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Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Join us at the LEGO® Clubhouse on October 9, 2010

and experience LEGO Universe – the first EVER Massively Multiplayer Online Game (MMOG) for LEGO fans.

Not able to make it to LEGOLAND California for this event?  You can also participate at your local LEGO Brand Store. Visit stores.LEGO.com to locate a LEGO Brand Store near you.

Purchase your copy of LEGO Universe beginning October 9 at LEGOLAND® California and receive EXCLUSIVE EARLY ACCESS.

About LEGO Universe:

    * Ages 10+
    * Protects the safety of people using the game, particularly children
    * Provides opportunities for members to create, explore, and have fun
    * Encourages interaction and user-generated content
    * Educates members about appropriate and safe online behavior
    * Allows parents to engage in their child’s play and encourages their dialogue
    * Paid subscription required to continue play. 1, 6 and 12 month subscription options available.
    * First Month Included!
    * No additional fees once subscription is paid.
    * Internet connection required.
    * Playable on PC and MAC.

To learn more about LEGO Universe visit: www.LEGOuniverse.com

GIANT PANDA SISTERS DEPART SAN DIEGO ZOO; SCIENTISTS GATHER VALUABLE DATA DURING THEIR STAY

The San Diego Zoo  said goodbye to two giant pandas this weekend, but not before collecting valuable scientific data about the panda's ability to hear.

     Early Saturday morning, 5-year-old Su Lin and her 3-year-old sister, Zhen Zhen, were accompanied by San Diego Zoo animal care and veterinary staff members on a plane trip to their new home at the Wolong Nature Reserve Giant Panda Bi Feng Xia Base in the People's Republic of China. The pandas will join an important conservation program where they will contribute to the preservation of this endangered species.

     Since the birth of these two pandas at the San Diego Zoo, scientists have been gathering facts about panda biology. As Su Lin and Zhen Zhen got older they became the backbone of cutting-edge research that is giving scientists insight into what a panda can hear and how man-made noises can affect the species' ability to communicate and reproduce.

     "Having Su Lin and Zhen Zhen at the San Diego Zoo was a great learning experience for us," said Megan Owen, San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research conservation program specialist. "Su Lin was the first giant panda we were able to collect comprehensive hearing data on. We also learned a lot from Zhen Zhen on what a young bear can hear."

     Asking a giant panda to notify its zookeeper when it hears a tone isn't as simple as raising a finger at the doctor's office. Zookeepers go through several steps to train the bears to first be comfortable in a sound-dampened enclosure, sit still to listen for the sound and then touch a target with its nose when the bear hears the tone played.

     This study will continue once Su Lin and Zhen Zhen's parents, Bai Yun and Gao Gao are trained to follow the same procedures. Gathering additional information from the two adult bears may help determine if a younger bear's hearing is different from older bears. Incorporating the male Gao Gao will also provide insight into possible differences between panda males and females.

     Giant pandas are on loan to the San Diego Zoo from the People's Republic of China to study this endangered species. As part of this long-term program, the San Diego Zoo is collaborating with the Chinese Academy of Science in studies of behavior, ecology, genetics and conservation of wild pandas living in the Foping Nature Reserve.

     The San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research is dedicated to generating, sharing and applying scientific knowledge vital to the conservation of animals, plants and habitats worldwide. The work of the Institute includes onsite research efforts at the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (historically referred to as Wild Animal Park), laboratory work at the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Center for Conservation Research, and international field programs involving more than 180 researchers working in 35 countries. In addition to the Beckman Center for Conservation Research, the Institute also operates the Anne and Kenneth Griffin Reptile Conservation Center, the Botanical Conservation Center, the Keauhou and Maui Hawaiian Bird Conservation Centers and the Desert Tortoise Conservation Center. The Zoo also manages the 1,800-acre San Diego Zoo Safari Park, which includes a 900-acre native species reserve, and the San Diego Zoo. The important conservation and science work of these entities is supported in part by The Foundation of the Zoological Society of San Diego.

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment Clean Up Beaches From Coast To Coast

Orlando, Fla. (Sept. 24, 2010) – During the International Coastal Cleanup this Saturday, Sept. 25, hundreds of employees of the 10 parks of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment -- including the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens parks -- will clean three U.S. coasts and tackle one of the most pervasive pollution problems threatening the world’s oceans, lakes and rivers: trash.

Park-sponsored cleanup events are planned in Florida , Virginia , Texas and California .

Trash is a constant threat to marine wildlife and their aquatic habitats. SeaWorld’s Rescue Team actively rescues manatees, sea lions, seals and sea turtles that have either become entangled in discarded fishing line or sick from ingesting human-made objects.

“Our animal experts see firsthand everyday the impact trash can have on wildlife,” said Jim Atchison, chief operating officer for SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment.” “The International Coastal Cleanup allows all of us to be part of the solution before it impacts animals.”

For more than a decade, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment has collaborated with the Ocean Conservancy in support of the International Coastal Cleanup – the world's largest volunteer cleanup event of its kind. Since 1986 thousands of volunteers from around the globe have cleared more than 100 million pounds of trash from 170,000 miles of shorelines, rivers, lakes and wetlands. Last year nearly 500,000 volunteers collected more than 7.4 million pounds of trash in 108 countries.

SeaWorld’s commitment to cleaning up oceans and waterways extends beyond the International Coastal Cleanup with additional year-round employee efforts targeting local beaches, shorelines, lakefronts and riverfronts.

For more information on International Coastal Cleanup, volunteers can visit www.seaworldparksblog.com or www.oceanconservancy.org.

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT’S HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS XX: TWENTY YEARS OF FEAR OPENS


All New Haunted Houses, Scarezones and Shows Mark the 20th Year of the Event
Gory Getaway Vacation Package Offers the Best Value to Experience the Nation’s
Best, Most Intense, Halloween Event

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 24, 2010) – A new age of darkness begins as Halloween Horror Nights XX: Twenty Years of Fear opens tonight at Universal Orlando Resort.  For 24 nights this fall, Universal Studios Florida transforms into a horror-filled realm where menacing creatures lurk and guests must confront their deepest and darkest fears.

Guests will experience a new level of extreme and intense Halloween entertainment. They will walk through the ruined gates of Hades, become prey to blood-craving zombies, tour a Parisian catacomb where they will feel the vengeance of the dead – and more.

The mastermind behind it all is Fear – he is everything Halloween Horror Nights has been and will become.  For 19 years, he’s been behind every paralyzing scare, every horrifying creature and every piercing scream at Halloween Horror Nights.  Now, Fear is emerging from the shadows to reign over all he has created.

Halloween Horror Nights XX features eight all-new haunted houses, six scarezones and two live shows.

Tickets are on sale now.  The Gory Getaway Vacation Package is the best way to experience all of the fright of Halloween Horror Nights plus all of the thrills of Universal Orlando Resort.


Halloween Horror Nights Vacation Package

On-Site Gory Getaway Vacation Package ~Entire package starts at $480 per adult, tax inclusive
   
·         3-night accommodations at one of Universal’s three award-winning hotels: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel or Loews Royal Pacific Resort

·         2-day ticket to both Universal Orlando theme parks – one park per day

·         Early park admission to Islands of Adventure

·         Complimentary Universal Express access to bypass the regular lines at select theme park rides and attractions during the day (an $87 value per person, per day)

·         1-night admission to Halloween Horror Nights

·         One 5”x7” souvenir photograph

Off-site Gory Getaway vacation packages are also available starting at $299 per adult, tax inclusive. Guests who have already purchased a vacation package through Universal Parks & Resorts Vacations can add Halloween Horror Nights tickets for as low as $34.99 plus tax per person.  Single-night event tickets can also be purchased for $74.99 plus tax.

Halloween Horror Nights runs September 24-25, September 30-October 1-3, 7-10, 14-17, 20-24 and 27-31.  For more information and to purchase tickets and vacation packages, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com. Due to the event’s popularity, tickets for weekend nights are expected to sell out and should be purchased well in advance.

For a detailed listing of each haunted house, scarezone and show featured at this year’s event, see below.


HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS XX: AN OVERVIEW
EIGHT ALL-NEW HORRIFYING HAUNTED HOUSES


Horror Nights: The Hallow’d Past – Halloween Horror Nights.  The name brings with it millions of tales, each filled with thousands of screams.  Now, you have the opportunity to travel into a realm where Horror Nights isn’t just an event, but a reality.

The Orfanage: Ashes to Ashes – Ashes to ashes, forever now dust.  For years she has existed in the shadows, never getting her due.  Misunderstood by all around her, she has had enough of her playthings at the Good Harvest Orphanage - now is the time for vengeance.  This burned out shell contains the souls of the forgotten and the lost who all scream one name: Cindy.

Hades: The Gates of Ruin – Hades bids you welcome.  Make your way into the Underworld, and come face to face with the most terrifying creatures of legend as you cross through the Gates of Ruin.

Psychoscarepy: Echoes of Shadybrook – The truth, as they say, is far stranger than fiction, and in this instance they happen to be correct.  Although Shadybrook’s doors have indeed been closed for the last 15 years, the place is still very much alive with all of the criminally insane souls that have ever walked its halls.

Havoc: Dogs of War – Ten years ago, the Shadowcreek Enterprise was tasked with developing an elite corp of soldiers.  They succeeded. Through an inhalant that includes a compound of testosterone, adrenaline, and other anesthetics, Shadow Creek’s latest run of volunteer test subjects are ready for inspection.  The project name: HAVOC. The subjects are known simply as the Dogs of War.

