NEW GREAT SWAP/SMILEY DEBATE(former "Pop Will .... Fridges For Swap?" thread)

[kadesha]

To whoever asked about getting a refund when/if the fridge is lost:

You only pay to use the fridge until it's paid for, after that, it's free.

I wasn't one that had to pay in the fridge swap that I'm involved in. However, I did pay in the stroller swap that I'm involved in. If something happens to that stroller, it's not the leader's fault, so I would not expect her to give me my money back, nor would I be angry. Giving $15 is a chance I'm taking to save $180+ on stroller useage. Most people involved in the swaps have read the rules and understand them. How can the leader be blamed if the fridge is lost or the stroller is stolen in the park?

 

[disneychrista]

I simply wanted to make it a nice simple thread where swappers could brainstorm and discuss ways to better manage the swaps.

I gave my idea (opinion) on how to make the swaps work better limit it to face to face swaps. If this can not be done then my idea (opinon) is to find an alternate means of storing the fridge.

 

[msmayor]

To whoever asked about getting a refund when/if the fridge is lost:

You only pay to use the fridge until it's paid for, after that, it's free.

I wasn't one that had to pay in the fridge swap that I'm involved in. However, I did pay in the stroller swap that I'm involved in. If something happens to that stroller, it's not the leader's fault, so I would not expect her to give me my money back, nor would I be angry. Giving $15 is a chance I'm taking to save $180+ on stroller useage. Most people involved in the swaps have read the rules and understand them. How can the leader be blamed if the fridge is lost or the stroller is stolen in the park?

Actually, one of the swap threads I saw had folks continuing to pay in for 'replacement' stuff...so it seems that in some cases its more than just paying for the fridge until its paid for.

To EVERYONE:

I just wanted to say that when I started this thread, I was honestly just looking for some info. I had an idea that if I opened it to peoples opinions on swaps, it would turn into a debate-and it has-to put it mildly.

If in my post requesting others to not post if they were simply posting opinions as to the validity/correctness of swaps, I offended you I am sorry. It's not that I was trying to control the thread because I don't want people to voice their opinions, I simply wanted to make it a nice simple thread where swappers could brainstorm and discuss ways to better manage the swaps. But instead a person has to sift through tons of irrelevant (to the thread) opinions. Not that you are not entitled to your opinion-it's just wasted here. Swappers don't care if you like them or not, if you think they are right, etc. Again-not being rude-just saying.

I do though believe that as it was posted, the old debate thread should be brought back, because some people really live for a good fight. WHY else would you come onto a swap thread and post anti-swap posts?Why else try and goad swappers into a fight? And you can say you are not doing it-but we all know you are. But in reading some of the PPs other posts on other threads, it just seems to be your nature

Yes it is a public form. But I am in a public place having a conversation with someone and you walk up and butt in, with nothing useful to add to the original conversation-YES you do have the right to do that-it is a free country-but it is also bad manners. And maybe that is the issue-not whether it is your right, but whether is it the right thing to do.

I was almost going to ask a MOD to close this post, but apparently some people really need this thread-so have at it.


Let the flamin' begin-lol

lisadr, I don't think I've read much in the way of "anti-swap" posts. What I have read is a smattering of opinions on why swaps can be difficult to manage, along with some commentary on what individual swappers can do themselves to keep Disney OUT of the mix. Perhaps I missed a post here or there, but I don't recall seeing anyone make a blanket statement that the swaps are bad or illegal or anything else...just that they can be cumbersome and confusing for Disney's Luggage Service to help manage.

Looking for a solution that involves the assistance and cooperation of Disney is admirable but experience and outcome has shown time and time again that their assistance and cooperation cannot and should not be depended on.

 

[lisadr]

I gave my idea (opinion) on how to make the swaps work better limit it to face to face swaps. If this can not be done then my idea (opinon) is to find an alternate means of storing the fridge.

If i missed you idea, I am sorry. It's just that there have been so many posts that were not helpful-I am overwhelmed and having trouble finding info that is helpful. Also to be honest if the post starts to sound like it's going in a certain direction or if I recognize certain posters-I kinda just "glaze" over them-not important to me

 

[kadesha]

Actually, one of the swap threads I saw had folks continuing to pay in for 'replacement' stuff...so it seems that in some cases its more than just paying for the fridge until its paid for.

As long as they agree to it and understand the rules then that's their prerogative. It's still cheaper than paying daily rental fees. I think most people involved in swaps understand that something *could* happen to their fridge or stroller at any time. I read a thread yesterday in which the fridge had become lost and several people were just "out" of their money. No one was upset, it's just a chance you take.

 

[maxiesmom]

If i missed you idea, I am sorry. It's just that there have been so many posts that were not helpful-I am overwhelmed and having trouble finding info that is helpful. Also to be honest if the post starts to sound like it's going in a certain direction or if I recognize certain posters-I kinda just "glaze" over them-not important to me

I really don't mean this to be rude, so please don't take it wrong. But if you are only looking for input from swap leaders, or swap members, maybe you should PM them or have them PM you? That way you would get the answers and input you want with a minimun of fuss. You really can't control what the rest of us say or comment on on these boards, so continuing to try and do so is only going to be frustrating for everyone.

 

[bavaria]

I gave my idea (opinion) on how to make the swaps work better limit it to face to face swaps. If this can not be done then my idea (opinon) is to find an alternate means of storing the fridge.

As did I - I suggested using Owners Locker as the 'middle man' rather than Disney luggage services.

I did also explain why Disney is no longer issuing receipts for items such as these, in an effort to better explain to the OP the why of her issue.

I think that many of us have tried to be helpful, and have made suggestions as well as explained facts, and frankly it is a little disappointing to be painted with such a broad brush as a potstirrer or miserable or negative.

Most of us do genuinely have a desire to help and share information, and I am sorry if the OP cannot see that for whatever reason. (Hopefully her eyes did not 'glaze' over this post)

 

[lisadr]

"Actually, one of the swap threads I saw had folks continuing to pay in for 'replacement' stuff...so it seems that in some cases its more than just paying for the fridge until its paid for."

Just to clarify, our swap we continue to take the $ and put it into an account. When there is enough money in the fund to replace the items, we then start "refunding" the original cost, so actually it's free for everybody. It may take awhile to get your refund, the swap needs to fill up, but I, nor do any other swap leaders own or make $ on the swap. If you read the sticky on swaps you will see-it is not allowed to make a profit off Dis boards and I have no interest it it.

I really just volunteered to lead a swap to help others save a little $. Before I joined/started a swap I had planned on buying my own fridge and leaving it behind. I just felt that wasteful and kind rude to leave Disney to dispose of my junk. Then I read about swaps and it sounds like a great idea to me.


I do feel that a lot of posters indeed do have a negative opinion toward swaps. I would mistake them for liking swaps-lol.

I guess we have to agree to disagree.

 

[kadesha]

As did I - I suggested using Owners Locker as the 'middle man' rather than Disney luggage services.

I did also explain why Disney is no longer issuing receipts for items such as these, in an effort to better explain to the OP the why of her issue.

I think that many of us have tried to be helpful, and have made suggestions as well as explained facts, and frankly it is a little disappointing to be painted with such a broad brush as a potstirrer or miserable or negative.

Most of us do genuinely have a desire to help and share information, and I am sorry if the OP cannot see that for whatever reason. (Hopefully her eyes did not 'glaze' over this post)

There have been some great recommendations. The Owners Locker that you have mentioned several times is a good suggestion. There are also some snarky negative responses. Hopefully everyone can get back on track soon, surely there isn't much else to say about this that hasn't already been said!

 

[lisadr]

I really don't mean this to be rude, so please don't take it wrong. But if you are only looking for input from swap leaders, or swap members, maybe you should PM them or have them PM you? That way you would get the answers and input you want with a minimun of fuss. You really can't control what the rest of us say or comment on on these boards, so continuing to try and do so is only going to be frustrating for everyone.

I totally get what you are saying. I guess I was just naive in thinking I could simply ask people to not turn the thread into a debate.

The only reason I did not PM in the beginning is that with limited space in the mailbox, and I wanted to leave that space open for swap PMs and Fairy Godmother requests. In posting in the budget board threads, I figured I would be in contact with a lot more swappers then contacting each one. And not just Pop swappers either.

I am not trying to control anyone, just requesting certain info.

 

[parkers*momma]

Simce it has been stated repeatedly that opinions are fine, here's mine:

Well, I don't think this post is an example of good manners, either.

When you post on a public forum, there is no "butting in". It is out there for everyone to see, and to comment on. And as your original post was on how the Pop may be not allowing fridge swaps, some of us wanted to point out the reasons why they might feel the need to do so. So it was all relevent.

You have the question partially right, Lisa was asking for help. She wasn't asking for a bunch of reasons WHY swaps should be banned/stopped. SHE WAS SEEKING INFORMATION on a remedy incase it was halted. Instead, the thread was bombarded with opinions that wasn't any help to her or other swappers...just opinions on why it should be stopped...how is that helpful???

Good Manners might have been "I don't agree with swapping because I feel it is taking advantage of CMs, but since you asked for help...here is an Idea. AND offer a solution to help out those who chose to participate in swaps.

Well, I don't think this post is an example of good manners, either.

When you post on a public forum, there is no "butting in". It is out there for everyone to see, and to comment on. And as your original post was on how the Pop may be not allowing fridge swaps, some of us wanted to point out the reasons why they might feel the need to do so. So it was all relevent.

How are the reasons why they should quite holding fridges relevent to the OPs question or what swappers are going to do, IF THEY ARE STOPPED? I personally don't see any relevence...the question asked was WHAT TO DO if they were stopped not why they should be stopped or why WDW feels they should be stopped.



How can (using your words) "point out the reasons why they (disney) might feel the need to do so (ban/stop swaps)" actually have helped the original poster in her quest to find a solution if it became a policy?

Lisa may have been firm i requesting the thread stick to solutions but as I said before...She has alot involved and was quite worried. Not for herself, not for WDW, but for her fellow swappers.

I won't even go into the return of money, insight, etc.....sometimes it would just be really pleasant to open a thread that is asking for definitive help and see helpful solutions to the problem posted then to get opinions on why it is wrong/unjust/etc.. Especially when the original poster is clearing asking for HELP.

But since this has become what it has become...have fun with it. I've got packing to do, making connections with previous and post swappers for the fridge and stroller swaps, and many lil things to do so I can leave.

And I do hope LISADR does ask for this thread to be closed. The appearance of this thread is not in any way benefical to DIS nor very pleasant for a newbie to stroll upon in their first visit to DIS. Another opinion here, but I really don't think DIS wasn't to be known for what this thread has become.


Have fun, play as nicely as DIS possible, and remember it's ok to disagree, just do it tactfully.

 

[crashbb]

Yes it is a public form. But I am in a public place having a conversation with someone and you walk up and butt in, with nothing useful to add to the original conversation-YES you do have the right to do that-it is a free country-but it is also bad manners. And maybe that is the issue-not whether it is your right, but whether is it the right thing to do.

You are seriously comparing eavesdropping and budding into a private conversation (albeit in public place) to adding a comment on a public, multi-user message board?

How can (using your words) "point out the reasons why they (disney) might feel the need to do so (ban/stop swaps)" actually have helped the original poster in her quest to find a solution if it became a policy?

Knowing why Disney is stopping (or might stop) swaps is a great way to know what needs to be done to keep them going. If one knows the issues that need to be addressed then one can address them - otherwise one is spinning wheels possibly coming up with solutions for non-existent problems.

