50th Event Information [merged]

[tmshpkns]

Originally Posted by Maus

I've been reading these comments with interest and I will certainly call Martha if that's what it takes. I agree that the top three packages should fill up the seminars and be satisfied before they are offered to others. When did your e-mail arrive regarding the RSP for the seminars? I haven't received one yet. I did receive the other two about the merchandise and book. Hmmmm. I imagine that I can go to the Website and register without the e-mail but am wondering why. What's the ending date to register for the seminars?

End date is Sun, the same as the Merchandise. The seminar info is in the same email as the book, down at the bottom. Oh, and the link is only through the email, I haven't been able to find a link to it through the site.

[Maus]

Sheesh, thanks tmshpkns, I totally missed it!

Now my problem is that my daughter is out of town until Sunday so I can't ask her which ones she'd like to sign up for. Oh, bother.

[Maus]

After looking at this registration RSP this morning it could be handled so much differently.

Maybe this has already been stated but if we were able to choose, in order of our preference, which programs we wanted they could then slot us into the times available according to how many seats were available and by the package we had purchased. We may not get our first choices but we'd at least get four of them. Doesn't that make more sense? I guess I do need to call Martha.

[tmshpkns]

Posting on behalf of my husband....
jmuboy posted on another site this:


For those who are tired of the problems associated with this event, there is a website where you can “sign” an open letter to Matt Ouimet, President of the Disneyland Resort. This letter points out the numerous problems and asks for intervention from management to ensure each person gets what they have paid for.

You can visit the site at:

saveourevent.com

here is the link where this was found. http://p095.ezboard.com/fdizpinsboardsfrm33.showMessageRange?topicID=332.t opic&start=21&stop=40

Sorry, cant get as fancy as he can, just the info. Hope it helps some.

Thanks,

Scrappinpooh for tmshpkns

[Maus]

In re-reading the event info on the Disney Gallery Website I find that the Walt and Roy packages were guaranteed ONE seminar per day. The Lillian package makes no such guarantee. However, when I purchased the Lillian package I did not read the other packages as I had no interest in them. My package states:

"Illusions, Illustrations & Inspirations" seminars/worshops 7/15 and 7/16; Available via Random Selection Process only.

I was not "guaranteed" anything but I did not know that because I did not read the descriptions of the other packages. I took this statement to mean the RSP would determine which workshops I would be able to go to, not that I would quite possibly not go to any during a session.

So because I did not fully understand this I guess I'm not entitled to complain when the RSP does not allow me to attend four different workshops. What I will complain about is if they will then turn around and "re-sell" those empty seats to others for an additional charge rather than fill them with those who would attend four if they could.

[KarenW2]

Hi tmshpkns,
I clicked on your link above, to see what the open letter said, but I keep getting, "Page Not Found". Is something missing from the link?

[Circarama]

Originally Posted by KarenW2

Hi tmshpkns,
I clicked on your link above, to see what the open letter said, but I keep getting, "Page Not Found". Is something missing from the link?

Here is the link to the letter. It has been posted on several Disney discussion boards.

http://www.saveourevent.com

[tmshpkns]

Sorry for the problem with the link. Can't post to MP from work, so my wife did it form my computer here at home.

Sorry if this post goes back and forth a little on the same topics. It's a cut and paste job fram a couple different posts I made on DizPins throughout the day:

I spoke at length with Martha this morning. I think she understands the problem. We even discussed how it would go over with the attendees who have already completed their RSP's if this RSP were scrapped and started over, so I think that option is on the table from her perspective.

After speaking with her, I don't think there was a malicious intent. I specifically asked the question about Imagineers package people paying extra to attend the seminars (which would have been motive for keeping prepaid attendee numbers down) and she said that they WERE NOT BEING SOLD AT A HIGHER PRICE TO ANYONE. Although I believe whoever said they got thi info from WDES, I believe that it was bad information and that Martha is being truthful. She stated that the seminar size was increased from what was originally planned in order to accomodate more people, and that since we were only guaranteed entry into one seminar, they though we would be happy with getting two or three. I explained that since there were enough spaces, I would be satisfied with nothing less than 4 (even if I have to watch the table decorating one - no offense to anyone who's interested in that, but I'm not)

I explained that the common feeling was that if there are 520 spots total, during a time slot 311 of them should be filled with top three package holders and ES can do whatever they want with the remaining (although I did mention the devaluing of my package and that I am now paying $255 pp for breakfast). I told her the problem was the possibility that during that time slot with 520 openings, only 250 top-three package people would get in and that 270 Imagineers would fill spots they didn't pay for.

