City says no to proposed Orlando Thrill Park

While developers were planning coaster rides on the north end of International Drive, local residents were imagining the extra traffic and noise generated by a theme park literally in their back yards, which is why the Orlando zoning board recently voted unanimously to reject the proposal for the Orlando Thrill Park near the Tangelo Park neighborhood.

According to a recent article that appeared in the Orlando Sentinel, the city's Municipal Planning Board voted 9-0, with two members abstaining, to deny the zoning and land-use changes requested by backers of Orlando Thrill Park. Local residents had expressed concerns that their property values and quality of life would be adversely impacted by the new theme park, which was slated to have 14 rides, including 8 roller coasters.

Staying safe at the beach

As Orlando’s closest beach, Cocoa Beach is a popular day trip destination for many Orlando visitors, and with temperatures heating up (and the ocean water by the coastal areas becoming bathwater warm) a lot of people are flocking to the area beaches to frolic in the waves for a day. With beach season in full swing, here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:

• Pay attention to the flag warnings: A green flag means the seas are calm, while a yellow flag warns of moderate surf and rip current conditions. Red flags are high surf warnings and dangerous rip currents, and the purple flags indicate dangerous marine life (usually jellyfish, but the flags will go up for shark sightings as well).
• Bring sunscreen—and keep reapplying it all day: Whether or you spending a day at the beach or a theme park, sunscreen is a necessity for outdoor activities in the Sunshine State. Sunscreen will be cheaper—and in abundant quantities--in local groceries stores than tourist gift shops.
• Know what to do in a rip current: Rip currents are most dangerous to swimmers because they attempt to swim against the current to get back directly to shore and exhaust themselves. If you are caught in a rip current swim parallel to shore and gradually make your way back to land. Swimming close to a lifeguard station is another way to ensure that you won’t be “on your own” in the water.

Springtime is a wonderful time to enjoy the natural beauty of the sun, sand and surf that draw millions of visitors to Central Florida each year. By keeping safe in and out of the water, you will ensure that your next Orlando area vacation will be one to remember.

Space shuttle Endeavour prepares for final launch April 29

Preparations are underway for space shuttle Endeavour’s final mission, with the launch time tentatively scheduled for 3:47 p.m. on Friday, April 29. The entire space shuttle program is expected to end this summer with Discovery’s final mission, so thousands of space buffs and curious onlookers are expected to descend upon Florida’s Space Coast for Endeavour’s final mission, STS-134.

Orlando visitors can reach the Space Coast via the Beach Line Expressway (SR 528). The drive to the Space Coast might only last an hour, depending on how close it is to the launch but be prepared for at least a four hour drive back to Orlando after the launch.

According to the NASA.gov website, Endeavour will deliver the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS) and spare parts including two S-band communications antennas, a high-pressure gas tank, additional spare parts to the International Space Station during its 14 day mission. The commander of the mission will be Mark Kelly, who will be joined by Pilot Gregory H. Johnson and Mission Specialists Michael Fincke, Greg Chamitoff, Andrew Feustel and European Space Agency astronaut Roberto Vittori.

After this mission, Endeavour will retire and be sent to the California Science Center in Los Angeles. Atlantis will have its final mission later this year (with a target launch date of June 28) and will remain at Kennedy Space Center on permanent display upon its return. Space shuttle Discovery, which had its final mission in February, will be sent to the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum.

Since shuttle launches can be scrubbed for a number of reasons right up until the last few minutes of the countdown, always check http://www.nasa.gov/ or a local news station, such as http://www.wesh.com/ for the latest updates on the status of the mission.

Mothers Day Ideas in Orlando

In celebration of Mother’s Day, the resort is hosting a weekend package with a picture-perfect element sure to make it onto your Facebook wall. The package, called Mother’s Day Breakfast in Bed Experience, will honor mothers visiting the resort with their children.

On Mother’s Day morning (May 8, 2011), children will put on chef hats as they help create and plate a special breakfast with the assistance of the chefs at Harvest Bistro. Fresh heart-shaped pancakes and homemade jams and jellies are just a few of the delicious treats that your children can help create for you.

As the resort’s guest of honor, your special breakfast will include a beautiful floral bouquet that your children assembled from an assortment of freshly cut flowers.

Both the breakfast and the bouquet will be shared with Mom, waiting in bed in her guest room.
The experience is available as part of the Mother’s Day Breakfast in Bed Experience package, available by visiting our website: www.hiltonbonnetcreek.com/mothers or by calling 1-888-353-2013, and reference SRP code P5.

Cocina 214 in Winter Park

The Winter Park dining scene is about to experience exceptional Tex-Mex, bold flavors and creative cooking techniques with the opening of COCINA|214.

The restaurant will celebrate its grand opening - fittingly - on Cinco de Mayo.

COCINA|214 customers will find contemporary Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes unique to Central Florida.

As the COCINA|214 business partners traveled throughout the country, they were reminded of the lack of authentic Mexican and quality Tex-Mex food in the Orlando area. Unable to find these bold flavors they enjoyed elsewhere, they decided to create their own concept in Winter Park - the result is COCINA|214.

Executive chef, Francisco Mendonça, known as "Chef Chico," will bring an international cooking background to COCINA|214 by infusing European flair into an authentic, yet innovative, Mexican menu.

"Cocina 214 will offer guests a completely unique experience," said Mendonça. "Our favorite dishes infuse classical French cooking into Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, to bring a whole new taste to the region."

