Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
January 3, 2007
Copyright © 1999 - 2007 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
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Hi Everyone!
IMPORTANT NOTE: Disney typically raises its ticket prices in January. Members should contact our ticket agent before the increase! Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - Stay at this Orlando Hotel for $9 per night per person!
* The latest news from around the "World" - Disney raises age requirement at 5 Pleasure Island Clubs
* Deborah writes about Beth, our travel agent
* Details about Nemo and Friends Under the Sea attraction at Epcot
* An overview of Disney’s "Year of a Million Dreams" promotion
* This week's coupon - Enjoy priority seating at Wolfgang Puck's Grand Cafe at Downtown Disney with this coupon!
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
We now list 23 Sweepstakes to win a Walt Disney World/Florida/Disneyland/Southern California vacation!
This group saves 15% on Adventures by Disney vacations.
These groups can get a three-month Pleasure Island Pass for FREE with the purchase of a Multi-Club ticket.
Get a 15-month pass to Pleasure Island for the price of a 12-month pass.
Details about Walt Disney World's Teddy Bear and Doll Weekend Event Package for May, 2007.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Stay at this Orlando Hotel from $9 per night, per person, based on quadruple occupancy, on select nights in January!
Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69!
This group saves $80 on day visits to SeaWorld's Discovery Cove!
Save 10% on SeaWorld's Discovery Cove packages!
Buy one ticket and get one FREE at this popular theme park!
This group saves $17.00 per ticket to Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
This group can gain admission to Disneyland Park one day and Disney's California Adventure Park the next day with the purchase of one ticket!
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VEGAS
Indulge yourself this winter at this luxury resort & casino:
Deluxe Rooms $169/night
Suites - $249/night
One Bedroom Penthouse Suites - $559/night
Upgrade any suite to lakeview for only $50/night
Promotion runs January 31, 2007 - March 8, 2007.
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VACATION SPECIAL
4-Night vacation package to Dominican Republic includes round-trip airfare and hotel accommodations:
$777+ - from Ft. Lauderdale
$852+ - from Orlando or Tampa
$927+ - from Atlanta, Atlantic City, Chicago, Detroit, New York/LaGuardia, Providence or Washington, D.C./Reagan National.
Rates are per person based on double occupancy for Thursday departures on select dates in January, February, March and first week in April.
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Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 50 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:
WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> FREE Customized Park Maps for Walt Disney World!
>> This group can save up to $80.00 per night on Disney accommodations!
>> Deals for the military, teachers, government workers, nurses, Florida residents!
>> Receive a 5th Day FREE when you purchase a Walt Disney World 4-Day Magic Your Way Base or Hopper ticket with 14 day Expiration!
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Save up to 25% per night at Universal's Royal Pacific Resort!
>> FREE admission for kids to Tarzan, Lion King and Beauty and the Beast on Broadway!FREE admission for kids to Tarzan, Lion King and Beauty and the Beast on Broadway!
>> These teachers receive a FREE ticket to both Universal Orlando theme parks!
>> Save up to 40% at this Luxury Resort just 6 miles from Walt Disney World!
>> New Discounts available on tickets to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens! Good for 6 consecutive days, too!
>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of
Adventure for less than $20!
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
* Three nights from $429!
* Four nights from $539!
* Seven nights Land & Sea from $899!
>> This group receives a $50 onboard credit good for buying merchandise, shore excursions, etc. on their 2007 Disney cruise!
>> New discount rates just posted for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
>> New discount rate for Canadians - includes stateroom credit, too!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
* Adults get in at kids prices with this vacation package!
* Ticket upgrade, tour discounts, FREE photo souvenir for these groups!
* Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
* Save $10.00 on admission to Universal Studios Hollywood and get a second visit for FREE!
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Bring the kids for FREE with this vacation package! They'll enjoy free accommodations, park tickets and more!
>> Stay one night and get one night FREE + breakfast!
>> This group saves 19 Euros per ticket to the Disneyland theme parks!
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VEGAS
>>Stay at this Resort & Casino from $69! Upgrade to a Suite from $89!
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BRANSON, MISSOURI
Free Accommodations for the military!
This luxury Branson golf resort community is offering two FREE nights - no strings attached - to active-duty U.S. military personnel on leave from the Middle East. Located just off the Branson Strip, it is conveniently situated between international award-winning theme park, Silver Dollar City, and Branson’s 49 live music theaters. Reservations will be accepted until January 1, 2008 for stays occurring before February 1, 2008.
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CRUISES
>> Cruises to Europe and the Caribbean from $599 per person!
>> Inexpensive Shore Excursions and Tours!
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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
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE "WORLD"
WALT DISNEY WORLD
This Day in Disney History
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The Magic Kingdom closed three times last week because of heavy crowds. Yet there is a really nice place in the park where you can escape the crowds and relax. It is so quiet that we mention in our book that a child can take a nap there! A reporter from the Orlando Sentinel recently discovered it for himself. Click here to read his comments.
