Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
April 12, 2006
Copyright © 1999 - 2006 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
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Hi Everyone!
In this blog...
* The latest news from around the "World" - including a new
Jedi Academy training attraction at MGM and two new Nemo
related attractions coming to Animal Kingdom and Epcot!
* Karen writes about buying someone else's tickets.
* Beth, our travel agent, was on hand for the premiere of
Expedition Everest and filed this report.
=================================================
We continuously update our information and you can find
these current specials in our Addenda:
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Three New Ways to win...
A 6-night trip for four to Orlando!
A 6-night trip for four to Walt Disney World!
A 2007 Mustang Coupe!
--------------------------------
These specials are still in effect:
* A new deal for late summer! Includes FREE dining plan! A
family of four (2 adults and 2 children 3-9) will save
almost $100.00 per day on meals! Over $150.00 if your kids
are older!
* Save up to $100.00 per night at the Disney World resorts
this spring! Reserve by 06/03/06.
* Deluxe resorts on Disney property as low as $149 per room,
per night in August and September, 2006!
--------------------------------
We've added three new fun activities to our members' Disney
Goodies section for Buzz Lightyear, Narnia, and Magic
Kingdom fans!
--------------------------------
VEGAS
Experience the world’s largest four-star resort from only
$159 per night when you book for two nights! Hurry! You must
book before April 18, 2006.
Resort & Casino Special: $99 per night! Promotion Runs April
12, 2006 - June 1, 2006. Includes $25 Dining Credit (per
stay), 2 for 1 spa admission, and 15% off Spa Services. Book
by April 30, 2006.
--------------------------------
If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here.
Members can use the following URLs to log in:
Lifetime Deluxe Member
Lifetime Basic Member
Deluxe Member
Basic Member
=================================================
NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Australians Beware!
"QUEENSLANDERS have been warned about a US holiday scam
which pressures victims to hand over their credit card
details in exchange for a cheap but non-existent trip to
Disney World... They claim to be representing the Summer Bay
Holiday Resort and use high-pressure tactics to get credit
card details before leaving the unsuspecting victims with no
money and no holiday." (Source: news.com.au, 04/10/06)
--------------------------------
"There's a new thrill ride at Walt Disney World that
visitors will want to avoid: one in which a police car
pursues you. At Disney's request, Orange County deputy
sheriffs have been hitting the streets there hard, sometimes
writing dozens of traffic tickets a day for violations
ranging from speeding to loud stereos, a Sentinel analysis
has found." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/-8/06)
--------------------------------
"Walt Disney World is testing a new Jedi Academy training
attraction mixing face characters and young visitors
outdoors at Disney-MGM Studios. On select days, several
times a day, actors depicting Star Wars characters invite up
to a dozen children to take part in Jedi training exercises
in the Star Tours ride." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/10/06)
--------------------------------
Alamo Rent A Car, Disney's official rental car company, now
has an office in Downtown Disney.
--------------------------------
"Scientists from Conservation International (CI) and
Disney's Animal Kingdom found a vast array of exotic
wildlife -- including plant and animal species previously
unknown to science -- during a two-month expedition to
little-known regions in the shadow of Mount Everest. The
discoveries and observations announced today, coincident
with opening of the Expedition Everest attraction at Walt
Disney World Resort, included:
* a giant hornet so deadly, locals call it the 'Yak Killer';
* a beetle that buries birds and small rodents in
subterranean crypts to feed its offspring;
* an endangered jumping mouse;
* and several new species of amphibians, insects and ants."
(Source: Press Release, 04/07/06)
--------------------------------
Finding Nemo -- The Musical to open at Animal Kingdom
"The undersea world that charmed audiences around the world
in the Disney presentation of the Pixar Animation Studios
smash-hit film 'Finding Nemo' will come to life in an all-
new musical stage show debuting at Disney's Animal Kingdom
in late 2006... The show represents the first time Disney
has taken a non-musical animated feature and transformed it
into an original musical production. It will be presented in
the newly enclosed Theater in the Wild."
(Source: Press Release, 04/07/06)
Here's another article.
--------------------------------
"The Seas with Nemo & Friends" to open at Epcot's Living
Seas Pavilion Fall 2006
"Featuring technology that for all appearances has the stars
of "Finding Nemo" swimming amid the live marine life of the
huge aquarium in The Living Seas pavilion, the attraction is
an adventure that picks up where the motion picture left
off." (Source: Press Release, 04/07/06)
--------------------------------
Expedition Everest to be featured in three specials on the
Discovery Networks:
* Expedition Everest: Journey to Sacred Lands (8 PM Sunday
on Travel Channel)
* Building a Thrill Ride: Expedition Everest (9 PM Monday on
Science Channel and 8 PM Wednesday on Discovery Channel)
* Corwin's Quest: Realm of the Yeti (8 PM April 15 on Animal
Planet) (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/03/06)
--------------------------------
Pooh got his own Hollywood Walk of Fame Star April 11, 2006.
--------------------------------
Tom Joyner Family Reunion(R) will take place at Walt Disney
World August 31 - September 5, 2006.
"For the third year, Allstate returns as the title sponsor at
an event that will host nearly 10,000 people for a weekend
of concerts, comedy, a health and business expo and access
to the world-renowned Walt Disney World. The event, hosted
by Tom Joyner, whose Tom Joyner Morning Show reaches more
than eight million radio listeners, also will feature
performances by the veteran comedian Sinbad and blockbuster
newcomers Ne-Yo and Chris Brown."
(Source: Press Release, 04/06/06)
--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
New Nightly Show: Universal 360: A Cinesphere Spectacular
"The centerpiece of the Universal Studios show will be four
huge spheres floating on barges spaced in the park's central
lagoon. The three-story globes will essentially be 360-
degree screens for Universal Pictures' most memorable movie
scenes. The film clips will be choreographed to movie-theme
music playing from a new 300-speaker sound system and
accompanied by fireworks and lasers."
Also coming:
* The High In The Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride is for small
children and opens June 1 at IOA.
* The Red Coconut - with its 1970s decor, live
entertainment, and dancing - is aimed at 20-40-year olds and
is scheduled to join the clubs at CityWalk the end of May.
* The Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. restaurant will accommodate 400
and is scheduled to open July 1 at CityWalk's entrance.
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/12/06)
--------------------------------
"Follow Me: The Road to Resurrection" is a celebration of
Easter at The Holy Land Experience (Interstate 4 and Conroy
Road) seen through special musical dramas, stirring
vignettes and historical presentations that bring Jesus'
ministry to life." Now through April 15.
(Source: Official Website)
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disneyland Resort Calendar
=================================================
DISNEYLAND PARIS
"Disneyland Paris in France will launch its newest
attraction, Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast, this weekend (8
April). The interactive dark ride features a number of two-
seater space cruisers fitted with dual laser pistols which
riders can use to shoot targets and collect points... As
part of the investment programme, Walt Disney Studios Park
will see the opening of Toon Studios in 2007 and the Tower
of Terror - a white-knuckle ride in a mysterious Hollywood
hotel - in 2008." (Source: worldleisurejobs.com, 04/05/06)
=================================================
HONG KONG DISNEYLAND
"More than 30 people employed at the park have suffered
muscle, neck and waist problems from working long hours and
wearing Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and other costumes, said
Elaine Hui of the Hong Kong Disneyland Cast Members' Union.
But Disneyland doesn't grant paid leave because Hong Kong
law doesn't recognize the problems as being caused by an
occupational hazard, Hui said." (Source: AssociatedPress, 04/10/06)
=================================================
NOTE: Links to newspaper articles change quickly and without
notice. If you receive a "File Not Found" error message,
search the newspaper's archives for the story. Certain
newspapers require a free registration to view their
articles online. If web addresses are broken into more than
one line, copy and paste all lines.
=================================================
Karen writes:
"John,
Hi. I am a member of the basic affordable disney. I have a
friend who wants to sell me her left over days on her
ticket. She said that even though my finger prints will
obviously not match hers that Disney will just have me sign
the ticket and I will be able to use it. Have you heard
anything about this? She supposedly heard this from someone
who works at Disney. I would hate to waste the money but on
the other hand if it is true then I could save some money.
Thanks for any info."
Disney's rule is that their tickets are non-transferable and
they enforce it vigorously.
Karen adds:
"I have a child ticket that we were unable to use when our
vacation was canceled last year. My son has since turned 10
and would require an adult ticket. Would I be able to
upgrade at the gates to an adult so that I will not lose the
money that I paid for this ticket?"
Yes, you can upgrade the ticket.
=================================================
Beth, our travel agent, was on hand for the premiere of
Expedition Everest. We published the following report on our
blog April 7. Here it is again if you missed it:
"There sure were a lot of puffy eyes at Boma this morning
during breakfast! That's because the big press/industry
event to celebrate the grand opening of Expedition Everest
was held last night at Animal Kingdom. But I'm getting ahead
of myself. Let me start with check-in.
My 8-year-old daughter and I arrived (after having lunch at
Trail's End in Ft. Wilderness) around 2:00 yesterday
(Thursday). Check-in at the front desk was uneventful and
nothing out of the ordinary. We headed to our room and found
that we had a great location on the fourth floor overlooking
the central savannah. We quickly unpacked and headed
upstairs to the event hospitality suite. This was set up in
the Vice Presidential suite on the 5th floor. Wow! Now
THAT's a hotel room! Anyway, after signing in, I was given
two complimentary 4-day hoppers with 4 water park +
admissions. (The tickets expire in a few days and I
apparently can't pay to make them not expire.) I also
received a welcome gift bag.
There was a big tray of assorted huge cookies and a nice
beverage selection, so we each grabbed a cookie and a soda
and headed back to the room to check out the contents of the
gift bag. It was an Expedition Everest lunch bag covered on
one side with white fur and the EE logo. Pretty cool. Inside
we found two beverages from the Coke-Cola Co that we didn't
even know existed. There was a t-shirt, a VERY nice watch,
several light-up key chains and such, a special EE edition
box of Nestle Snowcaps candy, a pack of Sharpie markers, and
a compass/clock/clip from the Discovery Channel.
After cramming everything back in the bag, we changed into
swimsuits for a quick jaunt to the hotel pool. Refreshing,
as always! Then we ran back to the room to change, and I
took my daughter to Simba's Clubhouse. (This is AKL's
childcare facility.) I had to help her select what she
wanted for dinner from a menu, sign her in, and sign for a
beeper. The staff was very friendly, and my daughter ran off
with them without looking back.
