Newsletter 13 August 2007

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Yavn Speaks!

This week Yavn's got hot info on VMK's newest game, plus important news about VMK Central at Walt Disney World. It's Tiki Month in VMK now let's "talk Tiki!" Wake up, Yavn – it's showtime!

BRAND NEW VMK Trading Card Game! Get the scoop now!

Ahhh! Buenos dias VMK'ers and welcome to another edition of Yavn Speaks! Hope you're all having a good summer, there's lots to talk about this week, so let's dig in!

Your Attention Please…

First up, I have an important announcement I need to get out of the way… there's really no easy way to say this, so here goes – on September 30th we're closing VMK Central at Walt Disney World. Now hold on, before you get upset and start sending hate mail, let me explain why this is happening…

As time has gone by, we've changed the way Quest, rewards and other parts of VMK work. The game, very much like our theme parks, is always changing. We've always tried to experiment with unique ways of doing things, like in-Park Questing, and we'll continue to do that (for example, we'll still be doing cool stuff in the Parks, like the merchandise cards and the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage Quest) - but those things won't revolve just around VMK Central.

Just because VMK Central is closing doesn't mean the game is going away.

VMK is going stronger than ever and we've got some very cool announcements (including one I'm making today) about how VMK will get even better. Yes, I know you'll miss Questing in the real Magic Kingdom, but like I said, this is part of a much larger plan for cooler VMK stuff.

So there you have it, sad news sort of, but you have plenty of time to complete those in-Park Quest. Just remember VMK Central in the Cinema on Main Street at the Magic Kingdom will stop accepting Quest and giving out rewards after September 30th, 2007!

Okay, so now that I've taken care of the "elephant in the room" (hey, it must have escaped from the Jungle Cruise) let's talk about some really cool stuff on the VMK horizon.

Thanksgiving in September!

You spoke (boy, did you ever) and we listened. By overwhelming popular demand the next item in the snack cart series is, drum roll please& the brand new Turkey Leg Cart!

It's the snack that eats like a meal!

Of course the next question you have is "When can I get one???" All I can say about that is early September. Sure, we should wait until Thanksgiving to release it but who wants to wait that long?

It's the NEW Tiki, Tiki, Tiki, Tiki Shirt

Speaking of new items, we've got plenty more on the way – like the new Hawaiian Aloha Shirt – it'll look great with that new Cowboy Surf hat, you'll be able to pick up both of these in the Emporium and then be ready to hit Typhoon Lagoon in style!

Aloha, cowboy!

Surfing isn't your cup o' tea? Then how about some baseball? Just in case you missed them last year, America's pastime returns to VMK, with hat, shirt, pants and shoes – and a stadium room batting clean up! Look for all these items in our VMK shops before September.

Game On!

Remember last month when I promised you the lowdown on a cool new VMK game? Well, now it's time to pull back the curtain on that game and reveal the latest and greatest from VMK Labs. Today I'm proud to announce the VMK Trading Card Game!

Here's a sneak peek at the brand new VMK Trading Card Game!

The best way to describe the game is as a mix between the card games Trumps and War. It's an awesome game that's a lot of fun. This month we'll be releasing a preview version of the game that will teach you the basics of how to play, then over the next few months we'll be adding some more functionality to the game and rolling out more advanced rules. Oh and before you ask, there are some NEW items we created to go along with the VMK Trading Card Game&.but that's for another column…

More News on the Way!

Alright, that should wrap it up for now, hopefully you're still with me and not too upset about the news. Again, remember what I said and don't think of this as the end of an era, but the beginning of something just as incredible. The new items I've mentioned above like the snack cart series, the Trading Card Game, there's lots of great VMK stuff on the way!

Oh, almost forgot to mention, remember our Mickey rewards? We have a few items that were originally going to be released as Quest prizes. What should we do with them now? Do you think they should be sold/rewarded in-game? Or saved for something special, like say, an in-Park event??? Hmmm… Cast your vote and let us know.

Okay, so I have to get back to playing the VMK TCG and testing all the other cool stuff we have in the works. I'm so excited, I want to tell you about – oops, sorry, that will have to wait until next time! But keep checking back here for the latest VMK news because there's some really awesome things on the way!

See you in VMK, Yavn

Community Reminder

1. Worried about being banned?

Then ALWAYS USE GOOD JUDGEMENT when playing VMK. Treat other players as you would like to treated, don't use foul language or take part in bad behavior - any activity like this will get you banned, in almost every case, permanently.

