Shelley, Author at On the Go in MCO

SeaWorld Orlando Penguins Up Close Tour

When I was younger I used to dream about having a penguin that lived in our freezer, so when I had the opportunity to see one up close I jumped that the opportunity!

Earlier this year SeaWorld Orlando opened Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, and now the park is offering the Penguins Up Close Tour where guests can experience what it is like to work and live in this attraction and habitat.

The Penguins Up Close Tour is approximately 45 minute long, and is a walking tour that takes guests behind the scenes at the Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin to see what it takes to keep these beautiful birds happy and healthy.

The tour is led by an Animal Care Specialist who is extremely knowledgeable about the birds and exhibit, and beyond happy to answer any and all of your questions!

It was fascinating to learn about their health care routines, feeding breakouts, and just how much manual labor goes into maintaining the penguin’s habitat.

For me the absolute highlight of the tour is that you get a rare opportunity to interact with and touch a penguin! It was beyond amazing! It also becomes apparent how easily Animal Care Specialists tell them apart, because their personalities shine in this encounter!

Seasonal pricing for the Penguins Up Close Tour starts at $59 ages 10 and up and $39 ages 3-9 plus tax. SeaWorld Orlando Pass Members can also save 10% by booking online or calling 1-888-800-5447!

The Penguin Up Close Tour is offered several times a day, and because of the space in the attraction the groups are quite small which creates a very intimate environment where you really get the chance to experience the offerings instead of jockeying for space.

The Penguins Up Close Tour was absolutely amazing, and having the opportunity to interact with the penguins was a dream come true for me! I cannot recommend this tour highly enough for animal enthusiasts!!!

There are a few things to keep in mind when booking the Penguins Up Close Tour:

It is 30° inside of Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, and while there is some adjusting to the temperature stops included in the tour make sure to wear appropriate clothing. You will be chilly!
There are slick surfaces on the walking tour, so you will want to wear shoes that are okay to get wet and have some tread on them for safety’s sake.
You are allowed to take pictures with your phone and cameras, however you will want to be careful about condensation on your lens.
Participants must check in at the Information & Reservations Counter at least 30 minutes prior to the tour start time.
All guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Small groups will be combined to form a tour group of about 12 guests.
Children under 3 are free but need a tour reservation.
Late arrivals may miss tour components or may not be accommodated due to limited tour availability.
Tour times, prices and components are subject to change and availability.
Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice are non-refundable.
SeaWorld admission is required, but not included.

Wordless Wednesday – Princess Fairytale Hall

Wordless Wednesday

September 18, 2013

This week’s Wordless Wednesday takes us to Princess Fairytale Hall which opens today at Walt Disney World in love Magic Kingdom! We have posted even more pictures from our visit to Princess Fairytale Hall on our Facebook Page!

Seminole Hard Rock Tampa Title Sponsor Gasparilla

Seminole Hard Rock Tampa Renews

As Title Sponsor of Gasparilla Pirate Fest

Gasparilla Treasures Mixer Planned for September 19, International Talk Like a Pirate Day

Seminole Hard Rock Tampa (SHRT) will be the title sponsor of the Gasparilla Pirate Fest for the next three years, it was announced today by SHRT President John Fontana.

To celebrate the momentous occasion, SHRT is throwing a Gasparilla Treasures Mixer on International Talk Like a Pirate Day – Sept. 19 – at the Hard Rock Café from 4-7 p.m. There is no cover charge and drink specials will be offered. Colorful pirates from Ye MysticKrewe of Gasparilla will join in the fun to allow for some great photo opportunities.

“We’re proud to once again be an integral part of such a premier event here in central Florida,” said Fontana, who revealed SHRT’ssponsorship would run through 2016. “We believe this title sponsorship exemplifies our core values of uplifting the community throughout the year and it allows us the ability to bring the fun from our place to Tampa Bay and beyond.”

The 2014 Seminole Hard Rock Gasparilla Pirate Fest is scheduled for Saturday, January 25^thand will feature the historic GasparillaInvasion and Parade of the Pirates presented by Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla, as well as the Gasparilla Pirate Fest Street Festival.

