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A Behind the Scenes and Almost Underground Tour of Disney World By a Former Disney Cast Member
OK, OK, so you've been to Disney World about 87 times.
But how would you like an exclusive, private tour to see Walt Disney World as few ever will? As a former Disney World Cast Member I have volunteered to be your tour guide through the behind-the-scenes world of what makes Disney World so magical.
You'll have fun learning about a variety of backstage locations. We'll also take a peek under the Magic Kingdom Park and see Cast Member costuming, wardrobe, the so-called tunnel system, Disney's nursery and tree farm, waste treatment facilities and other service areas.
Let's start at the end, with sludge. Sludge from the water treatment facility is everybody's business dried out and then used on the grounds for fertilizer. Reclaimed tinkle water is used for watering grass and plants. The water valves are labeled "Reclaimed Water - Do No Drink" Thanks for the heads up, Mickey!
Now we'll visit the plant nursery. Remember all those cool and cute topiary designs around the park? Well, this is where Disney Cast Members grow and shape the topiary critters. All this coolness takes time; about seven to eight years to grow a single topiary character. One of my personal favorites is a smiling Mickey Mouse holding a Disney Vacation Club [http://www.edisneytimeshare.com] sign near the entrance to the Wilderness Lodge Hotel.
Then there is the parade storage area behind Splash Mountain. The back of Splash Mountain has many doors labeled, for example, "Access to Scene 31". Here you'll see Mickey Mania, Spectromagic, and the Electric Water Parade paraphernalia. You can walk around and look at the parade pieces all you want. But no photos please. The Spectromagic floats are made of mesh, so the driver can see out, and are covered with small Christmas-type lights controlled by computers. There is also a small fan to cool down the driver. If you or the kids have always wanted to look inside the Sea Witch float from The Little Mermaid, this is your big chance.
When I was a Disney cast member I strolled the tunnels on my breaks and dined in the underground cafeterias. Very romantic. Actually, the tunnels are fake. Since the water table is very high in Florida it would be costly to keep real tunnels dry. Disney thus built a neat system of utility corridors at ground level and then covered them with dirt. This made a new ground level one floor higher. The Magic Kingdom was built on top of this. Therefore, Main Street USA is actually on the second floor.
The "Utilidors" make a circle around the park connecting all of the Lands and rides. There is also a utility corridor under Main Street USA connecting the entrance to Cinderella's Castle. All of the Magic Kingdom utilities are nestled within the Utilidors. There is water, electricity, fiber optic cable, and the ultra-cool Vacuum Trash System.
The Disney World Vacuum Trash System has become a model for several other very large buildings, and even parts of cities and municipalities. The system uses pipes about two feet in diameter to suck all the trash to a central collection point.
Another unusual device in the Utilidors supplies the various odors to different parts of the park. There is one under the bakery that releases chocolate cookie smell into Main Street. Mickey wanted to use real cookie smell, as I recall. But, alas, there was no way to produce non-stop chocolate chip morsels. So, these odor producer machines are used for cookies and that just-right smell in many other places; smoke, orange groves, and so forth
The Utilidor also has various Cast Member services like a Credit Union, a 2-Hour Film Developer, cafeterias, and lockers. Costuming and wardrobe is also located down here. When I worked there I was always amused to see my favorite characters wandering around half dressed or carrying their heads. The walls of the Utilidors are color coded. There are also many maps and directional signs to help lost Cast Members (like me).
So when you visit Disney World for your 88th trip, keep an eye peeled for a sudden and magical character appearance. Mickey or Minnie may just pop out of a hidden door leading from the Utilidor below. And you'll know their secret!
A Behind the Scenes and Almost Underground Tour of Disney World By a Former Disney Cast Member
One Direction - Kiss You (Behind The Scenes)
Tube. Duration : 3.62 Mins.
One Direction - Kiss You (Behind The Scenes)
Music video by One Direction performing Kiss You (Behind The Scenes). (C) 2013 Simco Limited under exclusive license to Sony Music Entertainment UK Limited
One Direction - Kiss You (Behind The Scenes)
One Direction - Kiss You (Behind The Scenes)
One Direction - Kiss You (Behind The Scenes)
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Who Invented the Chocolate Chip Cookie?
Have you ever wondered who invented the chocolate chip cookie? Because chocolate chip cookies are so common, it is easy to forget that these treats have not been around forever. In fact, did you know that chocolate chip cookies are not even one hundred years old? It's true!