2. Scamming players will get you banned!

Scamming of any kind is not tolerated in VMK. If you are involved in scamming players in any way, your account will be banned. If you promise an item to another player and don't award it, you will be banned from VMK. If you have a player that's offering an item and the offer seems "too good to be true," it probably is. Always use your best judgment and trade with caution.

3. Pay to Play is not allowed in VMK.

Any room where you pay to play a game and it's up to the room owner to award the prize is against VMK Values and not allowed in VMK. Opening a Pay to Play room is a violation of the VMK game guidelines and will get you banned from VMK.

VMK will continue to charge for some public rooms (like Pirates), as Pay to Play scams are a larger problem for personal rooms.

4. 'Relationship' rooms? Not in VMK.

It's against the VMK Values to create or open ANY type of 'relationship' room (rooms that include words like 'meet,' 'pick,' 'get,' 'find,' 'have,' 'taken,' etc.) in VMK. You'll be warned and possibly banned for opening any type of room that promotes this activity.

VMK reserves the right to update and/or revise the VMK Values and House Rules without notice. Please make sure you periodically review the VMK Values and House Rules for the most current game guidelines.

For more information or a reminder of what's acceptable in VMK review the VMK Values page.

Account Problems

Have you tried logging into VMK after a few months only to find your VMK account has been deleted?

Because of the size of our community we have to delete accounts that are inactive for more than 6 months to make room for new players - so if you haven't played in a while, be sure to log in every now and then (even if just for a few minutes) and keep your account active!

Disney H2O

See Newsletter 4 June 2007

Nemo 101

See Newsletter 9 July 2007

It's Tiki Time

August is Tiki Month

Disneyland's Enchanted Tiki Room was Walt Disney's first full-scale AudioAnimatronics attraction. It's been "enchanting" Guests at Disneyland since 1963… But did you know the attraction was originally going to be a restaurant? This and more interesting Tiki trivia is coming your way – it's Tiki time!

Disneyland's Enchanted Tiki Room opened in 1963, Walt Disney World's in 1971, and Tokyo Disneyland's in 1983.

• There are 225 singing birds, flowers, and tiki's inside Disneyland's Enchanted Tiki Room.
• The theme song for the Enchanted Tiki Room was written by the Sherman brothers, who were responsible for writing other Disney Theme Park classics like the theme songs for "it's a small world", Carousel of Progress, and the musical scores for movies like Mary Poppins and The Jungle Book.
• The Tiki Room is currently the only attraction to feature a different version of the same attraction in three Disney Theme Parks. The original show plays at Disneyland, "Enchanted Tiki Room: Under New Management" with Iago from "Aladdin" and Zazu from "The Lion King" plays at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom Park, and "Enchanted Tiki Room: Get The Fever!" with a new Cast of Tiki Birds plays at Tokyo Disneyland.

Walt Disney pays a visit to The Enchanted Tiki Room.

• On the Enchanted Tiki Room's opening day at Disneyland, June 23rd, 1963, you had to purchase a separate ticket in order to see the show. It wasn't included in you're A-E ticket book.
• Because of the computers required to run the attraction, The Enchanted Tiki Room was the first fully air-conditioned show building at Disneyland.
• Originally, the Enchanted Tiki Room was supposed to be a dinner show with birds singing overhead while you ate your meal. Walt and his team of Imagineers realized that many people may not feel comfortable eating under a bird… and the dinner portion of the show was cut from the concept.
• At Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom Park, some famous names have lent their voices to the characters in the "Under New Management" show. Phil Hartman and Don Rickles are the voices of the birds behind the waterfall, Gilbert Gottfried is the voice of Lago, and Jerry Orbach (who is the voice of Lumiere in "Beauty and the Beast") is the voice of Pierre the Macaw.
• Tokyo Disneyland's Tiki Room is the only show to not feature the four original "Macaudios" … Jose, Michael, Fritz, and Pierre. Instead, the roost is ruled by some new birds… Buddy, Danno, Lava, and Scats. In this version of the show, the Tiki Gods have fallen asleep, and it's up to the new birds to wake them up!

Event Info

AUGUST is Tiki Month! It's Tiki Time in VMK!

Host Event Highlights – This weekend! August 18th & 19th

Summer FUN Days Every Tuesday & Thursday in August

NEW! Room Makeovers Every week!

Check the Community Calendar for more events, details and event times.