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5 Pleasure Island Clubs Raise Age Limit to 21
"The new guidelines, allowing entry only to people ages 21 or older, go into effect for the BET SoundStage Club, 8TRAX, Mannequins Dance Palace, Rock 'n' Roll Beach Club and Motion. Younger people still will be welcome at two clubs that have broader entertainment, the Adventurers Club and the Comedy Warehouse, though an adult must accompany anyone under age 18. All ages still are welcome at the Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 01/01/07)
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Disney Closings
* Splash Mountain is now closed for refurbishing until January 28
* Rock 'n' Roller Coaster is closed until January 22
* Typhoon Lagoon is closed until March 18 (Blizzard Beach reopens Saturday after recent refurbishment)
* Epcot's Wonders of Life Pavilion is closed with no reopening date announced
* El Rio del Tiempo at Epcot is closed until April 2
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"A comedy club show based on the popular Monsters, Inc. movie apparently isn't quite ready for the big time.
Walt Disney World has confirmed that the opening of its next big attraction -- The Monsters, Inc. The Laugh Floor Comedy Club show -- will be delayed a few months so that Walt Disney Imagineering can make adjustments now that test audiences got to try it out earlier this month." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 12/28/06)
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Customers seem to like the new theme park menus which offer healthier items and foods fried without trans fats. Click here for the rest of the story.
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Anne Ceruti is the vice-president for talent acquisition at Walt Disney... During the 2005-06 school year, Disney recruited on 450 undergraduate campuses. Ceruti spoke to BusinessWeek's Lindsey Gerdes." Click here to read the interview.
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Click here for a "The Fox and the Hound 2" wallpaper for your desktop.
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Here's an interesting article on the Osborne Christmas Lights at MGM.
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
"iVillage Live is the new national, daytime TV talk show based on the iVillage.com Internet site and jointly produced, in an Islands of Adventure amphitheater, by NBC and Universal... Universal reconfigured an existing amphitheater for smaller crowds and TV broadcast needs. The front seating was ripped out and replaced with 300 chairs, each equipped with remote voting devices... A separate entrance was created, so those who call or write in can attend the show without buying theme park tickets and coming through Islands of Adventure." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 01/01/07)
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
"We are honored to bring our readers some great news -- plans have been announced for a Walt Disney Family Museum on San Francisco's Presidio. The museum will give new life to a historic building, and honor the achievements and life of the man who brought us the Mouse. Although the Walt Disney Family Museum has been a wonderful and enriching presence online for several years, the new museum location will allow people to visit and see firsthand the treasures that recall Walt's life." (Source: Disney Insider, 12/27/06)
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Disneyland Resort Calendar
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HONG KONG DISNEYLAND
Click here to see a slideshow of Disney's New Year's Eve countdown to 2007.)
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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.
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Joleen, an Affordable Disney Lifetime Member, writes:
"this will be our third trip to disney using Beth [your travel agent] and your website to arrange the vacation!! Beth is a doll and would bend over backwards to help everyone!! Thank you."
Thank you again, Joleen, for your kind comments. Beth and I are very happy to have played a part in planning your Disney vacations!
Rebecca writes:
"The newsletter is great, keep em' coming."
Thanks, Rebecca. I can't believe we'll publish our 400th issue this year!
Deborah writes:
"I just wanted to send you a copy of the letter that I sent to Beth after our return home from our most magical trip to Disney ever! She did a great job of helping with the magic.
Hi Beth,
Dewey and I returned on Sunday from our most magical trip to WDW ever! Even though we both picked up a bug while we were there and I had to go to the immediate care center, Disney went all out and more than made up for our sniffles. When we first went into the parks, we made sure to stop by Guest Relations to get our 'Happy Anniversary' pins. From then on, we were given all sorts of little treats and special gifts. From our own boat in the ride in the Mexican pavilion at Epcot to our own personal time with the characters at Donald's Breakfastosaurus and a special fast pass to use in the Animal Kingdom to a special pin from the pin booth outside the American Pavilion, where we celebrated our Anniversary at the Candlight Processional. What an awesome experience!
I know you told them at the Wilderness Lodge that we were celebrating our anniversary, but I don't know if you put any other bugs in Mickey's ears. Anyway, when we went to check in, a young man met us at the registration desk, and said that his name was Mark, and he was going to take us up to our room. I asked him when they started giving everybody their own personal bellman, and started to look around for our luggage. I am sure that if any cameras were on nearby, my actions would have looked hysterical. He said that he was just going to show us to our room, and that our luggage would be up in a few minutes. We followed him to the elevator, where he put his key card in the slot, and the number 7 lit up. I asked him why we were going up to the top floor, since I know that is the Concierge floor. He broke out into a big smile, and said, 'Happy Anniversary, and welcome home to the Wilderness Lodge.'
