Epcot VP Announces Removal of Mickey Mouse Arm and Wand Structure

[Figment!]

Mickey Arm, Wand Coming Down From Spaceship Sphere





Scott Powers| Staff Writer
Orlando Sentinel
July 5, 2007

The 257-foot-tall Mickey Mouse arm, glove and wand logo structure at Epcot is coming down.

Epcot Vice President Jim MacPhee announced this morning that the time has come to remove the structure, which has served both as a colorful, lighted Epcot sign since 2000, and as a lightning rod for criticism from Epcot purists who contended the image was out of character for Epcot's architecture.

The structure leans on Epcot's previous and future iconic figure, the Spaceship Earth Pavilion, a 180-foot geodesic sphere that can be seen for miles.

The arm and glove went up for Walt Disney World's 2000 millennium celebration.

Now, however, with but with Epcot's 25th anniversary this fall, and the temporary closing of Spaceship Earth ride, MacPhee said, "We think the timing of the removal is right."

Deconstruction of the 50-ton structure begins Monday, and will be completed shortly before the park's 25th anniversary, October 1. Also coming down are the 36-foot-high "Epcot" letters and colored stars splashing across the sphere.

Also Monday, the Spaceship Earth ride will close to complete a refurbishing sponsored by Siemans AG. The work should be done by November, MacPhee said

At 257 feet, the arm-glove-wand addition to the Epcot dome made the structure the tallest point in all of Walt Disney World.

Once it comes down, the tallest points according to Sentinel research will be two structures both estimated at 199 feet tall -- the Tower of Terror at MGM Studios and the new Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom.

The tallest point in the Magic Kingdom is Cinderella's Castle at 180 feet.

In terms of park centerpieces, Epcot's dome and Magic Kingdom's castle will both be the tallest, followed by Animal Kingdom's Tree of Life at 145 feet and then the sorcerer's hat at MGM standing at 100 feet tall.
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The following is the internal announcement regarding the removal project:

Mickey Mouse Gloved Hand and Wand to Be Removed from Spaceship Earth

As we did with Cinderella Castle for our 50th anniversary celebration, from time to time, we add special treatments to our icons to enhance or “dress them up” for our celebrations and then restore them back to their original state. As a result, beginning July 9, the Mickey Mouse gloved hand and wand treatment that was installed on Spaceship Earth at Epcot as part of the Millennium Celebration and then updated for the 100 years of Magic celebration will be removed. The timing was ideal to restore Spaceship Earth to its original, classic look, since the venue was already scheduled for enhancement work through November. We anticipate the restoration effort will be complete by mid-September.

Many people have asked if the structure will be donated to a local museum or park, but since it is going to take nearly three months to remove, it is doubtful that it will be maintained in one piece. In addition, the size of Mickey’s gloved hand, the wand and the “Epcot” logo weigh nearly 50 tons and each letter in the logo is 36 feet tall. Those letters are also covered with more than 250,000 reflective eye-catchers.

[ibrowse17]

Well, this will make lots of people happy:thumbsup:

[Mickey'sGirl]

My DS3 will not be happy about this!! This will upset him for sure.... oh well, change happens! I never had a problem with the wand....just the hat at MGM! :D

[disneynorth]

Does this mean there is going to be some kind of 25th anniversary celebration????

That will make me happy if they do, do something.

[TheRustyScupper]

1) THANK YOU!

2) You have made my day!
3) After the celebration, I wanted the hand down.
4) The ball IS the ball.
5) Spaceship Earth IS Spaceship Earth.
6) Who ever heard of a space ship with a hand attached?
7) Who ever heard of the Earth with a hand attached?
8) I don't need a hand to tell me it is Epcot.
9) And I am sure others don't, either.

[snifflesmcg]

I like that wand and I'm upset it's coming down.

[cfoshe]

For me and my family, we will see the ball as naked. :( We have not seen the ball without the wand or hand. It is like the castle, it will seem naked to us with the charaters missing. :) but, progress must move foward.:thedolls:

[January-2007]

Well, I don't know. I wish there was more warning. Another thing I would have taken more pictures of if I had known. I need another memory card or whatever they're called for my digital camera. DH actually likes the wand and "Epcot" words up there. Also, we saw it at all times of the day and night while staying at the BC and that was so cool. So I thought I would be happy if they took it down but now I am torn. Funny.

Another thing- I went to WDW with my family when they were first adding the stuff to Spaceship Earth for the 2000 celebration (The cranes were up, they were working on it while we were there), and then we were back the next year to see it up... And then I've seen it a lot now with it as "Epcot".... The only thing that's never going to change is that everything is going to change, right?

[SurferStitch]

Not happy at all....:nope:

:fit:


:sob:

[Jared]

1) THANK YOU!

2) You have made my day!
3) After the celebration, I wanted the hand down.
4) The ball IS the ball.
5) Spaceship Earth IS Spaceship Earth.
6) Who ever heard of a space ship with a hand attached?
7) Who ever heard of the Earth with a hand attached?
8) I don't need a hand to tell me it is Epcot.
9) And I am sure others don't, either.
You have just crafted a perfect post.

[CaptainDisney]

This makes my day! :D

[Horizon93]

This is great news! Spceship Earth will be itself again.

[BMan62]

I think the only time I have seen SSE without the wand was in the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey.

Good thing DW and I got a good picture from the WS side back in Feb. (The pics with our camera was much better than the ones on PhotoPass!!!)

[2Epcot]

THANK YOU!
THANK YOU!THANK YOU!
THANK YOU!

It will be so nice to have Epcot and Spaceship Earth, back to the original design, and they way I rememebered it when I walked through the gates in 1985.

[ghost999]

Well, this will make lots of people happy:thumbsup:
Not me i liked the wand and the letters and all. now i'm mad, sad, and confused.:(

[ibelieveindisneymagic]

I've never seen it without the hand and wand...so for me, it's going to look like something is missing...kinda plain! :(

[ImagiAsh]

I'm excited for this and sad at the same time. I didn't like it when they first put it up, but then I grew used to it and even (dare I say) began to like it. The "presence" of it will be missed.

[castlelady36]

I liked the wand too...boring old ball anyways....:mad: Now maybe the continuous thread about how dreadful it is will die....oh wait we still have to complain about the hat at MGM, right??? Which BTW I also like....

[Aurora]

I'm pretty much an architecture and Disney purist but I kind of liked the wand and letters/numbers. Especially how it sparkled -- but maybe that's because a girl can never have too many sparkles. :tink:

[Ricbr]

:(

Well...I dont care if it is there or gone to be honest. But I am getting bumbed out with all of the things that are going to be "worked" on while I am going.

We leave in two weeks and I hope I dont have to look at half of an arm standing there.

Do you think it will be cleaned up enough to be presentable while we are on our trip?

[cetacean01]

I like that wand and I'm upset it's coming down.




ME TOOOO!

Now we can all go back to referring to it as "That Ugly Golf Ball looking Thing!!!"

[TiggeRia]

I've never seen it without the hand and wand...so for me, it's going to look like something is missing...kinda plain!

I, too, have never seen it without the hand and wand...I think I'm going to miss it. Just like those folks who have memories of SE without all the decorations, there are those of us who will remember our first trip to WDW with SE containing the hand and wand. I know times must change, and I will grow used to the "new" look, however that hand, wand, and the words EPCOT will always have special place in my heart. Cheesy...I know. :mickey:

[Magic Fanatic]

Now that the arm and wand are going to be removed Disney can move forward with that Callaway Golf sponsorship and have a 550 foot long Great Big Bertha making contact. After all, Spaceship Earth is teed up perfectly!

[gauvin4]

I've never seen it without the hand and wand...so for me, it's going to look like something is missing...kinda plain! :(

Ditto!

[brownie]

I din't mind it, but I'm glad it's coming down. I like Spaceship Earth better without it.:thumbsup:

[GrumpyFan]

I never had a problem with the wand....just the hat at MGM! :D

:ditto: I'll be sad to see it go. But, at least we have some pictures of it for memories.

[Dsnygirl]

:( I guess I'm not a purist, b/c I liked the hand & the wand... I'll miss seeing it. Not that I disliked the "plain" sphere, but I liked the Mickey touch. Oh well - it certainly won't change how much I like the park - the sphere will just look empty (to me) for awhile.

[ariel03]

I for one am happy it is coming down. I have never been to Epcot without it being there and have always wanted it back the way the original imagineers had invisioned it. :mickey:

For all of those who are upset that the wand is coming down please remember that you are also the people who want the world to go back the way it used to be in the past and this is just a step towards that direction. :thumbsup:

[mainemajor]

Hip, Hip, Hooray:party::mickey::number1::thumbsup:

[Disneyatic]

How disruptive do you think the dismantling will be?
We are going in September and I read that there will be a crane in MK also because of the castle Christmas decorating.....

We are going to have some interesting photos with cranes!

[mickeysworld]

YIPPEE!!! It's about time!

[Jeff G]

:dance::clappy::woohoo::yay:

I prefer Spaceship Earth without the wand so this is good news. If I had a choice I would have preferred that they get rid of the monoliths at the entrance of EPCOT and kept the wand.

We ordered the most recent vacation planning video that arrived a week or so ago and in two seperate scenes they showed Spaceship Earth without the wand so this news didn't strike me as a surprise.