“The Gasparilla Pirate Fest is a very important celebration for the Tampa Bay community and provides a big boost to the economy each year,” added Fontana. “With that said, we want to see it grow even more successful.”

“We’re delighted Seminole Hard Rock has opted to sign a multi-year agreement to sponsor Tampa’s Gasparilla Pirate Fest,” offeredEventFest’s Darrell Stefany. “We look forward to working as a team to help develop ways to expand the Gasparilla celebration, while continuing to make a positive impact on the community.”

About Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tampa recently completed a $75 million expansion, making it the world’s sixth-largest casino, based on gaming positions or number of seats at a table or slot. This ultimate entertainment destination features 118 table games including Blackjack, Mini and Midi-Baccarat, Pai Gow Tiles and Poker, Three Card Poker and Texas Hold ‘em Poker, along with over 5,000 slot machines and a smoke-free poker room with 50 tables offering high stakes action. The luxurious High Limit Table Games Room features 17 tables for blackjack and midi-baccarat and offers higher table limits, a personal cashier and attentive bartenders. For the sixth year in a row, the American Automobile Association (AAA) has awarded this 250-luxury room hotel its prestigious Four Diamond rating. Guests can enjoy a new pool area and restaurants including the Hard Rock Cafe Tampa, part of Hard Rock’s 142 globally recognized rock ‘n’ roll themed restaurants, the award-winning Council Oak Steaks & Seafood Restaurant, and Rise Kitchen & Bakery™, which features freshly baked breads and entrees made with fresh ingredients. The new Asian gaming complex JubaoPalace features 17 table games and an accompanying 15-seat, quick service noodle bar. Valet and more than 5,000 free, self-parking spaces are available. The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa is located off of I-4 at North Orient Road and Hillsborough Avenue, between I-75 and I-275, about 10 minutes east of downtown Tampa. For more information, please call 1-800-937-0010 or visit us online at www.seminolehardrocktampa.com or www.facebook.com/seminolehardrocktampa. Follow us on Twitter atwww.twitter.com/SHRTampa.

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Giveaway!

The 2013 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is here and is fun as ever!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X6l2WlLMum8&feature=share&list=UUxhza5Nkv4ukqKmIFLE9dgA

This special event at the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World takes place in the evenings on selected nights in September and October. For more information, see our post here.

Along with events at the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, there is exclusive Park Merchandise and even a Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom Card and here is your chance to win one!

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party 2013 Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom Card — This is the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2013 Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom Card that we are giving away!!!

To win the 2013 Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party exclusive card all you have to do is subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Make sure you leave a comment below the 2013 Mickey’s Not So Scary Party Highlights video letting us know that you have subscribed and want to be entered into the contest!

We’ll draw a winner using random.org at midnight on October 18, 2013! Good luck and Happy haunts!!!

Make sure you keep up with all our adventures at @onthegoinmco on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest!

Disclaimer: I am giving away my personal 2013 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Card. We didn’t get an extra and no tricks were played to get this treat. Just don’t tell Zoe…

SeaWorld Orlando Returns 75 Sea Turtles

to Waters Offshore Jupiter, Florida

SeaWorld Orlando’s Animal Rescue Team returned 75 sea turtle hatchlings to waters off Florida’s east coast today. Ten green, three hawksbills, 61 loggerheads and one leatherback were transported by the Republic VII to a “weed line” about 14 miles offshore Jupiter, Fla.

A weed line is made up of sargassum sea weed grass and acts as protection and a source of food for the young turtles during the first two years of life.

Three of the 74 hatchlings had been receiving care at SeaWorld Orlando for the past several months. These hawksbill hatchlings were found by beachcombers and had likely been washed on shore due to harsh sea conditions. SeaWorld’s Animal Care Team assisted in providing medical and rehabilitative care, including feeding assistance, antibiotic treatment and radiographs, prior to today’s return.

Other juvenile turtles being returned today:

Nineteen hatchlings – 18 loggerheads and one leatherback – had been receiving care at the Volusia County Marine Science Center. The rare leatherback hatchling was brought to the facility after being found near New Smyrna Beach, Fla., with a severe curvature and inability to reach the sea on its own. The center provided medical care, including fluid injections and feeding assistance, for a few weeks until it was healthy enough to swim properly. Two of the eighteen loggerheads were brought in after being washed back to shore and the rest were newly hatched turtles that never made it back to the water on their own.
Ten green and forty three loggerhead hatchlings had been receiving care at the Loggerhead Marine Life Center. These young turtles never made it to the water after hatching and were recovered by beachcombers near Juno, Fla.

