LOU N,
You are right on with that. Last year Disney mandated that Elves no longer be on the train, but per the story they have to be dressed as chefs as in the movie with the hot chocolate. Most of the elf volunteers had been doing this for decades, developed an elf wardrobe at their own expense. Change doesnt come easily. With the more demanding program and changed costume requirements many quit. This year has leveled off somewhat but it's still short handed some nights. Trainman and operating crew are still doing our same jobs and love going out to work the train regardless of the Disney program changes. Disney wanted a consistent portrayal of the story on the many railroads that perform these seasonal trips. CVSR has always done a fantastic job performing the story and operating a safe reliable train for all. I actually think the changes are more in tune with the story, and I have no problem with it other than the ride is 15 mins shorter and some of our time with passengers is cut short. It's a great program for the kids, and it helps keep CVSR running trains the rest of the year. It sold out again, as it has for most years. And Disney does not just allow this to happen for free. Last time I was privy to numbers, 30% of each Polar Express ticket goes to Disney. CVSR also has to buy the hot chocolate, cookies, golden tickets, christmas decorations, etc. But the story is a huge draw, I doubt if it were just train rides with Santa that it would command 5 weeks of 2 daily trains or more, sold out nose to tail.
