I Reminisce

Back in Da Day!



I remember when Burger King use to be Nathans.
Man! It was one of my favorite places.

When the diner would sing
From a jukebox machine
And it was full of familiar faces.
From the pins in my jeans
To the stitch pleated seams
And boys sneaked a peak at playboy magazines.
When skelly was the thing

And punch ball was the king
Sound of the Mr. Softy theme
Would send us all off to the races!
When it was quarter water drinks
And roller skating rinks.
It was pilot marker inks
And fat Gucci links,
When sewer caps use to be bases.
When Friday meant school was over soon
Early morn' Saturday cartoons
And they wouldn't serve warrants on Sunday afternoons
And graffiti filled my black book pages.
  
  When what was done was done
  When what happened; happened
  When fun was fun
  When laughing was laughing

We were kids in the hall
When life was a ball
As I know recall
It was when problems ..... really weren't problems at all!

Happy Anniversary !

Lucky 13

Over the years there are days that have become annual traditions, celebrations, family gatherings, birthdays, etc. Needless to say we have two marriage dates; one contractual December 11, 2006, the other sacramental March 20, 2010. Though both hold significance neither are as close to my heart as these days May 13^th and May 17^th. It was these two dates that have altered the course of my life for the better. And I wouldn’t exchange the worst day of my life in fear it would change my destiny and deprive me of the opportunity of spending my life with you.

First Kiss

May 13^th, 2000. Two beautiful young ladies and a 27 year old arrogant immature fool hopped into Anthony Rivera’s hooptie (no offense Boogie, it got us there and back brother) and drove to Six Flags Great Adventure. We laughed and bonded, two young hearts, freshman in college looking to make our mark. I was mesmerized by you; taken aback by your determination, self confidence and of course YOU WERE SEXY BABY! We did not have a care in the world and with every passing glance and bright smile I fell for you more. Looking back now, riding on the Ferris wheel was the moment when I fell in love with you. I hated Ferris wheels, I was scared; I tried not to show it but I knew, you knew. It was there in that first moment of shared intimacy and vulnerability that you won my heart.

HORSE n CARRIAGE

May 17^th, 2000. I dressed to the nines that night. The best suit and tie I ever owned; polished shoes, fresh cut and shave plus enough cologne to choke elephant. I had a plan girl…a surprise in my coat pocket that I knew would touch your soul; tickets to Disney’s Broadway production of Beauty and the Beast. I remembered you telling me in theater class how much you loved the animation version and new the words to all the songs. I was confident we would have a great time and surprise since the thought was we were going to see Aida for a class project. Little did we know it would ignite a love of theater and art that would spark our globetrotting adventures! You looked stunning, elegant and way out of my league. After the show we ate at the Olive Garden (I Didn’t know any better). I never enjoyed a meal so much! Then we strolled through Times Square and walked around the city, taking in the surroundings as if it was the first time I ever seen these streets. In many ways I was viewing the city for the first time; from a whole new perspective. Then…the horse and carriage ride. I messaged your feet to ease the pain from walking in those sexy heels. And that’s when I realized …you had fallen in love with me.

Love and Marriage

Our relationship began like a hurricane; fast and furious we fell madly in love and never looked back. Most of the people around us thought we were moving to quick; told us to slow it down. No one ever got to define our happiness but us. Now 13 years, 2 kids, two cars, 3 cats, 4 dogs and a house later I love you more than I ever did. Being at your side as you have accomplished so much has been a privilege. From Community college to St. Johns University and then a masters from Fordham University. Years of service to the needy and less fortunate.   

You are a caring and nurturing mother to the greatest gifts I have ever received. You have brought me closer to God and strengthened my faith. You have bore the brunt of my deepest frustrations and insecurities. And for that I am truly sorry!

You have given me self worth, focus, purpose and supported my ambitions when all others have forsaken them. I am imperfect in more ways than I care to admit. It is impossible to ever express through words, actions or economics the love and devotion I feel for you. Whatever life has in store for me, I know with you by my side we will overcome all obstacles in our way.

Thank you!

Your loving, devoted and loyal husband!

THE OUTSIDER

Searching for Caesar Sanchez.

