October 2014 - Page 2 of 4 - On the Go in MCO

Walt Disney Animation Studios Releases Moana Details

Walt Disney Animation Studios sets sail with Moana

Ron Clements and John Musker (“Aladdin,” “The Princess and the Frog”) Helm the Epic Comedy-Adventure

On the heels of all the Big Hero 6 buzz, Walt Disney Animation Studios has revealed plans today for their next film “Moana”.

“Moana” is a sweeping, CG-animated comedy-adventure about a spirited teenager on an impossible mission to fulfill her ancestors’ quest. In theaters in late 2016, the film is directed by the renowned filmmaking team of Ron Clements and John Musker (“The Little Mermaid,” “The Princess and the Frog,” “Aladdin”).

“John and I have partnered on so many films—from ‘The Little Mermaid’ to ‘Aladdin’ to ‘The Princess and the Frog,’” said Clements. “Creating ‘Moana’ is one of the great thrills of our career. It’s a big adventure set in this beautiful world of Oceania.”

In the ancient South Pacific world of Oceania, Moana, a born navigator, sets sail in search of a fabled island. During her incredible journey, she teams up with her hero, the legendary demi-god Maui, to traverse the open ocean on an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous sea creatures, breathtaking underworlds and ancient folklore.

“Moana is indomitable, passionate and a dreamer with a unique connection to the ocean itself,” Musker said. “She’s the kind of character we all root for, and we can’t wait to introduce her to audiences.”

I can’t wait to find out more about “Moana”, and I am really excited to add this to the list of pictures I am excited about seeing!

ABOUT WALT DISNEY ANIMATION STUDIOS

Combining masterful artistry and storytelling with groundbreaking technology, Walt Disney Animation Studios is a filmmaker-driven animation studio responsible for creating some of the most beloved films ever made. Located in Burbank, WDAS continues to build on its rich legacy of innovation and creativity, stretching from the first fully-animated feature film, 1937’s “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” to 2013’s Academy Award®-winning “Frozen,” the biggest animated film of all time. Among the studio’s timeless creations are “Cinderella,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “The Jungle Book,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “The Lion King,” “Tangled” and “Wreck-It Ralph.”

Colossal Curl Coming To Adventure Island

Colossal Curl makes a splash at Adventure Island in 2015

Adventure Island® guests are in for an epic journey on the park’s newest thrill ride Colossal Curl, set to debut at Tampa Bay’s premier waterpark in 2015.

True to its name and holding up to four passengers, this mega slide delivers a high-adrenaline, action-packed adventure, making it the ultimate family thrill slide and adding to the waterpark’s unrivaled combination of corkscrews, waterfalls, high-speed thrills and tropical, tranquil surroundings for guests of all ages.

“We’re excited to continue in our tradition of offering thrilling rides, and slides, at Adventure Island and Busch Gardens® Tampa,” said Park President Jim Dean.

Colossal Curl will be located in the center of the park, next to Mango Joe’s Café®, and will take the place of Gulf Scream. The slide will be the tallest ride atAdventure Island at nearly 70 feet high and 560 feet in length. Construction on Colossal Curl™ will begin in the coming weeks and by early 2015 many of the ride’s features will be visible to guests.

Riders will hurtle high above Adventure Island’s 30 acres of water-drenched fun in the sun and experience a feeling of weightlessness aboard Colossal Curl™. This colorful slide combines funnel and wave elements for an exciting ride that’s sure to get hearts racing.

This is the first new attraction at the waterpark since 2006, and the ride is expected to open during the 2015 Adventure Island season, which begins March 2015. Visit ColossalCurl.com for more information.

Circus Xtreme: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus Returning To Orlando

Bring the Kids, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey

is Bringing Circus XTREME to Orlando

Tickets On Sale Now for The Greatest Show On Earth^® Featuring Contemporary Acts Fused with Iconic Circus Traditions and Extreme Family Fun

Prepare to be astonished and amazed by some of the coolest acts that can only be seen at The Greatest Show On Earth.Children Of All Ages can let their imagination go wild in an exhilarating adventure with extraordinary circus artists and exotic animals. From the highest mountains to the deepest seas, join us at Amway Center in Orlando January 8-11, 2015 as we explore a world of extreme beauty, flexibility, strength and dexterity in ways you’ve never seen before. Purchase tickets for your family to Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey^® Presents Circus Xtreme today.

Circus Xtreme Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey

In Ringling Bros.^® Presents Circus Xtreme, Ringmaster Andre McClain guides audiences on a quest around the world with the help of hilarious adventure seekers, Alex and Irina Emelin. The show will thrill you as the Mongolian riders send arrows flying across the arena sky. This all-female troupe displays their skills in one of the most unique acts this year, performing a series of tricks and maneuvers atop elegant two-hump camels. Jaw-dropping freestyle BMX riders and free running tumblers fill the arena floor performing crazy-stunts mixed with acrobats leaping through a 15-foot transparent tower – and this is just one act! During this energetic show, personal introductions to our performing pachyderms will allow audiences to be on a first name basis with our magnificent animals. All this and more happens during the most unexpected circus experience at Ringling Bros. Presents Circus Xtreme.

