• LP
  • Home Page
  • LP Lotion Pictorials
  • Online Disney Videos
  • LP Blogs
  • LP Live
  • LP Magazine
  • LP Radio
  • LP Podcast
  • Discussion Boards
  • Disney Headlines
  • The Latest
  • Upcoming Events
  • Features
  • Columns
  • Games
• Disney
  • Disneyland
  • Walt Disney World
  • Movies in Theaters
  • Movies on DVD
  • Tokyo Disneyland
  • Disneyland Paris

Disney News Stories
October 2011

Disneyland Weather Report for October 31 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/31/2011)

Couple of things to talk about this morning. First and foremost be careful out there this morning as we have yet another dense fog advisory in effect.

The real thing to talk about though is the potential for another Santa Ana event Tuesday night into Wednesday.  Expect very gusty winds possible Wednesday if this sets up right.  Expect critical fire danger levels as well.

The chance for showers increase on Friday.

Walt Disney World Weather Report for October 31 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/31/2011)

We sure are not starting this off week so great, but at least we don't live in the northeast!  I'm not sure if you've seen any of the pictures from this weekends storm, but historic almost doesn't cover it!

Things improve around here once we get through today.  You can expect on and off showers all morning – most of the rain is to our north. 

Temperatures will be in the upper 70s to just around 80 all week and the sun comes back out tomorrow through at least mid week. Chance for showers increases as we head towards the weekend (I know – just in time).

Disney Animal Programs Gives “Creatures of the Night” Special Treats for Halloween - (DL) (10/31/2011)

 

As Halloween approaches, several creatures of the night are getting a series of treats from a team of medical experts at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Around this time each year, veterinary care specialists conduct annual wellness checks on a roost of endangered bats as part of Disney’s commitment to excellent animal care.

 

Festival of Masters Welcomes Artist Graham Knuttel - (DL) (10/31/2011)

{big}

The works of Irish artist Graham Knuttel have found homes among Hollywood royalty like Sylvester Stallone, Whoopie Goldberg and Robert DeNiro. On Nov. 11, 2011, one of the renowned artist’s works will find a home at Walt Disney World Resort.

Julie Andrews, Target and Disney Announce First Annual National Princess Week Apr 22-28 - (DL) (10/31/2011)

World renowned actress, singer and best-selling children's author, Julie Andrews, in collaboration with Target and The Walt Disney Company, is announcing the creation and inaugural launch of National Princess Week beginning April 22, 2012.

Halloween Weekend Events at Downtown Disney District Oct 28-31 - (DL) (10/28/2011)

Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort will celebrate Halloween Festival 2011 this weekend featuring special activities including live music on the main stage, arts and crafts, a pumpkin patch and spooky surprises.

Disneyland Weather Report for the October 28th Weekend from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/28/2011)

It would be tough to script a better looking weekend weatherwise.  Temperatures will hit the upper 70s today with plenty of sunshine and they will warm up as the weekend goes on.  By Sunday we'll be in the low 80s with sunny skies.  Get outside and enjoy it!

Walt Disney World Weather Report for the October 28th Weekend from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/28/2011)

I waited for one more observation before sending this off – but it's clear that the atmosphere is moistening up nicely and like I said at the beginning of the week – today isn't the way we like to start weekends around here.  If you want to be glass is half full guy or girl today then you can reassure yourself that things can only get better from here (and they will).  The good news is that once the first bit of rain ahead of the cold front pushes through – it looks like we will have on and off showers but the bulk of the rain will stay near the coast.  That said, expect to need the umbrella a few different times today.

Once the front pushes through temperatures will cool down – I would say without the sun it's going to be hard to get into the 80s today but the official high forecast is 81 – I'll believe it when I see it.  Temperatures will only be in the mid to upper 70s by Sunday but the sun will return and we are setting ourselves up for a pretty nice start to the week.  (Don't you hate when I just blow through your entire weekend like that – enjoy it!)

Could be pretty windy Sunday so if you are thinking about taking a little hot air balloon ride – mother nature may get in the way.

Holiday Savings at Walt Disney World Resort Hotels - (DL) (10/28/2011)

A new Walt Disney World resort offer during the festive holiday season allows guests to keep some jingle in their pockets and enjoy more jingle-jingle of the holiday season at the most magical place on earth.

Guests will rejoice with savings up to 30 percent at select Disney resort hotels for stays most nights Oct. 30 to Nov. 18, 2011, and Nov. 26 to Dec. 23, 2011. They can enjoy the joy, wonder and yuletide merriment while staying smack in the middle of the splendor. A standard room at select Disney Value Resort hotels starts at just $76 per night, plus tax. Bookings must be made by Nov. 19, 2011.

Disney Parks' Chief Medical Officer Pamela Hymel Named 2011 Recipient of Global Leadership in Corporate Health Award - (DL) (10/28/2011)

Pamela Hymel, MD, is the 2011 recipient of the Global Leadership in Corporate Health Award, recognizing her career as a proponent of workplace health and wellness in leading U.S. companies. The award, sponsored by the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM) and the National Business Group on Health (the Business Group), honors the achievements of individuals who demonstrate excellence and leadership in implementing programs that improve the health and productivity of the workforce. 

Disneyland Weather Report for October 27 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/27/2011)

Sunny with a chance of meatballs?  No just sunny with high temperatures in the upper 70s to around 80 for the foreseeable future.

No seriously – it's as simple as that.  Isn't it great I went to school for this?

Walt Disney World Weather Report for October 27 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/27/2011)

Sorry this is late – my cat actually dumped my phone into the toilet and I wish I was making that up – thanks Wally.

Anyway, good news for Central Florida today - looks like sunshine will be the rule of thumb today thanks to high pressure. You would have to head to South Florida to pick up any substantial rainfall, but that's not the case as we head into the weekend unfortunately.

Tomorrow looks to be the worse day with a chance of showers at 50-50 – conditions improve as we head through the weekend into early next week when temperatures will cool off a bit as well.

Walt Disney World New Year's Eve Festivities - (DL) (10/27/2011)

New Year’s Eve is one of the biggest fireworks evenings of the year at Walt Disney World Resort, a place where fireworks are both spectacular and an every-night occurrence. Fireworks and nighttime shows will light up the skies and create a mood of celebration at three theme parks on Dec. 31, 2011, while revelry of other sorts takes place elsewhere throughout the Vacation Kingdom.

Here’s a snapshot of what’s in store:

• Magic Kingdom presents a double helping of pyrotechnics: “Wishes” nighttime spectacular with a holiday overlay at 8:30 p.m. and “Fantasy in the Sky” at 11:51 p.m.

• Epcot‘s “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” delights revelers with a salute to the new year at 7 p.m. and 11:42 p.m.

• At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the 25-minute spectacular “Fantasmic!” that combines water, fire, lights, lasers, fireworks and music will be presented at 6:30 and 8 p.m., with the popular “Lights! Camera! Happy New Year!” fireworks display at midnight.

• At Cirque du Soleil, all guests attending the Dec. 31 performances will receive a limited-edition Walt Disney World/Cirque trading pin. Shows are at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. For pricing contact 407/WDW/SEAT.

• Registered guests at select Disney resort hotels will be treated to music and entertainment. At Narcoosee’s restaurant (Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa), for instance, there will be a four-course dining experience for $149, plus DJ, balloon artist and special fireworks viewing at 8:30 and 11:51.

• Atlantic Dance Hall at Disney’s Boardwalk Resort offers a special-ticket New Year’s Eve party from 8 p.m.-2 a.m. with video DJ Tony Zapulla.

 

Disneyland Weather Report for October 26 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/26/2011)

I promised you it would get better by mid week and here we go … the real good stuff comes as we head into the weekend but today is much improved from Monday wouldn't you say?

So when you wake up there are still a few showers out and about popping up on radar, but clouds will clear out RAPIDLY this morning so by the time we get to the afternoon it's go time!  Temperatures will top out in the mid 70s today but warm up to around 80 tomorrow and Friday.

If you don't have plans for the weekend just yet outside – go ahead and make em it's going to be great.

That said if you plan to have a cookout – be careful as it is very dry and there is a Red Flag Warning in effect for your area right now.

Walt Disney World Weather Report for October 26 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/26/2011)

Rina continues to churn and strengthened yesterday.  I'm not sure if you saw my tweet from yesterday but it's a pretty interesting fact:

#Rina intensified into a hurricane in just 21 hours. This is the second fastest such intensification since record keeping began in 1851.

So more on her in a moment.  Showers continue to pop up over the Atlantic waters this morning and a COUPLE may creep over into our area but for the most part we are looking at a pretty good day across the Walt Disney World parks.  Temperatures will be warming again today and top out in the mid 80s for highs.

It will continue to get warmer tomorrow and dew points are once again creeping up – all of this ahead of a cold front which is approaching for the weekend so you won't have to deal with the sticky weather for long.  Friday is looking like our not so hot day as we transition into a drier air mass as well.

Rain chances decrease into the weekend but linger through Sunday.  Temperatures will fall back into the upper 70s though setting up a really nice start to next week if you don't mind looking ahead that far.

So what bout Rina … well latest model runs have her stalling out around Cuba as we approach the weekend.  Central Florida impacts should be minimal but if you were planning on heading down to the Keys this weekend you may want to rethink that.  Shear SHOULD build across the system forcing it to weaken, but I never like to believe it until I see it.

Stay on top of changes throughout the day by following me on Twitter @WDW_Weather.  I've also been enjoying answer peoples weather questions through DM or @reply … so if you have a specific question fire away.

Disneyland Weather Report for October 25 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/25/2011)

I'm not seeing as much rain on radar this morning as I did yesterday but there's still a few pesky showers around the radar this morning.

I've seen better days for you I won't lie – but then again it's early in the week so would you rather have a not so perfect beginning to the week so you can have a stellar weekend?  I thought so. Improvement is coming.

Low clouds and some patchy drizzle will be the rule this morning and you can take that right through tomorrow morning as well.  Clouds will linger all day with may some SMALL peeks of sunshine – temperatures will top out around the mid 60s if we are lucky.  The sunshine returns and the weekend is looking great as highs rebound back up to around 80 by Friday.

Walt Disney World Weather Report for October 25 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/25/2011)

Rina intensified rather rapidly in the last 24 hours, but even as I write this a distinguished eye has not revealed itself.  As I said yesterday I thought I was just about finished warning people about hurricane season and I wanted to get some of you for the dry season and to run the Princess Half Marathon with me – but here we are.  By the time you read this I will have tweeted the latest model runs for Rina and only a few outliers have her ruining vacations this weekend…but as with any storm of a named variety they always bear watching.

In the short term however, things look nice for the next 48 hours.  When I say nice – I mean dry and fairly warm (and getting warmer).  

It is going to be a bit windy today (but I actually enjoy that while visiting the parks) - with highs getting in the low 80s and plenty of sunshine.  Tomorrow the sun continues to shine but temperatures will pop back up in the mid 80s.  The uncertainty in the forecast comes much after Thursday … Thursday should still be good but it's Friday that is looking like the day with the most problems just because of a few different factors.  Stay tuned and we'll keep you ahead of any storms as we get closer.

Disneyland Weather Report for October 24 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/24/2011)

Got some showers showing up on radar early this morning – so it's something to keep in mind on your way into the office.

Showers should dissipate by noon and we may even see some sunshine but this won't be the best Monday you've ever seen.

In fact the beginning of the week isn't looking so hot, with temperatures only getting into the upper 60s, but by the time we get to the end of the weekend expect sunshine and temperatures back up around 80.

Walt Disney World Weather Report for October 24 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/24/2011)

So I've been getting emails about Rina and who would have thought we'd still be talking about a tropical event as we head ALMOST into November, but here we are.  The latest National Hurricane trends show Rina actually becoming a minimal hurricane before the end of the week so while most models keep the storm away from Florida, it's always something to keep an eye on.  And to think I was just getting ready to talk about Florida's dry season!

Anyway, it's going to feel like the dry season is getting off to an early start as dewpoints are relatively low and the high temperature isn't expected to get much above 80 today.  Sunny skies will be the rule today and tomorrow.  Temperatures will creep up during the week and so will the moisture leading to thunderstorms becoming a possibility once we get past Wednesday.

There's a higher degree than normal of uncertainty based on what happens with Rina – so stay tuned.  Enjoy the gorgeous weather today and tomorrow though.

Benefit Sale Returns to WDW's Downtown Disney to Raise Funds for United Way Nov 5 - (DL) (10/24/2011)

Early-bird shoppers will have a fabulous opportunity Nov. 5 to support Heart of Florida United Way and enjoy discounts on most merchandise at participating Downtown Disney Marketplace stores. Shoppers can purchase a $5 voucher that will serve as their ticket to The Benefit Sale. All proceeds from the voucher sales will go to HFUW and the many health and human service programs it supports throughout Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties.

ESPN Wide World of Sports Named ‘Business of the Year’ at SPORTYS - (DL) (10/24/2011)

The Central Florida Sports Commission recognized ESPN Wide World of Sports at Walt Disney World Resort as “Business of the Year” last month at the inaugural Central Florida SPORTYS Awards. The event honored deserving local athletes, coaches, employees and businesses, ranging from amateur to professional, throughout Lake, Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Volusia Counties.

Disney Fantasy Upper Decks a Splashing Delight for Kids and Comfortable Retreat for Adults - (DL) (10/21/2011)

An array of wet and wonderful new surprises help guests cool off as they enjoy soaking up the sun aboard the Disney Fantasy, Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship scheduled to set sail in March 2012.

Disneyland Weather Report for October 12 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/12/2011)

Let me tell you this – if you are not used to the heat do your best to limit physical activity and it may be best to stay indoors because it is going to be HOT today AND tomorrow with temperatures in the interior topping out in the triple digits.

It will be slightly cooler along the coast but the beach will be hot too … I'd expect temperatures easily into the mid and upper 90s.  By the time we get through the weekend that marine layer will thicken up and high temperatures will return to right around 80.

Make sure to stay hydrated … and think about this – it will likely be officially hotter in Disneyland than Walt Disney World today!

Walt Disney World Weather Report for October 12 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/12/2011)

Latest model runs indicate a bit of a change over the last couple of days for the weekend.  First things first – temperatures will once again top out in the upper 80s and there's enough moisture around to trigger off a few afternoon thunderstorms.  It looks like that trend may continue for another day tomorrow whereas earlier in the week Thursday was supposed to be a mostly sunny day.  I suppose it is Florida and while it was looking like a dry pattern was kicking in for the end of the week – these things do change.  It will still be a far better 5 or 6 days than we've seen in a while – and anything is an improvement over the weekend.

So temperatures will remain in the upper 80s through the next 48 hours without question, but Saturday looks like a really nice day with sunny skies and slightly cooler temperatures in the mid 80s.  Moisture once again creeps up for the beginning of next week – so it's not time to welcome the "dry season" just yet.

Disney Fairies Magazine Now on Retailers' Shelves - (DL) (10/12/2011)

From Disney Publicity...

Tinker Bell, the beloved pixie made famous by Walt Disney’s Peter Pan, invites young girls to celebrate the magic of autumn with Rosetta, Fawn, and her other friends in Disney Fairies magazine! 

Since the launch of the Disney Fairies franchise in 2005, this beloved brand has drawn from Disney’s rich heritage to create a world full of friendship, pixie dust, and flitterific fun.  From books to toys, apparel to youth electronics, Disney Fairies builds upon the enormous popularity of Tinker Bell, introducing girls to her secret, magical world, and a new circle of enchanting fairy friends – each with an incredibly diverse talent, personality, and look.

With Disney Fairies magazines in over 40 countries to date, the brand’s ability to speak to young girls is unprecedented.  Disney Publishing Worldwide now brings the magic to homes throughout the U.S. with this subscription based publication.  Disney Fairies magazine includes:

• Stories that encourage lasting friendships.
• Games to inspire creativity and explore the wonders of nature.
• Quizzes and crafts, including the transformation of a gourd into a jewelry box.
• A collectible poster.
• An opportunity to join the Fairy Fan Club where girls can submit their own drawings, letters, and poems for a chance to see them in Disney Fairies magazine.

 

 

Disneyland Weather Report for October 11 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/11/2011)

Yet another morning of dense fog awaits you when you wake up so be careful on those morning commutes.  We are going to be on a ride similar to Space Mountain when it comes to the temperatures for this week heading into the weekend.  Strong high pressure is going to build leading to warmer highs today and downright HOT temperatures tomorrow. Expect highs in the mid 80s today but expect them to skyrocket tomorrow where we flirt with the mid 90s!!  A cool down will occur just in time for the weekend but wow – these are the kind of weeks that just never cease to amaze me.

Walt Disney World Weather Report for October 11 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/11/2011)

If you read my tweet last night you already know how this story ends … and it's a good one for a change!

After Mother Nature gave us quite the soaking last weekend, she's going to make up for it in a big way this weekend.  If you don't have plans to attend the Food and Wine festival this weekend, well maybe you should because while a few showers may linger today into tomorrow – the good stuff is right on the horizon.

So like I said – there's enough moisture in the atmosphere to give us some showers this afternoon, with high temperatures reaching into the mid to upper 80s.  There will be a drying and cooling trend as we head into the weekend with temperatures a rather pleasant 85ish on Saturday with plenty of sunshine.

Disneyland Weather Report for October 10 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/10/2011)

Wasn't it just a few days ago we were talking about cool rainy days?  Well guess what it's going to be downright HOT by the end of the week as temperatures not only go through the 80s, but head into the 90s.  Plenty of sunshine to start the week today and that trend continues all the way through the week.

Walt Disney World Weather Report for October 10 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/10/2011)

After a soaking this weekend a gradual clearing and warming trend will be coming our way this week ahead.  We can't rule out some showers today but nothing like what we've been seeing the last few days.  Each day will get progressively nicer - but temperatures will be slightly above average for this time of the year.  By the time we get to Thursday - we should see mostly sunny skies with only the slightest chance for a shower.

Save Up to 30% on Rooms at Select Walt Disney World Resorts This Fall - (DL) (10/10/2011)

 

Save up to 30% on rooms at select resorts this fall:

For stays most nights 10/30 - 11/18 and 11/26 - 12/23/11, you can save:

• 15% at Disney's All-Star Movies Resort and Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter 
• 20% at Disney Value Resorts (except Disney's All-Star Movies Resort), Disney Moderate Resorts (except Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter) 

For stays most nights 10/30 - 11/21 and 11/26 - 12/23/11, you can save:

• 20% at Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground 
• 25% at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge and Disney's Polynesian Resort 
• 30% at Disney Deluxe Resorts (except Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge and Disney's Polynesian Resort) and Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts 

 

 

Disneyland Weather Report for the October 7th Weekend from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/7/2011)

Now THIS forecast is the polar opposite for our friends at Walt Disney World … after a rough start to the week – Mother Natures turns on her charm to give us a glorious Columbus Day weekend!  

High pressure builds in so expect plenty of sunshine and a very nice warming trend as we head through the next several days.

High temperatures will be in the low to mid 70s today but reach up to flirt with 80 by tomorrow and into the 80s by the end of the weekend into early next week.

The marine layer should stay pretty shallow so a nice lunch on the pier wouldn't be the worst idea you ever had.  Bring that jacket to World of Color though – things may get a little chilly for the late show.

Walt Disney World Weather Report for the October 7th Weekend from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/7/2011)

A tricky forecast to say the least.  If you can keep away from the east coast of Florida through the weekend, that would be the best idea – so hopefully you weren't planning on a day or two in Daytona because we are talking about a washout – and by the end of the weekend THAT may be an understatement.

Deep onshore flow is going to push showers and thunderstorms well inland today – and considering Walt Disney World isn't all that far away in the grand scope of things – yes that means it could rain pretty good here.  We are talking about 4-6 inches of rain and maybe more along the coast – meaning that flood prone areas (even inland) need to keep an eye on things.

Today promises to give us some sunshine – some clouds and the possibility of as I said some rain - (more rain as you head east) - but today won't be a washout.  In fact the weekend won't be a washout here, it's just going to be the polar opposite of the glorious forecast we had for the 1st Wine and Dine weekend of this year.  Precipitation chances increase Saturday and Sunday and rain chances look to remain above average into early next week.

High temperatures will be in the mid 80s today and lower just a bit tomorrow into the weekend based on expected increased cloud cover.  I'll tweet updates as watches and warnings are issued, but this may be a movie weekend indoors if you have a flexible schedule.

Disney CEO Bob Iger to Step Down in 2015 - (DL) (10/7/2011)

Disney has released a press release indicating Bob Iger will become Chairman of the Disney Board at the next shareholder meeting in addition to his current CEO duties. He will continue to be CEO until March 2015 at which time he will step down. He will then continue his chairman duties until 2016. Early speculation is either Tom Staggs or Jay Rasulo will succeed him in 2015.

elebrity Chef Todd English to Debut Latest Book at Second Annual Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic Oct. 7 & 8 - (DL) (10/7/2011)

The Second Annual Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel returns Oct. 7 - 8 with even more food, drink, and seminars. Highlighting the event will be the appearance of celebrity chef Todd English on both evenings who will be debuting his latest book Cooking In Everyday English: The A, B, Cs of Great Flavor At Home. Attendees will be able to purchase the book and have an opportunity to have it signed. The book becomes available to general public on Oct. 11.

New Book: DESIGN: Just for Fun By Bob Gurr - (DL) (10/7/2011)

The most thorough behind the scenes stories ever told about Themed Entertainment design at America's favorite destination resorts - Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Tour, Spectacular Las Vegas and more.

Disneyland Weather Report for October 6 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/6/2011)

Well you made it through the tough stuff.  I am not saying that today is going to be any 10 out of 10 day but it will certainly be better than yesterday!

Temperatures will again struggle to make it out of the upper 60s and I wouldn't hold my breath on that, but a warming trend occurs this weekend.

You may still see some scattered showers all day long but the rain won't be as bad as the last day or so and we'll see (hopefully) a little sunshine.  That said we'll be flirting with 80 once again for a high before you know it (translation- Columbus Day :-)).

Walt Disney World Weather Report for October 6 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/6/2011)

You know I do hate the running joke that weather guys just basically guess or say 50 percent chance of rain every day but right now with all the model uncertainty for the weekend that's about the best I can do.  The one thing I can tell you for Walt Disney World is that the good times – well they are just rollin right out of here … after a gorgeous couple of days here comes the wind and here comes the rain.

There will be sunshine to start today and really only about a 30 percent chance of rain but those chances increase through the weekend as a subtropical low could affect the area (though the coast could be more directly impacted).

High temperatures will max out in the mid 80s the next few days and some of that is directly related to how much sun we actually get before showers roll in.  I hope that model runs come into agreement tomorrow morning so I can give you guys a good weekend update.

Disney Execs Iger and Lasseter React to Steve Jobs Death - (DL) (10/6/2011)

Disney execs Bob Iger and John Lasseter both released statements on the death Appe CEO and Disney Board member Steve Jobs:

Bob Iger: Steve Jobs was a great friend as well as a trusted advisor. His legacy will extend far beyond the products he created or the businesses he built. It will be the millions of people he inspired, the lives he changed, and the culture he defined. Steve was such an "original," with a thoroughly creative, imaginative mind that defined an era. Despite all he accomplished, it feels like he was just getting started. With his passing the world has lost a rare original, Disney has lost a member of our family, and I have lost a great friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Laurene and his children during this difficult time.

John Lasseter: Steve Jobs was an extraordinary visionary, our very dear friend and the guiding light of the Pixar family. He saw the potential of what Pixar could be before the rest of us, and beyond what anyone ever imagined. Steve took a chance on us and believed in our crazy dream of making computer animated films; the one thing he always said was to simply 'make it great.' He is why Pixar turned out the way we did and his strength, integrity and love of life has made us all better people. He will forever be a part of Pixar?s DNA. Our hearts go out to his wife Laurene and their children during this incredibly difficult time.

In addition, Iger was one of many on ABC's Nightline last night as show below.

 

Disneyland Weather Report for October 5 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/5/2011)

YUCK!  Does that sum it up for you?

It may be a little early for most of you to hear the "s" word (no not that word – I mean snow), but that's what you will hear as snow is expected in the higher elevations.

Regardless of what elevation you are at – it's going to be a YUCK day with rain a certainty so this does not make the best day for your visit to Disneyland unless you are planning to ride the rapids all day.

Rain will taper to showers tonight and may linger into tomorrow but Mother Nature isn't always this mean and the weekend is looking great as temperatures rebound into the upper 70s.

Highs will struggle to get out of the mid 60s today.

Walt Disney World Weather Report for October 5 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/5/2011)

Here comes the changes I've been talking about – the dry season while in the distance is not upon us yet as the atmosphere begins to moisten a bit today.

Winds will noticeably pick up and you'll start seeing some clouds as you get closer to the shore.  Disney World should have one more very nice day with plenty of sunshine but you'll feel a little more humidity in the air.

Temperatures will creep up for the rest of the week into the upper 80s, but today should stay in the mid 80s. Rain chances increase through the weekend with most models in agreement that Saturday could potentially be the wettest of the days with a good 50-50 chance of rain.  The not so good news is that it looks like this pattern will continue into early next week.

Marvel Studios to Present Exclusive Look at Marvel's The Avengers at New York Comic Con Oct 15 - (DL) (10/5/2011)

Producer Kevin Feige and Select Cast Members to Appear Saturday, October 15^th in the IGN Theater – Presented by Sprint!

New York Comic Con (NYCC) is proud to announce Marvel Studios, for the first time ever, will participate in this October’s NYCC. Marvel Studios will present a special event in NYCC’s IGN Theater – Presented by Sprint on Saturday, October 15^th from 6:30-7:30 PM, a high-profile panel focused on the upcoming feature film Marvel’s The Avengers. Marvel Studios will debut never-before-seen footage from The Avengers, and panelists will include Kevin Feige (Producer), Chris Evans (Captain America), Tom Hiddleston (Loki), Clark Gregg (Agent Coulson), and Cobie Smulders (Agent Hill). The Avengers is scheduled for release on May 4^th, 2012.

Disneyland Weather Report for October 4 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/4/2011)

Mother Natures case of the Mondays is going to continue right on through the week so hopefully this isn't your vacation week!  Two storm systems are going to bring unsettled weather to the area through the end of the week with cool temperatures.  Showers today will lead to more substantial rain tomorrow into tomorrow night.  A gradual warming trend will bring temperatures back to normal by the end of the weekend.  But its going to be cool today into tomorrow thanks in part to rain and clouds.

Walt Disney World Weather Report for October 4 from @WDW_Weather - (DL) (10/4/2011)

As I continue to recover from Disneys Wine and Dine half marathon I would like to once again thank Mother Nature for giving all of us gorgeous weather for the race!  The dry pattern continues today into tomorrow but some more active weather is on the way for later in the week so enjoy the sunshine while you can.

You've likely felt humidity levels creep up the last 48 hours but high temperatures will remain in the mid 80s though slightly warmer tomorrow.  Rain chances really creep up by Friday but it looks like temperatures shouldn't make it back into the 90s.

Send some pictures from the race ... I'd love to see em!

Chimpanzees Receive Emergency Support from the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund - (DL) (10/4/2011)

 

The Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund is responding immediately to needs of the Jane Goodall Institute and the Pan African Sanctuary Alliance to protect endangered chimpanzees in Africa. The Jane Goodall Institute was awarded $5,000 for veterinary supplies to vaccinate chimpanzees and staff against a dangerous measles outbreak at the Tchimpounga Sanctuary in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Chimpanzees are highly susceptible to human diseases, and the high cost of vaccines for 146 chimpanzees and 60 staff members jeopardized the team’s ability to cope with future medical emergencies. 

 

Disney Announces Four More Disney & Pixar Films Coming to Theaters in 3D in 2012 and 2013 - (DL) (10/4/2011)

On the heels of the phenomenal success of The Lion King 3D – which will cross the $80 million mark at the domestic box office today – The Walt Disney Studios has announced limited theatrical engagements for four of its classic films for the first time in 3D. The following titles from Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios will be released in 2012 and 2013:

• Beauty and the Beast – January 13, 2012
• Disney•Pixar’s Finding Nemo – September 14, 2012
• Disney•Pixar’s Monsters, Inc. – January 18, 2013 (Monsters University, a prequel to the original film, arrives in theaters in Disney Digital 3D on June 21, 2013)
• The Little Mermaid – September 13, 2013

 

New Epcot Info Board Features Live Twitter Feed with "Interesting" Tweets - (DL) (10/3/2011)

Epcot has unveiled its new information board near Pin Central. Rather than a large, digital board as it used to be it's a large computer screen (or perhaps multiple screens) which allows for much more flexibility. The only downside is you have to walk up to it to see wait times and FastPass availability (the old board was so large the info could be seen from a distance). One interesting thing ... there was some items on the Twitter feed that I wouldn't normally expect to see on a Disney info board. I can't imagine Disney doesn't monitor it, but I still found one of the tweets (which I snapped a picture of), not particularly Disney like.