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Magic Kingdom

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John and Donna Gross
Authors of "Secrets To An Affordable Walt Disney World® Vacation."

"The Full Mickey - At a Discount!" The Wall Street Journal

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NOTE: News sources remove their articles rather quickly. If you receive a "File Not Found" error message, search the source's archives for the story. The source's URL is posted in its entirety to make it easier to track down the original article and avoid dead links. Be sure to copy and paste the entire URL in your web browser's address window. Certain news organizations require a free registration to view their articles online.

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Kim writes:

"I just read the article about the 5ft height requirement to ride in the front seat of the log on Splash Mountain. Is that going to be a new change? (The article says that the height requirement has been in place for two years.) I have a picture of my family on Splash Mountain from August 2008 with a friend's son in the front who was 48in at the time. I also have a picture of my family from July 2009 (just two weeks ago) where me and two of my sons are in the front row. My sons (who are in the front row) are 45in and 44in. So, if that's a current requirement, it hasn't really been enforced. Just curious... BTW, Thanks for all your great info. It's made several trips to Disney possible."

Kim, I was only aware that you had to be at least 40 inches tall. I checked Disney's site:
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdwi/en_GB/parks/attractionDetail?id=SplashMountainAttractionPage
and it says:

"Height Requirement: 40" (102 cm) or taller"

I guess it's not a rule that is commonly known or it's something that only the castmembers are aware of and they don't always enforce it. Thanks for your kind comments!

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Disney's Summer Nightastic preview - 14 photos
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/os-sg-disney-nightastic-preview-night,0,7753295.photogallery

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28th Annual Night of Joy Sept. 10-11 in Magic Kingdom

Christian ‘Artists of the Year’ Third Day, mercyme, Chris Tomlin plus Nominees Casting Crowns, Francesca Battistelli Top Star-Powered 15-Act Lineup

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Past Christian music "Artists of the Year" Third Day, mercyme and Chris Tomlin and 2010 "Artist of the Year" nominees Casting Crowns and Francesca Battistelli head a star-powered 15-act lineup set for Disney’s Night of Joy 2010 Sept. 10-11 when the long-running Christian music event makes its return to Magic Kingdom.

Also part of the two-night event (when specific acts play one evening each): David Crowder*Band, Family Force 5, Red, BarlowGirl, Group 1 Crew, Day of Fire, Smokie Norful, Lecrae, 10th Avenue North and Sidewalk Prophets.

From 7 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. each night - after regular Magic Kingdom hours - the special-ticket event will feature live performances on several stages throughout the park. In addition, guests can experience some of the park’s most popular attractions during Night of Joy hours.

Musically, the acts add up to a lineup that runs the spectrum from Rock, Hip Hop and R&B... to Pop, Adult Contemporary and Gospel - continuing a tradition that has been a hallmark of Night of Joy since 1983 when the event began.

It’s also a lineup laden with accolades. Ten of the artists have amassed a combined 81 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards and six The Recording Academy Grammy Awards. Twelve of the artists are nominated for a total of 33 Dove Awards this year. Winners will be announced April 21 at Nashville's famed Grand Ole Opry House.

Five artists are new to Night of Joy, bringing the event’s all-time talent list to 144 Christian music acts. The newbies:

* 10th Avenue North, the 2009 New Artist of the Year
* Group 1 Crew, which has carried home Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year honors the past two years
* Day of Fire, which earned the Rock Album of the Year accolade in 2005
* Sidewalk Prophets, a pop/rock group nominated for two Doves in 2010, including New Artist of the Year
* Lecrae, a Hip Hop/R&B artist who has garnered nominations in previous years.

Night of Joy tickets go on sale May 1. For more information about the event, visit www.nightofjoy.com. require a free registration to view their articles online. (Source: Press Release, 04/06/10)

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Magic Kingdom’s Cinderella’s Golden Carrousel to become Prince Charming Regal Carrousel
http://www.insidethemagic.net/2010/05/magic-kingdoms-cinderellas-golden-carrousel-to-become-
prince-charming-regal-carrousel/

World Showcase Presents Delicious Discoveries Oct. 1-Nov. 14 at 15th Annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
http://www.wdwnews.com/viewpressrelease.aspx?pressreleaseid=115119&siteid=1

