15 year Anniversary: Themagical.nl

"Celebrating 15 'magical' years online!  Thank you to the guests that visited this website over the years!  Here's to another 15 'magical' years to come!"

Until then,

Themagical Staff

Christmas Eve, Have a safe and joyous holiday season

Hello Friends (Happy Christmas Eve),

Thank you for your support and cooperation with us through out this year! We value you our community for your feedback and emails of encouragements.

Have a safe and joyous holiday season! 

Themagical Team wishes you a safe and healthy holiday's and a Merry Christmas!

Until Then,

Reighard

Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday's

© Disney

Hello Friends!

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy Holidays! 

As the holiday season is upon us, we wish the best for all of you to have a great and safe holiday season!

Thank you for keeping up on the reading with us, though the updates weren't as much this time around.  We hope you are enjoying 'Soarin' and 'Grizzly River Run' simulations this year!  Both unique in their own category of ride theme and attraction.

© Disney

Until Then, 

Reighard

Count Your Blessings! Happy Thanksgiving!

Hey Everyone!

We are celebrating today here in the "States" have the national holiday of Thanksgiving!
Ah...the second best time of the year to come together with family and friends over a delicious hot juicy turkey and all the fixings. I know this is my favorite time of holiday to enjoy delicious food and fellowship.

Even getting together for a meal is wonderful to enjoy and celebrate as one. Where ever you are at right now, think of things that you are thankful for this year. It's great to reflect on these things and as well to find ways to help others in need. Maybe even volunteering at a local soup kitchen to feed the homeless this holiday season and many other ways to help families who are in need of help to provide a hot meal this holiday and as well daily life.

As the following day after thanksgiving, is a season where everybody goes shopping like a mad crazy person. This is known where stores around the nation sells items for real less prices and as well make great deals for certain hours of the day! This is called "Black Friday". 

Now for the past 3 or 4 years, box retail stores are now opening on 'Thanksgiving Day' by starting 4pm or even 6pm that day.  This day is now being 'Blue Thursday' due to the fact of how the stores are opening earlier. I'm not really pleased by how the stores are opening earlier, it kinda defeats the 'Black Friday' shopping specials.


Black Friday is a term where the day after thanksgiving, people will go to the stores very early early in the morning around 1am or so to buy items that are hot ticket items. Local stores like Best Buy, Walmart, Sears, etc... will sell certain products the night of black Friday, people who stand for hours before the store close, just to be the first one to get hands on a hot selling product. People usually shop for Christmas deals already and finding prices that they can afford since we are all still in the economy is weak. So hopefully, more revenue will help stores and as well the people who work there make a decent pay check this season.

::Fun Interview Recap::

A fun interview recap awhile back in 2009 with no other than Martijn Leseman (Founder/Webmaster of Themagical/Simulation Creator) !

You can read it here, click here!

::Count Your Blessings::

For all of those who are visiting us here and as well who are members from the "States", the staff of 'Themagical' team wishes you and your families to have a safe and enjoyable thanksgiving day!

Until then!

Reighard

November 13 2015 : A day never to be forgotten

**Out Of Loop Article: Usually I don't post often about terrible tragedies, but this one brings a heavy heart to write about which occurred on this past Friday November 13, 2015.** 

On Friday November 13, 2015 , was any ordinary day where many french folks were enjoying the start of the weekend.  A time where they went out to visit a cafe place to have a drink with a friend, listening to a rock concert , or even a special landmark just to relax after a long work week.

All of that is about to change in a instant!  Terrorism is what was caused of terror, fear, and death of innocent victims who got shot at random at these different locations simultaneously on that day. 

Dozens of injured and over 129 have died from this incident.  Including an American girl student who was studying on design while in France, and a young London man who worked as a lawyer. Victims of some of the people are listed here.

© CBC.CA Article Here

My heart goes out to the families who lost their loved ones during this terrible day.  My sympathy goes out to the people who had to witness people dying in front of them and around them.  My heartaches for them during this difficult time and the people of Paris.

::Disneyland Paris Resort Closed::

© Daniel Amos via Facebook.com  

Due to this tragic event took place, Disneyland Paris resort closed on that day and announced they will be closed until November 17, 2015. 

