Banana Boat Natural Reflect 101 Days of Summer

Since moving to Celebration I have found that we are out and about all of the time, and as a result are always using tons of sunscreen!

 

I was able to attend a 101 Days of Summer Party with other local families, hosted by Melanie & Suzannah, where we learned about Banana Boat’s Natural Reflect Sunscreen Lotion. Using 100% naturally sourced mineral sunscreen, active with Zinc Oxide, deflects UVA and UVB rays — and it is ideal for sensitive and delicate skin, which is perfect for our family since Zoe and I have extremely sensitive skin!!!

 

100% Naturally Sourced Mineral Sunscreen Actives, Zinc Oxide
Oxybenzone and Paraben-Free
Gentle on Sensitive and Delicate Skin
Proven Effective Against Sunburn; Helps Prevent Long-Term Skin Damage
Broad Spectrum UVA and UVB Protection
Water Resistant (80 Minutes)
Recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation
Dermatologist Tested

 

Another really cool thing that Banana Boat is doing as part of their 101 Days of Summer Campaign, is that if you go to their Facebook Page and take a pledge to encourage your kids to spend time outside everyday this summer they will donate a bottle of Natural Reflect Sunscreen to the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp!

Founded in 1988 by Paul Newman, The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp is a community dedicated to providing “a different kind of healing” to children and their families coping with cancer, sickle cell anemia and other serious illnesses. Through summer sessions and family weekend programs at the Camp in Ashford, Connecticut, and year-round outreach to hospitals and clinics throughout the Northeast, the Camp serves more than 20,000 children and family members annually. All services are free of charge.

Thanks again to Melanie and Suzannah for hosting this Banana Boat 101 Days of Summer Party where we got to learn about the Natural Reflect products, play fun games, make cool crafts, and have a great afternoon with friends! Also, please don’t forget to visit their Facebook Page and take the pledge and help the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp!!!!

 

Disclosure: I was compensated for this post and attended a local event where I received product samples, but my opinions are my own.

 

 

 

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Minion Mayhem Premiers at Universal Studios Orlando And You Won’t Want To Miss It!

Fans of the hit movie Despicable Mewill want to run to Universal Studios Orlando to become a minion on Minion Mayhem!

Minion Mayhem is a motion simulator ride which allows you to join Gru, Agnes, Edith, Margo, Dr. Nefario, and of course the minions as they get ready to celebrate a big day! With the voice talent from Despicable Mebringing their characters to life on the ride, Steve Carrel, Miranda Cosgrove, Elsie Fisher, & Dana Gaier to name a few, this is the only opportunity to see these characters until the sequel hits the theaters in 2013!

Universal Orlando’s Creative team worked closely with producer Chris Meledandri, the founder of Illumination Entertainment, to create all-new animation for an all-new “Despicable Me” adventure that places guests right in the center of the action. This brand-new ride combines the humor and memorable characters of Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment’s blockbuster film Despicable Me, with an all-new storyline, incredible new animation and the latest 3-D technology to create a fun and unique theme park experience.

Families are transformed into minions, laugh together as they train to join Gru’s minion army and boogie down during the world’s-first minion-inspired dance party. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem is super fun and a really complete journey into the world of Despicable Me that you aren’t going to want to leave.

Riders must be over 40”to ride the motion simulator, 48” to ride unaccompanied, and there are stationary platforms available for smaller riders or those that prefer not to move. There is also no Express Pass for this attraction.

 

And this is where the spoilers begin…so don’t say I didn’t warn you!!!

 

Ready…Then let’s go!!!

 

Upon entering Gru’s house from the streets of Universal Studios Orlando, the fun begins as you pass the banana trees to enter into the main queue when you watch a 15 minute video that plays continuously on several monitors and prepares you for the ride…How you’ll become a minion.  The video is full of footage from the movie, and includes minion quizzes, and vital information about the various characters you will encounter (Gru, Agnes, Edith, Margo, and Dr. Nefario), and lots and lots and lots and lots of minions.  In this part of the queue you will also find fun posters and vignettes inspired by the movie that entertain you while you wait.