 

[bavaria]

I do feel that a lot of posters indeed do have a negative opinion toward swaps. I would mistake them for liking swaps-lol.

You know what lisadr? Even though you may be making assumptions about me and other posters, let me tell you something quite interesting...

Many many years ago (look at my join date - I was around before the great crash in fact), I purchased a very inexpensive coffeemaker (about $8 if I recall) while in Orlando (I am there quite often for work as well as holiday)

Being very concious of waste and recycling, I offered it up here to anyone who would like it ie those staying in a resort which had no coffeemaker (all moderates and values at the time, I believe) I recall offering it up on a number of threads, on a number of boards, even though back in those days there were very few boards on this website. It took many days and many offers before someone finally agreed to take it off my hands. I ended up driving to their resort to hand it over, and even included a few freebie items and a pack of coffee with the coffee maker.

In fact, I may hold the claim for starting the very first appliance swap on this website many many years ago - a coffeemaker which I did not want to leave for Lost and Found or the trash, but chose to offer it up to a stranger instead.

I have nothing inherently against sharing items.

 

[kaytieeldr]

Is their medical equipment more important than my pins? To them I'm sure it is, to me, it certainly isn't, to Disney, they have to treat each item the same.

​

Since you asked - yes, their medical equipment IS more important than your pins. Losing your pins won't kill you, and having them misplaced won't require a trip to the emergency room.

To whoever asked about getting a refund when/if the fridge is lost:

You only pay to use the fridge until it's paid for, after that, it's free.

Usually, yes - but there are a couple of swaps that charge (or charged, I don't know if those specific ones are still active) sort of a "handling" fee, for the organizer's time and continued involvement.

The appearance of this thread is not in any way benefical to DIS nor very pleasant for a newbie to stroll upon in their first visit to DIS. Another opinion here, but I really don't think DIS wasn't to be known for what this thread has become.

Is that really how you're seeing this thread? This has been just about the most polite, most lucid, least 'attacking' thread I've ever seen on the DIS in which opinions differ!!!

And here I thought the 2 threads going about sneaking over age kids into the parks for nothing were vicious

What? Where? And you're just mentioning it NOW? The links, please, maxiesmom!!!!

 

[lisadr]

I have asked a MOD to close this thread. I say why debate? It's not worth it.

If the Mod feels it is the right thing to do then this will be closed and that it that. If not I will rename this post "THE GREAT SWAP DEBATE" and abandon it. I don not want to debate swaps-I spend enough time running one.

To all best wishes, good luck, and may you Disney vacation be Magical

Very Truly Yours,

 

[sk!mom]

It seemed so simple, ask a question get an answer.

You are totally right ParkersMomma-a war zone. And for what? You have to wonder what there is to gain from making a stand against swaps??

I appreciate your support

A war zone???? Are you guys serious!?

Reflect on what that term brings to mind and then really consider if a few people disagreeing or posting what the OP considered off topic and decide if that is a huge overstatement- to me it is.

Call me crazy but I like it when a thread generates a lot of discussion.

 

[msmayor]

I have asked a MOD to close this thread. I say why debate? It's not worth it.

If the Mod feels it is the right thing to do then this will be closed and that it that. If not I will rename this post "THE GREAT SWAP DEBATE" and abandon it. I don not want to debate swaps-I spend enough time running one.

To all best wishes, good luck, and may you Disney vacation be Magical

Very Truly Yours,

I'm very sorry you view it that way, lisadr. I agree with katieeldr that this has been one of the most polite discussions I've seen despite differing opinions and thoughts. I think its wonderful that everyone is agreeing to disagree and respecting each other's viewpoints.

 

[nbodyhome]

I agree with the below statement. When I stayed in Anaheim for 2 weeks recently, I paid $82 for the Residence Inn by Marriott (a really GREAT rate). Free hot breakfast, kitchen with fridge/microwave/stove, free wireless internet, free parking.

Disneyland hotels would have been upwards of $200+ per night, no breakfast, no microwave, possibly a mini-fridge, and no free wireless or parking.