COCINA|214's signature dishes include:
• Carne Picante - diced Filet Mignon seasoned with garlic, onion, tomato, cumin and Negra Modelo.
• Camarão Con Piri-Piri - fried Rock Shrimp flavored with grilled lemon and served with piri-piri sauce on the side.
• Atun Crudo - thinly-sliced Ahi tuna served with jalapeño yuzu vinaigrette and cucumber mango slaw.
• Street Tacos - chile rubbed skirt steak seared with onion, cilantro, de arbol and roasted garlic salsa.
Customers will also find exceptional Tex-Mex including: fajitas, enchiladas, nachos and quesadillas - created in COCINA|214's healthy and flavorful signature style.

The restaurant is dedicated to using sustainable purveyors and ocean-friendly seafood whenever possible, such as Mahi-Mahi, Yellowtail Snapper and Tuna.

COCINA|214 will offer guests daily specials, a fully-stocked bar, patio seating, a large private dining room with seating for up to 60 guests, all in a family friendly environment.

"We saw an opportunity in Central Florida for a chef-driven contemporary Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurant, so we have created COCINA|214,'' said Russ Greer, managing parhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.giftner of the Cocina 214 ownership group. "Chico's dishes will provide a unique array of spices and flavors, in a beautiful, contemporary setting with a staff dedicated to quality customer service."

COCINA|214 is located at 151 Welbourne Ave. East (directly behind Williams-Sonoma). The 8,220 square foot building will seat 171 people. Cocina 214 will be open seven days a week, offering lunch and dinner, with complementary valet parking for dinner. You can contact COCINA|214 by phone at 407-790-7997 or on the web at cocina214.com. For the latest news on Cocina 214 follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Central Florida's favorite wine event

WineQuest
June 10-12, 2011
Grande Lakes Orlando

WineQuest celebrates its 15th year as Central Florida's favorite wine event series with a collection of fine wine tastings, dinners and auctions. Join us for this multi-day celebration at Grande Lakes Orlando resort and sample nearly 200 wines fhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifrom around the world, savor a delectable five-course farm-to-table wine dinner, and taste the freshest local flavors during an exclusive al fresco garden brunch - all to benefit local nonprofit Quest, Inc. Visit www.winequest.org or call 407.218.4300 for tickets and information.



2011 Schedule:
Friday, June 10, 2011

WineQuest Golf Classic
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Orlando, Grande Lakes

WineQuest Grand Tasting & Auction
JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes

Saturday, June 11, 2011

WineQuest Premier Dining Experience
JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes

Sunday, June 12, 2011

WineQuest at Primo
JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes



Grande Lakes Address
4040 Central Florida Pkwy.
Orlando, FL 32837


WineQuest Golf Classic
Friday, June 10, 2011
7:45am
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Orlando, Grande Lakes

Kick off this year’s WineQuest series with the Golf Classic at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Orlando, Grande Lakes. Designed by two-time British Open Champion Greg Norman, this luxury course provides golfers with an unprecedented experience not typically found in Florida.

The practice range opens at 7am with coffee and breakfast, followed by a 7:45am shotgun start. Enjoy four food and beverage stations strategically placed throughout the course as you enhance your golf game with The Ritz-Carlton’s innovative Caddie Concierge Program. As the first of its kind in the region, this unique service pairs a knowledgeable attendant with each group to provide accurate yardage, bunker raking, tips for playing the course and more.

Following the conclusion of play will be a cookout featuring classic favorites with an upscale twist. End the afternoon with an awards ceremony and a scotch and cigar smoker to celebrate your tournament victories!

$450 per twosome until May 9 | $500 per twosome regular pricing - advance tickets only
$850 per foursome until May 9 | $900 per foursome regular pricing - advance tickets only


WineQuest Grand Tasting & Auction
Friday, June 10, 2011
7pm - 9:30pm
JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes

Join us for a fun Friday night of wine and food exploration at the 15th annual WineQuest Grand Tasting & Auction! Travel the greatest wine-growing regions in the world with nearly 200 wines from around the globe. Sip on your favorites and sample new selections as wine experts and purveyors guide you in your journey.

Select wines will be paired with eight eclectic food-tasting stations celebrating the diverse cultural backgrounds of the Grande Lakes culinary team. Savor the exotic flavors of Peru, Turkey, Vietnam, Morocco, Japan, America, Jamaica and Puerto Rico and discover how wine can be enjoyed with many styles of cuisine! Finish this exciting evening on a high note with impressive live and silent auctions, offering something for all tastes.

$75 per guest until May 9 | $80 per guest regular pricing - advance tickets only
WineQuest Premier Dining Experience
Saturday, June 11, 2011
7pm Sparkling Wine Reception
8pm Dinner & Auction
JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes

Indulge in a true gourmet farm-to-table dinner starring locally sourced foods at the WineQuest Premier Dining Experience. Following a sparkling wine and hors d'oeuvres reception, the award-winning Grande Lakes Orlando chefs will orchestrate a sophisticated rustic menu inspired by New American cuisine. The five-course meal will be expertly paired with fine wine and studded with only seasonal ingredients from regional farms and artisans.

This limited-seating, intimate dining event includes an exclusive presentation of each chef’s custom creation for guests to learn about the wine pairings and where their food comes from. Conclude this unforgettably delicious meal with a decadent dessert reception and discover the excitement of the live and silent auctions, featuring a variety of wine collections, getaways, entertainment experiences and more!

$155 per guest until May 9 | $170 per guest regular pricing - advance tickets only


WineQuest at Primo
Sunday, June 12, 2011
11 am – 1pm

Top off your WineQuest weekend with a sumptuous al fresco brunch in the Primo garden. Filled with seasonal summer favorites, the menu will highlight Primo’s “homegrown concept” through local farm-fresh fare and organic ingredients harvested right on site.

