World of Color Hits The Road

WDWNT Author on June 28, 2010

California Adventure can no longer contain World of Color. Starting July 7th, Disney will travel to Four cities around California and take the animation from World of Color and project it for all to see. Disney will also be broadcasting the show live over the web in case you cant make it to one of the locations.

The Disney Parks Blog gave us a sneak peak on what the show will look like with this picture of the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Downtown Los Angeles.

Exact locations and dates have not been announced. You can find videos and follow the road show on its website, www.WorldofColorRoadShow.com.

Disney Legend Fess Parker Passes Away

WDWNT Author on March 18, 2010

From E! Online:

The King of the Wild Frontier is gone.

Fess Parker, the strapping star who played Davy Crockett in the hugely popular Disney television show of the 1950s, died today of natural causes at age 85, his family announced.

The actor, whose classic roles also included the son-consoling dad in Old Yeller and another ‘coonskin-cap-favoring frontiersman in NBC’s Daniel Boone, had retired from showbiz in the 1970s and founded a hugely successful winery and resort in Santa Barbara.

He was 85.

Fess Parker recieved a rare Frontierland window dedication at Disneyland in late 2004, as seen above. He was also one of the earliest Disney Legends honored back in 1991. From the Disney Legends website:

In the mid-1950s, when Fess Parker first donned a coonskin cap to play the American historical character Davy Crockett for a three-part Walt Disney television show, little did he know he was about to become a hero to Baby Boomers across the nation.

More than forty years later, in 1997, Fess described the profound influence his popular character had on young viewers. “Folks tell me over and over how much that character shaped their lives,” he said. “I have to believe that the impact of those programs was due as much to the values inculcated in them as to their entertainment quality.”

Fess was catapulted to fame almost overnight after “Davy Crockett Indian Fighter,” “Davy Crockett Goes to Congress,” and “Davy Crockett at the Alamo” debuted on the “Disneyland” television series, beginning in 1954. Even the ditty he recorded for Disney and RCA records, “The Ballad of Davy Crockett” was on the lips of every young boy (and girl) in America at that time, winning the actor a gold record. And when Disneyland opened in 1955, his personal appearance on horseback, as Davy Crockett, proved to be a huge crowd-pleaser.

Born in Fort Worth, Texas, on August 18, 1924, Fess grew up on a farm in San Angelo, Texas. Named after his father (“Fess” means “proud” in Old English), he graduated from the University of Texas in 1950, where he studied law and business administration. He then moved to Los Angeles, to pursue an acting career and studied drama at the University of Southern California. Shortly thereafter, he made his film debut in “Untamed Frontier,” starring Shelley Winters.

In 1954, Walt Disney spotted the actor in a film called “Them!” and quickly signed Fess to a Studio contract. He went on to star in such Disney films as “Westward Ho The Wagons!” “The Great Locomotive Chase,” “Old Yeller” and “The Light in the Forest.” He also starred in two additional Davy Crockett television shows: “Davy Crockett’s Keelboat Race” and “Davy Crockett and the River Pirates.” Much later, in 1978, Fess appeared in “NBC Salutes the 25th Anniversary of the Wonderful World of Disney.”

After leaving Disney, Fess donned his coonskin cap once again to play Daniel Boone. For six years, beginning in 1964, he starred in the popular television series by the same name and directed five of its most popular episodes.

Today, a successful businessman and real estate developer, Fess owns a winery in Los Olivos, California (near Santa Barbara) where he can often be found signing his autograph for wine and Disney lovers, alike.

BREAKING NEWS: Walt Disney Company Acquires Marvel Entertainment!

WDWNT Author on August 31, 2009

Burbank, CA and New York, NY, August 31, 2009 —Building on its strategy of delivering quality branded content to people around the world, The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) has agreed to acquire Marvel Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE:MVL) in a stock and cash transaction, the companies announced today.

Under the terms of the agreement and based on the closing price of Disney on August 28, 2009, Marvel shareholders would receive a total of $30 per share in cash plus approximately 0.745 Disney shares for each Marvel share they own. At closing, the amount of cash and stock will be adjusted if necessary so that the total value of the Disney stock issued as merger consideration based on its trading value at that time is not less than 40% of the total merger consideration.

Based on the closing price of Disney stock on Friday, August 28, the transaction value is $50 per Marvel share or approximately $4 billion.

“This transaction combines Marvel’s strong global brand and world-renowned library of characters including Iron Man, Spider-Man, X-Men, Captain America, Fantastic Four and Thor with Disney’s creative skills, unparalleled global portfolio of entertainment properties, and a business structure that maximizes the value of creative properties across multiple platforms and territories,” said Robert A. Iger, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company. “Ike Perlmutter and his team have done an impressive job of nurturing these properties and have created significant value. We are pleased to bring this talent and these great assets to Disney.”

“We believe that adding Marvel to Disney’s unique portfolio of brands provides significant opportunities for long-term growth and value creation,” Iger said.

“Disney is the perfect home for Marvel’s fantastic library of characters given its proven ability to expand content creation and licensing businesses,” said Ike Perlmutter, Marvel’s Chief Executive Officer. “This is an unparalleled opportunity for Marvel to build upon its vibrant brand and character properties by accessing Disney’s tremendous global organization and infrastructure around the world.”

Under the deal, Disney will acquire ownership of Marvel including its more than 5,000 Marvel characters. Mr. Perlmutter will oversee the Marvel properties, and will work directly with Disney’s global lines of business to build and further integrate Marvel’s properties.

The Boards of Directors of Disney and Marvel have each approved the transaction, which is subject to clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act, certain non-United States merger control regulations, effectiveness of a registration statement with respect to Disney shares issued in the transaction and other customary closing conditions. The agreement will require the approval of Marvel shareholders. Marvel was advised on the transaction by BofA Merrill Lynch.

Investor Conference Call:

An investor conference call will take place at approximately 10:15 a.m. EDT / 7:15 a.m. PDT today, August 31, 2009. To listen to the Webcast, turn your browser to http://corporate.disney.go.com/investors/presentations.html or dial in domestically at 800-260-8140 or internationally at 617-614-3672. For both dial-in numbers, the participant pass code is 51214527.

The discussion will be available via replay on the Disney investors website through September 14, 2009 at 7:00 PM EDT/4:00 PM PDT.

About The Walt Disney Company
The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise with five business segments: media networks, parks and resorts, studio entertainment, interactive media and consumer products. Disney is a Dow 30 company with revenues of nearly $38 billion in its most recent fiscal year.

About Marvel Entertainment, Inc.
Marvel Entertainment, Inc. is one of the world’s most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a library of over 5,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in licensing, entertainment (via Marvel Studios and Marvel Animation) and publishing (via Marvel Comics).

Forward-Looking Statements:

Certain statements in this communication may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements relate to a variety of matters, including but not limited to: the operations of the businesses of Disney and Marvel separately and as a combined entity; the timing and consummation of the proposed merger transaction; the expected benefits of the integration of the two companies; the combined company’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions and other statements that are not historical fact. These statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of Disney and Marvel regarding future events and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. Neither Disney nor Marvel undertakes any obligation to update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied. Such differences may result from a variety of factors, including but not limited to:

* legal or regulatory proceedings or other matters that affect the timing or ability to complete the transactions as contemplated;
* the possibility that the expected synergies from the proposed merger will not be realized, or will not be realized within the anticipated time period; the risk that the businesses will not be integrated successfully;
* the possibility of disruption from the merger making it more difficult to maintain business and operational relationships;
* the possibility that the merger does not close, including but not limited to, due to the failure to satisfy the closing conditions;
* any actions taken by either of the companies, including but not limited to, restructuring or strategic initiatives (including capital investments or asset acquisitions or dispositions);
* developments beyond the companies’ control, including but not limited to: changes in domestic or global economic conditions, competitive conditions and consumer preferences; adverse weather conditions or natural disasters; health concerns; international, political or military developments; and technological developments.

Additional factors that may cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements are set forth in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Disney for the year ended September 27, 2008, which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on November 20, 2008, under the heading “Item 1A—Risk Factors” and in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Marvel for the year ended December 31, 2008, which was filed with the SEC on February 27, 2009, under the heading “Item 1A—Risk Factors,” and in subsequent reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K and other filings made with the SEC by each of Marvel and Disney.