My walk to the parks took about 10 minutes.

It bothers me most that WDW doesn't have wireless - let alone free wireless. I think that will eventually happen, like it did with fridges (in mods and deluxes) and trundles at POR.

While we are REALLY off topic now....

Sadly while I agree Disney is WORLD class in Theme Parks... One of the reasons the Disney "Deluxe" hotels get three star ratings, sub par "GUEST SERVICE" when compared to other resorts charging the same prices etc. Disneys hotel service is not at all "above" others.

Most hotels hold luggage, deliver packages etc. These are BASICS not "above and beyond"

Disney actually holds itself to a lower standard in hotel management then most of the major hotel chains. It comes up consistently here. For the same price as the Fairfield Inns in the Marriott Village you can stay at the Values. A comparison of services


Internet Disney- Charge Fairfield - Free
Breakfast Disney - Charge Fairfield - Free
Selection of TV networks Disney- Very limited Fairfield -often the entire cable network
Pay per view movies Disney - No Fairfield -Yes
Refrigerator Disney- Charge Fairfield - Free
Microwave in room Disney - NA Fairfield-Free
Exterior coorridors Disney- Yes Fairfield - No
Hairdryer automatically in room Disney - No Fairfield- Yes
Reward program for staying often Disney -No Fairfield - Yes (And there is a theory on the resorts board that Disney actually "penalizes" frequent guest by NOT sending them PINS etc...)

Transport to Disney from local Fairfield Free. Transport to parks from Values Free (Granted Disney's is probably better)

Transport to hotel from airport Disney - Free Fairfield No use Mears.

Themeing Disney wins. NO contest

Service...stayed at both. Both have good basic service. Check in is generally faster at the Fairfield!

So with Disney you are paying for location and "theme" NOT for an outstanding hotel.

And the differences become MORE pronounced the higher up the Disney price points you go.

Will I stay at values... sure, but I go in with my eyes wide open. I do not believe that "just because it's Disney it's better" I travel a lot and sadly I believe it's the exact opposite. Once you get past theme, things are lacking!

Now, I don't really blame Disney. The hotels are FULL, why should they upgrade? Others do it to bring in customers. Disney has all the customers it seems to need.

 

[lntsmom]

the exchange I was in on had fridges lost constantly. Others here made pointed remarks about those of us who didn't get a receipt, etc...when, in fact, the luggage people were unwilling to offer one.

It seemed more than coincidental that the fridge for our swap was lost once and misplaced between almost every exchange. The box was discarded, the information about the next user was discarded....

To me that all added up to Disney doing it's darnest to stop swaps without declaring publicly that they wouldn't store fridge's.

They're all about the money...why should they be willing to help people save $70????

 

[CarolA]

I have asked a MOD to close this thread. I say why debate? It's not worth it.

If the Mod feels it is the right thing to do then this will be closed and that it that. If not I will rename this post "THE GREAT SWAP DEBATE" and abandon it. I don not want to debate swaps-I spend enough time running one.

To all best wishes, good luck, and may you Disney vacation be Magical

Very Truly Yours,

OK folks if she gets her way... Somebody open a new thread.
This is one of the reasons I object to allowing threads to be closed. This thread has not been a bashing negative thread, but because the OP doesn't LIKE the posts then she wants it closed?

There is NOTHING on this thread that is bad... You want bad start a thread on ANY of the following

1. Pool hopping
2. "My child is four but small, do I HAVE to buy him a ticket?"
3. "Can I put six people in my room for four at Pop?"
4. How long are refillable mugs good for?
5. Can I stay after the MK closes and just crash the MNSHHP (Or Christmas Party or Pirates and Pricesses?)


Lisa, when you start a thread you don't have to moderate it? I often just walk away from threads... it's not a personal thing, I don't know 99.9% of the people on the DIS... So I don't always agree with them? I am not inviting them to my house!!! I am just posting messages!