The party starts an hour before the show at the All Access Pre-show, which is free with your ticket purchase. You and your family can meet our international cast of performers and get up close to our menagerie of animals. Try on custom costumes, learn circus skills – like juggling – from the famous Ringling Bros.^® Clown Alley and even have the opportunity to win a one of a kind masterpiece created by one of our very own Ringling Bros. painting pachyderms! Together with the show, your family receives over three hours of extreme family fun not to be missed.

Prepare to be amazed by the unexpected. Do something extreme today and get your tickets for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey^®Presents Circus Xtreme.

Tickets for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents Circus Xtreme start at $16. All seats are reserved and tickets go on saleOctober 21 at 10 a.m. Purchase tickets and view show times at www.ringling.com or www.ticketmaster.com, at any Ticketmaster outlet, by calling 800-745-3000, or at the Amway Center box office (phone: 407-440-7900). For group ticket sales and information, call 866-248-8740. Amway Center is located at 400 West Church Street, Orlando, Florida 32801. Ticketmaster service charges and facility fees not included.

For more information, visit www.Ringling.com or visit us on Facebook.

Power Rangers Super Megaforce Weekends

Power Rangers Super Megaforce Weekends at the Nick Hotel

Nickelodeon Suites Resort, the only Nick-themed resort of its kind in the world, will host two exciting Power Rangers Super Megaforce weekends this October.

httpv://youtu.be/DzWZtwUDFBA

The themed weekend, which will take place on October 24-26, will be jam-packed with Power Rangers Super Megaforce fun with all six Rangers costumed characters, including the brand new Silver Ranger.

These Super Megaforce weekends of adventure and excitement will feature a variety of activities for guests including:

Autograph and photo opportunities with the live-action cast of the television series. (October 17-19 only)
Photo opportunities with the Power Rangers costumed characters. (October 24-26)
A super-charged Power Rangers lunch, featuring “Train Like a Ranger” sessions with all six Power Rangers Super Megaforce characters on October 25 (12:30 pm and 2:30 pm) and October 26 (12:30 pm and 2:30 pm) for $17 for ages 4-12 and $33 ages 13 and up.
Power Rangers-themed activities and crafts.
A sneak peek screening of an episode of Power Rangers Super Megaforce.

Power Rangers Super Megaforce Weekends are a really great chance to learn more about the show and the really talented actors that are part of it! If you are a fan, you definitely won’t want to miss the chance to be a part of a great experience at the Nick Hotel!

In addition to the Power Rangers weekends, the hotel’s annual Halloween “spooktacular”, Nick-Or-Treat, will occur each weekend in October. Guests can trick-or-treat across the property with some of their favorite Nickelodeon friends, including SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer. They are also encouraged to bring their own costume.

“So far, 2014 has been filled with incredible experiences for our guests. Hosting the Power Rangers Super Megaforce live-action cast and two Power Rangers weekends in October is one more way we are bringing one-of-kind experiences to the hotel,” said Tony Aslanian, director of sales and marketing for Nickelodeon Suites Resort. “We have several great stay packages to compliment these special event weekends that kids and families are sure to enjoy.”

Guests can book their Power Rangers Super Megaforce weekend stay by visiting NickHotel.com/Power-Rangers.

Join the Nick Hotel Club.
Follow us on Twitter @nickhotel.
Join our Nick Hotel Facebook Fan page.

Festival of Trees Tickets On Sale Now

Festival of Trees: “Tis the Season” Opens

November 15 at the Orlando Museum of Art

Tickets now on sale for Central Florida’s favorite Holiday Tradition!

Elaborately decorated and themed trees will showcase timeless holiday traditions.

Orlando, Fla. (October 2, 2014) – ‘Tis The Season to get your tickets for Central Florida’s favorite holiday event – the 28th Annual Festival of Trees, benefiting the Orlando Museum of Art.

This year the Orlando Museum of Art’s Council of 101 presents the most elegant tradition of the holidays with the Festival of Trees ‘Tis The Season November 15 – 23rd, 2014.

Tickets are now available for purchase by calling 407-896-4231, Ext. 254, visiting www.omart.org/programs/festival-trees or at the Orlando Museum of Art.

Everything at the Festival of Trees will inspire guests and can be purchased to brighten your home or business this season. This beloved holiday event will feature exquisite designer decorated trees of all sizes, wreaths, holiday vignettes and gingerbread houses created by local designers, pastry chefs and businesses.

Along with the exciting collection of holiday displays, gifts and so much more, guests are invited to attend these special events throughout the Festival:

Friday, November 14 7-11pm A TARTAN AFFAIRE

$125/Person – Opening Night Festival Gala

Tuesday, November 18 10am – 5pm FESTIVAL SALUTES SENIORS

$9 Senior Admission/$10 General Admission – Celebrating Seniors

Wednesday, November 19 6:30 – 8:30pm REINDEER ROMP CHILDREN’S PARTY

$12 All Ages – Family Fun, Santa, Children’s Entertainment

NEW THIS YEAR! RUDOLPH’S VIP PASS*

$25 All Ages 5:30pm PRIORITY ENTRY

VIP Pass will allow for a full hour of enjoying Reindeer Romp privately before the doors open at 6:30pm for Reindeer Romp General Admission

Local artist-designed trees, professionally created gingerbread houses, and many other one-of-a-kind items and furnishings will be showcased throughout the museum and will also be available for purchase.