[DrumTastik]

Awesome, just awesome. EPCOT is getting a lot of love these days, and for good reason. Now what do you think will replace WOL......:beer:

[Roo Girl]

I am really bummed. The hand & wand never bothered me like it so bothered others. I liked the festive, sparkly greeting and it gave the ball that exciting and interesting preview for the greatness that is Epcot. It's not a big deal because Epcot is still my favorite of all the parks but I really liked the hand & wand. I hate to say it (and I know the purists totally don't agree) but it gave a bit of Mickey to Epcot- Epcot isn't very "Disney" if you know what I mean- I know it wasn't envisioned that way by Walt but it is a Disney park. Just the hint of Mickey Mouse's arm on the ball was enough to get me so happy to be there. I know it sounds silly...

[animalkingdomguy]

Frankly it about time. :number1: I have never understood the logic behind having a huge sign on the ball telling everyone that this is EPCOT. After traveling by car, bus or monorail and reading hearing or seeing that you are approaching or entering EPCOT do you really need a sign. SSE is sign enough. It is the icon of EPCOT. It would be like putting a similar sign structure on the rock face at Mount Rushmore. If you can figure out that you are at EPCOT without the wand, stars and huge name, you have got serious problems that require immediate and possibly prolonged medical assistance.:ill:

[countrycharmer]

:(Our entire family is very sad about this change.... our very first trip to Epcot was in 2000 when this was up and to us it is part of the "Childhood" Memories for my kids!!

Even my husband said that it is a shame they are taking it down. My girls are very confused, because everytime we go we take a family photo in front of it; now things will be different!! Not very happy about this, but not like I have a choice!!!:(

[Stickey]

The wand added character to the golf ball, especially at night.

After Siemens, the next sponsor will be Nike Golf, or Titleist. It can be Spaceship Earth, version fore.
:golf:

[LSUgirl07]

I'm with you, Ricbr- I leave in TWO days for WDW, with our first Epcot day being on Monday. If there if a crane next to Spaceship Earth, I will be :mad:. Not only can I not goooo on SE, I can't even take good pictures with it! Who wants a big stinkin construction site in their picture? I didn't mind the wand really. I thought it looked cool at night, but it doesn't bother me that it's coming down. What DOES bother me is the short notice of this announcement. Whatever, I'll still have fun, but I really don't want my friend's first time seeing Epcot ruined by some huge crane. :(

[TheAdventurer]

:number1::thumbsup::yay::clappy::high5::joy::cheer ::cheers:

This totally makes up for SSE being closed during my next trip!!

[Stu29573]

Having first seen just the "pure" ball, I always thought the sign looked like it was just tacked on. I don't really care one way or the other, but it's actually suprising to me that it took this long to take down what was obviously to me a temporary decoration.

P.S. I really hate golf and never thought it looked like a golf ball.....

[handa]

Hopefully, two more things will happen:

1. An opening (re-opening?) of paths around either side of SSE for direct access to Energy and The Seas.

2. Yes, I'd love to see the big hat at MGM go away (maybe move the Earful Tower to a more central location). I always thought it was redundant because there is a big sorcerer hat at ASMovies.

IMO only, I always thought that the simplicity of SE spoke volumes, so the big wand left behind after the celebration in 2000 was a big distraction. Some liked the change, but I honestly thought it was a short-term thing that satyed a bit too long.

I would feel the same way if Cinderella Castle were still dressed up to look like a big pink birthday cake since the late 90s. (I'll admit that I did like the new lighting and characters added for the 50th, though:hide:)

Chris

[JPL]

:yay::clappy::joy::rocker::drum::dance::cheers:

[gwfx1031]

I think the sorcerer's hat at MGM is an eye sore too. I miss looking down HB and seeing the theater.

[Jeff]

I will be sad to see it go.
I liked the Arm and Wand!

[Magic Smiles]

I've never seen Epcot without the hand and want. I will surely miss it!

[dixielandings]

Zipadeedoodah! About time. I didn't mind it for a time but Epcot is a statlier Park than the others and the big Mickey hand, while I love the Mouse, seemed really out of place. I'll be glad to see it like it was the first time I passed through the gates! Now if we could just get rid of those big granite picture thingies...:D

[DisneyJunkie]

Woo hoo! That idiotic, trashy-looking eyesore shall be gone! It took them long enough, but I guess they really DO love Spaceship Earth and care how things look. I've hated that stupid wand since day 1.....now my Sept 2008 is looking much brighter already!

[Clay Ransone]

It's about time! I hope the Leave a Legacy junk is next to go at Epcot. Now if we can get the folks over at MGM to take notice and remove the stupid hat I would be thrilled.

[Tinkerkel]

I will miss the hand, but I'll be happy to see SSE in it's original form. DD9 will be sad I think, she's never seen SSE w/o the glittery hand:sad: Now, something I wouldn't cry over never seeing again...the Leave a Legacy stones. I think it's really a nice idea but it totally takes away from the simplicity of that area.

[Dr. Disney]

Here's 2 better ideas:

1. Remove the Leave a Legacy 'Tombstones"

and

2. Remove that rediculous hat at Disney Studios

:thumbsup:

[PirateLover]

I'm kind of surprised at some of the condescending attitudes that continue despite the good news. I for one don't care whether the wand stays or goes but if I did hate it I would still respect that many like it. You are getting your wish, why do you have to continue to bash it when you can see how many are genuinely saddened by it's departure? I hate the placement of the Sorcerer's Hat at MGM but I don't sit here and constantly bash it or those who like it.

And for the record, I don't think it was trashy at all. It added nothing during the day but at night I thought it looked pretty cool. And do we really need to bring the Leave a Legacy stones into this again!! OK, so they aren't the most beautifully designed structures ever and they might be better served elsewhere, but I along with many others have a picture on there and I don't really appreciate the structures being called tombstones or junk.

And by the way.... do you really think they will leave it alone now?? I'm sure something else will go on there... maybe just a few sparkles that are only seen at night... but this is Disney we are talking about here.

[GAN]

Is there any truth to the rumor that they intend on mounting the "Leave a Legacy" tombstones to SSE after removing the wand?

[DisneyDudet]

From when I was 6 years old, Epcot was my favorite park. What 6 year old makes a HUGE park full of countries their fave over MK? This one did. I LOVED SSE.

It will be great to have some digital pics w/o the wand and hand. I didn't like it at all. I tolerated it. I still took countless pictures of it.

I can't wait to see SSE the way it was originally envisioned, the SSE I fell in love with when I was 6 years old...

[ChipDale]

:muscles: Ding dong, the eyesore is dead! :muscles:

I hated that ugly thing from the moment they put it up. Good riddance! :thumbsup:

[Doug The Disney Man`]

I am happy that it is coming down and as has been noted in this thread several times already the only constant at any Disney park is change. When asked when Disneyland would be finished, even Walt said never.

I thought that it looked out of place as well. I would wager that SOMETHING will replace it eventually, too. Whether we'll like that or not is yet to be seen, assuming they actually do put up something else.

And while I am happy that the arm is coming down, I hope that it is merely a sign of other more important potential forthcoming changes at Epcot. Like a new show in place of HISTA. An update on Energy (at least refilm the Jeopardy! part with a non-mustachioed Alex! Ha!). And something where WoL sits. I'm more excited to see the new SSE ride and post- show stuff. Of course, I leave in 2 days so I'll be lucky to see the old SSE ride this time, but I'm sure we'll make the trip again in the next year or two.

I can't wait to leave!!!!
"There's a party inside and it wants out!" -my DW.

[AvonleaCF]

:woohoo::dance::cheer::cheers::goofy::dale:

I for one am VERY happy to see the wand go! SSE doesn't need embelishment. Epcot is not supposed to be like the Magic Kingdom. It's a completely different park with a completely different theme. And as for some saying their kids will be upset, well, kids are resilient. I doubt they'll even mind once they're there.

Now the Legacy tombstones need to go and be replaced by the gardens that once occupied that space. Oh and get rid of the hat at MGM. Then we'll be all set (but then I'm also one who can't stand when they add decorations to the castle, even at Christmas). You can't please all.

[SgtTigger]

I will like to go next time and Not see the wand.....
Now they just need to light it like it was before the wand went up....
I also wish the would laser write on it like they use to.........


Hey it only took 8 years to get it down so the Hat at MGM has a while before that happens....




:cop: :tigger:

[pogo]

Change is change....... and this change we can't stop so why complain. :sadwave:

Look on the bright side..... now we can look at a bare naked shiny ball. :eyes::jaw: :woohoo: :yay:

[Lizzie]

I also have never seen SE without the wand.

[SteveL]

[QUOTE=BMan62;1345068]I think the only time I have seen SSE without the wand was in the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey.

Perhaps I'm missing something here, but
2001: A Space Odyssey was released somewhere around 1968 (I was still in high school), long before EPCOT/SSE was built.
Heck, that was even before the MK was built.

[dolphinmickey9170]

I am so :(. I love the decorations. The ball will surely be naked to me. I have seen both ways, but I truly love the wand. I hope they do something special for the 25th anniversary.

[mickey-mouse35]

I hope they do something special for the 25th anniversary

Me too!!!! :party:

[mickey-mouse35]

Amazing that this post has only been up a day and already has four pages of responses--lots of emotion here people! :D

[GoinGoofyPlanninThisTrip]

Great news. I'll start looking for it on ebay, but my wife will not be happy if it ends up in our backyard!

