MFL News & Deals – March 6, 2010
WDW NEWS
• Nearly twice as many runners as last year are rushing to bring out their inner princess this weekend at Disney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend. 18,000 plus runners, including 13,000 for the half marathon are registered for the three-day event aimed at women’s health and wellness, making it one of the largest women-specific endurance events in the country.
• We’ve all heard about the Candy Lady, Miyuki Sugimori, who practices her unusual art in Japan’s Pavilion at Epcot’s World Showcase. The Bruce WDW blog has photos and videos.
<http://tinyurl.com/yah7dev>
• DIS Unplugged has uploaded a nice video the Epoct International Flower & Garden Show with a great peek at the butterfly garden.
<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wcLLA4Z2lTs>
• Glass high heel running slipper? Has Disney lost their collective mind?
<http://tinyurl.com/yjskcxd>
• A Walt Disney World Disney college intern finds magic in “overqualified” and “underpaid”.
<http://tinyurl.com/yczc52b>
• DizFanatic.com has concept art of the new pool coming to the Paddock section of the Saratoga Springs Resort.
Photo 1: <http://tinyurl.com/ydwbp38>
Photo 2: <http://tinyurl.com/ydq7b3w>
• Attention seafood lovers! A new Orlando restaurant, Big Fin Seafood Kitchen, is offering 1.5 lb lobster meal for $16.95 on Monday nights!
<http://ow.ly/1aTOY>
• Disney Vacation Club has scheduled a new series of promotional webcasts for March 23, 25 and 27, 2010. Previous webcast events have been noteworthy for providing added discounts for the purchase of DVC points, plus a free lithograph to all participants. Separate sessions are available for current and prospective members. Get a Disney Character Lithograph just for watching. Visit DVC for more details.
<http://tinyurl.com/yebvltz>
• There were lots of little announcements coming out of the D23 Anniversary Event at Magic Kingdom last night. Here are some tweets we saw:
- Steven Clark, head of D23 and Studio Archives manager, Becky Cline, were in attendance
-Guests will enter Maurice’s Cottage for Enchanted Tales with Belle. First, guests will hear the story of the magic mirror that lets Maurice keep watch on Belle. Guests will then enter the mirror to act out Belle’s favorite stories.
-When guests meet Cinderella, she will initially be dressed in rags. The Fairy Godmother will lead a group of about 30 to 40 guest in a round of Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo and Cinderella will transition in to a ball gown before guests eyes. Other opportunities to interact with Cinderella, such as dancing, may be available.
-Enter the woodcutter’s cottage to create a birthday surprise card for Sleeping Beauty and then take part in a surprise party with some type of interaction.
-Guest will get to spend a significant amount of time, approximately 10 minutes, with the princesses.
-Under the Sea: Journey of the Little Mermaid will be a dark ride and the big E-ticket attraction. No other details.
-Tentatively, the two Dumbos will be located just above the Teacups, although this location does not seem to be set in stone.
-Walt Disney Imagineering will be creating a virtual walk through model from guests point of view in addition to other table top models we have seen on the net. Topography of the expanded area will have rolling hills and attention to detail such a rock formation.
-Disney has not yet made any decisions on the Barnstormer theming but it’s staying.
-The Toontown Train Station will remain in place but may get refurbishment.
-It is undecided whether Dumbo will have a water feature.
-When asked, Imagineer Mark Cole did not have a specific closure date for Toontown.
-Mickey and Minnie’s houses will not be eliminated but details were evasive as to what it meant.
-Disney will also focus on the boys with the expansion of Fantasyland.
-There could possibly be something such as knight training.
-The Fantasy Forest phase should be completed by October 2010 and Pixie Hollow a year later.
- Overall, the impression is that much of the plans we saw are not set in stone at this point, and particularly details of Pixie Hollow.
-Disney is expected to make a big announcement concerning the next D23 Expo some time soon.
-Rumors on the net have been that there is a big event in the works for 2010 to replace the D23 Expo for 2010 that will be made at the annual shareholder’s meeting on March 10.
-More D23 Events will be announced and offer this year but no additional details, other to mention a inside The Great Movie Ride .
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DISNEYLAND NEWS
• The Orange County Register has a preview of Cars Land, the 12-acre addition to Disney’s California Adventure, which will include three new attractions based on the Disney/Pixar animated film “Cars.” The Tomorrowland flying saucers of the past are coming back in an attraction that will allow guests to fly on a floating air cushion. Plus, a Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree whip ride and of course, Radiator Springs Racers.
<http://tinyurl.com/yazvv2x>
Also construction photos of the area.
