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Cindy Andrews cheers from the stands of the CFE Arena as her group of students test the skills of their 76-pound robot. View the full article

Actor Nicholas Brendon faces new charges after a second disturbance at a Florida hotel. View the full article

Heriberto Montes-Ramos Jr. stopped his infant daughter's mother at the front door of their house when she returned from a quick errand the afternoon of Jan. 24. View the full article

If his friends back in Senegal could see him now, they would be a little confused. To them, Tacko Fall was just the lankiest kid in the neighborhood View the full article

The South Orange Little League, trying to recover after a board member allegedly stole $25,000 from its coffers, got help kicking off its opening day Saturday from a two-time MLB All-Star: Johnny Damon. View the full article

Police have released body-camera footage that shows the frantic rescue of an 18-month-old Utah girl from a car that had crashed into a frigid river 14 hours earlier. View the full article

A restroom at a Wal-Mart in eastern Indiana has been closed indefinitely after an employee discovered a working meth lab inside. View the full article

In 1985, First Baptist Orlando's sanctuary was state of the art: an orchestra lift that rose from beneath the stage, a soaring ceiling that lifted eyes toward the heavens, rows of pews capable of seating 6,000 as befitting one of Central Florida's first megachurches. View the full article

This week, Kevin Rafferty, Jr., showed us some fun ways that the Disneyland Resort is helping its local community in Southern California. In his recap of the recent 17th annual “Flashback,” Kevin told us how a record 500 Disneyland Resort cast members volunteered more than 39,000 hours of rehearsal time to produce the popular show, which raised $25,000 for ACT Anaheim (Accelerate Change Together). And in his post about the new Teaching Garden at Walt Disney Elementary School in Anaheim, Calif., Kevin gave us an update on this project in which Disney VoluntEARS joined students to enjoy the garden’s first harvest. GalleryStudents Harvest First Crop from Walt Disney Elementary School Teaching Garden Funded By Disneyland Resort view allWant to learn more about how the Disneyland Resort impacts its local community? Check out the Disneyland Resort in the Community Facebook page! This Week in Disney Parks Photos: Disneyland Resort in the Community by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Spring is sprung (well, some places, anyway), and Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe in Disneyland has a few new menu items to check out! Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe And you don’t even have to wait until March 20, when the new season officially begins. Jolly Holiday is already sporting the updated menu! Let’s take a peek at some sweet and savory treats. Mini bundt cakes are all the rage, and JH comes in with this adorable Strawberry Bundt Cake. A thick drizzle of Icing and a Glazed Strawberry are ideal Springtime garnishes. Stawberry Bundt Cake The bakery’s seasonal Crème Brûlée will feature ripe Raspberries. Raspberry Crème Brûlée Next up, they’ve got a Carrot Cake Cupcake with piped Cream Cheese Frosting. Sadly, it looks teensy tiny to me, and has one of those weird wrappers they’ve been doing over at Be Our Guest Restaurant in Disney World. They’re practically impossible to take off, so it’s really tough to eat these kinds of ‘cakes on the go. Carrot Cake Cupcake A Key Lime Cheesecake will also make its way into the cases at the bakery! We’re lookin’ a little slim on the graham cracker crust here — hoping that improves! Key Lime Cheesecake And of course, we can’t talk Jolly Holiday without highlighting their seasonal Mickey-shaped Macaron! Just in time for Spring (and St. Paddy’s Day!), the latest version is dressed in bright green, and flavored with Pistachio. Pistachio Mickey Macarons Whoopie Pies are some of my all-time favorite Jolly Holiday treats (a Chocolate Peanut Butter Whoopie Pie would SUPA AWESOME right now actually…). But this season’s option features those soft Brownie Cakes sandwiched together with White Chocolate Mousse. The Rainbow Sprinkles add a fun touch. Rainbow Whoopie Pies Also incoming is a new Opera Cake (also something that’s being seen on a lot of Disney menus right now), which features Sponge Cake flavored with Almond and soaked in a Coffee Syrup. Ganache, Coffee Buttercream, and Chocolate Glaze complete dessert. Opera Cake is not a dessert I usually enjoy (too much like tiramisu, without the best part of tiramisu — the mascarpone), but if you’re a fan, your day has come! Opera Cake Java also takes center stage in these Coffee Eclairs. Coffee Eclairs And it’s not all sweet stuff that’s new for Spring. After 10:30, enjoy some new savory options too, including a Roast Beef and Bleu Cheese Sandwich served on a Baguette, or take advantage of the returning Tuna Salad on Brioche. A Sun-Dried Tomato Caesar Salad gives you a healthy dose of leafy greens, while you can also enjoy a bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup. (Don’t worry; the Tomato Basil Soup will continue to be available as well.) Will you be enjoying some of these new treats this Spring at Disneyland’s Jolly Holiday? Leave a comment and tell us which one is your favorite! 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! A Spoonful of Sugar and Other Limited Time Treats Come to Disneyland’s Jolly Holiday Bakery Dining in Disneyland: Seasonal Treats at Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe Dining in Disneyland: New Treats at the Jolly Holiday Bakery View the full article

