INSIDER
Orange County Italian ice shop to be sold, but owners want to save disability worker program
Read full article: Orange County Italian ice shop to be sold, but owners want to save disability worker programAn Orange County frozen treat shop known for giving people with disabilities their first job experience is being forced to sell.
Ex-Disney worker accused of hacking computer menus to add profanities, errors
Read full article: Ex-Disney worker accused of hacking computer menus to add profanities, errorsA former Disney worker has been arrested based on a complaint that says he hacked into servers at Walt Disney World in order to manipulate computer menus.
‘Pretty surreal:’ Disney helps with conservation effort of bird extinct in the wild
Read full article: ‘Pretty surreal:’ Disney helps with conservation effort of bird extinct in the wildDisney’s Animal Kingdom is full of incredible experiences, but it’s also part of a conservation effort taking place thousands of miles from Central Florida.
Disney World raises annual pass prices across the board. What you need to know
Read full article: Disney World raises annual pass prices across the board. What you need to knowNew prices for annual passes were unveiled Wednesday on the Walt Disney World website, with costs going up between $30 and $100, depending on the pass.
Disney names Gorman to serve as next chairman; anticipates naming new CEO in early 2026
Read full article: Disney names Gorman to serve as next chairman; anticipates naming new CEO in early 2026The Walt Disney Co. is tapping Morgan Stanley executive James Gorman to serve as its next chairman, beginning early next year.
PGA Family Golf Championship happening at Walt Disney World this weekend
Read full article: PGA Family Golf Championship happening at Walt Disney World this weekendWith Hurricane Helene past Central Florida, participants in the PGA Family Golf Championship look forward to a fun weekend at Disney's Palm Course.
‘The needs of our business:’ Disney Aspire tuition program cuts off master’s enrollment, sets date for funding caps
Read full article: ‘The needs of our business:’ Disney Aspire tuition program cuts off master’s enrollment, sets date for funding capsDisney Aspire, a tuition program credited by many cast members as a reason why they began working for Disney in the first place, has cut off new applications to its master’s degree programs and plans to institute funding caps before year’s end.
Annual back-to-school drive at Walt Disney World supports A Gift for Teaching
Read full article: Annual back-to-school drive at Walt Disney World supports A Gift for TeachingVolunteers at Walt Disney World sifted through thousands of school supplies as part of the company's annual back-to-school drive supporting A Gift For Teaching.
Newest expansion at Disney’s Magic Kingdom means Tom Sawyer’s Island is going away
Read full article: Newest expansion at Disney’s Magic Kingdom means Tom Sawyer’s Island is going awayAt D23 Expo this past weekend, Disney unveiled its biggest expansion to the Magic Kingdom yet, with a Frontierland expansion themed around the franchise “Cars” and a land dedicated to Disney’s villains.
🍿 It’s a smell world after all: New ‘Smellephants’ installed at Magic Kingdom
Read full article: 🍿 It’s a smell world after all: New ‘Smellephants’ installed at Magic KingdomDisney has revealed a first look of the installation of “Smellephants on Parade," a search-and-sniff experience at the Magic Kingdom.
Springtime Surprise Weekend to wrap up runDisney race season at Walt Disney World Resort
Read full article: Springtime Surprise Weekend to wrap up runDisney race season at Walt Disney World ResortTaking place April 18 - April 21, runDisney’s Springtime Surprise Weekend draws inspiration from Disney films such as “Peter Pan,” “Up,” “The Lion King,” and “Lilo & Stitch.”
Changes coming to Disney’s Disability Access Service at theme parks. Here’s how it impacts waiting in lines
Read full article: Changes coming to Disney’s Disability Access Service at theme parks. Here’s how it impacts waiting in linesDisney updated its Disability Accessibility Services (DAS) program. The new changes will go into effect May 20 at Walt Disney World and on June 18 at Disneyland in California.
‘Paranoia.com:’ This creepy link sends you straight to Disney’s website. But why?
