Central Florida Vacation Rental Manager’s Association Supports Orlando City Soccer Club’s MLS Bid
ORLANDO, FLA.– Central Florida Vacation Rental Manager’s Association (CFVRMA), the largest group of vacation rental manager’s in the state of Florida, have endorsed Orlando City Soccer Club’s (OCSC) bid to become a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise.
Following the news that a site has been chosen for the new downtown multipurpose soccer stadium, CFVRMA has decided to throw its support behind the bid for MLS in Central Florida. Wednesday, Mayor Buddy Dyer announced the $8.2 million site for the stadium as being the two blocks bordered by Central Boulevard, Church Street, Terry and Parramore Avenues. If the bid is successful, Orlando could be awarded a franchise by this December and play in MLS in 2015.
“ The vacation rental industry in Central Florida has largely flown under the radar for approximately two decades,” said CFVRMA Vice President Nigel Worrall. “In that time, the industry has grown to create over 33,000 local jobs and to bring an economic impact of over $1.7 Billion to the local economy, largely in Osceola and Polk counties.”
“We believe the time is right for Orlando to have another major league sporting team and we’d like to play a part in helping that bid,” Worrall continued. “Approximately $12 million dollars a year is created by the vacation home industry in tourist development taxes in Osceola County alone. Orange County, by comparison, collects just a small fraction of that from vacation rentals. We’d like to change that and help bring more dollars to the county. We believe we can contribute a similar amount to that collected in Osceola County if given the opportunity and that would undoubtedly help Orange County with future projects and planning.”
“We are proud to have the support of the CFVRMA,” said Orlando City President Phil Rawlins. “Tourism is important to our organization as we strive to bring a MLS franchise to Orlando by 2015.”
About Central Florida Vacation Manager’s Association: The Central Florida Vacation Rental Managers Association was founded in 1998 to unite Central Florida vacation home management companies as a professional body, and to work together to promote the vacation rental industry, support compliance and serve and protect the interests of property owners and guests. Vacation rental managers are held to a code of ethics and membership must be approved by a majority of the board of directors. Members attend monthly meetings, which include educational training, networking opportunities and updates relevant to the vacation rental industry.
WHEN: THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2013 | 7:30 P.M. WHERE: AMWAY CENTER | ORLANDO, FLORIDA ON SALE: FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 | 10 A.M.
ORLANDO, FLORIDA – American Idol® Live! returns this summer for another hit tour to showcase the season’s talented top finalists. 19 Entertainment and AEG Live announced the 40-show concert tour launches June 29 and includes a stop at the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida on August 1.
American Idol Live! gives fans the unique opportunity to be up close and personal with Season 12 Idol Finalists Amber Holcomb, Angie Miller, Burnell Taylor, Candice Glover, Curtis Finch Jr., Devin Velez, Janelle Arthur, Kree Harrison, Lazaro Arbos and Paul Jolley. Plus, Aubrey Cleland joins the tour as the 11th Idol finalist thanks to the AT&T American Idol Live! Tour Fan Save, voted on by the Idol fans.
Finalists will perform favorite moments from the season, as well as never-before-seen performances. The American Idol season finale will air on FOX on May 16 and this season’s fan-favorites will continue on with the 2013 Live! Tour.
Claire’s, one of the world’s leading specialty retailers of fashionable accessories and jewelry, joins as an Associate Sponsor of the Tour.
This year American Idol Live! partnered with The Melanoma Research Alliance (www.curemelanoma.org). For every ticket purchased for the tour, American Idol Live! will donate $1 to The Melanoma Research Alliance to help cure melanoma. Melanoma Research Alliance helps find treatments and a cure for melanoma, a skin disease whose incidence is among the fastest growing cancers.
TICKETS: $31.50, $44 & $64 – Buy tickets at amwaycenter.com, Chase® Box Office at Amway Center, Ticketmaster retail locations, charge-by-phone at 800.745.3000 or at Ticketmaster.com. All dates, act(s) and ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling and facility fee charges. For Amway Center box office and ticket information, visit amwaycenter.com (phone purchases are not available through the Amway Center box office). The Amway Center is located at 400 West Church Street and the box office is located on the north side of the Amway Center, near the intersection of Church Street and Hughey Avenue.
ABOUT AMWAY CENTER
The Orlando Magic served as the developer of the Amway Center, which hosts major national events, concerts and family shows. Opened in the fall of 2010, the facility is owned and operated by the City of Orlando on behalf of the Central Florida community. The Amway Center was designed to reflect the character of the community, meet the goals of the users and build on the legacy of sports and entertainment in Orlando. The building’s exterior features a modern blend of glass and metal materials, along with ever-changing graphics via a monumental wall along one facade. A 180-foot tall tower serves as a beacon amid the downtown skyline. At 875,000 square feet, the new arena is almost triple the size of the old Amway Arena (367,000 square feet). The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certified building features a sustainable, environmentally-friendly design and unmatched technology, featuring 1,100 digital monitors, the tallest high-definition video board in an NBA venue and multiple premium amenities available to all patrons in the building. Awarded 2012 Sports Facility of the Year by SportsBusiness Journal. For more information about the Amway Center, visit www.amwaycenter.com.
Limited Time Magic ~ April 22 to April 28, 2013 ~ Party for the Planet
This April, there’s a party going on at Walt Disney World Resort… and you’re officially invited!
