Club Meeting Schedule
We'll announce new meeting dates and descriptions as they become available.
We'll announce new meeting dates and descriptions as they become available.
| Date | Description | Start Time | Room Setup | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| November 22nd |
Holiday dinner | Doors open at 5:30 pm |
Round Tables | Colony Rec Center |
| |
|
Meetings start at 6:00 pm and doors open at 5:30 pm. Please don't arrive before 5:30 pm, per request of the Rec Center Staff.
WEAR YOUR NAME BADGES! ("Badges? We don't need no stinkin' badges."--YES, YOU DO!)
<<<< >>>>
Mickey's Fanatics meeting minutes.
Mickey’s Fan’atics October Meeting
Thursday, October 24,2024
Dot started the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. Betsey lead the members in the Mickey Mouse Club song with our letter holders showing up loud and strong.
Then Barry, David and Angie, our election committee, were up to lead us in the election of Vice-Presidents and Treasurer. There were no names up for election except for the incumbents, who were re-elected. Our Vice Presidents are Dot Contos and Ruth Mead. Our Treasurer is LaVerne
Then Music in Motion, lead by Barbara Byers, a club member, gave us a preview of their upcoming show, Dancing Away thru the USA, which will beheld at the Savannah Center on Nov 1st and 2nd. Tickets online or at the box office.
John Sook was our guest speaker. He is a former Disneyland Executive.
Mr.Sook started with the Disney Co. in 1979, Walt Disney was already deceased.
Mr. Sook started out in the missile and bombs industry, but always wanted to work at Disney. He was hired as a ride programmer. He tested all the Dark Rides to make sure they were safer. He went on to say that he worked on Mr.Toads Wild ride and Snow White. He was sent to Florida to work on the programming of Space Ship Earth and Tower of Terror, which were fun rides to work on. In the late 80s he was given the Master Key for all of Disneyland and became Director of Safety and Facilities Manager. For many years Alice in Wonderland had the talking Doorknob which was analog, he was able to change it to digital. When someone needed a right to be upgrade in its system Mr. Sook was the man they called.
We then took a break and had the Halloween raffle. Everyone seemed very excited with the beautiful items.
Have a Magical Day,
Rosie Lemos,
Secretary
Thursday, October 24,2024
Dot started the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. Betsey lead the members in the Mickey Mouse Club song with our letter holders showing up loud and strong.
Then Barry, David and Angie, our election committee, were up to lead us in the election of Vice-Presidents and Treasurer. There were no names up for election except for the incumbents, who were re-elected. Our Vice Presidents are Dot Contos and Ruth Mead. Our Treasurer is LaVerne
Then Music in Motion, lead by Barbara Byers, a club member, gave us a preview of their upcoming show, Dancing Away thru the USA, which will beheld at the Savannah Center on Nov 1st and 2nd. Tickets online or at the box office.
John Sook was our guest speaker. He is a former Disneyland Executive.
Mr.Sook started with the Disney Co. in 1979, Walt Disney was already deceased.
Mr. Sook started out in the missile and bombs industry, but always wanted to work at Disney. He was hired as a ride programmer. He tested all the Dark Rides to make sure they were safer. He went on to say that he worked on Mr.Toads Wild ride and Snow White. He was sent to Florida to work on the programming of Space Ship Earth and Tower of Terror, which were fun rides to work on. In the late 80s he was given the Master Key for all of Disneyland and became Director of Safety and Facilities Manager. For many years Alice in Wonderland had the talking Doorknob which was analog, he was able to change it to digital. When someone needed a right to be upgrade in its system Mr. Sook was the man they called.
We then took a break and had the Halloween raffle. Everyone seemed very excited with the beautiful items.
Have a Magical Day,
Rosie Lemos,
Secretary
Mickey Fanatics August 2024 Meeting Minutes
The August meeting started with Debbie leading all the members in the Pledge of Allegiance. Betsey conducted them in the Mickey Mouse song with the letter card holders spelling out Mickey Mouse.
Our guest speaker was Julia delRosso a VIP WDW tour guide. She told us that she loved everything Disney since she was quite young after travelling to WDW and Disneyland as a child with her family. The Year of a Million Dreams started her desire to become a tour guide for the WDW Co. She became obsessed with the Disney history. Walt was the first tour guide, taking friends and showing them the novelties of Disneyland. At the beginning only single women could be VIP Tour Guides. They wore then and still wear a gold pin with a D on it. The guide has to embody the Disney spirit.
The minimum tour is 7hrs, maximum is 10hrs. When you are a VIP Tour Guide you become the clients event planner for those hours. They have access to Lightening Lanes, back stage entrances, quick restaurant reservations. They make the clients day seamless.
There are 250 tour guides. October to April is their busy season. She does tours in all 4 parks and rides many of the best rides. Julia, then answered member’s questions.
We also had some member guests that are members of Club 33. This is a private club in Disneyland and WDW that is quite expensive to become a member of. They get many perks and a private lounge that has drinks and snacks for the members.
We then held the raffle.
On their way out, many members said that they enjoyed Julia’s talk. That she was one of the best we have had.
Respectfully submitted,
Rosie Lemos
Secretary
The August meeting started with Debbie leading all the members in the Pledge of Allegiance. Betsey conducted them in the Mickey Mouse song with the letter card holders spelling out Mickey Mouse.
Our guest speaker was Julia delRosso a VIP WDW tour guide. She told us that she loved everything Disney since she was quite young after travelling to WDW and Disneyland as a child with her family. The Year of a Million Dreams started her desire to become a tour guide for the WDW Co. She became obsessed with the Disney history. Walt was the first tour guide, taking friends and showing them the novelties of Disneyland. At the beginning only single women could be VIP Tour Guides. They wore then and still wear a gold pin with a D on it. The guide has to embody the Disney spirit.
