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It’s hard not to walk through a Disney Park and feel inspired or to have fond childhood memories come to mind – or in the case of Photographer Mariah Wild, both. Mariah, a photography intern in our Yellow Shoes Department, recently visited the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, and during a walk through the United Kingdom Pavilion, was struck with an old memory. “When I was walking through the beautiful flowers in the gardens … it was like I could hear all the flowers singing ‘The Garden/All in the Golden Afternoon’ from “Alice in Wonderland,” she said. Mariah wondered if it was possible to recreate that moment from the film – in which a shrunken Alice wanders through a garden of oversized, musical flowers – in real life. Mariah worked with the Horticulture team to arrange the flowers just the way they appeared in the film. Alice even agreed to stop in to participate. Here’s the result: Can’t get enough “Alice In Wonderland”? A brand-new film, “Alice Through the Looking Glass,” will be released in theaters on May 27, 2016. Festival Flowers Inspires a Unique ‘Alice in Wonderland’ Photo at Walt Disney World Resort by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

An ownership company for The Daily Buzz TV show has filed for bankruptcy, two weeks after an investor dispute led to cancellation of the Winter Park-based show. View the full article

DAYTONA BEACH — A 28-year-old Central Florida woman died in her jail cell after being arrested during a prostitution sting. View the full article

So, if you’ve been following along recently, you know that LOTS of changes are in store for Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Learn About: Tamu Tamu RefreshmentsAnimal Kingdom Disney World RestaurantsAmong them, Starbucks is due to open in mid-June, and the new Harambe Market will bring us FOUR new walkup food windows (along with merchandise shops) when it opens in late May. Add to that there are still rumors floating around about the possible addition of a Table Service restaurant to be located in part of what is currently Pizzafari… well, suffice it to say, the dining options at Animal Kingdom are certainly expanding! With so many new food stops in the works, it’s bound to affect some of the established eateries around the park. In fact, we’ve already begun to see hints of change starting at Tamu Tamu Refreshments. Tamu Tamu Refreshments You see, it’s located in the village of Harambe in Animal Kingdom’s Africa, so it’s just across the way from where the Market will be. Location of Tamu Tamu in Animal Kingdom’s Africa Since the Harambe Market will have a whole slew of new entrees to choose from, the menu at Tamu Tamu just switched over to focus entirely on desserts and drinks as opposed to its previous entrees like curry dishes and the Pulled Beef Sandwich. Lucky me, I had a group of friends visiting Animal Kingdom who offered to try them ALL! Taste-Testers!! Or perhaps I should say, “Lucky THEM,” because altogether there are FIVE desserts on the menu! All-new Tamu Tamu menu While the Pineapple Whip Soft-serve (with Dark or Coconut Rum) has been available since last May, the Chocolate Waffle with Espresso Mousse, Double Chocolate-Chip Ice Cream Sandwich, Mickey Ice Cream Chocolate Cookie Sundae, and Chocolate-covered Espresso Beans are all BRAND NEW to Tamu Tamu! Tamu Tamu desserts Let’s take them one by one, starting with the Chocolate Waffle topped with an Espresso Mousse. Chocolate Waffle with Espresso Mousse The group reported that the waffle was nice and cripsy, and the espresso flavor in the mousse was really nice, but also subtle — more like a coffee ice cream taste, and therefore still an approachable dessert even for someone who isn’t big into coffee. One taste-tester mentioned, “Nutella would have sealed the deal to take it from a good snack to a must-get.” (I knew I liked her.) Chocolate Waffle with Espresso Mousse While group consensus was an overall thumbs up on the taste, everyone agreed the portion could have been bigger for the $5.39 price tag (you can see how it’s really just one quarter of a round Belgian waffle). Next up? The Double Chocolate-Chip Ice Cream Sandwich! You know how I feel about Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches, so I was definitely pleased to hear that this one landed the award for overall group favorite. Double Chocolate-Chip Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich The cookie was said to be delicious with ample chocolate chips (if I may quote, “This cookie is legit” ), even though it was harder than expected due to being served cold. But, hey, anything to help the ice cream keep its form on a hot Animal Kingdom day! Or at least try… Double Chocolate-Chip Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich Considering those factors, it’s a definite fork and knife operation, but well worth it! Double Chocolate-Chip Ice Cream Sandwich The Mickey Ice Cream Chocolate Cookie Sundae is… well, the picture really says it all. Mickey Ice Cream Chocolate Cookie Sundae It’s basically a scoop of vanilla ice cream with sprinkles, so there’s nothing too special here. Still, finicky kiddos may be pleased with the chocolate cookie ears (reported to be hard/crunchy) for the added cute factor. Opinions were mixed on the pre-packaged Chocolate-covered Espresso Beans. Chocolate-covered Espresso Beans For those who haven’t tried some version of this treat at your local coffee shop, these are noted for their very strong coffee flavor (you’re biting directly into an espresso coffee bean surrounded by dark chocolate, just as the name implies ). Chocolate-covered Espresso Bean A little too much coffee for the non-coffee drinker, according to one of my buddies. However, another noted them as being a good “upper” for a hot day at Disney! At the same time, though, it was reported that the version you can purchase at Starbucks is much better, so you may want to save your bucks here for the ‘Bucks. Before we check out the final dessert, my friends also tried one beverage that you won’t see on the main menu: the African Coffee. African Coffee You’ll often see it mentioned on a little tabletop sign propped in front of the registers, letting you know that it’s $8.00. Essentially coffee with Amarula topped with whipped cream, it’s a “pretty tasty” way to get a little more kick with your caffeine fix! African Coffee So, how about a good ol’ Pineapple Soft-serve (Dole) Whip to finish? And why not with a shot of Coconut Rum while we’re at it? Pineapple soft-serve with Coconut Rum Though it’s pretty much your standard Dole Whip (nothin’ wrong with that!), we learned last spring at the Flower and Garden Festival’s Pineapple Promenade that the combo of Pineapple Soft-serve and coconut rum just works. My friends informed me, though, that the one served up at Epcot during the Festival is stronger. Good to know!! Something else my friends reminded me about… remember that if you have any questions regarding ingredients or allergy concerns, you can always speak with Cast Members working at the location. They may be able to produce one of these handy binders showcasing nutritional information, ingredients, etc. Tamu Tamu Allergy Book You can see below the images of all of the ingredients — very helpful. Chocolate Cookie Sandwich Allergy Info Sheet Pineapple Soft-serve Info Sheet And with that we wrap up our first of what’s bound to be many visits to Animal Kingdom in the coming months! MANY thanks to @danielwanderman, anony-mouse, @disdug, @jellicle0, and @shalongiven for taking one for the team ;), and helping us out! What do you think of the desserts-only menu at Tamu Tamu? 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: New Menu Item: Quinoa Salad at Tamu Tamu Refreshments in Animal Kingdom Guest Review: Tamu Tamu Refreshments in Disney’s Animal Kingdom News! And Review: Animal Kingdom’s Tamu Tamu Refreshments New Menu! View the full article