[DisneyorBust]

Based on the headline, I'm still a bit uncertain of their opinion of the wand?:confused::D
I like the wand, it was in place during my first trip to Epcot in 2001. I would like to see it remain but all of the theme parks need to change and grow. When I return, I'll go with an open mind and have another great WDW vacation!:mickey:

[mttafire]

1) THANK YOU!

2) You have made my day!
3) After the celebration, I wanted the hand down.
4) The ball IS the ball.
5) Spaceship Earth IS Spaceship Earth.
6) Who ever heard of a space ship with a hand attached?
7) Who ever heard of the Earth with a hand attached?
8) I don't need a hand to tell me it is Epcot.
9) And I am sure others don't, either.
Agreed, SSE IS SSE...Its kinda like the Statue of Liberty, It doesnt need any add- ons.

[pdrlkr]

I kinda liked it. :(

[Figment!]

**Internal Announcement Added to Original Post**

[Jasper]

Now that the arm and wand are going to be removed Disney can move forward with that Callaway Golf sponsorship and have a 550 foot long Great Big Bertha making contact. After all, Spaceship Earth is teed up perfectly!

Great comment!!! I spent twenty minutes laughing before I could calm down enough to reply!!!

[playdead88]

we have never seen the ball without the wand - our first trip to disney was in 2005 - of course we have been every year since but still the wand has always been there! im excited to see what it will be like without it but at the same time its what we have come to expect when we go to epcot. :fworks:

[markyv]

See ya wand and hand. Maybe now Epcot won't look like such a Casino at Night. I've got an idea. Move the Hand to Disney Quest. Maybe then the wand can use its magic to turn DQ into something people actually want to visit. Did I just say that? Ooopps!

[MauiMouse]

Wow, I don't know what to think. I like the wand, but I'd also like to see it back to it's original state. But I know that I'll be watching the webcam a little more often in the next coming days/weeks.

[WEDTOPIA]

It truly only looked good at night. It always seemed out of place in the daytime.

It's amazing to think how long it's been up , especially after seing all the comments from people who have never seen Epcot without it.
We visited 18 years without it , so I guess I'm a purist on this issue.

One thing that everyone will notice after it's gone - Spaceship Earth will appear much , much larger. I suppose , for me , that will be the biggest improvement.

R.I.P. 2000 to 2007

:mickey:

[Vinny]

To me, the hand/wand and EPCOT display over Spaceship Earth was not really that big of an issue. I have seen it both previous to the 2000 Millennium Celebration and with the changing displays since then. I know they were not really a favorite of the majority here on the boards but they never stopped me from enjoying Epcot or WDW as a whole on any of my trips.

[WEDTOPIA]

Since all the satellite threads on this subject are being directed here , I'd like to comment on the V.P.'s decision to take the wand down.

First , I don't think that this was such a " bold " decision ,since the hand and wand were never meant to be permanent anyways. It was just a matter of time.

Second. I certainly hope that this is the first step towards a renewed focus on Epcot . Cosmetic surgery up front is a start. Now , how about doing something with WoL , JII 3 , the Odyssey building, and adding some new countries with rides would be nice as well.......

:mickey:

[Horizon93]

Disney usually does a great job keeping construction (or destruction) from affecting the guest experience. I am disappointed that SE will not be open on my next trip, but I am looking forward to the new SE and I think losing the wand helps to signal a new beginning for the great geodesic sphere!

[Jasper]

I am no psychologist or anything, but I think this thread really points out how important our first exposure to something is in determining our opinions of it. What I am getting at is that most of the posters here who say they want the arm/wand to stay had their first visit to Epcot and Spaceship Earth after the arm/wand was in place. On the other hand, most of the posters who say they want it to go had their first visit before the arm/wand went up.

Now don’t get in a lather thinking that I am saying this is an across the board comment because it certainly is not. It is just a comment based on the posters to this thread up to this point. This was just something interesting that I noticed.

[LibertyTreeGal]

hip hip hoooray!!!!!!! I have never seen SSE without it, but it just doesn't fit in.

BURN IT UP!!!!

[Tinkermom]

:sad:

[dtootsie42]

I'm bummed that the wand is going!!!! I have seen Spaceship earth with and without the wand and I really liked the wand. I don't know it added a kind of pizazz!

[johnO]

I'm not sure that I feel strongly about this either way. I like it with and without.

:cool:

[Yetiexpeditioner09]

:woohoo: THANK YOU THANK YOU!
Finally the wand is comin down! And yeah, we do not need a sign telliing us that it is Epcot:mickey:

[Polynesian Dweller]

We've seen it both ways, with and without the wand. Removing the wand is not that earth shattering for us and keeping it wouldn't have bothered us either.

Epcot needs more than that cosmetic change. It needs to re-open the plaza leading from the monorail to SSE. Without that, and the original funky fountain, you won't experience SSE at its best. The wide open entrance gave an open, fresh feeling to the entrance.

The Leave a Legacy stones are in the way of the wide-open feeling and how the ball is really intended to be seen. Move them to a spot that respects the feelings of the those who bought legacy pictures and open up the entrance and you'll do more than removing the wand will.

Then, work on the attractions, many of which seriously need upgrading, and that will also accomplish more than removing the wand.

[Sean Riley Taylor's Mom]

I did not like the wand/hand at first, then I just got used to it. We never really gave it much thought after awhile. :unsure:

I will be happy to see SE however it looks! ;)

[hubbyofadisneyholic]

:high5: Best news out of WDW in a long time!!!

[disneygecko]

I have mixed feelings about this :unsure: . I have gotten used to the wand, but I would like to see the original look of Spaceship Earth again.

[ccp1]

To me, this is INCREDIBLE news!!!!
:joy: :coaster:

::does happy dance:: :dance:

Next on my list (not in any order)-

-Remove the triangular tapestries that adorn (clutter) the skies between SSE and the Fountain,

-While you're at it, get rid of those weird purple spinning column-thingies in the same area,

-Since Leave a Legacy has ceased, consolidate the existing LaL plates to a few stones, and remove the others,

and...

-Remove the hat at MGM

[#1disneyfan]

Not sure how I feel about this! I have seen it both ways and I guess I will have to wait to see it. I liked it in its original way and I also like the hand and wand. The hand and wand is the only way our DD has seen it. She is now 11, I think she will be disappointed. We will be in Epcot 1 week from today, so we will see!!

6 days and counting!!!!

[BklynChick]

Count me in as those who are sorry to see it go. It looked great in photos, esp on a sunny day.

[LauraF]

Yippee!!!:number1::D

Epcot is by far my *favorite* park and the hand/wand thing was just tacky. A buckyball is not a golf ball. (Maybe if they replace it with a giant golf club that's make people happy. hehe)

I second the vote for the removal of that hat. It ruins the flow of Hollywood and you can't see the Chinese theatre anymore.

[Catzle]

Well I just told my 5 & 8 year old they were taking these down and they were mad. Too funny! I will miss it! It will be fun to see how it looks now though.

[Grizz16]

Did Disney come to the decision themselves or did Siemens have any say about it.

[scoot241]

When the wand was a temporary addition for the Millenium Celebration (and said "2000" instead of "Epcot"), I thought it was a nice way to usher in the new millenium. Once they made it permanent, that's when I got aggravated about it. The dismantling of the wand is long overdue.

:mickey::thumbsup:

[marlyn]

I like it....and will miss it. Spaceship Earth will seem naked somehow.

[epcotfigment]

To me EPCOT Center is truly a world of emotion, from the first time I saw Spaceship Earth I found the hope and inspiration I searched every where for, I truly believe EPCOT Center especially Spaceship Earth saved my life. I have a tattoo of the Future World symbol and the old school writing of EPCOT.I have dreamed for so long for that ugly wand to come down so I can see my Spaceship Earth the way it was meant to be to represent our planet Earth. I just got back from EPCOT Center and on the monorail they called it EPCOT Center and invited all to the 25th Anniversary Celebration on October 1st!!!And also there are lots of Future World symbols popping up around EPCOT. I am so happy about the wand coming down.With Walts vision and Jim Macphee making it come true as close as he could i can just say Walt will be very proud.

[rsumrall]

Halelujah! It's about time we got rid of the hideous thing.

[Mickey91]

I, for one, am very sad to see the wand come down.:( I am extremely disappointed that not only will I not get to ride Spaceship Earth this trip, I will also not get to see the fun sign again!!!:sadwave::sob:

[Tekneek]

For me, this rates as a 'good start' toward restoring Future World to its original beauty. Unfortunately, I don't expect Disney to have the time, budget, or thoughtfulness to finish the job.

[darthmacho]

For those who are wondering where all the wand advocates have been, you can check past postings on the subject and see that I've always been a wand supporter. I fell it adds color and brightness to the structure.

[Momof2boys]

To me the wand always looked like it belonged on "The Strip" in Las Vegas . . . not in WDW. So I'm very happy to see it go. I think I won't tell the boys that it's coming down and see if they notice when we go in October.

I'm just hoping Spaceship Earth opens a bit early so we can see the improvements at the end of October.

And I actually LIKE the hat at MGM :) :mickey:

[GrmGrninGost]

I will miss the wand. :( Spaceship Earth will look so naked without it. It has grown to be a part of EPCOT for me. :sadwave:

[handa]

They're laser-writing on the globe again. I was pleased to see this when we visited in January.

