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Pixar Chief John Lasseter to Cameo in ‘Cars 2’

By
Chip
-

Pixar Chief John Lasseter to Cameo in 'Cars 2'

John Lasseter is unwittingly driving into the next installment of “Cars.”

The producers of “Cars 2” surprised the Disney and Pixar animation chief in honor of Pixar’s 25th anniversary by introducing a hefty yellow pick-up truck named John Lassetire — get it? — in the upcoming sequel. Lasseter said they registered the character’s name to celebrate the animation studio behind such films as “Toy Story,” ”WALL-E” and “Up.”

“It was news to me,” said Lasseter, who is also serving as a director on the animated film. “I did not know about that, so I was a little surprised. I ended up voicing this character. It was just one line, but now I have a ‘Cars’ character. I’m very excited about that. He’s a good ol’ American pick-up truck, which I think is very appropriate for John Lassetire.”

Lasseter’s character serves as the pit crew chief for a high-profile race car. In the sequel, slick race car Lightning McQueen and his tow truck friend Mater set off on an around-the-world adventure. “Cars 2” producer Denise Ream said she was inspired to inject Lasseter in the film by George Lucas’ brief cameo in “Star Wars: Episode III — Revenge of the Sith.”

Over the past few weeks, the studio has been teasing several new additions to the cast, including blue British spy ride Finn McMissile (voiced by Michael Caine), purple sportster Holley Shiftwell (Emily Mortimer), egomaniac Italian champion Francesco Bernoulli (John Turturro) and orange henchman Grem (Joe Mantegna). “Cars 2” is scheduled for release June 24.

Source

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Pixar Chief John Lasseter to Cameo in 'Cars 2'

The little things that makes Disney, Disney

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

The little things that makes Disney, Disney

In a world where the term “Customer Service” seemingly is not in the dictionary anymore, there is one thing that Walt Disney World does that nobody else does even close: Customer Service.

We have been to Disney many times over the years, and will be there many times in the future to come as well.  I have yet to remember a single time when we received anything even remotely resembling mediocre service.  I thought I would take a moment and relay to you some of those great customer service moments that, when added up, just illustrate what makes Disney, Disney.

In 2007 we spent our first trip to Disney where we actually stayed on Disney property.  This year was the Year of a Million Dreams, and during that trip we had our own special dream come true.  One morning we stopped at the Main Street Bakery for breakfast, and a Cast Member came over to Sophie and started talking to her.  She proceeded to ask her what her favorite Princess was, and Sophie indicated that it was Cinderella.  Would you believe that at that moment, the CM had the biggest chocolate chip cookie for Sophie!  She indicated that Cinderella had asked her to give the cookie to Sophie for her to enjoy that day!  Sophie was six years old, and that is a memory that she remembers to this day.

Another time on that same trip, we were speaking with one of the CMs that was stationed over at the Coronado Springs Resort.  He started asking Sophie about the trip she was having, and how much fun she was having.  After she told him about all of the details – and believe me, Sophie is the master of the details – he presented her with a very special BFF pin trading set, one for her, and one for her BFF Riley!

During our last trip to Disney, we came across a young man who was working downstairs at The Land pavilion over at Epcot.  He was so new that he was still “Earning His Ears”.  We started talking with him mainly because he reminded us of my wife’s nephew, and to send him some Pixie Dust his way, Sophie insisted that he have her Stitch pin that was on her lanyard.  He was so excited, Sophie really made his day!  That was cool because we have been on the receiving end of so much magic, it was neat that Sophie was able to part with her own magic back!

As long as I go to Disney, I don’t think I’ll ever forget the two gentlemen who were greeters at Port Orleans French Quarter the first year we stayed there.  I’m sorry to say that I don’t remember their names, but they were one of a kind (or two of a kind).  Every morning when we were leaving to go to the parks it seemed like they were there, and every morning the made a point of giving Sophie some wishing well coins, some Mardi-Gras beads, and to ask us where we were going for the day and what reservations we had that day.  When we told them, they would immediately suggest an attraction or two that we should look at, they would give us our park map, and if we were short on time they would recommend the best and quickest way for us to get where we needed to go.  They were incredible, and I’ll never forget them.

The little things that makes Disney, Disney
Engine Co. 71

But in what may be the best example of customer service, I’ve got to tell you what happened to us when we went to the Fire Station Engine Co. 71 shop last June.  We were there because my nephew is a firefighter, and we wanted to get him something fire related from there.  My niece picked out a nice shirt for him, Sophie decided that she was going to purchase Bolt with her money, and I was buying my brother-in-law a FD71 hat.  When we approached the register, there was someone else in line ahead of us, so we were waiting.  All of a sudden, the person running the register told that customer that she was sorry, but her computer went down and she needed to reboot it.  The customer decided that she didn’t want to wait for that (we were told it would take 5-10 minutes), but we decided that we would wait it out.

After about ten minutes, a supervisor came by and told us that there was a special sale going on because the computer wasn’t working, and everything that we were going to purchase was now free for us!  All told, I figure that we received about $75 worth of merchandise that night — all for free because of their computer malfunction.

We have had so many great experiences at Disney, there is no way that I can relay them all to you.  To me, the one thing that you are guaranteed to get at Disney is great customer service!

