Send a Magical Message to Crush Now Being Offered At Epcot

By

-

December 13, 2018

Grab shell, dudes! Send a Magical Message to Crush is now being offered at Epcot in Walt Disney World.

So you visited The Seas with Nemo and Friends to ride the waves with your favorite characters from Finding Nemo in the big blue world, talked to Crush and friends from Finding Dory at Turtle Talk with Crush, and walked through the aquarium full of a wide variety of amazing sea creatures and photo ops… now what?

Whoa! Before you just walk through the gift shop to get to the exit, don’t miss out on this new and unique opportunity for you and your little Squirt!

Guests visiting The Seas with Nemo and Friends Gift Shop now have the opportunity to leave a magical message to Crush the Sea Turtle. Righteous! Just ask a Cast Member at the register counter for assistance and they will give you a card that looks just like this:

Using a crayon, or your own writing utensil, you can write your name and a short message to Crush the Sea Turtle!

When you dudes are done filling out your magical message put it in the treasure chest to send your massage to Crush! No worries, man, Crush will get your card at the end of the day.

Crush is sure to treasure these far out messages from his buddies visiting from all over the world! This new offer is totally sweet and a great way to interact with one of the chillest dudes this side of the E.A.C. (That’s the East Australian Current). Your little Squirt will thank you for thinking of them and think that you so totally rock!

Be sure to visit The Seas with Nemo and Friends at Epcot in Walt Disney World to join in on this fun and unique opportunity while it lasts.

Liberty Belle River Boat Running at Magic Kingdom but Still Not Open

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

December 13, 2018

After a very long refurbishment (11 months and counting) the Liberty Belle is finally showing signs of life! On a recent visit to Magic Kingdom, we noticed the riverboat was making its rounds along the Rivers of America! Though it is still not open to guests, surely this is a sign that the long-awaited reopening is imminent…we hope!

On January 8, 2018, the iconic attraction closed for what was announced as a 6-month refurbishment. During that time the boat was completely removed and the waters drained. Track work, cleaning, and a maintenance overhaul were scheduled to be performed. The work proved more intensive than previously thought, however, and in July the project was extended through Fall 2018. We had hoped this would mean it would be open for Halloween guests, but that did not happen. The water itself was not refilled until late September and the boat did not make a reappearance until late November. At that rate, does that mean we can expect a late January reopening? Disney has not made an official announcement as to when guests will once again enjoy the beautiful serene water of Rivers of America aboard the Liberty Belle.

While we are eagerly anticipating being able to once again ride this Magic Kingdom original it is very encouraging to see it in motion once again! Is this a must dofor you, or do you tend to skip it? No matter which, I’m certain you’ll agree, the Magic Kingdom hasn’t been the same without the beautiful Liberty Belle in the backdrop!

Booking for Garden Rocks Dining Packages at Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Now Open

By

Heather Adamczak

-

December 13, 2018

Booking for Garden Rocks Dining Packages at Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Now Open

Garden Rocks Dining Packages are the best way to get a fabulous meal and enjoy primary seating for one of the concerts going on at the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival. You can now book your dining packages! You can book your packages here or contact your travel agent today!

Last month we shared that the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival dates were announced and now we have more news about the event. New this year, the Garden Rocks Concert Series will expand to seven days a week! This means over 270 concerts spanning over the entire 90-day event. Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival offers outdoor kitchens and beautiful flower and topiaries all around the park. There have been a limited number of artists announced and more will come as weeks go on. Keep checking back as we add to this list.

March 9-10: Glass Tiger “Don’t Forget Me (When I’m Gone)”
March 17-20: Simple Plan “Welcome to My Life”
March 28-29: Berlin featuring Terri Nunn “Take My Breath Away”
March 30-31: The Smithereens (NEW to Garden Rocks) “Top of the Pops”
April 3-4: Christopher Cross (NEW to Garden Rocks) “Sailing”
April 5-7: The Spinners “Working My Way Back to You”
April 12-13: Sister Sledge (NEW to Garden Rocks) “We Are Family”
April 17-19: Sister Hazel (NEW to Garden Rocks) “All For You”
April 20-21: Steven Curtis Chapman (NEW) “Cinderella”
April 22-23: TobyMac (NEW) “The Elements”
April 24-26: Lonestar “Amazed”
April 27-30: The Orchestra starring former members of ELO “Evil Woman”
May 1-4: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone “I’m Henry VIII I Am”
May 5-7: Don Felder, Formerly of the Eagles “Hotel California”
May 20-21: Colin Hay of Men at Work (NEW) “Who Can It Be Now?”

Check Out the Coffee and Hot Chocolate Hub at Magic Kingdom

By

Jessica Jones

-

December 13, 2018

Check Out the Coffee and Hot Chocolate Hub at Magic Kingdom!