In 2 Days, bags will be checked, screenings will be past and boarding will begin for a flight to Santiago, Dominican Republic; where a reunion with a man barely known, have rarely seen or spoken too and at most have spent 10 days together; will take place. Staring into the mirror this morning shaving grey hairs and noting the lines that have formed, the realization struck; I am far from the little boy and teenager who so eagerly needed mentoring and guidance through confusing years. And though the time for throwing the football around has past like so many other father son activities all boys absent a dad dream of experiencing, there is still time to share, bond, grow and love. At least that is what I tell myself …over and over again.

 

THIS JUNGLE WE CALL NYC

 There are no denials there has been this missing part that has eluded understanding for far too long; casting a shadow over my subconscious. Years of angst, resentments, feelings of abandonment and emotions that are beyond description.  They have manifested from the lack of a relationship and communication with my biological father. During the course of my journeys I have encountered and befriended many men such as myself. The Outsiders. The outcasts. The ones who were always searching for guidance in this jungle we call NYC. Perhaps that is why so many of us were drawn together, maybe that’s why we hold these Fathers Day’s gatherings so close to our hearts. To give our children the adoration we missed as kids, to stand together as fathers recognizing each others parental devotion and proudly saying

“I am going to be there for them; and my kids are

going to know there father loves them”.

    
     Together we acknowledge the involved fathering we give to our kids but never were fortunate enough to receive ourselves. Men of kindred philosophies, sent out to learn every lesson on our own, the HARD WAY!

  
    These commonalities have bonded us and brought us closer as we unified attempts to provide a foundation, supporting communities and family structure most of us have been deprived of. Sadly most of my brethren are of Hispanic decent, not all….but most! A pandemic that is now the responsibility of Generation X, the generation of latch key kids to cowboy up and mend the fences that so many of our fathers failed to do. To build, to construct with patience, compassion and forgiveness a connection for the betterment of our offspring; maybe they can be better grandparents if given the opportunity?

 

FRESH STARTS AND BRIGHT BEGINNINGS

 Deep down I always wondered how my father was doing. Was he alive? Healthy? Does he ever think about me? After countless searches with fruitless results, now I get to answer those questions. I get to see my father as a man, as a father myself for the first time since I can remember. So long I have a 20 year old sister I have never met. Who has been more inviting and generous then I could have ever imagined. And aunts, uncles and cousins who have embraced me so passionately it has brought me to tears on repeated occasions.

Those of you who know me…are aware of my documented past. Many of us carry heavy baggage and the thought of at this point in life trusting someone new is worrisome. To those who do not know me yet, please don’t let the trials and tribulations of my past cloud your judgment of my future.

I feel blessed to have the opportunity to reconcile with my father, my sister and an entire family I had thought lost only four weeks ago. Not many get this chance! That is why I will cherish these moments, with the thoughts of all the friends I have had the pleasure of knowing that share my dilemma. I am sensitive to the fact a generation has past for my father as well and that he might not want or need the same things I do in a relationship. But that is love…putting yourself out there and allowing the other person the chance to either hurt you or return the love.  

I am more nervous and scared now then I can ever remember being?

Holla @ ur boy if you feel me!

Dude! Where's My Job?

CALLING ALL DETECTIVES! PUTTING OUT AN APB FOR EMPLOYMENT.

Occupations intertwined with print media will see their demand and importance decline over the coming decade, affecting a range of fields. Newspapers in particular will continue to see diminishing circulation. As more individuals convert to hand held mobile internet devices, the convenience of having instant access to real-time news from multiple sources will hurt paper news sales. With the advancement of technology and adhering to Moore’s Law[1] ; over the next decade the speed and power will increase while the cost decreases becoming more affordable, widening the consumer base. Advertisers have recognized the growing trend and are redirecting marketing dollars to online content providers. As revenues and profits for print media plunges, occupations such as beat reporters, columnist and sports writers will see their ranks thinned.

      Print Media: Don't Call It A  Comeback:


Those peripheral fields that heavily rely on printing presses a blazing, will cease rising in importance and necessity. The ink industry, paper manufacturers and printing companies alike will shrink. The men and women laboring in print facilities are sure to see jobs lost as circulation continues to shift towards digital subscriptions. News paper delivery persons and newsstands risk becoming obsolete sooner than later.  The same can be said for the paper books, magazines and textbook industry.

