Remember Those Who Fought Bravely

Memorial Day weekend is upon us, and as we gather with family and friends at cookouts and bbq's across this great country, let us not forget the soldiers who have fought so bravely for America. The act of serving this nation of ours is incredible, and we are forever indebted to the the men and women who accept this challenge of protecting our vast homeland.

For me, I just have a sense that I am truly lucky to be alive, to be well, and to be an American.

Let's have Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat serenade us on this holiday weekend:



Featured Bluegreen Resort:
Bluegreen Wilderness Club at Big Cedar | Branson, Missouri



Featured Colorful Places Article:
Have a Memorial Day Cookout at Bluegreen Wilderness Club

Leno Redux: Kathy Griffin Crashes Palin's House with Levi

Hear the sharp-tongued comedienne, Kathy Griffin, talk about the upcoming season of her "My Life on the D-List" show. She went to visit Ms. Sarah Palin!

Kathy Griffin Talks Visiting Sarah Palin's Home with Levi Johnston (VIDEO)

Grr...I'm still itching to get tickets to Ms. Griffin live.

Maybe this year...

Featured Bluegreen Resort:
Patrick Henry Square | Williamsburg, Virginia



Featured Colorful Places Article:
Whimsical Williamsburg

Dewyze Wins Da' Big Prize on Idol

America has a new Idol to follow. His name is Lee Dewyze. Below is his performance of "Beautiful Day," which is to become his new single.

I, for one, am "underwhelmed." Pretty glad I did not waste my time watching this season.

Snowflakes at the Super Bowl

It's entirely possible. Well, not for a few years. But it's happening. For the first time in history, the powers that be in the National Football League have awarded a cold weather city the biggest game in sports, the Super Bowl. The new Meadowlands Stadium, the $1.6 billion venue co-owned by the New York Giants and Jets, has just been named as host of the 2014 Super Bowl.

Being a New Yorker, I couldn't be prouder and hope to be in the New York metro area in 2014 for the big game. Now, all we need is for the Giants to have another amazing season like they did in 2008, and we'll be set!

Featured Bluegreen Resort:
Mountain Run at Boyne | Boyne, Michigan



Featured Colorful Places Article:
Slippin' and Slidin' on Snow Tubes

US World Cup Team Chosen!

U.S. Men’s National Team head coach Bob Bradley named the 23-man roster that will travel to South Africa for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The team heads to South Africa on May 30th. The opening game is against longtime foes, England, on June 12th.

Goalkeepers: Tim Howard, Marcus Hahnemann, Brad Guzan.

Defenders: Steve Cherundolo, Oguchi Onyewu, Jay DeMerit, Carlos Bocanegra, Jonathan Bornstein, Clarence Goodson, Jonathan Spector.

Midfielders: Michael Bradley, Ricardo Clark, Clint Dempsey, Landon Donovan, DaMarcus Beasley, Maurice Edu, Benny Feilhaber, Stuart Holden, Jose Francsico Torres.

Forwards: Jozy Altidore, Edson Buddle, Herculez Gomez, Robbie Findley

Here's a little something to get us in the mood...

Top 10 Earning American Idols

Forbes Magazine has released a top ten list of the American Idol alums who have garnered the most bucks over the past year. Forbes' "rankings of the top-earning American Idol alums are based on earnings from album sales, concerts, endorsements and other income from May 2009 through April 2010."

Forbes reporter Dirk Smillie notes that "the pop music market, now saturated with close to 100 of the show's alums, is showing signs of Idol fatigue. Earnings by some of Idol's top vocalists have nosedived over the past year. The show that reshaped television and the music business just isn't minting cash for its stars like it once did."

No. 10: Kris Allen
$672,000

No. 9: Clay Aiken
$800,000

No. 8: David Archuleta
$1.4 million

No. 7: Jordin Sparks
$1.8 million

No. 6: Jennifer Hudson
$2 million

No. 5: David Cook
$2.3 million

No. 4: Kellie Pickler
$4.3 million

No. 3: Chris Daughtry
$5.4 million

No. 2: Carrie Underwood
$7 million

No. 1: Kelly Clarkson
$8 million

There are definitely some surprises on this list. Kellie Pickler # 4? Really? Wow, those red high heels and certain "enhancements" shall we say are definitely paying off. Original Idol Kelly Clarkson continues to rule the charts almost 10 years after her triumph on the original incarnation of the show, which is truly remarkable.

It will be interesting to see which of these stars will fade away and who will continue to shine in the years to come.

Stay tuned!

Bieber Bumps His Big Noggin

I know everyone has had a long Monday. Here's pop star Justin Bieber providing some comic relief.



Pop Stars...."They're just like us." They can be clumsy too!

Featured Bluegreen Resort:
Lodge Alley Inn | Charleston, South Carolina



Featured Colorful Places Article:
BBQ Cooking Tips

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Christina Aguilera Tickets on Sale Today

Get your hot tickets for pop singer Christina Aquilera's new Bionic tour. The perennial vocal powerhouse has a lot to prove with her fourth studio album about to be released to mixed reviews. The first single, "Not Myself Tonight," only debuted at a disappointing #23 on Billboard's Hot 100. The new Bionic album drops June 8th.

Singers seem to be getting really ambitious these days. To already be announcing a summer tour before the new album comes out - that's pretty risky.

Here's "Not Myself Tonight":



Today's Featured Bluegreen Resort:
Cibola Vista Resort and Spa | Phoenix, Arizona



Today's Featured Colorful Places Article:
Arizona Leisure Time at Lake Pleasant

London 2012 Mascots Unveiled

Wow, there's not much I can say about this. The organizers of the London 2012 Olympics have released the mascots for the games which begin in 800 days. I never put much stock in Olympic mascots, but these are kind of mind-boggling. Could it be that the creators of these one-eyed monsters were attempting to make a bad design that makes people talk?

I say,"Mission accomplished!"



Here's a video that explains it all:

Find Out What's Beneath the Water in Orlando

Many adventures lurk beneath the swampy waters of Orlando attraction target="_blank"Gatorland, proclaimed as the “Alligator Capital of the World.” Thousands of alligators and crocodiles make their home at the theme park and wildlife preserve. Gatorland is located on 110 acres of sprawling land right at the head of the Florida Everglades, just minutes from Orlando’s Sunshine Resort and The Fountains.

In addition to the featured alligators roaming the waters, you will enjoy a breeding marsh complete with boardwalk and observation tower. Watch as reptiles slither about during nature shows and get up close and personal with other Florida natives at the petting zoo. Did you know that Florida has one of the largest concentrations of alligators in the entire United States? This gator tidbit along with many other facts about the reptilian rebels will be explained during your visit to the gator park.

Featured shows at the Orlando attraction:

Gator Jumparoo Show
Watch in amazement as some of the largest alligators in the world put on a grand show for the audience. You will see gators with their trademark bright green snouts jump five feet in the air to grab lunch out of a trainer’s hand. The knowledgeable team at Gatorland provides unique facts and other information about the history of alligators and crocodiles.

Gator Wrestlin’
In a shaded 800-seat stadium, watch as a truly brave trainer grapples with a six to eight foot gator using his bare hands. The trainer expertly climbs onto the back of the alligator and strategically points out survival tactics to the audience. Be amazed at how the gator’s aggression is quelled and how the critter eventually falls fast asleep.

Upclose Encounters
Prepare to be surprised by a bevy of exotic creatures featured during this show. Florida’s native wildlife is on display as well as the most dangerous snakes you have ever seen.

Gator Gully Splash Park
Jump in and cool off at Gator Gully Splash Park. Gain a reprieve from the steamy Florida sun at the quarter-acre water park packed with water features that resemble the park’s featured animals. Take advantage of Grandma’s Wet Shack, a fun place for the kiddies to splash and play.

Gatorland is located in south Orlando, just north of the Orlando-Kissimmee line. The gator park is only a few minutes from many of the Disney attractions, and we recommend a visit during your Bluegreen vacation in Orlando. The theme park and wildlife preserve is open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., rain or shine.

Today's Featured Bluegreen Resort:
The Fountains | Orlando, Florida

Dueling Covers of Heartless

Jason Derulo is now embroiled in a duel with American Idol winner Kris Allen to see who sings it better. Both pop singers covered the popular Kanye West song, "Heartless."

Jason Derulo, performing for Billboard:



Kris Allen, performing last year on Ellen:



Which team are you on? Team Allen or Team Derulo?

You Pick the Winner!

You posed, smiled, said "cheese" and sent in your vacation photos. Now it’s time to vote for the winner of the 2010 Bluegreen Resorts Photo Contest winner.

Don't miss your chance to PICK THE WINNING PHOTO!



HURRY! VOTING ENDS JUNE 15, 2010.

B.o.B Tops Billboard Pop Chart

American singer-songwriter Bobby Ray Simmons (a.k.a. B.o.B) has the Number One Pop Song in the nation. Widely known as a rapper and hip-hop artist, the singer has achieved crossover success with this chart-topper.

Here's "Nothin' On You":



B.o.B heads out to Manchester, Tennessee June 11th for a performance at the Bonnaroo Music Festival.

Today's Featured Bluegreen Resort:
MountainLoft | Gatlinburg, Tennessee



Today's Featured Colorful Places Article:
The Great Smoky Mountains

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Will David Beckham Bring Down the US?

I came across an interesting article today about the possibility of David Beckham playing a coaching/advisory role for the English national soccer team during World Cup 2010. The move is strategic on the part of the Brits, as Beckham has spent the last few years playing for the L.A. Galaxy of US's Major League Soccer. Theory goes that he knows the ins and outs, strengths and weaknesses of the American players, and as a result, the English can prepare accordingly for victory.

We all remember the major hullabaloo a few years ago when Beckham, armed with his celebrity wife Posh Spice, was brought over to America for what seemed like a gazillion dollars. Becks was donned the "savior" of the fledgling MLS.

I never bought into the hype then, just like I don't buy into it now. When I strapped on my boots and stepped onto the pitch, I could care less about the opponent or the scouting report.

You play to win, try your best, and at the end of the day the better team will be victorious. That's all I need to know. Lets hope Team USA abides by the same mantra.

The US plays its first match of World Cup 2010 on June 12 against England.

Brazil's World Cup Prep

If I was training for soccer's biggest global tournament, I'd be hitting the fields every day and working out like crazy to hone my skills.

Three players for Brazil's illustrious team had a different idea:



Now, I've never practiced soccer to Beyonce tunes. But, considering how successful Brazil has been over the years, maybe its time I swap out the Linkin Park and pop in some dance music. Couldn't hurt... :)

Lady Gaga Fan Gets Big Surprise on Ellen

Grayson Chance...no doubt you've heard him. If not, check out this blog post from my good friend ScribbleSticks for some more info. The youngster has become an overnight YouTube sensation with his piano rendition of Lady Gaga's "Paparazzi" mega hit.

Watch the clip below of the Grayson's visit to the Ellen Show. Towards the end of the clip, the kid gets a surprise he'll never forget!



Today's Featured Bluegreen Resort:
Bluegreen Club 36 | Las Vegas, Nevada



Today's Featured Colorful Places Article:
You Crack the Case in Las Vegas

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Just for the Tweet of It

Check out Twittercounter's top 10 most followed Tweeters. As you would expect, the usual suspects like Oprah, Lady Gaga, and Britney Spears make the list. But, who is #1 Aplusk? His bio says that he "makes stuff." Apparently, over 4 million people eat this "stuff" up.

Perhaps we'll see some of the following twitter accounts topping the list in a few months. You never know!

Bluegreen Resorts

The Editorial Fraternity here at BG:
Me
VayKtweet
ScribbleSticks

Jack Johnson Hangs 10 in New Video

Watch Jack Johnson hang 10 in a new video off his To The Sea album.

Next up on my list? Learn how to surf and take advantage of the awesome waves out in the Atlantic.



Today's Featured Bluegreen Resort:
Carolina Grande | Myrtle Beach



Today's Featured Colorful Places Article:
Cowabunga, Dude! Bluegreen's Best Surf Spots

Hershey Bears Start Playoff March Tonight!

Who are the Hershey Bears? PA hockey fans know for sure. The American Hockey League team starts its playoff campaign tonight as they play host to the Manchester Monarchs in the
Eastern Conference Finals. Hershey fans will be on hand to root their hometown team on as they look to repeat and win a second consecutive Calder Cup!

Watch a clip from the Bears game in March when they won a franchise season record 52nd game:

Taylor Swift Live Tonight!

If you're in New Jersey tonight and are looking for something to do, check out the Taylor Swift concert at the Prudential Center in Newark. The pop/country siren has taken the music world by storm this year, taking home the biggest prize at this year's Grammy Awards. Swift beat out Beyoncé's 'I Am ... Sasha Fierce,' the Black Eyed Peas' 'The E.N.D.,' Lady Gaga's 'The Fame' and Dave Matthews Band's 'Big Whiskey and the Groogrux King" for Album of the Year.

Here is the video for Swift's mega hit - "You Belong with Me":



Today's Featured Bluegreen Resort:
Bluegreen at Atlantic Palace | Atlantic City, New Jersey

Charlie Davies left off US World Cup training roster

In a surprising decision, US soccer star Charlie Davies will not get the chance to represent USA at World Cup 2010. The star forward's name was left off the training camp roster. Davies was attempting to come back to the national team seven months after a nearly fatal car crash left him with broken bones, a ruptured bladder, and bleeding in the brain. Though his rehabilitation was going well, he was not given a full medical release to attend the training camp.

30 players gather next week in Princeton, New Jersey for training camp. Coach Bradley will select the top 23 for the final World Cup 2010 roster. The Americans open their World Cup campaign against England on June 12.

American Idol All-Time 24

Check out Billboard's list of the best 24 contestants ever to grace the American Idol stage. Do you agree?

Kelly Clarkson was voted #1 (I have to agree wholeheartedly with the choice).

Relive Kelly's winning moment back in 2002:

Stars Perform for "Gulf Aid"

Music superstars Lenny Kravitz, John Legend, Allen Toussaint and Mos Def will combine their musical stylings in Louisiana for the "Gulf Aid" benefit concert. The performance will be held this Sunday, May 16th, to help raise money for South Louisiana fishermen and Wetlands restoration. All of the stars have ties to the New Orleans area and are excited about the chance to give back to help those less fortunate.

Today's Featured Bluegreen Resort:
Bluegreen Club La Pension | New Orleans, Louisiana

Super Cool Soccer Gadgets

I was doing some research today for a new Colorful Places article we will be running entitled "Best New Travel Gadgets" and I came across a cool site which showcases a number of soccer-shaped gadgets. Check it out and place your orders just in time for the FIFA World Cup 2010 starting next month. Awesome!

My favorite gizmo is the "Soccer iPod Dock":




Today's Featured Bluegreen Resort -
Shore Crest Vacation Villas | Myrtle Beach, South Carolina:

Betty White Delivers...

Watched the Saturday Night Live episode last night, and it definitely lived up to the hype in my opinion. Betty was as sharp as ever and in almost every skit. It's amazing what the 88 1/2 year old funny lady can do!

Here's my favorite sketch with favorite players Ana Gasteyer and Molly Shannon returning to revive their Delicious Dish skit:

Mother's Day in Orlando

For those of you in the Orlando area, check out the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival for a place where Disney cartoon characters come to life! The floral exhibition is a perfect getaway for your visit to Bluegreen's two Orlando area resorts: Orlando's Sunshine Resort and The Fountains.

This is your day, Mom

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there in the world. I certainly don't understand what it takes to be a mother, but I am so grateful to have one of the greatest mom's ever. Mom, you've always been there for me. You've always helped me pick up the pieces when I was down, and you are, for sure, my number one fan. Over the years, your strength and guidance have carried me through the darkest and best of times.

Thank you, and I love you.

Your son.

Give Thanks to Yo' Momma

Don't forget this Sunday is Mother's Day, that one day a year where sons and daughters try to give back. I myself will be heading up to Palm Beach County and sharing some Chinese food with the fam (mom's request)!

Take a look at Billboard's list of hot momma's from the world of music. I have to agree with their assessment.

Is American Idol past its prime?

Although American Idol is still the #1 show in the country, its audience seems to be dwindling rapidly. The ratings juggernaut posted its lowest ratings since 2002, causing many to believe the decline will only continue.

What do you think? I have to admit I was a regular watcher a few years ago, but now in the 10th season I'm over it. In a big way.

This is pretty cool though. Check out Lady Gaga's recent performance on the TV Show:



I'm still on the lookout for when Lady Gaga will be coming down to Miami. I hear there will be a big announcement Monday regarding a stop right down the street from Bluegreen's Solara Surfside Resort. That would be awesome to see her in concert.

US Soccer--World Cup 2010 Trailer

Wish I had some friends in South Africa...World Cup 2010 starts next month!



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In the Thick of a Social Media Revolution

I watched this video and said wow at least nine times. I think I am finally buying into the hype. The stats in the video are eye-opening.



Bluegreen Resorts accepts the challenge:
Twitter
Facebook
YouTube
Flickr

My Funny Valentine...

Over the last few years, I've come to appreciate the music of yesteryear, and specifically the songs/sound of Ole' Blue eyes himself, Frank Sinatra. What a golden era the pop music legend lived in and how I wish that I could transport back to that time just to catch one great performance of his. I picture myself sitting in a smoky lounge surrounded by men and women dressed to the nines. I sip a tasty cocktail while Mr. Sinatra starts to belt out some balads, laughing and joking with the crowd as he moves through his set. Ahh, what a glorious time to be alive.

I also grew attached to Frank's music when I was growing up because his song repertoire fits nicely with my baritone voice. I've been known to grab a mic and sing on occasion, and last night turned into an impromptu performance night. Out with some friends at a local Fort Lauderdale establishment, we cheered when it turned out to be Karaoke night. Well, everyone else cheered as I became somewhat nervous as my friends encouraged me to perform.

In thinking about what I was going to sing, I chose "My Funny Valentine" because it was a song I knew pretty well and I figured I wouldn't screw it up. I have to say the nerves that I felt prior to performing immediately melted away as the music came on. I think I did a pretty good job, as the crowd seemed to applaud very graciously.

Here's the master himself singing the classic tune:



I hope that I did him justice last night. There is nothing like performing on stage, spotlight on you, singing to the crowd. What a rush!

What Happens in Vegas.....

With summer right around the corner, the topic of conversation with my friends inevitably turns to planning a vacation. Once I plan to a trip, I make sure to travel light as I want no hassles at the airport. But, where to go? Where can I get the most for my buck? Where can I see pop music stars like Cher, Barry Manilow, and even KC & the Sunshine Band. Where can I get my game on and challenge my luck in order to win cash and prizes? The answer, my friends, is Las Vegas, of course! My close compadres will be mesmerized by the bright city lights and the allure of the expansive Las Vegas Strip. Perhaps, a trip to Sin City and a stay at Bluegreen's deluxe resort Club 36 is in order! We will definitely relish the chance to see and be seen at all of the renowned Las Vegas hotspots.

Lady Gaga Army Parody

This made my Sunday afternoon: hilarious bit from members of the Army's 82nd Airborne Division in Afghanistan:

Telephone Remake @ Yahoo! Video