The minimum tour is 7hrs, maximum is 10hrs. When you are a VIP Tour Guide you become the clients event planner for those hours. They have access to Lightening Lanes, back stage entrances, quick restaurant reservations. They make the clients day seamless.
There are 250 tour guides. October to April is their busy season. She does tours in all 4 parks and rides many of the best rides. Julia, then answered member’s questions.
We also had some member guests that are members of Club 33. This is a private club in Disneyland and WDW that is quite expensive to become a member of. They get many perks and a private lounge that has drinks and snacks for the members.
We then held the raffle.
On their way out, many members said that they enjoyed Julia’s talk. That she was one of the best we have had.
Respectfully submitted,
Rosie Lemos
Secretary
Mickey Fanatics July 2024 Meeting
Our meeting was held at Colony Rec Center on Thursday July 25th.
We had our annual Christmas in July, which is the collection of school supplies for the Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary School.
Ruth Mead And Dot Contois planned the collection which was done in the side room at Colony Rec. They had many volunteers who help sort and fill the many boxes of supplies and bring them out to the teacher’s and principal<s cars. It looked like it was a very plentiful collection.
Debbie started the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and Betsy led the members in the Mickey Mouse song.
Kay Miller and her helpers wrapped some pretty gifts which were placed as centerpieces on each table. A game of Pass the Box was played and after the 5th pass the person holding the gift was the lucky winner.
There was no raffle this night. One ticket was given to each supply contributor and those corresponding ticket was pulled for a very nice Disney gift. It was a fun night.
Respectivelly submitted,
Rosie Lemos
Secretary
Our meeting was held at Colony Rec Center on Thursday July 25th.
We had our annual Christmas in July, which is the collection of school supplies for the Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary School.
Ruth Mead And Dot Contois planned the collection which was done in the side room at Colony Rec. They had many volunteers who help sort and fill the many boxes of supplies and bring them out to the teacher’s and principal<s cars. It looked like it was a very plentiful collection.
Debbie started the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and Betsy led the members in the Mickey Mouse song.
Kay Miller and her helpers wrapped some pretty gifts which were placed as centerpieces on each table. A game of Pass the Box was played and after the 5th pass the person holding the gift was the lucky winner.
There was no raffle this night. One ticket was given to each supply contributor and those corresponding ticket was pulled for a very nice Disney gift. It was a fun night.
Respectivelly submitted,
Rosie Lemos
Secretary
Mickey Fanatics Meeting
Thursday, June 27th,2024
Our June meeting was held at Colony Recreation Center. No reservations were needed.
Debbie started the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and Betsy led the members in the Mickey Mouse song.
We did not have a speaker, Mary spoke about the various luncheon we have at Disney Springs that have us meet knew members, in July 9th we had Homecoming. If anyone wants to make a reservation for any of the upcoming luncheons, they need to send Mary $10 place holder, which is returned to you when you attend.
Our next luncheon will be at the Polite Pig Aug 20th, Boathouse Sept 4th,Summer House Oct 17.
Bus Trips will be starting up in September. A notice on the trip will be sent to all members so they can make reservations with Mary Homko.
Debbie told us about the Flavors of Florida that was starting in July and running through Mid-August.
Then Debbie the members which were some of the restaurants they like, and a list was made.
We then held the raffle. Took a break.
David Miller and Dick Winter gave a presentation of their cruise on the repositioning of the Disney Ship to Australia.
Respectively submitted,
Rosie Lemos
Secretary
Thursday, June 27th,2024
Our June meeting was held at Colony Recreation Center. No reservations were needed.
Debbie started the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and Betsy led the members in the Mickey Mouse song.
We did not have a speaker, Mary spoke about the various luncheon we have at Disney Springs that have us meet knew members, in July 9th we had Homecoming. If anyone wants to make a reservation for any of the upcoming luncheons, they need to send Mary $10 place holder, which is returned to you when you attend.
Our next luncheon will be at the Polite Pig Aug 20th, Boathouse Sept 4th,Summer House Oct 17.
Bus Trips will be starting up in September. A notice on the trip will be sent to all members so they can make reservations with Mary Homko.
Debbie told us about the Flavors of Florida that was starting in July and running through Mid-August.
Then Debbie the members which were some of the restaurants they like, and a list was made.
We then held the raffle. Took a break.
David Miller and Dick Winter gave a presentation of their cruise on the repositioning of the Disney Ship to Australia.
Respectively submitted,
Rosie Lemos
Secretary
Mickey Fanatics Meeting
Thursday, May 23,2024
The May meeting was held at La Hacienda Rec Center. It was our BBQ Night.
Debbie started the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and Betsy led the members in the Mickey Mouse Club song. The event was catered by Oakwood.
The hospitality committee set the tables and served the members their meals. Carol Mulanax made cookies for our dessert with a very pretty picture featuring Mickey and the Disney train.
Our guest speaker was artist Alex Maher, who usually speaks on his years at Disney doing Product Art. This time however he was speaking on his love of trains and the obsession that Walt Disney had with the steam engines.
Walt Disney’s love for the steam engines started as a young boy when he was a news butch on the Missouri Pacific Railway. When Lionel Co. was going under, they partnered with Walt to develop a toy train. It was a very successful venture which made Lionel Co. solvent.
Alex showed the members a movie that spoke about many of the men that were friends with Walt and had full sized steam engines on their properties in California. Walt had tracks and had a steam engine that was called the LilyBelle, after his wife. He had the train built to perfect scale. Walt had a side business ,The Walt Disney OldTime RR.
Akex bought a replica of the LilyBelle from a woman in Tarpon Springs and someday he too will have a steam engine on his property, that will be fully functional like Walt Disney’s.
Debbie then held the raffle, which had a railroad theme.
Respectively submitted,
Rosie Lemos, secretary
Thursday, May 23,2024
The May meeting was held at La Hacienda Rec Center. It was our BBQ Night.
Debbie started the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and Betsy led the members in the Mickey Mouse Club song. The event was catered by Oakwood.
