• by Richard Whitman , Columnist, July 28, 2015

Way back in 2004, University of Central Florida graduate and Woo Creative Founder Ryan Boylston began hosting an event called Arnold Day. Arnold Day, which started with just Boylston and a few friends gathering at Orlando bar Lazy Moon to watch Schwarzenegger movies on the actor's birthday, has grown to a 1,200-person event.

Of the event's genesis, Boylston said: "Way back when, it was a simple concept… two Arnold fans, a 19-inch TV, a VCR -- that's right, a VCR -- and the greatest pizza/beer establishment in Orlando."

Each year, diehard Arnold fans showed up in their favorite Arnold movie attire, to share their love for Mr. "I'll be back!"

On how the day will go down, Lazy Moon Co-Owner Tim Brown said: "Ryan's awesome. On Arnold Day, we'll serve German or Austrian beers, bratwurst pizza and the event has caught on with both employees and customers. We're not sure Arnold will show up, but it's a fun day either way."

The event also supports Boylston's fundraising goals, which include collecting $20,000 which will be donated to Boynton Beach-based CJ Foundation which provides financial resources to families with special needs children.

Of the charity side of the effort, Boylston said: "The monies we raise are for kids to receive therapy not covered by insurance. This therapy can change the trajectory of a child's life."

Donations will be collected at the Arnold Day event but anyone can visit the Arnold Day website on which contributions can be made. 

This year, Arnold Day will be Aug. 1 at Lazy Moon Pizza, 11551 University Blvd., in Orlando.

Come on, Arnold, show up for Ryan, won't you?

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