Buccaneers Cheerleaders Get the Spirit(s) Going at Busch Gardens’ Howl-O-Scream 2011

Tampa, FL (Oct. 18, 2011) –  Tampa Bay Buccaneers Cheerleaders Karen Bittinger, Elisa Eichbauer, Darla Faye Nolan, Milly Figuereo, Kelli Jones, Meagan Praden, Lauren Rasys and Amber Rehman took a break from the sidelines to visit Howl-O-Scream 2011 at Busch Gardens over the weekend.

During their evening at the nationally ranked event, the cheerleaders toured the brand-new Zombie Mortuary, Nevermore and Ultimate Gamble: Vampire Casino haunted houses and met several of The Dark Side of the Gardens’ zombie hoards, including the event’s infamous cheerleader zombies.

General admission for Howl-O-Scream is $77.99 plus tax. Reduced advance-purchase rates and special offers are available for Busch Gardens Pass members at TheDarkSideOfTheGardens.com. Savings on general admission tickets are available in advance at participating Publix Supermarkets or with promotional codes found on select Pepsi Max and Mountain Dew products and at participating Taco Bell, Applebee's and Lifestyle Family Fitness locations in Central Florida.
      
The event runs Thursday through Saturday nights, Sept. 29-Oct. 1, 6-8, 13-15, 20-22 and 27-29.  Operating hours are 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. during Freaky Preview and on Thursday nights. Friday and Saturday hours are 7:30 p.m. to 2 a.m.

For guest information, visit TheDarkSideofTheGardens.com or call 1-888-800-5447. For media information, call Busch Gardens Public Relations at (813) 987-5097.

Busch Gardens is Now Casting Lead Acting Roles in Iceploration

Last month, we announced that Busch Gardens will debut its biggest ice show ever on 2-2-12. Starting February 2, a cast of 20 will bring to life an all-new adventure filled with world-class skaters, amazing aerial performances, master puppetry and live animal stars, with shows daily in the Moroccan Palace. Busch Gardens and Advanced Entertainment Group is now casting for the two starring acting roles: Austin—a young boy between 10 and 13 years old—and Grandpa.

Learn more about these non-skating characters below and email Rich Porter at richardgporter@bellsouth.net to schedule your audition if you’re a fit for either role.

About Iceploration

The 30-minute show opens with Austin, a digital-savvy preteen, explaining how technology has made his generation more connected to the world than ever before. But his grandfather – and old-world explorer – argues that the boy is more disconnected than he realizes, and takes him on an adventure around the globe. Through their travels they visit the African Serengeti, Great Barrier Reef, the Arctic and the Amazon rainforest.

About Austin

Austin looks like any kid you might find in your neighborhood.  He’s a slightly cynical (approximately) 11-year-old boy who is armed with wireless technology that gives him access to just about anything. To Austin, there doesn’t seem to be a reason to step out into the world when you can bring the world into your room with a few clicks on a computer. In fact, Austin can play with an entire playground full of kids his age from the comfort of his favorite chair.  He’s not concerned the playground is a virtual world or that his avatar looks nothing like him, or that no one knows his real name.  The games he plays are full of adventure and he’s developed quite a few buddies who all help each other out on their various missions.  When Austin’s environmental scientist Grandpa offers to take Austin along as an assistant on his next scientific fact-finding trip, Austin isn’t interested. Although Austin loves his technology-challenged Grandpa, he thinks he’s a bit of a “dinosaur.” But Austin’s grandfather isn’t deterred by the boy’s lack of enthusiasm.  He plans to introduce his sun-starved grandson to the wonders of a first-hand experience with the natural world.

About Grandpa

Grandpa (Mr. Jones) is a seasoned explorer who has traveled worldwide to conduct research as an environmental scientist.  He is a ruggedly handsome, in his late 50s to mid 60s and is accustomed to being self-sufficient.  Equally at home in a University lecture hall or in the wilds of the rainforest, Grandpa’s innate sense of how to peacefully co-exist with all living things informs every moment of his life.  Though Grandpa has had to learn how to use modern technology in his research, he finds the constantly changing nature of technology tiresome.  It’s not that Mr. Jones is resistant to learning, it’s just that by the time he finally figures something out, it’s already been replaced by a newer version.  As a result, he often reverts back to his “old school” way of doing things.  To him it’s just simpler. When Jones decides it’s time to engage his 11-year-old grandson in the great outdoors, he knows the only way he’ll get Austin to come is if he puts him in charge of the more technical aspects of the trip.

BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY TO HOST FIRST-EVER 12TH GRADE GRAD NITE

Cobra Starship and Comedian Gabriel Iglesias will Play an Exciting Role in this Special Night Devoted to Graduating High School Seniors.

Tampa, Fla. (Oct. 17, 2011) - Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is excited to host its first annual 12th Grade Grad Nite on Friday, April 27, 2012. This once-in-a-lifetime experience for graduating high school seniors is not your average daytime “walk in the park.” This special night offers live entertainment by two popular acts, the thrill of riding world-class coasters in the dark, high-energy DJs and dance parties in the streets of Busch Gardens, and much more to amp up the celebration.

American pop rock band Cobra Starship and comedian Gabriel Iglesias will headline the entertainment, adding to the excitement of the night with special performances for the graduating high school seniors. Cobra Starship, formed in 2005, released their fourth album, Night Shades, in August 2011 with the hit single “You Make Me Feel…” The band is best known for their Top 40 hit, “Good Girls Gone Bad.”

Gabriel Iglesias is known as the “fluffy” comic in a Hawaiian shirt who coined the saying, “I’m not fat… I’m fluffy.” Gabriel hosts Comedy Central’s newest TV series, “Gabriel Iglesias Presents Stand-Up Revolution” and his credits include “Last Comic Standing,” ABC’s “My Wife & Kids,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” and “The Family Guy.”

WHAT:    The park will remain open after hours for graduating seniors to enjoy high-energy DJs and dance parties, headline entertainment including Cobra Starship and comedian Gabriel Iglesias, and Busch Gardens’ top coasters in the dark, including SheiKra, Kumba, Montu, Gwazi, and our new mega-attraction, Cheetah Hunt, a one-of-a-kind launch coaster that offers a new breed of speed.

DATE/TIME:      Friday, April 27, 2012, 7:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.

ADMISSION:       $54.99 + tax (One complimentary chaperone ticket given for each 10 paid student tickets; additional chaperone tickets can be purchased for $54.99 + tax)

RESERVATIONS:   Please email gradnite@buschgardens.com OR call 1-866-781-1333
Admission to the all new 12th Grade Grad Nite 2012 is limited, so make your reservations early. Grad Nite is a separate-ticketed night event and tickets may only be purchased through the student’s school. Entertainment, rides, attractions, operating hours, and prices are subject to change without notice.

San Diego Zoo Animals Join Attempt to Break Jumping Jacks World Record

San Diego Zoo animals were stretching their wings and warming up their legs Tuesday afternoon in preparation to join the "Team Up and Jump Around the World" attempt to break the Guinness World Record for most people doing jumping jacks in a 24-hour period.

     The Zoo wants to engage guests and join First Lady Michelle Obama as well as California Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation & Dance and other health organizations to celebrate the importance of leading an active, healthy lifestyle. Similar "Jumping Jacks" events will be held nationally and worldwide from noon on Oct. 11 through noon on Oct. 12.

     People who missed out in today's event have another opportunity to take a step to get healthy and support conservation by participating in Saturday's 2.5-mile family-friendly walk through the Zoo. The annual Walk on the Wild Side, presented by Mission Federal Credit Union, will be held at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 15. Funds raised during this year's walk will support koala conservation efforts in Australia and will help build a new home for koalas at the Zoo. Visit www.sandiegozoo.org/walk for more information on Saturday's event.

     During Tuesday's jumping jacks record attempt, a serval showed Zoo guests how high this small African cat can jump, while a sea lion got into the mood and jumped along with participants. Churchill, a polar bear costumed character, and Tatqiq, a real polar bear, led participants in one minute of nonstop jumping jacks. San Diego State University students moderated the event to make sure participants completed their jumping jacks in order to be counted.

