, develop social skills, improve reality orientation, reduce anxiety and increase

self-esteem.”

Art is an important component of life and is relevant to individuals of all ages. By educating our guests on proper nutrition and creative outlets of expression we restore strength in their overall state of well being.

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DigiTour Coming To Busch Gardens Tampa

DigiTour Busch Gardens Tampa

Social media’s biggest stars come together during DigiTour Tampa, only at Busch Gardens.

On Saturday, May 16 from 6-7:30pm, DigiTour in Tampa brings Vine and YouTube stars like Hayes Grier, Alyssa Shouse and Aaron Carpenter to the stage for thousands of fans. In addition to exciting performances, Busch Gardens will offer food trucks and other dining options on Gwazi Field throughout the event.

DigiTour Presents: United26 Tour at Busch Gardens is included with any Annual Pass, Fun Card or daily admission. For the best view, purchase access to the Priority Section Presented by Coca-Cola and receive access to our priority section plus a voucher for a FREE Coca-Cola product.

DigiTour Busch Gardens Tampa  Logo

Priority Section Presented by Coca-Cola

Get the best view for the DigiTour Presents: United26 Tour from the Priority Section Presented by Coca-Cola®. This standing-room only section puts fans in the middle of this epic performance on Gwazi™ Field and includes a voucher for a FREE Coca-Cola® product at Busch Gardens®.

Cost is $40 per person; limit of 2 Priority Section tickets per purchase while supplies last.

Pass Members – don’t forget to take advantage of your Pass Member discount of $25 (a $15 savings)!

DigiTour at Busch Gardens Tampa Lineup

DigiTour Busch Gardens Tampa Lineup Banner

HAYES GRIER 

AARON CARPENTER

DANIEL SKYE

ALYSSA SHOUSE

ALEC BAILEY

JONAH MARAIS

TEZ MENGESTU

For more information and the latest updates on this site, “Like” the Busch Gardens Facebook page, and follow @buschgardens on Twitter.

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Kennedy Space Center Hosts Fun Summer Day Camps

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex 

All New Camp Kennedy Space Center Celebrates ‘Engineering Our Future’

with Fun Day Camps for Inquisitive Kids

 For a summer camp experience that educates and entertains children ages 8 to 16, Camp Kennedy Space Center day camp provides young people with an inspiring week of fun and enriching activities. The camp, which incorporates STEM learning and NASA-based curriculum, runs weekly beginning June 8 and ending August 7.

Camp Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is all new this year with educational activities to keep children engaged and learning during the summer. This year’s theme is “Engineering Our Future” and focuses on the engineering design process. Campers, or crewmembers, are invited to learn about the importance of engineering in the U.S. Space Program through hands-on challenges. The interactive program, led by Kennedy Space Center educators, encourages growth in science, technology, engineering and math, and strengthens teamwork and communication skills.

Throughout the five day program, campers perform a simulated space shuttle mission where they deploy a satellite or dock their payload to the International Space Station (ISS). They “train like an astronaut” in a Multi-Axis Trainer, similar to what Mercury astronauts used to condition themselves for disorienting situations that may occur in an emergency. Older grade levels have the opportunity to climb the micro-gravity wall, which simulates the effects zero-gravity has on movement and weight.

Camp KSC is designed with age appropriate content, placing campers into teams based on their grade levels. Each team works on their own week-long project surrounding the theme of engineering, such as designing a truss bridge strong enough to support an “eggstronaut,” building a small-scale multipurpose crew vehicle similar to NASA’s Orion capsule, maintaining a hydroponics garden and designing, building and launching rockets.

The various tracks offered during Camp KSC include:

Team Enterprise (2nd and 3rd graders)

Crewmembers in Team Enterprise explore engineering principles important in keeping an astronaut safe during launch and reentry. They will design and build a strong truss bridge to support the weight of their “eggstronaut” and build a spacecraft that can withstand extreme temperatures in order to keep “butternaut” alive during reentry. Others activities include training like an astronaut with fitness activities to test and improve reflexes and strength, creating impact craters and designing, building and testing gliders. The Enterprise track is offered weekly beginning June 8 and ending August 7.

