Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
THE DISNEY NEWS
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
March 12, 2009
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved.
=================================================
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Hi Everyone!
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.
Donna and I attended the Celtic Woman concert last night in Wilkes-Barre, PA. A wonderful show. See them if you can. They are still on tour until July, 2009.
Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - new Disney/Florida sweepstakes, new source for discounted Disney Villas, Florida resident discount, Lodge Special, and BIG savings in Vegas
* News from around the "World" - Pinocchio ready to party at Walt Disney World
* Cynthia and Karen write about taking the kids out of school for vacation
* Disney Announces Names for New Cruise Ships: Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy
* Disney Announces D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
# 3 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 42 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!
# New Source For Discounted Disney Villas: Beth, our travel agent, writes: "I now have a new source for discounted villa units at Boardwalk, Saratoga Springs and Old Key West. This is space not being used by owners and is not available at all times. Check-in dates are specific and most stays are for 7 nights only. It's at these three villas ONLY (for now). Complimentary airport transfers and Extra Magic Hours are included. Discounts vary and may not always be better than promotional offers for the general public. 100% refund if cancelled three days or more prior to arrival date; no refund (no exceptions) if cancelled two days or less prior to arrival, or for no shows and/or early departures."
# Florida residents save 20% at this Disney venue!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
New Annual Passholder Discount!
--------------------------------
LODGE SPECIAL - several locations throughout the USA
Book a 2-Night Stay by March 16, 2009 and receive 10% off our best available rates. Valid Now - April 30, 2009. Package Includes:
* 4 Water Park Passes
* Special Lodge Spring Break Activities
* Nightly Fireside Story Time
* Activities For Little Beachcombers
* Available on all suites
Beth writes: "Can't express how much I love these resorts for family vacations. If you can't make it to Disney, this is a really good alternative. A great way to combine fun AND education!"
--------------------------------
LAS VEGAS
Book early and save up to 30% at this luxury Resort & Casino! Expires December 29, 2009.
=================================================
Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 50 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:
* A week at Walt Disney World from $1375 for a family of four
* FREE airfare to Disneyland
* Disney's new Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary on sale
* WDW discounts for annual passholders and Florida residents
* Park discounts for military and Florida and Georgia residents
* Las Vegas room discounts and FREE nights
* Awesome deal on 3-Day luxury cruises in December
* Disney Cruise Line sale
* Disneyland California package deal
* Disneyland Paris special
* Universal hotel discounts
* Spring Training package
* Disneyland California hotel special
* Universal Orlando discounted vacation packages
* SeaWorld Discovery Cove discounts
* Luxury Cruise promotion
* WDW luxury resort deal for residents of this northeast state
* FREE nights AND tickets at these hotels near Disney
* Orlando Theme Park Package with hotel and tickets to 3 parks
* Luxury Cruise Special: Kids sail from $99 and $250 to spend
* Disney World: $1375 for a family of four for 7 nights
* Advance Purchase Rates at this Orlando Luxury Resort Hotel
* 100 free upgrades in hotels all over the world
* Massive cruise sale with FREE air
* AMTRAK special for Florida Residents
* Room discounts, FREE tickets and Package for military
* Room discounts and Package with Dining for Annual Passholders
* 2 Days for the Price of 1 at Universal Hollywood
* Unlimited visits throughout 2009 for $65 at SeaWorld San Diego
* Annual Pass deal for Florida Residents at Busch Gardens
* BIG Amtrak sale
* BIG airfare sale
* Downtown Disney Resort Hotel discount
* SeaWorld Hotel suite sale
* Kids eat FREE at Universal hotels
* Universal Blue Man Group discount
* Disneyland Annual Passes on a monthly payment plan
* Disneyland 4th night FREE
* Walt Disney World vacation package that discounts everything
* Kids sail FREE on Disney cruise line
* Kids stay and play FREE at Disneyland Paris
* 22 WDW / Florida / Disneyland / S. California sweepstakes
* Disneyland California package with $150 Disney gift card
* Universal Hollywood All You Can Eat Pass
* Save 50% at these deluxe Walt Disney World resorts
* 2010 Disney cruises now booking
* Get a FREE ticket to the Walt Disney World theme parks in 2009
* Nickelodeon Family Cruise
* Kids eat FREE membership card
* Disney cruise early booking discounts
* Vegas Resort & Casino special
* Disney hotel room and cruise line specials for Floridians
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
More parents feed their kids apples instead of fries at Disney parks
Epcot Flower & Garden Festival: It's all about the princesses
Disney Vacation Club Scheduled to Open Kidani Village, Second Phase of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas
Disney plans to go greener
Disney's Princess Half Marathon champion Liza Hunter-Galvan breaks mold
Pinocchio ready to party at Walt Disney World
New construction permits show that Disney is renovating the Newport presidential suite [and vice-presidential suite] at Disney's Beach Club Resort. Scroll down.