One by one, each turtle was carefully placed in the water near the sargassum sea weed line. Young turtles spend the two years of their life in the weed line. Jellyfish could be seen near the weed line, which are a main source of food for leatherbacks and can be a secondary source of food for other sea turtles as well.

Each turtle’s health was evaluated and all were medically cleared prior to today’s return.

In collaboration with the government and other members of accredited stranding networks, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment operates one of the world’s most respected programs to rescue ill and injured marine animals, with the goal to rehabilitate and return to the waters. SeaWorld animal experts have helped more than 22,000 animals in need – ill, injured, orphaned and abandoned – for more than four decades. So far this year, SeaWorld Orlando has rescued 52 turtles and returned 47, not including today’s return.

All turtle rescue footage produced by SeaWorld under FWS Permit Number MA7701911

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

My Swiss Family Treehouse Story

Growing up Swiss Family Robinson was one of my most favorite movies of all times, and I remember running up these stairs of the Swiss Family Treehouse on my first visit with a spring in my step (I was only 9 at the time)!

Now I still venture up the 116 stairs of the Disneyodendron Eximus, but my spring is more of a jaunt now!

If you haven’t seen the movie, the Swiss Family Treehouse recreates the home the Robinson family built following a shipwreck.

When their ill-fated ship, the Swallow, becomes stranded off the coast of an uninhabited South Seas island after a pirate attack, the Robinson family unites to build a new home inside a huge tree, utilizing wreckage from the ship. But the pirates return, and the Robinson family must band together and evade capture.

httpv://youtu.be/HFzRVpD_Qzk

The Swiss Family Treehouse is a walk-though tour that takes about 15-20 minutes on a somewhat busy day, so if you’re unable to climb the stairs on your own or with the aid of someone within your party, it is recommended that you skip this attraction.

After you cross a bridge that lies at the foot of a large leafy tree, you will find a large wooden wheel gathers water from a stream and carries it up to the various rooms inside the Treehouse. And as you look further up at the 6 story tree covered with over 300,000 leaves, you will find open-air rooms that are full of great details from the movie.

If you are a fan of the movie, you will absolutely appreciate all of the rooms in the Treehouse! There are so many great details that will put a smile on your face!

The Living Room
Mahogany furniture, dishware and an organ mingle alongside the large wheel from the shipwrecked Swallow ship.
The Kitchen and Dining Room
A clamshell sink, a volcanic stone hearth and oven, and a table with benches are just some of the more modern conveniences you’ll see.
The Crow’s Nest
See the living quarters of sons Fritz, Ernst and Francis, complete with hammocks, a ragged chest and strewn clothing.
Study/Library
Home to antique books, a desk, a handmade bamboo chair and a lantern, this is where the Robinsons came to feed their minds and their souls.
Jungle Lookout
Boasting panoramic views from the top of the tree, this perch provided the Robinsons with serenity during their stay on the island.
View at the Top
Those who reach the summit of the treehouse will enjoy 360-degree views of Adventureland and Magic Kingdom park, particularly the river on which the Jungle Cruise boats sail. At over 6 stories high, it’s a spectacular sight to see!

Swiss Family Treehouse is a lot of fun, but it definitely isn’t for the faint of heart or for those looking to have a leisurely visit to the Magic Kingdom.

I really love this attraction, and hope that you enjoyed joining me while I re-visited some of my favorite childhood memories!

NASA Time Capsule at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

NASA Time Capsule Ceremony in Space Shuttle Atlantis at

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

We were extremely luck to attend a ceremony marking the placement of a NASA time capsule inside a wall of Space Shuttle Atlantis will be held at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The capsule, which is filled with a huge assortment of items related to the 30-year Space Shuttle Program, is scheduled to be opened by space enthusiasts in the year 2061.