                           GOODBYE MR. POSTMAN

Another industry or entity victimized by technology and assured a perpetual downward spiral is the United States Postal Service. The need for snail mail is already outdated and hanging on by a thread because mass marketing junk mailers who won’t let go. As internet access spreads and broadband connection speeds multiply, the amount of paid postage mail will evaporate. The USPS generated $66 billion of revenue during 2011[2]; $1.9 billion in salaries and benefits per week. They employ an equivalent of 19 thousand full time employees all coordinating a massive postal delivery infrastructure.  Total retail revenue and customer visits have decreased all but one year[3] over the last 10 years. The U.S. postal service pays United Parcel Service and Federal Express to deliver in excess of 400 million packages each year. Outsourcing so large a portion of their business is not the actions of a market leader. If the USPS was a private company in 2011 they would have ranked 35^th.  Many if not all these jobs will be lost with increased e-mail use and never return. Postmasters, service clerks and security personal are just 3 occupations affected every time a new Blackberry or I-Phone is purchased. Technologically advanced mechanisms are displacing labor workers and thinning their rank and file as well. New century sorting devices and high end scanners are more efficient and cost effective than their human counterparts. Self-serve kiosks are replacing clerks and cashiers who once processed mail and sold postage. Machines do not need healthcare, vacations or personal days; all costs that drive down profits and will eventually lead to more job loss. A pandemic poisoning service industries and reducing labor forces at a more rapid rate than new jobs are being created. Technological advancement comes with a cost!

URBAN AGRICULTURE - VERTICAL GROWING

A field that will rise in demand and importance will be urban agriculture. To be more specific, urban roof top horticulture. An ever rising population needs an ever increasing food supply. The cost of petroleum trickles down to the items stocked on shelves in the aisles of stores patronized by everyday consumers. Locally grown vegetables and fruits have competitive advantages over large farmers who must take into account spoilage when pricing their goods. The price at the gas pump with the addition to salaries of long distance transportation, the specialized equipment necessary to ensure fresh delivered produce and the final packaging all affect the check out price when scanned at a kiosk. Another advantage is local restaurant operators, produce retailers, fruit and veggie stands can order strand specific tomatoes, apples, herbs and spices etc. in order to bring a more unique culinary experience for customers. Locavores[4] are growing demographic and combined with today’s conscious eaters who pay premiums for healthy alternatives; this niche market will be expanded upon; perhaps even adopted by the mass public. With relative low start off costs and little overhead, landlords who would enjoy lining their pockets with profits from a space underutilized and generating no income; this sector will see job growth.

 GARBAGE ANYONE?

Another occupation sure to rise in importance is waste collection and disposal. The field is vast and has many opportunities for employment growth. Scientists are needed to research and develop long-term solutions for waste disposal. They are also responsible for creating new innovative safety measures that are necessary in protecting the environment. Drivers and handlers will be in demand for the physical collection and handling of waste. Administrative positions will need expanding; to coordinate the partnerships with commercial districts, residential districts, mixed zones and city officials for cost effective, safe and efficient waste management. Engineers will be needed to construct mechanisms for collection, transportation, recycling and disposal. Waste is a field of employment that will be in demand and grow in importance into the next decade.
JasonSanchez.com
blogivore.wordpress.com

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[1] http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/moore%27s%20law

[2] http://about.usps.com/who-we-are/postal-facts/welcome.htm#H1

[3] 2005

[4] http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/locavore

War Lords & Death Mongers

CAN”T KNOCK THE HUSTLE

The hustle and bustle of the lowly struggling to make ends meet and living hand to mouth; leaves them too poor and tired to enjoy the “Fine Evenings” (Brecht, 10). The more people ponder where they are from and where is there final destination, the less time and energy they can spend contemplating the decisions those at the top are making. Holding leaders accountable becomes less and less important when daily struggles routinely preoccupy thoughts.
Distractions overload the senses from all angles penetrating most defenses. Subliminally, economically and existentially people are bombarded with images meant to jade consciences into a Leviathan Sleep. In Bertolt Brecht’s’ poem “From A German War Primer” he references people being so consumed by divided attention they do not realize the cost of their apathy. Unfortunately, warfare has become common place among the many global territories and is familiar to all due to this impassivity.

STOP CHASING YOUR TAIL...