Then you get to enter the main, and most exciting part of the queue…you enter Gru’s house.  As soon as you walk through the door make sure you take a look at everything!  While this is the area where you will pick up your 3D glasses (the glasses are the same as they use at The Amazing Adventures of Spider Man and Star Tours), don’t let that be your main focus.  There are lots of fun details from the movie like the portrait of Dr. Nefario, the piranha over the fireplace, and the special minion entrance just to name a few.  Also, don’t forget to take a look up for a big bang.  In this room you will also be able to view another shorter video preparing you for what you will encounter ahead.

And now it’s time for the transformation to begin. You’ll be able to see what it’s like to be screened and become a minion in the Minionization Prep Room. It is definitely a fun experience! This is also where you find out that Agnes is trying to give Gru a present for the celebration of their adoption anniversary, but Gru is too busy making plans with Dr. Nefario and the minions to pay attention. Take a peek at the transformation video…minus the smell of bananas…

 

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYgOjGJ452Q

 

Once you have been Minionized, you enter the Minion Transformation Pods to watch another pre-pre-pre-pre ride video with instructions and warning for the rides before the lap bars are lowered and you put on your goggles to before you are minionized by Gru’s gun to begin the crazy minion journey!  I have to say that while the motion simulators are extremely smooth, there is a lot of “swinging” movements that can be a little disorienting and there is a lot of violence towards the minions which could be a little scary to younger minions.

At first you are put through various minion obstacles and tasks by the girls, including Edith taunting you with a banana, before you enter into Gru’s workshop by accident. But when you are in the workshop, Agnes loses her present for Gru which leads to a huge chase to recover the gift.

Once you’ve recovered the gift by working together with Gru, Edith, Margo, Agnes, and the minions you enter a HUGE party full of fun rides to celebrate the anniversary of their adoption! While you are enjoying the party, there is a mishap you are unfortunately turned back into humans and are quickly led out of the party and new minions are sent in to replace you.

Upon exiting the ride you get to enter into your own dance party with minions and human minions. Under the shiny disco ball, you’ll definitely catch “Boogie Fever” and get caught up in the fun for a few minutes. The lighting in here is difficult for pictures, but you are going to want to do your best since this is a great opportunity to catch some silly memories!

After the dance party, you’ll exit into the gift shop that is full of minion mementos and SO FLUFFY unicorns!!! The store is themed really well, and is a great way to adjust your eyes to the bright light since you have been in dark spaces for awhile by this point.

While the use of the motion simulator itself isn’t ground breaking, the projections are amazingly clear and the story line is well formed and extremely enjoyable. The dance party is a great way to extend the ride experience into the ‘real world’. It’s a great ride that was thoughtfully created for fans that I would ride again and again…and I have a feeling that is exactly what Zoe is going to make me do after she rides it for the first time!

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Celebrating The Fourth Of July At Walt Disney World

Patriotic fireworks displays, a rock ‘n’ roll concert, traditional outdoor activities, or your favorite characters in Patriotic Costumes, there’s a way for any and everyone in the family to celebrate the Fourth of July at Walt Disney World.

I will apologize now for the utter and total lack of pictures!!! Last year was our first Fourth here, and we stuck close to Celebration for the Fourth of July!!! But this year we are going to fix that since there are soooo many ways to celebrate at Walt Disney World!!!

Magic Kingdom Park – Disney’s Celebrate America! – A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky. This special pyrotechnic show, taking the place of Wishes on both July 3rd AND 4th, will light up the sky above Cindarella’s Castle. These fireworks are AMAZING!!!!! Last year we chose to view them from a different perspective! We had an early dinner at Kona on July 3rd, and then headed out to the Polynesian Beach to enjoy them. It’s important to know that both the Polynesian and Contemporary Resorts strictly enforce entrance to guests staying there or with dining reservations! Also, if you are thinking of watching from the beach you may consider bringing your own beach towel or blanket since towels are strictly for resort guests!

