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Disney Partners with Verizon for In Park Facts and Fun

I’ll start by saying I’m not in favor of platform dependent services when it comes to mobile or wireless internet services. That said, I understand that this is the way things get built at Disney Parks. You have a great idea, you find a partner, and then you work with them to make it a win-win for both sides. Hopefully the guests get something good out of it too.

So what’s the big deal coming to the U.S. based Disney theme parks? How about a park guide with real time information on your mobile phone? It’s about time, I say. The ability to know how long a queue is without having to walk to the attraction yourself is practically invaluable to the Disney park goer. Finding last minute dining reservations, special deals, interactive games and adventures, and so much more offers to enrich the theme park experience dramatically.

Beginning next year, guests will be able to access an array of features on their Verizon Wireless phones while at the Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort to help them make the most of their Disney experiences. Planned services include an exclusive mobile application that will give guests with Verizon Wireless service the ability to easily locate shows, restaurants and the Disney characters anywhere inside the Parks; get real-time attraction availability information; access mobile games; receive messages from characters and more. Verizon Wireless is also continuing to invest in its wireless network from coast to coast, and the relationship with Disney means the wireless users will benefit from further enhancements to the Verizon Wireless network in the Parks.

Verizon gets access to millions of Disney guests each year and a good chance of converting frequent theme park visitors to their service. I hope they’ll also offer ‘test’ units to those who don’t currently have Verizon as a provider. If it’s cool and useful, it might be enough to make me switch. Any current Verizon Wireless users want to chime in with your experiences?

The full press release is below the cut:

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The ToonTown that Never Was

Over at the Disney and More blog Alain Littaye has been examining the amazing talent of Imagineer Hani El Masri. Today’s piece is a look at ‘Mickey’s Toonville’ the original cartoon inspired land designed for Tokyo Disneyland. Alas, when the original Disneyland opened its more… Read More »The ToonTown that Never Was

Club Libby Lu stores to close, including one at Disneyland

Saks operates the Club Libby Lu brand and has announced that all the stores will be closed by May 2009. That includes the store in Disneyland Resort’s Downtown Disney. I can’t say I’ve ever met anyone who even entered that store. (via CNN)

Disney influences Anaheim Councilwoman’s Race

When Lorri Galloway decided to back a high-end housing developer over the city of Anaheims primary meal ticket, Disneyland, she had to know she would be in for the fight of her life during the upcoming election cycle. As expected Disney has been helping her… Read More »Disney influences Anaheim Councilwoman’s Race

Pardoned Turkey to flock to Big Thunder Ranch at Disneyland

It’s not even Halloween, but that doesn’t mean it’s not too soon to start thinking about the fate of the poor defenseless little turkey that will end up served on the White House fine china this Thanksgiving. Oh wait, they’ll probably be pardoned by the… Read More »Pardoned Turkey to flock to Big Thunder Ranch at Disneyland

Some Sunday Sundries – Disney News Links

I’ve got whatever stomach virus that has been going around the Orlando area. So I apologize for the light blogging this weekend. Here are some links to what I’ve found interesting over the last few days. High School Musical 3: Senior Year is the valedictorian… Read More »Some Sunday Sundries – Disney News Links

Grim Grinning Ghosts performed by the ‘Cadaver Dans’

The ‘Cadaver Dans’ (aka, the Dapper Dans) get in the Halloween spirit with this rendition of “Grim Grinning Ghosts” from the Haunted Mansion. Thanks to Disney Parks YouTube Channel for making this available. I wish I could find the video from the 30th Anniversary Haunted… Read More »Grim Grinning Ghosts performed by the ‘Cadaver Dans’

Disneyland Paris misses it by that much

Disneyland Paris got closer than ever to showing a profit last year. Missed it by 2.8 million dollars. That and improved attendance numbers show they’re closer than ever to beginning to really pay down the debt that too many hotels saddled them with at opening.… Read More »Disneyland Paris misses it by that much