Important Merger Information and Additional Information:

This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a solicitation of any vote or approval. In connection with the proposed transaction, Disney and Marvel will file relevant materials with the SEC. Disney will file a Registration Statement on Form S-4 that includes a proxy statement of Marvel and which also constitutes a prospectus of Disney. Marvel will mail the proxy statement/prospectus to its stockholders.Investors are urged to read the proxy statement/prospectus regarding the proposed transaction when it becomes available, because it will contain important information.The proxy statement/prospectus and other documents that will be filed by Disney and Marvel with the SEC will be available free of charge at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov, or by directing a request when such a filing is made to The Walt Disney Company, 500 South Buena Vista Street, Burbank, CA 91521-9722, Attention: Shareholder Services or by directing a request when such a filing is made to Marvel Entertainment, Inc., 417 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10016, Attention: Corporate Secretary.

Disney, Marvel, their respective directors and certain of their executive officers may be considered participants in the solicitation of proxies in connection with the proposed transaction. Information about the directors and executive officers of Marvel is set forth in its definitive proxy statement, which was filed with the SEC on March 24, 2009. Information about the directors and executive officers of Disney is set forth in its definitive proxy statement, which was filed with the SEC on January 16, 2009.Investors may obtain additional information regarding the interests of such participants by reading the proxy statement/prospectus Disney and Marvel will file with the SEC when it becomes available.

Imagineer and Legend Marty Sklar Is Retiring

WDWNT Author on April 26, 2009

Marty Sklar, former head of Walt Disney Imagineering, a man who worked very closely with Walt Disney, and the only Walt Disney Company employee to attend the openings of all 11 Disney theme parks worldwide, has announced that he will finally be retiring from the company. The good people over at Orlando Attractions Magazine have obtained the letter Sklar emailed to various people in the company:

I’ve always thought that the two most important dates in Disney’s parks and resorts occurred in July and October. It was on July 17, 1955 that Walt realized his “dream come true” with the dedication of Disneyland. October 1, 1971 and October 1, 1982 marked the official opening days for the Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom and for Epcot (then “Epcot Center”).

There’s an extra relevance for me: I was a working Disney cast member for all three of these openings…and for the eight that have followed. From Tokyo to Paris, Orlando to Anaheim, and finally (so far!) Hong Kong, I’ve sweated the final details of construction, installation and sho w “buy-offs” leading to the openings of all eleven Disney parks around the world. It is with considerable pride that I can say, “I’m the only Disney cast member who has participated in all eleven of those openings.”

I’m anxious to join my fellow Imagineers at the next grand opening, too. But for me, the thrill of watching those gates open and the first guests eagerly racing to the attractions that are already their favorites, will be different next time. Because I’ll be cheering you all on from the sidelines, as a retired Imagineer.

I have decided to turn in my name tag on one of those prime dates: July 17. In 2009, that date will mark Disneyland’s 54th birthday, and my 53rd year as a Disney cast member. (I returned to UCLA after Disneyland’s first summer to finish my senior year, then returned to Disneyland’s public relations department in September 1956.)

Naturally, I’ve been thinking back over those 53 years, and what memories they are, starting with that summer day in 1955. I can still see Walt reading the dedication plaque at Disneyland’s opening. Little did I dream that day, as a 21=2 0year old, that I would spend parts of ten years writing personal material for that amazing man, one of the best known and loved in the entire world.

Of course, July 17, 1955 was just the first of those beautiful blank pages we would fill. It was my luck to be “the kid” among the pros…first in public relations at Disneyland, then at WED Enterprises, Walt’s own company – the home of the original Imagineers.

It was here at Imagineering, beginning in 1961, that my real education truly began. I owe much to UCLA (today I’m even a member of the Alumni Board of Directors), but my greatest “teachers” were right here in Glendale: John Hench, Dick Irvine, Herb Ryman, Claude Coats, Marc Davis, Blaine Gibson, Fred Joerger, Harriet Burns, Bill Martin, Rollie Crump, Roger Broggie, Bill Evans, Harper Goff, Bill Cottrell, Bob Jolley, Wathel Rogers, Yale Gracey. They were – they are – the true Legends, and though I was truly “the kid” among them, they accepted me and made me part of their team.

