Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
September 3, 2009
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
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Hi Everyone!
Our prayers are with the families of those who are suffering the after effects of hurricane Gustav. Please join us in offering your financial support to CauseGreater.com, which is providing aid to those in need. Thanks!
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NOTE: 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 - new Disney sweepstakes, room discounts for Floridians, Disney cruise discounts, Universal Halloween discounts, and big airfare discounts
* Robyn writes about Disney pins on sale at Ebay
* Beth, our travel agent, writes about getting insurance in case there's a hurricane
* Record-Setting Gold medal winner Michael Phelps goes to Disney World!
* John Lucas of Eugene, Oregon, Wins Third Annual Disneyland Half Marathon
* A Wave of Enhancements In-Store for the Disney Magic Cruise Ship
* Halloween at SeaWorld
* CityWalk Calendar and Venue Entertainment - September 2008
* Get Ready to Meet The New Face of Halloween Horror Nights
* The Haunted Halloween returns to Hong Kong Disneyland
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NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
15 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 39 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!
Walt Disney World rooms for Florida Residents from $54!
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
* 3-Night Cruises from $479!
* 4-Night Cruises from $649!
New Early Savings Discounts on 5 Disney cruises starting at $429!
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UNIVERSAL ORLANDO
Save up to $20 per admission to Universal's Halloween Horror Nights!
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AIRFARE SALES
Fly to London round-trip October 23, 2008 through December 17, 2008 from $180!
Save big on heavily discounted one-way flights on select days! Sample: Long Beach to Sacramento September 16: $19! Book today. This offer will expire soon!
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Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 50 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:
WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Several ways to win a Walt Disney World/Florida vacation!
>> Discount codes for special rates at the deluxe Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort for late Summer and Thanksgiving!
>> Save up to 40% on a 2008 vacation with this promotion if you're at Walt Disney World right now!
>> FREE Customized Park Maps for Walt Disney World!
>> 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
>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69
>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure for less than $20
>> Discounts available on tickets to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens!
>> Florida Residents save up to $80.00 at this Florida park!
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
>> Three nights from $389!
>> Onboard credits!
>> Discounts for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Local Newspaper promotions that apply to everyone in the USA!
>> Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!
>> Kids under 7 stay and play FREE!
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VEGAS
>> Specials at the Bellagio, MGM Grand, New York-New York, Mirage, Treasure Island and Venetian. Low rates - sometimes as low as $79 per night - dining discounts, show tickets, FREE room upgrades, FREE spa admission, and FREE play money are not uncommon.
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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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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Around-the-world tickets and fares: "Where to buy your tickets, how they work and what they cost."
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"Why Pay More? Take Advantage of Free Factory Tours."
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"13 beach escapes that won’t bust the bank."
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Click here for "the 10 best adventure travel bargains of 2008.")
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disneyland Resort Calendar
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
"Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve in Alaska revealed last week that Disney is one of half a dozen cruise companies that have submitted proposals seeking contracts to sail in the park sometime between Jan. 1, 2010, and Sept. 30, 2019." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 08/29/08)
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Disney is expecting fuel costs to exceed $20 million this year. Consequently, they are looking for ways to cut costs, like changing the order of stops, making its ships more fuel efficient, and traveling at slower speeds. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/28/08)
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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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Robyn writes:
"I was just wondering how all of the individuals on Ebay get their pins to sell. Is there some sort of pin discount place?"
For some helpful tips, see http://www.affordabledisney.com/merchandise.html
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Beth, our travel agent, asks: Should I Get Insurance in Case There's a Hurricane?
"With last week's Tropical Storm Fay finally just a memory for most of us, I've nonetheless been bombarded by inquiries about insurance. Hurricane season (also known as rainy season) runs from June 1 to November 30.
Disney does offer insurance if you purchase a package (room and tickets with optional dining) and you can add the insurance anytime prior to doing your final payment. once you add the insurance, it is nonrefundable. Since there is no fee for canceling up until your final payment date, I always suggest that you wait until you're doing the final payment to add it on.
The insurance covers a lot of things, but it does NOT cover bad weather. The fact is, it rains nearly daily this time of year - and when I say rain, picture torrential downpour. It generally only lasts about 20 minutes, though, and takes about 30 minutes to dry up. You can see it coming, too. The sky goes from cloudless and bright blue to ominous as the day progresses. When it starts to get really dark and a bit breezy you know you're minutes from getting drenched. During rainy season, always bring your rain gear and keep it close at hand!
Speaking of rain gear, I recommend the dollar store "3 for a buck" rain ponchos. They are about the thickness of saran wrap and tear easily, but they are easy to carry and can be tossed away after the rain's gone. They aren't as hot as heavier options, and not as costly as those lovely ponchos with Disney characters on them. But I digress!
Disney doesn't close the parks because it rains. In fact, it has to be a pretty serious storm before they consider closing. Even for hurricanes, you'd be surprised at how long they wait to close, and how fast they get the parks open again - and the parks look like nothing ever happened! It's really amazing. Admittedly, you probably don't envision sitting in your room for a day eating chips and watching movies because you've been told not to come out, but for many people being at Disney during a hurricane is an adventure that they talk about for years. When life gives you lemons....
Fortunately, we usually know days in advance if a bad storm is likely to hit the Disney area. If a hurricane is immanent they traditionally will allow you to rebook or even cancel without a fee even without insurance. They don't HAVE to do that, but they really don't want you arriving in the midst of it and they will probably need your room to accommodate people who got stuck an extra day or two because they couldn't leave as scheduled. Likewise, airlines don't like thousands of people sitting on the floors in airports because their flights got canceled. They will typically allow you to change your flights within a small time window, and they waive change fees.
So I'm not saying don't buy insurance, but doing so for weather reasons won't work. If you still aren't liking that answer, though, let me know and I'll try to hook you up with some 'cancel for any reason' insurance. You don't get ALL your money back and you have to purchase within 14 days of making your reservation, but if it's a real concern for you then maybe such a policy is worth looking at."
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Michael Phelps Wins Record-Setting Gold in Beijing... What Did He Do Next? He Went to Disney World!
Direct from the Beijing Games where he won a record eight Gold Medals, world champion swimmer Michael Phelps celebrated his unprecedented achievement with an all-American homecoming parade in his honor at Walt Disney World Resort.
In a star-spangled salute amidst confetti and thousands of flag-waving fans in the Magic Kingdom, Phelps was honored for his record-setting wins and for the spirit in which he captivated the world in his quest for Gold.
The 23-year-old from Baltimore beamed as he rode through the park alongside Mickey Mouse, waving to fans who chanted his name. Magic Kingdom guests joined in "America’s Homecoming Parade" for the swimmer who broke records in each event he entered in Beijing.
For Phelps, who also was honored in Disney parades at both Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland Park in California following the 2004 Summer Games, it was a sweet homecoming to the United States and to see fans who supported him in his quest for Gold in Beijing.
