It's a high energy, jumping, jiving and sonically riveting lineup this weekend when Flights and Sounds of Summer dance and concert series features Steve Lucky and the Rhumba Bums with Miss Carmen Getit and  ScrapArtsMusic.  Lucky for Orange County that Steve Lucky and the Rhumba Bums with Miss Carmen Getit is returning for a second Great Park dance party this season on Friday, September 3rd at the Orange County Great Park.  Last year, they definitely helped dancers wear out their soles with a hot mix of swing, West Coast jump blues and R&B.  Great Park dance instructors will get you ready to bop with the Rhumba Bums at 7:30 p.m.

Recycling can be fun, creative and … musical? ScrapArtsMusic will prove it on Saturday, September 4th.  ScrapArtsMusic delivers intricate rhythms, athletic choreography and the greenest and most inventive reuse of materials on stage today. ScrapArtsMusic's closing ceremonies performance was broadcast to a global television audience at the grand finale of the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics.

"We invite everyone to come enjoy these lively performances," said Larry Agran, Chair, Orange County Great Park Corporation. "The Great Park Flights and Sounds of Summer Festival brings people together through unique music, dance and performance art venues."

Saturday night concerts begin at 8:00 p.m.  Before the Saturday shows, come to the Great Park Comedy Corner at 7:00 p.m. and enjoy local comedians Matt Claybrooks with special guests Jackie Fabulous and Chris Adams.  Admission to Flights and Sounds of Summer Festival dance and concert series is free, and parking is just $10.

Upcoming 2010 summer performers include a wide variety of first-rate artists, featuring five-time Grammy Award-winning Blind Boys of Alabama, local surfing champion and artist Donavon Frankenreiter, Big Sandy and His Fly-Rite Boys and Jerry Mandel Swinging the Standards Jazz Band.

Flights and Sounds of Summer Festival is presented by the Orange County Great Park Corporation in partnership with the Irvine Barclay Theatre. Concertgoers can watch the show from chairs provided in a temporary concert pavilion or bring their own chairs to listen to the music from the Great Park Lawn.  

Before each performance, Hangar 244 is transformed into the Hangar Cafe, a lounge-like dining area serving up everything from snacks to full dinners, along with refreshments. The Orange County Great Park is located off the 405 or 5 Freeways at Sand Canyon and Marine Way in Irvine.

The Orange County Great Park with its 1,347-acre master plan is the focal point of the redevelopment of the 4,700-acre former Marine Corps Air Station, El Toro. The Great Park is currently built out to 27.5 acres and includes an iconic tethered helium balloon that rises 400 feet in the air, providing an aerial view of Park development. A $65.5 million development plan to expand the Park to 200 acres is currently underway. The plan will build out a core section of the Park for the most immediate and wide-ranging public benefit, including a sports park, agricultural area and an art and culture exhibition space.

For the entire festival line-up and more information, go to www.ocgp.org

SOURCE Orange County Great Park Corporation

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California Church IMPACT (CCI), representing 21 different denominations and more than 1.5 million members, has announced its endorsement of Prop. 21 citing state parks' benefits for California families. Prop. 21, which will appear on the Nov. 2 statewide ballot, provides a stable and adequate funding source to keep state parks and beaches open, and ensure they are properly maintained.

"As a faith organization, we know how vital state parks are in strengthening and connecting California families," said Rev. Dr. Rick Schlosser CCI executive director. "State parks offer low-cost destinations for families to spend time together in nearly every region of our state. Under Prop. 21 not only will state parks receive adequate funding, but California families will be able to enjoy even more affordable year-round access."

Prop. 21 will give California families affordable access to state parks and beaches throughout California. Currently, many state parks cost as much as $15 for one-time day-use, and an annual pass costs $125. For families on a budget, state parks' recreational educational and cultural opportunities will be more affordable 365 days a year. Under Prop. 21, California vehicles will receive free, year-round day-use access to state parks and beaches for only $18 a year.

Chronic underfunding of state parks has caused them to accumulate a $1.3 billion backlog in needed maintenance and repairs. Twice in the past two years, state parks were on the brink of being shut down. Last year, nearly 150 state parks were shut down part-time or suffered deep service reductions because of budget cuts, and more park closure proposals and budget cuts are expected this year. Thousands of scenic acres are closed to the public because of reductions in park rangers, and crime has nearly tripled.

