Letters, Author Unknown
 
 

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Saturday, September 22, 2001

[b]"Letters," said writer John Donne, "mingle souls." [/b]


Be part of the solution, not a part of the problem. E-Mail and communicate your thoughts, concerns, and [b]constructive suggestions[/b] to the folks at Disney:

[list]
[*][b][color=red]Disney Guest Services: [url]http://studio.go.com/cgi-bin/gmail/generic_mail.cgi?template=contactus/contact.tpl[/url][/color][/b]
[*][b][color=red]Disney.com [url]http://disney.go.com/Mail/Disneycom/[/url][/color][/b]
[/list]

Before you e-mail, CONSIDER USING THESE GUIDELINES:
[i][URL=http://www.rsad.edu/~dsteilin/Writing%20Studio%20Assignments/Disneystyle.htm]Here[/URL] are Mr. Eisner's thoughts on e-mail that may be helpful in getting your thoughts read and acted upon, instead of ignored or deleted.[/i]

[list]
[*]Be clear and cordial.
[*]Clarity is enhanced with drafting and revising before hitting the SEND button.
[*]Credibility is to be gained with correct spelling. Use the SPELLCHECK button.
[*]Avoid any form of personal attack. Stick to facts. Don't over-dramatize.
[*]Watch your tone. A hostile tone has a way of instantly pushing that DELETE key.
[*]Simple. Clear. Direct.
[/list]

List of Disney executives, as originally posted [URL=http://mousepad.mouseplanet.com/showthread.php?s=&postid=19966]here[/URL]; if snail mail is more your style, write:

Michael D. Eisner
Chairman and CEO,
The Walt Disney Company
500 South Buena Vista Street
Burbank, CA 91521
(818) 560-1000 - Main
(818) 560-1930 - Fax

Roy E. Disney
Director, Chairman of the Board
President, Disney Feature Animation
The Walt Disney Company
500 South Buena Vista Street
Burbank, CA 91521
(818) 560-1000 - Main
(818) 560-1930 - Fax

Mr. Paul Pressler
Chairman & President
Walt Disney Parks & Resorts
500 South Buena Vista Street
Burbank, CA 91521-4873

Cynthia Harriss
President,
The Disneyland Resort
Post Office Box 3232
Anaheim, CA 92803

Michael P. Berry
Senior Vice President,
Disneyland Attractions/Operations/Foods
Post Office Box 3232
Anaheim, CA 92803

Mr. Marty Sklar
Vice Chairman & Principal Creative Executive
Walt Disney Imagineering
1401 Flower Street
Glendale, CA 91221

Disneyland Guest Relations
1313 Harbor Boulevard
Post Office Box 3232
Anaheim, CA 92803

[b]Examples of past letters/e-mails that were likely read and considered:[/b]

Click [URL=http://www2.linuxjournal.com/articles/conversations/0034.html]here[/URL], [URL=http://www.allyoursoaps.com/features/openlettertomichaeleisner.html]here[/URL]and [URL=http://www.coopamerica.org/sweatshops/ssdisneyemail.htmhere[/URL] for examples of CORPORATE ACTION OPEN LETTERS to Micheal Eisner.

Click [URL=http://www.summersault.com/~agj/clr/alerts/disneyhaitifactorytonegotiate.html]here[/URL] for a LETTER to Michael Eisner.

Click [URL=http://catholicleague.com/disney/petition.htm]here[/URL] for a PETITION to Michael Eisner.

More on Eisner & E-mail:
[url]http://www.usc.edu/student-affairs/dt/V140/N01/02-messaeg.01c.html[/url]
[url]http://www.fool.com/news/2000/foth000515.htm[/url]
[url]http://sanfrancisco.bcentral.com/sanfrancisco/stories/2000/09/25/focus4.html[/url]

Friday, September 21, 2001

"What is that love which is based on greed? When there is greed, the love is false."