How to Treat Your Daughter Like a Princess in Disney World
Disney World's wine market no Mickey Mouse story
Disney moving ahead with Hawaii resort project
Fashion boutique TrenD to open March 19 at Downtown Disney
GM's last lap on Epcot's Test Track?
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
CityWalk Calendar And Venue Entertainment – March 2009
Sale of SeaWorld Orlando could be nearing
Rating Central Florida Roller Coasters
SeaWorld's new roller coaster Manta on track for May opening
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disneyland Resort Calendar
=================================================
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
Parenting at the theme parks: Put the kids' needs ahead of your own
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND HONG KONG
Hong Kong Disneyland launches VIP experience program
--------------------------------
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.
=================================================
Cynthia responds to the teacher who last week expressed her objection to pulling your children out of school for a vacation:
"Hi John,
In response to the teacher who is opposed to removing your child from school for a week of family vacation, I believe it depends on the time of year, and the age/grade of the child. I cannot speak for the upper grades, but as one who taught elementary school for many years I found that is doable if limited. On occasion, when parents planned a vacation during the school year, it was inconvenient for me to make arrangements concerning the work to be completed and to provide test times for those that were missed during the week. However, with help from mom and dad, and some extra time on my part, the student had no problem catching up. If a crucial concept was taught while the child was away, I would take time during the day, before or after school or even during recess, to work with the student… If possible, we would begin such work even before the child left for vacation.
Even so, if numerous students were to take such vacation time during the school year, it would prove problematic for the teacher and students… It would be too much to keep up with. So, I ultimately agree with the aforementioned teacher in that parents should wait until the break even if it means larger crowds. But, if you simply must take your young one during the school year, with helpful parents and a willing teacher, it can be done."
Karen also responds to the teacher:
"I guess it depends on the child. I took my daughter to Disney World every two to three years all throughout her education. We went during value season (not during a school vacation) because we were not as likely to stand in line for half of our time there. Also, it was much more affordable. My daughter graduated in the top of her class and earned a pharmacy degree."
=================================================
Disney Announces Names for New Cruise Ships: Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy
CELEBRATION, Fla. (March 10, 2009) – Today at the 2009 Annual Meeting of Shareholders of The Walt Disney Company, Disney announced the names of the company’s two new cruise ships.
"Last week, steel cutting began on our next two Disney cruise ships. Today I’m pleased to announce their names," said Robert A. Iger, Disney president and CEO. "The Disney Dream will set sail in 2011, while the Disney Fantasy will hit the high seas in 2012."
Similar to the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the names were chosen to celebrate Disney’s unique heritage of creating enchanting places and stories where dreams really do come true.
"The names are very telling of our brand and are part of our history," said Karl Holz, president of Disney Cruise Line and New Vacation Operations. "Disney is known for making dreams come true, and for creating worlds of fantasy that go beyond the imagination. The names are a natural choice for our ships."
As noted, Disney Cruise Line began construction on the new ships with a steel cutting ceremony at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. The first piece of steel cut was part of the art deco inspired scrollwork that will grace the bow of the ships. Similar to the scrollwork on the existing Disney Cruise Line ships, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the intricate pattern is reminiscent of the classic ocean liners of the 1930s, with added touches of Disney whimsy.
Since finalizing a contract with the Meyer Werft shipyard to build the two new ships, Disney Cruise Line and Walt Disney Imagineering have created a truly distinctive design. Over the next few years, construction will continue, bringing the design to reality, with the Disney Dream scheduled for delivery in 2011 and the Disney Fantasy in 2012.
The new ships will be purpose built with families in mind, and specially designed areas and activities for each member of the family to allow for both quality time together and wonderful individual experiences. The focus is to provide a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and kids can immerse themselves in worlds only Disney can create.
The expansion will more than double the passenger capacity for Disney Cruise Line. Each ship will have 1,250 staterooms and will each be 128,000 tons. (Source: Press Release, 03/10/09)
=================================================
Disney Announces D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans
Disney’s First Official Fan Organization Launches with
New Quarterly Publication, Web Site, Fan Events and Collectibles Line
First Quarterly Publication Features Exclusive Interviews with Tim Burton, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens, as well as behind-the-scenes visit to Pixar Animation Studios
Disney today announced the launch of D23 (www.Disney.com/D23), the first official community for Disney fans in the Company’s 85-year history. Through D23, fans will go backstage and behind closed doors to get the inside scoop from every part of Disney, while experiencing the nostalgia, adventure and fantasy of Disney as never before.
"We have a fantastic legacy that started in 1923 and is based on timeless stories, beloved characters and unforgettable experiences, but it’s our fans that keep the spirit of Disney alive year after year, generation after generation," said Disney President and CEO Bob Iger at the Company’s annual shareholder’s meeting. "D23 is our way of saying ‘thank you’ and celebrating our fans, who bring the magic of Disney to life every day in every corner of the world."
As a part of this new Disney fan experience, today also marks the launch of D23’s new quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; the all-new D23 Web site at Disney.com/D23; and a new collectibles line, The Walt Disney Archives Collection, which was created specifically with D23 members in mind. D23 also will host special events for its members throughout the year, highlighted by the organization’s signature event, the D23 Expo, which will be held in Anaheim this September 10-13.
A one-year D23 membership ($74.99) includes:
* Disney twenty-three quarterly publication: A one-year subscription (four issues) to D23’s new collectible magazine filled with stunning photography, dazzling illustrations and the ultimate Disney insider perspective. This advertising-free keepsake is the all-access pass to discovering the magic of Disney’s past, present and future.
* Membership Certificate and Card: The D23 membership card and suitable-for-framing member certificate – both specially created for D23’s Charter Year -- feature many of Disney’s most beloved characters.
* Surprise Collectible Gift and Member Merchandise: Each member who joins D23 will receive an exclusive collectible gift from the new Walt Disney Archives Collection. This merchandise line was created specifically with D23 members in mind, and each piece is authorized by the Walt Disney Archives. D23 members will have exclusive or early access to a wide assortment of Walt Disney Archives Collection pieces.
* D23 Expo and Member Special Events: The D23 Expo - to be held at the Anaheim Convention Center from September 10-13, 2009 -- will be "The Ultimate Disney Fan Experience," featuring incredible speakers, celebrity appearances, breathtaking exhibitions, interactive experiences, sneak peeks, film screenings, one-of-a-kind merchandise, and much more. All Disney fans are welcome, but D23 members will receive a discount on Expo admissions and early access to the show daily. D23 also offers unique members-only special event opportunities throughout the year.
* Disney.com/D23: All fans can stay connected to Disney every day through D23’s new Web site, featuring up-to-the-minute Disney news, feature stories, event info and more, but only D23 members will receive regular email updates on special event and merchandise opportunities exclusive to them.
Disney twenty-three quarterly publication
Disney today launches its new quarterly publication Disney twenty-three, a hybrid entertainment and lifestyle magazine that is the all-access pass to discovering the magic of Disney’s past, present and future. Its name pays homage to 1923, the year The Walt Disney Company was founded.
The premiere issue of Disney twenty-three includes exclusive features such as:
* Interviews with Tim Burton, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens
* Inside look at the new Disney/Pixar animated film Up, featuring interviews with Director Pete Docter and Producer Jonas Rivera, concept and production art, and a look at the new animated short Partly Cloudy.
* A rare look inside Pixar Animation Studios in Emeryville, California. Meet the Pixar team and learn the secrets behind the success of their films.
* The doors open for two of the most exclusive, magical suites in the world: the Cinderella Castle Suite at Walt Disney World and the Disneyland Dream Suite overlooking New Orleans Square and the Rivers of America at the Disneyland Resort.
Disney twenty-three’s regular featured departments include:
* A Walk with Walt: A look back at the trials and triumphs of the man who made dreams come true and whose imagination started it all.
* D Society: From gala movie premieres and grand openings to candid Disney moments and memories, D Society takes readers backstage and onto the red carpet.