I also understand that a large part of Siemens' agreement to sponsor SE had to do with maintaining the original spirit/integrity of the ride and that rehabs would be "enhancements" as opposed to a complete refabrication of the interior.

EPCOT was, and still is, my favorite park. I love a balance of the "Old EPCOT Center" and the "New EPCOT" and hope that the changes reflect this balance.

Chris

[joelkfla]

I also wish the would laser write on it like they use to
They do.

They've been displaying special animation following Illuminations during Christmas season and the F&G Festival for at least a couple of years now. And when Siemens took over sponsorship, they started writing "Siemens" with the rotating globe for a few minutes each night after Illuminations.

I heard that the Illuminations production cm's pushed to start this up again. They just had to demonstrate that they could control the laser well enough that it wouldn't bounce off the wand's spangles into guests eyes!:eek:

[EpcotFan182]

ahhh I'm so happy and excited!!:thumbsup:

[trackbarroness]

Boo no :( I kind of like the sphere with the hand and wand.
Only day off this week and it past already. Boo no

[Darbylew]

I did not mind the wand and hand. I have seen
it both ways and it was a little hard to get use
to when they put it up and now that it is coming
down it will be bare to me. But Spaceship earth
will be itself once again. It would have been ok
with me either way. :)
BEEN THERE, DONE THAT AND GOING BACK IN
NOVEMBER! :D:mickey:

[Victor Kelly]

1) THANK YOU!

2) You have made my day!
3) After the celebration, I wanted the hand down.
4) The ball IS the ball.
5) Spaceship Earth IS Spaceship Earth.
6) Who ever heard of a space ship with a hand attached?
7) Who ever heard of the Earth with a hand attached?
8) I don't need a hand to tell me it is Epcot.
9) And I am sure others don't, either.

:cheer::rocker:

SO true, great post.

1. Glad the Hand will be gone.
2. Obviously people that like the hand............
3. The monstrosity should have been down long ago.
4. Disney Execs finally listened or came to their senses or both.
5. Now I know there is a God and Walt is sitting next to God.

[NYdaily]

Wonderful news! Can't wait to see it again as it was originally designed. I am glad that they care to "plus" the park icons now and again. But I am even more glad that they know when to take them down.

[Crow]

well its been there awhile.
id rather have them move the tombstones to the side first. (LAL)
ill see the wand down but not the inside of SE in Sept.

[lockedoutlogic]

It was a nice gimmick....

but it should have ended as a gimmick in 2001. When it said "2000" it had a purpose....an advertisement for the 2000 activities at EPCOT.


When they changed it to say "EPCOT"...it just became stupid...as if someone was driving on 536 and said, "Ohhh...there's a sign on top of that gigantic ball that says "EPCOT"...so that's where it is..."

It's time has come...the hat at the studios can go as well....that was a 20 million dollar waste of a pin trading station....
...which is so much worse because MGM needs major work...not window dressing distractions and cheap tricks like that.

[Tekneek]

well its been there awhile.
id rather have them move the tombstones to the side first. (LAL)
ill see the wand down but not the inside of SE in Sept.

Indeed. As I was saying, this is just a good start. Restoring the front of Epcot to its original beauty would be much more inspiring, although it might not convince anyone to throw down some money like the Legacy stones presumably do. Convincing you to part with money is the primary mission of Disney these days, rather than pleasing the senses and minds (and counting the money on the backend).

[TheRustyScupper]

. . .
id rather have them move the tombstones . . .

From your lips to Walt's ears.

[Joannelet]

I wish it was the MGM hat that was gone! Do you know that it is covering up the BIGGEST hidden mickey in all the parks and it makes me soooo mad that I can't see it!!!
ugghhh!!! It use to be one of my favorite things to look at the MGM map just to see it. But now with the sorcerers hat there it can no longer be seen! I didn't really care for the Epcot one either so I just hope that they plan on taking the MGM hat down next!
I'm a huge hidden mickey fan! :)

[Ian]

...the hat at the studios can go as well....that was a 20 million dollar waste of a pin trading station....

I wish it was the MGM hat that was gone!Man, I couldn't agree more!

Death to the hat!!!

[LibertyTreeGal]

Oh I love the hat, I think it would look great -- in the middle of a swamp ;)

[lockedoutlogic]

I just hate what it seems to represent....

Kinda like "ok...we created an icon for the park...but it's small...and no one is awed by it....so since we still have the tower with the ears on it (which...of course...you really can't see inside the park)...let's plop a big hat infront of the theater and leave it there indefinitely....."

MGM needs some serious TLC....and now that Pixar is going to be attached to it...I hope Lasseter gets free reign to ride in on the white horse and make the park a true all day location...

Dear Disney Bean Counters: let the creative people take care of AK and MGM.

[Horizon93]

I agree. The hat must go! Of course, I don't believe it is accidental that you can't see the theater anymore. Now they can knock that down with the belief that no one will notice or miss TGMR. That would be very sad.

[SpecJoe Magic]

I agree with the quote in the article that says the timing is right. Spaceship Earth will reopen later this year with updates on the inside, and the changes on the outside will complement that. I look forward to seeing Spaceship Earth in its original state again. :thumbsup:

[jaredkari]

I always really liked the wand. Not that the ball isn't cool by itself but the hand and wand added a little something.

[Wells]

I prefer the pre-wand appearance of SSE myself; I think it helped give EPCOT a more individual identity. By the way, the latest vacation planning video, the year of a million dreams one that I know many of you have, has a segment on EPCOT. At the beginning of this segment, there is a “fly over” of the park starting at the entrance and going over SSE to a view of the world showcase. This footage must be at least eight years old since it does not include the wand or the “Leave a Legacy” monoliths. I think that this is even older than this as the original gardens at the entrance are shown and the plaza behind SSE and the entry to the world showcase is as it was originally. So anyone who wants to see EPCOT in its original splendor, just hit pause.

[WDWfanatic742]

Reports are that the crane was being set up last night near SSE :thumbsup:

The webcam (http://www.instacam.com/showcam.asp?id=LKBNV&size=L) from the swan and dolphin hotel clearly shows the crane next to the wand.

[Electro-Gurl]

ok i am well not happy basically

it wont look right without the hand and the logo.
i mean it is a disney park after all. and its gonan look quite bad wit jus a silly ball there.

unless there gonna put something up for the aniversary :)

[pshokie]

I am no psychologist or anything, but I think this thread really points out how important our first exposure to something is in determining our opinions of it. What I am getting at is that most of the posters here who say they want the arm/wand to stay had their first visit to Epcot and Spaceship Earth after the arm/wand was in place. On the other hand, most of the posters who say they want it to go had their first visit before the arm/wand went up.

Now don’t get in a lather thinking that I am saying this is an across the board comment because it certainly is not. It is just a comment based on the posters to this thread up to this point. This was just something interesting that I noticed.

I am so sorry the boards were down on Friday. I was out all weekend and could not post on this specific thread, but I have posted on others that were created....

For the record, I am a pro-wand person, and I am sad to see it go.

But I quoted the above because it struck a cord with me..... Reading the entire thread, a couple things struck me.

As quoted, fIrst visits impact perception. I briefly saw Epcot in the distance in 1988, but I never entered the park (Band trip to MK). My second trip to Epot (first real trip) was in 2001, so I guess that why I am a "wand person". Never truely seen Epcot without it.
The realization that the wand (in some shape or form) has been up for 8 years (2000-2007). It has been "sans wand" for 17 years(1982-1999). So basically, 1/3 of its lifetime has been with the wand. If you have only seen the Epcot in the last 1/3 of its lifetime....the wand is Epcot to you.
Lastly, all children under the age of 8 have never seen it in any other form.

I bolded the last part for a simple reason. While I can appreciate that those who have been coming to WDW for years and years and years have never liked the wand, there are others to consider as well. Children. And along that line, I would ask as politely as I can, that people acknowlegde this point of view (even if it is not there own), and tone down some of the close to venom-spitting-glee that the wand is coming down.

There are those that are truely sad about these events.

Thanks for letting me get that off my chest, and I am now off of my wand (and hat ;) ) soapbox.

:mickey:

[JPL]

The Crane has arrived right on Schedule :thumbsup:

Check out the Webcam
Epcot Webcam (http://www.aws.com/wxcomm/commercial/ccam.asp?sid=LKBNV&siz=lhttp://)

[DVCWDWMEMBER]

It will be nice to see Spaceship Earth back to the way it was before 2000. When the Arm and Wand were first put on I was not keen on it at all. It has sort of grown on me over the last few years but I will not cry about it.

[battle beast]

Does anyone have pictures of the progress so far?

[JPL]

Since it just started I am going to guess the progrees is minimal. Over the next week we should see more pictures and maybe even video floating around the internet:thumbsup:

[BrerSchultzy]

Lastly, all children under the age of 8 have never seen it in any other form.


And I think THAT is a very large part of why so many of the anti-wand people are throwing parties (myself included). Not only have these children grown up knowing only the wand, but they also were deprived of what Epcot used to be...Horizons, World of Motion, Universe of Energy (oil shale, the rock that burns), Original JII, Communicore, Tom Morrow, The Computer Song, Tomorrow's Child, It's Fun to Be Free, Making Memories, Listen to the Land, Kitchen Kabaret, Cranium Command, the Making of Me, the Odyssey....the list could go on and on. Back in the day, Epcot was MORE than an amusement park...it was truly a THEME park...not so much anymore. Now it's no better than a Busch Gardens on steroids.

