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TALLAHASSEE – The budget stalemate between the House and the Senate over health-care spending got worse Wednesday, and lawmakers can’t tell when it will get better. View the full article

When she moved in, the living room in her dorm looked like a lobby of a walk-in health clinic, and the white cinder-block walls reminded her of prison. View the full article

A 64-year-old Winter Park man was arrested Wednesday on vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence charges in a February crash that killed two women in Casselberry. View the full article

More than 100 pastors from throughout the U.S. gathered in Orlando on Wednesday to talk about racial reconciliation and issues of injustice in the wake of the Baltimore riots. View the full article

Yesterday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognized the Disneyland Resort with a 2014 Food Recovery Challenge Award for having the nation’s highest percentage increase of food recovery in the theme park category. Participants of the EPA’s Food Recovery Challenge, from businesses to universities, have greatly reduced wasted food in America, the most common material put into landfills. The EPA’s recognition includes the following creative ways in which Disneyland Resort cast members preserve the environment. I am always encouraged to see how our cast members invest themselves in taking our environmental efforts to the next level! More than 7 million pounds of food scraps diverted from landfill for processing into feed nutrients for animals.More than 100,000 pounds of packaged food donated to local food banks last year.Nearly 60,000 gallons of used cooking oil processed annually into biodiesel used to power the Disneyland Railroad and Mark Twain Riverboat.The Disneyland Resort also was honored with California’s highest environmental honor earlier this year, the Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award, for waste reduction efforts. Over the last 10 years, the Disneyland Resort has doubled the amount of waste diverted from landfills with the long-term goal of achieving Zero Waste, a designation already awarded to Circle D Corral by the U.S. Zero Waste Business Council, and the location where the Disneyland Resort accepted its Food Recovery Challenge Award! Disneyland Resort Honored with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Food Recovery Challenge Award by Kevin Rafferty, Jr.: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Disney fans, buckle up! Join us as we go inside the HARVEYS factory for a behind-the-scenes look at how the bags are actually made. These attraction poster totes that are headed to the Disneyland...From:Disney ParksViews:110ratingsTime:01:52More inTravel & Events

Disney fans, buckle up! I decided to take a different route when it came to showing you the HARVEYS attraction poster totes that are headed to the Disneyland Resort this May. So join me as we go inside the HARVEYS factory for a behind-the-scenes look at how the bags are actually made. If you’re curious as to when you can get your hands on one of these new bags, they will debut as part of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration at Disney Vault 28 in the Downtown Disney District, beginning May 22 and will retail for $198 each. Which design are you most excited for? Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration HARVEYS Collection by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

As drinking excuses go, Cinco de Mayo is typically not my jam. I lean more toward whiskey than tequila, and bald guys (like me) look horrible in a sombrero. View the full article

I have a bit of a sweet tooth. Well, sweet teeth actually (32 of them to be precise). When traveling I always look forward to tasting regional foods from each destination visited, and generally the foods I’m most eager to sample are the desserts. So imagine my delight when I learned that while on an Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise our guests get to take part in an Austrian apple strudel demonstration and learn how to make this famous scrumptious treat. From making the dough from scratch to filling it with delicious apples to pulling the freshly baked treat out of the oven, this demonstration will get you and your family feeling like natural-born chefs. I know this sounds too delicious to be true, so if your mouth isn’t already watering check out the video below to get a better look. Austrian strudel making is just one of the many active hands-on experiences found on a 7-night/8-day European River Cruise vacation with Adventures by Disney. Stay tuned as I continue to share other exciting adventures from this vacation. A Hands-On Strudel Demonstration in Austria with Adventures by Disney by Amanda Adler: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

On the 40th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, Warren Hudson will remember, as he does most days, the lost lives of Davy Merrill and Fred Turner. View the full article

The Exotic Driving Experience at the Walt Disney World Speedway will remain shut down indefinitely instead of reopening Friday as previously planned. View the full article

One of our favorite times of year – Copper River Salmon has made its way back to menus at three Walt Disney World Resort restaurants: Artist Point at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Flying Fish Café at Disney’s Boardwalk area. It’s so special because this prized salmon is available for a very short window of time – mid-May to mid-June. Every year those beauties travel up the Copper River in South Central Alaska, covering a distance of about 3,200 miles to their spawning ground. All that hard work means fish that is flavorful and full of goodness. The Alaskans call them Chinook or Tyees, and the largest on record is a whopping 126 pounds. Keep an eye on the menus, but the best way to serve Copper River Salmon is simply grilled. Artist Point used cedar planks, and California Grill is planning “a la plancha” style, or grilled on a metal plate. Chef Brian Piasecki at California Grill says he’s hoping that local Zellwood corn will accompany in some form or fashion. And we’ll wait to see what the chefs at Flying Fish Cafe create. Make your reservations now – 407-WDW-DINE. Copper River Salmon is Back on Menus at Artist Point, Flying Fish Cafe and California Grill at Walt Disney World Resort by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