The hospitality committee set the tables and served the members their meals. Carol Mulanax made cookies for our dessert with a very pretty picture featuring Mickey and the Disney train.
Our guest speaker was artist Alex Maher, who usually speaks on his years at Disney doing Product Art. This time however he was speaking on his love of trains and the obsession that Walt Disney had with the steam engines.
Walt Disney’s love for the steam engines started as a young boy when he was a news butch on the Missouri Pacific Railway. When Lionel Co. was going under, they partnered with Walt to develop a toy train. It was a very successful venture which made Lionel Co. solvent.
Alex showed the members a movie that spoke about many of the men that were friends with Walt and had full sized steam engines on their properties in California. Walt had tracks and had a steam engine that was called the LilyBelle, after his wife. He had the train built to perfect scale. Walt had a side business ,The Walt Disney OldTime RR.
Akex bought a replica of the LilyBelle from a woman in Tarpon Springs and someday he too will have a steam engine on his property, that will be fully functional like Walt Disney’s.
Debbie then held the raffle, which had a railroad theme.
Respectively submitted,
Rosie Lemos, secretary
Mickey’s Fanatics April Meeting Minutes
Debbie started last night’s meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. Betsy then lead the members in the Mickey Mouse Club song.
Dot Contos and Ruth Mead conducted a fun game of bingo with Disney songs, characters and movies. It was a lot of fun.
It was quite warm in the room since there was no air conditioning, so Debbie called the raffle numbers and there were a lot of happy new and old members that won some very nice prizes.
Tickets were also sold for the May 23rd BBQ for our May meeting.
The meeting was cut short due to the hot temperature of the room.
Respectively submitted,
Rosie Lemos
Debbie started last night’s meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. Betsy then lead the members in the Mickey Mouse Club song.
Dot Contos and Ruth Mead conducted a fun game of bingo with Disney songs, characters and movies. It was a lot of fun.
It was quite warm in the room since there was no air conditioning, so Debbie called the raffle numbers and there were a lot of happy new and old members that won some very nice prizes.
Tickets were also sold for the May 23rd BBQ for our May meeting.
The meeting was cut short due to the hot temperature of the room.
Respectively submitted,
Rosie Lemos
MICKEY FANATICS MARCH MEETING MINUTES
MARCH 29,2024
The meeting began with Debbie leading the members in the pledge of allegiance and Mickey Mouse song. She then spoke about when she moved from Washington State to the Villages because of her love of WDW. She also is a volunteer with Villages Honor Flight.
She had the member vote on if we should donate to Villages Honor Flight and Stanton-Weirsdale School. The votes were unanimous. Our donations thus far have been $25,000.
She went on to tell the new members hoe we do Christmas in July for Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary School, and sponsor the chalk artist to go teach the 5th graders chalk art.
Every month many members meet at Disney Springs for lunch and sometimes we are allowed shopping per-opening at some of the specialty stores. Mary Homko takes care of the lunch reservations where there is a $10 place hold. Mary also runs the bus trips, which fill up quickly. Alex Maher will be our May speaker. He will speak on Walt Disney’s love of trains.
David Harshfield, a club member was this month’s speaker. He started with Walt’s young days when he lived in Kansas and saw how hard his dad worked but never was successful. Walt was born Dec.5,1901. Walt was always creative. Once his teacher told the class to draw what they saw, but Walt drew what he saw in his mind. Flowers and animals.
When Walt was 20yrs old he went to visit his brother in California. He want to create a character that was more popular than Felix the Cat. His creation was called Oswald the Rabbit, but he lost the rights to it because he was working for Iworks.
He then came up with Mortimer Mouse, but the name was too old fashion and one of his coworkers told him to call him Mickey. That person was Lily his soon to be wife. They were married for 47yrs.
David went on to tell us how well Roy and Walt Disney worked together. Walt was the creator and Roy the money man. When Walt needed money he would tell Roy to find it for him. David spoke about many of the famous movies that came out of Walt’s company. Walt was very obsessed with Mickey Mouse and all things Disney. In 1952 Walt Disney started to build an amusement park. He went to the TV stations for money for this project. ABC, which now is owned by the Disney Corporation, gave him millions for 1/3 of Disneyland. It opened in 1954.
WDW was opened in 1971, Walt past away of lung cancer in 1966. He never got to see WDW open.
We had our raffle and the meeting came to an end.
Respectively submitted,
Rosie Lemos
MARCH 29,2024
The meeting began with Debbie leading the members in the pledge of allegiance and Mickey Mouse song. She then spoke about when she moved from Washington State to the Villages because of her love of WDW. She also is a volunteer with Villages Honor Flight.
She had the member vote on if we should donate to Villages Honor Flight and Stanton-Weirsdale School. The votes were unanimous. Our donations thus far have been $25,000.
She went on to tell the new members hoe we do Christmas in July for Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary School, and sponsor the chalk artist to go teach the 5th graders chalk art.
Every month many members meet at Disney Springs for lunch and sometimes we are allowed shopping per-opening at some of the specialty stores. Mary Homko takes care of the lunch reservations where there is a $10 place hold. Mary also runs the bus trips, which fill up quickly. Alex Maher will be our May speaker. He will speak on Walt Disney’s love of trains.
David Harshfield, a club member was this month’s speaker. He started with Walt’s young days when he lived in Kansas and saw how hard his dad worked but never was successful. Walt was born Dec.5,1901. Walt was always creative. Once his teacher told the class to draw what they saw, but Walt drew what he saw in his mind. Flowers and animals.
When Walt was 20yrs old he went to visit his brother in California. He want to create a character that was more popular than Felix the Cat. His creation was called Oswald the Rabbit, but he lost the rights to it because he was working for Iworks.
He then came up with Mortimer Mouse, but the name was too old fashion and one of his coworkers told him to call him Mickey. That person was Lily his soon to be wife. They were married for 47yrs.
