Disney4me

A new video distributed on the Internet on Saturday shows what appears to be a Japanese hostage saying that a fellow Japanese captive had been executed and outlining a new militant demand for his release. View the full article

Welton Cadwell is well aware of the bleak history of metro Orlando's road-building agency: the grand jury investigations, the forced resignations and, most of all, the almost obligatory pledge to do better. View the full article

In the days after Christian Gomez picked up an ax and decapitated his mother on New Year's Eve, neighbors in the family's Tampa-area suburb said the 23-year-old man had a history of mental illness so severe that his mother sometimes tried to hide medication in his food. View the full article

One little St. Cloud dog has become a poster pup for pet adoption. View the full article

A manhunt is underway after a shoot out between two motorists caused a car to crash into a CVS sign this morning, officials said. View the full article

As I zip around Orlando's sparkling new downtown arts venue I'm starting to feel at home. But it has taken a few visits to learn the ins and outs of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. View the full article

Despite facing a 15-year prison sentence, Scott Campbell is still pedaling his debunked business from behind bars, according to prosecutors. View the full article

Authorities say a 400-pound black bear mauled a woman's arm at a wildlife sanctuary in Dade City. View the full article

This week, we shared special looks at very small things and very big things at Disneyland park. First, a look at something big that appeared small … Through the lens of Disneyland Chief Photographer Paul Hiffmeyer, the oversized tea cups at the Mad Tea Party could be just regular-sized cups sitting on a table. And on to very small things, we gave Disney Parks Blog readers a peek at the newest residents of Circle D Corral … our new baby goats! We also gave you a chance to help us decide their names – vote here now through Monday. This Week in Disney Parks Photos: Things Big and Small at Disneyland Park by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

It’s a new year, and we’re excited about all that 2015 holds! And already, this year is shaping up to be an awesome time where Disney Food is concerned. With major developments at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and new restaurants on the horizon at Downtown Disney Orlando (read more about Morimoto Asia, Boathouse, and STK), it seems like there’s always something new to report to you guys! And we know that new information is never more important to you than when you’re planning your next Disney trip! We are hard at work everyday, bringing you the latest breaking news and reviews of what’s happening throughout the Disney Parks and Resorts. Initiatives like MyMagic+ continue to have a major impact on Disney visits, drastically changing the way you do things from even a year or two ago. That’s why planning is so important — and that’s where we come in! We’re updating our collection of critically-acclaimed DFB Guides so that you have lots of new content and relevant information for 2015. And very soon, we’ll bring you the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2015 Edition! And — this is the best part — you can get your copy this week for $4 off using code PRE2015! We can’t let Genie out of the bottle quite yet but you can be sure that the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2015 Edition will offer plenty of new features: Lots of UPDATED Reviews of Every Disney Restaurant, Bar, Lounge, and Eatery, Including New SpotsMany NEW Photos and Special FeaturesUpdated MUST-KNOW Disney Planning Details for 2015More Than Three Brand New ChaptersAnd so much more! If you have pre-ordered the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2015 Edition, then you’re already enjoying our 2014 Edition, and you’ll receive notification of the new book as soon as it’s published! We’re hard at work doing updates and making sure the guide is chock full of the best information for YOU! And if you haven’t, today’s the day! Order now, receive the 2014 Guide for FREE to get you started, and we’ll email you as soon as the 2015 Guide comes out in late January. That’s like getting two books for the price of one! Remember to use code PRE2015 to get $4 off your pre-order for this week ONLY! Be on the lookout for new editions of all of our handy e-books coming soon, and as always, the DFB Team thanks you so much for your support of all we do here. We couldn’t make this happen without you guys! 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: Deal! Get 50% Off the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2015 Pre-Order for ONE MORE WEEK! DFB Deal of the Week: Pre-Order the 2015 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining and Enjoy Big Savings! Coming Soon: The “DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining” e-Book! View the full article

The Disneyland Band officially opened the 2015 National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Show being held at the Anaheim Convention Center this weekend. The NAMM Show is the world’s largest trade-only event for the music products industry. Yamaha, the official sponsor of musical instruments to the Disneyland Resort, helped make the appearance possible. Guest conductor Mickey Mouse also joined the performance, which included musical numbers ranging from jazz to classic Disney tunes. In addition to sharing their commitment to music education at the NAMM Show, the Disneyland Band is performing a dozen community concerts for second-grade students in Orange County, Calif., which they have done for more than 30 years! Disneyland Band Opens 2015 NAMM Show in Anaheim, California by Kevin Rafferty, Jr.: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The Disneyland Band officially opened the 2015 National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Show being held at the Anaheim Convention Center this weekend. The NAMM Show is the world's ...From:Disney ParksViews:61ratingsTime:01:35More inTravel & Events

If you are planning a trip to the Disneyland Resort this February, here are a few quick tips on some of the merchandise events you don’t want to miss! February 6–8: Precious Moments doll designer and artist Linda Rick will be on hand from noon to 10 p.m. each day, at China Closet in Disneyland park, as we celebrate the release of her Valentine’s collection, among other fan favorites! Learn more here. February 7–8: Join us as we welcome Nidhi Chanani from 1–4 p.m. each day at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District. Look for additional appearances by Nidhi, February 28 and March 1. Learn more here. February 14: Join us for a special artist showcase as we celebrate the release of some of the newest pieces by artists Nidhi Chanani, Liana Hee, Jerrod Maruyama and Miss Mindy. Meet the artists from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District. Learn more here. February 14-15: Meet ACME Archives artist Guy Vasilovich who will be on hand for a special appearance and signing of his latest pieces from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., each day, at Off the Page in Disney California Adventure park. Learn more here. February 28: World renowned Mouseketeer, entertainer and author, Bobby Burgess, will be on hand for a special appearance from 9-11 a.m. at Disneyana in Disneyland park, as we celebrate the recent release of Ears & Bubbles: Dancing My Way from The Mickey Mouse Club to The Lawrence Welk Show. Learn more here. Artist in Residence: Appearing at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District throughout the month is artist Liana Hee. Look for artist showcases on the following dates: February 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 and 28 from 6-10 p.m. Learn more here. Which events have made your list of things to do? February 2015 Merchandise Events at the Disneyland Resort by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

“Frozen Fun” has arrived at Disney California Adventure park, and with it some “cool” new treats! Cozy up to Warm Hugs White Hot Cocoa while you’re enjoying the Olaf Snowflake Crisped Rice Treat at “Olaf’s Snow Fest.” Let it go and indulge your sweet tooth with the Royal Sisters Cookie or Olaf’s Just Chillin’ Cupcake. If you’re a fan of the famous Disneyland corn dog, you’ll love the bite-sized version available at “Olaf’s Snow Fest.” For a true taste of Arendelle, try the Scandinavian-style meatballs. If you’re looking for a light bite or healthful snack, try the Crunchy Snowman Veggie Cup or Duke of “Cheeselton” Cheese Platter. While you’re here, fuel your fun at “Freeze the Night! A Family Dance Party” with one of the refreshing new drinks available at Ice House and Ice Bar. Be sure to try Troll Juice, apple juice with a sour twist and Sprite, served in a souvenir light-up cup. They’ll also be pouring a few new icy adult beverages: Rum Flurry, Summertime Pina Colada and Blue Snowberry Margarita. And over in Disneyland park, look for a special Blueberry Twist from Maurice’s Treats in Fantasy Faire while you enjoy the new “Frozen”-inspired show at the Royal Theatre. Select “Frozen”-inspired items will be available throughout the Disneyland Resort at “Olaf’s Snow Fest,” Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Café, Jolly Holiday Bakery Café, Village Haus Restaurant, Schmoozies, Fairfax Market and select outdoor vending locations. Which new “Frozen” treat makes you long for summer? ‘Cool’ New Treats Have Arrived with ‘Frozen Fun’ at Disneyland Resort by Rachel Brent: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

True, it’s not quite spring yet, but there are new arrivals at Circle D Corral at the Disneyland Resort. Take a look at these sweet little cuddlers, 11 weeks old today. The spotted brown goat is a boy, and the spotted black goat is a girl. These two Nigerian Dwarf goats came to the Disneyland Resort from Amber Waves Farm in Norco, Calif. Nigerian Dwarf goats are popular as pets due to their gentle, friendly nature. We’re sure they’ll be happy to see you when they make their debut at Big Thunder Ranch Petting Farm in early February. In the meantime, you can help us name the new babies, or “kids,” as baby goats are called. Choose between one of the four pairs of names below and rally your friends to make sure your favorite names win! Vote to Name Our New Baby Goats at the Disneyland ResortVoting will remain open until 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 26, and we’ll reveal the winning names soon! Vote to Name Our New Baby Goats at the Disneyland Resort by Donna Fisk: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

With the addition of Dole Whip to Epcot during the Flower and Garden Festival and Epcot Food and Wine Festival, and at Animal Kingdom’s Tamu Tamu Refreshments since last May, we’ve become somewhat accustomed to spotting this Magic Kingdom signature snack in other Disney World parks. Dole Whip Float But Aloha Isle — the original home to Dole Whip at Disney World — is no longer your sole source of Pineapple soft-serve at Magic Kingdom (at least for the time being, we should say ). Aloha Isle Dole Whip has arrived at Sunshine Tree Terrace! Sunshine Tree Terrace The first appearance of Pineapple soft-serve on the Sunshine Tree menu came along with the rush of Christmas week crowds, so at the time it was unclear if it was a temporary attempt to help alleviate some of the loooooong lines at Aloha Isle for the weeks immediately surrounding the holidays. But since the lines are loooooong at Aloha Isle any time of year (understandably, because Dole Whip ), it’s good to know that a recent visit to Sunshine Tree Terrace revealed that Dole Whip remains on the menu! Sunshine Tree Terrace menu (click to enlarge) Sunshine Tree Terrace is serving up Pineapple and Vanilla soft-serve in cups, cones, or Floats. It does not appear that you can swirl your choice of flavor with the Orange Slush that is part of Sunshine Tree Terrace’s own signature snack, the Citrus Swirl. So, for a Pineapple-and-Orange combo (my personal favorite), you’ll want to stick with Aloha Isle. So whether it’s a Citrus Swirl or Dole Whip you crave, you can stop by Sunshine Tree Terrace — for now. Because someone special… Hello, Orange Bird! … will be happy to see you! Remember, Dole Whip at Sunshine Tree Terrace is subject to change. What do you think of another home for Dole Whip at Magic Kingdom? 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: “Is This Place Ever Open?”: Sunshine Tree Terrace New! Souvenir Tiki-Tankard at Sunshine Tree Terrace in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Snack Series: Citrus Swirl at Magic Kingdom’s Sunshine Tree Terrace View the full article

The Richard Petty Driving Experience at Walt Disney World Speedway is the place of dreams, giving race fans and adventure-seekers the ultimate thrill of riding in or driving a racecar around...From:Disney ParksViews:121025ratingsTime:02:16More inTravel & Events

