Disney4me

In the latest in our series of Disneyland Resort horse training videos, we'll see Duke working on his ground driving skills with Circle D Equine Trainer Cindy Moser. http://di.sn/d02c Read...From:Disney ParksViews:129044ratingsTime:02:09More inTravel & Events

This weekend, I’ll be participating in the Walt Disney World Half Marathon. Like thousands of other runners taking part in runDisney races this Marathon Weekend, I started my training months ago. Not a runner? I wasn’t either. But now is a perfect time to start! With temperatures dipping around the country, I decided to talk with Fit2Run store manager, Gary Robinson, to get his take on winter fitness. Gary thinks that winter is a great time to start a running program, as long as you have the right gear. For runners who live in colder climates, long sleeve shirts or jackets with thumb holes can help keep you warm (there are some seriously cute options); running hats that cover your ears are a great addition, along with running gloves (some even have LEDs built into them for extra visibility!). I’m lucky to live in Florida where shorts and tank tops are the norm most of the year, but the bright selection of winter apparel makes me want to sign up for a race up north. Now that 2015 is here, I’m guessing many of you have New Year’s resolutions? If running is on your list, here are some tips from Gary especially for beginners: Limit yourself when you first start out. Start slowly and build from there.Once you have a base weekly mileage, only increase it by 10% each week. This will always save you from injury.Get the correct shoes. Shoes can make a world of difference.Talk to people who are successful in running. You may want to ask them how they stay motivated. Consider running with a group – they’ll keep you coming out each week.If you’re overwhelmed by the idea of running, stop into Fit2Run during your next West Side visit and talk to the staff … from 6 hour marathoners to state champs in track and field, they represent a variety of fitness levels who all embrace the culture of fitness. (My tip? Ask about their weekly Fun Runs … they’re free, untimed events open to anyone!) Whatever your goals for the year ahead, I hope you reach them. And for anyone participating in the runDisney events this weekend, I’ll see you at the finish line! (Oh, and runDisney athletes, don’t forget to join us for the Downtown Disney Cool Down Party on Sunday, January 11th from 2 – 8 p.m., where your race medal will score you goodies and discounts including a free drawstring bag from Fit2Run.) Winter Fitness Fun with Fit2Run at Downtown Disney West Side by Darcy Clark: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Happy New Year! Like many of you, I’ve been reflecting on my goals for 2015, thinking about what I want more (or less) of in my life this year. Chances are, your list of goals for the New Year are similar to mine. Since cruising with Disney is one of my favorite things to do, I started thinking about how I can accomplish these resolutions by simply doing what I already love to do – taking a Disney cruise! I wrote out some ideas of ways I can meet my goals during my next Disney cruise vacation. Check them out, and let me know if you have other suggestions. More Family Time: This one is easy. I could go on all day about the things my family can do together onboard … deck parties, stage shows, movies, dance parties, game shows, karaoke, miniature golf … you get the point! It’s no secret that Disney caters to families, so there’s no shortage of activities for quality time together. Get Fit: Exercising isn’t always top of mind on vacation, but keeping up with a workout routine is definitely possible on a Disney cruise. Not only is there an outdoor running track and a state-of-the-art fitness center on the ship, there’s a 5K run and yoga on the beach at Castaway Cay. I often find more motivation to exercise when sailing because of the gorgeous ocean views I get to enjoy at the same time. Have More Fun: See “more family time” above! In addition to all of the fun things to do as a family, there are also plenty of things I love to do for myself. Again, the list could go on and on, but some of my favorites are riding the AquaDuck, relaxing by the pool in the adult-only Quiet Cove area, eating at Palo for brunch, eating at Palo for dinner and dreaming about the chocolate soufflé I had for dessert at Palo! Try Something New: Norway, here I come! Disney Cruise Line is always traveling to new destinations, and sailing the Norwegian fjords is a great “something new” for me to try this year, don’t you think? There’s bound to be exciting shore excursions on the Northern European cruises, so I’m sure it won’t be difficult to try a new experience ashore, too! Manage Stress: See all of the above! For me, increasing fun, relaxation and adventure is the perfect stress management tool. In fact, just thinking about my next Disney cruise makes all of my stress melt away. For you, too? How a Disney Cruise Vacation is the Solution to New Year’s Resolutions by Jonathan Frontado: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Attention, Starbucks fans: now you never have to leave your favorite hangout! At least not if you’re visiting the Downtown Disney West Side location. Starbucks Location in Downtown Disney’s West Side Recently, the coffee giant announced that they’d be piloting a new Starbucks Evening menu in select locations throughout the U.S. These locations would offer beer and wine as well as food to go along with the adult beverage selections. So far, the menu has been rolled out in select stores in Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington D.C., and Atlanta. But today, we’re getting word that you can also enjoy the evening menu when you visit Walt Disney World, as the Starbucks located at Downtown Disney West Side has now joined the ranks. A Glass of Wine By the Fire? Sounds Awesome! Guests can enjoy wines by the glass or bottle, and beer and wine selections vary by location. In addition to the beverages, there are also tapas-style foods available. These include selections like Parmesan Crusted Chicken Skewers served with Honey Dijon Sauce; Blue Brie & Apricot Preserves Plate; Chicken Sausage & Mushroom Flatbread; and Truffle Macaroni and Cheese, in addition to other items. Of course, you can continue to enjoy coffee, tea, and other Starbucks beverages as well as their ongoing menu of grab and go items. The company continues to add to its snack and lunch offerings with the addition of Sandwiches and Bistro Boxes. Indoor seating The move is clearly intended to draw the same level of crowds in the evening that Starbucks enjoys during morning hours. I for one can’t wait to check out the new offerings and menu! It’s pretty exciting that an option only available in a handful of locations is being rolled out right in our Disney backyard! Now we want to hear from all of you! Will you be stopping by Downtown Disney West Side Starbucks to sample the new Starbucks Evenings Menu? Leave a comment and let us know what you think! 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 and Photo Tour! Starbucks at Downtown Disney’s West Side Is Now Open Full Review: West Side Starbucks in Disney World’s Downtown Disney Wetzel’s Pretzels and Haagen-Dazs Return to Downtown Disney’s West Side! View the full article