This is the 'FIRST TIME' that Disneyland Paris closed since opening day in 1992. 

 © Euro Disney S.A.S  http://www.disneylandparis.com/en-us/

A message from Bob Iger, in French and English:

"On behalf of all Disneyland Paris employees and as everywhere in France, our thoughts are with the innocent victims of this horrible terrorist attack. We join our prayers to those around the world for the victims, their families and friends - and to all those affected by this monstrous act.  "Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company.

"Au nom de tous les employés de Disneyland Paris et comme partout en France, nos pensées vont vers les innocentes victimes de cette horrible attaque terroriste. Nous joignons nos prières à celles du monde entier pour les victimes, leur famille et leurs amis – et pour tous celles et ceux affectés par cet acte monstrueux." Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company.

::Walt Disney World: Epcot's France Pavilion November 14, 2015

© Karen Hallion via Facebook.com 'Disney's Belle' Holding Eiffel Tower Of Her Home Paris.

Over at the Epcot Park in Walt Disney World Resort Florida many park guests were bringing flowers and memorial cards in the France Pavilion due to the incident that took place on Friday November 13.

© Faith Eastling via Facebook.com on November 14, 2015

Disney France CMs (Cast Members) made a decision to display all flowers, memorial cards, etc... in a private back stage area where CMs could pay their respect when they were off the stage. 

::9/11/2001::  

When terrorism attacked the United States, the French responded as well in our time of need.

On 9/11 French said "Today we are Americans" ,  Now today, we say "Today we are all French."

© Rich Lemen Sr via Facebook.com "French Statue holding torch with USA Statue"

::Closing Thoughts::

Themagical Staff thoughts, prayers, and sympathy of the victim families during this tragic tragedy.

If you can support those in need over in Paris, you can donate to the International Red Cross here:  http://www.ifrc.org/en/get-involved/donate/

Soarin at Disney World Closing in January 2016!

© Disney 

Hello Friends!

I bring you this post an interesting breaking (previously long time rumored) news of our beloved Walt Disney World ride attraction.

© Disney

If you can recall or those who visit during the celebration of 'Happiest Celebration on Earth' promotion.  During this special event, Walt Disney World brought a special attraction that was from the Disney's California Adventure Park  called 'Soarin' over California (which opened in February 8, 2001).

© Disney | image by © gogobot.com

Opening in May 5, 2005, Walt Disney World got a similar attraction as well and called it "Soarin'".  The current ride takes guests high above on a special glider that visited  several scenes in California, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Napa Valley, and Disneyland Park.  And if you looked closely and fast enough to see a 'hidden mickey' in part of the film too!

© Disney | Image project of 'current' attraction film.

From several years ago, rumors were circulating about a 'possible' updated movie and new enhancements to the aged attraction.  Plans did went dim when other projects got green-lit as the parks were trying to bring more guests to its parks due to the competition of Universal Orlando's Harry Potter theme land attraction.

© Disney | Image projection of 'current' attraction film.

Disney Fan site named "Disney and more", wrote back in July 2013 about a possible 'updated screens to HD 4K to 8K at both attractions to Disney California Adventure and Walt Disney World.'  Also in the post mentioned about 'possible' places where the new film could be showing.  Read more about the article here! Click here.

© Disney 

As of Monday  October 19, 2015 , Disney FINALLY approved the long-waited, long rumored updated/expanded attraction to its beloved attraction...Soarin' .  Soarin' at Walt Disney World will be closing on January 4, 2016. (Source: DisneyParks.com)

© Disney | Image projection of 'current' attraction film.

The upgrades will include a 3^rd theater to be built and upgrades to existing theaters.  This new added theater will help out on cutting down the line wait. New projection systems and a new film will added. The new film is called "Soarin Around The World."

Soarin’ Around the World is set to open in 2016. Although no exact date has been given, Erin Glover of Disney Parks Blog has confirmed that the makeover of the popular ride will take place both at Walt Disney World in Florida and at Disneyland Resort in California. The updated version will feature new digital screens and projection systems. It will use the same technology as the planned Soaring Over the Horizon ride at Shanghai Disney Resort.