Not a pin collector, I've only seen one person wearing a lanyard at Disneyland; apparently, my attention is focused elsewhere. By reading this thread, however, I've been introduced to a whole new Disney subculture.

My reaction: I can't help loving Classroom Earth/Classroom Disney even more for the unexpected lessons provided:

Lessons about misbehavior motivated by simple greed. We couldn't ask for better textbook examples to teach our kids (and the kids within ourselves) of how NOT to be.

Let's face it, inherent selfishness is present in everybody. In me. Yes, in you. In the most perfect of us. It's healthy when it drives each of us to provide for and to protect ourselves. Greed is inherent selfishness gone awry, without restraint. Most unhealthy.

Misbehaving pin traders provide prime illustrations of greed in action. Going beyond actual needs, from what you describe, they have little, if any, regard for others. They are without respect for their country and world. They serve as examples in the flesh of people blinded by illusion, caught up by materialism and egoism.

They also serve as examples of the consequences of greedy misbehavior. Look at the alienation and rifts they cause. Look at the negativity they create. Look at the quality of their lives. Pitiful, in my eyes. I wouldn't want any one of them as my best friend, would you?

There is always justice: A person who treats others poorly is reflecting how he/she treats his/her Self. Notice how persons who treat others well are far happier and at ease, reflecting also the way they treat their happy, secure Selves?

A question to ask: is my love for pins based on love (for Disney, for a beloved character, for an attraction, for its symbolism)... or on greed?

If it is based on love, even if I am not a collector of things, I support your true love 110%!

Wednesday, September 19, 2001

Your local stores plumb out of Old Glory? Has the run on flags made you blue?

Flying the flag is the one tangible thing you can do to show your support for the victims and for the country. If you can't buy `em, you can make `em:

Here's a flag for you to print out. Source: Las Vegas Review Journal.

And one morehere.
Yet another for you to pin on your lapelhere. Source: Honolulu Advertiser

Here's one for your desktop.

Bring an American flag cake... or pie...strawberry and blueberry pavlova... to the office or coffee klatch. The kids will love the red, white and blue rocket popsicles.

Here's a flag that you can sear into your retina to get The Stars & Stripes. Very creative. Click on the word LOOK, then stare at center of the top flag for a minute, then look below it. Very cool.


"I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands.
One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."



Your friends will know you better in the first minute you meet them than your acquaintences will know you in a thousand years.
~ Richard Bach, ILLUSIONS



The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other's life....Rarely do members of one family grow up under the same roof.
~ Richard Bach, ILLUSIONS

Even if I was banished to the darkest place, my love will never let me be a lonely spirit.
~ Li Mu Bai, CTHD

Wherever you go, go with all your heart.
~ Confucius

You're adorable, Jrob. I want to send you off with some thought-out tips for college, but I'm right between projects at the moment, so they're just going to spew out off the top of my head.


You asked for tips for college. You got it, Jrob. These are my TOP 3:

[b]1. Keep focused.[/b]

[b]Your job in college is to [COLOR=red]the best student[/COLOR] you can be.[/b] A student is one who studies. What a concept![/b]

Make it easy on yourself. [b]Today[/b], prioritize your time and activities according to that primary job and its responsibilities. Believe it or not, ALL else is secondary.

You won't fight with yourself with every choice, and believe me, every day you will be be tempted to stray. By setting your priorities (yes, [b]write them down and keep them where you can see them[/b]), you'll make the smarter decisions with greater clarity and ease. (I kept a copy pinned to my bulletin board in front of my desk and another in my bag)

For example: Do I study for that mid-term, or do I go out with the gang for pizza and beer? Do I surf the 'Net for hours, or do I get my butt to the library and get started on that paper? Do I concentrate on raising my GPA, or do I spend my time on being Big Frat Boy/Girl on Campus? Do I take that slacker class that means nothing to me, or do I take that harder class that will help me in my life/job?

