Florida Department of Transportation Cancels Ramp Into Disney Springs

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March 9, 2023

The echelon interchange that was intended to alleviate traffic backups near Disney Springs on SR-535 has been scrapped

The Florida Department of Transportation canceled a project intended to alleviate traffic backups for those attempting to travel to Disney Springs.

Spectrum News 13 reports the planned echelon interchange project, which would have provided a fly-over ramp for those looking to travel from northbound SR-535 onto Hotel Boulevard, has been canceled. The ramp was intended to alleviate traffic congestion at this busy Disney Springs area intersection.

The land for the project has been re-purposed to provide a loop ramp to connect SR-535 to I-4 westbound. While this will eliminate the need to cross traffic to get from 535 to Westbound I-4, it will likely not impact the congestion near Hotel Boulevard.

This project will provide additional improvements to the traffic flow of I-4 in the area, such as a lengthened I-4 west exit ramp and a new westbound express lane.

Ready to book your next magical vacation? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel, my services are provided at no additional cost when you book your Disney vacation package through me.

Get Ready To Stand Out With The New A Goofy Movie Powerline Collection Coming To WonderCon!

By

Ana Leal

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March 9, 2023

Get Ready To Stand Out With The New A Goofy Movie Powerline Collection Coming To WonderCon!

It’s time to dance along with your musical idol while rocking this A Goofy Movie Powerline Collection coming to Funko WonderCon 2023! The whole collection is electrifying, it will make you stand out for sure.

A GOOFY MOVIE LOUNGEFLY BACKPACK

This backpack features Goofy, Max and Powerline having an amazing time dancing! The purple tones give the perfect contrast to the characters and it even glows in the dark! We love it.

POWERLINE FUNKO

You will also find two different Powerline Funko Pop! at WonderCon 2023. One regular style and a diamond edition! They are both a must have in your collection.

PINOCCHIO LOUNGEFLY COLLECTION

You will also find some Pinocchio pieces at WonderCon like these adorable backpack and wallet featuring the cuckoo clock shape with Gepetto, Pinocchio, Figaro and Jiminy Cricket on the front. They are adorable pieces perfect for anyone into Disney classics.

EVIL QUEEN FUNKO

You will also find The Queen from Snow White Soda Pop Funko!, a great addition to your collection.

All of these pieces will be available at WonderCon from March 24 – 26 at the Convention Center in Anaheim, Ca. They will also be available at Loungefly.com!

Disney CEO Bob Iger Wants to Improve Guest Experiences

By

Chip

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March 9, 2023

Walt Disney Company CEO Wants to Improve on Guest Experiences at the Disney Theme Parks

Today during a question and answer session at the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media, and Telecom Conference Disney CEO Bob Iger talked a little about improving the guest experience at the Disney Theme Parks.

Iger said that Disney has been a little too aggressive with the pricing at the parks and needs to retain the brand value of accessibility.

“It’s tempting to let more and more people in,” he said in the Q&A, “but if the guest satisfaction level is going down because of crowding, that doesn’t work. We have to figure out how we reduce crowding and listen to consumers and continue to adjust.”

It was mentioned last month at Disney’s First Quarter Earnings call that Bob Iger and Josh D’Amaro got together to discuss expansions at the Disney Theme Parks. Now that Tron Lightcycle Run is complete, Moana’s Journey of Water in EPCOT and Mickey’s Toontown in Disneyland are about halfway done or more Disney is looking at the future of the Disney Theme Parks.

However, it was also reported that Bob would be cutting some 7000 jobs across the company as a cost-cutting measure. Right now local unions and Disney World are in a stalemate on how to approach raises for Cast Members.

We are interested to see how Bob plans on handling expansion, guest satisfaction and keeping the Disney Cast Members happy.

Disney Cruise Lines Lighthouse Point Opening to Guests in 2024

By

Chris B

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March 9, 2023

The new Lighthouse Point Bahamas destination will begin welcoming Disney Cruise Line guests next summer

Disney Cruise Line guests will soon have a new destination offering to choose from. Lighthouse Point, located in the Bahamas on the island of Eleuthera, is described by Disney as a “vibrant island retreat” that “will be a unique celebration of Bahamian culture brought to life with the quality and service of a Disney vacation.”