I was left feeling that there is a possibility that they would decide to scrap the existing system and start over. I made specific suggestions as to how it should have been conducted and we talked briefly about the logistics of redoing it. She definitely stated unequivocally that she knows it was not done the best way possible and if she was starting this now it would be done differently. It remains to be seen what actually comes out of it.

I think that "not getting it" was the root of this problem. Event staff really believed that we would be thrilled with the seminar scenario since we were probably going to get more than we were originally promised. I think the backlash caught them totally off guard. However, I did feel like when I was done talking with her she finally "got it."

My explanation about the seminar that would be my absolute last choice I think got through. Later in the conversation she came back to it and asked if I was so disinterested in that, would I even attend if I was awarded it and I said I absolutely would. I told her that leaving us in the lobby with an hour to kill was one of the problems. I explained that an hour wasn't even enough time to go and do something in one of the parks and get back for whatever's next on the agenda. Particularly when it will be VERY busy. I also told her that the hour might not even be long enough to get through security.

At the end of our conversation, I told her that if it were not for the logistics problems I face (travelling in a group, some with sponsors), I would be asking for my money back because of this issue.

Tom

[tmshpkns]

I have been contacted by the anonymous site owners of saveourevent.com in response to a post on another site.

They have obtained over 30 signatures on the letter to Mr. Ouimet (10% of the registrants for the top three packages). They are hoping to get to 100 before the weekend is up. If you are attending the event please check out the letter and consider signing it. If you have already signed it, but other mebers of your party or people you know have not sigend it, please let them know and encourage them to do so. Thanks!

[Alex S.]

If you look at the detailed information we posted on April 10, which was copied from the WDES Web site, it does not appear that the original announcement said anything about certain seminars having an additional fee for materials (it appears to be $10 for those that do).

Does anybody have a sense of whether we just missed that fact or if it was added later? I can't imagine paying $2000 for the event and then being told you might have to pay up to $40 per person to fully participate in your seminars (if you get four, and if they's all pay to play).

[KarenW2]

Hi Alex,
No, I don't think you missed reporting the extra fee for seminars, as it was not in the info they originally released! I've been checking the Disney Gallery site quite often, since the initial announcement of the event, making note of changes that came along the way, like the cancellation of the installation ceremony for the Walt package. We're not doing that one, but it was still a change that I noticed in the event info.

I think it's ridiculous to expect people to pay an extra $10 per seminar to go to these things. Can whatever the "extras" that go with those seminars really cost them that much money?? For example, the Art seminar would be an extra $10 per head. That's $400 per session, times 4 times it's offered for a total of $1,600 extra they'll receive, if they sell all seats. What is the extra we'll receive? They don't even tell us.

If they DO sell seats to seminars to those with the Imagineer's package, I fully expect them to charge them for ALL seminars received, more than $10 for SOME of the seminars, since their package did not include these seminars from the beginning!

As it turns out, all the seminars I'm interested in happen to be those with the $10 extra fee. No, it doesn't seem right to expect us to pay additional monies to get what we were supposed to receive with our package. Tho it was interesting to note, when we submitted our seminar RSP list, it did not ask for our credit card info on that page. Either they're going to get it from the other info we've already submitted, or hopefully, they might reconsider charging the extra fee. One can only hope!!

It's less than a month from the event now and we still don't have all the info we should have, in my opinion. I've asked for a list of things done by the artists and authors, since we can't bring anything we've already purchased with us. I would like to have some idea of what additional things will be there for our purchase, so we can get them signed by those there for that purpose. I've gotten 2 different answers from WDES - one, they were going to give us a list (either by posting it online or via email I guess) by the end of May, the later answer said we may not even get that info before the event!!

We've been pleased with the other events we've been to in the past and had very high hopes for this one, as it is the 50th anniversary & all, but we've been less than excited with the way things have been handled thus far. We've submitted our various RSP lists to WDES and it will be interesting to see which items we will "win" the "privilege" to purchase, which seminars we will be able to attend and if we'll be charged the extra fees for them.

We plan to try to make the best of the situation tho, whatever happens, and have the best time we can. But, in my opinion, they have definitely over-exercised their "right to change things before the event" at this point and hope there aren't any other bad surprises coming our way before 7-15!!

