As the legal battle between The Walt Disney Company and Ron DeSantis continues, the Florida Governor’s team has filed a new motion, questioning the impartiality of the Court in the case.
Florida has become the battlefield for one of the most discussed conflicts of the last years, with Ron DeSantis and The Walt Disney Company embroiled in a year-long battle over the Reedy Creek Improvement District that has forced Disney to take drastic actions across the company, including canceling million-dollar projects in Florida, and caused fear among fans, questioning if visiting Walt Disney World Resort is safe given the latest developments.
And as the conflict continues and lawsuits fly back and forth among both parties, it seems like the Florida Governor’s legal team fears that The Walt Disney Company may get the upper hand, as they have filed a new motion to disqualify Chief Judge Mark E. Walker in the case against Disney, arguing that “the Court’s impartiality in this matter might reasonably be questioned.”
Journalist Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin), who tweets about theme parks, entertainment, “and some politics,” shared the motion through his Twitter account.
NEW: The DeSantis legal team has filed a motion to disqualify Chief Judge Mark E Walker in the case vs. Disney. pic.twitter.com/e8SpSY93Ct
DeSantis’ legal team argues that the Court — Chief Judge Mark E. Walker — has previously made remarks implying that DeSantis is trying to retaliate against Disney “based on Disney’s viewpoints” and could “reasonably imply that the Court has prejudged the retaliation question here.”
The motion cites two unrelated cases in which Disney has been brought up, including comments regarding “[Taking] away Disney’s special status because they’re woke,” and suggests that “the Court should recuse itself and order that the case be reassigned to another judge.” You can read the filing here.
After several rounds of layoffs, The Walt Disney Company will once again be firing hundreds of its employees.
We first learned of Disney’s mass-layoff plan back at The Walt Disney Company’s Q1 earnings call. Disney CEO Bob Iger dropped the bombshell, declaring that around 7,000 jobs would be cut as a part of this company-wide restructuring. During the call, The Walt Disney Company shared its ginormous profits, posting an increase of 35% on the Parks side of things. This translated into $2.1 billion from Disney’s collection of Parks alone.
These layoffs have come in phases, with the third round of planned layoffs starting today, May 22, 2023. This third round is expected to affect roughly 2,500 positions via Deadline.
The layoffs were not expected to hit the theme park division hard, though they have been affected. The target of this third round is not specified.
Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro stated that he did not expect the layoffs to affect hourly workers on the front lines at Walt Disney World. Things have been shaky for Disney ever since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
From its stock price dropping to losing subscribers on its streaming platform, Disney has been in some hot water over the last few years.
One of Disney’s biggest controversies and, ultimately, one of its biggest failures can be found in the now-defunct Galactic Starcruiser. Earlier this month, Disney revealed that it would be permanently closing this immersive Star Wars-themed hotel experience.
The ambitious location will be closing for good in September of 2023, meaning it will have only been operating for about a year and a half. As for what Disney will do with the unused space, only time will tell. But it’s safe to say Disney lost a significant chunk of change on this admirable experiment.
The Golden Age of Hollywood has gotten some additions because The Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood Studios recently launched its seasonal menu. The culinary team has masterfully put together dishes featuring the freshest of ingredients for the summer and created a menu that will leave Guests and their taste buds wanting more.
This fan-favorite location nestled within Hollywood Boulevard is quite the popular spot, and for good reason. The contemporary American cuisine speaks for itself, and this summer menu is no different. With several delicious additions from the kitchen, your Clients will want to come back again and again to try them all.
Whether they’ve been here before or want to try this restaurant for the first time, The Hollywood Brown Derby has something for everyone to enjoy.
The appetizers have several eats that are packed with flavor. Starting off, we’ve got some seafood options resurfacing. The Crab Louie features crispy olive bread, citrus blend, fried capers, and Louie sauce. For those shrimp fans out there, the Shrimp Cocktail is topped with shaved fennel cucumbers and a traditional cocktail sauce.
For cheese lovers, there are two items that will spark interest. The Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Salad combines shaved onions, Thai basil, gremolata, and a delicious citrus vinaigrette into a can’t-miss dish, while the Charcuterie Board features the Chef’s selection of cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments.
