summer 2013 • Volume22 • Number2

TWENTY YEARS OF DISNEY VACATION CLUB® What truly separates humans from other animals? (Please don’t say “moats,” “fences” or “really thick glass,” as I’m not talking about zoos.) Is it our ability to develop technology? Our consumption of milk from other species? Our universal love of pants? While each of these may be true, something decidedly more meaningful separates even the most technologically deficient, lactose-intolerant nudists from the rest of the animal world: an ability to tell stories. From early cave painters to modern filmmakers and everyone in between, storytellers have always been (as far as we know) human. All around the world, we humans use stories to teach, to inspire, to entertain, to motivate, to get our kids to sleep and, sometimes, to get ourselves out of trouble – even stooping on occasion to blaming our transgressions on creatures that lack the necessary storytelling skills to properly defend themselves. (“The dog ate my homework.” “The pigeon stole your pretzel!” “You see, officer, it all started when this honey badger ran right out in front of me, like he just didn’t care.”) Storytelling is at the heart of everything we do here at Disney. As Disney Heritage columnist Jim Korkis explains on pages 25-26, it’s what set Walt Disney apart from his predecessors in animation, and it’s what continues to drive the company today. This edition of Disney Files Magazine celebrates that rich (and uniquely human) storytelling tradition by showcasing everything from the personal anecdotes of our community’s new leader (pages 2 and 7-8) to the African stories of cultural representatives at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge (pages 3-4) – many of whom speak of the resort’s non- story-sharing animals. While these features spotlight storytellers in the literal sense, they aren’t alone in the storytelling tradition. Stories are everywhere at Disney. We tell them in Theme Parks (pages 18 and 21-22), through food (pages 5-6 and 17), and on the silver screen (pages 27-28). We put them in the carpet (pages 5-6), in your memories (pages 10 and 29-30) and even on giant sheets of ice (page 12). It’s not only what makes us Disney; it’s what makes us human. (Well, that and pants.)

Welcome home,

Ryan March Disney Files Editor

Illustration of Ryan by Keelan Parham

VOL. 22 NO. 2

Disney Files Magazine Information contained in this Contact Member Services from For Member Services in Japanese, Disney Vacation Club magazine is subject to change 9 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Eastern weekdays call 0120-98-4050 Tuesday-Sunday, P.O. Box 10350 without notice 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Eastern weekends 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (Japan Time) Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 (800) 800-9800 or (407) 566-3800 Email: [email protected] DVC-MBR-65-W Update your mailing address online at Fax: (407) 938-4151 Please recycle this publication www.dvcmember.com Email: [email protected] facebook.com/disneyvacationclub Inspired at a restaurant By Ken Potrock, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Disney Vacation Club and Adventures by Disney “One little spark of and we’re reminded of our work’s warmest purpose. inspiration is at the heart You’re not only the reason we’re able to do what of all creation.” Penned we do, you’re the reason we enjoy doing what we do. by the legendary Sherman For being an endless source of inspiration, I give you brothers and sung famously my heartfelt thanks…and I raise a pastrami on rye to – albeit a bit nasally – at my Dad. Epcot by a loveable dragon of royal purple pigment, these memorable lyrics from the Journey Into Imagination theme song remind us that even the biggest ideas can have simple beginnings. Those little sparks are everywhere, and they can lead you to extraordinary places. This edition of Disney Files Magazine, for example, includes a behind-the-scenes look at the new Disney∙Pixar filmMonsters University, a prequel to 2001’s Monsters, Inc. If you’re a big fan of that original film, you may know it was inspired by an Nikki Yee-Martinez and Brandon Sasaki of Hawai‘i, idea shared during a now-legendary Pixar lunch meeting Members since 2011 that also sparked concepts for A Bug’s Life; Finding Nemo and WALL∙E. I sure hope they expensed that lunch! While I’ve yet to produce a film, I do have a little something in common with those Pixar filmmakers. Like them, some of my greatest inspirations can be traced back to a restaurant. It was a delicatessen in Akron, Ohio, called Lou & Hy’s. The restaurant was owned by my father, Hy, and I worked there for many years in my youth. What I observed through that experience was my Dad’s constant focus on both the customer and his employees. Every customer who came into that restaurant was special to him, and every employee was family. Don Schneider of Michigan, Member since 1995 In a broader sense, it also shaped how people saw that restaurant, which my father operated for an impressive 40 years. People came back time after time not just for the food, but for my Dad, for the staff and for the way the place made them feel. I continue to draw inspiration from those years as I settle into my new role here at Disney Vacation Club. Our community is one that deeply values the people we so proudly serve. When we look at our Members, we don’t see numbers in a database. We see Nikki Yee- Martinez and Brandon Sasaki hangin’ loose in Hawai‘i, Don Schneider unwinding on his first cruise and Audrey Hunter getting a kiss from Belle. We see the countless memories being made through the magic of Membership, Audrey Hunter of Ontario, Canada, Member since 2009

2 the human element African Cultural Representatives shine at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Walt Disney World Resort: Walt Disney said Disney recruiters like Courtney visit Southern Africa famously that, “You can dream, create, design and build once a year for about three weeks, stopping in South the most wonderful place in the world … but it requires Africa, Botswana and Namibia to meet candidates who people to make the dream a reality.” travel from throughout the region to interview for a role in That sentiment takes on special meaning at Disney’s the program. Relationships with local universities (most of Animal Kingdom Lodge, where African Cultural which have travel and tourism programs) and strong word- Representatives enrich the Member and Guest experience of-mouth marketing from the Disney program’s alumni with first-person stories and insights from their homeland. help attract hundreds of qualified candidates (about half of These engaging Cast Members are part of an whom are current university students, with the other half in international talent-casting tradition that began with the early stages of their careers). the opening of Epcot (where World Showcase pavilions “From a résumé perspective, we look for candidates feature Cast Members native to each represented nation) with connections to the travel and tourism industry, from and extended to northern resorts to restaurants to Africa with the debut safari-tour operators,” of that Park’s Morocco Courtney explained. “But pavilion, to eastern Africa the most important part for the Park’s Millennium is the interview. We’re Village during the looking for a certain spark, Millennium Celebration, and we often know within and to southern Africa seconds that a candidate with the openings of both will be engaging with our Disney’s Animal Kingdom Guests. What makes this Theme Park and Disney’s challenging is that so many Animal Kingdom Lodge. of the candidates we meet “We’re the only Bonno Mokgathong, left, with Courtney Carroll in Africa have that spark. Disney Resort to feature Narrowing our list from international Cultural hundreds upon hundreds of Representatives, which is part of what makes this place candidates down to that magic 80 is, by far, the hardest so special,” Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Education part of the process.” Manager Courtney Carroll told Disney Files Magazine. Candidates selected to be part of the Disney’s Animal Seventy-three of the 80 Cultural Representatives Kingdom Lodge Cast family fill one of four roles: lobby recruited this year from southern Africa are employed greeter (offering arriving and returning Members a warm (on yearlong cultural-exchange visas) at Disney’s Animal “welcome home”), savanna guide (educating Members Kingdom Lodge (with the other seven at the Park), putting and Guests about the resort’s African animals), food and this unique Disney Vacation Club destination at the beverage host or hostess (Guest-facing roles at the resort’s epicenter of the program (known officially as Disney’s restaurants), or culinary representative (food-preparation International Cultural Representative Program). roles in restaurant kitchens – part of the resort’s secret to “The recruiting process is awesome,” Courtney told preparing authentic African fare). us with a smile we often see when international travel With Cultural Representatives filling so many roles in is part of a Cast Member’s job description. “I’ve had so many areas of the resort, it’s almost impossible to not the opportunity to travel to Africa twice to interview meet one (or dozens) of these fascinating people during candidates. We have a small but mighty team of recruiters your stay. On the day of our interview with Courtney, for who travel all over the world to staff our international example, Cultural Representatives were out leading art programs, and I’ve been thrilled to be part of it.” and culinary tours of the property, giving African drum