With Soarin’ Around the World, guests will fly over both natural and man-made attractions such as The Great Wall of China and the plains of Africa. There is no word on how long the new film will be. The updated ride will totally replace the current film, guests will not be able to choose the California version. There has been no announcement on what music will accompany the new film. (Source: Disneydinning.com)

What are your thoughts about this?  You can play our 'current' version of Soarin over at Themagical.nl ! ;)  Click here to play! 

Hello October....Simulation Updates and Bug Fixes

Hello October!

Welcome to the month of October!  Here in the United States, we are experiencing the changes of the seasons.  From the summer hot sun to cool cold crisp air, the changes of tree leaves from green to reddish orange.

This time of season also have the fall harvest of all types of pumpkins, squashes, and apples!  Hot apple cider, hot chocolate and fuzzy sweaters to keep us warm while enjoy the cool crisp air.

Also its a big event where many children dresses up (and adults too) in fun and festive costumes for Halloween.  Nice and enjoyable parties and as well the night time spooky scary haunted places at amusement parks before they close for the season.

The team here at Themagical wishes you a 'Happy Halloween' and enjoyable October season!

:: Simulation Updates :: 

Many of our community gamers over at Themagical love the experience of playing the simulations.  At times there may be a bug or an unexpected disruption to the 'magic' while playing a particular simulation.

Martijn (Founder/Webmaster/Simulation Creator) has been busy updating and fixing some of bug issues to few simulations.  In his free spare time this month, he was able to fix/updated/tweaked of some of your issues in relation to bug glitches and game performance.  

Below are some simulations that were updated.

Tower Of Terror (WDW DHS) : **updated v.1.6.1

Few of our members message on our forums with an issue with some of the 'elevators', 'guests', and other bug related issues.

::Changelog:: 
- Version Number: Changed from v.1.6.0 to v.1.6.1 to reflect the bug fixes/updates.
- "Show Fullscreen" Button: Doesn't work when clicked. (*fixed)
- Elevator Sequence For Loading/Unloading: An elevator is fully loaded and automatic doors turned off, the door won't close. (*fixed)
- Visitor Loading/Unloading Bug: Peeps can also load/unload the pre-show rooms without the doors being open. (*fixed)
- **Added 2 New Videos: Coding was broken/re-established for in-game experience. (*fixed)
- Bug Issues: Found new bug issues in build v.1.6.0 (*fixed)


Phantom Manor (DLP) : **updated v.20150928-010

::Changelog::
- **Added Version Number: Added Coding Version Number to reflect update changes/future tracking changelog
- Version Number: Changed to reflect bug fixes/tweaks v.20150928-10
- Background Music: Revamped in-game music audio. (*fixed)
- Game Performance: Frame rate have been update/tweaked for improved game experience.
- "Play the Phantom Manor Simulation" Button: URL address pointed to wrong webpage link to a blank screen. (*fixed/corrected URL link)

Did you find any issues in these games or other simulation games?  Voice your issues or comments to our simulation forums pages.

Until Then,

Reighard

Summer 2015: Back To School, HTML5, Beta News...OH MY!

Hey pals!

I'm so sorry for not making a post due to work and as well family outings this summer. We are having a great time this summer and we hope you are having a safe and enjoyable one as well.

Back to School!

It's that time again that school is around the corner that is about to begin or already has now in the states.

I really dislike when the summer time goes so fast and the winter season goes so terribly slow.
Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy the seasons and winter as well but I love the summer time. I know most of you do too. ^^' (Am I right?)

Well, school session has now began and we hope you all do your best and perform well during this new school session. Study hard, get good grades and when you have free time you can visit us to wind down. ;)

Be safe and enjoy your time during this school year! :)

HTML 5: Simulations Future..??

By now you are getting annoyed of the reference of 'HTML 5' and 'Adobe Flash' in these postings.  It's a BIG DEAL when the site you've created back in December 1, 2000 may be ending support on browsers...(or all together).

As in the news recently last month, major social media outlets like Facebook, Google, Twitch, just to name a few want Adobe Flash to be discontinued.  Reason behind it is due to the security vulnerabilities can cause your computer to be compromised by an attacker.

