My computer and I had a major disagreement last night (and unfortunately it won) so I am late but I wanted to go ahead and post anyway. Thanks for a really fun challenge--it has been really interesting to read all of the different facts!
My layout was inspired by this information:
But in 1988 it happened to be Mickey’s 60th birthday and what better way to celebrate it that creating a brand-new themed “Land” in his honor. Although the Main Mouse would not turn 60 until November 18 of that year, Walt Disney World built “Mickey’s Birthdayland” in record time. This was such an important event that a new railroad stop was constructed just for Mickey and the Walt Disney World Railroad was re-named “Mickey’s Birthdayland Express” The land had its grand opening on June 18th, and to help unveil Mickey’s new (But Temporary!) land was none other than Cindy Williams from Laverne and Shirley fame. This land was between Tomorrowland and Fantasyland (They even had to shorten the track of Tomorrowland’s Indy Speedway (It was then known as the Gran Prix Raceway) to make room for it. Even Nancy Reagan was there for the ribbon cutting ceremonies. (It is interesting to note that this was the first new “Land” to be added since opening day in October 1971)
While this new "land" was never intended to be a long term addition--it was still a little sad to see it go. This picture was from our visit at the beginning of Feb 2011--about a week before it closed forever.