3 lessons, sharing their wildlife knowledge at savanna overlooks and more. Helping Members and Guests take it all in is a packed activity guide available at the Front Desk, outlining the many Cultural Immersion, Culinary Exploration, and Animal Programs and Wildlife Discoveries experiences available during their stay. As activities are available almost constantly from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., many Guests – particularly Members who visit frequently – spend entire days at the resort without ever hitting the Theme Parks. (Think of it as the dry-land equivalent of a Disney Cruise Line itinerary’s day at sea.) Most of the program’s representatives are in the U.S. for the first time, including savanna guide Bonno Mokgathong, one of Courtney’s Botswana recruits who began their yearlong program in August 2012. Having worked for a safari company in Africa, Bonno feels a special connection to the animals that call the Here are the 18 nations from which resort “home.” Disney has recruited African Cultural “Whenever I’m homesick, the animals make me feel at home,” Bonno told us, Representatives since the program’s explaining that differences in time zones limit most communications with his family inception: in Botswana to daily email exchanges. “On my days off, when I think about going to the Parks, I usually end up going to Disney’s Animal Kingdom [Theme Park]. • Botswana The safari is like a piece of my home.” • Comoros Bonno said he’s often as eager to learn about Guests’ home countries as they • The Congo are to learn about his. • Egypt “Working on the safari in Africa, I may meet people from three or four • Eritrea countries in a week,” he explained. “Here at Disney, I feel like I can meet half of • Ethiopia the world in a day.” • Guinea Many of Bonno’s conversations allow him to clear up common misconceptions • Kenya about his homeland, from its native languages (many Guests are surprised to • Lesotho learn that most Africans speak fluent English) to its weather (while some may • Malawi describe a Florida summer as being “Africa hot,” Botswana actually has four • Morocco distinctive seasons – complete with dry freezes in winter – and even its hot • Namibia summers lack Florida’s humidity) to its civic infrastructure (Bonno’s hometown • South Africa has grown from rural village to thriving city, thanks in part to the opening of an • Swaziland international airport). • Tanzania “I enjoy teaching people about my home and learning more about theirs,” • Uganda Bonno said. “I particularly like talking to children. I’ve led safari programs for • Zambia children in Africa, and they’re always excited to learn. I can change the way kids • Zimbabwe think about animals, and that’s very important to me.” Bonno is hopeful that his American adventure will include travel to other areas of the country before his return home this fall. “I have a few American places to visit on my bucket list,” Bonno said (using a phrase that’s apparently more global than we once thought). “I want to visit New York City and Washington, D.C. I’d also like to see Texas and any place that has snow.” Until then, Bonno will continue to work his magic at his Florida home away from home, adding his infectious smile and insightful stories to families’ vacation memories – just as Walt envisioned.

4 Updating a culinary classic California Grill to reopen late this summer

Walt Disney World Resort: How do you elevate restaurant’s last major refurbishment 18 years ago, from the dining experience at one of Disney’s most popular emerging equipment technologies to growing consumer restaurants? “Very carefully,” answered Brian Piasecki, demand for local, organic, sustainable ingredients) Chef de Cuisine for Disney’s Contemporary Resort. became an ambitious plan to re-imagine every space “Updating a classic is a big responsibility, and you both on stage and behind the scenes. spend more than a few sleepless nights thinking about Partnering with the Puccini Group – the renowned, every detail.” California-based design firm behind some of the nation’s The chef speaks of the ongoing refurbishment of top dining destinations (including restaurants at Aulani, a California Grill, a place with satisfaction ratings as high Disney Resort & Spa, Ko Olina, Hawai‘i) – Disney dream- as its perch atop the resort tower. The restaurant’s so makers began laying the groundwork for a new California popular, in fact, that many Guests (including a Disney Grill that would be both nostalgic and cutting-edge. Vacation Club Member couple who reportedly flew in for “One of my favorite historical touches is the carpet the evening from New Jersey) went out of their way to be pattern,” said Food and Beverage Operations Manager part of its last dinner service before crews began working Dianna Pillow. “Look closely, and you’ll see shapes their makeover magic. inspired by the work of [Disney Legend] Mary Blair, What started as an effort to simply update the who created the famous tile mural in the resort’s [Grand kitchen (a lot has changed in the culinary world since the Canyon] Concourse.”

Artist Rendering – Proposed Artist Rendering – Proposed

The nostalgic flooring will complement a midcentury- modern look defined by clean lines, sleek lighting and hip furnishings, including two new “communal” tables designed to seat 10 Guests each. While those tables will sit in prime Magic Kingdom fireworks-viewing position, Guests throughout the restaurant will enjoy the nighttime spectacular either from outdoor viewing platforms (with the refurbishment project) are certified sommeliers, fine two exits to those platforms instead of the previous one) wines will continue to be a California Grill staple. or from their seats (with an upgraded sound system The other staple, of course, is the cuisine itself, providing the soundtrack). which will further raise the bar with everything from an Even Guests’ sense of arrival will be heightened, enhanced sushi experience to such new entrees as a thanks to a new, climate-controlled wall of wine that Area 24-hour-braised beef short rib (fork-tender and medium- Food and Beverage Manager Michael Scheifler cited rare) to a holistic duck dish that’ll use the bird’s every among his favorite additions. palatable part. Chef Piasecki described the opportunity to “I’m really excited about this, as it’s going to allow create these and other dishes in a revamped kitchen that’ll us to further expand our great wine offerings,” Michael feature sous-vide water baths, Florida’s only cast-iron- said, referencing a wine program that already features surfaced Plancha grill and other culinary “toys” as being everything from modern California varietals to century-old “like Christmas.” reserves. As the vast majority of the restaurant’s servers Look for the holiday season to arrive early this year, (who will return after their temporary assignments during as plans call for the restaurant to reopen later this summer.

The rendering above showcases the climate-controlled wall of wine that will enhance the restaurant’s wine program and Guests’ sense of arrival. The inset photo finds, from left, Area Food and Beverage Manager Michael Scheifler, Chef de Cuisine Brian Piasecki, and Food and Beverage Operations Manager Dianna Pillow reviewing patterns and materials for the restaurant’s new furnishings and décor.

6 with ken potrock

Ken Potrock didn’t just step into his new role as Senior Vice President and General Manager of Disney Vacation Club and Adventures by Disney…he sailed. Embarking on his first Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise in January before officially joining the Disney Vacation Club Cast family in February, the veteran Disney executive wasted no time in getting to know the Cast and the Members they so proudly serve. Having now settled into his new Celebration, Fla., office, Ken sat down with Rena Langley, Vice President of Public Affairs for Disney Vacation Club, Disney Cruise Line and Adventures by Disney, to share his thoughts about everything from his Member Cruise experience to his professional philosophies to his luck in life.

Rena: You sailed on the Member Cruise literally the day can do as an organization when you have that kind of after your move to your new role was announced. What organizational vibrancy. Of course, one of the reasons was that experience like? this Cast is so passionate is that they had a tremendous leader in my predecessor, Claire Bilby. I’m very, very Ken: I don’t think it could’ve gone better from my grateful for what she’s done prior to me getting here. So perspective. I got the chance to engage with the Cast that’s what I noticed first and foremost – the passion Members, understand the passion of the Members and of the Cast. And that passion then transcends to the begin to see just a little bit of the gigantic opportunity we Members. They were just as passionate on that cruise … have ahead of us. You’d start a conversation with a Member, and by the time you were done, you knew about their family, what they Rena: Tell me more about your impressions of the Cast like to do from a vacation standpoint, and ultimately, you and the Members. started to understand what’s important to them.

Ken: It begins with passion. There was an amazing Rena: You’re known in the company as a big-idea amount of energy and enthusiasm displayed by the Cast guy. Can you tell me a little more about your creative Members on that cruise. There are a lot of things you approach and leadership style?

Ken joins his predecessor, Claire Bilby, aboard the Disney Vacation Club 7 Member Cruise in January. This image from Ken’s personal photo album finds him with his Dad at the ballpark (during one of the many seasons in which their beloved Cleveland Indians failed to win a championship).

Ken: Well I try to be both left-brain and right-brain. One talk about your part of my brain tends to be very creative, and I spark to passion in that a lot of ideas. area. Who are A lot of my developmental process happens because your favorite sports of that creativity. That being said, I also have a very teams? strategic side of my brain that helps me frame up what we’re trying to solve for. The combination of these two Ken: This is another capabilities helps me through a lot of meetings. area that reveals I’ll be in a meeting, throwing idea after idea after that I’m probably idea on the table. Anybody who knows me knows that not that smart. I 99 percent of those are really dumb ideas. But they’re was born in New designed to spark discussion – to get people to think of York, where I other ways to do something. I tend to be someone who should’ve been rooting for the Yankees likes to stir the pot, and I really like it when other people and other winning New York teams. I just wasn’t that do the same. interested. When I was 10 years old, we moved to There’s no limit to where ideas can come from. I Akron, Ohio, and I became a lifelong Cleveland sports expect them to come from everybody in the organization, fan. Through the course of my lifetime, we’ve never won and I don’t expect people to be afraid of that. anything. But I’m still a Cleveland fan across every sport, and I always will be, whether we win or not. I still have Rena: What are your keys to success? hope.

