The Spirited Seventh Heaven ...

[wdisney9000]

You are confusing "fun" with "not serious". There are many, many people there that consider it a serious race. Disney does TONS to ensure people looking to run the race in a serious fashion can do so. Just because people dress up in costume doesn't mean that it's a throwaway race. The Disney World and Disneyland marathons are accepted as qualifying races for the Boston Marathon. That's serious.
As stated many, many times. They go to lengths to ensure people can run at their own pace. It's just not quite yet great. I'm using my W&D 1/2 marathon time as my corral submission for the ToT 10 miler this year. I hope to run faster than that pace by quite a bit, and if I get there, I'll ensure I have a proper qualifying race to move me up to another corral. Too many people looking to run slower times are in corrals up front. If they submitted a time that they had no intention of running, I don't know what Disney could do about that really. If Disney is not quite rigorous about checking the validity of submitted times, that's something completely different.
If this were a race that were something I didn't take as a serious race, I wouldn't pay the price I will be paying to go down and run it. Just because it happens to be a hell of a lot of fun doesn't diminish it's seriousness.

Anybody looking to compete seriously should compete in serious marathons. Disneys is meant to be fun. Yes, its accepted as qualifiers for Boston but even you have stated that the first mile of the race can dramatically skew your times due to all the people. That evidence alone shows that if a serious runner wants to submit a qualifying time for the Boston marathon they should NOT use a Disney marathon for that unless your starting at the head of the pack and can avoid the masses that are walking. Disney marathons have become so popular that its very difficult to finish in a time that accurately shows your best time. Should Disney change anything? Absolutely not, in my opinion. They are popular and it allows people who would otherwise avoid marathons to experience one, and ya, it looks like fun to get all dressed up in a crazy outfit.

I take my running VERY seriously and strive to get the most out of each run/workout. I have never competed in any marathons because I run and workout to stay in shape and feel good. I dont need a medal or a free t-shirt or the approval of complete strangers Im competing against to know that Im in shape. Im not knocking those who choose to compete either, I just choose to compete against myself. If I do ever decide to run in a marathon it would probly be a Disney one because they look FUN. If I wanted to be taken seriously, I would run a different marathon.

 

[WDW1974]

Spirited Friday Musings:

Hey, get off my , I didn't tell you to go bet $2.6 million on the Miami Heat winning Game 4, Floyd!

From the 'It Can't Get Any More Bizarre Than This Yet It Always Does' Dept., my 74-year-old father got carded to get alcohol today and, no, it wasn't a joke. Now, maybe if he had some work he could pass for 64. And if I brought him to a 'doctor' I know in 90210, that could probably be taken down into his late 50s. But c'mon ... REALLY?!?!

Don't know if it has been talked about, but UNI is hoping for TM previews of Gringotts by Monday.

On the subject of UNI's big development, it looks like it's going to be what we largely thought: a great new area that has best-in-O-Town theming, but also isn't perfect. I've heard about short-sighted moves to cut effects in both Gringotts and on the Hogsmeade Express. But I've also heard that these are still great attractions and should make the masses very happy.

(Now, do you think UNI fanbois will take the above as a largely positive post or do you think they'll be taking shots at me in the Twitverse because, much like the pixie dust snorters, it's all positive or nothing?)

Speaking of which, Kong will be too reliant on screens. Sorry, but that is the reality.

I think 'we' need more DVC points. I just can't keep up the travel pace of some of the Lifestylers and it's bringing me down, dude.

Censored for your protection.

Nice to see the DPB run more of @WDWFigment's great pics (now I get why you were at WDW and not DLR for the 24-hour event) ... but let's talk about Erin Glover (I need a nickname for her) and her post about the subs returning at the start of the new fiscal year. Gee, those Miceage dudes were right, after all.

BTW, Star Wars plans for DLR have taken a rather interesting turn and involve existing attractions, but not the ones originally thought. And, no, you won't get a word more out of me until things move further along.