David went on to tell us how well Roy and Walt Disney worked together. Walt was the creator and Roy the money man. When Walt needed money he would tell Roy to find it for him. David spoke about many of the famous movies that came out of Walt’s company. Walt was very obsessed with Mickey Mouse and all things Disney. In 1952 Walt Disney started to build an amusement park. He went to the TV stations for money for this project. ABC, which now is owned by the Disney Corporation, gave him millions for 1/3 of Disneyland. It opened in 1954.
WDW was opened in 1971, Walt past away of lung cancer in 1966. He never got to see WDW open.
We had our raffle and the meeting came to an end.
Respectively submitted,
Rosie Lemos
Mickeys Fanatics February Meeting
February 22,2024
The meeting started with Debbie leading the members in the Pledge of Allegiance
Dean Phillips then lead the members in the Mickey Mouse Club song, featuring our letter holders.
Debbie then introduced our guest speaker: Joseph Yakovetic.
He started his career in as a portrait and caricature artist at Movieland Wax Museum in Califorinia. He then moved on to become a graphic designer and illustrator,artist for NBC Universal, working on The Dick Van Dyck Show,The Tonight show just to name a few.
Joseph then started to work for Walt Disney Co for 30 yrs. He worked on many projects. Designing Pochantas paperdolls, illustrating for Golden books, working with Radko to develop Mickey Christmas ornament. One of the projects was doing the concept art for the costumes for Little Mermaid on Ice. For 16yrs he has sculpted pumpkins for Disney World.
He did admit that he didn’t start out to be a full-time artist, but he was making quite a bit of money doing portraits at the age of 16, so his plans for becoming a doctor went out the window.
He was a very good speaker that held all of our members attentions. Q&A followed.
Raffle was held after the break.
Respectively submitted,
Rosie Lemos
Secretary
February 22,2024
The meeting started with Debbie leading the members in the Pledge of Allegiance
Dean Phillips then lead the members in the Mickey Mouse Club song, featuring our letter holders.
Debbie then introduced our guest speaker: Joseph Yakovetic.
He started his career in as a portrait and caricature artist at Movieland Wax Museum in Califorinia. He then moved on to become a graphic designer and illustrator,artist for NBC Universal, working on The Dick Van Dyck Show,The Tonight show just to name a few.
Joseph then started to work for Walt Disney Co for 30 yrs. He worked on many projects. Designing Pochantas paperdolls, illustrating for Golden books, working with Radko to develop Mickey Christmas ornament. One of the projects was doing the concept art for the costumes for Little Mermaid on Ice. For 16yrs he has sculpted pumpkins for Disney World.
He did admit that he didn’t start out to be a full-time artist, but he was making quite a bit of money doing portraits at the age of 16, so his plans for becoming a doctor went out the window.
He was a very good speaker that held all of our members attentions. Q&A followed.
Raffle was held after the break.
Respectively submitted,
Rosie Lemos
Secretary
Mickeys Fanatics Meeting January 25,2024
The first meeting of the year opened with Debbie leading all the new and returning members, in the Pledge of Allegiance and the Mickey Mouse song. The meeting was attended by 321 members. Debbie then introduced our speaker Chef Gary from Disney Springs.
Gary is originally from Cleveland, Ohio. He started working as a dishwasher in a local restaurant that his mom served at. He never thought he would have a career in this field. After a while, at the restaurant, he started to help in other areas. Working his way up. He said it started to feel like a family. One Valentine’s Day, he said they expected a large crowd, due to a car breakdown a group of the staff was not able to get to work. It left him an another coworker, the only ones there. They were able to keep the place running and it was than that he realized how much he enjoyed his job.
He then went t work at the Macaroni Grill, learning every station. Gary was told about the Disney Culinary Apprentice Program. He applied and after coming down to Florida for an interview he was accepted to the class of 20, for Sept.of 1998. During this time he worked at the 50 Primetime Café, Brown Derby, Sci-Fi Dinner Theatre and Mama Melrose. He also worked in Studio Cartering. After 3yrs graduation was to be held on Sept 13,2001. His family was going to attended, but 2 days prior the country experienced 9/11, which made travel out of state a nightmare. His family was able to come to celebrate his special day. A class that started at 20 dwindled down to 4 in the 3 years that past.
His first assignment was Tusker House, then back to 50s Primetime and Mama Melrose.
When Disney Springs opened he went to Deluxe Burger. He has remained at Disney Springs every since. He now worked on 8 menus including Hangar Bar and several other food establishments. He enjoys this because of the freedom to create new items depending on the seasons. He said he works with a great support team. He was awarded The Disney Legacy Award. He brought all the members of Mickeys Fanatics a treat, Chocolate Covered Bacon. It was so DELICIOUS!!!
We ended the night with our raffle, with many new members winning prizes.
The first meeting of the year opened with Debbie leading all the new and returning members, in the Pledge of Allegiance and the Mickey Mouse song. The meeting was attended by 321 members. Debbie then introduced our speaker Chef Gary from Disney Springs.
Gary is originally from Cleveland, Ohio. He started working as a dishwasher in a local restaurant that his mom served at. He never thought he would have a career in this field. After a while, at the restaurant, he started to help in other areas. Working his way up. He said it started to feel like a family. One Valentine’s Day, he said they expected a large crowd, due to a car breakdown a group of the staff was not able to get to work. It left him an another coworker, the only ones there. They were able to keep the place running and it was than that he realized how much he enjoyed his job.
He then went t work at the Macaroni Grill, learning every station. Gary was told about the Disney Culinary Apprentice Program. He applied and after coming down to Florida for an interview he was accepted to the class of 20, for Sept.of 1998. During this time he worked at the 50 Primetime Café, Brown Derby, Sci-Fi Dinner Theatre and Mama Melrose. He also worked in Studio Cartering. After 3yrs graduation was to be held on Sept 13,2001. His family was going to attended, but 2 days prior the country experienced 9/11, which made travel out of state a nightmare. His family was able to come to celebrate his special day. A class that started at 20 dwindled down to 4 in the 3 years that past.
