Petes Dragon Celebrating 35 Years And Now Avaialble On Disney BluRay

Petes Dragon
Pete’s Dragon is Celebrating it’s 35th Anniversary on BluRay!

PETES DRAGON 35th Anniversary Edition BLU_RAY

Available for the First Time in High Definition with New Digital Restoration on October 16th, 2012 in a 2-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack

Petes Dragon is one of the first Disney movies that I saw as a child, and was one of my favorites.  I had not seen it since I was my daughter’s age, so it was great to be able to watch it with her like it was my first time.  The timeless story of lost and rediscovered love never gets old and makes for a great family movie.

This endearing story between Pete and his invisible dragon friend Elliott as they develop a special bond and share a magical friendship is a classic Walt Disney movie that is a must see.  With memorable cast of characters, Mickey Rooney, Helen Reddy, Sean Marshall, Red Buttons, and Jim Dale, and heartwarming songs including the 1977 Academy Award “Best Original Song” nominee, “Candle On The Water,” Pete’s Dragon 35th Anniversary is the perfect timeless classic every member of your family will love.

When Pete, an orphan, and his best friend Elliot, an invisible green dragon, wander into the seaside village of Passamaquody, the townspeople think he’s behind a slew of hilarious mishaps. But after a daring rescue, they change their tune and believe in Pete’s fire-breathing buddy.

While the transfer of the film to High Definition isn’t without its flaws, the movie still holds a lot of charm! And the Bonus Features on Petes Dragon are a lot of fun! We really enjoyed looking at Brazzle Dazzle Effects: Behind Disney’s Movie Magic and the Deleted Storyboard Sequence: “Terminus & Hoagy Hunt Elliott”.

If you ever had an invisible friend when you were younger or remember watching this movie when you were younger, you won’t want to miss the chance to relive this movie classic again!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYT975dSm9c

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Solar Bears Earn First Victory Over Everblades 8-2

 

SOLAR BEARS EARN FIRST VICTORY OVER EVERBLADES 8-2

Orlando Hosts Florida at Sold Out Amway Center Tomorrow Night

 

Click here to view the box score

 

Estero, FL – The Orlando Solar Bears scored four goals in each of the first two periods en route to an 8-2 win over the Everbaldes at the Germain Arena on Friday Night. C Ryan Cruthers was the only player with multiple goals, while C Mathew Sisca finished the contest with four assists.

 

Orlando came out on fire in the opening frame, as LW Ryan Ginand collected his own rebound in front of the net and powered the shot home for a 1-0 lead 7:38 into the period. At 10:45, F Rob Mignardi held the puck in the offensive zone and found F C.J. Severyn open in front, who tapped in the pass to increase the lead to 2-0. Just 45 seconds later, F Josh Caron slammed home a wraparound and F Olivier Fortier capped off the scoring, deflecting home a pass from D Kyle Medvec with 6:29 left in the period.

 

The offensive rush continued for the Solar Bears in the second period. Medvec started it off when finished off a wrap around 6:46 into the middle frame. The score was pushed to 6-0 1:30 later when LW Nick Petersen fired home his own rebound. Cruthers picked the next two goals, first deflecting in a Petersen shot and then blasting home a power play goal with 36 seconds left in the game.

 

Florida struck back early in the third period as F Justin Shugg capitalized 56 seconds into the frame. F Leigh Salters made it an 8-2 score when he redirected a shot midway through the period, but neither team would strike after that and the Solar Bears skated away with the 8-2 victory.

 

Three Stars: 1. R. Cruthers (ORL); 2. M. Sisca (ORL); 3. R. Ginand (ORL)

Power Plays: ORL: 1/6; FLA: 0/4

Shots: ORL: 49; FLA: 22

 

Notes:

The Solar Bears play their first-ever home ECHL game tomorrow at 7:00 p.m. Doors open at 6:00 p.m… LW Nick Petersen and C Ryan Cruthers have now both scored in all three Solar Bears Games… Caron’s first period goal was his first as a professional… F Olivier Fortier played his first Solar Bears game and scored a goal in the first period… C Mathew Sisca finished the game with four assists… Orlando has combined for 96 shots in their two Friday night games.

 

The Orlando Solar Bears, the ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Minnesota Wild and AHL’s Houston Aeros, are coming Out of Hibernation and will play 36 regular season home games at the 2012 Street and Smith’s Sports Business Journal Sports Facility of the Year, the Amway Center, beginning October 20, 2012. Individual tickets for all 36 regular season home games are now on sale beginning as low as $15. To purchase your tickets, please visit www.OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.com or the Amway Center Box Office.

Follow the Solar Bears at www.OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.comFacebook, and Twitter (@OrlandoHockey) for all the latest news and updates.