"I am so happy to celebrate here and see some of the fans who supported me," said Phelps. "It’s great to feel so much excitement around the sport of swimming in the U.S. and around the world. To top it all off with a parade at Disney World is just incredible."
During his celebration in the Magic Kingdom, Phelps also took time to meet a group of local swimmers from the central Florida area. The aspiring young swimmers had the chance to talk with Phelps, ask about his record-breaking experiences and see the Gold Medals he won in Beijing.
Phelps’ celebration at Walt Disney World is planned to be the next feature on his wildly popular Facebook.com page. Phelps, one of the most popular public figures on the social networking site, has nearly 1.5 million Facebook "fans" who have subscribed to receive his latest news and updates. Phelps said he plans to offer photographs and video of his Walt Disney World visit on his Facebook.com site.
Phelps, who has announced he will train for the 2012 Games, now owns the record for most Gold Medals in a single event (8) and for a career (14). (Source: Press Release, 08/29/08)
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John Lucas of Eugene, Oregon, Wins Third Annual Disneyland Half Marathon, Setting New Record
Course records were broken in Men’s, Women’s and Master’s divisions in the third annual Disneyland Half Marathon, Sunday at Disneyland Resort.
John Lucas, a marketing specialist for a sports apparel company in Eugene, Oregon, crossed the finish line first with a Disneyland Half Marathon record time of 1:08:05 (exactly two minutes faster than the 2007 winning time), leading the field of an estimated 13,500 participants.
"It’s a very meaningful place for me," Lucas said of Disneyland. After qualifying for the Olympic trials in the 2006 Los Angeles Marathon, Lucas took his girlfriend Molly to Disneyland and proposed to her in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle. The couple also honeymooned at the Resort after their wedding in 2007.
"My favorite moment (in today’s race) was coming back through Disney’s California Adventure and seeing Mrs. Incredible and Sully cheering us on," Lucas said, referring to Disney•Pixar characters who lined the course.
Lucas said he liked the competitive field and "the flat course really helped me keep a rhythm."
Placing second overall was Mark Batres, 23, of Rowland Heights, Calif., with a time of 1:09:55. Chokri Dhaouadi, 36, a Tunisian runner who trains in Las Cruces, New Mexico, finished third with a time of 1:12:14.
Mary Akor, 31, of Gardena, Calif, was the women’s half marathon champion. Akor finished with a Disneyland Half Marathon women’s record time of 1:19:24, despite losing her race chip and having to start from the back of the pack. She caught up with the women’s leader at approximately the five mile mark, in the 13.1-mile event.
"I had to make my way through all the other runners," she said. "But it was a great race with so many people out there cheering us on. That really made it special."
The women’s second place finisher was Mary Kate Bailey, 33, of San Diego, Calif., with a time of 1:19.33. Suzy Schumacher, 39, of Phoenix, Arix. - last year’s winner of the women’s Disneyland Half Marathon - took third place with a time of 1:25:12.
Kevin Broady, 45, of Brea, Calif., who finished first overall in the 2007 Disneyland Half Marathon, earned a notable Master’s Division (age 40+) victory this year with a division record time of 1:13.26 and a fourth place overall ranking.
Edith Martinez, 40, of Brea, Calif., was the top women's Master’s finisher with a division record time of 1:28:29.
In the men’s Half Marathon wheelchair division, Ralph Pieplenbos, 55, of Monrovia, Calif., crossed the finish line with a time of 1:19;27
Last year’s winner of the women’s half marathon wheelchair division, Kristen Messer, 21, of Austin, Texas, repeated this year with a winning time of 1:37:42.
Approximately 13,500 runners from 50 states and 16 countries registered for the magical 13.1 mile Disneyland Half Marathon this year. The field included first-time half marathoners as well as veteran runners. The course traveled through two Disneyland Resort theme parks and along Anaheim streets with landmarks such as Angels Stadium and Honda Center, while colorful Disney characters and festive music inspired them along the way.
Runners who completed the half marathon received a commemorative Sleeping Beauty Castle medal, the signature medal of the Disneyland Half Marathon and one in the Disney endurance series collection.
The Coast-to-Coast medal, a new award, was presented to nearly 1,000 runners who completed either the Walt Disney World Marathon or Walt Disney World Half Marathon in January and then completed Sunday’s Disneyland Half Marathon. The Coast-to-Coast medal showcases the iconic "Partners Statue," of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse.
The 2009 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend will be held Sept. 4-6, with the Half Marathon being held on Sunday, Sept. 6. Registration for the 2009 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend opens on Monday, September 1, 2008.
For more information and to view complete searchable race results visit www.disneylandhalfmarathon.com. For news media information, visit www.disneylandnews.com (Source: Press Release, 08/29/08)
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A Wave of Enhancements In-Store for the Disney Magic Cruise Ship as it Heads Into Dry Dock in September 2008
CELEBRATION, Fla. - An exciting collection of enhancements awaits the Disney Magic as the ship heads into dry dock Sept. 6-24, 2008. The 2,700 passenger cruise ship will undergo a series of upgrades for guests of all ages.
Here is a glimpse at what’s in store:
Indulgence and Relaxation
Quiet Cove, the serene pool retreat reserved for the enjoyment of adults, will undergo a makeover including upgrades to Cove Café, the pool and the deck area. Cove Café, the ship’s sophisticated coffee lounge, will incorporate a new seating area with plush, comfortable chairs providing the perfect venue to relax while sipping a cup of gourmet coffee. Meanwhile, the adult pool will be outfitted with soothing, cascading waterfalls from the two hot tubs. Teak deck and lounge chairs with plush cushions will line the pool, creating an inviting, stylish ambiance in line with the Vista Spa and Salon.
Fun for the Little Ones
The Oceaneer Club, a Neverland-themed play space for 3-7 year olds, and the Oceaneer Lab, a whacky and interactive laboratory exclusively for 8-12 year olds, will be enhanced with new registration areas that make the check-in process more efficient and hassle-free. This sets the stage for incorporating Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology in the youth activity areas later this year, which will further enhance and streamline the check-in process. The technology uses RFID tags embedded on wristbands, allowing children to simply tap a sensor to check in and out of the clubs.
Even the youngest cruisers will have a splashtacular time in
"Mickey’s Splash Zone," a new toddler water playground inspired by Fantasia’s Sorcerer’s Apprentice. This 385-square-foot extension to the Mickey Pool on deck 9 will feature star- and moon-shaped interactive fountains, a soft play surface and whimsical splash zones; creating an inviting environment for children not yet toilet trained and in swim diapers.
New Conveniences
The guest staterooms onboard the Disney Magic are receiving an infusion of technology with the installation of flat-screen LCD television sets. The new 22-inch units will be mounted on a swivel arm to allow easy viewing from multiple locations within the stateroom.
