Search this site

Calling all Orlando Hospitality and Customer Service Workers! May Action Park at ICON Park on I-Drive are hosting a Hospitality and Customer Service Event on Friday, April 28 at 8pm. All attractions and the entire bar will be HALF OFF for all hospitality and customer service workers who show proof of employment, such as ID, paystubs, or scheduling apps. Pus, get ready to take your work frustrations out at the AXE-THROWING competition for guests who are 18 years or older and wear closed-toe shoes. The competition is only $5 to buy in, don't miss your chance to show off your skills and win! Max Action Arena is the place for high-intensity, engaging fun. The 8,000-square-foot entertainment center features a variety of experiences including: Zero Latency Extreme Virtual Reality - Rather than playing the game, you’re IN the game with Zero Latency VR. Reality blends with the virtual world as you’re dropped into a huge arena to battle or explore with up to eight guests. With Zero Latency VR, you can roam freely in open space, moving however and wherever you want. Adventure Rooms - Like a cross between escape rooms and video games, Adventure Rooms will challenge you to race against the clock to solve the puzzle in each of these themed rooms. From solving a crime with CSI, breaking codes in a medieval world, dealing with alien abductions or surviving a creepy, cursed room you have to think fast and act fast to solve them all! Axe Throwing - Sharpen your skills and challenge your friends to an Axe Throwing session. You don’t have to be a lumberjack to enjoy throwing axes at a wood target for points. It’s like darts – but with axes! High tech projected targets allow you to choose from several different games for tons of new challenges. Escape Room - Escape from Planet Obscura transports you to a distant alien planet as you try and repair your damaged space craft. Can you get your engine repaired and activate the launch sequence before you find yourself stranded in space forever? For more details head over to the official website. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Gotta Go Orlando is your free guide to all the amazing happenings in Orlando. Every day we offer he most up to date news and information on the best of Orlando and Central Florida. We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links, so certain articles may be paid for, or some articles may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site. For more information or to comment on any article we publish, please feel free to Contact Us.

Earlier today, Monday, April 17, we brought you the news that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was ready to announce plans to void the deal that was made between Reedy Creek Improvement District and Walt Disney World that quietly stripped the new Central Florida Tourism Oversight District of its development power before Disney handed over control to DeSantis and his self appointed new board. The latest on the ongoing one man drama is that the governor has now held a press conference this afternoon at the Reedy Creek Administration Building in Lake Buena Vista. DeSantis has revealed that there is legislation coming that will revoke the development agreement passed by the Reedy Creek board before the state took over the Reedy Creek Improvement District. DeSantis claimed the “11th hour” agreement created by the Reedy Creek Improvement District was full of “a plethora of legal infirmities that render them void.” He stated his intention to examine lands included within the Reedy Creek District for public use, including some ideas that the new board had floated, including the possibility of state parks, additional theme parks, or a State Penitentiary. YES, DeSantis said that this includes the state board being able to decide what to do with undeveloped land within the former Reedy Creek Improvement District, whether that be a state park, additional theme parks, or a State Penitentiary.! YES! SERIOUSLY!! So DeSantis believes he can decide what Disney can do with THEIR land, and honestly what is DeSantis thinking, a prison??? Yeah, way to go for helping Florida's tourism. Also as predicted DeSantis said the state will also take over inspections of rides at the theme parks. At the press conference, the newly elected Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson talked about further steps that the State could take. Simpson said that there is a proposal from DeSantis and the Florida Legislature that would allow the State to have a new inspection process for Disney World attractions. Currently, Disney World is one of a handful of theme park operators that are exempt from inspections but must report injuries to the state. Other theme park operators included in the 2001 “MOU Exempt Facilities” list include SeaWorld, Universal Orlando, Busch Gardens, and Legoland. BUT, DeSantis said that the law would be drawn to only target special districts, ie Walt Disney World, YES, MORE BULLY TACTICS FROM THE STATE BULLY! DeSantis appears to be in no mood for backing down as he continues his mission to damage Disney for daring to stand up to him, despite all that he company has brought to Florida over the years. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis appears to be a bully, hell bend on punishing tourists and harming Florida's tourism in his personal bitter feud with Disney. Come hell or high water, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is out to get Disney, no matter what, and YES, this could damage the sunshine states tourism industry!! DeSantis's has already revealed that his hand picked Board of Supervisors of the new Central Florida Tourism Oversight District that DeSantis forced onto Disney, is to make a resolution for “Superior Authority” over the district. Another change within section 7 of the RCID Land Development Regulations seeks to replace the Planning Board, which is a separate Advisory Board within the District, with the Board of Supervisors. The amendment would replace the Planning Board as the “local planning agency” with the Board of Supervisors. The Board of Supervisors would then be able to make development decisions and the amendment says that DeSantis’ hand-picked Board would be “the final decision-making authority for the District” and that “no further administrative appeal is available” once the rubber stamp Board has made a decision. This means