Lighthouse Point will feature engaging activities such as a kids club, 20 premium family cabanas, an expansive family beach, a family water play area, and an adults-only beach.

The aesthetics of Lighthouse Point incorporate vibrant colors and distinctive architecture. Conservation is at the forefront of Lighthouse Point, with 90% of the electricity needed to run the resort coming from a solar array. Other conservation-minded initiatives include a pier that was designed in such a way that dredging was not required and elevated walkways that are intended to minimize the impact on the local landscape.

Kevin Thomas, creative director, Walt Disney Imagineering, noted “We’re focused on low-density, sustainable development that protects and preserves the environment, allowing the site’s biodiversity to shine.”

Families will find their visit to Lighthouse Point to be as hassle-free as possible, with amenities such as towels, chairs, umbrellas, and lunch included in their visit. Tram transportation will also be available to assist guests in getting around the island.

Lighthouse Point will be available on select sailing beginning in the Summer of 2024. Details on inaugural itineraries and additional information about signature entertainment, dining, retail, and excursions will be released at a later date.

Ready to book your next (or first) Disney cruise? Want to check out Lighthouse Point in person? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel, my services are provided at no additional cost when you book your Disney Cruise Line vacation through me.

Tron Lightcycle Run Post Show Area is Now Open

By

Joey Tarsan

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March 9, 2023

TRON Lightcycle Run’s Curtain is Down

TRON Lightcycle Run riders can now see what’s behind the mystery curtain at the exit of Magic Kingdoms’ newest coming soon attraction.

Disney has allowed Cast Members and Annual Passholders previews of the new TRON Lightcycle Run attraction. Guests exiting the ride were greeted by a mysteriously curtained-off section that had most thinking would be a gift shop.

During yesterday’s visit, the curtain was removed and the Enterprise post-show area was revealed.

Welcome Team Green

After exiting the ride and gathering your belongings from the lockers inside you exit into the area that welcomes Team Green.

The walls and ceiling are lit up with glowing green details and the E for Enterprise is also featured on the wall.

In the alcoves along the wall, there is artwork on the wall.

In the center of the space sits a futuristic TRON Lightcycle with glowing green details.

At the base of the Lightcycle, there is a Team Green plaque with “Presented by Enterprise” on it.

The top of the Lightcycle also features the glowing green E for Enterprise.

Lots of Photo Opportunities

The TRON Lightcycle has a four-sided barrier around it allowing for multiple guests to get in close for that perfect picture opportunity.

The wall behind the Lightcycle features a large TRON Lightcycle Run billboard-style artwork with the Enterprise name.

We were able to see the glowing green details during a sunny day but at night this area will really glow!

This area offers some great places to capture that perfect souvenir photo. If you are wondering where you can actually find TRON souvenirs, pop over to the Space Mountain Giftshop when it re-opens. It is currently receiving an update and refresh.

If you have any questions about the ride vehicles or are wondering if you will be able to fit or ride comfortably please check out our article on Chip and Company.

Check out more in our video below.

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Im excited to have another thrill ride at Disney. It seemed like it took forever to get here but the TRON Lightcycle Run attraction will be open to the public starting April 4th, 2023 in Disney’s Magic Kingdom theme park.

Have you gotten to enter the grid yet? Do you plan on checking out the TRON Lightcycle Run on your next visit? Let us know in the comments below!

make sure you subscribe to Chip and Company on all social media and check back often so we can keep you up to date on all the latest Disney news.

Disney World Testing Happily Ever After Fireworks Tonight

By

Chip

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March 9, 2023

Disney World Will Be Testing Happily Ever After Fireworks Tonight

Tonight, March 9th, Disney will be testing fireworks at the Magic Kingdom between 11 p.m. and 2 a.m. Disney sent out this community update to apologize to their Neighbors and Guests for this late-night inconvenience.

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Happily Ever After is expected to return to the Magic Kingdom on April 3rd with Cast Member Previews on March 14th.