* PHOTOfiles: The legendary Walt Disney Archives Photo Library houses millions of Disney’s most cherished photographic memories, and the Archives team shares its Top 100, five in every issue. Let the countdown begin!
* Where in D?: Try to identify where in the world of Disney each issue’s mystery photo was taken.
* The Funny Pages: For the first time in decades, enjoy the vintage newspaper comic strips that helped make many of Disney’s most popular characters famous.
* Making Magic: Crafts for children of all ages, inspired by Disney’s favorite stories and experiences.
* Recipes from Disney’s most popular restaurants and eateries, past and present.
Disney twenty-three subscriptions are available only by becoming a member of D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans. Individual issues of Disney twenty-three retail for $15.95 and are available exclusively at all U.S. Barnes & Noble booksellers, all domestic Disney Stores, Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World, and Disneyshopping.com.
DISNEY.COM/D23
The D23 site on Disney.com will serve as the premier online destination for Disney fans, highlighted by breaking Disney news, exclusive feature stories, blogs, historical retrospectives, a collectibles boutique, special event information, and other content. The D23 online experience includes News & Features, Walt Disney Archives, Disney twenty-three, Expo & Events, and Boutique23. Highlights include:
NEWS & FEATURES
* Late-breaking news, press releases, and photos of interest to fans from every part of Disney.
* "Twilight Bark" - inspired by the Disney animated feature 101 Dalmatians - offers up the latest tidbits and news "bites" from all around the world of Disney.
* Feature articles and interviews on current Disney topics from theme parks and animation to television and motion pictures, as well as historical retrospectives.
* Official Disney Bloggers – Get regular updates on films in production at Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, current Walt Disney Imagineering projects, and the Walt Disney Archives.
WALT DISNEY ARCHIVES
* "This Day in Disney" - A daily walk down memory lane.
* "What’s Old Is News" - Go back in time and enjoy rare, vintage and classic articles, stories, interviews, press materials and other highlights from deep within the Disney Archives.
* "Ask Dave" - Disney Legend and Chief Archivist Dave Smith answers your questions about Disney history.
* "Archives Library" - helpful Disney reference tools including biographies, filmographies, award chronologies, Disney A to Z updates, historical profiles and other archival information.
DISNEY TWENTY-THREE
* The online home of Disney twenty-three, D23’s quarterly publication.
* Expanded stories, interviews and imagery.
* "D Society: Online Edition" - regularly updated photo gallery.
* "The Funny Page: Daily Edition" - a delightful daily dose of vintage Disney comics that haven’t been seen outside the Disney Archives in decades.
* "Making Magic" - An archive of the unique crafts featured in Disney twenty-three.
* "Disney Dish" - Always be able to find your favorite recipes from Disney twenty-three.
EXPO & EVENTS
* "D23 Expo" - The official Web site for everything you need to know about "The Ultimate Disney Fan Experience" September 10–13, at the Anaheim Convention Center, including programming, show hours, celebrity appearances, keynote speakers, ticket information, vacation packages, and more.
* "D23 Member Special Events" - Throughout the year, D23 hosts special events created just for its members. Members can find out which ones they want to attend and how to register.
BOUTIQUE 23
* D23 merchandise and collectibles, including D23 member-only offerings from the Walt Disney Archives Collection
* Hosted by Disneyshopping.com
D23 membership
D23 membership is not required to visit Disney.com/D23, but some merchandise and special event opportunities are exclusive to D23 members.
Fans can join D23 at www.Disney.com/D23, all Disney Store locations within the United States, select shops at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, and www.DisneyShopping.com/D23.
About D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the wonder and excitement that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood. Through the years, Disney has captured the imagination of millions around the world, and, as requested by Disney fans everywhere, D23 gives them a greater, richer connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic. (Source: Press Release, 03/10/09)
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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.
--------------------------------
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.
--------------------------------
Affordable Disney Movies and CD's
Save 40-70% on your favorite Disney Movie or CD! Cheap shipping, too! Click here.
--------------------------------
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.
--------------------------------
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
=============================================
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.
=============================================
Updates From Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation
March 12, 2009
Copyright © 1999 - 2009 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!
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.
Donna and I attended the Celtic Woman concert last night in Wilkes-Barre, PA. A wonderful show. See them if you can. They are still on tour until July, 2009.
