What's New in Florida Attractions

. October 14, 2008

JANUARY 3, 2007. The following information is a media advisory for the year 2007 describing special plans and events at Florida's attractions. For detailed information, please call the telephone number listed for each individual attraction or go on-line and visit the individual attraction website.

BILLIE SWAMP SAFARI (Clewiston) A Seminole War reenactment, historic and cultural displays highlight the Big Cypress Shootout Friday, February 23 through Sunday, February 25, 2007. The battle reenactments will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 24 and Sunday, February 25. The reenactment of the Second Seminole War at the Big Cypress Shootout at Billie Swamp Safari is located between Fort Lauderdale and Naples, on the Big Cypress Reservation just north of I-75 (Alligator Alley) Exit 49. The battle reenactments honor the Seminole's struggle and sacrifice to remain in their homeland and will feature authentic weapons, soldier and warrior attire and tactics typical of the Second Seminole War. The three-day event will also celebrate the Tribe's 50th Anniversary of the signing of their Constitution plus music, Seminole food and storytelling, Seminole and pioneer artisans and alligator wrestling. "Period settlers" from around the country will hew wood, iron and silver crafts and depict trading techniques from the Seminole War era. Musical guests include: Okefenokee Joe, Benjamin Dehart (The Cracker Tenor) and Cowbone. www.seminoletribe.com 954/966-6300

BREVARD ZOO (Melbourne) Brevard Zoo will welcome Turkey, Black, King and Ruppell's Griffon vultures to the Zoo in late February and March creating two new exhibits, one in La Selva and one in Africa. In April, the completely renovated pavilion opens to the public with space available for private functions as well as special art exhibits open to the public throughout the year. In mid-May, Brevard Zoo will open their Wildlife Detective Training Academy, an indoor, hands on discovery room where children under age 10 can interact with program animals. Butterflies will also come back for a limited time in June. As usual the Zoo will stay open late in July and August on Saturday nights. Brevard Zoo will offer their annual Boo at the Zoo the last two weekends in October and feature Holiday Happenings during the school holiday break in December. www.brevardzoo.org 321/254-9453

BROADWAY PALM DINNER THEATRE (Fort Myers) Ring in the New Year with "My Fair Lady," playing December 28 through February 17. The Lerner and Lowe songs include "I Could Have Danced All Night," "The Rain in Spain," "I'm Getting Married in the Morning" and "Wouldn't it be Loverly." Playing February 22 through April 14 is "Damn Yankees," the musical comedy about man's obsessions with baseball. Jump and jive to the music of the '30s and '40s with the Tony nominated "Swing!" playing April 19 through June 9. The 14th Season will come to a close with the wonderful music of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice in the biblical tale "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" playing June 14 through August 11. Ticket prices range from $25 to $50. Aside from the dazzling main stage, The Off Broadway Palm presents the wacky musical comedy, "Midlife the Crisis Musical" that takes a comic look at the situations faced in midlife, playing January 18 through March 31. Playing April 5 through May 19 is "Last of the Red Hot Lovers," Neil Simon's comedy about a middle-aged restaurateur who yearns for an extramarital affair.

www.BroadwayPalm.com 239/278-4422

BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY (Tampa) Busch Gardens Tampa Bay sets the stage for a spectacular 2007 with two new shows and some returning favorites. Opening December 15, the park's new musical revue, "Mirage Canteen," evokes the feeling of a 1940's music and dance hall. In January, the park will be seeing green with "Emerald Beat," an all-new celebration of Irish music and dance performing daily from January 17 through April 15. Also in January, the Real Music Concert Series, including Busch Gardens' longest running Big Bands concert series, returns to the Stanleyville Theater. Then, the introduction of "Viva La M'usica" spices things up every Sunday in March with the fiery beat of live bands and sumptuous Latin food. The party continues each Saturday in May with "Michelob May Musicfest" - a celebration of food, fun, ice-cold Michelob and some of country and classic rock's top acts. All of Busch Gardens' concerts are included with park admission, and concert dates and artists are subject to change. For more information: www.buschgardens.com 888/800-5447 or 813/987-5082

CYPRESS GARDENS ADVENTURE PARK (Winter Haven) Cypress Gardens Adventure Park celebrates 65 years of water ski history with the debut of a new show in January. Explore the evolution of the sport and its relationship with Cypress Gardens since the first show debuted at the spur of the moment one sunny afternoon. Many records have been set and firsts have been attempted at the park through the years, and some of these will be revisited through the show. Cypress Gardens will also see a multitude of improvements throughout the park in a variety of areas, from the midways and rides to the gardens and Nature's Way. Additional food and shopping is planned for the year, including some menu changes. The first of these changes is already in place aboard the Cypress Belle. Patrons can now choose from prime rib, chicken cordon bleu and orange roughy for the dinner cruise. All the rides, Splash Island Water Park, gardens, shows, animals, concerts and special events are included in park admission. www.cypressgardens.com 863/324-2111

