On the Go in MCO - Page 179 of 224 - A lifestyle and informational blog about all that central Florida has to offer! Enjoy our unique perspectives and news about the Orlando area attractions and resorts.

Celebrate Mother’s Day At The Walt Disney World Swan And Dolphin Hotel

The Walt Disney World Swan And Dolphin Hotel will offer free mimosas for moms at a special Mother’s Day brunch at the

character-dining restaurant Garden Grove

To help guests celebrate their moms, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel will be offering a special brunch at the character-dining restaurant – Garden Grove – this Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12 from 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

All mothers will receive a mimosa, compliments of the Epcot Resort Area hotel, to enjoy with their meal, while the entire family can enjoy interacting with some of their favorite Disney characters as they dine in the restaurant’s park-like ambiance. The specialty menu will feature items including a create-your-own eggs benedict station, salads, soups, and a buffet featuring seared branzino (fish), wild mushroom ravioli, honey-baked petite chicken and much more.

In addition to the Mother’s Day brunch, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel offers numerous amenities to make moms feel special on their day. Amenities include the luxurious, Balinese-themed Mandara Spa, five pools, a beach, Westin Heavenly Beds and much more. To check availability, make reservations and find out more information, including the latest special rates and offers, please visit www.swandolphin.com.

To make reservations, guests can call 407-934-1618 or visit www.swandolphin.com. The brunch is $35.99 for adults; $19.99 for children (ages 3 – 9); kids under three eat free. All pricing is exclusive of tax and gratuity; an 18% gratuity will be added to all checks. Discounts, promotions and coupons will not be accepted for this event.

In the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort, the award-winning Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel is the gateway to Central Florida’s greatest theme parks and attractions. The hotel is located between Epcot and Disney’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 World Resort 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.com or through Facebook at www.facebook.com/swananddolphin.

Wordless Wednesday: Lunch With Walt

Wordless Wednesday – April 10, 2013

Find Yourself In Nature At The Brevard Wildlife Corridor Expedition

Find Yourself In Nature On Florida’s Space Coast

April 6 – 21, 2013

At the Brevard Wildlife Corridor Expedition

For sixteen days in April, the Space Coast will be host to hikers, bikers, paddlers, horseback riders and more during the Brevard Wildlife Corridor Expedition from April 6-21, 2013. The Space Coast of Florida boasts a variety of habitats to explore, from coastal scrub and forested uplands to open prairies and maritime hammocks. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy an amazing diversity of ecosystems during specially planned treks and tours during the Brevard Wildlife Corridor Expedition.

Inspired by the Florida Wildlife Corridor Expedition (FWCE) that covered 1000 miles of Florida in 100 days from the Florida Everglades to the Georgia Okefenokee Swamp, in April 2012, the Brevard Nature Alliance (BNA) created a local version of the statewide expedition. We share similar goals of creating awareness of conservation lands and wildlife corridors, but the BNA chose to encourage extensive active participation of the public. The Brevard Wildlife Corridor Expedition (BWCE) will feature the active involvement of many expert guides, residents and visitors. Some Brevard events will be limited to very fit participants, like a six-day 74 mile kayaking trip in the Indian River Lagoon spanning the county. A four-day fifty mile paddling trip will follow much of the same route used by the FWCE up the St Johns River to Titusville. A two-day 38 mile trip on fat-tire bikes from Cape Canaveral to Sebastian Inlet will provide another unique experience. Many other events are far less physically demanding such as pontoon boat rides in the Indian River Lagoon, plant identification hikes and a variety of educational events. This expedition includes keynote presentations by three of the participants of the FWCE as well as a Spring Seafood Jubilee.

The BWCE moves across land and water, providing approximately 8o scheduled events from April 6-21. This event offers a variety of activities that relate to the natural areas of Brevard County. These activities will appeal to a wide range of interests, ages and fitness levels. Some of the activities include: eco-tours on horseback, by kayak or canoe and fat-tire bikes; stand up paddleboarding in the Indian River Lagoon; a nocturnal nature hike; a night critter watch ride; pontoon boat guided excursions; wildlife photography, surf fishing and plant identification instruction; and more.

Brevard Wildlife Corridor Expedition Cornerstone Events:

6-day 70+ mile Indian River Lagoon paddling and camping trip–Scottsmoor to Micco (with 3-day options)
4-day 50+ mile St. Johns paddling trip–Lake Washington to Midway
April 13: Elam Stoltzfus at Brevard Community College/Titusville – Capturing the 100 Days in Video–from the Everglades to the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, including along the St. Johns River in Brevard County.