This merry-go-round of confusion and deceit continues to bamboozle generation after generation, regardless the party of majority or type of government. Systems are created with the intent on burdening citizens with little to no income. Obstacles within these bureaucracies’ prevent a larger percentage of the less privileged and financially strapped individuals’ from breaking through and achieving upward intra-generational mobility. Educational debt, mortgage debt, car debt, credit card debt have become modern day slavery. Conflicts across the globe and calls for patriotism blinds eyes. Gone are the days of discrimination against ethnicity, culture, religion et cetera. Currently, populations are segregated economically creating a de-facto-castesystem. The rich continue to prosper; the middle class continue make the rich richer and the poor are strategically sacrificed pawns meant to frighten the middle class to continue enriching the most fortunate sons[i] of society.“The house painter speaks of great times to come” and mass public falls in line (Brecht, line 76). These house painting representatives stand at pulpits preaching anxiety and separatism. Underneath their sleeves they are armed with a plethora of tools in the shed of mass public psychological warfare that never fail. Fear and legislation are the ones utilized most often with effective results.
 
TAKE ME TO YOUR LEADER

Oct. 30, 1938: The Martians Have Landed in New Jersey![ii] This radio broadcast might not have been meant to incite mass panic and hysteria but the lessons learned during this accidental social experiment were archived and expanded upon. Media has been an effective device used to deliver which ever generational fear is most successful in manipulating the public.
Starting in 1960’s thru 80’s United States and British school children were shown propaganda films informing them of the safety procedures during an atomic fall out. [iii] Ironic, since it was the U.S. who actually dropped not one but two A. bombs on Japan.[iv]
Not long after the dust settled from ozone layer holes caused by hair spray, nuclear arms races and space wars, a new fear emerged, Y2K.[v]  Today, terrorism is the new global enemy “Either your with us or your with the terrorist” (George Bush II, 9/20/2011). Justifiable collateral damage accepted in the name of freedom and the preservation of it. People are sold a democracy of meritocracy based on a minuscule number of rags to riches stories. In reality it is a crony-capitalism controlled by an oligarchy only concerned with self-enrichment.

OPPRESSION THRU LEGISLATION

Laws are an effective tools used to control the overall population; minimizing the rights and opportunities of many in society; while maximizing the impunity of others in the overwhelming numerical minority.  Elected public servants speak disingenuous rhetoric provoking and igniting emotions in the mass public they are sworn to act in the best interest of. Done while double and triple playing demographics against one another. Focusing on the differences that distinguish humans rather than championing the similarities’ that binds.

CHANGE IS  A COMIN’  – WAKE ME WHEN IT GETS HERE

Perpetrated under a banner of change; a common place rally cry shouted at nausea rendering it cliché. Only to be betrayed and sold-out by officials in the cigar smoked filled air of grandiose board rooms. Cap toe shoes resting on tables the monetary cost of a modest neighborhood home default-mortgage.  Written off as an expense by some book cooking legal eagle dressed in a dark navy, two button single pleated 200’s wool suit. Red, white and blue striped tie accompanied by a die cast metal American flag pinned to a 2 ½ inch open notch lapel symbolizing their patriotism and loyalties.

THE HOODS OF POPULOUS EXTREMISM :

   Every step of the way promoting populous extremism’s wrapped around core ethical values. Highlighting integrity and hot stove non-issue issues then selling Nations dignities and cultural identities through austerity measures backed financially by some central bank or International Monetary Fund. In-debting future generations with out there consent guaranteeing their obligations will be so great that escaping the chains of ascribed status is minimal and inconsequential. Corporations granted more human rights than some of the conquered countries propped up dictators’ offer their citizens; put in power by taxpayer dollars. Some legal entities generating revenue streams and assets exceeding some Nations gross domestic production.

GET YOUR HAND OUT OF MY POCKET!
   
Politicians should be forced to wear uniforms like
NASCAR drivers; so their corporate sponsors’ are easily identifiable[vi]. The rights to collectively bargain is systematically being stripped and outlawed state by state, continent by continent until entire work forces worldwide are subjugated to At-will employment[vii]; subservient to their corporate masters. Abortion, Civil unions and privacy et cetera are smoke screens to camouflage the fires burning from the destruction caused by smart weapons of war. Issues shocking the consciences’ of people; occupying their thoughts and energy while financial brain trusts loot and pillage; pirates masquerading as the Smartest Guys in the Room[viii]. Banking bailouts and Ponzi schemes lead to rescue plans and stimulus packages.