that DeSantis and his hand picked board would be able to deny future developments in Walt Disney World, which sounds super for Florida's tourism! Plus, DeSantis has decided that he wants to replace the Planning Board with his Board of Supervisors. The five-member Planning Board is currently a separate Advisory Board. If the Board of Supervisors takes over, that means they would be “the final decision-making authority for the District” and that “no further administrative appeal is available” after the board has made a decision. The members of the Planning Board have term limits of three years, but the new amendment would remove term limits, and honestly, it appears that DeSantis is making things up as he goes along in his war against Disney. This all comes on the back of multiple threats from DeSantis towards Walt Disney World in a speech he delivered at Hillsdale College, a conservative liberal arts college in Michigan. DeSantis said “They are not superior to the people of Florida. So come hell or high water we’re going to make sure that policy of Florida carries the day. And so they can keep trying to do things. But ultimately we’re going to win on every single issue involving Disney I can tell you that.” DeSantis also promised to double down on his efforts to punish Disney through methods both in the Legislature and the Central Florida Tourism Oversight Board. This effectively means that DeSantis is threatening to hike Disney’s hotel taxes and set up tolls on the roads around Walt Disney World Resort property!! This is bad news for visitors to the sunshine state and in particular to the majority of those visitors who choose to visit Walt Disney World, harming tourism and the state of Florida, simply because DeSatis has a personal grudge with Disney. Also to inflame the situation further, in a separate speech hosted by the Midland County Republican Party in Michigan, the governor said “Disney tried to pull a fast one on the way out the door. That story’s not over yet. Buckle up. There’s more coming down the pike.” Bob Iger has already accused the Governor of harming Florida, and it appears the Governor is determined to to just that! Here is what Iger had to say on the matter... Speaking on April 3 at The Walt Disney Company 2023 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, CEO Bob Iger addressed the current controversy surrounding Florida Governor Ron DeSantis apparent war on the company. Iger said that The Walt Disney Company were exercising their right to free speech and that now Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is retaliating against them and their right to free speech. Iger proudly proclaimed “We love the State of Florida,” before pointing out the company’s many investments in the local community over the years, he in turn, also acknowledged that he respected and appreciated what the State has done for Disney. He then went on to reference Disney's response to the Don’t Say Gay controversy (Parental Rights in Education bill), and said that although he thought that the situation was not well handled, Disney still has a right to free speech. “While the company may have not handled the position that it took very well, a company has a right to freedom of speech, just like individuals do, and obviously in taking the position, the governor got very angry about the position Disney took, and seems like he’s decided to retaliate against us, including the naming of a new board to oversee the property and the business, in effect to seek to punish a company for its exercise of a constitutional right,” He directly accused Governor DeSantis of retaliating against Disney and punishing them for exercising a constitutional right. He claimed that “Any action that supports those efforts simply to retaliate for a position Disney took sounds not just anti-business, but it sounds anti-Florida, and I’ll just leave it at that” Iger said it seems “really wrong” for DeSantis to punish and call out a company that loves and provides so much for the state of Florida “in the form of jobs and community service taxes... tourism, of course, and all sorts of other responsible business practices.” Igor pointed out the importance of Disney to Florida, and what the company bring to the table, with over 75,000 employees in Florida and the 50 million plus visitors they have brought to the state this year alone, including 8 million internationally. Igor went on to reveal that Disney is set to invest billions in Walt Disney World over the next 10 years, bringing thousands of new jobs to the area. The Disney CEO also pointed out that Disney is the largest taxpayer in the state. The unhappy Govenor has previously ordered a criminal investigation into the deal that Disney openly made with the former Reedy Creek Improvement District that gave Disney maximum developmental power over its territory for the next 30 years. Of course, we are now seeing a push back from the governor who will not want to be seen as the man who got out-manouverd by Mickey Mouse! DeSantis said “There’s a lot of little back-and-forths going on now with the state taking control, but rest assured, you know, you ain’t seen nothing yet,” telling a crowd in Smyrna, Georgia. “There’s more to come in that regard.” Read on for details... The Executive Office of the Governor shared the following letter from Governor DeSantis to Melinda Miguel, Chief Inspector General of the State of Florida outlining the ordered investigation: Dear Ms. Miguel: On February 27, 2023, I signed House Bill 9-B, Reedy Creek Improvement District, Orange, and Osceola Counties, which replaced the Disney-controlled Reedy Creek Improvement District (RCID) with a new Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD), and appointed five new members to the CFTOD board. Recently, the new board members informed the public that they had uncovered that, immediately before the enactment of House Bill 9-B, the RCID Board of Supervisors attempted to enter into last-minute development and restrictive covenant agreements with Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc. (Walt Disney World), designed to usurp the authority of the CFTOD board. These collusive and self-dealing arrangements aim to nullify the recently passed legislation, undercut Florida’s legislative process, and defy the will of Floridians. In addition, based on initial observations of counsel, the RCID board’s actions appear to suffer