Newsletter 17 December 2007
From Disneys Online Worlds Guide (Wiki)
Yavn Speaks!
From 14 December 2007
Holiday greetings VMK'ers! Live and direct from VMK Central, it's the latest VMK news! And now just back from riding "it's a small world" holiday for the 400th time, heeeeere's Yavn!
Season's Greetings!
For me it's doesn't feel like a holiday until I've ridden "it's a small world" holiday. And yes, I like to ride it a lot.
You probably have a holiday tradition that you enjoy too – like building a Gingerbread house or holding a candle lighting ceremony? Whatever your tradition, we hope you enjoy the holiday no matter how you celebrate it.
Speaking of celebration, what do you think about all those new holiday items? Pretty amazing, huh? As our gift to VMK players we wanted to do something super special to end the year. This month we've added something new to VMK almost every day – and we're still hard at work making even more magic!
The Candy Cane Fence...
...and Snowman Hat are just a few of the new items we've just released this week! And there's still more great stuff to come!
We know you're really enjoying the month so far, but as they say, the best is yet to come – we've got lots more cool stuff on the way before the end of the year!
But before I give you the skinny on what's ahead, let's take care of a little business first:
Use Call For Help Wisely
First up, I need to remind you, again, using 'Call For Help' for anything other than an in-game emergency is a big no-no and will get you suspended from (meaning you won't be able to play) VMK. Asking questions about new items, or how to get a pin is NOT what 'Call For Help' is used for. We're really going to start cracking down on players that use 'Call For Help" for anything other than an in-game emergency, so make sure to spread the word.
You see, when you send in a question using 'Call For Help' or something else that's not a safety issue, you take valuable time away from our moderators who need to respond to more serious issues. So please, use 'Contact Us' if you have a question and use 'Call For Help' ONLY when you have a SERIOUS in-game emergency.
Using 'Contact Us'
Speaking of 'Contact Us' if you send a question or comment into VMK please make sure your email provider accepts our email. Some Spam Filters will automatically block e-mail from an unknown source unless you tell the program to allow it: To get email from VMK, allow mail from mailman@virtualmagickingdom.com.
That email address DOES NOT receive email. If you want to send us a note, question or comment, use 'Contact Us' – you can find the link at the bottom of any VMK web page.
Ok, so now that I've got that out of the way –
VMK Holiday Ride-A-Thon
If you're like me, around this time of year you probably hop in the car with your family to check out the holiday lights in your neighborhood – so why not a Ride-A-Thon around our neighborhood – the Virtual Magic Kingdom?
Forget Santa's Sleigh – we've got a great ride for you!
You heard me right! We've got a Ride-A-Thon this weekend that will showcase what you can do with all those new holiday goodies we're releasing throughout the month! The event runs this weekend!
HOLIDAY RIDE-A-THON
Friday (December 14th) from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Saturday, December 15th from 8:00 AM to 8 PM. Sunday, December 16th from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
All times are Pacific Standard.
A ride through our Holiday-themed rooms will not only get you into the holiday spirit but also get you some cool rewards that you can use to build your own Gingerbread house. And speaking of Gingerbread houses...
Gingerbread Holiday Room Building Competition
Those Gingerbread pieces are pretty sweet huh? I get hungry just building with them! Which brings me to an event you're going to be super excited to hear about – the first ever VMK Gingerbread House & Holiday Room Competition!
We're baking up an awesome Gingerbread Building Competition!
Here's your chance to show the Kingdom just how much holiday spirit you've got! We'll have full details for the competition in Event & Item Info section here on the Newsletter page soon, so be sure to check that out. But play those games for credits and stock up on Gingerbread pieces, you're gonna need them!
A Jolly Holiday Quest
Let's see, we've released over 25 new items this month, announced our biggest contest ever and in a second I'll tell you about our New Year's party. What? You still want more? Ok, then how about a Holiday themed Quest that rewards a never-released item?
It's a Jolly Holiday - Quest!
Starting Monday, December 17, we'll launch the VMK Jolly Holiday Quest. This new Holiday Quest includes challenges and questions about the VMK Jolly Holiday � the reward? A super awesome Blue Mickey Ears Holiday Hat!
Play the Jolly Holiday Quest and get this Blue Mickey Ears Holiday Hat.
A Magical New Year
After the holiday, be sure to rest up for our Magical New Year's Eve Party! That's right, before the year is over we're throwing one last hoorah to ring in a Magical New Year!
Like last year, VMK will have extended hours so our VMK friends on both coast/ time zones can celebrate! We'll have surprises, party hats and more! So stay tuned for the details.
Whew! Talk about a happy holiday! VMK has a lot going on this month! It's gonna be very magically!
Speaking of magic... now for my next trick...
See you soon!
-Yavn
Scam Alert
Earn Stuff Honestly
Using ANY hacking, scripting or editing program that modifies VMK, changes the game or generates codes from our mini-games is against VMK Values and will result in a permanent ban of your VMK account. This is a serious violation of the VMK Values.
If you are found to be involved in this type of activity, we will place a ban on your account (and computer) that will keep you and anyone in your family from playing the game – forever.
THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS !
You're not just hurting yourself – but your actions will affect other players on the same computer. What should you do to make sure you're not banned? Don't use ANY programs that generate codes and don't use any codes that you haven't earned yourself by playing our games.
Protect Your Personal Info!
VMK Staff will never ask you for your password or initiate contact with a player outside of the game, so don't respond to any individual posing as a VMK Staff member in e-mail or on a message board.
Many times scammers posing as VMK Staff will promise special access or an invitation to a special program in exchange for a player's login information. Be smart and don't fall prey to these foul villains! VMK will only contact you if you've sent in an inquiry through Contact Us.
We take scamming very seriously, and anyone caught attempting to scam a player through impersonation of a VMK Staff member in order to exploit a player will have all their accounts banned permanently from VMK.
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!
Staff Impersonation is NEVER allowed!
Impersonating VMK Staff 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 or HOST) or blue (for QA) Mickey ears.
Remember, VMK Staff will never ask you to trade any items.
You can always spot STAFF and HOSTS because they wear red Mickey ears.
VMK Staff will always wear the orange Mickey Pin.
You can identify a Community Leader by the 'CL_' at the beginning of their name and their blue wizard hat pin.
Beware of "Free Rooms".
Some VMK players advertise their rooms as "free," but when you enter them, they force you to pay (credits or items) or get booted from the room. Beware, these types of rooms are against the VMK Values and report players who engage in this kind of activity.
Got more questions about scamming? Read the FAQs page!
Safety Corner
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.
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 immediately!
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.
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.
Trading Card 101
Deal Yourself In!
The ALL NEW VMK Trading Card Game is now available! Play a Basic version of the game now!
Check out the VMK Arcade to play now!
Get In The Game!
VMK Trading Card Game: Basic is a simple card game of strategy that you could compare to Rock, Paper, Scissors. The basic goal is to get 10 points before your opponent does. Players are awarded a point for each turn they win.
Play against the computer in the fast paced game of strategy! Got questions about VMKTG:Basic– We've got answers, check out the FAQ here.
Dateline Disney
December 5
1901: Born Walter Elias Disney, Walt Disney is born in Chicago, Illinois. While Walt spent most of his childhood in Marceline, Missori, he would eventually move to Los Angeles, California to break into show business. After being turned away by most major studios, he strikes out on his own and forms Walt Disney Studios.
Walt introduces the world to his concept for an Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, an idea that will later become EPCOT.
Walt will create Mickey Mouse and with his team of animators, lead the charge for the Golden Age of Animation, during which time such classics as Snow White and the Seven Drawfs, Pinocchio and Dumbo are produced.
Walt will go on to develop an idea called 'Disneyland' into a theme park business that is loved by people the world over and continue to innovate in every aspect of entertainment.
November 26
2003: The second live action feature film based on a Disneyland attraction, The Haunted Mansion is released. The movie stars Eddie Murphy as Jim Evers, he plays a real estate agent who sees an opportunity to make a tidy commision selling the mansion but finds out those "Grim Grinning Ghost" have other plans!
The singing bust in The Hanuted Mansion movie are voiced by The Dapper Dans, the barbershop quartet that performs on Mainstreet USA at Disneyland.
1997: Flubber starring Robin Williams is released. The film is a re-make of the 1961 Disney classic The Absent Minded Professor starring Disney Legend Fred MacMurray.
1987: Tokyo Disneyland welcomes its 50-millionth guest!
November 25
1992: Aladdin is released. The film features Robin Williams as the voice of the Genie and Gilbert Gottfried as the voice of Iago the Parrot.
During the film Genie appears in over 50 different disguises including, a Scotsman, a dragon, a flight attendant, a zombie, Arnold Schwarzenegger and a tourist with a Goofy hat.
