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Cover Photography © Mike Billick Issue 51 : The Dream of a City, the 40 Contents Promise of Tomorrow Disney News...... 8 Calendar of Events...... 12

MOUSE VIEWS...... 15 Guide to the Magic by Tim Foster...... 16 The Hall of Flags Shutters and Lenses by Tim Devine...... 18 48 Hidden Mickeys by Steve Barrett...... 20 by Jamie Hecker...... 22 Disney Cuisine by Dawn Caitano...... 24 Disney Touring Tips by Elizabeth Mallers...... 26 Snacking Around Disney Secrets the World 52 by Jamie Hecker...... 28 Magic by J Darling...... 30

FEATURED ATTRACTION The American Adventure...... 32

FEATURED FILM The Continuing Moana...... 36

Legacy of the Hall of 58 Wandering the World...... 68 By the Numbers...... 69 Presidents In Search Of...... 70 Quick Quiz...... 72 Kids Korner...... 74 Mystery Quest...... 78 Tim & Lou’s Top 10...... 80 Walt and Roy: Brothers, , 64 and Friends Surprise! There are many things we all love about . Everything from the attractions and fabulous restaurants to hidden treasures and the incredible attention to detail. But on a recent trip, I was reminded of another special joy that can be experienced at Disney…that of being surprised. No, I’m not talking about the ghoulish haunts that pop up from their hiding places in ’s cemetery, (though I’ve been know to let out a shriek or two when that happens!). I’m actually talking about those unexpected moments where you’ll happen upon an event that you hadn’t planned on seeing. Or, on a more whimsical note, to be surprised by an inside Disney joke or gag. For instance, on my most recent trip, I hadn’t planned on going to Disney’s Hollywood Studios to see the Wars: A Galactic Spectacular fireworks show this time around. (Though if you haven’t seen them I HIGHLY recommend them; even if you’re not much of a fan, they are truly spellbinding!). But one evening I happened to be sitting out on my resort balcony, enjoying a cool evening breeze (admittedly a rarity), when suddenly the sound of fireworks boomed through the night sky. Since I was staying at the Swan, I presumed I was hearing IllumiNations. However, blooming flowers of red and white fireworks suddenly appeared in the sky…in the opposite direction of Epcot. I realized then that I was getting a front row viewing of the Star Wars nightly spectacular…one I wouldn’t have been able to see if I were staying anywhere else (seeing as my balcony was in just the right place to provide me with a view over the rest of the resort building). On another occasion, I was wandering through the United Kingdom pavilion and happened upon a troupe of World Showcase players as they were setting up to perform an impromptu version of a Christmas Carol. As if that weren’t serendipitous enough, I had intended to take some photos, but fate dealt me another hand. As the team selected members from the gathering audience to participate in the show, the gentleman they asked to play steadfastly denied to join in. So (you can see where this is going), I got pulled up on “stage” for all the world to see. Needless to say I got no pictures, but I did get to shriek like a howling cat (at least that’s how it was later described to me) and I did get a souvenir button. So the upshot of all this is to always expect the unexpected. You may plan your trip down to the last detail, and (as you should) make all of your and dining reservations well ahead of time. But be prepared for that unexpected surprise; that unexpected moment when you’ll get to experience a bit of that you hadn’t planned for. And oh yes, don’t forget to stand underneath the golden camel at the Magic Carpets of . Just sayin’… Enjoy the magic! Tim Foster

2 · Celebrations Editor Tim Foster

Associate Editors Michelle Foster • Lisa Mahan • Lou Mongello

Contributing Writers Steve Barrett J Darling Tim Devine Jamie Hecker Dawn Caitano Elizabeth Mallers

Creative Direction and Design Tim Foster Art Director Michelle Foster

Customer Service Senior Manager Lisa Mahan

Social Media/Marketing Directors Lisa Mahan

Contributing Photographers Tim Foster, Tim Devine, Mike Billick, Garry Rollins, Lisa Mahan, Jamie Hecker,

Basic subscription rate is $29.99 for six issues ($35.99 for Canada residents, $54.99 for other international residents). To subscribe online visit www.celebrationspress.com. Single issue price is $5.99. All orders must be prepaid and are payable in U.S. funds only. Celebrations (USPS 025-286) is published bimonthly in the U.S. by Celebrations Press, Inc, 308 Sundance Drive, Chester Springs, PA. 19425. Periodicals Postage Rate Paid at Chester Springs, PA and additional mail- ing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Celebrations, ATTN: Subscriptions, 308 Sundance Drive, Chester Springs, PA 19425. SUBSCRIBERS: If the postal service alerts us that your magazine is undeliverable, we have no further obligation unless we receive a corrected address within one year.

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©2017 Celebrations Press, Inc. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the express writ- ten permission of the publisher. Statements and opinions herein are those of the authors and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. Celebrations is owned and operated by Celebrations Press, Inc. and is not affiliated with, authorized or endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with , Disney Enterprises, Inc., or any of their affiliates. Walt Disney World Resort® is a registered trademark of The Walt Disney Company. The Twilight Zone® is a registered trademark of CBS, Inc. This publication makes reference to various Disney copyrighted characters, trademarks, marks, and registered marks owned by The Walt Disney Company, Disney Enterprises, Inc., and other trademark owners. The use in this book of trademarked names and images is strictly for editorial purposes, no commercial claim to their use, or suggestion of sponsorship or endorsement, is made by the authors or publishers. Those words or terms that the authors have reason to believe are trademarks are designated as such by the use of initial capitalization, where ap- propriate. However, no attempt has been made to identify or designate all words or terms to which trademark or other proprietary rights may exist. Nothing contained herein is intended to express a judgement on, or affect the validity of legal status of, any word or term as a trademark, service mark, or other proprietary mark. While every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, the passage of time will always bring changes in operating schedules, attraction openings and closings, and policies. The authors and publisher shall not be held liable for any information (valid or invalid) presented here and do not represent The Walt Disney Company.

3 · Celebrations Letters

A Masterpiece!!

Last year, in my Drawing 2 class, we were asked to make a collage out of a magazine. Since Disney is such a big part of my life, I knew what magazine I was going to choose. As much as it pained me to do so, I decided to use Celebrations as my magazine of choice, cutting it up to rearrange the images. We used the collages as reference to create a colored pencil drawing. I thought you might want to see the final product. You may recognize the images from issue #24. I was able to finish the project on time, despite my teacher’s concerns. Some areas I had to rush through, especially the briar patch area, but hopefully I’ll find time to go back and add more detail later. Thank you so much for creating such a wonderful magazine!

Mikayla Doggett Mansfield, CT

Got a question, photo, or story you’d like to share? email them to: [email protected] 4 · Celebrations 5 · Celebrations 6 · Celebrations Contributors

Kevin Carpenter works in Nick Comande is a retired Rachel Comande lives in Lori Elias credits her pas- professional soccer and Firefighter/Paramedic from Racine, WI. She loves Walt sion for Disney to long- enjoys writing from his the city of Racine, Wisconsin. Disney World, and the first time friend Tara Miller, home in Berea, Ohio. Kevin Previous work included his of her yearly visits started a Cast Member with the has been published on ESPN book Climbing for Causes. when she was only nine Disney Cruiseline. Lori is Cleveland, On , and He has more than a soft months old. a Cleveland-area middle Cleveland.com. Kevin is a spot for Walt Disney World Rachel really enjoys the school music teacher by day, life-long Disney fan with a and has visited it many time parades, shows, and freelance writer by night, particular interest in the since 1972. Nick has helped attractions, and she hopes and Disney fan 24/7. She has life and works of its founder, countless numbers of others to someday be an Imagineer. written for a number of Walt Disney. in planning trips to the music publications, and is land of the large Mouse and thrilled to be able to share has been writing WDW tip her love of all things Disney. sheets for friends since 1995, earning himself the unof- ficial title of Disnoid.

After being shown the joys Chris Smith loves Walt of a Disney vacation, Ray Disney World because it Harkness cannot imagine makes him feel like a kid being away from work if again. When he visits the it doesn’t involve a Disney Happiest Place on Earth, resort. When not touring Chris completely returns to the parks, Ray writes for his that state of mind, ready to blog Grumpy’s Hollow under explore distant jungles, ride the name Grumpwurst in pirate ships, and fly in (grumpyspace.blogspot. rockets. Chris loves to share com). the magic of Disney with his wife Alexis, and his children Koty, Samuel, Scarlett and Alice Anne. Chris works on Disneykidagain.com, a Walt Disney World Blog for Disney kids of all ages.

7 · Celebrations Disney News

show drones take to the nighttime sky in “Starbright Holi- Groundbreaking days – An Intel Collaboration.” The twice-nightly experience began November 20 on the West Side of . The first-of-its-kind light show featuring 300 Intel® Shoot- “Starbright Holidays: ing StarTM show drones invites guests to gaze skyward and make a special wish this holiday season. The synchronized An Intel Collaboration” choreography of the new Intel Shooting Star drones is set to a specially orchestrated arrangement of classic holiday music. In the nostalgic and stirring medley, Disney Springs Gives New Meaning to guests can listen for a few bars of classic Disney melodies. “We are thrilled to share an experience as innovative and “Wishing Upon a Star” unique as Disney Springs,” said Keith Bradford, Vice Presi- dent of Disney Springs. “‘Starbright Holidays’ is a wonderful his holiday season, guests at Disney Springs – the shop- surprise and delight moment for guests as they enjoy an Tping, dining and entertainment district of Walt Disney evening of world-class shopping, dining and entertainment World Resort – will get a chance to see Disney and Intel ex- here at Disney Springs.” ploring remarkable new technology as hundreds of lighted Added Jon Snoddy, Studio Executive with Walt Disney

8 · Celebrations Imagineering R&D, “At Disney, we are always looking for in- light shows,” said Senior and General Manager novative ways to tell stories and create unexpected experi- of Intel’s New Technology Group, Josh Walden. “Together, we ences. We’re excited to invite guests to watch as we explore worked to tackle the new frontier of entertainment, pictur- the possibilities of this remarkable new technology.” ing the sky as our canvas, and flying lights as ink.” “Starbright Holidays – An Intel Collaboration” marks the “Starbright Holidays – An Intel Collaboration” will run first time in the United States 300 show drones have flown through January 8, with shows at 7:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., at one time. At 280g, the Intel Shooting Star drone weighs and joins other holiday enhancements at Disney Springs, in- less than a volleyball, and features built-in LED lights that cluding a brand-new Christmas Tree Trail, special seasonal can create more than four billion color combinations. entertainment, meet and greets with Santa, and festive de- “We are excited to work with to cor throughout all four neighborhoods – Town Center, The bring a fresh and innovative approach to its world-renowned Landing, West Side and Marketplace.

Photos ©Disney 9 · Celebrations Disney News

tion came to Pandora. Now that they are long gone, nature Disney Parks Chairman Bob is breaking down evidence of their presence. This bridge will soon serve as an entry into the base camp of Alpha Cen- Chapek Announces Pandora tauri Expeditions, the eco-tour group that will host explor- ers on their Pandora adventure. “I think the thing I’m most excited about right now to ex- – The World of perience would be everything in Pandora.” Chapek said. “From the place-making to the two extraordinary attractions that Coming 2017 will be in the land – both the Na’vi River Journey as well as Avatar Flight of Passage, these promise to set new high-wa- ob Chapek, Chairman, Disney Parks and Resorts, recent- termarks for our experiential magic we give our guests.” Bly gave a look into the future of the newest addition to Chapek shared details of the two, new signature attrac- the Walt Disney World Resort, unveiling some exciting new tions of Avatar Flight of Passage, where guests will fly over updates coming soon to Disney’s Animal Kingdom expan- the jungles of Pandora on a Mountain Banshee and Na’vi sion – Pandora – The World of Avatar. River Journey, a family-friendly boat ride through the biolu- As part of Chapek’s conversation with host Jeffrey minescent forests. He also gave a first look at the new Satu’li Epstein, he revealed the new entry bridge to Pandora – The Canteen, which is the main dining establishment for Pan- World of Avatar. According to the storyline developed by dora, featuring Na’vi art and cultural items; Windtraders, Walt Disney Imagineering and Lightstorm Entertainment, where travelers can purchase Na’vi cultural items, toys, sci- this bridge was built during a time when a destructive com- ence kits, and more; and the Pongu Pongu, a drink location pany called the RDA – Resources Development Administra- with a design that is as eclectic as its Expat owner.

10 · Celebrations Coming in summer of 2017, Pandora – The World of Avatar Chapek gave the sneak peek at the updates to an enthu- will complete the transformation of Disney’s Animal - siastic crowd of Disney fans at the “Destination D: Amazing dom. Disney in collaboration with filmmaker James Cam- Adventures” conference for D23, the official fan club for The eron and Lightstorm Entertainment is bringing to life the Walt Disney Company. The “Destination D” Convention, held mythical world of Pandora, inspired by Cameron’s AVATAR, this year at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, also features a at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. The awe-inspiring panel by the creative team behind Pandora – The World of land of floating mountains, bioluminescent rainforests and Avatar including filmmaker , producer Jon soaring Banshees will give guests a transformational expe- Landau and , Creative Director for Disney’s Animal rience they will never forget. Kingdom from Walt Disney Imagineering.

by incredible visions, they’ll watch the creative process live. Epcot International Festival In the inaugural year of the Epcot International Festival of the Arts, a collaboration with Disney Theatrical will bring an of the Arts Launches exciting new showcase of favorite music and Broadway tal- ent to the America Gardens Theatre stage. Over the six weekends of the festival, park Guests will en- January 13 – Febuary 20 joy different pairings of phenomenal Broadway talent in concert, performing songs from some of Disney on Broad- ombining visual, culinary and performing arts from way’s award-winning shows, including , News- Caround the world, the first-ever Epcot International ies, and Aladdin, to name a few. Festival of the Arts will create a global masterpiece for six New Food Studios will showcase culinary creations so deli- inspired weekends. Held Fridays through Mondays starting cious and intricate, guests may not know if the menus are Jan. 13 – Feb. 20, 2017, the Festival will feature new art each for admiring or eating. Disney chefs will surely encourage week, making each weekend original. guests it’s the latter. Here’s a sample of what’s in store: And there’s more: hands-on experiences for the whole From the pieces of Disney historical artist and family, favorite Disney characters channeling their favorite Herb Ryman art of Epcot, to current Disney artists Joe Ka- artists, and seminars. It’s a colorful, whimsical celebration of minski and Costa Alavezos, guests won’t only be surrounded a new artful Epcot.

Photos ©Disney 11 · Celebrations Calendar of Events Half Marathon Weekend February 23 - February 26, 2017 Epcot This February, princes and princesses of all ages are invited to come together for the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend presented by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Join Disney Princesses in a celebration of inspirational women around the globe at this unforgettable event featuring a variety of races. Put your commitment, perse- verance and determination to the test as you walk, jog or sprint around Walt Disney World Resort. Enjoy magical surprises along the course as well as a fun-filled, post-event party to celebrate your dream fulfilled. And take home an exclusive Finisher Medal to commemorate the occasion! Epcot® International Flower & Garden Festival March 1 - May 29, 2017 Star Wars™ Half Marathon - The Dark Side Epcot April 20 - April 23, 2017 Welcome the upcoming spring season by treating your Epcot senses to a harvest of vibrant and captivating experiences! Use the Force to push through your own resistance and Blossoming once again from March 1 to May 29, 2017, the achieve a stellar personal breakthrough. Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is a fun-filled On Sunday, Star Wars’ most legendary villain—Darth Vader destination for Guests of every age—and the perfect place himself—will reign over the first-ever Star Wars Half Mara- for nearly every member of the family to dig up their sense thon – The Dark Side at the Walt Disney World® Resort. Will of curiosity and discovery. Highlights may include: you accept the challenge? • Outdoor kitchens offering delectable bites and libations Face the Galactic Empire’s Sith Lord—and your own dark • Dozens of world-renowned, Disney-themed topiaries fears—at 5:00 AM on the fields of Epcot. Feel the Force, and • Breathtaking garden spaces and wildlife habitats the enchantment of Disney, as you encounter powerful • Inspirational exhibits, seminars and demonstrations surprises, on-course entertainment—and a magical finale • An outdoor concert series featuring fan-favorite bands fit for a Naboo queen. • And much, much more It’s all part of a weekend of fantastic races and intergalac- With so much to see and do, you can returnl again and tic fun for Star Wars fans of all ages—at Walt Disney World again—and uncover something new each and every time! Resort!

12 · Celebrations Photo ©Disney 13 · Celebrations

elcome to MouseViews, a special section of WCelebrations Magazine where you’ll get an insider’s peek at the Walt Disney World Resort. In every issue we’ll bring you a treasure trove of tips, secrets, magical moments, special insights, little known facts and a whole lot more! Whether it’s a different look at a familiar attraction, a hidden secret waiting to be discovered, or a helpful piece of advice for your upcoming trip, you’re sure to find lots of fun-filled information inside.

So put on your Mickey ears, set your imagination free, and get ready to discover all of those things that make Walt Disney World the most magical place on Earth.

Ready? Then here we go...!

15 · Celebrations Play Ball! he date was October 23, 1993. The Phillies and the Blue Jays Twere locked in a titanic battle of wills in the World Series, with Toronto trying to repeat as champions while the oft beleaguered Phillies were trying to win their first title in well over a decade. It was game six of the best of seven series, and the Phillies were mounting one of the greatest comebacks in history. With two out in the ninth inning and clinging to a one run lead, Philadelphia pitcher Mitch Williams struck out Joe Carter with his trademark fastball to propel the Phillies to game seven, where they would eventually win the championship… Well, that’s how the fans in Philadelphia, myself included, would like to remember it. But the outcome was very different, and it has a Disney connection…of sorts. by Tim Foster This memorable sports moment is immortalized in, of all places, Epcot…specifi- cally in the Canada pavilion. Wait, shouldn’t you rightly find a tribute to America’s pastime in the American Adventure? Well, baseball does make in appearance in the pavilion’s attraction (which we’ll get back to later on), but this particular moment in baseball history can be seen in O’ Canada, the Circle-Vision 360° movie that takes Guests on a tour of this beautiful and majestic country. Host Martin Short eventu- ally shows you the sporting side of Canada, highlighted by the Calgary Stampede ro- deo. But tucked away in the montage is a short clip that gnaws away at the heart of every Phillies fan. For the fateful pitch described earlier was not a strike, but rather a towering home run slammed by Joe Carter that triumphantly won the World Se- ries for Toronto, and for Canada as a nation. But even though a visit to the Canada pavilion may bring up a painful memory for Philadelphia sports fans (and yes, I can hear all of you New York fans laughing as I type this), the film itself still provides a breathtaking and spectacular tour of this proud nation, and is an attraction not to be missed. Tim Foster is the creator of As far as baseball is concerned, you might expect that this grand All-American Celebrations magazine and tradition would be represented throughout Walt Disney World, in keeping with the author of the Guide to the Magic book series, which Walt Disney’s love of America as depicted in such attractions as the Carousel of includes the Guide to the Magic Progress and . And you would be correct! However, many of for Kids and the Deluxe Guide to these tributes (including the Blue Jays World Series triumph) are to be found in the the Magic Autograph & Sticker places you might least expect. Book. Tim is also the creator of the www.celebrationspress.com Baseball in Japan website. Next to the United States, one of the most popular places for baseball is Japan. First introduced to Japan in 1872 (by comparison, the American League in the U.S. be- gan play in 1876), baseball is one of Japan’s most popular sports. In fact, it’s so popular that the National Tourism Organization of Japan states that “Baseball is so popular in Japan that many fans are surprised to hear that Americans also consider it their ‘national sport.’ “ However, if you’ve recently visited the Japan pavilion in World Showcase, you may be wondering where this baseball exhibit is. Well, save for the possible souvenir you may find in the Mitsukoshi Department Store, the exhibit I’m referring to is no longer there. But once upon a time, you could wander back to the Bijutsu-kan Gal- lery and see an exhibit called Diamond Warriors: Traditions and Japanese Baseball. While the gallery has since hosted exhibits showcasing everything from tin toys

16 · Celebrations to the origins of famous anime characters, this particular point the crowd settles in for the fateful third pitch, ready exhibit opened in 2001 and ran through 2003. The gallery to scream and cheer as Casey belts one out of the park and featured a collection of autographed , murals, and single handedly wins the game. But as the final stanza of memorabilia, providing Guests with a visual history of the the poem goes: 100-plus years of Japanese baseball. Highlights of the display Oh, somewhere in this favored land the sun is shining bright; included a 1964 handmade bat used by Sadaharu Oh (who the band is playing somewhere, and somewhere hearts are light, hit 868 home runs in his career, which is the world lifetime and somewhere men are laughing, and somewhere children shout; home run record), as well as a 1950 Yomiuri Giants uniform but there is no joy in Mudville — mighty Casey has struck out. from the first American to play professional baseball in Ja- Casey is now immortalized in the Main Street eatery, pan after World War II. with a statue of him right outside the entrance. Inside the But even though the Diamond Warriors exhibit is gone, restaurant, you can still see the scoreboard that recorded you can still see a tribute to baseball in World Showcase, the game for posterity, culminating in a big fat “0” in the namely at the American Adventure. During the “Golden ninth inning for Mudville. Dream” film montage toward the end of the show, notable Pictures of Casey and other mementos hang on the wall, figures from American history flash onto the screen, ev- and the décor of the restaurant is reminiscent of the turn of eryone from Albert Einstein and Walter Cronkite to John the century décor that was all the rage when the infamous Kennedy and Walt Disney himself. But early on in the film, game took place. At one point the eatery featured a set of one of the most historic and proudest moments in baseball bleachers, where Guests could sit and watch cartoons on history (and in fact, American history in general) is show- a large screen on the wall. (The bleachers have since been cased with a clip of Jackie Robinson sliding into home plate. removed to make way for more seating). Guests could enjoy Robinson was of course the first African American to play an old-fashioned hot dog and watch starring in the in in the modern era, and was the classic short, How to Play Baseball (1942). The cartoon takes a first pro athlete in any sport to have his number, 42, retired humorous look at the game of baseball, with Goofy (trying) throughout the entire league. A proud moment indeed! to explain the rules and terminology of the game.