Last summer, my son (and the rest of the world) discovered Disney Tsum Tsum. I recall we were on vacation in Ohio when he asked to download the fun puzzle matching and stacking game. Upon returning to Florida, he found the adorable stacking plush offered both at Disney Stores and in select locations at Disney Parks. Our friends at Oh My Disney even celebrated their arrival with a visit to Disneyland park (as seen in this article). I recently asked Victoria Hamilton, merchandiser for dolls and plush at Disney Theme Park Merchandise, about the best places to find Tsum Tsum when visiting Disney Parks. “There are currently two different locations that offer Tsum Tsum,” explained Victoria. “Guests in California should stop by the plush room inside World of Disney at Downtown Disney District. For guests visiting Walt Disney World Resort, they should visit Once Upon a Toy at Downtown Disney Marketplace. These two locations carry an assortment of four-inch plush and a handful of the larger sized plush.” She also told me that they will continue carrying select Tsum Tsum after they are released at Disney Stores. For example, guests will find the “101 Dalmatians” mini Tsum Tsum plush collection in early February at Disney Parks. This collection was first released at Disney Stores and online in early January. In related news, the Disney Pin Team will release a collectible pin pack featuring Tsum Tsum later this year. Each pack will contain five randomly selected pins. I grabbed a handful of pins to photograph for this story including Oswald the Lucky Rabbit! In addition to the two different locations at Disney Parks, you can find select Tsum Tsum products online at http://www.DisneyStore.com/TsumTsum. Happy stacking! Best Places to Find Disney Tsum Tsum at Disney Parks by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The year isn’t the only thing new around Disney World… we’re on the lookout for new eats, sweets, and refurbishment feats. Please keep your hands, arms, feet, and legs inside your ride vehicle at all times as we tour all four Disney World Parks to see What’s New! Something’s always just around the corner at Disney World! Animal KingdomWe’re starting out with another WILD trip to Animal Kingdom, which includes a couple of menu updates. At Yak & Yeti Restaurant, Firecracker Shrimp and Ahi Tuna Nachos for Two join the appetizers (the Dim Sum Basket for two remains), and Ginger Salmon with Japanese Udon has been added to the noodle dishes. Chicken Tikki Masala is among the new specialty entrees, and Malaysian Seafood Curry arrives under Wok selections. Yak and Yeti Restaurant Be sure to check out the Specialty Drinks for some fun new beverages: Pink Himalayan, Kiwi Kimono, and a Rickshaw Rickie. Right next door at Local Food Cafes (also known as Yak & Yeti Counter Service), Korean Stir-fry Barbecue Chicken has replaced the Sweet and Sour Chicken. Local Foods Cafe menu At Dino Diner in Dinoland, U.S.A., the Snow Cone has been switched out for Nachos, served with just cheese or as Nachos Supreme (at least for these cooler months). Dino Diner Dino Diner Tamu Tamu Refreshments has undergone another menu refresh, currently offering the Slow-cooked Chicken Curry, Vegetarian Curry, and Roasted Chicken Salad. Tamu Tamu Refreshments This isn’t entirely unexpected, as the menu here seems to go through a standard rotation. So, if you’re disappointed that the Slow-cooked Pulled Beef Sandwich is no longer available, Hakuna Matata. It could very well make its way back around in a few months. And, as we discussed a few weeks back, Flame Tree Barbecue is closed for refurbishment with a tentative reopening of April 1st. Find out where you can find some of your favorite Flame Tree foods at other locations around the park! Flame Tree Barbecue closed for refurbishment Speaking of refurbishments, construction of the presumed location of the Animal Kingdom Starbucks (formerly the merchandise spot Creature Comforts) is well underway. These shots are from the first days of the change, and we understand that lots of progress has been made since. Creature Comforts location under refurbishment Work being done on the presumed Animal Kingdom Starbucks location Hollywood StudiosWhile we’re on the topic of Starbucks ;), many of the walls have come down surrounding what will be The Trolley Car Cafe (formerly the L.A. Prop Cinema merchandise location), on Hollywood Boulevard. Trolley Car Cafe Trolley Car Cafe sign Trolley Car Cafe sign Trolley Car Cafe doors The Big Hero 6/Baymax/Chocolate Cupcake with Banana Buttercream Icing is available for a limited time at Counter Service locations all around the park. Big Hero 6 Cupcake The current seasonal beverage at Joffrey’s Coffee Kiosks around Disney World, such as this one at Pixar Place, is Cupid’s Kiss: Chocolate, Caramel, Coconut, espresso and milk topped with whipped cream. Joffrey’s Coffee Kiosk at Pixar Place Joffrey’s Coffee Kiosk menu If you’ve visited The Hollywood Brown Derby, you may be familiar with the book in the entrance that displays autographs of celebrities that have visited the Derby in Hollywood Studios, reflecting the “where the stars dine” tradition and reputation of the original Hollywood Brown Derby restaurants. The Hollywood Brown Derby I appreciated actor Sean Astin’s sentiment recently added to the display (dated within the new year). I thought I’d share in case others who love the Brown Derby (and/or “Lord of the Rings,” “Rudy,” or “The Goonies”) might enjoy it as well: “Here’s the thing about the Brown Derby, my parents lived it and I still love it!” Celebrity book display While lots-o’ merchandise is certainly nothing new in these parts ;), right around the new year something changed on a lot of the Four Park merchandise. Four Park Shot Glass set Disney World mugs with the Earful Tower The Earful Tower is once again the primary icon representing Hollywood Studios on the newer items, since the Sorcerer’s Hat as we knew it (and loved or hated, as the case may be) is on its way to being no more. Sorcerer’s Hat deconstruction Magic KingdomThe Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Popcorn Bucket has hit the scene at popcorn carts all over Magic Kingdom! Seven Dwarfs Mine Train popcorn bucket Swinging Mine Train Bucket And just a note that Liberty Tree Tavern will undergo a refurbishment starting July 6th, anticipated to last into the fall. Liberty Tree Tavern Sign EpcotThe brand new Disney Parks Starbucks “You Are Here” Collection mugs debuted at Fountain View in Epcot (simultaneously, the Magic Kingdom mug was released at Main Street Bakery). Epcot “You Are Here” mug In World Showcase, it seems L’artisan des Glaces has another hit on their hands with the Strawberries and Cream Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich. L’Artisan des Glaces Strawberries and Cream Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich Staying in France, what’s this we hear about the Pavilion’s plans for their upcoming Outdoor Kitchen for the 2015 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival via the twitter feed of L’artisan des Glaces? Something about a “Cocktail on a Stick”?!? The Flower and Garden Festival returns March 4, 2015! I’m game! How about you? Disney World WebsiteIf you take a glance at the menus on the official Disney World website, you’ll notice a recent change. Online menus now offer descriptions of the items (as opposed to just the names as in the past). Here’s a screen shot from a portion of the page dedicated to a hidden gem at Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, Boatwrights. Boatwrights appetizer menu screen shot That’s it for this round! We’re looking forward to keeping you posted on all the food news yet to come in 2015… Happy 2015! 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: Confirmed! Starbucks Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in February 2015 Disney Food Post Round-Up: January 18, 2015 Disney Food Post Round-Up: January 11, 2015 View the full article