I had the privilege (as my own career grew from Staff Writer to Vice President of Concepts and Planning, and then to President and Vice-Chai rman and Principal Creative Executive of Imagineering) of working with so many amazing talents, past and present. The Legends defined Imagineer and Imagineering, and you have carried on in the tradition they established: the standard of excellence. Walt created Imagineering, but Imagineers made it sing and dance. What Imagineers design and build has few precedents, but many followers.

Today your ability to marry new stories and characters with the wonders of new technologies is exciting to watch. I have long marveled at the capacity Imagineers have for letting new genies out of their bottles, granting wishes large and small for millions of guests around the world every year.

When I became the creative leader of Imagineering in 1974, one of the first calls I received was from the CEO of Disney, E. Cardon Walker. Walt Disney World had just celebrated its third birthday. “Now,” Card said, “what are we going to do about Walt’s idea for Epcot?”

The next 30 years or so filled so many blank pages they are almost like one of those “flip books”, where everything’s a blur. We created nine more Disney parks, including the five in international locations. Imagineering lived up to its roots and truly became the premiere design, engineering and construction organization in the world. The traditions of passion for our product, great storytelling and inspirational risk-taking – the traditions begun by Walt and those original Imagineers – not only continued, they grew and spread across the oceans.

For the last three years, as your Imagineering Ambassador. I’ve had a great time speechmaking and writing about creativity and leadership. I think I exceeded Jay’s expectations when he asked me to take on this role. We have created “Imagineering Week at the Studio”, represented all of you at special events and talked to thousands on college campuses, at IAAPA and TEA, at conventions across the country and Disney programs and events around the world. And I’ve had fun (that’s our business!) writing for many Disney outlets, especially my philosophy and history communications through Sklargazing on the WDI website.

Now it’s time to turn the page. So many of you have asked that I have finally actually begun writing that book about the people, the places and the passions I have experienced as an Imagineer.

As I said three years ago when my “ambassadorship” began, I know you will keep on dreaming big dreams, and creating the newest and best in the world. I’ll still be looking over your shoulders, cheerleading, and filling new blank pages. It’s the most important Imagineering tradition.

Marty Sklar

Marty will certainly be missed from the company, but everyone here at the WDWNT Network wishes him a happy and healthy retirement!

Disney Thrives In Less Than Magic Economy

WDWNT Author on July 25, 2008

Here’s an interesting article from Forbes.com:

With the Walt Disney Co.’s dependence on consumers’ travel and entertainment budgets, many on Wall Street expected the company to fall victim to weak consumer spending. Disney has proved skeptics wrong over the last six months, beating consensus profit estimates by more than 13% in the December and March quarters and showing healthy sales growth at its amusement parks.

But concerns about consumer spending have worsened, reflecting high energy prices and troubles in the labor and housing markets. Disney (nyse: DIS – news – people ) shares have retreated close to the two-year low reached in January, presenting a buying opportunity for patient investors.

While near-term profit growth will likely be sluggish. Disney is well positioned to deliver double-digit yearly growth over the long haul. Disney, a long-term buy, offers superior total-return potential over the next 24 to 36 months.

Park Performance

Disney’s parks and resorts performed well in the year ended in March, with quarterly revenue growth ranging from 5% to 9%, including an 8% increase in the March quarter. Attendance rose at least 3% in each of the four quarters, and occupancy rates have averaged 89%.

Theme parks and resorts provided roughly 29% of revenue and 19% of profits in the six months ended in March. Disney credits the segment’s 28% profit growth to interest in popular themes featured at the park, such as tie-ins to the Hannah Montana and High School Musical franchises

Also contributing to growth is a focus on value-conscious travelers: 79% of Disney’s rooms are now considered midpriced or low-priced, compared with less than half of the rooms in 1991. In addition, international parks, new vacation-club sales and a weak dollar have contributed to resort growth. The dollar’s weakness attracts foreign tourists to the U.S. and keeps American vacationers in the country.

Long-Term Value

In the past, Disney’s parks have tended to suffer more toward the end of recessions, as families put off travel until their finances looked better. The company expects a slowdown in park growth over the next year.

While, investors may need patience with Disney, the company still has plenty going for it. Media networks (41% of revenue, 50% of profits) are delivering strong results on healthy advertising sales, particularly at Disney’s cable-TV stations. Despite disappointing results from this year’s Prince Caspian release, studio entertainment (23% of revenue, 21% of profits) should perform well in coming quarters, thanks in part to the popularity of Wall-E. Disney plans to release 10 animated films over the next four years.

