I don’t know about you, but I go back and forth. Sometimes I think life is all about “The Big Picture” things. Reaching for our dreams. Setting goals then achieving them. The biggies: Births; Marriages; Deaths. Then, sometimes I think life if all about the outtake. Life’s small pleasures. Sometimes, especially when I’m really hungry, life seems to boil down to the little things, like–Disneyland’s corn dogs.
I know that sounds crazy. Superficial. Fattening. But, have you ever had a Disneyland corn dog? Well, please don’t judge me then. On Friday I spent the day at Disney’s California Food and Wine Festival for OC Family. I took photos, put together a Whrrl report, interviewed Guy Fieri (who, I’m guessing, probably shares my corn dog theory), and talked to Disney-types about what exactly goes on at the 40 day festival.
To see my video of the day, click here.
One of the Disney-types I talked to was Gary Maggetti, Disneyland’s Director of Food and Beverage. If there’s one thing about Gary (besides looking a lot like David Duchovny and having a voice that would make James Earl Jones sound like a prepubescent boy) it is he can tell a story. He really gets into it. When he mentioned he had a “Disneyland Corn Dog STORY” I hit record on my FLIP and let him have at it. So, even if you aren’t into corn dogs (like that’s even possible), here is a great little story. (Plus he tells us where to get the delicacy while the park is being redesigned.)
I suspect the answers to life lies, like most answers, somewhere in the middle. Right between “climb the highest mountain” and the Disneyland corn dog.
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For more of my unsound theories and random observations, check out my newly reconstructed “About me” page. It includes things like: “I have a theory that biscotti is a mafia-backed baked good because I haven’t ever met anyone who likes them, yet they are everywhere” and the more earnest “Someday I hope to be the person my mom thinks I am.”
Adam_thedad says
Too funny, I use to work for Gary back in my Disney days. We uses to call him the voice of God on the radio back when he was a manager in outdoor vending because his voice was so deep! He is a really good guy!
Elaina Avalos says
He DOES look like Duchovny. And now “David Duchovny why don’t you love me?” is going through my head.
Love the corn dog story. Totally get that food memory thing and Disneyland. My thing is the Dole Whip of course.
Joe Sweden says
You’re right, it’s right smack dab in the middle somewhere. That’s why I like your blog, it covers it all.
lisa mertins says
dole whip, dole whip, DOLE WHIP!!!! this series w/gary has been great. but what’s a corn dog dinner without a dole whip for dessert?
Mental P Mama says
Oh great. Now I need a corn dog. And you nailed your description of the face and the voice on the head! What’s a Dole Whip?
Doug l says
He’s cute! More please!
Connie says
Lol Doug There is something about a man talking about food that enhances his cuteness. Yes, more please.
Jen & Bern says
Oh yes, Dole Whip! By the way, we can’t forget the churros!
Christine says
My friend Cheryl loved this story. She loves the corn dogs and once waited almost an hour for one when we were at Disneyland together.
Shelly says
I love the Disneyland Corn Dog and totally get this. It’s important, the little things are important and make life sweet. I’m so glad they changed back to the old corn dog, I wouldn’t want to have to hurt Gary. He’s a babe and a half.
Nat says
This is the most Existential post about corn dogs ever written. Nicely done.
Christine Babu says
Great post
Maria says
Disneyland Corn Dogs are hands down the best in the entire world. 100% sure of it. No doubt whatsoever! 😀
I LOVE your post Suz. And, of course, the awesome interview. 😀
noe noe girl says
Now I have the perfect reason for going back to Disneyland!
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Lindsey (aka the Modchik) says
I live for corn dogs – now I HAVE to try one at DISNEYLAND!
Elaina Avalos says
Since my personal, all time favorite Disneyland treat is the Dole Whip, I’d love to hear from Gary about that. And also? A promise in writing that the Dole Whip will never disappear. 🙂
Rachel Maguire says
Glad the Disneyland Corn dog is finally getting the recognition it deserves! I just have to get one every time I go. I love hearing little quirky insights such as this, especially about my favorite theme park.
PE says
Who knew a story of a corndog could be made to sound so sexy? Love hearing Gary speak, too bad he is a married man guess he is just another part of the Disney fantasy ladies.
foolery says
I was riveted. Absolutely riveted. He rocks the corn dog story all right. I think I’m even sweating a little. Nice job, both of you. Now I’m hungry.