Then off to the bus for me. They had special buses outside
for us that carried us over to a backstage entrance at
Animal Kingdom. The park was closed by then, so it was a
little odd to be the only ones in sight as we headed into
the industry cocktail party at the Tusker House. The main
room had three tables of food - including one with a
mountain of shrimp (yum!) - and some high tables... the kind
you stand at while you eat. The second room had a bar (open
bar service all evening with beer, wine, and mixed drinks)
and many tables with chairs. Each table had two types of
center pieces. One was an ice sculpture with the EE logo
etched into the center of it, and the other was a sculpture
of a mountain with white carnations used to simulate the
snow-capped peaks.
Around 7:00 we were escorted around the park to the Asia
section where we had to pass through a thick cloud of (dry-
ice) "smoke" and were subsequently greeted with street
performers and a lineup of people draping colorful scarves
around our necks. Crossing into the event area there were
two directions to go, but both offered table after table of
buffet items and countless bars serving exotic drinks like
mocha martinis and mango cosmopolitans. (Plenty of beer,
wine, soda, coffee, etc., too.) There were several bands
playing, street performers all over the place, and of course
- Expedition Everest which was available to ride all evening
with no lines to wait in! (And no, I haven't yet worked up
the nerve to ride. Apparently I didn't try enough of the
cocktails.)
We all got very cool lanyards with a 'pass' for the evening.
One side was sort of an 'admit one' ticket, while the other
side was a map of where the food, entertainment stages, open
attractions, and evening finale were located. Nice touch.
Another fun touch were the bags of white cotton candy 'snow
balls used as decoration. My daughter wasn't happy that she
couldn't attend the event with me, but one of those 'snow
balls' earned me her forgiveness pretty quickly. The theme
of the evening was 'fire and ice.' The ice carvings,
wandering people in parkas, and snow balls (plus a looming
Everest) achieved the snow part, while the finale on the
lagoon - a dramatic achievement in fireworks and flames -
accomplished the fire part nicely. Other more subtle
reminders of both - like lanterns on all the dining tables -
furthered the theme.
OK, on to the main event. After breakfast this morning we
were taken by buses to the main entrance of Animal Kingdom
and led by guide through separate bag-check lines, and then
around the park and into the roped off area. (Expedition
Everest doesn't open to the general public until 2PM today.)
We were given small bottles of cold water, a Disney Wildlife
Conservation Fund button, and a battery-operated
flashlight/fan (on carabiner clip) as we entered. Not sure
how I managed this, but I ended up right in front of the
stage with a clear view of the podium.
Jay Rasulo, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, was
master of ceremonies. He started by announcing that last
night five $100,000 checks were presented by the Disney
Wildlife Conservation fund to some very special people:
actors John Cleese and Isabella Rossellini, Jane Goodall,
and two others including a Nobel Peace Prize winner and
another person (sorry - had a hard time taking notes!), all
of whom are very active in conservation efforts. Each of
these people was on hand (except Jane who was here last
night, but had a representative today). We were also
introduced to the sons of the first people to climb Mt.
Everest and a man from the Discovery Channel who talked
about the many shows that will be airing in conjunction with
the opening of EE. I forget how many new species of
creatures were discovered during the research for this
attraction, but it was a bunch. Can't wait to see these
shows.
Anyway, we then moved over to the front of the attraction
where Disney's president and CEO, Bob Iger, did a brief
introduction, and then Olympic gold medalist Hannah Teeter
officially cut the ribbon - at which point amidst a great
deal of 'smoke' the first train came flying down the side of
the mountain with the cast of Disney's hit made-for-TV movie
High School Musical aboard. Afterwards, guides were
available to take people on tours of the park. I, of course,
ran back to the bus and to the hotel to file this report!
So it's officially open! I'm happy to say that my daughter
enjoyed her time this morning with the sitter I hired from
Kid's Nite Out, and we're now officially done with our grand
opening events. I'm going to head up to the suite to grab a
few sodas for our frig, and then we'll head out to a park.
It's a gorgeous day, so I'm thinking maybe Typhoon Lagoon
for a bit....
Well, that's all for now. Disney sure knows how to throw a
party!"
Beth sent us this final note:
"We didn't set the alarm Friday night, but still managed to
wake up fairly early and make good use of the morning hours.
We headed out of our room about 8:15 and had just a short
wait before the Epcot bus came. We quickly cleared the 'bag
check' line. Here's a hint: Before the turnstyles open, the
lines start to really grow, but if you pass through the bag
check and head to the right, just excusing yourself through
those lines, we found the ones furthest to the right to be
substantially shorter, so when they DID open we got through
pretty fast and could head straight up to the right of
Spaceship Earth and over to the rope line at Innoventions
West. It's important to be there because, after doing the
countdown and dropping the rope, you're as close as you can
get to The Land pavilion [where Soarin' is located].
We did our best speed walking up the incline along with the
rest of the herd. I seriously felt as if I was getting a
first-hand taste of the Disney marathon! Down the stairs,
across the pavilion, and to the Fast Pass machines we went,
grabbing two of the first ones issued for the day (return
time of 9:45-10:45). Then we ran around and got in line and
had only a 15 minute wait before we got to ride. After
exiting, we went across to the Living with the Land boats -
which can have a really long wait time later in the day -
and quickly found ourselves aboard the cruise through
hydroponic gardens and such to see what they're growing
these days. They're doing some amazing things with pumpkins
and tomatoes!