His first assignment was Tusker House, then back to 50s Primetime and Mama Melrose.
When Disney Springs opened he went to Deluxe Burger. He has remained at Disney Springs every since. He now worked on 8 menus including Hangar Bar and several other food establishments. He enjoys this because of the freedom to create new items depending on the seasons. He said he works with a great support team. He was awarded The Disney Legacy Award. He brought all the members of Mickeys Fanatics a treat, Chocolate Covered Bacon. It was so DELICIOUS!!!
We ended the night with our raffle, with many new members winning prizes.
Mickey Fanatics Meeting
November 25th, 2023
Colony Rec Center
Holiday party, dinner was served.
November 25th, 2023
Colony Rec Center
Holiday party, dinner was served.
Mickey Fanatics Meeting
October 25, 2023
Colony Rec Center
We had a preshow performance from the cast of Mary Poppins. Bert and Mary performed a song and
dance and reminded everyone of the upcoming show in The Villages.
November 13 is the luncheon at The Polite Pig. We also have exclusive shopping at The World of Disney
from 9:00-10:00. You must have your current membership badge for this.
Our Holiday Party is November 25 at 6:00 at Colony Rec Center. Tickets are still available.
Dottie led the members in the Pledge and Dean got the song going. Our letter holders were fantastic
under his direction.
We had election of President and Secretary. Debbie Winters was unanimously chosen to continue as
President and Rosie Lemos was unanimously elected as Secretary. The election committee was Barry
Gruber, David Harshfield, and Barara O’Brien.
Our guest speaker was Greg McCollough, Disney artist. He has worked 45 years as a character artist. In
1994, he went into advertising and started his own company. He worked on McDonald’s promotions.
He shoed us a power point presentation of his work. He uses left over paint and scraper to create new
works of art on canvass. For 2 months he had his own pop up store at Disney Springs. That was very
successful and he would like to do it again. For the past 3 years, he and his wife have been traveling the
United States living in a RV. He is now ready to settle down in a permanent place. His wife started
painting and is doing very well. He brought 2 works of art to auction off. Proceeds go to Honor Flight.
His charcoal brought in $350.00 and his canvass also went for $350.00
After a brief break, the raffle prizes were given out.
Respectfully submitted,
Barbara Jury, Secretary
October 25, 2023
Colony Rec Center
We had a preshow performance from the cast of Mary Poppins. Bert and Mary performed a song and
dance and reminded everyone of the upcoming show in The Villages.
November 13 is the luncheon at The Polite Pig. We also have exclusive shopping at The World of Disney
from 9:00-10:00. You must have your current membership badge for this.
Our Holiday Party is November 25 at 6:00 at Colony Rec Center. Tickets are still available.
Dottie led the members in the Pledge and Dean got the song going. Our letter holders were fantastic
under his direction.
We had election of President and Secretary. Debbie Winters was unanimously chosen to continue as
President and Rosie Lemos was unanimously elected as Secretary. The election committee was Barry
Gruber, David Harshfield, and Barara O’Brien.
Our guest speaker was Greg McCollough, Disney artist. He has worked 45 years as a character artist. In
1994, he went into advertising and started his own company. He worked on McDonald’s promotions.
He shoed us a power point presentation of his work. He uses left over paint and scraper to create new
works of art on canvass. For 2 months he had his own pop up store at Disney Springs. That was very
successful and he would like to do it again. For the past 3 years, he and his wife have been traveling the
United States living in a RV. He is now ready to settle down in a permanent place. His wife started
painting and is doing very well. He brought 2 works of art to auction off. Proceeds go to Honor Flight.
His charcoal brought in $350.00 and his canvass also went for $350.00
After a brief break, the raffle prizes were given out.
Respectfully submitted,
Barbara Jury, Secretary
Mickey Fanatics Meeting
September 28, 2023
Colony Rec Center
The meeting was called to order by President Debbie. She led us in the Pledge. Betsy led us in the Mickey March.
Again, our letter holders were fantastic.
Major Mike, who was the director of the band at Magic Kingdom for many years, was our guest speaker. He is
originally from Ohio, went to school in Chicago, taught in Indiana, and was band director in Wisconsin. He had
many interesting stories about when he was at WDW. Once during a band performance at the castle, the dancing
snowman, who was a lady, danced so excitedly that she fell into the orchestra pit, but the band played on. Reedy
Creek rescuers came to get her, but the performance continued. He delt with pigeons and sea gulls leaving their
appreciation on the band members. An interesting fact, was that all of the directors of the Disney band had roots
in Wisconsin. Major Mike wore his band uniform and looked very dashing. It was obvious that he enjoyed his
profession.
The positions of President and Secretary are up for voting next month. The nominating committee of Barbara
O’Brien, David Harshfield, and Barry Gruber have the task of selecting members to run for these offices. Please let
one of them know if you are interested
Tickets for the holiday party are now being sold. It is November 25.
After a short break, we had drawings for raffle prizes.
Next month’s meeting is October 26 at Colony Rec Center
Respectfully submitted,
Barb Jury, Secretary
September 28, 2023
Colony Rec Center
The meeting was called to order by President Debbie. She led us in the Pledge. Betsy led us in the Mickey March.
Again, our letter holders were fantastic.
Major Mike, who was the director of the band at Magic Kingdom for many years, was our guest speaker. He is
originally from Ohio, went to school in Chicago, taught in Indiana, and was band director in Wisconsin. He had
many interesting stories about when he was at WDW. Once during a band performance at the castle, the dancing
snowman, who was a lady, danced so excitedly that she fell into the orchestra pit, but the band played on. Reedy
Creek rescuers came to get her, but the performance continued. He delt with pigeons and sea gulls leaving their
appreciation on the band members. An interesting fact, was that all of the directors of the Disney band had roots
in Wisconsin. Major Mike wore his band uniform and looked very dashing. It was obvious that he enjoyed his
profession.