Tiki Time

Get your summer party on! It's Tiki Time in VMK! All through the month of August enjoy Tiki-themed games and events!

Host Event Highlights – this weekend!

• Saturday – During Tongo Travels, HOST_Lily will roaming the Virtual Magic Kingdom visiting rooms at random.
• Sunday – Join HOST_Phinny and her Koro Quest. It's a VMK adventure that you won't want to miss!

Summer FUN Days

Tuesdays & Thursdays in August

Summer FUN days continue through August! Play the in-game Pirates game on Tuesday's or the in-game Haunted Mansion game on Thursday's and get double rewards! That's right Summer FUN Days give you chance to get double game credits for these games so play often.

Room Makeovers

New every week!

Each week we select lucky VMKer's at random for a Room Makeover, then our talented team of Room Designers review the rooms and put their design skills to work! We post the results here, including BEFORE and AFTER pics – plus tips you can use to make your own rooms better!

Submit your room for a Makeover using Contact Us.

Let's take a look at our room makeover this week – take it away Sparky!

HOST_Sparky

This week instead of doing our usual Room Makeover I want to show you how to use a piece of furniture to add more variety to your room.

Elevate Me

Everyone knows that Blizzard Beach Rocks, Typhoon Lagoon Trees, Space Mountain and Crow's Nest Barstool poles can be used for making great rides – by using these pieces to elevate your tracks – but did you know these items can also be used in other ways too?

Getting things up off the floor gives you more depth and variety to your room!

For example, in the room above, I used the Space Mountain poles and ALR Painted Rugs to create the floating island in the center of the room. The blue colored poles accent the color of the Water Carpets, but more importantly make the island look like it's hovering just above the water.

On my little island, Tangaroa-Ru Tiki Idols guard a sacred fountain, but notice how the trees look natural? That's because I made them different heights using Typhoon Lagoon Tree Trunks and Tree Tops. By placing Tree Tops by themselves, without a Trunk for a base, they look like little shrubs!

Now let's look at the right hand side of the screen, by stacking Crow's Nest Barstool poles in pairs at different heights, I truly can fly! Now my Dreams Captain Hook chairs look like they're coming in for a water landing! (But the captain of this fleet of ships better steer clear of the jagged boulder tops, created by the Blizzard Beach Rocks!)

Not only is it fun to take an item and find a neat way to use it in another way, it will help you make your room more unique! Now let your imagination run wild and see what you can come up with!

- HOST_Sparky

Top 5 FAQs

VMK's Top 5 Frequently Asked Questions for the week

For more answers to other Frequently Asked Questions, please visit the VMK FAQs.

1. Why can't I tell my friends in VMK what grade I just finished in school or give other personal information about myself?

Finishing any grade is a huge accomplishment and from everyone at VMK, CONGRATULATIONS! But part of keeping VMK safe means keeping your personal information to yourself.

Nobody should ever know where you live, how old you are, or even what grade you just finished. IT DOESN'T MATTER if you know the person outside of the game – it is against the VMK Values to give out ANY personal information. (This includes if you're home alone from school, or the state where you live.) You will get banned for doing this.

Keep your identity – and VMK account – safe, never give out personal information on VMK!

2. Can you tell me about the VMK Staff? Who are they?

Despite their appearance, VMK staff members are NOT kids but actually adults trained specifically to handle VMK. VMK Staff may look like you in the game (with cool Mickey ears) but they're actually more like school teachers - in fact, many of the VMK Staff are teachers, or have been teachers, which is why they choose to be VMK Staff: because they like to teach and help kids.

With that said, VMK Staff should be treated like you would treat a school teacher: with respect. Because although the VMK Staff is there to help and keep you safe, they also must step in when you're not playing safely or following the VMK Values or game guidelines.

Also keep in mind the VMK Staff are very, very busy working to keep you safe and make sure VMK runs smoothly - so while it's ok to say hello, ask for a picture or some cool magic, don't be rude to them, misbehave or report false information. If you do, you could get banned and in VMK bans are like being sent to the principal's office - and nobody wants that.

VMK Staff are adults trained to help you and keep the community safe - so please treat them with respect. In fact, treat EVERYONE in VMK with respect; it's more fun to play that way.

3. I keep using the Call for Help Tool and I keep getting a message that says "Press the ignore button!" Is anyone helping with my problem?