Disney World previews its Main Street Electrical Parade for travel convention guests
http://www.gadling.com/2010/05/17/disney-world-previews-its-main-street-electrical-parade-for-trav/

Disney Monorail Trains to Feature ‘TRON: LEGACY’ Art
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2010/03/disney-monorail-trains-to-feature-tron-legacy-art

2 builders hired for Disney World's Fantasyland expansion
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/os-disney-fantasyland-contractors-20100225,0,3992160.story

Main Street Electrical Parade Lights the Night Again as Walt Disney World Resort Launches ‘Summer Nightastic!’
http://www.wdwnews.com/viewpressrelease.aspx?pressreleaseid=114533&siteid=1

What happens when things actually do sort-of, kind-of go horribly wrong at a Disney theme park
http://jimhillmedia.com/blogs/jim_hill/archive/2010/02/09/what-happens-when-things-actually-do-sort-of-
kind-of-go-horribly-wrong-at-a-disney-theme-park.aspx

Disney’s working to raise Guest awareness of its "365" & "Pirate" makeovers
http://jimhillmedia.com/blogs/jim_hill/archive/2010/02/08/monday-mouse-watch-disney-s-
working-to-raise-guest-awareness-of-its-365-pirate-makeovers.aspx

Pocahontas was once envisioned for the Rivers of America  and Disney to keep DisneyQuest open!
http://jimhillmedia.com/blogs/jim_hill/archive/2010/02/05/from-just-around-the-riverbend-
here-comes-a-brand-new-why-for-column.aspx

Magic Kingdom: Princess Tiana now holding court, putting on a show
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/2009/10/
disney-magic-kingdom-princess-and-the-frog-tiana-pictures-.html

The Laughs Are Still Fresh After More than 35 Years and 34,400 Performances at ‘Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue’
http://www.wdwnews.com/viewpressrelease.aspx?pressreleaseid=114000&siteid=1

Walt Disney World makeover: Magic Kingdom getting new Fantasyland with Little Mermaid ride
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/
orl-bk-new-fantasyland-disney-world-magic-kingdom,0,7274675.story

Disney to shift Night of Joy back to Magic Kingdom next year
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/2009/09/
disney-night-of-joy-back-to-magic-kingdom-hollywood-studios.html

‘The Princess and the Frog’ riverboat show coming to Disneyland, Disney World
http://travel.latimes.com/daily-deal-blog/index.php/tianas-showboat-jubi-5067/

Princess Tiana character revealed, Frontierland show on tap
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/2009/08/
disney-princess-and-the-frog-tiana-nabj-anika-noni-rose-pictures.html

Did you know? 5-foot-tall Splash Mountain height requirement
http://ocresort.freedomblogging.com/2009/08/04/
did-you-know-5-foot-tall-splash-mountain-height-requirement/13311/

Images of Disney canoe races at the Magic Kingdom
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/orl-pg-disney-canoe-races-072209,0,3658726.photogallery

Disney's Fairy Godmother isn't her usual dizzy self
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/2009/07/disney-world-characters-fairy-godmother.html

New Fantasyland or just plain fantasy? Look at (alleged) plans starring plenty of princesses
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/2009/07/
disney-world-fantasyland-expansion-magic-kingdom-princesses.html

Burning question: Where does pre-show end and attraction begin?
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/2009/07/
disney-world-wait-times-lines-queues-magic-kingdom-haunted-mansion.html

Fast Facts: The Hall of Presidents
http://www.wdwnews.com/viewpressrelease.aspx?pressreleaseid=113370&siteid=1

The Sculpting of a President
http://www.wdwnews.com/viewpressrelease.aspx?pressreleaseid=113369&siteid=1

Disney unveils faux Obama on the Fourth of July
http://current.newsweek.com/budgettravel/2009/07/disney_unveils_faux_obama_on_t.html

Hail to the chief: Obama makes Disney debut at Hall of Presidents
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/orl-asecdisney-hall-of-presidents-06062909jun29,0,1439332.story

Celebrating Citizenship, 1,000 Immigrants To Be ‘Sworn In’ July 3 on Main Street, U.S.A. at Walt Disney World Resort
http://www.wdwnews.com/viewpressrelease.aspx?pressreleaseid=113325&siteid=1

Barack Obama Joins Disney’s Hall of Presidents in Major Makeover Showcasing New Storyline, Music and Technology
http://www.wdwnews.com/viewpressrelease.aspx?pressreleaseid=113326&siteid=

Magic Kingdom Eats: From Quick Bites to Lunch with a Princess
http://www.wdwnews.com/viewpressrelease.aspx?pressreleaseid=113280&siteid=1

Details emerge from Hall of Presidents at Magic Kingdom
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/2009/
06/disney-world-magic-kingdom-hall-of-presidents-barack-obama.html

Stitch’s Supersonic Adventure to close June 27.
http://www.bizjournals.com/orlando/stories/2009/06/15/daily23.html

Tired of long lines at Disney? Now, there's an app for that
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/orl-disney-app-lines-061009,0,4318566.story

Wait may be more fun at Disney's Space Mountain
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/orl-cfbtourism-disney-060809060809jun08,0,3400989.story

Hall of Presidents to Reopen in July
http://www.wdwnews.com/viewpressrelease.aspx?pressreleaseid=113093&siteid=1

Flash Mountain: Disney no longer to screen for breast-baring coaster riders
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/nationworld/sns-ap-us-disney-breast-screeners,0,7967221.story

Scenes from Stitch's SuperSonic Celebration set-up
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/2009/04/
disney-magic-kingdom-stitch-supersonic-celebration-space-mountain.html

Yo ho: Pirate makeover coming to Magic Kingdom in June
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/2009/04/
disney-world-magic-kingdom-adventureland-pirates-league-jack-sparrow.html

Still bothered by the changes that were recently made to "it’s a small world" ? "Get a key and open your minds"
http://jimhillmedia.com/blogs/jim_hill/archive/2009/04/07/still-bothered-by-the-changes-that-were-
recently-made-to-disneyland-s-it-s-a-small-world-attraction-get-a-key-and-open-your-minds.aspx

Theme park etiquette: Reserving parade viewing spots at Disney and Universal
http://www.mickeynews.com/News/DisplayPressRelease.asp_Q_id_E_3169Park

Person reports alleged battery at Disney's Small World ride
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/orl-bk-disney-battery-020209,0,7242547.story

Disney loves a parade and asks you to celebrate
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/lifestyle/orl-bevil3009jan30,0,7027518.column

Cinderella Castle Royal Suite will stay open in 2009
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/orl-cindysroom2508dec25,0,1185499.story

WDW's Galaxy Palace Theater to be replaced with Cast Member parking
http://jimhillmedia.com/blogs/jim_hill/archive/2008/10/28/wdw-s-galaxy-palace-
theater-to-be-replaced-with-cast-member-parking.aspx

Renovations to bring Disney World's Hall of Presidents into 21st century The attraction is now closed for eight months to allow for refurbishment and the creation of a robotic 44th president.
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/orl-disney3108oct31,0,481688.story

It's Tinker Bell's week with Magic Kingdom attraction opening and DVD release
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/orl-tinkerbell-story-
102008,0,60056.story

Disney's Pixie Hollow
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/orl-tinker-bell-pixie-hollow-pg,
0,6418464.photogallery.

Tinker Bell and friends attraction coming to Disney World
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/destinations/orlando/attractions/orl-disney
2508sep25,0,2392922.story

Jessica Schel touched a water fountain at Typhoon Lagoon and won a night's stay at Cinderella Castle.
(http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2008/aug/24/30gtstuart-girl-wins-a-magical-night-at-
castle/)

"This years 4th of July show at the Magic Kingdom will be an all new presentation with new music and new name. The title of the show will be 'Disney's Celebrate America! - A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky.'" This has not been confirmed by Disney.
(http://wdwmagic.com/magic.htm)

"A Clermont woman who was beaten by another park visitor at Walt Disney World has sued the theme park, saying that its negligence caused her to suffer permanent injuries."
(http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/custom/tourism/orl-teacup0908may09,0,2834453.story)

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Walt Disney World Guests ‘Go Galactic’ In New Live Tomorrowland Show: ‘Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration’

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - He’s been called the "Guru of Gross-Out" and "the Maker of Mischief." Now Stitch stars in his very own live show, "Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration," an out-of-this-world spectacle that combines comedic quips and musical madness for Walt Disney World guests.

