Space shuttle launch as seen from Disney’s Beach Club Resort.

The famed artist Thomas Kinkade now offers “Pinocchio Wishes Upon A Star” which will coincide with the 70th anniversary of the film. "It is one of my most meticulously detailed and time-consuming works, but it was a labor of love," Kinkade said in a news release. "Finding all the hidden elements is my challenge to collectors."

Some of the things to look for are a very small but full portrait of Walt Disney, a rooster, a Mickey Mouse balloon, 5 hearts and several hidden Mickeys. Probably the most difficult thing of all to find is a portrait of Kinkade himself.

For more information www.thomaskinkade.com

The restaurant Spoodles is being replaced on Disney’s boardwalk. The new restaurant to take it’s place is Kouzzina (Greek for “kitchen” and pronounced “koo-zee-nah”) It is being opened by Cat Cora and will feature Mediterranean style food. Kouzzina will be owned and operated by Walt Disney World.

Typhoon Lagoon re-opens on Sunday March 22nd after a longer than usual winter rehab. There are believed to be some changes including:
Miss Tilly's vessel – Remove & reinstall rockwork & support steel.
Castaway Creek at Crush 'N' Gusher Beach and Wave Pool – Wave pool replacement.

It appears that Sea Worlds manta Roller Coaster is now testing using “Water Dummies” to add weight. It is due to open on May 22nd the weekend before Memorial Day.

Here are some stats on Manta

Top speed: 56 mph

3 trains seating 32 people each.

4 inversions.

Max drop: 113 feet. Max height: 140 feet.

Ride length: 2 minutes, 35 seconds. Track length: 3,359 feet.

Wing span: 12 feet.