Read Here:

- http://www.theverge.com/2015/7/8/8911077/adobe-flash-hacking-team-vulnerability

- http://www.theverge.com/2015/7/13/8948459/adobe-flash-insecure-says-facebook-cso

- http://www.theverge.com/2015/6/5/8733865/google-chrome-update-pauses-flash-animations

- http://www.theverge.com/2015/7/14/8957177/mozilla-blocks-flash-as-facebook-security-chief-calls-for-its-death

- http://www.theverge.com/2015/7/23/9019973/twitch-dropping-flash-controls-for-html5

The less and less support for Adobe Flash on devices and web browsers, will not only be able to view Flash content but also not able to play the simulations.

Since the debut of Soarin 'The First Of It's Kind On The Web Experience' has made a way to reach more users of mobile smartphone/tablet/mobile devices than ever before.  This is also a stepping stone for the team to learn the new coding of HTML 5.

This is a concern for the team for the future of Adobe Flash usage and support, we are embracing new ways to help bring a better experience to all.

Beta News Update: #TMNewSim 

What could this be??!  The first 'teaser' of our newest upcoming simulation.  Details has not been released as of yet.  

New updated requirements for all new and returning users of our 'beta testers' group.  Mandatory rules must be followed or you'll will not be accepted in the group.  This is for serious testers who want to test out the latest projects and help us out with the bug reports from in-game experiences. 

We are looking also for those who have a smartphone/tablet/mobile devices.  If you have a gaming platform like: XBOX 360/ XBOX One, PS4, PSP, and Wii , we are looking for you too!

Beta Testing will be starting up soon! For those who have sent an request before and didn't make it in, re-send your request today!  

Send your request at: sdt@themagical.nl 

----

 

Themagical Behind the Scenes: Themagical Projects to date!
=========================

Unknown: (Internal Build: 2015.09.02/001) This build has been shown a 'teaser'
in this blog post. New features are being coded and information of this new simulation has not been announced as of yet!  
**Note: Due to high request, this build may or may not be release due to the progress of how the simulation was just 'teased'. 

Millionaire Play It: Trivia Version 2 (Beta Version: 041411/001.v2_triv) This simulation hasn't been updated since its public release due to the popular request of the "Steel Force Simulation" due date release and bug fixes. This will be updated and tied in with the current simulation of 'Millionaire Play It' as bug fixes with that simulation will bring the string code from version 1.0.8 to 2.0. To read the post of this announcement, click here! Video Preview, click here!
**Note: Due to high request, this build may or may not be release due to the progress of how the simulation is still unstable.

Join our discussion:

Facebook Group Page

Twitter Accounts: @Themagical  |  @Randydorney 

EU Visitors: New Law about the use of cookies on this blog

Hello EU Readers,

As by now you are aware of the new European Commission Law for websites who uses cookies.

This blog and as well Themagical.nl is required by EU new law to notify the visitor of the usage of cookies on the website.

Cookies is use for tracking visitors data to pertain certain information like example: the web link that got you here, what operating system you are using, browser viewing this page, etc....

It also helps us over at Themagical to see how our visitors play our simulations and as well help develop a better gaming experience among difference platforms.

Mobile EU Users:  You should see a similar notice while using your mobile browser as shown on the image above.  By which complies to the new EU privacy law for mobile users as well.

This site is also run by Google's Blogger,  learn more of how Google's Blogger cookies is being used based by the new EU privacy law: https://www.google.com/policies/technologies/cookies/


You can learn more about cookies on the European Commission website at: http://ec.europa.eu/ipg/basics/legal/cookies/index_en.htm 

Themagical Staff wants to make sure you are aware of us using tracking cookies and what the use of cookies is for.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us at: sdt@themagical.nl 

Thank you for your understanding!

Until Then,

Themagical Staff

Disney Store Grand Re-Opening in Allentown, PA

Hello Friends!

It's been awhile since I've written anything for Themagical.  Personally my work has me been busy in the last month which made me not have enough time to write or show you more information about the 'upcoming new simulation' that's in the works!

Editorial Correction 6/10/15: Several pictures on the site were used by Valerie N. Moran that wasn't properly mentioned the usage of her photos. Pictures used with permission.  Thanks Valerie for the photos! 

:: Disney Store in Allentown, Pennsylvania Re-Opens! ::

Where I live there's a Disney Store in Allentown, PA located at the Lehigh Valley Mall that got 're-imagined' face lift along with extra pixie magic dust too!