The all-new show at Magic Kingdom stars the cosmic cut-up from Walt Disney Pictures’ "Lilo & Stitch" as he invades a zany interactive experience at the Rockettower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland. Guests join in a Galaxy Day celebration when the outdoor stage comes alive with high-energy music, dazzling dance moves and real-time animation.

The 25-minute show features the same cutting-edge technology used in "Turtle Talk With Crush" and "Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor," letting guests interact with an animated Stitch in one-on-one encounters. The fuzzy, loveable alien officially known as "Experiment 626" spots specific guests in the audience, asks questions and entertains them in a playful and personalized way.

Whether Stitch takes digital snapshots of audience members or comments on clothing they’re wearing, the show is different every time. He engages audience members of all ages, making them the "stars" of the intergalactic interlude.

In the show, guests follow Stitch as he pilots a "borrowed" space cruiser. Stitch joins a cast of cosmic characters – including party host Tip Trendo, space diva dancers and two malfunctioning, breakdancing robots – on his celebratory journey to planet Earth.

"‘Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration’ immerses Tomorrowland guests into Stitch’s whimsical world using real-time animation technology," said Kristine Bunnell, show producer for Walt Disney World Entertainment. "And during this year’s ‘What Will You Celebrate?’ our show gives guests another reason to party."

"Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration" is scheduled six times daily. For more information about show times or Walt Disney World Resort, guests may visit disneyworld.com. (Source: Press Release, 05/07/09)

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The Pirates League Sets Sail in Magic Kingdom June 29

Calling all scoundrels, rogues and ne’er-do-wells – Captain Jack and the crew of the Black Pearl want you.

Starting in late June, the Pearl drops anchor in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom for The Pirates League, recruiting and training Walt Disney World guests of all ages in the scurrilous ways of buccaneers.

Each guest checking in at the plunder-filled pirate’s lair gets an official pirate name. Then it’s off to Muster Station for applications of beards and eye patches, scarves and scars, earrings and gold teeth - all done with the savvy skill of a veteran pirate who shares his own tales of sea-sailing adventures.

After the new buccaneers recite a sacred pirate oath, they are officially part of Captain Jack’s motley crew, leaving their old identities behind. Past a hidden portal and into the treasure room, the shipmates have their "pirate portrait" taken before being turned loose on an unsuspecting Adventureland - and no doubt feeling right at home at the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction.

Guests can choose from three daily pirate packages:

* First Mate Package: Includes bandana; choice of facial effects; scars; tattoos; fake teeth; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace;

* one 5x7-inch photo; and personalized pirate oath -- $49.95 plus tax.

* Empress Package: Includes bandana; shimmering makeup; face gem; tattoos; nail polish; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace;

* one 5x7-inch photo; and personalized pirate oath -- $49.95 plus tax.

* Captains Package: Includes choice of costume/outfit from selection; choice of facial effects; scars; tattoos; fake teeth; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace; three 5x7-inch photos; and personalized pirate oath -- $124.95 plus tax.

Newly donned swashbucklers can test their pirate prowess on the streets of Adventureland where they search for clues and discover treasures. And for mateys who need a little more training, learn the secrets for survival by the captain himself during "Captain Jack Sparrow’s Pirate Tutorial."

Boys, girls and grownups ready for the pirate life can start the process by calling 407/WDW-CREW beginning May 11. For more information about The Pirates League, visit disneyworld.com/crew. (Source: Press Release, 05/11/09)

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Magic Kingdom Hosts Bash with Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Interactive wizardry that combines comedy, real-time animation and live musical madness will dazzle guests during Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom.

Beginning in May, Stitch will host a zany interactive experience at the new Rockettower Plaza Stage. Guests are invited to participate in a Galaxy Day celebration when the new outdoor stage comes to life with music and a giant LED screen displays real-time, interactive animation.

The new show incorporates the same interactive technology used in "Turtle Talk With Crush" and "Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor." Shows will take place six times daily. (Source: Press Release, 04/15/09)

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A member writes:

"John,

I am a life member of Affordable Disney. I would like my daughter, husband and new granddaughter to be Grand Marshals in one of the WDW parades. Or better yet sleep in Cinderella’s Castle. We have reservations in September 2008. It is a surprise. Do you have any contacts or people I can get in touch with. I would appreciate any suggestions?"

