Jungle Book 2-disc DVD release

The Jungle Book Platinum Edition 2-disc DVD set was released today, labeled as the 40th Anniversary Edition. This was the last animated feature that Walt had his hand in.

I remember, as a kid, that on trips to Walt Disney World, we'd go to the Contemporary Resort Hotel and watch movies in their theater. I believe it was accessed by going through the cafeteria. I cannot remember what all we watched at that theater, but I'm pretty sure that "The Jungle Book" was one of them.

As an aside, singer Phil Harris, the voice of Baloo, was born in Linton, Indiana, where I have family roots. At least in later years, he'd return annually for, I think, either a golf outing or fishing event held in his name.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EPCOT!

Today marks the 25th Anniversary of Epcot Center in Walt Disney World, Florida.

Growing up, my family went to WDW three or four times, but the last trip occurred in about 1978. I didn't return until 1996 with my wife and extended family members. Obviously I missed the Epcot in its original form (Too bad it didn't occur in its INTENDED form!).

We had The Disney Channel during the last half of my childhood, so I was able to see visuals on Epcot that way. The images that still come to mind are: Dreamfinder and Figment (I think the reason Dreamfinder hasn't returned to Epcot is because he's under contract with Burger King as... the king!), General Motors' World of Motion, glimpses of World Showcase, and the Living Seas.