Catacombs: Black Death Rising – During a plague of Paris and Marseilles in 1534, thousands died due to an undisclosed viral outbreak.  A group of doctors took it upon themselves to quarantine the most infected citizens of the city.  They had no way of knowing that the townspeople would betray them, sealing them into their doom.  They have been unable to escape for almost five hundred years.  Now that the dead inside have found a way out, they are rising to take their centuries old vengeance on any living being that dares to enter the Catacombs.

Zombiegeddon – The United States government has re-taken the continental United States, and is actively engaged in clearing the remaining infested pockets of Canada.  The government also licenses and sanctions private companies to capture “un-live” subjects and use them as practical targets during these training sessions.  Dozens of independent training consultant “companies” spring up, promising the best training that money can buy...and then there’s ZAP...The Zombie Awareness Program.

Legendary Truth: The Wyandot Estate – The Spirit Seekers have come up with a machine that actually gathers spirits toward it.  The group has decided to do a live broadcast from inside one of the most reportedly “haunted” sites in the entire United States, The Wyandot Estate, built in the 1920’s in Carey, Ohio by the entrepreneur Malcolm Wyandot and his wife Lydia.  The house has been rumored to be haunted since Malcolm brutally killed 13 dinner guests and his wife Lydia before committing suicide on October 30, 1929.  The team is about to get more than they bargained for as the murdered hear their call and answer with terrible violence.

SIX INESCAPABLE SCAREZONES

HHN: 20 Years of Fear – Step into the shadows of the last Twenty Years of Fear.  Move toward the lantern, and encounter the most frightening characters of Halloween Horror Nights past.

Fear Revealed – The souls of Chaos, Death, Sacrifice, Mythos and Vengeance — He created them and gave them terror.  Each with a part to play, they fulfilled their tasks.  Their malice provided him bone, their rage gave him blood, and their terror fulfilled his soul.  What has been 19 cycles for some have been eons for him.  He’s waited patiently for the final piece, and now on the 20th cycle… HE IS REVEALED.

Zombie Gras – This Mardi Gras parade has gone severely off course.  Infected by the North American zombie infestation, the undead walk among us, searching for their next meal...

Esqueleto Muerte – Revel in the seductive taunts of Death as you wind through a glowing skeletal nightmare.

Saws ‘n Steam – Enormous trenches in the earth’s crust have opened below its vast oceans, exposing them to intense heat.  Steam power is essential to the inhabitants of New Yorkshire, but diminishing oceans have put the city in jeopardy, forcing the citizens to evil lengths.  Beware upon entering the city, as the water in your body is now a coveted resource.  And the citizens will stop at nothing to get it.

The Coven – The Cult of the Raven has unsettled spirits, and its Sirens are screaming throughout the witches’ realm.  As you creep past their obelisk, beware their spells.  For those who don’t believe will be condemned to death.

TWO OUTRAGEOUS LIVE SHOWS

Bill & Ted’s Excellent Halloween Adventure – Party on as those two most excellent dudes return to skewer the biggest names in entertainment and pop culture.

Brian Brushwood: Menace and Malice – Experience two realms of bizarre magic by one of the country’s most outrageous illusionists.

Universal Orlando Releases New Video of Fear - the Force Behind Halloween Horror Nights XX

Universal Orlando has released new video of Fear – the force behind Halloween Horror Nights XX: Twenty Years of Fear.  Guests will face Fear himself when HHN XX opens tomorrow, featuring eight all-new haunted houses, new scarezones and live shows.

For 19 years, Fear’s been in the shadows – controlling every scareactor and every haunt that guests have confronted at Halloween Horror Nights.  Tomorrow he will finally reign over what he has created, but, what has been the tradition of the past will be forever changed.

Click here to face Fear.

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Winner of the ‘Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights-Rob Zombie Film Competition’ Announced as the Entertainment Capital of L.A.SM Prepares to Unleash 17-Night Halloween Horror Nights Event Opening September 24

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., Sept. 21 -- Universal Studios HollywoodSM announces the winner of the “Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights® -Rob Zombie Film Competition,” which offered filmmakers an opportunity to have their scariest short film judged by a panel led by the multi-media horror auteur Rob Zombie.

“Jasper,” submitted by Elizabeth Schieffer of Dallas , Texas , was selected as this year’s winner by Internet voters who picked their favorite among a field of ten finalist films.

Prospective filmmakers were invited to submit short films up to three minutes in length. The panel of horror industry professionals, which included Zombie, Marc Graser (Senior Writer, Variety), John Murdy (Creative Director, Universal Studios Hollywood / "Halloween Horror Nights") and Matt Cowan (Getty Images editor and former juror for the Sundance Film Festival ) narrowed the field to ten.

“I have been huge fan of Rob Zombie’s work for a long time. Just to be able to get a project that I personally worked on to be seen by his eyes is a great honor,” said Schieffer. “I feel Zombie has brought something new to the horror genre with House of 1000 Corpses and the Halloween series. I hope that one day, I will be able to do the same. “

Jasper will be rewarded with a premiere showing on Chiller TV, a posting on SyFy.com, a $1,000 cash prize and Schieffer earns a trip for two to the opening night of Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood.

The 2010 “Halloween Horror Nights” event at Universal Studios Hollywood will offer spine-chilling new mazes based upon the horror genre’s most compelling characters. Rob Zombie and other top artists collaborated with Universal Studios Hollywood in the creation of new mazes, “scare zones” and backlot experiences.  

Guests at this year’s Halloween Horror Nights® event at Universal Studios HollywoodSM will have the exclusive opportunity to board trams bound directly for the blockbuster new ride, “King Kong 360 3-D” created by Peter Jackson. For the first time, round-trip “Skull Island Express” tram rides are being offered only during “Halloween Horror Nights” as an added feature to the nighttime event and will be separate from the park’s famous “Terror Tram” backlot attraction.

            The theme park’s favorite thrill-ride attractions will also remain open for “Halloween Horror Nights” as well, many with menacing twists.  Favorites include “The Simpsons RideTM,” “Revenge of the MummySM – The Ride” and “Jurassic Park® In the Dark.”

            Halloween Horror Nights will begin on Friday, September 24 continue on consecutive weekends and selected weekday nights through Sunday, October 31.  Event dates are: September 24, 25 and October 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16,17, 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30, 31. The event will begin nightly at 7 p.m.; closing hours vary by night throughout the event and are posted on the event’s website. Tickets are now on sale www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com/hollywood including a new “Killer Deal Nights” option, providing discounts of up to $25 for selected dates.

Updates on “Halloween Horror Nights” are available at HalloweenHorrorNights.com and also on Twitter and Facebook, as Creative Director John Murdy reveals a running chronicle of exclusive information.  Fans are invited to follow John Murdy on Twitter at: Twitter.com/HorrorNights or via Facebook at: “Halloween Horror Nights - Hollywood (Official).”  

Fairytale Town's 24th Annual Safe & Super Halloween: Monster Mash

Friday, Saturday & Sunday
October 22, 23, 24, 2010
5PM to 9PM

Dracula has taken up residence inside King Arthur's Castle at Fairytale Town as apart of Fairytale Town's Fang-Tastic Fun line-up for its 24th Annual Safe & Super Halloween.  Many of Fairytale Town's storybook sets will be transformed and favorite classic non-scary monsters will appear, to help set this year's theme: The Monster Mash.

Tickets are on sale now for the 24th Annual Safe & Super Halloween. You'll enjoy visiting 17 candy stations scattered throughout the park. Children can participate in the Costume Parade, hands-on activities, and free photos in Dr. Frankenstein's Laboratory will be available courtesy of Smile Business Products. Puppet Art Theater will also be performing  in the Children's Theater each night at 6PM, 7PM & 8 PM (Tickets $1 member/$2 nonmember).

Three nights only to visit this unique Halloween destination at Fairytale Town This event is made possible by a generous sponsorship from Smile Business Products. For tickets and details visit us online at www.fairytaletown.org or call 916-808-7462.

Ticket Prices
Advance: $7 members/$10 non-members.
Beginning October 22: $9 members/ $12 for nonmembers.
Children 1 & Under are free.

What:  24th Annual Safe & Super Halloween: Monster Mash
When: Friday, Saturday & Sunday, October 22, 23 & 24, 2010
Time:  5PM to 9PM 
Cost:  Advance Tickets: $7 for members/$10 nonmembers
Beginning October 22: $9 for members/$12 nonmembers
Children 1 and under are free.
Where: Fairytale Town, 3901 Land Park Drive, Sacramento CA 95822
Contact Phone: 916-808-7462
Contact e-mail: mail@fairytaletown.org
Website: www.fairytaletown.org

Monday, September 20, 2010

CREATE NEW WILD HOLIDAY TRADITIONS AT THE SAN DIEGO ZOO

Celebrate the Season with the Animals Dec.10-Jan.2

            Many of the familiar holiday traditions will get a wild-animal twist during the San Diego Zoo’s Jungle Bells celebration. During the three-week event, the Zoo will be transformed with a holiday makeover, and animal magnetism will take holiday traditions to the next level.

           Jungle Bells runs Dec. 10, 2010, through Jan. 2, 2011, and will feature flurries of snow, the twinkling of lights and the melodious sounds of a hand-bell choir. During the celebration, grounds will stay open until 8 p.m., three hours past the usual closing time. (The only day the celebration will close early during the three weeks is Dec. 24, as Santa said he had to leave early that day.)

            Highlights of the celebration will include the “Wizards of Winter,” aka the SPLASH painters, who will create holiday animals twice nightly in Wegeforth Bowl, and the acrobatic Jumpin’ Jammin’ Elves, who use a trampoline in Urban Jungle to launch themselves into the sky where they twist and flip to holiday tunes. Guests can also get their noses painted just like Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer.