I almost fainted! My husband grabbed my arm to keep me from falling down. We were really treated like royalty (I told everyone that movie stars have to pay for the kind of treatment we got). Dewey is a diabetic, and we never had to worry about something for him to eat. They said they had light refreshments at supper time, but it was a full meal. I will never forget that weekend as long as I live. Our room faced the Magic Kingdom, and I could look out and see the castle, the Christmas tree all lit up, and the fireworks!!! We had a great view.
It was also sweet the last day we went to Epcot, and a cast member asked us for our autographs. It was really a trip to remember. Thanks for your part in it."
What a wonderful surprise Disney gave you to celebrate your anniversary! Disney guests should remember to let Disney know if they will be celebrating their anniversary, birthday, honeymoon, or any special occasion, during their visit. Disney may do something special for you!
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In an Amazing New Attraction, Walt Disney World Guests Can Find Nemo and Friends Under the Sea at a Newly Re-launched Epcot Pavilion
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- As an encore to the Disney-Pixar blockbuster film "Finding Nemo," Nemo the clownfish and his motion picture family and friends make a big splash in an eye-filling new attraction at Epcot. "The Seas with Nemo & Friends" attraction brings the familiar characters to life, anchoring the newly renamed and re-launched The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion (formerly The Living Seas) in Epcot Future World.
A whimsical and visually stunning attraction for Walt Disney World guests of all ages, "The Seas with Nemo & Friends" attraction picks up where the motion picture "Finding Nemo" left off. The attraction features technology that magically enables the stars of the motion picture to swim amid the marine life in the pavilion's 5.7-million-gallon saltwater environment.
"'Finding Nemo' is such a compelling movie with endearing characters and a great story line, and it translates so well in this new attraction," said Kathy Mangum, vice president and executive producer with Walt Disney Imagineering.
The underwater adventure begins when guests approach the pavilion and see a striking new façade that features colorful appliqués of fish and sea creatures. Three Audio-Animatronics seagulls are perched on the rocks outside the pavilion, occasionally squawking "Mine, Mine, Mine," just like in the film.
Inside the pavilion guests enter a queue area styled to look like a beach -- complete with sand dunes, sea oats and the sound of cawing gulls and crashing waves. As guests dive deeper into the experience, they find themselves under the sea, looking up at the water's surface and the hull of a boat.
The immersion is complete as guests board "clamobiles" for an undersea voyage in a colorful world of coral and amazing animation (the attraction is fully accessible).
The vivid coral in the first three of nine attraction scenes was created by Walt Disney Imagineers in three dimensions to meticulously recreate the beautiful undersea world that was designed by Pixar for the "Finding Nemo" animated film.
Guests first meet Mr. Ray and his class on a field trip and soon learn that Nemo has wandered off. The journey in search of Nemo includes familiar characters such as Dory, Marlin, Bruce, Squirt and Crush. These deep-sea friends inhabit a variety of vibrant vignettes, including a garden of jellyfish, a bubble-filled underwater playground, the menacing domain of Bruce the shark and the totally cool East Australian current where Crush and Squirt -- father and son surfing-turtle dudes -- chill out. And guests should keep their eye on the threatening and agile anglerfish that chases Marlin.
In the musical finale of the attraction, Nemo is happily reunited with his friends to the tune of a new song, "Big Blue World." Amazingly, the animated characters appear to be swimming among the real sea life in the actual aquarium containing more than 65 species of marine life. This final scene is an example of combining the creativity of Walt Disney Imagineering with new technology and collaboration with Pixar to create the visually stunning, animation projection effect.
At the conclusion of the five-minute experience, guests exit into The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion which has been newly renamed and re-launched. Other innovative and engaging areas of the revamped pavilion include:
* "Turtle Talk With Crush" featuring the laid-back sea turtle from the "Finding Nemo" movie, who laughs and interacts with guests in live, unscripted conversations. From his digital world under the sea, Crush chats, plays and jokes with guests in a personalized way. The 152-year-old turtle recognizes guests and asks them questions about themselves and the human world in the first-of-its-kind real-time animated show.
* Bruce's Shark World, which features another familiar character from the film, is an interactive area with colorful graphics, fun facts about sharks and fun photo opportunities. A particularly precarious-looking photo can be snapped while smiling guests stand inside the toothy mouth of the menacing Bruce the shark.
* Live marine life inhabits both the 5.7 million gallon aquarium -- one of the world's largest -- and various specialized exhibits. In all, more than 2,000 fish, sharks, rays and dolphins call the pavilion home.
* Certified divers can experience Epcot DiveQuest, a program featuring explorations inside the pavilion's saltwater environment. For snorkelers, the Seas Aqua Tour provides an immersive plunge into the aquarium. To learn more about dolphins and research at the pavilion, guests can join Disney's Dolphins in Depth program.