Casey at the Bat Play Ball! On a more whimsical note, a nod to America’s favorite Many other references to baseball can be found through- pastime can be found right on Main Street U.S.A. at Casey’s out Walt Disney World, including the All-Star Sports Resort, Corner. The counter service eatery (which specializes in hot which features a section called Homerun Hotel, as well as dogs of course!) was originally called Refreshment Corner, a baseball-themed pool called the Grand-Slam Pool (which but was renamed Casey’s Corner in 1995, a nod to the Casey is currently going though a major refurbishment). This at the Bat animated short from (1946). part of the resort includes many larger-than-life baseball Though the film was based on a humorous poem that was elements, including giant bats, baseballs, scoreboards, and set in 1888, Disney’s version was updated a bit and set in 1902. even giant cups of Coca-Cola! It was produced at the request of Samuel Goldwyn, and was Disney’s EPSN Wide World of Sports plays host to several originally shown as the opening short for the 1942 film, The baseball events throughout the year, including the Disney Pride of the Yankees. New Year’s Baseball Classic and the Disney Baseball Tourna- Apart from the updated time frame, the script (narrated ment. The complex has also played host to Major League by Jerry Colonna, best known as one of Bob Hope’s funniest Baseball’s , who hold their annual spring sidekicks) remained faithful to the original story. The short training at the Wide World of Sports Champion Stadium, would later be released on its own in 1954. a state of the art facility that features over 9,500 seats and The film told the tale of a baseball team from the town of four luxury sky boxes. Mudville. The home team is down by two runs in the final inning with two outs, but the fans are filled with hope as Whether you’re an avid fan or a casual observer (or yes, the mighty Casey steps to the plate. Poised to win the game even a perpetually downtrodden Phillies fan touring World with a towering home run, the over-confident Casey lets Showcase), you’ll find plenty of homages to one of America’s the first two strikes go past, sneering all the while. At this greatest treasures throughout Walt Disney World.

17 · Celebrations Taking Photos in Liberty Square iberty Square may make up a fairly small portion of the , but it’s Lstill home to quite a few photographic opportunities. Although there are fewer wide, sweeping views of the area, as compared to other lands in Magic Kingdom, there are loads of small details and interesting areas to keep you quite busy while taking photos. Of course, most discussions about photography in Liberty Square begin with the famous Haunted Mansion. There are several outstanding views of the Mansion from across the Rivers of America, to a wide-angle view inside the queue. In my opinion, the best view of the Haunted Mansion facade is from the top deck of the Liberty Belle just as the Liberty Belle crosses in front of the Haunted Mansion. For a by Tim Devine brief moment, you can be perfectly aligned with the front door to Master Gracey’s abode, and it makes for a great photographic opportunity. The Haunted Mansion itself presents great photo opportunities not only for those with high-end cameras, but for those without as well. Although those with- out high-end gear will not be able to get any high-quality shots on-ride (the best you can hope for is a blurry, noisy, shot of objects such as Madame Leota’s crystal ball), there are plenty of things to see and photograph throughout the queue – especially inside of the cemetery. I have always viewed the inside of the Haunted Mansion as a torture-test for my new equipment, particularly its low-light and autofocus capa- bilities. Generally speaking, if your camera can get a decent exposure at around 1/100 second while on-ride, you will able to get a usable photo – but that requires a good camera body with a fast lens…and even then there are no guarantees. This is one area where no self-respecting DSLR owner should ever be found without a 50mm Tim Devine is an avid photographer f/1.8 lens. These lenses are a staple for any brand of camera system and are often and the owner and webmaster of found for under $200, making you almost negligent for NOT having one! With that www.themagicinpixels.com, a website being said, 50mm is often not quite wide enough to capture most scenes in their created for and dedicated to fellow Disney Photography Enthusiasts. In entirety, nor does it offer enough telephoto capability to zoom in tightly on show addition to a large gallery of photos elements. However it is a great compromise of a fast lens, lightweight, and low cost. you can browse, you’ll also find tips, On-board the Liberty Belle, you can decide whether or not you want to capture articles and equipment reviews wide-angle views, or put on a longer lens for some nice close-ups of show scenes. to help you create magical photo This is where my Sigma 50-500 OSS lens (affectionately known among my friends as memories of your Walt Disney World “The Sigmonster”) really shines! At 50mm from the Liberty Belle, I can capture fairly Resort vacation. Also, be sure to check wide-angle views of and Big Thunder Mountain, but still have a www.themagicinpixels.com for ton of zoom to get extremely close to elements such as Beacon Joe and his dog or information on Pixelmania!, the Indian Village around the back corner of the Rivers of America. The Sigmonster an annual festival of Disney is a big, heavy lens and it is not for the faint of heart to carry around all day, but it photography, friends, and fun in Walt has a huge range and delivers nice, sharp photos – and it’s stabilized. Disney World . When taking photos aboard the Liberty Belle, I prefer to stand on the bottom deck, as it puts you closer to the same level as the ground show elements, rather than shooting down on them from a higher perspective. Of course, this is a person- al artistic choice but I like the lower view. The exception, as previously mentioned, is being at eye level with the front door to the Haunted Mansion, which requires you to be on the top deck. Finally, I would like to mention the new Muppets Present: Great Moments in American History show that is presented outside of the Hall of Presidents. This

18 · Celebrations humorous show tells several tales of American history, characters while eliminating parts of the building that you complete with the bad puns and slapstick humor that might find distracting. Again, this is a personal preference, you would expect from . This show is another but I like to get in as close as I can for this show. candidate for a good telephoto lens, despite the fact that Hopefully this column gave you some pointers and tips the characters are not that far from you. Having a good about taking photos around Liberty Square. As always, telephoto lens allows you to focus in nice and tight on the make sure you practice, and take lots of pictures!

Photo ©Tim Devine 19 · Celebrations Hidden Mickeys in The American Adventure and The Hall of Presidents s we go to press, it’s Election Season in the U.S., so I thought I’d include Hidden AImages from the above two attractions to honor the occasion.

1. At the beginning of The American Adventure story in World Showcase, an upside- down classic Mickey appears on the rock behind (and to your right of) a kneel- ing female pilgrim. This image is difficult to photograph, but it seems convincing enough when watching the film. 2. Early in the film, a classic Mickey lock hangs on the right side of a stockade in a by Steve Barrett scene of the American Revolution time period. 3. In the scene with the old gas station, a classic Mickey is formed by three red apples at the upper left of a pile of apples inside a crate. (These apples seem to move around at times). 4. Out in the rotunda lobby, on the first floor, a classic Mickey made of roses deco- rates a lady’s hat in a painting on the far left wall (as you enter). Look for the paint- ing in which a man is speaking to a crowd in front of a hardware store. The lady with the rose-trimmed hat is at the lower middle of the painting, and the Hidden Mickey is on the right side of her hat. 5. A picture on a first-floor wall at the right rear of the rotunda shows workers build- ing a skyscraper. The tops of two vertical beams behind the workers sport classic Mickey holes. Steve Barrett is the author of the 6. On the rear wall of the rotunda, first and second floors, large bronze eagle reliefs Hidden Mickeys Guide Book Series have classic Mickeys in the corners. (Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and the Disney Cruise Ships) available in 7. A red, white, and blue banner is on the railing outside over the entrance to the the Disney Parks and in book stores, rotunda, and a small, faint classic Mickey hides on the banner. It’s in the middle of Amazon, and on Kindle and other the white star next to the “A” in “Adventure.” (One “ear” is still black.) downloadable formats. The WDW and Disneyland Hidden 8. On a wall painting in the waiting room for The Hall of Presidents show in Liberty Mickeys Guide books are also offered Square, a tiny classic Mickey is at the end of the object holds as iPhone and Android apps. Steve in his left hand. and his wife Vickie (hiddenmickeygal) are the webmasters of 9. In Liberty Square, outside The Hall of Presidents and near the landing for the Lib- www.HiddenMickeyGuy.com, and erty Square Riverboat, padlocks on the stocks resemble classic Hidden Mickeys are on @hiddenmickeyguy (even though the “ears” are a bit small). Notice the resemblance of this lock and the and Facebook as Hidden Mickey Guy stockade lock from The American Adventure film. Disney’s Hidden Mickeys Hunter. 10. Check out the new Muppets Show in Liberty Square! They represent our found- ing fathers and recount the story of the signing of the Declaration of Indepen- dence. In this photo, from left to right, are Thomas Jefferson (Kermit the Frog), (Fozzie Bear), and John Adams (The Great Gonzo).

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21 · Celebrations n the vast history of the Walt Disney Company, there have been countless men Iand women who have made lasting contributions to , live action films, and theme parks. Many are artists within a specific discipline. However, only a handful of Disney veterans have been able to rise above the rest and make an indel- ible mark on the cultural landscape. In this regard, Disney Legend John Hench and his transcendent work resonates to this day with Disney fans, young and old alike. His masterful understanding of color and design helped create Disney theme parks that contributed to the Disney concept of ‘architecture of reassurance,’ that Disney- land and Walt Disney World represent a curated and comforting slice of Americana. by Jamie Hecker John Hench was, in every sense of the word, Disney’s renaissance man. Hench was born in in Cedar Rapids, Iowa in 1908, but grew up in southern Cali- fornia, where he attended art school at the School of Fine Arts. He fur- ther studied at the acclaimed Chouinard Institute, where so many other Disney animators honed their skills. Hench was particularly influenced by painter Stan- ton MacDonald-Wright, who “helped me to enlarge my understanding of color, to see it as a dynamic element,” Hench later recalled. At the young age of twenty-one, he joined Disney in 1939 when The Walt Disney Studios was operating at its Hyperion studio location. The Disney studio, building on the over- whelming success of and the , was ramping up its ambitions in feature animation. Hench was part of an ongoing hir- Jamie Hecker has been a lifelong ing increase to directly address this fan of Disney, and is passing on his love to his sons. He and his family goal. His first project was working as visit Orlando annually and always a sketch artist on , notably look forward to their next trip. contributing the underwater effects When not in Orlando, he resides on the ‘Arabian Dance’ sequence. He sharpened his artistic and animation skills as in northern Virginia with his a background painter on and a layout designer for . Al- beautiful wife Suzanne, two boys though he never did character animation, his contributions were perhaps more im- and four cats. You can read more about his portant, setting the overall color and style for the films, notablyPeter Pan. As Disney “hidden Disney” musings at moved into live-action films, Hench shifted as well, and earned himself an Oscar for myhiddendisney.blogspot.com/ his work on the hydraulically powered squid from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.

From the Films to the Parks Walt Disney had greater plans for Hench and personally directed him to work on the next great project – Disneyland. Hench joined a small cadre of designers at WED, the precursor to Imagineering. Hench, when laying out the original Tomor- rowland, discovered that the process of designing theme parks was his true calling. As Disneyland grew and changed over the years, so too did Hench’s design work. Square, added in 1966, is a master display of the emotional impact that

22 · Celebrations a themed space can convey. eluded them. At Imagineering, however, no idea is ever truly Hench further enhanced his story, color, and design skills put aside, and was finally opened in 1975 to when WED developed four attractions for the 1964-65 New critical acclaim. Hench recalled, “It took us ten years before York World’s Fair. To this day, Walt Disney’s Carousel of Prog- we found the technology that would allow such a ride. And ress still turns, showcasing Hench’s work for new genera- during these ten years, I had a model that I kept, waiting for tions of Disney fans. the technology we needed.” With its “blessing of size,” WED next set its sight on the Hench further cemented his status as a theme park de- Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. Beyond the park, signer with his work on Epcot and then . there was the overall property to be developed. Hench made He helped finalize the iconic appearance of Epcot’s Space- a critical decision that would enhance the overall property. ship Earth, and solved the engineering dilemma of how Canals were needed to help mitigate the swampiness of the to create a fully formed sphere. The six support legs hold property. Rather than cut utilitarian-like straight channels, a table, with a quarter of the sphere resting below it, and Hench successfully argued that the canals should be organ- three-quarters of it resting above. ic, curving around the contour of the land and of various To give an example of Hench’s innate understanding of widths, much like how a stream, creek or river naturally color, consider that he bragged about having fifty-three appears. shades of white in his Hench laid out the palette. His under- master plan for the Mag- standing of the nature ic Kingdom, and with of white was critical all Imagineers under his over Epcot, and in par- direction, they followed ticular, the American his credo for theme park Adventure show build- design: “When we design ing. This stately colo- any area of a Disney park, nial-style building uses we transform a space four colors of brick, into a story place. Ev- all authentic to the ery element must work era. White may seem a together to create an natural accent color to identity that supports choose, but Hench ap- the story of that place plied his knowledge of – structures, entrances color theory masterful- and exits, walkways, landscaping, water elements, and ly on this process. He noted, “I selected three different shades modes of transportation. Every element must in its form of white to adjust the color of the lavish trim for exposure and color engage the guests’ imagination and appeal to to natural light: the brightest white for the first floor trim, their emotions.” Not only was the design of the park critical, to correct for shadows, a slightly darker off-white shade for but the layers and colors within needed to match the scene. the second floor, and the darkest shade for the clock tower Hench elaborated, “We must always remember that color is and bell towers, to equalize the effect of unfiltered sunlight. a language to which people respond, both consciously and Manipulating the shades of white in this way gave the illu- unconsciously. They know when colors do not seem right sion of a consistent trim accent color.” together, but they may not know why. It is the Imagineer’s All told, Hench enjoyed a sixty-five year career at Disney. job to understand how colors work together visually and He may have slowed down toward the end, but he never for- why they can make guests feel better.” mally retired. He was named a Disney Legend in 1990, and One of the most iconic sites at the Magic Kingdom is continued to do critical theme park design work after that, Space Mountain, with its conical appearance and tower- with meaningful contributions to Disney’s California Ad- ing spires that reach for the stars. Hench worked with Walt venture and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. himself in the mid 1960s to design the concept for the at- He passed away on February 5, 2004 at the age of 95 while traction, then called Space Port, but the ride technology still working full-time for Imagineering.

23 · Celebrations Celebrate Oktoberfest All Year ‘Round at the Biergarten he Biergarten restaurant in Epcot’s Germany pavilion offers up a touch of fun Tand entertainment. Once inside, you will be transported to a beautiful Bavar- ian village in the midst of the Oktoberfest celebration. What exactly is Oktober- fest? It all began on October 17, 1810, when Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria married Princess Therese of Sachsen-Hildburghausen. They celebrated in Munich with one of the largest parties the village had ever seen, which lasted for a total of 16 days. Thus began the Oktoberfest tradition. When you dine at the Biergarten, you’ll be immersed into a grand Oktoberfest celebration, enjoying classic German food in By Dawn Caitano an all-you-can-eat buffet, all while listening to a live band playing traditional polka tunes. The Biergarten serves lunch and dinner daily, featuring delicious German cuisine. The restaurant is set in the back of the Germany pavilion, just behind the foun- tain featuring the statue of St. George slaying a dragon. This is a great spot to stop and take that family photo with the fountain in the background to capture the ex- perience. A grey cobblestone pathway leads you into the beautiful German village, showcasing a medieval castle set in the background along with German influenced buildings on each side of the village. On the hour, make sure to watch the clock tow- er. As the bells chime you’ll see two Hummel figurines pop out. Upon entering the Biergarten, picture yourself entering a beautiful Bavarian Ger- man village, where you’ll find dimly lit street lamps along with a moonlit backdrop. Each table can seat up to eight people community style. This means that if your party is smaller than eight, you may be seated with other Guests and share a table (but that’s always a great way to make new friends!). The seating is also tiered so you can see the band no matter where you’re sitting. With all of the upbeat music and dancing, things can get a bit noisy, so if you’re looking for a quiet dining experience this might not be your first choice. But if you’re in the mood for some fun, you’re in Dawn creates lasting memories by planning your customized vacations the perfect spot, so get out on the dance floor and embrace the fun and excitement all over the world. Not only does she of Oktoberfest. find the BEST accommodations with A traditional oompah band plays classic polka music, using different instru- the BEST value, but she will fill in all ments like longhorns and bells throughout the show. The band is set up on a raised the blanks for you, all at no cost to stage and typically plays a 25-minute set every hour. As the band is playing they will you. Traveling is her passion! Passing encourage the patrons to join in on the fun. If dancing is not for you, you can always that magic on to your family is what fuels that passion! So call Dawn today do a little people watching. to start your next Adventure. Go to celebrationspress.com/plan-trip/, Hearty Fare for a free quote. When it comes time to eat, you’ll get to enjoy a wonderful array of tasty German dishes. Be sure to come with a hearty appetite, as the food is served buffet style and you can dine to your heart’s content. The cold offerings include a variety of salads, including potato, pasta, tomato, cabbage, sausage, and mixed greens. Entrees include pork schnitzel, beef roulade, sauerbraten, and German meatloaf. You’ll also find roast- ed chicken along with a number of seafood selections. A favorite dessert is the apple strudel, but you can also try the peach almond cake, another traditional favorite.

24 · Celebrations If you love caramel, you can even hop over to the Kara- greenery throughout the village is made up of live trees and mell-Küche shop for some dessert. Here you can find lots of shrubbery. This is a great place to stop with the kids and caramel candy, as well as the only working Werther’s kitch- unwind for a few minutes before or after dining at the Bier- en in the world. So don’t forget to stop in and get something garten. You can walk over a raised walkway bridge to get a tasty to satisfy your sweet tooth. full view of all of the action, and if you look closely you may In keeping with the traditional Oktoberfest celebration, even spot a Hidden Mickey or two! you’ll have many options to choose from when it comes to ordering beer and wine at the Biergarten. They offer beer The Biergarten is a great choice for anyone looking for a and wine flights so you can get a sampling of what they fun-filled dining experience. Kids really enjoy watching the have to offer. Beer is served in ½ liters or full liters, and the band and seeing all of the different instruments that they beer flight has four pours of beer at 5 oz each for $15.00. The play. The food is hearty and offers up a wide variety of selec- white wine flight has three pours of 2 oz each for $13.00. This tions. Disney dining reservations are highly recommended. is a great way to find your favorite so that you can then pair They can be made 180 days in advance through your My it with your meal. Disney Experience account or by calling 407-WDW-DINE. A If you enjoy collecting beer steins, you’ll find a beautiful credit card is needed to book your reservation, though it selection in the nearby shops. You can also take a moment won’t be charged right away. (However, keep in mind that to stroll through the miniature railroad to the right of the there will be a $10/person fee if you decide to cancel your main pavilion. Here you will see a beautiful miniature Ba- reservation within 24 hours of your reserved time.) Tables varian village filled with all sorts of details (including Christ- In Wonderland is also accepted. If you are using the Disney mas decorations around the holidays). There are three dif- Dining plan, the Biergarten is (1) table service entitlement ferent train loops, each with a different colored train. The on the plan.

Photo © Tim Foster 25 · Celebrations FastPass+ Tips and Tricks f you’re planning on going to Walt Disney World, getting your FastPasses is part Iof the fun…and a great way to make sure that you’ll get to see all of your favorite attractions with little or no wait. Years ago, getting a FastPass meant going to that particular attraction and getting a FastPass ticket (yes, an actual paper one!). But times have changed, and getting FastPasses for yourself and your family is now a lot easier (or a bit more complicated, depending on your computer expertise…but don’t worry, we’ll walk you through it!). By Elizabeth Mallers One of the first things you’ll want to do when planning your trip is to create a My Disney Experience account for yourself. You can do this on your computer or mobile device. If you’re staying on Walt Disney World property, you’ll be able to customize your MagicBands, link your reservations and park tickets, and best of all, set up your FastPasses 60 days ahead of your check in date. Not staying on Disney property? Don’t fret, you can still make your FastPass reservations 30 days in advance. Here’s a great tip: be sure to download the My Disney Experience app on your smartphone. This will let you easily check your FastPasses so you can plan your day accordingly. (Sometimes it’s easy to get all those days and times mixed up!). It will also give you the flexibility to make changes during your vacation, book dining res- ervations, check attraction wait times, find park hours, and find out about special events. You can book up to three FastPasses per day in advance, but once you’ve used all three, you can add another one via the My Disney Experience App or in the park at one of the My Disney Experience Kiosks. Here’s another useful tip: get to the parks right when they open and try to get in as many attractions as you can. Once the crowds start to arrive, you can then use your FastPasses that you’ve set up for mid-day or early afternoon. When they’re used up, go ahead get a fourth! (Keep in mind though that the most popular attractions, Elizabeth fell in love with Disney like Ever After, run out of FastPasses very early, often months in advance, so World as a little girl and has contin- ued to visit again and again. She has be sure to get all of those well ahead of time. Save your “same day” FastPasses for less experience traveling to Disney with crowded attractions.) a child with severe food allergies. You may be tempted to use your FastPasses for a show, but that’s typically not Elizabeth is an agent with Destina- necessary. Guests can usually line up 15 minutes before a show, and if you don’t get tions to Explore, an Authorized Dis- in to that particular performance, you’ll only have to wait until the next show. Also, ney Vacation Planner. She is ready don’t forget that you can meet characters at the many restaurants that offer char- to help you plan a magical Disney vacation, all at no cost to you! Go to acter dining, so you don’t necessarily have to use a FastPass for meet and greet at- celebrationspress.com/plan-trip/, tractions. (However, character dining experiences are very popular, so you’ll want to for a free quote. make those reservations well ahead of time.) If you are traveling with additional Guests, even if they’re staying at another re- sort, don’t worry. You can link your reservations in your My Disney Experience and select FastPasses for the entire group at the same time. This makes planning for a larger party easy! There should be some thought and purpose when selecting your FastPasses. There are some attractions that are very popular and definitely require a FastPass, while other attractions that offer them don’t really need one. Here is a rundown on the ins and outs of FastPasses for each of the four theme parks at Walt Disney World.

