Canadian indie band Men I Trust hits the stage at Hard Rock Live Orlando, for the first time ever on Friday, June 16. The band, composed of Jessy, Dragos and Emma, announced the Florida tour on it's socials "Dear Florida, it’s always hard routing-wise to include a proper run in your state within a tour setup. To better serve you, we added a Florida run to our calendar in June. You guys are an insanely fun crowd and we’re looking forward to playing in your state!" Tckets go on sale tomorrow, Thursday, February 16 at 12pm, get the details here. The band are playing three show in Florida, Ft Lauderdale, St Pete, and here in Orlando.

Hundreds of Walt Disney World cast members raised more than $9.3K for local pets in need during this year’s Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, Paws in the Park fundraiser event, earning first place as the e. Taking place each year in Lake Eola Park, the community event organised by the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando raises thousands of dollars for local pets in need. Led by “pack leader” and Disney cast member Stephanie Arnett, the “Disney Dogs Pack” earned the award for top fundraising team, the 14th year out of the last 16 years. “Disney is such an integral part of the Central Florida community, and our participation in events like this shows that we care about creating magic beyond our park gates, helping our neighbors and their furry friends too,” said Stephanie. As the owner of a rescue dog, Stephanie is one of many cast members who has a personal passion for helping the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando in its mission to find permanent homes for thousands of homeless animals, offer low-cost veterinary care and manage animal intake at its shelters. “I love participating in and getting cast involved with this event and the Disney VoluntEARSprogram,” said Stephanie. “Not only does it provide cast with a great way to connect with each other, but it’s also nice to be able to connect with members in our community and make a difference in their lives.” EPCOT cast member Elise couldn’t agree more – she brought together some of the Food & Beverage team from the Norway Pavilion and joined the Pack so they could bond as a team and spend time outside of our parks and in the local community. “My team was looking for Disney VoluntEARS opportunities to participate in together, and when we found Paws in the Park, we knew it would be a great way to introduce our Cultural Representatives from Norway to Orlando,” Elise said. “This event was a hit with our team and really warmed our hearts. In fact, we are already looking at more events to participate in soon.” With the Disney VoluntEARS hours earned at this event, some cast members – like Stephanie – officially reached 50 hours of giving back during the 50th Anniversary celebration, joining more than 1,400 other cast members in completing the 50 for 50 Disney VoluntEARS Challenge. As part of this special challenge, cast have dedicated more than 233,000 hours to volunteer efforts with nonprofit organizations across Central Florida since Oct. 1, 2021 – talk about a major impact! Taking this impact one step further, cast can turn their earned volunteer hours into charitable contributions through our Disney VoluntEARS Grants program. Through this awesome program, the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando is the third-top recipient of Disney VoluntEARS Grants submitted by cast. “The Disney VoluntEARS Program keeps us connected to our community and helps our neighbors in an impactful way,” said Chirag, one of the top fundraisers in the Disney Dogs Pack. “I take great pride in being part of a company that does this so often, and events like Paws in the Park makes being a cast member extremely fulfilling.”

The Sunshine Flyer offers a fun transportation option that quickly and safely transports you by luxury themed motor coach between Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World Resort. Right now the transportation company is celebrating its first year of operations with a limited time offer of $12 tickets! This limited time, spring travel promotion is available for all guests across all age ranges, who are travelling now through May 31. The Sunshine Flyer's buses are late model, premium motorcoaches with themes that center around old-fashioned passenger cars and train engines. From the bus designs to staff dressed as 1920s rail conductors and engineers, the motorcoaches effectively serve as time-machines, offering a glimpse into 1920s rail travel. We see them out and about all the time, and it's fun spotting them on the road as no two vehicle designs are the same! Convenient and cost-effective, the Sunshine Flyer offers an engaging transportation experience that allows guests to start the magic of their Walt Disney World vacation from the moment they step off the plane. Now, a family of four will save 24% by riding on the Sunshine Flyer this Spring which is well-equipped for kids, including: Three-point harness seat belts at each seat Conductor hats for kids Stickers Coloring/activity books On-board video entertainment "We are grateful to our guests who trusted us as their transportation partner during our first year in service," said Vice President of the Sunshine Flyer Tony Glibkowski. "To celebrate Spring vacations, we are offering $12 tickets when you travel through May 31st!" As part of its partnership, all Make-A-Wish children and families receive complimentary service from the Sunshine Flyer for Disney wishes indefinitely. For more information about the Sunshine Flyer and to book tickets, visit www.sunshineflyer.com.