Tonight’s “After Dark” image was shot in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom Park. It’s a shot of one of the park’s original attractions – Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room. GalleryDisney Parks After Dark view allIs Adventureland one of your favorite stops at night? Tell us in the comments section below. Disney Parks After Dark: Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room at Magic Kingdom Park by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The Orlando police officer whose stray bullet killed an innocent woman while he was shooting at an armed suspect downtown in August has been cleared of criminal wrongdoing, officials announced. View the full article

TALLAHASSSEE — Two top Republican statewide leaders are now saying that allegations by Florida's former top cop against Gov. Rick Scott deserve to be investigated. View the full article

SANFORD – A 7-year-old girl, 5-year-old girl and 4-year-old boy chased each other through a courthouse hallway this afternoon, played with a stranger's necktie and pinched the cheeks of their brand new 19-year-old brother. View the full article

Okay, you lucky Californians (and anyone who might be visiting Disneyland the first week of March)… FIVE Disneyland restaurants are participating in Orange County Restaurant Week! Running for just one week, March 1-7, 2015, Restaurant Week features 100 of the best Orange County restaurants offering special discounted prix fixe menus. Led by Chef Marcel St Pierre, Disneyland Hotel’s Steakhouse 55 will return to the event this year. Three courses will be offered for $50 (an optional wine pairing is available for an additional $35): Guests will choose from among the following for their Starter Course: Hearts of Romaine, Chilled Tiger Prawns, or Creamy Onion Soup. Entree options include: Grilled Petite Filet Mignon, Pan-roasted Double Breast of Chicken, Slow-roasted Prime Rib, Fava Bean & Rye Crusted King Salmon (all served with sautéed French green beans and Delmonico potatoes). Per Disney, vegetarian options will be available upon request. And, of course, there’s still dessert! Choose from Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee or Chocolate Mousse Cake. Inside the Cool and Serene Steakhouse 55 Also participating in Restaurant Week are Naples Ristorante, Tortilla Jo’s, Catal, and Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen in Downtown Disney Anaheim. Check ocrestaurantweek.com for menu information as it becomes available. Reservations can be made by dialing (714)781-3463. Will you be participating in OC Restaurant Week? 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: Disneyland Restaurant Details for Orange County Restaurant Week Dining NEAR Disneyland: Disney-Themed Donuts at Orange County’s Donut Bar News! Downtown Disney Anaheim Celebrates Avocado Week View the full article

New bar and eatery to open late February on Restaurant Row. View the full article