Stresa Sights Chosen as 'Blog Of The Week' By ITALY Magazine

We are so proud and happy to have been chosen this week by ITALY Magazine to be featured as their Blog of the Week.




I was thrilled when contacted by Pat Eggleton of ITALY Magazine to do the interview. And the process of answering her questions was a valuable exercise for me as well. It strengthened and clarified for me my understanding of why I like Stresa, why I love doing this.

ITALY Magazine is, in their own words, "The n.1 magazine for all lovers of all things Italian. Fall in love with ITALY through our feature articles, catch up with the latest news, property and travel information or join our forums to share your passion for Italy with others."

Here's my interview. For those of you who have wondered about Stresa Sights and how I got here this may answer some of those questions.

_______________

Meet Dana Kaplan, who blogs from Stresa, a lakeside city on Lago Maggiore in Northern Italy. In Stresa Sights her aim is to share the beauty of this area with others and inspire them to visit.

Dana, where are you from originally?
I’m a Brooklyn girl, Flatbush and Canarsie. Then college in Boston, and I’ve lived in New York City and the suburbs of Philadelphia. So I’ve always been in the Northeastern United States. You can imagine what a change Stresa is.

I can indeed! Why did you settle in Stresa?

Stresa found me. That is, I met friends who lived here and I've been visiting for some years now. Once I saw it I just fell in love with the area and now I spend as much time here as I can.

Can you tell us about the area where you live?
Stresa fascinates me. It is a combination of natural beauty and man-made wonders. Stresa sits on the shore of the Borromeo Gulf of Lago Maggiore, Italy’s second largest lake. To the north there are the Alps. To the west is the wine country of Piemonte and the rice fields of Vercelli. To our east the lake extends all the way into Switzerland. And we can easily reach Milan, just 30 minutes to the south.

What do you love about Stresa?
I love this combination of private town and tourist attraction. Everyone’s always in a good mood because they’re on vacation. But mostly, I love the views. There are palm trees lining the shore, snow-capped Alps behind them, and wind blows the water across the gulf while all sorts of boats cruise past. I’ll never tire of seeing this.

Is there anything that drives you crazy?
It’s been difficult for me to learn Italian here because of the international nature of the city. Everyone wants to speak English with me!

Can you describe some local dishes?
There really aren’t any dishes that are truly particular to Stresa. There are fresh fish from the lake, especially pesce persico, a variety of perch. But mostly Stresa’s cuisine benefits from its wonderful location. There are the best wines of Piemonte, the creative and cosmopolitan cooking styles of Milan, and in the mountains one finds warm, hearty traditional mountain fare such as brasato and polenta, chinghiale [wild boar] stew, and the regional Toma and Bettelmatt cheeses.

When and why did you start your blog?
I started the blog just as a way to record some of my own experiences. However, it quickly became apparent that there was a great need for an English language resource for Stresa. Since then, Stresa Sights has grown into a guide to help people who are planning to come here, and also to inspire those who have never heard of Stresa to think about visiting. I hope, that with the help of the blog, people feel they already have some friends in Stresa before they even arrive.

Who contributes to your blog?
I have had so much help from the wonderful people I’ve met through the blog. Residents, shop owners, readers and travellers have all contributed. Through these connections I’ve been able to sometimes give personalized advice to travellers. It’s this type of personal interaction, being a liaison between the town and the tourists, that has brought me the most pleasure.

What do you blog about?
A lot of the inspiration comes from my readers. For example, the number one item searched for on the blog is directions to Stresa from Malpensa airport. So, one day upon arriving I took photos of all of the exit signs during the drive and posted a pictorial set of directions. It’s still the most looked at post on the blog. I write about events taking place in Stresa, the main attractions, food, shopping, a little history. I’ve interviewed several people in town. Basically whatever captures me about Stresa at that moment and what readers have asked for.

If a tourist has only one day in Stresa, what should they see?
They must visit the Borromean Islands. These three islands, two of which still belong to the Borromeo family, rich and powerful in this region for five centuries, are always a delightful surprise to visitors. Isola Bella boasts the family palace; Isola Madre is a tropical garden stocked with exotic plants and white peacocks and the family’s more casual villa; and the tiny Isola dei Pescatori is, as it was for centuries, a small fishing village. A visitor could take the ferry from Stresa, visit the islands, and still have time for a dinner in the piazza.

All your blog posts are interesting but can you recommend one or two especially for Italy Magazine readers?

In addition to the islands I want potential visitors to know about the Settimane Musicali, the music festival that takes place in Stresa each summer. I also very much enjoyed interviewing Stresa’s passionate mayor, Canio Di Milia, and I want everyone to see L’Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso, just one of the most gorgeous medieval abbeys anywhere.

Thank you for talking to Italy Magazine, Dana. Happy blogging.
Grazie, and I hope to see you in Stresa soon!

_______________

This recognition is lovely... But what's really even lovelier, as I said in the interview, is the incredible people that I've met through Stresa Sights. And so I must thank all of you as well: my readers and those who write in with questions and comments, friends who have contributed photos, videos and information, Stresiani who have contacted me, worked with me, and let me interview them, and always, Giuseppe.

Now let's get back to work!

This week's online ITALY magazine edition focuses on 'A Taste of Northern Italy.' In addition to the interview piece about Stresa Sights there are articles about Fashion Week in Milano and the Torrone and Torroni Festival in Cremona. Take a look at it here and subscribe to receive it automatically in your email.

www.italymag.co.uk

The Lands of Magic Kingdom:

• Main Street USA
• Tomorrowland
• Mickey's Toontownfair
• Fantasyland
• Liberty Square
• Frontierland
• Adventureland

Corn Maze, 60 foot slide, hayrides and more!