Finally, Disney’s consumer products division (7% of revenue, 10% of profits) delivered revenue and profit growth of at least 20% in the six months ended March, helped by videogame launches.

Disney shares trade at 13 times estimated per-share earnings over the next 12 months, well below the five-year average forward price-to-earnings ratio of 17. Consensus estimates project per-share-profit growth of 21% in fiscal 2008, ending in September, and 6% in fiscal 2009. Disney’s valuation and modest 2009 profit target reflect downbeat expectations for consumer spending, and leave plenty of room for upside surprises.

2008 Shareholder Meeting News and Notes

WDWNT Author on March 6, 2008

Here are some notable happenings and quotes straight out of the 2008 Annual Meeting of Walt Disney Company Shareholders:

-An exclusive trailer from the upcoming theatrical release from Disney and Pixar, Wall-E, was aired only for those shareholders present for the meeting.

-The Disney company recently purchased rights to a book titled “Peter and the Star Catchers”, a prequel to the story of Peter Pan. When asked if a movie adaptation was in the works, Bob Iger said the company was actively looking into doing so.

-When asked about the possibility of a fourth Pirates film, the company has nothing to say at the moment.

-When questioned as to if the Walt Disney classic animated feature “Song of the South” would ever be released for home entertainment, Iger said there are no plans at the moment to do so.

-A particular shareholder asked if Disney would ever introduce an annual pass that would be valid at all the Disney Parks around the globe, Mr. Iger seemed to be interested in the idea.

-There are currently plans to bring older Disney archived footage (such as the Wonderful World of Color and the Disneyland program) to Disney.com in the near future.

-Disney is actively looking for new locations to place international parks and location based entertainment worldwide, nothing new on this front to report……yet.

-When asked about Disney fan podcasts out there, such as Inside the Magic or WDW News Today *cough*, Bob Iger said he looks to reach out to the Disney fan community as a whole in ways never seen before (WDWCelebrations? *cough, cough*). Bob Iger also went on to say he deeply appreciates all the devoted Disney fans out there. Yay for us!!!

-Bob Iger acknowledged that they are indeed creating a Rapunzel animated feature for a future theatrical release.

BREAKING NEWS: Disney Makes Huge Deal with Verizon Wireless

WDWNT Author on January 1, 1970

Disney has just issued the following statement:

November 12, 2008 – Marking a first in both the travel and mobile industries, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts and Verizon are teaming up for a multi-year relationship designed to enhance the guest experience – before, during and after guests arrive at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort.  This alignment allows guests to have a personal tour guide right in their wireless phones along with reliable new services at the parks. Early next year guests will also use Verizon Wireless’ technology when experiencing Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure, an ultra-interactive attraction coming to Epcot in Walt Disney World Resort.

“With more than 90 percent of families bringing a mobile phone into our Parks, our objective was to enhance the magical Disney experience through innovative wireless technology,” said Jay Rasulo, Chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.  “Imagine receiving up to the minute tips on special Park activities with just the touch of a button or receiving a call from Buzz Lightyear welcoming you to the Magic Kingdom.”

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. 

John Harrobin, senior vice president of digital media and marketing for Verizon, said, “All of our efforts focus on one goal: making the Disney experience even better for our customers.  There are few life experiences that are more memorable than visiting a Disney Park, and now guests with Verizon Wireless service will unlock even more magic from their visit – by navigating the Parks easier and faster with instant access to key information such as ‘Where’s Mickey now?’ and other special features – even when they travel home and share their experiences with family and friends.”

In addition, guests visiting Epcot in Walt Disney World Resort in early 2009 will be among the first to experience Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure.  An ultra-interactive attraction, Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure invites guests of all ages to team up with members of Team Possible to save the world from various comical villains and their mad inventions.  Armed with an official Verizon Wireless “Kimmunicator,” guests will use these handheld devices to help maneuver through the mission.  The interactive wireless theme park game was inspired by Disney Channel’s Emmy® Award-winning animated series, “Kim Possible.”  