Disney’s Hollywood Studios – What do you get when you mix traditional fireworks with the all-new Rockin’ 4th of July Celebration? A Fourth of July that is a cut above the rest! (Sorry for the bad landscaping pun…) Get your groove on at the Sorcerer Hat, aka BAH, with a DJ starting at 6 p.m. Then at 8:30 and 9:30 p.m. Mulch, Sweat & Shears take Guests on a musical road trip through America. Rock ‘n’ Roll hits from Memphis to Motor City will all lead up to a special fireworks presentation at 9:45 p.m. I am always a fan of Morris and the Boys taking the stage near the BAH and Fireworks in the Studios!!!! My best advice is that if you love the band, make sure you get there super early to get a great spot near the stage. However if you want a good view of both the band and fireworks, I really suggest grabbing a spot towards the center to back of the BAH area between the two lighting towers. This is an amazing spot, because you will really get to take in the spectacle that is the Fourth of July at Hollywood Studios!!! Don’t worry if you are lining up a little late, make sure you head over near the American Idol Experience jumbo screen since they typically will put video of what’s going on up there!

Epcot – Discovery Experiences at American Adventure present a bit of American history and heritage. From 11:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Guests may meet with Benjamin Franklin, Betsy Ross and Disney characters adorned in patriotic dress. An afternoon of live entertainment kicks off at 12:30 p.m. in the America Gardens Theater with the Voices of Liberty 4th of July Concert. This holiday special is a harmonizing partnership of the 8-part a capella Voices of Liberty, Spirit of America Fife and Drum Corps, and Disney characters. In the evening, the Sounds Like Summer Concert Series takes the stage with four performances from Slippery When Wet – The Ultimate Bon Jovi Tribute. The grand finale to these classic beats is The Heartbeat of Freedom, a special tribute in the sky following Illuminations: Reflections of Earth at 10 p.m. We’ll be spending our Fourth of July in Epcot this year, and I am beyond excited to catch all of these great experiences…especially the Voices of Liberty Fourth of July Concert!!!!

It’s also important to note that both Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Downtown Disney will not feature fireworks.

Two resorts that really get into the spirit of celebrating the Fourth of July are Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Lodge! If you are a guest staying at these resorts, you may want to consider joining in the fun while you are there!!!

The schedule for activities at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground on July 3rd is as follows:

  • 10:15-11 a.m.: Patriotic Craft
    Show off your creativity with this fun Independence themed craft. Meet at Pavilion at Meadow Swimming Pool.
  • 11 a.m.-noon: Acorn Toss Dodge ball
    Join us in the field by Meadow Swimming Pool for our fun twist on Dodge ball.
  • 1:15-2 p.m.: What’s in your beach bag?
    Bring your beach bags and get ready for an exciting poolside game!
  • 2-3 p.m.: Giant Board Games
    Oversized games mean twice the fun! At Meadow Swimming Pool.
  • 3-4 p.m.: Pool Party
    Our daily poolside party! Games, dancing, fun and prizes!
  • 4-5 p.m.: Splash Ball
    All the fun of baseball with a soaking twist!
  • 6-9 p.m. Independence Eve Beach Party at Clementine Beach:
  • 6-7 p.m.: Sandcastle Building Contest – You provide the tools and creativity and we’ll provide cool prizes!
  • 7-8 p.m.: Dance Party – Celebrate America’s Birthday by dancing the night away!
  • 8-9 p.m.: BINGO – Free BINGO on the beach!
  • 9 p.m.: Disney Celebrate America! – A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky!
    A special Independence Day fireworks celebration at the Magic Kingdom Park visible from Clementine Beach
  • 7 p.m.: Red Light, Green Light
  • 7:30 p.m.: Campfire Lighting
  • 8 p.m.: Chip and Dale Campfire Sing-a-Long
  • 8:40 p.m. Movie – National Treasure at the Chip and Dale Campfire Sing-a-long

The schedule for activities at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground on July 4th is as follows:

  • 11 a.m.-noon: Red and Blue Noodle Races
    Join us at the Meadow Swimming Pool for fun relay races in the water!
  • 1-2 p.m.: Design your own Kites ($5)
    Create your own cool kite then fly them in the field nearby. Meet at the Bike Barn.
  • 2-3 p.m.: Goofy Bingo
    Can you match the all the Disney characters? Get five in a row for a chance to win fun prizes.
  • 3-4 p.m.: Pool Party
    Our daily poolside party. Games, dancing, fun and prizes!
  • 4-4:30 p.m. Chalk Art
    Meet at Meadow Swimming Pool to create a red, white and blue display.
  • 4:30-5:30 p.m.: Make Your Ice Cream ($4)
    Shake your way to a super delicious dessert! Meet at the Bike Barn.
  • 7 p.m.: Corn Toss
    Meet at the Campfire theatre for this fun tailgating game.
  • 7:30 p.m.: Campfire Lighting
  • 8 p.m.: Chip and Dale Campfire Sing-a-Long
  • 8:40 p.m.: Movie – Homeward Bound
  • 9 p.m.: Golf Cart Parade
    Register at the Bike Barn by 7 p.m. Parade will travel down Fort Wilderness Trail toward Pioneer Hall.

The Fourth of July activities at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge look super fun!!!

  • 1 p.m. Patriotic Craft – Come on over to the party cart by the pool, and make a patriotic memory to take home.
  • 2 p.m. Red White and Blue Pitchburst – Join us for our very favorite hot weather game. Hit the target to break a giant water balloon over a volunteer’s head.
  • 3 p.m. Big Blast Pool Party – Join us by the party cart for lots of fast paced poolside holiday fun and a treasure box prize.
  • 4 p.m. Big Beach Party Begins!!!
  • 4 – 4:45 p.m.: Sand Castle Contest (awards from 4:45-5:00).Bring your team (or join one on the spot) and show us your creativity and construction skills and maybe even win a prize!
  • 5 – 6:30 p.m.: Make Your Own Ice Cream. Join us on the beach for this super sweet deal! We will show you how to make your own ice cream. In a matter of minutes you can mix, shake and eat!
  • 6:30 – 7 p.m. Splash and Score This is another fun hot weather game. Come show us your skills!
  • 7:30 – 8:45 p.m. Campfire Fourth of July tradition means a campfire on the beach! Come on down and join us for campfire fun, followed by fireworks and a patriotic movie on the beach.
  • 9 p.m. – Fireworks Enjoy the movie, “National Treasure”, immediately following the fireworks.

However you decide to spend the Fourth of July, we hope that you have a very safe and fun holiday full of food, fireworks, and great memories!

We’ll be tweeting pictures and information about the festivities starting on July 3rd, so make sure you follow us on @onthegoinmco and like our Facebook page for all the fun!!!

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Enzian Announces Saturday Matinee Classics Lineup

Every second Saturday of the month, Enzian offers a legendary cinematic masterpiece the way it should be seen – on the big screen! The lineup for the remainder of this year represents iconic moments in film history that every film lover should see. Each screening begins with a special brief introduction that will engage the audience with fascinating information about the film. Tickets are $8 and only $5 for Enzian members.

Saturday, July 14, 11:00 a.m.
CHILDREN OF PARADISE (1945)
Rated PG
Director Marcel Carne’s entrancing love story “Children of Paradise” has often been called “the French ‘Gone With the Wind.’” Filmed during the German occupation, this French milestone centers around the theatrical life of a beautiful courtesan and the four men who love her in their own ways: a mime, an actor, a criminal, and an aristocrat. Nominated for an Oscar® for Best Original Screenplay, the brand new restoration of this
grand masterpiece creates the richest pictorial detail that’s ever been seen along with a fully-restored soundtrack.

http://www.enzian.org/film/children_of_paradise/

Saturday, August 11, 11:00 a.m.
THE GODFATHER PART II (1974)
Rated R
Director Francis Ford Coppola’s legendary sequel to his landmark 1972 film, “The Godfather Part II,” follows the young Vito Corleone’s rise and his son Michael’s spiritual fall. This movie of staggering magnitude and vision garnered eleven Academy Award® nominations and six wins including Best Picture. Robert De Niro took home the Oscar® for Best Supporting Actor.

http://www.enzian.org/film/the_godfather_part_ii/

Saturday, September 8, Noon
AN AMERICAN IN PARIS (1951)
Not Rated
Fall in love with this timeless musical gem featuring Gene Kelly in top form, a classic George Gershwin score, and the romantic City of Lights that claimed six Academy Awards® including Best Picture. From catchy tunes like “I Got Rhythm” and “Love is
Here to Stay” to an extravagant ballet performance, it’s movie magic at its best.

