Do You Remember: The Character Driven Epcot Rope Drop?

Do you remember when you were allowed to enter Epcot at about 8:45am, and then held until 9:00am, when Mickey Mouse and the gang would come out and greet the crowd?

Now entry begins at 8:45am, but instead of being stopped, you proceed directly to your destination. It certainly seems smoother, but lacks the charm of these greetings.

Which do you prefer?