Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
June 13, 2007
Copyright © 1999 - 2007 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
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Hi Everyone!
Disney rarely offers deals to the general public during its busiest seasons: Spring Break, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's and Easter. If you want to visit Walt Disney World 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 - Universal Orlando ticket special, Universal Orlando room special, Universal Halloween Special, 2nd day FREE at this popular park, FREE night and FREE second day at Universal Hollywood, $25 dining certificates for $5, 22 Disney cruise specials, and a Caribbean cruise from $549 + Kids FREE!
* The latest news from around the "World" - Disney closes The Haunted Mansion for rehab!
* Beth writes about the Fed's recent announcement regarding passports
* Florida’s original scream machine is set to open June 30 at Cypress Gardens
* Howl-O-Scream is back for an eighth season at Busch Gardens
* Disneyland California adds magical "8th Day" to the week
* Disney announces dates and ticket prices for Pirates and Princess Party, Night of Joy, Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
* This week's coupon - save at this popular Pizza Buffet in Orlando
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NEW THIS WEEK
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
* Universal Ticket Special: This group can purchase four (4) 2-Day / 2-Park Tickets & receive one (1) additional 2-Day / 2-Park Ticket FREE! Plus, receive three (3) additional days for FREE, for a total of five (5) consecutive days of admission.
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* Universal Room Special: This group can book a vacation to Universal Orlando and receive the 5th Night FREE at any Universal Orlando onsite hotel! Plus, receive a FREE room upgrade with your vacation package!
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* Universal Halloween Special: Starting from only $199 per adult. Your vacation includes:
>> Two (2) night hotel accommodations at a Universal Partner Hotel
>> 1-Night Halloween Horror Nights ticket, PLUS 2-Park Unlimited Admission combo ticket valid at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure
>> One (1) souvenir photograph
>> Complimentary scheduled transportation to Universal Orlando Resort
>> Free access to live entertainment at Universal CityWalk®
>> Discounts on shopping & dining throughout Universal Orlando.
Halloween Horror Nights: Sept. 28-29, Oct. 4-7, 11-14, 18-21, 24-28, 31, Nov. 1-3
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* Enjoy a Second Day FREE at this popular Orlando park!
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* Discounts at Restaurants near Disney! Now you can buy money saving dining certificates to restaurants in Orlando and all across the US. And here's a great way to celebrate Father's Day and not break the bank: Get $25 dining certificates for only $5! Plus, you'll also get a FREE $15 Lobster Gram Credit with every order of $50 or more so you can treat Dad (or yourself) to even more! Hurry! The dining certificate promotion expires 06/17/07. The Lobster Gram promotion code expires 06/30/07.
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Universal Studios Hollywood Offer: This group can book a vacation for 2 nights and receive the 3rd night FREE at the Sportsmen's Lodge from November 1, 2006 - March 31, 2007. Plus! Enjoy a 2nd Day FREE at Universal Studios Hollywood! Add the following items to complete your ideal Hollywood Getaway:
* 1 lunch or dinner at Hard Rock Cafe® or Shanghai & Mein, Noodles & DimSum®
* Movie Stars Homes' Tour with Transportation from your Hollywood Area Hotel
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
22 Disney Cruise Specials for July, August and September, 2007 starting at $389!
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CARIBBEAN CRUISE SPECIAL
Get an Oceanview Cabin for the price of an Inside Cabin + Kids FREE! Rates start as low as $549 plus kids 17 and under traveling with two adults in the same stateroom sail FREE!
=================================================
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
>> Several ways to win a Walt Disney World/Florida vacation!
>> Late Summer Special! FREE dining at Walt Disney World! Save $38.00 per adult and $11.00 per child per day!
>> 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 $100.00 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 30% at Universal's Portofino, Hard Rock and These teachers receive a FREE ticket to both Universal Orlando theme parks
>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69
>> This group saves $80.00 on day visits to SeaWorld's Discovery Cove
>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure for less than $20
>> 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 $499!