The Coffee and Hot Chocolate Hub at Magic Kingdom is perfect for a cold morning at the most magical place on earth! I know on these cold mornings in New Hampshire, like today when it is only 9 degrees out, I often crave a hot beverage. I am not a coffee fan, but I will take Hot Chocolate any day! Just add a little dollop of whipped cream and I’m good to go for the day!

You never know what the weather will bring in Florida, I lived there for a few years so I understand that it fluctuates daily. So this coffee and hot chocolate hub located right in front of the castle is perfect for guests! I love that you can purchase the beverage in a little souvenir cup. Look how cute Mickey and Minnie are all bundled up in their winter gear. I can just picture guests walking around Magic Kingdom in their snow hats and scarves carrying their cute little mugs. These would make cute Holiday pictures. I just love the Holidays!!

Guests can find this amazing refreshment cart in front of the castle at Magic Kingdom, but only until 11:30am. Guests should also be aware that even though these cups resemble a resort refillable souvenir mug these special mugs do not come with free-refills. Enjoy the Holidays!!

Ready to experience the Disney magic yourself? Well, pack your bags and get ready! As an agent that specializes in Disney Destinations, and the official travel partner for Chip and Co, I can help you begin your journey. Just click the Key to the World Travel Picture, email me at [email protected], on facebook or fill out the form below for a free no-obligation quote.

Disney World Worker Fired After Stealing $49K From the Company

By

Heather Adamczak

-

December 13, 2018

Disney World Worker Fired After Stealing $49K From the Company

Monday, a man was arrested for stealing nearly $50,000 from Walt Disney World. WFTV 9 Orlando is reporting that Orange County Sherrif’s arrested Jamaica Hall of Kissimmee, Florida. Between April and December of 2016 Hall issued fraudulent credit card refunds to hotel guests which he then transferred to his own personal checking account.

Hall worked the front desk at several Walt Disney World Resorts throughout the time of the theft. Hall has admitted to taking the money and has been arrested, investigators say. There were not any hotel guests affected by the $48,531 in fraudulent refunds to Halls personal account. Walt Disney World has since fired him and filed charges.

Orange County Sheriffs are stating Hall was booked into the Orange County Jail on charges of grand theft in lieu of $10,000 bail.

Source WFTV 9 Orlando

Universal Orlando and Orange County Schools Celebrate the Opening of the Universal Education Center

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

December 13, 2018

Universal Orlando and Orange County Schools Celebrate the Opening of the Universal Education Center

Have you ever thought about going to work and school right inside of a theme park? Impossible you say?! Well, I raise you one Universal Education Center. No, I’m not kidding…for 25 years the Orange County Public School System has been teaming up with Universal Orlando to give students a unique experience that has culminated in the opening of a new facility, the Universal Education Center.

This center allows students to work right inside the theme park! See, we weren’t pulling your leg. The Universal Education Center (UEC), is a fantastic school-to-work program based in Orlando and run by the two entities.

So, what exactly is the UEC! It’s a school, but not just any school! Complete with four classrooms, the UEC is a technology-filled space dedicated to alternative learning for its students. Students complete their coursework within the school and then head off to work within the parks! Pretty cool, huh?

The UEC is complete with brand-new tools available to its bright, young students as well as a fully functioning computer lab, and to celebrate its opening students, past graduates, and faculty was given an exclusive tour of the new facility. Guests of the ceremony were treated to face-to-face talks with staff and faculty, plus past students. Many of which shared their pleasure of the close-knit bonds developed and small group interactions. Many students expressed that the culture and its commitment to work and school show in all aspects of their lives.

In addition, guests were also provided education regarding the Mentorship Program. Probably one of the coolest aspects of the UEC, current Universal Orlando Team Members meet with students every week and provide support and guidance as they made their way through scholastic studies and work experiences.

The program, in all of its uniqueness, is a great one. With a focus on both education and practical application, students seem as if they will be ready for the challenges of the work-place prior to graduating…and that my friends, is something that can never be taken from you!

Courtesy of UniversalOrlando.com

Nightmare Before Christmas Roses from Roseshire are to die for!

By

Danielle

-

December 13, 2018

As a Disney fan, I always love seeing Disney magic showcased in different ways. The Disney x Roseshire Roses are one of those beautiful ways to spread a little Disney magic with a unique twist. With Roseshire bouquets it’s truly more than a simple arrangement, it’s an experience.

Every detail is carefully executed with these Disney arrangements. The details really help to create a stunning visual experience. From the attentive boxing for delivery, to the intricately detailed packaging, right down tot he hand-sealed wax card you definitely feel like a Disney Princess getting to open up one of these amazing arrangements.