Central Florida isn't just home to theme parks. It's got local charm and small town (OK, farm) stuff too!

http://www.longandscottfarms.com/maze_hrs_admission.html

Every Fall in the months of October & November Scott's Maze Adventures opens featuring our 6 acre Corn Maze.

Fall Corn Maze Dates & Hours:
October 2, 2010 - November 28, 2010
Saturdays 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sundays 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. (WE DO NOT OPEN FARM GATES UNTIL 1:00 on SUNDAYS!)
**LAST TICKET SOLD AT 3:00 PM, Farm closes at 5:00

TUESDAYS through FRIDAYS are by reservations ONLY and there is a minimum of $164.00, see Groups info at bottom!


Admission Options (Kids 2 and under free):
Corn Maze & Adventure Area;
Youth (3 – 16) $8.00
Adults (17 & Older) $10.00


Corn Maze & Adventure Area includes;
6.5 acre Corn Maze Half acre Mini Corn Maze
Labyrinth Rock Maze Mist Maze
60’ Super Slide Kids Zip Line
Picnic Area First level of Maze Tower
Children’s Play Area (including giant sandbox and playground)
Mazie the Dragon Parking
Country Market Access to Food Vendors

“Fishing FOR Kids” - $2.00 extra per person
“Cornfusion” Tree Maze - $2.00 extra per person
Weekend Hayrides - $4.00 per person


Fishing for Kids and Cornfusion Tree Maze are only on weekends. Tickets, may not be purchased separately and must be purchased as part of a combination ticket.

Weekend Discount Combo Admission;


Adult Maze & Hayride $13.00
Adult Maze & Hayride & Tree Maze $15.00

Youth Maze & Hayride $11.00
Youth Maze & Fishing $10.00
Youth Maze & Tree Maze $10.00
Youth Maze & Hayride & Fishing $13.00
Youth Maze & Hayride & Tree Maze $13.00
Youth Maze & Fishing & Tree Maze $11.00
Youth Maze & Hayride & Fishing & Tree Maze $15.00

Weekend Group Discounts apply ONLY;

•For Maze admission only
•With 25 or more paying guests, you receive 3 free Maze admissions
•Must have made an advance reservation
•Must have paid the group deposit, in our office 48 hours before arrival
•Does not include any other discount, i.e. Scout’s dollar off, combo tickets

Scout Weekend Discount*;
This year we do have 2 Scout weekends; October 16th and November 6th!! It is one dollar off to any Scout that is wearing a Scout Uniform. Or you can bring a group of 25 or more and qualify for the group discount. See above for weekend discounts!


Fall-O-Ween Weekend Discount*;
At the Farm the weekend of October 30th is our Fall-O-Ween. Anyone with a costume will receive one dollar off the Maze admission only. Not applicable with combo tickets.

Veteran's Weekend Discount*;
Any American Seviceman or Veteran with a valid ID card on the weekend of November 13th will get in free. Not applicable with combo tickets.

*Offers and discounts cannot be combined; everyone must pay to enter the Maze Park Area even if you do not take advantage of all activities.

Hayrides are on a hay wagon pulled by a Farm Tractor, about 15 to 20 minutes around part of the Farm. Weekends only.

Farm Tours are on a hay wagon pulled by a Farm Tractor, about 25 minutes around part of the Farm and includes an informative talk about our Farm, what and how we grow our produce. It will include our environmental practices and some Farming history. We encourage questions. For weekday groups.

“Fishing FOR kids” helps kids learn to bait a hook with a worm and fish in our pond on a cane pole. It is Catch and Release, so all fish will be returned to the pond. We provide the poles and the worms.

“Cornfusion” Tree Maze is a three acre maze, made of more than 1,000 Ligustrum Trees! These Ligustrum trees are in the shape of one large ear of corn! From the air it looks like this;


All Youth 16 and under MUST be chaperoned by an adult!
Food vendors are only here on the weekends and just take cash.
Groups under 20 do not need reservations during General Public hours.

Weekend Groups
We encourage groups of 20 or more coming on the weekends to make reservations ahead of time. It helps with crowd control, we only deal with one person for payment and that saves much time! We will "try" to get your group through the lines as quickly as possible. Since weekends are open to the General Public, setting aside a separate picnic area will depend on when you made your reservation and what time you arrive at the Farm. See Groups info!

Farewell letter from Disney archivist Dave Smith

Dear friends, fellow cast members, and Disney fans:

It has been so gratifying to me to have established the Walt Disney Archives and run it for the past 40 years, helping to preserve the history of a company that means so much to so many people around the world. When I reported for my first day of work at the Disney Studio back in June 1970, I never envisioned myself staying in the same role for four decades. But, what started out as a mere job turned into a labor of love.

From a glimmer of an idea, the Archives has turned into a department which continually proves itself invaluable to The Walt Disney Company. I am very pleased to have had the support of an ever-growing and knowledgeable staff and of every CEO of this company from Roy O. Disney to Bob Iger. If these corporate leaders had not championed the Archives, we would not have the department that we have today – one that is so beneficial to the entire Disney organization.

But I won't be going far. Rest assured, I will still be dropping by the office occasionally to help out when needed – keeping up "Disney A to Z," speaking to D23 and other groups, and advising authors that are writing on Disney subjects. And of course, I'll also be on hand to answer future "Ask Dave" questions.

So as I retire, I am comforted to know that I am leaving behind a very viable department for our new director, Becky Cline, to take over. And with your support, I am sure that the Archives will continue to serve our company for many years to come!