Then we had a yummy breakfast from the The Land's Sunshine
Seasons dining area. A large pastry and large muffin and
two drinks were under $7 with tax, so it's a bargain. Then
back to Soarin' to ride for a second time using our Fast
Passes. We then met up with some friends from Naples to
ride Spaceship Earth, and then back to the hotel to put on
bathing suites.
We arrived at Typhoon Lagoon in time for lunch, and even
found two chairs! This was our first time there so I didn't
know what to expect really. I learned that forgetting your
towels is a costly mistake ($1 per towel to rent them), that
no one bugs your stuff when you're not around (I left my
park tickets and room keys with charge abilities in my pants
pocket, but I wouldn't recommend that), and that grilled
cheese pretzels are a great thing for lunch.
I also learned that while TL is the better of the two water
parks (in my opinion) for young children or those that don't
swim well, there still isn't that much to do. My daughter
was too big for the tike areas, and two timid for the heavy-
duty slides. Even a sturdy 8-year-old can EASILY be knocked
over by the powerful wave action in the wave pool. (We sat
on a bench along the edge and still got smacked backwards
pretty hard.) Castaway Creek, the slow-moving river of
inner tubes that meanders around the park, is really
tranquil and suitable even for most younger children and
non-swimmers given the shallow water (about 3'), and during
times when everything thing else has long wait times, it
seems very easy to grab a few empty tubes floating fast.
The park is really pretty, and a nice way to relax. Don't
forget the sunscreen!
We headed back about 4:00, changed clothes, and caught a bus
to MGM and then transferred to a boat to the Yacht & Beach
clubs to eat at one of my favorite spots, Beaches & Cream.
Two thumbs up on the Caesar salad with shrimp. The side of
onion rings was plenty to share. My daughter had a grilled
chicken sandwich with fresh fruit, and then we each chose a
dessert. My 'No Way Jose' was a peanut butter and fudge
delight, while Emily's Mud Slide produced huge smiles from a
very tired child. Warning, though... we had enough food for
four, and didn't come anywhere close to finishing. What's
more, we were using dining vouchers provided by Disney as
part of the invitation to this special weekend, but without
them the meal would have run us about $54 with tax and
gratuity. That's for a chicken sandwich and a salad, two
sides, two drinks, and two sundaes. Yet another place where
the dining plan comes in handy - especially if it's free!
Then we rode the bus over to Downtown Disney for some quick
shopping before heading back to the hotel. We both slept
like rocks, and I barely noticed the noisy thunderstorm that
started around 3:30 in the morning. I'd had every intention
of stopping in a park for a few hours before heading home,
but frankly, my feet were pretty tired and that three-and-a-
half hours of driving ahead of me would have put a real
damper on things, so we just did a quick stop in the
giftshop and headed out. Final hint: when in a giftshop ask
if there's anything on sale. We picked up a really nice
tote bag that had been $30 for just $10, and we got a
gorgeous beach towel that had been $20 for half off.
That's all for now. I have a bunch of emails to catch up
with, so I'll be perched at the computer for the next few
days (trying not to let the pixie dust wear off too
quickly). A great trip from start to finish. Can't wait
until they invite me to another special event!!! :-)"
=================================================
Pixar/Disney Collectible
Pixar stock certificates are becoming valuable as a
collector's item due to Disney's recent acquisition of the
company. The certificates are very colorful and are
decorated with pictures of Woody and Buzz Lightyear from
"Toy Story." Now comes with Free Shipping till 04/15/06. Use
code: freeship. Pixar disappears April 23. Get yourcollectible stock certificate here!
=================================================
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Don't Leave Home Without It!
Universal offers special deals to Universal Entertainment
MasterCard cardholders. Apply now and receive a movie ticket
with your first purchase! For more details, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Disney Books
Disney and other new books 50-90% off the list price.
Hundreds of books under $1.00! Plus! Over 700 videos have
been marked down to $1.99! To check out the bargains, click
here.
--------------------------------
Got Coupons?
With the Orlando Entertainment Book, you can save big on
travel, groceries, shopping, movie tickets, and more!
Coupons in the 2006 book are valid through 11/01/06. Save at
hotels and restaurants near Walt Disney World, on car
rental, airfare, admission to Universal Orlando, SeaWorld
Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa! For details, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Accommodations
Get the guaranteed lowest prices at the Downtown Disney
Resorts as well as at hotels, condos and vacation rentals
outside Disney property. Plus! Receive up to a $100.00 rebate! For hotels, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Car Rental
Just enter in your travel dates, select the kind of car you
want, and receive a list of car rental prices at over 12
companies starting with the cheapest price! Click here.
Cheryl writes: "I saved over $200.00 on my mini van rental!!!"
--------------------------------
Affordable Airfare
This service delivers as many as 230 flight options in a
single search - more options than any other travel site.
It's possible to save as much as 80%! To compare prices, click here.
--------------------------------
Affordable Luggage
Save up to 60% on Luggage, Backpacks, and more! Donna and I
bought a beautiful 5-piece set of Samsonite luggage for our
daughter for Christmas for $144! Click here.