A leader in the family cruise segment, Disney Cruise Line offers three-, four- and seven-night itineraries to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Land/sea vacation packages that include a stay at the Walt Disney World Resort are also available.
To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500. Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888/325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com. (Source: Press Release, 09/02/08)
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SEAWORLD
From pumpkin fishes to friendly sea witches, Halloween meets the sea this October during SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular, carving an underwater "fantasea" where children can dance with an ice DJ, learn from a school of fish, and play with a sea fairy. Offering more than 2 million pieces of trick-or-treat sweets, SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular uniquely brings children’s "fantaseas" to life with enchanted pathways and charming sea creatures, providing the utmost in family-friendly trick-or-treating.
One of Sesame Street’s favorite residents, The Count, along with his friends from Sesame Street even gets into the Halloween spirit, with Count Von Count’s Spooktacular character breakfast. Little ones will sing, groove and mingle side-by-side with Sesame Street characters, while listening to Halloween-themed music and enjoying a special breakfast "boo"-ffet.*
SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular takes place October 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 24-26 and 31, and is included in a single day’s park admission. The event begins each day at 11 a.m., leaving the littlest of trick-or-treaters wide-eyed for the day’s activities ahead.
Spooktacular Highlights Include:
Trick-or-Treat Sea Sweets - Using their Spooktacular maps, costumed youngsters can search for hidden "fantasea" treasures at more than a dozen different stations, all featuring an array of sweet treats. New for this year is a healthy choice: Chiquita® Mini’s - a sweeter tasting banana that's just the right size!
Frozen Fun Zone - An ice DJ will melt the ice during a Spooktacular celebration sure to heat up the area with interactive games and activities.
Strolling Entertainment - Gummy Worm Wanda, Salt Water Taffy, and Swedish Fish Suzy are among the 35 fanciful sea creatures that will once again join the "Spook-tastic" fun, welcoming trick-or-treaters as they stroll through colorful, playful schools of pumpkin fish.
Wild Things at Seafire Inn - In this show, guest will gain a new appreciation for nature's most misunderstood creepy creatures as they take center stage at Seafire Inn.
More SeaWorld Halloween Fun:
SeaWorld’s Spooky Spectacular Sleepover (Oct. 17, 18, 24 and 25, from 7 p.m. - 9 a.m.)
Family members and their trick-or-treaters can end their night coming face-to-face with predatory polar bears and stealthy stingrays, before snuggling into a spooky slumber at Shark Encounter - just sleeping bags away from those terrors of the deep, sharks. An evening snack and breakfast also are included. Cost is $78 per person or $113 to include park admission; program is for children in grades K-5 and their families. For more info, visit www.seaworld.org.
SeaWorld Orlando is the world’s premier marine adventure park with 200 acres of world-class shows, thrilling rides and unforgettable animal encounters. Millions of visitors have explored the mysteries of the sea with up-close animal interactions and exhilarating experiences. State-of-the-art rides give guests unprecedented thrills, while amazing animal encounters include killer whales, dolphins, sea lions, sharks and more.
*Count Von Count’s Spooktacular Character BreakfastTM/© 2008 Sesame Workshop (Source: Press Release, 08/08)
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CityWalk Calendar And Venue Entertainment - September 2008
**SPECIAL EVENTS**
The Halfway to St. Patty’s Day Party at Pat O’ Brien’s
Saturday, September 13th ~ Starts at 4PM
Live rock band; Traditional Irish food and drink available; $2 Bud specials
Admission: $8
VIP Admission: $15 (Includes front-of-line and balcony access; additional drink specials, and a complimentary buffet)
Top Chef: The Tour Comes to CityWalk
Wednesday, September 24
Come enjoy live cooking demonstrations with your favorite cheftestants from Bravo’s Top Chef!
You can also shop for Top Chef gear, get autographs, sign up for a raffle and check out interactive kiosks. It’s a total Top Chef experience!
The Vera Bradley Event
Sunday, September 21 ~ 1PM - 4PM
Come see the latest colorful collection of Vera Bradley handbags, luggage and accessories.
- 50% off regularly-priced Fresh Produce item
- Gift with qualifying Vera Bradley purchase
- Complimentary refreshments
- Open to public, standard parking rates apply
**RESTAURANTS AND CLUBS**
Bob Marley - A Tribute to Freedom
Legendary Thursdays ~ 8PM - Close
1/2 price select appetizers and Red Stripe Beer specials
Entertainment
Mystik NRG ~ Monday - Friday
Chain Reaction ~ Saturday & Sundays
CityWalk Promenade
Bands play on the Plaza Stage from 6:30pm - 11:00pm on Friday and Saturday nights
Orange Avenue plays on Fridays, Saturdays and other select dates Hypersona plays September 13, 19, and 20
the groove
Nightly Happy Hour ~ 9PM - 11PM
Complimentary admission until 10PM
$2 domestic bottle; $3 well drinks; $4 call drinks
SKYY’S Infusion Fridays
SKYY drink specials, signature martinis, bottle service and more
Teen Nights at the groove
Friday ~ September 12; 7PM - 11PM
Come listen to live DJs spin all of today’s hits, and experience state-of-the-art sound, lighting and video
Ages 15 - 19 welcome. Bring your school ID or driver’s license for admission. Admission is $15
Entertainment
DJs nightly
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
Locals Night - Thursdays
Enjoy drink specials, live rock entertainment and a chance to win prizes
Guests receive free admission with a Florida ID or a college ID after 10PM
Happy Hour from 3PM to 5PM at Lone Palm and Margaritaville’s Porch of Indecision
Half-priced domestic drafts and House Margaritas.
Entertainment
Blue Stone Circle ~ Nightly
Lone Palm-DJ Bo Wilson ~ Thursday - Sunday
Patio ~ Live music nightly
Leonard Brothers ~ September 20
Latin Quarter
Ladies Night with Rumba 100.3FM - Thursdays
Reggaeton/freestyle dance party from 10PM - 2AM
Ladies drink free (select beverages) from 10PM - 12AM
Entertainment
Alejandro Kartal ~ Monday - Saturday
George Dimitrov ~ Sundays
NASCAR Sports Grille
Featuring the following sporting events on BIG screens:
- Football Season
- NASCAR races
NBA City
All sports, all the time!
