Disney News Blog

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., Sept. 1, 2009 -- The Fifth Annual MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney kicks off Thursday, Sept. 3 with a fun-filled weekend of activities leading up to game day. The events include a career panel for local high school students followed by three separate competitions including an exciting match-up on the gridiron, a southern-style feast off the field and an entertaining performance on the stage.

The MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney pits South Carolina State University, the current defending champion of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), against Grambling State University, which is the 2008 title winner of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). This is the second consecutive year that the Florida Citrus Bowl has hosted the MEAC/SWAC football rivalry.

“We are excited to celebrate this rich college tradition that gives enthusiastic football fans from throughout the eastern seaboard another reason to visit Central Florida,” said Eugene Campbell, vice president of Community Relations and Minority Business Development for Walt Disney World Resort. “We are proud to sponsor this game as a way to not only support the African-American community and the 25 Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the Mid-Eastern and Southwestern Athletic Conferences, but also as an opportunity to grow this event into another highly ranked national football game that will have a positive economic impact on Central Florida.”

The weekend highlights include:

Thursday, Sept. 3

* ESPN 101 Career Panel, 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Approximately 600 local high school juniors and seniors interested in pursuing careers in sports and entertainment will attend the ESPN 101 High School Career Panel at the Disney-sponsored Boys & Girls Club in Pine Hills. Students from Edgewater, Evans, Jones, Oak Ridge, Wekiva and Ocoee High Schools will learn about the wide world of job opportunities within the sports business from a panel of industry professionals. This year’s panelists include ESPN SportsCenter co-host Jay Harris; Robert Vowels, NCAA vice president of educational affairs; Gerald Jones, Tampa Bay Buccaneers business development manager; Valerie Royal, manager of Minority Business Development for Walt Disney World Resort, and more.

Friday, Sept. 4

* MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kickoff Banquet, 8 p.m.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios serves as the back drop for coaches, student-athletes, team representatives, community leaders and sponsors as they celebrate the Fifth Annual MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney college football game. The highlight of the evening includes the presentation of the Walter Payton award, which will honor a deserving player from each school. This year’s keynote speaker is Pro- Bowl Hall of Famer Kellen Winslow. SportsCenter anchor Jay Harris will emcee the banquet.

Saturday, Sept. 5

* Disney STEP Classic, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

The Disney STEP Classic offers a full day of exhilarating musical entertainment and choreography at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Dozens of high school and college teams from the eastern United States take center stage on Saturday to showcase their best step routines and compete for top prizes totaling $20,000 in cash and scholarships. The top three winners will be showcased on the Pre-Game Stage before the MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney and will be recognized during halftime.
* Magic Music Days Performance, 2:45 p.m.

As part of the MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney “Fan Day,” South Carolina State University’s Marching Band will parade down Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom just prior to Celebrate a Dream Come True Parade.
* Legends Dinner, 6 p.m.

Several notable legends, including athletes and musicians from the MEAC and SWAC will be honored during an evening tribute to their legacy at the Atlantic Dance Hall at Walt Disney World Resort. Grammy award-winning gospel artist Smokie Norful (University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff) and former NFL cornerback Everson Walls (Grambling State University) are among those who will be recognized.

Sunday, Sept. 6

* The Heart and Soul Tailgate, 10 a.m.
The Heart and Soul Tailgate party features the best in gospel talent, games, fun and food. Fans can start the day at McCracken Field, located just outside the Florida Citrus Bowl, with the best collard greens in the south from the winner of the Collard Green Cook-off along with soul food from some of the best restaurants in Central Florida.
* Fifth Annual MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney, 2 p.m.
This year’s event features the MEAC’s South Carolina State University against the SWAC’s Grambling State University. The game will be televised live to a national audience on ESPN2 HD and ESPN360.com. This will be the first time these two teams have met since 1994. The MEAC leads the series 3-1.
* Battle of the Bands – Florida Citrus Bowl (Halftime)
South Carolina State and Grambling State bands will hit the turf during half-time to entertain football fans with their innovative and upbeat routines in hopes of winning their own on-field battle.