And to a lot of us, the removal of the wand (and more importantly VP Rex) signifies a desire to go back to EPCOT 89, and away from "Disney's Epcot".

I understand that the wand holds significance for a lot of people....but the removal of the wand holds significance AND promise to those of us that remember EPCOT.

Now...let's all hug and grab a drink! :mickey:

[Gator]

What a sad day for all the kids who only know the wand.

Now we go back to the boring golf ball. Why not paint it white and have Titlest sponser it. OR cut it in half and call it Half Dome.

What I will experience is true heartbroken tears I'll see from my daughter when she see Mickey's wand now missing.

[BrerSchultzy]

What a sad day for all the kids who only know the wand.

Now we go back to the boring golf ball. Why not paint it white and have Titlest sponser it. OR cut it in half and call it Half Dome.

What I will experience is true heartbroken tears I'll see from my daughter when she see Mickey's wand now missing.I am sorry that your daughter will be heartbroken over the loss of the wand. But maybe she'll be excited. Maybe you'll love it. Almost everyone who saw Spaceship Earth originally is in awe of it. With the wand, it's just a billboard. Without the wand, it's a symbol. Without the wand, it's an impressive structure (after 25 years, it's still the worlds largest geodescic sphere).

And oh by the way....the wand was always intended to come down. In fact, it was supposed to come down five years ago, but they decided to keep it. If it had stayed, it would have become dangerous, because it was not built to last decades....it was built to last years.

So, what about that hug?

[big blue and hairy]

I am no psychologist or anything, but I think this thread really points out how important our first exposure to something is in determining our opinions of it. What I am getting at is that most of the posters here who say they want the arm/wand to stay had their first visit to Epcot and Spaceship Earth after the arm/wand was in place. On the other hand, most of the posters who say they want it to go had their first visit before the arm/wand went up.




Well, I guess I'm the wierd one (wouldn't be the first time). I saw SSE without the wand at least three of four times before it went up and I like the wand.

I will say though, if it was only meant to be temporary and only built to temporary specs, the only options would be remove it or replace it. Remove it is certainly the cheaper option. I understand the folks who hated the wand and I certainly won't hate it without the wand, but I still like it.

:sulley:

[Golf Grumpy]

i know why they did it, but I do not agree. I loved the arm and sign, they were very nice. but oh well, cooperate rules. :thedolls:

[jean in nh]

I love seeing this icon at Epcot-true, it was not part of the original but MICKEY IS WDW, Epcot included...I will miss seeing the giant hand and wand!!
There should have been a vote by the public before removing such a recognizable and fun "light in the sky!"
Truly bummed, upset, and NOT ok about this!! It almost makes me want to boycott WDW!
:mad::mad::mad:

[bwgens]

Lets get down to the basics of the discussion. The wand was only meant to be temporary, no different than the Christmas or Halloween decorations really, and it has been allowed to stay for several additional years. Spaceship Earth does not need any "decorations" to inspire awe in the millions of visitors to come. Now, I never really minded the wand being there, I actually liked it for its time. However, I always knew that it was a temporary addition and enjoyed it while it was there. The argument that "children" will be upset that it isn't there doesn't make any sense to me at all. I will grant they may miss the wand, but WDW is an ever-changing place, and I would hope that most adults explain that to their children, because that is one of the most magical parts of WDW.

[mainemajor]

Space Ship Earth
The last time I thought about Earth I thought of a ball shaped object, never did a wand come to mind. The origonal design is beautiful all by itself - just like our world :mickey:

[garymacd]

Darn! We're going back in September. Where am I going to have a nap now?

['Guest' of the MasterControlProgram]

I just realized something. So, my girlfriend and I first went to WDW together in January 2002. I think it was the 100 Years celebration. It definately was when we went back in September of that year. I made sure to bring a vcr in September to tape the WDW channel's "World Tour" and I think it was the same as it was in January. By the end of February 2003 (back again!) they were changing it and by November 2003 (back again squared!) they had the "top ten" format instead. Okay, so does anyone remember the World Tour? I imported it into iMovie and took a look at ... the Epcot segment opens with a point of view of riding in the front seat of the monorail around SSE w/o the wand! But by that point, the y2k celebration that ushered in the wand was over. But it was too much trouble it seems to update the stock footage! Guess they planned on taking down the wand "real soon" ... just didn't.

I am in the "never seen SSE w/o wand" camp. Perhaps it would not have been too bad if the temporary nature stayed true... but the wand lingered. I realized that SSE was not pure w/ the wand bumping up against it. I wished I could get a picture of SSE free and clear. It wasn't all bad having the wand there ... for a while. But of course it would have to go. And it didn't. And I still took pictures of SSE ... and lost my one really decent one at night all lit up when a hard drive died. Now I feel I am going to miss is. I won't be able to get the same shot when we go back this coming October. I will, however, finally get to see SSE the way I always wondered about from afar, in my mind trying to imagine being there in the 80s & 90s... the way "archive" pictures showed SSE. The wand was there for our last trip (when we got married) and now it'll be different. Kinda like missing Tarzan Rocks simply b/c its gone (btw, we loved it ... no ... we still love it as it lives in our memories and in Tokyo I hear).

So am I glad its gone or bemoan the removal? I'm torn. Wishing that it'd be there when we check in, then gone before we check out ... that's a wish dreams just ain't gonna bring true no matter what that wooden puppet lovin' insect says. We only went to MK on our first trip and as I child there was no Epcot so I knew our short trip that had us here there and (not quite) everywhere was incomplete ... but I didn't realize what I might be missing until the day we left Orlando and in the morning found this "boardwalk" place my girlfriend had heard about and discovered Int'l Gateway. I just had to see what was on the other side of those turnstyles. Yeah, its neat how the Contemporary is close to MK, but the setup of the Epcot resorts ... wow! And when we went back I fell in love with Epcot. That's Epcot with the wand. Horizons was already gone, so Mission:Space only added to the package. I will miss WoL. It's that change thing that's been mentioned. That last trip... we ate at Alfredo's on our honeymoon along with our family that made it there for the ceremony. I'll miss Alferdo's. The new place may be similar or even better ... but it'll be different.

Too bad about LaL. We had our pictures taken after the wedding. At least we'll have that. But I wanted the family coming with us for the big trip in October to get engravings too. I understand that it wasn't going to be forever, like the Walk Around the World. So something else will replace it. Likely not in time for our trip, but maybe another time. I never saw the entrance to Epcot any other way than w/ LaL. But I welcome the movement (not removal) to another place. Something not likely to be done with those WaW stones. Then we can find our LaL pictures at the new location.

Seems to me that the wand stayed around too long. It'd be easier to see it go if it went sooner. Like 2003 or early 2004 - at the latest. If it were gone by our January 2006 wedding at WDW, then I might not have too much tugging at my heart strings about it going away, even though I sorta wanted it gone. Our daughter will never have seen SSE any other way than the original look sans wand, so it's all moot for her.

[WDWfanatic742]

Pictures in the park just show that the construction walls are up and nothing much. This morning from the Swan and Dolphin Hotels cam the crane was not where it was yesterday, and by 6:30 it was back to it's original state and down out of the way. Whether or not anything happened, remains to be seen because you can't see much from those camera's.

[Stu29573]

I am sorry that your daughter will be heartbroken over the loss of the wand. But maybe she'll be excited. Maybe you'll love it. Almost everyone who saw Spaceship Earth originally is in awe of it. With the wand, it's just a billboard. Without the wand, it's a symbol. Without the wand, it's an impressive structure (after 25 years, it's still the worlds largest geodescic sphere).


SSE looks MUCH larger without the wand and hand. They really throw off the perspective...

[GothMickey]

I wish the wand would disappear over night but that won't be the case. Wand removal will probably takes several weeks though.

[Terra]

8) I don't need a hand to tell me it is Epcot.
9) And I am sure others don't, either.

I do and I love it!!!

:( I agree that it will look plain and boring and will take alot of getting used to.

[BrerSchultzy]

I just realized something. So, my girlfriend and I first went to WDW together in January 2002. I think it was the 100 Years celebration. It definately was when we went back in September of that year. I made sure to bring a vcr in September to tape the WDW channel's "World Tour" and I think it was the same as it was in January. By the end of February 2003 (back again!) they were changing it and by November 2003 (back again squared!) they had the "top ten" format instead. Okay, so does anyone remember the World Tour? I imported it into iMovie and took a look at ... the Epcot segment opens with a point of view of riding in the front seat of the monorail around SSE w/o the wand! But by that point, the y2k celebration that ushered in the wand was over. But it was too much trouble it seems to update the stock footage! Guess they planned on taking down the wand "real soon" ... just didn't.

I am in the "never seen SSE w/o wand" camp. Perhaps it would not have been too bad if the temporary nature stayed true... but the wand lingered. I realized that SSE was not pure w/ the wand bumping up against it. I wished I could get a picture of SSE free and clear. It wasn't all bad having the wand there ... for a while. But of course it would have to go. And it didn't. And I still took pictures of SSE ... and lost my one really decent one at night all lit up when a hard drive died. Now I feel I am going to miss is. I won't be able to get the same shot when we go back this coming October. I will, however, finally get to see SSE the way I always wondered about from afar, in my mind trying to imagine being there in the 80s & 90s... the way "archive" pictures showed SSE. The wand was there for our last trip (when we got married) and now it'll be different. Kinda like missing Tarzan Rocks simply b/c its gone (btw, we loved it ... no ... we still love it as it lives in our memories and in Tokyo I hear).

