"All cartoon
characters and fables must be exaggeration, caricatures. It is the very nature
of fantasy and fable.”
-Walt Disney
Sunday, March 6, 2016
WALT DISNEY QUOTE
Friday, March 4, 2016
WORLD SHOWCASE ADDITIONS (MY PICKS)
While the World Showcase is a
wonderful display of cultures and a much more efficient example of harmony than
the UN, its lineup has been the same since the era of Reagan. Many vocals of
displeasure have risen up from continents not included in the experience. Most
notably, South America and Africa (Yes, I know Morocco is in Africa but its
culture is Middle Eastern), have had supporters championing their causes and I
have long been in the ranks for World Showcase expansion. According to
Yesteryear (a site documenting Disney history), there is plenty of room for new
countries and in fact several of my ideas were once considered.
ISRAEL
Israel was originally considered and even had announcements hawking
its arrival to EPCOT. However, it was never built and the Holy Land remains
without a presence in EPCOT. The plans called for amphitheater to hear music
and a restaurant to taste the delicious favors of EPCOT. Alas, what could have been?
My plans for Israel would be an olive grove, a replica of the
Temple or the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a restaurant, statues to Israel’s
greatest citizens, a Dead Sea water ride and a museum with artifacts from
Israel. This outline would cover the major ingredients of the stew that is
Israel. It would offer thrills, chills and an appreciation of the Jewish
nation.
Will an Israeli pavilion ever happen? At this point, I
severely doubt it. Israel is cast as a pariah in the media and the moment that
Disney would announce the construction, the supporters of Palestine would mobilize
social media with hashtags and threats of boycotts. It is extremely
disappointing. Israel has one of the richest cultures in the world and would
make an excellent addition to the World Showcase. Quite frankly, the complaints
of any dissension should be ignored. Germany and Japan committed some of the
evil deeds ever done in World War II and they were correctly added. No nation
is perfect (and Israel is right in their actions, IMO). Focus on the culture
and the history.
RUSSIA
I am using the Russian imperial flag because it is superior
to the current bland design. Russia is another one of those nations with
concept art that never quite made it to EPCOT. Maybe Epic Mickey 3 could visit those lands? Yes, Soviet Union Russia was
on the drawing board, Walt, most likely, would have disagreed. He was a strict
anti-Communist.
My outline for Russia contains a huge replica Orthodox Church
with historical icons, a wax museum of the tsars of Russia, a folk band, a Russian
train ride from the Baltic to Siberia and then on the way back, it is a high
speed thrill. Finally, a restaurant showcasing all tastes of Russia would be available
for reservations.
Will Russia ever be built? Maybe after Putin is not longer
kicking butt, er, I mean in office. Relationships between Russia and America
have been icy since the Communists took charge. Even after the Soviet Union
toppled and disbanded, Russia and the USA aren’t backyard BBQ buds. With Putin
revealing his aspirations of expansion, a Russia expansion, ironically, seems
unlikely. The Soviet Union was a horror show like Nazi Germany and Japan in WW2;
however, Germany and Japan have moved on and reformed. Russia still has its scarring
from the Mongol invasions and needs to show its strength. Hopefully, the
Russian pavilion someday will take its place. Eastern Europe needs a headliner.
Once again, I decided to use a retired flag to represent a
country. Ethiopia is known as the Lion of Judah and the lion must roar.
Interestingly, the Hussite or other Christian lambs hold holy objects in the
same stance. Isaiah 11:6 is right yet again. Central and Southern Africa needs
a country that shows off its culture and the Outpost is not enough. Ethiopia
was one of two countries not colonized during the Race to Africa, Liberia was
the other. In fact, it beat off an Italian attempt in the 1890’s, which explains
the Italian conquest in the 1930’s. It was also surrounded by numerous Muslim
countries that attacked, for one of those wars, Portugal (that is surprising team
up!) helped and using gunpowder beat off the invaders. Ethiopia, also,
supposedly has the Ark of the Covenant. Lots of history for a country that is
now best known for hunger jokes.
My plans for Ethiopia include a restaurant serving the finest
dishes from the country, a museum displaying its tenacity for independence against
bigger nations, a band playing traditional music, and finally a super headliner
ride coaster ride in a race for the Ark of Covenant. It doesn’t need to include
Indiana Jones, especially since Raiders
of the Lost Ark took place in Egypt. The track would weave and dodge
through the mountains with special effects galore.