Now on with the show...
In this blog...
* Deals and specials - new Disney/Florida sweepstakes, new source for discounted Disney Villas, Florida resident discount, Lodge Special, and BIG savings in Vegas
* News from around the "World" - Pinocchio ready to party at Walt Disney World
* Cynthia and Karen write about taking the kids out of school for vacation
* Disney Announces Names for New Cruise Ships: Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy
* Disney Announces D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans
=================================================
NEW THIS WEEK
WALT DISNEY WORLD
# 3 new sweeps added this week to win a Disney / Florida vacation! That makes 42 active sweepstakes and contests to win a Walt Disney World / Florida / Disneyland / Southern California vacation!
# New Source For Discounted Disney Villas: Beth, our travel agent, writes: "I now have a new source for discounted villa units at Boardwalk, Saratoga Springs and Old Key West. This is space not being used by owners and is not available at all times. Check-in dates are specific and most stays are for 7 nights only. It's at these three villas ONLY (for now). Complimentary airport transfers and Extra Magic Hours are included. Discounts vary and may not always be better than promotional offers for the general public. 100% refund if cancelled three days or more prior to arrival date; no refund (no exceptions) if cancelled two days or less prior to arrival, or for no shows and/or early departures."
# Florida residents save 20% at this Disney venue!
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
New Annual Passholder Discount!
--------------------------------
LODGE SPECIAL - several locations throughout the USA
Book a 2-Night Stay by March 16, 2009 and receive 10% off our best available rates. Valid Now - April 30, 2009. Package Includes:
* 4 Water Park Passes
* Special Lodge Spring Break Activities
* Nightly Fireside Story Time
* Activities For Little Beachcombers
* Available on all suites
Beth writes: "Can't express how much I love these resorts for family vacations. If you can't make it to Disney, this is a really good alternative. A great way to combine fun AND education!"
--------------------------------
LAS VEGAS
Book early and save up to 30% at this luxury Resort & Casino! Expires December 29, 2009.
=================================================
Below are just some of the deals drawn from over 50 pages of current specials posted at our password-protected members-only site:
* A week at Walt Disney World from $1375 for a family of four
* FREE airfare to Disneyland
* Disney's new Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary on sale
* WDW discounts for annual passholders and Florida residents
* Park discounts for military and Florida and Georgia residents
* Las Vegas room discounts and FREE nights
* Awesome deal on 3-Day luxury cruises in December
* Disney Cruise Line sale
* Disneyland California package deal
* Disneyland Paris special
* Universal hotel discounts
* Spring Training package
* Disneyland California hotel special
* Universal Orlando discounted vacation packages
* SeaWorld Discovery Cove discounts
* Luxury Cruise promotion
* WDW luxury resort deal for residents of this northeast state
* FREE nights AND tickets at these hotels near Disney
* Orlando Theme Park Package with hotel and tickets to 3 parks
* Luxury Cruise Special: Kids sail from $99 and $250 to spend
* Disney World: $1375 for a family of four for 7 nights
* Advance Purchase Rates at this Orlando Luxury Resort Hotel
* 100 free upgrades in hotels all over the world
* Massive cruise sale with FREE air
* AMTRAK special for Florida Residents
* Room discounts, FREE tickets and Package for military
* Room discounts and Package with Dining for Annual Passholders
* 2 Days for the Price of 1 at Universal Hollywood
* Unlimited visits throughout 2009 for $65 at SeaWorld San Diego
* Annual Pass deal for Florida Residents at Busch Gardens
* BIG Amtrak sale
* BIG airfare sale
* Downtown Disney Resort Hotel discount
* SeaWorld Hotel suite sale
* Kids eat FREE at Universal hotels
* Universal Blue Man Group discount
* Disneyland Annual Passes on a monthly payment plan
* Disneyland 4th night FREE
* Walt Disney World vacation package that discounts everything
* Kids sail FREE on Disney cruise line
* Kids stay and play FREE at Disneyland Paris
* 22 WDW / Florida / Disneyland / S. California sweepstakes
* Disneyland California package with $150 Disney gift card
* Universal Hollywood All You Can Eat Pass
* Save 50% at these deluxe Walt Disney World resorts
* 2010 Disney cruises now booking
* Get a FREE ticket to the Walt Disney World theme parks in 2009
* Nickelodeon Family Cruise
* Kids eat FREE membership card
* Disney cruise early booking discounts
* Vegas Resort & Casino special
* Disney hotel room and cruise line specials for Floridians
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
More parents feed their kids apples instead of fries at Disney parks
Epcot Flower & Garden Festival: It's all about the princesses
Disney Vacation Club Scheduled to Open Kidani Village, Second Phase of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas
Disney plans to go greener
Disney's Princess Half Marathon champion Liza Hunter-Galvan breaks mold
Pinocchio ready to party at Walt Disney World
New construction permits show that Disney is renovating the Newport presidential suite [and vice-presidential suite] at Disney's Beach Club Resort. Scroll down.