Yours always,

Dave


http://home.disney.go.com/foryou/disneyfans/insider/article/?date=20100928&magicKey=dol&mDate=20100928

Epcot Eat to the Beat Concert Series for 2010

One of the highlights of the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival is the chance to enjoy Eat to the Beat! Concerts along with some fine wine and international cuisine. This year there will be a varied lineup of classic rock, soul, R&B, oldies, jazz and funk hit–makers. Concerts are performed 3 times each evening at America Gardens Theatre along the World Showcase lagoon. The show times are daily at 5:15 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 7:45 p.m.Theme park admission is required although the concert is at no additional cost. Entertainment acts are subject to change without notice.

· Taylor Dayne: October 1 — October 3
· Kool & The Gang: October 4 — October 5
· Sugar Ray: October 6 — October 8
· Taylor Hicks: October 9 — October 10
· Air Supply: October 11 — October 12
· Sister Hazel: October 13 — October 15
· Howard Jones: October 16 — October 17
· Exposé: October 18 — October 19
· 38 Special: October 20 — October 21
· Night Ranger: October 22 — October 24
· Billy Ocean: October 25 — October 27
· Starship, starring Mickey Thomas: October 28 — October 31
· Boyz II Men: November 1 — November 3
· Roger Hodgson (formerly of Supertramp) November 4 — November 5
· Jon Secada: November 6 — November 7
· Hanson: November 8 — November 9
· Rick Springfield: November 10 — November 11
· Big Bad Voodoo Daddy: November 12 — November 14

For more information, visit the official Epcot International Food and Wine Festival website.

Are Additional Drivers on my Rental Car Covered by My Auto Insurance?

Many companies now charge a per-day charge for additional drivers. One agentwarned me that we could be arrested if a non-listed driver (even one over 25)was stopped for a routine traffic violation.

Others have said that the car rental agreement would become invalid, resulting in other problems, if additional drivers on the rental car were not "signed on".

My insurance company has told me that I and my designated drivers are covered when I rent a car. What is the REAL answer? Do I have to sign on addtional drivers? Thank you so much.

What your insurance company may not realize, is that when you rent a car, you're required to sign a contract (a legally binding document) and part of that document lists who will be driving the vehicle. In that document, you must either inform the car rental company of who exactly will be driving the vehicle and have them approved by the rental company, or you may tell them (and sign something) to indicate that no one else will be driving.

Additional drivers are generally required to complete and sign an additional driver form at the rental counter. If the rental car was pulled over and there was a person driving who was not listed on the rental contract, the vehicle may legally be considered stolen, and the car is usually impounded immediately and the rental company contacted.

If you had an unauthorized driver, driving your rental car and they were in an accident, any coverage for loss or damage to the rental car that you may have purchased through the car rental company would be invalid because you would have violated the terms and conditions of your rental contract.

When you say "My insurance company has told me that I and my designated drivers are covered when I rent a car." .. is your insurance company speaking of public liability and property damage coverage or coverage of loss or damage to the rental vehicle itself, or both?

In most states, car rental companies are required to carry basic public liability and property damage on their vehicles, up to the minimum limits required by state law. This protects OTHER people and property in case of an accident .... NOT the rental car itself. It automatically covers basic liability or may supplement your own liability coverage that extends to you when you drive another vehicle... this is how you can rent a car even if you do not own a car or have your own personal automobile insurance.

But you must also remember that you are fully financially responsible for the rental vehicle, including damage, loss (due to theft) and a fee for loss of use, should the vehicle be unable to be rented for a certain period of time.

Your insurance company may use the word designated driver, while the car rental company uses the word authorized driver.

I would specifically ask your insurance company about a scenario regarding them extending their coverage (and what type of coverage it would be) from you to a driver that you allowed to drive the vehicle in violation of the rental contract, that you signed, aknowledging that you would comply with all of the terms and conditions set forth in the agreement.

For example:

Ask them specifically what would happen if you sign a rental contract, stating that you will be the only driver of the rental car, but then allow someone else to drive the rental car. Let's say that person got into an accident and caused $7000 worth of damage to a parked car on the side of the road and $8000 worth of damage to the rental car.

Would your insurance company be willing to cover both those items, plus pay for the loss of use fee charged by the rental car company, even though you had signed a contract stating that no one else would be driving the rental car?

I can understand you wanting to save yourself the fees associated with having an additional driver, but make sure that you know what the consequences would be, should something happen while that unauthorized person was driving the car that you rented.

Hope this helps!

Read more about:

Additional Drivers
Car Rental Insurance Overview
Personal Auto Insurance Coverage
CDW and LDW Coverages
Credit Card Coverages

Let the Memories Begin with New Disney Parks Campaign

Disney Parks announced their newest campaign, Let the Memories Begin. For the first time, Disney Parks features the home video and snapshots of real Guests in television ads and other marketing communications. The campaign allows an audience of millions to share in true-life, heartfelt moments.

And, beginning in 2011, guest could appear in a nightly spectacular when photos of the magical memories they made in the park during the day are projected that night onto Cinderella Castle or "it's a small world." This groundbreaking new experience celebrates the thousands of family vacation memories that are created in Disney theme parks every day.

Book tour for Universal book 2011

Orlando Author on Book Tour Will Reveal Why J.K. Rowling Chose Universal – And What She Got In Return

ORLANDO – It might have been the “Wizarding World of Walt Disney,” but the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the hottest thing to hit Orlando in decades, opened at Universal Orlando instead. How come?

It’s a question that has a lot of people scratching their heads. After all, with its fabled “Imagineers” and deep pockets, Walt Disney World seemed the logical choice to bring the phenomenally successful Potter franchise to vivid life.

So why did the Boy Wizard take up residence at Universal’s Islands of Adventure? It seems Universal made Ms. Rowling an offer she couldn’t refuse.