Season ticket plans are available now. Everyone is invited to take advantage of the Orlando Solar Bears season ticket pre-sale offer by placing a $50 deposit per ticket now to receive seat selection priority. Full and half season ticket plans range in price from $225-$1480 per season ticket (includes facility fee), reflecting a savings of up to 42% off box office pricing. Call the Solar Bears at 407-951-8200 to speak to a Ticket Sales Account Manager.

Group tickets are a great way to entertain employees, co-workers, clients, friends and family. For more information on discounted group tickets and a list of group benefits, call 407-951-8200 or click here.

Orlando Solar Bears merchandise can be purchased online at: http://shop.orlandosolarbearshockey.com/

  

       

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The Rescuers and The Rescuers Down Under Available on Disney Blu-Ray

The Rescuers
The Rescuers and The Rescuers Down Under Available Now on Disney Blu-Ray!

To commemorate the 35th anniversary of an original classic, Disney proudly presents a special 2-movie collection featuring all-time family favorites, The Rescuers and The Rescuers Down Under, for the first time ever on Blu-ray! Join two of the world’s bravest mice – Bernard and Bianca – as they set out on two thrilling rescue missions full of comic adventure while soaring through the Devil’s Bayou and flying sky high in the Australian outback.

The Rescuers Is based on the children’s books by Margery Sharp, which are great reads, and are full of great adventures and lessons for the whole family.

In The Rescuers, Miss Bianca and Bernard travel to Louisiana to rescue Penny from the evil Madame Medusa.  While I really enjoyed the story of the The Rescuers the animation definitely has its moments yet in the end it just isn’t as great as other Disney Animated Classics. I also had a really hard time becoming invested in Madame Medusa as a villain. Zoe spent a lot of time laughing and enjoying The Rescuers, because it is filled with face paced action and tons of gags that she found hilarious.

Also included in this 35th Anniversary combo pack is The Rescuers Down Under, the sequel to the original movie. With the same general premise, except set in Australia, the movie tries really hard but never makes it up to the same level as The Rescuers The comedy is more slap-stick and the action is a little lack luster at times.

As with all other Disney Blu-Ray movies , The Rescuers and The Rescuers Down Under is chocked full of some great Bonus Features!!!

  • “Peoplitis” is a deleted song written for a scene that was never animated. Ron Clements introduces us to the scene (using storyboards) and song as sung by Louis Prima
  •  “The Three Blind Mouseketeers” is a 1936 Silly Symphony cartoon
  • Water Birds is the Oscar-winning 1952 short feature in the True-Life Adventure series detailing many different species of water fowl with the legendary nature photography Disney became known for. This is in 1080p and runs for 30 minutes.
  • “Someone’s Waiting for You” sing along song offers on-screen lyrics with clips from The Rescuers.
  • “The Making of The Rescuers Down Under is a vignette giving a few minutes of face time to producer Thomas Schumacher, directors Hendel Butoy and Mike Gabriel, several animators, and the film’s art director discussing the two year production period that included a research trip to Australia and trips to the San Diego Zoo to watch real animals in motion.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDyq1iMAcuA&feature=share&list=PL09FF7CDF3EC57920

Buckle up for the ride of your life as these tiny heroes with great big hearts outrun and outwit their rivals to save the day. Brimming with lovable characters and unforgettable music, the 2-movie collection is high-flying fun for the entire family!

The Rescuers

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Ryan Cruthers Named Solar Bears Captain

 
RYAN CRUTHERS NAMED SOLAR BEARS CAPTAIN
Baker, Martin to Serve as Alternates
Ryan Cruthers
Solar Bears

Orlando, FL – The Orlando Solar Bears named C Ryan Cruthers the first captain in the ECHL history of the Orlando Solar Bears. RW Kevin Baker and D Derick Martin will serve as alternate captains.

Cruthers, a veteran of over 250 professional games, was the first player signed by the Orlando Solar Bears this summer. He is currently second on the Solar Bears in points, having scored two goals and one assist in the first two Solar Bears games. The Farmingdale, NY, native was the captain of the ECHL’s Reading Royals for the last two seasons, and has 241 points (88 goals, 153 assists) in 241 ECHL games.

Baker and Martin each bring a wealth of experience to the Orlando lineup. Baker is Kevin Bakera former MVP of the ECHL, winning the honor in 2008-09 while scoring 57 goals and 45 assists for 102 points in 70 games – all with the Florida Everblades. He has  played over 400 games in his professional career, and in 317 ECHL games he has collected 353 points.

Martin has logged the most ECHL games out the group, appearing in 425 league contests. A strong stay-at-home defenseman, Martin has tallied 98 points in the ECHL, including 11 goals and 87 assists. He was an alternate captain for the Victoria Salmon Kings (ECHL) in 2010-11. Derick Martin

“We have a very experienced veteran leadership group,” said Head Coach Drake Berehowsky. “Their character and desire to compete is second to none.”

