Around the Hub – Weekend Update

A few fun posts and bits of news to pass along tonight.

• I actually spent today at SeaWorld and had a great time. The crowds were decidedly light for a Saturday and lines were short (walked on Atlantis and Kraken). It was my first ride on both and I can definitely recommend Kraken, the first half just sort of warms you up and then the second half really turns the dial up. A great coaster.
• Robert Niles of Theme park insider has been on a bit of a tear recently looking at how theme parks can increase guest spending. His articles on providing better food service contain some real nuggets.
• I can always count on Cindy to keep an eye on the Disneyland Food Scene. This week she reports back on her dinner at the Chef’s Bar at the Napa Rose inside the Grand Californian. Get your taste bud’s ready.
• Sticking on the topic of food, the Disney Food Blog notes that the Wishes Dessert Party has been extended through the end of October. Many people have reported pleasant experiences here. It is certainly located at one of my favorite spots to view the fireworks.
• On Cable the A&E Network has completed its acquisition of Lifetime Network Channels. The Walt Disney Company is a partial owner of A&E. Next up Travel Channel and Discovery perhaps.
• The Disney Channel movie “Wizards of Waverly Place” drew 11.4 million viewers making it the most watched show on The Disney Channel this year. Additionally that places it the second biggest premiere on TDC only behind High School Musical 2. I’m predicting more from Disney’s answer to Harry Potter.
• John Lasseter talks animation and future of it at Pixar and Disney studios with Variety.
• Also read Charles Solomon’s review of ‘Starting Point‘ an anthology of animation master Hayao Miyazaki’s thoughs on the craft.