RENO, Nev., Oct. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The Cordillera International Film Festival (Cordillera) is proud to announce it has been named, for the second year in a row, to the “MovieMaker Magazine” list of “Top 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World for 2024”, selected from among 12,000+ film festivals worldwide. This designation puts Cordillera on the same list as Tribeca, Sundance and multiple other Oscar®-qualifying film festivals that have been running for decades. A complete list of the 2024 honorees can be found here. A recap video of this year’s fest is available here.

“Being recognized as one of the ‘Top 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World’ by “MovieMaker Magazine” is such an honor and to make the list two years in a row is such a testament to all of the hard work and passion our team puts into the festival,” said festival founder Emily Skyle-Golden. “At Cordillera, we’re dedicated to creating a fun and immersive experience for our filmmakers while introducing them to Northern Nevada. Seeing alumni return to make movies and engage in our community is a highlight of our efforts.”

Cordillera is also a “100 Best Reviewed Film Festival” on FilmFreeway. Submissions are now open for Cordillera 2025, which is now scheduled for October 2-6, 2024 in Reno-Tahoe, Nevada.

The 2024 Cordillera International Film Festival’s Grand Jury upheld its prestigious legacy, showcasing industry icons and rising talents. A few of the esteemed members included: Disney Legend Bill Farmer (Voice of Goofy for 37+ years); Script Supervisor/Writer: Dawn Gilliam (“Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” “Black Panther,” “Boyz in the Hood”); Producer/Showrunner: Philip Kruener (“Deadliest Catch”); Studio Executives: Bill Guentzler (Senior Vice President of Acquisitions & Operations for Gravitas Ventures) and Kelly Ward (Director for Disney Television Animation, past V.P. at MGM & Universal Studios); VFX Supervisor: Bilali Mack (“The Whale”). A complete list of the Grand Jury can be found here.

Cordillera hosted over 150 filmmakers including Lisa Edelstein (“House”), Kevin Lima (Director: “A Goofy Movie,” “Enchanted,” “Aladdin,” “Tarzan”), James Wolk (“Mad Men,” “Ordinary Joe”), Erik Griffin (“Murder Mystery,” “Workaholics”) and Manuel Rafael Lozano (“9-1-1,” “Teen Wolf: The Movie”) to the festival.

About Cordillera International Film Festival
As a champion of diverse voices, the Cordillera International Film Festival (Cordillera), located in the beautiful Reno Tahoe region of Nevada, has been recognized twice as one of the “Top 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” by MovieMaker Magazine, and is ranked in the Top 1% of over 12,000 film festivals worldwide by FilmFreeway. Cordillera features five days filled with 150+ films, celebrity panels, red carpet premieres, parties, and a Grand Jury made up of iconic industry leaders. More than 150 official selections screen throughout the five-day annual festival. For more information, visit www.ciffnv.org.

Media Contact: Heather Atherton
(916) 316-4568 | 384618@email4pr.com

SOURCE Cordillera International Film Festival

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cordillera-intl-film-festival-named-to-moviemaker-magazines-2024-top-25-coolest-film-festivals-in-the-world-list—two-years-in-a-row-302271910.html

“The Holiday Train unites people in the spirit of the season as it travels across Canada and the United States, while generating critical support for our neighbours in need through the program’s support of local food banks,” said Keith Creel, CPKC President and CEO. “We are pleased to again send this magical train on a four-week trip across our network spreading holiday joy as we collect food and raise money to fight food insecurity. We look forward to again seeing all the smiles and cheers from people young and old coming together in the spirit of giving.”

Holiday Train Highlights

• Since 1999, more than $24.3 million and over 5.3 million pounds of food for community food banks have been collected in Canada and the U.S.
• Visiting Saint John, N.B. for the first time.
• 167 live music shows in 7 provinces and 13 states.
• Performers include James Barker Band, Clerel, Tyler Shaw, Shawnee Kish, Magic!, Sofia Camara, American Authors, KT Tunstall, Tiera Kennedy, Seaforth, Alana Springsteen, The Lone Bellow.

“At the Airdrie Food Bank, we are thrilled to welcome the CPKC Holiday Train back to our community. This event brings families and neighbours together in the true spirit of the season, all while supporting the vital work of local food banks,” said Christine Taylor, Marketing and Communications Manager at Airdire Food Bank. “We deeply appreciate CPKC’s ongoing commitment to helping us ensure that no one in Airdrie goes hungry, especially during the holidays. It’s a heartwarming tradition that not only spreads joy but also gives back in a meaningful way.”

“We are thrilled to welcome the CPKC Holiday Train back to Mechanicville! With 26 years of dedication, the CPKC Holiday Train has been instrumental in helping us combat hunger and raise awareness about food insecurity in and around our local community,” said Tammy Alikonis, Director of Outreach & Development, Mechanicville Area Community Services Center. “It’s a festive way to kick off the holiday season, bringing the community together and supporting food pantries along the way. We are extremely grateful for their commitment and continued support! #ItTakesACommunity to build a stronger community!”

“There’s no energy quite like it. Every stop the CPKC Holiday Train makes, you can feel and see everyone coming together in kindness, strength and compassion,” said Tyler Shaw, Canadian singer and actor. “The music I get to perform on the train is the cherry on top, the real magic comes from how generous and loving the communities are. It’s powerful to be a part of!”

The Holiday Express train will make 13 public stops across CPKC’s network in Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. The festive six-car Holiday Express train with intricate displays inside and out will bring Santa Claus and his elves to visit children and families as it supports local food banks. 

A full schedule and details of this year’s Holiday Train and Holiday Express train is available at cpkcr.com/holidaytrain. 

Each event is free, with CPKC encouraging every attendee to make a monetary or heart-healthy food donation to ease hunger needs in their community. Local food banks will be accepting donations at each stop to help ensure those in need can access adequate food this holiday season and year-round.

About CPKC

With its global headquarters in Calgary, Alta., Canada, CPKC is the first and only single-line transnational railway linking Canada, the United States and México, with unrivaled access to major ports from Vancouver to Atlantic Canada to the Gulf of México to Lázaro Cárdenas, México. Stretching approximately 20,000 route miles and employing 20,000 railroaders, CPKC provides North American customers unparalleled rail service and network reach to key markets across the continent. CPKC is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Visit cpkcr.com to learn more about the rail advantages of CPKC.

SOURCE CPKC

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cpkc-unveils-2024-holiday-train-schedule-and-artist-lineup-302271875.html

CINCINNATI, Oct. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today shared its Halloween guide highlighting America’s favorite candies, hauntingly-good savings and wicked recipes to elevate any festive celebration this fall.

“Halloween is a special time of year when we can unleash our creativity, enjoy the company of family and friends and feel nostalgic about all things fall and ghostly,” said Carlo Baldan, group vice president of center store merchandising at Kroger. “Whether you’re preparing for trick-or-treaters, planning a Halloween party or staying in, Kroger is creepin’ it real with savings on customer favorite candies and treats for the whole family.”

From rich and chocolatey treats to sour and sweet options, customers have many options to choose from this season. However, Kroger revealed its customers will fill their baskets with Hershey’s REESE’S Peanut Butter Cups more than any other candy this Halloween, followed by Snickers and Kit Kat’s.* Try this year’s most-loved candies, paired with some bewitching libations and family-friendly sippers:

• REESE’S Peanut Butter Cups: Pair America’s favorite candy with iconic fall brews from Sam Adams, including Octoberfest and Jack-O Pumpkin Ale.
• Snickers®: Combine the rich chocolate, nougat and caramel flavors with a Caramel Apple Ice Cream Frappuccino, with medium roast coffee featuring sweet caramel balanced with bright apple flavor from customer favorite collection, Private Selection® Harvest Apple.
• Kit Kat®: Pair this top chocolate with more chocolate. Try a Kit Kat with a Haunted Hot Chocolate, with cayenne pepper to bring the heat. Spike it with bourbon or leave it out.
• Twix Bar: Couple the classic candy bar with a Spider Web Blood Orange Cooler. Get extra creative and try using black gel icing to create a spider web on the inside of cocktail glasses.
• Twizzlers: For a combination that’s neck-level, fruit-flavored Twizzlers and a family-friendly Vampire Party Punch will leave guests fang-ful for the invitation.

Customers can stock their candy bowls with Kroger’s scary-good deals on sweets and more, enjoying savings all season long on the following items:

• Stock up for trick-or-treaters with Jumbo Candy Bags from Hershey and Ferrero for the low price of $4.99 from Oct. 9 – 15 and howling-good options under $5 featuring favorites like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Snickers, Butterfinger, Skittles and more. Digital Deal Alert—Receive 25% off all Halloween candy with a digital coupon October 18-October 20.
• Make dinner simple on Halloween night with delicious options from Home Chef, including bone-in and boneless wings, pizzas and flatbreads. For a more festive holiday dinner, try sushi decorated as jack-o-lanterns, mummies and Frankenstein’s. Available for a limited time.
• Enjoy pumpkins of all varieties along with Pumpkin Masters® carving kits and all the supplies to create the perfect jack-o-lantern.
• Gear up for the big trick-or-treating with candy bowls and bags—if you are passing out treats or for your little ghouls.
• NEW this season the retailer is introducing the Kroger Franken Ropes Chewy Halloween Candy Bag, featuring a “Franken-Kroji.”

With candy in-stock and drinks chilling, check out even more Halloween inspiration and recipes to delight the whole family including Jack-o’-lantern Quesadillas, Graveyard Chili, Witch Hat Halloween Cupcakes and Gooey Frankenstein Crispy Rice Treats. Find more party ideas and recipes on Kroger’s blog, The Fresh Lane.

For even more scary-good deals and everyday savings, visit Kroger.com or the Kroger app, offering more than $600 in savings available weekly in digital coupons. With more than 30,000 mouthwatering possibilities, customers are a swipe away from inspiration to reality. Kroger is worth it every time.

Customers can shop for their Halloween party snacks and goodies in-store or through Kroger Pickup and Delivery, offering the same products at the same low prices no matter how they shop. Need last-minute items quickly? Try our new Express Delivery Service and save an additional $5 on your first two Express Delivery orders when you spend up to $75.

Save even more with Boost by Kroger Plus, the delivery membership that can save customers up to $1,000 per year on fuel and grocery delivery. Eligible customers can now try the Boost membership with a free 30-day trial and subscribe on a monthly basis for as little as $7.99. 

*Candy sales are projections for 2024 based on sales from the previous year during the same period.

About Kroger

At The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), we are dedicated to our Purpose: To Feed the Human Spirit. We are, across our family of companies nearly 420,000 associates who serve over 11 million customers daily through a seamless digital shopping experience and retail food stores under a variety of banner names, serving America through food inspiration and uplift, and creating #ZeroHungerZeroWaste communities. To learn more about us, visit our newsroom and investor relations site.

SOURCE The Kroger Co.

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kroger-shares-americas-favorite-candies-ahead-of-halloween-302271925.html

NUREMBERG, Germany, Oct. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — From 28 January to 1 February 2025, Nuremberg will again become the centre of the global toy sector. The international TrendCommittee, together with the Spielwarenmesse team, has identified two ToyTrends for the coming year: ‘Anime & Friends’ and ‘Healthy Heroes’. Relevant product examples will inspire trade visitors at their prominent position in Eingang Mitte, the central entrance. The ToyTrend presentations at the Toy Business Forum in Hall 3A will complement these with valuable additional information to help with range planning.