Sponsoring this annual football game is part of Walt Disney World Resort’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, which helps drive growth, creativity and innovation. Evidence of that commitment is seen through the company’s involvement with such organizations as the FAMU Law School, Bethune Cookman’s Hospitality College, Disney Entrepreneur Center, African American Chamber of Commerce, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando, Florida Minority Supplier Development Council and Hispanic Business Investment Fund of Florida.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., May 15, 2009 – Making a clear connection between itself and the recent "shine on" sightings in Central Florida, Walt Disney World Resort is sending prize patrols across the region to surprise, reward and recognize recipients of its Disney’s Helping Kids Shine Grants and Disney Dreamers and Doers Shining Stars programs. By May 22, the prize patrols will have distributed a total of $700,000 to worthy non-profit organizations and 15 awards to local students.

"We are celebrating our community by shining a spotlight on some very deserving non-profits and students who help make dreams come true in Orange, Osceola, Lake, Polk and Seminole counties," says Eugene Campbell, vice president of Community Relations and Minority Business Development for Walt Disney World Resort. "Walt Disney World Resort is dedicated to building a better future for youth in Central Florida, and ultimately, a stronger community for us all."

Disney’s Helping Kids Shine Grants celebrate those who commit their time and talent to making a difference in the lives of Central Florida’s children. This year, Walt Disney World Resort is awarding grants to 34 Central Florida non-profit organizations that focus on children in four specific areas: connecting with adults, constructive use of free time, character development and compassion. Recipients are chosen by a panel of judges made up of Central Florida community leaders and Walt Disney World Cast Members.

Coalition for the Homeless Receives Disney’s Top Grants Award

The season of giving started on Monday when Walt Disney World Resort recognized the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida with its top Disney’s Helping Kids Shine Grant – the Bob Allen Outstanding Community Service Award – for the second year in a row. Mickey Mouse, along with Walt Disney World Resort President Meg Crofton, Allen family members and a Disney prize patrol, awarded $60,000 to the non-profit’s child development programs, which aim to instill values such as trust, honesty, integrity, responsibility, personal power and self-esteem.

"It’s humbling and a great honor to be recognized for our work with families," said Brent Trotter, President/CEO of the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida. "Families with children are the fastest-growing segment of the homeless population in Central Florida today. We’ve created a wide variety of services to meet the unique needs of the growing number of children who use the Coalition’s services, and are happy to have the support of Disney in our mission."

Disney Surprises Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Florida with $50,000

Mickey Mouse, joined by a Disney prize patrol, arrived at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Florida on Wednesday to honor the agency with the Dianna Morgan Children’s Champion Award in recognition of the magic the organization creates through youth outreach and mentoring.

"We couldn’t be more surprised or thrilled," said Jennifer Rider, Chief Executive Officer of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Florida, which received $50,000. "Thanks to Disney’s funding, we’ll be able to maintain our support staff that make and sustain our mentoring matches. They play a critical role in helping set our youth up for future success."

Dreamers and Doers Recognizes 15 Shining Stars

Out of the nearly 400 local students recognized as 2009 Disney Dreamers and Doers, 15 students have earned top honors as Disney Shining Stars – and visits from Disney prize patrols to celebrate their accomplishments.

Disney Dreamers and Doers rewards outstanding students who are improving their communities through volunteer service in Central Florida. Nominees are submitted by schools throughout Orange, Osceola, Lake, Polk and Seminole counties and chosen by panel comprised of community leaders and Walt Disney World Cast Members.

The recipients of the 2009 Disney Dreamers and Doers Shining Star Award include:

Orange County
Elementary School: Jillian Ortner, Sunrise Elementary School
Middle School: Natalia Rivera, St. Charles Borromeo School
High School: Jeanine Sinanan-Singh, Trinity Prep

Osceola County
Elementary School: Joshua Almonte, Ventura Elementary School
Middle School: Dominic St. Germaine, Kissimmee Charter Academy
High School: Amber Pettit, Harmony High School

Lake County
Elementary School: Meagan Dickerson, Cypress Ridge Elementary
Middle School: Chandler Watkins, Carver Middle School
High School: Lacey Morgan, Leesburg High School

Polk County
Elementary School: Shelby Fallin, Griffin Elementary School
Middle School: Patrick Davis, Southwest Middle School
High School: Ashley Greene, Ridge Community High School

Seminole County
Elementary School: Branson Mann, Sweetwater Episcopal Academy
Middle School: Raevon Redding, Tuskawilla Middle School
High School: Lauren Snyder, Paul J. Hagerty High School

All Disney Dreamers and Doers receive four theme park tickets, a certificate and a special pin. In addition, the 15 Disney Shining Stars receive a Mickey Mouse statue and Walt Disney World Annual Passes for themselves and their immediate families.