November 13
1940: Fantasia is released! The first major movie released in the United States with sterophonic sound, Fantasia set a new standard for the cinematic experience.
Chernabog's, magical brooms and dinosaurs – oh my!
It was not only the first feature film to be shown in multichannel sound, it was the first Disney animated film in which Walt Disney allowed his artist to use whatever colors they wanted. In addition to such classics as "Night on Bald Mountain" and "Rite of Spring" Fantasia also features a more modern looking Mickey Mouse in "The Sorcerer's Apprentice."
October 22
1993: Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas is released. The film features the music of composer Danny Elfman who also lends his singing voice to the main character, Jack Skellington.
October 5
1949: The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad, Disney's 11th animated feature film is released. The film features the voices of Bing Crosby (who narrates Washington Irving's The Legend of Sleepy Hollow) and Basil Rathbone (who narrates Kenneth Grahame's tale The Wind in the Willows).
October 1
1982: EPCOT, the second Park to be built at the Walt Disney World Resort opens to the public.
Spaceship Earth during the opening ceremonies.
Balloons and doves are released in a massive grand opening ceremony that features "The World Showcase March," a song written by the Sherman Brothers, exclusively for this occasion.
1971: The Magic Kingdom opens at Walt Disney World, it is the first Park to open at the Walt Disney World Resort. Walt Disney's brother, Roy Disney gives the dedication:
"Walt Disney World is a tribute to the philosophy and life of Walter Elias Disney... and to the talents, the dedication, and the loyalty of the entire Disney organization that made Walt Disney's dream come true. May Walt Disney World bring joy and inspiration and new knowledge to all who come to this happy place... a Magic Kingdom where the young at heart of all ages can laugh and play and learn - together."
August 30
2001: The Disney Cruise Line celebrates it's one-millionth Guest.
The Disney Wonder on the high seas.
1995: Imagineers break ground for the Coronado Springs Resort at Walt Disney World. The resort will feature an American southwest theme and open to the public on August 1st, 1997.
1936: Donald Duck gets his very own comic strip in newspapers across the country – up until this point Donald had only a supporting role appearing periodically in the Silly Symphony Sunday strips.
1908: Disney Legend, actor Fred MacMurray is born in Kankakee, Illinois. MacMurray started his career when he moved to Los Angeles in the late 1920s.
Personally cast by Walt Disney to star in Disney's first live-action comedy The Shaggy Dog (1959), MacMurray would go on to star in seven Disney feature films including, The Absent-Minded Professor (1961), Bon Voyage (1962), Son of Flubber (1963), Follow Me, Boys! (1966), The Happiest Millionaire (1967) and Charly and the Angel (1973).
It's the funniest shaggy dog story ever told!
MacMurray had a long and successful career in show business, also starring in the television show My Three Sons from 1960 to 1972. He was one of the first actors inducted as a Disney Legend in 1987. MacMurray passed away in Los Angeles in 1991 at the age of 83.
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.
Yeti's Tips & Tricks
You've got questions, Yeti has answers.
From 20 December 2007
The fur-covered guru of VMK gaming is back! With hot game tips on the latest and greatest in Virtual Magic Kingdom! This week the Yeti explains how you can become a Santa and give the gift of Mickey for the Jolly Holiday!
Hey there, in case you haven't noticed it's finally getting to feel like winter! Sure, it's freezing cold outside but that just makes you want to stay inside and play VMK! What more could an abominable snowman ask want?
Anyway, with our Jolly Holiday in full swing, there's a lot going on in VMK, so let's get to your questions about that new Red Surprise Gift!
Mr. Yeti, the new Red Surprise Gift is awesome. So where can I get it?
The new Red Surprise Gift is available in Emporium Specials for a limited time.
The Red Surprise Gift features a personal message and Mickey Mouse! Buy it in Emporium Specials or find someone that has the gift and trade them for it.
Mr. Yeti, how do I create a message for my gift?
First, double-click the gift. You'll see a window pop up on screen that will allow you to pick from 1 to 4 different background layouts. Now pick your background. After you've done that, enter a message title. Now, enter the message.
Messages use words from the VMK Dictionary, so if you can't use the word in game, you won't be able to use it in your message. Blank messages cannot be saved and after the message has been saved it cannot be changed.
Okay, I've created my message for my gift. How do I give the gift to someone?
