Salute to

Thursday, May 5, 2005 marked the beginning of the 18 month-long celebration at all Disney theme parks worldwide, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the opening of Disneyland. On a cloud-covered morning, with showers threatening, Disneyland was packed with guests and members of the media. Special tents, stages, lights, cameras and cables were everywhere, awaiting the 10 a.m. ceremony to commence the celebration. Then the sky lightened, a small patch of blue showed above, and LeAnn Rimes took center stage to sing "Remember When," the official theme for the 50th Anniversary Celebration.

Leanne Rymes on 05-05-05

Next up was Robert Iger, the CEO-elect of the Walt Disney Company, who took the stage to welcome the guests, members of the media, and to personally thank every Castmember who contributes daily to make the Walt Disney Company, and particularly the theme parks, a memorable and pleasant experience for every guest.

Next up was the introduction of the sole surviving host from Disneyland's original opening day telecast in 1955, Art Linkletter. By the way, Art shares his birthday with Disneyland, July 17. Only coming up this July, Art will be 93. He is truly amazing and has the grace, humor and speaking skills that have not tarnished with age. The only unusual incident during the ceremony occurred next, when Art introduced the CEO of the Walt Disney Company, Michael Eisner.

With the sound of his name, a very audible moan and a low rumble of "boo's" ran through the crowd, which must have been heard by Michael as well. But he made no acknowledgement of it, and proceeded with his remarks of thanks to all, and a hope for the continued success of the Walt Disney Company for years to come. After his brief remarks, he introduced the next performer, Christina Aquillara.

Christina sang "When You Wish Upon a Star" and, as a former Mouseketeer, did a perfect job. She was followed by the Ambassador Extraordinaire for the Walt Disney Company during Disneyland's 50th Anniversary, Julie Andrews.

Julie again welcomed us all to the "Happiest Homecoming on Earth" at Disneyland, and welcomed in the character's you've seen in those television commercials who were all coming home to Disneyland, which officially began the year and a half long celebration. Of yes, and the castle was unveiled to show it's striking new colors and decorations.

It was a wonderful day, and as the blue sky above shows, it was again blessed. While Art Linkletter was speaking, he noted the clouds and threat of rain, and asked Walt for a little help. He got it and "Walt Weather" returned. No rain fell during the ceremony, and while a shower did occur later in the afternoon, overall the day was as you see it above: comfortable, some sun, some clouds and a great time was had by all.

So the celebration of 50 years has begun. A big celebration will return starting on July 15th and leading up to the 17th, the official birthday for Disneyland. Space Mountain will reopen on July 15, 2005 and there will be more shows, events and spectacles for that long weekend. The new Parade of Dreams is playing twice daily and it is a very good show.

You'll find the 50th Anniversary Mickey icon throughout the park, and in unexpected locations. Here's a few:

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