Disney4me

An Orlando Police Department officer accused of beating a handcuffed man during a 2014 arrest then lying about it was fired Wednesday, Police Chief John Mina announced. View the full article

Last July, Orlando Science Center Director JoAnn Newman asked the Orange County Commission for a $10 million-$12 million contribution toward a major overhaul. View the full article

Florida should scrap a new 11th-grade standardized test and reduce the number of other exams it gives students, the state's education commissioner said Thursday — a move that critics of testing said doesn't go far enough. View the full article

On Sunday more than 24,000 women will create magical memories when they participate in the Disney Princess Half Marathon presented by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, and you can share in the excitement “live” from your computer, tablet or cell phone. runDisney is excited to offer this opportunity for friends and family, and those just wanting to checkout a runDisney event, to “click-in” and watch dreams come true. Followers will be able to track runners as they run 13.1-miles through the Magic Kingdom and Epcot, and then join in “live” for a royal celebration at the finish line. Guests that go to the Disney Parks Blog will have two live streams to choose from. One stream begins at 5:00 a.m. and includes the start line, multiple cameras and social media feeds. The other begins at 6:30 a.m. and features an uninterrupted stream from the finish line. You can join in the social media conversation on Twitter and Instagram by using #PrincessHalf. After the race come back to the Disney Parks Blog for your chance to replay both feeds. For more information on Disney Princess Half Marathon and other runDisney race weekends, visit runDisney.com. Share In The Magic With “Live” Stream of the Disney Princess Half Marathon by Robert Hitchcock: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

On my Adventures by Disney travels I’ve slept in fairytale style castles in Germany, enjoyed rooms overlooking Norwegian fjords and reveled in bustling city views in locales near and far. But my personal favorite “room with a view” (thus far, but I’m determined to keep on looking forever!) was staying in my own personal casita in Peru’s Sacred Valley on an Adventures by Disney Peru vacation. Disclaimer: I can’t guarantee rainbows during your visit, but I can promise the setting will be completely breathtaking! Casita is Spanish for “small house,” and these small houses, found at the award-winning Sol y Luna Lodge and Spa, truly give you a sense of beautiful seclusion. Offering a backdrop of the stunning Andean mountains, this lodge serves as the setting for a variety of authentic Peruvian experiences, including a traditional Andean feast known as Pachamanca. Pachamanca means “earth oven” or, in other words, it means that your meal is actually cooked in the ground itself with the aid of hot stones. It’s truly a meal your family will never forget (and one you wouldn’t want to recreate in your own backyard)! The lodge also serves as home base for adventures such as river rafting, exploring local salt pans, hands-on cooking activities and, most notably, it’s the starting point for your travels to Machu Picchu, known as “the lost city of the Incas” and one of the Seven New Wonders of the World. So cozy up on your own private porch, on your own private Peruvian casita, with Adventures by Disney. And be sure to truly savor that view! Room with a View: A Peruvian Casita with Adventures by Disney by Amanda Adler: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

TALLAHASSEE — In what judges described as a first-of-its-kind case, an appeals court Wednesday upheld a Florida law that prevents people from openly carrying firearms, finding that the restriction does not violate the constitutional rights to bear arms. View the full article

I’ve seen them on Twitter for a few years now. Alien Dumplings, LGM Mochi, Little Green Men Dumplings, Toy Story Alien Mochi… Whatever you want to call them, they’ve been on my Disney “must try” bucket list since I first laid eyes on them. I ‘m here to report that I’ve crossed them off of my bucket list AND I’ve finally learned their “official” name: Little Green Dumplings! Little Green Dumplings Little Green Dumplings are obviously a tribute to Toy Story’s Little Green Men. They’re quite possibly the cutest edible thing I’ve ever had. Little Green Dumplings can be found at both Tokyo Disney Sea and Tokyo Disneyland. I feasted on mine from the Soft Landing snack stand in Tomorrowland at Tokyo Disneyland. It’s a small ice cream stop upstairs near Star Tours. We used the stairs inside Pan Galactic Pizza Port (also worth a look, amazing decor & themeing) to get there. Soft Landing is kind of a hidden spot and when we visited, no line! They only offer soft serve ice cream, beverages, and a few snack type items here. The current flavors of ice cream were peach, milk, or you could get a peach/milk swirl. I wish I had tried the soft serve, but at this point, the dumplings were a higher priority! The little plastic cases you see on the bottom right are mini snack cases. They come filled with small chocolate candies similar to M&M’s and look like mini souvenir popcorn buckets. The large plastic alien case is an optional souvenir carrier for your dumplings. It will set you back 880 Yen ($7.46 US), which isn’t too terrible considering that it comes with the trio of dumplings. The dumplings alone are 360 Yen ($3.05 US). At just over one dollar each, this is a perfectly affordable & tasty little treat! Soft Landing Menu Items When we stopped here, we were actually on a guided tour and on the hunt for bottled water. For some reason, bottled water is not quite as common in Japan as it is in US parks. Soft Landing is one of the few in-park spots where you can buy bottled water. So, with that… We purchased some water (don’t you love the Monster’s Inc. themed bottle?) and an order of dumplings. Water & Little Green Dumplings, Please! The dumplings come three to an order. From the top they all look the same, but if you flip them over you can see which flavors they are: Chocolate, Strawberry & Vanilla. Little Green Dumpling Bottoms! The actual green “mochi” dumpling is chewy & sweet. Each alien is filled with custard. The consistency of the custard is pretty thick; when you take a bite it doesn’t ooze out. The dumplings are filling & rich, I had just one bite of each flavor. Chocolate was my favorite, with vanilla in second place. I’m not a huge strawberry flavor fan, so that one was my least favorite. Apologizing now that the “bitten” photos are a little gross looking. When I revisited these photos I thought they looked sort of like stuffed grapes! Chocolate Dumpling Vanilla Dumpling Strawberry Dumpling Although I really enjoyed the Little Green Dumplings, I don’t think they are something I’d get on a regular basis. If you could buy them individually, I’d probably be inclined to grab a chocolate filled cutie once in a while. I mean how can you say no to this face?!? Adorable Tokyo Snacks for the WIN! Are you a mochi fan? Would you or have you tried Little Green Dumplings? Let us know in the comments below! Heather Sievers is the Disney Food Blog’s Dining in Disneyland columnist. See more of her columns here! 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: Dining in Tokyo Disneyland: The Many Faces of Popcorn at Tokyo Disney Resort Guest Review: Snacks at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea Dining in TOKYO Disneyland: The Chandu Tiger Tail View the full article