from serious legal infirmities, including, among other things, inadequate notice, lack of consideration, improper delegation of authority, and ethical violations, such as conflicts of interest and self-dealing. Therefore, pursuant to Section 14.32, Florida Statutes, I formally request that you, as the Chief Inspector General of the State of Florida, in consultation with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, launch a thorough review and investigation into the actions of the RCID Board of Supervisors described above. Such investigation should include analysis of the following: RCID’s adherence to applicable Florida civil and criminal laws and ethics requirements; The qualifications of RCID’s prior Board of Supervisors and the legal validity of their actions; The involvement of Walt Disney World employees and agents in the execution of RCID’s actions; Any financial gain or benefit derived by Walt Disney World as a result of RCID’s actions and RCID’s justification for such actions; All RCID board, employee, or agent communications related to RCID’s actions, including those with Walt Disney World employees and agents; and All RCID board, employee, or agent communications related to House Bill 9-B, Reedy Creek Improvement District, Orange, and Osceola Counties, and the CFTOD. Any legal or ethical violations should be referred to the appropriate authorities. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. Last week, Christina Pushaw, of DeSantis’ rapid response team said "Governor DeSantis’ new board would not, and will not, allow Disney to give THEMSELVES unprecedented power over land (some of which isn’t even theirs!) for 30+ years" And we have seen the office of state Attorney General Ashley Moody swing into action, making an official request for the procurement of all pertinent records, emails, text messages, and other correspondences relevant to negotiations between the now-defunct Reedy Creek Improvement District and Disney. SO HOW DID DISNEY MANAGE TO PULL THE WOOL OVER THE GOVENORS EYES? On February. 8, 2023, as the Florida House was passing legislation to give DeSantis his new power, Reedy Creek’s board members signed a development agreement with Disney that allowed the company maximum developmental power over its territory for the next 30 years. According to the new board members of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight board, and their attorneys, Disney is allowed the maximum possible density and building heights inside Walt Disney World. Other property owners will need Disney’s permission to expand within the district, and they and Reedy Creek leaders will need to seek Disney’s approval if they made any aesthetic changes to their properties within the district. The district is also not allowed to permit advertisements of any companies that compete with ones that operate within Reedy Creek, board members said. “We lose control over everything other than to maintain the roads and maintain the infrastructure,” one board member said. It appears that board members only discovered the agreement after their appointments! Both they and their newly appointed attorneys called the agreement null and void. Particular focus was paid to one section that board members said locked in development rights of a particular parcel until 21 years after the death of the youngest current descendant of King Charles, or until Disney abandons the resort. Board members have hired multiple politically-connected law firms to represent them and analyze the agreement, and discussed bringing on as many as four different firms to battle the mighty Disney corporation as they desperately attempt to nullify the agreement. The new board are claiming that they will take the case to the United States Supreme Court if necessary, although backtracking on this, some board members said they hoped Disney executives and attorneys would be willing to reach a compromise before any legal action was taken... Disney then issued the following statement: “All agreements signed between Disney and the District were appropriate, and were discussed and approved in open, noticed public forums in compliance with Florida’s Government in the Sunshine law.” With both sides appearing to be gearing up for a legal battle. It’s unclear what further actions the DeSantis administration might take in response to Disney’s one-upmanship, but it's very clear that Gov DeSantis is not a happy man right now! As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.

It's time to get reacquainted with the lovely ladies of Chinquapin, Louisiana, as the warmest hearted of comedy dramas, Steel Magnolias is set to take to the main stage at Osceola Arts in Kissimmee, from April 21 - May 7. This new production features a talented ensemble cast and is directed by J. Marie Bailey. This classic play, written by Robert Harling was first performed on stage in 1987, although many fans will know and love Steel Magnolias from its popular 1989 movie adaptation. Truvy’s Louisiana beauty salon is the place to gossip and get your hair done, and every Saturday, you will find the town staples Ouiser, Miss Clairee, M’Lynn and Shelby filling the salon with the sounds of hilarious banter, amusing rumors and unsolicited advice. When a tragic death occurs, the ladies come together and find strength, love and support in one another. Tickets for Steel Magnolias start at only $28, with senior, students and group discounts available. This production is rated PG-13. Osceola Arts will present an American Sign Language-interpreted performance on Saturday, May 6 at 2:00 PM. For more information about the best seating to view the interpreter, please email boxoffice@osceolaarts.org. Osceola Arts will present an audio described performance on Saturday, May 6 at 7:30 PM. A limited number of listening devices will be available. Please contact the box office to reserve one before purchasing tickets. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Gotta Go Orlando is your free guide to all the amazing happenings in Orlando. Every day we offer he most up to date news and information on the best of Orlando and Central Florida. We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links, so certain articles may be paid for, or some articles may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site. For more information or to comment on any article we publish, please feel free to Contact Us.