Would Ethiopia be considered? Hard to tell. EPCOT originally
had advertisements for Equatorial Africa and the Outpost and both of those
concepts take all the elements of Africa into a blender. This may be due to the
perception of most people that treat Africa as one giant country or that the
savanna receives most of the attention. Ethiopia would make a fine addition for
several reasons. Animal Kingdom already covers the safari aspect of Africa.
Ethiopia offers a view of Africa’s independence and a chance to expand outside
of the limiting stereotypes.
PERU
Out of all the available countries
to pick from South America, Brazil would probably earn the nod because of its prestige, size,
influence, and its desire to be a world player. I am a born contrarian and thus
Peru is my selection. I swear that The
Emperor’s New Groove has little to do with my decision. Ok, it has a decent
amount. Peru also offers an amazing mountain range and we all know that Disney
does mountains extremely well. The Brazilian rain forest can go in the South
American part of Animal Kingdom.
My Peruvian plan includes a restaurant highlighting the best
dishes of Peru, a folk band, a museum explaining the heroic sacrifice behind
the flag, character meet and greet with Kuzco in a glorious throne room and a
slow boat ride through an Inca temple with a twist.
As I wrote before, Brazil is the most likely candidate for a
South America expansion but I think that I made a good case for Peru. Peru fits
in with the mountain motif and offers another chance for characters which my
other picks do not and neither does Brazil.
Sunday, February 21, 2016
WALT'S QUOTE
“I get red,
white, and blue at times.”
-Walt Disney
WALT'S QUOTE
“I think we
have made the fairy tale fashionable again.”
-Walt Disney
I wish to be a screenwriter for Walt Disney Animation and I
plan to script fairy tales. They are among my favorite stories due to their inspirations
and hope. I want to give back that hope.
WALT'S QUOTE
“You may not
realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in
the world for you.”
-Walt Disney
Friday, February 12, 2016
FEBRUARY 1ST PART TWO
After I exited the train station, I checked the time and
realized that the 3 o’clock parade was about to commence. (A common question
for Cast Members consists of what time does the 3 o’clock parade start? Of course,
the guest is trying to ask what the best location for viewing is). I plopped
myself down on the bench with the Goofy statue. My seat gave me a straight away
screenshot view of the Roy Disney and Minnie statue. Sadly, most guests are not
aware of Roy’s contributions to the company. If Walt was a creative wizard,
then Roy was a financial wizard. Walt had many talents, but the handling of money
was not a skill he possessed. If not for Roy, Walt would have gone bankrupt and
worked for others. Walt died in 1966, five years before Walt Disney World
opened. The park opened thanks to Roy who delayed his retirement to make sure
it was built. Roy changed the proposed name of Disneyworld to Walt Disney World
because it was Walt’s dream. Roy eight years older than Walt had spent his life
looking after his younger brother and had always encouraged him. Their story is
a true testament of brotherly love.
There is a cool story about the statue. Roy, as a true
gentleman does, sits down at the end of the bench. This action is done in case
a lady would wish to sit down. By positioning himself at the end of the bench,
the lady would not have to sit down next to a stranger. However, Minnie is daintily
planted right next to Roy signifying her trust of him. It is another one of those
Disney details that plusses the plus, a Walt Disney trademark.
Main Street is at the end of the parade route, thus the 3 o’clock
parade typically doesn’t reach Main Street USA until 3:25. This edition of the
daily parade is the Festival of Fantasy which is accomplished by a catchy theme
song and traditional Disney songs. The floats as usual are magnificent and one
float in particular is Maleficent! Yes, there is a fire breathing dragon. The guests
are both amazed and shocked. Prince Phillip leads the way in front of the float
and makes fighting gestures towards his foe. Several princesses share a float
including Anna and Elsa! However, my favorite princess Rapunzel has her own mode
of transportation and her beau Flynn Rider makes an appearance! That was a
pleasant surprise. The Lost Princess>others. The parade finished up with
Mickey and Minnie in a hot air balloon! Of course, Mickey is saved for last, he
is the star.
After the parade ended, I exited the Magic Kingdom for Disney
Hollywood Studios so I could catch Fantasmic! The bus was extremely crowded so
I gave up my seat for a lady as all men should, but unfortunately don't. My
generation is extremely poor in this regard. Needless to say, the journey to
the Studios was not that long; the hardest part is weaving through Magic
Kingdom traffic. The bus driver made good time and I entered into the Studios.
