2021 Arizona Renaissance Festival Cancelled due to COVID-19

*** 2021, 33rd annual Arizona Renaissance Festival is Cancelled***

*** 2021, 33rd annual Arizona Renaissance Festival is Cancelled***

The 33rd annual Arizona Renaissance Festival & Artisan Marketplace will open on February 6, 2021 with new guidelines in response to COVID-19. This includes new ticketing procedures, and heightened safety operations for its 50 acres of open air fairgrounds.

TICKETS: 

• For 2021, date specific tickets must be purchased Online in Advance: 
• Adults (ages 13 and over): $28 
• Children (ages 12 and under) will receive FREE admission at the gate, with no child ticket or coupon required this year, an $18 value courtesy of Fry’s Food and Drug Stores. 

*** 2021, 33rd annual Arizona Renaissance Festival is Cancelled***

The Queen and her Court continue a legacy with outdoor merriment for 9 weekends on February 6, through April 4th , 2021 (an extra weekend).

The Fair held in Gold Canyon, Arizona is a 50 acre outside Amusement Park and Artisan Marketplace, themed as a 16th century European styled Village called 'Fairhaven'. Attendees are immersed in a whimsical and historical setting featuring over 200 artisans shops, 14 stages stages of live entertainment, human-powered rides, games of skill, jousting knights, music and comedy. Also there is ample food and drink of many variety to tease any royal palate. 

For the 2021 festival, tickets will be limited quantity date-specific and must be purchased online in advance of arriving at the festival grounds. General admission tickets will NOT be available for purchase at the fairgrounds box office or traditional retail locations for the 2021 event. 

Free event parking and children ages 12 and under will receive FREE admission at the gate with no child ticket required this year, an $18 value, courtesy of Fry’s Food and Drug Stores. 

For 2021, the festival has new safety protocols and guidelines for its patrons, staff, artisans, and performers. The festival’s open-air fairgrounds offer ample opportunity for social distancing within the 50-acre Village of Fairhaven. Masks will be required of all festival visitors unless eating or drinking in one of the fairgrounds many designated socially distanced picnic areas. Guests are encouraged to stay socially distant from persons or groups they are not with. Frequent hand washing is encouraged, and hand sanitizer stations are located throughout the grounds. 

The festival offers an opportunity to enjoy and explore the outdoor 16th Century village for nine consecutive weekends including Presidents’ Day  from February 6 through April 4, from 10 am to 6pm each event date. 

For more information contact the Festival at 520-463-2600 or on the web at arizona.renfestinfo.com.

WHAT: 33rd Annual Arizona Renaissance Festival & Artisan Marketplace.

WHERE: Festival site is located east of Apache Junction at 12601 East US Hwy 60.

WHEN: The Festival runs from 10AM until 6PM for 9 weekends (Saturdays, Sundays, and Presidents’ Day Monday) from February 6 through April 4. 

Open rain or shine. HUZZAH!

*** 2021, 33rd annual Arizona Renaissance Festival is Cancelled***

Volunteers of the Seas - Royal Caribbean Test Sailings

Royal Caribbean (NYSE:RCL) has launched a website where you can volunteer and apply to be a passenger on an upcoming test sailing in preparation for the relaunch of cruising in the U.S.. Over 20,000 people signed up in the first 24 hours to assist the company in earning their ‘conditional sailing certificate',

Cruise ships haven't been sailing since March 14th, 2020, but the CDC officially lifted its ‘no sail order‘ on October 31st, 2020 and implemented a strict ‘conditional sail order' which gives cruise lines permission to sail again in U.S. waters if they meet all safety requirements. 

As of this post, no official date has been set for the trial cruise/s but according to the Royal Caribbean website, the cruise line has scheduled their first real cruises starting in January, 2021. This means that the test sailings could come as early as December giving the cruise line enough time to for its voyages to be given the green light by the CDC. 

The trial cruises are expected to sail to Royal Caribbean's private island of Cococay which will allow the cruise line to strictly control the voyage conditions. Onboard the simulation cruises will be CDC officials, cruise line officials and an unbiased third party auditor.

COVID-19 prevention protocols passengers can expect during the test cruise and real cruises once they start are mandatory Covid testing and temperature checks before boarding, face coverings in public areas of the ship, reduced ship capacity, socially distanced dining and shorter voyages. 

A simulated voyage must meet the following requirements:

• The cruise ship operator must design and conduct a simulated voyage insofar as practicable to test the efficacy of the cruise ship operator’s ability to mitigate the risks  of COVID-19 onboard its cruise ship.
• Volunteer passengers are to be told in writing of the "inherently risky activity" of their test sailing.
• All volunteer passengers must be at least eighteen years old or older.
• All volunteer passengers must have a written certification from a healthcare provider that they have no pre-existing medical conditions.
• Royal Caribbean must conduct any simulation on a consensual basis.
• Royal Caribbean must embark additional crew members beyond safe minimum manning levels only as determined through CDC technical instructions or orders.
• The cruise ship operator must conduct a monitored observation period and laboratory testing of volunteer passengers, as directed in CDC technical instructions or orders, prior to embarking volunteer passengers on a simulated voyage.

Get Free Comped Cruises from URComped.com

Strawberry Creme Vampire Kisses For Halloween - HERSHEY'S

Hershey’s has announced its 2020 line up of new Halloween candy to get you ready for the Halloween season.

All four of Hershey’s new Halloween candies are available nationwide for a limited time this Fall (MSRP $3.79), along with returning favorites like Reese’s Peanut Butter Pumpkins, Pumpkin Pie Kit Kat, Hershey’s Glow-In-The-Dark wrappers and Hershey’s Monster Milk Chocolate Kisses.