Yes, it's true, the @EPCOT Explorer is up at WDW as an APer for the first time. Please help my 'little buddy' grow his Lifestyler BRAND by saying hey to him if you see him in the parks. He'll be the one getting excited by wall carpeting and the 80s 'thematics' of the Odyssey complex. (BTW, having dined there numerous times in the 80s and 90s, does that make me fanboi royalty?)

So, we are arguing about people who have no business running in serious races, running at Disney events again? Some people will never get the point, even if you hit them over the head with 75 pounds of fat that was lipo'd out of someone who needed to lose a few pounds!

This has been a very good week, and I want to thank all who helped.

Someone sent a note asking when is Frozen happening at EPCOT. I have no solid date. But I wouldn't expect to ride Maelstrom past this fall.

I hope @Lee and Mrs. Lee enjoyed their (short by my standards) vacation. I could take her on LONGER trips, myself!

Jonah Hill is really Jonah Hill Feldstein. His father is one of the biggest names in talent management when it comes to super groups. I believe his older bro is a bigshot in the business as well. That is why you know Jonah Hill, kinda like Adam Levine, like Chris Pine etc. The point being that most folks in Hollywood, just like in every other business, get where they are with a little help (or a lot) by their families.

So, lemme get this straight: Captain America, Spidey and the X-Men were all summer movies, yet summer doesn't start for a week and by then they'll all be long gone from most cinemas.

Yes, it's true. I am a Faux Top One Percenter. It is also true that my breakfast today was a yogurt parfait from McD's and water (from home). Total cost was $1.06.

Could Bob Iger have to answer some difficult questions very soon? C'mon, you heard me say that it's been a VERY good week!

 

[WDW1974]

Barely missed the opening of Co-Op when we were at DTD last week. (And Disney will have to pay me in cold, hard cash to go back there, at least until Disney Springs construction is done...possibly ever. That was a freakin' nightmare between the parking insanity, the mall-at-Christmas crowds and the claustrophobia-inducing construction walls at every turn. You know what you do when you, as a business, have prevented your customers from parking at your glorified mall? You valet park them FOR FREE. You don't try to charge them $25 for valet parking...but I digress.) I think some of the Co-Op stuff is actually cute, but the no dishwasher/no microwave thing is a complete deal breaker. I have a six-year-old, so we end up with cutesy, cheap-o melamine plates and junk all the time. As soon as no one is looking, I slip those babies right into the trash. Worthless. And, agreed--why do I go to WDW to buy a big DISNEYLAND sign (featured prominently in many of the photos from the shop's opening)? Who makes these decisions?

I have nothing to add, but I loved the post from the valet parking right on down to selling giant DL signs at WDW ... so I wanted to repeat it.

 

[the.dreamfinder]

@WDW1974
http://thedissolve.com/features/exposition/613-the-summer-movie-season-is-dead/

 

[WDW1974]

The problem I have noticed with the outlets lately is there selection sucks. They are carrying no where near the amount of product they used to get. At least that is what I have noticed.

I noticed that for about 18 months ... but that started to change in April.

Also, Disney has lost AMS liquidators (based in Tennessee, but known for permanent stores in Fullerton, Pomona, and Las Vegas and temp 'sale' stores across the country) as a viable way to get rid of ... say 2007 pins and 2009 tees. I couldn't help but notice the amazing variety (and quality) of items now at Property Control in Anaheim at 50/75% off original prices (much of the stuff is the same products still for sale at full price in the parks). ... Some of that stuff (Cars Land merchandise, DCA vinyls, photo frames from DLR) is at my local SOUTH FLORIDA mall's outlet. My (hopeful) thinking is that some of that stuff is going to start flowing to the FL outlets.

 

[WDW1974]

No matter who wins, we lose.

Story was planted. Nikki is trying to remain relevant while in litigation with her old site and its owners. UGLY stuff.

Not saying that it won't come down to them, but I know some on the BoD want fresh blood ... and I don't mean dreamy Tom!

 

[Nemo14]

Don't know if it has been talked about, but UNI is hoping for TM previews of Gringotts by Monday.

On the subject of UNI's big development, it looks like it's going to be what we largely thought: a great new area that has best-in-O-Town theming, but also isn't perfect. I've heard about short-sighted moves to cut effects in both Gringotts and on the Hogsmeade Express. But I've also heard that these are still great attractions and should make the masses very happy.

Whylightbulb had some interesting thoughts about it earlier today but he deleted them shortly after posting.

 

[WDW1974]

I think there was a fandom that liked the Iron Man and Spiderman movies, beyond that I'd say there wasn't much crossover.

Pretty much my take as well.

 

[Mike S]

Spirited Friday Musings:

Hey, get off my , I didn't tell you to go bet $2.6 million on the Miami Heat winning Game 4, Floyd!

From the 'It Can't Get Any More Bizarre Than This Yet It Always Does' Dept., my 74-year-old father got carded to get alcohol today and, no, it wasn't a joke. Now, maybe if he had some work he could pass for 64. And if I brought him to a 'doctor' I know in 90210, that could probably be taken down into his late 50s. But c'mon ... REALLY?!?!

Don't know if it has been talked about, but UNI is hoping for TM previews of Gringotts by Monday.

On the subject of UNI's big development, it looks like it's going to be what we largely thought: a great new area that has best-in-O-Town theming, but also isn't perfect. I've heard about short-sighted moves to cut effects in both Gringotts and on the Hogsmeade Express. But I've also heard that these are still great attractions and should make the masses very happy.

(Now, do you think UNI fanbois will take the above as a largely positive post or do you think they'll be taking shots at me in the Twitverse because, much like the pixie dust snorters, it's all positive or nothing?)

Speaking of which, Kong will be too reliant on screens. Sorry, but that is the reality.

I think 'we' need more DVC points. I just can't keep up the travel pace of some of the Lifestylers and it's bringing me down, dude.

Why is it that we can't seem to be able to discuss the Star Wars filming in the UAE? It is Disney. It is current and it is news. ... I can't imagine that anyone here or part of the site believes in the barbaric nature of how women, gays, and others caught in a stone age society are treated. No one is arguing. It certainly isn't political (except for Studio politics), so I'm having trouble understanding. Of course, I also had trouble understanding how Jimmy Thick spent seven or eight years here trolling, so maybe I'm just slow and dimwitted.

Nice to see the DPB run more of @WDWFigment's great pics (now I get why you were at WDW and not DLR for the 24-hour event) ... but let's talk about Erin Glover (I need a nickname for her) and her post about the subs returning at the start of the new fiscal year. Gee, those Miceage dudes were right, after all.

BTW, Star Wars plans for DLR have taken a rather interesting turn and involve existing attractions, but not the ones originally thought. And, no, you won't get a word more out of me until things move further along.

Yes, it's true, the @EPCOT Explorer is up at WDW as an APer for the first time. Please help my 'little buddy' grow his Lifestyler BRAND by saying hey to him if you see him in the parks. He'll be the one getting excited by wall carpeting and the 80s 'thematics' of the Odyssey complex. (BTW, having dined there numerous times in the 80s and 90s, does that make me fanboi royalty?)

So, we are arguing about people who have no business running in serious races, running at Disney events again? Some people will never get the point, even if you hit them over the head with 75 pounds of fat that was lipo'd out of someone who needed to lose a few pounds!

This has been a very good week, and I want to thank all who helped.

Someone sent a note asking when is Frozen happening at EPCOT. I have no solid date. But I wouldn't expect to ride Maelstrom past this fall.

I hope @Lee and Mrs. Lee enjoyed their (short by my standards) vacation. I could take her on LONGER trips, myself!

Jonah Hill is really Jonah Hill Feldstein. His father is one of the biggest names in talent management when it comes to super groups. I believe his older bro is a bigshot in the business as well. That is why you know Jonah Hill, kinda like Adam Levine, like Chris Pine etc. The point being that most folks in Hollywood, just like in every other business, get where they are with a little help (or a lot) by their families.

So, lemme get this straight: Captain American, Spidey and the X-Men were all summer movies, yet summer doesn't start for a week and by then they'll all be long gone from most cinemas.

