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Saturday January 26, 2008 |
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Widow
sues Disney Cruise Line in man's death Nudity may cost ABC $1.4 million Disney Channel Debuts First Broadband Portal in Asia Pacific Chickens are not Disney characters |
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Widow sues
Disney Cruise Line in man's death Orlando Sentinel - A widow from New York has sued Disney Cruse Line in federal court, blaming the company for her husband's death from injuries he suffered during a Mediterranean cruise last summer. Marilyn Piazza alleges that her husband, Santo L. Piazza, died because a poorly designed threshold in a bathroom doorway caused him to fall; because the ship's medical staff initially misdiagnosed his injuries; and because efforts to evacuate him to a hospital for emergency medical treatment were slow, and poorly planned and executed. Santo Piazza died Aug. 14 at age 78. Marilyn Piazza filed the lawsuit Thursday on behalf of her husband's estate in U.S. District Court in Orlando. Her complaint identifies the cruise line's corporate entity, Magical Cruise Co. Ltd., and Disney Cruise Vacations as defendants. She alleges that they were responsible for Santo Piazza's death, and her suit seeks more than $75,000. Her complaint states that her husband was injured at the beginning of an 11-day cruise out of Barcelona, Spain, aboard the Disney Magic. Marilyn and Santa Piazza were taking the cruise with their daughter and her family. The suit says that Santo Piazza tripped on the threshold as he stepped into his cabin's bathroom. He fell, and his right side struck the bathtub, causing "catastrophic internal injuries." He immediately went to the shipboard health-services department, where he was given a Tylenol. Later that day, he returned to the health-services department after he vomited and experienced shortness of breath and severe pain. During his second evaluation, the ship's doctor diagnosed him with fractured ribs and a punctured lung, and said Santo Piazza required immediate evacuation and hospitalization. The suit alleges that the Piazzas waited five hours before the Disney Magic altered its course toward Cagliari, Sardinia. Then ship personnel put the injured man in an inflatable raft and transported him through eight miles of choppy waves to the shore, "crashing and smashing Mr. Piazza up and down constantly." Santo Piazza died from his injuries 17 days later, according to the complaint. A Disney Cruise Line spokeswoman would not comment. |
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Nudity may cost ABC
$1.4 million LA Times - The Federal Communications Commission said Friday that it planned to fine Walt Disney Co.'s ABC network $1.4 million for airing an episode of "NYPD Blue" in 2003 that showed a woman's nude buttocks. The company said it opposed the fine and planned to appeal. The FCC said it was seeking $27,500 for each of 52 stations in the Central and Mountain time zones that aired the scene in the 9 to 10 p.m. time slot in violation of federal restrictions against broadcasting "obscene material" between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. The agency has waged a battle against broadcast indecency under Chairman Kevin J. Martin. In October 2006, Congress authorized a tenfold increase in such fines. Broadcasters' use of public airwaves subjects them to more regulation than cable channels. The FCC said it received "numerous complaints" about the scene, in which a young boy walks in on a nude woman about to take a shower. Stations in the Eastern and Pacific zones won't be fined because they aired the episode in the 10 to 11 p.m. slot, local time. ABC said in a statement that it had broadcast the episode and others from the police drama, which ran from 1993 to 2005, with appropriate parental warnings and with V-chip-enabled program ratings when they were available. "ABC feels strongly that the FCC's finding is inconsistent with prior precedent from the commission, the indecency statute and the 1st Amendment," network spokeswoman Julie Hoover said. "The law is simple," FCC Commissioner Deborah Taylor Tate said. "If a broadcaster makes the decision to show indecent programming, it must air between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. This is neither difficult to understand nor burdensome to implement." |
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Disney Channel Debuts First Broadband Portal in Asia Pacific World Screen News - Disney Channel has launched its first broadband service in the Asia-Pacific region, Disney Channel@Play in Taiwan, featuring streamed episodes of popular animated and live-action series. The rollout of Disney Channel@Play in Taiwan also marks the network’s third branded broadband service in the world. The new service offers Taiwanese viewers full-length, Mandarin-dubbed, Chinese-subtitled episodes of Disney Channel’s animated and live-action series through an online broadband player available at www.disney.com.tw/DisneyChannel/video/. Viewers can watch a selection of streamed episodes of hit Disney Channel original series like Hannah Montana, The Suite Life of Zack and Cody, That’s So Raven, Kim Possible and Emperor’s New School. Playhouse Disney preschool series such as Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Little Einsteins and Handy Manny will also be available on the service. The site will be refreshed weekly. Visitors to the service can also choose their favorite shows and create their own favorite program list. Users also have the option of watching the shows in Mandarin or English and picking the screen size they prefer to view the shows. The “What’s New” function also allows users easy access to the latest shows on the site. Disney Channel is also producing original content exclusive to Disney Channel@Play. In February, to usher in the Year of the Mouse, a specially-produced music video of the song “Little VIP” performed by Taiwanese boy band Fahrenheit will be streamed on the service. Dai Hua, the VP and managing director of Walt Disney Television International (Greater China region), commented: “Taiwan’s Disney Channel@Play broadband service complements Disney Channel on TV by providing new viewing opportunities for kids and families. This development extends the kids’ Disney Channel experience and gives us the chance to offer them Disney Channel content whenever and however they wish to access it.” Billy Huang, the VP and managing director of Walt Disney Television International (Taiwan, R.O.C.): “Taiwan was the first market outside of the U.S. to launch Disney Channel in 1995 and we are pleased to continue that ground-breaking tradition with the launch of Disney Channel’s first broadband service in the Asia Pacific with Disney Channel@Play. Kids in Taiwan can now view their favorite Disney Channel shows in high broadband quality in the digital media space.” |
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Chickens are not Disney characters A recent news story about a monastery said the monks chickened out on their poultry business and are looking for another source of support because animal rights activists accused them of cruelty to the chickens. The story is an interesting glimpse into the generation that grew up watching Mickey and Minnie Mouse cavort on television. Chickens never had such great recognition, for good reasons, in Disney's hallmark personification of animals. The only positive story about chickens I can recall is "The Little Red Hen." I can tell you about chickens. They are not sociable, although they do have at least one human characteristic - if one looks different or is slightly lame, its peers peck it to death. If you are chief egg gatherer, you had better know which ones are friendly and which are not. A setting hen (no, it is not sitting) is not to be tampered with if you don't want the bird scratching, flying and squawking into your face. It is no accident that a mean-spirited older woman used to be referred to as "that old hen." Why are girls called chicks? Good question. Maybe it's the cute, fuzzy-feathered, innocent look of a recently-hatched chicken. We had pigs, cows, turkeys and chickens on our little farm. But we didn't get too attached, recognizing that one day these critters would be on our dinner plate. Town kids had swimming pools. We had cattle tanks out by the windmill. When the cows came in from the pasture, I would sit on the fence rail beside the tank and rub their faces while they drank. The milk cows had names. That was a pretty good sign they would not be hauled off for slaughter. But the chickens? No personality. No names. The birds had the run of the place. They roosted at night in the chicken house, which is where I had to go at dusk to stealthily slip my hand under the chickens and retrieve the eggs from the cozy nest. I never had an urge to befriend them. The feeling was mutual. You also had to watch where you stepped at all times. I wonder what those PETA people would have thought if they could have seen my mother (and many other farm wives) wring a chicken's neck. I didn't like to watch, nor did she particularly like to do it. Worse, was plucking the feathers. But my favorite meal was fried chicken. No one was more happy than the farm wife when we were able to purchase our chickens ready to cook. That those chickens might have lived a less happy life before making an appearance on our table somehow never occurred to us. Our greatest concern was that we no longer had a wish bone to fight over because of the way commercially prepared chickens are cut. Not knowing the details, I really cannot defend or criticize the monks. Keeping chickens in a coop and feeding them may not make the birds as unhappy as members of PETA seem to think. I think they take their animal personalization, but what can you expect from the Disney World crowd where the animals dance and sing all day long? According to the story, the monks were following industry guidelines for their poultry operation, but caved to the bad publicity from PETA, which is rather like Chicken Little crying the sky is falling. Considering the source of the objections, I think the monks might have over-reacted. |
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Friday January 25, 2008 |
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Celebs
in Latest Leibovitz Disney Photo Spread "Toy Story" films headed back to theaters in 3-D When You Wish Upon a Death Star: Behind the Scenes at the Jedi Training Academy Ridgeview Charter awarded $5K for Disney production Characters in HCMC for one month festival Winslow teen to star in Disney TV movie "America's Got Talent" auditions held at Disney resort 'Achy Breaky' daughter brings her sparkle to the Sunshine State |
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Celebs
in Latest Leibovitz Disney Photo Spread Disney News - From Never Land to flying carpets to the forested domain of an Indian princess, stars travel to their very own Fantasylands in a new round of celebrity images from famed photographer Annie Leibovitz.