The positions of President and Secretary are up for voting next month. The nominating committee of Barbara
O’Brien, David Harshfield, and Barry Gruber have the task of selecting members to run for these offices. Please let
one of them know if you are interested
Tickets for the holiday party are now being sold. It is November 25.
After a short break, we had drawings for raffle prizes.
Next month’s meeting is October 26 at Colony Rec Center
Respectfully submitted,
Barb Jury, Secretary
Mickey Fanatics Meeting
July 27, 2023
Colony Rec Center
The meeting was called to order by Debbie. Dean led us in the pledge and Mickey March. Again, our letter holders
were fantastic.
Today’s meeting was Christmas in July and School Supply drive. Dottie, Ruth, and their crew collected supplies and separated them according to type of supply. Teachers and staff from Stanton Weirsdale Elementary packed the supplies in their cars and transported them to the school. We were happy to see so many staff at the meeting.
Thanks were given from principal and a new teacher. The supplies were much appreciated.
Our Christmas in July celebration was giving many, many gifts to members via raffle tickets they got for bringing in supplies. After receiving their prizes, the members had their pictures taken with Santa and Mr. Clause. We
appreciated Santa and Mrs. Clause being at our meeting. They added such a festive time. We had Christmas
cookies and peppermint bark at each table.
Next month’s meeting will be at Seabreeze Rec Center since Colony will be closed.
Respectfully submitted,
Barb Jury, Secretary
July 27, 2023
Colony Rec Center
The meeting was called to order by Debbie. Dean led us in the pledge and Mickey March. Again, our letter holders
were fantastic.
Today’s meeting was Christmas in July and School Supply drive. Dottie, Ruth, and their crew collected supplies and separated them according to type of supply. Teachers and staff from Stanton Weirsdale Elementary packed the supplies in their cars and transported them to the school. We were happy to see so many staff at the meeting.
Thanks were given from principal and a new teacher. The supplies were much appreciated.
Our Christmas in July celebration was giving many, many gifts to members via raffle tickets they got for bringing in supplies. After receiving their prizes, the members had their pictures taken with Santa and Mr. Clause. We
appreciated Santa and Mrs. Clause being at our meeting. They added such a festive time. We had Christmas
cookies and peppermint bark at each table.
Next month’s meeting will be at Seabreeze Rec Center since Colony will be closed.
Respectfully submitted,
Barb Jury, Secretary
Mickey Fanatics Meeting
June 22, 2023
Colony Cottage Rec Center
1. Debbie Winters started the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and Dean led the club in the Mickey Mouse song.
2. Get Well cards were passed around for Tom Jury and Dick Winters for the members to sign.
3. Debbie introduced our speaker: Debbie Dane Brown, 1st WDW Ambassador, from Jacksonville,FL. She introduced her husband of 50yrs Rick Brown and some forever friends.
Debbie's Disney Adventure
Debbie was raised in Forest City,FL. and went to FTC for college( now UCF). In 1969 as a college freshman she was told by here father of a newspaper article regarding the
hiring by Walt Disney World for 14 young women to represent Walt Disney World Preview Center. They were called Disney Girls. She applied for a position and in Nov 1969 was
called to be a Disney Girl.
After training in a trailer, on site where the future WDW park would be, she and the other girls were ready to show the people that came during the building phase a film that showed
What resorts were being built first.They were the Contemporary and Polynesian Resorts.There was also a merchandize center where people could pickup Disney merchandize.
Debbie Brown worked for 1yr at the Preview Center when she heard about the Embassador Program. She applied for the program and in Oct of 1970 there was a ceremony where
she was selected to be the 1st WDW Embassador. She was then sent to California to train for several months with the Disneyland Embassador. Her cast member costume was
designed by famous Bob Mackie. She always had a chaperone when traveling with Mickey Mouse. She always was excited when traveling on Walt's private plane.
On her return to Orlando, FL. she was now representing WDW all up and down and across the East Coast. She was on Good Morning America and many news outlets. Her
goal was to spread the Disney name and future theme park. This was the largest construction site in the world and a very short timeline to go by. WDW was scheduled to open
Oct 1,1971 and so Walt Disney started his own BUena VIsta construction company, to make sure things were done on time.
Debbie had the privilege of meeting every governor east of the Mississippi and also President Jimmy Carter. When WDW opened Oct 1,1971, the first family Debbie escorted
through the gate were Mr.and Mrs. Windsor and their 2 sons. They were giving Lifetime passes to WDW. Three weeks later WDW had a big Gala Opening parade and Dedication
Weekend where Roy Disney honored his brother Walt with Mickey Mouse by his side. Debbie had the humbling experience of escorting Lillian Disney to the dedication.
Debbie did a lovely powerpoint presentation of many pictures of the construction and of her representing WDW to many important people at that time. She still is invited to many
anniversary celebrations at D23,Retro Magic and many other events.
4. Debbie Winter then pulled for the raffle prizes, which were quite lovely.
Respectfully submitted,
Barb Jury, Secretary
June 22, 2023
Colony Cottage Rec Center
1. Debbie Winters started the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and Dean led the club in the Mickey Mouse song.
2. Get Well cards were passed around for Tom Jury and Dick Winters for the members to sign.
3. Debbie introduced our speaker: Debbie Dane Brown, 1st WDW Ambassador, from Jacksonville,FL. She introduced her husband of 50yrs Rick Brown and some forever friends.
Debbie's Disney Adventure
Debbie was raised in Forest City,FL. and went to FTC for college( now UCF). In 1969 as a college freshman she was told by here father of a newspaper article regarding the
hiring by Walt Disney World for 14 young women to represent Walt Disney World Preview Center. They were called Disney Girls. She applied for a position and in Nov 1969 was
called to be a Disney Girl.