For a man that is supposedly eyeing up a run for president, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis seems to be concentrating more on plotting ways to punish Disney, than putting effort into making this country a better place! In recent weeks, DeSantis has been acting like a bully, getting more and more desperate in his one man war on Disney, a company that only dared to offer a different opinion that his. A new week brings even more plotting from DeSantis, as the NY Post is reporting today, Monday, April 17 that DeSantis is ready to announce plans later today to void the contract between the Central Florida Tourism Oversight Board (formerly the Reedy Creek Improvement District) and Walt Disney World. The development contract, which was agreed upon before DeSantis’ hand-picked Board Members could take over, basically signs off certain development rights to Walt Disney World for decades to come. An unnamed senior administration source told The Post. “The narrative the left is spinning is that Gov. DeSantis was outmaneuvered. But this is far from over, and he’s going to have the last laugh.” The governor, a presumptive 2024 presidential candidate, is seeking to revoke other privileges the House of Mouse has enjoyed since its special tax district was established in 1967, sources said. The Orlando park’s monorail and transportation systems have long been exempt from external inspections, along with its rides — but new rules could now make Disney subject to those regulations. This one sided war has received little to no retaliation from Disney, last week Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger was names one of Time Magazine's most influential people of 2023 and in an interview with he magazine, the Disney boss gave very little insight on the ongoing feud between Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Disney, which was caused by Disney’s denouncement of Florida’s "Don't Say Gay" Parental Rights in Education bill last year Time asked Iger, “Did you checkmate Ron DeSantis?” referencing the recent revelations that Disney had in fact pulled the wool over the governor's eye's by passing a number of restrictive covenants which handed most of the Reedy Creek Improvement District powers to Disney for a period of at least thirty years. just before DeSantis’ hand picked board took over. Iger replied “Disney World opened just over 50 years ago, it was the vision and the dream of Walt Disney, probably the most ambitious thing he ever did—turning swampland in Central Florida into a business that employs over 75,000 people, that is visited by tens of millions of people every year, that is a major tourist destination in the United States, and for the state of Florida, that creates huge value for our company and its employees, and for the state of Florida itself. Our sole goal in Florida is to continue creating that value for all those constituencies. All we want is a relationship with the state that enables us to continue to do that. We have the wherewithal and we have the desire to continue to invest there to grow that business so that we can hire more people so that we can increase our attendance, and so that we can basically increase more value for the Walt Disney Company and for the state of Florida. It’s that simple.” Time then asked, “Usually, you’re very much a let’s-sit-down-and-get-past-our differences guy, and much less a let’s-go-to-the-mattresses guy. Is there no trying to meet with the governor?” “Iger commented "I do not view this as a going-to-mattresses situation for us,” he continued “If the governor of Florida wants to meet with me to discuss all of this, of course, I would be glad to do that. You know, I’m one that typically has respected our elected officials and the responsibility that they have, and there would be no reason why I wouldn’t do that.” While Iger is taking the high ground and offering to meet the governor, DeSantis appears to be in no mood for peace talks as he continues on his mission to damage Disney, despite all the company has brought to Florida. Only last week Florida Governor Ron DeSantis revealed plans to punish tourists and harm Florida's tourism in his bitter feud with Disney, and now he has launched another attack in his never ending fight against the house of mouse! To outsiders it looks like, come hell or high water, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is out to get Disney, no matter what, and YES, this could damage the sunshine states tourism industry!! Last week, DeSantis's revealed that his hand picked Board of Supervisors of the new Central Florida Tourism Oversight District that DeSantis forced onto Disney, is to make a resolution for “Superior Authority” over the district. Another change within section 7 of the RCID Land Development Regulations seeks to replace the Planning Board, which is a separate Advisory Board within the District, with the Board of Supervisors. The amendment would replace the Planning Board as the “local planning agency” with the Board of Supervisors. The Board of Supervisors would then be able to make development decisions and the amendment says that DeSantis’ hand-picked Board would be “the final decision-making authority for the District” and that “no further administrative appeal is available” once the rubber stamp Board has made a decision. This means that DeSantis and his hand picked board would be able to deny future developments in Walt Disney World, which sounds super for Florida's tourism! Plus, DeSantis has decided that he wants to replace the Planning Board with his Board of Supervisors. The five-member Planning Board is currently a separate Advisory Board. If the Board of Supervisors takes over, that means they would be “the final decision-making authority for the District” and that “no further administrative appeal is available” after the board has made a decision. The members of the Planning Board have term limits of three years, but the new amendment would remove term limits, and honestly, it appears that DeSantis is making things up as he goes along in his war against Disney. This all comes on the back of multiple threats from DeSantis towards Walt Disney World in a speech he delivered at Hillsdale College, a conservative liberal arts college in Michigan. DeSantis said “They are not superior to the people of Florida. So come hell or high water we’re going to make sure that policy of Florida carries the day. And so they can keep trying to do things. But ultimately we’re going to win on every single issue involving Disney I can tell you that.” DeSantis also promised to double down on his efforts to punish Disney through methods both in the Legislature and the Central Florida Tourism Oversight Board. This effectively means that DeSantis is threatening to hike Disney’s hotel taxes and set up tolls on the roads around Walt Disney World Resort property!! This is bad news for visitors to the sunshine state and in particular to the majority of those visitors who choose to visit Walt Disney World, harming tourism and the state of Florida, simply because DeSatis has a personal grudge with Disney. Also to inflame the situation further, in a separate speech hosted by the Midland County Republican Party in Michigan, the governor said “Disney tried to pull a fast one on the way out the door. That story’s not over yet. Buckle up. There’s more coming down the pike.” Bob Iger days ago accused the Governor of harming Florida, endow it appears the Governor is determined to to just that! Here is what Iger had to say on the matter... Speaking on April 3 at The Walt Disney Company 2023 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, CEO Bob Iger addressed the current controversy surrounding Florida Governor Ron DeSantis apparent war on the company. Iger said that The Walt Disney Company were exercising their right to free speech and that now Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is retaliating against them and their right to free speech. Iger proudly proclaimed “We love the State of Florida,” before pointing out the company’s many investments in the local community over the years, he in