[John Larock]

I have been coordinating the travel for Team #365. I spoke with some FIRST folks last week and they divulged (after a bit of prodding) that there will be a $75 surcharge for each team member not using the Disney FIRST package. When asked about what the $75 actually gets you (or deprives you of if you don't pay it), I was told that it was mainly the Team Party (presumably held at Epcot again this year).

After doing some cost comparisons, The Miracle Workerz will most likely stay off site again this year (we have done this the past two years). In the past, we have rented houses for our team. This is nice in that (1) the cost is lower per person overall, (2) we can purchase the park hopper pass that makes the most sense for us (3 day is usually more than enough), (3) we make a trip to the local grocery store and buy most of our food this way, make sandwiches, cereal for breakfast, etc., (4) we have a nice space for group meetings in a private environment, and (5) each house has a swimming pool.

On the flip-side, we are not at the park, so we do have to commute there each day, transportation logistics may be a bit more difficult, and the off-competition time interaction with other teams is limited. However, as an adult leader on our team, I feel much more in control of our situation and feel that we are able to interact more as a team.

Every team may have their preferences when it comes to Disney travel and lodging. We have felt that our current setup works well for us.

Best of luck to everyone this season. Safe travels to all.
Go MOE!

-J-