Tropical Storm Helene Forms, Threatening Florida with Hurricane Conditions

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September 24, 2024

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Tropical Storm Helene Forms, Threatening Florida with Hurricane Conditions; Disney World and Universal Orlando on Alert

Tropical Storm Helene has officially formed in the Caribbean Sea, escalating concerns for the Florida Gulf Coast, including popular tourist destinations like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. As the storm strengthens, Hurricane and Storm Surge Watches have been issued for various regions in Florida.

Forecast models predict Helene could make landfall as a hurricane by Thursday, bringing potential risks of dangerous storm surges, heavy rainfall, and powerful winds. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has cautioned residents and visitors to prepare for potential flooding and power outages.

While the exact trajectory of Helene is still uncertain, its proximity to Central Florida has prompted theme parks like Disney World and Universal Orlando to remain vigilant. Both resorts have extensive hurricane preparedness plans in place and are closely monitoring the storm’s progress.

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Guests planning visits to the parks in the coming days should be aware of potential weather impacts and consider adjusting their itineraries if necessary. It’s advisable to check for updates on park operations and any potential closures or modifications to schedules.

As Tropical Storm Helene continues to develop, the NHC is urging residents and visitors to take necessary precautions and stay informed about the latest forecasts and advisories. The safety of everyone in the path of the storm is paramount.

Tropical Storm Helene, now formed, is projected to intensify. As always, Florida will prepare for the worst and hope for the best.

We already have nearly 18,000 linemen staged (and more en route), and are ready with search and rescue and roadway clearing crews.

Stay tuned to… pic.twitter.com/lJI5miDkvN
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) September 24, 2024

For the most up-to-date information visit the National Hurricane Center.

Sail Into Serenity With This Mickey Mouse Steamboat Willie Weighted Plush!

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Ana Leal

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September 24, 2024

Sail Into Serenity With This Mickey Mouse Steamboat Willie Weighted Plush!

Set sail for sweet dreams with the Mickey Mouse Steamboat Willie Weighted Plush! This adorable and huggable plush is inspired by Mickey’s iconic first role in Walt Disney’s Steamboat Willie. With its soft terry-like fur, plush details, and embroidered features, this plush is sure to become a favorite companion for children and adults alike.

This limited-edition plush is available at Disney Springs and online at the Disney Store. Priced at $39.99, it’s the perfect gift for any Disney fan.

What makes this plush extra special? It comes with a removable 2 1/2 pound weight, providing a firm, soothing reassurance that can help promote relaxation and sleep. Whether you’re looking for a bedtime companion, a naptime buddy, or a travel companion, Mickey is sure to steer you towards a cozy and calm experience.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to bring home a piece of Disney history!

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New Menu Items Added to Morimoto Asia Street Food Window

By

Catherine

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September 24, 2024

Morimoto Asia Street Food Unveils Exciting New Menu Items

Morimoto Asia Street Food, the beloved fast-casual eatery known for its gourmet Pan-Asian cuisine, has just expanded its menu with a tantalizing array of new dishes!

We were invited to a delicious tasting of the new menu and really enjoyed the new offerings. The latest additions include sushi, a first for the popular spot, as well as innovative meal combinations that are sure to satisfy cravings!

Highlights of the new menu include:

Craving a Korean twist on a classic American treat? Look no further than the Korean Corn Dog! This delightful dish features a savory beef hot dog and gooey mozzarella cheese wrapped in a golden, crispy Panko breadcrumb crust. Served with a tangy Sriracha ketchup and a hint of sweet honey mustard, it’s a fun and flavorful fusion that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.

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If you’re craving a hearty and authentic Korean experience, Look no further than the Bulgogi Kimchi Ramen. This flavorful dish features tender, sweet soy-marinated beef swimming in a rich and aromatic duck broth. A tangy kick of house-pickled kimchi and the bold heat of gochujang sauce add depth and complexity to every spoonful. Topped with fresh scallions and a perfectly seasoned egg, this ramen is a delicious fusion of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Sushi Rolls: Indulge in delectable shrimp tempura sushi rolls, expertly crafted with fresh ingredients and flavorful seasonings.