How to Treat Your Daughter Like a Princess in Disney World
Disney World's wine market no Mickey Mouse story
Disney moving ahead with Hawaii resort project
Fashion boutique TrenD to open March 19 at Downtown Disney
GM's last lap on Epcot's Test Track?
Walt Disney World Monthly Calendar.
=================================================
OUTSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD
CityWalk Calendar And Venue Entertainment – March 2009
Sale of SeaWorld Orlando could be nearing
Rating Central Florida Roller Coasters
SeaWorld's new roller coaster Manta on track for May opening
=================================================
DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA
Disneyland Resort Calendar
=================================================
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
Parenting at the theme parks: Put the kids' needs ahead of your own
--------------------------------
DISNEYLAND HONG KONG
Hong Kong Disneyland launches VIP experience program
--------------------------------
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.
=================================================
Cynthia responds to the teacher who last week expressed her objection to pulling your children out of school for a vacation:
"Hi John,
In response to the teacher who is opposed to removing your child from school for a week of family vacation, I believe it depends on the time of year, and the age/grade of the child. I cannot speak for the upper grades, but as one who taught elementary school for many years I found that is doable if limited. On occasion, when parents planned a vacation during the school year, it was inconvenient for me to make arrangements concerning the work to be completed and to provide test times for those that were missed during the week. However, with help from mom and dad, and some extra time on my part, the student had no problem catching up. If a crucial concept was taught while the child was away, I would take time during the day, before or after school or even during recess, to work with the student… If possible, we would begin such work even before the child left for vacation.
Even so, if numerous students were to take such vacation time during the school year, it would prove problematic for the teacher and students… It would be too much to keep up with. So, I ultimately agree with the aforementioned teacher in that parents should wait until the break even if it means larger crowds. But, if you simply must take your young one during the school year, with helpful parents and a willing teacher, it can be done."
Karen also responds to the teacher:
"I guess it depends on the child. I took my daughter to Disney World every two to three years all throughout her education. We went during value season (not during a school vacation) because we were not as likely to stand in line for half of our time there. Also, it was much more affordable. My daughter graduated in the top of her class and earned a pharmacy degree."
=================================================
Disney Announces Names for New Cruise Ships: Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy
CELEBRATION, Fla. (March 10, 2009) – Today at the 2009 Annual Meeting of Shareholders of The Walt Disney Company, Disney announced the names of the company’s two new cruise ships.
"Last week, steel cutting began on our next two Disney cruise ships. Today I’m pleased to announce their names," said Robert A. Iger, Disney president and CEO. "The Disney Dream will set sail in 2011, while the Disney Fantasy will hit the high seas in 2012."
Similar to the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the names were chosen to celebrate Disney’s unique heritage of creating enchanting places and stories where dreams really do come true.
"The names are very telling of our brand and are part of our history," said Karl Holz, president of Disney Cruise Line and New Vacation Operations. "Disney is known for making dreams come true, and for creating worlds of fantasy that go beyond the imagination. The names are a natural choice for our ships."
As noted, Disney Cruise Line began construction on the new ships with a steel cutting ceremony at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. The first piece of steel cut was part of the art deco inspired scrollwork that will grace the bow of the ships. Similar to the scrollwork on the existing Disney Cruise Line ships, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, the intricate pattern is reminiscent of the classic ocean liners of the 1930s, with added touches of Disney whimsy.
Since finalizing a contract with the Meyer Werft shipyard to build the two new ships, Disney Cruise Line and Walt Disney Imagineering have created a truly distinctive design. Over the next few years, construction will continue, bringing the design to reality, with the Disney Dream scheduled for delivery in 2011 and the Disney Fantasy in 2012.
The new ships will be purpose built with families in mind, and specially designed areas and activities for each member of the family to allow for both quality time together and wonderful individual experiences. The focus is to provide a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and kids can immerse themselves in worlds only Disney can create.
The expansion will more than double the passenger capacity for Disney Cruise Line. Each ship will have 1,250 staterooms and will each be 128,000 tons. (Source: Press Release, 03/10/09)
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Disney Announces D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans
Disney’s First Official Fan Organization Launches with
New Quarterly Publication, Web Site, Fan Events and Collectibles Line
First Quarterly Publication Features Exclusive Interviews with Tim Burton, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens, as well as behind-the-scenes visit to Pixar Animation Studios
Disney today announced the launch of D23 (www.Disney.com/D23), the first official community for Disney fans in the Company’s 85-year history. Through D23, fans will go backstage and behind closed doors to get the inside scoop from every part of Disney, while experiencing the nostalgia, adventure and fantasy of Disney as never before.
"We have a fantastic legacy that started in 1923 and is based on timeless stories, beloved characters and unforgettable experiences, but it’s our fans that keep the spirit of Disney alive year after year, generation after generation," said Disney President and CEO Bob Iger at the Company’s annual shareholder’s meeting. "D23 is our way of saying ‘thank you’ and celebrating our fans, who bring the magic of Disney to life every day in every corner of the world."
As a part of this new Disney fan experience, today also marks the launch of D23’s new quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; the all-new D23 Web site at Disney.com/D23; and a new collectibles line, The Walt Disney Archives Collection, which was created specifically with D23 members in mind. D23 also will host special events for its members throughout the year, highlighted by the organization’s signature event, the D23 Expo, which will be held in Anaheim this September 10-13.
A one-year D23 membership ($74.99) includes:
* Disney twenty-three quarterly publication: A one-year subscription (four issues) to D23’s new collectible magazine filled with stunning photography, dazzling illustrations and the ultimate Disney insider perspective. This advertising-free keepsake is the all-access pass to discovering the magic of Disney’s past, present and future.
* Membership Certificate and Card: The D23 membership card and suitable-for-framing member certificate – both specially created for D23’s Charter Year -- feature many of Disney’s most beloved characters.
* Surprise Collectible Gift and Member Merchandise: Each member who joins D23 will receive an exclusive collectible gift from the new Walt Disney Archives Collection. This merchandise line was created specifically with D23 members in mind, and each piece is authorized by the Walt Disney Archives. D23 members will have exclusive or early access to a wide assortment of Walt Disney Archives Collection pieces.
* D23 Expo and Member Special Events: The D23 Expo - to be held at the Anaheim Convention Center from September 10-13, 2009 -- will be "The Ultimate Disney Fan Experience," featuring incredible speakers, celebrity appearances, breathtaking exhibitions, interactive experiences, sneak peeks, film screenings, one-of-a-kind merchandise, and much more. All Disney fans are welcome, but D23 members will receive a discount on Expo admissions and early access to the show daily. D23 also offers unique members-only special event opportunities throughout the year.
* Disney.com/D23: All fans can stay connected to Disney every day through D23’s new Web site, featuring up-to-the-minute Disney news, feature stories, event info and more, but only D23 members will receive regular email updates on special event and merchandise opportunities exclusive to them.
Disney twenty-three quarterly publication
Disney today launches its new quarterly publication Disney twenty-three, a hybrid entertainment and lifestyle magazine that is the all-access pass to discovering the magic of Disney’s past, present and future. Its name pays homage to 1923, the year The Walt Disney Company was founded.
The premiere issue of Disney twenty-three includes exclusive features such as:
* Interviews with Tim Burton, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens
* Inside look at the new Disney/Pixar animated film Up, featuring interviews with Director Pete Docter and Producer Jonas Rivera, concept and production art, and a look at the new animated short Partly Cloudy.
* A rare look inside Pixar Animation Studios in Emeryville, California. Meet the Pixar team and learn the secrets behind the success of their films.
* The doors open for two of the most exclusive, magical suites in the world: the Cinderella Castle Suite at Walt Disney World and the Disneyland Dream Suite overlooking New Orleans Square and the Rivers of America at the Disneyland Resort.