Fascinating world of Anime and Manga

The world of Anime and Manga characters resonates not only with children but with all other age groups too. The figures have status with fans and thus have an influence on pop culture and on a vast range of media including, for example, TV, video games, merchandise and, of course, toys. The ToyTrend ‘Anime & Friends’ displays products and licensing themes for children and teenagers from the field of Anime and Manga. Toys designed in the Japanese kawaii (Japanese for sweet or cute) style are also covered here. Figures with characteristically large eyes like Hello Kitty, including for example a smiling plush avocado, can similarly be found in this genre.

Improving wellbeing through the enjoyment of play

The ToyTrend ‘Healthy Heroes’ strengthens children in body and mind, uniting movement, mindfulness and healthy eating in one experience. The aim here is to arouse a consciousness of physical fitness in conjunction with emotional, mental and social health. At its heart are products that foster relaxation, meditation and physical activity, thereby promoting enjoyment and good mood. It seeks to strengthen a sense of self-esteem and self-confidence, and to encourage the expression of emotions, needs and indeed fears. Promoting healthy eating habits is a further element of this trend.

Discover and inform

The ToyTrends not only reflect current developments in the toy sector but also pick up on global societal issues. In the freshly designed, attention-grabbing Special Area at Eingang Mitte, the trends are illustrated with inspiring products on individual topic islands. It is a Special that invites visitors to discover and try out for themselves. At the Toy Business Forum in Hall 3A on the Tuesday and Thursday, trend expert Reyne Rice from the USA will be providing valuable insights into the 2025 ToyTrends. Full information on the subject can be found at www.spielwarenmesse.de/en/toytrends.

Spielwarenmesse^®

The world’s leading event for the sector – that’s the Spielwarenmesse^®. At this B2B event, key players as well as startups present their innovations and trends to retailers from all over the globe, live in Nuremberg. Alongside the extensive range of products, participants also gain a wealth of inspiration for day-to-day business together with valuable knowledge and useful guidance on the market, at what is for them the most significant industry gathering. The event is complemented by year-round coverage of themes, analyses and insights from the multifunctional platform Spielwarenmesse^® Digital and the e-journal ‘Spirit of Play’. Since 2013, the term Spielwarenmesse^® has been a protected word mark in Germany.

Fair date: Spielwarenmesse^®, Tuesday to Saturday, 28 Jan – 1 Feb 2025

Press Contact: Scarlett Wisotzki, Director Communications, Spielwarenmesse eG,
Phone: +49 911 99813-33, Mail: presse@spielwarenmesse.de

SOURCE Spielwarenmesse e.G.

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pop-culture-meets-a-sense-of-wellbeing-inspiring-toytrends-for-spielwarenmesse-2025-302269802.html

OLYMPIA, Wash., Oct. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Mega Millions, the lottery game that has produced a record six jackpot wins exceeding $1 billion, is getting ready for a “mega” overhaul with plans to be bigger and better than ever when the new and improved game launches in April 2025. Among the enhancements, players will benefit from:

• Improved odds to win the jackpot
• Bigger jackpots more frequently
• Larger starting jackpots
• Faster growing jackpots
• A built-in multiplier on every play, automatically improving every non-jackpot win by 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X or 10X – up to $10 million for matching the five white balls
• No breakeven prizes, meaning when a player wins, they’ll always win more than the cost of the ticket

“We are creating a game that both our existing players and people new to Mega Millions will love and get excited about playing,” said Joshua Johnston, Lead Director of the Mega Millions Consortium. “We expect more billion-dollar jackpots than ever before, meaning creating more billionaires and many more millionaires as the jackpots climb, plus this game will continue the important legacy of supporting great causes everywhere Mega Millions is played.”

When the new and improved game launches next April, tickets will cost $5 per play. This is only the game’s second price adjustment since the first ticket was sold more than 20 years ago and the first change since the current game matrix was adopted in 2017.

Since Mega Millions launched in 2002, it has produced six winners of billion-dollar jackpots. Since the last change in 2017 more than 1,200 players have become millionaires, an average of 3 millionaires per week.

Mega Millions is a national game with tickets sold in 45 states, Washington, D.C. and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Drawings are conducted at 11 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesdays and Fridays in Atlanta, Georgia. Lottery profits support a wide variety of good causes and are allocated differently in each jurisdiction.

CONTACT: media@megamillions.com

SOURCE Mega Millions

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mega-millions-to-get-mega-enhancements-in-april-2025-302267804.html

TORONTO, Oct. 4, 2024 /CNW/ – Spin Master, a leading global children’s entertainment company, reveals today an all-new member of the Hatchimals® toy family, the Hatchimals AliveTM Mystery HatchTM, celebrating the release with none other than Jason Kelce. The former Philadelphia Eagles center, New Heights Podcast host and most importantly dad to his three daughters, leans into his new role as sports commentator giving the full analysis of the magical new hatching experience.

“I love getting down on the floor and playing with my kids, you know dishing out the fun dad energy,” said Kelce. “Breaking down the Hatchimals play was wild, it taps back, there’s magical mist and then it hatches and you get to see who’s inside?! Hatchimals definitely scores points with the Kelce’s. Did you see how cute the Pufficorn is?”

True to his roots, Kelce is also teaming up with Spin Master to deliver the joy of play to kids this holiday season, with a toy donation in the works for children in Philadelphia as part of his upcoming “A Philly Special Christmas Party” album release on November 29, 2024. The toys donated will include the all-new Hatchimals Alive Mystery Hatch along with other Spin Master hot toys from popular brands including PAW Patrol®, Tech Deck®, Rubik’s® Cube and Kinetic Sand®.

Hatchimals Alive Mystery Hatch

• Something magical is finally here: introducing Hatchimals Alive Mystery Hatch. Featuring an exciting hatching experience with mist, lights, and over 100 sounds and reactions, these Hatchimals are a must-have, ready to hatch with the help of a child’s love! Insert the Hatchi-Wings into the egg and listen for the heartbeat. Nurture and cuddle the egg, then tap, lift, and rock it to encourage the character to hatch. The egg rocks and lights up, with sounds and reactions from the Hatchimal inside. Once enough love is given, the egg glows with a rainbow light, and magical mist appears, building anticipation. The Hatchimal will hatch, singing Hatchi-Birthday. There are endless ways to play with Hatchimals—pet, feed, play peek-a-boo, teach them to talk, give kisses, and more. They can even flutter their wings and dance. (Ages 5+)

“The original Hatchimals, released in 2016, captivated millions with over 14.2 million units sold,” said Spin Master’s Doug Wadleigh, President of Toys. “Now, a new generation of kids – including the Kelce kids  – meets the next generation of Hatchimals. The game-changing holiday favorite that once shook up the toy industry is now redefining toy magic with the launch of Mystery Hatch.”

Hatchimals Alive Mystery Hatch has a suggested retail price of $59.99 US and is available at major retailers today, October 4, 2024 – Hatchimals Day!

Follow along at @Hatchimals, @SpinMaster.

About Spin Master

Spin Master Corp. (TSX: TOY) is a leading global children’s entertainment company, creating exceptional play experiences through its three creative centres: Toys, Entertainment and Digital Games. With distribution in over 100 countries, Spin Master is best known for award-winning brands PAW Patrol®, Hatchimals®, Bakugan®, Kinetic Sand®, Air Hogs®, Melissa & Doug®, Rubik’s® Cube and GUND®, and is the global toy licensee for other popular properties. Spin Master Entertainment creates and produces compelling multiplatform content, through its in-house studio and partnerships with outside creators, including the preschool franchise PAW Patrol, and numerous other original shows, short-form series and feature films. The Company has an established presence in digital games, anchored by the Toca Boca® and Sago Mini® brands, offering open-ended and creative game and educational play in digital environments. Through Spin Master Ventures, the Company makes minority investments globally in emerging companies and start-ups. With 29 offices spanning nearly 20 countries, Spin Master employs close to 3,000 team members globally. For more information visit spinmaster.com or follow-on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @spinmaster.

SOURCE Spin Master Corp.

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/jason-kelce-takes-the-mic-for-a-play-by-play-unveiling-of-the-all-new-hatchimals-alive-mystery-hatch-819537005.html

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Oct. 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The Historic West Bottoms District is conjuring up its annual Boo in the Bottoms event, set to take place during First Friday Weekend, October 4-6. This festive shopping tradition blends spooky fun with vintage treasures, turning the district into a lively haunt for families and shoppers alike.

While the 50^th Celebratory-Scare Season is in full swing at night, during the day, the monsters from Edge of Hell and Beast Haunted Attractions will be out on the streets — offering lighthearted photo ops and meet-and-greets, minus the scares. A piano player entertains on a grand piano outside at 13^th and Hickory.

Adding to the Halloween magic, children are encouraged to wear costumes and trick-or-treat at participating stores, collecting goodies from the many shops offering unique finds, furniture, and décor. The streets of the West Bottoms will also welcome furry friends from Lucky 13 Rescue on Friday, where visitors can meet, pet, and even adopt dogs looking for their forever homes. It’s a  ‘howl’-loween occasion!

Saturday brings even more spooky fun with the Boos in the Bottoms KC Plant Collectors Plant Sale, featuring around 20 plant vendors setting up along the street. Shoppers can ‘dig up’ new additions to own while enjoying the festive Fall festivities outside.

“The district transforms into a spooktacular destination where stores embrace the Halloween spirit with haunted décor and special treats,” said Amber Arnett-Bequeaith, the Queen of Haunts and spokesperson for the district. “As we celebrate our 50th haunt season, Boo in the Bottoms has grown into a major event where families can experience a blend of shopping, entertainment, and community fun.”

As the night falls, the West Bottoms offers a thrilling change of pace with scare actors from the famed haunted attractions—The Beast, Edge of Hell, and Macabre Cinema—descend to their scare spots to perform by making fright fun. The haunted houses, open Thursday through Saturday in October, promise scary fun for those who dare to enter, making the West Bottoms the perfect spot for thrills both day and night.

The upcoming West Bottoms’ First Friday Weekend events include the Festival of the Full Moon:

• November: Blessings in the Bottoms, Nov. 1-3
• December: Bows in the Bottoms, each weekend in December prior to Christmas starting Dec. 6.

Boo in the Bottoms Weekend Highlights:

Halloween Fun and Meet & Greet Haunt Villains: Family-friendly fun with Scare Cast roaming outside from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and Sunday 12-3. Children are encouraged to wear costumes and trick or treat at participating stores. Beverage featured at the Full Moon Bar will be Spiced Smoking Hot Apple Cider.

West Bottoms Shopping: The Festival of the Full Moon Weekend kicks off with Boo in the Bottoms, October 4-6. Most shops will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Store hours may vary.

