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If music has the power to take you away, then brace yourself for a trip to a Hawaiian paradise with “Disney Aulani Sounds” on Pandora! This new mixtape includes songs by artists featured at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, creating an authentic Hawaiian musical experience. While listening to the playlist, you’ll enjoy songs from the “Aulani: Music of the Maka’ala” soundtrack – including my favorite, “Mele Ho‘ala Moku.” As quite the avid fan, I can assure you that taking a moment to close your eyes and listen to these songs transports you away to Aulani. And to connect listeners to Aulani, Disney and Pandora also included musical artists who regularly perform at Off the Hook and The ‘Olelo Room. If you are vacationing at Aulani, be sure to check out The Daily ‘Iwa to see which local artists are performing – you may recognize their music from the “Disney Aulani Sounds” station! Lastly, don’t forget that Mother’s Day is just around the corner! Aulani is celebrating moms the whole month of May with an all-new breakfast-in-bed option and a blissful menu of spa treatments at the award-winning Laniwai Spa. Celebrate Mom with aloha and learn more about “Mahalo Momma Month” here. Sounds from Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Now on Pandora by Tyler Slater: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Last weekend, we built Disney’s 60th – and largest – KaBOOM! playground nationwide at Twila Reid Park in Anaheim, Calif in honor of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration. The playground is inspired by drawings created by kids in the Anaheim Achieves after-school program, and includes a disc golf course, a zip line, horseshoe pits, a giant “fun web” and, of course, swings and slides! Disney VoluntEAR Shira Wolf was one of more than 700 volunteers who installed the playground in eight hours. She told us, “KaBOOM! playground builds are my favorite Disney VoluntEARS events because they are so much fun and give us a chance to come out and be active with the kids and families in our community. I love it!” In addition to Disney VoluntEARS, organizers from KaBOOM! and volunteers from the Anaheim Family YMCA, city of Anaheim, the Corporate Volunteer Council of Orange County and Anaheim residents helped build Disney’s eighth KaBOOM! playground in Orange County, Calif. They also installed more than 20 benches, painted three murals and planted several trees. Since 2007, Disney has been committed to creating playgrounds where children and families can play together and be active. This commitment is an extension of our Disney Magic of Healthy Living, an initiative designed to help parents raise healthy, happy kids and make healthier lifestyles fun. By the end of 2015, Disney’s support will bring the magic of play to more than 83,000 children and families across the country! Disney’s 60th KaBOOM! Playground, Largest to Date, Built in Anaheim in Celebration of the 60th Anniversary of the Disneyland Resort by Kevin Rafferty, Jr.: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

A law enforcement team in Brevard County arrested a 79-year-old fugitive who escaped from an Ohio prison in 1959 at his Melbourne trailer on Monday, a sheriff's office spokesman said. View the full article

Star Wars Weekends begin at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on May 15th and WE. CAN’T. WAIT! Especially now, since there’s a whole new dining hangout for all you Rebels out there coming to Echo Lake: the Rebel Hangar: A Star Wars Lounge Experience! Here’s what we know: according to Disney, the Rebel Hangar was “once a known hangout of Rebel pilots, aliens, and smugglers.” Themeing of the atmosphere will be a major part of the experience, with abandoned spacecraft and remnants of vehicles framing the entry. But themeing of the FOOD seems to be just as much of a draw! Among the items on the menu: some Fruit and Cheese Sabers… © Disney And Ensalada Naboo! © Disney The Slider Sampler featuring “The Sith” barbecue-braised brisket and “The Jedi” barbecued pulled chicken features items for your inner Jedi or your Dark Side. © Disney A lovely Trio of Thermal Detonators (aka spicy pork wings), anyone ? © Disney Check out the Pilot’s Pomme Frites with everyone’s favorite Wookie! © Disney Chips and SITH!!! Can you even handle it?!? © Disney I’m already loving The Dark Fried Chicken and Darth Vader Waffles! © Disney And, of course, Lightsaber Bites (corn-battered bratswurst)! © Disney Specialty drinks will include the Rebel Red (Grey Goose vodka, Chambord, sour mix and a splash of grenadine) and the Tatooine Sunset (Stoli vanilla, Parrot Bay Coconut Rum, pineapple juice with grenadine) among several others! And for dessert? How about a little (no pun intended ), Mini Yoda Key Lime Cake? © Disney Character-themed Cupcakes will make their return again this year! In addition to Darth Vader and Yoda, JABBA THE HUT is joining the lineup! © Disney If you can’t hangout in the Hangar, the Jabba and Hutt and Yoda cupcakes will be available at the Trolley Car Cafe, Starring Rolls, Backlot Express, and the new Tusken Fridge Raiders snack stop at Darth’s Mall. The Darth Vader Cupcakes will be available at ALL Hollywood Studios Quick Service locations. Advance Dining Reservations are online NOW for Star Wars Weekends (that’s Friday-Sunday only, folks) starting May 15th and ending June 14th from 4:00 to 9:00 pm. Interested guests may also call 407-WDW-DINE. There is no prepayment required — just the standard credit card guarantee. (For that reason, we believe this will be a more traditional Table Service experience where you order from a menu, as opposed to an all-inclusive buffet). This is bound to fill up fast, so May the Force Be With You! What do you think of this latest dining addition to Star Wars Weekends? 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: Star Wars Weekends: Darth Vader Popcorn Bucket News! Star Wars Weekends “Feel the Force” Package Reservations Now Available! News! Han Solo in Carbonite Popcorn Bucket Coming to Star Wars Weekends View the full article