Taiwanese-style Fried Chicken “Gee Pie”. This dish offers marinated, tender chicken with your choice of two exciting flavor profiles: curry spice or Beijing spice. It’s the perfect option for those who love a flavorful crunch.

BBQ Pork Buns: Delight in the soft, fluffy buns filled with flavorful BBQ pork, a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Morimoto Asia Street Food or new to the eatery, these exciting new menu items are sure to impress. Visit today and experience the delicious flavors of Pan-Asian cuisine!

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New Disney Lacers Step into Ever After at Disney Springs!

By

Ana Leal

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September 24, 2024

New Disney Lacers Step into Ever After at Disney Springs!

Disney Springs has recently introduced a new collectible that’s sure to delight fans of all ages: Disney Lacers. These miniature sneakers feature colorful allover art of beloved Disney characters, making them a must-have for any Disney collector.

Disney Lacers are currently available at Disney Springs for $16.99 each. If you’re unable to visit Disney Springs, you can also purchase them online at the Disney Store.

The Disney Lacers are available in two series, each with a variety of exciting characters to discover. Series One includes iconic figures like Stitch, Minnie Mouse, Mickey Mouse, Dumbo, and the Disney Princesses, along with a mystery character.

Series Two features Snow White, the Three Little Pigs, Peter Pan, Hercules battling Hydra, Maleficent in fairy and dragon form, and another mystery character.

The excitement of unboxing a Disney Lacer lies in the surprise element. You won’t know which character you’ll receive until you open the box, adding to the thrill of collecting. These miniature sneakers are not only fun to collect but also make great display pieces for any Disney fan’s home.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to add these adorable collectibles to your Disney collection!

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Behind the Seeds: Glimmering Greenhouses Walking Tour Coming to Epcot

By

Chris B

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September 24, 2024

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This holiday season, Epcot is bringing extra sparkle to its popular Behind the Seeds tour with a festive twist: the Behind the Seeds: Glimmering Greenhouses walking tour at The Land Pavilion. Running from November 29 through December 30, 2024, this limited-time experience invites guests of all ages to explore the magic behind Epcot’s lush greenhouses, all decked out in brilliant holiday lights.

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For just $45 per person (plus tax), you’ll embark on a one-hour journey through the glowing greenhouses to learn about the crops that bring festive flavors to our favorite holiday traditions. Guests will also discover innovative sustainable growing techniques used in Disney’s hydroponic greenhouses, and enjoy the vibrant seasonal light displays that make this experience extra special.

Tours are available at 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM, so you can enjoy the dazzling displays at twilight. While the traditional Behind the Seeds tour will continue during the day, this holiday version adds an extra touch of cheer for the season.

Behind the Seeds: Glimmering Greenhouses Walking Tour Coming to Epcot

Reservations for the Glimmering Greenhouses tour are highly recommended due to limited availability. You can easily book your spot online or through the My Disney Experience app. Same-day reservations and walk-ins may be available but are not guaranteed, so planning ahead is key. Make sure to check in 15 minutes before your tour begins at the lower level of The Land Pavilion, near the attraction exit. Valid park admission is required in order to enjoy this tour.

Haunted Mansion Madame Leota Petit Cake from Disney Springs

By

Chris B

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September 24, 2024

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The Chip and Co team recently indulged in the Haunted Mansion Madame Leota Petit Cake from Amorette’s Patisserie at Disney Springs, and let’s just say—there’s nothing scary about this delightful treat! Inspired by the iconic Madame Leota from the Haunted Mansion, this cake is both a visual and culinary masterpiece.

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For $22.00, this tasty creation is a chocolate layer cake filled with a rich caramel mousse and perfectly balanced with the crunch of crushed pretzels. The combination of textures and flavors was fantastic, offering a decadent yet satisfying bite with every forkful. As expected from Amorette’s, the cake itself was incredibly moist, and the attention to detail in the design made it as fun to admire as it was to eat.

Whether you’re a Haunted Mansion fan or just looking for a unique treat at Disney Springs, this Madame Leota Petit Cake is a must-try! It’s the perfect way to add a little spooky flair to your sweet tooth.