26 · Celebrations Disney’s Hollywood Studios fers so many wonderful viewing vantage points that you Disney’s Hollywood Studios uses a tiered system for its really don’t need to get a FastPass for it. (The courtyard in FastPasses, which means they have four attractions that Japan is an especially good place to enjoy the show.) are Tier 1 (these are the headliner attractions), and from that group you can select one. The other two FastPasses can Disney’s Animal Kingdom be selected from the Tier 2 attractions. As you may expect, This park doesn’t have a tiered system, so you don’t have the Tier 1 attractions are the most popular, and they include to worry about choosing between the most popular attrac- Beauty and the Beast - Live on Stage, , tions. and are by the Fantasmic!, the Rock ‘n’ Starring Aerosmith, far the most popular attractions, so you’ll want to put those and Midway Mania! (Toy Story is by far the most on your list (unless you don’t think you can handle the fear- popular attraction at the park, and one of the most popular some encounter with the Yeti!). If you can, try to set your in all of Walt Disney World, so that most likely will be the one Kilimanjaro FastPass time for the morning, because it is you’ll want to select). cooler and you’ll usually see more animal activity. If you have your heart set on the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, don’t worry. That attraction offers a single rider line that Magic Kingdom typically moves much faster than the stand by line (though This park has the most FastPass attractions, and be- be aware you won’t be sitting next to members of your cause of this, the choices may seem overwhelming. As you party). would expect, the attractions that have the longest lines are the thrill rides (Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Splash Epcot Mountain, Space Mountain, and the “not quite so wild but Epcot also has the two tier system, with your Tier 1 choices still popular” ), as well as some be- being IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, , loved Disney classics like ’s Flight and the Jungle Soarin’ Around the World, and . Frozen Ever After Cruise. Fortunately, most of the Magic Kingdom attractions and Soarin’ are by far the most popular attractions (stand now have interactive queues, including Peter Pan’s Flight, by wait times for both frequently approach or even pass the Haunted Mansion, The Many Adventures of Winnie two hours). Frozen Ever After should be your first choice, the Pooh, and the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train among others. but be forewarned it can be difficult to get. You’ll want to These queues offer lots of fun diversions, and greatly help try and get that FastPass as soon as your 60 (or 30) day win- to lessen the boredom of waiting in line. dow opens. Test Track also offers a single rider line, so if you Hopefully, these FastPass tips and tricks will help you and don’t mind riding alone you don’t need to make that a Fast- your family get the most out of your next Disney vacation. Pass priority. (Occasionally you can get in the single rider Plan carefully, but don’t forget to plan the most important line and walk right on to the attraction!) IllumiNations of- thing, to have fun!

Photo © Disney 27 · Celebrations Adventuring Around the World alt Disney World vacations undoubtedly are centered on the four theme Wparks, the water parks, and even the resorts. For Guests looking for an ad- ditional experience for their Disney vacation, the shops, restaurants, and enter- tainment at Disney Springs offer a welcome respite from the parks. Historians of Walt Disney World will recall that this corner of the property has been in service since 1975, when it was originally named the Lake Shopping Village. A few years later it was rebranded as Walt Disney World Village. The shopping district discovered its more contemporary notion when it was updated to Downtown Dis- By Jamie Hecker ney, complete with a West Side expansion. The nightly highlights were focused on the adult-centric Pleasure Island that featured high-energy dance clubs, an improv comedy club, and the amazingly original and thoroughly entertaining Adventur- ers Club. This nightclub, whose backstory was set in the year 1937, featured a rogue band of characters who all fancied themselves world travelers and explorers. Dif- ferent rooms in the allowed Guests to see all the various artifacts from around the globe up close, and to hear their adventures firsthand in loosely scripted shows, or more improvised encounters with Guests in the main room. The interaction between the Guests and the performers ensured that no two evenings would be alike. The Adventurers Club was the creation of a handful of wildly creative Imagi- neers, including Joe Rohde, Craig McNair Wilson, Roger Cox, and Alec Scribner. Ro- hde is most famous for leading the team that created Disney’s Animal Kingdom and , the resort and spa in his native Hawaii. Like the Adventurers Club, both fea- ture rich and vivid details of exotic locales. The regular cast at the Adventurers Club featured several notable characters, including Hathaway Browne, a globe-trotting aviator and self-described ladies man; Samantha Sterling, a self-assured cabaret singer and world traveler; Otis Wren, the sarcastic and short-fused Club treasurer and Emil Bleehal, the meek but lovable simpleton who competes for the annual Jamie Hecker has been a lifelong fan of Disney, and is passing on his Balderdash Cup. While mingling with the characters at The Adventurers Club and love to his sons. He and his family exploring all the treasures within, notably in the mask room, the treasure room, the visit Orlando annually and always zebra mezzanine and the main salon, cries of hoopla! and kungaloosh! would fill the look forward to their next trip. air. Kungaloosh is a multi-purpose term, used to convey greetings, farewell and a When not in Orlando, he resides celebratory cheer while imbibing. in northern Virginia with his beautiful wife Suzanne, two boys and four cats. An Ending…and a New Beginning You can read more about his Alas, all good things must come to an end. In 2008 Disney shuttered all nightclub “hidden Disney” musings at operations on Pleasure Island to pave the way for what has now become Disney myhiddendisney.blogspot.com/ Springs. The Adventurers Club could no longer entertain Guests with zany tales of foreign travel. But, like so many other Disney attractions before it, the Adventurers Club would inspire a similar enterprise – The Society of Explorers and Adventur- ers, known in shorthand as S.E.A. The Adventurers Club is gone but certainly not forgotten, and Disney properties, fittingly around the globe, offer tributes to the nightclub. But first, a quick primer on what S.E.A. is. It’s a collection of scientists, research- ers, explorers, and adventurers, whose mission is to discover uncharted territory and waters around the globe. Notable members of S.E.A. include Harrison Hight-

28 · Celebrations ower III (who bears a not-so-coincidental resemblance to two franchises together. The S.E.A. dining room includes Joe Rohde), Lord Henry Mystic, and founding member Jason an extensive collection of tribal masks, a direct nod to the Chandler. mask room at the Adventurers Club. The best way for modern adventurers to fully engage Circling back to Disney Springs, the Society of Adventur- with S.E.A. is to grab your passport and set a course for the ers and Explorers can be found at the recently opened Jock Far East. First up is Tokyo’s immersive DisneySea park, pat- Lindsey’s Hanger Bar. Lindsey is a tertiary character from terned broadly after S.E.A. If you dare, step inside DisneySea’s the franchise, and he was Indy’s trusted bush Tower of Terror. According to the backstory, the hotel is op- pilot who flew him into and out of exotic locales. The back- erated by Hightower, who collected antiquities in an under- story is that he has a hangar bar to showcase his trophies handed manner. One such item was Shiriki Utundu, an idol accumulated on his adventures with Indy. What wasn’t con- from a remote African village said to possess great power. veyed in the movies, however, is that Jock is a full-fledged Hightower disregarded the tribal lore and openly scoffed at member of S.E.A. and is evident on the drinks and appetiz- its capabilities. Shiriki Utundu ers menu, which honors ‘pilot got the last laugh, vaporizing Jock Lindsey’ in a new mem- Hightower as a permanent bers dinner. ghost within his hotel and set- For adventurers with time ting the stage for its perpetual to explore, there are a few well- haunting. placed Adventurers Club trib- Relatively speaking, the utes in the Hanger Bar. There’s nearby a lost and found display that Resort has its variant of S.E.A. includes a well-worn pass- in its richly themed Mystic port. Upon close inspection, Manor, the park’s take on the it belongs to Samantha Ster- Haunted Mansion. Mystic ling, the Club’s leading female Manor is an exquisite Victo- explorer. On another wall in rian mansion and is the Soci- the Hanger Bar is a newspaper ety’s outpost established by clipping commemorating the Lord Mystic, built to showcase opening of the bar, set in 1940. his treasures after a lifetime At the ribbon cutting ceremo- of exploration. Guests who ny are Sterling and Otis Wren, travel through the queue can instantly recognizable in their see many of his relics first- Adventurers Club outfits. hand. The tie-in here to the Ad- There’s one more Adven- venturers Club is that many of turers Club tribute, and its its artifacts were repurposed setting is genuinely fitting. to . At Disney’s Animal Kingdom But what if your adventur- there’s a new upscale restau- ous spirit only takes you to rant, Tiffins, and an adjacent Walt Disney World? How can Nomad Lounge. The lounge you interact with S.E.A and even find some hidden Adven- celebrates the spirit of adventure, notably in the context of turers Club tributes on property? Well read on! At the Magic the travel and research that went into the creation of the Kingdom, head on over to its newest restaurant, the Jungle Animal Kingdom. The appetizer and drink menu focuses Navigation Company Ltd. Skipper Canteen. Although it’s pri- on culinary treats from Asia, Africa, and Central and South marily inspired by the nearby world famous America, and one item stands out – the Kungaloosh ‘spiced and the crackpot skippers who ply the rivers of the world, excursion ale.’ It seems fitting that two of Joe Rohde’s mas- the Canteen does feature one room that’s dedicated to the terful creations – The Adventurers Club and Animal King- Society of Explorers and Adventurers, officially tying these dom – are now intertwined.

Photo ©Tim Devine 29 · Celebrations Red, White, Blue, and Disneyland Too

t’s no secret that the Presidents of the United States come to life in Liberty ISquare, but Florida isn’t the only place where they can be spotted. As the Hall of Presidents prepares to add one more member to its ranks, Disneyland has hosted its own fair share of Secret Service-surrounded special Guests. At least six United States Presidents have visited . The first President to visit Disneyland was actually there on opening day – al- though it would be some time before he ran for office. Then-actor, ‘Ronny’ Reagan stood in front of the gates of Disneyland, on the Railroad Station platform at the By J Darling end of Main Street, and at the edge of the Rivers of America as the Mark Twain puffed by. Now, remember that Disneyland wasn’t considered a huge hit when it first opened. Women’s heels stuck in the asphalt on that hot day in July of 1955. The telecast on opening day was nearly as disastrous. Microphones went missing. Cuts to different cameras seemed to happen without adequate warning. The show was a mess, but Ronny’s performance was arguably the smoothest of anyone on cam- era. later came back to Disneyland in another highly televised event – Disneyland’s ’35 years of Magic’ celebration. He reflected fondly on his role in the Disneyland’s opening day festivities, saying, “I’m still living in the warm glow of what I saw here.” In 1957, Harry S. Truman made a family day out of a trip to Disneyland. Even though he left the Presidential office in 1953, politics was never far from his mind. During this visit, when asked to pose while riding Dumbo the Flying Elephant, he responded by saying, “Make it a Donkey and I’ll do it.” J Darling is a California native and About six years after that opening ceremony telecast (though still long before life long Disney fan. Her parents first Ronald Reagan would see the interior of the ), Disneyland got a visit took her to Disneyland when she was from another United States President. Dwight D. Eisenhower took a trip to Disney- 2 years old. According to them, her land with his wife and grandchildren in 1961. Photos discovered in the Disney ar- eyes just popped out of her head, and chives revealed Eisenhower and his wife greeting the press on Disneyland’s No. 1 fire apparently they never went back in. engine outside of the Main Street Fire Department, waving a firefighter’s helmet Outside of her Disney fandom, J is a singer, songwriter, blogger, and to the crowd. Other photos revealed Eisenhower and his grandkids exploring the theatrical actress. Fred Gurley train, riding the Jungle Cruise, and engaging in other moments of fam- You can find her music at ily fun. In regard to Walt Disney, Eisenhower once remarked, “As an artist, your work www.jdarlingmusic.com has helped reveal our country to the world, and the world to all of us. As a man, and on Myspace at your sympathetic attitude toward life has helped our children develop a clean and www.jdarlingmusicmyspace.com. Her cheerful view of humanity, with all its frailties and possibilities for good.” It’s safe blogs are available at www.jjourneybook.blogspot.com. to say they had a memorable trip and that he was a fan of Walt Disney’s work and imagination. The Eisenhowers spent about six hours in the park before retiring to Walt Disney’s apartment above the firehouse on Main Street. Dwight D. Eisenhower invited Ahmed Sekou Toure, the President of Guinea, to tour the United States. As part of that tour, he visited Southern California for three days. No visit to Southern California would be complete without a trip to Disney- land, especially when a traveler has come from such a distance! Then-Senator John F. Kennedy met Ahmed Sekou Toure during part of a speaking tour through California. It just so happens that they met at Disneyland at the Main

30 · Celebrations Street Railroad Station. ride the Matterhorn and the . But the probably holds the record for the shortest most notable part of the visit was when got a visit to Disneyland of any United States President. In fact, he preview of the . It was going to be christened later didn’t go on a single ride. Like many Presidents before and on that day, but Walt Disney and the Nixon family hopped after him, Jimmy Carter used running as a means to stay on for an early ride. (the Imagineer behind the healthy. He quite possibly may have run the first unofficial attraction, and nearly everything else that moves at Dis- race through Disneyland. neyland) was sure the monorail would work long enough But the President who (currently) holds the record for vis- to get out of view of the television cameras that were fol- iting Disneyland the most is Richard Nixon. Born in Yorba lowing this momentous occasion. But after that, it was Linda, California in 1913, Richard Nixon has always had close anybody’s guess. ties to Disneyland’s home of Orange County. As Vice Presi- While the trip was successful, the President’s Secret dent, Richard Nixon’s August 11th visit to Disneyland in 1955 Service had been left behind on the platform! Try as they was a field day for the press. He was presented with the Key might to run along the platform to catch up, they failed. At to Disneyland on the steps of City Hall on Main Street, U.S.A. the time, monorail was a round trip attraction – with no He is the only President (to date) to be presented with the other stops, so the danger was minimal (other than those Key to Disneyland. that come along on the On that same trip, new attraction). The Richard Nixon traveled monorail was still in with his family and rode its testing phase, and attractions all over the even on opening day, it park, including long- had made exactly one closed attractions like successful loop around Rocket to the Moon and its track according to 20,000 Leagues Under Bob Gurr. But during the Sea, as well as at- that preview, it made tractions that still exist two loops. Imagine the today (though heavily surprise of the Secret modified) like the Jun- Service when the mono- gle Cruise and Tomor- rail didn’t stop upon rowland . The its return! Nixon’s girls Times de- wanted to go a second scribed the Nixons’ Au- time, so the monorail topia experience: “Lead- went around one more ing were three secret service men in separate tiny , time, before finally stopping and opening its doors to the followed by the Vice-President and Tricia, Mrs. Nixon with frazzled Secret Service members. Walt Disney and Bob Gurr Michael Ryan, other members of the party distributed two effectively (though inadvertently!) kidnapped the Vice Pres- by two in other cars, then three solemn Anaheim police of- ident of the United States – using the monorail. The Nixon’s ficers, each in his separate car, and two carloads of newspa- visited Disneyland twice in 1961 and again in 1968, though it’s per photographers bringing up the rear. The crowd loved it unclear if they returned to the resort after that. and cheered the motorists on.” While the Magic Kingdom has the Hall of Presidents, and The Nixon family didn’t make it back to the park until 1959. Disneyland had played host to Great Moments with Mr. Lin- Like many families, while Richard Nixon was taking care of coln, hopefully the future residents of the White House will some local business, his wife and the kids got an early start continue to get a chance to breath a little pixie dust from in the parks. After lunch in Walt’s Firehouse apartment, the time to time, and embrace the creativity, freedom, and family was led on a tour of all the new attractions that had magic that make up this place that’s ‘as American as Mickey opened since their last visit. They were among the first to Mouse and apple pie.’

31 · Celebrations 32 · Celebrations his month’s featured attraction is all about patrio- Williamsburg. The building is composed of an amazing Ttism! No, I’m not talking about the most patriotic 110,000 hand-formed bricks. area of Walt Disney World, Liberty Square. Instead, I’m Many fans of the Magic Kingdom are aware of the heading over to Epcot to look at what might be the most architectural technique known as forced perspective, patriotic attraction in Walt Disney World, The American where the second and third story windows of buildings Adventure. are made smaller to create the illusion of a much larger The American Adventure is an extremely elaborate building. The American Adventure actually uses reverse theatrical show (much more so than most Guests real- forced perspective, thereby making the enormous five- ize) about America and the American people, from the story building actually only appear to be three stories. arrival of the pilgrims through World War II. One of the Upon entering The American Adventure, Guests step most important aspects of The American Adventure, into a grand rotunda. The room features an oval shaped and one that endears it to many Guests and gives it im- area in the middle with a large dome shaped ceiling. This mediate credibility, is that the attraction both celebrates large holding area includes many interesting finds to the triumphs of the American people and recognizes entertain Guests. Pay close attention to the walls in the mistakes made along the way. In fact, the American Ad- rotunda, as they are decorated with quotes from sev- venture is unique amongst World Showcase pavilions eral famous Americans, including Walt Disney, Charles A. in that it is the only one to feature an attraction that is, Lindbergh, and Thomas Wolfe. Also included are several at times, critical of the paintings that depict host nation. various scenes of Amer- The American Adven- ican life through differ- ture has entertained ent historical periods. Guests since Epcot’s One of the best hid- opening day, October den gems in all of Walt 1, 1982, and combines Disney World can be an awe-inspiring show found right here: The building, a surprisingly Voices of Liberty. This detailed queue, a star- eight member a capella studded cast of histori- group performs beauti- cal Audio-Animatronic fully arranged versions figures, and wonderful of classic American music to create one of the most moving and dramatic songs in the rotunda throughout the day, and serves as attractions in all of Walt Disney World a stirring pre-show for Guests waiting for the next per- formance of The American Adventure theatrical show. A Dramatic and Patriotic Façade and Queue Guests should also take the time to explore the ad- The American Adventure show building is absolutely jacent American Heritage Gallery, which currently fea- breathtaking and unmistakable. It is located between tures numerous art exhibits and artifacts from famous the Italy Pavilion and the Japan Pavilion, sitting directly African Americans throughout history. across the lagoon as Guests enter World Showcase from When the time for the next theatrical performance Future World. The building façade would fit perfectly arrives, Cast Members lead Guests from the rotunda in Liberty Square in the Magic Kingdom (aside from through the breathtaking Hall of Flags, featuring forty- its enormity), as it features stunning English-Georgian four different flags from American history, and eventu- architecture reminiscent of the time of the American ally to the entrance of the main theater. Guests will im- Revolutionary War. In constructing The American Ad- mediately notice the 12 dramatic life-size statues that venture attraction building, Disney drew inspiration line the walls to the left and right of the stage. The stat- from in Philadelphia, Boston’s Old ues, which collectively represent the “Spirits of America,” State House, Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, and Colonial include:

Main Photo © Tim Devine, Inset Photos © Garry Rollins 33 · Celebrations • The Spirit of Adventure (A sailor) closed because of the actions taken by the colonists during • The Spirit of Innovation (A scientist) the Boston Tea Party. Guests next see an Audio-Animatronic • The Spirit of Heritage (A Native American woman) Thomas Jefferson working on the Declaration of Indepen- • The Spirit of Discovery (A frontiersman) dence. He reads aloud for Guests: • The Spirit of Individualism (A cowboy) “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created • The Spirit of Self-Reliance (A farmer) equal. That they are endowed by their creator with certain inalien- • The Spirit of Freedom (A pilgrim) able rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of • The Spirit of Compassion (A doctor) happiness.” • The Spirit of Knowledge (A woman holding a book) Guests then view a series of scenes from the American • The Spirit of Pioneering (An aviator) Revolution as the song “In the Days of ‘76” plays. The scene • The Spirit of Tomorrow (A mother holding a baby) concludes with Franklin stating, • The Spirit of Independent (A Revolutionary War patriot) “In the end, we the people, prevailed and achieved perhaps our greatest dream. Thirteen very different colonies became the Unit- The Attraction ed States of America, and “Stained and tinted we were free to become an with all colors, a seem- entire nation of dreamers ingly ethnic anarchy. Then and doers.” in a little time, we became As The American Ad- more alike than we were venture moves towards different. In society, not Westward expansion, great, but fitted by our very Mark Twain takes over thoughts for greatness.” primary narration du- Once Guests are ties. In perhaps one seated in the theater, of the most powerful the attraction begins statements in any Walt in complete darkness. Disney World attrac- As the curtain lifts, we tion, Twain proclaims: see Audio-Animatronic “You Founding Fathers versions of our hosts, Ben Franklin and Mark Twain, seated gave us a pretty good start...[but] a whole bunch of folks found out on stage. As Franklin states that the story of America be- that ‘We the People’ didn’t yet mean all the people.” gan long before him, a picture of the Mayflower landing on The film then addresses the Antebellum Era of American America’s shores is shown. history, including the institution of slavery. An Audio-Ani- The American Adventure includes numerous moving matronic Frederic Douglas states that: songs that help to tell the attraction’s story, beginning with “I hear the noise of chains and the crack of the whip…Yet there’s “New World Bound.” The song describes the many challenges hope.” faced by the pilgrims when they arrived in America, includ- A family portrait is then shown with two brothers arguing ing the need for food and shelter, and the harsh weather con- about the merits of southern secession from the Union, with ditions they faced. As the song plays, numerous artistic ren- the mother proclaiming that she is just happy that the whole derings are displayed of pilgrims enduring these conditions. family is together. In one of the more emotional scenes in any “First we spoke out with our voices, then we spoke out with ac- Walt Disney World attraction, the song “Two Brothers” plays, tion, with a growing defiance, that led to the Boston Tea Party.” at the end of which the family portrait is again shown, this The show then moves to the age of the early American time with one of the brothers fading away, indicating that he colonies, and the new challenges faced by its inhabitants passed away during the . – growing tensions with Great Britain. A large scroll is low- The next scene also touches on a sensitive issue in Ameri- ered from the ceiling, which is a replication of the procla- can history, the plight of Native Americans during the West- mation from King George III that Boston Harbor would be ward expansion. Mark Twain comments:

34 · Celebrations Photo © Tim Devine “The wisdom of the Great Chief Joseph reminded us once again “Yesterday, December 7th, 1941, a date which will live in infamy, of our long painful journey through the frontiers of human liberty.” the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately at- Audio-Animatronic versions of Alexander Graham Bell, tacked…” This of course signifies the beginning of World Andrew Carnegie, and Susan B. Anthony then provide dif- War II, and the show continues with Rosie the Riveter and ferent takes on the “age of grand ideas.” Anthony advocates another moving song, “I’ll be Home for Christmas,” playing for women’s suffrage, while Bell and Carnegie discuss new in the background. inventions and “progress” for this era. Guests view scenes of The show next introduces what is considered to be the numerous inventions from this time period, including the highlight of the show, the Golden Dream montage, featur- light bulb, airplane, and trolley. ing pictures and videos of famous Americans from the 20th The show then proceeds through the early 20th cen- and 21st centuries. The “Golden Dream” song, which was tury, specifically World War I and the Great Depression. written by Robert Moline and Randy Bright, is also consid- This begins with Audio-Animatronic versions of President ered the theme song for the entire American Adventure at- and noted conservationist John Muir traction. Among those displayed are Neil Armstrong, Walt discussing the growing need Disney, Johnny Carson, Albert to balance the industrial Einstein, Dwight Eisenhower, progress of our growing na- , Bob Hope, John tion with the conservation F. Kennedy, Martin Luther needs of the environment. King, Jr., Marilyn Monroe, This is followed by clips from Jackie Robinson, Frank Sina- World War I, a proclamation tra, Tom Brokaw, , telling of Charles Lindbergh’s and George Bush. The Golden famous flight across the At- Dream montage concludes lantic Ocean aboard the Spirit with the Apollo 11 landing on of St. Louis, and finally a news the Moon. flash announcing that the The return of our hosts stock market has crashed on ushers in the final part of the October 29, 1929. American Adventure, with The song “Brother Can You Mark Twain and Ben Frank- Spare a Dime” plays as four lin sitting high atop the men sit on the front porch torch of the Statue of Liberty. of a rural gas station from Twain cautions about the 1929. As those men discuss the future perils that we, as state of the country and the obviously struggling economy, Americans, now face: a nearby radio plays the inauguration of Franklin Delano “We now face the danger, which in the past has been the most de- Roosevelt. An Audio-Animatronic version of President Roo- structive to the humans: success, plenty, comfort, and ever-increas- sevelt gives a speech that concludes with his most famous ing leisure. No dynamic people has ever survived these dangers.” line of “let me assert my firm belief, that the only thing we have to The attraction does end on a positive note, and one we fear is fear itself.” should all listen to today, with Ben Franklin stating: Guests are then treated to an appearance by Will Rogers “I may have invented these bifocals I’m wearing, but I can assure (in Audio-Animatronic form of course), who states: they are not rose-colored. Mr. Twain, the golden age never was the “We had begun to believe that the height of civilization was an au- present age, but with human liberty we can fulfill the promise and tomobile, a radio, and a bathtub. Course now we’re a lot smarter. Now meaning of America. Congress wants to trim down the Navy so it will fit in the bathtub To everyone a chance, believed Thomas Wolfe, to all people re- too. Ya know, it seems to me like we’re the only nation…that waits ‘til gardless of birth, a right to live, to work, to be themselves, and to they get into a war, before we start getting ready for it.” become whatever their visions can combine to make them. This is Guests then hear the historical radio announcement, the promise of America!”

Photo © Garry Rollins 35 · Celebrations By Lori Elias

36 · Celebrations he autumn of 2016 proved to bring with it a number of and 2014. They assembled what they called their “Oceanic Tdiversions to distract us from the angst of the historic Story Trust”: local anthropologists, teachers, navigators, and often tense presidential election: the 45th anniversa- and cultural experts who served as consultants through- ry of the opening of the Magic Kingdom, a thrilling World out the creation of the film. The Oceanic Story Trust served Series between two powerhouse Midwest teams, and the as an immense help in determining the look of Moana, for arrival of Disney’s 56th animated feature, Moana, the first though there are no extant descriptions of how girls her Disney film to take place in the islands of the South Pacific. age would have dressed, the islanders advised the anima- Do not call Moana a “princess movie,” and certainly do not tion team that red would be appropriate for her garment, refer to its title character as a “princess,” though she is the as it is the color of royalty – hence the color of her signa- daughter of her island’s chief: she is a heroine, a distinction ture apparel. Their second trip was focused solely on the that was imperative to co-director , the mas- music and culture of the South Pacific, and to that end, termind behind such blockbusters as The Little Mermaid Disney approached Opetaia Foa’I, the leader of pan-Oceania (1989), Aladdin (1992) and The Princess and the Frog (2009). He fusion band Te Vaka, to create and perform songs for the and his colleague , with whom he has worked soundtrack. Mark Mancina (, , Planes) con- side-by side for more than two decades, were determined to tributed incidental music to the score as well. To fill out the make Moana a force in her own right, embarking on adven- song-writing, Disney tapped recent Tony winner Lin-Manu- tures and discovering the young woman she is destined to el Miranda, who had electrified Broadway audiences with be, all without the help of a handsome prince; instead it is she his heart-warming hip-hop infused musical In the Heights. It who comes to the aid of the demigod Maui. The animation was during the Moana development process that his new- team took this concept to another level by making Moana a est show, a contemporary take on one of America’s lesser- less winsome and more athletic (and some would say realis- known Revolutionary patriots, arrived on Broadway. Unbe- tic) appearing girl, a strong young person who is physically knownst to anyone at that time, Hamilton, the story of the capable of taking on the demands of the life she is leading. “ten dollar Founding Father,” would become a cultural icon, (While some might believe that the character of Maui thrusting Miranda (who also starred in the title role) into was named for the Hawaiian island, he was actually a very the national and international spotlight, and thus lending important figure in Polynesian mythology. Maui appears further prestige to the music-writing team. in the legends of not only Hawaii, but also the Cook Islands, Not only was the music crucial to the integrity of the sto- New Zealand, Tahiti and Tonga, and his story differs from ry, but art was as well. Each of Maui’s intricate tattoos help location to location; the Disney character combines traits to tell his personal story, and were not only painstakingly described in the various stories.) difficult to draw, but also to animate: skin is constantly Musker was intrigued by the region after reading novels moving, and to move the tattoos accurately with the skin of Herman Melville and Joseph Conrad, as well as studying was complicated and very time-consuming. The animated paintings by Paul Gaugin. Realizing that the concepts pre- tattoo Mini Maui, which acts as a sort of Jiminy Cricket to sented in these great works were done so with the bias of the demigod, was drawn in two-dimensional animation, so people who did not actually live in these locations, Clements that he would stand out from the computerized animation and Musker ventured to Tahiti and the island nations of Sa- used in the rest of the film. , who had served moa and Fiji. There they learned that ancient sailors of the as the lead animator for the Genie in Aladdin, headed this South Pacific were some of the greatest navigators the world aspect of the film. had seen to date, and accomplished this by using only stars Hawaiian teenage actress Auli’i Cravalho voiced the title and wave currents, but sometime around 2000 years ago, character in her cinematic debut. She was joined by Dwayne their explorations abruptly stopped; perhaps just as oddly, “The Rock” Johnson as Maui, who shares his co-star’s Polyne- they suddenly resumed again about 1000 years afterward. sian background, as his mother is of Samoan descent. Rec- There are no records to explain why this happened, so this ognized primarily for his early career as a WWF wrestler in mystery became the crux of what would become Moana. the mid-1990s, Johnson began appearing in television and The Moana creative team literally followed Clements and movie roles by the end of that decade, and has since moved Musker’s footsteps, taking 13 trips to these islands, as well on to work in such films as Get Smart (2008), Race to Witch as Bora Bora and other islands of Oceania, between 2011 Mountain (2009) and the Fast & Furious franchise.

Artwork © Disney 37 · Celebrations Every Disney hero needs a sidekick, preferably one who is Jemaine Clement voiced Tamatoa. He brought to the role an endearing animal, and Moana is no exception. Portray- animation experience with Despicable Me (2010) as Jerry, as ing Hei Hei (dubbed by the creative team as possibly the well as Rio (2011) and Rio 2 (2014) as Nigel. He also worked pre- “stupidest character in Disney animation”) was Alan Tudyk viously for Disney as the Prison King in 2014’s Muppets Most in his fifth voice actor appearance in a Disney film, follow- Wanted. Temuera Morrison played Moana’s father, Chief Tui. ing King Candy in Wreck-It Ralph (2012), the Duke of Weselton Fans of the Star Wars franchise might have recognized his in Frozen (2013), Alistair Krei in Big Hero 6 (2014) and Duke Wea- voice as that of Jango Fett in Attack of the Clones and Com- selton in (2016). mander Cody in Revenge of the Sith. Auckland actress Rachel New Zealand is heavily represented in the Moana cast. House voiced Gramma Tala.

38 · Celebrations Artwork ©Disney Moana Fascinating Facts character gel with the story, or Hei Hei would end up on • Moana is the first full-length computerized film directed the chopping block. By making him “stupid” rather than by Ron Clements and John Musker. “brawny,” his character instantly became more interesting, • “Moana” means “ocean” in Maori, the language of indigenous and thus saved him, possibly even adding him to the lexi- New Zealanders. con of Disney’s most beloved sidekicks! • Over the course of the creative team’s research trips, over • Lin-Manuel Miranda brought some of his Hamilton pals 10,000 photos were taken of the region’s scenery. along for Moana: Philippa Soo, who portrayed Alexander’s • Due to the complexity of their movement, water and lava wife Eliza in the original Broadway cast, voices one of the were considered characters by the animation team. When villagers, and Christopher Jackson (George Washington) the lava TeKa, one of the film’s villains, is on-screen, a num- sings in the movie’s opening. (Another Hamilton alum, Tony ber of layers of animation are being displayed, including Award-winner Daveed Diggs, who played the Marquis de fire, smoke, and water. Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson on stage, can be heard • At one time, Maui was groomed as the lead character, but when Finnick turns on his car radio in Zootopia.) throughout development of the story, focus instead shift- • Moana was in development after Hamilton had opened, so ed to Moana. Miranda would Skype with the Disney creative team from • Hei Hei was almost removed from the film! His character backstage, frequently garbed in his Alexander Hamilton originally had far more machismo, and the part simply costumes. was not working with the rest of the movie. Producer John • Moana’s blue and white necklace is meant to symbolize the Lasseter gave his team two days to find a way to make his land and sea.

39 · Celebrations The Evolution of Epcot: From a City of the Future to the Promise of Tomorrow By Nick Comande & Tim Foster

40 · Celebrations Photo © Mike Billick 41 · Celebrations Early concept painting by famed Disney artist Herb Ryman showing a courtyard view of World Showcase

pcot (originally known as EPCOT, an acronym meaning sired his future project to be all his, and now he had a place EExperimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow) was to do it. Walt Disney’s greatest and most ambitious dream. It was to Throughout his career, Walt’s imagination never slowed be the centerpiece of what was known as the Florida Proj- down, and indeed, the seeds for his grandest of schemes ect. In Florida, Walt was thrilled to have something that he had been germinating for years. Even before finishing one did not have in California. As Walt Disney himself said, “Here project, he had others already in the works. In the case of his in Florida, we have something special we never enjoyed in utopian vision (and on a lesser scale, the idea of a new park Disneyland, the blessing of size. There is enough land here to on the East Coast), would it work? He needed a place to test hold all the ideas and plans we could possibly imagine”…and his ideas, and that opportunity would come in the form of Walt had a very big imagination. In fact, Walt’s plans for Flor- the New York World’s Fair of 1964-65. ida were far beyond anything that anyone had envisioned. Starting in late 1964, through the use of a number of The Proving Grounds of the World’s Fair dummy corporations, the Disney Company secretly bought This was the third World’s Fair to be held in New York, and over 30,000 acres of undeveloped land near Orlando, Florida. the theme for this event was “Peace Through Understand- Secrecy was of great importance, for if word had gotten out ing.” The Fair was to be a great undertaking, showcasing as to the identity of the real buyer, prices would have surely American culture and technology, and fortunately there skyrocketed. But eventually Walt accomplished what he was someone who was ideally suited for such an endeavor. wanted; to acquire a place to build, experiment, and then That person was Walt Disney. build some more. Even though Walt had been toying with When the Fair opened, Walt had no less than four pavil- the idea of an East Coast theme park, his ulterior motive ions that WED Enterprises specifically built for the occa- was not just to build another Disneyland. (Walt was never sion, with the help of various corporate sponsors. These one for sequels.) Walt’s dreams were much grander; he sponsorships enabled Disney to create some of the largest wanted to build a community, a city in fact, which would be and most technologically advanced attractions ever made. far superior to any city that existed at the time. A city free Walt jumped at the chance to use the Fair to finalize, test, from noise, traffic, pollution, , and all of the and show off his latest Audio-Animatronic technology (still other downsides of modern urban living. He did not want in its infancy), and to prove that an East Coast theme park to build on something that was previously started. He de- was feasible. At least, that’s how it appeared to the much of

42 · Celebrations Artwork © Disney neyland. The success of the Fair indicated that not only was an East Coast park feasible, it could potentially be a huge success. But Walt didn’t want to build just another Disney- land; he had long been leaning in an entirely new direction. Branching away from the entertainment industry that he created, he was becoming more and more concerned with the future of the world that we were living in. He wanted to build the city of the future.

Dreaming of Tomorrow Now that Walt had grandchildren in his life, he wanted to plan a place where people could live, thrive, and learn. A place away from the hectic, crowded, and crime filled cit- ies. Walt had been studying books about city planning, and he envisioned a multi-level city where education and tech- nology were at the forefront. A place that was safe, clean, and where quick, efficient transportation such as mono- the world. While it was true that these were a few of the rails and could move vast numbers of people motives behind Walt’s participation in the Fair, he also had without the pollution and hassle of modern-day traffic. Un- other, grander, ideas in mind. derground maintenance and deliveries would be the norm The pavilions that Walt and his team created were so in Walt’s futuristic utopia. Even the city’s trash would be re- popular that they ran for both of the six-month segments moved via underground maintenance facilities, as Walt felt of the Fair, and some of the attractions and concepts can that no one should have to wake up to the sound of an early still be seen today. The pavilions included “Great Moments morning garbage truck with metal cans clanging away, nor with Mr. Lincoln,” featuring a never-before seen life-like have to endure the sight of cluttered garbage cans lining Audio-Animatronic figure of , rising from the streets. a chair to recite some of his more memorable speeches. It Much like his layout of the different lands leading away was such a success that a second figure was built for Dis- from the central hub in Disneyland, Walt’s ideal city would neyland. Another exhibit was “Ford’s Magic ,” featur- be radial in concept, complete with suburbs, parks, golf ing 50 motorless vehicles supplied by the Ford Motor Com- courses, and other recreational activities that would be pany. The cars moved along a track that showcased some of laid out like a giant wheel. Its spokes would be comprised Walt’s larger Animatronic figures, including various types of of quiet and PeopleMovers transporting people dinosaurs in a tropical rainforest. back and forth from the central working hub of the city to Another Disney attraction, Progressland, was a circular the outlying residential areas. And inclement weather? No theater where the audience revolved around a four-section problem. Walt intended to provide a climate-controlled en- stage, with each scene showcasing technological progress vironment in his city by completely containing it under a throughout the years. To this day, the song “There’s a Great large dome in order to protect it from the elements. Walt’s Big Beautiful Tomorrow” still plays in the Carousel of Prog- city would emphasize education and community; provide ress in the Magic Kingdom (having moved to Florida from a place for technology to flourish; and to invite cultures Disneyland in 1973, opening in on January 15, from around the world to provide his city with the feel of a 1975). “it’s a small world” was the fourth attraction to debut World’s Fair that would never end. This was Walt’s grandest at the World’s Fair, featuring dozens and dozens of whimsi- dream, and he dubbed it the Experimental Prototype Com- cal dolls representing countries from all around the world. munity of Tomorrow, or EPCOT. The World’s Fair was a tremendous success. Previous stud- Walt was so secretive with his plans that he even ap- ies had shown that while 75% of the U.S. population lived proached Major General William “Joe” Potter (whose name east of the Mississippi River, only 5% of them visited Dis- would later grace one of the ferry boats that continue to

43 · Celebrations transport Guests to the Magic Kingdom), who at the time conditions for the residents of crowded cities. Interestingly, was serving as the Fair’s vice president, to join his compa- Walt’s interest in city planning was so passionate that Ray ny in a highly secretive capacity. Potter agreed to join and Bradbury once suggested that he run for mayor of Los An- found himself heading up a project that Disney had called geles! Walt’s reply was deceptively dismissive; “Why should “Project Future.” As it turned out, despite what most of the I run for mayor when I am already king?” But in fact the public thought, Walt Disney’s presence at the World’s Fair wheels were already in motion for Walt’s vision of a city of wasn’t an end unto itself, it was a testing ground for what tomorrow. would become Walt’s biggest dream…surpassing that of As the reality of the Florida Project began to come into Disneyland itself. view, Walt became more and more focused on EPCOT. The planning of the actual park was left to others; Walt was fo- The Seeds of an Idea cused on his true dream for his new venture. Originally in- Soon after Disneyland opened, the possibility of an East tended as a city where the park employees would live, Walt Coast park had always been floated about. Rumors abound- maniacally focused on the concepts of having commercial ed about possible sites in , Niagara Falls, Kansas and residential areas co-existing, as well as developing a City, and even Brazil. For a brief while St. Louis seemed to be transportation system that would allow people to move in the leading contender, but as history has born out, the ulti- and out of the city without the associated problems of traf- mate home for Walt’s new park was in the middle of Florida. fic and pollution. While the creation of a Disneyland-east was foremost on However, Walt was smart enough to know that he everyone’s mind (at least when the identity of the mystery couldn’t accomplish all of this by himself. To that end he had property buyer was revealed to be Disney in 1965), in actual- always envisioned the city not as a be-all solution, but a con- ity the park was the farthest thing from Walt’s real dream. tinuing experiment where the very people that lived there, To Walt, the Florida Project (as it came to be know) was and the corporations that provided the technologies used the chance for him to build his utopian city of the future. in the new city, would themselves be the proving ground The germ of this idea could very well be traced back to a for these forward-thinking ideas. (Hence the “Experimental” train ride that Walt undertook when returning from the component of the EPCOT name.) Chicago Railroad Fair in 1948. During the trip, he comment- Walt had many things to consider: a population upwards ed to that he couldn’t understand why people of 20,000 or even 100,000 people, pre-school education, home lived in cities…particularly a city like Los Angeles with its environment, employment, care of senior citizens, recre- vast urban sprawl. Even then he had a dream of creating ation, places for worship, self-sufficient energy, no trash the perfect urban setting; one free from traffic, noise, pov- collection, modern transportation (including monorails erty, and the other drawbacks of modern urban life. and PeopleMovers), and ultimately government (which is a Even when he was working on the plans for Tomorrow- whole other story in its own right!). To put it simply, accord- land in Disneyland, Walt was thinking about city planning ing to visionary city planner Robert Moses, “EPCOT would be on a broader scale, pondering topics such as traffic pat- the first accident free, noise free, pollution free city center terns, noise pollution, and the clutter of neon signs (some in America.” of the very factors that would eventually plague Disneyland As Walt Disney moved forward with the actual planning and push Walt into finding a new location that would free of the city, he enlisted the help of Welton Becket (who had him from the restrictions of urban chaos). He would pore designed the Century City complex in Los Angeles), though over the works of Sir Ebenezer Howell (author of “Garden he eventually became disenchanted with the inhospitable Cities of Tomorrow”), and Victor Gruen (“The Heart of Our appearance of Becket’s buildings. Walt soon handed the Cities” and “Out of a Fair, a City”), whose visions centered task over to his Imagineers. Walt would check in with his upon a pastoral, urban life free from disorder. Another of team several times a week as work progressed, scribbling Walt’s major influences came from the planning ideas of notes on napkins, rearranging models, and making numer- the French architect Charles-Édouard Jeanneret, known ous suggestions. The culmination of this effort was a five- as Le Corbusier, one of the major pioneers of modern ar- thousand-acre city, arranged in the aforementioned hub- chitecture, who was dedicated to providing better living and-spoke design used at Disneyland. Not coincidentally, the