Yes, someone is responding to your problem. Just because a moderator sends you a message telling you to please use the "Ignore" Button, it doesn't mean the moderator is ignoring your problem! The moderator is asking you to ignore the other player because the moderator may be investigating the situation or helping another player. Using "Ignore" is the easiest and best way to stop the problem from getting worse.

4. What happens if you send false reports to VMK Staff members?

If you send a false report you could get banned. Yes, we want you to report players that aren't following the VMK Values (no, you won't get banned for reporting someone - if your report is indeed real), but DO NOT send false reports. Our Moderators and Staff research your report and if we find you've reported something which isn't true, you'll get a warning (which goes against your account), and you possibly could be banned. (The VMK Staff is very busy and are working very hard to keep you safe – so don't send them on a wild goose chase, it's not a good use of their time.)

Report ONLY things that HAVE happened, not what you think or assume someone has done, and report the issue IMMEDIATELY! If VMK Staff don't appear it doesn't mean the situation isn't being monitored or looked into (remember, we see everything that goes on in the game, and don't have to physically be in the game to do so) so you don't need to re-report it, leave the room and play in another room. VMK Staff researches all reports.

'''5. I've sent in a problem using Contact Us but no one has replied - why haven't I heard from anyone?'''

We respond to every email we get within 24 hours - but some email providers (like AOL.com, Hotmail.com, msn.com, Comcast.net, Cox.net, rr.net and Earthlink) block our responses.

If you use any of the email providers listed above, or haven't gotten a response from us, this is the reason.

Some email providers have Spam Filters that automatically block email from an unknown source and you have to tell the program (the email application) to allow email from that source. To get email from VMK, go into the preferences for your mailbox and allow mail from: [email protected]. (Please note, this email address DOES NOT receive email except via the Contact Us form.)

You also have the option to submit an alternate email address in the Contact Us tool (this option is under the Send Details box) if your provider won't take our replies. We suggest setting up another email account, like yahoo.com to get our replies.

Yeti's Tips & Tricks

From 25 July 2007

You've got questions, Yeti has answers.

The Yeti is back and ready for action! Here to provide game tips, answer your questions and make you a better VMK player in general, the fur-covered guru of VMK gaming, Mr. Yeti!

I don't have to tell you how hot it is this summer! I've been cooling off inside while playing VMK, by the looks of it, so have you! We've got lots of players in the Kingdom, so remember to be nice to other players while helping out new ones too! But hey, you can't stay in front of the computer all day, take breaks from VMK and get out and enjoy the sun! Just remember, wear sunscreen! Now, let's get to those questions:

Finding the Submarine Reward Card

The Reward for the Finding Nemo Sumarine Voyage Quest – the Tomorrowland Submarine Wall.

Mr. Yeti, a few weeks back I got a Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage Quest from Disneyland but it didn't have the reward card on it. Where can I get the card?

The Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage Quest was available in preview, when the Quest was in preview it did not include a card. (Yavn mentioned this a few weeks back in the Newsletter.) We released the Quest as an early preview to give Guest a taste of what was to come. The Quest that is distributed in the line for The Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage at Disneyland now includes the card – but this Quest (and Reward) is only available at Disneyland for a limited time, so get them before they're gone!

Can't I redeem the Quest without the card to get the reward? How do I do that?

You don't "redeem" this Quest like you did previous Quest at Disneyland. Why? A couple of reasons: 1.) The preview was meant as a preview, so this early version did not have a card. 2.) The answers are printed on the Quest. 3.) VMK Central (the redemption center) is no longer at Disneyland.

Hidden Mickey's

Yeti, I finally completed the Hidden Mickey Quest, but I didn't get the same rewards as my friends, what happened?

If you're referring to the pdf's that you print out and take to the Park and redeem for a virtual reward, those rewards have been retired. But stay tuned, announcements of other cool prizes for those games and Quest are on the way!

Hidden Mickey's can be anywhere – use your camera to find them!

Remember VMK revises and changes prizes to keep things fresh and fun. For instance, new items replace old ones, rare items are retired and new attractions or lands are introduced. Like the Disney Theme Parks, the Virtual Magic Kingdom is constantly changing to address the growing demands of our players.

Play it Safe! Don't Get Banned!

Since it's summer and we're all having fun, I want to take a minute and remind you to – behave yourselves! Especially when you're playing VMK. Nothing will give you the summertime blues like getting banned from VMK, so here are a few tips to keep your visit to the Kingdom safe and keep you from getting banned!

