Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
February 28, 2007
Copyright © 1999 - 2007 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
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Hi Everyone!
IMPORTANT NOTE: Deals for the general public at WDW this spring have expired. We hope to have a summer deal for August and September soon. If you want to visit Walt Disney World between now and August, when there is no deal for the general public, you will need to follow the discount strategies that are revealed in our online book, "Secrets To An Affordable Walt Disney World® Vacation," to make your vacation affordable. Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - WDW resort special (for certain groups), Disney cruise special, Vegas special, super-inclusive Caribbean holiday packages, 3 repositioning cruises, and over 20 cruise specials to Europe, South America, Hawaii, and more!
* The latest news from around the "World" - Disney creates new Fairy Tale Wedding Gown Collection
* Family Digest Gospel Idol Contest at Walt Disney World
* Disney announces two new ships to be added to fleet
* ESPN the Weekend coming to WDW March 2-4
* This week's coupon - save at Kids Night Out, a popular childcare service for Disney and other area hotels
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
We now list 26 Sweepstakes to win a Walt Disney World/Florida/Disneyland/Southern California vacation!
These groups can book the Disney resorts April 15 to June 2 and save up to $100 per night!
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
Catch this Early Bird Special for Disney's Repositioning Cruise to the West Coast! Children as low as $99!
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VEGAS
Stay at this luxury resort & casino from $79 per night! Includes Room Upgrade, 2 FREE Drinks, 2-for-1 Breakfast, 2-for-1 Lunch, Admission for 2 to the Spa, and more!
Offer available February 1 - May 31, 2007. Must book by March 14, 2007.
--------------------------------
OTHER VACATION SPECIALS
Super-Inclusive Holiday Packages That Encompass Everything In One Up-Front Price!
Pay one low rate and choose ANY room category for travel this Fall! Hurry, the best suites and rooms will sell out fast! For travel 08/15 - 11/30/07 (blackout dates apply). Booking Period: 02/18/07 - 04/30/07. Sample rates per night per person, double occupancy:
Jamaica $38
Dominican Republic $65
Curacao $115
Brazil $115
Bahamas $145
Everything you can eat, drink, and do is included in one simple upfront price. And tipping is simply not permitted!
--------------------------------
CRUISE SPECIALS - It's cruise season again!
Repositioning Cruises in April at Amazing Prices!
Prices are per person, double occupancy:
Florida to England: 12 nights from $549!
Texas to Spain: 13 nights from $499!
Louisiana to Puerto Rico: 7 nights from $399!
Beth writes: "I've long said that repositioning cruises are the best vacation value you can find. These are one-way cruise itineraries that position a ship in a different part of the world. They generally are 10 or more nights long and stop very few places - but if you love the cruise experience itself and you're on a good ship then it really doesn't matter if the ship goes into port or not!"
--------------------------------
HUGE Cruise Special! This Thursday, March 1, you'll save big and receive a FREE upgrade to the best available stateroom when you book virtually any 2007 sailing!
Big savings and upgrades on:
* 3 & 4 Day Cruises from $249!
* 5 Day Cruises from $299!
* 7 Day Cruises from $499!
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Plus! 11 Caribbean Cruise Specials!
Sample rate: 7 nights from $449 per person, double occupancy! Specials run March 24 - June 24.
--------------------------------
Plus! 3-day sale on 7- to 28-Day Cruises in 2007 to:
Alaska
Asia
Mexico
Canada & New England
Caribbean
Panama Canal
Europe
South America
Hawaii
South Pacific & New Zealand
From $449 per person, double occupancy!
1- to 4-Day Pacific Coast Cruises from $69!
Hurry! You must book by March 2, 2007.
=================================================
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
>> Exclusively from one of our providers: UK visitors get their 6th Night FREE when they stay at the Walt Disney World Resorts! Valid all 2007 and, the last time I checked, includes Christmas and New Year's Eve!
>> FREE meals for Kids at these resorts on Disney property!
>> 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
>> These groups get a FREE year's admission to the Kennedy Space Center!
>> Book 4 nights and get the 5th Night FREE at any Universal Orlando onsite hotel! Plus, receive a FREE room upgrade!
