LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Nov. 18, 2005) – A sell-out crowd of more than 5,000 Central Floridians is expected to raise at least $160,000 – a record – for Children’s Miracle Network at tonight’s DisneyHand-Helping Kids Shine Ride-A-Thon. The proceeds of the annual event – held at the Magic Kingdom – will go directly to Shands Children’s Hospital at the University of Florida and the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women in Orlando.  

         “The Walt Disney World Resort, through its DisneyHand – Helping Kids Shine initiative, is committed to improving the lives of Central Florida’s children,” said Walt Disney World director of community relations Diane Ledder. “The record amount of money we expect to raise at this year’s Ride-A-Thon demonstrates just how strongly our Cast Members feel about giving back to their community.”