2013 Miami Rum Festival expands

March 10, 2013 by HotSpotOrlando-AboutUS

The fifth annual Miami Rum Renaissance Festival — the largest gathering of rum experts, professionals and enthusiasts in the world — will span Monday, April 15 to Sunday, April 21, 2013 at the Doubletree by Hilton Miami Airport Convention Center.

Last year, more than 8,000 rum enthusiasts attended the festival with 20,000 square feet of exhibit space. The new space spans 40,000 square feet, twice the size of last year’s event. Festival organizers are preparing for 15,000 attendees.

In addition to a week-long series of VIP parties, tasting sessions and celebrity seminars, the rum festival brings together members of the esteemed International Rum Expert Panel (RumXPs) for their annual tasting competition.

Two full days of Grand Tasting events for the public will take place on Saturday and Sunday, April 20 and 21. More than 240 spirits from the Caribbean and beyond will be available for sampling, along with a selection of island-style cuisine. Continue reading →

De Retour! Viper set for Return to 24 Heures du Mans With SRT Motorsports

March 10, 2013 by HotSpotOrlando-AboutUS

De Retour! Viper set for Return to 24 Heures du Mans With SRT Motorsports

Two factory-supported SRT Viper GTS-Rs will compete in famous 24-hour endurance race in France in June

It’s official: Viper will return this year to the stage of some of its most impressive past road racing performances – the historic 24 Hours of Le Mans in France.

SRT Motorsports today accepted an invitation from the ACO (Automobile Club de l’Ouest) to field two SRT Viper GTS-Rs in the LM GTE Pro class of the 2013 24 Heures du Mans, June 22-23, officially returning the Viper sports car to one of the most prestigious automobile endurance races in the world.

The Viper finished one-two at the 24 Heures du Mans in GTS class competition three consecutive years – 1998 to 2000.

“Racing is truly a part of the illustrious history of Viper and a proving ground for the SRT brand,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO – Street and Racing Technology Brand and Motorsports, Chrysler Group LLC. “Historically the Viper GTS-R has enjoyed great success at Le Mans, so we couldn’t be more excited and proud to accept the challenge to return to France and continue composing the next chapter in the history of Viper racing at such an historic venue.”

Beth Paretta, Director of Marketing and Operations – SRT Brand and Motorsports, and SRT Motorsports driver Marc Goossens were on hand at today’s press conference in Paris to officially accept the invitation.

“The new SRT Viper GTS-R represents a rebirth for us in road racing by bringing an elevated level of technical sophistication to the track,” Paretta said. “The invitation to return to the 24 Heures du Mans gives SRT Motorsports and the SRT Viper GTS-R the opportunity to compete on a stage with the best sports car teams from around the world.”

SRT Motorsports teamed with Riley Technologies, based in Mooresville, N.C., on the design-and-build process of the SRT Viper GTS-R. Two identically prepared cars returned to competition last year at Mid-Ohio, the first of four test-and-tune races in preparation for a full 2013 schedule in the GT class in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) presented by Tequila Patron.

In addition to Goossens, drivers returning to the SRT Motorsports lineup for 2013 will be Tommy Kendall, Kuno Wittmer, Dominik Farnbacher and Jonathan Bomarito. Additional team announcements will be revealed at a later date.

The Viper’s successful racing heritage began in 1996 with its first racing entry, the original GTS-R, which earned five international GT championships and the 1997 to 1999 FIA GT championships in addition to the three consecutive one-two finishes at the 24 Heures du Mans in the GTS class.

The Viper posted an amazing overall win at the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona in 2000 – the first for a production-based American car. Viper also captured GTS class and driver’s championships in ALMS competition in 1999 along with the series’ class, manufacturer’s and driver’s championship in 2000 before retiring from the series.

About SRT and SRT Motorsports
The Chrysler Group’s SRT (Street and Racing Technology) brand uses a successful product development formula featuring five proven hallmarks: awe-inspiring powertrains; outstanding ride, handling and capability; benchmark braking; aggressive and functional exteriors and race-inspired and high-performance interiors to remain true to its performance roots.

