Deb's Digest

American Idol's latest star, Kris Allen, fulfilled his announcement last week, "I'm going to Disney World".

The park was very crowded, between Star Wars Weekend festivities and Kris Allen's appearance.

Prior to the motorcard down Hollywood Blvd, Kris taped a promo spot with some lucky fans.

Mickey accompanied Kris down Hollywood Blvd.

After arriving at the Stage outside the American Idol Attraction, Kris said a few words.

He then sang "Heartless" and played guitar

Minnie came out and fawned all over her American Idol.

We went inside the American Idol Attraction for the 11am show. Arriving about 40 minutes prior, we were able to see the show's contestants practive their songs and get all set up.

Kris came out briefly and then left while the contestants sang their best.

Kris reappeared to announce the name of the contestant that will sing in tonights final American Idol show and win a "golden" ticket to an American Idol show audition.

Afterwards, a media question and answer session took place on the Sounds Dangerous Stage.

An American Idol Star Dedication was on the schedule, but cancelled. Maybe weather concerns?

No word on how first time WDW visitor Kris Allen will be spending the rest of his day, although he did indicate he wanted to try Rock n Roller Coaster!

Disney's Official Press Release

More information about the American Idol Attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

UPDATE - The Official Website is now live:
http://d23.disney.go.com/

For a number of weeks now, the Disney online community has been buzzing about D23 trying to figure out exactly what it meant! Speculation began to turn towards a new Disney Fan Club and early last week a few websites were displaying photographs of what appeared to be D23 membership pins.

Over the last several days, the premiere issue of Disney twenty+three (slated to debut on March 10, 2009) began to surface in book stores. So this morning, as I passed my local Barnes and Noble store, I decided to stop in.

In the magazine section was a small black stand with a couple layers of the new magazine.

It was packaged very nicely in cellophane to protect the pages, or perhaps to keep folks from thumbing through it before they pay the list price of $15.95.

A simple black and white cover with Walt, the magazine is on heavy glossy paper and measures 11 x 12 1/2.

"Welcome to the premiere issue of Disney twenty-three, the new quarterly publication exclusively for D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans."

Below are some snapshots of the issue. It even includes photographs from the February American Idol Press Event!

You'll see a wide range of topics from Walt himself to themeparks, dining, movies, imagineers, and broadway.

More to come as I look through the magazine.

Congrats to AllEars team member Michelle Scribner-MacLean. Today she completed her first half marathon!

YEA MICHELLE

Last week I announced the 3rd Annual IllumiNations Party Ticket Giveaway!

Over 300 persons entered the contest. It was VERY hard to select the final 10 winners. I only wish I had more tickets available.

Below is a list of all the winners. Each was notified via email Sunday, 11/30/08. All winners must RSVP back to me by midnight Tuesday, 12/2/08 to claim their tickets.

Congrats to the following persons:

Kristin Harmon and Stephanie Derga
Lisa and Ben Huffman
Danny and Michelle Bishop
Kathy Jones and Vickie Free
Randy Katz and Shane Faullin
Gale and Sam Bell
Michelle Andriani
Bree Elms
Sharyn Snell-Rudy
Joanne

Thanks to everyone that entered the giveaway!!! May your holidays be safe and warm :)

Deb

It's time for the THIRD ANNUAL IllumiNations Party Ticket Giveaway!!!!

Have you ever wandered around Epcot in the evening and seen those people in the private IllumiNations viewing areas? Have you ever wondered how YOU could be one of those lucky people?

Copyright © 2003 Barrie Brewer, Nikon E3100

As a special holiday thanks to all our readers AllEars® is giving away 10 pairs of tickets to a Private VIP IllumiNations Reception to be held in Epcot on Sunday evening, December 14, 2008. Meet time will be approximately 8:15 pm (inside Epcot) with a special after-IllumiNations experience that may last 30-45 minutes after IllumiNations.

You must have your own admission into Epcot.

You and your guest must be 18 years of age or older.

To enter, send an email to allearsnet@yahoo.com no later than midnight East Coast USA time on Monday, November 24. Winners will be emailed and announced no later than December 1.

Email Subject line should say: IllumiNations Dream Tickets
In 30 words or less, tell me why you should win a pair of tickets.

All decisions are final. I am not responsible for lost emails. This is ONLY for two tickets to the Private IllumiNations event on Sunday December 14, 2008. No other date or event may be substituted. This offer does not include air, hotel, theme park admission, souvenirs or anything else. ONLY the IllumiNations party event.

You may not transfer your ticket.

You do not have to be a registered MouseFest attendee. Anyone who will be in Epcot on December 14, 2008 is eligible.

This is a land-based event and not the IllumiNations boat cruise.

Meet time is subject to change – Meet location will be provided to winners approximately 7 days prior to event.

Anyone from any country who meets the criteria above may enter.

Thank you SO much to everyone you sent in entries for the American Adventure Dinner on Sunday August 31st. I wish I had enough tickets for all of you.

We held a random drawing this morning and the winning email belongs to

Chris and Jenny Murray!!!! Congratulations.

Thank you everyone!!!!!

Deb

Every now and then I have the opportunity spread a little magic and support a great cause at the same time.... It's one of the really fun parts about being the All Ears guru.

Today, I have a very limited and very unique opportunity for 2 lucky folks.

Here's the scoop.

1) You must be in the WDW area on Sunday night, August 31, 2008
2) You must have your own admission into Epcot
3) You are TWO adults (both over 18)
4) You don't have dinner plans or you can cancel the plans you do have.
5) You must be free from 6:30pm until park closing.
6) You are interested in making a donation to the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer.

So far so good?

Ok, Here's the deal. I have 2 tickets for the special private American Adventure Dinner Party hosted by Steve Barrett and Myself on Sunday night August 31, 2008.

These tickets were selling for $70/a piece, so it's a $140 value.

How this works....

By midnight tonight send me 25 words or less on why you'd like to attend the American Adventure dinner on Sunday night. Include the names of both adults who will be attending and where you are staying.

Mail this to allearsnet@yahoo.com Put AA dinner in the subject line.

I will do a drawing and select one winner who will receive 2 tickets. I will notify the selected email by email on Friday morning.

Once notified, you make an online donation to my Avon Walk for Breast Cancer Fundraiser. The amount is up to you, but a minimum of $10 is required by the Avon Website. Once that is done, I'll send you specifics on where and when to meet me on Sunday.

This is not a contest or a sweepstakes. All decisions final by me. Lost emails are not my fault. There is no complaining or anything else. It's a bit of magic for you and a cause near and dear to me.

Time is a factor so act VERY quickly.

Good Luck!

On April 22, 2008 Animal Kingdom theme park proudly turned 10 years young!

In conjuction with Walt Disney World and Animal Kingdom, the WDWCelebrations.com team hosted their 2nd anniversary event, A Wild Decade. You may recall these were the same folks that brought you Celebration 25 -honoring Epcot's 25 years in 2007.

Registration for the Wild Decade closed a few weeks prior at 400. Not too shabby considering the event was on a Tuesday!

Check-in began bright and early near the Animal Kingdom ticket booths. Then the lines to get into the park quickly developed.

Animal Kingdom offered just a few events to commemorate the birthday.
First, a Re-Dedication Ceremony at park opening, hosted by Erin Wallace, Joe Rohde and Jane Goodall.

After the ceremony, Animal Kingdom Vice President Val Bunting greeted guests at the Attraction Times board. The first photo is Adam Roth and Val. The next one is me with Val.

Then there was a very special opportunity to hear Joe Rohde speak in the Theatre in the Wild. He is quite the storyteller and it's easy to see why he is such a successful imagineer! His facial expressions really added to the talk.

Special thanks to Patty Cook, who I met at the talk, for the cool photographs of Joe.

We have the audio for listening.

Lastly, Joe was available for autographs and photographs from 1-2pm in the afternoon. Here is AllEars Team Member Linda Mac with Joe!

Soon it was time for the WDWCelebrations.com Wild Decade events to begin!

The Wild Decade had their first attraction meet of the day enjoying Finding Nemo the Musical. From there, it was on to Expedition Everest!

At 2pm, the now traditional History Walk took place. Prior to the walks beginning, there was a very special visit by Animal Kingdom Vice President Val Bunting. Not only did she speak with the Wild Decade group, she entertained a few questions from the crowd and then stayed on for photo ops and even some pin trading. I asked Val about future attractions and new animal species that may be coming to the park. She replied with the standard Disney answer... we're always looking at new opportunities.....etc etc! In otherwords, no special announcements on April 22nd!

Attendees were split into 2 groups for the History Walk, one led by John C and one by Tom Corless. I attended Tom's walk and really enjoyed it. I even learned a few new things that I can share with friends on our next adventure to the park!! To the WDWCelebrations Team - kudos on the history talk!!!

Next, the folks at Animal Kingdom reserved 2 of the areas at the Flame Tree BBQ for Wild Decade Attendees to use for dinner. That really worked well. People were able to mingle and have some down time together. It was VERY nice.

At about 6:15pm, most of us having now been in the park almost 12 hours, I was starting to get tired. There were 2 events I still wanted to get to....but made the decision to forgo the last meet on Dinosaur!

We gathered outside DinoLand USA for a presentation. The Wild Decade organizers, led by 17-year-old Adam Roth, presented a $500 check to author Lou Mongello (The Walt Disney World Trivia Book) to go to the Dream Team charity he has established, which benefits terminally ill children through the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Afterwards we posed for a group photo that was a lot of fun to organize.

Larger Wild Decade Group Photo Image

Soon it wsa time to say goodbyes. The day went WAY too fast but the memories will last a long time.

Thanks to Val Bunting, Joe Rohde, the Cast Members who helped create Animal Kingdom and those that have worked there over the years, the WDWCelebrations team and all the attendees who made this a wonderful day.

Their next event, a World Wide Weekend will be held in late September. Registration is already open. I'll be there, will you?

Every year the Food and Wine Festival sports new logos and merchandise for you to purchase, this year is no exception.

There is plenty of merchandise to choose from, both with and without Food and Wine logos. Here are just a few of the items I found in the Festival Marketplace in the Wonders of Life pavilion.

Chef Mickey Plushes cost $9.95 plus tax.

Festival Aprons

Mugs cost $12.00 plus tax.

Trivets cost $12.00 plus tax.

Wine Store - if you see something you like, get it! They do sell out of popular wines as the Festival goes on.

Wine Store

Limited Edition pins

Festival poster is $16 unframed. Artist does signings off and on during the festival.

Part 1 Epcot's 25th Rededication Ceremony

Marty continued to reminisce about the early days of speaking with Walt about Epcot.

He went on to say: "I'll never forget that opening day of Epcot…”

Marty: “…One of the things I remember the most was a water pouring ceremony to start the Comunicore fountain behind us. Don’t you think it would be wonderful if we could do something like that today?"

Tracy: "Today we have the incredible privilege of having our own cultural representatives right here at Epcot. It's time to meet the representatives of the countries of World Showcase."

Tracy: "The cultural representatives are carrying colorful banners representing the countries of World Showcase: Japan, Morocco, France, United Kingdom, Canada, America, Italy, Germany, China, Norway and Mexico.

Tracy: The cultural representatives are "carrying many different types of water containers, representing famous rivers or bodies of water."

For each country, the name of the container and the body of water was announced as the processional continued.

"The Pouring of the Water"

Music, fireworks and fountains filled the air.

All too soon, the rededication came to an end….

Jim MacPhee publicly thanked his team that created Epcot's 25th Anniversary events.

The Celebration 25 fan group then gathered for a photo in front of the fountains and Spaceship Earth.

Jim MacPhee and Walt Disney World Ambassadors Michael and Lowell joined the photo op!

Linda Mac did a great job of telling you about the start of our day at Epcot, so I'll pick it up from there.

It really was a beautiful morning which was good since we spent a lot of time waiting. Even though Spaceship Earth remained closed for renovations, it made the perfect backdrop for the festivities against the blue sky.

I purchased a limited edition T-shirt and a Figment for myself which took quite a bit of time. So much time that I could not wait in any of the Limited Edition pin lines. (If anyone has any extra of the limited edition 25th Anniversary pins, please let me know.) From the shop I headed over to the rope drop area. My souvenir shopping put me much further back from the rope than I had hoped. Nonetheless, I was there in person and very excited!!!

We waited at the rededication location for well over an hour. It provided a wonderful opportunity to talk to those around and listen to the stories of what brought people to Epcot on this special day. Many knew the significance, some, "just followed the crowd."

Here is a photo from my spot, about 5 rows from the front, looking back toward World Showcase. It'll give you an idea of how many folks attended the ceremony.

AllEars® Senior Editor, Debra Martin Koma, with AllEars® Guest Columnist, Brian Martsolf.

Adam Roth (co-founder Celebration 25 one of the unofficial fan gatherings) is being interviewed for a podcast. Adam is holding an original Figment from the early 80's which belongs to Celebration 25 co-founder Jenn Waitt.

The fanfare began with Ambassador Michael taking the stage. He welcomed everyone to Epcot's 25th Rededication Ceremony...

... and introduced Tracy Wui, Rededication Ceremony Hostess.

Tracy explained that in the original dedication ceremony, one of the speakers said of Epcot, "This represents a dream come true". The original musical score played 25 years ago, We've Just Begun to Dream, was played again on this special day. And, as Tracy said, "After 25 years we can still say "we've just begun"!

As the music played, Tracy introduced Epcot Cast Members representing Future World. The processional included 2 Cast Members from each attraction, one holding a sign representing that attraction. Spaceship Earth's sign was the original icon for the attraction, followed by Innoventions, Energy, Mission Space, Test Track, Seas with Nemo and Friends, the Land and Imagination. The crowd cheered and applauded as each attraction was announced.

Next on stage came Erin Wallace, Senior Vice President Operations Walt Disney World Resorts and Jim MacPhee, Vice President Epcot.

Jim asked for applause from everyone who was here 25 years ago when Epcot opened. He then recounted his opening day story, of being an Epcot Cast Member and working in the Parking Lot! Standing center stage at the 25th Celebration for a Cast Member who began as a parking lot cast member, certainly had to have been "A Dream Come True" for Jim as well.

Erin spoke of the significance of Epcot's opening in 1982, "When Epcot was built and opened, it really signaled an era of growth on this property."

Jim: "We recognize that the heritage and tradition of our founder is woven through the fabric of everything we do here, every moment of every day.

Jim: "You can dream, create, imagine and build the most wonderful place in the world. But it requires people to make that dream a reality." He went on to say, "We have one special person, who was right next to Walt."

Erin continued: "He began his career in 1955 working with Walt on Disneyland. He is the only Disney Cast member to participate in every opening of our 11 theme parks worldwide; named a Disney Legend in 2001, Executive Vice President and Imagineering Ambassador, Marty Sklar." The crowd broke out in a loud applause.

Mickey and Minnie escorted Marty on stage to a huge applause from the audience.

Marty: "Walt's vision for Epcot really set the course for everything that has happened here at Walt Disney World in the 41 years since he announced his vision."

"The passion for excellence that Walt Disney inspired, motivated all of us, Disney Cast Members as well as the designers, engineers, architects, and film makers who joined us to dream big dreams, invent new experiences and tell new stories about the lessons of yesterday, the challenges of today, and the promise of tomorrow."

Marty then read Card Walker's dedication of Epcot 25 years ago and added his own remarks:
"25 years ago we said, the 21st century began on October 1, 1982. Today, on October 1, 2007 we rededicate Epcot, and ourselves, to a new future that begins now. "

To be continued......

After our lunch break, the Celebration 25 history walks reconvenied at the Living Seas, or rather, the Seas with Nemo and Friends.

The Land... from Kitchen Kaberet to Food Rocks to Soarin'

Journey into Imagination becomes Journey into Your Imagination.

Spaceship Earth

A surprise guest appearance by Epcot Vice President, Jim MacPhee.

For those of you wondering where the rest of Friday and all of Saturday's reports are, well, I'll have to fill them in later.

Today I want to tell you about the start of Celebration 25.
If you are just tuning in here are the previous blogs:
Part 1 - Epcot Turns 25

Journey into Imagination - a look back.

Epcot Celebrates 25 Years - a Chat with Adam Roth

This morning registration tables opened bright and early near Epcot's Kennel facility. When I arrived it was 9:40am and other folks were also still checking in. It was a very orderly process and everything went smoothly.

Here are the Roth's checking in an attendee.

It was at this time I met Adam Roth and Jenn Waitt, the Celebration 25 co-founders as well as other members of this amazing team. Here is a photo of Adam and myself.

Jenn accepts an Appreciation postcard from attendee Chris.

Matt Pezzula, event videographer, interviews a couple in front of Spaceship Earth. The team is capturing attendee memories of their first visit to Epcot.

Today's events were primarily history walks hosted by John Corigliano (Mouse Times). John did an amazing job of keeping his presentations brief and concise. I think everyone attending probably learned some new things about the Future World attractions. John would talk about the original attraction and then how it has evolved into what you see today.

The first history walk began at 11:30 at Test Track. John spoke about the World of Motion pavilion.

Next we went to Mission Space where John began with a discussion about Horizons.

The final stop in the Future World East tour was at the Universe of Energy.

Adam shares some historical facts as well.

Before breaking for lunch, Jenn, Adam, John and Matt pose for a photo.

Next up.... the Future World West tour and a surprise visitor!

This is the 3rd in a series of blogs on Epcot's 25th Anniversary.
Epcot Turns 25!
Journey to Imagination Postcards .

Less than a week from now, Epcot will be buzzing with all the excitement! Yes, the Food and Wine Festival begins this weekend, but also Epcot turns 25 on Monday, October 1st and there is a very special 2 day event called Celebration 25.

I had the pleasure recently to chat with Adam Roth, one of the co-founders of Celebration 25, an event designed to celebrate 25 years of Epcot. Adam is a 16 year old high school junior who lives in the Orlando area. Adam wasn't even born when Epcot opened. However, there is an Epcot connection with his family. Adam's father was a reporter who covered Epcot's opening and still has a pre-opening Epcot press kit!

Adam recalled for me one of his early visits to Horizons and also talked about the Journey Into Imagination attraction, especially how much he enjoyed the Image Works. In fact, his website (Dreamfinder Forever) started as a campaign to bring back Figment's buddy the Dreamfinder.

When asked what makes Disney special, Adam explained: "I'm a passholder for many of the local parks. When I look and try to compare...I can't honestly go to Universal or Sea World every weekend, but for some reason, I can go back to Disney every weekend! With Disney, I don't get bored. It's always something new for me - something new to find and to do"

Celebration 25 was actually the idea of Jenn Waitt who started a discussion on the WDWMagic message boards. She wanted to organize something to pay tribute to the 25th anniversary of Epcot. Adam offered space on his website, Dreamfinder Forever, and that was the start.

As more people registered, Jenn and Adam were busy adding more folks to their team. "It's amazing to think that 8 months have passed since we started this and we are over 1,000 people past what we imagined," Adam explained.

The Celebration 25 team is comprised of many folks. "Jenn - came up with the idea; Jason is in charge of the IllumiNations dessert party; John Corigliano is doing several history walks; Lou Mongello is an official sponsor and has provided name tags and lanyards in addition to lots of support; Jeff Pepper another sponsor is providing the printed schedule; and there are many partner websites too."

One would think Adam had lots of experience planning events, but this is the first time he's ever done anything like this. It's amazing especially when you consider that he is also keeping up with his high school AP classes and preparing for a school trip to France at the end of October.

"What about your folks?", I inquired, "What do they think of all this?" "They're amazed!", Adam said excitedly. "I first told them about it 8 months ago, that I was going to miss school on October 1st. After I explained they said 'that's fine'. As it started to grow, they said, 'We're not missing this!"

Initial plans for the event were very small with hopes to get 200 persons signed up. The IllumiNations dessert party was the first thing the group officially organized. That was the foot in the door at Epcot. Scott Powers wrote about Celebration 25 in the Orlando Sentinel and then things really took off.

All along, it's been very important to Adam that Epcot officials be aware of the group's activities. He didn't want any issues during the event. Working closely with Epcot cast members, space has even been provided near Epcot's Kennel Club for the Celebration 25 registration tables. All registered attendees will receive a lanyard/nametag and IllumiNations dessert party attendees will have a separate identifier.

And if this isn't enough, Adam made it clear to me how important having a charity associated with the event was to him and the team. Lou Mongello's Dream Team fundraiser for Make a Wish will be the charity associated with Celebration 25. All proceeds from the Celebration 25 DVD and Scrapbook and any extra from the IllumiNations dessert party will go to the Dream Team fundraiser. "Now we can do something for the community and not just Epcot."

Adam isn't sure if all 50 states are represented in the registered attendees, but he does know that there is a large group coming from the United Kingdom. There is also a couple getting married on October 1st and rather than head off to their honeymoon, they are coming to the Celebration 25 activities and the dessert party.

According to Adam, and most of this has also been reported in the Orlando Sentinel, Epcot will have several special displays/activities to celebrate 25 years!

The Epcot Gallery in Innoventions West opens October 1st for guests and promises to be a step back through the years of Epcot's history. While it is unclear how long the gallery will be open, it sounds like through the end of this year. There will be 2 sessions with Marty Sklar. All Celebration 25 registered IllumiNations dessert party attendees will have a ticket to one of the two sessions. Disney is also planning special 25th Anniversary merchandise including t-shirts and pins.

IllumiNations will have a special "tag" after the regular show which will be a one time only tribute that's 5 minutes long. Adam shared that there will be additional fireworks, lasers, music from Epcot's past (Tapestry of Nations) and possibly Spaceship Earth used as a canvas.

And....when it's all said and done, Adam wants "to remember this as something I had a part in. I think that everyone who has been involved and everyone who has signed up has made this event so strong... I"m proud to be involved. This is one of those times we can say to Disney; this does mean something to us! I know that our presence has reminded them in a friendly way, that we do care."

I, and many others, will be in Epcot Sunday and Monday to be part of all the excitement! See you there!

( This article was originally published in the AllEars® weekly newsletter on July 24, 2007.)

The Magic of Meets!

by Deb Wills,
ALL EARS® Editor-in-Chief

Having recently returned from MagicMeets, an incredible weekend in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, I was finding it very difficult to "put pen to paper" and get my thoughts and emotions written to share them with you. Every time I sat down to write, I found myself staring at the screen, wondering where to start. An overdose of Pixie Dust will do that to you! You know what I'm taking about, right? Like when you come home from a Disney trip and images of Mickey and Donald and the Queen of Hearts and Alice are still dancing in your head, but you don't exactly know how to describe it?

Then, I received an email from reader Teddy Beaver that put things into perspective for me:

"I just want to tell AllEars®subscribers that if you read this newsletter or Mouseplanet or PassPorter or any of the other fine websites, books, e-newsletters, etc., do not ever hesitate to attend functions they sponsor or tell us about. I have read over the years about MouseFest, MagicMeets, trips, gatherings, whole bunches of stuff that they have invited us readers to. Well, finally, this past weekend, I had the pleasure of attending MagicMeets. WOW! What a blast! The whole day was fun and informative. But I have to say, the high point was meeting all these folks who week-after-week share and spread Disney magic. The Debs, Mike Scopa, Fred Block, the Marxes, and just too many to mention, ALL were friendly, welcoming and truly made us feel part of the experience. My warmest, sincere thanks to all of our publishing friends who bring us a little bit of magic all year round. It was great being with people who not only 'get it,' they make it happen!"

THAT, as my dear friend Mike Scopa said during his keynote talk at Magic Meets, is "Why We Do What We Do."

We do it because we still believe in spreading the Magic -- the Magic that we find at Walt Disney World and want to carry with us in our day-to-day lives.

So what exactly was MagicMeets? It was rather like a mini-convention, a gathering of Disney lovers who wanted to get a little "fix" without making the trip to Orlando. There were keynote speeches in the ballroom; 12 breakout sessions on everything from Home Imagineering to dining at Disney to what it's like to be a Cast Member; Segways available for trial in the conference center area; webmasters and book authors and others on hand to discuss all manner of things Disney; a kids' area; a wonderful luncheon -- and it was all broadcast live on the web via folks who usually bring you Disney podcasts. And, for those who stayed through the weekend, let's not forget the adventure to nearby Hershey Park on Sunday when we had our own chocolate-covered version of Extra Magic Hour.

Every person I saw on Saturday at the MagicMeets event had a huge smile on his or her face. Whenever I asked someone how the day was going, "Outstanding!" was the typical response. If we could have harnessed the energy from the laughter alone, Monster's Inc. style, who knows what we could have accomplished.

Since I returned home, I've heard story after story of heartfelt joy, surprise and magic from that day. I'm sure every attendee has his or her own special memories. Here are just a few of mine:

-- talking with a gentleman who came up to me and reminded me that I had met him at Walt Disney World some time ago when he was in a wheelchair. He thanked me for my kindness that day.

-- hearing the giggles of Beci and Annette from MouseFanTravel after they tossed pixie dust on a woman and awarded a ticket to a private party for this December's MouseFest.

-- hugging two ladies I met several years ago in the Magic Kingdom while waiting for the Christmas parade, as they excitedly told me they would be sailing on the cruise I'm hosting along with Steve Barrett (the "Deb and Steve Cruise") in September 2008.

-- seeing the breast cancer survivor I met two years ago at this event. At the end of the day, this woman approached me and I immediately remembered her. We hugged, shared a few private words and then gleefully looked into the camera for a photographic record of our brief encounter.

-- being convinced we were going to float in the air with Peter Pan and Wendy when the couple bidding on tickets to a special IllumiNations party I am co-hosting in December ran up to me to tell me they had WON!

Topping off all these memories is the one I've saved for last: More than 110 items were donated, packaged, and brought to the MagicMeets event this year for a silent auction, with the proceeds to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Under the guiding hands of Lou Mongello, of DisneyWorldTrivia.com, and Pat Whitson, auction coordinator for the project, "Dream Team" volunteers assembled an auction area that looked incredibly professional in the hopes of raising enough money to send one family to Walt Disney World ($6,000). Through the generosity of the 520 people gathered in that ballroom in Camp Hill that day, a grand total of $9,000 was raised! When the total was announced, there were many folks dabbing their eyes with tissues and many others were speechless.

Mike Scopa summed up what I was feeling: "I walked over to the silent auction area as Fred (Block) was doing more prize giveaways. I saw the total money raised -- $9,000 -- and grabbed Pat (Whitson) and started crying. Amidst all that was given the attendees during this special day they had turned around and had given back. I was so moved."

The power of the Disney community is incredible. Lou and Pat -- many of us are already thinking of creative donations for the 2008 auction so we can break five figures!

Kudos to the folks who donated items, and to all the folks who bid on items. Everyone who attended deserves a huge round of applause. And I mean everyone.

Did you know that everyone who attended MagicMeets purchased a ticket? That included each speaker -- each paid all his or her own expenses. Each table holder paid a sponsor fee in support of the event. We all gave of our time freely, so that all attendees would have a day to remember. I believe we achieved that and much more.

Speaking of applause, I want to be sure to acknowledge Fred Block, the mastermind of this event -- he outdid himself. Fred is supported by a loving wife and two beautiful daughters, who willingly (OK, maybe not that willingly) made their own sacrifices so that their husband/father could spend countless hours/weeks/months putting together the MagicMeets gathering. I'd like to also thank everyone who stopped by the AllEars® table to express their thanks for the website, newsletter and blogs. Team Members Deb Koma and Linda Eckwerth worked very hard all day to keep things flowing at the table. To everyone who attended my talk, "Ahoy Mateys, Disney Cruises for Adults" -- we had a great time, didn't we? Many thanks to my team and the MouseFanTravel.com folks for assisting with the presentation.

Just before the MagicMeets event, I was really tired, burning the candle at both ends. I found myself falling asleep every night on the living room couch, dragging out of bed at 5 a.m. when the alarm went off... make that 5:25 after I hit the snooze button two or three times. I'd been spending the last few weeks very busy on the final prep for MagicMeets, gathering swag to pass out, putting finishing touches on the gift baskets for giveaways (Linda Eckwerth gets special kudos for these), deciding on decorations for my "Ahoy Mateys!" break-out session, finding last-minute goodies for the Make-A-Wish silent auction, packing everything up...

And then I went to MagicMeets, and that made it all seem worthwhile. Yes, I came back from Camp Hill still physically tired (I think those late nights staying up after midnight had something to do with that), but mentally I was rejuvenated. My batteries have been totally RECHARGED and I feel the creative juices pumping again.

You see, while the umbrella under which we gathered was Disney, MagicMeets really has as its underpinning -- Magic. The smiles and laughter, hugs and tears, sharing in the joys of friendship are what make MagicMeets special.

We hope you'll consider joining in the Magic of MagicMeets along with us next year.

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The alarm going off at 5:30am this morning was just plain "rude", LOL. Especially since we didn't get to bed until after midnight last evening. There is SO much going on and so many people here, you don't want to stop.

At 7:15, the sponsors and speakers have breakfast with Fred to go over all last minute items and run thru the day's events. I know once it starts.... it'll be like a roller coaster.

We have to have our tables all set up for the doors to open at 10am!

Here are some additional photos from last night's VIP reception.
Mike Scopa (WDWToday, MousePlanet, AllEars), Dave Card (Tagrel), Debbie Koma (All Ears)

Ann, Deb, Carolyn and Jill

Folks enjoying the refreshments.

Mike Scopa and friends.

What a day! It's almost midnight and we haven't stopped since we got here around 3pm. Waves of folks are checking into the hotel. It's hard to walk 5 feet without running into someone who is here for the event.

We spent our afternoon setting up our tables and meeting and greeting all the folks we haven't seen in a long time. The ballroom looks awesome!!!

Pat and Tracy begin to set up the Dream Team auction area.

Debbie Koma and I set up the breakout room for tomorrow's talk on the Disney Cruise Line.

A few of us had dinner at the hotel restaurant and then got ready for the VIP reception. Fred Block asked everyone who had booked 2 or more nights at the hotel to send in their name for a random drawing of 40 persons. The VIP reception had lots of perks, but the big one was checking in for the Sat meet in advance. No waiting in line!

Here's Colleen and some of the other staff of volunteers that were checking in folks who won tickets to the VIP reception.

Fred welcomes everyone to the VIP reception.

9:30am -- Just spoke to Fred on the phone. Things are going great.

Here is Fred's morning report:

Just woke up a little while ago. We were in the ballroom late last night getting a head start on things. Screens and projectors needed to be setup and fine tuned and audio systems had to be turned up and tested.

Mike Scopa, Mike Newell, Lou Mongello, two very helpful volunteers ( Jim Felty and Brad Garfinkel) and myself all worked in the ballroom with setup.

Shortly after midnight we were joined by Beci Mahnken who flew in from Seattle WA. She gave me one heck of a bear hug! It's GREAT to see friends again!

Trying to remember what else as I'm still not completely awake but alas, as has been said, THERE IS WORK TO DO!

Today I will be doing more work in the ballroom and also preparing for most of the sponsors and speakers to arrive. Being that some people got a head start setting up yesterday, those arriving today find extra hands to help out.

Aside from setting up the ballroom and breakout rooms, we also have to prepare for our first (hopefully annual) Friday Night Pre Meet VIP Party.

Well that's all for now, I'll try to get some more to you all later if I can squeeze in a fraction of time from my loaded schedule.

Deb's Update
Last night Linda and I were busy doing last minute touches on everything. We are both working this morning and then will head home around lunch time to pack the car and head out. Of course, packing the car is not as easy as it sounds. We have 4 gift baskets (yes 4) that will be given away at the meet, plus AllEars® Swag, plus decorations for my breakout talk.

Also, we are bringing several Disney posters that will be on easils at the AllEars tables. These posters are "for sale" with all monies going to the DreamTeams' Make a Wish fundraiser. The posters are very cool - I'll try to get some pics up later.

We are only about 90 minutes from Harrisburg so the ride will, hopefully, go quickly.

Today we will probably run around like little kids -- screaming with delight to see our dear friends again.... and meeting lots of new folks.

I'll be checking in again later this afternoon once we arrive at the hotel. Will also see if I can get a couple blog interviews with folks who have already arrived.

Hold onto your hats and glasses folks - this here is the "wildest" ride in the universe.

Deb

Photos being sent live from cell phones.

Mike Scopa has arrived in Harrisburg.

Fred just called.. he's **so** excited. "All the months and months of planning are coming together. You can already feel the Disney Magic in the air."

He's got a busy afternoon still. Headed now over to one of the Sponsors, Kathy's Christmas, that is holding a special "after meet" event on Saturday.

After that, he and Mike Scopa are going to pick up the PA equipment and get started setting it up in the ballroom.

Fred said the hotel did a great job setting up the huge ballroom -- "now it's our turn to sprinkle it with Pixie Dust."

Some meet attendees, including some of the volunteer staff, have begun to arrive. They are being greeted in the hotel lobby by the Welcome to MagicMeets signage!

Fred recently spoke to the Lou Mongello, afternoon keynote speaker, and he's on his way from New Jersey and plans to arrive this evening.

The last thing Fred said to me was: Hang on Deb -- The Ride is About to Start!!"

Here's Mike next to one of the MagicMeets Signs at the Hotel.!

Fred Block and Mike Scopa

Fred Block on his segway

MagicMeets Organizer Fred Block arrived in Harrisburg yesterday. As chairperson, he needed to get to the hotel a few days early to make sure everything is as planned. Those of you who have run events know how those last minute items always get you!

Fred tells me he has a busy day planned including meeting with the hotel conference staff this afternoon.

Here's an early photo of the ballroom as the setup begins.

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