ADRs are always very hard to get there. People start calling at the exact moment the become eligible to make them. Doesn't matter if its a slow time or not...by the way, there really doesn't seem to be a slow time anymore, its been quite busy year round.
As for the credit card charge, I don't think they submit it until you actually go there so I guess it could be eliminated. I sure somebody will have the exact answer. :wave: