Our little beasts, Molly and Carter, our Branson Titanic mascots, wrapped up their first summer season this past Labor Day Holiday with many a fan clamoring to meet them.  They have so many fans, adults and children alike.  The children, the subject of my blog this week, have been a delight…..for the most part.  I know that there are days that without our two little doggies, and the beautiful babies, the adorable toddlers, and the clever adolescents, and our curious tweens, and yes, even the “terrible” teenagers, the museum would be, well, too quiet.  I have to admit they brighten my day and make me laugh at their inquisitive questioning, wide eyed innocence, and interesting responses to our friendly interrogations.

Titanic Teen Ambassador Austin Dalton

One of our most Titanic knowledgeable teenagers that I and the crews in both Pigeon Forge and Branson have come to know and love is Austin Dalton.  He is a regular at Titanic Pigeon Forge, and has even come to visit the Branson Titanic Museum Attraction.  He is helping to head up our first ever “Teen Poetry Contest”.  If you are in the grades 7 through 12, submit your best poetry, subject, “The Titanic”, and on October 1st, the winner will be selected.  The winner will receive a family pass to the museum.  Details can be obtained on our website.  You can also read Austin’s tribute poem about Titanic on the cover page.  Thank you Austin and good luck to all those that enter.

This past Monday, Labor Day, I encountered three little boys, they were full of questions, information about their dogs at home, tips on how to scoot up and down the stairs of the Grande Staircase, so as not to fall.  The eldest was all about where the ship had sank, the water tight compartments, incredulation about the poor decision making on the part of our Captain Smith.  The youngest even suggested that our life vests may be very valuable but needed laundering.  They were good kids.  The problem was, their parents were totally oblivious to the fact they were very loud, rambunctious, unruly, and disruptive.  Angel, who is an angel, who works as part of our cleaning crew was just about to pull her hair out, Officer John, who is as patient as and calm as you can find, was at the end of his tether, and First Class Maid Phoebe had just a bit of smoke coming from her wee little ears.  Naturally, I was called in.  I seem to understand the rebel children.  That’s why I know so much about these three.  We managed to get through the museum without injury, destruction, or fatality, but the point I’m trying to make, is that these boys were basically good boys, I fault the parents in this case, Dad was horribly shy and just wanted a good day, and Mother was totally oblivious.  They do their children an injustice.  So parents, be aware of your children, these three just wanted attention.  Which brings me to my other point.  This marks the anniversary of the passing of a young boy that we acknowledged in an April blog of this year, Jacob.  He loved the Titanic, he never had a chance to romp our corridors, but dreamed of one day coming to see us at the museum, his Mother and family grieve daily on his loss and we grieve that we never had the chance to meet this young boy that yearned to be a Captain of a great Ocean Liner.  Jacob’s Mother wishes desperately that she could have him back, and you can bet she would be sure that he was well behaved, courteous, and respectful.  So parents, be grateful for your children, they are a gift.

Jacob W. Porter, Forever In Our Hearts. 2001-2009.

This Saturday also marks the Anniversary of 9/11.  We remember and honor the 2208 passengers and crew members daily at both Titanic locations.  A different type of tragedy, but a tragedy nonetheless.  In honor of those that died I would like to offer this poem, written by Actor/Poet, Tom Peters.

LET US REMEMBER
“September Eleven, Two Thousand OneCoffee began to perk

New Yorkers went to work
Then Planes hit The Towers
The whole world went berserk!
Firemen to the rescue
But trapped on the stairs
Beside them, brave policemen,
Remember them in your prayers.
A few precious moments
In time had elapsed
When both Twin Towers
Completely collapsed.
Blazing fires, twisted steel, heavy choking smoke,
Heroes to ground zero, the valiant volunteer,
The love ones, of lost ones
Who will never hold them near.
Over three thousand Americans
Died that tragic day.
Hunt down the hate hyenas
With their blood make them pay.
Remember the patriots on flight 93?
Who gave their lives to save Washington D. C.
Our beat upon, Pentagon
Still carries on.
Our freedom fighting forces
Bomb evil every dawn.
On September Eleven, Two Thousand One,
The War on Terrorism, began to be won.
Here in America, united we stand
For love ones who fell,
On ground zero land.
In the breeze of freedom,
Let, “Old Glory Wave”
And terrorists never
Our nation enslave.
Let Us Remember

