Tropical Storm Elsa sets her eye on Florida

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July 1, 2021

Tropical Storm Elsa sets her eye on Florida

According to the National Hurricane Center, Tropical Storm Elsa is on the move quickly westward and is expected to impact Florida as early as next week. Some strengthening is forecast during the next couple of days and it is possible Elsa could turn into a Hurricane…

Here are the details:

* A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Barbados, Martinique, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Tropical storm conditions are expected in portions of the Windward and southern Leeward Islands within the warning areas on Friday.

*A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Guadeloupe, Grenada and its dependencies. Tropical storm conditions are possible in the watch areas on Friday.Interests elsewhere in the Windward Islands, Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti should monitor the progress of this system. Additional watches and warnings will likely be required later today.

Interests in Florida should monitor updates to the forecast for this system, but it is too soon to determine what if any impacts could occur there next week given the uncertainty in the long-range forecast.

At 8 a.m. AST, the center of Tropical Storm Elsa was located about 789 miles (1255 km) east-southeast of the Windward Islands. It’s moving toward the west near 25 mph (41 km/h). An even faster motion toward the west-northwest is expected during the next 24 to 36 hours.

On the forecast track, Elsa will pass near or over portions of the Windward Islands or the southern Leeward Islands on Friday, move into the eastern Caribbean Sea late Friday and Friday night, and move near the southern coast of Hispaniola on Saturday.

Maximum sustained winds are near 40 mph (65 km/h) with higher gusts. Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 105 miles (165 km) from the center. Some strengthening is forecast during the next couple of days.

Elsa is expected to produce rainfall totals of 3 to 6 inches with maximum totals of 8 inches on Friday across the Windward and southern Leeward Islands, including Barbados. This rain may lead to isolated flash flooding and mudslides.

The next complete advisory will be issued at 11 a.m. AST – www.hurricanes.gov

If you have a Disney World vacation planned for this weekend or early next week I would keep an eye on Elsa.

Source

Animal Kingdom’s Burudika Band coming to Disney Springs in July

By

Greg Gately

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July 1, 2021

Animal Kingdom’s Burudika Band coming to Disney Springs in July. Wassalou, the name of the band, posted the announcement on Facebook. The first date they are performing at Disney Springs is July 1, 2021. We do not have showtimes yet. Also announced playing on July 17, 20, and 29. Keep reading to find out more about Wassalou and their music.

Wassalou –

Wassalou is an Afropop band that presents a unique talent to the North American cultural landscape. It’s the only band of its kind in Florida, bringing language, colorful traditional costuming, and dance straight out of Africa. Their repertoire includes Hi-Life, Afro 6/8, Soukous, and other popular African dance music similar to that which can be heard on Paul Simon’s Graceland album. Afropop is a term used to refer to contemporary African pop music. This term doesn’t necessarily refer to a specific style or sound, but rather is used as a general reference to popular music originating in Africa

Animal Kingdom's Burudika Band at Disney Springs

Jambooooo everybodyyyy!! Wassalou is back at Disney Springs in July!! Come catch us on the following nights!!July 1, 17, 20 & 29https://open.spotify.com/artist/17SAIs8Gkz0JLcu4Eiz4qv…

I can tell you personally, it will make your body move! Furthermore, it is fun and a learning experience. So what does the music actually sound like, you might be asking? Well, in 1986 Paul Simon released one of the biggest selling records of all time. Moreover, it changed the music landscape. Along with hits like “You can call me Al” and also “Diamonds on the souls of her shoes,” it would sell millions and millions of units. It also became one of my favorite full albums of all time. The African sounding beats and the voices of Lady Smith Black Mambazo were brought to the masses here in the States.

Animal Kingdom's Burudika Band from Animal Kingdom

Wassalou has previously spent time in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Their live shows are more than just music, the dancers in the band are amazing. I cannot recommend this band more. Animal Kingdom’s Burudika Band will have you moving and dancing and just having a good time.

Disneyland expands waste bins at theme parks

By

Sara

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July 1, 2021

Disneyland expands waste bins at theme parks

Disney is known for being committed to conservation and caring for the environment. The Disneyland Resort is making another change to help reduce the amount of waste going to landfills.