Team Atlantis (4th and 5th graders)

Atlantis crewmembers participate in various team-oriented projects such as creating and maintaining a hydroponic garden to investigate the growth of different seeds and designing, building and testing self-propelled rovers. Crewmembers learn to build multi-purpose crew vehicles, similar to NASA’s Orion capsule, then test its safety features by launching the crew vehicle from a slingshot to the landing zone. Campers also build and launch chemical reaction rockets using baking soda and vinegar, and climb a micro-gravity wall. The Atlantis track is offered weekly beginning June 8 and ending August 7. Availability for this grade level goes quickly.

Team Endeavour (6th and 7th graders)

Endeavour crewmembers create their own rover capable of navigating a rough terrain similar to Mars. Before they explore the terrain, they must build a landing module and design a door that allows the rover to exit the spacecraft. Campers safely land the rover from a height of almost 33 feet and ensure their “eggstronaut” a secure exit to the ground. Campers also build and launch solid fuel rockets using a special kit that guides teams through important engineering steps. Other activities include preserving food using the method of dehydration and vacuum sealing, just like astronauts do for long duration missions to the ISS. The Endeavour track is offered weekly beginning June 8 and ending August 7.

Team Discovery (8th and 9th graders)

Campers on Team Discovery use a high-tech computer program called “RockSim” to design and customize their own 8- to 16-inch rocket. In smaller teams, campers purchase materials and build their rockets while staying within a designated budget. After building the solid fuel rockets, campers launch them to complete specific missions. Campers also perform a space shuttle mission, involving launching the shuttle then docking their payload to the International Space Station. The Discovery track is offered weekly beginning June 8 and ending Aug. 7.

Team Orion (10th and 11th graders)

Team Orion concentrates on the science of astrophysics with a focus on the sun. Campers construct telescopes by using 3D printer technology to fabricate parts. Campers then use the telescope for a study of the sun. Using the knowledge from their study, they design a solar-powered community using photovoltaic cells or solar cells, converting the energy of light into electricity. Campers also train like an astronaut on a Multi-Axis trainer and climb a microgravity wall. The Orion track is only offered during the weeks of June 22-26, July 13-17 and Aug. 3-7.

Robotics Track (6th through 9th graders)

The Robotics Track specializes in the science and engineering behind building and programming robots. Campers work in teams to design their robots using LEGO® Robotics materials. Once built, they navigate their robots through a challenge course and perform a series of tasks. Throughout the week, campers complete a space shuttle mission, train on a Multi-Axis trainer and climb a micro-gravity wall. The Robotics Track is only offered during the weeks of June 8-12, June 15-19, June 29-July 3, July 6-10, July 20-24 and July 27-31.

 

Every track includes a visit to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex where campers will see the real Space Shuttle AtlantisSM; take-off in a simulated shuttle launch on Shuttle Launch Experience®; meet a veteran NASA astronaut to hear how he or she accomplished their dream; and see the brand new 3D film “Journey To Space,” a stunning piece showcasing NASA’s bold plans for the future, including landing astronauts on Mars and capturing asteroids, while recognizing the Space Shuttle Program and its many accomplishments. Campers also receive a camp T-shirt, designed with the “Engineering Our Future” theme for 2015. At the end of the week, all campers attend a graduation ceremony at the Astronaut Encounter Theater in the Visitor Complex.

Camp Kennedy Space Center is located at the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame’s® educational facility, just south of U.S. 1 near the entrance to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Tuition is $295 per week plus tax, paid in advance. For more information or to book a reservation, visit www.kennedyspacecenter.com or call 866-870-8285.

Space Shuttle Atlantis Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Fly With an astronaut

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, the new Space Shuttle AtlantisSM, Shuttle Launch Experience®, IMAX® Hubble 3D and Journey to Space films, Astronaut Encounter, Exploration Space®:  Explorers Wanted, Rocket Garden and many other interactive exhibits. 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.

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