The Orlando Solar Bears, the ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Minnesota Wild and AHL’s Houston Aeros, are coming Out of Hibernation and will play 36 regular season home games at the 2012 Street and Smith’s Sports Business Journal Sports Facility of the Year, the Amway Center, beginning October 20, 2012.

Individual tickets for all 36 regular season home games are now on sale beginning as low as $15. To purchase your tickets, please visit www.OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.com or the Amway Center Box Office.

Follow the Solar Bears at www.OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.comFacebook, and Twitter(@OrlandoHockey) for all the latest news and updates.

Season ticket plans are available now. Everyone is invited to take advantage of the Orlando Solar Bears season ticket pre-sale offer by placing a $50 deposit per ticket now to receive seat selection priority. Full and half season ticket plans range in price from $225-$1480 per season ticket (includes facility fee), reflecting a savings of up to 42% off box office pricing. Call the Solar Bears at 407-951-8200 to speak to a Ticket Sales Account Manager.

Group tickets are a great way to entertain employees, co-workers, clients, friends and family. For more information on discounted group tickets and a list of group benefits, call407-951-8200 or click here.

Orlando Solar Bears merchandise can be purchased online at: http://shop.orlandosolarbearshockey.com/

Solar Bears     Solar Bears    Solar Bears

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Star Wars Miniland Cluster Opening At LEGOLAND Florida On November 9th

LEGO® STAR WARS MINILAND MODEL DISPLAY 
WILL OPEN NOV. 9 AT LEGOLAND® FLORIDA
Star Wars Miniland Cluster
The Millennium Falcon that will be part of the Star Wars Miniland Cluster at LEGOLAND Florida is beyond amaizing!!!

Today, LEGOLAND® Florida announced that the new LEGO® Star Wars Miniland Cluster Display will officially open for their guests to enjoy and interact with on Friday, November 9.

The LEGO® Star Wars Miniland Cluster will include a scene from each of the six live-action Star Wars movies, as well as a scene from the animated series Star Wars: The CloneWars™ all created from more than 1.5 million LEGO bricks and built in 1:20 scale. Following a chronological path through the Star Wars™ timeline, guests will retrace the major events of the beloved Saga. Some of the 2,000 LEGO® models will be more than 6-feet-tall. Interactive buttons will allow children to activate animations throughout the scenes.

Star Wars Miniland Cluster
The Star Wars Miniland Cluster Model layout.

I had the chance to attend the Press Conference at LEGOLAND Florida where we the Star Wars Miniland Cluster was announced and where we were able to see a few of the LEGO® models, and they are amazingly detailed and even light up at night. The Millennium Falcon is AMAZING!!!! And the space that they have dedicated to this Miniland expansion is large in comparison to the other Miniland Clusters.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3P_BDwlFhY&feature=share&list=UUKUmCfXogxpwTIU_us3tbWQ

I am beyond excited about the expansion and cannot wait to see the completed LEGO® Star Wars Miniland Cluster!!! Especially since the Miniland area of LEGOLAND Florida is my favorite part of the park!!!

I have included some of my pictures from the LEGO® Star Wars Miniland Cluster announcement so you can get an idea about the look and feel of the area will be.

To purchase tickets, visit www.legoland.com.

What do you think???

 

Star Wars Miniland Cluster
A closer look at the Star Wars Miniland Area.
Star Wars Miniland Cluster
Jason, a designer and builder for the Star Wars Miniland, proudly showed off his name tag figures.
Star Wars Miniland Cluster
A close up view of Darth Maul in LEGO form.
Star Wars Miniland Cluster
A creepy side view of Darth Maul .

 

Star Wars Miniland Cluster
You can see that no detail, or pilot, was left out of the models.
Star Wars Miniland Cluster
In the Star Wars Miniland Cluster LEGO Darth Vader will be out at various times to greet LEGOLAND Florida Guests.

 

 

 

 

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Pammie’s Sammies Grand-ReOpening!

Pammie's Sammies
Pammie’s Sammies
5907 Turkey Lake Road, Suite 100
Orlando, Florida 32819

I got the chance to swing by the Grand ReOpening of Pammies’ Sammies, located near the Universal Orlando Resort, and I have to say it was super yummy and a great place to just kick back and have a nice meal with friends or family.

Pammie’s Sammies is a family owned cafe that prides itself on being thoughtfully sourced, earth friendly and tastefully adventurous. Pam Thomas, the proprietor, puts an innovative spin on classic sandwiches (“sammies”), burgers, BBQ, soups and salads. As part of the grand reopening, Pammie’s Sammies has expanded to include a craft beer and wine bar and will now serve happy hour bar bites and dinner entrees in addition to their original breakfast and lunch offerings.

While the food is absolutely delicious, their Cuban was my favorite and Zoe has been asking for more brownies, it is Pam herself that really creates an atmosphere of fun and hospitality that makes you feel like you are a friend just dropping in for a bite to eat.

