Who Me?

My name is Doug Rhoades. I was born in Compton, California, in 1953. My family moved to northern California in 1962. During my last year of high school, and several years beyond, I was a disc jockey at several small radio stations. In 1976, I began my "first career" with the Lake County Sheriff's Department, where I was a deputy for seven years, and a sergeant for 14.

In 1989 it was time to finish my formal education, and I returned to school at California State University at Sonoma, located in Rohnert Park, California. I received a BA in Liberal Studies in 1992. That same year, I entered law school at Empire College School of Law in Santa Rosa, Caliornia. I graduated cum laude in May of 1996, sat for the state bar examination in July, and passed that examination. On December 6, 1996, I was sworn-in as an attorney admitted to practice before all state courts in California, and on December 10 was admitted to practice before the Federal Court.

Besides enjoying Disneyland on a regular basis (as regular as vacation schedules and pocketbook will allow) I also collect Mickey Mouse figurines. My collection totals about 100 now, made of brass, pewter, glass, ceramic, porcelain, wood, resin, gold, silver and even plastic. The largest stands about 14", and the smallest is less than 1/2" high, and made of bronze.

Going to Disneyland was and is something of a ritual for me.  I always visit Ron at Refreshment Corner when he's there, just to listen and chat for a moment.  I always ride Pirates, even if it's the only thing I do.  I noticed recently that every time I enter the park, I go in the east undercrossing (nearest the Bank) and always exit through the west undercrossing (nearest City Hall).  Why?  I have no idea. Similarly, I never cross through the castle for the first time on any trip from the inside to the outside.  I know, there's a very fine line between an enjoyment and an obsession.  But here's some photos that might help explain (and remember, I'm in my 50's now!).  That's me in front of the Main Street Bank, which was still Bank of America in 1966 when that photo was taken.  On the same trip, that's me (same highway-worker orange shirt) on the long lost and somewhat infamous Flying Saucers.  That's my dad right next to me.

I enjoy music of most types (I'm sorry, I don't understand Rap: I know, it's my failing) with a large collection of CD's, mostly AC (Adult Contemporary in radio jargon) soundtracks and original cast albums, and classical/new age.

I've always loved music. Recently, I was honored to be the guest conductor of the local high school orchestra. It was wonderful, and loads of fun. The picture at lower left is at the conclusion of the concert. The image on the lower right is of me and Mickey at Disneyland about 1989 B.C. (Before Chinhair).

As Lily Tomlin observed, "I knew I wanted to be somebody when I grew up, only now I realize I should have been more specific."

Why am I such a Disneyland enthusiast?

If you'd like to know more about my law practice, please visit www.lakelaw.net. This is not a direct link, so you'll need to enter the address when you exit this site, if you wish to visit.  And I write. Not always well, not always for everyone. But for a sampling of my stories and poetry, please click on this link.

Comments? Send to doug@dougsdisneyland.com.

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