Tomorrowland light and power

The back stories of Walt Disney World are vast and seek to create a specific place in time and space. Tomorrowland is the “meeting place of the universe,” and comes complete with Hover-Burbs for easy living, The Tomorrowland Interplanetary Convention Center (currently home to the Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor, but preparing for the Space Collectibles Convention and Recreational Rocket Vehicle Show), the Tomorrowland Transit Authority for public transportation, and even a Chamber of Commerce.Like most Chambers, not every business in the area is affiliated with Tomorrowland’s Chamber. Chamber of Commerce exclusions include Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe, the Convention Center, and the Galactic Federation Prisoner Teleport Center. One business that is a part of the Chamber, but, less well known to the visiting public is the Tomorrowland Light and Power.In a metropolis the size of Tomorrowland a proper power facility is crucial. Unlike the Hover-Burbs, which stretch out beyond the boundaries of the physical Tomorrowland and require the use of or imaginations, Tomorrowland Light and Power has been placed right under our noses. We see it as we race towards our Space Mountain rocket ships, and walk out its front doors as we discuss how incredible or recent journey through Space Mountain was. That’s right, the power company actually houses the Tomorrowland Video Arcade.The hints are scattered about the facility, such as the power transformers of the future perched along the side of the building, near the passing by Tomorrowland Transit Authority. Additionally, when Stitch’s Supersonic Celebration is not running, the large video screen offers various advertisements for Tomorrowland, including the Chamber of Commerce which contains the Light and Power logo. This same logo can be seen on the backside of the Video Arcade building, along the walkway to Mickey’s Toontown Fair, on the loading dock door.I have said it before, and I will say it again and again, it is these back stories that are given life through minor details which create the full breadth of a world. By taking the time to create these elements Disney has made it easier to except the realities presented to us. By taking the time to notice these features we, as guests, begin to complete the emersion in the time and place we are visiting.

We can do it

George McGinnis deserves to be honored as a Disney Legend for Imagineering.

It has been too long since I have broached this subject, but with the announcement last week that this year’s Disney Legends awards are to be presented at the D23 Expo, now seems like the perfect time. Never has there been a more public stage for the awards that showcase individual achievement across the many fields of Disney entertainment.

The fact is that George McGinnis, like many of the greats that have wandered the various halls of Disney, did not resign himself to merely one job. Like many of the easily recognizable names before him, his work could, and can, be seen in the parks as well as on film. From robotic characters in Disney’s “The Black Hole,” to monorails, Horizons, and even the safari trucks of Kilimanjaro Safaris, he has moved guests both physically and emotionally. Even today, he still keeps in touch with the other fans out there sharing his stories and further creating Disney magic and inspiring new horizons.

Last year the Gazette presented a series of articles entitled Beyond Today, taking an in depth view into the worlds George McGinnis helped to create. You can read those articles in the Beyond Today section of the site. This year, the Main Street Gazette hopes this plea will be carried across the internet (in forums, podcasts, instant messages, email newsgroups, and tweets) and all the way to Disney’s front door. In addition to the Gazette articles, I have also begun a Facebook group, called George McGinnis: Disney Legend, to give all of those interested a place to come together. Within the group, feel free to share your stories, photographs, videos, links, and ideas of how we, as a community, can come together to achieve something for George McGinnis.

I hope you will join me as we look beyond today, through a world helped shaped by George McGinnis, and find a way to lift up a man who has given all of us so much to dream about.

An outstanding public rose garden

This week I had the always enlightening pleasure of sitting down with Lou Mongello of the WDW Radio Show to discuss more of the obscure legend and lore of Walt Disney World. This time we tackled the Plaza Swan Boats of the Magic Kingdom. As always, my recommendation is to listen to the WDW Radio Show this, and every week (even when I am not chatting away)!

The once home of the Plaza Swan Boats is now the residence of the Plaza Rose Garden. The Gazette has discussed the intricacies of the rose garden and its status as a public garden previously in this article. Today, I thought we would venture further down the path and stop to smell some of the gorgeous roses on display within the garden.

