Shelley, Author at On the Go in MCO

Inside Out Teaser Trailer

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.

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.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex GeoTour Scavenger Hunt

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.

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.

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.

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 Atlantis^SM opened June 29, 2013. Admission also includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame^®, featuring historic spacecraft and the world’s largest collection of personal astronaut memorabilia, which opens daily at 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.

Brick-or-Treat Begins This Weekend At LEGOLAND Florida

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!

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:

0-4 years
5-7 years
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

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 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.

Florida’s Space Coast Is Full Of Fall Fun

Florida’s Space Coast brings a wave of ‘cool’ this Fall

-Spooky treats, jazzy tunes, crafty arts and “cool” deals this fall on Florida’s Space Coast-

This fall, Florida’s Space Coast brings a wave of “cool” to families and couples. From jazz concerts, to Halloween themed kid experiences to art festivals and even holiday delights, there’s so much to do on the Space Coast. Starting at just $59 guests can stay on Florida’s Space Coast and experience some beloved fall and holiday happenings.

Fall Florida’s Space Coast Favorites For All:

o Jazzoo at the Brevard Zoo – November 8 at 7:00 p.m. – Guests will relish in an unforgettable night featuring five live bands, extraordinary food and cocktails from more than 25 of Brevard County’s best restaurants and caterers for just $75. Starting October 20, tickets are $85. Jazzoo will feature the acclaimed jazz recording artist Jackiem Joyner, plus bands representing country, surf rock, top hits and classics.

o Melbourne Air & Space Show – October 4 and 5 – Families can soar with amazement during this air and space show at the Melbourne International Airport for a one-of-a-kind experience featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and an all-star line-up of some of the nation’s top civilian acts. Advanced adult tickets are $15 and $10 for children ages 6 through 12. Tickets at the door are $20 for adults and $15 for children.

Observatory Art & Algorithms Florida's Space Coast — Observatory – Art & Algorithms

o Art & Algorithms – October 3 through 12 – Art gurus can’t miss this 10-day digital arts festival. Held in a host of venues in downtown Titusville, guests will experience an international short films festival, digital art galleries, celebrity artists, animations and hands-on entertainment. Plus see the awe-striking digital projection on the side of a building transforming it before guests’ eyes. A 10-day pass is $25 and single day tickets are $10. Children 12 and under are free.

o Brevard Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo – Specific Dates in October – Kids can enjoy an evening of spooks and treats at Boo at the Zoo with a variety of fun Halloween activities, including creepy crafts, trick-or-treating, a spooky, but not too scary Boo Choo train, costume parade, a live DJ and a Haunted Trail recommended for children 10 and older. Plus come face-to-face with meerkats, rhinos, and giraffes. Boo at the Zoo runs October 10-12, 17-19 and 24-26from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Prices range from $8 to $14 a ticket depending on the day of admission.

o Bill Cosby – November 21 – Don’t miss America’s dad and three-time Emmy winner, Bill Cosby performing at the Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, November 21. Tickets are on sale now ranging from $39.50 to $69.50.

o Space Coast Art Festival – November 28 through 30 – This Thanksgiving weekend, families can gather at The Cove at Port Canaveral for the 51^stAnnual Space Coast Art Festival where hundreds of artists will showcase their artwork. Families can enjoy hands-on-activities, art, food, music and a 5k Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning.

Sneak Peek of Florida’s Space Coast Holiday Delights:

o Holidays in Space – The holidays are out of this world at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex during Holidays in Space beginning November 28. The Visitor Complex is adorned with a stunning array of holiday decorations. The International Space Station mural is swathed in holiday candlelight. Wreaths, garlands, lights, ribbons and bows throughout the Visitor Complex add to the holiday festival atmosphere. Holidays in Space is included with admission to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

o Brevard Zoo’s Holiday Happenings – Families can join the celebration at Brevard Zoo’s Holiday Happenings all December long with fun activities for kids and families. Plus, don’t miss the chance to see some of the Zoo’s favorite furry and feathered friends receive some special holiday treats on December 20 through 23.

o Holiday Nights & Candlelight Shopping – Shoppers will delight during Holiday Nights & Candlelight Shopping in downtown Melbourne. Strolling past carolers, shops decked with window candles and festive décor, shoppers will find all kinds of holiday gifts and goodies every night during the holiday season.

o Christmas Boat Parades – The holidays wouldn’t be the same on Florida’s Space Coast without the famous Christmas Boat Parades where boats glisten over the dazzling water ways of the Space Coast. Christmas Boat Parades are held at Port Canaveral, Cocoa Beach, Melbourne and Merritt Island.