DEERING ESTATE AT CUTLER (Miami) The Deering Estate offers opportunities for two-dimensional visual artists, photographers, sculptors, and craft artists to display their artwork at their on-site Artist in Residence studio. Artists will receive studio space, an indoor and outdoor work and display area with private bathroom facilities, and access to the Estate during regular business hours. In return, artists must commit to occupying their space and opening their studio to guests at least two days a week for an agreed upon period of time (usually 4-6 weeks). Selected artists are asked to conduct at least one weekly program for the public, donate one completed work of art that is characteristic of their style and their stay at the Deering Estate at Cutler to the Foundation collection, and gift 10% of the proceeds of any artwork sold during their stay back to the Foundation to continually provide funding for the program. The first Artist in Residence is a local Batik artist, Lisa Montero-Blyer who uses traditional Mayaysia materials and methodologies to create beautiful pieces. www.deeringestate.com 305/235-1668

EDISON & FORD WINTER ESTATES (Fort Myers) The Edison & Ford Winter Estates is stunning as a result of nearly $10 million in improvements and restoration to the historic buildings, the museum and the gardens. With the restoration and opening of the Edison Caretaker's House, for the first time, there are hands on science and invention classes for children, monthly programs for tots and parents, educational programming for adults. This newly restored building has never been open to the public before and includes galleries, classrooms and antique cars. It is also available for meetings and weddings. In 2007 the Estates has many special events planned including a dedication of the month of February to the birthday of Thomas Edison. On March 23, the Black Maria Film Festival comes to the Estates. In April, An Incandescent Evening will celebrate the Estates restoration project. Visitors can stroll the Estates and view the newly restored buildings and garden areas for free in the moonlight glow. During the summer months the Estates will host Mother's Day Teas, Father's Day activities, Inventor's Camp, and much more. www.efwefla.org 239/334-7419

FAIRCHILD TROPICAL GARDEN (Miami) Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, one of the world's premier botanic gardens and Miami-Dade County's oldest cultural institution, announces an outdoor sculpture exhibition headlined by world renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly, who will make an unprecedented return to Fairchild with a new and expanded installation of his colorful blown glass art. Fairchild will also display sculptures by internationally-acclaimed artists Franz West, Mark Dion, Joshua Levine, Ursula von Rydingsvard, Michele Oka Doner and Daisy Youngblood as well as works by Wendy Wischer and the advanced sculpture students from Miami's New World School of the Arts. The exhibition will open during the famous international art show, Art Basel Miami Beach, as part of Fairchild's annual exhibition series, "Art & Flowers." "Chihuly at Fairchild" takes place from Dec. 9, 2006 through May 31, 2007.

www.fairchildgarden.org. 305/667-1651

FANTASY OF FLIGHT (Polk City) New and exciting events for 2007 at Fantasy of Flight will include "The Fun with Flight Center" for the kid in all of us, a new tram tour of the attraction (a guided journey of their otherwise restricted areas) and a brand new Audio Tour to begin in 2007 which will be an educational and entertaining look at 20 aircraft from their collection. New stories from new angles to engage the casual observer and enthusiast alike. There is also the New Wood Shop, Machine & Engine Shop and Sheet Metal & Assembly Tours where one can see where restoration specialists disassemble, restore and rebuild aircraft and engines. Highlights include an Original 1918 DH-4 B. Airmail plane, Seversky P-35, Grumman Hellcat F6F-3 and a Lockheed P-38L Lightning. Fantasy of Flight's 10th Annual Mustangs and Mustangs Event-Legends Havin' Fun will take place on April 14, 2007. This is the ONLY Mustang event that features both beautifully restored P-51 Mustang fighters from WWII and Ford Mustang automobiles in Florida. www.fantasyofflight.com 863/984-3500

FLAMINGO GARDENS (Fort Lauderdale) Flamingo Gardens & Wildlife Sanctuary has many events scheduled throughout the year. In January, June and October there are special Reptile Expo & Sales with a Kid's Corner and Stop, Look & Learn information. Antique & Art Appraisals are given in January, and the Fall. The Benefit Flea Markets take place in February, May and November. The annual Spring Garden Event is in March this year and the Orchid/Bromeliad Show with Meet The Bunny is always scheduled for Easter Weekend. Mother's Day weekend brings the African Violet Show & Sale with a special free admission for mothers on Mothers Day. Father's Day also has a free admission special. The 4th of July annual Bazaar and Labor Day Event bookend the summer season. Then there's lots going on in the fall, too. To find out what's happening, go to the website at www.flamingogardens.org and click on Upcoming Events. www.flamingogardens.org 954/473-2955