Mike is one of the writers for Chip & Company, and a Disney fan.  When he isn’t writing for C&C, you can also find him over on his blog My Dreams of Disney.  You can follow along with Mike’s journey via Facebook and Twitter.

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The little things that makes Disney, Disney

Disneyworld Hidden Gems- Epcot’s UK Pavilion, pt. 2

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
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Disneyworld Hidden Gems- Epcot's UK Pavilion, pt. 2

In this second part, we bridge the gap between the sheer historical monument of using preexisting buildings as the guide, and drawing inspiration from the typical architecture of the time period. In doing this, the atmosphere becomes much more casual and relaxed. That being said, it seems as though I’m walking around the garden of my Aunt Lillian when I stroll through the back path along the Butterfly Garden behind The Tea Caddy. Then I realise that Aunt Lillian didn’t live in England, nor did she live in a mite-little thatched cottage inspired by that of Anne Hathaway’s cottage on Stratford-upon-Avon. The 16th century is alive and well in that little thatched-roof cottage. (Although, I do wish that Character Paint would’ve paid a bit more attention to aging the bricks on the south side of The Tea Caddy facing the main street.)

Disneyworld Hidden Gems- Epcot's UK Pavilion, pt. 2

Disneyworld Hidden Gems- Epcot's UK Pavilion, pt. 2

The good news is that the thatching seems to be done authentically and with great craftsmanship. Every time I’ve walked past this shop, it makes me think of the animated Alice in Wonderland where the thatched roof is teetering on her head like a coolie hat.

Along the back path, the building delineation seems to be a bit less apparent, however at the front walk along the main walk, the next building over, “The Queens Table” is much more significant. The building is based upon typical 17th century structures complete with barge-boarded gables, intricate carvings including the clovers, chevrons and trefoils as well as the numerous glass windows. And though thatching was still a prevalent roofing material well into the 19th century, I doubt that THAT much thatching would be able to sustain against the harsh Floridian summers.

(Coincidentally, the façades overlooking Britannia Square on the back side of the Butterfly Garden  are taken directly from set drawings from “Mary Poppins”, 1964.)

Disneyworld Hidden Gems- Epcot's UK Pavilion, pt. 2

Inside the Queen’s Table, the Queen Anne room brings us into the 18th century and Lords and Ladies to the 19th century.

As we  continue down the main walk in towards the back of the pavilion, we come to a smallish garden area, complete with a Gazebo (performed in by “The British Invasion”, the tribute band). If you’ve come along the back path, through the Butterfly Garden, it’ll put you directly in the front of the square, however the main path will put you at the back of the square.

Disneyworld Hidden Gems- Epcot's UK Pavilion, pt. 2

Turning around, we find ourselves in the midst of the row homes in London. These seem to pull from the traditional styles of homes in and around the 19th century. (Including those on Downing Street.

Disneyworld Hidden Gems- Epcot's UK Pavilion, pt. 2

Disneyworld Hidden Gems- Epcot's UK Pavilion, pt. 2

(Downing Street details. Notice the overlaid brickwork.)

The “Toy Soldier” shoppe has us moving back into the 16th century with its brickwork façade with high-arched doorway and what’s more, to the left of Crown & Crest we find the most noticeable nod to the Tower of London with the clock-tower area.

Disneyworld Hidden Gems- Epcot's UK Pavilion, pt. 2

Notice the crenelation similarities as well as the arched interior doorway from the clock-tower wall above and on the Tower of London moat below. This crenelation upon the tops of walls and towers proved very useful, as the lower parts gave defenders of the castle a place to fight through, all the while blocking the tops of their bodies from assault from missiles from below.

Disneyworld Hidden Gems- Epcot's UK Pavilion, pt. 2

Finally, exiting the loop past the Sportsman’s Shoppe we find ourselves looking directly at The Rose and Crown Pub. This public house features FOUR differing archetypes of pubitecture. The Stone building of the “River” pub, the slate roof of the Provincial pub, the Brick-walled, flagstone terrace of a Dickensian, Victorian-era pub and finally, the street pub’s interior from the Victorian city-center.

Disneyworld Hidden Gems- Epcot's UK Pavilion, pt. 2

Disneyworld Hidden Gems- Epcot's UK Pavilion, pt. 2

Oh, and I almost forgot to mention the Rose and Crown’s motto: Otium com Dignitate (Leisure with Dignity) This is a much more attainable goal now that they’ve removed the “yard” of beer from the menu. (Much to the chagrin of many a man.)

Coincidentally, The “Rose and Crown” is also the name Elizabeth Bennett gives Darcy in Pride and Prejudice, 2005 as the place that she and her aunt and uncle are staying in Lambton.

I leave you with this: “When all is said, its atmosphere [England’s] still contains fewer germs of aggression and brutality per cubic foot in a crowded bus, pub or queue than in any other country in which I have lived” – Arthur Koestler

And now, shall we away to France?

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Disneyworld Hidden Gems- Epcot's UK Pavilion, pt. 2

Be Mine at Walt Disney World

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

Be Mine at Walt Disney World
What kind of Disney couple are you… adventurous, fun-loving, or romantic? With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, it’s time to plan the perfect Disney day for your sweetheart, no matter whether your budget is big or small.

