What is it? This trio of tastes includes White Chocolate Macadamia Mousse with Dark Chocolate Pearls, Tres Leches Verrine and Lemon Chiffon.
Where is it? The Dessert and Champagne marketplace during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival at Walt Disney World
Why you want it? Cause why have one dessert when you can have 3!
Youth athletes competing in the Pop Warner Super Bowl will gain additional national exposure as part of a 10-year contract renewal with ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at the Walt Disney World Resort.
Under the contract extension, which runs through 2019, more than 40 hours of live game coverage and game action cut-ins will be shown on ESPN3.com. In addition, the Division I Midget national championship game will be aired on ESPN2 and other networks.
The expanded national coverage of the Pop Warner Super Bowl is the result of the ESPN rebranding of the 250-acre Disney sports complex, which included the addition of 40 high-definition video screens (three are jumbo screens), 56 high-definition cameras and a state-of-the-art HD and 3D Production Center with direct links to ESPN facilities in Bristol, Conn., New York and Los Angeles, which, collectively, gives more national exposure for the more than 350 events staged annually at the complex.
“We are thrilled to create more exposure nationally for the youth athletes who work so hard every season to reach the Pop Warner Super Bowl at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex,’’ said Ken Potrock, Senior Vice President of Disney Sports Enterprises and Downtown Disney. “Expanding the opportunities to showcase America’s youth athletes is just one of the many ways we are working with our key partners such as Pop Warner to help take youth sports to the next level.’’
The Pop Warner Super Bowl is part of the Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. (PWLS), the nation’s largest and oldest youth football, cheer and dance organization. The PWLS is a national non-profit organization that endorses and promotes teamwork, responsibility, leadership and scholastic achievement among young boys and girls ages 5 to 16.
“We’ve had a wonderful relationship with Disney for the past 14 years and we’re looking forward to continuing to work with them to make our event even better,” said Jon Butler, Executive Director, Pop Warner Little Scholars. “With the re-branding and impactful technical upgrades from ESPN, the ESPN Wide World of Sports maintains its position as the best venue to host a youth sports event.”
Many NFL players got their starts playing Pop Warner football, including Maurice Jones-Drew (Jacksonville Jaguars), Adrian Peterson (Minnesota Vikings) and Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow (Denver Broncos). The NFL Players Association estimates that roughly 70 percent of current NFL players have played Pop Warner football.
This year’s 55th annual Pop Warner Super Bowl (Dec. 3-10), which includes the Pop Warner National Cheer and Dance Championships, will be held at Walt Disney World Resort for the 17th time, extending Disney’s decade-long association with the event. Walt Disney himself attended the 1959 Pop Warner title game when it was held in Anaheim, Ca.
Welcome to this week’s Chip and Company Disney Week In Review. There was a lot happening this week including information that a lot of us, fall visitors to Walt Disney World, have been waiting for. We have also got a couple of new Facebook pages that we encourage you to visit: First – You Might Be A Disney Addict If… and Second – Disney For Seniors . We sincerely hope you enjoy both of these pages and will give us a “Like” and visit regularly. Now, on to this week’ news and views.
That’s this week’s sampling of the news so it’s time for a quick look at the thoughts and views of our staff of very talented writers. Our writers have a wealth of Disney knowledge and experience that they love to share so be sure to stop by Chip and Company and enjoy!! Here is just a quick sample.
That’s all for this week. Like I asked above, please try to stop by our new Facebook pages You Might Be A Disney Addict If… and Disney For Seniors and let us know what you think. As always, enjoy your visit to Walt Disney World!!
Ken
The park is celebrating its fifth anniversary this year, and in honor of this milestone, they have introduced a character that had never before appeared at the park. Although our domestic parks have featured her for years, this special celebration marked the introduction of Tinker Bell to Hong Kong Disneyland.
The park has welcomed Peter Pan’s top pixie in grand style, temporarily transforming their Sleeping Beauty Castle into Tinker Bell Castle, with the addition of gold elements that represent a sprinkling of pixie dust that glitters during the day and sparkles at night.
So, what do you think of the castle?
See what else has been happening at our resorts around the world:
Source Disney Parks Blog
Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Vice President of Animals, Science and Environment Jackie Ogden, Ph.D., has been elected to serve as the vice-chair of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) board of directors.
Founded in 1924, the AZA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science and recreation. “The AZA community recognizes Jackie Ogden’s strong leadership abilities,” said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy. “Her extensive experience will greatly benefit AZA-accredited facilities and ultimately their care of animals.” Dr. Ogden will serve on the AZA board of directors as one of its four officers, each of whom also serves on the board’s executive committee. As vice-chair, she will be involved in every aspect of the national organization, including accreditation, ethics, animal welfare, and conservation.
“As a company, Disney has a long legacy of caring for the animals that share our planet,” said Dr. Ogden. “I am incredibly honored to serve in this role with the AZA and look forward to advancing the conservation, science and education mission of the nation’s 213 accredited zoos and aquariums.” Dr. Ogden’s Disney career began in 1997 and she currently oversees the team of professionals who are responsible for inspiring millions of Disney guests, employees and business partners to conserve wildlife and the environment.
Her scope includes animal care, health, education and science at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, The Seas with Nemo & Friends at Epcot, the Tri-Circle D Ranch, Castaway Cay, and soon, Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii. She also leads the Agricultural and Water Sciences team, Environmental Integration and has responsibility for animal operations and environmental sustainability across Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.
At Walt Disney World Resort in 2011, it begins to look a lot like Christmas as early as Nov. 8. Santa’s elves bedazzle every corner of the Vacation Kingdom for a seasonal spectacle filled with heartwarming stage productions, enchanting parades, garlands and wreaths, millions of sparkling lights and even the first flakes of winter.
And with a ho, ho, whole lot of cheer being spread over more than a month, guests have more choice as to when they join in the magical, one-of-a-kind celebration.
Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade – King Louie and Baloo lead a rousing musical cavalcade – safari style – through the park from Nov. 8 to Jan. 4, 2012, during Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade. The wild side of Disney’s Animal Kingdom blends with a playful spirit of the holidays as Chip & Dale, stilt walkers and savannah friends dance alongside decorative floats at 4 p.m. daily. The savory scent of chocolate floats thru the air as Minnie’s candy cane and hot cocoa float roll by.
Santa Goofy’s Holiday Village at Camp Minnie-Mickey has decked the halls big time with festive décor. A perfectly trimmed Christmas tree adorned with animal crafted ornaments welcomes guests at the park’s entrance. Carolers spread holiday cheer and Santa Goofy and friends greet guests for photo opportunities.
At Walt Disney World Resort in 2011, it begins to look a lot like Christmas as early as Nov. 8. Santa’s elves bedazzle every corner of the Vacation Kingdom for a seasonal spectacle filled with heartwarming stage productions, enchanting parades, garlands and wreaths, millions of sparkling lights and even the first flakes of winter.
And with a ho, ho, whole lot of cheer being spread over more than a month, guests have more choice as to when they join in the magical, one-of-a-kind celebration.
The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights – Entering the Hollywood Studios backlot, guests discover a virtual city of lights. On, over and among the cityscape buildings are millions of dazzling bulbs, dancing lights and animated displays synchronized to high-energy holiday tunes at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Nov. 10-Jan. 3, 2012.
It’s truly a mega-watt spectacle for the eyes with colorful wreaths, twirling carousels, flying angels, Santa and his reindeer, swirling snow flurries, and amazing 3-D effects around every corner.
The tradition began in 1986 in Arkansas, at the home of businessman Jennings Osborne, who strung 1,000 lights as a Christmas gift to his daughter. After the exhibit grew larger and brighter each year, it was transported to Disney in 1995 where the light exhibit now mesmerizes guests from all over the world each year. The tradition continues after Jennings’ death on July 27, 2011.
At Walt Disney World Resort in 2011, it begins to look a lot like Christmas as early as Nov. 8. Santa’s elves bedazzle every corner of the Vacation Kingdom for a seasonal spectacle filled with heartwarming stage productions, enchanting parades, garlands and wreaths, millions of sparkling lights and even the first flakes of winter.
And with a ho, ho, whole lot of cheer being spread over more than a month, guests have more choice as to when they join in the magical, one-of-a-kind celebration.
Candelight Processional – An inspirational retelling of the Christmas story accompanied by a mass choir and 50-piece live orchestra punctuates the reason for the season during this time-honored Epcot tradition. Each evening Nov. 26-Dec. 30, 2011, a celebrity narrator (from a lineup that includes Steven Curtis Chapman, Whoopi Goldberg and Marlee Matlin) takes to the America Gardens Theatre stage and shares the story of Christ’s birth. Guests can sing along as the trumpeters and full orchestra offer a riveting performance featuring seasonal melodies. Shows are at 5, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.
To ensure a seat for this memorable performance, Candlelight Dinner packages are available at select Epcot restaurants. They include a special fireworks viewing area and guaranteed seating for Candlelight Processional. For bookings call 407-WDW-DINE.
Holidays around the World – Throughout World Showcase, international storytellers share traditions and tales from their homeland. Strolling along the promenade during the Holidays around the World celebration may put you face-to-face with the good-hearted witch La Befana, known in Italy for filling children’s shoes with treats, or the jolly gift-bearer Father Christmas in the United Kingdom. There are meet and greets with Santa and Mrs. Claus in the American Adventure, plus other legendary icons who share messages of goodwill. The celebrations of Kwanzaa and Hanukkah are celebrated as well.
The evening is capped by “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth,” the mesmerizing Epcot spectacular on World Showcase lagoon featuring fireworks, laser lights and water choreographed to a musical soundtrack – with a holiday finale.
