Citizens of Hollywood

Today we visit the Citizens of Hollywood, formerly known as the Streetmosphere characters at Disney's Hollywood Studios. During my birthday trip, I was fortunate enough to catch all the actors in full force on Hollywood Boulevard. With characters, such as Dorma Nesmond, Minerva Limpwhistle, Judy Pututy (Tinseltown Cutie) and many others, they love to interact with guests as they stroll down Hollywood Boulevard.

I was lucky enough to see quite a few and have included a few pictures and even a video below. Since I was wearing my birthday pin, I got quite a bit of attention as well. Here's a tip, these characters love the camera and love video cameras even more. If you point a video camera at one of them, get ready for a show, as you'll see below.

Next time you find yourself at the Studios, don't be in a rush to get to an attraction. Many people pass right by these characters without a thought, and in doing so, miss out on a real treat. I'll always remember some of the things said to me by Dorma Nesmond or Judy and Minerva and the pictures I got were absolutely priceless. Next trip, be sure to stop and say hi...and have your camera handy. I hope you enjoy my video below as much as I enjoyed making those priceless memories. And don't forget to pause the music at the bottom of the page before watching the video. Cheers!!!!

Sunrise to Sunset ~ A Day at the Magic Kingdom

I'll be blogging about some various topics hopefully over the weekend, but for now I wanted to share this with you. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did.

Predictions for the Future

So much has happened over the past few months that it seems difficult to absorb it all. Though most of the announcements were long standing rumors, it was nice to finally hear some confirmation. But what happens next? What lies around the next corner?

I wanted to take the time to actually list some of my predictions, along with the reasoning behind them. I tend to look at what they're doing and put two and two together to fill in the holes. Some of these may be announced in a few years, while others may be long term. Finally, these are in no particular order of when I think they could or would happen.

1. Radiator Springs - Let's cut to the chase right off the bat, Radiator Springs will come to Disney's Hollywood Studios. Allow me to put it all together for you. Pixar Street will eventually extend all the way to New York Street, changing the Honey I Shrunk the Kids set into A Bug's Life. Next comes the long rumored Monster's Inc. coaster next door to Toy Story Mania. After that comes the removal of the Backlot Tour (which isn't much of a tour these days) and a whole lot of real estate for Florida's incarnation of Radiator Springs. They could even integrate Catastrophe Canyon into this attraction since the theming is essentially the same. After all, every major attraction at California's Adventure has either come from or made its way to Walt Disney World. Don't think for one second that something this major will be left in the wings for long.

2. World Showcase Expansion - Ok, as I've said before, Future World is updated, they've refurbed nearly every pavilion so far. World Showcase hasn't seen an update for many years and there's plenty of land back there to do many things. This would be a good way to pull crowds around World Showcase Lagoon and disperse them throughout the park. There are a couple of possibilities here that were planned but never built, yet seem to be the most likely. Switzerland is my dream country, with its charming Swiss village and Matterhorn style coaster. This would be a great visual in the back of the park, but some feel it would be too close to Expedition Everest.

The second possibility, and one surfacing in more and more rumors, is Russia. This pavilion would be stunning, surrounded by red brick walls, opening into a recreation of Red Square, with a very impressive recreation of St. Basil's Cathedral. Planned attractions included 'Russia - The Bells of Change', a theatrical experience combining Audio-Animatronic characters, animated sets, film, and a live actor to tell the story of this vast country. There was also a ride-through attraction inspired by one of Russia's best loved folk tales, 'Ivan and the Magic Pike.'

3. Adventureland becomes Tortuga - This would completely tie in the expansion at the Magic Kingdom. For so long they have built on two things, Princesses and Pirates. First, we have the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in Fantasyland and Pirate's League in Adventureland. Then comes the confirmation of the large expansion of Fantasyland into nearly being an entire land of Princesses. Is it any stretch of the imagination to next see Adventureland become Tortuga? The hint has even been dropped a few years ago with the above concept art, yet no explanation of any kind. Think of what could happen here. How about a Black Pearl that you could board and explore? How about a character dining experience with Capt. Jack and the other Pirates? So far we've seen similar happenings with Pirates and Princesses, I think the trend will continue.