• • All Keyed Up Piano Shop www.allkeyeduppiano.com/
  • Bella Patina www.bellapatinakc.com
  • Blip Roasters www.bliproasters.com
  • Charmed House www.charmedhouseinteriors.com
  • Chef J’s Barbecue www.chefjbbq.com
  • Fetch www.fetchkcmo.com
  • Fountain City Winery www.fountaincitywinery.com
  • Full Moon Escape Games www.fullmoonescape.com
  • Good JuJu www.goodjujukc.com
  • Java Garage www.thejavagarage.com
  • Martin’s Memories www.facebook.com/martinsmemorieskc
  • Robins Nest www.facebook.com/therobinsnestwestbottoms
  • Rustic Vintage Rose www.facebook.com/RusticVintageRose
  • Serendipity www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063641434771
  • Stuffology – www.facebook.com/stuffologykc
  • Treasures on 13^th www.facebook.com/treasureson13thstKC
  • Ugly Glass www.facebook.com/UglyGlassCo
  • West Bottoms Bicycles www.worldclassbikes.com

Live Music: Enjoy the tunes of Anthony Perkins performing on a baby grand piano outside at 13th and Hickory from 12-3 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Lucky 13 Rescue: On Friday from 11 AM to 2 PM, visit Lucky 13 Rescue to view and potentially adopt dogs needing their forever homes.

Boos in the Bottoms KC Collectors Plant Sale: Saturday, October 5, 9-5pm and Sunday, Oct. 6 from 10-4, The Spookiest Sale of the year! This is the last West Bottoms Plant Sale of 2024! Wear your costume and come have a great time. Kansas City Plant Collectors plant sale right on Hickory Street on the south side of the 12th Street bridge. There are around 20 plant vendors. Common plants, rarer ones, and everything plant-related!

Food & Drink: Witches Brew libations are available at the Full Moon Bar, located at the corner of the Beast by Chef J BBQ. Satisfy your cravings with food trucks and various on-site vendors, including the Full Moon Street Bar, Chef J BBQ, Java Garage, Bella Patina’s 3rd Floor Painted Rooster Café, and West Bottoms Whiskey.

Haunted Attractions: Edge of Hell Haunted Attraction’s 50th season opening on Friday, September 13 at 7:30 p.m., and the legendary Beast Haunted Attraction opens September 13 at 7:30 p.m. September 27, Macabre Cinema Haunted Attraction opens at 8 p.m.

Full Moon Escape: the Escape Games have slots available and new games. Open Friday, 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM; Saturday, 10:30 AM – 10:30 PM; Sunday, 10:30 AM – 9:30 PM.

For more information on upcoming events and store details, visit westbottoms.com.

About the Historic West Bottoms Historic Entertainment District
The Historic West Bottoms Historic Entertainment District, located just off the 12th Street Bridge, has 22 warehouses in a thirteen-block area with approximately 600 vendors and more than 30 stores and restaurants. Many of its large, multi-story buildings have origins well over a century ago. These repurposed, vast spaces form the largest indoor vintage entertainment district year-round. The West Bottoms is the destination for interior decorators, designers, collectors, and consumers seeking stylish décor and gift options with a one-of-a-kind history and patina. westbottoms.com   

CONTACT: Amber Arnett-Bequeaith VP West Bottoms Entertainment District Assoc. 816.842.4280

SOURCE Historic West Bottoms District

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/haunt-down-the-best-vintage-gifts-and-decor-at-boo-in-the-bottoms-in-kansas-city-302267916.html

Today also marks the release of the captivating music video for Tokio Hotel‘s dynamic rendition of “Colors of the Wind” from Disney’s Pocahontas (1995). Bringing to life the song’s powerful message of environmental awareness and cultural understanding, the video is a must-see for fans of both the original and this new interpretation. View it HERE.

“We are very proud of our cover of ‘Colors of the Wind,’ simply because the song has such an important message, which has become even more relevant in today’s world. The Pocahontas song simply fits us perfectly as a band, because we stand for openness, respect and love. We are colorful and diverse and we like to show that. Our music video represents our deep personal connection with the movie and its message. Its Tokio Hotel meets Pocahontas and we simply love it!,” said Tokio Hotel vocalist Bill Kaulitz.

Missed the other music videos from the album? Don’t worry, Mickey and his friends have you covered with a YouTube playlist HERE. Experience the timeless classics “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” from The Lion King (1994) by Simple Plan and “I2I” from A Goofy Movie (1995) by Magnolia Park; relive the nostalgic bliss of New Found Glory‘s “Part of Your World” from The Little Mermaid (1989); dive into the electrifying energy of Yellowcard‘s “A Whole New World” from Aladdin (1992) featuring Chrissy Costanza; get ready to conquer the world with We The Kings‘ “Go the Distance” from Hercules (1997); and rock out to Plain White T‘s energetic rendition of “Surface Pressure” from Encanto (2021).

The album is also available digitally now on all major streaming platforms, including Apple Music, Amazon Music, and Spotify.

A Whole New Sound Tracklist

1. “Part of Your World” from The Little Mermaid by New Found Glory
2. “Remember Me” from Coco by Mayday Parade
3. “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” from The Lion King by Simple Plan
4. “I2I” from A Goofy Movie by Magnolia Park
5. “A Whole New World” from Aladdin by Yellowcard featuring Chrissy Costanza
6. “Go the Distance” from Hercules by We The Kings
7. “Surface Pressure” from Encanto by Plain White T’s
8. “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” from Toy Story by Meet Me @ The Altar
9. “You’ll Be in My Heart” from Tarzan by Boys Like Girls
10. “Colors of the Wind” from Pocahontas by Tokio Hotel
11. “Let It Go” from Frozen by LØLØ  
12. “Friend Like Me” from Aladdin by Bowling For Soup

About The Walt Disney Company

The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Entertainment, Sports and Experiences.