>> UK residents save 45% on tickets to this theme park!
>> This group saves $80.00 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!
>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69!
>> 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!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Kids fly FREE to Disneyland! A family of four can save $700.00 on airfare!
>> Book 2 nights at Universal Studios Hollywood and receive the 3rd night FREE! Plus! Enjoy a 2nd day admission to Universal Studios Hollywood for FREE!
>> This group gets a 2-Day Park Hopper for the Price of One!
>> 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!
>> 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
>> Receive a FREE rental car upgrade in more than 45 European countries through March 31!
>> 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 luxury resort & casino from $79 per night! Includes Room Upgrade, 2 FREE Drinks, 2-for-1 Breakfast, 2-for-1 Lunch, Admission for 2 to the Spa, and more!
>>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
>> 14 cruise specials to Alaska, Canada, South Pacific, Southeast Asia, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Caribbean, South America, Africa and the Indian Ocean!
>> 7-night Caribbean Cruises starting at $649 for Thanksgiving 2007!
>> Cruises to Europe and the Caribbean from $599 per person!
>> Inexpensive Shore Excursions and Tours!
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OTHER VACATION SPECIALS
>> Kids Sail FREE to Bermuda! Adult rates from $299 per person!
>> Save almost 50% on packages at Catalina Island, off the coast of California!
>> Beau Rivage Hotel and Casino - Biloxi, MS from $99 per night!
>> 5-night vacation in Helsinki, Finland from $599!
>> Travel to this Tropical Island and get a FREE passport!
>> 4-Night vacation package to Dominican Republic includes round-trip airfare and hotel accommodations FROMM $777!
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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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Some guests turn down the opportunity to spend the night at Cinderella's castle. "'Sometimes, believe it or not, which I can't understand, people say, 'Nah, I'm leaving tomorrow or I don't want to move my stuff . . .'" said Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Jay Rasulo. 'We have had some guests for whatever reason say that they couldn't do it, so we go to the next person.'" (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 02/28/07)
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"The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will be back at Disney's Wide World of Sports this summer, according to a statement released by Disney World." The public is invited to visit the camp at no charge. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 02/22/07)
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Disney's Fairy Tale Wedding Gown Collection
"The company is using its stable of imaginary princesses as inspiration for a new line of wedding gowns. Disney and bridal designer Kirstie Kelly have developed a line of ethereal gowns that pay homage to Cinderella, Jasmine, Snow White, Ariel and Sleeping Beauty."
Facts:
* Gowns will cost $1,100 to $2,900
* Solutions Bridal in Winter Park will be the first to sell the gowns
* The collection will include 34 gowns
* Dresses for bridesmaids and flower-girls will be added later
* Jewelry goes on sale in October
* Shops in Orlando and Southern California will sell the gowns in June
* Disney will eventually market the collection in other boutiques in the US and Japan (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 02/23/07)
Click here for an article on the Solutions Bridal Designer House in Winter Park.
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Here's the recipe for Cream of Mushroom Soup at 1900 Park Fare at Disney's Grand Floridian.
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High School Musical Pep Rally is now playing on the parade routes on select days at MGM Studios at Walt Disney World and Disneyland's California Adventure. "Guests can shoot hoops with the Wildcats (with lightweight inflatable basketballs, to keep bystanders from getting caught in the cross fire) and show their best dance-floor moves... We also encourage family and friends of all ages to join us on the parade route and learn some Wildcat moves during the all-out dance finale." (Source: disney.go.com/, 02/22/07)
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Downtown Orlando's Church Street Station Entertainment and Shopping Complex Declares Bankruptcy
"With Church Street Station in bankruptcy, Lou Pearlman's once-blooming Orlando business empire appeared all but abandoned Wednesday. Pearlman and his executives have left, and numerous businesses that were headquartered at his Trans Continental Enterprises downtown have largely been turned over to court-appointed authorities." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 02/22/07)
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
"An idea to build a transit line stretching from Disneyland to Huntington Beach could gain some momentum today. Officials from five cities in north and west Orange County are hoping to score up to $250,000 in grant money from the Orange County Transportation Authority to study the possibility of a transit service connecting the tourist destinations, possibly along an existing railroad corridor."
