March 2013 - Page 2 of 4 - On the Go in MCO

Spring Training in the Grapefruit League

Spring training is one of my absolute favorite things about living in Florida. I am fortunate enough to have over half a dozen Major League Baseball teams that have their spring training facilities within about an hour of where I live. For those who aren’t familiar, professional baseball teams are split into two leagues for preseason training: the Cactus League in Arizona and the Grapefruit League here in Florida.

The nearest stadium for me is the Pittsburgh Pirates home at McKechnie Field here in Bradenton, which is less than two miles from my house. This is probably one of the two stadiums where I have attended the most games in the past 15 years living in Florida. The other most visited field for me is Champion Stadium at ESPN Wide World of Sports at Walt Disney World where my favorite team, the Atlanta Braves, have their home field. It is really nice having access to baseball so close to home. I was even able to meet my favorite player Chipper Jones just five minutes from my house during spring training!

Chipper Jones at Spring Training

Chipper Jones and Terry Pendleton signed my ticket

One of the best things about spring training is the accessibility to the players. Often times the stadiums are smaller and more intimate than their regular season counterparts. This provides fans with closer seats to the field usually and more opportunities to meet and get autographs from your favorite players. Spring training is a great chance to travel around the state and experience different stadiums and also to get to see up and coming players before they make it to the big show.

Of the 15 teams that currently train in the Grapefruit League, I’ve been to five of the stadiums for spring training games over the years. Eventually, I would love to travel around to see games in each of the stadiums around the state since all are within a two to three hour drive from my home. This past weekend I was lucky enough to catch the Braves play the Mets at home in Lake Buena Vista, then saw the Nationals host the Astros in Viera. It was a fantastic weekend filled with great baseball and got me even more excited for regular season to start in a few weeks. I owe a big thank you to the Florida’s Space Coast Office of Tourism for hosting us at the Nationals game!

The Braves game was extra special as the weekend’s games were themed after Star Wars! I was so stoked when I first heard this announced and even started planning how I was going to incorporate both the Star Wars and Braves into my attire for the game. It was so cool how they brought in Star Wars characters at the beginning of the game like Chewbacca to cheer on the ceremonial first pitch. Darth Vader decided he needed to have a pep talk with the umps while Stormtroopers guarded the Braves dugout. The Disney characters even got into the spirit with Jedi Mickey, Leia Minnie, Darth Goofy and Stormtrooper Donald all making appearances at the 7th inning stretch to lead the singalong of Take Me Out To The Ball Game while accompanied by the X Wing Fighter Pilot Saxophone Quarter. All in all it was definitely an enhanced experience that I’d love to see Disney Sports continue.

Braves game

Ready to represent Star Wars and the Braves

Jedi Mickey posing with a youth team before the game

Chewbacca cheering on the ceremonial first pitch

Stormtroopers guarding the Braves dugout

Fireworks after Freddie Freeman home run

Jedi Mickey and the gang singing Take Me Out To The Ball Game

Me with Hall of Famer Don Sutton in the background

Kids got to run the bases after the game and high five Jedi Mickey, Leia Minnie, Darth Goofy and Stormtrooper Donald

Nationals game

Couple that threw out the ceremonial first pitch got engaged on the field

Stephen Strasburg's first pitch for the Nationals — Stephen Strasburg’s first pitch for the Nationals

Former Brave Adam LaRoche on deck for the Nationals

Sun starting to set at Space Coast Stadium

If you get an opportunity to head to Florida in the month of March, please come visit one of the great spring training facilities the Grapefruit League has to offer. Tickets are often very affordable, especially in comparison to regular season games. Who knows, if you’re lucky, you may even get to meet and get an autograph from your favorite player just minutes after you see him hit a home run. Have you been to spring training in Florida before? What are some of your favorite things about it?

Wordless Wednesday – Barnabas T. Bullion’s New Digs

Wordless Wednesday – March 20, 2013

Wordless Wednesday Big Thunder Mountain Railroad — This week’s Wordless Wednesday takes a peek at one of my favorite details in Barnabas T. Bullion‘s Big Thunder Mining Company.

LEGOLAND Florida – Summer 2013 Park Expansion

In the 18 months that LEGOLAND has been open in Florida, they have kept busy with numerous additions…

But yesterday LEGOLAND FLORIDA announced a major park expansion that promises to be epic.

We’re talking a whole new natural resource here…CHI! We will be the first to get this new resource straight from The World of Chima!

This expansion will be one of the centerpieces of the new LEGO Chima brand, which already includes a major LEGO product line, a stunningly animated television series to air on Cartoon Network and multiple interactive video games and apps. LEGOLAND Florida is the only place in the world that LEGO fans can go to unleash the power and be fully immersed in The World of Chima, providing an experience like no other.

LEGOLAND Florida’s newest expansion is the first time a theme park has put so much into a brand new product line. While Legends of Chima maybe one of the newest brands of LEGO, it has taken off to a whole new level.

“This is the first time a theme park has invested in a major expansion concurrently with the rollout of a new brand and product line, and it was an easy decision based on how well LEGO Legends of Chima has been received by children and those who are young at heart around the world,” said LEGOLAND Florida General Manager Adrian Jones. “This is also a reflection of the overall success of the park, which has already enabled us to open a new Water Park and build multiple new attractions during the past 18 months.”

Now is the time that I should probably tell you what this “CHI” is, right? (Hang on while I do some research…)

CHI is a water-like substance. All of the animal tribes (lion, eagle, croc, raven & wolf) of Chima can use it when it turns into blue orbs. The tribes need it to power vehicles and machines. Bonus! It can also give them speed, stamina and strength. (Do you get it now? You should ask your child, they can probably explain it better.)

This land, set to open Summer 2013, is focused around a water ride called, The Quest for CHI.

The Quest for CHI will be the centerpiece of the new World of Chima at LEGOLAND Florida and will be an interactive, family-friendly water ride,. Guests will enter The World of Chima through a fantastical stone and moss covered entrance which leads to the Lion Temple at the base of the majestic 45-foot tall floating Mount Cavora. There, guests will explore a diverse landscape setting and join the Lion Tribe in an epic battle to recover the stolen CHI orbs. Guests will board a watercraft which will take them on an interactive experience using water cannons to help their hero, Laval the Lion Prince, defeat Cragger the Crocodile King as he attempts to steal the precious supply of CHI. The journey will take them through the land of Chima where they will meet some of the highly advanced animal tribal habitats, including the Rhino Quarry, Raven’s Roost, Eagle’s Nest, Wolves Encampment, Gorilla Forest and Crocodile Swamp among other imaginative settings.

There will also be a 4D movie that will put you right into The World of Chima.

Also there will be a Speedorz Arena, where guests can build ripcord powered vehicle models out of LEGO bricks and compete against each other.

And the kids will also get the chance to meet their hero Laval the Lion Prince and Cragger the Crocodile King at daily character meet and greet sessions in the World of Chima expansion.

Another cool aspect of this new expansion is the partnership with Cartoon Network and the show that is airing on the station.

“This is a great opportunity to continue the successful relationship that Cartoon Network has had with LEGO Group,” said Cartoon Network Chief Marketing Officer Brenda Piper. “We are always looking to expand the Cartoon Network brand to reach children outside the world of television and what better way to do that than by bringing the Legends of Chima to life at a theme park.”

As the presenting partner, Cartoon Network will have a major presence in the park during the summer months, and beyond. In addition, Cartoon Network will have screens placed around the park that will consist of other content from the network including the hit original series, Adventure Time.

It’s crazy to me that the construction site looks like this now and in just a few short months we’ll all be back to see this awesome new place and get immersed in The World of Chima.

Being the huge LEGO fan that I am, I know that I’m ready for it! I can’t wait to check it out and see all that The World of Chima has to offer!!

Feeding The Animals Of Walkabout Way At Busch Gardens

At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Zoe got to do something she’s wanted to do for ‘her whole entire life’…She got to feed kangaroos in the Walkabout Way area of the park.

Guests ages 5 and older can purchase a cup of food for this experience at a nominal fee, but it is important to note that you can go in without purchasing food for the animals. If you are a Busch Gardens annual pass holder, you will want to make sure that you show your pass for a discount!

In Walkabout Way you will find red and grey kangaroos, Bennett’s wallabies magpie geese, Australian black swans, and other native Australian species. And the best part is that the food that you purchase can be fed to any of the animals in this area!

There are a few things to keep in mind if you want to feed the animals in Walkabout Way.

The first thing to keep in mind is that there are scheduled feeding times, which are posted at the entrance to the area. It is a good idea to visit at the beginning of a scheduled feeding, since the animals can get rather full if it is a busy day of treat giving.
The animals in this area are accustomed to being touched, so there are also tons of hand-washing stations located just outside of the Walkabout Way feeding area for your convenience.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions! There are experts on hand that can answer questions from your little ones, and love to share their passion for taking care of these beautiful animals.
Take tons of pictures! How cool is it to have a picture of you feeding a kangaroo or wallaby? Answer, VERY cool!

I hope that you give feeding the animals of Walkabout Way a chance, and that it is as fun for you and your family as it was for mine!

APC Great American Pie Festival Returns to Celebration

From Career Bakers to Sunday Afternoon Hobbyists, Upper Crust of Nation’s Pie Bakers Are Invited to Showcase Their Best Original Recipes in 19^th Annual APC/Crisco^® National Pie Championships

Pie Events Draw Both Bakers and Tasters: APC/Crisco^® National Pie Championships April 26-28 in Orlando and APC Great American Pie Festival sponsored by Crisco^®
April 27-28 in Celebration, Fla.

Some of them bake pie for a living. Some of them simply live for pie. For 19 years, pie bakers of all skill levels — from the Sunday afternoon family baker to the neighborhood bakery owner, from budding pastry chefs putting a twist on their grandma’s recipes to the nation’s most experienced commercial bakers — have gathered once a year to determine who bakes America’s very best pies. From Friday, April 26 through Sunday, April 28, hundreds of competitors hungry for prizes and bragging rights will gather at the American Pie Council^® (APC) /Crisco^® National Pie Championships held at the Caribe Royale All-Suite Hotel and Convention Center in Orlando. In conjunction with the pie championships, the APC is proud to present its 12th Annual APC Great American Pie Festival sponsored by Crisco^®on Saturday and Sunday, April 27-28, in nearby Celebration, Fla.

The APC — America’s only organization dedicated to preserving America’s love affair with pie— is now accepting entries for the National Pie Championships from amateur, professional and commercial bakers. Amateur bakers may compete in a flavorful new category this year: Comstock Wilderness pie fillings in the baker’s choice of apple, cherry, blueberry, peach or strawberry. New this year is a Bake Learning Center which will offer championship attendees pie baking tips and instruction by leading industry professionals and pastry chefs.