Tragically, Hollywood Studios removed the giant Sorcerer
Mickey hat from the middle of the park. I put away my grief and entered a
clothing shop. There, I found this awesome Galloping
Gaucho t-shirt. The store did not have any Steamboat Willie shirts in my size and I did not care for the Plane Crazy design, Plus, Gaucho is the forgotten short of the
original trilogy and I am born to be the outcast. Immediately, I raced to find
Sorcerer Mickey. In Hollywood Studios, Mickey appears in his outfit from Fantasia his sorcerer incarnation is my
favorite Mickey.
Since the Art of Animation was closed to make room for the Star
Wars Launch Bay (spoiler alert!), Mickey was placed in a soundstage. I think he
deserves better. The line was relatively short, but I planned on waiting
anyways. I was ushered in to see the boss before his daily showdown in
Fantasmic! I hugged him and held out my new purchased t-shirt for him to autograph.
I try to have Mickey autograph all my Mickey memorabilia. I told him that he
was my favorite Mickey and hugged him. Seeing the characters is possibly the
best portion of Disney for me.
I exited the soundstage to see the poster for the new
animated movie coming out and I made a silent vow that someday my movie would
be up there. Then I headed to the Great Movie Ride. This ride is my dad’s
favorite mainly because John Wayne makes an appearance. The waiting area has a
great movie screen showing previews for classic movies and my arrival was timed
perfectly for Errol Flynn’s Robin Hood picture. Love Errol Flynn. I won’t spoil
any of the action, but the ride is still awe-inspiring and feels like you are
placed in a real film.
The Great Movie Ride takes up a fair chuck of time so I
needed to grab some grub before I went to get a seat for Fantasmic! I decided
upon the ABC Commissary mainly due to its convenient location. My family had
never eaten before at Hollywood Studios so this was a new experience. I ordered
a steak, green beans and fries combo for only $11.99! A bargain. The steak was
a good cut and the sides were plentiful. I ate quickly and hoofed to Fantasmic!
The gateway to Fantasmic! is lined with impressive posters
and banners of the characters. I snapped a few photos but I was in a hustle to
get a great seat. Providence was with me as I managed to grab a second row seat
in the middle of the amphitheater. I had to wait about 45 minutes for the show
to start but it is worth it and the DJ played some good tunes to pass the time.
A fellow guest got the whole crowd to do the wave which was extremely impressive.
I am not going to spoil any of Fantasmic! Mere words cannot
do the show justice. It is a spell-binding combo of magic, special effects,
imagination and music starring Mickey Mouse as he battles Disney’s fiercest villains
in his dreams. I have the show memorized and I will forever get chills and be
bought to tears by the performance. It is Mickey’s tour de force. Walt would
love it.
When Fantasmic! ends, there is a mad rush to get to the
exits, I carefully planned my exit route and I got to the exit without dying. I
immediately headed to the Star Wars Launch Bay to meet Chewbacca and Darth
Vader. They do not sign autographs, but holy cow who cares?! It is Chewy and
Vader! Chewbacca was his friendly self and I made the mistake of asking his
character attendants if Vader signed autographs. They, in perfect character,
asked if I was an Imperialist. I had to do some quick taking to assure them I
pull for the Rebel Alliance. The Vader character attendants are extremely cold
and impersonal. You must have your cameras ready and dump your backpacks in a
corner. Vader himself is not friendly. He pointed at one place and I hastily
obeyed. Then he pulls me away from that spot! Scary stuff.
I explored the props present and left for the exit. However,
I forgot about the fireworks and was completely surprised by the resulting
booms. The bursts of pyrotechnics were accompanied by Star Wars music and it
was completely memorizing. I enjoyed the show and then basically ran to the
EPCOT bus stop to sneak in 20 minutes worth of rides before that park closed. After going through an advanced screening (for the second time that day), I dashed to Test Track. Normally, I would enjoy the beauty of EPCOT at night but I was in a hurry. The single ride line was only 5 minutes and thus I quickly was seated in a car. The ride is still awesome and fast but I prefer the old Test Track to the new version. I finished up my EPCOT journey by buying an Indiana Jones Mickey Mouse. Then, the park closed. A lengthy bus trip later and I was back in my dorm.
