Special Thursday Post: It's Official! Free Dining is Back!

Free dining is once again back for 2010. Right now it is only available to Disney Visa card holders. Travel dates include August 8, 2010 - October 2, 2010. (And yes, if you are booked to begin your trip Oct. 2nd, you will still get free dining for the length of your trip, as long as it's under the same package...meaning you aren't switching rooms or anything.)

This year's plan is a little different though. Value Resorts get the Quick Service Dining Plan (but can upgrade to the Regular Dining Plan if they choose and pay an additional $10 per person). Moderates and Deluxes will receive the Regular Dining Plan. (Which can be upgraded to the Deluxe Dining Plan for an additional $30 per person.)

There are also some additional stipulations on Free Dining. Guests must book a 3 night package and must book a 2 day ticket. Also, currently, since this is being offered for Disney Visa card holders right now, you must book the deposit and pay the balance off with your Disney Visa card. If you do not have a Disney Visa card or don't want to use it to pay for the trip, you will have to wait a few days until Free Dining is offered to the general public, as May 2nd is when we should see it released for everyone else. You must book your trip by August 14th.

By the way, a great tip I found on http://www.themouseforless.com/, is that if you have a free volunteer ticket, you can save by purchasing the minimum 2-day ticket for this plan and then upgrading your free volunteer ticket for any additional days you may need.

I also highly suggest using The Magic For Less Travel to book your vacation. They'll do a great job for you and really make all trip planning hassle free. Get a no obligation quote here. (The Magic For Less Travel is in no way a sponsor to this site, I just really believe in their product. I've had them book many trips for me and they all take great care of you. They will walk you through all the hard stuff and help plan a successful trip.)

So, get your Free Dining now! I know how much everyone loves free food! It really is a great Disney promo, even though it's been changed quite a lot in the past few years. It can really save you money. But, make sure you look at all options, because Free Dining may sometimes not always be the best value for you either. So really do your homework on the matter.

Oh, and if you haven't already reserved LeCellier in hopes Disney will release Free Dining...good luck getting a slot! I think I got one of the last lunch offerings right at 180 days for my trip.

It's a Newsy Kind of Day

Lots of little news pieces came out today from Disney on things that I'd been hinting at in my rumors section recently. These were things I'd heard that were possibly coming to the Resort...one thing I even discussed earlier this week. Turns out, my sources were correct on quite a few of them!

So, by now you've already heard about the specifics, but for those of you who've missed them:


First out this morning was the news that Captain EO will indeed once again be playing in the Walt Disney World Resort at Epcot. (Captain EO is a 3D movie about Captain EO, played by Michael Jackson, and a misfit crew who are on a mission to save the world) The show will be preformed in the theater where Honey I Shrunk the Audience has been preforming. It's set to begin it's run on July 2nd, for an unconfirmed amount of time. They are saying that HISTA will return once the Captain EO run is over.

So, now that we've discussed the basics:

Even though it had been rumored to be coming back, I'm actually kind of a bit surprised. I really wasn't expecting much on this ever coming to fruition for some reason. I thought it was more fan-boi excitement rather than legitimate rumor because I'd been hearing the back and forth of it will happen-it won't happen.

The one thing that I think really brought this movie over to the East Coast was that I had heard the merchandise sales were doing very well in California...and with Disney really trying to take advantage of the "nostalgic" merchandise lately, I'm thinking that had a big reason for bringing it over to Florida. I also think that because they were announcing it was going to be shown at other parks around the world here in the near future, that they thought why not roll it out to WDW, in addition.

I've said before though, I can't say I'm all that excited about this actually coming. I think it's because I don't have the nostalgia factor for it, having never seen it as a kid (or at least not remember seeing it). And the video that I saw online to me was quite cheesy, so needless to say, the show doesn't exactly wow me. So I personally don't really see the draw with bringing back such a dated (albeit, to many, a classic) attraction.

But to each their own right...it's so great to see Disney bring back something so beloved by fans and I really appreciate that Disney is listening to us, (or at least our pocketbooks) since it's so obvious that so many people wanted to see The Captain once again. So, it's nice that they are answering the requests of the fans. (And who knows...maybe on some off chance they won't bring HISTA back...even though right now they're saying that they will. But maybe, just maybe, we'll be able to get something new in this pavilion soon instead.) I do know that if the attraction is still there in October, I will at least check it out during the Wine and Dine Marathon weekend. And who knows...maybe seeing it in person will change my mind and I'll fall head over heels for it.

Another announcement that was mentioned today on the Disney Parks Blog, was something else that I'd been hearing in the rumor mill for a while and that was that Toy Story 3 characters were indeed going to become a big part of the WDW this summer. In Toy Story Midway Mania at Disney's Hollywood Studios, we are going to be seeing a new game (a game I had already mentioned earlier) involving Rex and Trixie (the new Triceratops) called Rex and Trixie's Dino Darts. This will take place where Bo Peep's Baaaa-loon Pop currently is. The concept will be the same where darts will be thrown at balloons, but it will be in a setting with volcanoes and other dinosaury themes.



However, there's another game that will be changing that I did not know about previously and that is the Hamm and Eggs game. This is now going to be hosted by Hamm and Buttercup, a toy unicorn, that's going to be featured in Toy Story 3. There may also be some other appearances by other characters found in the new movie in the attraction as well, specifically in the prize reveal area. The new games will begin to be played in early May.

Also, in addition, another Toy Story 3 character will be coming out in force. Lots-o-Huggin Bear will be featured in a few places, the Animation Building at DHS, for meet and greets and also he'll be seen during the Block Party Bash in the Toy Story section of the parade. These changes are expected to take place May 9th.

Personally, I love the idea of adding these new characters to the parks. The Toy Story franchise is so beloved and I think that having the new characters will only enhance these attractions in a positive way.

I know that it's a heavy use of cross promotion, which can be criticized heavily among the Disney community, but this use of the characters, I believe, is going to be introduced so flawlessly, that it will almost be as though you can't even tell that they weren't there from the get go.

And I'm really trying to do a better job of keeping in mind that cross promotion was a big factor for Walt in the creation of his parks. So, I'm trying my best to be as supportive as possible of including movie tie-ins to theme park attractions. It's something that's so easy to criticize, but realizing and remembering that it's something that was meant to be done from the get go, really makes me be more supportive of this kind of practice.

So, that about covers the big announcements of the day and it seems like it's going to be an exciting summer, what with Summer Nightastic! and these all these new enhancements to some of the park's attractions. It almost makes me want to plan a quick summer trip to get to experience all the excitement that will be taking place. Alas, I don't think that's going to get to happen.

For those of you so lucky to get experience them, I am definitely jealous. Summer is going to be a great time to enjoy the Walt Disney World Resort.

Now it's your turn. What do you think about the recent announcements? Do you like the fact that Captain EO really is coming? Are you excited to see the new characters from Toy Story 3? Do you welcome all the Summer events that will be taking place? Do you think Summer Nightastic! will become something like Flower & Garden and Food & Wine Festivals--an annual event that can't be missed?

Make sure to leave your comments here or let me know them on Twitter: @RikkiNibs

News & Rumors 4/19/10 - 4/25/10

News and Rumors are gathered from various different websites. All rumors are rumors and are to be taken as such.

News

• Liberty Tree Tavern, Peter Pan's Flight, and Casey's Corner at the MK are currently undergoing exterior refurbishments. In addition, the restrooms in Future World East near Guest Relations are being rehabbed.
  
• At DAK, they are currently offering Fastpasses for the shows Festival of the Lion King, Flights of Wonder, and Finding Nemo: The Musical through May 29th. Fastpasses can be picked up at the former Tough to Be a Bug Fastpass machines. Guests may hold these Fastpasses and still pick up an additional one for another attraction.
• Fantasmic! dining packages are now available at both Mama Melrose and the Brown Derby for lunch offerings. Guests who purchase the dining package will be provided with designated seating for the show.
• Guests who are members of DVC have a new way of using points. Members can pay for a one time assignment of up to 24 points for $15 per point to help complete vacations that may need additional points. For more information, read KidaniKatie's blog, The DVC Life. Complete details can be found there.
• Dine with an Imagineer is back, for dinner offerings at the Flying Fish. Upcoming dates are, May 4th, and 18th June 1st, 15th, and 29th. Cost is $85 person plus tax. Seating is limited to 10 people per night.
• The Eat to the Beat Concert series acts have been announced. Performances will be nightly at 5:15 p.m. 6:30 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. at the American Gardens Theater. Performers include:
  10/1-10/3 — Taylor Dayne, “Tell It to My Heart”
  10/4-10/5 — Kool & The Gang, “Celebration”
  10/6-10/8 — Sugar Ray, “Fly”
  10/9-10/10 — Taylor Hicks, “Do I Make You Proud ”
  10/11-10/12 — Air Supply, “Lost in Love”
  10/13-10/15 — Sister Hazel, “All For You”
  10/16-10/17 — Howard Jones, “No One Is To Blame”
  10/18-10/19 — Exposé, “Seasons Change”
  10/20-10/21 — 38 Special, “Hold on Loosely ”
  10/22-10/24 — Night Ranger, “Sister Christian”
  10/25-10/27 — Billy Ocean, “Caribbean Queen”
  10/28-10/31 — Starship starring Mickey Thomas, “We Built This City”
  11/1 – 11/3 — Boyz II Men, “End of the Road”
  11/4-11/5 — Roger Hodgson formerly of Supertramp, “Give A Little Bit”
  11/6-11/7 — Jon Secada, “Just Another Day”
  11/8-11/9 — Hanson, “MMMBop” Editor's note: Um, so my 13 year old self just exploded in glee...too bad I won't be able to see them! I hearted Hanson as a teenager! :(
  11/10-11/11 — Rick Springfield, “Jessie’s Girl”
  11/12-11/14 — Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, “Go Daddy-O”
• While MuppetVision 3D is down for refurb (which is currently now happening), Jessie from Toy Story 2 and Bolt will be doing meet and greets near the entrance of Muppets through May 14th.
• The ever popular Disney Dooney and Burke purses are now making their way to the DCL. Special purses are showing up on the cruise line, just for purchase exclusively on the Disney Magic and Wonder.
  
• Have you ever wanted to own those Travel Channel specials that frequently take up huge chunks of time on your DVR? Now you can! Starting June 1st, The Disney Parks DVD 6 Pack will be released. The cost will be $49.95 and include: Walt Disney World: Behind the Scenes — An exclusive look at the park that made Orlando the nation’s number one vacation destination. Disneyland Resort: Behind the Scenes — A journey through the incredible attractions and entertainment experiences at the original Disneyland Resort. Ultimate Walt Disney World — A close look at the exciting thrill rides that make Disney parks so exciting. Disney’s Animal Kingdom – A tour of Disney’s largest and most ambitious theme park to date! Disney Cruise Line – Exclusive access to Disney’s cruise ships and its private island, Castaway Cay. & Undiscovered Disney Parks — A unique guide to Disney sites “off the beaten path” including properties and locations in Anaheim frequented by Walt Disney himself. A Blue Ray version will cost $34.95 and include: Disneyland Resort: Behind the Scenes, Ultimate Walt Disney World, Undiscovered Disney Parks. Also, single DVDs will be available for $19.95 for Walt Disney World: Behind the Scenes and Disneyland Resort: Behind the Scenes
  

Rumors

• Free dining is expected to be offered to Disney Visa Card holders starting April 29th and May 2nd to the general public. No word on what type of plan will be offered. Some are saying it will be quick service for all resorts and some are saying quick service for value resorts and the regular dining plan for moderates and deluxes.
• Rumors are still abounding that Captain EO may indeed be slated for the Honey I Shrunk The Audience theater at the Imagination Pavilion in Epcot by the end of the year.
• With World of Color opening soon at DCA, many are speculating whether the show will make it's way to Walt Disney World. Many believe that it would work at Disney's Animal Kingdom, but I'm hearing that's a no go. However, I have heard that some of the effects may be worked into a revamped Illuminations or possibly a replacement.
  

The Little Things at Animal Kingdom

It's so hard to believe that tomorrow, (well, today by the time this blog post is actually released) Disney's Animal Kingdom is celebrating it's 12th birthday. It seems like just yesterday that the AK actually opened. In these 12 years, we've seen some major growth and changes to help make this mark a bit more mature. And while it's not quite there yet, it's well on it's way to becoming a full day park, with just a few little tweaks here and there.

But there are some things at this park that do make it stand out from the other parks. These little hidden gems can be found all over all 4 theme parks, but it seems to me, that this park, because of the attention to detail that has lovingly been put into place, has some of the best little things that often get overlook. I'll admit, even I overlook some of them. But, I don't want you to miss them any longer. So, here are my Little Things At Animal Kingdom!

First, do not miss the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail and the Maharajah Jungle Trek. These two trails afford you the opportunity to get up close and personal with some amazing animals that you may otherwise not seen in that light before.

At the Pangani trail, you'll get to actually see gorillas RIGHT THERE! You are all up in their grill! lol! And it's so amazing to watch these animals because they are simply breathtaking! Also fascinating is the fact that you can see hippos here-swimming underwater! How many times are you going to be able to see that in your life? (Well, for most people. Our zoo here in St. Louis has an area that's similar where you can see the hippos swimming as well, but I digress...)

Over at the Maharajah Jungle Trek, which is my favorite of the two trails, you'll be able to get in the same pen as bats! Now, I know a lot of people may freak out at the word bats...so why would you want to be in the exact same area where they could fly around you? Because, they're actually not as scary as you think. Most of the time, they're just sleeping. And if you don't want to see the bats here, you can bypass them, but I think that's a mistake. They really are interesting creatures. Another animal that can be found on this trail that you do not want to miss are the tigers. It's so interesting to see how they behave, just like my cat at home, on a much larger, more ferocious scale. Watching them, I've realized they really are sweet animals...well, except for the fact that if they wanted to, they could potentially eat you. You know...that minor aspect. But at least at WDW, there's not chance of them eating you here! So, get up to that glass as close as you can!

Another thing that you do not want to miss at this park is Devine. If you don't know who Devine is, it's hard to describe. She is this beautiful "walking plant" who often surprises people on the path from Asia to Africa. She's so graceful and silent...sometimes you don't even know she's lurking in the plants. But trust me. If you see something that possible looks a little different moving in this area...stop for a moment. You do not want to miss her surprise shows. They are spectacular.

As I've mentioned, there are a few things at this park that I think should be on this list that even I haven't seen. Things that I know I miss, so, I'm sure if I do, the average park guest would too. But it is my goal to take these things in on my next few trips, because they are definitely some special Little Things.

First, I've heard such great things about Rafiki's Planet Watch. I haven't been there yet, but according to Debbie, it is amazing. You can possibly see actual veterinary procedures happen and get up close and personal with some animals at the petting zoo. Also, the Flights of Wonder show in the Asia section of the park is also supposed to be fabulous. But unfortunately, I just keep missing this not so hidden gem.

Lastly, one of the best little things at this park are the details. It's so hard to suggest really stopping and smelling the roses here to soak everything up (I mean, even I have trouble doing that here) but I suggest it highly. There are so many little things that the Imagineers have included, for no other purpose than to make this park one of the most themed parks around. I mean, walk in Africa's Harambe and try not to feel like you're actually in Africa. And you can't tell me that you don't marvel at the wonder that is the Tree of Life. Even Dinoland USA, an area hated by most Disney-philes, is full of small little details that help to make it as tacky as it is.

Oh! And do NOT miss listening to the music at this park! I know when this stuff comes onto www.magicalmouseradio.com, it instantly puts a smile on my face. And that's because it does such a good job at transporting me to the park. Some of my favorite tracks are the background loops you hear at Flame Tree BBQ. So, in addition to opening your eyes, make sure you open your ears as well!

Now it's your turn. What is it at this park that you think is a great "Little Thing" at Disney's Animal Kingdom? Make sure to let me know in the comments section.

And next time you're at Disney's Animal Kingdom, make sure you take a good hard look around. I can guarantee, you won't regret it.

News & Rumors 4/12/10 - 4/18/10

News and Rumors are gathered from various different websites. All rumors are rumors and are to be taken as such.

News

• Donald Duck is going to be getting a more permanent meet and greet at the Mexico Pavilion. The area is currently being constructed and should be finished within the next month.
• The existing 5 kennels that are located on Disney property currently are more than likely going to be closed when the new Best Friends Pet Care facility opens later this summer.
• Let the Fantasyland construction walls begin. These walls can now be seen up in Fantasyland from where Ariel's Grotto was to Mickey's Toontown Fair.
• Characters in Flight will be closed April 20th - 22nd. Edit: This has actually been cancelled. 4/19/10
• Rehab work is currently going on at the facades of Peter Pan's Flight and Liberty Tree Tavern at the Magic Kingdom.
• D-Street, located within Downtown Disney, had it's official grand opening this week.
• Tickets for Night of Joy, a Christian music festival that occurs at the Magic Kingdom in September, will go on sale May 1st.
  
• The special reserved areas at Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach that were originally available on a first come, first serve basis, are now available by calling 1 (407) WDW-PLAY. These areas, which include 1 cocktail table; 1 large umbrella; 2 lounge chairs; and 4 towels, and more, can now be reserved up to 180 days in advance. A 24 hour cancellation policy is available and full refunds will be given if canceled, by Disney, due to weather.
• All guests can once again pre-purchase the Disney's PhotoPass CD. While, no word has actually come from Disney on this, the site is up currently and can be found here.
  

Rumors

• It's being rumored that Epcot's Holiday events will begin taking place Nov. 26th and last through Dec. 30th.
  

Is The Great Movie Ride Too Out of Date?

Over on wdwmagic.com this past week, there was a bustling conversation about "Is the Great Movie Ride Lost on Today's Youth?".

The Great Movie Ride is one of those attractions where you usually have an opinion on the status of what the shape the ride is in...either you think the ride is perfect the way it is or you think that it definitely needs some updates. In the discussion, a lot of good points were brought up, both for the pros and cons.

So it got me to thinking, what really is the status of this classic, Disney's Hollywood Studio attraction? Personally, I love the ride as a whole. I think it really is a perfect fit for the Studios, both the Studios of past and the Studios of present. But there are definitely some things that could be looked into and, in my view, tweaked just a bit.

The purpose of the attraction is to showcase the classic movies...those movies and genres that are so timeless that just seeing one scene can transport you right into the film. And for the most part, this attraction does that and does it well. The different kinds of movie genres are well represented...with something for every movie buff, seemingly included.

As was mentioned in the thread posted above, a lot of people do question whether this attraction is too out of date. The common claim is that a good portion of the movies that are portrayed are lost on the kids (and some of the adults) nowadays. I would know...a few years ago, I used to be one of those people.

But, as I've grown out of that seemingly selfish stage, I've learned that this attraction, isn't meant to necessarily appeal to the kids. Now, I know you're thinking...what on earth is she talking about? It's Disney World, of course it's supposed to appeal to kids.

What I mean by that though, is that kids, yes, should enjoy it...but they don't have to understand every single thing that's presented. For the most part, I think this is a good rule of thumb for an attraction like this. I mean, let's face it, there are movies that are shown in this attraction, that even I haven't seen...but the important part is the edutainment factor of this attraction is there. It's meant to be an enjoyable learning experience of some of the best of the best movies around.

That being said, that doesn't mean that I believe this attraction should remain stagnant...the way it is. I mean, let's face it, the movies that are depicted in AudioAnamatronic form are, at the most recent, from 20 years ago. If you really think about it, nothing current has been added, in that form of the attraction. It would be nice if they would take maybe one scene or so and update it with a current "classic" movie from the more recent past. This way there would be something represented from all time periods, instead of missing a chunk of recent time.

Now, I am aware that the film at the end has been updated more recently, but still, this film needs some TLC as well. There are some movies shown in this montage that are not considered, even close to be "classics." (Sister Act, while I loved you as a movie as a kid...I'm looking at you for sure. Same with Three Men and a Baby.) The film quality should also be increased. They should look into doing something with it like they are supposed to be doing with the MuppetVision 3D film. Just a spit and polish. Really make it shine.

Updating this film shouldn't be too terribly difficult and in my opinion, should be done every few years or so...at the very least every 5 years. Keep things fresh.

I also wish the AudioAnamatronics would get some TLC as well. Give the attraction a refurb on the caliber of Spaceship Earth's AAs. They really look spectacular now. The Great Movie Ride's AAs look quite waxy to me. They really need some love.

As I've mentioned though...I really love the Great Movie Ride the way it is. I definitely don't think it's too out of date...but I do think it needs a good quality refurb to get it back to tip top shape quality. I think with a little work, this attraction will be 100% at the top of it's game, yet again.

So, that being said...what do you think of the shape of the Great Movie Ride? Is it too out of touch with today's youth? Do you love it the way it is? Let me know either here in the comments or send me a message on Twitter at @RikkiNibs .

Also, make sure you listen to this upcoming Monday's Be Our Guest Podcast episode. Mike and I deliver our State of the Parks Address...sure it's April, 3 months late of when the President delivers his...but that's how we do things here...absolutely backwards. :) It's a great show though. In the episode, we do like what I've done here with this blog post and take the parks and look at what's working really well and what could be improved. So make sure you're listening on Monday!

News & Rumors 4/5/10 - 4/11/10

News and Rumors are gathered from various different websites. All rumors are rumors and are to be taken as such.

News

• The AAA Storytelling Experience has been uprooted thanks to the refurbishments happening in the Magic Kingdom. This experience, only available to AAA members who book specific packages has moved from the Magic Kingdom to the Norway Pavilion in Epcot on the second floor VIP lounge. Showtimes are: 10:00 am, 10:45 am, 11:30 am and 12:15 pm.
• Today was the last day to get some quality time at a few areas in Fantasyland, as they will be closed for good starting tomorrow. Ariel's Grotto, Scuttle's Landing, and Pooh's Playful Spot will be no more. Guests will now be able to meet Ariel (and Prince Eric) at the Adventureland Veranda starting in May. The Tree from Pooh's Playful Spot will be moved to the queue area of The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. Guests can meet Pooh and Friends at the train station in Toontown. In May, these characters will move to Main Street USA.
  
• The Stormalong Bay Pool Slide at the Beach and Yacht Clubs will be down for refurbishment for the month of May, starting May 2nd. The slide is expected to reopen by the end of the month. The pool itself, will remain open.
  
• The pizzeria that will be opening at the Italy Pavilion in Epcot's World Showcase now has a name: Via Napoli.
• A new, high end restaurant will be opening on the Disney Dream. The restaurant, called Remy, after Ratatouille, will be located on the top deck and serve French inspired, gourmet cuisine. No word on how much of an additional cost it will be to dine here, but there will be an additional fee.
  
• The character changes that I mentioned in previous weeks, are in fact, taking place. See here and here
  

Rumors

• Starting in October, we may see Rapunzel and Flynn Rider from the movie Tangled.
  
• Belle's Storytime will close in October as well, but will reopen when the new Fantasyland expansion is over in the Beauty and the Beast section.
• Phineas and Ferb will not be appearing in the parks this year. It may be possible to see them in 2011 though.
• The Enchanted Grove is supposed to be open in place of Scuttle's Landing for morning Extra Magic Hours at the Magic Kingdom.
• I hear that Toontown Fair will officially close in early 2011.
• Now, I hear the Prince of Persia will not be appearing at Disney's Hollywood Studios for a meet and greet.
• This summer, with the Summer Nightastic! experience, the queue experience at Rock n Roller Coaster may change. They have been testing out a queue-less experience that may eventually be incorporated starting this summer.
• We are hearing that there will more than likely be new game in Toy Story Midway Mania when Toy Story 3 is released in theaters featuring Rex and Trixie (the new triceratops featured in the newest installment) which will have a jungle/volcano theme to it. This is expected to take over where Bo Peep's Baa-loon Pop is currently located. Also some additional scoring info may be presented at the end of the game.
• Lights, Motor, Action is expected to have a rolling refurb, where the show will still play, but sections of the seats will be roped off and refurbed, pieces at a time.
  

Spring Cleaning

Even though I've had a blog for coming up on 2 years (wow! I can't believe it's been that long!) I feel as if I've never really gotten the whole thing down. Sure, I'd write stuff...but I'd see things on other's blogs and wondered how they did that. But I've never been, in my eyes an exceptional blogger. A blogger, yes...but not a great one.

That is until I got a bit of a kick in the butt last week. Last week, www.betamouse.net did an episode all about blogs and I learned some valuable stuff. But one of the things I learned the most (besides the fact that Google Reader is the BEST invention ever and now I'm totally addicted to actually reading blogs on a daily basis. Why I didn't know about this, I have no idea! Oh and if you aren't using it yet, you really should be. It's fabulous!) is that my blog needed some attention of it's own.

So, I thought it was time to do some Spring Cleaning. Slowly but surely, I've been making changes. Fixing things, here and there, some of which are things that I've seen on other people's pages. Granted, I'm not the smartest at figuring it all out, but I think I'm doing a better job around these parts. :)

Because of that, I have a few questions for you all. Because, I want this blog to be interactive. I definitely don't just want to talk at you all, but have you all participate with me. It gets boring just having a one way conversation over here. Which is why I include polls periodically and ask questions that I ask you all to comment on.

That being said, is there anything bloggy (yep, made up that word) that you would like to see that you've seen on other blogs? A blog roll of my top blogs, a "you might also like these" similar blog entries roll call, a labels list, a way to get posts sent by email, a list of my favorite podcasts? Would you like to see a brand new physical blog layout? Is there anything you wouldn't like to see?

Also, I'm toying adding another column here, what with my new found love and understanding of all other blogs, of my Top 5 Blog Posts of the Week. This is where I'll post some of my favorite posts from the other talented bloggers in the WDW community. I've seen this done by a few other blog posters and thought it was fun. Is this something you may like to see? This would be done on another day...an added blog post for the week. I wouldn't be taking away any of the regular columns. Or should I just stick with the twice a week updates: 1. the News and Rumors Roll call of the Week and 2. my take on a current Disney topic?

Is there anything else you all would like to see me try with this blog. I am open for suggestions, as I'm trying to make this blog a lot better for you all...so I'd really love your help on the matter!

Make sure to leave your suggestions in the comments section, so I know where to go from here.

Hope you all are enjoying the changes going on here and that my posts bring a little Disney to your day!

News & Rumors 3/29/10 - 4/4/10

News and Rumors are gathered from various different websites. All rumors are rumors and are to be taken as such.

News

• Here's a look at the brand new concept art of the Cantina being built in Mexico and the new Pizzeria being built in Italy.

• Rock n' Roller Coaster is indeed going down for refurb from May 15th - 20th
• Refurbishments have been complete recently at Peter Pan's Flight, Adventureland restrooms, the Plaza Ice Cream Shop, and the Tomorrowland Terrace.
  
• Luxo Jr.. the Audio Anamatronic that was featured in the Pixar Place area of The Studios has been discontinued. No real word on why, but I know I am sad that this unique, small hidden gem is now gone.
• D-Street, a new store featuring Urban wear and Vinylmation, has officially opened at Downtown Disney's West Side.
• WDW Transportation has been involved in a few accidents this week, with one, unfortunately, killing a 9 year old boy.
• Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party dates are out: September 3, 8, 14, 17, 21, 24, 28, 30 October 1, 3, 7, 8, 11, 12, 14, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24, 26, 28, 29, 31 & November 1. Tickets are expected to go on sale May 1st.
  
• A new 300 square foot Givenchy shop will be opening up in the France pavilion of Epcot's World Showcase.
• Update: Southwest Airlines will now be participating Resort-wide in the Resort Airline Check In process. The only resorts that will be exempt are Old Key West and Caribbean Beach because their luggage facilities need to be enlarged.
  

Rumors

• In a very strong rumor, it appears the new monorail train will be Monorail Maroon.
• Ariel's Grotto is rumored to be close April 10th or 11th.
• Mary Poppins and Bert are expected to do a meet and greet at the Carousel at the Magic Kingdom soon.