http://www.enzian.org/film/an_american_in_paris/

Saturday, October 13, Noon
THE SHINING (1980)
Rated R
Just in time for Halloween, Enzian presents Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s horror masterpiece. Jack Torrence (a defining role for Jack Nicholson), his wife (Shelley Duvall), and psychic son Danny (Danny Lloyd) are snowed in at the remote, foreboding Overlook Hotel and soon discover that its spirits have a sinister plan. Remember “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” so join us for some intense,
downright scary fun!

http://www.enzian.org/film/the_shining/

Saturday, November 10, 11:00 a.m.
NASHVILLE (1975)
Rated R
One of the most celebrated films of the 1970s, Robert Altman’s Oscar®-winning epic presents a portrayal and critique of the American obsession with celebrities. The intersecting stories of 24 characters through five days in the country music capital come together in a dramatic climax. Keith Carradine, Lily Tomlin, Karen Black, Ned Beatty, Scott Glenn, Jeff Goldblum, and many others make up the extraordinary ensemble cast.

http://www.enzian.org/film/nashville/

Saturday, December 8, Noon
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (1946)
Not Rated
An Enzian Tradition! This Frank Capra wintertime comedy/drama stars James Stewart and was nominated for five Academy Awards® including Best Actor, Best Director, and Best Picture. The epiphany of movie sentiment and a transcendent experience, “It’s a Wonderful Life” tells the story of an angel helping a compassionate but despairingly frustrated businessman by showing what life would have been like if he never existed.

http://www.enzian.org/film/its_a_wonderful_life/

About Enzian:
Enzian is Central Florida’s only full-time, not-for-profit cinema for first-run independent and international films, classic revivals, documentary features, and select family entertainment. Enzian, a member-supported organization serving the community for 27 years, is home to Eden Bar and the internationally recognized Florida Film Festival.

For additional information:
On-line: www.Enzian.org
Phone: (407) 629-1088
Facebook: Facebook.com/EnzianTheater
Twitter: @EnzianTheater

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Crank It Up! Radio Rebel Is Available on DVD June 19th!

Radio Rebel starring Debby Ryan (“Jessie”, 16 Wishes) premiered on The Disney Channel as cable’s #1 scripted telecast in its time period in total viewers (4.3 MM); it was also the #1 telecast of the night for kids 2-14.

Here is a short synopsis of the movie…

To everyone in her home town, Tara Adams (Debby Ryan) is just an ordinary high school junior, except for one thing … she has a secret identity. Truth is, she’s actually Radio Rebel, the most popular DJ in Seattle! In person, Tara is a nondescript, socially under-the-radar, teenager; but get her behind the mic and she becomes Radio Rebel, the coolest personality on the air! This unique status is desperately in need at the moment as her school is in the midst of a clique-crisis. Radio Rebel gives voice to all kids, popular and unpopular alike, and she publicly questions the status quo, which does not sit well with the principal who is determined to uncover Radio Rebel’s true identity. On top of all that mean girl Stacy (Merritt Patterson, “Kyle XY”) is intent on coming between Tara must decide between keeping her alter ego a secret, or being true to herself: a choice with major repercussions.

Zoe was in love with this movie from the start!!! It was a lot of fun to watch her really get into the friendships, get angry at Principal Moreno, and be really excited during the dance at the end.

Radio Rebel is based on the book Shrinking Violet, by Danielle Joseph, was adapted into a movie, certain elements were altered, which included the character Teresa being renamed Tara and also her radio personality was originally Sweet T.

Bonus materials include Debby Ryan’s music video “We Got The Beat”, deleted scenes, Blooper Reel, and five new featurettes (Who is Radio Rebel?, From Prom to MORP, Rockin’ Out with Radio Rebel, On the Set with Debby Ryan, and Red Carpet Rebel). The bonus features are a lot of fun, and Zoe asked me to play the “We Got The Beat” a million times! LOL!

Radio Rebel is a super cute movie that was really enjoyable and a lot of fun!!!

 

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Z0ItHqeiSo

 

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Orlando Magic And Disney Fan Merchandise

Recently, I was able to attend a Behind the Scenes Tour of the Amway Center thanks to Aurora and it was amazing!!!

Before the tour of the Amway Center, we were able to spend a few minutes browsing the Magic Team Shop and I thought it was pretty awesome to find some Disney and Marvel Orlando Magic merchandise!

If you ever have a chance to head down to the Amway Center, take a moment to check out the Magic Team Shop!!!