Tuesday, February 9, 2016
FLORIDA NIGHTS
Florida nights where the air is cool, but not chilly
Mosquitoes hover around, but you do not mind them
For the smell of oranges distracts you from malaria
It is an earthly paradise, Ponce De Leon actually found
The Fountain of Youth except the renewal is not drinkable
I long to stay forever, yet I know I cannot since I am not
of retiring age.
FEBRUARY 1ST PART ONE
On February 1st, I went to see Fantasmic at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
However, that is not all that I did that day. In the afternoon, I boarded the
bus to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge as a gateway to the Magic Kingdom. However, I took
the wrong turn in the lobby and ended up at the bus station. I decided on a
whim to head to Fort Wilderness Campground.
In my early days whenever my family vacationed at Walt Disney
World, we always stayed at Fort Wilderness since we owned a fifth wheel RV. The
campground holds fond memories for this Disney Cast Member. The bus route from
the Lodge to the Campground is a backwoods road not usually seen by tourists.
There are two bus stations at Fort Wilderness. The Outpost is in at the
entrance of the campground and the Settlement is located near Bay Lake and the
dining establishments. I was deposited at the Settlement which meant I did not
need to pick up another bus to reach Bay Lake.
I snapped some pictures of the dusty trail leading to the restaurants
and lake. I felt like a pioneer finally reaching California. Of course,
pioneers did not need to worry about dodging golf carts! The boat was not in
port or streaming in, so I strolled around and entered the Settlement Trading
Post. The Trading Post held an assortment of Fort Wilderness merchandise,
general Theme Park material, plushes, food options and coonskin caps. With my
generous discount, I purchased a Disney World Railroad t-shirt. I love the
railroad and Mickey was on the t-shirt. Love that mouse!
I exited the Trading Post and studied the wanted posters hanging
on the wall. They were notices for famous Western outlaws. An idea formulated
in my head that Fort Wilderness should have a game like the Sorcerers of the
Magic Kingdom where guests hunt down and capture Western criminals. They could
include Davy Crockett and other western Disney heroes and villains (like the Bat
Bandit). Imagination is an amazing thing.
I saw the boat coming in so I headed to the docks. It was a
beautiful day with the perfect combination of temperature and sunlight
reflecting off the water. I was fortunate to claim a front seat on the boat
where the breeze danced and the water sprinkled. We passed the relics of River
Country and Discovery Island, both silent ghosts to change and misfortune. I
was thinking that Bay Lake was the ideal place for a naval battle (except for
the narrow bridge separating the Magic Kingdom section from the Wilderness
section, it is a bottleneck.) We streamed by the Wilderness Lodge without
stopping to my surprise. Apparently, both resorts are serviced by different
boats instead of a combined service as in the past.
There was a family next to me that was so excited by the sites
especially when Magic Kingdom comes into view that they had to be Disney
virgins. The bike dude looking father had the same Mickey muscle shirt that I
have in my closet. I did not know if I should be elated or dismayed. It is
always nice to see tough guys embrace Disney. The boat docked and I headed in
the entrance line, had my bag checked and received my complimentary entry to
the park.
I immediately grabbed a park map and headed up the ramp to
the train station. I always like to ride the train in a complete loop in honor of
Walt. It is a relaxing ride and allows you to see the outlines of the Magic
Kingdom. Unfortunately, there were many chatting tourists who did not realize the
concept of quiet train rides. The train has stations in Frontierland,
Fantasyland at Storybook Circus (replaced Mickey Toontown’s station) and Main
Street USA. All of those stations make logical sense. Trains opened up the
frontier, the circus came to town on the train and Main Street USA is homage to
Marceline, Missouri Walt’s boyhood home and trains were present there.
You cannot see much of Adventureland from the train since the
brush conceals everything. However, you glimpse the back of Big Thunder
Mountain and discover that the population is now zero. Plus, there is a cool
Indian reservation that the track bisects. The detail is incredible. At
Storybook Circus, the station is decorated with posters and authentic touches.
Detail is everything with Disney. Soon enough, we returned to Main Street USA,
the gateway to the Magic Kingdom.
I disembarked and explored the railroad memorabilia underneath
the station. There are rarely seen photos of Walt playing with his backyard railroad.