At Walt Disney World Resort in 2011, it begins to look a lot like Christmas as early as Nov. 8. Santa’s elves bedazzle every corner of the Vacation Kingdom for a seasonal spectacle filled with heartwarming stage productions, enchanting parades, garlands and wreaths, millions of sparkling lights and even the first flakes of winter.
And with a ho, ho, whole lot of cheer being spread over more than a month, guests have more choice as to when they join in the magical, one-of-a-kind celebration.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – On 19 special nights, holiday revelers can delight during this cheery, family-friendly event. Party-goers embrace the joys of the season – sipping cocoa, catching a “snowflake” and enjoying merry shows, fireworks, carolers and special character meet and greets.
This after-hours party on select nights between Nov. 8 and Dec. 18, 2011, features a sleigh full of merriment:
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will take place Nov. 8, 9, 11, 13, 15, 18, 27, 29, 30, Dec. 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16 and 18, 2011, from 7 p.m. until midnight. Day-of-event pricing is $62.95 and $57.95 for ages 3 to 9. Savings of $6 per ticket are available if tickets are purchased in advance. Visit Disneyworld.com/holidays.
Also happening at the Magic Kingdom:
Castle Dream Lights – Each evening of the season, Cinderella Castle shimmers with lights brought to beaming brightness during a ceremonial show performed at dusk. Beginning Nov. 8 and continuing through Jan. 3, 2012, Cinderella and favorite Disney characters decked out in festive holiday garb take center stage and magically transform Cinderella Castle into an ice palace draped with 200,000 ice cycle-white lights – a breathtaking focal point to a park ready for revelers with wreaths, bows, garland, towering Christmas trees and scarlet poinsettias dominating the landscape.
The 36th Festival of the Masters is a vibrant open-air art festival in the Downtown Disney area. Featuring nearly 150 award-winning artists, discover why this world-renowned show is a much-anticipated annual event for Guests, artists, collectors and art lovers.
Showcasing one-of-a-kind and limited edition painting, photography, sculpture, jewelry and more, this prestigious show is ranked among the country’s finest outdoor art festivals. There’s a lot more to enjoy, too, like amazing chalk art, live music, specialty foods and family-friendly activities.
Dates and Times
If you are an artist and wish to be considered for Festival of the Masters please visit www.juriedartservices.com.
Downtown Disney area admission and parking are complimentary.*Entertainment and activities are subject to change without notice.
Be a part of the final PGA TOUR event of the season. The Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Classic will be held October 20-23, 2011 at the Walt Disney World® Resort. Come out and watch Robert Garrigus defend his title against some of the best players in the world. In its history, the event has crowned 13 champions who have also won majors, including Tiger Woods, Vijay Singh and Davis Love III.
Unique food and beverage options will be available, including food and wine pairings from some of the top restaurants at the Walt Disney World® Resort.
Net proceeds from the Children’s Miracle Network Classic directly benefit Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in Orlando and Shands Children’s Hospital at University of Florida in Gainesville. Donations create miracles by funding medical care, research and education that saves and improves the lives of 17 million children each year.
For more information regarding the tournament, visit www.childrensmiraclenetworkclassic.com.
The Sunshine Pavilion, featuring a show variously known as “Tropical Serenade” and “The Enchanted Tiki Birds,” debuted on Oct. 1, 1971, in Magic Kingdom. In 1998, following substantial refurbishment, it re-launched as The Enchanted Tiki Room-Under New Management, with two famous Disney birds – Iago from Aladdin and Zazu from The Lion King– taking control and trying to spruce up the show.
Now the “new management” has been let go and the future of the Adventureland landmark is in the wings and wit of José, Fritz, Michael and Pierre – four crooning parrot hosts who have been entertaining guests at California’s Disneyland since 1963 in The Enchanted Tiki Room. Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, as the Magic Kingdom attraction now will be called, is being prepared for the premiere (tentatively on Aug. 15, 2011) of a show that will pay tribute to the Disneyland original – notable in theme park history for ushering in sophisticated Audio-Animatronics technology.
Prior to 1963, Walt Disney’s creative team had produced movable figures, but none had the sophistication of the bird-brained cast of the Tiki Room. José, Fritz, Michael and Pierre produce movements when solenoid coils hidden inside receive signals recorded onto magnetic tape and are regarded as the first “true” Audio-Animatronics figures.
They introduce a musical presentation by more than 200 birds, flowers and tikis. Even the audience gets into the act, joining in during the musical ditty “Let’s All Sing Like the Birdies Sing.”
While the show is steeped in tradition and maintains the original intent created by Walt Disney and his original team of Imagineers, Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room will feature the latest in technology – a state of the art show-control system, remastered audio, and a new versatile and energy efficient lighting system.
The attraction has shows throughout Magic Kingdom operating hours.