(Source: ocregister.com, 02/26/07)
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NESTLE NESQUIK Selected for Disneyland Resort's Healthy Eating Initiative
More kids are sporting milk mustaches with their mouse ears at the Disneyland Resort, where NESTLE NESQUIK Chocolate and Strawberry 100 percent flavored milks are featured as part of the Walt Disney Company's healthy eating initiative. In conjunction with new food guidelines unveiled last fall to give parents and children healthier eating options, restaurants at the Disneyland Resort now automatically offer NESTLE NESQUIK Chocolate and Strawberry 100 percent flavored milk or water, 100 percent fruit juice or plain low-fat milk as beverages with kids' meals. (Source: Press Release, 02/26/07)
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Disney's California Food & Wine Weekends will take place every weekend April 27 to May 20, 2007. See Disney's site for details.
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"Two women suffered head injuries late Friday after tumbling off a tram in a Disneyland parking lot, an incident the state has no authority to investigate because the shuttle is not an amusement park ride, Anaheim officials said."
(Source: latimes.com, 02/25/07)
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Disneyland Resort Calendar
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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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Family Digest GOSPEL IDOL Contest Drawing Record Number of Entries
Competition Being Held May 27th at Walt Disney World
Family Digest Magazine and The Family Digest TV Show is searching for the next big gospel performer, group or choir. The GOSPEL IDOL competition will uncover this talented individual or group on May 27th at Walt Disney World Resort as part of the Family Digest Power of Family Get Together. The competition will be broadcast on The Family Digest TV Show, and seen by millions in the U.S. and internationally.
"The GOSPEL IDOL Contest is similar to other highly promoted and televised talent shows except that it's all about talent and soul," said Susan Benjamin, executive producer of The Family Digest TV Show.
"Gospel music originated in the early African-American church and expresses the heart of the African American experience and the strength of the Black family in the United States. So, it is only fitting that Family Digest -- Black America's number one family and relationship brand -- would be looking for the next big gospel or choir sensation," said Darryl Mobley, creator and host of The Family Digest TV Show and the GOSPEL IDOL competition.
"As a kid," continued Mobley, "I remember spending Sundays at church and how the music moved us all. It was electrifying. I remember Sam Cooke, Al Green, The Mighty Clouds of Joy ... They were entertainers who brought us music with a message that had its roots in the church. We rocked to their music, but we learned life lessons too. Our community, and our country, needs more positive messages. Gospel -- a genre that has transcended all limitations -- is the perfect vehicle to bring us the messages that lift us higher. The GOSPEL IDOL competition will bring the artists and the music to the world stage."
"We are receiving entries from gospel performers from all over the world. We will select from among all entries received. I suggest that all performers looking for their time to shine, get us their entry as quickly as possible," stated Benjamin.
The competition will be decided through a combination of expert judging and audience voting. The winning groups will appear on The Family Digest TV Show and in Family Digest Magazine, and receive other valuable prizes and awards.
If you are in a gospel group or choir or you are a gospel singer, or if you know of a good group, choir or singer at your church or elsewhere -- this could be your or their big chance. Make sure you get every gospel group and choir you know to enter now by going online to http://www.FamilyDigestShow.com and clicking on the GOSPEL IDOL banner, located on the right side of the page, for more information. Entries are limited, so early sign-up is suggested. (Source: Press Release, 02/21/07)
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Disney Announces Expansion of Successful Cruise Business
Two New Ships Will More Than Double Passenger Capacity
The Walt Disney Company plans to expand its successful cruise business by adding two new ocean liners, President and CEO Bob Iger announced today. Scheduled to launch in 2011 and 2012, the ships will more than double the passenger capacity for Disney Cruise Line to meet the sustained demand for Disney's family cruise vacations.
The company signed a letter of intent with Meyer Werft shipyard, based in Papenburg, Germany, to negotiate a contract to build the 122,000-ton new cruise liners, which will be two decks taller than the existing 83,000-ton ships, the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder. Each ship will have 1,250 staterooms. Specific design plans and itineraries for the yet-unnamed ships are still in development and will be unveiled at a later date.