--------------------------------
Own a piece of the Magic Kingdom
Disney framed stock certificates are works of art. They
feature Walt Disney and the Disney characters. Unlike stock
brokers that require you to purchase several shares of
stock, OneShare sells one share of stock and mails you the
certificate. You can frame the stock certificate yourself or
OneShare will frame if for you at a nominal cost. Click here.
=============================================
See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
=============================================
Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee the accuracy of information
contained in THE DISNEY NEWS. Always check to be sure. The
views and opinions expressed by others in THE DISNEY NEWS do
not necessarily reflect the views of AffordableDisney.Com.
=============================================
April 12, 2006
Copyright © 1999 - 2006 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
To subscribe to Affordable Disney's blog, click the following
icon:
Or copy and paste the following URL into your RSS Reader:
http://affordabledisney.blogspot.com/atom.xml
: My Yahoo! users can instantly add our blogcontent to My Yahoo! Add My Yahoo!
: You can also subscribe to our blog at MSN! Add to My MSN!
=================================================
Hi Everyone!
In this blog...
* The latest news from around the "World" - including a new
Jedi Academy training attraction at MGM and two new Nemo
related attractions coming to Animal Kingdom and Epcot!
* Karen writes about buying someone else's tickets.
* Beth, our travel agent, was on hand for the premiere of
Expedition Everest and filed this report.
=================================================
We continuously update our information and you can find
these current specials in our Addenda:
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Three New Ways to win...
A 6-night trip for four to Orlando!
A 6-night trip for four to Walt Disney World!
A 2007 Mustang Coupe!
--------------------------------
These specials are still in effect:
* A new deal for late summer! Includes FREE dining plan! A
family of four (2 adults and 2 children 3-9) will save
almost $100.00 per day on meals! Over $150.00 if your kids
are older!
* Save up to $100.00 per night at the Disney World resorts
this spring! Reserve by 06/03/06.
* Deluxe resorts on Disney property as low as $149 per room,
per night in August and September, 2006!
--------------------------------
We've added three new fun activities to our members' Disney
Goodies section for Buzz Lightyear, Narnia, and Magic
Kingdom fans!
--------------------------------
VEGAS
Experience the world’s largest four-star resort from only
$159 per night when you book for two nights! Hurry! You must
book before April 18, 2006.
Resort & Casino Special: $99 per night! Promotion Runs April
12, 2006 - June 1, 2006. Includes $25 Dining Credit (per
stay), 2 for 1 spa admission, and 15% off Spa Services. Book
by April 30, 2006.
--------------------------------
If you are not a member, you can join our Disney family here.
Members can use the following URLs to log in:
Lifetime Deluxe Member
Lifetime Basic Member
Deluxe Member
Basic Member
=================================================
NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Australians Beware!
"QUEENSLANDERS have been warned about a US holiday scam
which pressures victims to hand over their credit card
details in exchange for a cheap but non-existent trip to
Disney World... They claim to be representing the Summer Bay
Holiday Resort and use high-pressure tactics to get credit
card details before leaving the unsuspecting victims with no
money and no holiday." (Source: news.com.au, 04/10/06)
--------------------------------
"There's a new thrill ride at Walt Disney World that
visitors will want to avoid: one in which a police car
pursues you. At Disney's request, Orange County deputy
sheriffs have been hitting the streets there hard, sometimes
writing dozens of traffic tickets a day for violations
ranging from speeding to loud stereos, a Sentinel analysis
has found." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/-8/06)
--------------------------------
"Walt Disney World is testing a new Jedi Academy training
attraction mixing face characters and young visitors
outdoors at Disney-MGM Studios. On select days, several
times a day, actors depicting Star Wars characters invite up
to a dozen children to take part in Jedi training exercises
in the Star Tours ride." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/10/06)
--------------------------------
Alamo Rent A Car, Disney's official rental car company, now
has an office in Downtown Disney.
--------------------------------
"Scientists from Conservation International (CI) and
Disney's Animal Kingdom found a vast array of exotic
wildlife -- including plant and animal species previously
unknown to science -- during a two-month expedition to
little-known regions in the shadow of Mount Everest. The
discoveries and observations announced today, coincident
with opening of the Expedition Everest attraction at Walt
Disney World Resort, included:
* a giant hornet so deadly, locals call it the 'Yak Killer';
* a beetle that buries birds and small rodents in
subterranean crypts to feed its offspring;
* an endangered jumping mouse;
* and several new species of amphibians, insects and ants."
(Source: Press Release, 04/07/06)
--------------------------------
Finding Nemo -- The Musical to open at Animal Kingdom
"The undersea world that charmed audiences around the world
in the Disney presentation of the Pixar Animation Studios
smash-hit film 'Finding Nemo' will come to life in an all-
new musical stage show debuting at Disney's Animal Kingdom
in late 2006... The show represents the first time Disney
has taken a non-musical animated feature and transformed it
into an original musical production. It will be presented in
the newly enclosed Theater in the Wild."
(Source: Press Release, 04/07/06)
Here's another article.