Enjoy both traditional staples and contemporary offerings with food stations serving locally raised carved meats, crisp side dishes, regional fruits and juices, and light desserts from the Grande Lakes Orlando pastry team. Along with plenty of refreshing wines and a mimosa bar, you won’t want to miss this first-time garden brunch event available at Melissa Kelly’s Primo only during WineQuest.

$55 per guest until May 9 | $60 per guest regular pricing - advance tickets only

All-Inclusive Vacations

Every traveling person should know about what is really entailed when resorts and hotels consider themselves "all-inclusive".  You can choose allinclusive vacations or European plans (A-la-Carte) hotels, where food, drinks and activities are not included in the price. That can be costly, especially if the property you are staying at has gourmet restaurants that can charge $30 just for a meal.

All-Inclusive Vacations - http://allinclusiveresortsinfloridas.blogspot.com/

The vacation and trips are an investment. Some people save money for years just to be able to spend good time and go to a vacation. So why not go somewhere where you can eat, drink, play and have fun and not have to worry about how much you’ll have to spend while your there.

There are All-Inclusive Vacations for every budget, just if you are looking at the right place for hot deals.

All inclusive or Alacarte Resort Vacantion?

All-inclusive or ala-carte?

So many people before travel fall in dilemmas of whether or not to go all-inclusive, or "À la carte" (european plan) when planning their resort or hotel vacation. There are many advantages and disadvantages to staying at an all-inclusive resort. It really just depends on what you are looking to do there. We always recommend that first the tourists ask themselves: “What do I want to do when I get there? Do I want more of a lazy, veg-out sort of vacation and do nothing but lay out on the beach or at the pool, eat, take a nap, lay out some more, eat some more, then call it a night? Or do I want to explore what is outside of the beach resorts property? Go on a shopping excursion, jeep tour, explore the island on a booze cruise, swim with the dolphins or sharks for those that dare, etc? So many questions..!!!

All-Inclusive Vacation Packages mean - everything is included in the price. You pay everything up front. From the airfare, room, meals, drinks, taxes, tips, spa, land activities, water activities, attractions, even include complimentary snorkeling cruises. Some resorts and hotels offer also and ultra all inclusive packages that will help you to save big money.

Ala-Carte or European Plan Vacations - includes the hotel room, taxes, maybe some daily or nightly entertainment, that’s it. You will pay there for all of your breakfast, lunch, diners, meals, buffets, snacks, drinks, cocktails, tips, most land and water sports separately.

So if you like to have everything planned out for you, which may help you to relax better, going all-inclusive would be the best choice for you.

Back to the beach

Central Florida beaches are warming up with summer-like temperatures in mid-spring. With the shuttle program down to its last two shuttle launches—Kennedy Space Center will become the permanent home of the Atlantis space shuttle once it is officially retired—a visit to Florida Space Coast makes an ideal day trip for any Orlando vacation.

Cocoa Beach (pictured) bills itself as Orlando’s closest beach, and it is probably one of the most down-to-earth beaches in the region–in spite of the fact that you can witness shuttle launches from the shore. Orlando residents frequently make the 45 minute trip to Cocoa Beach to enjoy boogie boarding, sunbathing, and the laid-back atmosphere at Cocoa Beach’s public beaches, Shepard Park (right by the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop), Fischer Park and Lori Wilson Park, which are just south of State Road 520 on SR A1A. Lifeguards are on duty at these locations every weekend beginning on Easter weekend until Labor Day weekend.

Help benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation® with your Orlando Vacation

Experience multiple on-site dining options, quality spa and fitness facilities, world class entertainment, shopping and the award winning service for which Gaylord Hotels is widely known. And, you can feel good that 10% of the room package rate during the month of May will be donated to Wounded Warrior Project® for every night of your stay.**

Or, when you book a Rooms for Good package rate in April or June your stay will help benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation®.
To reserve your Rooms for Good package, call:
866-245-1054 or visit
www.GaylordRoomsForGood.com

Summer wedding ideas

The Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek is an ideal location for your Orlando destination wedding, with access to all of the local attractions, the Waldorf Astoria Golf Club, or even a day trip to the beach as part of the honeymoon. The largest ballroom at the Hilton Bonnet Creek convention center covers more than 36,000 square feet, making it an ideal location to accommodate large receptions as well.

As much as you and your guests might enjoy the warm Florida sunshine, summer weddings in Orlando usually require lots of air conditioned comfort. By mid-morning temperatures can get pretty high, so outdoor weddings are best reserved for spring and fall. Brief but heavy afternoon thunderstorms occur on an almost daily basis during the summer months, which is another reason why summer weddings are best kept indoors.

Of course, there will be plenty of outdoor activities available for guests of the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, with an outdoor pool, jogging track, bicycle rental and golf available on or near the resort. The bridal party will also appreciate a visit to the Spa by Guerlain at the neighboring Waldorf Astoria Orlando. And of course, the Orlando attractions are only minutes, giving all of your guests the added incentive to make the effort to attend your wedding.

Orange County National Renovations Reviews

Orange County National will be renovating its highly acclaimed and award winning Panther Lake course this summer. The project will take place in two phases, focusing on nine holes at a time. The main scope of the renovation is the regrassing of all of the greens. In addition, the tee boxes will be leveled and expanded on the par 3 holes, bunkers will be restored and fresh sand added where needed, cart paths will be repaired and damaged and lost trees will be replaced.

The new putting surfaces will be grassed with CHAMPION, an ultra dwarf Bermuda grass. The conversion will allow for a truer ball roll and increased putting speeds, performing similar to bent grass. The project begins in late May with all 18 holes of the course opening in mid September. Crooked Cat, Orange County National's additional award-winning golf course, will remain open during Panther Lake's renovations.

