So for as long as we have been staying club level at the Polynesian there has been many special people we have met that work there and make our stay special. Many have moved on or retired but some have always been there. I know our family and others really feel like they are family and we treat them like they are. In return they make our visit to the resort even more special. I know I can speak for many when I say part of the vacation experience is being able to return and see those special cast members. Well as they say “The time has come to say good bye” or as I would rather say ” Until we meet again.”
Dick Magno (better known as Chef Dick) at the Polynesian will be retiring in July 2010. We all know him for his delicious creations and sculpted fruits and vegetables in the lounge of the Hawaii longhouse. We also know his as the person who always has a smile and an aloha for us when we enter the lounge. Not having him there will be a loss for us all when we visit the resort. Many people even plan their vacation dates when he is going to be there.
When he told me he was retiring I was happy for him and sad for all of us but I knew I needed to write up something for my web pages so I asked him a few questions and you can read and enjoy his answers. There were some surprises for me when I read them.
Where did you grow up?
Born in the Philippines & grew up there..Joined the US Navy almost 18 years old spending 20 years 
of my life. Retired from the service at age 38. After retirement, moved to Orlando 1989 to manage my daughter Deedee (a mouseketeer) on the New Mickey Mouse Club then later the singing group called ” The Party ” handpicked from the Mickey Mouse Club. They were opening group for New Kids on the Block, Vanilla Ice, to name a few but didn’t make it big due to poor promotion from Hollywood Records (Disney Owned). Later, she played the lead role on Broadways “Miss Saigon” for 6 years until it closed.
When did you start working for Disney?
Started working for Disney 1993 to 1996..started at Luau, then opened All Stars Sports resort, then Fort Wilderness. Left the company 1996 to try my luck in Las Vegas. Didn’t have good offers.
Returned to Disney 1997..did Demo presentation for the Food & Wine Festival then went to Ohana doing catering services. When Hawaii opened after renovation, I took the job as concierge chef & the rest is history.
What made you want to cook?
I was a chef in the navy not by choice. I always wanted to be a cop. Don’t know why I ended cooking. I guess the food was very good & I wanted to be close to where the food is.
What is the best day that comes to mind at the Polynesian for you?
The best day that comes to mind for me is seeing all those beautiful smiles & bonding with all the guest. I always wanted to make their stay at the Poly something to remember & it comes from the heart.
How do you feel about the fact that people schedule their vacation around when you are going to be there so they can see you?
I feel very special & blessed when guest schedule their vacation when I’m around. I feel like I’m a part of their Ohana.I will certainly miss all those hugs specially the little ones.
What are your plans for retirement?
I’ll do a lot of traveling, fishing, chillin..I still have a lot to do at my house, painting, repairs, cleaning..etc etc
Will you go visit the new resort opening in Oahu?
I will surely visit the new resort opening in Oahu.
Polynesian guests will still have a few months to enjoy the chef’s creations and welcoming smile. Make sure to stop and tell him Aloha if you are in the lounge.
We will miss you Chef Dick. Aloha and until we meet again….
