Disney By The Numbershttp://www.disneybythenumbers.com/index.htmlHot News! Hot Updates! from Disney By The Numbersendbtn@me.comCopyright 2009 ANTHONY M CASELNOVA2009-04-13T19:24:20-04:00 hourly 1 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00 Tue, 14 Apr 2009 13:40:07 -0400Walt Disney World Resort Carries on Walt Disney's Tradition of Storytelling Through Technology and Innovation dbtn@me.comWDW2009-04-13T19:24:20-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-86http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-86
Known by his intimates and contemporaries as a restless thinker and tinkerer, Walt never lost the passion to innovate and take risks during the course of a lengthy and rewarding career -- even in the face of an occasionally crushing failure.

"I can never stand still," he once observed. "I must explore and experiment. I am never satisfied with my work. I resent the limitations of my own imagination."

During Walt Disney's lifetime, his rich imagination helped produce such pioneering achievements as synchronized sound in animation, the multiplane camera to add depth to the two-dimensional medium of cartoons, the first daily operating monorail in the United States, and the groundbreaking creation of Audio-Animatronics, the use of sophisticated mechanical engineering to animate figures in three dimensions with a breathtaking degree of realism.

Today, the expansive Florida resort that bears his name proudly carries on Walt Disney's tradition of combining sophisticated technology with the storytelling prowess and guest service standards that have become a Disney hallmark worldwide.

Achievements at Walt Disney World Resort have included:
  • FASTPASS, the computer system that eliminates the need to wait in long lines at popular attractions.
  • Wireless personal translator units that supply synchronized creative narration in multiple languages at shows and attractions for guests with limited English fluency.
  • Wireless handheld captioning units that deliver synchronized scripted text on backlit screens at popular attractions for guests with hearing disabilities.
  • "Turtle Talk With Crush," an attraction in The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion at Epcot that uses digital projection and sophisticated, voice-activated animation so that guests can carry on live, unscripted conversations with the laid-back sea turtle from Disney•Pixar's "Finding Nemo."
  • Mission: SPACE at Epcot, which combines centrifuge technology with a sophisticated virtual imaging system to deliver a pulse-racing trip to Mars aboard a sleek spacecraft inspired by real science.

Walt once said, "What is needed in addition to the creative ability is courage -- courage to try new things to satisfy the endless curiosity of people for information about the world around them."

And sometimes beyond.

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]]>Enjoy a picnic at Disney's Animal Kingdomdbtn@me.comAnimal Kingdom2009-04-08T22:22:48-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-85http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-85
Take your dining adventures to the outdoors and enjoy a picnic lunch with the Picnic in the Park dining experience. Your picnic lunch will include everything you need for an enjoyable family picnic, served in one of the "Every Tree Has Character" reusable bag.

Picnic in the Park gives you a choice of entrees, side dishes, desserts and water and is available in two-tiers. Tier 1 features choice of a chicken wrap, hand grinder, tuna pita or turkey focaccia sandwiches. Tier 2 gives you a choice between a rotisserie chicken and ham.

Side dishes you can select from include chips, coleslaw, corn medley, green beans, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes and gravy, orzo pasta, oven-roasted potato wedges, seasonal fruit salad and tomato and cucumber salad. Then top off your picnic lunch with a choice of an apple, orange, brownie, cookie, cornbread or crisped rice treat for your dessert.

If you would like to place an order for this new dining adventure, which became available today, stop by the Picnic in the Park podium near the Guest Relations building at the front of Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park or at the podium at the Tusker House Restaurant in Africa. You can place your order from 8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. daily. Pick-up time is a minimum of two hours after you have placed your order. Bring your picnic order receipt to Kusafiri Coffee Shop and Bakery where you can pick up and pay for your order.

The Picnic in the Park dining experience can be used with the Disney Dining Plan and will be counted as one Quick Service Meal entitlement per person.

Other dining options while visiting Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park include Donald’s Safari Breakfast (character breakfast), Tamu Tamu Refreshments – Harambe, Flame Tree Barbeque, Pizzafari, Restaurantosaurus, Yak & Yeti Restaurant, Tusker House Restaurant, Rainforest Café Animal Kingdom and the Yak and Yeti Local Foods Cafe

For more info: visit www.disneyworld.com or call 407-WDW-DINE.

If you have any fact or number information you would like to share please feel free to contact DBTN@me.com.
]]>New Waterfront Eatery Opens at Downtown Disney Early May 2009dbtn@me.comDowntown Disney2009-04-08T22:16:31-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-84http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-84
The lakeside eatery will offer a delectable variety of menu offerings representing the 37 countries of the Americas, plus an international wine bar, 37 varieties of tequila and 10 signature frozen margaritas.

The new concept was developed by Orlando-based E-Brands Restaurant Group, a multi-concept restaurant group which currently owns and operates Timpano Chophouse, Samba Room, Taqueria Canonita, Aquaknox, David Burke, Salsa Orlando and Canonita Express in a number of locations across the United States.

The lively Downtown Disney restaurant will feature nightly entertainment and will be open daily from 11 a.m. until late night.

If you have any fact or number information you would like to share please feel free to contact DBTN@me.com.
]]>New Facts for Characters In Flightdbtn@me.comDowntown Disney2009-04-08T22:12:37-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-83http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-83New Facts for Characters In Flight

  • 400 feet above the waterfront is how high you will fly on Characters In Flight
  • 72 foot diameter balloon with a whimsical design featuring silhouettes of a dozen of Disney’s “flying characters” is used at Characters In Flight operated by Aerophile
  • 30 guests can ride Characters In Flight at a time on a 6 minute trip
  • 210,000 cubic feet of lighter-than-air gas is used in the ballon of Characters In Flight
  • 360-degree view of up to 10 miles can be seen from Characters In Flight
  • 105-foot-high balloon is used to lift the guests at Characters In Flight
  • $16 for ages 10 and up, and $10 for ages 3-9 is the cost of a flight at Characters In Flight
If you have any fact or number information you would like to share please feel free to contact DBTN@me.com.

]]>NEW Disney By The Numbers Factsdbtn@me.comDBTN update2009-04-07T20:02:36-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-81http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-81
  • 300 places to dine across Walt Disney World Resort. And that's not counting the portable food carts. In all, more than 6,000 different food items are available.
  • 550 sommeliers have been awarded the Court of Master Sommelier Introductory Certificate at Walt Disney World Resort
  • 300 sommeliers currently work in the Walt Disney World Resort restaurants
  • 10,000 dessert soufflés a year come out of the oven at Victoria & Albert's at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
  • 70 pounds of vine-ripened tomatoes are served at the California Grill every night during "tomato season," July through November.
  • 30 tons of fruits and vegetables grown at The Land pavilion at Epcot are served in Walt Disney World restaurants.
  • 720 pounds of pasta are served every day at Mama Melrose's Ristorante Italiano at Disney Hollywood Studio
    • 40 varieties of cheese are used by Disney theme park and resort chefs
    • 322,000 pounds of popcorn are popped every year at Walt Disney World Resort, that's 5 million bags of buttery kernels.
    • 400,000 pounds of unused, prepared food is donated annually through the Disney Harvest program to feed the homeless of Central Florida.
    • 26.2 miles of bratwurst are served every 60 days at the Biergarten restaurant in the Germany pavilion at Epcot. That, by the way, is the length of a marathon.
    If you have any fact or number information you would like to share please feel free to contact DBTN@me.com.

    ]]>    Disney's Smallest Audio-Animatronics Figure Brings 'Chef Remy' to Life at Les Chefs de France in Epcotdbtn@me.comEPCOT2009-04-07T19:36:41-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-80http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-80The newest chef at Walt Disney World Resort may be small in stature, but he's a big hit with guests enjoying haute cuisine at Les Chefs de France in Epcot. With his flair for French fare, diners of all ages are eating up his whimsical tableside visits.

    His name is Remy, and he's the rat-turned-chef made famous in the Academy Award-winning Disney-Pixar film "Ratatouille." A new Audio-Animatronicscharacter created by Walt Disney Imagineering, Remy stars in a new guest experience at Les Chefs de France entitled "Bon Appetit from Chef Remy." Les Chefs de France is one of the restaurants featured at the France pavilion in Epcot.

    Six days a week, four times a day (subject to change), a Maitre d' greets diners with a rolling gourmet food cart. Dramatically lifting the lid from a silver-domed cheese platter, the Maitre d' reveals the guest of honor – a six-inch-tall rat with silky-soft fur, pink paws and traditional toque. Chef Remy then comes to life, entertaining diners with sprightly movements and lively banter. Winding their way through the restaurant, Remy and his Maitre d' pal make stops at each table. In addition to his hijinks, Chef Remy might even bust a move to the beat of different tunes, from the soft sway of a French love song to the hot sounds of hip-hop.

    The 40-minute experience provides guests an up-close encounter with the "Ratatouille" star as he laughs, sniffles and even flirts with his new friends.

    Remy is part of the Living Character initiative created for Disney Parks by Walt Disney Imagineering.

    "By combining technologies, our Living Character initiative creates new levels of guest interaction and brings characters to life like never before," said Holger Irmler, who worked on the Remy project for Walt Disney Imagineering. “Things we do are so complex, yet our goal is to make them seem so magical to our guests."

    Since its inception, the initiative has been providing guests with a dash of never-before-seen technology and a heaping helping of legendary Disney magic. The first Living Character debuted in 2004 in the form of a large and lovable dinosaur named Lucky.

    Not only is Remy one of the newest Audio-Animatronicscharacters created by Walt Disney Imagineering, he also holds the distinction of being the smallest one ever created. Having already wowed guests at Disneyland Resort Paris, Imagineers chose Epcot as the next park for Remy to visit – with Les Chefs de France serving as the perfect Parisian setting for his Walt Disney World debut.

    Guests dining at Les Chefs de France are encouraged to make advance reservations by calling 407/WDW-DINE (407/939-3463) up to 90 days prior to their visit. "Bon Appetit from Chef Remy" is scheduled to take place at Les Chefs de France Monday through Saturday until Sept. 5, 2009 (subject to change).

    If you have any fact or number information you would like to share please feel free to contact DBTN@me.com.
    ]]>    Disney re-releasing Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs on DVD and Blu-raydbtn@me.comMovies2009-04-06T21:19:29-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-78http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-78Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment have announced that they will release the US Blu-ray Disc release of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs on 6th October 2009.

    The DVD release will follow just in time for Christmas on 24th November 2009.

    Unavailable on home video since 2001 the new release of Disney’s 1937 animated classic boasts state of the art picture restoration and (on Blu-ray) 7.1 HD audio. There will also be new bonus features though – like all of the extras – these are currently TBA

    The Blu-ray + DVD Combo Pack (2xBD, 1xDVD) is priced at $39.99 SRP and the 2-Disc DVD is priced at $29.99 SRP. The Blu-ray Disc will be presented in 1080P 1.33:1 with English 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio and English SDH subtitles. The DVD will be presented in 1.33:1 with English, French and Spanish 5.1 Disney Enhanced Home Theater Mix audio tracks and English SDH, French and Spanish subtitles. All other details are TBA.

    If you have any fact or number information you would like to share please feel free to contact DBTN@me.com.
    ]]>    D23 JOINS FORCES WITH ONE MAN'S DREAMdbtn@me.comD232009-04-06T21:06:21-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-77http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-77
    "D23 is the ultimate Disney fan community and One Man's Dream is the ultimate attraction tribute to Walt Disney in our parks so they fit together perfectly," explains Eric Jacobson, senior vice president, Walt Disney Imagineering, whose team thought of partnering with D23 on the endeavor. "One Man's Dream showcases the history of Walt Disney and The Walt Disney Company and gives our Guests a look at what is new around the world and a sneak peak at what's coming. D23 has a similar mission for its members."

    The partnership includes new D23 theming and a new display case featuring the room of a Disney fan (we won't say whose!), adding to the robust collection of Disney history currently on display. "One Man's Dream is a collection of artifacts, models, memorabilia and special effects," adds Eric. "It appeals to the Disney fans because it can't be seen anywhere else."

    Many of those pieces came from the Walt Disney Archives, which is a big part of the D23 community. "So it's only natural and fitting that the One Man's Dream exhibit should be presented by D23," notes Becky Cline, manager of the Walt Disney Archives and a D23 team member.

    Snapshot 2009-04-06 21-08-56

    Artifacts from the Archives, which have long been a part of the attraction, include Jimmie Dodd's Mouseguitar from the 1955 Mickey Mouse Club, original props from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and Walt Disney's working office.

    The new D23 display case features items the Archives team pulled together — all pieces a real Disney fan might own. "There's some fun stuff," Becky says, including the Ultimate WALL·E, a "Treasures of the Archives" lithograph and the five-Mickey pin set which was the very first Walt Disney Archives Collection item. "Plus, a lot of the books are favorites for us in the Archives like     Disney Animation: The Illusion of Life by Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston, The Disney Poster Book and of course from the Disney Archives, Disney A to Z by our very own Dave Smith!" Becky adds.

    ]]>    SPECIAL LIMITED ENGAGEMENT DOUBLE FEATURE PRESENTATION OF DISNEY-PIXAR'S TOY STORY AND TOY STORY 2 EXCLUSIVELY IN DISNEY DIGITAL 3D ON OCTOBER 2, 2009dbtn@me.comMoviesToy Story2009-04-06T20:58:37-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-76http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-76
    This extraordinary double feature, taking the latest advances in digital 3D technology "to infinity and beyond," will play exclusively in 3D. Toy Story, the industry's first ever computer-animated feature and the first feature released by Pixar Animation Studios in 1995, and Toy Story 2, the critically acclaimed sequel that debuted in 1999, were both directed by Academy Award®-winning filmmaker John Lasseter. Both films have been meticulously re-rendered in 3D from the original digital files using the latest state-of-the-art technology.


    Snapshot 2009-04-06 21-00-47


    Commenting on the announcement, Zoradi said, "This fantastic double feature will let moviegoers see two of their all-time favorite films from Pixar Animation Studios in a way that they've never seen them before, and all for the price of one movie ticket. John Lasseter and the animation team have truly created a spectacular 3D experience with Buzz, Woody and all the toy characters in a whole new eye-popping dimension. We're also excited that audiences will soon see a whole new chapter when Toy Story 3 in 3D, directed by Lee Unkrich (co-director of Toy Story 2), comes to theaters on June 18, 2010."

    Lasseter added, "The Toy Story films and characters will always hold a very special place in our hearts, and we're so excited to be bringing these first two films back for audiences to enjoy in a whole new way thanks to the latest in 3D technology. Disney Digital 3D offers lots of great new possibilities for the art of animation and we will continue to use this new technology to push the boundaries in telling our stories. With Toy Story 3 shaping up to be another great adventure for Buzz, Woody and the gang from Andy's room, we thought this would be the perfect way to let audiences experience the first two films all over again. To see the movies back to back will be an amazing treat as well. This is certainly nostalgic for me and reminiscent of my youth when double features were the norm."

    Originally released by Walt Disney Pictures in 1995, Toy Story went on to receive Oscar® nominations for Original Screenplay, Original Score and Original Song and earned Lasseter a Special Achievement Award "for his inspired leadership of the Pixar Toy Story team.

    If you have any fact or number information you would like to share please feel free to contact DBTN@me.com.

    ]]>    DISNEY ANNOUNCES $15 TICKETS TO CELEBRATE 15 YEARS ON BROADWAYdbtn@me.comBroadway2009-04-06T20:53:58-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-75http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-75
    "When I look back on our 15 year history, one achievement that continues to be a great source of pride is our ability to bring first-time theatre goers to Broadway," said Thomas Schumacher, producer and president of Disney Theatrical Productions. "We've helped instill a love of theatre in adults and children alike, and being able to broaden that reach with an opportunity like this is profoundly gratifying."

    Disney's "$15 FOR 15" ticket offer is valid for select performances between April 21 and May 31, 2009. With this special limited offer, buyers can purchase a ticket for $15 to any of its three shows with the purchase of a regular priced ticket to the same show in select seating locations. Tickets can be bought online at Ticketmaster, by phone, at the box offices, or through a special website created for this offer, www.DisneyOnBroadway.com/15. Some restrictions apply. For more information on the "$15 FOR 15" offer or on Disney's three Broadway shows, please visit

    Snapshot 2009-04-06 20-56-49

    If you have any fact or number information you would like to share please feel free to contact DBTN@me.com.

    ]]>    Disney iPhone Applications and Gamesdbtn@me.comiPhone2009-04-05T19:22:50-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-74http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-74
    I will use a 5 star scale for this review 5 stars being the best and 1 being the worst.

    Mini guides (4 stars)

    These are great little pocket maps. No more need to carry a paper map with these little electronic version of each park map plus they have a map for all of the Downtown area as well. If you are interested they also have a seaworld map. Each map has all the attractions, restrooms, and dinning locations on them and you can hide them all or show what you need to find. They have description for each of the attractions too. You can also use the built in GPS to show where you are in the park. I used these a little the last time I was in the parks, and they are handy to have., when you are looking for a short cut though the parks. The maps have a search feature. Visit UPinPoint.com

    The following maps are available (Each map is $.99):

    Disneyland
    California Adventure
    Magic Kingdom
    Epcot
    Hollywood Studio
    Downtown Disney

    Snapshot 2009-04-05 20-10-10

    Disney's All Star cards (3 Stars)

    This is a great little set of kids cards games. These are fun for kids and adults alike that are looking to pass the time with some card games. The Fab five are all here. Each house has a themed game to play. You can only get this from iTunes, the Disney.mobile website did not have t for download.

    The following games are available ($4.99):

    Mickey's Crazy 8's
    Minnie's Hearts
    Goofy's Card Toss
    Donald's Go Fish
    Daisy's Memory Master
    Pluto's Solitaire
    Town Hall Settings


    Snapshot 2009-04-05 20-08-13



    WDW Dinning Disney (3 Stars)

    I just found this app recently. If you are a last minute dinner and really don't make ADR's then this may be for you. if you like to plan your Disney Dinning this may be for you as well. You see a restaurant down the way but are not sure if they would have what you are in the mood for or if it is in your price range. Maybe you are waiting in a ride line and you would like to plan what food you will order at your next meal.
    With WDW Dining, you can look up over 150 restaurants in Walt Disney World including descriptions, full menus, and location information. This application also has the menus, that is a large task to keep updating.As new restaurants are added to Disney World and menus change, we will have regular app updates. Visit Versa Edge thare are more screen shots there too.

    Locations include ($.99):

    Magic Kingdom
    Epcot
    Hollywood Studios
    Animal Kingdom
    Downtown Disney
    Disney Resorts

    Snapshot 2009-04-05 20-17-35


    Walt Disney World Secret Notecast (2 Stars)

    I have to say I don't use this much and I have not seen an update for this application in a very long time. I would call this a book more then a apllication. Walt Disney World Resort is filled with secrets and surprises, and the new "Walt Disney World Secrets" Notescast reveals over 180 fun and magical secrets for you to discover and enjoy in a tour throughout Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom and Disney's Hollywood Studios.

    Developed using Disney's "Guidelines for Guidebook Media", the new "Walt Disney World Secrets" Notescast installs to the Notes feature of your iPod and is arranged as a tour through all four theme parks using your iPod Classic or nano as your personal tour guide.

    You'll scroll through each tour as you wind your way through the parks, moving from one new moment of discover to the next. It's an entire day's worth of fun for the whole family, and it's an all new way to experience Walt Disney World!

    And as a bonus, this fun Notescast now includes over 200 Walt Disney World Fun Facts covering the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney Resorts and more.

    Visit TimeStream Software ($1.99)


    Disneyland Resort® Times Guide (3 stars)

    I can this being useful for a while but if the Mini guide built in this time info this application would be useless. I guess this would be good if you were in the park and wanted ot know what time a show or parade starts.

    The schedules for Disneyland® Park, Disney's California Adventure® Park and the Downtown Disney® District are all at your fingertips.

    Tap the icon, and immediately, you'll see the park hours, entertainment schedules, parade times, attraction closures, special events for today at the Disneyland Resort® in California. Scan through upcoming days, or jump to any date to see what's coming.

    No more searching for paper or wondering if you have the most up to date information. Jump to any available date quickly. No messing around with websites that weren't designed with mobile use in mind. Never wonder when the 3 o'clock parade is.

    Look for times guides for Walt Disney World® and other attractions coming soon from Electrollama Productions. (At this time their website was having some issues)

    Snapshot 2009-04-05 20-36-26

    Disneyland Park Planner (5 Stars)

    This is the most complete application for either Disneyland or Walt Disney World. This app really has it mosr of what you will need. It also cost more then the rest a t $2.99.

    Imagine having an interactive map of Disneyland® Park that shows where you are inside the park.* A map that shows you only the attractions you wish to visit or what is nearby. A map that shows you reported wait times for popular attractions. For the first time ever, you can have this and much, much more, right at your fingertips.

    GotPlanS presents its GotPlanS Disneyland Park Planner, an easy-to-use app that will help you maximize your Disneyland® Park experience. Within minutes and simple taps of the screen, you can view and add Disneyland® Park events, FASTPASS® return times and Disneyland Park restaurant reservations to your personal calendar. The planner can even remind you about items on your calendar. You can just as easily create a check-offable list of attractions to visit and set alerts for when reported wait times for attractions you choose drop below your settings. And you can do this all before your visit!

    Visit Got PlanS.com for more features and photos

    Snapshot 2009-04-05 20-45-06


    If you have a application or game you want me to review please send me an email at DBTN@me.com If you have a Disney fact that you would like to contribute to Disney By the Numbers email that to DBTN@me.com






    ]]>    Famed French Chef Paul Bocuse meets "Remy" at Les Chefs de France at Epcot dbtn@me.comEPCOT2009-04-05T19:17:49-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-73http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-73
    Chef Paul Bocuse at Disney 228647799]]>    Disney confirms 1,900 jobs eliminateddbtn@me.comWDW2009-04-03T18:11:21-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-72http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-72The Walt Disney Co. has eliminated 1,900 jobs across its U.S. parks division - including 1,400 in Florida - the company confirmed this afternoon.

    The division-wide cuts include about 1,150 layoffs, 50 voluntary buyouts and 700 open positions that were not filled.

    The Florida cuts include 900 layoffs and buyouts and 500 open positions eliminated. The vast majority of those cuts were in Central Florida and at Walt Disney World, though the company also shed jobs at a reservations center in Tampa.

    The remaining cuts include 200 layoffs and buyouts and 100 eliminated open positions at Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif, and smaller cuts at offices in Burbank, Calif, and Glendale, Calif.

    Disney said the cuts, which are mostly complete, were aimed at executive, management, professional and administrative positions. The company employs about 62,000 people in Central Florida.

    "These decisions were not made lightly but are essential to maintaining our leadership in family tourism and reflect today's economic realities," Disney spokesman Mike Griffin said. "We continue to work through our reorganization and manage our business based on demand."

    Disney had for weeks refused to reveal numbers about its job cuts, even as they spread across its vast operations. Layoffs occurred everywhere from entertainment and transportation to finance and human resources.

    But the company said today that it began the cuts Feb. 18, the same day it announced a sweeping restructuring of its domestic parks aimed at consolidating back-office functions between Disney World and Disneyland.

    Federal law typically require employers who lay off 500 or more employees at once to give state officials 60 days advance notice. Disney did not file such a warning even in Florida.

    Disney said it was not obligated to do so because even the Disney World cuts included multiple sites and subsidiaries, none of which tripped the 500-employee threshold. For example, Disney said each of its four theme parks in Orlando is considered a separate site.

    The company declined to say how much it expects to save through the job cuts.]]>    NEW Number Facts By Disney By The Numbersdbtn@me.comDBTN update2009-04-02T21:06:09-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-71http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/page165.html#unique-entry-id-71Here are some new Disney By The Numbers facts and information

    Walt Disney Parks & Resorts Fact Sheet

    Walt Disney Domestic Convention Space

    Walt Disney Theme Park Opening Dates

    If you have any fact or number information you would like to share please feel free to contact DBTN@me.com.    ]]>    Toy Story Mania Triviadbtn@me.comToy Story2009-03-31T21:15:03-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-70http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-70
  • Each ride vehicle weighs as much as 8,580 Woody dolls.
  • It would take 5,026 toy soldiers lined up end-to-end to make up the total track length.
  • Toy Story Mania! is the first time that Walt Disney Imagineering is creating an attraction for two Disney Parks simultaneously.
  • It has been estimated that, each day, guests may break over one million virtual plates using the spring-action shooters.
  • Riders in the Sky, the award-winning group that wrote the songs that Mr. Potato Head performs as part of the attraction, is the same group that wrote "Woody's Roundup" for the "Toy Story" feature films.
  • This is the first attraction that Walt Disney Imagineering designed where the Imagineers had to wear 3-D glasses to art direct all the black-light paint elements.
  • The murals located in the load area at Disney's Hollywood Studios are the largest murals painted since Epcot was built.
  • In the queue area: The viewfinder is just shy of four feet in diameter and the Christmas lights are 13 inches long.
  • In order to create a show that responds not only to every pull of a guest's spring-action shooter but also every move their midway tram makes, there are more than 150 computers communicating over multiple networks throughout the attraction.
  • At Toy Story Mania!, every guest gets to experience life at the size of a toy. So in Andy's room, a 5 foot 6 inch person will feel about 14" tall.
  • More time was spent programming Mr. Potato Head than for any other Audio-Animatronics figure ever created by Walt Disney Imagineering.
  • Mr. Potato Head will be able to say more lines of dialogue than any Audio-Animatronics figure ever created by Walt Disney Imagineering.
  • "It's a ride that's a game. It's a game that's a ride," says Mr. Potato Head to queuing guests. "Step right up and see what's inside."
  • The Mr. Potato Head Audio-Animatronics figure is the first time that an Audio-Animatronics figure can remove a body part and re-attach it (in the case of his ear).
  • The Mr. Potato Head Audio-Animatronics figure has new, highly expressive and animated eyes that can look directly at a particular guest in the queue when speaking to him/her.
  • Mr. Potato Head marks the first Audio-Animatronics figure whose mouth appears to form words and vowel sounds.
  • Game:
  • In each of the Toy Story Mania! games, there is at least one "easter egg" -- targets that can trigger the appearance of bonus high-value targets and other changes in the scene.
  • Toy Story Mania! is the first time that Woody and Buzz Lightyear (along with some of their friends) from the Disney-Pixar "Toy Story" films appear together in a ride-through attraction.
  • Watch for loose change in the prize scene -- Hamm is carrying more than $6 in coins when his cork pops.
  • Nice to Know:
  • Because of the indoor nature of the attraction and to keep the guest experience fun for all, flash photography or video is not allowed on Toy Story Mania!
  • Everyone can play! There is no height or age restriction for guests to experience Toy Story Mania!, creating a multi-generational experience the entire family can enjoy together.
  • A beeline to fun! At Disney's Hollywood Studios, Toy Story Mania! utilizes Disney's FASTPASS, a return voucher offering little or no waiting time at select attractions. Single riders also have their own queuing option for Toy Story Mania!
    • ]]>    NEW Number Facts by Disney By The Numbersdbtn@me.comDBTN update2009-03-31T20:10:00-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-69http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-692,000 decorative wedding cakes a year for couples exchanging vows at Walt Disney World Resort.

    300 soon-to-be-grooms have popped the question --"Will you marry me" at Cinderella’s Royal Table this past year.

    80,000 high school seniors will celebrate graduation during the annual Grad Nite party at Walt Disney World Resort. Disney has hosted the event for 36 years with a variety of acts from KC and the Sunshine Band to Jessica Simpson.

    4 foot diameter is the the size of the viewfinder at Toy Story Mania

    13 inches long is the length of the Christmas bulbs in the Toy Story Mania Queue

    5 foot 6 inch person will feel about 14" tall in Andy’s room at Toy Story Mania

    Toy Story Mania Trivia







    ]]>    Sanaa Brings Flavors of India, Africa To Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodgedbtn@me.comAnimal KingdomDiningResortsDVC2009-03-31T18:27:20-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-68http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-68Fans of Jiko-The Cooking Place and Boma-Flavors of Africa have a new reason to dine at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge as Sanaa debuts May 1 in the resort’s new Kidani Village expansion.

    The new Walt Disney World restaurant’s unusual name, pronounced “Sah-NAH,” is the Swahili word for “artwork.” With interiors inspired by African art and remarkable views of the resort’s Sunset Savannah through 9-foot windows, diners experience “the art of African cooking with Indian flavors” in the 150-seat, family-oriented restaurant located on the ground floor just below the lobby.

    Sanaa’s cuisine is a melting pot of tastes from the islands of the Indian Ocean that all are part of Africa – Zanzibar, the Seychelles, Comoro Islands, Mauritius and Madagascar. “These islands were on important trade routes with influences from French, Portuguese, Dutch, British, Arab and Chinese traders,” said Chef Bob Getchell. “The diverse spices and flavors give us an endless array of options for Sanaa.”

    The most indelible mark on the cuisine of the region was made by Indian traders who introduced curries, spice blends and breads. Central to African-Indian cuisine is the use of the tandoor oven, essentially a large clay pot similar to a pizza oven. The tandoor provides very high, dry heat that creates a crisp outer layer and moist interior. Along with meats, a favorite tandoor oven treat is the Indian bread naan, which is slapped directly onto the oven’s clay walls and allowed to bake until puffy and lightly browned. The Sanaa kitchen will have two custom tandoor ovens.

    Specialties include tandoori chicken, lamb and shrimp, slow-cooked curries, and braised short ribs. “Don’t think of curry as spicy,” said Chef Getchell, “but as a centuries-old cooking method that allows flavors to fully develop in the meats, vegetables, and sauces.” The base blend of seasonings for Sanaa’s curries include cardamom, chiles, cinnamon, cloves, saffron, coriander, nutmeg, fennel seed, cumin, tamarind, turmeric and more. The turmeric is what gives many curry dishes their characteristic yellow color.

    Appetizers such as lamb kefta with tamarind-dried papaya sauce, and unusual salads like okra, radishes and tomato, roasted beets, and carrot, orange and mint start the dining experience.

    Entrées include the tandoori-roasted meats, curries, and sides such as dahl (stewed lentils), curried crushed potatoes, stir-fried green beans and slow-cooked spinach and paneer (a mild South Asian cheese). Indian style flatbreads including naan, roti, and paratha are paired with chutneys, Indian style pickles and raita (yogurt-based dip).

    For guests who prefer more American flavors, there is a grilled pork chop and club sandwich at lunch, and grilled flank steak at dinner.

    Sweets are the final adventure, including mango pudding, cardamom-butter cake, papaya with sea salt and lime and vanilla-coconut rice pudding.

    The restaurant is open from 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and from 5-9 p.m. An adjacent 24-seat lounge serves African wines, beer and spirits. For reservations, call 407/WDW-DINE.

    Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is part of Disney Vacation Club.]]>    Opening Soon, Characters in Flight, operated by Aerophiledbtn@me.comDowntown Disney2009-03-31T18:24:11-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-67http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-67UP, UP AND AWAY -- Guests will get a bird's-eye view of Walt Disney World Resort as they soar to new heights in a whimsical attraction that recently opened at Downtown Disney. Characters in Flight, operated by Aerophile, is a giant tethered balloon that ascends some 300 feet into the sky every 10 minutes (depending on weather). Riders can catch the flight daily for $16 ($10 for ages 3-9).]]>Walt Disney World Guests Can Celebrate With 'Free Dining Plan' Vacation Package Offerdbtn@me.comWDWDinning2009-03-30T19:56:35-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-66http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-66Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels will have extra reason to celebrate with a great vacation offer that features the popular Disney Dining Plan for free.

    Guests buying a five-night/six-day room and theme park ticket package for stays most nights from Aug. 16 to Oct. 3, 2009, can enjoy the Disney Dining Plan for free. The plan includes one quick-service meal, one snack and one table-service meal at up to 100 restaurants for each night of the package stay.

    With this special offer, a family of four can get a five-night stay at a select Disney Resort and a 6-day Magic Your Way base ticket (with free dining) for as little as:

    • $1,390 in a standard room at a Disney Value Resort
    • $1,764 in a standard room at a Disney Moderate Resort
    • $2,276 in a standard room at Disney's Wilderness Lodge or Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
    • $2,586 in a studio at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort or Disney’s Old Key West Resort.*

    Guests taking advantage of this offer will find even more to celebrate during their visit. Throughout 2009, Disney Parks asks guests "What Will You Celebrate?" and guests of Walt Disney World can revel in new attractions, entertainment and services that allow them to turn their personal milestones into magical Disney experiences.

    The package can be booked now through June 21, 2009 at disneyworld.com or by calling 407/W-DISNEY (407/934-7639) or their local travel agent and asking for package code RYH.

    * Prices are based on two adults, one junior (ages 10 to 17) and one child (ages 3 to 9). The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Tickets are for one theme park per day and must be used within 14 days of first use. No group rates or other discounts apply. Excludes gratuities.    ]]>    YouTube, Disney close to dealdbtn@me.comDisney compnay2009-03-30T19:54:17-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-65http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-65Google-owned YouTube and Walt Disney Co. are close to finalizing a deal to distribute videos from Disney properties on the video-sharing website, The Wall Street Journal online reported on Monday.
    The newspaper, citing "people familiar with the matter," said the agreement would involve Disney putting some clips, including sports content from ESPN, on YouTube and sharing advertising revenue.
    It said Disney would gain the right to sell advertisements against its content and then share that revenue with YouTube.
    The Disney-YouTube agreement, which the newspaper said was "still in flux, is not expected to include full-length episodes of hit television shows, which Disney distributes on ABC.com, the Journal said.
    It also said Disney was talking separately to video-sharing site Hulu about putting full episodes of ABC programs on its service. The deal would involve Disney taking up an equity stake in Hulu.
    Hulu currently has four stakeholders: NBC Universal, News Corp., Providence Equity Partners and the Hulu employees.
    Google purchased YouTube in 2006 for 1.65 billion dollars and has been searching for ways to translate its immense popularity into a money-making venture.]]>    "Disney Fairies" costumes and accessories are popular-selling merchandise items at Walt Disney Worlddbtn@me.comDisney compnay2009-03-30T19:51:27-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-64http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-64GOT WINGS?: Costumes and accessories from the new "Disney Fairies" have become popular-selling merchandise items at Walt Disney World. Costumes available feature the five Disney Fairies -- Tinker Bell, Iridessa, Rosetta, Silvermist and Fawn -- that star in the new "Tinker Bell" animated film, debuting on Disney DVD Oct. 28, 2008. The fairies will also make appearances in the Magic Kingdom in a new meet-and-greet location called "Pixie Hollow," which opens Oct. 24, 2008. In addition to costumes, merchandise featured includes costume accessories like wands, pixie "crowns" and illuminated wings. Tinker Bell first appeared in the 1953 Disney animated classic "Peter Pan," and has become famous for "flying" above the Disney theme parks during pyrotechnic shows]]>Public sales begin for the The Villas at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spadbtn@me.comDVC2009-03-30T19:39:58-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-63http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-63
    New members can join DVC by purchasing a minimum of 160 "points," which represent a real estate interest in a DVC property. Members receive their points as an annual allocation, and book travel using these points. The points needed to book a room depend on the DVC property, the size of the room and the time of year. Rooms at the Villas at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel (GCV) start at 15 points per weekday night for a Studio unit in the "Adventure" (lowest demand) season and range all the way up to 280 points for a weekend night in the "Premier" (highest demand) season. GCV rooms require 25-75% more points per night than comparable rooms at the Walt Disney World DVC properties; only the Magic Kingdom-view rooms at Walt Disney World's new Bay Lake Towers property are more expensive.

    The Villas at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel are scheduled to open by "late Fall," and most expect the property to be open by Thanksgiving.]]>    How to Get the Most out of a Disney Park Visitdbtn@me.comWDW2009-03-30T19:11:09-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-62http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-62
    The overarching tip is: Get to know the territory.
    Do research. Ask questions.

    Several means to this end are:

    • Read a guidebook.
    • Visit the official Walt Disney World Resort Web site (www.disneyworld.com) and obtain a free vacation planning DVD; at the site, also check out the online planning tools which offer suggestions about experiences which may be of interest to first-time guests or to those combining a celebration with a Disney vacation.
    • Consult with the Disney World Moms Panel (www.disneyworldmoms.com) comprised of Disney-savvy parents who share knowledge in an online forum.
    The information gleaned from a combination of sources may lead a guest to conclude – correctly – that many considerations are involved in getting the most out of the theme park experience. Furthermore, many of the considerations ultimately involve a guest’s interests and individual circumstances.

    For instance, while the four Walt Disney World theme parks are all created for family fun, virtually any guest familiar with Disney World has a “favorite park.” That’s because the parks’ themes vary dramatically – from lands of whimsy in Magic Kingdom to worlds of scientific and cultural accomplishment at Epcot to streets, sets and backlots of show business at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, to realms of animals living, extinct and imaginary at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

    Guests are immersed in those thematic worlds through stories “told” in attractions and experiences. But the methods of immersive storytelling are many. Sometimes a physically interactive entertainment concept is used, with guests being drawn into the action and becoming stars of the show. Sometimes ride systems carry guests on journeys that range from tame to wild – just like the stories. And sometimes the experience is physically passive, designed for the senses to “drink it in.”

    With “homework” ahead of vacation, a guest can customize an itinerary to suit interests as well as considerations such as age, height restrictions and ambulatory limitations. A valuable source of information relating to “Traveling With Little Ones” and “Guests With Disabilities” is www.disneyworld.com. (On the home page, under the heading “Plan Your Vacation,” click on “In-Depth Planning Topics” for links to specialized information.)

    Many considerations that impact satisfaction are common to all guests. They involve tickets, time and convenience. Here’s a closer look at some aspects of ticket-buying, time use (plus time saving and time “expanding”) and guest services that can add up to an exceptional, value-enhanced theme park experience.

    Shopping ‘smart’ for tickets

    The Magic Your Way ticket system lets guests decide what ticket features best fit their Disney vacation plans … and that’s what they buy. Guests decide the number of days and whether optional features – park hopping, visits to Disney attractions outside the theme parks and “non-expiration” of tickets – are important. Some price and value considerations…

    Per-day ticket costs decrease for longer stays. A seven-day ticket without optional features brings down the per-day cost to less than half the price, per day, compared to seven individual one-day Base Tickets. And the per-day cost of a 10-day ticket is less than one-third the price, per day, compared to 10 individual one-day Base Tickets.

    The Water Park Fun & More option can produce significant savings for recreation and entertainment outside the theme parks. Here’s what you need to know about the option:

    • It provides admissions to the guest’s choice of Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, DisneyQuest, Disney’s Oak Trail golf course and Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex.
    • The number of admissions it provides varies depending upon the number of days of the Base Ticket (the option added to a one- or two-day Base Ticket provides two visits to the guest’s choice from among the listed attractions; added to a seven-day Base Ticket, it provides seven visits).
    • It costs $50. Considering that one-day admission to a water park or DisneyQuest is $34-$40, substantial savings are possible.
    The Park Hopper option can enhance the value of the vacation by allowing a guest to take advantage of special fun offered at different times of day at different Disney theme parks. Other potential Park Hopper benefits:

    • If the vacation stay is longer, “hopping” is perfect for repeating favorite attractions at the various parks.
    • If the guest is staying “on property,” park-hopping can be the ticket to extra time in the parks (more about this under “Making the best use of time”).
    Kids under age 3 are provided free admission to all Walt Disney World theme parks.