The new attraction opened as part of "The Year of a Million Dreams," a first-of-its-kind celebration on now with more than one million very special dreams granted to guests visiting Walt Disney World and Disneyland resorts. Guests will find Disney cast members delivering an unprecedented level of guest service. The celebration also is highlighted by the debut of innovative Disney attractions and entertainment spectaculars at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World resorts. (Source: Walt Disney World Press Release, 12/11/06)
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At-a-Glance: Disney’s ‘Year of a Million Dreams’
WHAT: During "The Year of a Million Dreams," more than one million very special dreams will be granted to guests at Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. The special celebration was inspired by focus groups that identified Disney Parks as the places where dreams come true.
WHEN: Oct. 1, 2006-Dec. 31, 2007
CAST AS DREAM MAKERS: Thousands of Disney cast members will be creating an unprecedented number of Magical Moments as members of the new Dream Squad. On special assignment for the 15-month celebration, these cast members are taking Disney friendliness to exciting new heights with personal interactions marked by special surprises.
MAGICAL MOMENTS: Disney is awarding more than a million dreams -- both large and small, including many money-can't-buy experiences -- such as being official wildlife spotter on a Disney's Animal Kingdom safari, getting a Hollywood rush during a celebrity-style handprint ceremony at Disney-MGM Studios or helping open a Disney park in the morning.
DISNEY DREAMS GIVEAWAY: Unforgettable dreams include traveling to each Disney resort globally as grand marshal in a parade, a variety of unique Disney vacation experiences, a Dream FASTPASS and admission to special events. Available to eligible and mail-in participants selected through a random process as part of the Disney Dreams Giveaway.
ONE-OF-A-KIND ACCOMMODATIONS: Perhaps the most magical Disney Dreams Giveaway will be overnight experiences for winning guests at both East and West Coast resorts: a royal suite inside Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World Resort (opening January 2007) and a Mickey Mouse Penthouse at Disneyland Resort.
IMMERSIVE ENTERTAINMENT: "The Year of a Million Dreams" also includes a whole lineup of immersive entertainment that draws guests into the middle of the action. Guests might find themselves living the buccaneer life as a pirate of the Caribbean, "getting royal" with a Disney prince or princess, learning the ways of a Jedi in the Star Wars galaxy, or joining in a high-energy "High School Musical" pep rally.
NEW SHOWS AND ATTRACTIONS: As if thousands of dreams bestowed daily aren't enough, Disney guests will also be treated to new attractions and shows debuting at Walt Disney World and Disneyland resorts as part of "The Year of a Million Dreams":
At Walt Disney World Resort
* "The Seas with Nemo & Friends": Epcot's newest attraction picks up where the Disney-Pixar animated hit "Finding Nemo" left off. The stars of the film appear to swim amid the marine life of the saltwater environment in The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion.
* "Finding Nemo-The Musical": At Disney's Animal Kingdom, the undersea world that charmed audiences worldwide in the Disney-Pixar motion picture "Finding Nemo" will come to life in an all-new, Broadway-caliber musical stage show.
* Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor Comedy Club (Spring 2007): Magic Kingdom guests will laugh, joke, sing songs and match wits with the beloved animated characters from Disney-Pixar's "Monsters, Inc." in an engaging and interactive attraction being created by Disney Imagineers.
* "Dream Along with Mickey": Several times daily, Mickey and friends (and some foes!) treat Magic Kingdom guests to a musical stage show and dreams-inspired celebration on the forecourt stage of Cinderella Castle.
At Disneyland Resort
* Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage (Summer 2007): Inspired by Disney-Pixar's "Finding Nemo," this all-new adventure will take guests on an underwater excursion. Thanks to amazing technology, guests will be treated to a view of Nemo and friends exactly as they appear in the film.
* Rockin' Both Parks (Spring 2007): For 16 weeks (Jan. 3-April 26, 2007), Space Mountain will become a new experience with an all-new soundtrack to fit the exciting twists and turns. Riders of California Screamin' at Disney's California Adventure Park will also be treated to a new, groovin' soundtrack. (Source: Walt Disney World Press Release, 12/08/06)
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PRIORITY SEATING COUPON
Wolfgang Puck Grand Café Downtown Disney
1482 East Buena Vista Drive
Orlando, FL 32830
Phone: 407-938-9653
Fax: 407-934-5389
Ideal place for a casual lunch or dinner overlooking Lake Buena Vista. Enjoy priority seating with this coupon. Valid through 09/30/07.
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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.
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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 been marked down to $1.99! To check out the bargains, click here.
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Got Coupons?
With the Orlando Entertainment Book, you can save big on travel, groceries, shopping, movie tickets, and more! 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.
Get FREE shipping on the new 2007 book for a limited time!
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Affordable Disney Movies and CD's
Save 40-70% on your favorite Disney Movie or CD! Cheap shipping, too! Click here.
