Thursday, December 23, 2010
Custom Floral Arrangement!
To make the evening even more special, Del Langdale custom made this simply incredible floral arrangement for our table!
Club 33 charger plate with custom made Mouse-ear'd Snowman Cookie!
Part my wonderful evening was a beautiful gift created by Del Langdale, former Disney cast member and designer. Del made these beautiful snowmen cookies by hand and you can see the mouse ears! Wow, we just loved them but they were simply too cute to eat.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Dr. Lee enjoying a holiday dinner with friends at Club 33
I was so grateful to have been invited to return to my old stomping grounds for a beautiful holiday dinner with my friends. We had the most lovely evening, terrific wine wonderful food, and yes, the butternut squash bisque is back on the menu for Winter months. Wow, it's the best! If you're looking at my attire and thinking, 'hmm, shouldn't he have a collared shirt?'. Well, the answer is yes and I was told to be more cautious of the dress code. My advise, if you're going to the club, be sure to check the dress code! I love the ol' club and look forward to dinning there again real soon (with a collared shirt!).
Friday, December 17, 2010
To make you laugh:
Why did Mickey Mouse buy a Telescope......
So he could find his friend Pluto, Ha-Ha
Dr Lee
So he could find his friend Pluto, Ha-Ha
Dr Lee
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Who's number "33rd" follower???
First of all, to all who visit and read this site or blog, Happy Holidays!
Do you know that from Dec.7th last year,2009 to Dec.7th this year,there were 11,541 visits to this blog! Every nite around 9 p.m.,I check to see how many visits there have been the past 24 hours. Normally,the average is 40 per 24 hours,and the most was 346!!!
As you read and visit here,you will notice on the Right side about 2/3 down,an area called "Followers of DR. LEE'S BLOG," I have 32 as of to-day, who will be number 33 on the Club 33 web-site??????
Again, thanks to everyone and again, "Happy Holidays"!!!
DR LEE
Do you know that from Dec.7th last year,2009 to Dec.7th this year,there were 11,541 visits to this blog! Every nite around 9 p.m.,I check to see how many visits there have been the past 24 hours. Normally,the average is 40 per 24 hours,and the most was 346!!!
As you read and visit here,you will notice on the Right side about 2/3 down,an area called "Followers of DR. LEE'S BLOG," I have 32 as of to-day, who will be number 33 on the Club 33 web-site??????
Again, thanks to everyone and again, "Happy Holidays"!!!
DR LEE
D STREET:
"D STREET" in Downtown Disney opened its doors Dec.15,2009. The flagship Vinylmation store has hosted special events ranging from trunk shows and art shows to artist signing, Vinylmation siginings and demonstrations as well as football-inspired tailgate parties.
Did you know?
...Vinymation draws its inspiration from the heart of The Walt Disney Company- storytelling and animation. The root word are Vinylmation is vinyl+animation.
...Local Southern California artist Noah has been a staple of D STREET, from opening day to "World of Color" and, recently, Tron: Legacy.
...More than 1 million Vinylmation figures have been sold across domestic Disney parks.
DR LEE
Did you know?
...Vinymation draws its inspiration from the heart of The Walt Disney Company- storytelling and animation. The root word are Vinylmation is vinyl+animation.
...Local Southern California artist Noah has been a staple of D STREET, from opening day to "World of Color" and, recently, Tron: Legacy.
...More than 1 million Vinylmation figures have been sold across domestic Disney parks.
DR LEE
Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel:
This month, Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel marks 15 years as part of the Disney family. This 15-story building was originally owned by a Japanese company and had been called the Emerald of Anahiem and, later, the Pan Pacific Hotel. In 1995, The Walt Disney Company purchased the hotel and renamed it Disneyland Pacific Hotel, and in 2000 the hotel was given a boardwalk theme and renamed Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel to complement Paradise Pier in Disney California Adventure Park.
DR LEE
DR LEE
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Walt Disney:
"You can dream,create,design and build, but it requires people to make the dream a reality."
On Dec. 5,1901, Walt Disney, one of the founders of The Walt Disney Company, was born in Chicago, III. After a childhood spent in Marceline, Mo., his career led him to Hollywood. His legendary work earned 32 Oscars-more than anyone to date- and countless other awards and accolades.
Walt was a man persistent on achieving his dreams, from a theme park to ground-breaking animation he was truly one of the greatest creative minds of the 20th century.
Although Walt has been gone nearly 45 years, the legacy of the man who gave the world Mickey Mouse and Disneyland continues to live on through the dedication and passion of all of those who work for the Walt Disney Company.
Walt Disney
DR LEE
On Dec. 5,1901, Walt Disney, one of the founders of The Walt Disney Company, was born in Chicago, III. After a childhood spent in Marceline, Mo., his career led him to Hollywood. His legendary work earned 32 Oscars-more than anyone to date- and countless other awards and accolades.
Walt was a man persistent on achieving his dreams, from a theme park to ground-breaking animation he was truly one of the greatest creative minds of the 20th century.
Although Walt has been gone nearly 45 years, the legacy of the man who gave the world Mickey Mouse and Disneyland continues to live on through the dedication and passion of all of those who work for the Walt Disney Company.
Walt Disney
DR LEE
Monday, December 6, 2010
Walt Disney Legacy:
" All your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them."
" Whatever we accomplish is due to the combined effort."
" I think by this time my staff, and young group of executives are convinced that Walt was right. That quality will out. And so I think they're going to stay with that policy. Give the people everything you can give them. Keep the place as clean as you can keep it. Keep it friendly, you know. Make it a real fun place to be. I think they're convinced and I think they'll hang on after... well...after Disney."
WALT DISNEY...
DR LEE
" Whatever we accomplish is due to the combined effort."
" I think by this time my staff, and young group of executives are convinced that Walt was right. That quality will out. And so I think they're going to stay with that policy. Give the people everything you can give them. Keep the place as clean as you can keep it. Keep it friendly, you know. Make it a real fun place to be. I think they're convinced and I think they'll hang on after... well...after Disney."
WALT DISNEY...
DR LEE
Thursday, December 2, 2010
The Mickey Mouse Club :
On Monday afternoon, Oct.3, 1955, a generation of American kids raced home from school, plopped down on their living room floors and waited for their black-in-white TV sets to warm up so they could watch a new show. It wasn't the first kids' show on TV,but they knew this one would be different.
It isn't an exaggeration to say that " The Mickey Mouse Club" forever altered American pop culture. Walt Disney already had the cartoons and animated films and had opened a big amusement park in Anahiem only a few months earlier. But the addition of TV to the corporate vision put a lock on the hearts and minds of American kids that holds fast to this day. For a couple of hundred folks who braved Saturday's bluster to visit the Walt Disney Family Museum in the Presidio, time hasn't stood still, but it hasn't faded from memory either.
Bobby Burgess, Carl "Cubby" O'Brien and Sharon Baird were among the small group of "kids next door" who became the first teenage idols of the TV generation. They may be a bit older these days- Bobby and his wife of 40 years,Kristie, just became grandparents of twins- but they remember their time on the original "Mickey Mouse Club" as if it were yesterday.
There were actually 39 Mouseketeers from the first incarnation of the show, from 1955-58. The host was actor Jimmie Dodd, who wrote many of the songs, including the show's theme song. He was assisted by the show's "Mooseketeer," a burly animator named Roy Williams, who came up with the idea of hats for the kids fitted with Mickey Mouse ears.
Bobby Burgess, among the show's standouts because of his dancing skills,swoon-worthy head of thick hair and constant grin, never really liked wearing "the ears" as he and others still call the hats.
"We had high pompadours in the 50s," he told the Family Museum audience. "And the ears always messed up your hair."
The Mouseketeers themselves became, as Sharon put it, "like a second family,"and we still keep in touch. As kids, Sharon and Annette Funicello were best friends and remain close contact today. Inevitably, the audience wanted to know how Annette was doing and Sharon, who'd seen her in September, was happy to report that her friend, who has multiple sclerosis, remains "as beautiful as ever on the inside and the outside."
Saturday's program included video of the show's opening, still photos of the kids and a clip from the time Cubby played the drums on the show along with his dad, Haskell O'Brien, and older brother Warren. Cubby had started out in the show's Talent Roundup portion but was quickly elevated to the front of almost every group shot you'll ever see of the Mouseketeers, once the show's directors realized he'd pair well with Karen Pendleton.
While some of their cast-mates have had their ups and downs, most of the Mouseketeers have avoided the kind of scandal that seems to dog many pop stars today."My dad was a meatcutter," Bobby says,adding that he grew up in Long Beach, where his family remained even after he became famous on the show.
All remain active in show business. Bobby was not only a regular on "The Lawrence Welk Show" for 21 seasons but is also now hosting the just-renewed reruns that show up in syndicatuion on PBS. He also teaches ballroom dancing at Burgess Cotillion, which he and his wife have operated in Long Beach for nearly 25 years.
Cubby, who now lives in Washington state, remains an in-demand professional drummer. Over the years, he's worked with the Carpenters, Andy Williams, Carol Burnett, Bernadette Peters and,for two seasons, on "The Lawrence Welk Show."
Sharon worked in childern's TV for years. Her small stature made her perfect for wearing animal costumes in shows by sid and Marty Krofft,among others, and she was an onstage assistant to the melon-smashing comic Gallagher for a while. Today she is semiretired and lives in Reno, where she does nails at a salon.
They were no longer kids when Walt Disney died in 1966, but still felt like a death in the family. Sharon was working in Elko, Nev., with her ex-husband and another man in a revue called "Two Cats and a Mouse." When she heard the news about Walt Disney's death, she "cried for hours," she said.
Bobby had had a chance reunion with his mentor only a few months earlier. He happened to be hiking near Devils Postpile National Monument when, coming towards him on the trail was an older man with his head characteristically looking downward. "Mr. Disney?" Bobby saided. The man looked up at him and said, "Mouseketeer Bobby."
Mouseke-tibdit: The Mouseketeers weren't allowed to keep their costumes or ears, but Cubby is said to have the biggest collection of memorabilia,including , he said, "Cubby and Karen (Pendleton) cut-out dolls.
Cubby's dad, the drummer Haskell "Hack" O'Brien, is 96 and lives in San Diego. He's the last surviving Mouseketeers parent.
Bobby has copies of all the Disney movies and, as a kid, named his dog Bambi.
Bobby once got out of a speeding ticket in Los Angeles when the cop recognized him and said he'd let him off if he told him about Annette Funicello.
Host Jimmie Dodd wrote most of the music on the show, including the opening march and the slower-tempo version that closed the show: "Now it's time to say goodbye to all our company. M-I-C- See ya real soon-K-E-Y- Why? Because we like you -M-O-U-S-E."
DR LEE
It isn't an exaggeration to say that " The Mickey Mouse Club" forever altered American pop culture. Walt Disney already had the cartoons and animated films and had opened a big amusement park in Anahiem only a few months earlier. But the addition of TV to the corporate vision put a lock on the hearts and minds of American kids that holds fast to this day. For a couple of hundred folks who braved Saturday's bluster to visit the Walt Disney Family Museum in the Presidio, time hasn't stood still, but it hasn't faded from memory either.
Bobby Burgess, Carl "Cubby" O'Brien and Sharon Baird were among the small group of "kids next door" who became the first teenage idols of the TV generation. They may be a bit older these days- Bobby and his wife of 40 years,Kristie, just became grandparents of twins- but they remember their time on the original "Mickey Mouse Club" as if it were yesterday.
There were actually 39 Mouseketeers from the first incarnation of the show, from 1955-58. The host was actor Jimmie Dodd, who wrote many of the songs, including the show's theme song. He was assisted by the show's "Mooseketeer," a burly animator named Roy Williams, who came up with the idea of hats for the kids fitted with Mickey Mouse ears.
Bobby Burgess, among the show's standouts because of his dancing skills,swoon-worthy head of thick hair and constant grin, never really liked wearing "the ears" as he and others still call the hats.
"We had high pompadours in the 50s," he told the Family Museum audience. "And the ears always messed up your hair."
The Mouseketeers themselves became, as Sharon put it, "like a second family,"and we still keep in touch. As kids, Sharon and Annette Funicello were best friends and remain close contact today. Inevitably, the audience wanted to know how Annette was doing and Sharon, who'd seen her in September, was happy to report that her friend, who has multiple sclerosis, remains "as beautiful as ever on the inside and the outside."
Saturday's program included video of the show's opening, still photos of the kids and a clip from the time Cubby played the drums on the show along with his dad, Haskell O'Brien, and older brother Warren. Cubby had started out in the show's Talent Roundup portion but was quickly elevated to the front of almost every group shot you'll ever see of the Mouseketeers, once the show's directors realized he'd pair well with Karen Pendleton.
While some of their cast-mates have had their ups and downs, most of the Mouseketeers have avoided the kind of scandal that seems to dog many pop stars today."My dad was a meatcutter," Bobby says,adding that he grew up in Long Beach, where his family remained even after he became famous on the show.
All remain active in show business. Bobby was not only a regular on "The Lawrence Welk Show" for 21 seasons but is also now hosting the just-renewed reruns that show up in syndicatuion on PBS. He also teaches ballroom dancing at Burgess Cotillion, which he and his wife have operated in Long Beach for nearly 25 years.
Cubby, who now lives in Washington state, remains an in-demand professional drummer. Over the years, he's worked with the Carpenters, Andy Williams, Carol Burnett, Bernadette Peters and,for two seasons, on "The Lawrence Welk Show."
Sharon worked in childern's TV for years. Her small stature made her perfect for wearing animal costumes in shows by sid and Marty Krofft,among others, and she was an onstage assistant to the melon-smashing comic Gallagher for a while. Today she is semiretired and lives in Reno, where she does nails at a salon.
They were no longer kids when Walt Disney died in 1966, but still felt like a death in the family. Sharon was working in Elko, Nev., with her ex-husband and another man in a revue called "Two Cats and a Mouse." When she heard the news about Walt Disney's death, she "cried for hours," she said.
Bobby had had a chance reunion with his mentor only a few months earlier. He happened to be hiking near Devils Postpile National Monument when, coming towards him on the trail was an older man with his head characteristically looking downward. "Mr. Disney?" Bobby saided. The man looked up at him and said, "Mouseketeer Bobby."
Mouseke-tibdit: The Mouseketeers weren't allowed to keep their costumes or ears, but Cubby is said to have the biggest collection of memorabilia,including , he said, "Cubby and Karen (Pendleton) cut-out dolls.
Cubby's dad, the drummer Haskell "Hack" O'Brien, is 96 and lives in San Diego. He's the last surviving Mouseketeers parent.
Bobby has copies of all the Disney movies and, as a kid, named his dog Bambi.
Bobby once got out of a speeding ticket in Los Angeles when the cop recognized him and said he'd let him off if he told him about Annette Funicello.
Host Jimmie Dodd wrote most of the music on the show, including the opening march and the slower-tempo version that closed the show: "Now it's time to say goodbye to all our company. M-I-C- See ya real soon-K-E-Y- Why? Because we like you -M-O-U-S-E."
DR LEE
Friday, November 26, 2010
New royalty in the land:
Move over, Sleeping Beauty, Rapunzel needs some room for her 70 feet of golden locks.
On Oct.15 the stars of Walt Disney Pictures' 50th full-length animated feature, "Tangled," moved into Fantasyland at Disneyland Park next door to Pinocchio's Daring Journey, Guest can now visit Rapunzel and Flynn Rider in their new meet-and-greet location, and little princesses can get the full Rapunzel makeover experience at Bibbidi Bobbido Boutique in Fantasyland.
DR LEE
On Oct.15 the stars of Walt Disney Pictures' 50th full-length animated feature, "Tangled," moved into Fantasyland at Disneyland Park next door to Pinocchio's Daring Journey, Guest can now visit Rapunzel and Flynn Rider in their new meet-and-greet location, and little princesses can get the full Rapunzel makeover experience at Bibbidi Bobbido Boutique in Fantasyland.
DR LEE
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Celebrating Micky Mouse:
This month marks the 82nd anniversary of the creation of Disney's most famous character and " friendship ambassador to the world," Mickey Mouse. The American icon was introduced Nov.18, 1928, in the first synchronized-sound cartoon,Steamboat Willie, and first created into a plush toy in 1930.
DR LEE
DR LEE
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Every step counted for CHOC Childern's:
On Oct. 17, more than 14,000 walkers participted in the 20th Anniversary CHOC Walk in the Park presented by the Disneyland Resort and rasied more than $2 million for the patients at CHOC Childern's. Disney VoluntEARS had an astounding presence with 786 cast members, friends and family who raised a total of $140,000 as of Oct. 19, and funds are still coming in.
In the early morning kick-off ceremony, Disneyland Resort President George A. Kalogridis and Disney Ambassadors Danielle DuBois and Quinn Shurian surprised President and CEO of CHOC Childern's Kim Cripe with a check for $200,000 to CHOC Childern on behalf of the Disneyland Resort.
The Disneyland Resort has a long history in partnering with CHOC, which opened its doors in 1964. "Walt Disney was one of the founding board members for CHOC and, through this walk, we are continuing Walt's legacy of giving back to the community," said Allen Fazio, vice president, Global Business Technology Strategy and CHOC Walk co-executive champion.