Come celebrate the 15th anniversary of Disney’s Animal Kingdom park at “Party for the Planet”—an Earth Week event where you can meet some of your favorite Disney Characters, purchase collectable merchandise, and try out some tasty sweet treats!
Disney Character Dance Party
The party kicks off with a week-long character reunion, where some rarely seen Disney Characters will be making cameo appearances in Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle Parade at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park.
Stop by for a chance to see Lilo & Stitch, Flik & Princess Atta, Koda & Kenai, and Thumper & Miss Bunny as they march along, and then join them for a dance party hosted by DJ Dino-Mite in Dinoland, USA!
Commemorative Merchandise
Once the celebration’s started, make your way to Creature Comforts where you can buy celebratory clothing, commemorative pins, limited edition Vinylmation figures and other once-in-a-lifetime merchandise you won’t find anywhere else.
Can’t make it to Florida for the occasion? Take advantage of a special opportunity to order an exclusive 15th Anniversary T-shirt online… but get yours fast—the T-shirt will only be available from April 22 to April 24, 2013!
“Dig Up” Something Delicious
The Earth Week celebration continues all across Walt Disney World Resort, where for a limited time, you can “dig in” to a duo of playful desserts.
Head into Disney’s Hollywood Studios or Kona Café at Disney’s Polynesian Resort and try out the “Worm and Dirt Cupcake.” Or, travel to Magic Kingdom park or Epcot for a delightfully delicious “Worm and Dirt Tart.”
Remember, the Earth Week experience is only taking place for a limited time—don’t miss your chance to celebrate the planet in the most magical of ways!*
Orlando City Faces Top-Place LA Blues Today at 7:30 p.m.
Lions look for win over Blues after early season loss on Friday at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl
Orlando City continues their home stand this Friday, April 19th, against the LA Blues at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl with kick off set for 7:30 p.m. The two met last week in California, with the Lions upended 1-0 by the upstart Blues on their second road match in three days to begin the regular season.
“We haven’t strung a full 90 together that we’ve all been proud of, but we’re improving,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I feel that we’re getting into some sort of rhythm and we’re looking forward to the game on Friday.”
The Lions (2-1-0, 6 points) most recently topped Rochester 3-1 at their home opener on Sunday night. Inclement weather caused the game to be delayed nearly two hours, with Dom Dwyer, Long Tan and Jamie Watson scoring for Orlando after the long delay for the win.
LA (3-1-0, 9 points) stands at the top of the table through the early 2013 USL PRO Season. Orlando fell to the Blues last week 1-0 at Cal State Fullerton Titan Stadium in Fullerton, Calif. A goal in the 80th minute from former Orlando Striker George Davis IV put LA on top, giving them their first-ever victory over the Lions in franchise history.
Orlando is 2-1-1 all-time against LA, with Heath stating this year’s Blues squad is much improved over last season’s team.
“I told the guys before we played LA the first time that the Blues are going to be a lot better than last year,” Heath added. “The coach and GM are serious football people over there and we expect them to be strong.”
Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Friday, with pregame festivities including a concert by local band The Crazy Carls. Friday night’s game will be live streamed on USLNation.com. For more information on Friday’s match, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.
This summer a state-of the-art WWE Performance Center will open, and will serve as home to WWE’s talent development system, recently re-branded NXT®. We were beyond thrilled to attend the Press Conference and to be able to tour the still under construction Center.
httpv://youtu.be/QVKKmt2zSvU
The First Floor Plan of the New WWE Performance Center
Once complete, the Performance Center will be 26,000 square-feet of world class training facility featuring seven training rings, a world-class strength and conditioning program, and a cutting-edge editing and production facility focused on creating ‘Bulletproof’ athletes from the inside out.
On our tour of the WWE Performance Center, led by Paul “Triple H®” Levesque, we got a great sense of how the Center will operate once it is opened this summer.
Triple H and Governor Scott greeting us before the Tour of the Center
The all-new Performance Center will give WWE the ability to train more potential performers than ever before through a comprehensive program including in-ring training, physical preparedness, and character development.
The new center will be the training ground for talent that includes former professional and collegiate athletes, Olympians, and entertainers, and will offer a best-in-class sports medicine program creating a central location for all WWE talent to receive the best care both in and out of the ring.
The sports medicine aspect of the Performance Center will be a great asset, as it will allow doctors and trainers to work hand in hand to create stronger athletes whose health is comprehensively documented. This is especially important with rehabilitation from injuries and treatment of any future injuries.
But the highlight of the WWE Performance Center is the Training Room! This room will will feature 7 rings that will be outfitted with the same lights and equipment used for the taping of WWE Programs.
It was clear to see that the WWE Performance Center has been created to mold the next generation of WWE Superstars into complete and ‘Bulletproof’ packages. As a fan, I have to say that it was really exciting to see the care and thought that has gone into the design of the WWE Performance Center!
Not only is the creation of this Center beneficial to the future of the WWE, but it will also be contributing to the local economy as well.
Governor Rick Scott
“Our economy has created nearly 300,000 new private sector jobs in just over two years, meaning that thousands of Florida families now have the opportunity to pursue their dreams,” said Governor Rick Scott. “WWE could have chosen anywhere in the world to house this new global performance center – and they chose the Sunshine State. Today’s announcement that WWE will create nearly 100 more jobs for families in Central Florida is further proof that everything we do is geared towards job creation and its working.”
