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Enthusiastic fans of Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar at the Disneyland Hotel are celebrating the soft opening March 28 of the East Coast version. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is located off the main lobby of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort; the adjacent Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace offers views of the marina and Seven Seas Lagoon. Official opening is set for late April, when the coveted Tiki souvenir glassware arrives. (Tiki fans go bananas for the collectible mugs.) As soon as the official date is set, we will share on the Disney Parks Blog. GalleryMuch-Anticipated Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Opens at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort view allFounded by Adventureland’s famous “head” salesman, Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto has some similarities to the Anaheim original. But at Walt Disney World Resort, the magical theming reflects its new resort location. This enchanted South Seas hideaway welcomes guests to explore a menu of “magical tropical drinks and food,” and while this new version shares a few cocktails and small plates, Beverage Manager Brad Ward, Chef Lenny DeGeorge, and the Concept Development team have created new menu items just for the Walt Disney World Resort Trader Sam’s. The famous Trader Sam cocktails, available in Disney collectible Tiki mugs, are a mix of old and new. We won’t share ingredients, but the names might give away the concoctions. Only at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto: Polynesian PearlNautilusCastaway CrushTahitian TorchDark & Tropical StormyFavorites imported from Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar: Krakatoa Punch Uh-Oa! HippopotoMai-TaiShrunken Zombie HeadAnd there are Sam’s No-Booze Brews: Schweitzer FallSkipper SipperPolynesian PunchSmall bites are on the menu, with a couple inspired by the Disneyland Trader Sam’s menu – the chicken lettuce cups with hoisin ginger sauce and the Hawaiian poke with Sriracha aioli and wonton chips. New to the Walt Disney World Resort menu are kalua pork tacos with shredded cabbage and pickled vegetables; pan-fried dumplings with soy-sesame dipping sauce; roasted chicken and pork pâté bánh mì sliders with pickled vegetables; salmon oshizushi (press sushi); corn-battered Portuguese sausages with curry ketchup and a Headhunter Sushi Roll. The lounge has 50 seats inside and 82 on the patio. No reservations are required. Much-Anticipated Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Opens at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

As a casting recruiter, Steven Warkentin brings magic to our guests through hiring our future magic-makers. In fact, he’s held a number of the positions for which he hires including roles in attractions, entertainment and custodial guest services. Steven says, “I get to offer jobs to candidates who are going to help carry on Walt Disney’s legacy in this special place where the magic started. Who knows? I could be hiring our next Disney Ambassador. I think that’s pretty amazing!” Steven shares more about his role and tips for applying at the Disneyland Resort in this “Every Role a Starring Role!” Every Role a Starring Role: Disneyland Resort Casting Recruiter by Kevin Rafferty, Jr.: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

From:Disney ParksViews:4686154ratingsTime:02:46More inTravel & Events

As part of our new “Room with A View” series, we’re heading into the woods for a special look at our “over the treetop” accommodations at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. Perched 10 feet off the ground in a lush landscape, sit the beloved Treehouse Villas, part of the Disney Vacation Club. I treasure the peaceful stillness of the landscape and the tranquil views of the Sassagoula River. It takes you to a quiet place and makes you feel like you are a hundred miles from the theme parks, when you are actually just a boat ride away from Downtown Disney. There are 60 rustic, home away-from-homes with lots of privacy and extra space ideal if you’re traveling with a large family, or have an extended stay. And who doesn’t love the idea of sleeping in a treehouse? I was so psyched when they opened in 2009, I took my family there for a weekend getaway. Imagine staying at a lakeside cabin in an upstate New York state park – albeit a fancy cabin with four TVs and granite counters. The experience is a nice pause from the hectic pace of daily life. Inside the three-bedroom villas (photos and video from villa 7026), earth-tone colors, wood accents and natural light streaming in through floor-to-ceiling windows complement the rustic retreat. Nature is woven in the artwork and furniture in creative ways — like a tree branch as the base for a lamp, leafy pillows and a family-size wooden kitchen table, bench and chairs. A Hidden Mickey can be spotted in an end table created by three tree stumps. All the treehouses have two guestrooms with two queen-size beds each, and a room for the kids with bunk beds. There’s also a full kitchen in case you want to cook, contemporary amenities and a nice-size living area, which really makes it feel like home. The oversized porch is another gem and the ideal place to kick back, watch the sunset and take in the amazing view. Bird’s-Eye View In a Rustic Retreat at Saratoga Springs Treehouse Villas at Walt Disney World Resort by Michelle Baumann: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