CAPITAL GAINS VS ENTITLEMENTS

Corporate double taxation and capital gains are terms linked to food stamp administrations and entitlements.   The warfare between the working and investment class is creating divisions among citizens, building resentment that might result in mass backlash and unrest; further stifling recovery. When the checks begin bouncing and accounts are over drawn war will be on the horizon. “The war that is coming is not the first” (Brecht, 26). It is a vicious cycle of oppression in which history continues to repeat itself.
“The bombs being dropped on the jungles of Vietnam were exploding in the ghettos and barrios of America” (Why I oppose the war in Vietnam, Dr. King). Trillions of taxpayer dollars spent on development and deployment of intelligent weapons aimed at bringing liberty and justice for all!  “Got money for war but can’t feed the poor” (Keep Your Head Up, Shakur). As these funds are being allocated families struggle with mortgages, students bogged down by educational debt that was free to all before desegregation. In many instances exceeding the earning potential academic erudition provides. Education is the most universal resource used in obtaining financial freedom and it is being slowly but surely taken from those daring to do more.                                                                         
MILITARY SPENDING WITHOUT LIMITS:

Military budgets are limitless and educational funds are reduced and threatened annually. Those who lack spiritual currency, succumb to moral bankruptcy and use all means available to pollute the minds of the young and old.  A generation desensitized and trained by first person shooter simulations designed to bring modern warfare into living rooms everywhere in the form of online games of war. Building a new century centurion army by educating offspring in weapons use in between pauses to use the potty and take naps. Passive aggressive military recruitment thru virtual cultivation  via entertainment consoles wrapped and marketed in this years’ hottest new must have video game. An obvious perpetuating of destructive policies placated with an advisory stamp. Children becoming well versed in major historical conflicts and the infinite ways wars are waged. Compromises made for the latest multi-tasking technological soon-to-be outdated diversion provides a false sense of social connection to the whole. Out of sight is out of mind, trapped within the confines of a surrealist oil painting brush stroked by Dali representing a modern day interpretation inspired by Lord of the Flies[ix]. Being technologically advancement does not equate to an enlightened civilized society.

Flames Burn Eternal at Militaristic Tributes near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Governments controls thru warfare.  Privatizing natural resources belonging to the aborigine. Depleting lands and redistributing profits to shareholders instead of being reinvested improving the opportunities for residents’. The U.S. military is not a poor man’s force[x] when unemployment rises the educated enlist. The blood of patriots[xi] stain battlefields turned cemeteries’ where agriculture once flourished; now lined with tombstones engraved with the name Brother, Husband, Father and Son. Sacrifices taken for granted, sworn never to be forgotten. A flame burns eternal, flames burn eternal at militaristic tributes near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier[xii]. Pomp and circumstance, changing of the guard; it’s a great tourist photography opportunity that can be instantly uploaded to a glorified over-valued on-line obituary. Shows everywhere traveled, endless times of opulence; more than enough to make x number of friends envious and validate self-existence. Tallying popularity by total current followers times countless friend acceptances forthcoming. New virtual realities are fast in development. Prototypes are being tested. Pseudo environments and internet identities pacifying married couples and conflict born orphans. Barons’ raid the temple; accepted by presuppositions of helplessness and inability to positively affect the hive.

WHAT IN GOD’S NAME IS GOING ON?  The more things change the more things stay the same!

Until a paradigm shift in consciences occurs’ planet wide the status quo will continue. There must be consequences for the choices and decisions those at the top have made that negatively impact constituents. Social dissonance is necessary in bringing about public awareness and spotlighting the corruption that poisons the well. Apathy and appeasement border on behavior reserved for traitors and anti-humanist. Bills will be passed in the coming decade that will solidify bureaucratic caste systems handicapping the less sophisticated. Unalienable rights and pursuit of happiness guarantees are up for debate; threatening to be reneged and undone by extremists on the left and right side of the aisle. Obstacles put in place will not be easily altered thru the casting of a ballot. Denial is a state of ignorance forgivable until “Facing it” (Facing It, Komunyakaa).

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[vii] http://legal-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/Employment+at+Will

[viii] Enron :Smartest Guys IN The Room -2005

[x]The data shows the force is more educated than the population at large. More service members have some college than the typical 18- to 24-year-olds. On the socioeconomic side, the military is strongly middle class. http://usmilitary.about.com/od/recruitingstatistics/Military_Recruiting_Statistics.htm

[xi] The tree of Liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.-
—Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826)
Letter to William S. Smith (1787)

The Disney Secrets

            THE TOY STORY

               Two to three times monthly a group of Disney cast members from different factions of the conglomerate gather for brainstorming sessions lasting 2 or 3 days. The cast members are personally chosen by Chris Heatherly, 34 and Len Mazzocco, 53; a duo paired by top executives in June 2006. These think tanks are carefully structured to bring employees together under one umbrella and manifest relationships that are creative and innovative in nature. These forums for an open exchange of ideas have led to a market leading toy division that revamps its product lines every six months. This has turned out to be a remarkably well run performance process that has doubled revenue since June 2006 and it is no accident.

              THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF DISNEY

                 The planning of this creative process is well thought out and executed. Having participants from all the various sectors of the Walt Disney Company casting pool to choose from is a competitive advantage Disney has over all other media companies; from artist to theme park cast members and everything in between that can be imagined. After selecting group members, schedule conflicts must be resolved and location must be decided. The syncing of everyone’s schedule is no small undertaking; transport and lodging must be aligned with the groups travel schedules. Conference room locations have to be chosen and all parties need proper directions and times of the forty to sixty minute brainstorming sessions. Management also implements various ice-breaking meet and greet techniques so that there is an opportunity for the group to get familiarized with one another. The organization of all these activities is meticulous; package materials are distributed to all individuals with travel information, airport transportation, lodging, resort check-in and luggage handling followed by a bit of down time to adjust and unwind. A second itinerary is now distributed to all individuals with group meeting places and time information, local activities and attractions for enjoying their personal time. The ice breakers that get the ball rolling so to speak are management leading employees by initiating communication with one another. Encouraging participants to think outside the box without the pressures of deadlines helps prevent groupthink. The employees are separated into smaller groups to create a sense of comfort so that non-creative workers would not be intimidated when grouped with a Disney veteran who might have various specialty skill sets. Each group is equipped with an artist, empowering their creative juices and giving visualization to the concepts and ideas being developed. Employees feel valued when equipped with the tools to realize the tasks their presented with. Having an artist at their disposal is a signal from management that their belief and confidence in their abilities are sincere.

            

 YOU WIN SOME YOU LOSE SOME 

        
     Not every idea makes it to the assembly line. After each of session Heatherly and Mazzocco expect to have fifty new product ideas. These concepts are recalled and refined a second and third time during future think-tank getaways. The third process is a fully fledged prototype. Again, achieving prototype status is no guarantee that the toy will be placed in mass production. This is management practicing the control principle. Weeding out the less practical and choosing the most potentially profitable creations to be manufactured and distributed. This extensive creation process is responsible for half of their product line. (Joseph, 2009)

2009, CEO Bob Iger hired a new chairman to head Disney Studios, Rich Ross (Finke, 2009). Less than a month into his new position Ross proceeded to overhaul Disney Studios letting go and replacing many veteran executives who were considered safe in their jobs. This brazen restructuring was controversial and broad as over twenty studio employees were fired. Iger co-signed the shake-ups and had some key strategic planning revisions that were to be implemented immediately. For instance, the CEO believed the ninety day period traditional movies waited before being made available to DVD was too long. At the Walt Disney Company, house cleaning is a form of controlling. Executives are responsible and accountable for the increases or decreases in revenues on their watch. Ross knew this; after all he was replacing a four decade long employee of Disney in Dick Cook. Rich Ross had a difficult time adjusting to the movie business division; hiring MT Carney to head Marketing only to fire Carney shortly afterwards. He had rousing success in television but it did not translate into his new position. Experience became a weakness internally and posed external threats as competitors gained advantage with stability. Too many rookie executives filling too many important positions led to reduced profits. Eventually, someone has to fall on their sword. Such was the case 4/20/12, when Rich Ross resigned as Disney Studios Chairman (Reporter, 2012). The irony of this event was that the historical $200 million write off Disney made for “John Carter” and had Ross reaching for the pen to ink a resignation letter; was a project green lit by his predecessor Cook. To toss salt into the wounds two weeks later Marvel Studios, a fantastic acquisition of Igers’ that is paying immediate dividends, set the all time box office opening weekend record in Hollywood land, with the Avengers (CNN Wire, 2012). Regardless of who Okays what project or how successful and distinguished a resume, management is judged by their latest results or lack thereof.

