My Disney Blog

Disney Gathering Calendar

2009-11-07T18:03:42-06:00

One of the things I have never had the opportunity to do, but would LOVE to do, is travel with some Disney friends. I've long wanted to go to the various Disney meets and gatherings, but have not been able to travel during those times. I thought it would be fun to put together a comprehensive listing of various Disney travel events.

I am SO excited to announce that I am in the planning stages for a Disney Mediterranean cruise during the summer of 2011. More information should be coming out soon regarding this cruise. It would be an amazing opportunity to meet some of the friends I've made through this blog, twitter, and through DisFriends. This would be a dream come true!

So, here is the list. I will update this with more information when I receive it:

DECEMBER 2009
WDW Today Reunion - WOW - this looks like a great event. Lots of people have already signed up for this! A range of events, and you can sign up for one or for all. Check it out at WDW Today Reunion

JULY 2010
Magic Meets at Sea - cruise on Royal Caribbean (July 22-26, 2010). Information at magicmeets.com

OCTOBER 2010
Mouse Guest Experience 3 - cruise on the Disney Magic (October 23-30, 2010). Information should be on mouseguest.com in the near future.

FEBRUARY 2011
WDW Radio Cruise with Lou Mongello - (February 27-March 3, 2011). Information and quote forms are now available on wdwradiocruise.com. This is the Disney Dream INAUGURAL CRUISE!

MAY 2011
Deb Wills Alaska Inaugural Cruise - Cruise with Deb Wills of AllEars.Net (May 3 2011 Sailing). Information on mousefantravel.com and will be on AllEars.Net coming up soon. This is the INAUGURAL CRUISE to Alaska!

JUNE 2011
Be Our Guest Podcast Cruise - (June 11, 2011). Find out more on the BeOurGuestPodcast forums

SUMMER 2011
DisneyDean's Mediterranean Cruise (Details coming soon - most likely July 2011). 11-Night Mediterranean Cruise on the Disney Magic. Info coming soon on MyDisneyBlog.com and twitter.com/DisneyDean

Do you know of any other events, or have any corrections to the above calendar? Just let me know. Email me at mickeysites@gmail.com or send me a note on twitter!

--- Disney Dean

My Disney Family - A Perspective

2009-10-20T09:49:13-05:00

I have been meaning to write this blog post for quite some time, but just haven't been able to find enough quiet time to fully devote to it. I knew it was going to take me a very long time to write it, and I wanted to really be able to concentrate on what I was going to say.

I remember the day I started my blog (MyDisneyBlog.com). It was just a couple short years ago. I was such a huge fan of the Disney bloggers that had already waded into the territory before me, and I thought to myself "what on earth am I doing considering writing a blog with the likes of these guys". Nonetheless, with no clear premise of where I was going with the blog, and no idea what I had to offer, I started writing. I remember that it was a lot of work, but it truly never felt like work to me. It was so cathartic, and allowed me to get all my thoughts down on paper. As a TRUE Disney fan, you likely annoy non-Disney people with all the talk about Disney, so this gave me a chance to get my thoughts down without annoying my family and friends all day. My wife truly LOVES Disney, but honestly, she didn't want to talk about it all day :)

Well, at first, it got to be a little bit lonely, as I really didn't have any readers. But, after a while, a funny thing happened - people started to email me and post comments below some of my blog posts. I was THRILLED at the chance to talk to other Disney fans and bloggers! Armed with this new self-confidence, I nervously reached out to those Disney bloggers who had paved the trail before me. Some of them included John Frost, of the AMAZING TheDisneyBlog.com, George and Andy at Imaginerding.com, Ray at Grumpy's Hollow, and Dave at Daveland. I honestly thought there was no way these guys were going to talk to me. I thought maybe they would think I was trying to infringe on their blogs, or that I was just another new blogger that wanted something. Well, fortunately, nothing could be further from the truth! The response from these folks was unbelievable. They were kind, they tried to help me get my blog going, and had lots of suggestions. I will never forget the help that these bloggers gave me, as well as many other bloggers.

I found that I'm kind of a 'periodic' blogger. I go through periods of time where I need a break, but then I have this overwhelming desire to get going again. I guess this isn't all that uncommon, but usually people are more constant with their writing.

Well, earlier this year, I received about 3 email messages from my readers telling me I HAD to get on twitter. What was this 'twitter' everyone was speaking of! :) I took a look at it and quickly concluded that it wasn't for me in the least. Nonetheless, I signed up for it, and just started playing around. Well, nearly 9000 tweets later, I guess you could say that I did conclude it was for me! I love so much about the act of blogging, and I also love the instant feedback and conversation that is created by twitter. I have more than 5500 friends on twitter as of this writing, and I am thankful each day for each one of these friends. I feel out of sorts if I don't start and end my day talking to some of my new friends on twitter.

This "little world" - the twitterverse, as some call it - makes me so unbelievably happy. I thank my lucky stars each day for the wonderful people I have come to know on twitter and through my blog. I truly don't know anyone that I really don't want to spend some time getting to know. The rest of the world, outside of twitter, really doesn't understand the bonds that can be created through this social networking site. When I talk about a friend of mine on twitter, they nearly always say "yeah, right - how can you have a friend that you've never met." I usually go about trying to defend how they are my friends, and I tried to think about why I can safely call the people I talk to on twitter "my friends".

"My Friends" are the people that checked in with me several days a week while I was preparing for gallbladder surgery. They took the time out of their day to make sure I was doing well, and then freaked out if they didn't hear from me after a day. They waited nervously while I had my surgery, and even talked to each other while I was having my surgery. These same people wished me Happy Birthday by the HUNDREDS on my 40th birthday this year. "My Friends" went along with me on my recent trip to Hawaii, totally living vicariously through my experiences, and honestly happy as can be that I was enjoying myself. They couldn't wait to hear more about it, and frankly, I couldn't wait to tell them about it. It wasn't bragging in any way - it was sharing my life experiences with people who I've come to know. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't have a good laugh at something said by my friends on twitter and through my blog, and that's a pretty good thing if you ask me :)

While that was amazing, I also started to think of WHY we became "friends". I thought long and hard about it, and I realized that what we have goes very, very deep. These are the same friends that smile with the excitement of a 5 year old child each time they see Cinderella or Sleeping Beauty Castle. If anyone could capture the look on all of our faces, I'm pretty darn sure it would be the same. These are also the friends that take pride in noticing the smallest of changes in the parks, or something special done by one of the amazing cast members of the Disney Parks. "My Friends" are also the same people who try so hard, but can't seem to not shed a tear on the last night in the parks - male or female. I've now been to the parks several times, and it never fails to amaze me that it becomes more and more special each time we go. We are all so similar in this regard, and this is why I can safely call my Disney Friends "My Friends".

This is what Walt Disney set out to create when he set his plans in motion for Disneyland.

I know that every family experiences some tension, and inevitably - there are disagreements in each family or group of friends. A couple weeks ago, two dear friends had a falling out on twitter. It truly is breaking my heart, as I know that there is this major common bond between them, and a golden thread that can be pulled, but never cut attaching them. This golden thread is the spirit that Walt Disney created, and it continues within each one of us to this day. As Disney fans, we really need to be able to let things like this go, and start to talk to each other again with the spirit of Walt Disney. I guess we have to ask ourselves what Walt would say to us, and I'm sure he would sit down in a calm manner, and just start talking. I truly believe that all disputes between two people can be talked out, and it will also set the mind at ease and unburden your hearts by working it out.

Anyway, I know this was a rambling story, but it was something I really needed to say for quite some time now. To those that say we're not "true friends" or not some kind of family - I say "you're wrong". I truly feel blessed to have each of you in my life, and look forward to many more happy times in the future. Thanks so much for being "My Disney Family"

--- Disney Dean

photo from wikipedia.org

UK Disney Fans - May I Have Your Attention!

2009-10-13T08:10:14-05:00

Do you think your town is the most magical place to live? Does it have a touch of sparkle that makes it stand out from a crowd? Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, the place where dreams come true, is searching for a UK town, village or city to become its first official “twin town” so now’s your chance to tell the world why your home town is so special.

From now until 22 November 2009, anyone across the UK (over 18 years) can nominate their home village, town or city to become the Walt Disney World twinned town by visiting www.waltdisneyworldtwinnedtown.co.uk. Full terms are available on the website.