The Orlando Museum of Art will come alive with the sights sounds smells and decorations of the holiday. The Festival of Trees will showcase awe-inspiring fully decorated designer trees, ranging from tabletop displays to 9 feet tall, wreaths, gingerbread creations, all available for purchase along with stunning holiday vignettes. Visitors will enjoy visiting the Holiday Boutique, Festival Café, Toyland Town activity area and Children’s Shop, Deck the Halls, Gingerbread Village and Entertaining by Design in anticipation of being a lucky drawing winner at the Festival Finale and the along with enjoying daily entertainment.

General Admission

November 15-23, 2014

10am – 5pm Daily/$10 Adult $6 Child (ages 3-11)

Includes admission to current Orlando Museum of Art exhibitions including Lamar Peterson: Suburbia Sublime and David Rathman: Stand By Your Accidents.

The Festival of Trees is a major fundraiser for the Orlando Museum of Art and supports its mission to advance the positive impact of art and culture in the state of Florida in the region by providing excellence in visual arts. The Museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving and interpreting notable works of art and to developing and presenting first-rate educational programs. Since its founding, the volunteer Council of 101 has raised more than $6 million to support Museum efforts.

About the Council of 101
The Council of 101 was founded in 1965 to further the cultural development and appreciation of the visual arts in Central Florida. Today, this outstanding group of volunteers consists of Active, Associate, Honorary, Provisional and Sustaining members who comprise an organization of nearly 300 women. These dedicated members devote countless volunteer hours, boundless energy and strong personal skills to annual fund-raising projects that provide significant financial support to the Orlando Museum of Art.

In addition to cash donations, the Council of 101 purchases, through the Corporate Lease Program, Museum-quality prints created by contemporary American artists and gifts them to the Orlando Museum of Art. Prints from this collection may be leased by local businesses through the program administered by the Council of 101. The Council of 101, since its inception, has contributed in excess of $6 million towards art, exhibits, facility renovation and Museum expansion programs. For more information about the Council of 101, please call 407-896-4231 x254.

The Orlando Museum of Art
The Orlando Museum of Art is located in Orlando’s Historic Loch Haven Park at 2416 North Mills Ave., Orlando, Fla. From I-4 take the Princeton Street exit 85. Drive east on Princeton Street, and at the corner of Princeton and Mills (US Highway 17 / 92), turn left. Go one block to east Rollins Street and turn left. The entrance is the first driveway on the left. For further information please call 407-896-4231, Ext. 254 or visitwww.omart.org/programs/festival-trees. On-site parking during the Festival of Trees $5, Off-site parking visit the website.

Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the Orlando Museum of Art is a Blue Star Museum supported by the Museum’s Board of Trustees, the Ambassadors, Council of 101, Friends of American Art, Acquisition Trust, earned income, contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is sponsored in part by Orange County Government through the Arts & Cultural Affairs Program, the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on the Arts and Culture. The National Endowment provides additional support for the Arts, which believes that a great nation deserves great art.

*VIP Passes must be pre-purchased/Limited to 100 Guests. Rudolph’s VIP Pass will allow for a full hour of enjoying Reindeer Romp privately. Guests will have the opportunity to visit with Santa and enjoy the evening’s festivities before the doors open at 6:30pm for Reindeer Romp general admission.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Trip and Meteorite Giveaway

Astronomy Magazine and Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Present Great Balls of Fire Trip and Meteorite Giveaway

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and Astronomy Magazine are partnering to host the Great Balls of Fire Contest, giving away a 9.6-pound authentic meteorite collectable and a space adventure trip for four to the Visitor Complex.

The Great Balls of Fire Contest celebrates the new Great Balls of Fire interactive exhibit at the Visitor Complex, which allows guests to discover the risks that asteroids, comets and meteorites present planet Earth.

The space adventure trip includes round-trip airfare to Florida, provided by Astronomy Magazine, a three-day/two-night stay at the Courtyard by Marriott in Cocoa Beach, provided by Marriott, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex admission tickets, Lunch With An Astronaut tickets, and a Kennedy Space Center Up-Close Tour.

The meteorite, from the prehistoric fall in 1576 at Gran Chaco Gualambra, Argentina, will be displayed at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex through the end of the contest on Nov. 30.

Guests can enter the contest at www.Astronomy.com/KennedySweeps until midnight on Nov. 30. The Great Balls of Fire Contest is open to residents of the United States and Canada (except Quebec) only.

The Great Balls of Fire exhibit at the Visitor Complex explores how we keep track of near-Earth objects while examining the effects of possible impacts. Within the Great Balls of Fire exhibit is Asteroid Encounter, where guests can climb aboard a “spaceship” and blast off to the asteroid belt and Jupiter while compiling data about asteroids and comets. Guests also can explore what would happen if one of these celestial bodies were to hit their hometown, determine Science Fact or Science Fiction of Hollywood movie clips and much more.

About Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex brings to life the epic story of the U.S. space program, offering a full day or more of fun and educational activities, including the Kennedy Space Center Tour featuring the Apollo/Saturn V Center with an actual Saturn V moon rocket, Shuttle Launch Experience^®, 3D IMAX^® space films, Astronaut Encounter, Exploration Space: Explorers Wanted and many other interactive exhibits. The new $100 million home for Space Shuttle Atlantis^SM opened June 29, 2013. Admission also includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame^®, featuring historic spacecraft and the world’s largest collection of personal astronaut memorabilia, which opens daily at noon and closing times vary by season. Only 45 minutes from Orlando, Fla., Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opens daily at 9 a.m. with closing times varying by season. Admission is $50 + tax for adults and $40 + tax for children ages 3-11. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers annual passes starting at $75 + tax for adults and $60 + tax for children ages 3-11. For more information, call 877-313-2610 or visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.

About Astronomy Magazine

Astronomy, the world’s best-selling astronomy magazine, offers the most visually stunning, thorough, and timely coverage of the cosmos. Each monthly issue includes expert science reporting, vivid photography, complete sky-event coverage, easy-to-follow observing tips, informative equipment reviews, and more. All of this comes in a user-friendly style that’s perfect for astronomy enthusiasts at any level. For more information visit www.Astronomy.com.

About Courtyard by Marriott in Cocoa Beach

It’s a New Stay! Our state-of-the-art lobby at Courtyard Cocoa Beach-Cape Canaveral provides great flexibility and choices for guests. Featuring inviting spaces to work, play or relax in, free Wi-Fi throughout with easy access to the latest news, weather and airport conditions via our GoBoard™. Experience The Bistro – Eat. Drink. Connect.™, which provides guests with healthy food and beverage offerings in the morning, evening dinner service with cocktails, and Starbuck coffee all day. The hotel offers a 24 hour fitness center, all season mineral pool and whirlpool and 24-hour business center.

First Time Disney Cruise Planning

Photo Oct 15, 6 21 01 PM As some of you may know, I am planning my first Disney Cruise coming up in a couple weeks. This was a very last minute trip, but I had kind of set aside the time off from the beginning of the year in hopes I’d be able to snag a cruise deal. I have literally dozens of friends and family members who have been on Disney and other cruises, but my mom and I have never been. The internet and friends have been a great source of knowledge, but I still feel like a fish out of water.

For someone who considers themself somewhat of a Walt Disney World expert, it is more than a little humbling realizing how different cruising is and how much I don’t know. What kind of cruise should I book? What stateroom type should I reserve? Should I start out with a shorter cruise since I’ve not been before? What is rotational dining? How much should I expect to spend above and beyond the cost of the cruise, taxes, tips, etc.? What are the absolute must dos on a Disney Cruise (where is Stacey when I need her)? These are just a fraction of the questions that are flying through my mind with under two weeks left to go before my cruise.

We decided on a four night Bahamian cruise on the Disney Dream that leaves on 10/27. I am so stoked to be going over the Halloween on the High Seas celebration to see what kind of fun extras are going to be added to the ship. I think the one tip that has been more prevalent than any other is to not miss out on brunch at Palo on my sea day. It isn’t available to book online since we booked so last minute, but we are hoping to get the chance to book it as soon as we board the Dream. I’ve found the FAQs on the Disney Cruise website to be helpful in answering a lot of my questions, but I’m still undecided on some things like whether to drive and park nearby or to have a friend drop us off and pick us up at the Port. I have been told not to bother getting off the ship in the Bahamas, but I’ve never been out of the country, so I want to go and explore at least for a few hours before heading back to the almost empty ship to explore.

I’ve looked at sample Personal Navigators from recent sailings on the Dream, so I at least have some idea of what to expect for onboard entertainment and such. One of the cooler things that is brand new that I’m looking forward to checking out is the Navigator App for Apple or Android devices using the ship’s complimentary wifi for the exclusive use of this app. They have just added new functionality where guests can use the app for messaging, I’m assuming similar to texting, to be able to communicate with others in their party while on the ship. I can’t wait to sit on our verandah with a book, or a glass of wine, watching the sun setting over the horizon.

There is so much I want to see and do on the cruise, like the stage shows, catching first run movies, pirates night, riding the Aquaduck, checking out the Rainforest Room in the spa, enjoying fantastic food, checking out activities like wine tastings, relaxing in the hot tub, and much more. It will be interesting as this is my first real vacation not going to a theme park or specifically to visit family or friends. I will try to balance my desire to do it all with the need to relax above all else. Do you have any tips for this first time cruiser? What do you wish you had known before taking your first Disney Cruise?

Universal Orlando Resort Third Day Free Offer Returns

Universal Orlando Resort announces the return of the popular 3rd day free offer

for U.S. and Canada residents

Universal Orlando Resort announced the return of the resort’s popular 3rd Day Free Offer for U.S. and Canada residents – giving them a third day FREE with the purchase of a 2-day park ticket. This offer gives visitors even more time to enjoy the trip of a lifetime to Universal Orlando’s two theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure and enjoy all-new experiences, including the awe-inspiring The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, the incredible journey between London and Hogsmeade aboard the Hogwarts Express, the blockbuster attraction TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D and Springfield, home of America’s favorite animated family “The Simpsons.”

