Subtracting the Plusses

Get online and look up some of the Disney-related forums, podcasts, vBlogs, suppor-I mean chat groups, or any other website. They will tell you exactly what is going on with the Disney Parks at all times, from detail changes, company information, wait times, crowds, and anything else you can think of.

Or will they?

Within the past year I've tried my hardest to stay away from all these places. I found that the people hiding behind avatars are "fans" that complain, that think they know everything about everything with the "Disney Company" logo on it, and that think they know what's best for the company. When really, they don't know much, they don't know people in the company, and unless you work for Disney, you don't know what's best for them.

I sat next to a small group of people today at lunch that described my stereotype that I just explained. They had some websites with Disney material on it, and they thought they were a hot Earl Sandwich with BBQ kettle-cooked chips. So my family and I sat there and eves-dropped on them.

There's a reason some people aren't with Disney. They were sharing not only info that Disney wouldn't want shared, but they were sharing wrong information. They geeked out over meeting up with certain people, and were a perfect example to why I stay away from these things.

I get my Disney news from 2 sources. 1. Twitter. 2. Cast Members and Imagineers that I actually, personally, know. And guess what? I don't share what I learn with anyone online, because I like to keep this info exclusive and I want Disney and these people on my side. It's unbelievable to me what some others say online, whether it's correct or incorrect.

Also, what's going on with "news" sources lately? There's been tons of minor changes in detail around Disneyland and DCA, and yet no one seems to notice. Like some new (or just fixed) lighting on the waterfall in Thunder Mountain. Something I haven't seen before. And some small new things in Racers. Plus, take a ride on some other rides, and watch some of the shows... Updates, or in Disney terms, Plussing, is happening pretty frequently in all areas, and these "Die-hard" fans seem to be looking over it.

And my blog Disney Park Secrets?  We just do that for fun. We aren't after the most fans, the most readers, and we don't give anything away that Disney hasn't already said. We just like to share the common Disney things to the average fans.

I tweet some of these changes when I come across them, so feel free to give me a follow if you wish.

I'll continue to look around and laugh at these fans against everything Disney is doing, or these updates that are completely false yet everyone falls for them, or those that think they are pretty popular for having an AA twitter account. (Not calling anyone out here. I know I met some of you this past weekend who run those. I just think it's funny how serious some people take it.)

Anyway, back to organizing my room and getting things ready for the week.

Working for the Snoop Dog

Yesterday I had my second interview with Knott's Berry Farm. I felt like it went well, and was called back in after to be told that I was hired for Parking/Transportation/Traffic. The relief was so instant I caused an earthquake. As I finished signing the last paper for employment, So Cal's second 4.5 earthquake hit. The recruiters then started joking around with  me saying that they hope that's a sign that I'm going to be a good employee. I'm glad I already have an inside joke with them.

I really can't wait to start this job. Not because I was desperate for one (80 applications and a month and a half later, and I FINALLY get something), but because this is a total new experience for me, and at this point in my life, I'm all for trying new things and experiencing the world.

I'll be honest. It isn't Disney. But, it will give me experience in several ways to be considered for Disney in the future. It's no secret that I applied for Disney a few months back. While they haven't said "no" to me, they haven't said "yes" either. There's still hope, but I'm really not expecting to be hired as a Cast Member just yet. And you know what? I'm okay with that.

So that's the latest on my job search. Thank you, friends and family, who have supported me in this and have helped me. It really means a ton, and I seriously have some freaking awesome friends and family out there. Thank you.

Rest assured I will definitely keep you updated on how training and everything goes. I won't actually start working for another week or two, but again, I'll post all my adventures here when the time comes.

Thank you guys again for being there through this difficult job hunting process. I can finally relax a little bit now. Things are working out.

Until the next adventure.... 

Tomorrowland Entrance

First off, I want to give credit to my bro Jake Williams. He threw this idea into my head and I just elaborated on his original design.

In our opinion, Tomorrowland needs a new, fresh entrance. With some exciting changes going to happen in the next few years in this side of the Park, why not update the beginning of this Land also?