There are several ways that you can give your gift to a friend. Once, you've created your message and prepared the gift, you can trade the gift to someone or you can place it in thier room. However, once a gift is traded or placed in a room you can't get it back (unless it's traded back to you) or pick it up again. You could also award a gift in a Quest that you have made.
Just like real gift giving, you can just give the gift without expecting something in return.
Mr. Yeti, someone gave me a gift. How do I open it?
To open a gift, once it's placed in a room simply double-click the Surprise Gift to open it. Out will pop one of your favorite characters with a custom message. After about a minute the character will return to the gift box. And don't worry, after the item has been opened, you get to keep it. It will not disappear from your room or inventory.
Remember it's the giving that's important, so be sure to stop by the Matterhorn and give me candy, churros and other goodies. The cold makes me very hungry. Now let's get back to game!
Your pal, Yeti
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 started in school or give other personal information about myself?
Starting 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 are in. 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? How do I become Staff?
VMK Staff members are NOT kids but actually adults trained specifically to handle VMK. VMK Staff may look like you in the game (but with cool Mickey ears) in reality 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.
VMK Staff should be treated like you would treat a school teacher: with respect. They're here to help you and keep you safe, but they also must step in when you're not following the game guidelines.
VMK Staff are very, very busy working to keep you safe. So while it's ok to say hello, 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.
PLEASE NOTE: Interested in becoming VMK Staff or a Host? We are not hiring new Staff or Host, thanks for your interest.
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: mailman@virtualmagickingdom.com. (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.
VMK @ WDW
Thanks for Playing!
The in-Park Questing portion of VMK at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World has ended. September 30, 2007 was the last day to redeem a Quest or get a virtual reward from VMK Central.
VMK Central will not offer or redeem Quest or distribute any Rewards after September 30, 2007.
Why is this happening?
As time has gone by, we've changed the way Quest, Rewards and other parts of VMK work. The game, very much like the Disney Parks, is always changing.
We've always tried to experiment with unique ways of doing things, like in-Park Questing, and will continue to do that (for example, we'll still be doing cool stuff in the Parks, like Merchandise Cards and the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage Quest) - but those things won't revolve just around VMK Central.
Can I turn in Quest to Magic Kingdom Guest Relations after VMK Central is gone?
No.
Can I mail in my Quest?
No. Walt Disney World doesn't have a system in place to take the Quest or distribute rewards.
When is the last day I can play or redeem a Quest at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World?
The last day you can Quest in-Park and redeem a Quest at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World for a Reward is September 30, 2007.
Will I be able to get any more VMK Cards at Walt Disney World or the Magic Kingdom?
The regular Reward Cards that you receive as awards for completing Quest won't be available after September 30, but look for those VMK Pin Card sets at select Pin Trading locations. For information about new cards, check future editions of the VMK Newsletter.
Does this mean VMK is going to end?
No. Just because we're closing VMK Central at the Magic Kingdom does not mean the game is going away. In fact, the game will continue going strong! And we've got lots of exciting additions coming in the next few months – stay tuned!
Event and Item Info
Happenings this Month in VMK
Happy Holidays!
NEW Red Surprise Gift!
Added 20 December 2007
Give the gift of Mickey! Available now in Emporium Specials!
This new Red Surprise Gift features a personal message and virtual Mickey plush character! To find out how it works check out Yeti's Tips & Tricks section.
VMK Gingerbread House & Holiday Room Competition!
From 17 December 2007
Here's your chance to show the Kingdom just how much holiday spirit you've got!
Build your best Gingerbread House or Holiday Room using the Holiday and Gingerbread pieces. Use a winter theme or any theme (Holiday Jungle Cruise, anyone?), but you must use Gingerbread and Holiday pieces in your room.
This is an individual room competition. You must submit your registration following our guidelines below:
1. The room MUST BE NAMED in the following way: "Gingerbread House (your player name)"
2. When you register ONLY PROVIDE your player name and the name of the room you are entering in the competition.
3. Gingerbread Houses/Rooms will be judged by the following categories:
-Best Theme -Most Creative -Best Overall (this includes both most creative and best theme)
There will be 10 First Prize winners and 1 Grand Prize winner from each category.
Registration opens today, Monday December 17th at 4:00 P.M. PST. Only the first 2000 players that register (and do so following the guidelines) will be accepted.