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Affordable Accommodations
Enjoy Special Rates at select hotels, condos and vacation rentals near Disney. Plus! Receive up to a $100.00 rebate! For hotels, click here.
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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!!!"
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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.
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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.
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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.
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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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.
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January 3, 2007
Copyright © 1999 - 2007 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!
IMPORTANT NOTE: Disney typically raises its ticket prices in January. Members should contact our ticket agent before the increase! Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - Stay at this Orlando Hotel for $9 per night per person!
* The latest news from around the "World" - Disney raises age requirement at 5 Pleasure Island Clubs
* Deborah writes about Beth, our travel agent
* Details about Nemo and Friends Under the Sea attraction at Epcot
* An overview of Disney’s "Year of a Million Dreams" promotion
* This week's coupon - Enjoy priority seating at Wolfgang Puck's Grand Cafe at Downtown Disney with this coupon!
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
We now list 23 Sweepstakes to win a Walt Disney World/Florida/Disneyland/Southern California vacation!
This group saves 15% on Adventures by Disney vacations.
These groups can get a three-month Pleasure Island Pass for FREE with the purchase of a Multi-Club ticket.
Get a 15-month pass to Pleasure Island for the price of a 12-month pass.
Details about Walt Disney World's Teddy Bear and Doll Weekend Event Package for May, 2007.
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Stay at this Orlando Hotel from $9 per night, per person, based on quadruple occupancy, on select nights in January!
Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69!
This group saves $80 on day visits to SeaWorld's Discovery Cove!
Save 10% on SeaWorld's Discovery Cove packages!
Buy one ticket and get one FREE at this popular theme park!
This group saves $17.00 per ticket to Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
This group can gain admission to Disneyland Park one day and Disney's California Adventure Park the next day with the purchase of one ticket!
--------------------------------
VEGAS
Indulge yourself this winter at this luxury resort & casino:
Deluxe Rooms $169/night
Suites - $249/night
One Bedroom Penthouse Suites - $559/night
Upgrade any suite to lakeview for only $50/night
Promotion runs January 31, 2007 - March 8, 2007.
--------------------------------
VACATION SPECIAL
4-Night vacation package to Dominican Republic includes round-trip airfare and hotel accommodations:
$777+ - from Ft. Lauderdale
$852+ - from Orlando or Tampa
$927+ - from Atlanta, Atlantic City, Chicago, Detroit, New York/LaGuardia, Providence or Washington, D.C./Reagan National.
Rates are per person based on double occupancy for Thursday departures on select dates in January, February, March and first week in April.
--------------------------------
Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 50 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:
WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> FREE Customized Park Maps for Walt Disney World!
>> This group can save up to $80.00 per night on Disney accommodations!
>> Deals for the military, teachers, government workers, nurses, Florida residents!
>> Receive a 5th Day FREE when you purchase a Walt Disney World 4-Day Magic Your Way Base or Hopper ticket with 14 day Expiration!
--------------------------------
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Save up to 25% per night at Universal's Royal Pacific Resort!
>> FREE admission for kids to Tarzan, Lion King and Beauty and the Beast on Broadway!FREE admission for kids to Tarzan, Lion King and Beauty and the Beast on Broadway!
>> These teachers receive a FREE ticket to both Universal Orlando theme parks!
>> Save up to 40% at this Luxury Resort just 6 miles from Walt Disney World!
>> New Discounts available on tickets to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens! Good for 6 consecutive days, too!
>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of
Adventure for less than $20!
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
* Three nights from $429!
* Four nights from $539!
* Seven nights Land & Sea from $899!
>> This group receives a $50 onboard credit good for buying merchandise, shore excursions, etc. on their 2007 Disney cruise!
>> New discount rates just posted for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
>> New discount rate for Canadians - includes stateroom credit, too!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
* Adults get in at kids prices with this vacation package!
* Ticket upgrade, tour discounts, FREE photo souvenir for these groups!
* Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
* Save $10.00 on admission to Universal Studios Hollywood and get a second visit for FREE!
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Bring the kids for FREE with this vacation package! They'll enjoy free accommodations, park tickets and more!
>> Stay one night and get one night FREE + breakfast!
>> This group saves 19 Euros per ticket to the Disneyland theme parks!
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VEGAS
>>Stay at this Resort & Casino from $69! Upgrade to a Suite from $89!
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BRANSON, MISSOURI
Free Accommodations for the military!
This luxury Branson golf resort community is offering two FREE nights - no strings attached - to active-duty U.S. military personnel on leave from the Middle East. Located just off the Branson Strip, it is conveniently situated between international award-winning theme park, Silver Dollar City, and Branson’s 49 live music theaters. Reservations will be accepted until January 1, 2008 for stays occurring before February 1, 2008.
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CRUISES
>> Cruises to Europe and the Caribbean from $599 per person!