At the ceremony we got to hear from the Kennedy Space Center Director of the Education and External Relations Directorate Cheryl Hurst and Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana about their person experiences and hopes for the future of exploration.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex — Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana

And Space Exploration Ambassador Patrick Sullivan was inspiring! I wish that I could have been such an great speaker at his age!

The Space Shuttle Program Time Capsule was created to help explain to people in 2061 the significance of the shuttle program by including items that tell the compelling story of what it meant to work at Kennedy Space Center during that 30-year period. All of the time capsule items were showcased at a “We Made History” event in August 2011 and include:

A “Mission Accomplished” bear from the final shuttle mission, STS-135 (Atlantis). A bear was created for each shuttle mission.
A mission patch for every shuttle mission.
A Kennedy Space Center director’s coin. A coin is created for each center director that highlights personal career achievements.

At the “We Made History” event, attendees also nominated individuals to become ambassadors for the time capsule. Those Space Exploration Ambassadors number 426 and are to be present when the time capsule is opened in 2061. One of the ambassadors, Patrick Sullivan, will speak at the time capsule ceremony about both the shuttle program and the future of space exploration.

After the ceremony we took the opportunity to look around the breathtaking Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, which was full of interesting facts and exhibits!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ImSg-zwVhIA&feature=share&list=UUxhza5Nkv4ukqKmIFLE9dgA

We’ll be sharing more of our pictures from our visit to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on our Facebook Page!

About Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex brings to life the epic story of the U.S. space program, offering a full day or more of fun and educational activities, including the Kennedy Space Center Tour featuring the Saturn V Center with an actual Saturn V moon rocket, the new Angry Birds^™ Space Encounter, Shuttle Launch Experience, 3D IMAX^® space films, Astronaut Encounter, Exploration Space: Explorers Wanted and many other interactive exhibits. The new $100 million home for Space Shuttle Atlantis^SM opened June 29, 2013. Admission also includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame^®, featuring historic spacecraft and the world’s largest collection of personal astronaut memorabilia, which opens daily at 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 Commander’s Club Annual Pass is $63 + tax for adults and $53 + tax for children ages 3-11. For more information, call 877-313-2610 or visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.

Amway Center: Trans-Siberian Orchestra Returns

Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) celebrates their first 15 years of touring with an encore and final performance of their multi-platinum rock opera, “The Lost Christmas Eve.” TSO’s 2013 Winter Tour will begin on November 13, playing over 100 shows in 67 cities across North America, presented by Hallmark Channel. TSO returns to Amway Center for two spectacular performances onNovember 30 at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets go on sale September 13 at 10 a.m.

WHAT:
TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA

“The Lost Christmas Eve” Final Performances

WHEN:
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2013 | 3 P.M. & 8 P.M.

WHERE:
AMWAY CENTER | ORLANDO, FLORIDA

ON SALE:
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2013 | 10 A.M.

TSO, whose phenomena has grown year after year, has played over 1,500 shows for more than 10 million fans in the past 15 years, and quietly became one of the world’s biggest arena-rock acts. The unprecedented fan driven growth is a testament to TSO founder Paul O’Neill’s vision of “Rock Theater,” the perfect amalgamation of Broadway storytelling with the spectacle of rock, delighting audiences of all ages year after year.

During the final tour, audiences will get to experience the modern Charles Dickens-like classic, “The Lost Christmas Eve.” Following the 2012 premiere of this acclaimed rock opera, critics were raving, calling it “…a must see for any music lover,” “…a rock ‘n’ roll holiday celebration worth seeing,” and an “unrivaled spectacle of sight and sound.” “The Lost Christmas Eve” features a diverse soundtrack fusing elements of rock, classical, folk, R&B, and theatrical-styled music, with the story taking you on a journey into the “Capra-esque” world of TSO creator/producer, Paul O’Neill. The critically acclaimed rock opera encompasses a rundown hotel, an old toy store, a blues bar, a Gothic cathedral, and their respective inhabitants all intertwined during a single enchanted Christmas Eve in New York City. “The Lost Christmas Eve”, performed in its entirety for the final time, will feature the hit single “Wizards in Winter,” as well as longtime crowd favorites, “Christmas Nights in Blue” and “Siberian Sleigh Ride.” It will be followed by songs from last year’s EP release from Lava/Republic, “Dreams of Fireflies (On a Christmas Night),” classics from TSO’s debut album, “Christmas Eve & Other Stories” and the rest of the heralded catalogue of rock operas.

httpv://youtu.be/EehOFiA-dxA

While off the road, TSO is constantly stockpiling new projects in their Rock Theater arsenal, including the rock operas “Gutter Ballet and the New York City Blues Express,” “Letters from the Labyrinth” and “Romanov: When Kings Must Whisper,” an epic story set amidst the Bolshevik Revolution.