Once again, Disney Sports is showing its admiration for our U.S. military veterans by hosting a Military Appreciation Day during Atlanta Braves spring training at Walt Disney World Resort. Disney Sports is offering half-priced tickets on select seats for military personnel for the Braves game against the Washington Nationals on Saturday, March 21 at 1:05 p.m., at Champion Stadium at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. A military hero will throw out the ceremonial first pitch and fellow military personnel in attendance will be honored in variety of ways, including a sing-along Service Anthem Medley. At Disney, we recognize the sacrifice, dedication and bravery needed to serve our country honorably, so showing support for members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families is part of our nature at Disney Parks. For instance, our Heroes Work Here initiative has helped employ thousands of veterans and provided support for military families since it launched in 2012. So come on out to the ballpark next Saturday and salute our veterans during America’s pastime. It’s one of the best ways to get your spring off to a great start. Tickets are on sale now at the sports complex box office. Select seats can be purchased by military veterans at the special price with a valid Military ID. Military Heroes to be Honored at Braves Spring Training Game at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort by Darrell Fry: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Spring is in the air, and one of our most popular springtime events at Disneyland park is ready to make its return, with plenty of flowers and color and fun! Starting March 20, Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree in Frontierland will be all decked out for the annual Springtime Roundup. Some of your favorite Disney characters will be stopping by to meet you, along with Mr. Easter Bunny and a carrot patch of famous Disney rabbits – from Thumper to Roger! And several times each day, a group of dancing cowboys and cowgirls comes together for a lively hoedown and “bunny hop” that will get you off your feet and joining right in. Springtime Roundup brings all that excitement, plus fresh spring talent from Disney Performing Arts, egg decorating demonstrations, fun crafts, yummy treats and more. It kicks off March 20 at Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree and keeps going daily through April 12. After that, the fun continues on weekends through June 7, so hop on down the Big Thunder Trail and join us! Springtime Roundup Blooms Once Again at Disneyland Park by Shawn Slater: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Simplify your Walt Disney World vacation planning with the My Disney Experience app. Manage your must do attractions with FastPass+ through the My Disney Experience app! http://di.sn/60092ERb...From:Disney ParksViews:4893116ratingsTime:01:24More inTravel & Events

A Seminole County Sheriff's Office lieutenant accused of billing two homeowners associations for off-duty security work he never performed was arrested Friday. View the full article

A team of developers has submitted a plan for an eight-story boutique hotel, possibly a Hilton Curio, in front of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. View the full article

Are the Rolling Stones set for a visit to the Sunshine State? Billboards along I-4 are raising speculation, but offer little "satisfaction" for fans. View the full article

Can you believe it’s Friday the 13th, again?! Last month on this traditionally unlucky day, we celebrated Villaintine’s Day, and I shared with you the top places to spot villains on a Disney cruise. But this month I want to focus on good rather than evil and show you some the friendly faces you can see when sailing with us. The Fab Five: The gang’s all here! Starting with our special Sailing Away celebration, you’ll see these beloved friends up on stage, walking the decks, giving out hugs and lighting up faces throughout your entire cruise. Potential memorable moments with these guys are just one reason to have your camera handy at all times. Princesses: Calling all royalty! Heroines like Cinderella, Belle, Snow White, Aurora, Tiana and Ariel await your presence in the atrium lobby for our one-of-a-kind Princess Gatherings. Some of these special ladies also make appearances in our stage shows, singing tunes from your favorite Disney films and showing off their glittery gowns. Friends from Arendelle: Speaking of princesses, your two favorite royal sisters are now onboard all four ships, soon to be joined by their pal, Olaf. Plenty of warm hugs will be given, and come summer, these friends will delight Disney Magic and Disney Wonder cruisers during a spectacular “Frozen”-inspired celebration on deck.
 Intergalactic Heroes: The Force is strong with this one! Iconic characters from the Star Wars saga are joining us aboard eight sailings on the Disney Fantasy in 2016. During the day-long celebration, Star Wars Day at Sea, you’ll see them roaming the decks, converging on the deck stage for a special celebration, signing autographs and more. Pixar Pals: Your favorite characters from Pixar films are everywhere! You’ll spot them on stage, on screen, on deck and more. Some of our Pixar character highlights include “Toy Story – The Musical” in the Walt Disney Theatre, an atrium dance party in Alaska and humorous conversations with Crush in Animator’s Palate. Disney Junior: Jake and Sofia are two stars from Disney Junior bringing smiles to the faces of our littlest cruisers. One event your family won’t want to miss is our Disney Junior Pirate & Princess Dance Party where you can boogie to fun Disney Junior tunes, sometimes alongside this adventure-seeking pirate and adored princess in-training. Popular Pirates: Avast, me hearties! Jake isn’t the only well-liked pirate you’ll meet on your sailing. Captain Jack Sparrow can be spotted stumbling around Serenity Bay at Castaway Cay (Castaway Air Bar serves excellent rum!), and Mickey and his gang, including Chip and Dale, don their swashbuckling attire for our special pirate party night. Of course, that’s not all! Friends like Lilo and Stitch are up for fun all year long, and Santa Claus spreads cheer throughout the holiday season. Who are some of the other friendly faces you love to see on a Disney cruise? Friendly Faces on a Disney Cruise Trump Friday the 13th Woes by Jonathan Frontado: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Pi Day 2015 carries extra meaning, as the mathematical constant is commonly approximated as 3.14159 or sometimes as 3.14159265359. View the full article