>> Inexpensive Shore Excursions and Tours!
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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
This Day in Disney History
--------------------------------
The Magic Kingdom closed three times last week because of heavy crowds. Yet there is a really nice place in the park where you can escape the crowds and relax. It is so quiet that we mention in our book that a child can take a nap there! A reporter from the Orlando Sentinel recently discovered it for himself. Click here to read his comments.
--------------------------------
5 Pleasure Island Clubs Raise Age Limit to 21
"The new guidelines, allowing entry only to people ages 21 or older, go into effect for the BET SoundStage Club, 8TRAX, Mannequins Dance Palace, Rock 'n' Roll Beach Club and Motion. Younger people still will be welcome at two clubs that have broader entertainment, the Adventurers Club and the Comedy Warehouse, though an adult must accompany anyone under age 18. All ages still are welcome at the Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 01/01/07)
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Disney Closings
* Splash Mountain is now closed for refurbishing until January 28
* Rock 'n' Roller Coaster is closed until January 22
* Typhoon Lagoon is closed until March 18 (Blizzard Beach reopens Saturday after recent refurbishment)
* Epcot's Wonders of Life Pavilion is closed with no reopening date announced
* El Rio del Tiempo at Epcot is closed until April 2
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"A comedy club show based on the popular Monsters, Inc. movie apparently isn't quite ready for the big time.
Walt Disney World has confirmed that the opening of its next big attraction -- The Monsters, Inc. The Laugh Floor Comedy Club show -- will be delayed a few months so that Walt Disney Imagineering can make adjustments now that test audiences got to try it out earlier this month." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 12/28/06)
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Customers seem to like the new theme park menus which offer healthier items and foods fried without trans fats. Click here for the rest of the story.
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Anne Ceruti is the vice-president for talent acquisition at Walt Disney... During the 2005-06 school year, Disney recruited on 450 undergraduate campuses. Ceruti spoke to BusinessWeek's Lindsey Gerdes." Click here to read the interview.
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Click here for a "The Fox and the Hound 2" wallpaper for your desktop.
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Here's an interesting article on the Osborne Christmas Lights at MGM.
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
"iVillage Live is the new national, daytime TV talk show based on the iVillage.com Internet site and jointly produced, in an Islands of Adventure amphitheater, by NBC and Universal... Universal reconfigured an existing amphitheater for smaller crowds and TV broadcast needs. The front seating was ripped out and replaced with 300 chairs, each equipped with remote voting devices... A separate entrance was created, so those who call or write in can attend the show without buying theme park tickets and coming through Islands of Adventure." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 01/01/07)
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
"We are honored to bring our readers some great news -- plans have been announced for a Walt Disney Family Museum on San Francisco's Presidio. The museum will give new life to a historic building, and honor the achievements and life of the man who brought us the Mouse. Although the Walt Disney Family Museum has been a wonderful and enriching presence online for several years, the new museum location will allow people to visit and see firsthand the treasures that recall Walt's life." (Source: Disney Insider, 12/27/06)
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Disneyland Resort Calendar
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HONG KONG DISNEYLAND
Click here to see a slideshow of Disney's New Year's Eve countdown to 2007.)
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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.
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Joleen, an Affordable Disney Lifetime Member, writes:
"this will be our third trip to disney using Beth [your travel agent] and your website to arrange the vacation!! Beth is a doll and would bend over backwards to help everyone!! Thank you."
Thank you again, Joleen, for your kind comments. Beth and I are very happy to have played a part in planning your Disney vacations!
Rebecca writes:
"The newsletter is great, keep em' coming."
Thanks, Rebecca. I can't believe we'll publish our 400th issue this year!
Deborah writes:
"I just wanted to send you a copy of the letter that I sent to Beth after our return home from our most magical trip to Disney ever! She did a great job of helping with the magic.
Hi Beth,
Dewey and I returned on Sunday from our most magical trip to WDW ever! Even though we both picked up a bug while we were there and I had to go to the immediate care center, Disney went all out and more than made up for our sniffles. When we first went into the parks, we made sure to stop by Guest Relations to get our 'Happy Anniversary' pins. From then on, we were given all sorts of little treats and special gifts. From our own boat in the ride in the Mexican pavilion at Epcot to our own personal time with the characters at Donald's Breakfastosaurus and a special fast pass to use in the Animal Kingdom to a special pin from the pin booth outside the American Pavilion, where we celebrated our Anniversary at the Candlight Processional. What an awesome experience!
I know you told them at the Wilderness Lodge that we were celebrating our anniversary, but I don't know if you put any other bugs in Mickey's ears. Anyway, when we went to check in, a young man met us at the registration desk, and said that his name was Mark, and he was going to take us up to our room. I asked him when they started giving everybody their own personal bellman, and started to look around for our luggage. I am sure that if any cameras were on nearby, my actions would have looked hysterical. He said that he was just going to show us to our room, and that our luggage would be up in a few minutes. We followed him to the elevator, where he put his key card in the slot, and the number 7 lit up. I asked him why we were going up to the top floor, since I know that is the Concierge floor. He broke out into a big smile, and said, 'Happy Anniversary, and welcome home to the Wilderness Lodge.'