Last year, the prestigious pastry bake-off drew more than 441 commercial, 115 professional, 237 amateur and 8 junior entries for an astounding total of 801 pies in the quest to find America’s top bakers. Commercial winners took home bragging rights and the promise of greater sales, while winners in all other categories received plenty of dough, as is cash and prizes. This year’s competition is expected to be even more heated. Entry forms and pie categories for each division are available on the APC website, www.piecouncil.org. Entry is $15 per pie for amateur APC members, $35/non members and each entrant receives an Emile Henry pie dish; see website for professional and commercial entry costs.APC members receive discounted entry costs; membership information is also available online.

Pie lovers are also invited to apply to be a judge at the prestigious competition. Last year, 195 esteemed pie aficionados from all over the world lent their time and taste buds to nibble on more than 800 pies. No previous judging or baking experience is required; applicants need only explain why they would like to be a judge. Potential pie judges may fill out an entry form online at www.piecouncil.org through March 30, 2013.

Hundreds of volunteers are also needed to make the championships and the APC Great American Pie Festival sponsored by Crisco^® run as easy as, well, pie. Volunteers may indicate the shifts or duties

they prefer to work by filling out an application online at www.piecouncil.org by Tuesday, April 23, 2013.

The Caribe Royale is offering a special rate of $129 per night for those competing in or attending the APC/Crisco^® National Pie Championships or the APC Great American Pie Festival sponsored by

Crisco^®. To receive this special rate, guests must mention the event by name. Reservations may be made by calling 800-823-8300. For more information about the Caribe Royale, visit www.thecaribeorlando.com.

“It’s amazing to think that right now, bakers across the country are baking their hearts out, testing out new recipes and breaking the barriers to create even better tasting, more creative and more tantalizing pies than the year before,” said Linda Hoskins, Executive Director, American Pie Council. “Every year brings new surprises and new recipes from the best bakers in all categories, from our amateurs to our professional and commercial bakers.”

More than 39,000 pie lovers from across the globe are expected to transcend upon Celebration, Fla. on Saturday, April 27 and Sunday, April 28 for the APC Great American Pie Festival sponsored by Crisco^®. The increasingly popular, free admission festival returns to Celebration with all the activities that have made it a family favorite, including the Pie Creation Station, the pie tin art activity for art lovers of all ages, and the Demonstration Stage sponsored by Village Inn and Bakers Square Restaurants, featuring entertainment and baking demonstrations with chefs from across the country. Always a crowd favorite, the kids’ and adults’ pie eating contests return this year, once again sponsored by Private Selection.

The highlight of the festival is the Never Ending Pie Buffet, which last year featured an astounding 90,000 slices of pie as well as ice cream, toppings and beverages from America’s best known commercial bakers. The Never Ending Pie Buffet has grown each year, from 83,000 slices in 2010 and 70,000 in 2009. The buffet and the children’s activities are the only paid events at the festival. All stage entertainment and demonstrations are free. Tickets to the Pie Buffet are $10 for adults and $5 for seniors over 65 and children under 5 to enjoy all they care of eat and drink.

Those interested in keeping up to date on the latest news concerning the pie championships, pie festival or pie news can follow the American Pie Council on Facebook and Pinterest and on Twitter at FYPie.

The festival will be held at Lakeside Park at 631 Sycamore St. in downtown Celebration, Florida 34747. Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, April 27; noon to 5 p.m., Sunday, April 28. Admission to the festival is free.

For more information, visit the Front Porch Celebration Community at www.celebration.fl.us or the American Pie Council^® www.piecouncil.org.

Crisco^® is a registered trademark of The J. M. Smucker Company. For more information, visit www.crisco.com.

The American Pie Council^® is the only organization committed to maintaining America’s pie heritage, passing on the tradition of pie-making and promoting America’s love affair with pie. The APC offers personal, professional and commercial memberships. For more information, please visit www.piecouncil.org.

Viva La Música Heats Up SeaWorld Orlando

Saturdays are hotter than ever at SeaWorld Orlando during Viva la Música, Central Florida’s can’t-miss Latin food and concert festival, April 13 through May 4.

Come celebrate the food, fun, sights and sounds of Latin culture at this annual festival, featuring live concerts by internationally renowned Latin musical artists, all included with park admission.

Enjoy savory Latin cuisine prepared by SeaWorld Orlando’s Executive Chef, Héctor Colón. With more than 20 years experience – and a lifetime enjoying countless Caribbean and Latin dishes – Chef Héctor Colόn has added his touch to the traditional Latin favorites such as arroz con gandules, arroz con pollo, habichuelas rojas y maduros, churrasco, ceviche, alcapurrias and bacalaítos.

As with all SeaWorld special events, performances are included with daily admission, Fun Card or annual pass. Viva la Música festival activities begin at 12 p.m. each Saturday, with concerts starting at 3 p.m. at Bayside Stadium:

Saturday, April 13 – Daddy Yankee (reggaeton)
Saturday, April 20 – Willie Colón (salsa)
Saturday, April 27 – Grupománia (merengue)
Saturday, May 4 – El Gran Combo (salsa)

Concerts are general seating. However, reserved seating for your favorite concerts is available with the Viva la Música VIP Package. Starting at $24, this special package includes a meal (entrée and any one item from a selection of side salads, side dishes or desserts, plus a regular-sized non-alcoholic beverage) at any Viva la Música food sampling area or SeaWorld cafeteria-style restaurant, plus reserved seating — Center Stage! VIP seating can be purchased separately starting at $14. Both packages are available at SeaWorldOrlando.com.

The best way to experience Viva la Música is with a 2013 SeaWorld Fun Card – you can pay for a day and come back all year through Dec. 31, 2013, to enjoy unlimited admission to all SeaWorld Orlando special events. Plus, with a Fun Card, you can experience Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, SeaWorld Orlando’s newest, must-see attraction opening May 24, as many times as you’d like! SeaWorld’s Antarctica will transport families into a rarely seen, icy world. You’ll feel the majestic grandeur of the South Pole and see it through the penguins’ eyes on an exhilarating, first-of-its-kind family ride.

For more information, visit SeaWorldOrlando.com. Viva la Música event dates, times and artists are subject to change.

Wreck-It Ralph Available on Disney Blu-Ray!

Daddy’s Movie Day: Wreck-It Ralph

Finally after many months of anticipation, Disney has finally released their blockbuster animated film Wreck-It Ralph on DVD and Blu –Ray. Ralph and his fellow inhabitants of the arcade come to life to tell the story of the Bad Guy who isn’t a “Bad Guy”…

Ever since I saw Wreck-It Ralph in the theater the first time, I have wanted to see it again. I grew up in the golden age of arcade games, so I saw many familiar faces in Ralph’s world. It was great to see all of the painstaking detail the director and animators took to incorporate all of these classic elements. When we received the DVD, I was excited to be able to watch it over multiple times to see all of the little elements that I missed when I saw it in the theater. As nice as it was, I really didn’t have a choice. The real ruler of the DVD play, and sometimes the house, my daughter Zoe insisted on watching it many times the first day we got it. I didn’t put up much of a fight as I wanted to watch it too, and once again it didn’t disappoint.

Wreck-It Ralph is a wonderful story about a Bad Guy who just wants to be accepted. It is wonderfully written and directed, incorporating comedy, action, drama, and a heartwarming story of friendship and overcoming the odds.

The Blu-Ray is full of great extras that we loved exploring. The favorite in our house was the pause screens 12 different segments showing all of the hidden gems in the background of the movie.

In my opinion, Wreck-It Ralph is the best movie Disney has put out in a number of years, and I highly recommend it to anyone young or old.

httpv://youtu.be/jUZ9I8hXj14

My Perfect Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival Day

This year’s Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival is full of some great new additions, as well as some of my old favorites. I thought I would take you along as I look at what makes a perfect day at the 2013 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival.

httpv://youtu.be/nLssHT6H_fQ

When you walk in the main entrance to Epcot, it’s hard to miss the new Fab 5 Topiary ‘Party with Mickey & Friends’ as they celebrate the 20^th Anniversary of Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival. Also as you walk around Spaceship Earth towards Future World, make sure you check out the Phineas & Ferb Topiary.

I am a big fan of the new ‘Radiator Springs’ interactive play area! Make sure you take a few extra minutes to become a Private Detective with Tow Mater. This area is sure to make the Cars fans in your family happy!

After taking a stroll through Radiator Springs, it’s a great time to head to the Festival Center. Here you can find all of the great Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival merchandise, see a presentation in the HGTV Theater with some of your favorite DIY gurus, take a class, or even ask an expert a question about your garden at home.

Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival — This year’s Festival Pins!

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Another area that I could spend all day in is Tinker Bell’s Butterfly House. This year Tinker Bell and her friends play host to a wonderful world of butterflies, and if you look closely you might even find some of their Fairy Houses! For a special treat, make sure you stop by around 11:00 am to watch the butterflies emerge from their cocoons.

You can visit the Land of Oz in the new children’s play area presented by the new Disney film ‘Oz the Great and Powerful’. In this area you can play midway games for prizes, take a break and play for a bit on unique play structures, and relax under a hot air balloon.

While you’re in this area, a fun activity for the little ones is to decorate a flower pot for their seeds from The Land of Oz at the Water Wise Herbs & Vegetable exhibit.

Luckily the Pineapple Promenade is right next to The Land of Oz Play area, so it was time to grab a Dole Whip (I opted to get one without spiced rum) and a Pineapple Upside Down Cake. What a great treat!

This year there are 12 food booths around the World Showcase Lagoon offering a Taste of Spring. While these booths look similar to those used for the International Food & Wine Festival in the Fall, that is where the similarities end. For the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, each booth features fresh foods prepared in the booth with plantings around each one of ingredients used in the foods. The Cottage in the United Kingdom Pavilion was my favorite, but the candied strawberries of Lotus House are unique and worth a try!

Also, you will definitely want to pick up one of the Disney Gift Cards on a wristlet to make buying items at the booths super easy! It can be loaded with as little as $5, and is accepted as payment for nearly anything! Plus this year, they are themed to the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival! Super Cute! You can get them throughout Epcot at ticket booths, Guest Relations, the Festival Center, and almost anywhere they sell Disney Gift Cards!

And it wouldn’t be Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival without topiaries, and both World Showcase & Future World are full of some great ones! I definitely wouldn’t miss…

The new Disney-Pixar ‘Monsters University’
The Moose in the Victoria Gardens of the Canada Pavilion
Hook, Tic Toc Croc, and Peter Pan in the United Kingdom Pavilion
Beauty and the Beast in the France Pavilion
Woody & Lotso in the American Adventure Pavilion
Buzz in front of Mission Space
The Troll in the Norway Pavilion

The Backyard Play Garden is full of whimsical touches that you can add to your garden at home (with instructions), as well as a really nice play area for the kiddos. This is a great place to take a break since the kids have a place that is covered to play on with restrooms close by.

Two of my perennial favorites are the bonsai on display in the Japan Pavilion and the large terra cotta pots of Italy that are overflowing with beautiful flowers.