Is 2015 the year you will tackle your first runDisney race? Artwork from the 2014 WDW Half Marathon tee Maybe you’ve already put some thought into where you’ll celebrate your accomplishment once the race is over. But what about before the race? You might have some questions about what’s available to nosh as you prepare to make your way to the starting line. With Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend upon us, we thought now might be a good a time to show you some items that are typically available across Disney World Resort food courts — just some simple eats that might be similar to food you’ve eaten prior to training runs at home. Everything Pop Food Court at Pop Century One thing all Disney races have in common (well, the daytime races, in any case ), is that they start EARLY. And you’ve got to get there even earlier. Your resort food court can be a great place to grab a few items the night before your race to have at the ready as you get dressed in the morning, or even bring to the race staging area to eat while you wait for your race to begin (at long last!). Now, for many readers familiar with Disney Resorts, this info might be old hat. Then again, maybe it’s your first time visiting as a race participant, and you may never have looked at Grab and Go selections very carefully. So, here’s your chance to check it out! A note before we begin: items may vary across resort food courts, but the photos below (taken at Art of Animation’s Landscape of Flavors and Pop Century’s Everything Pop) are intended to give an idea of items that are typical around the food courts. Be sure to check out both the bakery cases and refrigerated sections of the Grab and Go areas. Bakery Case at Landscape of Flavors While the bakery cases are bound to have primarily dessert-style options, you can often also find muffins, bagels, and in some cases, plain white bread. Assorted muffins Assorted bagels White bread Spreadable toppings may be a little more difficult to spot, but pouches of peanut butter (not refrigerated), cream cheese, and Smart Balance (refrigerated) are usually not far away. Peanut Butter pouches Cream Cheese and “Smart Balance” The refrigerated section holds yogurts, mixed fruits, veggies, and hummus snacks. Refrigerated section at Landscape of Flavors Yogurt Fruit and veggie packages Fruit trifle Hummus and Pretzels I’ve never had milk prior to a race, but I’ve heard that chocolate milk has a great reputation as being a terrific post-race recovery drink. Milk Your resort may have a selection of Vitaminwater brand drinks, and possibly sports drinks like Powerade. Vitamin Water and Powerade No matter where you are there is, of course, plenty of regular bottled water. Bottled water There are options outside the cases, too. Can’t say I’ve tried it, but I wonder if “Uncrustables” would be a suitable option around four in the morning ;)? Uncrustables If you’re eating in your room before departing, cereal might come in handy. Assorted cereals I’ve often found granola bars at resort food courts, but Landscape of Flavors is the first place I ever saw these Odwalla “Superfood Bars” in particular. Odwalla Bars Odwalla Bars Whole fruit options feature oranges, apples, and — a runner’s best friend — bananas. Whole fruit Oh, and there are a few celebratory AFTER-the-race items, too, if you are so inclined… Wine Beer My pre-race go-to is typically a fairly high-protein granola bar, a banana, and a bottle of water — super easy to carry to the waiting area, and filling without being overly so. That said, I am by no means a running expert or nutritionist, and every runner is different. Hopefully you’ve had a chance to experiment with what works best for you before the big day. You’ve worked hard… now it’s just time to show up, and ENJOY!! We here at the DFB wish all you runners lots of luck, and many miles of fun and magic! We’re rooting for you! Are you participating in a runDisney race this year? Please let us know with a comment… and good luck!! 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: 2012 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Will Feature a New runDisney Race! Great Places to Celebrate your runDisney Race! Reader Favorites: Disney Grab-and-Go Breakfast Items View the full article