As part of our new “Room with A View” series, we're heading into the woods for a special look at our “over the treetop” accommodations at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa....From:Disney ParksViews:631681ratingsTime:01:14More inTravel & Events

Back in January, I had the unique experience of cooking with the hosts of Food Network’s “The Kitchen.” If you saw the episode, you may remember their excitement when I invited them to sail with me on a Disney cruise. Not only did Jeff Mauro and Katie Lee take me up on that offer, they brought two other Food Network stars – Amanda Freitag (“Chopped”) and Melissa d’Arabian (“Guy’s Grocery Games”) – along with their families and friends for three nights of fun, sun, and delicious food. Tonight, Food Network is showing a one-hour special featuring this crew’s Disney Dream cruise. Onboard we took them behind the scenes to see the inner workings of the ship’s galleys, slightly larger than the kitchens where they are used to cooking! Now, you can get a glimpse at their backstage experience and learn more about the culinary masterpieces our talented chefs prepare every day. Here’s a sneak peek at what you can expect: Check it out tonight at 8 p.m. ET. Be on the lookout for some familiar faces, including Cruise Director Christiaan, Remy Executive Chef Patrick and a few Disney pals! Behind the Scenes: Food Network Hosts Cruising on the Disney Dream by Stephen Walker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Food Network is showing a one-hour special featuring Jeff Mauro, Katie Lee, Amanda Freitag and Melissa d'Arabian on the Disney Dream! Onboard we took them behind the scenes to see the inner...From:Disney ParksViews:267051ratingsTime:01:11More inTravel & Events

UPDATE: News today from Disney states that Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto should be opening officially in late April. As Disney fans and DFB readers know well by now, plenty of changes have come to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort over the past several months of major resort-wide refurbishment. New Tiki Statue in Lobby For Disney food fans, perhaps none of the openings have met with as much anticipation as the eagerly awaited Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto! All sorts of signs (some of them literal!) are pointing to its imminent opening! Updated Dining Sign with Trader Sam’s Updated Dining Location Direction Sign with Trader Sam’s Of course, no sign is more telling than the one on the door to the Grotto itself… Trader Sam’s door sign Other signs are less obvious, but bring to mind the nautical theme that we’ve been told to expect for the east coast version of Trader Sam’s, influenced by 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Guests can now see the painting below and oars lining the hallway that starts at Captain Cook’s on the ground floor of the Great Ceremonial House and leads to Trader Sam’s. Submarine Grotto Painting Oars lining the wall Oar on the wall So, what else do we know? So far, at least five adult beverages will be unique to the Disney World location, including the Castaway Crush, Polynesian Pearl, Tahitian Torch, and the Dark & Tropical Stormy. As is the case at its Disneyland counterpart — Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar — souvenir cups will be one of the highlights. In fact, Disney shared a few glimpses of the new sure-to-be-collectibles today! ©Disney ©Disney Indoor seating in the Grog Grotto and outdoor seating on the Tiki Terrace will be available to guests. Special interactive decor elements will be entertaining the folks inside. Order a drink and watch what happens! Food will also be available, and we understand that Pork Pâté Bánh Mì Sliders, Sushi, Hawaiian Poke, Kalua Pork Tacos and Corn-battered Portuguese Sausages will be among the offerings. Here’s a peek! Pork Pâté Bánh Mì Sliders ©Disney Headhunter Sushi Roll ©Disney Kalua Pork Tacos ©Disney Details that we’re waiting to confirm include operating hours (it looks like 4 pm – midnight daily, with only guests 21 and over permitted after 8 pm). And also — the biggest question of all — the opening date! While soft openings are expected to begin on March 28th (which essentially means that you may catch the lounge in operation, but it may be closed at any given time to continue any necessary work), Disney has announced that late April will bring the official opening. Still, much of what awaits remains a mystery… and that’s very much on purpose, as you can tell from this understated door, giving no hint to the treasures that lie behind it. Trader Sam’s door Oh, and there was one other sign placed on the door yesterday, greeting hopeful passersby. Sorry Folks! I must’ve missed the memo from this guy… Cephalopod in the Boutiki Window We’ll see you soon… from inside the GROG GROTTO!!! What are YOU looking forward to most about Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto? 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: News! Trader’s Sam’s Grog Grotto is Coming to Walt Disney World’s Polynesian Resort! News and Sneak Peek: Check Out the Drinks Coming to Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto! More Details of Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Revealed at…Disneyland!? View the full article