When Panther Lake opens in mid September, golfers will also enjoy new Club Car Precedent golf cars, the premier golf car available today. The new golf cars will be equipped with the state of the art VISAGE GPS yardage and scoring system, offering the latest in player information and assistance.

Anyone considering a Florida golf vacation for fall of 2011 or winter 2012 will be well-advised to have an Orange County National golf package at the top of their list. The new look and feel of Panther Lake will be just one more reason to play what is already one of the most desired golf courses in Florida.

Orange County National's success is no accident. It is the carefully planned, leave-nothing-to-chance efforts of a top-notch management team lead by Bruce Gerlander, the facility's well-respected general manager whose no-nonsense approach to golf course management is known throughout the industry.

'I am so proud of our team and what we have been able to accomplish since Orange County National was completed and opened in 1999. When I first arrived here 12 years ago, the potential for the property was obvious with two excellent designs built on great terrain with fantastic soils,' said Bruce Gerlander, Orange County National General Manager.

'Our goal from the beginning was to offer a golf experience that made it well worth the drive by offering superior course conditioning and a staff committed to exceeding customer expectations, ' said Gerlander.

Customer satisfaction at Orange County National is about as high as it gets in the golf industry. In a 2010 survey of 10,000 customers, the course scored a Net Promoter Score of 99 -- meaning that 99 percent of the respondents would 'definitely' recommend the course to a friend (as opposed to being neutral or would not recommend the course). The company conducting the survey on behalf of Orange County National commented that they had never seen such a high score in any industry, let alone the golf industry.

'Once we have the opportunity to host someone, we know that we have to offer them something special not only for them to return, but for them to go out of their way to tell others how special we are. That philosophy has been the genesis of our mission statement: Create Raving Fans, ' said Gerlander.

Orange County National has garnered some noteworthy awards and has hosted some high profile events during its history. These include:
* No 1 Public Facility in Florida - Golf World Magazine Reader's Poll 2010.
* No 2 Public Facility in the United States - Golf World Magazine Reader's Poll 2009 and 2010.
* 4 1/2 Stars 'Best Places to Play' - Golf Digest, 2000 - 2010
* Buick Scramble National Finals - 1999 - 2004
* 'Top 10 You Can Play' - Golf Magazine, 1998

In addition, Orange County has hosted the PGA TOUR Q-School in 2003, 2005, 2007, 2009 and 2010.
'The 2010 PGA TOUR Q-School hosted at OCN was the most successful one yet as playing conditions were absolutely perfect. Greens were firm and fast, fairways were dense and tight and the rough was thick and lush. Although mother nature threw a variety of temperatures and wind directions at the players, every day offered the chance to go low or shoot above par, said Gerlander.

'The TOUR officials in charge of the event strive for a course set up that will reward excellent play while causing problems for players who are not in control of their games. The medalist was Billy Mayfair who finished at -18 under par over the six rounds while it took a -9 under score to qualify for the last cards awarded. So far this year, the big impact player on TOUR to have graduated from Q-School has been Gary Woodland who already has one win and three top 10's going into Bay Hill. OCN is next slated to hold Q-School in 2013.

Below is a sampling of recent reviews from Orange County National golfers. Don't take our word for it -- listen to golfers just like you who can't wait to return to Orange County National.

'The courses were in phenomenal shape, the service was exceptional and we had a memorable experience. PS: The burger between rounds was unbelievable!!'
Gary G, Ontario

'I have never had the pleasure of playing at such a first class public golf course! I have been to many high end golf resorts that do not even come close to the quality of golf and service that you provide. Keep up the good work and I will spread the good word about you guys!
Pat B, CT

'WOW! What a facility, you have two of the best courses that I have ever played. Great design, conditioning and surroundings, pure golf and some of the friendliest people working there I have ever come across'
Victor O, NY

'Why have I never played here before? I feel like I died and went to Golf heaven! You can be sure that I will return, soon and often'
Robert S, MA

'Our group has taken trips all over the country for the past 20 years and we have never been treated like we were this year. The courses, restaurant, golf shop....everything is first rate. Please reserve our rooms and tee times for next year, we can't wait to return'
Todd J, PA

'No wonder Q-School is held here, the courses are second to none. Difficult , yet fair and a lot of fun to play. Loved the absence of homes or other development on the courses. During our 36 holes the other day, we witnessed alligators, foxes, armadillos, cranes, hawks, bobcats and one of our guys even encountered one of those things that crawl on their bellies! Pure golf in a natural environment with immaculate playing conditions.....well done'
John M, GA

'The most amazing and wonderful day of golf I have ever had, thanks! '
Terry C, NY

'Where do you find your staff? I run a small business and wish I could find people with half of the personality and customer service mindset that your team does. Everything that our group requested was done quickly and with a smile. The young ladies in the restaurant are fantastic, they may have made as much of an impression on our group as the courses did! Will see you again next year.'
Ronald J, IL

'As it was our turn to plan our group's trip this year, my husband and I were concerned how the other couples we brought with us would like OCN. We knew they would love the golf, but since they usually stay at luxury resorts, we were afraid that they might not enjoy the overall experience. Well......we had nothing to be concerned about, they all enjoyed your hospitality so much we are already planning another trip back this fall! Thanks to everyone for making us all feel so welcome, as we were leaving, we all talked about the comfortable atmosphere and friendly staff.'
Mary M, FL

'Thank you for the best trip our group has ever been on. From the moment we arrived to the day we drove out of the parking lot, we all agreed that we never enjoyed three days of golf as much as on this trip. The value we received for the cost of the trip was unbelievable.'
Ricardo B, NY

'Can you guys move up to New Jersey and run some of our public courses? Why? How about great course conditions, service minded staff, great food and beer specials, good looking wait staff and fair pricing.'
Vince C, NJ

'We came here two years ago because we saw you rated by Golf World magazine as the top facility in Florida. You impressed us then, but somehow you have managed to get even better! If you will have us, we will keep returning every year until we can no longer swing a club.'
Jackson W, PA

Kasi and Mtani at Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens’ cheetah cub and his new puppy companion have been receiving plenty of attention recently, and now guests will have a name to put with the face.