>> Four nights from $539!
>> Seven nights Land & Sea from $899!
>> This group receives a $50 onboard credit!
>> Discounts for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Win a Disneyland/Southern California vacation!
>> Fourth Night Free at Disneyland Good Neighbor Hotels!
>> Kids fly FREE to Disneyland! A family of four can save $700.00 on airfare!
>> Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!
>> Stay one night get one night FREE!
>> Kids under 7 stay FREE!
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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!
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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.
--------------------------------
CRUISES
>> Cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska, South America, Mediterranean, South Africa, and Europe up to 50% off!
>> Inexpensive Shore Excursions and Tours!
--------------------------------
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
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"I'm amazed it's taken Disney so long to get into the wedding racket, and that the price of the gowns is not completely ridiculous. The typical American bride spends $1,505 on her dress, while the princess gowns cost between $1,100 and $3,400. Three grand may seem like a lot of money for a dress that'll be worn for one day, but let's face it: Elegance may characterize the Disney princesses; frugality does not." (Source: philly.com, 06/10/07)
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"Two people from Connecticut were abducted from [Downtown] Disney and then robbed at gunpoint before being dropped at a landfill." (Source: wftv.com, 06/11/07)
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The Haunted Mansion at Disney's Magic Kingdom is closed now through mid-September! "Disney plans its first major overhaul of the popular Humor-driven attraction this summer, including technology updates and a few new ghosts." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 06/09/07)
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Annual Passholders and a guest are invited Friday, July 13, 2007, to attend a behind-the-scenes exploration of the Tower of Terror from 10:30 PM until midnight. AP holders should see their Disney mailer or log in to Disney's AP site for reservation information.
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"Zowie! Stan Lee, the creator of such comic-book superheroes as Spider-Man and X-Men, has signed an exclusive content deal with Walt Disney Studios... Under the multiyear agreement, the studio gets first shot at films, TV shows, books and video games devised by the 84-year-old Lee and his company, POW! Entertainment." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 06/06/07)
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"Unions representing about one-third of Walt Disney World's work force approved a three-year contract late Wednesday... Still, the large number of votes against the contract shows many workers remain unhappy." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 06/07/07)
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
"Universal Orlando is offering its new 'Hydro Action Ski Show' starting this weekend on the Islands of Adventure lagoon -- the first time that a daytime entertainment has been staged there."
"Florida's tallest roller coaster, SheiKra, reopens this weekend, now that Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has stripped the floors out of the coaster's cars."
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 06/11/07)
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Making "Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage" accessible to the disabled
"The theater has benches and spaces for wheelchairs that can accommodate about 10 people. People with hearing loss are given hand-held captioning units." Disney also widened the caves at Tom Sawyer Island for wheelchairs and made the restrooms accessible to the handicapped." (Source: timesunion.com, 06/12/07)
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It's not easy being green...
"Some visitors have complained the smell of the trains now isn't the way they remember it: the biodiesel smells somehow like French fries and they miss the diesel smell. But Dela Vara says, their kids will grow up making memories here with the French-fry smell." (Source: msnbc.msn.com, 06/11/07)
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"After nearly 10 years, Disneyland's classic Submarine Voyage was resurrected from the deep today. Reinvented as the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage... [but] the area of the theme park containing the ride - which Walt Disney himself helped conceive - was nearly paved over." (Source: latimes.com, 06/11/07)
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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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Beth, our travel agent, writes about the Federal Government's recent announcement regarding passports:
"VERY IMPORTANT... Currently, if you FLY to/from the Caribbean/Bermuda/Canada/Mexico you need to have a passport. This rule went into effect in January. As expected, the time it takes to get a passport processed has at least doubled. Starting January 2008 you will need a passport to CRUISE to/from these places as well. If you think that there is the slightest chance that you and/or a family member will EVER be flying, driving or cruising outside the United States **NOW** is the time to be applying for a passport. Remember: The best deals often pop up within 60 days of travel, so if you're inclined to take advantage of such things you need to be prepared in advance!"
