MKJo
12-15-2009, 20:35
Disney Encourages New Generation of Volunteers
With Launch of ‘Give a Day, Get a Disney Day’ Jan. 1, 2010
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – The spirit of volunteerism gets into full swing Jan. 1, 2010, as Disney Parks kicks off “Give a Day, Get a Disney Day,” a national program designed to boost philanthropic outreach.
Whether it’s fulfilling a New Year’s resolution for quality family time or embracing the spirit of “giving back,” this first-of-its-kind Disney program is an easy and fun way to meet that goal. “Give a Day, Get a Disney Day” was created to inspire 1 million people to lend a helping hand and give back to communities in need.
In return for their volunteer service, Disney will award these 1 million people with a free one-day admission ticket to a Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort theme park. (Consumers must pre-register and starting Jan. 1 can sign up for an eligible volunteer opportunity through Disneyparks.com. Children must be six years of age and accompanied by an adult to participate.)
Disney Parks partnered with HandsOn Network, the nation’s largest volunteer network, to determine volunteer opportunities across the U.S. and Canada. Some of HandsOn Network’s family-friendly projects include planting a garden, visiting a nursing home, painting a school and assembling backpacks for needy schools.
HandsOn Network is part of Points of Light Institute and has 250 volunteer action centers across the country, connecting volunteers to more than 70,000 nonprofit agencies that need assistance.
Defending Marathon Winner Adriano Bastos
Returns to Disney in Quest for Sixth Straight Title
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – From the moment runners cross the start line, they know the journey will be one of the best experiences of their lives.
The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by CIGNA – with spectacular races through the most magical setting in the world – takes place Jan. 7-10, 2010, and promises to have the largest field in Disney marathon weekend history with 55,500 participants.
Walt Disney World Marathon defending champion is Adriano Bastos, who will try for his sixth straight Disney victory, seventh overall. A character himself, Bastos can’t be missed, whether he’s donning his signature Goofy hat or carrying his native Brazilian flag.
Marathon Weekend is filled with competition and fun starting with Disney’s Health & Fitness Expo (Jan. 7-9) and ending when runners cross the finish line to earn the exclusive Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck or Goofy medals.
Participants have the option to run in the half marathon on Saturday, Jan. 9, the full marathon on Sunday, Jan. 10, or, for the Goofy ones out there, both races and receive an extra race medal. This year 7,500 athletes will attempt the Goofy Challenge as it celebrates its fifth anniversary. Those that will be running the Goofy Challenge for their fifth straight year, otherwise known as “Perfectly Goofy” runners, will receive special recognition throughout the weekend.
Family members can participate in a variety of events, such as the Disney•Pixar UP & Away 5K Fun Run, Kids’ Races and Mickey Mile.
The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is one of the most popular races in Disney’s Endurance Series, which includes the Champion 5K at ESPN the Weekend (Feb. 27, 2010), Disney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend (March 5-7, 2010), Expedition Everest Challenge (June 12, 2010) and the Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend (Oct. 1-2, 2010).
Disney Cruise Line Introduces Family-Friendly Port Adventures
For 2010 Mediterranean and Northern Europe Sailings
CELEBRATION, Fla. – In 2010, Disney Cruise Line has created family-friendly Port Adventures that allow guests to best experience the culturally rich locales on the Mediterranean, and Northern European itineraries.
All Port Adventures will offer impeccable Disney guest service and are designed to entertain and inspire both children and adults – in true Disney fashion. Added touches such as more scheduled breaks, complimentary snacks and beverages, and fun port journals for kids are provided on all Disney Cruise Line Port Adventures.
For example, in St. Petersburg, Russia, the majestic Catherine Palace provides the setting for an elaborate Royal Ball. Disney princesses such as Cinderella, Snow White and Belle arrive by horse-drawn carriages and entertain guests at a grand gala.
During a tour of Florence, families experience city highlights together, then divide into separate groups where children spend time creating their own Italian fresco painting and parents are free to explore the impressive Palazzo Vecchio.
The Sidi Bou Said Treasure Hunt in Tunis guides families throughout focal points of the popular destination by following clues. This quest brings to life the culture, sites, sounds and flavors of the city as guests receive hand-painted henna tattoos, sip freshly prepared mint tea and get their name written in Arabic as a souvenir.