SeaWorld is fighting three lawsuits from customers who say the company misled them about treatment of its whales, but several legal experts say the cases may be difficult for the plaintiffs to win. View the full article

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"Zeitgeist" means the prevailing cultural mood of an era. I hate using such $3 words as much as I hate defending Jameis Winston, but "Morning Joe" leaves me no choice. View the full article

Walter John Cassidy spent years trading drugs and booze for sex with female prisoners he drove across the U.S. without anyone discovering he was a convict, according to federal prosecutors in Tallahassee. View the full article

A 16-year-old boy is expected to survive after he was shot in the face in the parking lot of a Hooters restaurant Monday evening. View the full article

The driver who infamously tweeted she was "2 drunk 2 care" the night a wrong-way crash killed two other young women on the Sawgrass Expressway in 2013 was sentenced Monday to 24 years in prison. View the full article

President Barack Obama gives the nation's thanks to David Letterman for a long run in late night. View the full article

The Orlando Police Department will equip patrol officers with body cameras after a study determined that the devices improve safety, reduce complaints and increase transparency, Chief John Mina said Monday. View the full article

A new high school dedicated to the performing arts -- and open to students from across Orange County -- would be built in downtown Orlando, under plans the school district is to announce tomorrow. View the full article

Eric Jacobsen, known around the globe for his work with cutting-edge string quartet Brooklyn Rider and cellist Yo-Yo Ma, is the new music director of the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. View the full article

SeaWorld is fighting five lawsuits from customers who say the company misled them about treatment of its whales, but several legal experts say the cases may be difficult for the plaintiffs to win. View the full article

NASA said Monday that it wants proposals from companies to build privately run rocket-launching sites at Kennedy Space Center, which would accelerate the transformation of Kennedy and Cape Canaveral into a public-private spaceport used by NASA, the military and commercial space interests. View the full article

Today, we’re kicking off a new weekly series “Moms Panel Monday” with one of our most popular questions – what are some great things to do at the Walt Disney World Resort when visiting with children? As many of you know, the Disney Parks Moms Panel is an online forum where you can find tips and insights for a Disney vacation from real moms, dads and grandparents who have mastered the art of planning Disney vacations. And on the site, you can ask questions to the panelists in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese, as well as gain access to other vacation-planning tools for booking a Disney vacation. For our first question, the panelists are offering their own take on what will keep children of all ages entertained: Ideas for your next Disney Park visitCheck back next week for our next Moms Panel Monday story. And if you have a question, feel free to ask the Disney Parks Moms Panel. Moms Panel Monday: Visiting Walt Disney World Resort with Kids of All Ages by Jamie Langdon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

TAVARES — Lake County School Board members, taking advantage of a new testing law signed by Gov. Rick Scott that provides more leeway in administering tests, on Monday voted to do away with end-of-course exams this school year. View the full article

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge announced the name of their baby daughter today – Charlotte Elizabeth Diana. With all eyes on England, it’s the perfect time to celebrate one of Great Britain’s most time-honored fashion statements – the fascinator. Sometimes referred to as a “cocktail hat,” the modern-day fascinator can be worn in place of a traditional hat at formal occasions such as weddings. They are also popular at horse-racing events, like the recent Kentucky Derby. (I love any excuse to wear a fascinator – it always makes me feel fancy and frilly in the best possible way!) Interested in finding a favorite fascinator for yourself? Look no further than Chapel Hats, one of the new retails locations in the heart of Downtown Disney. If you’re not sure which headpiece fits you best, their friendly staff will help you decide. Trying on is encouraged, and with plenty of mirrors in the store, you’re sure to find something that suits you! A Focus on Fascinators from Chapel Hats at Downtown Disney in Florida by Darcy Clark: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

SunRail officially has won a $93 million grant from the federal government to expand the commuter train system 17 miles south into Osceola County. View the full article

“All it takes is faith and trust. Oh! And something I forgot. Dust! Yep, just a little bit of Pixie Dust.” – Peter Pan Get your fairy wings ready for Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend presented by PANDORA Jewelry and show your Disney Side with these fairy-inspired looks. New Balance’s newest addition to their Limited Edition runDisney Collection is the Fresh Foam Boracay inspired by Tinker Bell shoe. Be one of the first to fly away with your own pair at the runDisney Health & Expo. To go along with the new Tink-inspired kicks, check out these fairy looks from Leslie Kay of DisneyBound to help fly you to the finish line at during your race. First is the star of the weekend – sweet and sassy Tinker Bell’s look showcases her own personalized shoes with wings and different shades of green to fit her fun charisma. Fawn is an Animal Talent fairy, which is why the sunny color palette from Champion helps bring out her loving personality. And finally, Garden Fairy Rosetta can embrace exactly who she is in her pink color palette. Good luck to all participants during Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend. In my next post, I will share some of my favorite fairy-inspired outfits from the weekend as well as bring these looks to life at Disneyland Resort! Share your outfits with us on Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #TinkHalf! Check out NBvirtualqueue.com to find out how to get your Fresh Foam Boracay inspired by Tinker Bell. Show Your Fairy #DisneySide During Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend at the Disneyland Resort by Aubrey Hang: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Disney Channel star, Cameron Boyce (Jessie) and his sister, Maya Boyce, check out exciting attractions at Walt Disney World Resort to get an early start on their Coolest Summer Ever and see...From:Disney ParksViews:381207ratingsTime:01:46More inTravel & Events

TALLAHASSEE – Florida taxpayers are likely to shell out an additional $156,000 this year as a result of the gridlock between the House and the Senate, at least if recent history is a good measure. View the full article