I almost fainted! My husband grabbed my arm to keep me from falling down. We were really treated like royalty (I told everyone that movie stars have to pay for the kind of treatment we got). Dewey is a diabetic, and we never had to worry about something for him to eat. They said they had light refreshments at supper time, but it was a full meal. I will never forget that weekend as long as I live. Our room faced the Magic Kingdom, and I could look out and see the castle, the Christmas tree all lit up, and the fireworks!!! We had a great view.
It was also sweet the last day we went to Epcot, and a cast member asked us for our autographs. It was really a trip to remember. Thanks for your part in it."
What a wonderful surprise Disney gave you to celebrate your anniversary! Disney guests should remember to let Disney know if they will be celebrating their anniversary, birthday, honeymoon, or any special occasion, during their visit. Disney may do something special for you!
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In an Amazing New Attraction, Walt Disney World Guests Can Find Nemo and Friends Under the Sea at a Newly Re-launched Epcot Pavilion
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- As an encore to the Disney-Pixar blockbuster film "Finding Nemo," Nemo the clownfish and his motion picture family and friends make a big splash in an eye-filling new attraction at Epcot. "The Seas with Nemo & Friends" attraction brings the familiar characters to life, anchoring the newly renamed and re-launched The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion (formerly The Living Seas) in Epcot Future World.
A whimsical and visually stunning attraction for Walt Disney World guests of all ages, "The Seas with Nemo & Friends" attraction picks up where the motion picture "Finding Nemo" left off. The attraction features technology that magically enables the stars of the motion picture to swim amid the marine life in the pavilion's 5.7-million-gallon saltwater environment.
"'Finding Nemo' is such a compelling movie with endearing characters and a great story line, and it translates so well in this new attraction," said Kathy Mangum, vice president and executive producer with Walt Disney Imagineering.
The underwater adventure begins when guests approach the pavilion and see a striking new façade that features colorful appliqués of fish and sea creatures. Three Audio-Animatronics seagulls are perched on the rocks outside the pavilion, occasionally squawking "Mine, Mine, Mine," just like in the film.
Inside the pavilion guests enter a queue area styled to look like a beach -- complete with sand dunes, sea oats and the sound of cawing gulls and crashing waves. As guests dive deeper into the experience, they find themselves under the sea, looking up at the water's surface and the hull of a boat.
The immersion is complete as guests board "clamobiles" for an undersea voyage in a colorful world of coral and amazing animation (the attraction is fully accessible).
The vivid coral in the first three of nine attraction scenes was created by Walt Disney Imagineers in three dimensions to meticulously recreate the beautiful undersea world that was designed by Pixar for the "Finding Nemo" animated film.
Guests first meet Mr. Ray and his class on a field trip and soon learn that Nemo has wandered off. The journey in search of Nemo includes familiar characters such as Dory, Marlin, Bruce, Squirt and Crush. These deep-sea friends inhabit a variety of vibrant vignettes, including a garden of jellyfish, a bubble-filled underwater playground, the menacing domain of Bruce the shark and the totally cool East Australian current where Crush and Squirt -- father and son surfing-turtle dudes -- chill out. And guests should keep their eye on the threatening and agile anglerfish that chases Marlin.
In the musical finale of the attraction, Nemo is happily reunited with his friends to the tune of a new song, "Big Blue World." Amazingly, the animated characters appear to be swimming among the real sea life in the actual aquarium containing more than 65 species of marine life. This final scene is an example of combining the creativity of Walt Disney Imagineering with new technology and collaboration with Pixar to create the visually stunning, animation projection effect.
At the conclusion of the five-minute experience, guests exit into The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion which has been newly renamed and re-launched. Other innovative and engaging areas of the revamped pavilion include:
* "Turtle Talk With Crush" featuring the laid-back sea turtle from the "Finding Nemo" movie, who laughs and interacts with guests in live, unscripted conversations. From his digital world under the sea, Crush chats, plays and jokes with guests in a personalized way. The 152-year-old turtle recognizes guests and asks them questions about themselves and the human world in the first-of-its-kind real-time animated show.
* Bruce's Shark World, which features another familiar character from the film, is an interactive area with colorful graphics, fun facts about sharks and fun photo opportunities. A particularly precarious-looking photo can be snapped while smiling guests stand inside the toothy mouth of the menacing Bruce the shark.
* Live marine life inhabits both the 5.7 million gallon aquarium -- one of the world's largest -- and various specialized exhibits. In all, more than 2,000 fish, sharks, rays and dolphins call the pavilion home.