In Florence, the Tuscan Cooking School and Wine Tasting takes guests on a northern Italian culinary journey. An authentic Tuscan farmhouse is the venue where guests learn how to create delectable Tuscan cuisine using fresh, local ingredients.
To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit disneycruise.com (http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/dcl/en_US/home/home?name=HomePage), call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500 or contact their travel agent. Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888/325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com (http://www.disneytravelagents.com/portal/site/dta-domestic).
Disney Villains Cast a Comical Spell on New Stage Spectacular Aboard Disney Cruise Line
CELEBRATION, Fla. – The malevolent world of the Disney villains takes a comical spin in “Villains Tonight!,” a musical spectacular premiering this spring aboard Disney Cruise Line. The revue-style show will debut March 20, 2010, on the Disney Magic and delight guests aboard the new Disney Dream cruise ship in early 2011.
“Villains Tonight!” is the first full-scale musical production dedicated to the Disney villains. The show is a family-friendly, fun-filled musical extravaganza that places these famous characters in some irreverent funny moments.
Disney Cruise Line assembled an all-star creative team headlined by the Tony-nominated Broadway writing team of Hunter Bell and Jeff Bowen (“[title of show]”), and features a “Who’s Who” of the Disney villains, including Disney’s newest scoundrel, Dr. Facilier from “The Princess and the Frog.” The show also features classic divas like Maleficent (“Sleeping Beauty”)and the Evil Queen (“Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”).
The show’s scenery takes guests on a dazzling journey through many villainous worlds, from the deck of Captain Hook’s ship to Scar’s Elephant Graveyard to Ursula’s Undersea Lounge. Never-before-seen interpretations of classic Disney villains come to life through extravagant costumes and artistic makeup.
[Editor’s Note: For more information, photos and videos, visit the Disney Cruise Line Public Relations media only Web site at www.dclnews.com (http://www.dclnews.com/).]
Victoria & Albert’s Awarded Five Diamond Rating
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – For the 10th consecutive year, Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has been awarded the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award for 2010, one of only 52 restaurants in the United States (and just three in Florida) to receive one of the most coveted symbols of excellence in the hospitality industry.
Chef Scott Hunnel, Resort General Manager Israel Perez and Master Pastry Chef Erich Herbitschek are the team behind the winning dining experience. According to AAA’s ratings guidelines, to achieve Five Diamond status, restaurants must “consistently provide a world-class experience. . . ‘haute cuisine’ at its best. Menus are cutting edge, using only the finest ingredients available. Food is prepared in a manner that is highly imaginative and unique. . . A maître d’ leads an expert service staff that exceeds guest expectations by attending to every detail in an effortless and unobtrusive manner.”
New Pastry Chef Joins Team at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Award-winning pastry chef Jeff Barnes has joined the culinary team at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
With 30 years experience as a pastry chef, he most recently was executive pastry chef at Amelia Island Plantation in Amelia Island. He also has worked at other Florida resorts including the Ritz-Carlton Palm Beachand Hyatt Regency Tampa. Barnes has a bachelor’s degree in business administration in management from West Georgia College and completed culinary and pastry apprenticeship training.
Disney’s Dreamers Academy 2010
Honors Black History Month at Walt Disney World Resort
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – One hundred high school students from across the country will celebrate Black History month as they convene at Walt Disney World Resort Feb. 11-14 to participate in Disney’s Dreamers Academy 2010. This annual program is in partnership with nationally syndicated radio personality Steve Harvey.
Some 100 high school students and a guardian will be given unprecedented access to the magic behind Walt Disney World Resort. As part of their experience, this group of dreamers will participate in interactive workshops focusing on a variety of subjects including Walt Disney Imagineering techniques, entertainment, the business of sports, culinary arts and more. Disney cast members, executives and celebrities will share their blueprints for success. Participants will also explore Disney’s theme parks and then end their special weekend with a graduation ceremony where a special guest will deliver a motivational address.
In conjunction with “TheSteve Harvey Morning Show,”Walt Disney World Resort conducted the Dreamer’s Contest to identify the participants, grades 9-12, in Disney’s Dreamers Academy. This program was created for high school students who show promise but may need additional motivational support to excel. However, all of the selected students share a trait: the power to DREAM.
Disney’s Dreamers Academy With Steve Harvey was launched in 2007. For more information visit http://steveharvey.com/disneysdreamersacademy/.
With Launch of ‘Give a Day, Get a Disney Day’ Jan. 1, 2010
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – The spirit of volunteerism gets into full swing Jan. 1, 2010, as Disney Parks kicks off “Give a Day, Get a Disney Day,” a national program designed to boost philanthropic outreach.
Whether it’s fulfilling a New Year’s resolution for quality family time or embracing the spirit of “giving back,” this first-of-its-kind Disney program is an easy and fun way to meet that goal. “Give a Day, Get a Disney Day” was created to inspire 1 million people to lend a helping hand and give back to communities in need.
In return for their volunteer service, Disney will award these 1 million people with a free one-day admission ticket to a Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort theme park. (Consumers must pre-register and starting Jan. 1 can sign up for an eligible volunteer opportunity through Disneyparks.com. Children must be six years of age and accompanied by an adult to participate.)
Disney Parks partnered with HandsOn Network, the nation’s largest volunteer network, to determine volunteer opportunities across the U.S. and Canada. Some of HandsOn Network’s family-friendly projects include planting a garden, visiting a nursing home, painting a school and assembling backpacks for needy schools.
HandsOn Network is part of Points of Light Institute and has 250 volunteer action centers across the country, connecting volunteers to more than 70,000 nonprofit agencies that need assistance.
Defending Marathon Winner Adriano Bastos
Returns to Disney in Quest for Sixth Straight Title
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – From the moment runners cross the start line, they know the journey will be one of the best experiences of their lives.
The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by CIGNA – with spectacular races through the most magical setting in the world – takes place Jan. 7-10, 2010, and promises to have the largest field in Disney marathon weekend history with 55,500 participants.
Walt Disney World Marathon defending champion is Adriano Bastos, who will try for his sixth straight Disney victory, seventh overall. A character himself, Bastos can’t be missed, whether he’s donning his signature Goofy hat or carrying his native Brazilian flag.
Marathon Weekend is filled with competition and fun starting with Disney’s Health & Fitness Expo (Jan. 7-9) and ending when runners cross the finish line to earn the exclusive Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck or Goofy medals.
Participants have the option to run in the half marathon on Saturday, Jan. 9, the full marathon on Sunday, Jan. 10, or, for the Goofy ones out there, both races and receive an extra race medal. This year 7,500 athletes will attempt the Goofy Challenge as it celebrates its fifth anniversary. Those that will be running the Goofy Challenge for their fifth straight year, otherwise known as “Perfectly Goofy” runners, will receive special recognition throughout the weekend.
Family members can participate in a variety of events, such as the Disney•Pixar UP & Away 5K Fun Run, Kids’ Races and Mickey Mile.
The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is one of the most popular races in Disney’s Endurance Series, which includes the Champion 5K at ESPN the Weekend (Feb. 27, 2010), Disney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend (March 5-7, 2010), Expedition Everest Challenge (June 12, 2010) and the Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend (Oct. 1-2, 2010).
Disney Cruise Line Introduces Family-Friendly Port Adventures
For 2010 Mediterranean and Northern Europe Sailings
CELEBRATION, Fla. – In 2010, Disney Cruise Line has created family-friendly Port Adventures that allow guests to best experience the culturally rich locales on the Mediterranean, and Northern European itineraries.
All Port Adventures will offer impeccable Disney guest service and are designed to entertain and inspire both children and adults – in true Disney fashion. Added touches such as more scheduled breaks, complimentary snacks and beverages, and fun port journals for kids are provided on all Disney Cruise Line Port Adventures.
For example, in St. Petersburg, Russia, the majestic Catherine Palace provides the setting for an elaborate Royal Ball. Disney princesses such as Cinderella, Snow White and Belle arrive by horse-drawn carriages and entertain guests at a grand gala.
During a tour of Florence, families experience city highlights together, then divide into separate groups where children spend time creating their own Italian fresco painting and parents are free to explore the impressive Palazzo Vecchio.
The Sidi Bou Said Treasure Hunt in Tunis guides families throughout focal points of the popular destination by following clues. This quest brings to life the culture, sites, sounds and flavors of the city as guests receive hand-painted henna tattoos, sip freshly prepared mint tea and get their name written in Arabic as a souvenir.
In Florence, the Tuscan Cooking School and Wine Tasting takes guests on a northern Italian culinary journey. An authentic Tuscan farmhouse is the venue where guests learn how to create delectable Tuscan cuisine using fresh, local ingredients.
To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit disneycruise.com (http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/dcl/en_US/home/home?name=HomePage), call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500 or contact their travel agent. Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888/325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com (http://www.disneytravelagents.com/portal/site/dta-domestic).
Disney Villains Cast a Comical Spell on New Stage Spectacular Aboard Disney Cruise Line
CELEBRATION, Fla. – The malevolent world of the Disney villains takes a comical spin in “Villains Tonight!,” a musical spectacular premiering this spring aboard Disney Cruise Line. The revue-style show will debut March 20, 2010, on the Disney Magic and delight guests aboard the new Disney Dream cruise ship in early 2011.
“Villains Tonight!” is the first full-scale musical production dedicated to the Disney villains. The show is a family-friendly, fun-filled musical extravaganza that places these famous characters in some irreverent funny moments.
Disney Cruise Line assembled an all-star creative team headlined by the Tony-nominated Broadway writing team of Hunter Bell and Jeff Bowen (“[title of show]”), and features a “Who’s Who” of the Disney villains, including Disney’s newest scoundrel, Dr. Facilier from “The Princess and the Frog.” The show also features classic divas like Maleficent (“Sleeping Beauty”)and the Evil Queen (“Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”).
The show’s scenery takes guests on a dazzling journey through many villainous worlds, from the deck of Captain Hook’s ship to Scar’s Elephant Graveyard to Ursula’s Undersea Lounge. Never-before-seen interpretations of classic Disney villains come to life through extravagant costumes and artistic makeup.
[Editor’s Note: For more information, photos and videos, visit the Disney Cruise Line Public Relations media only Web site at www.dclnews.com (http://www.dclnews.com/).]
Victoria & Albert’s Awarded Five Diamond Rating
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – For the 10th consecutive year, Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has been awarded the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award for 2010, one of only 52 restaurants in the United States (and just three in Florida) to receive one of the most coveted symbols of excellence in the hospitality industry.
Chef Scott Hunnel, Resort General Manager Israel Perez and Master Pastry Chef Erich Herbitschek are the team behind the winning dining experience. According to AAA’s ratings guidelines, to achieve Five Diamond status, restaurants must “consistently provide a world-class experience. . . ‘haute cuisine’ at its best. Menus are cutting edge, using only the finest ingredients available. Food is prepared in a manner that is highly imaginative and unique. . . A maître d’ leads an expert service staff that exceeds guest expectations by attending to every detail in an effortless and unobtrusive manner.”
New Pastry Chef Joins Team at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Award-winning pastry chef Jeff Barnes has joined the culinary team at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
With 30 years experience as a pastry chef, he most recently was executive pastry chef at Amelia Island Plantation in Amelia Island. He also has worked at other Florida resorts including the Ritz-Carlton Palm Beachand Hyatt Regency Tampa. Barnes has a bachelor’s degree in business administration in management from West Georgia College and completed culinary and pastry apprenticeship training.
Disney’s Dreamers Academy 2010
Honors Black History Month at Walt Disney World Resort
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – One hundred high school students from across the country will celebrate Black History month as they convene at Walt Disney World Resort Feb. 11-14 to participate in Disney’s Dreamers Academy 2010. This annual program is in partnership with nationally syndicated radio personality Steve Harvey.
Some 100 high school students and a guardian will be given unprecedented access to the magic behind Walt Disney World Resort. As part of their experience, this group of dreamers will participate in interactive workshops focusing on a variety of subjects including Walt Disney Imagineering techniques, entertainment, the business of sports, culinary arts and more. Disney cast members, executives and celebrities will share their blueprints for success. Participants will also explore Disney’s theme parks and then end their special weekend with a graduation ceremony where a special guest will deliver a motivational address.
In conjunction with “TheSteve Harvey Morning Show,”Walt Disney World Resort conducted the Dreamer’s Contest to identify the participants, grades 9-12, in Disney’s Dreamers Academy. This program was created for high school students who show promise but may need additional motivational support to excel. However, all of the selected students share a trait: the power to DREAM.
Disney’s Dreamers Academy With Steve Harvey was launched in 2007. For more information visit http://steveharvey.com/disneysdreamersacademy/.