FLORIDA AIR MUSEUM AT SUN ' N FUN (Lakeland) Sun 'n Fun, one of the world's largest aviation events will again take place at the Sun 'n Fun Complex at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport in Lakeland, FL from April 17-23, 2007. This week-long aviation extravaganza features over 4,000 airplanes, more than 500 commercial exhibits showcasing the latest products in the industry, a daily air show and Friday "night air show." This year's event will also feature an exhibit commemorating the 60th anniversary of the U.S. Air Force. The Florida Air Museum at Sun 'n Fun will host "Snoopy: The World War I Flying Ace," an exhibit featuring factual information about World War I, the "real" Red Baron, airplanes of the war, and more. The exhibition runs from February 3 through March 4, 2007. Then, September 29 through November 25, "At the Controls", a Smithsonian Air and Space exhibit will make you feel as if you are in the cockpit of famous airplanes like the Wright flyer and the Enola Gay through large-format color photographs from their world-renowned collection.

www.sun-n-fun.org 863/644-2431

FLORIDA AQUARIUM, THE (Tampa) The Florida Aquarium is diving into 2007 with a big splash. African Black-Footed Penguins have been spotted in the lobby as part of the new Penguin Promenade. Guests can meet Sunny and Sandy face-to-face as they waddle in daily at 10 am and 3 pm. Another new addition to the lobby will be a brand new sting ray touch tank that will be open to the public in the Spring of 2007. The new touch tank will allow more guests to view the rays. In January and February seniors can receive half off admission and can enjoy many other discounts in our caf'e, gift shop, behind the scenes and eco tours. On January 12, 2007, The Florida Aquarium will host The Tampa Bay Heritage Gala Event featuring The Highwaymen. The gala kicks off a six-week-long exhibit, featuring more than 30 original pieces and is included in the regular admission price. www.flaquarium.org 813/273-4000

FRUIT & SPICE PARK (Homestead) The 2007 event schedule at Fruit & Spice Park includes; Redland Festival: January 13 & 14 the 17, Annual Asian Culture Festival: March 3 & 4; Heliconia, Palm & Flower Show: April 21 & 22; Herbs for your Health: May 5 & 6; Redland International Orchid Show: May 18, 19, & 20; Tropical Ag Fiesta: June 16 & 17; and Hunters Moon on October 26. The Fruit & Spice Park also offers cooking classes including Authentic Thai cooking: March 10 and October 6, Authentic Indian Cooking: March 17 and October 13; Authentic Chinese Cooking: March 24 and October 20; Tropical Ice Cream Making: April 21 and September 1; Thai Fruit Carving and Shaping: May 26 and November 10. There will also be Horticulture classes offered at Fruit & Spice Park; Florida Keys Safari: February 3; Propagaton: February 24, June 2, and September 15, Aquaculture Tour: April 21; Lychee & Longan Workshop: June 16. Hurricane Planning: June 17; Mango Mania: June 23; Banana Workshop: July 21. Bamboo Workshop: August 4. and Vegetable Gardening: September 8.

www.fruitandspicepark.org 305/247-5727

GATORLAND (Orlando) It's ready, set, splash as the "Alligator Capital of the World" announces the spring 2007 opening of Gator Gully Splash Park featuring unique water sources resembling some of the park's most popular residents while maintaining the cracker humor visible throughout the 57-year old theme park. Over a quarter-acre and ready to soak, Gator Gully Splash Park includes a row of giant egrets spilling water from their beaks; dueling water guns mounted on the backs of two giant gators lined up and waiting for a friendly squirtfest with your neighbor; an ol' jalopy overrun with water and places to splash; a bucket tree that is just perfect for a slow dash and spray for the little ones; and Grandma's Wet Shack, a veritable fountain of water-based fun for kids of all ages to splash, squirt and play in truckloads of cool H2O. To find out more about "Orlando's only Theme Park with Bite and Attitude," visit us online at: www.gatorland.com or call 1-800-393-JAWS.

GHOST TOURS OF ST. AUGUSTINE (St. Augustine) Ghost Tours of St. Augustine and Potter's Wax Museum are excited to introduce: "Ghosts, Myths and Mysteries of St. Augustine." Our licensed guide in period dress will escort the guests down the dark streets experiencing the original historic district. They will hear ghost stories, myths, and mysteries of St. Augustine. This tour will take them into Potter's Wax Museum, as they join more than 150 figures that seem to come to life in front of your eyes. This tour is rated "G" and fun for the whole family.