About Tokio Hotel

In 2005, the twins Bill and Tom, together with their bandmates Gustav and Georg, became teen stars as Tokio Hotel with the song “durch den Monsun” and captured the hearts of rock-punk fans overnight. Today, almost 20 years later, the band is one of the most popular German bands with international success, with four number one singles in Germany and Austria and over ten million records sold. Their sound encompasses several genres, including pop rock, alternative rock and electronic rock. The band members are just as versatile as their music, and they all have one thing in common: they like to reinvent themselves time and time again. Themes such as openness, respect and love are fundamental values that the band repeatedly focus on at their gigs, in their lyrics and in their private lives. They have thus become the voice of a generation. After their North and Latin America tour in December 2024, the band will embark on their long-awaited European tour with 16 concerts in 2024 – 7 of them in Germany (e.g. in Cologne, Hamburg, Hanover and Berlin). Their new Disney cover song “Colors of the Wind” is now part of their repertoire.

For photos and a high-resolution cover, visit https://spaces.hightail.com/space/YbxTjcQgRV 

Media Contact:
Bruce Lam
The Walt Disney Company
Bruce.Lam@Disney.com 

Erik Stein
Scoop Marketing for A Whole New Sound
estein@solters.com  

SOURCE The Walt Disney Company

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ANAHEIM, Calif., Oct. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — There’s nothing like a visit to Disneyland Resort. Whether it’s a special occasion, the vacation of a lifetime, or just a day full of fun, families can start planning now to celebrate in early 2025 with new offers coming soon and great ways for families to save on their next trip. The Disneyland Resort always provides a wide variety of ticket, dining and hotel options, and promotional offers during the year to help families save on their vacations. Visitors can check Disneyland.com for the latest offers and discounts. 

The Disneyland Resort has announced the return of a limited-time kids’ special ticket offer to Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, and special savings at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort in Southern California, to welcome as many families as possible.

For a limited time, children ages 3 through 9 can visit a Disneyland Resort theme park for as low as $50 per child with this 1-Day, 1-Park ticket.* These specially priced tickets go on sale Oct. 22, 2024, for visits Jan. 7-March 20, 2025. Offering a variety of options and flexibility, guests may choose from 1-Day, 2-Day or 3-Day park tickets, and upgrades such as Park Hopper tickets and Lightning Lane Multi Pass are available to add-on. Reservations are required and subject to availability.

In addition to the kids’ ticket offer, guests may check the theme park reservation calendar for select days priced at $104 per day, so the adults in the group can save on their visit too.

Tips for making core magical memories with kids

From a child’s unforgettable first visit to young families enjoying visiting again and again, here are a few ways to make magical memories to last a lifetime:

• Character experiences top the list of heartwarming moments, be it a hug from beloved pals such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Pluto or Goofy, to meeting Disney Princesses in Fantasy Faire at Disneyland Park, encountering Super Heroes in Avengers Campus or posing with Lightning McQueen in Cars Land at Disney California Adventure Park.
• In Mickey’s Toontown, families and young children can play together in this animated neighborhood which features green space to unwind, interactive play areas and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, where guests of all ages can embark on a zany adventure through the cartoon world of Mickey Mouse.
• A child’s first “big kid ride” might be the new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (40 inches or taller), opening Nov. 15, 2024, which will be an exciting musical journey through the bayou with Princess Tiana and her friends, featuring a few daring plunges and fantastical storytelling.
• Shows at Disneyland might be a child’s first experience with live entertainment. Various performances include Storytelling at Royal Theatre in Disneyland Park and “Disney Jr. Dance Party!” at Disney California Adventure Park.
• At Pixar Pier in Disney California Adventure Park, little ones can take a spin on Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind, or for the older kids, a ride on the high-speed Incredicoaster. In addition to five attractions, families can dine on playful bites and drinks and perhaps meet a character from a favorite Pixar story.
• Memorable meals are always on the vacation agenda, and families can also enjoy classic Disney treats like churros, popcorn and Mickey Mouse ice cream bars, alongside healthier options such as fruit, snack mixes and yogurt.

Save up to 25 percent on select stays at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort

Disney vacationers who wish to stay and play in the heart of the magic may enjoy special savings with room offers at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort. Hotel guests can save up to 25 percent on select stays of four nights or longer weekdays or weekends** at any of the three on-site hotels, or save up to 20 percent on standard and premium rooms at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the Disneyland Hotel and The Villas at Disneyland Hotel, and up to 10 percent on guest rooms at Pixar Place Hotel, Sunday through Thursday nights,*** based upon space availability. These room offers may be reserved beginning Oct. 22, 2024, for stays Jan. 7-March 20, 2025.

The Hotels of the Disneyland Resort offer easy, convenient access to both parks and the Downtown Disney District, with benefits and distinctive touches that only a Disneyland hotel can provide.

Whether it’s celebrating the artistry of animation at Pixar Place Hotel, the mid-century modern nostalgia of Disneyland Hotel, or appreciating Craftsman-style elegance at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, staying at any of these themed resort hotels provides an extra dose of Disney from check-in to check-out.

Plus, for guests visiting sooner, hotel offers as much as 15 percent off select stays at the Disneyland Hotel, The Villas at Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa may be available Oct. 20 through Dec.19, 2024. Check Disneyland.com for availability.

