Main Street Motion is a real Tedt Track, this weekend in the Epcot parking lot.

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Splash Mtn 'splashes' are less wet post-refurb. Both 'big' splashes from the briar patch now fall short of logs or bridge observers.

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Orlando is the National Leader in Fast Food!

We're number one! We're number one!

Apparently Orlando has the most fast food restaurants per 100,000 residents in the country (at 196.3). We have a total of 463 fast food restaurants, with Subway being the most populous.

http://www.thedailybeast.com/blogs-and-stories/2011-02-08/40-fast-food-capitals/?cid=tag:all1

10 Years for DCA

Ten years ago today, I scurried over after work to Disneyland. Wait, scratch that. It was the "Disneyland Resort" for the first time ever, and Disneyland's companion park DCA was open for its inaugural day.

By the time I made it there, it was early evening. The park was, uh, not crowded (it was a Thursday, chosen to avoid the assuredly huge crowds that would come!) The park didn't draw the crowds they expected those first few years.

A lot has changed in those ten years, and even more is in the process of changing. Like many, I felt that DCA took the cheap route in a lot of ways, and the park didn't "feel" like a Disney park. But I also sensed that the basic idea - a park celebrating California - wasn't inherently flawed. The improvements over the years have been beneficial - especially World of Color, Monsters Inc, Flik's Fun Fair, Tower of Terror, and Toy Story Mania. They pale in comparison with Carsland and Little Mermaid. So much has changed, and the park marches forward, as we all knew it would. Happy birthday, DCA.

D23 at WDW in May - Scavenger Hunt and Convention

Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th




Tickets on Sale February 24 at 10 a.m. PST; 1 p.m. EST







The Event Offers Members of Disney’s Official Fan Club an Exclusive Look at Walt Disney World and Features Disney Legends, Imagineers, Musical Performances, Entertaining Presentations, Rare Screenings, Special Gifts & More.



Plus: D23’s Great Disney Scavenger Hunt: Walt Disney World Is Ready to Race!







Walt Disney World Resort is celebrating its 40th anniversary, and D23: The Official Disney Fan Club is marking this milestone May 14 and May 15 with their highly anticipated member event Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th, another unforgettable experience available exclusively to D23 Members. The event will take D23 Members on a journey from the moment when the first parcels of land in Central Florida were purchased in 1964 through the opening of EPCOT Center in 1982 and beyond.



D23 today announced that tickets will go on sale February 24 at 10 a.m., Pacific Time (1 p.m. Eastern Time). D23 members can purchase tickets to the spectacular two-day event at http://d23.disney.go.com/expo/030111_EE_DestinationDWDW.html. Last year’s Destination D event was sold-out so fans are encouraged to book early.



Guests may also now register for D23’s Great Disney Scavenger Hunt: Walt Disney World, which takes place May 12 & 13, and will send hundreds of teams across the Resort’s four theme parks in what will be the largest scavenger hunt to ever hit Walt Disney World! Registration for the Hunt is open to both D23 Member and the general public. (Registration for the Hunt is separate from Destination D.)



The weekend’s activities will illuminate the rich history of Walt Disney’s “Project Florida.” Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th will feature a remarkable gathering of Walt Disney World pioneers, retrospectives, screenings of rare and newly discovered film and TV footage and lively presentations that will give D23 members an unprecedented look at this truly spectacular World.



All Destination D guests will also receive a complimentary, limited-edition reproduction of the 1970 “Preview Edition” of the Walt Disney World souvenir guidebook from the Walt Disney Archives Collection. The 22-page, colorful book is just one of the gifts Members will receive. The complete Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th line-up (as well as information about D23’s Great Disney Scavenger Hunt) is available at the D23 Web site and includes:



* Appearances by notable Disney Legends & Imagineers Marty Sklar, Bob Gurr, Jack Lindquist, Eric Jacobson, Tony Baxter, Charlie Ridgway and Ron Logan, in addition to Debra Browne, the 1971 Walt Disney World Ambassador.

* A special exhibit from the Walt Disney Archives featuring rare items and artifacts showing the creation and evolution of Walt Disney World Resort.

* A multitude of fantastic presentations covering topics such as bizarre and wacky moments in Walt Disney World’s past, Walt’s vision for EPCOT, and even a peek at the Walt Disney World that never was!

* Rare autograph session with Disney Legends and authors.

* An enchanting concert, Magic Journeys: A Flight of Fancy through 40 Years of Walt Disney World Musical Memories featuring Disney Legend and Academy Award®-winner Richard M. Sherman.





DESTINATION D: WALT DISNEY WORLD 40TH – EVENT DETAILS







Date: May 14 & May 15, 2011



Location: Fantasia Ballroom, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida



Registration: Open Friday, May 13 from noon – 9 p.m. Open Saturday, May 14 at 8 a.m. Registration will be located at the East Registration Counter in the Fantasia Lobby of Disney’s Contemporary Resort



Tickets: Available Thursday, February 24, at 10 am PST (1 pm EST)



Visit www.D23.com to order tickets.



Cost: $175 per person; $215 for ticket plus registration of one Great Disney Scavenger Hunt team (between two and four people)











Read more details, including how to join D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, go to



www.D23.com

El Pirata y el Pericho has been renamed Tortuga Tavern

The operation is still seasonal, but the decor has changed to match the Pirates movies more explicitly.


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Tigger bounce pads STILL closed; rumored to be removed soon

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Star Wars Weekends dates - May 20-June 12

Star Wars Weekends return to DHS every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in the May 20-June 12 time frame. Expect lots of guests, though the only ones confirmed so far are Ashley Eckstein and Anthony Daniels.

http://www.starwars.com/fans/media/star_wars_weekends_2011_dates/index.html

SeaWorld's new whale show will not mix humans and orcas

"One Ocean" will open in late April, replacing Believe at SeaWorld Orlando. No longer will animals and humans mix in the water, no doubt in reflection of the death of a trainer last year. Also expect a heavier conservation theme. See more at the Orlando Sentinel: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/tourism/os-seaworld-killer-whale-show-20110203,0,5206150.story

Busch Gardens Tampa - $60 night safari

Perhaps in answer to Disney's new Wild Africa Trek, BGT has a new safari, with a nighttime examination of animals. Park admission is oddly not required, and it's only $60 per adult (MUCH cheaper than Disney's trek).

From the BGT blog:

Special Valentine-Themed Serengeti Night Safari Showcases Nighttime Behaviors of Animals


It's only two weeks away -- do you have your Valentine's Day date plans in order?

Celebrate Valentine’s weekend with a romantic adventure into the African night, complete with unforgettable experiences and delicious treats on Busch Gardens Serengeti Night Safari.

Venture through Edge of Africa to witness the active nighttime behaviors of hippos, lions and hyenas, lit only by moonlight and handheld lanterns.

Then, on the Serengeti Plain, use night-vision monoculars and special filtered lighting to view free-roaming herds of giraffes, zebra, rhinos and other intriguing African animals. After your amazing animal adventure, cozy up around a roaring bonfire to hear colorful tales of African folklore.

This nighttime experience begins and ends in the exclusive Safari Club. You will enjoy savory appetizers and adult beverages before the excursion, and a special nightcap completes the evening with champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries.

21 and over only.
http://www.buschgardenstampablog.com/valentine-s-weekend-date-night-idea-safari-adventure

Carib Royale hotel damaged by fire Saturday

If you saw the thick black smoke on Saturday mid-afternoon and wondered what it was, wonder no longer: it was the Carib Royale hotel (on World Center Drive, almost to the 417). This is the hotel with the waterfall along the front - I keep meaning to poke my head inside.

WFTV reports no one was injured, with no word on the cause. But it caused damage!
http://www.wftv.com/news/26663007/detail.html

Yay! Castle projections!

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Castle projections here I come!!

Seven Dwarfs Mine Coaster Interior Pic, new on FL construction walls. Image courtesy Steve Boutet.

Fantasyland 2012 details and pics (Seven Dwarfs Mine Train)

Fantasyland 2012 will keep the Beauty and the Beast restaurant, Dueling Dumbos, and Little Mermaid ride. The Barnstormer will become the Great Goofini.

The center part of the land will be the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train coaster - probably slightly larger than Barnstormer, but not BTMRR-sized. The cars will sway with each turn of the track (think Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom).

10 minute single rider (70 min standby) on Test Track. Maybe the rain is supressing crowds?

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The Aqua Duck water coaster on the new Disney Dream (video)

Here's a first-person video of riding on the Aqua Duck, the water coaster on Disney's newest ship. This was found on the open internet (recorded on 1/12 apparently):

I got a lot of flack from people when I first complained that the Magic and Wonder didn't have any rides, so in a way it's gratifying to see Disney actually add a ride to the cruising experience.

Star Wars Vinylmation on sale this Friday

Starting this Friday, D-Street will have the Star Wars Vinylmations. Yay!



They won't be in Disney Stores - only at DL and WDW. But you can order via mail order:
For Disneyland Resort, please telephone: 800-362-4533

For Walt Disney World Resort, please telephone: 877-560-6477
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2011/01/the-force-is-strong-with-vinylmation/

Menu for bar in Mexico (in spot of Food&Wine booth)

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Soarin FP sold out before 11

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Every year I forget how cool the Babes in Toyland marching soldiers are in the Xmas parade.

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Yet more new Pooh queue

An empty spot in the Pooh queue right before the honey wall has gotten its game: the "baby toy" type of track with permanently attached toy. You just bring your bee with you through holes and loops. Kids stay entertained, and adults get a reprieve. Win!




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30% WDW fast food coupon not necessary to bring. It's attached to "today" guides

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$7 Greek Salad at Electric Umbrella now tiny (and generic dressing). Disappointing.

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The Kindle edition of my new book (WDW Hidden History) is now available - $8.50

The paperless version of the newest book is now available. As Amazon points out, you can use the Kindle software on your smartphone instead of buying a Kindle device, if so inclined.

Read books on your computer or other mobile devices

	Get Kindle for PC
	Get Kindle for iPhone Also works on iPod Touch
	Get Kindle for BlackBerry
	Get Kindle for iPad
	Get Kindle for Android

WDW and DL offering dining coupons in the park!

For the first time I can think of, you can bring a printed coupon to a Disney park restaurant and get 30% off for dining during the holidays. It's only good during the "off" hours - clearly a way to spread out demand, and perhaps encourage sales that might otherwise not get made. It might also be an indication that the restaurants aren't making as much money as they want to (are supposed to? used to?)

See the official DisneyParks blog for the coupon:

http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2010/12/download-voucher-dine-during-off-hours-save-30-percent/?CMP=SOC-DPFY11Q1TwitterDisneyParks08-12-10@0026

Disney Store trip report

The Disney Store at Westfied Mall (Tampa) may lack the immersive theming of stores two decades age, but it's got a lot of theming and characters near the ceiling. It's my first trip to a Disney Store in maybe five years. I was impressed with the prices (way cheaper than the parks) and with the product mixture (it used to be clothes-heavy and now features a lot (mostly?) of toys.










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My new book, WDW Hidden History, has been around sales rank 11,000 for a day. Pretty cool!

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Where in WDW is this?

Pleasure Island club "Motion" looking forlorn. It will be torn out soon enough!

Where in WDW is this?

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Imagination!

Hmmm. This stinks!




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SeaWorld Orlando Xmas exceeds expectations

Ice skating shows, Sesame Street Xmas shows, special orca and sea lion shows, snowfall, and way more decorations than you can shake a stick at. Oh, and 75 Xmas trees on the water syncopated to music - their own version of Osborne lights. Area music is everywhere (and includes Christian songs, which Disney doesn't do any more). Wonderful!









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Putting Edge golf

It costs about the same as other mini golf in Orlando, it's air conditioned, and it's got dark light glow colors. What's not to love about Putting Edge?

You could point out that it's located in the dying (already deceased?) indoor mall called Festival Bay, at the north end of I-Drive. True, but that's not their fault. $8.50 will buy you 18 holes in an immersive course that doesn't wimp out - it's also fun and challenging. I especially like the few gimmick holes: use a tiny putter, use the putter like a pool cue, shoot without touching the carpet.













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IAAPA 2010

The annual trade show for amusement parks is in town. Heard Marty Sklar and Muckey Steinberg trade stories. Best line from Sklar: "That was bullshit!" (in reference to the idea that Japanese tourists don't like to get wet).




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New To Me

It's fantastically relaxing to spend a day doing stuff totally new to you. Yesterday I went to Fantasy of Flight (highly recommend this air museum), then had lunch at Pollo Campero, the new restaurant at Downtown Disney.

We followed THAT with a trip to the free campfire and singalong at Fort Wilderness. What a hidden gem! I want to spend a full day doing Ft Wilderness soon. It's like a fifth theme park! I was giddy even at seeing a new to me Disney store (I'm such a geek!)




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Pollo Campero open in DTD

The replacement for McDonalds opened today. Verdict: slightly more expensive than a Taco Bell but twice as fresh. Some frustrating shakedown issues, but nothing to urge you to stay away. We will be back!






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Orlando Touch a Truck

Orlando Touch a Truck is this weekend ($5 per person): http://www.orlandotouchatruck.com/

We had great fun at this last year, but have other plans this Saturday so we have to miss it. The event is sponsored by a church, but it's a non-religious event (there is no church presence).

Food Network casting call

This just in from the Food Network:

I am a casting assistant for 24 Hour Restaurant Battle, Food Network’s successful competition reality series. We are currently casting for our second season and would like to inform you and your readers that we are holding an open casting call in Orlando on Monday November 14, 2010.



We are looking for charismatic and outgoing two person teams with pre-existing relationships, who have always dreamed of running their own restaurant. Applicants may have lots of restaurant experience, no restaurant experience, or some combination of both. One member of the team will run the “back of the house” and one member will run the “front of the house”. As a team they must have the skills to open and run their own restaurant!

N o w C a s t i n g


orlando casting call information:

date: 11/14/2010

time: 10am - 1pm

location: Holiday Inn Orlando

5905 Kirkman Rd. Orlando, FL 32819

Who should apply:

Two person teams with pre-existing relationships. Husband/wife, ex-husband/wife, father/daughter, mother/son, newlyweds, brothers, sisters, twins, cousins, best friends etc.

Those with the skills to run a restaurant. Applicants may have lots restaurant experience, no restaurant experience, or some combination of them both. One member of the team will run the “back of the house” and one member will run the “front of the house”. As a team you must have the skills to open and run a restaurant!

Those with lots of personality. Teams must be charismatic and outgoing! Must have lots of energy!

Discovery Cove to add a second tropical reef in 2011

Discovery Cove takes immersion to new depths when it opens an all-new area -- The Grand Reef -- in June 2011. The new reef features multiple levels of exploration, from shallow waters to deeper swimming adventures, from white sandy beaches and hammocks swaying in the breeze, to snorkeling among canyons inspired by reefs from around the world.

“The Grand Reef takes Discovery Cove’s world-class animal encounters to an all new level -- several, actually,” said Stewart Clark, the park’s vice president. “It’s what our guests expect from us, unforgettable connections with the sea and making memories that will last forever. This could only be created by Discovery Cove.”

Visitors just need to get their feet wet to enjoy The Grand Reef, or they can choose to go deep. They can step into tranquil, shallow waters to discover a below-the-surface world teeming with sea life, or they can snorkel in deeper waters as thousands of exotic fish and graceful rays swim around them.

Surprises abound. Families can seek discoveries along the water’s edge or cross a bridge to see sharks swimming below. They’ll play hide-and-seek with thousands of beautiful fish, from small colorful wrasses to large spotted eagle rays. Further out in the reef, stunning habitats create the feeling of swimming right alongside venomous lionfish and sharp-toothed reef sharks, each safely behind glass. Guests can take paths and bridges to the reef’s islands and hidden grottos as they delve into the reef from above, around and below.

Those looking for an even more exhilarating adventure can take part in The Grand Reef’s innovative experience, SeaVenture, an underwater walking tour. Wearing dive helmets, guests find up-close excitement around every corner, each step yielding a new discovery.

They’ll come across lionfish and sharks (safely behind massive panoramic windows), one-on-one touches with unique animals and schools of fish and gentle rays swimming by. SeaVenture is a once-in-a-lifetime, undersea experience available for a nominal fee.

The Grand Reef is the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, a fully immersive tropical escape, new to discover in Orlando in 2011. There’s more to learn at http://www.discoverycove.com/.
 

Orlando's Biggest Yard Sale - Oct 23

The biggest yard sale event in Orlando, with 200+ families participating, returns this October.

They shut down Avalon Park for the day! This year, it’s Saturday October 23rd from 8am to 4pm, and they have a huge online google map and item listing page on their site:

http://www.avalonyardsale.com/

WDW 40th anniversary - a "preview" center

WDW's 40th anniversary celebration will be at Epcot (not MK). And focused on pins and vinylmation. Hm. At least a recreation of a (fake) preview center will be highly cool! http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2010/10/the-florida-project-september-9-11-2011/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+DisneyParks+%28Disney+Parks+Blog

New Busch Gardens Tampa coaster for 2011

Cheetah Hunt, a new "terrain" coaster (hugs the ground, emphasizes speed and airtime on low hills) comes to Busch Gardens Tampa in Spring 2011.

I'm excited!
http://www.buschgardens.com/bgt/buschgardens2011.aspx

Former Disneyland President Matt Ouimet

Former Disneyland president Matt Ouimet is leaving his current job (Corinthian colleges) effective Oct. 31 with no word on what's next for him: http://www.rttnews.com/Content/BreakingNews.aspx?Node=B1&Id=1442693

 I'm guessing a return to Disney is unlikely, but boy would he be welcome by me in Walt Disney World!

New Orlando coaster park proposed

ORLANDO, Fla. -- The City of Orlando is considering plans from a group which would bring a new amusement park to the city.

The Baker Leisure Group, which specializes in building theme parks, is looking to build “The Orlando Thrill Park.” The park would sit on 70 acres of land located along International Drive and would feature several roller coasters.

http://www.wftv.com/news/25361448/detail.html

Unusual "casting" for Orlando Yard "make over"

Not theme park related, but certainly Orlando related:

Is your front yard a nightmare?

Or, maybe it's your neighbor’s house that's making property values in the neighborhood plummet!?

Nancy Glass Productions is casting for a major television network's front yard makeover show and is looking for homeowners who have had it with the outside of their house...or their neighbor's house!

Quite simply, we want the most run down, overgrown FRONT YARDS we can find! The ugliest, most dilapidated eyesore in the neighborhood! Cars on cinder blocks, peeling paint, and falling shutters will be awarded bonus points!

Must be outgoing and be willing to be on camera. Some financial assistance may be possible. Act now!

Email us at casting@nancyglassproductions.com and in the subject line, please write FRONT YARD MAKEOVER with photos, contact info, and a brief description of your story.

Top Chef Master Rick Bayless at Macy's at the Mall at Millenia, Oct 17

Macy's Culinary Council chef and Top Chef Master Rick Bayless will be appearing at Macy's at the Mall at Millenia in Orlando on Sunday, October 17 for a free cooking demonstration. Rick will offer tips for serving up his trademark Latin cuisine by preparing dishes like Achiote Shrimp and Bacon Tomato Guacamole for customers to sample. Following his demonstration, Rick will be available to sign copies of his newest cookbook, Fiesta at Rick's, available for purchase at Macy's the day of the event.

Here are the details of the event...please let me know if you'd be interested in attending or spreading the word about this event on your blog.

WHO & WHAT:
Cookbook author, restaurateur, Top Chef Master and Macy's Culinary Council chef Rick Bayless will host a cooking demonstration and book signing.

WHEN:
Sunday, October 17th, 2010
2:00 PM

WHERE:
Macy’s at The Mall at Millenia
Home Department, 2nd Floor
4298 Millenia Blvd
Orlando, Florida 32839

RSVP:
Customer RSVPs are recommended but not required. Reserve your seat by calling 1.800.329.8667. This event is free.

MORE INFO:
http://pitch.pe/93104

Fantasy of Flight this Friday and Saturday, The Living History Symposium: "Airmen in Captivity: The POW Experience".

Airmen in Captivity: The POW Experience
Oct. 8-9, 2010

World War II created 93,941 prisoners of war. However, life in the prison camps bore little resemblance of what is depicted in the movies and on television. Before the prison gates closed behind them, these fierce young airmen survived catastrophic flying trauma only to be captured and imprisoned by the enemy. What lay ahead was a psychological battlefield armed with a barrage of interrogation, isolation, and brutal conditions.

What did they experience? What did they learn? How did they manage not only to survive but to triumph of these real-life traumatic experiences? Learn about facing the enemy without as well as the enemy within, from these true American heroes.

This event features an open-forum/question-and-answer format with WWII prisoners of war.

Price: Free with general admission and for all Annual Pass holders.

Corn Maze, 60 foot slide, hayrides and more!

Central Florida isn't just home to theme parks. It's got local charm and small town (OK, farm) stuff too!

http://www.longandscottfarms.com/maze_hrs_admission.html

Every Fall in the months of October & November Scott's Maze Adventures opens featuring our 6 acre Corn Maze.

Fall Corn Maze Dates & Hours:
October 2, 2010 - November 28, 2010
Saturdays 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sundays 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. (WE DO NOT OPEN FARM GATES UNTIL 1:00 on SUNDAYS!)
**LAST TICKET SOLD AT 3:00 PM, Farm closes at 5:00

TUESDAYS through FRIDAYS are by reservations ONLY and there is a minimum of $164.00, see Groups info at bottom!


Admission Options (Kids 2 and under free):
Corn Maze & Adventure Area;
Youth (3 – 16) $8.00
Adults (17 & Older) $10.00


Corn Maze & Adventure Area includes;
6.5 acre Corn Maze Half acre Mini Corn Maze
Labyrinth Rock Maze Mist Maze
60’ Super Slide Kids Zip Line
Picnic Area First level of Maze Tower
Children’s Play Area (including giant sandbox and playground)
Mazie the Dragon Parking
Country Market Access to Food Vendors

“Fishing FOR Kids” - $2.00 extra per person
“Cornfusion” Tree Maze - $2.00 extra per person
Weekend Hayrides - $4.00 per person


Fishing for Kids and Cornfusion Tree Maze are only on weekends. Tickets, may not be purchased separately and must be purchased as part of a combination ticket.

Weekend Discount Combo Admission;


Adult Maze & Hayride $13.00
Adult Maze & Hayride & Tree Maze $15.00

Youth Maze & Hayride $11.00
Youth Maze & Fishing $10.00
Youth Maze & Tree Maze $10.00
Youth Maze & Hayride & Fishing $13.00
Youth Maze & Hayride & Tree Maze $13.00
Youth Maze & Fishing & Tree Maze $11.00
Youth Maze & Hayride & Fishing & Tree Maze $15.00

Weekend Group Discounts apply ONLY;

•For Maze admission only
•With 25 or more paying guests, you receive 3 free Maze admissions
•Must have made an advance reservation
•Must have paid the group deposit, in our office 48 hours before arrival
•Does not include any other discount, i.e. Scout’s dollar off, combo tickets

Scout Weekend Discount*;
This year we do have 2 Scout weekends; October 16th and November 6th!! It is one dollar off to any Scout that is wearing a Scout Uniform. Or you can bring a group of 25 or more and qualify for the group discount. See above for weekend discounts!


Fall-O-Ween Weekend Discount*;
At the Farm the weekend of October 30th is our Fall-O-Ween. Anyone with a costume will receive one dollar off the Maze admission only. Not applicable with combo tickets.

Veteran's Weekend Discount*;
Any American Seviceman or Veteran with a valid ID card on the weekend of November 13th will get in free. Not applicable with combo tickets.

*Offers and discounts cannot be combined; everyone must pay to enter the Maze Park Area even if you do not take advantage of all activities.

Hayrides are on a hay wagon pulled by a Farm Tractor, about 15 to 20 minutes around part of the Farm. Weekends only.

Farm Tours are on a hay wagon pulled by a Farm Tractor, about 25 minutes around part of the Farm and includes an informative talk about our Farm, what and how we grow our produce. It will include our environmental practices and some Farming history. We encourage questions. For weekday groups.

“Fishing FOR kids” helps kids learn to bait a hook with a worm and fish in our pond on a cane pole. It is Catch and Release, so all fish will be returned to the pond. We provide the poles and the worms.

“Cornfusion” Tree Maze is a three acre maze, made of more than 1,000 Ligustrum Trees! These Ligustrum trees are in the shape of one large ear of corn! From the air it looks like this;


All Youth 16 and under MUST be chaperoned by an adult!
Food vendors are only here on the weekends and just take cash.
Groups under 20 do not need reservations during General Public hours.

Weekend Groups
We encourage groups of 20 or more coming on the weekends to make reservations ahead of time. It helps with crowd control, we only deal with one person for payment and that saves much time! We will "try" to get your group through the lines as quickly as possible. Since weekends are open to the General Public, setting aside a separate picnic area will depend on when you made your reservation and what time you arrive at the Farm. See Groups info!

Farewell letter from Disney archivist Dave Smith

Dear friends, fellow cast members, and Disney fans:

It has been so gratifying to me to have established the Walt Disney Archives and run it for the past 40 years, helping to preserve the history of a company that means so much to so many people around the world. When I reported for my first day of work at the Disney Studio back in June 1970, I never envisioned myself staying in the same role for four decades. But, what started out as a mere job turned into a labor of love.

From a glimmer of an idea, the Archives has turned into a department which continually proves itself invaluable to The Walt Disney Company. I am very pleased to have had the support of an ever-growing and knowledgeable staff and of every CEO of this company from Roy O. Disney to Bob Iger. If these corporate leaders had not championed the Archives, we would not have the department that we have today – one that is so beneficial to the entire Disney organization.

But I won't be going far. Rest assured, I will still be dropping by the office occasionally to help out when needed – keeping up "Disney A to Z," speaking to D23 and other groups, and advising authors that are writing on Disney subjects. And of course, I'll also be on hand to answer future "Ask Dave" questions.

So as I retire, I am comforted to know that I am leaving behind a very viable department for our new director, Becky Cline, to take over. And with your support, I am sure that the Archives will continue to serve our company for many years to come!

Yours always,

Dave


http://home.disney.go.com/foryou/disneyfans/insider/article/?date=20100928&magicKey=dol&mDate=20100928

Book tour for Universal book 2011

Orlando Author on Book Tour Will Reveal Why J.K. Rowling Chose Universal – And What She Got In Return

ORLANDO – It might have been the “Wizarding World of Walt Disney,” but the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the hottest thing to hit Orlando in decades, opened at Universal Orlando instead. How come?

It’s a question that has a lot of people scratching their heads. After all, with its fabled “Imagineers” and deep pockets, Walt Disney World seemed the logical choice to bring the phenomenally successful Potter franchise to vivid life.

So why did the Boy Wizard take up residence at Universal’s Islands of Adventure? It seems Universal made Ms. Rowling an offer she couldn’t refuse.

Seth Kubersky, a former Universal team member and Orlando journalist, will discuss the behind-the-scenes story of how Universal's Wizarding World came to be in a series of talks at Barnes and Noble stores in Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville, Florida from October 5 to 9.

Kubersky, a former stage technician and special event supervisor at Universal, is co-author of Universal Orlando 2011: The Ultimate Guide to the Ultimate Theme Park Adventure (The Intrepid Traveler, $15.95).

Among the other insider stories and little-known facts Kubersky will unveil are how Universal’s designers got around the Federal Aviation Administration’s height limit for buildings when they created Hogwarts Castle, and the best ways to beat the enormous crowds that have packed Harry’s world since its opening.

Titled, “Hidden Harry Potter: Seven Insider Secrets of Universal Orlando’s New Wizarding World,” Kubersky’s presentation will also unveil some of the surprising ingredients in butterbeer, as well as where to grab a mug of the wildly popular brew with the least waiting time.

Kubersky is uniquely qualified to reveal the secrets behind Harry Potter’s theme park magic. As technician for the Terminator 2: 3-D attraction, he has ridden the Terminator’s motorcycle on stage. As stage manager for Halloween Horror Nights, he spent whole nights in a haunted house, and performed on stage at the Universal Cineplex as producer of the Rocky Horror Picture Show “Live.” Kubersky also keeps an eagle eye on Orlando’s theme park scene as the culture columnist for the Orlando Weekly, and has contributed to Visit Florida and Virgin Airlines magazines as well as Rudy Maxa's radio shows.

Universal Orlando 2011 can be ordered at a discount at
http://www.intrepidtraveler.com/universal

The “Hidden Harry Potter” events will be held at the following Barnes and Noble locations. All events are free.

October 5, 7:00 p.m.
Colonial Plaza Market Center
2418 E. Colonial Drive
Orlando, FL 32803
407-894-6024

October 7, 7:00 p.m.
Carrollwood
11802 N. Dale Mabry Hwy.
Tampa, FL 33618
813-962-6446

October 9, 1:00 p.m.
Mandarin Village Shopping Center
11112 San Jose Blvd., Suite 8
Jacksonville, FL 32223
904-886-9904

Destination D scavenger hunt to take place in WDW in spring 2011

· Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th Anniversary. Following the rave reviews of Destination D: Disneyland ’55, D23 has announced Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th Anniversary to be held in spring 2011 (exact dates TBD). The event will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Orlando resort, its history and heritage. Panels will include all-new presentations that echo the successful panels at Destination D: Disneyland ’55, including “Walt Disney World: The Way We Were,” hosted by Disney Legend Dave Smith, “Weird Disney” with Walt Disney Archives director Becky Cline, “From Quirky to Collectible: The Wonderful World of Walt Disney World Merchandise,” “Walt Disney World Through the Eye of Television” and “Walt Disney World in Pop Culture,” as well as a special evening event featuring musical memories from throughout the history of Walt Disney World. Other panels, featured speakers and details will be announced soon on the D23 Web site.

· D23’s Great Disney Scavenger Hunt: Walt Disney World. The race is on… again! Following this past weekend’s first Great Disney Scavenger Hunt at Disneyland with 2,000 people and 575 teams, D23 is inviting guests to the Walt Disney World Resort for a fun-filled, two-day hunt around the World. In spring 2011, for the first time in the 40-year history of Walt Disney World, guests will have the chance to scour all four theme parks to win incredible Disney prizes in this official Disney scavenger hunt. The cost will be $50 per team for D23 Members and $75 per team of non-members. Each team will consist of between 2-4 participants, and additional rules and registration information will be available soon at the D23 Web site.

Disney is now the "offiical theme park" of the Orlando Magic

It may sound like an odd combination - an official theme park for a basketball team? official cruise line? - but it's not so odd.

Disney is the 800 pound gorilla here, so the Magic should be joined with them. And think about the name. The "Magic". This is no coincidence!


More details here:
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2010/09/disney-parks-teams-up-with-the-orlando-magic-and-amway-center/

Vault of Walt - new book by Jim Korkis

Ayefour Publishing, the publisher of "Project Future: The Inside Story Behind the Creation of Disney World" is pleased to announce the release of a new book by internationally renowned Disney Historian, Jim Korkis.

"Vault of Walt" is an exciting look into many previously untold stories related to the life of Walt Disney--all from the exclusive research of Jim Korkis and his alias Wade Sampson.

The book includes a Foreword by Walt Disney's daughter, Diane Disney Miller.

The original material in "Vault of Walt" promises to be a "must read" for Disney fans of all types as it focuses on Disney films, Disney parks, and other amazing stories from the life of an amazing man, Walt Disney.

Attached you will find a press release; FAQ; the Diane Disney Miller Foreword; and the book's Table of Contents.

"Vault of Walt" is currently available at https://www.createspace.com/3485212 and will be officially released on Amazon.com on October 3rd (including a Kindle version).

Jim Korkis is available for interviews and appearances for "Vault of Walt". To schedule an interview or appearance, please contact Jim Korkis directly at jkorkis@aol.com.

For additional information related to the "Vault of Walt", contact Chad Emerson of Ayefour Publishing at 334.201.5241 or info@ayefourpublishing.com.

IAAPA returns to Orlando

IAAPA Attractions Expo will be back in Orlando in November, 2010. If you've not been before, you'll be amazed at the up-and-coming range of amusements and parks. It's $199 to register as a non-member. Register to attend here: http://www.iaapa.org/expos/attractions/attendeeindex.asp

"Taste of the J" local food fest in Orlando Sunday

[From the press release]

This Sunday, August 29 from 12-4pm, the JCC South Orlando at the Jack & Lee Rosen Campus is holding its 2nd Annual Taste of the J. The Taste of the J is a FREE festival of local food expected to draw close to 1,500 people.

Guests are invited to sample culinary creations for free and then purchase larger portions if they care to. There will be free classes such as Yoga and Zumba as well as Threatre South Classes like the Blue Man Group and Glee. And fun activities and games for families including video gaming with The Game Dudes.

This year, the following restaurants will be offering samples and vying for awards during the Taste of the J Food Competition. Awards will be given out for Best Dessert, Best Appetizer, Best Drink, Most Creative Display and Most Creative Food Sample Presentation. Even the kids can compete: an ice cream eating competition will be held for the youngsters.

Rosen Hotels & Resorts

Bagel King

Cohen’s Deli

Pinkberry

Kettle Corn Company

Stefano’s Italian Grille

The Palm

Cantina Laredo

Barnies Coffee and Tea Company

Doubletree Resort Orlando International Drive

Anatolia Mediterranean Cuisine

Pure Magic Ice Cream

Picture This Candy Company

Classy Cakes and Candies

For more information, visit http://www.orlandojcc.org/events/event_details.asp?id=109009

IAAPA in Orlando the next 10 years

The major trade show for attractions, rides, and carnivals, IAAPA, used to move around the country. It was in Orlando a few years ago, but will now be coming the next ten years in a row. Looks like someone out there agrees with me that if amusement parks are your thing, it's hard to beat Orlando!

Wal-Mart near WDW

The area at the end of 192-west (where it meets 27) is a hotspot fir British tourists especially for some reason.

Accordingly, the International Foods aisle has loads if British brands.




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Free Speedway!

For Disney World annual passholders:

Stop by Walt Disney World Speedway now until March 31 and receive a complimentary Ride Along*that's three laps riding shotgun in a NASCAR-style race car with a professional driving instructor around the one-mile track, reaching speeds up to 140mph
(taken from passholder newsletter)

Disney Marathon FREEZE

The half marathon on Friday night/Saturday morning promises to be cold. Here's the Kissimmee forecast, which should approximate the weather at WDW:
Low: 33°F RealFeel®: 26°F
Mostly cloudy and colder with showers

... leading to a Saturday of:
High: 44°F RealFeel®: 32°F
A bit of rain and sleet in the morning; otherwise, cloudy, breezy and colder. It appears likely to rain at 8am, when the temp should be 36 degrees (no snow).

Then, Saturday night, when the full marathon folks wake up and stand around the epcot parking lot:
Low: 26°F RealFeel®: 11°F
Clear and colder; breezy late; watch for a hard freeze

Um, ouch. The rest of Sunday says:
High: 50°F RealFeel®: 41°F
Windy and very cold with times of clouds and sun

Good running weather, on the one hand. I will be volunteering and thus standing around. Pity me, instead!! :)

Ch-Ch-Changes

Let's see, 2010 is all of seven days old, and WDW has already done numerous things.

Additions: fast food pizza under construction in Epcot's Italy pavilion, Muppet pre-parade float at MK.

Deletions: Tiana's Showboat Jubilee, Prince Caspian at DHS (on Jan 11), Mexico fast food (the building will be torn down and replaced), Picnic in the Park dining concept at DAK.

This promises to be a year of much action. Which, actually, is true every year.

Greek on East Orlando

Just had Cypriana in east Orlando - awesome sit down Greek food at just over fast food prices. We will be back next week! It's never busy, though, so I worry about them closing.

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SeaWorld better decorated than Disney

The MK has some decorations, though not everywhere. And only cuz they have a party they want you to pay for.

DHS has good decorations, especially the phenomenal Dancing Lights. But epcot is all but unadorned.

Meanwhile SeaWorld has five Xmas shows and almost all light poles have garlands. Lights are everywhere. Looks great!




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Don't Unplug the lights!

It would be easy to unplug a few of the Osborne lights in this hallway to the Muppets.




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New DHS sign?

This warehouse used for Star Wars Weekends used to have only an A-frame




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Custodial drawn Mickeys

Since summer at least, we've seen Custodial CMs "paint" Mickey faces on the concrete using just water and bound up brooms. It's a cool effect.

This one is great for being a full Mickey body, and also for the artistry. I like this minor addition to the parks.




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DisneyQuest when slow

Usually DisneyQuest is busy on weekends. Not sure why it's manageable today. Someday I will soak up a whole day here just learning to play Dragon's Lair, the game that would have cost a fortune in my youth




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LMA tires

On the Backlot Tour they no longer say anything about the tires for Lights Motors Action stage show. It's an automated spiel, so this is permanent.

They used to boast how often tires had to be changed, and on the tram they drove by a window that showed dozens and dozens of tires waiting to be used. That tire room is no longer visible because the window has been boarded up. One assumes they decided it was environmentally unfriendly to keep pointing out how many resources like rubber this show uses.


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Less food, same price

Columbia Harbour House reduced portions some time ago (see the nuggets), but I now see that the tuna sandwich suddenly comes with no fries. You get a bag of chips instead. Because the price didn't decrease, it's fair to actually call this a stealth price increase (you now have to spend more to get the same food).




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Holiday cups

WDW has started using holiday wax soda cups for the small (but not large) sodas.




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Everest Challenge 5K trip report

It was a wet race!
http://bit.ly/31aU5d

New Stuff in the Park

It's amazing that you can live in Central Florida for five years, visit the Disney parks literally every weekend, and STILL find stuff that is new on every visit. This weekend here is the stuff that was new to me (some had clearly been adjusted months and years ago, but I don't see every last thing on every last weekend):

DAK:
- centralized FastPass. Guess what? They are "unlinked", meaning you can hold all three! This is just a test, though, and was supposed to end last weekend. Who knows how long it will continue.

- stump with holes in it "point" to animals on the tree of life. If you put your eye to the holes, you see a tunnel through to the other side, and your vision is restricted to just one animal on the tree of life. neat.

MK:
- When Donald throws out instruments at the start of Philharmagic, he also throws out stars.

- the shop in the post-show has those same stars in the ceiling.

DHS:
- the Up meet and greet was new for me

- the wall of framed scenes from Disney movies was gone and now there's a meet Sorcerer Mickey set up here. This is months old, but I hadn't bothered to see it until now.

Epcot:
- There is a scene of a farmer standing in a field of (wheat? corn?) in the Circle of Life movie that I'm pretty sure was used in American Journeys ("these days, there's darn few of us here on the farm"). Another scene shows "primitive" people walking in a field of flowers, and I'm 99% sure this is taken on a path I've climbed up at Maroon Bells in Colorado.

Pretty much every weekend of my life is like this. Incrementally, I learn more about Disney every single trip. Now this is living the dream!

Legion Of Terra-Cotta Mouseketeers Found Beneath Disney World

Everyone loves the Onion, right?

ORLANDO, FL—A Disney World maintenance crew performing routine electrical work below Cinderella Castle last week accidentally stumbled upon a mysterious underground chamber believed to contain more than 8,000 terra-cotta Mouseketeer statues dating back to 300 B.C.

http://www.theonion.com/content/news/legion_of_terra_cotta_mouseketeers

Monorail accident: the best recap

Reader G7 has put together the best recap, tribute, and list of sources on the monorail accident. Pretty close to definitive, if you ask me:

http://planet7.org/monorail

Kevin Lansberry to take over DAK

The guy in charge of Downtown Disney, Kevin Lansberry, has been tapped as the new VP for DAK.

Not, in my view, a good development. Lansberry presided over the gutting of PI, the closing of clubs, the closing of Virgin. Not much has been added, except the balloon (which, admittedly, is fun.... overpriced if you do it more than once, though).

Hong Kong Disney to get 30 attractions

HONG KONG -- The Walt Disney Co. and Hong Kong's government have reached a deal to expand the territory's Disneyland theme park at a cost of about $465 million, officials announced Tuesday.

The deal, in the works over the last two years, is part of an effort to boost the fortunes of the theme park after it failed to attract as many visitors as hoped after its opening in 2005.

The park, a joint venture between Walt Disney and the Hong Kong government, will get three new theme areas, as well as 30 new attractions.

http://www.wftv.com/news/19901655/detail.html

Disney notebook

Disney Partners With Asus On Netpal Eee "Netbook" For Kids

http://gizmodo.com/5292959/disney-partners-with-asus-on-netpal-eee-netbook-for-kids

There's a pink one, but the "boy" one looks pretty tame. No male characters?

WDW Restaurant reservations... now available online!

http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/

You know you've been expecting this :)

Uni Queues: Who Knew?

How embarressing. I've lived in Central Florida for five years and had an annual pass to Uni that whole time, but there have been queues I've never set foot in. Namely: the regular (standby) queue for Mummy and for Men In Black.

When I first moved here, the Universal Express pass (front of line pass) was free, like Disney's FastPass. Now, you have to buy it. When the Express passes stopped being free, I started using single-rider lines when available, since I've had small kids in my family all this time and can't wait in line with the whole brood anyway.

Net result: I've never once stood in the Standby line for Mummy or MIB, until two weekends ago. I know I'm horribly, inexcusably late in saying this, but WOW! MIB has some themed rooms and animatronics (very cool), and Mummy has a much longer queue than I'd expected and some intricate "traps" that are interactive (also very cool).

I'm just tickled to discover stuff like that, even years later. I wonder how many decades it will be before Central Florida's park bore me? (hint: probably double digits, speaking in terms of decades)

Vehicles spotted on track of Rip Ride Rockit

At Uni on Sunday, I saw the two-car train for Rip Ride Rockit on the lifthill, just shy of cresting the hill. It was stopped. Later, it was gone; I assume it traveled the track in normal coaster fashion, and I just missed it!

Eddie Sotto interviews

A great Imagineer with an incredible history (all the way back to Knott's Soap Box Racers), Eddie casts a long shadow. Two new interviews this week:

http://www.imagineeringdisney.blogspot.com
and
http://www.themedattraction.com

disney dining reservations - another visitor dismayed by 90 days

From Reader Ben:

We're currently planning our summer trip to WDW for this year. We booked
a room at the Yacht Club (mostly for its proximity to Epcot), but were
later offered a much less expensive room at the Swan. We have kept the
Yacht Club reservation for now in case the rate goes down (in this
climate, one never knows what deal might appear), since we don't have to
cancel it until July 4th. This will become important in a moment.

Anyway, last week I started mulling over what restaurants we might want
to eat at, seeing as the 90 day reservation limit was approaching. On
our last big trip in 2007 I made the reservations a full 180 days in
advance, back when the limit was as such. I don't do so because I seek
to control and pre-plan every aspect of our visit (quite the opposite)-
but because I know it will be a hassle to get a table without a
reservation and that furthermore the best reservations (or, in some
cases, all reservations) get booked up quickly, especially now that the
booking window is halved.

So today I called up with my list of restaurants and times- 89 days in
advance of our arrival. After going through the extensive automated menu
system, I was finally granted a live cast member. First I was asked for
my hotel confirmation number, which I assumed was merely so that the
reservations could be synced in the system to our hotel reservation, or
if we had the Disney Dining Plan, that, and so forth.

In fact, however, there was more to it than that. It seems that under
the new system (which, the cast member informed me, has only been in
place for two weeks), Disney Resort guests can make reservations 90 days
plus 10 days in advance. This means that one can call up 90 days in
advance of your stay and then make reservations for your entire visit.

I, however, was staying at the Walt Disney World Swan, and this, I was
told, did not count as a "Disney" resort as such. While Swan and Dolphin
guests are usually bestowed most of the perks of Disney owned resorts,
such as the ability to enjoy Extra Magic Hours, this was not one of
them. As a result, I could only make reservations for the first and
second days of my 10 day trip, which fell in the 90 day window.

The idea that I would have to call back every day and make the
reservations one at a time was a tad annoying, but not so much an issue.
The bigger problem was that resort guests (who, I would assume. make up
the vast majority of those who make such reservations far in advance)
would have a 10 day jump on me, and there was as such a much greater
chance those choice reservations would be unavailable by the time my
booking window rolled around.

It occurred to me at this point, however, that I still had my Yacht Club
reservation. Using the confirmation number of that, I was able to make
the rest of my reservations.

I suppose the most obvious interpretation of this is that it is yet
another reason to stay at a Disney resort- a fair perk they can offer
and another layer of the "Destination Disney" program. Between the
shorter reservation window and the 10 day head-start for resort guests
in the know (this fact, after all, was not listed on the WDW website as
far as I could find, only the 90 day window), this means it will be even
more difficult to get dining reservations, especially for those cases
where restaurants overlook fireworks such as the California Grill, and
for the Fantasmic! dinner package. It is easy to foresee, as well, that
those enterprising souls who make their reservations as early as
possible will start calling 100 days in advance and making their
reservations one day at a time, so that many reservations will be
snapped up even once the publicized 90 day window rolls around. Thus it
will go from a convenience of being able to make all of one's
reservations at once to a further inconvenience.

While I can't blame Disney for the rule, or call it unfair, other than
the fact that it doesn't seem well publicized, it is definitely another
step in a bad direction for the average WDW guest trying to get a table
at a restaurant.