Now would be about the time to start queuing up for the Flower Power Concert Series performed at the American Gardens Theater near the American Adventure Pavilion. STOP TO AT LEAST HEAR ONE CONCERT! I know that these are older performers, but once they start going you will be surprised to see how many songs you know. We saw Micky Dolenz, of The Monkees, and he was amazing. I am personally stoked for The Village People to perform later in the festival.

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Make sure you take a moment to take in the Kinsey Collection: Shared Treasures of Bernard & Shirley Kinsey inside of the American Adventure Pavilion. This new exhibit allows you to see authentic documents, books, artifacts, and are art including landscapes and flora in one of the largest collections of African American Art. I had the amazing chance to speak with the Kinseys, and their passion for this collection is breathtaking. We are truly lucky to have such an exhibit visiting Epcot!

After you watch Illuminations, a mandatory watching is included in a perfect day at Epcot, make sure you check out the topiaries as they are illuminated and pixie dust powered at night.

And that would be my perfect day at Epcot’s International Flower and Garden Festival. It’s a great time of year to visit, and I can’t wait to hear what your perfect day at the Festival would be like!

Orlando Receives Four Players On Loan From MLS’ Sporting KC

Orlando Receives Four Players On Loan From MLS’ Sporting KC

Players include 2012 SuperDraft first rounder, two homegrown Kansas City products

ORLANDO, Fla.—Orlando City SC, in cooperation with Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Sporting Kansas City, announced Thursday that four players from Sporting will join the Lions on permanent loan for the 2013 USL PRO season. The players, who will compete for starting roles immediately, include Forward Dom Dwyer, Midfielder Christian Duke, Defender Yann Songo’o and Goalkeeper Joe Kempin. They will be available for play in Orlando’s upcoming collegiate friendlies and the second leg of the I-4 Derby presented by United World Soccer against the NASL’s Tampa Bay Rowdies on March 30.

“We are bringing players in who all want to be on the first team,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We think that they are going to come in and immediately compete. It’s game on for everybody.“

The four Kansas City products will be on loan for the 2013 season, but can be recalled at any time for Sporting KC responsibilities throughout the year. The players coming to Orlando results from a partnership completed in January of 2013, with the Lions becoming the official USL PRO affiliate of Sporting KC for the 2013 and 2014 seasons.

2012 MLS SuperDraft first round selection and Sporting’s No. 16 pick Dom Dwyer enhances the Orlando City frontline for the 2013 season. The striker played in nine Reserve League matches last year, scoring two goals for Kansas City. Dwyer’s first competitive minutes were in the club’s 3-2 win over the Lions in the 2012 version of the U.S. Open Cup. The Chuckfield, England, native spent time collegiately at the University of South Florida (USF), leading the Bulls with 16 goals and two assists in 21 games played.

Sporting KC Academy product and Midfielder Christian Duke adds to the already competitive midfield group that Orlando City currently fields. The Overland Park, KS, native has been a part of the Sporting KC Academy since June of 2007, attending Shawnee Mission South High School at the same time. Duke then attended the University of San Diego Toreros, becoming a consistent starter for the team. As a senior in 2012, the midfielder started all 23 matches for San Diego, earning All-West Coast Conference Second Team honors while leading the team to the quarterfinals of the NCAA Tournament.

Another Kansas City home grown product joins the Lions in 2013, with Goalkeeper Jon Kempin to fill the backup slot to Miguel Gallardo. Kempin was Sporting’s first-ever home grown Player signing back in 2010, making his professional debut the same season as backup to starter Eric Kronberg. Kempin, similar to Dwyer, played in the 3-2 U.S. Open Cup match win over Orlando City last season. The goalkeeper is an active member of the Under-20 and Under-23 National Team pools, being named to the 20-player roster for U20 training camp in Puebla, Mexico in January 2013.

The final addition to the 2013 squad includes Defender Yann Songo’o. Son of Cameroon National Team Goalkeeper Jacques Songo’o and brother to Portland Timbers Midfielder Frank Songo’o, Yann was signed to the Sporting side this past December. Songo’o represented Cameroon at the 2011 African Youth Championship in South Africa, helping his country reach the final and qualify for the 2011 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

Orlando continues preseason play against Florida Gulf Coast this Saturday, March 16, at the Seminole Soccer Complex in Sanford, Fla. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. Admission is free to the complex for the friendly. For more information on everything Orlando City, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.

City Re-Signs League MVP Kevin Molino

City Re-Signs League MVP Kevin Molino

Molino joins squad one month before home opener on April 14 at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl

Orlando, Fla.–Orlando City announced Wednesday the re-signing of 2012 USL PRO MVP Kevin Molino, pending USSF approval. The signing comes just over a month before Orlando’s regular-season home opener on April 14^th against the Rochester Rhinos, solidifying the squad as the Lions continue their 2013 preseason throughout the month of March.

“There’s no place better than home, so to speak,” said Molino. “This is the first place I played outside of Trinidad and I look forward to scoring more goals and hopefully winning MVP honors in 2013.”

Kevin Molino rejoins the Lions after an outstanding season on the field for Orlando. The Trinidad and Tobago international star claimed the 2012 USL PRO MVP honors after completing a year that saw Molino lead Orlando to a 50-goal season, an average of more than two per game. He finished the season with seven assists and three goals, but more importantly stretched opponent’s defenses to create more opportunities for the Lions frontline.

The midfielder began his career in Trinidad and Tobago, with the 22 year old representing his national team a total of 13 times in his young career. A key figure for Orlando since the team’s beginning in 2011, Molino has totaled more than 2,000 minutes in 44 games played for City over the span of two regular seasons. Molino tested the free agency waters over the 2013 preseason, spending time in Europe with PSV Eindhoven of the Netherlands and Zulte Waregem of Belgium along with scoring a goal for Trinidad and Tobago in the Caribbean Cup against the Dominican Republic on December 11.