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Summer Merchandise Is Out And About At The Walt Disney World Resort!

Yesterday while I was in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, I peeked into Keystone Clothiers and I was really glad that I did!

The summer merchandise is out and it is so amazingly cute it hurts!

I hope that you enjoy this look at some of the new summer merchandise that is out in the parks!

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Our Thoughts on Disney’s Hollywood Studios For #DHSAwareness

Hi everyone!

In celebration of Studios Central Disney’s Hollywood Awareness week, we thought we would end it with a round-table discussion on our thoughts on Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

We hope that you enjoy some of thoughts and pictures of Studios!

1. What is your favorite attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and how long would you wait to ride?

Shalon – I am a fan of Tower of Terror, and I would wait 30 minutes.

Cheryl – Toy Story Mania with a wait of 30 minutes.

Aurora – I adore Toy Story but, I am a fast pass only girl when it comes to that ride. I will wait about 60 minutes tops for it. ONLY because the   queue line is so interesting that it seems to make the time go by faster!!!

Betsy – I love the Great Movie Ride! Classic films are right up my alley and my favorite film of all time (Casablanca) is featured in the ride. I’d say the longest I’ve waited is probably 20 – 30 minutes. There is an attraction I have waited longer for and that is Toy Story Midway Mania with my goddaughter and that was an hour wait, but I’d still say GMR is my fave.

Megan – I love Aerosmith’s Rock ‘n Rollercoaster.  I think the longest I’ve waited to ride it is 30 minutes.  I have run over to it before a breakfast reservation to make sure that I have a fastpass for after breakfast.

Shelley – I have to say that my favorite attraction at DHS is The Great Movie Ride. I know it sounds cheesy, but I have had the best time on this ride with my friends! It’s always a great way to end our day at DHS! I would wait 45 minutes since I like to imitate the clips in the main holding area.

 

2. If you could be any character in any show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios who would you be?

Cheryl – I am a big Star Wars fan, so I would like to be R2D2 in Hyperspace Hoopla!

Aurora – Indiana Jones of course! You get a hat and a whip and you get to shoot a gun and be the hero!!!!!

Betsy – Hmm, this one is tough. I love The Little Mermaid and used to actually spend my recess singing Part of Your World, so Ariel is a possibility. I think I’d have to go with Marion from Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular. What can I say? I have a thing for Indy. 😉

Megan – Definitely Belle.  I always sing along to movie and I think that the stage show in the studios is definitely well done.  And if I can’t be Belle, I would love to be one of the dancers in the show.

Shelley – I am going to bend the rules of ‘show’ a little…I think I should be able to since I wrote the questions! LOL! I would love to be Mimi Kaboom! She is my favorite Citizen of Hollywood…just don’t tell Paige Turner.

Shalon – Belle in the Beauty and the Beast stage show!

 

3. What is your favorite spot in Disney’s Hollywood Studios?

Aurora – My Husband and I tend to spend the most time at the Animation Building. We love to do the drawing classes but we like the quiet and air conditioning!

Betsy – Possibly Animation Academy since I so enjoy drawing some of my favorite characters. If you are talking about a place to hang out, then maybe Studio Catering Company for people watching or the Writer’s Stop for somewhere cooler. For strictly aesthetic purposes, I’d say the queue of the Tower of Terror due to the crazy details, especially in the lobby.

Megan – The Writer’s Stop.  It is my favorite place to sit back and relax.  I usually grab a snack and one (or two) of the cookbooks that I can “ooh” and “ahh” over the recipes.

Shelley – I really enjoy taking my time to wander through One Man’s Dream to try to find a little something that I have never seen before, and I always watch the movie…even though it makes me cry every time!!!

Shalon – I like to relax inside the Tune In lounge.

Cheryl – The area between One Man’s Dream and Voyage of the Little Mermaid, because it is a great area that always seems to be cool.

 

4. Where is your favorite place to eat at Disney’s Hollywood Studios?

Betsy – My go to table service restaurant is Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano. I love the flatbreads and the penne alla vodka. For counter service I tend to end up at Studio Catering Company for the veggie sandwich.

Shalon – I am a fan of the Brown Derby for the Cobb salad!