For the more adventurous eaters, the Escargot is accompanied by roasted garlic béchamel and crispy prosciutto and the Roasted Bone Marrow is composed of braised beef, pickled mustard seeds, and a fig bread crostini. How delicious do these all sound? And we haven’t even gotten to the main course yet!
The entrée menu is packed with flavorful delights with a variety of options for everyone to enjoy. Let’s start with some new ones for the land lovers out there. The classic Filet Mignon is paired with glazed carrots, potato pave, horseradish cream, and a tasty peppercorn sauce to finish it off. The Lamb Shank is accompanied with summer vegetables, harissa vinaigrette, and nasturtium chermoula.
For Guests that love chicken and dumplings, the new Free-Range Chicken and Dumplings is the dish for them. It brings together these two classics with a lemon-ricotta Gnudi, shishito cream, and a gooseberry jus. If Guests like pork, the recently added Grilled Pork is right up their alley with a mouthwatering lavender-sage polenta and local corn salsa, complete with a huckleberrybarbecue sauce. Now that’s a dish!
The seafood aficionados have a couple options to choose from as well – the new Sustainable Fish and the Seafood Cioppino. The Sustainable Fish with white bean ragout, derby summer vegetables, and roasted tomato emulsion is a lovely addition to the menu while the Seafood Cioppino brings together favorites from the sea with shrimp, sea scallops, seasonal fish, mussels, a toasted baguette, and aromatic tomato broth.
Last, but certainly not least for the new items, we have The Hollywood Brown Derby’s latest rendition of a classic comfort food dish – Shepherd’s Pie. This option combines roasted garlic mashed potatoes, mushrooms, peas, corn, and carrot Romesco into a plate that will warm your soul and ignite your taste buds. Did we mention this one is plant-based?
For those repeat diners, don’t worry, because some fan-favorites are still here to stay for both lunch and dinner. The Famous Cobb Salad is a classic, and for good reason. This famous dish is made up of spit-roasted turkey, bacon, egg, tomatoes, blue cheese, avocado, and a classic dressing. If Guests want to enhance this dish even more, they can add chicken or shrimp.
The sweet tooths out there will be pleased to know that the sweet staple, the Grapefruit Cake, isn’t going anywhere. This Brown Derby original combines a moist vanilla sponge cake, grapefruit syrup, and cream cheese icing into a dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.
We can’t wait for your Clients to drop on into The Hollywood Brown Derby this summer to try their fair share of these eats!
In our recent announcement of new Adventures by Disney destinations beginning in 2024, the stunning Eastern Maritimes of Canada are sure to be a guest favorite! This new departure to Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, which is available to book now, is full of natural beauty and outdoor activities for the entire family.
In our recent announcement of new Adventures by Disney destinations beginning in 2024, the stunning Eastern Maritimes of Canada are sure to be a guest favorite! This new departure to Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, which is available to book now, is full of natural beauty and outdoor activities for the entire family.
Let’s take a closer look into what guests will experience.
Adventure Begins in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia, located on the east coast and almost completely surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, is home to three national parks and is known for its historical appeal. Upon arriving in Halifax, just one look out the airplane window and guests will immediately transported to vacation mode. The magnificent ocean and the lush landscape give a peek into what guests will experience over the next eight days.
This land adventure begins at the Sugar Moon Farm and tasting authentic maple syrup tapped on site. Guests will learn the process that takes this deliciousness from tree to table.
The Charm of Prince Edward Island
The adventure next features a picturesque ferry ride to Prince Edward Island, located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence – meaning endless beaches and fresh sea air. The stunning white shingled tower and red iron lantern of the Wood Islands Lighthouse, built in 1876, are striking contrasts against the beautiful blue skies. Local guides will lead a tour and share the history of the lighthouse, plus guests will learn about the area’s sea life and sea glass which support the area’s aquatic ecosystem.
Junior Adventures will have their own kite making and flying activity on the shore, and it will be a beautiful site to watch the sea breeze carry the kites high in the sky.
Fans of the “Anne of Green Gables” stories will recognize Avonlea Village, the fictitious name author Lucy Maud Montgomery gave to Cavendish. Here, guests will explore the historic buildings and visit the museum dedicated to the noted author and the schoolhouse where she taught. Avonlea Village is dotted with replications of houses and shops from the time of the novels. Guests can even opt to roll up their sleeves to plant and dig potatoes, take a carriage ride, and have tea with a descendant of her family.
The Confederation Bridge, an Engineering Marvel
En route to the mainland, guests will stop at the Confederation Bridge, a magnificent display of Canadian engineering, before embarking on a relaxing boat cruise on the calm waters of Shediac Bay. An expert in lobstering will share about sustainable and responsible fishing practices, followed by lunch onboard.
More fun awaits at the Funday Bay (pun intended!). During low tide, guests will embark on a privately guided tour of the open ocean floor and hear stories about the origin of Hopewell Rocks Park. At Hopewell Rocks, select from a variety of activities, such as kayaking, horseback riding, or bike riding followed by canoeing. Not to be missed is watching high tide come in that evening. And be sure to look up after sunset to see a beautiful star-filled sky.
Let’s Explore Halifax
Our next stop is the Millbrook Cultural Center to learn about the Mi’kmaq people, their traditions and ceremonies, and the significance of the Talking Stick. Historically and culturally, the Talking Stick is a tool to keep order and teach respect for others. Guests will even select their own stick to take home and personalize it with accessories such as beads, paint and feathers.
The final day of this inspiring trip will include exploring the Trans-Canada Trail and hiking along the renovated railway trail. Adventures by Disney itineraries also have built-in on-your-own time for guests to dine, shop or explore the region like locals.
Following the morning and early afternoon activities, everyone will gather for a sailing on a 130-foot schooner called the M/S Silva. The tall ship, constructed in the 1930s, will sail through Halifax Harbour with views of historical landmarks and beautiful scenery. The farewell dinner is in a restored 1800s warehouse converted into a nautical-themed pub. Celtic entertainment and a hearty, authentic Nova Scotia meal will leave everyone with memories to last a lifetime.
As with every Adventures by Disney trip, our Disney-trained Adventures Guides lead every step of the way and take care of all the details, ensuring a fun-filled, hassle-free vacation. They even plan activities for the Junior Adventures (younger guests)!
Let’s take a closer look into what guests will experience.
Adventure Begins in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia, located on the east coast and almost completely surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, is home to three national parks and is known for its historical appeal. Upon arriving in Halifax, just one look out the airplane window and guests will immediately transported to vacation mode. The magnificent ocean and the lush landscape give a peek into what guests will experience over the next eight days.
This land adventure begins at the Sugar Moon Farm and tasting authentic maple syrup tapped on site. Guests will learn the process that takes this deliciousness from tree to table.
The Charm of Prince Edward Island
The adventure next features a picturesque ferry ride to Prince Edward Island, located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence – meaning endless beaches and fresh sea air. The stunning white shingled tower and red iron lantern of the Wood Islands Lighthouse, built in 1876, are striking contrasts against the beautiful blue skies. Local guides will lead a tour and share the history of the lighthouse, plus guests will learn about the area’s sea life and sea glass which support the area’s aquatic ecosystem.
Junior Adventures will have their own kite making and flying activity on the shore, and it will be a beautiful site to watch the sea breeze carry the kites high in the sky.
Fans of the “Anne of Green Gables” stories will recognize Avonlea Village, the fictitious name author Lucy Maud Montgomery gave to Cavendish. Here, guests will explore the historic buildings and visit the museum dedicated to the noted author and the schoolhouse where she taught. Avonlea Village is dotted with replications of houses and shops from the time of the novels. Guests can even opt to roll up their sleeves to plant and dig potatoes, take a carriage ride, and have tea with a descendant of her family.
The Confederation Bridge, an Engineering Marvel
En route to the mainland, guests will stop at the Confederation Bridge, a magnificent display of Canadian engineering, before embarking on a relaxing boat cruise on the calm waters of Shediac Bay. An expert in lobstering will share about sustainable and responsible fishing practices, followed by lunch onboard.