Exclusive U.S. and Canada Resident Offer for Universal Orlando Resort
Offer Details
Buy a 2-Day Ticket and Get the 3rd Day Free	Includes the following benefits: Three days’ access to both Universal Orlando theme parks Access to live entertainment at Universal CityWalk Or upgrade with the purchase of a combo ticket to experience either Orlando’s premier waterpark Wet n’ Wild or the Blue Man Group show, featuring incredible live performances and music Offer valid for purchase through June 7, 2015 and is valid for 14 days from the first use – must be used in full by June 20, 2015. Current price of a 2-day, park-to-park ticket is $175.99 per adult, plus tax. Blockout dates apply Dec. 26, 2014 – Jan. 3, 2015.
Make It a Vacation Package	OR MAKE IT A VACATION PACKAGE: Visitors can make it a special vacation by adding a stay at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort with a discounted vacation package starting at $425 per adult, tax inclusive. Package also includes: – 2-Day, Park-to-Park with 3^rd Day Free ticket offer – 3-nights stay at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort – Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the theme park opens Special vacation package rates are also available at Universal Orlando’s additional resort hotels Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel and select Universal Partner Hotels

Artegon Marketplace Orlando Opening Date Set

Artegon Marketplace Orlando on Pace for November 20 Opening

Artegon Marketplace Orlando is progressing on schedule toward its November 20 opening in the heart of Orlando’s tourism district on International Drive. Construction is complete on the major components of the 1.1 million-square-foot shopping attraction and artisan marketplace with paint, electrical and other finishing touches now underway.

Artegon Marketplace Orlando is a new shopping concept for the region inspired by such famous marketplaces as Seattle’s Pike Place, Boston’s Faneuil Hall, New York’s Chelsea Market and the London Flower Market. It is being developed in the former Festival Bay Mall by Paragon Outlet Partners, LLC. Considered one of the most influential and forward-thinking development firms in the nation’s retail real estate industry, Paragon is credited with redeveloping the former Belz Factory Outlet into the highly-successful Prime Outlets Orlando that eventually sold to Simon Properties. “It’s fantastic to see our vision coming to life,” said Steven Sless, executive vice president for Paragon Outlet Partners.

Unique to the center will be Florida’s largest daily indoor artisan marketplace. The Village at Artegon Marketplace Orlando houses 165 artisanal shops and stores where local purveyors will sell and demonstrate their products and services. They include Florida Soap Company, Poca’s Hottest, Vagabond Traveler, David Ramirez Chocolates and Kathryn McHenry of SOS Art Studio, along with a host of other one-of-a-kind artisans offering eco-friendly handbags and accessories, jewelry, sculpture, mixed media artwork, custom clothing and locally-sourced foods.

Sless expects the artisan marketplace to be fully leased by opening day. “We have experienced a marked increase in inquiries over the past month as interest and excitement builds among Central Florida’s top artisans and craftspeople,” Sless said. “With each passing day, we are seeing new and interesting concepts and handcrafted works arrive to our leasing office as entrepreneurs explore our exceptional business opportunity.”

Complementing The Village at Artegon Marketplace Orlando are some of the biggest brands in dining and retail. These anchor tenants include Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, Ron Jon Surf Shop, Cinemark Theaters, Sheplers Western Stores, Radbourne Center, Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill and Berghoff’s Octoberfest. The latter two venues are scheduled to open between fall 2014 and spring 2015.

Rounding out the guest experience are more than 20 in-line retailers. Highlights include GODS & MONSTERS, the first high-end innovative comics and collectibles store of its kind in the country, and the nation’s first International Hot Glass, a glass gallery showcasing artists from around the world and a studio where guests can work with a professional glass blower to create their own piece of art.

“We’ve designed Artegon Marketplace Orlando to be a highly immersive and interactive experience unlike any other in Central Florida,” Sless explained.

Beyond the artisan marketplace, anchor tenants and in-line retailers, other defining features of Artegon Marketplace Orlando include:

The Great Hall with an expansive “Climb Adventure” ropes course (paid admission) and a variety of food offerings, from coffee and Danish to pizza, sandwiches and salads.
Daily food trucks.
Free Wi-Fi both indoors and in the outdoor plaza areas.
Caricaturists, henna and jawa tattoo painters, canvas airbrush artists and other edgy performers.
Streetmosphere performers, from jugglers to singers to stilt walkers, strolling throughout the shopping attraction on weekends.
An industrial-chic environment punctuated by heavy wooden support beams, exposed brick and weathered steel.

“Artegon Marketplace Orlando is poised to become a must-see attraction for residents, visitors and conventioneers alike, providing them with a new place to experience the sights, sounds and flavors unique to Central Florida,” Thearon Scurlock, director of marketing added. “Guests can discover authentic local culture and take home a hand-made treasure and lasting memento of their trip to Orlando.”

For group outings, Artegon Marketplace Orlando is an interactive and entertaining addition to the region’s diverse options for compelling community events, off-site convention outings, corporate parties and bus tours. Mears Transportation Group is the official transportation partner for convenient taxi service, and trolley service is available along I-RIDE Trolleys’ Red Line at stop #3.

