Former Chairman of Walt Disney Attractions Disney Legend Dick Nunis Passes Away at 91

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December 14, 2023

Former-Chairman-of-Walt-Disney-Attraction-Disney-Legend-Dick-Nunis-Passes-Away-at-91

Former Chairman of Walt Disney Attractions Disney Legend Dick Nunis Passes Away at 91

Disney Legend Dick Nunis, Architect of Disney Magic, Passes Away at 91

In a poignant moment for the Disney family, Dick Nunis, a revered Disney Legend and former chairman of Walt Disney Attractions, bid farewell on December 13, surrounded by his family in Orlando, his cherished adopted hometown. At the age of 91, Nunis leaves behind a legacy etched in the very foundations of Disney’s magical empire.

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“Today, we mourn the passing of Dick Nunis, a true Disney Legend whose contributions to The Walt Disney Company have touched the lives of millions of people all over the world,” said Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company. “What started as a summer job training future Disneyland employees would ultimately become a storied 44-year career at Disney. Dick took the values and philosophies he learned directly from Walt and incorporated them into everything he did at Disney. We are grateful for his many achievements and we extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones.”

“On behalf of every Cast Member, Crew Member, Imagineer and employee of Disney Experiences, I want to express my gratitude to Disney Legend Dick Nunis… and my condolences to his family following the sad news of his passing,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences. “Dick’s impact on our theme parks business is everlasting. Along with our founder, Walt Disney, Dick helped shape our business, create happiness for millions of families around the world… and set a standard that an entire industry must now live up to.”

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Nunis embarked on his Disney journey in 1955 at Disneyland, where he set the stage for a remarkable career that would shape the destiny of Walt Disney’s vision for outdoor entertainment. His visionary leadership played a pivotal role in transforming a singular park in Anaheim into the globally renowned theme park and resort business we know today.

A key chapter in Nunis’s legacy is marked by his instrumental role in steering the development of “Project X,” the ambitious initiative that would evolve into the iconic Walt Disney World Resort. Under his guidance, Disney theme parks achieved significant milestones, and his contributions resonated through the very fabric of their history.

As we bid farewell to a Disney Legend, Dick Nunis’s impact endures in the hearts of those who have reveled in the enchantment of Disney parks worldwide. His vision, dedication, and leadership continue to shape the magic that brings joy to millions, leaving an indelible mark on the legacy of Walt Disney’s dream.

For more on the Nunis’s Remarkable legacy click here.

Breeze Airways Bringing Back ‘Disney World to Disneyland’ Nonstop Flights

By

Sara

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December 13, 2023

Breeze Airways Bringing Back ‘Disney World to Disneyland’ Nonstop Flights

Nonstop flights between Walt Disney World and Disneyland are coming back through Breeze Airways! The nonstop flights between Orlando and Santa Ana were canceled earlier this year but they will be resuming in early 2024.

Breeze Airways introduced direct flights connecting John Wayne Airport (SNA) and Orlando International Airport (MCO), enabling travelers to easily move between Walt Disney World and Disneyland. One-way flights in both directions were available from $69 during the initial launch phase.

The service was put on pause back in September partly due to SNA’s request for airlines to reduce flights. According to Orlando Business Journal the airline will resume direct flights in February 2024.

The reintroduction of these flights offers Disney fans the chance to embark on a cross-country journey, seamlessly exploring both parks within a condensed timeframe on a single vacation. Some visitors have sought to visit all six Disney Parks in the United States in a single day, although interpretations of what constitutes a “visit” may differ. Meanwhile, more ambitious challenges have been undertaken, such as one individual’s plan to traverse all 12 Disney Parks worldwide within just 12 days, aiming to experience every operational ride along the way.

Are you looking forward to taking advantage of direct flights between Orlando and Southern California?

Disneyland Sets Closure Date for ‘Haunted Mansion’ Expansion

By

Sara

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December 13, 2023

Disneyland Sets Closure Date for ‘Haunted Mansion’ Expansion

Haunted Mansion at Disneyland will be closing for a big expansion soon! The refurbishment will include an expansion of the queue area, among other things, and now we know when the ride will be closing.

Disney previously shared that the additions to the attraction will build on the story and lore of the “Haunted Mansion” and include an expanded outdoor queue to immerse guests in enhanced theming. The carriage house will also be upgraded to become a new standalone shop.

Disney also announced plans to enhance the accessibility of the “Haunted Mansion” attraction during its refurbishment. This will involve the addition of a new elevator exit specifically designed for guests with disabilities and mobility challenges.

Currently, the ride is ‘Haunted Mansion Holiday’ for the holiday season. The last day guests can experience that version of the attraction is January 21, 2024. January 22 the ride will close and begin the massive refurbishment. Disney has not shared a reopening date or a timeline for the work being done.

D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will be taking place in Anaheim August 9-11, 2024, so there’s a good chance the refurbishment will be completed by then. Disney will most likely want to have one of the most popular attractions open during that event.

Are you looking forward to seeing the completed Haunted Mansion refurb?

If you’d like to plan your next visit to the Disneyland Resort, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free.

Disney Aulani Mickey and Minnie Ear Headband Now At shopDisney!

By

Ana Leal

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December 13, 2023

Disney Aulani Mickey and Minnie Ear Headband Now At shopDisney!

This adorable Disney Aulani Mickey and Minnie Ear Headband is now available online at shopDisney for $39.99! So no need to go all the way to Hawaii for them, but honestly we wouldn’t mind the trip.

The headband features a tropical print pattern with Mickey & Minnie on each year and the Aulani Resort logo on the back. The bow features teal sequins with red fabric Hawaiian flowers with glitter centers.

Very cute ear headband to add to your collection!

Super Cozy Mickey Mouse Decorative Pillow To Add To Your Home!

By

Ana Leal

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December 13, 2023

Super Cozy Mickey Mouse Decorative Pillow To Add To Your Home!

Must have Mickey Mouse Decorative Pillow created by EnchantingEarsByEmma on Etsy for $35. You can get yours here!

The pillow is Mickey shaped and available in a variety of colors like pinks, blues or neutral colors. They will make a great addition to your couch or bed, plus they are great to cuddle with!

This is a great option as a gift for any Disney fan.

Home Alone Ugly Christmas Sweatshirt For This Holiday Season!

By

Ana Leal

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December 13, 2023

Home Alone Ugly Christmas Sweatshirt For This Holiday Season!

Ok filthy animals, this Home Alone Ugly Christmas Sweatshirt is the one you have been waiting for! You can get yours online at shopDisney for $44.99.

It features the classic christmas sweater pattern with stars, reindeers, wreaths, Christmas trees, the Home Alone house and of course Harry, Marv and Kevin! This movie is a classic every holiday season so of course getting this sweatshirt is a big YES!

Summer House on the Lake in Disney Springs Opening Date Revealed

By

Chip

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December 13, 2023

Summer House on the Lake in Disney Springs Opening Date Revealed

Disney Springs is set to welcome a new culinary hotspot, as the much-anticipated Summer House on the Lake is poised to open its doors on Thursday, December 14, 2023. Food enthusiasts and Disney aficionados alike can indulge in a California-inspired dining experience that promises a menu brimming with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

While reservations are already available on OpenTable, fans will have to hold tight for the ‘My Disney Experience’ app to catch up. The restaurant aims to bring the laid-back vibes and exquisite flavors of California to the heart of Disney Springs, offering guests a taste of the West Coast without leaving the magic of Florida.

The culinary journey at Summer House on the Lake is a celebration of simplicity and sustainability. The menu showcases a range of dishes crafted with care, utilizing ingredients from local grower partnerships. From salads bursting with vibrant produce to hearty sandwiches, delectable pastas, and mouthwatering pizzas, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

One of the standout features is the Rosé Cart, ready to pour refreshing glasses of rosé throughout the day. The beverage menu extends beyond rosé, offering an extensive selection of wines and handcrafted cocktails to complement the diverse culinary offerings.

While reservations can already be secured on OpenTable, the arrival of Summer House on the Lake adds another layer of excitement to the vibrant Disney Springs dining scene. Prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey that captures the essence of California living, bringing a touch of the Golden State to the enchanting world of Disney. Mark your calendars for December 14 and get ready to savor the best of California at Disney Springs’ newest culinary gem.

New Disney Wish Star Sipper Available At Epcot!

By

Ana Leal

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December 13, 2023

New Disney Wish Star Sipper Available At Epcot!

We were able to find the Disney Wish Star Sipper at the Connections Cafe in Epcot for an additional $13.50 when you purchase a beverage of your choice! It’s so adorable, we couldn’t resist getting it.

The sipper is inspired in the magical Star from Disney’s Wish with a “clear” yellow/ orange color and a purple strap to carry it with you everywhere you go.

You can take a closer look at it in our Instagram post:

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A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

Photo Credit: Mary M.

New Disney Pets Dooney And Bourke Collection Spotted At Epcot!

By

Ana Leal

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December 13, 2023

New Disney Pets Dooney And Bourke Collection Spotted At Epcot!

We are obsessed with the new Disney Pets Dooney And Bourke Collection we spotted at Epcot! This is definitely a must have collection in your wardrobe, so cute.

SATCHEL

The satchel bag is a classic! You can’t go wrong with this style, it also features the all over pattern of adorable Disney pets and floral designs against a sand color background plus dark brown details and gold hardware.

CROSSBODY

This crossbody bag is a great size that is also super fashionable to carry all your essentials, it features an all over pattern of beloved Disney pets like Figaro, Marie, Lady, Tramp, Winston, Cheshire Cat, Pluto, Little Brother, Pongo, and Mochi plus colorful flowers.

WALLET

A matching wallet is also available to bring your favorite Disney pets with you everywhere you go!

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A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

Photo Credit: Mary M.

Jonathan Majors Trial Enters Second Week as More Witnesses Testify

By

Marc Valentine

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December 13, 2023

Jonathan Majors Trial Enters Second Week as More Witnesses Testify

The trial for Jonathan Majors’ alleged assault entered its second week this Monday, with additional witnesses taking the stand. Majors’ ex-girlfriend, Grace Jabbari, claims that he assaulted her in the backseat of a car on March 25.

During her testimony last week, Jabbari stated that she discovered a text message on Majors’ phone from another woman expressing a desire to kiss him. When she attempted to investigate, Majors forcefully retrieved the phone, resulting in bruising, swelling, and “excruciating” pain for Jabbari. She suffered a swollen finger and a cut behind her ear as a result.

Following the car incident, Jabbari left the vehicle and encountered three unfamiliar individuals on the street. She shared the details of the altercation with Majors, and they provided comfort and support to her outdoors.

In court on Monday, Chloe Zoller and Max Manning, two of the individuals Jabbari encountered on the street, provided testimony. Zoller mentioned that Jabbari appeared “visibly upset” outside, and initially, she didn’t observe any injuries on Jabbari. Upon entering the club, Zoller recounted that Jabbari later expressed discomfort with her finger. In response, Zoller offered her some ice from a drink bucket on their table to alleviate the pain.

Naveed Sarwar, the chauffeur of the car in which Majors and Jabbari drove, provided testimony with the assistance of an interpreter. He mentioned that the couple appeared “fine” earlier in the day, but things changed when Jabbari saw the text message on Majors’ phone in the evening. Sarwar testified that Jabbari got “angry,” leading to an argument between her and Majors.

Sarwar said, “I was feeling something was going on in the backseat. When I reached Canal and Centre Street, [Majors] wanted to get rid of [Jabbari] and he opened the door…I saw they were fighting when the car stopped. He was trying to get rid of her.”

The prosecution presented video footage from security and traffic cameras, revealing the altercation between Majors and Jabbari, their departure from Sarwar’s car, and Jabbari encountering the three individuals on the street.

Attorney Priya Chaudhry, representing Majors, has claimed that it was Jabbari who assaulted Majors in the vehicle that night, not the other way around. Sarwar testified that he initially thought Jabbari might have struck Majors during their argument in the backseat, but the judge reminded him to only describe what he personally witnessed.

The defense has contended that Jabbari invented the accusations as a means of retaliation against Majors following their breakup. They initially met in August 2021 on the London set of Marvel’s “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” and were in a relationship for two years before Majors terminated it on the night of the purported assault.

Majors is currently facing trial for three misdemeanor counts of assault and harassment, and he has entered a plea of not guilty. If found guilty, he could potentially be sentenced to up to a year in prison. Check back for updates on this trial and its impact on the MCU moving forward.

Disney Brings Animal Enrichment to the Next Level at Disney World

By

Chris B

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December 13, 2023

Animal enrichment is a key focus of the animal care teams at Walt Disney World

As the festive season approaches, Disney’s animal care team has presented a delightful surprise to the western lowland gorilla family troop–specially wrapped Christmas gifts! These aren’t ordinary presents; they’re filled with the gorillas’ favorite treats like oats, popcorn, alfalfa, hay, carrots, and more. Watching these magnificent creatures open their gifts is not just fun but also a crucial part of their enrichment.

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Enrichment plays a vital role in the animals’ lives at Walt Disney World Resort. It’s designed to stimulate their natural behaviors such as foraging, sniffing, climbing, and jumping. This helps keep the animals both physically and mentally healthy. The way they interact with these enrichment activities gives our animal care and behavioral husbandry teams valuable insights into their overall well-being.

Working alongside Walt Disney Imagineering, the animal care team utilizes the latest in 3D printing and motorized mechanics. One such innovation featured in “Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom” is the motorized cheetah ball, allowing cheetahs to engage in natural hunting behavior.

The innovation at Walt Disney World extends well beyond the innovative attractions and immersive nighttime spectaculars to every aspect of the parks, including innovation in animal care. It is this commitment to excellence and Imagineering that allows Disney to care for these animals in such an amazing and inspiring way.

Photo Credit: Aaron Wockenfuss/Walt Disney World

Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!

GoJuice Mobile Has Arrived in Disney Springs West Side

By

Chris B

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December 13, 2023

Disney Springs West Side is now the home of GoJuice Mobile

GoJuice Mobile has expanded its presence in central Florida. The popular mobile juice bar is now a part of the Disney Springs family, setting up shop in the exposition park area of Disney Springs West Side.

GoJuice Mobile is known for its delicious, healthy juices and smoothies. Made from fresh fruits and vegetables, these drinks are tasty and good for you. Whether you’re looking for a quick energy boost or a refreshing treat, GoJuice has something for everyone.

Guests can choose from various juices and smoothies, each packed with natural goodness. It’s a great way to stay energized and hydrated as you explore the magic of Disney Springs. The diverse menu is designed to cater to nearly any taste, with drinks that will appeal to kids looking for a fruity drink and adults seeking a healthful option.

Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!