          

THE CRUISE SHIP FLEET

 

      Nowhere is planning more prevalent than in its theme parks management and Disney Cruiseline operations. March 31^st 2012, Disney Fantasy set sail. After ten years of not introducing a cruise ship, Disney is christening two in two years, increasing their number of maximum passengers by 150% (Garcia, 2012). These two magnificent floating cities did not just pop up from the under of the sea like the lost city of Atlantis. It takes more than pixie dust sprinkled over the Jolly Roger to create traveling theme parks. Disney's initial two vessel fleet have turned out to be sailing cash registers and they acted on all the analysis gained from massive databases holding the secret keys to Disney success. Top tier executives scan over generated reports and create future outlooks that no other entity on earth is privy to. The Magic and the Wonder were in some years out performing the Disneyland Resort in California. Overall the ships returns were exceeding those of any other theme park investments that the company has made recently. They were able to recognize a strength internally and an opportunity externally. The Disney brand marketed to an under-served segmentation that was willing to pay premiums above the standard industry fares because of a deep emotional connection the Disney brand has to families. They are a corporate leader when it comes to socio-responsibility and cultural awareness.  

FLOATING CASH REGISTERS

               Management allocated the necessary finances for construction of the Dream and the Fantasy to a tune surpassing $1.8 billion. While the global economy was going to hell in a hand basket, Disney executives planned and organized the expansion of their fleet. Goldman Sachs annalists’ predicted on the Dreams maiden voyage that year over year revenues would reach $1 billion once the Fantasy was fully operational (Garcia, 2011). Of course, Disney already has knowledge of the prepaid bookings, customer spending habits, eating habits etc. that’s the secret. Dressing this up with descriptions of van glorious water coasters, shows, excursions, dinning etc. is unnecessary. One fact sums up the quality experience a passenger is exposed to when sailing the friendly seas with Disney; prior to achieving the ultimate American Idol stardom, Jennifer Hudson was a cast member performing on the Wonder (Golden, 2011). Hello!

DISNEY THEME PARKS

               Where as Disney Cruise line operates on a differentiation strategy (D.S); Disney theme parks practice price differentiation combined with D.S. They are constantly balancing the scales of marketing and price points strategies in order to attract as many guests as possible from different consumer segments while maximizing profits. The theme parks most recent expansions are great examples of “How star managers realize grand design”. (Power Point 6-1)

               Just as the global financial crisis was dawning on October 17^th 2007, The Walt Disney Company (WDC) announced a billion dollar expansion of the lack luster performing Disney’s California Adventure (DCA). A complete renovation of an underachieving asset is a risky endeavor considering the slowing economy and the February lawsuit against the city of Anaheim that was thrown out by Judge Stephan J. Sunvold a month before the announcement (McKibben, 2007). Instead of folding up the mouse ears tent, CEO Iger implemented a strategic positioning initiative with reinvestment and modernization of current assets to achieve a sustainable competitive advantage by preserving what is distinctive about the company. The objective is to create a multi-day experience for all age groups, genders and cultures.

              

THE CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE

           
 Changing direction following the suit dismissal and considering altering the dynamics and appearance of DCA are all procedural protocols Disney undertakes when scanning the environment. New innovations and creative freedom is a staple signature of the media giant. The addition of Cars land, opening June 25, 2012 and the strategic partnerships with James Cameron’s Light storm Entertainment, Fox Filmed Entertainment and Lucas Films, invigorate the consumer with confidence that fresh innovative experiences like Avatar and the new Star Tours attractions is just the next big thing of endless big things to come (Block, 2012).

               DCA is not the only theme park undergoing major renovations. In the south east coast region of the United States, the flagship Walt Disney World Resort is currently expanding the Fantasyland area of the Magic Kingdom (MK) theme park. There was an exclusive soft opening in March. Expansion will continue and officially open to the public in stages thru 2014. A new value priced resort themed on the “Art of Animation” opens in sections beginning May31st, 2012. With expansion increasing guest capacity at the MK, new lodging will be needed to satisfy demand. The WDW resort also opened a fifteen story extension to the Contemporary Resort named the Bay Lake Tower (BLT) in 2009.  The BLT was the second resort opened that year, proceeded by the Animal Kingdom Lodge Villas. Both resort expansions were done for the Disney Vacation Club (DVC), a subsidiary that offers pseudo timeshares to Disney enthusiasts. In 2010 the house of mouse unveiled the plans for Disney’s Golden Oak; a residential resort community for those who want year round access to the magic. Disney subcontracted the construction of these luxury homes to various reputable designers and then stamped a “” on the finished product; and people are willing to pay premiums for the privilege to reside there. That is brand leverage and a competitive advantage that no other media company has the luxury of. One of the worlds’ most visited tourist destinations has been vigorously reinvesting, expanding and modernizing its’ assets during a global recession and it speaks volumes about the direction of the U.S economy.