The motto of the Brevard Wildlife Corridor Expedition is “find yourself in nature” — the event is designed to build awareness of conservation lands and wildlife corridors in Brevard County – Florida’s Space Coast.

The Expedition is being organized by local volunteers and has received support from sponsors and experts on the lands and outdoor recreation of the area, including special support from the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands program and the Space Coast Office of Tourism.

The Brevard Wildlife Corridor Expedition is presented by the Brevard Nature Alliance, a voluntary group of individuals and organizations associated for the purpose of raising the awareness of citizens and visitors to the value and importance of the natural resources of Brevard County, Florida. The group is dedicated to serving the community through educational outreach, environmental program development, strategic planning, and the sharing of information and expertise with all interested parties.

The Mission of the Brevard Nature Alliance is to build public awareness and appreciation of the value of Brevard County’s natural resources by fostering and promoting ethical nature-based ecotourism.

Israel Independence Day Family Festival

Join the Roth Jewish Community Center of Greater Orlando for their Israel Independence Day Family Festival in just 2 weeks on Sunday, April 21, 2013 from 10am – 4pm at Cranes Roost Park (map) in Altamonte Springs!

Save $5 on activity tickets when you purchase them in advance!

TrenD Report: Time To Get Ready For Spring And Le Sportsac Giveaway

TrenD Report – April 9, 2013

After my last Hit and Miss TrenD Report, I was BEYOND excited to find so many great things at my favorite store just in time for my Birthday (Do you hear that dear Hubby?)!

It is definitely time to get ready for spring at TrenD, because there are a ton of great tanks available! I love that the tanks all have a little something that makes them so perfect for so many styles and occasions. I really love the fun and flirty floral details that are being used on these tanks that are perfect for spring and summer!

I was also super excited to see two new styles of Maxi Dresses, since the last few styles have sold out! They have stayed with their love of black and white in a fun layered Hidden Mickey Maxi Dress. And expanding on the popularity of the Bambi Maxi Dress, they have a new style that is so adorable and perfect for a sunny Sunday!

They’re also using a lot of sketch designs in their shirts this year, and it’s super fun! From regular cotton shirts with fun details, to burnout t-shirts perfect for hot days, and even some great purses!

I was also able to find some fun jewelry and watches on this visit. It is great to see designs that work so well on shirts featured on watches, bracelets, and necklaces! I am especially in love with the layered necklaces!

The only item that I was on the fence about was a shiny vinyl bowler bag…it seems more appropriate for the fall, but it could also double as a fun carryon for summer trips.

The Le Sportsac It’s a Small World Global Journey Collection has found its way to TrenD, and it is quite possibly my new favorite pattern! The charm is more understated, and the pattern is more sophisticated. I love it!!!

This brings me to the fun new twist to my TrenD Report I talked about last report! I am going to start giving away one of my favorite pieces that I find once a month. And this month I will be giving away a LeSportsac Rectangular Cosmetic Case to one lucky reader!

Congratulations Liz on winning the LeSportsac Case!!!

I hope that you enjoyed this TrenD Report and that you have fun entering the contest! Good Luck!

Aztec Print Hidden Mickey Dress – $49.95

Aztec Print Mickey Tank with Embroidery – $29.95

Aztec Print Minnie Tank with Embroidery – $29.95

Burnout Chip and Dale Sketch Shirt – $29.95

Burnout Jiminy Cricket Sketch Shirt – $29.95

Le Sportsac Global Journey Collection has arrived at TrenD

Mickey and Minnie in Paris Shirt – $36.95

Minnie Mouse Vintage Charm Bracelet – $39.95

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLAIMER: I bought the Le Sportsac Cosmetic Case only using my Annual Pass Discount (Hooray 10%), and isn’t sponsored by anyone…well except for me! 🙂

Orlando Travels To Face Los Angeles Blues Wednesday

Orlando Travels To Face Los Angeles Blues Wednesday

Lions look for second straight win to begin 2013 USL PRO season in LA Wednesday night

Orlando, Fla.— Fresh off a comeback win Sunday night in Tempe, Ariz., to kick off the 2013 USL PRO regular season, Orlando City SC travels further west to square off against the Los Angeles Blues Wednesday night at Cal State Fullerton Stadium in Fullerton, Calif. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. EST. The Lions defeated Phoenix FC to begin the regular season, scoring three unanswered to top the Wolves 3-1.