Happy Hour daily ~ 4PM - 7PM
Pat O’Brien’s Orlando
2 for Tuesdays ~ Every Tuesday, 4PM - 10PM
2 for 1 Hurricanes; 2 for 1 domestic drafts and drink specials
Half-price select appetizers
S.O.B. Fridays (Shrimp, Oysters and Beer) - Fridays, 4PM - 9PM
- Shrimp - $.50 peel and eat shrimp
- Oysters - $.50 oysters on the half shell or fried oysters
- Beer - $2 Miller Lite drafts and $1 MGD & Highlife bottles
Entertainment
Dueling Piano Bar - Live music nightly
Red Coconut Club
Nightly Happy Hour
Sunday - Thursday, 8PM - 10PM; Friday and Saturday, 6PM - 9PM
$5 Martinis and complimentary valet parking
Ladies Night every Thursday ~ 8PM - Close
Ladies receive complimentary admission, valet parking and $3 martinis all evening
In Crowd Hospitality Sundays ~ Sundays at 10PM
Free admission for members of the hospitality industry all evening
Drink specials starting at $2 with your ID or hospitality pay stub
Entertainment
Special Guest DJ Baby Anne ~ Tuesday Nights September 2, 16, 23 and 30
Shifty Eyed Dog ~ Thursday - Saturday
DJs nightly
Universal Cineplex 20, an AMC Theatre
Burn After Reading - September 12, 2008 (Source: Press Release, 08/26/08)
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Get Ready to Meet The New Face of Halloween Horror Nights
This Year’s Halloween Horror Nights Outdoor Advertising
Pushes the Art Form to New Levels
Universal Orlando’s in-your-face Halloween Horror Nights billboards stay with you long after you drive past them. And they make for great, "I can’t believe they did that this year!" conversation.
This Thursday, Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights billboards will use a combination of creativity and sheer scare-factor to introduce a new face behind the horror; a new presence at the event. That presence will take Halloween Horror Nights - and its billboards - to entirely new levels.
The new billboards will be creative. They will be provocative. They will be larger-than-life. They will push the art form - and reaction to that art - to places other theme park billboards will not go.
So motorists be prepared: you’ll have some company on your morning commute.
There will be more than 80 billboards in the Orlando area, with some especially striking versions along the I-4 corridor. And as the below list of high-profile locations shows, the boards will be like a good scare during Halloween Horror Nights: they will seem to be everywhere.
Highly-Visible Orlando Billboard Locations:
* I-4 Westbound at Fairbanks Ave
* I-4 Eastbound at Michigan Ave
* SR 528 Westbound before 441 Toll Plaza
* I-4 Eastbound at SR 528
* I-4 Westbound at Universal Orlando Resort Exit (74B)
* SR 528 near Daetwyler
* SR 436 Eastbound near SR 434
* SR 436 near US 17-92
* I-4 110 feet east of Fairbanks Ave.
* I-4 .27 miles east of Fairbanks Ave. (Source: Press Release, 08/26/08)
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The Haunted Halloween returns to Hong Kong Disneyland
Darkness intensifies as it invades a whole new territory of the Park
Beginning September 26, 2008, for 37 heart-pounding and haunting days until November 1, 2008, an expanded and intensified dark force will rule over the Resort during the Haunted Halloween at Hong Kong Disneyland. The Darkness will return stronger than ever, extending its reach into Adventureland, daring adrenaline junkies, scare fanatics and the curious to step into this uncharted territory. This never-before-seen frightful experience will come to life at Hong Kong Disneyland this Halloween season.
The Dark Forces Expand Their Territory - All-New Haunted Experiences in Adventureland
The Darkness of the Haunted Halloween will take over even more of Hong Kong Disneyland this year.
With the dark forces expanding their domain into Adventureland, Guests will encounter the recently discovered Demon Jungle. Treasure seeking, tomb raiding explorers made their camp on a sacred burial ground enraging the demons below, who are now seeking vengeance on all those who enter. Guests will need all their willpower to escape, and finding the exit will definitely be a challenge. This terrifying experience is specially designed for Hong Kong Disneyland!
If Guests are lucky enough to escape, they will face another unexpected challenge on the Adventureland Haunted Trail. A Halloween-themed photo hot spot by day, it will be transformed into a mist shrouded trail on Friday and Saturday nights, inhabited with creatures such as Zombies, Gatekeepers and Pirates, as well as grinning Pumpkin Men that will have Guests jumping with fright.
More Traces of Intensified Darkness Found
Back by popular demand, the Resort's exclusive Glow in the Park Halloween Parade will feature more spectacular UV lighting effects as it glows in the dark, creating engaging experiences and spectacular effects. Jack Skellington as the Pumpkin King, Dr. Finklestein together with Sally from The Nightmare Before Christmas, Disney's Villains, zombies and acrobatic Red Devils are all part of the scare. Watch out for the rousing finale as the Ghost Pirate Ship makes its premiere in this year's parade!
The Main Street Haunted Hotel will reopen this year. The ghost of Victoria Maxwell will be up to her ultra scary antics at the hotel; there will be new spine tingling scares as she welcomes new and returning victims. Even Guests who escaped last year are welcome to check-in, but will they manage to check-out...?
More traces of darkness will be found at Tomorrowland as Space Mountain is transformed into Space Mountain - Ghost Galaxy. Get lost in the terror of a frightening soundtrack and the hair-raising visual effects, with scary apparitions and ghoulish monstrosities around every treacherous bend.
The immersive experience begins the moment Guests enter the Resort with all-new spooky décor including Pumpkin King Jack Skellington and Sally greeting Guests from the Main Gates. In addition, there are 160 all-new merchandise items as well as Halloween themed menus and drinks.
"The Haunted Halloween at Hong Kong Disneyland was an overwhelming success last year and it was only through the Disney Difference that Guests were able to experience a totally immersive and interactive Halloween event," said Maple Lee, Vice President, Marketing of Hong Kong Disneyland.
"According to statistics from Guest surveys, satisfaction levels during the Haunted Halloween 2007 reached 90%! This year, we have created an even more frightening and extensive Halloween experience."
With young adults in mind, the Resort will once again launch a limited time Halloween evening ticket for Fridays and Saturdays. Designed for entry after 6:30pm (the Park will remain open on these days until 11:00pm), night goers can experience the intensely dark Haunted Halloween at its peak. Evening tickets will cost HK$198 for all age categories.
"Last year, the majority of Guests visiting the Haunted Halloween at Hong Kong Disneyland were aged between 18 and 24. We are confident that our evening ticket will once again offer a flexible option to our young adult Guests this year."
Beginning August 27, 2008, day tickets and evening tickets for the Haunted Halloween at Hong Kong Disneyland can be purchased at the Main Gate of the Park, through the Resort's website, at the Hong Kong Disneyland Ticket Express at MTR Hong Kong Station as well as at select Circle K outlets. A special ticket booth located at the Peak will also be opened on September 3, 2008.
For more information about the Haunted Halloween at Hong Kong Disneyland, please logon to our website:
http://park.hongkongdisneyland.com/hkdl/html/halloween2008/en_US/index.html. (Source: Press Release, 08/26/08)
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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Affordable Disney Books
Disney and other new books 50-90% off the list price. 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 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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Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
September 3, 2009
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
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Hi Everyone!