Seth Kubersky, a former Universal team member and Orlando journalist, will discuss the behind-the-scenes story of how Universal's Wizarding World came to be in a series of talks at Barnes and Noble stores in Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville, Florida from October 5 to 9.

Kubersky, a former stage technician and special event supervisor at Universal, is co-author of Universal Orlando 2011: The Ultimate Guide to the Ultimate Theme Park Adventure (The Intrepid Traveler, $15.95).

Among the other insider stories and little-known facts Kubersky will unveil are how Universal’s designers got around the Federal Aviation Administration’s height limit for buildings when they created Hogwarts Castle, and the best ways to beat the enormous crowds that have packed Harry’s world since its opening.

Titled, “Hidden Harry Potter: Seven Insider Secrets of Universal Orlando’s New Wizarding World,” Kubersky’s presentation will also unveil some of the surprising ingredients in butterbeer, as well as where to grab a mug of the wildly popular brew with the least waiting time.

Kubersky is uniquely qualified to reveal the secrets behind Harry Potter’s theme park magic. As technician for the Terminator 2: 3-D attraction, he has ridden the Terminator’s motorcycle on stage. As stage manager for Halloween Horror Nights, he spent whole nights in a haunted house, and performed on stage at the Universal Cineplex as producer of the Rocky Horror Picture Show “Live.” Kubersky also keeps an eagle eye on Orlando’s theme park scene as the culture columnist for the Orlando Weekly, and has contributed to Visit Florida and Virgin Airlines magazines as well as Rudy Maxa's radio shows.

Universal Orlando 2011 can be ordered at a discount at
http://www.intrepidtraveler.com/universal

The “Hidden Harry Potter” events will be held at the following Barnes and Noble locations. All events are free.

October 5, 7:00 p.m.
Colonial Plaza Market Center
2418 E. Colonial Drive
Orlando, FL 32803
407-894-6024

October 7, 7:00 p.m.
Carrollwood
11802 N. Dale Mabry Hwy.
Tampa, FL 33618
813-962-6446

October 9, 1:00 p.m.
Mandarin Village Shopping Center
11112 San Jose Blvd., Suite 8
Jacksonville, FL 32223
904-886-9904

Destination D scavenger hunt to take place in WDW in spring 2011

· Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th Anniversary. Following the rave reviews of Destination D: Disneyland ’55, D23 has announced Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th Anniversary to be held in spring 2011 (exact dates TBD). The event will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Orlando resort, its history and heritage. Panels will include all-new presentations that echo the successful panels at Destination D: Disneyland ’55, including “Walt Disney World: The Way We Were,” hosted by Disney Legend Dave Smith, “Weird Disney” with Walt Disney Archives director Becky Cline, “From Quirky to Collectible: The Wonderful World of Walt Disney World Merchandise,” “Walt Disney World Through the Eye of Television” and “Walt Disney World in Pop Culture,” as well as a special evening event featuring musical memories from throughout the history of Walt Disney World. Other panels, featured speakers and details will be announced soon on the D23 Web site.

· D23’s Great Disney Scavenger Hunt: Walt Disney World. The race is on… again! Following this past weekend’s first Great Disney Scavenger Hunt at Disneyland with 2,000 people and 575 teams, D23 is inviting guests to the Walt Disney World Resort for a fun-filled, two-day hunt around the World. In spring 2011, for the first time in the 40-year history of Walt Disney World, guests will have the chance to scour all four theme parks to win incredible Disney prizes in this official Disney scavenger hunt. The cost will be $50 per team for D23 Members and $75 per team of non-members. Each team will consist of between 2-4 participants, and additional rules and registration information will be available soon at the D23 Web site.

What month is best to travel to Orlando, FL?

While there never is a bad time to visit the “Happiest Place on Earth” and other Orlando Florida attractions, there are definitely certain times of the year that are preferable in terms of weather and crowd control.

During the fall months, October in Central Florida is much like a pleasant summer day “Up North.” Daytime temperatures can still get into the 80s without the roasting temperatures accompanied by brief but powerful thunderstorms that are the hallmarks of Florida’s summer weather. There is also a diminished chance that tropical systems will force a change in travel plans, and since most kids are in school around the country, the crowds are a lot lighter. Add to that a number of seasonal special events like Mickey’s not so Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom, Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival, and Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights, and there are plenty of reasons to travel to Orlando in October.

After the holiday season—one of the peak travel periods in Orlando—the weather in Orlando warms up to pleasant spring temperatures in February—while the rest of the country is still blanketed in snow. Universal Studios hosts their annual Mardi Gras festival, with concerts from some of the biggest musical acts of the past and present. Much like October in Orlando, the February crowds are lighter, making it easier to enjoy some of the biggest thrill rides at Walt Disney World, Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure and SeaWorld multiple times.

What's On The Menu: Porcini Mushrooms

Porcini, little piglet, as he grows in the woods.

I copy for you below the mouth-watering menu of a special, six-course, all Porcini mushroom dinner prepared last Friday evening at Ristorante Marconi, in Crodo.

Chef Denis Croce at Marconi knows that it's time to take advantage of this year's harvest of Porcini mushrooms, and you should as well. For the next few weeks, as you stroll around Stresa checking menus and choosing where that evening's dinner will be, keep the Porcini in your thoughts. Look for it posted on daily or seasonal menus, handwritten as a chef's special, and ask your server if the chef is preparing anything with them that day.

Porcini means little piglet in Italian. But it is considered the king of edible mushrooms. It has a meaty texture, a rich, nutty taste, and a white color that doesn't change when cut. Although they grow in many parts of the world, in a symbiotic relatonship with the trees around them, it is generally known that they grow best with chestnut trees, and perhaps for this, the abundance of chestnuts in Italy as well, the porcini here are considered among the top.