Megan – I love 50’s Prime Time Cafe.  The theming of the restaurant is superb. It reminds me of my grandparent’s house.  The food is the most delicious I’ve had in a theme park restaurant.  I always plan on trying something different when I visit but I always end up having the pot roast.  I highly recommend it! I wish I could duplicate the dish at home!

Shelley – I adore eating at the Sci Fi Dine in Theater! I am obsessed with their red velvet cheesecake, and where else can you see clips from bad movies, the kitchen of the future, and watch GARCO & Walt while you eat??

Cheryl – The ABC Commisary, because they have a great salad!

Aurora – I am a HUGE FAN of the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich at Studios Catering Company! It is a massive portion and the perfect amount of Spicy!! Plus they have the GOOD honey mustard that you can get as much as you want to dip your fries into!!

 

5. If you could add something to Disney’s Hollywood Studios what would it be?

Megan – I would love to have it be a working studio again. One of my favorite things about the studios of the past was when you would be able to see some of the animators at work.  It’s been years since they had any animators working there and I think it would give the guests a fun sneak peek at the upcoming films. In addition, it would give the younger guests an opportunity to see what an animator does.

Shelley – I agree with Scarlett Litton…Shade!!! No, in all seriousness I would really love to see something…well anything done with the Backlot Tour area! It is definitely time for a change!

Shalon – I would love to have the long rumored Monsters, Inc. Rollercoaster in the Park!

Cheryl – I wish there were more vegan options and more special diet options, like items from Babycakes! I can never seem to find snacks that are friendly for those with allergies.

Aurora – I would love if they re did the Backlot Tour…. It used to be something SO MUCH BETTER! Now it is just lame. The Pre recorded spiel is just stupid. I miss the interaction. I love walking through the prop warehouse and would rather do that then the tram ride. I would also love a new Parade…. the one we have right now is seven minutes of BAD!

Betsy – I would love if they would incorporate something into some of the currently unused spaces like the theater where the Hunchback of Notre Dame show used to be, or the space between Toy Story and Backlot Tour. It seems these areas only get used occasionally during Star Wars Weekends or not at all. Another E ticket ride of some sort next to TSMM would be great. I would also love to see another Broadway style musical show for one of the newer musicals like the Princess and the Frog or Tangled.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Registration Is Open For KidsFest: Young Filmmakers’ Summer Camp At The Enzian Theatre

The Enzian Theater in Maitland offer the chance to create your own movie at Young Filmmakers’ Summer Camp! Experience the art of filmmaking as you study cinematic techniques, learn about the exciting history of filmmaking, and dive into the production of an independent film. After wrapping the shoot, see your work projected on the big screen with your fellow filmmakers, family, and friends.

In addition to learning aspects of making a film (script writing, character development, shooting, editing, and more), students will learn a brief summary of film history and why film is still an important form of expression today.

This two-week summer camp, held July 23 – 27 and July 30 – August 3 with a graduation ceremony held on August 5, is located at Enzian Theater and open to children entering grades 5-8. No previous experience with filmmaking or equipment is required.

Full Camp dates and hours are as follows:

  • Mon-Thu 7/23-26 Camp: 9am – 5 pm
  • Friday 7/27 Camp: 9am – 3pm
  • Friday 8/3 Camp: 9am – 3pm
  • Sunday 8/5 Graduation & Premiere: 11am

Also during KidFest, there is a KidFest Summer Movie Series which offers film fans and children of all ages the rare opportunity to experience an exceptional selection of family-friendly movies. From unique, side-splitting silent comedy classics to popular and unusual retro favorites, Monday through Thursday screenings are now FREE for everyone and individual tickets on weekends are only $5!

The schedule for the KidFest Summer Movie Series is as follows:

Tuition for the Young Filmmaker’s Summer Camp is $500/$475 for Enzian Film Society members. To join the Enzian Film Society, click here.

Click here to fill out the registration form and make payment!

Tuition includes:

  • All instruction and supplies
  • Catered lunches and snacks each day of camp
  • Special red-carpet event for family and friends to see the final projects premiere on the big Enzian screen.

Please email Hollie Mahadeo at hmahadeo@enzian.org with any questions regarding KidFest.

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LEGOLAND Florida Expands Their Park With The Addition Of A Water Park

Just in time for summer, LEGOLAND Florida expanded their park options with the opening of their all-new Water Park on May 26, 2012.