The latest installment of Leibovitz photography spotlights more celebrities living out their fantasies by starring in Disney dream scenes:
For Lopez, the Leibovitz shoot
was both transformational and inspirational: “It’s
unbelievable,” she said, “a modern princess and the guy with the
flying carpet…and the idea of maybe in the future my children
seeing me and Marc as Jasmine and Aladdin…I think that would be
pretty cool.” Added Goldberg: “I think those genie-like qualities worked best for me. For me to come out of a bottle and give somebody three wishes seems like a pretty good bargain.”
“Coming onto this whole set, it feels like you are living the whole Peter Pan story,” said Bündchen. “When I think of all the Disney stories, it actually is my favorite. It isn’t just like a princess finding her prince; Peter was more about finding a true adventure and a different thing, you know?”
Great stars and rich scenes enabled Leibovitz to again work magic with her lens. “We were going deeper and deeper into fantasy with these new pictures,” Leibovitz explained. “Digital tools make it possible to play with the elements of the photographs to a degree that is amazing. And a lot of fun.” Special inserts with the images will appear in select Condé Nast publications in March. Since January 2007, Leibovitz has featured Beyoncé, David Beckham, Scarlett Johansson, Rachel Weisz, Roger Federer, Julie Andrews and Abigail Breslin in scenes playing out their Disney fantasies. |
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"Toy
Story" films headed back to theaters in 3-D Reuters - Buzz and Woody are about to go 3-D. The Walt Disney Studios plans to debut digital 3-D versions of Disney-Pixar's "Toy Story" and "Toy Story 2." "Toy Story" is slated to open October 2, 2009, followed by "Toy Story 2" on February 12, 2010. Both films would be released in advance of Disney-Pixar's "Toy Story 3," which is being produced as a 3-D motion picture and is slated to open June 18, 2010. Veteran Pixar filmmaker Lee Unkrich (co-director of "Toy Story 2") is directing the third installment. John Lasseter -- director of the first two "Toy Story" films and chief creative officer for Disney and Pixar Animation Studios -- will oversee the creative side of the 3-D conversions for "Toy Story" and "Toy Story 2." In converting "Toy Story" and "Toy Story 2" to state-of-the-art 3-D films, the technical team is retrieving all of the original digital elements and rebuilding them in 3-D. Originally released by Walt Disney Pictures in 1995, "Toy Story" was the first feature-length computer-animated film. The film received Oscar nominations for original score, original song and screenplay, and earned Lasseter a special achievement award. "Toy Story 2" was released in 1999 and received an Academy Award nomination for original song. |
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When You Wish Upon a Death Star: Behind the Scenes at the Jedi
Training Academy StarWars.com - Since 1977, fans have dreamed of visiting a galaxy far, far away and learning the ways of the Jedi. Many have gone to extreme lengths, from building their own lightsabers, costumes, and robes to creating their own "character" and back-story, but none have come close to true Force powers... And those are just the adults. What about the children? How can they learn to be real Jedi? Kids are great at using their imaginations which is the heart of the Star Wars universe. But sometimes you really want your fantasy to become reality. So what better place than Disney World? Jedi Training Academy is an interactive experience that began as a part of Walt Disney World's Star Wars Weekends. It's part show, part experience and in the tradition of Disney, magical. This year Disney has embraced the theme "Where Dreams Come True" but the Jedi Training Academy has been making Star Wars fans' dreams come true for many years now. Meet some of the people responsible for making JTA come to life and get a sneak peek behind the scenes of Star Wars and Disney. |
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Ridgeview Charter awarded $5K for Disney production AJC - Ridgeview Charter, in Sandy Springs, is one of 10 schools in the country awarded $5,000 to help with its production of Disney's "High School Musical."
The grant is from NAMM, the trade
association of the international music products industry, and
the Disney Channel, with support from Music Theatre
International and Disney Theatrical Productions. In addition to the money, the license fees for the scripts, worth approximately $2,000, have been waived, said choral director Susan Messer. The money will be used for the production, but Messer said she not exactly sure how. One possibility is an upgrade to the school's lighting and sound systems, she said. More than 100 of the school's 600 students will participate in the production, which will run March 27, 28 and 29, Messer said. |
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Characters
in HCMC for one month festival
Tuoi Tre - Children will be able to meet their favorite Disney characters for the Disney Month festival which is being held at the Saigon Tax Trade Center from now until February 21, 2008. The Disney Month program includes daily activities such as photo shoots with fairies and Disney characters, weekly dancing contests, fashion shows, word-puzzles, a masquerade ball and a competition to name all the Disney characters. Entry to the festival at 135 Nguyen Hue Boulevard in Ho Chi Minh City's District 1 is free of charge. |
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Winslow teen
to star in Disney TV movie Cherry Hill Courier Post - Rising teen star Dexter Darden plays the role of a tormented computer geek who gets the last laugh in the original Disney Channel movie "Minutemen" airing at 8 tonight. His movie debut is proof that the 16-year-old boy isn't letting a potentially life-threatening disease or even a well-intentioned mother derail his longtime dream of becoming a movie star. And the Disney Channel movie is a convincing start for Darden, who has sickle cell anemia, an inherited blood disorder that causes chronic pain by clogging blood vessels, which is damaging to tissues and vital organs. "I'm actually really excited," said Darden, who lives in the township's Sicklerville section. "I'm psyched. I can't wait till it comes out." Pat Darden wants her son to be a lawyer or doctor, but she's proud of his successes. "I had a lot of faith in him. He's motivated. He always wanted to do something in the arts. He sings. He dances. He acts. And I was hopeful some doors would open for him and they did," she said. Darden admits that he can see himself working as a pediatrician some day because of his empathy for sick children. But for now, he's capitalizing on his artistic talent and acting is at the forefront. Darden auditioned for the role in New York City last summer. He wore his tube socks high, taped-up glasses, old-fashioned basketball shorts and Converse in an attempt to appear "over-the-top" geeky. The next day he was offered a role as Chester, king of The Geek Squad. The movie was shot in Salt Lake City. Darden will be watching the movie today at a private location in Margate. His manager, Sabina Kolfa, has arranged a private dinner for him and his family, friends and other talent agents. The home-schooled teen star said "Minutemen" is an entertaining family movie that's worth watching. "Everyone told me I did pretty good. So, I'm pleased with my work, but I am going to be my worst critic." Darden also has worked on other recent projects. He had the lead role in "The Nutcracker," a Paul Morris Dance Explosion Production, in December and appeared in "School House Rock Live," an off-Broadway play last year. He has done modeling work for Vogue magazine and has a lead role in "Sizzlean," an independent film scheduled to hit theaters in 2009. |
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"America's Got Talent" auditions held at Disney resort AP - Auditions start tomorrow near Orlando for singers, dancers, tumblers, kazoo orchestras, puppeteers, and who knows what else, for the next edition of "America's Got Talent." You can show up at the Royal Plaza Hotel at the Walt Disney Resort in Lake Buena Vista. Auditions are in front of the show's producers, who will decide which acts will have a chance to appear on the show. A ventriloquist from Dallas won the million bucks last summer and signed a deal to headline at the Las Vegas Hilton. NBC strongly suggests that anyone who wants to audition, sign up online first. The Web site is nbc.com/Americas_Got_Talent. |
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'Achy Breaky' daughter brings her sparkle to the Sunshine State Ocala.com - The Tween Queen is Florida-bound. Miley Cyrus, aka Hannah Montana, will bring her Best of Both Worlds Tour - one of the hottest tickets of 2007 - into the Sunshine State next week. The shows are sold out. "I love Miley. She's not like all the other pop stars," said Victoria Sexton, 13, an aspiring actress from Ocala. "She's a real person, someone you could talk to. She really connects to her audience." Adds Jacquelyn Sexton, Victoria's mom: "I think Miley's lovely and a lot of fun. She's not just another pop princess; she's rough and tumble. She's not afraid to get her hands dirty. She's got the human touch, and it's good that kids watch her because she makes them realize no one is perfect and it's OK to make mistakes." Country singer Billy Ray Cyrus' little girl has conquered the hearts and minds of American kids - and their parents' wallets. The Disney Channel star really will cash in during the coming days: * Miley, 15, plays sold-out shows Monday and Tuesday at Orlando's Amway Arena. Tickets, ranging from $25 to $65, sold out within hours. Quick two-night sellouts are usually reserved for major adult stars, such as Bruce Springsteen or Beyoncé. The same thing happened for Miley's Wednesday concert in Jacksonville's Veterans Memorial Arena. Virtually every show on the 56-date concert tour was sold out, and scalpers were getting up to $3,000 from desperate parents; ticket brokers pulled in a national average of $240 per ticket, according to The Washington Post. * On Feb. 1, Disney will release the 3-D movie "Hannah Montana/Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert Tour." It's basically a concert film, and Disney has scheduled it to run only one week at theaters. The concert movie was the No. 1 seller on MovieTickets.com its first week on sale, MSNBC reported, and it continues to sell thousands of advance tickets each day. The film will not run at Ocala's Regal Hollywood 16. "It was a corporate decision; all our movies are decided at the corporate level," said Gray Lawrence of Hollywood 16. The movie will open at Gainesville's Regal Royal Park Stadium 16 Theater, 3702 Newberry Road. * On Tuesday, Disney will release the DVD "Hannah Montana: One in a Million," featuring four episodes of the TV series and extras such as "The Top 10 Disney Character Feuds," an episode of "That's So Raven" and two Hannah Montana music videos: "True Friend" and "One In A Million." The TV series has been on since 2005, and Disney contends it is the No. 1 cable program, as well as cable's highest series telecast ever in total viewers. * On Tuesday, Disney also will release the CD "Hannah Montana 2: Non-Stop Dance Party." It features most of her songs in a non-stop dance remix. Her two previous albums, "Hannah Montana" and "Hannah Montana 2: Meet Miley Cyrus," hit No. 1 on the Billboard charts and have sold more than 7 million copies between them. The Disney marketing machine is running full throttle, but even in an era of "High School Musical," Miley mania's commercial presence is unique. It's all part of tween power - kids from 7 to 13, who, with help from their parents and grandparents, represent a $39 billion buying-power market. Last year, Miley made Forbes' list of the richest celebrities under 25, earning $3.5 million, and her income is expected to skyrocket this year. The reason is simple. She plays a normal kid - Miley Stewart -with an alter-ego pop star - Hannah Montana - in her tween sitcom. Kids, such as these students at Fort McCoy School, savor Miley's mix of real world and fantasy life: "I like her because she's cool and a good role model," Faith Frame, 9, said. "I like her music a lot, and I hear it all the time on the Disney Channel." "She's really funny and stylish," added Cheyenne Walker, 9. "I watch all her shows, and I have her CDs. She sings good and is a lot of fun." Ashlin Runyon, 10, likes "the way she dresses and plays both parts on the show. She seems like a regular person, but she's also a singing star. She's very funny." Big daddy Billy Ray, who plays Miley's father on the TV show, appreciates his daughter's remarkable rise to stardom. "The most important thing I tell her is to have fun and enjoy every second," he told the Star-Banner in 2006. "I also tell her, if she ain't happy, it ain't working. I want her to be positive and enjoy herself, and I tell her, most of all, give back to the fans, because it's all about the fans." Like her father, Miley has a knack for dealing with the public. "She's been around me all these years, and I think it shows," he said. "I saw her perform, and afterwards, she signed autographs and made sure everyone left happy. I see a whole lot of that 'some-gave-all' attitude in Miley. She understands." Thus far, the teen has been able to handle the fame and adulation. "The pressure is definitely hard," Miley told TV's "Extra" this month, "but I think just keeping your head on your shoulders is easier than it looks. I think if you know who you are, then I think you'll be fine for the rest of the way." |
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Thursday January 24, 2008 |
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Euro
Disney performance no longer Mickey Mouse Disney/Pixar's Critically Acclaimed Animated Favorite "Ratatouille" Garners Five Oscar Nominations Details of this year's Flower and Garden Festival Ghirardelli store in Downtown Disney to be remodeled McCain on Disney and tourism policy Disney appeals to Chinese tastes Teacher accused of sex on Disney visits Playhouse Disney gives Preschoolers a greener start to the New Year Disney’s Wide World of Sports Unveils 11th Edition of Atlanta Braves Spring Training at Champion Stadium More details on this spring's new Block Party Bash parade Investor asks for seat on Panera's board ESPN Anchor Dana Jacobson Disciplined |
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Euro
Disney performance no longer Mickey Mouse Times Online - Euro Disney, the operator of the Disneyland Resort near Paris, took a further step in its painstaking journey to financial health today by announcing a 20 per cent jump in first-quarter revenues. The theme park, still basking in the glow of being chosen by President Sarkozy as the place to go public on his love for the model-turned-singer Carla Bruni, reported strong growth in visitor numbers, guest spend and hotel occupancy. Kark Holz, the chairman and chief executive, said that the opening of new attractions, such as Crush's Coaster and Car Race Rally, to mark the theme park's 15th anniversary had "created another level of emotional connections with our guests". He said the first-quarter performance showed that its strategy was working, adding: "We remain focused on driving the business towards profitability." The company, which is 40 per cent owned by Walt Disney and 10 per cent by Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal of Saudi Arabia, has not made a profit since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. In the three months to December 31, the first quarter of its financial year, the heavily indebted company lifted revenues by 20 per cent to €341 million (£255 million). Turnover from the resort rose by 14 per cent to €316 million, while revenues from property increased by €18.4 million to €24.4 million, mainly due to the sale of a property in Val d'Europe. Theme park revenues rose by 14 per cent to €175.1 million, and sales from its hotels and the Disney Village retail and entertainment park were up 17 per cent at €126.7 million. The performance was helped by a 10 per cent increase in theme park attendances and a 3 per cent rise in average spend per head as admissions and food and beverage sales both grew. Hotel occupancy increased by 6.8 percentage points and average spend per head was 11 per cent better. Most of the improvement was from Spanish and British guests. In addition to Disneyland and Disney Village, the company runs a Walt Disney Studios park, seven themed hotels with about 5,800 rooms, two convention centers and a golf course. Half of the 2,000-acre site has yet to be developed. During the coming year it will open further attractions, such as the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Stitch Live, an interactive experience. A spokesman said that the company had now reported seven consecutive quarters of strong growth and had yet to see any impact on consumer confidence from the global economic crisis. |
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Disney/Pixar's Critically Acclaimed Animated Favorite
"Ratatouille" Garners Five Oscar Nominations
Disney News - "Ratatouille," the critically acclaimed computer-animated feature from Walt Disney Pictures and Pixar Animation Studios, received five Academy Award nominations today, the most ever for a Disney/Pixar film. In addition to being a nominee for Best Animated Feature Film, the film also earned Oscar-winning director Brad Bird ("The Incredibles") a second nomination in the Original Screenplay category (screenplay by Brad Bird; story by Jan Pinkava, Jim Capobianco, Brad Bird). Bird had previously been nominated for Best Original Screenplay for his work on "The Incredibles." "Ratatouille" also received nominations today in the following categories: Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original Score) for composer Michael Giacchino; Achievement in Sound Editing (Randy Thom and Michael Silvers); and Achievement in Sound Mixing (Randy Thom, Michael Semanick and Doc Kane). This represents the 5th and 6th nominations in the sound editing and mixing categories, respectively, for a Disney/Pixar animated film ("Monsters, Inc.," "Finding Nemo," and "The Incredibles" received a total of four Sound nominations). Commenting on the announcement, Bird said, "It's a great honor to be recognized by the Academy and I'm incredibly proud of all the artists and technical geniuses at Pixar who helped to make it such a wonderful experience. Michael Giacchino is a brilliant composer and collaborator and I'm especially thrilled that the Academy has recognized his fantastic original score which enriches every part of the film. 'Ratatouille' was a very special challenge for me, and I am enormously pleased and grateful that it has struck a chord with audiences, critics and Academy members." "Ratatouille," the eighth animated feature from Walt Disney Pictures and Pixar Animation Studios, was also honored last week with a Golden Tomato Award by the popular Web site, RottenTomatoes.com, for being the top reviewed wide release film of the year with 96% favorable reviews. The film has been a tremendous box office hit all over the world with a global gross exceeding $619 million. |
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Details of this year's Flower and Garden Festival
Disney News -
Goofy catches a topiary wave while Mickey Mouse and gal pal
Minnie chill at the "beach" for the 15th annual Epcot
International Flower & Garden Festival March 19-June 1 at Walt
Disney World Resort. Last year's popular 60-day event has
sprouted runners and expands to a full 75 days with its
first-ever March launch, offering oceans of floral fantasy and
gardening fun. |
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Ghirardelli store in Downtown Disney to be remodeled Disney News - Downtown Disney's Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop is getting renovated. According to plans prepared by the Orlando firm of Cuhaci & Peterson Architects LLC, the changes will include a chocolate tower to be erected on the roof, new signs, flat screen TV's installed on the outside of the shop and a full remodel of the soda fountain area. Ghirardelli will remain open during construction which is anticipated to be completed by March. |
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McCain on Disney
and tourism policy Orlando Sentinel - Republican presidential contender John McCain, in Orlando yesterday for a wide-ranging forum on economic issues, had lots of praise -- and just a little teasing -- for Walt Disney World. As the discussion turned to health-care, McCain noted Disney's recent announcement that it will build a $6 million, on-site health clinic for its more than 40,000 full-time employees and their dependents. McCain said the clinic, once open in early 2009, will "have achieved a level of healthcare provision for employees there that's been a model and attracted a lot of international attention and respect." Of course, McCain also couldn't resist teasing the entertainment giant, which now charges $71 for a one-day theme-park ticket. It came as Florida Hospital executive Des Cummings Jr. told McCain about Disney's decision a few years ago to rework its menu and offer healthier fare. "Did they decide to lower some of the costs?" McCain interjected, drawing a roomful of rueful laughter. Disney and others in the tourism industry might be less amused with something else McCain had to say a little later on. The tourism industry has spent months lobbying Washington leaders to establish an overseas advertising campaign to combat negative perceptions of the United States -- funded at first by a taxpayer loan and later by fees on foreign visa applications. But when Gatorland President and CEO Mark McHugh asked McCain whether the U.S. government should be involved in international tourism promotion, McCain suggested that should mostly be the job of commercial businesses. "I, frankly, think that we have ways of promoting the greatness and beauty of the United States without as much federal government as maybe you would like to see," McCain said. Among other ways to improve the U.S. images that McCain mentioned: Developing and using better technology to reduce the security and bureaucratic hurdles facing foreign travelers who want to come to the U.S. McCain added: "I think the other thing is that our image in the world, in some ways, has suffered because of the war in Iraq. I would, as president of the United States, declare we will never torture another person who is in our custody. I would declare that we would close Guantanamo Bay and move those prisoners to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. I would announce a United States commitment to a global agreement on climate change -- but it has to include India and China....And, frankly, I would also be a lot more humble." |
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Disney appeals to
Chinese tastes Orlando Sentinel - Hao Zhi met a character at Disneyland on Monday that he didn't find at all Goofy. His acquaintance was a relative newcomer to the regular Hong Kong Disneyland gang: Cai Shen Ye, the bearded Chinese god of wealth, decked out in auspicious silk robes and an oversize belt. "This is terrific," said Hao, a civil servant from Inner Mongolia posing for a picture with the god along Main Street U.S.A. "It makes me so happy to see the god of wealth here." That's just the reaction Walt Disney Co. is counting on following a marketing makeover designed to make a classic American theme park look a lot more Chinese. Since it opened in 2005, Disney's Hong Kong park has struggled to connect with consumers. The park, a joint venture with the Hong Kong government, missed public targets for its first year of operation, and attendance dropped nearly 30 percent in the second year to about 4 million. The travel industry has criticized the park for being too small and for not appealing to Chinese audiences. Now, Disney is going on the offensive by going local. Its first big opportunity on that front is a stroke of astrological fortune. In the traditional Chinese calendar, it will soon be the year of the rat. As the Feb. 7 New Year holiday approaches, Disney is suiting up Mickey and Minnie in special red Chinese New Year outfits, and declaring 2008 the Year of the Mouse. The Disneyland Chinese New Year campaign, which lasts until Feb. 24, features a logo with the kind of visual pun that only Chinese might appreciate: the Chinese character for "luck" flipped upside-down (a new year tradition), with mouse ears added on top. Inside the park, vendors hawk deep fried dumplings and turnip cake. The parade down Main Street U.S.A. is being joined by the "Rhythm of Life Procession," featuring a dragon dance, and puppets of birds, flowers and fish set to traditional Chinese music. And of course there's the god of wealth, joined by the gods of longevity and happiness, all major figures in Chinese New Year celebrations. The company's experience in China "is very much in line with a number of other multinationals," says Carol Potter, the China CEO of Omnicom ad agency BBDO, which has been helping Disney develop its new ads for China for nearly six months. "As people really begin to realize that China has a complexity and depth, the marketing becomes more sophisticated," she says. One aspect of Mickey Mouse's personality that's harder to make Chinese: his love of cheese, which isn't very popular in Chinese cuisine. A showcase inside the kitchen of "Mickey's House," a new attraction at the park, displayed his favorite cheese from Europe and North America -- and a steamed rice flour cake from China. |
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Teacher
accused of sex on Disney visits Florida Today - A Florida band teacher is accused of molesting his male students on trips to Walt Disney World, according to FLORIDA TODAY news partner WKMG Local 6. The Orange County Sheriff's Office sex crime unit launched an investigation after receiving information that Charlotte County band teacher, Dale Bowe, may have been molesting young boys on Disney trips in Central Florida. Officers said one of Bowe's Port Charlotte High School male students is claiming he fell asleep in the shallow end of a swimming pool and awoke to find his teacher performing oral sex on him this year. According to Orange County investigators, Bowe took students on special trips to Walt Disney World. "He has been in this community for 18 years and we are really disappointed," Charlotte County Schools representative Michael Riley said. "He was escorted off campus and not permitted to come back on campus." The school district offered Bowe a suspension with pay. However, Bowe decided to resign, officials said. So far, Bowe has not been arrested for his alleged involvement with students outside of Charlotte County, Local 6's Jessica D'Onofrio said. Investigators in the case are working with Walt Disney World to determine how many trips Bowe took to the theme park and when, Local 6 has learned. |
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Playhouse Disney gives Preschoolers a greener start to the New
Year ITNews - Playhouse Disney and the Pre-school Learning Alliance Join Forces to Trial an Environmental Nursery Pack Playhouse Disney today announced it is joining forces with the Pre-school Learning Alliance on the biggest ever trial of educational materials to teach preschoolers about the environment through play. The trial will see 7,300 nurseries receive a free pack as part of Playhouse Disney's Playing for the Planet campaign launched earlier last year. The move follows new independent research, which found that 3 out of 4 parents (74%) believe the subject of the environment should be included on the preschool curriculum. Nurseries will be invited to share their comments on the materials and offer their own ideas to help hone the content and pave the way for a greener future. Rob Gilby, Playhouse Disney Managing Director comments, "The environment is an issue close to many parents hearts and we've been delighted by the response to our Playing for the Planet campaign that helps parents teach their kids about the environment through playful learning at home. It's a natural next step to trial this content in other preschool environments and I'd like to thank the Pre-school Learning Alliance for their help in creating an outstanding resource for nurseries." The Playhouse Disney Playing for the Planet campaign was first launched in May 2007 following research revealing that parents were crying out for ways to teach their preschoolers about the environment. The Playing for the Planet guide was compiled by a team of creative, environmental and child development experts. It contains a range of fun and educational activities designed specifically to help parents teach their preschoolers to be more environmentally aware. The nursery pack combines key elements of the Playing for the Planet guide with expertise from the Pre-school Learning Alliance to create a useful resource for nurseries. The pack contains a range of fun and educational activity templates and games focused around three key areas - play and exploration, active learning and creativity. Each activity uses Playhouse Disney characters such as Tigger & Pooh to help educate and engage preschoolers with key environmental issues such as recycling and conservation. Neil Leitch, Pre-school Learning Alliance Director of Communications adds: "We are delighted to be involved with Playhouse Disney to launch such an innovative and unique program of tailored support for practitioners. Caring for the planet from an early age ensures a better future for everyone. This pack encourages very young children to respect the planet as well as others and complements what a child first learns about the environment at home with their families." Playing for the Planet was brought to life on the Disney Channel with a Playing for the Planet weekend which included eight specially commissioned interstitials following the themes of the guide and including recycling, reusing and water saving ideas for preschoolers. More Playing for the Planet programs encouraging families and their children to think greener and filled with hints and tips, are planned for 2008. The interstitials can be viewed at playhousedisney.co.uk/playingfortheplanet The Playing for the Planet pack is being issued to over 7,300 nurseries across the UK from the 24th January. |
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Disney’s Wide World of Sports Unveils 11th Edition of Atlanta
Braves Spring Training at Champion Stadium Disney News - The Atlanta Braves will battle several key rivals during the 2008 Major League Baseball Spring Training season at Champion Stadium at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex. After two weeks of workouts, the Braves will play a 16-game home schedule that includes marquee clashes with the Mets, Tigers, Cardinals and Dodgers at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex, the leading venue for amateur and professional sports in the country. Braves pitchers and catchers report Feb. 14, marking the beginning of the 11th year the Braves have come to Walt Disney World Resort for spring training. Position players arrive Feb. 19, with the first full-squad workouts on Feb. 20. After opening their home spring schedule with an exhibition game against the University of Georgia on Feb. 27, the Braves begin their major-league home schedule against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Feb. 29. The Braves continue their tradition of hosting the St. Louis Cardinals in back-to-back games, March 9-10, marking the sixth consecutive year the teams have faced off in a two-game spring series. The National League Central’s Houston Astros visit Champion Stadium on three occasions, March 2, 8 and 23. Last season’s American League Central division winner, the Cleveland Indians, visit on March 12 and March 21. Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex will also play host to the American League’s Detroit Tigers on March 7 and 20, and Tampa Bay Rays on March 15. The Braves host three of their division rivals, including the reigning National League East champion Philadelphia Phillies on March 4. The Washington Nationals visit for a pair of dates, March 11 and 26, and the New York Mets conclude the Braves’ spring training slate at Champion Stadium with a March 27 appearance. Individual game tickets for the Braves’ home spring training season go on sale Saturday, Jan. 5, at 10 a.m. through Ticketmaster (407/839-3900 and www.ticketmaster.com) and at the Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex box office. Prices range from $14.50 (general admission lawn seats) to $23.50 (lower reserved). Information on the Braves’ spring training season, group tickets and mini-packs is available by calling 407/939-GAME (4263) and online at www.disneysports.com. The popular mini-packs will include both three-game and five-game options in 2008 and are currently on sale, giving fans their first opportunity to purchase tickets to specific games on the Braves’ 2008 spring training schedule. Fans may also purchase Atlanta Braves Spring Training travel packages through Spring Training USA. Travel packages include Braves game tickets, accommodations at the Walt Disney World Resort and other benefits. Information is available online at www.springtrainingtours.com. |
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More details on this spring's new Block Party Bash parade Disney News - "The Year of a Million Dreams" rocks on at Walt Disney World Resort this spring with a new funtastic parade featuring favorite Disney-Pixar characters in the interactive, high-energy "Block Party Bash" parade. Continuing the Disney Parks tradition of immersive guest experiences, "Block Party Bash" will put Disney's Hollywood Studios guests right in the middle of an unbelievable impromptu party during what could be one of the wildest, most interactive parades ever. With music and excitement cranked to the max for this high-energy street extravaganza, "Block Party Bash" will entice guests to dance, play and party their way through Disney's Hollywood Studios. The wildest block party in Disney history will entertain guests with a non-stop musical parade that doubles as an immersive/interactive street spectacular. Led by the famous Green Army Men, "Block Party Bash" will literally explode into the park as it makes its way down Hollywood Boulevard. In addition to an eclectic mix of fun-inducing retro tunes, "Block Party Bash" will include appearances by some of the most popular characters including Woody and Buzz Lightyear from "Toy Story," Mike and Sully from "Monsters, Inc." and Flik and Atta from "A Bug's Life." The "block party" will transform into major choreographed sections that immerse guests into a feeling of playing with the "toys," screaming with the "monsters" and dancing with the "bugs." The performance will literally be bursting with dancers, acrobats, jumping stilts and a mini caravan of electric scooters filling the performance area with an awe-inspiring array of visuals and sound sensations. The elaborate set pieces for this interactive parade/show will include large floats themed to "Toy Story," "Monsters, Inc." and "A Bug's Life," one-of-a-kind trampoline units (invented specifically for "Block Party Bash") and "tweeners" (smaller floats that look like stacks of toy blocks that double as dance stages, decorative prop boxes and sources of amazing special effects). These rolling stages will camouflage impressive telescoping towers that rise during the finale of the extravaganza revealing Mr. and Mrs. Incredible and Frozone from the Disney presentation of a Pixar Film, "The Incredibles." As a totally immersive experience, guests can expect a contagious spectacle of fun and laughs to spread throughout the audience. "Guests won't be able to resist the show's energetic performers, lovable characters, familiar pop tunes and never-ending surprises," said Robin Trowbridge, show director. "What a fantastic opportunity to share this incredible show with so many guests. I have no doubts that this show with all its fun, energy and surprises will knock the socks off of everyone visiting Disney's Hollywood Studios." "Block Party Bash" at Disney's Hollywood Studios joins an incredible array of new interactive experiences and astonishing entertainment scheduled to premiere during "The Year of a Million Dreams." |
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Investor asks
for seat on Panera's board CNNMoney - A Panera Bread Co. (NASDAQ:PNRA) shareholder, Shamrock Activist Value Fund LP, has requested a seat on the board of the bakery and cafe chain, according to a Securities and Exchange Commission filing Thursday. In mid-January, Shamrock reported a 6.6 percent stake in the Richmond Heights, Mo.-based company. Roy E. Disney, a member of the founding family of Walt Disney Co. (NYSE:DCQ) (NYSE:DIS) , is chairman of the fund's investment manager, Shamrock Capital Advisors Inc. According to the filing, Shamrock Capital Advisors Vice President Christopher Kiper suggested that an executive officer of the fund join the board during a telephone conversation on Tuesday. He spoke with Panera Chairman and Chief Executive Ronald Shaich and Panera Chief Financial Officer Jeffrey Kip. Shamrock said its board representative would be in addition to the company's recent board expansion. On Wednesday, Panera named former CarMax Inc. (NYSE:KMX) CEO W. Austin Ligon and American Dairy (NYSE:ADY) Queen Corp. Chief Operating Officer Charles J. Chapman III as directors, expanding its board membership to six. Shamrock said the call participants also discussed Panera's progress in addressing the shareholder's concerns about governance. In its initial 13D filing in December, Shamrock asked the company to declassify its staggered board, separate the chairman and CEO roles, give all shares of common stock the same voting rights and expand the board to add new members. Shamrock also had proposed that the company provide more information about performance benchmarks for the company's compensation plan. |
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ESPN Anchor Dana
Jacobson Disciplined AP - Insults are the goal of roasts, and plenty were zinged around during a charity dinner held to skewer two ESPN radio hosts earlier this month. One of the network's anchors
went too far. ESPN commentators shared the stage with actors and athletes Jan. 11 in Atlantic City to celebrate the eighth anniversary of "Mike & Mike in the Morning" co-hosts Mike Golic and Mike Greenberg. The whole point was to spout off edgy jokes, but what's OK for comedians Eddie Griffin and Jeffrey Ross may not be appropriate for ESPN announcers seeking to be both entertainers and journalists. Asked whether the network planned to rethink its policy regarding employees taking part in such events, ESPN spokesman Mike Soltys said, "We won't be participating in another roast anytime soon." Jacobson's speech included obscenities aimed at Notre Dame, with Irish football coach Charlie Weis in attendance. An article in The Press of Atlantic City the next day said that Jacobson "made an absolute fool of herself, swilling vodka from a Belvedere bottle, mumbling along and cursing like a sailor as Mike & Mike rested their heads in their hands in embarrassment." She was booed off the stage. In a statement released through ESPN, Jacobson called her comments about Notre Dame "foolish and insensitive." "My actions at the roast were inappropriate and in no way represent who I really am," she said. "I have personally apologized to many of the people involved. I won't make excuses for my behavior but do hope that I can be forgiven for such a poor lack of judgment." ESPN released a statement calling her actions and comments inappropriate. Soltys said the network doesn't comment on personnel matters beyond saying she was disciplined. Notre Dame spokesman Dennis Brown said, "While we in no way condone Ms. Jacobson's comments, we're aware of the circumstances in which they occurred, and, in the interest of forgiveness, trust that she and ESPN have addressed the matter in an appropriate way." Jacobson's remarks came just two days after another TV anchor was suspended for offensive language. Golf Channel suspended Kelly Tilghman for two weeks for saying on air that young players who wanted to challenge Tiger Woods should "lynch him in a back alley." ESPN is a joint venture of Hearst Corp. and ABC, which is owned by The Walt Disney Co. |
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Wednesday January 23, 2008 |
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“Block Party Bash” to Rock Disney’s Hollywood Studios Raising the bar on dining 'Enchanted' Dominates Oscar Song Category 'Year of the Mouse Celebration' Rocks Hong Kong Disneyland Expedition: PINS Going along for the Ride with Disney Imagineer Tony Baxter Joseph segues from Freemantle to Disney-ABC Fairy-Tale Gowns for Real-Life Brides Disney film crews to shoot scenes at the Point |
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“Block Party Bash” to Rock Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Disney News - "The Year of a Million Dreams" rocks on at Walt Disney World Resort this spring with a new funtastic parade featuring favorite Disney-Pixar characters in the interactive, high-energy "Block Party Bash" parade. Continuing the Disney Parks tradition of immersive guest experiences, "Block Party Bash" will put Disney's Hollywood Studios guests right in the middle of an unbelievable impromptu party during what could be one of the wildest, most interactive parades ever. With music and excitement cranked to the max for this high-energy street extravaganza, "Block Party Bash" will entice guests to dance, play and party their way through Disney's Hollywood Studios. The wildest block party in Disney history will entertain guests with a non-stop musical parade that doubles as an immersive/interactive street spectacular. Led by the famous Green Army Men, "Block Party Bash" will literally explode into the park as it makes its way down Hollywood Boulevard. In addition to an eclectic mix of fun-inducing retro tunes, "Block Party Bash" will include appearances by some of the most popular characters including Woody and Buzz Lightyear from "Toy Story," Mike and Sully from "Monsters, Inc." and Flik and Atta from "A Bug's Life." The "block party" will transform into major choreographed sections that immerse guests into a feeling of playing with the "toys," screaming with the "monsters" and dancing with the "bugs." The performance will literally be bursting with dancers, acrobats, jumping stilts and a mini caravan of electric scooters filling the performance area with an awe-inspiring array of visuals and sound sensations. The elaborate set pieces for this interactive parade/show will include large floats themed to "Toy Story," "Monsters, Inc." and "A Bug's Life," one-of-a-kind trampoline units (invented specifically for "Block Party Bash") and "tweeners" (smaller floats that look like stacks of toy blocks that double as dance stages, decorative prop boxes and sources of amazing special effects). These rolling stages will camouflage impressive telescoping towers that rise during the finale of the extravaganza revealing Mr. and Mrs. Incredible and Frozone from the Disney presentation of a Pixar Film, "The Incredibles." As a totally immersive experience, guests can expect a contagious spectacle of fun and laughs to spread throughout the audience. "Guests won't be able to resist the show's energetic performers, lovable characters, familiar pop tunes and never-ending surprises," said Robin Trowbridge, show director. "What a fantastic opportunity to share this incredible show with so many guests. I have no doubts that this show with all its fun, energy and surprises will knock the socks off of everyone visiting Disney's Hollywood Studios." "Block Party Bash" at Disney's Hollywood Studios joins an incredible array of new interactive experiences and astonishing entertainment scheduled to premiere during "The Year of a Million Dreams." |
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Raising the bar on dining Orlando Sentinel - You can trace the theme-park culinary renaissance back to about 1992 when Dieter Hannig did something revolutionary for a corporation the size of Walt Disney World: He allowed the executive chefs and general managers at Disney's top-tier dining establishments to run the restaurants as if they owned them. "It really opened the doors to allow us to be more creative and be more competitive," says Scott Hunnel, executive chef at Victoria & Albert's, "not just in Orlando but with the rest of the country and the rest of the world." As director of food and beverage, Hannig recognized something was missing from some of the Disney restaurants. All were finely appointed, but they lacked soul, says Hannig, 57, whose current title is vice president of food and beverage new concepts. The chefs and the managers were the key to that missing element. Soon Victoria & Albert's became a destination restaurant. And the success of the program led the way for California Grill, Flying Fish Caf�, Citricos and other Disney restaurants to operate in the same way. And when those restaurants became dining destinations for Central Floridians, not just tourists, it raised the bar for local restaurants. Hannig says he probably wouldn't have been able to pull off the concept if he hadn't had the talents of chefs such as Hunnel, Clifford Pleau and John State. "Sometimes," says Hannig, "you hit it right." |
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'Enchanted'
Dominates Oscar Song Category Billboard - Songs from the film "Enchanted" dominated the best original song category nominees for the 2008 Academy Awards, which were announced this morning (Jan. 22). Three of the five nods, all with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, went to the film in the form of "Happy Working Song," "So Close" and "That's How You Know." The other nominees are "Raise It Up" from "August Rush," the music and lyric credits for which are "to be determined," according to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and "Falling Slowly" from "Once," with music and lyrics by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova. A notable omission in the category was Eddie Vedder's "Guaranteed" from "Into the Wild," which won a Golden Globe for best original song last weekend. In the best original score category, the nominees are Dario Marianelli for "Atonement," Alberto Iglesias for "The Kite Runner, James Newton Howard for "Michael Clayton," Michael Giacchino for "Ratatouille" and Marco Beltrami for "3:10 to Yuma." With eight nominations each, "No Country for Old Men" and "There Will Be Blood," lead the overall field. The other best picture contenders are "Atonement," "Juno" and "Michael Clayton." Johnny Depp earned a best actor nod for his turn as a singing, murderous barber in "Sweeney Todd," while Cate Blanchett was recognized with a best supporting actress nod for her portrayal of Bob Dylan in "I'm Not There." Marion Cotillard's portrayal of French singer Edith Piaf earned her a best actress nomination for "La Vie en Rose." The Academy Awards will be presented Feb. 24 at Los Angeles' Kodak Theatre. |
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'Year of the Mouse Celebration' Rocks Hong Kong Disneyland Mickey Mouse along with his pals brought Hong Kong Disneyland to an all-new high today, as guests were given a glimpse of the spectacular activities during the ‘Year of the Mouse Celebration’. Coming around only once every 12 years, this special year is set to bring about an auspicious and fun filled Lunar New Year – Disney style! In a fabulous kick-off ceremony, Mickey Mouse along with a bunch of his best Hong Kong celebrity pals, Vivienne Tam, Twins, Justin, DJ Sammy, and Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Hong Kong Disneyland, Bill Ernest, gave guests a taste of the upcoming festivities. The celebration runs from January 22 to February 24, 2008, and will give a Mickey-twist to Chinese New Year. “To help Mickey celebrate this monumental year, Hong Kong Disneyland has combined the best Chinese New Year traditions with Disney’s unique style of entertainment,” said Mr. Bill Ernest. Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, donning their brand new Chinese New Year costumes created by internationally renowned fashion designer Vivienne Tam, along with the designer herself, Bill Ernest and a plethora of models, kicked off the ‘Year of the Mouse Celebration’ with a high energy fashion show. Guests cheered and went wild as Mickey and Minnie and the models showed off their gorgeous outfits. Two of Mickey’s celebrity friends, Justin and DJ Sammy, also helped to lift guest spirits to a wondrous high, as they unveiled eight artistic statues of Mickey Mouse at the Sleeping Beauty Castle Hub. Designed by different celebrities, including Justin and DJ Sammy, each statue represents a different aspect of luck for the Year of the Mouse, as well as their own unique creativity. In a magnificent finale, special guests Twins, along with Mickey Mouse gave a dazzling introduction to the ‘Year of the Mouse Celebration’ and treated guests to a viewing of their specially created Mickey-themed Chinese New Year music video, which was filmed in the theme park. The song is part of their Lunar New Year album, which will hit stores today. “Mickey, his pals and all the Cast Members at Hong Kong Disneyland are ready to celebrate a prosperous Year of the Mouse with guests. Everywhere guests look, the Resort will be filled with Chinese New Year cheer and luck. This will be the best and biggest ‘Bai Nin’ ever and it’s going to last for a full five weeks,” Bill continued. The Resort, along with Mickey, will give Hong Kong residents a special Lunar New Year gift. From January 22 to February 6, 2008, Hong Kong Disneyland will be offering a special ‘Buy 3 Get 1 Free Offer’ for Hong Kong residents to celebrate a prosperous and magical Year of the Mouse. For high spirited and groovy times in the Park, guests can take part in Mickey’s Rockin’ the Mouse Castle Show, a musical extravaganza filled with Asian hits, electrifying dancers, Disney characters and pyrotechnics. Chinese New Year means all things new and Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse are going to show off their newest designer label outfits in Adventures in Fashion. Other Disney characters, including Daisy, Pluto and Goofy, who have been inspired by the couple’s new outfits, will have Cast Members showcasing their creations, in this glitzy fashion show. As part of the special entertainment for the ‘Year of the Mouse Celebration’, beginning on the first day of the Chinese New Year, guests will be treated to living art in Rhythm of life: Dragon Procession; a magnificent Dragon along with Birds, Fish, Clouds and Waves will weave their way down Main Street U.S.A., in an unique Disney twist on an age old celebration. Mickey Mouse is playing the traditional Chinese host as he welcomes guests to ‘Bai Nin’ at his home in Mickey’s House. With mouse-guides on hand, guests can check out Mickey’s favorite collections of keepsakes and treasures, during a tour of his home. Hong Kong Disneyland loves creativity and Mickey Mouse has asked his celebrity friends, Vivienne Tam, Jacky Cheung and his daughter, Gillian Chung (Twins) and Charlene Choi (Twins), Justin, Fahrenheit, Jan Lamb and DJ Sammy to help him celebrate the Year of the Mouse in Salute to Mickey Statues. Designed by eight different celebrities, with each statue conveying a different aspect of luck, it will be easy to get a great start to the year. Of course Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Chip’n Dale, Goofy and Pluto will be in their own Chinese New Year attire, so guests shouldn’t miss the chance to snap a photo with them. For additional luck and cheer, the Gods of Fortune, Prosperity, Happiness and Longevity will be wishing guests a prosperous Year of the Mouse. With gold and red as the official Chinese New Year colors, over 70 all-new merchandise items under the theme Mickey Family in The Year of the Mouse, will be available for guests to find that perfect gift or keepsake. The Park and the two Disney themed hotels will be filled with endless choices and exclusive items only available during the ‘Year of the Mouse Celebration’. Of course traditional Chinese New Year menus and food will overflow from every corner of the Park and the two Disney themed hotels. With over 80 new items and menus with lucky names, there are sure to be endless ‘lucky’ palates during the ‘Year of the Mouse Celebration’. Hong Kong residents will have an extra way to enjoy the Year of the Mouse festivities with the ‘Buy 3 Get 1 Free Offer’. Eligible guests, who purchase three park tickets in one transaction at published rates during the promotional period, will receive a fourth complimentary Park ticket. This offer is valid from January 22 – February 6, 2008. To ensure that guests have the most magical and enjoyable experience at Hong Kong Disneyland during the ‘Year of the Mouse Celebration’, February 7 – 13, 2008 have been designated as Special Days. Premium Annual Pass holders, as well as guests who have purchased Special Day tickets, will have reserved admission to the Park (Special Day tickets are only valid on the date specified on the respective ticket). For more information on the ‘Year of the Mouse Celebration’ or the festivities during Chinese New Year at Hong Kong Disneyland, please visit www.hongkongdisneyland.com |
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Expedition:PINS Disney News - The images of the pins being released at the upcoming Expedition:PINS pin event at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park on May 3, 2008 are now online and available to view in the full merchandise catalog for the event. You can still register for the event, while supplies last. (Warning: You need to be registered on www.disneypins.com to sign up for the event.) The cost of an event ticket is $150 per guest and includes admission to Disney’s Animal Kingdom park from 7:30-10:30pm, first purchase opportunities for merchandise, a commemorative messenger pin bag, private dinner inside the park, signings by Disney design artists, access to silent auctions, and a number of other surprises. There will also be daytime activities held at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort for event guests. |
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Going along for the Ride with Disney Imagineer Tony Baxter Theme Parks - In early 2007, as the creative gurus at Walt Disney Imagineering that develop and build the company's parks and attractions were putting the final touches on Disneyland's much-anticipated makeover of the Submarine Voyage, I sat down with Tony Baxter, Imagineering senior vice president, creative development to learn more about the ride's history and the creative process involved in bringing it back. An Imagineering veteran whose affiliation with Disney goes back to the 1960s when he operated the Submarine Voyage as a teenage cast member at Disneyland, Baxter was an ideal candidate to talk about the classic ride. I flipped on my recorder, asked Baxter a couple of introductory questions, and he began to talk...and talk and talk. With his moustache, kindly demeanor, and trace of gravel in his voice, there is a hint of Walt Disney in the Imagineer. And like the man for whom the company is named, Baxter shares an evangelical fervor and joy for the Disney parks and his work. He offered some illuminating behind-the-scenes insight about the reborn Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage. I captured his fish stories in my feature, The Submarine Voyage to Find Nemo. But Baxter didn't stop there. Placing the subs within the context of Imagineering's evolution and his considerable history and leadership with the organization, Baxter regaled me with all kinds of Disney park lore. What follows are some highlights from our fascinating conversation. How to become a Disney ImagineerDo you dream about joining the
Imagineering ranks and creating theme park magic? There's no
surefire way to land one of the plum jobs, but you might be able
to get some tips from Baxter as he describes the journey that
took him to the Glendale, California house that built the Mouse.
After graduating college, I applied at WDI [Walt Disney Imagineering, then known as WED--for Walter Elias Disney--Enterprises] and submitted my portfolio, which included an attraction I developed based on the film, The Island at the Top of the World. I had invested my entire senior year in the project. Ultimately, the film was not a hit--but I got the job. I think Disneyland is unique, because it is theater and it uses a landscaped environment and architecture to tell its stories. So I was well versed in all three of those areas. It worked out well. I sort of stumbled into my profession. It's a small world--in a big cityFor the 1964/1965 New York
World's Fair, Walt Disney Imagineering developed four landmark
attractions: Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, the Magic Skyway
(which included animatronic dinosaurs that eventually ended up
in the diorama through which Disneyland's train passes and
inspired the lumbering creatures inside Epcot's Universe of
Energy), It's a Small World, and the Carousel of Progress. The first of the gen-2 Imagineers generates some big thunderImagineering tapped Baxter, at a relatively young age, to take the lead on projects for both Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland and encouraged him to tackle Frontierland as one of his first assignments. The sprawling area, by far the largest of the Anaheim park's lands, accommodated the Davy Crockett-crazy era of the 1950s when Disneyland opened, but was becoming stale by the 1970s. Tony Baxter: The original Imagineers who had worked with Walt were beginning to retire, and I was the oldest young person there. I was in a good position. Claude Coats [who worked on animated classics such as Pinoccchio and Dumbo and helped design many attractions including Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, and Mr. Toad's Wild Ride] was probably the nicest person I ever met [at Imagineering]. He took me under his wing and helped me develop what became Big Thunder Mountain, the first ride to open without any input from Walt. In California, I was nervous because we were knocking out Nature's Wonderland, one of Walt's rides. But it was becoming obsolete; people weren't riding it. Big Thunder Mountain [which opened at Disneyland in 1979] became a major hit because it looks impressive and frightening and it rings all the roller coaster bells. But most of its impact comes from the story, the emotion, and the effects, rather than the [relatively tame] physical experience. So a lot of people can enjoy it together. There is a sense of triumph when an older person or a little kid gets off the ride and had a great time. In the end, it's all about the repeatability of an attraction. Imagineering and ImaginationBaxter was instrumental in
bringing to life some of the attractions at Epcot, the second
gate at Walt Disney World and the first to deviate from the
Disneyland prototype. He helped design The Living Seas and The
Land pavilions as well as an attraction in which he takes great
pride, the original Journey into Imagination ride. While Mickey
and the gang freely roam Epcot now, when the park debuted in
1982 the classic characters were banished, partly to distinguish
it from the Magic Kingdom. Baxter helped fill the void with new,
original characters. Star Wars rockets Disneyland to new placesBaxter says that the early-1980s period following the opening of Epcot were bleak times for the parks and Imagineering. CEO Card Walker, who had come up through the ranks and worked directly under Walt Disney for many years, retired. Disney's son-in-law, Ron Miller stepped in as CEO, b |
The
new images continue the “Disney Dream Portrait Series” of
celebrity photography produced by Leibovitz as Disney Parks
extends, through 2008, its “Year of a Million Dreams”
celebration on both coasts. Leibovitz’s images capture the
transformational power of Disney dreams during a celebration
that invites visitors to live out their own Disney dreams as
never before at California’s Disneyland and Florida’s Walt
Disney World resorts.
“I
was a huge Disney fan growing up as a kid and Cinderella, Snow
White, Pocahontas, Ariel – all those characters were huge for
me, so I definitely did dream,” said Biel. “I never actually
thought I would make it! So this is pretty exciting.”