Massive Change in Leadership Announced for the Walt Disney Company

Posted on October 23, 2023October 23, 2023 by Mathew Corn Uncategorized

A massive change in leadership has just taken place at the Walt Disney Company.

Disney, the beloved entertainment company known for its magical stories, has recently appointed Tinisha Agramonte as its Chief Diversity Officer. This is a significant step towards fostering an inclusive and equitable environment within the organization. With her extensive expertise and experience in the diversity and inclusion space, Agramonte is well-equipped to lead Disney’s efforts in creating a welcoming environment for employees from all backgrounds.

As the Chief Diversity Officer, Agramonte will play a crucial role in developing and implementing strategies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) throughout the company. This appointment showcases Disney’s commitment to cultivating a diverse workforce and ensuring equitable access to opportunities for all its employees.

Agramonte’s appointment comes at a time when organizations across various industries are recognizing the importance of DEI in creating successful and sustainable environments. By leveraging her vast knowledge and understanding of diversity issues, she will work towards strengthening Disney’s position as a leader in fostering inclusivity and representing a wide range of voices and experiences.

Having served in DEI positions in the past, Agramonte brings a wealth of experience in driving DEI initiatives. Her deep understanding of the importance of DEI in creating impactful storytelling will undoubtedly contribute to the expansion of Disney’s creative and cultural reach. Through her leadership, Agramonte will ensure that Disney’s content continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, showcasing the collective strengths of diverse talent.

Just last year, Agranonte joined the Walt Disney Company as vice president of DEI talent outreach & development for the Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products division. Her success in this role made her a perfect fit for this promotion.

She will replace Latondra Newton, who left the position in June.

Furthermore, Agramonte’s appointment aligns with Disney’s commitment to social responsibility and community engagement. By championing diversity and inclusion, Disney aims to not only reflect the diverse experiences of its audience but also set an example for other organizations in the entertainment industry.

In her role as Chief Diversity Officer, Agramonte will collaborate with various departments across Disney, including the senior leadership team, human resources, and talent outreach. Together, they will work towards fostering environments that prioritize diversity and inclusion, which will ultimately contribute to the continued success of the company.

This appointment highlights the importance of diversity in senior leadership positions. By appointing Agramonte as the Chief Diversity Officer, Disney demonstrates its dedication to creating a more inclusive workplace from top to bottom. Agramonte’s expertise and commitment to equity will undoubtedly drive positive change within the organization, making Disney an even more welcoming and diverse company.

Disney’s Blizzard Beach: A Frosty Oasis in the Florida Sun

Posted on October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

In the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park offers visitors a whimsical and thrilling escape from the heat. With its unique story, winter wonderland ambiance, and a mix of exhilarating water attractions, Blizzard Beach provides a refreshing and entertaining adventure for all ages.

Blizzard Beach’s imaginative backstory centers around a freak snowstorm that hit the area, creating a mountainous landscape and transforming the area into a winter paradise. The park’s design incorporates elements such as melting snow, ski lifts, and frosty décor to immerse visitors in this charming winter setting.

Blizzard Beach offers a wide variety of water attractions suitable for visitors of all ages and levels of bravery. Here are some of the park’s most popular offerings:

Summit Plummet: This iconic waterslide features one of the tallest and fastest free-fall body slides in the world, providing an exhilarating experience for thrill-seekers.
Teamboat Springs: A family-friendly raft ride that accommodates up to six riders, offering a winding, high-speed adventure through the snow-capped mountain.
Toboggan Racers: A racing slide where guests can race against each other in side-by-side lanes, experiencing a friendly competition.
Melt-Away Bay: The park’s scenic wave pool, where visitors can relax in the gently rolling waves or sunbathe on the sandy shores.
Cross Country Creek: A relaxing lazy river that takes guests on a leisurely journey around the water park, allowing them to enjoy the snowy landscape and lush surroundings.