The winning location will be announced as having official “Walt Disney World Twinned Town” status and arrangements will be made to hold a magical Disney party in January to celebrate the twinning. Plus, the lucky person who submits the winning nomination will jet off to Walt Disney World in Florida with their family (max 4 people) for the official twinning ceremony presided over by the mayor of Main Street, U.S.A., in the fairy tale Magic Kingdom.

To nominate your town, you can write about how great it is, take photographs, or even make your own video, showing why it deserves to win this amazing competition. Entries can be uploaded on the website and visitors to the site can browse all qualifying entries to check out the competition.

The winning entry will be selected by a team of judges, including TV star Angellica Bell, Vice President Creative Inc, Walt Disney World Duncan Wardle, Vice President and managing director of Disney Destinations International UK Hugh Wood, and one of the famous Walt Disney Imagineers, Patrick Brennan.

Comments Hugh Wood of Disney Destinations International: “Britain has an established tradition of twinned towns and co-operation with its European counterparts, and this is an incredible opportunity to be the UK’s first town ever to be twinned with Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. We believe it is time to recognise the great values that make UK towns and villages special and with so many guests visiting Walt Disney World every year from the UK, we felt there was no better way to find that special town or village than by allowing the British public to nominate the places they are proud of.”

Angellica Bell adds: “I am thrilled to be involved with the search for Walt Disney World’s first-ever twin town. Every village, town and city can enter, however big or small, and I cannot wait to see why people think their community deserves to win.”

--- Disney Dean

Halloween Deals at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin

2009-10-08T12:33:39-05:00

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort Offers a “Spooktacular” $129 Rate during Halloween Weekend Families can trick or treat around the resort and enjoy a specially themed beach party Halloween night at this deluxe resort located within the Walt Disney World Resort

It’s no trick. The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort is offering rooms at $129 per night for Halloween weekend.

Whether visitors are looking to celebrate at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, indulge in the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival or just escape for a weekend, they can treat themselves and their families at a deluxe resort located conveniently in the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort for just $129 per night.

On Oct. 31, guests can sweeten their stay by trick or treating around the resort’s 17 restaurants and lounges and enjoying a Halloween beach party that will include a pumpkin patch, pie-eating contest, face painting, candy and more.

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort offers guests special Disney benefits which include complimentary transportation to Walt Disney World Theme Parks and Attractions and early or extended park hours with the Extra Magic Hours benefit. The resort is conveniently located within walking distance to Epcot® and Disney’s Hollywood StudiosTM, and is nearby Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park and Magic Kingdom® Park.

Guests can find out more information and reserve the “Spooktacular” Halloween deal by calling
1-800-227-1500 and mentioning the code “spooky”. Offer is valid Oct. 28 – 31, 2009; requires a minimum three-night stay and is subject to rate plan availability.

In the heart of the Walt Disney World® Resort, the award-winning Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort is your gateway to Central Florida’s greatest theme parks and attractions. The resort is located in between Epcot® and Disney’s Hollywood StudiosTM, and nearby Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park and Magic Kingdom® Park. Come discover our 17 world-class restaurants and lounges, sophisticated guest rooms with Westin Heavenly Beds® and the luxurious Mandara Spa. Enjoy five pools, two health clubs, tennis, nearby golf, and many special Disney benefits, including complimentary transportation to Walt Disney World Theme Parks and Attractions, and the Extra Magic Hours benefit. The resort can be reached at 800-227-1500 or www.swandolphin.com.

--- Disney Dean

Disney Hawaii Resort Update as of September 22, 2009

2009-09-25T03:29:13-05:00

I am updating this blog from Hawaii, and could not be more excited to share these images with you! I am currently staying in a gorgeous townhome in the Ko Olina development. Ko Olina is the development in which Disney is building their newest resort. I took the following pictures from several different vantage points, and tried to highlight the particular vantage point on the photos. I will embed a slideshow in this blog post, but will also include the link below the slideshow if you would prefer to view them on my PhotoBucket account.

The Ko Olina area is on the southwestern corner of the island of Oahu, Hawaii. It is the driest point on the island, receiving less than 20 inches of rain a year. In contrast, the highest mountain areas near the eastern (windward) side receive close to 300 inches of rain a year. In short, Ko Olina receives a TON of sunshine, and is in a great location to have a Disney resort. It is safe, clean, beautiful and it makes me want to live here. I'm lucky enough to have stayed here for 10 nights (still here), and I really never want to leave (unless it is for Disney trips!). The Ko Olina area is a good 30-45 minute drive from downtown Honolulu (depending on traffic), but it is worth the drive. It's really not a bad drive to Honolulu/Waikiki, and it is much more quiet and laid back in the Ko Olina development compared to Honolulu/Waikiki.

The coves in front of the new Disney resort are absolutely, positively AMAZING! You will be blown away swimming in any of the coves, but particularly in cove 1, as that is the cove Disney is building on. We go out near the J.W. Marriott Ihilani some mornings and feed the Bonefish in the cove. There are Sea Turtles, gorgeous fish and I'm sure there are many other creatures out there. The Marriott folks said about 4-5 times a year, a shark makes it's way into the lagoon - isn't that cool? :) Hey, it's their home, and they are most often more afraid of us than we are of them. Usually it's tiger sharks that make their way in, if they do at all.

Anyway, I will have more details coming soon. I just wanted to give you some eye candy for you to peruse at your leisure.

http://s1011.photobucket.com/albums/af239/DisneyDean/Disney%20Hawaii/

--- Disney Dean

The Grand Californian Hotel at The Disneyland Resort

2009-08-03T19:07:47-05:00

Although many have picked on and torn apart Disney’s California Adventure Theme Park ever since it opened back in February 2001, I would have a hard time imagining anyone criticizing The Grand Californian Hotel...at least not for any legitimate reasons! Styled in the Arts & Crafts tradition, it is truly a class act; very few details were overlooked in its creation. Many times I have walked through its entry doors and thought, “Thank goodness they didn’t cut corners here!” And if they did, it surely doesn’t show. Here is the concept art that was distributed in the 1996 publicity packets for DCA:

One of the first things that you notice as you pull up is a classic 1932 Cadillac. This antique beauty has been used in Hollywood in a number of films and TV shows including “Charmed,” “The X-Files,” “Annie,” “13 Floors,” and “The Two Jakes.”

The stained-glass automatic opening doors make for a stunning entrance; you immediately feel like you are entering something special.

The lobby itself is breathtaking; although gargantuan in size, its warm colors, antique furnishings, and very friendly customer service make it extremely inviting.

The collection of art and antiques throughout the hotel have been expertly chosen; authentic to the Arts & Crafts theme, and tastefully placed.

Many hotels do a fantastic job of theming the exterior and the lobby space, but when it comes to the rooms...totally cookie cutter. Not so with The Grand Californian. The rooms are comfortable, decorated with style and taste, and just the right amount of Disney without being “in your face.”

The downside to the Grand Californian is the price. Sure, it’s pricey most of the year, but if you’re a saavy shopper, you can often catch a good deal. And what better place to celebrate a special occasion than this grand tribute to The Arts & Crafts Movement?

As for the restaurants...that’s a whole other story. I will be back in the very near future to cover that!

See more Grand Californian photos at my regular website.

Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures' Comic-Con Agenda is Full of "Firsts"

2009-07-17T23:49:21-05:00

Animation greats Hayao Miyazaki and John Lasseter and directors Robert Zemeckis and Tim Burton will take part in their first ever Comic-Con at the San Diego Convention Center July 23-24. The filmmakers will be on hand to help Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures showcase a wide-ranging roster of upcoming films, including 3D juggernauts ALICE IN WONDERLAND, TRON and DISNEY’S A CHRISTMAS CAROL, and animated gems THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, PONYO and the TOY STORY trilogy.

Zemeckis, Burton, Miyazaki and Lasseter will take part in industry panels.
COMIC-CON’S FIRST EVER 3D PANEL — Veteran directors Robert Zemeckis and Tim Burton join TRON producers Sean Bailey and Steve Lisberger on Thurs., July 23 at 11 a.m. for an unprecedented presentation featuring behind-the-scenes filmmaker insights about the highly anticipated 3D adventures DISNEY’S A CHRISTMAS CAROL, ALICE IN WONDERLAND and TRON. In addition to Q&A opportunities with each of the filmmakers, the 90-minute panel will feature never-before-seen concept art, trailers, actual 3D film footage and other Comic-Con-only footage debuts. In a groundbreaking technical feat, this is the first time ever that 3D footage will be shown at Comic-Con. Patton Oswalt will moderate.