The center provides ample, free surface parking with 5,800 spaces. Operating hours are 10am -9pm Monday-Saturday and 11am-7pm on Sunday. Artisan studios will be open Monday-Saturday 11am-8pm and noon-6pm on Sunday. Artegon Marketplace Orlando is located at 5250 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. Local residents will especially appreciate easy access to the center via W. Oak Ridge Road, Sand Lake Road, and other alternatives to I-4.

To learn more about Artegon Marketplace Orlando, visit ArtegonOrlando.com. Like on Facebook and Follow on Twitter andInstagram #ArtegonMarketplace

2014 Orlando Home Show Returns October 24-26

GET INSPIRED. GET STARTED AT THE ORLANDO HOME SHOW

Featuring HGTV’s Chip & Joanna, Top Secret Recipes® Author Todd Wilbur, DIY Experts, and More

The Orlando Home Show, one of the region’s most anticipated fall events, returns October 24-26 to the Orange County Convention Center in West Concourse, Hall C facing International Drive. The three-day home improvement extravaganza is the premier place to find fresh inspiration, helpful tips, innovative products and fantastic deals in remodeling, home improvement, design and fall outdoor projects with hundreds of experts all under one roof.

Show highlights include appearances by Chip and Joanna Gaines, hosts of HGTV’s Fixer Upper, and Todd Wilbur, author of Top Secret Recipes; demonstrations by top local chefs and Elaine and David of TLC’s The Next Great Baker on the Edible Orlando Cooking Stage; and daily how-to presentations by DIY expert, Chris Tice. Plus designer rooms, a Sunday food truck rally, featured products that are new to the market or making their Orlando Home Show debut, and much more!

“Show guests will find some of the best prices and deals of the year they can’t find elsewhere,” said Cristian Moore, show manager for Marketplace Events, which produces some of the most successful and longest-running shows in North America. “There is simply no better place to shop, compare, save, and gather valuable tips from hundreds of experts in one day,” Moore added. “Whether planning a specific project or simply seeking a fun day out, inspiration starts here, and not just for homeowners. Renters will find products to make them feel right at home in their current residence. From stylish furniture and decorative accessories to an array of cash and carry items, all at excellent show pricing.”

Chief Inspiration Ambassadors at the show include Chip and Joanna Gaines, who are passionate about every aspect of the construction and design process and helping turn dreams into realities. They’ll share tips and behind-the-scenes insights from their HGTV show during appearances on the Fresh Ideas Home Stage on Friday at 6:00 p.m. and on Saturday at 12 noon and 2:00 p.m.

Todd Wilbur has made a career out of reverse-engineering famous foods. The author of Top Secret Recipes® will disclose the secret ingredients to famous fast food restaurant items during his demonstrations on the Edible Orlando Cooking Stage on Friday, October 24 at 4:30 p.m. andSaturday, October 25 at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Elaine and David will share cake decorating tips and backstage tidbits from their TLC show on Friday at 6:30 p.m., Saturday at 1:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3:30 p.m.

Guest can savor mouth-watering demonstrations and tasty samples prepared by some of the area’s favorite chefs and culinary pros throughout the weekend on the Edible Orlando Cooking Stage. Scheduled to demonstrate their signature recipes and dispense advice are chefs from Hamilton’s Kitchen; Highball & Harvest; Cress Restaurant; The Wine Barn; Barnie’s CoffeeKitchen; The Oceanaire Seafood Room; and The Boheme. Real Radio 104.1’s Dirty Jim appears on Sunday at 11:30 a.m. whipping up his favorite brunch recipe, while Edible Orlando Publisher Kendra Lott will also be on hand overseeing the culinary festivities. (All stage presentations are subject to change without notice.)

Speaking of food, the Orlando Home Show will bring back its popular food truck rally on Sunday only from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Some of Central Florida’s favorite mobile food purveyors, including Treehouse Truck, The Yum Yum Cupcake Truck, The Crepe Company, APP’S Wings, Tostones & Burgers, and Renaissance Catering of Orlando will be serving up delicious fare for purchase at the Westwood Lobby Entrance.

After fueling up at the stage or truck rally, “Stay Calm and DIY.” Do-it-yourself projects can be daunting, especially for first-timers. Enter Chris Tice. The Central Florida-based military veteran and DIY expert will demystify the process while demonstrating useful and decorative items in the show’s DIY feature area, Booth 119 (all projects will be repeated each day).

DIY is storming the nation. Who will be named the nation’s top home and gardening trendsetter? Will it be DIY Diva Leanne Lee of Parkville, Missouri? Revolutionary gardening guru David Marciniak of Culpepper, Virginia? Or will Painesville, Ohio, design innovator Ursula Carmona take home the prize? Guests, along with celebrity experts, can help select the winner of Marketplace Event’s Home + Garden Trendsetter of the Year, a search to find the nation’s most dynamic home and garden blogger. Launched last July, the online contest is culminating at the Orlando Home Showon the Fresh Ideas Stage on Sunday starting at 1:00 p.m. with the winner crowned at 3:00 p.m.