In addition to its thrilling water attractions, Blizzard Beach offers lessons for skiing and snowboarding on a practice slope designed for beginners. The park’s mini ski resort gives visitors the unique opportunity to learn or practice these winter sports in a Florida water park.

Blizzard Beach provides guests with live entertainment, including dance parties, water games, and opportunities to meet beloved Disney characters who appear in their winter-themed attire. These interactions add a touch of Disney magic and make for memorable moments during your visit.

Visitors to Blizzard Beach have access to amenities like rental lockers, towels, beach chairs, and umbrellas. Dining options include quick-service locations offering a variety of snacks, sandwiches, and refreshing beverages. Lottawatta Lodge, the park’s main restaurant, serves up a mix of delicious meals to fuel your day of fun.

For those looking to relax, Blizzard Beach offers plenty of options. The white sandy beaches surrounding the wave pool and lagoon provide excellent spots to soak up the sun or find some shade under an umbrella. The park also offers private Polar Patios, which come with a personal attendant, food delivery, and reserved seating for an elevated VIP experience.

Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park is a frosty oasis that offers a refreshing and entertaining escape from the Florida sun. Whether you’re seeking thrilling water slides, relaxation by the wave pool, or encounters with beloved Disney characters, Blizzard Beach has something for everyone. With its imaginative backstory, thematic design, and a wide range of attractions, Blizzard Beach promises to create cherished memories for visitors of all ages. So, pack your swimwear, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure, and prepare to chill out at Blizzard Beach during your Walt Disney World vacation.

Bizarre Rant From Banned Disney Passholder Makes Waves Online

Posted on October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

One thing is true: Disney sure does attract a variety of people. Many people say that there is something for every kind of Guest at the Disney Parks and Resorts, and for this reason, every kind of person can be found on Disney property. To maintain order for all Guests, both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort have a strict but clear set of rules and guidelines that they enforce at all times. When a rule is broken, Disney is known to swiftly implement appropriate punishments for the Guests in the wrong.

Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Park is enveloped in golden accents and pixie dust as though it has been magically enchanted. Here, guests can explore winding passageways where the epic tale of Princess Aurora is told through spellbinding dioramas. Inspired by the film’s original Eyvind Earle artwork, this iconic attraction features 3-dimensional displays, sound and stunning special effects. The climactic final scene features Maleficent’s transformation into a fire-breathing dragon. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)

One Guest has gained the attention of Disney fans online after posting a rant about being banned from Disney. Clearly, the public reaction to this fan’s story was not what the Guest had hoped…

Disney strives to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all its Guests, and when someone’s behavior becomes disruptive or goes against the Park rules, appropriate action is taken. In the case of one Disney Magic Key holder, their Park privileges were stripped from them after they broke a major safety rule.

Being banned at Disney may come as a shock to some, but it serves as a reminder that even the ‘Happiest Place on Earth’ has its limits. Disney takes Guest safety and comfort seriously, and their dedication to maintaining a wholesome and family-friendly environment is evident.

One can only imagine what kind of actions would warrant a ban from Disney. Oftentimes, reasons for a ban could be as extreme as physical altercations or verbal abuse towards Disney Cast Members or other Guests. Other reasons could involve illegal activities, such as attempting to sneak into restricted areas or vandalizing Park property. Disney makes its rules very clear when you are in the Parks, so to break one, you usually would have to go out of your way to be naughty.

It’s important to note that being banned from Disney is not a temporary inconvenience. Disney takes these matters seriously, and a ban typically extends beyond a single trip or visit. The length of the ban is determined by the severity of the offense committed. This serves as a deterrent to ensure that individuals think twice before engaging in inappropriate behavior or breaking the park rules.

One Guest took to Disneyland Resort’s Reddit page to share their irritation over being banned. According to the Disney Park Guest, they were banned by a Cast Member because they unbuckled their seatbelt while riding Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout! Not only is this “trend” extremely dangerous, but it also clearly goes against a Park rule. After the incident, the Guests was reportedly escorted out by Disney security.

As punishment for their actions, this Disney fan will be restricted from using their Magic Key Annual Pass for an entire year. While this Guest thinks this punishment is too severe, many fellow Guests in the comments are surprised Disney was not more strict. The post reads:

Disneyland is way to harsh

i have been a annual holder for almost 10 years now been going once every weekend 48 times a year for 10 years never had any problom never did anything wrong never broke any rules never had any violations the one time this was this weekend i did the seatbelt thing on guardians they took me off the ride and revocked my pass was walked out by security was trespased for the night i am aware now that was very wrong for me i have realised what i did was horribly wrong i would never do anything like this ever again but they have revoked my pass for a year now over all this they are still making me pay my monthly payments for this pass even though that i am not able to go i understand what i did was stupid but i think that this is very wrong this is to harsh of them to do this is my first offense and i get banned for a year 10 years i have been going and this is how they treat a loyal customer after doing one wrong thing i think what would be fair is give me a warning and the next time you do it you get banned for a year i am very sad about what has happend and that i will still be making payments for a pass that i cant even use, once again i am aware that i have done somnething wrong i just want your opinions on whether this is too harsh or ok.

While it may seem harsh to some, Disney has a responsibility to prioritize the safety and well-being of its Disney theme park Guests and Cast Members. By enforcing strict rules and consequences, they uphold their commitment to creating a positive and magical experience for all. It also sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated and that Disney is committed to maintaining the integrity of its brand.

Disney’s ‘Encanto’ Takes Over ABC’s ‘Dancing With the Stars’

Posted on October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 by Mathew Corn Uncategorized

Disney’s Encanto took over Dancing With the Stars, and Guests were left in tears. Last night, October 17, 2013, ABC’s hit television show Dancing With the Stars celebrated Disney’s 100th anniversary with a special tribute.

Disney 100

On October 16, 2023, the Walt Disney Company celebrated 100 years of entertainment, storytelling, and magic. Throughout Disney Parks and entertainment, huge celebrations have been entertaining Guests. Celebrations have stretched across the globe from Disneyland in Anaheim, California, to Shanghai Disneyland and everywhere in between.

Once Upon a Studio was released on Disney+ and Hulu as one of the most notable Disney 100 tributes. This Disney short film celebrates 100 years of Walt Disney Studios Animation and storytelling. The 13-minute film encapsulates the magic, featuring 543 Disney characters from over 85 feature-length and short films released over the past 100 years.

Across the Disney Parks, Guests have experienced once-in-a-lifetime celebrations for Disney’s 100th anniversary. In Disneyland Paris, Guests cheered as 100 Disney characters, and Disney VoluntEARS paraded down Main Street, U.S.A. Even Disney entertainment is celebrating, as celebrated films, including Moana and The Lion King, are back in select theaters for a limited time to celebrate the anniversary.

Dancing With the Stars Celebrates Disney 100

Last night on ABC, Dancing With the Stars celebrated Disney’s centenary with Disney 100 Night. The episode featured Disney-inspired dances and a special showcase featuring Encanto, that left fans speechless. The showcase also unveiled Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 Disney 100 Platinum Edition.

Starting out, some audience members weren’t quite sure if they were watching a dance or a commercial for the Hyundai Ioniq 5. After entering the Hyundai, iconic Disney characters joined the dancers, including Tinkerbell, Peter Pan, Wendy, Aladdin, Princess Jasmine, and even Sorcerer Mickey himself!

Once the stars arrived on the Dancing With the Stars stage, Guests were instantly thrilled when they heard the recognizable start to “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” from Disney’s Encanto. The dancer’s beautiful dresses referenced the traditional Columbian clothing worn by the films characters Mirabel, Isabella, Luisa, and more. Additionally, many dancers donned Bruno’s green poncho as a note to the Encanto character’s iconic look.

In addition to the beautiful costumes and set design, the dance even featured Bruno giving a prophesy. But you may be wondering, how do we avoid talking about Bruno with the show’s infamous judge Bruno Tonioli on set? Well Tonioli has a silent Bruno cameo during the number, but when the dance ended, he couldn’t help but shout his praise.

During the show, contestants celebrated Disney’s 100th anniversary with Disney-themed dances. American Pie actress Alyson Hannigan and her partner Sasha Farber danced to “Be Our Guest” from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Mauricio Umansky and Emma Slater performed “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” from Fantasia. Mira Sorvino and partner Gleb Savchenko waltz to “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes” from Disney’s Cinderella.

The quickstep was performed by Harry Jowsey and Rylee Arnold to “You’ve Got A Friend in Me” from Toy Story. Jason Mraz danced the foxtrot with Daniella Karagach to “A Whole New World” from Aladdin. Charity Lawson and Artem Chigvintsev waltzed to “Part of Your World” from Disney’s newest live-action remake, The Little Mermaid.

Earning the highest scores of the night, Xochitl Gomez and Val Chmerkovskiy stole the show with the Paso Doble to “Un Poco Loco” from Coco. Following close behind in high scores were partners Ariana Madix and Pasha Pashkov, dancing to Frozen 2’s “Into the Unknown.”

The Brady Bunch actor Barry Williams and his partner Peta Murgatroyd performed a jazz dance to “He’s a Tramp” from Disney’s Lady and the Tramp, earning the lowest score of the night. Lele Pons and Brandon Armstrong joined them in the bottom three and danced the rumba to “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” from The Lion King. However, NFL Star Adrian Peterson and Britt Stewart waltzed to “Baby Mine” from Dumbo and were eliminated by fans.

Disney Reveals New Food Offerings for Jollywood Nights

Posted on October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Hollywood Studios

Disney’s Hollywood Studios will host a brand new nighttime party, Disney Jollywood Nights, on ten select evenings from Nov 11-Dec. 20, 2023, this festive season. The separately ticketed event, which takes place 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m., invites guests to experience a glamorous evening full of merry mashups, delicious tastes and sips, iconic throwback characters, and a holiday vibe full of glitz and sparkle. Disney has released the foodie guide for items that will be available for purchase during the party.

From a Disney Cast Member;

Grab your best Hollywood glam and appetite because Disney Jollywood Nights is less than a month away from kicking off its first night! This brand-new holiday extravaganza is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World on 10 select nights Nov. 11 through Dec. 20 and is filled with plenty of festive fun.

This new nighttime soiree will feature plenty of swanky spots for you to enjoy like the Holiday Fiesta en la Calle over in Commissary Lane. The streets will be filled with Latin holiday tunes, colorful décor, and plenty of eats and sips inspired by Latin holiday traditions for a vibrant and lively party. Or experience Jazzy Holidays at The Hollywood Brown Derby as the restaurant transforms into a smooth jazz joint, playing holiday tunes amidst sparkling décor. Here, you can sip craft cocktails and indulge in an exclusive menu of light bites while enjoying the music and ambiance of this classy establishment. You can even drop by the dazzling Twilight Soirée at The Tip-Top Club, a swingin’ soiree in the courtyard of The Hollywood Tower Hotel. A live band will be bringing the fun with holiday tunes in jukebox style as you sip on fancy cocktails.

While you’re at all of these locations and the others scattered throughout the park, you’ll be able to indulge in tasty delights that will light up your taste buds with holiday spirit (and flavor). From the delicious Holiday Turkey Popover at Fairfax Fare to the lovely Tiramisù Puff at PizzeRizzo, and even sweet sips like the Sandy Claws Hot Cocoa from Dockside Diner, this new event has something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season!

And don’t forget about the thrilling entertainment going on too! Be sure to check out the can’t-miss musical variety show featuring some of your favorites, like Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy, and the seasonal nighttime spectacular “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” To make the night even more festive, we’d suggest wearing your holiday best with an old Hollywood flair.

I don’t know about you, but I can’t wait to see all the tasty eats and sips coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios this holiday season. I’m pleased to present to you the official Foodie Guide to the first-ever Disney Jollywood Nights!

Holiday Fiesta en la Calle at ABC Commissary

Chicken Empanadas with Street Corn: Chicken empanadas served with a side of street corn salad topped with chili peppers, lime, and cotija cheese
Yuca con Chicharrón: Fried pork belly, yuca, red pickled onions, and chili pepper-lime seasoning with a yellow pepper aïoli
Mushroom Taco: Chili-roasted Mixed mushrooms, avocado crema, baby gem lettuce, and garnished with sliced radish (Plant-based Item)
Birria Taco: Shredded short rib and Monterey jack served with beef consommé for dipping

Tembleque: Coconut rice pudding with caramel rum sauce and cinnamon
Mexican Hot Cocoa Cheesecake: Spiced chocolate cheesecake on a chocolate cookie base topped with vanilla whipped cream and cocoa powder with a chocolate handle
Mangonada: Frozen mango beverage with mango-chili pepper-lime sauce and chili pepper-lime seasoning on top (Non-alcoholic)
Zero-Proof Piña Colada: Lyre’s Spiced Cane Spirit, coconut, pineapple, and lime
Oaxaca Old Fashioned: Casa Dragones Blanco Tequila, Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, agave nectar, Mexican chocolate, and orange bitters served over ice garnished with an orange

Baseline Taphouse

Tuna Ceviche: Marinated ahi tuna, pico de gallo, and avocado cream topped with cilantro
Charcuterie Cup: Manchego, chorizo, serrano ham, pickled vegetables, olives, and toasted focaccia bread
Beer Margarita: Blend of Patrón Silver Tequila, Cointreau Liqueur, and lime juice topped with Scrimshaw Pilsner over Ice

Dockside Diner

Spicy Pimento-Kimchi Dip topped with chives and served with fresh house-made wonton chips
Roasted Eggplant Dip topped with chives and served with warm pita bread (Plant-based Item)
Poutine Tots: Potato barrels topped with gravy, brisket, mozzarella curds, and chives
Christmas Tree Cookie Stack: Vanilla cookie stack filled with pistachio buttercream, cranberry, and raspberry jam topped with sprinkles and a yellow candy star

Sandy Claws Hot Cocoa: “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas”-inspired dark chocolate hot cocoa topped with cherry whipped cream (Non-alcoholic)
Naughty or Nice: Crown Royal Whisky and ginger mixed with orange, cranberry, and grapefruit juices topped with fresh cranberries

Epic Eats

Spicy Korean Chicken Funnel Cake: Spicy fried Korean chicken with pickled vegetables served on a mini funnel cake
Brisket Reuben Funnel Cake: Beef brisket and sauerkraut slaw topped with thousand island dressing served on a mini funnel cake
S’mores Funnel Cake: Giant roasted marshmallow with chocolate and marshmallow sauce, topped with chocolate curls and cinnamon cereal served on a mini funnel cake
Samuel Adams Winter Lager: Spiced with cinnamon, ginger, and orange peel for a deep flavor and malty finish

Fairfax Fare

Holiday Turkey Popover: Roasted turkey and creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy, cranberry chutney, and chives in a house-made popover
‘Just the Sides’ Popover: Macaroni & cheese and savory collard greens with ham topped with cornbread crumbs in a house-made popover
PB&J Doughnut: Glazed doughnut with creamy peanut butter and grape jelly dipped in dark chocolate topped with crushed house-made salt and vinegar chips
Kermit’s Frozen Banana Bliss: Frozen banana and white chocolate with caramel swirls topped with matcha whipped cream and sprinkle (Non-alcoholic)
Mistletoe Martini: Tito’s Handmade Vodka and St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur mixed with cranberry juice and topped with fresh cranberries and mint leaves

Gertie’s Ice Cream of Extinction

Christmas Gertie Cookie: Sugar cookie with mint icing (Also available with mint soft-serve)

Market

Buffalo Chicken Spring Rolls: Fried spring rolls served with a jalapeño-ranch dipping sauce and fried rice noodles
Frozone’s Snowball Macaroons: Coconut macaroons drizzled with blue vanilla frosting and topped with white snowflake sprinkles
Spiced Apple Cider: Apple cider and cinnamon with an apple chip garnish (Non-alcoholic)
Zero-Proof Apple Cider: Lyre’s Spiced Cane Spirit, apple cider, Angostura Bitters, and cinnamon topped with an apple chip and cinnamon rim
In Holiday Fashion: Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon, rosemary syrup, cranberry and lime juices, and cinnamon

PizzeRizzo

Meatball and Polenta: Giant meatball with marinara and creamy cheese polenta
Olive and Goat Cheese Flatbread: Olive oil-toasted flatbread, creamy goat cheese, rustic olive and tomato spread, balsamic glaze, and lemon watercress
Antipasto Flatbread: Fresh mozzarella, salami, peperoni, country ham, olives, peppers, onions, pepperoncini, and marinara
Tiramisù Puff: Sweet-and-savory with flavors of espresso, chocolate, and a coffee-infused custard and mascarpone cream
Benvolio Pinot Grigio
Banfi Chianti Superiore
Peroni Nastro Azzuro Lager Draft
Heineken 0.0 Non-Alcoholic Lager

Twilight Soirée at The Tip-Top Club

The 5th Dimension Royale: Teremana Blanco Tequila, Cointreau Liqueur, desert pear, agave nectar, and lime juice topped with Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut and garnished with a dehydrated blood orange wheel
Twilight Daiquiri: Parrot Bay Coconut Rum, ube, lime juice, and a splash of shimmer
Sparkling Pomegranate-Apple Cider: Pomegranate-green tea topped with sparkling apple cider and pomegranate seeds
Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut

The Trolley Car Café

Ornament Mousse: Dark chocolate-cherry mousse

Outdoor Vending Locations

Gingerbread Bites (Plant-based Item)

Bar Locations

Zero-Proof Gingerbread Spritzer: Lyre’s Spiced Cane Spirit, gingerbread syrup, and club soda garnished with a gingerbread bite
Sugar Cookie Martini: Stoli Vanil Vodka, Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur, and DISARONNO Originale Liqueur mixed with milk and sugar in a sprinkle-rimmed glass with a sugar cookie garnish

Jazzy Holidays at The Hollywood Brown Derby

Oyster Rockefeller: Spinach foam, shaved parmesan, rocoto pepper relish, and salmon caviar
Crispy Duck Drumettes: Spicy orange glaze, carrots, and kumquats
Charcuterie: House-made cured meats and accompaniments, blue cheese mousse, and toasted sourdough
Shrimp Cocktail: Classic cocktail sauce, citrus pearls, avocado mousse

Derby Slider: Bison and pork belly blend, taleggio cheese sauce, and fig stout jam
Tuna Carpaccio: Mezcal pickled vegetables, salsa macha, and avocado crema
Pork Belly Bao: Korean BBQ, cucumber slaw, and soy vinaigrette
Tofu Bao: Seared tofu, cucumber slaw, and soy vinaigrette
An assortment of classic cocktails, zero-proof and non-alcoholic beverages, wine, and beer

To experience the festive fun of Jazzy Holidays at The Holiday Brown Derby, you can request to join the walk-up waitlist on the My Disney Experience app. Learn more here!

Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company

Tinseltown Tini: Toast to holiday cheer with this cold brew coffee topped with Kahlúa, Grey Goose Vodka, a hint of light cream, and a dash of whipped cream with cocoa (Available at the location near The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror)
Round ‘Em Up Latte: A merry blend of espresso, cookie butter syrup, dulce de leche sauce, and milk topped with fluffy whipped cream, playful animal crackers, and festive sprinkles; available hot or iced (Non-alcoholic Beverage) (Available at the location in Toy Story Land)

Wow! What a tasty line-up coming to this brand-new event. I sure am hungry (and excited). You can purchase tickets to Disney Jollywood Nights here and try all of these delicious items for yourself.