The winger will immediately add to the already strong 2013 Orlando City side that Heath has called “his best team yet” in Orlando. On top of the Molino signing, the Lions have added Jean Alexandre, Bryan Burke, Freddie Braun, Brian Fekete and Jonathan Mendoza all within the last month, bringing the roster to a total of 18. Orlando is also expecting to bring on four Sporting Kansas City (MLS) players before the 2013 season start as per an agreement between the two clubs reached earlier in the year.

Acquisition: Orlando City (USLPRO) signs Kevin Molino

DRIP offers special MegaCon events March 13-16

DRIP offers special MegaCon events March 13-16

COSTUMES! CAPES! LOTS of SPLAT! and POW!

ORLANDO, Fla. – What’s cooler than an original copy of Action Comics No. 1?

How about special comic and sci-fi themed events at DRIP? It’s happening Wednesday, March 13 – Saturday, March 16 to coincide with MegaCon.

This will be a fanboys dream, complete with:

Performers in special comic-inspired costumes
Comic and sci-fi inspired artwork
Interactive video game station
Comic & sci-fi balloon artist Bruce Carr
Body painting
Giveaways and surprises!

As with all DRIP events, people are strongly urged to dress down (jeans, t-shirts, sneakers) as colored sand, paint and other media fly with abandon. Guests are welcome to wear costumes and for those who do, ponchos will be available.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

Wednesday, March 13: Comic & Sci-fi inspired art show from 8 pm – midnight. Comic exchange at 11 pm. $5 cover for people who bring a wrapped comic; $10 for all others. Ages 18+.

Thursday, March 14: DRIP shows at 8 pm and 11 pm; ages 18+.

Friday, March 15: DRIP shows at 8 pm and 11 pm; ages 21+.

Saturday, March 16: DRIP shows at 8 pm and 11 pm; ages 21+.

Each night will feature an after-party from midnight to 2 am with NO COVER. The first 20 people at each event will receive a limited edition DRIP trading card.

DRIP tickets cost $35 and are available at www.ILoveDRIP.com.

DRIP is located at 8747 International Drive, behind Denny’s and Señor Frogs.

Map and directions

About DRIP

DRIP is an arts entertainment company that combines performing and visual arts to create full sensory environments that excite and move audiences. Riff LLC is the parent company of DRIP, and Jessica Mariko serves as CEO of Riff and CEO and Creative Director of DRIP. Since its inception in 2006, DRIP has performed at the Orlando International Fringe Festival, Orlando’s Red Chair Affair, ArtsFest, WrestleMania XXIV, Create Chaos Convention, Blank Space Art Lounge, the Tavistock Cup and several corporate events. In 2011, Riff LLC signed a lease for its first permanent venue on Orlando’s International Drive. For more information, please visit www.ILoveDRIP.com.

Central Florida Home & Garden Show Giveaway

Central Florida Home & Garden Show Springs Into Action March 22-24

Featuring Jason Cameron, DIY Experts, Top Local Chefs and Home and Garden Solutions

One of the region’s most anticipated spring events will be here in no time: the 2013 Central Florida Home & Garden Show, returning March 22-24 to the Orange County Convention Center in Hall South B in the Center’s South Concourse facing International Drive. The home improvement extravaganza is the premier place to find innovative products, new ideas, practical advice and great deals in remodeling, home improvement and gardening with hundreds of experts all under one roof. From windows and flooring to cabinets and landscaping, consumers can shop, compare and save on a wide variety of products and services to renew, refresh and restore their homes.

Show highlights include appearances by Jason Cameron of DIY Network’s Man Caves and Desperate Landscapes; tips and advice from local and national home improvement experts appearing on the IKEA Home Stage throughout the weekend; demonstrations by some of the area’s favorite chefs on the Edible Orlando Cooking Stage; Hero Day on Friday only, offering free admission to retired or current members of the military and first responders; designer rooms with instant ideas to refresh and restyle; and a “fun-raiser” for Children’s Home Society of Florida; and more than 250 DIY, landscaping and home improvement experts offering a range of new products and services, including more than 100 exhibitors new to the market or making their Central Florida Home & Garden Show debut.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eoxpfNLfVfM&feature=share&list=UUXVc9UOnBIQpe-WLbNWHUzQ

Marketplace Events, North America’s largest producer of home shows, including the Central Florida Home & Garden Show and fall Orlando Home Show, announced earlier this year that attendance at the first four home shows in the company’s annual portfolio realized an average attendance increase of 17 percent over the prior year, and that exhibit space and online advance ticket sales were also trending upward. “Our results so far this year, coupled with low interest rates and improving home sales, lead us to believe that more and more people are taking on home improvement projects that they have previously postponed,” said Tom Baugh, CEO of Marketplace Events. “Now more than ever, home shows are relevant to bring people with projects together with local businesses offering competitive pricing and promotions that even savvy shoppers might not find elsewhere.”

“Our shows offer something for everyone,” added Cristian Moore, show manager for Marketplace Events. “Whether they have a specific project in mind or simply want to enjoy a fun day out, local residents and visitors can refresh their space, reinvent their décor and restyle their lives at our show.”

Jason Cameron of DIY Network’s Man Caves and Desperate Landscapes shares his passion for architecture and the wood shop, along with tips, advice and behind-the-scenes stories during his appearances on the IKEA Home Stage on Friday at 6 p.m., Saturday at 12 noon and 5 p.m., and Sunday at 4 p.m. (subject to change without notice).