Harry Styles ‘Fantasia’ x Pleasing Pop-Up Experience Coming to Disney Springs

By

Chris B

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September 24, 2024

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Harry Styles fans and Disney lovers, get ready for a magical collaboration! The highly anticipated Disney Fantasia x Pleasing pop-up experience is coming to Disney Springs, offering an enchanting fusion of creativity, fashion, and classic Disney magic. Announced by Pleasing on Instagram with the words, “With the flick of a wand and a flourish of creativity, a classic takes on a whole new life,” this collection promises to bring a fresh take on Disney’s iconic Fantasia.

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The 30-piece collection will officially launch on Saturday, September 28, at two Pleasing pop-up experiences—one located at Disney Springs in Florida and another in Houston, Texas. Fans who can’t make it to either location can still get their hands on a curated assortment at select Disney Stores worldwide. Plus, starting Friday, October 4, the full collection will be available online at Pleasing.com and DisneyStore.com.

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The Disney Fantasia x Pleasing Shop in Disney Springs will be located at 1486 E Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, and will be open from 10 AM to 11 PM, Monday through Sunday. This unique pop-up is a must-visit for anyone looking to blend Harry Styles’ signature Pleasing brand with the timeless magic of Fantasia.

Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on this limited-time experience that combines style, creativity, and Disney enchantment!

Disability Access Service Validity Period Adjusted for Disney World & Disneyland

By

Chris B

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September 24, 2024

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Disney has once again adjusted its Disability Access Service (DAS) at Walt Disney World and Disneyland, once again adjusting the validity period and narrowing the criteria for eligibility. Last year, DAS was valid for 60 days, and earlier this year, it was extended to 120 days. Now, the validity period has been adjusted again to either 240 days or the length of the ticket, whichever is shorter.

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The updated language on Disney’s website makes it clear that DAS is now specifically intended to “accommodate only those Guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism or similar disorder, are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time.” This more restrictive definition excludes many individuals with other medical conditions who previously qualified for DAS but will now need to seek alternative accommodations.

The new validity rules are equally strict based upon the current wording on the DAS information pages. Annual Passholders may benefit from the 240-day maximum period without needing frequent re-registration. However, guests using date-based tickets will need to reapply for DAS each time they visit, as the service will be valid only for the duration of their ticket.

These changes are mirrored at Disneyland Resort, which follows the same terms and eligibility criteria. Guests who qualify for DAS must complete a registration via live video chat before their visit (at Disneyland, guests can speak via Live Video Chat up to 30 days before visit or in-park; an in-park option for qualification is not available at Walt Disney World). Once inside the park, they can request return times for attractions and enjoy other activities while waiting for their turn.

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Additionally, Disney has put firm measures in place to prevent misuse of the DAS program. If a guest is found to have provided false information to obtain DAS, they face a permanent ban from Walt Disney World and Disneyland, and any purchased tickets or passes will be forfeited without refund. It’s also important to note that DAS is only valid at the resort where it was issued, meaning DAS from Walt Disney World cannot be used at Disneyland, and vice versa.

Tropical Storm Watch Issued for Central Florida as PTC-9 Strengthens

By

Chip

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September 24, 2024

Tropical Storm Watch Issued for Central Florida as PTC-9 Strengthens

Tropical Storm Helene is likely to form this week as Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine moves through the Caribbean Sea and enters the Gulf of Mexico, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC). Forecast models suggest it could hit the Big Bend area as a major hurricane later this week.

The NHC has warned that PTC-9 is expected to bring heavy rain accumulations of 3 to 6 inches, with isolated areas potentially experiencing up to 10 inches. This significant rainfall could lead to widespread flooding, some of which may be considerable, in the southeastern U.S.

As of 8 a.m. Tuesday, Hurricane Hunters were actively gathering data on the disturbance, currently located about 150 miles west of Grand Cayman. The system has maximum sustained winds of 35 mph and a minimum central pressure of 1001 mb. The NHC anticipates it may become a named storm today and a hurricane by Wednesday.

There’s a near 100% chance of formation within the next 48 hours as the system traverses the eastern Gulf of Mexico. It is expected to move northwest today, followed by a faster north to northeastern turn on Wednesday and Thursday.

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In light of the developing storm, the NHC has expanded tropical storm watches to several Central Florida counties, including Lake, Orange, Seminole, Osceola, and Sumter. A tropical storm watch signifies the possibility of tropical storm conditions within the designated area, typically within 48 hours.