"Since our maiden voyage in 1998, Disney Cruise Line has been a huge success for our guests and for our shareholders alike," Iger said. "It has brought our unparalleled family vacation experience to the high seas, and has also generated high margins and double digit returns on invested capital. We're excited to announce the expansion of our fleet, which is a logical next step in what is a real growth business for us."
Disney Cruise Line established the family market within the cruise industry when the business launched in 1998. The first two ships were purpose built for families to reconnect and recharge while creating vacation memories that will last a lifetime. From a theater featuring live musical spectaculars to a luxurious spa for adults and nearly an entire deck dedicated to children's activities, the ships offer something for every member of the family. Disney Cruise Line continues to grow by attracting passengers who say they would not have cruised if it hadn't been for the Disney brand.
"Focusing on families has been smart business for us," said Jay Rasulo, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "More than 95 percent of Disney Cruise Line guests rate their cruise experience as excellent or very good. Families know they can trust us to provide a quality, immersive Disney experience. As a result, Disney Cruise Line continually sets sail with the highest load factors in the industry of nearly 150 percent."
Similar to the original Disney Cruise Line ships, the new ships will be a modern interpretation of classic ocean liners of the 1930s. Disney Imagineers drew their inspiration from the original trans-Atlantic ships that featured a dramatic black hull with two funnels and porthole windows. The profile of the ships, with its gentle curves at the stern combined with sleek angles at the bow, are reminiscent of the art deco designs of the era. To add whimsy to the classic design, the Disney ships have the same exterior color palette as Mickey Mouse with black, white, red and yellow. The new ships will feature elegant, detailed Disney scrollwork at the bow and will evoke images of the glamour of the golden age of cruising.
Tom McAlpin, the President of Disney Cruise Line, said, "This is an exciting time for Disney Cruise Line, and we are looking forward to working with Meyer Werft to blend our innovation and creativity with their fine craftsmanship. Meyer Werft has a long tradition of building magnificent ships. We are confident that the result will be ships that take the immersive Disney family-focused cruise experience to an entirely new level."
New itineraries
Disney Cruise Line, which traditionally offers 3-, 4- and 7-night Caribbean cruises, has also enjoyed strong demand for new itineraries. Trips to the Mediterranean and to the West Coast have recently set booking records within the company and booked 30-50 percent faster than the existing itineraries at higher prices.
"With a larger fleet, we'll have greater flexibility to offer a variety of itineraries," Rasulo said. "This is a business that our guests love, and we're pleased to give them more options to explore the world with Disney with two new ships." (Source: Press Release, 02/22/07)
Click here for a related article by the Orlando Sentinel.
FYI...
Never taken a cruise before? Click here for tips for the first-timer.
Plan your shore excursions before you set sail. Click here for some helpful advice.
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ESPN the Weekend Coming to WDW March 2-4
ESPN The Weekend Presented by Dick's Sporting Goods -- the fourth annual ESPN special event at Disney-MGM Studios at Walt Disney World Resort -- will give sports fans the opportunity to see many of their favorite athletes and ESPN personalities up-close and personal March 2-4.
More than 30 world-class athletes, representing MLB, NBA, NFL, the Olympics and the world of action sports are scheduled to appear...
ESPN The Weekend will feature on-site ESPN telecasts including SportsCenter, Baseball Tonight and Cold Pizza; star motorcades and Q&A sessions featuring athletes and ESPN personalities; sports shows in the ESPN Theater with ESPN personalities and athletes; live ESPN Radio broadcasts; and the ESPN Sports Zone interactive area, including an ESPN Play Your Way playground, The ESPN DIRECTV Experience, and a BMX stunt show by X Games gold medalist Scotty Cranmer as part of X Games consumer products Super Freestyle Tour. Guests will also be able to enjoy all the popular shows and attractions, including "Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show." (Source: Press Release, 02/23/07)
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MONEY SAVING COUPON
Kids Night Out
1375 E. Buena Vista Drive
Team Disney - 1South Bldg
Orlando, FL 32830
Phone: 407-828-0920 / 800-696-8105
Fax: 407-828-0918
"Orlando’s premier childcare provider for Walt Disney World and more than 120 hotels and resorts in the central Florida area." Get $5.00 off in-room childcare service with this coupon.
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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.