Image: New Look of Store Entrance at Lehigh Valley Mall in Allentown, PA

© Disney |  © Randy Reighard

The Disney Store at the Lehigh Valley Mall original theme was a reflection of 'movie-making' with movie camera cranes, film strips of screenshots of classic movies, animated draw art of Disney characters and other small details of silly antics.  If you looked very closely, there were also 'hidden mickey's' icons throughout the store. 

Image: Store Entrance (Original Layout) |  © Disney

Image: Front Lobby Merchandise (Original Layout) |  © Disney

Image: Donald Duck on movie camera crane (Original Layout) |  © Disney

Image: Movie Camera Crane Bolts 'Hidden Mickey' icons (Original Layout) |  © Disney

Image: Movie Camera Crane Bolts 'Hidden Mickey' (Original Layout) |  © Disney

:: Disney Store Closure For Remodel ::

Back in February 16, 2015, a signage (shown below) at the front of the store showed to guests visiting the store that the Disney Store location was closing for a 'magical transformation'.  It took 3 months to change the original store layout to the new 'refreshed' look.

 Image: Store Closure for new transformation signage © Disney | © Randy Reighard 

Image: Disney Store Construction Walls © Disney © Randy Reighard

Image: Be Part Of The Magic Signage Promo © Disney | © Randy Reighard

Announced by 'The Walt Disney Company' in 2009, a nationwide stores transformation with a new color theme, interactive elements, new art decor, and so much more! The New York City version in Times Square was 're-imagined' 4 years ago, as the Lehigh Valley Mall counter part store is a smaller version of that store.

Here's myself standing in front of the store's logo during a 'soft preview' store opening a week before the grand re-opening on June 6, 2015 (shown below).

Image: Myself Standing Front Of Disney Store Logo © Disney | © Randy Reighard

:: Disney Store 'New Transformation' Celebration Reveal on June 6, 2015 ::

Image: Grand 'Re-Opening' Disney Store Signage on June 6, 2015  © Disney 

On June 6, 2015, you can count your 'hidden mickey's' that it was packed in the early morning at the Lehigh Valley Mall. Approximately 1,000 people showed up for the opening and the excitement was contagious!!

Disney Cast Members were greeting at the mall's top floor entrance and asking guests if they are here for to see the opening.  Once acknowledge by a cast member, we were directed to the forming line to see the store.  

Image: Store Entrance Closed Before Reveal © Disney | © Valerie N. Moran 

There were several hundred people when we got in line by 9:30AM and it was building up quickly as the time got closer to the reveal at 10AM.  During the wait, Disney Cast Members were interacting with guests and also handing out mickey ears hat to the first 500 people.

Image: Limited Edition Commemorative Mickey Ears Hat  

© Disney | © Randy Reighard

Image: Myself showing my #DisneySide with my Mickey Ears Hat 

© Disney | © Randy Reighard

Here's the meet and greet platform where Mickey and Minnie Mouse will be seeing their pals from 12-4pm.  © Disney | © Randy Reighard

At 10am, Dani a Disney Cast Member welcomed all guests to the opening ceremony of the Disney Store.  Guests waiting in line cheered and applauded when she asked 'If we were ready for the grand re-opening of the Disney Store?'  The store general manager Lisa came out and greeted everyone.  

Lisa also welcomed a pre-picked guest to open the store with the golden 'Mickey Key' to unlock the door entrance.  She was excited to announce 'Mickey and Minnie Mouse' to help along with the opening of the store.

Image: Mickey and Minnie Mouse waving at guests to help open the store. 

© Disney 

Image: Mickey and Minnie Mouse helping along to open the store.  

© Disney | © Randy Reighard

Dani took over the microphone and asked everybody to count down from 5 to open the store!  The place went wild and everybody cheered!  Here's the video that I took from my iPhone 6 of the opening ceremony (shown below)!!

© Disney | © Randy Reighard

Can't view it? Click here to watch it: https://youtu.be/SBV5syTwv7g

Image: Disney Cast Member Ceremony Flag. It was waved in the air when the store 'officially' opened to the public (shown in video above). © Disney | © Randy Reighard 

:: Disney Store 'Reveal' :: (*Spoiler Alert)

Image: New Look of Store Entrance at Lehigh Valley Mall in Allentown, PA

© Disney |  © Randy Reighard

Departing from the 'movie making theme' from this store original layout, we are now taking a new journey to follow the pixie dust blue walkway through an immerse interactive shopping experience with your imagination leading the way! 