When registration opens, you will find the VMK Gingerbread Competition Registration option in the 'Contact Us' menu. 'Contact Us' is located at the bottom of any vmk.com webpage.
When you register please make sure that you enter a valid email address that can receive messages from us. Registration will close when we have received 2000 player entries, the registration option will be removed from the 'Contact Us' menu. We will reply to the players that qualified during open registration.
Again, only the first 2000 players that follow the registration guidelines and enter the contest when registration is open will be judged.
Your Gingerbread house/holiday room must be completed by midnight December 25th.
Judging will begin on Wednesday, December 26th and end Sunday, January 13th. Winners will be announced on Monday the 14th of January. A Room Judging Flag will be placed in your room once your room has been judged.
While it is not required, VMK encourages you to keep your room open during the event so other players can enjoy what you have created. Prizes for the event will be announced after registrations have been closed.
Begin planning your Gingerbread Holiday treat today!
From 18 December 2007
Thanks to the players that registered for the Gingerbread House Building Competition! Details on judging and finalist coming soon!'
From 18 December 2007 (updated)
Build your best Gingerbread House or Holiday Room using VMK's Holiday and Gingerbread pieces. Use a winter theme or any theme (Holiday Jungle Cruise, anyone?), but you must use Gingerbread and Holiday pieces in your room.
This is an individual room competition. You must submit your registration following our guidelines below:
1. The room MUST BE NAMED in the following way: "Gingerbread House (your player name)"
2. When you register ONLY PROVIDE your player name and the name of the room you are entering in the competition.
PLEASE NOTE: If your name does not fit in the room title "Gingerbread House", please make sure you have your room titled "Gingerbread House," your room, provided you follow the other guidelines, will be judged.
3. Gingerbread Houses/Rooms will be judged by the following categories:
- Best Theme - Most Creative - Best Overall (this includes both most creative and best theme)
Your Gingerbread house/holiday room must be completed by midnight December 25th.
There will be 10 First Prize winners and 1 Grand Prize winner from each category.
Registration for this event is now closed. Again, only players that register following our guidelines exactly will be judged.
Judging will begin on Wednesday, December 26th and end Sunday, January 13th. Winners will be announced on Monday the 14th of January. A Purple Room Judging Flag will be placed in your room once your room has been judged.
While it is not required, VMK encourages you to keep your room open during the event so other players can enjoy what you have created. Prizes for the event will be announced in a future edition of Yavn Speaks and the Event Info section of the VMK Newsletter.
Begin planning your Gingerbread Holiday treat today!
Check out these NEW items!
The Candy Cane Fence...
...and Snowman Hat have jsut been released! Check our shops for more new items!
In Emporium Specials...
Warm up for the holiday in this Mickey Blue Sweater and matching Mickey Blue Beanie!
Minnie Beanie Red
Minnie Sweater Red
In the Emporium...
The Flat Mint Block Green is a sweet treat!
Standing Mint Block Green
In the Gingerbread section of the Emporium...
Get the Gingerbread Wall with Window!
Gingerbread Roof Corner Block
Gingerbread Roof Steeple Block
In It's a Small World Imports Specials...
Get the Candy Cane Yellow!
Toy Soldier Green
Pink Holiday Wreath
Stack of Presents
Get the Gingerbread Roof 3x1 in the Gingerbread section of the Emporium shop!
Get the Gingerbread Corner in the Gingerbread section of the Emporium shop!
Get the Hanukkah Presents in It's a Small World Imports Specials!
Get the Reindeer Mickey Ears Hat in Emporium Specials!
Get the Candy Lollipop Flower Green in Emporium Specials!
Get the Gingerbread Wall with Doorway in the Gingerbread section of the Emporium shop!
Get the Gingerbread Wall with Lights in the Gingerbread section of the Emporium shop!
Get the 1x1 Gingerbread Roof Block in Emporium Specials!
Get the Holiday Skeleton at the Helm in It's a Small World Imports Specials!
Get Unlimited Use Snowman Magic in It's a Small World Imports Specials!
Get Single Use Snowman Magic in It's a Small World Imports Specials!
Get the Winter Wonderland Room in the Rooms section of the Shop window!
Get the Red Gumdrop Chair in Emporium Specials!
Get the Chocolate Bar Carpet in Emporium Specials!
December is Jolly Holiday month.
Check the Community Calendar for more events, details and event times.
Room Makeover
Making better Guest Rooms, one room at a time!
Each week VMK selects lucky players from our community at random for a Room Makeover.
