UPDATE: All Disney Theme Parks re-opened September 12. Disney Stores expected open as well. DS Cast Members were given an 800 number to call about reporting to work.

Courtesy of a fellow INTERCOTee
Email from Michael Eisner & Bob Iger:
Dear Fellow Cast Members:

We have been inundated with requests from cast members as to how they might be able to help in the relief effort following yesterday’s tragedy in New York and Washington. In response, The Walt Disney Company Foundation has established DisneyHAND: Survivor Relief Fund. Donations will go to organizations providing assistance to victims and their families. Every dollar you give will be matched by your company.

Also, please remember that there is an ongoing need for blood donations and you can call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) to determine the donation center closest to you. Please check your Disney newsletters for information about any blood donation efforts that may be coming to your workplace.

We have all been moved by the self-sacrifice of people heroically offering assistance in the aftermath of yesterday’s horrific events. It is in this spirit of helping our fellow citizens in their time of need that we have established this fund and welcome your participation.

Michael & Bob

{NOTE to Intercot Members: At this time, this fund is only available for employees of The Walt Disney Company and its affiliates. Should you find that you want to contribute to relief funds, please contact the Red Cross.}

INTERCOT has been told by Cast Members at the Resort that while the theme parks are operating, security is extremely heavy. Cast Members can expect to have IDs double checked for photo and 2001 sticker confirmation. Guests can expect their bags to be searched by security. All flags were flown at half mast today and Main Street music was off. Crowds were very light today at the Disneyland Resort.

News from September 11:

The Disneyland Resort and all Disney Theme Parks are CLOSED today in light of the tragic attacks on New York City and Washington D.C. More details will be posted in this article about the tragedy as they become available.

According to INTERCOT's source, Disney is closing all its theme parks, water parks, shopping centers, recreation complexes and golf courses. A source from The Disney Store said all stores were closed as well. All resort hotels are still open. Administrative and hotel personnel are to report to work. Cast members who work in other parts of the parks do not have to report to work.

Many other attractions in Southern California have also been closed, including theme parks such as Knott's Berry Farm. Tonight's performance of The Lion King has been cancelled. The Los Angeles School District IS open for classes today, but all extra-curricular activities have been cancelled. Please call before going out in the Southern California area to confirm that various attractions are operating.

As stated in the news, all flights have been grounded nation-wide. All Southern California airports have been closed until noon tomorrow at the EARLIEST. Los Angeles International Airport has been completely evacuated and closed off, including the exits near the airport on the 405 freeway.


INTERCOT West Responds