turn, also acknowledged that he respected and appreciated what the State has done for Disney. He then went on to reference Disney's response to the Don’t Say Gay controversy (Parental Rights in Education bill), and said that although he thought that the situation was not well handled, Disney still has a right to free speech. “While the company may have not handled the position that it took very well, a company has a right to freedom of speech, just like individuals do, and obviously in taking the position, the governor got very angry about the position Disney took, and seems like he’s decided to retaliate against us, including the naming of a new board to oversee the property and the business, in effect to seek to punish a company for its exercise of a constitutional right,” He directly accused Governor DeSantis of retaliating against Disney and punishing them for exercising a constitutional right. He claimed that “Any action that supports those efforts simply to retaliate for a position Disney took sounds not just anti-business, but it sounds anti-Florida, and I’ll just leave it at that” Iger said it seems “really wrong” for DeSantis to punish and call out a company that loves and provides so much for the state of Florida “in the form of jobs and community service taxes... tourism, of course, and all sorts of other responsible business practices.” Igor pointed out the importance of Disney to Florida, and what the company bring to the table, with over 75,000 employees in Florida and the 50 million plus visitors they have brought to the state this year alone, including 8 million internationally. Igor went on to reveal that Disney is set to invest billions in Walt Disney World over the next 10 years, bringing thousands of new jobs to the area. The Disney CEO also pointed out that Disney is the largest taxpayer in the state. Only last week the unhappy Govenor ordered a criminal investigation into the deal that Disney openly made with the former Reedy Creek Improvement District that gave Disney maximum developmental power over its territory for the next 30 years. Of course, we are now seeing a push back from the governor who will not want to be seen as the man who got out-manouverd by Mickey Mouse! Last week DeSantis said “There’s a lot of little back-and-forths going on now with the state taking control, but rest assured, you know, you ain’t seen nothing yet,” telling a crowd in Smyrna, Georgia. “There’s more to come in that regard.” Read on for details... The Executive Office of the Governor shared the following letter from Governor DeSantis to Melinda Miguel, Chief Inspector General of the State of Florida outlining the ordered investigation: Dear Ms. Miguel: On February 27, 2023, I signed House Bill 9-B, Reedy Creek Improvement District, Orange, and Osceola Counties, which replaced the Disney-controlled Reedy Creek Improvement District (RCID) with a new Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD), and appointed five new members to the CFTOD board. Recently, the new board members informed the public that they had uncovered that, immediately before the enactment of House Bill 9-B, the RCID Board of Supervisors attempted to enter into last-minute development and restrictive covenant agreements with Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc. (Walt Disney World), designed to usurp the authority of the CFTOD board. These collusive and self-dealing arrangements aim to nullify the recently passed legislation, undercut Florida’s legislative process, and defy the will of Floridians. In addition, based on initial observations of counsel, the RCID board’s actions appear to suffer from serious legal infirmities, including, among other things, inadequate notice, lack of consideration, improper delegation of authority, and ethical violations, such as conflicts of interest and self-dealing. Therefore, pursuant to Section 14.32, Florida Statutes, I formally request that you, as the Chief Inspector General of the State of Florida, in consultation with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, launch a thorough review and investigation into the actions of the RCID Board of Supervisors described above. Such investigation should include analysis of the following: RCID’s adherence to applicable Florida civil and criminal laws and ethics requirements; The qualifications of RCID’s prior Board of Supervisors and the legal validity of their actions; The involvement of Walt Disney World employees and agents in the execution of RCID’s actions; Any financial gain or benefit derived by Walt Disney World as a result of RCID’s actions and RCID’s justification for such actions; All RCID board, employee, or agent communications related to RCID’s actions, including those with Walt Disney World employees and agents; and All RCID board, employee, or agent communications related to House Bill 9-B, Reedy Creek Improvement District, Orange, and Osceola Counties, and the CFTOD. Any legal or ethical violations should be referred to the appropriate authorities. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. Last week, Christina Pushaw, of DeSantis’ rapid response team said "Governor DeSantis’ new board would not, and will not, allow Disney to give THEMSELVES unprecedented power over land (some of which isn’t even theirs!) for 30+ years" And we have seen the office of state Attorney General Ashley Moody swing into action, making an official request for the procurement of all pertinent records, emails, text messages, and other correspondences relevant to negotiations between the now-defunct Reedy Creek Improvement District and Disney. SO HOW DID DISNEY MANAGE TO PULL THE WOOL OVER THE GOVENORS EYES? On February. 8, 2023, as the Florida House was passing legislation to give DeSantis his new power, Reedy Creek’s board members signed a development agreement with Disney that allowed the company maximum developmental power over its territory for the next 30 years. According to the new board members of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight board, and their attorneys, Disney is allowed the maximum possible density and building heights inside Walt Disney World. Other property owners will need Disney’s permission to expand within the district, and they and Reedy Creek leaders will need to seek Disney’s approval if they made any aesthetic changes to their properties within the district. The district is also not allowed to permit advertisements of any companies that compete with ones that operate within Reedy Creek, board members said. “We lose control over everything other than to maintain the roads and maintain the infrastructure,” one board member said. It appears that board members only discovered the agreement after their appointments! Both they and their newly appointed attorneys called the agreement null and void. Particular focus was paid to one section that board members said locked in development rights of a particular parcel until 21 years after the death of the youngest current descendant of King Charles, or until Disney abandons the resort. Board members have hired multiple politically-connected law firms to represent them and analyze the agreement, and discussed bringing on as many as four different firms to battle the mighty Disney corporation as they desperately attempt to nullify the agreement. The new board are claiming that they will take the case to the United States Supreme Court if necessary, although backtracking on this, some board members said they hoped Disney executives and attorneys would be willing to reach a compromise before any legal action was taken... Disney then issued the following statement: “All agreements signed between Disney and the District were appropriate, and were discussed and approved in open, noticed public forums in compliance with Florida’s Government in the Sunshine law.” With both sides appearing to be gearing up for a legal battle. It’s unclear what further actions the DeSantis administration might take in response to Disney’s one-upmanship, but it's very clear that Gov DeSantis is not a happy man right now! As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.