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We’re less than one week away from the grand opening of Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, the newest Disney Vacation Club property at Walt Disney World Resort. When completed, the resort will feature 360 Deluxe Studios, as well as 20 over-the-water Bora Bora Bungalows offering private decks complete with personal plunge pools and views of the Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom Park area. Guests staying the Bungalows will be able to watch Magic Kingdom Park fireworks from their back decks (complete with the fireworks soundtrack pumped in for their listening pleasure), as well as the Electrical Water Pageant. Check out the view! GalleryDisney Parks After Dark view allThis photo, shot last week, truly captures the beauty of this timeless nighttime parade combined with the classic South Pacific styling of our newest resort addition. To read more about the Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, visit the stories below: Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows are Designed with Your Needs in MindA Secret Sleeper Bed at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & BungalowsDisney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows Offers Up Comfort and Extra SpaceNew Details Announced for Disney’s Polynesian Villas & BungalowsDisney Parks After Dark: View of the Electrical Water Pageant from New Bora Bora Bungalows at Walt Disney World Resort by Amanda Adler: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

WASHINGTON — Florida is projected to become the first state in the nation to close the wage gap between men and women — but it will take more than two decades. View the full article

Last month, on her 90th birthday, Irene Jewell, legendary dancer and wife of Disney cinematographer Stuart Jewell, visited Disneyland park for the first time. Known for her impressive height, Irene performed under the name Ricki Covette in the course of her 30-year career. She later met Disney cinematographer Stuart Jewell, known for his camera work on Disney’s “True-Life Adventures,” including “The Living Desert” and “The Vanishing Prairie.” He also produced much of the now-iconic time-lapse footage from the construction of Disneyland. But despite her own legendary status and connection to Disneyland history, Irene had never visited the park! So she thought her 90th birthday would be the perfect occasion. Irene arrived with her “Special Complimentary Main Gate Admission” ticket in hand, which she held onto for years. (She got to keep it, by the way.) She went on to enjoy a day of fun, including Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean and “it’s a small world” – three attractions she had specifically been looking forward to. When I asked whether Stuart has shared any of his Disneyland memories with her, Irene said, “He told me about opening day – they didn’t expect so many people! It was getting crowded, so he grabbed a camera and took a picture of Ronald Reagan, Bob Cummings and Art Linkletter that appeared in the paper.” If you’d like to see some of Stuart Jewell’s work, take a look at this time-lapse video, which we shared earlier this week. In the first few seconds, you can even see Stuart and his team prepping and installing the cameras! Irene Jewell Celebrates 90th Birthday with First Visit to Disneyland Park by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

OK — so you have a Walt Disney World Trip on the books for this year — Woohoo!! There’s nothing more exciting than counting down the days to when you’ll be back in the ‘World! But, even the most spontaneous Disney fan knows that planning ahead is the key to a stress-less vacay. And that mantra is absolutely true when it comes to dining. I know, I know. It’s hard to know what you’ll want to do in 3, 6, or even 12 months down the road. But knowledge is power! And when you know all about your choices, you can turn a great trip into a fantastic one! Besides, if you really want to dine in the hottest restaurants, you pretty much have to plan ahead. Be spontaneous, sure. But get a couple Advance Dining Reservations in place. But which ones? That’s where Disney Food Blog comes in! You already enjoy our reviews, news, and tips daily on our Blog. But did you know — that’s JUST the tip of the iceberg. Because we have lots more to share with you in our complete line of DFB Guides. Want to see the last petal drop at Be Our Guest Restaurant? Planning ahead is key! If you’re ready for a fun, easy way to personalize eating and drinking your way through Disney, then check out the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 e-Book. The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015Fully updated for your 2015-2016 adventures, the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 e-Book is an instantly downloadable PDF guide, featuring over 490 full-color pages of photographs, information, and advice about our favorite subject — Disney foooood! So you save time and money as you enjoy planning one of the most important parts of your trip. And to thank all of you for your support of DFB, we are offering extra savings on our most popular DFB Guide today. Just enter promo code 2015 at checkout and you’ll save $4 off of our cover price of the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 e-Book! But if you’d like to enjoy even more detail, check out another great offer. DFB Everything Bundle SALE!Want even more great information, pictures, and tips? Then the DFB Everything Bundle may be just the right fit for you. And to get you ready for that next big trip, we are offering the DFB Everything Bundle for $15 off the already low price! It’s like getting an entire book for free. Just enter promo code Everything15 at checkout to take advantage of this offer. The Everything Bundle includes, well, Everything! When you purchase this special bundle of DFB Guides, you’ll get it all: The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2015 EditionThe Updated DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks The Updated DFB Guide to Epcot SnacksThe Updated DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios SnacksA Pre-Order of the 2015 DFB Guide to the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, and the 2014 Edition for FREE as an immediate downloadA Pre-Order of the 2015 DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays, and the 2014 Edition for FREE as an immediate downloadDFB Dining AdventuresThat’s every book in our collection of critically-acclaimed DFB Guides. And with the convenient e-book format, you can load your books onto as many electronic devices as you want. Have them at your fingertips, ready to plan and take with you into the Parks. Just download and off you go! The DFB Everything Bundle is already a terrific bargain at well below 40% off the individual prices of the books, but we’re excited to offer you these additional savings for a limited time. Enter promo code Everything15 at checkout to take advantage of this offer. Shop in confidence, knowing that all of our DFB Guides are 100% guaranteed. As always, we thank you for your continued support of Disney Food Blog! We couldn’t do this without all of you! 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: Grand Launch Sale! DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2015 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-Book: Pre-Order the 2015 Edition and Get the 2014 Edition FREE! Grand Launch Sale! The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2013 e-Book View the full article