Leading alternative milk brand, MALK Organics, have announced today that they have secured distribution in all 1,300+ Publix stores throughout the Southeast including here in Orlando. If milk's not for you then plant based MALK's Unsweetened Almond, Vanilla Almond, and Oat Original products are now on shelf in the refrigerated section at your local Publix stores in Central Florida. MALK products contain no gums, fillers, or oils and are made with only a few simple and familiar ingredients. "As the leading organic and fastest growing plant-based milk with national distribution, this Publix distribution marks another huge milestone in MALK's continued growth," said MALK's CEO, Jason Bronstad. "This exciting expansion furthers our mission to provide consumers with the cleanest plant-based milk across America." Founded in 2015, MALK Organics prides itself on leading the charge for cleaner products in the plant-based milk category and beyond. Unlike the majority of their competitors, MALK products contain only 3-5 simple ingredients with no glyphosates, gums, fillers, or oils. MALK's products include Unsweetened Almond, Vanilla Almond, Original Oat, Vanilla Oat, and Chocolate Oat.

Old time garage-themed burger restaurant Sickies Garage Burgers and Brews who have a restaurant on the 192 in Kissimmee at 7640 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, are planning a second Central Florida location in the heart of I-Drive here in Orlando. The North Dakota grown chain that offers a wild variety of freshly made extreme burger creations and craft beer pairings, have chosen a location at the south end of I-Drive at 11701 International Drive. No timeline is known for the new restaurant, but for now a quick drive to Kissimmee will help keep your cravings for a Sickies burger in check! Founded during 2012 in Fargo, ND, Sickies Garage Burgers and Brews has expanded to 9 locations across North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Nevada, and Florida. The hallmark of Sickies Garage Burgers and Brews restaurant is a mouthwatering, supercharged burger and sandwich menu. Freshly prepared choices range from the traditional Garage Burger to wild, award-winning signature items like the Sickies Burger, Turbocharged Twin Cam, and Glazed Doughnut burgers. Patty choices offered include half-pound ground beef, chicken, or veggie patty for endless combinations. Every Sickies Garage Burgers and Brews restaurant offers evolving and rotating selections of 50 local craft, domestic, and import brews with something to please every beer drinker. Beer aficionados, or those who like to keep it simple are sure to find the right brew. Find our live updating tap list for each restaurant location. Additional choices include creamy malts and milkshakes, fresh salads, loaded mashed potato bowls, hearty homestyle dinners, and award-winning chicken wings.

International Drive's ICON Park have announced a limited time deal for rides on the entertainment district's iconic attraction, The Wheel. The giant observation wheel at the center of I-Drive has only just reopened following essential repairs and maintenance that had kept the ride closed for several weeks, and to celebrate ICON Park is offering one spin in a private capsule on The Wheel, plus a ride on the Carousel for only $20.23 per person. This is a saving of $17.76 over the full price of $37.99. ICON Park is a 20-acre, open-air, gate-free entertainment destination with plenty of fun adventures for the whole family. The perfect place to ride, dine, drink, and explore. Located in the heart of the Orlando Entertainment District, ICON Park offers more than 50 amazing restaurants, funky bars, boutique shops, and can’t-miss attractions, all anchored by The Wheel, a jaw-dropping observation wheel that stands 400 feet – 40 stories – in the air. Visit other attractions including SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, Madame Tussauds Orlando and Museum of Illusions Orlando. ICON Park also offers a diverse mix of restaurants for lunch, dinner and late-night bites that satisfy a wide variety of flavors and cuisine. Enjoy free parking and park admission. Learn more at ICONParkOrlando.com.

Orlando’s largest theme park food festival has been up and running at SeaWorld Orlando since February 3, and runs all the way through until May 7. This year's Seven Seas Food Festival features more than 200 food and drink offerings inspired by cultures from around the world at international marketplaces scattered throughout the park. Check out guide to this year's festival here! SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival is not just about delicious eats and refreshing sips from around the world. The festival also features an incredible concert series guests will not want to miss. Concerts take place every Saturday and Sunday during the festival at Bayside Stadium, and feature a taste of Rock, Country, Latin, Hip Hop, R&B and 90s throwbacks – all included with park admission SeaWorld Orlando had already announced the first wave of artists for the shows that started in early February, and now the park has announced the second wave of big names including Tenille Townes, Sean Kingston, Hanson, Chris Lane, The Commodores, and many more. Read on for all the concerts happening for the remainder of February, through until the end of April. LIVE Entertainment Live concerts are held every weekend during the festival at the open-air Bayside Stadium. February 18: Collective Soul (Rock) February 19: Jerry Rivera (Latin) February 25: Don McLean (Rock) February 26: Ludacris (Hip Hop) March 4: Joey Fatone & Friends (Pop) March 5: Tenille Townes March 12: Sean Kingston March 19: Hanson March 26: Eli Young Band (Country) April 8: Cory Asbury April 15: Chris Lane April 16: The Marshall Tucker Band April 22: Tito Nieves April 23: Kameron Marlowe April 29: The Commodores