--------------------------------
"The Seas with Nemo & Friends" to open at Epcot's Living
Seas Pavilion Fall 2006
"Featuring technology that for all appearances has the stars
of "Finding Nemo" swimming amid the live marine life of the
huge aquarium in The Living Seas pavilion, the attraction is
an adventure that picks up where the motion picture left
off." (Source: Press Release, 04/07/06)
--------------------------------
Expedition Everest to be featured in three specials on the
Discovery Networks:
* Expedition Everest: Journey to Sacred Lands (8 PM Sunday
on Travel Channel)
* Building a Thrill Ride: Expedition Everest (9 PM Monday on
Science Channel and 8 PM Wednesday on Discovery Channel)
* Corwin's Quest: Realm of the Yeti (8 PM April 15 on Animal
Planet) (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/03/06)
--------------------------------
Pooh got his own Hollywood Walk of Fame Star April 11, 2006.
--------------------------------
Tom Joyner Family Reunion(R) will take place at Walt Disney
World August 31 - September 5, 2006.
"For the third year, Allstate returns as the title sponsor at
an event that will host nearly 10,000 people for a weekend
of concerts, comedy, a health and business expo and access
to the world-renowned Walt Disney World. The event, hosted
by Tom Joyner, whose Tom Joyner Morning Show reaches more
than eight million radio listeners, also will feature
performances by the veteran comedian Sinbad and blockbuster
newcomers Ne-Yo and Chris Brown."
(Source: Press Release, 04/06/06)
--------------------------------
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
New Nightly Show: Universal 360: A Cinesphere Spectacular
"The centerpiece of the Universal Studios show will be four
huge spheres floating on barges spaced in the park's central
lagoon. The three-story globes will essentially be 360-
degree screens for Universal Pictures' most memorable movie
scenes. The film clips will be choreographed to movie-theme
music playing from a new 300-speaker sound system and
accompanied by fireworks and lasers."
Also coming:
* The High In The Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride is for small
children and opens June 1 at IOA.
* The Red Coconut - with its 1970s decor, live
entertainment, and dancing - is aimed at 20-40-year olds and
is scheduled to join the clubs at CityWalk the end of May.
* The Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. restaurant will accommodate 400
and is scheduled to open July 1 at CityWalk's entrance.
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 04/12/06)
--------------------------------
"Follow Me: The Road to Resurrection" is a celebration of
Easter at The Holy Land Experience (Interstate 4 and Conroy
Road) seen through special musical dramas, stirring
vignettes and historical presentations that bring Jesus'
ministry to life." Now through April 15.
(Source: Official Website)
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disneyland Resort Calendar
=================================================
DISNEYLAND PARIS
"Disneyland Paris in France will launch its newest
attraction, Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast, this weekend (8
April). The interactive dark ride features a number of two-
seater space cruisers fitted with dual laser pistols which
riders can use to shoot targets and collect points... As
part of the investment programme, Walt Disney Studios Park
will see the opening of Toon Studios in 2007 and the Tower
of Terror - a white-knuckle ride in a mysterious Hollywood
hotel - in 2008." (Source: worldleisurejobs.com, 04/05/06)
=================================================
HONG KONG DISNEYLAND
"More than 30 people employed at the park have suffered
muscle, neck and waist problems from working long hours and
wearing Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and other costumes, said
Elaine Hui of the Hong Kong Disneyland Cast Members' Union.
But Disneyland doesn't grant paid leave because Hong Kong
law doesn't recognize the problems as being caused by an
occupational hazard, Hui said." (Source: AssociatedPress, 04/10/06)
=================================================
NOTE: Links to newspaper articles change quickly and without
notice. If you receive a "File Not Found" error message,
search the newspaper's archives for the story. Certain
newspapers require a free registration to view their
articles online. If web addresses are broken into more than
one line, copy and paste all lines.
=================================================
Karen writes:
"John,
Hi. I am a member of the basic affordable disney. I have a
friend who wants to sell me her left over days on her
ticket. She said that even though my finger prints will
obviously not match hers that Disney will just have me sign
the ticket and I will be able to use it. Have you heard
anything about this? She supposedly heard this from someone
who works at Disney. I would hate to waste the money but on
the other hand if it is true then I could save some money.
Thanks for any info."
Disney's rule is that their tickets are non-transferable and
they enforce it vigorously.
Karen adds:
"I have a child ticket that we were unable to use when our
vacation was canceled last year. My son has since turned 10
and would require an adult ticket. Would I be able to
upgrade at the gates to an adult so that I will not lose the
money that I paid for this ticket?"
Yes, you can upgrade the ticket.
=================================================
Beth, our travel agent, was on hand for the premiere of
Expedition Everest. We published the following report on our
blog April 7. Here it is again if you missed it:
"There sure were a lot of puffy eyes at Boma this morning
during breakfast! That's because the big press/industry
event to celebrate the grand opening of Expedition Everest
was held last night at Animal Kingdom. But I'm getting ahead
of myself. Let me start with check-in.
My 8-year-old daughter and I arrived (after having lunch at
Trail's End in Ft. Wilderness) around 2:00 yesterday
(Thursday). Check-in at the front desk was uneventful and
nothing out of the ordinary. We headed to our room and found
that we had a great location on the fourth floor overlooking
the central savannah. We quickly unpacked and headed
upstairs to the event hospitality suite. This was set up in
the Vice Presidential suite on the 5th floor. Wow! Now
THAT's a hotel room! Anyway, after signing in, I was given
two complimentary 4-day hoppers with 4 water park +
admissions. (The tickets expire in a few days and I
apparently can't pay to make them not expire.) I also
received a welcome gift bag.