There are endless possibilities. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Adventurous Spirit

Thrill Rides. With a Park Hopper Pass in hand, hit all the roller coasters and thrill rides in all four Disney theme parks.

Magic Kingdom. Ride Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

Epcot. Soar into space at Mission: SPACE, test drive a car at Test Track, and hang glide over the American West in Soarin’

Before you leave, stop at Innoventions and design and ride (using a simulator) your own thrill ride at “Sum of All Thrills.”

Hollywood Studios. An adrenaline junkie’s trip to Hollywood Studios wouldn’t be complete without riding Rock ‘n’ roller Coaster and Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. If car chases get your blood racing, stick around for the Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show.

Animal Kingdom. Expedition Everest is tops in this park. If you don’t mind getting wet, try whitewater rafting on Kali River Rapids.

Fireworks. Watch Disney’s nightly pyrotechnics hand-in-hand.

If the sky’s the limit on budget, think about adding even more thrills to your romantic day.

Richard Petty Driving Experience. The Richard Petty Driving Experience will satisfy your need for speed. Guests can either select the “Ride Along Experience” where they are passengers for 3 laps around the speedway or go behind the wheel for 8 laps with the “Rookie Experience”

Wild Africa Trek. You can’t get much more daring than hanging over cliffs to view hippos and crocs! This new tour is still offering the introductory price of $129 during Valentine’s Day, which makes my heart go pitter patter.

Fun-Loving Couple

For the couple that’s all fun and games, a morning at Magic Kingdom may be just the thing for Valentine’s Day.

What better way to start the morning than with a little friendly competition at Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin followed by a race on the Tomorrowland Speedway? The Jungle Cruise in Adventureland is all about corny fun. While you’re in that neck of the woods, why not stop by the Pirates League for a swashbuckling makeover, complete with Pirate name? The Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade is practically next door and you and your Valentine can finally determine who’s the best in the West.

You’ll probably be hungry by now so try this fun Monorail Mania Meal (courtesy of Chip and Company’s Brenda who also contributes to The Affordable Mouse). Hop on the monorail and enjoy drinks at the Wave in the Contemporary Resort, move on to the Polynesian and eat your main course at Kona Café. Desserts here are tempting but try to resist so you have room for dessert at the Grand Floridian Café.

Recreation. Work off dessert with a game of miniature golf at either Fantasia Gardens or Winter Summerland or float up in the Characters in Flight tethered balloon for a sky-high view of the Walt Disney World Resort.

Fireworks. Pick your favorite fireworks show at Disney World and end the evening with a bang.

Romance is in the Air

Spa. A massage at one of Walt Disney World’s full-service spas is the perfect start to a leisurely and romantic day.

Epcot. After you’re relaxed and refreshed, head over to Epcot and explore the pavilions in the World Showcase. Learn about different cultures by exploring the shops, getting a snack, experiencing the attractions, and best of all, enjoying the talented World Showcase Players.

Epcot Wine Walk. While you’re in Epcot’s World Showcase, try the Wine Walk. For about $20, you’ll receive six samples of wine from three different wine shops in the France, Germany, and Italy Pavilions.

Carriage Ride at Port Orleans. In early evening, make your way to Port Orleans Riverside for a romantic carriage ride for two.

Fireworks. Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World wouldn’t be complete without gazing up at the night sky with your favorite someone watching fireworks burst over the theme park.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Lisa M. Battista is the author of Beyond the Attractions: A Guide to Walt Disney World with Preschoolers When she’s not chasing after her little ones, you can most likely find her at the beach or in the kitchen trying her hand at a new recipe. You can follow her on Twitter @DisneyExplorer or become a fan of Beyond the Attractions on Facebook.

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Be Mine at Walt Disney World

Affordable Disney Vacations: How Disney’s Magical Express Gets You Home Again

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
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In my last article, I discussed using Disney’s Magical Express service to get you…and your luggage….from Orlando International airport to your Disney World resort hotel. This free transportation service is, in my opinion, one of the best perks of staying at on Disney property if you are flying. Convenient, hassle-free, and did I mention that it’s FREE? For anyone trying to plan an affordable Disney vacation, free is a great thing. (Actually, free is probably a good thing for anyone really…… 🙂  )

So how does the service work in the opposite direction? What happens when you are leaving to go home from Disney World? How do you ….and your luggage….get back to the airport?

Basically, your return trip home starts at the same time that you made your Magical Express reservations. When you give them your flight information TO Orlando, you will also give them your flight information home FROM Orlando. And when your yellow DME luggage tags and voucher booklet arrive in the mail, there will be a page that lists your flight information for your return trip.

One thing that will be noted in the booklet, is that you will receive your instructions for the bus and for your luggage about 24 hours before your checkout. You will get an envelope slipped under your door at that time with everything you need to know to get you…and your bags….to MCO in plenty of time for your flight. Basically, how this will work will depend on what airline you are flying home on.