After training in a trailer, on site where the future WDW park would be, she and the other girls were ready to show the people that came during the building phase a film that showed
What resorts were being built first.They were the Contemporary and Polynesian Resorts.There was also a merchandize center where people could pickup Disney merchandize.
Debbie Brown worked for 1yr at the Preview Center when she heard about the Embassador Program. She applied for the program and in Oct of 1970 there was a ceremony where
she was selected to be the 1st WDW Embassador. She was then sent to California to train for several months with the Disneyland Embassador. Her cast member costume was
designed by famous Bob Mackie. She always had a chaperone when traveling with Mickey Mouse. She always was excited when traveling on Walt's private plane.
On her return to Orlando, FL. she was now representing WDW all up and down and across the East Coast. She was on Good Morning America and many news outlets. Her
goal was to spread the Disney name and future theme park. This was the largest construction site in the world and a very short timeline to go by. WDW was scheduled to open
Oct 1,1971 and so Walt Disney started his own BUena VIsta construction company, to make sure things were done on time.
Debbie had the privilege of meeting every governor east of the Mississippi and also President Jimmy Carter. When WDW opened Oct 1,1971, the first family Debbie escorted
through the gate were Mr.and Mrs. Windsor and their 2 sons. They were giving Lifetime passes to WDW. Three weeks later WDW had a big Gala Opening parade and Dedication
Weekend where Roy Disney honored his brother Walt with Mickey Mouse by his side. Debbie had the humbling experience of escorting Lillian Disney to the dedication.
Debbie did a lovely powerpoint presentation of many pictures of the construction and of her representing WDW to many important people at that time. She still is invited to many
anniversary celebrations at D23,Retro Magic and many other events.
4. Debbie Winter then pulled for the raffle prizes, which were quite lovely.
Respectfully submitted,
Barb Jury, Secretary
Mickey Fanatics Meeting
April 27, 2023
Colony Cottage Rec Center
Debbie led us in the Pledge. Betsy led us in the Mickey Mouse March. Members had letters to help us
spell out Mickey Mouse. They did a great job.
Our guest speaker was Josh Fernandez. He talked about the Disney Wish cruise ship and the activities
geared towards adults. The Mickey Fanatics sponsored cruise is coming up the end of November, and
we are almost full for the bus. The 2024 cruise will probably be a 7 night one sailing from Ft. Lauderdale
and celebrating Halloween. It will be in September.
We then had a short break.
We then had the raffle.
Our May meeting will be a luau with sandwiches, slaw, chips, and Dole treat for $15.00. You must have
a ticket for this meeting and all tickets have been sold.
Respectfully submitted,
Barb Jury, Secretary
April 27, 2023
Colony Cottage Rec Center
Debbie led us in the Pledge. Betsy led us in the Mickey Mouse March. Members had letters to help us
spell out Mickey Mouse. They did a great job.
Our guest speaker was Josh Fernandez. He talked about the Disney Wish cruise ship and the activities
geared towards adults. The Mickey Fanatics sponsored cruise is coming up the end of November, and
we are almost full for the bus. The 2024 cruise will probably be a 7 night one sailing from Ft. Lauderdale
and celebrating Halloween. It will be in September.
We then had a short break.
We then had the raffle.
Our May meeting will be a luau with sandwiches, slaw, chips, and Dole treat for $15.00. You must have
a ticket for this meeting and all tickets have been sold.
Respectfully submitted,
Barb Jury, Secretary
Mickey Fanatics Meeting
March 23, 2023
Colony Cottage Rec Center
Debbie led us in the Pledge and the Mickey March. Members had letters to help us spell out Mickey
Mouse.
Our guest speaker was Ducky Williams. He said he had wanted to Work for Disney since he was 10 Years
old. He worked as a bank teller and worked his way up at the bank. He allowed customers to display
their art in the bank, but reserved December when he displayed his drawings of Disney characters. A
local TV station did a special on his art and creativity. A copy of the tape was sent to Disneyland. He
persevered for several years and finally moved to Florida where he continued to try to convince Disney
artists that he could work there. After several attempts, and maybe some pixie dust, he was hired as a
Disney artist. He spent many years there and has just recently retired. He made several sketches for the
club which were auctioned off with money going to Villages Honor Flight. The sketches brought in
$1650.00
We then had a short break.
The watch with certificate was auctioned off and made $300.00 for the club.
We then had the raffle.
Our May meeting will be a luau with sandwiches, slaw, chips, and Dole treat for $15.00. Tickets will be
sold via mail to Mary Homko or at the next meeting.
We then had the raffle which contained many prints that Ducky had made.
Respectfully submitted,
Barb Jury, Secretary
March 23, 2023
Colony Cottage Rec Center
Debbie led us in the Pledge and the Mickey March. Members had letters to help us spell out Mickey
Mouse.
Our guest speaker was Ducky Williams. He said he had wanted to Work for Disney since he was 10 Years
old. He worked as a bank teller and worked his way up at the bank. He allowed customers to display
their art in the bank, but reserved December when he displayed his drawings of Disney characters. A
local TV station did a special on his art and creativity. A copy of the tape was sent to Disneyland. He
persevered for several years and finally moved to Florida where he continued to try to convince Disney
artists that he could work there. After several attempts, and maybe some pixie dust, he was hired as a
Disney artist. He spent many years there and has just recently retired. He made several sketches for the
club which were auctioned off with money going to Villages Honor Flight. The sketches brought in
$1650.00
We then had a short break.
The watch with certificate was auctioned off and made $300.00 for the club.
We then had the raffle.
Our May meeting will be a luau with sandwiches, slaw, chips, and Dole treat for $15.00. Tickets will be
sold via mail to Mary Homko or at the next meeting.
We then had the raffle which contained many prints that Ducky had made.
