While staying in Anaheim, CA, for a journalism convention, a handful of staff members explored Disneyland Resort, including its Downtown Disney District, for a couple of days.

In order to immerse themselves in the city and practice some new journalism techniques, they were tasked with striking up conversations with people they met, interviewing them and then sharing their Disneyland experience with others.

This article, the first of three in “Anaheim: Scenes from the city,” details the favorite hobby of Glen Hunter, a Disney merchandise trader.

First-time buyer becomes avid collector

As crowds meander through the streets and shops of the Downtown Disney District, a cluster of collectors is stationed outside of D Street, an avenue home to shops selling vintage Disney clothing and merchandise.

In the midst of adult traders, young Vinylmation collector Glen Hunter confidently interacts with fellow enthusiasts to exhibit his set of figurines.

With the release of a new line of Muppet Vinylmations, Hunter remains outside to trade after designer Monty Maldovan had signed his newest additions. He boldly pursues exchanges with adults, though he is not yet in his teen years.

The Mickey Mouse-shaped figurines, decorated as Disneyland characters, give Hunter a fresh craze to take interest in after years of acquiring collectables from such franchises as Pok