• Always be respectful and aware of other players.

Your actions (or chat) might offend other players, if another player reports you, our moderators and community mangers must look into the situation – so be careful of what you say or do.

• Play like a parent or teacher is watching you.

If you're doing something that they wouldn't approve of, in chat or otherwise, it's most likely VMK does not approve of it either.

• NEVER GIVE OUT PERSONAL INFORMATION OF ANY KIND. IF YOU DO, YOU WILL BE BANNED FROM VMK.

This includes, but is not limited to, your location, your email address, your real name, age or other personal info, myspace page, AIM info or your phone number.

It doesn't matter if you think you know the person or they've been on your friends list for a long time, it's against the VMK Values. But you shouldn't even do this on unofficial forums or message boards, because aside from being against game guidelines, it's just not safe.

• Be safe instead of being sorry.

If you're not sure if what you're doing is right, it's better to be safe than sorry and not get yourself into a sticky situation – don't take part in any activity you think might get you banned.

If you're not sure what will get you banned review the VMK Values, they're guidelines for safe play. Remember VMK are always updating and revising these guidelines to meet the needs of our growing community – so be sure to review the VMK Values from time to time.

Alright then, that about does it for now, but I'll be back soon with more VMK tips and tricks! Enjoy your summer and have fun out there!

Push's Trash Trivia

One version of this Adventureland boat ride features angry Tiki gods. Name the attraction.

Know the answer?

Send your answer in using Contact Us. Be sure to have your VMK registration info with you and select Push's Trash Trivia from the drop down menu.

If you do not submit your answer by 'Contact Us' and using the Push Trivia option your answer WILL NOT be considered.

From the correct answers (submitted using the Push Trivia option) we randomly select three players as the winners and send them a virtual Push Trivia Pin prize.

Only entries submitted by using the Push Trivia option in Contact Us and sent by close of game on Friday will be accepted.

Here's the answer to last weeks Push Trivia question:

Question: At the very end of the Enchanted Tiki Room: Under New Management show at Walt Disney World, Iago decides to leave for a nap. Where does he say he is going?

Answer: The Hall of Presidents.

One of the original attractions that opened with Walt Disney World on October 1, 1971, the Hall of Presidents proves history is not boring, especially when you get a chance to get up close and personal with all 42 U.S. Presidents. Located inside Liberty Square, the attraction features some of the most advanced Audio Animatronic figures ever created.

The speech President Bush gives was written specifically for the attraction. The wristwatch that the President Bush Audio Animatronic figure wears is a Timex Indiglo, the real president wears the same watch.

Several Disney legends had a hand in creating the attraction, the figures for example were sculpted by Disney Legend Blaine Gibson (he sculpted the Walt & Mickey 'Partners' statues), and the 70mm film format that is used in the show was created by Disney Legend Ub Iwerks (Iwerks was one of Walt Disney's oldest friends and helped Walt animate Mickey Mouse in the early days).

Did you know: Presidents Lincoln and Bush are A-100 Audio Animatronic figures – the most advanced and lifelike figures ever created by Walt Disney Imagineering. Current President George W. Bush and former president Bill Clinton are the only two presidents that personally recorded their own dialog for the show.

Here are the 3 lucky (and randomly picked) players that sent in the correct answer for our last week's question!

JustCallMeSilly

airdragon

SunnyEclipse

Congratulations! You've won a limited edition Push Trivia Pin!

Top Players

'''Create a Great Guest Room! Get Recognized!'''

Alohi wins top honors this week in the Best Guest Room category.

Do you have a cool Guest Room you want to tell the Kingdom about? Do you know someone with a great hangout spot or game? Then nominate yourself or someone else for Best Game, Best Guest or Best Quest!

To nominate a player for consideration, click the Contact Us link at the bottom of any VMK webpage and then follow the prompts. You must select Nominate the Best from the list of options to have your nomination considered.

Player created Guest, Quest or Game Rooms demonstrate originality in concept and design. Our judges are looking for creativity, so try using traditional items in different and unique ways. Rooms are judged by VMK Staff and selected from player submitted rooms and Quest.

New winners are posted here every week.

Game rooms that get the nod offer a new game idea or a new twist on an old favorite. In all rooms we look for room owners who welcome everyone with a smile and show a willingness to answer questions about their room.

Check out this week's Best Guest Rooms and Best Game Rooms

Best Guest Rooms

Alohi invites you to come and enjoy the Happy Kid Amusement Park. It's fun for everyone.