ANIMATION PANEL — Animation legends Hayao Miyazaki and John Lasseter join veteran animation directors Lee Unkrich, Kirk Wise, Ron Clements and John Musker on Fri., July 24 at 12:45 p.m. for an animation panel which will highlight upcoming animated films, including Disney•Pixar’s TOY STORY/TOY STORY 2 double feature, Disney•Pixar’s TOY STORY 3, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ half-hour holiday TV special PREP & LANDING, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG and Miyazaki’s PONYO. John Lasseter will host the panel and Patton Oswalt will moderate a group Q&A following the presentation, which will include filmmaker insights, trailers and select film sequences.

ABOUT THE MOVIES
PONYO
From the Academy Award®-winning director and world-renowned Japanese animation legend Hayao Miyazaki comes PONYO, a story inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale “The Little Mermaid.” Already a box-office success in Japan, the story of a young and overeager goldfish named Ponyo (voiced by NOAH CYRUS) and her quest to become human features an outstanding roster of voice talent, including CATE BLANCHETT, MATT DAMON, TINA FEY, FRANKIE JONAS, CLORIS LEACHMAN, LIAM NEESON, LILY TOMLIN and BETTY WHITE. PONYO opens in U.S. theaters on Aug. 14, 2009.

TOY STORY & TOY STORY 2 – DOUBLE FEATURE (In Disney Digital 3D™)
Disney●Pixar’s TOY STORY and TOY STORY 2 return to the big screen in an exciting double feature Oct. 2, 2009—this time in Disney Digital 3D™.

TOY STORY
They’re toys, they talk—at least when people aren’t around—and they’re back… celebrating the return of the “Toy Story” franchise—this time in Disney Digital 3Dä! TOY STORY, the film that started it all, takes moviegoers back to that fantastic fun-filled journey, viewed mostly through the eyes of two rival toys— Woody (voice of TOM HANKS), the lanky, likable cowboy, and Buzz Lightyear (voice of TIM ALLEN), the fearless space ranger. The comically-mismatched duo eventually learn to put aside their differences when circumstances separate them from their owner Andy and they find themselves on a hilarious adventure-filled mission where the only way they can survive is to form an uneasy alliance.

TOY STORY 2
Disney•Pixar’s TOY STORY 2 picks up as Andy heads off to Cowboy Camp, leaving his toys to their own devices. Things shift into high gear when an obsessive toy collector named Al McWhiggin (voice of WAYNE KNIGHT), owner of Al's Toy Barn, kidnaps Woody (voice of TOM HANKS). At Al's apartment, Woody discovers that he is a highly valued collectible from a 1950s TV show called “Woody's Roundup," and he meets the other prized toys from that show - Jessie the cowgirl (voice of JOAN CUSACK), Bullseye the horse and Stinky Pete the Prospector (voice of KELSEY GRAMMER). Back at the scene of the crime, Buzz Lightyear (voice of TIM ALLEN) and the gang from Andy's room – Mr. Potato Head (voice of DON RICKLES), Slinky Dog (voice of JIM VARNEY), Rex (voice of WALLACE SHAWN) and Hamm (voice of JOHN RATZENBERGER) – spring into action to rescue their pal from winding up as a museum piece. The toys get into one predicament after another in their daring race to get Woody home before Andy returns.

DISNEY’S A CHRISTMAS CAROL   (In Disney Digital 3D™ and IMAX® 3D)
DISNEY’S A CHRISTMAS CAROL, a multi-sensory thrill ride re-envisioned by Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Robert Zemeckis, captures the fantastical essence of the classic Dickens tale in a groundbreaking 3D motion picture event. Ebenezer Scrooge (JIM CARREY) begins the Christmas holiday with his usual miserly contempt, barking at his faithful clerk (GARY OLDMAN) and his cheery nephew (COLIN FIRTH). But when the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come take him on an eye-opening journey revealing truths Old Scrooge is reluctant to face, he must open his heart to undo years of ill will before it’s too late. Opens in theaters nationwide on Nov. 6, 2009.

THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG
Walt Disney Animation Studios presents the musical THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG, an animated comedy set in the great city of New Orleans. From the creators of “The Little Mermaid” and “Aladdin” comes a modern twist on a classic tale, featuring a beautiful girl named Tiana (ANIKA NONI ROSE), a frog prince who desperately wants to be human again, and a fateful kiss that leads them both on a hilarious adventure through the mystical bayous of Louisiana. THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG marks the return to hand-drawn animation from the revered team of John Musker and Ron Clements, with music by Oscar®-winning composer Randy Newman. Opens on November 25, 2009 in NY and LA, and on December 11, 2009 nationwide.

PREP & LANDING
PREP & LANDING is ABC’s first television special produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios. The half-hour holiday special reveals the never-before-told tale of an elite unit of Elves known as Prep & Landing. Every Christmas Eve, this high-tech organization ensures that homes around the world are properly prepared for a visit from the Big Guy (aka Santa Claus). After working tirelessly on Prep & Landing for 227 years, an elf named Wayne (voice of Dave Foley) is upset when he doesn’t receive an expected promotion to be the Director of Naughty List Intelligence. Instead, Magee (voice of Sarah Chalke), the North Pole Christmas Eve Command Center Coordinator (NPCECCC for short), partners Wayne with Lanny (voice of Derek Richardson), an idealistic rookie who has an undying enthusiasm for Christmas. During their Christmas Eve mission, Wayne and Lanny encounter unexpected challenges that push them to their limits.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (In Disney Digital 3D™)
Walt Disney Pictures’ magical animated classic BEAUTY AND THE BEAST returns to the big screen in Disney Digital 3D™, introducing a whole new generation to the Disney classic with stunning new 3D imagery. Opening Feb. 12, 2010, the film captures the fantastic journey of Belle (voice of PAIGE O’HARA), a bright and beautiful young woman who’s taken prisoner by a hideous beast (voice of ROBBY BENSON) in his castle. Despite her precarious situation, Belle befriends the castle’s enchanted staff—a teapot, a candelabra and a mantel clock, among others—and ultimately learns to see beneath the Beast’s exterior to discover the heart and soul of a prince. Featuring unforgettable music by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, and an enormously talented vocal ensemble, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST was the first—and only—animated feature to receive a Best Picture nomination from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

ALICE IN WONDERLAND (In Disney Digital 3D™)
From Walt Disney Pictures and visionary director Tim Burton comes an epic 3D fantasy adventure ALICE IN WONDERLAND, a magical and imaginative twist on some of the most beloved stories of all time. JOHNNY DEPP stars as the Mad Hatter and MIA WASIKOWSKA as 19-year-old Alice, who returns to the whimsical world she first encountered as a young girl, reuniting with her childhood friends: the White Rabbit, Tweedledee and Tweedledum, the Dormouse, the Caterpillar, the Cheshire Cat, and of course, the Mad Hatter. Alice embarks on a fantastical journey to find her true destiny and end the Red Queen’s reign of terror. The all-star cast also includes ANNE HATHAWAY, HELENA BONHAM CARTER and CRISPIN GLOVER; Linda Woolverton wrote the screenplay. Capturing the wonder of Lewis Carroll’s beloved “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” (1865) and “Through the Looking-Glass” (1871) with stunning, avant-garde visuals and the most charismatic characters in literary history, ALICE IN WONDERLAND comes to the big screen in Disney Digital 3D™ on March 5, 2010.

TOY STORY 3 (In Disney Digital 3D™)
The creators of the beloved “Toy Story” films re-open the toy box and bring moviegoers back to the delightful world of Woody, Buzz and our favorite gang of toy characters in TOY STORY 3. Lee Unkrich (co-director of “Toy Story 2” and “Finding Nemo”) directs this highly anticipated film, and Michael Arndt, the Academy Award®-winning screenwriter of “Little Miss Sunshine,” brings his unique talents and comedic sensibilities to the proceedings. TOY STORY 3 comes to theaters nationwide in Disney Digital 3D™ on June 18, 2010.

TRON (title not final) (In Disney Digital 3D™)
TRON is a 3D high-tech adventure set in a digital world that’s unlike anything ever captured on the big screen. Sam Flynn (GARRETT HEDLUND), the tech-savvy 27-year-old son of Kevin Flynn (JEFF BRIDGES), looks into his father’s disappearance and finds himself pulled into the same world of fierce programs and gladiatorial games where his father has been living for 25 years. Along with Kevin’s loyal confidant (OLIVIA WILDE), father and son embark on a life-and-death journey across a visually-stunning cyber universe that has become far more advanced and exceedingly dangerous.

--- Disney Dean (Follow me at twitter.com/DisneyDean)

Michael Jackson Disneyland Paris 1992

2009-06-25T19:20:00-05:00

Here's another video - this time of Michael Jackson at Disneyland Paris in 1992. YouTube is so amazing, isn't it?

--- Disney Dean

Michael Jackson at Disneyland 25th Anniversary

2009-06-25T19:07:29-05:00

I'm still so sad about the passing of Michael Jackson today. Captain EO will be missed by billions of people worldwide. It's so surreal - some people are so much larger than life that you assume they'll always be there. My favorite song was Billie Jean, but my favorite video ever was Thriller. I remember when it first came out, and I was just blown away. Anyway, here is a video of Michael Jackson at the Disneyland 25th Anniversary, from a CBS special.If you haven't seen this special, it is in 6 parts, and was lead by Danny Kaye. It is just a joy to watch this. We will miss you, Michael!

--- Disney Dean

Walt Disney on What's My Line

2009-06-24T21:34:05-05:00

I went to my friend Frank's website tonight, and I see that he has put some YouTube video thumbnails up on his site. One of them was from Walt Disney's appearance on the show "What's My Line". I just finished watching the whole thing, and it was an absolute pleasure to watch. What a great find! I could watch it over and over, listening to him talk about Disneyland and the dawn of television. And, at the end - Jerry Lewis makes a pitch for the MDA (Muscular Dystrophy Association) - very cool.

Anyway, here it is - Walt Disney on the show "What's My Line", from November 11th, 1956:

--- Disney Dean

The Pirates Leaque at The Magic Kingdom

2009-06-24T17:53:10-05:00

I am so excited about the upcoming addition of "The Pirates League," setting sail one day before my birthday. The Pirates League opens on June 29th, 2009, and could be considered the counterpart to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique (which is awesome, by the way).

My son is going to flip the next time we go to Walt Disney World. He is a huge pirate fan, and loves the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. I can't wait to bring him to this. My daughter was dressed up like Belle for our last trip. And, considering that it was during Tropical Storm Faye, it was just a tad windy. By the end of the day, she ended up looking more like "Dog the Bounty Hunter" than Belle. You should have seen the looks that we received when people were trying to figure out what was 'going on' with her hair! I swear one mom actually moved her daughter away from ours because she didn't know what to make of it. It was funny because she still had the hair extensions in her hair, but had taken off the dress hours earlier because it was "scratchy". We will never forget it! You can actually see it in somewhat rough shape in my profile picture on Twitter. It got even scarier after that. Anyway, I digress from the main subject at hand - PIRATES!

Here is the press release from Disney:

Calling all scoundrels, rogues and ne’er-do-wells – Captain Jack and the crew of the Black Pearl want you.

Starting in late June, the Pearl drops anchor in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom for The Pirates League, recruiting and training Walt Disney World guests of all ages in the scurrilous ways of buccaneers.

Each guest checking in at the plunder-filled pirate’s lair gets an official pirate name. Then it’s off to Muster Station for applications of beards and eye patches, scarves and scars, earrings and gold teeth – all done with the savvy skill of a veteran pirate who shares his own tales of sea-sailing adventures.

After the new buccaneers recite a sacred pirate oath, they are officially part of Captain Jack’s motley crew, leaving their old identities behind. Past a hidden portal and into the treasure room, the shipmates have their “pirate portrait” taken before being turned loose on an unsuspecting Adventureland – and no doubt feeling right at home at the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction.

Guests can choose from three daily pirate packages:

First Mate Package: Includes bandana; choice of facial effects; scars; tattoos; fake teeth; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace; one 5x7-inch photo; and personalized pirate oath -- $49.95 plus tax.

Empress Package: Includes bandana; shimmering makeup; face gem; tattoos; nail polish; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace; one 5x7-inch photo; and personalized pirate oath -- $49.95 plus tax.

Captains Package: Includes choice of costume/outfit from selection; choice of facial effects; scars; tattoos; fake teeth; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace; three 5x7-inch photos; and personalized pirate oath -- $124.95 plus tax.

Newly donned swashbucklers can test their pirate prowess on the streets of Adventureland where they search for clues and discover treasures. And for mateys who need a little more training, learn the secrets for survival by the captain himself during “Captain Jack Sparrow’s Pirate Tutorial.”

Boys, girls and grownups ready for the pirate life can start the process by calling 407/WDW-CREW beginning May 11. For more information about The Pirates League, visit disneyworld.com/crew.

There is another great story regarding this at the Orlando Sentinel - always awesome folks!

Also, check out the page on the Walt Disney World Resort website - arrrrr

--- Disney Dean

The At-Large Disney Fan

2009-06-24T15:44:58-05:00

I am proud and excited to welcome my friend Frank to the world of blogging! Earlier today, we worked on getting his site up and running, and adding some customization, and I'm sure you are going to love it! Frank and I became friends on Twitter, and interestingly enough, we share the same birthday! I think I speak for a lot of my friends on Twitter, when I say it's awful easy to become friends with him. He is funny (former stand-up comic), family-oriented, and really cares about people. Frank will be sharing his thoughts on Disney, and will share his thoughts on being morbidly obese as well. We can all be along for the ride while Frank strives to improve his health, and also offer all the support we can to help him do that! From reading the first few posts on his site, I think you'll agree he is going to be sharing a lot of great insight.

Please join me in welcoming The At-Large Disney Fan to the world of Blogging! I already have a link to him up on MyDisneyBlog, and I hope you will consider adding a link to his site as well. While you're at it, you might want to comment on his blog, or follow him on Twitter - if you know of some cool customization ideas through 'blogger', maybe you want to connect with him to share what you've learned. I don't know as much about blogger as I'd like, so we could use the tips!

Good luck, Frank, and...welcome to the blogosphere! :)

--- Your Friend Disney Dean

G-Force Arrives July 24th, 2009

2009-06-24T10:25:00-05:00

As the proud parents of 3 marvelous Guinea Pigs (as well as 3 cats, 2 kids and 1 mouse), we are so excited to see the movie G-Force, from Walt Disney Pictures. It looks like a fantastic movie, having seen it in previews at the movie theater, and our kids really took notice. They can't wait for the movie, either! Well, we won't have to wait too much longer, as it is released on July 24th, 2009.

I'm a little late in getting the poster on here, but better late than never, right? It's all Twitter's fault, by the way! :)

I will post some production images and perhaps a video later today.

--- Disney Dean

Los Angeles Lakers Victory Parade at Disneyland

2009-06-18T19:31:17-05:00

A fun video of Kobe Bryant at Disneyland. Looks like he's having a great time! Of course, who wouldn't hae a great time at DISNEYLAND!! I think it's cool that the family riding with him was picked out of a crowd!

Celebrating the best in basketball, the Disneyland Resort saluted the 2009 World Champion Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday with a victory parade down Main Street U.S.A, in Disneyland park. Kobe Bryant, MVP of the recent NBA Finals, smiled and waved to fans as he rode on a float to represent the Lakers in the special, celebration parade.

Some favorite Disney characters joined the magical parade as Disneyland guests cheered for the Lakers and their 15th NBA championship. The Lakers defeated the Orlando Magic to win the title in a “Fairytale Series” that matched up teams located near Disneyland Resort, in Anaheim, and Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando.

“It’s like a dream come true to be here and celebrate at Disneyland, coming down Main Street U.S.A. with all the fans cheering,” Bryant said after the parade. “It’s a tremendous honor to represent my team.”

The presidents of the two Resorts, Ed Grier at Disneyland and Meg Crofton at Walt Disney World, made a friendly wager on the NBA Finals. On Thursday, Meg Crofton fulfilled her pledge by donning a pair of Lakers’ purple and gold Mickey Mouse ears and walking down Main Street, U.S.A., in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.

Each of the Resorts also turned the lights of their respective castles to the team colors of the Lakers and the Magic, in celebration of the historic pairing. Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland park was glowing with Lakers purple and gold during the NBA Finals and will stay that way through Thursday night.

“I heard there was a little competition with Disneyland and Disney World and we won,” Kobe Bryant said, “so our colors are staying up a little bit longer.”

Two of the many Lakers fans at Disneyland on Thursday were selected to ride the Matterhorn Bobsleds with Bryant after the parade. David Guerrero and his son Jonathan, 4, of Pomona, are Annual Passport holders and they came to Disneyland in their team jerseys to celebrate the Lakers’ World Championship.

“They just picked us out of the crowd and said, ‘Do you want to ride the Matterhorn with Kobe?’ I’m shaking, this is so exciting,” David Guerrero said as Jonathan jumped up and down. “In Southern California, being a Disney fan and a Lakers fan, it just goes together and that’s why we wanted to be here today.”

The Disneyland Resort victory parade provided yet another reason for dancing in the streets as Disney Parks asks guests, "What Will You Celebrate?" in 2009. Guests are celebrating birthdays, graduations, engagements and more at Disney Parks and they are utilizing an unprecedented offer good throughout 2009 – the opportunity to visit a theme park at Disneyland or Walt Disney World Resort free on their birthdays.*

The summer of celebration continues at Disneyland Resort with special vacation offers and Summer Nightastic! The exciting, after-dark entertainment includes a new fireworks spectacular, "Magical," starring Dumbo the flying elephant; Tinker Bell's "pixie magic" in "Disney's Electrical Parade"; and sensational new characters and special effects in "Fantasmic!" Residents of Southern California can purchase the Summer Fun Pass and visit the parks on three days for $99.** Guests who pay for a three-night vacation package get an extra two nights free for arrivals through September 26, 2009.+ For details, visit www.disneyland.com and www.disneyland.com/summer

*No cash refunds or credits will be given. Valid ID including proof of birth date required at ticket booth. Visit disneybirthdaytreat.com for details and to register your birthday.
**Must provide proof of residency within Zip codes 90000-93599 and 21000-22999. Tickets valid 45 days from first use and first use must occur on or before 8/23/09. Tickets blocked out on 7/4/09.
+Must book by 8/11/09. Number of packages allocated for this offer is limited. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Walt Disney Travel Company CST: 1022229-50, NVST No. 2006-0198.

Thanks so much to Disney for sending the video and the press release! Sure appreciate it!

--- Disney Dean

Disney and ASUS Launch Netbook Computer for Kids

2009-06-17T10:51:32-05:00

Disney Consumer Products (DCP) and ASUS, maker of the pioneering Eee PC™ netbook, have collaborated to develop the Disney Netpal, a netbook computer for children that’s fun, web-safe and easy to use. Developed with parents and kids in mind, the Disney Netpal by ASUS is durable, with a reinforced mechanical design, and offers a truly magical and engaging computing experience with a unique Disney user interface. Features include more than 40 robust parental control options, an 8.9-inch LCD display, Wi-Fi capabilities, Windows XP Home, and kid-friendly software featuring Disney characters and icons in stunning visual environments. Browsers and email have extra filters to assure that parents are able to control online safety and content for their children, and can easily select with whom their children can correspond via email. The Disney Magic Desktop “gadget tray” offers a creatively designed 2D menu displaying Disney-themed email, Disney-themed browser and a robust suite of Disney-themed parental control options.

With a user interface that is incredibly easy to use for both kids and parents, from package to set-up in four simple steps, the Disney Netpal will be available in late July in two models with prices based on features (see graphic below for Netpal feature comparisons). The Disney Netpal by ASUS is designed for kids ages 6-12. Retailers include Toys”R”Us and Amazon.com, and the suggested retail price is $349.99. Carrying cases will also be available separately.

“Today’s kids are a digital generation,” said Chris Heatherly, head of Disney’s Toymorrow team and VP of Toys and Consumer Electronics for Disney Consumer Products. “Parents are comfortable with their kids using the Internet, but they want to be assured that their kids are having a safe online experience. The Disney Netpal, designed together by ASUS and our Disney Toymorrow team, is a no-compromise device. There are plenty of terrific features and fun applications designed just for kids, but parents have ultimate control over the experience, with the power to set limits on how their kids are using the PC.”

Disney’s Toymorrow team is an internal group of Disney inventors, designers, engineers, researchers and product development experts. The Toymorrow team meets several times a year to brainstorm and develop new products and product concepts that focus on the convergence of toys and digital media in exciting, fun and creative ways.

ASUS is an established leader in the netbook category and is widely credited with launching the netbook craze, with nearly 7 million Eee PC™ netbooks sold to date.

“We’re proud to be involved in the creation of this very unique netbook for kids,” said Eric Chen, Vice President of ASUS' Systems Business Group. “The Disney Netpal is creatively designed in a way that truly keeps the Disney magic alive, and its state-of-the-art features make it an excellent choice for kids and families.”

Disney Netpal By ASUS Is Easy: Kid-friendly Disney Magic Desktop, Applications and Widgets
The Disney Magic Desktop installed on the Disney Netpal by ASUS is an easy-to-use interface specifically tailored to kids, with an intuitive visual interface and instructions that make it easy for kids to operate the computer. Right out of the box, the Disney browser launches numerous kid-friendly Disney websites for kids to explore. The Disney Magic Desktop features a 2D “gadget tray” that displays bold visual icons for easy access to applications. Rounding off the Disney Netpal by ASUS’ fun, kid-friendly features are a collection of 15 easily-accessible widgets, including a stopwatch, digital memo pad, which inserts “reminder notes” on the Disney Magic Desktop, and a calculator.

Disney Netpal By ASUS Is Fun, Customizable And Colorful
The Disney Netpal by ASUS features two choices of stylishly designed lids; Disney Princess Pink boasts beautiful pink florals and Disney Magic Blue cleverly displays rows of miniature Mickey Mouse icons. Kids can dress their desktops with more than 10 customizable themes inspired by popular characters from Disney’s and Disney∙Pixar’s most popular franchises, including Cars, Club Penguin, Disney Classic Characters, Disney Fairies, Disney Princess, Vintage Mickey Mouse, Toy Story and WALL-E. Themes that appeal to slightly older kids, such as Hannah Montana and JONAS The Series styles, are also available. Favorite character icons can be attached to email addresses.

Additional Disney-developed applications include Disney Mix for music and media management, and Disney Pix for photo customization and organization. The Disney Pix application features fun Disney Bobblehead software, which lets kids insert images of their faces on top of bodies, download them into videos and postcards and play wacky moving dance scenes, for hours of fun. The Radio Disney widget streams real-time music and lets kids simultaneously submit song requests, if they wish. The Disney Netpal by ASUS also includes a driving game, number game, memory game and photo scrapbook.

Disney Netpal By ASUS is Optimized for Web-Safety and Sports a Sleek Durable Design
The Disney Netpal by ASUS is designed to be kid-friendly, both in terms of durability and content permissions. It’s rugged and durable, with a spill-proof keyboard that protects against inadvertent liquid spills. The Disney Netpal by ASUS’ ShockShield data protection guards against data loss when the computer is subject to impact.

The Disney Netpal also allows parents to create a web-safe computing environment with 40 parental control options. Parents can pre-select email correspondence options, browsers, the websites their kids visit and the programs they use. These permissions can also be scheduled on a calendar, providing parents with a convenient, automated means of granting access on the days and times that they choose. Parents can also pull up data to determine where children spent time, and for how long. Additional websites can be added for access, but only if the parent approves and submits the request within the password-protected system.

Specifications
Model   Disney Netpal by ASUS MK90H     Disney Netpal by ASUS MK90 – exclusively at Toys”R”Us
Operating System        Genuine Windows® XP Home        Genuine Windows® XP Home
Display 8.9” LED-backlit WSVGA screen (1024x600)        8.9” LED-backlit WSVGA screen (1024x600)
CPU     Intel® ATOM N270        Intel® ATOM N270
WLAN    802.11 b/g/n    802.11 b/g/n
Memory DDR2 SO-DIMM 1GB        DDR2 SO-DIMM 1GB
Storage 160GB HDD       16GB SSD
Interface       1 x VGA port (D-sub 15-pin for external monitor)
3 x USB 2.0 ports
1 x LAN RJ-45
2 x audio jacks: Headphone / Mic-in     1 x VGA port (D-sub 15-pin for external monitor)
3 x USB 2.0 ports
1 x LAN RJ-45
2 x audio jacks: Headphone / Mic-in
Camera 0.3 M Pixel     0.3 M Pixel
Reader MMC and SD (SDHC supported)     MMC and SD (SDHC supported)
Audio   Hi-definition audio CODEC
Built-in stereo speakers
Analog Mic      Hi-definition audio CODEC
Built-in stereo speakers
Analog Mic
Battery 4200mAh Polymer, 5hrs* 4200mAh Polymer, 5hrs*
Dimensions      248mm (W) x 173mm (D) x 28.7mm (H)      248mm (W) x 173mm (D) x 28.7mm (H)
Weight 1.2kg with battery      1kg with battery
Casing Colors   Princess Pink, Magic Blue       Princess Pink, Magic Blue

*Subject to system configuration and usage.
Note: Specifications are subject to change without prior notice. Please visit www.asus.com for more details.

Thanks to Disney Consumer Products for the information!

--- Disney Dean

Best Disney Podcasts

2009-06-16T19:45:21-05:00

I just love all my friends on Twitter! Today, I asked the following question "What Disney Podcast(s) could you absolutely not live without". I asked the question for a couple reasons. First of all, I am in awe of ALL the people doing the Podcasts. It is very time consuming, and there is so much heart that goes into each and every Podcast. Second, I wanted to draw attention to some of the various podcasts, because I don't know about all of them, and I'm sure there are others that don't as well. I honestly have just started to get into listening to Podcasts. What fun they are, and I am finding something that I love out of all the Podcasts I've listened to so far. You are all amazing, fantastic people, and I hope you keep up the great work!!

@bobaloo000 WDW Today and MouseStation are the two I listen to.
@DisFanReview As always i am late to the party! Not a podcast, But DisFanReview is on YouTube! www.youtube.com/disneyfanreview
@DisneyGeekDad I must have missed your question I would have voted for MouseStation sandwiched between WDW Radio and WDW Today.
@DisneyDean ALL of them - really like MouseStation too!
@justmikeyhrc AllAbouttheMouse WDWToday WDWRadio MagicCityMayhem and about 6 more. 140 chars isn't enough!!
@magic0214 I CANT LIVE WITHOUT LAUGHINGPLACE PODCAST> BEST PODCAST EVER!
@tiggerlover75 Window to the Magic! Cant live without this Podcast! Its the one I go to when I need a Disney fix!
@KyleJDuffield and window to the magic @wttm
@Copy_Pixie Definitely @wttm I love how immersive it is... totally transports me from my desk to Disneyland :-) (Also love @insidethemagic )
@mccato 1. Netcot 2. WDW Today
@jimmyrhythm WDW Radio, Netcot and Inside The Magic.
@MichaelRemy Ah yes, forgot the DIS Unplugged. Thank you.
@cherylp3 wdwtoday and wdwradio (although I need to catch up on that)
@NDM_1 The podcasts that I regularly return to are Netcot, DisUnplugged and WDW Radio Show. My mood dictates which one comes first.
@KyleJDuffield inside the magic @insidethemagic
@mattboom Inside The Magic @insidethemagic
@grumpwurst WDW Radio, WDW Today, Disney Dudes, Those Darn Cats, @insidethemagic, @wttm
@MichaelRemy WDW Radio Show, WDW Today, All About the Mouse, WDW News Today, and Inside the Magic. I think that's it.
@Wishes69 hi there I listen to 'Character Breakfast' pod cast. It gives all the news and rumours from the parks.
@jenlar The only two I listen to every week are @loumongello 's WDW Radio Show and @wdwnt 's WDW News Today. Both are great!
@sambycat besides the obvious two? AATM OR Disney tidbits
@_aurora1982 Be Our Guest is number one, but WDW Radio is in second place!
@WickedKaren Disney Dudes Podcast and Those Darn Cats Podcast are the ones for me!!
@cemushr I follow 35 Disney podcasts for my weekly blog update, but, if I had to pick, WDW Today & WDW Radio are my mandatory listens.
@Lauraldawn I hate to admit this, but I have never listened to a disney podcast. (hanging head in shame) or really any podcast
@duckyislost Be Our Guest Podcast, WDWtoday, WDWradio, DisUnplugged
@Nokaoi5 WDW Radio Show!
@timweston WDW Radio Show and WDW Today
@gdpinvestigator WedWayRadio, WDWNewsToday, and DisneyPincast
@disney4ever WDW Radio Show, WDW Today!
@MomMaven WDWRadio with @loumongello is my favorite.
@disneyparkmedia WDW Today!
@pj4life WDW Today.

Again, I would recommend checking out all of these podcasts, and more! If you run across any more, please let me know by email, in the comments or on my Twitter page @DisneyDean

Thanks everyone, and great job! I will update the list if more Twitter comments come in!

--- Disney Dean - check me out on Twitter at @DisneyDean

What is Your Dream Disney Parks Job?

2009-06-15T09:59:53-05:00

I asked the following question on Monday, June 15, 2009, through Twitter, and here are the fantastic responses. The first responses are at the bottom, with the newest ones on top. Isn't this outstanding? What a lot of fun to see some of the responses, and to see some of the humor in some of the posts. I'll update the list if more responses come in. Thanks everyone! Oh, and if you're not following the people below on Twitter, just click on the name to go to their Twitter page and start following! They are all absolutely outstanding people :)

@alisonsyoung I just thought of one more event planner for disney weddings and events!!
@MrBrettYoung a VIP tour guide! It would be an amazing experience to take people around to each of the attractions and be able to go on them!
@M_Bischof I want to be a receiver at Disney. Someone has to accept delivery of all those awesome souvenirs and yummy treats.
@JHSaunders Monorail pilot - VROOOMMMM
@khelmstetter I want a plaid vest.
@HOOPWATCH easiest question I have had in days: Skipper on The Jungle Cruise.
@StephenChampion Just saw the question, my answer is split. It would be attractions, but either Jungle Cruise, or the Great Movie Ride.
@alisonsyoung I would work in production for their shows!!
@ROBONICS95 Hmmm... perhaps tour guide for me. Meet interesting people, talk Disney all day and see some exclusive areas in the parks.
@MarkKeren I have to agree with my wife. It is easier to say what I wouldn't do. I wouldn't want to be the guy that cleans up kid puke.
@magic0214 either be peter pan walk around or in in Dream along with mickey
@disney4ever Anyone choose monorail pilot yet?I always wanted to do that.Epcot to TTC route.And u see the smiles of your passengers up front!
@disneykymie if Im honest, my no1 job would be fur-I know not gr8 conditions, but bein paid 2hug every1...what could be better!
@coryholland I would be hercules. But a bald version of him!
@leighmichele I would be President and CEO of Disney - That way I could bring back Mr. Toad :) and afford to live in Celebration
@theserge I would be a tour guide. It's so much fun doing it for free with friends and family, it would be great to get paid for it!
@DisneyFrankness I was a singer so I would like to be in the Barbershop Quarter in Main St USA
@tiffiniholland I wud like 2b 1 of the Princesses! It wud b so much fun 2 see the looks on kids' faces wen they meet u especially 4 the 1st time
@dwsandy I would love to be the ride operator at "It's a Small World" I love that they wave to everyone as each boat is launched. :-)
@ZachDisney engineer in disney world railroad would love to drive that
@WickedKaren I would be a parks and wedding photographer, it would be the best thing to capture the MAGIC for people in pictures.
@_zeke27 The random person on main street USA that people ask where such and such is. Disneyland, CA.
@DisneyDean For some reason, I'm dying to work one of the popcorn stands outside Cinderella Castle
@cemushr Either a member of the Voices of Liberty or a Dapper Dan. That's got to be so much fun to do that!
@2DaWesternSky I'd be Goofy at Disneyland
@coasterswim not sure if it's considered working "at" a Disney park, but I'd love to be an imagineer that designs rides
@thoughtbeast I would want to work somewhere cool (temperature wise) like Tree of Life or the Haunted Mansion.
@DisneyFoodBlog I would have loved to be on the dream team last year! How incredible to give someone a dream fastpass or night in the castle...
@disneylandmom I would like to work in Fantasyland. That's where all the kids love to be. And I love to see their excitement.
@Charlie_Z Have to agree with my father-in-law... I want to drive a train on the WDW Railroad!
12 minutes ago from web in reply to DisneyDean
@kathyholmes Disneyland Guest Services handling the APs - the CMs said they loved their jobs there.
NDM_1 Love the wit here: RT @KyleJDuffield: @DisneyDean the haunted mansion I would die to work there.
@MEB103 I would want to be Tinker Bell.....and spread my magic all over the MK :)
@thedisneychick definitely an imagineer - bonus points if i can work at epcot
@TraciLeigh I always wanted to be Snow White - I think being a princess every day & making dreams come true would be amazing!
@EatWatchRead Jungle Cruise, I'd really be super sarcastic
@WDWdreaming If I could work any position at #wdw: Haunted Mansion or ToT greeter. Then I could have a bad day and no one would realize it!
@tiffiniholland is there a position where u just ride all the rides, eat at all the places free, get free merchandise, and stay for free?
@mefries Imagineer for sure!
@Kerenmark Tough question! I think it's easier to say which job I WOULDN'T want - a "Small World" ride operator!
@NDM_1 When I was little I wanted to be a can-can girl in the Diamond Horseshoe Revue.
@NDM_1 I would love to be a princess, but I might be better suited as Tinker bell. She is quite a bit more spunky.
@KyleJDuffield the haunted mansion I would die to work there.
@Bodie28 I would love to help everyone drag their bodies to the dead center of the room at the Haunted Mansion. :))
@SimplyAdorableB I wanna be the screener who check's the photos from Splash Mountain before they are displayed! hehehe
@druantia I'd work either in the Wilderness Lodge (doing anything!) or the Haunted Mansion (being spooky).
@MomsPanelErin Jungle Cruise driver!
@FarfsGirl ideally, i would want to be a special events planner or do public relations. I'm great @ both 10 yr career in NYC to show 4 it
@gdpinvestigator I would love to work crowd control at a parade on Main Street
@jenlar Imagineer. It's why I majored in engineering. I think that it would be fun to lead the big backstage tours, too.
@akaretas in the accounting department. I would love to see how much money they bring in daily!
@futuredisneyCEO hotel manager!!!:D
@briererows guest relations at the MK so that I could do some tours and help guests with questions in a weather controlled environment.
@MichaelRemy I, like most others, would love to be a Monorail driver. Especially on the EPCOT loop.
@HitchhikinGhst I didn't even blink before typing "Jungle Cruise skipper."
@DrkBlue Guest Relations MK :)
@CarylsRealm definitely in the "art" department! :) You?
@wissa Test Track Technician, of course! oh wait... scratch that.
@bobaloo000 hmmm CEO or dumbo CM if i was ceo id sell ABC
@disneykymie roadsweeper on Main St,so I could mingle+help out all the happy people with their inquiries+take photos with their cameras etc
@sambycat I'd be snow white!
@Lauraldawn Or working at the Christmas store because really - those people are so nice. We spent hours there!
@Lauraldawn Best job - not sure what it's called, but one of the floaters who helps where needed. So fun.
@YaBoy_Q I've actually had the pleasure to work on Kilimanjaro Safaris @ DAK as a CP a few yrs ago. I loved it!!
@timweston ideally I'd love to be an Imagineer. If I couldn't do that, I'd like to be a programmer analyst
@disneyparkmedia I want to work in Information Technology management.

--- Disney Dean - catch me on twitter at @DisneyDean

I totally blame it on Twitter!

2009-06-15T09:26:57-05:00

First of all, a huge apology to readers of MyDisneyBlog for the lapse in posts lately. I have been feeling just awful about it lately. The problem is that I am addicted to Twitter! I never thought it would happen, but my goal over the summer is to be able to strike a balance between the two types of media - blogging (MyDisneyBlog.com) and micro-blogging (Twitter). I love both of these so much, and I hope I didn't let anyone down for not posting regularly.

The one thing I've learned from blogging and from being on Twitter, is that the Disney community is the most awesome on planet Earth. I am honored to have gotten to know so many of you, and can't wait to meet even more. If you have ideas for MyDisneyBlog, please let me know.

Thanks for your understanding and patience :)

--- Disney Dean

Disneyland vs Walt Disney World - who will win?

2009-06-05T21:30:48-05:00

This is a real cute video from Disney Parks. I just love how they're pitting Disneyland vs Walt Disney World due to the Lakers and the Magic playing in the NBA Finals. Will be fun to see what happens with this. Hope you enjoy the video! Oh, and who would you like to win - Disneyland or Walt Disney World ;)

--- Disney Dean

D23 Expo Set for September 10th - 13th, 2009

2009-06-03T22:37:23-05:00

Man, I would flip to go to this, but we will be gearing up for our trip to Hawaii in September. If you are planning on attending the D23 Expo - I would love to hear from you! Or, if you can't go - I would love to hear from you as well. Just put a note in the comments section below.

---------

Disney fans will be given unprecedented access to never-before-seen movies, TV shows, park experiences, collectibles and more from Sept. 10 to Sept. 13 at the Anaheim Convention Center when Disney and D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans present the first-ever D23 EXPO.

Tickets to the D23 EXPO are available beginning today at http://www.D23Expo.com. Admission includes access to all experiences and entertainment at the D23 EXPO and can be purchased for single days or for the full four days of festivities. Admission is discounted for members of D23.

“We hope this will be the ultimate event for the multitude of fans who have been so instrumental in Disney’s success,” said Disney President and CEO Bob Iger. “The D23 Expo represents the finest in Disney entertainment from across our great company and will offer a one-of-a-kind, unforgettable experience for people of all ages to enjoy.”

Anaheim Mayor Curt Pringle added, “The upcoming D23 Expo at the Anaheim Convention Center will serve as an exciting opportunity to present Anaheim to the millions of Disney enthusiasts around the world. For the thousands of inaugural-year D23 Expo attendees who will visit our city in September, this will be a special and a memorable time in the birthplace of Walt Disney’s original theme park. It is a great honor for Anaheim and the Anaheim Convention Center to host this event.”

Among the centerpiece events of the D23 EXPO will be an extraordinary, exclusive opportunity to get early glimpses of several all-new Disney feature films. Only at the D23 EXPO will guests preview a wide range of upcoming movie events, including The Princess and the Frog, Rapunzel, Disney’s A Christmas Carol, Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland, TRON, Toy Story 3, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time and The Sorcerer’s Apprentice. Walt Disney Pictures will present these special sneak peeks in a state-of-the-art cinema built especially for the D23 EXPO.

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts will take D23 EXPO guests behind the scenes to explore the rich legacy and exciting future of Disney’s theme parks and vacation destinations worldwide. Highlights will include a special look at what’s being imagineered for the future of Disney’s California Adventure, a peek behind closed doors at the amazing new technologies defining today’s and tomorrow’s Disney theme park experience, and the opportunity to meet and hear from the Imagineers, Cast Members and key Disney Parks and Resorts executives who create lasting memories for millions every year.

In many different ways, the D23 EXPO will explore the history and heritage of Walt Disney and the company he founded more than 80 years ago. The D23 EXPO will be home to the 2009 Disney Legends Awards – a 22-year tradition that pays tribute to the talented men and women who have made indelible contributions to Disney entertainment. This year’s recipients will be honored at a ceremony on Saturday, Sept. 12, marking the first time the prestigious event has been held off Disney property.

In an extraordinary exhibition designed especially for the D23 EXPO, an incredible collection of classic and contemporary Disney props, artifacts and costumes will be accessible to the public for the first time ever. “Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives” brings together such amazing pieces as the fully restored, 11-foot model of the Nautilus from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea; the stunning, jewel-encrusted book used in the opening moments of Sleeping Beauty; and other rare surprises from throughout Disney’s history. Ranging from the original Mickey Mouse Club and the musical classic Mary Poppins to recent hits like Pirates of the Caribbean and High School Musical, the “Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives” is a never-before-experienced exhibition that’s a D23 EXPO exclusive.

The D23 EXPO spotlight will also shine on Disney Channel's brightest stars in a can't miss-special event. There will also be an ESPN Sports Lounge, live broadcasts from Radio Disney, and a preview of ABC's new fall primetime shows, details of which will be announced in the coming weeks at www.D23Expo.com.

For Disney fans who want to take home part of the magic, Disney Consumer Products will offer myriad opportunities to do just that. Only at the D23 EXPO will guests be able to walk through the eight-room “Disney Dream Home,” celebrate the holidays Disney-style, see fine art created before their eyes, learn about Disney Fairy Tale Weddings, experience Disney couture fashion shows, meet and hear from the authors of a dazzling array of Disney books, prepare for trick-or-treating with the latest Disney Store Halloween costumes, and more ... all under one roof.

The D23 EXPO also will be home to the “Disney Dream Store,” where guests will find exclusive D23 EXPO merchandise and collectibles; the Disney pin-trading headquarters; and much more, including the chance to build your own Mouse ears.

Showcasing Disney’s appeal to fans of every generation, the D23 EXPO has created a multi-layered experience: Avid Disney enthusiasts can attend dozens of specially created panels and celebrity-speaker events, details of which will be announced over the next several weeks. Younger Disney fans, meanwhile, will be able to experience special interactive play areas, meet their favorite Radio Disney DJs broadcasting live, watch “Princess makeover” demos from the Bibbidi-Bobbidi Boutique, and have fun in the Baby Einstein play area. Together, families can enjoy the Disney Crafts Center and learn about scrapbooking, Disney-style.

The D23 Collectors’ Forum will present a wide range of options for collectors to show and sell their Disney memorabilia, and those interested in exhibiting can visit www.D23Expo.com for more information.

Fans also will be able to view and even take part in the first-ever Disney Fan Art Gallery, which will include the finalists in the Donald Duck 75th Anniversary Portrait Contest, as well as a one-of-a-kind fan art show. Full details and contest rules can be found at www.D23Expo.com or www.disney.com/D23.

All activities at the D23 EXPO are included in single- and four-day admissions, including the “50 and Fabulous Film Festival,” which honors three classic Disney movies that are celebrating their golden anniversaries this year. Sleeping Beauty, The Shaggy Dog and Darby O’Gill and the Little People, all originally released in 1959, will be presented on the big screen, one movie each evening, for Disney fans of all ages to enjoy together. Also featured at the D23 EXPO will be a special screening of Walt Disney Pictures’ upcoming Tinker Bell: Lost Treasure, along with an in-depth exploration of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs: Diamond Edition, which will be released this fall by Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment.

Tickets to the D23 EXPO, which go on sale today, are $37 for a one-day adult admission and $27 for children 3-12. To experience every bit of entertainment and excitement at the D23 EXPO, four-day passes are also available at $111 for adults and $81 for children. Members of D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans will receive a discount on up to four same-day admissions, as well as early entry to each day of the D23 EXPO for themselves and their guests.

Special vacation packages are available at the D23 EXPO website, from both the Walt Disney Travel Company (including Disneyland Resort hotel accommodations, D23 EXPO tickets and theme park admission), and the Anaheim Convention and Visitors’ Bureau, which is offering a limited number of area hotel rooms at special rates to those attending the D23 EXPO.

Many more details about the entertainment, events and special guests that will be part of the first-ever D23 EXPO will be announced in the coming weeks. Fans can keep up with all of the announcements by visiting www.D23EXPO.com, as well as by following “Disney D23” at Twitter and on Facebook.

--- Disney Dean

Handy Manny Measures Up

2009-06-02T22:21:44-05:00

Disney Channel's hit "Handy Manny" character and Wilmer Valderrama, the talented actor who helps bring him to life, unveiledthe new Disney Consumer Products booth at Licensing International Expo 2009 today, TUESDAY, JUNE 2, in Las Vegas. Seen daily during Playhouse Disney programming block, the hit series and its high affinity among preschoolers and parents has inspired Disney Consumer Products to expand its offering in multiple categories including books, toys, apparel, accessories, home furnishings, food, stationary, books and more.

In addition to 29 brand new episodes for its third season, today Disney Channel announced a new short-form series and two primetime specials. "Handy Manny's School for Tools," 20 animated shorts, will begin production this year for a 2010 premiere. In Fall 2009, Disney Channel will present the first of two primetime specials, "Handy Manny's Motorcycle Adventure," which takes viewers along on Manny's exciting and unexpected road trip to his family reunion. The special features four new songs including "Rolling" performed by renowned East Los Angeles rockers Los Lobos. The second primetime special will debut in 2010. The daily series will also introduce 10 new tools: a jackhammer, a power screwdriver, a power socket wrench, a shop vac, a pair of needle nose pliers, a deluxe tool box, a laser level and a trio of crescent wrenches.

A Top 10 player among all series geared towards preschoolers age 2-5, "Handy Manny" is set in a multi-cultural, multi-generational community and follows a curriculum that models problem solving. The Emmy and Imagen Award-nominated series can be seen in over 135 countries and in 23 languages with title translations including "Manny et ses Outils" (France), "Meister Manny's Werkzeugkiste" (Germany), "Manny Tuttofare" (Italy), "Händige Manny" (Sweden), "Manny Manitas" (Spain) and "Otasuke Manii" (Japan). In the fourth quarter of 2008, the series reached over 75 million unduplicated viewers worldwide. Rick Gitelson is executive producer and story editor of "Handy Manny." "Handy Manny" is a production of Nelvana Limited in association with Disney Channel.

Disney Consumer Products and Fisher Price debuted a "Handy Manny" toy line at mass retailers in Fall 2008 and it became a runaway success, winning several prominent awards for the popular Fix-It-Right Tool Truck and the Talkin' Toolbox. New toys for fall 2009 include the Fix-It-Right Manny's Motorcycle and Manny's Workbench.

Beginning this year, Disney Consumer Products is expanding the "Handy Manny" product line with action figures, puzzles, playsets and plush, all new apparel, footwear and sleepwear, home furnishings and décor, bedding, backpacks, party patterns, stationery, greeting cards and new book titles and DVDs.

"Handy Manny" is a featured character at Disney's California Adventure and Disney's Hollywood Studios and appears in the daily "Playhouse Disney Live on Stage!" show at Disney Parks and Resorts around the world. The popular character also stars in "Playhouse Disney Live! On Tour" in two productions touring around the world.

--- Disney Dean

3D Disneyland Resort Paris in Google Earth

2009-05-30T20:11:38-05:00

I know I'm a few months late with this, and a lot of people may already know about it, but DisneyParks has a cool YouTube video showing the addition of Disneyland Resort Paris to Google Earth. I love the music that goes along with the video - a lot of suspense :)

Anyway, here it is! It's a good way to get a Disney "fix" every now and then!

--- Disney Dean

The Magic Triple Mountains

2009-05-30T09:13:37-05:00

I'm so excited - below is the FIRST post from Disney Mike - my 10 year old son. He came up with the title, and the entire blog post and idea by himself. I'm so proud of him!
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There are a gigantic amount of rides at Disney world. My favorite trio of rides is Big Thunder Mountain, Space Mountain, and Splash Mountain. My favorite of them is Space Mountain, an almost pitch dark space shuttle ride. I would check it out on your next visit. You never really know what direction you're going. FUN,FUN,FUN!!!

Next up is shocking Big Thunder Mountain. It is awesome!!! First you go left, then right, then, wait, I'm getting ahead of myself, let me start by what it's about. Imagine being in a run-away train on a giant mountain in the middle of nowhere. Well that's sort of what this ride is about. You NEVER know where you're going because there are giant hills covering the sides of the tracks. This is a definite recommendation.

When I got off Splash Mountain, all I could think about when I was dropping almost straight down and I'm ahead of myself again arent I. Anyway, Splash Mountain is all about brear rabbit, brear fox, brear bear, and happiness. You will hear lots music, you will ride down lots of giant drops, and most importantly, you will be soaked by the end of the ride, so if it's hot outside, GO ON THIS RIDE!!!

Just one more thing, the waits for these rides are soo long. If you are planning on going on them, get some fastpasses. I'll write back with another story. Blog to you later. Bye!!!

--- Disney Mike

I'm Meeting Tinkerbell Tomorrow

2009-05-29T23:07:02-05:00

I'm so excited! I'm meeting the real Tinkerbell (Margaret Kerry) tomorrow, Saturday May 30th. She is going to be doing a fundraiser for the local museum. Here is an embedded video of an interview she just did on our local news station - KBJR. I'm bringing my 6 year old daughter, and we just finished watching Peter Pan. What an unbelievable movie. Our favorite Tinkerbell part was when she was trying to get out of the drawer. We laughed so hard! So hard to believe she will be in little ole' Duluth, MN, but her daughter apparently lives here, and Margaret fell in love with my hometown. What an honor that Tinkerbell spends a lot of time here!

I will have a much larger wrap-up of the event tomorrow - but I wanted to get this out!

--- Disney Dean

First Walt Disney World Park

2009-05-29T22:50:26-05:00

Hey everyone - I just created my first twitter poll! Anyone can take part in the poll - and you don't need to have a Twitter account. I answered that it usually varies with my family. If it were up to me, it would be the Magic Kingdom, but the rest of the family likes to go with a recommendation from TouringPlans.com.

Here is the question, followed by a pie chart of the answers so far. The poll is valid through June 5th, but may be extended if there is enough support.

--- Disney Dean