44 · Celebrations Early concept painting of Epcot showing the two connected semicircular buildings that would host all of the national pavilions. prominent shape in the city’s design was a circle, echoing was Walt’s dream of EPCOT. Roy knew, and many of Walt’s the importance of that shape in the design of confidents suspected deep down, that only Walt would have himself, imparting a sense of comfort to the viewer. The been able to bring his dream to fruition. With Walt gone, at- center of the city was the commercial hub, a fully enclosed tention turned instead to the creation of Walt Disney World climate-controlled complex highlighted by a thirty-story and the Magic Kingdom. hotel and well as shops, theaters, and markets. Moving out- ward from the city center, concentric rings of apartments, EPCOT Resurrected houses, and industrial areas were connected by a series of But as it turned out, Walt’s dream did not pass with him. monorails and PeopleMovers, all serviced by a jet airport. Even though the creation of a utopian city of the future Most charmingly of all, the heart of the center would be oc- seemed well beyond the reach of Disney’s Imagineers, the cupied by an oval-shaped area with a park bench, where, as idea of a new park created in the spirit of EPCOT still re- Walt would say, “…Lilly and I are going to sit and watch.” mained in the back of everyone’s minds. Even though the The Florida Project Comes Into Focus construction of an actual city was beyond the abilities of In 1966, Walt was intently focused on researching and the current Disney team, the words that Walt Disney him- planning for EPCOT. The spring of that year saw him under- self spoke in his infamous television speech in October of take research trips to a six-acre mall in Rochester, a shop- 1966 still rang true in the hearts of many: ping mall in Philadelphia, the Nieman-Marcus department EPCOT would be “…A community of tomorrow that will store in Dallas, and the model city of Reston, Virginia, which never be completed, but will continually always be intro- was as actual . He ended this trip with a ducing and testing and demonstrating new materials and visit to the Florida site itself, to envision how such concepts new systems, it will always be a showcase to the world would take shape in this newly developing area. where the ingenuity and imagination of American free en- Walt’s dream for EPCOT would occupy him for the rest of terprise will always be in the state of becoming, never cease his days. Even on the eve of his passing, he spent hours in to be a living blueprint of the future, where people can live a his hospital bed next to his brother Roy, tracing his plans life they can’t find anywhere else in the world.” for EPCOT on the ceiling with his finger, plans that only Imagineer , who wrote that original narra- Walt could see in his head. When Walt Disney passed away tion for Walt’s presentation of EPCOT, would eventually the next morning, his heart-broken family mourned along head up the project’s development along with John Hench, with the entire world. As far as his grandest and unfulfilled one of Disney’s Vice Chairman and Principle Creative Chair- dream was concerned, Roy Disney poignantly told Marvin man. Roy Disney had rightly been concerned with Walt’s Davis, upon being presented with the Imagineers’ latest greatest dream. What did Walt know about building and plans for Walt’s city, “Marvin, Walt’s dead.” And implicitly, so running a city, especially one that had ideas that were new

Artwork © Disney 45 · Celebrations and not yet tried on such a large scale? It was a far greater lic services of a city…what was lacking was “center” for the challenge than Walt had when he originally designed and communication of the new possibilities for the future [for] built his animation studios. Walt was always thinking ahead the public. when planning things. If his studio failed, the building was To answer this need, we are developing EPCOT Center, a designed in such a way that if he had to sell it, the building permanent World’s Fair of imagination, discover, education, could be used as a hospital. Walt’s largest project had been and exploration…to be a voice of optimism.” the construction of Disneyland, and as big an undertaking However, even the planning of this new park posed plenty as it was, it would be dwarfed by the domed utopian dream of challenges. While the concepts of showcasing technologi- that Walt wanted to build. cal innovation and a world-focused shopping center had Roy could not envision taking on the massive responsibil- been just a few of the components of Walt’s original plans, ity of building an entire city without the guidance of Walt it would be these concepts that would form the basis of the Disney himself, new park. But and truth be even then the told he doubted layout of the even Walt could park was far have pulled it from decided. off. With Walt The design of gone, the EP- the park would COT project, if it go through were to contin- numerous it- ue, would need erations before to change. And construction in fact, when even began. In EPCOT finally fact, one of the opened, it was early concepts not the city that for EPCOT Cen- Walt envisioned ter (as it was it, but it was no then known), less amazing. consisted solely An early site model showing how World Showcase was to be the entryway to EPCOT Center. And so, in 1982, of World Show- spanning 300 acres at a cost of $800,000,000, EPCOT Center case. Future pavilions that would showcase new technolog- was opened. ical advances were to be added as ancillary attractions as the years went on. According to the first official announce- The Evolution of Epcot ment made by (then COO of Walt Disney Pro- While Disney’s Imagineers had long abandoned any ex- ductions) regarding the reimagined EPCOT, the concept of pectation that they could create a true city of the future, the park would be “…the construction of a permanent in- they did their best to incorporate as many of Walt’s ideals ternational showcase, in which nations of the world may into the theme park that would bear its name. As was sum- participate on a permanent basis to demonstrate their cul- marized in the official program for the Grand Opening and ture and their products.” Dedication Ceremony of EPCOT Center in 1982: The initial plans for this World Showcase-focused park “…Walt Disney envisioned a place where the greatest comprised two semicircular buildings, basically forming a feats of humans imagination and invention could be com- figure eight, with the nation’s pavilions all contained within municated to the benefit of all the people. [With] Walt Dis- the buildings. Since the public area would be the interior ney’s death…many believed the dream might die with Walt. courtyard between the two buildings, each pavilion would Not so...The planners, designers, engineers, and operators of have the same street frontage, such that no country would Walt Disney World are already providing nearly all the pub- appear more prominent or more important than another.

46 · Celebrations Artwork © Disney Any differences in space required by the pavilions would be foreign visitors. The original design was also of a contempo- accomplished be extending the interiors of the pavilions rary nature, likened to the Hirshorn Museum in the nation’s away from the entrances (hidden from public view). The capital. courtyard would also feature a giant observation tower, Eventually, a solution was struck upon that, rather than which would ostensibly serve as the park’s “weenie,” or pri- presenting the United States pavilion as the grand focus of mary visual icon (as is the case with Castle in the World Showcase complete with modern-day architecture, Magic Kingdom). That concept was eventually abandoned it would be reimagined as a more historic representative of of course in favor of the iconic geodesic sphere of Spaceship America’s origins. Instead of being a showcase of the inno- Earth. vations of today and tomorrow, a stage show was created This plan also included the EPCOT Theme Center (the that celebrated America’s history and its place in world precursor of today’s Future World), which was comprised culture, shared by the other nations in the pavilion. And of of three sec- course, the pavil- tions: science, ion itself would communica- be renamed for tion, and com- the attraction it munity. Here played host to, Guests could the American see the latest Adventure. innovations The Epcot that in these areas, we know today much like an bears little re- ever-changing semblance to World’s Fair. Walt’s original Further it- dream. It doesn’t erations of have housing for the park lay- 20,000 people; out would no suburbs for come closer to families to grow, the eventual Courtyard of Nations conceptual art. Note the high rise observation tower in the center. Also no parks for chil- notice that each pavilion presented the same amount of frontage for Guests in the courtyard. plan, though dren to play in, throughout much of the planning the two sections of the no business center, nor an internal network of PeopleMov- park were reversed; with World Showcase serving as the en- ers that Walt had envisioned (though many Disney fans trance of the park while Future World would be in the rear. would welcome their addition!). The body of water known today as World Showcase Lagoon However, it does embody many of the ideals and concepts would have separated the two halves, with a walkway simi- that Walt Disney hoped to share with the world. Concepts lar to today’s promenade connecting the two sections. such as community, education, innovation, ecology, sci- Another alternate concept originally planned for World ence, world cultures, travel, and most of all, imagination. His Showcase involved the United States pavilion. At first, the ideas are still represented, just not quite in the way that he United States pavilion was not intended to be one of the intended. World Showcase pavilions. Rather, it was going to be a two- story structure, with an attraction on the upper level that Epcot may have opened without Walt’s guiding hand to Guests would pass under as they entered World Showcase. lead the way, but his spirit still remains as its driving force. The thinking behind the concept was that it would be a Epcot still flourishes today, drawing millions of visitors ev- compromise between two concerns; namely that having ery year. The park continues to amaze, entertain, and edu- the pavilion be inline with the others would seem disre- cate, and while it may not have ended up being Walt’s Uto- spectful, while setting it apart may appear arrogant to pia, it’s turned out to be the next best thing.

47 · Celebrations The Hall of Flags By Lori Elias

ne of the most striking (but arguably unappreci- interesting trivia regarding the Stars and Stripes: first, Oated) facets of Walt Disney World is that the magic President Lincoln would not allow the removal of any never truly ends, regardless of where one might be in a stars after Confederate states seceded from the Union. park or resort. Take for example the walk-through of Also, in 1889, a 39-star flag was constructed by a few flag- : what could have been a short, uninter- makers who mistakenly believed that the Dakota Terri- esting jaunt through hallways of grey stone is instead a tory would enter the Union as one combined state. This promenade past a showcase of magnificent mosaics re- did not happen, and thus this flag was never adopted; laying the princess’s story, from her pitiful beginnings instead, in 1890, a flag with 43 stars, including North and as the scullery maid of two wretched stepsisters to that South Dakota (November 2, 1889), Montana (November 8, priceless moment when she steps into her glass slipper. 1889), Washington (November 11, 1889) and (July 3, A similar experience can be found at Epcot in the Amer- 1890) was created as the official flag of the United States. ican Adventure Theater. After enjoying a magnificent But not every flag in the American Adventure Theater performance by the Voices of Liberty, Guests move on to is as easily discernible for any Guests without a degree in see a moving Animatronic show depicting some of the American history! Let’s take a look at some of the more heroes and highlights of the history of the United States. intriguing standards gracing the walls of the Corridor But rather than simply moving up an unexceptional es- of Flags. calator, they are treated to a stirring and colorful journey One of the most colorful is the British royal standard; created by the Corridor of Flags, with banners and stan- it is also is one of the first flags that Guests see hanging dards spanning the nation’s past, from its earliest days as over the escalator as they enter the corridor. It features a a collection of colonies to its immersion as a young but quadrant with four lions, three gold and one red, each on proud world leader. a field of the opposite color; a blue quadrant with three While it would literally require a full-length book to de- fleurs de lis; another blue field with a gold harp; and red tail every piece found in the Corridor of Flags, we’ll take a and blue lions and a white horse on red and gold. This look at some of the more intriguing flags encountered in was the flag used by the ruler of Britain both at home this very colorful thoroughfare. and in its foreign colonies; ergo, this version of the royal standard would have been present in the American colo- Our Journey Begins nies until it became an independent nation. As Guests enter the Corridor of Flags, they might rec- Behind it is the flag of the Dutch East India Company. ognize a number of national flags as those that have had While not having territorial hold in the United States territorial presence on American soil, such as France, per se, they certainly had merchandising control on this Sweden, Mexico, Spain’s vibrant red Cross of Burgundy, side of Atlantic as trade in furs, sugar, and, tragically, and of course the Union Jack of Great Britain (now the African slaves, would have a profound influence on the United Kingdom), as well as those that have flown over formation of the new American colonies. Their flag dis- the United States, with the addition of each state add- plays their initials of “GWC” (Geoctroyeerde Westindische ing another white star to the blue field. There is some Compagnie).

48 · Celebrations Next to the British royal standard is a flag that looks sachusetts, in October 1774, this Colonial American flag like a combination of the current American and British utilized the current English flag in order to acknowledge flags, with thirteen red and white stripes and the Union that they accepted their position as British citizens who Jack in the corner. This is the Continental Colors, which were loyal to the crown, but in turn, as citizens, would not served as an unofficial American flag beginning in De- accept the violation of their rights via the king’s increas- cember 1775, when it was raised on the Alfred, a 30-gun ingly prohibitive acts being levied against them. man-of-war built in Philadelphia and used by the Conti- When Guests see the flag emblazoned with a green nental Navy. It remained as the Alfred’s standard until tree and “Appeal to Heaven,” they might understandably 1777, when it was replaced by the earliest version of the mistake this figure for the famed “Liberty Tree.” This Stars and Stripes. Though a number of flag designs were flag is actually a precursor to the Liberty Tree flag, and popular in the colonies at this time, it was this flag that instead features a New England pine tree, as selected by George Washington ordered flown to celebrate the birth General Washington. He used this flag for six schooners of the Continental Army on January 1, 1776, on Prospect which he personally owned and equipped, choosing this Hill in Somerville, Massachusetts. It is for this reason particular tree as a symbol of unity among the colonies, that the flag is sometimes called the Somerville Flag, with the words asking God for help in achieving their as well as the Union, Grand Union, Great Union and quest for freedom. This flag would eventually go on to Continental flag. be used by the Massachusetts Navy, but with the Liberty This is only one of a number of Colonial-era banners Tree replacing the pine. found in the Corridor of Flags. Another is right next to Incidentally, what exactly is the Liberty Tree, which it: the Colonial Union Jack of 1701, consisting of the Brit- graced a number of other Colonial-era banners? It was an ish flag with a white shield in the center, used by North elm tree planted in 1646 on Boston’s Orange Street, the only American governors’ ships. Nearby on the wall is the road at the time that led out of the city limits. Bostonians Taunton flag, with its red field and Union Jack (collec- and the Sons of Liberty used the tree as a mustering point tively called the British Red Ensign flag, otherwise known to protest acts by the British government…that is, until as Queen Anne’s flag – an ensign flag is recognized as a Redcoats chopped it down in 1775. But the citizenry of other national flag when it is used at sea), proclaiming “Liberty cities were so inspired by this emblem of freedom and in- and Union” in white letters. First raised in Taunton, Mas- dependence that they christened their own “Liberty Trees”

Photo © Tim Devine 49 · Celebrations throughout the colonies. In fact, the Disney film Johnny Tre- widely thought to have been with him throughout his bat- main, released in 1957, opened with a song dedicated to the tles, and can be seen in two portraits of the general: George famed landmark: “Liberty Tree,” with music by Washington at the Battle of Princeton by Charles Wilson and lyrics by Tom Blackburn: Peale and The Surrender of Yorktown by Louis Nicolael van Plant the seed in our homeland, boys, Blarenberghe. The original flag is now in the possession of Let it grow where all can see. the Valley Forge Historical Society, having been donated by Feed it with our devotion, boys, Washington’s family. Call it the Liberty Tree. Another unique flag that only history buffs might recog- It’s a tall old tree and a strong old tree, nize is the green and blue flag of the Green Mountain Boys. And we are the Sons, yes, we are the Sons, These unlikely heroes got their start under the leadership The Sons of Liberty! of Ethan Allen in 1770, as a group of colonists whose only Next to this flag is the first Navy Jack, sporting thirteen goal was to stop local authorities from commandeering lo- alternating red and white stripes under a rattlesnake – an cal farms; depending on whose version of the story is told, American timber rattlesnake, to be precise, a common sym- the Green Mountain Boys were either criminals or saviors. bol of Colonial resistance toward the crown – and the warn- They ultimately were recruited to assist in capturing Fort ing, “Don’t Tread on Me.” Its first Ticonderoga, which had been raising was by the Continental held by the British, joining forces Navy in 1775. Though it has long with Benedict Arnold (in his pre- been replaced, it was flown in traitor days) and his militia. This 1975 and 1976 by order of the Sec- battle would prove to be one of retary of the Navy in honor of most pivotal of the Revolution- the bicentennial of the United ary War. States, and in 1977 it was decreed The Green Mountain Boys by the same office that the naval were also present at the Battle ship with the longest term of ac- of Bennington (August 1777), tive service would have the hon- which brings us to another flag: or of displaying the flag. The ship the Bennington flag, similar in currently brandishing this flag is structure to the standard Amer- the USS Blue Ridge. ican flag, but with the number The more commonly recog- “76” joining thirteen stars in the nized version of this flag, with blue square. There is controversy a coiled snake on a yellow field, among historians as to whether can also be found in the Corridor. the flag was actually used in the This is referred to as the Gads- battle for which it was named, or den flag, so named for Colonel in reality designed a few decades Christopher Gadsden, who after seeing the design present- later. What is certain is that it has several unique features: ed the idea to South Carolina’s Provincial Congress; it was se- the white stripes are the outermost stripes, rather than lected by Commodore Esek Hopkins, the commander of the the typical red; the blue field reaches down to border nine Continental Navy, to be flown on his own ship, the Alfred. stripes, rather than the standard seven stripes; and while Across the way is a dark blue flag with thirteen six-point- most America flags across history have displayed stars ed stars, obviously representing the thirteen colonies. This with five points, the Bennington stars have seven. was the personal flag of George Washington, also known as There is also uncertainty over the presence of the Alamo his Commander-in-Chief standard. While research is still flag – a red, white and green flag with “1824” prominently being done to this day on its exact purpose and history, it is displayed in the center – at the battle for which it was

50 · Celebrations named. The legendary fight between Mexico’s General California Republic. The design was eventually incorporat- Antonio Lopez de Santa occurred in 1836, and while ed into their state flag, and a replica of the original hangs some accounts state that this flag was indeed on the walls proudly in the American Adventure Theater! of the San Antonio mission, other historians maintain that Flags have even been created for particular causes. One the flag was designed later. It is generally agreed that the such flag on display in the Corridor of Flags is that of the year 1824 refers to the signing of the Mexican Constitution, , with its eagle, red and white streamers which allowed Texans virtually the same rights as those and thirteen stars on a blue field. In 1791, the first Secretary held by Americans; in the ensuing years, these rights were of the Treasury, Alexander Hamilton, suggested imposing gradually infringed upon by the Mexican government, so a tax on distilled spirits, the first internal tax of the new- Texans removed the emblem from the center of the Mexi- ly-independent United States of America, in order to pay can flag, replaced it with the year of the constitution’s rati- debt accumulated during the Revolutionary War. Farmers fication, and adopted it as their own. Likewise, the flag con- whose grain and corn crops were used to make whiskey, sidered the first official flag of the newly-formed Republic the most consumed of the local “distilled spirits,” and es- of Texas in 1836, is credited to Lorenzo de Zavala; its white pecially those who had joined the militia during the war, star, with the letters spelling the state’s name resting be- resented the tax, as it obviously encroached on their own tween its points, has never been definitively confirmed profits. Protests against the tax collectors frequently be- as to its origins, and no documented evidence (or original came violent, which peaked in July 1794, when 500 armed flag, for that matter) is still in existence. men attacked the regional tax inspector and burned his There is no debate, however, over the presence of anoth- home to the ground. In August, President Washington is- er battle flag hanging in the corridor: the Commodore Per- sued a command that the rebels end their attacks, mobi- ry flag. Bearing the words, “Don’t Give Up the Ship,” this flag lizing an army of 13,000 to enforce the decree. The rebellion was flown on Oliver Hazard Perry’s ship Lawrence in the was quashed, and the aggressors returned to their homes. Battle of Lake Erie (September 1813) during the War of 1812; What might be surprising is that one of the flags dis- the ship was named for naval hero Captain James Law- played in the corridor was never an official flag at all! The rence, who was mortally wounded after a battle with Brit- Centennial flag bears the stripes of the American flag, but ish forces outside of Boston. The words that were placed the stars are used to “spell out” the years 1776 and 1876, cele- on the flag were widely believed to be the last Lawrence brating the first hundred years of independence. This flag uttered before he succumbed to his wounds. features 81 stars, which clearly far surpasses the number One of the flags had a very short life-span: less than one of states at that time (or this time, for that matter); there month. In 1846, California was in a state of political unrest. were 38 states admitted to the Union at that time, and in While the region was Mexican territory, the vast major- fact, the “1776” does indeed use 38 stars. While it may not ity of the populace consisted of American settlers. With have official standing as a national flag, it has a very spe- rumors of war brewing, there was mistrust between the cial relationship to the American Adventure Theater, as people and the Mexican government, and of the govern- it was displayed prominently throughout the 1876 Phila- ments toward each other. On June 14, a small group of delphia Exhibition, the same exhibition that is featured in American soldiers “captured” the Mexican general Mariano the American Adventure Animatronic show. Vallejo in Sonoma in northern California; the irony of this Though the sojourn through the Corridor of Flags is is that Vallejo favored American statehood for Califor- rather short and certainly quick, a wealth of American nia, rather than Mexican rule. The soldiers then declared history can be found in its palette of colors. In those California an independent republic, painting a gold griz- fleeting moments between the Voices of Liberty and the zly bear and red star on a white sheet as their flag. After American Adventure Animatronic show, take a moment a handful of short battles taking place over the next few to indulge in some vexillology (that’s the study of flags, for weeks, California was officially taken from Mexico on July you wordsmiths!), and soak in the majesty and artistry of 7, and the American flag replaced that of the short-lived the Corridor of Flags.

