Dave’s Disney view

 Overview: I made it up to the 4th of the Star Wars Weekends, and had a great time. I recount my experience and tell a few stories about my day. Come in and take a listen to a virtual Star Wars Weekend experience. 

 Notes:The person whose name I couldn't think of was James Arnold Taylor, voice of Obi Wan in the Clone Wars animated TV show. I noted that typically the guests aren't *that* interesting, but I will make an exception for the last weekend (this coming one) as Frank Oz is one of the celebrity guests. Oz, of course, worked with Jim Henson on the muppets, and has a more interesting story. Unfortunately, my schedule didn't work for coming up for weekend #5. 

 Overview: This podcast is a tribute to the Japan pavilion. I take a thorough look at the design, layout, theming, and of course the gardens. Then, I spend some time talking about shopping and dining. And finally I discuss a planned attraction that was mostly built, but never opened. Come take a listen to the tale about this fascinating opening-day Epcot pavilion. 

 Notes:Japan might very well be the most interesting among the World Showcase pavilions. From dining to shopping, to the zen of it all, Japan has it pretty well covered. A reminder that the general overview of Epcot's World Showcase is in podcast #208. 

 Overview: Today, I explore the history of EPCOT in general, and the rationale for the World Showcase portion of the park. Walt Disney had something specific in mind, and we didn't get that, but we did get an entertaining place that has a richness to it. Here's to a little history! 

 Notes:Its difficult to imagine what Walt's vision was, precisely, so we mainly have to guess at it. The view of Progress City that you can see from the PeopleMover is about 1/3 of the full model. The whole thing took up about 1,500 square feet - that's close the size of a smaller home! 

 Overview: On today's podcast, I'm talking about Star Wars Weekend, which is held annually at late May/early June in Disney's Hollywood Studios. Joining me to talk about the event and the awesome parade is Lance Tomkins, Commanding Officer of the Florida Garrison of the 501st Legion. He's got some fun stories to tell, and we talk about dressing up and generally having fun at the event. Enjoy! 

 Notes: Visit the 501st Legion at http://501st.com 

 Overview: Friend of the Show Gary Miceli is back, and today we're talking about fun experiences at Disney. We all have special memories of our trips to the park, we share ours and what makes them memorable! 

 Notes: I think the changes coming to the studios will mean a lot of history will be lost....oh well, that's progress! The Youtube video will give you a sense of the behind the scenes look you once got from the Backlot Tour. And the picture is of Inspector Gadget's car. 

 Overview: My grandparents had a tremendous influence on me - and are a large part of the reason that I love Disney. Come in and hear the story about them, and how they shaped me. Its a personal story that serves as a tribute to them. 

 Notes: The top picture is in front of the Polynesian; their personalities shine through in the pic - that's really who they were. The other picture of them is at the Golf Resort pool (now Shades of Green). And of course there I am with them at a Mickey's Christmas Party in 1983. 

 Overview: This podcast is a look at the fascinating article Wired Magazine did about the Magic Bands. You can find the original article here: http://www.wired.com/2015/03/disney-magicband/ They did such a nice job of looking behind the scenes, how could I *not* talk about it? Most of this is not original work by me, so I want to give full credit to the publication, as I read the article. 

 Notes: Wired is from Conde Nast publications, and I highly recommend subscribing, or at least visiting the site and poking around. You never know what you might find. Wired article 

 Overview: I present to you my top 10 Quick Service Meals. I tell you what dish I like, and where you can get it. Of course, I sprinkle in a few helpful tips, and make some suggestions on how to get there and where you might eat the food. 

Notes: There is no place I love in the Magic Kingdom. But, there are spots in both the Polynesian and Contemporary that are nearby. I have favorites in each of the other theme parks, and 4 other resorts. I have a breakfast, two vegetarian dishes, three that come from the sea, some chicken, pork, and lamb.

 Overview: Today's podcast is another look at the monorail. Disney is testing some changes to the monorail, so I wonder what's up with that? I look back at the history of the monorail, and suggest what this means as it relates to wait times. And, at the end of the podcast, I have some thoughts about Measles at DisneyLand.

Notes: I wanted to point out that no the vaccination part of the podcast, it is not my intention to wade into the minefield that has sprung up around this topic. Rather, I am thinking about the greater good and the science of it. 

 Overview: Its my 200th show! And to celebrate, I am talking about how to celebrate at Walt Disney World. I've got some thoughts, suggestions, and give you some ideas on how you might celebrate on your next Disney vacation! 

 Notes:Just what will you celebrate? This was a lot of fun to think about because there really are so many ways to celebrate at Disney World.