Also announced EPCOT Forever will be returning for a limited time starting on April 3rd as it was announced at the D23 Expo, Harmonious will be replaced with an all-new show sometime in 2023.

Disney Union Announces “Rally For A Raise” at Walt Disney World on March 16th

By

Chip

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March 9, 2023

Local Disney Union Announces “Rally For A Raise” at Walt Disney World on March 16th

The Service Trades Council Union has announced a ‘Rally for a Raise’ demonstration next week in response to Walt Disney World’s refusal to budge on wage increases for Cast Members.

The rally is set to take place Thursday, March 16th, near the parking lot for Magic Kingdom Cast Members on Reams Road.

Disney Workers are fighting for an $18 per hour minimum wage increase in 2023.

Contract negotiations between the Disney Union representing Walt Disney World Cast Members and Walt Disney World have been at a stalemate for several weeks following a breakdown in talks between both sides.

On February 15th, Disney made a new contract proposal. The Union made it clear to Disney that their proposal is unacceptable.

For Cooks, Dishwashers, and Housekeepers who will get an initial raise of over $1, Disney proposed to reduce the retroactive pay to only $1.

For example, under Disney’s new proposal, a Housekeeper who will get an initial raise from $17 to $20 would not get retroactive pay calculated on the full $3 raise. Instead, Disney proposed that retroactive pay will be calculated on only $1.

The Union will never accept Disney’s proposed reduction of retroactive pay. We will fight until the Company proposes the full retroactive pay owed to all Cast Members.

In addition, Disney failed to agree to the Union’s proposed minimum of $18 in 2023. Disney did propose a $1 raise on the date the Union’s members vote to accept this proposal. That would mean a minimum of $17 in 2023 for current Cast Members.

QSR, Seaters, Convention Guides and Food Handlers would all get only $1 per year under Disney’s new proposal: $16 retroactive to Oct. 2022 and only $17 when the Union’s members vote to accept. The Union does not agree to this proposal.

Disney News Highlights: New Resorts near Disney World, “it’s a small world” Adds New Doll, Eggstravaganza Returning to Disneyland, How Women Create Magic and Innovation at Disney

By

Greg Gately

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March 9, 2023

Disney News Highlights: New Resorts near Disney World, “it’s a small world” Adds New Doll, Eggstravaganza Returning to Disneyland, How Women Create Magic and Innovation at Disney.

Two New Orlando Resorts Near Disney World Now Accepting Reservations There are two new Orlando resorts new Walt Disney World and they are now accepting reservations! Evermore Orlando Resort and Luxury Conrad Orlando are accepting reservations for early 2024.

The Force Is Strong With These Princess Leia Minnie Ears! A new Princess Leia Minnie Ears design has been released as part of the Star Wars Women of the Galaxy Collection celebrating strong women from a galaxy far far away! We found them at Magic Kingdom for $54.99, and they are also available at shopDisney.com.

Photos & Video: New doll in a wheelchair added to ‘it’s a small world’ Photos & Video: New doll in a wheelchair added to ‘it’s a small world’. Embark on a whimsical boat ride past a jubilant chorus of children from around the globe. Disney is committed to celebrating an inclusive, respectful world. We create authentic and unforgettable stories, characters, experiences, and products that capture the imagination of our global audiences.

Ashley Eckstein & friends Hosting Panel at Disney Springs for Women’s History Month Ashley Eckstein is hosting a panel at Disney Springs to celebrate Women’s History Month! She’s also celebrating the launch of the new Star Wars Women of the Galaxy Collection.

Eggstravaganza Returns to Disneyland this March Are you ready for a hippity hopping good time at the Disneyland Resort? This month, Eggstravaganza is returning to Disneyland!

How Women Create Magic Through Innovation at Disney Parks Today is International Women’s Day and we are celebrating by sharing how women create magic through innovation at the Disney parks! Disney shared all about six incredible women who create magic at the global Disney parks.

Disney News Highlights

Disney’s Female Veterinarians Take Lead Role Caring for Creatures Great and Small If you’re a fan of the Disney+ series, Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, you may notice that there are a lot of women on the show. Female veterinarians take a leading role in managing the health and wellbeing of more than 5,000 animals at Walt Disney World Resort. And while many people may believe that most veterinarians are male, women actually outnumber men in this profession!

Diego Luna is ready to say goodbye to ‘Andor’ after two seasons Diego Luna recently sat down with Variety to discuss the second and final season of the Disney+ series Andor. Luna reflected upon the experience and was grateful to be saying goodbye to the character he originated in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Luna talked about grounding himself in projects when not on set, and explained the mental toll filming can have on actors.

Disney News Highlights: New Resorts near Disney World, "it's a small world" Adds New Doll, Eggstravaganza Returning to Disneyland, How Women Create Magic and Innovation at Disney

New Women’s History Month PhotoPass Magic Shots featuring Mary Blair, Leota Toombs, and Harriet Burns

By

Sara

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March 9, 2023

New Women’s History Month PhotoPass Magic Shots featuring Mary Blair, Leota Toombs, and Harriet Burns

Guests visiting Disney World can celebrate Women’s History Month with new Women’s History Month PhotoPass Magic Shots. These new Magic Shots feature Mary Blair, Leota Toombs, and Harriet Burns.

Near Haunted Mansion, you’ll find a Magic Shot featuring Leota Toombs. Leota served as the model for Madame Leota in the Haunted Mansion attraction.

Outside of Adventureland is a Magic Shot featuring Harriet Burns. Harriet was the first female Imagineer and she applied feathers to the birds in the Enchanted Tiki Room!

And near “it’s a small world” is a Magic Shot featuring Mary Blair. Mary defined the color palette and attraction façade for the ride.

As you grab these photos at #MagicKingdom through March 31, be sure to take a look at the back of each prop for more info on each of these incredible Disney Legends!

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Want to visit Disney World this spring? Contact me today to start planning your trip! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Say Cheers With This Finding Nemo Wine Glass!

By

Ana Leal

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March 8, 2023

Say Cheers With This Finding Nemo Wine Glass!

Relax after a day of work with your favorite wine in this Finding Nemo Wine Glass created LoveAlwaysDesignsUS on Etsy for $12.75. You can order yours here!

We are obsessed with this design featuring a seagull from Finding Nemo known for saying “mine, mine, mine” all the time, but in this case you will be the one saying “wine, wine, wine!.” The glass can hold up to 21oz and is the artwork is made with high grade permanent vinyl.

This Mickey Mouse Apple Watch Charger Cover Is A Must Have!

By

Ana Leal

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March 8, 2023

This Mickey Mouse Apple Watch Charger Cover Is A Must Have!

This Mickey Mouse Apple Watch Charger Cover is a must have in your home! It’s created by OzertEngineering on Etsy for $4.40 and is so magical. You can order yours here!

The design is very simple but it will add tons of magic to your tech accessories! It’s super cute and you can even request an specific color, so you are not stuck with just black.

New Disney100 Decorations & Treats Installed in Main Street Confectionery at the Magic Kingdom

By

Greg Gately

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March 8, 2023

New Disney100 Decorations & Treats Installed in Main Street Confectionery at the Magic Kingdom. The Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary is still going, at least until the end of this month. March 31st marks the end of the 18-month celebration, but that doesn’t mean we stop celebrating here at Disney World. We have the Disney100 to look forward to.

Although no information has been released by Disney officially, the writing is on the wall or in the case on the banners popping up. Disney100 is coming to Disney World, and we should learn more about it soon. In the meantime, we have the merchandise that was released a month or so ago, and now we have installations starting to show up. Like the one at Main Street Confectionary on Main Street USA.

New Disney100 Decorations

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Satisfy Your Sweet (or Savory) Tooth

Grab a fun snack on the go when you choose from new offerings at Main Street Confectionary. Cool off with our Glacier Bar, where you can order deliciously flavored frozen drinks––adorned with fan-favorite candies.

Looking for a bit more crunch? Experience popcorn like never before at the Kernel Kitchen where you can create your own popcorn mix. Select from 4 popcorn flavors, add your favorite flavor chocolate drizzle, and 2 or 3 candy mix-ins to complete a truly personal popcorn experience.