Approval of Prop. 21 will provide California vehicles with free, year-round day-use access to state parks and beaches, in exchange for a new $18 surcharge. This new surcharge will be assessed as part of California's annual vehicle registration. All California vehicles will be subject to the surcharge, except larger commercial vehicles, mobile homes and permanent trailers. Funds from the surcharge will be placed in a trust fund dedicated specifically to state parks and wildlife conservation, which cannot legally be used for other purposes.

CCI joins a wide-ranging coalition of interests supporting Prop. 21, including the California Travel Industry Association, The Nature Conservancy, Lutheran Office of Public Policy – California, California Teachers Association, California League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), California Action for Healthy Kids and the California State Parks Foundation. For a full list of supporters, please click here.

For more information on Prop. 21, please visit www.YesForStateParks.com or www.facebook.com/YesForStateParks.

SOURCE California Church IMPACT

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More than $200 million in spending and 4,000 Virginia jobs supported by the six million visitors each year to Jamestown, Chincoteague and Shenandoah National Park are at risk if climate change remains on its current path, according to a major new report issued today by the Rocky Mountain Climate Organization (RMCO) and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).   Among the possible changes: a loss of Chincoteague's beach, the  complete flooding by higher tidal waters of historic Jamestown Island – site of the continent's original English settlement in 1607 – and the decline of the brilliant fall colors of Shenandoah National Park.

The report details the wide range of impacts from higher temperatures, rising water levels and stronger hurricanes on Jamestown, which is a part of Colonial National Historical Park (NHP), Shenandoah National Park, and Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge (NWR).  

The RMCO/NRDC report and audio recording of the news event will be available online at www.rockymountainclimate.org/programs_10.htm.

Jamestown is where America's colonial history began, with the first permanent European settlement in what became the original colonies and then the United States. It also is where representative democracy in America began.  Chincoteague NWR on the southern end of Assateague Island on Virginia's Atlantic coast has more than 14,000 acres of beach, forest, and marsh habitats that are home to a wide variety of migratory birds, plants, and other animals. Located just 70 miles from Washington, D.C., Shenandoah NP is a crown jewel of the United States' national park system.

Theo Spencer, senior advocate, Climate Center, Natural Resources Defense Council, said: "Climate change poses the greatest risk our National Parks have ever faced. The natural and cultural resources of Virginia's special places are directly linked to hundreds of millions of dollars in economic activity and thousands of jobs. Unfortunately, Jamestown, Shenandoah and Chincoteague face greater threats than ever before as a result of climate change, and on a scale that will substantially undercut people's interest in visiting those historic and natural sites. By acting now to reduce the pollution that causes climate change we will stimulate our economy and create millions of new jobs while continuing America's long-standing position of technological leadership."

Stephen Saunders, president, Rocky Mountain Climate Organization, said:  "The extent to which these special places could be harmed illustrates why human-caused climate disruption is considered the greatest threat ever to our national parks and wildlife refuges. These three special places deserve particular attention. They show how much Virginia has at stake, from its coasts to its mountains and from its natural and cultural resources to its economy, as people alter the climate. And these three special places are extraordinarily important not just to Virginians but also to Americans everywhere."

Highlights of the report include the following:

• Jamestown, Chincoteague and the Shenandoah NP are linked to a total of 4,030 jobs and $210.1 million in visitor spending.   "But these contributions to Virginia's economy are threatened by how climate disruption puts at risk the natural and cultural resources that draw visitors to these special places," according to the report.
• Higher seas resulting from human-caused climate change threaten Jamestown and Chincoteague NWR. Globally, three feet or more of sea-level rise is now believed to be most plausible by century's end. Because the land along Virginia's coastlines is naturally subsiding, the local rise of seas and tidal waters will be even greater than the global average. The report identifies such possible outcomes as the flooding of "virtually all of Jamestown Island" and "'nothing less than a wholesale transformation'" of Chincoteague after sea-level rise of about three to four and a half feet by this century's end.
• Before Jamestown and much of Chincoteague may be inundated by higher water levels, key historical, archaeological, and natural resources could be destroyed or damaged by storm surges and erosion resulting from stronger hurricanes and coastal storms. At risk is the original Jamestown Fort of 1607, a corner of which has already been lost to erosion by the James River. The barrier island containing Chincoteague is at very high risk of fragmentation by the natural forces of winds and waves, augmented by unnaturally higher seas and stronger storms resulting from human-caused climate change.
• Also threatened by erosion could be resources at the Yorktown battlefield, which like Jamestown is part of Colonial NHP. One key site at risk is Redoubt 10, on the edge of a cliff along a stretch of the York River that has suffered erosion over the years. This was the scene of a key battle won by Revolutionary forces under the command of Colonel Alexander Hamilton, part of the decisive final offense that led to the surrender a few days later of the British army at Yorktown, effectively ending the Revolutionary War. The nearby Moore House, at which the terms of surrender were arranged, is also potentially exposed to shoreline erosion.
• The famous fall colors of the Shenandoah are at risk due to the projected invasion of less colorful pine and other trees considered to be more Southern.
• Higher temperatures are expected at all three sites.  Jamestown and Chincoteague could be 7.2 degrees Fahrenheit hotter and Shenandoah 8.1 degrees Fahrenheit hotter, under one scenario.  According to the report: "With the region's largest temperature increases projected for the summer, intolerable heat may become a real problem (for would-be visitors) at Jamestown and perhaps Chincoteague."
• Extreme weather in the form of major downpours and more flooding could transform Shenandoah NHP. The amount of rain falling in heavy storms increased by 20 percent over the past century, and scientists believe there is at least a 90 percent likelihood that heavy downpours will become even more frequent and intense, causing more flooding. Shenandoah, with its steep mountain terrain, is particularly vulnerable to slope failure and debris flows during severe storms, as illustrated by a June 1995 storm in which about two feet of rain fell in a few hours, causing a mountainside slope in the park to give way, sending trees and boulders the size of houses tumbling downhill.      