If you are flying with one of the airlines that participate in the Resort Airline Check-In, you will have the chance to check your bags in (and receive your boarding pass) at your resort hotel. Airlines that currently participate are:

  • AirTran
  • Alaska Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Continental Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • JetBlue Airways
  • Southwest Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • US Airways

This is such a nice convenience: you check in at the desk, and give them your luggage, just as you would at bag-check in the airport. They take care of the rest. 🙂

Now there are a few other things to know about Resort Airline Check-In: You will be responsible for paying for any baggage fees in advance. There will be instructions in the above mentioned envelope about where/how to call and pay the fees, so if you are flying with one of those airlines that charges for checked bags, be sure to take care of this before you bring everything to the bag check station.  In addition, your luggage must be less than 50 pounds: if it is over, you cannot use this service, and will need to check in at the airport. Lastly, this service is only available on domestic flights.

If your airline does NOT participate in the Resort Airline Check-In program, then you are responsible for bringing your bags with you, on the DME bus, and you will check them at the airport as usual.

Either way, you will be told what time to be at the DME bus station at your resort, to board the bus back to MCO. Be aware that Disney will allow LOTS of time to get you there: they don’t want to be responsible for anyone missing their flight home! So for domestic flights, expect to be picked up at the hotel about 3 hours before your flight (your instructions will tell you exactly when) and for international flights, I believe it is closer to 4 hours before.

Even so, depending on the time of your flight, you may be able to still get in a half-day at the parks or more, if you can get your bags checked in early enough. The Resort Airline Check-In hours of operation are 5 a.m. to 1 p.m., so go early and they go play until your DME bus leaves! If you have carry-on items, you can leave them with bell services, and then retrieve them when you return to board the bus. (Note that you can check in no more than 12 hours and no less than 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight departure time. In addition, be sure to allow enough time, as during peak times there may be a line at the desk…)

We generally fly Southwest Airlines, and they just started participating in the Resort Airlines check-in service, so we were able to use that part of the service on our recent trip and I have to say that it was so nice to check our bags and then literally not worry about them until we landed at our home airport. I will say that, I did kind of hold my breath until our luggage appeared at baggage claim back home….but sure enough, they all arrived just at they were supposed to, as if by “magic”.

Note: If you have never used Disney’s Magical Express before, be sure to read the FAQs on the Disney website to help in your planning.

Nancy, her husband and college-age daughter live in the Baltimore MD area, but consider Walt Disney World their second “home”. She started her site The Affordable Mouse, as a way to share ideas about how to plan affordable Disney vacations. Her favorite things at Disney World (in no particular order) are Soarin’, most of the food in World Showcase, Illuminations…and that special brand of Disney magic that you can’t find anywhere else.

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Oldies But Goodies – Moderate Resorts, A Very Viable Option For Us

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
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Oldies But Goodies - Moderate Resorts, A Very Viable Option For Us

Oldies seem to like Deluxe Resorts. From experience, it seems they lean towards the Magic Kingdom Resorts, not necessarily for access to the park itself but for the numerous transportation options, dining options, and overall ambiance of their particular favorite. I can’t blame us (Oldies), we love them and stay at them regularly also. But, deluxe is not the only category that would appeal to Seniors. In general, the Moderates offer the opportunity for fabulous visits, particularly visits of more that 7 or 8 days because they are less expensive.

Moderates tend to have fewer amenities than Deluxe but what they have is entirely adequate for the average Senior. If you have severe mobility issues the Deluxe category is probably for you because the resorts are more compact and involve less walking, but as I mentioned, for the average Senior the Moderate resorts should not be an issue. Disney has websites for all of the moderates but there are also individual “FAN” sites for all except Fort Wilderness. I’ll give you the sites I’m aware of and let you decide if any or all of them can meet your needs:

  1. Fort Wilderness Resort and Campgrounds: Pitching a tent isn’t the only option here, the resort has a lot to offer. The Official Disney websites enumerate everything that is available and does it quite well. First there is the Fort Wilderness Campsite site and there is a separate site covering the Fort Wilderness Cabins.
  2. Caribbean Beach Resort: This resort is lovely if not a bit spread out. It has a very large fan base that loves the very relaxed atmosphere. The Official Disney Caribbean Beach Resort site does a nice job of giving an overview of the resort. There is also an excellent Resort Fan Site that enhances the information that Disney presents.
  3. Coronado Springs Resort: This resort has a fan base that is growing all the time. It is absolutely beautiful and since it does handle a lot of Disney’s convention traffic (don’t worry, there is very little impact on the vacationing guests) the amenities are a bit more plentiful than some of the other Moderates. The Official Disney site gives an excellent overview of everything at the resort while this Fan site is done by a real fan and has a lot of energy – enjoy the music.
  4. Port Orleans Resort, French Quarter and Riverside: This one is our favorite and all the rooms are going to be completely refurbished this year, the refurb is currently in progress. Disney has 2 Official websites, one for The French Quarter and one for Riverside. The Unofficial Fan site for Port Orleans combines the resorts and does an amazing job. The site maintains up to date information on the room refurb and in general is probably the best hotel fan site I have ever seen.

I hope you, my fellow Oldies, will take a look at some of these resorts and with the $$$ you save perhaps you can visit more often (that’s our strategy). As always, enjoy your visit to Walt Disney World!!

Ken

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Oldies But Goodies - Moderate Resorts, A Very Viable Option For Us

News and Events Coming to Disney Summer of 2011

By
Chip
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News and Events Coming to Disney Summer of 2011

There are so many new things happening at Disney this summer. Check out below for pictures and news from all the events and changes going on at Disney.

More Castaway Cay Fun, Alaska Cruises, Nighttime Shows also on Schedule

Talk about making vacation memories: In summer 2011, guests at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort will begin embarking on adventures to places no one has ever gone — to the planets Coruscant and Tatooine, located in a galaxy as far away as imagination can carry you.

Or how about this: Vacationers on a Disney Dream cruise can embark on itineraries during which they get to bask in the fun and sun of Disney Cruise Line’s most popular port of call not once but twice. Or this: Disney Wonder cruise guests can venture to the “Land of the Midnight Sun.”

And back in the Magic Kingdom and Disneyland Park, guests can revel in the memories they’ve made, during a new nighttime show, “The Magic, The Memories, and You!”

Here are some of the details about what’s in store:

News and Events Coming to Disney Summer of 2011

Star Tours launches new itineraries … and more

From the time Star Tours debuted at Disneyland Park in 1987 and at Walt Disney World Resort in 1989 until the attraction went dark for “reimagining” in fall 2010, guests embarked on a journey to the Moon of Endor and beyond, with a trainee pilot named REX at the controls of 40-passenger Starspeeder 3000 spacecraft.

Now the Star Tours attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida (scheduled to reopen May 20) and at Disneyland Park in California (scheduled to reopen in June) puts a whole new twist on virtual space travel with Starspeeder 1000 craft — predating the Starspeeder 3000 because the new show depicts an earlier chapter of the Star Wars saga than the original Star Tours did. But fear not: Techno-wizards are equipping passengers on the 1000 with the ability to experience the new adventure in eye-popping 3D — wherever that adventure may take them.

The destination is not necessarily what guests expect — unless they expect the unexpected — as C-3PO, a new pilot (by accident) takes the controls for a journey to the “metropolitan” planet Coruscant (pronounced /’k???s?nt/) or to Tatooine (pronounced tætu’in), an arid planet on the “Outer Rim,” or to some other planet within Star Wars’ mythical universe. Even the outcome of the adventure may change from one “launch” to the next.

News and Events Coming to Disney Summer of 2011

A ‘dream come true’ for fans of Castaway Cay, Alaska

The comments of Disney Cruise Line veteran cruisers make it clear: On itineraries to the Bahamas and Caribbean, a guest favorite is Castaway Cay, the cruise line’s private island. A common remark is that “it would be nice to have more time” at the remote paradise surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters as far as the eye can see.

Between May 29 and August 20, 2011, that vacation wish will be fulfilled on a dozen 5-night Disney Dream sailings out of Port Canaveral, Fla. Each 5-night cruise will include two stops at Castaway Cay separated by a day at sea and a day at Nassau. The new, 4,000-passenger ship will embark on 5-night cruises on Sundays and Tuesdays.

Meanwhile, the Disney Wonder will be repositioned from the Port of Los Angeles to Vancouver, B.C., where it will embark on 7-night Alaska sailings between May 3 and August 30, 2011. The seven-night cruises call on Tracy Arm Fjord, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, and mark the first time ever that Disney Cruise Line will sail to Alaska.

Guests will experience breathtaking natural vistas, an abundance of wildlife and the rich history and customs of Alaska’s native culture. Available Port Adventures include a fun scavenger hunt through the Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp in Skagway that sets the stage for a gold-panning expedition joined by beloved Disney characters, and the Glacier Dog Musher-for-a-Day experience in Juneau during which guests travel by helicopter over the massive Juneau Icefield where they will tour a sled dog camp and explore behind-the-scenes areas including the kennel, living quarters and veterinary clinic. Mushers and their dog teams then take guests out on the snow-capped glacier for an unforgettable sled trip through the pristine wilderness.

A dramatically different experience beckons back in the Bahamas, where 1000-acre Castaway Cay features powdery white sand beaches under foot, swaying palm trees and beautiful tropical flowers, providing the ultimate escape, whether a guest is seeking adventure, relaxation or quality time with the family.

Flying high above the island on a parasail adventure, snorkeling in a 12-acre lagoon, casting off on a fishing tour, building sand castles on the beach, bicycling around the island or swimming with Southern Stingrays are just a few of the activities that every member of the family can enjoy. There are water slides, rental watercraft, and enough other splashing-good fun that Castaway Cay has been depicted as “a water park with an ocean.”

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500.

News and Events Coming to Disney Summer of 2011

Filling the night with memories

“The Magic, The Memories, and You!”, a dramatic new projection show filled with special effects and magic, transforms Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World Resort and “it’s a small world” at Disneyland Resort into shimmering canvases for images of guests and the memories they made that day at Magic Kingdom and Disneyland Park.

In the nighttime spectacle, as many as 500 photos of guests — captured by Disney PhotoPass photographers in the park that day as guests create memories “smiling for the castle” — are projected larger-than-life among the spires and turrets of Cinderella Castle and on the towers and landmark replicas of “it’s a small world.” The show also features video and thousands of additional photos displayed on the iconic buildings by 16 projectors — all accompanied by stirring music and punctuated by fireworks.

The ten-minute experience dazzles park guests in ways never before experienced, themed to beloved Disney stories and with playful animated sequences that seem to defy the architecture of the buildings — and even “bring the architecture to life,” said Alan Bruun, associate creative director, Walt Disney World Entertainment. The spectacle is scheduled most nights with up to two shows per night depending on theme park operating hours and other special ticketed events.

News and Events Coming to Disney Summer of 2011

So what else is new?

At Walt Disney World Resort, a “soft adventure” and three new entertainment experiences also are debuting in 2011 in time for summer vacation:

  • Guests wanting to venture off the beaten path at Disney’s Animal Kingdom have the chance during a new, immersive, add-on experience, Wild Africa Trek, that takes a small group of adventurers on personalized, guided excursions that include a bushwalk through unexplored areas of the forest along with over-landing in customized vehicles across an animal-filled savanna. On these expert-led treks, extended time is spent observing and learning about the wildlife. Reservations for Wild Africa Trek (ages 8 and up) can be arranged by calling 407/939-8687. More information: disneyworld.com/disneyafricatrek.
  • Ever since ‘Playhouse Disney–Live on Stage!’ premiered in 2001, it has been a chance for younger guests to experience Disney Channel friends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. As that circle of TV friends has grown and changed, the Disney entertainment gurus have endeavored to make those new friends part of the vacation fun, too. So here come Jake and the Never Land Pirates as part of Disney Junior–Live on Stage! The show also includes current favorites from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Handy Manny and Little Einsteins. Guests should check their Times Guide for show times.
  • Favorite Pixar pals perform in an all-new Disney’s Hollywood Studios parade, Pixar Pals Countdown to Fun!, showcasing appearances by four characters not previously featured — Remy and Emile from “Ratatouille” and Carl and Russell from “UP.” The parade is performed to a new musical track from the current Pixar parade at Disney California Adventure. The new show replaces “Block Party Bash,” which was presented between March 2008 and January 2011.
  • Guests will be able to take part in an energetic and fun-filled meet-and-play experience with Phineas & Ferb at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (scheduled to begin in May). Phineas and Ferb — from the popular television show of the same name — “know what they’re gonna do today”: they are going to make a movie all about their crazy adventures. With the help of guests and movie director Cletus Filmore, they will recreate some of their favorite moments…unless they are taking a break to meet with their adoring fans, signing autographs and taking pictures. The fun will take place near the exit to Muppet(Vision 3-D.
At Disneyland Resort, a new attraction and a new parade also are debuting this summer:
  • With the premiere of The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure, Disney California Adventure will take guests “under the sea” to experience magnificent scenes and magical songs from the popular motion picture. The attraction represents the next big milestone in the ongoing expansion of the park.
  • At Disneyland Park, Mickey’s Soundsational Parade will stomp, clang and drum its way down Main Street, U.S.A. Musicians, dancers and Disney characters join together in the explosive music festival that will bring to life some of the most beloved melodies from Disney films.

More information about Walt Disney World vacations is available at disneyworld.com, at disneyparks.com/blog, from a travel agent or by calling 407-W-DISNEY. For information on new attractions and vacations at Disneyland Resort, visit disneyland.com, call 866/60-DISNEY or contact local travel agents.

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Fulton’s Crab House At Downtown Disney Features Private Space For Group Events

By
Chip
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Fulton’s Crab House At Downtown Disney Features Private Space For Group Events

Who says planning your next event has to make you crabby? Trust the expert staff aboard Fulton’s Crab House riverboat replica restaurant to flawlessly plan any large group event. Fulton’s Crab House, located scenically and conveniently in Downtown Disney® at Walt Disney World Resort, offers fresh seafood, signature crab dishes and mouth-watering steaks sure to please any and every palate.

Meetings & Professional Events
Specializing in last minute business gatherings as well as social soirees, Fulton’s is a truly unique meeting and group dining location. With a panoramic view lake view from the Third Deck, audio-visual capabilities and space to accommodate up to 200 guests, any breakfast, lunch or dinner meeting is sure to be thoroughly enjoyable and unforgettable.

Banquet Menu options range from $30 to $45 per person with a 20-guest minimum, and cover choices from continental breakfast to lunches featuring fresh market fish dishes, grilled angus burgers and grilled chicken ciabatta (to name a few).

Group Event Information:

•Complete banquet menus – Fresh seasonal seafood, non-seafood and vegetarian items available
•Wine lists available from moderate to connoisseur preferences
•Signed contract and balances due upon booking, if booked within 30 days of event
•Physically challenged accessible
•All prices subject to 6.5% Florida sales tax and 21% taxable service charge
•American Express, Visa, JCB, Master Card, Discover and Diners Club are accepted
•Audio-visual equipment can be contracted for your meeting or presentation needs

Weddings & Rehearsal Package
Fulton’s Crab House is honored to host any intimate rehearsal or wedding lunch when you celebrate your special day aboard the beautiful and classic riverboat with unforgettable panoramic lake views.

When planning with Fulton’s, the dedicated staff assist event organizers in making the experience memorable and flawless down to the very last detail.

For convenience and ease of planning, Fulton’s Crab House offers the perfect wedding or rehearsal package to fulfill every couple’s needs and desires for their special day.

Package includes:
• Up to Three Hour Ceremony and Dining
• Officiate
• Wedding Lunch Menu
Featuring:  Salad, Entrée, and Dessert
• Rehearsal Lunch Menu
Featuring: Appetizer, Salad, Entrée, and Dessert
• 2 Hour Beer, Wine, Soda Package or Champagne Toast
• Complimentary Linens
• Complimentary Votive Candles
• Complimentary Access to Exterior Decking for Ceremony, Beautiful
Views & Photo Opportunities. (No Rental Fee!)
• Personalized Menus for each guest

All-inclusive package rates begin at $2011.00.
•*Package quoted is for 20 adult guests inclusive of tax and service charge.
•Deposits required with signed contract, balances due 7 business days prior to event
•American Express, Visa, JCB, Master Card, Discover and Diners Club are accepted
•Accessible for the physically challenged
•Children’s menu available, as well as vegetarian items upon request

For further information on specific group meeting menus or to start planning the perfect event today please call:
Fulton’s Crab House 407-934-2628

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Toys”R”Us and Disney Create New Collection of Innovative Wood Toys Based on Disney-Pixar Cars

By
Chip
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Toys"R"Us and Disney Create New Collection of Innovative Wood Toys Based on Disney-Pixar Cars

Toys”R”Us, Inc. today announced the launch of its first-ever collection of wood vehicles, track and playsets based on the popular Disney-Pixar movie, Cars. Two years in the making, and now available exclusively at Toys”R”Us® stores around the world and online at Toysrus.com, the Disney-Pixar Cars Wood Collection was created and designed by Toys”R”Us in collaboration with Disney Consumer Products.  The current collection of 15 items consists of a variety of collectible Cars vehicle 2-packs, destination playsets and a track set giving kids a unique way to recreate the storyline from the 2006 blockbuster movie.  The wood line will soon be expanded with vehicles and playsets based on the highly anticipated release of Cars 2, in theaters June 24, 2011.

(See Below for Pictures)

“The Disney-Pixar Cars Wood Collection builds on our long-standing relationship with Disney Consumer Products and our desire to bring new and innovative play experiences to kids and families through quality products,” said Richard Barry, Vice President, General Merchandising Manager, Learning Toys, Electronics and Entertainment, Toys”R”Us, Inc.  “We are excited to introduce this differentiated line of toys that allows kids to race through the world of Cars in a whole new way.”

“Toys”R”Us has shown a commitment to offering a broad selection of high quality toys,” said Chris Heatherly, Vice President of Toys at Disney Consumer Products.  “In developing this wood collection with Toys”R”Us, we were able to capture the unique personality of each cherished movie character and transfer it into premium products that bring the world of Cars to life through classic wood track set play.”

The Cars franchise continues to capture the imaginations of kids year in and year out with compelling products and content, delivering new adventures such as the Cars Toon series of shorts airing on Disney Channel.  The Toys”R”Us Product Development and Merchandising teams worked together with the Disney Consumer Products team to develop a specialty product that offers kids’ favorite characters in real wood with vibrant colors and innovative functionality.  The resulting Disney-Pixar Cars Wood Collection captures amazing details to deliver high play value for kids and striking aesthetics for collectors.

The Disney-Pixar Cars Wood Collection is one of this year’s first Toys”R”Us global exclusives with the full product line available in the U.S., Canada, Japan, Australia, U.K., Spain, Portugal, France, Germany, Austria and Switzerland.  Cars enthusiasts, both young and old, can collect all of their favorite, four-wheeled characters like Lightning McQueen, Mater, Doc Hudson and Sally, and race through an adventure-filled wood world of ramps and tracks down the iconic Route 66 to end up at original Cars destinations, such as Tow Mater‘s Yard or Luigi‘s Casa Della Tires.  Customers can find the distinctive wood vehicles, playsets and track set in the Imaginarium® department of Toys”R”Us stores.

The Disney-Pixar Cars Wood Collection products are priced from $16.99 to $49.99 and include:

Disney–Pixar Cars Wood Collection Vehicle 2-Packs

Kids can collect all of their favorite Cars characters in special 2-pack sets, including favorites like: Radiator Springs Lightning McQueen and Sally; Doc Hudson and Dusty Lightning McQueen; Fillmore and Sarge; Flo and Ramone; Mater and Hudson Hornet Doc; The King and Chick Hicks; Dinoco McQueen and Tex; and Wingo and Boost.  Additionally, the following Disney-Pixar Cars Wood Collection Vehicle 2-Packs will be available exclusively at Toys”R”Us this spring: DJ and Snot Rod; Cruisin’ Lightning McQueen and Ramone; Tractor and Young Tow Mater; Red and Guido.

Luigi’s Casa Della Tires Playset

Little ones can work with Luigi at his Casa Della Tires to make sure the residents of Radiator Springs are ready for their next road trip. While visiting Luigi’s, kids can spin his tower of tires, stop by the air pump for a “fill up,” or crank-up the vehicles onto the mechanic’s ramp for a quick tune-up before launching them onto the track.  This playset includes a Luigi vehicle.