For the first time in forever, Anna, Elsa and Kristoff are joining us ashore for a one-of-a-kind family Port Adventure! When we call on Ålesund, Norway during our Norwegian fjord sailings this summer, you’ll have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit with these Disney friends from the neighboring kingdom of Arendelle. Your adventure begins at a charming countryside village, recreated with buildings dating back to the 1800s. Here, at the outdoor Sunnmøre Museum, only Disney cruisers are invited to a Norwegian summer celebration where the festivities culminate with the arrival of the beloved royal sisters and their ice-loving companion. At this outdoor celebration, you’re invited to dance to folkloric tunes from local musicians, play old-fashioned games and explore the beautiful grounds and historic homes. You’ll also get to sample tasty Norwegian specialties, including svele, a traditional sweet pancake from the region. The photo opportunities will be plenty, when visiting with the many locals wearing traditional Norwegian outfits and the village’s beautiful Fjord horse, and of course, during your personal meet-and-greets with our special “Frozen” friends. This Disney-exclusive Port Adventure marks Anna, Elsa and Kristoff’s very first visit to the land that inspired their story. Who’s ready to bring back summer so we can get this party started? ‘Frozen’ Friends Join Disney Cruise Line Port Adventures in Norway by Arnaldo Zanonato: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Characters from the Disney animated hit “Frozen” join rich family experience ashore in the land that inspired their storyCELEBRATION, Fla. (Feb. 18, 2015)  – Disney Cruise Line invites families to explore culturally rich and exotic locales, with Port Adventures like only Disney can do, during its 2015 Norwegian Fjords sailings. From June to August 2015, the Disney Magic returns to Europe, visiting the Norwegian Fjords and Iceland for the first time. Guests exploring these new ports, steeped in Viking history, will be treated to richly diverse destinations that showcase iconic locations, enchanting cultures, tantalizing cuisine and unrivaled experiences. To elevate guests’ experiences in Norway, Disney Cruise Line Port Adventures are designed to entertain and inspire both children and adults—in true Disney fashion—with an extra dash of pixie dust. “Frozen” Festivities and Viking Ventures in Ålesund For the first time in forever, Anna, Elsa and Kristoff from the animated hit “Frozen” join Disney Cruise Line guests in Ålesund, marking their very first appearance in the land that inspired their story. Only Disney guests are invited to a Norwegian summer celebration at the Sunnmøre Open Air Museum where the festivities culminate with the grand arrival of the beloved sisters and their ice-loving companion, Kristoff, who join in the lively revelry. After being personally greeted by their “Frozen” friends, and surrounded by the idyllic beauty of Norway, guests dance to local musicians and sample tasty Norwegian specialties, including svele, a traditional sweet pancake from the region. Another Ålesund adventure exclusive to Disney Cruise Line includes a quest to a Viking village on the island of Giske, where guests head back in history to meet the village chieftain and experience the Viking world. Adventurers find themselves in the middle of daily Viking life and mingle with members of the Norse families, experiencing first-hand the traditions, authentic food and games that come with being a Viking. Guests also learn traditional Viking handiwork and put it to practice by crafting their own leather bags. Iconic Fjord Horses in Olden Guests travel from the quaint village of Olden on a Port Adventure exclusive to Disney Cruise Line, visiting a Norwegian Fjord Horse Center to experience one of the world’s oldest breeds and one of the country’s national symbols, the Norwegian Fjord Horse. The adventure includes an up-close look at the stallions, mares and foals in a tour of the stables. Guests also have an opportunity to interact with the horses and see these magnificent animals in action. This includes watching a dynamic riding performance and taking in the picturesque scenery during a carriage ride around the grounds. A Taste of Norway in Kristiansand For those with a culinary passion, a Port Adventure exclusive to Disney Cruise Line in centuries-old Kristiansand provides the perfect hands-on cooking experience. Guests don their aprons and create Nordic specialties first-hand, such as succulent wild game filets and krumkaker, a heavenly waffle cookie typically served around Christmastime. The experience culminates with guests enjoying their sumptuous meal paired with a glass of wine. The Great Outdoors of Geiranger From the port of Geiranger, crowning jewel of the Norwegian fjords, comes an experience just for Disney Cruise Line guests – a visit to the Gjaera Mountain Farm where the local family provides an up-close look at daily life. Children join Disney Cruise Line youth counselors to create one-of-a-kind stamped pillows in the farm’s printing studio using handmade wooden stamps that have been passed down through the family’s many generations. Meanwhile, adults explore the farm and its microbrewery, sampling fresh brews. After building up an appetite, everyone reunites for a taste of traditional Norwegian foods produced at the farm including juices, breads, creams and cured meats. Another journey brings Disney Cruise Line guests to the Herdalsetra Mountain Farm, where on the way to a nearby scenic valley they will enjoy a spectacular view of the Geirangerfjord and the Seven Sisters waterfall made famous in Norwegian folklore. Guests tour the enchanting farm brimming with 30 farmhouses and more than 450 sprightly goats scampering around the property. They also sample the farm’s fresh cheeses including Norway’s famous brown cheese – similar to sweet fudge. Those looking for even more adventure will find it kayaking through the Geirangerfjord. Gliding over dazzling turquoise waters, guests will get an up-close look at stunning waterfalls roaring down into the fjord and the majestic mountains along the water’s edge. Folk Dancing and Discovery in Molde Outside of Molde, the “town of roses,” Disney Cruise Line guests arrive for an afternoon at one of the largest folk museums in Norway, the Romsdal Open Air Museum, which encompasses more than 50 buildings. Guests explore the century-old property, including lush gardens, farmhouses, smokehouses and a chapel, and experience a spirited performance of Norwegian folk dancing featuring local children in traditional regional outfits. “The Land of Fire and Ice”—Reykjavik, Iceland Only Disney Cruise Line families can get “fired up” during an exhilarating trip to the edge of a local lava field that gives adventurers an up-close look at volcanic craters and lava fields that make up the country of Iceland. Families take part in an art workshop on the edge of the hardened lava field, using real lava to create their very own framed lava art. Classic “can’t miss” Icelandic landmarks take center stage on the tour of The Golden Circle. On this visit to some of Iceland’s most iconic attractions, guests will explore a national park, a glittering waterfall, popping hot springs and a high-tech geothermal energy exhibition. Over a barbecue lunch in the woods offered exclusively to Disney Cruise Line guests, troll wife Gryla and her helpers tell the legend of troll giant Bergthor of Bláfell, whose exceptionally large grave, headstone and ring from his walking stick can be found in a nearby churchyard. Details on all Disney Cruise Line shore excursions can be found on the Port Adventures section of disneycruise.com. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit www.disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact their travel agent. ### View the full article

