Linda Mac's Orlando Adventures

The rededication ceremony to honor the transformation of Spaceship Earth and the official reopening of the attraction took place at 8:45a.m. today in front of the Fountains of Nations. Epcot’s Spaceship Earth made a stunning background for the event.

A special area directly in front of the stage was roped off for approximately 75 Siemens executives and their guests. The crowds were very light so everyone had a great view.

2008 Ambassador, TC Newman spoke briefly.

She then introduced Billy Flanigan, the emcee and former Cast Member who worked at the attraction. You may remember Billy from the cast of Tarzan Rocks.

Next up, The Voices of Liberty performed "One Voice".

Jim Hunt, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts gave the dedication speech by talking about the upgrade including Project Tomorrow and the role Siemens will play in the world of tomorrow. "We're always looking at our attractions and determining how we can take them to the next level to our guests. How can we do what only Disney can do?" said Jim Hunt.

He went on to say "Today we celebrate Siemens and the long-term strategic alliance which brought two global brands, Siemens and Disney, together," Jim said. "All of us at Disney are thrilled that Siemens chose to have a major presence at Epcot, both at World Showcase, with IllumiNations, and here in this one of a kind Future World Spaceship Earth. Many of us have experienced Spaceship Earth before, but the alliance with Siemens, and the creative energy with our Walt Disney Imagineers have simply brought it to new heights."

He then introduced the President of Siemens One, Ken Cornelius. "A lot of what we do is so impactful to people's lives in industry, energy and healthcare. We thought it was important for people to know the company behind it," said Ken Cornelius. "On behalf of the 70,000 employees of Siemens in the U.S.A., and the 400,000 employees around the world, it's my distinct honor to represent Siemens at this wonderful dedication ceremony,"

Cornelius said. "Siemens' solutions for the future mix with Disney magic in a way that's truly cutting edge. Here, you see not just what the future can look like but directly interact with the attraction so you can see yourself squarely in that vision. This attraction is truly one of a kind." Mr.Cornelius also quoted Walt Disney "that is all started with a mouse".

20 Cast Members arrived on stage carrying the attraction flags and were followed by special guests Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck and Pluto.

Mr. Cornelius had the privilege of pushing the button for a small fireworks show to end the dedication of Spaceship Earth on this beautiful but somewhat overcast day at EPCOT.