"Thank you to all of our cast members,friends and family who are walking today or who have supported the CHOC Walk in some other way," said George. "We couldn't have done it without you!"
DR LEE
In the early morning kick-off ceremony, Disneyland Resort President George A. Kalogridis and Disney Ambassadors Danielle DuBois and Quinn Shurian surprised President and CEO of CHOC Childern's Kim Cripe with a check for $200,000 to CHOC Childern on behalf of the Disneyland Resort.
The Disneyland Resort has a long history in partnering with CHOC, which opened its doors in 1964. "Walt Disney was one of the founding board members for CHOC and, through this walk, we are continuing Walt's legacy of giving back to the community," said Allen Fazio, vice president, Global Business Technology Strategy and CHOC Walk co-executive champion.
"Thank you to all of our cast members,friends and family who are walking today or who have supported the CHOC Walk in some other way," said George. "We couldn't have done it without you!"
DR LEE
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Julie Casaletto-Disney's First Ambassador:
Nearly half a century ago, Julie Reihm-now Casaletto- was bestowed the honor of being the first Disney ambassabor. The role, initially part of the "Tencennial" celebration of Disneyland, was created to put a face and a name to the park.
History of the Ambassador Program:
The year was 1964 and the tenth anniversary of Disneyland Park was fast approaching, Mary Poppins was showing in theaters, the 1964-65 New York World's Fair was in full swing and "Project X,"which later became the Walt Disney World Resort, was in the planning stage. With so much to done, Walt Disney's free time to keep up with media interviews and event requests was limited. Walt wanted to do something special to help celebrate the tenth anniversary of Disneyland Park. Hence, the Ambassador Program was created.
Opportunity of a Lifetime:
Julie's first role at the Disneyland was as a tour guide during her first summer of college. Little did she know she would soon be a legendary part of Disneyland history. Walt personally selected Julie to represent Disneyland and the thousands of cast members working at the park.
"Being selected as the first Disney ambassador was a tremendous honor and very exicting," said Julie. "Knowing that I would travel the world, filming with Walt for the "Wonderful World of Color' and representing Walt as his personal representative to his friends, I felt the magic and glow of pixie dust."
Working with Walt:
One of the most unique opportunities Julie had was interacting with Walt. Julie mostly admired Walt's attention to detail. For example, "On the first day of filming for "Worlderful World of Color,' Walt noted that he and the director had personalized chairs on the set. He also noted that there wasn't a personalized chair for me, as he said,'my co-star.' He shared this detail with two stagehands, and in no time at all a chair with "Julie" was on the set.
Advice for the Future Ambassadors:
For aspiring Disney ambassadors, Julie shares this piece of advice: "Follow your dream! Representing the Disneyland Resort opens doors to fellow cast members and to people all over the world. Your experiences will be memory makers, for you will represent a gaint in the world of enterainment and happiness."
DR LEE
History of the Ambassador Program:
The year was 1964 and the tenth anniversary of Disneyland Park was fast approaching, Mary Poppins was showing in theaters, the 1964-65 New York World's Fair was in full swing and "Project X,"which later became the Walt Disney World Resort, was in the planning stage. With so much to done, Walt Disney's free time to keep up with media interviews and event requests was limited. Walt wanted to do something special to help celebrate the tenth anniversary of Disneyland Park. Hence, the Ambassador Program was created.
Opportunity of a Lifetime:
Julie's first role at the Disneyland was as a tour guide during her first summer of college. Little did she know she would soon be a legendary part of Disneyland history. Walt personally selected Julie to represent Disneyland and the thousands of cast members working at the park.
"Being selected as the first Disney ambassador was a tremendous honor and very exicting," said Julie. "Knowing that I would travel the world, filming with Walt for the "Wonderful World of Color' and representing Walt as his personal representative to his friends, I felt the magic and glow of pixie dust."
Working with Walt:
One of the most unique opportunities Julie had was interacting with Walt. Julie mostly admired Walt's attention to detail. For example, "On the first day of filming for "Worlderful World of Color,' Walt noted that he and the director had personalized chairs on the set. He also noted that there wasn't a personalized chair for me, as he said,'my co-star.' He shared this detail with two stagehands, and in no time at all a chair with "Julie" was on the set.
Advice for the Future Ambassadors:
For aspiring Disney ambassadors, Julie shares this piece of advice: "Follow your dream! Representing the Disneyland Resort opens doors to fellow cast members and to people all over the world. Your experiences will be memory makers, for you will represent a gaint in the world of enterainment and happiness."
DR LEE
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Costume couture with the environment in mind:
The Entertainment Costuming team recently demonstrated their environmental efforts by making some of their costumes that had reached the "end of life" available for cast members to purchase. These costumes were perfectly wearable- they were either outdated styles no longer used at the resort or costumes that no longer met Show quality standards due to fading, small imperfections, etc.
It was a win-win situation for all: the Entertainment Costuming team streamlined their inventory: cast members benefited from purchasing great wardrobe pieces to assemble Halloween costumes: 25 racks of clothing were repurposed or recycled instead of being sent to the landfill.
Costume pieces included pirate items,medieval/Renaissance items, "surf and turf" animal-inspired items, stilt walker costumes, shoes and accessories. Costume pieces that were offered were all non Disney-branded items (meaning that if taken out of context, people would not necessarily know they came from the resort). Atmosphere and face character costumes were not included. The sale at Company D started Sept. 15 and cast member response was positive as costume pieces flew off the racks.
The effort demonstrated a great collaboration between Entertainment Costuming, Property Control, and Company D, and a conscious effort to "make a differance" for both cast and the environment.
DR LEE
It was a win-win situation for all: the Entertainment Costuming team streamlined their inventory: cast members benefited from purchasing great wardrobe pieces to assemble Halloween costumes: 25 racks of clothing were repurposed or recycled instead of being sent to the landfill.
Costume pieces included pirate items,medieval/Renaissance items, "surf and turf" animal-inspired items, stilt walker costumes, shoes and accessories. Costume pieces that were offered were all non Disney-branded items (meaning that if taken out of context, people would not necessarily know they came from the resort). Atmosphere and face character costumes were not included. The sale at Company D started Sept. 15 and cast member response was positive as costume pieces flew off the racks.
The effort demonstrated a great collaboration between Entertainment Costuming, Property Control, and Company D, and a conscious effort to "make a differance" for both cast and the environment.
DR LEE
Friday, October 15, 2010
Disney's Happiest Haunts Tour Ultimate Experience:
On select dates this fall, guests may purchase a Disney's Happiest Haunts Tour Ultimate Experience which will take them on a spooky adventure through the Disneyland Resort and concludes by joining Micky's Halloween Party in Disneyland Park. To book a tour or for more information, Guests may call 714-781-4400 or visit City Hall, Guided Tour Gardens or the Guest Relations Lobby. Tours may be booked up to 30 days in advance.
Disney's Happiest Haunts Tour Ultimate Experience: $99/ guest*
Available on Oct. 1,5,8,12,15,19,22,26,29,and 31 only
*no discount is available for this ultimate experience
DR LEE
Disney's Happiest Haunts Tour Ultimate Experience: $99/ guest*
Available on Oct. 1,5,8,12,15,19,22,26,29,and 31 only
*no discount is available for this ultimate experience
DR LEE
Thursday, October 14, 2010
"Let the Memories Begin":
Remember driving into Disneyland parking lot for the first time and getting goose bumps up and down your arms? Or what about the time you first witnessed the majestic sight of Sleeping Beatuy Castle?
We all remember our first time at a Disney park. Certain memories are important to each and every one of us, and this year at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, we're really going to treasure them.
On Sept.23, Tom Staggs,chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts,announced Let the Memories Begin, a new campaign being celebrated at the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts.
"For the first time ever, we are asking our guests to send us their most precious family memories, their photos and, most important of all, their home videos, "Tom said. "If the memory means something to our guests, then we want to share that memory with them...and everyone else."
At the heart of this campaign are guest stories they can share with us in brand-new ways. Television commercials, advertisements, broadcast specials and more will feature guest home-videos and personal photos. Even a new website has been created so they can upload their new memories for all to see at disneylandparks.com/memories.
The new campaign also will feature the website,disneyparks.com/Memories, where guests can get insider advice on how to really maximize their vacation.
Earlier this summer, we asked you to share your personal advice about Disney parks and resorts through an online guestionnaire held on The Hub. Thousands of cast members from both resorts answered a series of questions, and those responses helped provide content for hte website.
When the questionnaire ended, one thing was apparent- Disney memories aren't just for our guests, they're also for us.
DR LEE...I can remember when I was about 8 years old,"1960", our family went to Disneyland, some place in "Anahiem,were is that Dad" and my 2 brothers and I, we could not sleep the night before! Living in Lancaster, California, we had to get up like really early,say 4 a.m.,it's still dark out,were is my pillow! Arriving at Disneyland,I can remember walking up Main Street, U.S.A.,and seeing Mickey Mouse in person, instead of Television(Walt Disney's World of Color,remember Tinker Bell).
As I began my career at Disneyland, worked on the Jungle Cruise as the skipper,the Mark Twain and than on to the Club to become Dr Lee,Bartender. So many memories, guests,co-workers and family.
I would like to ask all who read this to leave a comment in the comment section about their memories of the Disneyland Resort................
DR LEE
We all remember our first time at a Disney park. Certain memories are important to each and every one of us, and this year at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, we're really going to treasure them.
On Sept.23, Tom Staggs,chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts,announced Let the Memories Begin, a new campaign being celebrated at the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts.
"For the first time ever, we are asking our guests to send us their most precious family memories, their photos and, most important of all, their home videos, "Tom said. "If the memory means something to our guests, then we want to share that memory with them...and everyone else."
At the heart of this campaign are guest stories they can share with us in brand-new ways. Television commercials, advertisements, broadcast specials and more will feature guest home-videos and personal photos. Even a new website has been created so they can upload their new memories for all to see at disneylandparks.com/memories.
The new campaign also will feature the website,disneyparks.com/Memories, where guests can get insider advice on how to really maximize their vacation.
Earlier this summer, we asked you to share your personal advice about Disney parks and resorts through an online guestionnaire held on The Hub. Thousands of cast members from both resorts answered a series of questions, and those responses helped provide content for hte website.
When the questionnaire ended, one thing was apparent- Disney memories aren't just for our guests, they're also for us.
DR LEE...I can remember when I was about 8 years old,"1960", our family went to Disneyland, some place in "Anahiem,were is that Dad" and my 2 brothers and I, we could not sleep the night before! Living in Lancaster, California, we had to get up like really early,say 4 a.m.,it's still dark out,were is my pillow! Arriving at Disneyland,I can remember walking up Main Street, U.S.A.,and seeing Mickey Mouse in person, instead of Television(Walt Disney's World of Color,remember Tinker Bell).
As I began my career at Disneyland, worked on the Jungle Cruise as the skipper,the Mark Twain and than on to the Club to become Dr Lee,Bartender. So many memories, guests,co-workers and family.
I would like to ask all who read this to leave a comment in the comment section about their memories of the Disneyland Resort................
DR LEE
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Moonlit Madness 2010:
On the evening of Sept. 13, more than 1,400 cast members participated in the 2010 Minnie's Moonlite Madness at Disneyland Park. This year's theme was a mash-up of all holidays and was hosted by Mr. Holiday, who entered the Festival Arena Rip Taylor -style, tossing confetti on participants. Of course,detective Minnie Mouse made an appearance as did Disney Ambassador Danielle DuBois.
Together they presented a check for $5,500 to Larry Haynes and Allison Harvey, who represented Mercy House, this year's beneficiaries. The cast members were told that this check will help keep 5 families from being homeless.
The first part of the event consisted of a 50-question trivia game followed by two hours of clue-solving madness. Teams had their choice of easy or hard clues to solve, ranging from completing a wooden coffin puzzle at Haunted Mansion to learning a '50s-inspired dance to be performed for judges.
DR LEE.....Love these holidays at the Disneyland Resort!!
Together they presented a check for $5,500 to Larry Haynes and Allison Harvey, who represented Mercy House, this year's beneficiaries. The cast members were told that this check will help keep 5 families from being homeless.
The first part of the event consisted of a 50-question trivia game followed by two hours of clue-solving madness. Teams had their choice of easy or hard clues to solve, ranging from completing a wooden coffin puzzle at Haunted Mansion to learning a '50s-inspired dance to be performed for judges.
DR LEE.....Love these holidays at the Disneyland Resort!!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Resort Expansion:
While Halloween Time is in full swing at Disneyland Park, things are also rockin' just a hop, skip and a jump across the Esplanade at Disney California Adventure Park. Here is a look at all the fun to be had this fall:
TRON:Legacy, scheduled for release on Dec. 17, will come to life on Oct.8 in Hollywood Pictures Backlot when ElecTRONica debuts. From Flynn's Video Arcade to a dance party, there will be new entertainment experiences for the whole family.
Toy Story Midway Mania! will have gamers back in action on Oct. 12. The attraction recently underwent a rehab in order to install new safety doors in the unload platform.
Duffy the Disney Bear will greet guests near Treasures in Paradise in Paradise Pier beginning Oct. 14. get ready for the cuddliest hug ever!
A new walkway is now open connecting "a bug's land" and Hollywood Pictures Backlot. Your desire to quickly get from Heimlich's Chew Chew train to Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is now a permanent pathway.
In Oct., construction will begin on Goofy's Sky School, bringing another fun-filled,energetic attraction to Paradise Pier. On Oct.11, the last car will leave for its final trip on Mulholland Madness so that Walt disney Imagineering can begin the attractions re-theming. The following day a decorative construction wall will be up from The Little Mermaid-Ariel's Undersea Adventure. to the former Pizza Oom Mow Mow.
For an in-depth look at the Disney California Adventure transformation visit the Blue Sky Cellar or disneycaliforniaadventure.com.
See You at The Resort............DR LEE A.K.A. THE GOOD DOCTOR
TRON:Legacy, scheduled for release on Dec. 17, will come to life on Oct.8 in Hollywood Pictures Backlot when ElecTRONica debuts. From Flynn's Video Arcade to a dance party, there will be new entertainment experiences for the whole family.
Toy Story Midway Mania! will have gamers back in action on Oct. 12. The attraction recently underwent a rehab in order to install new safety doors in the unload platform.
Duffy the Disney Bear will greet guests near Treasures in Paradise in Paradise Pier beginning Oct. 14. get ready for the cuddliest hug ever!
A new walkway is now open connecting "a bug's land" and Hollywood Pictures Backlot. Your desire to quickly get from Heimlich's Chew Chew train to Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is now a permanent pathway.
In Oct., construction will begin on Goofy's Sky School, bringing another fun-filled,energetic attraction to Paradise Pier. On Oct.11, the last car will leave for its final trip on Mulholland Madness so that Walt disney Imagineering can begin the attractions re-theming. The following day a decorative construction wall will be up from The Little Mermaid-Ariel's Undersea Adventure. to the former Pizza Oom Mow Mow.
For an in-depth look at the Disney California Adventure transformation visit the Blue Sky Cellar or disneycaliforniaadventure.com.
See You at The Resort............DR LEE A.K.A. THE GOOD DOCTOR
Friday, October 8, 2010
Walk in the Park:
Sometimes it takes large strides to make a difference in the community; and other times it takes only a few steps. On Sunday, Oct. 17, at 7a.m., you can make a difference by taking a few steps of your own(literally) at the 20th Anniversary CHOC Walk in the Park, taking place right here at the Disneyland Resort.
As you know so well, the annual CHOC Walk is a favorite of many cast members, their family and friends, who join thousnads of other walkers in this memorable and heartwarming event every year. The Disney VoluntEARS walk team always does a fantastic job of raising money for CHOC Walk to help ensure CHOC Childern's can continue providing the quality medical care that all childern deserve. Last year, the Disney VoluntEARS walk team raised more than $85,000,which helped the event bring in more than $1.6 million total.
This year, we are challenging the Disneyland Resort to take our fundraising efforts a couple of steps further. To honor the longstanding partnership that we've held with CHOC, dating back to Walt himself, and to commemorate the 20th anniversary of CHOC Walk, we are challenging all of you to help the Disneyland Resort raise $200,000- which is more than we've ever raised before.
Now, we're not asking you to do this all on your own. The Disneyland Resort is giving a $25 match donation for every walker who signs up on the Disney VoluntEARS walk team at chocwalk.org. If you're not able to join us at the Walk, you can register as a "Sleeping Bear" and your donations will still help us reach our goal. If you have some spare change, lookfor a Change for CHOC jar placed throughout the Resort. And in the coming weeks, there will be even more fun activities including a road show, opportunity drawings, silent and online auctions, and even karaoke.
As CHOC Childern's expands the services provided throughout the community, your support will help more childern-in addition to making sure that every child who is in need will receive care regardless of their family's ability to pay.
DR LEE
As you know so well, the annual CHOC Walk is a favorite of many cast members, their family and friends, who join thousnads of other walkers in this memorable and heartwarming event every year. The Disney VoluntEARS walk team always does a fantastic job of raising money for CHOC Walk to help ensure CHOC Childern's can continue providing the quality medical care that all childern deserve. Last year, the Disney VoluntEARS walk team raised more than $85,000,which helped the event bring in more than $1.6 million total.