Copyright 2001

:: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: ::

This past week I have the excitement and pleasure to frolic in my other home, Pigeon Forge, Tennesse, with crew members and guests alike at The Titanic Museum Attraction here in the Great Smoky Mountains.  Upon arriving, traveling up the Parkway toward the magnificent ship that is our museum here in Pigeon Forge it’s clear where the term “Smoky Mountains” arrived.  The wet, humid weather had created mist rising in the distance, snaking its way through the distant mountain vistas.  The Mountains were indeed Smoky, quite simply, beautiful.   With great humility, and gratitude, I thank all the travelers that have decided to give our new museum a visit, over a quarter million have traveled through the corridors and galleries at the Pigeon Forge museum since our opening on April 8th.

The week has been a whirl with visits from our Twitter winner, Jarrod Griffith, and his grandparents, visits with our various group leaders in the area, the local Chambers of Commerce from Gatlinburg, to Knoxville, various radio and television stations, and reunions with all of my Pigeon Forge crew members. As the year continues, I will be fortunate enough to be spending more time at our Pigeon Forge location, and such fun it is and will be.

Titanic Attraction in Pigeon Forge

The Crew Members here at The Titanic Pigeon Forge Museum Attraction are becoming more immersed in their roles as purveyors of the Titanic legacy, all due to the efforts of their fine abilities, First Class Maid Jamie and her loving tutoring, and the support of Officer Danita, Officer Lorene, Officer Mark, Mary and John, and of course my loyal support of them all.  I really feel the bond building between our Mother ship in Branson and her gorgeous daughter here in Pigeon Forge.  I was traveling with Officers Mel, Jane, and Kristy yesterday, we went many places, at a local La Quinta Hotel, a gentleman here in the Smokies for a family reunion exclaimed from the distance of the lobby, “Jaynee!  Why aren’t you in Branson?”  Small world, he was a local of Missouri and knew me from the Branson Titanic, and I reminded him of our new museum here in Pigeon Forge.  At one Visitor Center a gentleman visitor to the area, he immediately recognized me and the officers.  He had been to the Titanic Museum Attraction in Branson and was planning to visit our sister ship here in Tennessee.

Crew members in Pigeon Forge shine daily, battling 100 degree temps they consistently put forth amazing efforts in customer satisfaction.  First Class Maid Jody is always quick with a flirt of the skirt and a twinkle in her eye, a local favorite.  First Class Maid Ashley is so full of energy and knowledge she will regale you with stories and gossip that only she can convey in her south London way.  Officers Nick, Ron, and Keith hold forth in various galleries and I was frankly chilled with the description of hypothermia given to myself and other guests by Officer Ron.

We have been lucky to have our Captain Lowell in the past few weeks here in Pigeon Forge, a mountain of a man, a trained and skilled actor that serves as the pillar for all of our Captain Smiths.

I’m leaving out so many, but what I’m trying to convey is the pride I feel to be associated with both crews.  For it is clear, although separated by hundreds of miles, both Titanic Pigeon Forge and Titanic Branson share the same goal, to continue the stories and legacy of R.M.S. Titanic and we are indeed one huge crew, not two separate crews.  A Grand Thing Indeed!

So much more to tell, but I must fly!  Till next time, toodles, First Class Maid Jaynee.

:: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: ::

School proms, Graduations, summer vacation plans, all begin in the beautiful month of June.  The Titanic Museum Attractions in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and Branson, Missouri, are all geared up and ready for the busy, busy, vacation season.

