Travel writers Simon and Susan Veness continue their regular ruminations and observations from Florida, exclusively for The DIBB Newsletter
It has been a few weeks of considerable ferment and turmoil in the Veness household. We had been on tenterhooks for a while awaiting the first copies of Susan's new book (The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World) but we were still surprised when they turned up.
Surprised? Downright astonished would be more like it. You see, the official publication date for the book, which has been an intimate part of our lives for more than two years now, was sometime in June, anywhere from the 1st to the 29th depending upon which online bookshop you perused.
And anyone who can explain how publishers and bookshops come up with their dates will be soundly welcomed at Chez Veness!
The advance copies were therefore not really on our radar at all, especially as we had just taken delivery of a huge pile of postcards (a picture of the book cover on the front, publication details on the back) to send out to our various contacts by way of advance publicity.
And anyone who suspects we are arch self-publicists won't be far wrong. We work on the theory that no-one promotes you quite as well as you can yourself!
We were actually both fully occupied in the annual re-write of the Brit Guide to Orlando when the doorbell rang and a curiously unprepossessing parcel was handed over by a suitably taciturn courier. Do you think the likes of DHL, FedEx and Co hire people purely on the basis of looking utterly disinterested? It would certainly explain the uniform disdain they seem to show for the job.
Anyway, we were certainly distracted and our initial reaction was that we must have been sent another batch of postcards, probably working on the theory that 500 weren't enough to send out to our few dozen contacts!
Imagine our shock, therefore, when the parcel was opened to reveal 10 gleaming new editions of The Hidden Magic (and, with the 'sparkling' cover, they really do gleam). To say Susan was rendered speechless would be like admitting the banks have had a bit of financial bother just recently.
In fact, her ability for speech has never been more admirably eliminated. The stunned look was accompanied by the perfect 'O!' of her mouth as she gazed at the unexpected bounty. A furtive photographer would have had a field day with the expressions of utter amazement.
If all this sounds a touch gauche and callow, it is, actually, easy to explain.
The Brit Guide has been around now for almost 15 years, while our venture into general travel territory last year with the less-than-epic Silver Surfers Colour Guide to Travel & Holidays - don't ask; it wasn't our title, just a commission we picked up very late in the day - had not created much of a ripple with the book-buying public.
Our other newspaper, magazine and online writing is often fairly prosaic, hence opportunities to work on something completely original and top-of-the-head have not been super-abundant recently. But The Hidden Magic was different. This had been Susan's quiet passion for at least five years, a veritable bee in the bonnet that would not buzz off and needed to be gently encouraged.
But, if the gestation period had been long, the delivery had been one of frenzied application, a three-month burst of inspiration and perspiration through the first half of 2008. When a publisher suddenly tells you at the end of March that, yes, they really like the idea and the two sample chapters - and can you get it all written by June? - it tends to have a seriously galvanising effect!
When Susan re-introduced herself to friends and family at the end of her marathon session - launching a whole new look on the world, incidentally, that was part haggard and part jubilation - it was with no real idea of how her work would actually, well, work out.
The long drawn out months of corrections, page proofing and more page proofing, the single-most loathsome part of book-writing - seriously, how many times can you read the same chapter without going completely barking? - that had occupied the latter part of 2008 had gone by in a blur, while early 2009 had proved ominously Hidden Magic-free.
Cue the courier's arrival in the midst of another hectic re-write session. And delight on a whole new scale with the final realization that this is actually, really happening.
So, if anyone happens to notice us on the few times we do emerge from our cocoon-like world in front of an array of three computers, one Mac and two laptops, they may just notice that one of us is walking without the benefit of actually touching the ground at the moment. But then she deserves it - it has been a really magical journey.

1,000 Immigrants To Be 'Sworn In' July 3 on Main Street, U.S.A. at Walt Disney World Resort

New citizens will attend premiere of re-imagined Hall of Presidents attraction, now featuring President Barack Obama figure

In a stirring celebration of citizenship, more than 1,000 immigrants will gather on Main Street, U.S.A. July 3 to be "sworn in" as American citizens.
And as the country kicks off Independence Day weekend, these brand-new Americans will attend a premiere performance of the newest Walt Disney World attraction, a re-imagined Hall of Presidents, now featuring a lifelike Audio-Animatronics figure of President Barack Obama.
From more than 100 countries and ranging in age from 18 to 82, the immigrants will take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States during a Friday morning ceremony jointly hosted by Disney Parks and Resorts and United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.
USCIS's highest-ranking official will preside over the ceremony on the forecourt of Cinderella Castle. The event will feature a welcoming address by Walt Disney World Resort President Meg Crofton, the presentation of the colors, the national anthem, the Oath of Allegiance and the Pledge of Allegiance.
Actor Andy Garcia - a naturalized citizen himself - will deliver a keynote address during the ceremony. Garcia, originally from Cuba, is an acclaimed actor known for roles in films as diverse as "The Untouchables," "The Godfather: Part III" and "Oceans Eleven."
"This year, Disney parks are asking our visitors, 'What will you celebrate?' " Crofton said. "And on a weekend when our entire nation celebrates its independence, we are honored to host - and celebrate - 1,000 individuals who are embracing American citizenship."

New Citizens to Preview Revised Hall of Presidents
To cap a star-spangled morning, the new citizens and their family members will get to preview the Hall of Presidents attraction - which reopens July 4 in the Liberty Square area of Magic Kingdom. The attraction has been closed since Election Day last November for a makeover that included installation of a lifelike Audio-Animatronics figure based on President Obama.
The figure of the country's 44th chief executive - which comes to life with recognizable mannerisms and makes comments that were recorded recently at the White House - is part of an eight-month makeover so significant that the iconic attraction has been retitled Hall of Presidents: A Celebration of Liberty's Leaders. Other updates to the "re-Imagineered" attraction which has been entertaining Magic Kingdom guests since 1971:
A re-programmed Abraham Lincoln delivers arguably the greatest speech in the history of the presidency - the Gettysburg Address.
For the first time in the attraction's history, George Washington stands and delivers a stirring speech.
Developed with the assistance of Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Doris Kearns Goodwin, the show now tells a moving story of the bond between the presidents and "We, the People," focusing on the chief executives who have guided America through trying, turbulent times.
"Our goal with every major Disney attraction is to completely immerse our guests in a compelling story," said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "The stories associated with the American presidency are some of the most engaging and relevant our guests will hear while they are with us. And, like all great stories, these stories inspire, motivate and teach us to appreciate the challenges and personal triumph that comes with overcoming adversity."

Presentations of the Hall of Presidents show will take place daily beginning July 4 and are included with Magic Kingdom admission.

Guests celebrating the Fourth of July at Walt Disney World Resort will have a choice of fireworks shows as Magic Kingdom and Disney's Hollywood Studios present special pyrotechnics and Epcot adds a patriotic "tag" to its famous "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth" spectacular. Here's what's in store:

Magic Kingdom - "Celebrate America Fireworks" will fill the sky at 9 p.m. July 4 (guests who'd like to begin the celebratory weekend a day early can enjoy the special fireworks on July 3 at 9 p.m.).
After the fireworks, guests can enjoy a performance of Disney's "SpectroMagic" parade of lights, music and magic at 10:30 p.m. on July 3-4. Park hours are 9 a.m.-11 p.m. July 3-4.

Disney's Hollywood Studios - Special fireworks will be presented at 10 p.m. on July 4, providing guests with a bonus nighttime entertainment extravaganza to complement "Fantasmic!" (which will be at 9 p.m. and 10:45 p.m.). Park hours July 4 are 9 a.m.-10 p.m.

Epcot - "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth," which features dazzling special effects, colorful lasers, brilliant fireworks, and fiery torches all choreographed to a musical score, becomes even more dynamic on July 4 as the normal show is supplemented with a patriotic finale. The performance begins at 10 p.m. Park hours July 4 are 9 a.m.-10 p.m.

Additional Walt Disney World guest information is available online at www.disneyworld.com.
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Sounds Like Summer Musical Revival Continues at Epcot
Musical tributes to legendary pop and rock acts continue in July and early August at Epcot as the Sounds Like Summer concert series brings popular tribute bands to the America Gardens Theatre stage. Acts celebrating the music of Bon Jovi, Billy Joel, the Supremes, U2 and Tom Petty will be featured in July-August.
Concerts, which are included in regular Epcot admission, are nightly at 5:45, 7 and 8:15 p.m. (except July 4, when show times will be 5:15, 6:30, 7:45 and 9 p.m.).
Here is the lineup (subject to change):
June 29-July 8 - Slippery When Wet - A Tribute to Bon Jovi
July 9-17 - 52nd Street - A Tribute to Billy Joel
July 18-26 - The Sounds of the Supremes - A Tribute to the Supremes
July 27-Aug. 2 - 2U - A Tribute to U2
Aug. 3-9 - Petty Theft - A Tribute to Tom Petty.

For more information, guests may visit Disneyworld.com or call 407/824-4321.
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The Pirates League Sets Sail in Magic Kingdom

Calling all scoundrels, rogues and ne'er-do-wells - Captain Jack and the crew of the Black Pearl want you.
The Pearl now drops anchor in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom for The Pirates League, recruiting and training Walt Disney World guests ages 3 and up 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. For more information about The Pirates League, visit disneyworld.com/crew.
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Fireworks Dessert Party Offered for First Time in Magic Kingdom

Magical finishes to evenings in Magic Kingdom can be sweeter than ever this summer, thanks to a limited-time Fireworks Dessert Party being offered June 23-Aug. 28, 2009.

The dessert party begins an hour before fireworks show time with a self-service buffet featuring a wide variety of sweets and beverages. Then, when "Wishes" (or an alternate, special-occasion fireworks show) begins to fill the sky, partygoers have an exclusive area to view the pyrotechnics.

The party and viewing are nightly (weather permitting) at Tomorrowland Terrace Noodle Station. Cost is $17.99 (age 10-up) and $9.99 (ages 3-9). Valid Magic Kingdom admission is required. Seating is limited and reservations are recommended (407/WDW-DINE).
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Exhibit of Princess Diana Artifacts Coming to Downtown Disney
The People's Princess Charitable Foundation, Inc. (PPCF) is bringing "DIANA-The People's Princess" - a major exhibit of royal artifacts - to Walt Disney World Resort for a limited time beginning in early July 2009. The experience, which will run through Nov. 30,2009, showcases the life and story of Princess Diana, one of the most iconic and inspirational figures in recent history, including a sampling of the royal dresses Diana chose to auction for charity and hundreds of authentic artifacts relating to her life.
"DIANA-The People's Princess" exhibit will be held in a 17,500-square-foot setting at Downtown Disney West Side adjacent to DisneyQuest. This unique exhibition is one of the largest collections of royal dresses and rare artifacts ever assembled for an American audience which provides an in-depth historical perspective of her life. The exhibit includes five rarely seen royal dresses worn by Princess Diana.

As part of this unique experience, guests will come to understand:
" The stories of Diana's own childhood and ancestry and how that lineage was influential in her selection as the future bride of HRH Charles, The Prince of Wales, the future King of England.
" Her magical royal wedding which was viewed by over 750 million people from around the globe; her favorite role as "mum" to princes William and Harry.
" Kensington Palace, the royal residence where Diana lived from the moment she became the Princess of Wales until her death and which today plays an active role in preserving her charitable legacy.
" The historical significance of her role as Princess of Wales and the impact she had through that role on the fashion industry and charitable landscape.
" How at the Christie's "Sale of The Century," 79 of Diana's royal dresses were sold to benefit charities which helped position her as an astute philanthropist.
" Her untimely passing and the massive media and public interest in the tragedy.
" The charitable impact still being recognized through her gowns and personal effects.
A hint at some of the items on display:
" Royal Doulton figurine of Diana in her wedding dress - Made in 1981 at the time of the royal wedding, the doll is wearing an exact replica of the famous wedding dress.
" The Black Velvet "V" Neck - Designed by Bruce Oldfield and worn by Diana for her official royal portrait in 1985.
" Wedding Breakfast booklet - Contains guest names and two tickets to observe the bride and bridegroom before and following the wedding ceremony in the quadrangle at Buckingham Palace and Clarence House.
" Three-foot doll of Diana as a young girl - Released by the Great American Doll Company in 1998 as a tribute to Diana, Princess of Wales.
"The late Princess used her globally renowned platform brilliantly," commented Maureen Rorech Dunkel, founder of PPCF. "She understood that the many different experiences she had in her life, both positive and negative, made her more relatable to the public. She used this quality to connect to the common masses and in doing so became known as 'The People's Princess.' She used her compassion to bring support to all those in need and is still to this date, almost 12 years after her tragic passing, regarded as one of the most influential humanitarians of all time."
"We look forward to The People's Princess Charitable Foundation bringing this unique experience to our Downtown Disney guests," said Kevin Lansberry, vice president of Downtown Disney. "We remain committed to offering guests new and exciting experiences they can only have at the Walt Disney World Resort."

Tickets may be purchased at the exhibit - $14.50 (ages 10 and above), $5 (ages 3-9). The exhibition will be through Nov. 30, 2009. Hours are 11 a.m.-11 p.m. daily.
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ABC Commissary ceases Breakfast

The ABC Commissary at Disney's Hollywood Studios has ceased Breakfast service. The location now starts operations at 11:00 am daily with Lunch service.
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Kids activity at Rock 'n' Rollercoaster

The KidCOT concept has migrated from Epcot to Disney's Hollywood Studios. The Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Kid Spot has recently opened near the KRNR The Rock Station snack kiosk. This new activity station offers children the ability to decorate large paper CD's at no cost. It is currently not known if this is the only Kid Spot location planned for the Studios or if others will be added around the park as well.
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Disney Channel Stars Hit the High Seas Aboard Disney Wonder
In a Disney exclusive, selected Disney Channel stars will set sail in July and early August, joining thousands of Disney Cruise Line guests aboard the Disney Wonder for eight special sailings during the first-ever "Disney Channel Summer at Sea" presented by Kodak.
Popular stars from Disney Channel's "Hannah Montana," "Sonny With A Chance," "Wizards of Waverly Place," "The Suite Life on Deck," "JONAS," "Camp Rock," "High School Musical" and "Hatching Pete" will sail with guests on three- and four-night Bahamian cruises taking place July 9 through Aug. 2. Aboard these specially themed sailings, Disney Channel stars will help pump up the volume during onboard deck parties and will join guests for Q & A and autograph sessions along with preview screenings of Disney Channel programming.
The onboard fun culminates with a "Party with the Stars" event, an evening during which guests are invited to join the stars for a special musical performance by a Disney recording artist. Radio Disney's Ernie D will broadcast live from two of the cruises.
For each cruise during "Disney Channel Summer at Sea," guests set sail with selected Disney Channel stars. A comprehensive list of stars participating is available at ww.disneycruise.com/summeratsea. Among those scheduled (subject to change) are:

July 9 Corbin Bleu ("High School Musical") and Tiffany Thornton ("Sonny With A Chance")
July 12 Corbin Bleu ("High School Musical") and Tiffany Thornton ("Sonny With A Chance")
July 16 Jason Earles ("Hannah Montana") and Oleysa Rulin ("High School Musical")
July 19 Musical act Mitchel Musso and Jason Earles ("Hannah Montana")
July 23 Chelsea Staub ("JONAS") and Jason Dolley ("Hatching Pete")
July 26 Chelsea Staub ("JONAS") and Jason Dolley ("Hatching Pete")
July 30 Debby Ryan ("The Suite Life on Deck") and musical act KSM
Aug. 2 Alyson Stoner and Meaghan Martin ("Camp Rock")
To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit www.disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500. Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888/325-2500 or visit www.disneytravelagents.com.
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Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party 2009 dates.

Every year at Disney's Magic Kingdom special parties are held for Halloween and Christmas. The dates for this year have been announced.

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
September 4, 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, 29
October 1, 2, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31
November 1

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
November 10, 12, 13, 17, 19, 20, 29
December 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 18

During Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Guests of all ages are encouraged to dress up in their favourite Halloween costumes. The tone of the event is "Not-So-Scary", and is appropriate for children of all ages. Tickets may be purchased in advance. Standard Magic Kingdom Theme Park admission tickets will not allow Guests to attend Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is held on select nights at Magic Kingdom and a separate ticket is needed to attend. The event is very popular as special features include a special parade, exclusive holiday fireworks, complimentary cookies with hot cocoa and a magical snowfall on Main Street.

Tickets go on sale May 1st, here's a link to the Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party pages.
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Hall of Presidents - Barack Obama.

A July reopening is planned for the Hall of Presidents, an iconic attraction in Magic Kingdom. An Audio-Animatronics version of President Barack Obama will join representations of the previous 43 presidents of the United States as part of an attraction that has been celebrating American history since Walt Disney World Resort opened in 1971. Disney Imagineers also are updating a broad array of show elements.

President Obama's likeness will have a speaking role, along with "George Washington" and "Abraham Lincoln."
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Guests are invited to a new nightly celebration at the Tomorrowland Terrace Noodle Station that includes a dessert party and exclusive viewing of Wishes nighttime spectacular.

This brand new experience starts Tuesday, June 23, and will be available all summer long through August 28, 2009. The Fireworks Dessert Party will open nightly to Guests one hour prior to the nighttime spectacular and includes a self-service buffet featuring a wide range of sweets and beverages. Offerings for Guests with special dietary needs will be available.

Guests are encouraged to call (407) WDW-DINE to make reservations. Reservations will be accepted beginning Monday, June 22. Reservations are not required but are highly recommended due to the anticipated popularity of this experience. Seating is limited. Space permitting, seating for walk-ups may be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The price for this experience is $17.99 for Guests ages 10 and over and $9.99 for Guests ages 3 - 9. Park admission to Magic Kingdom Park is required. The Disney Dining Plan is not currently being accepted. Prepayment will be required reserving seats for this event in advance.
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PLANS UNVEILED FOR "DISNEY'S AMERICA " NEAR PHILADELPHIA , PA
The Walt Disney Company plans to create a unique and historically detailed environment celebrating the nation's richness of diversity, spirit and innovation -- " Disney's America " -- to be located east of Philadelphia in Bellmawr NJ , it was announced today by Robert Iger, chairman and CEO of the company.
"In 'Disney's America' we will create a totally new concept using the different strengths of our entertainment company -- our motion picture and television talent, our park Imagineers, our interactive media and publishing executives as well as our sports enterprise and education executives -- to celebrate those unique American qualities that have been our country's strengths and that have made this nation the beacon of hope to people everywhere," Iger said. " We bring eighty years of entertainment experience -- many of them creating the world's most original parks -- to this project."
The park will be located on a 120-acre site the company has purchased or optioned in Bellmawr, Camden County NJ . It may also include additional acreage in adjoining communities.
Disney CEO Iger continued, "We have been looking at projects in the Philadelphia region for 20 years. The location in Bellmawr is a perfect match for us, as it combines several things that match our core Corporate values, specifically the efforts taking place to reclaim a once forgotten and dangerous landfill and turn it into something postive for the region."
A unique feature to the park, will be its direct link to the Philadelphia Historical region via a high speed rail line. Partnering with the Delaware River Port Authority and its Patco subdivsion, the DRPA has agreed to extend the Speedline into Bellmawr , NJ . "Bringing Patco through Bellmawr has been a long rumored project, and Disney provided us with the reasoning we needed to make this decision", said DRPA spokesperson Ed Rendell. "We will be opening the closed Patco station at the foot of the Ben FranklinBridge , and Visitors will able to seamlessly move between the real historical sites of Philadelphia , and the Disney version in Bellmawr NJ . Both train stations will be in the heart of thier respective attractions. Disney is even paying to retrofit several Patco trains into an early American theme."
Peter Rummell, president of Disney Design and Development Company, said the new park will differentiate itself from all others in both subject matter and presentation. Said Rummell, " 'Disney's America ' will allow guests to celebrate the diversity of the nation, the plurality and conflicts that have defined the American character."
Bob Weis, senior vice president of Walt Disney Imagineering, in charge of the project's creative development, said the park is envisioned as " an ideal complement to visiting Washington 's museums, monuments and national treasures."
"Beyond the rides and attractions for which Disney is famous, " said Weis," the park will be a venue for people of all ages, especially the young, to debate and discuss the future of our nation and to learn more about its past by living it."
The park will have facilities
to host and televise political debates, public forums and gatherings of writers, educators, journalists, students and historians to discuss issues of the past, present and future. The Disney-inspired American Teacher Awards also will be broadcast from the site.
At "Disney's America " guests may also find themselves piloting a World War II fighter by way of virtual reality or participating in a harrowing Lewis and Clark river expedition inside a Native American Indian Village or in the center of Revolutionary War and Civil War Battle re-enactments. They will even have an opportunity to meet every American president through the magic of Disney's Audio- Animatronics (R) technology.
" Disney's America " will include a number of unique guest experiences:
---- Entering the park, guests will find themselves in a detailed Civil War era village, which is the hub of " Disney's America ."
---- From there guests may venture to Presidents' Square, celebrating the birth of democracy and those who fought to preserve it.
---- Native America explores the life of America 's first inhabitants and offers an exciting white water river raft expedition.
---- Civil War Fort plunges guests into the most turbulent time in American history, and outside its ramparts the historic battle of the Monitor and Merrimac will once again be fought.
---- We the People introduces the compelling immigrant experience through music, ethnic foods and a powerful multimedia presentation, all inside a building resembling Ellis Island.
---- Enterprise , a factory town, highlights American ingenuity and features a high speed thrill attraction called the " Industrial Revolution."
---- Victory Field lets guests experience what America 's soldiers faced in the defense of freedom.
The location of the park and many of its historic themes are closely tied to the importance of the Philadelphia Region. Philadelphia has long been known as the birthplace of our country, and has a rich array of historical attractions.