The State Department Website writes:
"Due to longer than expected processing times for passport applications in the face of record-breaking demand, the federal government is making an accommodation for air travel. U.S. citizens traveling to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda who have applied for but not yet received passports can temporarily enter and depart from the United States by air with a government issued photo identification and Department of State official proof of application for a passport through Sept. 30, 2007."
Click here to obtain proof of your passport application.
A driver's license or military ID is required for U.S. Citizens over age 16.
It now takes up to 12 weeks to apply for and receive a passport. If you must travel within that 12-week period, the government recommends that you use their Expedited Passport Service.
Click here for answers to common questions.
If you plan to visit other countries besides Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda, click here to learn more about entry requirements for those countries.
(Source: Northwest Airlines Email Extra, 06/11/07)
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All tickets for all special events are now out...
Pirates and Princess Party
Aug 11, 15, 18, 21, 24, 28, 31; Sept 3
adult gate price - $38.95, child gate price - $32.95
(no advance purchase discounts)
Night of Joy
Sept 7 or 8 - $46.95, adult and child
(advance purchase $41.95)
Sept 7/8 combo ticket - $71.95, adult and child
(no advance purchase discount)
Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
Sept 14, 21, 28, 30; Oct 4, 5, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, 31, Nov 2
adult gate price - $45.95, child gate price - $39.95
(advance purchase prices $38.95 adult, $32.95 child for MOST week nights and Sundays plus Sept 14)
(no advance purchase discount for 10/31)
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
Nov 12, 15, 16, 25, 27, 29, 30; Dec 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21
adult gate price - $47.95, child gate price - $40.95
(advance purchase $40.95 adult, $33.95 child for MOST Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays)
TAX IS ADDITIONAL!
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Howl-O-Scream 2007 is a New Spin on Horror
Florida’s top-rated Halloween event returns with more shocking new surprises than ever before. This fall, Howl-O-Scream is back for an eighth season of blood-curdling scares. For 16 select nights, Howl-O-Scream 2007 will transform Busch Gardens Africa into a nightmare of inescapable fear that will overwhelm the senses with a new spin of horror. The devious creatures that infest six haunted houses, five scare zones and three thrilling shows have plenty of psychotic surprises in store, and bone-chilling roller coasters to keep the screams coming all night long.
Howl-O-Scream 2007 runs select Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights during October: Oct. 5-6, 11-13, 18-21 and 25-28. Freaky Preview lets guests take a stab at the scares a week early on Sept. 28-30 for discounted rates. Operating hours are 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. during Freaky Preview and on Thursday and Sunday nights. Friday and Saturday hours are 7:30 p.m. to 2 a.m.
General admission is $59.95 plus tax, with savings available on advance e-ticket purchases at DeathJockey.com. Reduced rates and special offers are also available to Busch Gardens Passport members, at participating AAA locations and for guests wishing to upgrade their paid daily admission to Busch Gardens.
Howl-O-Scream is too intense for young children. Parental discretion is advised.
For more information on Howl-O-Scream, call 1-888-800-5447. (Source: Press Release, 06/01/07)
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Start the Countdown! Cypress Gardens set to open Starliner at end of June
The countdown has started at Cypress Gardens Adventure Park, as Florida’s original scream machine is set to open June 30th in a flurry of festivities, including an appearance by a special celebrity guest. The park announced the opening date today as they unveiled the newly arrived coaster cars.
The Starliner, originally built in 1963 in Panama City Beach, was rescued by Cypress Gardens when the Miracle Strip Amusement Park closed in 2004. The historic coaster was created by master coaster designer John Allen of the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. Cypress Gardens has stayed true to the original design with a few exciting profile modifications. At a cost of more than $4 million, the coaster is the park’s biggest ride investment to date.
At its height, the Starliner tops out at 70 feet on the first hill. After hurtling passengers 67 feet toward the ground at speeds of up to 70 miles per hour, the coaster then skims a series of bunny hills and camel backs, providing plenty of negative-g’s and the much-coveted "air time."