At noon today, the park closed a Facebook poll that went live Thursday, offering the public an opportunity to vote for their favorite of four names for each of the animals. This afternoon, the 8 ½-week-old male cheetah cub will officially be named Kasi, which is Swahili for “one with speed.” The 16 ½-week-old female yellow Labrador puppy will be named Mtani, Swahili for “close friend.”

The name Kasi received 44% of the 1,103 votes entered in the cheetah’s poll; Mtani received 51% of the 1,360 votes entered in the puppy’s poll. More than 100 Facebook fans also offered their own suggestions for names, from “Sugar and Spice” to “Will and Kate” in honor of the upcoming Royal wedding.

Guests were able to see the pair for the first time over the weekend during supervised visits in their new playroom at Jambo Junction. Kasi and Mtani will continue to live in Jambo Junction for the next several months. Eventually, they will live together in a large outdoor area near the Cheetah Run habitat and make regular “sidewalk” appearances in the park, helping the park’s education team to teach guests about the plight of cheetahs in the wild and the importance of Busch Gardens’ conservation efforts.

Cheetahs are included on both the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) list of vulnerable species as well as on the US Endangered Species Act list of threatened species. Only approximately 12,400 cheetahs remain in the wild.

Busch Gardens supports the conservation of and education about cheetahs through the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, which has donated nearly $100,000 to cheetah efforts in Africa since 2005 and also helps fund conservation programs for white rhinos, marine animals and many other species around the world.

Easter at Walt Disney World

Celebrating the Easter season while on vacation at Walt Disney World is easier than you think; the resort has had a longstanding tradition of having Easter morning services for guests. This year Easter falls on Sunday, April 24, 2011 and Walt Disney World will be celebrating Easter with religious services at the Contemporary Resort in the Fantasia Ballroom, with Catholic Masses at 8:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. and Protestant services at 9:00 a.m. Parking restrictions apply, so guests should use the monorail Disney shuttle buses to get to the services.

In addition to special Easter brunches and menus at various restaurants throughout the Walt Disney World resort, there will be a Mr. and Mrs. Bunny character greeting at Magic Kingdom, with a special appearance at 2:45 p.m. before the parade on Easter Sunday. Another way to spend Easter Sunday at Disney World is to enjoy the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival (pictured) which is going on now until May 15. The Flower Power concert series is in full bloom, with the Nelsons playing a musical tribute to their father Rick Nelson over Easter weekend.

Mid Florida Bike MS: The Citrus Tour 2011

Join the National MS Society, Mid Florida Chapter for their annual two-day 150 mile Bike MS Citrus Tour. The ride begins May 14 at Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales and travels through Central Florida to the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando. On May 15, the route reverses. Course options include 50, 75 and 100 mile routes. The tour is open to both individual and team participants. Registration is 6 a.m. Ride kicks off at 7 a.m.

May 14-15, 2011 at 7:00 a.m.

Bok Tower Gardens,1151 Tower Blvd.
Lake Wales, FL 33853

$50 a team/$60 for an individual plus fundraising minimum

Visit their website for more information at www.bikems.org

Easter Week Savings at Gaylord Palms Hotel Orlando

Easter Week Savings at Gaylord Palms is a great way to save on your Orlando vacation.
The longer you stay, the more you save!
Plan your Easter week getaway to Gaylord Palms and save when you travel between
Monday, April 18 and Monday, April 25, 2011.

Stay 2 nights get 10% off* prevailing rates.
Stay 3 nights get 15% off* prevailing rates.
Stay 4 nights or more and get April 22 (Good Friday) for FREE!*

Learn about this offer, Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt, Easter Brunch, and more ...

Gaylord hotel reservations

Cheetah Hunt Ready to Launch For the First Time This Weekend

This weekend, Busch Gardens’ Design & Engineering team will officially launch Florida’s first triple-launch coaster for the first time. But, the park warns, guests hoping to catch a glimpse of the testing in progress shouldn’t expect Cheetah Hunt to be up to full speed quite yet.

The process, which kicks off Saturday morning, begins by testing each launch point over and over again at partial power with both empty trains and cars loaded with “water dummies” that simulate the weight of human passengers.

After each launch, the train will be pulled back into position and launched again. Crews will start with the first launch point, which propels the train out of the station house; by weekend’s end, they plan to have moved on to the second launch point. At full power, launch point No. 2 will send trains up the 102-foot Windcatcher Tower. Trains testing at partial power, however, will not make it to the top of the tower.

Early next week, this phase of testing will wrap up with the third launch point – located just past the canyon in the northern end Cheetah Hunt’s footprint. Soon after, trains will start making complete circuits around the track’s 4429-foot run.

But how soon will actual people replace the water dummies? “We will run more than 3,000 cycles of the ride before we put humans on it,” says Mark Rose, Busch Gardens’ Vice President of Design & Engineering. When the time comes, Rose will be one of the first people to ride.

Busch Gardens’ first cub-and-puppy combo

Guests Invited To Help Name Young Cat and Yellow Lab, Who Will Make Their Public Debut on Saturday

Just a month after Busch Gardens took in a cheetah cub whose mother wasn’t caring for it, the park’s animal care team has identified the perfect four-legged friend for the 8-week-old cat: a 16-week old female yellow Labrador puppy.