Now in its 26th year, more than 11,000 students in Central Florida have been recognized as Disney Dreamers and Doers.

By May 22, a total of 34 Disney’s Helping Kids Shine Grants and 15 top Dreamers and Doers Shining Stars will be awarded. Prize patrol reports and pictures will be posted on www.shineontoday.com so the community can follow the journey across Central Florida.

ORLANDO, Fla., May 12, 2009 – Shining a spotlight on services for homeless children in our region, the Walt Disney World Resort recognized the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida with its top Disney’s Helping Kids Shine Grants honor – the Bob Allen Outstanding Community Service Award – for the second year in a row.

Mickey Mouse, along with Walt Disney World Resort president Meg Crofton, Allen family members and other Disney dignitaries arrived at the Coalition’s facilities on Monday with a prize patrol to award $60,000 to the non-profit’s child development programs which aim to instill values such as trust, honesty, integrity, responsibility, personal power and self-esteem.

“It’s humbling and a great honor to be recognized for our work with families,” said Brent Trotter, Executive Director of the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida. “Families with children are the fastest-growing portion of the homeless population in Central Florida today. We’ve created a wide variety of services to meet the unique needs of the growing number of children who call the Coalition home, and are happy to have the support of Disney in our mission.”

Disney’s Helping Kids Shine Grants celebrates those who commit their time and talent to making a difference in the lives of Central Florida’s children. One of its top awards - the Bob Allen Outstanding Community Service Award - honors the late Bob Allen, who started his career at Disneyland in 1955 and ended his tenure with a decade-long period as vice president of Walt Disney World Resort. After his death in 1987, Allen’s family formed an endowment fund that assists local social service, environmental and humanitarian organizations.

During the next two weeks, Disney will send prize patrols across Central Florida to surprise, reward and recognize a total of 34 Disney’s Helping Kids Shine Grants recipients chosen by a panel of judges made up of Central Florida community leaders and Walt Disney World Cast Members. Prize patrol reports and pictures will be posted on www.shineontoday.com so you can follow along on the journey across Central Florida and track the total giving.

To learn more about the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida, visit: http://www.centralfloridahomeless.org/.

DISNEY JOINS FORCES WITH THE NATURE CONSERVANCY TO PLANT 2.7 MILLION TREES IN CONJUNCTION WITH FIRST WEEK TICKET SALES FOR DISNEYNATURE'S DEBUT FEATURE, "EARTH"

Burbank, Calif. – April 29, 2009 -- Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures has arranged with The Nature Conservancy to plant 2.7 million trees in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, one of the planet’s most endangered rainforests, it was announced by Dick Cook, chairman, The Walt Disney Studios. In keeping with the Disneynature EARTH’s themes of protecting the planet and its wildlife, Walt Disney Studios volunteered to plant a tree in honor of every moviegoer who saw the film during its first week of release. The motion picture grossed an impressive $16.1 million at the box office during week one and broke an opening day record as well as an opening weekend record for a nature documentary. The film also garnered the highest praise from critics and moviegoers alike.

Through its campaign to Plant a Billion Trees (www.plantabillion.org), The Nature Conservancy, one of the world’s leading international conservation organizations and its local partners are working to reforest 2.5 million acres of land and re-connect more than 12 million acres in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, one of the planet’s most endangered and ecologically significant rainforests. This restoration effort will allow hundreds of plants and animals to re-colonize their former habitats and will protect vital watersheds.

Commenting on the announcement, Cook said, “We’re proud to be working with The Nature Conservancy, one of the world’s most effective conservation organizations, in planting trees in the endangered Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Through the Conservancy’s Plant a Billion Trees campaign, we have an opportunity to honor those who supported ‘EARTH’ by making a tangible and lasting contribution to conserving globally-significant wildlife habitat. Our goal with Disneynature is to entertain and inform moviegoers about the wonders of our planet, and encourage them to learn more about what they can do to conserve nature.”

“Disney has created a spectacular portrait of our planet with Disneynature’s ‘EARTH’ and demonstrated their commitment to the planet by supporting our ambitious, large-scale reforestation effort to restore and preserve the magnificent Atlantic Forest,” said Mark Tercek, President and CEO of The Nature Conservancy. “We applaud Disney for their contribution to our effort to plant and restore one billion trees by 2015 in the Atlantic Forest, a global conservation priority area of rich biodiversity.”

Beth Stevens, senior vice president, Environmental Affairs, The Walt Disney Company, added, “We are thrilled that through the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund that we were able to expand a long relationship between Disney and The Nature Conservancy. The fund was established to support the study and protection of the world’s wildlife and ecosystems, and ‘EARTH’ presented the perfect opportunity to give back to our planet in this tremendous way.”

Where the Atlantic Forest survives, it presents some of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth. The region is home to more than 200 bird species and 60 percent of all Brazil’s endangered species. And, on fewer than two and a half acres, scientists have identified more than 450 tree species – more species than are found on the entire eastern seaboard of the United States. The forest also is important because it is the source of clean drinking water for 120 million people. Today, however, only 7 percent of the original Atlantic Forest remains in well-preserved but isolated fragments. The Nature Conservancy’s initiative in the Atlantic Forest contributes to the global effort by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to plant at least one billion trees worldwide each year, with a cumulative goal for 2009 of planting 7 billion trees worldwide.

Narrated by James Earl Jones, “EARTH” tells the remarkable story of three animal families and their amazing journeys across the planet we call home. “EARTH” combines rare action, unimaginable scale and impossible locations by capturing the most intimate moments of our planet’s wildest and most elusive creatures. Directors Alastair Fothergill and Mark Linfield, the acclaimed creative team behind the Emmy Award®-winning “Planet Earth,” combine forces again to bring this epic adventure to the big screen.

About Disneynature

Disneynature, the first new Disney-branded film label from The Walt Disney Studios in over 60 years, was launched in April 2008 to bring the world’s top nature filmmakers together to share a wide variety of wildlife subjects and stories with theatrical audiences. Earth, the first film to premiere domestically under the new label on Earth Day 2009, garnered a record-breaking opening weekend for a nature documentary. Walt Disney was a pioneer in wildlife documentary filmmaking, producing 13 True-Life Adventure motion pictures between 1949 and 1960, winning 8 Academy Awards (R). For more information about Disneynature, go to: www.disney.com/nature

About The Nature Conservancy

The Nature Conservancy is a leading conservation organization working around the world to protect ecologically important lands and waters for nature and people. The Conservancy and its more than 1 million members have protected nearly 120 million acres worldwide. Visit The Nature Conservancy at: www.nature.org

Anaheim, Calif. April 22, 2009 - The new central bakery at the Disneyland Resort, used by Cast Members to create the delicious treats Disneyland guests enjoy, opened last month boasting numerous environmentally friendly features.

As with all new construction at the Disneyland Resort, various environmental tactics were researched and implemented. One such initiative is the use of 14 solar tubes that provide natural lighting into the building, significantly reducing the need for electricity. Another effort in energy reduction is the use of ice makers that form an ice block over night and then send chilled water to the air conditioning system to help cool the entire building during the day.

In addition to saving energy, the building uses porous asphalt paving in the parking lot, which captures, filters and returns rain water back into the ground, serving as a natural recycling system. Water reduction is also a part of the conservation program with an underground sprinkler system that is used for the surrounding landscape. The system prevents water evaporation and works on a time clock with humidity sensors - reducing water usage.

"Being environmentally conscious is extremely important to us and we are proud that this new addition to the Disneyland Resort helps conserve resources in so many ways," said Disneyland Resort President Ed Grier.

The new, larger bakery was constructed in response to the Resort's continued growth. The new space is four times the size of the existing pastry kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel. Approximately 8 million products, ranging from wedding cakes to parfaits, are expected to be produced at the new bakery each year.

Silver Spring, Maryland, March 30, 2009 - The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) today announced that The Seas was granted accreditation by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission.

“The Seas has been awarded AZA accreditation because of its high standards in every aspect of its operations,” said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy. “Orlando should be proud to have one of the top facilities in North America as a valuable community asset and economic engine.”

To be accredited, The Seas underwent a thorough investigation to ensure it has and will continue to meet ever-rising standards, which include animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety. AZA requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process in order to be members of the Association, and are required to resubmit to this process every five years.

“Every visit you make to The Seas supports wildlife conservation.” Maddy added. “It’s an opportunity for families to get together and connect with conservation.”

The mission of the AZA Accreditation Commission is to establish, uphold, and raise the highest zoological and aquarium industry standards through self-evaluation, on-site inspection, and peer review. The accreditation process includes a detailed application and a meticulous on-site inspection by a team of trained zoo and aquarium professionals. The inspecting team observes all aspects of the institution’s operation in areas such as animal care (including living environment and daily enrichment), keeper training, safety for animals, staff, and visitors, educational programs, conservation efforts, veterinary programs, financial stability, risk management, visitor services, and other areas. The inspection team prepares an extensive written report for the Accreditation Commission. Finally, top officials are interviewed at a formal Commission hearing, after which accreditation is granted, tabled, or denied. Any institution that is denied may reapply one year after the Commission’s decision is made.

Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting an institution dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. With its more than 200 accredited members, the AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation, and your link to helping animals in their native habitats. For more information, please visit www.aza.org.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., March 16, 2009 – Showing power in numbers, approximately 5,800 Walt Disney World VoluntEARS teamed up this past weekend to extend their reach into local classrooms via the Disney Bowl-A-Thon. The two-day fundraising event, held March 14-15 at bowling centers across Central Florida, raised more than $ 237,000 for Junior Achievement; ultimately benefiting thousands of local children.

Junior Achievement is a non-profit organization that enhances economic education and programs by striking a balance between the business community and schools. Seeking to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy, Junior Achievement helps students connect the real world to what they learn in the classroom.

“We help students understand money and credit,” said Gary Blanchette, president of Junior Achievement of Central Florida. “We help provide solutions to financial illiteracy in America.” Thrilled to collaborate with Walt Disney World Resort, Blanchette explained that all of the dollars raised by the Disney Bowl-A-Thon go to work immediately. “Thanks to Disney, we can expand our mission in the classroom. Twelve-thousand children in Central Florida will benefit from Junior Achievement outreach,” said Blanchette.

Jessica Herrera, a Stonewall Jackson Middle School eighth grader, credits Junior Achievement for helping her understand the importance of her actions and improving her test scores. “Junior Achievement showed me that what I do today will impact the future that I have tomorrow,” said Herrera.

Disney VoluntEARS, along with volunteers from other companies, donate time teaching Junior Achievement curriculum for grades K-12 in schools across Central Florida. Funds raised from the Disney Bowl-A-Thon will go toward Junior Achievement programming, educator kits and classroom supplies.

Over the past 14 years, Walt Disney World Resort has raised more than $3.2 million for Junior Achievement.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., March 11, 2009 – As part of The Walt Disney Company’s first consolidated corporate responsibility report, Walt Disney World Resort released the 2008 Community Report that highlights the many ways the company remains actively involved in Central Florida.

The community report focuses on accomplishments related to the environment, workplace and community, with a special emphasis on children and families. The detailed snapshot also represents the latest phase in Disney’s longstanding heritage of corporate social responsibility and reflects a company-wide effort to build an integrated, transparent strategy for serving the needs of primary stakeholders, including guests, Cast Members, shareholders, business partners and local communities.

“Our commitment to the Central Florida community is unwavering,” said Meg Crofton, president of Walt Disney World Resort. “We are focused on helping to make this community an inviting and dynamic place to live, work and play, not only for ourselves, but also for our nearly two million neighbors.”

In 2008, Walt Disney World Resort and its Cast Members contributed approximately $32.5 million to local organizations for programs that focus on building a brighter future for children in Central Florida. In addition, Disney VoluntEARS donated more than 204,000 hours to benefit local non-profit organizations. Highlights from the report include:

The Environment

Walt Disney World Resort is committed to minimizing its overall impact on the environment as it encourages and inspires environmentally responsible behavior on the part of Cast Members, guests and business partners.

· In collaboration with Keep Brevard Beautiful and the Ocean Conservancy, Disney VoluntEARS participated in the 2008 Florida Coastal Cleanup, removing more than 3,500 pounds of trash and storm debris from the shores of Lake Fran in Orlando.

· Conservation biologists from Disney’s Animal Programs released a loggerhead sea turtle into the Atlantic Ocean as part of a program to raise awareness of threats to sea turtle survival.

· In April, Walt Disney World Resort completed the state’s Green Lodging certification program for its 23 Central Florida resort hotels and Disney’s Vero Beach Resort. The Florida Green Lodging Program is a voluntary state initiative that encourages hotels and motels to adopt cost-saving green practices that reduce waste and conserve natural resources.

Our Workplace

Walt Disney World Resort is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive and respectful workplace. In recognition of the magic Cast Members create for guests each and every day, Walt Disney World Resort offers a wide variety of programs, services and benefits that are designed to make a difference in Cast Members’ lives.

· In October, Walt Disney World Resort opened the Center for Living Well – a state-of-the-art, on-site health and wellness center – to provide eligible Cast Members and their families a “one-stop shop” for primary medical care and related services. The $6 million, 15,000-square-foot facility includes a pharmacy, lab, basic radiology, and wellness and behavioral health resources.

· With 62,000 Cast Members speaking 59 languages from 81 countries, diversity and inclusion are core values that drive growth, creativity and innovation at Walt Disney World Resort. The company received the highest honor at the 2008 Beacon Awards ceremony, which celebrates diversity in the greater Orlando-area workforce.

· Walt Disney World Resort is actively involved in cultivating the workforce of the future. In January 2008, the resort hosted Disney’s Dreamers Academy, an innovative program that aims to expose high-school students to creative and non-traditional career opportunities, while inspiring them to exceed the boundaries of their dreams and imaginations.

Our Community

A tradition of community service has been an integral part of the Disney heritage since the company’s early beginnings in Central Florida. That commitment extends from charitable giving to minority business development to generating tax revenue for the local community.

· In March, Central Florida celebrated the opening of a Boys & Girls Clubs facility in the Pine Hills area of Orlando. Walt Disney World Resort donated $1 million toward the construction of the new building which includes computer stations, learning centers, game rooms and a multi-purpose gym.

· Walt Disney World Resort awarded $700,000 in Disney’s Helping Kids Shine Grants to 38 Central Florida non-profit organizations for programs that focused on building better futures for children.

· During the 2008 Heart of Florida United Way Campaign, Cast Members contributed $3.2 million to help local agencies assist fellow residents in Orange, Seminole and Osceola Counties.

· Walt Disney World Cast Members conducted a successful Back-to-School Supply Drive, donating more than 6,000 backpacks to Central Florida students and more than 467,000 supplies to A Gift for Teaching.

· In August, Walt Disney World Resort helped bring a second Historically Black College and University football game to Central Florida. The MEAC / SWAC challenge brought thousands of fans to Central Florida from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference and the Southwestern Athletic Conference.

Disney’s 2008 Corporate Responsibility Report may be found at www.Disney.com/crreport.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., Feb. 24, 2009 -- Marine mammal experts from Walt Disney World Resort returned a manatee to its natural habitat today in the warm waters of the St. John’s River at Blue Springs State Park near Orange City. Approximately 3,800 endangered manatees exist in Florida.

The manatee, named “Bock,” was rescued as an orphan from the St. John’s River in 2001 as part of a manatee rehabilitation program managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. He arrived at The Seas with Nemo and Friends at Epcot in 2003 weighing about 500 pounds. At The Seas, marine mammal experts weaned him from the bottle and began feeding him a diet of romaine lettuce, fruits and other vegetables. After extended treatment and therapy, he now weighs more than 1,000 pounds and is approximately eight years old.

Bock’s release is timed to coincide with the arrival of several other manatees currently wintering at Blue Springs. During the next few months, he will be able to swim with other manatees, learn appropriate behaviors and hopefully return to Blue Springs again in search of warmer water.

Bock will be fitted with a satellite tracking belt to follow his movements and allow for behavioral observation after his release. His progress will be monitored by the Manatee Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP) in which Disney’s Animal Programs has been involved since 2001 when the MRP was established. The MRP is a cooperative group of nonprofit, private, state and federal entities that monitors the health and survival of rehabilitated and released manatees.

While the care associated with manatee rehabilitation at The Seas with Nemo and Friends was provided by Disney, Epcot guests have also helped other manatees in the wild by supporting the company-matched Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund (DWCF). The DWCF has contributed more than $348,000 for manatee research and awareness around the globe. Since its inception in 1995, the DWCF has supported manatee research and community conservation in countries including the United States, Belize, Guatemala and Gabon, and worked with organizations including Mote Marine Laboratory, University of Florida and the Wildlife Trust.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., Feb. 4, 2009 -- The Walt Disney Company has announced the creation of the Disney Memorial Pausch Fellowship at Carnegie Mellon University in recognition of the passion and energy Dr. Randy Pausch brought to his work at both Carnegie Mellon and Walt Disney Imagineering. Pausch is best known for his life-affirming "Last Lecture," which he delivered to his students and colleagues a few weeks after learning he had just months to live. Intended as a roadmap for his three young children, the lecture included his insights on finding the good in other people, working hard to overcome obstacles and living generously.

“Randy Pausch lived his life inspiring his students, colleagues and co-workers. Now, the vitality and energy he brought to his classroom lives on and serves as an inspiration to millions of people he never had the chance to meet,” said Disney President and CEO Bob Iger. “We are proud to honor Randy’s passion by supporting the innovators and dreamers of tomorrow with these fellowships.”

Pausch fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a Walt Disney Imagineer in 1995 when he joined the Imagineering Virtual Reality Studio during a sabbatical from his university teaching position. Imagineering, with its collaborative teams of artists, engineers, sculptors and software developers, proved the perfect environment for him. After his sabbatical was complete, Pausch continued as a consultant to Disney, and began nurturing a relationship between Carnegie Mellon and Disney through Imagineering’s internship program. Pausch earned his PhD in computer science at Carnegie Mellon in 1988 and was a professor in Carnegie Mellon’s Computer Science Department, Human-Computer Interaction Institute and School of Design from 1997 until his death in July 2008.

The Disney Memorial Pausch Fellowship will support two graduate students, one in the School of Computer Science (SCS) and one in the College of Fine Arts (CFA), reflecting Pausch’s enthusiasm for the interplay of arts and technology. His fascination with this type of synergy at Disney led to the development of Carnegie Mellon’s Entertainment Technology Center, a program designed specifically to foster collaboration between technologists and fine artists on projects intended to entertain, inform, inspire, or otherwise affect audiences. The Entertainment Technology Center’s Masters of Entertainment Technology degree is jointly conferred by Carnegie Mellon’s College of Fine Arts and School of Computer Science.

“Arts and technology are two pillars of strength at Carnegie Mellon,” said Jared L. Cohon, president of the university. “Randy Pausch was tireless in his efforts to bridge the gap between them by creating innovative classes and graduate programs, as well as through his own research. Disney’s generosity in sponsoring graduate fellowships in computer science and fine arts further establishes Randy’s educational legacy by benefitting talented students who share his passion for interdisciplinary collaboration.”

To mark Pausch’s achievements, a specially-themed medallion will be placed in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World and inscribed with words from his lecture: “Be good at something; it makes you valuable. Have something to bring to the table, because that will make you more welcome.” The unique artistic element is located near the Mad Tea Party (“tea cups”) ride, which was celebrated in a photo that Pausch displayed on his desk, showing his niece and nephew enthusiastically enjoying the attraction.

The relationship between Disney and Carnegie Mellon that Pausch nurtured continues to evolve. In August 2008, Disney announced a major Research and Development initiative to engage top technology universities to conduct research and development for many of Disney’s divisions. Disney Research, Pittsburgh, and its sister lab, Disney Research, Zurich, connect Disney with Carnegie Mellon and other renowned academic partners who have world-class science and technology talent. The labs will engage in research and development on computer animation, computational cinematography, autonomous interactive characters, robotics and user interfaces, among other initiatives.

ORLANDO, Fla., Aug. 27, 2008 – Officials from Florida Hospital today revealed new details about their visionary plans to shape the ‘Children’s Hospital of the Future,’ which will make a significant impact on children’s health throughout Central Florida and be a model for pediatric hospitals beyond the region.

The plans include sophisticated, interactive technology for patients; accomplished pediatric physicians who specialize in advanced, minimally invasive surgery; and a former United States Surgeon General who will provide leadership for the children’s health and policy platform. Administrators also unveiled the hospital’s new name, Disney Children’s Hospital at Florida Hospital. While The Walt Disney Company has long supported children’s hospitals both locally and around the world, Disney Children’s Hospital will be the first children’s hospital in history to bear the Disney name.

“This hospital will be on the forefront of technology and a model for patient experience that will be truly dedicated to the well-being of children,” said Marla Silliman, administrator of Disney Children’s Hospital at Florida Hospital.

One of the keystones of this visionary plan is the creation of a dedicated children’s emergency department that will be the first in the country to feature Ambient Experience Design solutions from Philips. First impressions set at the entrance, in addition to patient rooms and dedicated play areas, are designed to soothe young patients and their families. Areas throughout the department will feature lighting and design elements to bring the comforts of outside into the hospital setting. Patient treatment rooms will offer animation selections on the ceiling accompanied by soft lighting and music, allowing “escapes” to areas such as the beach or mountains.

“Philips is delivering a captivating and comforting, child-friendly space. We're incorporating the latest in clinical design and technologies, as well as elements, to provide calming, positive assurances to patients and their families,” said Brent Shafer, executive vice president and CEO, North America, for Philips Healthcare. “In collaboration with Disney Children’s Hospital, we're aiming to define the ‘Children’s Hospital of the Future.’”

Technology will extend to the in-room experience as well, where the first Interactive Patient Care technology of its kind in Central Florida will allow bedside access to the GetWellNetwork® Patient-Life System® so that pediatric patients can play video games, watch movies and surf the Internet. Parents may also view the latest information on childhood obesity, asthma, diabetes and other topics through patient education videos on the same system. “GetWellNetwork is excited to contribute our Interactive Patient Care technology to the ‘Children’s Hospital of the Future’ at Disney Children’s Hospital,” said Michael O’Neil, Jr., founder and CEO, GetWellNetwork, Inc.

“This technology enhances the patient experience and gives them access to interactive resources that educate and entertain to make their stay as comfortable as possible. With the touch of a keyboard or remote, patients or their parents can view vital health information and communicate with other areas of the hospital to help meet their health care needs.”

Joining the medical leadership of the hospital, Dr. Antonia Novello, former United States Surgeon General, will guide the children’s health and policy platform as the vice president of Women and Children Health and Policy Affairs. During her tenure as the first female and first Hispanic Surgeon General, Novello helped launch the Healthy Children Ready to Learn Initiative and actively promoted immunizations of children and childhood injury prevention efforts.

Also joining the hospital’s staff are Dr. Bryan C. Weidner and Dr. Christopher M. Anderson, who will provide advanced surgical services including minimally invasive procedures for pediatric patients. Minimally invasive surgeries require fewer incisions, reducing blood loss and hastening patient recovery. Weidner is board certified in general surgery, surgical critical care and pediatric surgery. Anderson is board certified in general surgery and board eligible in pediatric surgery.

“The addition of Dr. Novello to our staff is a real coup for Disney Children’s Hospital and the children of Central Florida and beyond,” Silliman said. “In addition, the skill and expertise of renowned pediatric surgeons and the Nicholson Center for Surgical Advancement will help keep us on the leading edge of surgical technology.” The new dedicated lobby and entrance for Disney Children’s Hospital is expected to open in mid-2009. The three-level lobby designed by Walt Disney Imagineers will feature several of the most beloved Disney characters from “The Little Mermaid,” “The Lion King,” “Brother Bear” and “The Jungle Book.”

“Walt Disney World Resort is committed to the dreams of children in our community, and we’re pleased to lend some of our magic to Disney Children’s Hospital at Florida Hospital,” said Shannon McAleavey, senior vice president of Public Affairs for Walt Disney World Resort.” This will be a special place that will enable children to use their imaginations in a unique, immersive environment that will contribute to their overall health and healing.”

In the lobby, children of all ages will be able to draw individual markings on a cave wall, create jungle sounds on musical step pads, fish for virtual salmon, or play in a magical world of popping bubbles and dancing sea horses. And each night as the sun sets, the lobby will transform into a celestial display as unique as each child, featuring constellations on the ceiling and a musical score created by the young patients.

“The partnership between Florida Hospital and Disney demonstrates that Central Florida is quickly becoming known just as much for medicine and science as it is for its thriving tourism industry,” said Lars Houmann, president of Florida Hospital and chairman of bioOrlando. “We believe Disney Children’s Hospital will provide the blueprint for other children’s hospitals in the future.”

Disney Children’s Hospital at Florida Hospital is currently undergoing construction and renovation, which is expected to be completed by 2010. The project continues to rely on the generous philanthropic support of the community.

When complete, the seven-story, 200-bed hospital will have family-centered pediatric rooms; a first-of-its-kind, dedicated pediatric Emergency Department featuring ambient lighting; an Advanced Center for Pediatric Surgery led by renowned surgeons; destination pediatric programs including advanced surgery, oncology, neurosurgery, cardiology, transplant services and full-service pediatrics; and an innovative Health and Obesity platform.