Photo © Tim Devine 51 · Celebrations 52 · Celebrations Photo © Tim Foster lthough Walt Disney World is known for many things have also resulted in the Jumbo Turkey Leg having a cult A– attractions, memories, and magic, just to name a few following. There are magnets, air fresheners, and even dog – did you know that food is one of the most popular? Many toys that immortalize this classic Disney snack. Although it people think that a meal at Walt Disney World consists of can be a bit messy, most Guest’s say that it’s a small price to a quick burger and some fries (and yes, there are plenty of pay for this hunk of turkey goodness. those to be had if you are so inclined), but just as many peo- Mickey Pretzel: Pretzels are a delicious salty treat that ple aren’t aware that Walt Disney World is known for hav- can be found pretty much anywhere. In fact, there’s a fair- ing remarkable restaurants featuring spectacular cuisine ly good chance that you ate one at the airport when you prepared by world-renowned chefs. Victoria and Albert’s landed in Orlando. The ones served in Disney have a special has even been honored with the coveted AAA Five Diamond twist (pun intended) as they share the likeness of the most Award. As you might expect though, those meals can be famous mouse of all: Mickey. These pretzels are delicious quite costly. But the great thing about Walt Disney World and should not be overlooked. You can also buy them with is that you don’t always have to dish out a ton of money to cheese sauce for some extra goodness. enjoy some great food. In fact, some of the snacks found Mickey Rice Krispie Treat: In case you’ve never had a throughout the parks, resorts, and Disney Springs are quite Rice Krispie treat before, it’s a combination of Rice Krisp- tasty…and they’ll definitely make you think twice about ies cereal, marshmallows, and a little bit of butter. The ones judging food before you take a bite. served at WDW are extra special for two reasons: firstly, they Throughout this article, we’ll take you on a journey that are in the shape of Mickey Mouse’s head and secondly, they will flood your senses and make you think of Disney snacks are typically covered in chocolate (the ears anyway!). But in a whole new light. Some of that’s just the classic version. these snacks may be famil- You’ll find many of different iar to you, while some may varieties throughout the be new. But either way, the parks. (A great place to find world of snacks is out there, them is in the Confectionery waiting for you. on Main Street U.S.A.) Some come completely covered in The Classics chocolate and others come The definition of a clas- coated in candy. One is even sic is something that can made plain with no embel- stand the test of time. There lishments. You can even find are classic novels, TV shows, a super-sized version! You’ll films, and even classic Disney also find specially-themed attractions that have been treats throughout the year, around for as long as most people can remember. (Haunted celebrating everything from holidays to movies and every- Mansion and anyone?). But there thing in between. The Mickey Rice Krispie treat is a delicious are also classic snacks; snacks that have comforted people snack at WDW, but maybe the reason it’s so popular is be- for years and even decades. Some of them have become so cause it’s one that you can take home. If you buy one of these entrenched into the Disney experiences that most Guests at a gift shop, they come packaged in plastic and are perfect simply can’t consider their visit complete unless they enjoy for taking home, just in case you need to have a little taste one. Here are some of the best-known classics: of Disney later on. Turkey Leg: For those that have eaten the Jumbo Turkey Dole Whip: The Dole Whip is perhaps the most popular Leg at WDW, it needs no explanation. To those who haven’t Disney snack of all, despite the fact that it can only be found tried it, it’s a giant turkey leg from a tom (a male turkey) in a few locations. You can buy this citrusy concoction at that is full of juicy goodness. Unlike your typical sweet treat, Aloha Isle in behind the Magic Carpets of this salty snack has a distinctive smoky flavor. The Jumbo Aladdin, and the new Pineapple Lanai at Disney’s Polynesian Turkey Leg has been served at WDW since the 1980s, with Village Resort. (If you haven’t been to the Magic Kingdom in nearly 1.6 million of them being sold each year. The sales a while, you may expect to find Aloha Isle across from the

53 · Celebrations , but this is now the home of Sun- have a fun souvenir to take home. When you do get home, shine Terrace, which serves up its own assortment of tropi- you’ll find that the bucket is great for storing things. (Such cal refreshments. But don’t be alarmed; Aloha Isle is still as Disney pins – I know this from experience!) While you can there, off to the right of Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room.) always get a bucket of classic salty popcorn, you can find But what is a Dole Whip? It’s a creamy soft-serve delight lots of other flavors as well. If you go to the popcorn cart with a unique and delightfully tangy pineapple taste. For outside of Journey Into Imagination in Epcot, you can find an extra special treat, try a Pineapple Float that combines gourmet popcorn flavors such as cheddar cheese, buffalo the pineapple soft-serve with real pineapple juice. The Dole bleu cheese, and sour cream and chive. Just something to Whip was created by the Dole Food Company in 1986, and think about for all of you gourmets out there! (Also, Disney people have been thanking them ever since. Like the Turkey recently announced that refillable popcorn buckets will be Leg, this snack has found its way into popular culture. In coming to WDW. As of this writing, no one is 100% sure what addition to the usual memorabilia (it’s interesting to know this entails, but from the little information that has been that these snacks have become such a part of Disney lore released, word is you’ll be able to buy your souvenir popcorn that you can actually collect snack-themed souvenirs!), the bucket with popcorn and can refill it as many times as you Dole Whip was also the mascot for two honorary teams in want during that day for a discounted price. Stay tuned as this year’s (2016) March Magic Competition: The Adventure- this new system is rolled out for more details!) land Dole Whip (Disneyland) and The Adventureland Swirl Churro: The Churro is one of the most famous desserts (WDW). The annual March Magic Tournament coincides at WDW, and well it should be. They’re made out of a fried with college basketball’s pastry dough coated March Madness tourna- in a layer of cinnamon ment, and pits 32 Disney sugar. The churro ac- attractions against each tually became quite other to compete for the popular in Disneyland title of ultimate Disney at- and was brought over traction. Even though the to Orlando. Curiously, Dole Whip isn’t an attrac- despite their popular- tion per se (though many ity, they’re surprisingly say it IS a wild ride!), the cit- hard to find. A favorite rusy confection is so popu- location is the Fron- lar that they were added as tierland Churro Cart, honorary participants. since it not only offers Popcorn: Popcorn is a up delicious churros, classic snack, not just in but gives you the op- WDW, but throughout most of the world. That should come portunity to enjoy them in a rootin’ tootin’ atmosphere as no surprise since it’s been around for more than 5,000 that will greatly improve your churro eating experience. So, years! Popcorn has recently become synonymous with what are you waiting for? Saddle on up for this Disney clas- movie theaters and entertainment, but when you step sic! into WDW, it becomes a part of the whole Disney experi- Mickey Bar: If you’ve never eaten a Mickey Ice Cream Bar, ence. You’ll find plenty of Guests snacking on popcorn while you may wonder what all the fuss is about, and why it has walking down Main Street U.S.A. or waiting for a parade or become so famous and is considered a “must-do” for many fireworks show. And why not? It’s delicious and salty, easy WDW Guests. Those who have had the pleasure of eating to share, and best of all; it’s the snack that keeps on giving. one will say that it’s because the Mickey Bar is ubiquitous If you choose to splurge a little bit, you can opt to eat your to Disney, and rightly so. But be careful, when talking about popcorn out of a collectible bucket (or other fun shapes the Mickey Bar, you’ll need to be fairly specific when de- like Cinderella’s Carriage, Zero’s doghouse, and even one of scribing your favorite, because there have been many dif- the Seven Dwarf’s minecarts). The bucket is yours to keep, ferent variations throughout the years. If you visited Walt so in addition to your delicious popcorn snack, you’ll also Disney World many many years ago, you may remember

54 · Celebrations the Good Humor Mickey Parade Bars. These were in the cream (one of 16 flavors – which you can also enjoy on their shape of Mickey Mouse’s head, mostly consisting of vanilla own) as well as your favorite sauce (chocolate or raspberry). ice cream but with chocolate ice cream for the eyes, nose, For research purposes in putting this article together (yes, and mouth. Additionally, the ears were dipped in chocolate. the demands of writing an article on Disney can be strenu- Eventually, these were phased out of the park (though if you ous indeed!), we selected cinnamon, caramelized apple and waxed nostalgic you could buy versions of these bars from crumble crunch ice cream with chocolate sauce. The sand- your local ice cream truck), and were replaced by the Nestle wich is then assembled right before your eyes and finished Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar. These bars are made up of off in a press to seal the edges, creating a unique ice cream vanilla ice cream covered in a creamy chocolate coating, all sandwich unlike anything you’ve tried before. Because of its in the shape of a Mickey head. They are absolutely delicious large size, it’s perfect for sharing, and it’s the perfect snack to and have become a veritable snacking staple at Disney, with enjoy as you relax in the elegant ambiance of the France pa- over 3 million served every year. And of course, this is an- vilion. other snack that has become a prominent figure in pop cul- Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich: Also found at L’Artisan ture and merchandising. That’s right. The love of the Mickey des Glaces, this creamy treat is made out of ice cream and a Premium Ice Cream Bar has lead to t-shirts, magnets, and macaron. Originally, the sandwich came in one flavor, choco- even air fresheners (yep, you can enjoy that chocolaty aro- late. Today however, they also offer seasonal varieties. For ma anytime you’d like!). Even though you might not be able example, on our last trip (around Halloween), we got to en- to get a “Mickey Bar’ outside of WDW, that doesn’t mean you joy pumpkin ice cream sandwiched between two pumpkin can’t celebrate your love macarons. (shown here) of it everywhere you go. Even though it might be small, it’s not a snack to The Cool be overlooked. The ice This may come as a cream is smooth and bit of s surprise, but oc- creamy, while the maca- casionally it can be quite ron is crispy on the out- warm in Florida. I know, side and wonderfully soft I know, that’s hard to be- on the inside. Once again, lieve. We’ve talked about the joy of eating it while many ways to beat the you enjoy the beauty of heat in the past, but for the France pavilion is now we’re going to talk what really makes this about one of our favor- treat extra special. There ites, ice cream! Refresh- is nothing better than ing cold treats can be found pretty much everywhere in enjoying a macaron ice cream sandwich while gazing at the Walt Disney World. In addition to the famed Mickey Ice shops, fountains, and gardens, not to mention the replica of Cream Bar we just talked about, you can find delectable the Eiffel Tower. ice cream treats in restaurants and snack carts located Kaki Gori: Unlike the familiar ice cream sandwich, this throughout the parks and resorts. There are so many won- particular snack is new to many people. I myself wasn’t derful “cool” snacks that it’s impossible to list them all (much aware of what it was until quite recently. Kaki Gori is a Japa- less try them all), but we’ll give you a short list of some of our nese flavored ice treat, similar to a snow cone, that can be favorites. Keep cool! found at the Kabuki Cafe. It’s a combination of shaved ice Croque Glace: This unique treat (opposite) can be found and flavored syrups. The flavors include strawberry, mel- at L’Artisan des Glaces in Epcot’s France Pavilion. It’s a warm on, cherry, mikan (tangerine), and even rainbow…which brioche ice cream sandwich that combines delicacies from is a combination of flavors for those Guests who can’t just two eateries: ice cream from L’Artisan des Glaces and brioche choose one. Additionally, you can add extra toppings such as from Les Halles Boulangerie & Patisserie. You can customize sweet milk, sweet strawberry, or sweet cherry. Because Kaki your sandwich by first selecting your preferred flavor of ice Gori offers a generous portion size, there’s no better treat

Photos © Tim Foster 55 · Celebrations for walking around World Showcase on a hot day. ter toppings; a banana; a cinnamon spice cupcake; an angel Goofy Glacier: This snack is quite peculiar as it is one food cupcake; chocolate syrup; marshmallow crème; a can that is not commonly found in the Disney parks. You’ll most of whipped cream (yes, say it with me, “a whole can?!”); a likely have to visit Disney Springs to get your hands on one brownie; a candy bar; chocolate cookies with filling; toasted of these. Trust me though, it’s worth it. Located at Goofy’s almonds; white and dark chocolate shavings; jellied orange Candy Company (its home base per se), the Goofy Glacier is slices; milk chocolate and peanut butter chip morsels; choc- a cross between a slushy and an ICEE…with a little bit of olate and rainbow sprinkles; and finally, maraschino cher- Disney magic thrown in. It comes in eight flavors: Coca Cola ries. To top it off, this is all served in a kitchen sink (literally, Cooler, Razzle Dazzle Pink, Orange You Happy Orange, Goofy there’s even a faucet!). Don’t try to tackle this treat on your Glacier Apple, Brrr-Banana, Gwarshly Berry Blue, Tropical own though. It’s meant for four to six people to devour to- Mango, and Pucker Purple. You are encouraged to mix fla- gether. Are you up for the challenge? vors to really make it your own. For me, the Disney magic is really on display during the sampling process. That’s right, The Miscellaneous you’re allowed to sample any (or all!) of the flavors before We’ve covered some classic snacks and even some cold you make your final decision. In fact, Cast Members will snacks, but there’s still so much more that Walt Disney even encourage you to try World has to offer. So, here flavors again if you’re not are some other scrumptious sure exactly what you want. treats that don’t necessarily Your samples are poured into fit into one of the above cat- little paper cups, and they egories. are actually quite generous Candy Apples: Although in size. If you try all of the fla- most people may not realize vors, you’ve probably already it, Walt Disney World is known eaten half of an entire Gla- for their ingenious Candy Ap- cier already! One thing is for ples that feature tons of dif- sure though; you’ll walk out ferent toppings, designs, and of Goofy’s Candy Company even characters. Whether it satisfied with your Goofy be classic characters (Mickey Glacier. If you can’t get to Dis- and Minnie), favorite charac- ney Springs, you can also find ters (Olaf and the Cheshire them at a few Disney resorts Cat), or even characters from such as Disney’s Boardwalk new Disney movies (Dory and Inn and Villas. Also, they can Nemo) you’ll have a ton of op- be bought at Big Top Treats in tions. Also, depending on what the Magic Kingdom. Be aware time of year it is, you might though, not all of the flavors even be able to find seasonal are available at each location. Candy Apples such as a snow- Kitchen Sink: Simply man or a pumpkin. Designs put, the Kitchen Sink Sundae is a massive dessert that vary, so check different places often! You can find these can- one should not take lightly. In other words, this snack is dy apples all over Disney, most notably at the Confection- not meant for the faint of heart (well, stomach). It can be ery on Main Street U.S.A., where you can actually watch the found at the Beaches and Cream Soda Shop at Disney’s apples being made! But there are plenty of other places that Beach Club Resort. This sundae combines scoops of vanilla, specialize in this unique treat, such as Goofy’s Candy Com- chocolate, mint chocolate chip, coffee, and strawberry ice pany in Disney Springs, and Disney’s Candy Cauldron, which cream and, according to the official Disney website, every is also a part of Disney Springs. However, if you’re looking topping Beaches and Cream has. That breaks down into for a little something different, head over to Zuri’s Sweets fudge, butterscotch, pineapple, strawberry, and peanut but- Shop in Animal Kingdom. They make animal-themed Candy

56 · Celebrations Apples (and other various treats) that are exclusive to that looking at the people as they stream down Main Street U.S.A., store, including monkeys, elephants, and even cotton top embarking on their day of happiness and excitement at the tamarins. However, if all that Candy Apple fun isn’t enough Magic Kingdom. for you, can personalize your own candy apple at Goofy’s Cupcakes: Disney cupcakes have been around for ages, Candy Company at Disney Springs. and are quickly becoming one of the most popular snacks Mickey Waffles: Many will disagree that this classic in Walt Disney World (and possibly worthy of a future ar- food should be considered a snack, since it’s more properly ticle!). They can be found pretty much anywhere, and come regarded as a breakfast item. But the Mickey Waffle has in a dizzying array of flavors. Some are even designed to become almost as ubiquitous to Disney as the Mickey Bar resemble favorite Disney characters. (Our favorite was a (it is in Mickey’s likeness of course) and is enjoyed by more BB-8 cupcake that we enjoyed while watching the new Star than 3.6 million people visiting Florida and California each Wars: A Galactic Spectacular fireworks show at Disney’s Hol- year. In case you didn’t know, the secret ingredient that lywood Studios.) Cupcakes are used to celebrate just about makes them so special is malted flour. Mickey Waffles can every major holiday and season at Disney. After all, nothing be found pretty much anywhere in Disney, from character makes it feel more like Christmas than when you’re stroll- breakfasts, quick service locations in the parks, and resort ing down the middle of Main Street U.S.A with a snowman food courts. Not all Mickey Waffles are the same though. cupcake in your hand as the twinkling Dreamlights of Different varieties to be found in- Cinderella Castle glisten in the dis- clude chocolate chip (Wilderness tance. Cupcakes can be found any- Lodge), chocolate (Crystal Palace, where, particularly at the resort Magic Kingdom), multigrain (The bakeries and food courts. We came Wave, Contemporary Resort), and across a lemon blueberry cupcake even gluten free (many locations at the Gasparilla Grill at the Grand including the Crystal Palace, Tusker Floridian Resort & Spa that literally House-Animal Kingdom, and Holly- made our knees buckle! Also, if you wood and Vine-Hollywood Studios). ever get the chance, treat yourself You can even find a larger version to a cupcake from Be Our Guest res- of the classic Mickey Waffle at such taurant in the New . To locations as the Intermissions Food put it simply, they’re exquisite. Plus, Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports if you order the Master’s Cupcake, Resort. Whether you consider it a it will give you a chance to try the breakfast item or a snack, it’s an un- Grey Stuff. Trust us, it’s delicious! deniable Disney classic, and one you We hope that we’ve given you a simply can’t pass up! taste of all of the great snacks that Fresh Fruit Waffle Sandwich are just waiting to be found at Walt with Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: Although this snack Disney World. No matter what you prefer, there is definitely has gone through a name change, most will remember it as something for you. Whether it’s a classic, savory snack like the Nutella Waffle. In case you haven’t heard of Nutella, it’s a a Jumbo Turkey Leg, something cool and refreshing like a chocolate and hazelnut spread that is sweeping the world Goofy Glacier, or even a Sorcerer Mickey Candy Apple (yep, and has managed to find its way into the Magic Kingdom via they really exist, complete with marshmallow ears!), you the Fresh Fruit Waffle Sandwich with Chocolate Hazelnut have no end of choices throughout the parks and resorts. As Spread found at Sleepy Hollow in Liberty Square. The waffle the entire resort keeps growing, so will it’s array of fabulous, is huge and comes covered with a good amount of Nutella tempting treats. Let’s just hope that they’re as delicious as along with bananas, strawberries, and blueberries on the they are now. But, knowing Disney, they’ll be more scrump- top. This is just one of the many varieties of waffles that tiously delicious than ever before. We look to forward to Sleepy Hollow offers, along with funnel cakes. If you grab this what Disney has to offer in the future, but that doesn’t waffle early enough in the morning, you’ll be able to enjoy mean we can’t take a moment to enjoy the moment. So, Dis- your treat while basking in the glory of Cinderella Castle and ney Snackateers, raise your Mickey Bars high. Cheers!

Photos © Tim Foster 57 · Celebrations 58 · Celebrations The Continuing Legacy of The Hall of Presidents by Chris Smith

“I fear my country will expect too much from me. I walk on untrodden ground, there is scarcely any part of my conduct which may not hereafter be drawn into precedent.” – George Washington

any Walt Disney World attractions have evolved throughout the years, whether it be the addition Mof new special effects, a reimagined queue, or even a complete refurbishment that offers Guests an all new experience. While change and progress are constant themes throughout Walt Disney World, there is one attraction that has perhaps seen more changes over the years than any other. That would be the Hall of Presidents in the Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Square, for the election of a new president brings about changes to the stirring, patriotic show inside. On November 8, 2016, Republican nominee Donald J. Trump, Sr. was elected as the 45th President of the United States, defeating Democratic nominee Hillary Diane Rodham Clinton in what will certainly be remembered as one of the most hotly contested elections in U.S. history. With President Trump’s inauguration set for January 20, 2017, now is the perfect time to revisit The Hall of Presidents, which opened along with the rest of the Magic Kingdom on October 1, 1971. While the attraction is perhaps most famous for its 43 Audio-Animatronic versions of the U.S. Presidents from the past and present, it most importantly celebrates the meaning and the legacy of the Presidential office itself. As The Hall of Presidents makes clear, the President of the United States is bigger than any one person, and includes a legacy of more than two centuries that continues today. So join us as we take a big bite of apple pie, place our hand over our hearts, and wave the American flag high as we go on a journey to discover the legacy of The Hall of Presidents.