Since their debut in 1996, TSO has defied the rules of an ever-changing music industry being regarded as a mix of The Who’s “Tommy,” Andrew Lloyd Weber’s musicals, and Pink Floyd’s expansive light show. Year after year, the group has ranked in the Top 10 for both gross revenues and attendance, according to Pollstar magazine. Having played live to over one million fans each year, TSO saw a 15% increase in sales alone in 2012, transforming them into a year round tradition that’s here to stay.

For more information on TSO 2013 tour dates, please visit: www.trans-siberian.com.

Tickets: $30, $38.50, $48.50, $58.50 & $68.50 – Buy tickets at amwaycenter.com, Chase Box Office at Amway Center, Ticketmaster retail locations, charge-by-phone at 800.745.3000 or at Ticketmaster.com. All dates, act(s) and ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling and facility fee charges. For Amway Center box office and ticket information, visit amwaycenter.com (phone purchases are not available through the Amway Center box office). The Amway Center is located at 400 West Church Street and the box office is located on the north side of the Amway Center, near the intersection of Church Street and Hughey Avenue.

Doors Open: Door opening times for the Amway Center vary according to each event. Guests may enter the arena one hour prior to the start time of each event, unless otherwise specifically noted. Guests may check door times in advance by calling 407.440.7900.

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

SeaWorld Orlando Halloween Spooktacular

AN OCEAN OF HALLOWEEN FUN AWAITS AT

SEAWORLD ORLANDO’S HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR

Join SeaWorld Orlando every weekend in October for silly, spooky fun at Halloween Spooktacular. During this daytime event, families will be immersed in an underwater “fantasea” filled with trick-or-treating, dancing with sea fairies and pumpkin fish and sea-themed arts and crafts.

SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular takes place weekends in October: 5-6, 12-13, 19-20 and 26-27, from 12 to 8 p.m., leaving the littlest of trick-or-treaters wide-eyed for all of the fun-filled activities. Halloween Spooktacular is included with park admission.

Spooktacular Highlights Include:

NEW this year: Spooktacular Dance Party

Princess Penelope and her undersea friends invite guests to join the Spooktacular Dance Party, where children can dance along to a Spooktacular mix of line-dancing favorites as clouds of bubbles fill the evening air. The party will kick off at the front of the park every event night an hour before SeaWorld’s park closing time.

Waves of Trick-or-Treat Fun

Offering more than two million pieces of sweet treats, costumed youngsters can trick-or-treat “under the sea.” Each trick-or-treat station features an assortment of ghoulish goodies including Tootsie Roll, Jelly Belly jelly beans, Airheads and other candy favorites.

Penelope’s Party Zone

Located at SeaWorld’s Bayside area, this dynamic underwater environment comes to life each day with a live DJ, a variety of interactive crafts to choose from, countless bubbles floating overhead and colorful pumpkin fish gliding around!

Sweet Treat Decorating

Kids and parents alike can have a “splash” creating their own sweet treats at the cookie decorating station. Kids will be able to decorate and devour their spooky cookie when they purchase a kit that comes equipped with a cookie, frosting and toppings.

Jelly Belly® Bean Art to Come to Life at Spooktacular

Jelly Belly artist in residence, Kristen Cumings, will use more than 10,000 Jelly Belly jelly beans to create a portrait of rockhopper penguins, reflecting SeaWorld’s all-new, Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin. Guests can watch as this handmade jelly bean creation comes together in front of their eyes during the final weekend of Halloween Spooktacular, Oct. 26 and 27. Kids can join in the fun too, with the opportunity to decorate a Halloween Spooktacular mural with a variety of Jelly Belly jelly beans.