Best Game Rooms

Be sure to look at Nick_hms Photo Album for rules to play the Lag Current game. The goal? Do your best to be the last player still floating!

Best Player Quests

SuperBillyHill says thar be two Sparrow at World's End Quests to enjoy in his room. (Here's a secret matey, the easy one is on the left and the hard one is on the right!)

Players who have been previously recognized for their design talents will receive the VIP award.

VMK Cards

AWESOME NEW REWARDS!

Get the Mickey Mouse Television by correctly completing 3 or more Quest at Disneyland or Walt Disney World – then redeem the code in-game for this cool virtual prize! Check out the VMK Rewards Card Checklist and make sure you have all the VMK bling! What cards do you have in your collection?

Scam Alert

Staff impersonation is NOT allowed in VMK!

Impersonation is never allowed in VMK. If a player says they are VMK Staff, make sure they're wearing the orange Mickey Pin and wearing either red (for Staff and HOSTS) or blue (for QA) Mickey ears.

VMK Staff will always wear the orange Mickey Pin.

You can always spot STAFF and HOSTS because they wear red Mickey ears.

You can identify a Community Leader by the 'CL_' at the beginning of their name and their blue wizard hat pin.

Remember, VMK Staff will never ask you to trade any items. If you have other questions check out the FAQs page!

VMK Email Scam

If you get an email from anyone claiming to be from "VMK Player Support" asking for your VMK user information, your character name, password or birthday, DO NOT REPLY to the email. This is a scam to get your login info. There are also email scams where these same parties claim to need this information to award the Push Trivia winners or Best Guest Room prizes.

VMK will NEVER send unsolicited email asking for your password or user information.

The only time you would get an email from VMK regarding this information is if you have already sent us an email requesting help with this problem or another problem through the Contact Us link on the website.

Any email from VMK will include your original email in the reply.

Remember, NEVER share your login and password information should never be shared with anyone.

Trade with Caution!

Before you complete a trade take a second and review your trade window! This is very important! You want to make sure the item, or items, you are trading for are actually inside the trade window before you accept the trade!

To do this, scroll all the way to the bottom of the trade window, confirm the items are there and then - once you're satisfied the trade is fair - accept the trade.

REMEMBER: It's up to you to keep track of your stuff and your trades! If you knowingly enter into a trade and get scammed because you didn't check the trade window, we cannot be responsible that you didn't get your stuff.

Scamming = Theft!

Scamming is equal to theft and a violation of the VMK Values. If you scam someone in VMK, this will lead to your account being automatically and permanently banned. Having your parents send in a request using Contact Us to get your account re-activated won't work, because if you can't play by the rules and follow the VMK Values, we don't want you in the game.

Don't let yourself get scammed. As the old saying goes, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don't "loan" your stuff and if a room owner refuses to show you their "Cute or Boot" prize or rare item, or you feel they don't really have the prize, leave the room. There are lots of other games to play and things to do in VMK!

Safety Corner

Adult subjects are NEVER appropriate in VMK!

Adult subjects are never allowed in VMK. If you need a reminder of what is and isn't acceptable, read over the VMK Values.

If you spot a player in VMK that is not following the VMK Values and guidelines (especially if they're using adult subjects in chat) – report them. This also applies to players chatting about violence and/or engaging in a violent act – report these players (and any who violate the rules) immediately!

VMK does not tolerate violent language of any kind. Engaging in this behavior is inappropriate and will get you banned, in most cases permanently. Help keep VMK a safe and fun virtual place for everyone! :-)

Game Guidelines Change – Stay Informed.

Has it been a while since you've signed into VMK? Make sure before you re-enter the Kingdom that you review the VMK Values and any updated game guidelines.

To address the needs of our growing community we often update our game guidelines – it's up to you to review the Values and guidelines and make sure you know what is and isn't allowed in VMK before you play. For more recent updates to the VMK Values review the Safety Corner and Scam Alert sections here in the Newsletter.

Don't Dictionary Dance

The VMK Dictionary is in place for a reason. If you "dance" around the dictionary to say something you shouldn't, you could get banned.

Bad words have no place in VMK and neither do words that sound or read like bad words (but are spelled differently). The VMK Dictionary will never allow players to use bad words. "Dancing" around the VMK Dictionary to use bad words (or words that aren't in the dictionary) in chat could get you banned.

Help is always available.