And when I say it’s located near the Universal Orlando Resort, I mean you can SEE Universal Studios Florida from there windows, which make it an ideal place to stop before or after heading into the parks.

If you are looking for an affordable, fun, and delicious place to grab a great Sammie, I would definitely suggest heading over to Pammie’s Sammies!

Pammie's Sammies
Pammie Herself
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Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure Available Now On Disney Blu-Ray

Lady and the Tramp II
Lady and the Tramp II Available Now On Disney Blu-Ray
Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure is available now for the first time ever on Disney Blu-Ray!

I absolutely love Lady and the Tramp, which probably explains my unusual love of Tony’s Town Square at the Magic Kingdom, so when the opportunity to review Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure came about I jumped at the chance!

In Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure, Lady and Tramp’s mischievous pup Scamp decides that he doesn’t fit in with his family and decides to run away. Once he has left his collar behind, he joins a gang of junkyard dogs who don’t always have his best interests in mind. Scamp also meets, saves, and falls in love with a pretty little pup named Angel, voiced by Alyssa Milano, along the way. This movie is a great example of the heartwarming direct-to-video sequels that were being created at the time of its original release. There are some great nods to Lady and the Tramp in Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure, and it really looks great in this Blu-Ray Format.

Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure has some fun bonuses, and we really enjoyed the Puppy Trivia Track which allows you to watch the movie with tons of fun facts about dogs, the movie, and dogs as they have appeared throughout Disney. Also on the Blu-Ray release of Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure you can find some Pluto Bonus Shorts, which are always a must watch for my family.

You can absolutely tell that Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure was created by people who have love and respect for Lady and the Tramp, and is a cute movie to watch if your family is full of dog lovers! We enjoyed the movie, but be warned it is a shorter side so you may be asked to watch it twice!!!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYd0k3pfrKM&feature=share&list=PLA205D38295C070D7

Lady and the Tramp II

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Solar Bears Alum Todd Richards At Opening Night Ceremonies

 
SOLAR BEARS ALUM TODD RICHARDS TO TAKE PART
IN OPENING NIGHT CEREMONIES
Come Early to Watch Pregame Ceremonies – Doors Open at 6:00 p.m.
Solar Bears Alum Todd Richards
Solar Bears

Orlando, FL – The Orlando Solar Bears announced today that Todd Richards, the captain of the 2001 Orlando Solar Bears Turner Cup Championship team, will take part in the Opening Night Pregame Ceremonies at the Amway Center on Saturday, October 20.

Richards was a member of the Orlando Solar Bears for all six seasons of the team’s existence, including serving as the captain when Orlando won the Turner Cup in 2001. He played 423 games with Orlando, scoring 61 goals and 199 assists for 260 points while also recording 408 PIM.

He became the head coach of Orlando’s NHL affiliate, the Minnesota Wild, in 2009, and is the current head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets. He took over as the head coach in Columbus midway through last season.

“The Solar Bears and the Orlando community are a big part of my life,” said Richards. “I have many fond memories of the Turner Cup Championship season. Both my kids were born here, and I am looking forward to being a part of Opening Night.”

“Todd made tremendous contributions to the Solar Bears and the Orlando community,” said Solar Bears Managing Partner Jason Siegel. “We are pleased that he and his wife will be in attendance for this momentous occasion.”

The Orlando Solar Bears, the ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Minnesota Wild and AHL’s Houston Aeros, are coming Out of Hibernation and will play 36 regular season home games at the 2012 Street and Smith’s Sports Business Journal Sports Facility of the Year, the Amway Center, beginning October 20, 2012.

Individual tickets for all 36 regular season home games are now on sale beginning as low as $15. To purchase your tickets, please visit www.OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.com or the Amway Center Box Office.

Follow the Solar Bears at www.OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.comFacebook, and Twitter(@OrlandoHockey) for all the latest news and updates.

Season ticket plans are available now. Everyone is invited to take advantage of the Orlando Solar Bears season ticket pre-sale offer by placing a $50 deposit per ticket now to receive seat selection priority. Full and half season ticket plans range in price from $225-$1480 per season ticket (includes facility fee), reflecting a savings of up to 42% off box office pricing. Call the Solar Bears at 407-951-8200 to speak to a Ticket Sales Account Manager.

Group tickets are a great way to entertain employees, co-workers, clients, friends and family. For more information on discounted group tickets and a list of group benefits, call407-951-8200 or click here.

Orlando Solar Bears merchandise can be purchased online at: http://shop.orlandosolarbearshockey.com/

       

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AKC Celebrate Dogs! Tickets Go On Sale October 19th

AKC Celebrate Dogs
AKC Celebrate Dogs Tickets Go On Sale October 19th!!!

AKC Celebrate Dogs! Tickets Go on Sale October 19 for Nation’s Largest Dog Event

December 15 & 16 at Orange County Convention Center

The American Kennel Club & Eukanuba Present Family Fun Celebration Featuring Over 140 AKC Meet the Breeds® Booths, Eukanuba Super Dogs, Holiday Shopping & More!

Tickets for AKC Celebrate Dogs!, the largest celebration of man’s best friend in the United States, go on sale Friday, Oct. 19. Celebrate Dogs! will arrive at the Orange County Convention Center Dec. 15 and 16, offering dog lovers two days packed full of exciting, canine-centric, family-friendly, dog-gone fun.Presented by The American Kennel Club and Eukanuba, the AKC Celebrate Dogs! is open from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday and features events that guarantee fun for the whole family.Celebrate Dogs! tickets will be available through the AKC Website. Celebrate Dogs!  tickets also can be purchased in person at the Orange County Convention Center Box Office on the days of the event.Day Ticket for Saturday OR Sunday (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

Adult $20
Senior (65+) & 13-18 Yrs $15
Children 2-12 Yrs $5
Children Under 2 Yrs FREE
Active Military FREE w/ ID

 

Family Fun for Dog Lovers!

  • ·         AKC Meet the Breeds®  – where more than 140 different dog breeds and breed experts will be on hand to meet the public. Meet the Breeds is the perfect venue to learn about the different breeds so that prospective dog owners can find the right breed for their lifestyle. Don’t miss out – this fun and educational AKC event is only held twice a year: in October in New York City and at Celebrate Dogs! in Orlando this December.
  • ·         Dock Dogs demonstrating their amazing and extreme dock diving talents
  • ·         Eukanuba Extreme Soccer Dogs playing soccer with children in attendance
  • ·         Eukanuba Super Dogs, a delightful, family-fun show featuring talented canines displaying a variety of skills such as the world’s highest jumper and the quickest disc catching dog in the land.

The Competition Heats Up!

  • ·         The 12th Annual AKC/Eukanuba National Championship, the only dog show hosted by the American Kennel Club, features thousands of the world’s top canine competitors from across the country and around the globe as they vie for Best in Show honors, the title of National Champion and a total of $225,000 in prize money.
  • ·         Watch canine athletes race against the clock over challenging obstacles in the AKC Agility Invitational.
  • ·         See dogs put their best paw forward for the AKC National Obedience Invitational.
  • ·         Skilled youngsters and their dogs compete in their own age divisions in conformationagility and obedience.
  • ·         Top dogs from more than 40 countries around the world competing in the Eukanuba World Challenge.

Additionally, the Canine Celebration vendor mall will offer holiday shoppers more than 140 different doggie boutiques to pick out gifts for dog-loving family and friends. Shoppers can show off their breed loyalties with a dog breed shirt, pick up a new dog bed for the Beagle, and find exquisite, hand-crafted pet-oriented jewelry.

Celebrate Dogs! will comprise 800,000 square feet of event space in the West Building of the Orange County Convention Center. Convenient parking and free shuttle transportation will be available.

Celebrate Dogs! features a variety of exciting demonstrations and competitions including: the AKC Agility Invitational, the AKC National Obedience Invitational, AKC Meet the Breeds®, Dock Dogs, and the daytime dog show judging of the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship.  For more information, please visit http://www.akc.org/aenc/

Make sure you ‘Like’ AKC Celebrate Dogs! on Facebook and Follow Celebrate Dogs! on Twitter for great updates and information about this great event for dog lovers!!!

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Storybook Circus Update

Storybook Circus

The other day, I was so excited to see some of the new elements in the Storybook Circus area of the New Fantasyland expansion in the Magic Kingdom. I had not looked at any pictures, so I had no preconceived notions and hadn’t really done any research about the Big Top Souvenirs, Pete’s Silly Sideshow and the new open seating and food areas. Like the other sections of New Fantasyland that have been revealed so far, my expectations have been far exceeded.

Storybook Circus Characters

I only had a short time to explore, but I thoroughly enjoyed everything I saw. First, we explored the gift shop/snack location that is Big Top Souvenirs. This space is amazingly detailed and the Imagineers really did a great job bringing you into the whole circus theme. As you enter, you are greeted by Cast Members in circus costumes, welcoming you to play fun games like bean bag toss to knock over cans and juggling scarves. Awesome new merchandise themed around Storybook Circus as a whole and more specifically Dumbo, as well as general parks merchandise, are featured at the front of the shop.

Big Top Souvenirs
Big Top Treats
Juggling scarves
Toothpick holders
Carpet detail

The carpet is beautiful going from grass, to wooden planks, to the canvas of the circus tent. Circling the walls inside you find train cars from Casey Jr. themed after different animals like Tigers, Bears, Giraffes, Hippos, Hyenas, and even Penguins (where you can find the chilled bottle drinks). Above you, high up in the big top, you see rope ladders and trapezes. Not a detail was spared in the creation of this new shopping and snacking spot.