Not included with admission to SeaWorld Orlando’s Halloween Spooktacular, but always a really fun time is…

Count von Count’s Spooktacular Breakfast

1-2-3… Dine with me! Don’t walk around on an empty stomach, stay 1 step ahead of hunger! What goes great with your 2 morning eggs? How about infinite hugs from Count von Count, Elmo and his furry friends! Featuring a delicious buffet sprinkled with the hottest characters in town, the Count’s Spooktacular Breakfast is a fun-filled experience sure to delight kids and parents alike. You can “count” on it! Adults $24, Child (2-9) $14.

We’ll be heading to SeaWorld Orlando’s Halloween Spooktacular, and will be bringing you all sorts of great tips, tweets, and pictures!

Make sure to Like SeaWorld Orlando on Facebook or follow on Twitter and Instagram for the latest details about SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular. #SeaWorldSpooktacular

Celebration Kicks Off Fall With Oktoberfest

Celebration Kicks off Seventh Annual Oktoberfest

with Falling Leaves on October 25^th and 26^th

On October 25^th and 26^th, Celebration Town Center transforms before your very eyes as the falling leaves of the season drop on Market Street in the Fall Festival known as Oktoberfest. Listen for the rustling of leaves, relax by the lakeside and rock your troubles away, and enjoy the live music with family and friends in this one-of-a-kind themed extravaganza.

On Friday October 25^thOktoberfest will be celebrated in the old-world German tradition featuring the sounds of Dan Witucki & Heimatland Musikanten. Come join in on the interactive live show featuring everything from yodeling to crowd sing-a-long fun.

Then, come back on October 26^thas Celebration Town Center will celebrate “Rocktoberfest”. Featuring the sounds of The Micah Read Band and Lucy Iris, Celebration Town Center is the place to be to usher in Fall. It’s the coolest family-friendly Oktoberfest in the Southeast, so don’t miss it.

Hop on a hayride, dance to terrific live music, paint a pumpkin, or just stroll and enjoy the crisp fall air and enjoy the great savings at the lakeside promenade.

Leaves fall daily at 7:00, 8:00, and 9:00 PM.

Parking and Admission are FREE!!!

There is something for everyone at this one of a kind Fall Festival presented by Lexin and sponsored in part by San Adams, Mona Lisa Suite Hotel, Axis Magazine, The Celebration Town Tavern, and Experience Kissimmee. For more information, visit us at www.celebrationtowncenter.com

Come early, Stay Late, and have fun at Celebration’s 7^th Annual Oktoberfest!!!!

October 25^th Schedule

5:30 PM DJ Tami Begins/Pumpkin Painting Begins

6:10-7:00 PM Dan Witucki & Heimatland Musikanten

7:00 PM Leaves Fall

7:15-8:00 PM Dan Witucki & Heimatland Musikanten

8:00 PM Leaves Fall

8:15-9:00 PM Dan Witucki & Heimatland Musikanten

9:00 PM Leaves Fall

9:15-10:00 PM Dan Witucki & Heimatland Musikanten

10:00 PM Event Ends

October 26^th Schedule

5:00 PM DJ Tami Begins/Pumpkin Painting Begins

5:30-6:15 PM TBA

6:15-7:00 PM Lucy Iris

7:00 PM Leaves Fall

7:15-8:00 PM The Micah Read Band

8:00 PM Leaves Fall

8:15-9:00 PM The Micah Read Band

9:00 PM Leaves Fall

9:15-10:00 PM The Micah Read Band

10:30 PM Event Ends

Wordless Wednesday: Halloween Mickey & Minnie

Wordless Wednesday – September 11, 2013

Halloween is one of my favorite holidays! So when I start to see the Halloween decorations go up at the Magic Kingdom I get really excited! This week’s Wordless Wednesday takes us to the fun windows of the Emporium on Main Street USA! I absolutely adore Minnie and Mickey’s new Halloween outfits, and can’t wait to go to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party on Friday!

WWE RAW At The Amway Center

Finally! WWE Raw has come back to Orlando!!!