Part of our success relies on tour professionals coming to our museums and enjoying some of the wonderful things we have to offer.  One such group visited our Branson museum last week.  T.A.P., Travel Alliance Partners, a group of tour companies from the United States and Canada that travel the globe seeking out the most entertaining and wonderful destinations for their patrons to travel to.  On this trip to Branson, Missouri we were fortunate to be selected by the Louisiana contingent of this esteemed group to host an elegant sit down dinner experience at our museum.

Thanks to Kristy Merritt and Kristina Hagey and our talented crew we pulled out all the stops.  The group arrived in their motor coach and by auto and was welcomed by Captain David and myself.  After a brief orientation and assigned a boarding pass representing one of the 2208 passengers and crew members aboard the R.M.S. Titanic, these well traveled individuals left their old selves behind and entered an Edwardian world of class, elegance, and Titanic ocean travel.  Met with flutes of champagne upon entering our impressive lobby, they had the opportunity to become familiar with their boarding passes, observe our two new love hearts, Molly and Carter, two King Charles Spaniels gamboling and frolicking in their kennel, tricked out like an opulent baggage area on board Titanic, complete with an observation window, they rounded the corner into the shipyard where staff and caterers had set up a charming, pub like atmosphere.  Appropriately situated by our Grapes Tavern Display.  Roped off, we seated guests as individually, and in groups, creating an intimacy I think that was enjoyed by all.  I know the full service bar was enjoyed by all, my bartending skills came in handy this evening, to be sure.  Not to give the impression that this was a less then delicate crowd, they were ready to have a wonderful time, and we at Titanic are here to serve.

The theme of the dinner was southern Louisiana.  Opening with a black eyed pea seviche salad, a Creole inspired entrée of Tilapia with a delectable shrimp sauce, along with a petite filet, cooked to order, no small feat in a museum.  Asparagus and Cajun inspired grits dressed the meal, all served and prepared expertly by our house caterer, Touch.

After dinner we gathered at the Grande Staircase for words of thanks and acknowledgments and to be royally entertained by a new act in the town of Branson.  “The Cats Pajamas”, currently performing at The Dutton Family Theatre.  A doo-wop quartet with charm and talent that regaled the crowd with old favorites from the doo-wop era, working and flirting the crowd with expertise.

Upstairs more good times, with a lovely selection of after dinner wines, crème brulee, and pecan tartlets.  Between the lovely menu, great entertainment, the stunning history of R.M.S. Titanic, and the crew of our museum.  Our guests simply did not want to leave, a compliment of the highest order.

So, between, Titanic Museum Attraction in Branson, and Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge, I personally believe that 2010 promises to be a phenomenal time.  Thanks to the T.A.P. group, we hope you return with your own guests and we promise to treat you to another memorable trip through history.

Bon Appétit, First Class Maid, Jaynee

:: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: ::

But I know when I’ll be back again.  I’m taking a quick flight to the Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.  Captain David, myself, and various crew, are winging our way to the Smokies for our sister ship’s first catered affair.  On Thursday, May 20th, the Titanic Pigeon Forge will be hosting an elegant benefit event for The United Way.  We have been asked to attend and of course help in any way we can, besides how could we stay away?  My blog will be brief this week and when I return I will fill you all in on our first big party.

First Class Maid Jaynee with Molly and Carter

Before I bid farewell however, Kudos to Molly and Carter, our adorable mascots and their three dog handlers, Kelli Kimball, Kelly Riley, and Kim Bright.  For the past three weeks, Kelli, Kelly, Molly and Carter, I and Kristina Hagey have been visiting schools with our pet education program.  Branson School for the first two weeks with first grade and kindergarten, and the Forsyth School with pre-kindergarten all the way through fourth grade.  The girls did beautifully, performing their tricks and enjoying all the attention.  They especially love their very own song, The Titanic Dog Song, which I had the privilege of singing for them and our young audience.  It’s a snappy little number, with a rag-time feel, and just perfect for these prize pups.

