Disney's New Attractions, Experiences Revealed & Abortion-Rights Group Drops Appeal
August 19, 2024 — This Week's Top Stories in Florida
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Here’s the latest from Florida…
Disney Unveils Ambitious Theme Park Expansions at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event
At Disney's D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, the entertainment giant announced a series of ambitious expansions and new attractions, signaling a transformative era for its theme parks. Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro revealed plans that sparked excitement among fans eagerly anticipating the future of Disney’s parks. In one of the most significant announcements, Magic Kingdom will see its largest expansion in history, introducing a Cars-themed land in Frontierland. This new area inspired by the Pixar franchise will feature an exciting off-road rally race across rugged terrains, mudholes, and around geysers, and an attraction for younger guests. Construction will begin in early 2025 and replace Frontierland’s Liberty Square Riverboat (Rivers of America) and Tom Sawyer Island. Among the most anticipated announcements from D23, a dedicated Villains Land will be added to Magic Kingdom, offering a dark, immersive experience inspired by classic Disney villains – a first for any of its global theme parks. This land will include two major attractions, dining options, and themed shopping, creating a “fearless new vision” of a Disney experience that diverges from the usual fairytale endings.
Meanwhile, a new nighttime parade, Disney Starlight, is set to illuminate Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom starting in Summer 2025. This parade will feature characters from Peter Pan, Frozen, Encanto, and more, using cutting-edge technology to bring these beloved stories to life. The excitement continues at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where a full land dedicated to Monsters, Inc. is set to debut. The signature attraction, Disney’s first-ever suspended coaster, will take guests on a thrilling ride through the factory door vault, just like Mike and Sulley in the beloved film. This vibrant and immersive land will allow visitors to experience the lively streets of Monstropolis firsthand. On the other side of Hollywood Studios, it was revealed that the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run simulator ride will get a new mission starring The Mandalorian’s Mando and Grogu, set to launch in 2026 alongside the release of The Mandalorian & Grogu film. At Animal Kingdom, the next few years will deliver major additions, beginning with the retheming of DINOLAND, U.S.A. into the Tropical Americas. Spanning 11 acres, this new area will introduce two signature attractions: an Encanto-themed ride that continues Antonio’s story, and an Indiana Jones attraction that reimagines the existing Dinosaur ride. In this adventure, guests will explore a newly discovered Maya temple, with rumors of a mythical creature awaiting within. Coming to EPCOT in 2025, Test Track will be reimagined in collaboration with Chevrolet, celebrating the innovations in vehicle engineering through the past, present, and future. EPCOT will also introduce a new lounge inspired by the iconic Spaceship Earth. Back at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, a new Zootopia show will be brought to the Tree of Life Theater, while a Pirates of the Caribbean-themed tavern is planned for Adventureland at Magic Kingdom, adding to the new, unforgettable experiences for guests in the years ahead.
Abortion-Rights Group Drops Appeal Over Florida Ballot Language
The Floridians Protecting Freedom committee has dropped its appeal to the Florida Supreme Court opposing the financial impact statement for a proposed abortion-rights constitutional amendment this November. The language was revised by a panel of economists after the Court ruled to allow the state’s six-week abortion limit to take effect. The financial impact statement appears on the ballot alongside Amendment 4 and was updated to include mention of uncertainty about whether the measure will require Florida to subsidize abortions with public funds. Additionally, the revised statement mentions that the amendment, if approved, may "result in additional costs to the state government and state courts that will negatively impact the state budget." The Financial Impact Estimating Conference revised the estimated financial effects of the pro-choice amendment at the direction of House Speaker Paul Renner (R-Palm Coast) and Senate President Kathleen Passidomo (R-Naples). Floridians Protecting Freedom dropped its case before the 1st District Court of Appeal after concluding it does not likely conflict with legal precedent. However, the pro-abortion advocacy group will continue to pursue a separate case at the state Supreme Court to challenge the authority of legislative leaders to direct the revision of the statement, claiming it is political and misleading.
School Districts, Cities Crack Down on Careless Drivers
This week marked the first day of school for Central Florida students and school districts and municipalities are taking action to enhance safety with new measures targeting incautious and speeding drivers. Hillsborough County has equipped its nearly 1,000 school buses with cameras to capture drivers illegally passing stopped buses, with fines starting at $225 after a 30-day warning period. This initiative, the largest of its kind in Florida, aims to curb daily incidents of vehicles passing stopped buses, which transport 78,000 students daily. Additionally, Tampa has joined other local governments in installing cameras in school zones to catch speeders, with fines for drivers exceeding the speed limit by over 10 miles per hour. The program rolled out in 13 school zones as the 2024 academic year began. The initiative is made possible by a new state law, which allows school districts and local governments to take action to reduce traffic violations and improve student safety.
Federal Judge Rules Florida's Transgender Health Care Ban Discriminatory
A federal judge has ruled that Florida's ban on transgender health care coverage for state employees violates their civil rights under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The lawsuit, filed in 2020 by three current and former state employees, challenged the state’s exclusion of coverage for “gender reassignment” or “modification services.” Chief U.S. District Judge Mark Walker found that Florida’s categorical prohibition of coverage unfairly targets transgender employees by denying them medically necessary treatment for gender dysphoria, which he stated should be based on patient needs rather than blanket exclusions. Judge Walker added that Florida’s actions constituted a denial of an employment opportunity on the basis of sex since health benefits make up a large portion of an employee’s compensation package. A trial was ordered to determine damages owed to the plaintiffs.