Order Today and Get $10 Off and a Free $25 Restaurant Certificate!
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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.
=============================================
February 28, 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: Deals for the general public at WDW this spring have expired. We hope to have a summer deal for August and September soon. If you want to visit Walt Disney World between now and August, when there is no deal for the general public, you will need to follow the discount strategies that are revealed in our online book, "Secrets To An Affordable Walt Disney World® Vacation," to make your vacation affordable. Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - WDW resort special (for certain groups), Disney cruise special, Vegas special, super-inclusive Caribbean holiday packages, 3 repositioning cruises, and over 20 cruise specials to Europe, South America, Hawaii, and more!
* The latest news from around the "World" - Disney creates new Fairy Tale Wedding Gown Collection
* Family Digest Gospel Idol Contest at Walt Disney World
* Disney announces two new ships to be added to fleet
* ESPN the Weekend coming to WDW March 2-4
* This week's coupon - save at Kids Night Out, a popular childcare service for Disney and other area hotels
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
We now list 26 Sweepstakes to win a Walt Disney World/Florida/Disneyland/Southern California vacation!
These groups can book the Disney resorts April 15 to June 2 and save up to $100 per night!
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
Catch this Early Bird Special for Disney's Repositioning Cruise to the West Coast! Children as low as $99!
--------------------------------
VEGAS
Stay at this luxury resort & casino from $79 per night! Includes Room Upgrade, 2 FREE Drinks, 2-for-1 Breakfast, 2-for-1 Lunch, Admission for 2 to the Spa, and more!
Offer available February 1 - May 31, 2007. Must book by March 14, 2007.
--------------------------------
OTHER VACATION SPECIALS
Super-Inclusive Holiday Packages That Encompass Everything In One Up-Front Price!
Pay one low rate and choose ANY room category for travel this Fall! Hurry, the best suites and rooms will sell out fast! For travel 08/15 - 11/30/07 (blackout dates apply). Booking Period: 02/18/07 - 04/30/07. Sample rates per night per person, double occupancy:
Jamaica $38
Dominican Republic $65
Curacao $115
Brazil $115
Bahamas $145
Everything you can eat, drink, and do is included in one simple upfront price. And tipping is simply not permitted!
--------------------------------
CRUISE SPECIALS - It's cruise season again!
Repositioning Cruises in April at Amazing Prices!
Prices are per person, double occupancy:
Florida to England: 12 nights from $549!
Texas to Spain: 13 nights from $499!
Louisiana to Puerto Rico: 7 nights from $399!
Beth writes: "I've long said that repositioning cruises are the best vacation value you can find. These are one-way cruise itineraries that position a ship in a different part of the world. They generally are 10 or more nights long and stop very few places - but if you love the cruise experience itself and you're on a good ship then it really doesn't matter if the ship goes into port or not!"
--------------------------------
HUGE Cruise Special! This Thursday, March 1, you'll save big and receive a FREE upgrade to the best available stateroom when you book virtually any 2007 sailing!
Big savings and upgrades on:
* 3 & 4 Day Cruises from $249!
* 5 Day Cruises from $299!
* 7 Day Cruises from $499!
--------------------------------
Plus! 11 Caribbean Cruise Specials!
Sample rate: 7 nights from $449 per person, double occupancy! Specials run March 24 - June 24.
--------------------------------
Plus! 3-day sale on 7- to 28-Day Cruises in 2007 to:
Alaska
Asia
Mexico
Canada & New England
Caribbean
Panama Canal
Europe
South America
Hawaii
South Pacific & New Zealand
From $449 per person, double occupancy!
1- to 4-Day Pacific Coast Cruises from $69!
Hurry! You must book by March 2, 2007.
=================================================
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
>> Exclusively from one of our providers: UK visitors get their 6th Night FREE when they stay at the Walt Disney World Resorts! Valid all 2007 and, the last time I checked, includes Christmas and New Year's Eve!
>> FREE meals for Kids at these resorts on Disney property!
>> 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
>> These groups get a FREE year's admission to the Kennedy Space Center!
>> Book 4 nights and get the 5th Night FREE at any Universal Orlando onsite hotel! Plus, receive a FREE room upgrade!