Governor Scott awarded Triple H and WWE a Florida award for Business
“We are so excited that WWE has chosen to establish its training and talent development operations in Central Florida,” said Teresa Jacobs, Mayor of Orange County. “In addition to strengthening our burgeoning entertainment production industry, the WWE Performance Center brings high-value jobs, capital investment and continued economic expansion to our area.”
Today’s announcement solidifies WWE’s presence in Orlando and evolves WWE’s partnership with Full Sail University.
Triple H spoke about the importance of the WWE’s Partnership with Full Sail University for the future growth of the company.
Last year, WWE and Full Sail announced an innovative partnership that moved live tapings of WWENXT series, WWE’s weekly one-hour show that broadcasts on WWE.com and in more than 60 countries worldwide, to Full Sail Live, the university’s state-of-the-art performance venue.
The partnership, which created a new student scholarship fund, also allows students of the university’s entertainment-focused degree programs, including Film, Show Production, Digital Arts and Design, Internet Marketing and Entertainment Business, and to gain real-world experience alongside WWE production staff during WWE NXT tapings.
I got to meet some of talented NXT talent.
“The WWE Performance Center and our partnership with Full Sail University are critical to the future of our company,” said Paul “Triple H®” Levesque, Executive Vice President, Talent and Live Events, WWE. “Orlando is now the home to the next generation of WWE Superstars.”
Triple H, his trusty sledgehammer, and several NXT performers helped in their own special way with the creation of the WWE Performance Center!
“Collaborating with WWE has elevated the education experience here at Full Sail University by creating many opportunities for our students to gain hands-on experience by being mentored by some of the best minds in the entertainment production industry,” said Garry Jones, President of Full Sail University. “We are excited to welcome WWE to the neighborhood and can’t wait to see what the future holds for this evolving partnership.”
It was beyond an honor to be able to tour the facility, meet members of the WWE and Full Sail teams, and as a fan it was great to hear the enthusiasm that Governor Scott & Mayor Jacobs have for this partnership and its expansion in the future!
This is my total Fan-Girl moment!
About WWE
WWE, a publicly traded company (NYSE: WWE), is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family friendly entertainment on its television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing platforms. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 150 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 650 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Miami, Mumbai, Shanghai, Singapore, Istanbul and Tokyo.
Additional information on WWE (NYSE: WWE) can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to http://www.wwe.com/worldwide/.
The Disney Dreamers and Doers Program, now in its 30th year, is once again open for students throughout Central Florida who serve as role models at school, at home and in their community. Approximately 400 students were selected by principals in 2012 to represent their school as a Disney Dreamer and Doer.
Students are asked to self-nominate for something they are doing at school, at home, or in their community that inspires others and makes their world, and our world a better place. Examples could include helping younger siblings to excel in school, serving as a role model to others, involvement in a community effort, or committing to a healthier and more active lifestyle with their families.
Once students are chosen as their school’s Dreamer and Doer, a panel of Disney judges will select 18 Shining Stars from elementary, middle and high schools in Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Lake and Polk counties, as well as the Florida Virtual School. These students are considered the best of the best, by consistently demonstrating outstanding character, leading by example, and having a caring spirit.
“The Disney Dreamers and Doers program is just one way we demonstrate our commitment to the children of Central Florida,” said Nancy Gidusko, director of Community Relations for Walt Disney World Resort. “We are so proud of all of these students, especially the Shining Stars. They offer bright hope for the future as each of them has a special spark. They truly are making a difference in our community and inspiring others to do the same.”
Disney Dreamers and Doers receive an honorary certificate, medallion, and four park passes. Those later selected as Shining Stars will receive a Mickey Mouse statue known as a “Mousecar” (Disney’s version of the Oscar), Walt Disney World annual theme park passes for themselves and their immediate family, a gold medallion and be celebrated at their respective schools.
Since the program’s inception more than 12,000 students have been recognized as Disney Dreamers and Doers. In the past year, Disney’s involvement in education has included Disney Helping Kids Shine grants for five school districts and early learning coalitions, sponsorship of A Gift For Teaching and A Gift For Music, donations of clothing, and more than 2.1 million school supplies donated to students at the start of the school year
Spring is in the air. Hopefully the pollen and my allergies will clear up soon and it is heating up and starting to feel like summer here in Florida. I thought I’d take this opportunity to share some of the things I’m most looking forward to over the next couple of months instead of doing that spring cleaning that I probably should be doing. Now that I’ve found out my schedule for the rest of the spring and beginning of summer, I thought I’d start planning some weekend adventures. The parks across the area have some fantastic special events this time of year, and before the kids are out of school it is a great time to get away while the crowds are lower.
Spring in bloom at Epcot’s International Flower & Garden Festival
At Epcot we are already more than halfway through the International Flower & Garden Festival. I love this event each year and have been attending since 1998! I dearly miss Davy Jones of the Monkees, as his was always my go to concert for the Flower Power Concert Series. The thing I think I am most excited about (aside from the newly added food and beverage kiosks) is that my favorite HGTV celebrity, David Bromstad, is going to be hosting presentations May 17 – 19 and I’m now off that weekend!