It is tragic how many guests pass by this without taking the time to appreciate
it. Railroading is in my family’s blood and I long to ride an old-fashioned
train across the nation. Walt loved progress but he also understood the need to
appreciate the past. That is why trains circle every Magic Kingdom in the
world. There are also many maps of railroad companies located in the lobby. I
searched for Warriors Mark to no avail. I did find Tyrone, Altoona, Bellefonte,
Birmingham (a little hamlet outside Warriors Mark which we should annex) and
Clearfield on the maps. It was cool to see my sphere of influence at Walt
Disney World.
Sunday, January 24, 2016
TRADITIONS (DISNEY STYLE)
Disney Traditions is eagerly awaited by every Cast Member in
the Disney College Program. We receive two special mementos of our storybook
journey. I am not going to reveal them right now, that would be a spoiler and what
would be the point of reading this blog post?
While my one roommate Michael had his Traditions on Friday at
2:30, JC (my other roommate, see this blog has continuity) and I were scheduled
for Saturday exactly 24 hours later. We departed for the bus stop with plenty
of time to spare. Unfortunately, JC had forgotten his yellow paper for
Traditions and scurried back to the apartment to retrieve it. However, while
the bus was supposed to leave at 1:30, our bus driver with NASCAR speed,
entered the bus, gunned the motor and zoomed out of Chatham at 1:22. I was
texting a friend at this point and I never got the chance to ask the bus driver
to wait. I collected JC’s other material and prayed that he could find a way to
make it.
Like for Casting, the bus took us past the main gate where Mickey
and Minnie were waiting with welcoming waves. Now, in the forward tradition of
the company, massive construction was present as an apparent widening of the
roads was happening. It certainly dispelled a little of the magic. My close
friend Mark Frederick messaged me to rant about his snow woes. Elsa had visited
him with around 18 inches of feathery sleet. I responded with a picture of the deceiving
sunny weather. It looked balmy, but the temperature hovered around 45 degrees.
He did not appreciate the picture.
The bus took us past the Contemporary Resort and the Magic
Kingdom to the building that housed Disney University. Massive parking lots
where the employees parked were located there. Remember, we do not commute by
pixie dust. We limbered off the bus and entered into the Disney themed
building. Like the Casting building, the walls were decorated with milestones.
When you have as much success as we do at Disney, a little showing off is
required and understood. They called out our groups and we processed into our
rooms where each individual name appeared on mouse ears on the TV screen.
On each table was a giant red box with a Mickey Mouse ear
themed ribbon. We were explicitly told not to open the box. Self-control won
out over primeval desire. To pass the time until we start at 2:30, the
moderators played a game of Disney Trivia. Intensity, I cracked my knuckles and
stretched out my arms in anticipation of victory. Disney Trivia: an event that
combines two of my favorite activities: Disney and scholastic trivia. The MVP
in me reemerged. The first few questions were distinctly amateur hour and I did
not bother answering them. Let the others feed on low hanging fruit. (Yes, I am
an elitist when it comes to Disney) But when the moderator asked: “Which two
characters made their appearance in Steamboat
Willie? My hand shot up on appearance.
A reader might be thinking that what an
easy question. However, I am the world’s biggest Mickey Mouse fan and it
was my obligation to answer it. For my correct answer, I received a pin. Other
questions went by without my attendance. I figured it was only fair to let
others win. But when no one could finish the answer to “Which two characters
made their debut in the Imagination ride in EPCOT?”, I had to step in. Someone correctly
answered the popular half of the duo, Figment, but I coolly stated “Dreamfinder”
for the other half. I gave away the duplicate pin.
After playing finish the lyric to a song, we moved on to “Stomp
the Moderator.” I asked my preferred question “Who scripted and drew the Mickey
Mouse Comic Strip for nearly 45 years?” Both Brittany and Michael (the
moderators) scratched their brains hoping for a nugget. Eventually, after the
fruitless struggle concluded, they requested the answer. I gave the name Floyd
Gottfredson. I explained how he wanted to be an animator and that Walt himself
told me to take over the strip for only two weeks on a temporary basis. As in
great Disney tradition, those two weeks turned into 45 years of adventure and laughs.
I informed everyone that they were being reprinted. Well, Mr. Gottfredson, I released
your name to them. Hopefully, they take the initiative.
2:30 arrived and the session started with the requisite
safety video. Safety is a main concern at Disney as we are responsible for
millions of guests and thousands of Cast Members. We were shown a video starring
Bob Iger, the CEO and Leader of the Club and he explained to us our great opportunity
and duty. Next, Michael asked us why we
were here. I swiftly whipped my hand and said I was here to make magic for
others. He nodded and said it was a great answer. To my astonishment, I was
handed a Mickey Mouse figure. He took a few more answers and went on to explain
our own language used at Disney. We put on a show so we use a different
language to grasp our jobs.