One morning not so long ago, I checked out the new Hollywood Tower Hotel Authentic merchandise that arrived at Tower Hotel Gifts in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. You may recall a previous story a few weeks ago discussing this new program that was inspired by the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror attraction at Disney Parks. Here’s a quick look at what I discovered beyond the fifth dimension. Upon entering Tower Hotel Gifts, I immediately noticed the new products displayed throughout the shop. The merchandise presentation team reworked many of the wall fixtures and added some new elements to the location. The shop now features a Tower Hotel Gallery with collectible artwork such as the art deco-inspired bellhop sign created by Disney Design Group artist Richard Terpstra. It was great seeing some of my other favorite items in the shop like the bellhop hat and the bell. The team also added a few nods to the original television series above the merchandise displays (look above the register area to find Talky Tina). I enjoyed seeing a luggage cart being used as a fixture for apparel, and the display for the Disney Theme Park Edition of Jenga is quite creative! Additional items will be arriving throughout this spring at both Disneyland California Adventure park in Disneyland Resort and at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World Resort. There will more apparel items for men and women (the women’s T-shirts will arrive toward May). There will also be a new black-colored bathrobe that is due to arrive around April. Finally, new drinkware and stationary will be added to the shops in the coming weeks. Here is a gallery of other items I found. I hope you “drop in” sometime soon to check them out. GalleryPHOTOS – Hollywood Tower Hotel Authentic Merchandise Checks Into Disney Parks view allThe Twilight Zone® is a registered trademark of CBS, Inc. and used with permission pursuant to a license with CBS, Inc. PHOTOS – Hollywood Tower Hotel Authentic Merchandise Checks Into Disney Parks by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

It’s an exciting time, as we count down the days until the 2015 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival gets underway! Of course, around here, we’re most interested in the Outdoor Kitchens! We’re so excited to see the return of these kiosks stationed around World Showcase. 2015 will mark the third consecutive year that guests of the Festival can enjoy sips and tapas-sized dishes, themed to celebrate the bounty of the garden. And while we’re still awaiting the full menus, we do have some news regarding some of the new dishes that will debut at this year’s festival. Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Outdoor KitchensFirst off, let’s discuss which Outdoor Kitchens you can expect to see this year. While we haven’t heard word which Kitchen from 2014 won’t return, we know that Botanas Botánico will debut. Check out this post about Botanas Botánico to learn more about its menu. Fleur de Lys in the France Pavilion Returns That means we anticipate at least one 2014 Kitchen will be absent, as we expect there to be 11 kitchens. So far, we know the following will return: Fleur de Lys in the France PavilionTaste of Marrakesh in the Morocco PavilionHanami in the Japan PavilionThe Smokehouse: Barbecue and Brews Outdoor Kitchen in the America PavilionPrimavera Kitchen in the Italy PavilionLotus House in the China PavilionJardin de Fiestas in the Mexico PavilionFlorida FreshPineapple PromenadeUrban Farm EatsDoes that mean that the Buttercup Cottage in the UK Pavilion gets the axe this year? We super hope not — the Biscuit with Smoked Salmon Tartare and the Lemon Scones were to die for last year!! As far as dishes go, there are certainly some exciting things that we can’t wait to try. We hear that fan favorites, like Frushi, will return. Frushi (Fresh Strawberries, Pineapple and Cantaloupe Rolled with Coconut Rice, atop a Raspberry Sauce Sprinkled with Toasted Coconut and Whipped Cream) Chefs will also take advantage of the Florida strawberry season once more by offering Beijing Candied Strawberries. Beijing-Style Candied Strawberries Return to the Lotus House New for 2015! New Flower and Garden Festival Dishes DebutBut we also have a few details on brand new menu items. Look for the Macaron Guimauve à la Fraise, a strawberry marshmallow macaron, at Fleur de Lys. We Don’t Know How It Can Be Better Than Last Year’s Orange Blossom Macaron, But We’re Willing To Try It! Falafel with Cucumber Tomato Salad and Tahini will debut at Taste of Marrakesh. Kale Salad with Dried Cherries, Almonds, and Goat Cheese and a Quinoa Vegetable Naanwich with Arugula Pesto and Oven-Dried Tomatoes make the menu at Urban Farm Eats. Definitely some exciting vegetarian options to look forward to! We Can’t Wait To Try the New Urban Farm Eats Menu Items I am super excited to try the Beef Brisket Burnt Ends Hash with White Cheddar Fondue and Pickled Jalapeños (WUT?!??!?!) at The Smokehouse! But will that Piggylicious Bacon Cupcake return?? Let’s hope so. Pulled Pig Slider with Cole Slaw Will Return to the Smokehouse this Year Last year, we thoroughly enjoyed the Limoncello Cheesecake on offer at Italy’s Primavera Kitchen. This year, we have a Limoncello Panna Cotta to look forward to. Or, if you prefer, stop by Florida Fresh for another lemon dessert, the Florida Blueberry and Lemon Curd Tart. (YAAAAAAASSSSSSSSSS!!!!! LEMON CUUUUUUUUUUURD!!!) Pineapple Promenade seems to be expanding their menu in a fun way this year, as they offer a Spicy Hot Dog with Pineapple Chutney and Sriracha Mayo. Pineapple Promenade Booth All in all, it’s shaping up to be another Flower and Garden Festival that will be as delicious as it is beautiful! Stay tuned for more details on beverages at this year’s Flower and Garden Festival as well as the full menus! What are you most looking forward to enjoying this year at the Flower and Garden Festival Outdoor Kitchens? Leave a comment and let us know! 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! New Bonitas Botánico Outdoor Kitchen Debuts at Epcot Flower and Garden Festival, Plus Garden Rocks Concert Line Up News! 2015 Epcot International Flower and Garden (PLUS FOOD!) Festival Details Announced News! Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Food Booths Are Arriving (And the Menu Has Been Updated)! View the full article

