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Muppet*Vision 3D officially opened at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on this day back in 1991. This 3D attraction features favorite Muppet characters – and the world’s first computer-generated Muppet, Waldo C. Graphic – in hilarious musical numbers. (And who can forget that glorious three hour finale?). What do you love about this attraction? Tell us in the “Comments” section below. Today in Disney History: Muppet*Vision 3D Opened Its Doors at Disney’s Hollywood Studios by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

TV actor Dustin Diamond was convicted Friday of two misdemeanors stemming from a barroom fight, but a Wisconsin jury cleared the former "Saved by the Bell" actor of the most serious felony charge. View the full article

Scott Skiles has lost a few steps and most of his hair at 51. His former teammate, Nick Anderson, joked that Skiles was never "the most athletic guy anyway," having made a name for himself as a point guard with the Orlando Magic on grit and wit. View the full article

As you may know, there was a little switch-up in Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland a few months ago: Aloha Isle (home of the Dole Whip) and Sunshine Tree Terrace (Citrus Swirl haven) changed places to accommodate construction — it is widely believed — for an upcoming Jungle Cruise-themed restaurant. New Sunshine Tree Terrace location On the day the “new” locations opened, however, there was one obvious thing missing: the Orange Bird could not be found at Sunshine Tree Terrace (to learn a little more about the Orange Bird’s long Adventureland history, check out the video in this post!). Disney assured fans, thankfully, of his impending return, and it seems it has now come to pass. The original Orange Bird figurine returned today — Friday, May 29th — to Sunshine Tree Terrace (and he is going to be honored on the location’s sign as well). Welcome back, Orange Bird! To celebrate his homecoming, the Disney Parks online store is selling a LIMITED RUN t-shirt and poster featuring our little orange pal! Through June 4 only, this Orange Bird T-shirt will be available in an Adult and Youth size: ©Disney A print featuring the same design is up for grabs, and so is an Art on Demand canvas wrap. ©Disney Just a few ways to say, “Welcome Back” once more to the little Orange Bird! Have a great day, and remember to “Think Orange Thoughts!” Are you glad the Orange Bird has returned to Sunshine Tree Terrace? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Snack Series: Orange Bird Souvenir Cup at Sunshine Tree Terrace News! Aloha Isle and Sunshine Tree Terrace Switch Places in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom New! Souvenir Tiki-Tankard at Sunshine Tree Terrace in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom View the full article

American Express said company President Ed Gilligan died suddenly Friday after falling ill while flying on a corporate plane to New York. View the full article

A Kissimmee police school resource officer was charged with child abuse after he allegedly slammed a 13-year-old student and pinned him on the ground while twisting his arm, officials said. View the full article

A man is accused of shooting at Orlando Police officers and the SWAT team as they served a search warrant Friday, officials said. View the full article

As we reflect on all we’ve accomplished with the community over the past 60 years, our dazzling Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration presents us with the opportunity to inspire the next generation of leaders right here in Orange County. In that spirit, Disneyland Resort donated more than $60,000 in scholarship funds to support the pursuit of higher education. Last night, during a special ceremony held at the Main Street Opera House in Disneyland park, we presented 11 nonprofit organizations dedicated to serving diverse students with funds supporting their scholarship efforts. Organizations included: 100 Black Men of Orange CountyAmerican Indian Chamber of CommerceAdvancement Via Individual Determination (AVID)California State University, Fullerton Hispanic ScholarshipHispanic Education Endowment Fund (HEEF)National Hispanic Business Woman Association (NHBWA)OC Black ChamberOC Hispanic Chamber Education FoundationOrange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance (OCAPICA)Santa Ana CollegeVietnamese American Chamber of CommerceThe reception culminated with a viewing of the new “Paint the Night” parade. On behalf of the Disneyland Resort, thank you to all of the organizations for promoting the importance of education among our youth. Keep up the dazzling work! Disneyland Resort Celebrates 60th Anniversary, Grants More than $60,000 to Diversity Scholarship Funds by Kevin Rafferty, Jr.: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

TAVARES — Families enjoying an ice-cream outing at Twistee Treat got a front-row seat to a wild police chase as a 54-year-old man hopped curbs, drove over grass and sped through a mobile-home park filled with retirees, police said Friday. View the full article

The Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration is underway, here are a few other events taking place in June that are sure to dazzle you! June 6: Let your imagination soar! Join us as we welcome authors Jonathan Case and Jeff Jensen who will be on the hand for a special signing of their book, Before Tomorrowland. Meet Jonathan and Jeff from 10–noon at Little Green Men Store Command in Tomorrowland at Disneyland park. Learn more here. June 6-7: Leilani Joy is back! Stop by June 6–7 and again June 20-21, from 2-5 p.m., each day, at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District to see some of Leilani’s newest releases and more. Learn more here. June 13: Your collection will dazzle with this vibrant and iconic Hipster Mickey piece by artist Jerrod Maruyama, created in commemoration of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration. Jerrod will be on hand for a special appearance and signing from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District. Learn more here. June 13–14: If you have been waiting for just the right time to order one of artist Dave Avanzino’s Custom Letter Plaques or the new 60th Edition Series Plaques, you’re in luck! Dave will be appearing from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., each day, at Disneyana inside Disneyland park. Learn more here. June 20: Join us for a special artist showcase at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District as we celebrate the release of new works of art by Sean Chao, Joey Chou, Max Grundy, Danny Handke and Leilani Joy from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Learn more here. June 27: Take part in a Disney Fine Art showcase with Collectors Editions artist Jimmy Mulligan from 9–11 a.m. at Disneyana on Main Street, U.S.A., inside Disneyland park. Learn more here. Artist in Residence: Appearing at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District throughout the month is artist Max Grundy. Look for artist showcases on the following dates: June 12, 13, 19, 20, 26 – 27 from 6-10 p.m. Learn more here. Which artist are you most excited to meet? June 2015 Merchandise Events at the Disneyland Resort by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The first time Dave Sweet went surfing, in 1945, he was 16 and his wooden board weighed more than he did. View the full article

SANFORD — The man accused of shooting at George Zimmerman will use a "stand your ground" defense in an attempt to clear himself, his lawyer said Friday. View the full article

Let’s wrap up our look back at “Sixty Years of Innovation” at the Disneyland Resort with a nighttime spectacular that, in just five short years, has become an instant classic. “World of Color” opened at Disney California Adventure park in June 2010 and was immediately a fan favorite. Since its premiere, “World of Color” has been performed more than 2,600 times and experienced by more than ten million guests. Blending technology with classic storytelling, the show continues to change – with new Disney films, the holiday season, and now with the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration. Five years from planning to opening, “World of Color” was envisioned to be a “living ‘Fantasia,’” using music, animation, color, light and water to immerse the audience in a storytelling journey. The scale of the show is massive, and the “dancing” fountains needed to bring it to life required innovations that the creative team was told were impossible. When they were told they couldn’t have fountains with multiple heads or moving heads, they created them. When they were told they couldn’t create color and light in the fountains, they found ways. Every piece of the show involved a new innovation. The “stage” for “World of Color” was another innovation in itself: a platform composed of nearly 1 full acre of engineered superstructure, longer than a football field and capable of settling on three levels – one for the performance, one under the water surface and one for maintenance. The show features nearly 1,200 powerful and programmable fountains, and a vast underwater grid with more than 18,000 points of control. Each fountain has multiple points of control for lighting, color intensity, water angle, height and more. And now, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Disneyland Resort, “World of Color – Celebrate!” is hosted by award-winning actor Neil Patrick Harris and the one-and-only Mickey Mouse, taking guests on a journey through the unparalleled imagination of Walt Disney to see how his extraordinary dreams came true. Sixty Years of Innovation: ‘World of Color’ at Disney California Adventure Park by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Greetings from Skagway, Alaska, gateway to the Klondike! Today marks Day 4 of our first Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise to Alaska, and things are starting to get really Goofy here on the Disney Wonder. I’m joined by Disney Legend Bill Farmer, the longtime voice of Goofy and one of the many special performers and presenters who are helping make this voyage unlike any other. Bill recently earned a prestigious Annie Award from the International Animated Film Association for Outstanding Achievement in Voice Acting for a Television Production – one of several Annie Awards garnered by the contemporary animated shorts that have returned Mickey Mouse, Goofy and other familiar characters to their squashing, stretching, comedic roots. We’re screening some of Bill’s favorite shorts during our voyage, including “Goofy’s Grandma,” the title that earned Bill his Annie. I asked Bill to share a few insights with our friends here on the Disney Parks Blog, and he does just that in the video below. I’ve also included the “Goofy’s Grandma” short in its entirety so you can hear Bill’s award-winning performance for yourself. I’ll be back in touch again before our voyage ends, but I need to run to get Bill back to the buffet. You wouldn’t like him when he’s hungry. Disney Vacation Club Goes Wild About Goofy by Ryan March: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Disney's Hollywood Studios has unveiled its new version of the Great Movie Ride. View the full article