Florida’s Space Coast includes Cocoa Beach, Melbourne, Palm Bay and Titusville and is only 35 miles east of Orlando – making it Orlando’s closest beaches and a perfect destination to celebrate with family this fall and holiday season. To discover more, visit www.VisitSpaceCoast.com.

About Florida’s Space Coast

Located 35 miles (56 km) east of Orlando, Florida’s Space Coast is home to Orlando’s closest beaches. Encompassing Cocoa Beach, Melbourne Beach, Palm Bay and Titusville, this family-friendly destination offers more than 10,000 guest rooms, and is an ideal, value getaway. Guests will discover 72 miles (110 km) of beaches, the longest stretch in the state and more than 250 square miles of wildlife refuge. It is home to one of the nation’s busiest cruise ports; is the nation’s East Coast surfing capital and the location of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, where all 135 shuttle missions launched and unmanned rockets continue to launch. The Space Coast is home to Space Shuttle Atlantis and is one of only four destinations nationwide where visitors can view an orbiter. For more information, contact the Space Coast Office of Tourism at (877) 572-3224 or visit www.visitspacecoast.com. Visit www.spacecoastlaunches.com to learn about upcoming rocket launches. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/visitspacecoast. Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/flaspacecoast.

Wordless Wednesday – Out On Safari

Wordless Wednesday – October 1, 2014

Big Hero 6 Releases Second Trailer

Big Hero 6, the 54th Animated Feature Film from Walt Disney Animation Stuidos, is coming to theaters on November 7th, and I get more and more excited for with every new still and clip that is released!

The new Big Hero 6 Trailer really gives us a look at each character, their backstory, and a glimpse at how they fit into the story.

If you don’t want to hug Baymax after this…I don’t think we can be friends!

httpv://youtu.be/8IdMPpKMdcc

From Walt Disney Animation Studios, the team behind “Frozen” and “Wreck-It Ralph,” comes “Big Hero 6,” an action-packed comedy-adventure about the special bond that develops between Baymax (voice of Scott Adsit), a plus-sized inflatable robot, and prodigy Hiro Hamada (voice of Ryan Potter). When a devastating event befalls the city of San Fransokyo and catapults Hiro into the midst of danger, he turns to Baymax and his close friends adrenaline junkie Go Go Tomago (voice of Jamie Chung), neatnik Wasabi (voice of Damon Wayans Jr.), chemistry whiz Honey Lemon (voice of Genesis Rodriguez) and fanboy Fred (voice of T.J. Miller). Determined to uncover the mystery, Hiro transforms his friends into a band of high-tech heroes called “Big Hero 6.”

“BIG HERO 6” Pictured (L-R): Fred, Honey Lemon, Hiro, Baymax, GoGo Tomago, Wasabi. ©2014 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

Inspired by the Marvel comics of the same name, and featuring breathtaking action with all the heart and humor audiences expect from Walt Disney Animation Studios, “Big Hero 6” is directed by Don Hall (“Winnie the Pooh”) and Chris Williams (“Bolt”), and produced by Roy Conli (“Tangled”). The film hits theaters in 3D on November 7, 2014.

“BIG HERO 6” Pictured (L-R): Hiro & Baymax. ©2014 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

From Walt Disney Animation Studios (“Frozen,” “Wreck-It Ralph”) comes “Big Hero 6,” an action-packed comedy-adventure about the special bond that develops between plus-sized inflatable robot Baymax (voice of Scott Adsit), and prodigy Hiro Hamada (voice of Ryan Potter), who team up with a group of friends to form a band of high-tech heroes.

To keep up with the latest Big Hero 6 News and Information, make sure that you:

Like BIG HERO 6 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DisneyBigHero6

Follow Walt Disney Animation Studios on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/DisneyAnimation

Follow Walt Disney Animation Studios on Tumblr: http://disneyanimation.tumblr.com

Visit the Website: http://www.disney.com/BigHero6

BIG HERO 6 opens in theaters everywhere on November 7th!