ABOUT THE GROUPS

The Natural Resources Defense Council (http://www.nrdc.org) is a national non-profit organization dedicated to protecting public health and the environment, with more than 1.2 million members and online activists.

The Rocky Mountain Climate Organization (http://www.rockymountainclimate.org) is a Colorado-based coalition that works to reduce climate disruption and its effects.

EDITOR'S NOTE:  A streaming audio replay of the news event will be available on the Web at www.rockymountainclimate.org/programs_10.htm as of 5 p.m. EDT on September 1, 2010.

SOURCE Natural Resources Defense Council, Washington, D.C. and Rocky Mountain Climate Organization, Denver, CO.

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 Tails were wagging at Walt Disney World Resort today when Best Friends Pet Care opened the doors to its new, luxury pet resort.  Dennis Dolan, CEO of Best Friends Pet Care, and Phil Bernard, vice president of Walt Disney World Operating Participants, were joined by Mickey Mouse's favorite dog Pluto to welcome the first guests.  

The one-of-a-kind pet resort offers 17,000 square feet of air-conditioned indoor space, 10,000 square feet of covered outdoor runs and play areas, and a 25,000-square-foot dog park exclusively for the use of Best Friends clients and their pets.

"Best Friends is thrilled to open the doors of this special, luxury pet facility," said Dolan.  "We've been looking forward to this day for a long time and we are very excited to finally be ready to open the doors and show off this special facility.  It incorporates the very best concepts from our other Best Friends facilities with some imaginative ideas that we think will delight and surprise our Walt Disney World guests.

The facility, which already has many pet guests booked for the Labor Day weekend, is able to accommodate as many as 300 pets for both daytime and overnight boarding.  Dog owners can choose from a variety of accommodations, ranging from a standard 32-square-foot all-indoor suite, to an expansive 226-square-foot VIP (Very Important Pet) suite with television, raised bedding and private outdoor yard.  Feline guests will spend their visit in the separate "Kitty City" pavilion – away from the dogs – in two- and four-room condos.  There also is a special area for the boarding of pocket pets, small mammals and birds.

"At Walt Disney World Resort, we are focused on providing the highest quality entertainment experiences for all guests.  Working with Best Friends Pet Care, we are pleased to be able to extend that commitment to pets traveling with their owners," said Bernard.  "Our mutual appreciation for even the slightest detail is reflected in this one-of-a-kind facility and its unique services and amenities."

The facility offers a private dog park exclusively for the use of Best Friends guests.  It comprises a walking trail overlooking natural wetlands and several large areas of varying terrain for running and playing, including a 1,300-square-foot "canines only" splash-and-play water feature.  There also are sitting areas where owners can relax and watch their dogs play.  The entire park is secure from outsiders and is available for use after dark.

Other features of the resort include: a grooming salon, which will provide go-home-fresh baths and haircuts for pets, and two 1,100-square-foot camp rooms for play group and doggy day-camp, each opening onto an outdoor play-yard.

Pet parents can choose from a wide range of a la carte activities for pet guests from one-on-one playtimes and social playgroup with other doggy guests, to cuddle time and bedtime stories with staff.  Additional amenities and upgrades include ice cream treats, bottled water and premium orthopedic bedding.  Feline guests can also enjoy private playtimes, activity toys in their suites, and treats such as "Cookies and Milk" or "Tuna on a Ritz."