         

  DISNEYLAND PARIS     

  

         April 1992 EuroDisney opened in Marne La-Vallee, France was not received with opened arms. The people of Europe did not want some carbon copy of American culture forced on them; they can travel to DCA or WDW for that. They wanted a unique European experience influenced by regional culture yet still authentic Disney. Reimaging the resort to appeal to a broader European population took years of scanning the socio-environment and adjusting accordingly; most notably the name change from EuroDisney to Disneyland Paris (DLP) to establish a connection between the theme parks and La Ville-Lumiere. Editing the dining menus’ resort wide were necessary changes as well because the French cuisine alternatives in nearby Paris were more desirable and the people of the regions palates were too refined to settle for processed American comfort food. The cultural adaptations made to improve the ambiance and scenery consisted of character favorites refashioned in traditional garbs of Europe’s’ past and present. This diligence and commitment was rewarded in 2011 when DLP surpassed the Eiffel Tower as the most visited tourist site of Europe. DLP has seen attendance balloon to 15.6 million guests and 724.3 million Euros’ in revenues. Visitors from the United Kingdom, Spain and France were willing to pay higher entrance fees, premiums on merchandise, room rates and food. All while central banks and international monetary fund’s scramble to rescue governments on the brink of bankruptcy. Perhaps, Philippe Gas, the CEO of EuroDisney should be given the reigns over the fiscal policies of the EU. He had to take defensive measures in order to turn around a non profitable division while conservatively applying growth strategies for renovation and expansion. The up and down flow of information within the DLP bureaucracy enabled top tier executives to receive valuable data from front line managers who had firsthand knowledge of the guests wants and needs. Highlighting the positive and making the necessary corrections when call for. This year DLP celebrates its’ 20^th anniversary and the cranes in the sky above the Magic Kingdom signal new innovations for a nouveau siècle. Risky investment in the a future riddled with  calls for austerity measures. The adapting cycle is perpetual; nowhere more visible than at Walt Disney Theme parks and people around the world to visit the happiest place on earth.

     

DISNEYLAND HONG KONG

   
  That includes the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong and the land of the Rising Sun. Disneyland Hong Kong (DLHK) is an interesting example of the intricacies’ related to management and the mandatory maneuvering that occurs when partnering with a government. Many concessions were made in order to gain a footprint in Hong Kong’s consumer market. Not realizing the potential Disney first had for DLHK added to the stalemates over funding and expansion have more than likely doomed the smallest of all Disney theme park resort (Cochran, 2009). In 2014 Disney will premier an enormous theme park in Shanghai; more than five times that of its’ Hong Kong sister. If the culture miscues that plagued DLHK surface in Shanghai, there will be heads mounted. A $4.4 billion risk that there will not be cheaper imitation attractions popping up around the city like what occurred in HK leeching revenues from their coffers. The Chinese government is fickle and made Disney agree in principle that their Magic Kingdom would be distinctively different than that of her counterparts in the west (Barboza, 2011). Collaboration with local employees, foreign governments and contrasting social norms are potential barriers that need to be hurdled with utmost delegacy, precision and cohesiveness. The Walt Disney Company hires managers and manifests leaders.

May 8^th, 2012, on an earnings call to address the newly released second quarter results and speak on the outlook of the media giant, CEO Robert Iger glowed. Informing the public of an 18% per share earnings increase over the 2011 comparably adjusted results is always welcomed news. He spoke of goals and objectives in regards to the merchandise based on the Avengers and reconfirmed projected release dates for Disney/Pixar/Marvel Studio films. The boys and girls in the toy division will have more than a few pow-wows discussing Marvel Heroes products and the first female hero to garner top billing in a Pixar film. (Iger, 2012)

               There were many positive aspects of this call to get excited about beyond toys, movies and theme parks. The Disney Secret is in its metrics matrix. If the consumer confidence index is the greatest indicator of economic health, than Disney earnings is the barometer by which it is calculated. Perhaps it is time to consider the current economic climate and employment opportunities will not reach levels prior to the depression. 19^th century education, training and job development has left 21^st century citizens ill prepared for the impact of technology on the global labor force. There are people thriving in this new century job market or so says the Q2 Disney performance.

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