Did you know that Porcini harvesters in Italy are now required to carry a permit and are restricted to a quota of 2 kilo per week? In addition, they must carry the harvested mushrooms in open straw or wicker baskets, this allowing the spores to fall to the ground as they go. All this to ensure that Porcini do not risk extinction through over-harvesting. If you drive through wooded areas in the autumn you'll most likely see some mushroom gatherers. It's also not unusual at all to see people selling them along the sides of the road, as I've seen in the foothills of the Alps in Piemonte.

The correct way to gather, in an open-weave basket.

But to be safe, because it is still not recommended to eat any mushrooms unless one is quite sure that it is not toxic, perhaps let the chefs do the cooking and you the enjoying.

Like Denis at Marconi per esempio... I've added some translations of his creations. Porcini season is now. Eat them now while you can, not dried later or bottled in oil. Look for special dishes like these, and enjoy one of Italy's autumn gifts.

serate a degustazione

PROSSIMA SERATA A DEGUSTAZIONE

24 SETTEMBRE 2010

FUNGHI PORCINI

Salmerino marinato e leggermente affumicato al timo

con insalatina di funghi porcini

(This is char, marinated and lightly blackened, seasoned with thyme and served with a small salad of Porcini.)

Ricotta cotto al forno dell’az. Agr. Bernardini Massimo

con pancetta croccante e funghi porcini

(Ricotta cheese, oven-baked, with crunchy pancetta and Porcini)

Gnocchi di polenta profumati al rosmarino

con stracotto d’asino e crema di porcini

(Polenta gnocchi with rosemary, well-done donkey, and a Porcini cream sauce)

Risotto ai funghi porcini in crosta di lardo

(Porcini risotto in a lard crust)

Coscia di faraona farcita con funghi porcini trifolati

(Thigh of guinea hen, stuffed with Porcini cooked in oil, garlic and parsley)

Tiramisù autunnale della valle Antigorio

Caffé

Costo della serata Vino compreso € 40.00

Yes, you read correctly, the price of this meal at Marconi was only 40 euro, including wine, caffe and dessert. Ristorante Marconi, in Crodo, is about 30 minutes north of Stresa, in a good location for those coming to or from the Valle Vigezzo, or traveling between Italy and Switzerland by auto via the Sempione pass.

http://www.ristorantemarconi.com/index.htm


Porcini photos courtesy of Mushroom Hunting with George and Nick

SeaWorld Cleans Up Beaches From Coast to Coast

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.oceanconservancy.org.

Events at Old Town in Kissimmee

2010 National Scott Firefighter Challenge comes to Central Florida

Firefighter’s will test their fitness and agility, either as a team or individual, in a race against the clock and each other in what is known as the “Toughest 2 Minutes in Sports.”Firefighters will be challenged by an obstacle course set up for five tasks: Tower Climb/Hose Carry, Hose Hoist, Forcible Entry, Hose Advance and Victim Rescue. All those who finish the course in less than 2 minutes will qualify for the Scott Firefighter Combat Challenge-World Challenge.

This Challenge annually attracts hundreds of US and Canadian municipal fire departments at more than 25 locations and is now expanding to countries around the world, including New Zealand, Germany, Argentina, Chili, and South Africa. The Challenge seeks to encourage firefighter fitness and demonstrate the profession’s rigors to the public. Wearing “full bucker gear” and the SCOTT Air-Pak breathing apparatus, pairs of competitors race head-to-head as they simulate the physical demands of real-life firefighting by performing a linked series of five tasks including climbing the 5-story tower, hoisting, chopping, dragging hoses and rescuing a life-sized, 175 pound “victim” as they race against themselves, their opponent and the clock.

Schedule of Events

Thursday, 10/21/10, 5p.m.-Firefighters and family’s night at Old Town. Special discounts-restaurants, shops and rides

Friday, 10/22/10, 10a.m.-3pm-Firefights and families fun day at Old Town. Special discounts-restaurants, shops and rides. Children’s activities, games & displays from area attractions, Tandems Competition and Seeding Relays

Saturday, 10/23/10, 11:30am-12pm-Opening Ceremonies, Individuals and Teams Competition

Sunday, 10/24/10, 10am-Relay Eliminations

Holiday Inn Main Gate East, located just 2.5 miles from the main entrance to the Walt Disney World® Theme parks, and across the street from Old Town. The 444-room, full service hotel features two high-rise towers with interior corridors, Italian tile throughout and most rooms with private furnished balconies. All rooms boost colorful and stylish triple-sheeted beds, granite countertops and high speed internet. Kids love the kid suites and all the extra amenities the hotel offers like the kid’s theater, kid’s playground, kid’s swimming pool, and a large interactive game room for the entire family to enjoy. Be sure to visit Chianti’s lobby lounge with indoor and poolside seating. The hotel offers complimentary scheduled transportation to the Walt Disney World Theme Parks and the Lake Buena Vista Factory Outlet stores. If you book now you can take advantage of the hotels pre-pay special. Book at least 3 nights, prepay and you receive an additional 20% discount. For reservations please visit our web site at www.HolidayInnMGE.com. For additional information please visit www.firefighterchallenge.com

Disney is now the "offiical theme park" of the Orlando Magic

It may sound like an odd combination - an official theme park for a basketball team? official cruise line? - but it's not so odd.

Disney is the 800 pound gorilla here, so the Magic should be joined with them. And think about the name. The "Magic". This is no coincidence!