One of the design modifications was the turn-around, which was banked to a higher degree and given a sharper turn to provide a much more exciting diving, hair-pin turn. Ironically, according to roller coaster historians, the turn-around was the only part of the coaster the original designer, John Allen, felt didn’t turn out as planned.
Festivities on June 30th include a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11:30 am, with first rides starting at noon. Among the first to ride will be a special celebrity guest, who will then be on hand for an autograph and picture session. Seven hundred of the first riders of Starliner will walk away with a commemorative t-shirt.
The Starliner is the park’s sixth coaster and joins exciting rides, Splash Island Water Park, spectacular daily shows, and Jubilee Junction, a picturesque village where food and shopping take an entertaining old-fashioned twist. Come face-to-face with more than 150 animals in Nature’s Way or take in the beauty of Wings of Wonder, the famed butterfly arboretum. Stroll the historic gardens, visit with our graceful Southern Belles and gasp in wonder at the world-famous ski show. It’s adventure for all ages! The park is located in Winter Haven, Florida two miles west of SR 27 on Cypress Gardens Boulevard. (Source: Press Release, 06/07/07)
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DISNEYLAND ADDS MAGICAL "8TH DAY" TO THE WEEK
Dreams Come True for Eager Fans Waiting to Ride The New Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage
In the spirit of Walt Disney’s renowned ability to create magic, the Disneyland Resort is sprinkling some pixie dust on the calendar and virtually creating an "8th Day" in its operating week in anticipation of high demand for the new Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage attraction, which resurfaces June 11 in the Tomorrowland Lagoon. The subs return as part of the ongoing Year of a Million Dreams celebration at the Disneyland Resort.
Starting June 11, the day the subs resurface, guests will be allowed to join the queue until official park closing and the subs will continue their voyages to find Nemo for up to 2 1/2 hours after park closing.
"We’re very excited to bring back the classic subs attraction, which we know will appeal to guests of all ages," said Ed Grier, President, Disneyland Resort. "In order to meet what we believe will be very high demand, we’re virtually adding an ‘8th day’ to the week."
The magic continues with a focus on Disney-style service. While guests are anticipating their underwater adventure, they’ll be invited to "Find Nemo" while voyaging through the queue. Armed with a special Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage activity guide, they will search out "Hidden Nemos" along the way and play other Nemo-related games.
And when the hunger for the adventure becomes too much, fun Nemo-themed food creations, such as a snack pack with cheddar fish crackers mixed with an "East Australian Crunch," popcorn buckets, cupcakes, frozen apple juice and more, will be available for purchase in ports along the way and throughout Tomorrowland.
Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage takes its inspiration from two over-the-top entertainment experiences - the worldwide smash hit Disney·Pixar motion picture Finding Nemo and the Resort’s fondly remembered classic Submarine Voyage attraction that opened in 1959 and retired in 1998.
During the summer months, on average, Disneyland Park operates 16 hours per day. With 2 1/2 additional hours of potential operation each night (17 1/2 hours total per week) for the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, Disneyland is offering guests more than an extra day each week to enjoy the attraction.
Highlighted this summer by the Grand Opening of the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, the Year of a Million Dreams celebration at Disneyland Resort features a full lineup of immersive character encounters and other "Dream-Come-True" experiences. There are opportunities for guests to meet and play with Disney Princesses at Disney Princess Fantasy Faire, join a band of pirates at Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island, duel with Darth Vader at Jedi Training Academy, or show some school spirit in the High School Musical Pep Rally. (Source: Press Release, 06/06/07)
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MONEY SAVING COUPON
Cici's Pizza
7437 International Dr
Orlando, FL 32819
407-226-9822
Buffet serving 16 varieties of Pizza, Pasta, Salad Bar and Dessert. Get 10% of your bill with this coupon.
=================================================
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.
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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.
=============================================
June 13, 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!