South John Young Parkway has reopened after a suspicious package closed down several blocks and the off-ramp from Interstate 4 on Friday, Orange County Sheriff's Office said. View the full article

Great news for families who prefer to stick with healthy food options during their Disney adventures! Mickey Check Meals have now made their way to the entire fleet of Disney Cruise Line ships. The Mickey Check is an emblem that kids and adults can use on Disney menus to quickly identify meals that meet the Disney Nutrition Guidelines. Mickey Check Meals have been available throughout Walt Disney World and Disneyland. And now, you can add them to your Disney Cruise Line dining options as well. The use of the Mickey Check and the creation of healthy, nutritious meals continues the work of the Disney Magic of Healthy Living Initiative. The project works to provide nutritious options and kid-appropriate portions. Mickey Check Meal on Disney Cruise Lines Mickey Check Meals aim to provide three or more nutritious food groups, including vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. They also use recipes and ingredients that incorporate less sodium, sugar, and saturated and trans fats. While vacation is certainly a time to enjoy a few indulgences, it’s good to know that you have healthy options to offset more decadent choices. And really, isn’t healthy eating all about balance? How do you feel about Mickey Check Meals coming to the ships of Disney Cruise Line? Leave a comment and tell us if this is a welcome addition for you and your family! 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! ‘The Mickey Check’ Introduced at Walt Disney World and Disneyland News! Royal Court Royal Tea on Disney Cruise Line’s Fantasy Disney Cruise Line: Backstage in the Kitchen! View the full article

Do you remember our “over-the-top” gingerbread creations during the holidays? Well, those delicious works of art are creating quite a buzz during the 22nd Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. Your favorite Disney gingerbread houses from the Walt Disney World Resort are shared with bees to help pollinate the spectacular flowers blooming right now at Epcot. And we “Spring into Spring” today with special programs and food celebrating longer days, warmer weather, and St. Patrick’s day in our first extended weekend of the festival. Check out the details and menus at this year’s Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival Blooms with Help from Bees, Disney Gingerbread Houses by Victoria Lim: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Lots of activity is buzzing at the 22nd Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival right now with a fresh experience that starts today. It's our first extended weekend at the festival: "Spring...From:Disney ParksViews:17325ratingsTime:01:19More inTravel & Events

Darden Restaurants plans to sell its 6-year-old corporate headquarters in Orlando and lease back the building in a long-term deal, the company said Friday. View the full article

Throughout our #DisneyKids series, we have showcased not only how much there is for preschoolers to do at Walt Disney World Resort, but also how much they love and remember their adventures in the parks. We recently learned about one of our park guests, a little girl named Lane whose mother Jennifer creates elaborate Disney Parks-themed costumes as a way to help Lane overcome her shyness. As you can see in this video, three-year-old Lane absolutely beams when her handmade dresses help to connect her to her favorite characters and cast members at Magic Kingdom Park. This family is undoubtedly creating lasting memories together, and we are so happy to be a part of their story. Do you and your little ones have unique memories from a Walt Disney World Visit? #DisneyKids: Young Girl Overcomes Shyness with Amazing Disney Side Costumes at Walt Disney World Resort by Jamie Langdon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Throughout our #DisneyKids series, we have showcased not only how much there is for preschoolers to do at Walt Disney World Resort, but also how much they love and remember their adventures...From:Disney ParksViews:301161ratingsTime:01:39More inTravel & Events