Yes, it's true. I am a Faux Top One Percenter. It is also true that my breakfast today was a yogurt parfait from McD's and water (from home). Total cost was $1.06.

Could Bob Iger have to answer some difficult questions very soon? C'mon, you heard me say that it's been a VERY good week!

Sad to hear that about Kong, will there be no AA's at all? And Damn Disney for still going forward with Frozen in Norway, it just doesn't make sense how stupid they are. Man am I going to miss that ride

 

[WDW1974]

What's funny is that is completely common at DLR, as it's almost out of the norm to eat in the park. But, it is almost sacrilege at WDW to eat off property.

At DLR, it literally is simple as a short walk. Harbor Blvd is closer to DL, then Contemporary Tower is from MK.

Yet, it's funny. On my trip last month, we ate almost all meals on park days at the parks or DD or the hotels. I think the only exception was a late Monday night run to In N Out.

But DL and DCA have some great food choices. I'm not going to the MK and eating the crap they serve at Pecos Bill's, Cosmic Ray's or Be Our Guest when Chik-Fil-A or Longhorn are close by and much better options.

 

[WDW1974]

I think there is something to this. Putting the movies aside, I think from a theme park standpoint it's more popular now that it has a shot of coming to Disney parks outside of FL. Of course WDW fanboys could have gone up the street and seen Marvel theme park attractions all along.

I'm not sure that the success of the movies is related to the Disney brand. Look at John Carter and Lone Ranger. The little castle in the beginning didn't really help.

True. Although I wonder how folks who criticized The Lone Ranger for being violent and over the top can't say the same about Cap 2.

 

[WDW1974]

Right....

Who needs education and experience? All a person really needs is an anonymous internet account to be an 'expert'.

And what makes you believe, if you do, that folks here are not highly educated and experienced?

 

[aladdin2007]

spirit anything about the Idol show closing Jan 4th thread? or cant really elaborate yet

 

[spacemt354]

@WDW1974
http://thedissolve.com/features/exposition/613-the-summer-movie-season-is-dead/

It's interesting that studios have made May-June 2016 so jam packed, when really any release date nowadays can net a high grossing film.

May 6th, 2016 - Captain America 3 and Batman v. Superman
May 27th, 2016 - X-Men: Apocalypse and Alice in Wonderland 2
June 10th, 2016 - The Amazing Spider-Man 3
June 17th, 2016 - Finding Dory and How to Train Your Dragon 3

Seems like they are doing themselves a disservice by opening up so close together. Perhaps an attempt to bring the Summer Movie Season back?

Note: I expect (hope?) that studios will eventually move some of these release dates. Especially May 6th. I just can't see Warner Bros risking their biggest comic-book film to date.

 

[jt04]

Certain Spirit,

It is all due to the Netflix and The Sopranos. Which is free now on Amazon Prime. The streaming revolution is here.

PS- Your father must be in Pigeon Forge. They have to card everyone.

PSS- I just wanted to make one contribution to your thread because it is kinda sad it is Friday and you are here. I guess I am getting soft in my advanced years. Plus the Heat lost.

OK, gotta go, the valet needs me out of the car and I am running late. Cheerio.

 

[KYWDW]

My work schedule in Orlando freed me up this weekend and I'll be adventuring over to islands. First time ever. Feel proud to be breaking free of my pixie dust coma. . Also, noticed zero universal signs on my drive, but nearly a dozen Disney signs. Found that to be very odd. I usually fly into Orlando so it may be very normal.

UAE seems to only get a stir from Europeans however, forumla 1 is still racing in Abu Dhabi. I've had a friend move out there and instantly regretted it. From what he said that unless you're a social elite you're better off flying under the radar. Money talks and Disney is clearly not beyond giving money to those who treat other human beings... Can't find a nice word, but awful.

 

[RSoxNo1]

Spirited Friday Musings:

Hey, get off my , I didn't tell you to go bet $2.6 million on the Miami Heat winning Game 4, Floyd!