So am I glad its gone or bemoan the removal? I'm torn. Wishing that it'd be there when we check in, then gone before we check out ... that's a wish dreams just ain't gonna bring true no matter what that wooden puppet lovin' insect says. We only went to MK on our first trip and as I child there was no Epcot so I knew our short trip that had us here there and (not quite) everywhere was incomplete ... but I didn't realize what I might be missing until the day we left Orlando and in the morning found this "boardwalk" place my girlfriend had heard about and discovered Int'l Gateway. I just had to see what was on the other side of those turnstyles. Yeah, its neat how the Contemporary is close to MK, but the setup of the Epcot resorts ... wow! And when we went back I fell in love with Epcot. That's Epcot with the wand. Horizons was already gone, so Mission:Space only added to the package. I will miss WoL. It's that change thing that's been mentioned. That last trip... we ate at Alfredo's on our honeymoon along with our family that made it there for the ceremony. I'll miss Alferdo's. The new place may be similar or even better ... but it'll be different.

Too bad about LaL. We had our pictures taken after the wedding. At least we'll have that. But I wanted the family coming with us for the big trip in October to get engravings too. I understand that it wasn't going to be forever, like the Walk Around the World. So something else will replace it. Likely not in time for our trip, but maybe another time. I never saw the entrance to Epcot any other way than w/ LaL. But I welcome the movement (not removal) to another place. Something not likely to be done with those WaW stones. Then we can find our LaL pictures at the new location.

Seems to me that the wand stayed around too long. It'd be easier to see it go if it went sooner. Like 2003 or early 2004 - at the latest. If it were gone by our January 2006 wedding at WDW, then I might not have too much tugging at my heart strings about it going away, even though I sorta wanted it gone. Our daughter will never have seen SSE any other way than the original look sans wand, so it's all moot for her.

Great post. Intelligent, logical, rational, emotional....well said.

[Spaceship Tigger]

For those who are wondering where all the wand advocates have been, you can check past postings on the subject and see that I've always been a wand supporter. I fell it adds color and brightness to the structure.

You can also check past polls about people's opinions of the wand and find that the winning side was almost always those that prefer the wand. Those that are gleefully celebrating its demise seem to think that everyone else hated it as well, which has never been true.

[Monorail_Red]

I've never seen SE without the wand in person as my first trip into Epcot was in 2003.

From the pictures I've seen of SE without the wand, I thought that it looked OK without it, but I also thought that it gave SE a nice touch at night.

But oh well.....

[Bubbie Girl]

I am one of the sad ones.:pout: I liked it!

[lockedoutlogic]

You can also check past polls about people's opinions of the wand and find that the winning side was almost always those that prefer the wand. Those that are gleefully celebrating its demise seem to think that everyone else hated it as well, which has never been true.


True...many probably liked it.

But EPCOT is more than an amusement park...it's in many ways a vision...

and the wand did not go with that vision. There was a certain elegance to the SE before the wand was put up...the cartoon hand slapped on the side spoiled that in many ways.

Disney is for everyone..as per their stated goal....it does not have to always cater to those between 4 and 12 years of age.
Not everything needs a cartoon character slapped on it.

If your kids scream and throw a fit because there's no hand....its quite possible that there expectations just might be a tad bit too high...

[pshokie]

Now...let's all hug and grab a drink! :mickey:

So, what about that hug?

What's with you man?!?!?!?!!?

Ohhhh okay. From one grown pro-wand man to another grown pro-SSE man....:hug:

Just watch where you put those hands! ;)

[bigfatqueenofeverything]

They have Spaceship earth still closed when I get there September 6th. But the real bummer is Haunted Mansion. Oh well.

[robhink]

They have Spaceship earth still closed when I get there September 6th. But the real bummer is Haunted Mansion. Oh well.

They are redoing the ride inside as part of the new agreement with Siemens to sponsor the attraction. I've read somewhere else that Siemens asked to have the wand removed as they felt it didn't fit the theme of the updated ride inside. The ride updates should be completed by the middle of November.

[battlefield2freak]

well it will be different now and ill at least get to see what its like without the wand. the wand has always been there when i went so its hard to let it go. i went the first time in 1999 but i hardly remember it but i always like the epcot on top of the ball bc it was the first thing i saw from the monorail and the car

[Tekneek]

Epcot was almost like a work of art at one time. The wand, perhaps unfortunately, represents Disney's turn to crass commercialism in recent times. Going along with the 'gift shop at the end of every attraction' mindset that has dominated the company. Maybe people think it is beautiful and really adds something to the park and the association I give it with an Epcot that has lost its way is a personal thing I just need to get over. Either way, the removal of the wand is relatively meaningless (in my opinion) unless it is followed by more actions geared to returning Epcot to its past beauty and mission.

[lockedoutlogic]

Epcot was almost like a work of art at one time. The wand, perhaps unfortunately, represents Disney's turn to crass commercialism in recent times. Going along with the 'gift shop at the end of every attraction' mindset that has dominated the company. Maybe people think it is beautiful and really adds something to the park and the association I give it with an Epcot that has lost its way is a personal thing I just need to get over. Either way, the removal of the wand is relatively meaningless (in my opinion) unless it is followed by more actions geared to returning Epcot to its past beauty and mission.

Amen to that.....

And my wife just reminded me that it's in the background of some of our wedding photos...

Now I'm really hating the thing again...I'm looking into having it digitally eliminated from the prints...however...:party:

[WDWfanatic742]

They didn't even light up the wand tonight. Looks very weird when you can see something there and its alot darker at night.

[Rica]

I am pretty disappointed about this. I really liked the wand and hand. I think it mad it more magical and Disney like. I agree with some of the others it looks too plain with out the wand and hand. :(

[bwgens]

Seems as if a good majority of those with the "will be too plain without the wand" sentiment, are also those who have never seen SSE without the wand. For the last time it was a temporary decoration that was allowed to stay beyond its intended duration, thats it, nothing else. Now they are doing what they intended to do all along by removing it. I also agree with a previous statement that the perspective and relative size of SSE was thrown off quite a bit with the wand being there. It will be nice to see it back to normal again.

[Fantasmic]

Yesssssssssssssssssssssss :number1:

Whoop Whoop! Can't wait.

:party:

[big blue and hairy]

Yesssssssssssssssssssssss :number1:

Whoop Whoop! Can't wait.

:party:

Don't get too excited, they're replacing it with a Goofy hand with Epcot falling off...:funny:

:sulley:

[WDWfanatic742]

The O and T are completely off and taken somewhere. It's amazing how fast they are working on this.

[SurferStitch]

Seems as if a good majority of those with the "will be too plain without the wand" sentiment, are also those who have never seen SSE without the wand.

Not true. I've seen it several times pre-wand, and I still prefer the wand, even if it was only temporary.

I really wanted to see it one last time in December....:pout:

[GothMickey]

The O and T are completely off and taken somewhere. It's amazing how fast they are working on this.
I heard the whole word is off. Either way, I am glad the wand is history. Ready to start the eBay bidding?

[WDWfanatic742]

Nope, so far it's just the last two letters, pictures show it. Maybe it could even be tomorrow that you see all 5 letter's off if they stay consistent.

[knhund]

I actully enjoyed the hand, wand, and script. I hate that is all going away. I think they could have left at least the script!

My husband and I vacation at WDW each year. I have photos of various stages of the ball and its add-ons. When looking through them, I think it looks better with the add-ons in place as opposed to a naked ball.

[battle beast]

I can't say as though I liked it, but I didn't hate it. I mean, I never noticed it untill I looked at a photo I had taken.

Still, I am glad to see it come down. If that makes sense.:confused:

[Red Randal]

I am amazed by how many people are not celebrating the removal of the wand. I always thought it was the most hated thing at Walt Disney World. Must be one of those things that those who hate can not shut up about and those who like stay silent. I, for one, am thrilled.

I had a lot of fun "deconstructing" the Epcot lettering while I was creating my avatar. Now it's a collector's item. :D

[goofy for pluto]

I am happy to see it go. :thumbsup:
I liked it when it said 2000. That was a nice addition for the celebration. But after that I thought that it looked out of place. Why take away from the perfect design of the geosphere?
My DS however only remembers SE as having the wand and will miss it. Although as a future engineer, I think once he sees it though without the extra decoration he may change his mind.

['Guest' of the MasterControlProgram]

So... what is going to replace it? How about Stitch spray painting "it's not a golf ball!" on it. No, wait, have Stitch bathroom tissue-ing it like the castle. No, wait, have a big Stitch in a golf outfit and a 5-iron and "Callaway" written on SSE... now it is a golf ball! :D Instead of "2000" or "Epcot" they can have "Fore" :mickey:

[chrisb26]

Nope, so far it's just the last two letters, pictures show it. Maybe it could even be tomorrow that you see all 5 letter's off if they stay consistent.

Where did you see pictures of this? I would like to see a more close up of it then the web cam which is difficult to see anything.

[WDWfanatic742]

Sent you the picture link Chris. I think I forgot to mention. The two letters that were taken down yesterday were on the side facing the park. So the view from the parking lot still has all 5 letters on that side.