We post the results here, including BEFORE and AFTER pics – plus tips you can use to make better rooms.
Let's take a look at another NEW room makeover with our very own HOST Sparky! Take it away Sparky!
This week:
Yamushi's Castle Room
and...
BrightCloudyBoy's Royal Table
Here ye, here ye, this week we present two Royal Room Makeovers courtesy of Sir Sparky. Ladies and gentlemen of the kingdom, Sir Sparky...
Hello there fellow citizens! It's been a few weeks since I've roamed the Kingdom in search of players in need of a Room Makeover! Well, I've returned from my journey through the Kingdom with not one, but two Royal Room Makeovers!
First up, let's check out Yamushi's castle room.
When I first met Yamushi, she was looking for a place to entertain her friends. She had already placed a few Royal Sky Flats in a room, so we used these for inspiration as we created a royal room in the clouds!
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Sure there's plenty of room to keep a dragon in here but we need something more suitable for our loyal subjects.
For starters, since we're building a room in the clouds, we'll need a sky. Using those Royal Sky Flats, we built two walls. One at ground level and another stacked atop Coffee Table Crates. Building a wall this way provides complete floor to ceiling coverage and will really make those Guest feel like they're floating in the clouds.
Now let's decorate the room! Snow Carpets have a soft, plush look but they can also be used to make a floor look like it's covered by clouds. Pirate and Nemo thrones (in Yamushi's favorite colors of blue and black) are used for seating. We added Madame Leota and Coffee Crate tables and placed them all in a diamond pattern to add balance to the room.
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The Royal parlor is polished and ready for Guest.
Finally we place a blue and black Glass Slipper Seat in the center and add four Dreams Castle Turrets to make the room look like it's part of a larger, enchanted castle. Three Dreams posters and a Penny Press are added for a finishing touch.
I said goodbye to Yamushi and started to wander the Kingdom in search of another player worthy of a Royal Room Makeover...
Another Royal Remodel
I hadn't gone far when I found myself in the rather empty throne room of BrightCloudyBoy. This was one room that was certainly in need of a royal re-working.
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A king in need of a court.
Using our royal court theme and BrightCloudyBoy's favorite colors (regal red, royal blue, and majestic purple) we started building a throne room fit for a king.
The first thing I noticed was our throne room needed a podium for our thrones, so using black Coffee Table Crates, a few well placed and hidden Ace of Spades rugs, two Captain Nemo Thrones, a couple of Sword in the Stones and Haunted Mansion Candelabras, we made the perfect place for nobles to rest their weary feet.
Of course, a throne room wouldn't be complete without a place for adoring subjects to gather and greet. Solution? Placing Pirate Map Tables and Pirate Thrones side-by-side to create two long banquet tables, while a Captain Nemo Organ in the back of room sets an enchanting mood.
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"Hearby declaring this room now a King's Court!
Finally, two Prince Phillip Shields are placed on the walls to show strength and nobility to our loyal subjects.
Come one and all to BrightCloudyBoy's Royal Table and Yamushi's Royal court! But make sure you're dressed in your most royal attire for these remodeled rooms. Until next time, may you all have a royal and rewarding day in the Kingdom!
HOST_Sparky
Submit your room for a Makeover using Contact Us.
Top Players
Updated 18 December 2007
Create a Great Guest Room!
Get Recognized!
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This week's top honors in the Best Guest Room category goes to AceFighterPilot for his festive Santa room.
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 Room, Best Guest Room or Best Quest Room!
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.
The weekly Best Guest Room Winner wins a party in Club 33!
Send in your nomination now!
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
| | The Holidays are coming early for AceFighterPilot who created his very own Santa! Stop by and say hello to jolly old Saint Nick and spend a Holly Jolly Holiday With Santa!
The Best Guest Room Winner receives: |
Best Game Rooms
 | This maze has twists around every turn. You can go your own way in the Ship in the Trees by Blinder but choose your path wisely.
The Best Game Room Winner receives: |
Best Player Quests
 | Ranch really knows how to use that Quest kiosk! See for yourself in the Virtual Disney World Quest! Each Quest is different and offers a new challenge.
The Best Quest Room Winner receives: |
New players are selected weekly in each category depending on number of nominations/submissions.
Players who have previously won as a Top Player do not receive the Room Award Pin twice, instead, they receive a VIP Award Pin.
Room awards offered may change without notice. VMK reserves the right to subtitute or change awards at any time.