Disney rarely offers deals to the general public during its busiest seasons: Spring Break, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's and Easter. If you want to visit Walt Disney World 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 - Universal Orlando ticket special, Universal Orlando room special, Universal Halloween Special, 2nd day FREE at this popular park, FREE night and FREE second day at Universal Hollywood, $25 dining certificates for $5, 22 Disney cruise specials, and a Caribbean cruise from $549 + Kids FREE!
* The latest news from around the "World" - Disney closes The Haunted Mansion for rehab!
* Beth writes about the Fed's recent announcement regarding passports
* Florida’s original scream machine is set to open June 30 at Cypress Gardens
* Howl-O-Scream is back for an eighth season at Busch Gardens
* Disneyland California adds magical "8th Day" to the week
* Disney announces dates and ticket prices for Pirates and Princess Party, Night of Joy, Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
* This week's coupon - save at this popular Pizza Buffet in Orlando
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
* Universal Ticket Special: This group can purchase four (4) 2-Day / 2-Park Tickets & receive one (1) additional 2-Day / 2-Park Ticket FREE! Plus, receive three (3) additional days for FREE, for a total of five (5) consecutive days of admission.
--------------------------------
* Universal Room Special: This group can book a vacation to Universal Orlando and receive the 5th Night FREE at any Universal Orlando onsite hotel! Plus, receive a FREE room upgrade with your vacation package!
--------------------------------
* Universal Halloween Special: Starting from only $199 per adult. Your vacation includes:
>> Two (2) night hotel accommodations at a Universal Partner Hotel
>> 1-Night Halloween Horror Nights ticket, PLUS 2-Park Unlimited Admission combo ticket valid at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure
>> One (1) souvenir photograph
>> Complimentary scheduled transportation to Universal Orlando Resort
>> Free access to live entertainment at Universal CityWalk®
>> Discounts on shopping & dining throughout Universal Orlando.
Halloween Horror Nights: Sept. 28-29, Oct. 4-7, 11-14, 18-21, 24-28, 31, Nov. 1-3
--------------------------------
* Enjoy a Second Day FREE at this popular Orlando park!
--------------------------------
* Discounts at Restaurants near Disney! Now you can buy money saving dining certificates to restaurants in Orlando and all across the US. And here's a great way to celebrate Father's Day and not break the bank: Get $25 dining certificates for only $5! Plus, you'll also get a FREE $15 Lobster Gram Credit with every order of $50 or more so you can treat Dad (or yourself) to even more! Hurry! The dining certificate promotion expires 06/17/07. The Lobster Gram promotion code expires 06/30/07.
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Universal Studios Hollywood Offer: This group can book a vacation for 2 nights and receive the 3rd night FREE at the Sportsmen's Lodge from November 1, 2006 - March 31, 2007. Plus! Enjoy a 2nd Day FREE at Universal Studios Hollywood! Add the following items to complete your ideal Hollywood Getaway:
* 1 lunch or dinner at Hard Rock Cafe® or Shanghai & Mein, Noodles & DimSum®
* Movie Stars Homes' Tour with Transportation from your Hollywood Area Hotel
--------------------------------
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
22 Disney Cruise Specials for July, August and September, 2007 starting at $389!
--------------------------------
CARIBBEAN CRUISE SPECIAL
Get an Oceanview Cabin for the price of an Inside Cabin + Kids FREE! Rates start as low as $549 plus kids 17 and under traveling with two adults in the same stateroom sail FREE!
=================================================
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
>> Several ways to win a Walt Disney World/Florida vacation!
>> Late Summer Special! FREE dining at Walt Disney World! Save $38.00 per adult and $11.00 per child per day!
>> 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 $100.00 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 30% at Universal's Portofino, Hard Rock and These teachers receive a FREE ticket to both Universal Orlando theme parks
>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69
>> This group saves $80.00 on day visits to SeaWorld's Discovery Cove
>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure for less than $20
>> 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 $499!
>> Four nights from $539!