The answer to "who invented the chocolate chip cookie" is: Ruth Graves Wakefield.
Ruth Graves Wakefield was born on June 17, 1903 and she is person who invented the Toll House Cookie, which was the world's first chocolate chip cookie.
Ruth Wakefield was educated at the Framingham State Normal School Development of Household Arts and she graduated in 1924. After graduating from school, she worked both as a doctor and gave lectures about food.
In 1930 Wakefield and her husband purchased a lodge for tourists in Whitman, Massachusetts (part of Plymouth County). The lodge was first built in 1709 and has a long and rich history of its own. Many weary travelers have spent the night at the lodge as it is conveniently located around halfway between New Bedford and Boston. This is usually where passers through paid a toll, changed their horses and stopped for some much appreciated home cooked food. When the Wakefields bought it, they named the lodge the Toll House Inn and made sure to keep up with the lodge's traditions. All of the home cooked meals were prepared and served by Ruth and it was not long before her desserts earned her some local fame. There were many visitors to the lodge, one of the most famous being John F. Kennedy (when he was still a Senator).
In 1940, Ruth wrote a cookbook called Toll House Tried and True Recipes. Ruth passed away in 1977 and the Toll House Inn burned down at the end of 1983. While there are plenty of companies that make and sell chocolate chips now, the recipe printed on the back of the Nestle Toll House bags is the original Ruth Graves Wakefield recipe. As of today, Nestle is the only company with the rights to print the recipe on its bags. All of the recipes that are printed on other company's' bags are different from the original recipe.
The chocolate chip cookie was invented in the late 1930s (making it almost seventy seven years old) though there are different stories about how, exactly, the original chocolate chip cookie recipe was invented. Some stories say it was an accident, others say it was an experiment and still others say that it was a purposeful recipe. The story of how the chocolate chip cookie was invented varies according to the person telling the story. One thing is for certain, though, and that is that the answer to "who invented the chocolate chip cookie" is Ruth Graves Wakefield. Who knew that what might have started out as an experiment or an accident would someday be one of the most common treats in the Western World? Who doesn't remember eating chocolate chip cookies after school?
Copyright (c) 2008 Steven Magill
Who Invented the Chocolate Chip Cookie?
Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
Video Clips. Duration : 5.78 Mins.
Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
Music video by Carrie Underwood performing Two Black Cadillacs. (C) 2012 19 Recordings Limited, under exclusive license to Sony Music Nashville, a division of Sony Music Entertainment
Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
No URL Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
Kids Party Themes - The Top 20 Most Popular
Are you always looking for Kids Party Themes so you can make your child's birthday party the best ever? Well I've just found out the most popular kid party themes. Most of these party supplies come, not only with themed plates and cups, but with plenty of extras, like party favor boxes, little party favor ideas, balloons and the like to help you really accessorize your party theme from the start to the finish of your kids party.
Now for the list! According to one of the biggest online party supply companies, the top 20 most popular kids party ideas are:
Bolt: The story of a Hollywood Television Series Star. Bolt has grown up on a Television set. He stars in a series about a dog with superpowers. Bolt doesn't know he is an actor and his powers are created for the show. He gets knocked out and falls into a shipping box. Accidentally Bolt is sent to New York City. His powers don't seem to work for him when he awakens. Of course, we know why, but Bolt doesn't. He meets two friends, a cat named Mittens and a hamster named Rhino who lives in a plastic ball. His adventures finally bring him back to Hollywood and the friend he left behind, Penny, his TV co-star. Everyone knew this movie would make it onto the list of great kids party themes.
Disney Princess Fairy-Tale: There is no introduction needed for these Princesses! Who doesn't love the Disney Princesses! The Fairy Tale party supplies are very colorful and they have Cinderella, Ariel, Jasmine, Snow White, Belle and Aurora on the party accessories. Any little girl would love to use the Disney Princesses as her party theme! The Disney Princesses are always one of the top 20 kids party themes!
Fancy Nancy: Meet Nancy, who loves to be fancy! She is always in her tiara and her sparkly shoes. Nancy is a book character written by Jane O'Connor and has quickly become a popular reading book for kids and now she has become one of the most popular kids party themes. She thinks more is better when it comes to being fancy and she wears sparkling jewelry and boas! Nancy is a fun character and the books are a good story to read. This is what makes Fancy Nancy a popular kids party theme. Have a fashion show for your invited little Fancy Nancys!
Girl's Cupcake 1st: If it's your little girls first birthday party Girl's Cupcake 1st is the perfect party theme to go with. It's pink and pretty with one cupcake on each plate and cup. Cupcakes do make the perfect birthday cake for the little ones!
Hannah Montana: This TV series stars Miley Cyrus as a teen singing star. Tweens and Teens will enjoy a Hannah Montana party! Why not organize a Karaoke singing contest? You can video tape it and let your guests watch it before the party ends. Wait until you see the guitar pinata!
Lil' Prince 1st: If your little Prince is turning one is there any other party theme you should use? Little Prince says it all! These party supplies are blue with a crown on them. Perfect!
Lil' Princess 1st: Pretty, Pink and Princess...party accessories that are perfect for your little princesses first birthday party. No wonder it's on the list of most popular party themes.
Littlest Pet Shop: Aren't the littlest pet shop party accessories the cutest little animal assortment? Most kids are pet lovers so you can see why this party theme would be a big hit!
Mickey's Clubhouse: Mickey Mouse has to be on the list of the top 20 kids party themes! Mickey is everyone's favorite...along with Minnie Mouse and the rest of the Disney friends.
Mod Monkey 1st: Mod Monkey comes in two different patterns. One is plain, just Monkey decorating them. The second says "Monkeys 2nd" and it's the perfect party theme for your little Monkey's second birthday party.
Pink Poodles: Pink Poodles in Paris is a darling party supply set. The colors are pink and green, very girlish and very pretty. There are lots of party extras to buy so you can accessorize your party theme with everything from a cake topper, a pinata to a party favor to give each guest!
Pink Skull: For the little girls who want to be a Lady Pirate! These pink skull party supplies will give her the party she has been dreaming of! There are party stickers, pink skull coin purses and a pink "grow a skull" to give to each of your party guests as a favor. There are tons of fun ideas you can use and that's why it's on the list of the top 20 kids party themes.
Pokemon: The little Pokemon, or Pocket Monsters, have been a big party favorite for a while. It seems kids never grow tired of them.
Sesame Beginnings: Another first birthday party theme that is loved by youngsters! Sesame Street has been a kids favorite for many years and will be for a long time to come. These party accessories feature Baby Big Bird, Elmo and Cookie Monster...how cute they are...no wonder they are on the list of the top 20 kids party themes.
Star Wars: The Clone Wars: The release of the movie has given Star Wars another generation of fans! Invite Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker and Yoda to your child's party with these popular theme party ideas.
Super Mario Bros: Mario and Luigi are back to help celebrate your child's birthday! This is a brightly colored set of party accessories that are cheerful to look at and the Mario Brothers and their adventures will make for lots of good party fun ideas
The Dog: For the little dog lover in your family! If dogs are your child's favorite animal...this is the party theme for you. The plates are a close up of the sweetest little puppy...you're going to fall in love with him right away. It's easy to understand how this cute little guy made it onto the top 20 party themes list.
The Pig: Another close facial shot of cute little pigs, similar to the Dog. There are three different pigs on the party supplies, one cuter than the other. There is also a bean bag pig and a pig party favor box that includes a pig nose, a party activity book, some crayons, a pig blowout party noisemaker and stickers! Everything you need to make this party theme everyone's favorite.
Tony Hawk's BBHJ: Boom Boom Huck Jam with Tony Hawk made it to the top 20 kids party themes of 2008. You can plan lots of fun games with Tony Hawk as a theme for your child's next party. You can find lots of party ware and accessories including a skateboard pinata!
Wizard of Oz: Last on my list, but not least, is the Wizard of Oz party theme. There are plates with Dorothy and Glenda, the good witch, on them. Napkins with the ruby slippers and party favors that come in a straw basket...just like Dorothy had in the movie. The favor box includes: a frosted terrier cookie, mini star wand, ruby slipper lip gloss, Wizard of Oz sticker sheet and compact mirror...and will make a terrific party favor.
Now these top 20 kids party themes for kids certainly will give you a lot to think about Mom. Pick your child's favorite one and start to plan their next birthday party! I don't know about you, but there are one or two I may have to use for my own birthday party this year!
Kids Party Themes - The Top 20 Most Popular
Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
Video Clips. Duration : 5.78 Mins.
Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
Music video by Carrie Underwood performing Two Black Cadillacs. (C) 2012 19 Recordings Limited, under exclusive license to Sony Music Nashville, a division of Sony Music Entertainment
Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
No URL Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
150 New Money-Saving Container and Product Ideas for Making Personalized Gift Baskets
A standard willow basket is what usually comes to mind when people think of gift basket containers, but there are many other unique containers that can be used that will save you money. Often these containers are much more practical and have far more uses then a standard willow basket and are much more personalized. And a wide range of products for your custom gift baskets can be considered, beyond the usual scope of the traditional gift basket items or products. Many of the ideas will save you money and/or fit the frugal lifestyle. Some containers or products you may already own and will be essentially free. How about a gift you received that you can't use or item you bought and didn't use that will make a nice container or filler item?
Here's a list of gift container ideas to consider:
any type of basket, wicker basket, straw basket, bucket, laundry basket, plastic container, toy dump truck or other large toy truck, purse, tin, Christmas tin, seasonal container, large tea pot, large upside-down hat, plastic storage container-put lid underneath, extra-large coffee mug, boot, potted plant holder, wire basket, large pasta bowl, large popcorn bowl, cooking pot, clay pot, tackle box, colander, small wagon, skillet, antique trunk, champagne bucket, hamper, Asian-style trunk or picnic basket.
For items to put in the gift container it'll depend on the specialty or theme of the gift basket. Here is a random sampling to give you some good ideas:
small plant, disposable camera, a small book, inspirational book, spa pillows, bath pillows, spa supplies, bath and body products, facial and body scrubs, handmade soaps, fragrant soaps, shampoos, hand and foot lotion, fluffy towel, potholders, gift certificate for massage or spa visit, scented oils, scented massage oils, gift certificate to favorite store, gift certificate for restaurant, loofah, fragrant candle, matches to light candles, CD of nature sounds, favorite artist CD, DVD of newer release movie, how-to video or CD, garden trowel or other garden tools, garden gloves, work gloves, cold weather gloves, leather gloves, garden picks, seeds, hand lotion, flower pot, flavored teas, green tea, specialty tea, herbal tea, biscotti, tea infuser, small tools, gadgets, stuffed animals, toys, playing cards, healthy snacks, travel-size games, small puzzles, fancy chocolates, boxed chocolates, chocolate bars, hot chocolate mix, specialty coffee mix, handwritten poem, perfume, cologne, watch, framed photo, t-shirt, baseball cap, collectible cards, tickets to events, small dolls, homemade cookies, homemade brownies, homemade jams, movie tickets, popcorn, caramel corn, giant-size boxed candy, candy canes, suckers, lollipops, apple, pear, orange, persimmon, mango, papaya, chips, pretzels, nuts, plastic skulls, spiders, fake cob webs, magic shop items, coffee mug, gourmet pasta, gourmet olive oil, doggie biscuits, cat treats, dog or cat collar, dog or cat toys, stationery supplies, cooking tools, cooking gadgets, measuring spoons, receiving blanket, baby rattles, baby powder, baby shampoo, baby bath wash, hooded towels, pre-packaged food items, pancake mixes, brownie mixes, cookie mixes, wooden spoons, baby shower games, baby shower items , your best chocolate chip cookie recipe, Italian recipes, Mexican food recipes or other ethnic recipes, birthday poems, corkscrews , computer-related items, mouse pad, yarn, painting or artist supplies, golf balls, golf tees, golf knick knacks, tennis balls, tennis knick knacks, key chains, small calendars or desk calendars, barometer, outdoor thermometer, science gadgets, electronic gadgets, health-related items, auto-related items or cinnamon sticks.
So this should give you some unique, money-saving tips and ideas for more personalized, custom containers and products to use for your gift baskets. Many will be free and are much more practical than the standard wicker basket and traditional contents. I guarantee you'll love the results of your personalized gift basket and it'll be much loved and appreciated.
150 New Money-Saving Container and Product Ideas for Making Personalized Gift Baskets
Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
Tube. Duration : 5.78 Mins.
Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
Music video by Carrie Underwood performing Two Black Cadillacs. (C) 2012 19 Recordings Limited, under exclusive license to Sony Music Nashville, a division of Sony Music Entertainment
Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
No URL Carrie Underwood - Two Black Cadillacs
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