The SRT lineup in the 2013 model year features five vehicles that are world-class performance contenders and bring the latest in safety technologies and creature comforts. The Chrysler 300 SRT8, Dodge Challenger SRT8 392, Dodge Charger SRT8 and Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 are joined by the SRT flagship Viper and Viper GTS models, which are making their highly anticipated return to the high-performance sports car market.

The engineering expertise within SRT extends well beyond its high-performance street vehicles. Technical support for the Chrysler Group’s various racing programs is provided by the astute engineers at SRT Motorsports, where lessons learned on the race track directly translate to improved vehicles for the company’s customers.

Twitter: www.twitter.com/drivesrt and www.twitter.com/chrysler
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/drivesrt or YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/pentastarvideo

SOURCE Chrysler Group LLC

Game Preview: Solar Bears at Trenton Titans Today Orlando Continues Six-Game Road Trip

March 10, 2013 by HotSpotOrlando-AboutUS

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Game Preview: Solar Bears at Trenton Titans Today

Orlando Continues Six-Game Road Trip

Who: Orlando (26-29-3-3, 58pts) vs.
Trenton Titans (Philadelphia Flyers) (25-29-4-4, 58pts)
Where: Sun National Bank Center – Trenton, NJ
When: 3:05 p.m.
Listen Live: iHeartSolarBears.com, 740thegame.com, iheart.com/live/601/ - Pregame starts at 2:50 p.m.
Watch Live: America One
Follow: Game Updates on Twitter at @OSBHockeyGU
Social Media: Follow on Facebook and Twitter
Game Notes: Click here to download tonight’s game notes and rosters

Matchup:

The Solar Bears continue their six-game road trip this afternoon as they face off for a Sunday matinee against the Trenton Titans. Orlando showed strong resolve in yesterday’s tilt with the Elmira Jackals, as they came back from deficits of 2-0, 3-1, 4-3, and 5-4 to earn a point in an eventual 6-5 overtime loss to Elmira. The Titans Orlando vs. Trenton had the luxury of being off last night, and last took the ice against the Wheeling Nailers on Friday. The Nailers built up a 2-0 lead going into the third period, but Trenton erased the lead with two goals in the first 4:21 of the period to tie the game at 2-2. Wheeling came right back with three unanswered goals, including two in 23 that came just 23 seconds apart, to collect the 5-2 victory. The Solar Bears and Titans last came together on an historic night for Orlando, when the 2000-01 Turner Cup Championship Banner was unveiled in the rafters of the Amway Center. In that contest, the Solar Bears jumped out to an early 1-0 lead and eventually took down Trenton 6-4. This is the third meeting between the two clubs, with Orlando going 1-1-0-0 against the Titans this year.

Solar Bears Notes:

C Dale Mahovsky, who was activated from the 21-day IR earlier this week, notched three points last night on two goals and one assist. It was his first three point night with Orlando… C Ryan Cruthers played in his 299th ECHL game yesterday, and is expected to play in his 300th game tonight… F Justin Levac picked up two assists yesterday for his first multiple point game for the Solar Bears… F Ryan Berard made his Solar Bears debut yesterday… D Michael Wilson is sixth among defensemen with 32 points (4 goals, 28 assists)… Orlando is 15-1-1 when scoring the game’s first goal… F Michael Lysyj and D Michael Jordan made their Solar Bears debuts on Friday. Jordan played in both preseason games for the Solar Bears in early October… F Chris Lawrence was not dressed yesterday or Friday and is not expected to play today… C Mathew Sisca was placed on the 21-day IR earlier this week… D Jesse Dudas was placed on the 21-day IR last week… G Mike Brodeur, D Josh Caron, F Dan Dries, and D Sean Lorenz remain on the 21-day IR.

Titans Notes:

F Jacob Cepis is 17th in the ECHL with 54 points on 18 goals and 36 assists… F Stephen Schultz leads the league with 17 power play goals… G Scott Wedgewood is second among goaltenders with 1,194 saves and is third with 2,501 minutes played… F Marcel Noebles is 17th among ECHL rookies with 30 points (11 goals, 19 assists)… D Blake Kessel is 16th among defensemen with 29 points (8 goals 21 assists)… Trenton is 5th on the power play at 21.2 percent (62-for-293) and 3rd on the penalty kill at 85.2 percent (213-for-250)… F Jacob Cepis leads the Titans in assists (36) and points (54), F Andy Bohmbach leads the team in goals (21).