Guests can enjoy mouth-watering demonstrations and tasty samples prepared by some of the area’s favorite chefs and culinary pros on the Edible Orlando Cooking Stage. Scheduled to demonstrate their signature recipes and dispense advice throughout the weekend are James and Julie Petrakis of the The Ravenous Pig; Kevin Spencer of Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops at Hilton Orlando; Greg Picard, executive chef for Orlando World Center Marriott; Dun Chau of Sushi House Orlando; Danny Otera of Teak Neighborhood Grill, and chefs and experts from Whole Foods Market, New York Dinger and World of Beer. Gloria B, the bi-lingual host of KQ103 FM’s afternoon drive show, spices up the stage on Saturday at 3:30 p.m., Latino style!

Get answers to important DIY and home improvement, landscaping and home décor questions from more than 250 experts around the show floor and on the main stage throughout the weekend. Local favorites Harry P. Leu Gardens Director Robert Bowden and popular green thumb and Orlando Sentinel columnist Tom MacCubbin are among the presenters (visit www.CentralFloridaHomeAndGardenShow.com for a complete listing of presentations and times).

Other experts can help show-goers make their gardens a beautiful retreat. Belgard Hardscapes, Hoffner Landscape, Jan Clay Flowers, Lanai Hardscape Company, Pebble Junction, Pondtastic Water Gardens and Smithwell will be on site with ideas, tips and cash-and-carry items.

Speaking of items for cash-and-carry, guests can “raise the woof!” and show their furry housemates some love at the Pet Pavilion sponsored by Urban Pet Magazine and Stanley Steemer. Exhibitors range from emergency vet, boarding, training and pet rescue services to purveyors of fashion, treats and grooming for cats, dogs and other critters.

Other not-to-be-missed features and opportunities at the show include Hero Day on Friday only, offering free admission to retired or current members of the military and first responders with proper ID or in uniform; Friday Family Day, offering free admission to children ages 12 and under and family-fun activities on the show floor; Children’s Home Society of Florida’s Champions for Children™ Corner, where guests can spin the prize wheel, putt for prizes and bid on celebrity painted bird houses to support Florida’s most vulnerable kids; fantastic ice and fruit carving displays throughout the weekend by Laz of Wizard Connection; and designer rooms with instant ideas to refresh and restyle. Plus enter-to-win contests, prize drawings, and much more!

Show hours are Friday and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m, and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Tickets are available at the door, and are $10 for adults 13+, $5 for seniors (60+, at the box office only), $5 for children ages 6-12, and free for children ages five and under. Advance tickets can be purchased online for a $3 discount off full-price $10 admission at www.CentralFloridaHomeAndGardenShow.com, courtesy of TD Bank.

For more information, visit www.CentralFloridaHomeAndGardenShow.com , or call 877-871-SHOW (7469). Connect on Facebook, Twitter (@FloridaHomeShow), Pinterest (pinterest.com/homeshows/) for up-to-the-minute show details, discounts and fabulous home improvement tips. Visit the show’s blog at www.HomeAndGardenBlog.com.

We are also offering you the chance to win 4 tickets to the Central Florida Home & Garden Show!

But wait, there’s more! Your winner (and you) will be entered into a random drawing for a chance to win a meet and greet with our special celebrity guest, Jason Cameron of DIY Network’s Man Caves and Desperate Landscapes and VIP front row seats to his Saturday stage appearance.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Opening Day of the Central Florida Home & Garden Show Friday, March 22 is FAMILY DAY, a celebration of all things home and family. In the midst of spring and Spring Break, now’s the time to bring the kid out in all of us. Join in special activities and gather tips for a family-friendly home. Kids ages and 12 and under are FREE on Friday!

The Central Florida Home & Garden Show and its fall sister show, the Orlando Home Show (October 4-6, 2013) are both produced by Marketplace Events.

Disney’s Vero Beach Resort – A Breath of Fresh Air

The second day of my trip to Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, I got up and was excited to be heading back to Shutters for the character breakfast with Goofy and Donald. This breakfast is one of the best character meal values I’ve ever seen at under $18 for adults. It is family style usually, but since I wasn’t eating meat, I was permitted to order off the menu and got the pina colada pancakes with pineapple and rum sauce. Incredible!!!

Goofy's Beachfront Breakfast at Disney's Vero Beach Resort — Goofy’s Beachfront Breakfast

Shortly after breakfast, I heard from Shalon, who had asked if she could come visit for lunch since she had not been to Disney’s Vero Beach Resort before either. I told her no problem. We met up, and I showed her around before we had lunch at the Green Cabin Room, another casual restaurant and bar at the resort that is open for lunch and dinner. In the evening they also sometimes offer live entertainment in the form of musicians. We had a nice lunch, with me ordering a roma tomato, basil, roasted garlic and buffalo mozzarella flatbread, and Shalon got the oak-grilled breast of chicken on crispy pretzel. We were both very happy with our selections. After lunch we decided to try out the miniature golf course since it looked like fun (and it was, until that six on the last hole) and it was such a great value. Shalon headed back home after a quick stop in the gift shop where we found out one of the CMs I had spoken to the evening before for almost an hour about the turtles, turned out to be our friend Matt’s mom. It is indeed a small world after all.

Playing hostess, even for just a few hours, can really take it out of a girl. Bed called, but not before I called down to the spa to see if there was a pedicure appointment available. Luckily, there was for late afternoon, which would still allow me some more reading time before my dinner reservation at Sonya’s, the more upscale restaurant at Vero Beach. This trip really was shaping up to be the ultimate in R&R. If only I had been able to splurge even more on the massage, but there’s always next time. The pedicure was great and again, with an ocean view from the spa, and phenomenal service.