Among the many ways that holiday traditions will get wild during Jungle Bells: lights will be shaped like animals, Candy Cane Lane will lead to the Treehouse "Blitzen" Light Experience, and Santa’s workshop will be steps from snakes, lizards and turtles. Skyfari, which takes guests over the Zoo, will be updated with a Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer theme, the “Reindeer Express” bus will take guests on a tour of the lights, and Dr. Zoolittle’s show in the Children’s Zoo will be an animal play on “ ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.” The Zoo’s talented chefs will be cooking up some holiday treats to put guests’ taste buds in a holiday spirit as well!

             For those looking for the wildest of holiday Zoo experiences, there will be “Animal Magic for the Holidays” – special surprise encounters in Discovery Outpost with our animal-world friends – from 4 to 8 p.m. daily.

Jungle Bells is free with paid admission to the San Diego Zoo.

HONOREES ANNOUNCED for Universal Studios Hollywood's Halloween Horror Nights 2010 "Eyegore Awards!

Filmmaker Eli Roth, Christopher Lloyd, Horror Icon Sid Haig, and “SAW” Stars Betsy Russell and Gina Holden to Receive “Eyegore Awards” at Universal Studios Hollywood as Theme Park Celebrates Opening Night of “Halloween Horror Nights” On September 24

Universal City, CA— Filmmaker/actor Eli Roth, Christopher Lloyd, veteran horror icon, Sid Haig and “Saw” stars Betsy Russell and Gina Holden will be the honorees at the 2010 “Eyegore Awards,” which will serve as the opening night event at Universal StudiosSM Halloween Horror Nights®, beginning its 17-night run on Friday, Sept. 24.

            Corey Feldman returns as host of the 2010 ceremony and presenters will include Rob and Sheri Zombie, filmmaker Tobe Hooper, “True Blood” vampire Mariana Klaveno and “Saw’s” Costas Mandylor.  Excerpts from the ceremony will be shown on the website, www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com/hollywood.

            Wearing multiple hats—director, screenwriter, actor and producer—Eli Roth has emerged as one of the top artists in the horror genre. As a director and producer, his ”Hostel” films, “Cabin Fever,” and most recently, “The Last Exorcism,” have made his name familiar to all genre fans. And as an actor, he made an indelible impression by wielding a lethal baseball bat in Quentin Tarantino’s Oscar®-winning film, “Inglorious Basterds.”

            Since making an unforgettable film debut in “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” three-time Emmy Award®-winner Christopher Lloyd has grown into a screen legend through his roles in TV’s “Taxi,” as a Klingon in “Star Trek III” and as professor Doc Brown in the ”Back to the Future” movies. He portrayed Uncle Fester in “The Addams family” movie adaptation and, most recently, appeared in “Piranha.”

            Sid Haig has appeared in over 50 films and 350 television shows, working with such iconic directors as Roger Corman and Quentin Tarantino. His horror genre performances in Rob Zombie’s “House of 1000 Corpses,” “The Devil’s Rejects” and “Halloween” have earned awards at the Fangoria-Chainsaw and Spike TV Scream Awards ceremonies.

            Betsy Russell has starred as Jill Tuck, aka “Mrs. Jigsaw” in six movies in the “Saw” series. She recently starred in Syfy’s movie, “Mandrake.”

            Gina Holden has carved a niche in the horror genre via starring roles in Lifetime’s “Blood Ties” and CBS-TV’s “Harper’s Island .” She'll soon be seen in "Saw 3D" and is also known to big-screen film audiences through her starring roles in the Flash Gordon series.

Previous Eyegore Award recipients have included Alice Cooper, Patricia Arquette, Janet Leigh, Roger Corman, Jennifer Tilly, Joss Whedon, Rob Zombie, Karen Black, Clive Barker, Tobin Bell, Rick Baker, Julie Benz, Shawnee Smith, Sherri Moon Zombie, Tobe Hooper, Bill Moseley and Corey Feldman.

            Universal Studios Hollywood and Rob Zombie have partnered this year to sponsor the "Rob Zombie-Halloween Horror Nights Competition," offering filmmakers an opportunity to have their scariest short film rewarded with a broadcast on Syfy, a $1,000 cash prize and a trip for two to the Eyegore Awards ceremony, where their film will be honored as part of the event.  The ten finalist films can be viewed at  http://www.halloweenhorrornights.com/

            Halloween Horror Nights will begin on September 24 and continue on consecutive weekends and selected weekday nights through Sunday, October 31.  Event dates are: September 24, 25 and October 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16,17, 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30, 31. The event will begin nightly at 7 p.m.; closing hours vary by night throughout the event.  Tickets are now on sale at www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com/hollywood including a new “Killer Deal Nights” option, providing discounts of up to $25 for selected dates.

Blockin’ Around the Christmas Tree at LEGOLAND® California!

Month-long Holly Jolly Holidays Celebration Begins Nov. 29 with Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

CARLSBAD, Calif.   (Sept. 20, 2010) – It’s hard to believe that the holiday season is just around the corner, but LEGOLAND® California is gearing up for Holly Jolly Holidays presented by Western® Dental. The holiday celebration kicks off Nov. 29 when a celebrity guest lights the world’s tallest LEGO® Christmas tree in the annual tree lighting ceremony and continues through Dec. 31 when the season concludes with Kids’ New Year’s Eve.

The entire theme park transforms into a holiday wonderland during Holly Jolly Holidays which features festive entertainment every weekend including carolers and strolling musicians; nightly fireworks Dec. 26 through 30 and an enchanting holiday musical.

The giant LEGO Christmas tree has become the centerpiece of the holiday season at
LEGOLAND California. It stands more than 30-feet-tall, is made of more than 245,000 forest green DUPLO® bricks and surrounded by packages and LEGO friends the whole family can enjoy. In nightly tree lighting ceremonies Dec. 2 through Dec. 24, a lucky child will be randomly selected to help pull the switch that lights up the LEGO Christmas tree.

“Let it Snow”, an enchanting mini musical returns with a holiday story that is sure to warm guests’ hearts. Share in the spirit of the holidays with 10-year-old Emily as she wishes for some holiday magic! Emily’s toys spring to life in a musical celebration as they help her realize her Yuletide wish – snow! Will the weather forecast change in southern California just for Emily? The 20 minute musical holiday show features the Park’s signature song, “Season of Imagination.” “Let it Snow” runs daily from Nov. 20 through Dec. 31 in the Play Town Theater.

No holiday celebration would be complete without Santa and his sleigh. At LEGOLAND California, Santa, his sleigh and two reindeer are made entirely out of LEGO bricks. The festive display stands 7 feet tall, made of more than 51,100 bricks and provides a unique photo opportunity for families. Mililand U.S.A. is also transformed into a winter wonderland with holiday scenes throughout.

The holiday season concludes with Kids’ New Year’s Eve on Dec. 31 when midnight strikes at 6 p.m. in a Times Square-style party just for kids. Justin Roberts and the Not Ready for Naptime players return, just after releasing their critically acclaimed children’s album Jungle Gym.

All Holly Jolly Holidays activities are included in the price of LEGOLAND California admission ($67 for adults, $57 for kids). For more information, visit  www.LEGOLAND.com or call (760) 918-LEGO.

VIDEO NEWS RELEASE WHALE OF A FIND UNEARTHED AT SAN DIEGO ZOO

    In 2009, the San Diego Zoo debuted The Harry and Grace Steele Elephant Odyssey featuring fossil replicas from the Pleistocene epoch, but on Thursday it unearthed a genuine 24-foot-long whale fossil while digging for a storm water tank.
     A construction crewing using an excavator hit a hard spot when digging through fine grain sand, known in the paleontology world as "San Diego formation" stone.  A San Diego Natural History Museum paleontologist was already on site, assigned to the project as a precautionary measure. When he heard the excavator strike a solid item, he investigated and discovered a 3-million-year-old whale.
     Sarah Siren, San Diego Natural History Museum paleontological field manager, says finding an intact skull along with the vertebrae is unique. The whale appears to be well preserved, giving the team hope they can identify which species of baleen whale was unearthed.
     The skull and other large pieces will be encapsulated in plaster jackets while smaller pieces, including vertebrae are being cleaned with brushes and boxed up to be moved to the museum's laboratory to analyze the find.
     The 100-acre San Diego Zoo is dedicated to the conservation of endangered species and their habitats. The organization focuses on conservation and research work around the globe, educates millions of individuals a year about wildlife and maintains accredited horticultural, animal, library and photo collections. The Zoo also manages the 1,800-acre San Diego Zoo Safari Park (historically referred to as the Wild Animal Park), which includes a 900-acre native species reserve, and the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research. The important conservation and science work of these entities is supported in part by The Foundation of the Zoological Society of San Diego.

Sunday, September 19, 2010

BUSCH GARDENS LAUNCHES NEW PHASE OF TEASER CAMPAIGN FOR 2011 ATTRACTION

Five-week “code word game” invites fans to find hidden clues and unlock more information

TAMPA, Fla. (September 16, 2010) – Amidst the latest round of internet rumors as to what Busch Gardens Tampa Bay may be building in Crown Colony Plaza, the adventure park launched today the next chapter in a teaser campaign that began early this summer.

Starting today, guests who log on to www.BuschGardens2011.com will have the opportunity to enter code words and unlock their first glimpse as to what the new attraction will look like. Each week, the site will offer another clue will be shared as to where to find the next code word. The first code word, “CHASE,” was shared on the park’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/BuschGardensTampaBay) this afternoon.