Star Wars Weekends
Another of my favorite things that I will get to do for the third year in a row is Star Wars Weekends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This fabulous event has quickly become a must do for me! I still have so many things I haven’t done yet that are on my to do list. I need to get up early enough and get to the park to see the Stormtroopers on top of the entrance to the park above the turnstiles. Also, I really want to get my picture taken with as many of the characters as possible and go to some of the presentations and shows. And then, of course, there is Hyperspace Hoopla, my favorite of all! My apologies to anyone who now has that song stuck in their head (Hoooooooopla, Hyperspace Hoopla…).
Viva la Música
Busch Gardens and Sea World are playing host to an awesome special event that I got to experience last year for the first time: Viva la Mύsica! This great offering is one that features Latin American food, merchandise, cuture, and of course, music. I got to go just for an hour or so to Busch Gardens after work last year and got to try to some amazing food, but was too late for the concert. This year I was hoping to catch at least one weekend at Busch Gardens and Sea World each. I was so excited when I found out that my favorite salsa band, El Gran Combo, was going to be playing at both parks. I know where I’ll be that weekend!
One of the greatest things about these three events is that they are all included in park admission. Food and beverages of course are extra, but the entertainment and most of the presentations are free of charge with your ticket. These add tremendous value to your vacation or even just a day in the park for us locals.
Water parks are definitely on my list for the next few months. I’ve lived in Florida for almost 20 years and I’ve only been to Typhoon Lagoon for a couple hours and did the lazy river and snorkled with the sharks before the park closed due to weather. This needs to be rectified. I’ve visited Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach for functions, but haven’t done a single water slide. This is a travesty! I also would love to check out some of the other area water parks like Sea World’s Aquatica and Adventure Island in Tampa.
Now we all know that sometimes with the spring come those showers that we need for those pretty flowers. What to do when it isn’t exactly park weather? Why not catch a film? Two movies I am ridiculously excited to see this spring are Marvel’s Iron Man 3 and Disney/Pixar’s Monsters University (visit this site if you haven’t already – it is hilarious!). I am a huge Avengers fan and loved the first Iron Man movie, enjoyed the second one, and adored the Avengers, so I cannot wait to see what they have in store for Tony Stark in this next installment. Monsters Inc was a great, feel good family flick and I think that this will be very entertaining to see some of Mike and Sulley’s adventures before they were best buds.
What are you looking forward to this spring? Did I miss any of your favorite spring special events? Have you been to any of these before? What are some of your favorite things to do in spring when the weather doesn’t cooperate? Hit us up and let us know.
Fantasmic! Dessert Party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Saturday, May 11, 2013 8:30pm – 9:30pm
Price: $68.72 per person – tax and gratuity included.
Experience the fun, fancy and fears of everybody’s favorite heroic mouse as he battles forces that turn his vibrant dreams into a vivid nightmare. Mickey faces off against Disney villains in a lavish spectacular of dancing water, dramatic music, breathtaking animation, lasers, fireworks, and surprises! You are invited to a private Tables in Wonderland Dessert Party! Come enjoy VIP seating at the premier nighttime spectacular at Disney’s Hollywood Studios , Fantasmic!, while you sample platters of exquisitely prepared delectable desserts.
Offerings include:
Savory Station
Artisan Cheeses, Dried Fruits, Nuts, and Sliced Baguettes
Sampler Station
Mickey Ear Brownie Bon Bons
Balsamic Macerated Strawberries, Mascarpone and Lemon Biscotti Crumbles
Lemon Pound Cake with Raspberries and Country Cream
Butter Cupcake with Maple Butter Cream and Bacon Brittle
Mickey Peanut Butter Tarts
Action Station
Warm Peach Crumble served in Mason Jar topped with Liquid Nitrogen Infused Limoncello Moonshine
Basil Lemonade, Coffees and Teas
Beer, Wine, and Cordials
For reservations, please visit the following website www.disneyurl.com/TIWFantasmicDessertParty for self-booking and instant confirmation. The website will go live and begin taking reservations on Monday, April 22nd at 10:00am.
The event is limited to 100 Guests, and is exclusive to Tables in Wonderland members. You must show your valid Tables in Wonderland ticket to gain entrance into the event.
Wordless Wednesday this week takes us to the village of Harambe in Disney’s Animal Kingdom to see some of the local advertisements.
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Culinary artistry, fine wine and celebrity chef meet-and-greets will once again highlight the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic. The event, back for its fourth year, will be held on Oct. 18 – 19, 2013 at the Epcot Resort Area hotel.
The outdoor festival will include food and beverage seminars, food and wine tastings and live music. Seminars will be led by the hotel’s chefs and certified beverage experts, while the hotel’s award-winning restaurants will showcase signature culinary selections to pair with tastings from more than 30 wineries.
Celebrity Chef Todd English, whose restaurant Todd English’s bluezoo is located in the hotel, will be in attendance to meet and greet with guests. English is a renowned restaurateur who has gained national acclaim through his line of restaurants and cookbooks, and other food-related enterprises. Todd English’s bluezoo features fresh seafood in a vibrant atmosphere.
With 17 restaurants and lounges, and a distinguished culinary and beverage team, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel continually earns national recognition for its food and beverage program. The hotel features more than 70 certified wine sommeliers and 1,400 wine selections.
Tickets to the Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic are currently available as part of a hotel package or individually. For more information or to book, please visit www.SwanDolphinFoodandWineClassic.com or call 1-800-227-1500.