www.ghosttoursofstaugustine.com 800/461-1009 or 904/829-1122

HISTORICAL MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN FLORIDA (Miami) Enjoy a weekend of browsing and buying the world's largest selection of antique maps at the "14th Annual Miami International Map Fair," January 27 & 28. See recovered artifacts including pewter plates, silver spoons, glass bottles and tortoise-shell combs from the partially sunken city of "Port Royal, Jamaica," on display February 16 - June 3. This once-in-a-lifetime exhibition is jointly organized by the Institute of Jamaica and the Historical Museum of Southern Florida. Historic and eco-tours are offered year-round by boat, coach, bike or foot throughout many surrounding neighborhoods. "Water Stories," on display June 21, 2007 through January 20, 2008, will explore our interaction with water in South Florida over the past 10,000 years through a family-friendly, multi-sensory experience with four dimensions: nourishment, transportation, recreation and environmental destruction. Celebrate a South Florida tradition at the "32nd Annual Harvest," November 17 &18, an arts and crafts festival to benefit the Historical Museum.

www.historical-museum.org 305/375-1492

HOMOSASSA SPRINGS WILDLIFE STATE PARK (Homosassa) The Park has been busy making new and improved habitats for its Florida wildlife. A new Birds of Prey Exhibit will include expanded habitats for Barn Owls, Great Horned Owls and Barred Owls. The Red and Grey Foxes will move into new quarters with attached night houses. The River Otters will enjoy an expanded pond habitat with night houses. Other improvements include the replacement of several bridges and construction of more elevated boardwalks. All trails are either paved or handicapped accessible boardwalks. The Children's Education Center is repainted with new exhibits and activities. The handling pool at the Manatee Care Center is being refurbished. A Songbird Aviary has been added at the Boat Docks at the Park's Visitor Center. A new State-of-the-Art Wildlife Care Building is being built. It will provide, expanded food preparation and wildlife care areas, offices and housing for interns.

www.homosassasprings.org 352/628-5343

IMAGINARIUM HANDS ON MUSEUM (Fort Myers) Coming in Winter 2007, the Imaginarium will be the exclusive host in Florida of "Robots: The Interactive Exhibit." Mark your calendar for January 20-April 22, 2007 at the Imaginarium because when the exhibit leaves, it will not return to Florida before 2010! Based on the hit movie, "Robots" this exciting interactive exhibit combines the fun and imagination of the movie with hands-on educational experiences through 15 interactives! "ROBOTS: The Interactive Exhibition" combines the magic of film while providing visitors with an immersive, in-depth look into the exciting world of Robots, the movie, as well as real-life robotics. The exhibit will entertain guests of all ages, generating excitement about the science of robots and the future of robotics, while ultimately answering the question, "What really is a robot?" This exhibition and its national tour are made possible by the generous support of the Ford Motor Company Fund. With more than 15 interactives, the exhibit includes: Robot Explorers, "Paint-A-Bot" Artificial Intelligence, Build-A-Wonder-Bot, CityScape, Crosstown Express, Robot Round-up, Dominos Workspace and Future of Robots and Industrial Robots. Don't miss your chance to experience this one-of-a-kind movie-based interactive exhibit coming to the state of Florida ONLY at the Imaginarium in 2007!

www.cityftmyers.com/attractions/imaginarium.htm 239/337-3332

ISLAND QUEEN CRUISES (Miami) In 2007, Island Queen Cruise's will introduce three all inclusive special cruises on three different holidays. Our "Mother's Day Brunch Cruise" will take place on May 13, 2007, and it will include food stations, beverages, mimosas and an open bar. All the mothers will enjoy the relaxation and the magnificent views around Miami. The next cruise, "4th of July Cruise" will take place on our Independence Day in 2007. The cruise will include food, beverages and cocktails while the boat is set up to see the spectacular fireworks display in downtown Miami. The last special cruise will be, "New Year's Eve 2007 Cruise." This unforgettable cruise will celebrate the coming year by an all inclusive cruise with food, beverages and cocktails. This amazing night includes the fireworks that light up the Miami sky at midnight provided by the City of Miami. Our sightseeing cruises have been navigating Biscayne Bay for over 50 years. Today the cruises run day and night, 365 days a year from 11 am to 9 pm, every hour on the hour. It's fun for all ages!

www.islandqueencruises.com 305/379-5119

JOHN & MABLE RINGLING MUSEUM OF ART (Sarasota) John Ringling's personal vision has evolved into a world-renowned cultural legacy with the opening of the Arthur F. and Ulla R. Searing Wing at The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. The Searing Wing is the final building to be completed as part of the Ringling Museum Master Plan. The additional 30,000 square feet of exhibition space is stunning in presentation and well equipped for today's major traveling exhibitions. Two exciting exhibitions in early February 2007 will kick-off the Wing's grand opening: "Encouraging American Genius: Master Paintings from the Corcoran Gallery of Art," February 3 - April 29, 2007. This exhibition of treasured American Paintings spans 150 years and showcases our nation's history through the eyes of American artists; "Bedazzled: 5,000 Years of Jewelry from the Walters Art Museum," February 3 - April 29, 2007. This exhibition features the adorning beauty of 5,000 years of sparkling diamonds, gems and gold. www.ringling.org 941/359-5700