Police say it isn't typically a dangerous intersection. View the full article

With the mother of 4-year-old crash victim Lily Quintus in attendance, Orange County commissioners moved closer Tuesday to mandating protective barriers outside day-care centers. View the full article

The body of an Orlando man was pulled from his submerged pickup truck Tuesday after divers hauled it from a retention pond near Lake Mary and the national headquarters of AAA. View the full article

Some Lake Nona High School students circulated nude pictures of classmates last week, sparking an Orlando police investigation, a report said. View the full article

This September, we’re returning to Hawai‘i with two unforgettable 10-night cruises. These voyages will visit the four major Hawaiian islands—the Big Island, Maui, O‘ahu and Kaua‘i. Over the next several weeks, I’ll tell you about some of the exciting Port Adventures you can join to discover the scenery and experiences found on each island. Let’s start today with excursions in historic Hilo, your gateway to the beauty and culture of the Big Island of Hawai‘i, including Volcanoes National Park. The park is home to Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. On our Volcano National Park Odyssey & Macadamia Nut Factory tour, your adventure starts with a drive along the 11-mile crater rim that circles most of Kilauea’s summit caldera and craters. Stops allow you to view smooth and jagged lava, lava tubes, sulfur banks and bleak desert areas. Next up is the Jagger Museum where there are spectacular overlooks into Kilauea Caldera and Halema‘uma‘u Crater, videos of volcanic eruptions and other geologic displays for you to enjoy. Last is a visit to the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory, the perfect place to shop for delicious gifts. If you’re looking for a more active way to explore the area, you won’t want to miss our Kilauea Volcano Bicycle Adventure that takes you around the crater rim on two wheels. In addition to eight miles of cycling, you’ll hike through an incredible rainforest that leads you directly through an amazing lava tube. With steam surrounding your feet, you’ll witness the heart of the volcano at Halema‘uma‘u Crater. This Port Adventure also includes a visit to the Jagger Museum, plus samples of the Island’s fresh fruit and macadamia nuts. Those of you who want a taste of the Hawaiian lifestyle will absolutely love our Culinary Hawai‘i Home Tour. This one-of-a-kind adventure is a progressive island brunch, showcasing local ingredients, in the homes of three Big Island residents. You’ll savor the flavors of the Islands, like passion fruit, mango, coconut and Kona coffee, and find out what it’s like to live in paradise. During your insider look at islander living, your guides will share details about each home, local trivia and stories of life in paradise. Up next, we’ll venture over to the island of Kaua‘i to see the adventures you can enjoy from Nawiliwili. Remember, when the ship’s in port, venture ashore! Exploring the Big Island of Hawai‘i on Two Special Disney Cruise Line Voyages by Arnaldo Zanonato: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Isn’t it awesome how we just roll right from Star Wars Day into Margarita Day? What a great week!! OK, so where should you go at the East and West Coast Disney parks to celebrate Cinco de Mayo on this not-so-ordinary Tuesday? I’m happy to share my suggestions… ;-D Margarita Flight at La Cava del Tequila La Cava Del Tequila in Disney World’s EpcotIf you’re in Disney World tonight, it’s time to head over to Epcot and settle in (ideally in the early afternoon, because this place will be PACKED come evening) at La Cava del Tequila. I know you’ve heard me talk about it a million times, but for those who are new to DFB (welcome!), this tiny tequila cave has it all figured out. Tequila experts serve only the best, and you can choose from a full menu of incredible options — shots, margaritas, flights, and more. Avocado Margarita at La Cava del Tequila There’s no more authentic place to celebrate Cinco de Mayo (which, let’s face it, is pretty much just a holiday dedicated to Tequila at this point) than here. Tortilla Jo’s in Disneyland’s Downtown Disney DistrictOver on the West Coast, you lucky ducks get to head on over to Tortilla Jo’s in Downtown Disney! This fun romp of a restaurant is sprawling, offering indoor and outdoor seating as well as a great