There's even an ocean view from the Spa — There’s even an ocean view from the Spa

Sonya’s vegetarian trio, along with the spectacular service and the triple chocolate dessert made the evening even more magical. I finished earlier than I expected, so I again was able to go back to my room to read for an hour or so before the campfire. Although very different, I would say both nights’ singalongs were equally enjoyable. I even saw the couple from New Jersey from the night before, as well as some other guests from Orlando that I enjoyed speaking to earlier in the trip. Disney’s Vero Beach Resort very much has the feel of a family resort that guests return to year after year and the CMs get to see the families grow up over time. I loved this feeling of kinship and recognition. Even though I was only at the resort for a couple of days, I was remembered and called by name from the restaurant staff at Shutters to the recreation cast. It was really a nice feeling that I don’t typically experience at most WDW resorts just due to the sheer size and turnover of the resorts.

Entrance to Sonya's — Entrance to Sonya’s

Dinner table at Sonya's — Dinner table at Sonya’s

On my last evening at Vero Beach, upon returning to my room, I found my favorite movie of all time, Casablanca, on Turner Classic Movies and felt compelled to watch the rest of the film as a great ending to the night. I read for a bit longer to finish my book after the movie ended, and set my alarm so I would have enough time to grab a bite to eat before checking out at 11 before heading to work. I slept so well, hearing the waves crashing on the shore just outside my window. It is one of the most peaceful sounds, yet backed by so much power. It was entrancing! I missed it from my youth and miss it now.

There is a Sunday brunch offered at Shutter’s, with additional seating in Sonya’s, but seeing as I couldn’t eat the majority of the items on the buffet, I chose to order a la carte and got the heavenly orange oatmeal french toast. Even the chefs in the restaurant remembered me from day to day due to me having food allergies and needing to consult them before ordering. Also, the table service restaurants at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort even take Tables In Wonderland, excluding the Sunday brunch. This was meal a great way to end my trip.

Disney’s Vero Beach Resort was most definitely the breath of fresh air that I needed to recharge and renew myself. It was absolutely one of the best weekend vacations I’ve ever taken. I cannot wait to go back and experience some of the amazing culinary options I wasn’t able to try this trip. I relished the fact that I could unplug (literally and figuratively) and get the rest and relaxation I was so wanting and needing. This trip and resort completely exceeded any and all expectations I had. I think this is due so much in part, possibly in whole, to the incredible Cast Members. I even took the time before leaving to get the manager of the resort to personally compliment him on the exemplary service everyone provided. I do not think there was a single thing I would have changed about this visit, other than to maybe extend it by a week or two.

I hope that everyone will take the opportunity to visit this magnificent resort at some point. Have you ever been to Disney’s Vero Beach Resort? What did you enjoy most? Did you take it easy like I did, or did you take advantage of the tons of activities at the resort and in the area?

Kid's water pay area — Kid’s water pay area

Mini golf course continuing Peter Pan theme

Beth’s Aerial Adventure!

I recently had the opportunity to attend an Aerial silk dance class at Northwest Dance Studio in Orlando. The moment I heard about the class, I said sign me up because when will I ever get the opportunity to do this again.

First a little background on the studio. The studio, directed by Sarah Swindell, opened in 2005 and strives to provide not only dance training but also instill self esteem and confidence in its students. It is focused on reaching out to students in the nearby community and offers them opportunities they otherwise would not be exposed to due to financial or other similar hindrances. Classes offered include ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, aerial silks and more and are open to all ages and abilities. The studio is also home to the Northwest Dance Company which offers the serious student performance opportunities throughout the year. Students learn not only dance and performance technique, but also learn about lighting, music, and stage production.

As I said earlier, as soon as I heard about the aerial silks class, I couldn’t wait to try it. After some stretching and Pilates, our instructor, Sarah, demonstrated the first skill we would learn. She showed us a single leg wrap and how you use it to climb the silk. Of course she made it look extremely easy as she climbed the silk to the top, extended her legs, and then descended quickly and smoothly. The other ladies and I couldn’t wait to try. But oh were we in for a surprise! It’s hard! I quickly discovered that aerial silk dance uses nearly every muscle, even ones you won’t be aware of until the following morning. It requires leg strength, upper body strength, core strength, and even uses the tiny muscles in the fingers and toes. I attempted a back walk over with the silk but need more practice to master that one. The last skill I learned involved tying a knot in the silk that supports the low back. I lay back on the knot and then flipped my hips in a straddle position over my head so that I was upside down. It was very fun and actually stretched out my back muscles. When executed properly, aerial silk dancing is very graceful and elegant. Not sure I’ll ever be ready for Cirque du Soleil but I had a great time trying out something new and I definitely have a new appreciation for how hard these dancers work yet look effortless doing it.

Be sure to check out the Northwest Dance Company’s latest production Maggie, based loosely on the ancient story of Mary Magdalene, featuring aerial skills, contemporary and ballet choreographed to the sounds of an all-original soundtrack. Performances will be held in the Northwest Church Auditorium, 5495 Clarcona-Ocoee Road in Orlando, on Friday March 29, 2013 at 7 P.M. and Sunday March 31 at 9 and 10:30 A.M. and 12 noon. Admission is free and seating is first come, first served. Call the studio for more information regarding this performance and classes for children and adults at 407-490-3345 and visit them at Facebook.com/NorthwestDanceStudio or their website at www.NWDanceOrlando.com.