“With the debut of our new water park, LEGOLAND Florida is now easily a two-day experience,” said LEGOLAND Florida General Manager Adrain Jones, “which puts us well down the road toward our goal of becoming a multi-day resort destination.”

A “park within a park,” the attraction includes Build-A-Raft River, where guests can build their own LEGO inner tubes and float down a 1,000-foot lazy river. For the little ones, the DUPLO Splash Safari is a toddler haven with perfectly sized slides a zero-depth wading pool. Guests of all ages can play for hours at the Joker Soaker water playground, a riot of brightly colored ladders, levers, pumps and slides of every length and type. And a 583,000 gallon, crystal clear wave pool and five slippery fast slides full of thrills.

The Water Park attraction is actually within LEGOLAND Florida, so guests must purchase a theme park ticket and pay an upgraded fee to enter the Water Park area and it also takes a lot more planning on your part to visit both in one day.

There are several different ticketing options if you are interested in visiting both the LEGOLAND theme park and water park.

  • Purchase a single-day LEGOLAND Florida ticket with water park upgrade for $87 (adult) or $77 (Children 3-12). Children under 3 only pay $3 for the water park.
  • Purchase a two-day ticket for $97 (adult) or $87 (Children 3-12) and get access to the theme park and water park for both days. Second day admission must be used within nine days of the first visit.
  • Purchase a Premium Pass for $179 (adult) or $149 (Children 3-12) and get unlimited access to LEGOLAND Florida and the water park (open Seasonally).

It is also important to know that the Water Park opens one hour after LEGOLAND Florida opens its gates seasonally, and since park hours fluctuate its a good idea to check www.LEGOLAND.com when you are planning your visit to the parks.

The first thing that you will want to do is reserve a locker for your belongings at a self-serve kiosk. There are three sizes of lockers available for rent small ($5), large ($7), and family ($12). Also, if you need an extra towel they are available for rent for a daily fee of $3.

There are plenty of umbrellas and lounge chairs, but if you are looking to have an upgraded experience you can reserve a private cabana online or when you arrive. The cabanas are large and airy and include a mini-fridge stocked with 10 bottles of water, upgraded lounge chairs and two souvenir towels. Daily cabana rental prices range from $79 to $199 based on season.

The LEGOLAND Water Park is a perfect way to introduce toddlers and younger children to the water park experience!

The Duplo Splash Safari is a play area perfect for timid toddlers that is loaded with hands on activities such as small slides, animal sprayers, and zero entry splash area. It is such a cute and perfect area for little ones to gain their confidence and have a great time learning about safety at a water park.

Another fun way to experience and see the park is by taking a ride on the 1,000 foot Build-A-Raft River where you can gather floating LEGO foam bricks to create your own perfect raft. This was by far my most favorite attraction! We had a blast floating around the lazy river gathering LEGO pieces to decorate our rafts!!!

Wave pools are tame at the LEGOLAND Florida water park, where gentle rolling waves make the LEGO Wave Pool perfect for the whole family. Smaller children can play at the water’s edge and work up the courage to venture further into the deeper end. The pool is just the right size that its not overwhelming!!!

If the LEGO Wave Pool is too much, you can take a break at the LEGO Imagination Station where kids can test their building skills in this water play area in the shade. I really appreciated that this area was under a large shade, because its important to have some time out of the sun for the little ones.

The Joaker Soaker is a gigantic water playground that is full of brightly colored ladders, levers, pumps and slides of every length and type. It is a great place to let the kids climb and play while the adults take a small and well deserved break! Who am I kidding? We had a blast running and splashing around in this area!!!

If you have thrill seekers in your party, you might want to check out Splash Out and Twin Towers which play home to five super fast slides.

At the Beach-n-Brick Grille there are several healthy (and not so healthy options) available with value in mind since every menu item is priced below $10, before tax, including combos that come with fries, salad or slaw and a 22-ounce drink.

The Surf Shop is the perfect place to shop for things you may have forgotten at home such as sunscreen, towels, swimsuits, and all sorts of things that may be useful for a day at the water park.

I really enjoyed my time at the LEGOLAND Water Park, and think that it is an excellent way to introduce toddlers and younger children to a water park experience!

 

 

 

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