Our proposal: Move Astro Orbiter to where the Observatron is currently located. Take out those "French Fry Rocks" completely. And put in this modern yet classic, new entrance:

Using all the colors currently found on the "Tomorrowland" sign. Not my first choice...

Keeping the colors simple, and all grey like on Space Mountain. 

The actual "Tomorrowland" sign on this walk-under structure would have a black background with twinkling stars.

Here's another idea though- Instead of having this painted, why not make it out of a type of glass? That way it's a modern see-through during the day, and at night it could be illuminated a nice shade of blue. (Heck, you could even get really creative with it and incorporate the colors into the Fireworks show/Parade).

That's not all we came up with though. We re-designed Tomorrowland altogether, and added Digital Mapping in certain areas, upgraded lighting, and new attractions and rides. Maybe if I have time this week I'll draw an overhead view of it all.


I'm really curious though, what do you think of this design? What do you think of a new entrance in general?

Disneyland Price Increases

I normally don't write about stuff like this, because I see it pointless. Everyone has their own opinions and views, and everyone has their own conspiracy theory. But, I'm hearing a lot of negativity so I thought I'd give my two cents.

First off I'd like to say that this is expected.

Second, I'd like to say that I'm not for prices to continually increase, but I know it will happen.

I do find it sad that when I was little my parents would take all 4 of us to Disneyland and it would only cost $200 for everything. And now it takes close to $1,000.
But, why should Disneyland decrease their prices? People still go. Hardcore fans like myself will pay it, and those that never have been before will save for it. This summer they will still be at capacity for Carsland, or for the Holidays. Or just busy all year in general. As long as people go, the prices will continually go up. Because people pay it.

No, Disney did not raise the prices to pay for John Carter. That's just being ignorant, in my opinion. Two separate departments. And when the DVD comes out, they will probably break even and then some.

Disney is letting Annual Passholders do more "cool" stuff now like tours and previews, Disney is adding on like crazy with stuff like Carsland, possible new shows on the Castle, and a soon upgrade to Tomorrowland and possible Thunder Mountain refurb. Disneyland is changing rapidly, and some cool stuff is on its way into the Park.

We could always get rid of World Of Color, the fireworks, Carsland, and a few other costly upgrades and bring the prices down....

But I'll continue to pay the prices, because Disneyland is one of my rare passions that I'll pay a lot of money for.

John Carter World Premier

On February 22nd, I had an incredible opportunity to attend the world premier of John Carter with D23. Now, Disney's marketing of this movie hasn't been over the top, so your probably asking what exactly "John Carter" is. Here is a trailer you should watch before continuing on:




This was held in LA Live, a place I fell in love with. This event consisted of us D23 members being able to walk the red carpet, then stand in a designated area to see all the stars arrive. After they walked, we all got to go see the movie (which doesn't come out until March 9th!).

After getting Michael Giacchino's autograph, along with others and many pictures, we walked to our theater and were seated. Andrew Stanton (the director) then came in and told us why he made this film, and just talked for a good 10 minutes. It was all so incredible. Here are some pictures of the event:

While waiting in line, Jeffery (D23 Geek) was out and about. Very nice guy!

Setting up the red carpet.

When I got to walk the red carpet.

End of the red carpet.

Waiting for the stars.

A list of all the stars who's supposed to be walking. 

Bruce Boxleitner, who assured us that Tron 3 will be happening.

Michael Giacchino. (I was able to get his autograph. I'm such a fan of his music, it made the trip worth it even more!)

Helen Mirren

Frankie Muniz

Mark Andrews, director of Brave.

Corbin Bleu

Bryan Cranston

Andrew Stanton and John Lasseter

Andrew Stanton and John Lasseter

Inside the theater, before they took our cameras away.

D23 also made this video of the premier:



(I'm in it a couple of times... So if you know what I look like, try to find me!)



As for the actual movie- I had low expectations for it. From the commercials on TV, it didn't look amazing to me. But that's 100% false, because John Carter was incredible! You definitely need to go see it, especially on opening weekend. Support Andrew Stanton and Disney, because we want to see the sequels as well!

For a more in-depth view on the film, check out one of my good friend's blog post, who I went to the premier with: John Carter Review



I'm very happy I was able to attend this, and a special thanks to D23 for putting it on! I can't wait for the next event!

Disneyland- January 2012 Trip Report

On January 21st and 22nd I spent two amazing days in Disneyland/DCA with some truly great friends. Having a new camera with me, I was able to take quite a few pictures that actually turned out quality wise. I mainly wanted to focus on the recent changes and construction, but I also included a few fun shots as well. Here is my 2 day experience through pictures:

La Brea Bakery is currently down

Carnation Cafe is currently down

Penny Arcade is down

My next stop was the Jolly Holiday Bakery. I ended up loving this place, and ate here 3 times.

There was some construction going on at the entrance of Adventureland

It looks like they painted this rock. Very tropical looking.

The friends

 Next stop was Indiana Jones Adventure

Walking through the queue, I noticed this new post, along with a new opening in the ceiling.

Some of these posts and wedges throughout the line actually are holding up parts that have begun to fall. Keepin' it authentic, Disney. :)

Wish this would have turned out better.

What happens when you look into the snakes eyes? Hmm?

Time to head around to see New Orleans/Critter Country

Fantasmic! has been down for a refub, and these yellow rails were up the whole time. I'm hearing rumors of some new effects.

Since Fantasmic! was down, the Columbia is also down for maintenance.

See the dynamite? These exact new (to me) barrels are freshly painted, and can be found on the rafts, Thunder, and Pirates. They all look the same. I thought it was interesting that they did that.

Haunted Mansion was down for Holiday uninstall.

I found this hidden mickey in Critter Country, by the Pooh store.

And I found this one on the opposite side from the previous picture on Splash.

The door was open on Tom Sawyer's Pirate Lair, and a trailer could be seen.

Cherry Picker in front of Haunted.

Such a cool little hidden place.

The ropes on Tarzan's Tree House need some serious attention.

 Shall we wonder to Frontierland now? 

See the wire cable on the track? I've always wondered what it was for.

I really dislike this seat. And not because of the accident. It's just a weird, creepy seat.

Oops, the flash went off.

 Tom Sawyer's Pirate Lair

Raft Guide: "Welcome to Tom Sawyer's isla- Wait, I mean Pirates Lai- Wait, I mean Tom Sawyer's Pirate- Well, Whatever it is!" 

I found this set of cords, and it was cracked open. So, I decided to see what was in it. A couple of CAT-5 cables and power cords. These are most likely for the lasers. Disney uses another system that I can't remember the name of.. It's not DMX... It's a newer technology. (Now it's going to bother me until I find the name of it...)

The box that the cords lead to.

Where Mickey pops out.

The cave was flooded.

East India Trading Company

Let's take a look at the Matterhorn. 

There's been a lot of rumors about the Matterhorn. The only thing Disney has confirmed is the new bobsleds. All other rumors of new show elements are nothing more than rumors at this point.

Temporary cover on the side of the Matterhorn and Nemo.

 Lunar New Year Celebration!

 Tomorrowland

The spike on Innoventions is now white. I wonder if they are painting it a different color.

An updated stage...

We got to go VIP, twice.

 Soundsational Parade

After I took this, I noticed how the little girl in the background is dressed the same. Adorable!

Disney California Adventure/ World of Color

Apparently this wall will be here for another 3 or 4 weeks.

Goofy's Sky School is becoming inclosed.

I thought this was funny.

The bubbles that came up from under the water that had projections on them are now gone, since they rarely worked. Now everything is projected on California Screamin', including new lasers and effects.

Fire!

This concludes my photo update for January. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. Thanks for reading the Random Post! I hope you can make it to Disneyland soon also. 

Until next time-

-Austen

(Feel free to use my pictures, if desired. Just credit the source: austengoehring.blogspot.com )