menu including house-made tortillas (of course). Tortilla Jo’s raspberry margarita Indulge in the sangria, a margarita, or anything that suits your fancy. We can promise a festive atmosphere and some delicious food. Tortilla Jo’s queso fundido Tortilla Jo’s Mexican Revolution desserts Trader Sam’s in Disneyland and Disney WorldNo matter if you’re on the east or west coast you’re on tonight, I can recommend heading to one of Trader Sam’s fine establishments! These interactive, not-enough-time-to-see-everything locations are winners any night of the year, even if they’re not necessarily tequila havens like the others on this list. Indulge at Trader Sam’s Indulge in your favorite concoctions and brews, or try one of the Sam’s local recipes. Either way, you’re in for a truly unforgettable night. Kona Beer Flight at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto La Hacienda de San Angel in Disney World’s EpcotBack in Walt Disney World, head over to La Hacienda just in time for the fireworks! This table-service spot features authentic Mexican cuisine (on the pricey side, so be prepared), and some of the same great margaritas you’ll find at La Cava across the promenade. Shrimp Tacos at La Hacienda de San Angel The view of IllumiNations, Reflections of Earth, is fantastic — be sure to wait for a window table when you check in! And if the corn soup is on the menu, get it. Get it now. And save some for me! Classic Margarita with a View at La Hacienda de San Angel Have a great Cinco de Mayo everyone! Let us know what you’re up to today! And if you want to find even more awesome margaritas in Disney World, check out our Disney Margarita Gallery! Where would you be headed if you were in a Disney park today? Let us know in the comments below! 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: Celebrating Cinco de Mayo in Disney World News! Epcot’s Mexico Pavilion Celebrates Cinco de Mayo with Special Menu Items Great New Drinks to Enjoy at Disney World View the full article

Take a look behind the scenes of the creation of the new Main Street Enchanted Windows with John Gritz, Creative Designer at Walt Disney Imagineering. http://di.sn/6001AcM3 Read more on...From:Disney ParksViews:301116ratingsTime:02:41More inTravel & Events

Gator Spot, the smaller Gatorland attraction at Fun Spot America Orlando, is now open for business. View the full article

Those in the Southern U.S. can get a chance to see this annual meteor shower created by Earth passing through the old comet dust trail of Halley's comet. View the full article

Florida Highway Patrol troopers are investigating after the body of an Orlando man and his Nissan pickup were found Tuesday in a pond in the Heathrow area of Seminole County. View the full article

If you’ve wandered down Main Street, U.S.A., at Disneyland park recently, you may have noticed some of the windows along the front of the Emporium are covered. What is going on behind those blue curtains, you ask? Today, I’m excited to tell you! The beloved Main Street animated windows will come to life once again for the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration as Main Street Enchanted Windows. Since the early 1960s, scenes from Disney animated classics have been featured in the windows of the Emporium at Disneyland park. This year, for the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration, these classic windows will be updated with new, exciting technology and effects. Get a sneak peek at these windows in the video below! There will be a total of six Main Street Enchanted Windows. The first two, featuring the stories of “Peter Pan” and “Cinderella,” will be unveiled in May, followed by “Frozen” and “The Princess and the Frog” in July, and “Toy Story” and “Aladdin” in August. The Main Street Enchanted Windows are just another way the Disneyland Resort continues to delight guests in ways both big and small … from our new nighttime spectaculars and the addition of new magic to classic attractions, to special details that catch your eye as you stroll down Main Street, U.S.A. See it all for yourself when the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration begins May 22! ˜New Main Street Enchanted Windows to Debut for Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Two women and a man died early Tuesday morning when the vehicles they were in collided on State Road 436 in Casselberry, officials said. View the full article

