Discount for hotel military room

Over the last few years the importance of our nation's military and the sacrifices their families make have become more evident to more people. Commercial recreation providers are among those eager to show their support and thanks tar the work these people do. Many are providing free or reduced rates at their centers. Here's just a few of the offerings we've heard about.

Anheuser Busch's Seaworld/Busch Garden Theme Parks are promoting "Heroes Salutes" until Nov. 11. Active-duty military, active reservists, U.S. Coast Guard, National Guardsmen and as many as four of their direct dependents receive one free day admission to all Anheuser-Busch theme parks, including Seaworld, Busch Gardens and Sesame Place. For details, go to www. seaworld.com.

Universal's Orlando resorts are offering a "Military Appreciation Program--Bonus Pass" until Dec. 19. Active-duty military, active reservists and National Guardsmen receive a free five-day bonus pass valid for Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. This pass also includes the CityWalk Party Pass. Military ID must he presented to the front gate admissions to obtain this special pass. Family and friends receive a 50 percent discount. For more information, call 407-363-800 or visit www.universalorlando.com.

Disneyland has a "Disney's Armed Forces Salute" until Dec. 19. Active military personnel receive a free three-day ticket good for admission to Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure parks, and can purchase companion tickets during the offer period liar up to five family members or friends for $39 each. For details, go to www.disneyland.com/ military.

Disney World in Orlando has a different program. For its "Disney's Armed Forces Salute," which runs until Dec. 19, active military receive a five-day ticket for free admission into the Walt Disney World theme parks, two Disney water parks, Pleasure Island and more. Each active member of the U.S. military may obtain one complimentary five-day "Disney's Armed Forces Salute" ticket during the offer period. During the offer period, active military (includes activated National Guard and Reservists) personnel may also make a one-time purchase of this same ticket for $49.95, plus tax, for up to five family members or friends. For details, go to www. disneyland.com/military.

Disney Cruise Line is also having special rates for military personnel For information, call 888-3125-2500. Disneyland Resort Hotels in California and Florida also will give active military personnel a 40 percent savings per night, based on the non-discounted price of the same room. This offer is available most nights during the offer period, but the number of rooms available at this savings is limited. For details, go to www.disneyland.com/ military. Universal has a similar program for its Orlando resorts (Portofino Bay Hotel, Royal Pacific Resort and Hard Rock). Call 800-292-7827 tot information.

And to get there? US Airways' "Salute Savings" provides special rates for U.S. military personnel as low as $79 each way, based on a roundtrip purchase for reservations made until Dec. 31 (travel completed by Feb. 12, 2004). Contact a travel agent for details.