Welcome foolish foodies to Walt Disney World's Halfway To Halloween Eats and Treats! Every year at Halfway To Halloween, Disney celebrates with some wickedly delicious treats in Walt Disney World, and this year is no exception! Walt Disney World Resort has been dusting off the cobwebs to bring to you some items you won’t want to miss – like the return of the Madame Leota Chocolate Cake at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and the exciting offerings coming to Gideon’s Bakehouse at Disney Springs. Disney Resort Hotels Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s Pop Century Resort Landscape of Flavors and Everything POP Shopping and Dining (Available April 20 through 23)) The Whoopie Monster: Spiced apple whoopie pie with marshmallow buttercream and caramel Disney’s Contemporary Resort Contempo Café (Available April 20 through 23) Madame Leota Chocolate Cake: Mini Devil’s Food Cake filled with dark chocolate ganache topped with chocolate glaze and marshmallow webs Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Gasparilla Island Grill (Available April 20 through 23) Jack O’ Lantern Mickey Cake Pop: Jumbo pumpkin-spiced yellow cake pop enrobed in orange-colored white chocolate Bewitching Minnie Cupcake: Chocolate cupcake topped with chocolate cream sandwich cookies for ears, an edible witch hat, and Halloween sprinkles Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Pineapple Lanai (Available April 20 through 23) Kakamora DOLE Whip Waffle Bowl: DOLE Whip served in a waffle bowl with Moana-inspired white chocolate and milk chocolate-covered pretzel sticks Available at Various Disney Resort Hotels (Available April 20 through 23) Donald Duck Candy Corn Sipper; available at the following (Available while supplies last.): Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Contempo Café at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Gasparilla Island Grill at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Capt. Cook’s at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Everything POP Shopping and Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort Disney Springs Gideon’s Bakehouse Pumpkin Cheesecake Snack Cakes: This hauntingly delicious gourmet treat features a layer of the softest spice cake topped with pumpkin cheesecake and dipped in high-quality dark chocolate (Limit two per person; available while supplies last) (New) Gideon’s Trading Card Series: Be on the lookout for free trading cards hidden at the bottom of every medium and large cookie box! You will also get a free Halfway to Halloween Promo Card with purchase for your collection during the event. Barnabas Mephistophelittle Merchandise: Don’t forget to check out new merchandise featuring Gideon’s Halfway to Halloween Ambassador, Barnabas Mephistophelittle, including a collector’s pin and temporary tattoo! (New) Marketplace Snacks (Available April 20 through 23) Jack Skellington Bubble Waffle Sundae: Chocolate soft-serve, marshmallow fluff, hot fudge, orange sprinkles, chocolate shavings, chocolate pocky sticks, and a chocolate Jack Skellington garnish B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co. Donald Duck Candy Corn Sipper (Available while supplies last.) Magic Kingdom Park Columbia Harbour House (Mobile order available) Happy Haunts Milk Shake: Blackberry milkshake topped with a purple chocolate-glazed doughnut covered with black sprinkles As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Gotta Go Orlando is your free guide to all the amazing happenings in Orlando. Every day we offer he most up to date news and information on the best of Orlando and Central Florida. We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links, so certain articles may be paid for, or some articles may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site. For more information or to comment on any article we publish, please feel free to Contact Us.