Upcoming Promotions:

March 20:
March 24:

St. Patrick’s Day Special Jersey
Fan Appreciation Game

For more information call the Solar Bears Executive Offices at 407-951-8200.

Get Tickets:
Orlando plays their next six games on the road before returning home to face the Greenville Road Warriors on Wednesday, March 20, and Thursday, March 21, at 7:00 p.m. They then face the Cincinnati Cyclones on Sunday, March 24, at 3:00 p.m. Good seats still available, visit www.OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.com.

The Orlando Solar Bears, the ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Minnesota Wild and AHL’s Houston Aeros, play all of their home games at the 2012 Street and Smith’s Sports Business Journal Sports Facility of the Year, the Amway Center.

Individual tickets for all regular season home games are on sale beginning as low as $15. To purchase your tickets, please visit www.OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.com or the Amway Center Box Office.

Follow the Solar Bears at www.OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.com, Facebook, and Twitter (@OrlandoHockey) for all the latest news and updates.

Don’t get shut-out when we sell out! Take advantage of the Orlando Solar Bears season ticket pre-sale offer by placing a $50 deposit per ticket now to receive seat selection priority for the 2013-14 season. Call the Solar Bears at407-951-8200 or visit www.OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.com.

Group tickets are a great way to entertain employees, co-workers, clients, friends and family. For more information on discounted group tickets and a list of group benefits, call 407-951-8200 or click here.

Officially licensed Orlando Solar Bears replica team jerseys, apparel, and headwear can be purchased online at: http://shop.orlandosolarbearshockey.com/

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HOME: www.OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.com
Facebook: Orlando Solar Bears
Tweet: OrlandoHockey
OSB Hockey YouTube Channel: Orlando Solar Bears

SOLAR BEARS BATTLE BACK FROM MULTIPLE DEFICITS TO EARN POINT IN 6-5 OT LOSS TO JACKALS

March 10, 2013 by HotSpotOrlando-AboutUS

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SOLAR BEARS BATTLE BACK FROM MULTIPLE DEFICITS TO EARN POINT IN 6-5 OT LOSS TO JACKALS
Solar Bears Take on Trenton Sunday Afternoon

Elmira, NY - Dale Mahovsky notched three points as the Solar Bears fought back from multiple deficits to earn a point in a 6-5 overtime loss to the Elmira Jackals at First Arena on Saturday night.

Two early penalties on Orlando in the first period led to 1:07 of 5-on-3 time for the Jackals, but the Solar Bears were able to kill off the two-man advantage to maintain a 0-0 score. The Jackals were able to strike first regardless, when D Jordan Continue reading →

Pastry Smart Announces Two New Organic, Humane Brands: Le Culture, A Handcrafted Bread Collection, and Mission Blue Confections

March 10, 2013 by HotSpotOrlando-AboutUS

Pastry Smart LLC, announced today at Natural Products Expo West the launch of two new brands, Le Culture and Mission Blue Confections. Produced by Pastry Smart, the first bread, pastry and confectionary producer to be American Humane Certified, Le Culture and Mission Blue Confections use all natural, organic, and local ingredients.

“In most grocery stores, you walk down the produce aisle and there are many options for organic and local products. In the bakery aisle, however, customers rarely see such options. Crackers, cookies and bread almost always contain a laundry list of ingredients that are difficult to pronounce,” said Mark Ainsworth, president and founder of Pastry Smart. ”You look at our labels and there’s less than nine ingredients. We offer best in class products, buying the best ingredients on the planet.”

Le Culture–A Certified Organic Solution for Retail Bakeries Continue reading →

Premium Edge, Diamond Naturals and 4health Dry Cat Food Formulas Voluntarily Recalled Due to Possibility of Low Levels of Thiamine (Vitamin B1)

March 10, 2013 by HotSpotOrlando-AboutUS

Diamond Pet Foods is voluntarily recalling limited production codes of Premium Edge Finicky Adult Cat Formula dry cat food, Premium Edge Senior Cat Hairball Management Formula dry cat food, Premium Edge Kitten Formula dry cat food, Diamond Naturals Kitten Formula dry cat food and 4health All Life Stages Cat Formula dry cat food. Tests conducted by the company indicated the products might have a low level of thiamine (Vitamin B1). There have been no complaints regarding thiamine levels, or any other health issues, related to these products. In association with this voluntary recall, Diamond Pet Foods has tested all other Diamond brands for thiamine deficiency to ensure the safety of the cat food it manufactures. No other product manufactured by Diamond Pet Foods is involved in this voluntary recall. Continue reading →