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX (Kennedy Space Center) Until now, only astronauts could experience the sensations of 3...2...1...lift-off. Now, it's your turn as the Shuttle Launch Experience, a $60 million attraction, opens Friday, May 25, 2007. The 44,000 square foot Shuttle Launch Experience at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will take visitors on a simulated journey to experience launching into space from Earth aboard a Space Shuttle. Crew members will strap in for launch in a one-of-a-kind motion based simulator that replicates the sights, sounds, rattle and roll of lift-off to make the most realistic simulation of a launch ever created, culminating with a breath-taking view of Earth from space. The brand new attraction will create an immersive, first person experience infused with interviews and presentations by NASA Space Shuttle Astronauts, who will share their riveting personal stories with visitors. After this experience, visitors will never view a launch in the same way.

www.kennedyspacecenter.com 321/449-4400

MARINELAND OF FLORIDA (Marineland/St. Augustine) Marineland's Dolphin Conservation Center is preparing to host outdoor weddings and private parties beginning in spring of 2007. A large event area with protection from the elements has been created and will be completed with decorative fencing and landscaping. The perfect setting for memorable occasions will now have space for over 400 guests. The Marineland Caf'e will open soon for the comfort and convenience of our guests, primarily offering sandwiches and items for quick meals. Additional efforts focus on expanding what we offer for children. A summer camp program is in the process of being developed for implementation in 2007. Finally, self-guided curriculum is being written for use by teachers with groups of school age children. It is being designed to be used in conjunction with the educational signage being installed around the dolphin habitats. www.marineland.net 888/279-9194 or 904/460-1275

MEDIEVAL TIMES DINNER & TOURNAMENT (Kissimmee) Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament - Kissimmee: Renovations started in January 2006 and the following upgrades are completed: new courtyard with meandering walkways, a 38 foot video display sign, and the Hall of Arms (main waiting area) was expanded by close to 4,000 square feet which includes a new gift shop area and bar. The front of the castle has dramatically changed with the addition of a new ticketing building with a drawbridge and moat. To light the way, seven foot gas torches have been added to the front of the towers of the castle. The back of the house has also had an upgrade with a completely new "state of the art" kitchen. Returning guests will notice that the entrance into the Ceremonial Hall has also changed with the renovations.

www.medievaltimes.com 1-888-935-6878

MIAMI CHILDREN'S MUSEUM (Miami) Upcoming events for 2007 include:

"Miami Children's Museum Football Challenge," taking place Saturday, December 16, 2006 - Sunday, February 4, 2007. Are you ready for some football? Join us for this brand-new exhibit where visitors will encounter multiple interactive football activities. We invite you to step on to the field and see if you have what it takes! "Let's Play Railway" takes place Saturday, February 24, 2007 - Saturday, May 5, 2007. "Let's Play Railway!" is making its stop at the Miami Children's Museum! This traveling exhibit is built on the immense popularity of BRIO's educational wooden railway toys. Children can climb aboard this life-size train exhibit! "Oh Seuss! Off to Great Places!" will be featured during the period from May 2007 - March 2008. Visit this dynamic exhibit based on the magical world of Dr. Seuss! This exhibit introduces children and families to humor, serious learning, critical and creative thinking and exploration. Join the Cat in the Hat and partake in interactive activities for kids of all ages.

www.miamichildrensmuseum.org 305/373-5437

MIAMI MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & PLANETARIUM (Miami) A massive alien invasion has landed in South Florida and has taken over the Miami Museum of Science & Planetarium. "The Science of Aliens," a blockbuster exhibition that explores the real science behind the search for alien life, is an interactive exhibit that will debut in South Florida as it begins its North American tour. This exhibit is the largest of its kind to explore humanity's attachment to the search for alien life while using science to distinguish fact from fiction. This exhibit will be at the Miami Museum of Science through May 6, 2007. www.miamisci.org 305/646-4200

MIAMI SEAQUARIUM (Miami) Miami Seaquarium has announced plans to unveil a new dolphin habitat in the first quarter of 2007. The new habitat will be home to the park's expanded Swim with our Dolphins program, which will feature a two hour up-close and personal dolphin interaction experience that includes an intimate swim with a dolphin, an interactive educational segment in a classroom environment and one day's admission to Miami Seaquarium. Home to eight Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins, the new habitat features a 12,000 square foot, 700,000 gallon dolphin pool surrounded by an 8,000 square foot facility to include reception area, education seminar room, changing facilities and rest rooms. Miami Seaquarium, South Florida's most popular tourist attraction, is a family-oriented marine-life park open to the public 365 days a year. The park provides visitors with a greater understanding and appreciation for marine life through shows, presentations and exhibits. More information on Miami Seaquarium is available at www.miamiseaquarium.com 305/361-5705