EDIT - The changes that happened overnight last night are that the "c" "o" and "t" were removed on the front sign. So it says only E and P. The back of the sign got it's "p" and "c" removed last night. So is says only E.

[mdearmas]

here is some pics of the wand coming down. This is what they have done so far.
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/2007/07/no-more-ot-at-e.html :goofy:

[Red Randal]

Excellent!

[GothMickey]

Actually, the E is all that is left on the park side and EP on the entrance side. I saw them on a different site this morning. By this weekend the EPCOT should be all gone.

[MMouse6937]

WOW, that looks crazy. I wonder how long it will take to complete, they seem to be moving quickly. :mickey:

[Figgyluv03]

Oh happy day!!!! I can't wait to see it when it's all down!!!

[Ms.Disney]

I am glad to see the wand coming down. I would really like to see Epcot become what is was original intended for in 1982. I feel like there is going to be change for the better, like.... Epcot Center :mickey: one can dream :cloud9:

[Lizzie]

Thats crazy. It looks like they are working on it during the day. I thought they were just doing it at night.

[snifflesmcg]

Thanks for the pics! They are great! It does bring a tear to my eye.....I'm gonna miss that wand!

[chrisb26]

Thanks for the picture it does look pretty funny only seeing EPC on the sign. Can't wait to see it with even less letters :D

[tyandskyesmom]

Thanks for the pics! They are great! It does bring a tear to my eye.....I'm gonna miss that wand!

me too!

[disneycouple2004]

I read somewhere they were removing all of the Leave a Legacy stones in front of Epcot..(thanks goodness !)...kinda makes sense now..with the remodel of SSE ..removing the wand...they will probably need those stones moved so they can get the cranes in to do all the work...changes all the time ...we go with the flow...:confused:

[magicofdisney]

My kids and Mom have only known Epcot with the wand. This isn't a happy day for all. :( But we still LOVE Disney! :mickey:

[nickcapp]

How fast will those letters be on ebay?!?!

[automation85]

I just feel that for many who remember the park before the change, they have one opinion. For those who only know the new version, they think of it in another light. Others float in between.

To each his/her own. But sometimes a clarification of opinion never hurt. I'm still excited about a clean SSE, but that's just my :twocents:

[countrycharmer]

:mad:My children, my husband and I really will miss this structure; ever since we went in way back in 2000 and it was first up, my children get all excited when they would see it...kind of a happy memory for them!

It is OUR opinion that it added a touch of "Disney flair" and we PERSONALLY will miss it!

I hate to see things bashed, etc., just because someone's OPINION varies from that of others; just like I tell my kids; talk in a manner that you wish to be talked to; remember that though you may not want to OFFEND others, the word and phrase choices you make can sometimes be taken the wrong way.....maybe so with all the varied posts on this topic and the MGM hat?!?!?!?!?!

[mcjaco]

For people that have never seen SSE without the wand, I see your side. For those of us that remember EPCOT (not Epcot), we like it without the wand. SSE, IMO, does not need "Disney Flair" as it was already one big piece of flair.

[wdwfan]

The C is also gone now.

[DisneyDudet]

I have not heard about them moving the LaL tiles. This doesn't make sense since they moved the information station. If they were going to remove them, why not get rid of the information station?

You'd also be surprised what Disney can do with a crane.. can you imagine a crane near the castle? Happens more often than you think!

I don't think that rumor is true, but anything could happen I guess.

[WDWfanatic742]

Last time I saw, there really wasn't anything announced besides alot of made up rumors from Disney fans who hate them. Don't know where they would move them to because they have to put them somewhere since people bought them to put their faces on them.

[LoriMistress]

Very nice!:thumbsup:

[CandleontheWater]

That is so cool! I'm definately going to take pics this weekend, its like watching a historic moment. :blush:

[Magic Smiles]

Thanks for the pics! They are great! It does bring a tear to my eye.....I'm gonna miss that wand!

Me double too. I loved the wand and Epcot sign!

[tinksmom02]

I remember SSE w/o added appendages, and with it, and I like it both ways. What I'm curious to see is if DD and DH will notice the changes in September--they've only known the modified SSE.

[jpH/keD]

I have to say I kinda liked the wand and hand. I know all you EPCOT Purists are doing a dance about now but it brings a tear....so to speak! But hey I'm all for onward and upwards!
:thumbsup: I still want a new set of 25th anniversary glasses from McDonalds!:cheers:

[Always Goofy]

Last time I saw, there really wasn't anything announced besides alot of made up rumors from Disney fans who hate them. Don't know where they would move them to because they have to put them somewhere since people bought them to put their faces on them.

hehe...yeah, me and my son did this and my parents did too...I really do like the LAL stones, and every time we go my son runs up to ours to look at it. Plus he was 4 or 5 when we did it and now he is 12...so that is a happy memory for us. I really hope they don't take those away. On the flip side, I liked the wand, hated the "2000", but loved it when they changed it to "Epcot". But I will be glad to see it go.

[Tekneek]

I wouldn't go so far as to say they should get rid of the Leave A Legacy stuff completely, but I don't think they are in the right spot. I don't know where else it would work, but I don't like the look/feel of where they currently are.

[WDWfanatic742]

From what I have seen online, there is a contract or something that says that they will be there until at least 2025 with the people who bought them?

[battlefield2freak]

so the most they have done is removing the letters on the backside that faces the park and the letters EPC on the front? i get confused easily as u can tell.

[mcjaco]

From what I have seen online, there is a contract or something that says that they will be there until at least 2025 with the people who bought them?

Correct, but they can move them at anytime. Which means they may not alwasy be at the front of the park.

so the most they have done is removing the letters on the backside that faces the park and the letters EPC on the front? i get confused easily as u can tell.

Just the EPC (park side) on the back from what I've read.

[Here we go again...]

The wand added character to the golf ball, especially at night.

After Siemens, the next sponsor will be Nike Golf, or Titleist. It can be Spaceship Earth, version fore.
:golf:
Since we are one of the families that took our first trip in 2001 is it all we know. I will miss the hand, but I know I will like the new look too. My DD is crushed... My DH is ready for version Fore.

It's about time! I hope the Leave a Legacy junk is next to go at Epcot.
I do not like the LAL stones at all. I am with all of you that say they look like tombstones... however, a friend has a tile of her daughters there.... it is kinda cool to see them on Allyson's 10th birthday.

Lastly, all children under the age of 8 have never seen it in any other form.

I bolded the last part for a simple reason. While I can appreciate that those who have been coming to WDW for years and years and years have never liked the wand, there are others to consider as well. Children. And along that line, I would ask as politely as I can, that people acknowlegde this point of view (even if it is not there own), and tone down some of the close to venom-spitting-glee that the wand is coming down.

:mickey:

Very well said.

Don't get too excited, they're replacing it with a Goofy hand with Epcot falling off...:funny:

:sulley:

:funny::funny::goofy:

[SimbaandNalasMama]

all the Ebay comments got me to thinking, (I know, scary :)) wouldnt it be nice, cool, charitable, etc, if Disney did an auction of the letters, wand, etc and donated all that money to a charity? Kinda like they do after 'Survivor' each year...if you watch that show you know what i am talking about. anyway, they could make money for a charity and all those DisneyFanatics who love the wand could own a piece of Epcot history. Won't happen, but fun to think about it....:mickey:

[WDWfanatic742]

That was the amount of letters left on Wednesday. Wednesday night/Thursday morning they took away all but the Ep facing the parking lot and the E facing the park. Haven't seen anything about what they did last night.

[battlefield2freak]

oh ok thanks i got confused because there was 2 sides of the wand. i wonder why they can only take off 2 letters a day? but they have made good progress on it from what has been posted.

[Ian]

From what I have seen online, there is a contract or something that says that they will be there until at least 2025 with the people who bought them?We have a couple of LaL tiles and all they promised us was that they would be displayed somewhere on Walt Disney World property (not even limited to Epcot) for the next 20 years.

They could easily move them somewhere else and, honestly, I hope they do. Even though I have a couple, I hate the way they junk up the entrance to the park.

[Figgyluv03]

I think I posted something about the wand coming down in another thread, but I'm not sure if it is merged with this one. I do have to say that I'm happy to see the wand come down. I miss SE the way it use to be. Although it was a nice addition to the Millenium Celebration, it should have never went any further than that. I will (in its defense) say that I enjoyed seeing it sparkle at night when I was leaving. If only it were in a different spot. Hmmm, maybe over the monorail tracks coming into the park or something.

[Scar]

i wonder why they can only take off 2 letters a day?OSHA
Lawyers
Insurance

In contrast, The Empire State Building was built in 410 days.

[WDWfanatic742]

Plus the fact that they only have from around 10pm when they can get everyone out of the park to daylight which is around 6am. Then you are working in complete darkness, Spaceship Earth and a monorail berm right next to SSE. You don't want to hit any of those things and cause some real damage.

All letters are off right now except for the E facing the parking lot. :thumbsup:

[goon29]

FINALLY!! It was cool for the milennium, but it seems that maybe Brad Rex was trying to avoid the expense of removal. I even remember a CM inferring that while on the "UNDiscovered Future World" tour. SSE is an icon, and should stand on its own. What's more encouraging is maybe Jim McPhee will pay more attention to the overall park design and not just slap things in that don't fit. Will the ugly purple canopy right behind SSE be next? I can only hope!

