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Baseball spring training is already in full swing at Walt Disney World Resort and now it’s about to get even better. ESPN’s popular “Baseball Tonight” show, which airs nationally on ESPN and ESPN2, will broadcast live from ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex all week starting March 23. Guests are welcome to join hosts Karl Ravech, Aaron Boone and Tim Kurkjian for six shows over five days and be a part of the live audience outside Champion Stadium at the ESPN sports complex. The shows, which will include a variety of interactive experiences with the audience, will take place through March 27 during which the Braves will play the Phillies (March 24) and the Boston Red Sox (March 27) at Champion Stadium which is the team’s spring training home. Shows will take place Monday through Friday, 6 p.m.-6:30 p.m. And for you night owls: there’s a special broadcast on Thursday, 10 p.m.-11 p.m. The “Baseball Tonight” show is just the latest in a growing lineup of ESPN events held at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Last week, the “Mike and Mike” show celebrated its 15th anniversary here with live broadcasts at the ESPN sports complex and Downtown Disney Marketplace. ESPN also staged its “Fantasy Football Now” show at the ESPN sports complex as a part of the ESPN Fantasy Football Convention last summer. The “Baseball Tonight” live broadcasts are free and open to the public. And if you want to make a full day of baseball out of it, you can also get tickets to the Phillies and Red Sox games at the ESPN sports complex box office or through Ticketmaster. ESPN’s ‘Baseball Tonight’ Comes to Walt Disney World Resort by Darrell Fry: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Rolling Stones fans, "Satisfaction" is coming: The storied rock band is headed to Orlando. View the full article

Recently, I was invited to take a behind-the-scenes look at the hard work and artistry that goes into creating the beautiful chocolate Easter eggs displayed at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. I am so egg-cited to be able to give Disney Parks Blog readers a peek at the magic behind the scenes at the Grand Floridian Bakery. GalleryBehind the Scenes: Decorating Easter Eggs at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa view allThe level of detail that goes into these hand-painted, hand-carved creations is truly amazing. Erich Herbitschek, the Executive Pastry Chef of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, shared that his team begins working on the egg-stravagant pieces in January. The finished eggs will be on display starting March 20. Be sure to keeping checking the Disney Parks Blog for more springtime food fun! Behind the Scenes: Decorating Easter Eggs at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa by Rachel Brent: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

SANFORD – A 29-year-old Lake Mary attorney was arrested yesterday after Seminole County deputies accused him of smuggling a cell phone into the county jail at the request of a client, a convicted car thief who they say insisted that it be the latest model iPhone. View the full article

U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz of Weston, chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee, said Tuesday she won't be a candidate for U.S. Senate in 2016. View the full article

A French teacher at Cypress Bay High school in Weston will serve a five day suspension without pay for referring to a Muslim student multiple times as "Taliban" in school. View the full article

U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz of Weston, chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee, plans to announce Tuesday afternoon that she won't be a candidate for U.S. Senate in 2016. View the full article

An Orange County assistant principal apologized Tuesday for sending a text message with the phrase "vaginas are on fire" and said he was working to regain the trust of the school community. View the full article

St. Patrick’s Day is TODAY! (Are you wearing green??) And if you’re looking to join in the celebration of all things Irish, we have some great suggestions for observing the holiday at Disneyland’s Downtown Disney District! Say Cheers with Green Beer! Whether you’re after delicious St. Paddy’s Day-inspired dishes, or entertainment to stoke the festive spirit, here’s what you need to know to celebrate the Luck o’ the Irish at the popular spot! Catal Restaurant and Uva Bar started the party earlier! During the entire month of March, guests can enjoy their homestyle Corned Beef Reuben served on a rustic Marble Rye Roll. The sandwich comes with Uva’s Garlic Shoestring French Fries. Pair the platter with Red Trolley Irish Red Ale by Karl Strauss. Shaved Corned Beef Reuben and Trolley Irish Red Ale at Catal Restaurant and Uva Bar Crossroads Restaurant at House of Blues will offer lots of options for hungry guests in search of a hearty Irish feast. Look for menu additions such as Corned Beef Sliders, Cheese Soup featuring Guinness, Fish and Chips, and a Reuben Sandwich made in the traditional style with Corned Beef. Add Green Beer as well as Guinness and Jameson Specials to the mix. Guests can also enjoy entertainment here. Enjoy Karaoke with the Reel Band beginning at 8PM tonight, and a St. Paddy’s Day Bash featuring Street Dogs begins at 7PM in the House of Blues Music Hall. Crossroads guests will also receive free beads and glow sticks. Today brings super traditional eats to ESPN Zone, as they feature a Corned Beef, Cabbage, and Potatoes special, with Green Beer available to wash it down. Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen gets into the act with Corned Beef and Cabbage and a bevy of Emerald Isle-inspired drinks. Choose from Green Beer (natch), Baby Guinness Shots, and something called Jorge’s Bayou Leprechaun Cocktail. (If you choose the latter, we want pics!) It’s Always a Party at Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen in Downtown Disney In addition to the various restaurant offerings, Celtic Dancing will take place in front of WonderGround Gallery from 6PM until 10PM tonight. Will you be celebrating in (green) style at Downtown Disney District in Disneyland today? Comment below and tell us what you’re looking forward to the most! 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: Celebrate “Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day” at Raglan Road This Saturday! News! Downtown Disney Anaheim Celebrates Avocado Week Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Raglan Road Pub View the full article