<http://tinyurl.com/y9p7owr>
• Be among the first to get a Cheshire Cat Tail, created by our Disneyland Resort Candy Kitchens in celebration of the release of Tim Burton’s “Alice in Wonderland,” film. These handmade Cheshire Cat Tails will be available for a limited time only at the following locations.
-Disneyland® park
Candy Palace, Main Street, U.S.A. Pooh Corner
-Downtown Disney® District
Marceline’s Confectionery
-Disney’s California Adventure® park
Greetings From California
Photo: <http://tinyurl.com/ybcto5b>
• There’s several pages of photo updates for Disneyland at Coaster Realm.
<http://tinyurl.com/yb5e2uu>
• Disney gives a sneek peek at iconic animated movie moments brought to life in World of Color, set to debut in June at Disney’s California Adventure.
<http://tinyurl.com/ybrfhyl>
• A user of the MiceChat forum has posted the April- June events at the Disney Family Museum in San Francisco.
<http://tinyurl.com/ycf2m9w>
• The El Capitan theater in the Disneyland area has extended its showing of Alice in Wonderland from March 30 to April 20.
• Despite malls woes, GardenWalk hotel developers were granted an amendment to their development agreement with the city of Anaheim this week, allowing them to begin hotel construction next year and to delay construction of 500 time-share units until 2019.
<http://tinyurl.com/ygt2rqo>
• In other Disneyland area news, the city has big plans for the stretch of Harbor Boulevard south of Disneyland including hotels, a water park resort, shops and restaurants. Harbor Boulevard is targeted for a “three-month makeover” starting March 15, city officials announced Thursday. Work hours will be between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. during the construction period, and traffic on Harbor will be reduced to one lane.
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DCL NEWS
Disney Cruise Line Fan Question: In 2010 and 2011, Disney Cruise Line will offer the most diverse range of itineraries in our history, sailing to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Mexican Riviera, Caribbean, Bahamas and Alaska. Fans, we want to know, what itinerary for 2010-2011 would you most like to sail with your family? If you would like to answer, visit DCL’s Facebook page.
<http://www.facebook.com/DisneyCruiseLine>
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ADVENTURES BY DISNEY
*Have you taken an Adventures By Disney in the past? Just in time for The Magic For Less Travel’s Magical Month of March, Adventures by Disney has a fantastic offer for previous guests that can save up to $1600 for a family of 4. Plus receive a Free Gift Card up to $250 from TMFLT when you book by 3/7/10.
<http://tinyurl.com/ycpbztt>
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THOSE OTHER THEME PARKS
• Channel 2 Wesh.com is holding a contest to give away 16 sets of tickets (plus 2 one-day admissions to UHO) to the live taping of the Ellen DeGeneres show at Universal Studios on March 28th. One Grand prize will also include a 3-night stay at Loews on-site Royal Pacific Resort and the Universal Resort admission tickets will be upgraded to 3 days rather than one. Simply go to the link below and fill out the form to enter. The sweepstakes ends March 21 at 5 p.m.
<http://tinyurl.com/y9qzgnw>
• Universal Orlando released a photo of Hogwarts Express, the iconic train that will greet visitors at the edge of Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure when it opens this spring. The engine will bellow smoke throughout the day.
<http://tinyurl.com/ydogze7>
• Orlando United is keeping a list of Wizarding World of Harry Potter rumors, construction updates and confirmations.
<http://tinyurl.com/y9xe5n9>
• The Orlando Sentinel has photos of Legoland in California for those looking a head to what to expect in Florida.
<http://tinyurl.com/y8vpbhw>
• Experience The Best of Vegas at Madame Tussauds and the Disney’s the Lion King. If you are traveling with the family to Las Vegas this deal is perfect for you.
<http://tinyurl.com/ya378yv>
• This summer, Southern California’s theme-park titans will wage a nightly megawatt battle of the lights — all in hopes of winning your hearts and wallets. On May 29, Knott’s Berry Farm will unveil “Snoopy’s Starlight Spectacular” in an effort to fend off this summer’s most-anticipated theme park attraction: the “World of Color” water show coming to Disney’s California Adventure.
<http://tinyurl.com/y9ctqfy>
• Animal trainers speak out: SeaWorld releases video of trainers sharing their best and worst moments.
<http://tinyurl.com/yfafcx8>
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RUMOR MILL
(where everything is pure speculation)
• A poster to MiceChat is reporting rumblings of a big event in the works for 2010 to replace the D23 Expo, the next which is scheduled to occur in 2011. According to the post, an announcement may come in or around D23′s first anniversary. Of course, after last night’s D23 event in the MK, we now know more. 