I am not advocating total nerdom. Being a social isolate will only hurt you in the long run. Do engage yourself in college and people activities; they'll keep you balanced, well-rounded, and meeting people who will be lifetime friends. Wisely allocate time and energy in proportion to your set priorities, while still having lots of fun.

As I write this, I am still saddened when I think of two of my freshman year buds. Like you, bright, full of promise with big dreams. One had his heart set on being a doctor; a caring guy, he would have been a great one. But, he blew that by choosing partying over his studies. He chose too much fun. Another wanted to be an attorney like his dad; he blew it by getting caught up with drug experimentation. Fried his brain.

[b]2. Keep all your options open.[/b]

As an undergraduate, I went through three majors, ending up with a double major in Psych and Art History. Had I been inflexible and stuck to my first major (boring!), I would have cheated myself out of a great life without regrets.

Here's a TERRIFIC way to get a head start on figuring out what fields are compatible with [b]who you are[/b] as a person: http://www.keirsey.com/frame.html

Many colleges and universities use this temperament sorter to help undeclared majors find their right niche. Lessen the chance of being that frustrated round peg trying to fit a square hole. To me, taking this test should be a requirement for every entering freshman. I will guarantee you this: the few minutes you spend taking it will help you to make your lifetime decisions.

I'm glad I did. And my job suits me to a T. I love it. BTW, if I sound like a counselor, it's me being an INFJ. This is exactly me: http://keirsey.com/personality/nfij.html


[b]3. Acquire study skills NOW, not after the fact (i.e., bad grades, desperation, panic, depression).[/b]

I was lucky enough to come across a flier advertising a study skills class. Scrounging up the money to take it, it turns out, was of my best investments -- ever. What a significant positive effect it had on my college performance, and ultimately, my life goals.

During my years in college, I saw many bright -- even brilliant -- students slam shut too many doors of opportunity, thereby compromising their goals, and settling for less. Sadly, a few even flunked out of college, because they lacked the most basic of study skills. Their lives got grimmer, harder.

These days, you can obtain these skills, online. And the price to lay these good foundations is right: tuition-free!
http://www.miracosta.cc.ca.us/info/admin/studserv/tutor/Study%20Skills/contents.htm

In short, there are other valuable tips, including those shared by others here. For me, these three held me in good stead. I think the best attestation of their positive influences is: one day, when I retire, I want to go back to school full-time. I loved the entire process of learning, interacting with like- and unlike-minded people, and thinking with abandon. No heavy-duty life responsibilities and obligations. I had so much fun, lots of adventures and got to know fantastic people, without compromising my goals.

Nothing but positive thoughts heading your way...

Monday, September 17, 2001

I agree with you, Morrigoon.

These two commentaries provide TMI! (TOO MUCH INFORMATION!)

Those who write openly, not only disclosing Disney security weaknesses, but pinpointing them to EVERYONE are not using common sense. You are adding to the pages of an open guide book for terrorism, one that is not only easily accessible to terrorists but to kooks and copycatters.

Oprah commented on this very thing today on her program. We have to keep our mouths shut on security information, as this info has the potential to do more harm than good. She thinks we have too many big mouths in the press who put the rest of us at risk. She thinks they should just shut up already.

Some people get a huge sense of self-importance by showing everyone how much they know, that they have insider information or "the scoop". With matters of sensitive security issues, it is common sense to FIRST communicate PRIVATELY to those who can do something about them. Or address them in general, less specific terms.

Too much harm can be wreaked by excessive blabbermouthing. Restraint is in order.

"Now is the time for thinkers to think," said Maya Angelou. It is also time for blabbers to zip up those loose lips.

My two Knuts.

An American flag lifted me out the darkness of these last few days.

It was only a little over a month ago when I had last viewed the finale float float of The Electrical Light Parade at Disney California Adventure: TO HONOR AMERICA. Then, in peacetime, I viewed it with a light heart. In innocence.

Last night, I caught the first glimpse of the approaching float with a heavy heart, tears welling up. This is one long float, extending 108 feet. With every passing foot, I felt my spirits being lifted.

I was dazzled by the American flag of red, white and blue lights, which seemed to shine brighter. I was stirred by the songs, "Oh Columbia, the Gem of the Ocean," "Yankee Doodle" and " The Stars and Stripes Forever"; I had barely listened last time.

I perceived the simulated overhead fireworks as more brilliant and dramatic than before; the American bald eagle bringing up the rear, more symbolic and strong.

I joined the viewing crowd with upbeat, yet respectful applause.

For those in the area, I hope you will experience this uplift for yourself. I assure you, it will be a different experience than your last viewing. For those who are further away, here are a couple of MousePlanet links to photos of TO HONOR AMERICA:

http://www.mouseplanet.com/images/wdwmsep/honor1.jpg

http://www.mouseplanet.com/images/wdwmsep/honor2.jpg

"Oh Columbia, the gem of the ocean, The home of the brave and the free, The shrine of each patriot's devotion, A world offers homage to thee..."

Sunday, September 16, 2001

Within seconds of seeing the second plane crashing into the WTC, I had no doubt that these were acts of terrorism. Like you and everyone else, I had no way of knowing if we were the next targets.

I knew my neighbors were likely mesmerized by their televisions, eyes frozen on the images on the screen. Having grown up with more natural disaster experiences than most will experience in several lifetimes, painful memories of sirens, casualties and deprivation arose. Civil Defense workers became our best friends by training us, even as children, to become disaster-prepared. These experiences and subsequent lessons have served me well, making me aware of the consequences of unpreparedness.

I was able to unglue my eyes from the screen and mobilize myself into Emergency mode.

Although disaster-prepared with barrels of water, food, camp stove and lanterns, first aid supplies and generator, I knew my neighbors are not. I sent my husband to the neighborhood supermarket to pick up additional provisions, with the words, "If we can't help ourselves and our neighbors, we can't help others beyond us. And don't forget another bag of dog food."

Knowing water is key to survival and water sources could be targets, I filled water receptacles and placed them in empty spaces in the refrigerator and freezer. I filled up the bathtubs, so the dogs would have a supply, if we were stranded at work. No drinking out of the toilets for them, if I could help it.

By the way, folks, do [b]YOU[/b] know how much water to store for ANY emergency?

[b][COLOR=royalblue]A good rule of thumb is: ONE GALLON PER PERSON PER DAY FOR 7 DAYS (MINIMUM). A three week supply of water is ideal.[/COLOR][/b]

More info: [url]http://www.lafd.org/eqwater.htm[/url]

Yesterday, we followed through on plans made months ago. Both of us are in helping fields, and we were recertified for CPR. Consider getting trained; it's something you hope you never have to use. But you have to, CPR may prove invaluable for yourself and your families. Here are basics: [url]http://depts.washington.edu/learncpr/[/url]

One important tip was given that we had not thought of...in today's world of blood-borne pathogens, keep pairs of rubber gloves handy. Those of us who are naturally inclined to help others [b]must[/b] keep in mind that we are of no help to ourselves, our family, and our community if we end up with HIV.

When helping others with injuries, use gloves as a possibly life-saving precautionary measure! As our trainer said, "Every car even has a special place for rubber gloves...the glove compartment."

For those who wish to be [b]better prepared[/b], this is a great site put together by the Los Angeles Fire Department: [url]http://www.lafd.org/eqindex.htm[/url]

For those with [b]pets[/b], this is a terrific site by the ASPCA:
[url]http://www.aspca.org/weekly.asp?section=help[/url]

I offer this information to you, my MP friends, not to incite more fear, but as a good neighbor. In many ways, these last few days, you have become a part of my community. You've been there at my fingertips. I want you and yours safe and sound.