“I know that there is a God, and that he hates injustice and slavery. And I see the storm coming, I know his hand is in it. If he has a place of work for me, and I think he has, I believe I am ready. I am nothing, but truth is everything. And with God’s help I shall not fail.” – Abraham Lincoln

Photo © Tim Foster 59 · Celebrations The story of The Hall of Presidents begins long before Dis- size figures of three of our founding fathers, Thomas Jef- ney even contemplated a park in Florida. In fact, the real ferson, Ben Franklin, and John Adams discussing various as- origins of the attraction can be traced back fifteen years pects of the Declaration. The show would have culminated earlier to the patriotism of Walt Disney himself. Walt Disney in an actual signing of the Declaration of Independence. loved the United States, and was a big fan of American his- The second show would have been known as “The Hall of tory in general and the Presidents of the United States spe- Presidents.” That kind of has a familiar ring to it, don’t you cifically. With that passion in mind, and long before plans think? The Hall of Presidents would have been a “mighty for either Liberty Square or Walt Disney World were even on cavalcade of American History,” as seen from the perspec- the drawing board, Walt Disney and his team of Imagineers tive of the Presidents of the United States. This early version developed plans for “a typical American street in the Revolu- would have included President George Washington and his tionary War era” known as Liberty Street. immediate successors standing in succession, as a stirring The conceptual plans for Liberty Street featured a quint narrative described the development of our Nation’s heri- cobblestone street lined with a variety of shops that would tage. The attraction would climax with a dramatic view of typically be found in a Colonial-Era thoroughfare, including the thirty-four Presidents who had held the office up to a glassmaker, an apothecary, and a cabinet-maker. At the that time. Importantly, even the earliest iteration of The end of this street Guests would have encountered Liberty Hall of Presidents focused on the substantial challenges Square, with a grand Liberty Tree serving as the area’s visual faced by our Nation and the reactions of the Presidents in centerpiece (this should certainly sound familiar). facing those challenges. The true star of Liberty Street would have been Liberty Hall, As is the case with most Disney-related concepts, the origi- which would have been home to not one, but two patriotic nal plans for Liberty Street and The Hall of Presidents con- shows. The first would have been known as “The Hall of The tinued to morph and evolve over time. Strangely enough, Declaration of Independence,” and would have featured life- early iterations of President-based attraction contemplat-

60 · Celebrations ed the utilization of wax figures. However, Walt’s vision for Notwithstanding these issues, the World’s Fair was a tre- the attraction demanded more life-like representations of mendous step forward in Audio-Animatronic technology. the Presidents, including the ability to actually talk (which In the decades that followed, Disney’s Imagineers continued certainly would not work with wax figures). Unfortunately, to hone and revise this technology, creating such legendary the substantial cost, not to mention the technological de- attractions as The Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Ca- mands that were far ahead of their time, introduced sub- ribbean (two of my personal favorites). stantial roadblocks for Walt and his team that were diffi- When The Walt Disney Company moved forward with its cult, if not impossible, to overcome. massive Florida project, the old Liberty Street idea was taken off of the Imagineering shelf and added to the park’s The New York World’s Fair plans in the form of Liberty Square in the Magic Kingdom. The answer to these roadblocks came in the form of the Disney also had the technological capabilities to finally 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair. The Fair provided Walt move forward with Walt’s dream of a fully functional Hall with the opportunity to utilize corporate sponsorships to of President’s attraction. fund the technological advancements needed to make the attraction possible. For the purposes of the 1964-1965 New Exterior Façade and Queue York World’s Fair, The Hall of Presidents was re-named One The Hall of Presidents is located in the heart of Liberty Nation Under God. However, major sponsors such as Coca- Square, and was an opening day attraction for the Magic Cola and Union Carbide balked at the costs needed for the Kingdom on October 1, 1971. The atmosphere for the at- sponsorship of the attraction. Walt realized that he needed traction begins as soon as Guests cross the Liberty Square something big to draw in sponsors: an actual life-like Audio- bridge from the Central Hub, where they effectively enter Animatronic representation of one of the U.S. Presidents a new world of early colonial America on the brink of the who could actually talk and move. As Walt always had great American Revolution. admiration for the 16th President, it was an easy decision to The atmosphere is extremely immersive with visually stun- focus his Imagineers’ efforts on Abraham Lincoln. ning representations of Federal and Georgian architecture Noted Disney Imagineers Blaine Gibson, Roger Broggie, and found throughout, and the sounds of fife and drum music Bob Gurr worked diligently on the Lincoln Audio-Anima- playing in the background. The grand building that’s home tronic. However, as the Fair was fast approaching, Walt and to the Hall of Presidents ties in well with this theming, with his Imagineers were forced to greatly reduce the attraction a breathtaking architectural style reminiscent of Philadel- in scope, and focus solely upon the Lincoln performance. phia’s Independence Hall. Fortunately for Walt (and the rest of us who enjoy The Hall Guests can find numerous fun details even before stepping of Presidents today), the State of Illinois agreed to sponsor inside the attraction. In particular, play close attention to the shortened attraction, which was famously rebranded the building’s windows. One window includes a rifle, no as Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln. When it premiered in doubt waiting until needed by its patriotic owner. An adja- the summer of 1964, it became one of the most popular at- cent window includes a tribute to “Paul Revere’s Last Ride” tractions in all of the World’s Fair. During the attraction, an by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, as two lanterns are dis- Audio-Animatronic Lincoln would stand and address the played (“one if by land, two if by sea”). amazed audience, who in many cases would sit in stunned Upon passing through the entrance doors, Guests enter a silence in response to the astounding performance they grand rotunda. Take some time to explore this elaborate had just witnessed. Guest holding area, as numerous beautiful paintings of our Although Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln was a tremen- Nation’s leaders and authentic Presidential artifacts adorn dous success, the original version of “Honest Abe” displayed the walls, including: at the 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair did not always work • Dental instruments (a “steel scaler set”) of the nation’s first to perfection. When an electrical current spike occurred, President, George Washington. the Audio-Animatronic Lincoln would flail its arms wildly • A gold and porcelain pocket watch owned by John Adams. and slam itself down in a chair. This obviously left onlook- • Chess pieces that were given to President James Monroe ers confused, concerned, and in some cases, frightened. while he was governor of Virginia. The gift was from Mon-

Photo © Tim Devine 61 · Celebrations roe’s friend and neighbor Thomas Jefferson. The theater’s lights then dim as a captivating film tells the • Abraham Lincoln’s leather portfolio, pencil holder, and his history of United States of America to the gathered audi- copy of The Works of Lord Byron ence. Famed actor serves as the narrator • Teddy Roosevelt’s riding boots and riding crop. of the attraction. Previous iterations of the attraction fea- • Hoover’s fishing license and badge (President Hoover often tured narrations by members of the Disney Company and went fishing to relieve stress during the Great Depression). later . • The cowboy boots worn by George W. Bush during his in- The film itself is wide ranging, from the nation’s initial auguration. struggles, the Declaration of Independence, the American • Various gowns worn by First Ladies. Revolution, and the Civil War. The attraction’s arguable star, Abraham Lincoln (in Audio-Animatronic form), then deliv- The Attraction ers a stirring rendition of the Gettysburg address. “My fellow citizens, no event could have filled me with greater anxi- Following Lincoln’s speech, a curtain rises to reveal one of ety then that notification on the 14th day of April 1789, that you had the most dramatic and awe-inspiring scenes of any Disney selected me to head our nation. But it is with the confidence of my attraction: a large 100-foot wide stage featuring every Unit- fellow citizens that I took an oath, 35 simple words that have been ed States President, represented in incredible life-like Ani- repeated by every American President throughout history. As long matronic form. It is this scene that stirs patriotic emotion as that oath is taken, and solemnly fulfilled, the American Dream in almost everyone. will endure.” – George Washington Every President is recognized in a very patriotic “roll-call.” When the next showing of The Hall of Presidents is ready, Pay close attention during this portion of the attraction, Guests enter a massive 700-seat theatre. When the curtain as the Presidents will nod, tap their foot, shift their weight, rises, a set of three enormous projection screens are re- and in some cases even whisper to one another. In addition vealed. One interesting fact is that the screen system was to these extremely detailed mannerisms, words are actu- actually first developed by , who was notably the ally spoken by Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, and very first animator of Mickey Mouse. . The Audio-Animatronic figures themselves

62 · Celebrations are intricately detailed. Stories are told of Guests actually A New Addition believing that some of the Presidents are real people! “The American dream is as old as our founding, but as timeless The overarching story of The Hall of Presidents focuses on as our hopes. It is born every day in the heart of every child, who the office of President of the United States, as opposed to wakes up in a land of limitless possibilities, in a country where ‘We any specific person serving in that position. Notably, George the people’ means all the people. We may come from different plac- Washington’s act of leaving his office after two terms as he es and believe in different things, but what makes us Americans refused to let the American people make him “King” of the is a shared spirit. A spirit of courage and determination, of honor United States is emphasized. The attraction also attempts and generosity. It is a spirit grounded in the generations that have to emphasize that any one of “us” could become President. gone before us, but open to the unimaginable discoveries and pos- Finally, the importance of Presidential leadership in times sibilities on the horizon that lies ahead. Let us enjoy it, cherish it, of national strife is emphasized, with references to Frank- defend it, and pass it on to our children as the bright and beautiful lin Delano Roosevelt during the Great Depression; Lyndon blessing it is. This enduring American Dream” – Barack Obama Johnson following JFK’s assassination; Ronald Reagan fol- Like the United States itself, The Hall of Presidents is ever lowing the Challenger tragedy; Bill Clinton following the evolving. When each new President is elected, the attrac- Oklahoma City bombings; and George W. Bush in the after- tion is temporary closed so that a new Audio-Animatronic math of the tragic September 11th attacks. figure can be constructed and incorporated into the show. This year’s election is no different. The Disney Company an- Bringing the Presidents to Life nounced that The Hall of Presidents is scheduled to close The creative genius behind the life-like representations of on January 17, 2017 so that a new Audio-Animatronic figure the Presidents is none other than famed Imagineer Blaine for President Trump can be constructed and incorporated Gibson. Gibson spent approximately 45 years with The Walt into the attraction. The Hall of Presidents is scheduled to re- Disney Company before open on June 30, 2017. ultimately retiring in To this day, the Hall 1983. Gibson’s resume of Presidents is a cel- includes creating the ebration of the office “Partners” statue, a life- of the President of size bronze statue of the United States and Walt Disney and Mickey the challenges that Mouse standing hand- we, as a Nation, have in-hand located in the faced and overcome Central Hub of the Magic throughout our histo- Kingdom. He later crated ry. It is also a continu- the “Sharing the Magic” ing tribute to Walt statue, a life-size bronze Disney himself, as it statue of Walt’s brother is a representation of Roy O. Disney and Minnie both the technologi- Mouse. Gibson’s signifi- cal advancement he cant accomplishments earned him the distinction of being once dreamed of and the patriotism he often exhibited. named a Disney Legend in 1993, an award that recognizes The legacy of The Hall of Presidents embodies all of these individuals who have made “an extraordinary and integral concepts: inspiration, hope, response to adversity, evolution contribution to The Walt Disney Company.” and advancement, and patriotism. So the next time you are For The Hall of Presidents, Gibson directed the creation in Liberty Square, take the time to experience the Hall of of every U.S. President up to George W. Bush in 2001. When Presidents. Lest you think the attraction might be one you’d Barack Obama was added to the attraction, Gibson’s proté- pass by, make sure you see The Muppets Present…Great gé Valerie Edwards performed the sculpting work (Gibson Moment In American History, prior to entering the Hall of was 90 years old at the time). Gibson unfortunately passed Presidents. If Sam Eagle can’t convince you to see the attrac- away in 2015 at the age of 97. tion…nobody can!

Photos © Tim Devine 63 · Celebrations ROY & WALT DISNEY Brothers, Partners, & Friends by Kevin Carpenter

alt Disney stood ner- ecutives. Walt and Roy were, Wvously in the doorway above all else, brothers. And, to his brother’s office. It was for decades, they had shared all Roy Disney’s 71st birthday, yet that brotherhood entailed — the mood was anything but camaraderie, bickering, and an celebratory. For months, the enduring love and respect for brothers had barely spoken, each other. icy silence replacing their usual That peace pipe was long good-natured banter. By this overdue. time, in 1964, the pair had been Born eight years apart in working together for more Chicago, Illinois, Roy and Walt than forty years and quarrels worked together from a young were far from uncommon. But age. Whether it was tending this seemed altogether more the family farm in Marceline serious and, perhaps, even ir- or delivering newspapers for reconcilable. their father in Kansas City, the Walt, though, was not ready pair learned the value of disci- to admit defeat. He strode pline and teamwork early on. into Roy’s office and presented his estranged partner with As the older brother, though, it was Roy who shouldered the a most unusual gift — a Native American peace pipe. One heavier workload. small, richly symbolic gesture closed a rift that had seemed Nowhere was this clearer than in Marceline, Missouri. For a million miles wide. The brothers called a truce, smoked Walt, the small town provided an idyllic childhood, one of the pipe, and shared a laugh for the first time in forever. carefree days roaming the farm and playing with Ruth, his Looking back, the dispute itself seems so irrelevant now. younger sister. Roy, on the other hand, worked arduously. Roy, the consummate businessman, had been pushing to Not long after moving to Missouri, the two oldest Disney bring the Imagineers of Walt’s personally-owned WED En- brothers — Herbert and Raymond — ran off back to Chica- terprises into the larger Disney studio fold. He understand- go, leaving ever-reliable Roy to assist his father in the never- ably felt that such a merger would stave off any whiff of im- ending chores on the farm. propriety or conflict of interest between the two entities. After the family left Marceline in 1910, Walt followed in his Walt, on the other hand, cherished the autonomy and cul- brother’s footsteps through a litany of odd jobs. Roy’s time ture of WED and virulently opposed the transaction. So the as a “news butcher” on railroad trips — selling refreshments two men withdrew into their respective corners. to passengers — inspired Walt to seek similar employment. It is damaging enough for any business to have its two Likewise, Roy’s enlistment in the United States Navy dur- top bosses locked in dispute, but Walt Disney Productions ing World War I lit a fire within Walt to serve his country. was no ordinary company and these were no ordinary ex- Although the Navy turned the younger Disney away for be-

64 · Celebrations ing underage, Walt did join the Red Cross Ambulance Corps built on mutual trust and sheer grit. They were determined during the waning days of the Great War. to succeed, and succeed they did. It wasn’t long before their At war’s end, the brothers returned stateside and each technological advances, from adding sound to animation in quickly settled into work that would forever shape his pro- “Steamboat Willie” to adding to the “Flowers and fessional life. Roy joined First National Bank of Kansas City, Trees” , began to attract attention. the perfect spot to learn the ins and outs of finance and As the Disney studio flourished with the success of Mick- business. Walt, meanwhile, honed his artistic skills at Kan- ey Mouse and the Silly Symphonies, Walt and Roy settled sas City’s Film Ad Company. into their respective roles as studio executives. Each was Unfortunately, Roy’s promising career in banking fell vic- uniquely talented and, together, theirs was a masterful tim to the tuberculosis he had contracted in the military. collaboration. Walt, the innovative mastermind, boasted When it flared up, he left his job and sought convalescence an almost-limitless vision. There could be no denying his in a variety of government sanatoriums, finally landing in genius. He brought sheer enthusiasm — and a bit of reck- the dry climes of Los Angeles. Even while battling this crip- less abandon — to the development of new studio projects. pling sickness, though, Roy never stopped looking out for So it fell to Roy, the somewhat cautious financial wizard, to his little brother. He often sent Walt blank checks with the occasionally rein Walt in, keeping him on the straight and authorization to fill them out for any amount up to $30. narrow. Gifted in his own right, it was Roy who handled the Walt sheepishly admitted years later that he always cashed business decisions and essentially kept the studio running those checks for $30 exactly. on a day-to-day basis. Fate would bring the Disney brothers back together Perhaps Roy’s devotion to his younger brother was most again in 1923. When Walt’s Laugh-O-Grams studio in Kansas evident when, in 1926, he suggested that The Disney Broth- City failed, he once again followed in his big brother’s foot- ers Cartoon Studio should instead bear the single name of steps. He packed his belongings and headed to the mecca Walt Disney. Recognizing the enormity of Walt’s contribu- of cinematic success — Los Angeles. Laugh-O-Grams may tions and believing the brand should focus on the creative not have worked out, but the studio’s final creation, “Alice’s lead, Roy demurred gracefully. Wonderland,” provided Walt with an ideal proof-of concept All the while, the two brothers were roommates as well to shop around. When New York distributor Margaret Win- as business partners. Having thrown their proverbial lots kler showed strong interest, Walt raced to share the good together, they rented a single room not far from the studio. news with Roy. Their meager incomes later allowed them to move up to a rented apartment on Kingswell Avenue, where they lived Off to Hollywood until their respective marriages. The younger Disney barged into his brother’s room at Roy took the plunge first, marrying longtime sweetheart the Sawtelle Veterans Home near Los Angeles and excitedly Edna Francis in April 1925. Walt followed suit several months laid out his plans for a new animation studio. But, this time, later when he and Lillian Bounds tied the knot in July of Walt realized he could not go it alone. Instead, he rallied Roy the same year. After the newlyweds lived in separate small to leave the hospital and go on this Hollywood adventure apartments for a year, the two couples decided to join forc- with him. Walt later explained, “Roy had helped me and I es and build prefab homes next door to each other on Lyric wanted Roy and I to be partners.” Thus was born The Disney Avenue at the bottom of the Los Feliz hills. Brothers Cartoon Studio. With their business growing ever more profitable, the Happily, the studio jumped out to a strong start, boast- brothers found themselves investing long hours at the stu- ing a contract in hand with a legitimate distributor before dio. Roy was a bit more conservative in his work schedule, even opening the doors. But life in the animation industry but Walt jumped in with both feet. In fact, his mother-in- meant surviving paycheck-to-paycheck. Even though they law soon moved in with the couple to keep Lilly company produced viable and successful animated shorts, the pay- during her long nights alone while Walt worked. The stress ments from distributors did little more than cover costs. of sudden fame, mounting pressures, and burning the can- The only certainty was that the Disney brothers would dle at both ends could not help but take its toll. not give up…or give in. Their partnership — the marriage of As a result, Walt suffered a nervous breakdown in 1931 Walt’s unbridled creativity and Roy’s tactical acumen — was and agreed to travel with Lilly to the East Coast to recuper-

65 · Celebrations ate. Few would have thought it possible for Walt Disney to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs proved a smashing suc- step away from his studio for even a short length of time, cess, earning $8 million in the years following its premiere. but he had unfailing trust in Roy. He knew the studio was The 1940s, though, brought a shift in fortune for Walt Dis- safe in his brother’s hands. ney Productions. Between an acrimonious animators’ strike In fact, inasmuch as Walt earned the lion’s share of credit in 1941 and closed international markets during World War for the studio’s mounting success, there is no telling what II, the studio found itself on suddenly perilous financial would have happened without Roy’s watchful eye. While footing. As such, its output dramatically changed to better Walt saw a world of endless possibilities, Roy dealt with the control costs and weather the storm. Gone were the artis- practicalities of keeping the studio afloat. His behind-the- tically (and financially) daring features, replaced by safer scenes contributions may have seemed secondary to Walt’s government contracts and packaged full-length animation. lovable showmanship, but Roy was no silent partner. It was Once the war ended, Walt longed for a return to ambitious his shrewd business knowledge that gave Walt the free- features. Roy, on the other hand, needed some convincing. dom to create. Years later, Walt reminisced that he probably Reports differ on whether Roy’s reluctance stemmed from would have ended up in jail — for bouncing studio checks dissatisfaction with the films under discussion or a general — if not for his brother’s gentle stewardship. aversion to resuming these lengthier productions. Never- theless, Walt won out and the 1950s saw a resumption of Returned and Reinvigorated classic Disney features. Afterwards, Roy laughingly noted, When Walt returned to the studio, business returned “Walt always had his way around here.” Walt could not help to normal, but it did nothing to calm the fires of ambition but agree: “Roy has done a lot of things against his better within him. Walt was the demanding boss — holding his judgment, because he felt that I wanted to do it.” employees to the same exacting standards he had for him- self. Excellence was the expectation, so there were few ac- Beyond the Films: Making Dreams Come True complishments that merited praise, at least in Walt’s eyes. When he proposed the idea for Disneyland, however, that He was, however, much less stingy with his criticism. sentiment was pushed to its limit. Roy understandably In counterpoint, Roy — quite unlike the stereotypical viewed a Disney-operated as the riskiest cold and calculating businessman — was jovial and open of ventures, one that threatened to undermine all the hard with his praise and gratitude. He had a calming presence, work done to stabilize the studio in recent years. But Walt’s and a quick sense of humor that put employees at ease. case for Disneyland was persuasive. Both brothers recog- As soon as the studio established itself in one form, Walt’s nized the “peaks and valleys” nature of the movie business, mind was already racing ahead to what must come next. with constant film production the only way to sustain con- Once animated shorts had been mastered with Mickey sistent cash flow. What if Disneyland could end that cycle Mouse and the Silly Symphonies, Walt approached Roy with by providing a year-round source of income, while also mar- his most daring plan yet — an animated feature film. Noth- keting the Disney brand in an entirely new way? ing like this had ever been done before in Hollywood, leav- This was the kind of argument that made sense to Roy. ing Roy with the sinking feeling that maybe Walt had finally He withdrew his objections and threw his full support be- bitten off more than he could chew. hind Walt’s dream. Together, they crafted the brilliant plan It was a difficult time at the studio, with endless over- to partner with a television network, providing a weekly time for the animators and incredible stress for the Dis- program in return for substantial investment in the Dis- ney brothers. Walt was consumed with the creative side neyland concept. of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, but Roy equally had Unfortunately, the staggering cost of investing in Dis- his hands full securing the necessary loans and financing neyland scared off the two biggest networks, CBS and for such an unprecedented venture. At one point, the banks NBC. That left only ABC to negotiate with — and, there, Roy would lend no more until they could see the film’s progress. found a receptive ear. As a relative newcomer in television, So impressed by this preview, they lifted financial restric- ABC needed to make a splash against its heavyweight com- tions and allowed Disney to finish the film. As would often petition and agreed to join forces with Disney, no matter be the case, the biggest risks begat astonishing rewards. the cost. This proved a wise decision, as both Disneyland

66 · Celebrations the show and the park, succeeded beyond anyone’s wildest Roy at his side, just like always. Walt’s passing on December imagination. Although the Disney-ABC partnership would 15, 1966 was mourned far and wide. At the Disney studio, the end badly a few years later, neither Walt’s television celeb- loss of their namesake, coupled with Roy’s imminent retire- rity nor Disneyland would have been possible without this ment, threatened to plunge the company into instability. collaboration. After a period of mourning and regrouping, Roy announced As Disneyland continued to grow ever more popular, he would stay on indefinitely. With Walt gone, Roy felt he Roy knew the time had finally come to right an old wrong owed it to his brother to finish his final project. — WED Enterprises. Created by Walt in 1952 (then known as Walt Disney Incorporated), WED’s Imagineers handled The Continuation of Walt’s Dream much of the planning and development for his Anaheim Roy, so long accustomed to working behind the scenes, theme park. The Disney chief enjoyed the independence gave the studio a figure to rally around, but he never lost that WED provided, but, to Roy, the whole arrangement sight of his own strengths. “We are blessed with a president seemed fraught with peril. A stockholder challenge over who doesn’t think he knows how to make pictures and who this potential conflict of interest had been narrowly won, doesn’t try to stick his two cents in.” But, on one point, he but Roy feared the damage more accusations might inflict. added those two cents quite adamantly. In a final tribute, When Roy approached his brother with a proposal for what was to be known as Disney World would instead be the studio to formally acquire WED Enterprises, Walt flatly christened Walt Disney World. This was Walt’s dream and it refused. What followed was months of anguish and bitter should be named after him. feelings that only came to an end over a shared peace pipe. By late October 1971, the park had dazzled the world with Both Walt and Roy finally realized that their partnership its special world premiere. After years of construction and meant so much more than any petty business squabble, weeks of worry about attendance, Roy knew his work on and Walt acquiesced to his brother’s request. Walt Disney World was finished. He returned home to Cali- True to form, Walt’s exceptionally creative mind contin- fornia, finally ready for his retirement. ued to overflow with ideas, but one stood above them all. But it would be just two months before Roy himself fell EPCOT — the Experimental Prototype Community of To- ill — shortly before attending a Christmas candlelight ser- morrow. Once again, Roy’s reaction to this new project was vice at Disneyland. He suffered a stroke later that night and lukewarm. But the brothers put their heads together and passed away the next day, December 20th. Hauntingly, it came up with a plan amenable to both — building a “Disney- almost seems as if he held on just long enough to see his land East” in Florida where a new theme park could bring in brother’s dream, Walt Disney World, become a reality. the necessary funds for Walt to pursue his city of the future. In the December 22nd edition of the Orlando Sentinel, re- Dubbed The Florida Project, these plans would be Walt’s porter Charlie Wadsworth lauded the older Disney. “It was magnum opus. Fittingly, when the time came for the big an- Roy Disney’s guidance and leadership that brought Walt nouncement of Disney’s plans in Florida, both Walt and Roy Disney World to its opening. He was completely dedicated were seated front and center for the press conference. Roy to building the dreams of his brother Walt. They say a little had finally stepped out from backstage. of Roy left when Walt died in 1966 of cancer. But not much Unfortunately, this new position at the forefront was one could have left. He was the keeper of the flame and had to that Roy would have to get used to — and quickly. Not feeling be the curator of the spirit that Walt Disney created.” well, Walt entered the hospital in November 1966 and would Indeed, that glimmering spectacle that is Walt Disney never leave. Up until the last, he had his mind firmly fixed on World was dedicated by Roy as a tribute to his younger the Florida Project. Lying in his hospital bed, he studied the brother — but, perhaps, it is a tribute to them both. Their room’s ceiling, transforming the perforated acoustical tiles partnership was unrivaled in history and their legacies are into an overhead map of Disney World in his mind’s eye. His so closely intertwined as to be inseparable. Just like they final hours were spent mentally planning the various roads were. One of the earliest Disney Studio employees, Wilfred and Monorail routes that would criss-cross the Orlando Jackson, said it best: “Everybody thinks of Walt Disney as one property. person. He was really two people, he was Walt Disney and The following morning, Walt Disney passed away with Roy Disney.”