Tow Mater’s Yard Playset

Kids can join Lightning McQueen’s pal, Mater as he pulls and hauls cars into his home base – Tow Mater Towing and Salvage.  From there, kids can use the working crane to grab, lift, swing and drop the vehicles into the fenced-in tow yard or head out into Radiator Springs through the quick-escape ramp that exits through the garage.  This playset includes a Mater vehicle.

Sheriff’s Race ‘n Chase Track Set

Cars fans will be delighted to relive one of the film’s classic scenes – when Lightning McQueen first raced through Radiator Springs frantically searching for Mack with Sheriff hot on his bumper!  Kids can race through the set, knock down a row of cones and topple a tower of Luigi’s tires.  This set includes a special edition metallic Lightning McQueen vehicle, a Sheriff vehicle, a Radiator Springs billboard sign for Sheriff to hide behind, a race ‘n chase ramp, interchangeable track pieces and four tires.

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Toys"R"Us and Disney Create New Collection of Innovative Wood Toys Based on Disney-Pixar Cars

Main Street Maze

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

Main Street Maze

Disneyland has been repaving Main Street, which means lots of walls are up one day and down a few days later. These walls aren’t exactly pleasing to the eye, but would you rather see a hole in the ground or the wall? Aside from the eyesore problem, they’re somewhat tough to navigate around, especially when the park is closing or the mad rush of people leave right after the fireworks.

Disneyland’s got to do what they’ve got to do to keep up park maintenance. I give them props for truly caring about the park’s appearance. (Disneyland is known for their high appearance and grooming standards.) I don’t think anyone wants to see Main Street full of cracks and missing chunks of asphalt. I just wish it didn’t create a tough exit.

The new paved areas do look nicer, though…

Main Street Maze

Main Street Maze

Main Street Maze

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Main Street Maze

Coming to Bluray: Tales from Earthsea

By
Chip
-

Coming to Bluray: Tales from Earthsea

From Disney and Studio Ghibli comes the epic animated adventure Tales From Earthsea, directed by Goro Miyazaki, and featuring the voices of Timothy Dalton, Willem Dafoe, Cheech Marin, and Mariska Hargitay.

Based on the classic “Earthsea” fantasy book series by Ursula Le Guin, Tales from Earthsea is set in a mythical world filled with magic and bewitchment. Journey with Lord Archmage Sparrowhawk, a master wizard, and Arren, a troubled young prince, on a tale of redemption and self-discovery as they search for the force behind a mysterious imbalance in the land of Earthsea; crops are dwindling,dragons have reappeared, and humanity is giving way to chaos.

Featuring a timeless story and magnificent hand-drawn animation, Tales From Earthsea is must-have DVD for every film enthusiast’s collection.

Coming to Bluray March 8, 2011

Rating: US-PG-13; Canada-PG

Suggested Retail Pricing: 1-Disc DVD = $29.99 U.S./$35.99 Canada

Bonus Features:

  • Behind the Studio
  • Enter The Lands
  • Studio Ghibli Trivia Challenge

Cast:

  • Timothy Dalton (Toy Story 3, The Tourist, The Informant)
  • Willem Dafoe (John Carter of Mars, Fantastic Mr. Fox, Spider Man)
  • Cheech Marin (Cars, Beverly Hills Chihuahua, Spy Kids)
  • Mariska Hargitay (TV’s Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Law & Order)

Director:

  • Goro Miyazaki (directorial debut)

Producers:

  • Toshio Suzuki (Howl’s Moving Castle, Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke)
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Coming to Bluray: Nausicaä Of The Valley Of The Wind

By
Chip
-

Coming to Bluray: Nausicaä Of The Valley Of The Wind

For the first time ever, the magic of Blu-ray™ high definition reveals the exquisite details in Hayao Miyazaki’s epic masterpiece, Nausicaä Of The Valley Of The Wind. Experience the film that launched the Academy Award–winning career (2002 for best animated feature, Spirited Away) of one of the most celebrated filmmakers in the history of animation.

After a global war, the seaside kingdom known as the Valley Of The Wind remains one of the last strongholds on Earth untouched by a poisonous jungle and the powerful insects that guard it. Led by the courageous Princess Nausicaä, the people of the Valley engage in an epic struggle to restore the bond between humanity and Earth.

Like Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away and Ponyo, Nausicaä Of The Valley Of The Wind will dazzle your senses with its intricately imagined storytelling and stunning animation.

Coming to Bluray March 8, 2011

Suggested Retail Pricing: 2-Disc  Blu-ray Combo Pack (BD+DVD) = $39.99 U.S./$44.99 Canada

Features:

  • Behind the Studio
  • Enter the Lands
  • Studio Ghibli Trivia Challenge
  • Original Japanese storyboards
  • Behind the Microphone
  • The Birth Story of Studio Ghibli
  • Original TV trailers

Cast:

Director:

Producers:

  • Michio Kondô (Nausiacaä and the Valley of the Wind)
  • Isao Takahata (Castle in the Sky, Nausiacaä and the Valley of the Wind)
  • Yasuyoshi Tokuma (Spirited Away, Pulse, Ritual)
Coming to Bluray: Nausicaä Of The Valley Of The Wind
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