>> UK residents save 45% on tickets to this theme park!
>> This group saves $80.00 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!
>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69!
>> 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!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Kids fly FREE to Disneyland! A family of four can save $700.00 on airfare!
>> Book 2 nights at Universal Studios Hollywood and receive the 3rd night FREE! Plus! Enjoy a 2nd day admission to Universal Studios Hollywood for FREE!
>> This group gets a 2-Day Park Hopper for the Price of One!
>> 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!
>> 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!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Receive a FREE rental car upgrade in more than 45 European countries through March 31!
>> 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 luxury resort & casino from $79 per night! Includes Room Upgrade, 2 FREE Drinks, 2-for-1 Breakfast, 2-for-1 Lunch, Admission for 2 to the Spa, and more!
>>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
>> 14 cruise specials to Alaska, Canada, South Pacific, Southeast Asia, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Caribbean, South America, Africa and the Indian Ocean!
>> 7-night Caribbean Cruises starting at $649 for Thanksgiving 2007!
>> Cruises to Europe and the Caribbean from $599 per person!
>> Inexpensive Shore Excursions and Tours!
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OTHER VACATION SPECIALS
>> Kids Sail FREE to Bermuda! Adult rates from $299 per person!
>> Save almost 50% on packages at Catalina Island, off the coast of California!
>> Beau Rivage Hotel and Casino - Biloxi, MS from $99 per night!
>> 5-night vacation in Helsinki, Finland from $599!
>> Travel to this Tropical Island and get a FREE passport!
>> 4-Night vacation package to Dominican Republic includes round-trip airfare and hotel accommodations FROMM $777!
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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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Some guests turn down the opportunity to spend the night at Cinderella's castle. "'Sometimes, believe it or not, which I can't understand, people say, 'Nah, I'm leaving tomorrow or I don't want to move my stuff . . .'" said Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Jay Rasulo. 'We have had some guests for whatever reason say that they couldn't do it, so we go to the next person.'" (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 02/28/07)
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"The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will be back at Disney's Wide World of Sports this summer, according to a statement released by Disney World." The public is invited to visit the camp at no charge. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 02/22/07)
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Disney's Fairy Tale Wedding Gown Collection
"The company is using its stable of imaginary princesses as inspiration for a new line of wedding gowns. Disney and bridal designer Kirstie Kelly have developed a line of ethereal gowns that pay homage to Cinderella, Jasmine, Snow White, Ariel and Sleeping Beauty."
Facts:
* Gowns will cost $1,100 to $2,900
* Solutions Bridal in Winter Park will be the first to sell the gowns
* The collection will include 34 gowns
* Dresses for bridesmaids and flower-girls will be added later
* Jewelry goes on sale in October
* Shops in Orlando and Southern California will sell the gowns in June
* Disney will eventually market the collection in other boutiques in the US and Japan (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 02/23/07)
Click here for an article on the Solutions Bridal Designer House in Winter Park.
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Here's the recipe for Cream of Mushroom Soup at 1900 Park Fare at Disney's Grand Floridian.
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High School Musical Pep Rally is now playing on the parade routes on select days at MGM Studios at Walt Disney World and Disneyland's California Adventure. "Guests can shoot hoops with the Wildcats (with lightweight inflatable basketballs, to keep bystanders from getting caught in the cross fire) and show their best dance-floor moves... We also encourage family and friends of all ages to join us on the parade route and learn some Wildcat moves during the all-out dance finale." (Source: disney.go.com/, 02/22/07)
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Downtown Orlando's Church Street Station Entertainment and Shopping Complex Declares Bankruptcy
"With Church Street Station in bankruptcy, Lou Pearlman's once-blooming Orlando business empire appeared all but abandoned Wednesday. Pearlman and his executives have left, and numerous businesses that were headquartered at his Trans Continental Enterprises downtown have largely been turned over to court-appointed authorities." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 02/22/07)
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
"An idea to build a transit line stretching from Disneyland to Huntington Beach could gain some momentum today. Officials from five cities in north and west Orange County are hoping to score up to $250,000 in grant money from the Orange County Transportation Authority to study the possibility of a transit service connecting the tourist destinations, possibly along an existing railroad corridor."