Caramel Corn and Haloween Cupcakes

Food offerings are similar to what you can find on Main Street in the Bakery and Confectionery and focus on baked goods like cookies, cupcakes and caramel apples. You can also find specialty items like Caramel Corn Cupcakes, Caramel Corn and other circus themed treats. One of my favorite frozen drinks, glaciers, are available in blue raspberry, strawberry and lemonade. Many of these items can be used as snack credits if you are participating in the Disney Dining Plan. In additional to these fresh baked items and drinks, you can find your typical offerings of Minnie’s Bake Shop prepackaged goods and Goofy’s Candy Company sweets.

Fulfilling yet another meet and greet area, Pete’s Silly Sideshow, plays host to the opportunity to meet Daisy, Minnie, Donald and Goofy in their alter egos as circus performers. There are some great nods in this area to classic characters like Pete and to films like Melody Time. It is a different setup here with a large tent open with four queues coming out of the middle and the meet and greet areas in the four quadrants of the circular tent.

Pete’s Silly Sideshow exterior
Pete’s meet and greet
Daisy and Minnie meet and greet area
Astounding Donaldo

Adjacent to the two tents is another tent that is open on one side and acts as a mini guest relations location. Cast Members are on hand to answer guest questions, Fastpass machines for Dumbo and Barnstormer are now located here, and there is lots of seating with fans blowing down on the benches and seats to keep guests cool. This area was so neat with a great map of Storybook Circus, water fountains, height measurements for the rides in Storybook Circus, and while we were there it seemed really quiet. I can imagine sneaking away to relax in this tent on an evening to take respite from the crowds in other areas of the park.

Tent waiting area
Outdoor seating area
Pretzel cart
Hot dog cart

Just between these three areas are some food carts with snacks like popcorn, churros, hot dogs, chips and drinks. Lots of tables and chairs circle this section of Storybook Circus, offering plenty of places to rest and relax while grabbing a quick bite between attractions. I love the brightly colors of the tables, and they even remind me of the Pixar ball.

All in all, I am so excited for the rest of New Fantasyland after seeing Storybook Circus. The attention to detail is beautiful and really plays into the circus theme very well. I look forward to what is in store with the rest of the work that is being done in this new section of the park. Have you seen the Storybook Circus’ newest additions yet? What are you most looking forward to seeing in person?

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Orlando City Announces Study Demonstrating $1.2 Billion Impact For Central Florida

ORLANDO CITY PRESENTS STUDY DEMONSTRATING $1.2B IMPACT FOR CENTRAL FLORIDA

Proposed stadium would cost $96 million and is key to entry into MLS

Orlando City Soccer - Weekly Review

Orlando City SC (OCSC) held a press conference on Tuesday, Oct. 9, at the Amway Center to present the Economic Impact Study the team commissioned from CS&L. The study showed that a new Major League Soccer (MLS) stadium would have a $1.2 billion economic impact on the local area. The presentation, led by OCSC President Phil Rawlins, was yet another step on the team’s journey toward an MLS franchise for Central Florida.

“We have a fantastic opportunity to bring a second major-league pro sports franchise to the city,” said Rawlins. “We need to grasp it with both hands and come together to make this work for the region.”

The report laid out the economic details on Orlando City’s goal of becoming a MLS franchise in the immediate future. The estimated cost of the new multi-purpose stadium would be $96 million. The new facility would generate new revenues of $1.2 billion over the next 30 years.

71% of the overall cost of the stadium would be spent locally in the Central Florida area, totaling $69 million. Construction of the facility would also create 890 jobs in the Orlando area.

USL teams, like Orlando, that have moved up to MLS have averaged a 325% attendance increase in their first season- making a strong statement that OCSC could draw big attendance numbers once in the MLS.

The proposed facility would also be able to host international friendly games, US National Team and NCAA Final Four soccer matches along with regional sporting events and concerts.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WCoiAeqDMg&feature=share&list=UUrCHG9q2F2U57_QSEKHWvIQ

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is the premier professional soccer sports franchise in the State of Florida. The Lion’s have won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. For more info on pro or youth soccer in Orlando visit www.orlandocitysoccer.comand www.orlandocityyouth.org.

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The Aristocats Special Edition Brings This Disney Classic To Life In Stunning Blu-Ray For the First Time!

The Aristocats Special Edition Brings This Disney Classic To Life In Stunning Blu-Ray For the First Time!

The Aristocats Special Edition
The Aristocats Special Edition available now on Blu-Ray!

Disney’s spectacular 20th full-length animated feature The Aristocats has arrived for the first time ever in stunning Blu-ray high definition as a The Aristocats Special Edition 2-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack (Blu-ray + DVD) and Digital. Featuring a beautiful new digital restoration and great new bonus features, The Aristocats Special Edition invites audiences to relive all the tune-filled feline fun, comedy and adventure of this Disney classic.