Match Recap: Orlando City Completes Comeback Against Tampa Bay

March 10, 2013 by HotSpotOrlando-AboutUS

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Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City 0 3 3

Tampa Bay Rowdies 1 1 2

Scoring Summary:

(TB)-Amani Walker- 17^th

(ORL)-Jamie Watson- 49^th

(ORL)-James O’Connor-58^th

(ORL)-Jean Alexandre-70^th

(TB)-Luke Mulholland-75^th

Lineups:

Orlando City- Miguel Gallardo, Bryan Burke, Luke Boden, Oumar Diakhite, Rob Valentino, Adama Mbengue (Jonathan Mendoza-79^th), Freddie Braun, James O’Connor, Jamie Watson, Jean Alexandre, Long Tan

Tampa Bay- Andrew Fontein, Takuya Yamada, Dan Scott (Georgi Hristov-56^th), Jay Needham, Andres Arango (Jordan Gafa-79^th), Raphael Cox, Stuart Campbell, Shane Hill, Luke Mulholland, Amani Walker, Evans Frimpong

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 7:30 p.m.

Weather: Clear

Attendance: 6,877

Orlando City Completes Comeback Against Tampa Bay

Down 1-0 at half, Lions scored three unanswered to take home the win

Orlando, Fla.— Despite being down a goal at halftime, Orlando City rallied back to beat the Tampa Bay Rowdies 3-2 in the first leg of the I-4 Derby sponsored by United World Soccer at the Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl Saturday night. The Lions scored in the 49^th, 58^th and 70^th minutes and withstood a late score by the Rowdies to complete the comeback victory.

“Our response in the second half was positive, we moved the ball quickly and opened them up,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “The game could’ve been out of sight with the amount of chances we had, but certainly glad of the 3-2 result after being down 1-nil at halftime.“

Orlando put the pressure on the Tampa Bay side early and often, creating chances for the Lions in the first half. Midfielder Jamie Watson was on the end of a few scoring chances in the first 10 minutes, having two shots on goal with one skipping inches left of the post for the Lions.

Tampa got on the board first, however, with a bad giveaway from the Orlando City backline leading to the score. Tampa Bay Forward Amani Walker took advantage of the poor passing by the City backline, slotting home the goal to give the Rowdies a 1-0 lead in the 17^th minute.

City continued to pressure throughout the rest of the first half, with the Lions holding a 12 -2 advantage in shots as the halftime whistle blew with the Rowdies still ahead by one.

Orlando got on the board immediately starting the second half, with Watson converting a corner kick to even the score line at 1-1. New signee Freddie Braun attempted the corner leading to the score, with the midfielder slotting home the goal.

The Lions offensive continued, with another goal coming in the 58^th minute for Orlando. After Forward Long Tan’s strike was deflected back in the middle of the pitch by Tampa Goalkeeper Andrew Fontein, Midfielder James O’Connor half-volleyed the deflection into the lower left-hand corner to give Orlando the 2-1 advantage. Forward Jean Alexandre also got on the scoreboard in the second half, with the striker chipping his breakaway opportunity up and over Fontein for the score and 3-1 lead.

Tampa Bay wasn’t done, with 2011 USL PRO Rookie of the Year Luke Mulholland converting on a free kick in the 75^th to put the Rowdies back in contention. The consistent Orlando attack was too much as the game wore on, with the match ending in a 3-2 victory for the Lions.

The Lions continue the 2013 preseason in a series of collegiate friendlies, starting with University of Stetson this Wednesday, March 13, at the Seminole Soccer Complex in Sanford, Fla. Orlando will also meet Florida Gulf Coast, Rollins College and the University of Tampa before the Lions square off against the Rowdies in the second leg of the I-4 Derby presented by United World Soccer in St. Petersburg, Fla., at Al Lang Stadium on March 30.

For all game information and times of matches, 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.