New to VMK?
A Guide for New Players!
Welcome to Virtual Magic Kindgom. Thanks for joining us! It's a big Kingdom out there and we want to help you make the most of it!
Before you enter the Kingdom, please take a moment and review these tips, it will help make your visit to the Virtual Magic Kingdom a truly magical one!
First Things First!
Like any community, our Kingdom has guidelines to keep things safe and fun for everyone.
- We know you're excited to enter the Kingdom, but before you do take a moment to review the VMK Values.
- The VMK Values are our rules of play, if you aren't familiar with them and don't follow them you could get banned from the Kingdom and you don't want that!
Get In The Game!
If you're new to games (or VMK), don't worry, help is here! We've got plenty of info about finding your way around the Kingdom.
Ahoy matey! Adventure awaits you in the Virtual Magic Kingdom.
- Need a helping hand? Our Game Guide will walk you through all you need to know to get started.
- Got a question about something in VMK or that relates to VMK? We've got answers, and you'll find those in our Frequently Asked Questions, or FAQs.
Know Before You Go!
The VMK website has a ton of great information, but you should always check out the Newsletter page (hint, you're reading it now!) any announcements about VMK will always be made here first!
- For the latest events check out the Event Info section, also right here on the Newsletter page.
- Check our Safety section, Safety Corner for tips on safe play.
- Need game advice? Visit the Yeti for Yeti's Tips and Tricks for insider tips.
The Yeti's gaming advice and great tips!
- How about cool Disney Trivia and history? Push Trivia and Dateline Disney are just for you!
Still got questions? We have answers!
Check out the FAQs Page, if you can't find an answer there, use Contact Us to reach our support team directly.
VMK Cards
AWESOME REWARDS!
Check out the VMK Rewards Card Checklist and make sure you have all the VMK bling! What cards do you have in your collection?
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!
Contact Us Tips
Problems? Contact Us!
When you use Contact Us to ask a question or report an issue, please be aware of the following:
- If you use AOL or EarthLink for e-mail, you won't receive our response, as these e-mail providers have filters that block our replies. Please provide an alternative e-mail in the Contact Us form where it asks for your e-mail address.
- Some Spam Filters will automatically block e-mail from an unknown source unless you tell the program to allow it: To get email from VMK, allow mail from mailman@virtualmagickingdom.com. Please note this email address does not receive e-mail except via the Contact Us form.
Jolly Holiday
Magical Holidaykeovers
Hey everybody! Jake here to tell you about some of the holiday happenings going on at Walt Disney World and Disneyland. Come share in the magic and fun! Here are just a few of the holiday highlights:
At Walt Disney World Resort...
Cinderella Castle has been transformed into an amazing spectacle of shimmering lights.
- More than 200,000 tiny white lights were used to transforms Cinderella Castle into a magical ice palace.
- Each night at 5:45 p.m., guests are treated to the "Show Before the Glow", starring Mickey, Minnie, Cinderella, the Fairy Godmother, and more. It is a magical show that kicks off the lighting of Cinderella Castle.
At Disneyland Resort...
Sleeping Beauty's Castle has been adorned with an exciting new look for the holidays. Covered in newly fallen snow, the Castle is the centerpiece of a magical winter wonderland.
- At night Sleeping Beauty's Castle takes centerstage in the "Believe...in Holiday Magic" fireworks spectacular.
- A 60-foot-tall decorated Christmas tree is on display at the gateway to Main Street U.S.A.
- The Haunted Mansion has been decorated with a "Nightmare Before Christmas" theme.
- The daily parade has become the "A Christmas Fantasy" parade, featuring all of your favorite Disney characters dressed in festive holiday outfits, with Santa Clause following behind.
- Frontierland's Big Thunder Ranch, has been transformed into "Santa's Reindeer Round-Up". There you can see real reindeer as well as meet some of your favorite Disney characters.
At Disney's Hollywood Studios"...
The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights dazzles guests with an awesome display of lights and music.
- The spectacle originally began as a light display created by Arkansas businessman Jennings Osborne for his daughter. As the exhibit grew larger and larger, it was moved to the backlot of the Disney's Hollywood Studios" in 1995.
- The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights consists of over 5 million lights powered by 800,000 watts of electricity.
- Over 40 hidden Mickey's have been added into the lighting display.
- Dates: Nov. 12, 2007 - Jan. 6, 2008.