Guests can also get valuable answers to important questions about remodeling, home improvement, design and fall outdoor project from hundreds of experts around the show floor and on the main stage throughout the weekend. Learn how to save 90% on groceries without spending 90% of the time clipping coupons from savings guru Mary Edwards of Couponers United. Create favorite home improvement ideas on Pinterest with tips from Jana from XL106.7. Visit www.OrlandoHomeShow.com for a complete listing of stage presentations and times.

Other not-to-be-missed features and opportunities include Hero Day on Friday, Oct. 24 (current and former military qualify for one FREE ticket on Friday, and are invited to purchase discounted tickets at 50% off any day during show with pre-verified status at www.OrlandoHomeShow.com; and three designer rooms created by Moore Design & Interiors Group using custom and affordable pieces and specializing in pet-friendly and child-friendly materials. New and interesting products making their debut at the Orlando Home Show will be noted by a “featured product” floor tile, making it easy for guests to find them. Giveaways, enter-to-win contests and prize drawings round out the winning line-up for guests.

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 (at the box office only), 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.OrlandoHomeShow.com. Parking is available in the West Concourse and is $9 per car, per day. The Orange County Convention Center/West Concourse is located at 9800 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. Directions here: http://www.occc.net/global/directions.asp.

For more information, visit www.OrlandoHomeshow.com , or call 877-871-SHOW (7469). Connect on Facebook, Twitter (@FloridaHomeShow), and 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.

Wordless Wednesday – Autumn Castle

Wordless Wednesday – October 15, 2014

LEGOLAND Florida Salutes Military Veterans

Free Admission for Military Veterans at LEGOLAND Florida Resort

LEGOLAND salutes military veterans with free admission Nov. 1-23, family discounts available

LEGOLAND Florida Resort is proud to offer free admission to military veterans of the United States Armed Forces with appreciation days leading up to Thanksgiving in the month of November. From Nov. 1-23, veterans will receive free admission to LEGOLAND Florida, along with 50 percent off tickets for up to six accompanying guests to experience the Park’s more than 50 rides, shows and attractions.

“We are proud to honor our Veterans here at LEGOLAND Florida Resort,” said LEGOLAND Florida Resort General Manager Adrian Jones. “This is a great way for LEGOLAND Florida to say ‘thank you’ to our military men and women for their service.”

To redeem the free admission, veterans can present their military ID to LEGOLAND Florida’s ticket window the day they plan to visit. This is the second year the Park has offered this special military offer.

There will also be special additions to the Park on Nov. 10 in celebration of Veterans Day, including:

Veterans are invited to open the Park with a celebration
Guests can build a LEGO American flag mural
Veterans receive a 20 percent discount on select retail and food beverage items

LEGOLAND Florida Resort also honors all active duty military members with free admission. Military personnel including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, National Guard and Reservists are entitled to free single day admission to LEGOLAND Florida and the LEGOLAND Water Park (open seasonally). Family and friends of military personnel also receive substantial discounts on admission tickets and should make purchases in advance through participating military base ticket offices.

For more information, please visit Florida.LEGOLAND.com.

LEGOLAND ® Florida:

LEGOLAND® Florida is a 150-acre interactive theme park with more than 50 rides, shows and attractions, a Water Park and The LEGO® World of Chima presented by Cartoon Network all geared to families with children ages 2 to 12. Recently announced, LEGOLAND Hotel will open in 2015 featuring 152 highly themed rooms and suites, LEGO décor, interactive play areas, a pool and a restaurant. There are currently five other LEGOLAND Parks in the world – LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad, LEGOLAND Billund in Denmark, LEGOLAND Deutschland near Günzburg, Germany and LEGOLAND Windsor outside of London and LEGOLAND Malaysia —the sixth LEGOLAND Park and first in Asia. The LEGOLAND theme parks are a part of Merlin Entertainments Group, the second largest attractions operator in the world. For the most current information, log on to www.LEGOLAND.com.

Orlando City SC: Countdown to Groundbreaking

Orlando City SC Countdown to Groundbreaking: MLS President, Purple Sand and a Special Gift for Fans!

As the City Beautiful prepares for the highly anticipated groundbreaking of the new Downtown home of the Orlando City SC, details continue to emerge about the unique once-in-a-lifetime celebration scheduled for Thursday evening, October 16. Fans will begin to gather at Church Street Station at 5:30 p.m.

Mark Abbott, president of Major League Soccer, will attend the festivities on Thursday, participating alongside fans and dignitaries.

The Club also announced today that, in true Orlando City fashion, the ceremonial dig will take place in purple sand – over 24 tons of purple sand to be exact. The violet-hued sand will be delivered to the site Thursday morning and placed into a specially constructed box where the first dig will take place.

The groundbreaking celebration is open to all, and fans who attend will receive a unique gift to remember this day: a clear miniature Orlando City commemorative paint can which they can take use to scoop up and take home some of the purple sand from the event. Fans can pre-register for the souvenir by clicking here.