Benefits of staying at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort

• Disneyland Resort hotel guests enjoy convenient theme park access. To enter Disney California Adventure Park, guests staying at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa or Pixar Place Hotel each enjoy dedicated entrances, while guests of all three hotels enjoy quick access to Disneyland Park via the Downtown Disney District Monorail station, and all are in short walking distance of both parks.
• Early Entry offers park admission to a designated theme park 30 minutes earlier than the general public to enjoy select attractions, dining and shopping, and is only available for guests who stay at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort with a valid theme park ticket.****
• Additional benefits Disneyland Resort hotel guests enjoy include preferred access to a limited number of hotel restaurant reservations; charge-to-room options, allowing guests to charge dining and shopping purchases from the theme parks right to their room; and direct-to-room service, so guests can check in online and go directly to their room when they arrive with the use of the Disneyland app.
• Special hotel activities and seasonal events such as the “Learn to Draw” class, movie nights, holiday festivities, recreation and more.
• At Pixar Place Hotel, guests can meet Bing Bong from “Inside Out” and listen to Joe Gardner from “Soul” play piano.
• Character wake-up calls can be made by request, newly featuring Meilin Lee of “Turning Red” at Pixar Place Hotel.
• Plus, Disneyland Resort hotels offer character dining experiences at Goofy’s Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel, and Storytellers Cafe or Princess Breakfast Adventures at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa.

Pro tips, time-savers and more ways to save

• Later this fall, Disney+ will introduce a specially priced, multi-day Disneyland Resort ticket offer available for subscribers in the U.S. and Canada on select days through the 2024 holiday season. Additional details will be shared at a later date.
• Guests can plan in advance to find dates and price points for the best savings on tickets and hotels. Bundling these into Walt Disney Travel Company vacation packages may come with added perks such as a collectible pin and lanyard and discounts on dining and merchandise.
• To capture the vacation memories, unlimited Disney PhotoPass digital downloads are included with the purchase of Lightning Lane Multi Pass.
• The Disneyland app offers useful information including attraction wait times, park hours, entertainment schedules, character appearances, restaurant menus, dining reservations, mobile order and other helpful features.
• Visit planDisney.com as another helpful digital resource offering insights from knowledgeable planDisney panelists who answer personalized questions about Disney vacation destinations, with more travel tips and ways to save.

For more information and to book a Disneyland Resort vacation, visit Disneyland.com or contact your travel professional.

*Offer valid for children ages 3-9 only. Tickets valid for use beginning January 7, 2025, and multi-day tickets expire 13 days after the first day of use or on March 20, 2025, whichever occurs first. Each day of use constitutes one full day of use. May purchase up to 10 tickets per day. Tickets are nonrefundable, may not be sold or transferred for commercial use and excludes activities/events separately priced.  Offer may not be combined with other ticket discounts or promotions. Subject to restrictions and change or cancellation without notice. Sales may be paused from time to time or terminated at any time.

Children should be supervised. Guests under age 14 must be accompanied by a Guest age 14 or older to enter a Theme Park. To board an attraction, children under age 7 must be accompanied by a person age 14 years or older. Other park rules apply.

To enter a park, both a theme park reservation and a valid ticket for the same park on the same date is required. Theme park reservations for Kids’ Special Offer Ticket holders are limited in number and subject to the availability of park reservations allocated to the Kids’ Special Offer Tickets as determined by Disney and theme park capacity. Reservation availability for Kids’ Special Offer Ticket holders is not guaranteed for any date, and reservations may be difficult to get for any particular date, especially as the ticket expiration date approaches.  To ensure best availability, make reservations early.  On any given date, park reservations may be available for general theme park tickets even though park reservations allocated to the Kids’ Special Offer Tickets are fully reserved. Kids’ Special Offer Ticket holders are not entitled to any reservations Disney makes available to others.  Parks, attractions, entertainment, experiences, services, and offerings may be modified, limited in availability or unavailable, and are subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed.  Visit Disneyland.com/updates for important information to know before visiting Disneyland Resort.

**A consecutive 4-night or longer stay is required, and cancellation of any nights of a stay may affect discount availability.  Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room stay at the same hotel and is valid for most nights from 1/7/2025 through 3/20/2025.  Book from 10/22/2024 through 3/7/2025; travel must be completed by 3/21/2025.  Not valid for select Concierge rooms, Signature or Premium suites, or 2 Bedroom or 3 Bedroom Villas. Not valid on previously booked rooms.  Advance reservations required.  Subject to availability as the number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Excludes applicable fees and taxes. Limit two (2) rooms per reservation, and occupancy restrictions apply per room. Additional per-adult charges apply if more than two (2) adults per room. Offer applied once per reservation and is not valid in combination with any other hotel discounts or offers.  Subject to restrictions and change or cancellation without notice.  Separate Theme Park admission and Theme Park reservation for same date and same park required to enter a Theme Park, and a hotel reservation does not guarantee theme park access. Visit Disneyland.com/updates for important information to know before visiting the Disneyland® Resort.

 ***Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room stay at the same hotel, and is valid for Sunday through Thursday nights from 1/7/2025 through 3/20/2025.  Book from 10/22/2024 through 3/7/2025; travel must be completed by 3/21/2025.    Not valid for select Concierge rooms, Signature or Premium suites, or 2 Bedroom Villas and 3 Bedroom Villas. Not valid on previously booked rooms.  Advance reservations required.  Subject to availability as the number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited.  Excludes applicable fees and taxes.  Limit two (2) rooms per reservation, and occupancy restrictions apply per room. Additional per-adult charges may apply if more than two (2) adults per room. Not valid in combination with any other hotel discounts or offers.  Subject to restrictions and change or cancellation without notice.  Separate Theme Park admission and Theme Park reservation for same date and same park are required to enter a Theme Park. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability, and not guaranteed, and a hotel reservation does not guarantee theme park reservations. Visit Disneyland.com/updates for important information to know before visiting the Disneyland® Resort.

