Radiator Springs Racers is ‘On Track’ to Star at Disney’s Cars Land

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June 26, 2010

Great news from Disney Parks Blog!

“Cars” is one of my all-time favorite films from Pixar and that’s why I’m so excited to give you a peek at the vehicle testing for Radiator Springs Racers. This thrilling new attraction is set to open in 2012 with the debut of Cars Land at Disney California Adventure park. Vehicle testing is an important milestone in the development process and that means we’re one big step closer to racing through this new land. Testing is expected to continue through the end of July, then the car comes off the track while construction is completed.

The bright cars you see here will each carry six guests through the twists and turns of Ornament Valley. Radiator Springs Racers covers a lot of ground – nearly half of the 12 acres in Cars Land! Check out our video and imagine what this high-speed adventure will be like.

Pixar’s Day & Night Short Available on iTunes

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Chip

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June 26, 2010

Pixar’s latest short film Day & Night, playing in theatres with Toy Story 3, is available for purchase from the iTunes Store (U.S. and Canada) today.

It’s only $1.99/$2.29 and is going to be in my playlist. Directed by Teddy Newton, the short runs 6:03.

Playing with Disney’s Lots-O’ Hugging Bear

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Chip

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June 25, 2010

I just purchased Disney’s Lots-O’ Hugging Bear for my little one at Target tonight. I have been waiting for him to come out! He smells so sweet and is really fun to play with. My little one says he is so soft and cuddly.

He is a little pricey at $49.99 but a very unique toy..even comes with a Limited Edition Certificate.

Check out the videos below!

Don’t forget to join my Facebook Page!

Disney Magic Inaugural Call Ceremonies in Northern Europe

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Chip

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June 25, 2010

The Disney Magic cruise ship completed her first Northern European itinerary this week, making seven inaugural calls on ports in England, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Russia, Finland and Sweden. With seven new ports came the opportunity for us to share in the time-honored maritime tradition of Plaque and Key ceremonies.

So you might ask, what’s a Plaque and Key ceremony? During our inaugural calls, this is when the Captain and shipboard officers host port officials and community leaders onboard to exchange maritime plaques during an official welcome reception.

Captain John Barwis, along with Captain Mickey Mouse, did just that, beginning in Dover with the Chairman of the Port of Dover, Roger Mountford. Each plaque is particularly unique and serves to commemorate the date of the first call for a ship. Disney Cruise Line has its own ornately designed plaque, like the one you see in the photo above.

Click here to keep reading this article from Disney Parks Blog.

Productions has Begun in Ireland on Doc McStuffins for Disney Junior

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Chip

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June 25, 2010

Production has begun in Dublin, Ireland, on “Doc McStuffins,” an animated series about six-year-old Dottie “Doc” McStuffins, who communicates with and heals stuffed animals and toys out of her backyard clinic.

This imaginative series, with an emphasis on healthy living, will highlight the importance of taking care of oneself and others. The Academy Award nominated animation studio Brown Bag Films (“Granny O’Grimm,” “Give Up Yer Aul Sins”) will produce the series in association with Disney Channel.

Beginning in 2011, “Doc McStuffins” will premiere on the soon to be branded Disney Junior blocks on Disney Channel, and Disney Junior channels around the world. The announcement was made yesterday by Nancy Kanter, senior vice president, Playhouse Disney Worldwide.

Kanter said: “Helping their kids live a healthy lifestyle is a top priority for parents. ‘Doc McStuffins’ combines every kid’s dream of their toys coming to life with valuable lessons about health and wellness. We are confident that Doc’s relatable warmth and charm will ease young viewers’ natural trepidations about familiar situations, including visiting the doctor, getting shots and taking medicine.”

Doc runs her backyard community clinic with the help of Squeakers, an alarmist squeaky toy fish; Hallie, a jolly hippo receptionist; Stuffy, an overly proud stuffed dragon; and Lambie, Doc’s fashion forward best friend lamb. The kids in Doc’s neighborhood aren’t quite sure how she does it, but they believe in her ability to heal their beloved toys. The series models a strong sense of community and the importance of lending a helping hand, or paw, when people and stuffed animals need it most.

The Hollywood Health & Society division of the USC Annenberg Norman Lear Center will serve as the health and medical consultant for the series, advising on core health issues that are relevant to young kids and families.

Emmy Award-winning writer Chris Nee (“Little Bill”) is creator and executive producer and Emmy Award-winning Norton Virgien (“Rugrats”) is director. “Doc McStuffins” is a production of the Brown Bag Films in association with Disney Channel.

The Happiest Hotel on Earth Tour at Disneyland Hotel

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Chip

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June 25, 2010

If you have a passion for Disney history, then you will definitely want to take the “The Happiest Hotel on Earth” Tour at the Disneyland Hotel.

Did you know that the Dreams Tower (formally named the Sierra Tower) was Orange County’s first high-rise when it opened in 1960? Or that the Disneyland Hotel, built in 1955, was owned by the Wrather Corporation until it was officially acquired by the Walt Disney Company in 1988?

This tour will give you a glimpse of the history and magic of the Disneyland Hotel and how it all began nearly 55 years ago.

If would like more information or want to sign up for this complimentary tour, visit the Guest Services Desk at either hotel.

Sign-ups open for July 1 passholder preview of Captain EO

By

Chip

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June 25, 2010

The exciting news comes to us from Kristin Ford at the Daily Disney:

Walt Disney World passholders can see Captain EO, the classic 3D musical space-adventure film starring Michael Jackson, before its official return to Epcot. Passholder previews are from 3 to 9 p.m. July 1.

To attend, passholders must sign up on the Disney World passholder website and bring a confirmation slip, valid Disney pass and a photo ID to the check-in at Imagination! Pavilion in Epcot. The Captain EO preview is for passholders only.

This 17-minute interactive film features musical numbers written by Michael Jackson and 3D special effects orchestrated by executive producer George Lucas and director Francis Ford Coppola. This time around – thanks to acoustical enhancements – Captain EO returns with a new 70mm print and improved sound.

The official opening for Captain EO is July 2.

At the time of this posting, all reservation slots are available.

Click here for more Daily Disney News.

Nathan Fillion and Eva Longoria To Join The Marvel ranks

By

Chip

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June 25, 2010

Busy Gossip day today! It seems Nathan Fillion and Eva Longoria are being considered to star in Marvel’s Upcoming Flick Antman according to Latino Review. (You might remember Nathan from Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog, or my all time favorite shows Firefly. Eva of course is from Desperate Housewives.)

Nathan would be taking on the role as Dr. Henry Pym, better known as Ant-Man. Longoria is being eyed to take the role of Janet Van Dyne aka The Wasp.

If that is the case we would also see these actors appearing in Marvel other upcoming film The Avengers.

So far no official word has been released but would be AWESOME to see Nathan take the role as Antman! <crosses fingers>

Coming to Disney BluRay Fantasia – Packed with Bonus Features

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Chip

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June 25, 2010

Some fantastic news from Big Picture Sound!

At a press gathering in New York City earlier this week, Disney unveiled plans for some key upcoming Blu-ray titles, including their first Blu-ray 3D Disc, A Christmas Carol. But the news in 2D-land was just as exciting including with first ever high definition releases of two animated classics: Fantasia and Beauty and the Beast.

The Fantasia four-disc boxed set will contain a beautifully restored version of the 1940 classic–scanned at 4K and remixed for 7.1 channels–as well as Fantasia 2000, plus a platter of Blu-ray extras and a DVD copy of the film. Among the many special features will be an interactive edition of the fabled Shultheis Notebook, a priceless animators “bible” compiled over the career of one of Fantasia‘s key creators, and the first-ever home video release of Destino, Walt Disney’s collaboration with Salvador Dali. Destino is backed by its own 70-minute documentary.

Full Story

DisneyWorld Event Calendar “In the Spotlight” – June 25th – July 2nd

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Chip

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June 25, 2010

June 25
Summer Nightastic! “Summer Nightastic!” lights up the after-dark entertainment experience at the Walt Disney World Resort through Aug. 14 with a megawatt parade, fireworks extravaganza, rockin’ dance party, concerts and other surprises. More info: disneyworld.com

At Magic Kingdom, guests can enjoy the return of the “Main Street Electrical Parade,” and see the new “Summer Nightastic! Fireworks Spectacular.”
At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests can experience new effects and a summer-only drop sequence at The Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror, and dance the night away at the “Rock n’ Glow Dance Party,” where a DJ and live rock band keep popular tunes coming every Tuesday and Thursday through Sunday.
At Epcot, the “Sounds Like Summer” tribute-band concert series returns every evening at 5:45, 7 and 8:15 p.m. at the America Gardens Theatre through July 31.
- Today’s act (subject to change): June 25: Hotel California – A Salute to the Eagles
Al Stone (blues): The Blues Kitchen at House of Blues; free; 10:30 p.m.

June 26
Summer Nightastic! continues through Aug. 14…

Today’s “Sounds Like Summer” act: June 26: Hotel California – A Salute to the Eagles
Orlando Rocks! with The Nine Volts, Southside Serenade, Lonesome City Travelers and Damion Suomi (rock): House of Blues; $5; 8 p.m.
Al Stone (blues): The Blues Kitchen at House of Blues; free; 10:30 p.m.

June 27
Summer Nightastic! continues through Aug. 14…

This week’s “Sounds Like Summer” act: June 27: Karin Lawson – A Tribute to Janet Jackson
Brothers Together (gospel brunch): House of Blues; $32.50 ages 10+/$16.25 ages 3-9; 10:30 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Ted Nugent with Val Halla (rock): House of Blues; $23.50 adv/$26.50 day of; 7:30 p.m.
Service Industry Night with DJ Sandy and Ben Ross (dance): House of Blues; $8 ages 21+/$12 ages 19-20; 10:30 p.m.

June 28
Summer Nightastic! continues through Aug. 14…

Today’s “Sounds Like Summer” act: June 28: Karin Lawson – A Tribute to Janet Jackson

June 29
Summer Nightastic! continues through Aug. 14…

Today’s “Sounds Like Summer” act: June 29: Karin Lawson – A Tribute to Janet Jackson

June 30
Summer Nightastic! continues through Aug. 14…

Today’s “Sounds Like Summer” act: June 30: Karin Lawson – A Tribute to Janet Jackson

July 1
Summer Nightastic! continues through Aug. 14…

Today’s “Sounds Like Summer” act: July 1: Karin Lawson – A Tribute to Janet Jackson
Thrice with Kevin Devine and The Dig (rock): House of Blues; $17.25 adv/$21.25 day of; 7:30 p.m.

July 2
OPENING DAY! Captain EO: The classic musical spectacular that thrilled guests from 1986-1994 is returning to Epcot July 2. The attraction’s return provides new audiences the opportunity to experience the original 3-D production for the very first time, as well as a nostalgic look back for longtime fans wanting to see Michael Jackson in a rare performance created for the big screen. “Captain EO” will be presented multiple times daily at the Imagination pavilion at Epcot.
Summer Nightastic! continues through Aug. 14…

Today’s “Sounds Like Summer” act: July 2: Karin Lawson – A Tribute to Janet Jackson
Independencia de Venezuela with Franco Y Oscarcito, Bacanos, Tecupae and Omar Enrique y su Orquesta (latin): House of Blues; $25 adv/$28 day of; 9 p.m.

Disney Food Confession – Watermelon Mist with Recipe

By

Chip

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June 25, 2010

Where is it? All over Walt Disney World.

What is it? A refreshing drink infused with Watermelon flavor.

Why you want it? Almost to pretty to drink. Notice I said ALMOST. A delicious and cool cocktail for a hot summer day.

Photo Credit: by Disney

If you have a Disney Food Confession email [email protected] or let us know on the Disney Food Confessions Facebook page.. He is accepting Food ideas or Photos if you have them!

Watermelon Mist Recipe

1 1/4 ounces water melon schnapps
3/4 ounce Midori
2 ounces cranberry juice
Crushed ice
Watermelon wedge, for garnish
Fresh mint, for garnish

Blend the first 4 ingredients with just enough ice to make a loose slush. Pour into a martini glass and garnish with a wedge of watermelon and fresh mint.

Disneyworld Dining on a Budget Tips & Tricks to Save Money

By

Chip

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June 25, 2010

Not everyone out there can always afford to get the mack daddy Disney Deluxe Dining plan. I can’t tell you how many trips we have taken over the years we we didn’t do any Dining Plan at all. Most times it was when we would rent a vacation home or stay off site with a kitchen.

With our economy just starting to show signs of life again and everyone learning to maximize what they have I have compiled a list of Tips & Tricks I have learned over the years visiting Walt Disney World to save money.

Go while the kids are young – Kids under 3 get in free at Walt Disney World. Most toddlers or infants are not going to eat much at all so they can just share off your plates. Perfect way to save some money especially if you goto a buffet like Boma of Chef Mickey’s.
Pick up snacks – There is a Walmart not far from WDW, actually there are a bunch! Check out the map here. If you add in Publix, Albertsons, Walgreens they are all literally a stone throw away. Take a cab, or drive over and pick up some snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day and eating less at meals.
Water Water Water – Filling up on water will cause you to eat less and in turn save you money at meal times. We have all heard our parents say you going to fill up on that drink before the food even gets here..Well use it to your advantage 🙂 Also when ordering your meals ask for water instead of pop or tea to save some big bucks!
Eats Snacks that are more like a meal – There are plenty of snacks at WDW that are so huge or so filling they are almost a meal. Use those to curb your hunger and save some money.
Freebies – This is not a guarantee but the past couple times we have gone to Main Street Bakery with our toddler she sat there with her face pressed to the glass staring at all the goodies. After a few minutes of this one of the girls in the back was so nice she gave her a little treat on the house. Both times it has been a marshmallow treat but hey its still free right?
Club Cool = Free Drinks – Speaking of freebies..Make sure to check out Club Cool in Epcot. There you can sample pop from around the world free of charge for as long as you like, as often as you like. We have been known to stop off here going into the World Showcase and exiting the Park.
Bring Food in the Parks – This kinda goes hand in hand with heading to the grocery stores. Pack some sandwiches, chips, fruit in a soft cooler and find a nice place to have lunch. When your done eating the soft cooler will fold up for easy storage.
Find Cheaper Eats – Your not going to find coupons to the Disney Restaurants but you may have to pass the Casual Dining Restaurant for a Counter Service option to save some money. Each park has a restaurant that is a really good value here are some of my favorites:
- Animal Kingdom – Flame Tree Barbecue – Good food for sharing, and most meals are under $10
- Epcot – Tangierine Café – Platters are great for sharing and most are under $12
- Hollywood Studios – Starring Rolls Cafe – Most desserts here are so huge they NEED to be shared!
- Magic Kingdom – Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe – Chicken & Ribs Combo is a lot of food for $13

Well I hope this list will help you make the most of your Disney Vacation without breaking the bank. If you have any Tips & Tricks to help Dining on a Budget at Walt Disney World let us know in the comment section.