Read full article: ‘Paranoia.com:’ This creepy link sends you straight to Disney’s website. But why?The domain name is pretty strange, though a search for the owner on Whois reveals that it’s owned by ABC — a subsidiary of Disney.
Doctor dies after eating at Irish restaurant in Disney Springs, lawsuit claims
Read full article: Doctor dies after eating at Irish restaurant in Disney Springs, lawsuit claimsA complaint states that on Oct. 5, 2023, the doctor, her husband and her mother-in-law all decided to eat at Raglan Road in the Disney Springs shopping center.
Gov. DeSantis marks 1 year since signing bill to abolish Disney district
Read full article: Gov. DeSantis marks 1 year since signing bill to abolish Disney districtFlorida Gov. Ron DeSantis held a news conference Thursday morning in Lake Buena Vista to mark one year since he signed a bill to abolish Disney’s special taxing district in Orange and Osceola counties.
RunDisney reveals foodie themes for 2024 Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend
Read full article: RunDisney reveals foodie themes for 2024 Wine & Dine Half Marathon WeekendAs Walt Disney World prepares to kick off its 2024 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend, the park is already preparing for a popular fall multi-day race event.
Disney Springs eateries feeling the love: Check out what some are offering for Valentine’s Day
Read full article: Disney Springs eateries feeling the love: Check out what some are offering for Valentine’s DayWith Valentine’s Day this Wednesday, some may have already booked a table at one of Florida’s most romantic restaurants.
‘Jazz Jazz Jazz:’ Man accused of drunkenly slapping waitress at Disney resort
Read full article: ‘Jazz Jazz Jazz:’ Man accused of drunkenly slapping waitress at Disney resortMunro appeared at the restaurant wearing swim trunks and a t-shirt, which violated the restaurant's dress code, the affidavit says.
Central Florida tourism district board unveils new name for Reedy Creek Fire Department
Read full article: Central Florida tourism district board unveils new name for Reedy Creek Fire DepartmentThe Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD) has announced the new name for the Reedy Creek Fire Department.
Disney and Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Drawn to Life’ hits major milestone anniversary
Read full article: Disney and Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Drawn to Life’ hits major milestone anniversary“Drawn to Life,” the dazzling live theatrical production presented by Cirque du Soleil and Disney, has hit a major milestone in its run at Disney Springs.
‘Festival de Fresas’ returning to Jaleo Disney Springs for strawberry season
Read full article: ‘Festival de Fresas’ returning to Jaleo Disney Springs for strawberry seasonJaleo at Disney Springs is welcoming back strawberry season, unveiling the “Festival de Fresas” in partnership with local strawberry farm, Southern Hill Farms.
Disney and Cirque’s ‘Drawn to Life’ evolves with mesmerizing new finale
Read full article: Disney and Cirque’s ‘Drawn to Life’ evolves with mesmerizing new finaleIn a celebration of its second anniversary, Drawn to Life, the collaboration between Cirque du Soleil and Disney, has unveiled an all-new finale.
Florida man sues Reedy Creek over elevator ride at Disney Springs parking garage
Read full article: Florida man sues Reedy Creek over elevator ride at Disney Springs parking garageThe lawsuit says that the man — Michael Johnson — took the elevator in July 2022 during a trip to Disney Springs with his duaghter.
‘Debt of gratitude,’ Families of fallen first responders attend Disney World retreat
Read full article: ‘Debt of gratitude,’ Families of fallen first responders attend Disney World retreatMore than 350 families of fallen first responders are taking part in a healing retreat at Walt Disney World Resort.
Gary Sinise Foundation hosts more than 700 families of fallen military heroes at Disney World
Read full article: Gary Sinise Foundation hosts more than 700 families of fallen military heroes at Disney WorldMore than 700 families of fallen military heroes are being honored at Walt Disney World Resort ahead of the holiday season.
Reedy Creek no more: DeSantis-appointed Disney district unveils new website, logo
Read full article: Reedy Creek no more: DeSantis-appointed Disney district unveils new website, logoSome 10 months after Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a law to rename Disney’s special taxing district the “Central Florida Tourism Oversight District” and appointed a new board to oversee it, the district has unveiled a new website URL.
DeSantis appointees seek Disney communications about governor, laws in fight over district
Read full article: DeSantis appointees seek Disney communications about governor, laws in fight over districtAppointees of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis are seeking communications between Disney and local media, as well as documents related to the company’s position on Florida’s so-called “Don’t Say Gay” law.
Florida man who lost leg dropped 175 pounds, runs 5K at Walt Disney World
Read full article: Florida man who lost leg dropped 175 pounds, runs 5K at Walt Disney WorldZach Bernstein lost his leg in 2022 after a shelf fell on his left foot, shattering all but seven bones and causing permanent nerve damage.
New video shows how Disney, Florida officials caught a bear at Magic Kingdom
Read full article: New video shows how Disney, Florida officials caught a bear at Magic KingdomNewly released video shows state wildlife officials trying to capture a black bear that wandered into the Magic Kingdom theme park at Walt Disney World last month, an incident that forced the temporary closure of several rides.
Disney attorneys want to question former administrator in lawsuit with DeSantis appointees
Read full article: Disney attorneys want to question former administrator in lawsuit with DeSantis appointeesDisney attorneys want to question a previous administrator of the Walt Disney World governing district as part of its defense against a lawsuit brought by a board made up of appointees of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Woman sues Disney after ‘painful wedgie’ at Typhoon Lagoon waterpark
Read full article: Woman sues Disney after ‘painful wedgie’ at Typhoon Lagoon waterparkThe lawsuit says that the woman visited the park for her birthday and decided to ride The Humunga Kowabunga — a large, high-speed waterslide featuring a near-vertical five-story drop.
These are the 50 smallest places in Florida. Can you guess which ranks No. 1?
Read full article: These are the 50 smallest places in Florida. Can you guess which ranks No. 1?The U.S. Census Bureau released its population data for 2022, revealing the Florida cities and towns with the smallest populations.
Central Florida tourism board promises alternative to Disney perks for workers
Read full article: Central Florida tourism board promises alternative to Disney perks for workersThe Gov. DeSantis-appointed board overseeing Walt Disney World’s property says it is working to find an alternative to benefits for workers and retirees that includes Disney passes and discounts.
Free Disney World passes are latest front in war between Disney and DeSantis appointees
Read full article: Free Disney World passes are latest front in war between Disney and DeSantis appointeesGov. Ron DeSantis’ appointees to a board that oversees Disney World’s governing district have launched a battle against the company on a new front — free passes and discounts for employees.
Disney countersues in Florida court after oversight board pushes for judgment
Read full article: Disney countersues in Florida court after oversight board pushes for judgmentThe Walt Disney Company on Thursday filed a countersuit against the DeSantis-appointed board overseeing Disney property in Florida court, alleging breach of contract.
Disney parks revenue up in new report, but Walt Disney World income down
Read full article: Disney parks revenue up in new report, but Walt Disney World income downThe Walt Disney Company saw revenue continue to grow in the third quarter of the year, the company reported Wednesday, with theme park income and revenue up around the globe — except at Walt Disney World.
Artist’s Palette rolls out new food offerings at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Read full article: Artist’s Palette rolls out new food offerings at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & SpaSome delicious new food and drinks have raced into Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. On Wednesday, Disney rolled out some new offerings to the menu at The Artist’s Palette. The quick service location offers something for everyone during its breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Judge refuses to dismiss lawsuit against Disney’s efforts to neutralize governing district takeover
Read full article: Judge refuses to dismiss lawsuit against Disney’s efforts to neutralize governing district takeoverA judge in Florida has refused to dismiss a lawsuit brought by Gov. Ron DeSantis appointees against Disney’s efforts to neutralize a takeover of Disney World’s governing district by the Florida governor.
Lake Buena Vista, Bay Lake keep property tax in place to keep off-duty deputies
Read full article: Lake Buena Vista, Bay Lake keep property tax in place to keep off-duty deputiesLeaders from Lake Buena Vista and Bay Lake met Thursday to discuss property tax changes affecting off-duty law enforcement services.
State-run board overseeing Disney property OKs new contract for fire department
Read full article: State-run board overseeing Disney property OKs new contract for fire departmentThe board overseeing Disney World’s taxing district voted Wednesday to approve changes affecting first responders and property owners.
Jacksonville-based pizza chain opening first Central Florida location. Here’s where, when
Read full article: Jacksonville-based pizza chain opening first Central Florida location. Here’s where, whenThe Jacksonville-based chain V Pizza is getting ready to open its first Central Florida location at the start of August.
Disney CEO Bob Iger discusses future of theme parks
Read full article: Disney CEO Bob Iger discusses future of theme parksA day after the Walt Disney Company voted unanimously to extend CEO Robert Iger’s contract through 2026, the executive gave an interview dispelling any concerns about seemingly lower theme park attendance.
Disney extends CEO Bob Iger's contract 2 more years through 2026
Read full article: Disney extends CEO Bob Iger's contract 2 more years through 2026Bob Iger will remain as CEO of The Walt Disney Co. through the end of 2026, agreeing to a two-year contract extension that will give the entertainment and theme park company some breathing room to find his successor.
DeSantis proposes Disney trial schedule that puts start date in 2025, after elections
Read full article: DeSantis proposes Disney trial schedule that puts start date in 2025, after electionsAttorneys for Gov. Ron DeSantis have asked that a trial involving Disney be postponed until the middle of 2025, well after the GOP presidential nomination race wraps up and voters have picked a winner in the November 2024 general election.
Disney lawsuit judge removes himself from case but not for reasons cited by DeSantis
Read full article: Disney lawsuit judge removes himself from case but not for reasons cited by DeSantisA federal judge overseeing the First Amendment lawsuit that Walt Disney Parks filed against Gov. Ron DeSantis and others is disqualifying himself, but not because of bias claims made by the Florida governor.
Lead actress in Disney’s Cirque du Soleil show hopes to inspire other multicultural children
Read full article: Lead actress in Disney’s Cirque du Soleil show hopes to inspire other multicultural children“Drawn to Life” is the story of Walt Disney animation’s art brought to life with live acrobatics through the eyes of a young girl named Julie.
Disney’s Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser hotel to close later this year
Read full article: Disney’s Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser hotel to close later this yearThe resort hotel allows guests to enjoy a two-night experience where they can journey through many of the features of the Star Wars movie series, including meeting characters from the series, exploring a starcruiser or taking in an “exquisite view of space” from their own suite.
Disney scraps plans for new Florida campus as fight with Gov. Ron DeSantis continues
Read full article: Disney scraps plans for new Florida campus as fight with Gov. Ron DeSantis continuesThe Walt Disney Co. says it's scrapping plans to build a new campus in central Florida and relocate 2,000 employees from Southern California to work in digital technology, finance and product development.
DeSantis’ Disney district board: ‘We are going to have to raise taxes’
Read full article: DeSantis’ Disney district board: ‘We are going to have to raise taxes’Gov. Ron DeSantis’ hand-picked board members told concerned business owners their taxes would be raised to help pay for lawyers during the governor’s ongoing fight with Disney.
Refreshed cabins coming to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Read full article: Refreshed cabins coming to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & CampgroundWalt Disney World Resort and Disney Vacation Club announced proposed plans to bring refreshed cabin hideaways to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.
DeSantis-appointed Disney district board meets to ensure company ‘held accountable’
Read full article: DeSantis-appointed Disney district board meets to ensure company ‘held accountable’Changes could be in the works for Walt Disney World as Gov. Ron DeSantis’ newly appointed board overseeing the theme park’s taxing district is meeting on Wednesday.
DeSantis’ bid to nullify Disney-Reedy Creek deal added to Florida bill. Here’s what it says
Read full article: DeSantis’ bid to nullify Disney-Reedy Creek deal added to Florida bill. Here’s what it saysA plan to get rid of an agreement the Walt Disney Company made with the former governing body that oversaw Walt Disney World property is now in the Florida Senate.