Ken: Have fun. I like to think I’m a fun guy, and I like to Rena: While your sports teams may not win much, rumor have fun at work. I work really hard, but one of the things has it that you have a lucky streak and have won a few I tell my boys – I have two sons; one’s 17 and one’s 11 – prizes in your life. Care to share any stories as is that if you’re passionate about what you do, and your we wrap up? work is something you can pour that passion into, it’s really not work. I think that really characterizes my style. I Ken: I’ll share my favorite one. I was working my first love what I do, I’m excited about the opportunity to work job after college, selling wine in Southern California and with our Cast and our Members, and I want to do that in trying to save money for grad school. I’d been accepted a fun and impactful way. to Northwestern, but I didn’t yet have enough money to enroll. I got a call from my Dad, who said, “Remember Rena: You mention your sons. Can you tell us more about that raffle you entered? You won!” I asked him what your family? I won, and he said, “First prize was $5,000.” I said, “That’s great! I can really use that!” And he answered, Ken: I should probably apologize up front to everyone, “You didn’t win that.” It turns out I’d won the grand prize, because I brag about my family A LOT. I’m very proud of a $100,000 condo in Akron, which we quickly sold. I them. My boys are both much smarter than me, and my quit my job, spent a week on the beach in Venice (Calif.) wife is much more talented than I am. I count myself lucky and was off to Chicago for grad school. So yes, I’ve had every day from a personal perspective. a lot of good fortune in my life, not the least of which is having this job. Rena: You’ve also been fortunate from a professional perspective to lead some very different Disney businesses, including our sports business. Let’s shift gears a bit and community

Formalizing a vision New executive role focuses on the Member experience While delivering unparalleled experiences to Member “Disney Vacation Club is like the proverbial three- families has always been part of the Disney Vacation Club legged stool, built on a foundation of Members, Cast mission, the recent creation of a new executive role further Members and business results,” Shannon told Disney Files formalizes the focus on Members. Magazine. “When we do right by our Members and our The new role, Vice President of Member Experiences Cast, the business results tend to take care of themselves.” and Club Management, is designed to enhance Member So what has Shannon learned about the strength of benefits, offerings and processes, while strengthening those first two “legs” since stepping into his new role? Member-focused collaboration both within the Disney “That they aren’t broken,” he answered. “I have the Vacation Club organization and with other Walt Disney privilege in this role of leading our Member Services and Parks and Resorts businesses. Filling this ambitious role is Club Management teams, which function at very high 15-year Disney veteran Shannon Sakaske. levels. And Members, of course, are a tremendous source The Boston-area native and former competitive golfer of strength. Their passion for this community and their sought warmer weather (and longer golfing seasons) by consistent willingness to share feedback create a roadmap attending Emory University in Atlanta before ultimately for our continued success.” beginning his Disney career in sunny Central Florida. With a diverse Member community that fills seemingly Shannon spent his first Disney decade working in Walt every geographic, demographic and psychographic Disney Parks and Resorts “growth areas,” contributing category, it’s a roadmap with plenty of detours. strategic direction to everything from the development of “Every family vacations differently, so when it comes new resorts (both on land and, in the case of Disney Cruise to elevating the Member experience, there’s no single Line, at sea) to the creation of Adventures by Disney. solution,” Shannon acknowledged. “Our approach is to Having worked in a variety of Disney Vacation Club keep listening and keep developing offerings that are as leadership roles during the past five years, Shannon said diverse as the Members we serve.” he’s excited about focusing so intently on Members. Shannon referenced a wide range of recent enhancements as examples of that diverse approach, from the launch of Member Online Booking to the debut of Member-dedicated accommodations at The Manhattan Club in New York City to the rollout of a Walt Disney Parks and Resorts merchandise discount to the creation of new Member gatherings and Adventures by Disney trips. “My team’s job is to simply help continue the momentum,” Shannon said. “Disney Vacation Club is committed to cultivating what we call ‘organizational vibrancy,’ demanding excellence from our Cast, and leveraging constant creativity and innovation. By listening, inventing, testing and adjusting, we’re developing new ways for Members to interact with us and each other, new ways for families to enjoy their Membership and new reasons for Members to continue seeing Disney Vacation Club as the best vacation decision they ever made.”

Shannon Sakaske, Vice President of Member Experiences and Club Management, mingles with Members aboard the Disney Dream ship during the January 2013 Member Cruise.

9 9 Bringing home more than memories The Hilker family of Ohio, Members since 2005 While returning from vacations as a closer family is in the same day, find yourself in a quiet, rural area that common, returning as a bigger family can make for the makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.” best trip ever. As each trip required a visit to the American That’s been the case twice for NiCole and Chris Hilker Consulate in the far-south city of Guangzhou, and as that of Ohio, Members since 2005, who used their Disney city isn’t far from Hong Kong, the family capped each trip Vacation Club Membership during travels with a Hong Kong Disneyland experience that allowed to China to adopt two of their four children, making the them to begin bonding with, and learning about, their trip first to adopt 21-month-old daughter Lila and later new child. From Lila’s affinity for broccoli (learned in the to adopt 4-year-old son Eli. (Lila and Eli added to a Park’s Mulan-inspired Plaza Inn Cantonese restaurant) to happy family that already included daughter Isabella, Eli’s love of cars (learned at the Autopia attraction), each adopted from Guatemala, and son Corbin, adopted memorable moment was one of discovery. from Vietnam). “We were prepared to spend only minimal time in The family’s weeks-long itinerary included multiple the Park, fearing it would be too overwhelming,” NiCole stops in mainland China, from such iconic sites as the said. “But those fears were quickly set aside, as each Temple of Heaven, the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, child had a blast.” to the places that will forever be near and dear to their Asked if he could imagine a more memorable pair hearts – the provinces in which their adoptions took place. of vacations, Chris didn’t hesitate in saying, “Nothing “Seeing Beijing was amazing,” NiCole told Disney compares to meeting your child, and to then be able to Files Magazine. “There’s just so much history there. It’s start getting to know your child by making memories the cradle of eastern civilization, and the country is so together in the Park is truly special. It just doesn’t get diverse. You can explore a sprawling, towering city and, better than that.”

Lila Eli

Tell us about your best trip ever by mailing a letter to Disney Files Magazine’s “Best Trip Ever,” Disney Vacation Club, 1390 Celebration Blvd., Celebration, FL 34747. Tell us where you traveled with your Membership, what made the trip so memorable and what advice you have for other Members visiting that destination. Include photos if you have them (saving copies for yourself as we won’t return ours), and remember to enclose a completed and signed release form, available for download at www.dvcmember.com/releaseform. Please also tell us your preferred contact information (phone number or email address) and the year your family became Disney Vacation Club Members.

1010 community Member Perks the icing on the cake From bears to breakfast Recently announced merchandise discount applies to groceries

Disney Vacation Club Resorts: What does Duffy the it repeated), this new perk saves Members 10 percent* at Disney Bear have in common with a frozen waffle? There all Disney-owned-and-operated merchandise shops at the are plenty of answers of course, from “both are sweet” to Disneyland Resort; Walt Disney World Resort; Disney’s “both meet Transportation Security Administration carry- Hilton Head Island Resort; Disney’s Vero Beach Resort on guidelines,” but the answer we’re looking for is “both and Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Ko Olina, Hawai‘i. are available to Members at a discount.” As Disney Vacation Club Resort merchandise shops Members have asked if the Walt Disney Parks and just so happen to carry a selection of groceries for villa- Resorts merchandise discount announced in the winter dwelling Members (and as most groceries don’t appear 2012 edition of Disney Files Magazine applies to in the always-captivating fine print at the bottom of this groceries at Disney Vacation Club Resort merchandise story), Members may apply this discount to everything shops, and we’re happy from milk and muffins to soup and soda. While grocery to report that it does, inventory can vary by location, each Disney Vacation indeed. In case you Club Resort offers a range of sweet and savory options missed the original for every meal of the day. So whether you’re looking to announcement (or just feed your family before hitting the Parks, prepare your enjoy hearing own private pizza party or stock up with snacks for the flight home (we don’t judge), the discount has you covered. Members may even pre-order groceries for delivery to their villa on the evening of their arrival, eliminating the trip to the store from their itinerary. (A $10 service charge applies.) To take advantage of this convenient option, simply visit DVCMember.com at least three business days before your trip, click on “Destinations,” then on the name of your Disney Vacation Club Resort, then click “Grocery Orders” under “Quick Links.” It’s there that you’ll find your resort’s grocery list (prices and inventory subject to change), along with instructions for faxing or mailing your order. The Member discount will automatically apply to these orders. To utilize the discount in person, simply present your Member ID and photo ID when checking out at your participating resort’s merchandise shop. Plush or pasta. Books or burritos. Coffee mugs or coffee grounds. The choice – like the discount – is yours.

*Discount is not valid on previous purchases or on purchases of ticket media, gift certificates, Disney Gift Cards, Park Admission, Arcades, Disney Dollars, tobacco, alcohol, Outdoor Vending (e.g., in-Park balloon vendors, glow vendors), Add-a-Dollar (Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund), postage stamps, rentals (e.g., strollers, ECV), personalization, Disney’s PhotoPass Online, framed Disney Dollars, Artist Sketch Program (original art), one-of-a-kind art (consignment), shipping or taxes. A valid photo ID and Disney Vacation Club Member ID must be presented at time of purchase. May not be combined with any other discount, offer or promotion.

11 Coming soon to a theatre (or arena) near you Touring shows offer Member savings

Disney Files Magazine has long been dedicated to Rockin’ Ever After” show detailed in the spring edition delivering your Disney fix between trips, and we take of Disney Files Magazine (Merida, Rapunzel and other great pleasure in knowing we aren’t alone in that mission. Disney stars perform in a high-energy talent show Among our many friends working to deliver Disney orchestrated by Mickey Mouse and friends), a variety of magic to your hometown are those at Feld Entertainment, Disney On Ice shows will be back on tour beginning this who have produced hit touring shows for The Walt Disney September, from “Princesses & Heroes” (in which Disney Company since 1981 with Disney On Ice and, more Princesses, with help from their devoted princes, embark recently, Disney Live! Feld Entertainment is a worldwide on adventures – including an epic clash between Prince leader in producing and presenting live, touring family Philip and Maleficent – to fulfill their fondest wishes) entertainment experiences that lift the human spirit and to “Passport to Adventure” (a “sightseeing holiday” create indelible through the worlds of memories, with The Lion King, The Little 30 million people Mermaid, Peter Pan and attending their shows Lilo & Stitch). around the world Disney Live! each year. shows, meanwhile, are Disney Files heading back out on Magazine is pleased the road beginning in to report that Feld July, bringing Disney Entertainment’s stories to life on stage. Disney On Ice Launched in 2004, and Disney Live! Disney Live! shows productions are deliver Broadway- making a limited quality, interactive- number of seats at theater productions every U.S. show to families around the available to Disney world, often serving Vacation Club as a child’s first live- Members at a theatrical experience. In 20 percent savings North America alone, through Dec. 31, 2013. Members may purchase as they play in more than 130 markets each year. many as six of these tickets per show while supplies last Among the Disney Live! shows on tap for the new by visiting www.disneyonice.com or www.disneylive.com touring season is “Disney’s Phineas and Ferb: The Best and using the code DVC. LIVE Tour Ever!” Scheduled to begin its tour in September, Disney On Ice combines the talents of world-class the hit show finds Phineas, Ferb, Candace, Agent P and professional figure skaters with heartwarming stories, the entire Tri-State Area gang embarking on hilarious innovative set designs, lavish costumes, dazzling lighting hijinks. (Is there any other kind of hijink?) and enchanting music to create extraordinary shows. Also look for an all-new, original Disney Live! Disney On Ice productions have entertained audiences production based on hit Disney Junior programming, in almost 500 cities spanning about 60 countries on including “Sofia the First” and “Jake and the Never Land six continents, including more than 1,300 annual Pirates.” performances in North America alone. Learn more about upcoming touring productions In addition to the hit “Disney On Ice presents online at www.disneyonice.com and www.disneylive.com.

12 community

where Members live

Disney Files Magazine proudly presents photos and stories from Members who have made Disney part of their home decorating. This edition’s spotlight shines on Arthur Nason of New Hampshire, Member since 2010.

In 1975, Arthur’s first Walt Disney World vacation made an immediate impression, captivating his young imagination through the painstaking attention to detail for which Walt Disney Imagineers are famous. “I really took an interest in Adventureland,” Arthur wrote recently to Disney Files Magazine. “As soon as I got home, I started making my room feel like Adventureland. Now 37 years later, I’m still at it…but I have a whole house, not just one room.” All of us at Disney Files Magazine raise a ceremonial Dole Whip to this dedicated adventurer.

Do you have a Disney home? Whether it’s an expansive collection of Disney memorabilia or your own Disney- inspired space, we’d like to see it. Send your photos (keeping copies for yourself as we won’t return ours), along with a letter containing your Member Since year and describing your unique Disney style, to Disney Files Magazine’s “My Disney Home,” Disney Vacation Club, 1390 Celebration Blvd., Celebration, FL 34747. Remember to include a signed release form, available for download and printing online at www.dvcmember.com/ releaseform.

13 Lou & Hy’s Cheesecake In his column on page 2 of this edition of Disney Files Magazine, Ken Potrock, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Disney Vacation Club and Adventures by Disney, shares some of the inspiration he gained in his youth while working at Lou & Hy’s, an Akron, Ohio deli owned by his father, Hy. The deli operated for an impressive 40 years, a run of success Ken attributes to his father’s constant focus on his customers and employees. In tribute to Ken’s Dad and his enduring influence on our community’s new leader,Disney Files Magazine is pleased to share this recipe for Lou & Hy’s cheesecake, as published in a 2003 edition of the Akron Beacon Journal.

Yields: 4 (8-inch) cheesecakes

Crust Ingredients: 4 cups graham cracker crumbs • 10 tablespoons melted butter

Crust steps: 1. Stir and toss crumbs with melted butter. 2. Press equal amounts of the buttered crumbs into the bottoms of four 8- or 8 ½-inch round, spring-form pans. (If you prefer, you can instead make three instead of four, using 9 ½ -, 8 ½- and 7 ½-inch pans.) Set aside.

Cake ingredients:

8 (8 oz.) packages of cream cheese, room temperature 9 eggs 1 ½ cups plus 2 additional tablespoons flour 2 half-pint containers whipping cream 2 ¾ cups plus 2 tablespoons sugar ½ cup powdered sugar ½ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon vanilla 1 pint sour cream 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Cake steps: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. 2. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy (ideally with an electric mixer). 3. Slowly beat in flour, and then sugar. Add salt and sour cream, and beat until smooth, occasionally scraping the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula. 4. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed until each egg is incorporated. 5. Turn off mixer and stir mixture with a rubber spatula to ensure batter is evenly mixed. 6. In another bowl, beat whipping cream until slightly thickened. While beating, slowly add powdered sugar, vanilla and lemon juice. Continue beating until soft peaks form. 7. Pour ¼ of the cream cheese mixture into the bowl with the whipped cream and gently fold with the rubber spatula until incorporated. Add half of the remaining batter and fold again before folding in the remaining batter. 8. Pour batter into your crusts. 9. Bake in oven, using the following times as general guidelines: 40 minutes for a 7 ½-inch cake, 50 minutes for an 8- to 8 ½-inch cake and 60 minutes for a 9 ½-inch cake. 10. Cool to room temperature before refrigerating. 11. When serving, consider topping with cherry, blueberry or pineapple pie filling, along with whipped cream if desired.

1614 neighborhood notes new and newsworthy in our magical community

Aulani, Disney Vacation Club Villas, Ko Olina, Hawai‘i: Here’s a little trip tip for Members looking to explore O‘ahu by car during an Aulani vacation. The resort’s valet hosts and hostesses can give you handy cards listing driving directions to many of the island’s most popular sites, from Iolani Palace to the Waimea Valley to the Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout. Flip each card over, and you’ll even find directions for returning “home” from that location. Just tell the valet where you’re headed and see if your destination is “in the cards.”

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Disney’s Boardwalk entertainment district: Members Spa, Ko Olina, Hawai‘i: and Guests looking for a place to dine as a larger Crews have completed group can do so comfortably in a place called the installation of a trellis Coranation Room. First things first: we know that’s not that has expanded the how you spell coronation. It’s not a typo, but rather a all-weather capacity of reflection of clever nomenclature for the private-dining Makahiki – The Bounty of room at Kouzzina by Cat Cora (it’s Cora’s nation, and the Islands restaurant by we’re just dining in it), where groups of as many as covering portions of its 24 diners can enjoy specially designed three- or four- outdoor seating area. The course dinners complete with wine-pairing options. The enhancement is part of an room is available for reservations after 5 p.m. Sunday- ongoing Aulani-expansion Thursday and after 8:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday. To book project that also includes the room, call (407) 939-2388. the recent move of the nighttime Starlit Hui show Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort: Crews recently to a larger venue, and the refreshed The Big Dipper pool deck with new tables, creation of two new quick- chairs and umbrellas. Meanwhile, the resort’s Tide Me service dining locations Over and Signals dining locations have refreshed their (one of which is open menus with a variety of Low Country flavors, from a now), new water features salted caramel banana bread French toast to a grilled in the resort’s Waikolohe mahi-mahi sandwich to a signature burger topped with Valley, a new retail space cheese, bacon and a fried green tomato. and two additional beach- access points. Plans call Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa: A new, Disney- for the entire project to be owned spa is scheduled to open this summer at Disney’s completed by the end of Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. Announced in the winter September. Nearly all of 2012 edition of Disney Files Magazine, this relaxing the resort’s most popular retreat will share the “Senses” brand of the re-imagined features remain available spa that opened earlier this year at Disney’s Grand as work continues. Floridian Resort & Spa. Watch DVCMember.com for details about the new spa’s opening date.

15 Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts: The newly re- Pool hopping: Whenever you’re using your Membership imagined Ship Shape Massage, Salon and Fitness Center to stay at a Disney Vacation Club Resort at the Walt at Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts now features a Disney World Resort or at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, new-look, full-service salon (with services available for you and any Guests staying with you are permitted to women, men and children); a full circuit of Life Fitness pool hop to other eligible pools if they’re not at capacity. equipment; manicure and pedicure services; massage Due to expected high occupancy, pool hopping isn’t and facial services; and more. Spa experiences include available May 25-28, June 29-July 8, Aug. 30-Sept. robes, lockers, slippers, and a relaxation lounge and 2, Nov. 25-Dec. 1, and Dec. 15, 2013-Jan. 5, 2014. sauna. For details and reservations, call (407) WDW- Pool hopping is never available at Bay Cove Pool at Bay SPAS (939-7727). Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, the pools at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Stormalong Bay at Annual Dues: While paying Annual Dues on Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts, the pool at Disney’s DVCMember.com is one convenient option, it’s not the Beach Club Villas, the pools at Disney’s Art of Animation only one. Members also may set up monthly, automatic Resort or at the Disneyland Resort in California. Further Annual Dues payments from their U.S. checking or saving block-out dates may be added based on capacity issues. account. To do so, fax (to 407-938-4117) or mail (to Full details are available in Portable Perks and online at Disney Vacation Club Member Accounting, P.O. Box www.dvcmember.com. 470727, Celebration, FL 34747) a voided check from your checking account or a deposit slip from your savings account, along with your Member ID or contract number. (For security purposes, emailing is not an option.) Be sure to note whether you would like the debits to occur on the 1st or 15th of each month. There’s no fee for this service. To confirm receipt of your submitted information, call Member Accounting at (800) 800-9800 (or 407-566- 3800) and select option 3.

Facebook: Disney Vacation Club has reached a digital milestone, with more than 100,000 fans now following Member Cruise: As this edition of Disney Files our community on Facebook. Thank you for being part Magazine hits the press, a limited number of of our ever-evolving, news-reporting, tip-sharing, staterooms remain available for the next Disney opinion-polling social network! To join the fun, visit us Vacation Club Member Cruise. The voyage is scheduled at www.facebook.com/disneyvacationclub. to sail on the Disney Dream ship Sept. 29-Oct. 3, 2013, out of Port Canaveral, Fla., with two planned Condo Meeting: The 2013 Disney Vacation Club stops at Disney’s private island paradise, Castaway Condominium Association Meeting is scheduled to take Cay, and an activity-filled day at sea. This signature place on Dec. 12, 2013 at the Walt Disney World Resort. Member event combines all the magic of a Disney Based on the success of the new, condensed format Cruise Line voyage with a wide range of special gifts, introduced last year, plans call for this year’s meeting to shows and experiences created with Members in mind. again focus on core Disney Vacation Club agenda items, The team behind the September 2013 cruise is looking allowing Members to get back to their Walt Disney World to build on the momentum of the January 2013 sailing, vacation as quickly as possible. Watch DVCMember.com which 98 percent of Members rated as “excellent” or for updates and more details as they become available. “very good.” Call Member Services for details.

16 destinations

Bon appétit Epcot opens new France pavilion restaurants

Walt Disney World Resort: There’s just something the resume of this esteemed chef, who also created the about good food that makes us want to speak French. Bocuse d’Or, one of the world’s most prestigious cooking We begin meals with “hors d’oeuvres,” order items “á competitions. la carte,” serve pies “á la mode,” dip sandwiches in Monsieur Paul restaurant’s cuisine upholds “au jus,” prepare potatoes “au gratin” and describe our Bocuse’s longheld belief in offering diners “the freshest ultimate favorites as being the “crème de la crème.” Even ingredients, the perfect temperature and just the right when we take the ultimate culinary shortcut and hit the seasoning.” local drive-through for an order of fries, we can’t help but Among the menu’s savory highlights are the chef’s call them French. world famous “Soupe au Truffles V.G.E.” (a black truffle Further strengthening foodies’ “French connection” soup), the classic lobster á l’Armoricaine and an herb- are two new eateries now open in the France pavilion crusted rack of lamb, while sweet offerings include such at Epcot – Monsieur Paul and les Halles Boulangerie- favorites as the Grand Marnier soufflé and the red berries Pâtisserie. Napoleon. Located upstairs from the popular Chefs de France, For a quicker meal, visit the new les Halles the gourmet Monsieur Paul restaurant features a design Boulangerie-Pâtisserie, located in the back of the pavilion that blends classic French architecture with fresh colors in a space once dedicated entirely to merchandise. While and just a touch of modernism to create an upscale dining the boutique remains open for business, it smells a little experience that’s slightly less formal than Bistro de Paris, more delicious these days, thanks to the on-stage artisan which previously operated in this lofty space. bread-making in the adjacent quick-service café (pictured The restaurant is the latest from famed below). French Chef Paul Bocuse, part of a long Beyond the baguettes, the café’s menu features lineage of cooks dating back to the 17th a decadent array of items for every meal of the day, century. Maintaining three Michelin from French pastries and desserts to hearty soups and stars for 48 straight years, earning the sandwiches to authentic quiches. title of Best French Craftsman in 1961 There’s even a selection of fine wines. After all, “la vie and being named Chef of the Century est trop courte pour boire du vin mauvais.” (That’s French in 2011 are just a few credits on for, “Life’s too short to drink bad wine.”)

les Halles Boulangerie-Pâtisserie

17 Do you have Jack’s back? Artist Rendering – Proposed New Adventureland experience seeks support for Sparrow

Walt Disney World Resort: Ye come seekin’ adventure experience immediately accessible to those who share and salty ol’ pirates, eh? Ye come to the proper place, as that love of Pirates of the Caribbean mythology,” said a new loot-locatin’, buccaneer-battlin’, adventure-seekin’ Jonathan, who revealed that the dark-hearted Blackbeard quest is scheduled to begin recruiting Magic Kingdom and sea goddess Calypso are among the Pirates of the Guests early this summer. Caribbean characters lurking nearby as Guests face Commissioned by Captain Jack Sparrow and their challenges. “Pirates of the Caribbean is my favorite presented in the Park as “A Pirate’s Adventure ~ Treasures Disney attraction ever, so this is a privilege for me.” of the Seven Seas,” this highly interactive experience Just as “Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom” put a new equips Guests with treasure maps and challenges them to twist on the interactive-quest format established in Disney complete five pirate raids through Adventureland locales, Parks by the “Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure” fighting off such foes as the Royal Navy and Captain at Epcot (replaced later by “Agent P’s World Showcase Barbossa along the way. Those who help Captain Jack Adventure”), “A Pirate’s Adventure ~ Treasures of the succeed in all five missions will become part of his crew. Seven Seas” is designed to offer a similarly interactive, “I think most people, at one time or another, wanted but fundamentally unique, experience. to be pirates,” Walt Disney Imagineer Jonathan Ackley “Agent P focuses on mystery and high-tech told Disney Files Magazine. “We want to fire cannons, gadgetry,” Jonathan said as he playfully pointed out unveil the secrets of the deep, defeat supernatural evil some of the adventures’ most obvious differences. “Guests and plunder buried treasure.” feel like they’re using the tools of a secret agent. Sorcerers Jonathan, a lifelong pirate fan whose previous design have no need for high-tech. They just use magic. Pirates, credits include the development of a pirate-themed video of course, don’t cast spells, and they definitely don’t work game, has what he calls, “a soft spot for interactive in law enforcement.” piracy.” (He means that he loves pirate-themed games, Asked what’s next in the interactive pipeline, not the illegal duplication of copyrighted software.) Jonathan channeled Captain Jack both in elusiveness and “Great settings and great characters make this grammar, saying, “That be a story for another day!”

18 The Landing

Disney Springs unveiled Artist Rendering – Proposed Re-imagined Downtown Disney area set for completion in 2016 Walt Disney World Resort: Work is underway attention to detail that goes into our Theme Parks, Resorts on a multi-year transformation of the Downtown Disney and cruise ships, resulting in a welcoming space that only area at the Walt Disney World Resort into Disney Springs, Disney could create.” a unique destination that will feature dramatically Drawing inspiration from Florida’s waterfront towns expanded shopping, dining and entertainment amid and natural beauty, Disney Springs will include four open-air promenades and meandering springs. With outdoor neighborhoods interconnected by a flowing more than 150 establishments upon completion in spring and vibrant lakefront. In addition to a new 2016, Disney Springs will double the number of shops, gateway with a signature water tower and grand entry restaurants and other venues currently available in the (depicted in the rendering below), the destination will Downtown Disney area. feature: An eclectic and contemporary mix of offerings from Disney and other noteworthy brands – from boutique • The Town Center (expanding the area’s shops to unique flagship anchor stores – will help make current footprint between Buena Vista Drive and the this destination unlike any currently available in Central property known today as Pleasure Island), which will offer Florida. a sophisticated mix of shopping and dining along with a “Disney Springs will be a timeless, vibrant place relaxing promenade where Walt Disney World Guests and local residents can relax, shop, dine and be entertained in an imaginative • A colorful and thriving commercial district setting where they’ll instantly feel at home,” said Tom called The Landing (located in the area known today Staggs, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. as Pleasure Island) with inspired dining and beautiful “Featuring distinctive brands, world-class restaurants waterfront views and unforgettable entertainment, Disney Springs will be brought to life with the same focus on storytelling and • The family-friendly Marketplace that will combine new experiences, such as an over-the-water pedestrian causeway, along with classic Disney favorites, including an expanded World of Disney store

• A West Side that will offer lively entertainment, along with a series of new elevated spaces that provide both shade and an overlook to the activity below

Scale model Watch Disney Files Magazine for updates as new details become available.

19 The time of our lives Disney survey examines “quality time”

The recent Disney Time Survey, commissioned by Disney Parks and conducted by leading research firm Kelton, surveyed more than 1,000 parents of children ages 5-17 to learn more about how they think about quality time at home and on vacation. Among the survey’s quality-time findings was a striking definition of the term. About 91 percent of surveyed parents said quality time is achieved when they learn something new about their child. As surveyed parents reported enjoying dramatically more of that quality time on vacation than they do at home, we asked our Facebook fans to tell us the best thing they’ve ever learned about their kids while on vacation. Here are just a few of the responses.

• That they don’t get dizzy on teacups • That my son, 7, had a girlfriend • That they really do enjoy each other’s company – even though they’re siblings • That my 7-year-old son can roast a marshmallow to perfection • That my shy child with Down syndrome will dance in a parade • That my 4-, 6- and 9-year old were more excited about the (22-month-old) “baby” experiencing Disney than any activity that they wanted to do • That they’re funnier than I thought • That they actually like spending time with us • That my 3-year-old can swim like a fish • That my son wants to be an entertainer • That my 2-year-old can read (discovered as the young child read maps and menus aloud) • How polite they are to complete strangers • How much alike we are

While our favorite response didn’t initially strike us as positive, its Hollywood ending made us smile. Posted by a grateful Mom, the memory involved placing a pirate eye patch on her young son, who immediately said he couldn’t see. A visit to the doctor upon returning home revealed that the child was indeed blind in one eye. Catching it early allowed doctors to reverse the condition. “I will forever hold Disney in my heart for that,” she posted. To participate in future polls, and get the latest neighborhood news, trip tips and more, follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/disneyvacationclub.

20 destinations BUZZWORTHY 8 stories • 2 pages • 1 space ranger

Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts: The Disneyland Resort: The wise sorcerer Yen Sid (famous for popular and ever-evolving Disney Junior – Live on his backward-Disney name and his breakout role in the Stage! show at Disney California Adventure Park and 1940 animated classic Fantasia) tells of a wondrous map Disney’s Hollywood Studios recently debuted its latest with the power to take dreamers to any place imaginable. update, welcoming characters from “Doc McStuffins” But when young apprentice Mickey Mouse tries to paint (pictured below) and “Sofia the First” to the soundstage. the map’s lone unfinished spot, the map comes alive, “Doc McStuffins,” which in its first season became cable taking Mickey on a musical journey through Adventure television’s top show for kids ages 2-5, stars a young girl Islands, Dream Village, Celebration Peaks and Friendship who provides expert medical care for her beloved toys. Woods. That’s the colorful premise behind “Mickey and “Sofia the First” is the new series based on last year’s the Magical Map,” a new stage production scheduled hour-long special “Sofia the First: Once Upon a Princess,” to debut in the Fantasyland Theatre at Disneyland Park which was the month’s top telecast for preschoolers. by early this summer. While Other hit Disney Junior TV series represented in the the show’s 24 performers preschool-friendly Theme Park production include (including a live trumpeter), “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse” and “Jake and the Never cutting-edge technology and Land Pirates.” envelope-pushing effects are generating plenty of buzz within the production’s creative- development team, director Tracy Halas told Disney Files Magazine she’s most excited about Mickey’s role in the 22-minute show. “This isn’t one of the stoic, master-of- ceremonies-type roles we’ve seen Mickey perform in recent years,” she said. “It’s a return to his well-intentioned, mischievous roots.”

Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts: Things have gotten a bit hairy at the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, where Scare Students Mike and Sulley of the new Disney∙Pixar filmMonsters University are scaring up extra fun all season long as part of Disney Parks’ “Monstrous Summer.” From enhanced Disney California Adventure parade floats and the “eye”-catching “Monsterail” traveling the Walt Disney World Resort’s highway in the sky to new monster merchandise and a veritable closet full of “Limited Time Magic,” look for plenty of monstrous surprises in the Parks this summer.

21 Walt Disney World Resort: Characters are on the move at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, with plans to settle into new meet-and-greet locations by early this summer. Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will greet Guests in a new, indoor (and climate-controlled!) venue Walt Disney World Resort: The Animal Care team called Adventurers Outpost in the Discovery Island area recently added springbok to the diverse population of at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Daisy Duck antelope species on the Kilimanjaro Safaris savanna at will join Donald Duck at the Discovery Island Character Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Landing, and Winnie the Pooh and Tigger will move to The six adult females and one young male calf the Camp Minnie-Mickey area. join the more than 300 animals on the savanna, where addax, bontebok, bongo, eland, greater kudu, sable Walt Disney World Resort: Barnabas T. Bullion, founder antelope, scimitar-horned oryx and white-bearded and president of the Big Thunder Mining Company, is wildebeest species are among the springbok’s antelope at the heart of the story Walt Disney Imagineers are relatives on display. telling in a new, interactive queue at the iconic Big Here are a few springbok facts to help you maintain Thunder Mountain Railroad attraction at the Magic your status as the smartest explorer in the vehicle during Kingdom Park. Scheduled to have debuted by the time your next safari adventure. this magazine mails, the experience builds on Disney Parks’ commitment to turning queues into dynamic • The name “springbok” combines the Afrikaans and “first scenes,” making getting there part of the fun. The Dutch words for “jump” and “antelope” or “goat.” mountain’s Mining Office and Explosives Magazine Room are among the places Guests will visit before • Male springbok are larger than females, and have boarding their runaway train. To learn more, use your thicker, longer horns. The animals generally range in smart phone’s QR code reader height from 2-3 feet at the shoulder and typically weigh to scan this box, which will between 70 and 100 pounds. link you to a behind-the-scenes video. If you don’t • Springbok can survive for years without drinking have a smart phone, visit water, as they get the water they need from the food www.youtube.com and they eat. search for “Imagineer Tour Big Thunder.” • When frightened by potential predators, a springbok opens a fold of lighter-colored skin along its Walt Disney World Resort: Dr. Anne Savage, back, displaying the hair like a crest. Conservation Director for Disney’s Animal Programs and Environmental Sciences, and a longtime friend to • “Pronking” is a common springbok excitement Disney Files Magazine, hosts an insightful new nature behavior that involves springing up repeatedly with film now playing in Conservation Station, part of Rafiki’s legs stiff and close together, hooves bunched and back Planet Watch at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. arched to show off the aforementioned crest of hair. Presented in four segments, the film spotlights ongoing efforts to protect everything from gorillas and elephants • Habitat destruction and overhunting are leading to tigers and tamarins, including a project through which threats to the survival of springbok in the wild. The Disney’s Animal Programs partners with Disney Cruise Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund is among the Line to help protect coral reefs in The Bahamas. organizations working to protect these animals.

22 page

D23 Expo tickets available now Anaheim Convention Center to host ‘The Ultimate Disney Fan Event’ Aug. 9-11

All the magic and excitement of the past, present and future of Disney entertainment will come together once Unlock the Magic of D23 again when D23 – The Official Disney Fan Club presents an all-new D23 Expo at the Anaheim Convention Center D23 – The Official Disney Fan Club has created Aug. 9-11, 2013. a new, complimentary D23 Membership level that Planned highlights for the upcoming event include gives fans access to insider Disney news, merchandise the 2013 Disney Legends Ceremony, which honors the and more. Registration for this complimentary D23 talented men and women who have made significant Membership level is scheduled to launch online at contributions to the Disney legacy; a Treasures of the Walt www.D23.com sometime in June. Disney Archives exhibit; a fan-art gallery celebrating the 50th anniversary of Mary Poppins; a D23 Expo Dream Store offering a wide range of unique items, including D23 Expo-exclusive merchandise. The event also will expand capacities at some of its most popular venues, including a 2,000-seat overflow theater in which fans can view live broadcasts of filled-to-capacity events taking place in the nearby D23 Expo Arena, and an expanded Collectors Forum, where fans can buy, sell and trade Disney collectibles, memorabilia and merchandise. D23 Expo tickets are available now at online at D23Expo.com. While the event is open to the general public, D23 Members receive special pricing on both one- and three-day tickets to the event.

July 30, 1998: Disney Cruise Line sets This summer marks the milestone 15th anniversary of Disney Cruise Line, which brought an unprecedented level of family entertainment to the cruise industry with the maiden voyage of the Disney Magic ship out of Port Canaveral, Fla., on July 30, 1998. That voyage also marked the official debut of Disney’s private island paradise, Castaway Cay. While Disney purchased the island formerly known as Gorda Cay in 1996, the company’s connection to the island actually dates back to the Academy Award-nominated 1984 filmSplash , in which Tom Hanks’ Allen Bauer meets Daryl Hannah’s mermaid alter-ego, Madison, on a Gorda Cay beach. Walt Disney Imagineers have designed all four Disney Cruise Line ships to be “modern classics,” blending contemporary luxuries with nostalgic touches that evoke the glamour and beauty of ocean travel’s golden age. An innovator since its inception, Disney Cruise Line has introduced a wide range of cruise-industry firsts, from rotational dining and Magical Portholes to shipboard water coasters and fireworks displays at sea.

23 ANSWERS: (1) the bag on the far left is missing its dashed line, (2) the person carrying the bags is now wearing nail polish, (3) one of the bag handles around the person’s wrist is missing, (4) the yellow bag is missing one of its design elements, (5) the striped bag at the far

right is missing its zipper, (6) that same bag is now shorter and (7) the beach at the bottom of the photo has disappeared into the sea.

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Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, one of the many picturesque locations Members may visit visit may Members locations picturesque many the of one Mexico, Vallarta, Puerto

to spot the seven things we’ve altered in this colorful photo shot on the shores of of shores the on shot photo colorful this in altered we’ve things seven the spot to

Disney Files Disney Magazine celebrates the return of beach season by challenging you you challenging by season beach of return the celebrates Magazine picture this picture Walt Disney: Storyteller

By Jim Korkis Walt gave a revealing answer. “The first thing a good story man should have is a To call Walt Disney a good storyteller is a bit like good memory,” Walt said. “A good story man never calling Michael Jordan a good ballplayer. Walt was forgets a situation. Everything should be related to human among the most influential storytellers in history. experience in storytelling. An incident that happened to As this edition of Disney Files Magazine shares the you years ago might be usable in a cartoon sequence.” great examples of the enduring storytelling traditions of That commitment to storytelling was a game-changer The Walt Disney Company, I thought I’d take a nostalgic in animation. Before Walt’s entry into the medium, look at the storytelling legacy of the man who paved the animated cartoons were largely platforms for odd and way. It’s a legacy revealed not only in Walt’s creations, seemingly interchangeable characters to perform a string but also in his conversations. of unrelated gags, giving theatergoers a little mindless fun “In the early days, when we were making animated before their meatier feature presentation. shorts, Walt was driving through town and was stopped Walt took a decidedly different approach, creating by a cop, who gave him a ticket,” recalled Disney Legend cartoons grounded in clear, strong stories with distinctive Ben Sharpsteen, who directed many of the earliest Disney and appealing characters, often drawing inspiration from cartoons. “He returned to the studio and told us about it. live-action films. (Charlie Chaplin films were reportedly He reenacted his conversation with the cop in a way that among those frequently providing inspiration.) This fresh revealed he did not think it was very funny. Each time he approach helped turn a once-novel medium into a true told the story, however, it became funnier, and his attitude art form. changed. Parts of the story were added and others Always innovating, Walt soon helped develop the eliminated. One of Walt’s strengths was not just creating practice of storyboarding, still used today by those a story but editing it, refining it. And before we knew it, creating everything from television shows to feature films we were starting a Mickey Mouse picture called ‘Traffic to theme park attractions. Individual drawings displayed Troubles’ (1931) that turned out pretty good.” on boards give clear story direction to everyone on the Asked by a reporter to share the project, breaking stories into key moments like the pages secret to being a good storyteller, of a comic book. Walt Disney: Storyteller

“Our story men started as artists,” Walt said when throughout his life, telling – and retelling – stories to new asked how he developed the idea. “They think in terms of audiences, and making changes accordingly. pictures. That’s how we tell our stories; not with words.” One man who literally called Walt “Uncle” was Walt also believed in telling stories through music, Disney Legend Roy E. Disney, who fondly remembered using songs not just as lyrical breaks from the story, being among the test audiences. but to actually move the plot forward. While many “I was getting over the chicken pox,” Roy said. “This historians credit Oklahoma with bringing this approach to was probably 1938 or ’39, not long after Snow White. Broadway musicals in 1943, Walt used the technique on Walt and Lilly came over for dinner, and he came up to my the silver screen in 1937 with Snow White and the Seven room just to say, ‘Hi.’ He sat down on the edge of my bed Dwarfs. and said, ‘You know, we’re working on this new story, and Whatever technique he employed, Walt knew that I want to tell you about it.’ He told me the whole story of every Disney story needed to share some key ingredients. Pinocchio. I’ll bet he was there for 30 minutes acting out all “I look for a story with heart,” Walt shared with the parts, like he usually did. Then when the picture came writer Bob Thomas in the late 1950s. “It should be a out, it was a huge letdown to me...nowhere near as good simple story with characters the audience really can care as his personal version of it.” about. Besides heart, the story should be understandable Beyond the screen, Walt’s belief in story drove his in any country. The exception was Lady and the Tramp decision to develop his Disneyland dream as a theme (1955), which was very American. But [even] there you park, and not an amusement park. A theme, after all, is have dogs, and they’re international.” about story. Measuring a story’s ability to deliver on those ideals “Walt knew what Main Street was to look like,” said often started with the initial pitch, with Walt telling the Imagineer and Disney Legend John Hench. “He could story to his artists, or even to members of his family. visualize it just like any other story we ever did. He On the night of Oct. 30, 1934, for example, Walt envisioned it just like a movie. Main Street, U.S.A., was to gathered his artists together in a semicircle on an empty be ‘Scene One’ in the audience’s experience and would soundstage at the Hyperion Studio and told them the story set the tone.” of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. This particular From there, Guests served as actors on the set, pitch was of critical importance, as it had to convince his becoming part of the story. Just as they do today, Guests staff that creating the world’s first full-length animated back in 1955 explored detailed, far-off worlds, where feature was a good idea. every detail was designed to support the story. “He told us the entire story in three hours,” So it’s no surprise that, when Imagineers set out to remembered artist and Disney Legend Ken Anderson. create a bronze statue of Walt and Mickey to place on “We were spellbound. He acted the whole thing out. He the new Buena Vista Street at Disney California Adventure would become the Queen. He would become each of the Park, they titled the piece “Storytellers.” Dwarfs. He so thrilled us with the story that we were just If an interview I uncovered while researching my carried away. We came away from that meeting knowing book The Revised Vault of Walt is any indication, Walt that it could be done, even though no one else had ever would’ve appreciated that decision. done it. To this day, I tell people that he told it better than “I’m a storyteller,” Walt said in the interview, we could ever get it on the screen.” conducted late in his life. “Of all the things I’ve ever done, “Uncle Walt” employed that method brilliantly I’d like to be remembered as a storyteller.”

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Summer school Monsters University opening in U.S. theaters on June 21

Every fan of Disney∙Pixar’s 2001 hit Monsters, Inc., design and architecture to their cultures and students. knows that Mike Wazowski and James P. “Sulley” Sullivan Finding inspiration in collegiate commonalities allowed are an inseparable pair. But that wasn’t always the case. the filmmakers to create a Monsters University campus Welcome to Monsters University, the highly that looks universally familiar…with a few important anticipated Disney∙Pixar film that will reveal how these adjustments. two mismatched monsters went from campus competitors “The team had a lot of fun ‘monsterizing’ the who couldn’t stand each other to best friends who campus,” Dan explained. “We added horns and fangs worked together to bring new energy to the citizens of and even faces to some of the buildings, creating a place Monstropolis. that, while familiar, would be very specific to this monster Opening in U.S. theaters on June 21 (including select world.” theaters in Disney Digital 3D) and reuniting an all-star Of course, while relatable places help make Pixar voice cast that includes Billy Crystal as Mike and John productions believable, relatable characters help make Goodman as Sulley, the film takes an in-depth – and them memorable. hilarious – look at a university that for centuries has been “Mike Wazowski is really the heart of this film,” Dan committed to “the relentless pursuit of monster potential.” said. “He was a wild and crazy guy in Monsters, Inc., Directing the film was a dream come true for Dan and he is in this film as well. But you’ll also get to see his Scanlon, who was a Pixar fan long before he was a softer side – a more vulnerable Mike, who’s youthful and Pixar artist. excited and passionate about his dream.” “In my first month at Pixar, I got to attend the wrap Spoken like a filmmaker who knows a thing or two party for Monsters, Inc., so that film has always been about pursuing a dream. really special to me,” Dan told Disney Files Magazine. “And if you’ve ever seen the Pixar campus, you know that it’s a magical place that looks a bit like the world in that film. I felt like I actually worked at Monsters, Inc. To now not only be directing my first Pixar movie but to be telling a new story through characters from the Monsters world is such an honor.” That new story is one that grew from a shared affinity for the original film and a desire to explore its central relationship. “What our team loved so much about Monsters, Inc., was the relationship between Mike and Sulley,” Dan said. “It was obvious that these characters had known each other for a long time, and we loved the idea of telling the story of how they met. What brought us to the university setting was the fact that college is such a time of self- discovery. It gave us the perfect place to meet these guys and to allow them to have flaws. And frankly, we’d never done a college movie, and the idea just felt really, really fun.” With that setting in mind, the team renewed a Pixar tradition of research trips, visiting universities across the country to study everything from the campuses’

2721 At home on the range The Lone Ranger reunites filmmaking ‘family’ in wild West

Sand storms. Rain showers. Wildfires. Even a so this project really brings me back to my youth,” blizzard. Just another day at the office for Jerry Bruckheimer said. “It’s such a beloved franchise, and we Bruckheimer. felt we could kind of re-invent the mythology and tell a “You want to be out in those elements,” producer really great story.” Jerry Bruckheimer told Disney Files Magazine of the That story follows the adventures of Native American conditions on the Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and spirit warrior Tonto (Johnny Depp) and lawman (Lone Utah sets of The Lone Ranger. “It’s all part of making a Ranger) John Reid (Armie Hammer), two unlikely heroes Western.” brought together by fate and faced with a battle against Benefitting from the talents of such renowned greed and corruption. Tonto represents one of the film’s screenwriters as Justin Haythe (Snitch) and Pirates of the boldest “re-inventions,” moving out of the ranger’s Caribbean scribes Ted Elliott and Terry Rossio, The Lone shadows and into a more dynamic role. Ranger is the latest in a celebrated string of rugged epics “Tonto was more of a servant to the Lone Ranger in the for Bruckheimer, whose resume includes such location- series,” Bruckheimer recalled. “The Tonto in our film very heavy productions as TV’s “The Amazing Race” and the much has a mind of his own. It’s really an ‘odd couple’ aforementioned Pirates of the Caribbean film saga. relationship, with Tonto being the wise one who knows the “There’s nothing like being in real environments,” ways of the West, and John Reid coming from back East, he told us, noting that instead of filming runaway train where he went to law school and became a prosecutor. sequences in front of a green screen or animating them Tonto is a pragmatist and John is more of a dreamer, with in a computer, The Lone Ranger crew built two full-size visions of bringing justice to a lawless land.” locomotives and a five-mile oval of actual railroad track to Johnny Depp, director and producer Gore Verbinski, allow for continuous shooting in an Albuquerque desert. and screenwriters Ted Elliott and Terry Rossio are just a Trains and tracks were only the beginning, as crews few of the Pirates of the Caribbean alumni who reunited constructed an entire Western town in that desert, further for The Lone Ranger. reinforcing the team’s commitment to one of cinema’s “If you’ve ever gone to summer camp when you were most storied genres. a kid, you know that you create these relationships and “Westerns celebrate the growth of our country,” then everybody goes back to their Bruckheimer said. “We love the excitement lives, and you can only hope that of exploration … and even the you see them again,” Bruckheimer lawlessness.” said. “That was the case with Equally storied is the Lone the Pirates movies. We became Ranger himself, a character that like family, and we were premiered on radio in the 1930s fortunate to have another great (debuting in Bruckheimer’s homecoming with this film.” hometown of Detroit, Mich.) Look for the results of this before becoming a 1950s TV happy homecoming when phenomenon on ABC. Disney/Bruckheimer Films’ “I was a fan of the The Lone Ranger opens in television show as a kid, U.S. theaters on July 3. photofinish

1. Young Gillian, part of the O’Malley family of New Jersey, Members since 2002, isn’t sure what to make of the Mouse.

2. A confused Sean, part of the Ryan family of Maryland, Members since 2005, doesn’t get the joke as Winnie the Pooh and Tigger mimic the pose on the back of his sweatshirt. (They eventually turned around.)

3. One of these boys answers to a cricket. The 1 other is Spencer, part of the Ryan family of California, Members since 2009.

4. The Animation Academy at Disney’s Hollywood Studios almost holds the attention of Zack, part of the Schlein family of New Jersey, Members since 2000.

5. Like Gaston, every last inch of Millee the dog (part of the O’Donnell family of Illinois, Members since 2004) is covered with hair.

6. Steven Sellers of Utah, Member since 2008, unwinds in Dubai.

Send your photos (keeping copies for yourself as we won’t return ours) to Disney Files Magazine, Disney Vacation Club, 1390 Celebration Blvd., Celebration, FL 34747. Remember to include your name, hometown and “Member Since” year, along with a signed release form for each person pictured. The form is available online at www.dvcmember. com/releaseform.

Better your chances of seeing your family in the magazine by capturing compelling, candid moments, which almost always beat posed photos. We do, however, enjoy when you pose with the magazine, particularly when you do so in exotic locations beyond the Disney Parks.

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5 6 Inspired by our feature story about the African Cultural Representatives who share stories and insights from their homeland with Members and Guests at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas, Disney Design Group Principal Character Artist Brian Blackmore created this edition’s striking cover art. Brian, whose expansive portfolio includes character-art designs for Disney Parks, Disney Cruise Line, Walt Disney Imagineering and an impressive array of Disney fine-art and merchandise items, has captivated Member families through interactive art experiences aboard the past two Member Cruise voyages. “I’ve truly enjoyed my experiences with Members on the ship, and I’m thrilled to have this opportunity to reach even more of these wonderful Disney fans through Disney Files Magazine,” Brian said. “The artwork on this cover was a great deal of fun to develop, as it’s all about storytelling, which is at the heart of everything we do at Disney.”

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