>> Seven nights Land & Sea from $899!
>> This group receives a $50 onboard credit!
>> Discounts for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Win a Disneyland/Southern California vacation!
>> Fourth Night Free at Disneyland Good Neighbor Hotels!
>> Kids fly FREE to Disneyland! A family of four can save $700.00 on airfare!
>> Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!
>> Stay one night get one night FREE!
>> Kids under 7 stay FREE!
--------------------------------
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!
--------------------------------
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.
--------------------------------
CRUISES
>> Cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska, South America, Mediterranean, South Africa, and Europe up to 50% off!
>> Inexpensive Shore Excursions and Tours!
--------------------------------
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
--------------------------------
"I'm amazed it's taken Disney so long to get into the wedding racket, and that the price of the gowns is not completely ridiculous. The typical American bride spends $1,505 on her dress, while the princess gowns cost between $1,100 and $3,400. Three grand may seem like a lot of money for a dress that'll be worn for one day, but let's face it: Elegance may characterize the Disney princesses; frugality does not." (Source: philly.com, 06/10/07)
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"Two people from Connecticut were abducted from [Downtown] Disney and then robbed at gunpoint before being dropped at a landfill." (Source: wftv.com, 06/11/07)
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The Haunted Mansion at Disney's Magic Kingdom is closed now through mid-September! "Disney plans its first major overhaul of the popular Humor-driven attraction this summer, including technology updates and a few new ghosts." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 06/09/07)
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Annual Passholders and a guest are invited Friday, July 13, 2007, to attend a behind-the-scenes exploration of the Tower of Terror from 10:30 PM until midnight. AP holders should see their Disney mailer or log in to Disney's AP site for reservation information.
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"Zowie! Stan Lee, the creator of such comic-book superheroes as Spider-Man and X-Men, has signed an exclusive content deal with Walt Disney Studios... Under the multiyear agreement, the studio gets first shot at films, TV shows, books and video games devised by the 84-year-old Lee and his company, POW! Entertainment." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 06/06/07)
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"Unions representing about one-third of Walt Disney World's work force approved a three-year contract late Wednesday... Still, the large number of votes against the contract shows many workers remain unhappy." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 06/07/07)
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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
"Universal Orlando is offering its new 'Hydro Action Ski Show' starting this weekend on the Islands of Adventure lagoon -- the first time that a daytime entertainment has been staged there."
"Florida's tallest roller coaster, SheiKra, reopens this weekend, now that Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has stripped the floors out of the coaster's cars."
(Source: Orlando Sentinel, 06/11/07)
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Making "Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage" accessible to the disabled
"The theater has benches and spaces for wheelchairs that can accommodate about 10 people. People with hearing loss are given hand-held captioning units." Disney also widened the caves at Tom Sawyer Island for wheelchairs and made the restrooms accessible to the handicapped." (Source: timesunion.com, 06/12/07)
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It's not easy being green...
"Some visitors have complained the smell of the trains now isn't the way they remember it: the biodiesel smells somehow like French fries and they miss the diesel smell. But Dela Vara says, their kids will grow up making memories here with the French-fry smell." (Source: msnbc.msn.com, 06/11/07)
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"After nearly 10 years, Disneyland's classic Submarine Voyage was resurrected from the deep today. Reinvented as the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage... [but] the area of the theme park containing the ride - which Walt Disney himself helped conceive - was nearly paved over." (Source: latimes.com, 06/11/07)
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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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Beth, our travel agent, writes about the Federal Government's recent announcement regarding passports:
"VERY IMPORTANT... Currently, if you FLY to/from the Caribbean/Bermuda/Canada/Mexico you need to have a passport. This rule went into effect in January. As expected, the time it takes to get a passport processed has at least doubled. Starting January 2008 you will need a passport to CRUISE to/from these places as well. If you think that there is the slightest chance that you and/or a family member will EVER be flying, driving or cruising outside the United States **NOW** is the time to be applying for a passport. Remember: The best deals often pop up within 60 days of travel, so if you're inclined to take advantage of such things you need to be prepared in advance!"