There was a big tray of assorted huge cookies and a nice
beverage selection, so we each grabbed a cookie and a soda
and headed back to the room to check out the contents of the
gift bag. It was an Expedition Everest lunch bag covered on
one side with white fur and the EE logo. Pretty cool. Inside
we found two beverages from the Coke-Cola Co that we didn't
even know existed. There was a t-shirt, a VERY nice watch,
several light-up key chains and such, a special EE edition
box of Nestle Snowcaps candy, a pack of Sharpie markers, and
a compass/clock/clip from the Discovery Channel.
After cramming everything back in the bag, we changed into
swimsuits for a quick jaunt to the hotel pool. Refreshing,
as always! Then we ran back to the room to change, and I
took my daughter to Simba's Clubhouse. (This is AKL's
childcare facility.) I had to help her select what she
wanted for dinner from a menu, sign her in, and sign for a
beeper. The staff was very friendly, and my daughter ran off
with them without looking back.
Then off to the bus for me. They had special buses outside
for us that carried us over to a backstage entrance at
Animal Kingdom. The park was closed by then, so it was a
little odd to be the only ones in sight as we headed into
the industry cocktail party at the Tusker House. The main
room had three tables of food - including one with a
mountain of shrimp (yum!) - and some high tables... the kind
you stand at while you eat. The second room had a bar (open
bar service all evening with beer, wine, and mixed drinks)
and many tables with chairs. Each table had two types of
center pieces. One was an ice sculpture with the EE logo
etched into the center of it, and the other was a sculpture
of a mountain with white carnations used to simulate the
snow-capped peaks.
Around 7:00 we were escorted around the park to the Asia
section where we had to pass through a thick cloud of (dry-
ice) "smoke" and were subsequently greeted with street
performers and a lineup of people draping colorful scarves
around our necks. Crossing into the event area there were
two directions to go, but both offered table after table of
buffet items and countless bars serving exotic drinks like
mocha martinis and mango cosmopolitans. (Plenty of beer,
wine, soda, coffee, etc., too.) There were several bands
playing, street performers all over the place, and of course
- Expedition Everest which was available to ride all evening
with no lines to wait in! (And no, I haven't yet worked up
the nerve to ride. Apparently I didn't try enough of the
cocktails.)
We all got very cool lanyards with a 'pass' for the evening.
One side was sort of an 'admit one' ticket, while the other
side was a map of where the food, entertainment stages, open
attractions, and evening finale were located. Nice touch.
Another fun touch were the bags of white cotton candy 'snow
balls used as decoration. My daughter wasn't happy that she
couldn't attend the event with me, but one of those 'snow
balls' earned me her forgiveness pretty quickly. The theme
of the evening was 'fire and ice.' The ice carvings,
wandering people in parkas, and snow balls (plus a looming
Everest) achieved the snow part, while the finale on the
lagoon - a dramatic achievement in fireworks and flames -
accomplished the fire part nicely. Other more subtle
reminders of both - like lanterns on all the dining tables -
furthered the theme.
OK, on to the main event. After breakfast this morning we
were taken by buses to the main entrance of Animal Kingdom
and led by guide through separate bag-check lines, and then
around the park and into the roped off area. (Expedition
Everest doesn't open to the general public until 2PM today.)
We were given small bottles of cold water, a Disney Wildlife
Conservation Fund button, and a battery-operated
flashlight/fan (on carabiner clip) as we entered. Not sure
how I managed this, but I ended up right in front of the
stage with a clear view of the podium.
Jay Rasulo, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, was
master of ceremonies. He started by announcing that last
night five $100,000 checks were presented by the Disney
Wildlife Conservation fund to some very special people:
actors John Cleese and Isabella Rossellini, Jane Goodall,
and two others including a Nobel Peace Prize winner and
another person (sorry - had a hard time taking notes!), all
of whom are very active in conservation efforts. Each of
these people was on hand (except Jane who was here last
night, but had a representative today). We were also
introduced to the sons of the first people to climb Mt.
Everest and a man from the Discovery Channel who talked
about the many shows that will be airing in conjunction with
the opening of EE. I forget how many new species of
creatures were discovered during the research for this
attraction, but it was a bunch. Can't wait to see these
shows.
Anyway, we then moved over to the front of the attraction
where Disney's president and CEO, Bob Iger, did a brief
introduction, and then Olympic gold medalist Hannah Teeter
officially cut the ribbon - at which point amidst a great
deal of 'smoke' the first train came flying down the side of
the mountain with the cast of Disney's hit made-for-TV movie
High School Musical aboard. Afterwards, guides were
available to take people on tours of the park. I, of course,
ran back to the bus and to the hotel to file this report!
So it's officially open! I'm happy to say that my daughter
enjoyed her time this morning with the sitter I hired from
Kid's Nite Out, and we're now officially done with our grand
opening events. I'm going to head up to the suite to grab a
few sodas for our frig, and then we'll head out to a park.
It's a gorgeous day, so I'm thinking maybe Typhoon Lagoon
for a bit....
Well, that's all for now. Disney sure knows how to throw a
party!"
Beth sent us this final note:
"We didn't set the alarm Friday night, but still managed to
wake up fairly early and make good use of the morning hours.