The BuschGardens2011.com site launched in June with a series of short videos highlighting attributes of the new attraction – including speed, power and agility – which could also be accessed by guests with smartphones via QR codes on the park’s construction walls. In August, the site began featuring a series of video messages by Busch Gardens officials offering hints about the theme and scope of the project.

This third phase – the most interactive yet for fans – will lead up to the official attraction announcement, which is scheduled for mid-October.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

“VAMPYRE: CASTLE OF THE UNDEAD (BLOOD SECRETS OF THE IRON GUARD)” TO BE PUBLISHED BY UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD IN CONJUNCTION WITH 2010 “HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS”

PUBLICATION WILL BECOME THE FIRST GRAPHIC NOVELLA TO BE INSPIRED BY A HALLOWEEN THEME PARK MAZE


Universal City, California -- “Vampyre: Castle of the Undead (Blood Secrets of the Iron Guard),” a new graphic novella created by artist Patrick Ian Moore, will be published by Universal Studios HollywoodSM in conjunction with the 2010 Halloween Horror Nights® event, where horror legends come to life.

            The new graphic novella –the first to be inspired by a Halloween theme park maze--will be serialized on the official Halloween Horror Nights website.  A limited number of collectors edition books will be published and available to guests attending the event on selected nights.

            “Vampyre: Castle of the Undead (Blood Secrets of the Iron Guard),” tells a modern tale of the vampires of Wallachia, Romania, the medieval realm of Vlad the Impaler, who inspired the 19th century Dracula legend. With drawings and design by Moore, the book was based on a maze developed by “Halloween Horror Nights” Creative Director John Murdy with a story by Max Nichts.

             Patrick Ian Moore is a Hollywood-based cartoonist, painter, actor, and performance artist whose cartoons and illustrations have been published in magazines, fanzines, books and alternative newspapers and whose paintings have been exhibited in Southern California galleries. He studied improv at IO West and co-founded Hammerspace Improv and IO Book Club. He performs regularly in the Hollywood area.

Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood begins Friday, September 24 and will continue on consecutive weekends and selected weekday nights beginning Friday, September 24 through Halloween, Sunday, October 31.  Event dates are: September 24, 25 and October 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16,17, 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30, 31. The event will begin nightly at 7 p.m.; closing hours vary by night throughout the event.  Tickets are on sale now with special deals on “Killer Deal Nights” offering up to $25 off regular prices.

            In addition to “Vampyre: Castle of the Undead,” Halloween Horror Nights mazes will include “A Nightmare On Elm Street™:  Never Sleep Again,” “Friday the 13th™: Kill, Jason, Kill!,” Rob Zombie’s House of 1000 Corpses: In 3D Zombievison” plus “Saw:  Game On.”  Among the six “Scare Zones” is a new “La Llorona” experience, based upon the timeless Mexican legend.

            “Chucky’s Revenge” – an all-new “Terror Tram” experience -- plus an express visit to the new blockbuster attraction, “King Kong 360 3D” Created by Peter Jackson and an all-new “Bill and Ted’s Excellent Halloween Adventure” show will also be featured within the event.

            Universal Studios Hollywood’s favorite thrill-ride attractions will also remain open for “Halloween Horror Nights” nocturnal affair, many with menacing twists.  Favorites include “Kong Kong 3603D,”  “The Simpsons Ride™,” “Revenge of the MummySM – The Ride” and “Jurassic Park® In the Dark.”

Updates on “Halloween Horror Nights” will be available at HalloweenHorrorNights.com and also on Twitter and Facebook, as Creative Director John Murdy reveals a running chronicle of exclusive information.  Fans are invited to follow John Murdy on Twitter at: Twitter.com/HorrorNights or via Facebook at: “Halloween Horror Nights - Hollywood (Official).”

COUPLES CAN ENTER TO WIN THE WEDDING OF THEIR NIGHTMARES AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT’S HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS

New Halloween Horror Nights Wedding Packages Feature Chainsaw Drill Team Wedding Guests, Hearse Ride For Bride and Groom Through the Event and More

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 15, 2010) – A cold fog creeps around you in the darkness as you exchange your vows on the creaky steps of a haunted house. The sound of growling chainsaws and screeches erupt from your “scareactor” wedding guests, as you promise “till un-death do us part.” This wedding of your nightmares is now a reality with new customizable and highly-anticipated Halloween Horror Nights wedding packages. And, Universal Orlando Resort is giving away the first wedding to one lucky couple looking to tie the “noose.”

Couples can enter the Halloween Horror Nights wedding giveaway contest by submitting a Halloween-themed photo of themselves to hhnwed@universalorlando.com. A complete list of rules and contest details can be found at http://bit.ly/a4hEx1. All entries are due by 12:00 p.m. EST on Monday, September 20, 2010.

These new Halloween Horror Nights themed wedding packages offer customizable options including, a hearse ride through the event and “his” and “hers” coffins for the bride and groom. Reception menu items include “Deadly Romance” spring rolls, “Bride of Frankenstein Lady Fingers” stuffed jalapenos and “Creepy Wellingtons.”

Guests can plan their wedding during Halloween Horror Nights XX at Universal Studios Florida, which runs from September 24-25 through September 30-October 1-3, 7-10, 14-17, 20-24 and 27-31. This year’s event features all-new haunted houses, inescapable scarezones, hundreds of frightening “scareactors” and live shows.

Universal Orlando also offers customized weddings at more than 25 unique locations around the resort, so guests can say “I do” with an iconic New York City backdrop or in an ancient Mayan courtyard. With award-winning catering, unlimited entertainment options and an experienced event team, Universal Orlando has everything needed to create an extraordinary wedding day.

For more information or to start planning, visit UniversalOrlandoWeddings.com or call 1-888-331-9108.

JOIN THE COUNT FOR A MONSTER BIRTHDAY BASH AT BUSCH GARDENS

TAMPA, Fla. (Sept. 15, 2010) — This Halloween, families can celebrate The Count’s birthday at a special Halloween party on Oct. 9 at Sesame Street Safari of Fun at Busch Gardens. Your child can do the Monster Mash, meet the Count, parade in costume and enjoy a spooky breakfast or lunch. Breakfast is from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.; lunch is from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Breakfast and lunch include delicious food served buffet-style, and both menus offer items sure to please both parents and kids alike. A full menu is available at SesameStreetSafariOfFun.com, under the Dine With Elmo link.

Breakfast is $18 for adults and $15 for children. Lunch is $23 for adults and $17 for children, and one 6x8 photo is included per family. Pass members receive a 10 percent discount. Admission to the park is required, but not included.

Note: Children are permitted to wear costumes during the dine, but costumes may need to be removed in order to safely go on rides.

To make your family’s reservation, visit SesameStreetSafariofFun.com and click on Dine With Elmo to book the Oct. 9 dine, or call 1-888-800-5447.

Sesame Street Safari of Fun is an all-new, Sesame Street-themed sunny, funny play land at Busch Gardens filled with kid-size rides, cool water fun, memorable adventures and shows that celebrate the spirit of Africa. Take a dive on Air Grover, the new junior coaster for parents and kids to ride together. Splash in Bert & Ernie’s Watering Hole, a wet adventure filled with bubblers, geysers, jets, dumping buckets and more. A photography studio offers photos with characters daily, and a musical stage show brings safari tales to life.

Busch Gardens has fun for the whole family to enjoy all day. With thrilling rides, award-winning shows and exotic up-close animal encounters, Busch Gardens provides unrivaled excitement for guests of every age.

VIDEO NEWS RELEASE RARE TORTOISE NAMED FOR SAN DIEGO ZOO THRIVES

A recent visit by San Diego Zoo officials to the Galápagos National Park included an encounter with a rare reptile that lived at the San Diego Zoo for many years. The male tortoise, named Diego, was sent to be part of the breeding program at the National Park in the Galápagos Islands in the 1970s.

     "Diego is one of only two male tortoises of the species native to the Española Islands in the breeding program," said Rick Schwartz, San Diego Zoo ambassador. "As such, he has made a significant contribution to the continued survival of his species."

     Animal care staff at the Galápagos National Park indicate that Diego is responsible for a significant number of Española tortoises that have hatched over the years.  The breeding and conservation program at the Galápagos National Park is a significant part of the effort to save these critically endangered species.

     "The captive breeding program is important, not just for the National Park of the Galápagos, but for the conservation of tortoises overall," said Washington Tapia, sub-director of the Galápagos National Park.  "In our history, we have seen tortoise populations severely reduced, and reproduction for this species occurs slowly.  Without the help of this program it would be impossible to recover this species."

  The 100-acre San Diego Zoo is dedicated to the conservation of endangered species and their habitats. The organization focuses on conservation and research work around the globe, educates millions of individuals a year about wildlife and maintains accredited horticultural, animal, library and photo collections. The Zoo also manages the 1,800-acre San Diego Zoo's Wild Animal Park, which includes a 900-acre native species reserve, and the San Diego Zoo's Institute for Conservation Research.

Wild Adventures Celebrates Halloween Day and Night


All-New Phobia Set in Real Blackwater Swamp
Daytime Kid-O-Ween Activities Await Guests This October

Valdosta, GA – Wild Adventures Theme Park is the area’s number one place to experience Halloween this October, with the family-friendly Kid-O-Ween and the fear-filled Phobia.  During the day, Kid-O-Ween returns with more interactive activities for families to enjoy.  When it gets dark, Phobia frightens with all-new haunted experiences for scare seekers.  Both fall events are included with park admission, a 2010 Season Pass or a 2011 Season Pass, available beginning October 1.

Kid-O-Ween Celebrates the Sillier Side of Halloween

Now in its second year, Kid-O-Ween is a family-friendly way to celebrate Halloween in addition to the park’s rides, animals and entertainment. Children select their very own magical pumpkin in Monty’s Magical Pumpkin Forest or doodle on a giant coloring mural, both new for this year.  The event includes fall themed interactive activities, such as Monster Mash Dance Party, a hay bale maze, trick-or-treating, and a craft station to inspire even the smallest goblin.

Kid-O-Ween runs Saturdays and Sundays in October, 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.  This event is appropriate for guests of all ages.

All-New Phobia Engulfs the Swamp

The all-new Phobia is the only Halloween experience of its kind set in a blackwater swamp.  The tea colored waters of the swamp create the perfect haunting environment.  With the addition of The Fearmaker, a demented character, Phobia is the ultimate haunted experience.

The Fearmaker, the embodiment of all things evil, has crept into the park to wreak havoc, bringing guests face to face with their worst nightmares.  Guests wander through a single, horrifying pathway facing their most terrible fears.  They will either escape the Fearmaker’s deadly grip or join his entourage.

Phobia runs Friday and Saturday evenings, 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. in October. Some guests, including children under 12, may find some of the experiences or images disturbing and should not visit Phobia.  Select rides will operate during Phobia.  For more gruesome details on Phobia, visit www.wildadventures.com/phobia.

2011 Season Pass On Sale October 1

Everyone who purchases a season pass in October gets a gold upgrade free.  At $59.99, the Gold Pass saves an average family of four $160 off of peak season pricing.  Gold includes free parking, miniature golf and go-karts.  Passholders also receive three additional months free as they are invited to use their passes for the remainder of 2010 including admission to popular park events like Kid-o-ween, Phobia and WA’s special Christmas days.

2011 Season Passes are offered online (www.wildadventures.com), via phone 229-219-7080 or at the park.  Passes must be purchased by October 31, 2010 to receive special gold benefits.

DANCE, DANCE, DANCE ALONG WITH ZOE AND HER SESAME STREET FRIENDS

You’re invited to Zoe’s Birthday Party Sept. 25
at Sesame Street Safari of Fun at Busch Gardens

TAMPA, Fla. (Sept. 1, 2010) —Celebrate Zoe’s birthday along with her best friend Elmo and their Sesame Street friends on Saturday, Sept. 25 at Busch Gardens’ Sesame Street Safari of Fun. The dance party is included with a lunch with the characters from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Wear your dancing shoes so your family can join Zoe in her favorite pastime. Also enjoy delicious food served buffet-style and character meet and greets with the beloved Sesame Street characters. The menu includes items sure to please both parents and kids alike. For the full menu, visit SesameStreetSafariofFun.com, then click on Dine With Elmo.

One 6x8 photo including Zoe is included per family. Lunch is $23 for adults and $17 for children. Pass members receive a 10 percent discount. Admission to the park is required but not included.

To make your family’s reservation, visit SesameStreetSafariofFun.com and click on Dine With Elmo to book the Sept. 25 dine, or call 1-888-800-5447.

Sesame Street Safari of Fun is an all-new, Sesame Street-themed sunny, funny play land at Busch Gardens filled with kid-size rides, cool water fun, memorable adventures and shows that celebrate the spirit of Africa. Take a dive on Air Grover, the new junior coaster for parents and kids to ride together. Splash in Bert & Ernie’s Watering Hole, a wet adventure filled with bubblers, geysers, jets, dumping buckets and more. A photography studio offers photos with characters daily, and a musical stage show brings safari tales to life.

Busch Gardens has fun for the whole family to enjoy all day. With thrilling rides, award-winning shows and exotic up-close animal encounters, Busch Gardens provides unrivaled excitement for guests of every age.

Monday, September 13, 2010

Sandy Graham Memorial Service at Knott's


The date for the Sandy memorial at Knott's Berry Farm has been scheduled for Monday, October 4th.
Follow on Facebook or see details below.
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=151525161536979

Monday, October 4, 2010
7:00pm - 8:00pm
Charles M. Schultz Theater, Knott's Berry Farm
8039 Beach Blvd.
Buena Park, CA

You are invited to a celebration of the life of Sandy Graham. This is an open invite to all who knew Sandy, family, friends and fans, so please feel free to share this invitation. Please be sure to RSVP so that we can ensure the venue meets the capacity of those attending.

Please wear purple and black, as those were Sandy's favorite colors!

Out of respect for the venue, the following rules will apply:
- NO CHILDREN under 18 will be permitted to attend.
- NO SMOKING will be permitted inside the park.
- NO ALCOHOL or illegal substances will be permitted inside the park.
- Please DO NOT BRING loose glitter into the venue.

Parking will be permitted in the grass lot next to the employee lot, located on Western between La Palma and Crescent. Lot will open at 5:30pm. Please enter through the Western gates. Gates will open at 6:30pm. Service will begin promptly at 7:00pm, so please be on time.

If you have pictures you would like to share, please email them to magicstitches101@gmail.com
If you have any questions about the ceremony, please email them to sandymemorial@gmail.com

Camp Spooky Takes Shape as Halloween Haunt Takes Over

HAUNT IS BACK

All you fear is here! Starting September 24, it all comes back more terrifying than your worst nightmare for 27 nights! Halloween Haunt transforms the family friendly Knott’s Berry Farm into a 160-acre living horror movie filled with 13 chilling mazes, seven hair-raising shows, three horrific scare zones, and over 1,000 monsters roaming for their next victim.

Buy tickets now at www.knotts.com.

Season Pass Holders keep an eye out for exclusive money-saving coupons to Knott's Scary Farm.

Snoopy's Costume Party

Looking for something tamer for little ones? Look no further, Snoopy's Costume Party in Camp Spooky has the right amount of Halloween cheer without the fear! Come in costume and join the parade every Saturday and Sunday, 10am - 5pm. And of course there will be trick or treating.

Click here to find out more!

2011 Knott's Berry Farm Season Pass

2010 Season Passholders can now renew online for just $59.99!!  Extend the fun for another year with the click of a mouse. Don’t have a season pass yet, not to worry, new 2011 Season Passes are coming soon. Starting November 1st get your Knott's Berry Farm Season Pass for only $59.99. Or get a Gold Pass which includes Knott’s Berry Farm and all 3 Soak City locations for only $84.99 (Regular, Junior or Senior). Or go for the Platinum Pass for $160 (Regular) and $90 (Junior and Senior) which includes admission to Knott’s Berry Farm, all 3 Soak City Water Parks, parking and all Cedar Fair Parks!

Plan ahead, Season Passes make great gifts!

2011 Soak City Season Pass

The 2010 Season may be ending but planning ahead was never this sweet. When you buy your 2011 waterpark season pass now, you get the end of the 2010 season FREE! Buy your pass now for only $49.99. That's lowest price around town.

Already got a 2010 season pass. Beat the heat and renew your pass online. No need for a new picture or pass! Just a few clicks and your pass will be good to go for 2011. Click here to renew your pass now.

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Get your scream on with NEW Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights Preview Video!

New Discovery Cove Offer for Florida Residents

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 2010) – It’s the perfect time for Florida residents to experience an unforgettable getaway at Discovery Cove. For the first time Florida residents will receive an unlimited pass to SeaWorld Orlando valid through the end of the year included with their reservation.

At Discovery Cove guests can enjoy an all-inclusive adventure and one-of-a-kind opportunity to swim with dolphins, snorkel with rays and tropical fish, hand-feed exotic birds and relax on pristine beaches. Dolphin Swim Day Resort Packages start at $199 for an all-inclusive reservation. Day Resort Packages are also available without the dolphin swim experience for $129.  

All packages include a light continental breakfast, freshly prepared lunch, snacks and beverages throughout the day, dolphin-safe sunscreen, snorkel equipment, locker rental, wetsuits and towels.

With the unlimited pass to SeaWorld Orlando, guests can find out what it’s like to dive deep and fly high on the park’s flying roller coaster, Manta, experience world class shows, thrill rides and up-close animal encounters. Plus, this October families can enjoy an ocean of Halloween fun at SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular.  Starting after Thanksgiving, family and friends can splash into the holiday spirit at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration.

Now through December 25, 2010, Florida residents can book a reservation at

Discovery Cove and receive an unlimited admission pass to SeaWorld Orlando

valid through December 31, 2010.  To discover more, visit DiscoveryCove.com or

call 1.877.434.7268.

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Werewolf-themed maze and Midget Wrestling highlight new attractions for Halloween Haunt at Kings Island

Most immersive horror experience in Midwest opens September 24

KINGS ISLAND, Ohio – There’s nowhere to run and nowhere to hide.  Screams of pure panic pierce the night in the most immersive horror experience in the Midwest – Halloween Haunt at Kings Island !

Halloween Haunt 2010 will desecrate Kings Island with more blood, terror and gore than ever before!  The bloodcurdling horror and mind-bending terror of Halloween Haunt features more than 500 ghastly creatures emerging from the darkness, 14 highly-intense and spine-chilling haunted attractions and some of the most hair-raising thrill rides on the planet.

This year, Halloween Haunt will feature an all-new thriller maze, Wolf Pack, and midget wrestling with the immensely popular Half Pint Brawlers from Spike TV.

Returning haunted attractions include CornStalkers, Club Blood, Massacre Manor, Death Row, Trail of Terror, Urgent Scare, Cut Throat Cove, Slaughter House, Cemetery Drive , CarnEvil and Tombstone Terror-Tory.

Also back is Hot Blooded, a live stage show.  Vampires, blood and rock n’ roll explode onto the stage in this seductive after-life revue.

Kings Island’s favorite thrill-ride attractions will also remain open for Halloween Haunt as well. Favorites include The Beast, Diamondback, Firehawk, Vortex, Drop Tower , Invertigo, Delirium, Flight Deck, The Racer, Flight of Fear, Adventure Express, Backlot Stunt Coaster, Monster, Zephyr, Scrambler, Shake, Rattle & Roll, Dodgem and The Crypt.

Halloween Haunt is not for the feint of heart and will ravage all of your senses.  This in-your-face horror experience continues to break new ground and is filled with terrifying chain-link mazes, frightening wooded trails, disturbing clowns in 3D and outrageous “live” shows.  No other Halloween event in the region can match the number of scares, blood, terror and gore.

Parents, be advised. Halloween Haunt includes graphic scenes, suggestive themes and intense imagery and is intended for mature audiences; not recommended for children. No one and nothing is off limits!

Gates to the underworld are open from 7:00pm to 1:00am Friday and Saturday nights on the following dates: September 24, 25; October 1-2, 8-9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30.

Deadly deals on tickets for Halloween Haunt are available online at haunt.visitkingsisland.com for just $21.99 on Friday nights and $27.99 for all day admission on Saturdays (park hours are from 12:00pm to 1:00am on Saturdays).   Tickets are also just $21.99 on Fridays and $27.99 on Saturdays when a coupon from Taco Bell is presented at any front gate admissions window.

For a detailed listing of each haunted indoor and outdoor attraction and live shows at this year’s event, see below.  For more information, visit haunt.visitkingsisland.com.



INDOOR ATTRACTIONS

WOLF PACK (New for 2010) – The moon is full and there’s nowhere to run and nowhere to hide.  They’re watching every step you take, every move you make.  They can hear you breathing.  There’s something in the woods … and they’re hungry!  Who’s afraid of the big bad wolf?  You will be!!!!

SLAUGHTER HOUSE – Looking for a good cut of fresh meat?  You’ve come to the right place.  The butcher shop is open and you never know who – or what – is on the chopping block.  A real meat-lovers delight as the herd is skinned alive, gutted, beheaded and packed before your very eyes!

URGENT SCARE – It’s time for your checkup!  A virus has broken out in a small town causing a deadly plague that is spreading with destructive speed and effect.   At the local hospital, the virus has begun spreading from patient to patient by direct physical contact or by the means of non-sterilized medical equipment.  If the virus doesn’t kill you, fear might!

CLUB BLOOD –This popular night club has never been so bloody good!  The club’s exotic dancers are dying to meet you.  Come in for a bite.  Stay as long as you like.  In fact, you can stay forever!

DEATH ROW – So you think the Death penalty is bad?  Step inside the sanitarium of slaughter and see what torture is all about!  Nothing will scare you the way the inmates in this evil prison will.  They can’t wait for you to join them on Death Row!

MASSACRE MANOR – The Manor is for sale and the price has been reduced!  Never mind the rumors of murder and torture – it’s priced to sell.  Potential buyers descend into a fortress of fear as they make their way down creepy corridors, entering one terrifying room after another.  Along the way you will encounter many of the Manor’s inhabitants – most of them long since departed.  They will make escaping the wrath that curses the manor a difficult challenge.

CARNEVIL – Join the circus like you wanted to when you were a kid … permanently!  Despite the presence of elephants, giraffes and other circus animals, this is not your run-of-the-mill Big Top.  Only the most determined will make it out alive.

OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS

CUT THROAT COVE – Come seeking adventure and salty old pirates, have you?  In this hideaway, thieving pirates and cutthroat buccaneers are ready to challenge even the bravest souls to a duel.  Can you get past these swashbucklers and make it out alive?  Know this as you try: Dead men tell no tales!

CORNSTALKERS – This frightful cornfield will scare the yell out of you!  Countless scarecrows rule the overgrown ruins of the formerly vibrant Action Zone.  Built by farmhands to ward off any would be trespassers, these guardians of rubble take their jobs very seriously.  Legend has it intruders make these evil scarecrows come to life!

CEMETERY DRIVE – If you are afraid of things that go bump in the night then you you’ll want to think twice before entering Cemetery Drive .  Evil spirits abound as you attempt to make your way around oversized tombstones, monuments and crypts.

TRAIL OF TERROR – Do you dare challenge what lurks beyond the mist down a darkened path deep into the wicked woods of Kings Island ?  Hideous creatures in advanced stages of decay are wandering mindlessly along the trail searching for souls.  Enter at your own peril!

TOMBSTONE TERROR-TORY – Covered bridges and foggy terrain disguise the evil that lurks in every direction as you travel aboard a midnight train.  But don’t be alarmed.  We guarantee you’ll make it to your final destination!

 LIVE SHOWS

HOT BLOODED – Vampires, blood and rock n’ roll explode onto the stage in this seductive after-life revue.  This clan is born to be wild and is looking for action.  Break on through to the other side and get bitten!  Show Times: 8:00, 9:30, 11:00, Midnight in the Showplace Theatre.

HALF PINT BRAWLERS (New for 2010) – Say hello to our little friends, the “Half Pint Brawlers.” Don’t sell these guys short.  This troupe of psycho midget wrestlers will bring you to your knees.  Come see how real it is when heads split open and real blood is shed in the course of a match.  You won’t be able to turn away!  These hard-core grapplers play for keeps.  Not for the feint of heart.  Show Times: 7:30, 9:00, 10:30, Midnight in the Festhaus. 

Universal Studios Hollywood and Live Nation Offer "Combo Ticket" for "Rob Zombie-Alice Cooper: Halloween Hootenanny" Concert and "Halloween Horror Nights

Universal Studios Hollywood and Live Nation
Offer “Combo Ticket” for Two Top Horror Events:

The “Rob Zombie-Alice Cooper: Halloween Hootenanny” Concert and
“Halloween Horror Nights” Combined Ticket Features Drop-Dead Discounts

Universal City, California -- Universal Studios HollywoodSM and Live Nation are teaming up to offer a special “Combo Ticket” for two top Southern California Horror events: The Sept. 30 Rob Zombie-Alice Cooper “Halloween Hootenanny” concert at the Gibson Amphitheater and selected nights of Halloween Horror Nights® at Universal Studios Hollywood, where horror legends come to life.

            “Combo Tickets” will be priced at $59 and will include admission to the Gibson Amphitheatre concert and to Universal Studios Hollywood’s “Halloween Horror Nights” on any one of the following nights: October 1, 2, 8, 17, 21, 24 and 28.  Combo tickets may be purchased via the Live Nation ticket store, accessible through www.livenation.com

            Captain Spaulding’s Museum of Monsters and Madmen, the world’s deadliest tourist trap, will be the setting for a nightmarish 3D world of carnage and chaos as “Rob Zombie’s House of 1000 Corpses: In 3D ZombieVision” is presented at Universal Studios Hollywood’s “Halloween Horror Nights” event.

            “Rob Zombie’s House of 1000 Corpses:  In 3D ZombieVision,” an original concept based on the cult smash film “House Of 1000 Corpses” will offer “Halloween Horror Nights” guests the opportunity to don 3D glasses for an up-close-and-personal three-dimensional encounter with the world’s most infamous serial killers.  Guests will travel through the world of Capt. Spaulding, Baby, Otis and Dr. Satan experiencing Zombie’s iconic creations - “live” and in 3D.  Fans of House of 1000 Corpses” will feel at home walking through the Firefly family residence, the “Museum of Monsters and Madmen” and Dr. Satan’s lair.

Halloween Horror Nights will begin on Friday, September 24 continue on consecutive weekends and selected weekday nights through Sunday, October 31.  Event dates are: September 24, 25 and October 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30, 31. The event will begin nightly at 7 p.m.; closing hours vary by night throughout the event.

            Rob Zombie’s latest release, “Hellbilly Deluxe 2,” is in stores now.   Rob Zombie will soon be reuniting with Alice Cooper for The Halloween Hootenanny Tour featuring special guests (and Zombie labelmates) Murderdolls. The tour kicks off in Los Angeles at the Gibson Amphitheatre on Thursday, September 30th. The pair recently shared the stage for a highly-successful, sold-out limited North American run earlier this year and have long been fans of one another, as well as good friends. Drummer Joey Jordison will be doing double-duty on the dates, playing drums with Rob Zombie, as well as playing guitar with his own band, special guests Murderdolls.

Updates on “Halloween Horror Nights” and a complete list of this year’s mazes, scare zones, “Terror Tram” and other Halloween experiences are available at HalloweenHorrorNights.com and also on Twitter and Facebook.  Fans are invited to follow Halloween Horror Nights creative director John Murdy on Twitter at: Twitter.com/HorrorNights or via Facebook at: “Halloween Horror Nights - Hollywood (Official).”

Rock The Universe 2010 Kicks Off This Weekend at Universal Studios Florida


Universal Orlando Resort's Rock The Universe begins this Sept. 10 and 11 as 14 soul-stirring Christian rock bands take the stage. Guests can also hear inspirational stories from celebrity speakers and enjoy the most thrilling theme park attractions at Universal Studios Florida.

For more information about Rock The Universe 2010 or to purchase tickets, visit www.rocktheuniverse.com or call 1-866-RTU-INFO (1-866-788-4636).

GRANDPARENTS CAN BE KIDS AGAIN WHEN THEY CELEBRATE THEIR SPECIAL DAY AT BUSCH GARDENS

 Families Can Play and Dine With the Beloved
Sesame Street Characters This Grandparents’ Day, Sept. 12

TAMPA, Fla. (Aug. 27, 2010) — They spoil us unlike anyone else. Hooray for grandparents! Busch Gardens Tampa Bay invites grandparents and the special kids in their lives to share a memorable breakfast or lunch at Sesame Street Safari of Fun at Busch Gardens on Grandparents Day, Sunday, Sept. 12. Breakfast is from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.; lunch is from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Your family will enjoy delicious food served buffet-style, character meet and greets with the lovable Sesame Street characters, family together time and a special treat for all the grandparents. Both breakfast and lunch menus include items sure to please grandparents, parents and kids alike. For a full menu, visit SesameStreetSafariofFun.com and click on Dine With Elmo.

Each family will also receive a 6x8 photo featuring your family and Sesame Street friends.

Breakfast is $18 for adults and $15 for children. Lunch is $23 for adults and $17 for children. Pass members receive a 10 percent discount. Admission to the park is required, but not included.

To make your family’s reservation, visit SesameStreetSafariofFun.com and click on Dine With Elmo to book the Sept. 12 dine, or call 1-888-800-5447.

Sesame Street Safari of Fun is the all-new, Sesame Street-themed sunny, funny play land at Busch Gardens filled with kid-size rides, cool water fun, memorable adventures and shows that celebrate the spirit of Africa. Take a dive on Air Grover, the new junior coaster for parents and kids to ride together. Splash in Bert & Ernie’s Watering Hole, a wet adventure filled with bubblers, geysers, jets, dumping buckets and more. A photography studio offers photos with characters daily, and a musical stage show brings safari tales to life.

Busch Gardens has fun for the whole family to enjoy all day. With thrilling rides, award-winning shows and exotic up-close animal encounters, Busch Gardens provides unrivaled excitement for guests of every age.

SAN DIEGAN AWARDED CONSERVATION MEDAL

A San Diego real estate developer-turned conservationist, Ivan Gayler, was awarded the San Diego Zoo's 2010 Conservation Medal for his efforts to safeguard nine million acres of critical plant and animal habitat in Mexico, Ecuador, Columbia and Peru.

     "I became an active conservationist as a consequence of a single experience," said Gayler. "Flying over the Amazon it seemed like all I saw was a lattice of logging roads and smoke from forest fires. It became apparent to me at that moment in time that I was seeing the last great ecosystem on this planet disappearing before my very eyes."

     In 1997, Gayler established Nature and Culture International, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving biological and cultural diversity internationally. It empowers local people by funding projects that create scientific research, education and sustainable economic uses of the forests. The most unique part the organization is it allows people to save their habitat in a way they want to save it.

     "Preserving ecosystems is vital to the health of our planet and an important part of the San Diego Zoo's mission to protect animals," said Mark Stuart, president of The Foundation of the Zoological Society of San Diego. "Working alongside conservationists like Ivan Gayler, we can conserve homes for endangered species."

     A resident of Del Mar, Calif., Gayler grew up exploring the coastal sage and chaparral of San Diego County. He worked as a carpenter for eight years before forming his own real estate development and investment firm. Ivan has served as president and board member of the San Diego Museum of Man, and was a member of the Director's Cabinet of Scripps Institution of Oceanography and board member of the La Jolla Playhouse.

Celebrate Grandparents with Free Admission to Fairytale Town

Grandpa and Grandma can have fun too!  Honor your grandparents on National Grandparents Day on September 12 by including them in a trip to Fairytale Town. In honor of this wonderful day, Fairytale Town will give grandparents FREE admission when accompanied by children ages 12 and under. After all, what do grandparents want most -- to see their grand-kids play!

Grandparents will relive their youth, and let their imaginations begin to takeover as they engage with the kids through their adventure in Fairytale Town. Bring the whole family for a day filled with fun. There will be a special performance by Northern California Vocal Artists Association on the Mother Goose Stage.

This event is made possible in part by support from ScholarShare College Savings Plan.

General Admission prices are $4.50 on weekends and Children 2 & Under are free.

For more information on Grandparents Day visit www.grandparents.com

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Universal Orlando Resort unveilS NEW TV COMMERCIAL FOR HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS XX: TWENTY YEARS OF FEAR

To See the Commercial and Hear from the Spierig Brothers, Click HERE

Universal Orlando Resort has revealed the new television commercial for Halloween Horror Nights XX: Twenty Years of Fear.

For the first time ever, Universal Orlando collaborated with horror film directors to create this year’s commercial.  Universal worked with Michael and Peter Spierig, best known for directing “Daybreakers,” the 2010 box office hit starring Ethan Hawke, Willem Dafoe and Sam Neill.  Other movies directed by the Spierig brothers include “Undead” (2003) and “The Power of the Dark Crystal,” scheduled to be released in 2011.

The commercial features an on-duty security guard patrolling the Universal Orlando prop warehouse who comes face to face with Fear – the master of everything Halloween Horror Nights has ever been and will become.  To see the commercial, click HERE.


This year’s Halloween Horror Nights will feature eight all-new haunted houses, six new scarezones and two live shows.  For more information about the event, visit HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

Wild Adventures Theme Park Marks 15th Anniversary, Announces $4 Million Water Park Expansion

Park confirms return of family concert series with 20 top artists and offers best price on 2011 Season Passes including three months free

Valdosta, GA – Wild Adventures Theme Park (WA) announced today it celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2011 with one of its biggest expansions to date. In the past fifteen years, the park has grown from a petting zoo to the area’s largest tourist attraction.  In 2011, WA plans a $4 million expansion of its water park, Splash Island.  Already considered the area’s largest water park, Splash Island opens two new major family rides in March 2011, the biggest expansion ever made to the water park.

Everyone who purchases a season pass in October gets a gold upgrade free.  At $59.99, the Gold Pass saves an average family of four $160 off of peak season pricing.  Gold includes free parking, miniature golf and go-karts.  Passholders also receive three additional months free as they are invited to use their passes for the remainder of 2010 including admission to popular park events like Kid-o-ween, Phobia and WA’s special Christmas days.

2011 Season Passes are offered online (www.wildadventures.com), via phone 229-219-7080 or at the park.  Passes must be purchased by October 31, 2010 to receive special gold benefits.

“Since Wild Adventures first opened its doors in 1996, it’s always been a central gathering spot for South Georgia and North Florida families.  Today, we are a large-scale 170-acre theme, water and animal park all rolled into one.  Plus, we’re committed to featuring top family-friendly acts in the area’s largest outdoor amphitheater,” said Bob Montgomery, WA’s general manager.  “With this Splash Island expansion, we will have invested more than $10 million in improvements and upgrades since 2007.”

WA’s 2011 improvements and upgrades include two new water attractions and VIP comforts in Splash Island.  The two water rides provide thrills for the entire family in tubes accommodating 3 to 5 guests.  Guests seeking the VIP treatment can relax in exclusive private cabanas, for an additional fee.  The park confirmed more details to be announced soon.

WA’s parent company, Herschend Family Entertainment (HFE) bought WA in September 2007.  Since its purchase, the company has invested in the park.  In 2008, they unveiled a new $4 million dollar water ride called Wahee Cyclone.  In 2010, WA completed a million dollar renovation on the park’s famed wooden roller coaster, The Cheetah.  In addition, the park also planted more than 400 trees and added a trio of new rides.

“By maintaining traditions like our family concert series coupled with new attractions, we are committed to continuing to be the area’s most affordable escape,” Montgomery added.

Similar to the 2010 season, WA plans to feature at least 20 leading acts next year.  Later this fall, WA plans to announce the line-up which includes top acts in a variety of genres such as rock, country, urban, Southern gospel and Christian.

John Travolta and Kelly Preston at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter


Renowned actor and Golden Globe award-winner John Travolta and his wife, actress Kelly Preston,became immersed in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter during their visit to Universal Orlando Resort on Sept. 5.  After sipping Butterbeer at the Hog’s Head pub, Travolta and Preston stepped into Ollivanders wand shop – where the wand chooses the wizard. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the most spectacularly-themed entertainment experience ever created and was inspired by J.K. Rowling’s compelling stories and characters.

Friday, September 3, 2010

COUNTRY SUPERSTAR TRACE ADKINS KICKS OFF LABOR DAY WEEKEND, FEEDS GIRAFFES AT BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY


TAMPA, FL (SEPTEMBER 2, 2010) -- On a visit today to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, country hit-maker Trace Adkins fed giraffes on a Serengeti Safari experience. Adkins and his family were at the park to enjoy a fun day together before he performs in Tampa tonight. The Adkins family topped off the day by feeding kangaroos at the park's new Walkabout Way area. To discover more, visit BuschGardensTampa.com.

Photo courtesy of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

FILMS BY TEN FINALISTS POSTED FOR ONLINE VOTING IN “HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS-ROB ZOMBIE FILM COMPETITION” AS UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD SEARCHES FOR BEST NEW “SHORT SCARE”

Universal City, CA—Ten films, selected by industry judges from nearly two hundred eligible entries, have been posted for online public voting in the “Halloween Horror Nights-Rob Zombie Film Competition.”

Voting is open to the public at www.halloweenhorrornights.com/vote from September 3 – 17, 2010.  Only one vote per person may be cast.

The film competition offered filmmakers an opportunity to have their scariest short film judged by a panel led by the multi-media horror auteur. The winning filmmaker will be rewarded with a premiere showing on Chiller, a posting on Syfy.com, a $1,000 cash prize and a trip for two to the opening night of Halloween Horror Nights® at Universal Studios HollywoodSM

Along with Rob Zombie, the judging panel included Marc Graser, Senior Writer, Variety; Matt Cowan, Entertainment Assignment Editor, Getty Images and former short film juror for the Sundance Film Festival and AFI Film Festival; and John Murdy, Creative Director, Universal Studios Hollywood and “Halloween Horror Nights.” Prospective filmmakers were invited to submit short films of 90 seconds to three minutes in length.  Judging criteria included storytelling skill, originality and the degree of a “good scare.”

The winning film will be announced on September 17. In addition to the prize and the broadcast of the film, the winning filmmaker will be honored in front of celebrities, studio executives and media at the Eyegore Awards ceremony, which will kick off the 2010 Halloween Horror Nights event at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Halloween Horror Nights will begin on September 24 and continue on consecutive weekends and selected weekday nights through Sunday, October 31.  Event dates are: September 24, 25 and October 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30, 31. The event will begin nightly at 7 p.m.; closing hours vary by night throughout the event.  Tickets are now on sale at www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com/hollywood including a new “Killer Deal Nights” option, providing discounts of up to $25 for selected dates.

            Halloween Horror Nights mazes will include the all-new “A Nightmare On Elm Street™:  Never Sleep Again,” “Friday the 13th™: Kill, Jason, Kill!,” “Rob Zombie’s House of 1000 Corpses in 3D Zombievison,” “Vampyre: Castle of the Undead” plus “Saw:  Game On.”  Among the six “Scare Zones” is a new “La Llorona” experience, based upon the timeless Mexican legend.   “Chucky’s Revenge” – an all-new “Terror Tram” experience -- plus an express visit to the new blockbuster attraction, “King Kong 360 3D” Created by Peter Jackson and an all-new “Bill and Ted’s Excellent Halloween Adventure” show will also be featured within the event.

            Universal Studios Hollywood’s favorite thrill-ride attractions will also remain open for “Halloween Horror Nights” nocturnal affair, many with menacing twists.  Favorites include “The Simpsons Ride™,” “Revenge of the MummySM – The Ride” and “Jurassic Park® In the Dark.”

Updates on “Halloween Horror Nights” will be available at HalloweenHorrorNights.com and also on Twitter and Facebook, as Creative Director John Murdy reveals a running chronicle of exclusive information.  Fans are invited to follow John Murdy on Twitter at: Twitter.com/HorrorNights or via Facebook at: “Halloween Horror Nights - Hollywood (Official).” 

Get a Sneak Peek at Universal Orlando’s 2010 Halloween Horror Nights TV Commercial

Next week, Universal Orlando will unveil the all-new TV spot for Halloween Horror Nights XX: Twenty Years of Fear.  Directed by Peter and Michael Spierig (the directors of the box office hit, “Daybreakers”), this year’s commercial will give you a glimpse of Fear – the master of everything Halloween Horror Nights has ever been and will become.

Click HERE to find out the commercial’s debut date and get a sneak peek at what you can expect. 

Coming in 2011 - Riptide Bay at Hurricane Harbor

Gurnee, Ill. (Sept. 2, 2010) – The Best Water Park in the Nation…Just Got Bigger!  Six Flags Great America announces plans to add a 3 acre water park expansion for the 2011 season.  Riptide Bay at Hurricane Harbor will boast more slides and attractions than any other in the state featuring the only place to surf on Lake Michigan.  The new double-sided surf simulator, Surf Rider, sends out 8 foot waves with 24,000 gallons of rushing water a minute.  Just like waves on a real ocean, now anyone can learn how to carve a bottom, do cut backs and learn amazing trick maneuvers as they build their surfing skills.  The water park expansion will also include a Caribbean-inspired activity pool with additional lounging areas, high-speed waterslides, luxury cabanas and more attractions still to be announced. Construction is expected to begin this Fall east of the existing water park. Riptide Bay at Hurricane Harbor is set to open Spring 2011.

"From our coasters and shows to our four children's areas and free water park, there is no other theme park in the world that offers the tremendous amount of thrills we do for one price." said Hank Salemi, Six Flags Great America park president. "Since opening Hurricane Harbor in 2005 the water park has grown in popularity.  We felt the Riptide Bay expansion was the best way to kick off the 2011 season.  The new double-sided Surf Rider is an amazing attraction that our guests will have just as much fun watching as participating.  Plus the new activity pool, speed slides and lounge area will make a great water park even bigger, better and wetter."

Hurricane Harbor, including the all-new Riptide Bay is free with park admission or season pass. 2011 Season Passes are now on sale for the lowest price in 20 years.  Buy yours today at $59.99 when you purchase 4 or more and get the rest of 2010 FREE.  Offer ends October 31, 2010.  Six Flags Great America is located between Chicago and Milwaukee and offers fun for the entire family with 14 heart-pounding roller coasters, a free water park, spectacular shows and four children’s themed areas. 

SEAWORLD’S “OCEAN OF HALLOWEEN FUN” COMES TO LIFE SELECT WEEKENDS IN OCTOBER


ORLANDO, Fla. – (September 2, 2010) – Halloween meets the sea during SeaWorld's Halloween Spooktacular, featuring an underwater "fantasea" where children can trick-or-treat, meet amazing sea creatures, catch silly and spooky shows and help Sesame Street's Abby Cadabby through an amazing adventure to find her magic wand.

SeaWorld Halloween Spooktacular takes place October 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, and 29-31. The daytime event begins at 12 p.m., leaving the littlest of trick-or-treaters wide-eyed for the fun-filled activities.  Visit SeaWorldSpooktacular.com for more details. 

Spooktacular Highlights Include:

Trick-or-Treat Sea Sweets
Offering more than 3 million pieces of trick-or-treat sweets, costumed youngsters can search for hidden “sea” treasures using their Spooktacular maps at more than a dozen different locations. Each station features an array of sweet treats, including a variety of candies and healthy choice options. 

Count Von Count’s Spooktacular Breakfast
One of Sesame Street’s favorite residents, The Count, gets into the Halloween spirit with his friends from Sesame Street at Count Von Count’s Spooktacular Breakfast.  Little ones will sing, groove and mingle side-by-side with Sesame Street characters, while listening to Halloween-themed music and enjoying a special breakfast “boo”-ffet.  Following the breakfast, kids can get their photos taken with the characters for memories that will last forever.*

Abby Cadabby’s Halloween Adventure
Filled with interactive puzzles, sights and sounds, Abby Cadabby’s Halloween Adventure is a 4,000-square-foot outdoor pathway where trick-or-treaters can help Sesame Street’s Abby Caddaby search for her magic wand. Plus, Abby Cadabby is available for photo opportunities.**

Cookie Decorating Station
Kids and parents alike can create their own Halloween-themed cookies at a special decorating station decked out with Spooktacular loot.  The kit -- available for a small charge -- includes a souvenir lunch box filled with a jumbo sugar cookie, toppings ranging from icing and sprinkles to M&M’S®, and milk or apple juice to wash it all down. 

Strolling Entertainment
Gummy Worm Wanda, Salt Water Taffy, and Swedish Fish Suzy are among the 35 fanciful sea creatures that will join the “Spook-tastic” fun welcoming trick-or-treaters as they stroll through colorful, playful schools of pumpkin fish.

Frozen Fun Zone
A DJ will “melt the ice” during a celebration sure to warm up the area with interactive games and activities at Wild Arctic Plaza.



More SeaWorld Halloween Fun:

SeaWorld’s Spooky Spectacular Sleepover (6 p.m. – 9 a.m. on Oct. 15, 16, 22 and 23) 
Families can snuggle into a spooky slumber surrounded by exotic fish, rays, and sea dragons inside the floor-to-ceiling aquariums at Manta.  A pizza dinner and breakfast are also included.  Cost is $78 per person or $103 (includes next-day park admission). Program is for children in grades K-5 and their families.  For more info, visit www.swbg-adventurecamp.com or SeaWorldSpooktacular.com

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

“Rock Your Weekend” Ticket Provides Guests with an Entire Weekend of Fun, Fellowship and Rock and Roll

Universal Orlando Resort’s Rock The Universe 2010 is one of the most exciting celebrations of Christian music in the nation, and the “Rock Your Weekend” ticket allows guests to experience three full days of soul-stirring rock and roll, amazing entertainment and the world-class thrills of both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Individual tickets are only available until Sept. 3 and will not be sold at the gate. Group tickets are only available until Sept. 8 and will not be sold at the gate.

The “Rock Your Weekend” ticket is priced at $99.95 for individual tickets and $89.95 for group tickets and includes:

·         Access to all Rock The Universe concerts on Sept. 10 and 11

·         Three full days of admission to both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure

·         Access to the candle-lighting ceremony and Sunday morning worship services

This year’s Rock The Universe lineup features 14 of the hottest Christian music bands in the industry, including five-time Grammy award-winning group Jars of Clay; hit band Relient K – featuring popular songs like “Forgiven” and “Who I Am Hates Who I’ve Been;” Skillet – whose unique symphonic rock sound inspires fans everywhere; and Needtobreathe – whose music has been featured in hit movies and television shows like “The Hills,” “Employee of the Month” and “P.S. I Love You.”


ROCK THE UNIVERSE 2010 LINEUP

ROCK THE UNIVERSE 2010 LINEUP
Friday, September 10
Saturday, September 11
Skillet
Relient K
Newsboys
tobyMac
Jars of Clay
Jeremy Camp
Hawk Nelson
Grits
Decyfer Down
Needtobreathe
Kutless
Fireflight
Chuck Tocco
Jeff Chandler

** Names in bold indicate headlining acts.

Two-night admission to Rock The Universe is priced at $84.95 for individual tickets and includes admission after 4 p.m. to Universal Studios Florida and all Rock The Universe concerts. A one-night individual ticket is priced at $49.95 for advance purchase and $57.95 for day-of purchase.

Information:    Visit www.RockTheUniverse.com or call 1-866-RTU-INFO (1-866-788-4636).