(Source: ocregister.com, 02/26/07)
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NESTLE NESQUIK Selected for Disneyland Resort's Healthy Eating Initiative
More kids are sporting milk mustaches with their mouse ears at the Disneyland Resort, where NESTLE NESQUIK Chocolate and Strawberry 100 percent flavored milks are featured as part of the Walt Disney Company's healthy eating initiative. In conjunction with new food guidelines unveiled last fall to give parents and children healthier eating options, restaurants at the Disneyland Resort now automatically offer NESTLE NESQUIK Chocolate and Strawberry 100 percent flavored milk or water, 100 percent fruit juice or plain low-fat milk as beverages with kids' meals. (Source: Press Release, 02/26/07)
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Disney's California Food & Wine Weekends will take place every weekend April 27 to May 20, 2007. See Disney's site for details.
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"Two women suffered head injuries late Friday after tumbling off a tram in a Disneyland parking lot, an incident the state has no authority to investigate because the shuttle is not an amusement park ride, Anaheim officials said."
(Source: latimes.com, 02/25/07)
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Disneyland Resort Calendar
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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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Family Digest GOSPEL IDOL Contest Drawing Record Number of Entries
Competition Being Held May 27th at Walt Disney World
Family Digest Magazine and The Family Digest TV Show is searching for the next big gospel performer, group or choir. The GOSPEL IDOL competition will uncover this talented individual or group on May 27th at Walt Disney World Resort as part of the Family Digest Power of Family Get Together. The competition will be broadcast on The Family Digest TV Show, and seen by millions in the U.S. and internationally.
"The GOSPEL IDOL Contest is similar to other highly promoted and televised talent shows except that it's all about talent and soul," said Susan Benjamin, executive producer of The Family Digest TV Show.
"Gospel music originated in the early African-American church and expresses the heart of the African American experience and the strength of the Black family in the United States. So, it is only fitting that Family Digest -- Black America's number one family and relationship brand -- would be looking for the next big gospel or choir sensation," said Darryl Mobley, creator and host of The Family Digest TV Show and the GOSPEL IDOL competition.
"As a kid," continued Mobley, "I remember spending Sundays at church and how the music moved us all. It was electrifying. I remember Sam Cooke, Al Green, The Mighty Clouds of Joy ... They were entertainers who brought us music with a message that had its roots in the church. We rocked to their music, but we learned life lessons too. Our community, and our country, needs more positive messages. Gospel -- a genre that has transcended all limitations -- is the perfect vehicle to bring us the messages that lift us higher. The GOSPEL IDOL competition will bring the artists and the music to the world stage."
"We are receiving entries from gospel performers from all over the world. We will select from among all entries received. I suggest that all performers looking for their time to shine, get us their entry as quickly as possible," stated Benjamin.
The competition will be decided through a combination of expert judging and audience voting. The winning groups will appear on The Family Digest TV Show and in Family Digest Magazine, and receive other valuable prizes and awards.
If you are in a gospel group or choir or you are a gospel singer, or if you know of a good group, choir or singer at your church or elsewhere -- this could be your or their big chance. Make sure you get every gospel group and choir you know to enter now by going online to http://www.FamilyDigestShow.com and clicking on the GOSPEL IDOL banner, located on the right side of the page, for more information. Entries are limited, so early sign-up is suggested. (Source: Press Release, 02/21/07)
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Disney Announces Expansion of Successful Cruise Business
Two New Ships Will More Than Double Passenger Capacity
The Walt Disney Company plans to expand its successful cruise business by adding two new ocean liners, President and CEO Bob Iger announced today. Scheduled to launch in 2011 and 2012, the ships will more than double the passenger capacity for Disney Cruise Line to meet the sustained demand for Disney's family cruise vacations.
The company signed a letter of intent with Meyer Werft shipyard, based in Papenburg, Germany, to negotiate a contract to build the 122,000-ton new cruise liners, which will be two decks taller than the existing 83,000-ton ships, the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder. Each ship will have 1,250 staterooms. Specific design plans and itineraries for the yet-unnamed ships are still in development and will be unveiled at a later date.