The VMK 'Call For Help' button is easy to use and always accessible – just click on the HELP button on the lower right of the VMK player window. At VMK we encourage you to let us know if anything unsafe or suspicious catches your attention. If it's not in line with VMK Values, please report it!

Tip: Remember the 'Call For Help' is like VMK's 911. So while we encourage you to use it, please only do so for serious player issues. And like 911, using 'Call For Help' to report false information will get you in trouble too, so make sure you're reporting the incident or player accurately.

If you do have a serious problem, tell us immediately! The faster you use the 'Call For Help' button to make us aware of a problem, the more effective we can be in taking care of the issue. So please, tell us immediately if you have a serious problem and help make VMK a fun and safe place for everyone.

VMK Safety & Security

Remember to review the VMK Values and game guidelines. New rules include that Pay to Play rooms are no longer allowed. As always, violence or inappropriate subject matter of adult nature will NOT be tolerated and involvement in this activity will result in a ban of your VMK account.

VMK is NO place for negative behavior. Have fun, make friends, play games and chat, but please keep in mind VMK must always be a safe and appropriate place for Players of ALL ages.

Please help keep VMK just like the Disney Theme Parks - a safe, fun and magical place for everyone!

Respect other players. Scams (theft), violence, giving out personal information or discussing adult content (sexual or otherwise), vulgarity or inappropiate behavior have NO place in VMK.

Keep It Private - Guarding Your Personal Information

Schools out! We know you're all excited about being at home instead of the classroom and VMK is a great, creative way to spend your summer days. Just remember when playing, giving out personal information, such as telling people you're at home alone, is NEVER okay in VMK.

Giving out ANY personal information - your real name, where you live, contact information, grade level, age, and yes, even if you're at home by yourself. Giving out this information – in ANY form, is in direct violation to the VMK Values and WILL GET YOU BANNED.

You should understand that the minute you provide others with your personal information, your personal safety could be at risk.

VMK is a fun place, but it's also a BIG place, with people from all over�so just to keep it safe, keep personal information to yourself and out of VMK. You're best bet is to keep your personal identity and information secret - like a superhero - it can help you avoid a ban and it can keep you safe.

If you have a question about what is or isn't okay, you can ask us using Contact Us.

Quests

In-Park Quests!

THE NEW FINDING NEMO SUBMARINE VOYAGE QUEST!

The Finding Nemo Quest - exclusively at Disneyland's Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage for a limited time.

PLAY THE PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN QUEST!

Have a swashbuckling adventure at the Magic Kingdom - search for the answers hidden in the attraction and earn the Pirates Fortress Room for VMK!

Print-From-Home-Quests

Going to Disneyland® Park or Magic Kingdom® Park? Take a Quest with you! Play in-Park and win cool prizes!

<strong>Tomorrowland Quest</strong>! This out-of-this-world adventure is fun and rewarding. You can win a Inner-Space Suit Magic Spell for your virtual character.

<strong>High School Musical Quest</strong>! Watch the movie, visit the Parks and answer all the questions to win cool stuff!

Get the <strong>Thrill Seekers Quest</strong> for the Walt Disney World® Resort here!

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Dateline Disney

Events that shaped the Walt Disney Company

August 14

2007: The world premiere of High School Musical 2 is held at the AMC Theaters in Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort. Among those walking the red carpet are stars Zac Efron and Ashley Tisdale. The film will premiere on the Disney Channel Friday, August 17.

1958: Disneyland's Alice in Wonderland attraction celebrates its grand opening. The ceremonies are hosted by Walt Disney, in attendance are other characters from the popular film including Mouseketeer Karen Pendleton who is dressed as Alice.

1945: Comedian/actor Steve Martin is born Stephen Glenn Martin in Waco, Texas. At the age of 5, Martin moves with his family to California. In 1955 the family moves to Garden Grove, California, a town a few miles away from Anaheim and the newly opened Disneyland.

This "Wild and Crazy Guy" (we mean the one on the left) got his start at Disneyland!

Steve Martin goes to work at Disneyland at the age of 10, getting an after school job there selling guide books dressed in a straw hat and bowtie. He will hold several small jobs at Disneyland before the age of 15, when he takes a job in Fantasyland selling fake vomit and performing magic tricks in Merlin's Magic Shop. Martin will work at Disneyland until the age of 18.