THE MORIKAMI MUSEUM AND JAPANESE GARDENS (Delray Beach) The Morikami is proud to present five new exhibitions in 2007. From January 11 - March 18, the Museum will host "The Peacock's Feather: Male Accessories of Old Japan" and "Traditional Japanese Ceramics." Peacock's Feather will showcase the miniature sculptures, or Netsuke, worn by the well-dressed gentlemen of Japan in the 18th and 19th Centuries. Ceramics will feature 64 pieces representing many of Japan's traditional kiln sites and works by such proponents of the Japanese mingei, or folk art movement. From April 3 - June 10, two exhibitions - "The Secret Life of Japanese Textiles" and "Japanese Combs" - will be on display. Textiles explore the fabrics, surface decoration and traditional Japanese costumes and other textiles. Combs features designs in lacquered wood, ivory and tortoiseshell, with inlays of coral and mother-of-pearl. Pastimes and Amusements of the Japanese will run from June 26 through September 16 and explores the material culture of Japanese play and leisure activities through games, toys and other implements of play and representations of leisure and playful expression in art. www.morikami.org 561/495-0233

MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry) (Tampa) BEAM (Be Enthusiastic About MOSI) holds its twelfth annual wine tasting event, "Einstein on Wine," February 3, 2007, from 6 pm to 9 pm at the Museum of Science & Industry. The event, hosted by BEAM and ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, combines wine, food, music, and a silent auction in a fundraising event for all to enjoy. They're Back! Come and explore the aquatic reptiles and mammals from past and present! "Monsters of the Deep," an all new marine science exhibition, covers 15,000 square feet of exhibit space combining both modern and prehistoric animals-ends April 29, 2007. Don't miss the 2007 "Bay Area Renaissance Festival" on February 17, 18, 24, 25; March 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 29, 30. Also in February 2007, join us for the "Senior Back Woods Walk," including bingo and numerous other activities sponsored by Senior Connection. www.mosi.org 813/ 987-6000

MUSEUM OF ART FORT LAUDERDALE (Fort Lauderdale) Exhibitions at Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale for 2007 include the ongoing exhibitions "The Indigo Room" and "The Spectacle of Life". Other 2007 exhibitions include: "Cradle of Christianity: Jewish & Christian Treasures from the Holy Land" through April 15; "Chicano Visions: American Painters on the Verge" and "Karen Appel: In Memoriam" through May 1; "Unbroken Ties: Dialogues in Cuban Art" May 11-September 24; "Situation Comedy: Humor in Recent Art" June 1 - September 3; "Inspired by China: Contemporary Furniture makers Explore Chinese Traditions" November 30 - March 31, 2008.

www.moafl.org 954/525-5500

MUSEUM OF ARTS AND SCIENCES (Daytona Beach) New 2007 Exhibitions opening at Museum of Arts and Sciences include "Gordon Parks' Daytona Photographs" February 9 - May 6 and "Anthony Quinn's Eye: A Lifetime of Creating and Collecting Art" February 16 - May 20. The Museum of Arts and Sciences has a full schedule of special events planned for 2007 including the "13th Annual Antique Show & Sale" taking place January 19 - 21, "Laser Light Show" January 27, "Archaeology Festival - Ruins of Volusia County" March 31, "Renaissance Gala" on May 19 as well as a full schedule of classes throughout 2007. For more complete information and details of events, please contact the museum directly. www.moas.org 386/255-0285

MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND HISTORY (MOSH) New exhibits galore await at Jacksonville's Museum of Science & History. MOSH is scheduled to open two new permanent exhibitions in 2007. A new aquarium-based exhibition focusing on Florida sea life is scheduled to debut in Summer 2007. And, the anticipated completion date for "The Amazing 60-Foot Man," an exhibit exploring the science of the human body, is Fall 2007. These two new core exhibitions will allow new exploration and programming to take root. Dinosaurs will roam MOSH's second-floor gallery as they return from extinction to delight and educate tens of thousands of visitors during the summer months. These prehistoric beasts, along with a cast of Ice Age Mammals, will bring history to life. Guests will travel back in time as they explore the mysterious realm of these fascinating creatures. Don't miss this dynamic, internationally acclaimed exhibition! www.themosh.org 904/396-6674