We headed out of our room about 8:15 and had just a short
wait before the Epcot bus came. We quickly cleared the 'bag
check' line. Here's a hint: Before the turnstyles open, the
lines start to really grow, but if you pass through the bag
check and head to the right, just excusing yourself through
those lines, we found the ones furthest to the right to be
substantially shorter, so when they DID open we got through
pretty fast and could head straight up to the right of
Spaceship Earth and over to the rope line at Innoventions
West. It's important to be there because, after doing the
countdown and dropping the rope, you're as close as you can
get to The Land pavilion [where Soarin' is located].
We did our best speed walking up the incline along with the
rest of the herd. I seriously felt as if I was getting a
first-hand taste of the Disney marathon! Down the stairs,
across the pavilion, and to the Fast Pass machines we went,
grabbing two of the first ones issued for the day (return
time of 9:45-10:45). Then we ran around and got in line and
had only a 15 minute wait before we got to ride. After
exiting, we went across to the Living with the Land boats -
which can have a really long wait time later in the day -
and quickly found ourselves aboard the cruise through
hydroponic gardens and such to see what they're growing
these days. They're doing some amazing things with pumpkins
and tomatoes!
Then we had a yummy breakfast from the The Land's Sunshine
Seasons dining area. A large pastry and large muffin and
two drinks were under $7 with tax, so it's a bargain. Then
back to Soarin' to ride for a second time using our Fast
Passes. We then met up with some friends from Naples to
ride Spaceship Earth, and then back to the hotel to put on
bathing suites.
We arrived at Typhoon Lagoon in time for lunch, and even
found two chairs! This was our first time there so I didn't
know what to expect really. I learned that forgetting your
towels is a costly mistake ($1 per towel to rent them), that
no one bugs your stuff when you're not around (I left my
park tickets and room keys with charge abilities in my pants
pocket, but I wouldn't recommend that), and that grilled
cheese pretzels are a great thing for lunch.
I also learned that while TL is the better of the two water
parks (in my opinion) for young children or those that don't
swim well, there still isn't that much to do. My daughter
was too big for the tike areas, and two timid for the heavy-
duty slides. Even a sturdy 8-year-old can EASILY be knocked
over by the powerful wave action in the wave pool. (We sat
on a bench along the edge and still got smacked backwards
pretty hard.) Castaway Creek, the slow-moving river of
inner tubes that meanders around the park, is really
tranquil and suitable even for most younger children and
non-swimmers given the shallow water (about 3'), and during
times when everything thing else has long wait times, it
seems very easy to grab a few empty tubes floating fast.
The park is really pretty, and a nice way to relax. Don't
forget the sunscreen!
We headed back about 4:00, changed clothes, and caught a bus
to MGM and then transferred to a boat to the Yacht & Beach
clubs to eat at one of my favorite spots, Beaches & Cream.
Two thumbs up on the Caesar salad with shrimp. The side of
onion rings was plenty to share. My daughter had a grilled
chicken sandwich with fresh fruit, and then we each chose a
dessert. My 'No Way Jose' was a peanut butter and fudge
delight, while Emily's Mud Slide produced huge smiles from a
very tired child. Warning, though... we had enough food for
four, and didn't come anywhere close to finishing. What's
more, we were using dining vouchers provided by Disney as
part of the invitation to this special weekend, but without
them the meal would have run us about $54 with tax and
gratuity. That's for a chicken sandwich and a salad, two
sides, two drinks, and two sundaes. Yet another place where
the dining plan comes in handy - especially if it's free!
Then we rode the bus over to Downtown Disney for some quick
shopping before heading back to the hotel. We both slept
like rocks, and I barely noticed the noisy thunderstorm that
started around 3:30 in the morning. I'd had every intention
of stopping in a park for a few hours before heading home,
but frankly, my feet were pretty tired and that three-and-a-
half hours of driving ahead of me would have put a real
damper on things, so we just did a quick stop in the
giftshop and headed out. Final hint: when in a giftshop ask
if there's anything on sale. We picked up a really nice
tote bag that had been $30 for just $10, and we got a
gorgeous beach towel that had been $20 for half off.
That's all for now. I have a bunch of emails to catch up
with, so I'll be perched at the computer for the next few
days (trying not to let the pixie dust wear off too
quickly). A great trip from start to finish. Can't wait
until they invite me to another special event!!! :-)"
=================================================
Pixar/Disney Collectible
Pixar stock certificates are becoming valuable as a
collector's item due to Disney's recent acquisition of the
company. The certificates are very colorful and are
decorated with pictures of Woody and Buzz Lightyear from
"Toy Story." Now comes with Free Shipping till 04/15/06. Use
code: freeship. Pixar disappears April 23. Get yourcollectible stock certificate here!
=================================================
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Don't Leave Home Without It!
Universal offers special deals to Universal Entertainment
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--------------------------------
Affordable Disney Books
Disney and other new books 50-90% off the list price.
Hundreds of books under $1.00! Plus! Over 700 videos have
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--------------------------------
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--------------------------------
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--------------------------------
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Own a piece of the Magic Kingdom
Disney framed stock certificates are works of art. They
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=============================================
See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
=============================================
Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee the accuracy of information
contained in THE DISNEY NEWS. Always check to be sure. The
views and opinions expressed by others in THE DISNEY NEWS do
not necessarily reflect the views of AffordableDisney.Com.
=============================================
posted by AffordableDisney.Com at 7:24 AM
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