Recently in a kingdom not so far away, more than 24,000 Princesses and Princes made a 13.1-mile journey through Magic Kingdom Park and Epcot at the Disney Princess Half Marathon presented by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Some runners took just over an hour to complete their journey, and for others it took a little longer. No matter their ability they all followed the same path, triumphantly ran through Cinderella Castle, celebrated at the finish line, earned the coveted Disney Princess Tiara Finisher Medal and created runDisney memories that will last a lifetime. What was their experience like? With the help of 6 photographers from the Disney Yellow Shoes team, 13 cameras and tens of thousands of images, we can share their journey in just over two minutes. Once upon a time …… A special thanks to Disney photographers David Roark, Matt Stroshane, Kent Phillips, Ryan Wendler, Chloe Rice, Todd Anderson, and editor Bryan Smoker for their creativity in bringing this story to life. For more information on runDisney event weekends, I invite you to visit runDisney.com. Video Captures the Royal Experience of the Disney Princess Half Marathon at Walt Disney World Resort by Robert Hitchcock: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Once upon a time in a kingdom not so far away, more than 24000 Princesses and Princes made a 13.1-mile journey through Magic Kingdom Park and Epcot at the Disney Princess Half Marathon ...From:Disney ParksViews:7707116ratingsTime:02:35More inTravel & Events

I’m not sure what it feels like in your neck of the woods, but the calendar says it’s officially SPRING! And the season is ON at Walt Disney World, with new food items to help feed those spring break crowds (did somebody say “Grilled Cheese”?), as well as an egg-stra special Easter display at the Grand Floridian Resort. But that’s not all! There’s much more in store… so let’s hop to it, as we take another trip around the World to see What’s New! MAGIC KINGDOMBe Our Guest BreakfastHey, has anyone heard of some little dive by the name of Be Our Guest Restaurant? Be Our Guest in the First Light of Morning Well, in case you didn’t know about the Advance Dining Reservations heard ‘round the World, the popular restaurant is now open for BREAKFAST! Huge hits on the all-new prix fixe menu include the Open-Face Bacon and Egg Sandwich and the Croissant Doughnut. Open-Face Bacon and Egg Sandwich Croissant Doughnut and fresh fruit You can read our Opening Day Everything on the Menu review HERE! Sweet Treat MakeoversNot sure how long this gem will be around, but the Cinderella Coach Apple celebrating the recently released live-action “Cinderella” film sure is a beauty! Cinderella Coach Apple You can find it for a limited time at the Main Street Confectionery and Big Top Treats. (Keep an eye out at spots outside of Magic Kingdom like Goofy’s Candy Company and Sweet Spells, too!) A few of the Krispy Treats have joined in on the fun, as well… Cinderella Coach Apples and Krispy Treats Snack Location SwitcheroosLooking for your favorite Dole Whip or Citrus Swirl over in Adventureland? Citrus Swirl at Sunshine Tree Terrace Well, the homes for these beloved snacks have changed places. You see, Sunshine Tree Terrace — home of the Citrus Swirl — is now located where Aloha Isle used to be. And Aloha Isle, boasting its signature Dole Whip? It’s now located where Sunshine Tree Terrace used to be. New Aloha Isle location New Sunshine Tree Terrace location Confused? Fret not — you can read all about it here! Rumor has it that this all has something to do with a new restaurant on the horizon for Adventureland. (And what’s this we’re hearing about a possible Jungle Cruise theme?!) Time will surely tell! Speaking of location changes… If you’re hoping to enjoy a Jumbo Turkey Leg in Magic Kingdom, they’ll be available at Cool Ship in Tomorrowland starting TODAY. Cool Ship area Walt Disney World Turkey Leg This temporary move will allow for some regularly scheduled maintenance for the kitchens that provide the Turkey Legs to their typical locations in Frontierland and Liberty Square. They’ll return to their standard locations later this year. Fireworks PartyBooking has opened up for the new Wishes Fireworks Dessert Party. Wishes at Magic Kingdom Offering enhancements to what is currently the Tomorrowland Terrace Dessert Party, this new version of the party will debut on July 5th. (The final date of the Tomorrowland Terrace Dessert Party is the 4th of July.) Fun Test ItemWe tried some Cheeseburger Spring Rolls at the Adventureland Egg Roll Wagon! Adventureland Egg Roll Wagon Cross section of Cheeseburger Spring Rolls We’re not sure how long this test item will stick around, but we sure hope these tasty rolls make the cut! Magic Kingdom HubSome of the results of the Magic Kingdom hub construction are starting to be seen. Magic Kingdom Hub Magic Kingdom Hub Magic Kingdom Hub Magic Kingdom Hub The new strolling areas and fountains are beautiful, and while construction is still ongoing in other spaces around the hub, it’s wonderful to know guests have some more walking space in the area again. EPCOTTaste TrackOh, my… Gourmet Grilled Cheese has found its way to Future World!! Canadian Cheddar and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich You can find these grilled gems at Taste Track (a temporarily open location outside of Test Track)… but only while they last! Taste Track Taste Track Menu — Click to Enlarge The Gruyere and Applewood Smoked Bacon, Fontina and Tomato Basil, and Canadian Cheddar and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwiches recently made their appearance for the spring break crowds, but we hope to see them pop back up in busier seasons throughout the year! Gruyere and Applewood Smoked Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Side of Tomato Basil Soup Fontina and Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese Sandwich — Cross Section Sunshine SeasonsWe’ve also recently enjoyed (and by “enjoyed,” I mean “fell madly in love with”) the Warm Peanut Butter Brownie at Sunshine Seasons in The Land Pavilion. Warm Peanut Butter Brownie in the Container Warm Peanut Butter Brownie — Cross Section You know how in the movies, some underdog gives a great speech and it’s all quiet — ‘cuz NO ONE expected it — but then one person sloooowly starts clapping and then another, and before you know it there’s all this thunderous applause? I kinda feel like we should all virtually band together and do that for Future World in honor of these treats. But that’s not to say that World Showcase, as per usual, doesn’t have its own trick up its sleeve… La Cava del TequilaI know, I know… La Cava del Tequila comes up a LOT in “What’s New!” But that’s because they always seem to be introducing some incredible new concoction, and why should this round be any different? La Cava del Tequila Sign La Cava del Tequila entrance inside the Mexico Pavilion It seems the great team over at La Cava is trying out a new La Cava Mango Sangrita chaser for those ordering up a tequila shot… or two. Or… . It’s made with mango, pineapple, orange, and habanero. DOWNTOWN DISNEYDisney Food TrucksThere have been changes to some of the menus at the Disney Food Trucks. While Superstar Catering has kept its awesome Pot Roast Sandwich, one of its new offerings is in very good keeping with this truck’s Hollywood Studios theme. Superstar Catering Food Truck “A Taste of Disney’s Hollywood Studios” serves a tomato-based soup in honor of Sci-Fi Dine-In, along with Cobb Salad and Grapefruit Cake from The Hollywood Brown Derby. Also look for a Pork Shank served with mac & cheese and topped with smoked bacon, and a Sausage and Caramelized Onion Flatbread. Grapefruit Cake at Hollywood Brown Derby Fantasy Fare (home of Hand-dipped Corn Dogs here on the east coast) has added a snack to its offerings: Sweet Potato Tots with Fluff and Candied Pecan topping. Sounds like all the great taste of Sweet Potato Casserole, with all the fun of Tater Tots! Fantasy Fare Food Truck Sugar-dusted sweet potato nuggets And the Sticky Chicken and Waffles received a makeover: Now they are “Game Day Waffles,” served as Buffalo-style chicken with Sriracha maple and blue cheese sauce, served with cornbread waffles. Remember: your best shot at catching the trucks is at their home base at Exposition Park in Downtown Disney’s West Side, but keep an eye out in various areas of Downtown Disney (a popular spot is outside the World of Disney Store in the Marketplace) in case you don’t see the one you were hoping for! Raglan RoadA new brew has debuted at Raglan Road in honor of… Raglan Road! Say hello to Raglan Red. Brewed in Ireland for Raglan Road! RESORTSPolynesian Village ResortThe Mixed Greens Salad is back at ‘Ohana, replacing the Lettuce Wraps that have been available since last June. ‘Ohana sign ‘Ohana menu Oh, and what’s behind this mysterious door knob? Trader Sam’s door knob I guess we’ll find out soon enough, when Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto opens its doors at long last — anticipated to happen before month’s end! Grand FloridianAnd last — but certainly not least — guests can enjoy the Fourth Annual Grand Floridian Easter Eggs Display in the lobby of the Resort through April 10th. Cinderella’s Coach Egg Enchanted Rose Egg Peacock Egg Can’t make it to this year’s display of edible artistry? Keep an eye out for an upcoming post here on DFB featuring the full display soon! Thanks for joining us on this little springtime stroll… And until next time, Eat and Be Happy! Have you spotted anything new during a recent trip around the World? We’d love to hear about it in 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: What’s New Around Walt Disney World: March 3, 2015 What’s New Around Walt Disney World: March 19, 2014! “Is This Place Ever Open?”: Sunshine Tree Terrace View the full article