****Guests who are checked in and staying at one of the Disneyland Resort hotels can take advantage of 30-minute early entry to a designated theme park every day of their hotel stay to enjoy select attractions, dining and shopping locations. Each day, either Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park will open early: Disneyland Park: Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday; Disney California Adventure Park: Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Please check the theme park calendar for park opening times. Valid theme park admission and a park reservation for the same park on the same date are also required for Guests (ages 3+). Park reservations are limited, subject to availability and not guaranteed. A Disneyland Resort hotel reservation does not guarantee a theme park reservation or park admission.

About the Disneyland Resort 

Located in Anaheim, Calif., the Disneyland Resort features two spectacular theme parks – Disneyland Park (the original Disney theme park) and Disney California Adventure Park – plus three hotels and the Downtown Disney District dining, entertainment and shopping complex. The Hotels of the Disneyland Resort are Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the Disneyland Hotel – both AAA Four Diamond properties – and Pixar Place Hotel. When it opened on July 17, 1955, Disneyland introduced the world to a new concept in family entertainment and continues to use creativity, technology and innovation to bring storytelling to new heights. Open daily, year-round. For more information, guests can visit Disneyland.com.

SOURCE Disneyland Resort

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Annual collaboration with nonprofits including First Book brings the power of books to under-resourced communities

NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Throughout October, Disney and Lucasfilm Publishing are collaborating with First Book, a nonprofit dedicated to educational equity, and other nonprofits for the 13th annual Star Wars Reads month, a celebration that brings the power of books and storytelling to the next generation of storytellers. This year, Star Wars Reads activities focus on supporting under-resourced communities across the country by providing book donations and assistance from Disney VoluntEARS, as well as classroom resources and activity kits. Participants will also have exciting opportunities to engage with authors of Star Wars books.

“Books, comics, and magazines are a treasured and timeless way for readers all over the world to immerse themselves in the excitement of a galaxy far, far away. By collaborating on Star Wars Reads with organizations like First Book, Blue Star Families and New York Edge, we can share the joy of reading with fans of all ages,” said Michael Siglain, creative director, Lucasfilm Publishing.

Lucasfilm Publishing and First Book will kick off the celebration with a livestream event available to First Book’s Network of more than 600,000 educators, professionals and volunteers serving students in under-resourced communities. Disney Publishing will donate nearly 60,000 books across the country, through donations to schools and at community events hosted by nonprofit organizations in First Book’s Network. At these events, children will be invited to pick out their favorite books, including Star Wars titles, to read and take home at no cost. Additional Star Wars Reads offerings include an activity kit with games, puzzles and trivia from RH Children’s Books, Insight Editions, DK, Abrams, Random House Worlds, Chronicle Books, Thunder Bay Press and National Geographic Kids.

Star Wars Reads events include:

• Livestream Event:
  • Oct. 1, 2024: The Read, You Will: A Brave Journey into the Galaxy livestream will include classroom activities, as well as a virtual class visit and Q&A with Star Wars authors Charles Soule and his daughter, Rosemary Soule. The Soules will read from their picture book, Star Wars: The High Republic: Jedi Brave in Every Way, engaging participants in discussion questions and prompts.
• Community Events: 
  • Oct. 26, 2024: Educators and families will be invited to a special Star Wars Reads Family Festival in New York City, N.Y., hosted by  New York Edge, the largest provider of free after-school programming in New York City and Long Island.
  • Later this year, hundreds of military kids and families will celebrate Star Wars Reads at a special event held by Blue Star Families—a nonprofit dedicated to empowering military families to thrive—at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Fla.

“Books offer so many benefits for children, influencing everything from overall well-being to academic performance. We believe the joy and wonder of reading helps spark imaginations in kids that opens doors to new worlds, inspires creativity and fosters a lifelong love for learning. However, too many children don’t have access to essential resources,” said Dana Bond, executive vice president, Strategic Alliances, First Book. “Disney’s support helps us eliminate these barriers, not only during Star Wars Reads month, but year-round.”

For more than 23 years, Disney has played a crucial role in supporting First Book and its Network of educators and students in underserved communities, creating opportunities that foster future generations’ development.

In August 2024, Disney provided new grants to further support this important mission, including funding the purchase of books for educators across the country through the First Book Marketplace. These grants build upon Disney’s ongoing support of First Book, including financial contributions, book donations, assistance from Disney VoluntEARS and access to skilled Disney experts.

To learn more about Disney’s commitment to empowering the next generation of storytellers and innovators, visit Impact.Disney.com.

About Disney Publishing
Disney Publishing is one of the world’s largest publishing brands, igniting imagination through storytelling in ever-inventive ways. As part of the Disney Experiences segment, Disney Publishing and its affiliates bring the magic of The Walt Disney Company’s powerful brands and franchises, including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, ESPN, 20th Century Studios, National Geographic and Andscape, to fans everywhere. Disney Publishing, through its vertical publishing operations and global licensing structure, creates and publishes best-selling books, comics, magazines, learning and digital interactive storytelling products, audio books, eBooks, and apps. Headquartered in Glendale, California, Disney Publishing publications and storytelling products are available in more than 70 countries in 45 languages.

About First Book
Education transforms lives. First Book is building a world where every child has access to a quality education. We work to remove barriers to education and level the playing field for kids in need. At the heart of our work are the more than 600,000 members of the First Book Network, the largest online community of individual educators, professionals and volunteers dedicated to supporting children in need across North America. This Network is the key to creating systemic change. Founded in Washington D.C. in 1992 as a nonprofit social enterprise, First Book is dedicated to eliminating barriers to learning and inspiring young minds. Learn more at www.firstbook.org.

SOURCE Disney Consumer Products

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