Martin has often been quoted as being heavily influenced by Wally Boag a performer at Disneyland. In addition to being seen in Fantasia 2000 and the Disney/Buena Vista film Father of the Bride, Steve Martin can currently be seen at Disneyland as the host of Disneyland: The First 50 Magical Years at the Disneyland Main Street Opera House.

July 17

1955: Disneyland opens in Anaheim, California to invited Guest and media. Walt Disney originally envisioned it as "Mickey Mouse Park," and planned to locate the Park on a tiny eight acre plot across from Walt Disney Studios in Burbank. As ideas for the Park grew a larger location was selected about 45 miles south in the orange groves of Anaheim.

Disneyland has changed a lot over the years, a testament to Walt Disney's commitment to constantly entertain and amaze Guest. He was once quoted as saying, "Disneyland will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world."

However, of the 25 opening day attractions several still remain at Disneyland today, including Peter Pan's Flight, Snow White's Scary Adventures and Mr. Toad's Wild Ride.

"To all who come to this happy place - welcome. Disneyland is your land. Here age relives fond memories of the past and here youth may savor the challenge and promise of the future. Disneyland is dedicated to the ideals, the dreams, and the hard facts that have created America... with the hope that it will be a source of joy and inspiration to all the world."

– Walt Disney at Disneyland's dedication, July 17th, 1955.

1989: The dedication ceremony for Splash Mountain is held at Disneyland for invited guest and selected press. In attendance are Disney's CEO Michael Eisner, actors Jim Varney and Nick Stewart (the voice of Brer Bear), Brer Rabbit, Brer Fox, and Mickey Mouse. They officially turn on the water pump to the attraction which will open to the public the following day.

July 7

2006: Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest opens in theaters nationwide, it will ransack the box office and become one of the highest grossing films of all time. At the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World and Disneyland, Captain Jack Sparrow invades the attraction as Walt Disney Imagineers add Captain Jack Sparrow and Hector Barbosa to the attraction. The ride is also enhanced with dynamic digital sound and new effects.

1997: The Disneyland Monorail begins a revised operating schedule (traveling in only one direction) to help workers constructing a new theme park called… Disney's California Adventure.

1976: Starring Ed Asner, Don Knotts, Tim Conway, Tom Bosley, Dick Van Patten, football great Johnny Unitas and a mule, Disney's live-action comedy Gus kicks its way into theaters. The live-action film follows the antics of a field goal kicking mule named Gus and his rise to fame with the California Atoms football team.

That's right, he's a field goal kicking mule and the league's leading laugh scorer!

1971: Animator and technical genius Ub Iwerks passed away in Burbank, California. Ub (whose real name was Ubbe Ert Iwwerks) first met Walt Disney in 1919 when the two worked together as commercial artist in Kansas City. When Walt moved to California and started his animation studio, Ub was his first employee. Ub animated the first Mickey Mouse short, Plane Crazy in two weeks, producing over 700 drawing for the cartoon a day.

Ub Iwerks, animator and Disney Legend 1901–1971

In addition to his animation expertise, Mr. Iwerks was also a technical wizard and built the world's first Multiplane Camera in 1933. He is also credited for helping create the photography process used to blend live action and animation for such films as Three Caballeros, Song of the South and Mary Poppins. Ub Iwerks was honored as a Disney Legend in 1989.

June 29

2007: Ratatouille is released to theaters nationwide. It's Pixar's eighth animated feature film. Directed by Brad Bird (the creative force behind The Incredibles), Ratatouille, (pronounced rat-a-too-ee) follows the adventures of a rat named Remy as he dreams of becoming a famous French chef. The film features the voices of Patton Oswald (as Remy), John Ratzenberger, Janeane Garofalo, Brad Garrett and Petor O' Toole.

1974: America Sings debuts at Disneyland in Tomorrowland's Carousel Theater. The attraction features over 100 Audio-Animatronic figures and replaces the General Electric Carousel of Progress – which is relocated to Walt Disney World.

1908: Disney Legend John Hench is born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Mr. Hench started with the Walt Disney Company as a story artist in 1939 and would eventually become the senior vice president of Walt Disney Imagineering.

John Hench, Disney Legend 1908–2004.

During his 65 years with the company (the longest of any Cast Member) he personally witnessed the creation of almost every Disney theme park and animated feature. He contributed to such classics as Dumbo, Fantasia and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Among his many other accomplishments, he was also responsible for designing Cinderella's Castle at Walt Disney World and the original designs for Space Mountain.