Tampa Real Estate in Turmoil After Judge's Surprise Ruling
A Hillsborough County judge's recent decision has sparked legal distress in Tampa's real estate circles, challenging the city council's authority to make land-use decisions. The dispute began when developer Liberty Group proposed to build a hotel on the affluent enclave of Harbour Island and was twice denied by the Tampa City Council, prompting the developer to sue. However, instead of ruling on the case's merits, Hillsborough Circuit Court Judge Anne-Leigh Gaylord Moe questioned the council's legal authority to conduct quasi-judicial hearings on zoning matters, a common process used by local governments for decades. The judge’s order says such authority is an executive power left to the mayor or an appointee. The ruling has caused concern among developers and city officials, with potential statewide implications for how municipalities handle zoning and land-use issues. Developers and lawyers are scrambling to understand the impact as representatives for Liberty Group say the proposed 10-story AC Marriott hotel along S. Harbour Island Blvd. can likely move forward.
Clearwater Votes to Study Creating Own Electric Utility, Despite Objections
The Clearwater City Council has approved a study to explore creating a city-run electric utility, which could result in shifting away from Duke Energy as the city's power provider. Despite strong opposition from Duke Energy, one of the largest electricity companies in the U.S., the council unanimously voted to spend up to $500,000 on the nine-month study, which would examine potential cost savings to residents on their power bills. This decision comes as Clearwater's 30-year agreement with Duke nears its end in December 2025, giving the city leverage in negotiations. Duke Energy warned that the process could be "lengthy, expensive, and very complicated," as it would involve eminent domain to acquire Duke's infrastructure. The study will assess the feasibility, costs, and benefits of a municipal utility, potentially setting the stage for a contentious battle between the city and the utility giant. In 2005, Winter Park separated from a private electric utility to create their own after voters overwhelmingly passed a referendum measure, allowing the city to purchase the existing electric infrastructure for $47 million. Unlike Winter Park, Clearwater does not have a purchase option in its agreement with Duke Energy.
Tampa Airport CEO Among the Highest-Paid Aviation Executives
Tampa International Airport CEO Joe Lopano will earn over $1.1 million in compensation in his final year before retirement, making him one of the highest-paid airport CEO in the U.S. The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority board approved a $300,000 bonus on top of Lopano's base salary, which was increased by 10% to about $839,000 for 2024. Lopano, who has led the airport since 2011, is recognized for his significant contributions to the region's economic growth and has garnered broad support for his leadership and impact. The airport has experienced significant passenger and revenue growth under his leadership, including attracting new airlines, and international routes, and overseeing a multi-billion facility expansion.
Universal Unveils Harry Potter’s Ministry of Magic Land at Epic Universe
Universal Orlando has revealed details about its upcoming Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, set to debut at the new Epic Universe theme park. The park, currently under construction and slated to open in 2025, will feature a Harry Potter-themed land centered on the Ministry of Magic, transporting visitors to both the London offices and 1920s Paris from the "Fantastic Beasts" films. The park will feature attractions including an immersive ride – Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry – and Le Cirque Arcanus, a circus show with performers and special effects. The new land promises guests an immersive experience where they can use interactive wands and encounter beloved characters. Epic Universe, with a $1 billion budget, will also host lands themed around “How to Train Your Dragon,” Super Nintendo World, and other popular franchises.
Space Florida Launches Academy Program for North Central Florida School Districts
Space Florida has partnered with 23 school districts, including six in North Central Florida, to launch the Space Florida Academy Program. The initiative aims to equip students with in-demand skills and credentials for careers in the aerospace industry while addressing sector needs. The program will focus on seven key areas, including aviation, advanced manufacturing, and cybersecurity. Collaborations with industry leaders, educational institutions, and state agencies will provide students with a pathway to high-demand careers, further solidifying Florida's position as a global leader in aerospace innovation.
BayCare Health System to Receive Up to $1.9 Billion in Bond Funding
BayCare Health System has been approved to receive up to $1.9 billion in tax-exempt bonds by Hillsborough County’s Industrial Development Authority to finance renovations and new facilities across the region. The funding will support several projects including a new 154-bed hospital in Palmetto, a 146-bed hospital replacement for Plant City’s South Florida Baptist, expansions at existing hospitals, and construction of standalone emergency room facilities. The funding will also finance the new, specially designed St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Tampa which is expected to open in 2030. This investment will enhance regional healthcare services, access, and meet the demands of the Tampa Bay region’s growing population while also creating jobs. The Hillsborough County’s Industrial Development Authority issues bonds to finance qualified capital projects to create new jobs, preserve existing jobs, and boost the county economy. While the $1.9 billion in tax-exempt funding will support BayCare projects outside of Hillsborough County, the committee noted it will deliver greater efficiencies to benefit the region’s communities. Clearwater-based BayCare, the largest healthcare provider in West Central Florida, has been expanding aggressively with four new hospital projects pursued in the past five years.
Hillsborough County Schools Acquires Land for New Schools in Plant City
Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) has purchased two parcels of land in Plant City to build three new schools: a high school, a middle school, and an elementary school. The separate sites, totaling 69 acres, were acquired for $36.25 million. The new schools aim to address overcrowding in existing schools, with Plant City High School expected to reach 105% capacity this year. The district is the seventh-largest in the U.S. with 220,000 students and has prioritized building schools in proximity to growing communities, ensuring access for students and buses. The area where the land was purchased is also permitted for 5,000 new homes as the east side of Hillsborough County has seen an influx of families, with studies projecting Plant City’s population will more than double by 2050.
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