[Circarama]

KarenW2 and Alex,
I understand and share your concerns regarding various elements of this event. I would encourage, if you have not done so already, to consider signing the "open letter" to Matt Ouimet that is posted at http://www.saveourevent.com.

When signing, you also have the opportunity to list your personal concerns in detail, directly to Mr. Ouimet.

I just looked at the website and it is quoted here,

We will collect “signatures” until Monday, June 20, 2005. On June 21, 2005, our letter will be sent via overnight courier to Mr. Ouimet.

I believe the only way that we possibly get resolution to issues regarding this much anticipated event is to take our concerns directly to the president of the Disneyland Resort.

[KTHoover]

I have to tell you guys from the very begining they had the following information:

“Illusions, Illustrations & Inspirations” seminars/workshops (7/15 and 7/16/05; Available via Random Selection Process only. Some seminars may require an additional materials fee.)

I'm not sure why you guys are surprised that some of the seminars have a $10 fee when it said from the begining that some seminars may require an additional materials fee. I really don't understand you guys at all!!! You really need to read what you are signing up for so maybe you will be happier with what you are getting.

[Maus]

Originally Posted by KTHoover

I have to tell you guys from the very begining they had the following information:

“Illusions, Illustrations & Inspirations” seminars/workshops (7/15 and 7/16/05; Available via Random Selection Process only. Some seminars may require an additional materials fee.)

I also remember reading this from the very beginning and expected the fee. Luckily only one of the seminars I requested have a charge.

Karen I also recall seeing that the original method of payment for the merchandise RSP will be used for the book and seminar. It must have been on the Website as it's not in any of the e-mails.

[The Genii]

I signed the letter and sent my remarks. Having paid for the Walt's Dream package, I was not pleased to hear that there is a 56% greater attendance than originally advertised. 50 people is an intimate group: 86 is not. I suggest they refund 56% of my $2000 in compensation.
I also pointed out that I hoped the organization would be better for this than the Indiana Jones event, which was in some senses a fiasco--I missed the ride through of Indy with the work lights on because of poor communication among those working the event.

[jiminycesq]

In response to a request about what the artists will be signing, here is what I am guessing/know/think -

For Friday, the artists are -

* Dave Avanzino - has limited edition piece in the RSP, probably thats it;
* David Bird - another RSP limited edition artist (stained glass I think);
* Elisabete Gomes - another RSP Limited edition artist (ceramic I believe):
* Bruce Gordon - Imagineer and author, has two books out, probably both will be sold in the event store - Art of Disneyland and Disneyland - Now Then and Forever
* Jeff Kurtti - Co author on Art of Disneyland with Bruce Gordon
* Stacia Martin - Author of book on Disneyland music in recent CD set, and sketch artist/historian/someone who loves all things Disney passionately
* Larry Nikolai - Imagineer/Limited edition Big Fig in RSP
* Tim O'Day - Co Author of Disneyland Now Then and Forever
* Robert Olszewski - Miniatures - Main street, and RSP Teacup ride
* Marie Osmond - Doll in RSP selection
* Carlene Thie - Recent Disneyland 50th book in series based on photos taken by her father during DL's early years

I think that the authors books, and hopefully some other Olszewski miniatures, and probably the CD set with Stacia's book will all be on sale in the event store, so you can buy them there and get them signed; I doubt you can bring in something not purchased at the event however.

For Saturday, they are -

Charles Boyer
* Alice Davis - RSP Small World Doll print
* Bob Gurr - Imagineer, my guess would be Autopia miniature, maybe other ride miniatures or surprise "Gift" items, maybe the books on DL as he created the mechanics of many attractions and vehicles (ie monorail)
* Lenox - Artist - RSP Limited edition castle sculpture
* Marie Osmond - Back again with her dolls.... enuf said!
* Dave Pacheco - WDCC Art director, probably signing Bruce Lau sculpture of Donald and family in the RSP LE selection
* Christopher Radko - Park ornaments in RSP
* Eric Robison - See comments below
* Marty Sklar - Effectively head of Imagineering for many years, put out first DL newspaper, probably signing books, or maybe the frame that has his "Headline" from the paper at park opening
* Starlight Original - Representative - LE Tinkerbell thing in the RSP

The one I am most curious about is Eric Robison, who was a regular at the Gallery for many years with I think chalk and/or watercolor prints of character art and park attractions. He has nothing in the RSP that I can identify, unless he did the new map, which I doubt - it doesnt look like his other work that I have seen, so I could be wrong. I am wondering, therefore, if he has a print that we are all getting as a "gift" or similar?? I like to wonder about these things... any other ideas what he might be signing?

The above are my assumptions and guesses, I have no inside "source", except I know one or more artists :-) and I suggest you look in the event logo store before going to the signing to see what they might have. I would like to get some other Olszewski stuff signed, and of course the books, and the RSP stuff I hope to "win" the right to purchase!

Any other guesses on Robison, please do share ... and, by the way ....

WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO THE KINKADE CASTLE PAINTING???? (I know, not a 50th thing, but it would be nice if it is ever going to be released to have it released in time for the event itself).

Hope this helps ... and remember generally speaking they do not permit signing of items not purchased at the event, per their guidelines.

Good luck!

[cstephens]

Originally Posted by KarenW2

Tho it was interesting to note, when we submitted our seminar RSP list, it did not ask for our credit card info on that page.

When we submitted our seminar requests, there was a line that said it would use the payment information we'd already submitted for the merchandise RSP. Presumably, if someone didn't participate in the merch. RSP and signed up for a seminar that had an extra fee, they would have been asked for payment information at that time.

[The Genii]

It's sad how corporations always seem to screw their most loyal fans--in this case it's the book signings.
As a fan, I do EXACTLY what they want me to do: buy the books immediately upon release.
So, I already HAVE all of the books that are going to be signed, but their assinine policy of not allowing you to bring any "personal" items (a corporate euphemism for things you have not purchased THAT DAY) means that the people who support these ventures the most, and who buy first, get screwed. Your ONLY option is to buy a second copy and have it signed or just not have the copies you've already purchased signed.
It sucks.

[jiminycesq]

The official website has a few photos of some of the auction items up today, including the Swarovski pieces. I imagine more will be added. Also, the text descriptions are more extensive for some items than previously. More to come I am sure!

[cstephens]

I like that they've included how many people are included for each of the experience packets, like behind the scenes of Fantasmic and the parade, so you know exactly what you'll be paying for. I noticed the other day that the Walt's Apartment experience is for the bidder and 12 guests. I hadn't expected it to be for that many people. Even though only the bidder gets the commemorative keepsake, I would imagine many people would be willing to chip in to jointly purchase that experience just to be able to visit the apartment. With potentially 13 people pooling their resources, I can't imagine what that's going to be sold for.

[Circarama]

I noticed today that there have been some additions made to the 50th auction including a "Jungle Cruise and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Expedition with Tony Baxter", a "Carved Tiki Totem #1", "Tarzan's Treehouse Desk",and "Opening Day of The Disney Gallery" Original Watercolor by John Hench, among others.
I also noted that the Disneyland Railroad Roundhouse Tour, which was to be given by Disney Legend Bob Gurr, has been changed.The description now reads, "Join the Disneyland Railroad Engineers on a detailed overview of the Disneyland® Railroad steam trains. Listen as the Engineers share train history and experience a wardrobe and photo opportunity. Witness the fire up process and locomotive operation. Bidder will receive a commemorative keepsake. Bidder, plus three (3) Guests."
So... things associated with the event continue to evelve.

[Andrew]

Originally Posted by Circarama

"Jungle Cruise and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Expedition with Tony Baxter"

At last--something I'd really be interested in doing.

[Figaro1700]

Not only are there now numerous new auction items up, but if you look at the Event descriptions, the Imagineers package now longer list the seminars. So, hopefully, everyone will get what they want. I am still hoping that this is a wonderful event.

[Alex S.]

Originally Posted by KTHoover

I'm not sure why you guys are surprised that some of the seminars have a $10 fee

I'm not surprised, which is why I asked the question. When the event was first announced we tried hard to include all the information both here on MousePad and in the weekly Park Update. That is why I asked if it had always been there.

That said, I think it is still awfully cheap of them to charge for supplies considering how much people are paying to get a chance to attend the seminars, but if it was there from the beginning then that's fair.

[The Genii]

Yes, Alex, it was always noted from the beginning.

Yes, it is incredibly cheap of them to nickle and dime you when you're paying between $1700 and $2000 and you are guaranteed one seminar each day as part of your package.

The thing that's so disheartening is that they don't seem to learn from their mistakes--there is no way to predict whether Event Services is going to have their act together or not from event to event. This is a sign of extremely poor management.