Discover 15 Hidden Gems at Disney-MGM Studios To celebrate the 15th anniversary of Disney-MGM Studios, we present this merry Passholder mission. Sure, you know all the biggest and best attractions that have premiered here over the last 15 years, but have you ever really noticed the hidden gems? Next time you're in the Park, see if you can fid these 15 little showbiz treats assembled by Disney Imagineers and other experts. Happy hunting! [*]See what happens when you pull the rope beside the "Do not pull rope" sign outside Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular. [*]Find the miniature farmhouse build by Walt Disney himself, in Walt Disney: One Man's Dream. [*]Look for mementos from the band in Studio C at Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. [*]Check out the TV props from classic episodes of The Twilight Zone in the library at The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. [*]Look for the Mickey Avenue/Dopey Drive sign near the Disney-MGM Studios Backlot Tour entrance. It's a duplicate of the real one in Burbank. [*]Across from Tatooine Traders, there's a real live Speeder Bike, complete with Endor background. Take a seat for an authentic Star Wars photo op! [*]Ever notice the WWII Victory Garden across from Beauty and the Beast - Live on Stage? [*]Stop by Radio Disney for a chance to see one of the national personalities who broadcast live from here. [*]See if you can spot Donald Duck's cameo in a film clip at the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant. [*]Take a close look at the crates near Min and Bill's Dockside Diner for some fun classic movie references. [*]Snoop around the living room at 50's Prime Time Cafe. Remember any of those cheesy knick-knacks from your past? [*]Play the role of "Complete Stranger" on the phone outside Who Wants to Be a Millionaire - Play it! [*]Ask Sid to do one of his classic impressions at Sid Cahuenga's One-of-a-Kind collectibles. [*]Check out the detailed model of the Pigs in Space Swinetrek spaceship in Jim Henson's Muppet*Vision 3-D. [*]Take a photo with the biggest cartoon star from 100 years ago-Dinosaur Gertie.
Free 15th Anniversary Commemorative Coin! Show your valid Passholder I.D. at the Sorcerer Hat Shop from 5/1 - 5/13/04 and a commemorative coin featuring Director Mickey and Movie Star Minnie is yours free! Created by the great Don "Ducky" Williams, it's mounted in a plastic case with colorful backing. One per Passholder, while quantities last.
The Ultimate Backyard Garden Epcot festival gets new flair Take 30 million blooms, toss in some topiaries and "Flower Power" music, and you've got the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. Add an exhibit that turns ordinary backyards into extraordinary spaces for entertaining and recreation, and you've got the "Ultimate Backyard Garden" presented by The Home Depot. It's a brand-spanking new Flower & Garden feature you won't want to miss - now through June 6, 2004.
Covering 7,000 square feet between Morocco and France, this interactive exhibit will give you out-of-the-box backyard design ideas that you can recreate with a bit of ordinary stuff from The Home Depot and a lot of imagination. You'll find everything from children's play areas and specialty gardens to hot tubs and putting greens. Hey, if you can dream it, you can build it ... especially with the help of the experts who will be on hand for in-depth discussions about how to take this backyard magic home with you. In addition, every area has take-away "Discovery Sheers" which tell you exactly what you need to make what you see.
So while your VCR is busy recording your favorite home improvement show on TV, head on out to Epcot and experience "the ultimate" one for yourself.
Attention: Stitch has left the building
In our last issue, Stitch made a shambles of his Mickey Monitor article. Here are the facts about his upcoming attraction, Stitch's Great Escape! But read quickly - he may pop up again!
The new attraction blends animation, Audio-Animatronics wizardry, sound and lasers in a "prequel" to Lilo & Stitch.
Upon entering, you'll find yourself light years from earth as a "Security Recruit" at the Galactic Federation Prison Teleport Center, where various naughty alien "naughties" are being detained. The trouble begins when Stitch tries to escape from the very chamber in which you'll be seated. Zany pandemonium ensues.
"Our idea was to create a lighthearted experience with lots of laughs and action." Disney Imagineer Rick Rothchild told the Mickey Monitor. "And who better to star in it than Stitch? You never know what he's going to do - or where he's going to be - next.
"At one point, tracking cannons in the ceiling follow his DNA, but he spits to make them misfire," Rick explains. "So the lasers blast all over the chamber. At another point, Stitch will hide behind your seat. You'll hear him over your shoulder, talking and making those rude noises we know and love."
Stitch's Tomorrowland invasion occurs later this year at the Magic Kingdom Park. But we have a feeling Stitch isn't done messing with the Mickey Monitor yet, so be on the lookout for more wacky hijinks in upcoming issues.
Downtown Disney Marketplace gives the ultimate sandwich a royal welcome
The newest Downtown Disney restaurant can boost quite a pedigree. It marks the unique collaboration between two earls: Robert Earl, the legendary restaurateur famed for his Planet Hollywood and Hard Rock Cafe chains, and John Montagu, the current Earl of Sandwich and direct descendent of the man credited with inventing this handy entrée.
As the story goes, in 1762, the Earl of Sandwich asked for his meals served between two slices of bread so he could continue playing cards with his royal cronies. Soon, all his pals were also ordering their meals "like Sandwich" and the culinary craze was born.
Since then, the sandwich has enjoyed a rich and varied history culminating with the opening of the first dining establishment developed under the guidance of the Earl of Sandwich, himself.
The Earl of Sandwich restaurant, which opened recently on the former site of the Gourmet Pantry, serves breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and a light supper. The menu boasts a variety of hot sandwiches featuring freshly roasted and carved meats served on freshly baked bread and complemented with tasty sauces and spreads.
In addition to a variety of signature hot sandwiches, the Butler's Pantry is stocked with grab 'n' go cold sandwiches, salads, side orders and desserts. finally for dessert, it's impossible to pass up the decadent cookie treats prepared three ways - straight from the oven, with a crème filling, or served as an irresistible ice cream sandwich.
The sandwich has come a long way since 1762.
Try these Earl of Sandwich favorites:
[list][*]The Original - This delicious combination of roast beef, cheddar cheese, and horseradish sauce owes its origin to the inventive Earl himself. [*]The Old Club - Fresh roast turkey is complemented with tasty bacon, lettuce, tomato, and a top-secret tangy sauce. [*]The Hawaiian - Named after the former Sandwich Islands, this delectable menu item features a wonderful blend of barbecue pork, pineapple and Swiss cheese. [/list]
Star Wars Weekends takes Disney-MGM Studios by storm (trooper)
Every Friday, Saturday & Sunday
May 14 - June 13, 2004
"You will go to Star Wars Weekends ... You will go to Star Wars Weekends ... You will go to ..."
Sorry. Just trying out a little Jedi mind trick. But you will go to Star Wars Weekends, right? After all, it's the only time of year you get to see Disney-MGM Studios all done up in its galactic finest. It's completely out of this world! And the change in scenery isn't the only draw. Where else are you going to find dozens of your favorite heroes and villains from the entire Star Wars saga?
Plus, you'll have the chance to get up and close and personal with some of the saga's celebrities during events like "Legends of the Force" motorcade, the "Stars of the Saga" talk show/Q&A session and the daily autograph sessions!
Don't forget to take a turn on Star Tours - the ultimate Star Wars thrill ride. And go "Behind the Force" to get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the films. Kids may even learn a few handy mind tricks of their own (or at least how to wield a lightsaber) a the Jedi Training Academy. And if you think you're ready for the "hot seat," you may want to give the Star Wars edition of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire - Play it! a try. There will also be kids' trivia contests, photo opportunities and more.
So if the "Force" you want to feel, to Disney-MGM Studios you must go. A little Jedi told us so. (He also told us to tell you to visit dineyworld.com/starwars for updated event information.
Cirque du Soleil artists fly high for the small fry
Celebrating its fifth year of unbelievable acrobatics, spirited dance, lively humor and unique artistry, the Cirque du Soleil show, La Nouba is still one of the most talked-about Walt Disney World experiences. And according the one of its featured performers, it's a particular hit among children.
"We love to hear kids laughing," said Trapeze Artist Rob Dawson, who also plays on of the marching "Urbans." "When I was with Mystére in Las Vegas, there weren't many kids. But La Nouba is different because it's here at Disney. It has things kids like - bicycles, clowns, and those little girls with the spindles."
La Nouba was created exclusively for the Walt Disney World resort, so naturally all ages love it. There's proof of this joy at every performance in the form of audience reaction that exhilarates Rob and his fellow artists.
"It really adds a lot of excitement when we know we're making them happy," he says with a smile.
And now there's a special Passholder discount to make you and the kids 25% happier.
Celebrate 5 amazing years of Cirque du Soleil La Nouba and save 25%
Save 25% off* the regular price of Category 2 admission (select seats only) on performances June 1 through September 30, 2004 (excluding 6/20-7/5 and 8/22-8/25). And you can bring one guest along to enjoy the savings, too! Tickets are available for sale 14 days prior to your show date.
Call (407) 939-7604, before some clown gets your seat!
*Discount is not valid on previously purchased tickets, gift certificates or with any other offer. Passholder must present valid Passholder I.D. at box office to receive tickets. Please arrive a minimum of one hour prior to show time. Advance reservations required. Availability is limited and restrictions apply.
New online game brings Mission: SPACE action to you - live!
As a Passholder, you can blast off for Mars aboard Mission: SPACE as often as you like. Now you can visit disneyspacerace.com from home, and join in the world's first computer game linked to a Theme Park attraction.
Mission: SPACE Race is a new, online version of the live game you may have played at the Mission: SPACE advanced Training Lab post-show area. When you log in at home, you'll join a "crew" of Guests simultaneously playing, live at terminals inside the attraction.
Pitted against another crew, you must race an X2 Deep Space Shuttle from Mars to a space station. If your shuttle experiences damage to one of its sections, you can keep it going fast by applying special "fixes" which Park Guests can upload to you.
Next time you visit Mission: SPACE, you can play with folks from all over the world as they play at home. You'll have a "Passholder edge," though, because you can go to Epcot whenever you want to play, in addition to competing at home. You'll probably be a champ before the next Mickey Monitor comes out!
Perks in your 2004 pass sleeve
Get the most out of being a Walt Disney World Passholder by taking advantage of these exciting offers:
Mini golf. Mega discount.
Come test your skills (or perhaps lack thereof) at Disney's Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf Course and at Disney's Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Course for 50% off the regular rate. And bring up to three Guests of varying skill to enjoy the discount with you!
Passholder golf rates suit to a "tee."
Don't forget - because you're a Passholder, you and up to three Guests can enjoy 30% off* the Day Visitor Rates on Disney Golf that's not so miniature! Call (407) WDW-GOLF (939-4653) for tee times and more information.
*Discount cannot be applied to any other discount or special rate including, but not limited to, Twilight Rates. Tee times at discounted rate are limited and may be made up to 14 days in advance. Advance reservations required. Passholder I.D. required.
Benefits may only be used by a Passholder with a valid Pass unless noted otherwise, and cannot be combined with any other coupon or discount. Benefits exclude tax and gratuity where applicable and are subject to change without notice.
Beat the heat at Disney's Vero Beach Resort
A cool place to stay.
Nestled along Florida's spectacular Atlantic coastline, Disney's Vero Beach Resort is just a 2-hour drive from all the Walt Disney World fun.
And though some do indeed like it hot, here, you'll enjoy an average May-July air temperature in the low 80s and an ocean temperature in the upper 70s. Not to mention the sun-drenched beaches and tropical waters.
Other cool things to do? How about the biking, tennis, mini golf, nightly campfires and children's activities? Or the wave runners, kayaks, catamarans and other water sports you can take advantage of? (Rental fees apply.)
Here, our Passholder families can enjoy a virtual oasis while being surrounded with the legendary Disney quality, service and imagination that you've come to expect.
So come check in, chill out, and see what it's all about. Life is a beach after all, right? Well, it should be.
Passholder resort savings
Here's a hot offer on a cool retreat! As a Passholder, you can enjoy special rates on a stay at Disney's Vero Beach Resort. These rates are for studio accommodations and start at just $139* (plus tax) per room, per night (most nights 6/3-6/30/04 and 7/5-8/28/04). But hurry. The number of rooms available at this rate is limited, and they'll go fast! So call (407) 560-PASS (7277) by 8/28/04 to book. And don't forget to ask for package code VRT. Hope to see you there!
*Other room types may be available at varying rates. Length-of-stay requirements may apply. No group rates or other discounts apply. Valid for up to four adults in the same room. Valid Passholder I.D. required at check-in. All prices and other terms subject to change without notice.
Membership is rewarding with Disney's Visa Card
With Disney's Visa Credit Card from Bank One, each Disney adventure ca be made even more magical. Because when you use your card, on everything from gas to groceries, you earn Disney Dream Reward Dollars.¹
Those Reward Dollars can be used to purchase Disney merchandise like DVDs and clothing, theme Park tickets (including Annual Pass renewals), hotel stays, food ... even towards entire vacation packages! They can even be used in combination with other money-saving offers without having to worry about block out dates. And there's no annual fee, either.
To apply for your card, call 1-888-221-2010 or visit 25DisneyRewards.com and use key code 6K3001.
Apply now and get 25 bonus Reward Dollars
It's the beginning of a beautiful friendship. to get you started in the Disney Rewards Program, we're going to give you 25 bonus Disney Dream Reward Dollars² with your first Disney Visa Credit Card purchase! That's $25 you could put towards your next Disney purchase! Remember -- the sooner you start racking up those Reward Dollars, the sooner you can start spending them!
¹Disney Dream Reward Dollars are subject to the terms and conditions of the Disney Rewards Program.
²This is a one-time offer for new cardmembers who have applies for Disney's Visa Credit Card and are approved for the card. Please allow 4 to 6 weeks after your first purchase, balance transfer, convenience check or cash advance. The 25 Disney Dream Reward Dollars will be credited to your rewards account and are subject to the terms and conditions of the Disney Rewards Program. Must use card by 9/30/04.
Disney's Visa Card available to U.S. residents only. 18 and older, and are subject to credit approval.
"Where Magic Lives" Passholder Pin #2
The new pin is in!
[list][*]Epcot®-themed featuring Figment [*]Available for purchase beginning May 15, 2004 [*]$12.50 (plus tax) [*]7,500 are being issued [*]Limit of two per Passholder per day [/list]On sale at:
[list][*]Epcot® -- Pin Central [*]Magic Kingdom® Park -- Town Square Exposition Hall [*]Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park -- Island Mercantile [*]Disney-MGM Studios -- Sorcerer Hat Shop [/list]Remember:
Valid Passholder I.D. required at time of purchase
For more information, visit www.odpt.com - the Official Disney Pin Trading Website.
The "Ducky" world of Don Williams
When you pick up your Disney-MGM Studios commemorative coin, you'll be holding a genuine work of art by the legendary Don "Ducky" Williams.
Ducky, whose Donald Duck-loving grandmother gave him his nickname, has created magical character art at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Marketing for over 24 years. Yet he still can't believe how he actually got to live his dream.
Ducky became determined to be a part of Disney when he saw Song of the South when it was reissued in 1956. "The art, the music, the characters - all of it made such an impression on me," he said. "I wrote a letter to Walt Disney and asked for a job!"
Alas, there were no openings for ten-year old artists. So, Ducky grew up in his native Springfield, Massachusetts, served a 4-year stint in the U.S. Navy, and worked his way up to Branch Manager at his hometown bank. A branch manager with a brush.
"Every Christmas, I would paint murals of Disney characters all over the bank for the kids, " he recalled. The elaborate artwork became a local attraction.
But Disney was calling. Or so he thought. Ducky gave up everything in Springfield and took any job he could in his new Orlando home. He submitted thousands of character sketches to Disney Marketing for years until he was hired in 1980.
Ducky's been making magical art ever since - for books, ads, television, lithographs and your Passholder coin. He's a popular attraction at Disneyana Conventions and Disney Cruise Line cruises. Unlike his narcissistic namesake, he remains humble.
"It was hard work and a lot of good luck," he said. "I never take it for granted. I'm grateful for every day I get to do this stuff."
Walt Disney World Legends
The World Famous Cobb Salad
Like any good Tinsel Town legend, no one is absolutely certain how the Hollywood Brown Derby famous Cobb Salad originated. It's no wonder. The legend of its creation was passed down to us by the very people who create the stories of the silver screen. But even if there's no truth to the rumors that this finely diced delicacy was created as a result of punches being thrown or late-night refrigerators being raided or because a famous movie star was recovering from dental work, the delicious outcome of the story can easily be sampled any day at Disney-MGM Studios.
And now, for our Disney Passholders, here's something even the Hollywood elite couldn't manage to finagle out of the Hollywood Brown Derby's tight-lipped chefs of the '40s and '50s - the secret recipe.
The Hollywood Brown Derby Cobb Salad
Chef Tim Oakley, Disney-MGM Studios
Makes 4 to 6 servings
Ingredients
1 cup chopped iceberg lettuce leaves, washed and spun dry
1 cup chopped chicory leaves, washed and spun dry
1 cup tender sprigs watercress, washed and spun dry plus additional sprigs for garnish
1 pound poached turkey breast, finely chopped
2 medium-sized ripe tomatoes; peeled, seeded, and finely chopped
1 avocado; peeled, seeded, and finely chopped
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (about 2-1/2 ounces)
6 strips bacon; cooked crisp, drained, and crumbled
3 hard-cooked eggs; peeled and finely chopped
2 tbsp. snipped fresh chives
1/2 cup Hollywood Brown Derby Old-Fashioned French Dressing (recipe follows)
Preparation
1. Toss the iceberg lettuce, chicory, and watercress together and arrange in a salad bowl
2. In straight and separate lines, arrange the turkey, tomatoes, avocado, blue cheese, bacon, and eggs on top of the greens.
3. Sprinkle the chives in a diagonal line across the salad
4. To serve, present at the table, toss with the dressing, and place in radicchio cups on chilled plates with watercress sprigs as garnish.
Old-Fashioned French Dressing
Yield: 1/2 cup
Ingredients
2 tbsp. water
2 tbsp. red wine vinegar
1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp. salt, or to taste
1/2 tsp. minced garlic
1/4 tsp. sugar
1/8 tsp. freshly ground pepper, or to taste
1/8 tsp. dry English mustard
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 tbsp. olive oil
Preparation
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the water, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, garlic, sugar, freshly ground pepper, and dry mustard until well blended.
2. Whisking constantly, add the vegetable oil and the olive oil in a slow steady stream until the dressing is emulsified.
3. Store covered and chilled until ready to serve. Whisk the dressing to blend just before serving.
Key Dates
May 2004
Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa opens - Come on in.
Our newest Home Away From Home Resort features villa-style accommodations and the High Rock Spring pool with cascading waterfalls and an exciting slide.
May 1-13, 2004
Disney-MGM Studios celebrates 15 years - Free Commemorative Coin available to Passholders!
In honor of the Disney-MGM Studios 15th Anniversary, we're giving away a free commemorative coin to our Passholders. Pick yours up at the Sorcerer Hat Shop. Valid Passholder I.D. required. Limited to one per Passholder and available while supplies last.
Now - June 6, 2004
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival - It's bloomin' great!
You still have tome to enjoy the whimsical new topiaries, the new "Ultimate Backyard Garden" exhibit, the Flower Power Concert Series and more. As a Passholder, you can get VIP seating simply by flashing your Pass at Guest Relations!
May 14 - June 13, 2004
Every Friday, Saturday & Sunday
"The Force" is at Star Wars™ Weekends - You should be, too.
Where can you go to find some of your favorite heroes and villains from the entire Star Wars™ saga? Disney-MGM Studios, of course. It's a wannabe Jedi's dream come true.
September 9, 10 & 11, 2004
THREE nights of joy at Night of Joy - Hallelujah!
This year's celebration is one evening longer and comes complete with more talent than ever ... 24 artists! It's your best chance ever to rejoice with some of the brightest stars in Contemporary Christian Music, live in the Magic Kingdom Park. For tickets, call (407) W-DISNEY (934-7639) or visit disneyworld.com/nightofjoy.
October 1, 3, 8, 12, 14, 17, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 29 & 31, 2004
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party - What a Treat!
For thirteen - count them - thirteen nights, it's a totally different kind of Halloween adventure. Join Mickey and the gang in the Magic Kingdom Park during this far-from-frightening party. Lucky for you there are thirteen chances! Tickets go on sale May 1, 2004. Call (407) W-DISNEY (934-7639) or visit disneyworld.com to get yours.
You Said It! Passholder Views
New resort is POPular with Passholders
Disney's Pop Century Resort captures the styles of the 20th century popular culture just like it captured the hearts of Passholders Dana and Sandy Hall of Poinciana, Florida.
"We didn't know what to expect," said Dana, who had enjoyed several Disney Resorts with his family in the past. "Now it's definitely on of our favorites. There's so much to look at. There's a lot to do, just by walking around."
Dana and Sandy found it easy to explore various "decades" throughout the resort, marveling at larger-than-life toys, games, gadgets and characters. Some of the icons required a bit of explaining to younger family members.
"We stayed in the 1950s section, which I could relate to," he explains. "But I had to explain the jukebox to my granddaughter."
Four-year-old Kalie was especially excited to see the giant Lady and the Tramp, along with all the other oversized Disney character icons throughout the resort. "They were a nice surprise," said Dana. "We weren't expecting to see many characters here."
The Halls were impressed with the nostalgic memorabilia decorating the entrance area, food court, and their room. All in all, Dana and Sandy through the resort was colorful and beautiful, and recalled the sweet silliness of bygone days when catch phrases like "groovy" and "right on!" were in vogue.
"It's hard to believe we said those things back then!" he laughed.
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