That quote has joined to tribute to space explorers at Mission: Space. Disney honored Barbara Morgan who recently returned to Earth, and the rest of the crew of space shuttle mission STS-118 by adding her quote to the Epcot attraction. We know Disney has a long history with space, but for me this little event is a sign of something more. Epcot's Future World is based on science, and sometimes I feel Epcot has moved away from that as it transforms to a more traditional theme park. This little ceremony and education session show that Epcot has not forgoten its scientific background while it still supports the dreams come true feeling that is incorperated at all Disney theme parks. Walt knew science could make his dreams come true, and we all know the many innovations that Walt created from the multi-plane camera, to audio-animatronics. The Walt Disney Company has trully been embracing technology lately, which has been bringing new things to discover all the time such as Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor and the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage. Those discoveries are made possible through science, and the home of science and discovery at Disney is Epcot. I hope Epcot continues to honor and embrace science as it enters its second quarter century. Who knows what might just be around the corner.
Quick Takes:
Media Networks: The View announced that Sherri Shepherd is a new co-host of the morning talker. If the name is familiar you might remember her from four years on ABC's Less Than Perfect. Of course that show has a special place in my heart, because I predicted that the show would not make it past its first season. Three years later, it was still on even though I was not sure why. Hopefully Cashmere Mafia will meet its end quickly so I can restore my honor.
Consumer Products: In response to the Mattel toy recall, Disney announced that it will be testing its toys for lead paint independtly of the licensed manufacturer. Disney wants to avoid the negative press associated with one of its toys being recalled. Even though Disney does not create the product, the press and the public might not be so discerning. It is great to see Disney taking ownership of their own brand like this. Hopefully no more toys will be need to recalled.
Studio Entertainment: OK, so I know this isn't really Disney news, but at the MTV Video Music Awards former Disney Channel star Shia LaBeouf announced that the next Indiana Jones movie will be called Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. (Not to be confused with Indiana Jones and the Temple of the Crystal Skull which is the attraction at Tokyo DisneySea.) If the rumors of Disney and Lucas becoming friendly again are true then this could have a huge impact on the Disney theme parks, especially Disney's Hollywood Studios. Interestingly, I recently took the Disney-MGM Studios Backlot Tour(they are going to have to rename that attraction), and the tour guide plugged the new Indiana Jones film which is coming out on Memorial Day. I wonder if that is a sign of things to come, or a tour guide just sharring her enthusiasm for the franchise.
Video of the Day: You can watch a replay of today's NASA/Epcot ceremony at http://www.disneyworld.com/nasa Of course stay tuned to Laughingplace.com, for I am sure they will have fantastic coverage as well.