Disney4me

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

Star Wars Weekends will kick off in just a few days and to celebrate we’re encouraging Disney Parks social media followers to share their “Star Wars Style” online for a chance to win a Walt Disney World Resort vacation. To enter, simply submit a photo of you showing off your best look inspired by the Star Wars franchise at www.StarWarsStyle.com. Entries will be accepted from May 4-June 1, 2015. The grand prize is a trip for two to the Walt Disney World Resort, plus a Star Wars gift basket, exclusive to the Disney Parks. Eight semifinalists will also receive special Star Wars merchandise gift baskets. Click here to see the official rules. Share Your ‘Star Wars Style’ for a Chance to Win a Trip to Walt Disney World Resort by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

With so many exciting changes coming when the new Grizzly Peak Airfield opens May 15 at Disney California Adventure park, I bet you’re curious about the location formerly known as Fly n’ Buy. Wonder no more! Humphrey’s Service & Supplies will be the “campers welcome” headquarters of Grizzly Peak – that type of small-town gas station, general store or “vacationer’s paradise” that you might find on a trip through California’s majestic Sierra Nevada mountains. The location is named for Humphrey the Bear, a scruffy, snack-loving bear who appeared in several Disney animated shorts in the 1950s. I recently had the opportunity to catch up with Walt Disney Imagineering show writer Carolyn Gardner, who had this to say about the new location: “Humphrey’s Service & Supplies is an homage to the roadside stops of the late 1950s and early 1960s when families packed up the station wagon and set out on vacation. My family took long trips like that, and in the summer, we rolled down all the windows because our station wagon didn’t have air conditioning. When we’d spot a gas station, dad would fill up the car and we kids would run to pick out a cold drink from the soda machine. First thing I’d do was put that icy cold glass bottle on my forehead and neck, just to cool off.” Humphrey’s Service & Supplies will have all the ‘bear’ necessities you’ll need for a day trip, or even a hike through the Disneyland Resort. Happy campers will find gear for their Junior Rangers, as well fleece and hats, or if you’re more apt to ‘bear’ (or bare) your shoulders, there’s even a tank top. Hunting for more? Keep an eye out for camping essentials themed to the great outdoors including a thermos, lunchbox, lantern and card games. Also opening with Grizzly Peak Airfield on May 15 will be Soarin’ Over California, with updates to its screen and projection system. Don’t miss this visually enhanced guest favorite! Humphrey’s Service & Supplies Sets Up Shop When Grizzly Peak Airfield Opens May 15 at Disney California Adventure Park by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Each of our Villas help you personalize your Disney Vacation Club experience, but we know it's the magic you bring to Disney Vacation Club that makes your vacations especially unique! http://di.s...From:Disney ParksViews:30148ratingsTime:01:23More inTravel & Events

The Disney Cruise Line fleet was named among the top 10 “Best Cruise Ships for Families” in the USA Today 10 Best Reader’s Choice poll, with the Disney Dream taking the top honor. A panel of USA Today editors and industry experts selected the 20 top nominees, and families like you voted the top 10 ships from the list. It’s no secret that Disney Parks destinations cater to kids and kids at heart. But it’s the touches like rotational dining, roomy staterooms, family-friendly entertainment, half a deck dedicated to youth activities on each ship – the list could go on – that make sailing with Disney Cruise Line a memorable and hassle-free experience for all. Why do you think Disney has the best ships for families? All Four Disney Cruise Ships Recognized by USA Today Readers by Rebecca Peddie: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Have you taken your photo yet with the Anna and Elsa topiaries at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival? It’s this year’s must-have selfie or photo spot. And we have two former Horticulture interns to thank. Let me explain … When our creative experts in Horticulture decided to design Anna and Elsa in plant and flower form, they needed models to help create the frames that serve as the foundation for the topiaries. Sarah Lanners, a senior at the University of Minnesota Crookston, and Jordan McGee, a senior at Stephen F. Austin State University, worked with our Horticulture team during the summer. They were asked to be the pose models for the royal sisters. “I was absolutely thrilled to represent the ‘Frozen’ princess,” Sarah said. “I was thrilled! I love ‘Frozen’!” Jordan told me. “I have always been partial to Anna. She may not have super powers, but … she has a beautiful amount of faith in herself and her sister.” You can see from the photo how Sarah and Jordan had to pose in a Horticulture workroom. You can imagine, a lot of technology and steps go into concept, to creation of a model, to the creation of a topiary – and both Sarah and Jordan told me they found the whole process fascinating. “In my own geeky horticulture way I instantly thought about how I would inadvertently be a Disney Princess in the most coolest way possible and that as long as this topiary is a part of Disney then so am I,” Sarah said. “This is something that most would consider a dream come true.” “I was thrilled to do my small part in supporting ‘Frozen,’” Jordan said. “Being sculpted in plants is the coolest thing ever!” Head to the entrance to World Showcase and check out the royal sisters from Arrendelle … and thanks Sarah and Jordan, and the Horticulture team! Behind the Scenes: Creating Anna & Elsa Topiaries for the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival by Victoria Lim: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

A bomb threat prompted the evacuation of students at Winter Springs High School early Monday, officials said. View the full article

University plans for campus while they wait for state dollars University plans for campus while they wait for state dollars View the full article

Universal Orlando drove impressive performance at parent Comcast Corp., the company reported Monday – and executives told investors to expect much more development of hotels and new attractions there. View the full article

Being a long-time fan of Star Wars, I love visiting Disney Parks on May 4. This annual, fan-proclaimed “Star Wars Day” is a great day to ride Star Tours – The Adventures Continue with other fans who grew up in the Star Wars universe like I did. Here is a quick look at some commemorative items we’ve created to celebrate this day-long celebration at Disney Parks on May 4. This year, fans will find two T-shirts – one with Jedi Mickey for “May the 4th” and one with Goofy dressed as Darth Vader for “Revenge of the 5th.” The same artwork was used on two limited edition pins. A matching water bottle will be released in Florida only. A new 9-inch plush of an Ewok named Teebo will be released in both California and Florida that day. Guests in Florida will find two open edition MagicBands at Disney’s Hollywood Studios with stylized images of Luke Skywalker and a Stormtrooper. Each will have a retail of $19.95; they both can be “linked later” making them great gifts. I’m also excited to share that we will release the Second Edition Star Wars headphones by SMS Audio, the official headphones of Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. This second series depicts fan favorite themes such as Tie Fighter, Chewbacca, R2-D2 and Darth Vader. These headphones will only be found at Tatooine Traders in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Finally, we will release an “I Am Your Father’s Day” shirt on the Disney Parks online store from May 4-10 at DisneyStore.com/ParkEvents. Please allow 3-5 weeks for delivery. At Disneyland Resort, guests should look for the T-shirts and plush at The Star Trader in Disneyland park. The pins will be carried at Little Green Men Store Command in Disneyland park and at Disney’s Pin Traders in Downtown Disney District. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort, guests should visit the following locations to find select items: Tatooine Traders, Mickey’s of Hollywood, Beverly Sunset and Studio Prop Shop. May the 4th Be With You! Commemorative ‘May the 4th’ Items Coming to Disney Parks for Star Wars Fans on May 4 by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The Coolest Summer Ever just wouldn’t be complete without your favorite Disney “Frozen” friends and their enchanting entertainment offerings. “Frozen” Summer Fun makes its majestic return to Disney’s Hollywood Studios on June 17. You can once again enjoy the huge, frosty fun entertainment—with all-new offerings! This year, you can cool off with Olaf as he appears in his own show, Olaf’s Summer Cool Down, on the event stage. Everyone’s favorite snowman will also be joining the “Frozen” Royal Welcome on Hollywood Blvd. A new float—inspired by Elsa’s ice palace—has been added to the procession. Plus, it will now run twice daily, doubling your chances to catch Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, Olaf and their Arendelle friends. Of course, For the First Time in Forever: A “Frozen” Sing-Along Celebration will also return. Reed Jones, Director of Creative Development for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment, told us one of his favorite sights “is going to the sing-along and watching the audience. The kids know all the words. They stand up and do the arm movements, just like Elsa. They really get into it. I’ve even seen a few dads singing along!” For the First Time in Forever: A “Frozen” Sing-Along Celebration moves to a new home during the Coolest Summer Ever in the Hyperion Theater in the park’s Center Stage area. Also look for some new special effects that just might surprise you! And when the sun dips behind the horizon? Enjoy the high-energy DJ Dance Party and the sky-high “Frozen” fireworks spectacle that lights up the night. “‘Frozen’ was such a phenomenal hit. People really connected with the story, the characters and the music,” Reed says. “And they love immersing themselves in that world when they come here to Walt Disney World Resort.” As tremendous as the guest response to all this magic has been, Reed—who’s responsible for the overall creative direction for “Frozen” Summer Fun and other entertainment experiences in the parks—and his team are not about to rest on their laurels. “We’re constantly looking for ways to enhance our entertainment and give guests better and better experiences.” Chilling, thrilling and fulfilling, there’s snow doubt about it. You’ll smile. You’ll sing. You’ll Let It Go and share all these cherished memories with your loved ones. It may be the Coolest Summer Ever with “Frozen” Summer Fun, but it’s sure to warm your heart. Summer is the Best Time to Stay ‘Frozen’ at Disney’s Hollywood Studios by Russ J. Stacey: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

It’s time once again to look in on one of my favorite “hidden” spots in Epcot — Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar! Learn About: Tutto GustoEpcot Restaurants Disney World RestaurantsTutto Gusto, located on the left as you travel through the Italy Pavilion toward Via Napoli at the back, hasn’t been open for very long. But in the short span of three years, Tutto Gusto has become a part of the fabric of World Showcase. With its commitment to offering small plates that feature authentic Italian cuisine, Tutto Gusto has continued to be a DFB favorite. But you know me — I’m never content to continue recommending a spot unless I know for sure that it still  deserves to be recommended! So, in the name of research, a friend and I headed there to grab a light dinner during a recent visit to Walt Disney World. We tried some new things and revisited some favorites. Let’s check it out. AtmosphereAlthough the sign for Tutto Gusto is perched high and prominent, it’s still sort of easy to miss it if you aren’t looking for it. You may mistake it for another entrance to neighboring Tutto Italia, if you notice it at all. Tutto Italia and Gusto Wine Cellar The entrance sits back a little, but Cast Members are usually flanking the door, and you’ll also notice the menus posted outside. Pay attention and you’ll find it. Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar Walk in and (after your eyes adjust to the darkened area) you’ll notice that the bar is front and center, serving as the small venue’s main feature. Gusto Bar Wine is king here, but you’ll also find an increasingly interesting array of Italian craft beers. Tutto Gusto also offers a full liquor bar. Check out the Italian-inspired cocktail menu, or order your favorite. Whatever you’re looking for, they can make it. Gusto Bar Because this is a wine bar, however, much of the real estate is given over to vino. Amuse yourself as you wait by checking out the ever-changing variety of Italian wines that are available by the glass or bottle. Wine Fridge Wine Fridge But Tutto Gusto has more to offer than just beverages. From the get go, I prized this spot for their amazing array of small plates. There’s a display of some of the offerings to whet your appetite. Antipasti Showcase at Tutto Gusto As is usually the case when you’re dining anywhere in the Disney universe, be sure to look up! The details of a spot usually include some really cool lighting, and Gusto is no exception. Wine Bottle Lighting You will find that Tutto Gusto can reach capacity rather easily — hence those Cast Members stationed at the doors. There isn’t a ton of seating here, but what you do find is rustic, cozy, and fairly comfortable. It is a little “close”, however, so if you prize privacy or personal space, you may want to look at the couch options. Gusto Table Speaking of…you’ll find more comfy seating flanking the fireplace, another nice focal point in the small space. Gusto Fireplace Area Tables and stools here are low and well padded. It’s a great place to relax and catch up with friends, or to just take a breather from the bright sunshine. Fireplace Area Seating at Tutto Gusto And it truly is a beautiful location. Personally, I think they hit the themeing out of the park. Don’t you love the brick ceiling? Tutto Gusto Seating Having shown you around, I’m ready to get down to the serious business of enjoying myself here. Let’s check out the menu. EatsThe first order of business for me (well, after we decided on drinks!) was to see what was new, what was gone, and what was different. The Gusto Plates on the left side are small plates that are meant for sharing, and they were pretty much exactly the same as our last visit. Tutto Gusto Menu — Click to Enlarge We definitely saw some differences on the right side, though. We’ll talk through those in just a minute. To begin — when in Rome, right? Or at least, when in an Italian wine bar…well, you should order some wine! And so, we decided to check out The Grand Tour Flight. The Grand Tour — Click to Enlarge This flight offers maximum variety and is a lot more than the flights you normally encounter. Twice the size, in fact. When you order The Grand Tour, you’ll enjoy 6 2-ounce pours. Not too much for one person, but I’d definitely pace myself if I were ordering this one alone. The Grand Tour Description Up Close — Click to Enlarge Consider though — if you and your friend (or partner or spouse, etc.) don’t mind sharing glasses, this is a fantastic way to sample a broad range of Italian wines. As the menu card says, this flight is more than a tasting. It takes you on a journey, and you’re likely to learn a thing or two. The Grand Tour Wine Flight But as I mentioned before, if wine isn’t your thing, there’s still room for you at the Tutto Gusto table. Craft beer lovers should absolutely pencil in a stop either here or at Via Napoli when visiting Epcot. You’ll find lots of craft beers, plus some familiar favorites. The selection here changes frequently, so be sure to inquire about it. Cocktails are interesting, too. You’ll find lots that feature Italian Spirits. Bitters like Campari and Cynar are particularly popular. It was time to turn our attention to the food we had ordered. We began our tour of Italy with the L’Apina Gusto Plate. The menu indicates that the cheese selections are from Northern Italy, which borders Switzerland — one of my favorite places in the world! The fontina and La Tur were amazing. L’Alpina Gusto Plate — Fontina Valdostana, La Tur, Gorgonzola Cremificato Next, we moved onto a selection of two Panini. It is important here to discuss the definition of panini versus what we have come to regard as panini in the U.S. These are “small bread sandwiches” — and they are small — containing different combinations. They are not served warm. You can choose a platter with one or two, and they’re served with a small (but rich) Caesar Salad Wedge. We opted to go with one panini I’d had before — the Fontina and Salametto — and it was just as delicious this time. But we also tried a new-to-us choice, the Carciofi (Artichoke) and Fontina. The creamy, strong flavor of the Fontina was luxurious against the bright flavor of the marinated Artichoke. This was a winner, and a great vegetarian option. “But AJ, that’s three helpings of Fontina you’ve had so far.” Yep. Panini — Carciofi and Fontina, Fontina and Salametto I was sorely disappointed to see that one of the best dishes I’d ever experienced at Disney — the Cannelloni — was off the menu. Gone! How, how does the chef sleep at night, having made this decision?? But we picked ourselves up and moved on, and decided to give two new dishes a try. We started with the Ravioli di Ricotta. The Cheese Ravioli is served with a Parmesan Cream Sauce containing Chicken and Prosciutto. The salty, creamy combo was awesome. Ravioli di Ricotta There was also a new Cavatappi option to savor, so we ordered the Cavatappi Ragu d’Agnello. While there was nothing that really made this dish stand out, I appreciated the well balanced sauce, and the addition of Lamb brought a little more flavor to the party than a ragu made with beef. Cavatappi Ragu d’Agnello We decided that we wanted a little sweet ending. I went with the Tiramisu. Very traditional in presentation, I enjoyed the rich Mascarpone filling in this one. This was a teensy tiny portion, FYI, but it was meant to be, and the price wasn’t significant. Tiramisu We also opted for Cheesecake. It was nothing particularly interesting, but offered a pleasant enough sweet note to end the meal on. The Macerated Strawberries were a nice touch. Cheesecake And then we chatted, and lingered, and kept nibbling at the eats even though we were both full, and decided that this was yet another terrific Tutto Gusto experience. OverallBecause, well, it was. I usually have very good experiences at Tutto Gusto. Now, in line with the rest of the Italy Pavilion eateries, Tutto Gusto is a bit pricey. Don’t think that you’re going to dine here, enjoy small plates, and save yourself a buck or two. Your cost will likely compete with other sit down options. And they don’t accept the Disney Dining Plan, so keep that in mind. Also, service can be a bit slow and/or inattentive. Which is often what I encounter everywhere at the Italy pavilion, so that’s just par for the course. In spite of these drawbacks, Tutto is a winner in my book. When I visit Walt Disney World, the trips tend to be packed full and somewhat hectic. But scheduling a stop here reminds me to take a few minutes to relax and enjoy. Now it’s your turn! Do you love Tutto Gusto as much as I do? Leave a comment and tell me your thoughts! 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: Review: Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar in Epcot’s Italy Pavilion Guest Review: Tutto Gusto in Epcot’s Italy Pavilion Guest Review: Complimentary Wine Seminar at Tutto Gusto in Epcot’s Italy View the full article