It’s crucial to note that even though current models don’t show the center of PTC-9 directly passing through Central Florida, the region can still expect to experience significant impacts from the storm. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and stay updated on the latest forecasts and advisories.

For the most up-to-date information visit the National Hurricane Center.

Explore the Fall Flora of Disneyland

By

Sara

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September 24, 2024

Explore the Fall Flora of Disneyland

Explore the enchanting Halloween décor throughout Disneyland, including stunning fall floral displays. From vibrant pumpkins to spooky surprises, there’s something to delight every guest. Keep your eyes peeled for these seasonal beauties during your next Halloween Time adventure.

Check out the different seasonal flora you can see at Disneyland this fall:

Vinca ‘CORA CASCADE VIOLET’
- Location: Main Street, U.S.A.
Ipomoea ‘SPOTLIGHT BLACK’
- Location: Mickey Floral Front Entrance
Petunia ‘STARLET MIDNIGHT SKY”
- Location: Main Street, U.S.A.
Coleus ‘FLAME THROWER SERRANO’
- Location: Haunted Mansion
Gomphrena ‘QIS ORANGE’
- Location: Central Plaza
Dahlia ‘CITY LIGHTS APRICOT’
- Location: Central Plaza
Mangave ‘CATCH A WAVE’
- Location: Tomorrowland

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Ready to book your next visit to the Disneyland Resort? Contact me today to start planning! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free.

Florida Gov. DeSantis Issues State of Emergency Ahead of Potential Tropical Storm

By

Chip

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September 23, 2024

Florida Braces for Potential Hurricane Helene, Governor Issues State of Emergency

Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency across the majority of Florida’s counties in anticipation of the potential impacts from Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine, which is predicted to strengthen into Hurricane Helene.

The state of emergency covers a wide swathe of Florida, including Alachua, Bay, Bradford, Calhoun, Charlotte, Citrus, Collier, Columbia, Dixie, Escambia, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Monroe, Okaloosa, Pasco, Pinellas, Santa Rosa, Sarasota, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union, Wakulla, Walton, and Washington counties.

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The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is closely monitoring the developing system in the Caribbean Sea. The NHC’s latest forecast cone indicates the potential track of the storm, with expectations of it gaining strength in the coming days. If wind speeds reach 39 mph, it will officially become Tropical Storm Helene.

This proactive measure by Governor DeSantis aims to ensure that Florida is well-prepared to respond to any potential impacts from the storm, such as heavy rainfall, flooding, and strong winds. Residents in the affected counties are advised to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and take necessary precautions.

We are tracking Potential Tropical Cyclone #9, which is likely to strengthen this week as the system enters the Gulf of Mexico. I have issued Executive Order 24-208, declaring a state of emergency in 41 counties in Florida that could see potential impacts from the storm and…
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) September 23, 2024

“Now is the time to make an emergency plan, know your evacuation zone, and be as prepared as possible for the storm,” DeSantis wrote in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Learn more about the governor’s order by clicking here.

New Winnie the Pooh Varsity Jacket For A Sweet Style This Fall!

By

Ana Leal

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September 23, 2024

New Winnie the Pooh Varsity Jacket For A Sweet Style This Fall!

Ah, Winnie the Pooh, the lovable bear who has captured hearts for generations. And now, Disney fans can add a touch of Hundred Acre Wood magic to their wardrobe with the adorable Winnie the Pooh Varsity Jacket. This stylish and comfy jacket is the perfect way to show off your love for Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, and Tigger.

Priced at $119.99 online at the Disney Store, the varsity jacket features a classic denim body and twill sleeves, giving it a timeless look.

The jacket is adorned with embroidered and screened art and words, including the iconic “100 Acre Hunny Club” logo. Imagine cozying up in this jacket on a chilly day, feeling the warmth of friendship and adventure.

Whether you’re a die-hard Winnie the Pooh fan or simply looking for a fun and stylish piece to add to your collection, this varsity jacket is a must-have. It’s the perfect gift for yourself or a loved one who appreciates the magic of Disney.

To purchase your very own Winnie the Pooh Varsity Jacket, visit the Disney Store online. Hurry, though – this charming jacket is sure to be a popular item!

Credit: Disney Store