PIRATE'S DINNER ADVENTURE (Orlando) Pirate's Dinner Adventure's band of dastardly pirates, cast and crew are celebrating 10 years of pillaging, plundering and performing for audiences aboard their fully-rigged pirate galleon in Orlando, Florida. The attraction offers the world's most interactive dinner show experience; more than 100 guests are invited to participate in every show. Only at Pirate's Dinner Adventure can guests don a costume and become a pirate, if only for one memorable night. Pirate's Dinner Adventure not only serves up action and adventure, but also a four-course feast to satisfy the heartiest of appetites. New developments planned for 2007 include the addition of a VIP package complete with special pre-show appetizers and beverages in a VIP lounge, front-row seating at the show, and other luxury upgrades. The attraction will also introduce new and rotating specialty acts every three months -- from high wire feats of bravery to underwater surprises.

www.piratesdinneradventure.com 1-800-866-2469 or 407/248-0590

POTTER'S WAX MUSUEM (St. Augustine) Ghost Tours of St. Augustine and Potter's Wax Museum are excited to introduce: "Ghosts, Myths and Mysteries of St. Augustine." Our licensed guide in period dress will escort the guests down the dark streets experiencing the original historic district. They will hear ghost stories, myths, and mysteries of St. Augustine. This tour will take them into Potter's Wax Museum, as they join over 150 figures that seem to come to life in front of your eyes. This tour is rated "G" and fun for the whole family. www.potterswax.com 800/584-4781

SARASOTA JUNGLE GARDENS (Sarasota) Sarasota Jungle Gardens is proud to announce their new program "Partners In Education" "P.I.E.". This is an innovative academic program designed to reach underprivileged children, at risk teens and seniors in Manatee and Sarasota counties. P.I.E. provides educational programs through the Gardens for individuals from over 14 organizations and works with special educational units from the Manatee and Sarasota county schools. The programs are designed to provide unique opportunities for individuals to grow through education and realize their potential. The P.I.E program utilizes business resources throughout the community which enables the Gardens to reach out to these organizations by providing special educational programs to these children, teens and adults at no charge to the organizations. These programs are so dynamic they can be the defining moment in changing someone's life. For more information on the "Partners In Education" program, please contact: James Payne, manager P.I.E., Sarasota Jungle Gardens at 941-355-1112 ext. 315. www.sarasotajunglegardens.com 941/355-1112

SEAWORLD ORLANDO (Orlando) At SeaWorld Orlando, the exciting 2007 events include "Bud & BBQ" on January 27, February 3, 10, 17. Country music and classic rock come together as four high-octane concerts feature some of today's brightest stars. "Jack Hanna Weekend" on February 3 - 4 and November 10 - 11: SeaWorld welcomes one of its most popular special guests -- celebrity animal expert Jack Hanna. Recognized world over for his deep knowledge of, and boundless enthusiasm for, wild animals, "Jungle Jack" introduces guests to his feathered and furry friends in his own inimitable way. "Viva La Musica" March 10, 17, 24, 31: SeaWorld pulsates to the high-energy sounds of today's hottest Hispanic artists during "Viva La Musica." Saturdays in March, guests can groove to a fiery beat, sample sumptuous Latin foods and enjoy their favorite SeaWorld shows, rides and attractions. "SeaWorld's Halloween Spooktacular," October 6 - 7, 12 - 14, 20 - 21, 27 - 28: Halloween meets the sea in October during "SeaWorld's Halloween Spooktacular." An underwater "fantasea" comes alive as youngsters trick-or-treat among friendly sea witches, octopuses, mermaids, pumpkin fish and more. Children can dress-up in their favorite costume and play with sea fairies. www.seaworld.com 407/351-3600

ST. AUGUSTINE ALLIGATOR FARM (St. Augustine) 2007 will be an even more exciting year for the St. Augustine Alligator Farm! The Birds of Africa exhibit is our newest exhibit. We have imported the largest African vultures to join the current residents: Maribou storks, West African Crown cranes, and Guinea Fowl. These vultures have a wing span of over 9 feet. They are rehab birds from South Africa. Each has their own interesting history, and all will become part of a breeding program in North America to help preserve this endangered species. Also don't miss our brand new snack bar, fully renovated and more refreshing then ever.

www.alligatorfarm.com 904/824-3337

ST. AUGUSTINE LIGHTHOUSE AND MUSEUM (St. Augustine) The St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum welcomes you to visit the S.S. United States. Considered one of the greatest ocean liners ever built in the U.S., the vessel was nearly 1,000 feet in length, and could reach a top speed of 43 knots or nearly 50 mph. Costing $79 million to build in 1952 the vessel was only in service for 17 years. Victim of the success of Jumbo Jets and labor unrest, the S.S. United States was docked in Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company in Newport News, Virginia in 1969, and her boilers have not been fired since. Experience the traveling exhibit S.S. United States, from March 2 - April 27, 2007 at the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum. This exhibition was organized by The Mariners' Museum, Newport News, Virginia. The St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum invites you to find out how fishes think and what makes them bite or not bite your lure with "Tricking Fish: How and Why Lures Work" a traveling exhibit that will be featured at The St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum from March 2 to April 27. This exhibition was organized by the James Ford Bell Museum of Natural History, Minneapolis, Minnesota. www.staugustinelighthouse.com 904/829-0745