" Disney's America " which includes the park and recreation area on 120 acres will create nearly 600 jobs, making The Walt Disney Company one of the largest private employers in Camden County . Direct and indirect economic activity generated by the project will result in $300 million in new tax revenues for the New Jersey and Camden County over the next 30 years, as well as $50 million directly to the town of Bellmawr .
The Walt Disney Company will work with state and county officials over the next several months to put together a package of public improvements that will make the project possible. They also will consult with local residents and businesses throughout the planning of the project. While long-term plans are not final, The Walt Disney Company proposes to build residences, hotels and mixed use development of the remaining land, much of which was slated to become the Waverly Farms housing development. The projected facilities, like the park, would be surrounded by greenbelts and open spaces for the benefit of the environment and neighbors.
" Disney's America " could open as early as 2011 if agreements are reached with state and county governments. The Bellmawr site is currently the only one under consideration.
" There is quite a bit of work ahead of us and many hurdles to overcome", said Rummell. " But The Walt Disney Company is very excited and very enthusiastic about this project and is committed to making it become a reality."
" Disney's America " will be the company's third location for a U.S. park, joining Disneyland in Southern California and The Walt Disney World Resort in Florida . Other Disney parks are located in France , Japan and Hong Kong
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Some Rumours
These were sent to me recently, not sure of the source however they are not confirmed.
1. STAR TOURS: rehab is rumoured, about to start.
Apparently, the original Star Tours was supposed to be updated every three years or so with a new film (ha!). So now, they're creating a new 3-D film (yes, everyone will have to wear 3-D glasses). The new film will be set in the time between Star Wars Films 3 and 4 (so, after Queen Amidala's death but before Luke finds Obi Wan and blows up the Death Star). But here's the cool part -- they're saying that the ride will now have hundreds of versions, so guests will never know what they're getting into....they're going to film about 25 openings, about 25 middles, and then 25 endings, so your ride will never be the same.
2. Fantasy Land in the Magic Kingdom is rumoured to be getting an expansion in Mickey's Toon Town Fair, a place that was originally designed to be only a 3-year entry. Apparently, Imagineers are adding "The Enchanted Forest," a place, according to the head story exec, where Princesses seem to always run into. So, yes, it sounds like it will definitely be a heavy does of princesses, but with lots and lots of room for kids and whole families to have tons of fun. Looks like it will include musical shows, story times, birthday parties, lots of character meet-and-greats (of course). We'll see if it turns out to be as cool as their promising. And the area between the castle and the Carousel is being transformed into a castle courtyard, complete with brand new themeing and shrubbery.
3. As speculated, the LITTLE MERMAID dark ride is going into both Disneyland AND WDW. It's taking over the space once occupied by the Subs.
4. The next major Disney theme park will be on 2,000 acres in Shangai. The Shanghai project looks to be pretty expansive, with lots of lakes, hotels, etc.
5. The Disneyland Hotel is getting a top-to-bottom rebuild. And the entire courtyard/recreation area is being torn down and rebuilt. Basically, Disney's almost rebuilding this hotel from scratch.
6. Disneyland Paris is getting a whole new TOYSTORY Play Place land, which looks like it's kind of like the "Honey I Shrunk the Kids" play area, but WAAAAAY more expansive and with actual attractions. We can probably expect to see some form of this in Florida soon, to replace the "Honey" play area.

7. Disney has purchased land in Washington D.C. to build a major resort/water park/themed area....basically, the head designer said that since Disney failed twice to build an American History-themed park, this was their attempt to "do it" right. The designs showed a very large historical-type resort hotel with an adjacent water part. They said, however, this plan was in the very early stages.
8. The POP CENTURY resort is back on track to be finished now, but the remaining hotels will be Animation Suites hotels, which are described as vacation suites for families on a budget -- and completely new concept for Disney. Waaay cool.

9. The Tree House Villas have all been replaced and are ready to be occupied by Disney Vacation Club members.
10. On the Cruise Ships, the areas for age-specific programming are being expanded, but the cool part is the new ANIMATOR'S PALETTE restaurants -- guests will actually draw cartoons when they sit down. These cartoons will be given to the "magic people." Then later, during the meal, those actual drawings will come to life and be animated on the walls next to each table. Very cool.
Also, the Turtle Talk with Crush is coming aboard the new Cruise Ships, and Crush will be swimming all around the Animator's Palette to interact with guests. Sounds cool.
11. Hong Kong Disney is getting site-specific attractions based on existing ones here in the states -- for example, instead of Haunted Mansion, they'll be getting the Mystical Manor, where a curse is released inside the house and all manner of supernatural things occur.