The two were first introduced over the weekend and have been spending supervised play times together each day. Eventually, the pair will live together and even travel together, helping the park’s education team teaching the public about the plight of cheetahs in the wild and the importance of Busch Gardens’ conservation efforts.

Although this is Busch Gardens’ first cub-and-puppy combo, it is not uncommon in the zoological community for a single cheetah to be raised with a canine companion. “Male cheetahs are social and often live together in coalitions,” said Tim Smith, one of Busch Gardens’ animal curators. “This social bond will be a very similar relationship, and they will be together for life.”

Beginning Saturday, April 16, the cub and puppy will move to Jambo Junction in the Nairobi area of the park, where guests will be able to see them at select times throughout the day. Guests are also invited to help name the pair.The public can “like” the Busch Gardens Facebook page www.facebook.com/buschgardenstampabay and vote for their favorite names. The polls will close at noon on Monday, April 18, and the winners will be announced that afternoon.

Cheetahs are included on both the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) list of vulnerable species as well as on the US Endangered Species Act list of threatened species. Only approximately 12,400 cheetahs remain in the wild.

Busch Gardens supports the conservation of and education about cheetahs through the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, which has donated nearly $100,000 to cheetah efforts in Africa since 2005 and also helps fund conservation programs for white rhinos, marine animals and many other species around the world.

Jazz on the Vineyard Green

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards will be hosting their annual Jazz on the Vineyard Green event on Mother's Day weekend, May 7th & 8th. This two-day outdoor festival will feature live music on the outdoor stage and award-winning Lakeridge Wines. The event will be held Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. A $2.00 donation will be accepted at the gate to benefit the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida and parking is free for all guests.

Complimentary winery tours and wine tasting will be held throughout the festival and the Wine Shop will be offering great specials. There will be food & beverage vendors serving a variety of items for purchase including domestic & imported beers and Lakeridge wines by the glass. Plenty of seating will be available, but guests are welcome to bring their own chairs and blankets.

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards is Florida's largest premium winery and remains a pioneer in the development of table and sparkling wines made from Muscadine and hybrid grapes. Owned and operated by Seavin, Inc., Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards has won more than 500 awards for excellence in winemaking. Complimentary tours and tasting are offered seven days a week at their 30,000 sq. ft. facility in Clermont, FL and they host numerous festivals throughout the year.

If you would like more information, please call 352-394-8627. or visit www.lakeridgewinery.com

Fear the Beard with the Orlando Magic

Do you “fear the beard?” The NBA playoffs are right around the corner, so the Orlando Magic is asking their fans to “Fear the Beard” until the they are in full playoff mode. The Orlando Magic players and Orlando mayor Buddy Dyer have pledged to grow their facial hair until their playoff run is over—hopefully all the way to an NBA title. You don’t have to grow a beard to enjoy a game at Orlando’s Amway Center—the most technologically sophisticated sports arena in North America. There is always something to watch, eat, drink and do at the home of the Orlando Magic. The opening of the Amway Center has led to a revitalization of the Church Street Station area of downtown Orlando, which had been losing visitors over the years to tourist-friendly spots like Downtown Disney and Universal CityWalk. With a brand new sports arena and big name talent like Dwight Howard (known in these parts as “Superman”) the Orlando Magic are fast becoming the team to watch in “The City Beautiful,” which is temporarily being called “The City Beard-is-Full.”

Florida Film Festival April 8 – 17

Film buffs from around the state and around the country are invited to visit the 20th annual Florida Film Festival hosted by the Enzian Theater in Maitland, Florida—just a few miles north of downtown Orlando. This year’s event includes cutting-edge cinema; thought-provoking documentaries, special industry parties and unique food and wine experiences, and it all place over 10 days around Central Florida from April 8 – 17, 2011. The 20th annual Florida Film Festival will include 21 World Premieres, 4 North American Premieres, 7 US Premieres, and the East Coast debut of 39 films. Other in-screen events include a free outdoor screening of a Florida classic, The Yearling, and a brand-new Music Double Feature, plus a 50th anniversary salute to Breakfast at Tiffany’s. In addition to the classic films, there will be plenty of first run shorts, features and documentaries representing 25 countries. This is the once a year opportunity for Florida film buffs to see the works of up and coming and new directors, with Florida as the main focus. For more information, visit the Florida Film Festival website.

Easter Holiday Deals in Orlando

Rosen Shingle Creek The AAA Four Diamond, 1,500-room Rosen Shingle Creek is conveniently located at 9939 Universal Blvd., just off the International Drive tourist district and ten minutes from the Orlando International Airport.

It is the perfect location to have all the fun at Easter time? The latest special offer from Rosen Shingle Creek will have adults clamoring to their rooms and searching high and low for a special Easter treat all their own - a golden egg filled with gift certificates valid for a future two-night stay. Two lucky guests who arrive on Saturday, April 23 will find a golden egg in their guest room upon check-in. Inside the egg is the Easter goody that grown-ups crave the most - a future visit to the award-winning hotel, including:
• A complimentary two-night stay in a deluxe one-bedroom suite
• VIP concierge services and access to the 14th floor lounge
• One $100 food and beverage gift certificate (excludes alcohol, service and tax)
• Two 50-minute spa treatments
• A welcome amenity basket

Certificates have no cash value, are not transferable and must be used on a future visit. All reservations are based on availability.