While Verizon Wireless customers will have exclusive access to an array of enhanced features, Disney and Verizon are also working to ensure that some mobile information such as dining locations, show times and locations will be available to all Parks visitors, regardless of their wireless company.  

Additional details will be available next year as the companies expect to add a suite of services and functionalities to help guests at Disney Parks have the most magical experience.  For more information about Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, visit www.disney.com.  For more information about Verizon, visit www.verizon.com.  

Disney Parks and Resorts – Taking Guests to New Frontiers

The agreement between Disney and Verizon is another step in a series of new initiatives that highlight the latest technologies from Disney Parks and Resorts with a continued focus on improving guest experience and providing immersive entertainment. Disney Parks and Resorts continue to exemplify how technologies can be used to build new connections and redefine how guests plan and enjoy their vacations.  From the time guests begin planning their vacation using Walt Disney World Resort in 3D on Google Earth or tuning into Disney Travel on Demand, the experience is designed to make their lives easier.  Guests can take their vacation experience to a new level with Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure, an interactive wireless theme park game for families, and by personalizing and sharing their Disney experiences when they return home, using DisneyLink, a desktop application.

Now I can’t say we haven’t discussed some of these ideas for a while, but we weren’t always expecting Disney to align with Verizon for this content. Be sure to stay tuned to Disneyland News Today as we gather more information on this breaking news.

Marty Sklar’s Letter to Imagineers Announcing His Retirement After 53 Years

WDWNT Author on January 1, 1970

Marty Sklar, former head of Walt Disney Imagineering, a man who worked very closely with Walt Disney, and the only Walt Disney Company employee to attend the openings of all 11 Disney theme parks worldwide, has announced that he will finally be retiring from the company. The good people over at Orlando Attractions Magazine have obtained the letter Sklar emailed to various people in the company:

I’ve always thought that the two most important dates in Disney’s parks and resorts occurred in July and October.  It was on July 17, 1955 that Walt realized his “dream come true” with the dedication of Disneyland.  October 1, 1971 and October 1, 1982 marked the official opening days for the Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom and for Epcot (then “Epcot Center”).

There’s an extra relevance for me:  I was a working Disney cast member for all three of these openings…and for the eight that have followed.  From Tokyo to Paris, Orlando to Anaheim, and finally (so far!) Hong Kong, I’ve sweated the final details of construction, installation and sho w “buy-offs” leading to the openings of all eleven Disney parks around the world.  It is with considerable pride that I can say, “I’m the only Disney cast member who has participated in all eleven of those openings.”

I’m anxious to join my fellow Imagineers at the next grand opening, too.  But for me, the thrill of watching those gates open and the first guests eagerly racing to the attractions that are already their favorites, will be different next time.  Because I’ll be cheering you all on from the sidelines, as a retired Imagineer.

I have decided to turn in my name tag on one of those prime dates: July 17.  In 2009, that date will mark Disneyland’s 54th birthday, and my 53rd year as a Disney cast member. (I returned to UCLA after Disneyland’s first summer to finish my senior year, then returned to Disneyland’s public relations department in September 1956.)

Naturally, I’ve been thinking back over those 53 years, and what memories they are, starting with that summer day in 1955.  I can still see Walt reading the dedication plaque at Disneyland’s opening.  Little did I dream that day, as a 21=2 0year old, that I would spend parts of ten years writing personal material for that amazing man, one of the best known and loved in the entire world.

Of course, July 17, 1955 was just the first of those beautiful blank pages we would fill.  It was my luck to be “the kid” among the pros…first in public relations at Disneyland, then at WED Enterprises, Walt’s own company – the home of the original Imagineers.

It was here at Imagineering, beginning in 1961, that my real education truly began.  I owe much to UCLA (today I’m even a member of the Alumni Board of Directors), but my greatest “teachers” were right here in Glendale: John Hench, Dick Irvine, Herb Ryman, Claude Coats, Marc Davis, Blaine Gibson, Fred Joerger, Harriet Burns, Bill Martin, Rollie Crump, Roger Broggie, Bill Evans, Harper Goff, Bill Cottrell, Bob Jolley, Wathel Rogers, Yale Gracey.  They were – they are – the true Legends, and though I was truly “the kid” among them, they accepted me and made me part of their team.