On March 17, 2005, students from Green Elementary School joined Green Army Men and Buzz Lightyear for a special sneak peek of Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters. Did I mention it was St. Patrick’s Day? Following a cavalcade down Main Street, U.S.A., Buzz led the kids to the Tomorrowland entrance of his new attraction where they were among the first to enter the Gamma Quadrant to battle Evil Emperor Zurg. Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters would not officially open for another few weeks, on the eve of our 50th Anniversary Celebration, with Tim Allen on hand for the opening ceremony. A Look Back: Sneak Peek Celebration of Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters at Disneyland Resort by George Savvas: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Actor Jim Parsons, who plays the brainy Sheldon Cooper on TV's "Big Bang Theory," has come face-to-face with the wax figure that will be shipped to Madame Tussauds Orlando, set to open in May. View the full article

SANFORD — In a confusing whirlwind this morning, a 17-year-old first said yes, then no, then yes again to a plea deal and wound up pleading guilty to taking part in the gang rape of a Winter Springs High school student. View the full article

I’ve had the travel bug in me since a young age and, thankfully, I’ve had a chance to fill quite a few pages in my passport over the years. But I have to admit that my wanderlust has left me a little lacking when it comes to exploring the incredible National Parks found right here in my own backyard of North America. Most notably, I feel remiss to say that I have never taken a Grand Canyon tour. This is one of America’s most legendary landmarks, and on an Adventures by Disney Arizona and Utah vacation you can see firsthand why this national landmark is one of the seven wonders of the natural world. I think that soaking in the majesty of the Grand Canyon is truly a rite of passage that every person should experience. And that’s why this Adventures by Disney destination is so high on my “must do” list (and why I’ll be taking my own son on this trip someday). I think the main reason I’ve never been to Grand Canyon National Park is that it’s not exactly located in the middle of a major city (which also is a huge part of what makes it so appealing) and, therefore, it’s never seemed easily accessible. It’s not a place you can just “swing by” and check out on your way to your next destination. Nor would you want to. And that’s what makes the Adventures by Disney Arizona and Utah vacation so special – you’re not simply going on a brief Grand Canyon tour that’s mostly travel time with just a little bit of sightseeing thrown in. No, you actually get to spend two nights in the park itself, where you’ll be constantly surrounded by picturesque views. Here you’ll watch the sun set (and rise if you can make it out of bed in time), chow down on a delicious Western BBQ dinner complete with a noteworthy view, delight in an exclusive a Native American dance performance and so much more. Enjoy a private expedition, complete with a naturalist guide, as you drive and walk along the notable South Rim and discover the wonder and mystery that this landmark has to offer. And, the Grand Canyon is just part of this journey through the great Southwest. You’ll also explore other breathtaking, “bucket list” worthy in their own right, destinations, including Sedona, Monument Valley, Arches National Park and more. President Lyndon B. Johnson once said “If future generations are to remember us with gratitude rather than contempt, we must leave them something more than the miracles of technology. We must leave them a glimpse of the world as it was in the beginning, not just after we got through with it.” And I can’t think of any better way to see the wonders of the world than with Adventures by Disney. Stunning Sights Await at the Grand Canyon with Adventures by Disney by Amanda Adler: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Bernard and Janice Caffary are loyal -- loyal to the cruise ship the Carnival Sensation. The couple from Lakeland, Fla., are currently taking their 100th cruise on the ship as it sails from Florida to the Bahamas. View the full article

A 436-room condominium hotel, with studios starting at the base price of $290,000, is planned for development in Lake Buena Vista. View the full article

Happy St. Patrick’s Day from the Disney Parks Blog team! This photo, snapped in 1978 at Magic Kingdom Park, shows Mickey Mouse getting into the spirit of the holiday. Will you celebrate the day at a Disney park? Tell us in the comments section below. Happy St. Patrick’s Day from the Disney Parks Blog! by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

It’s dessert time, and we’re heading to Epcot’s Sunshine Seasons! Learn About: Sunshine SeasonsEpcot Restaurants Disney World RestaurantsLocated on the ground floor of The Land Pavilion, Sunshine Seasons is one of my favorite spots for discovering delectable sweet treats. Their Strawberry Shortcake is legendary, and I recently discovered an absolute must-eat treat, the Warm Peanut Butter Brownie, while visiting here. But Sunshine Seasons is also a best-kept secret for some of the most interesting and delicious Disney Cupcakes as well. We’ve enjoyed seasonal options like Pineapple Coconut and Guava Cream Cheese Cupcakes. On a recent visit, I also spied two brand-new-to-me cupcakes that I just had to share with you guys! Settle in, ’cause this is gonna be good. Sunshine Seasons at The Land pavilion in Epcot Apple Spice CupcakeFirst up, I spied the Apple Spice Cupcake. At least, that’s what we’re gonna call it. And how could you not spy it from like a mile away? With that solid covering of sparkly Red Sugar, this one was stunning, and certainly stood out from the crowd. Piped Green Icing Leaves completed the pop of color, and a Pretzel Stick made a good apple stem. But I couldn’t wait to dig in and see what was under that sugar! Apple Spice Cupcake As soon as I got it, I cut it in half to check out the contents (as per usual). The construction of this one is kind of interesting to me, since the frosting is applied in a dome-like fashion, rather than piped. Beneath the sugar, that frosting turned out to be one of the very best kind — Cream Cheese! At least I THINK it was cream cheese. It had a little apply flavor to it as well! Either way, it was dense and delicious. The cake was, predictably, Apple Spice-Flavored. But that makes it sound boring, and this was anything but. It was super moist and perfectly spiced. There were no fancy fillings, but honestly, there didn’t need to be. Apple Spice Cupcake — Cross Section The combination of dense Cream Cheese Frosting, Moist Apple Cake, and the Crunch from the Sugar were all this one needed to be tops on my list of cupcakes. Black Forest CupcakeThe other cupcake I sampled provided a major contrast, both visually and flavor-wise. The Black Forest Cupcake will definitely attract the attention of cherry chocolate fans. The Chocolate Dipped Cherry on top was a great addition. Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcake A closer look at the Chocolate Frosting beneath indicates that it’s probably Buttercream, and the Chocolate Sauce Drizzle provided a really nice contrast. The Buttercream is whipped and light, but very sweet. It’s interesting that they went with Chocolate Buttercream here instead of the more traditional Whipped Cream. Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcake — Up Close Cutting into this one, I found what I hoped for — a surprise filling of Cherry Pie Filling! They’ve done that little trick where they cut out the middle in a cone shape, add the filling, and put the inside back on upside down. The result is you get a yummy, surprise filling, and the cone of cake is the perfect base for piping buttercream. The only downside is that frosting lovers might be disappointed when they find the top isn’t a giant helping of frosting. This one was good, but I’ll give huge edge to the Apple Spice Cupcake. Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcake — Cross Section But — I do love me some Cherry Pie Filling! Want Even More Epcot Snack Details?Let’s face it: snacks are a big deal during your Disney vacation. And we’ve got all the info you need to get the biggest bang for your buck! The DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks e-Book helps you to make the most out of your trip. Our fully guaranteed, convenient e-Book format is available for instant download and use on any mobile device, so you’ll be able to enjoy it immediately! Inside the DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks e-Book you’ll find full-color photos and reviews of over 250 of our favorite Epcot snacks, pricing and dining plan info, bonus items, and more! And all of our DFB Guides come with a 100% money back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose! Will you make a beeline for Sunshine Seasons to try the Black Forest Cupcake or Apple Spice Cupcake? Join in the conversation by leaving a comment 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 Fan Related posts: Snack Series: Contempo Cafe’s Black Forest Cupcake Review: Lemon Blast Cupcake at Epcot’s Sunshine Seasons Snack Series: Guava Cream Cheese Cupcake at Epcot’s Sunshine Seasons View the full article

Two classics from Rodgers and Hammerstein, big Broadway hit "Kinky Boots" and an adaptation of a beloved Christmas cartoon are on the schedule for the 2015-16 touring Broadway season in Orlando. View the full article

It gives new meaning to the term "partner in crime." View the full article

Today I’m happy to share a video of our new baby goats at Disneyland park. Bernard and Bianca have been visiting with the guests at Big Thunder Ranch Petting Farm for a few weeks now, but we were able to capture this footage on their very first day out! We even had help from one of the herd, Lock, who proudly wore a “Goat-Pro” camera around his neck. Take a minute to share in the fun, and if you can, hurry out to Disneyland park to see the baby goats for yourself! Baby Goats Make Their Debut at Disneyland Park by Donna Fisk: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Bernard and Bianca have been visiting with the guests at Big Thunder Ranch Petting Farm for a few weeks now, but we were able to capture this footage on their very first day out! We even had...From:Disney ParksViews:375493ratingsTime:01:35More inTravel & Events

Who’s seen Disney’s “Cinderella,” now in theaters? If you haven’t yet, move it to the top of your list! My fellow Disney Parks Blog author, Steven Miller, recently shared some of the exciting new “Cinderella” merchandise headed your way, but i have a special treat for you … actually I have two! Debuting this month at the Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort is a Cinderella Coach inspired apple. It’s safe to say that candy makers got a little ‘carried away’ with this concoction. The apple has been dipped in caramel as well as edible shimmering white chocolate and comes complete with carriage-looking wheels. What are they made of? I guess you’ll have to try one to see! Another fun way to celebrate the film’s release is with our Cinderella Coach krispy treat, sure to be a fan favorite for any movie-goer. Here’s a list of locations where you can find them! Disneyland Resort Candy Palace, Disneyland parkTrolley Treats, Disney California Adventure parkMarceline’s Confectionery, Downtown Disney DistrictWalt Disney World Resort Main Street Confectionery, Magic Kingdom ParkBig Top, Magic Kingdom ParkGoofy’s Candy Kitchen, Downtown Disney MarketplaceCandy Cauldron, Downtown Disney MarketplaceSweet Spells, Disney’s Hollywood StudiosThese special treats are only available for a limited time, so don’t miss out! Will you try both? Cinderella Coach is a Magical Treat at Disney Parks by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Selected from 10,000 applicants, 100 high-school students, or Disney Dreamers, from across the country traveled to Walt Disney World Resort to participate in the once-in-a-lifetime educational and mentoring event known as Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and ESSENCE Magazine. This four-day experience is designed to fuel the dreams of teens and help them prepare for the future. Recently, the eighth graduating class of Disney Dreamers participated in “hands-on workshops” and inspirational seminars from celebrities, executives and industry experts were presented encouraging the students to dream big and get a jumpstart on achieving their dreams. Gallery2015 Disney Dreamers Academy Commences Eighth Class of Dreamers at Walt Disney World Resort view allSpecial guests and speakers included Walt Disney World Resort President George Kalogridis, Bishop T.D. Jakes, E! News Host Terrence J, HLN Reporter Rocsi Diaz, Actor Lamman Rucker, Film Producer Will Packer, Celebrity Chef Jeff Henderson and many others. This year’s commencement featured a performance by Grammy-Winning Gospel Artist Yolanda Adams, as well as final words of advice from Steve Harvey, ESSENCE Editor-at-Large Mikki Taylor, Essence Communications President Michelle Ebanks, Super Bowl Champion and Television host Michael Strahan and Vice President of Deluxe Resorts/Executive Disney Dreamers Academy Champion Tracey D. Powell: View Commencement Video Here Applications for the 2016 Disney Dreamers Academy will open this spring. Visit www.disneydreamersacademy.com for more information. And always remember to dream big! 2015 Disney Dreamers Academy Commences Eighth Class of Dreamers at Walt Disney World Resort by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

After Disney Parks Blog author Salah told us about some of the newest premium culinary offerings at Remy, our fine dining French restaurant on the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream, I had to check out these experiences for myself! Here’s my summary: “Amazing!!” Before joining Petites Assiettes de Remy on the first night of my last cruise, I sat down with Salah to hear more about this delicious and fun event. Check out this video to hear what he had to say (and be on the lookout for my cameo!) Next week I’ll share another video with Salah talking about the new dessert experience. If you have a sweet tooth, you won’t want to miss it! Petites Assiettes de Remy on the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream by Jonathan Frontado: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Check out this video to hear about Petites Assiettes de Remy. A delicious and fun event onboard the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream! http://di.sn/60022OEY SUBSCRIBE: http://di.sn/q7h About...From:Disney ParksViews:133141ratingsTime:01:27More inTravel & Events