The Force is growing stronger here at Walt Disney World Resort as the galaxy prepares for this year’s Star Wars Weekends. If you’re as big a fan of the annual Disney’s Hollywood Studios event as I am, you’ll be excited to learn that several crowd-favorites are back in 2015, including James Arnold Taylor! Known for voicing characters such as Obi-Wan Kenobi on “Star Wars: The Clone Wars,” Taylor will host the Stars of the Saga talk show with everyone’s favorite stormtrooper preshow at a new, larger location in Theater of the Stars on Sunset Boulevard. Darth’s Mall is also moving to a new and expanded complex near Streets of America, where you can find Star Wars-themed and exclusive event merchandise just for Star Wars Weekends 2015. One of my favorite out-of-this-world experiences to catch this year is the Jedi Mickey’s Star Wars Dine at Hollywood and Vine. My day just wouldn’t be complete without dinner surrounded by my favorite Disney pals dressed in their Star Wars best! The galaxy won’t be so far, far away when beloved and iconic Star Wars characters assemble and “Summon the Force” each night for a grand celebration, including a look back at your greatest moments throughout the day on social media. For the finale, the night sky will erupt in an interstellar frenzy of fireworks as “Symphony in the Stars” salutes the saga’s most dramatic stories and brings you as close to the Force as you can get. We’re still gathering all your favorite droids and scoundrels, so stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog and StarWars.com for the latest updates. As we announced in December, the fun comes to our galaxy Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from May 15 – June 14, 2015. Check out StarWarsWeekends.com for all the must-know event details. Are you planning on joining the Force? If so, which characters are you looking forward to seeing the most? For my boys, it’s the Jawas – they love to trade with those little guys! Let us know your favorites in the comments! Can You Feel the Force? Star Wars Weekends is Getting Closer! by Shawn Slater: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