Barktoberfest At Lake Eola Park Tomorrow

The fourth annual Barktoberfest is a rescue appreciation event to celebrate the partnership between Orange County Animal Services and the rescue community is tomorrow at Lake Eola Park (on the south east grassy area) in Downtown Orlando from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm.

For this event Orange County Animal Services works with approximately 70 rescue partners that aid in the recovery and adoption of many homeless animals.

Barktoberfest will have many of these rescued pets available for adoption, and along with adoptable animals there will also be delicious food trucks, pet microchipping, vendors, raffles and more!

Lambs Eat Ivy Salon‘s SHAMPOOCH event will be taking place just steps from Lake Eola, along Washington Street. SHAMPOOCH invites people to bring their owned pets for a day of dog washing fun with proceeds benefitting a local pet rescue group.

Free microchipping will be conducted by Animal Services from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Low-cost rabies vaccinations will be offered by the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando for $5 between 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Find out more at www.ocfl.net/barktoberfest

The following food trucks will be attending:
Kona Dog
Fork In The Road Truck
SwedeDISH Food Truck
Monsta Lobsta
Sweet City Gelato and Gourmet Desserts
The Yum Yum Cupcake Truck
Louie’s Bistro
Tastebuds-Catering Food Truck

The following rescue groups will be attending:
A Cause 4 Paws
A Forever Home Animal Rescue
Animal Advocates FL, Inc
Big Dog Ranch Rescue
Boston Terrier Rescue of East TN – FL Division
Broward Friends of Shelter Animals CFL
Cats Are My Love
Central Florida Pug Rescue
Dream Catcher German Shepherd Rescue
Florida Boxer Rescue
Furever Bully Love Rescue, Inc.
Furever Friendz, Inc.
Labrador Retriever Rescue of FL
Me and My Shadow Dog Rescue
Orlando Bully Rescue
Paradise for Pets Rescue
Passion 4 Pits Rescue
Phoenix Rising Animal Rescue
Poodle and Pooch Rescue
Pug Rescue of Florida
Ruff Times Rescue, Inc.
Sniffing Snouts Pitbull Rescue
The Pixel Fund
VIP Rescue

Universal Orlando Resort Announces Special Offer For Members of the Military

Universal Orlando Resort Announces New Theme Park Ticket Offer For Active 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 revealed an all-new offer exclusively for active duty and retired members of the military. Military personnel can now 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-nights stay at the brand-new Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort with a discounted vacation package.

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO’S ALL-NEW 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

Admission is valid for up to 14 days from first use
Tickets are available for pick up until November 30, 2014 and must be redeemed

by December 14, 2014

Special Military Vacation

Packages at Universal’s

Cabana Bay Beach Resort

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 $269 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 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

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 visitwww.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.

About Universal Orlando Resort
Vacation like you mean it at Universal Orlando Resort – where every heart pounding, jaw-dropping, goose-bumping second counts. It is the only place where you can turn spending time with your family into spending time as a family. Together, you can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, become a Minion in the hilarious and heartwarming Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, and join Optimus Prime in the fight to save mankind on the new mega-attraction, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D. 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 – a unique dining and entertainment complex featuring one-of-a-kind restaurants, shops and nightclubs. 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.

Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic Celebrates Fifth Year

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic returns for fifth year with new additions

40 food/wine stations, @ChefToddEnglish, beer garden & live music headline the Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic culinary event

www.swandolphinfoodandwineclassic.com

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic returns for the fifth year to the Epcot Resort Area hotel October 31 – November 1, featuring more than 40 food and wine stations; 10 food and wine seminars and the opportunity to meet the masters behind the culinary magic.

Amidst a backdrop of live entertainment, celebratory surprises and even some spooky fun on Halloween night, guests will enjoy numerous opportunities to sip and savor all weekend as they stroll along the hotel’s causeway.

The two-night event offers an enticing array of culinary options from the hotel’s award-winning signature restaurants: Il Mulino New York Trattoria, Shula’s Steak House and Todd English’s bluezoo, as well as wine and spirits sampling from around the globe.