Disney Photo Books are the perfect way to cherish the memories of your Disney vacation. In just a few steps you can create a favorite keepsake. Visit My Disney PhotoPass to begin creating yours...From:Disney ParksViews:263747ratingsTime:04:33More inTravel & Events

A Culinary Adventure in Tuscany | Adventures by Disney From wine tasting to truffle hunting, explore the rich heart of Tuscany with Adventures by Disney! This unique, food-focused adventure will immerse you in the spectacular settings, tastes,...From:Disney ParksViews:594237ratingsTime:01:09More inTravel & Events View the full article

Once again, Edible Orlando magazine is partnering with Disney Chefs for a truly memorable farm to table culinary experience! The 2nd Annual Field to Feast Dinner will take place on March 14, 2015, at Long & Scott Farms in Mount Dora, Florida. The special dinner will kick off with a reception from 4:30 to 6:00 PM, during which guests can also take advantage of farm tours hosted by farmer Hank Scott. Culinary stations will follow from 6:00 to 8:30 PM. The event will feature dishes created by Disney Chefs using locally sourced ingredients. And you’ll recognize many of the chefs and sommeliers as Disney Culinary Supertars! The list includes the following: Chef Brian Piasecki and sommelier Michael Scheifler from California GrillChef Tim Keating and sommelier Stig Jacobsen from Flying Fish CaféChef Jay Smith and sommelier Damaris Jimenez from the Wave…of American FlavorsChef Leonard Thompson and sommelier Jim Reynders from Disney CateringChef Gregg Hannon and sommelier Marianne Hunnel from Epcot International Flower & Garden FestivalChef Phil Ponticelli and sommelier Keith Gimbel from CítricosChef Scott Hunnel and sommelier Israel Perez from Victoria & Albert’sChef Christian Rumpler and sommelier Melissa Schreiber from Golden OakChef Stefan Riemer and sommelier Jason Cha Kim showcasing Disney dessertsField to Feast Inaugural Event Tickets are $165 per person, and details are available at EdibleOrlando.com. The event is co-sponsored by Walt Disney World Resort and Edible Orlando magazine, and proceeds will benefit the Kids Café Program of Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. The event promises to be an evening of unique and delicious food under the Florida stars, with the chance to chat with some of the most notable chefs at Walt Disney World! If you’re interested in attending, act quickly; tickets are selling fast! Will you be attending the 2nd Annual Field to Feast Dinner this Spring? Comment below and tell us if you’d like to join in the fun! 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: Walt Disney World Chefs at Edible Orlando’s Field to Feast Dinner 2011 United Way Chef’s Gala To Be Held in Epcot on May 21st News! Menus and Details for the 2014 Fifth Annual Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic View the full article

Magic Never Stops | Walt Disney World Resort The best part about staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel is that you're always right in the middle of the magic. And now you can save up to 30% on rooms at select Walt Disney World Resort...From:Disney ParksViews:54079147ratingsTime:00:32More inTravel & Events View the full article

Welcome back to the Flying Fish Cafe! Learn About: Flying Fish CafeBoardwalk Restaurants Disney World RestaurantsWhile all the dining talk on Disney’s BoardWalk has centered around the opening of the brand new Trattoria al Forno as of late, I wanted to bring you back to the Flying Fish, which is not only my favorite restaurant on BoardWalk, but also one of my very favorites in all of Disney World. Period. During the interim between the closing of Kouzzina and the opening of Trattoria al Forno, the Flying Fish served a stint as a breakfast location, previewing some of the dishes that are now on the breakfast menu at Trattoria al Forno. But this signature restaurant is now back to its regular dinner-only schedule, and if you haven’t enjoyed dinner at Flying Fish before, I’ve gotta say it: it’s practically a must-do. Flying Fish Come see what I mean… AtmosphereThe decor of the Flying Fish pays tribute to two things: first, the atmosphere honors its place on Disney’s BoardWalk through some insanely fun murals depicting things like turn-of-the-century roller coasters, those old school parachute swing rides, and other carnival-style attractions. Boardwalk murals Boardwalk murals The theme is continued as you move further into the restaurant with a gorgeous backlit ferris wheel, and the most enviable seating space of all right underneath the circus tent. Backlit Ferris Wheel Circus Tent seating The second design element plays on the star of the culinary scene here: seafood. And nowhere is that theme more evident than in the parachuting fish “flying” above as you dine! Flying Fish! Notice the bait hooks mixed in with some of the underwater themed lighting fixtures. Lighting fixtures With everything going on, you may not notice the open kitchen (unless you’re seated at the Chef’s Counter directly in front of the show), but try to take a moment to observe, since what happens in this kitchen is some of the best of Disney culinary feats in action. Chef’s Counter in front of the kitchen Of course, if you’re just looking for a quick dinner, the bar area is very comfortable, too. Bar area I have no idea if “upscale-whimsy” is an interior design term, but if it is, that pretty much sums up the Flying Fish. It manages to be both sophisticated and super fun at the same time. EatsThe name of this restaurant gives guests an idea that there is a focus on seafood at the Flying Fish, but don’t let that scare you or anyone in your party off who isn’t a seafood fan. Remember, I said this was one of my favorite restaurants, and seafood isn’t exactly my ultimate choice in cuisine. There’s plenty of meat and pasta to go around, too. But I’m getting ahead of myself… let’s start with the complimentary bread served with butter, which was hard to hold back on thanks to the unique touches of herbs and cheese tucked inside the nooks of the rustic bread. Bread My friends and I enjoyed some the bread while scoping out the Appetizer Menu. Appetizer menu My group opted to go light on the appetizers this time, but one of my friends ordered the Crispy Crab Cake and Caesar Salad. That Romaine Heart you see? It’s good – it is. Surprisingly flavorful for something as basic as a Caesar salad, and the gigantic cheese crouton is a fun twist. Crispy Crab Cake and Caesar Salad Caesar Salad But, really, this one’s all about that delicious Crab Cake — a classic at Flying Fish. Crab Cake Look at the inside: hardly any fillers to be seen — enough just to bind the crab meat within the crispy, well-seasoned breading. Crispy Crab Cake As for me, while it’s not exactly an appetizer, per se ;), I tried the Strawberry Smash: vodka with a splash of Sprite and muddled strawberries. Gorgeous, no? Strawberry Smash Allow me to emphasize the “splash” of Sprite. This was strawberry vodka pretty much all the way. I was surprised (though not unpleasantly!) by the strength of this drink. My friends and I were so tempted by the side items that we decided to treat them as appetizers in their own right — one of my favorite tricks. We ordered a selection to share around the table prior to our entrees, starting with the Leek, Fontina, and Truffle-laced Trofie “Mac & Cheese.” Because I’m not gonna pass up mac and cheese on any menu pretty much anywhere EVER. (Methinks we need to update our Mac and Cheese at WDW article, don’t you?) Leek Fontina and Truffle-laced Trofie Mac and Cheese The texture was terrific, and the truffle oil was pronounced. All truths told, though, I think it could’ve used a bit more punch with some additional salt. I’ve enjoyed this more in past visits. The Aged Gruyere and Parmigiano-Reggiano Potato Gratin hit a little more of the spot, with plenty of cheesy goodness and the well-crisped topping. Potato Gratin And, oh, how I love risotto — you know this, right? I pretty much always order the risotto on any menu…and if I can’t order a whole version, I ask for a little taste. ;-D The Creamy Risotto di Carnaroli didn’t disappoint. It’s creamy and savory, with chopped vegetables to break up the richness and lend variety to the texture. I thought the color was terrific, too. Creamy Risotto di Carnarolli Now, on to the entrees (you’ll see the full selection of sides in this pic, as well)… Entree and Sides Menu I simply cannot resist the Char-crusted Angus New York Strip Steak at Flying Fish, but this time I thought I’d do you all proud by ordering it as part of the signature entree duo: Char-crusted Angus New York Strip Steak and Potato-wrapped Red Snapper. Again, seafood isn’t my first choice, but this fish is beautifully done. The red snapper was wonderfully prepared and super fresh inside; and that light, crisp potato topper is a stunner. Plus, I love the accompanying sauce. And don’t worry about the smaller steak being overcooked; it’s just as ideal as the big steak. Flying Fish Signature Duo See? I can change it up ;). One of my friends got the full entrée version of the steak, so I’ll share those pics, too, because you’ve just gotta see it. I know it looks unusual and you may even question the taste with all that char surrounding the beautiful medium rare meat. But it’s divine — every time. Rather than tasting even remotely burnt, the char lends a terrific bit of crunch and smoky flavor to the tender beef. Char-crusted Angus New York Strip Steak Inside the strip steak Served atop of pearl pasta and a mix of diced vegetables (though accompaniments do tend to change fairly often), self-proclaimed meat lovers have to put this on their dining Bucket List. My other friend tried the Pasta a la Bolognese, featuring a five-meat ragout. Happy to say, this was another surprise winner. Against all the steak and seafood, this wasn’t anticipated to be a standout. Pasta Bolognese But my friend said the ragout was incredible with its unexpected smoky flavor. She called it a “special occasion dish,” because it was so decadent. But there is more decadence to come… it’s dessert time! First up: Classic Tahitian Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee Breton French Butter Biscuits with Blackberry and Strawberry “accentuations” (ooh! Fancy!!). Classic Tahitian Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee All that to say, it’s your standard Creme Brûlée… creamy and vanilla-y, it definitely does the trick. The deliciousness of the Spiced Bing Cherry and Chocolate Bread Pudding, on the other hand, was unexpected. The chocolate bread pudding was as rich and flavorful as we’d hoped. And the name “Sinful Chocolate Sorbet” was quite fitting . Spiced Bing Cherry and Chocolate Bread Pudding But honestly, what really stood out to me were the pleasantly tart spiced bing cherries on the side. Seriously, I could eat these for days. An incredible way to wrap up an excellent meal. OverallOkay, so it’s been pretty well established, I think, that I love the Flying Fish Cafe . I’ve simply never been disappointed with a meal here, and I’ve found it to be a wonderful place to meet with friends over the years to enjoy the unique atmosphere and terrific food (though thanks to the sheer amount of whimsy in the decor, I think kids would do fine here, too). Yes, as a signature restaurant, the offerings do change frequently. But I’ve been happy to enjoy a favorite several times with that signature steak, and it’s a great place to try new things as well, simply because I have a lot of confidence that the experience will be good. If you’re putting together your Disney Dining Resolutions for 2015, I’d highly recommend including a stop at the Flying Fish Cafe on your list! I certainly will. Have you dined at the Flying Fish Cafe? Please let us know about your experience 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! January Wine Dinner at BoardWalk Inn’s Flying Fish Cafe Entree Duo and PB&J Creme Brulee at Flying Fish Cafe on Disney World’s Boardwalk News! Flying Fish Cafe Offers February Wine Dinner View the full article