Our prayers are with the families of those who are suffering the after effects of hurricane Gustav. Please join us in offering your financial support to CauseGreater.com, which is providing aid to those in need. Thanks!
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NOTE: 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 - new Disney sweepstakes, room discounts for Floridians, Disney cruise discounts, Universal Halloween discounts, and big airfare discounts
* Robyn writes about Disney pins on sale at Ebay
* Beth, our travel agent, writes about getting insurance in case there's a hurricane
* Record-Setting Gold medal winner Michael Phelps goes to Disney World!
* John Lucas of Eugene, Oregon, Wins Third Annual Disneyland Half Marathon
* A Wave of Enhancements In-Store for the Disney Magic Cruise Ship
* Halloween at SeaWorld
* CityWalk Calendar and Venue Entertainment - September 2008
* Get Ready to Meet The New Face of Halloween Horror Nights
* The Haunted Halloween returns to Hong Kong Disneyland
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NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
15 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 39 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!
Walt Disney World rooms for Florida Residents from $54!
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
* 3-Night Cruises from $479!
* 4-Night Cruises from $649!
New Early Savings Discounts on 5 Disney cruises starting at $429!
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UNIVERSAL ORLANDO
Save up to $20 per admission to Universal's Halloween Horror Nights!
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AIRFARE SALES
Fly to London round-trip October 23, 2008 through December 17, 2008 from $180!
Save big on heavily discounted one-way flights on select days! Sample: Long Beach to Sacramento September 16: $19! Book today. This offer will expire soon!
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Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 50 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:
WALT DISNEY WORLD
>> Several ways to win a Walt Disney World/Florida vacation!
>> Discount codes for special rates at the deluxe Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort for late Summer and Thanksgiving!
>> Save up to 40% on a 2008 vacation with this promotion if you're at Walt Disney World right now!
>> FREE Customized Park Maps for Walt Disney World!
>> 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
>> Book your Tee Times at this site where rates start at $69
>> All you can eat at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure for less than $20
>> Discounts available on tickets to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens!
>> Florida Residents save up to $80.00 at this Florida park!
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
>> Three nights from $389!
>> Onboard credits!
>> Discounts for Florida residents and the military - rates too low to publish!
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
>> Local Newspaper promotions that apply to everyone in the USA!
>> Save up to $40.00 per ticket to Disneyland California!
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DISNEYLAND PARIS
>> Discover the secret to getting FREE admission!
>> Kids under 7 stay and play FREE!
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VEGAS
>> Specials at the Bellagio, MGM Grand, New York-New York, Mirage, Treasure Island and Venetian. Low rates - sometimes as low as $79 per night - dining discounts, show tickets, FREE room upgrades, FREE spa admission, and FREE play money are not uncommon.
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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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Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
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OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
Around-the-world tickets and fares: "Where to buy your tickets, how they work and what they cost."
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"Why Pay More? Take Advantage of Free Factory Tours."
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"13 beach escapes that won’t bust the bank."
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Click here for "the 10 best adventure travel bargains of 2008.")
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DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disneyland Resort Calendar
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
"Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve in Alaska revealed last week that Disney is one of half a dozen cruise companies that have submitted proposals seeking contracts to sail in the park sometime between Jan. 1, 2010, and Sept. 30, 2019." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 08/29/08)
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Disney is expecting fuel costs to exceed $20 million this year. Consequently, they are looking for ways to cut costs, like changing the order of stops, making its ships more fuel efficient, and traveling at slower speeds. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/28/08)
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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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Robyn writes:
"I was just wondering how all of the individuals on Ebay get their pins to sell. Is there some sort of pin discount place?"
For some helpful tips, see http://www.affordabledisney.com/merchandise.html
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Beth, our travel agent, asks: Should I Get Insurance in Case There's a Hurricane?
"With last week's Tropical Storm Fay finally just a memory for most of us, I've nonetheless been bombarded by inquiries about insurance. Hurricane season (also known as rainy season) runs from June 1 to November 30.
Disney does offer insurance if you purchase a package (room and tickets with optional dining) and you can add the insurance anytime prior to doing your final payment. once you add the insurance, it is nonrefundable. Since there is no fee for canceling up until your final payment date, I always suggest that you wait until you're doing the final payment to add it on.
The insurance covers a lot of things, but it does NOT cover bad weather. The fact is, it rains nearly daily this time of year - and when I say rain, picture torrential downpour. It generally only lasts about 20 minutes, though, and takes about 30 minutes to dry up. You can see it coming, too. The sky goes from cloudless and bright blue to ominous as the day progresses. When it starts to get really dark and a bit breezy you know you're minutes from getting drenched. During rainy season, always bring your rain gear and keep it close at hand!
Speaking of rain gear, I recommend the dollar store "3 for a buck" rain ponchos. They are about the thickness of saran wrap and tear easily, but they are easy to carry and can be tossed away after the rain's gone. They aren't as hot as heavier options, and not as costly as those lovely ponchos with Disney characters on them. But I digress!
Disney doesn't close the parks because it rains. In fact, it has to be a pretty serious storm before they consider closing. Even for hurricanes, you'd be surprised at how long they wait to close, and how fast they get the parks open again - and the parks look like nothing ever happened! It's really amazing. Admittedly, you probably don't envision sitting in your room for a day eating chips and watching movies because you've been told not to come out, but for many people being at Disney during a hurricane is an adventure that they talk about for years. When life gives you lemons....
Fortunately, we usually know days in advance if a bad storm is likely to hit the Disney area. If a hurricane is immanent they traditionally will allow you to rebook or even cancel without a fee even without insurance. They don't HAVE to do that, but they really don't want you arriving in the midst of it and they will probably need your room to accommodate people who got stuck an extra day or two because they couldn't leave as scheduled. Likewise, airlines don't like thousands of people sitting on the floors in airports because their flights got canceled. They will typically allow you to change your flights within a small time window, and they waive change fees.
So I'm not saying don't buy insurance, but doing so for weather reasons won't work. If you still aren't liking that answer, though, let me know and I'll try to hook you up with some 'cancel for any reason' insurance. You don't get ALL your money back and you have to purchase within 14 days of making your reservation, but if it's a real concern for you then maybe such a policy is worth looking at."
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Michael Phelps Wins Record-Setting Gold in Beijing... What Did He Do Next? He Went to Disney World!
Direct from the Beijing Games where he won a record eight Gold Medals, world champion swimmer Michael Phelps celebrated his unprecedented achievement with an all-American homecoming parade in his honor at Walt Disney World Resort.
In a star-spangled salute amidst confetti and thousands of flag-waving fans in the Magic Kingdom, Phelps was honored for his record-setting wins and for the spirit in which he captivated the world in his quest for Gold.
The 23-year-old from Baltimore beamed as he rode through the park alongside Mickey Mouse, waving to fans who chanted his name. Magic Kingdom guests joined in "America’s Homecoming Parade" for the swimmer who broke records in each event he entered in Beijing.