Best Friends Pet Care resort is located across from Disney's Port Orleans Resort-Riverside at 2510 Bonnet Creek Parkway in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., 32830.  Pricing and other details are available at wdw.bestfriendspetcare.com or by calling 877/4-WDW-PETS.

Best Friends Pet Care resort at Walt Disney World Resort was designed by Mateu Architecture of Palmetto Bay, Fla.  General contractor for the project was Synergy Group of Bloomfield, Mich., and Orlando, Fla.

About Best Friends Pet Care

Best Friends Pet Care Inc. (www.bestfriendspetcare.com) is privately held by Brynwood Partners of Greenwich, CT.  Founded in 1991, Best Friends is a long-time leader in the U.S. pet hospitality industry, providing high-quality boarding for dogs and cats as well as day care, grooming, training and related services.  The Company redefined pet boarding in 1996 with the opening of its first full-service pet resort in Norwalk, Conn.  Since that time, Best Friends has expanded to more than 40 pet care centers in 18 states, always innovating and providing new offerings based upon the needs of pets and feedback from clients.

SOURCE Walt Disney World Resort

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Johnny Rockets, known worldwide for its authentic, all-American menu, announces the addition of 17 Deluxe Shakes to its Company-wide selection of classic Shakes and malts. In celebration of the national Deluxe Shake roll-out and September's National Shake Month status, Johnny Rockets today launched its "Snap and Shake" giveaway. Fans can post snapshots of themselves drinking a Johnny Rockets Shake on the Company's Facebook wall or Twitter page for a chance to win free Shakes and free passes to Six Flags theme parks.

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100901/LA57825)

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100901/LA57825)

Throughout September, Johnny Rockets will award 100 Six Flags passes and 100 Johnny Rockets world-famous Shakes to guests who share a picture of themselves with a classic or Deluxe Shake, in any Johnny Rockets restaurant. Fans must upload their images to the official Johnny Rockets Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/johnnyrocketsus) or tweet the picture to @Johnny_Rockets. The first 50 fans who submit snapshots with a Shake will be awarded two free passes to any Six Flags theme park, nationwide.  The second 50 will each receive two vouchers for a free Johnny Rockets Shake.  One randomly drawn photo submission winner will be able to shake things up at their favorite concert with a $200 Ticketmaster gift certificate.

Made with premium ingredients, Johnny Rockets' Deluxe Shake varieties include Banana, Big Apple, Black Forest, Butterfinger®, Chocolate-Banana, Chocolate Madness, Chocolate-Peanut Butter, Chocolate-Strawberry Kiss, Chocolate Vanilla Twist, Coffee, Mocha Fudge, Orange Dreamsicle®, Oreo® Cookies & Cream, Peanut Butter, Strawberry-Banana, Strawberry Oreo® Crumble and Very Cherry.

"Beyond our all-American classic fare, including everyone's favorite Original Hamburger, Johnny Rockets is renowned for our unbelievably creamy, hand-dipped Shakes...which start with our custom blend of premium vanilla ice cream," said Johnny Rockets Vice President of Brand Marketing and Communications, Cozette Koerber. "And now that all of our restaurants are promoting Deluxe Shakes, we want to show them off through our Guests' photos on Facebook and Twitter." 

Koerber adds, "We know our Facebook Fans and Twitter Followers are great ambassadors for our brand and we want to reward them with some of the things that we like best - milkshakes, amusement parks and music. In fact, we hope to create many more compelling reasons for our Guests to become and stay connected with us by implementing contests, 'secret' events, exclusive announcements and social network specials throughout the coming months."

For more information about Johnny Rockets or franchising partnership opportunities go to www.johnnyrockets.com.

About Johnny Rockets

Since 1986, Johnny Rockets has offered the timeless food, fun and friendliness of classic Americana. Every Johnny Rockets restaurant serves great-tasting food from a menu of all-American favorites, including juicy hamburgers, classic sandwiches and hand-dipped Shakes and malts. It's the place to go for friendly service, flavorful food, uplifting music and relaxed, casual fun. Headquartered in Lake Forest, Calif., Johnny Rockets has 295 corporate and franchise-owned restaurants in 32 states, including D.C. and Puerto Rico, and 15 countries, including those found in Six Flags amusement parks, FedEx Field and on board 10 Royal Caribbean cruise ships.

SOURCE Johnny Rockets

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