The LA Blues have played two games in the young USL PRO season, topping Phoenix FC 2-0 on March 23^rd to kick off the season before falling to VSI Tampa Bay FC 0-1 on April 2^nd. George Davis IV, a former Orlando City forward, has one of the two goals scored for the Blues in 2013, with the other coming from Midfielder Christopher Cortez.

The Blues are coached by Dr. Jesus Rico-Sanz, a former Real Madrid youth player as well as former Vanlose IF coach and player in Denmark’s Second Division. He joined the Blues this past offseason, looking to turn the team around from a 9-3-12 season in 2012.

After starting the game down a goal to the expansion Phoenix side Sunday night, Orlando quickly regained composure- scoring three unanswered goals in the 35^th, 67^th and 87^th minutes. Sporting Kansas City loanee and Forward Dom Dwyer tied the match in the 35^th minute, with a wonderfully placed ball by Jamie Watson finding the striker in stride, heading it in to level the score line at 1-1.

The second half provided more scoring opportunities and chances for the Lions, including goals from Long Tan and Kevin Molino in the 67^th and 87^th minutes, respectively.

Wednesday night’s game will be live streamed on USLNation.com beginning at 8 p.m. For more information on Wednesday’s away game in Los Angeles and the upcoming home opener this Sunday, April 14, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl against the Rochester Rhinos, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

Match Recap: Orlando Scores Three Unanswered, Wins 2013 USL PRO Opener in Arizona

Orlando Scores Three Unanswered, Wins 2013 USL PRO Opener in Arizona

Goals by Dwyer, Tan and Molino propel Lions comeback victory in regular season opener

Tempe, Ariz.— Orlando City SC kicked off the 2013 USL PRO season opener in comeback fashion, defeating expansion side Phoenix FC 3-1 at the Sun Devil Soccer Stadium in Tempe, Ariz. Sunday night. After being down 1-0 in the opening part of the match, the Lions scored three unanswered to take the victory and three points to begin the 2013 regular season.

The match in Tempe began with scoring chances for the Lions, including a free kick resulting from a controversial challenge by Phoenix Goalkeeper Andrew Weber. The former Seattle Sounder took down a charging Dom Dwyer outside the 18-yard box, giving the keeper an early yellow card. The Lions couldn’t connect on the ensuing corner, but kept control early on against the expansion side.

Phoenix responded with attacks of their own, capitalizing in the 16^th minute. Speedy Midfielder Diego Faria caught the Lions sleeping just past the 15 minute mark, beating Goalkeeper and Sporting Kansas City loanee Jon Kempin after intercepting a pass from the Orlando backline to give his expansion club an early 1-0 lead.

After the early goal, Orlando settled down in the later part of the first half– nearly capitalizing on multiple chances before finally breaking through in the 35^thminute. Forward Jamie Watson found a clear lane on the right side of the pitch outside the 18-yard mark, with his pass curling in and finding a charging Dom Dwyer in stride. The Sporting loanee headed the ball past Weber, tying the match at 1-1.

The Lions came out in the second half with increased energy and fight, controlling possession for the majority of the second half. Head Coach Adrian Heath made a crucial change in the 63^rd minute, subbing in former DC United Striker Long Tan to push the attack – which is exactly what the Chinese forward did.

After a well-played through ball by 2012 USL PRO MVP Kevin Molino, Tan took care of the rest – chipping his attempt up and over Weber to give the Lions the 2-1 advantage.

Orlando wasn’t done scoring, converting their third straight after Molino found space on the righthand side, blasting his shot home to give Orlando the comfortable 3-1 lead in the closing part of the match.

Orlando now heads further west to meet the L.A. Blues for a Wednesday night matchup at Cal State Fullerton Titan Stadium. The match was originally scheduled for 7 p.m. but has moved back one hour to 8 p.m. EST kick off time. The Blues are 1-1-0 through two games in the young USL PRO season, topping Phoenix 2-0 in the league opener on March 23 before falling to VSI Tampa Bay FC 0-1 on April 2. The match will be live streamed on USLNation.