Daytona Beach Police said they arrested one of two shooters in a Feb. 23 gun fight that injured three people at Bethune-Cookman University. View the full article

A newspaper is reporting that the voice recorder indicates that one of the pilots of the German plane that crashed in the French Alps was locked out of the cockpit before the jetliner plummeted into a remote mountainside. View the full article

A southbound SunRail train was involved in a crash with a Ford Freestyle in Maitland this evening. View the full article

KISSIMMEE — Cowboys on horseback, a cattle drive and rodeo queens — the Ram National Circuit Finals Rodeo is officially in town. View the full article

There's no Quantum love for Florida as Royal Caribbean has announced the home for Ovation of the Seas, and it's in China. View the full article

Julie Lopez-Elias spent the last moments of her life trying to save her children as the car they were in sank to the bottom of a Kissimmee retention pond. View the full article

The family of an 11-year-old boy is suing the Publix grocery chain, saying the child was allergic to nuts and died from a severe reaction after eating a cookie despite a worker's assurance it was safe. View the full article

If you haven’t experienced all of the frozen fractals during “Frozen Fun” at Disney California Adventure park, there’s still time! Whether you’re planning a spring or early summer visit to the Disneyland Resort, or you want to see “Frozen Fun” before its limited-time engagement ends May 15, this new Disneyland Resort Hotel offer puts you closer to the magic. Make reservations at any Disneyland Resort hotel from March 25 through May 7, 2015, to save 20 percent on premium rooms and 15 percent on standard rooms on Sunday through Thursday nights from April 5 to June 16, 2015. Don’t let the “Frozen” fun and this great offer melt away! Click here for more details. Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room at the same hotel. Travel must be completed by 06/17/15. Ask about savings in other room types. Not valid on previously booked rooms. Advance reservations required. Subject to availability as the number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Excludes applicable fees and taxes. Limit two (2) rooms per reservation and five (5) people maximum per room. Not valid in combination with any other hotel discounts or offers. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Separate Theme Park admission required to enjoy “Frozen Fun” and the Parks. Enjoy ‘Frozen Fun’ Before it Melts Away and Stay Close to the Magic with Disneyland Resort Hotel Offer by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Two West Palm Beach men apparently got a hoot out of driving around with a wounded owl while they were purportedly drinking — and capturing it all on film, according to wildlife authorities. View the full article