The food selections are as innovative as they are enticing, ranging from Italian arancini, marrying Carnaroli rice, Osso Buco and spicy tomato sauce, and the Asian-inspired grilled scallops with puffed rice, edamame and ponzu jelly; to barbeque handcrafted bacon, accented with sweet potato puree and caramelized onions. And, the hotel’s World Champion Pastry Chef, Laurent Branlard, provides intrigue on the sweeter side with finishing touches like a chocolate crunch Napoleon with hazelnut daquoise and chocolate whipped cream, and a lemon peel mousse dome with blueberry cream and lemon angel food cake at its center.

“We’re excited about the fifth annual Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic,” said the hotel’s Director of Food & Beverage, Tony Porcellini. “This year, we’ll present even more intriguing wine selections from around the globe; showcase our culinary creativity with exciting new dishes; expand on our seminar offerings, and introduce a beer garden! Our goal is to make this event bigger and better each year and have fun doing it!”

New to the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic this year are:

· A beer garden, featuring a variety of local and seasonal brews from around the world, alongside homemade bar snacks made by the hotel’s culinary experts. An upgraded ticket option provides guests access to the beer garden.

· The Cheese Course seminar, which pays homage to fromage with a unique look at the art of wine and cheese pairing.

· The Fine Art of Sushi and Sake seminar, which will teach guests how to identify quality sushi and sake flavor profiles and pair the two.

· A hands-on Caipirinha seminar, where guests will learn both the traditional recipe and try some unique twists to this ever-popular Brazilian cocktail.

· Tequila University, offering an in-depth look at tequila, its different styles, the artisans who make it and the secrets to making the perfect margarita.

Returning seminars include: pasta-making, Italian wines, modern mixology, beer, wine-blending and champagne. All seminars require separate tickets in addition to the causeway tickets, and space is limited.

To add to the event’s appeal, guests can enjoy a meet and greet with celebrity chef Todd English, the namesake of the hotel’s Todd English’s bluezoo restaurant.

Guests can also meet and enjoy world-class desserts from the hotel’s very own executive pastry chef, Laurent Branlard, the world’s only two-time World Champion Pastry Chef. Barbeque fans shouldn’t miss the Cib’s Smoke House station for signature barbeque dishes from the hotel’s executive chef Robert Ciborowski.

With 17 restaurants and lounges, a distinguished culinary and beverage team and unmatched customer service, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel continually receives national recognition for its food and beverage program. The hotel boasts more than 70 certified wine sommeliers and 1,400 wine selections, including organic and rare vintages. The hotel’s restaurants are annual winners of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence including Shula’s Steak House, a three-time recipient of the exclusive Best of Award of Excellence.

Tickets to the Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic are available as part of a hotel package or individually. For more information or to book, please visit www.SwanDolphinFoodandWineClassic.com or call 1-800-227-1500.

Fifth Annual Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic

Info: The Fifth Annual Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel returns October 31 – November 1, showcasing a vast array of food and beverage options along with informative seminars conducted by members of the hotel’s award-winning food and beverage team. Highlighting the event is the appearance of celebrity chef Todd English.

The Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic consists of 10 food and beverage seminars, live entertainment, a new beer garden and more than 40 food and beverage stations, featuring appetizing selections from the hotel’s signature restaurants: Shula’s Steak House, Il Mulino New York Trattoria and Todd English’s bluezoo, as well as wines, beers and cocktails from around the world.

When: Friday, October 31, and Saturday, November 1

5:30–9 p.m. (for seminar schedule, check www.SwanDolphinFoodandWineClassic.com)

Where: Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel Causeway

1500 Epcot Resorts Blvd.

Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830

Ticket Information:

– One and two-night packages, including tickets to the outdoor festival for two and overnight accommodations, are available starting at $315 per night

– Advance purchase event-only tickets are available for $95 per person, including taxes and include unlimited food and beverage samples on the causeway

-Upgraded tickets that include the beer garden are $115 per person, including taxes

– Beverage seminars are $45 per person, per class including taxes

– Pasta making and pairing seminars are $60 per person including taxes

For more information or to book, please visit www.SwanDolphinFoodandWineClassic.com or call 1-800-227-1500

About the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel

In the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort, the award-winning Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel is the gateway to Central Florida’s greatest theme parks and attractions. The hotel is located between Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and nearby Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and Magic Kingdom Park. Guests can discover 17 world-class restaurants and lounges, sophisticated guest rooms with Westin Heavenly Beds and the luxurious Mandara Spa. The hotel features five pools, two health clubs, tennis, nearby golf, complimentary transportation throughout the Walt Disney World Resort, the Extra Magic Hours benefit, where each day, one of the four Walt Disney World Theme Parks is open extra time for guests to enjoy select attractions (Valid Theme Park admission and Resort ID required) and the new FastPass+ service, where guests can reserve up to 3 select theme park experiences up to 60 days in advance of their visit. The hotel can be reached at 800-227-1500, www.swandolphin.com or through Facebook atwww.facebook.com/swananddolphin.

New Alexander And The Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day Clip

A new clip from Disney’s Alexander And The Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day starring Steve Carell and Jennifer Garner is now available.

httpv://youtu.be/c8OHYkVOJVI

Disney’s Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day follows the exploits of 11-year-old Alexander (Ed Oxenbould) as he experiences the most terrible and horrible day of his young life—a day that begins with gum stuck in his hair, followed by one calamity after another. But when Alexander tells his upbeat family about the misadventures of his disastrous day, he finds little sympathy and begins to wonder if bad things only happen to him. He soon learns that he’s not alone when his mom (Jennifer Garner), dad (Steve Carell), brother (Dylan Minnette) and sister (Kerris Dorsey) all find themselves living through their own terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. Anyone who says there is no such thing as a bad day just hasn’t had one. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, directed by Independent Spirit Award-winner Miguel Arteta (“The Good Girl,” “Cedar Rapids,” “Youth in Revolt”) from a screenplay by Rob Lieber, is a 21 Laps Entertainment/Jim Henson Company production. The film hits theaters nationwide Oct. 10, 2014.

In theaters Oct. 10, 2014, Disney’s Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day follows 11-year-old Alexander (Ed Oxenbould) as he experiences the most terrible and horrible day of his young life—and soon learns that he’s not alone when his mom (Jennifer Garner), dad (Steve Carell), brother (Dylan Minnette) and sister (Kerris Dorsey) all find themselves living through their own terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day.

To keep up with the latest news, make sure you Like Alexander And The Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day on Facebook and Twitter using the #VeryBadDay!

Alexander And The Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day opens in theaters October 10, 2014!

Shopping With Character: Minnie Mouse

Shopping at Walt Disney World is always a lot of fun, and a great way to show your #DisneySide is by shopping with character!

I enjoy adding a bit of my favorite character to my everyday outfit or even my beauty routine.

While staying ‘budget friendly’ with gifts and souvenirs can be a challenge, I found some great ideas for under $25!

Since my favorite character is Minnie Mouse, I thought I would start with her!

Shopping With Character: Minnie Mouse

Anytime I can find a kiss-lock coin purse I am over the moon! This embossed silicone coin purse is perfect at $9.95! I like to use them for keeping my earbuds, cord, and a brick organized in my backpack or purse.

When I picked up this embroidered vinyl cosmetic case, and saw that it was only $9.95 I was thrilled. It would be great for keeping items like pencils organized, small necessities in a purse together that end up in a mess in the bottom (I hope that is not just me…), and even as a way to keep things like boarding passes and passports organized for longer trips. This pouch is a great bargain for any use!

Want to add a touch of bling to an outfit? These rhinestone classic three circle Mickey Mouse silhouette bobby pins are awesome. They are super sparkly and useful, and at $19.95 a really playful touch for a fancier outfit.

I adore wearing a bow in my hair, and for $9.95 this fabric bow is fun and durable! I am also a sucker for polka dots, so it is the best of both worlds for me!

If you don’t like to wear bobby pins, these rhinestone and pearl classic three circle Mickey Mouse silhouette head bands are for you. At $16.95 you really can’t go wrong!

You can also find these rhinestone classic three circle Mickey Mouse silhouette hair bands that are $14.95 for two. These are great if you like to wear a band around your wrist.

Beautifully Disney has some amazing brushes, and this Minnie Mouse inspired Kabuki brush is no exception. For $21.95, this high quality brush is a great value.

If you are looking for a utility pouch that is on the larger side, this pie-eyed Minnie Mouse vinyl case would be a good choice at $19.95.

Beautifully Disney has this red and black polka dotted vinyl large cosmetic case with bow and mirror for $24.95. I like these vinyl cosmetic cases, because if a powder or eyeshadow breaks the clean up is easy.

And rounding out my list is the zip ID Mickey and Minnie Mouse Bouncing Bouquet case from Vera Bradley. The Disney Vera Bradley Collection is wildly popular, and even on a small piece like this you can still get a glimpse of a character. This one takes some patience, because if you are set on finding the perfect one for you it could take some time.

I hope that you enjoyed a look at how you can add a touch of your favorite character to your wardrobe on a budget.

What is your favorite character to add as you are shopping with character?

Annual Passholder Appreciation Month At Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando has kicked off Annual Passholder Appreciation Month, providing their passholders with a TON of special benefits during the month of September!

To celebrate Annual Passholder Appreciation Month, Universal Orlando annual passholders will enjoy additional benefits including:

Early Park Admission to experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida, one hour before the theme park opens weekdays throughout September.
Stay at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort starting at just $69 per night. These Passholder-only special rates offer savings of up to $85 per night.
Enjoy Wet ‘n Wild on weekdays from Wednesday, September 3 through Friday, September 26 for just $19.99 per day.
Experience the Blue Man Group for $49 for adults and $29 for children at 4:00 pm every Sunday in September.
Halloween Horror Nights 24 Passholder Nights: September 19, 20, 26 & 27 from 5:15 pm – 6:30 pm. Enjoy early access to Halloween Horror Nights plus exclusive access to three designated haunted houses as well as the first showing of Bill & Ted’s Excellent Halloween Adventure.
Save $6 on a refillable Souvenir Cup. Just ask for the Passholder special at Louie’s Italian Restaurant, Monsters Cafe, Mel’s Drive-in or Richter’s Burger Company.

The Annual Passholder Appreciation Month benefits even extend to Universal CityWalk:

Get a FREE CityWalk PartyPass for one Passholder and a guest throughout September.
AMC Universal Cineplex 20 with IMAX: Save $1.75 each on up to 5 matinee movie tickets.
Bob Marley–A Tribute to Freedom: Buy one adult entrée and get 50% off a second.
Pat O’Brien’s: Buy one adult entrée and get 50% off a second.
Red Coconut Club: Buy one, get one free martinis.
Dippin Dots carts: Receive 25% off at CityWalk locations.

To find out more information about becoming an Annual Passholder at Universal Orlando, you check out all the pass options available here.

Already an Annual Passhoder? You can log in here to enjoy all your benefits!

Oddtoberfest Coming to Ripley’s Orlando Odditorium

Celebrate Oddtoberfest at Ripley’s Orlando Odditorium

Ripley’s Orlando provides free family fun at October 4event

Ripley’s Orlando Odditorium celebrates fall, fun and family with its third annual Oddtoberfest on Saturday, October 4.

This FREE event will feature several family-friendly activities, including:

– Sensei Mike Reeves and his Over the Edge Team displaying their amazing karate skills – 12 pm

– “Trick Ropin’ Trevor” Dreher will wow the crowd with his Wild West Extravaganza – 1 pm

– Gatorland puts on a show featuring a live gator, snakes and reptiles – 2 pm

– Prize wheel featuring free and discount admissions, toys, souvenir books and more

– Food truck

– Face painting

– Bounce house

Trick Ropin’ Trevor will again wow

crowds at Ripley’s Oddtoberfest

Oddtoberfest Details:

The event will be held in the parking lot rain or shine from

12 pm – 3 pm. The Oddtoberfest activities are FREE to the public, but guests who want to tour the Odditorium will be required to purchase tickets (guests will have in and out privileges for the day).

Ripley’s Orlando Odditorium, located at 8201 International Drive, is open from 9 a.m. to midnight 365 days a year. For more information, please visit www.ripleys.com/orlando.

About Ripley Entertainment Inc.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Orlando is part of the Ripley Entertainment Inc. (www.ripleys.com) family of worldwide attractions, the global leader in location-based entertainment. More than 12 million people visit its 90-plus attractions in 9 countries each year. In addition to its 31 Believe It or Not!Odditoriums, the Orlando, Florida-based company has publishing, licensing and broadcast divisions that oversee projects including the syndicated Believe It or Not! television show, best-selling books and the popular syndicated cartoon strip, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, that still runs daily in 42 countries. Ripley Entertainment is a Jim Pattison Company, the third-largest privately held company in Canada.