Looks like it depends on the whim of castmembers who are looking for visitors who fit a certain profile. The best tip we can give you is to wear Disney shirts and mouseears and show a lot of enthusiasm when you enter and make your way through the park.

Kim answers:

"John,

My husband and I just returned a few days ago from our 6th trip to Disney. This time, however, was the first time without children. Because we were there without children, we decided to take advantage of one of the tours. We did The Keys to the Kingdom tour. It was absolutely amazing.

Anyway, I thought I might a response about 'how to get picked' by a cast member. For simple things, a cast member asking for volunteers, wearing matching shirts and being enthusiastic really helps.

As far as being picked for one of the 'dreams' (Cinderella Suite), that's really just luck, at least how it was explained to us. They use a program called a randomizer to determine winners. The dream patrol will get very specific directions to follow, for example, go to Downtown Disney and pick the person sitting on the right side of the bench in front of Once upon a Toy or go to the Nemo show in Animal Kingdom and pick the person in the 8th row, third from the left. Thought that was pretty interesting.

Anyway, thanks for the great info. We are already planning our next trip later this month (with the kids)."

Thanks, Kim. Looks like those who are chosen to stay overnight at the Castle are REALLY lucky to be at the right place at the right time!

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Disney’s Favorite Pixie, Tinker Bell, Introduces Magic Kingdom Guests to Her New Fairy Friends

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- To celebrate the animated film "Tinker Bell," Disney’s most famous fairy and four of her best friends are featured in a meet-and-greet experience in Mickey’s Toontown Fair at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort.

To meet Tinker Bell and her fairy friends, guests enter a magical forest called "Pixie Hollow," a special place deep in the heart of Never Land.

Tinker Bell, made famous in the 1953 Disney animated classic "Peter Pan," for her "hostess" role in Disney television specials and for "flying" above the Disney theme parks, is joined inside Pixie Hollow by four fairy friends: Fawn, an animal fairy; Iridessa, a light fairy; Rosetta, a garden fairy; and Silvermist, a water fairy.

In addition to meeting the Fairies at Magic Kingdom, guests can learn more about the Disney Fairies at www.disneyfairies.com.

And if Tinker Bell doesn’t "ring a bell" or jog a memory, here are some "fun fairy facts" about the sprightly pixie:

# Tinker Bell debuted at Walt Disney World Resort in 1971, as the classic attraction Peter Pan’s Flight opened in Fantasyland. The beloved attraction immerses guests in the "Peter Pan" story as passengers board flying pirate ships bound for Never Land.

# Tinker Bell began "flying" from high atop Cinderella Castle in 1985. Since then, she has taken her flight thousands of times to light the sky with magical fireworks.

# Tinker Bell made her Walt Disney World parade debut in 2007. She made that premiere appearance atop a float in "Disney’s Enchanted Adventures Parade," an entertainment extravaganza during Disney’s Pirate and Princess Party.

# Tinker Bell merchandise continually ranks among the top sellers of character-based merchandise at Walt Disney World Resort. (Source: Press Release, 09/25/08)

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‘Magical Makeovers’ Reign at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutiques; Young Princesses (and Princes) Receive Royal Treatment at Walt Disney World Resort

A new, second Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique doubles the fairy tale fun

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Aspiring young princesses (and princes) can now be treated to the full fairy tale treatment at two different locations during their visit to Walt Disney World Resort.

Magic Kingdom guests can get a pixie-dusted makeover at the new Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique located inside Cinderella Castle, Downtown Disney Marketplace guests meanwhile, can receive the royal treatment at the original Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique located inside the World of Disney's Princess Room.

When young princesses-to-be make their royal entrance at either Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, they are greeted by their very own Fairy-Godmother-in-Training who magically transforms them in the girl's choice of hairstyles -- the Disney Diva, the Pop Princess or the Fairytale Princess.

Girls can choose from three different magical makeover packages:

* Coach Package: Includes hairstyle and shimmering makeup -- $35 plus tax.

* Crown Package: Includes hairstyle, shimmering makeup and nails -- $45 plus tax.

* Castle Package: Includes hairstyle, shimmering makeup, nails, a princess costume complete with crown, wand and shoes, as well as an imaging package (one 6x8-inch photo and four 4x6-inch photos in a princess-themed photo holder) -- starting at $180 plus tax. Girls receiving the Castle Package can choose to be dressed as Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Belle, Snow White, Ariel, Jasmine or Tinker Bell.

The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique also features a special treatment for young princes. The "Cool Dude" makeover for boys includes a special hairstyle with colored gels, confetti and a "Hidden Mickey," starting at $10 plus tax.

All children must be at least three years or older to receive the royal treatments.

The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in Magic Kingdom is open 8 a.m.-7 p.m. daily; theme park admission is required. The Downtown Disney Marketplace salon is open 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. daily. There is no admission or self-parking fee required at Downtown Disney.

Advance reservations are recommended for both locations, and can be made up to 180 days in advance by calling 407/WDW-STYLE (407/939-7895). (Source: Press Release)

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"Those animatronic skeletons drinking wine and steering a ship may not be the only dead ones inside the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. A suspicious powder that may or may not have been cremated remains was spotted in the water in the popular attraction,"
(http://www.ocregister.com/news/powder-disney-ashes-1922542-ride-security)

Walt Disney World's Haunted Mansion: "Jim Hill begins a new series that takes an in-depth look at this Magic Kingdom favorite which recently underwent a three-month-long overhaul that significantly enhanced many of the effects found in this Liberty Square attraction."
(http://jimhillmedia.com/blogs/jim_hill/archive/2007/10/22/wdi-s-x-scream
-makeover-of-wdw-s-haunted-mansion-part-1.aspx)

For a video of Disney's current Halloween parade and fireworks show at the Magic Kingdom see: http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/2007/10/boo-to-you.html

"If you've noticed extra vats of eyeliner being carried into Disney World's Magic Kingdom lately, it's because Captain Jack Sparrow from Disney's megapopular 'Pirates of the Caribbean' movie series has been appearing daily in Adventureland." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 09/25/07)

"Night of Joy, a Christian rock gathering, has been happening at Magic Kingdom for 25 years now, but last night was my very first trip. The event was sold out, and it was crowded near the stages but there was room to breathe in the park, which leaves most of the attraction operating and a good deal of the dining." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 09/08/07)

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Captain Jack Sparrow trains youngsters in the art of sword fighting just outside the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Several times daily the feisty pirate and mate Mack entertain Disney guests with a fun-filled pirate tutorial. (Source: Press Release)

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Sandy writes:

"Here's a question that doesn't have anything to do with saving money, but I thought you might know the answer.....How are the grand marshals for the Magic Kingdom parades chosen? We noticed that they were always a different family. Any ideas?"

I recommend that all of you wear matching Disney shirts that stand out. Disney hats or mouse ears with pins may help as well. Arrive early and take your time milling around Main Street to get noticed. No guarantees, but that might do the job.

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Melissa writes:

"I have a question for you. My family and I went to WDW for the first time last summer. We videotaped Cinderella's castle and we walked through it a few times, but we did not know that you could actually go inside. I know that Cinderella's Breakfast dining is there (which we don't have any plans to attend because of the price); but I'm wondering are there other things available to do there besides the dining? Thanks!"

Anyone is welcome to enter the restaurant to just look around. There is also a gift shop on the ground floor. On our last trip, Donna and I entered the store and I joked that I came in looking for a $1,000 painting. A man next to me laughed and pointed to a picture on the wall next to the door which was priced at $1,000!

Mike writes about the Harmony Barber Shop at the Magic Kingdom:

"A friend told us today that on Mainstreet there is a barbershop where children can have a haircut, their hair dyed for a day, and glitter put in there hair. We are leaving for our affordable disney.com trip on Sunday night and wonder if you have heard of this."

Yes, it's a real barber shop. I know they have colored hair gel. I was not aware of the glitter, but that wouldn't surprise me.

Look for the Harmony Barber Shop on the left side upon entering, between the car barn and the Emporium.

Hours: 9 AM - 5 PM. Open all week. No appointments accepted - just walk in.

Haircut: $17 (adults); $14 (kids 12 or younger). Colored hair gel: $5. Beard trim: $10; mustache trim: $10.

Red Line

Cindy writes about the Magic Kingdom Barbershop:

"Hi John! Just wanted to share about the Barbershop in Magic Kingdom. My husband and daughter have had their hair cut there several times. They do have Mickey mouse shaped glitter that they will sprinkle on your hair when they complete your haircut. The colored hair gel can be applied in several different ways, but most often in the shape of Mickey Mouse. The barbershop brags that no two guests will have the same design in hair gel in the same day.

The most exciting service they offer is children's first haircuts (my daughter is lucky that her first three haircuts were there). When they cut your child's hair for the first time, they will give you a certificate commemorating the haircut, save a lock of hair and give you a pair of Mickey Mouse ears embroidered with "First Haircut" on the back. It was a wonderful keepsake. The beautician that did my daughter's first haircut covered her in Mickey stickers, so my daughter was so busy pulling off the stickers that she never even noticed that they were cutting her hair. They do a fabulous job with kids.

If you are lucky, you may also get a chance to have the barbershop quartet sing to you while you get a haircut. This happened once to us and was a great piece of the magic!"

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Billy writes:

"At Mickey's Toontown Fair what character runs the service garage? I say Pete and my sister says Goofy. Who is right or are we both wrong or it is someone else? Can you help us?... Love your newsletter. [It] helps me out when it is time to go to Disney World. [Helps] my sister too. It's great just to sit down and read The Disney News. The News shows how much time you and your wife put in the paper. Thanks again for a great newsletter."

It's Pete's Garage! You win! Glad you are enjoying the newsletter!

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Cynthia writes:

"Dear John, My parents are going to be at WDW tonight (April 25) and tomorrow in celebration of their 45th anniversary. I heard that Narcoossee's at the Grand Floridian was a good place to get dessert and view the fireworks so they have seating there for 9:30 pm tonight. However, they have asked if you know of a better place to view them, perhaps even a location within the park where they could have a seat, but not necessarily a restaurant. Any info you have is appreciated. Just trying to give them a magical time on this mini-honeymoon trip. Thanks!"

Have them go to Toontown in the Magic Kingdom and watch them from there. If they're early enough they can grab one of the benches!

Cynthia wrote back:

"Thanks John for the reply. I spoke with them last night and they had decided to go on to Narcoosee's in hopes of seeing the fireworks from there.

I called the restaurant before hand and told them that my parents had priority seating and that it was their 45th anniversary, and honeymoon. I asked if they could acknowledge the occasion to make it special for them.

From the account I received from my folks, the staff came through. When my parents arrived, the gentleman at the podium greeted them with congratulations and said that they were holding for them the best table in the house. That of course thrilled my father. The server then brought them a menu and printed right on the menu was "Happy Anniversary Alton and Gayle!"

After Dad ate his flavorful clam chowder and Mom her fresh greens, the server brought a delicious key lime dessert with a candle and more congratulations. The dessert was on the house!

Soon after, the lights went down and the music from the Magic Kingdom began. My parents sat at their "best table in the house," and enjoyed the much anticipated fireworks; after which the restaurant erupted in applause.

When I spoke to them later, they were strolling back to their room at the French Quarter and could not say enough about their fabulous day and evening at Walt Disney World.

They have one more day and are planning to attend the flower and garden festival at Epcot. I'm sure today will be magical as well.

Thanks again for the great book and information you give. We have been to WDW three times since buying the book and learning from the many tips you provide. We have saved money and time, and you have enriched our Disney experiences. God bless you and yours."

I love a happy ending! Thanks again, Cynthia, for your kind comments!

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Holly writes:

"I know (or think I know, haha!) that a 'soft opening' means an unannounced type - but is that only for passholders? One of my daughters and I..., are heading to MK this weekend (we are driving up to Orlando to pick up a prom dress, if you can believe that!) and want to try to catch It's A Small World; I've heard they are having soft openings for that and Soaring and a few other things.....Any inside scoops you can throw my way?? I did read... that Soaring was not open right now due to some snafu, but hope it will be Saturday afternoon....Let me know anything you think would help us Saturday?? Thanks!

PS - Had the opp to chat with your/'our' (LOL) travel guru, Beth, down here in Naples last month; what an awesome find she is!!! Yours in Ears!"

From time to time Disney offers a soft opening for AP holders only, but generally everyone is allowed to sample the ride on a soft opening day.

Yes, Disney closed Soarin' temporarily due to technical glitches. Hopefully, it was back up when you got there. People seem to like the changes to Small World.

Beth is a hard worker and a pleasure to work with.

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Magic Kingdom Continues

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