More details here:
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2010/09/disney-parks-teams-up-with-the-orlando-magic-and-amway-center/

Car Hire Ibizia

Ibizia is the third largest island in the archipelago of Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea off Spain. It is a Pine Island, known for its summer parties. It is the undisputed partying capital of the world. There are many clubs, named Space, Pacha, DC10, Eden, Eclipse, Café del Mar, Es Paradise, El Divino. In the district of Ibizia tourists throng at the legendary “port.” These clubs provide for a scintillating night life, music and the best DJs in the world. Large portions of the island have been declared to be U.N World Heritage Sites, because of their rustic beauty. These places are used for film shoots and recording of songs. There are white beaches, with crystal clear water and enchanting dives. The Egg of Columbus in Sant Antoni, Eivissa, Cala de sa Galera , a historic city and many monuments are there. The place attracts a lot of tourists. Transportation of the tourists is the responsibility of car hire Ibizia. It is well organized and well managed with reservations mostly done online.
Tourists can come to Ibzia by plane or by boat. Car hire Ibzia has its outlets at the air port and close to the beaches. The car hirer collects the keys of the car immediately on arrival if a prior booking is already done. The keys are handed over after verification of his credentials, like the driving license, passport confirming his age to be above 23 years, and an experience of driving for a year.
The hirer has an option to choose from a variety of well maintained, modern cars with special amenities, such as an extra baby seat if required, ski-racks, extensive sound system, luggage racks, Bicycle racks, roof boxes and trailers. These cars are compact to large convertibles, economy to luxury vehicles and vans. They are from Smart ka, 21 and Peugeot to Mercedes Benz E Class, Jaguars, Audi and others. If required additional chauffeur is also provided. All the cars have GPS systems fitted in them to guide the driver with the entire map, the fastest direct route to the destination asked for by the hirer. The rental is all comprehensive, inclusive of the insurance charges and the cost of extra facilities provided.
All paper work right from booking to billing is done by a highly competent staff of car hire Ibzia. This includes providing comprehensive insurance of the hirer and the driver. A special care is taken to ensure safe and comfortable travel for the customer. Cars are hired out only after a check drive. When there are on the run, provision for 24 hour’s road support and also medical support is made available. It makes the hirer absolutely care free. The traveler enjoys visiting all important destinations in perfect comfort.

Car Hire Ibizia

Ibizia is the third largest island in the archipelago of Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea off Spain. It is a Pine Island, known for its summer parties. It is the undisputed partying capital of the world. There are many clubs, named Space, Pacha, DC10, Eden, Eclipse, Café del Mar, Es Paradise, El Divino. In the district of Ibizia tourists throng at the legendary “port.” These clubs provide for a scintillating night life, music and the best DJs in the world. Large portions of the island have been declared to be U.N World Heritage Sites, because of their rustic beauty. These places are used for film shoots and recording of songs. There are white beaches, with crystal clear water and enchanting dives. The Egg of Columbus in Sant Antoni, Eivissa, Cala de sa Galera , a historic city and many monuments are there. The place attracts a lot of tourists. Transportation of the tourists is the responsibility of car hire Ibizia. It is well organized and well managed with reservations mostly done online.
Tourists can come to Ibzia by plane or by boat. Car hire Ibzia has its outlets at the air port and close to the beaches. The car hirer collects the keys of the car immediately on arrival if a prior booking is already done. The keys are handed over after verification of his credentials, like the driving license, passport confirming his age to be above 23 years, and an experience of driving for a year.
The hirer has an option to choose from a variety of well maintained, modern cars with special amenities, such as an extra baby seat if required, ski-racks, extensive sound system, luggage racks, Bicycle racks, roof boxes and trailers. These cars are compact to large convertibles, economy to luxury vehicles and vans. They are from Smart ka, 21 and Peugeot to Mercedes Benz E Class, Jaguars, Audi and others. If required additional chauffeur is also provided. All the cars have GPS systems fitted in them to guide the driver with the entire map, the fastest direct route to the destination asked for by the hirer. The rental is all comprehensive, inclusive of the insurance charges and the cost of extra facilities provided.
All paper work right from booking to billing is done by a highly competent staff of car hire Ibzia. This includes providing comprehensive insurance of the hirer and the driver. A special care is taken to ensure safe and comfortable travel for the customer. Cars are hired out only after a check drive. When there are on the run, provision for 24 hour’s road support and also medical support is made available. It makes the hirer absolutely care free. The traveler enjoys visiting all important destinations in perfect comfort.

What People Say About Stresa: Roger Glover

Back in July, the band Deep Purple began an Italian summer tour by spending a few days here in Stresa, guests at the five-star Villa Aminta Hotel. Their concert at the Stadio delle Azalee di Gallarate was the first of eight stops they would make in Italy. In their 40-year career they have amassed many Italian fans; it seems that Stresa, in turn, can count one of the band members as a fan as well.

Roger Glover, bassist for Deep Purple, spent a quiet lunch sitting alone at a restaurant in Stresa. While eating, he wrote a short and poetic description of the diners around him. He then posted this little essay on his own official website, www.rogerglover.com. He doesn't name the restaurant, "secluded under a roof of vine leaves," but we think he's captured beautifully a moment in time here:

ROAD LIFE 3

Stresa, Italy, 21st July 2010

The occasion; lunch in a secluded restaurant under a roof of vine leaves, slivers of sunlight dappling bright patches on the dozen or so customers - a random cast of characters, tourists, locals, mostly couples. It is a family-run business, waiters quick and efficient, sure-footedly dispensing breadbaskets and menus with practiced hands and seasoned smiles.

Diners and their secret lives; young and old, thick and thin, bellies, shorts, summer dresses, muffled conversations, occasional laughter.

A young man, not yet comfortable in his skin, scans around with darting gazes, measuring himself. He and his girlfriend, still shedding her teenage baby fat, eat too quickly and leave, both tripping over the same step, both looking round accusingly at the offending obstacle.

Two man/boys in cool sunglasses and expensive jeans, ignorant or forgetful of table manners, invade each other’s space, pointing and making points.

A motherly mother primly sitting with her slim teenaged daughter in a sheer dress that hints at the promise of future sex.

A couple in their mid thirties, she, beautiful in her olive skin with beginnings of middle age tracing her aquiline features, her conventional looking companion far too intent on her, crowding her – maybe he has not scored yet.

A late middle-aged couple, no longer interested in each other, sit in relative silence, love long since transformed into a comfortable habit.

I am not a local or a tourist, just a musician passing through, therefore a bit of each. I am reading Aravind Adiga and his free flowing writing style invigorates my discreet observations, scrutinizing more of the infinite details of my surroundings than usual.

What am I to them? A man of indeterminate age, long hair, a baseball cap, eating alone, seemingly happy in his own skin and having a leisurely lunch, reading a book held open by an upturned empty plate, soon to settle up and wander out into the glaring Italian sun with a full stomach and a head full of red wine, into his own secret life.

Roger Glover

What else have people said about Stresa? Click here...

Courtesy of: www.rogerglover.com

Marriott hotels in Orlando Florida

It’s not too late to take advantage of last minute travel deals in Orlando Florida at a hotel chain with a name you can trust: Marriott. With locations all over the Orlando area and the advantage of being just minutes away from Walt Disney World, Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure, and SeaWorld/Discovery Cove/Aquatica, Marriott hotels in Orlando have come together to offer special rates and packages to make the vacation of a lifetime more affordable than ever.

Choose from the following hotels at the Marriott Village Lake Buena Vista:

SpringHill Suites Orlando: With rates as low as $75.00 per night for a 2 night stay on select dates
Courtyard by Marriott Orlando: With rates as low as $79.00 per night for a 2 night stay on select dates
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott: With rates as low as $59.00 per night for a 2 night stay on select dates

Choose from the following hotels near Sea World/Orange County Convention Center:

SpringHill Suites Orlando: With rates as low as $74.00 per night for a 2 night stay on select dates
Residence Inn by Marriott: With rates as low as $94.00 per night for a 2 night stay on select dates
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott: With rates as low as $63.00 per night for a 2 night stay on select dates

For more information call toll-free: 1-888-468-3870 or make your reservation online.

Vault of Walt - new book by Jim Korkis

Ayefour Publishing, the publisher of "Project Future: The Inside Story Behind the Creation of Disney World" is pleased to announce the release of a new book by internationally renowned Disney Historian, Jim Korkis.

"Vault of Walt" is an exciting look into many previously untold stories related to the life of Walt Disney--all from the exclusive research of Jim Korkis and his alias Wade Sampson.

The book includes a Foreword by Walt Disney's daughter, Diane Disney Miller.

The original material in "Vault of Walt" promises to be a "must read" for Disney fans of all types as it focuses on Disney films, Disney parks, and other amazing stories from the life of an amazing man, Walt Disney.

Attached you will find a press release; FAQ; the Diane Disney Miller Foreword; and the book's Table of Contents.

"Vault of Walt" is currently available at https://www.createspace.com/3485212 and will be officially released on Amazon.com on October 3rd (including a Kindle version).

Jim Korkis is available for interviews and appearances for "Vault of Walt". To schedule an interview or appearance, please contact Jim Korkis directly at jkorkis@aol.com.

For additional information related to the "Vault of Walt", contact Chad Emerson of Ayefour Publishing at 334.201.5241 or info@ayefourpublishing.com.

Brief History of the City of Orlando

In 1856 Orlando became the county seat of Orange County, Florida. The “Town of Orlando” was incorporated on July 31, 1875 with an area of 4 square miles. Orlando incorporated as a city in 1885.

Today, the City of Orlando as a result of numerous annexations, has an area of over 100 square miles and is still located entirely within Orange County.

Car hire Spain

Car hire Spain is very important in facilitating tourism in Spain. Every year millions of tourists visit Spain and its possessions in the Mediterranean, the Balearic Islands of Menorca and Majorca and Canary islands. As soon as a visitor arrives, a car is the first requirement for inland travel. There are car hire companies with a fleet of modern, well maintained cars to offer for hire. The car hire facility extends to the islands also. These companies have been in this business of transportation for several years. They cater to all segments of tourists, with different preferences in tune with their pockets.
The choice is a wide range of cars, from compact to convertibles, from economy vehicles to luxury prestige cars like BMWs, Mercedes Benz, Jaguar, and race cars for fun. Small family vehicles to large ones with capacity to take seven to nine and even large groups with special seats for children and luggage carriers as well. Special seats for physically handicapped can be made available. To make the car hire packages attractive, incentives and discounts are offered to the customers from time to time. Bookings can be made on line or on phone with ready quotes available there and then.
Car hire Spain has a number of well established outlets run by a competent regular staff. They ensure that their client travels in comfort and gets his money’s full worth. Properly fuelled vehicles in excellent running condition are provided with an extra driver if required. These are air conditioned cars with direct transmission and navigation facilities. After ensuring the credentials of the traveler like the passport and driving license the cars are let out to them on a reasonably affordable rental. Sometimes 24 hours emergency services are provided on the road.
The offices of car hire Spain take complete care to make the tourist comfortable and safe. The driver and the hirer are insured against accident causing injury or death. All the paper work from booking to billing is undertaken by these company outlets. The documentation is to specify clearly the rental inclusive of insurance charges, the mode of payment and grace period permitted to the hirer, so that the possibility of a dispute later is eliminated.
Most of these offices are located close to the airports, sea ports and the railway stations, convenient for the tourist to approach. Car hire facilities thus connect them to all the important destinations of tourist interest. Whether on an errand, or an official and business trip or leisure, their requirements are met with, to their satisfaction. The rentals are economical. Car hire Spain takes every care to make the hirer travel in comfort, with a care free state of mind and safety so as to make his experience a memorable one.