You are first greeted with a glittering blue walkway at the front entrance. On to the right side, you see a 'Disney' style castle with a mannequin princess atop.  

Image: Disney 'style castle' with mannequin princess atop. 

© Disney | © Randy Reighard

On the left side, you are encountered with Star Wars merchandise.  The Disney Store imagineers creators took the time to even add Pennsylvania icons tributes along the top banner of the store that's unique to the surrounding area.

Image:  Wallpaper Art Decor  © Disney | © Randy Reighard

Image: Art Decor Pennsylvania icon tributes unique to the surrounding area 

© Disney | © Randy Reighard

We are now taking a new journey to follow the pixie dust blue walkway through an immerse interactive shopping experience with your imagination leading the way!

Image: Pixie dust blue walkway © Disney | © Randy Reighard

Along your journey through the immersive store, trees are planted along the path to greet you.  At first glance you see tree leaves glowing with colorful lighting, but if you look closely you can see some of your favorite Disney characters hiding among the leaves.

Image:  Trees are planted along the path to greet you. © Disney | © Randy Reighard

Image: Tree leaves with colorful lighting. Do you see a  hiding Disney Character among the leaves?  © Disney | © Randy Reighard 

:: Disney Store Cast Members ::

From the closure of the store to the revealing of the new store, the Disney cast members were hard at work to make sure the magic was shown to all ages who visited the store.

On June 6, 2015, Disney Cast Members from near by locations helped out to help control the lines and crowd.  They interacted with younger guests and older ones too!  They smiled and greeted each one who entered the LONG and VERY crowded lines in the mall to see the new store and as well to see Mickey and Minnie Mouse.

I'm happy to gotten to know these wonderful people who 'create magic' everyday when visiting their store.  It's the contagious 'magic' they share make a small shopping trip a memorable one.  

Image: Disney Cherry Hill, New Jersey Cast Members Posing With Mickey And Minnie

 © Disney | © Valerie N. Moran 

:: Disney Cast Member Creates 'Magic' For Guest ::

Disney is known for their exceptional leadership in the industry and exceptional service that Disney Cast Members help create 'magic' for guests who visit the parks and retail stores around the world.

On June 6, 2015, was no exception for a Disney Cast Member to create 'magic' for their visiting guests.  

From the time of the opening of the store at 10am till 12 noon, there was a 3 hour wait to see Mickey and Minnie Mouse.  

Image: Mickey Posing With Pals at the Lehigh Valley Mall in Allentown, PA 

© Disney | © Valerie N. Moran 

Image: Families Meet And Greet Mickey Mouse at Lehigh Valley Mall in Allentown, PA

© Disney | © Valerie N. Moran 

Those who braved the long waited line Felicia Beam was one of many guests who came to see the new store opening and as well see Mickey and Minnie Mouse.

Felicia was waiting in line but as the time got late, she had to leave the line..."My daughter's dance recital is tonight so my mom apologized to my brother for not being able to wait. Told him he'll see mickey in November. The cast member with mickey saw my mom leave the line and walk away. She ran to them and put my brother in the front of the line to see his best friend. He's so very happy now and so is my mom. So to the CM out there at Lehigh Valley Mall, thanks for making their day!" 

Image: Felicia Beam's brother with his pal Mickey Mouse. © Disney | © Felicia Beam

:: Special Thanks and Closing Thoughts ::

I'm very happy and honored to be part of the opening ceremony at my local Disney Store. The Disney Cast Members did a amazing job keeping the 'magic' flowing that day and as well keeping the crowds happy.

Special Thank You to © Valerie N. Moran for posting photos of the event and helping out the Lehigh Valley Mall Disney Store! 

Special Thank You to Felicia Beam for sharing her Disney Experience Moment that happened on June 6, 2015 and as well her brother having a special experience to see his best pal that day.

Special Thanks for Waymarking.com for the older pictures of my local Disney Store.  Click here to see the gallery.

Thanks for reading!  Until Then, talk to you real soon!

Reighard