The Orlando Pottery Festival & Spring Arts Market, Central Florida’s largest winter celebration and market of ceramic art returns to Orlando this May. Featuring unique handmade items perfect for the home, garden, and gift giving. the event takes place on Saturday, April 29, 2023, from 9 am to 5 pm, at the Florida Army National Guard Armory, 2809 South Ferncreek Ave., Orlando. Meet 50+ talented local artists, including highly regarded professional potters who exhibit in galleries and juried art festivals throughout the South; mid-career artists whose distinctive designs and signature items are fast becoming contemporary collectibles; longtime “hobby potters” who are channeling their creativity while mastering their craft in local pottery studios; and younger and emerging ceramic artists, some of whom are selling to the public for the first time. Shop the diverse range of these artists’ original functional and decorative work, such as handmade everyday dishware, elegant ceramic jewelry, sculptural and figurative work inspired by Florida’s flora and fauna, whimsical and practical home and garden decor, and much more—all created on the pottery wheel or using hand-built and slip-cast techniques. Returning visitors know that the Orlando Pottery Festival’s twice-annual events—typically held during the winter holiday season and mid-spring—are the best way to get “first dibs” on recent work from favorite local potters, and to meet the new artist vendors added to each festival. The Orlando Pottery Festival’s growth and diversity of artistic work makes for events that reflect the vibrancy and diversity of handmade ceramics The Orlando Pottery Festival & Spring Arts Market is a family-friendly event for all ages; free admission, free parking. For more information about the Orlando Pottery Festival, please visit www.orlandopotteryfestival.org.

Rumours are swirling deep in the jungle of Isla Nublar that a big change is coming to Jurassic World VelociCoaster at Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure. The whispers from Team Members is that the popular coaster will start accepting Universal Express Pass as early as the ed of this month. It appears the reason for the decision (if true) is because the initial popularity of the ride when it first opened back in June 2021 is finally claiming down, well just a little! Currently the coaster offers only standby and single rider queues, so the addition of Universal Express Pass could be a great option if you don't want to wait in line. Purchasing Universal Express Pass will set you back $89.99 and allows you to skip the standby line once per day, per attraction.

It's getting hotter this weekend, and we're not only talking about the weather, as the second annual Central Florida Chili Cookoff is happening this Saturday, February 18, 2023, between 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm. The Central Florida Chili Cookoff is a fundraiser to support local students and teachers while sampling 60+ chilis provided by local restaurants and chefs of all varieties. Enjoy a bite from the food trucks and dessert vendors while enjoying live music, adult and family-friendly refreshments as well as a Kids Zone play area, and you can even take part in theblind draw doubles cornhole tournament! The chili fest is taking place at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center on North Lakeshore Drive in Ocoee. Event access provides chili samples, music and kid's zone entertainment and 1 (one) entry into the blind draw doubles cornhole tournament with access to food trucks and adult and family beverages for an additional fee. General Admission to the Central Florida Chili Cookoff is $15 for adults, and $5 for kids (6-12 y/o), with under 6 year olds free. Get your tickets now! The event is sponsored by Legacy Events for Education, whose mission is to provide scholarships and grants in the areas of arts, academics and athletics to reward exemplary efforts of students and teachers both on campus and in the community. Schools the assist include: West Orange, Windermere, Horizon and Ocoee.

John Mellencamp's latest U.S. tour “Live and In Person 2023” kicked off February 5 in Bloomington, Indiana,, now as he works his way through Florida, the Hurts So Good singer will perform on both Saturday, February 18, and Sunday, February 19 at Dr Phillips Center in downtown Orlando. The tour will see 76 shows total, concluding with two nights in South Bend, Indiana on June 23 and 24. The tour includes multiple nights in New York City, Chicago, Vancouver, Nashville, Clearwater, Minneapolis and more, as well as stops in TCM’s home of Atlanta, Los Angeles and other major cities across the U.S. Tickets for the "John Mellencamp Live and In Person 2023" tour are still on sale, grab them now before its too late! John Mellencamp rose to fame in the 1980s while honing an almost startlingly plainspoken writing style that, starting in 1982, yielded a string of Top 10 singles, including "Hurts So Good", "Jack & Diane", "Crumblin' Down", "Pink Houses", "Lonely Ol' Night", "Small Town", "R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A.", "Paper in Fire", and "Cherry Bomb". He has amassed 22 Top 40 hits in the United States. In addition, he holds the record for the most tracks by a solo artist to hit number one on the Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart, with seven. Mellencamp has been nominated for 13 Grammy Awards, winning one. His latest album of original songs, Strictly a One-Eyed Jack, was released on January 21, 2022. Mellencamp has sold over 30 million albums in the US and over 60 million worldwide.

The Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP) has successfully released an unprecedented twelve manatees back to their natural habitat in a single day. The animals were released earlier on Monday, February 13 at Blue Spring State Park in Orange City, a vital warm-water habitat for manatees and one of the largest winter gathering sites for this species in Florida, following their successful rehabilitation. Many of these manatees were rescued as orphaned calves during the ongoing unusual mortality event (UME), which to-date, has left thousands of animals malnourished and starving. Under the expert care of dedicated MRP partners, these manatees spent the past several years rehabilitating at various facilities. “Over the past several years, we have been called upon to rescue an alarmingly high number of injured, sick and starving manatees off the Florida coastline,” said Monica Ross, Chairman of the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership and Director of Manatee Research and Conservation for Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute. “Through the efforts of the MRP partners, I am thrilled that we were able to return the highest number of manatees to their natural environment in a single day.” The 12 animals were successfully cared for and rehabilitated by various MRP partner organizations. The manatees are: Asha: An orphan calf rescued in early 2021, who completed her rehabilitation at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. Scampi: A small calf who was rescued in 2019 and completed her rehabilitation at Miami Seaquarium, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Seas with Nemo & Friends at EPCOT (Walt Disney World Resort). Ferret: An orphan calf who was rescued in early 2021 and rehabilitated by Miami Seaquarium. Finch: An orphan calf rescued in early 2021, who completed his rehabilitation at Miami Seaquarium. Artemis: A very small, 51-pound orphan calf rescued in summer 2020. She completed her rehabilitation at SeaWorld Orlando. Bianca: A calf of an injured mother, rescued in spring 2021. She was rehabilitated by SeaWorld Orlando. Inigo: A nine-foot adult male rescued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) in 2021 due to UME-related causes. He completed his rehabilitation at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. After suffering a boat strike soon after his release in August 2022, he was rescued a second time and completed his rehabilitation at both Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and SeaWorld Orlando. Lilpeep: An orphan calf rescued in the spring of 2021 and transported to SeaWorld Orlando for rehabilitation, then to Aquarium Encounters for continued rehabilitation. He was returned to SeaWorld Orlando for pre-release preparation. Maximoff: An orphan calf rescued in early 2021 and rehabilitated by SeaWorld Orlando. Alby: A small, 51-pound orphan rescued in 2019. He was rehabilitated by SeaWorld Orlando, before being transported to Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden for longer term rehabilitation. He was returned to SeaWorld Orlando for pre-release preparation. Manhattan: An orphan rescued in fall of 2019, initially rehabilitated by SeaWorld Orlando before being transported to Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden for full rehabilitation. He was returned to SeaWorld Orlando for pre-release preparation. Swimshady: An orphan rescued in late 2020. He was brought to SeaWorld Orlando for rehabilitation before being transported to Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden for continued rehabilitation. He was then returned to SeaWorld Orlando for pre-release preparation. “Today we want to recognize the outstanding dedication and efforts made by the stranding network partners and the MRP organizations who worked together to rescue and rehabilitate these 12 manatees,” said Andy Garrett, Manatee Rescue Coordinator from the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission. “We are excited that those who safely rescued, transported and cared for these manatees are here now as we return them into Blue Spring to start the final phase of their recovery.” All animals will wear GPS tracking devices to allow researchers the ability to monitor manatee movement and ensure their acclimation to their natural habitat for the next year. The data collected through routine behavior monitoring is critical to understanding how orphan manatees adapt to the natural habitat and find warm water for winter survival without the skills they should have learned from their mothers. Monitoring will also be critical to the continued understanding of how manatees are adjusting to the fluctuating habitat conditions they need for survival and enable animal care specialists to ensure young animals are learning migration routes and to better treat animals suffering from malnutrition or starvation due to the UME. About the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP) The Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP) is a group of non-profit, private, state, and federal entities dedicated to advancing manatee conservation through collaborative partnership. MRP partners participate in the rescue, rehabilitation, release, and post-release monitoring of manatees. This network of institutions includes acute care facilities that provide treatment to orphaned, sick, and injured manatees with the hope of one day returning them to the wild. MRP researchers collect invaluable data through manatee monitoring efforts to improve the understanding of manatee biology and health. By partnering cooperatively, MRP members work to promote stewardship and financial support of manatee conservation efforts through public education. For more information, visit us at manateerescue.org. Save the Manatee Club is the fiduciary sponsor of the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation (MRP) Partnership. To donate to the MRP, visit the Donate page of the MRP website.