<http://tinyurl.com/yg47b9d>
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DISNEY ODDS & ENDS
• March 5th, Disney launched a new movie viewing website, Disney Movies Online. This new site allows users to enter codes included with Disney Blu-Ray / DVD combo packs, which come with a digital version of the movie. Movies will then be available for you to watch at any time from the web. To check it out, click the link below.
<http://tinyurl.com/yaltb8d>
• ANOTHER FIRST! The Los Angeles Times sold its front page to The Walt Disney Company in a special promotion for “Alice in Wonderland.” Ad cost $700,000. The front page was actually a wrap with the real front page coming second. Click below to read more.
<http://tinyurl.com/ye4hx3m>
• ‘Alice In Wonderland’ takes over NYC Bloomingdales with fantastical window displays.
<http://tinyurl.com/yjjmbxl>
• Fan Reviews on Video
<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQp4hsMlohA>
• Video of Alice in Wonderland exhibit at D23 Expo with live actors
<http://tinyurl.com/y8zyv2w>
• Read an Alice in Wonderland video game review
<http://tinyurl.com/y92qwvo>
• Kinder Glue says Alice in Wonderland is fine for kids.
<http://tinyurl.com/y9n96jq>
• Alice in Underwearland – a bit of a shocking expose of Lewis Carroll
<http://tinyurl.com/ya48sph>
• A match made in Wonderland. Helena Bonham-Carter and Tim Burton, the King and Queen of Kookiness, co-exist in separate house in apparent bliss.
<http://tinyurl.com/yg5qwgt>
• Shinedown’s “Her Name is Alice” from the “Almost Alice” album on video combined with images from Alice In Wonderland.
<http://www.chipandco.com/?p=7166>
• See what’s new on our Alice in Wonderland page
<http://tinyurl.com/ykqr2pg>
• The Equinox says Disney had an opportunity to retort those who say it’s a “bunch of sexist, racist and perverted Nazis” with the making of “The Princess and the Frog,” but failed horribly.
<http://tinyurl.com/yk9nfoy>
• Research shows a surprising correlation: The earlier a child started watching Baby Einstein DVDs, it turned out, the smaller his or her vocabulary was.
<http://tinyurl.com/yahksop>
• Disney is covertly developing a remake of the Rick Moranis hit, “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids.”
<http://tinyurl.com/ydn4zek>
• Verizon Wireless, along with Hannah Montana’s Emily Osment will kick off the The Verizon ‘Experience The Magic’ Tour in San Diego today. Allstar Weekend will also be on hand to perform a free show in their home town of San Diego and sign autographs at the Verizon Wireless store in the Home Depot Shopping Center. The event will take place at Verizon Wireless at 3505 Sports Arena Blvd. At 12:45 pm, Emily Osment will be signing autographs. Allstar Weekend will perform at 2 pm followed by an autograph signing session.
• Since the Academy Awards are approaching, here’s a timely article from D23 on Walt’s golden legacy at the Oscars.
<http://tinyurl.com/ydsmxvu>
• Today’s “Way Back” Tour goes to the Space Age Lodge, 1972, with Rocketmobile transportation departing every 10 minutes to Disneyland. The next two photos will drive home how much times have changed. Click on them for a first impression and then visit Vintage Disneyland Tickets for the entire article.
Photo 1: <http://tinyurl.com/ybawrtf>
Photo 2: <http://tinyurl.com/yex2nps>
Article: <http://tinyurl.com/yho6ppr>
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MONEY SAVERS
• Just a reminder about Spa Week which runs through March 14 at select spas nationwide with select spa treatments for just $50. The Mandara Spa at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa in Anaheim will be participating with a facial or massage and Mandara Spa at Walt Disney World Dolphin will also offer facial or massage. For more info, visit:
<http://www.spafinder.com/dealdays>
• Hurry, don’t be late! Online only: Free Shipping with Alice! This weekend only (3/5-3/7), free shipping on your entire shipment when you make a purchase from the Disney Store Alice in Wonderland boutique.
<http://tinyurl.com/yj57m6t>
• Kidthing is offering 4 Dr. Seuss books for free downloads, Horton Hears a Who, Hop on Pop, Cat in the Hat, and Green Eggs and Ham, through 3/31. Use the link below to download Kidthing 2.0, then go to ‘SHOP” tab and enter code KTCODE- NEA5RAA. Finally, add the books to your cart and check out.
<http://tinyurl.com/ykmh4r2>
• Wear your PJ’s to Brusters today and get a free single scoop waffle cone.
<http://www.brusters.com/storefun/pjweekend.asp>
• Visit your local IKEA this Friday-Sunday to get a $1 Meatball Lunch after 11:00 am. Limit 1 per customer.
• Through March 7th, enjoy an additional 20% off at Coach Factory Stores with this coupon.
<http://tinyurl.com/yfjkmuz>
• Bring your child’s report card with a B or better average to Blockbusters and get a free movie rental.
• The first 100,,00 to sign up on SunChips Facebook page will get a coupon for for a free 10.5 oz bag of Sunchips.
<http://tinyurl.com/y9xf9xr>
• Until 3/24, get a free signature collection travel-size item at Bath and Body Works with any purchase.
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AMAZON DEALS
Please be aware that Amazon.com adjusts prices frequently and often, the
prices listed below are subject to change at any time.
Cradle of Persia [Game Download]
Price: $2.99
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B001L5TJ1O/disneydollarle07>
Western Digital WD Elements 640 GB USB 2.0 Portable External Hard Drive
List Price: $149.99
Price: $84.99
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B002RL8JBM/disneydollarle07>
Invisible Touch (2007 Remaster)
by Genesis
Price: $2.99
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00122X2U0/disneydollarle07>
The Silence of the Lambs [Blu-ray] (1991)
List Price: $29.99
Price: $9.99
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000MGB6N2/disneydollarle07>
Fargo [Blu-ray] (1996)
List Price: $29.99
Price: $9.99
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B001U6YI8I/disneydollarle07>
Due South: The Ultimate Collection – Three Complete Seasons
List Price: $39.99
Price: $19.99
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0017KP8Y0/disneydollarle07>
Kensington ShareCentral 2 for USB Device Sharing
List Price: $59.99
Price: $8.50
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0014IUVQA/disneydollarle07>
Senseo SL7810/65 Single-Serve Gourmet Coffee Machine, Black
List Price: $64.99
Price: $49.99
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B001QTVS5K/disneydollarle07>
LEGO City Car (3177)
List Price: $9.99
Price: $4.97
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B002RL7VOI/disneydollarle07>
Alice in Wonderland Mad Hatter Johnny Depp 24×36 Poster
List Price: $9.00
Price: $5.95
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B002NVK16M/disneydollarle07>
Disney Cars Chair Desk with Pull out under the Seat Storage Bin
List Price: $69.99
Price: $35.00
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B001GSO79A/disneydollarle07>
Disney Princess Room Décor in a Box
List Price: $34.99
Price: $22.00
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000PJK4AM/disneydollarle07>
Hannah Montana Record & Flower Pillow
List Price: $21.00
Price: $4.33
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000WK4IKG/disneydollarle07>
TinkerBell Sting of Christmas Lights
List Price: $30.00
Price: $9.98
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B001LNUL5E/disneydollarle07>
Disney Princess: Pretty Puzzles
List Price: $17.99
Price: $7.20
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000UK72UQ/disneydollarle07>
Disney Princess: Dress-Up: A Sticker-Activity Storybook
List Price: $14.99
Price: $6.00
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000JGWDP0/disneydollarle07>
Happily Ever After Stories
List Price: $15.99
Price: $6.40
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0023RT10I/disneydollarle07>
Disney Christmas Storybook Collection
List Price: $15.99
Price: $6.40
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00375LO3C/disneydollarle07>
World of Cars
List Price: $15.99
Price: $6.40
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B002GJU4XG/disneydollarle07>
Bolt: One Ridonculous Adventure
List Price: $14.99
Price: $6.00
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B002KAOSRO/disneydollarle07>
Disney Princess Once Upon a Time Storybook and Musical Clock Timer
List Price: $19.99
Price: $8.00
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B002YD8GPC/disneydollarle07>
Up: Wilderness Explorers’ Guide
List Price: $12.99
Price: $5.20
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00375LNPG/disneydollarle07>
Walt Disney’s Cinderella
List Price: $16.99
Price: $6.80
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0014JOKN4/disneydollarle07>
Disney’s Little Einsteins: Galactic Goodnight
List Price: $12.99
Price: $5.20
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000YHLUUS/disneydollarle07>
Paper Doll Activity Book Disney Princesses
Price: $3.71
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1412748801/disneydollarle07>
Interactive Play a Sound Cars Disney
Price: $7.77
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1412735564/disneydollarle07>
Rebel of the Asylum: I played their game my way
List Price: $17.95
Price: $1.07
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0595469019/disneydollarle07>