Discouragement is mounting for polluted Lake Apopka, which is ruined beyond rescue by any known fix that's affordable or timely. View the full article

About 10 years ago, when ambitious land speculators envisioned Bella Collina in southeastern Lake County as an Isleworth in the hills, an exclusive residential community of million-dollar homes for senior executives, movie stars and professional athletes, Plaza Collina was something of a vision,... View the full article

Tiger Woods and Lindsey Vonn are no longer a power couple in American sports. View the full article

A slew of UCF football players are headed to NFL teams as free agents this spring, including receivers Rannell Hall, Josh Reese and cornerback Jacoby Glenn. Hall and Reese will report to the Tampa Bucs rookie mini-camp while Glenn reports to the Chicago Bears. View the full article

One man is dead and three people seriously injured following a stabbing outside Apopka on Sunday morning, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Office. View the full article

SAN FRANCISCO -- Lindsey Vonn says she and Tiger Woods have decided to end their three-year relationship. View the full article

Although the official start of hurricane season is still almost a month away, the first storm might form later this week. View the full article

Six days after the death of Freddie Gray sparked riots in Baltimore, the city's mayor lifted a citywide curfew on Sunday morning, signaling an end to the extraordinary measures taken to ensure public safety amid an outcry over police practices. View the full article

Former rap mogul Marion “Suge” Knight may end up being one of the big winners of Saturday's Floyd Mayweather Jr.-Manny Pacquiao fight. View the full article

Orlando police are asking for help in locating a missing person who had been threatening to harm himself. View the full article

Secrets are hiding behind costumed characters, parade floats and fireworks extravaganzas of Central Florida's theme parks. View the full article