They have a full schedule at the museum, public appearances, and next week it doesn’t let up.  Plum Nellie Days is happening in downtown Branson this Saturday and we’ll be there to help with the judging of the “Outrageous Dog Show”.  Can’t wait, please stop by and see us, either out and about or of course at the museum.

Must go, but I’ll be back home to greet you with all kinds of news.

First Class Maid, Jaynee
:: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: ::

Last week I left all of you at the beautiful Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge, in the Time Sequence Gallery.  Enter the Interactive Gallery.  Like Titanic Branson, Pigeon Forge has the three sloping decks, demonstrating the degree of slope as the R.M.S. Titanic quickly sank into the sea.  You Are There, on the deck of the Titanic as you try to climb the steepest of the three decks.

As in Branson, Pigeon Forge has created a lifeboat, same size dimension as an actual lifeboat on the original Titanic, this time paying tribute to passengers on lifeboat No. 4.  Passengers like First Class Passengers Madeline Astor and Lucille Carter, Crew Member, Thomas Dillon, Third Class Passenger Lillian Asplund, with her Mother and two brothers.  You are There as you listen to their stories as well as others that spent four to six hours awaiting rescue.

Tot Titanic

As well as displaying more amazing artifacts, this new Interactive Gallery boasts what we call, Tot Titanic.  An interactive playground for the little ones.  They are able to learn the skill of nautical knot tying, young and old alike are able to send telegraph messages with the help of a computerized telegraph that will display their efforts on a computer screen.  A pint sized ships wheel, where the little ones with the help of a digital movie screen, try to steer the great ship Titanic out of harm’s way….I was not much of a seaman, I crashed her every time.  And then my personal favorite, POLAR the Titanic Bear.  So sweet, the little ones are able to carry on a conversation through the magic of computer science with Polar, who magically can see and talk to the tykes.

Titanic Memorial Room

This gallery will then lead you to the Memorial Room.  Once again, as in Branson, a moving experience.  This is the moment of truth, if you have not encountered the truth about your passenger or crew member listed on your boarding pass, then this is it.  All 2208 names are etched in glass.  Divided in sections, first, second, third class, and of course the crew.  Slightly different then the museum in Branson, instead of survivors being indicated by a line beneath the name, those persons that survived are listed on the top of the column, those poor souls that did not survive are on the bottom of the column.  Grouped in this manner, one realizes the tragic reality that occurred 98 years ago.

Now, hang on, the Discovery Gallery is next, and yes, YOU ARE THERE!  When you walk through the dark corridor and into this gallery you are struck by walls of graphics and deep sea photographs of the R.M.S. Titanic at the bottom of the North Atlantic.  The gallery itself is dark with subdued lighting that recreates what it would be like if you were indeed at the bottom of the ocean about to discover the wreck herself.  In front of you, across the arced expanse of this room, are images projected onto the wall.  Images and film that were taken when owner of both museums, John Joslyn, took his own expedition to the Titanic.  Only the second to do so, he and his crew were the first to actually bring artifacts up from the sea floor.  All of this is realized in this fantastic gallery.  As you move into this fabulous movie- scape, you can look down onto what seems to be the bottom of the ocean, as if you are in the very same submersible overlooking the remains of the Titanic.  All of this is narrated through the sound system as if the explorers are discovering the Titanic’s remains for the first time.  The music used for the sound track to this experience is overwhelming and this tour indeed culminates into an experience of a lifetime.

I have just touched the tip of the iceberg in describing our new museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.  You must come and see for yourself.  Both Titanic Branson and Titanic Pigeon Forge are truly experiences not to miss.