Now, along with the regular trash and recycling bins at Disneyland, guests will find a new food waste bin. Guests can help reduce the amount of waste going to the landfill by disposing uneaten food into the food waste bins. The food waste is then converted into feed nutrients for farm animals.

The Disneyland Resort Cast and Community posted about the new food waste bins on Facebook saying:

“The Journey to Zero Waste ♻️ On your next visit to Disneyland, you may spot a new food waste bin beside the traditional landfill and recycling bins.

Starting as a pilot at Galactic Grill in Tomorrowland, guests can help reduce the amount of waste going to landfill by disposing uneaten food into the food waste bins, which is converted into feed nutrients for farm animals.”

Magic Kingdom adds barriers to main entrance ahead of expected crowds

By

Sara

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July 1, 2021

Magic Kingdom adds barriers to main entrance ahead of expected crowds

Fireworks are returning to Magic Kingdom tonight! In preparation for large crowds, temporary barriers have been added to the park entrance.

The barriers are located on both sides of the entrance plaza for guests arriving and departing. Park pass reservations for Magic Kingdom are completely full for the next few days. Guests are excited for the return of the ‘Happily Ever After’ fireworks.

Tonight will be the first time fireworks have been seen at Walt Disney World in over a year!

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Disney slims down Plaza Ice Cream Parlor Menu

By

Sara

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July 1, 2021

Disney slims down Plaza Ice Cream Parlor Menu

The Plaza Ice Cream Parlor will be reopening in Magic Kingdom on July 7! This popular ice cream spot on Main Street U.S.A. is the perfect spot to grab a cool treat on a hot day. Sadly, not all menu items are returning when the restaurant reopens next week.

Some of the specialty treats are missing from the menu. Apple Blossom Sundae and the Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches are no longer listed. The Apple Blossom Sundae was an all-American dessert that was made of warm apple pie served with caramel sauce, whipped cream, a cherry, and a choice of two scoops of ice cream. The Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches were 2 chocolate chip cookies with the guest’s choice of ice cream in the middle.

Other items not on the menu at this time are the Kitchen Sink Sundae, the Peanut Butter Dream, the Minnie Sundae, and the Main Street Split. Those items aren’t normally on the regular menu so they might return later.

The items still on the menu are:

Brownie Sundae
The Plaza Ice Cream Sundae (2 different versions)
Ice Cream Float
Double Scooped Ice Cream Cone

What is your favorite treat to get from Plaza Ice Cream Parlor?

Meet the 2022-2023 Walt Disney World Ambassadors

By

Greg Gately

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July 1, 2021

Meet the 2022-2023 Walt Disney World Ambassadors. Walt Disney World Ambassadors: Ali Manion and Raevon Redding, won over the judges because of their radiant personalities, passion for empowering cast members, and eagerness to create unforgettable magic for the cast, guests, and Central Florida neighbors. Importantly, Ambassadors are selected through a rigorous process. Furthermore, the Ambassador program started in 1964 and continues to this day. These 2 will guide everyone through the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World.

For the past 57 years, cast members at our Disney Parks and Resorts across the world have been honored with the role of Disney Ambassador, representing the magic of Disney that has symbolized hope for people near and far for decades. The tradition dates back to 1964 when the tenth anniversary of Disneyland was fast approaching and Walt Disney was overwhelmed with requests for appearances and media interviews. To celebrate the milestone and recognize the talented cast members at the theme park, he chose Julie Reihm, a Disneyland cast member, to help him represent the park.

Now, as we eagerly prepare for “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” beginning October 1, 2021, we are thrilled to introduce you to the cast members who will carry on that special legacy throughout the 50^th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort as our 2022-2023 Walt Disney World Ambassadors: Ali Manion and Raevon Redding!

With more than 800 applicants, narrowing down our candidates turned out to be quite the challenge. Throughout what was arguably one of our toughest selection processes yet, these two exceptional cast members wowed us with their radiant personalities, passion for empowering cast members, and eagerness to create unforgettable magic for our cast, guests, and Central Florida neighbors.

Growing up in the Midwest, Ali’s dream of working for Walt Disney World Resort began during her annual family vacation to the resort, where she fell in love with the world of live entertainment through our theme parks. Eventually, she made her dream a reality and began her Disney career in Entertainment, a background she and Raevon share.

Raevon, a Winter Park native, has always had a special place in his heart for Walt Disney World Resort because both of his parents are former cast members! As a young student, Raevon was also a three-time recipient of the Disney Dreamer & Doer Award, which he earned through essay writing, volunteerism, and the impact he had on his community.

Yesterday, we were able to come together during a special ceremony at EPCOT to surprise Ali and Raevon’s families, friends and fellow cast members with the news that they will be taking on this one-of-a-kind role. It was a magical morning, to say the least.

While it feels impossible to think that our time with 2019-2021 Walt Disney World Ambassadors, Stephen Lim and Marilyn West, is coming to a close, we know that Ali and Raevon will bring together our cast members, guests and community with joy and hope as we head into an exciting period of celebration. Their enthusiasm, joy and passion inspire us, and we know that soon, they will inspire you, too. We can’t wait for you to get to know them better, so be sure to follow @wdw.ambassador on Instagram to keep up with their adventures.

There’s plenty more excitement ahead as we get ready to select the rest of our 2022-2023 Global Disney Ambassador teams, so stay tuned as we share all of the latest news.

Disney Characters will be making special appearances at Resort Hotels for 50th Anniversary

By

Sara

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June 30, 2021

Disney Characters will be making special appearances at Resort Hotels for 50th Anniversary

As part of the magic of staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel this fall, select characters will be visiting the hotels!

During the 50the anniversary celebration, which begins October 1, guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort hotels should be on the lookout for surprise appearances by some favorite Disney pals. Pals like Pluto and Goofy will be dressed in their EARidescent best and dropping by to visit with guests at Disney Resort hotels!

Guests staying at Walt Disney World hotels during the celebration will also enjoy perks like early theme park entry and extended evening hours. For both of these options, select attractions, merchandise and food and beverage locations will be available.

Disney has also shared that the Disney Dining Plans will be returning to Walt Disney World. They haven’t shared a specific date, only that the option will return at a later date.

Will you be visiting Walt Disney World during the 18-month 50th anniversary celebration? There’s still plenty of time to plan your trip! Contact me today for a free, no-obligation vacation quote.

Benefits of Staying at a Disney World Hotel during the 50th Anniversary Celebration

By

Sara

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June 30, 2021

Benefits of Staying at a Disney World Hotel during the 50th Anniversary Celebration

Many new surprises and offerings are coming to the Walt Disney World Resort for the 50th anniversary celebration this fall. Now, Disney has shared the benefits guests staying at at Disney World hotel will receive!

Starting October 1, 2021, Disney World will be rolling out a new early theme park entry benefit for Disney Resort hotel guests and guests of other select hotels, giving them the first chance to enjoy select attractions at EVERY theme park, EVERY day. These guests will also be among the first each day to see the dazzling decorations and EARidescent excitement. Guests will need a valid ticket or pass and a theme park reservation for the same park on the same date for early theme park entry.

In addition, with the kickoff of the 50^th anniversary, guests staying at one of the Disney Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resort hotels will also be able to enjoy extended evening hours on select nights in select theme parks. Extended evening hours will begin in early October with specific dates and parks to be shared at a later time.

For both of these options, select attractions, merchandise and food and beverage locations will be available. Be sure to also bring your MagicBand, Disney MagicMobile pass or Key to the World card linked to your stay, or another form of Resort ID.

Back at your Disney Resort hotel, you’ll enjoy even more magic! During the celebration, be on the lookout for surprise appearances by some favorite Disney pals like Goofy and Pluto, who will be dressed in their EARidescent best and dropping by to visit with guests at Disney Resort hotels!

These new offerings will join a number of other great services available for Disney Resort hotel guests such as complimentary on-site transportation and the direct-to-room service available in the My Disney Experience app. Disney also recently revealed reimagined rooms coming to two of the original Disney Resort hotels that opened alongside Magic Kingdom Park in 1971: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Contemporary Resort!

Have you booked your stay to experience the Disney World 50th anniversary celebration? There’s still time! Contact me today for a free, no-obligation vacation quote.