More fun awaits at the Funday Bay (pun intended!). During low tide, guests will embark on a privately guided tour of the open ocean floor and hear stories about the origin of Hopewell Rocks Park. At Hopewell Rocks, select from a variety of activities, such as kayaking, horseback riding, or bike riding followed by canoeing. Not to be missed is watching high tide come in that evening. And be sure to look up after sunset to see a beautiful star-filled sky.
Let’s Explore Halifax
Our next stop is the Millbrook Cultural Center to learn about the Mi’kmaq people, their traditions and ceremonies, and the significance of the Talking Stick. Historically and culturally, the Talking Stick is a tool to keep order and teach respect for others. Guests will even select their own stick to take home and personalize it with accessories such as beads, paint and feathers.
The final day of this inspiring trip will include exploring the Trans-Canada Trail and hiking along the renovated railway trail. Adventures by Disney itineraries also have built-in on-your-own time for guests to dine, shop or explore the region like locals.
Following the morning and early afternoon activities, everyone will gather for a sailing on a 130-foot schooner called the M/S Silva. The tall ship, constructed in the 1930s, will sail through Halifax Harbour with views of historical landmarks and beautiful scenery. The farewell dinner is in a restored 1800s warehouse converted into a nautical-themed pub. Celtic entertainment and a hearty, authentic Nova Scotia meal will leave everyone with memories to last a lifetime.
As with every Adventures by Disney trip, our Disney-trained Adventures Guides lead every step of the way and take care of all the details, ensuring a fun-filled, hassle-free vacation. They even plan activities for the Junior Adventures (younger guests)!
Disney officials have canceled a $1 billion project that was previously set for Walt Disney World Resort.
Known as “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” Walt Disney World Resort welcomes millions of Guests to its four theme parks– Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom– as well as the Disney Spring shopping and dining district, and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park. Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park is currently closed for refurbishment but is expected to reopen later this year.
Disney has also been at the forefront of expansion. TRON Lightcycle / Run just opened at Magic Kingdom Park, and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is set to open in the place of Splash Mountain in “late 2024.” In addition, Disney has already teased major expansions coming to Magic Kingdom Park and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, but nothing has been confirmed.
Over the last several months, however, Disney has been in battle with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis amid disputes over the Reedy Creek Improvement District. Disney spoke in opposition to the Parental Rights in Education bill last year, and has since come under fire from the Florida government over its self-governing abilities in Walt Disney World Resort.
Disney recently filed a lawsuit against Ron DeSantis and the governor’s newly-appointed Central Florida Tourism Oversight District board filed a counter lawsuit against Disney. Though The Walt Disney Company has filed for the lawsuit to be dismissed, neither of the complaints has moved forward in court yet.
Now, in the midst of these complaints, Disney has decided to pull one major project out of Florida.
Reporter Scott Gustin shared the news that, in an email to staff, Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro revealed the massive $1 billion expansion would not happen.
NEW: In an email to staff, Josh D'Amaro says the company decided "not to move forward with construction" of the Lake Nona campus.
The Lake Nona Campus was originally set to house Walt Disney Imagineers, but the project has now been pulled out of the state of Florida. Disney shared in the email that it will no longer be asking employees to relocate to Florida. In addition, the company said it will help pull out those employees who moved from California to Florida in preparation for the project and assist them in moving out of the state and back to California.
Josh D’Amaro did share that Disney “remains optimistic” about the direction of the Walt Disney World business and that the company still has plans to invest $17 billion and create more than 13,000 jobs over the next 10 years at Walt Disney World, finishing by saying, “I hope we are able to do so.”
The full memo from Josh D’Amaro can be read here, from reporter Scott Gustin:
An update from Governor Ron DeSantis shares the statement from the Florida governor on Disney’s decision. You can read it below:
NEW: Press office for @GovRonDeSantis responds to Disney canceling Lake Nona:
"Given the company’s financial straits, falling market cap, and declining stock price, it is unsurprising that they would restructure their business operations and cancel unsuccessful ventures.” pic.twitter.com/Pf15IB8tfT