4. Walt Disney World's Fifth Gate - I've blogged on this before as well, so I'll only touch on it. It's real simple, DisneySea without a doubt. This park has all the makings of a great addition in Walt Disney World and has proven itself on the world stage as one of the most desired parks to visit. Another park wouldn't likely happen for many years, but it will eventually happen and you have to think this is on their short list.

5. Beastly Kingdom - Ok folks, if they weren't still planning on building this, then why are there still mythical creatures on all of the Animal Kingdom signage? This was always to be the park's second phase, and has yet to happen. What are we talking about here? How about Dragon Tower, a ruined castle home to a greedy fire-breathing dragon, where guests board a thrilling roller coaster ride through the castle ruins, climaxing by coming face to face with the evil dragon himself. How about Quest of the Unicorn, sending guests through a maze of medieval mythological creatures to seek the hidden grotto of the unicorn. How about Fantasia Gardens, a musical boat ride through animal scenes from Disney's animated classic, Fantasia. Does this sound like fun?

Doesn't the sheer possibility of these things just make you want to jump up and down? Each make sense in their own way and, while it would take many years to do them all, I think you'll agree there's plenty of plans on the drawing boards to keep Imagineers busy for a long time to come. I believe that the latest announcements are just the beginning of a lot of new things to come at Walt Disney World. We could be seeing the beginning of another "Disney Decade"....or beyond.

Keep Dreaming and Never Lose Hope!!!

A Birthday To Beat All Birthdays

This year is all about celebrating at Walt Disney World, so I took them up on the offer and spent my birthday at the happiest place on earth. It was everything it was made out to be, from the little surprises to all the people who wished me happy birthday along the way. I managed to get a room at the Dolphin over my birthday, which got me a free night, plus I took advantage of the free ticket to Epcot as well.

My day began with breakfast at Cape May in the Beach Club. All the characters were great and I got my happy birthday cupcake as well. But the week had only just begun (yes, I had not a single day but an entire birthday week).

I spent a very nice day at Epcot where I did a passport around World Showcase; I call it my birthday card from around the world. I was treated to several small surprises along the way as well. For example, as I watched the band perform in Mexico, one of the members asked me to come up with them and they sang happy birthday (video clip is posted to my youtube page).

Upon returning to the Dolphin, I was treated with a birthday card and champagne, courtesy of the resort, what a nice touch. This would also be my last night in the Dolphin before moving over to Pop Century for my actual 7-night package, and just the beginning of a wonderful week.

On the first day of my package, I had tea at the Grand Floridian, where the manager presented me with a birthday card signed by the entire staff. Wow, this was now my second card of many that I would receive. Sitting there sipping tea in this fancy setting was very enjoyable and I highly recommend it to anyone to try at least once.

It seemed that everywhere I went, someone would wish me a happy birthday, both castmembers and guests alike. Even people in the parades would yell happy birthday as they walked past. One highlight was when I was watching Jim the piano man playing ragtime and he cut into a happy birthday tune for me, it definitely made me smile.

Below are more pictures of a very nice card, a very crazy guy, and one of many happy birthday cupcakes I received at various dinners at Walt Disney World. If you haven't been on your birthday, you should make it a point to do so if possible. It will be one of the most memorable birthdays of your lifetime.

New Address

Just a quick note to let everyone know that I now have a new web address that is much easier. The new address is http://www.disneybyjoe.com/. The address may take a day or two to become fully operational. Please update your files accordingly.

I'll be writing very soon about my many adventures on my birthday trip to Walt Disney World. Stay tuned everyone!!!

Disney to Buy Marvel

In a surprise move this morning, the Walt Disney Company announced that it has agreed to purchase Marvel Entertainment for around $4 Billion. Marvel holds rights to around 5,000 super hero characters, including Spiderman, the X-Men, Iron Man, Fantastic Four and Thor.

Disney Chief Executive Robert Iger said "We believe that adding Marvel to Disney's unique portfolio of brands provides significant opportunities for long-term growth and value creation".

As a personal observation, remember that Universal's Islands of Adventure currently has an entire land themed to Marvel. What will ultimately happen to this land? The addition of Marvel gives Disney a massive avenue of possibilities. Is this the beginning of something big at any of the theme parks?

Update: Universal does indeed hold the rights to exclusive use of the characters east of the Mississippi as long as their attractions are operating. However, with Disney throwing their identity onto Marvel, one has to wonder if Universal will be in a pickle. One one hand, yes they can keep their attractions, but on the other hand, people may begin to associate them with Disney. That would be a blow to Universal's very identity and they may make the decision to push back from the table and re-brand. Again, this is just a personal observation.

Off To My Laughin' Place!!!

Tomorrow I'm off to my laughin' place, as I venture to Walt Disney World for 10 days of fun and relaxation. When I return, I shall have plenty of new photos and topics to cover. I'll be doing many exciting new things and I'm looking forward to them all.

"OK lets review, that's seat, seat belt, carry-on items, safety strap, fear of heights, keep your hands and arms inside at all times. Anything else? Oh yeah...have a nice flight."

Tying It All Together ~ Magic Kingdom's Grand Plan?

As I’ve watched things that have happened at the Magic Kingdom over the past couple of years, as well as hearing the many dozens of rumors during the same timeframe, I’ve put together what I think could be a grand plan. This plan makes even more sense to me as Disney will soon be gearing up to go head-to-head with Universal's Harry Potter land in the very near future. Please keep in mind that these are only my thoughts based on what I’ve seen and heard…predictions if you will. Additionally, the concept art is just for illustrative purposes and wasn’t necessarily created for this particular plan.

A few years back, a couple of things happened at Cinderella’s Castle. First, King Stefan’s Banquet Hall became Cinderella’s Royal Table; infused with Princesses, it became the most sought after dining experience in all of Walt Disney World. Then the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique was added, where all little girls could become a princess. If you recall the recently “leaked” Fantasyland blueprints, you’ll notice that it is divided into sections for all the Princesses. Were the Princess additions at the castle just the beginning of what will soon become an entire land of Princesses? While I believe it’s a distinct possibility, I think this is only half of the story.

You’ll also notice in the blueprints that there are now TWO Dumbo rides sitting side by side. Where will they get the second Dumbo? Well, how about the Magic Carpet ride from Adventureland? This ride has to be removed from Adventureland for the second phase to become reality.

In the 2006 Annual Report, Disney showed a few pieces of concept art without explaination. One is a Pirate-Themed Land that has yet to be explained to this day. Does anyone remember the old Tortuga rumors? Perhaps Adventureland could be re-themed as Pirates just as Fantasyland may become re-themed as Princesses. What’s the connection you ask? Well how about the recent addition of the Pirate’s League, where all little boys can become a pirate (that sounds so familiar doesn’t it), as well as a new permanent spot for Captain Jack Sparrow recently added directly across. Could the beginnings of a transformation already be taking place?

Have a close look at the concept art and you’ll see a tie in with yet another old rumor. As part Adventureland’s re-theme into Pirates, we could see the removal of the Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse, and its replacement with The Black Pearl. Throw in the old Tortuga Character Dining rumor and the transformation is complete.

One additional point of fact is that a couple years ago Scott Trowbridge was hired as VP for Creative Research and Development. Trowbridge was formerly VP of Universal's Creative Studios, Senior Show Producer for the Spider-Man attraction, and working on Harry Potter at the time of his move to WDI. Makes you wonder what this man’s been working on at WDI over the past couple of years doesn’t it? Could it be his job to top Harry Potter?

With these two lands re-themed, it ties together yet another recent item…the Pirate & Princess Party. The push for Pirates and Princesses has been great over the past couple of years; could this be why? Have they been testing the waters for a possible re-theme all along? Is this and this alone what could go against Harry Potter? No, I think this is but one plan for one park. I feel very strongly that, over the next year or so, we’ll be hearing some announcements not only for Magic Kingdom, but for at least one of the other parks as well. Whether it’s the Beastly Kingdom at Animal Kingdom that was planned but never built, or something else, time will tell. I believe we’re going to see a lot of wonderful things happening over the next few years, all thanks to the world of Harry Potter

Oh, it could also be a new ride I predict at the Disney-Hollywood Studios…but I’ll save that for the next blog item. Until then, here’s to the dreamers….I hope they’re dreaming big!!!

Fantasyland Blueprints Leaked

A few days ago, some blueprints were "leaked" by someone at Disney that shows a massive expansion of Fantasyland. Not only does it include the Little Mermaid attraction I mentioned in another blog, but so much more.

First, some points of reference. In the image below (click to enlarge), look for the carousel and teacups along the bottom of the image. The area between these two attractions, that run along the very bottom of the image, are the current Snow White and Winnie the Pooh rides. You can also see a portion of the Tomorrowland Indy Speedway to the right of the teacups, and the Barnstormer coaster at far-right-center.

After studying these blueprints for a while, I noticed a few things. First, Toontown is basically gone, swallowed up by the Fantasyland expansion. Second, I noticed something was missing....the Dumbo attraction. If you look to the top right corner however, you'll notice that Dumbo isn't missing, but moved. In fact, there are TWO Dumbo attractions sitting side by side in what once was Toontown. Additionally, where Ariel's Grotto currently sits is now a Beauty and the Beast themed area as well, with what looks like a restaurant called "Be Our Guest". Finally, you'll notice an enlarged Pixie Hollow, as well as sections for Cinderella and Aurora...with small attractions/greeting areas of their own.

Could this be Disney's answer to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter? It seems quite obvious that Disney will respond in some form or fashion once Universal opens its new Potter themed land. I've always thought that Disney would wait until after Universal opened its new land before taking any action of their own....which makes perfect sense if you think about it. It not only allows Disney to gauge the impact of the Harry Potter attractions, but also gives them a chance to see it for themselves, and know what they're up against.

So, for now, have a close look at these blueprints, there's lots going on in there and it gives a good idea at what could be happening very very soon in a land with plenty of room for much needed expansion. Its also important to note that Disney often changes and tweaks their plans, sometimes even during construction, so expect many changes when/if construction begins.

A Few of My Favorite Things ~ The Real Characters

As my trip to Walt Disney World draws closer, I am reminded of many fun times with the characters. This time, however, when I say characters I'm not referring to Mickey and friends....but the "real characters," as in the Cast Members.

The Cast Members often provide lasting memories by some of the fun things they do. A good way to remember some of these great times is by having a photo taken with them. Whether it be a fun time in the front car of a monorail, at one of the nations at World Showcase, or an encounter with someone such as Art the Greeter...ask them for a photo and they'll usually be more than happy.

I've found that many of the CM's really enjoy adding that extra piece of magic to your vacation experience and looking back at some of the photos I've taken with them really brings back happy memories for me. Many of the CM's stay in character as well. For example, get a photo with someone at the Tower of Terror or Haunted Mansion and make sure you have a gloomy look on your face, because they usually will as well.

So the next time you're at Walt Disney World, don't forget some of the "real characters" that make your trip even more fun. Stop and ask for a photo. They'll be happy that you asked and you'll have a memory of that moment to last a lifetime!!!

Thoughts & Prayers ~ Disney Monorail Accident

At around 2am two Walt Disney World Monorail trains collided, killing a Castmember who was driving one of them. This is a very sad story and I wish to send my thoughts and prayers to the Castmember's family. No one else was hurt in this accident and the monorail system remains shut down today pending an investigation into the cause of the crash. The Monorails involved were Pink and Purple. Seven others were checked by paramedics and released, with no other injuries reported.

It is worth noting that this is the first such incident to ever occur on the entire monorail system, making it one of the safest forms of transportation on the planet. Once the cause has been determined, one can bet that Disney will put many more safeguards in place to prevent such a tragedy from happening again.

Click here for the latest from the local news.

Below is a link to a photo taken by an unidentified witness. I originally included the photo in this blog, but decided to switch to a link due to the sensitive nature of the photo.

Click here to view the photo.

Always Remember...

As I write this, I mark the 10th anniversary of the sudden passing of my Father. Disney World was our world and we shared many special memories there. Since his passing, I've continued to make memories each time I visit, as I remember him the best way I know how...by continuing the fun that we always enjoyed together.

He always taught me to enjoy life, have fun and not worry about the little things. We shared many one-of-a-kind moments at Walt Disney World that could never be replicated. When I'm at Walt Disney World, I can always feel him walking by my side, and how he would've loved some of the new attractions and the many adventures I've had over the past 10 years.

Here's to you Dad...I shall ALWAYS remember!!!