This week, Phase 3 begins this week in California, what that means, could Disneyland reopen on it’s 65th anniversary?, Shanghai Disneyland virtual queuing coming to Disneyland?, merchandise changes, we finish talking about the Fantasyland dark rides, and more!
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News:
Friday, June 12th is when the State of California is scheduled to enter phase 3 of their resilience roadmap. This is when theme parks can reopen in the state as well. With this phase, Disneyland is one step closer to reopening. When it does, there will likely be a new booking process similar to that of Walt Disney World in Florida. Reservations may be required and visits may be limited for those with annual passes, giving preference to guests with vacation packages. – https://www.micechat.com/261011-disneyland-update-rumors-reopenings-and-renewal/
Everything seems to be pointing to a mid-July, possibly even a July 17th, reopening. Cast Members are beginning to return to work in the parks and readying the parks for guests. Cast Members estimate that it will take at least 30 days to reopen once they choose a date. The kitchens and restaurants will need to be thoroughly cleaned before food can be delivered. Sanitation will need to happen, along with installation of social distancing measures. – https://www.micechat.com/260892-david-koenig-tantalizingly-close-disneyland-announcement/
Shanghai Disneyland is using a virtual queue system that could be coming to Disneyland when it reopens. The new tool, called the Disney Standby Pass allows guests to create a queuing schedule through the park app. The system is similar to the MaxPass system, with passes being made available throughout the day on an hourly basis. Quotas are limited and are on a first come, first serve basis. The passes will stop distribution approximately 2 hours before park closing. Guests and any members of their party must be in the park and added to the app to use this system. Guests will have a one hour window to return to the attraction once their pass comes up. – https://www.ocregister.com/2020/06/03/how-disneys-new-virtual-queue-system-works/
In a recent call from the local 362 union to members, the return of the Disney College Program was discussed. Union leader Eric Clinton told members on the call “if anyone thinks that College Program workers are coming back anytime soon, they are mistaken.” The possible upside is that regular, full-time and part-time cast members may get more hours and secured shifts. – https://dlnewstoday.com/2020/06/disney-college-program-is-not-likely-to-restart-soon-according-to-union/
When Walt Disney World reopens next month, there will be some merchandise changes. New collection product launches and limited-edition merchandise will not be available until further notice. Pin trading will continue, but only through pin boards with Cast Members, no package delivery will be offered, but shipping merchandise from the parks home will still be offered. Dressing rooms will be closed, and returns will still be offered. – https://wdwnt.com/2020/06/limited-edition-merchandise-releases-cancelled-for-foreseeable-future-disney-pin-trading-will-continue-at-walt-disney-world/
This week, the Walt Disney Company pledged $5 million to social justice nonprofits. Disney was one of the first big entertainment companies to show they support for fighting racism. $2 million will go to the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (or the NAACP), with the remaining $3 million going to other nonprofits. Disney is also matching Cast Member donations to LGBTQ+ and Black Lives Matter causes. – https://www.micechat.com/260977-disney-pledges-5-million-to-social-jus