TAMPA'S LOWRY PARK ZOO (Tampa) In early 2007, extensive renovations to the Asian Gardens exhibit area -- one of the oldest habitat areas at the zoo -- will be completed. Each area within Asian Gardens will reflect a particular style of architecture with new exhibits including a Malayan tapir garden, a large aviary themed after the Indonesian island of Sulawesi, and bearded pigs. In spring of 2007, the zoo has planned an expansion of the Safari Africa habitat area with a collection of new exhibits to be known as the "Ituri Forest," adding 1.5 acres of animal exhibit space and several new African species. Also in the spring, the zoo will welcome a colony of African penguins to a spacious new outdoor exhibit presently under construction near the entrance to Safari Africa. www.lowryparkzoo.com 813/935-8552

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO (Orlando) Blue Man Group, the wildly successful live entertainment experience is coming to Universal Orlando Resort, opening June 2007.The unique style of Blue Man entertainment has been experienced by more than 10 million people worldwide. The show will combine music, comedy and multimedia theatrics to create the blissful party atmosphere that is a Blue Man Group trademark. Blue Man Group will perform from a specially created theater at Universal Studios. The building once housed Nickelodeon Studios and is being re-designed as a 1,000-seat theater complete with its own box office. The Blue Man Group show is being custom-designed for Universal Orlando and will include elements of the group's existing shows as well as newly created material. Tickets for the new show go on sale immediately, with opening night set for June 7. Contact the Universal ticket line at 888/340-5476. www.universalorlando.com 407/363-8000

WALT DISNEY WORLD (Orlando) We invite you to come live out Disney dreams like never before during The Year of a Million Dreams, a first-of-its-kind event, celebrating your dreams and the dream-making magic Disney Cast Members create for our guests every day. As part of this celebration, we are debuting new attractions and special events that immerse you in the world of your favorite characters. At Epcot, board a "clamobile" and glide along with Marlin, Dory, and more in a quest to find Nemo. At Disney's Animal Kingdom, catch Finding Nemo - The Musical, a visually-inventive, original stage show that merges breathtaking puppetry with live performances. And be at the center of all the laugh-packed fun at the newest Magic Kingdom attraction the Monsters, Inc. Comedy Club. Plus, you can embark on a quest for Magic Kingdom treasures at our brand-new special event, Disney's Pirate & Princess Party.

www.DISNEY.com 407/934-7639

The Florida Attractions Association is a trade association, founded in 1949, representing more than 90 attractions including astronaut, historical, cultural, military and scientific museums; castles; collections of the unique and different; dinner entertainments; dolphin and marine parks; exhibitions of alligators, lions, monkeys, parrots, butterflies and manatees; gardens; lighthouses; Indian villages; sightseeing airboats; sightseeing trains, cruises and boat tours; theme parks; towers; water parks; and zoological parks.

Other attraction and affiliate members of the Florida Attractions Association are: Adventure Island, Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum, Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum at Okalee Village, Babcock Wilderness Adventures, Butterfly World, Canoe Outpost-Peace River, Captain Doug's Florida Boat Tours, Captiva Cruises, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Colonial Spanish Quarter Museum, Conch Tour Train, Coral Castle, DAYTONA USA, Discovery Cove, Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede, Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Everglades Alligator Farm, Everglades Wonder Gardens, Florida Botanical Gardens, Historic Bok Sanctuary, Jungle Queen Riverboat, Key West Aquarium, Lightner Museum, Lion Country Safari, Mai-Kai Polynesian Dinner Attraction, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Miami Metrozoo, Miccosukee Indian Village, Monkey Jungle, Mote Aquarium, Old Florida Museum, Old St. Augustine Village, Old Town Trolley Tours of St. Augustine, Oldest Wooden School House in the U.S.A., Parrot Jungle Island, Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth, Ripley's Believe It Or Not! Museum - St. Augustine, Ripley's Believe It Or Not! Odditorium, Sawgrass Recreation Park, Shipwreck Island Waterpark at Adventure Landing, Silver Springs, Sky Venture, Southwest Florida Museum of History, St. Augustine Scenic Cruise, St. Augustine Sightseeing Trains, The Pier, Theater of the Sea, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Wannado City, Weeki Wachee Springs, Wet 'n Wild, and World Golf Hall of Fame & IMAX Theater.

The information contained in this media advisory has been thoroughly researched and obtained from sources believed to be reliable. Every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. The Florida Attractions Association cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions.

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