If anyone would like the names of the roses presented below, for your own garden or just out of curiosity, please let me know and I will be happy to oblige.

The wild frontier

Once upon a time, Crockett’s Tavern at Fort Wilderness was not only known for the spirits it served. In fact, I can remember the establishment serving up some of the best barbeque and home cooking available anywhere on Walt Disney World property. As for desserts, don’t even get me started on the Berry Patch Shortcake. These days however, the restaurant serves a small food items and is the stomping ground of parents and adults who need a few minutes to themselves.

What is often overlooked, now as it was when I was a child, are the furnishings found spread throughout the tavern. While an accurate account of what is there today, and what each piece represented, would be difficult, we are in luck. The original Crocket’s Tavern menu, otherwise known as the Crockett Almanac, gave guests a rundown of the items.

Look aroun an you’ll see many a fascinatin things that made Davy Crockett a legend.

Back by the door is a oil picture of ol Davy hisself.

Overhead is a birch bark canoe made by a 68 an a 72 year old Algonquin Indian up in Ottawa Canada. Its sealed with a mixture of sticky pine pitch an smelly bar grease.

Look in the case over by the bar ta see Ol Betsy, Davys rifle, an his famous coonskin hat.

Mike Finks hat an his brass cannon, both presents from Davy an Georgie Russel, are also there, along with a copy of Davys openin speech ta Congress.

Its easy ta spot the model of Mike Finks keelboat, the Gullywhumper, jes as it wuz in the great race down the Ohio an the mighty Mississip.

That’s President Andy Jackson behind the bar, with the 15 star, 15 stripe Star Spangled Banner draped aroun him. Georgie Russel is there ta the left, along with all kinds of maps, guns, an tomahawks.

Hangin on the post is the target where Davy shot one bullit right into the same hole as his first shot, ta win the match with Big Foot Mason.

Back in the corner is pieces remanescent of the Alamo, includin Jim Bowies knife next ta his picture, an Col. William B. Travis, an Davys song he wrote on the way ta the Alamo, ‘Farewell’.

Last is one big brown bar, not unlike the kind Davy tried ta grin down once.

Now while yer waiting fer yer food, walk around an enjoy these thing. Things that made Davy Crockett the King of the Wild Frontier.

To the enthusiasts that tour through restaurants looking for hidden treasures that rest in plain sight, Crockett’s Tavern is still a treasure trove. The likenesses of Davy and his company are those from the original Disneyland serials, and include not only Fess Parker, but Buddy Ebsen, Basil Ruysdael, and Kenneth Tobey as well.

Those seeking a more mainstream viewing location for memorabilia from Davy and Georgie’s adventures can also mosey on over to Frontierland in the Magic Kingdom. Where, spread throughout Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café, are objects and stories from the Wild Frontier, including Davy’s hat and Georgie’s tale of Big Foot Mason.

Donald Duck ...the War Hero

Donald Duck’s 75th birthday is this upcoming Tuesday. Hatching out of a successful role in the 1934 feature The Wise Little Hen, Donald has been quacking us up ever since. With his mix of emotional turmoil, from outright frenzied fury to one of the most warm hearts of any Disney character, and his inability to be understood, Donald has secured his place in the hearts of many.

25 years ago, for Donald’s 50th birthday, The Disneyana Collector ran an article entitled Donald Duck …the History Maker …the War Hero …the Award Winner. While the entire article is terrific, the section on Donald during World War II was particularly fascinating. Presented below, in honor of his upcoming birthday, is that unique section.

World War II served to reinforce Donald’s established stardom at the Disney Studios. He was drafted into the Army early in the war, his induction notice dated March 24, 1941.

On January 1, 1943, Disney Studios released one of its wartime cartoons, Der Fuehrer’s Face, starring Donald in Nutziland. The Studio received an Academy Award for Der Fuehrer’s Face, judged the best cartoon subject of 1942-43.