The theme of Traditions was that continuously stressed
(outside of safety) was We Create Happiness. As sappy as it appears in many
people’s minds, Disney is in the business of pushing optimism and creating
happy endings. We overwhelmingly prefer fantasy over realism. To prove the point,
we watch videos of kids learning that they were going to Disney. I honestly
say, if you watched those videos and felt nothing, you have no soul. The pure joy and unrestricted words brought
me to tears. Every kid deserves that chance and everyone deserves the best
vacation when they enter Disney’s gates.
Brittany and Michael shared a couple heartwarming stories
about creating Happiness. Michael worked at Splash Mountain and once a
Cinderella dressed girl rode Splash Mountain while sitting in the front row. Of
course, the water descended upon her form and messed up her makeup and dress. Her
older brother mercilessly teased her and Michael just said in his Frontierland
lingo: “Howdy Princess.” With those TWO
words as he emphasized, she recovered her spunk and informed her teasing
sibling that “I’m still a princess.”
Brittany told a touching story that was very similar to Up. She worked at a reservationist and
an older man walked up to make reservations at the Brown Derby at MGM, er
Hollywood Studios. She, using the personal connection, noticed his expansive
pin collection. He admitted that he was missing the Grape Soda pin based off
the badge Ellie gave Carl in Up. He
revealed that his wife had recently died. Now, I am going to introduce my own
theological slant, Brittany could have just expressed some sympathy and said a
prayer (if she was inclined that way) but going the second mile she hurried to
a pin stand, got the Grape Soda pin, alerted the Brown Derby staff and
rearranged for the pin to put on the plate. The next day, the old man went up
to her desk and asked if she did the deed. She admitted that she had. He gave her
a kiss on the cheek and said that he felt like his wife was there.
I will be truthful. I do not know if I will be able to create
magic on that same level, but I sure can try and as Michael or Brittany said
not every day will be super magical, but you will be renewed by guests and
coworkers.
They asked us then to all put our hands on the red box and
open it up. We did so and found mouse ears waiting. Michael and Brittany said
that they wished we could see our faces as we grabbed our gift. We were told that while other
companies say “big shoes to fill”, Disney says “big ears to fill.” A pity, I
have big feet than ears. ;)
After a short break, we were told that we could go to the
Magic Kingdom to see Cast Members in action or we could write a 39 page
journal. I am a born contrarian, so I voted for the journal. Fortunately,
Michael ignored my attempt at being clever. We were divided up into teams. My
team became the hero side. Unfortunately, our team name ended up being
Hercules. I wanted Mickey Mouse. Sorry, Mickey. The villain team was named
Maleficent. Since I was the tallest there, I was tasked with being the caboose
of our train. As with was a visit to the Magic Kingdom and not a march into
enemy area (Universal Studios), I was safe from being snatched.
We boarded transportation and arrived at the mythical Magic
Kingdom tunnels. Needless to say, I will not reveal any of the magical details
but I must have had the biggest grin on as my eyes captured everything. We
pushed open a door and strolled onto Main Street. It was tough being a caboose
when navigating Main Street. Yesterday was very cold and Disney guests should
not have to wear sweatshirts and winter jackets at Disney. We made our way to
the castle and were allowed to take some pictures.
We did a 180 around the castle and marched past the tea cups
and Cosmic Ray’s while maintaining our train movement. Our caravan finally
halted at the Carousal and was instructed to go out in groups and watch Cast
Members in action. My gang migrated to the Small World. While there, a guest approached
us and asked if we worked here. We all answered in a few days, but we decided
to hear her out. She explained that her stroller was stolen and did that mean
she was required to pay for it. I suggested that she find Guest Services and
explain her situation.
Following our helpful task, we met up with our team and
returned to the tunnels. A quick ride later, we returned to Disney University
and were surprised by a special guest. The Big Cheese himself Mickey Mouse
arrived to the marvelous tune of The Mickey Mouse Club March shaking a big gold
present. He opened the box to reveal our nametags which Michael informed us
that Mickey sprinkled a little extra pixie dust on. He called out the first
name and it was yours truly! That was a blessed moment and no they were not in
alphabetical order. J
The handout was completed and Mickey left to continue running
the park. I was officially part of the Disney family and I had a nametag to
prove my allegiance to the Club. Brittany and Michael shared the secret motion
for Tradition members to greet each other and said they hoped to see us in the parks.