WWE Monday Night Raw returns to Orlando for the first time in three years visiting the Amway Center on October 28 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets go on sale September 14 at 10 a.m. Tickets start at $15.

WHAT: WWE MONDAY NIGHT RAW

WHEN: MONDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2013 | 7:30 P.M.

WHERE: AMWAY CENTER | ORLANDO, FLORIDA

ON SALE: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2013 | 10 A.M.

See your favorite WWE Superstars live including:

WWE Champion Randy Orton
Heavyweight Champion Alberto del Rio
WWE COO Triple H
Intercontinental Champion Curtis Axel & Paul Heyman
United States Champion Dean Ambrose of The Shield
Tag Team Champions Seth Rollins & Roman Reigns of The Shield
Daniel Bryan
CM Punk
The Big Show
Mark Henry

Many more of your favorites will be added. Card is subject to change. Visit http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw for more information.

TICKETS: $15, $25, $35, $50 & $95 – Buy tickets at amwaycenter.com, Chase Box Office Amway Center box office, Ticketmaster retail locations, charge-by-phone at 800.745.3000 or at Ticketmaster.com. All dates, act(s) and ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling and facility fee charges. For Amway Center box office and ticket information, visit amwaycenter.com (phone purchases are not available through the Amway Center box office). The Amway Center is located at 400 West Church Street and the box office is located on the north side of the Amway Center, near the intersection of Church Street and Hughey Avenue.

ABOUT AMWAY CENTER

The Orlando Magic served as the developer of the Amway Center, which hosts major national events, concerts and family shows. Opened in the fall of 2010, the facility is owned and operated by the City of Orlando on behalf of the Central Florida community. The Amway Center was designed to reflect the character of the community, meet the goals of the users and build on the legacy of sports and entertainment in Orlando. The building’s exterior features a modern blend of glass and metal materials, along with ever-changing graphics via a monumental wall along one facade. A 180-foot tall tower serves as a beacon amid the downtown skyline. The 875,000 square foot, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certified building features a sustainable, environmentally-friendly design and unmatched technology, including 1,100 digital monitors, the tallest high-definition video board in an NBA venue and multiple premium amenities available to all patrons in the building. Amway Center was recently honored with TheStadiumBusiness Awards’ 2013 Customer Experience Award and named SportsBusiness Journal’s 2012 Sports Facility of the Year. For more information about the Amway Center, visit www.amwaycenter.com.

SeaWorld Orlando Rescues Male Manatee

SeaWorld Orlando Now Caring for

Male Manatee Rescued

Near Daytona Beach, Florida

A male manatee brought to SeaWorld Orlando on Saturday, Aug. 31, by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission continues to recover and receive care for watercraft injuries. SeaWorld veterinarians performed radiographs to see if there were internal injuries to the spine and chest. The manatee was found in the Tomoka River near Daytona Beach, Fla.

Estimated to be approximately 8.75 feet in length and weighing around 680 pounds, the manatee was rescued because he had watercraft injuries and was suffering from a pneumothorax, likely caused by the watercraft injuries. When a manatee has a pneumothorax its body cavity fills with air and it cannot stay submerged.

Today SeaWorld Orlando animal care experts took radiographs of the manatee’s chest cavity and performed a “chest tap” to relieve the animal of built up pressure and air. He also was given antibiotics. The manatee is in guarded condition and will be monitored closely during the next few days.

So far in 2013, SeaWorld has rescued 15 and returned 8 manatees back to their natural habitat. In collaboration with the government and other members of accredited stranding networks, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment operates one of the world’s most respected programs to rescue ill and injured marine animals, with the goal to rehabilitate and return to the ocean. SeaWorld animal experts have helped more than 22,000 animals in need – ill, injured, orphaned and abandoned – for more than four decades.

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

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

Oakley Women’s Apparel Isn’t For Socializing

{Sponsored Post}

While many of us hear the name Oakley and think of only sunglasses, I had the opportunity to visit the Oakley Store at the Florida Mall to take a peek at their Women’s line of running gear.

And I have to say that now when I think of Oakley, I am going to think of how their women’s running gear is awesome!

The first thing that I like about the line of clothing is that it starts at a reasonable price point, while still providing great quality and neat features and details.