Into The Woods Releases First Poster

One of my degrees from Virginia Tech is in Theatre Arts, and when Disney Studios Motion Pictures released the first poster for Into the Woods my heart skipped a beat! Meryl Streep as The Witch is perfection!

Opening Christmas Day, Into the Woods has an AMAZING cast and is sure to be a movie you will want to see again and again (says the Theatre geek)!

Don’t know much about Into the Woods? Here is a quick look at the story and movie!

“Into the Woods” is a modern twist on several of the beloved Brothers Grimm fairy tales, intertwining the plots of a few choice stories and exploring the consequences of the characters’ wishes and quests. This humorous and heartfelt musical follows the classic tales of Cinderella (Anna Kendrick), Little Red Riding Hood (Lilla Crawford), Jack and the Beanstalk (Daniel Huttlestone), and Rapunzel (MacKenzie Mauzy)—all tied together by an original story involving a baker and his wife (James Corden & Emily Blunt), their wish to begin a family and their interaction with the witch (Meryl Streep) who has put a curse on them.

Rob Marshall, the acclaimed filmmaker behind the Academy Award®-winning musical “Chicago” and Disney’s “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides,” directs the film, which is based on the Tony®-winning original musical by James Lapine, who also penned the screenplay, and legendary composer Stephen Sondheim, who provides the music and lyrics. Produced by Marshall, John DeLuca, “Wicked” producer Marc Platt and Callum McDougall, “Into the Woods” will be released in theaters Dec. 25, 2014.

Starring Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, James Corden, Anna Kendrick and Chris Pine, “Into the Woods” is a humorous and heartfelt musical that follows the classic tales of Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Rapunzel—all tied together by an original story involving a baker and his wife, their wish to begin a family and their interaction with the witch who has put a curse on them.

Into the Woods Tidbits:

Into the Woods” premiered on Broadway on Nov. 5, 1987, at the Martin Beck Theatre. The production, which ran for 764 performances, won Tony® Awards for best score, best book and best actress in a musical. Among other awards, the musical received five Drama Desk awards, including best musical. “Into the Woods” has been produced around the world, including a 1988 U.S. tour, a 1990 West End production, Broadway and London revivals, in addition to a television production, DVD recording and a 10-year-anniversary concert.
The big-screen adaptation welcomes songs from the stage musical, including “Children Will Listen,” “Giants in the Sky,” “On the Steps of the Palace,” “No One Is Alone” and “Agony,” among others.
The award-winning production team includes Dion Beebe (“Collateral,” “Chicago,” “Nine”), Oscar® winner for the Marshall-helmed “Memoirs of a Geisha,” as director of photography. Dennis Gassner (“Skyfall,” “Quantum of Solace”), who won his own Oscar for “Bugsy,” serves as production designer, and three-time Oscar winner Colleen Atwood (“Memoirs of a Geisha,” “Chicago,” “Alice In Wonderland”) is costume designer.

Make sure you keep up with all the Into the Woods on Social Media!

Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.

Into the Woods is rated PG and opens in theaters everywhere on December 25th!

Epcot International Food and Wine Festival Disney Dooney & Bourke Purses

I have to say that the latest addition to the Disney Dooney & Bourke line of purses, may be my favorite event based pattern yet!

Epcot International Food and Wine Festival Dooney & Bourke Purses — Photo: Disney Parks Blog

The Disney Dooney & Bourke release will have four purses and will feature a special dated ‘2014 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival’ tag.

The Disney Dooney & Bourke purses (prices coming soon) will be:

Wristlet – $98
Crossbody – $268
Tote – $278
Satchel- $268

The black background with the gem toned Chef Mickeys, are perfect for fall! I especially love how the green pops!

The new Epcot International Food and Wine Festival print will be released at the Festival Center in Epcot starting September 29.

The Festival Center is located between the Universe of Energy and Mission: SPACE pavilions in Future World. We will have these items on display in that location when the event kicks off on September 19. This Dooney & Bourke collection will not be available on our Disney Parks online store at this time.

What do you think of the newest Disney Dooney & Bourke pattern? Will you be picking one up at the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival?