Disney Invites Local Kids to Open Newest Ride

After a special welcome from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, seven pairs of kids and adults from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Florida helped officially open the newest attraction at Magic Kingdom Park. The crowning jewel of New Fantasyland, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is a fun, family-style roller coaster that features a first-of-its kind ride system in which cars pivot back and forth during the twists, turns and drops of the ride. The attraction is a spectacular addition to New Fantasyland and represents the completion of the largest expansion in Magic Kingdom history. Disney welcomed representatives from the local chapter of Big Brothers Big Sisters as part of the company's commitment to supporting nonprofit organizations that are making a positive impact on local children. "Our Bigs and Littles giggled and rocked their way through this fun adventure and will always remember being a part of the opening day magic for Seven Dwarfs Mine Train," said Jada Smith, chief executive officer for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Florida. Two other "bigs" - Orlando Magic basketball players Tobias Harris and Victor Oladipo - also joined today's official opening.

   

400 Students Named Dreamers & Doers

Central Florida students from kindergarten through 12th grade are making a difference within their families, schools and communities. Walt Disney World Resort recognized more than 400 of these young humanitarians as Disney Dreamers & Doers. Among the community service leaders, 15 were selected as Shining Stars - including a second grader who assists disabled students, an eighth grader who produced a documentary about South African girls' education and a high school senior whose guidance in fitness and nutrition helped a friend lose more than 100 pounds. "Through compassion, vision and hard work, these dedicated students act on their dreams of changing the world," said Nancy Gidusko, director of community relations for Walt Disney World Resort. In its 31st year, the Disney Dreamers & Doers program has recognized nearly 13,000 students who have consistently demonstrated outstanding character and led by example.

   

Disney Offers to Raise Minimum Start Rates to $9 in 2014, $10 by 2016 for Union Cast  

Walt Disney World leaders returned to the bargaining table with the Service Trades Council Union (STCU) today to continue negotiations on a new contract for more than 20,000 full-time Cast Members. In April, the company proposed increasing non-tipped minimum start rates for full-time STCU-represented Cast to $9 per hour this year, and to $10 per hour by July 2016. The rates would be effective upon union ratification. Under the proposal, Disney would also continue to pay, on average, 75 percent of Cast Members' health care premiums and maintain a pension, as well as offer a 401K (beginning 2016), for all full-time Cast hired before December 31, 2015. "The proposed raises reflect our commitment to industry-leading pay and benefits for our valued Cast Members," said George A. Kalogridis, president of Walt Disney World Resort. "We look forward to continuing constructive negotiations to reach and finalize a collective bargaining agreement." The company's current agreement with STCU, the largest union at the resort, extends through July 17. For more information, visit www.wdwnegotiations.com.

   

New Look Planned for Disney World Original 

Walt Disney World Resort recently unveiled plans for one of its original hotels, which will get a new look along with a retro name. At Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, the Nanea Volcano pool area, Great Ceremonial House and Club Disney children's activity center are being transformed, while new food and beverage experiences will be introduced. Planned for completion in 2015, the project will also include Trader Sam's Grog Grotto featuring a tropical lounge with handcrafted tiki cocktails and Polynesian-themed small plates. "In size and scope, the renovation and expansion of Disney's Polynesian Village Resort is a significant investment in the guest experience at Walt Disney World Resort," said Tom Wolber, senior vice president of resort operations and transportation operations for Walt Disney World Resort.

   

ALSO MAKING HEADLINES...

Disney Cast Members' flair for creativity and collaboration was on full display during the Rock Your Disney Side 24-hour event to kick off summer vacation season.

Disney recently donated 

$3 million to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children to help medical staff more quickly diagnose and provide life-saving care for young patients.

Through May 31, the recruitment team from Walt Disney World Resort will host an annual Summer Job Fair online to help fill 1,200 available roles.

Arabic, Finnish, Japanese, Spanish and Zulu are just some of the 50+ languages represented by  Cast Members from Disney Parks and Resorts around the world.

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