Of the more than two thousand emblems and insignia created by Disney artists for the various services during World War II, more than 400 of them featured Donald Duck, making him the number one Disney character favored by the armed forces. It seems that Donald was better suited to portray rage against the enemy than any other character. The designs were used on buttons, special flags, decals, wall plaques and lapel pins; some were made into patches to be worn by servicemen; and still others decorated ships, tanks, and the noses of Air Force bombers.

There came a sailor

Continuing a look into some of the faux histories of Walt Disney World, today we look at the legend of Stormalong Bay. A part of Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts, Stormalong Bay encompasses over three acres and includes areas such as Whirling Waters, Sinking Sands, Guppie Bay, The Flying Jib, and Snorkler Cove. Disney lists the official legend of Stormalong Bay as such, “A sailor named Stormalong ran his ship aground after being caught in a fierce storm, creating what is now Stormalong Bay. Today, the remains of the great vessel contain a water slide encompassed by the ship's mast which extends 45.7 metres into the air.”

For a bit more detail, and a more sea-worthy version of the tale, the map of Stormalong Bay includes the full legend:

Just a Little While Ago,
I Think It Be a Month Or So,

There Came a Sailor, Big As Say
The Tallest Main Mast Seen Today.

His Arms Were Wide As Barrel Hoops
With Octopis Tattoos Wound in Loops.

They Called The Salt Old Stormalong,
He’s Here a Moment, Then He’s Gone.

He Came In On a Great Nor-Easter’,
Sharin’ The Helm With The Ghostly Reaper,

Headin’ For Shore With No Belayin’
Waste They Layed Upon Their Way In,

Topplin’ Buildings, Plowin’ Up Sand,
They Came To Rest On This Here Land.

The Reaper Left. He Had Enough.
Old Stormie Said, “He’s Not So Tough!”

So All The Bays And Pools You See,
Were Made By Him; Were Dug By He.

The Fairytale Series

As much respect as I have for Disneyland, I must say, GO MAGIC!

An uplifiting and refreshing tea experience

Perhaps because I love tea and I am looking at creating my own tea container garden, or maybe because so often the plants that are used to create teas are not showered with the same love and devotion as a flowering plant like a rose or daffodil are, or it could be as simple as the tea garden in the United Kingdom is one of the most creative and gorgeous gardens of the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival. No matter the reason, this small corner of the United Kingdom pavilion, filled with tea cup and saucer containers is always at the top of my list of fantastic gardens from the festival.As the festival began winding down and closing up shop last weekend, so too is the Main Street Gazette’s series on some of the spectacular garden displays from this year’s event. Saving my favorite for last, the tea garden is made possible in part by Twinings. Throughout the garden the tea cup planters are filled to the brim and overflowing with plants that used to create specific teas, complete with tea bag labels hanging over the rim of the cups. Small plaques stand alongside each container giving the name of the tea, the plants included in the cup, and information on flavors, production of teas, and uses of each plant.While some of this information maybe extraneous to non-tea drinkers or gardeners who do not wish to cultivate their own teas, the mood created by the setting of the garden and the aromas of the plants in the garden are enough to calm even the most wild of spirits.The Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival is, far and away, my favorite event housed at Walt Disney World each and every year, and this showcase is my favorite of the festival. Though this year’s event has already begun fading into memory, I cannot wait to see what they have brewing for us next year.

Illusion and reality

This is the fountain from the 1984 film Splash, which starred Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah. While the film may not be as fondly remembered as other films from the romantic-comedy golden age, it is a terrific piece from that film and a fine specimen of one of my favorite concepts of Disney’s Hollywood Studios that has slowly begun to vanish.