For some of us, the Outdoor Kitchens are our first destination at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, 75 days to munch and learn from March 4-May 17. It’s the third year for the Outdoor Kitchens around World Showcase Lagoon, and the garden- and spring-inspired tapas-sized food and beverages just get more and more interesting. The new Botanas Botánico Outdoor Kitchen between France and Morocco pavilions will showcase treats like Cachapas with Farmer’s Cheese, a sweet yellow corn pancake, and Seafood Ceviche with shrimp, scallops and grouper with mango and avocado. “It’s so much fun coming up with creative new flavors to wow our guests,” says Chef Gregg Hannon, Epcot executive chef. He mentions Beef Brisket Burnt Ends Hash with White Cheddar Fondue and Pickled Jalapeños at The Smokehouse: Barbecue and Brews Outdoor Kitchen, and the Quinoa Vegetable Naanwich with arugula pesto and oven-dried tomatoes at Urban Farm Eats. Especially appealing are flavors inspired by fruits and veggies, like the Frozen Desert Violet Lemonade, Sparkling Pineapple Wine and Berry Tea Cocktail at Pineapple Promenade; the Macaron Guimauve à la Fraise (strawberry marshmallow macaron) at the Fleur De Lys; the vegetarian Falafel with Cucumber Tomato Salad and Tahini at Taste of Marrakesh; Frushi (fresh pineapple, strawberry and melon rolled with raspberry coconut rice, sprinkled with toasted coconut and whipped cream) at Hanami; Limoncello Panna Cotta (gluten free and vegetarian) at Primavera Kitchen; Watermelon Salad with Pickled Onions, Baby Arugula and Feta Cheese and the Florida Blueberry and Lemon Curd Tart (vegetarian) at Florida Fresh; Beijing Candied Strawberries at Lotus House; and Kale Salad with Dried Cherries, Almonds and Goat Cheese (gluten free and vegetarian) at Urban Farm Eats. Hungry yet? Protein fans will love everything from Confit de Canard (pulled duck confit) at Fleur De Lys to a spicy hot dog with pineapple chutney and sriracha mayo at Pineapple Promenade. There’s Harissa Chicken at Taste of Marrakesh and a Pulled Pig Slider at The Smokehouse: Barbecue and Brews. Florida Fresh will serve up hearty Shrimp and Stone-Ground Grits with Andouille Sausage and Jardin de Fiestas has tacos with achiote marinated pork. Look for our next post on all the fun beverages! For more information, call 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639) or go to epcotinspring.com. The festival, including all gardening programs and exhibits, is included in regular Epcot admission. Food Vies with Flowers at Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Excited about the ongoing transformation taking place at the Downtown Disney Area? I am, too! Last Friday was an especially notable day as hundreds of cast members and partners gathered to celebrate the opening of the Village Causeway, a new bridge that connects the area near The LEGO Store across the water to Rainforest Café. Not only is this my new favorite route to work, but it’s quickly becoming a popular guest spot for photos, sunset viewing, and shopping – yes, shopping! I recently shared information on two new kiosks at the Downtown Disney Area, and four more have just opened on the Village Causeway: Flour & Sugar – Perfect for guests who want to take a taste of the Sunshine State home with them, this new shop offers freshly baked cookies with Florida flavors like coconut, key lime and strawberry. (I hear the South Beach Toasted Coconut Key Lime Cookie is especially tempting!) You can buy them individually or in easy-to-transport canisters of six.Florida Bath Co. — Lately, I’m loving specialty soaps, and this locale offers products made with home grown ingredients like organic vegetable juices and essential citrus oils. If you love Basin, you’ll love this – they share the same owners.Icon Jewellery by Bico – Want your accessories to have meaning? Check out this shop where concepts like Love and Friendship, Protection, Strength and Luck are represented in pieces crafted from hand-polished fine grade pewter and enhanced with fine materials like Swarovski Crystals, New Guinea Rosewood and genuine leather. The best part … you can customize your jewelry just the way you like.Kate & Leo – No doubt about it, I’ll be buying my nieces toys and games from this charming cart. With items designed to evoke a world of curiosity, creativity and imagination, you’ll find travel games, magnetic story boards, beautiful art supplies and more, no batteries required.During your next visit to Downtown Disney Marketplace, be sure to stroll the Village Causeway – it’s my favorite recent enhancement to the neighborhood and I have a feeling it may become yours, too! The Village Causeway Opens to Guests at Downtown Disney Marketplace at Walt Disney World Resort by Darcy Clark: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Frozen Slush drinks are by no means new to Magic Kingdom. Learn About: Columbia Harbour HouseMagic Kingdom Disney World RestaurantsYou’ll find them in all sort of places in a variety of flavors. Pinocchio Village Haus is known for changing it up with slushes dedicated to characters from the Pinocchio story and film (examples include the former Jiminy Cricket Slush and the current Blue Raspberry Slush in honor of the Blue Fairy). The Lunching Pad in Tomorrowland offers an array of Icee-type slushes in four different flavors: Blue Raspberry, Cherry, Minute Maid Lemonade, and Coca-Cola. Cheshire Cafe serves arguably the most popular versions of slush drinks: Lemonade and Raspberry Lemonade. You can also find the Raspberry Lemonade at Sunshine Tree Terrace, along with a Pina Colada Slush (sans rum) to boot. And I haven’t even mentioned the Liberty Swirl Slush at Sleepy Hollow — a patriotic red-and-blue combo of Strawberry and Blue Raspberry. OR the Cherry Slush with FOMZ at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe. Cherry Slush topped with Lemon Lime Fomz Still with me in spite of the brain freeze ? Good. Because there is a place that’s managed to fly under the radar in the Slush game, and that’s Columbia Harbour House. Like a few other spots, it does indeed serve the Lemonade Slush. But they have their very own spin on this frozen treat as well: the Iced Tea Lemonade Slush. And I’d yet to try it. Columbia Harbour House Columbia Harbour House The Iced Tea Lemonade Slush has been on the menu for quite some time, but you’d almost never know it. On the back of the printed menu, the Lemonade Slush gets tops billing with a big ol’ picture on the bottom left, while the Iced Tea version just gets a small mention on the upper right corner. Columbia Harbour House menu. Mmmm broccoli. The Iced Tea Lemonade Slush comes to you not entirely blended, so you see both components — the Iced Tea Slush and the Lemonade Slush — in a “layered” effect. Iced Tea Lemonade Slush And, of course, the same thing happens with the flavors: sometimes you get a burst of tart lemonade, sometimes more of that distinct sweetened iced tea flavor (you do need to like the taste of iced tea to enjoy this drink), and sometimes a combo of both like an “Arnold Palmer,” only frozen. Iced Tea Lemonade Slush Iced Tea Lemonade Slush I had no idea I would enjoy this so much, and I’m basically kicking myself for not trying it ages ago. The way it all comes together is kind of like a slush for adults — of course, not “adult” as in an alcoholic beverage (this is, after all, the Magic Kingdom, and you won’t find alcohol anywhere other than the wine and beer served for dinner only at Be Our Guest Restaurant). Rather, the iced tea helps to temper the whole thing so you don’t end up with something uber syrupy-sweet like the Blue Raspberry Slush at Pinocchio Village Haus. Instead, the result is something a bit more pleasing to an adult palate with all the childlike fun of a slushy drink. I found it to be a terrific mix! Now, why Columbia Harbour House for this hidden gem of a slush? My only guess is that it’s a nod to the Boston Tea Party of Revolutionary War days, fitting for the Liberty Square setting of Columbia Harbour House. But maybe that’s overthinking things… regardless, I’m glad it’s there. Because I, for one, will definitely be back for it! Are you tempted by the Iced Tea Lemonade Slush? 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: Review: Lighthouse and Anchors Aweigh Sandwiches at Magic Kingdom’s Columbia Harbour House Review: Blue Raspberry Slush at Pinocchio Village Haus in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Review: Columbia Harbour House at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom View the full article