    Making the best use of time

    If “a penny saved is a penny earned,” then what of time? Shouldn’t it follow that saving time is also merit-worthy? Certainly using time purposefully is important, given that a guest has invested both money and time in a vacation. What is “purposeful” varies from person to person, however. Some guests at Epcot once shared that they were so enamored with the gardens that they hadn’t done any attractions – but they weren’t complaining; rather, they were complimenting … and beaming. Here are some ways to “make time,” save time, add time and use time during a Disney park visit…

    Disney’s FASTPASS system allows guests to avoid waiting at designated popular attractions in all four Walt Disney World theme parks. Here’s how it works:
    • At the entrance to attractions offering FASTPASS, two times are posted – (1) approximate wait time using the normal queue and (2) return time for FASTPASS tickets currently being issued.
    • If the wait in the normal queue is long, guests can choose to obtain a FASTPASS ticket (at no charge) with an assigned return time (an hour-long window) and then use the time until then to enjoy other experiences in the park.
    • Upon returning to use their FASTPASS, the guest can hop on the attraction with little or no waiting.

    A "rider swap" program lets both parents enjoy a ride – one parent waits with a child who is unable to ride an attraction while one parent rides. Afterwards, the other parent can board the ride with minimal wait time.

    Tip Boards located at strategic “crossroads” in each theme park provide guests with a heads-up concerning attractions’ wait times. Guests can save time – and “steps” – by consulting the boards throughout the day.

    Extra Magic Hours provide guests of select hotels at Walt Disney World Resort an opportunity for exclusive time in a Walt Disney World theme park. The details:

    • The exclusive time is one hour prior to scheduled park opening or up to three hours after park closing.
    • The park varies from day to day.
    • In all, there are up to 16 extra theme park hours available each week.
    • The time is exclusively for guests of the 23 Walt Disney World owned-and-operated hotels, the Walt Disney World Dolphin, Walt Disney World Swan, Shades of Green and the Hilton at Downtown Disney.
    • Disney water parks sometimes open one hour early for guests of select Disney resort hotels.
    • To take advantage of the additional time in the parks, guests must have a Magic Your Way ticket valid for the park(s) offering Extra Magic Hours – and, of course, their hotel ID.
    • The Park Hopper option on Magic Your Way tickets allows guests to take advantage of Extra Magic Hours in a park or parks different from where the guest spends the rest of the day.

    Guests arriving at park opening frequently head to a favorite attraction and enjoy it before it gets busy.

    Guests who decide to forego viewing a popular parade frequently discover it’s a time to experience a popular attraction with less wait.

    Festivals and special events are times when the theme parks feature extra entertainment and excitement –included with regular admission. Several long-running events are the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival (spring), Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (fall), ESPN The Weekend (spring at Disney’s Hollywood Studios), Star Wars Weekends (spring at Disney’s Hollywood Studios), and elaborate decorations and seasonal entertainment at all four parks for the holidays.

    The “best time” to visit depends. The busier times to visit Walt Disney World parks are when school’s out for major holidays, the summer and three-day weekends. The very busiest times typically are Christmas to New Year’s and around Easter. Some considerations:

    • Avoiding the busy times likely means shorter waits for attractions and shows and better access to dining reservations.
    • Busy times can mean extended operating hours and sometimes special incremental entertainment.
    • Disney planners attempt to schedule periodic attraction closures for refurbishment at times other than vacation peaks.

    Quick Service meals can cut down dining time – and sometimes cost. Addin flexibility because you can catch a gulp on the go without a reservation, and quick service can make consummate “good sense.”

    Table Service restaurant experiences can enhance the theme park experience. There are restaurants that are worth the extra planning effort of a reservation, the extra time at the table, and possible extra expense. These eateries, replete with elaborate theming, extend the entertainment experience of the park to mealtime. Dining and relaxing in an ambiance reflecting a different time or place is an entertainment experience worth the time sitting. Sometimes these restaurants serve up entertainment acts along with meals. And sometimes the meal may be part of a package that provides preferred seating at no extra cost for a signature entertainment performance (such as “Finding Nemo–The Musical” at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Candlelight Processional at Epcot, or “Fantasmic!” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios).

    A longer stay can yield a vacation at a more comfortable pace. Guest surveys show higher satisfaction ratings for longer stays – with “pace” typically cited as the reason. After a week-long visit, guests have reported that they “didn’t feel rushed” and they “discovered a pool at the hotel.”

    For a short-duration visit, make a short list of “must-sees” and “must-dos” based on the vacationing group’s interests. One of the worst mistakes a guest can make is over-scheduling. Be realistic in planning. Don’t attempt to see and do everything. Vacation shouldn’t feel like a track meet! And remember to take into account any relevant factors such as height restrictions or ambulatory concerns.

    Taking advantage of Guest services

    Young guests. Old guests. Guests with mobility challenges. Guests with vision or hearing disabilities. Guests whose “native tongue” isn’t English. Guests with special diets. The “Guest-centric” culture of Disney strives to create a welcoming environment for everyone. …

    Special guide maps pointing out kid-stuff – where you can find the characters plus attractions, entertainment and interactive activities ofspecial interest to young children – are available at Guest Relations in all the theme parks.

    Baby Care Centers in all four theme parks feature private rooms with rocking chairs for nursing mothers, diaper-changing rooms, and feeding rooms with highchairs, bibs and plastic spoons. There are even diapers, formula and teethers for sale.

    Stroller rentals are available. Rather than lugging a stroller (including on and off of parking lot trams), parents with young children can rent a stroller at the theme parks. Tips for renters:

    • A length-of-stay rental saves some money;
    • Even for a one-day rental, keep your receipt; if you park-hop, drop off the stroller when you leave a park and use your receipt to obtain a stroller when you enter another park. (The receipt also permits you to claim another stroller if yours “disappears.”)
    Theme park guidemaps are available in six languages – English, French, German, Japanese, Spanish and Portuguese. They are available at Guest Relations locations in each park, along with times guides for shows, character greetings, parades and fireworks.

    The Guidemap for Guests with Disabilities provides a detailed overview of services and facilities available for guests with disabilities and is available at Guest Relations locations within all four parks as well as Lobby Concierge locations at Walt Disney World resort hotels. Types of disabilities covered include mobility disability, hearing disability, visual disability and non-apparent disability.

    Wheelchairs and Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECVs) are available for rent at Disney theme parks for the convenience of guests with disabilities. A tip:

    • A length-of-stay rental ticket is available which offers not only savings but also involves a one-time payment transaction after which the guest simply shows the receipt at the stroller rental location and is expedited through the queue with little or no wait time.

    Special dietary requests can typically be accommodated. The Walt Disney World Food & Beverage team is committed to offering a wide range of choices to accommodate guests who require lifestyle dining options, as well as most specific requests from guests with food allergies or intolerances. Some considerations to note:

    • Whether dining at a table service restaurant or at a quick service restaurant, desired dining requests will be addressed.
    • In many cases, advance notice is required – usually at the time of your reservation.
    • Please call Disney’s Dining Reservation Center at 407/WDW-DINE to discuss arrangements.

    Professional photographers take keepsake shots of family vacations – with everyone in the picture. Here are some of the details:

    • Disney’s PhotoPass service photographers are stationed at prime photo spots throughout the theme parks.
    • The guest’s Disney’s PhotoPass ID card (issued free) is used by the photo team to keep track of images.
    • The images can be viewed online; guests can order prints, customized photo albums, T-shirts, mugs and more.
    • Additional information is available online by visiting www.disneyphotopass.com.

    Merchandise purchases don’t have to be a burden. There are alternatives to carrying the packages throughout the parks:

    • Package pickup is available at no charge. Merchandise is moved to package pickup, conveniently located near the front entrance of each park, for guests’ pickup when they are leaving the park.
    • Hotel delivery is available at no charge to guests of Walt Disney World resorts. Purchases made prior to 7 p.m. will be delivered to the guest’s hotel by noon the following day. Purchases made after 7 p.m. will be at the hotel on the second day after purchase.
    • Shipping is available for an additional charge at the time of purchase.

    Lockers are available for rental. They are first come, first served – and quite popular. They are located near the entrance of each park. There are a variety of sizes. If you are park-hopping, you don’t have to pay the locker fee a second time on a day (just a key deposit) provided you keep your receipt.

    The theme park itineraries that Disney guests create are as varied as the guests themselves – from their interests to their individual circumstances. But with planning, all of their experiences can be equally magical.

    ]]>    MICKEY’S MAGICAL PARTY AT DISNEYLAND RESORT PARIS GIVES CLIENTS ALL NEW REASONS TO RETURNdbtn@me.comparis2009-03-30T19:04:44-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-61http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-61Disneyland Resort Paris has launched Mickey’s Magical Party – a year-long party featuring new entertainment and a new attraction -- along with a "kids-under-7-free" offer that together will provide compelling reasons for client visits in 2009 to Europe’s most popular tourist attraction.

    Mickey’s Magical Party runs now through March 7, 2010, and includes It’s Party Time… with Mickey & Friends at the newly renovated Central Plaza Stage in Main Street, U.S.A. (Disneyland Park). Clients can join in as Mickey, Donald, Pluto, Goofy and friends demonstrate their favourite song and dance moves.

    Super cool DJ Stitch leads It’s Dance Time… in Discoveryland (Disneyland Park). On a new mobile stage next to Space Mountain: Mission 2, Stitch mixes modern music with an accompanying dance show that clients are encouraged to join.

    Minnie’s Party Train is a street party with meet ‘n’ greet stops all along Main Street, U.S.A. (Disneyland Park), where party girl Minnie introduces clients to all her Disney character friends.

    Every day at Walt Disney Studios Park, stars from Aladdin to Disney Villains roll up in over-the-top Disney-customised vehicles in Disney’s Stars ‘n’ Cars motorcade. It all ends in a giant meet ‘n’ greet for clients and their favourite Characters on Place des Stars (Production Courtyard).

    Mickey’s Magical Party also will launch a new attraction families with younger children are sure to recognise -- Playhouse Disney Live on Stage! (Walt Disney Studios Park). Kids share the stage with Handy Manny, Little Einsteins, the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Crew and other live characters from the Disney Channel hit TV show "Playhouse Disney."

    In addition, when clients book a package between April 3 and Nov. 8, 2009, their kids under 7 stay free! For each adult package booked, three children stay free at any Disney and Selected & Associated hotels and are admitted free at both Disney Parks.

    "As travel agents reach out to their clients, especially those with younger children, they’ll find our new entertainment and attraction to be powerfully persuasive," says Norbert Stiekema, senior vice president sales and distribution for Disneyland Resort Paris. "We feel the new line up offered by Mickey’s Magical Party coupled with our Kids-Under-7 offer is going to be a great sales opportunity for travel agents across Europe."

    To help travel agents learn about the new entertainment, attraction and special offer associated with Mickey’s Magical Party, Disneyland Resort Paris has redesigned www.disneystars.com – its travel agent Web site. The site also offers agents the opportunity to learn more about Mickey’s Magical Party sales-adapted tools including downloadable sales messages and templates for promotional materials related to special offers. The new site also carries more informational videos and features a downloadable Disney Stars certificate.

    "As travel agents prioritize their sales strategies this year, they should keep in mind that Disneyland Resort’s appeal has remained strong among European travelers, even amid challenging economic conditions," says Stiekema. "As an industry leader with an enduring brand and the party of the year, we invite travel agents to partner with us as they build their businesses in 2009."

    Disneyland Resort Paris is the No. 1 tourist attraction in Europe – hosting more people annually than the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre combined. The resort recently announced an 8 percent increase in attendance for the first quarter of fiscal year 2009 compared to the same period last year.]]>    Disney Cruise Line to Homeport Disney Wonder at the Port of Los Angelesdbtn@me.comDisneycruise2009-03-30T18:57:58-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-60http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-60Disney Cruise Line announced today that it plans to reposition the Disney Wonder from its Florida base in Port Canaveral to the West Coast in 2011. The company is working with the Port of Los Angeles to finalize a two-year agreement with a three-year extension option. The contract will be considered by the Port of Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners on April 2, 2009.

    If approved, the new Disney Wonder sailings could generate more than 250,000 guests passing through the Port of Los Angeles over a five-year period.

    Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said he is pleased to welcome the renowned family cruise line back to the Port of Los Angeles at San Pedro.

    "Having Disney Cruise Line operating out of the Port of Los Angeles will provide a great boost to the local economy by generating business and tourism revenue in San Pedro and throughout the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area," Mayor Villaraigosa said. "The return of Disney Cruise Line to our port speaks volumes about our ability to attract world-class cruise lines to the area."

    The addition of a new homeport for Disney Cruise Line is part of the overall expansion plan for The Walt Disney Company. Two new ships, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, will arrive in Florida’s Port Canaveral in 2011 and 2012, respectively.

    "We are looking forward to returning to the Port of Los Angeles and offering our special brand of family cruises on the West Coast," said Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Jay Rasulo. "Having a Disney Cruise Line ship based in this region is something families on the West Coast have wanted for a long time, and we’re pleased to bring the Disney Wonder to Southern California in 2011."

    Disney Cruise Line has successfully tested the West Coast market with two summer seasons of Mexican Riviera itineraries from the Port of Los Angeles. The Disney Magic cruise ship first called on the West Coast during the summer of 2005 as part of Disneyland’s 50th anniversary and returned again during the summer of 2008. Disney Cruise Line has not yet announced the details of its itineraries for 2011.

    "The return of Disney Cruise Line to the Port of Los Angeles is just one more reason visitors will come to Los Angeles to help our city thrive," added Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Geraldine Knatz, Ph.d. "The LA area is already home to Disneyland – it’s a natural fit."

    The Port of Los Angeles continues to be one of the busiest cruise ports on the West Coast. Known for its proximity to area attractions, including Disneyland Resort, and ease of convenience for transportation and nearby airports, the Port of Los Angeles provides cruisers with a great experience.

    Disney Cruise Line delivers a cruise experience that every member of the family feels was created for their own individual vacation wants and needs. Specifically designed areas and activities for each member of the family allows for both quality time together and wonderful individual experiences. The focus is to allow families to reconnect, adults to recharge their batteries and kids to immerse themselves in worlds of fantasy only Disney can create.

    Known for establishingfamily travel in the cruise market Disney Cruise Line continues to be a leader in the industry. The Disney Wonder was recently named the top large cruise ship experience by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine in the 9th annual "Reader’s Cruise Poll." The Disney Magic, which was also ranked in the top five cruise experiences in the poll, will embark on a season of limited itineraries exploring Northern Europe and the Mediterranean in 2010. Additionally, the line continues to move forward on the construction of its two new ocean liners at the Meyer Werft yard in Germany.]]>    Get 2 More Nights Free to Savor All the Exciting New Summer Entertainment At Disneyland Resortdbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-25T20:31:21-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-59http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-59ANAHEIM, Calif. - With free admission to a theme park on your birthday throughout 2009, new adventures and entertainment at both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks, and a special travel offer that will add two free nights to your three-night stay, a visit to the Disneyland Resort this summer offers value-minded vacationers plenty to celebrate.

    By purchasing a three-night Disneyland Resort vacation package this summer, guests can magically extend their visit with an offer worth celebrating: Get two more nights free! This special Disneyland summer vacation offer provides a magical and affordable way for families to take in all the new fun and adventures at the Happiest Place on Earth this vacation season.

    “We know travelers are looking for great value in their vacations,” said Ed Grier, president, Disneyland Resort. “With the new ‘2 Nights Free’ offer and all of the new entertainment and attractions at our parks, we are providing our Guests with even more reasons to come celebrate with us this summer”.

    With the new summer vacation packages, guests pay for three nights of hotel accommodations and three days of theme park admission, and then receive two more nights at the hotel and two more days of theme park admission. Together, the special deal provides guests five days and nights of Disneyland fun, for the price of three.

    Bookings for this limited-time offer must be made between March 24 and August 11, 2009. The summer vacation package offer for two more nights free is valid at all three Disneyland Resort Hotels – Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, the Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa for arrivals between April 1 and September 26, 2009. Beginning May 1, the offer is also available at participating local Disneyland Resort Good Neighbor Hotels, providing guests with a wide range of hotel accommodations and prices to fit every budget. Guests at a Disneyland Resort Good Neighbor Hotel must also begin their travel by September 26.

    New Entertainment and Experiences

    In 2009, the Disneyland Resort is pulling out all the stops by asking guests, “What Will You Celebrate?” As part of the yearlong celebration, guests will enjoy many new magical experiences. “Celebrate! A Street Party” launches this spring at Disneyland Park. A cast of dancers, DJs and Disney characters invite guests to join the celebration as they take to the street for a high-energy street party featuring lively music, colorful costumes, confetti and streamers. Guests will join in twist dancing, a conga line and all the colorful fun of a celebration on Main Street, U.S.A., or at “it’s a small world” mall.

    Meanwhile, because there’s so much in life worth celebrating, in April, Disneyland Park will also present the Celebration Roundup and Barbecue at Big Thunder Ranch, a good ol’ cowboy-style hoedown featuring food and fun for the whole family.

    This summer the Happiest Place on Earth will be the Most Exciting Place on Earth! At Disneyland Park, Fantasmic! is bigger, brighter and bolder than ever before. And the skies above Sleeping Beauty Castle will come to life with a spectacular new fireworks show that will have guests celebrating across the Magic Kingdom. Over at Disney’s California Adventure Park, Tinker Bell works her pixie magic and brings a bright new sparkle to the guest-favorite and classic Disney’s Electrical Parade.

    In 2009, guests can also visit a Disney park for free on their birthdays. For guests who wish to visit on their birthdays and also take advantage of the paid summer treat of two more nights free, the Resort offers a selection of birthday treat options available with the packages. Just present your valid Park Hopper ticket on your birthday at the Main Entrance ticket booths and receive one of the following options instead of the free theme park birthday admission:
    A birthday FASTPASS ticket for certain attractions for up to six people in the birthday party (the number of birthday FASTPASS tickets is limited and may not be available after 11am; all guests must have valid Theme Park admission). Or…
    A Birthday Fun Card in an amount equal to the price of a 1-Day/1-Park Disneyland Resort ticket (based on general admission price or the reduced admission price for Guests ages 3-9 at the Main Entrance ticket booth, respectively). The Birthday Fun Card can be used at participating locations in the theme parks for select merchandise, Disney’s PhotoPass on-site services and tours. Or…
    A 1-Day/1-Park Ticket that can be used anytime in the next 12 months, starting from the celebrant’s date of birth. This ticket may be used by the Birthday celebrant only.
    To book a Disneyland Resort vacation package, visit www.disneyland.com, call (800) 854-3104 or visit your local travel agent. For general Disneyland Resort information, park hours and entertainment schedules, call (714) 781-4565 or visit www.disneyland.com. The summer vacation offer cannot be combined with any other discounts.

    Free theme park admission details: To receive free admission to one of the Walt Disney World or Disneyland theme parks on your birthday in 2009, guests must bring valid ID including proof of birth date. Guests who have purchased a valid multi-day ticket they will use on their birthday may choose from other birthday treats instead. No cash refunds or credits will be given. To register your birthday and find out more details, visit www.disneyparks.com. For terms and conditions of the Birthday Fun Card and details on participating locations visit disneyparks.com/birthdayfuncard.