While only two "hoppy" guests will walk away with the golden egg valid for a future stay at Rosen Shingle Creek, every guest will win big with the hotel's affordable Easter weekend package. Guest rooms are just $129 per night for deluxe accommodations or add $50 to upgrade to a suite (based on availability, taxes not included). The package also includes:
• Afternoon pool party with a live, interactive DJ, fun games and prizes (Saturday, 1-6 p.m.)
• An Easter Egg Hunt with a special visit from the Easter Bunny (Sunday, 10 a.m. outside Cafe Osceola)

During the holiday weekend, guests may also take advantage of special rates at Shingle Creek Golf Club and the Spa at Shingle Creek:
• One-hour golf clinic at the Brad Brewer Golf Academy, followed by nine holes of golf for just $69 plus tax per player, including clubs (Saturday, 1-4 p.m.)
• Two-for-one golf at Shingle Creek Golf Club for just $79.
• Twenty-five percent off any service at the Spa at Shingle Creek (reservations required).

To book the Rosen Shingle Creek Easter package and search for the golden egg, call 407-996-9770 or visit www.rosenshinglecreek.com.

Visit more Rosen hotels in the Orlando area.

• Rosen Inn Pointe Orlando
• Quality Inn International Drive
• Clarion Inn - Downtown Disney
• Rosen Inn Orlando - International Drive

Great American Pie Festival April 9 – 10

Celebrating its tenth year in the town of Celebration, Florida, the Great American Pie Festival will be held at Lakeside Park in Celebration on Saturday, April 9 from 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 10 from 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Sponsored by Crisco, the Great American Pie Festival features a pie contest, games, vendors, kids’ activities and the Never-Ending Pie Buffet.

For the price of a wristband, visitors to the Never-Ending-Pie-Buffet, can choose from slices of pie and other confectioners from Bakers Square Restaurants and Pies, Bonert's Slice of Pie, California Raisin Marketing Board, J. Horner's Desserts, Kroger's Private Selection, Publix Super Markets, Inc., Rocky Mountain Pies, Smucker's Toppings, The Folger Coffee Company, Village Inn and Wick's Pies.

Other festival activities include live entertainment, baking demonstrations, a pie eating contest, and the Crisco Kids Creation Station, where children can prepare their own fruit filled pies. The winners of the National Pie Championship, which is being held at the Caribe Royale resort this weekend, will also be announced at the festival. For more information visit the American Pie Council website.

3 Great family-friendly Easter dining spots in Orlando

There are 3 beautiful hotels located in Universal Studios namely,the Hard Rock Hotel,Loews Portofino Bay Hotel and the Royal Pacific Resort. They are always coming up with great events during special days like Easter. Make time this year and choose one of their Easter spots and exquisite wood carvings.

The Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando offers a tropical paradise setting for Easter Sunday. Their champagne brunch in Islands Dining Room from 11:00 am – 8:00 pm will feature islands music and hula dancers, along with an all-you-can-eat brunch menu of smoked prime rib, roasted leg of lamb, golden tile fish, stuffed chicken breast, omelet and waffle station, seafood raw bar, stir fry and sushi stations and a spring selection of freshly-made desserts. Children can meet the Easter bunny and Universal characters and be entertained by a face painter and balloon artist. Adults: $48.00 ~ Children ages 4 – 12: $23.00 (ages 3 and under complimentary).

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando offers a taste of ‘la dolce vita’ – the sweet life – complete with a strolling musician during their Easter champagne brunch from 11:00 am – 8:00 pm. Trattoria del Porto will be serving an all-you-can-eat menu of smoked New York strip, roasted leg of lamb, roasted pork loin, mahi mahi, seared chicken, omelets and crepes made to order, chilled seafood, risotto and pasta stations, plus cakes, pies, tortes and desserts by the shot glass. Children can meet Universal characters and enjoy a face painter, balloon artist and special children’s activity table. Adults: $49.95 ~ Children ages 4 – 12: $24.00 (ages 3 and under complimentary).

Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando will cue up an Easter brunch with a touch of rock ‘n’ roll attitude in The Kitchen restaurant from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. The hits will include prime rib, maple-glazed ham, omelet station, rotisserie chicken, special kids items and a mouth-watering dessert station. Kids can meet the Easter bunny and visit the restaurant’s “kids only” pancake and cupcake decorating station. Adults: $36.00 ~ Children ages 4 – 12: $16.00 (ages 3 and under complimentary).

For reservations, call 407-503-DINE (3463). Self parking is complimentary for Easter brunch customers who are not overnight hotel guests.

Central Florida Home and Garden Show returns to OCCC

Spring is in full bloom in Orlando, with the eighth annual Central Florida Home and Garden Show at the Orange County Convention Center on Friday, April 15 through Sunday, 17. The event will be held at Hall North B in the Center’s North/South complex off Universal Boulevard at the Orange County Convention Center on International Drive. The Central Florida Home and Garden Show is the region’s longest-running home improvement event, featuring local, regional and national experts in remodeling, building, decorating and landscaping. There will also be instructional how-to seminars, giveaways, hundreds of home and garden exhibits, live entertainment, and celebrity presenters, including Andrew Downward of HGTV’s Divine Design. For more details, or to buy tickets online, visit www.OrlandoHomeShow.com, or call 877-871-SHOW (7469).

The Smithereens are coming to Orlando

The Smithereens will in Orlando at Velvet Sessions on Thursday, April 28, at 6:30 pm
Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando's 2011 lobby concert series continues in April with The Smithereens performing hits "Only A Memory," "A Girl Like You," "Top Of The Pops," "Blood And Roses," "House We Used To Live In" and more.

ALL TICKETS INCLUDE: Specialty drinks and finger foods from 6:30 pm until show time, live music and cash bars from show time onward and valet parking***. After the show, hang out in Velvet Bar, where our DJ plays tunes until 1:00 am!

Tickets: $29 on-line* or $35 at the door. Limited VIP** tickets are $50 on-line* only. Purchase tickets on-line at: VelvetSessions.com

SPECIAL OFFER! Buy tickets on-line and receive early entry at 6:00 pm.

Your chance to meet Jack Hanna at SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld welcomes back celebrity animal expert, Jack Hanna. “Jungle Jack” is recognized world over for his deep knowledge of and boundless enthusiasm for wild animals and wildlife conservation. Jack introduces guests to exotic and endangered animals in his own inimitable way during special shows and exclusive up-close encounters.

Show times will be at 1:15 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. each day in Nautilus Theater. Jack Hanna Weekend at SeaWorld Orlando is in April 29th - May 1st. For more information please call 1-888-800-5447

Skywalk now connects Rosen Centre to Orange County Convention Center

The second largest convention facility in the country expanded its meeting space options last month with the grand opening of the new 316-foot Rosen Centre Skywalk that connects the Rosen Centre with the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) West Building. The Rosen Centre Skywalk allows the hotel's convention guests to more quickly and conveniently utilize the more than 1.1 million square feet of exhibition space, 49 meeting rooms, 141 breakout rooms and other meeting assets in the West Building of the Orange County Convention Center in addition to the hotel's 106,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event space and 33 meeting rooms. Guests will now be able to cross over Convention Way in air conditioned comfort without waiting for a traffic light. With 106,000 square feet of sophisticated meeting space--which includes a 35,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom—the Rosen Centre enables guests to combine business and pleasure, since it is only minutes away from all of te major theme park attractions in and around Orlando. The grand opening of the Rosen Centre Skywalk coincides with the opening of 98Forty Tapas & Tequila Bar, located in the Grande Lobby at Rosen Centre. 98Forty, which represents the hotel's address on 9840 International Drive—the heart of Orlando’s tourism district--offers sophisticated tapas-style dishes and an extensive selection of 40 premium tequilas. The Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) is the second largest convention facility in the United States. Each year, the OCCC brings more than 200 events to the Central Florida area. As a result, roughly 1.4 million attendees contribute approximately $1.9 billion to the area's economic impact annually. For more information about the Orange County Convention Center, visit www.occc.net.

Shingle Creek Masters Golf Tournament

Join ESPN Radio's Mike Tuck & Jerry O'Neill for the "ESPN 1080 The Team Shingle Creek Masters' Golf Tournament" at beautiful Shingle Creek Golf Club located at Rosen Shingle Creek, 9939 Universal BLVD, Orlando FL.

The event is going to be held the Monday after the Majors...at the beautiful Shingle Creek Golf Club in Orlando.Listed as one of the Top 20 Orlando golf courses

Cost is only $79 per person (plus tax). The format is a 2-person scramble. There will be an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start. Cost includes on-course drinks, post-event meal... and opportunities to win great prizes including a 3-day, 2-night stay @ Rosen Shingle Creek... plus the chance to win the "2011 ESPN 1080 The Team / Shingle Creek Masters!!!"

Mike & Jerry will then do their radio show live @ Shingle Creek from 3-6 p.m. Mike & Jerry will be one of the team's to beat...
(yea right!!!!!) Can you beat them?

Space is limited... last year's Masters event was sold out so sign up today!

Monday April 11, 2011 @ Shingle Creek Golf Club
8:30 a.m., 2-person scramble
Phone: 407-996-1559

Discounted LEGOLAND Florida resident annual passes available until May 1

LEGOLAND Florida annual passes are still available for $99, although pricing for the 15-month ticket will increase on May 1. Formerly the site of the Old Florida attraction known as Cypress Gardens, LEGOLAND Florida is a 150-acre, full-day family theme park designed specifically for families with children ages 2 to 12. After it is completed it will be the largest LEGOLAND Park in the world, featuring more than 50 family rides, shows and interactive attractions, restaurants, shopping and beautiful botanical gardens (a remnant of the old Cypress Garden days). Even though LEGOLAND® Florida doesn’t officially open until the fall of 2011, construction is well under way at Central Florida’s newest theme park. LEGOLAND officials recently released aerial footage that shows the size and scope of the 150-acre park, and unveiled a conceptual map outlining the 10 themed zones and reiterated that construction is on target for an October debut.

Hotels Close to the Amway Center

Hotel rooms are selling fast as Ricky Martin will hit the Amway Center stage April 8th in support of his latest album, "Música+Alma+Sexo" (Music+Soul+Sex).

After critical praise for his "MTV Unplugged" and "Ricky Martin Live – Black & White Tour" performance albums, the Grammy-winning superstar returns with his first new studio album in six years! Here is a great hotel nearby so you do not miss this concert Sheraton Orlando Downtown

Orlando has it all Day-long Mustang and Mustang activities

Fantasy of Flight is home to the World’s Greatest Aircraft Collection with over 40 rare and vintage aircraft, many of which have been restored to flyable condition. Fantasy of Flight is located off I4 at Exit 44 mid-way between Orlando and Tampa.

On Saturday April 2, 2011 from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm you can seet the restored P-51 fighters performing aerial demonstrations throughout the day, while show cars will compete for a “People’s Choice” award and the Flying Aces will share stories at 10:30 am and 2:15 pm. Children’s activities and live entertainment included.

Admission to Mustangs & Mustangs is included with Fantasy of Flight general admission, which is $28.95 for adults and $14.95 for youth ages 6-15. Children, five and younger, are free. For tickets or more information, visit www.fantasyofflight.com or call (863) 984-3500.