Thursday, February 19, is officially Lunar New Year, the turn of the Chinese calendar. At Disney California Adventure park, celebrate with these little tastes of Asian goodies during the Happy Lunar New Year Celebration! At Bayside Brews, you can sip a cold Tsing Tao Beer and bite into a soft, pillowy steamed bao filled with pork, served with sweet chili sauce. These steamed buns, considered grab ‘n go street food in China, are a perfect snack for strolling the park. If you prefer dessert, try a ginger milk tea with almond cookies. The pork bao and almond cookies also will be available on the Lunar New Year food cart, along with the popular Boudin Bakery sourdough bread (this one baked with a wood ram insignia – it’s the “Year of the Sheep”), so take home a loaf for your own celebration. Happy Lunar New Year! Celebrate With Good Eats at Disney California Adventure Park, February 19-22 by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Growing up in the Northeast, right about now I remember thinking winter will never end. You’re probably ready for a vacation somewhere warm and sunny with a few castles … (hint hint!) We here at Walt Disney World Resort wanted to share a little magic to help keep the winter warriors warm; help them discover their Disney Side, so to speak. You know, that part of you that comes out to play the moment you see those mouse ears. We sent Mickey and his pals to snowy, cold Long Island, New York to bring some fun to a simple, everyday event – like walking through a mall. And our hidden cameras were there to capture it. Check it out: Shadows of Favorite Disney Characters Surprise New York Shoppers by Victoria Lim: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

See what happens when Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Ana, Elsa, Olaf, Cinderella, Buzz Lightyear and other Disney Characters magically surprise unsuspecting shoppers with their Disney Side. How do...From:Disney ParksViews:4973533920ratingsTime:02:17More inTravel & Events

"I Wish" | Walt Disney World | Disney Parks When you stay at a select Walt Disney World Resort hotel you get the most out of your vacation. And now you can save up to 25% off a select Walt Disney World Resort hotel room when you book...From:Disney ParksViews:45744259ratingsTime:00:31More inTravel & Events View the full article