KNOTT’S FIRE & POLICE PERSONNEL RECOGNITION DAYS TO HONOR ALL THOSE WHO PROTECT OUR COMMUNITY

Fire and Police Personnel and One Guest
Get in FREE November 24 thru December 18

BUENA PARK, Calif. – As a thank you to all the men and women who assist in protecting life and property, Knott’s Berry Farm Theme Park is proud to offer  Fire and Police Recognition Days.  Starting Thanksgiving Day, November 24 through Sunday, December 18, Knott’s will once again extend free Park admission to all active fire and police personnel and one guest.  Up to six additional tickets can be purchased for only $17 each.

            “The men and women who serve as fire officials and law enforcement officers put their lives on the line everyday for our community,” said Raffi Kaprelyan, Knott’s Berry Farm General Manager.  “It is the dedication of these professionals that make our communities a safe place to live and work.”

            To participate, active fire and police personnel must present valid, photo fire or law enforcement ID at Knott’s main gate November 24 through December 18, 2011.  Fire or police personnel absolutely must be present.  Fire and law enforcement badges and identification cards are acceptable only if accompanied by photo ID.  As all IDs must reference specific fire or law enforcement duty, government-only IDs will not be accepted.

            Under promotional rules, Knott’s will admit sworn officers, civilian employees and support staff from all city and county fire and law enforcement organizations, plus the following: California Highway Patrol (CHP); County Sheriff; District Attorney; U.S. Forest Service, California Department of Forestry and other wild land fire organizations; correctional facilities (prisons); U.S. Marshals; ATF (Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms); the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); International Border Patrol; Immigration Naturalization Service (INS); ambulance company EMTs; and reserve or volunteer fire and law enforcement members with valid ID.  Please note that only individuals with proper photo ID specifically referencing fire or law enforcement duty will be accepted.

            The following organizations are not covered by the promotion:  retired fire and law enforcement employees; U.S. Armed Forces, including all U.S. veterans; private law firms; reserve or volunteer fire and law enforcement members without valid ID; American Red Cross; California Conservation Corps.; private security firms; and all employees with government-only IDs or without specific fire or law enforcement IDs.

            Knott’s Berry Farm is owned and operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company, a publicly traded partnership that is listed for trading on The New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “FUN.”  In addition to Knott’s Berry Farm, Cedar Fair owns and operates ten other amusement parks, six water parks, one indoor water park resort, and five hotels.  Cedar Fair also operates the Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park in Gilroy, Calif. under a management contract.

          For more information, including operating hours and attraction availability on the day you plan to visit, please call Knott’s Information at (714) 220-5200 or visit us online at www.knotts.com.

Matching Grant and Other News from WCHM

CHALLENGE GRANT

I hope that by now many of you have heard the wonderful news that the Museum received a $10,000 challenge grant from an anonymous donor.  This donor wanted to challenge the museum and its supporters to raise $10,000 by October 31st.  This generous person will match every dollar we get until then, dollar for dollar, up to $10,000!  As we are right in the middle of our annual operating fund drive, I will take this opportunity to ask you to get out your check book and make a tax-deductible donation to the Wabash County Historical Museum!  Do it NOW and the impact of your gift will be doubled. 

If you plan to give later in the year, that is alright too.  Believe me, we will still have the need.  If I can answer any questions for you about ways to give, please call me at 260-563-9070.

CHILI FOR CHARITY

For the second year, the Museum will have a booth at Chili for Charity held on Saturday, October 15, at Paradise Spring, in downtown Wabash.  We are making Prairie Hen Chili, named after a famous canal boat.  Stop by the booth and see us!  And when you’ve had your fill of chili, remember the museum is just down the street.  Our Historic Harley exhibit is still going strong!  Make a day of it!

SUNDAY SPECIAL

Did you know that from now until the end of the year we are open on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.?  If you can’t get to the Museum during the week, and your Saturdays are filled with errands, laundry, and children’s sporting events, you might like to visit us on a quiet Sunday afternoon.  The best part?  If you bring a receipt, dated within the last seven days, from one of the merchants listed below, you get in at ½ price!