Happy New Year! Looking ahead, we anticipate sharing delicious reviews from new Disney restaurants. And we just heard that STK will be coming to Disney Springs at Walt Disney World. Tiramisu Cupcake And you know we’ll be visiting old favorites like Captain Cook’s. Recently while checking out the new Polynesian Lobby (click the link to see photos!!), we found a Tiramisu Cupcake there! Plus, read the top Disney food news from 2014. Just click on the links below! Disney Food NewsNew Disney restaurant news — STK was announced for Disney Springs, and we have a good idea of where you’ll go to get your Starbucks in Disney’s Animal Kingdom very soon!Check out the Tiramisu Cupcake, found at Captain Cook’s in Disney World’s Polynesian Village Resort!The Top 10 BIGGEST Disney food news stories of 2014! Check out all the latest Disney Food News — even the stuff we don’t mention in posts on the blog! — on our Disney Food News Pin Board, including restaurant closures, and more! We’ve got all the latest for you, so check it out before you go. DFB Reader FindsIf you find a fun new food — or other edible awesomeness — in or from Disney, share a photo with us on facebook or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday! Our readers continue to tempt us with delicious food from Walt Disney World. Let’s take a look at some items from the Animal Kingdom! Here’s a Mac and Cheese Hot Dog courtesy of Katie. Mac and Cheese Hot Dog Or for table-service, head to Yak and Yeti for these yummy appetizers sent in by Angelica. Do you have a favorite find? Share your Disney food photos! Pre-Order the 2015 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-Book Today for $5 Off!Want a big discount on our most popular DFB Guide in time for the new year? Or, you know, just cause you want to start planning your 2015 Disney trip TODAY? ;-D It’s yours! Pre-Order the 2015 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining today and use promo code HAPPYNEWYEAR for $5 off! We know that when it comes to your Disney vacays, planning ahead is practically essential these days. And if you can save time and money in the process — even better! And that’s why today, when you pre-order the 2015 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining and enter promo code HAPPYNEWYEAR, you’ll save $5 off of the already low cover price! But the really cool part? You get two books for the price of one! We’ll deliver the 2014 Guide to you immediately, and email you the 2015 Guide as soon as it is available early next year. Here are a couple of sample pages for you — just click to enlarge! DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Sample Page Samples Pages of the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2013 What’s in the DFB Guide?The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is stuffed FULL of helpful features to help make your trip go smoothly, like: A 5-Step Strategy for Disney Dining Planning, covering everything you need to know from budgeting and booking to kids’ meals, dining discounts, and fireworks.A comprehensive and in-depth look at EVERY Disney World restaurant, kiosk, bar, and lounge, including our personal tips to ensure a positive and stress-free dining experience.Four free, downloadable worksheets for planning your trip. These worksheets are designed to help you execute all the steps of planning the perfect Disney dining experience. And they’re reusable for all of your future trips!Seven sample one-day dining itineraries for a head-start on planning.A comprehensive index of bars and lounges. An often under-appreciated option for both dining and entertainment, the e-Book devotes a whole index to the topic.The ability to be read on your mobile device or computer! It’s fully portable right in your pocket!While our 2014 Guide was extensive, Disney World is always updating menus, prices, and other dining info. And we’re always finding new things to tell you about! So we’re updating this edition with brand new details and more exclusive info! With a 100% money-back guarantee, you have nothing to lose! Happy New Year! On to the Round-Up!Mickey Fix showcases a fun Mickey canvas tote bag. We think it’s perfect for carrying snacks! DisZine highlights the Three Kings Day Celebration at Disneyland Resort. Walt Disney World for Grown Ups carb-loads in the Magic Kingdom. Prep for runDisney’s Walt Disney World marathon now! AllEars dines at Be Our Guest Restaurant in the Magic Kingdom. After dinner, get your pic with the Beast! Daveland features a vintage photo of the Fantasyland Food and Refreshment Center at Disneyland. Disney Parks Blog announces IllumiNations dessert parties for January and February bookings. 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: Disney Food Post Round-Up: January 5, 2014 Disney Food Post Round-Up: January 26, 2014 Disney Food Post Round-Up: January 12, 2014 View the full article

 A 7-year-old girl survived a plane crash that killed four people Friday night, and the disoriented little girl walked away from the wreckage and reported the crash to a local resident, authorities said. View the full article

UCF football coach George O'Leary recaps the highs and lows of the 2014 season and looks ahead offseason goals. View the full article

We recently took a look back at some of the top Disney Food News Stories of 2014. And today, we’re happy to let you in on some of the new dining experiences you can expect in 2015. We figure there’s lots more to come, but this is certainly a good start! STK Coming to Downtown Disney OrlandoFirst up: another new restaurant is coming to Disney Springs! STK by the The ONE Group Hospitality, Inc., will open in The Landing area of the new development, which replaces the closed entertainment district Pleasure Island. STK is Coming to Disney Springs in 2015 STK will be a modern steakhouse, but will channel the atmosphere of a “sleek lounge”. Plans call for the restaurant to encompass approximately 14,000 square feet, two dining levels — and a DJ! This leaves us wondering — will STK make up for some of the night clubs we lost when Pleasure Island closed? An Artist’s Rendering of Disney Springs — The Landing The DJ and lounge aspect sounds pretty cool, but we’re also looking forward to checking out the planned rooftop dining — the only such area slated for Disney Springs at present. Interestingly, STK is the first announcement of a chain restaurant that we’ve seen slated for Disney Springs. Other locations include New York City, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Washington D.C., and London. Probable Starbucks Location in Disney’s Animal KingdomWe are also hearing lots of rumblings about where Starbucks may be located at Disney’s Animal Kingdom when it opens later this year. Starbucks logo While it hasn’t been officially announced, it looks like retail outlet and My Magic + Service Center location Creature Comforts will close this month and reopen as Starbucks later in the year. The rumor is supported by the fact that the Joffrey’s Kiosk Isle of Java, which was located on Discovery Island, will be opening a service window located in Flame Tree Barbecue. Isle of Java, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Starbucks locations are planned for both Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2015. Once completed, the two new stores will bring the total number of Disney World locations to six. So, what are you looking most forward to in 2015 — STK or sipping Starbucks while strolling through Animal Kingdom? Tell us your thoughts below! 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 FanRelated posts: News! Starbucks Signage Up in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom!News! Tusker House Restaurant in Disney’s Animal Kingdom to Begin Offering Character Dining for DinnerNews! Dole Whip Arriving at Disney’s Animal KingdomView the full article

About 20 people held a candlelight vigil in Lake Eola Park Friday to show support for the transgender community in the wake of the suicide of an Ohio teenager. View the full article

Now that all is set for the big game in the inaugural College Football Playoff, we’ve launched our next TV spot created in the same vein as our iconic “I’m going to Disney World” commercials. In the new spot, mascots from The Ohio State University and the University of Oregon are still passing the time at Los Angeles International Airport waiting to see who gets to go to Walt Disney World. Now, we’re down to two. With the new version of the TV spot, we’re also launching our next online poll. We’d love to hear what Disney Parks Blog readers think. Who wins and gets to go to Walt Disney World? Who will win the 2015 College Football Playoff National Championship and go to Walt Disney World?Be sure to check the Disney Parks Blog later this month for a special behind-the-scenes look at how we created these TV spots. New Disney Parks TV Spot Features Ohio State University, University of Oregon Mascots by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The last major obstacle to same-sex marriage in Florida appeared to melt away Friday as county court clerks either announced or conceded that they would issue marriage licenses to gay and lesbian couples on Tuesday, the first day it's allowed. View the full article

Orange County Deputy Jonathan Scott Pine spent the final moments of his life in a gunfight with a car-burglary suspect who fatally wounded Pine and then turned the gun on himself. View the full article

They were strangers, desperate for hope in far-flung places, as they wrote about surviving mutilation or dealing with birth defects. View the full article

Ohio State's “Brutus Buckeye" & Oregon's “Duck''are waiting to see who will be cheering “I'm Going to Disney World'' after the National Championship game! Who are you rooting...From:Disney ParksViews:10ratingsTime:00:32More inTravel & Events

A very rare albino dolphin was spotted in an estuary off Florida's East Coast in December. View the full article

For a young actor who started in Central Florida, C.J. Valleroy is being seen by millions these days. He plays the young Louis Zamperini in "Unbroken." View the full article

The bear blamed for severely wounding a Seminole County woman is living at the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, which hopes to display her to the public this year. View the full article

When Gov. Rick Scott had good news to share last month — state unemployment had dropped to 5.2 percent — he chose to make the announcement at a growing technology company in Maitland. View the full article

The University of Central Florida has created 100 new full-time faculty positions throughout the academic colleges in one of its biggest hiring spurts in recent years. View the full article