* Certified divers can experience Epcot DiveQuest, a program featuring explorations inside the pavilion's saltwater environment. For snorkelers, the Seas Aqua Tour provides an immersive plunge into the aquarium. To learn more about dolphins and research at the pavilion, guests can join Disney's Dolphins in Depth program.
The new attraction opened as part of "The Year of a Million Dreams," a first-of-its-kind celebration on now with more than one million very special dreams granted to guests visiting Walt Disney World and Disneyland resorts. Guests will find Disney cast members delivering an unprecedented level of guest service. The celebration also is highlighted by the debut of innovative Disney attractions and entertainment spectaculars at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World resorts. (Source: Walt Disney World Press Release, 12/11/06)
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At-a-Glance: Disney’s ‘Year of a Million Dreams’
WHAT: During "The Year of a Million Dreams," more than one million very special dreams will be granted to guests at Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. The special celebration was inspired by focus groups that identified Disney Parks as the places where dreams come true.
WHEN: Oct. 1, 2006-Dec. 31, 2007
CAST AS DREAM MAKERS: Thousands of Disney cast members will be creating an unprecedented number of Magical Moments as members of the new Dream Squad. On special assignment for the 15-month celebration, these cast members are taking Disney friendliness to exciting new heights with personal interactions marked by special surprises.
MAGICAL MOMENTS: Disney is awarding more than a million dreams -- both large and small, including many money-can't-buy experiences -- such as being official wildlife spotter on a Disney's Animal Kingdom safari, getting a Hollywood rush during a celebrity-style handprint ceremony at Disney-MGM Studios or helping open a Disney park in the morning.
DISNEY DREAMS GIVEAWAY: Unforgettable dreams include traveling to each Disney resort globally as grand marshal in a parade, a variety of unique Disney vacation experiences, a Dream FASTPASS and admission to special events. Available to eligible and mail-in participants selected through a random process as part of the Disney Dreams Giveaway.
ONE-OF-A-KIND ACCOMMODATIONS: Perhaps the most magical Disney Dreams Giveaway will be overnight experiences for winning guests at both East and West Coast resorts: a royal suite inside Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World Resort (opening January 2007) and a Mickey Mouse Penthouse at Disneyland Resort.
IMMERSIVE ENTERTAINMENT: "The Year of a Million Dreams" also includes a whole lineup of immersive entertainment that draws guests into the middle of the action. Guests might find themselves living the buccaneer life as a pirate of the Caribbean, "getting royal" with a Disney prince or princess, learning the ways of a Jedi in the Star Wars galaxy, or joining in a high-energy "High School Musical" pep rally.
NEW SHOWS AND ATTRACTIONS: As if thousands of dreams bestowed daily aren't enough, Disney guests will also be treated to new attractions and shows debuting at Walt Disney World and Disneyland resorts as part of "The Year of a Million Dreams":
At Walt Disney World Resort
* "The Seas with Nemo & Friends": Epcot's newest attraction picks up where the Disney-Pixar animated hit "Finding Nemo" left off. The stars of the film appear to swim amid the marine life of the saltwater environment in The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion.
* "Finding Nemo-The Musical": At Disney's Animal Kingdom, the undersea world that charmed audiences worldwide in the Disney-Pixar motion picture "Finding Nemo" will come to life in an all-new, Broadway-caliber musical stage show.
* Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor Comedy Club (Spring 2007): Magic Kingdom guests will laugh, joke, sing songs and match wits with the beloved animated characters from Disney-Pixar's "Monsters, Inc." in an engaging and interactive attraction being created by Disney Imagineers.
* "Dream Along with Mickey": Several times daily, Mickey and friends (and some foes!) treat Magic Kingdom guests to a musical stage show and dreams-inspired celebration on the forecourt stage of Cinderella Castle.
At Disneyland Resort
* Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage (Summer 2007): Inspired by Disney-Pixar's "Finding Nemo," this all-new adventure will take guests on an underwater excursion. Thanks to amazing technology, guests will be treated to a view of Nemo and friends exactly as they appear in the film.
* Rockin' Both Parks (Spring 2007): For 16 weeks (Jan. 3-April 26, 2007), Space Mountain will become a new experience with an all-new soundtrack to fit the exciting twists and turns. Riders of California Screamin' at Disney's California Adventure Park will also be treated to a new, groovin' soundtrack. (Source: Walt Disney World Press Release, 12/08/06)
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PRIORITY SEATING COUPON
Wolfgang Puck Grand Café Downtown Disney
1482 East Buena Vista Drive
Orlando, FL 32830
Phone: 407-938-9653
Fax: 407-934-5389
Ideal place for a casual lunch or dinner overlooking Lake Buena Vista. Enjoy priority seating with this coupon. Valid through 09/30/07.
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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.
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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.
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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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.
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posted by AffordableDisney.Com at 7:57 AM
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