Thank you, First Class Maid Jaynee

:: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: ::

Last week I left you in Third Class at our new Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

Leaving the Third Class Corridor, You Are There, in first class.  The Grande Staircase of course.  As in the Branson exhibit the beauty of this duplication of the top two decks of The Grande Staircase is stunning.  Above your head, the domed skylight in all its glory, milk glass with rod iron scroll work in an art nouveau design.  A crystal chandelier hangs in the center, the familiar bronze statue of a cupid holding a 24 karat, gold leaf touchier, beckons the guests up the double, oak stair case.  Equipped with an elevator the guest can either ascend using the stairs or travel upward on the lift, very modern convenience for 1912.  On the first landing, the famous, hand carved clock, entitled “Honor and Glory Crowning Time”.  Two angels on either side of the time piece, intricately inlaid in the oak paneling.

First Class Suite at Titanic Pigeon Forge

Now, You Are There, the First Class Parlour Suite.  A sumptuous parlour area, with an electric fireplace, the famous chaise lounge, Edwardian style furnishings, settee, delicate tables and chairs with the luxurious furnishings one would expect traveling First Class on Titanic.  The parlour suites were the priciest, coming in at about $125,000 in today’s prices.  These suites would normally include a bath, two bedrooms, the parlour, and a private, promenade deck.  The prettily appointed port holes on either side of the fireplace make the guest believe they really are there in First Class.  In Pigeon Forge, we have duplicated the First Class Parlour Suite of First Class passengers, Mr. and Mrs. Strauss, co-owners of Macy’s Department Store; James Cameron recreated this very suite for the character “Rose” in his epic movie, “The Titanic”.

Then next, the guest travels an expansive First Class Corridor, which takes them to the First Class Dining Salon, larger than the one in Branson, this room is simply lovely, mirrored walls, white woodwork, and display after display of pictures, stories, and priceless artifacts, help tell the story of Titanic’s First Class passengers.  Included in this display is the story of Edmond Stone, First Class Steward on board Titanic, his key, the very one that opened the suites of so many First Class passengers on D deck including that of famous film and stage actress, Dorothy Gibson, is on display.  This key was recovered from his body, and if it could only talk.

Captain's Bridge at Titanic Pigeon Forge

The guest now enters the Captains Bridge.  You Are There, the night of April 14th, 1912.  Telegraphs, the Wheel, phones on the wall to contact various, vital areas of the ship, one looks out, past the windows onto the exterior of the ship, facing the bow, one can only imagine what it could possibly have been like to look out into the dark moonless night, and perhaps see up ahead the specter of a gigantic iceberg looming right ahead.  This chilling realization is fully realized, when upon opening the door to the Promenade deck, a soundtrack begins, complete with the sound of frantic warnings and orders being shouted out, then the shock of the sound of metal being torn apart by razor sharp ice from that hateful demon of an iceberg.  On the Promenade deck, guests will experience the frigid 31 degree temps of that night, feel the 28 degree water that surrounds the deck, and be able to touch, experience, and watch our ten foot iceberg that grows and expands every day, You Are There.

Next, on to the Movie Theatre, You Are There, once again, watching detailed footage of the building of the Olympic and Titanic, the aftermath of the tragedy in New York, and the retriever ships going out on their sorrowful trek to collect the remains of Titanic.

The Time Sequence Room, as in the display in Branson, reveals to the guest how quickly the Titanic met her fate.  From the initial collision at 11:40 p.m. to Titanic’s last moments at 2:20 a.m.  In the center of the gallery, a thermos, belonging to Titanic’s second youngest passenger, Barbara West, filled lovingly with warm milk by her Father, given to her Mother, Daddy’s last gift to his darling daughter.

So much to report about this new and amazing Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge.  Next week I will wrap the tour up.  We are coming up on some new features I do not want to rush through, so until next week, remember whether it’s Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, or Branson, Missouri, when a guest experiences the Titanic Museum Attractions, You Are There.

First Class Maid, Jaynee

:: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: ::