From the 'It Can't Get Any More Bizarre Than This Yet It Always Does' Dept., my 74-year-old father got carded to get alcohol today and, no, it wasn't a joke. Now, maybe if he had some work he could pass for 64. And if I brought him to a 'doctor' I know in 90210, that could probably be taken down into his late 50s. But c'mon ... REALLY?!?!

As a society we have lost the ability to use common sense. The spirit of the law vs. the letter of the law. It's the copy pulling over someone doing 60 in a 55 when the person doing 60 isn't endangering someone, while the person doing 50 in a 55 during a blizzard doesn't get pulled over.

True. Although I wonder how folks who criticized The Lone Ranger for being violent and over the top can't say the same about Cap 2.

I really enjoyed both movies. I bought Lone Ranger and will probably by Winter Soldier. While I liked the first Captain America movie, I liked the second one better. To their levels of violence, I did find the Lone Ranger more violent, but your point is well taken.

 

[jt04]

OK, gotta go, the valet needs me out of the car and I am running late. Cheerio.

OK, I am back. Wrong City Walk.

 

[Smiddimizer]

No matter who wins, we lose.

Don't you just love the conversation going on in the comments section?

 

[Goofyernmost]

I am in agreement with a lot of what you say, but I strongly disagree with this. I live in Nashville and have done the Country Music Half twice (brutal, brutal course), and there was a death a couple of years ago. All of the Rock-n-Roll Halfs like the Country Music are super fun events with concerts and live bands throughout the course, but that doesn't make them less serious. Doing a 13.1 mile race is serious even if it's a fun Disney race (I can't even comprehend how people do a full). It is very punishing to your body, and not properly preparing or think it's just "fun" can cause injury or even death. Around mile 10, it is common to see even seasoned runners dropping like flies.

Of course, it's not Disney's fault if someone doesn't train properly for the race, but they could have better protocols in place to insure that people who haven't trained aren't coddled. They need to be put in a proper corral, and they need to be swept if they can't finish, not given a medal. Giving everyone a medal whether they finish or not just makes more people who shouldn't be in the race sign-up. That's not to punish them, but to keep them and the other runners safe. Also, runners come in every shape and size so it's not a size bias. I am pretty slow (my best time is 3:08...lol!), but I don't overestimate my abilities and I follow good race etiquette so I know that my participation won't hinder other racers.

(Don't get me started on the bozo who decided to propose to his girlfriend right outside the Castle in the middle of the race effectively making hundreds of runners come to a virtual standstill. Rude, rude, rude.)

I agree and understand that many do take it seriously, but the fact that so many run in costume and the simple fact that it is at Disney World creates a mind set that it is fantasy. On the plus side, the good runners should have an easier time to qualify for other marathons since there are so many easy to pass slow ones. Those are mostly in the 5k though, with fewer in the 10k and even fewer that would be foolish enough to sign up for a full marathon.

Again, a very strong indication of the attitude of so many of the participants is fully realized in the proposal story. Disney creates an atmosphere of fun and fantasy. Anyone outside the actual runners do not check the headlines the next day and see who won. It is just not held in a place that screams out... "take me seriously".

I did not create that situation and the fact that Disney themselves obviously have not taken it seriously enough to make sure that all the runners are actually qualified should tell people that this is not a world class venue. In my mind, it is one step up from a mud run. Mud runs are very dangerous because of the track condition, but, it really doesn't make one take it very seriously. It's for fun. I think that it provides a very good outlet for those just sticking their toes into a better, healthier life style to be a part of things in one of their favorite places. If someone is paying a major entrance fee (I don't know what it is and it doesn't really matter) to run in runDisney, the run was just a early morning part of the reason they were there. The rest is because it's Disney World. Completely different mindset. It may be a pain in the posterior for the serious runner, but it is a very good thing for many people that want to be part of something previously out of their reach.

Everyone seems to be disgusted by the fat, couch potato, but, here is a place were they can start to make the transition from that to more healthy things, instead of encouragement, they get looked at as if they were seriel killers. Personally, I cannot imagine that the experienced, trained and fit runners are not well past the slow folks within 5 minutes of the start.