Participating merchants are:

    The Francis Shoppe
    Modoc’s
    Market Street Grill
    Charley Creek (including Twenty and the Inn’s shops)
    The D Shoppe
    The Crow’s Nest
    Dr. James Ford Historic Home
    Eugenia’s Restaurant

HARVEY GIRLS BRUNCH—Round Two!

(This was so popular last month, we’ve been asked to do it again!)

Have you ever seen Judy Garland in “The Harvey Girls”? The movie is based on real-life Harvey Girls, who worked in Harvey House restaurants along the railroad lines in the western US. Harvey Girls were known for their good cooking and wholesome demeanor.  Wabash County’s Linda Kuester, whose mother was a Harvey Girl, will give a presentation about her mother’s experience and the history of this slice of Americana.  Along with the presentation, you’ll be served BRUNCH by costumed Harvey Girls! The event will take place at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, November 3, in the Museum’s multipurpose room. RESERVATIONS AND PREPAYMENT ARE REQUIRED, and there is a limit of 30 participants. Cost is $10 for members and $12 for non-members. CALL NOW! THIS ONE IS FILLING UP FAST!

HISTORY HUNTER EVENT, NOVEMBER 17 AT NOON

Join us at noon in the multipurpose room as Dr. James Glass, from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Historic Preservation, discusses the Frances Slocum Trail, which runs through Wabash County.  History Hunter events are about 40 minutes long, with a question and answer period after.  Come on your lunch hour, bring a sack lunch, and leave in time to get back to work!  Free for members or with a paid daily admission.

AND FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO REALLY PLAN AHEAD…

Family Fun Day will be held on Thursday, December 29.  Bring all the kids in your life and explore the entire museum, plus extra fun and games relating to our theme of archaeology!  From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., free from members or with a paid daily admission.

SeaWorld Orlando Launches Social Mobile App Game SCVNGR For Halloween Spooktacular

SeaWorld Orlando is launching SCVNGR, the social mobile app game for Halloween Spooktacular where guests can win a cool prize after completing three fun and exciting challenges.  Check out our blog for all the details http://bit.ly/nUWzOF

SEAWORLD ORLANDO LAUNCHES SOCIAL MOBILE APP GAME SCVNGR FOR HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR

SeaWorld Orlando’s Halloween Spooktacular is about to become even more exciting!

During the park’s amazing family-friendly Halloween event, guests can play SCVNGR, a free mobile app game all about going places, doing challenges and earning points. Instead of riddles to guide you to a place, SCVNGR concentrates on completing challenges at a particular location, like SeaWorld Orlando. SCVNGR is played from a custom app on iPhones or Android mobile devices.

Those who complete three simple and fun challenges at SeaWorld Orlando during Halloween Spooktacular will win a free limited-edition Shamu lunch box.

Players can expect to have a blast and earn some sweet rewards when they play SCVNGR at SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular,” said Chris Mahl, SVP and chief brand alchemist at SCVNGR. “It’s the perfect way to bring a social element to the awesomely spooktacular activities and events SeaWorld Orlando has planned!”

SeaWorld Orlando’s Halloween Spooktacular SCVNGR challenges are:

·         Apple Decorating Post: Head to the apple decorating station and create a delicious treat. Which of the scrumptious toppings did you use to make the perfect candied apple? Type in your favorite topping.

·         Welcome Creatures: Spooktacular’s hero is Otto the Octopus ... but did you know SeaWorld has a real octopus, too?  Snap a photo of the REAL sea creature! (Hint: Last seen inside one of Manta’s aquariums).

·         Otto Octopus: Shamu and friends are among many fanciful creatures welcoming trick-or-treaters! Snap a photo with any character at the PPZ (Penelope’s Party Zone)!

To start playing, download the SCVNGR app at the Android Market or Apple’s iTunes Store. When guests arrive at SeaWorld Orlando for Halloween Spooktacular, they’ll simply need to check-in on SCVNGR, go to “places,” and then tap on “SeaWorld Spooktacular.” Follow the prompts and have fun!

Halloween meets the sea during SeaWorld Orlando's Halloween Spooktacular, featuring an ocean of Halloween fun where children can trick-or-treat, dance with whimsical sea creatures, catch silly and spooky shows and create sea-themed arts and crafts.

SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular takes place October: 15-16, 22-23, and 28-30. The daytime event runs from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., leaving the littlest of trick-or-treaters wide-eyed for even more fun-filled activities.  And now, kids are half-price with a full paid adult when bought online in advance.

For more information about SeaWorld Orlando and Halloween Spooktacular visit http://seaworldparks.com/seaworld-orlando

For more information on SCVNGR visit http://www.scvngr.com/seaworldspooktacular

Deployed soldier reunited with his Family At Busch Gardens’ Sesame Street Safari of Fun

TAMPA, FL (October 2011) – For the Hill children – 6-year-old Chrislyn, 4-year-old Christopher and 1-year-old Christian – the “A is for Africa” show at Busch Gardens’ Sesame Street Safari of Fun recently featured a surprise ending that was many months in the making.

The children’s father, Air Force Staff Sergeant Christopher Hill, had been deployed to Zabul Providence, Afghanistan since early 2011. After more than 7 months away from his family, SSgt Hill and his wife, Frances, wanted the perfect surprise homecoming to reunite him with his children – the youngest of whom started walking while he was away.

At the finale of the family-friendly show featuring the Sesame Street characters, the stage attendant announced that they had a special guest to introduce, but that they would need special help from the audience (and a wave of Abby’s magic wand) to bring him all the way back from Afghanistan.

After a tearful reunion, the family posed for photos with their Sesame Street friends onstage, and 4-year-old Christopher thanked Elmo for bringing his father home.

Ssgt Hill is stationed at MacDill Air Force Base.

The Day After Thanksgiving FREE ADMISSION DAY AT FAIRYTALE TOWN

Friday, November 25 from 10AM to 4PM
(families who donate canned goods receive free admission)

Fairytale Town is offering Free Admission to families who bring a canned or packaged good for donation on Friday, November 25, 2011 - the day after Thanksgiving. Fairytale Town is serving as a donation site for the Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services: Holiday Spirit of Giving Food Drive. 

Activities in the park will include a hands-on activity for children and puppet shows in the Children's Theater (for a nominal fee). Families can spend a few leisurely hours in the crisp winter air and let the hustle and bustle of the season pass them by. Let your imaginations run wild around the 25 oversized storybook playsets and exhibits. Say hello to Fairytale Town's newest residents the three little piglets, and the many other barnyard animals. Parents and children alike can explore the Crooked Mile, King Arthur's Castle, Cinderella's Pumpkin Coach, Sherwood Forest, or the Yellow Brick Road.

This event is sponsored by Ronald McDonald House Charities, and Pacific Dental Services.

For more information, please call 916-808-7462 or visit our website at www.fairytaletown.org.  

What: Free Admission Day at Fairytale Town

When: Friday, November 25, 2011 - Canned Food Drive

             10AM to 4PM (weather permitting)

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

San Diego Zoo to Ignite a Statewide Conversation about Environmental Sustainability and Museums

     What are the top environmental challenges for our region? Who is working to address these challenges? How can museums become involved? These are some of the questions to be posed on Friday, October 14, 2011, by a group of museums meeting at the San Diego Zoo to discuss how museums can inform their communities about environmental challenges and inspire action. San Diego Zoo Global and the Balboa Park Cultural Partnership will engage museum, environmental and community leaders in roundtable discussions as part of a statewide initiative, titled Ignite! Museums as Catalysts for Sustainability. The goals are to explore the fundamental ecological issues facing each region and to seek ways in which museums can be partners in finding solutions to these challenges. The seven concurrent discussions will be connected virtually, and environmentalist, entrepreneur and author Paul Hawken (www.paulhawken.com) will give the keynote address. For more information, see www.calmuseums.org/ignite.