[Tekneek]

FINALLY!! It was cool for the milennium, but it seems that maybe Brad Rex was trying to avoid the expense of removal.

Argh. This is the real root of my problems with the Disney company. The show is not as important as counting the pennies these days. They should have removed the entire thing when it didn't say 2000 on it anymore.

[ccp1]

IMHO, they don't need to remove the LaL completely, but I'd love to see them consolidated. When the tombstones were erected, the idea was that they would all be filled with LaL tiles during the Millenium Celebration. Well, we all know how well that idea worked out. If the LaL tiles were consolidated, close to half of the remaining tombstones could be removed, and it would open that space up quite a bit.

[Tekneek]

When the tombstones were erected, the idea was that they would all be filled with LaL tiles during the Millenium Celebration. Well, we all know how well that idea worked out.

I'd think they would be a little embarassed by the state of it. The purchase rate must be quite low for the tiles and having a bunch of partially utilized stones out there has to be seen as a failure. If a ride got such little action, they would surely throw it into 'seasonal' (closed) status. Since this is just a revenue generator, it is given much more of an opportunity to hang around being a bit of an eyesore where the entrace used to look so much better.

[battlefield2freak]

oh guess that makes sense but i was under the impression they was working during hte day to some like they was on the castle when they was painting it. i figure the stars are the next to go

[psychotekkie]

So what is the current status of the Wand removal. Is the E of EPCOT removed yet? Anybody got a picture? Are they on schedule? When will it be complete.

[Mr. Brass Bonanza]

Thank goodness. Now Spaceship Earth will be as it should have always stayed.

[WDWfanatic742]

The last time that they did anything was Friday morning. All the letters were taken off then but the E facing the parking lot. The crane was moving during sunrise today so they probably did something overnight last night.

[battlefield2freak]

thats good id just wish the LaL stones where removed so u can have a nice view of the entrance. but im figuring that they will replace the LaL stones with something else to block the view i bet if they remove them.

[steve5]

I am not sure if anyone has posted this before, but I just returned form WDW and they have started to take down the Epcot letters from SSE. The next day after it was shut down it only had an E on one side. It may be completely down by now.

[tadshome]

:crying: I was hoping to see it one last time when i am there in a few weeks :crying:
:fit::sadwave::fit::sadwave::fit:

[WDWfanatic742]

What they did last night to the wand and letters:

The E is still up facing the parking lot side and half of the blue ribbon underneath it is off. The entire blue ribbon facing the park is off as well.

They seem to not be doing anything on Saturday or Sunday morning.

[WDWfanatic742]

From the webcam (http://www.instacam.com/showcam.asp?id=LKBNV&size=L), you can clearly see that the letters are all gone as of this morning.

[battlefield2freak]

it appears they are gone but i cant tell from that cam. i guess they dont have them working on the weekends for this.

[JRocker]

I guess I'm neither sad or happy to see it go. It was just another part of WDW to me. Guess that's why I never understood the big hullabulloo over it, or any thing else in the parks that people don't like.
Sometimes I get the feeling that some people want the "world" to stay the same. Kind of the opposite of what Walt wanted.
Tearing down the wand is just another change.

[WDWfanatic742]

Here with another update. Looks like the big star on the wand is gone this morning. Thing's are progressing fast.

[battlefield2freak]

thats great they need to keep up at that speed and they will have it done ahead of schedule. they only removed the big star not the little stars surrounding it? if so im willing to bet that they they willl remove the small ones that were around it next.

[battlefield2freak]

from that webcam it appears they have removed more of the wand since there was a crane next to the epcot ball. anyone know what was removed?

[Lizzie]

Any recent pictures of this?

[WDWfanatic742]

I'd post the pictures, but I don't have permission from the person who did take them and I'm not going to post them without it.

As far as I know, the crane wasn't moving this morning. Haven't seen if they did anything over night.

[battlefield2freak]

i noticed a crane like object when i checked the webcam like 2 hours ago and the sky was still early morning but just enough to see the wand. but it looked as if more stars where removed.

[WDWfanatic742]

Nothing was changed today. All they did overnight was move the big star that was beside SSE to a backstage area.

[battlefield2freak]

after i studied the cam i noticed that when i saw the crane it was running a time lapse from yesterday morning, i thought it was this morning at first but when it got to today the crane was there still. they dont move it out of the park before it opens?

[battlefield2freak]

ok today im for sure tsomething was moved off the wand. it appears that from that webcam the section that the big star was attached to was removed.

[WDWfanatic742]

About half of the wand is left with all of the hand and the stars still on SSE.

Here's a picture that a friend sent me yesterday. Just imagine about half of the black wand gone:

SSE Wand Work (http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/8813/71807wandworkparkinglotdj8.jpg)

[Always Goofy]

Thanks for the Pic David!

[Mickey052501]

Hi Friends,

My DH and I just came back last night from WDW(trip report to come), and I just wanted to report to you guys that the EPCOT part of the wand is now gone.

Jen:mickey:

[battlefield2freak]

thats the stuff i like to see bc its close up and its easier to tell whats been changed on it. im guessing your friend is a CM?

[WDWfanatic742]

Nope, he sent me the picture online. Don't know where he got it from.

[Lizzie]

Thanks for the picture. It seems like its coming down so quickly.

[battlefield2freak]

oh. well a CM must have took it bc there is no one in the park. i cant wait for the little red stars to be removed off the ball itself i hope they go soon

[battlefield2freak]

ok as of today at 7:00 AM EST a big piece of the structure was removed. the part that connected the letters to the wand is now halfway removed and it looks like an even biggerd crane is being setup now. it looks like the one they had out once when i was there so they could clean the ball. they just might be removing the little stars or just cleaning it.

[Tightlines]

Thank God

[battlefield2freak]

i know just how u feel although now guest have to look at another crane thats even taller then the first one. i guess right now it makes the most sense to remove those stars since they have removed about half of the poles that the letters were attached to so they can move around more to remove them. they may be cleaning and removing them also but from that webcam u wont be able to tell if the little stars littered around the ball have been removed unless you get closer to the park. Update: at 11:00 EST time they were starting to retract the crane it was only up 2 hours so i bet it was being used for taking the strs off.

[WDWfanatic742]

As far as I can tell, all that they have done overnight is take about half or a third of the lettering structure off. The stars on the actual building seem to still be intact.

[battlefield2freak]

well my only guess that the big crane was up was for cleaning the ball. but that wouldnt make sense since that there will be dirt and debris falling off the structure and what the stars are hiding. and i know it was being used for the ball because it opened up and then swung around above it then it started coming down 2 hours later. maybe some stars that arent underneath the wand structre was removed but we cant tell from that cam. there was a report on the trip reports that said they would have to do blasting during the removal. what would they be blasting? the only thing that comes to mind was where the wand was anchored to the ground.

[battlefield2freak]

it looks like more of the structure that the letters where anchored to was removed last night. if any was it didnt look like it was very much of it. i dont see how they are saying its going to take all next month to finish. at this pace it would be finished by mid august in my opinion.

[DizneyRox]

there was a report on the trip reports that said they would have to do blasting during the removal. what would they be blasting? the only thing that comes to mind was where the wand was anchored to the ground.
Probably the "foundation" supporting that as you suspect, although I'm surprised they would pull that, it might come in handy for some future use. It's backstage, and pretty close to the monorail track as well as other buildings, etc. Seems risky to me, but I'm no demo expert.

[battlefield2freak]

yea a bit to risky unless its a very small blast that only does enough damage to destroy or break what they are blasting. and the foundation is the only thing i could think of since the structure can just be detached by hand and the foundation holding it up is in the ground. but they are taking precautions when they do it by moving all unnesscary workers to the parking lot.

[WDWfanatic742]

The entire arch seems to be down, but I haven't seen any new in park pictures yet.

Wonder what this bird is doing? Picture (http://img522.imageshack.us/img522/5028/630birdmy4.png)

[battlefield2freak]

yea it appeared that way this mrning but the clouds keep making the arch invisible so i cant tell 100%. yea i put it on hlaf hour time lapse and saw that bird dsitting there to lol.

[whitey68]

First time poster and maybe over stepping my bounds. I will miss the hand and wand. It was there the first time we visited wdw in '99. And ten more times since. We would always meet as a family under the wand when ever we arrive or was leaving. It always made SSE and EPCOT bigger then life for me. You know you were arriving at something special, somthing magical. We would make a point of going to the other side of world showcase and have our pictures taken with SSE and the hand and wand in the background each year. I love the way the wind would blow thru the red disks and make them move. And to see the blinking lights and stars at night while you were on the winding road back to your room. I will also miss seeing the ECOPT lights at night on the weather webcam. Now all you see is the bottom half of SSE. It still is EPCOT and SSE but some of the magic is gone. And for me, It will always look like somthing was missing.

[Crow]

:welcome:
the wand wasnt too bad.

[Disneydol]

The entire arch seems to be down, but I haven't seen any new in park pictures yet.

Wonder what this bird is doing? Picture (http://img522.imageshack.us/img522/5028/630birdmy4.png)

LOL!:funny:

I actually laughed out loud at that picture. GREAT!!!!

[WDWfanatic742]

Word is that the hand facing the park side is down. It's down up to where the wrist starts and the rest is still there. It's moving along :thumbsup: