News Around the World
AllEars® Newsletter News Bites 1/31/12
AllEars® Newsletter News Bites 1/24/12
Where to Watch the Super Bowl!
Sunday, February 5, 2012, is the date of the 46th annual Super Bowl, which will be held this year in Indianapolis. Football fans visiting Walt Disney World who want to watch "the Big Game", have their choice of more than 40 locations outside their hotel room from which to view it, including many Disney resort hotel food courts, lounges and pool bars. Some notable locations even have special menus for the event, including the following:
-- All-Star resort hotels food courts and pool bars, which will add chicken wings and nachos to their menus.
-- ESPN Club at the BoardWalk, which will have additional outdoor bleacher seating and several big screen televisions.
-- Banana Cabana Pool Bar at the Caribbean Beach, which will show the game on two 40-inch TVs, and a giant projector screen with speaker system. In addition, the pizza delivery menu will be available at the bar.
-- Rix Lounge at Coronado Springs, which will offer a special buffet dinner menu from 4 p.m. until midnight for $12.95, along with drink specials. Reservations not necessary.
-- Old Key West will set up a big screen TV at the pool, and prizes will be awarded during the game. At Olivia's and the Gurgling Suitcase, there will be special menu snack items and a server will take orders.
-- Port Orleans Riverside will air the game on the kids' zone television in the Riverside Mill Food Court, while an additional TV will be added in the River Roost. The lounge will also serve special snack items like Chili Cheese Dogs, Buffalo Wings, BBQ Shrimp and Grits, Nachos, and Crayfish Bites, along with a Full Bar-Cocktail Service.
-- Yacht and Beach Club private dining will offer a "Big Game Feature" to serve 4 that includes a 26-piece buffalo nugget platter with blue cheese and celery, a traditional 16" cheese pizza, and 8 beers for $109, which includes tax, gratuity and trip charge.
-- ESPN Wide World of Sports will air the game in the Welcome Center and on the Jumbotron. There will be two tents that selling wings and nachos, plus there will be two bars open. There is NO admission charge. In addition the Grill will remain open until the game is over.
In addition, the Main Street Bakery at the Magic Kingdom will decorate their cupcakes in the colors of the competing teams, the Giants and the Patriots (Red, White & Blue) along with football decorations.
Starting time is 6:30 p.m. Eastern on NBC. (Channel 2 in Disney resort hotel rooms.)
AllEars® Newsletter News Bites 1/31/12
A new Epcot Innoventions exhibit is scheduled to open on February 3, 2012 called Habit Heroes . Sponsored by Florida Blue Cross and Blue Shield, the exhibit is designed to teach families and children of all ages how to live a healthy and active lifestyle. There will be 3 interactive experiences entitled "Control Freak, Sweet Tooth and the Snacker, and Lead Bottom".
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As previously announced, a new show segment in the nightly show The Magic, The Memories and You is set to debut February 1, inspired by some of the most romantic moments in Disney animation. Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World and "it's a small world" at Disneyland will be covered in red roses for one sequence and turned into a beautiful, star-filled sky for another. During part of the show, spectacular stained glass windows will grace the facades, depicting the stories of Cinderella, Snow White and Belle. The romance segment is planned to run through mid-April. After that, additional show segments are planned, such as a sand castle segment for summer.
Be sure to check AllEars later this week for photo updates of the show! http://land.allears.net/blogs/dnews/2012/01/the_magic_the_memories_and_you.html
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Recently announced resort pool slide refurbishments:
The Nanea Volcano Pool slide at Disney's Polynesian Resort will be under refurbishment from January 30 - April 1, 2012. Guests may use the Nanea Volcano pool; however, the slide will be down for four weeks beginning February 6, 2012. Guests wanting access to a pool slide can take pontoon transportation to Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
The Feature Pool Slide at Disney's Contemporary Resort will be closed from January 5 to February 18. The pool will remain open. Watercraft transportation is available to the Beach Pool at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa for Guests who wish to enjoy a slide experience.
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Complimentary resort guest newspapers will no longer be delivered to your door beginning January 30 at the following resorts: Animal Kingdom Lodge, Boardwalk Inn, Contemporary, Grand Floridian, Polynesian, Yacht and Beach Club and Wilderness Lodge.
This change will also effect Disneyland's three hotels.
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DINING NEWS
The Landscape of Flavors at Disney's Art of Animation Resort (opening May 31, 2012) will feature five mini shops serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. The shops are: Soup-Salad-Sandwich, Worlds Flavors Shop, Pizza Shop, Burger Shop, and the Grab n Go Market Shop. “The idea is that you customize your choice,” says Chef Ed Wronski, Director, Food & Beverage Concept Development, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “From burgers to pasta, salads, ethnic flavors, omelets, even parfaits and gelatos, everything is made fresh as you order.” http://land.allears.net/blogs/dnews/2012/01/landscape_of_flavors_at_disney.html
Tables in Wonderland has announced their February event called "Design and Display Warehouse" which will be held on February 25th. Guests will meet the Design and Display team, learn about what they do, see all the props up close, and enjoy a Buffet Reception with fellow Tables in Wonderland members! For reservations, e-mail WDW.Tables.In.Wonderland@disney.com with the following information: your interest to book, your name, daytime phone number, home address, and the number of people in your party. You will be notified on a “first-come, first-served” basis. Your credit card will be taken over the phone once your reservation is confirmed. The event is limited to 100 Guests. This event is exclusive to Tables in Wonderland members.
MORE DINING NOTES -- a weekly round-up of Disney dining-related tidbits, courtesy of The Disney Food Blog:
Cinderella's Royal Table has added a Breakfast Bread Pudding to the menu! The dish includes mascarpone cheese and berries.
Earl of Sandwich has introduced a French Dip Sandwich to the menu for a limited time!
Rainforest Cafe in Downtown Disney Orlando is undergoing refurbishment. It will remain open to guests while under construction.
For more details on other Disney dining-related items, along with photos, visit disneyfoodblog.com
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Residents of both New York and Massachusetts will receive a free night at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel when booking two nights at the standard price before February 29 for stays through February 6, 2013. In addition, residents of the champion team's state will receive a complimentary automatic room upgrade.
http://land.allears.net/blogs/dnews/2012/01/celebrate_your_teams_conferenc.html
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
The Disney Fantasy is 60 days from its Maiden Voyage! Check out more artist renderings from the Aqua lab! http://land.allears.net/blogs/dnews/2012/01/disney_fantasy_aqualab_1.html
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DISNEY VACATION CLUB
Tim Krasniewski , webmaster of dvcnews.com , shares current goings-on in the world of DVC:
Disney's Old Key West Resort has a number of refurbishment projects planned around the resort in the winter and spring of 2012 . First up are repairs and repainting of resort bus and picnic shelters. Work is scheduled to start on February 9 and will run through March 30, 2012 . Meanwhile, several buildings at Old Key West's Hospitality House are scheduled for roof repairs. This project encompasses the main lobby and Olivia's. The roof repairs are scheduled to last from February 23 to May 16, 2012. While refurbishment projects are under way, workers will take steps to minimize the impact on resort guests. Note that all refurbishment dates are approximate. Exact start and end dates may vary.
Disney Vacation Club introduced its online reservation system about a week ago. Check out our Frequently Asked Questions regarding the online system to aid members as they begin to navigate this useful tool. NOTE: Deb Wills used the system to reserve a DVC room last week for a one-night stay. She says it was simple to use and so much nicer than calling! http://dvcnews.com/index.php/dvc-program/policies-a-procedures/1849-online-reservation-faqs
As Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa approaches its 8th anniversary, a number of painting projects aim to keep the resort looking fresh for guests. From February 9 through April 24, 2012 , the rockwork at the High Rock Spring pool will be painted. The pool and slide are expected to remain open throughout the painting project. Meanwhile, from February 21 to April 12 , the Carriage House lobby will be repainted. In addition, each of the 18 resort building exteriors is being re-painted--a project which began back in the fall of 2010. The building re-painting is expected to conclude in August 2012 . During each of these projects, crews will aim to minimize the impact on resort guests. Note that all published refurbishment dates are estimates only and exact project dates may vary.
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DISNEYLAND RESORT
The Inaugural Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend took place at Disneyland January 27-29. Kellie Nickerson wins the race! http://land.allears.net/blogs/dnews/2012/01/kellie_nickerson_wins_inaugura.html
Disneyland correspondents Laura Gilbreath and Lee Zimmerman dressed up for the race. Kudos to them and the Team AllEars runners who earned the coveted "Coast to Coast" medal in record time. Laura has more to say in her blog: http://land.allears.net/blogs/lauragilbreath/2012/01/inaugural_tinker_bell_half_mar.html
Cupcake Lovers Rejoice! A new cupcake kiosk has opened in the Downtown Disney District! ( courtesy of The Disney Food Blog)
AllEars® Newsletter News Bites 1/24/12
President Barack Obama visited Walt Disney World Thursday, January 19. In a speech staged on Main Street USA in the Magic Kingdom, Obama unveiled a set of initiatives to attract more international visitors and make the United States the world's top tourism and travel destination.
http://land.allears.net/blogs/dnews/2012/01/president_obama_at_walt_disney.html
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Kali River Rapids in Animal Kingdom will be closed for its annual refurbishment January 24 through February 9.
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According to a report in the Orlando Sentinel newspaper, Disney announced Monday that it would allow employees at its two U.S. theme-park resorts grow beards or goatees. The new policy, which goes into effect February 3, ends a facial-hair ban imposed by Walt Disney himself more than 50 years ago.
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REMINDER: Registration for the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 10-Miler , to be held September 28–29, 2012, opens February 14.
http://espnwwos.disney.go.com/events/rundisney/tower-of-terror-10-miler
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The Walt Disney Company will discuss fiscal first quarter 2012 financial results via a live audio Webcast beginning at 5 p.m. EST / 2 p.m. PST on Tuesday, February 7, 2012. Results will be released at approximately 4:15 p.m. EST / 1:15 p.m. PST. To listen to the Webcast, point your browser to www.disney.com/investors . The discussion will be available via re-play through February 21, 2012 at 5 p.m. EST / 2 p.m. PST.
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MORE DINING NOTES -- a weekly round-up of Disney dining-related tidbits, courtesy of The Disney Food Blog:
-- Flying Fish Cafe is now offering duos of popular menu items; try the crab cake and Caesar salad duo and the potato-wrapped red snapper and char-crusted strip steak duo! Smaller portions of each so you can try all of the favorites!
-- Dining room refurbishments are underway at Wolfgang Puck Express in Orlando's Downtown Disney, with a mid-February completion date. The indoor dining area will be expanded.
-- A new pulled beef sandwich is featured at Tamu Tamu refreshments in Disney's Animal Kingdom, and it's getting great reviews!
-- Mix together chocolate, wine, and romance at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando every weekend in February with the resort's Chocolate, Wine, and Romance weekends! Book the "Do Not Disturb" Package for extra perks!
For more details on other Disney dining-related items, along with photos, visit disneyfoodblog.com
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The Best Friends Pet Care Treat Truck for Dogs will soon be visiting locations in and around Walt Disney World with free ice cream and cookies for canines. The colorful truck will be making frequent visits to the Fort Wilderness dog park, downtown Celebration and at Best Friends Pet Care on Bonnet Creek Parkway starting Thursday, January 26 through Saturday, February 4. The Treat Truck will also be visiting community dog parks in Orlando, Apopka, Kissimmee and Winter Garden. For the detailed schedule of stops and times, visit:
www.bestfriendspetcare.com/treat-truck-tour/
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
The Disney Cruise Line has unveiled new ports and itineraries for 2013, including an expanded portfolio of European cruises with new destinations such as Venice, Italy, and the Greek Isles. In addition, Disney Cruise Line will use a second homeport in Florida, with Caribbean sailings departing from the Port of Miami for the first time:
http://land.allears.net/blogs/dnews/2012/01/disney_cruise_line_unveils_new_3.html
The Disney Parks Blog shared the first interior photos of the Disney Fantasy after its "float out" last week:
http://land.allears.net/blogs/dnews/2012/01/first_look_at_the_disney_fanta.html
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DISNEY VACATION CLUB
Tim Krasniewski , webmaster of dvcnews.com , shares current goings-on in the world of the Disney Vacation Club:
-- As expected, Disney Vacation Club increased prices on three properties this week while incentives remain unchanged:
http://dvcnews.com/index.php/dvc-program/financial/1841-higher-prices-now-in-effect
-- The online reservation feature for Disney Vacation Club members is now live:
-- Fewer than 5% of all hotels in the United States receive AAA's Four Diamond award, but Disney and Disney Vacation Club resorts are well represented on the 2012 list:
http://dvcnews.com/index.php/dvc-program/owning-dvc/1845-aaa-four-diamond-award-winners-for-2012
-- On the heels of the 2013 Disney Vacation Club point chart release, many tracking applications and programs have been recently updated: 2013 point charts added to tracking programs:
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DISNEYLAND RESORT
The Happy Lunar New Year Celebration! at Disneyland continues through January 29, with character greetings, special food items, and live entertainment. The festivities take place in the Small World Mall area daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Read Laura Gilbreath's blog about the celebration here:
http://land.allears.net/blogs/lauragilbreath/2012/01/ready_disneylands_lunar_new_ye.html
The Inaugural Tinker Bell Half Marathon weekend is January 27-29. Events include the Expo, kid's races on Saturday morning, Never Land Family Fun Run 5K on Saturday night, and the half marathon on Sunday morning. TV sitcom star Megyn Price (Rules of Engagement) will be among the 17,000-plus runners taking part.
http://land.allears.net/blogs/dnews/2012/01/inaugural_tinker_bell_half_mar.html
EDITOR'S NOTE: Laura Gilbreath, Lee Zimmerman and several other Team AllEars® members will be running the half marathon. We wish them all the best of luck! Watch for Laura's blog about the experience next week.
The Disney Food Blog also shares some dining-related news and notes from around the Disneyland Resort area:
--The Disney Soda Fountain and Studio Store in Hollywood celebrates the Beauty and the Beast 3-D film with a specialty sundae. Indulge in almond praline ice cream, strawberry and caramel sauce, whipped cream, and a chocolate rose.
-- Disneyland's Downtown Disney may see two new popular and affordable eateries soon —Starbucks and Earl of Sandwich! Look for one of these to move into the old Compass Books location while the other moves into one side of La Brea Bakery. This is still a rumor, but a credible one.
-- Some of the pies to be offered at Flo's V-8 Cafe in Disney California Adventure Cars Land have been announced! Expect to sink your teeth into Dutch Apple-Cheddar, Strawberry Rhubarb, Mississippi Mud, and Blueberry when the cafe opens with Cars Land later this year!
-- Disneyland restaurants will be offering unique items and special menus to share with your loved one on Valentine's Day , February 14, 2012. Look for special treats at the Plaza Inn and Pacific Wharf. The Blue Bayou will offer a specialty menu including a duck breast entree and a caramelized pear dessert! Steakhouse 55's dinner package will cost $55 and will include Surf & Turf and a Chocolate Raspberry Tart. Wine Country Trattoria, Alfresco Bar, and the Cove Bar will offer a dessert package including two glasses of Magicale, 4 chocolate covered strawberries, and a single rose. (info from WDWInfo.com)
Everyone Can Park-Hop 1/19/12
Due to the expected crowds and potential inconvenience caused by the visit of President Obama on January 19, Walt Disney World is allowing guests without the Park Hopper option on their tickets (but excluding cast members), to move between parks. Simply present your admission ticket at park entry.
AllEars® Newsletter News Bites 1/17/12
President Barack Obama will visit Walt Disney World during a planned trip to Orlando this coming Thursday, January 19. There, he will give a speech and "unveil a strategy that will significantly help boost tourism and travel." Disney is planning heavy security around the Magic Kingdom and has imposed parking restrictions at the Contemporary Resort. Main Street, U.S.A. will be closed to guest traffic from park opening to late afternoon. When you arrive at the Magic Kingdom Main Entrance, you will be directed via an alternate route to other areas of Magic Kingdom. The Pirates League, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Crystal Palace, and Cinderella's Royal Table will all be open and honoring reservations, but allow extra time to reach these locations due to expected foot and vehicle traffic. (Harmony Barber Shop will be closed.) If you have reservations for a tour or at the Plaza Restaurant for that day, you will be contacted with instructions on how to proceed. In addition, Walt Disney World theme park hours for January 19 have been significantly changed as follows:
-- The Magic Kingdom will not have Extra Magic Hours as originally scheduled. Instead, park hours will be 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. The afternoon parade will be at 3:30 p.m., the Main Street Electrical Parade at 7 p.m. and Wishes at 8 p.m.
-- Disney's Animal Kingdom will have morning Extra Magic Hour from 8 to 9 a.m. Park hours will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
-- Epcot will have evening Extra Magic Hours, from 9 p.m. until midnight. Regular park hours will be 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
-- Disney's Hollywood Studios will be open 9 a.m. until 7 p.m., and will host a special fireworks presentation called "Rock the Night!" at 7 p.m. Extra Magic Hours will be held afterward from 7 to 10 p.m.
If you are staying at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel this week, you can find additional updates on Channel 19 of your resort TV.
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/the-daily-disney/os-obama-disney-visit-20120117,0,1018781.story
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Dumbo the Flying Elephant in the New Fantasyland's Storybook Circus area is now scheduled to open in its new location on March 12 (it was previously expected to open on February 17).
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Mor Thiam, who has performed in Animal Kingdom's Africa since 2003, will give his final performance there on Saturday, January 28, 2012.
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As of January 12, 2012, the Castle Package at both Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique locations no longer includes shoes, although you can still purchase shoes at the location at an additional cost. The price of the Castle Package remains $189.95.
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The bus loop at the Downtown Disney Marketplace closed January 16 temporarily for a scheduled refurbishment expected to run through January 31. During this time, the Pleasure Island bus stops will be the only Disney bus service for the Downtown Disney area.
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The Flying Fish Cafe is hosting another in its Winery Series Events on February 2, 2012. Special guests for the evening will be Jenny and Dick Dore, marketing director/proprietor of Foxen Wines in Santa Maria, California. Cost is $149 per person (inclusive of gratuity) plus tax. Seating is limited to just 32 guests. To reserve a spot, call 407-939-2398.
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The 2012 Flower Power Concert series lineup is as follows (subject to change):
--March 9-11: Jose Feliciano (Light My Fire)
--March 16-18: Starship Starring Mickey Thomas (We Built This City)
--March 23-25: The Guess Who (American Woman)
--March 30-April 1: The Spinners (Cupid)
--April 6-8: Chubby Checker & The Wildcats (The Twist)
--April 13-15: Paul Revere & The Raiders (Good Thing)
--April 20-22: The Turtles Featuring Flo & Eddie (Happy Together)
--April 27-29: Chuck Negron formerly of Three Dog Night (Black & White)
--May 4-6: The Orchestra Starring Former Members of ELO (Don't Bring Me Down)
--May 11-13: Herman's Hermits Starring Peter Noone (I'm Henry VIII, I Am)
--May 18-20: Davy Jones (I'm a Believer)
Shows are performed every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at America Gardens Theatre in Epcot, as part of the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival. Showtimes are 5:15 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. (There is no separate admission charge for these shows.)
http://allears.net/tp/ep/fg12/epcot-flower-power-concerts-2012.htm
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In other Flower and Garden Festival news, the schedule for the HGTV personalities who will be making presentations every Friday, Saturday and Sunday has been released:
-- March 9 - 11: John Gidding, HGTV's Curb Appeal: The Block -- presenting
-- March 16 - 18: Sabrina Soto, HGTV's The High/Low Project -- presenting
-- March 23 - 25: Jason Cameron, DIY Network's Desperate Landscapes and Man Caves
-- March 30 - April 1: Camille Styles, HGTV.com Entertainment contributor -- presenting
-- April 6 - 8: Dan Faires, HGTV.com's DanMade, Fan Favorite HGTV Design Star Season 5
-- April 13 - 15: Brandon Johnson, host of HGTV's My Yard Goes Disney -- presenting
-- April 20 - 22: Meg Caswell, HGTV's Meg's Great Rooms
-- April 27 - 29: Monica Pedersen, HGTV Dream Home Tour 2012 and Designed to Sell
-- May 4 - 6: Antonio Ballatore, HGTV's The Antonio Treatment
-- May 11 - 13: To be determined
-- May 18 - 20: Genevieve Gorder, HGTV's Dear Genevieve and HGTV Design Star
All presentations will be on the HGTV Designers Stage at the Festival Center. Show times are at noon and 3 p.m., and are included with Epcot admission.
http://allears.net/tp/ep/fg12/epcot-HGTV-presentations-2012.htm
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MORE DINING NOTES -- a weekly round-up of Disney dining-related tidbits, courtesy of The Disney Food Blog:
-- Japan's new outdoor sake bar is serving specialty drinks, bottled beer, and draft beer to quench your thirst while strolling in World Showcase. Try the Lime Sake Cocktail!
-- Tutto Italia in the Italy pavilion in Epcot's World Showcase is currently closed for a refurbishment. Its reopening has been postponed until April 28, 2012. Later this year, the Italy pavilion will also introduce the Gusto Wine Bar.
-- Target is now selling Disney themed kitchenware. Start your morning with cereal from a Mickey bowl!
For more details on other Disney dining-related items, along with photos, visit disneyfoodblog.com
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Between now and January 30, 2012 HGTV is accepting submissions in its nationwide search for the perfect family to help create a fantasy-filled backyard inspired by Disney Parks. One family will be selected to transform their outdoor living space into their own year-round recreational resort. If you think you have a compelling story and want to be the family bringing the magic of Disney Parks to your backyard, visit www.hgtv.com/MyYardGoesDisney before January 30, 2012 to find out how to submit your story, photos and/or a video to apply for your chance to receive one of this year's amazing outdoor spaces based upon favorite Disney Parks inspirations. The family selected for the makeover will be featured in the season finale of My Yard Goes Disney as one of the 11 Disney Parks-inspired makeovers in 2012. In addition, HGTV will take the magical inspiration inside as well in their special, My House Goes Disney, airing in March 2012.
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2012/01/casting-call-my-yard-goes-disney-season-two/
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Ongoing road work will cause delays and a number of lane closures that will limit left turns from Buena Vista Drive at the following intersections:
-- On January 17 and 18: Downtown Disney (Parking 4 entrance near DisneyQuest)
-- On January 19 and 22: Typhoon Lagoon entrance
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
-- The announcement expected to come out of Miami from the Disney Cruise Line on January 19 has been postponed. Expect the announcement to be rescheduled soon; watch AllEars.Net for details.
-- Limited Disney Fantasy Maiden Voyage merchandise is available for PRE-order:
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2012/01/maiden-voyage-merchandise-for-the-disney-fantasy/
The "random selection process" (RSP) for other limited Disney Fantasy items is outlined here:
http://www.disneynow.com/profile/web/index.cfm?PKwebID=0x247779117&varPage=home
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DISNEY VACATION CLUB
Tim Krasniewski , webmaster of dvcnews.com , shares current goings-on in the world of DVC:
-- Disney Vacation Club has published the point charts for the 2013 calendar year. Further adjustments were made, including increasing the cost for Treehouse Villas at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa and reassigning some Theme Park View rooms at Bay Lake Tower to Standard View.
http://dvcnews.com/index.php/dvc-program/owning-dvc/1835-2013-point-charts-now-available
-- Disney Vacation Club has announced the date of the 2012 Condominimum Association meeting: Thursday, December 13, 2012. Time, location and other details will be finalized closer to the meeting date.
http://dvcnews.com/index.php/dvc-program/owning-dvc/1834-2012-condo-association-meeting-date
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DISNEYLAND RESORT
The new "Minnie's Fly Girls" show starts February 17:
Disney Food Blog also shares some food-related news items from the Disneyland Resort:
-- Summer 2012 will see the debut of a new Alice in Wonderland themed rave, Mad T Party. This evening show replaces ElecTRONica in Disney California Adventure, and will feature new takes on some familiar characters from the world of Tim Burton's "Alice in Wonderland," as well as a live band, games and dancing, exclusive signature foods, beverages and merchandise offerings.
AllEars® Newsletter News Bites 1/10/12
Brazilian runner Fredison Costa won his second consecutive Walt Disney World Marathon this past weekend, finishing with a time of 2:19:01 -- just 14 seconds ahead of Adriano Bastos, who previously won six Disney Marathons in a row. Virginia Beach's Renee High, who is scheduled to run the marathon at the US Olympic Trials next week in Houston, won the women's title, crossing the finish line with a time of 2:48:33.
http://land.allears.net/blogs/dnews/2012/01/brazils_costa_establishes_new.html
Congratulations to the Team AllEars® runners who participated in the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend events this past weekend. They helped raise more than $67,000 for Deb Wills' Avon Walk for Breast Cancer fund!
Laura Gilbreath, who finished the Inaugural Walt Disney World Marathon Relay with her husband Lee Zimmerman with a combined time of 4:46:51, recaps the weekend's events in her latest blog entries:
http://land.allears.net/blogs/lauragilbreath/2012/01/wdw_2012_marathon_weekend_part_1.html
http://land.allears.net/blogs/lauragilbreath/2012/01/wdw_2012_marathon_weekend_part_2.html
Hidden Mickeys guidebook author Steve Barrett shares his thoughts on the Marathon Weekend:
http://land.allears.net/blogs/stevebarrett/2012/01/walt_disney_world_marathon_wee_1.html
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REHAB REMINDERS:
-- Dumbo the Flying Elephant in the Magic Kingdom is closed for refurbishment as of January 9. It is scheduled to reopen as part of the New Fantasyland on February 18.
-- Also in the Magic Kingdom, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is now closed for refurbishment until May 27.
-- Fantasmic! at Disney's Hollywood Studios is closed temporarily until February 13 for scheduled maintenance. There are no new elements planned for the show at this time.
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Disney and General Motors have entered into a new multi-year "strategic alliance agreement" that includes a partnership to develop a re-imagined, design-centric Test Track experience. The current GM Test Track at Epcot will close for refurbishment in April 2012, with an anticipated opening of Test Track Presented by Chevrolet scheduled for fall 2012. The re-imagined Future World attraction will transform into the "Chevrolet Design Center at Epcot" with interactive design and styling workstations at which you will be able to create custom concept vehicles. Also included will be a "SimCar" ride vehicle experience where you can put your design through its paces on the Test Track circuit. The post-show area will feature the latest Chevrolet vehicles in an all-new, state-of-the-art showroom.
http://land.allears.net/blogs/dnews/2012/01/disney_and_general_motors_rene.html
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From now until May 21, 2012, Florida residents can purchase a "Wild for Disney" 3-Day Pass for $99 (plus tax) or upgrade to a 4-Day Pass for $129 (plus tax). These passes are valid for entry into one Walt Disney World park per day. The Park Hopper or the Water Park Fun and More option can be added for $27.50 per ticket.
http://land.allears.net/blogs/dnews/2012/01/florida_residents_can_make_mor.html
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Cinderella's Royal Table is now offering the "Her Royal Highness" package to help celebrate birthdays for little princesses at the restaurant. The package includes a balloon featuring six Disney Princesses as the centerpiece on your table; a tiara adorned with crystals, officially crowning her princess for the day; a special 6-inch round cake, available in chocolate or vanilla, prepared by Cinderella's Royal Chefs, personalized with one of her favorite Disney Princesses (Ariel, Aurora, Belle, Cinderella, or Tiana) on top. The entire package is $90 plus tax and 18% gratuity (for a total of $112.05). For more information about this package, call 407-824-4477 or email wdw.crt.special.events@disney.com
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MORE DINING NOTES -- a weekly round-up of Disney dining-related tidbits, courtesy of The Disney Food Blog:
-- According to reports from Walt Disney World, the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor is officially closed for refurbishment through March 27 and will not be serving during that time.
For more details on other Disney dining-related items, along with photos, visit disneyfoodblog.com
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More upcoming events at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex:
-- The seventh annual Champion Challenge -- a U.S. Lacrosse event -- will take place January 26-29, 2012. The event features exhibition games including the following teams: U.S. Women's National Team; England Women's National Team; University of Maryland; Syracuse University; Northwestern University; U.S. Men's National Team; Notre Dame University; Denver University. The U.S. Men's and Women's National Teams will also host youth clinics on January 28.
-- The 2012 Disney Field Hockey Showcase will be held this February 8-12. This USA Field Hockey event is the ultimate place for top field hockey clubs to be seen by hundreds of college coaches looking for great field hockey talent, and features two girls' divisions (Under 16 and Under 19) in a number of tournament games. A schedule will be posted on the ESPN Wide World of Sports site on or around January 20.
-- Disney's President's Day Soccer Festival will be held February 18-20. New for 2012 -- the Disney's Club Championships.
-- The 2012 World Acrobatic Gymnastics Championships -- More than 600 gymnasts are expected to participate in the World Championships, scheduled for April 16-18, and the World Age-Group Competition, set for April 20-22. This will be the first time FIG World Championships have been held outside Europe.
-- The 2012 Old Spice Classic, to be held Thanksgiving weekend (November 22, 23 and 25) at the HP Field House at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, will feature the basketball teams of Vanderbilt and Gonzaga, both preseason top 25 teams, along with Clemson, Davidson, Marist, Oklahoma, UTEP and West Virginia. The 2012 Old Spice Classic, a bracket-format tournament, will feature 12 games over the three days. Each team will compete in one game per day. The two teams that remain undefeated throughout will face off in a championship match November 25.
For more information on these and other ESPN Wide World of Sports events, visit www.disneysports.com
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
The newest Disney Cruise Line ship, Disney Fantasy, floated out of the enclosed building dock at Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany on January 8, marking one of the final stages of this ship's construction and a significant milestone toward the March 31, 2012 maiden voyage. The Disney Fantasy will sail seven-night alternating eastern and western Caribbean itineraries. All voyages will depart from Port Canaveral, Florida, and include a stop at Disney's private island, Castaway Cay.
http://land.allears.net/blogs/dnews/2012/01/disney_fantasy_float_out.html
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DISNEY VACATION CLUB
Tim Krasniewski , webmaster of dvcnews.com , shares current goings-on in the world of DVC:
-- Disney Vacation Club members have a few more months to wait before they can purchase the Tables in Wonderland discount card. At the DVC annual meeting in December it was revealed that members would soon be eligible to purchase the dining discount card, but no specific timeline was provided for the card's availability. According to a Disney Vacation Club spokesperson, details are still being finalized. Current projections are that the dining card will be available for member purchase sometime in "early spring" 2012. That would place earliest card availability in the late-March/April timeframe. Also unresolved is pricing for the dining discount card.
http://dvcnews.com/index.php/dvc-program/member-benefits/1830-tiw-perk-several-months-away
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DISNEYLAND RESORT
-- REMINDER: The Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend at Disneyland Resort is January 27-29, 2012. It starts with a Family 5K and Kids' Races and culminates with a 13.1-mile run that weaves through Disneyland.
-- Star Tours 25th Anniversary tees are on sale now at Star Trader in Tomorrowland.
-- The Matterhorn closed January 9 for the installation of new bobsleds. There will be three seats in each sled. The attraction will reopen this summer.
-- Also, as of January 9 there is a new soundtrack on Main Street featuring more than a dozen new songs, like Meet Me in Saint Louis, In the Good Old Summertime, and Married Life from "UP".
Disney Food Blog also shares some food-related news items from the Disneyland Resort:
-- Blue Ribbon Bakery closed on Thursday, January 5, while the replacement Jolly Holiday Bakery grand opened on Saturday, January 7. Jolly Holiday offers a relatively extensive menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner items including soups, sandwiches, quiche, baked goods, and more. It's now the only counter-service location serving breakfast on Main Street, so it's been busy. (Laura Gilbreath has added the new Jolly Holiday Bakery lunch/dinner menu here: http://allears.net/dlr/din/menu/men_jolly.htm Also, be sure to check disneygeek Jason's Disneyland Resort photo update for pictures of the new bakery:
http://land.allears.net/blogs/lauragilbreath/2012/01/disneyland_resort_photo_update_11.html )
-- Carnation Cafe closed January 5 for renovations. When the restaurant reopens this summer, guests can enjoy new indoor seating... and FRENCH FRIES! Chef Oscar Martinez will be at the Jolly Holiday Bakery until the revamped Carnation Cafe is unveiled later this year.
-- This past weekend, Disneyland celebrated Dia de Reyes (Three Kings Day) with fun entertainment and specialty food items at Rancho del Zocalo and nearby food carts. This marks the first time that Disneyland has celebrated Dia de Reyes.
One More Disney Day 1/1/12
For the first time ever, both Disneyland Park and Magic Kingdom will be open for 24 hours of wonder, imagination and magic starting February 29 at 6 a.m. Plus, beginning January 1, 2012, DisneyParks.com is giving away a vacation package every day until February 29, 2012 and has an exciting special offer! Take part in One More Disney Day, then share with other fans at Let The Memories Begin.
-- One More Disney Day for Free! Spend an extra night for free at either a Disneyland Resort Hotel or a Walt Disney World Resort hotel when you book a Room and Ticket Package for 3 nights or more, between February 26 and March 10, 2012. Purchase before January 31, 2012.
-- You Could Win One of 60 Vacation Packages: Starting January 1, 2012, enter every day through February 29, 2012 for a chance to win one of 60 vacation packages for 4 to either Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort.
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/one-more-disney-day