For Phelps, who also was honored in Disney parades at both Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland Park in California following the 2004 Summer Games, it was a sweet homecoming to the United States and to see fans who supported him in his quest for Gold in Beijing.
"I am so happy to celebrate here and see some of the fans who supported me," said Phelps. "It’s great to feel so much excitement around the sport of swimming in the U.S. and around the world. To top it all off with a parade at Disney World is just incredible."
During his celebration in the Magic Kingdom, Phelps also took time to meet a group of local swimmers from the central Florida area. The aspiring young swimmers had the chance to talk with Phelps, ask about his record-breaking experiences and see the Gold Medals he won in Beijing.
Phelps’ celebration at Walt Disney World is planned to be the next feature on his wildly popular Facebook.com page. Phelps, one of the most popular public figures on the social networking site, has nearly 1.5 million Facebook "fans" who have subscribed to receive his latest news and updates. Phelps said he plans to offer photographs and video of his Walt Disney World visit on his Facebook.com site.
Phelps, who has announced he will train for the 2012 Games, now owns the record for most Gold Medals in a single event (8) and for a career (14). (Source: Press Release, 08/29/08)
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John Lucas of Eugene, Oregon, Wins Third Annual Disneyland Half Marathon, Setting New Record
Course records were broken in Men’s, Women’s and Master’s divisions in the third annual Disneyland Half Marathon, Sunday at Disneyland Resort.
John Lucas, a marketing specialist for a sports apparel company in Eugene, Oregon, crossed the finish line first with a Disneyland Half Marathon record time of 1:08:05 (exactly two minutes faster than the 2007 winning time), leading the field of an estimated 13,500 participants.
"It’s a very meaningful place for me," Lucas said of Disneyland. After qualifying for the Olympic trials in the 2006 Los Angeles Marathon, Lucas took his girlfriend Molly to Disneyland and proposed to her in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle. The couple also honeymooned at the Resort after their wedding in 2007.
"My favorite moment (in today’s race) was coming back through Disney’s California Adventure and seeing Mrs. Incredible and Sully cheering us on," Lucas said, referring to Disney•Pixar characters who lined the course.
Lucas said he liked the competitive field and "the flat course really helped me keep a rhythm."
Placing second overall was Mark Batres, 23, of Rowland Heights, Calif., with a time of 1:09:55. Chokri Dhaouadi, 36, a Tunisian runner who trains in Las Cruces, New Mexico, finished third with a time of 1:12:14.
Mary Akor, 31, of Gardena, Calif, was the women’s half marathon champion. Akor finished with a Disneyland Half Marathon women’s record time of 1:19:24, despite losing her race chip and having to start from the back of the pack. She caught up with the women’s leader at approximately the five mile mark, in the 13.1-mile event.
"I had to make my way through all the other runners," she said. "But it was a great race with so many people out there cheering us on. That really made it special."
The women’s second place finisher was Mary Kate Bailey, 33, of San Diego, Calif., with a time of 1:19.33. Suzy Schumacher, 39, of Phoenix, Arix. - last year’s winner of the women’s Disneyland Half Marathon - took third place with a time of 1:25:12.
Kevin Broady, 45, of Brea, Calif., who finished first overall in the 2007 Disneyland Half Marathon, earned a notable Master’s Division (age 40+) victory this year with a division record time of 1:13.26 and a fourth place overall ranking.
Edith Martinez, 40, of Brea, Calif., was the top women's Master’s finisher with a division record time of 1:28:29.
In the men’s Half Marathon wheelchair division, Ralph Pieplenbos, 55, of Monrovia, Calif., crossed the finish line with a time of 1:19;27
Last year’s winner of the women’s half marathon wheelchair division, Kristen Messer, 21, of Austin, Texas, repeated this year with a winning time of 1:37:42.
Approximately 13,500 runners from 50 states and 16 countries registered for the magical 13.1 mile Disneyland Half Marathon this year. The field included first-time half marathoners as well as veteran runners. The course traveled through two Disneyland Resort theme parks and along Anaheim streets with landmarks such as Angels Stadium and Honda Center, while colorful Disney characters and festive music inspired them along the way.
Runners who completed the half marathon received a commemorative Sleeping Beauty Castle medal, the signature medal of the Disneyland Half Marathon and one in the Disney endurance series collection.
The Coast-to-Coast medal, a new award, was presented to nearly 1,000 runners who completed either the Walt Disney World Marathon or Walt Disney World Half Marathon in January and then completed Sunday’s Disneyland Half Marathon. The Coast-to-Coast medal showcases the iconic "Partners Statue," of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse.
The 2009 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend will be held Sept. 4-6, with the Half Marathon being held on Sunday, Sept. 6. Registration for the 2009 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend opens on Monday, September 1, 2008.
For more information and to view complete searchable race results visit www.disneylandhalfmarathon.com. For news media information, visit www.disneylandnews.com (Source: Press Release, 08/29/08)
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A Wave of Enhancements In-Store for the Disney Magic Cruise Ship as it Heads Into Dry Dock in September 2008
CELEBRATION, Fla. - An exciting collection of enhancements awaits the Disney Magic as the ship heads into dry dock Sept. 6-24, 2008. The 2,700 passenger cruise ship will undergo a series of upgrades for guests of all ages.
Here is a glimpse at what’s in store:
Indulgence and Relaxation
Quiet Cove, the serene pool retreat reserved for the enjoyment of adults, will undergo a makeover including upgrades to Cove Café, the pool and the deck area. Cove Café, the ship’s sophisticated coffee lounge, will incorporate a new seating area with plush, comfortable chairs providing the perfect venue to relax while sipping a cup of gourmet coffee. Meanwhile, the adult pool will be outfitted with soothing, cascading waterfalls from the two hot tubs. Teak deck and lounge chairs with plush cushions will line the pool, creating an inviting, stylish ambiance in line with the Vista Spa and Salon.
Fun for the Little Ones
The Oceaneer Club, a Neverland-themed play space for 3-7 year olds, and the Oceaneer Lab, a whacky and interactive laboratory exclusively for 8-12 year olds, will be enhanced with new registration areas that make the check-in process more efficient and hassle-free. This sets the stage for incorporating Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology in the youth activity areas later this year, which will further enhance and streamline the check-in process. The technology uses RFID tags embedded on wristbands, allowing children to simply tap a sensor to check in and out of the clubs.
Even the youngest cruisers will have a splashtacular time in
"Mickey’s Splash Zone," a new toddler water playground inspired by Fantasia’s Sorcerer’s Apprentice. This 385-square-foot extension to the Mickey Pool on deck 9 will feature star- and moon-shaped interactive fountains, a soft play surface and whimsical splash zones; creating an inviting environment for children not yet toilet trained and in swim diapers.
New Conveniences
The guest staterooms onboard the Disney Magic are receiving an infusion of technology with the installation of flat-screen LCD television sets. The new 22-inch units will be mounted on a swivel arm to allow easy viewing from multiple locations within the stateroom.
A leader in the family cruise segment, Disney Cruise Line offers three-, four- and seven-night itineraries to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Land/sea vacation packages that include a stay at the Walt Disney World Resort are also available.
To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500. Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888/325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com. (Source: Press Release, 09/02/08)
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SEAWORLD
From pumpkin fishes to friendly sea witches, Halloween meets the sea this October during SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular, carving an underwater "fantasea" where children can dance with an ice DJ, learn from a school of fish, and play with a sea fairy. Offering more than 2 million pieces of trick-or-treat sweets, SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular uniquely brings children’s "fantaseas" to life with enchanted pathways and charming sea creatures, providing the utmost in family-friendly trick-or-treating.
One of Sesame Street’s favorite residents, The Count, along with his friends from Sesame Street even gets into the Halloween spirit, with Count Von Count’s Spooktacular character breakfast. Little ones will sing, groove and mingle side-by-side with Sesame Street characters, while listening to Halloween-themed music and enjoying a special breakfast "boo"-ffet.*
SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular takes place October 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 24-26 and 31, and is included in a single day’s park admission. The event begins each day at 11 a.m., leaving the littlest of trick-or-treaters wide-eyed for the day’s activities ahead.
Spooktacular Highlights Include:
Trick-or-Treat Sea Sweets - Using their Spooktacular maps, costumed youngsters can search for hidden "fantasea" treasures at more than a dozen different stations, all featuring an array of sweet treats. New for this year is a healthy choice: Chiquita® Mini’s - a sweeter tasting banana that's just the right size!
Frozen Fun Zone - An ice DJ will melt the ice during a Spooktacular celebration sure to heat up the area with interactive games and activities.
Strolling Entertainment - Gummy Worm Wanda, Salt Water Taffy, and Swedish Fish Suzy are among the 35 fanciful sea creatures that will once again join the "Spook-tastic" fun, welcoming trick-or-treaters as they stroll through colorful, playful schools of pumpkin fish.
Wild Things at Seafire Inn - In this show, guest will gain a new appreciation for nature's most misunderstood creepy creatures as they take center stage at Seafire Inn.
More SeaWorld Halloween Fun:
SeaWorld’s Spooky Spectacular Sleepover (Oct. 17, 18, 24 and 25, from 7 p.m. - 9 a.m.)
Family members and their trick-or-treaters can end their night coming face-to-face with predatory polar bears and stealthy stingrays, before snuggling into a spooky slumber at Shark Encounter - just sleeping bags away from those terrors of the deep, sharks. An evening snack and breakfast also are included. Cost is $78 per person or $113 to include park admission; program is for children in grades K-5 and their families. For more info, visit www.seaworld.org.
SeaWorld Orlando is the world’s premier marine adventure park with 200 acres of world-class shows, thrilling rides and unforgettable animal encounters. Millions of visitors have explored the mysteries of the sea with up-close animal interactions and exhilarating experiences. State-of-the-art rides give guests unprecedented thrills, while amazing animal encounters include killer whales, dolphins, sea lions, sharks and more.
*Count Von Count’s Spooktacular Character BreakfastTM/© 2008 Sesame Workshop (Source: Press Release, 08/08)
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CityWalk Calendar And Venue Entertainment - September 2008
**SPECIAL EVENTS**
The Halfway to St. Patty’s Day Party at Pat O’ Brien’s
Saturday, September 13th ~ Starts at 4PM
Live rock band; Traditional Irish food and drink available; $2 Bud specials
Admission: $8
VIP Admission: $15 (Includes front-of-line and balcony access; additional drink specials, and a complimentary buffet)
Top Chef: The Tour Comes to CityWalk
Wednesday, September 24
Come enjoy live cooking demonstrations with your favorite cheftestants from Bravo’s Top Chef!
You can also shop for Top Chef gear, get autographs, sign up for a raffle and check out interactive kiosks. It’s a total Top Chef experience!
The Vera Bradley Event
Sunday, September 21 ~ 1PM - 4PM
Come see the latest colorful collection of Vera Bradley handbags, luggage and accessories.
- 50% off regularly-priced Fresh Produce item
- Gift with qualifying Vera Bradley purchase
- Complimentary refreshments
- Open to public, standard parking rates apply
**RESTAURANTS AND CLUBS**
Bob Marley - A Tribute to Freedom
Legendary Thursdays ~ 8PM - Close
1/2 price select appetizers and Red Stripe Beer specials
Entertainment
Mystik NRG ~ Monday - Friday
Chain Reaction ~ Saturday & Sundays
CityWalk Promenade
Bands play on the Plaza Stage from 6:30pm - 11:00pm on Friday and Saturday nights
Orange Avenue plays on Fridays, Saturdays and other select dates Hypersona plays September 13, 19, and 20
the groove
Nightly Happy Hour ~ 9PM - 11PM
Complimentary admission until 10PM
$2 domestic bottle; $3 well drinks; $4 call drinks
SKYY’S Infusion Fridays
SKYY drink specials, signature martinis, bottle service and more
Teen Nights at the groove
Friday ~ September 12; 7PM - 11PM
Come listen to live DJs spin all of today’s hits, and experience state-of-the-art sound, lighting and video
Ages 15 - 19 welcome. Bring your school ID or driver’s license for admission. Admission is $15
Entertainment
DJs nightly
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
Locals Night - Thursdays
Enjoy drink specials, live rock entertainment and a chance to win prizes
Guests receive free admission with a Florida ID or a college ID after 10PM
Happy Hour from 3PM to 5PM at Lone Palm and Margaritaville’s Porch of Indecision
Half-priced domestic drafts and House Margaritas.
Entertainment
Blue Stone Circle ~ Nightly
Lone Palm-DJ Bo Wilson ~ Thursday - Sunday
Patio ~ Live music nightly
Leonard Brothers ~ September 20
Latin Quarter
Ladies Night with Rumba 100.3FM - Thursdays
Reggaeton/freestyle dance party from 10PM - 2AM
Ladies drink free (select beverages) from 10PM - 12AM
Entertainment
Alejandro Kartal ~ Monday - Saturday
George Dimitrov ~ Sundays
NASCAR Sports Grille
Featuring the following sporting events on BIG screens:
- Football Season
- NASCAR races
NBA City
All sports, all the time!
Happy Hour daily ~ 4PM - 7PM
Pat O’Brien’s Orlando
2 for Tuesdays ~ Every Tuesday, 4PM - 10PM
2 for 1 Hurricanes; 2 for 1 domestic drafts and drink specials
Half-price select appetizers
S.O.B. Fridays (Shrimp, Oysters and Beer) - Fridays, 4PM - 9PM
- Shrimp - $.50 peel and eat shrimp
- Oysters - $.50 oysters on the half shell or fried oysters
- Beer - $2 Miller Lite drafts and $1 MGD & Highlife bottles
Entertainment
Dueling Piano Bar - Live music nightly
Red Coconut Club
Nightly Happy Hour
Sunday - Thursday, 8PM - 10PM; Friday and Saturday, 6PM - 9PM
$5 Martinis and complimentary valet parking
Ladies Night every Thursday ~ 8PM - Close
Ladies receive complimentary admission, valet parking and $3 martinis all evening
In Crowd Hospitality Sundays ~ Sundays at 10PM
Free admission for members of the hospitality industry all evening
Drink specials starting at $2 with your ID or hospitality pay stub
Entertainment
Special Guest DJ Baby Anne ~ Tuesday Nights September 2, 16, 23 and 30
Shifty Eyed Dog ~ Thursday - Saturday
DJs nightly
Universal Cineplex 20, an AMC Theatre
Burn After Reading - September 12, 2008 (Source: Press Release, 08/26/08)
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Get Ready to Meet The New Face of Halloween Horror Nights
This Year’s Halloween Horror Nights Outdoor Advertising
Pushes the Art Form to New Levels
Universal Orlando’s in-your-face Halloween Horror Nights billboards stay with you long after you drive past them. And they make for great, "I can’t believe they did that this year!" conversation.
This Thursday, Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights billboards will use a combination of creativity and sheer scare-factor to introduce a new face behind the horror; a new presence at the event. That presence will take Halloween Horror Nights - and its billboards - to entirely new levels.
The new billboards will be creative. They will be provocative. They will be larger-than-life. They will push the art form - and reaction to that art - to places other theme park billboards will not go.
So motorists be prepared: you’ll have some company on your morning commute.
There will be more than 80 billboards in the Orlando area, with some especially striking versions along the I-4 corridor. And as the below list of high-profile locations shows, the boards will be like a good scare during Halloween Horror Nights: they will seem to be everywhere.
Highly-Visible Orlando Billboard Locations:
* I-4 Westbound at Fairbanks Ave
* I-4 Eastbound at Michigan Ave
* SR 528 Westbound before 441 Toll Plaza
* I-4 Eastbound at SR 528
* I-4 Westbound at Universal Orlando Resort Exit (74B)
* SR 528 near Daetwyler
* SR 436 Eastbound near SR 434
* SR 436 near US 17-92
* I-4 110 feet east of Fairbanks Ave.
* I-4 .27 miles east of Fairbanks Ave. (Source: Press Release, 08/26/08)
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The Haunted Halloween returns to Hong Kong Disneyland
Darkness intensifies as it invades a whole new territory of the Park
Beginning September 26, 2008, for 37 heart-pounding and haunting days until November 1, 2008, an expanded and intensified dark force will rule over the Resort during the Haunted Halloween at Hong Kong Disneyland. The Darkness will return stronger than ever, extending its reach into Adventureland, daring adrenaline junkies, scare fanatics and the curious to step into this uncharted territory. This never-before-seen frightful experience will come to life at Hong Kong Disneyland this Halloween season.
The Dark Forces Expand Their Territory - All-New Haunted Experiences in Adventureland
The Darkness of the Haunted Halloween will take over even more of Hong Kong Disneyland this year.
With the dark forces expanding their domain into Adventureland, Guests will encounter the recently discovered Demon Jungle. Treasure seeking, tomb raiding explorers made their camp on a sacred burial ground enraging the demons below, who are now seeking vengeance on all those who enter. Guests will need all their willpower to escape, and finding the exit will definitely be a challenge. This terrifying experience is specially designed for Hong Kong Disneyland!
If Guests are lucky enough to escape, they will face another unexpected challenge on the Adventureland Haunted Trail. A Halloween-themed photo hot spot by day, it will be transformed into a mist shrouded trail on Friday and Saturday nights, inhabited with creatures such as Zombies, Gatekeepers and Pirates, as well as grinning Pumpkin Men that will have Guests jumping with fright.
More Traces of Intensified Darkness Found
Back by popular demand, the Resort's exclusive Glow in the Park Halloween Parade will feature more spectacular UV lighting effects as it glows in the dark, creating engaging experiences and spectacular effects. Jack Skellington as the Pumpkin King, Dr. Finklestein together with Sally from The Nightmare Before Christmas, Disney's Villains, zombies and acrobatic Red Devils are all part of the scare. Watch out for the rousing finale as the Ghost Pirate Ship makes its premiere in this year's parade!
The Main Street Haunted Hotel will reopen this year. The ghost of Victoria Maxwell will be up to her ultra scary antics at the hotel; there will be new spine tingling scares as she welcomes new and returning victims. Even Guests who escaped last year are welcome to check-in, but will they manage to check-out...?
More traces of darkness will be found at Tomorrowland as Space Mountain is transformed into Space Mountain - Ghost Galaxy. Get lost in the terror of a frightening soundtrack and the hair-raising visual effects, with scary apparitions and ghoulish monstrosities around every treacherous bend.
The immersive experience begins the moment Guests enter the Resort with all-new spooky décor including Pumpkin King Jack Skellington and Sally greeting Guests from the Main Gates. In addition, there are 160 all-new merchandise items as well as Halloween themed menus and drinks.
"The Haunted Halloween at Hong Kong Disneyland was an overwhelming success last year and it was only through the Disney Difference that Guests were able to experience a totally immersive and interactive Halloween event," said Maple Lee, Vice President, Marketing of Hong Kong Disneyland.
"According to statistics from Guest surveys, satisfaction levels during the Haunted Halloween 2007 reached 90%! This year, we have created an even more frightening and extensive Halloween experience."
With young adults in mind, the Resort will once again launch a limited time Halloween evening ticket for Fridays and Saturdays. Designed for entry after 6:30pm (the Park will remain open on these days until 11:00pm), night goers can experience the intensely dark Haunted Halloween at its peak. Evening tickets will cost HK$198 for all age categories.
"Last year, the majority of Guests visiting the Haunted Halloween at Hong Kong Disneyland were aged between 18 and 24. We are confident that our evening ticket will once again offer a flexible option to our young adult Guests this year."
Beginning August 27, 2008, day tickets and evening tickets for the Haunted Halloween at Hong Kong Disneyland can be purchased at the Main Gate of the Park, through the Resort's website, at the Hong Kong Disneyland Ticket Express at MTR Hong Kong Station as well as at select Circle K outlets. A special ticket booth located at the Peak will also be opened on September 3, 2008.
For more information about the Haunted Halloween at Hong Kong Disneyland, please logon to our website:
http://park.hongkongdisneyland.com/hkdl/html/halloween2008/en_US/index.html. (Source: Press Release, 08/26/08)
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