67 · Celebrations hen we last parted ways, my companion and I getting a haircut and always rushed straight to the Wwere at the Roy Disney statue near the flagpole barbershop! in the heart of Main Street U.S.A.’s Town Square. Off in As we were looking at the firehouse, we overheard a the distance stood our next destination, Cinderella Cas- couple talking about the fact that there was a signifi- tle, for we had reservations at Cinderella’s Royal Table. cant little detail about the firehouse. Unfortunately for Unfortunately, one of the downsides of exploring and us, they just keep going and we didn’t hear what this se- adventuring as much as we do is that the feet some- cret detail was! So now we are looking everywhere, try- times give out on us just when we need them most. ing to figure out what they meant. We knew that there This of course was one of those times. (Is it me or does it was a light in a window at the Disneyland firehouse, seem like we are always hungry or tired?) but we didn’t notice a notable one here. I looked for In any event, I was wonder- Walt Disney’s signature some- ing aloud how we could get where. Still nothing. Perhaps to Cinderella Castle while ex- a dedication plaque? Nope. pending the least amount of What in the world could it be? energy, when my companion As we were about to give up, responded with, “You know I happened to notice the fire- there are vehicles going up house sign above the second and down Main Street U.S.A., story windows, which simply right?“ read “Engine Co. 71.” Of course! And sure enough, I That was it! We instantly noticed the horseless carriage realized that the “71” stood for heading down Main Street to- the year that the Magic King- ward the Castle. Knowing that dom opened; a date that was we had missed our ride, we forever immortalized in this nonetheless looked around to out of the way corner in Town see if we could find some oth- Square. er means of conveyance. As we When wandering the world, were looking around, we no- especially off the beaten path, ticed a sign near the Harmony we’ve learned that the magic Barber Shop and walked over to get a closer look. is often in the details, but sometimes we need to step As it so happens, it offered a one-way ride to Cinder- back and take in the entire picture. The reason is that ella Castle aboard a fire engine. Unfortunately, there some of the greatest surprises are sitting there right didn’t seem to be a fire engine on the way, so instead before our eyes, and sometimes it’s easy to look right we decided to wander around a bit. Curiously, it was past them if we’re not paying attention (or, to put it an- then that we noticed the firehouse, which made sense other way, paying too much attention to the tiniest of now that we had seen the sign. It was curious though things). because I don’t know if I had ever noticed the firehouse Until next time, this is Ray, and you’ve been Wander- before. It could be that I’m always more interested in ing the World!

68 · Celebrations Number of Disney parks around the world that have a Liberty 1 Square. Florida’s Magic Kingdom is the only park that can make that claim. Weight, in tons, of the 130-year-old live oak tree that was moved 38 to Liberty Square and is now known as the Liberty Tree. Number of lanterns hanging in the Liberty Tree, representing 13 the original 13 colonies. Street number of the Hall of Presidents. The number 1787 symbolizes the style of architecture popular at the time, and all of the buildings in Liberty Square are so numbered. For the buildings with only two digits in the street number, just put 18 in front of the number to find the year of that style of architecture. Number of lanterns that can be found in one of the upper 2 windows by the Hall of Presidents, representing Paul Revere’s infamous “two if by sea” warning of the impending British invasion. Number of screens (each measuring 30 x 18 feet) that are used 3 to tell the story of the birth and growth of the United States in the Hall of Presidents. Audio-Animatronic haunts in the Haunted Mansion, even 109 though we are told that 999 “live” there. Well, not exactly 109… Number of these Animatronic figures that are actually of 2 living beings, those being the caretaker and his dog.

69 · Celebrations The Spaceship Earth Hidden Mickey By Tim Foster One day I found myself pouring through some old video tapes (remember those?) that I had recorded of old Disney commercials and TV specials. They always brought back fond childhood memories of visiting Walt Disney World. In one of the early promotional videos for Epcot, one of the concluding shots was that of Mickey standing atop Spaceship Earth, waving to the audience. I had always wondered how he had gotten up there, and have since found out that the actress who had played the part, Elaine Gezzi, had made her way out through a special doorway that has since gone into disuse. Gezzi was no stranger to heights, as she had also flown from the top of Cinderella Castle as . (According to Elaine, it wasn’t the height of Spaceship Earth that was the frightening part; it was the helicopter that was continually buzzing her as she was being filmed!). It was a nostalgic moment indeed, but it reminded me that I had recently heard tales of a grand Hidden Mickey at Spaceship Earth, and so I decided to set out on a quest to discover it for myself.

I wasn’t sure how new this Hidden Mickey was, and my first reaction was that it was somehow connected to the video of Mickey standing atop the giant sphere. Unfortunately, upon viewing the promo video again, I didn’t notice a Hidden Mickey anywhere (the figure of Mickey Mouse on top of the sphere wasn’t exactly hidden of course!). However, as I leafed through some later photographs I had taken, I remembered that a giant Mickey hand holding a wand (styled after his Sorcerers Apprentice persona) was added to Spaceship Earth in honor of the Millennium celebration. Could this be the Hidden Mickey I had heard of? I decided no, for even though it was Mickey’s actual hand, it didn’t fit the criteria of the class three-circle Mickey that we’ve all come to know. Not only that, the stories I had heard spoke of this Hidden Mickey as being grander and on a much larger scale. With that in mind, another idea popped into my head.

I remembered that the original layout of the Disney- MGM Studios (as it was then known) featured a giant Hidden Mickey that could only be seen from the air or from a park map. The circular courtyard that was home to Hollywood Boulevard served as Mickey’s “face,” while Echo Lake and the buildings near the Animation Courtyard served as the “ears.” Despite the fact that subsequent expansions and other changes have greatly altered this classic Mickey, I wondered if the layout of Epcot was similarly designed so as to form a giant Hidden Mickey. Alas, it would be quite a stretch to find anything resembling a Hidden Mickey on the Epcot map, even the opening day map, and certainly Spaceship Earth couldn’t be seen as forming the portion that would be Mickey’s face. And so my quest continued…

70 · Celebrations Even though I had heard that the Hidden Mickey in question was of gigantic proportions, I wondered if a clue could be found in the attraction itself. I boarded my time machine and headed off on my tour of the history of communication, and soon discovered the familiar Hidden Mickeys that I was well acquainted with; including the scrolls in the Islamic scholars scene, the artist’s paint rings in the Renaissance room, and even the references to early Mickey Mouse shorts in the theater marquee section. Of course these were all tiny in comparison to what I was envisioning (albeit cleverly hidden), but I held out hope that perhaps I would find something in the giant planetarium at the top of the sphere. After all, Mickey had been standing just on the other side of the grand “ceiling,” so the placement of a giant Hidden Mickey at that location seemed logical.

However, before I entered the massive planetarium, I passed by the scene depicting a family watching the historic moon landing. I’ve always enjoyed this scene; as to me it always symbolized mankind’s first steps into the next great frontier, and represented not just an advance in communication, but of exploration and discovery. I had always focused intently on the TV screen, but this time I thought I should look about the room for other clues. Much to my surprise, I noticed an old Mousetrap game behind the sofa… an old board game in which players slowly constructed a mousetrap (seemingly designed by a slightly crazed inventor) that eventually trapped one of the player’s mice. Even though the connection seemed unintentional, I started to wonder if the Hidden Mickey I was seeking could be found elsewhere in Epcot, since the scene the game was in represented a collective leap in innovation and imagination that was the core philosophy of Future World.

But where to start? I began to explore the other pavilions, and eventually ended up in what seemed to be the unlikeliest of places, the Land pavilion. I decided to take a flight on Soarin’, and I was dazzled by the new show, which took me on a thrilling tour of Africa, China, France, and Australia among other places. But as our journey was nearing its conclusion, I saw that we were flying over Spaceship Earth at night, and I began to wonder…could this be it? Sure enough, a dazzling array of blossoming fireworks filled the sky, and suddenly, there they were. Two perfect plumes exploding in majestic colors on either side of the giant sphere of Spaceship Earth, forming the largest Hidden Mickey I had ever seen. I glided back toward the ground, grinning with excitement…so much so that I nearly forgot to collect my Mickey ears that our flight attendant Patrick had reminded me to put underneath my seat…

71 · Celebrations How Much Do You Know About Disney Geography? by Tim Foster

1. What is the elevation of the Main Street 6. Which of these continents is seen the most in Railroad Station? Soarin’ Around the World? a. 15 feet a. Africa b. 108 feet b. Australia c. 212 feet c. Europe d. Sea level d. South America

2. What is the tallest mountain in Walt Disney 7. Which of these countries is not represented by World? the members of the Three Caballeros? a. The Forbidden Mountain a. Brazil b. Big Thunder Mountain b. Portugal c. Space Mountain c. Mexico d.  d. United States

3. Which of the four Walt Disney World parks is 8. Which country’s doll can be seen holding a the furthest south? Disney character toy in “it’s a small world”? a. Epcot a. France b. Magic Kingdom b. Mexico c. Disney’s Hollywood Studios c. China d. Disney’s Animal Kingdom d. Germany

4. Which of these continents is not represented 9. What was the first country to play host to a in World Showcase? Disney park outside the United States? a. South America a. China b. Asia b. France c. Europe c. Japan d. North America d. England

5. Which of these worldwide Disney parks is the 10. Where is the geographic center of Walt Disney most northern? World? a.  a. Cinderella Castle b. Shanghai Disney b. In an undeveloped area c. Tokyo Disney c. The inventors’ circle in Epcot d. Disneyland d. In the middle of Bay Lake

72 · Celebrations 11. In what state was Walt Disney born? 14. In what city are the studios located? a. Missouri a. Los Angeles b. Illinois b. Emeryville c. Kansas c. Echo Lake d. California d. Burbank

12. As can be seen in Epcot attractions like 15. Which of these World Showcase pavilion O’ Canada and Spaceship Earth, the United nations is the only one to share a border with States and Canada share several geographic any of its World Showcase companions? points of interest. Which of these is not a. Norway among them? b. Italy a. The Aleutian Islands c. Morocco b. The Great Lakes d. Germany c. The Rocky Mountains d. Niagara Falls Quiz Answers 13. Which one of these countries did Walt Disney 1. B 6. C 11. B visit on his El Grupo goodwill trip in 1941? 2. A 7. B 12. A a. Italy b. Portugal 3. C 8. D 13. D c. New Zealand 4. A 9. B 14. B d. Argentina 5. A 10. B 15. D

ANSWERS HIDE ‘n’ SEEK 1. The corner piece is shorter 3. 18,000 KIDS KORNER (pages 74-77) A 2. The window panes are gone 4. 1,600 R 3. The arrow is longer 5. The Tempo Bay Resort WHERE AM I? 4. The tower is shorter 6. The monorail was originally intended 1. Spaceship Earth T D E R 5. The tree is bigger to travel straight through the middle 2. The Haunted Mansion I E N M A 6. The eagle is a different color of the atrium, but the engineers 3. Journey Into Imagination T A S D E F 7. “HISTORIC” is misspelled soon realized that that could cause 4. Ellen’s Energy Adventure 8. The hook is gone the entire building to shake. That 5. The Great Movie Ride O N T E R I T 9. The coil is shorter led to the decision to reposition the 6. Gran Fiesta Tour W A I A L I K I 10. The groove in the panel is gone monorail to its current location off E N T L D I G to the side, where the track could be SHIP AHOY! FIND THE DIFFERENCE BONUS firmly anchored to the ground. 1. Wilderness Lodge/Contemporary/Fort R Y T E A G ANSWER Wilderness Launch Boat A E The Hall of Presidents SECRET SYMBOLS 2. The Ferry Boat that takes Guests to R 1. The Sand Bar pool side snack stand the Magic Kingdom BRAIN BUSTERS WORD SCRAMBLE 2. Monorail escalator symbol 3. Peter Pan’s Flight Hero’s Duty 1. SWIMMING POOL 3. Game Station sign 4. The Liberty Square Riverboat 2. BAY LAKE 4. Contempo Cafe sign 5. Min & Bill’s Dockside Diner at Disney’s FIND THE DIFFERENCE 3. SPLASH MOUNTAIN Hollywood Studios 4. CANADA WATERFALL WHERE AM I? 6. 5. FOUNTAIN 1. Skybridge to 6. KALI RIVER RAPIDS 2. Outer Rim sign 7. RIVERS OF AMERICA 3. Interior floor balconies 8. ITS A SMALL WORLD 4. Chef Mickey’s sign 5. boat model MYSTERY QUEST (pages 78-79) 6. Detail from Grand Concourse mural TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE 7. Entryway to the Wave 1. 9 tons 8. Tie on the robe of the Sorcerer Mickey 2. 150 feet topiary near the resort pool areas

73 · Celebrations In what attractions would you find these characters? 1. The sleeping monk 2. The caretaker 3. Dr. Channing 4. Stupid Judy 5. The Tin Woodsman 6. Panchito Pistoles

Can you tell where you’ll find these different boats?

1 2

3 4

5 6

74 · Celebrations Use the clues to fill in the answers to the puzzle. When you’re done, the letters in the gray boxes will spell out the name of a new Disney character!

5.

2. 3. 7.

6.

1.

8.

4.

1. The home of the Twilight Zone 5. It can be a frozen place 2. She has a friend named Lottie 6. A red-haired princess 3. Dory’s whale shark friend 7. ’s wise friend 4. The bug princess 8. He likes to bounce

Answers on page 73 75 · Celebrations What is the name of the video game in which Wreck-It Ralph “gets” his medal?

Things are a bit of a mess over in Liberty Square. Can you find the ten differences in the photos below?

______

______

______

______

______

______

______

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______

BONUS QUESTION What is the building in the background of the photo?

76 · Celebrations See if you can unscramble these things you’d find at Disney that have to do with water!

1. GWINSMIM LOPO 2. YAB KEAL

3. ALSHSH UNTONAMI 4. DANACA LATERWAFL

5. NIFTAUNO 6. LIKA VERRI SPADIR

7. SIVERR FO CARMAEI 8. SIT A LALMS DROWL

Answers on page 73

In each issue, our Kids Korner columnist will answer questions that are too tough for the grown-ups! If you have a question for her, send it to: [email protected].

Which do you like better, the Hall bread! I always like a good slushy, and you of Presidents or the American can get them anywhere from China to Japan Adventure? and lots of places in between. I especially like Gosh, that’s a tough one! I think the the Japanese versions of sno-cones that you Animatronic presidents in the Hall of can get (cherry is my favorite!). But nothing Presidents are really neat...I especially like beats a good old dish of ice cream, and I watching them fidget and turn their heads always like to get some from France. My while they’re sitting down. But I’d have to say favorite flavor? Coco-white chocolate, the my favorite is the American Adventure. The best of both worlds! are amazing, and my favorite scene of all is when Ben Franklin and Mark What is your favorite scene in the Twain are on the Statue of Liberty. How cool new Soarin’ Around the World? would it be to stand up there??? This may sound silly, but even though we get to see the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, Where’s your favorite place in and even Spaceship Earth (which is actually World Showcase to get a cold REALLY cool), my favorite would be the snack? elephants in Africa! Not only are they fun to Hmmm, a cold snack...I guess that knocks watch, but you can actually smell the dirt and out my funnel cakes and Norwegian school grass as they run around beneath you!

77 · Celebrations How Much Do you Know About the Contemporary Resort? 1. When constructing the Contemporary Resort, the 250 wines are listed on the wine list itself, but how individual rooms were actually built off-site several many bottles are in the actual display? miles away and “slid” into the resort’s framework. How much did each room weigh? 5. When the initial planning was under way for Walt Disney World, the Contemporary Resort was always 2. The framework itself was constructed from 13 on the drawing board, conceived to be an aesthetic A-frame steel trusses. When completed, they formed extension of Tomorrowland. However, the “Contem- the basic structure into which the individual rooms porary” was not the original name for the resort. where placed. How tall was the actual frame? What was it originally intended to be called?

3. The centerpiece of the resort’s Grand Concourse is 6. One of the best things about the Contemporary is the giant 90-foot mural designed by legendary Dis- that it’s the only resort to have the monorail pass ney artist Mary Blair. How many hand-painted tiles straight through the interior. Guests can board the were made to create the mural? monorail via the 4th floor escalator leading to the boarding area. However, the monorail was originally 4. In the resort’s signature restaurant, the California intended to be in a different location. Where was it Grille, you can find a spectacular wine bottle display. going to be?

Where can you find these cryptic inscriptions?

4 1 2 3

78 · Celebrations Can you figure out where these photos were taken? 3 1 2

4 5 6

8 7

Only the best explorers will be able to figure this one out...

Answers on page 73 79 · Celebrations Ten Things You Didn’t Know About Belle

1. The character of Belle was based on that of Beauty, the el- the studio’s earliest animated feature films throughout dest daughter and main character from the 1740 the 1930s and 1950s. Unfortunately, the task of bringing the La Belle et la Bête written by French novelist Gabrielle-Su- static plot and characters to life proved to be too daunt- zanne Barbot de Villeneuve. Contrary to what you might ing, and the sequence of Belle/Beauty being imprisoned think, “Belle” does not mean “Beauty” in French, which was deemed to be too intense for a family film. In 1989, Jef- would be in keeping with her inspirational namesake, but frey Katzenberg resurrected the concept, but reimagined instead means “beautiful.” (The French word for “beauty” is it as a Broadway-style musical. Like Ariel, he wanted Belle “beauté.”) In the original tale, her full name was “La belle to be a strong heroine with a feminist twist. enfant” (“The Beautiful Child”). 7. Paige O’Hara, who was performing on Broadway when she 2. Belle’s supervising animators were and heard about the upcoming film, insisted that her agent , who had both previously worked on the char- arrange for an audition for the title role. She ended up acter of Ariel. However, her persona was created by Linda auditioning for the role five times, competing against 500 Woolverton, who wrote the film’s screenplay. Inspiration other hopefuls. It wasn’t until after her fifth audition that for the character came from such varied sources as Nata- she received a call from Disney, on her birthday no less, in- lie Wood, Elizabeth Taylor, and Grace Kelly, though Wool- forming her that she had won the part. verton primarily based the character on Katharine Hep- 8. Belle will be seen in the upcoming live-action version of burn’s performance as Jo March in the film Little Women the animated classic, and will be portrayed by Emma Wat- (1933). son, best know for her role as Hermione Granger in the 3. Belle is often singled out as the strongest and most inde- Harry Potter film series. The film is set for release in pendent of the Disney Princesses, being among the first March of 2017. of a new generation of independent film heroines. She 9. Belle also made an appearance in the ABC drama has become so iconic that she is the only animated Once Upon a Time, where she was portrayed by heroine to have been nominated for the American Emilie de Ravin (best known for her roles as Tess Film Institute’s Greatest Heroes in Film ranking. Harding in Roswell and Claire Littleton on the ABC 4. She is the fifth of the Disney Princesses, and is drama Lost). generally regarded to be the oldest of 10. Belle can frequently be found in the France the princesses, albeit at the “ripe old pavilion in Epcot (often in the company of age” of 20! the Beast), and for a time you could see the 5. She is also the second Disney Beast’s rose encased in glass in one of the Princess not to be born of roy- pavilion’s shops. Though the rose was re- al descent (after Cinderella, moved during an extensive renovation, it would later follow can now be found in the Magic Kingdom suit). Whether by sheer co- at Bonjour! Village Gifts in Fantasyland, incidence or design, all three as well as the nearby Be Our Guest of the princesses who marry Restaurant. But if you look closely into royalty have worn opera in the France pavilion, you can still gloves! find a tribute to the beloved film 6. Walt Disney had made several at- in one of the books on the shelves; tempts to adapt the story into one of La Belle et la Bête.

Keepsake Image: “America the Beautiful”• Photo © Garry Rollins 80 · Celebrations Back Cover Photo © Mike Billick

“Our heritage and ideals, our code and standards – the things we live by and teach our children – are preserved or diminished by how freely we exchange ideas and feelings.” – Walt Disney