Car Hire York

Car hire York is of immense importance in the walled city of York in England .The city is situated at the confluence of Rivers Quse and Foss in north Yorkshire England. It has witnessed many major political events and is a heritage city. It is also a major industrial and commercial town. From the point of view of transportation it is strategically placed between the capitals of London and Edinburgh. To the tourists who throng here on business and leisure as well, it offers a number of historical attractions. York Minster is the fore most of all. The University of York, its health services and sports venues like Racecourse, Bootham Crescent, York City FC, all go to make it the 13th most visited city in the world. No wonder car hire facilities are much in demand in York.
Car hire York has a large fleet of well maintained cars of all specifications, providing transportation to all segments of visitors here, on purpose or for leisure, with different pay pockets. These cars range from compact, economy, small family carriages to vehicles with seven and nine seats and big vans and luxury cars and convertibles as well. One could have a dream ride in spacious air conditioned deluxe, luxury vehicles, like BMWs, Mercedes Benz and convertibles, racers etc. for the customer to choose. These cars belong to Economy, Executive, Prestige, Fun and Green collection of cars. These vehicles can be easily booked on line or on telephone prior to arriving in York.
Car hire York, ensures a comfortable and cheap travel for the hirer, across the city. Discount and concessions are offered to the renters and coupons are issued to them to avail of the discounts. This makes the rental packages attractive for the customer and ensures a steady flow of business to the car hire company. Having verified the credentials of the prospective hirer, like the passport and driving license etc., they are provided with the keys of the car to hit the road taking them to their destination. In case of need of a second driver, a properly insured and a valid license bearer driver is arranged for. Thus the hirer undertakes a trip in perfectly comfortable and secure transport, leaving hardly any scope for discomfort during the travel.
The entire paper work, from making bookings to dropping the passenger at the time of send off, is done at the outlets of the car hire company. They spell out the terms of payment, grace period permitted, and details of insurance and taxes absolutely clear, to avoid any possibility of a dispute later. The cars are hired out on daily, weekly or monthly basis depending on the need of the hirer. They are even leased out to the renter if required for a longer duration. All aspects of the hirer’s travel are taken care of, to make it a hurdle free journey by car hire York.

Orlando getting CLEAR 4G coverage for wireless broadband services

Whether they are in town for a convention or a family vacation, all Orlando travelers can benefit from 4G wireless broadband coverage, which is why Clearwire Corporation, operator of the largest 4G network in the country, is making CLEAR 4G available in Orlando as the take-it-with-you internet service for businesses and consumers. With CLEAR, anyone can now use the Internet at speeds four times faster than 3G, whether at home, in the office, or on-the-go within the CLEAR coverage area.

In Orlando, CLEAR covers nearly 1.4 million people. Regionally, the service extends as far north as Lake Mary, as far south as Kissimmee, east to Waterford Lakes and west to Winter Garden. A detailed coverage map of CLEAR 4G service is available at www.clear.com/coverage.

In the Orlando attractions area, particularly in the hotels along International Drive, Irlo Bronson Highway in Kissimmee and the Disney and Universal resorts, free wireless Internet service is a key selling point for hotels, resorts and vacation properties. The CLEAR experience is similar to Wi-Fi but without the short-range limitations. CLEAR uses wireless 4G technology that differs from Wi-Fi because it provides service areas measured in miles, not feet.

With service in more than 50 US cities, customers across the country are looking for a CLEAR advantage for their wireless Internet needs. For a limited time, new customers can take advantage of CLEAR's online-only mobile internet promotion to receive a 50 percent discount on their service plan for the first two months, with overnight shipping included and no activation fee. This promotion is available at www.clear.com/florida.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando at SeaWorld Offers Rooms for $67

Finding a great deal on a Florida vacation usually requires a massive amount of time for planning and research to find just the right place at the right price. Vacationers looking for an Orlando, Florida hotel near SeaWorld however, are in luck. Guests who book a room by September 24, 2010 for a stay between September 1, 2010 and December 23, 2010, at Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando at SeaWorld will enjoy rates from just $67.

Be sure that promotional code PX3 appears in the Corporate/Promotional code box when making your online reservation, or call 1-800-228-9290 in the US and ask for promotional code PX3.

Guests will delight in the convenience of Orlando International Drive lodging that offers complimentary shuttle service to all nearby area attractions including SeaWorld and Aquatica. Kids will love splashing the day away in the one-of-a-kind Shamu Pool and splash zone while parents can relax in the whirlpool or Splash Bar & Grill located on-site.

With such an unbeatable price, it’s hard to pass up this Orlando hotel vacation package that will please every member of the family.

Discover an Orlando SeaWorld hotel unlike any other at the new Fairfield Inn & Suites at SeaWorld, a convenient Orlando, Florida hotel on International Drive near Aquatica and minutes from Universal Studios. Featuring complimentary shuttle service to famed attractions, this hotel near SeaWorld in Orlando represents a premier family destination. Greeting guests with welcoming smiles and friendly service, the Orlando SeaWorld hotel lobby creates an inviting and modern atmosphere with vibrant colors and décor. Start the day off right with a complimentary continental breakfast before exploring top attractions surrounding this Orlando, hotel near SeaWorld. For those looking to soak up some sun, look no further than the Shamu Pool and splash zone, an iconic feature of this family friendly hotel. Depart from an ordinary Orlando, FL hotel on International Drive and encounter unparalleled accommodations and service at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando SeaWorld Hotel.

For more information or to make a reservation, call 407-354-1139, or visit www.marriott.com.