Trail's End Restaurant at Walt Disney World is now officially closed for a refurbishment that will change the restaurant forever. Trail’s End Restaurant at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground which first opened in 1974, has closed for a refurbishment that will see the location cease to be a table service restaurant, with the popular location re-imagined as a quick service outlet. With Trail’s End closed, P&J’s Southern Takeout mobile ordering and The Chuck Wagon food truck are available as an alternative. Trails's End is scheduled to reopen this summer. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Trail’s End was an all you can eat buffet experience, but when the restaurant reopened in 2021, it was changed to a family-style restaurant, now sadly 2023 will really be Trail's End, as the restaurant is transformed into a quick serve location. The new food location will have a “marketplace concept with expanded quick service options,”

Daytona Beach is world famous and only a one hour drive from Orlando, so jump in the car and head on over to the east coast for a day, a weekend, or a week at the beach! Of course the beach is the biggest draw in Daytona, and quite rightly so, but there's a lot to do in the Daytona Beach area that won't bust your budget, Daytona offers value after value. Check out our handy list of all the FREE things to do during your time in DAYTONA BEACH! The Best FREE Thing's To Do In Daytona Beach! The Beach Of course top of our list of free thing's to do in Daytona Beach is of course, the BEACH! The beach is what Daytona is famous the world over for, and there truly is something special about driving on Daytona Beach, it's something you have to do, but remember, it's not free to drive on the beach, it costs $20 per vehicle, per day. If you are a regular visitor, it's with buying an annual pass, passes are $25 for Volusia County residents and $100 for non-residents. We have so many memories of parking up on the beach, spending the day on the beach, and having the best days ever. Although the beach is mostly known for the stretch near the pier, the beach which is known as “the world’s most famous beach”, has more than 23 miles of coastline with various coastal parks along the way. Daytona Beach offers warm sand, crystal-clear water, wide shallows, and pure, fresh air, perfect for time away from Orlando! You can enjoy the many beach bars, swimming, surfing, shell collecting, boating, water skiing, and any other water sport you can think of. Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier The Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier is one of the most popular things to do in Daytona Beach, the Pier traditional pier that extends a quarter mile into the ocean and is surrounded by stores, arcades, and amusements. You can people watch or rent bikes and cruise along the boardwalk. Sun Splash Park This four-acre oceanfront park at south Atlantic Avenue features decorative walkways, a shaded playground, picnic areas, restrooms, outdoor showers and two beach access ramps Best of all, it features an interactive water fountains and a sea-themed interior that is ideal for young children. It offers free, off-beach parking (95 spaces) and is open sunrise to sunset. Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory Tour Located in the historic Riverfront Shops in downtown Daytona Beach at 154 South Beach Street, Angell & Phelps Chocolates has been a Daytona Beach tradition since 1925. Take a free self-guided tour anytime during regular operating hours of the chocolate factory, and enjoy a free sample! Gourmet chocolate, fudge, candies, and presents are what Angell and Phelps Chocolate Factory is all about, and in the retail shop, you’ll be amazed at the selection of unique chocolates and other confectionary treats. The Casements Formerly the winter home of multi-millionaire John D. Rockefeller, The Casements located at 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach, now serves as the City of Ormond Beach's cultural center and museum containing art and historical exhibits. The Casements is registered on the National Register of Historic Places, and free tours of the Rockefeller period rooms and other exhibits are offered 10 am to 2:30 pm, Monday through Friday and 10 am to 11:30 am, Saturday. Mary McLeod Bethune Foundation Home & Gravesite Bethune-Cookman University is one of the richest resources of African-American historical and cultural exhibits in Florida. Located on the Bethune-Cookman University campus in Daytona Beach, the Mary McLeod Bethune Foundation Home & Gravesite is a historic home that offers free tours. The Mary McLeod Bethune Home & Gravesite is a must-see, and features fascinating antiques and images of notable guests and US presidents. The house also showcases the exquisite furnishings and early 20th-century architecture, as well as the thought that went into their selection. Southeast Museum of Photography Located at Daytona State College, 1200 West International Speedway Boulevard, Daytona Beach, The Southeast Museum of Photography is one of only 12 specialized museums of its kind in the United States, and one of fewer than 30 throughout the world. The museum is Florida's official museum of photography. Free admission. Check the website for hours. Michael Crotty Bicentennial Park The Michael Crotty Bicentennial Park at Ocean Shore Boulevard, Ormond Beach, stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Halifax River and covers five ecological systems. It features tennis and racquetball courts, a softball field, a fishing pier, an exercise trail, and picnicking facilities. Admission is free, and the park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. North Peninsula State Recreation Area 5 miles north of Granada Blvd. on Hwy. A1A, Ormond Beach you will discover the 900-acre North Peninsula State Recreational Park that offers over two miles of sandy beaches for recreational use. The area, which is open daily with free admission, features palmetto dunes and sea turtles, as well as some of the best surf fishing in the area. Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens is located at East Granada Boulevard, showcases paintings, drawings, video, mixed media, photography and three-dimensional works of art. Adjacent to the museum are lush tropical gardens that offer a beautiful setting complete with gazebo and nature trails, fish ponds and fountains. Open daily, dawn to dusk. Admission is free, but a $2 donation is requested for each visitor, with the exception of seniors (60 and older) and children. Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens Set amid 12 acres of lush botanical gardens on Old Sugar Mill Road (U.S. 1 to Herbert Street), Port Orange, stands the remains of an English sugar mill. Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens were once home to the 1940s theme park, Bongoland. Life-size dinosaur statues remain in the tropical setting and are still a favorite with children. The gardens also house a human sundial. The facility is open daily from dawn to dusk, and admission is free. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Gotta Go Orlando is your free guide to all the amazing happenings in Orlando. Every day we offer he most up to date news and information on the best of Orlando and Central Florida. We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links, so certain articles may be paid for, or some articles may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site. For more information or to comment on any article we publish, please feel free to Contact Us.

The 9th Annual Mount Dora Blueberry Festival returns to Donnelly Park in Mount Dora on Saturday, April 29 and Sunday, April 30, 2023. Celebrating local blueberry farms in the Lake County area, enjoy more than 100 crafters and vendors, live entertainment and everything blueberry from ice cream to cakes to syrups and jams, with the pie eating contest a real favorite at the two day event. The local blueberry industry is celebrated during the peak of Blueberry season in Lake county at this annual event. Local Blueberry Farms will sell berries freshly picked from their farms along with fresh blueberry products. Crafters, live music, entertainment, pancake breakfast, blueberry beer, wine and a blueberry pie eating contest will also be featured at this FREE event. Check the website for Blueberry farm picking tours from the event during the weekend. Enjoy an old-fashioned blueberry pancake breakfast at the Mount Dora Blueberry Festival featuring fresh Florida Blueberries for only $12. Price includes a stack of three pancakes, blueberry syrup, butter and a bottle of water. 9 am to 11 am Saturday & Sunday. Coffee and Mimosas will be available for purchase. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Gotta Go Orlando is your free guide to all the amazing happenings in Orlando. Every day we offer he most up to date news and information on the best of Orlando and Central Florida. We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links, so certain articles may be paid for, or some articles may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site. For more information or to comment on any article we publish, please feel free to Contact Us.

