First Birthday for a Special Gorilla at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
posted on February 18th, 2011 by Dr. Mark Stetter, Director of Animal Operations, Disney Parks
Tomorrow, February 19, Lilly, an endangered western lowland gorilla born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, will be one year old. Speaking from a veterinarian’s perspective, Lilly’s first year has been a bit like trying to solve a challenging puzzle – one that, even if you don’t uncover all the answers, will result in valuable lessons learned and progress made.
Shortly after her birth, our animal care team noticed that Lilly wasn’t clinging to her mother, Kashata, as well as most gorilla newborns. As time passed, we saw that Lilly was much smaller than other gorillas her age, and she was delayed in achieving typical baby gorilla milestones, like grasping, rolling over and crawling.
We are committed to providing all of our animals with the best care. In Lilly’s case, in addition to examinations at our veterinary hospital, we consulted with external medical and pediatric experts, and oversaw a battery of tests to rule out possible causes – such as vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disorders and liver abnormalities. Back to that puzzle I mentioned: The exact cause of Lilly’s condition is still unknown. The great news is that, during the course of Lilly’s first year, we’ve had the opportunity to pioneer new protocols in animal care, and the result is that Lilly is continuing to make progress.
Each day, for example, our animal keepers engage Lilly in what appears to be a form of play but, in reality, is structured occupational therapy. They encourage her to climb, roll over and grasp objects, such as gorilla toys, all in an effort to strengthen her muscles and stimulate her curiosity. Since September, the team has noticed a marked difference in Lilly. She now weighs 13 pounds – three pounds more than she did in November, and she appears much more active and social among her family group.
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Our Guests are captivated by Lilly and love watching her as she interacts with her mom, Kashata, and father, Gino, in their habitat on the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail. And, although we continue to monitor her closely, we are encouraged by the progress in her stamina, strength and dexterity. We’re also pleased to be able to share what we learn taking care of Lilly to benefit other wildlife and conservation efforts.
For more on Disney conservation efforts, visit www.disney.com/conservation.
Celebrating 40 Years of Walt Disney World Magic in Style with Dooney & Bourke
posted on February 18th, 2011 by Dara Trujillo, Manager, Merchandise Synergy, Events, and Communication
A few days ago, Steven Miller introduced you to the Walt Disney World 40th Anniversary collage. As you saw in Steven’s post, the “40th Collage” program is found on keepsakes all around our magical kingdom. The nostalgic print can be found on everything from photo albums and memo pads to mouse pads and address books. But there’s one line of merchandise that Steven left out (actually I begged him to let me break the news…) – the new Dooney & Bourke 40th Anniversary Collection for Disney Parks.
The newest Disney Theme Park Exclusive Dooney & Bourke collection features six different silhouettes and takes the essence of the 40th Anniversary collage and transforms it into Disney Style that you can showcase every day. The bags feature everything from retro Walt Disney World icons to classic silhouettes of Mickey Mouse, plus original park tickets & maps and autographs from a few famous friends. This commemorative collection highlights the essence of Disney with color, style and nostalgic touches.
To help us celebrate the official launch of the 40th Anniversary co-branded Collection, Walt Disney World is welcoming back Ian Ray, Creative Director from Dooney & Bourke. It was around this time last year that Ian joined us for the release of Minnie & Mickey Faces & the Tonal Mickey co-branded collections. Ian Ray will be making a special appearance at Uptown Jewelers in Magic Kingdom on Saturday, February 26, 2011, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
As an extra special treat, to commemorate Disney’s Princess Half Marathon weekend, we will be offering the Dooney & Bourke Princess Collection for Disney Parks for 25 percent off! This special offer on the Dooney & Bourke Princess Collection for Disney Parks is only available February 25–27 at select merchandise locations throughout Walt Disney World.
If you happen to be at Magic Kingdom on Saturday, February 26, make sure to stop by Uptown Jewelers to not only meet Dooney & Bourke’s Creative Director, Ian Ray, but to get an up-close look at the newest Walt Disney World 40th Anniversary Disney Theme Park Exclusive Dooney & Bourke Collection and save 25 percent on the Dooney & Bourke Princess Collection for Disney Parks.
Friendly Disclaimer: 25 percent off Dooney & Bourke Pop Princess Collection discount taken at register February 25–27, 2011. Offer not valid on previous purchases. Available while supplies last. Offer subject to change without notice. Offer only available at Uptown Jewelers in Magic Kingdom, Princess Half Marathon Expo in Jostens Center at ESPN Wide World of Sports, Summer Lace in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and World of Disney Store & Tren-D in Downtown Disney Marketplace.
Tom Staggs Offers Update on Walt Disney Parks & Resorts
posted on February 17th, 2011 by Thomas Smith, Social Media Director, Disney Parks
We know many Disney Parks Blog readers like to keep up with what’s happening in and around the parks. And today, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs gave an update on the growth at Parks & Resorts, how we’re leveraging technology and what’s happening to continue to transform the guest experience at Disney California Adventure, Disney Cruise Line, Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park, Hong Kong and other areas. Take a look (PDF) at what was said.
Aulani – From the Ground Up
posted on February 17th, 2011 by John McClintock, Disney Public Relations
Since 2008, a specially installed time-lapse camera has been observing the construction work on Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, in Ko Olinia, Hawai`i. Here’s a recent video that shows how the Resort has been taking shape the past few years.
I think this kind of video is always fun. You may have seen the time-lapse of construction on the original Disneyland park in 1954-55. It’s still on view in the Main Street Opera House at Disneyland.
Aulani is on track to open on August 29. As it draws closer to completion, I’m learning more details about various aspects of the Resort. I’ll share some of those in my next posts.
Our Favorite Dishes at Disneyland Resort
posted on February 17th, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer
Choosing a favorite dish is sort of like choosing a favorite child: depends on the day of the week which I like best. But here goes, 10 delicious “dishes of the moment” at Disneyland Resort.
C’mon, tell us your favorite Disneyland dish!
- The tender, pan-roasted diver scallops with a lobster-lemon sauce with a hint of vanilla at Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. We dream of these buttery little pillows of yum. Let’s hope they never leave Chef Andrew Sutton’s menu.
- Start a day in Disneyland park with Oscar’s Choice at Carnation Café: scrambled eggs with cheddar cheese, Oscar’s potatoes, a croissant and your choice of bacon or sausage with fresh fruit. The eponymous “Oscar” himself cooks five mornings a week. Once his world-famous potatoes are made, Oscar greets and seats guests on the restaurant’s patio. (Oscar, by the way, is the longest tenured Disneyland Resort cast member.)
- It’s more than a sandwich, it’s a cultural icon – Le Special de Monte Cristo at Blue Bayou in Disneyland park. You can only order here at lunch, a decadent stack of turkey, ham and Swiss cheese in battered egg bread, fried golden. Dip in the little ramekin of grape jelly sauce for a savory-sweet wow.
- Balsamic braised short ribs at Wine Country Trattoria at Disney California Adventure park. These fall-off-the-bone ribs are served with roasted veggies and a white bean stew. Sip a crisp Zinfandel and relax.
- Bone-in rib-eye with chef’s potato stack au gratin at Steakhouse 55. Total indulgence, that hunk of beef. Paired with Chef Jason Martin’s potato creation, it’s a 10.
- Charred Nebraska Corn Chowder at Storyteller’s Café at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. Creamy goodness with chicken, bacon and just enough cilantro to make it interesting. Call it lunch in a bowl.
- A south-of-the-border twist on the classic Caesar: Hacienda chicken Caesar salad at Rancho del Zocalo in Disneyland park. A heap of greens, sweet red peppers, Cotija cheese with housemade dressing and tortilla strips for croutons. Relax at a picnic table and people watch.
- The unusual Chicken Gumbo Crepe at Café Orleans in Disneyland park is a new favorite, with sautéed chicken, Andouille sausage , tasso ham and a kicky Creole gumbo sauce all rolled in a tender crepe with a side of asparagus and new potatoes.
- When we crave Tex-Mex, we head straight to Cocina Cucamonga at Disney California Adventure park for the Carne Asada (grilled beef) and Chicken Tamale Plato, with warm tortillas for wrapping it all up. Fill ‘er up!
- Best-kept secret: the sourdough bread bowl at Harbour Galley in Disneyland park. Plenty of picks: clam chowder, broccoli or Cheddar cheese soup or vegetarian chili. Nibble the bowl as you go.
Four Things Not To Miss in Fantasyland
posted on February 17th, 2011 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort
When Disneyland park opens in the morning, the first instinct for many of you is to head straight for your favorite attraction, with Peter Pan’s Flight being among the top choices. For all of you “shoppers,” here are a few tips for experiencing Fantasyland.
- Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique – Did you know that it takes only a few magical words to make a transformation complete? What are those words? Here’s a hint: three of the most famous words ever spoken by a beloved Fairy Godmother – Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo. These words and the wave of a magic wand by our fairy godmothers-in-training bring the magic mirror to life, presenting the royal debut of your little princess or cool knight. Make reservations early since the openings book fast. (Disneyland Resort: 714-781-STYLE; Walt Disney World Resort: 407-WDW STYLE).
Fun Fact: Take a close look around and you’ll find that Cinderella’s mice are diligently sewing Cinderella a brand new dress (found above the boutique chairs). Have you been able to spot the finished dress somewhere else in the location? - Castle Heraldry Shoppe – Have you ever wondered about your family’s history? Well, wonder no more. The Castle Heraldry Shoppe gives you an up close and personal look at your family’s crest and history. If swordplay is more your speed, then be sure to check out their special collection of swords, as well as gargoyles and other gothic themed decorations.
Special Tip: Now through February 28, annual passholders receive 15 percent off your entire purchase. - Enchanted Chamber – What makes this Castle chamber so special? Kids’ costumes and apparel fill the walls. Did you know that each wall in the store is themed to a different Disney princess?
Fun Fact: This is one of the only locations where you will find a Sleeping Beauty window scene inside the store. - Fantasyland Mad Hatter – Not everyone in this location is mad as a hatter, but it’s bound to turn your world upside down with its variety of themed headwear for any occasion. From embroidered ears and Goofy looking headwear, to pirate and princess themes, you’re sure to be the talk of the ‘party’ with these hats.
Fun Fact: Take a close look at the mirror behind the registers and see if anything “grins” back at you.
I hope you enjoyed some of our fun facts for these locations. Do you have any Fantasyland fun facts to share?
Behind the Scenes: Wild Africa Trek
posted on February 17th, 2011 by Jennifer Fickley-Baker, Social Media Manager
Last month, Social Media Director Thomas Smith posted a video on the new Wild Africa Trek at Disney’s Animal Kingdom – and after watching this preview, I have to say I couldn’t wait to experience the trek for myself.
This African safari-type adventure takes small groups of guests off the beaten path for a three-hour exploration of the park’s Pangani Forest and Harambe Wildlife Reserve. After experiencing it firsthand, I have to say the trek truly is packed with unforgettable animal encounters and unbeatable photo opportunities. While I don’t want to give away all the secrets to this experience, I do have a few highlights I can share.
By far, one of my most memorable moments was “cliffhanging” at the edge of the Safi River while gazing down at the hippos below. In this sense, cliffhanging refers to an elaborate safety harness system that allows guests to walk safely to the edge of the Safi River for unobstructed views. When we arrived at this stop, I couldn’t believe just how close we were going to get to these beautiful animals. An animal keeper also waited nearby to answer all of our questions.
Another high point came when we crossed a series of rickety footbridges. This part of the experience gives trekkers the thrill of traveling at treetop heights, while getting an aerial view of hippos and crocodiles below. I never experienced anything like this before and being so high above the ground was truly a heart-pounding experience.
A third highlight was our stop at the trek’s private savanna overlook camp, where we snacked on African-inspired cuisine and admired giraffes, elephants and other animals passing by. This was a great opportunity to sit back and absorb the peacefulness of our surroundings. Binoculars also were provided and shared among the group.
Inspired to set off on your own adventure? Wild Africa Trek is open to guests age 8 and older. Price varies seasonally. Call 407-WDW-TOUR or 407-939-8687 for more.
Disney Grad Nite Dates Announced for Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World
posted on February 17th, 2011 by Tim Hill, Director of Disney Youth Programs
What do you get when you combine themed dance parties, a fireworks spectacular and your favorite Disney attractions? Disney Grad Nite! And today, we’re officially announcing the dates for both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort.
Disneyland Resort 2011 Event Dates:
5/12, 5/19, 5/26, 6/2, 6/8, 6/9, 6/16
Walt Disney World Resort 2011 Event Dates:
4/29, 4/30, 5/6, 5/7
Celebrating its 50th year at Disneyland Resort and its 40th year at Walt Disney World Resort, Disney Grad Nite is an exclusive high school graduation celebration offered on both the East and West Coasts. Here’s a look at the event:
“Like” both Disneyland Grad Nite and Walt Disney World Grad Nite on Facebook to stay up-to-date on this once-in-a-lifetime party.
Ready to Race at ‘D23′s Great Disney Scavenger Hunt: Walt Disney World’
posted on February 17th, 2011 by Jeffrey Epstein, Manager, Marketing
Hundreds of teams. Four theme parks. Two days. One amazing hunt.
Think you know Walt Disney World Resort like the back of your hand? Now is the time to put it to the test! Following on the heels of last year’s incredible hunt at Disneyland Resort, we are thrilled to announce “D23′s Great Disney Scavenger Hunt: Walt Disney World!” The hunt – set to be the largest in Walt Disney World’s history – is a two-day, four-park event sure to be a blast for serious fans as well as families. Questions will range from the more simple “Miner League” puzzlers to the fairly challenging “Major Domo” clues to the “Super-Difficult-idocious” stumpers! While we know everyone will have fun exploring the parks in new ways, there are also some incredible prizes to be won coming from virtually every corner of Disney!
The hunt is open to both D23 Members and non-members – D23 Members get a specially discounted price. For a complete list of rules and guidelines, click here. Time to lace up your sneakers and get ready to race! Or walk at a safe pace. Hope to see ya there!
Things That Spin in the Night at Disney California Adventure Park
posted on February 16th, 2011 by Paul Hiffmeyer, Chief Photographer for Public Relations, Disneyland Resort
On the way over to Disney California Adventure park to photograph the next part in this series, I was hoping I could get three of the four attractions at Paradise Pier that spin in the same photo – and get them all spinning at the same time. After a little patience, waiting for all three to spin at once, I finally got the photo I was looking for.
I had no idea there would be so many different color patterns on Mickey’s Fun Wheel; no two photos had the same pattern that night unless it was stopped. Here are a couple of examples.
I have a few more images to share from this series, so make sure to stop back if you like “things that spin in the night” here at the Disneyland Resort.