This year, we are challenging the Disneyland Resort to take our fundraising efforts a couple of steps further. To honor the longstanding partnership that we've held with CHOC, dating back to Walt himself, and to commemorate the 20th anniversary of CHOC Walk, we are challenging all of you to help the Disneyland Resort raise $200,000- which is more than we've ever raised before.
Now, we're not asking you to do this all on your own. The Disneyland Resort is giving a $25 match donation for every walker who signs up on the Disney VoluntEARS walk team at chocwalk.org. If you're not able to join us at the Walk, you can register as a "Sleeping Bear" and your donations will still help us reach our goal. If you have some spare change, lookfor a Change for CHOC jar placed throughout the Resort. And in the coming weeks, there will be even more fun activities including a road show, opportunity drawings, silent and online auctions, and even karaoke.
As CHOC Childern's expands the services provided throughout the community, your support will help more childern-in addition to making sure that every child who is in need will receive care regardless of their family's ability to pay.
DR LEE
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Let The Memories Begin:
What a journey we've been on over the years...
We celebrated a milestone with Happiest Celebration on Earth. We awarded 1 million dreams with Year of a Million Dreams. "What will you celebrate?" provided guests with amazing ways to mark their special milestone with pure Disney magic.
Starting Sept.23, Let the Memories Begin will allow guests and cast members to share those special experiences that can only happen throughout Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.
Every parent knows the treasure memories can be. They're the only way to keep our childern forever young. And Disney memories? They're magical things filled with color, music and laughter.
But memories aren't just for our guests...
...the memories are also for us, our Cast Members.
At the heart of this campaign are guest stories, content they create and share. This "user-generated content" will be featured in TV spots, online and print ads, broadcast specials, promotions and a brand- new website.
During this year of new memories, look for those moments and memories that only Disney can make, not only for guests but also for you as a cast member.
Throughout the Let the Memories Begin campaign, we will keep you updated on news, updates and offerings.
Remember, no matter what roles we play,we also create magical memories for ourselves.(as bartender at club 33, I truly have "alot" of happy memories, from guests to fellow cast members.)
DR LEE
We celebrated a milestone with Happiest Celebration on Earth. We awarded 1 million dreams with Year of a Million Dreams. "What will you celebrate?" provided guests with amazing ways to mark their special milestone with pure Disney magic.
Starting Sept.23, Let the Memories Begin will allow guests and cast members to share those special experiences that can only happen throughout Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.
Every parent knows the treasure memories can be. They're the only way to keep our childern forever young. And Disney memories? They're magical things filled with color, music and laughter.
But memories aren't just for our guests...
...the memories are also for us, our Cast Members.
At the heart of this campaign are guest stories, content they create and share. This "user-generated content" will be featured in TV spots, online and print ads, broadcast specials, promotions and a brand- new website.
During this year of new memories, look for those moments and memories that only Disney can make, not only for guests but also for you as a cast member.
Throughout the Let the Memories Begin campaign, we will keep you updated on news, updates and offerings.
Remember, no matter what roles we play,we also create magical memories for ourselves.(as bartender at club 33, I truly have "alot" of happy memories, from guests to fellow cast members.)
DR LEE
Thursday, September 30, 2010
ElecTRONica:
Starting this fall, the energy at Disney California Adventure Park will rise and the digital world of TRON: Legacy will come alive during ElecTRONica, debuting on Oct. 8. This nighttime party will change both sci-fans and families with excitement,allowing guests of all ages to step into the TRON universe.
The experience begins as dancers on a multi-level stage in Sunshine Plaza help open the portal to ElecTRONica, as electronic music sets the tone. At nightfall, Hollywood Boulevard will be transformed into a computerized color grid, with light cycles racing across building facades and a mesmerizing audio-visual display assimilating "programs" into this new world. Helpful programs will teach young guests how to toss their own "Identity Disc," a Frisbee that replicates the iconic battle implement from the films.
Following a beckoning laser beam towards the Backlot Stage, guests will discover the party's source of energy, as live DJs spin house and electronic music while dancers throughout the area invite everyone to join in.
Specialty performers will entertain with dazzling laser manipulations set to energetic music.
Nearby is Flynn's Video Arcade, a dynamic re-theming of Stage 12 filled with vintage coin-operated games. Outside, guests can compete at the TRON:Evolution gaming area, featuring a hands-on look at the new video game hitting stores this December. Across the Backlot, Muppet*Vision 3-D will offer the TRON: LEGACY Exclusive 3-D Sneak Peek, an extended look at the new movie in theatres December 17, with in-theatre special effects.
ElecTRONica will be offered Friday thru Sunday this fall, and nightly during select holiday weeks.
DR LEE
The experience begins as dancers on a multi-level stage in Sunshine Plaza help open the portal to ElecTRONica, as electronic music sets the tone. At nightfall, Hollywood Boulevard will be transformed into a computerized color grid, with light cycles racing across building facades and a mesmerizing audio-visual display assimilating "programs" into this new world. Helpful programs will teach young guests how to toss their own "Identity Disc," a Frisbee that replicates the iconic battle implement from the films.
Following a beckoning laser beam towards the Backlot Stage, guests will discover the party's source of energy, as live DJs spin house and electronic music while dancers throughout the area invite everyone to join in.
Specialty performers will entertain with dazzling laser manipulations set to energetic music.
Nearby is Flynn's Video Arcade, a dynamic re-theming of Stage 12 filled with vintage coin-operated games. Outside, guests can compete at the TRON:Evolution gaming area, featuring a hands-on look at the new video game hitting stores this December. Across the Backlot, Muppet*Vision 3-D will offer the TRON: LEGACY Exclusive 3-D Sneak Peek, an extended look at the new movie in theatres December 17, with in-theatre special effects.
ElecTRONica will be offered Friday thru Sunday this fall, and nightly during select holiday weeks.
DR LEE
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
This Halloween, shop (and eat) until you drop!
Food...
This season,many of our popcorn outdoor vending carts will allow guests to get into the spirit of the fall with a new Halloween premium popcorn bucket in the shape of Mickey Mouse dressed as a ghost. Character dining and buffet locations and bakeries will offer specialty Halloween desserts including a chocolate dipped Mickey bat cookie, cream topped pumpkin muffins, Halloween Time cupcake,and pumpkin spice latte. For a more cultural celebration, guests have the opportunity to celebrate Dia de los Muertos at Rancho del Zocalo, which will offer a new "Day of the Dead" holiday treat.
Merchandise...
Need a Halloween costume for your little one? A variety of Disney character-inspired costumes including, but not limited to, Disney Princesses and Disney/Pixar Toy Story are available in select merchandise locations across the Resort. Locations include Disney Showcase in Disneyland Park,Greetings from California in Disney California Adventure Park and World of Disney in the Downtown Disney District. Also,don't forget to pick up a Mickey Mouse-inspired jack-o-lantern shaped treat bucket and Mickey Mouse ear hat, reusable grocery bag, candle holder and more.
DR LEE
This season,many of our popcorn outdoor vending carts will allow guests to get into the spirit of the fall with a new Halloween premium popcorn bucket in the shape of Mickey Mouse dressed as a ghost. Character dining and buffet locations and bakeries will offer specialty Halloween desserts including a chocolate dipped Mickey bat cookie, cream topped pumpkin muffins, Halloween Time cupcake,and pumpkin spice latte. For a more cultural celebration, guests have the opportunity to celebrate Dia de los Muertos at Rancho del Zocalo, which will offer a new "Day of the Dead" holiday treat.
Merchandise...
Need a Halloween costume for your little one? A variety of Disney character-inspired costumes including, but not limited to, Disney Princesses and Disney/Pixar Toy Story are available in select merchandise locations across the Resort. Locations include Disney Showcase in Disneyland Park,Greetings from California in Disney California Adventure Park and World of Disney in the Downtown Disney District. Also,don't forget to pick up a Mickey Mouse-inspired jack-o-lantern shaped treat bucket and Mickey Mouse ear hat, reusable grocery bag, candle holder and more.
DR LEE
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
"Toy Story 3" crosses major milestone:
Disney-Pixar's Toy Story 3 has crossed the $1 billion mark at the global box office today, joining Alice in Wonderland as the second $1 billion film this year from the Walt Disney Studios-the first studio in history to accomplish this feat. Disney first crossed the $1 billion threshold with Pirates of the Caribbean:Dead Man's Chest in 2006. Toy Story 3 becomes the only animated film to reach this milestone and the seventh title in industry history.
DR LEE
DR LEE
Monday, September 27, 2010
Disneyland Hotel:
When Walt Disney set out to bring his theme park dream to life he already knew he was out of his element as film studio director trying to run an amusement park. Due to lack of finances and no experience operating a hotel, Walt called on his friend Jack Wrather to build the Disneyland Hotel.
For the first 33 years of its operation, the hotel was run by the Wrather Corporation. It wasn't until 1988, that The Walt Disney Company purchased the entire corporation,acquiring the Disneyland Hotel.
The hotel opened its doors on Oct.5,1955, with a little more than 100 rooms spread out across five two-story buildings. Today the grounds of the hotel includes three towers increasing the total to 969 guests rooms, with even more Disney magic planned for the next few years.
When the current renovation is complete, it will include a new pool area with three water slides, new iconic dining experiences and all guest towers will be re-themed and renamed Adventure, Frontier and Fantasy Tower. All projects are scheduled for completion by 2012.
The Never Land Pool will remain open during the hotel's current renovation. Also, Steakhouse 55 Lounge's hours have been extended from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.
DR LEE
For the first 33 years of its operation, the hotel was run by the Wrather Corporation. It wasn't until 1988, that The Walt Disney Company purchased the entire corporation,acquiring the Disneyland Hotel.
The hotel opened its doors on Oct.5,1955, with a little more than 100 rooms spread out across five two-story buildings. Today the grounds of the hotel includes three towers increasing the total to 969 guests rooms, with even more Disney magic planned for the next few years.
When the current renovation is complete, it will include a new pool area with three water slides, new iconic dining experiences and all guest towers will be re-themed and renamed Adventure, Frontier and Fantasy Tower. All projects are scheduled for completion by 2012.
The Never Land Pool will remain open during the hotel's current renovation. Also, Steakhouse 55 Lounge's hours have been extended from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.
DR LEE
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Hollywood Walk of Fame:
Tinker Bell who has evolved from supporting character in the 1904 play "Peter and Wendy" to an iconic figure in the Disney empire, will receive the 2,418th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame Tuesday.
DR LEE
DR LEE
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Villains return to the Disneyland Resort:
Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort returns Sept. 17 through Oct. 31 for the fifth year with thrilling seasonal decorations, attractions, merchandise, food and entertainment.
Back this season is the spine-tingling Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy, where creepy creatures and ghosts lurk around every turn and drop, adding an errie effect to the already exicting attraction. Throughout the duration of the Halloween season,a chilling soundtrack will entertain Guests as they "fly" through space. The exterior of Space Mountain will also undergo a seasonal transformation with frightening projected images,audio and illuminating lights.
Also returning this year in New Orleans Square is Haunted Mansion Holiday, which will celebrate its tenth season. Jack Skellington and his friends provide plenty of excitement including the annual Halloween/Christmas gingerbread house in the Mansion ballroom with special spooky new surprises to this year's design.
For family fun:
A variety of Disney characters including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy and Pluto, will be in Town Square clad in seasonal costumes. Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland Park will once again transform into a Pumpkin Festival with more than 300 non-identical pumpkins on display in shop windows. Big Thunder Ranch Halloween Roundup in Frontierland will join in the festivities and feature ranch animals dressed in costumes for a Halloween Roundup,arts and crafts for all ages, and Halloween tunes by Miss Chris and the Roundup musicians.
New this Halloween season at Disneyland Park, Mickey's Halloween Party(formerly Mickey's Trick-or-Treat Party at Disney California Adventure) will light up the night and welcome thousands of costumed ghosts and goblins with a newly enhanced trick-or-treat locations, cavalcade, dance and photo locations, and exclusive viewing of fireworks spectaccular, "Halloween Screams...A Villainous Surpise in the Skies."
DR LEE
Back this season is the spine-tingling Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy, where creepy creatures and ghosts lurk around every turn and drop, adding an errie effect to the already exicting attraction. Throughout the duration of the Halloween season,a chilling soundtrack will entertain Guests as they "fly" through space. The exterior of Space Mountain will also undergo a seasonal transformation with frightening projected images,audio and illuminating lights.
Also returning this year in New Orleans Square is Haunted Mansion Holiday, which will celebrate its tenth season. Jack Skellington and his friends provide plenty of excitement including the annual Halloween/Christmas gingerbread house in the Mansion ballroom with special spooky new surprises to this year's design.
For family fun:
A variety of Disney characters including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy and Pluto, will be in Town Square clad in seasonal costumes. Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland Park will once again transform into a Pumpkin Festival with more than 300 non-identical pumpkins on display in shop windows. Big Thunder Ranch Halloween Roundup in Frontierland will join in the festivities and feature ranch animals dressed in costumes for a Halloween Roundup,arts and crafts for all ages, and Halloween tunes by Miss Chris and the Roundup musicians.
New this Halloween season at Disneyland Park, Mickey's Halloween Party(formerly Mickey's Trick-or-Treat Party at Disney California Adventure) will light up the night and welcome thousands of costumed ghosts and goblins with a newly enhanced trick-or-treat locations, cavalcade, dance and photo locations, and exclusive viewing of fireworks spectaccular, "Halloween Screams...A Villainous Surpise in the Skies."
DR LEE
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Haunted Mansion Holiday celebrates 10 years:
Just a mere decade ago, Haunted Mansion Holiday opened its doors for those seeking a frightfully good scare. Ten years later, riding the attraction based on Tim Burton's Nightmare Before Christmas has become a Disneyland Halloween tradition.
One element of the holiday overlay that changes every year is the gingerbread house in the ballroom scene. Each year, several teams work together to take the idea from concept to creation. The work begins with designers who use their imaginations to create a new design.
Once the design has been approved,the blueprints are shipped off to the Scenic Fabrication team at the Cerritos Warehouse, where Cast Members work behind the scenes to construct the foundation of the structure. After all the parts are assembled the Technical Services team takes over to "animate" parts that will move.
Last year's gingerbread creation was a rotating "Scareousel" with LED lighting,the year before was an opening and closing casket. This year,Jack pops out of the house, there is a moving zombie gingerbread man and a special little surprise on the pumpkin ginger bread busts.
The final touch is applied by bakers from Central Bakery, who bake the gingerbread each year and apply the decorations. Finally, the structure is transported to New Orleans Square and installed in the ballroom scene of Haunted Mansion. The aroma of fresh baked gingerbread fills the halls of the mansion, reminding Guests of the "most wonderful time of year."
DR LEE
One element of the holiday overlay that changes every year is the gingerbread house in the ballroom scene. Each year, several teams work together to take the idea from concept to creation. The work begins with designers who use their imaginations to create a new design.
Once the design has been approved,the blueprints are shipped off to the Scenic Fabrication team at the Cerritos Warehouse, where Cast Members work behind the scenes to construct the foundation of the structure. After all the parts are assembled the Technical Services team takes over to "animate" parts that will move.
Last year's gingerbread creation was a rotating "Scareousel" with LED lighting,the year before was an opening and closing casket. This year,Jack pops out of the house, there is a moving zombie gingerbread man and a special little surprise on the pumpkin ginger bread busts.
The final touch is applied by bakers from Central Bakery, who bake the gingerbread each year and apply the decorations. Finally, the structure is transported to New Orleans Square and installed in the ballroom scene of Haunted Mansion. The aroma of fresh baked gingerbread fills the halls of the mansion, reminding Guests of the "most wonderful time of year."
DR LEE
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
"Ghosts and ghostesses" lead Happiest Tours:
Dying for the inside scoop on ghouls, goblins and the spookier side of the Disneyland Resort? Beginning mid-September through October 31, Guest Relations "Ghost" and "Ghostesses" will guide the Happiest Haunts Tour, now in its third season.
During the three-hour excursion, Guests will learn how Halloween comes to life at the Disneyland Resort and other little known facts about the holiday. Along the journey, the group stops to experience five of the Resort's most popular Halloween attractions.
The tour's inspiration came from a pervious tour called Mysteries, Myths and Legends.
All Guest Relations tours can be booked by contacting Ticket Services at 714-781-4400........
DR LEE
During the three-hour excursion, Guests will learn how Halloween comes to life at the Disneyland Resort and other little known facts about the holiday. Along the journey, the group stops to experience five of the Resort's most popular Halloween attractions.
The tour's inspiration came from a pervious tour called Mysteries, Myths and Legends.
All Guest Relations tours can be booked by contacting Ticket Services at 714-781-4400........
DR LEE
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Global ghosts and goblins galore:
Begining centuries ago as a Celtic festival, Halloween has become one of the most popular holidays worldwide. But during this time of year, the practice of spells, charms and rituals is absent and replaced with Disney magic that transforms our parks into family-friendly Halloween experiences (well most of them).
At the Walt Disney World Resort, Mickey's No-So-Scary Halloween Party returns to the Magic Kingdom. During this ticketed event, Guests of all ages are encouraged to dress up in their favorite costumes and trick-or-treat around the park. In addition, special entertainment, including Mickey's "Boo-to-You" Halloween Parade, led by a spook-tacular ride by the Haedless Horseman, travels down Main Street, U.S.A. and the Happy HalloWishes fireworks spectacular fills the sky.
Screams also fill the French countryside on Oct.30 via Walt Disney Studios Park at Disneyland Paris. Terrorific Night returns for a new experience in a world more terrifying. Frightening creatures, monstrous characters and artists from another world are determined to haunt Guests for eternity. The experience promises to be so intense that the website recommends that Guests be 12 years or older.
The dark side of Hong Kong Disneyland will have ghosts fill its park, allowing Guests to experience some frightful fun when Disney's Haunted Halloween returns. The immersion begins on Main Street, U.S.A., where Guests will encounter and endless array of Victorian ghosts while in Adventureland, they are wished luck in finding the pathway out of the tribal burial ground before the ghosts claim them as one of their own.
A visit to any of these events will certainly keep the spirits up.
DR LEE
At the Walt Disney World Resort, Mickey's No-So-Scary Halloween Party returns to the Magic Kingdom. During this ticketed event, Guests of all ages are encouraged to dress up in their favorite costumes and trick-or-treat around the park. In addition, special entertainment, including Mickey's "Boo-to-You" Halloween Parade, led by a spook-tacular ride by the Haedless Horseman, travels down Main Street, U.S.A. and the Happy HalloWishes fireworks spectacular fills the sky.
Screams also fill the French countryside on Oct.30 via Walt Disney Studios Park at Disneyland Paris. Terrorific Night returns for a new experience in a world more terrifying. Frightening creatures, monstrous characters and artists from another world are determined to haunt Guests for eternity. The experience promises to be so intense that the website recommends that Guests be 12 years or older.
The dark side of Hong Kong Disneyland will have ghosts fill its park, allowing Guests to experience some frightful fun when Disney's Haunted Halloween returns. The immersion begins on Main Street, U.S.A., where Guests will encounter and endless array of Victorian ghosts while in Adventureland, they are wished luck in finding the pathway out of the tribal burial ground before the ghosts claim them as one of their own.
A visit to any of these events will certainly keep the spirits up.
DR LEE
Thursday, September 2, 2010
California dreamin':
Now that World of Color is dazzling Guests on a nightly basis it's time to get excited about the future additions at Disney's California Adventure.
Kachow!
Summer 2012, the Disney and Pixar Animation Studio's film, Cars, will come to life when Guests step into Cars Land designed to be a replica of Radiator Springs. Here is a quick list of what to anticipate when the new land opens.
1...Attractions
a...Radiator Springs Racers
b...Mater's Junkyard Jamboree
c...Luigi's Flying Tires
2...Merchandise Locations
a...Ramone's House of Body Art
b...Radiator Springs Curios
3...Food and Dining Locations
a...Fillmore's Taste-In
b...Flo's V8 Cafe'
c...Cozy Cone Motel
Along the boardwalk...
When the newly re-imagined Paradise Pier is complete, it will transport Guests to an early 20th-century California seaside amusement area. With all the romance and charm, who knows, you just might fall in love under the stars, along the boardwalk. Part of this transformation includes the opening of Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta and Paradise Pier Garden Grill, in 2011. The two new enhanced dining locations will share a 900-seat outdoor dining area.
Welcome to California...
Soon the hustle and bustle of the 1920s and 1930s California will come to life from the Main Entrance to the Hollywood Pictures Backlot. When Guests step past the Gates they will be immersed in the California Walt Disney moved to in 1922, with nothing but $40 in his pocket and a dream in his heart.
In order to bring this transformation to life a few locations will close over the next few months at Disney's California Adventure. Make sure to enjoy these locations or snap a few photos before they are just an entry in "Disney A to Z The Official Encyclopedia."
On Sept.6, Pizza Oom Mow Mow, Reboundo Beach, the S.S. rustworthy and Maliboomer will be opened one last day. Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta (replaces Pizza Oom Mow Mow) and Paradise Garden Grill (replaces Burger Invasion.)
On Sept. 6, Bountiful Valley Farmers's Market Fruit Cart, Sam Andreas Shakes and P.T. Flea Market will serve their last Guests.
In early September, a construction wall will go up around the sun icon and fountain in Sunshine Plaza. The removal of the sculpture and fountain will make way for the replica of Carthay Circle Theatre, sure to become a new iconic family photo backdrop.
On Oct. 1, the Main Entrance mural will begin to be removed for its vintage maheover. Work has already began on the Red Car Trolley, scheduled to debut in 2012.
Fun Fact.....
The Carthay Circle Theatre, in Los Angeles, premiered the first full-length Disney animated feature, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, on Dec. 21,1937.
DR LEE
Kachow!
Summer 2012, the Disney and Pixar Animation Studio's film, Cars, will come to life when Guests step into Cars Land designed to be a replica of Radiator Springs. Here is a quick list of what to anticipate when the new land opens.
1...Attractions
a...Radiator Springs Racers
b...Mater's Junkyard Jamboree
c...Luigi's Flying Tires
2...Merchandise Locations
a...Ramone's House of Body Art
b...Radiator Springs Curios
3...Food and Dining Locations
a...Fillmore's Taste-In
b...Flo's V8 Cafe'
c...Cozy Cone Motel
Along the boardwalk...
When the newly re-imagined Paradise Pier is complete, it will transport Guests to an early 20th-century California seaside amusement area. With all the romance and charm, who knows, you just might fall in love under the stars, along the boardwalk. Part of this transformation includes the opening of Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta and Paradise Pier Garden Grill, in 2011. The two new enhanced dining locations will share a 900-seat outdoor dining area.
Welcome to California...
Soon the hustle and bustle of the 1920s and 1930s California will come to life from the Main Entrance to the Hollywood Pictures Backlot. When Guests step past the Gates they will be immersed in the California Walt Disney moved to in 1922, with nothing but $40 in his pocket and a dream in his heart.
In order to bring this transformation to life a few locations will close over the next few months at Disney's California Adventure. Make sure to enjoy these locations or snap a few photos before they are just an entry in "Disney A to Z The Official Encyclopedia."
On Sept.6, Pizza Oom Mow Mow, Reboundo Beach, the S.S. rustworthy and Maliboomer will be opened one last day. Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta (replaces Pizza Oom Mow Mow) and Paradise Garden Grill (replaces Burger Invasion.)
On Sept. 6, Bountiful Valley Farmers's Market Fruit Cart, Sam Andreas Shakes and P.T. Flea Market will serve their last Guests.
In early September, a construction wall will go up around the sun icon and fountain in Sunshine Plaza. The removal of the sculpture and fountain will make way for the replica of Carthay Circle Theatre, sure to become a new iconic family photo backdrop.
On Oct. 1, the Main Entrance mural will begin to be removed for its vintage maheover. Work has already began on the Red Car Trolley, scheduled to debut in 2012.
Fun Fact.....
The Carthay Circle Theatre, in Los Angeles, premiered the first full-length Disney animated feature, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, on Dec. 21,1937.
DR LEE
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Working and retiring from Disneyland:
"Any place you go in the world, if you tell people you worked for Disney,first of all, you get a big smile on their face. Then, you get a story about how Disney has affected their life in some way....their first trip to Disneyland, opening day, their favorite character or attraction. That's the legacy we all leave when we work for Disney."
Dave Smith, retiring after 40 years,job, Disney Chief Archivist, 70 yrs.old, Oct.13th is birthday, retirement day, Oct.15th...............
Being retired and living in Pleasant Hill, Ca. (near San Francisco),I know this to be true. As I go through my day,it is fun to ask former "Guests" what their favorite attraction is at the Disneyland Resort.Their reply, Tower of Terror,Mr. Toads Wild Ride, Matterhorn,Soarin,Fireworks,World of Color,Pirates,etc."
It is fun to watch those smiles appear on our former "Guests" faces as they describe why and what they enjoy most when at the Disneyland Resort. Everywere I look,billboards,T.V. spots,license plates frames,shirts,etc. Disneyland is everywhere, happy to be part of the magic. Thank You Walt Disney Company..........
DR LEE
Dave Smith, retiring after 40 years,job, Disney Chief Archivist, 70 yrs.old, Oct.13th is birthday, retirement day, Oct.15th...............
Being retired and living in Pleasant Hill, Ca. (near San Francisco),I know this to be true. As I go through my day,it is fun to ask former "Guests" what their favorite attraction is at the Disneyland Resort.Their reply, Tower of Terror,Mr. Toads Wild Ride, Matterhorn,Soarin,Fireworks,World of Color,Pirates,etc."
It is fun to watch those smiles appear on our former "Guests" faces as they describe why and what they enjoy most when at the Disneyland Resort. Everywere I look,billboards,T.V. spots,license plates frames,shirts,etc. Disneyland is everywhere, happy to be part of the magic. Thank You Walt Disney Company..........
DR LEE
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Changes coming to Disney's California Adventure Park:
Exciting changes continue at Disney's california Adventure Park. In June, "World of Color" began making a nighttime splash at the park and Silly Symphony Swings began offering a musical ride in Paradise Pier.
As you might already know, Goofy's Sky School will add even more fun to Paradise Pier in 2011. The attraction is inspired by the 1940 cartoon short, "Goofy's Glider." It's a flying academy that follows Goofy's attempts to teach a group of novice pilots how to fly.
In order for Mickey and Goofy to get ready for this transformation, Mulholland Madness will close October 12, and the last time guests can go for a spin on Disney's verion of Mulholland Drive is October 11. For those who want to get a final scream on Maliboomer, you better hurry. Guests will blast off for the final time September 6, as the attraction will be closed on September 7.
About the 12 acre Carsland expansion due in 2012. You might be interested in knowing that the last day to experience Bountiful Valley Farms will be September 8 to help pave the way for Mater's Junkyard Jamboree.
For all the news you need to know about the changes at Disney's California Adventure Park, visit disneycaliforniaadventurepark.com or stop by the Blue Sky Cellar next time you are at the park.
DR LEE
As you might already know, Goofy's Sky School will add even more fun to Paradise Pier in 2011. The attraction is inspired by the 1940 cartoon short, "Goofy's Glider." It's a flying academy that follows Goofy's attempts to teach a group of novice pilots how to fly.
In order for Mickey and Goofy to get ready for this transformation, Mulholland Madness will close October 12, and the last time guests can go for a spin on Disney's verion of Mulholland Drive is October 11. For those who want to get a final scream on Maliboomer, you better hurry. Guests will blast off for the final time September 6, as the attraction will be closed on September 7.
About the 12 acre Carsland expansion due in 2012. You might be interested in knowing that the last day to experience Bountiful Valley Farms will be September 8 to help pave the way for Mater's Junkyard Jamboree.
For all the news you need to know about the changes at Disney's California Adventure Park, visit disneycaliforniaadventurepark.com or stop by the Blue Sky Cellar next time you are at the park.
DR LEE
Disney Cruise Ship Rescue:
There was a "magical" ending to a high seas drama in the Mediterranean recently as a Disney cruise ship, the Disney Magic, rescued 18 Algerians lost at sea.
A Disney spokeswoman tells USA TODAY the 2,400-passenger vessel joined the search for the Algerians while sailing from Gibralter to Barcelona. The Algerians reportedly had been stranded on the open seas for four to five days.
"The shipboard team heard crew members from two other vessels talking on the radio about sighting the boat and then losing a visual of it, so the Disney Magic then joined the search and quickly spotted the small boat, which had lost power," Disney spokeswoman Rena Langley says.The Disney Magic took the stranded Algerians aboard and provided them with food,cabins and most important,"healthcare."
DR LEE
A Disney spokeswoman tells USA TODAY the 2,400-passenger vessel joined the search for the Algerians while sailing from Gibralter to Barcelona. The Algerians reportedly had been stranded on the open seas for four to five days.
"The shipboard team heard crew members from two other vessels talking on the radio about sighting the boat and then losing a visual of it, so the Disney Magic then joined the search and quickly spotted the small boat, which had lost power," Disney spokeswoman Rena Langley says.The Disney Magic took the stranded Algerians aboard and provided them with food,cabins and most important,"healthcare."
DR LEE
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Disneyland resumes sales of wooden toy guns:
Disneyland recently began selling wooden toy guns again, about nine years after pulling them off of store shelves.
Disney officials decided to resume sales of the toy guns, which are now orange and green. Disneyland was selling plastic guns, including space-like and pirate-themed ones.
These new toy guns are very popular with Guests and often sell out. Disney stopped selling the historic,1800s-style guns in 2001 when California legislators passed a law reguiring all toy guns to be brightly colored to avoid being mistaken for real weapons.
DR LEE
Disney officials decided to resume sales of the toy guns, which are now orange and green. Disneyland was selling plastic guns, including space-like and pirate-themed ones.
These new toy guns are very popular with Guests and often sell out. Disney stopped selling the historic,1800s-style guns in 2001 when California legislators passed a law reguiring all toy guns to be brightly colored to avoid being mistaken for real weapons.
DR LEE
Monday, August 9, 2010
Gaming Acquisition:
The Walt Disney Company has acquired Palo Alto-based Tapulous, Inc., a leading developer of music games for the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch. Through a merger agreement, Tapulous is now a wholly owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company reporting into Disney Interactive Media Group (DIMG). In the last year, DIMG has enjoyed many successes in its mobile busniess counting several "platinum" performing apps with more than one million downloads, including Disney's Alice in Wonderland Lite, Fairies Fly Lite and JellyCar 2, which is Disney's most successful premium game in the app store to date. In addition, DIMG creates and delivers unique mobile content and manages a Disney-branded mobile phone service in Japan in association with Softbank.
DR LEE
DR LEE
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Ticket Prices:
August 5th, ticket prices going up..............
Ages 10+ Ages 3-9
6-Day Park Hopper $256.00 $230.00
5-Day Park Hopper $251.00 $226.00
4-Day Park Hopper $231.00 $208.00
3-day Park Hopper $206.00 $185.00
2-Day Park Hopper $161.00 $146.00
2-Day $151.00 $136.00
1-Day Park Hopper $101.00 $91.00
1-Day $76.00 $68.00
Base Ticket admits guests to one theme park each day of use. Park choices are: Disneyland, Disneyland California Adventure.
Park Hopper option entitles guest to visit both theme parks on each day of use.
All tickets expire 14 days from the date of first use.
[Theme Park Annual Pass Options
Premium $459.00
Deluxe $329.00
Southern California* $239.00
Southern California Select* $184.00
*Valid proof of Southern California residency required for purchase and use.
DR LEE
P.S. Still a great price for what you get! From early morning to late into the night, family,friends memories and lets not forget the entertainment, shows,and parades.Oh yes, those FIREWORKS,BOOM, BANG AND FLASH............DR LEE
P.S.S. To those few who can, lunch or dinner at "Club 33".........DR LEE
Ages 10+ Ages 3-9
6-Day Park Hopper $256.00 $230.00
5-Day Park Hopper $251.00 $226.00
4-Day Park Hopper $231.00 $208.00
3-day Park Hopper $206.00 $185.00
2-Day Park Hopper $161.00 $146.00
2-Day $151.00 $136.00
1-Day Park Hopper $101.00 $91.00
1-Day $76.00 $68.00
Base Ticket admits guests to one theme park each day of use. Park choices are: Disneyland, Disneyland California Adventure.
Park Hopper option entitles guest to visit both theme parks on each day of use.
All tickets expire 14 days from the date of first use.
[Theme Park Annual Pass Options
Premium $459.00
Deluxe $329.00
Southern California* $239.00
Southern California Select* $184.00
*Valid proof of Southern California residency required for purchase and use.
DR LEE
P.S. Still a great price for what you get! From early morning to late into the night, family,friends memories and lets not forget the entertainment, shows,and parades.Oh yes, those FIREWORKS,BOOM, BANG AND FLASH............DR LEE
P.S.S. To those few who can, lunch or dinner at "Club 33".........DR LEE
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
World of Color:
World of Color has been extremely popular with Guests this summer, and we are happy to report that the show will continue nightly throughout the year. After Labor Day, Disney California Adventure Park will remain open until 8p.m. Monday thru Thursday and until 10 p.m.Friday, Saturday and Sunday to accommodate the nightly performance. Dining packages will be available. There may be some days during the year when the show will be dark, so please check disneyland.com for more show and dining information.
DR LEE
DR LEE
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Egyptian excursions:
Seven.The Seven Seas Lagoon at the Walt Disney World Resort. Seven night cruises offered on Disney Cruise Line. And those adorable seven dwarfs from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
There's a whole new reason to celebrate the lucky number seven at Disney.
In 2011, Adventures by Disney will be taking families to the country which houses the seventh wonder of the ancient world still in existence, Egypt.
Two itineraries, a seven-night and a nine-night vacation, will be offered in Egypt filled with daily activities that are appropriate for the entire family, including childern who will step into the pages of their history books. The seven-night itinerary features the highlights of Cairo followed by a three-day Nile River Cruise sailing from Aswan to Luxor. The nine-night itinerary will add an additional two days on the Red Sea in the resort town of Sharm El Sheikh, which is famous for its underwater national park, a veritable snorkeling paradise for seasoned and first-time snorkelers alike. Both programs are escorted by an Egyptologist to enchance Guests'understanding of the ancient world.
Guests will discover the astonishing array of the treasures of antiquity, from the pharaonic collections housed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo to the ancient temples and royal tombs along the banks of the Nile River-and to see the Great Pyramids and mysterious Sphinx.
Families can also look forward to Egyptian cooking demonstrations, a camel ride at the pyramids and papyrus-making activities.
DR LEE
There's a whole new reason to celebrate the lucky number seven at Disney.
In 2011, Adventures by Disney will be taking families to the country which houses the seventh wonder of the ancient world still in existence, Egypt.
Two itineraries, a seven-night and a nine-night vacation, will be offered in Egypt filled with daily activities that are appropriate for the entire family, including childern who will step into the pages of their history books. The seven-night itinerary features the highlights of Cairo followed by a three-day Nile River Cruise sailing from Aswan to Luxor. The nine-night itinerary will add an additional two days on the Red Sea in the resort town of Sharm El Sheikh, which is famous for its underwater national park, a veritable snorkeling paradise for seasoned and first-time snorkelers alike. Both programs are escorted by an Egyptologist to enchance Guests'understanding of the ancient world.
Guests will discover the astonishing array of the treasures of antiquity, from the pharaonic collections housed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo to the ancient temples and royal tombs along the banks of the Nile River-and to see the Great Pyramids and mysterious Sphinx.
Families can also look forward to Egyptian cooking demonstrations, a camel ride at the pyramids and papyrus-making activities.
DR LEE
Monday, August 2, 2010
11014 hits on Dr Lee's blog:
Since 2000, I have gotten into the habit of keeping a "journal." At first,it was hit-an-miss at best, not very much was written. However, as these past few years have come and gone,I have improved much.
Every night,at approx. 9 p.m.,I sit and I write, what time I woke up,were I went,things I did that day,what bills were paid, people who I had contact with,and how many people looked at my blog. From August 1st 2009 to August 1st 2010, 11014 people looked at my blog and I say "thanks."
August 1st is an important date for me, it has been 3 years since I moved to Pleasant Hill, California(about 20 miles from San Francisco) from Riverside,California since retiring from Disneyland Club 33.
Reading my blog, you will notice a comment section at the bottom of each entry. If there is something you would like me to write about,let me know in this section.
Again, I say "thanks" and look forward to another exicting year blogging,and oh yes,see you at the Disney Resort.
DR LEE
Every night,at approx. 9 p.m.,I sit and I write, what time I woke up,were I went,things I did that day,what bills were paid, people who I had contact with,and how many people looked at my blog. From August 1st 2009 to August 1st 2010, 11014 people looked at my blog and I say "thanks."
August 1st is an important date for me, it has been 3 years since I moved to Pleasant Hill, California(about 20 miles from San Francisco) from Riverside,California since retiring from Disneyland Club 33.
Reading my blog, you will notice a comment section at the bottom of each entry. If there is something you would like me to write about,let me know in this section.
Again, I say "thanks" and look forward to another exicting year blogging,and oh yes,see you at the Disney Resort.
DR LEE
Golden Oak resort community unveiled:
Disney has unveiled Golden Oak, a luxury residential resort community offering the unprecedented opportunity to purchase a home at Walt Disney World Resort. Designed by Disney's famed Imagineers, the gated community will feature intimate neighborhoods and amenities created with everyone in the family in mind. Disney's well-known attention to detail is visible in every park, pathway and the custom-design of the proposed private clubhouse. Expansive conservation areas comprise almost half of the entire 980 acre footprint, all just steps away from the Magic Kingdom Park.
DR LEE
DR LEE
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Disneyland 1956 Home Movies With Walt!
Jeff found these amazing videos amongst his grandfather's home movies, they're truly incredible.
Please take a moment to enjoy them, I truly think you'll simply overwhelmed as how much the park has changed. His grandfather was quite a brilliant cinematographer!
Honestly, the videos brought brought a tear to my eye, they're really touching and truly bring value to the phrase 'Carpe Diem!'. Seize the day.
Please take a moment to enjoy them, I truly think you'll simply overwhelmed as how much the park has changed. His grandfather was quite a brilliant cinematographer!
Honestly, the videos brought brought a tear to my eye, they're really touching and truly bring value to the phrase 'Carpe Diem!'. Seize the day.
Home Movies At DisneyLand - 1956 **Part Two** from Jeff Altman on Vimeo.
1 Year and 1 Day!
Did you know that Disneyland was actually constructed in one year and one day? Wow!
That's incredibly fast for so much highly detailed work!
When the gates flew open there were five themed lands and 20 attractions! I'd have to say it's grown quite a bit since then.
Walt also said that as Disneyland grew older, it would also grow more beautiful as the foliage grew and matured.
Gosh, even after working here 28 years, I'm still here whenever I'm in the OC and I've never grown tired of the ol' place.
That's incredibly fast for so much highly detailed work!
When the gates flew open there were five themed lands and 20 attractions! I'd have to say it's grown quite a bit since then.
Walt also said that as Disneyland grew older, it would also grow more beautiful as the foliage grew and matured.
Gosh, even after working here 28 years, I'm still here whenever I'm in the OC and I've never grown tired of the ol' place.
Monday, July 19, 2010
55 years of milestones:
July 17, 1955, Disneyland opens!
1960
Just five years after opening its gates, Disneyland continued to add new experiences to bring back Guests. Nature's Wonderland, based on Walt Disney's True-Life Adventures, opened in Frontierland allowing passengers to travel by mine train or pack mule through Beaver Valley and the Living Dessert. And a new production in Circarama debuted called America the Beautiful.
1965
Disneyland marked its first decade with a yearlong "Tencennial." Celebration elements included parkwide decorations, a grand parade and numerous special events throughout the year. To help represent the park during the busy year, the role of Disneyland Ambassador to the World was created.
1970
The Wrather Company introduced the 319-room Marina Tower, the Water Wonderland Marina, the "Dancing Waters Shows," and a new registration lobby at the Disneyland Hotel. Disneyland Park celebrated its 15th anniversary and more than 130 original members of the 1955 Disneyland Cast joined in a special ceremony on July 17 of that year.
1975
Disneyland celebrated its 20th anniversary and began a 15-month salute to the U.S.A. Bicentennial with the most elaborate parade in the park's history-"America on Parade" which featured 50 floats and 150 giant performers at least eight feet tall, in addition to an all-new red,white and blue Fireworks Spectacular "Fantasy in the Sky."
1980
Disneyland kicked off a year-long Silver Anniversary celebration with a pre-parade show at the Tournament of Roses on New Years's Day in Pasadena. Several special parades and shows followed for the rest of the year, but it was a special event in March,featuring Michael Jackson and Danny Kaye, that brought national attention to the celebration.
SIDE NOTE????
December 12,1981, Dr Lee "future" Bartnder of Club 33,works his first day as an attraction host on the Mark Twain.
1985
Disneyland's 30th anniversary was celebrated in spectacular style: A gigantic machine called the Gift Giver Extraordinaire doled out thousands of prizes to Guests as they entered the gates, including brand new GM cars to every thirty-thousandth Guest; Disneyland stayed open for a full 24-hours to mark the actual date(July 17); and the City of Anahiem marked the occasion with Skyfest on December 5(Walt's birthday), which released more than a million balloons into the air.
1990
For the 35th anniversary of Disneyland, Party Gras, the 35th anniversary parade, made its way down Main Street,U.S.A. a parade float that measured 37 feet. The Dream Machine, located in Central Plaza, gave some fortunate Guests an opportunity to try their luck to win one of many prizes that included Disney videos, a Mickey Mouse plush or even a new car.
1995
The 40th anniversary of Disneyland Park was highlighted by the opening of the Indiana Jones Adventure, a thrilling off-road journey through an ancient temple from the creative forces of Disney and George Lucas. The dance club Videopolis, was transformed onto the Fantasyland Theatre,featuring the all- new stage show "The Spirit of Pocahontas." Disney also acquired the Disneyland Hotel's next-door neighbor, the Pan Pacific Hotel, which was transformed into the Disneyland Pacific Hotel (and later the Paradise Pier Hotel.)
2000
Disneyland Park celebrated its anniversary by day with the classically inspired "45 Years of Magic" parade and by night with dazzling new Fireworks Spectacular "Believe...There's Magic in the Stars." In consideration of Guests young and old, a new park-wide smoking policy was introduced, and the only original Tomorrowland attraction left from opening day, Autopia, is remodeled.
2005
Memorable moments of the 50th anniversary included United States Astronaut Neil Armstrong re-dedicating Space Mountain and Disneyland becoming the first theme park to be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame;the 50th anniversary anthem "Remember When" being recorded and performed by LeAnn Rimes; hidden "50" icons throughout Disneyland Park; and a $1 million donation to the Boys and Girls Club of Anahiem.
Another Side Note???
June 20,2007 on my 55th birthday, Dr Lee retires and moves to Pleasant Hill,(San Francisco area)Ca.
2010
It was a second act like no other-Captain EO returned as the Michael Jackson/Francis Ford Coppola/George Lucas film returned to Disneyland Park almost two decades after it first debuted. And the Disneyland Resort saw a major expansion plan unfurl with the addition of nighttime spectacular World of Color along with Silly Symphony Swings.
Enjoy......Dr Lee A.K.A. The Good Doctor
1960
Just five years after opening its gates, Disneyland continued to add new experiences to bring back Guests. Nature's Wonderland, based on Walt Disney's True-Life Adventures, opened in Frontierland allowing passengers to travel by mine train or pack mule through Beaver Valley and the Living Dessert. And a new production in Circarama debuted called America the Beautiful.
1965
Disneyland marked its first decade with a yearlong "Tencennial." Celebration elements included parkwide decorations, a grand parade and numerous special events throughout the year. To help represent the park during the busy year, the role of Disneyland Ambassador to the World was created.
1970
The Wrather Company introduced the 319-room Marina Tower, the Water Wonderland Marina, the "Dancing Waters Shows," and a new registration lobby at the Disneyland Hotel. Disneyland Park celebrated its 15th anniversary and more than 130 original members of the 1955 Disneyland Cast joined in a special ceremony on July 17 of that year.
1975
Disneyland celebrated its 20th anniversary and began a 15-month salute to the U.S.A. Bicentennial with the most elaborate parade in the park's history-"America on Parade" which featured 50 floats and 150 giant performers at least eight feet tall, in addition to an all-new red,white and blue Fireworks Spectacular "Fantasy in the Sky."
1980
Disneyland kicked off a year-long Silver Anniversary celebration with a pre-parade show at the Tournament of Roses on New Years's Day in Pasadena. Several special parades and shows followed for the rest of the year, but it was a special event in March,featuring Michael Jackson and Danny Kaye, that brought national attention to the celebration.
SIDE NOTE????
December 12,1981, Dr Lee "future" Bartnder of Club 33,works his first day as an attraction host on the Mark Twain.
1985
Disneyland's 30th anniversary was celebrated in spectacular style: A gigantic machine called the Gift Giver Extraordinaire doled out thousands of prizes to Guests as they entered the gates, including brand new GM cars to every thirty-thousandth Guest; Disneyland stayed open for a full 24-hours to mark the actual date(July 17); and the City of Anahiem marked the occasion with Skyfest on December 5(Walt's birthday), which released more than a million balloons into the air.
1990
For the 35th anniversary of Disneyland, Party Gras, the 35th anniversary parade, made its way down Main Street,U.S.A. a parade float that measured 37 feet. The Dream Machine, located in Central Plaza, gave some fortunate Guests an opportunity to try their luck to win one of many prizes that included Disney videos, a Mickey Mouse plush or even a new car.
1995
The 40th anniversary of Disneyland Park was highlighted by the opening of the Indiana Jones Adventure, a thrilling off-road journey through an ancient temple from the creative forces of Disney and George Lucas. The dance club Videopolis, was transformed onto the Fantasyland Theatre,featuring the all- new stage show "The Spirit of Pocahontas." Disney also acquired the Disneyland Hotel's next-door neighbor, the Pan Pacific Hotel, which was transformed into the Disneyland Pacific Hotel (and later the Paradise Pier Hotel.)
2000
Disneyland Park celebrated its anniversary by day with the classically inspired "45 Years of Magic" parade and by night with dazzling new Fireworks Spectacular "Believe...There's Magic in the Stars." In consideration of Guests young and old, a new park-wide smoking policy was introduced, and the only original Tomorrowland attraction left from opening day, Autopia, is remodeled.
2005
Memorable moments of the 50th anniversary included United States Astronaut Neil Armstrong re-dedicating Space Mountain and Disneyland becoming the first theme park to be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame;the 50th anniversary anthem "Remember When" being recorded and performed by LeAnn Rimes; hidden "50" icons throughout Disneyland Park; and a $1 million donation to the Boys and Girls Club of Anahiem.
Another Side Note???
June 20,2007 on my 55th birthday, Dr Lee retires and moves to Pleasant Hill,(San Francisco area)Ca.
2010
It was a second act like no other-Captain EO returned as the Michael Jackson/Francis Ford Coppola/George Lucas film returned to Disneyland Park almost two decades after it first debuted. And the Disneyland Resort saw a major expansion plan unfurl with the addition of nighttime spectacular World of Color along with Silly Symphony Swings.
Enjoy......Dr Lee A.K.A. The Good Doctor
Friday, July 9, 2010
The Flags of the Disneyland Resort:
When the nation mourns or a tragedy strikes, the Disneyland Resort recognizes those historical days with ceremonies of honor and remembrance. The American flag located in Town Square, Main Street,U.S.A. has flown half-mass for these occasions. Additionally, a Flag Retreat Ceremony is observed daily and on Veteran's Day,a special ceremony is held honoring Cast who are current, reserve or prior service men and women to march down Main Street in their military uniforms.
Hidden Treasures in the Magic Kingdom:
The excitement of entering the Disneyland Resort can be overwhelming, it's easy to overlook small details. But if Guests look closely, they would discover hidden treasures in plain sight. Did you know Disneyland Park has it's very own flags?
The first flag flies high above the railroad tracks of the Main Street Train Station. The orange-hued flag proudly displays a Mickey Mouse face, welcoming all who leave today and enter the world of yesterday,tomorrow and fantasy.
A more elaborate flag with the silhouette of Sleeping Beauty Castle flies above the patio of Walt Disney's apartment next to City Hall. Both flags are still flown in the park.
DR LEE
Hidden Treasures in the Magic Kingdom:
The excitement of entering the Disneyland Resort can be overwhelming, it's easy to overlook small details. But if Guests look closely, they would discover hidden treasures in plain sight. Did you know Disneyland Park has it's very own flags?
The first flag flies high above the railroad tracks of the Main Street Train Station. The orange-hued flag proudly displays a Mickey Mouse face, welcoming all who leave today and enter the world of yesterday,tomorrow and fantasy.
A more elaborate flag with the silhouette of Sleeping Beauty Castle flies above the patio of Walt Disney's apartment next to City Hall. Both flags are still flown in the park.
DR LEE
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Strike up the band:
On July 17, 2010, current and former Disneyland Resort All-American College Band members will march down Main Street, U.S.A. to celebrate their 40th anniversary. What began at Disneyland Park in 1971 has become a beloved summer tradition.
Each year, the band consists of 21 of the top performing college musicians playing everything from a trombone to a mellophone to a piccdolo. Once students are accepted onto the program they are given 15 pieces of music to memorize before their first day. Throughout their time in Anaheim, students will attend workshops, perform and even "cut a record" at Capital Records in Hollywood.
This year's musical director, Dr. Ron McCurdy, a USC professor, was a student in the 1974 program at the Walt Disney World Resort.
Each year, one lucky band member is given the opportunity to return for a second summer to help the new students acclimate to their new roles. Scott Sidway has the honor of being the 2010 teaching assistant.
For Sidway the most important lesson he learned about success in the music industry wasn't about choreography or musical talent, it was that "no matter what aspect of life you are dealing with, you will truly be the successful and happiest if you treat everyone with respect. After working for Disney for 11 weeks, it became clear to me-and everyone in the band for that matter-that treating all people with respect is a key to success."
DR LEE
Each year, the band consists of 21 of the top performing college musicians playing everything from a trombone to a mellophone to a piccdolo. Once students are accepted onto the program they are given 15 pieces of music to memorize before their first day. Throughout their time in Anaheim, students will attend workshops, perform and even "cut a record" at Capital Records in Hollywood.
This year's musical director, Dr. Ron McCurdy, a USC professor, was a student in the 1974 program at the Walt Disney World Resort.
Each year, one lucky band member is given the opportunity to return for a second summer to help the new students acclimate to their new roles. Scott Sidway has the honor of being the 2010 teaching assistant.
For Sidway the most important lesson he learned about success in the music industry wasn't about choreography or musical talent, it was that "no matter what aspect of life you are dealing with, you will truly be the successful and happiest if you treat everyone with respect. After working for Disney for 11 weeks, it became clear to me-and everyone in the band for that matter-that treating all people with respect is a key to success."
DR LEE
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Disneyland History:
Disney enthusiasts know that Walt Disney pioneered the use of animation in motion pictures. However, Walt also utilized television programming to promote Disneyland Park before it opened in conjunction with his feature animation and live action projects when many producers thought television would cut into their profits. "Disneyland" the weekly television series ran from Oct.27, 1954 through Sept.3, 1958 continued for 25 more years with different titles.
The first episode was entitled "The Disneyland Story" and Walt gave viewers a tour of the Walt Disney Studios and a model of the under-construction Disneyland Park. The series was tied into the same realms that could be found at Disneyland that included Fantasyland episodes featuring Dumbo and Alice in Wonderland and in Frontierland, Walt show-cased live-action episodes of Davy Crockett.
Additionally, there were previews of Disneyland. Viewers were brimming with anticipation by the time Disneyland opened in July 1955 due to the TV program. The public was eager to enter a magical land where they could meet their childhood heroes, favorite characters and experience adventures they had only seen on television and on the silver screen.
Much like today, many people across the globe get excited to hear about what new and exciting experiences will be available when they visit the Disneyland Resort. If there is one constant in Disneyland history, it's that we will continue to grow and change as time goes on.
DR LEE
The first episode was entitled "The Disneyland Story" and Walt gave viewers a tour of the Walt Disney Studios and a model of the under-construction Disneyland Park. The series was tied into the same realms that could be found at Disneyland that included Fantasyland episodes featuring Dumbo and Alice in Wonderland and in Frontierland, Walt show-cased live-action episodes of Davy Crockett.
Additionally, there were previews of Disneyland. Viewers were brimming with anticipation by the time Disneyland opened in July 1955 due to the TV program. The public was eager to enter a magical land where they could meet their childhood heroes, favorite characters and experience adventures they had only seen on television and on the silver screen.
Much like today, many people across the globe get excited to hear about what new and exciting experiences will be available when they visit the Disneyland Resort. If there is one constant in Disneyland history, it's that we will continue to grow and change as time goes on.
DR LEE
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Toy Story 3
Toy Story 3, chock full of hidden facts and movie references:
Toy Story 3 has entertained childern and parents alike, to the tune of $110 million dollars in its opening weekend.
Chances are, considering the amount of money the film made over the weekend, that if you're reading this, there's a better than average chance you've seen the film. If you have, there are a few hidden "Easter Eggs"(the cinematic term for meaningful images or references buried in a movie) worthy of a second look. Even if you haven't seen "Toy Story 3," it's worth reading on for some fun facts you can impress your friends with.
Easter Eggs hiding in Toy Story 3:
"A113," the number of a classroom at CalTech where many Pixar animators studied, shows up as an Easter Egg in every Pixar Film. In the "Toy Story" series, it's the license plate on Andy's mother car.
Sid, the bully from the first movie who wears a skull T-shirt, appears as a garbage man in the new film wearing the same skull T-shirt.
There's a postcard on Andy's dresser addressed from the featured characters from last year's "Up," Carl and Ellie Fredrickson.
Lightning McQueen from "Cars" is referenced a few times throughout the film: A miniature toy car at the daycare center, on a child's shirt at the center and on a fictional train that shares McQueen's number, 95.
A calendar from Pizza Planet is clearly seen. Pizza Planet has appeared in every Pixar film except "The Incredibles."
Pixar has a history of hiding a character to be featured in a later movie somewhere in a current film. Nemo first appeared in "Monsters, Inc." and Toy Story 3 newcomer, Lots-o-Huggins Bear(who, ironically, is not very huggable), first appeared alongside a bed in "Up." A poster on Andy's wall shows a character from next year's "Cars 2." It shows Finn McMissile, a British sports car/secret agent who plays a major role in the sequel.
Buzz Lightyear's batteries are from "Buy 'N' Large," the giant corporation responsible for ruining the planet in "Wall-E."
Totoro, the furry, friendly creature from Hayao Miyazaki"s Japanese animated classic "My Neighbor Totoro," shows up as a toy that Woody meets. Pixar founder John Lasseter has called Miyazaki an inspiration for his work, and Lasseter produced his most recent film, "Ponyo."
A significant amount of the film takes place at a daycare center. At the daycare center, Mr. Ray the Scientific Stingray from "Finding Nemo' makes a cameo. Nemo himself appears as a sticker on Andy's toybox.
Toy Story 3 director Lee Unkrich performs one line in the movie, as the voice of the Jack in the Box character.
The Toy Story 3 screenplay took 2 1/2 years to write and storyboard.
John Ratzenberger keeps his streak alive of appearing in every single Pixar film made to this point. For Toy Story 3,he reprises his role as Hamm.
Ken, voiced by Michael Keaton, was based on a 1988 version of him called "Animal Lovin' Ken" which included his "own chimpanzee to care for and love." Um,okay. The Barbie featured in the film is based on a 1983 verion titled "Great Shape Barbie."
Ken wears 21 different outfits in the movie.
Woody has 229 animation points of movement in his face. Buzz has 215 animation avatars in his face.
There are 302 characters in the film.
"Toy Story 3" marks the "best opening weekend in the history of Pixar," which is quite a feat, considering all eleven Pixar films have opened as the number "one" in their respective weekend. "Toy Story 3" is the first film in the "Toy Story" series to be released in the very lucrative 3D format. Considering the added cost per ticket, plus the demand to see the film, it's little surprised that "Toy Story 3" is on pace to pass the $400 million mark in domestic box office.
DR LEE
P.S.I have seen Toy Story 3 in 3D,amazing and thrilling. If you have not seen it, what are you waiting for, enjoy......Dr Lee
Toy Story 3 has entertained childern and parents alike, to the tune of $110 million dollars in its opening weekend.
Chances are, considering the amount of money the film made over the weekend, that if you're reading this, there's a better than average chance you've seen the film. If you have, there are a few hidden "Easter Eggs"(the cinematic term for meaningful images or references buried in a movie) worthy of a second look. Even if you haven't seen "Toy Story 3," it's worth reading on for some fun facts you can impress your friends with.
Easter Eggs hiding in Toy Story 3:
"A113," the number of a classroom at CalTech where many Pixar animators studied, shows up as an Easter Egg in every Pixar Film. In the "Toy Story" series, it's the license plate on Andy's mother car.
Sid, the bully from the first movie who wears a skull T-shirt, appears as a garbage man in the new film wearing the same skull T-shirt.
There's a postcard on Andy's dresser addressed from the featured characters from last year's "Up," Carl and Ellie Fredrickson.
Lightning McQueen from "Cars" is referenced a few times throughout the film: A miniature toy car at the daycare center, on a child's shirt at the center and on a fictional train that shares McQueen's number, 95.
A calendar from Pizza Planet is clearly seen. Pizza Planet has appeared in every Pixar film except "The Incredibles."
Pixar has a history of hiding a character to be featured in a later movie somewhere in a current film. Nemo first appeared in "Monsters, Inc." and Toy Story 3 newcomer, Lots-o-Huggins Bear(who, ironically, is not very huggable), first appeared alongside a bed in "Up." A poster on Andy's wall shows a character from next year's "Cars 2." It shows Finn McMissile, a British sports car/secret agent who plays a major role in the sequel.
Buzz Lightyear's batteries are from "Buy 'N' Large," the giant corporation responsible for ruining the planet in "Wall-E."
Totoro, the furry, friendly creature from Hayao Miyazaki"s Japanese animated classic "My Neighbor Totoro," shows up as a toy that Woody meets. Pixar founder John Lasseter has called Miyazaki an inspiration for his work, and Lasseter produced his most recent film, "Ponyo."
A significant amount of the film takes place at a daycare center. At the daycare center, Mr. Ray the Scientific Stingray from "Finding Nemo' makes a cameo. Nemo himself appears as a sticker on Andy's toybox.
Toy Story 3 director Lee Unkrich performs one line in the movie, as the voice of the Jack in the Box character.
The Toy Story 3 screenplay took 2 1/2 years to write and storyboard.
John Ratzenberger keeps his streak alive of appearing in every single Pixar film made to this point. For Toy Story 3,he reprises his role as Hamm.
Ken, voiced by Michael Keaton, was based on a 1988 version of him called "Animal Lovin' Ken" which included his "own chimpanzee to care for and love." Um,okay. The Barbie featured in the film is based on a 1983 verion titled "Great Shape Barbie."
Ken wears 21 different outfits in the movie.
Woody has 229 animation points of movement in his face. Buzz has 215 animation avatars in his face.
There are 302 characters in the film.
"Toy Story 3" marks the "best opening weekend in the history of Pixar," which is quite a feat, considering all eleven Pixar films have opened as the number "one" in their respective weekend. "Toy Story 3" is the first film in the "Toy Story" series to be released in the very lucrative 3D format. Considering the added cost per ticket, plus the demand to see the film, it's little surprised that "Toy Story 3" is on pace to pass the $400 million mark in domestic box office.
DR LEE
P.S.I have seen Toy Story 3 in 3D,amazing and thrilling. If you have not seen it, what are you waiting for, enjoy......Dr Lee
Monday, June 21, 2010
A look back at Disneyland history:
In the book, Walt Disney: An American Original by Bob Thomas, is a reprint of Walt and Lillian's 30th anniversary party invitations. The celebration for 300 lucky individuals was called "Tempus Fugit Celebration," a Latin expression which translates as "time flies."
Where... Disneyland, where there is plenty of room!!!!
When... Wednesday, July 13,1955 at six o'clock in the afternoon!!!
Why...because we have been married 30 years!!!
How...by cruising down the Mississippi on the Mark Twain's maiden voyage, followed by dinner at Slue-Foot Sue's Golden Horseshoe!!!
Hope you can make it...by the way.no gifts,please-we have everything,including a grandson!!!
DR LEE
Where... Disneyland, where there is plenty of room!!!!
When... Wednesday, July 13,1955 at six o'clock in the afternoon!!!
Why...because we have been married 30 years!!!
How...by cruising down the Mississippi on the Mark Twain's maiden voyage, followed by dinner at Slue-Foot Sue's Golden Horseshoe!!!
Hope you can make it...by the way.no gifts,please-we have everything,including a grandson!!!
DR LEE
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
A look back at Disneyland history:
Just an orange field in Anaheim...that is all anyone else would have seen driving on Interstate 5 in the early 1950s, but Walt Disney envisioned "The Happiest Place on Earth."
Who could Walt entrust to construct his grand dream? None other than retired U.S. Naval Admiral Joe Fowler, referred to as the "can do" man for his optimistic spirit for accomplishing the impossible. Admiral Fowler, a veteran of both world wars, would, as Walt put it,"make his creative ideas engineering realities."
Less than a year of construction under Admiral Fowler's direction is all it took to bring Walt's dream to life. On the 10th anniversary of Disneyland Park, Walt recalled meeting the admiral.
"...So we were told about this retired admiral," said Walt in his speech. "He had run the San Francisco Navy Yard, had built ships in China and all that. He was starting a subdivision in San Jose. So I remember, I went to see him. We met Joe at his home with his lovely wife, and we had dinner together. We had steaks that were wonderful, so we sort of prevailed upon him to come down and be a consultant for us. Little by little, we got him trapped that he said, 'To hell with the subdivision."
Admiral Fowler would go on to work in management and brought one of Walt's final dreams to life when he helped design and build the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.
In Disneyland Park, when cruising down the Rivers of America on the Mark Twain look along the banks behind Harbour Gallery and you will see Fowler's Inn, a tribute to this Disney Legend.
DR LEE
Who could Walt entrust to construct his grand dream? None other than retired U.S. Naval Admiral Joe Fowler, referred to as the "can do" man for his optimistic spirit for accomplishing the impossible. Admiral Fowler, a veteran of both world wars, would, as Walt put it,"make his creative ideas engineering realities."
Less than a year of construction under Admiral Fowler's direction is all it took to bring Walt's dream to life. On the 10th anniversary of Disneyland Park, Walt recalled meeting the admiral.
"...So we were told about this retired admiral," said Walt in his speech. "He had run the San Francisco Navy Yard, had built ships in China and all that. He was starting a subdivision in San Jose. So I remember, I went to see him. We met Joe at his home with his lovely wife, and we had dinner together. We had steaks that were wonderful, so we sort of prevailed upon him to come down and be a consultant for us. Little by little, we got him trapped that he said, 'To hell with the subdivision."
Admiral Fowler would go on to work in management and brought one of Walt's final dreams to life when he helped design and build the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.
In Disneyland Park, when cruising down the Rivers of America on the Mark Twain look along the banks behind Harbour Gallery and you will see Fowler's Inn, a tribute to this Disney Legend.
DR LEE
Homage to "Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color":
With the World of Color nighttime water spectacular just around the corner, some Guests and Cast Members may wonder about the origin of the production's name.
Walt Disney had a long presence on television when his black-and-white television series, "Walt Disney Presents" was re-named and debuted on NBC as "Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color" in 1961. The ability to present every color of the rainbow brought a new vibrancy to Walt's classic storytelling.
A striking kaleidoscope of brilliant and beautiful colors highlighted the opening sequence featuring the song "The Wonderful World of Color", penned by Richard M. Sherman, who received a window on Main Street, U.S.A. this past March. A special character was on hand to explain the principles of color to the audience-Ludwig Von Drake- who also happened to be Donald Duck's uncle.
Color television empowered Walt to take entertainment to a new level for his audiences, just as World of Color will for Guests this summer in Disney's California Adventure.
DR LEE
Walt Disney had a long presence on television when his black-and-white television series, "Walt Disney Presents" was re-named and debuted on NBC as "Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color" in 1961. The ability to present every color of the rainbow brought a new vibrancy to Walt's classic storytelling.
A striking kaleidoscope of brilliant and beautiful colors highlighted the opening sequence featuring the song "The Wonderful World of Color", penned by Richard M. Sherman, who received a window on Main Street, U.S.A. this past March. A special character was on hand to explain the principles of color to the audience-Ludwig Von Drake- who also happened to be Donald Duck's uncle.
Color television empowered Walt to take entertainment to a new level for his audiences, just as World of Color will for Guests this summer in Disney's California Adventure.
DR LEE
Seeing the night in a whole new Light:
Summer nights at the Disneyland Resort will be brighter and more exciting than ever as Summer Nightastic! returns June 11 through Augest 29 with the addition of the all-new World of Color nighttime water spectacular and new characters in the Toy Story Midway Mania! attraction.
With the June 18 release of the Disney/Pixar animated motion picture Toy Story 3, a new game and some new characters from the film will take their places in the "virtual midway" of the Toy Story Midway Mania! attraction along Paradise Pier in Disney's California Adventure. Guests who experience the interactive ride-game attraction will encounter newly added challenges presented by fun, fresh faces this summer. In addition, there will be opportunities for up-close interaction with an added character,Lots-o'-Huggin'Bear from the latest film.
Returning this summer, by popular demand from its debut last year is "Magical," a breathtaking fireworks celebration that will light up the night sky along with Tinker Bell and Dumbo,the flying elephant. Tink will wave her wand to awaken an array of magical Disney characters: Pinocchio,Mary Poppins, Cinderella's Fairy Godmother,and the three good fairies from Sleeping Beauty.
Adding to the excitement of Summer Nightastic is Fantasmic!, a long standing Guest favorite, featuring a 40-foot-tall, fire-breathing dragon;TLT Dance Club,where live DJs and bands perform nightly at Tomorrowland Terrace; and Pixie Hollow Enchantment,the home of Tinker bell and her fairy friends.
For complete information and details, visit disneyland.com/summer.
DR LEE
With the June 18 release of the Disney/Pixar animated motion picture Toy Story 3, a new game and some new characters from the film will take their places in the "virtual midway" of the Toy Story Midway Mania! attraction along Paradise Pier in Disney's California Adventure. Guests who experience the interactive ride-game attraction will encounter newly added challenges presented by fun, fresh faces this summer. In addition, there will be opportunities for up-close interaction with an added character,Lots-o'-Huggin'Bear from the latest film.
Returning this summer, by popular demand from its debut last year is "Magical," a breathtaking fireworks celebration that will light up the night sky along with Tinker Bell and Dumbo,the flying elephant. Tink will wave her wand to awaken an array of magical Disney characters: Pinocchio,Mary Poppins, Cinderella's Fairy Godmother,and the three good fairies from Sleeping Beauty.
Adding to the excitement of Summer Nightastic is Fantasmic!, a long standing Guest favorite, featuring a 40-foot-tall, fire-breathing dragon;TLT Dance Club,where live DJs and bands perform nightly at Tomorrowland Terrace; and Pixie Hollow Enchantment,the home of Tinker bell and her fairy friends.
For complete information and details, visit disneyland.com/summer.
DR LEE
Monday, June 14, 2010
So you want dinner at the bar,well, here is the "Dinner" Menu,prepared by Dr Lee:
1... COCKTAIL MUSHROOM
2... COCKTAIL ONION
3... COCKTAIL OLIVE
4... LIME WEDGE
5... LEMON SLICE
6... RED CHERRY
7... ORANGE SLICE
Bar is open!!!
DR LEE
2... COCKTAIL ONION
3... COCKTAIL OLIVE
4... LIME WEDGE
5... LEMON SLICE
6... RED CHERRY
7... ORANGE SLICE
Bar is open!!!
DR LEE
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Minnie's Yoo Hoo Theater Sing Along
Courtesy of CartoonShortsClub via You Tube, you'll enjoy this wonderful cartoon of Minnie's Yoo Hoo! Most of you younger Disney fans probably haven't seen this, but in the late 20's and through the early 30's massive groups of kids would fill the local theaters as part of the Mickey Mouse Club. They would play this and all of the kids (and adults) would sing along and participate. Imagine what that must have been like with Model A and Model Fords buzzing up and down the street while Walt and Roy struggled to keep their tiny Los Angeles cartoon companies door open!
Ub Iwerks was one of the key animators on this film.
Did you know that Walt and Ub were, at one time, going to call their studio
Disney-Iwerks, but Walt felt people might think it was an optometry shop!
Walt never gave up and he never lost hope, even after Iwerks left him to work for the competition. Iwerks returned to Disney years later and went on to invent the multi-plane camera which is now on display at the Disney Studio in Burbank.
Ub Iwerks was one of the key animators on this film.
Did you know that Walt and Ub were, at one time, going to call their studio
Disney-Iwerks, but Walt felt people might think it was an optometry shop!
Walt never gave up and he never lost hope, even after Iwerks left him to work for the competition. Iwerks returned to Disney years later and went on to invent the multi-plane camera which is now on display at the Disney Studio in Burbank.
Walt Disney's Time lapse video of Disneyland's Construction
Have a few moments? Check out these wonderful time lapse videos of Disneyland's construction courtesy of theeditor84 via You Tube! These are simply amazing videos and you'll love them!
One thing which is typical of Walt, was that he new the park was going to be a success and he didn't tell many people about these cameras.
One thing which is typical of Walt, was that he new the park was going to be a success and he didn't tell many people about these cameras.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Did you know ???
Disneyland construction Fun Facts....
1...2,000,000 board feet of lumber were used.
2...1,000,000 square feet of asphalt had paved the streets.
3...5,000 cubic yards of concrete had been poured,and 70 times that volume of earth was stacked and compressed into the berm around the park.
4...12,000 walnut and orange trees had to be removed.
DR LEE
1...2,000,000 board feet of lumber were used.
2...1,000,000 square feet of asphalt had paved the streets.
3...5,000 cubic yards of concrete had been poured,and 70 times that volume of earth was stacked and compressed into the berm around the park.
4...12,000 walnut and orange trees had to be removed.
DR LEE
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
A look back at Disneyland history:
Main Street,U.S.A. creates a warm, nostalgic feeling in the hearts of Guests young and old. The clacking of horseshoes and inviting scent of freshly baked waffle cones harken to a bygone era and often marks the start of what is sure to be an unforgettable day.
The welcoming charm of Main Street,U.S.A. also holds a special place in the hearts of Cast Members. Among the architecture of the shops resides our own hall of fame-windows dedicated to those who have made a lasting impression on our Resort, and Walt Disney himself.
Honorees who have been immortalized with a window boast impressive backgrounds. Elias Disney, Walt's father, worked as a contractor and inspired Walt on his journey in creating Disneyland. X. Atencio penned the lyrics for every scalawag's theme song - "Yo Ho (A Pirate's Life For Me)." Harriet Burns designed and constructed the chorus of birds for The Enchanted Tiki Room. The list goes on and on, and in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Disneyland in 2005, all Cast Members were recognized with their very own window for the impact that each and every one of us makes on Walt Disney's original vision.
DR LEE
The welcoming charm of Main Street,U.S.A. also holds a special place in the hearts of Cast Members. Among the architecture of the shops resides our own hall of fame-windows dedicated to those who have made a lasting impression on our Resort, and Walt Disney himself.
Honorees who have been immortalized with a window boast impressive backgrounds. Elias Disney, Walt's father, worked as a contractor and inspired Walt on his journey in creating Disneyland. X. Atencio penned the lyrics for every scalawag's theme song - "Yo Ho (A Pirate's Life For Me)." Harriet Burns designed and constructed the chorus of birds for The Enchanted Tiki Room. The list goes on and on, and in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Disneyland in 2005, all Cast Members were recognized with their very own window for the impact that each and every one of us makes on Walt Disney's original vision.
DR LEE
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
What Every Disney Fan Needs In Their Living Room!
Custom built using an animatronic ship's wheel, medical school skeleton and several pieces from the Pirates of the Caribbean films, the piece is a cross between the POTC attraction and Curse of the Black Pearl. Complete with aged cutlass, Davey Jones' key, Elizabeth Swann's necklace, this pirate is ready to sail for eternity, never leaving the ship's helm.
The seaweed is actually left over from a recent Disney World submarine ride refurbishment. The prop is remote controlled and features a blower in the deck which blows air upwards, making the helmsman appear to be sailing into the wind. Featured behind the rear stanchion is an actual black light, which helps to give additional character to the attraction piece during the hours of darkness. An authentic 2 inch ship's rope is curled upon the deck, but like the wood, it has been aged to appear deteriorated and moldy. Not quite visible around his waist is a two inch wide leather belt with aged buckle and the saber is actually new, but was carefully aged to appear rusty and well used.
Props such as this are a testament as to how the creative minds at Disney influence people and impact their lives in many ways. Having a small piece of Disneyland within your home, helps to make one remember the many joyous times which were had within the park with family and friends. Life is short, make the most of each day! If the neighbors think you're, well, strange, well, that's OK and it's truly their loss.
The seaweed is actually left over from a recent Disney World submarine ride refurbishment. The prop is remote controlled and features a blower in the deck which blows air upwards, making the helmsman appear to be sailing into the wind. Featured behind the rear stanchion is an actual black light, which helps to give additional character to the attraction piece during the hours of darkness. An authentic 2 inch ship's rope is curled upon the deck, but like the wood, it has been aged to appear deteriorated and moldy. Not quite visible around his waist is a two inch wide leather belt with aged buckle and the saber is actually new, but was carefully aged to appear rusty and well used.
Props such as this are a testament as to how the creative minds at Disney influence people and impact their lives in many ways. Having a small piece of Disneyland within your home, helps to make one remember the many joyous times which were had within the park with family and friends. Life is short, make the most of each day! If the neighbors think you're, well, strange, well, that's OK and it's truly their loss.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Micky,Minnie or Goofy?
Make all your family"s vacation dreams come true with a Resort Hotel vacation package! Stay in the heart of the magic at one of the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort, each of which offers a distinctive Disney experience. Each hotel is footsteps away from Disneyland Park and Disney's California Adventure Park.
Come realize your dreams today and create new ones for tomorrow! Plus, get a very special call welcoming you to Disneyland Resort from "Mickey, Minnie or Goofy!!" 2010 Vacation packages are available for arrivals January 5,2010-January 4,2011.
Resort Hotel vacation package includes:
Accommodations at Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel, the Disneyland Hotel, or Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa.
1...Self Parking
2...Fitness Center Access
3...Recreational Facilities
Convenient access to the Theme Parks from all Hotels of the Disneyland Resort, and an exclusive entrance into Disney's California Adventure Park for all hotels Guests.
Disneyland Resort Park Hopper souvenir ticket*, valid for same day entry into both Disneyland Park and Disney's California Adventure Park.
1...One Magic Morning** admission into selected attractions at a designated Disneyland Resort Theme park, valid with Disneyland Resort Park Hopper souvenir tickets of 3-Days or longer.
Disney Character Calls- Receive a phone call from Mickey, Minnie or Goofy!
Mickey's Toontown Morning Madness***-an interactive Guest and Character experience.
Preferred seating to select shows in Disney's California Adventure Park.
EXCLUSIVE! Walt Disney Travel Company Collectible Pin & Lanyard (one per person)
* Tickets may not be sold or transferred for commercial use. Offer may not be combined with other discounts or promotions.
** Magic Morning allows admission into select attractions at Disneyland Park before the park opens to the public on Sunday,Tuesday,Thursday or Saturday. Based on availability and subject to restrictions. Applicable days and times of operation and all other elements including, but not limited to, operation of attrations, entertainment, stores and restaurants and appearances of Characters may vary and are subject to change witout notice.
*** Operation of attractions, entertainment, stores and restaurants, and appearance of Characters may vary and are subject to change without notice. Each Guest must have a valid multi-day admission media from Walt Disney Travel Company in order to enter Disneyland Park and Mickey's Toontown.
All features of tickets, offers,events,age ranges,services, attractions and entertainment may be seasonal and are subject to change without notice.
DR LEE
Come realize your dreams today and create new ones for tomorrow! Plus, get a very special call welcoming you to Disneyland Resort from "Mickey, Minnie or Goofy!!" 2010 Vacation packages are available for arrivals January 5,2010-January 4,2011.
Resort Hotel vacation package includes:
Accommodations at Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel, the Disneyland Hotel, or Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa.
1...Self Parking
2...Fitness Center Access
3...Recreational Facilities
Convenient access to the Theme Parks from all Hotels of the Disneyland Resort, and an exclusive entrance into Disney's California Adventure Park for all hotels Guests.
Disneyland Resort Park Hopper souvenir ticket*, valid for same day entry into both Disneyland Park and Disney's California Adventure Park.
1...One Magic Morning** admission into selected attractions at a designated Disneyland Resort Theme park, valid with Disneyland Resort Park Hopper souvenir tickets of 3-Days or longer.
Disney Character Calls- Receive a phone call from Mickey, Minnie or Goofy!
Mickey's Toontown Morning Madness***-an interactive Guest and Character experience.
Preferred seating to select shows in Disney's California Adventure Park.
EXCLUSIVE! Walt Disney Travel Company Collectible Pin & Lanyard (one per person)
* Tickets may not be sold or transferred for commercial use. Offer may not be combined with other discounts or promotions.
** Magic Morning allows admission into select attractions at Disneyland Park before the park opens to the public on Sunday,Tuesday,Thursday or Saturday. Based on availability and subject to restrictions. Applicable days and times of operation and all other elements including, but not limited to, operation of attrations, entertainment, stores and restaurants and appearances of Characters may vary and are subject to change witout notice.
*** Operation of attractions, entertainment, stores and restaurants, and appearance of Characters may vary and are subject to change without notice. Each Guest must have a valid multi-day admission media from Walt Disney Travel Company in order to enter Disneyland Park and Mickey's Toontown.
All features of tickets, offers,events,age ranges,services, attractions and entertainment may be seasonal and are subject to change without notice.
DR LEE
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Four Hour Tour Plan: Disneyland,
Before you go... Avoid the wait at the park's ticket booth's by buying your tickets online at the Disneyland website and printing them out at home. Keep in mind, unlike Walt Disney World tickets, there is no option to buy an upgrade that keeps your Disneyland tickets from expiring 14 days after first use. So do not buy more days than you will use on this trip. If you wish to upgrade your ticket to add additional days once you arrive, you can do so through Disney's Guest Relations desk at City Hall.
Disneyland is much smaller than Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, yet gets almost as many Guests, so Disneyland Resort can get quite crowded. Try to avoid weekends, as well the week between Christmas and New Years's,to avoid the largest crowds. Pick early June over late August for summer vaction trip, with most Southern California schools start and end their year late.
Part of this plan includes lunch at the Blue Bayou Restaurant,located within the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction. You will need to make your reservations weeks in advance,by calling Disney Dining at 714-781-3463. Reguest a waterside table when making your reservations and be as sweet as you can, these tables are hard to get.
When you get there... Most Guests arrive at the Disneyland Resort by way of car,and most will park in the Mickey and Friends parking structure and take the tram to the Disneyland Resort. Also note, there is a new parking area on the other side of the Disneyland Resort,near Katella and Harbor called "Toy Story parking lot," parking there is easy and you can buy tickets there with a major cerdit card, no cash. Let me make a note here, I have parked here and have rode the "Blue" Toy Story Buses,I think this is faster than parking at the Mickey and Friends Parking structure.(once on the Blue Bus, it travels through the Cast Member parking lot. Take a good look, these cars represent why you as a Guest,are here,Cast Members making Disney Magic and Disney family memories).
Once in the park at opening, check hours at Disneyland.com, head down Main Street U.S.A. and turn right into Tomorrowland for your first attraction of the day,Space Mountain.
Exiting Space Mountain, head left, back toward Main Street U.S.A.,stopping by the Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters attraction.
Now it is time to head across Main Street U.S.A. towards Adventureland, where you will need to stop to get a FastPass for Indiana Jones Adventure, which you will see later in the morning.
Walk past the Treehouse and down around the Rivers of America towards Critter Country arriving at Splash Mountain.
After Splash Mountain, head over to the Haunted Mansion attraction.
Next, it will be on to New Orleans Square to the Disneyland classic, Pirates of the Caribbean.
Remember that FastPass for Indiana Jones Adventure,well after Pirates of the Caribbean, you will be thankful and be able to walk almost right into this attraction.
Finish up your morning by walking back to New Orleans Square and into the cool and dark Blue Bayou Restaurant for your waterside table lunch. If you were not able to get reservations,at the Blue Bayou Restaurant,try Downtown Disney shopping district, lots of sit-down restaurants, located outside of the Main Entrance.
After lunch and a little "down time" enjoy the Disneyland Resort, wandering around with-out a """"PLAN."""
DR LEE
Disneyland is much smaller than Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, yet gets almost as many Guests, so Disneyland Resort can get quite crowded. Try to avoid weekends, as well the week between Christmas and New Years's,to avoid the largest crowds. Pick early June over late August for summer vaction trip, with most Southern California schools start and end their year late.
Part of this plan includes lunch at the Blue Bayou Restaurant,located within the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction. You will need to make your reservations weeks in advance,by calling Disney Dining at 714-781-3463. Reguest a waterside table when making your reservations and be as sweet as you can, these tables are hard to get.
When you get there... Most Guests arrive at the Disneyland Resort by way of car,and most will park in the Mickey and Friends parking structure and take the tram to the Disneyland Resort. Also note, there is a new parking area on the other side of the Disneyland Resort,near Katella and Harbor called "Toy Story parking lot," parking there is easy and you can buy tickets there with a major cerdit card, no cash. Let me make a note here, I have parked here and have rode the "Blue" Toy Story Buses,I think this is faster than parking at the Mickey and Friends Parking structure.(once on the Blue Bus, it travels through the Cast Member parking lot. Take a good look, these cars represent why you as a Guest,are here,Cast Members making Disney Magic and Disney family memories).
Once in the park at opening, check hours at Disneyland.com, head down Main Street U.S.A. and turn right into Tomorrowland for your first attraction of the day,Space Mountain.
Exiting Space Mountain, head left, back toward Main Street U.S.A.,stopping by the Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters attraction.
Now it is time to head across Main Street U.S.A. towards Adventureland, where you will need to stop to get a FastPass for Indiana Jones Adventure, which you will see later in the morning.
Walk past the Treehouse and down around the Rivers of America towards Critter Country arriving at Splash Mountain.
After Splash Mountain, head over to the Haunted Mansion attraction.
Next, it will be on to New Orleans Square to the Disneyland classic, Pirates of the Caribbean.
Remember that FastPass for Indiana Jones Adventure,well after Pirates of the Caribbean, you will be thankful and be able to walk almost right into this attraction.
Finish up your morning by walking back to New Orleans Square and into the cool and dark Blue Bayou Restaurant for your waterside table lunch. If you were not able to get reservations,at the Blue Bayou Restaurant,try Downtown Disney shopping district, lots of sit-down restaurants, located outside of the Main Entrance.
After lunch and a little "down time" enjoy the Disneyland Resort, wandering around with-out a """"PLAN."""
DR LEE
Monday, May 17, 2010
PlantBottle, a friend of the environment:
The Coca-Cola company has unveiled a plastic bottle made partially from plants. The PlantBottle is fully recyclable, has a lower reliance on a non-renewable resource and reduces carbon emissions; it's currently being used with Dasani bottled water throughout the Disneyland Resort.
DR LEE
DR LEE
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
World of Color scheduled for debut:
Lights, water, music, fire and animation will come together like never before on June 11,2010 when World of Color makes its debut at Disney's California Adventure. The show is choreographed with revolutionary technology that creates a palyful, nighttime spectacular and a new way for guests to experience Disney stories.
DR LEE
DR LEE
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
A Look back at Disneyland history:
The 55th anniversary of Disneyland Park is fast approaching. Throughout those 55 years,many attractions have contributed to the rich history of quality entertainment at the park, making the Resort a permier destination for family entertainment.
The following attractions have been a staple since 1955; Main Street Cinema, the Penny Arcade, Mark Twain Riverboat, Mad Tea Party,Casey Jr. Train (opened about a week after opening),Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, Snow White's Scary Adventures, Jungle Cruise,Peter Pan's Flight, King Arthur Carrousel,Autopia, the Disneyland Railroad and the Main Street Vehicles including Horse-Drawn Street Cars.
The Jungle Cruise attraction displayed Walt Disney's passion for wildlife and one of the original concepts for the Jungle Cruise involved live exotic animals as a part of a more serious venture into the unexplored jungle. Some of the original skipper dialogue from 1955 was so clever, the spiels are still used today.
Thurl Ravenscroft also contributed his vocal talents to some original attractions that were replaced in 2001 including the Mark Twain Riverboat and the Disneyland Railroad. However, if you listen carefully, yopu can hear his unique deep voice in the chorus of " You Can Fly " on Peter Pans Flight.
Just a quick side note,Dr Lee was a Attractions Host on the Mark Twain Riverboat and a Skipper on the Jungle Cruise Xmas of 81 thru April 82,before transfering to Club 33.
DR LEE
The following attractions have been a staple since 1955; Main Street Cinema, the Penny Arcade, Mark Twain Riverboat, Mad Tea Party,Casey Jr. Train (opened about a week after opening),Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, Snow White's Scary Adventures, Jungle Cruise,Peter Pan's Flight, King Arthur Carrousel,Autopia, the Disneyland Railroad and the Main Street Vehicles including Horse-Drawn Street Cars.
The Jungle Cruise attraction displayed Walt Disney's passion for wildlife and one of the original concepts for the Jungle Cruise involved live exotic animals as a part of a more serious venture into the unexplored jungle. Some of the original skipper dialogue from 1955 was so clever, the spiels are still used today.
Thurl Ravenscroft also contributed his vocal talents to some original attractions that were replaced in 2001 including the Mark Twain Riverboat and the Disneyland Railroad. However, if you listen carefully, yopu can hear his unique deep voice in the chorus of " You Can Fly " on Peter Pans Flight.
Just a quick side note,Dr Lee was a Attractions Host on the Mark Twain Riverboat and a Skipper on the Jungle Cruise Xmas of 81 thru April 82,before transfering to Club 33.
DR LEE
Pastries are Grand!
For many years Disneyland baked their own pastries and desserts, keeping to strict recipes developed by in-house chefs. As the park grew, this changed, and the baking was contracted out to specific commercial bakeries near Anaheim. This maintained fresh products, delivered quickly per the park's needs.
With the building of California Adventure and the Grand Californian, more room was available and Disney executives requested that kitchen space be increased to assist with in-house production for all of Disneyland's restaurants and eateries.
One of these kitchens was dedicated towards desserts and a pastry chef was hired to supervise and create.
As a result, the desserts served at Club 33 are now baked fresh daily within the Grand Californian kitchen complex. Quality and portion control are carefully supervised and continuity is maintained without the normal worries associated with outside contractors.
I can't help but think Walt would be proud of this. He was meticulous and sometimes very hard to please, as he pushed his employees to not only meet his high expectations, but surpass their own, unpolished/non-perfected abilities! If you were a good animator or artist, you could rest assured that after working at the Disney Studio, you would soon be a great artist and able to write your own ticket if searching for a new venue.
My personal recommendation for dessert at Club 33 is the Boston Cream Pie!
This wonderfully inventive creation is about the size of a common custard filled doughnut, but don't let that fool you, it's not a doughnut. In fact, should someone call it anything but a pastry, it would probably walk off your plate, cursing at you as it strolled out the Club 33 door, never to return again!
This thing is rich, like, Rolls Royce Phantom rich.
On the side is a delicious sweet rhubarb compote, reduced to it's most flavorful essence. Add a cup of Club 33's dark French roast coffee, and you'll be a happy camper, ready to take on the Haunted Mansion or Pirates of the Caribbean.
Enjoy your visit to the club, say howdy to my good friend Curt, and tell the new bartender that your drink was good, but Dr. Lee's were better! HAHA! Don't really say that, I'm joking:)
With the building of California Adventure and the Grand Californian, more room was available and Disney executives requested that kitchen space be increased to assist with in-house production for all of Disneyland's restaurants and eateries.
One of these kitchens was dedicated towards desserts and a pastry chef was hired to supervise and create.
As a result, the desserts served at Club 33 are now baked fresh daily within the Grand Californian kitchen complex. Quality and portion control are carefully supervised and continuity is maintained without the normal worries associated with outside contractors.
I can't help but think Walt would be proud of this. He was meticulous and sometimes very hard to please, as he pushed his employees to not only meet his high expectations, but surpass their own, unpolished/non-perfected abilities! If you were a good animator or artist, you could rest assured that after working at the Disney Studio, you would soon be a great artist and able to write your own ticket if searching for a new venue.
My personal recommendation for dessert at Club 33 is the Boston Cream Pie!
This wonderfully inventive creation is about the size of a common custard filled doughnut, but don't let that fool you, it's not a doughnut. In fact, should someone call it anything but a pastry, it would probably walk off your plate, cursing at you as it strolled out the Club 33 door, never to return again!
This thing is rich, like, Rolls Royce Phantom rich.
On the side is a delicious sweet rhubarb compote, reduced to it's most flavorful essence. Add a cup of Club 33's dark French roast coffee, and you'll be a happy camper, ready to take on the Haunted Mansion or Pirates of the Caribbean.
Enjoy your visit to the club, say howdy to my good friend Curt, and tell the new bartender that your drink was good, but Dr. Lee's were better! HAHA! Don't really say that, I'm joking:)
Monday, May 10, 2010
Roof work in progress!
If you're visiting Club 33 in the next few weeks, don't be too surprised if the club is wrapped in canvas and scaffolding.
Apparently there is quite extensive construction in progress on the building's roof and safety is Disney's first concern. While the work is being completed, the Club 33 balconies will remain closed and balcony access will not be allowed.
Refurbishments such as this are quite common within the park during the Winter months when park attendance is decreased.
When Summer rolls around the park is painted, polished, and ready to dispense Pixie Dust only as Disney can!
Apparently there is quite extensive construction in progress on the building's roof and safety is Disney's first concern. While the work is being completed, the Club 33 balconies will remain closed and balcony access will not be allowed.
Refurbishments such as this are quite common within the park during the Winter months when park attendance is decreased.
When Summer rolls around the park is painted, polished, and ready to dispense Pixie Dust only as Disney can!
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
General Questions about Disneyland Resort:
...When is the best time to visit the Disneyland Resort;
Selecting the best time to visit the Disneyland Resort depends upon your interests.
If you want to visit when the number of Guests is fairly low, plan to stay mid-week (Tuesdays-Thursdays) during,mid-September through mid-November,or mid-January through mid-March, or mid-April through mid-May.
The benefit of visiting the Disneyland Resort when the number of Guests is low is that wait times are shorter and you can do and see more. However, Disney's California Adventure Park and Disneyland Park typically reduce their operating hours. Also, there may be fewer entertainment and events, and attractions are more frequently closed for refurbishment.
If you want to visit while the theme parks have extended hours,entertainment, events and most attractions operating, plan your stay for weekends, including extended holiday weekends during Christmas and Spring Break or June-Augest. Just note, that during these times, the Guest count is usually increased.
For complete list of hours, entertainment, events and refurbishments, contact Disneyland Resort Guest information at 714-781-7290.
...How can my family enjoy a visit with the Disney Characters;
The Disney Characters are scattered throughout the Disneyland Resort during your stay.
For information on where they can be found,visit any information center at either of the theme parks.
For information on dining experiences with the Characters,please visit Disneyland/Dining FAQ.com
...Do any of the Disneyland Resort restaurants accommodate special dietary needs?
The Disneyland Resort is pleased to offer vegetarian options at select restaurants. For Guest with other dietary needs,special arrangements can often be made at select table-service restaurants. Please contact Disney Dining at 714-781-DINE (3463) for any special requests.
...Can I visit both parks in one day?
Most 1-Day Tickets are only valid for one theme park, but you can "hop" from one park to the other the same day if;
You purchased a Multi-Day Park Hopper Ticket (also part of our Vacation Packages)
You are an Annual Passholder, or
You are staying at a Hotel of the Disneyland Resort Guest with an Ultimate Park Hopper Ticket.
...How do I find something I've lost at the Disneyland Resort?
The best way to find an item lost at the Disneyland Resort is to visit Lost & Found, which is located next to Guest Relations to the left of the Main entrance of Disney's California Adventure Park.
If you are not able to visit Lost &Found in person, you can call 714-817-2166 from 10:30a.m. to 6:00p.m. daily.
DR LEE
Selecting the best time to visit the Disneyland Resort depends upon your interests.
If you want to visit when the number of Guests is fairly low, plan to stay mid-week (Tuesdays-Thursdays) during,mid-September through mid-November,or mid-January through mid-March, or mid-April through mid-May.
The benefit of visiting the Disneyland Resort when the number of Guests is low is that wait times are shorter and you can do and see more. However, Disney's California Adventure Park and Disneyland Park typically reduce their operating hours. Also, there may be fewer entertainment and events, and attractions are more frequently closed for refurbishment.
If you want to visit while the theme parks have extended hours,entertainment, events and most attractions operating, plan your stay for weekends, including extended holiday weekends during Christmas and Spring Break or June-Augest. Just note, that during these times, the Guest count is usually increased.
For complete list of hours, entertainment, events and refurbishments, contact Disneyland Resort Guest information at 714-781-7290.
...How can my family enjoy a visit with the Disney Characters;
The Disney Characters are scattered throughout the Disneyland Resort during your stay.
For information on where they can be found,visit any information center at either of the theme parks.
For information on dining experiences with the Characters,please visit Disneyland/Dining FAQ.com
...Do any of the Disneyland Resort restaurants accommodate special dietary needs?
The Disneyland Resort is pleased to offer vegetarian options at select restaurants. For Guest with other dietary needs,special arrangements can often be made at select table-service restaurants. Please contact Disney Dining at 714-781-DINE (3463) for any special requests.
...Can I visit both parks in one day?
Most 1-Day Tickets are only valid for one theme park, but you can "hop" from one park to the other the same day if;
You purchased a Multi-Day Park Hopper Ticket (also part of our Vacation Packages)
You are an Annual Passholder, or
You are staying at a Hotel of the Disneyland Resort Guest with an Ultimate Park Hopper Ticket.
...How do I find something I've lost at the Disneyland Resort?
The best way to find an item lost at the Disneyland Resort is to visit Lost & Found, which is located next to Guest Relations to the left of the Main entrance of Disney's California Adventure Park.
If you are not able to visit Lost &Found in person, you can call 714-817-2166 from 10:30a.m. to 6:00p.m. daily.
DR LEE
Monday, May 3, 2010
Toy Store Mania:
For the first time, Disney is adding a new video game to it's Toy Story Mania attraction as a way to promote the up-coming movie sequel.
The Disney's California Adventure attraction, Guests go on carriages that transport them to compete in front of a series of 4-D video games based on the movie.
Disney designed the attraction so that games could easily be swapped out or up-dated, possibly for holidays. Next month, a new game will be added for the first time since the attraction opened.
This new game called "Rex and Trixie"s Dino Darts," which has Guests shoot virtual darts at balloon targets. The game will replace " Bo Peep's Baaa-Icon Pop,"in late May. A film date has yet to be released. Trixie is a new dinosaur character in " Toy Story 3" who will befriend Rex.
Other new characters from "Toy Story 3," set to be released June 18, also will appear in different scences within Toy Story Mania.
In addition to the new game, a new character from "Toy Story 3," called Lotso, is set to join the cast at Disney's California Adventure starting Sunday,May 2,2010. Lotso, short for Lots-0-Huggin Bear, will join the Pixar Parade and greet Guests.
This isn't the first time Disney has used the parks to promote upcoming films. For example, Disneyland sold merchandise, gave out free tickets, added characters and began a show based on "The Princess and the Frog" more than a month before the movie came out last year.
DR LEE
The Disney's California Adventure attraction, Guests go on carriages that transport them to compete in front of a series of 4-D video games based on the movie.
Disney designed the attraction so that games could easily be swapped out or up-dated, possibly for holidays. Next month, a new game will be added for the first time since the attraction opened.
This new game called "Rex and Trixie"s Dino Darts," which has Guests shoot virtual darts at balloon targets. The game will replace " Bo Peep's Baaa-Icon Pop,"in late May. A film date has yet to be released. Trixie is a new dinosaur character in " Toy Story 3" who will befriend Rex.
Other new characters from "Toy Story 3," set to be released June 18, also will appear in different scences within Toy Story Mania.
In addition to the new game, a new character from "Toy Story 3," called Lotso, is set to join the cast at Disney's California Adventure starting Sunday,May 2,2010. Lotso, short for Lots-0-Huggin Bear, will join the Pixar Parade and greet Guests.
This isn't the first time Disney has used the parks to promote upcoming films. For example, Disneyland sold merchandise, gave out free tickets, added characters and began a show based on "The Princess and the Frog" more than a month before the movie came out last year.
DR LEE
Rivers of America:
Disneyland last drained it's " Rivers of America" seven years ago.January of this year, Disneyland again drained Rivers of America,and workers found a few interesting items at the bottom???
Here are some of these items;
...Half of a canoe from Davy Crochett's Explore Canoes attraction,were is the "other" half ?
...Plastic swords?
...Mardi Gras beads. These were part of Tiana Showboat Jubilee, a show on the Mark Twain Riverboat on the rivers in the fall.
...Lots and lots of "cell phones" and walkie-talkies.
..."Hundreds" of baby pacifiers.
...Micky Mouse Hats.
...Sunglasses, lots.
There was a rumor of a "bowling ball," however that turned out to be false.
Also found, a bunch of fish,including koi, which were relocated to the Bear Creek area, another body of water. Some of those fish have now made their way to the moat around Sleeping Beauty Castle.
DR LEE
Here are some of these items;
...Half of a canoe from Davy Crochett's Explore Canoes attraction,were is the "other" half ?
...Plastic swords?
...Mardi Gras beads. These were part of Tiana Showboat Jubilee, a show on the Mark Twain Riverboat on the rivers in the fall.
...Lots and lots of "cell phones" and walkie-talkies.
..."Hundreds" of baby pacifiers.
...Micky Mouse Hats.
...Sunglasses, lots.
There was a rumor of a "bowling ball," however that turned out to be false.
Also found, a bunch of fish,including koi, which were relocated to the Bear Creek area, another body of water. Some of those fish have now made their way to the moat around Sleeping Beauty Castle.
DR LEE
Friday, April 30, 2010
TIPS AND FUN FACTS:
1... Pets are weclome at the Disneyland resort. Your pets may stay in air-conditioned comfort while you are enjoying the Disneyland Resort. Kennels are located on the Esplanade outside the Main Entrance of Disneyland Park.
2... Did you know that 20,000 gallons of paint are used at Disneyland Park,(not including Disney's California Adventure)each year to give its better-than-new look.
3... Guests of the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort may have their Resort purchases shipped directly to their hotel through Package Check Service. Check with a Cast Member for more information.
4... Use our Package Check Service. You may leave your purchases at the Newsstand (Main Entrance), Star Trader (Tomorrowland), or Pioneer Mercantile(Frontierland) while you enjoy Disneyland Park. Guests at Disney's California Adventure Park may leave their packages at Engine Ears Toys. Remember to pick up your purchases at the same location before you leave.
DR LEE
2... Did you know that 20,000 gallons of paint are used at Disneyland Park,(not including Disney's California Adventure)each year to give its better-than-new look.
3... Guests of the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort may have their Resort purchases shipped directly to their hotel through Package Check Service. Check with a Cast Member for more information.
4... Use our Package Check Service. You may leave your purchases at the Newsstand (Main Entrance), Star Trader (Tomorrowland), or Pioneer Mercantile(Frontierland) while you enjoy Disneyland Park. Guests at Disney's California Adventure Park may leave their packages at Engine Ears Toys. Remember to pick up your purchases at the same location before you leave.
DR LEE
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Direct and Easy Communication:
Leadership Weekly, is the first online communication tool designed for leaders across the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts to quickly find and share important local and global company messages.
Leaders now receive one comprehensive e-mail publication every Friday morning that includes line-of-busness news and executive messages,headlines, operational updates and Cast exclusive offerings for each property and resort. to help leaders easily share the information found in Leadership Weekly, messages are orginized into two quick print options;
1..."Tell Your Team"- to be verbally communicated, and
2..."Print To Post"-to be posted on area bulletin boards.
DR LEE
Leaders now receive one comprehensive e-mail publication every Friday morning that includes line-of-busness news and executive messages,headlines, operational updates and Cast exclusive offerings for each property and resort. to help leaders easily share the information found in Leadership Weekly, messages are orginized into two quick print options;
1..."Tell Your Team"- to be verbally communicated, and
2..."Print To Post"-to be posted on area bulletin boards.
DR LEE
Futsal Soccer Tournament:
On June 26 2010,the Disneyland Resort will host its first Futsal Soccer Tournament at the American Sports Centers in Anaheim. Futsal is an internationally recognized way of playing indoor soccer and is played in more than 100 countries.
Futsal Soccer is a fast-paced indoor soccer without walls. Cast Members are encouraged to form teams of 5 to 10 players (limit of 20 teams) and register between May 10-28, or while space is available. Teams are guaranteed to play a minimum of three to four games on the day of the tournament, which will last from 8a.m. to 5p.m.
DR LEE
Futsal Soccer is a fast-paced indoor soccer without walls. Cast Members are encouraged to form teams of 5 to 10 players (limit of 20 teams) and register between May 10-28, or while space is available. Teams are guaranteed to play a minimum of three to four games on the day of the tournament, which will last from 8a.m. to 5p.m.
DR LEE
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