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.  

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.

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.

                                                                   

It was a great first day mixed with excitement, sadness and nerves. Just like a Disney movie.