I had the privilege (as my own career grew from Staff Writer to Vice President of Concepts and Planning, and then to President and Vice-Chai rman and Principal Creative Executive of Imagineering) of working with so many amazing talents, past and present.  The Legends defined Imagineer and Imagineering, and you have carried on in the tradition they established: the standard of excellence.  Walt created Imagineering, but Imagineers made it sing and dance.  What Imagineers design and build has few precedents, but many followers.

Today your ability to marry new stories and characters with the wonders of new technologies is exciting to watch.  I have long marveled at the capacity Imagineers have for letting new genies out of their bottles, granting wishes large and small for millions of guests around the world every year.

When I became the creative leader of Imagineering in 1974, one of the first calls I received was from the CEO of Disney, E. Cardon Walker.  Walt Disney World had just celebrated its third birthday.  “Now,” Card said, “what are we going to do about Walt’s idea for Epcot?”

The next 30 years or so filled so many blank pages they are almost like one of those “flip books”, where everything’s a blur.  We created nine more Disney parks, including the five in international locations. Imagineering lived up to its roots and truly became the premiere design, engineering and construction organization in the world.  The traditions of passion for our product, great storytelling and inspirational risk-taking – the traditions begun by Walt and those original Imagineers – not only continued, they grew and spread across the oceans.

For the last three years, as your Imagineering Ambassador. I’ve had a great time speechmaking and writing about creativity and leadership.  I think I exceeded Jay’s expectations when he asked me to take on this role.  We have created “Imagineering Week at the Studio”, represented all of you at special events and talked to thousands on college campuses, at IAAPA and TEA, at conventions across the country and Disney programs and events around the world.  And I’ve had fun (that’s our business!) writing for many Disney outlets, especially my philosophy and history communications through Sklargazing on the WDI website.

Now it’s time to turn the page.  So many of you have asked that I have finally actually begun writing that book about the people, the places and the passions I have experienced as an Imagineer.

As I said three years ago when my “ambassadorship” began, I know you will keep on dreaming big dreams, and creating the newest and best in the world.  I’ll still be looking over your shoulders, cheerleading, and filling new blank pages.  It’s the most important Imagineering tradition.

Marty Sklar

Marty will certainly be missed from the company, but everyone here at the WDWNT Network wishes him a happy and healthy retirement!

BREAKING NEWS: Walt Disney Company Acquires Marvel Entertainment!

WDWNT Author on January 1, 1970

Burbank, CA and New York, NY, August 31, 2009 —Building on its strategy of delivering quality branded content to people around the world, The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) has agreed to acquire Marvel Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE:MVL) in a stock and cash transaction, the companies announced today.

Under the terms of the agreement and based on the closing price of Disney on August 28, 2009, Marvel shareholders would receive a total of $30 per share in cash plus approximately 0.745 Disney shares for each Marvel share they own. At closing, the amount of cash and stock will be adjusted if necessary so that the total value of the Disney stock issued as merger consideration based on its trading value at that time is not less than 40% of the total merger consideration.

Based on the closing price of Disney stock on Friday, August 28, the transaction value is $50 per Marvel share or approximately $4 billion.

“This transaction combines Marvel’s strong global brand and world-renowned library of characters including Iron Man, Spider-Man, X-Men, Captain America, Fantastic Four and Thor with Disney’s creative skills, unparalleled global portfolio of entertainment properties, and a business structure that maximizes the value of creative properties across multiple platforms and territories,” said Robert A. Iger, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company. “Ike Perlmutter and his team have done an impressive job of nurturing these properties and have created significant value. We are pleased to bring this talent and these great assets to Disney.”

“We believe that adding Marvel to Disney’s unique portfolio of brands provides significant opportunities for long-term growth and value creation,” Iger said.

“Disney is the perfect home for Marvel’s fantastic library of characters given its proven ability to expand content creation and licensing businesses,” said Ike Perlmutter, Marvel’s Chief Executive Officer. “This is an unparalleled opportunity for Marvel to build upon its vibrant brand and character properties by accessing Disney’s tremendous global organization and infrastructure around the world.”

Under the deal, Disney will acquire ownership of Marvel including its more than 5,000 Marvel characters. Mr. Perlmutter will oversee the Marvel properties, and will work directly with Disney’s global lines of business to build and further integrate Marvel’s properties.

The Boards of Directors of Disney and Marvel have each approved the transaction, which is subject to clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act, certain non-United States merger control regulations, effectiveness of a registration statement with respect to Disney shares issued in the transaction and other customary closing conditions. The agreement will require the approval of Marvel shareholders. Marvel was advised on the transaction by BofA Merrill Lynch.

Investor Conference Call:

An investor conference call will take place at approximately 10:15 a.m. EDT / 7:15 a.m. PDT today, August 31, 2009. To listen to the Webcast, turn your browser to http://corporate.disney.go.com/investors/presentations.html or dial in domestically at 800-260-8140 or internationally at 617-614-3672. For both dial-in numbers, the participant pass code is 51214527.

The discussion will be available via replay on the Disney investors website through September 14, 2009 at 7:00 PM EDT/4:00 PM PDT.

About The Walt Disney Company
The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise with five business segments: media networks, parks and resorts, studio entertainment, interactive media and consumer products. Disney is a Dow 30 company with revenues of nearly $38 billion in its most recent fiscal year.

About Marvel Entertainment, Inc.
Marvel Entertainment, Inc. is one of the world’s most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a library of over 5,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in licensing, entertainment (via Marvel Studios and Marvel Animation) and publishing (via Marvel Comics).

Forward-Looking Statements:

Certain statements in this communication may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements relate to a variety of matters, including but not limited to: the operations of the businesses of Disney and Marvel separately and as a combined entity; the timing and consummation of the proposed merger transaction; the expected benefits of the integration of the two companies; the combined company’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions and other statements that are not historical fact. These statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of Disney and Marvel regarding future events and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. Neither Disney nor Marvel undertakes any obligation to update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied. Such differences may result from a variety of factors, including but not limited to:

* legal or regulatory proceedings or other matters that affect the timing or ability to complete the transactions as contemplated;
* the possibility that the expected synergies from the proposed merger will not be realized, or will not be realized within the anticipated time period; the risk that the businesses will not be integrated successfully;
* the possibility of disruption from the merger making it more difficult to maintain business and operational relationships;
* the possibility that the merger does not close, including but not limited to, due to the failure to satisfy the closing conditions;
* any actions taken by either of the companies, including but not limited to, restructuring or strategic initiatives (including capital investments or asset acquisitions or dispositions);
* developments beyond the companies’ control, including but not limited to: changes in domestic or global economic conditions, competitive conditions and consumer preferences; adverse weather conditions or natural disasters; health concerns; international, political or military developments; and technological developments.

Additional factors that may cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements are set forth in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Disney for the year ended September 27, 2008, which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on November 20, 2008, under the heading “Item 1A—Risk Factors” and in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Marvel for the year ended December 31, 2008, which was filed with the SEC on February 27, 2009, under the heading “Item 1A—Risk Factors,” and in subsequent reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K and other filings made with the SEC by each of Marvel and Disney.

Important Merger Information and Additional Information:

This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a solicitation of any vote or approval. In connection with the proposed transaction, Disney and Marvel will file relevant materials with the SEC. Disney will file a Registration Statement on Form S-4 that includes a proxy statement of Marvel and which also constitutes a prospectus of Disney. Marvel will mail the proxy statement/prospectus to its stockholders.Investors are urged to read the proxy statement/prospectus regarding the proposed transaction when it becomes available, because it will contain important information.The proxy statement/prospectus and other documents that will be filed by Disney and Marvel with the SEC will be available free of charge at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov, or by directing a request when such a filing is made to The Walt Disney Company, 500 South Buena Vista Street, Burbank, CA 91521-9722, Attention: Shareholder Services or by directing a request when such a filing is made to Marvel Entertainment, Inc., 417 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10016, Attention: Corporate Secretary.

Disney, Marvel, their respective directors and certain of their executive officers may be considered participants in the solicitation of proxies in connection with the proposed transaction. Information about the directors and executive officers of Marvel is set forth in its definitive proxy statement, which was filed with the SEC on March 24, 2009. Information about the directors and executive officers of Disney is set forth in its definitive proxy statement, which was filed with the SEC on January 16, 2009.Investors may obtain additional information regarding the interests of such participants by reading the proxy statement/prospectus Disney and Marvel will file with the SEC when it becomes available.