(January 21, 2004) -- The Happiest Place On Earth welcomed 20 Clark seniors on Saturday, Nov. 13. The trip was originally devised as a gift to the planners of last year’s junior prom, but when attendance fell through, the even was opened to all seniors. Though the last minute announcement failed to help with attendance problems, the trip went off without a hitch.

“It was a good day to get away, but it was really crowded,” said senior Van Kochkarian. The holidays are generally a peak visiting time for the Disneyland Resort. This trip offered no exception, as Disney reported record crowds for that day and had to shut down their gates at 3 p.m.

Despite the crowds, some found enjoyment in the most unlikely of places. “The trip down to Disneyland was great fun,” said math teacher Ellen Armitstead. “Everyone was talking, some singing, just getting along and bonding well.”

The theme of friendship was prevalent throughout the day. Senior Anet Badali thought the trip was a good opportunity to spend time with people she wouldn’t normally have the chance to spend time with. “When we ate we all had the chance to gather round and reflect on our day,” Badali added. “We all had a chance to come together.”

One reason for the crowds is Disneyland’s massive holiday transformation. “All the decorations were beautiful,” said senior Ana Khachatrian. “The lines were long but hardly noticeable—there was always something to look at or friends to spend time with.”

While seniors currently have no plan to attend Disneyland again, Armitstead said she would love to make another voyage to the Happiest Place On Earth. “I’ll take anyone who will come and we’ll have a great time,” she said.