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels
In the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort, the award-winning Walt Disney World Swan andDolphin Hotel is the gateway to Central Florida’s greatest theme parks and attractions. The hotel is located between EpcotandDisney’s Hollywood Studios, and nearby Disney’sAnimal Kingdom Theme Park and Magic Kingdom Park. Guests can discover 17 world-class restaurants and lounges, sophisticated guest rooms with Westin Heavenly Beds and the luxurious Mandara Spa. The hotel features five pools, two health clubs, tennis, nearby golf, complimentary transportation throughout the Walt Disney WorldResort and the Extra Magic Hours benefit, where each day, one of the four Walt Disney World Theme Parks offers additional time for guests to enjoy select attractions. (Valid Theme Park admission and Resort ID required). The hotel can be reached at 800-227-1500, www.swandolphin.comor through Facebook at www.facebook.com/swananddolphin.
Forwards Long Tan, Dom Dwyer, Jamie Watson score in home-opener victory Sunday night
Orlando City began their home schedule in winning style Sunday night, topping the visiting Rochester Rhinos 2-0 at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The Lions (2-1-0) and Rhinos (0-2-0) had to withstand a combined two hours of stoppage due to severe weather in the area as Orlando took home their second win of the young 2013 USL PRO season.
“I was confident that if we scored the first goal we’d be ok,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I love playing in the rain because the pace of the game picks up, so besides the wind I thought the conditions were fine.”
A steady rain came down on the field at the start of the game, making for a fast-paced match between the two clubs. In the 13th minute, Orlando got their first scoring chance of the game as Sporting KC and Orlando City Forward Dom Dwyer found 2012 USL PRO MVP Kevin Molino behind the Rochester backline.
Molino’s effort went off the right post after Rhino Goalkeeper Kristian Nicht was lured out of his box due to the danger, with the pressure from Orlando continuing through the beginning of the first half.
But as the rain continued and thunderclouds began to roll in, the match was postponed due to severe weather in the area in the 21st minute. The break lasted a total of 56 minutes, with the match resuming at 7:24 p.m. only to be postponed again minutes later. The game finally got underway at 8:30 p.m., totalling close to a two-hour delay.
When play finally resumed, Orlando continued their strong pace of passing and possession. Midfielder Jamie Watson nearly capitalized on a chance in the 37th minute, finding an open lane just outside the 18-yard mark with his attempt just missing the far post. The attacking continued, with it paying off for the Lions in stoppage time of the first 45. After Kevin Molino followed up an attempt from Dwyer, Tan found the rebound – blasting his attempt past Nicht for the 1-0 lead.
The Lions didn’t let up in the beginning of the second half, jumping on the Rochester backline to score the second goal of the game. Winger Bryan Burke placed a well-played cross to a charging Dom Dwyer in the 47th minute, who easily slotted home his second goal of the season to give Orlando the 2-0 advantage.
Watson continued the scoring for Orlando in the 62nd minute, cleaning up a loose ball in the Rhinos’ box for the 3-0 advantage. Rochester scored in the 90th minute of play as Forward Blake Brettschneider lofted his shot up and over Orlando Goalkeeper Jon Kempin. The score was too little, too late, however, with the Lions taking home the victory 3-1.
Orlando continues home play this Friday, April 19th, against the LA Blues. Orlando has already played the California-based squad this season, falling 1-0 on the road in Fullerton, Calif. Blues’ Forward George Davis scored the lone goal in the 80th minute for LA, propelling them to the home win. The Lions are 2-1-1 all time against the Blues in four meetings between the two clubs.
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.
KINGS Bowl Orlando soft opens today, and is sure to
change the face of nightlife on I-Drive!
KINGS Bowl first opened their doors in 2003 in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay. With a retro-inspired décor KINGS focuses on creating unique and memorable entertainment experiences with an emphasis on food, creative cocktails and beer selection, cutting edge technology, and a fun atmosphere with music to keep the party going.
This 30,000 square feet location is a lot more than just “bowling”…it’s an entertainment venue where you will find:
22 Ten Pin Bowling Lanes
Four Full-Size billiards tables
Regulation size, outdoor Bocce ball court
Full-service, executive chef driven restaurant serving award-winning food
Two premium bars serving fun and innovative cocktails
Customizable private space for parties of 10-800 people including corporate/team-building events, birthdays, bachelor(ette) parties, kids parties and more
Over 60 giant HDTV’s and HD projector screens
Industry best sound, lighting and music environment
Regulation Shuffleboard Table
When we were treated to a preview of KINGS Bowl Orlando, we were able to try some of their food and drink options.
Sesame Ginger Chicken Wings with Chili Soy Sauce
Executive-Chef Andre Bautista has won numerous awards and has created a menu for KINGS Bowl Orlando showcasing American comfort food with a kick. Each dish has a unique, unexpected and playful twist that leaves diners delighted. Hand-formed buffalo wontons, house-smoked ribs, marinated steak tips and seared scallops are among Chef Bautista’s most popular and mouth-watering dishes on the Kings menu.
Born in Santos, Brazil, Chef Bautista has also embraced his roots and the large Brazilian tourist population in Kings’ Orlando location by adding “Moqueca,” a traditional Brazilian clay pot fish stew, to the menu.
Moqueca
I have to say that my favorites were the Hand-Formed Buffalo Chicken Wontons, Sesame Ginger Chicken Wings with Chili Soy Sauce, and the Chocolate Banana Spring Rolls were out of this world!
The Buffalo Chicken Wontons that were delish!
And the cocktail menu is beyond creative! Everyone really enjoyed the Fizzy Lifting Drink! It’s such a playful (and delicious) nod to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory!
Fizzy Lifting Drink!
But one of the coolest, and exclusive to KINGS Bowl Orlando, is the two booths that feature their own beers on draft. That’s right…You just tell your server how many pints you would like to purchase, and you then get to pour the beers you want at your leisure. It’s pretty awesome!
The 4 taps rotate in the center of the table…seriously this is such a cool idea!
If Private Parties are your thing, KINGS Bowl Orlando has two private bowling/party space and party planners that are on staff to help make any party a success. From a fun gathering to a Bar/Bat Mitzvah party, you’re covered at KINGS!
The King Pin Room is a private area featuring 4 lanes, private entrance, access to the Bocce Ball Court, and disco balls!
There are a few things to keep in mind if you’re going to visit KINGS…
Age/ID Policy:
Must be 21 or over to enter the premises after 6:00PM. All persons must present a valid legal ID for proof of age.
In order to consume alcoholic beverages, you must establish that you are at least 21 years of age. You must have a valid identification card issued by a state governmental agency containing your photograph, date of birth, height, sex and color eyes. Kings is unable to accept forms of identification that are expired, cracked, altered, or damaged in any way.
Please note: All forms of identification must NOT be expired Kings does not accept paper or international driver’s licenses as a form of ID. Kings staff may ask for back up identification at any time and for any reason.
Acceptable forms of ID are:
A valid Florida driver’s license
Passport
Out-of-state license w/back-up
Valid Florida ID with a valid expiration date listed
United States Active Military ID
A valid Foreign driver’s license
House Policies
House Policies
No horseplay or other disturbing or disruptive behaviors
Any person who damages Kings property or equipment shall be held liable for its repair or replacement
Loitering on these premises or in the adjacent parking areas is strictly prohibited
Dress Code
No excessively baggy clothing of any kind
No work style boots
No baseball caps
No bandanas/doo rags
No sleeveless shirts
No bluetooth devices
No oversized chains or pendants
Persons wearing torn or soiled clothing may only be admitted at the discretion of Management
No hats, clothing, jewelry or visible tattoos with profanity or objectionable art
Sunglasses may not be worn on the premises
All back packs and/or bags are subject to be searched by Kings staff
Kings reserves the right to modify the dress code guidelines for any reason, including or due to local or seasonal conditions or special events.
Located on I-Drive behind Ripley’s Believe It or Not! And Charley’s Steakhouse. Enter from I-Drive or Universal Boulevard.
Hours of Operation
Opening April 15th, 2013
Monday, April 15th – 6:00PM-10:00PM
Tuesday, April 16th – Private Event, Closed to the Public
Wednesday, April 17th – Private Event, Closed to the Public
Thursday, April 18th – 6:00PM-12:00AM
Friday, April 19th – 6:00PM-12:00AM
Saturday, April 20th – 2:00PM-2:00AM
Sunday, April 21st – 12:00PM-12:00AM
Monday, April 22nd – Private Event, Closed to the Public
Tuesday, April 23rd – 5:00PM-2:00AM
Wednesday, April 24th – 5:00PM-2:00AM
Thursday, April 25th – 11:00AM-2:00AM
Friday, April 26th – 11:00AM-2:00AM
Saturday, April 27th – 11:00AM-2:00AM
Sunday, April 28th – 11:00AM-2:00AM
Also, they are having a great fundraiser for the Orlando Ballet called Bowl-Erina on April 16th and you can find out more about it here.
We really enjoyed our time at KINGS Bowl Orlando, and it is a great way to spend a fun and upscale night with friends, a unique date spot, or just a great place to host an event. We can’t wait to go back!
The 10th Annual Celebration Exotic Car Festival children’s charity event is here again! This event showcases North America’s largest collection of exotic cars, race cars and iconic Hollywood movie cars, coming together to help children with life threatening medical conditions. Enjoy the world class exotic car concours set along the waterfront of Celebration, meet world famous chefs at the Food and Wine at Portofino event, participate in the acclaimed road rally, and more!
As one of the largest exotic car festivals in the world, they are also one of the only events that donate 100% of the net proceeds to charity. Since 2004, over $800,000 has been donated to children’s charities, including Make-A-Wish, Special Olympics, and Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospitals just to name a few through the efforts of this event!
Celebration Exotic Car Festival Schedule
Saturday, April 13
Concours of Exotic Cars
10 am-4:00 pm
FREE ADMISSION-OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Saturday morning, the peaceful waterside village of Celebration will welcome 250 of the planets most exotic cars, race cars and Hollywood movie cars in a world-class concours event. Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini, Bugatti, McLaren, Lotus, Bentley, Rolls Royce, Aston Marti, Pantera, DeLorean, and others will be competing for Class Trophies and the coveted Best of Show. Now in it’s 10th year, the Celebration Exotic Car Festival has been named one of the 5 Best Car Shows in the World by Made Man Magazine.
Located across from the Walt Disney World Resort, Celebration offers an ideal setting for the concours. Take a stroll around the lake, enjoy lunch at one of the sidewalk cafes, and browse the eclectic collection of shops.
1958 Plymouth Fury – Christine (Steven King)
Batmobile – 1989 Batman Movie
Batmobile
Batmobile-1966
DeLorean Time Machine – Back to the Future
Ferrari – Lightning McQueen
Hot Rod – Happy Days
KITT – Pontiac Trans Am – Knight Rider
Lamborghini Countach – Cannonball Run
Lamborghini Diablo – Dumb & Dumber
Landspeeder – Star Wars
Mutt-Cutts-Dumb and Dumber
Volkswagen Beetle – Herbie Goes Bananas
Saturday, April 13
Food & Wine at Portofino, Loew’s Portofino Bay Resort
Universal Orlando
7:00 pm-11:00 pm
This high-energy event is the party of the year! the annual Food & Wine party will take place harborside at the stunning Loew’s Portofino Bay Resort at Universal Orlando. A virtual duplication of the beautiful seaside town of Portofino, Italy, this idyllic waterfront setting is the perfect location to enjoy fine wines and incredible cuisine! More than 50 local restaurants and renowned celebrity chef’s join to prepare a world-class culinary and fine wine extravaganza. Highlighting the evening will be a display of exotic cars, live music, performance artists, silent and live auctions, and much more!
Sunday, April 14
Rally10:30 am (Drivers Meeting 9:30 am)
Join us Sunday Morning for a fun and competitive rally! Following a drivers meeting and Continental Breakfast, drive your exotic car as it was meant to be driven, with a Police Escort to get us on our way. See the sights and enjoy the wide open roads of Central Florida! Wrapping up the event, enjoy a fantastic awards luncheon back at Cafe D’ Antonio in Celebration.
Check out the official 2013 Celebration Exotic Car Festival here for more information about the festival.
Expert Unveils 2010 Dive Footage for 101st Anniversary at Titanic 101.
Titanic The Experience is hosting an informational session to honor the 101st anniversary of the sinking of the R.M.S. Titanic. Paul Henry (P.H.) Nargeolet, the leading authority on the Titanic wreck site, will be hosting an interactive, entertaining and educational sessionwhich will highlight the unveiling of newly released dive footage from Expedition 2010 to Orlando.
Nargeolet has led 5 expeditions to the wreck and completed 30 dives in a submersible. He has supervised the recovery of 5,000 artifacts, including the recovery of the “big piece,” a 20-ton section of Titanic’s hull, a portion of which is on display at Titanic The Experience.
“Titanic 101” is included with paid admission to Titanic The Experience, but times are limited and advance purchase is recommended.
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Session 1: 12;00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Session 2: 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. – SOLD OUT
Session 3: 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Session 4: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – SOLD OUT
Tickets for Titanic 101 may be purchased at the Exhibition Box Office, by calling 407-248-1166, or online.
About Titanic The Experience:
Titanic The Experience reopened in January 2012 after undergoing extensive enhancements and renovations under the new owner, Premier Exhibitions and RMS Titanic, Inc. Among the additions, 100 authentic artifacts recovered from the wreck site of Titanic were added, in celebration of the 2012 Centennial anniversary of the sinking of Titanic. The second largest piece of Titanic ever recovered, a two ton section of the Ship’s hull, is now the centerpiece of this interactive Exhibition.
Titanic The Experience is located in a 20,000 square foot museum quality space on International Drive. The Exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the legendary Titanic like never before. Trained actors in period costume depicting famous passengers from the Ship lead guided tours through the Exhibition’s 17 galleries complete withfull-scale re-creations of the Titanic’s most famous rooms, including her Grand Staircase, First Class Parlor Suite, Boilers and Promenade Deck. More information about the Exhibition can be found by visiting: www.TitanicTheExperience.com
Titanic The Experience
7324 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819
The exhibition is located between Sea World and Universal Studios on International Drive
Some of my favorite moments in Epcot over the years have not even been while enjoying attractions. There are times where you just need to sit, or stroll, and take time to relax with your friends or family over and adult beverage or two. Partaking in the drinks from the countries of Epcot’s World Showcase is a great way to spend time with friends while waiting for your Fastpass window for Soarin’ or Test Track to roll around. Today I will share some of my favorite bars, beverages and even a few stories (some tales of caution).
Bars
For me, there are three fantastic bars at Epcot that I tend to frequent. That isn’t to say there aren’t more bars that are great, but these are my three favorites and each for a different reason. On any given day I will find it challenging to rank these in order of preference, so I don’t feel inclined to do so here. They are all winners for drinks in my book.
La Cava Del Tequila – I remember this place back when it was my favorite jewelry shop in the Mexico pavilion. I even have several of the rings I purchased from said shop still. The name says it all, or most of what this place is about. In the immortal words of The Champs, Tequila! (Feel free to jump on the bar and do the Pee Wee Herman dance, but if you do, I am in no way responsible.) This cozy little cave of a bar offers about 10 tables with chairs and bench seating, a sofa and stools as well as a high top table for standing in addition to the bar, also standing room only. If you aren’t there for rope drop (yes, more than once I’ve rope dropped this particular bar), on busier days you may find yourself adding your name to the waiting list or even queuing up outside waiting for a drink.
The margaritas here are great! My favorites currently vacillate between the avocado, blue and if you can get them to make it, the orange mango fire margarita. They also serve some non-alcoholic drinks in addition to beer, wine and sangria. Several pages of the menu are devoted to individual tequila shots, tequila infused cocktails and flights. Do not, I repeat, do not be tempted by the offer of the bartenders to give you a free shot if you eat the scorpion from the bottle. I know from experience it is not worth it. However, it is quite an interesting experience to have dozens of strangers chanting your name to try to encourage you to do so. Friends and I may also be known for holding court and rotating out people hanging there for four hours plus on repeated occasions. Appetizers here are also quite tasty with the guacamole and queso being two of my favorites.
Tequila shotSizing up the scorpionPreparing to eat the scorpionChewing the scorpionDrinkThe scorpionAvocado margarita
Rose & Crown Pub – In the UK Pavilion, this restaurant and bar is situated along the shores of the World Showcase Lagoon. If you are looking for a great location from which to view Illuminations on a nice warm evening, see if you can get a reservation for around 8pm or so and let them know you’re willing to waiting for an outside table facing the water. It is an incredible view! The food here is great, although I still lament the loss of the Sunday Roast off the regular menu. I still love the corned beef sandwich off the pub menu (make sure to get mustard not mayo). This is yet another wonderful place to sit with friends, raise a pint or two, and just talk. They do offer some entertainment in the form of tricks from the bartender Carl (if you ask nicely) and Carol, the Hat Lady, performs most evenings singing songs and getting the pub patrons involved. My favorite drink here is definitely the snakebite and black, which is not on the menu, but I haven’t had a bartender yet who didn’t know immediately how to make it. I’m also a fan of just a nice pint of Guinness or Harp to wash down the fish and chips too. Cheers!
Pints with Tom
Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar – This relatively new locale in Italy is quickly creeping up the list as one of my favorites. They have a really extensive list of wines by the glass and also beer and some cocktails. In addition to beverages, the bar has a great menu of appetizers, small sandwiches and salads, and dessert. I was just there this past week and tried the cannoli for the first time and found myself cheesily exclaiming holy cannoli! I love the prosecco, especially if you like more dry white sparkling wines, but also the espresso martini is a great choice if you’re looking for something with a bit more punch. I really like how there are different sections to the bar and even for being a bit dim as far as the lighting, it still feels kind of light and airy. If you can, try to get the room with the sofas to yourself if you have a large enough party.
Holy cannoli
Drinks
Although not all of the countries around World Showcase necessarily have bars where you can sit and enjoy an adult beverage, pretty much all of them offer unique drinks. In addition to the ones I’ve mentioned above, here are some more of my favorite things to imbibe while strolling around World Showcase at Epcot.
Mexico – I almost always go to La Cava and nowhere else and alternate between margaritas and tequila shots or flights. No Scorpion shots ever again.
Carlsberg and school bread
Norway – If you get a chance, stop in at Kringla Og Bakeri and grab a Carlsberg. While it may seem like an unconventional choice, I enjoy this to pair with one of my favorite desserts: school bread.
China – I go back and forth between the Peach Snap and the Mango Gingerita at the Joy of Tea kiosk. I remember bonding with friends Lori, Becky, Sarah and Tim for the first time over drinks in China several years ago during reunion 2010.
Germany – I have to go with any or all of the beers in Germany from either the carts or Sommerfest stand. Also, if you enjoy wine, check out the wine walk that also includes Italy and France.
Italy – My previous go to for sipping and strolling was the Rosa Regale, but I can get that at my grocery store, so I switched to the Italian margarita after having been introduced to it by my friend Kelly a while back.
America – At the Fife & Drum I will almost always go for the Sam Adams either regular Boston lager or seasonal beer. Occasionally I will partake in the Jim Beam Red Stag Lemonade that stuck around for a while after arriving at the Food & Wine festival a couple years ago.
Japan – I like to try different types of sake, especially when they have ones that are special and less expensive, from the back of the sake bar in the Mitsukoshi store.
Morocco – My usual is a Casa beer at the Tangierine Cafe (my favorite counter service location in Epcot BTW), but I also enjoy an occasional Moroccarita from the stand outside. Then there was that one time where I went to Tangierine Cafe to get a shawarma platter and a glass of wine and ended up with three and a half glasses of wine. Those Moroccan boys said “oops, this bottle’s almost done. Here, finish it up. Oh, I guess there’s more in there than we thought. Drink that and then we will give you some more.” Okay boys. Whatever you say. That was a good day. 😉
Kir Royale and almond croissant
France – Ah, the French. They tend to spoil me by offering a multitude of tasty beverages. My favorite though has to be a Kir Royale. This is followed closely by the Grey Goose and Grand Marnier slushes. Most wines are also quite good if you like dry wines, but I learned my lesson and avoid the beer. Just not a fan. Stick to the grapes or aperitifs.
UK – I almost always get a snakebite and black, but again will not turn down the pints of Harp or Guinness served at the stand outside the Rose & Crown.
Canada – Several years ago my friend Tom told me of his tradition to try to always make the last drink of his trip a Moosehead from the beer cart in Canada, so I have adopted this as my go to drink here. However, if you can find it, which they occasionally have here, try any of the Unibroue beers, especially the Ephemere.
Moosehead while waiting for Off Kilter
So, I hope you have enjoyed this trip around World Showcase with me and some of my favorite drinks. If any of you are wondering, no, I have never done the unofficial drink around the world with one drink in each country in one day. Number one, I don’t have the budget for that, two, I’m usually driving and I am more responsible than that, and three, I think I’m too old for that. What are some of your favorite drinks? Have you any stories you wish to tell of bonding over quaffs? Please do tell.