For more information on Wednesday’s away game in Los Angeles and the upcoming home opener this Sunday, April 14, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl against the Rochester Rhinos, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

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

Paul McCartney “Out There” Tour coming to Orlando’s Amway Center

Paul McCartney Adds Orlando

to All-New 2013″Out There” Tour

May 18, 2013 at Amway Center in Orlando, FL

Tickets On Sale – Friday, April 12, 2013 at 10:00 am

Paul McCartney has added more U.S. dates to his all-new 2013 “Out There” tour and will play the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida on May 18.

As previously announced, the tour will also be making stops May 22 in Austin, Texas at the Frank Erwin Center, May 29 in Tulsa, Oklahoma at the BOK Center, July 9 in Boston, Massachusetts at Fenway Park and July 12 in Washington DC at Nationals Ballpark.

Tickets to the newly-announced show will go on sale beginning Friday, April 12 at 10 a.m. at Ticketmaster.com. American Express^® Cardmembers can purchase tickets before the general public beginning Tuesday, April 9 at 10 a.m. through Thursday, April 11 at 10 p.m. All times local.

Paul McCartney’s “Out There” tour is a brand new, never-before-seen production. The tour will feature hours of material from the most beloved catalog in popular music, with McCartney performing songs spanning his entire career–as a solo artist, member of Wings and of course The Beatles.

The McCartney live experience is a once in a lifetime opportunity. For approximately three hours, many of the greatest moments of the last 50 years of musical history–not to mention the soundtracks of entire lives–are magically brought to life as only McCartney’s can do. Last year marked 40 years since McCartney’s premiere tour as a solo artist and these past four decades have seen him play in a staggeringly impressive range of venues and locations, including outside the Coliseum in Rome, in Moscow’s Red Square, at the White House, a free show in Mexico to over 400,000 people and even a performance beamed into outer space. Having played with his peerless band of Paul ‘Wix’ Wickens (keyboards), Rusty Anderson (guitar), Abe Laboriel Jr. (drums) and Brian Ray (bass/guitar) for over ten years, Paul never disappoints.

McCartney is throwing himself into 2013 with full force following yet another landmark year in 2012, which saw him conclude his record-breaking “On The Run” tour, release his Grammy^®-winning “Kisses On The Bottom” album, accept a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, play at both the Diamond Jubilee and Olympics Opening Ceremony, be named MusiCares Person of the Year and headline 12-12-12 The Concert For Sandy Relief–to highlight just a few memorable moments. With the “Out There'” tour and a new studio album in the works, it looks like 2013 will show no signs of McCartney slowing down.

The “Out There” tour will see Paul and his band travel the world throughout the year, visiting both places of historical significance to McCartney and new spots for the very first time. Further announcements and dates will be added in the coming weeks.

Stay tuned to www.paulmccartney.com for official news and updates.

PAUL McCARTNEY
OUT THERE U.S. TOUR 2013

May 18 – Orlando FL – Amway Center
May 22 – Austin TX – Frank Erwin Center
May 26 – Memphis TN – FedEx Forum
May 29 – Tulsa OK – BOK Center
July 9 – Boston MA – Fenway Park
July 12 – Washington DC – Nationals Ballpark
July 19 – Seattle WA – Safeco Field

About Live Nation Entertainment

Live Nation Entertainment is the world’s leading live entertainment and ecommerce company, comprised of four market leaders: Ticketmaster.com, Live Nation Concerts, Artist Nation and Live Nation Network. Ticketmaster.com is the global event ticketing leader and one of the world’s top five ecommerce sites, with a database of over 119 million fans who visit our sites. Live Nation Concerts produces over 22,000 shows annually for more than 2,300 artists globally. Artist Nation is the world’s top artist management company, representing over 200 artists. These businesses power Live Nation Network, the leading provider of entertainment marketing solutions, enabling nearly 800 advertisers to tap into the 250 million consumers Live Nation delivers annually through its live event and digital platforms. For additional information, visit www.livenation.com/investors.

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.

KINGS Hosts Bowl-Erina Fundraising Gala Benefiting The Orlando Ballet

KINGS – A Classy Bowling Joint- To Celebrate Its Grand Opening in Orlando with Bowl-Erina, A Party to Benefit The Orlando Ballet on Tuesday, April 16, 2013.

Come on out, support the ballet and knock down pins for pirouettes!!

Patrick Lyons, the King of Boston’s nightlife scene, is bringing his upscale bowling entertainment venue, KINGS, to Orlando. Lyons, along with Robert and Tricia Earl, announced today that they are hosting BOWL-ERINA, a night of fun and friends, to celebrate the grand opening of KINGS with all proceeds from the evening benefitting the Orlando Ballet.

KINGS, “A Classy Bowling Joint,” boasts an authentic 60’s midcentury feeling and design, combined with craft beers, cocktails, great food, music and games including 22 lanes, billiards, shuffle board and bocce all housed within a 30,000-square-foot space. With three wildly popular outlets in the greater Boston area, KINGS is ready to introduce upscale bowling to Orlando at the new “I-Drive Live” project.

“We have had our eye on Orlando as a market perfectly suited to what Kings is all about,” said Lyons. “We are honored to be here.”

For the grand opening party, guests will be greeted by klieg lights and red carpet and once inside will enjoy proprietary cocktails—including adult ices, champagne, KINGS culinary team’s special selection of goodies from the kitchen, and lots of fun, games and surprises. Live music will be provided by Central Florida favorite, Rat Pack Band and DJ Carl Christy. Everything—food, drink, live music, bowling shoes, games—is included in the ticket price. From ice sculpture installations, and nostalgic soda and candy stations, no detail has been overlooked for what promises to drive a huge crowd in support of the Orlando Ballet, the venerable organization that will celebrate its 40th anniversary next season. KINGS is generously hosting the entire event so all of the proceeds from the evening will benefit the Orlando Ballet.

“We are so thrilled and honored that our friend Patrick Lyons has chosen to support the Orlando Ballet in this way,” said Robert Earl. “Tricia and I are committed to supporting the arts in our community and are extremely grateful that KINGS is helping us keep the ballet strong with this fun grand opening celebration. We know that KINGS will be hugely successful here in Central Florida and look forward to honing our bowling skills on Patrick’s lanes.”

Ticket price for BOWL-ERINA is $65 per person and includes food, drink, games, entertainment and great music—a superb night out—and every dollar raised will go directly to the Orlando Ballet. To attend BOWL-ERINA you must be 21 yrs. of age or older. To purchase tickets please visit our site.

BOWL-ERINA is April 16 from 7pm until midnight at the new KINGS Orlando, 8255 South International Drive, Suite 120 Orlando, FL.

ABOUT KINGS ORLANDO:

KINGS, “A Classy Bowling Joint,” boasts an authentic 60’s midcentury feeling and design, combined with craft beers, cocktails, great food, music and games including 22 lanes, billiards, shuffleboard and bocce all housed within a 30,000-square-foot space. With three wildly popular outlets, two in the greater Boston area and one in Rosemont Illinois, KINGS is ready to introduce upscale bowling to Orlando at the new “I-Drive Live” project.www.kingsbowlamerica.com

ABOUT ORLANDO BALLET:

The Orlando Ballet began in 1974 as The Performing Arts Company of Florida and was started with twelve young, non-paid dancers and only $4,000. Since 2009, the company has been under the creative expertise of Artistic Director, Robert Hill. Hill is a former principal dancer with American Ballet Theater, Royal Ballet, Covent Garden and the New York City Ballet. Today, Orlando Ballet is Central Florida’s only fully residential professional ballet company and performs its annual season at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre. The Company includes not only dancers from the United States, but also Brazil, Cuba, Japan, Korea, Mexico, and Portugal. The Orlando Ballet School is currently home to over 600 students in three locations, and has trained some of the brightest young talent in the world of dance today. Graduates have gone on to dance professionally with Orlando Ballet, Joffrey Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet, The Royal Danish Ballet and the Hamburg Ballet as well other companies around the world. For more information on the Orlando Ballet including details on upcoming performances, please visit www.orlandoballet.org

Great American Pie Festival Giveaway!

While I love the holidays in Celebration, nothing makes me happier than the arrival of spring and the Great American Pie Festival!

This year marks the 12^th year that the ever popular American Pie Council Great American Pie Festival sponsored by Crisco® returns to Celebration, Florida, making the dreams of thousands of pie lovers come true on April 27^th and 28^th, 2013.

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

Admission to the Great American Pie Festival is free, and full of great activities, entertainment, and most importantly pie!

Some of the activities that you’ll find at the festival include a Pie Creation Station, pie tin art activity for art lovers of all ages, and the Pietopia Demonstration Stage sponsored by Village Inn and Bakers Square Restaurants, featuring entertainment and baking demonstrations with chefs from across the country.

And what would a Pie Festival be without the kids’ and adults’ pie eating contests that are returning this year, once again sponsored by Private Selection.