Guests attending Star Wars Weekends will be able to find shelter and sustenance in the Rebel Hangar: A Star Wars Lounge Experience. Reports have been made that this location was once a known hangout of Rebel pilots, aliens and smugglers; with the immersive environment and stellar bites—I understand why! GalleryRebel Hangar: A Star Wars Lounge Experience Coming to Star Wars Weekends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios view allLook for a menu full of Star Wars-themed food and beverage offerings that are out of this world: Galactic Garlic/Parmesan Fries – these are tossed with parmesan cheese, garlic and parsley with a garlic aioli for dippingPadmé Amidala Naboo Salad – seared chicken breast, bibb lettuce, grape tomatoes, watermelon radish, almond frica, and a parmesan-peppercorn ranch dressingLightsaber Bites – hand-dipped corn-battered knockwurst sausages with house-made chips and mustard dipping sauceChicken and Darth Vader waffles served with maple syrup and sweet barbecue sauceTrio of Thermal Detonators – spicy pork wings topped with spicy piquillo-pepper sauce and slawSlider Sampler featuring “The Sith” barbecue-braised brisket with cole slaw and “The Jedi” with barbecued pulled chicken with arugulaFruit and Cheese “Sabers” featuring Tillamook cheddar, Brie, goat cheese, pickled vegetables, crostini, cheddar crackers, blueberries, raspberries, honeydew melon, strawberry, olives and gherkinsDarth Maul hummus with red pepper coulis, black sesame dust, and corn tortilla chipsYoda Key Lime CakeTrio of Star Wars mini cupcakes, including Darth Vader (chocolate-peanut butter), Yoda (chocolate-hazelnut), and Jabba the Hutt (salted caramel latte) served in the Han Solo Carbonite Souvenir BoxA new drink menu will also be available: Imperial Blue – Maker’s Mark Whisky, Cointreau, Blue Curacao, sweet and sour, topped with SpriteTatooine Sunset – Stoli vanilla, Parrot Bay Coconut Rum, pineapple juice with grenadineRebel Red – Grey Goose vodka, Chambord, sour mix and a splash of grenadineDagobah Swamp Juice – Midori, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, sweet and sour, topped with lemon-lime foamThe Dark Side – Stoli vanilla vodka, Bailey’s liqueur, crème de cocoa and brownie garnishAlderaan AleThe Jabba the Hutt and Yoda cupcakes will also be available at Tusken Fridge Raiders, Trolley Car Café, Starring Rolls Cafe, and Backlot Express. The Darth Vader cupcake will be available at all quick-service locations, including Starring Rolls Cafe, and Trolley Car Cafe and Tusken Fridge Raiders at Darth’s Mall. For Reservations, visit DisneyWorld.com/dine or call 407-WDW-DINE. May the food be with you! Rebel Hangar: A Star Wars Lounge Experience Coming to Star Wars Weekends by Rachel Brent: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Osceola County's drawn-out flirtation with Colt has come end, as county commissioners voted 4-1 to terminate its contract with the company for a regional headquarters in Kissimmee — as well as agreeing to pay back the state for its help in improving the site. View the full article

The other man from Hope is running for president again. View the full article

A law enforcement team in Brevard County arrested a 79-year-old fugitive who escaped from an Ohio prison in 1959 in Melbourne, a sheriff's office spokesman said. View the full article

May 3 has been a difficult day for golfer Tiger Woods for some time. View the full article

Tropical disturbance, Tuesday, May 5 View the full article

Be a part of Walt Disney's dream during the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration: a dream that has inspired millions of young people—and people young at heart—to visit something more...From:Disney ParksViews:301168ratingsTime:00:31More inTravel & Events

Orlando real estate investment trust National Retail Properties reported higher earnings and revenue in the first quarter after buying $155.2 million worth of new property. View the full article

Troopers are investigating after a body and a submerged vehicle were found in the Heathrow area of Seminole County. View the full article