• Reese’s Franken-Cup Peanut Butter Cups have an eerie green chocolate shell.
• Kit Kat Witch’s Brew is covered in a ghostly green marshmallow flavor creme. 
• The Vampire Milk Chocolate Kisses are filled with a blood red strawberry cream, with purple and red bat-print foil.
• Cookies ‘N’ Creme Fangs: Mini Hershey’s Cookies ‘N’ Creme bar with the shape of Dracula’s fangs. 

And for more Hershey's fun, the Las Vegas strip is sweet! Visit HERSHEY'S CHOCOLATE WORLD Attraction, located in the famous NEW YORK-NEW YORK Hotel & Casino, with more than 800 Hershey products. Address: 3790 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

Haunted Halloween Tour: 7 days in Dublin, Edinburgh & London

Discover a spookier side of Dublin, Edinburgh and London

October 27th to November 4th 2021 or 2022

On this once a year "Hallowe'en" tour to the British Isles a local guide will show you landmarks of Dublin, Edinburgh, and London; Plus, you’ll experience special excursions showcasing the haunted side of these cities. What better way to celebrate All Hallows Even, than with Ghost tours through historic neighborhoods, murder mysteries, and attending the Samhuinn Fire Festival at Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.

Take a look at all available EF Go Ahead Tours, including the 2021 & 2022 Haunted Halloween Tour

Samhuinn (also called Samhain and Sauin) is a Gaelic festival marking the end of the harvest season and beginning of winter. Celebrations beginning on the evening of 31st October and run through November 1st.

 

Tour package includes:

• 7 nights in handpicked hotels
• 7 breakfasts
• 3 dinners with beer or wine
• 3 sightseeing tours
• Expert Tour Director & local guides
• Private deluxe motor coach
• 1 on-tour flight from Dublin to Edinburgh
• 1 train ride from Edinburgh to London

See the full EF Go Ahead Tour Itinerary

Highlights:

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• Temple Bar district
• Edinburgh Castle
• Edinburgh ghost tour
• Halloween night at the Samhuinn Fire Festival on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile
• Trafalgar Square
• Tower Bridge
• Buckingham Palace
• Jack the Ripper tour

Additional add-ons available:

• Hampton Court Palace Ghost Tour 
• The Tower of London’s Dark Past tour

Fully Refundable Booking Period: Book today and feel good about your decision. If you change your mind, you’ll receive a full refund of your payment through April 1, 2021 for your 2021 tour and May 1, 2021 for your 2022 tour.

Cancelled - AZ Halloween Marketplace - September 19th, 2020

The AZHaunters.com Haunted Swap Meet is now the AZ Halloween Marketplace and has been canceled for the 2020 Halloween Season.

FREE ATTENDANCE & FREE PARKING

The AZ Halloween Marketplace, formerly the Haunted Swap Meet, is a one-day annual marketplace held every September where you can buy, sell, and trade your homemade, gently used Halloween props and collectables to other haunters.The event is a gathering of Halloween enthusiasts that buy sell or trade props, costumes, decorations, and other Halloween related items. Buy, sell and trade till you have the perfect yard haunt.

Over 100 Vendors featuring Halloween wares

• Artisans selling hand-crafted or original wares 
• Home haunters selling thrift-sale-type items
• Entertainers 
• Make-up artists 
• This year they are adding a haunted house *$5 charge to enter haunted house
• Hearse Display
• Raffle with hourly prize drawings
• Special Appearances by:
• AZ Ghostbusters
• United Zombies
• Live Pumpkin Carving by Villafane Studios (master carver)

You will find creepy cupcakes, costumes, spell books, macabre original artwork, and so much more.

They are again in a nice air-conditioned venue at MetroCenter Mall. If you attended last year, you know how big the crowd was and will be happy to know that they are taking over the entire lower level of the mall instead of a single store space. That means you can use any mall entrance and should not expect any lines standing between you and your Halloween fun!

The AZ Halloween Marketplace is organized by The AZHaunters.com website, an online community of individuals of all ages that have come together celebrate Halloween Haunting by sharing and learning with each other. The HAunted Swap Meet began in 2015 with a half dozen members gathering on a lawn to trade props (hence the original name Swap Meet), and has since grown with over 6,000 attendees last year.

AZ Haunters gather together in person and online to share prop making techniques and ideas, chat about Halloween, and help each other out with haunting plans. They also hold "Make & Take" crafting events approx once a month, this is where they meet in person and you learn how to construct various Halloween props..

*********************UPDATE* CANCELLED *UPDATE**************************

With the closure of Metrocenter Mall, the event's location is now in question?

*****************************************************************************

Parking is free!

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes, anticipate walking up and down every aisle
• Stay hydrated, Water will be available for purchase.
• Bring Cash, many of the vendors will accept credit cards, some may not
• Restroom facilities will be available in the main mall area.

For More information Contact AZ Halloween Marketplace or Become a Vendor

Did you know? July 4th - American Independence

Did you know?

John Adams believed that July 2nd was the correct date on which to celebrate the birth of American Independence. Adams would reportedly turn down invitations to appear at July 4th events in protest.

On July 2nd, the Continental Congress voted in favor of Lee’s resolution for independence in a near-unanimous vote. On that day, Adams wrote to his wife Abigail that July 2nd “will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival” and the celebration should include “Pomp and Parade…Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other.”

July 4th, is the day Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence. From then on the 4th became the day that was celebrated as the birth of American Independence.

Charles Thompson and the infamous John Hancock were the only two men who actually signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The official signing occurred on August 2, 1776, when a majority of delegates signed it. Thomas McKean did not sign until January 1777.

Two of America’s Founding Fathers also did not sign the Constitution: Thomas Jefferson (who is largely regarded as the main author) was representing the country in France and John Adams was doing the same in Great Britain.

George Washington, John Jay, Alexander Hamilton, and James Madison are typically considered as "Founding Fathers", but are not signers on the Declaration of Independence.

Although we know Thomas Jefferson as the primary author, the Continental Congress appointed five people to draft the declaration. The committee included Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Roger Sherman, Robert Livingston and Thomas Jefferson.

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

Metrocenter Mall dies at age 47 - June 30, 2020

After 47 years, Metrocenter Mall in Phoenix is closing its doors for good, according to a letter from the mall's general manager Kim Ramirez.

The mall was opened for business in October 1973 as the largest shopping center in Arizona and was the first two-level, five-anchor mall in the country.

Charter tenants in the 100 million dollar shopping facility included Dave Cook Sporting Goods, See's Candies, Lerner Shops, Rozenweigs Jewelers, Toys By Roy, Butterfield Station, Judy's ladies' wear, Waldenbooks, Guggy's Coffee Shop, Florsheim Shoes and a Farrell's Ice Cream Parlour.

In the Glory Days, Metrocenter was a destination in itself, with an ice skating rink, arcade, and dozens of specialty stores all under one roof.  In 1976, the amusement park Golf 'N Stuff (now Castles-N-Coasters) opened in the southeast corner of the mall's parking lot providing 10 acres of rides and miniature golf.

The Ice Capades Chalet skating rink featured in appeared in Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure (1989 Comedy Adventure movie) was closed in 1990.

The Harkins Metro 12 held its grand opening March 19, 1999.

In January 2004, Metrocenter was sold by DVM Co. to Macerich Company and AEW Capital Management who brought back the founding developer, Westcor.

In 2005, several of the mall's retail stores which also appeared in Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure, such as Oshman's Sporting Goods and Casual Corner, closed in when those chains' went out of business.



Metrocenter's interior was revamped in 2007 with an aim at comfort and technology.

In 2010, Jones Lang LaSalle took over management and 15% ownership of Metrocenter Mall from Westcor.

Since January 2012, the mall has been owned by the Carlyle Development Group based in New York City.

May 2012, a temporary artificial ice rink was opened for the summer at the mall.

In 2016, a massive redevelopment of Metrocenter was approved by the Phoenix City Council to allow office, medical and residential space.

A Walmart opened at the mall in 2017 with hopes that it would revitalize the area.

The property planed to host a monthly “Metro Feastival” starting Saturday, June 15, from 5:30-9 p.m. where 10 to 20 food trucks would park outside the food court near the Harkins Theatre. But with Covid-19, people just are not willing to turn out in crowds.

June 19th, 2020, the announcement of closure. "We hope to see Metrocenter redeveloped and revitalized in the near future so it can once again be the pride of the surrounding community," wrote Ramirez.

June 30th, 2020 will be the death of a place full of memories, but long only sustained by life support.

I spent my teenage years at the mall. Please comment below with your great memories of this hang out.

Go-Karts, VR, & More At Octane Racing In Scottsdale AZ

Octane Raceway is considered one of the best cart-racing places in America. Their 1/3-mile track is impressive, being the only full-time go-kart track in the country that goes both inside and outside. That's not the half of it though, as the place is actually a full entertainment complex featuring a fun VR experience, all kinds of arcade and party games, food and drink service, and more.

Great for Birthdays or Corporate events, there's plenty for everyone to do. Almost all their activities are well-suited for group activities and parties, making it an excellent place for a family day trip or a full-on get together with friends or colleagues.

Entertainment Options For Everyone

• High-Speed Kart Racing - Strap in for an intense racing experience with carts that can reach up to 45 miles per hour! The track itself is pretty exciting, starting indoors and winding around outside before leading you back in. Adult races are 14 laps while junior races are 10, which is definitely enough time racing to get your money's worth. There's no age limit to the carts, however, they do require everyone to be at least 4"8, and anyone under 18 must have their parent or guardian sign a waiver.
• Velocity VR - Imagine a cross between a laser tag arena and a video game, and this is what you'll get. The Virtual Reality experience at Octane is totally immersive. You can walk, run, peer around corners, make plans with your group, and more while feeling just like you're inside a video game. They have three games to choose from, somewhere it's player vs player and others where you need to work together to survive. Oh, and you'll be fighting against zombies, aliens, robots, and more.
• Full Arcade - There's also plenty of traditional video games in the arcade, featuring all classics from Big Buck Hunt to Jurassic Park. Plus, there are the play-to-win games that could send you home with a prize. A great place to hang out while waiting for your race or VR game to start.
• Mini Bowling - A truly fun game for all ages. It's bowling on a smaller scale with ten miniature pins on a slimmed-down alley. A great experience for younger players, since the smaller size does a lot to even the odds.
• Patio & Outdoor Games - A nice and comfortable place to relax outside. There's plenty of space to sit and even more activities like a giant Jenga game and Cornhole area.
• The Backyard Grill - A great spot for burgers, sandwiches, tasty snacks and appetizers, and a great selection of drinks. Definitely worth eating at while you're here, especially after a few hours of racing, gaming, and everything else.

The facilities in Scottsdale are really sleek, clean, and enjoyable to be in. There's really never a dull moment between all there is to do. You can sign up for races right as you walk in, and they'll fit you into the soonest race available. While you're waiting, there's plenty of games to keep you busy, but you can also watch the races happening before you and see the results coming in on their huge TV displays. Doing a high-speed race and a virtual-reality shootout is an exhilarating way to spend the afternoon no matter who you are. Plus, they're open year-round 365 days a year.

Be sure to check out Octane Racing's website for me info.
Address: 9119 E Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Phone: (602) 302-7223



Stay tuned for my review of Undead Arena Velocity VR, powered by Zero Latency.

Also, be sure to get in touch with us here. We're always interested in hearing about the best entertainment, attractions, and other fun stuff across the Southwest.

2020 Season of The Queen Mary's Dark Harbor officially cancelled

2020 Halloween Season of The Queen Mary's Dark Harbor has officially been cancelled due to the ongoing COVID-19 concerns.

Dark Harbor normally runs in September, October and November at the The Queen Mary in Southern California. Dark Harbor is a terrifying haunted attraction based around the history of the haunted ship. The Queen Mary was named one of the top 10 most haunted places on Earth by Time Magazine in 2008.  Among the ghosts reportedly still haunting, are a sailor who died in the engine room, a "lady in white", and children who drowned in the pool. The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor brings the true haunted tales of The Queen Mary to life.

Epic Entertainment Group, the production company behind Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor in Long Beach, CA announced today that both Halloween attractions (Dark Harbor in Long Beach, CA and Dark Horizon in Orlando, FL) have been canceled for the 2020 season due to COVID-19.

In a statement released on Facebook the company shared the following:

"It is with heavy hearts that we can now confirm the 2020 seasons of The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor (Long Beach, CA) and Dark Horizon: Point of No Return (Orlando, FL) have officially been cancelled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and in line with federal, state and local guidelines.

As always, maintaining the safety and security of our guests, actors and crew is of the utmost importance.

With the uncertainty that lies ahead in the coming months, these unfortunate decisions could not be avoided.

We look forward to the 2021 haunt season and will share more about the future when we are able.

In the meantime, please stay safe and be well."

The suspension of the ship’s hotel operation was effective May 7th. Prior to that the bars, restaurants and events on the ship had already shut down on March 16. So though sad, not really surprising that Dark Harbor Halloween Event was sunk amid coronavirus pandemic

 

Is Demolition in the Cards for MGM's Luxor Resort and Casino?

I personally like the themed nature of the Casino Resorts in Las Vegas. I Like Circus Circus  and the Live Circus acts. I miss Treasure Island and the nightly battle of pirates and Sirens. New York New York, Paris, Excalibur and Luxor all attract me for the themed entertainment and decor.

So anytime I hear a major casino resort in Las Vegas may have plans to revamp and de-theme like Monte Carlo which is now Park MGM, Treasure Island which is now TI, Imperial Palace which is now Linq and MGM Grand forgoing its “Wizard of Oz” roots; It saddens me.

I do understand the need for remodels and updates and even them changes, but would prefer Vegas keep resorts and casinos themed.

Enough Whining... On to the rumors.

While no official announcement has been made by MGM Resorts, the iconic Las Vegas Luxor Resort and Casino could be facing demolition if the gossip is to be believed. The consideration is believed to be based on the distinctive and limiting design, which does not allow for much in the way of change. There is also some possible issues regarding inability to repair structure and talk of a MLB ballpark looking for a spot on the strip.

The same face-lift dilemma is rumored to be a topic possibly being discussed regarding the Excalibur Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas as well.

Luxor opened 26 years ago, on October 15, 1993. During a time when Las Vegas was much more focused on attracting families. In recent years it has tried to return to its Sin City roots. Las Vegas spent the 1990s trying to attract families by transforming into a kid friendly entertainment destination, but children don't gamble and neither do parents who are entertaining children.

Some de-theming of casinos in Las Vegas began earlier this decade and many changes have already been made at Luxor and other casinos to move away from the original themes. However, it’s nearly impossible to re-image a massive pyramid.

Sources say MGM company officials have discussed the demolition of both Luxor and Excalibur for the last five years and perhaps the COVID-19 shutdowns may contribute to rumors.

MGM Resorts’ real estate investment trust MGM Growth Properties (NYSE: MGP) owns the physical assets of Luxor.

MGM Las Vegas Casino and Resort Opening Announcements

Las Vegas Casino and Resorts were shut down back in March as part of Governor Steve Sisolak’s mandatory closure of non-essential Nevada businesses.

MGM Resorts has since announced return of some of it's Las Vegas hotel-casino operations:

Starting on June 4 with the reopening of the Bellagio, MGM Grand and New York-New York.

Excalibur is set to open on June 11

The Luxor will reopen on June 25th.

Followed by Aria, Mandalay Bay and Four Seasons Las Vegas on July 1.

The upcoming reopenings will come with several new safety protocols to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. These include screenings and temperature checks for employees, who will be required to wear masks. Social distancing also will be implemented, with plexiglass barriers to be installed where distancing restrictions are more difficult.

MGM Resorts will also offer free parking when it's properties reopen.

Looks like Las Vegas Strip may be planning to open for Memorial Day Weekend?

All nonessential businesses in Nevada were temporarily closed on March 17 by Governor Steve Sisolak because of COVID-19. Sisolak’s order was extended through April 30.

MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) company spokesman says they have canceled room reservations at its Las Vegas properties through May 21.