There is also a really large Children’s area that is chocked full of great crafts, some are edible and all are fun, and tons of bouncy houses. Zoe absolutely LOVES this area, and while she loves the pie this is her absolute favorite area!!! Admission to participate in all this area has to offer is $10/child, but it is absolutely worth it and a great way to work off some of the pie you’ve eaten!

However the shining star of the Great American Pie Festival is the Never Ending Pie Buffet, which last year featured an astounding 90,000 slices of pie as well as ice cream, toppings and beverages from America’s best known commercial bakers.

This year the Never Ending Pie Buffet will feature Bakers Square Restaurants and Pies, Bonert’s Slice of Pie, J. Horner’s Desserts, Kroger’s Private Selection, Publix Super Markets, Inc., Rocky Mountain Pies, Smucker’s Toppings, Village Inn, and Wick’s Pies among others.

Tickets to the Pie Buffet are $10 for adults and $5 for seniors over 65 and children under 5 to enjoy all they care of eat and drink.

Now…for the super fun part!

I am giving away a Family Four Pack of Tickets to the Great American Pie Festival’s Never Ending Pie Buffet! The Family Four Pack of Tickets includes 2 adult and 2 children’s admission tickets, and entry is easy and ends on April 19, 2013. So enter our giveaway today and every day until then!

Great American Pie Festival Giveaway!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck and I hope to see you there!!!

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

Jurassic Park 3D In Theaters Now

Today is the day – Jurassic Park 3D is in theaters!

And guess what…when I got a chance to see Jurassic Park 3D a couple of weeks in advance of the release, it was my FIRST time ever seeing Jurassic Park!

I was terrified and jumped around in my seat more times than I care to EVER admit. Seeing the t-rex torture those poor kids in that car made me freak out. Omg, I’m getting panicky just thinking about it…moving on…

Jurassic Park is definitely one of the biggest movies that has ever been released and as hard as it is to believe, it’s celebrating it’s 20th anniversary this year.

Another first for me was this was the first movie I’ve seen that’s been made into 3D. And it worked!

Steven Spielberg and his team did a great job remastering Jurassic Park into a 3D IMAX movie.

Universal Pictures will release Steven Spielberg’s groundbreaking classic JURASSIC PARK in 3D on April 5, 2013. With his remastering of the epic into a state-of-the-art 3D format, Spielberg introduces the three-time Academy Award^®-winning blockbuster to a new generation of moviegoers and allows longtime fans to experience the world he envisioned in a way that was unimaginable during the film’s original release.

Starring Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum, Samuel L. Jackson and Richard Attenborough, the film based on the novel by Michael Crichton is produced by Kathleen Kennedy and Gerald R. Molen.

(The story from the Jurassic Park website)

Make sure to follow the movie’s Twitter stream to see fans reactions and join the 3+ million fans on Facebook!

Oh, want some wallpapers, Twitter backgrounds or Twitter icons? Go here.

Are you excited for this re-release? I bet it’s truly amazing in IMAX…though those t-rex scenes would probably make run out of the theater screaming!

Disney Film Project Podcast Review

Films, for those who aren’t aware, are some of my favorite things in the entire world. My affinity for almost all things Disney mostly stems from my love of Disney movies. From there it grew to parks, music, tv shows, and beyond, but for me, it all comes back to the big screen. Imagine my excitement when a little over two years ago I learned that friends of mine were putting together a podcast revolving around reviewing and critiquing Disney films! I have to admit that I was a tad jealous that I wasn’t involved in the podcast, but that soon dissipated.

The Disney Film Project, from whence the Podcast was born, started as the brainchild of owner and proprietor, Ryan Kilpatrick. He began the project with this as his goal: “This is my attempt to view all the Disney films, both shorts and features. Read along to see what I learn as I embark on this voyage, and see what I discover as we watch the true genius of Walt Disney.” Ryan would often conduct what he called tweetwatches in a FriendFeed chat room where he would live tweet a movie and a bunch of us would all press play and watch along at the same time. We would jump in to the chat with questions and comments in awe of Ryan’s often exhaustive research regarding the film we were watching.

Eventually, the project grew into what quickly became one of my favorite podcasts, the Disney Film Project Podcast. Ryan recruited a fantastic crew of film buffs to be his co-hosts in Briana Alessio, Todd Perlmutter and our very own Cheryl Perlmutter as the glue that holds them all together as the show producer. From the very first episode on Beauty and the Beast back in January of 2011 up to this weeks episode 117 featuring Mulan, it has been entertaining along the entire way.

