December 13, 2008 was the last Torch Lighting Ceremony and it was sad for guests and staff to see it go. It did go out in style with Kaleo playing the drums and singing. Kaleo has been there for as long as I can remember and I remember him from ‘Ohana years ago. Recently you could see him playing in the Tambu Lounge. I found that having that quality of entertainment in the lounge was a great addition to the resort. I could sit there for hours and listen. I would otherwise not spend that much time in the lounge. Many others have said that they spend more time there because of the music and usually order more drinks and appetizers. I would be willing to bet the increased revenue from Kaleo playing there more than paid for his salary. Well the lounge and resort will not be the same. As of the 13th with the entertainment budget cut, Kaleo played his last day at the resort.
The Polynesian is a beautiful resort and it will always have a special place in my heart but after some of the things I have seen go on (that most would not even know about) I have been losing the drive to keep promoting this resort. They have lost the willingness to go above and beyond the other resorts like they use to. The quality has improved in many areas but lost in some. Losing key people means the resort loses its heart and losing Kaleo is losing a big piece of that heart.
Some others were there on the 13th and put together some nice memories. Jeff Lang that makes some great DVDs with video and photos around Disney World took some photos and video taped the ceremony. You can see that at his site.
Denise from MouseSteps.com also got some great photos.
You can check in and see what Kaleo is up to on his site. Hopefully he will ad more soon.
