Media Contact:
Haley Kish, Public Relations Manager
hkish@cypressgardens.com
June 11, 2008

Cypress Gardens, Red Cross team up for Inaugural Paradise River Float-A-Thon to benefit Polk Red Cross

Paradise River at Cypress Gardens Splash Island Water Park Saturday, July 19, 2008 – 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. (noon)
POLK COUNTY, FL (June 11, 2008) What better way to cool off in the summer time and give to a good cause than taking a float on Paradise River at Cypress Gardens Splash Island at the Inaugural Cypress Gardens Paradise River Float-A-Thon?

Imagine yourself without a care in the world, relaxed and floating down crystal-clear waters under the blue sky and bright sun. Even though people must prepare for hurricane season, here is a way to take a break from your cares while helping one of the organizations that is always helping people prepare for severe weather — the American Red Cross.

You can help your local American Red Cross Polk County Chapter by joining in the inaugural Cypress Gardens Paradise River Float-A-Thon. Help raise funds for disaster preparation and relief and to support health and safety programs, while you drift with the current in Polk County's one and only water park at Florida's first amusement park.

So don't wait any longer. Preregister with the Red Cross by calling (863) 294-5941 or via e-mail at polkcofl@polkredcross.org.

Pledge forms are currently available at Cypress Gardens, at www.cypressgardens.com, your municipal pool, or the American Red Cross Polk County Chapter (147 Avenue A, NW, in Winter Haven) or by visiting http://polkcountyfl.redcross.org/float-a-thon.htm

So grab a tube at "Paradise River," and join the fun — July 19, 2008 from 8 a.m. until noon. Floaters will need a minimum of $40 in pledges to participate. Arrive at the parking lot by 7:30 a.m. to ensure time to reach Splash Island by 8 a.m. Full rules listed on the pledge form.

Come for the river, and stay for the day!