The exciting tale takes place in the heart of Paris where a kind and eccentric millionairess, wills her entire estate to ‘Duchess,’ a high society cat, and her three kittens. When the bumbling butler Edgar tries to pull off the ultimate catnap caper in order to secure the fortune for himself, it’s up to alley cat Thomas O’Malley and his band of swingin’ jazz cats to save the day. The Aristocats features the voice talents of Eva Gabor, Phil Harris, Sterling Halloway and legendary French singer Maurice Chevalier, who performs the film’s titular opening song. The legendary Disney songwriting team of brothers, Richard and Robert Sherman, get the joint jumping with the jazz-inspired musical numbers Ev’rybody Wants To Be A Cat, Scales and Arpeggios, and Thomas O’Malley Cat.

The Aristocats Special Edition is chocked full of great bonus features, and is an especially wonderful treat if you are a super fan (like I am) of the Sherman Brothers!!! During The Lost Open featurette, Richard Sherman takes you through storyboards of a never-before-seen alternate beginning which introduces a deleted character and a deleted song How Much You Mean To Me and Court Me Slowly written and performed by the Sherman brothers. This song demo was one of the few times Richard and Robert ever sang together. And if your little one is anything like mine, they will be playing all of the songs over and over again! Zoe is especially fond of Ev’rybody Wants To Be A Cat! Also, The Aristocats Special Edition also has one of my most favorite Figaro shorts!!! Additional classic bonus features on The Aristocats Special Edition include the delightful deleted song, She Never Felt Alone and The Great Cat Family (Excerpt), which explores the history of cats.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6kVxV4O_dk&feature=share&list=PL2F52ED02924C2731

The Aristocats Special Edition full bonus features include…

– Oui Oui Marie Music Video

– Deleted Song – She Never Felt Alone: This deleted song, complete with animation, will tug at the heartstrings of any animal lover, as Duchess explains to Thomas O’ Malley why she must return to her beloved owner Madame Bonfamille. Richard Sherman discusses the song he co-wrote with his brother Robert, which captures the special relationship between a pet owner and their animal. It’s a moving sequence that will stir everyone’s fondest memories of their favorite pets.

– The Sherman Brothers: The Aristocats of Disney Songs: A tribute to the legendary Disney songwriting team of Robert and Richard Sherman, with particular emphasis on The Aristocats.

– The Great Cat Family (Excerpt): This animated excerpt tells the history of cats from ancient Egyptians to the present.

– The Classic Disney short Bath Day: Figaro has been freshly bathed and perfumed by Minnie when he meets up with Lucifer and his gang who chase him. In the ensuing fight, the gang is fooled into beating up Lucifer and making Figaro the winner. But the victor is soon put back in the tub by Minnie.

– Disney Song Selection:

  • The Aristocats
  • Scales and Arpeggios
  • Thomas O’Malley Cat
  • Ev’rybody Wants To Be A Cat

I am a huge The Aristocats fan, and it is such a treat to be able to share these with my family in the stunning Blu-Ray format! It really is amazing all the details that seem to pop out at you when you view it on Blu-Ray! The Aristocats Special Edition is a great addition to you Blu-Ray Disney Classics collection!!!

The Aristocats Special Edition

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LEGOLAND Brick Or Treat Offers Kid Friendly Halloween Fun

LEGOLAND Brick Or Treat Offers Kid Friendly Halloween Fun

LEGOLAND Brick or Treat

Pirates, witches, Dracula and even Mr. Potato Head made appearances at LEGOLAND® Florida this weekend during its first kid-friendly Halloween celebration of LEGOLAND Brick or Treat presented by Wells Fargo. This month-long spooky, kooky event takes place on Saturdays in October from 10am-9pm and Sundays in October from 10am to 5pm.

During LEGOLAND Brick or Treat, presented by Wells Fargo, Miniland USA has been transformed into a fun, haunted scavenger hunt for the whole family with the invasion of LEGO® Monster Fighters and their enemies. With extended hours on Saturdays, Miniland USA gets a bit more spooky when the sun goes down and the fog rolls in on these LEGO® cities.

This thrilling family event also features trick-or-treating along the brick-or-treat trail, a kids’ four category costume contest with brick-tastic prizes and a build your own Halloween themed LEGO® pumpkin model activity station.  Only found at LEGOLAND Florida, families can also check out the world’s largest LEGO Jack-O-Lantern made of 26,500 LEGO bricks and capture a great photo memory.