Respectfully submitted,
Barb Jury, Secretary
Mickey Fanatics Meeting
February 23, 2023
Colony Cottage Rec Center
Debbie led us in the Pledge and Betsy organized and led the Mickey Mouse March. We had excellent card holders to help us spell out MICKEY MOUSE and everyone seemed to spell it correctly.
Our guest entertainer was Krista Joy. She began at Disney World as a cast member working at Garden Grill. She has a Disney Blog and podcast. She is currently working at WVLG as a radio announcer. She entertained us with Disney songs from Aladdin, 101 Dalmatians, Lady and the Tramp, Mary Poppins, Song of the South, Toy Story, Little Mermaid, Cinderella, Lion King, and Zootopia
We then had a short break.
Joe Hambright, from Honor Flight, told us how Honor Fight got its start and how it is funded. He gave us an idea of what a typical day would be when the veterans are on the flight. They appreciate the donations that the club gives to help Honor Flight. As of today, we have donated over $36,000.00.
We auctioned off Disney pins In a case donated by a veteran. The bid of $750.00 will be donated to Honor Flight.
We then had the raffle.
Next month, our guest speaker will be Ducky Williams and all of the raffle prizes will connected to Ducky.
Respectfully submitted,
Barb Jury, Secretary
February 23, 2023
Colony Cottage Rec Center
Debbie led us in the Pledge and Betsy organized and led the Mickey Mouse March. We had excellent card holders to help us spell out MICKEY MOUSE and everyone seemed to spell it correctly.
Our guest entertainer was Krista Joy. She began at Disney World as a cast member working at Garden Grill. She has a Disney Blog and podcast. She is currently working at WVLG as a radio announcer. She entertained us with Disney songs from Aladdin, 101 Dalmatians, Lady and the Tramp, Mary Poppins, Song of the South, Toy Story, Little Mermaid, Cinderella, Lion King, and Zootopia
We then had a short break.
Joe Hambright, from Honor Flight, told us how Honor Fight got its start and how it is funded. He gave us an idea of what a typical day would be when the veterans are on the flight. They appreciate the donations that the club gives to help Honor Flight. As of today, we have donated over $36,000.00.
We auctioned off Disney pins In a case donated by a veteran. The bid of $750.00 will be donated to Honor Flight.
We then had the raffle.
Next month, our guest speaker will be Ducky Williams and all of the raffle prizes will connected to Ducky.
Respectfully submitted,
Barb Jury, Secretary
Mickey Fanatics Meeting
January 26, 2023
Colony Cottage Rec Center
Debbie led us in the Pledge and Betsy organized and led the Mickey Mouse March. We had excellent
card holders to help us spell out MICKEY MOUSE and everyone seemed to spell it correctly.
Our guest speaker was Dean Gaschler was our guest speaker. He was the person who chose the family
each day to be the Grand Marshall of the parade. He was hired at WDW in 1991. At that time, he
worked in the barber shop. He worked there for 7 years and was then chosen for the job of selecting
the guest families. He held that position for 14 years. He chose over 7,000 families for the parade
during his tenure. He grew up in Ellis, Kansas. He had several stories to tell about working in his
position, some joyful; some heart breaking!
We then had a short break.
Debbie welcomed the new members and introduced the Mickey Fanatics Board.
We have 2 ladies who volunteered to organize the Christmas parade.
Mary announced that there are no longer bus trips sponsored by the club. Our upcoming luncheons to
Disney Springs are February 21 to Gideons for early entrance at 9:00-10:00 and then lunch at Paradiso37
at 11:00. Everyone will order from the menu. Our March 16 luncheon will be at Raglan Road with a
limited menu (but still a lot to choose from). We will be at tables of 6.
It was voted on and unanimously approved that Honor Flight and Stanton Weirsdale School be our
charities for the upcoming year.
There is a Disney cruise scheduled for November 27-Dec. 1, 2023. Please call Shirley Karzen at Expedia
Cruise for reservations.
EPCOT not has the Festival of Arts with many artists that have been speakers at our club.
At Magic Kingdom, Splash Mountain has close and will be replaced with Tiana’s Adventure. The train is
now running again.
We then had the raffle.
Respectfully submitted,
Barb Jury, Secretary
January 26, 2023
Colony Cottage Rec Center
Debbie led us in the Pledge and Betsy organized and led the Mickey Mouse March. We had excellent
card holders to help us spell out MICKEY MOUSE and everyone seemed to spell it correctly.
Our guest speaker was Dean Gaschler was our guest speaker. He was the person who chose the family
each day to be the Grand Marshall of the parade. He was hired at WDW in 1991. At that time, he
worked in the barber shop. He worked there for 7 years and was then chosen for the job of selecting
the guest families. He held that position for 14 years. He chose over 7,000 families for the parade
during his tenure. He grew up in Ellis, Kansas. He had several stories to tell about working in his
position, some joyful; some heart breaking!
We then had a short break.
Debbie welcomed the new members and introduced the Mickey Fanatics Board.
We have 2 ladies who volunteered to organize the Christmas parade.
Mary announced that there are no longer bus trips sponsored by the club. Our upcoming luncheons to
Disney Springs are February 21 to Gideons for early entrance at 9:00-10:00 and then lunch at Paradiso37
at 11:00. Everyone will order from the menu. Our March 16 luncheon will be at Raglan Road with a
limited menu (but still a lot to choose from). We will be at tables of 6.
It was voted on and unanimously approved that Honor Flight and Stanton Weirsdale School be our
charities for the upcoming year.
There is a Disney cruise scheduled for November 27-Dec. 1, 2023. Please call Shirley Karzen at Expedia
Cruise for reservations.
EPCOT not has the Festival of Arts with many artists that have been speakers at our club.
At Magic Kingdom, Splash Mountain has close and will be replaced with Tiana’s Adventure. The train is
now running again.
We then had the raffle.
Respectfully submitted,
Barb Jury, Secretary
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