Below is a full schedule of events for Thursday evening:

5:30 p.m. – Fans gather at Church Street Station

6:15 p.m. – March begins from Church Street to groundbreaking site

~6:45 p.m. – Formal groundbreaking event begins

~7:20 p.m. – Ceremonial dig

Additional details of the groundbreaking will be announced over the coming days. Be sure to get the latest updates by followingOrlando City via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

For more information on Orlando City SC or to purchase 2015 MLS Season Tickets, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.

About the Downtown Stadium:

Through a public/private partnership, a new Major League Soccer stadium is being constructed in Downtown Orlando – it will be the future home of Orlando City Soccer Club and host to other major national events throughout the year. Scheduled to open for the 2016 MLS season, the stadium will have an initial capacity of approximately 20,000, will be LEED-certified, and will reflect the character and culture of the community, especially the surrounding Parramore neighborhood, to provide an unparalleled and truly unique fan experience.

The stadium will break ground on October 16, 2014, and is being designed and constructed by Populous, Barton Malow, and ICON Venue Group, who are widely renowned for previous works on venues such as Wembley Stadium, Yankee Stadium and multiple other MLS stadium projects. One completed, it will be operated by the City of Orlando and owned by the Central Florida community. Community funding partnerships include the City of Orlando, Orlando City Soccer Club and Orange, Seminole and Osceola counties.

The soccer stadium is part of the Blueprint Initiative that ensures the local community benefits from the construction with 24 percent of the contracts going to minority or women-owned business enterprises. For more information, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com.

About Orlando City SC:

Recently ranked 14^th among all professional teams in North America, Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is Major League Soccer’s newest expansion team. The club will begin play in MLS in 2015, becoming the league’s 21^st club. The Lions’ first team set the U.S. record for best start of any professional soccer club in its first USL PRO league 100 matches (66-12-22). Orlando City has won three USL PRO regular season titles and two postseason championships. Outside of the first squad, OCSC also has a youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U-23 team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com and www.OrlandoCityYouth.org.

Halloween Fun: #DisneySide Painting Pumpkins

I just love Halloween. With the change of seasons comes talk of pumpkins. Everywhere you turn you’ll find pumpkin candles, soaps, chewing gum, lattes, and so much more!

In our home, we get very excited about decorating pumpkins. Carving pumpkins is a favorite pastime. The only downside to carved pumpkins is their staying power. They just don’t last very long. A few years ago, we began painting pumpkins early in the season. Using an average pumpkin as our blank canvas, we can create some pretty spooktacular pumpkins that last and last and last.

Being a Disney family, we have always created Disney themed pumpkins. It is just one way we bring Disney to our home during the Halloween season! I can’t wait for you to see what we have created this year!

First up? Our FROZEN friend, Olaf!

Next, I bring you the Evil Emperor Zurg!

Last but not least, and my personal favorite, here is Mike Wazowski!

The nice thing about painting pumpkins is that you can make them as simple or as elaborate as you like. Younger kids may like to create all on their own, or maybe they’d like a little help from mom or dad. Why not let them have fun and decide?

We like to use pencil to outline our creations. Pencils are great because you can easily erase and make adjustments as you go along. Once you are happy with the design, it’s time to start painting. I have found that acrylic craft paints work best. Depending on the effect you are going for, there are matte, glossy and metallic options available. Some colors may require 2-3 coats so you will want to allow plenty of drying time in between the applications.

Have fun creating your own Halloween pumpkins!

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Hosts Michael Soluri Book Signing

Renowned Photographer Michael Soluri Hosts Presentation and Signing Event to Celebrate Space-Themed Book Release at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Guests to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will meet renowned photographer Michael Soluri November 8 for a book signing and presentation for his new book, “Infinite Worlds: The People and Places of Space Exploration.”

Guests are invited to a 30-minute presentation by Michael Soluriat noon in the Hubble Theater at Space Shuttle Atlantis, which features 19 of Soluri’s images of the NASA and Kennedy Space Center workforce. At 1 p.m., a one-hour signing opportunity will follow the presentation on the lower level of Space Shuttle Atlantis. This event is included in daily admission to the Visitor Complex.

Michael Soluri has documented humankind’s space exploration journey for more than 15 years. His new book takes a behind-the-scenes look at NASA’s centers in Florida, Texas and Maryland. Published by Simon & Schuster, “Infinite Worlds: The People and Places of Space Exploration” features more than 300 fascinating images, 15 essays and a forward by legendary former astronaut and Senator John Glenn.

About Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex brings to life the epic story of the U.S. space program, offering a full day or more of fun and educational activities, including the Kennedy Space Center Tour featuring the Apollo/Saturn V Center with an actual Saturn V moon rocket, Shuttle Launch Experience®, 3D IMAX^® space films, Astronaut Encounter, Exploration Space: Explorers Wanted and many other interactive exhibits. The new $100 million home for Space Shuttle Atlantis^SM opened June 29, 2013. Admission also includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame^®, featuring historic spacecraft and the world’s largest collection of personal astronaut memorabilia, which opens daily at noon and closing times vary by season. Only 45 minutes from Orlando, Fla., Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opens daily at 9 a.m. with closing times varying by season. Admission is $50 + tax for adults and $40 + tax for children ages 3-11. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers annual passes starting at $75 + tax for adults and $60 + tax for children ages 3-11. For more information, call 877-313-2610 or visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.