According to a Securities and Exchange Commission filing, whenever the Las Vegas Strip reopens, MGM officials expect to open their properties incrementally. MGM's filing indicated the company’s 10 casinos on the Las Vegas Strip will be opened in phases. However With reservations for Friday May 22nd and the Memorial Day weekend not being included in the cancellations notice, this may indicate that the first phase will be a soft re-opening for the holiday weekend for those who already have reservations.

Visiting the MGMResorts.com webpage, the first available date for booking is June 1st. This may indicate a second phase in re-opening of the Las Vegas Strip for new reservations.

Because of the economic fallout from the Coronavirus pandemic, MGM's stock took a downturn around February 20th and bottomed around March 18th, dropping approx $25 a share the day after Vegas was shuttered.

While the company isn’t scheduled to release its first quarter financial performance until 4/30/20, company officials predicted dire results for the first quarter of 2020. MGM is estimating its consolidated net revenue total for the quarter to be about $2.3 billion, which would be about a 29% decrease from the same period in 2019.

Officials also mentioned MGM’s solid liquidity, the company reported it has about $6 billion in cash. The domestic properties still cost about $270 million per month to maintain and have begun "aggressive cost reduction initiatives".

About 52,000 of MGM’s 80,000 world wide employees are based in Las Vegas.

MGM Properties: Bellagio, ARIA, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, Delano Las Vegas, Park MGM, The Mirage, New York-New York, Luxor, Excalibur.

Not knowing how long travel restrictions will last and how scared the population is to return to crowded venues, it remains unknown how fast the casinos will get back to normal. So these cost cutting measures will help ensure sustainability until it is back to business as usual.

No matter what, vacations like Casinos, Cruises and Theme Parks will likely be forever changed.

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CDC - Cruise Line No Sail Order Extended

Cruise ships haven't been sailing since March 14th, 2020, and that means a lot of refunds being issued by Carnival (NYSE:CCL), Royal Caribbean (NYSE:RCL), and Norwegian Cruise Line (NYSE:NCLH).

On Thursday April 9th, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced an extension of a No Sail Order for all cruise ships for 100 days. This means Ships won't sail til at least mid-July.

The highly leveraged cruise lines are attempting to retaining the funds already paid to them for Spring and Summer bookings and encouraging guests to accept 125% credits toward a future cruise and/or large amounts of on-board credit to rebook a future date.

Even those booking new cruises are getting great deals. For example, I checked today on a Cruise to Mexico and the cruise, taxes, fees and gratuities add up to less than the onboard credit Carnival offered, meaning I would make $6.78 on taking the cruise.

All 3 cruise lines have taken steps to slow spending, but cash flow is still needed.

As the cruise lines are not registered in the US, they may not be eligible for US Government loans and assistance from the Stimulus. Carnival is incorporated in Panama, Norwegian is incorporated in Bermuda, and Royal Caribbean is incorporated in Liberia.

Royal Caribbean has recently accessed approx $3.5 billion from existing credit lines.

Carnival has shown that at the right price, the cruise industry can find the money it needs amid turmoil caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) panic. Carnival initiated an effort to raise over $6 billion to shore up liquidity. Approx $4 billion was raised by selling its debt by way of secured bonds (secured by a first-priority claim on the company’s assets). The three-year bonds have a yield of just under 12%. Information released during the bond offering: Carnival has received 39,000 bookings since it stopped sailing, and 45% of customers whose cruises had to be canceled/rescheduled chose credit for future trips as opposed to cash refunds.

On 4/6/20, a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission shows that Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) now owns an 8.2% stake in Carnival. Saudi Arabia’ PIF held no stock in the cruise line at the start of 2020.

The same day, Carnival director Randall Weisenburger paid $10 million for a large block of shares at $8 a share. He now owns 1.38 million Carnival shares,  he had last bought Carnival stock on July 3, 2019, when he paid $930,000 for 20,000 shares, a per-share average price of $46.50.

Swiss bank USB report issued March 31, found that 9% more cruises have been booked for 2021 than were being booked the same time last year. This does include people using credits for canceled cruises, but the increase still shows many have the desire to book a cruise and the industry will bounce back when restrictions are lifted. How soon will you plan your next cruise?

Carnival Cruise Line

Customer service: 1 (800) 764-7419
Reservations: 1 (800) 327-9501
Headquarters: Miami, FL

Norwegian Cruise Line

Customer service: 1 (866) 234-7350
Reservations: 1 (866) 234-0292
Headquarters: Miami, FL

Royal Caribbean International

Customer service: 1 (800) 256-6649
Reservations: 1 (866) 562-7625
Headquarters: Miami, FL


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Disneyland & Universal Studios Hollywood Close Amidst Coronavirus Panic

Disney and Universal Studios close California parks in March to help halt spread of Coronavirus. Update: Knott's Berry Farm announced on Facebook, they are following suit.

Walt Disney Company spokesperson released a statement this afternoon saying, “While there have been no reported cases of COVID-19 at Disneyland Resort, after carefully reviewing the guidelines of the Governor of California’s executive order and in the best interest of our guests and employees, we are proceeding with the closure of Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, beginning the morning of March 14 through the end of the month”.

Another California Theme Park, Universal reported a closure with a similar statement, “The health and safety of our team members and guests is always our top priority,” said a spokesperson for Universal Studios Hollywood. “Out of an abundance of caution and in response to the guidance provided by the California Department of Public Health, Universal Studios Hollywood will temporarily close beginning Saturday, March 14,” they added. “The theme park anticipates reopening on March 28 as we continue to monitor the situation.”

This is only the 3rd time Disneyland has fully suspended operations since opening on July 17, 1955.

• Day of mourning following President John F. Kennedy's assassination
• Response to 9/11 

There was also a partial shut down in 1994 for safety inspections after the Northridge earthquake.

Universal Studios' Citywalk will remain open as will Disney Downtown, both feature eateries and shopping.

Disneyland will also keep its hotels open until Monday, March 16 "to give guests the ability to make necessary travel arrangements.". Park officials are expected to work with guests looking to change or cancel visits.

Disneyland temporarily reaches capacity a few times a year during the peak tourist seasons (estimated 80,000 capacity with approx 65,000 visitors on an "average" day), usually in mid-summer and around Christmas break. That means there will be over a $7 Million dollar loss per day in just ticket sales.

Estimates of a two-day closure of the Disney World in Florida following Hurricane Irma in 2017 were an approx $100 million hit to Disney's operating profits.

Disney stock fell to $91.81 USD, down −$13.78 (13.05%) from previous close of $105.59.

Is The Walking Dead Attraction closing at Universal Studios Hollywood?

Update, This has been confirmed:
Universal Studios Hollywood spokeswoman Audrey Eig stated “We continually evaluate our entertainment offerings and are thrilled guests have enjoyed ‘The Walking Dead’ attraction as part of our daytime mix,” She continued to report “A temporary “Walking Dead” maze will return during the park’s annual Halloween Horror Nights event.”

This information has not been confirmed by Universal Studios Hollywood, so treat it as a rumour until an official announcement is made.

According to www.insideuniversal.net, the only source I could find making this claim: The Walking Dead Attraction (TWDA) which is a year-round walk-through haunted house, may close on March 3rd, 2020.

Located in the Upper Lot, the attraction is located near the theme park’s entrance in a building built specifically for it. The attraction opened July, 4th 2016.

You follow in the footsteps of Rick Grimes, Daryl Dixon and other survivors, making your way through iconic scenes!

The speculation appears to come from the walk-through's proximity to Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash Attraction, set to open this Spring. Universal Studios is in the process of transforming the area from Baker Street to Pets Place, connecting the family-friendly Illumination Entertainment properties.

TWDA has been a staple in Halloween Horror Nights and replaced the previous haunted attraction 'Universal’s House of Horrors'.

So what are your thoughts? Will it close? Should it Close?

The Room Escape Games - Avondale, AZ

"The Room" escape games is owned and operated by a local family of Escape Room enthusiasts, who took what they loved most from escape rooms around the country and developed something they felt was worth sharing with your friends and family.

The Room Escape Games is more than just escape room entertainment; They are a private and special event venue, offer event catering, and serve alcoholic beverages on-site.

TREASURE ISLAND

Billy Bones seemed like your normal buccaneer but when vicious pirates came for him and gave him the black spot (a pirates death sentence), he let the secret out. There is a treasure map hidden in the tavern that leads to Captain Flint's Treasure! Find the map and the treasure could be yours. You must find it fast for there are bloodthirsty pirates who know about the map and will gut anyone who gets in their way!

TIME: 60 MIN |  LEVEL: BEGINNER  | AGE: 12+

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BLACKOUT MOTEL

You slowly awaken from unconsciousness, groggy, you look around the room and see a dead body and evidence of a violent fight, but you have no recollection of what happened or how you got there. In fact, you realize you have no memories whatsoever! Since it looks like you murdered the man on the bed, you can’t call the police. The real killer could return at any time to finish the job. You’ve got to figure out what happened and fast! Good luck making it out of THE BLACKOUT MOTEL alive!

TIME: 60 MIN  |  LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE  | AGE: 16+

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SPEAKEASY

Welcome to February 15, 1929, it is the day after the St. Valentine’s Day massacre where Al Capone hired his men to gun down the men of bugs Moran in the streets of Chicago. Bugs was supposed to be assassinated with them but he did not show up on time and when he saw the police he left. Bugs has now hired you to get retaliation on Capone. You must break into his speakeasy, find his three business ledgers, steal his cash and detonate a bomb. Can you escape before you're blown to bits?

TIME: 60 MIN  |  LEVEL: DIFFICULT  | AGE: 16+

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Check out the competition, can you get your name on the Leaderboards?


The Room Escape Games
Phone: 623-936-5524
Email: info@theroomaz.com
Address: 10210 W McDowell Rd Ste 100, Avondale, AZ 85392

HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday:  3:00PM - 9:00PM
Wednesday:   3:00PM - 9:00PM
Thursday: 3:00PM - 9:00PM
Friday: 3:00PM - 10:00PM
Saturday: 12:00PM - 10:00PM
Sunday: 12:00PM - 8:00PM

Follow "The Room" escape games on Instagram: @theroomaz and Facebook: The Room AZ to stay informed when they reveal a new theme. Their goal is to create a new theme approx once a year depending on the demand of current rooms.

Stay up to date on events like Paint and Sip or Murder Mystery by joining their event mailing list.


The Room Escape Games is more than just escape room entertainment; They are a private and special event venue for parties and corporate events. They offer event catering and serve alcoholic beverages on-site.

CORPORATE EVENTS & TEAM BUILDING 
Teams who successfully escape the room usually feel more connected and inspired.

HOLIDAY PARTY
Holidays are all about being together with friends, family, and loved ones. That's why The Room Escape Games are a great way to celebrate for the holidays.

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS
Skip the typical birthday activities and bring your friends & family in for a unique and unforgettable experience. They are also the only escape room in Arizona that serves alcohol!

BACHELOR / BACHELORETTE PARTIES
Looking for the perfect idea for your bachelor/bachelorette party? They are also the only escape room in Arizona that serves alcohol!


Beat Escape Rooms - Tips and Tricks to Win Escape Games

Jousting at the Arizona Renaissance Festival

Cheer on your Knight in the 5,000 seat Arena of Champions as two tons of horse, knight and armor gallop onto the field, prepared to do battle for a Lady's honor.

The Arizona Renaissance Festival is open Saturdays, Sundays and President's Day
From February through March; 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM.

Tournament Jousting is held three times a day at the Jousting Arena!

After the Jousting Contest has concluded, enjoy music and comedy at the Arizona Renaissance Festival's Royal Faire! The 30 Acre Village includes 14 stages of entertainment!

Over 2000 costumed characters, including Living Mermaids
Over 200 Unique Artisan Shops
Games & Rides for All Ages
Mini escape rooms presented by Escape Rooms Mesa

 

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Tilting

The historical sport of jousting originally emerged as a training exercises (called mêlée) for soldiers. Most people refer to jousting as being two riders engaging each other with long spears (a lance). Technically this activity should be referred to as "Tilting" and was only one of many weapons training activities in a jousting tournament, which include archery and swordplay.

If you have ever seen a Knight's Tale with Heath Ledger, you see that even though his skill seems to be in sword play, he wants the prestige of winning at the tilting match.

This extreme sporting contest of archery, Swordplay and Tilting (where two knights on horseback were armed with blunted lances and charge at each other) can be traced back to the Middle Ages and the rise of the use of the heavy cavalry (armored warriors on horseback). The feudal system, required rich landowners and nobles to provide soldiers to fight for the king during wars. Jousting events provided Knights with hands on battlefield preparation in horsemanship and weapons skills between battles.

The first recorded reference to a jousting tournament was in 1066 (same year as the Norman conquest of England and Battle of Hastings). By the early 1100's jousting tournaments had become so common that the Monarchy placed regulations limited the number of jousts that could be held. This was to prevent knights from being occupied in a distant location when they were needed for battle.

As the Middle Ages progressed, specialised armour and rules gradually turned jousting into the event that we are familiar with today. They were often held as celebrations: to mark a victory in battle, the signing of a peace treaty, or a royal a wedding like the one that resulted in the death of King Henry II.

A knight would wear a helmet and a heavy suit of armor, which might take as long as an hour to put on. They also wore a coloured surcoat displaying the Knight's coat of arms. Each knight had a different color and coat of arms making them recognisable to their fans.

These tournaments were formal events where nobles would obtain royal permits, issue challenges to fellow nobles and then select the most skilled knights to fight. In some instances, they would hire “freelancers" (a jouster who was not committed to any liege) who fought for the highest bidder.

By the 14th century, many members of the Nobility, including Kings had taken up jousting to show their own courage and talent. England’s King Henry VIII suffered a severe leg injury when a horse fell on him during a tournament in 1536. In 1559, King Henry II of France participated in a joust to celebrate the marriage of his daughter to the king of Spain and ended up dead after a sliver of his opponent’s lance broke off and pierced him in the eye.

Point systems varied slightly but, generally the most points were awarded for knocking the opponent off the horse. Points were also awarded for breaking the lance on the opponent's Cuirass (breastplate). The least points were awarded for a strike with no break of the lance tip. Points were also often deducted if the horse was struck.

In the later 15th Century, when guns changed warfare, jousting became more recreational entertainment for the Royal Courts. By the end, some Jousting events were even choreographed and the events often included other entertainment and would share similarities to today's Arizona Renaissance Festival or Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament.

32nd Annual Arizona Renaissance Festival and Artisan Marketplace

Visit the 2020 Arizona Renaissance Festival & Artisan Marketplace;

A 16th Century Medieval Amusement Park and Faire

The Arizona Renaissance Festival is an interactive entertainment event, where you will enjoy non-stop revelry in the streets and on 14 stages. The Faire is packed with comedy, music, mischievous antics, dancing, circus performers and jousting knight. Fun awaits you in this 16th Century, 30 Acre Village of Fairhaven!

You never know what is going to happen, when you mingle with the King & Queen, enjoy good-humored teasing with the Village Fool, or dance with the gypsies! Become a part of the action or relax as you roam the festival village and shops!

Location : Village of Fairhaven
Street Address : 12601 E. US-60, Gold Canyon, AZ 85118
Phone : (520) 463-2600

Start Date : 02/08/2020
End Date : 03/29/2020
Day of week : Every Saturday, Sunday and President's Day
Opening time : 10:00 AM
Closing time : 06:00 PM

Performer :

The Arizona Renaissance Festival has over 2000 costumed characters and 50 plus acts on 14 stages, including Jousting Knights, The Lynx Show, Living Mermaids, Zilch the Torysteller, Twig the Fairy, Don Juan and Miguel and The Ded Bob Show

The Arizona Renaissance Festival Marketplace has over 200 Unique Artisan Shops

Games & Rides for All Ages : The Arizona Renaissance Festival will again Feature mini escape rooms presented by Escape Rooms Mesa.

Over 15 Food Purveyors :

A huge food variety, including Feast of Fowl (Turkey Legs), Michelangelo’s Pizza, Friar's Fries, Italian food, Greek Food, Specialty Coffees, Bakery Delights and of course beer and mead.

Don't miss the deliciously entertaining Pleasure Feast. Reserve your seats today!

Admission Price :

Purchase discounted tickets in advance at Fry's Food Stores.
$26 for adults
$16.00 for children 5-12
under 5 always free

Buy Online and Save $1.00, no additional fees! - Use the discount code FBFANS and save $3!!!

Purchase admission tickets the day of the event at the Festival Box Office - Coupon
$28.00 for adults
$18.00 for children 5-12
under 5 always free

Military Discount Tickets at the Festival Box Office
$25.00 for seniors 60 and over
$25.00 for active and/or retired military personnel and their spouses.
$15.00 for child dependents ages 5-12 of active and/or retired military

Parking is FREE, courtesy of Fry's Food Stores.

Arizona Renaissance Festival - Escape Rooms Mesa

The 2020, 32nd Annual Arizona Renaissance Festival and Faire will again Feature 8 all new mini escape rooms presented by Escape Rooms Mesa.

These rooms are single room, multiple puzzle games. Each Mini Escape room will cost $10 and you will have 15 minutes to solve the puzzles and escape.

•  Davinci 
•  Kraken 
•  Dragon 
•  Dungeon 
•  Excalibur 
•  Dark Forest 

The escape rooms are in the back, just NorthWest of the entrance to the Jousting Arena.

For a review of the rooms they presented last year, which were both challenging and fun - Escape Rooms Mesa Arizona Renaissance Review

The Arizona Renaissance Festival is open Saturdays, Sundays and President's Day from February 8th, 2020 through March 29th, 2020. 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM.


For year round revelry, Escape Rooms Mesa main facility is located just East of Country Club and North on University Dr. on the North East corner of University and MacDonald.
Phone: (602) 632-1542
Address: 86 W University Dr, Mesa, AZ 85201

Escape Rooms Mesa offers an experience like none other; They have over 16 different rooms in a 15,000 sqft 4 story building, making them the world’s largest escape room facility.

The rooms consist of puzzles that require teamwork, but more importantly the rooms require out of the box thinking. The rooms range from 60-90 Minute games and cost $25-$35 (per person), depending on the Experience.

Escape Rooms Mesa also offers 5 mobile game units with the option of 2 fifteen minute games, 2 thirty minute games or a 1 hour game. This is great for parties or corporate events.

For more information visit escaperoomsmesa.com


Beat Escape Rooms - Tips and Tricks to Win Escape Games

Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek Cancels Annual Peach Festival

After a 22 years, a popular spring events in Queen Creek, AZ is coming to an end. The owners of Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek has elected to no longer hold their annual peach festival.

Ray Schnepf has been growing peaches for over 50 years and Schnepf Farms Peaches have been named the best in the country by Wine Spectator Magazine. They grow 8 different Peach Varieties: Snow Angle, Florida Prince, Earligrand, Springcrest, Florida King, Princess Peach, Schnepf Peach.

The Peaches ripen at different times throughout mid April until May, which makes having availability for the huge crowds on one weekend hard to accommodate.

"The festival has simply become too popular to handle the crowds of people that visit the farm on the single weekend," owner Mark Schnepf said in a statement to ABC15. "And it has become more and more difficult to have peaches ripe for one particular weekend when you depend on Mother Nature." "By spreading out the crowd, we can ensure the public a more enjoyable experience when they come to pick some of the finest peaches in the country," the statement said.

Mark and Carrie Schnepf, the owners of Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek, have decided they will instead have the farm open every weekend for the entire six-week peach season. The farm will be open Thursdays through Sundays.

There will be no more tasting tents or live music, but some of the festival's staples will remain. On Saturdays, they will have grilled peach pancakes for sale.People will still be able to pick their own peaches from the farm's 5,000 peach trees, go to the petting zoo and go on the rides. The bakery will also still make and sell its large peach-filled cinnamon rolls, peach cobbler and muffins.

Peach sales can also be done by pre order online, or calling by 480-987-3100.

They also hold a Christmas at Schnepf Farms event in the Winter and a Schnepf Farms Pumpkin and Chili festival in the Fall.

Arizona Renaissance Festival - Win Free Tickets

Win FREE Tickets to the 2022 Arizona Renaissance Festival

• Prize: 2 Adult tickets, 2 child tickets and a VIP Parking Pass (Children under 5 are always free)
• Deadline: Winners will be announced 01/28/2022
• Rules to win: Follow me on Facebook and/or Instagram and Tag 1 or more friends in the below post/s using the hashtag #AZRenaissancePirateFest in your comment.

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To learn more about the Arizona Renaissance Faire, visit the links below and enjoy one of the special themed weekends:

• February 5th & 6th – Opening Weekend
• February 12th & 13h – Romance/ Italian Age of Chivalry/ Carnevale Weekend
• February 19th, 20 & 21st – Royal Raucous Abounds Weekend
• February 26th & 27th – Time Travelers Weekend (Cosplay from any time period or genre)
• March 5th & 6th – Pirates & Brew Fest Weekend
• March 12th & 13th – Celtic Weekend & Artisan Appreciation
• March 19th & 20th – Wizards & Warlocks Weekend
• March 26th & 27th – Celebrating Theater Weekend
• April 2nd & 3rd – Fairytale Fynery Final Huzzah

WHAT: 2022 Arizona Renaissance Festival & Artisan Marketplace.

WHERE: Village of Fairhaven is located east of Apache Junction at 12601 East US Hwy 60 in Arizona.

WHEN: The Faire and Market Place are open from 10AM until 6PM for 9 weekends (Saturdays, Sundays, and Presidents’ Day Monday) from February 5th through April 3rd. The festival offers an opportunity to enjoy and explore the outdoor 16th Century village from 10 am to 6pm each event date. 

2022 Arizona Renaissance Festival Discount Coupon

Open rain or shine. HUZZAH!