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Disneynature’s AFRICAN CATS Opens Earth Day 2011

By
Chip
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Disneynature's AFRICAN CATS Opens Earth Day 2011

With Earth Day just one month away, Disneynature’s AFRICAN CATS, which will be released on Earth Day 2011, is hosting an initiative similar to last year’s “See OCEANS, Save Ocean” initiative for Disneynature’s OCEANS. This year Disneynature will be making a donation to The African Wildlife Foundation to help save the Savanna in honor of every guest who sees AFRICAN CATS during its opening week (April 22-28,2011) in a program being called “See AFRICAN CATS, Save the Savanna.” The details of “See AFRICAN CATS, Save the Savanna” can be found on The African Wildlife Foundation’s website: http://www.awf.org/content/solution/detail/4506/.

Additionally, it was announced recently that actor Samuel L. Jackson, will narrate Disneynature’s AFRICAN CATS, a powerful film that unfolds on Earth Day – April 22, 2011 – giving moviegoers an unprecedented look into the African Savanna.

Here is the official synopsis:

An epic true story set against the backdrop of one of the wildest places on Earth, “African Cats” captures the real-life love, humor and determination of the majestic kings of the savanna.  Narrated by Oscar®-nominated actor Samuel L. Jackson, the story features Mara, an endearing lion cub who strives to grow up with her mother’s strength, spirit and wisdom; Sita, a fearless cheetah and single mother of five mischievous newborns; and Fang, a proud leader of the pride who must defend his family from a rival lion and his sons.  Disneynature brings “The Lion King” to life on the big screen in this True Life Adventure directed by Keith Scholey and Alastair Fothergill (“Earth”).  An awe-inspiring adventure blending family bonds with the power and cunning of the wild, “African Cats” leaps into theatres on Earth Day, April 22, 2011.

Notes:

  • “African Cats” is the third release for Disneynature, the first new Disney-branded film label from The Walt Disney Studios in more than 60 years.  Launched in April 2008 to bring the world’s top nature filmmakers together to capture a variety of wildlife subjects and stories, Disneynature was behind both “Earth” and “Oceans.”
  • “Earth,” the first film to premiere domestically under the new label on Earth Day 2009, garnered a record-breaking opening weekend for a nature documentary.  On its opening day, the film also broke the single-day box-office record for a nature documentary.
  • Hitting theaters on April 22, 2010, “Oceans” was the #1 film that day and had the third highest opening weekend box-office gross of all time for a nature film.  “Oceans” is the third highest grossing feature-length nature film in history.
  • Walt Disney was a pioneer in wildlife documentary filmmaking, producing 13 True-Life Adventure motion pictures between 1949 and 1960, including “Seal Island” (1949), “Beaver Valley” (1950), “The Living Desert” (1953) and “Jungle Cat” (1958).  The films earned eight Academy Awards®.
  • Narrator Samuel L. Jackson was nominated for an Academy Award® for his performance in “Pulp Fiction.” His credits include big-screen hits like “Die Hard: With a Vengeance,” “A Time to Kill,” “Stars Wars:  Episode 1 — The Phantom Menace,” “Shaft,” “Changing Lanes,” “Kill Bill: Vol. 2,” “The Incredibles,” “Cleaner,” “Unthinkable” and “Iron Man 2.”

Leaping into theaters on Earth Day, 2011, “African Cats” features the real-life love, humor and determination of the kings of the African savanna: Mara, an endearing lion cub who strives to grow up with her mother’s strength, spirit and wisdom; Sita, a fearless cheetah and single mother of five mischievous newborns; and Fang, a proud leader of the pride who must defend his family from a rival lion.

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Disneynature's AFRICAN CATS Opens Earth Day 2011

Alyson Stoner hangs out with Phineas and Ferb at Epcot

By
Chip
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Alyson Stoner hangs out with Phineas and Ferb at Epcot

Alyson Stoner, star of Disney Channel’s Emmy-Award winning series, “Phineas & Ferb,” shows Phineas and Ferb how to palm a soccer ball at Epcot March 19, 2011, during Disney’s Magic of Healthy Living Weekend at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.  A sports lover, Stoner, joined more than 50 kid essay winners and fellow Disney Channel stars in a weekend filled with  fun challenges, healthful eating and playful activities.

(Diana Zalucky, photographer)

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Alyson Stoner hangs out with Phineas and Ferb at Epcot

Blissful Weddings with a Tropical Flair Await Couples at Aulani – Disney Resort & Spa

By
Chip
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Blissful Weddings with a Tropical Flair Await Couples at Aulani - Disney Resort & Spa

A picturesque setting with island flair awaits couples seeking to exchange vows at the newest Disney Resort — Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa at Ko Olina, Hawai`i, on the island of O`ahu.

With seamless service, world-class amenities, and the unparalleled imagination guests have come to expect from Disney, Aulani is the perfect place to start your happily-ever-after. With Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons, guests can enjoy a one-stop-shopping experience and relax knowing that every detail from photography to floral will be their fairy tale wish come true.

Unforgettable ceremonies with a dash of island romance will unfold at Makaloa Garden, a secluded, flora-filled outdoor location with a view of the Pacific. Idyllic receptions reflect the wonders of Hawaiian culture with music, food and traditional floral in outdoor pavilions or lush garden settings.

For couples looking to start their happily-ever-after, Aulani offers the perfect backdrop for the honeymoon of a lifetime. Adventurous couples can hike Diamond Head, set sail on a romantic catamaran, or snorkel in the only saltwater lagoon in Hawai`i. They can indulge at Ulana, a Disney Spa with relaxing mineral pools and authentic treatments inspired by the elements of the island.

Couples can bask in the beauty of Hawai`i by booking as early as March 2011 for fall 2011 nuptials. Weddings are custom designed to meet the needs and budget of the couple. Pricing is comparable to the current Wishes Collection. For more information, visit disneyweddings.com or call 321/939-4610.

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Blissful Weddings with a Tropical Flair Await Couples at Aulani - Disney Resort & Spa

Couples Cruise to a Happily-Ever-After with Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons on Disney Cruise Line

By
Chip
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Couples Cruise to a Happily-Ever-After with Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons on Disney Cruise Line

With the help of Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons, couples can set sail on the voyage of a lifetime aboard Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Disney Dream. The ultimate romantic Disney Cruise Line adventure awaits couples looking for the perfect venue to tie the knot or honeymoon.

Couples can exchange vows onboard the ship in Outlook, a sophisticated private party space, or step ashore for a romantic beach-side ceremony on Disney’s private island paradise, Castaway Cay. A Disney Wedding Planner takes care of all the details as couples step into their very own happily-ever-after.

With irresistible onboard elegance, invigorating onshore destinations and dreamy tropical breezes, a Disney Cruise Line honeymoon is the perfect romantic getaway. From savory meals at Palo to stimulating treatments at Senses Spa, a Disney couples’ cruise is a romantic dream-come-true.

For the ultimate in relaxation on Castaway Cay, newlyweds can enjoy a therapeutic massage at one of the nearby cabanas overlooking the ocean. And there is no need to head back to the main beach for refreshment — a delectable lunch buffet, Bahamian specialty drinks, beer and mixed drinks are served at the nearby Castaway Air Bar.

With Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons, couples can combine matrimony with a tropical adventure — and enjoy the world-class services of Disney Cruise Line. Land/sea vacation packages that include a stay at Walt Disney World Resort provide the ultimate Disney vacation experience.

Weddings begin at $3,500, plus cruise costs. For more information, visit disneyweddings.com.

 


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Couples Cruise to a Happily-Ever-After with Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons on Disney Cruise Line

Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings Celebrates Milestone of ‘Happily-Ever-Afters’ at Walt Disney World Resort

By
Chip
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Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings Celebrates Milestone of ‘Happily-Ever-Afters’ at Walt Disney World Resort

To mark the 20th anniversary of Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons, Disney has announced special wedding packages plus a unique campaign showcasing the happily-ever-after stories of real life couples who have tied the knot at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland and aboard Disney Cruise Line.

“The ‘Bringing the Fairy Tale to Life’ campaign is a tribute to all the brides and grooms who have shared their special day with us,” said Korri McFann, Worldwide Marketing Director of Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons. “We are honored to have our guests recall cherished memories during Disney’s ‘Let the Memories Begin’ campaign, where Disney is sharing real home videos and photos submitted by guests.”

Couples will be highlighted in print and online advertisements as well as at Behindthefairytale.com.

In honor of the platinum year, Disney has also created a specially priced wedding package perfect for vow renewals: the Memories Collection. Throughout the 20-month celebration, couples are invited to create new memories through intimate ceremonies at Walt Disney World Resort. The Memories Collection includes up to six guests, including the couple, a floral bouquet for the bride, solo violinist, transportation (three-hour limousine charter) and a professional photographer for one hour.

Ceremony locations include: Conch Key Marina at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Narcoossee’s Landing at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and Luau Beach at Disney’s Polynesian Resort.

Disney has been making memories come true for couples and their families for two decades with a variety of wedding offerings. Traditionally recognized as a top-ranked wedding and honeymoon destination, Walt Disney World Resort currently hosts more than 1,000 couples tying the knot each year. Beyond Disney’s Wedding Pavilion, nuptials at Walt Disney World Resort also take place in outdoor garden settings, gazebos and courtyards, as well as indoor resort locations. All told, more than 40,000 couples have married at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland and aboard Disney Cruise Line.

To celebrate 20 years of happily-ever-afters, Disney has partnered with Alfred Angelo to create a Platinum Anniversary wedding gown so that brides everywhere may be a part of the celebration.

The Memories Collection is priced at $1,991 in honor of the 1991 opening year of Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons, and will take place on Saturdays and Sundays at 9 and 11 a.m. and 1 and 3 p.m. More information: DisneyWeddings.com or 321/939-4610.

Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings Celebrates Milestone of ‘Happily-Ever-Afters’ at Walt Disney World Resort

Chip & Company Disney Week in Review for March 21st

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

Chip & Company Disney Week in Review for March 21st

Welcome to the Chip and Company DisneyWeek In Review. There is a lot of news this week!  Additionally, all of our outstanding writers have been sharing their views, so we’ll touch on a few of those at the end of our segment.  But let’s get on to the news!

  • The first thing on the minds of all of the Chip & Company writers, and likely the entire Disney family, is the devastating earthquake and tsunami that occurred in Japan.  Here is an update on what is being done for those in need.  Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to those affected.
  • Did you hear about Jack Black sending a High School band to Disneyland, on his tab?  Our writer Jenn did, and you can read all about it here!  By the way, thanks Jenn for choosing one of my photos for your story!  I was so excited when I saw it there!
  • In another sad news event, Disney lost one of it’s own when cast member Russell Sherry Roscoe passed away after being hurt in an accident on the Primeval Whirl, which was closed for refurbishment at the time.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to Russell’s family, and the entire Disney family for their loss.
  • In the “What’s on TV” category, Chip tells us about the new ABC Family Summer Lineup.  Take a look, and see if there is something that you want to see this summer!
  • If you have little people in your house, then you probably already know about Disney Junior!  But did you hear about the guest stars that are going to be on “Special Agent Oso“?  If not, go take a look, because there are some BIG NAMES!
  • Disney is going to give away a special screening of their upcoming movie “Prom” in April.  The contest closed on March 15th, so I hope you entered if you were interested!  Good luck!
  • Do you have an iPad?  If so, take a look at the Disney Family Fun app that was developed for the iPad!  As they say, “There’s an app for that!”
  • Did you hear about “Newsies” hitting the stage in September?  If not, you can read about it here!
  • The things that Blu-Ray can do.  It seems that the list keeps getting longer and longer, and now, there’s Disney’s Second Screen!

Now how about some views?  This week we had a special segment, “The Magic behind the ‘Company’ – Getting to know” series.  If you haven’t been able to read about our writers, please take the time.  You’ll be able to get more insight on what makes us such Disney fanatics!

  • Melissa wrote a great piece on the Hollywood Brown Derby over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.  I hope you enjoy the article, and the food!
  • My friend Ken wrote a great piece in continuing his “Best Things I Love About Disney” series — The Pirates of the Caribbean!
  • Lastly, Brenda continues her series “Wednesday with Walt” by taking a look at Fantasia in her piece, Music in Motion.

I hope that you have enjoyed this week’s recap of the news and views around Disney as seen through the eyes of Chip & Company!  As always, please feel free to comment on what you see here, we love to hear what you have to say!  Until next week, remember what my friend Ken always says, “Enjoy your visit to Walt Disney World!”

Chip & Company Disney Week in Review for March 21st

Videos: Disney’s Prom Movie coming April 29th

By
Chip
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Videos: Disney's Prom Movie coming April 29th

At “Prom,” every couple has a story and no two are exactly alike. Several intersecting stories unfold at one high school as the big dance approaches; “Prom” portrays the precarious passage from high school to independence as some relationships unravel and others ignite.

For Nova Prescott (Aimee Teegarden), it’s a battle of wills as she finds herself drawn to the guy (Thomas McDonell) who gets in the way of her perfect prom. Fellow seniors Mei (Yin Chang) and Tyler (De’Vaughn Nixon) harbor secrets, while others face all the insecurity and anticipation that surrounds one of high school’s most seminal events. There are hundreds of nights in high school, but there’s only one “Prom.”

Featuring an emerging ensemble cast and a powerful soundtrack, “Prom” hits theaters April 29, 2011.

Videos: Disney's Prom Movie coming April 29th

D23’s Great Scavenger Hunt Details at Walt Disney World

By
Chip
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D23's Great Scavenger Hunt Details at Walt Disney World

The Hunt is on… Again!

Get ready to explore the World as D23 hosts the Great Disney Scavenger Hunt at the Walt Disney World Resort! Teams will take off across all four of the Resort’s signature theme parks in search of answers to some challenging — but fun! — questions. Think you know everything there is to know about Walt Disney World? This will be the ultimate test as you and your team race against the clock to gather as many points as possible. The top 10 teams will win fantastic prizes, including goodies and collectibles from our friends at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, Adventures by Disney, Walt Disney Records, the Walt Disney Collectors Society, Walt Disney Publishing and the Walt Disney Archives.

Because the resort is so big, we’ve made this hunt a two-day affair! Your team will have the chance to answer our quizzical queries inside the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Because we have a whole World to cover, the rules and registration will be different from the D23 hunt that took place at Disneyland last year. So please read all the rules below very carefully. Comfortable shoes and attire are recommended!

Once we’re done tallying the totals, we’ll announce the winners — and the top teams can collect their bounties! Think you’re up to the challenge? We can’t wait to find out!

If you wish to request sign language interpreting services for this event, please submit your request to [email protected] at least two weeks prior to the event date.

DATES
May 12-13 

LOCATION
Walt Disney World Resort
Orlando, Florida

TICKETS
Click here for tickets.

COST
$60 per team for D23 Members (up to four people); $85 per team for non-members (up to four people).

SCHEDULE
Check in for the Hunt begins Thursday, May 12 at 10 a.m. at your assigned park. Your assigned park will appear in your confirmation email.

Rules:

  • Park admission for the Hunt is NOT included. Teams are responsible for their own entry into the parks. Special convention-rate tickets are available for purchase here.
  • The Hunt will take place in all the Walt Disney World Resort theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
  • The person who registers his or her team for the Hunt will be considered by D23 to be the Team Leader.
  • Only the Team Leader (purchaser) needs to be a D23 Member to receive the D23 Member team price.
  • Upon registration, you will be asked for your Team Name (so think of it before you register!).
  • Your Hunt confirmation will let you know at which park your team will start the hunt, so read it carefully. We will be launching the hunt at the same time at all four theme parks, so it is important you show up at the correct park.
  • Day One of the hunt will begin at 10 a.m. You should show up to your assigned park with your entire team to check in.
  • The Team Leader will be responsible for checking the team in. The entire team does not need to stand in line. However, the entire team must be present at the start of the Hunt in order to participate.
  • Inside the registration packet will be credentials with your team number. ALL team members must wear their credentials at all times.
  • At each park you will receive a booklet of questions. This booklet must be turned in completely intact when you exit that park to head to your next park. (For example, as you leave the Magic Kingdom, you must turn in your Magic Kingdom question book. If you forget to turn in your book, answers in that book will not count to your final score.)
  • Every team will receive three hours in each park — except for Epcot, where teams will be allotted four hours — to complete as many questions as possible.
  • Each team is responsible for their own travel to, from and between parks. All regularly operating Walt Disney World transportation will be available to you (busses, boats and, of course, monorails). If you choose to drive between parks then you will be responsible for any parking charges incurred. Resort hotel parking will not be available for Hunt participants (unless you’re staying at that resort).
  • While registration begins at 10 a.m. on the first day, your hunt does not actually begin until you have completed registration. Your start time will be marked on the cover of your question book. So, if you do not finish registering until 10:30 a.m., that will be your official start time, and you will have three complete hours starting at 10:30 a.m. (or four at Epcot) to hunt. So please do not worry if you do not begin hunting right at 10 a.m.
  • After you have completed your first park, your team may then go to any other park you choose. (However, you must start the hunt at your assigned park.)
  • While we recommend you only visit two parks per day, you may hit as many parks as you like either day.
  • Your team has one shot at the questions at each park. Once you have turned in your question book for that park, it will not be returned to you.
  • All question books must be turned in by 9 p.m. on Day One at their respective parks. Points will be deducted for late returns.
  • Day Two will begin at 9 a.m. Your team may start at whichever park you choose.
  • Day Two will end at 5 p.m. All question books must be turned in by 5 p.m. at their respective parks. Points will be deducted for late returns.
  • Team members must be together at ALL times. (In the case of bathroom breaks, team members may wait outside the restroom.)
  • No running at any point. Any team seen running by D23 Scavenger Hunt representatives or Walt Disney World Security may be disqualified.
  • No cheating, obviously.
  • No impeding the success of other teams (e.g., trying to cover or remove answers to clues).
  • Teams must work on their own; Teams may not join forces with other teams to accomplish the hunt.
  • No asking Disney cast members for help.
  • D23 Scavenger Hunt representatives at the Resort may, at any time, check a team to make sure it has the appropriate number of members. Teams that do not remain together will be disqualified with no appeals.
  • If there is a participant on a team who is not able to ride an attraction for heath/physical reasons, that team member may wait by the exit of the attraction for the rest of the team. The team member may not leave the attraction area or pursue other answers to clues without the rest of their team present.
  • Any questions or issues will be decided by a panel of D23 judges at the Hunt. These decisions will be binding and final.
  • All written answers must be legible. No points will be awarded if judges are not able to read the answer.
  • All question books must be returned intact. Any teams turning in a ripped or torn book will be disqualified.
  • Winners will be announced at 8:30 p.m. on Friday, May 13 inside the Fantasia Ballroom of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The winning teams need not be present to claim their prizes.
  • In the event of a tie, there will be a lightning round of Disney trivia questions between one representative from each of the tying teams. The round will be overseen by one of the D23 judges. All decisions are binding and final.
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D23's Great Scavenger Hunt Details at Walt Disney World

New Limited Edition Cinderella Platinum Anniversary Bridal Gown Unveiled From Disney Fairy Tale Weddings By Alfred Angelo

By
Chip
-

New Limited Edition Cinderella Platinum Anniversary Bridal Gown Unveiled From Disney Fairy Tale Weddings By Alfred Angelo

Alfred Angelo and Disney Consumer Products unveiled the Cinderella Platinum wedding gown at Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons 20th Anniversary event to a select group of Disney and wedding industry bloggers today. Both bloggers and brides will get the first view of the dress which is expected to be available in select Alfred Angelo Bridal Signature stores and independent retailers around the globe in late Summer 2011.

The Cinderella Platinum gown is the first addition to the celebrated collection of seven Disney Princess-inspired wedding gowns that launched in January 2011.

Commenting on his design inspiration, Alfred Angelo Designer Michael Shettel says, “This Anniversary special edition is a retro remix with a multitude of asymmetric tulle layers paired with a head-turning bejeweled bodice. This special gown celebrates the fairy tale that inspired it, but incorporates nostalgic and modern elements that span the 20 years of Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons. This Cinderella gown is sure to catch the eye of a prince.” Shettel adds, “in this gown, brides should be prepared to celebrate long after midnight!”

“It seemed only fitting to pay tribute to this major milestone for Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons with a spectacular gown inspired by Cinderella and unveiled in view of her castle in Disney World,” said Robert Oberschelp, Director Disney Collections. “Look for Disney Consumer Products and Alfred Angelo to unveil more special edition wedding gowns in the future.”

The Cinderella Platinum gown will also be presented to brides and their bridal parties at a one-day pop-up shop at Walt Disney World Resort’s Bridal Showcase event on Saturday, March 19. These lucky brides will be able to try on and purchase all styles in the Disney Fairy Tale Weddings by Alfred Angelo collection, including the Cinderella Platinum gown.

For more information please visit: www.alfredangelo.com/Blogger, www.alfredangelo.com/Disney or www.disneybridal.com.

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New Limited Edition Cinderella Platinum Anniversary Bridal Gown Unveiled From Disney Fairy Tale Weddings By Alfred Angelo

Disney, KaBoom! and Community Work Together to Build New Playground and Garden at Orlando Day Nursery

By
Chip
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Disney, KaBoom! and Community Work Together to Build New Playground and Garden at Orlando Day Nursery

More than 200 volunteers from the Parramore community and Walt Disney World Resort came together today to assist KaBOOM! in building a much-needed playground and learning garden at the Orlando Day Nursery (ODN). In less than six hours, the group constructed a safe new play space to serve more than 300 local children as a great place to play and learn about healthy living. The playground build is one of a dozen taking place across the nation this year as part of The Walt Disney Company’s Disney Magic of Healthy Living campaign, which aims to make healthy lifestyles fun for children and families.

“Words cannot express our gratitude to these two amazing organizations, Disney and KaBOOM!,” said Mata Dennis, executive director of Orlando Day Nursery. “We too share their vision of every child growing up healthy through play and good nutrition. We are totally amazed that this many volunteers would give of their time to help ODN and our children. It is truly magical.”

Youngsters at Orlando Day Nursery had a hand in designing the 2,000 square-foot playground, which includes features such as a Circular Tube Slide, a Space Roof, a Buzzthru Panel, a Chime Panel, an Art Panel and much more. Hard-working volunteers moved more than 42,120 square feet of safety surfacing – enough to cover nearly 10 NBA-sized basketball courts. Volunteers also mixed 10,000 pounds of concrete by hand.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, play is important to healthy brain development and allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive and emotional strength. The new play space will also include a vegetable garden so that children can grow healthy food and get hands-on learning about nutrition.

Disney is championing the well-being of kids and families, contributing more than $1 million in 2011 to help KaBOOM! build playgrounds and learning gardens in 12 communities across the U.S. Leslie Goodman, senior vice president of Disney’s Corporate Citizenship team, says the KaBOOM! playgrounds play a pivotal role in Disney’s support of healthy lifestyles for kids and families.   “We want to see everyone thrive by staying active and making healthy food choices. When it comes to partnering with parents and inspiring kids, our commitment is both local and global,” said Goodman. The playground build is a prelude to the first-ever Disney Magic of Healthy Living-The Weekend, which takes place at Walt Disney World Resort from March 18-20. The event is part of an overall Disney initiative designed to make healthy lifestyles fun for children and families. Fifty kids will be celebrated for their winning essays on living a healthier life and invited to explore a new world full of flavor and fun. Weekend activities include a one-of-a-kind “TRYathlon,” a course ‘around the world’ where kids try new foods and new moves that lead to a healthy lifestyle. Disney Channel stars and Disney characters will also join in the festivities.

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Disney, KaBoom! and Community Work Together to Build New Playground and Garden at Orlando Day Nursery

Disney Cast Members Share their “ImagiNations”

By
Chip
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Disney Cast Members Share their “ImagiNations”

It’s a creative competition like no other and the challenges are uniquely Disney. The stakes are high for Walt Disney Imagineering’s annual ImagiNations Design Competition but the rewards can make career dreams come true.

“Ever since I was a child, I wanted to be an Imagineer,” said Erissa Wood describing her desire to work at Walt Disney Imagineering. “The ImagiNations Design Competition allowed me to achieve this goal.”

Now a member of WDI, Wood, joined by fellow ImagiNations finalists, Allie Fishman, Adam Ressa, Laura Whitbeck and Bill Wroe, recently spoke with  Disney College Program and professional interns about their experiences as former competitors.

Established nearly 20 years ago, the ImagiNations Design Competition seeks to expand diversity and cultivate the next generation of Walt Disney Imagineers by challenging teams of college and graduate students to develop their own innovative Disney experience. While many submit projects, only six finalist teams earn an all-expense paid trip to California, where they will tour WDI’s headquarters, present their project to Disney executives, compete for cash prizes and interview for paid Imagineering internships.  Last year’s ImagiNations program produced 25 percent of all WDI interns. Finalists also received professional internships in other departments throughout the Disney Company.

“ImagiNations is about finding creative students with a natural ability for integrating innovative ideas and developing that talent to become future Imagineers,” said Chris Trout, Walt Disney Imagineering vice president of human resources. “The competition allows contestants to showcase skills and ideas which will resonate with our guests and possibly launch their careers within The Walt Disney Company.”

The panel of former finalists enthusiastically addressed the prospective participants about the contest, WDI culture and their entries. “Imagineering focuses on immersive storytelling to really engage our guests,” said Wood. “ImagiNations gives you the unique opportunity to showcase your skills at blending storytelling, innovation and creativity to create a stellar experience.”

The three finalists from 2010 presented portions of their elaborate submissions to the audience. Fishman and Whitbeck created an interactive all-inclusive resort, which centered on famous Disney maritime characters, while Ressa’s group designed a ride that transplanted guests onto the Axiom space hub from Disney-Pixar’s Wall-E.

Fishman, Ressa, and Whitbeck also shared the opportunities they received through ImagiNations to further develop their talent.  All three earned professional internships with Fishman and Ressa joining WDI in Show Design and Props, respectively, and Whitbeck interning with Walt Disney World’s safety team.

Wroe and Wood, both 1994 finalists, praised the gateway offered by ImagiNations into multiple disciplines throughout the company. Wroe built on relationships formed through ImagiNations to engage in various roles within Disney, leading him to his current position as a sales tour guide with Disney Vacation Club.

“Disney truly cares about its employees, allowing us to grow professionally, find our niche, and move forward in the company,” he said.  “In Disney, if you have passion there is no limit for where you can go.”

Disney Cast Members Share their “ImagiNations”

The Magic Behind the ‘Company’ – Getting to know Michele

By
Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends
-

The Magic Behind the 'Company' - Getting to know Michele
Name: Michele Dakho

Where do you live: Detroit Metro Area, Michigan

How long have you been with Chip and Company: A few months

What topics do you write about: Planning, travel agents, special events, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, Disneyland…basically anything and everything!

Favorite C&C Writer: Gee, I feel obligated to say Chip-the-pot-stirrer since he’s the one who asked this question!

Do you have a Blog or Website? http://web.me.com/meshel/Pixie_Michele/Welcome.html

What do you talk about there? It’s the worlds smallest web page, just general information about me, my travel services a few photos and a place to leave feedback.

Have a Facebook Page or Twitter? facebook or on twitter.

Favorite Disney Website other than Chip and Company? Probably DisneyShopping.com! Or my Disney Travel Agent site, because I enjoy booking vacations!

What % of your clothes and house is decorated with Disney Gear: Not sure about the mathematical percentage, I have my few favorite Disney sweatshirts, t-Shirts, and lots of slippers. My entire office is decorated in Disney, from my vintage Mickey Mouse Phone, to my Oswald the Lucky Rabbit Canvas and we have a ton of Disney family photos on the walls and scrapbooks on the bookshelf. Jac and Gus-Gus salt and pepper shakers….we have a little touch of Disney everywhere!

Chip or Dale: Both. In my mind, they come as a team

About the Parks:

What’s you Favorite Disney Park: I love them all because they are unique in their own way, but I’d have to say the Magic Kingdom because that’s the first Disney park that I remember.

How many Times have you been to the Disney Parks: A lot! My first time was when I was four, we went back when I was 16 and made a minimum of 2 trips a year since then (I’m 27 now).

What’s your First Disney Memory? Riding around in my blue stroller, with my white Mickey Mouse t-shirt on, holding onto my 6” Mickey and Minnie plush (one for each hand of course!)

What is your favorite Ride, Show, and Event: I’ve found that I enjoy the Disneyland rides a lot more, probably because they are all new and exciting. California Screamin’ is awesome, but I enjoy Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Space Mountain, Aerosmith, etc.

Where is your favorite place to get your grub on: Narcooses at the Grand Floridian, Filet with shallot butter instead of the wine sauce, YUM!

What’s your favorite snack: I love the birthday cupcakes they give you at the restaurant, they are phenomenal! And nothing beats a dole whip on a hot day!

faLeast Favorite Disney Ride or Attractions: Stitch’s Great Escape

What’s missing from the Parks: I’m excited to see how the parks continue to develop, but i’ll leave that to the imagineers. I do however think that Disney needs it’s own airline!!!

Which thing do you wish Disney would bring back? ME. Over and over and over again!

What do you bring to the park with you? The camera bag-with obviously our camera, lenses and flash, Tylenol, individually wrapped hand wipes, ponchos and our phones (so we can “check-in” to all our favorite Disney places and I can tell all you lovely people where we are and what we’re doing!)

Do you fly, drive or take a Magic Carpet to the Disney Parks: I wish the Magic Carpet departed from DTW, I’m sure it would be much more fun and affordable than flying; but we fly.

What’s your most and least favorite Disney character and why: I love Minnie Mouse because no one can pull off those yellow shoes like she can, but I’m a big fan of animals; especially animals who sing and dance

Dining Plan, OOP, or Bring Food with you: Dining Plan. We shamelessly indulge in the Deluxe Dining Plan most of the time, we get a character breakfast and a signature dinner and we have no regrets!

To ADR or Not to ADR: ADR! Color coded complete in a chart with confirmation numbers. I’m a travel agent, I can’t help it. And we take food very seriously!

Events at the park that cost extra good idea or should be included with park admission: We are Premium Annual Passholders and I wish the parties were included, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, etc.

When is your next trip to WDW or DL: We are trying to go to Disneyland in April, and our annual family trip to WDW is in July

Everything Else Disney:
What is your favorite Disney Movie: I like them all! I love all the Pixar movies, I think they are brilliant and I love the Disney Classics like Cinderella.

Do you do any Disney Collections: I collect the little plush Minnie and Mickey Mouse’s. I have the Halloween, Disney Cruise Line, the Celebration, the Thanksgiving, Christmas…and I’m sure I’m missing some….they are on my shelves in my office.

Have you been on a Disney Cruise or Adventures by Disney: Disney Cruise Line is my new obsession, please just drop me at Castaway Cay and leave me there. FOREVER. I’m dying to try Adventures by Disney; and actually am working on a series of articles about it; I’m living vicariously through others until I can experience it for myself.

Ever been to DLRP or TDL: Not yet, but if anyone would like to send me I’ll mail postcards and write an article about it when I get back!

Finally what does Disney Mean to you: Disney means cherished memories. It truly is a place my family and my husband’s family have cherished since the beginning. We were engaged at Cinderella’s Castle, my step-son lost his first tooth at the fire station, we celebrated my Mom’s 50th birthday, my 16th and 25th birthday, our honeymoon, anniversary and countless other memorable trips there. Every trip has it’s own wonderful memories and we experience something new every single time. When we are at Disney the rest of the world melts away and the only world that matters is the one we’re in….Disney World!

The Magic Behind the 'Company' - Getting to know Michele
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