They dismissed us and I reunited JC (I did not forget about my buddy) who
managed to catch another bus to Traditions.
Now I cannot wait to start working and hit the parks! Magic
making time. As Michael explained it can be hard to work at Disney World. We
work while everyone else has fun and their vacation time. But it is truly
rewarding. Saturday, January 23, 2016
SECOND DAY AT DISNEY
My second day at Disney was less of an Expedition Everest
than my first day. My only task was to attend Casting so I fill out my forms
and get fingerprinted to satisfy government regulations. (Scrooge McDuck
disagrees with all of them.)
I awoke early to make sure I was perfectly on time. Disney is
strict on that essential issue and our bus system is a bit tricky to grasp at
first. I got on the bus which left me at Vista an hour early. Well, lesson learned
and I did not let a lover crash and burn. I consider that a victory. In the
grand Disney World tradition of chatting with strangers, I talked to two Cast
Members about all those things Disney related from the parks to their jobs.
The female Cast Member told me that when she was in the
Program, she regretfully had to cut back on the number of her shoes to bring
due to limited space in her car. They both agreed that the cold that settled
for the morning was not welcomed. I joked that Elsa sometimes lets it go. That earned
me a chuckle. Both of the Cast Members exhibited the amount of outgoingness required
to work at Disney. They displayed a remarkable ability to make a conversation
personal and appear as close friends.
I was joined during my early sojourn by fellow female, DCP
participants one hailed from a small hamlet in Kentucky and the other from
Dansville, Illinois. The Kentuckian and I discussed how small towns (especially
towns from the South) received an unfair stereotype from the general public,
but we agreed that it is nearly impossible to overcome. That is the amazing
part about the DCP, you meet many people that are not similar to you but you
also meet many people that are similar and it is reassuring to know you are not
alone in your beliefs.
The bus arrived promptly on time (as usual in Disney) and we
all boarded after showing our I-9 documents and government issued ID to the
overseer. Disney does a great job of running a tight operation. The Mickey
Mouse jokes cannot refer to the company itself. The housing for the DCP is not
on Disney property, thus a medium length bus ride is required to past the
magical gates. The two Cast Members on this trip did a fine job of easing any
nerves. Both were foreigners, showcasing Disney’s diversity. One was from
Hamburg, Germany. Alas, I did not have enough time to chat with him and the one
from Argentina who did most of the talking explained that she was with the
company for 25 or 35 years. Impressive. That is my ultimate goal, albeit as a screenwriter
or an Imagineer. But she obviously enjoys her role and making magic.
The Casting building is located across from Disney Springs,
the revamped and renamed Downtown Disney. I expect that the old name (like MGM
Studios) will remain in circulation for some years as the old guard (like me!)
hold fast to tradition. After all, Walt Disney explored the future but remain nostalgic
for the past as iron horses transport guests around his Kingdom.
We were ushered into a marvelous golden room with golden statues
of iconic Disney charscters, most of which dated from Walt’s hand. I spotted,
of course my favorite, Mickey Mouse, but he was joined by temperamental Donald
Duck, his loyal pooch Pluto, bizarre Goofy, wise Jiminy Cricket, and a host of
others. I wanted to take a statue for myself.
The Casting process was efficient, as everything from hot
dogs and autographs are at Disney. I went back and met in a cubicle with a
helpful Cast Member who processed my I-9 documents. She was thankful that I filled
out the Portal information as instructed. I try my best.
From there, I went to fingerprinting as called for by Florida
law. It is not all sunshine in the Sunshine State, despite what the advertising
campaign states. The lady running the station I was directed to was extraordinary
patient with my unruly and un-relaxing fingers. Refusing to submit to any government
outreach must live in my fingers as they did not take to being scanned. Eventually,
with enough pressing and turns, the results were obtained.
I must comment on how all the Cast Members not directly involved
in the process were helpful and looked out for us as we navigated the labyrinth
that is the Casting Center. Many of them were also in the DCP and probably like
watching the next Disney generation pass through. It would be easy to lose
yourself, not just from the medieval maze design but from the distraction
presented by historic Disney memorabilia. It certainly caught my eyes. Too bad,
my employee discount does not work on it.