There’s no doubt that Star Tours – The Adventures Continue is a fan-favorite attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. But just how well do you know this attraction? Test your knowledge below! .quiz-container#wp-quiz-156485{background-color:#f0f8fb;color:#565656;border-color:#dce4e7;}.quiz-container#wp-quiz-156485 .quiz-section h1{color:#8bb428;}.quiz-container#wp-quiz-156485 .quiz-title{color:#10628b;}.quiz-container#wp-quiz-156485 .quiz-header-image{text-align:right;}.quiz-container#wp-quiz-156485 .quiz-section{border-color:#ffffff;}.quiz-container#wp-quiz-156485 .quiz-details, .quiz-container#wp-quiz-156485 .quiz-results, .quiz-container#wp-quiz-156485 .quiz-embed{border-color:#dce4e7;}.quiz-container#wp-quiz-156485 .quiz-result{background-color:#dce4e7;} Star Tours – The Adventures Continue at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Star Tours – The Adventures Continue at Disney’s Hollywood Studios by mkilwein: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog What is the name of your transportation vehicle you board for your adventure with Star Tours – The Adventures Continues? Starspeeder 3000 Echo Lake Speeder Starspeeder 1000 How many different story combinations can you experience at Star Tours – The Adventures Continue? Over 25 Over 35 Over 50 Which of the following is NOT a destination you may visit during your journey? Naboo Hoth Utapau Which character will you NOT encounter during your journey? Ahsoka Tano Admiral Ackbar Boba Fett Who is your pilot during your journey with Star Tours – The Adventures Continues? R2-D2 C-3PO Yoda Embed Quiz on Your Website Embed Code <div class="wp-quiz" data-quiz-id="156485" data-site-url="http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog"></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/wp-content/plugins/wp-quizzes/js/embed.js"></script>Copy and paste above embed code where you would like the quiz to appear on your website. QUIZ: How Well Do You Know Star Tours – The Adventures Continue by Nate Rasmussen: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

It’s (one of) the most wonderful times of the year — if you’re a Star Wars fan, that is! If you need some gear to get you ready for your trip, then you’ve come to the right place! But even if you don’t have the time or cash to travel light years away, we think that embracing your inner Rebel (or Empire Loyalist) is the next best thing. Let’s take a look at some fun options. And keep in mind – Think Geek Star Wars Gear is 20% off  TODAY! And as a bonus, you’ll receive a free Star Wars Pin with Star Wars orders of $20 or more! Star Wars LIGHT UP Chop SabersBecause you NEED chopsticks that look like light sabers. You know you do. Choose from blue or red, depending on which side of the galactic battle you’d prefer to channel. Star Wars LIGHT UP Chop Sabers R2-D2 Sauce DispenserBut of course, the next logical question will be, “Where am I going to store my soy sauce?” Why, in your droid, obvi! Because the R2-D2 Sauce Dispenser is a must for your next gathering. And despite the picture, you can store other sauces in R2. Olive oil, hot sauce, you name it. R2-D2 Soy Sauce Dispenser Put that little guy to work (he totally loves feeling useful). Star Wars Lightsaber BBQ TongsBarbecue like a boss with your very own Star Wars Lightsaber BBQ Tongs. Modeled after Darth’s elegant weapon of choice, the tongs come with a red cover to look just like a light saber in action, and a slide button gives you all the classic sound effects. What?! Happiest day of your life? I know. Light Saber BBQ Tongs Go ahead. Show that steak who’s in charge. Darth Vader Light Saber CandlestickAnd you thought the Lord Vader didn’t know anything about romance. Show her the softer side of your villainy with this mood-setting Darth Vader Light Saber Candlestick. Darth Vader Light Saber Candlestick It comes with three no drip red taper candles, so your nights will be well lit for some time to come. Star Wars Stackable MugsHave a little fun with your morning java when you serve it in these Star Wars Stackable Mugs. When not in use, the three mugs nest together and form complete pics of Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Random Stormtrooper Dude. Star Wars Stackable Mugs Of course, half the fun is mixin’ things up. So be sure to get creative in your display. Star Wars Salt and Pepper ShakersBecause. I simply can’t get enough of R2-D2. I think you should pour salt and pepper out of him (well, him and his little friend R2-Q5) too. Star Wars Droid Salt and Pepper Shakers Prefer something a little different? You can also season with the head of Darth Vader and Random Storm Trooper Guy. Star Wars Salt and Pepper Shaker — Darth Vader and Storm Trooper So grab the opportunity to stock up — for May the Fourth, Star Wars Weekends, Graduation Presents, or even get a jump on Christmas shopping! — by saving 20% TODAY! Which of these awesome items will you be adding to your collection? Leave a comment and share! 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 “Food Network Challenge: Star Wars Cakes” This Weekend News! Han Solo in Carbonite Popcorn Bucket Coming to Star Wars Weekends View the full article