The podcast typically focuses on one film per episode, whether live action, animated feature, direct to video sequel or even Disney Channel Original Movies. Occasionally there are episodes that cover a theme like Halloween specials or multiple films in one, but for the most part on average a good hour or so is devoted to a single film. Each week it is apparent the effort that goes in to this podcast from the hosts of the show and their amazing research skills (always try to find a Star Wars connection).

I am one of those crazy completionists, so I diligently watch each film a few days prior to listening to the upcoming episode so it is fresh in my mind. This has been an interesting task as some of the films have been downright awful (I’m talking to you Condorman, Inspector Gadget, Beverly Hills Chihuahua 1 & 2 (and I’m sure eventually 3) and Hunchback of Notre Dame II), but even in the movies that are laborious to watch, the podcast episodes still shine. Sometimes it is even more enjoyable to hear a film completely torn apart. Along with those notoriously not good films you of course encounter the gems of classics like Mary Poppins, Darby O’Gill and the Little People (with my personal favorite, Sean Connery!!!), Cinderella, and fan favorites like the Avengers.

One of my favorite things about the Disney Film Project Podcast is that I always learn something new, whether it is a film I’ve never seen before, or one like The Little Mermaid I’ve seen dozens of times. These four take their time and do their homework to bring something fresh and new to each episode they produce. I have been fortunate to be on two episodes of the podcast for Cinderella and Up. If you want to go back and start from the beginning, you can download the mp3s via iTunes. DFPP is also available for streaming via Stitcher radio on smartphones, through the podcast app subscription on ios devices, and also streaming directly from the Disney Film Project website.

If you are looking for a new podcast that will keep you well informed and entertained when it comes to the films of the Walt Disney Company, including subsidiaries like Pixar, Marvel and Touchstone, look no further than the Disney Film Project Podcast. Go listen to what the wonky sluices over there have cooking up on their blog with new movie reviews, for films new to Blu Ray, in theaters or on the Disney Channel. This is one podcast you should definitely give a chance if you are at all a fan of Disney films and desire to learn more or even just to see if you can guess what their ratings are and if they match yours. Head on over and check them out now!

Orlando Signs Former Goalkeeper Kelley, Gallardo Out 4-6 Weeks

Orlando Signs Former Goalkeeper Kelley, Gallardo Out 4-6 Weeks

Team adds familiar face as team captain out with injury

ORLANDO—Orlando City SC announced Wednesday that the team has signed former backup Goalkeeper Sean Kelley, pending USSF approval. The move comes as starting Goalkeeper and Team Captain Miguel Gallardo sustained a knee injury in training and will be out 4-6 weeks. The team begins the 2013 USL PRO season away against expansion franchise Phoenix FC on Sunday, April 7 with kickoff set for 10:30 p.m. EST.

“We hope Miguel has a speedy recovery,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “But we are lucky to have Sean with us. He’s been with us and knows the team. It’s a great opportunity for him and it’s good to have him back.“

Kelley is familiar to Heath’s system, signing with the team in 2010 in Austin, Texas, and moving with the franchise to Orlando in 2011. The backup famously came in for Gallardo in the 2011 USL PRO Championship game, making key saves in the penalty shootout against the Harrisburg City Islanders to help secure the league championship. The Kentucky native appeared in four matches for the Lions in 2012, recording an 0.571 Goals Against Average (GAA) and two shutouts.

Kelley, along with new Sporting Kansas City loanee Jon Kempin, will have to fill in for the injured Gallardo for the beginning of the 2013 USL PRO season. Gallardo appeared in 21 games for the Lions in 2012, leading the league is GAA (.780) while recording eight clean sheets. The 2011 USL PRO Goalkeeper of the Year holds the record for clean sheets in a season with 11 in 2011.

Acquisition: Orlando City SC (USL PRO) Signs Goalkeeper Sean Kelley

Birthday: 04/15/1988

Height: 6’5”

College: George Mason

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City SC Announces MetroPCS Concert Series

Orlando City SC Announces MetroPCS Concert Series

Local bands to play in concert series before home matches in 2013

ORLANDO, Fla.—Orlando City, in cooperation with corporate partner MetroPCS, announced the 2013 MetroPCS Concert Series on Wednesday. The concert series, which will feature local bands from the Central Florida area before each home match in 2013 at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl, adds to the already exciting gameday atmosphere at Orlando City matches as the club heads into its third year of operation.