The State Department Website writes:
"Due to longer than expected processing times for passport applications in the face of record-breaking demand, the federal government is making an accommodation for air travel. U.S. citizens traveling to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda who have applied for but not yet received passports can temporarily enter and depart from the United States by air with a government issued photo identification and Department of State official proof of application for a passport through Sept. 30, 2007."
Click here to obtain proof of your passport application.
A driver's license or military ID is required for U.S. Citizens over age 16.
It now takes up to 12 weeks to apply for and receive a passport. If you must travel within that 12-week period, the government recommends that you use their Expedited Passport Service.
Click here for answers to common questions.
If you plan to visit other countries besides Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda, click here to learn more about entry requirements for those countries.
(Source: Northwest Airlines Email Extra, 06/11/07)
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All tickets for all special events are now out...
Pirates and Princess Party
Aug 11, 15, 18, 21, 24, 28, 31; Sept 3
adult gate price - $38.95, child gate price - $32.95
(no advance purchase discounts)
Night of Joy
Sept 7 or 8 - $46.95, adult and child
(advance purchase $41.95)
Sept 7/8 combo ticket - $71.95, adult and child
(no advance purchase discount)
Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
Sept 14, 21, 28, 30; Oct 4, 5, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, 31, Nov 2
adult gate price - $45.95, child gate price - $39.95
(advance purchase prices $38.95 adult, $32.95 child for MOST week nights and Sundays plus Sept 14)
(no advance purchase discount for 10/31)
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
Nov 12, 15, 16, 25, 27, 29, 30; Dec 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21
adult gate price - $47.95, child gate price - $40.95
(advance purchase $40.95 adult, $33.95 child for MOST Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays)
TAX IS ADDITIONAL!
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Howl-O-Scream 2007 is a New Spin on Horror
Florida’s top-rated Halloween event returns with more shocking new surprises than ever before. This fall, Howl-O-Scream is back for an eighth season of blood-curdling scares. For 16 select nights, Howl-O-Scream 2007 will transform Busch Gardens Africa into a nightmare of inescapable fear that will overwhelm the senses with a new spin of horror. The devious creatures that infest six haunted houses, five scare zones and three thrilling shows have plenty of psychotic surprises in store, and bone-chilling roller coasters to keep the screams coming all night long.
Howl-O-Scream 2007 runs select Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights during October: Oct. 5-6, 11-13, 18-21 and 25-28. Freaky Preview lets guests take a stab at the scares a week early on Sept. 28-30 for discounted rates. Operating hours are 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. during Freaky Preview and on Thursday and Sunday nights. Friday and Saturday hours are 7:30 p.m. to 2 a.m.
General admission is $59.95 plus tax, with savings available on advance e-ticket purchases at DeathJockey.com. Reduced rates and special offers are also available to Busch Gardens Passport members, at participating AAA locations and for guests wishing to upgrade their paid daily admission to Busch Gardens.
Howl-O-Scream is too intense for young children. Parental discretion is advised.
For more information on Howl-O-Scream, call 1-888-800-5447. (Source: Press Release, 06/01/07)
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Start the Countdown! Cypress Gardens set to open Starliner at end of June
The countdown has started at Cypress Gardens Adventure Park, as Florida’s original scream machine is set to open June 30th in a flurry of festivities, including an appearance by a special celebrity guest. The park announced the opening date today as they unveiled the newly arrived coaster cars.
The Starliner, originally built in 1963 in Panama City Beach, was rescued by Cypress Gardens when the Miracle Strip Amusement Park closed in 2004. The historic coaster was created by master coaster designer John Allen of the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. Cypress Gardens has stayed true to the original design with a few exciting profile modifications. At a cost of more than $4 million, the coaster is the park’s biggest ride investment to date.
At its height, the Starliner tops out at 70 feet on the first hill. After hurtling passengers 67 feet toward the ground at speeds of up to 70 miles per hour, the coaster then skims a series of bunny hills and camel backs, providing plenty of negative-g’s and the much-coveted "air time."