The idea of a real working studio has long been erased from Disney’s Hollywood Studios, but the ability to see real props, concept art, models, and set pieces has always been able to bring me back to the park time and time again. Even the bits of Walt Disney World attractions that were stored on the lot were goldmines for my younger self. Today, however, these pieces of movie and park history are less and less likely to be found among the fabricated worlds of the Hollywood that never was.

With the demolition of Residential Street and the closing of the walking portion of the Studio Backlot Tour, later known as Backstage Pass, a good portion of the real film feel have been lost in the park. While there are a few pieces still scattered about in the queue for the Great Movie Ride, One Man’s Dream, ABC Commissary, and the Animation Gallery, an even greater wealth of materials have evaporated or are shuttered away. These tokens, like the fountain from Splash, stand as reminders of the idea that pieces of Hollywood would always have a welcoming place at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

But maybe, just maybe, they aren’t grim reminders at all; perhaps they can be used as inspiration and a promise for the future. While it would be such a small task, and go mostly unnoticed, displays and props like these cropping up all around the park would not only bring the feel of a studio lot back to the park, in addition to piquing interest in upcoming film and television releases, but would also show the Disney community that they remember the founding principles that Disney-MGM Studios/Disney’s Hollywood Studios was built upon.

Really bad eggs

The Pirates League will be opening soon enough (June 29th), and the booty plundered by Captain Jack Sparrow will soon adorn the newly sworn in boy buccaneers who have signed on without delay. While this experience comes just a few years too late for many of us boys who never grew up, the pleasure seen in our young pirates’ faces should more than make up for it.While we enduring the last few weeks before the doors swing open for all the scallywags to pillage and rifle, here is a look at the work taking place behind the doors and walls. Being a stealthy pretend pirate myself for a number of years, I swiped this picture a few weeks ago, ne'er to be caught. It may not be much, but it is all we imaginary buccaneers have for now.

M. Mouse Prop.

The displays and décor of Sir Mickey’s, which can be found in the Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland, pulls from two of Mickey Mouse’s tales, the 1938 Brave Little Tailor and 1947 Mickey and the Beanstalk.

For the window shopping guest, the exterior of the Sir Mickey’s features Mickey the tailor’s shop and workspace. Included in the workshop are a note that he is out giant hunting, artwork with Goofy, Pluto, and Clarabelle Cow in period depictions, and some incredible garment designs.

















The interior of the shop hosts Mickey at a turn in the beanstalk and Willie the Giant peaking in through the roof (reminiscent of Mickey’s Christmas Carol where Willie is presented as the Ghost of Christmas Present). Thankfully, there are no dressing rooms in Sir Mickey’s where Willie could potentially alarm guests.














The crossover of the two features comes in the form of Princess Minnie, who appears in Brave Little Tailor, being present in Sir Mickey’s interior. Possibly the most out of place characters in the shop, however, are Donald, Huey, Dewey, and Louie who appear in an exterior workshop crafting armor with a picture of Willie the Giant behind them. While suggestive of Brave Little Tailor, neither Donald nor his nephews appeared in that cartoon.

















Both Mickey and the Beanstalk and Brave Little Tailor are both currently available on Walt Disney Animation Collection: Volume I – Mickey and the Beanstalk.

Addendum: Your ability to observe

Mentioned in passing this morning were the Cast Members who give small presentations and answer questions along the various trails of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. These well-informed Cast Members, who can also be found along the savannahs of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Kidani Village, are a fantastic source of information.For instance, the metal fans that can be seen along the savannahs of the resorts as well as on Kilimanjaro Safaris have long been a mystery to me. For whatever reason, I had assumed these were microphones recording the animals’ speech patterns for research. I would have gone on with this assumption had I not asked what specifically they were and given a detailed answer. As it turns out, they are actually called “hot blossoms.” The spikes are electrified to keep the animals at a close, but not to close, distance from the guests and the adventurous guests away from the animals.

These Cast Members provide stories and information beyond what could ever possibly be inferred from signs and displays alone. It is the guests that may not stop to ask a question, or even listen to the readily available spiel, who are missing out on a complete experience. As I said earlier, take a moment to be curious, listen and who knows what you will discover. Oh, and while you are at it, be sure to thank these wonderful individuals for all of their hard work and extraordinary scope of knowledge they convey.

Your ability to observe

Imparting relevant information without appearing to be force feeding the information down the throats of guests is one of the key components to edutainment. The information has to be entertaining, discreet, and able to stay with a guest long after the experience has ended. In Disney’s Animal Kingdom, with so much information to be related to the guests, much of it sought out by the guests themselves, the manners in which the stories of the animals and the conservation message are passed on is crucial. Luckily, Disney has created a multitude of ways in which to convey their messages over the years.Many species of animals are found along the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail, each with its own unique personality, physical traits, habits, and habitat. Rather than merely place a sign detailing this information at each of the viewing areas, creative documentation has been crafted. By creating a simple back story of the Pangani Forest being home to a Conservation School, all the tools of an educator are opened to sharing vital information. Chalkboards filled with pertinent data to the edge of the slate, school documents, “lectures” given by guides along the trails, museum displays, and even newspaper clippings all build upon the idea of a school setting while communicating significant facts.

Near the okapi viewing area alone several of these techniques, such as chalkboards and displays, are employed. Perhaps my favorite technique, and one where great amounts of intriguing details can be found, that is utilized in this section of the trail is the letter from the Ituri Okapi Project. Located in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo), and a part of the Ituri Wildlife Preserve, the letter details the okapis primary habitat, diet, and the behaviors associated with birth and calf raising, all under the guise of an information exchange between two organizations that have recently completed a transfer of three okapis. The wealth of information in that one piece of paper is outstanding, but must be sought out to be truly appreciated.

It just goes to show, on the trails of Pangani, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Walt Disney World, and even life as a whole, never take anything for granted. The more curious you are, and the closer you look, the more rich your experiences will be.

All of his optimistic qualities

Ever since the news broke about the untimely passing of Wayne Allwine, the voice of Mickey Mouse, two weeks ago I have been struggling to put into words how saddened I was by the loss. The clash is, internally, because I never had the honor to meet Wayne Allwine or his wife, and the voice of Minnie Mouse, Russi Taylor, and yet he has had a profound impact in my life.

First and foremost, to say that I feel anything akin to the feeling that Russi Taylor and their family must be feeling would be deluded and inappropriate. The world lost a giant among mice and men, but they lost a piece of their hearts and souls. My deepest sympathies go out to Russi, their children, and their family.

The long running television series Doctor Who stars a character named the Doctor. Unlike most characters in literature, television, or film, the Doctor is able to regenerate his form, which allows for a new actor to create the character anew, in their own likeness. Anyone who has ever been a fan of the series has, what has been termed, their Doctor, the Doctor of their childhood or that they took a charm to when they first began watching the series. It is, in a similar fashion, the connection I have to Wayne Allwine, he was my Mickey Mouse.

Mickey Mouse was created by Walt Disney, and was also voiced by the extremely talented Jimmy MacDonald, but from the time I was born Wayne Allwine has been the voice behind the ears. While I may have seen every single Mickey Mouse cartoon still available, I still return again and again to those moments I most remember: Mickey as Bob Crachit in Mickey’s Christmas Carol, the voice on the radio as we approached Walt Disney World and in the parades on Main Street U.S.A., the Prince and the Pauper, and all the little places in between. The life given to Mickey in each of those places was done so by Wayne Allwine, and even though there are a set of traits inherent to Mickey Mouse, no matter who is behind the mic, a piece of a person finds its way out of the voice and into the life of the character. My children will grow up with a Mickey Mouse all their own, and whomever that may be they will be a tremendous talent. And that is, I suppose, as it should be.

Wayne Allwine once said, “Mickey is Walt’s,” and that is so very true. But to everyone who grew up in the late 1970s and beyond, Wayne Allwine was our Mickey, and he always will be.