I know this may sound silly, but I also am a fan of a thumb cut-out on the cuff of a Flexibility Hoodie! This simple little feature helps keep your hands a little warmer without lugging around gloves.

The Flexibility Hoodie features moisture–wicking fabric delivers dry comfort, and a nearly seamless design reduces chafing during big swings and precision approaches. The seams that do exist are flat and specifically designed to contour to the natural shape of the body for enhanced comfort. With a zip placket and mesh panels at the underarms, this hoodie offers a balance of insulation and breathability.

Hydrolix^™ fabric helps wick moisture away for a comfortable fit
Strategically placed mesh panels for increased ventilation
Engineered, flat seams for natural range of motion
Hood for protection from the elements
Thumbholes at cuffs to help keep hands and wrists warm
Anti–bacterial technology to help fight odor–causing microbes

The other thing that struck me about the Women’s Oakley line of clothing is that they are always finding new technology and techniques to make their gear work the best for you.

The Oakley Race Day Tank was my favorite tank! While being super cute, it also has a lot of great features!

O Hydrolix fabric manages moisture to keep you comfortable on the move
Seamless construction reduces irritations
Anti–bacterial action reduces the effects of odor–causing microbes
Adjustable straps and contoured stretch fabric create a customized, comfortable fit
Built–in bra controls bounce

But my favorite design feature of the Race Day Tank, is that it is designed and constructed to stay put as you work out so your tank doesn’t end up higher than you want it to be.

And while there are still a lot of great sunglasses, both for fashion and for athletics, they have something even more fun!

The Oakley Store at the Florida Mall has a way to customize your own glasses in the store that are ready for you to try and tweak before you buy them.

Oakley also has great bags! They have anything from backpacks to totes to foldable duffle bags that are ideal for travel!

As part of this review I was sent a Factory Lite duffel that has been amazing on my two trips to California! It’s a great size bag that was perfect to use as a way to have a little extra wiggle room in case you bought too much or wanted a little extra room in your luggage.

I really had a blast touring the Oakley Store at the Florida Mall, and I look forward to bringing you more reviews of their products in the future!

Disclaimer: Through a partnership with Oakley, I received a Factory Lite Duffel bag for my time and efforts in creating this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Orlando City 2013 USL PRO Championship Match Preview

Orlando City Faces Charlotte

Saturday In 2013 USL PRO Championship

Orlando City def Riverhounds — Photo by Allison Petro

Lions attempt to capture second postseason title against Eagles Saturday night

Orlando City SC (16-4-6, 54 points, No. 2 seed) hosts the Charlotte Eagles (10-5-11, 41 points, No. 5 seed) in the 2013 USL PRO Championship on Saturday, September 7, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The Lions attempt to capture a second postseason title in franchise history Saturday night, with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m.

“This is the final game, and we know what we have to do,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We will have another great crowd at the Citrus Bowl Saturday night and we want to make them happy.”

Saturday’s opponent, Charlotte, upset the No. 1 seeded Richmond Kickers 2-1 last Saturday night to advance to the Championship.Midfielder Chris Ramirez scored his second goal of the postseason and Nate Thornton notched the final goal for the victory.

“Their front three players will cause different problems than most of the players in the league,” Heath continued. “I wasn’t surprised that Charlotte beat Richmond. We have to control possession and dictate the tempo of the game. I think if we can do that, we can win the game.”

Leading the Charlotte frontline is striker Jorge Herrera, who led the Eagles in scoring in 2013 with 10 goals. Charlotte is coached by Mark Steffens, who’s in his 17^th year with the Eagles.

The Lions have played the Eagles twice in 2013, winning 1-0 in Orlando while ending in a 0-0 draw in Charlotte. The Lions have yet to fall to the Eagles in three years, compiling a 4-0-2 all-time record against the North Carolina side.

Orlando is in the Championship match for the first time since 2011. The Lions topped the Harrisburg City Islanders on penalty kicks two years ago, taking home the USL PRO Championship in the club’s inaugural season.

Tickets for the Championship game are available by calling (855) ORL-CITY. For more information on Saturday’s Championship match, stay tuned to OrlandoCitySoccer.com.