Jack Spence

Epcot’s China Pavilion – Part One

February 13, 2012 by Jack Spence

When the idea for a World Showcase of nations was beginning to gel, Disney sent feelers out to a number of countries to see how much interest could be generated and how much financial support could be secured. Among those solicited were two communist countries, China and the Soviet Union. Both liked the idea and … Continue reading "Epcot’s China Pavilion – Part One"

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Tea Cups at the Disney Theme Parks

February 6, 2012 by Jack Spence

You either love ’em or you hate ’em. There isn’t much middle ground when it comes to the Tea Cups. I categorize this attraction as a “Spin & Puke” ride so you can guess what camp I’m in. Actually, I will venture onto the Tea Cups just as long as my fellow passengers swear on … Continue reading "Tea Cups at the Disney Theme Parks"

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Quiz Time — First & Last Names – Answers

January 31, 2012 by Jack Spence

Yesterday I asked you to match first and last names of Disney animated characters. So how did you do? Did you get them all correct? Since most Disney characters don’t have last names, the list of possibilities was already limited for you. I’m sure this quiz was a snap. LOL Here are the answers. (A) … Continue reading "Quiz Time — First & Last Names – Answers"

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Quiz Time — First & Last Names – Questions

January 30, 2012 by Jack Spence

Hey everyone, it’s quiz time again. For this test, I’ve listed the first and last names of Disney animated characters. It’s your job to match them up. Since I’m often told my quizzes are difficult, I’ve made sure that all of my selections are major players in the film or short. Note that in some … Continue reading "Quiz Time — First & Last Names – Questions"

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The Good Stores

January 23, 2012 by Jack Spence

My first trip to Disneyland was in late 1957. I was five years old and I only have a few recollections of that trip. But since my family lived in Southern California, we made yearly outings to “The Happiest Place on Earth” and my memories began to build. On these visits, I never bought souvenirs. … Continue reading "The Good Stores"

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Norway Pavilion in Epcot – Part Two

January 17, 2012 by Jack Spence

Yesterday, I provided you with a brief history of the Norway Pavilion and started describing some of the sights. Today I’ll complete the tour. When the Imagineers and the pavilion’s sponsors got together for the first time to brainstorm ideas for an attraction, they quickly came to an impasse. The Imagineers wanted to present Norway’s … Continue reading "Norway Pavilion in Epcot – Part Two"

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Norway Pavilion in Epcot – Part One

January 16, 2012 by Jack Spence

Norway Pavilion The Norway Pavilion was the last nation to be added to World Showcase. Its soft opening occurred on May 6, 1988 and its official debut followed two months later on July 5. Crown Prince Harald V attended the ceremony and the festivities were broadcast live to Norway. The original idea was to create … Continue reading "Norway Pavilion in Epcot – Part One"

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Pounding the Pavement at Walt Disney World

January 9, 2012 by Jack Spence

Pounding the Pavement Some time ago, I wrote a blog about benches and another about lampposts found at the theme parks at Walt Disney World. My intent was to show you the lengths the Imagineers go to, to tell a “story” with details. Today I’ve picked another topic to illustrate this point. And the topic … Continue reading "Pounding the Pavement at Walt Disney World"

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Disney California Adventure Part Six of Six

January 8, 2012 by Jack Spence

Yesterday I discussed Disney California Adventure’s (DCA) newest addition, Cars Land. Today I’ll be closing this series of articles with a description of Paradise Pier. Paradise Pier is based on Victorian boardwalks that were once found along the coast of California. It features “Coney Island” style rides and a midway. But before I go into … Continue reading "Disney California Adventure Part Six of Six"

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Christmas Week

January 2, 2012 by Jack Spence

Now that the busy holiday season is over, I have a question for all of you who visited Disneyland and Walt Disney World the week between Christmas and New Year’s. Why? When I applied to work at Disneyland, the interviewer made it very clear – I would work while others played. This meant weekends, nights, … Continue reading "Christmas Week"

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