With the House gone early, here is where key legislation stands. View the full article

If you’ve been itching to get your hands on your very own Nautilus to take home, the time has arrived. Learn About: Trader Sam's Grog GrottoPolynesian Resort Disney World RestaurantsThat’s because Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto and Tiki Terrace at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort are now officially OPEN! Now, for all intents and purposes, both the Grog Grotto and Tiki Terrace have pretty much been in operation since March 28th, when the soft opening began, complete with wacky antics by the bartenders and skippers, erupting indoor volcanos, and a fully angered goddess of disaster. (And if you’re wondering what kind of code that is, be sure to check out our full review of these spots to learn all about the interactive experience that is an evening at Trader Sam’s!) Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace However, during the soft open stage, most of the souvenir glasses were not yet available to take home. While that may not sound like a big deal, their arrival is greatly welcome. Though not all the specialty cocktails are served in souvenir glasses, certain beverages correspond to their own specific take-home glass. And it was already anticipated that these very collectible souvenirs would be in high demand, based on the popularity of the souvenir glasses at Trader Sam’s original establishment, the Enchanted Tiki Bar in Disneyland. After all, who wouldn’t want their very own Shrunken Zombie Head, courtesy of everyone’s favorite Head Salesman? Shrunken Zombie Head glass ©Disney The HippopotoMai-Tai glass (resembling the tiki statue in the Polynesian’s Great Ceremonial House) already has more than a few fans. HippopotoMai-Tai Order an Uh-Oa! to get its signature container (as displayed in the artwork on the menu below)… if you dare to risk angering the Tiki goddess of disaster, that is. Uh-Oa! in the menu Uh-Oa Tiki goddess of disaster when she’s angry And those are just a few! But above all, it’s The Nautilus that everyone’s talking about. Nautilus And while much of that buzz may have something to do with its $52 price tag, for many fans of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, this souvenir bowl is a dream come true. The Nautilus in the souvenir display The Nautilus Whether or not you bring home your own souvenir from the vast collection of Trader Sam’s artifacts, here’s wishing everyone many happy hours at the Grog Grotto and Tiki Terrace! CHEERS!! Will you be collecting any souvenirs from Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto or Tiki Terrace? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: News and Sneak Peek: Check Out the Drinks Coming to Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto! News! Trader’s Sam’s Grog Grotto is Coming to Walt Disney World’s Polynesian Resort! More Details of Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Revealed at…Disneyland!? View the full article

Police have arrested two men in the Saturday shooting death of 61-year-old Guillermo Olivencia outside an auto parts store in Kissimmee. View the full article

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The setting of the upcoming film "Tomorrowland" may draw more inspiration from Epcot than its namesake land inside Magic Kingdom. Â View the full article

Gators Billy Donovan has Thunderous NBA offer he won't be able to refuse Gators Billy Donovan has Thunderous NBA offer he won't be able to refuse View the full article

World Veterinary Day promotes animal health, animal welfare and public health globally. Since its initiation in 2000, this day has been recognized on the last Saturday of April and provides a great opportunity to raise awareness about the amazing work veterinarians around the world do to protect and care for animals and people. At Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, we share these same goals, as our veterinary teams care for our diverse animal population. This year, World Veterinary Day fell on April 25. If you ask me, I believe we have the most amazing animal-care team on the planet, but I may be biased. The most incredible thing about our vets and the team as a whole is that we make the extraordinary seem routine every day. We take care of every animal – from turtles and tigers to red river hogs and birds. You can see our world-class vets in action at Rafiki’s Planet Watch at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. You can watch live animal medical procedures and talk to the vets and animal keepers after the live procedures as well. Most procedures are scheduled before noon, so be sure to take the Wildlife Express Train to Conservation Station for this unique experience. Did you know…? Our veterinary staff cares for animals in many locations including: Disney’s Animal Kingdom, The Seas with Nemo & Friends at Epcot, Tri-Circle D Ranch at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, and Castaway Cay.The state-of-the-art veterinary facilities at Disney’s Animal Kingdom include an X-ray room, ultrasound equipment, surgical suites and full-service laboratories. Veterinarians and veterinary technicians use these tools to focus on preventative health and creating new methods to diagnose and treat animals, ranging in size from a two-gram poison dart frog to a 13,000-pound African elephant. Wildlife Wednesday: Celebrating World Veterinary Day at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts by Scott Terrell: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

About half a dozen years after construction workers fled Central Florida during the real-estate bust, mounting labor shortages in the region have drawn national attention. View the full article

From one main ingredient, several Central Florida food entrepreneurs are building businesses that cater to consumers' need for comfort and nostalgia. View the full article

If you’ve cruised with us recently, you may have noticed a couple more friends on board. Two of your favorite Disney Junior stars – Sofia and Doc McStuffins – are now sailing the high seas with Jake and sparking extra fun for the whole family! You may spot them strolling the decks and delighting little cruisers with hugs, but did you know these friends also join our family dance parties from time to time? We have two opportunities for you to shimmy and shake together, Disney Junior style: Wake Up with Disney Junior: A high-energy, early morning dance party that is the perfect way to start the day with your little ones. Disney Junior Pirate and Princess Dance Party: A celebration for pirates and princesses with music and fun activities from Jake & the Neverland Pirates and Sofia the First. The Disney Junior fun doesn’t stop there. In Disney’s Oceaneer Club, we offer both entertaining and educational activities for little ones throughout the cruise … Mickey’s Puzzle Play Time: Mickey and his pals stop by the Oceaneer Club to play some of their favorite games and do other fun activities such as make puppets and learn dances with little cruisers and families. Little Einstein’s: In this interactive adventure, children go on a learning mission with youth counselors to explore nature and geography, experience great works of art and make music, just like the Little Einstein’s Leo, Annie, Quincy and June. What are some of your child’s favorite things to do on a Disney cruise? Finding Disney Junior Fun on a Disney Cruise by Jonathan Frontado: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer will deliver his annual "State of the City" address today at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. View the full article

Nik Wallenda's walk on the Orlando Eye left Matt Lauer hyperventilating into a paper bag Wednesday on NBC's "Today." View the full article

See what’s happening in the world of Merchandise Special Events this May at Walt Disney World Resort! April 29 – May 3: Artist Greg McCullough returns this month with special appearances and signings April 29 – May 3 from 1 – 9 p.m. at Art of Disney in Epcot and May 18 – 23 and 27 – 31, from 1 – 9 p.m. at Art of Disney in Downtown Disney Marketplace. Learn more. April 30 – May 3: Meet artist Larry Dotson, April 30 – May 3 (throughout the day) at Art of Disney in Downtown Disney Marketplace. Not able to make it? Look for additional appearances by Larry, May 14 – 17 at Art of Disney, Epcot. Learn more. May 1-2: Need a gift for Mother’s Day? Stop by Marketplace Co-Op in Downtown Disney Marketplace where you can find some of the latest releases from PANDORA and just the gift you’ve been looking for. Learn more. May 1 – 11: Representatives from Precious Moments dolls will be on hand for the debut of the Precious Moments Mother’s Day Collection. Meet the representatives and see the dolls throughout the day, each day, at Once Upon A Toy in Downtown Disney Marketplace. Artist Appearance Tip: Look for a special appearance by designer and artist Linda Rick, May 8 – 10. Learn more. May 8 – 9: Disney Fine Art artist, Michelle St. Laurent, will be on hand for a special appearance from 3 – 9 p.m., each day at Art of Disney in Epcot. Be sure to stop in and say hello! Learn more. May 8 – 9: Join us as we welcome artist Liana Hee to WonderGround Gallery at Marketplace Co-Op in Downtown Disney Marketplace. Take part in a special artist showcase and signing from 4 -7 p.m. each day. Learn more. May 8 – 16: Stop in and find some of the latest releases by artist David E. Doss from 1 – 9 p.m., each day, at Art of Disney in the Downtown Disney Marketplace. Learn more. May 14: We are summoning the most loyal in the galaxy to gather at the Galactic Gathering Event on May 14, 2015 between 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. A limited number of tickets to this special merchandise event are still available. Learn more. May 15 – June 14: Visit Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Fridays – Sundays for Star Wars Weekends. Darth’s Mall is expanding to a three-location complex and is your one-stop galactic destination for commemorative merchandise. Tip: Take part in special artist appearances and signings each weekend. Learn more. Are you curious what else we have up our sleeve? Here are a few other events to keep in mind. June 20: A new hand-painted limited edition Ink & Paint cel, titled Ariel and Friends, will make a splash at the Animation Gallery at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Look for appearances by the artists from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 2 – 5 p.m. on the day of release. Not able to make it? A special pre-purchase opportunity will be available May 4 through June 18, 2015. Learn more. September 11 – 12: Wanna trade? Tickets to this year’s GenEARation D event are available now and are in limited supply. Don’t miss out! Find out all the details and get a sneak peek inside the merchandise catalog for the event. Learn more. Which event are you most excited for? Walt Disney World Resort Event Snapshot: May 2015 by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article