Disney twenty-three’s regular featured departments include:
* A Walk with Walt: A look back at the trials and triumphs of the man who made dreams come true and whose imagination started it all.
* D Society: From gala movie premieres and grand openings to candid Disney moments and memories, D Society takes readers backstage and onto the red carpet.
* PHOTOfiles: The legendary Walt Disney Archives Photo Library houses millions of Disney’s most cherished photographic memories, and the Archives team shares its Top 100, five in every issue. Let the countdown begin!
* Where in D?: Try to identify where in the world of Disney each issue’s mystery photo was taken.
* The Funny Pages: For the first time in decades, enjoy the vintage newspaper comic strips that helped make many of Disney’s most popular characters famous.
* Making Magic: Crafts for children of all ages, inspired by Disney’s favorite stories and experiences.
* Recipes from Disney’s most popular restaurants and eateries, past and present.
Disney twenty-three subscriptions are available only by becoming a member of D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans. Individual issues of Disney twenty-three retail for $15.95 and are available exclusively at all U.S. Barnes & Noble booksellers, all domestic Disney Stores, Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World, and Disneyshopping.com.
DISNEY.COM/D23
The D23 site on Disney.com will serve as the premier online destination for Disney fans, highlighted by breaking Disney news, exclusive feature stories, blogs, historical retrospectives, a collectibles boutique, special event information, and other content. The D23 online experience includes News & Features, Walt Disney Archives, Disney twenty-three, Expo & Events, and Boutique23. Highlights include:
NEWS & FEATURES
* Late-breaking news, press releases, and photos of interest to fans from every part of Disney.
* "Twilight Bark" - inspired by the Disney animated feature 101 Dalmatians - offers up the latest tidbits and news "bites" from all around the world of Disney.
* Feature articles and interviews on current Disney topics from theme parks and animation to television and motion pictures, as well as historical retrospectives.
* Official Disney Bloggers – Get regular updates on films in production at Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, current Walt Disney Imagineering projects, and the Walt Disney Archives.
WALT DISNEY ARCHIVES
* "This Day in Disney" - A daily walk down memory lane.
* "What’s Old Is News" - Go back in time and enjoy rare, vintage and classic articles, stories, interviews, press materials and other highlights from deep within the Disney Archives.
* "Ask Dave" - Disney Legend and Chief Archivist Dave Smith answers your questions about Disney history.
* "Archives Library" - helpful Disney reference tools including biographies, filmographies, award chronologies, Disney A to Z updates, historical profiles and other archival information.
DISNEY TWENTY-THREE
* The online home of Disney twenty-three, D23’s quarterly publication.
* Expanded stories, interviews and imagery.
* "D Society: Online Edition" - regularly updated photo gallery.
* "The Funny Page: Daily Edition" - a delightful daily dose of vintage Disney comics that haven’t been seen outside the Disney Archives in decades.
* "Making Magic" - An archive of the unique crafts featured in Disney twenty-three.
* "Disney Dish" - Always be able to find your favorite recipes from Disney twenty-three.
EXPO & EVENTS
* "D23 Expo" - The official Web site for everything you need to know about "The Ultimate Disney Fan Experience" September 10–13, at the Anaheim Convention Center, including programming, show hours, celebrity appearances, keynote speakers, ticket information, vacation packages, and more.
* "D23 Member Special Events" - Throughout the year, D23 hosts special events created just for its members. Members can find out which ones they want to attend and how to register.
BOUTIQUE 23
* D23 merchandise and collectibles, including D23 member-only offerings from the Walt Disney Archives Collection
* Hosted by Disneyshopping.com
D23 membership
D23 membership is not required to visit Disney.com/D23, but some merchandise and special event opportunities are exclusive to D23 members.
Fans can join D23 at www.Disney.com/D23, all Disney Store locations within the United States, select shops at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, and www.DisneyShopping.com/D23.
About D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the wonder and excitement that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood. Through the years, Disney has captured the imagination of millions around the world, and, as requested by Disney fans everywhere, D23 gives them a greater, richer connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic. (Source: Press Release, 03/10/09)
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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
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See You Real Soon!
John
AffordableDisney.Com.
johngross@affordabledisney.com
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posted by AffordableDisney.Com at 6:30 AM
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