“This is our second season partnering with OCSC as the exclusive wireless provider and we appreciate their efforts in delivering our message to the Central Florida community,” said Chandra Waters, director of Advertising and Public Relations at MetroPCS. “In return, we are proud to support them on their journey toward joining Major League Soccer (MLS), as well as introduce fans to the wide range of local music talent.”

Concerts will commence one hour prior to kickoff in the MetroPCS fan zone, encouraging fans to come and experience the in-stadium atmosphere before the opening whistle blows. The band lineup, brought to you by WJRR, for the first half of the season is below. The second half will be announced at a later date. This year’s fan zone will be the franchise’s busiest, with more booths, sponsors and activities than ever before.

“The fans of OCSC are in for a real treat this season with the addition of the Concert Series during pre-game festivities,” continued Waters. “From the moment they enter the stadium, there will be a palpable feel of excitement! There will be something for everyone and we are proud to be the exclusive sponsor of the Concert Series, which will bring in some of the most talented local artists in Central Florida.”

The concert series begins with Dropa Stone at the Lions home opener on Sunday, April 14, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The band plays a rock-based style of music with blues, funk and reggae influences. The Concert Series will take place in the concourse area of the stadium and fans are encouraged to come early and enjoy the music before each match.

Lineup of bands through 6/29/13:

4/14/2013	Rochester Rhinos	Dropa Stone
4/19/2013	Los Angeles Blues	The Crazy Carls
4/27/2013	Dayton Dutch Lions	B2BB
4/30/2013	VSI Tampa Bay	Postera
5/4/2013	Antigua Barracuda	Leaving Haven
5/25/2013	Wilmington Hammerheads	To Be Determined*
6/7/2013	Phoenix FC Wolves	Empire Theory
6/9/2013	Antigua Barracuda	Savi Fernandez
6/22/2013	Fluminise	Latin Band
6/29/2013	Richmond Kickers	A Brilliant Lie

For more information on the concert series, visit orlandocitysoccer.com.

*Band for 5/25 match to be determined at a later date.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

MATCH PREVIEW: Lions Kick Off Regular Season On The Road Sunday

Lions Kick Off Regular Season On The Road Sunday

Orlando Starts 2013 USL PRO Season Against Expansion Club Phoenix FC in Arizona Sunday night

Orlando, Fla.— Orlando City kicks off the 2013 USL PRO on the road Sunday, April 7, in Phoenix against expansion club Phoenix FC at Sun Devil Soccer Stadium in Tempe, Ariz. Kickoff for the game is set for 10:30 p.m. EST as the Lions look to capture their third straight USL PRO regular season title.

“We’ve had a great preseason and I think we’ve gotten progressively better, ” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath after Orlando’s win in St. Petersburg over the Tampa Bay Rowdies Saturday night. “We’re looking forward to having another bit season.”

The Lions begin the regular season with a head of steam after concluding the 2013 preseason, which wrapped up Saturday night as Orlando captured the I-4 Derby presented by United World Soccer against 2012 NASL Champion Tampa Bay Rowdies in St. Petersburg. Orlando scored late to secure the 3-2 win over the Rowdies and 6-4 aggregate overall. Kevin Molino, Adama Mbengue and Dom Dwyer all score for the Lions in the win in front of hundreds of City supporters who made the trip down I-4.

Sunday’s opponent, Phoenix FC, is one of two expansion franchises for the 2013 USL PRO season. Phoenix was announced as USL franchise on July 2 of 2012 and is led by Head Coach David Robertson. Robertson played in over 220 first team games for Scotland’s Aberdeen, helping his squad win the Scottish League Cup in 1989 and the Scottish Cup in 1990.

His club defeated fellow expansion side and cross-state VSI Tampa Saturday night 1-0, with Phoenix’s Netinho scoring the only goal of the game, and the first in the club’s history in the Wolves’ first win. Overall the club is 1-1-0 (W-L-T), falling to the LA Blues in the USL PRO opener back on March 23.

For more leading up to Sunday’s game, please visit OrlandoCitySoccer.com.

Training Times:

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Off 10-11:15** 10-11:15 ** 10-11:15** 10-11:15**

*Practices are held at the Seminole Soccer Complex in Sanford, Fla, and are open to media. Times are subject to change. Please contact Chris Jones (cjones@orlandocitysoccer.com) on confirmed times before attending training.

**times a.m.