Orlando City Soccer Club president Phil Rawlins thought Orlando was an ideal city in which to build a Major League Soccer club. What he didn't know was just how big the market could be. View the full article

Orlando City will no longer have to wait on state funding to build its soccer-specific stadium. View the full article

Star Wars Weekends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is an annual event that features activities for all ages, so even the youngest family members can join in on the fun. All three of my little girls are huge fans of the characters from both the original films and the new Star Wars Rebels series on Disney XD, so it is a huge treat for them to meet their favorites in person. Parents of Padawans won’t want to miss these incredibly themed hands-on experiences, taking place weekends May 15 – June 14, 2015. Jedi Training Academy – Kids from 4 to 12 can sign up to train to be a Jedi and battle an evil Sith from the dark sideLightsaber building – Little ones can build the lightsaber of their imaginations in Tatooine TradersCharacter Meet & Greets –Get up-close with icons from both Star Wars heroes and villains at meet & greet locations throughout the park. Don’t forget your autograph book!LEGO interactive build station – Little ones can spend endless amounts of time building their own Star Wars creations at this unique hands-on stationStar Wars Droid Factory – Kids can build their own astromech droid action figure, just like Luke Skywalker in Star WarsPadawan Mind Challenge – Designed for kids ages 4 to 11, this interactive trivia event will test your little ones’ Star Wars knowledge“Symphony in the Stars” Fireworks – Kids may actually want to take a nap just so they can stay up for this finale celebration that features popular Star Wars characters#DisneyKids: How Little Ones Can Make the Most of Star Wars Weekends by Jamie Langdon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

It’s finally here! We have more information to share with you from the 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival, which runs September 25-November 16, 2015. The Eat to the Beat Concert line-up is in the books! There are lots of exciting returning acts like Hanson, Wilson Phillips, and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. And as always, a few new acts freshen up the mix a bit. We look forward to seeing Tiffany, Everclear, Maxi Priest, and Chaka Khan this year! Here’s the full list. Don’t forget to check out our 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival page for all the latest details on the festival! 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Line-UpDavid Cook – September 25-27, 2015Wilson Phillips – September 28-29, 2015Christopher Cross – September 30-October 1, 2015Starship – October 2-4, 2015Smash Mouth – October 5-7, 2015The Pointer Sisters – October 8-9, 201538 Special – October 10-11, 2015Rick Springfield – October 12-13, 2015Sugar Ray – October 14-16, 2015The S.O.S. Band – October 17-18, 2015Air Supply – October 19-21, 2015Fuel – October 22-23, 2015Tiffany (NEW!) – October 24-25, 2015Dennis DeYoung – October 26-28, 2015Jo Dee Messina – October 29-30, 2015Everclear (NEW!) – October 31-November 1, 2015Boyz II Men – November 2-4, 2015Sister Hazel – November 5-6, 2015Big Bad Voodoo Daddy – November 7-9, 2015Hanson – November 10-12, 2015Maxi Priest (NEW!) – November 13-14, 2015Chaka Khan (NEW!) – November 15-16, 2015Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Performing at Eat to the Beat Eat to the Beat concerts are free with Epcot admission throughout the festival. You can catch up to three shows per night at at 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM and 8:00 PM in the America Gardens Theater, located in the America Pavilion. Check out our Eat to the Beat Concert page for details and times. Start Your Planning Today! The DFB Guide to the 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival e-Book is now available for Pre-Order! This 200+-page guide to the Festival offers insider tips and advice as well as all of the details you need to know to plan your best Festival visit ever. Pre-order your 2015 edition today, and download the 2014 guide for FREE — immediately! Your purchase includes several bonus items as well — including a full daily schedule of events at the Festival and a printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist to carry with you as you Eat around the World! Use code Chefs at check-out for a $3 discount! Is YOUR favorite actappearing during the 2015 Eat to the Beat Concert Series? Let us know who you’re looking forward to seeing the most! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: News! 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule Preliminary Dates News! 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule News! 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concerts Announced View the full article

Tony Morris has already hired a contractor to build cars for his levitating train in Orlando, but there’s one big problem. View the full article

While World Oceans Day is recognized globally on June 8, you can join us at the perfect venue — The Seas with Nemo & Friends at Epcot — on June 3 to get a head start on the festivities! After you enjoy the attraction with Nemo, Marlin, Dory and all your fishy friends, stick around to explore our huge 5.7 million-gallon aquarium to see and learn all about tropical fish, stingrays, sea turtles and even sharks! You may already know it’s tough to be a bug, but do you know how tough it is to be a sea turtle? You can catch a glimpse into the lives of sea turtles from their very first day of life. Our replica sea turtle nest will be on display for you to get an up-close view into a sea turtle’s journey. You can also experience an interactive model of a turtle excluder device (TED) which is used on fishing boats to prevent sea turtles from getting caught in trawl nets. Sea turtles face seemingly insurmountable odds, but people all over the world are doing their part to protect these magnificent animals. Come visit The Seas with Nemo & Friends to learn what you can do to help, too. Coral conservation activities will be another highlight of our celebration. Did you know coral reefs are known as the rainforests of the ocean? That’s because while they only make up about 0.2 percent of the area on the planet, coral reefs are home to nearly 25 percent of the world’s marine life! These reefs are in danger because of the many threats to coral including ocean pollution, climate change, poor fishing practices and more, but teams at The Seas with Nemo & Friends are committed to saving them. We have been working on coral restoration, community involvement and education in The Bahamas to restore local reefs through coral transplantation and sea urchin translocation. You will be able to speak with members of the team directly involved in these projects and more! Even though not all of us may live by the ocean, everyone can play a part in protecting this essential ecosystem. Oceans play a major role in our everyday lives, and they are worth celebrating each and every day! Let’s Celebrate World Oceans Day at Epcot! by Sara Green: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Orlando City will make a “major announcement” regarding its soccer-specific stadium today at 2 p.m. at City Hall, sources with knowledge of the announcement told the Orlando Sentinel. View the full article

The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame will relocate on the Kennedy Space Center grounds to the Visitor Complex, as construction began at an announcement Friday. View the full article

Conceptual designs for rail connecting to International Drive are part of discussion at the Orange County Convention Plaza District Review Group today. View the full article

In January, we let you in on the dates for this year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. One of my favorite times of the year! And this year is the 20th anniversary of the festival! Now, I have the enviable task of giving you more info on this year’s festival – the lineup for 2015’s “Eat to the Beat” concert series. Being a child of the ‘80s, I’m SUPER pumped for some of our new acts like Tiffany and Chaka Kahn. Also new to this year’s festival are the S.O.S. Band, Everclear and Maxi Priest. Here’s the full list. Hope your favorite is on there! David Cook – September 25-27, 2015Wilson Phillips – September 28-29, 2015Christopher Cross – September 30-October 1, 2015Starship – October 2-4, 2015Smash Mouth – October 5-7, 2015The Pointer Sisters – October 8-9, 201538 Special – October 10-11, 2015Rick Springfield – October 12-13, 2015Sugar Ray – October 14-16, 2015The S.O.S. Band – October 17-18, 2015Air Supply – October 19-21, 2015Fuel – October 22-23, 2015Tiffany (NEW!) – October 24-25, 2015Dennis DeYoung – October 26-28, 2015Jo Dee Messina – October 29-30, 2015Everclear (NEW!) – October 31-November 1, 2015Boyz II Men – November 2-4, 2015Sister Hazel – November 5-6, 2015Big Bad Voodoo Daddy – November 7-9, 2015Hanson – November 10-12, 2015Maxi Priest (NEW!) – November 13-14, 2015Chaka Khan (NEW!) – November 15-16, 2015Please note: Daily show times take place at 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM and 8:00 PM. Entertainment and appearances are subject to change without notice. Be sure to check back to the Disney Parks Blog for updated info on this year’s festival. Bonne ẻcoute!” (Happy Listening!) Rick Springfield, Tiffany, Chaka Kahn Rock ‘Eat to the Beat’ Concert Series at 2015 Epcot Food & Wine Festival by Charles Stovall, Public Relations, manager: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article