Activities Include:

  • LEGO® Pumpkin Build: Build your own LEGO Pumpkin at the model activity station in the Wells Fargo Fun Town 4D Theatre Plaza
  • LEGO® Monster Fighters Haunted Scavenger Hunt: Help the LEGO Monster Fighters capture monsters haunting the cities of Miniland USA in this haunted scavenger hunt. The whole family can enjoy searching for these creatures found in the over 30 million LEGO bricks that make up Miniland USA. With extended hours on Saturdays, Miniland USA gets a bit more spooky when the sun goes down and the fog rolls in on these LEGO cities.
  • Brick-or-Treat Trail: Trick-or-Treat along the Brick-or-Treat trail near the Pirates South Stadium for goodies, tasty treats and other fun surprises
  • Dance Party: Join us for our spooky Dance Party in the Haunted Miniland USA with a live DJ and dance games (Saturday only)
  • Kids Costume Contest: Show off your BOO-tiful costumes in the Kids Costume Contest in the Wells Fargo Fun Town 4D Theatre Plaza to win brick-tastic prizes like LEGO product and tickets to LEGOLAND Florida. Children may enter one of 4 specialized categories: Heroes & Villains, LEGO Monster Fighters, LEGO Themed, and most Creative.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJQLdkB6lkA&feature=share&list=UUKUmCfXogxpwTIU_us3tbWQ

This fun-filled Halloween celebration is made possible by our generous sponsors: Hurricane Grill & Wings®, LEGO ClubTM, LEGO® Monster Fighters, Old Navy®, PEPSICO®, Sam’s Club®, Sour Jacks, TECO® Energy, Webb’s Candy Shop, Wells Fargo® and Wendy’s®.

Along with LEGOLAND Brick or Treat, guests can still enjoy a full day of theme park fun with more than 50 rides, shows and attractions. Brick-or-Treat is included with normal park admission – No upcharge for events. The best way to experience LEGOLAND Florida for the best value is with the new LEGOLAND Florida Resident Pass. Pass members receive unlimited admission for 12 months to LEGOLAND Florida and the LEGOLAND Water Park, as well as all other Merlin US attractions (LEGOLAND California & Water Park, LEGOLAND Discovery Centers, Sea Life Centers and Madam Tussauds), free parking and 10% off food and merchandise with no black-out dates. A new monthly payment option of less than $10 per month is also available both at the front gate and online. The Monthly Payment Plan includes a down payment of $57.24 for and adult with monthly payment of $9.26 and $46.44 for child/senior with a monthly payment of only $7.51 (pre-tax).

LEGOLAND Brick or Treat
Saturdays and Sundays in October bring LEGOLAND Brick or Treat fun!!!

For the most current information on LEGOLAND Florida special events, operating schedule and to purchase tickets, visit www.LEGOLAND.com.

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SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, and Sesame Place Parks Have New Dining Options For Guests With Food Allergies

Vacationers with Food Allergies Now Have New and Personalized Dining Options at SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and Sesame Place Parks
SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, and Sesame Place Parks now catering to guests with Food Allergies!
As many as 15 million Americans suffer from a food allergy. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment has introduced this fall a new line of allergy-friendly dining initiatives for guests at its 10 parks including SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and Sesame Place. These initiatives range from personalized service to new menu options.
“We serve millions of guests each year and are committed to provide each a great experience. For families with allergen concerns, we understand how challenging it can be to safely dine out, especially while on vacation,” said Jim Atchison, President and Chief Executive Officer of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. “Our new initiatives ‘serve up’ a family experience that everyone can enjoy.”
The company partnered with the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN™) to educate and train more than 6,000 culinary employees to assist guests with allergen needs. With more than 22,000 members worldwide, FAAN is a trusted source of information, programs, and resources related to food allergy and anaphylaxis.
The new initiatives include:
  • Increased personal attention to ensure the safety of each meal. Park restaurant managers and supervisors will work one-on-one with guests and oversee the preparation of each allergen-friendly meal from start to finish. “Chef Cards,” filled out in advance by guests to outline the foods to avoid, are handed to a chef before the preparation of the meal.
  • All park restaurants are equipped and trained to take care of guests with allergen needs.
  • More menu options, ranging from gluten-free pizza to an allergen-friendly Shamu-shaped chocolate bar, enhance the experience for dining guests. For those on the go, the parks also provide prepackaged snacks such as cookies from companies that specialize in allergen-friendly foods including Divvies and Gluten Free to Go.
  • To help guests plan, detailed information on allergen-friendly services and helpful safety tips can be found online at each park’s web site. Guests can also download the Chef Cards and fill it out prior to their visit. At the parks, in-park educational handouts are available.
“We commend SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment for implementing a comprehensive food allergy training program, which we were pleased to help carry out,” said John Lehr, FAAN’s Chief Executive Officer. “Families often exhaustively research vacation options that will keep their loved ones with food allergies safe. SeaWorld has taken extra steps to educate its employees about the risks that families managing food allergies face on a daily basis.”
SeaWorld Food Allergies Sharks
For more information on the parks’ allergen-free efforts visit www.seaworld.comwww.buschgardens.com andwww.sesameplace.com. For additional resources about food allergies from FAAN, visit www.foodallergy.org.
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