The 18th Annual Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival will return next weekend on April 22, 2023, and it promises to be a spectacular display of costumes, music, and culture. The highlights of the carnival is a street parade, a festival concert with top local and International artists, a steel pan jamboree, a vendors village, food trucks and more! The Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival returns to Perry Harvey Sr. Park with lots of activities in store for all that attend, with LYRIKAL, ADAM O AND JADEL SCHEDULED TO PERFORM LIVE! Tickets are available now. The Annual Tampa bay Caribbean Carnival Festival has been organized by Tampa Caribbean Festival Inc a 501-C organization since 2005. With multiculturism being the central focus we continue to preserve and enhance the cultural and historical legacy. Further steeped in tradition Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival is alive with a volunteer spirit, uniting and exciting people from all parts of the city, state, country, and the world. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Gotta Go Orlando is your free guide to all the amazing happenings in Orlando. Every day we offer he most up to date news and information on the best of Orlando and Central Florida. We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links, so certain articles may be paid for, or some articles may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site. For more information or to comment on any article we publish, please feel free to Contact Us.

Ready, Set, Race! Get ready for the roar of th engines, as the adrenalin fuelled Thunder on Cocoa Beach returns this May from Thursday May 18 to Sunday, May 21, 2023. Superboat races will be returning for its 12th year on Florida’s Space Coast with 4 days and nights of parties, concerts and lots of racing action. The Space Coast Super Boat Grand Prix is one of the most popular attractions for the whole family in Central Florida. Watch the top race teams in the World to compete in various classes with the premier class reaching speeds over 175 mph. Record crowds are expected for this year's event with hundreds of thousands set to line Cocoa Beach to catch this year's spectacle. Over 60 powerboat race teams are due to compete in this years races, with team competing in 11 classes. The 2023 event will have 10 teams in the showcase Class 1 event, including teams from around the world, including Australia, Norway and Sweden. These boats can reach speeds of up to 175 mph! The actual races will be held May 20 and 21 offshore in Cocoa Beach, with the racing oval extending from Alan Shephard Park to the north and Coconuts on the Beach to the south. In advance of the races, on May 18 and 19, there will be parties, boat displays and a meet-the-racers event in the Cocoa Beach and Port Canaveral areas. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Gotta Go Orlando is your free guide to all the amazing happenings in Orlando. Every day we offer he most up to date news and information on the best of Orlando and Central Florida. We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links, so certain articles may be paid for, or some articles may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site. For more information or to comment on any article we publish, please feel free to Contact Us.

The I Dance Orlando Festival is set to bring together the local community of dancers, choreographers, performers, educators and students in a cooperative manner, allowing them to perform new works and also inspire and educate the public through dance. This year's iDance Orlando Festival will feature many of Orlando's professional dance companies and is scheduled to take place on April 29 - 30, 2023, with the event taking place at ME Theatre, 1300 La Quinta Drive Orlando. The festival aspires to create an environment for students and artists to cultivate their talent and artistry to its fullest potential, all while strengthening public appreciation and support for this unique and vast art form. “The I Dance Orlando Festival is designed to offer a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere aimed at cultivating a creative exchange of ideas,” says Marshall Ellis, founder and artistic director of ME Dance and concept designer for the festival. “The festival will encourage artists to explore new grounds, offer a creative outlet, and also provide both local artists and the public the opportunity to experience dance in a new way.” For more information visit idanceorlando.com. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Gotta Go Orlando is your free guide to all the amazing happenings in Orlando. Every day we offer he most up to date news and information on the best of Orlando and Central Florida. We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links, so certain articles may be paid for, or some articles may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site. For more information or to comment on any article we publish, please feel free to Contact Us.

A bizarre and somewhat strange event is coming to Orlando where your invited to delve into the unknown of our Bizarre World. This celebration of all that is weird, odd, strange, mysterious or just plain wicked is set to take place on May 13, 2023 from 10 am to 7 pm at the Central Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center. Bizarre World Orlando is for anyone who shares a fascination with the strange, deranged and goofy, with a day of shows, cosplay with six contests, and a huge vendor marketplace with over 100 artisans, vendors and 30 food vendors, plus Magic with Michael Matson. tarot readings. history. mystery. intrigue, and oddities... Amission in advance is only $5 for adults, and kids under 10 are free. Tickets are available in advance now, or you can pay $10 at the door. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Gotta Go Orlando is your free guide to all the amazing happenings in Orlando. Every day we offer he most up to date news and information on the best of Orlando and Central Florida. We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links, so certain articles may be paid for, or some articles may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site. For more information or to comment on any article we publish, please feel free to Contact Us.