OK, here’s where it gets good. I love showing you guys pictures of what you can get at Disney restaurants. It’s the best way for you to judge for yourself whether or not you think a restaurant is right for you. But sometimes I just gotta share a few secrets that I’ve discovered. Things that aren’t actually ON the menu, exactly, but that are truly worth getting and trying. And today, I’m sharing another great tip from the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining — Ordering “Off the Menu” Items in Walt Disney World Restaurants. And if you like what you see here, there are a lot more where these came from! To see our whole list of must-have “off the menu” items for 2015, pick up your copy of the Guide today for $4 off using code 2015 right here! Spicy Tomato Butter at Mama Melrose’s Ristorante ItalianoRecently, we’ve been enjoying some truly incredible meals at Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano. This quirky eatery in Disney’s Hollywood Studios has plenty of traditional Italian fare on offer, but they can also surprise with a creative twist or two. Mama Melrose Makes an Incredible Steak and Mac and Cheese Combo! During my last couple of visits, I’ve had the opportunity to enjoy their Spicy Tomato Butter! You’ll find this amazing sauce on their Oak-Fired Mussels, but if you’re not interested in ordering said Mussels, consider requesting some of the Spicy Tomato Butter with your bread. Bread with Spicy Tomato Butter and Other Accompaniments And I’m so glad I asked the server for this “off the menu” request, because that butter is incredible! Spicy, savory, and rich, it’s delicious served with bread. In fact, on one recent visit, the server actually brought it to me slightly melted, like a dipping sauce! Heaven. Cranberry Sauce at Liberty Tree TavernHave you had the pleasure of enjoying dinner at Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom? If not, what are you waiting for?? Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom And if so, then you know that part of what makes it so awesome is that it looks a lot like America’s favorite meal — a Thanksgiving Day Feast! Roast Pork, Turkey, and Beef with Cornbread Stuffing and Chutney at Liberty Tree Tavern But there is one key ingredient missing when they bring the family-style dishes to your table; the meal doesn’t automatically include Cranberry Sauce. And I don’t know about you, but it just isn’t Turkey Day without that little gem on the table. Cranberry Sauce at Liberty Tree Tavern But never fear — they have Cranberry Sauce — and it’s pretty fantastic! You just have to request it. It seems that not all guests love it as much as you and I, so it ended up being thrown out quite a lot of the time. So order it with abandon if you like a little Cranberry Sauce on the side of your meal — they’re happy to bring it to you, included in the cost of the meal! Fried Mozzarella at Via NapoliSpeaking of Liberty Tree Tavern, they used to have a wonderful Tavern Fried Cheese Appetizer that included Deep Fried Cheese Curds. They were out of this world. Sadly, you can’t get them in the Colonial American-themed spot — but I DID find something similar at one of my favorite Epcot restaurants, Via Napoli! Via Napoli in Epcot’s Italy Pavilion The restaurant is a fairly recent addition to the Italy Pavilion in Epcot, and boasts some of the best pizza that I’ve ever had anywhere. I’m always happy to order a pie, or one of their stellar pasta dishes. But to begin, we always request an “off the menu” order of Fried Mozzarella. The nuggets of fresh cheese come as part of the Fritto Misto Platter, but when ordered that way, you only get a couple. I always ask for extra, and they’ve been happy to bring them every time! Mozzarella Caprese at Via Napoli If you miss the Tavern Fried Cheese, ya gotta try this! Ready for All of Our Best Tips?We’ve got TONS of Disney World Dining Tips — including some of our other suggestions for fun things you may want to order that aren’t on the menu — in our big, bold, 490-page DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 — and the guide is your ticket to planning your best Disney trip yet! The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 20+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs! With sample dining itineraries, plus our “Disney Dining at a Glance” section, featuring “Where Can I Find?” options, you’ll have everything you need to plan the best vacation ever. Click here to get your copy of The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 E-book — and use code 2015 for an extra $4 discount for a limited time! Now let’s hear from all of you! What are your favorite tips and tricks for ordering things “off the menu” at Disney? Leave a comment with your favorite things! 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: Tips from the DFB Guide: Best Spots for Dining with a Toddler Tips from the DFB Guide: The Best Spots for Coffee and Tea in Walt Disney World Tips From the DFB Guide: Our Top 3 Tips for Late Night Disney World Dining View the full article

Kid-Size Vacation Offer | Walt Disney World Resort This spring, make your little one's dreams come true with a kid-size package offer! http://di.sn/6004xOre Enjoy 3 nights at Disney's All-Star Music Resort with 2-day Theme Park tickets...From:Disney ParksViews:290887ratingsTime:00:31More inTravel & Events View the full article

My family and I were at Enchanted Tales with Belle on Sunday, one of the newer attractions at Disney's Magic Kingdom, and, per the script, a cast member asked kids for their favorite books. View the full article

Ocoee police hope to prevent a sequel of Saturday night's disturbance at the West Oaks Mall theater, where hundreds of teens stormed into the movie house without a ticket — forcing their way into "Fifty Shades of Grey." View the full article

Timothy Austin, a Jacksonville high-school senior, scanned the University of Florida admissions letter and then lost interest. Who really reads every single sentence in a rejection letter? View the full article

Orlando Police Lt. Samuel Riggi retired recently after being accused of accepting nearly $10,000 in cash from a sex worker. View the full article