"Since our maiden voyage in 1998, Disney Cruise Line has been a huge success for our guests and for our shareholders alike," Iger said. "It has brought our unparalleled family vacation experience to the high seas, and has also generated high margins and double digit returns on invested capital. We're excited to announce the expansion of our fleet, which is a logical next step in what is a real growth business for us."
Disney Cruise Line established the family market within the cruise industry when the business launched in 1998. The first two ships were purpose built for families to reconnect and recharge while creating vacation memories that will last a lifetime. From a theater featuring live musical spectaculars to a luxurious spa for adults and nearly an entire deck dedicated to children's activities, the ships offer something for every member of the family. Disney Cruise Line continues to grow by attracting passengers who say they would not have cruised if it hadn't been for the Disney brand.
"Focusing on families has been smart business for us," said Jay Rasulo, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "More than 95 percent of Disney Cruise Line guests rate their cruise experience as excellent or very good. Families know they can trust us to provide a quality, immersive Disney experience. As a result, Disney Cruise Line continually sets sail with the highest load factors in the industry of nearly 150 percent."
Similar to the original Disney Cruise Line ships, the new ships will be a modern interpretation of classic ocean liners of the 1930s. Disney Imagineers drew their inspiration from the original trans-Atlantic ships that featured a dramatic black hull with two funnels and porthole windows. The profile of the ships, with its gentle curves at the stern combined with sleek angles at the bow, are reminiscent of the art deco designs of the era. To add whimsy to the classic design, the Disney ships have the same exterior color palette as Mickey Mouse with black, white, red and yellow. The new ships will feature elegant, detailed Disney scrollwork at the bow and will evoke images of the glamour of the golden age of cruising.
Tom McAlpin, the President of Disney Cruise Line, said, "This is an exciting time for Disney Cruise Line, and we are looking forward to working with Meyer Werft to blend our innovation and creativity with their fine craftsmanship. Meyer Werft has a long tradition of building magnificent ships. We are confident that the result will be ships that take the immersive Disney family-focused cruise experience to an entirely new level."
New itineraries
Disney Cruise Line, which traditionally offers 3-, 4- and 7-night Caribbean cruises, has also enjoyed strong demand for new itineraries. Trips to the Mediterranean and to the West Coast have recently set booking records within the company and booked 30-50 percent faster than the existing itineraries at higher prices.
"With a larger fleet, we'll have greater flexibility to offer a variety of itineraries," Rasulo said. "This is a business that our guests love, and we're pleased to give them more options to explore the world with Disney with two new ships." (Source: Press Release, 02/22/07)
Click here for a related article by the Orlando Sentinel.
FYI...
Never taken a cruise before? Click here for tips for the first-timer.
Plan your shore excursions before you set sail. Click here for some helpful advice.
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ESPN the Weekend Coming to WDW March 2-4
ESPN The Weekend Presented by Dick's Sporting Goods -- the fourth annual ESPN special event at Disney-MGM Studios at Walt Disney World Resort -- will give sports fans the opportunity to see many of their favorite athletes and ESPN personalities up-close and personal March 2-4.
More than 30 world-class athletes, representing MLB, NBA, NFL, the Olympics and the world of action sports are scheduled to appear...
ESPN The Weekend will feature on-site ESPN telecasts including SportsCenter, Baseball Tonight and Cold Pizza; star motorcades and Q&A sessions featuring athletes and ESPN personalities; sports shows in the ESPN Theater with ESPN personalities and athletes; live ESPN Radio broadcasts; and the ESPN Sports Zone interactive area, including an ESPN Play Your Way playground, The ESPN DIRECTV Experience, and a BMX stunt show by X Games gold medalist Scotty Cranmer as part of X Games consumer products Super Freestyle Tour. Guests will also be able to enjoy all the popular shows and attractions, including "Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show." (Source: Press Release, 02/23/07)
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MONEY SAVING COUPON
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Phone: 407-828-0920 / 800-696-8105
Fax: 407-828-0918
"Orlando’s premier childcare provider for Walt Disney World and more than 120 hotels and resorts in the central Florida area." Get $5.00 off in-room childcare service with this coupon.
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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Don't Leave Home Without It!
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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.
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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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posted by AffordableDisney.Com at 6:05 AM
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