    “Get 2 Nights Free” offer is valid for bookings from 3/24/09 through 8/11/09 for arrivals at a Disneyland Resort hotel from 4/1/09 through 9/26/09 with travel being completed by 10/1/09, and is valid from 5/1/09 through 9/26/09 at participating Disneyland Resort Good Neighbor hotels with travel completed by 10/1/09. Upon the purchase of a 3-night package, with 3-Day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Bonus Tickets, at a participating hotel for a family of four (2 adults, 1 junior (ages 10 to 17) and 1 child (age 3-9), two (2) consecutive free nights will be added to the hotel stay and two (2) days added to the tickets. Limited to two (2) free nights per package / reservation and not valid for previously booked rooms. Check for offers associated with longer night stays. The Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Bonus Tickets expire 13 days after first use or 10/13/09, whichever occurs first, and each day of use of a ticket constitutes one full day of use. Tickets may not be sold or transferred for commercial purposes. Offer subject to availability and blockout dates; advance reservations required. Not valid with any other discount or promotion. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.


    If you have any news or facts please feel free to send them to     DBTN@me.com]]>    From Apparel to Home Decor, Disney Revamps Licensing Bizdbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-24T20:06:57-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-58http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-58Character licensing is nothing new to the Disney brand, dating back to Walt Disney licensing the Mickey Mouse image for use on a children’s writing tablet in 1929. Eighty years later, Disney says it has shifted from a strictly licensing business model to a consumer products firm capable of multifaceted strategies for innovation, quality and integrated branding efforts.

    The Walt Disney Company’s broad content enables it to offer an almost limitless base of creative material from which to gather inspiration, according to Simon Waters, vp of marketing for Disney consumer products, global fashion and home.

    DCP’s current lineup ranges from home furnishings to age group targeted apparel and accessories. Along with décor, bedding and apparel tied to Disney characters comes a side of Disney that is not traditional: noncharacter products with subtle inspiration drawn from either motion pictures or Walt Disney’s lifestyle aura. The noticeable move of Disney to the high fashion arena was made around 2002. DCP’s expansive umbrella now includes Disney Toys; Disney Apparel, Accessories & Footwear; Disney Food, Health & Beauty; Disney Home and Disney Stationery.

    The upcoming spring, summer and fall 2009 lines include Jonas Brothers and Disney character infant, children’s and tween apparel to be sold at Wal-Mart and J.C. Penney (MSRP $8-36.99), Disney character back-to-school lunch boxes and backpacks ($9.99-29.99), noncharacter bedding by Disney Resort Collection ($350-450), a collaboration for women’s apparel with designer Charlotte Tarantola ($106-140), Harvey’s seat belt bags ($64-238) at Nordstrom, subtle character-themed Etnies footwear for men and women ($80-110) and a Mickey necklace by Swarovski ($225).

    Collaborations with designers and manufacturers to create products are a priority for DCP, said Waters. “There isn’t any other brand on the planet that can do what we do with authenticity,” he said. Disney’s differentiated product portfolio enables the company to target a particular demographic, creating a product that is appropriate for that audience, at many price points.

    Disney has tried to directly market its own products through Disney Stores, with dismal results. The Children's Place acquired the stores, but recently Disney reacquired them. The company is looking to clean up the stores and offer a stronger focus on the in-store experience for children ages 2-12. The merchandising in the brick-and-mortar locations will seek to create a destination appeal for youngsters and their families, to make the shopping experience memorable whether a purchase is made or not.
    ]]>    Disney Interactive Studios Announces Toy Story Mania! Exclusively for Wiidbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-24T19:55:13-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-57http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-57Disney Interactive Studios today announced Toy Story Mania!, inspired by the Disney/Pixar animated feature “Toy Story,” will be released exclusively for the Wii™ home video game console this fall. Toy Story Mania! showcases an array of entertaining games based on the new Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort attractions, while featuring the iconic characters and humor from the popular Disney/Pixar “Toy Story” franchise.
    “The ‘Toy Story’ franchise is a fun, dynamic and heart-warming series containing characters and themes that connect with every age group,” said Craig Relyea, senior vice president of global marketing, Disney Interactive Studios. “Toy Story Mania! combines those popular elements with the unique antics of the new theme park attraction for the ultimate in family entertainment.”

    In Toy Story Mania!, players experience the fast-paced, zany fun of the Toy Story Mania! theme park attraction, which is an interactive experience requiring 3D glasses and involving rapid or quick-firing shooting galleries. In addition to galleries adapted from the attraction, the game includes new and original galleries and a series of mini games, all hosted by beloved characters from the movies. The thematically-connected levels are designed for up to four players of all ages with competitive and co-operative multiplayer options. Toy Story Mania! also includes bonus 3D features, transforming the game experience with eye-popping visuals.

    The Pixar-created “Toy Story” and ”Toy Story 2” have both had successful box office and DVD sales. The Disney Digital 3D™ theatrical re-release of “Toy Story” is in the works and will open in theatres on October 2, 2009, followed by the 3D re-release of “Toy Story 2” opening on February 12, 2010, leading up to the premiere of “Toy Story 3” in 3D summer 2010. Toy Story Mania! is the first video game to place characters from these films into a carnival game setting and is expected to resonate with fans of the films and the attraction, as well as gamers who like pick-up-and-play party games.

    Developed by Papaya Studio, Toy Story Mania! will be available this fall exclusively for Wii.]]>    Buy 4 Get 3 Freedbtn@me.comWDW2009-03-24T19:50:48-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-56http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-56Buy 4 Get 3 Free

    Offer valid for most Disney resorts at varying rates for stays most nights 4/27 - 5/18, 5/23 - 6/6, and 6/26 - 8/15/09 .

    Sample 7 Night Package during Summer Season at a Value Resort as low as $1421 including 7 Day Theme Park tickets:

    • For a family of four in a standard room
    • For stays most nights between 5/23 - 6/6, 6/26 - 8/8/09
    • That's like paying $51 a night per person for this package
    • Total package savings of $450

    When traveling between 4/19 - 6/15, 6/22 - 8/15/09 AND you stay at either Disney's Old Key West Resort or Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, you'll receive a $100 Disney Gift Card.



    Studio rooms at Disney's Old Key West Resort and Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa have amenities such as a kitchenette with microwave, mini-refrigerator, wet bar and coffee maker. Ask about One- and two-bedroom villas for even more amenities like a well equipped kitchen, washer/dryer and whirlpool tub to make you feel right at home!

    Prices based on 2 adults, 1 junior, and 1 child. The number of packages allocated for this offer is limited. Savings based on non-discounted price for a 7 night/7 day Magic Your Way Package. Tickets are for 1 Theme Park per day and must be used within 14 days of first use. See Important Details.

    Book through March 29, 2009!


    Book your stay online now! or call us at (407) 939-7928† or your Travel Agent and ask for booking code IUZ.]]>    Disneyland Hoteldbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-21T15:41:07-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-55http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-55
  • Here are some new Disneyland Hotel numbers. You can find these on the Disneyland hotel page


    • 1955 is when the Disneyland Hotel debuted
    • 1150 Magic Way, Anaheim, CA 92802 is the current address of the Disneyland Hotel
    • 10 million is the estimated cost to build the Disneyland Hotel
    • 3 buildings make up this property
    • 990 rooms are at the Disneyland Hotel
    • 2 pools are at the Disneyland Hotel
    • 5 dinning locations are at the Disneyland Hotel
    • 4 shopping location are located at the Disneyland Hotel
    • 5,000-square-foot paradise inspired by the adventures of Peter Pan is at the Disneyland Hotel
    • 500 million guests have been to Disneyland resort as of 10:16 am on January 8th, 2004.
    • 1,400 rooms are now in the Disneyland Hotel that opened on January 1988. Also have 136, 000 SQ FT of convention space.
    • 7 rooms were available on opening day due to the electrician and plumbers strike
    • 104 rooms were ready to be used after the first week of opening the Disneyland Hotel in 1955
    • $9.00 was the cost of a room on opening night at the Disneyland Hotel this was a balcony room in 1955
    • $11.00 was the cost of room on the ground floor on opening night at the Disneyland Hotel
    • $22 was the cost of a suite at the Disneyland hotel in 1955
    • 4 years was the length of time that the cost of a room stayed the same from 19955 to 1959
    • 5 Garden building were the first structures to be be built as part of the Disneyland Hotel
    • 1961 is when the monorail was added to the Disneyland hotel as a stop along its route.
    • 1962 the Disneyland hotel expanded to 450 rooms
    • 1961/62 a 18 hole miniature golf course was constructed at the Disneyland Hotel
    • 26 helicopter flights a day landed at the Disneyland hotel to service guests arriving from LAX airport
    • $14 was the cost of the helicopter from LAX airport to Disneyland
    • 20 minutes was the total length of time on the helicopter from LAX to Disneyland
    • 400 square feet was the size of a room at the Disneyland hotel when they were originally built in 1955 to 1960
    • 1955 each room at the Disneyland hotel had a TV, this was a 1st for hotel rooms, even some rooms had color TV’s too
    • 1966 the Disneyland hotel was expanded again and 400 more rooms were added to bring the total to 600 rooms and suites. This edition was called the “tower” and was later renamed the Sierra tower
    • 1969 the Disneyland hotel expanded again this time they added 2 more towers, a marina and travel facilities and it moved the lobby of the hotel as well
    • 1972 is when the convention center was built and added to the Disneyland Hotel
    • 1970 is when the 2 addition towers were officially opened to the public
    • 1441 West street was the original location of the hotel lobby of the Disneyland Hotel
    • .50 was the cost to rent a paddle boat at the Disneyland Hotel
    • 1988 is when Disney bought the Disneyland hotel from its original owner Jack Wrather

    If you have any news or facts please feel free to send them to DBTN@me.com]]>    Disney World, airport strike new deal on Magical Expressdbtn@me.comWDW2009-03-18T21:20:51-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-54http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-54Walt Disney World and Orlando International Airport completed a deal Wednesday to continue the resort's free passenger-and-luggage shuttle until at least the end of 2016. Under the terms of the deal, the airport agreed not to raise the 75-cent-a-passenger fee it charges the resort for Disney's Magical Express. The previous contract would have allowed the airport to raise the fee to as much as $1.50 a passenger under certain circumstances. Disney buses ferried just under 2.2 million travelers from OIA to either its resort hotels or cruise ships in 2008, according to airport figures. That works out to about $1.6 million a year in payments to the airport -- compared with about $3.2 million were the per-passenger fee doubled. The previous agreement had been set to expire at the end of 2011. The new pact also gives Disney the option to extend the agreement by another five years, until 2021.

    Airport leaders have been working to cut costs and raise money -- including plans to cut an undisclosed number of jobs -- as passenger traffic and revenue tumble amid the global recession. But Jeff Fuqua, chairman of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, said the agency decided it was better served by not raising Disney's fee, in return for securing a longer commitment from the company to operate Magical Express.

    Because Disney's Magical Express luggage is processed in a remote hangar at the airport, the service diverts thousands of bags every day away from OIA's main luggage-sorting systems and claim areas. That eases pressure on the airport to spend money expanding its baggage facilities, Fuqua said.

    "What they were looking for was control on costs. What we were looking for was to relieve ourselves of capital costs -- big costs," Fuqua said.

    The airport also agreed to raise the threshold under which it could have forced Disney to open a second customer check-in location in the airport's main terminal. Under the previous deal, OIA could have required Disney to rent more counter space once Magical Express reached 2.2 million arriving travelers in any 12-month period; now, it can do so only once the shuttle service reaches 2.5 million arriving passengers

    The new agreement continues a provision preventing Disney from establishing another Magical Express at any airport within a 100 mile radius of OIA -- ensuring Disney can't bring the service to Orlando Sanford International Airport.

    "We're pleased the contract extension will enable us to continue to operate Disney's Magical Express for many years to come," Disney spokeswoman Kim Prunty said. "We think Disney's Magical Express has proven to be incredibly successful – it has benefited the airport and the Central Florida community, as well as Walt Disney World and millions of visitors to our region."    ]]>    WDW Historydbtn@me.comWDW2009-03-18T20:33:35-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-53http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-53
    Walt Disney World History Page]]>    Celebrity Chef Cat Cora To Open New Walt Disney World Restaurantdbtn@me.comWDW2009-03-17T12:56:09-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-52http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-52
    The restaurant, to be owned and operated by Disney, is scheduled to open by fall 2009 in the space currently occupied by Spoodles.

    “I am pleased to welcome Cat Cora and her engaging new concept for Kouzzina to the Walt Disney World Resort,” said Jay Rasulo, chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “This collaboration between Cat and Disney represents a significant step in our ongoing commitment to offer unique culinary experiences and choices for our guests.”

    As a Mississippi native born to a family of Greek restaurateurs, Cora grew up immersed in two different and flavorful cultures , and has taken from that unique background the kitchen “know-how” handed down through generations. The cuisine at Kouzzina (Greek for “kitchen” and pronounced “koo-zee-nah”) will showcase Mediterranean cuisine and Chef Cora’s philosophy to create simple yet sensational meals.

    Cora said that the new restaurant will feature “time-honored recipes passed down from my ancestors, as well as my favorite Greek and Mediterranean dishes that my family loves.”

    She began working with Disney in 2008 by creating a Disney Video on Demand series to showcase ways to help families develop more healthy eating habits. “I’m extremely excited about this latest extension of my relationship with Disney,” she said. “Together, we’re going to develop a truly amazing contemporary Mediterranean restaurant.”

    The first and only female Iron Chef on Food Network's hit show “Iron Chef America,” Cora is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in New York. She also is Executive Chef for Bon Appétit magazine. In addition to hosting the instructional cooking demonstrations for Disney Video on Demand, Cora has been a featured chef at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival and at Disney’s California Food & Wine Festival at Disneyland Resort.
    ]]>    Disney puts Hong Kong expansion on holddbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-17T07:47:41-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-51http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-51
    Disney and the Hong Kong government have been embroiled in protracted discussions over financing a second phase of the world's smallest Disneyland and the first on Chinese soil.

    But Hong Kong Disneyland's visitor number projections failed to reach initial bullish predictions with the key Chinese tourist market now bogged down by a worldwide credit crunch and a decelerating economy that is discouraging travel.

    Disney said it would fire about 30 Hong Kong-based employees dubbed "Imagineers" that had helped conceptualize and plan the expansion.

    Some jobs might also go at Disney's home-turf of Burbank, California, as a result of the work stoppage, a source familiar with the situation told Reuters.

    The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said that Disney had already been funding creative efforts -- designing and envisioning the look of rides -- but decided to pull financing when it became clear that a deal with the government on expanding Disneyland was not imminent.

    "The uncertainty of the outcome requires us to immediately suspend all creative and design work on the project," the U.S. firm said in a statement.

    The source however did not rule out a resumption of that effort should Disney eventually strike a deal with the city. Disney has also signed a framework agreement with the local government in Shanghai to kick off a project, and said in January it intended to submit a proper plan for the park.

    The Hong Kong government expressed "grave concern" about the decision and urged Disney to reconsider.

    "We consider that (Disney's) laying off of Walt Disney Imagineers who have been working on the design of Hong Kong Disneyland's expansion will not be conducive to the discussions and are puzzled by the company's decision," a spokesperson for the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau said in a statement.

    Opened in 2005, Hong Kong Disneyland has been criticized for being far too small to attract repeat visitors despite its proximity to mainland China.

    "Despite this setback, The Walt Disney Company remains confident and committed to the long-term success of Hong Kong Disneyland," Disney said.

    An expansion could cost as much as HK$3 billion ($387 million), local media have reported. In December, the Sing Tao Daily newspaper reported that Disney -- in what was deemed an unusual concession -- may give the government a greater share in the project in repayment of a cash loan of nearly $800 million that the city had extended previously to the theme park.

    Hong Kong residents and lawmakers, for their part, have queried the financial viability of pumping more public money into the struggling park, on top of the hundreds of millions of dollars already loaned to the project.

    Disney has borrowed more than $1 billion for the project, including HK$6.1 billion it owed the city's government, due to be repaid over 25 years.

    In 2008, the theme park was forced to amend loan agreements after it failed to meet performance targets. That amended pact abolished targets but decreased the amount of a revolving credit facility.]]>    Pinocchio new meet and greet area is ready at Walt Disney Worlddbtn@me.comWDW2009-03-17T07:43:19-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-50http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-50
    Of course, those tattoos — along with signs around the garden party — make sure to include the helpful reminder that the 70th anniversary edition of the animated film will be released on DVD and Blu-ray on Tuesday.

    A Disney spokeswoman said the Pinocchio meet-and-greet will be in place until April 3.]]>    Re-Imagineering" Disney's California Adventuredbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-17T07:35:27-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-49http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-49Captain Tom Forberg: Disney Cruise Line Milestonesdbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-14T19:04:02-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-48http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-48
    Joining Disney Cruise Line in 1995, he holds the distinction of being the very first Crew Member hired in a shipboard role.

    “Captain Tom is a passionate professional who enjoys great recognition from his repeat passengers. He is admired by his crew, peers and shoreside partners,” said Tom Wolber, Disney Cruise Line’s Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

    Before coming aboard with Disney, Captain Tom spent 20 years working in the cruise industry, including 15 years as a cruise ship captain.

    Captain Tom said he jumped at the opportunity to come to Disney Cruise Line. “You couldn’t really go wrong joining one of the best-known companies in the world!”

    “I had been in the cruise industry for years doing more or less the same thing all the time," Captain Tom recalled. "So I thought to myself, 'If I join Disney, I’m sure they will have a lot of ideas of how to approach cruising in a whole new way.'”

    Captain Tom has been very happy with his Disney experiences, stating how particularly impressed he continues to be with the focus on the family cruise market and value that the company places in front line cast and crew.

    During the early years of the business, Captain Tom played a pivotal role in helping to supervise the construction of the Disney Magic at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy.

    When the construction was completed, he took control of the cruise liner to sail her from the shipyard to Florida.

    As the Disney Magic began her voyage, however, Mother Nature interrupted the fanfare. When the ship pulled away from the shipyard dock in Italy, a powerful thunderstorm packing 55 knot winds blew through the area. The spectators were soaked, but the ship was fine.

    That unexpected bad weather, however, was a good omen. “There’s a saying that if there’s bad weather the first time you take a ship out, then that ship will have good luck,” explained Captain Tom.

    Captain Tom certainly has experienced the good fortune as he has been in command of the Disney Magic for her most spectacular inaugural voyages: through the Panama Canal and to the West Coast in 2005 and to the Mediterranean in 2007.

    He said his role is still as exciting today as it was the first time he brought the ship into Port Canaveral. One of the best parts of the job, Captain Tom said, is meeting guests.

    “Sometimes,” he said, “we bring guests up to the bridge and invite them to blow the Mickey horn. Then we give them a certificate that says that they are part of a very exclusive club, because there are not many who can say they had that experience.”

    He said the compliments that we receive from guests are a direct reflection on the quality and dedication of the crew members.

    “I am very proud to be on the Disney Cruise Line team.”
    ]]>    Kids Sail for 50% Off on Disney Cruises this Springdbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-14T18:59:54-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-47http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-47CELEBRATION, Fla. - Families looking for a fun-filled getaway this spring can set sail on the most magical ships at sea with a new Disney Cruise Line "Kids Sail for 50% Off" offer. This special offer is available on all Disney Cruise Line itineraries, including three-, four- and seven-night sailings to The Bahamas and the Caribbean.

    Guests 12 and under can sail for half the price of prevailing cruise rate as quoted on disneycruise.com when accompanied by two full-fare paying guests within the same stateroom. This offer is valid for most sailings from March 26 through May 14, 2009, and covers all stateroom categories. While the cruise fare with this special offer is half price for guests 12 and under, guests who book will be responsible for Government Taxes and Fees for all stateroom occupants, including those 12 and under.

    This offer is available on all Disney Cruise Line itineraries, including the new seven-night eastern Caribbean itinerary featuring Tortola. The island features centuries-old ruins, botanical gardens, sugar mills, sensational bays and beaches. The itinerary also stops at St. Thomas and Disney's private island, Castaway Cay.

    Guests wishing to experience a shorter Disney cruise vacation can take advantage of this special offer on Disney Cruise Line's three- and four-night Bahamian itineraries aboard the Disney Wonder. The ship recently premiered "Toy Story - The Musical," an original stage spectacular featuring a new seven-song score, amazing costumes and larger-than-life scenery.

    Guests sailing with Disney Cruise Line during this period will have the opportunity to experience Disney Digital 3-D, a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience available on both the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder. Guests will delight as first-run Disney films leap off the silver screen and take on a whole new dimension thanks to 3-D technology installed in theatres onboard the ships.

    A leader in the family cruise segment, Disney Cruise Line delivers a cruise experience that every member of the family feels was created for their own individual vacation wants and needs. Departing from Port Canaveral, Fla., Disney Cruise Line offers three-, four- and seven-night itineraries to The Bahamas and the Caribbean.

    To book a vacation or to obtain complete details on the "Kids Sail for 50% Off" special offer, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com/kids50 or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500. When making the reservation, guests should ask for or input booking code KHO.]]>    Disneyland Resort Restaurants Win 15 Awards At Southern California Restaurant Writers Banquetdbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-14T18:55:22-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-46http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-46
    The 2008-09 awards were presented to Disneyland Resort restaurants and chefs at the recent Southern California Restaurant Writers Awards Banquet at the Richard Nixon Library and Birthplace in Yorba Linda, California. A highlight for Resort restaurants was the recognition of Alex Flores and Francisco Origel, sous chefs at the perennially popular Napa Rose in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, as co-winners of the “Sous Chef of the Year” award.

    Napa Rose was honored further with a Golden Bacchus Wine Award and a Golden Sceptre (Five Star) award, the highest, in the continental category. Steakhouse 55 at the Disneyland Hotel also received highest honors, with a Golden Bacchus Wine Award and a Golden Sceptre (Five Star) award in the American category. The awards reflect Disneyland Resort’s commitment to guest service, which has been enhanced under the guidance of Master Sommelier Michael Jordan and his wine education program. The Resort has 300 certified sommeliers who assist guests with the pairing of wine and food.

    Andrew Sutton, the executive chef who has helped guide the culinary success of Napa Rose since it opened in 2001, lauded the success of his sous chefs, saying, “This is a tribute to their hard work and dedication to the Napa Rose. Alex and Francisco have been instrumental in the restaurant’s success, contributing to the culinary vision with their expertise, dedication, talent and integrity.”

    Francisco Origel worked with Sutton for five years at Auberge du Soleil in the California wine country. He was promoted to sous chef at Auberge du Soleil in 1997 following a rigorous selection process. He joined the Napa Rose culinary team in fall of 2002. “Francisco has amazing plating and cooking skills that he loves to share with his fellow chefs,” Sutton said.

    Alex Flores was part of the opening culinary team for Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel in 2001, working in Storytellers Café. He moved to Napa Rose in June 2002 and worked his way through the culinary training program at all stations in the restaurant, being promoted to sous chef in 2007. “Alex is a self-starter and dedicated to his craft,” Sutton said. “He is incredibly imaginative and has the culinary disciplines to back it up with sound cooking and flavor combinations.”

    Napa Rose showcases California wine country cuisine with menu options that change seasonally to follow the holistic dining philosophy of Executive Chef Sutton. The restaurant features a 16,000-bottle wine cellar, more than 1,000 vintages and 80 wines available by the glass. At Steakhouse 55, which also earned top honors for the Disneyland Resort, guests experience classic and delectable American fare while enjoying the feel of vintage Hollywood through the restaurant’s retro décor. The restaurant is also home to the posh Lounge at Steakhouse 55 that features an extensive wine list and light menu of new and old American classics.

    With a total of 15 awards going to 12 restaurants – seven in Disneyland Resort hotels, two in Disneyland, two in Downtown Disney and one in Disney’s California Adventure – Disneyland Resort guests have a vast array of outstanding dining options.

    Guests will be able to meet some of the Disney chefs and enjoy hundreds of complimentary demonstrations at Disney’s California Food & Wine Festival, which runs April 24 through June 7 inside Disney’s California Adventure. For details and information, go to www.disneyland.com/foodandwine.

    The complete list of Disneyland Resort awards:

    Special Award Category
    • Sous Chef of the Year: Alex Flores/Francisco Origel (Napa Rose, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel)

    Golden Bacchus Wine Award
    • Napa Rose (Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel)
    • Steakhouse 55 (Disneyland Hotel)

    Golden Sceptre (Five Star):
    • Napa Rose (Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel)
    • Steakhouse 55 (Disneyland Hotel)

    Gold (Four Star)
    • Ariel’s Grotto (Paradise Pier, Disney’s California Adventure park)
    • Blue Bayou (New Orleans Square, Disneyland)
    • Café Orleans (New Orleans Square, Disneyland)
    • Hook’s Pointe & Wine Cellar (Disneyland Hotel)
    • Storyteller’s Café (Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel)
    • Yamabuki (Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel)

    Sterling (Three Star)
    • Goofy’s Kitchen (Disneyland Hotel)
    • Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen Downtown Disney)
    • Tortilla Jo’s (Downtown Disney)

    Silver (Two Star)
    • PCH Grill (Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel)

    The Southern California Restaurant Writers, Inc. has operated for 35 years as a non-profit seeking to improve the quality of restaurants in the region. Award winners are chosen from Santa Barbara south to the Mexican border.

    Disneyland Resort features two spectacular theme parks – Disneyland (the original Disney theme park) and Disney’s California Adventure – plus the Downtown Disney District comprised of unique dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. The Resort’s three hotels are the luxurious 745-room Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the magical 988-room Disneyland Hotel and the “day-at-the-beach” fun of the 489-room Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel. For information on attractions, “What Will You Celebrate?” and vacations at Disneyland Resort, visit www.disneyland.com, call (866) 60-DISNEY or contact local travel agents.]]>    Disney Announces Names for New Cruise Shipsdbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-11T13:05:57-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-43http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-43CELEBRATION, Fla. (March 10, 2009) – Today at the 2009 Annual Meeting of Shareholders of The Walt Disney Company, Disney announced the names of the company’s two new cruise ships.

    “Last week, steel cutting began on our next two Disney cruise ships. Today I’m pleased to announce their names,” said Robert A. Iger, Disney president and CEO. “The Disney Dream will set sail in 2011, while the Disney Fantasy will hit the high seas in 2012.”

    Similar to the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the names were chosen to celebrate Disney’s unique heritage of creating enchanting places and stories where dreams really do come true.

    “The names are very telling of our brand and are part of our history,” said Karl Holz, president of Disney Cruise Line and New Vacation Operations. “Disney is known for making dreams come true, and for creating worlds of fantasy that go beyond the imagination. The names are a natural choice for our ships.”

    As noted, Disney Cruise Line began construction on the new ships with a steel cutting ceremony at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. The first piece of steel cut was part of the art deco inspired scrollwork that will grace the bow of the ships. Similar to the scrollwork on the existing Disney Cruise Line ships, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the intricate pattern is reminiscent of the classic ocean liners of the 1930s, with added touches of Disney whimsy.

    Since finalizing a contract with the Meyer Werft shipyard to build the two new ships, Disney Cruise Line and Walt Disney Imagineering have created a truly distinctive design. Over the next few years, construction will continue, bringing the design to reality, with the Disney Dream scheduled for delivery in 2011 and the Disney Fantasy in 2012.

    The new ships will be purpose built with families in mind, and specially designed areas and activities for each member of the family to allow for both quality time together and wonderful individual experiences. The focus is to provide a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and kids can immerse themselves in worlds only Disney can create.

    The expansion will more than double the passenger capacity for Disney Cruise Line. Each ship will have 1,250 staterooms and will each be 128,000 tons.

    To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at (888) DCL-2500. Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at (888) 325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com.]]>    Bob Iger Video Announcement of D23dbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-10T18:39:29-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-42http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-42
    Here is the Video Announcement

    ]]>    Disney Vacation Club Scheduled to Open Kidani Village, Second Phase of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villiasdbtn@me.comAnimal Kingdom2009-03-10T18:34:01-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-41http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-41
    “We continue to see strong demand from families who want to build a lifetime of unforgettable memories by vacationing in ways they never dreamed possible,” said Jim Lewis, president of Disney Vacation Club. “Disney Vacation Club is entering a new era with Kidani Village, as it’s the first of four new properties opening in 2009.”

    Vacation villas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas feature intricate African-inspired details and home-like amenities, and most offer sweeping views of an expanded savannah inhabited by a variety of African animals. Guests at this resort hotel live their very own true-life adventure in a setting inspired by the intrepid explorers and historic expeditions of 19th century Africa.

    Walt Disney Imagineers designed the new village of vacation villas to feel curiously at home in the natural world. The architectural style evokes the look of a thatched-roof, hewn-timber structure that appears to emerge organically from the land beneath it, drifting in and out of view from lush landscapes like a giraffe hiding in the tall grasses of the savannah. Add authentic artwork, imaginative architectural details and Disney’s world-class brand of storytelling, and the result is an immersive village unlike any other.

    Jambo House, which includes 109 remodeled two-bedroom-equivalent accommodations on the fifth and sixth floors of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, opened in July 2007 and is considered phase one of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas. The first rooms of Kidani Village are scheduled to open May 1, 2009, with the remaining rooms planned for a fall 2009 opening. Upon its completion, Kidani Village is planned to include 340 two-bedroom-equivalent vacation villas, for a total of 449 two-bedroom-equivalent accommodations at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas.

    The opening of Kidani Village will also include new additions to the resort, such as Sanaa, a table-service restaurant celebrating African-inspired cuisine with an Indian touch; Samawati Springs, a themed pool area; Uwanja Camp, a themed water-play area; Survival of the Fittest, a fitness center; Johari Treasures, a merchandise shop, and much more.]]>    DISNEY'S D23 EXPO COMES TO SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA IN SEPTEMBER 2009!dbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-10T17:54:57-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-40http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-40
    Highlights of the D23 Expo will include:

    Keynote speakers: Some of The Walt Disney Company's most dynamic executives will be on hand to break news, including Disney President and CEO Bob Iger, Walt Disney Pictures Chairman Dick Cook, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Jay Rasulo and John Lasseter, chief creative director, Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios!

    World Premiere Screenings: Get an early look at some of the Company's latest projects.

    Performances, Celebrities and a Fashion Show: Musical performances from chart-topping Disney talent will put some bounce in your step! Meanwhile, talent from Walt Disney Pictures films, ABC, Disney Channel, ESPN and more will be on hand for meet-and-greets. Need a little more fun? Disney Couture will debut its new line at a fabulous fashion show.

    50 and Fabulous Film Festival: Check out three classic Disney films that all turn 50 this year, including Darby O'Gill and the Little People, The Shaggy Dog and Sleeping Beauty.

    Readings, Signing, and Q&As: Check out surprising gallery events, author appearances and signings and even a beautiful Disney Home to walk through.

    Film and TV Sneak Peeks: Check out exclusive clips from the latest films from Walt Disney Studios and watch some of ABC's new fall offerings.

    Eye-Popping Exhibits: The incredible experiences, exhibits and presentations at the Expo are another way D23 will connect fans to the timeless stories, characters and amazing worlds that we create here at Disney. Guests entering the main showroom floor of the recently renovated Convention Center will discover exciting pavilions from every part of The Walt Disney Company. Each will offer unique immersive experiences the whole family can enjoy. Parks and Resorts, Walt Disney Records, Disney Consumer Products, ABC, ESPN and Walt Disney Imagineering — to name a few — will all be featured. There will be surprising gallery events, author appearances and signings and even a beautiful Disney Home to walk through. Radio Disney will rock the Expo every day, and you can expect favorite Disney talent to make appearances throughout the event. (We hear there may even be a wedding!)

    Disney Dream Store: From pins and mouse ears to DVDs and music, there will be must haves for everyone at the largest Disney shopping experience ever created. Even more special, there will be limited edition collectibles on sale exclusively for D23 members.

    Fan Forum: Disney's biggest fans are invited to participate in all the action. There will be an entire convention hall for everyone to show off their collections and sell their Disney treasures.

    Admission to the D23 Expo will be $37 per person for a one-day ticket; $111 for a four-day pass (4th day free). Admission for D23 members will be $30 per person for a one-day ticket; $90 for a four-day pass (4th day free). Tickets will be available at Disney.com/D23. Remaining tickets will be available for purchase at the entrance to the D23 Expo. Tickets will go on sale this spring. Check the D23 Web site for more information. Members will be alerted the day tickets go on sale.

    Stay tuned for more details!]]>    Disney Launches New Web Site: Art of Disney Parksdbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-10T17:45:26-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-39http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-39
    Visit the new Art of Disney Parks website]]>    D23 - Disney's first official community for fans - UPDATEdbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-10T12:35:47-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-38http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-38Disney Announces "D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans
    Disney’s First Official Fan Organization Launches with
    New Quarterly Publication, Web Site, Fan Events and Collectibles Line

    First Quarterly Publication Features Exclusive Interviews with Tim Burton, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens, as well as behind-the-scenes visit to Pixar Animation Studios

    Oakland and Burbank, CALIF. – March 10, 2009 – Disney today announced the launch of D23 (www.Disney.com/D23), the first official community for Disney fans in the Company’s 85-year history. Through D23, fans will go backstage and behind closed doors to get the inside scoop from every part of Disney, while experiencing the nostalgia, adventure and fantasy of Disney as never before.

    “We have a fantastic legacy that started in 1923 and is based on timeless stories, beloved characters and unforgettable experiences, but it’s our fans that keep the spirit of Disney alive year after year, generation after generation,” said Disney President and CEO Bob Iger at the Company’s annual shareholder’s meeting. “D23 is our way of saying ‘thank you’ and celebrating our fans, who bring the magic of Disney to life every day in every corner of the world.”

    As a part of this new Disney fan experience, today also marks the launch of D23’s new quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; the all-new D23 Web site at Disney.com/D23; and a new collectibles line, The Walt Disney Archives Collection, which was created specifically with D23 members in mind. D23 also will host special events for its members throughout the year, highlighted by the organization’s signature event, the D23 Expo, which will be held in Anaheim this September 10-13.

    A one-year D23 membership ($74.99) includes:

    • Disney twenty-three quarterly publication: A one-year subscription (four issues) to D23’s new collectible magazine filled with stunning photography, dazzling illustrations and the ultimate Disney insider perspective. This advertising-free keepsake is the all-access pass to discovering the magic of Disney’s past, present and future.
    • Membership Certificate and Card: The D23 membership card and suitable-for-framing member certificate – both specially created for D23’s Charter Year -- feature many of Disney’s most beloved characters.
    • Surprise Collectible Gift and Member Merchandise: Each member who joins D23 will receive an exclusive collectible gift from the new Walt Disney Archives Collection. This merchandise line was created specifically with D23 members in mind, and each piece is authorized by the Walt Disney Archives. D23 members will have exclusive or early access to a wide assortment of Walt Disney Archives Collection pieces.
    • D23 Expo and Member Special Events: The D23 Expo – to be held at the Anaheim Convention Center from September 10-13, 2009 -- will be “The Ultimate Disney Fan Experience,” featuring incredible speakers, celebrity appearances, breathtaking exhibitions, interactive experiences, sneak peeks, film screenings, one-of-a-kind merchandise, and much more. All Disney fans are welcome, but D23 members will receive a discount on Expo admissions and early access to the show daily. D23 also offers unique members-only special event opportunities throughout the year.
    • Disney.com/D23: All fans can stay connected to Disney every day through D23’s new Web site, featuring up-to-the-minute Disney news, feature stories, event info and more, but only D23 members will receive regular email updates on special event and merchandise opportunities exclusive to them.


    Disney twenty-three quarterly publication

    Disney today launches its new quarterly publication Disney twenty-three, a hybrid entertainment and lifestyle magazine that is the all-access pass to discovering the magic of Disney’s past, present and future. Its name pays homage to 1923, the year The Walt Disney Company was founded.

    The premiere issue of Disney twenty-three includes exclusive features such as:

    • Interviews with Tim Burton, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens
    • Inside look at the new Disney/Pixar animated film Up, featuring interviews with Director Pete Docter and Producer Jonas Rivera, concept and production art, and a look at the new animated short Partly Cloudy.
    • A rare look inside Pixar Animation Studios in Emeryville, California. Meet the Pixar team and learn the secrets behind the success of their films.
    • The doors open for two of the most exclusive, magical suites in the world: the Cinderella Castle Suite at Walt Disney World and the Disneyland Dream Suite overlooking New Orleans Square and the Rivers of America at the Disneyland Resort.

    Disney twenty-three’s regular featured departments include:

    • A Walk with Walt: A look back at the trials and triumphs of the man who made dreams come true and whose imagination started it all.
    • D Society: From gala movie premieres and grand openings to candid Disney moments and memories, D Society takes readers backstage and onto the red carpet.
    • PHOTOfiles: The legendary Walt Disney Archives Photo Library houses millions of Disney’s most cherished photographic memories, and the Archives team shares its Top 100, five in every issue. Let the countdown begin!
    • Where in D?: Try to identify where in the world of Disney each issue’s mystery photo was taken.
    • The Funny Pages: For the first time in decades, enjoy the vintage newspaper comic strips that helped make many of Disney’s most popular characters famous.
    • Making Magic: Crafts for children of all ages, inspired by Disney’s favorite stories and experiences.
    • Recipes from Disney’s most popular restaurants and eateries, past and present.
    • Disney twenty-three subscriptions are available only by becoming a member of D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans. Individual issues of Disney twenty-three retail for $15.95 and are available exclusively at all U.S. Barnes & Noble booksellers, all domestic Disney Stores, Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World, and Disneyshopping.com.



    DISNEY.COM/D23

    The D23 site on Disney.com will serve as the premier online destination for Disney fans, highlighted by breaking Disney news, exclusive feature stories, blogs, historical retrospectives, a collectibles boutique, special event information, and other content. The D23 online experience includes News & Features, Walt Disney Archives, Disney twenty-three, Expo & Events, and Boutique23. Highlights include:

    NEWS & FEATURES

    • Late-breaking news, press releases, and photos of interest to fans from every part of Disney.
    • “Twilight Bark” – inspired by the Disney animated feature 101 Dalmatians – offers up the latest tidbits and news “bites” from all around the world of Disney.
    • Feature articles and interviews on current Disney topics from theme parks and animation to television and motion pictures, as well as historical retrospectives.
    • Official Disney Bloggers – Get regular updates on films in production at Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, current Walt Disney Imagineering projects, and the Walt Disney Archives.

    WALT DISNEY ARCHIVES
    • “This Day in Disney” – A daily walk down memory lane.
    • “What’s Old Is News” – Go back in time and enjoy rare, vintage and classic articles, stories, interviews, press materials and other highlights from deep within the Disney Archives.
    • “Ask Dave” – Disney Legend and Chief Archivist Dave Smith answers your questions about Disney history.
    • “Archives Library” – helpful Disney reference tools including biographies, filmographies, award chronologies, Disney A to Z updates, historical profiles and other archival information.

    DISNEY TWENTY-THREE

    • The online home of Disney twenty-three, D23’s quarterly publication.
    • Expanded stories, interviews and imagery.
    • “D Society: Online Edition” – regularly updated photo gallery.
    • “The Funny Page: Daily Edition” – a delightful daily dose of vintage Disney comics that haven’t been seen outside the Disney Archives in decades.
    • “Making Magic” – An archive of the unique crafts featured in Disney twenty-three.
    • “Disney Dish” – Always be able to find your favorite recipes from Disney twenty-three.

    EXPO & EVENTS

    • “D23 Expo” – The official Web site for everything you need to know about “The Ultimate Disney Fan Experience” September 10–13, at the Anaheim Convention Center, including programming, show hours, celebrity appearances, keynote speakers, ticket information, vacation packages, and more.
    • “D23 Member Special Events” – Throughout the year, D23 hosts special events created just for its members. Members can find out which ones they want to attend and how to register.


    BOUTIQUE 23
    D23 merchandise and collectibles, including D23 member-only offerings from the Walt Disney Archives Collection
    Hosted by Disneyshopping.com

    D23 membership
    D23 membership is not required to visit Disney.com/D23, but some merchandise and special event opportunities are exclusive to D23 members.

    Fans can join D23 at www.Disney.com/D23, all Disney Store locations within the United States, select shops at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, and www.DisneyShopping.com/D23.

    About D23

    The name “D23” pays homage to the wonder and excitement that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood. Through the years, Disney has captured the imagination of millions around the world, and, as requested by Disney fans everywhere, D23 gives them a greater, richer connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic.

    ]]>    D23 comming soondbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-09T18:18:12-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-37http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-37
    Exclusive membership club

    Exclusive clothing line

    A new lifestyle magazine

    I think the last option is what is going to be announced BUT I would love to see an adult only clothing line.

    I guess we all will find out tomorrow. If you want to send me your thought please do so at DBTN@me.com
    ]]>    ZAC EFRON AWAKENS 'SLEEPING BEAUTY' VANESSA HUDGENSdbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-09T18:15:09-04:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-36http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-36
    http://www.etonline.com/news/2009/03/71564/]]>    Disney Cruise Line Begins New Ship Construction dbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-07T08:34:58-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-35http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-35

    0302AR_0971KP_66279_maintLarge

    “When we launched our business in 1998, we recognized a need in the marketplace for a cruise experience created just for families,” said Karl L. Holz, president of Disney Cruise Line and New Vacation Operations. “With these new ships, we are continuing to build upon that vision of providing more families with an unforgettable cruise vacation and the chance to explore new destinations with Disney.”

    The first piece of steel cut for the new ships was part of the art deco inspired scrollwork that will grace the bow of the ships. Similar to the scrollwork on the Disney Cruise Line ships, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the intricate pattern is reminiscent of the classic ocean liners of the 1930s, designed to reflect the glamour of the golden age of cruising with added touches of Disney whimsy, such as the Mickey Mouse medallion in the center of the design.

    Since finalizing a contract with the Meyer Werft shipyard to build the two new ships, Disney Cruise Line and Walt Disney Imagineering have created a truly distinctive design for the new ships. Over the next few years, construction will continue, bringing the design to reality. The design details will be unveiled at a later date.

    Holz noted that the fleet expansion will more than double the passenger capacity for Disney Cruise Line. Each ship will have 1,250 staterooms and will weigh 128,000 tons. Similar to the existing ships, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the new ships will be purpose built with families in mind, with specially designed areas and activities for each member of the family to allow for both quality time together and wonderful individual experiences. The focus is to provide a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and kids can immerse themselves in worlds of fantasy only Disney can create.

    Known for bringing family travel to the cruise market, Disney continues to be a leader in the industry and was recently named the top large cruise ship experience by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine in the 9th annual “Reader’s Cruise Poll.” The Disney Wonder, which sails three- and four-night cruises to The Bahamas, was ranked as the No. 1 cruise ship in the “Large Ship” category. The Disney Magic was also ranked in the top five cruise experiences overall. The Disney Magic primarily sails seven-night cruises to the eastern and western Caribbean and, beginning in the spring of 2010, will embark on a season of limited itineraries exploring Northern Europe and the Mediterranean.

    To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at (888) DCL-2500. Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at (888) 325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com.

    ]]>    Disney's California Food & Wine Festival Celebrates Flavors of the World in 2009dbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-07T08:31:33-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-34http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-34
    Tickets for the premier events - which include unique opportunities to go “Behind the Scenes With …” celebrity chefs and winemakers - are available for purchase now at www.disneyland.com/foodandwine.

    More than 600 complimentary experiences will be available at the fourth annual Disney’s California Food & Wine Festival, including culinary demonstrations, children’s programs and wine and spirits seminars. In addition, food and wine aficionados will get tips from Disneyland Resort chefs, mingle with noted winemakers and celebrate at the spectacular ticketed events, including the gala Festival finale “Taste Food-Wine-Life.”

    “The 2009 Disney’s California Food and Wine Festival will take guests on a delicious journey around the globe,” said Gary Maggetti, director of food and beverage for Disneyland Resort theme parks. “We invite guests to celebrate their favorite foods and wines with our great variety of events, and to explore new tastes and flavors with our outstanding chefs and wine experts.”

    Food & Wine Festival events held in Disney's California Adventure require park admission, which is not included in the event price. Some events may require an additional fee and pre-registration.

    Featured celebrity chefs, including Guy Fieri of the Food Network, along with nearly 100 Disneyland Resort chefs will conduct cooking demonstrations that showcase their talents and an international mix of delectable dishes. Guests will collect cooking tips while they watch the pros in action, discovering new twists on timeless classics and sampling the festival cuisine. Guests will also taste delicious festival-inspired dishes at the Wine Country Trattoria, Pacific Wharf Café, Farmer’s Market and other eateries inside Disney’s California Adventure park.

    New Events for 2009
    Guests will enjoy several new signature events this year.
    • Behind the Scenes With… ¬– Unique opportunities to share food, wine and conversation with cooking personalities from popular television programs and celebrity winemakers. The stars include Guy Fieri (“Guy’s Big Bite”), Keegan Geerhard (“Food Network Challenge), Tommy Lasorda (Lasorda Wines), and John and Nancy Lasseter (Lasseter Family Winery). The evenings begin with tasty appetizers and exquisite wines, followed by question-and-answer sessions hosted by Chef Jamie Gwen.
    • Sweet Sundays – The sweetest of all events features a light buffet breakfast and sparkling wine at the Golden Vine Winery at Disney’s California Adventure. Guests will see demonstrations and taste three signature desserts created by acclaimed pastry chefs, including chefs from Sweet Cheeks Baking Co. in San Diego and Cake Monkey Bakery in Los Angeles.
    • Festival Wine Walks ¬- Guests will explore wines of the world, or a single region, when they purchase a tasting passport and select up to four tastes of spectacular wines. A tasting tour that features craft brews will also be available. Delicious wine country tapas that complement the beer and wine will be available at The Lounge at the Golden Vine Winery.
    • World Celebration Dinners – Disneyland Resort chefs will create an elegant menu that blends the food, wine and celebrations of regions around the world. France, Japan, Korea, Italy and Spain will be featured.
    • Master Sommelier Michael Jordan, of the award-winning Napa Rose restaurant, will add a new class to his “Introduction to Wine Tasting.” The “Advanced Wine Class” includes three two-hour sessions that take guests to the next level in their knowledge of wine regions, varietals, growing and harvesting style. Both entertaining classes will offer training as well as a blind tasting to test the participants’ skills.

    Popular Returning Events
    Events returning for 2009 feature Disneyland Resort chefs and premier winemakers.
    • Winemaker Dinners - Disneyland Resort chefs will partner with premier California winemakers to prepare outstanding culinary delights at six exclusive “Winemaker Dinners,” on selected Friday nights. Each Festival meal will be paired with award-winning vintages and served at Steakhouse 55, inside the Disneyland Hotel.
    • Napa Rose Cooking School - Disney Executive Chef Andrew Sutton will once again lead this hands-on course that sells out quickly. Each class will create and enjoy a themed meal paired with wines and each class member will go home with an official chef’s coat to commemorate the experience. This amazing opportunity takes place in the show kitchen of the renowned Napa Rose restaurant at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. Guests must be at least 18 years of age and advance reservations are required.
    • Festival Wine Receptions – Guests will have an opportunity to enjoy a beautiful sunset and weekend evening under the stars, on the patio of the Golden Vine Winery inside Disney’s California Adventure park. While sampling from a variety of selected wines and enjoying hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, guests will meet fellow wine enthusiasts, make new friends and discover new favorite wines.

    For more details and pricing information, visit www.disneyland.com/foodandwine]]>    BUNDLE OF JOY: Walt Disney World Resort recently welcomed a black and white colobus monkeydbtn@me.comWDW2009-03-07T08:16:54-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-33http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-33

    0305AR_0191GD53712492
    (Gene Duncan, photographer)

    ]]>    WDW - New store coming to Downtown Disneydbtn@me.comWDW2009-03-06T20:42:11-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-30http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-30

    Fashion-conscious shoppers seeking trendy apparel and novel accessories will find a unique environment - filled with textured fabrics, silhouettes and whimsical art and design - that pushes the creative envelope while blending high fashion and classic Disney characters. The eclectic environment offers a raw and unfinished feel with jeweled chandeliers, distinct light fixtures and mod furnishings.

    Merchandise includes organic loungewear, embroidered handbags, jeweled sunglasses and playful accessories. Designers such as Kidada Jones, Tarina Tarantino and Roxy fuse their individual style with Disney-inspired creations.

    This is the place to go if you are looking for unique fashion items. Much of the merchandise is not available anywhere else at Downtown Disney Area - or even anywhere else at Walt Disney World Resort!

    TrenD is a 2,500 - square-foot shop in the Downtown Disney Marketplace near Pin Traders and Once Upon A Toy.

    SH_TD_998

    ]]>    WDW - Disney Planner: Summer 2009dbtn@me.comWDW2009-03-03T12:41:50-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-29http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-29

    Summer Fun at The American Idol Experience



    While guests are usually the ones to enjoy the attractions and shows at Walt Disney World Resort, “The American Idol Experience” places Disney’s Hollywood Studios guests in the spotlight, immersing them in the thrill of auditioning and performing or voting on their favorite musical performances.
    Modeled after the famous “American Idol” television show, the newly opened Walt Disney World attraction makes dreams come true by showcasing the talents of park guests age 14 and older who have aced the auditions (audition slots are limited and interested guests are encouraged to arrive early).
    Like the television show, fans – not the onstage judges – have the final say on who is deemed the best of the best. With seating to accommodate 1,000 audience members, the high-tech theater is wired so guests can vote for their favorite singer.

    What Will You Celebrate? Adds Gifting Option, Park Fun


    During “What Will You Celebrate?” inviting Disney Parks guests to turn their personal milestones into magical Disney experiences, ways for guests to customize and personalize a visit are endless.

    With everything from fireworks cruises, street parties and behind-the-scenes tours to specialty cakes and in-room decorations to choose from, guests who have decided their answer to “What Will You Celebrate?” have more choices as they ponder, “How will I celebrate?” The fun is nonstop, too, with a party spirit stamping the new “Move It, Shake It, Celebrate It!” street party in the Magic Kingdom. Floats, a cast of Disney characters, stilt walkers and more “move it” down Main Street, U.S.A. accompanied by high-energy tunes and an open invitation to guests to come join the fun.

    Main Street, U.S.A. also is home to the Celebrate a Dream Come True parade, a tweaked send-up of the former Dreams Come True parade with changes to some of the floats and soundtracks and the grand marshal in the lead role. Singers and dancers as before invite guests lining the parade route to come join in the celebration.

    With all there is to do in Disney parks, guests can tailor a celebration with favorite attractions, favorite characters and special experiences. Thanks to new Web planning tools, learning about available choices and then customizing a “celebration vacation” itinerary – or “gifting” a celebrating family member or friend with a personalized Disney experience – is easier than ever. Through www.disneyparks.com, guests (or their travel agents) choose the celebration destination – Disneyland Resort in California or Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. With a click, they access an interactive online celebration “planner” to shop the many experiences that are a cornerstone of a “celebration vacation” at Disney Parks – experiences that transform guests into the stars of their own party whether the occasion is a birthday, anniversary, Quinceanera, personal triumph or any celebration.

    Now there is also a way to participate in a guest’s upcoming celebration visit when you can’t be there: by “gifting.” The giver reviews the possibilities using the online planner, then calls a Disney Dream Maker to personalize and customize the gift. At Walt Disney World Resort, Dream Makers can be reached at 407/WDW-GIFT.

    Star Wars Weekends Returns to Disney’s Hollywood Studios


    Once again, the power of the Force and the magic of Disney combine in May and June for Star Wars Weekends, a sci-fi fan-fest inspired by the popular film saga.

    Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from May 22-June 14, 2009, Disney’s Hollywood Studios becomes the temporary home for a band of out-of-this-world characters, including Wookiees, Sith, droids, Jedi, Ewoks, bounty hunters and Rodians. Dates are May 22-24, May 29-31, June 5-7 and June 12-14.

    A giant, “A to Z” gathering of Star Wars characters – from Anakin Skywalker to Zam Wesell – will roam the streets of the theme park during meet-and-greet sessions. Jedi Training Academy – one of the interactive entertainment experiences featured in the theme park – takes place throughout the day on the event’s main stage and allows young guests to learn from a Jedi Master before testing newly acquired skills in a battle with Darth Vader.

    Also featured: the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind Star Wars memorabilia, Star Wars trivia contests, special Star Wars parades, rides on the famed Star Tours attraction, and autograph sessions and star conversations with famous Star Wars actors and creative geniuses.

    Event activities are included in theme park admission. For more information, guests may go online to www.starwars.com or www.disneyworld.com/starwarsweekends.

    Hall of Presidents to Reopen in July


    A July reopening is planned for the Hall of Presidents, an iconic attraction in Magic Kingdom. An Audio-Animatronics version of President Barack Obama will join representations of the previous 43 presidents of the United States as part of an attraction that has been celebrating American history since Walt Disney World Resort opened in 1971. Disney Imagineers are also updating a broad array of show elements.

    Whole New World of Lodging Greets Summer Guests


    New home-like accommodations presented by Disney Vacation Club are debuting in time for summer guests. New options will combine to revive “treehouse living” at Walt Disney World Resort and immerse guests in the African experience.

    Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa – Treehouse living, a cherished Disney World tradition from 1975-2002, returns with the opening (scheduled for summer) of 60 three-bedroom villas elevated 10 feet off the ground on pedestals and beams designed to blend into the forest glens where they are nestled, providing Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa with a new room category.

    Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Fresh from the conversion of select rooms at Jambo House (at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge) into vacation villas, Kidani Village is taking shape (for phased openings scheduled in the spring and fall) with thatched roofs and hewn timber design. Kidani means “necklace,” and the building is shaped like a piece of native African jewelry with villas forming the beads, garden-like walkways creating the knots in between and the lobby representing the ornament or jewel at its center. With the spring opening comes Sanaa, a new family dining location, featuring savanna views and serving familiar foods from tandoor ovens and slow-cooked specialties with flavorful spices of Africa.

    Disney Vacation Club accommodations can be booked by anyone for overnight stays through www.disneyworld.com or by calling 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639).

    Walt Disney World Resort Debuts Online Check-In Service

    Walt Disney World Resort has launched Online Check-In Service, designed to simplify and streamline guest arrivals. The new service is complimentary and available to guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels and Disney Vacation Club resorts.

    Within 10 days of their arrival dates, guests are able to provide check-in information, advise the resort of their arrival times and request room preferences (although those cannot be guaranteed). Guests can also register the names of all the people in their party and provide a credit card to cover charges at the resort hotel.

    Upon arrival at their resorts, guests visit a special welcome location where their room keys and other registration material are waiting. Disney Cast Members are also available to provide additional information and answer questions.

    Meeting professionals can also arrange private group check-in at a Disney resort convention center or other locations.

    For more information about the new Online Check-In Service or to make a resort reservation, call 407-W-DISNEY or your local travel agent or click on disneyworld.com.

    New and Aloft at Downtown Disney: Aerophile!


    Imagine an eagle’s-eye view of the Downtown Disney area, with sweeping, 10-mile panoramas of Lake Buena Vista and environs. Downtown Disney greets summer guests with a new iconic attraction in the form of a giant tethered balloon – Aerophile -- that will take guests 300 feet into the air from the waterfront. The 72-foot-diameter balloon can lift up to 30 guests at a time on a six-minute ‘’flight,’’ by day or night. Aerophile made a spring debut at Downtown Disney’s West Side. It joins other newcomers at Downtown Disney for summer:
    TrenD, a hip new Downtown Disney Marketplace boutique with urban-inspired fashions.
    Disney Design-a-Tee, presented by Hanes, inviting Marketplace guests to personalize the popular souvenir to their own tastes.
    T-Rex : A Prehistoric Family Adventure, A Place to Eat, Shop, Explore and Discover – a fun prehistoric environment millions of years in the making.
    Downtown Disney restaurant from E-Brands, featuring Mexican and South American cuisine.

    ‘’Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration’’ Dance Party Debuts


    He’s the Guru of Gross-Out, the Maker of Mischief. Now, everybody’s favorite galactic pal stars in ‘’Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration,’’ a high-energy, retro-futuristic music video dance party in Magic Kingdom. The fun features Stitch, an interactive dance troupe and a DJ celebration host who invites all Tomorrowland guests to come party, dance and celebrate.
    Read more…]]>    Disneyland - Celebration Pointdbtn@me.comBlog2009-03-03T12:27:58-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-28http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/mar-2009#unique-entry-id-28

    decor_home

    ]]>    Breathless II at Disney's Yacht Club is going out of servicedbtn@me.comWDW2009-02-26T20:31:55-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-27http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-27
    Built in the early 1990’s, Breathless II is a Hacker Craft replica of a 1920’s runabout. Measuring 26 feet in length, the boat is hand crafted and made out of solid mahogany. Everything about the boat is completely authentic, except the CD player, which was added, and the engine. Disney installed an 8.1 Mercury Marine engine with 420 horsepower.

    Breathless II is used for 30-minute day cruises on Crescent Lake, as well as evening specialty cruises to see Epcot’s Illuminations: Reflections of Earth. However, due to this refurbishment, all day and evening cruises on Breathless II have been canceled. For guests who booked an evening specialty cruise there is an option to still be able to see the fireworks on a cruise. Instead of taking the cruise on Breathless II, guests will be offered a pontoon boat instead. You will still get the same view as you would on Breathless II, the only thing missing will be the speed of the cruise before the show begins.

    While Breathless II is out of service any damages will be repaired, the faded finish sanded down and redone and the seats will be mended. When she returns to service she will feel like a brand new boat.

    If you booked a day or evening cruise on Breathless II during March or April, call 407-WDW-PLAY for an update, to switch your boat or to cancel your cruise. If you have booked a cruise, you should have already received a call regarding the refurbishment of the boat, but if you have not, call ahead just in case.

    IMGP0037(1)2008-RES-YB004(1)]]>    Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln' Will Return to Disneyland Later This Yeardbtn@me.comDisneyland2009-02-26T20:17:46-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-25http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-25
    The current Opera House presentation, “Disneyland: The First 50 Magical Years,” will go on hiatus beginning Monday, March 16, in preparation for the new “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln” show. When the updated “Disneyland Story, featuring Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln” opens later this year, “Disneyland: The First 50 Magical Years” will be presented as part of the “Disneyland Story” display of art, models and mementoes in the Opera House lobby.

    Also planned for fall 2009 is a prominent new home on Main Street, U.S.A., for The Disney Gallery. Formerly located above Pirates of the Caribbean in New Orleans Square, The Disney Gallery houses treasured Disney artwork and collectibles representing creative efforts from throughout The Walt Disney Company. A frequently changing exhibit area often includes never-before-displayed art. The Disney Gallery’s new home will be in the Bank of Main Street building, located next door to the Main Street Opera House and currently serving as the headquarters for Disneyland Resort Annual Passport processing. The Bank will continue to operate as an Annual Passport center until mid-summer 2009. After that, Annual Passport processing will move to the Plaza Pavilion, near the entrance to Adventureland.

    The original “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln” was created by Walt Disney and his Imagineers for the State of Illinois Pavilion at the 1964 New York World’s Fair and featured the world’s first fully animated human Audio-Animatronics figure, built by Walt Disney Imagineering. The show, made its Disneyland debut in the Main Street Opera House on July 18, 1965.]]>    Two Disneyland Resort Jungle Cruise Skippers Set to 'Spiel' Their Way to Tokyo Disney Resortdbtn@me.comBlog2009-02-26T20:14:25-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-24http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-24ANAHEIM, Calif - Two Jungle Cruise skippers from the Disneyland Resort, Kevin Lively and Mickey Wright, set sail today for Tokyo, where they will join other lucky Jungle Cruise skippers from Disney Parks around the world to take part in a unique opportunity that can only be found at a Disney park.

    In conjunction with the 25th anniversary of the Tokyo Disney Resort, the Oriental Land Company, which owns and operates the resort, granted a unique dream wish to Jungle Cruise supervisor, Kenichi Ito. Ito's dream was to bring to the Tokyo Disney Resort Disney Jungle Cruise skippers from around the world who delivered the best spiels - providing this select group of skippers with an opportunity to share best practices and, of course, their best Jungle Cruise material.
    "This is an incredible experience for me," said Lively. "It is truly an honor to be a part of this elite group of skippers and to be chosen to represent the original Jungle Cruise attraction."
    Lively and Wright competed against 60 other Jungle Cruise skippers, where they practiced their very best material in front of an esteemed panel of "celebrity judges." Judges included Chief Creative Officer of Pixar Studios and Walt Disney Animation Studios John Lasseter, who once served as a Jungle Cruise skipper, and Executive Vice President and Walt Disney Imagineering Ambassador Marty Sklar.
    "All the skippers were terrific, every single one," said Sklar. "They were all able to use their own unique style during their performances to make the jokes funny every time. We had a tough time deciding the winners."
    Since the attraction debuted at Disneyland in 1955, the skipper role has always been one of interaction and fun, telling the story of the Jungle Cruise through silly banter with the guests aboard.
    The event, which is being paid for by the Oriental Land Company, takes place Feb. 27 through Mar. 6, and will include a two-day tour of Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. Skippers also will go through training on the Tokyo Jungle Cruise attraction and have the opportunity to present their winning spiels to fellow Jungle Cruise skippers.]]>    Top Walt Disney World restaurant executive will take buyoutdbtn@me.comWDWDining2009-02-26T20:08:52-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-23http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-23
    The man who has led the development of new restaurants at Walt Disney World for more than a decade is stepping down.

    Dieter Hannig, Disney World's vice president for food and beverage new concepts, said this week that he will leave the resort at the end of March.

    "I'm sad to say goodbye," Hannig said. "But you know, we must be willing to let go of the life we had planned in order to have the life we have waiting for us."

    Hannig, 59, accepted one of the buyouts that Disney last month offered to more than 600 executives across its domestic theme-park division, as the Burbank, Calif.-based media and entertainment giant cuts costs amid a deepening global recession.

    Disney has declined to say how many executives will depart through the buyouts beyond saying it received a "satisfactory response." The company also plans to lay off an undisclosed number of employees in the coming weeks as part of a plan to combine back-office operations at Disney World and Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif.

    Disney has been hit hard by the worst recession in decades. Operating profit at its worldwide parks and resorts division fell by $123 million, or 24 percent, during the three months ended Dec. 27; attendance at Disney World fell 5 percent during the period.

    Hannig has overseen the development of dozens of new restaurants at Disney World over the years. Critics credited him for elevating the resort into a top dining destination in the early 1990s, when he began encouraging executive chefs at Disney restaurants to run their eateries as if they owned them.

    The German-born chef said his fondest projects included developing the California Grill atop Disney's Contemporary Resort and creating the African-inspired Jiko and Boma in Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge.

    He has most recently been developing a third African restaurant, which will feature dishes infused with Indian flavors in the time-share addition Disney is building next to the Animal Kingdom Lodge. The restaurant -- "Sanaa," which is Swahili for "work of art" -- is scheduled to open in mid-April.

    Hannig has spent 21 years with Disney, beginning his tenure at Disneyland Paris. He said the buyouts arrived at an opportune moment.

    He and his wife, Ursula, are building a retreat in the mountains of Panama that will offer guests a combination of yoga and organically grown tropical food. It's an ideal next chapter for Hannig, who earned the nickname "Tofu King" for his devotion to healthy cooking and who is an avid mountain-climber and marathon runner.

    Hannig and his wife celebrated their 33rd wedding anniversary at base camp on Mt. Everest. "It's not what I would call a business. It's more a passion," Hannig said of the retreat.

    Hannig said he expects to return to Central Florida frequently. Disney plans to use him as a consultant on future dining projects.]]>    Walt Disney World Resort Debuts New Online Check-In Servicedbtn@me.comResortsWDW2009-02-26T07:37:44-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-22http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-22Service available to guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Disney Vacation Club resorts open as of February 2009

    LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Feb. 24, 2009) – Walt Disney World Resort launched a new Online Check-In Service today, designed to simplify and streamline guest arrivals. The new service is complimentary and available to guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels and Disney Vacation Club resorts open as of February 2009.

    online_check_in_logo_jpg_64410_orig

    Within 10 days of their arrival dates, guests are able to provide check-in information, advise the resort of their arrival times and request room preferences (although those cannot be guaranteed). Guests can also register the names of all the people in their party and provide a credit card to cover charges at the resort hotel.

    Upon arrival at their resorts, guests visit a special welcome location where their room keys and other registration material are waiting. Disney cast members are also available to provide additional information and answer questions.

    Meeting professionals can also arrange private group check-in at a Disney resort convention center or other locations.

    “Our new Online Check-In Service offers added convenience and time savings for Walt Disney World Resort hotel guests,” said Kevin Myers, vice president of Resort Operations for Walt Disney World Resort. “It’s the latest benefit created as part of our continuous effort to provide a seamless and hassle-free arrival experience for our guests as they begin their Disney vacation.”

    Online Check-In Service is the newest Disney service designed to simplify the travel and arrival process. Guests staying at select Walt Disney World hotels get an extra dose of pixie dust with great perks and services including: Complimentary on-property transportation; Disney’s Magical Express, which offers complimentary airport shuttle and luggage delivery; and Extra Magic Hours, where each day one of the Walt Disney World theme parks opens one hour early or stays open up to three hours later, providing extra time in the parks to experience select attractions.

    For more information about the new Online Check-In Service or to make a resort reservation, call 407/W-DISNEY or your local travel agent or click on disneyworld.com.
    -30-


    ONLINECHECK-IN/11-21-08:cs/rev:2-25-09:cs
    Read more…

    ]]>    Kids Explore Flower Festival Fun at Epcot dbtn@me.comBlog2009-02-24T21:55:45-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-21http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-21
    To welcome families into the festival, a royal topiary court invites guests to celebrate Cinderella’s coronation day as a special “Cinderellabration” at the Epcot entrance. The signature topiary display, showcasing Cinderella’s royal moment, is designed in honor of Disney Parks’ new “What Will You Celebrate?” vacation initiative.

    Throughout the rest of the theme park, families will enjoy the cascades of color at every turn, strolling through floral scenes made famous in Disney animated films, including “The Lion King” and the upcoming “Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure.”

    Little ones can get moving – literally – in a special garden-themed playground featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Pluto and Goofy. The Let’s Get Moving play area encourages kids to climb and explore. And there will be plenty of “pixie power” in a Pixie Hollow-themed play area, with everyone’s favorite fairy, Tinker Bell, featured in a playful garden. For the little pirates of the family, another themed adventure area will feature Peter Pan and Captain Hook.

    Aladdin and Lady and the Tramp will join other cherished characters making topiary appearances throughout Epcot, which is veiled with 30 million blooms of sweeping floral beds and exhibits.

    Other family-friendly exhibits include Minnie’s Magnificent Butterfly Garden – a distinctive garden filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies. And guests can learn how to create their own environmentally safe garden, including information about low-water-use, native plants and recycling, while kids enjoy a playground at the Green Garden exhibit.
    Entertainment is available for the whole family throughout the festival. The Flower Power concert series, which stars pop hit-makers of the 1960s and '70s, will have guests be-bopping and grooving to classic tunes at the America Gardens Theatre every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.


    Some of the other activities sure to keep the “little gardeners” entertained at the 16thannual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival include:

    Pixie Hollow Fairy Garden (adjacent to Mouse Gear in Future World), with special hands-on activities for children, a play structure and colorful topiaries of Tinker Bell and her friends; daily Fairy & Princess Processional at 2 p.m. where kids can come dressed up and show off their costumes; they can also get their face painted with their favorite fairy, flower or insect; plus, meet the director and producer of the upcoming fall release “Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure” March 21 at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

    Pirates Adventure Zone (adjacent to the Germany Pavilion in World Showcase), an interactive play space designed for exploration and adventure greeted by Peter Pan, Captain Hook and Croc topiaries.
    Let’s Get Moving (adjacent to the Imagination! pavilion in Future World), a recreational garden where children can climb and explore, featuring Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Donald and Goofy topiaries demonstrating their favorite outdoor activities. Here, kids can climb aboard EVOS and Weevos Playsystems.
    Green Garden (adjacent to the Morocco pavilion in World Showcase), a unique garden, which includes a playground, where guests can learn how to create an environmentally friendly, low-input garden of their own.
    Minnie’s Magnificent Butterfly Garden (adjacent to Mouse Gear in Future World), where hundreds of butterflies inhabit a screened-in gazebo lush with foliage and color.
    Character Topiary Scavenger Hunt (behind Spaceship Earth in Future World), a family-oriented challenge to locate favorite Disney character topiaries throughout Epcot.
    Earth Station (Test Track Walkway, adjacent to the butterfly garden), where kids can discover fun activities and how to positively impact Earth.
    Most festival activities are included in regular admission to Epcot. For more information and schedules, guests can call 407/W-DISNEY or visit www.disneyworld.com/flower.]]>    Happy Birthday Steve Jobsdbtn@me.comDisney compnay2009-02-24T21:34:20-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-20http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-20
    Steve Jobs was a college dropout when he teamed up with Steve Wozniak in 1976 to sell personal computers assembled in Jobs' garage. That was the beginning of Apple, which revolutionized the computing industry and made Jobs a multimillionaire before he was 30 years old. He was forced out of the company in 1985 and started the NeXT Corporation, but returned to his old company in 1996 when Apple bought NeXT. Jobs soon became Apple's chief executive officer and sparked a resurgence in the company with products like the colorful iMac computer, [Mac OS X, the iPod, and the iPhone]. Jobs was also the CEO of Pixar, the animation company responsible for movies like Toy Story and Monsters, Inc. Pixar was purchased by the Walt Disney Company in 2006 for $7.4 billion in stock; the deal made Jobs the largest individual shareholder of Disney stock.

    Some sources list Los Altos, California as Jobs's place of birth. However, in a 1995 oral history interview with The Smithsonian, Jobs said, "I was born in San Francisco, California, USA, planet Earth, February 24, 1955." Jobs was given up for adoption after birth and raised by his adoptive parents in Silicon Valley... His biological sister is novelist Mona Simpson, author of "Anywhere But Here."

    images]]>    Flower Power Concertsdbtn@me.comEPCOT2009-02-24T21:32:30-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-19http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-19LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, popular for their Grammy Award-nominated single “If You Don’t Know Me By Now,” and other hit makers will strike nostalgic notes during Flower Power concerts each weekend of the 16th annual Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, presented by Disneynature, at Walt Disney World Resort.

    The spring shower of hit songs from the 1960s and '70s begins March 20-22 with opening-weekend performances by Davy Jones, known for a string of pop singles including “Daydream Believer,” and continues each Friday, Saturday and Sunday through May 31. Some of the other returning acts include Paul Revere & The Raiders, The Ventures, Jose Feliciano and Chubby Checker & The Wildcats.

    Flower Power concerts take place at the America Gardens Theatre at 5:15, 6:30 and
    7:45 p.m. each Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the festival. Concerts are included with regular Epcot admission.

    Here’s the lineup (entertainment and show times subject to change without notice):

    March 20-22 – Davy Jones “Daydream Believer”
    March 27-March 29 – Paul Revere & The Raiders “Good Thing”
    April 3-April 5 – The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie “Happy Together”
    April 10-April 12 – Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone “I’m Henry the VIII, I Am”
    April 17-April 19 – The Ventures “Hawaii Five-O”
    April 24-April 26 – Harold Melvin's Blue Notes (NEW) "If You Don't Know Me By Now"
    May 1-May 3 – Chubby Checker & The Wildcats “The Twist”
    May 8-May 10 – Ricky Nelson Remembered featuring The Nelsons
    “(Can’t Live Without Your) Love and Affection
    May 15-May 17 – Jose Feliciano “Light My Fire”
    May 22-May 24 – The 5th Dimension “Up, Up and Away”
    May 29-May 31 – Tony Orlando “Tie a Yellow Ribbon”

    More information can be found here.]]>    Disney to Reorganize U.S. Theme Parks, Eliminate Jobs dbtn@me.comDisney compnay2009-02-23T20:15:39-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-18http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-18The Walt Disney Co., the world’s biggest theme-park operator, is reorganizing its U.S. resort operation and cutting jobs to streamline decision-making and reduce costs.
    The action consolidates oversight of parks in Southern California and Florida, Burbank, California-based Disney said today in an e-mailed statement. Al Weiss, president of worldwide operations, will lead the reorganization.
    The moves were brought on by economic conditions, Disney Parks and Resorts chairman Jay Rasulo said in a statement. The company offered voluntary buyouts to about 600 parks-unit executives last month and extended discounts through Aug. 15 to lure visitors.
    “We expect Disney to continue cutting costs so long as U.S. economic weakness persists,” Laura Martin, an analyst at Soleil Securities Corp. in Los Angeles, said in an interview.
    Disney may postpone new attractions to lower spending further, said Martin, who rates the company “hold” and doesn’t own the shares. She expects the company to come up with additional promotions to bring visitors to its parks.
    Disney fell 10 cents to $17.53 in extended trading. The shares lost 21 cents to $17.63 at 4:15 p.m. in New York Stock Exchange composite trading.
    The company’s ABC network cut 200 jobs and eliminated 200 that hadn’t been filled. ABC’s TV studio and programming divisions are merging. ESPN, Disney’s cable sports channel, said it won’t fill 200 vacant positions, froze hiring through September 2010 and halted executive pay raises.
    The company is making “significant” cost cuts at every division and will continue to make reductions, Chief Executive Officer Robert Iger said on a Feb. 3 conference call. The cuts go beyond responding to the economic downturn, he said.
    “The worsening recession of 2009 gives companies the opportunity to reevaluate every business,” Martin said.
    Theme-Park Results
    Disney this month reported a 32 percent drop in fiscal first-quarter profit and said it would cut more jobs in response to the deepening U.S. recession.
    Theme-park profit in the period declined 24 percent to $382 million on a 3.9 percent drop in revenue. Disney is offering three nights free and a $200 credit for food and merchandise with a four-night reservation in Florida and Southern California.
    “We expect Disney to use creative marketing and promotions to drive park attendance, but at lower revenue per person,” Martin said.    ]]>    2009 Edition of Disney Dollars Celebrate Celebrating dbtn@me.comMoneyWDW2009-02-22T19:54:24-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-17http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-172009 Edition of Disney Dollars Celebrate Celebrating

    LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Collectors of Disney Dollars, the colorful “official currency” of Walt Disney World Resort, have cause for celebration: The 2009 series has been issued.  And in concert with Disney Parks’ “What Will You Celebrate?” in 2009, the theme of the $1, $5 and $10 denomination bills calls attention to celebrating.
    Mickey Mouse and Pluto with a cake are on the front of the $1 bill, while Daisy Duck and Minnie Mouse grace the $5.  On the $10, Goofy is joined by Donald Duck and Mickey as he blows out the candles on a cake.
    Disney Dollars, which debuted in 1987, are individually numbered – making each a unique keepsake or gift. The bills also can be used for purchases throughout Walt Disney World Resort.  Disney Dollars can be purchased at theme park Guest Relations, resort front desks and Downtown Disney Marketplace at Guest Relations, and at the information desk at the World of Disney merchandise shop.

    ]]>    Surf's Up March 22 at Walt Disney World Resort As Typhoon Lagoon Reopensdbtn@me.comWDWTyphoon lagoon2009-02-22T19:52:55-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-16http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-16LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Spring break is here and surf’s up at Walt Disney World Resort beginning March 22 when Typhoon Lagoon water park reopens following refurbishment.  A day later,
    would-be surfers will learn to ride the wave during the season’s first Cocoa Beach Surf School session.
                Guests can enjoy both “bobbing” and surfing-size waves during regular Typhoon Lagoon operating hours, but activity is limited to body surfing.  However, during reservation-only sessions before and after park hours, “surf’s up” and the boards are in the water:
    Cocoa Beach Surf School – With mentoring from professional surf instructors, participants learn the basics during the 2½-hour early-morning class on select mornings.  Instruction begins on land, then moves into the water on boards provided by the surf school.  Class enrollment is by reservation and size is limited to 12 to 14 participants.  For more information and reservations, guests can call 407/WDW-PLAY.
    Private Surf Events – Accomplished surfers can hold events with custom surfing waves either on mornings when the surf school isn’t in session or after normal operating hours.  Information and reservations are available by calling 407/WDW-SURF.
                While the 2.75-million-gallon wave pool is a “centerpiece” of Typhoon Lagoon, the park features attractions for the whole family – from fast waterslides to a children’s area with pint-sized raft rides.  Guests can snorkel Shark Reef – with real sharks – and test three different rollercoaster-like water slides on Crush ‘n’ Gusher … or grab an inner tube for a gentle journey along Castaway Creek, a meandering stream, 2,000 feet long, that passes through cool mists and grottoes, lush rainforests and invigorating waterfalls.
                More information about Typhoon Lagoon is available at     DisneyWorld.com. On the home page under the “Discover” tab, click on Theme Parks & Water Parks.]]>    Top 3 things to do this spring at WDWdbtn@me.comWDW2009-02-22T19:51:36-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-15http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-15The American Idol Experience’ Tops List of 3 New Must-Dos
    For Spring Guests at Walt Disney World Resort

                LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Disney guests who want to be literally in the middle of the theme park action are in for a treat – or three – at Walt Disney World Resort this spring.  Imagine performing a vocal onstage in front of a thousand people.  Or being part of an audience that evaluates and votes on vocal performances.  Or playing the role of a world adventurer crusading to thwart the bad guys.  Or a party-goer who “gets down” and dances in the street.
                Three new experiences will allow spring vacationers to participate in all those activities following debuts in late January and February of ‘The American Idol Experience’ at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure at Epcot and “Move It, Shake It, Celebrate It!” Street Party at Magic Kingdom.  Here’s a snapshot of each experience:
                     “The American Idol Experience” – Starry-eyed Disney guests get a taste of the pop culture phenomenon “American Idol” – up close and personal by experiencing the challenge of auditioning and the rush of performing onstage in competition or judging the performances in a live interactive setting modeled after the “American Idol” set.  There are several show times daily.  Guests advancing through the screening process to the nightly final competition can earn a guaranteed reservation for a regional audition for the “American Idol” TV show by topping the audience voting.
    Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure – In an experience inspired by Disney Channel’s Emmy Award-winning “Kim Possible” animated series, guests become secret agents to save the world from comical villains and their mad inventions in this interactive adventure packed with mystery and excitement.  Guests team up with members of Team Possible in this high-tech adventure in Epcot’s Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Japan, France and United Kingdom pavilions.  Each pavilion features a different mission and villain from the TV series.
    “Move It, Shake It, Celebrate It!” Street Party – It’s party time when a cast of Disney characters, stilt walkers and other performers processes down Main Street, U.S.A. toward Cinderella Castle to high-energy tunes such as “Breakout” and “I Like To Move It.”  Floats decked out as gift-wrapped packages are part of the procession, and near the castle, Mad Hatter, Genie, Lumiere and Sebastian – the life and light of the party – pop out of four huge boxes.  They join about a dozen other Disney characters headed by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse to mix and mingle and dance in the street with Magic Kingdom guests during a 12- to 15-minute party that takes place three times daily.
    While in Magic Kingdom, guests may want to check out the “refreshed” 3 o’clock parade.      New music, new costumes and some new float décor are now part of the parade.  The procession also makes more stops – during which party dancers perform to get guests into a celebratory spirit.  And to go with the changes, the parade has a new name: “Celebrate A Dream Come True.”  It and the street party are part of Disney Parks’ program “What Will You Celebrate?” which began in January.

    ]]>    Bay Lake Towerdbtn@me.comMagic Kingdom2009-02-10T20:25:50-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-14http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-14Bay Lake Tower has a distinctively modern design that is balanced by a warm and inviting décor, with the feel of an urban boutique hotel.
    Choose from a variety of flexible family friendly Vacation Homes, many offering fantastic views of Magic Kingdom® Park or beautiful Bay Lake. Become a Disney Vacation Club Member today by purchasing a real estate interest in Bay Lake Tower. And build a lifetime of vacation memories with your family at Disney Vacation Club's newest resort.

    Studio
    Full bathroom
    Sleeps up to four
    Queen-size bed, plus full-size sofa bed
    Flat-panel TV and DVD player
    Wet bar, small refrigerator, microwave and coffeemaker
    Private balcony or porch
    studio7

    One-Bedroom Vacation Home
    Two full bathrooms
    Sleeps up to five
    Master bedroom suite with king-size bed, and connecting bathroom with whirlpool tub
    Queen-size sofa bed and sleeper chair in living room
    Flat-panel TV and DVD player in living room, and flat-panel TV in master bedroom
    Full kitchen includes: coffeemaker, dinnerware, glassware, flatware, pots and pans, microwave, toaster, stove, refrigerator, dishwasher and more
    Laundry area contains stacked washer and dryer
    Private balcony or porch

    suite_model21

    Dedicated Two-Bedroom Vacation Home
    Three full bathrooms
    Sleeps up to nine
    Master bedroom suite with king-size bed and connecting bathroom with whirlpool tub
    Second bedroom with separate bathroom and two queen-size beds
    Queen-size sofa bed and sleeper chair in living room
    Flat-panel TV and DVD player in living room, and flat-panel TV in master bedroom and the second bedroom
    Full kitchen includes: coffeemaker, dinnerware, glassware, flatware, pots and pans, microwave, toaster, stove, refrigerator, dishwasher and more
    Laundry area contains stacked washer and dryer
    Private balcony or porch
    Two-Bedroom Lockoff Vacation Home
    Three full bathrooms: one is a Master bathroom with whirlpool tub
    Defined as a Studio plus One-Bedroom
    Sleeps up to nine
    Master bedroom suite with king-size bed
    Second bedroom with one queen-size bed plus one full-size sofa bed
    Queen-size sofa bed in living room
    Flat-panel TV and DVD player in living room, and flat-panel TV in master bedroom and the second bedroom
    Full kitchen includes: coffeemaker, dinnerware, glassware, flatware, pots and pans, microwave, toaster, stove, refrigerator, dishwasher and more
    Laundry area contains stacked washer and dryer
    Private balcony or porch
    2-Story Grand Villa Vacation Home
    Four full bathrooms: one is a Master bathroom with whirlpool tub
    Sleeps up to 12
    Master bedroom suite with king-size bed
    Two additional bedrooms, each with two queen-size beds
    Queen-size sofa bed in living room
    Full-size sofa bed in upstairs sitting area
    Flat-panel TV and DVD player in living room, and flat-panel TV in master bedroom and both additional bedrooms
    Full kitchen includes: coffeemaker, dinnerware, glassware, flatware, pots and pans, microwave, toaster, stove, refrigerator, dishwasher and more
    Dining room with dining table and chairs
    Laundry area contains stacked washer and dryer
    Private balcony
    *Floor plans and furnishings are subject to change. Actual room size may vary slightly depending on room location.
    Vacation Home amenities*:

    Bedroom(s):
    Master bedroom:
    One king-size bed with linens
    Second and third bedrooms:
    Two queen-size beds with linens, or
    One queen-size bed and one full-size sleeper sofa with linens
    Nightstands
    Pak-n-Play® crib
    Lamps
    Hutch
    Chair
    Clock radio
    Cable television
    *Amenities may vary by resort and are subject to change without notice.

    DSC_0823

    Unparalleled Views
    Bay Lake Tower’s crescent-shaped tower will boast some of the most dramatic Walt Disney World views available, offering open sightlines to an amenity-filled courtyard, the picturesque lakefront or one of the most beloved theme parks on earth. The view will be equally appealing on the other side of the window, with rich woods and warm fabrics complementing interior spaces and creating a welcoming, family friendly environment.

    Planned Rooftop Lounge and Fireworks Viewing Area
    The only view better than the one families will enjoy from their rooms may be the one available* from the exclusive rooftop deck, offering sweeping views of the resort and a dramatic look at Magic Kingdom Park’s fireworks by night. Plus, as an homage to the original, Bay Lake Tower’s rooftop lounge, Top of the World Lounge, was actually inspired by Disney’s Contemporary Resort’s former restaurant of the same name.
    ]]>    NEW Photosdbtn@me.comBlog2009-02-08T20:47:06-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-13http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-13NEW Photos in the photo gallery. I will posting some more as soon as I fix a storage issue. The new photo galleries are:

    • Main Street
    • Cinderella Castle
    • Tomorrowland
    • Adventureland
    • Frontierland
    • The Hub

    Check back soon to see more !!!
    ]]>    Wilderness Lodge Overviewdbtn@me.comWilderness LodgeMagic KingdomResorts2009-02-05T19:57:39-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-12http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/feb-2009#unique-entry-id-12The wilderness lodge is one of the deluxe resorts near the Magic Kingdom. It is not a Monorail a resort but you can use a boat or bus to get to many places on property from this resort. I personally love this resort, the lobby is large but very warm and welcoming. You can spend hours just sitting near the fireplace reading a book or listening to music in a rocking chair. The water fall water starts from a little geyser in the lobby, so you sit in front of this stream of water in the lobby with a cocktail and just relax. The music in the lobby adds to the theme of the resort. There are 2 pools to enjoy, one is a family pool and the other is a quiet pool. There is plenty of recreation in the area too.

    Below is some the Disney Official information about the Wilderness resort

    Disney's Wilderness Lodge is a full-service Disney Deluxe Resort hotel with 727 Guest rooms. Inspired by the Great American Northwest National Park lodges from the turn of the 20th century, this architecturally grand Resort honors American craftsmanship and artistry, and celebrates the majesty of the unspoiled wilderness.

    Features of Disney's Wilderness Lodge include:
    • a stunning 7-story lobby built from 85 loads of Lodgepole Pine
    • an 82-foot tall lobby fireplace
    • a bubbling spring that flows into a creek, tumbles over a sparkling waterfall and empties into the featured swimming pool
    • Fire Rock Geyser, fashioned after Yellowstone National Park's Old Faithful, that erupts on the hour with a plume of water jetting 120 feet into the air
    • 727 Guest rooms with themes of wildlife, nature and Native American designs
    • Old Faithful Club, located on the 7th floor, available to Guests of Concierge category rooms
    • Honeymoon Suites with marble whirlpool tubs

    Dining Options

    Dining at Disney's Wilderness Lodge includes 3 restaurants, one lounge and a poolside snack bar that cover the range from fine dining to quick-service snacks for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Meals at Disney's Wilderness Lodge range from $12 to $60 per person. Price range is based on average Guest check, not including alcohol, tax and tip.

    Amenities and Services

    Amenities and Services at Disney's Wilderness Lodge, a Disney Deluxe Resort hotel, feature cable TV, room service, a health club and spa, laundry facilities and services, and babysitting services. Internet access is available for an additional fee.

    Recreation

    Recreation at Disney's Wilderness Lodge centers around the great outdoors and include pools, playgrounds, watercraft rentals, a health club and spa, and horse-drawn carriage rides.

    Room Types and Pricing

    Room rates at Disney's Wilderness Lodge start at $240 per night, plus tax in a standard room most nights during Value Season. Additional per adult charges apply for more than 2 adults per room. Minimum length of stay requirements may apply.

    Room types at Disney's Wilderness Lodge offer standard views, wood views and courtyard views; some rooms provide the chance to watch Fire Rock Geyser erupt from the room's private balcony.

    Suites are available at the Old Faithful Club category, with Concierge Service. Club Level Rooms include access to Club category lounge, complimentary Health Club access, and additional services.

    Transportation

    Transportation at Disney's Wilderness Lodge is complimentary for Resort hotel Guests. Magic Kingdom Theme Park can be reached from Disney's Wilderness Lodge by boat or bus. Other destinations throughout Walt Disney World Resort, including Disney Theme Parks and Disney Water Parks, are also accessable from Disney's Wilderness Lodge by complimentary bus and boat transportation.

    Benefits

    Benefits of staying at Disney's Wilderness Lodge include:

    Additional time, or Extra Magic Hours, at select Walt Disney World Theme Parks
    Complimentary transportation between Disney's Wilderness Lodge and Orlando International Airport with Disney's Magical Express service
    Complimentary transportation between Disney's Wilderness Lodge and destinations throughout Walt Disney World Resort, including Disney Theme Parks and Disney Water Parks
    Key to the World Card, a combination of hotel key, Theme Park ticket and shopping charge card
    Package delivery from select Disney shops to Disney's Wilderness Lodge
    Signature Disney service from Disney Cast Members, available to assist you 24 hours a day
    Walt Disney World Accommodations

    Disney's Wilderness Lodge is one of 8 Disney Deluxe Resort hotels—and one of more than 20 hotels and accommodations at Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Florida.

    Link to Disney site
    http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/wilderness-lodge-resort/
    ]]>    Artist Pointdbtn@me.comResortsDiningWilderness Lodge2009-01-29T21:04:34-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-11http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-11On thursday Night I had Dinner at Artist Point. This is consider a signature restaurant for Disney. Which means excellent food and a little on the pricey side. This is a not a cheap dinner.

    Artist Point serves specialties from the Pacific Northwest where the focus is on seafood, sirloins and game. Though menu options change seasonally, the kitchen's signature dish is a cedar plank-roasted salmon. For dessert, the chef's special creation is an Artist Point cobbler: seasonal berries and house-made black raspberry ice cream.

    I would add this as a must dine restaurant. I have eaten here several times and this restaurant never disappoints.    ]]>    Whispering Canyon Cafédbtn@me.comResortsDiningWilderness Lodge2009-01-29T20:52:52-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-10http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-10On Wednesday I had dinner at the Whispering Canyon Café. This is NOT a quiet restaurant to have a romantic dinner. This is a family friendly restaurant that really caters to families. They keep the kids entertained. The food can be family style or a la carte. If you have never eaten here I have one tip for you, ask for the ketchup and then stnad back and let the fun begin. I have had the meatloaf here and it is always excellent. There is lots of napkin waving, singing, riding ponies and just good old fashion family fun. it is a must restaurant on my list. ]]>Tusker Housedbtn@me.comDiningAnimal Kingdom2009-01-29T20:35:49-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-9http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-9I had Lunch on Wednesday at the Tusker House located deep in the heart of Africa in the village of Harambe. The buffet seemed to offer a little more choice then the other buffets I have had this trip. The atmosphere is definitely African. As for the food there are some bold African flavors as well as some non African flavors. Here is a list of some the foods served:

    • Curried rice salad
    • Fresh fruit
    • Green bean and onion salad
    • Hummus and baba ghanoush
    • Jollaf rice
    • Marrakech couscous
    • Pearl couscous with sweet basil essence
    • Sliced cold cuts
    • Spiced tandoori tofu
    • Spicy South African preserves
    • Tabbouleh
    • Traditional salads
    • Tunisian couscous salad
    • Vegetable samosas
    ]]>    Chef Mickey'sdbtn@me.comResortsRestaurants2009-01-27T22:00:05-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-8http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-8I had Breakfast this morning at Chef Mickey's at the Contemporary resort I have start with it was great to have a character meal with the FAB 5 !!!! I made a ADR for this dining as well and this was the longest I had to wait for a table so far. I would estimate it was about 10 to 12 minutes. The food was very good for a buffet. The characters that were Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy and Donald. Each character comes to your table and will take pictures and sign autographs and even have some fun with family members. For me this is a must do restaurant for anyone, or any family. ]]>Plaza Restaurantdbtn@me.comMagic KingdomDining2009-01-27T21:54:03-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-7http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-7I had dinner at the Plaza restaurant. I close this for 2 reasons, one it was on Main Street and second i would be able to quickly exit and get have a good location for Spectromagic parade. I made a ADR and was seated quickly after checking in. This is a smaller cozy restaurant. The menu is soups, sandwiches, and burgers. They also serve ice cream. If you can sit by the window you can have a great view of Cinderella Castle. I would recommend this to anyone the food was good and the atmosphere is great. ]]>Crystal Palacedbtn@me.comMagic KingdomDining2009-01-27T21:45:38-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-6http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-6On Monday I had lunch at the Crystal palace. I made a ADR (advance Dining Reservation and was seated with in minutes of checking in. The restaurant was surprisingly full. The restaurant location and decor is beautiful it is right off of Main Street and easy to get to. This restaurant is a buffet with Winnie the Pooh characters. I am not a Pooh fan so that was not the attraction. The food was good for a buffet but not great if you compare this to signature dining. Also having to wait in a slow moving line may not be for everyone. It is hard for families to move though the buffet line quickly or any reasonable pace. I would recommend this for Pooh fans and buffet lovers.]]>Disney Magical Express Experiencedbtn@me.comMagical Express2009-01-25T21:13:01-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-5http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-5My trip started in State College, PA with a short 26 min flight to Philly, PA. Philly to Orlando was painless. I like the idea of the Magical express but I still think there may be some bugs to removed from the process. The line to check into was at least 20 minutes long. (Side note-- I think Disney is hurry up and wait). The I was told to go stand in line 8, I must have just missed my bus because every other line went , and then finally line 8. So I would say the 2 lines totaled about 1 hour of time, plus the 30 minute bus ride. I think I could have rented a car and been there before the bus got to the resort, or I could have taken a private car and been there in less time.

    I was told I could check in online but I did not see where I can do this. so I used the old wait in line at the lodge method of check in. I did do a smart thin and sit in the first seat so I was first off the bus and first at the front desk. My room was ready but the luggage was still not there, no big deal at least I did not have to lug it around..

    In summary, I think they need to find a way to speed things up just a little. I understand the value of a full bus and making 3 resort stops, just do it faster.    ]]>    Vintage Disney Memborliadbtn@me.comMagic Kingdom2009-01-24T14:22:56-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-4http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-4While at my parents house recently, my mother found some vintage WDW park pass circa 1986. These were paper tickets, yes i said paper. They were green 3 day passes. At this time only the Magic Kingdom and Epoct were open. They were called a "3-day Worldpassport" at the bottom of the ticket were 3 slots were the main gate cast members would stamp the date of your visit. My three dates stamps are July 10, 1986, July 11, 1986 and March 7, 1988. Which leads me to believe they did not expire. On the pass it says it must be used for the same person, but how on earth could they tell that? They are numbered in sequence 501482, 510483, 501484.

    The price is listed at the top on the back of the ticket and is ONLY $61.00 a ticket!
    Some of the the information on the back is interesting it says "This Worldpassort allows one guest use of the following for 3 days"

    • Transportation between the Magic Kingdom, the Transportation and ticket center and Epcot Center
    • Magic Kingdom admission and use of attractions within the Magic Kingdom
    • Epcot Center admission and use of attractions within Epcot center
    • Round trip bus transportation from the transportation and Ticket center to the Walt Disney World village at Lake Buena Vista
    It continues with the following statements in BOLD print, they must be important.

    If you are leaving the Magic Kingdom or Epcot Center and plan to return to or visit either on the same day. Please have your hand stamped as you exit and present this Worldpassport upon re-entry.

    This Worldpassport will be accepted during the WALT DISNEY WORLD Magic Kingdom or Epcot center regular operating hours.

    Walt Disney World Co. collects a transportation charge for this Worldpassport as a agent for WED transportation systems, Inc.


    It is interesting that they need to call out the fact that a charge is being collected and for transportation. I am assuming this was the Monorail system.

    I will try to scan these tickets in so you can see them and enjoy them.



    ]]>    The Day Before my tripdbtn@me.comTrip report2009-01-24T14:15:53-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-3http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-3Okay so this is the day before I take off to WDW. I am running done my electronic checklist.
    Camera
    Portable Tripod
    batteries
    laptop
    SD cards
    Flash
    iPhone
    iPod

    Checking the weather to see what type of clothing I need to bring. It looks like it will be highs of the 70'a and a low in the 50's all week. I know it gets chilly in the parks at night too.

    I selected my seats and printed my boarding pass. I have a taxi picking me up in the morning, I have the first flight out of town so it should be light.

    My reviewed my itinerary and checked it over with the rehab list.

    I think i'm ready to go, I just need to pack later tonight and set the alarm.

    See you all in WDW.


    ]]>    Disney Itinerarydbtn@me.comWDW2009-01-22T19:56:54-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-2http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-2Disney Itinerary Jan 25, 2009 to Feb 1, 2009

    Sunday 1/25 - Arrive
    Relax and have dinner at Raglan Road

    Monday 1/26
    Mickey's Magical Milestone Tour
    Park - Magic Kingdom
    Lunch- Crystal Palace
    Dinner- Plaza restaurant

    Tuesday 1/27
    Park - None
    Breakfast - Chef Mickey
    Lunch - Unknown
    Dinner - The Wave
    DVC Tour

    Wednesday 1/28
    Park - Animal Kingdom
    Breakfast -
    Lunch - Tusker House
    Dinner - Yak and Yeti

    Thursday -
    Park - Downtown disney Shopping
    Breakfast
    Lunch - Capt Jack's
    Dinner- Artist Point

    Friday 1/30
    Park - EPCOT
    Breakfast -
    Lunch - Coral reef
    Dinner - Mexico

    Saturday 1/31
    Park - Holywood Studio
    Breakfast
    Lunch - 50's prime time
    Dinner - Brown derby

    Sunday 2/1
    Depart
    Breakfast
    Lunch - whispering Canyon
    Dinner - airport]]>    Comments are comingdbtn@me.comBlog2009-01-22T19:53:10-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-1http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-1I am working on adding comments to the blog so that there is some interaction among all the readers. I dont think I want this to be a one way blog. I may also use this blog to post Disney news.

    Just 2 more days and I will be in WDW soaking in the fun. I hope to blog each night assuming I am not exhausted and too tired.

    Stay tuned for more blogging!

    Tony]]>    Welcome to the Blogdbtn@me.comBlog2009-01-18T17:39:19-05:00http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-0http://www.disneybythenumbers.com/blog/files/jan-2009#unique-entry-id-0Welcome to the Disney By The Numbers Blog ....

    I will use this on my upcoming trip to add notes as my trip progress. There will be ride reviews and restaurant reviews.

    After the trip I will add interesting facts so you can see them here before they become part of the website.

    So on with the show !!!!



    ]]>