Disney Confirms Disney Dining Plan is returning soon to Disney World

By

Sara

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June 30, 2021

Disney announced today some special offerings coming to Walt Disney World this fall with the 50th anniversary celebration. Many of these offerings come as part of a Walt Disney World hotel stay. One Disney mentioned is the Disney Dining Plan.

Disney Confirms Disney Dining Plan is returning soon to Disney World

The guest-favorite Disney Dining Plan will be returning to Walt Disney World but we still don’t know when.

“While we’re not quite ready to share an update on timing, we are planning to bring this guest-favorite option back at a later date. We will also continue to reopen more Resort offerings, including restaurants like ‘Ohana (with the noodles!).”

The Disney Dining Plan was canceled when Disney World closed due to the pandemic and did not return when the resort reopened last summer.

We love that more offerings are returning to Walt Disney World and can’t wait to find out more about the Disney Dining Plan coming back!

The Nighttime Lights At Hogwarts Castle Returns Tomorrow at Universal Orlando

By

Susan Wilson

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June 30, 2021

The Nighttime Lights At Hogwarts Castle Returns Tomorrow at Universal Orlando

Universal has just confirmed that The Nighttime Lights At Hogwarts Castle show will resume tomorrow, July 1st. The show that runs nightly at dusk has been gone since the parks shut down last year. We are so excited to see them return tomorrow.

Guests can experience a dazzling spectacle of music and lights. On select nights, watch in awe from Hogsmeade™ village as projections are cast against the majestic backdrop of the castle. Embrace your Hogwarts™ pride as the four houses are celebrated in stunning light and sound. It’s a beautiful way to end your day at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

The show runs every 20 minutes from dusk to park close. The best viewing is in front of Hogwarts castle. The first show is always the busiest show so be prepared. We can not wait to experience this show again!

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson Announces New Amazon Christmas Movie “Red One”

By

Kaitlyn

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June 30, 2021

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson Announces New Amazon Christmas Movie “Red One” Seven Bucks Productions and Amazon Studios have partnered together to create a new Christmas movie called “Red One”. Johnson shared the news in a video via Instagram along with the caption:

“Hold my @teremana cos’ this announcement is BIG ?????✨? ? Our @sevenbucksprod is partnering with @AmazonStudios to deliver to you and your families an original global event movie called RED ONE. A new twist on our CHRISTMAS MYTHOLOGY and creating the most fun HOLIDAY UNIVERSE to enjoy. Imagine HOBBS meets MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET ??????Our RED ONE writer is one of the greatest action writers of all time, Chris Morgan. Chris wrote FAST 5 (my favorite Fast & Furious movie), FAST 6, FAST 7, FAST 8 and HOBBS & SHAW! Big mahalo to our partners Jen Salke and her hungry @AmazonStudios team for having a shared global ambition to deliver our original Christmas story to families around the world. And lastly, there’s only one person who can direct RED ONE and bring that one of kind Christmas mana and epic adventure and FUN to the film… That announcement coming soon! Christmas is my favorite time of year and I can’t for us to make this movie for you and your families. RED ONE ???“

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Be sure to check back here at Chip and Co. for updates and all things entertainment!

Featured Photo Credit: MICHAEL ROZMAN/WARNER BROS

Source: ComicBook

Summer Fun Sun Tea Perfect For The 4th Of July!

By

Ana Leal

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June 30, 2021

With 4th of July around the corner, why not sharing a delicious Summer Fun Sun Tea recipe you can enjoy with your family during this celebration!

This refreshed summer classic is perfect to have during your Independence Day barbecue or picnic, we are sure everyone will love it! And the best part is you can pick your favorite tea flavor!

Making it is super easy, just take a look at this recipe The Edison shared for all of you:

SUMMER FUN SUN TEA

INGREDIENTS:

8 tea bags
1 galloon of water
Honey, at least 1/4 cup
Citrus fruit, for garnish
Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

Add 8 tea bags to 1 gallon of water in a large glass container. You can use any combination of teas that you would like, choose your favorites and have fun!
Cover the glass container and set it out in the sun to seep until it reaches your desired color and flavor. On average, 1-3 hours.
Add 1/4 cup of honey at a time, stirring and tasting until you reach desired sweetness.
Garnish with your favorite citrus and a fresh rosemary sprig to add a beautiful and refreshing not of flavor.

Enjoy!

Credit: The Edison