After the fingerprinting, I headed back to the bus and talked
with another Kentucky native on the way back. He said he hailed from Louisville
and I mistakenly assumed that he rooted for the Cardinals. He quickly corrected
me that he pulled for Big Blue Nation. I further discovered that this was his
second go-around for the Disney College Program and that his previous Casting
years ago took nearly 4 hours while
this time only swallowed up 45 minutes.
We parted ways at the bus stop back at Chatham. My second day
did not have the emotional upheaval as my first day, but I made important steps
in my DCP journey. Not every day will be a memorable one, but every day is
necessary to grow.
Thursday, January 21, 2016
FIRST DAY AT DISNEY!
I awoke that morning with a flutter of nerves and excitement jostling for control in my stomach. Disney, as always, brings me large amounts of joy and fears of unrealized expectations. Like anything you love does. We, and others, tell ourselves not to fear. After all, what is checking out to your dream compared to fighting Maleficent? Actually, they are very similar concepts and they arise out of trepidation of disappointment. There is no greater pain than a broken dream. However, one must chase the dream or suffer brokenness without trying and that regretful blow stings more than an attempt.
Continental breakfast at Comfort Inn, if not Waffle House quality, would have been a fine start to the start of the day if I could have choked down more than a few scoops of Frosted Flakes and pancake shaped eggs. Alas, my stomach did not allow admittance too much breakfast. However, I added enough to starve off hunger until lunch. I packed the remaining articles gathered on the floor and headed to my family’s waiting car.
It was a solemn trip to the Vista complex. We left early as to avoid expected traffic shortage since the trip to Steak n Shake the night before was filled with Radiator Springs red lights, Space Mountain length lines and Cruella De Vil inspired drivers. However, this morning the commute was quiet as a midnight parking lot. Thus, we arrived nearly 25 minutes early for my arrival time and were instructed to wait in the parking lot across the street. I felt like a peasant awaiting the opening of the castle’s gates. The prize was just out of my reach dangling on a fishing pole like in the State Farm commercial.
Finally, 9:15 ticked on the car’s clock and I crossed the gates to a secular promised land. The drop off area required all right turns guided by typical Disney quality signs. Sadly, they were lacking mouse ears. L I took a temporary departure from my family and slipped into the long line. Fortunately, my Christmas present of a Mickey Mouse fleece kept me warm amid the Pennsylvania like winds. At the beginning of my sojourn in line, I was unable to make any small talk or friends as the helpful, upbeat Cast Members were encouraging us to do so. I have always lacked that ability to establish a friendly conversation. The gift of gab exists only in my head and writing. Snappy dialogue falters with my stumbling pronunciations. Still, I kept at despite this rhyme sounding throughout my head “I gave it my best try/but I am not a speakeasy guy.” I managed to chat with a friendly fellow from Georgia. The Peach State certainly exports many peachy people.
The wait to receive your magic bringing assignment leaves you trembling with excitement. My dream placement was Pecos Bill’s in Frontierland in Magic Kingdom. I have many fond memories of that restaurant since my family always ate there on our previous trips. I am a nostalgic fellow. Plus, I love the Pecos Bill’s segment in Melody Time. Apparently, the Good Lord and Mickey knew better as my mission is in Tomorrowland at Cosmic Ray’s. At least, I am still in the Magic Kingdom, the hub of magic.
After receiving my assignment, I was ushered into a room where they take your photo for your housing ID. I managed to etch out a good smile. Then, I was directed to the line for my housing placement. Disney does an incredible job at organizing thousands of eager and nervous candidates. The assembly line method works for more than just cars and fast food. My room was Chatham #14032, a peaceful place with the terrain of Fort Wilderness Campground.
My family helped me move into my abode for the next few months. It is a spacious set up with a roomy bedroom, wide bathroom, a furnished kitchen and a balmy balcony. I met my two roommates JC and Michael, both of whom hail from the Windy City. That is a huge contrast to this rural resident. However, we and our families instantly got along. Disney magic can do that to strangers.
After unpacking my many suitcases and backpacks, we drove to Wal-Mart for a few last minute necessities (like toilet paper and paper towels) to complete the feeling of home. One picture and tearful good-byes were shared as my family needed to return home for jobs and college. I left them with a “see ya real soon.” We, at Disney, never say good bye. That implies that we will never meet again.
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