One of the design modifications was the turn-around, which was banked to a higher degree and given a sharper turn to provide a much more exciting diving, hair-pin turn. Ironically, according to roller coaster historians, the turn-around was the only part of the coaster the original designer, John Allen, felt didn’t turn out as planned.
Festivities on June 30th include a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11:30 am, with first rides starting at noon. Among the first to ride will be a special celebrity guest, who will then be on hand for an autograph and picture session. Seven hundred of the first riders of Starliner will walk away with a commemorative t-shirt.
The Starliner is the park’s sixth coaster and joins exciting rides, Splash Island Water Park, spectacular daily shows, and Jubilee Junction, a picturesque village where food and shopping take an entertaining old-fashioned twist. Come face-to-face with more than 150 animals in Nature’s Way or take in the beauty of Wings of Wonder, the famed butterfly arboretum. Stroll the historic gardens, visit with our graceful Southern Belles and gasp in wonder at the world-famous ski show. It’s adventure for all ages! The park is located in Winter Haven, Florida two miles west of SR 27 on Cypress Gardens Boulevard. (Source: Press Release, 06/07/07)
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DISNEYLAND ADDS MAGICAL "8TH DAY" TO THE WEEK
Dreams Come True for Eager Fans Waiting to Ride The New Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage
In the spirit of Walt Disney’s renowned ability to create magic, the Disneyland Resort is sprinkling some pixie dust on the calendar and virtually creating an "8th Day" in its operating week in anticipation of high demand for the new Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage attraction, which resurfaces June 11 in the Tomorrowland Lagoon. The subs return as part of the ongoing Year of a Million Dreams celebration at the Disneyland Resort.
Starting June 11, the day the subs resurface, guests will be allowed to join the queue until official park closing and the subs will continue their voyages to find Nemo for up to 2 1/2 hours after park closing.
"We’re very excited to bring back the classic subs attraction, which we know will appeal to guests of all ages," said Ed Grier, President, Disneyland Resort. "In order to meet what we believe will be very high demand, we’re virtually adding an ‘8th day’ to the week."
The magic continues with a focus on Disney-style service. While guests are anticipating their underwater adventure, they’ll be invited to "Find Nemo" while voyaging through the queue. Armed with a special Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage activity guide, they will search out "Hidden Nemos" along the way and play other Nemo-related games.
And when the hunger for the adventure becomes too much, fun Nemo-themed food creations, such as a snack pack with cheddar fish crackers mixed with an "East Australian Crunch," popcorn buckets, cupcakes, frozen apple juice and more, will be available for purchase in ports along the way and throughout Tomorrowland.
Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage takes its inspiration from two over-the-top entertainment experiences - the worldwide smash hit Disney·Pixar motion picture Finding Nemo and the Resort’s fondly remembered classic Submarine Voyage attraction that opened in 1959 and retired in 1998.
During the summer months, on average, Disneyland Park operates 16 hours per day. With 2 1/2 additional hours of potential operation each night (17 1/2 hours total per week) for the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, Disneyland is offering guests more than an extra day each week to enjoy the attraction.
Highlighted this summer by the Grand Opening of the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, the Year of a Million Dreams celebration at Disneyland Resort features a full lineup of immersive character encounters and other "Dream-Come-True" experiences. There are opportunities for guests to meet and play with Disney Princesses at Disney Princess Fantasy Faire, join a band of pirates at Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island, duel with Darth Vader at Jedi Training Academy, or show some school spirit in the High School Musical Pep Rally. (Source: Press Release, 06/06/07)
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MONEY SAVING COUPON
Cici's Pizza
7437 International Dr
Orlando, FL 32819
407-226-9822
Buffet serving 16 varieties of Pizza, Pasta, Salad Bar and Dessert. Get 10% of your bill 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?
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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.
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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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posted by AffordableDisney.Com at 6:13 AM
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