 Ignite! Museums as Catalysts for Sustainability is spearheaded by the Green Museums Initiative, a program supported by the California Association of Museums. The regional roundtables will take place concurrently at seven host institutions: Sunnylands Center and Gardens in Rancho Mirage; San Diego Zoo; Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach; University of California, Merced, Library; California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco; Tahoe Center for Environmental Sciences; and Gateway Science Museum in Chico. Each site is convening museum leaders, scientists, environmentalists, community stakeholders, and artists to discuss how to preserve ecosystems and promote healthy communities in their region. Artists participating in the regional roundtable discussions will create artworks for a statewide traveling exhibition by Exhibit Envoy (www.exhibitenvoy.org).

KNOTT’S ANNUAL CELEBRATION HONORS VETERANS & ACTIVE MILITARY WITH FREE ADMISSION

-- November 1-24, 2011 --

BUENA PARK, Calif. – Knott’s Berry Farm continues its tradition of honoring the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. military, both past and present, with free admission during its 22 nd annual Military Tribute. Knott’s is the only theme park that has continuously offered free admission to veterans and active military personnel in honor of our nation’s Veteran’s Day holiday.

            The free-admission offer applies to all U.S. veterans and active military personnel and their spouse (or one guest.)  Up to six additional tickets may be purchased at Knott’s Ticket Booths for only $17 each.  Military personnel may also purchase additional tickets at their local MWR ticket office.

U.S. veterans and active military personnel must present military ID or proof of U.S. military service at Knott’s ticket booths to receive the complimentary tribute tickets.  Veteran or active military personnel must be present.

U.S veterans and active military can also take advantage of a great $84 a night rate at the Knott’s Resort Hotel.  For reservations, call (866) 752-2444, or visit www.knottshotel.com  or your local military base.  For information on operating hours, please call Knott’s Information at (714) 220-5200 on the day you plan to visit or log on to www.knotts.com.

Knott’s Berry Farm is owned and operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company, a publicly traded partnership that is listed for trading on The New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “FUN.”  In addition to Knott’s Berry Farm, Cedar Fair owns and operates nine other amusement parks, six water parks, one indoor water park resort, and five hotels. 

New Busch Gardens Offer Invites Florida Residents to Experience *FREE* Serengeti Safari with Admission

TAMPA, FL (October 3, 2011) – An all-new offer at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay lets Florida Residents experience the off-road adventure of a Serengeti Safari free with the purchase of a single-day admission!

The 30-minute Serengeti Safari is an open truck tour that offers guests a unique look at Busch Gardens’ 65-acre Serengeti Plain habitat, featuring hundreds of exotic, free-roaming African animals. During the safari, guests will encounter antelope, rhinos and ostrich up close and hand-feed reticulated giraffes with the help of an expert guide. Be prepared for amazing photo opportunities!

Guests who take advantage of the online offer will have the opportunity to book a complimentary Serengeti Safari with each full-price, single-day admission they purchase at $79.99 for adults or $71.99 for kids ages 5 to 9.

Children must be 5 or older to participate in the Serengeti Safari. Capacity is limited, and reservations must be made in advance at time of purchase.

This offer will be sold exclusively online, and eTickets let guests print their tickets at home and go straight to the turnstiles. Tickets will be available for purchase through – and must be redeemed by – Dec. 15, 2011.

For those who already have an annual passport or park tickets, the popular Serengeti Safari is available "a la carte" at $30.55 per person, plus tax – a 10% discount from the regular general admission price os $33.95.

eTickets are available at http://www.buschgardens.com/

JOIN THE COUNT AND HIS SESAME STREET FRIENDS FOR A MONSTER MASH AT BUSCH GARDENS

TAMPA, Fla. (Sept. 29, 2011) — Families can celebrate Halloween at a special holiday party on Oct. 22 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 lunch.

The lunch is from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. and includes delicious food served buffet-style, with items sure to please both parents and kids alike. A full menu is available at SesameStreetSafariOfFun.com, under the Dine With Elmo link.

This special Halloween Monster Mash Dine is $22 for adults and $15 for children, and one 6x8 photo with The Count 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. 22 dine, or call 1-888-800-5447.

Gloria Estefan at Halloween Horror Nights 21 at Universal Orlando Resort

Grammy-award winning singer and songwriter Gloria Estefan encountered deceased souls while making her way through the Winter’s Night: The Haunting of Hawthorn Cemetery haunted house at Universal Orlando Resort’s Halloween Horror Nights 21 tonight. Hosted this year by Universal Orlando, Estefan and her family are avid fans of Halloween Horror Nights and have been coming to the event since its inception in 1990. Named “the country’s best Halloween event” for four years in a row, Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights brings to life guests’ most intense nightmares on select nights this fall through October 31. Estefan’s newest album, “Miss Little Havana” debuted Sept. 27 with the hit single, “Wepa,” already at No. 3 on the Billboard dance chart.

© 2011 Universal Orlando Resort. All rights reserved.

Photo Credit: Roberto Gonzalez, Universal Orlando Resort

Rocker Dee Snider at Halloween Horror Nights 21 at Universal Orlando

Dee Snider, legendary rocker, entertainer and front man for Twisted Sister, came face-to-face with three savage, blood-thirsty banshees while experiencing the Nightingales: Blood Prey haunted house at Universal Orlando Resort’s Halloween Horror Nights 21. Named “the country’s best Halloween event” for four years in a row, Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights brings to life guests’ most intense nightmares on select nights this fall through October 31.

Photo Credit: Roberto Gonzalez, Universal Orlando Resort

Animal Care Experts from SeaWorld released manatee at Blue Springs

Animal care experts from SeaWorld Orlando released Caleb the manatee at Blue Springs today (September 29, 2011).

Caleb was a 460-pound manatee suffering from cold stress at Blue Springs State Park in Orange City, Fla. when he was brought to SeaWorld Orlando by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) on January 21, 2011. While being cared for, Caleb gained 230 lbs and weighed a total of 690 lbs upon his release.

SeaWorld’s animal rescue team is on call 24/7 to save and care for injured, orphaned or ill animals including manatees like Caleb. 

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL PRESENTS THE BABY PANDA IPAD APP

San Diego Zoo Global announced today, Thursday September 29, that it is launching a new baby panda iPad app.  The app, called Baby Panda's New Home, was created by Zentro Media and includes content from the well known Zoo.

     Baby Panda's New Home tells the remarkable story of Zhen Zhen's birth and childhood at the San Diego Zoo and her eventual journey to China to live in the natural habitat of the giant pandas. The story includes everything from Zhen Zhen's first doctor visit, to her birthday parties (including giant cakes!), to her airplane trip and eventual relocation into the wild.

     "The baby pandas at the San Diego Zoo have generated tremendous interest among the public." Said Ted Molter, director of marketing for San Diego Zoo Global.  "Creating an app that shares these adorable bears with kids in an educational way helps us to continue our mission of saving these animals."

     At the core of the app is a beautiful children's book.  Zentro Media then adds a vast treasure chest of other media such as videos, sounds, photos, fun facts and activities. The app features information about the lives of pandas at the Zoo but also in their natural environment. The app is enriched with so much interactive material that it can be experienced many times, in many different ways…by all members of the family.

     "We couldn't be more pleased working with a world class brand like the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.  Having access to their content and experts allowed us to produce a wonderful app for the iPad that enriches the lives of children and their parents.  It's very special when you match a content rich global brand with a top notch production studio, such as Zentro Media", says Michael Rothbard, CEO of Zentro.

     The app features high definition videos of baby panda Zhen Zhen and her mother, Bai Yun along with interactive elements, photos and games.  The app is particularly designed for children but is also expected to be sought after by the many panda fans who look for collectible items featuring their favorite bears.

     Zentro is working with the world famous San Diego Zoo to create an exciting new series of enhanced books featuring the Zoo's "celebrity" animals. Amazing characters like Zhen Zhen the panda and Tembo the elephant are the stars of these rich multimedia books for children of all ages.  Baby Panda's New Home is the first episode in this new San Diego Zoo series. The apps will be entertaining, educational and will set the standard for children's non-fiction enhanced books on the iPad.

     Zentro Media is an official Apple iPad developer and a next generation publishing company combining the talents of Emmy® Award-winning storytellers with acclaimed multimedia developers. This combination of proven technical expertise and creative storytelling creates a new art form in publishing. Zentro Media has offices in New York and Los Angeles.  For more information, please visit www.zentromedia.com