Roseshire was wonderful enough to send me an arrangement inspired by The Nightmare Before Christmas, which has always been one of my favorite Disney Films. I had seen the pictures online, but I really wasn’t expecting such a large box! The roses came packaged in a coffin shaped Nightmare Before Christmas inspired box that was over 2 feet tall! Each rose had an individual water vial, and foam was packed around to secure the longevity of the roses too.

I was even more impressed with the pop of the seal! I found the beautiful white roses nestled inside as the coffin box door creaked open. The inside of the “door” has a gorgeous graphic of Jack and Sally together. One thing I usually find when I am shipped white roses, is there is a lot of bruising on the petals. I was pleasantly impressed to find pristine creamy white petals inside.

My absolute favorite detail from this bouquet is the inclusion of Blue Thistle. These are probably the closest real life flower resemblance to the one Sally holds in a NBC. In the movie it turns into a Christmas Tree, before catching fire as a warning for Jack. An entire stem of them is included, with several blooms.

The contrast of the Blue thistle on the White Roses is truly an elegant way of capturing the look of the film, as a romantic bouquet.

If you have a Disney obsessed loved one in your life, the Disney x Roseshire Roses are both an experience and perfect romantic gift. You can find The Nightmare Before Christmas Roses, as well as arrangements inspired by Mickey, Aladdin, Frozen, and more at Roseshire.com.

You can also check out a video reveal, and more box details below!

48370529_2008393022793448_3056618273400422400_n

48155225_199701924303318_3469572992294453248_n

48056283_2017419425217175_4683063689077587968_n

Festival of Fantasy Parade Will Show Twice on December 15th

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

December 13, 2018

If you’re a fan of the Festival of Fantasy Parade at the Magic Kingdom, you’re going to want to keep reading. Parade goers will be delighted to know that the fan favorite will be presented twice on Saturday, December 15th. At 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., EST guests will be able to enjoy a double dose of Mickey and Minnie, costumed cast members, and eye-popping floats!

Of course, as a double performance of the parade takes extra time, some other common events will be impacted. Don’t worry, however, we’re here to keep you in the know:

There will be no 11 a.m. performance of the Main Street Trolley Show
Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire: 10:25 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 3:15 p.m., and 4:15 p.m. with no 11 a.m. performance
The Muppets Present…Great Moments in American History: 10 a.m., 10:35 a.m., 12 p.m., 12:35 p.m., 1:05 p.m., 3 p.m., 3:40 p.m., and 4:15 p.m.

As far as this being a permanent fixture…no, it isn’t! So no need to worry. But if catching the parade is something you’ve always wanted to do, Saturday is as good an opportunity as any!

If you’re unfamiliar with the parade, usually held daily, the parade begins Frontierland and ends down MainStreet U.S.A. Some of your favorite characters add a bit of magic alongside Mickey and company. Included are some hard to find favorites such as Smee and Captain Hook. If you’re a villains fan, don’t worry! There’s a healthy representation of those classic Disney antagonists as well.

The parade (which debuted in 2014) has been a fan favorite ever since, and you can believe that we will be there early to get our spot for both showings this Saturday!

VIDEO: ‘Mary Poppins Returns’ Cast & Filmmakers Press Conference

By

Robbie

-

December 12, 2018

In Disney’s “Mary Poppins Returns,” an all-new original musical, Mary Poppins is back to help the next generation of the Banks family find the joy and wonder missing in their lives following a personal loss. Directed by Rob Marshall from a screenplay by David Magee and a screen story by Magee & Marshall & John DeLuca based upon the Mary Poppins Stories by PL Travers, the film stars: Emily Blunt as Mary Poppins; Lin-Manuel Miranda as Jack; Ben Whishaw as Michael Banks; Emily Mortimer as Jane Banks; Julie Walters as Ellen; Pixie Davies, Nathanael Saleh and Joel Dawson as the Banks children; with Colin Firth as William Weatherall Wilkins; and Meryl Streep as Cousin Topsy.

“Mary Poppins Returns” is produced by John DeLuca, p.g.a., Rob Marshall, p.g.a., and Marc Platt, p.g.a., with Callum McDougall serving as executive producer. The film features all-new original songs with music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Shaiman, as well as an original film score by Shaiman.

During a recent press conference in Beverly Hills, CA, we had the opportunity to hear from some of the Cast and Filmmakers. See the full press conference below.

There is a classic nature to the telling of ‘Mary Poppins.’ It requires the essence of classical musical filmmaking, but at the same time is very contemporary and feels very alive and very in the moment,” says producer Marc Platt. “Rob is a master at coordinating all of that. His approach is precise, and he never settles. He finds the magic in every frame, in every scene, in every musical number.”

But without the right actors to bring that magic to life, the work would be in vain. For the role of the proper, peculiar and enigmatic nanny, the filmmakers had only one person in mind: Emily Blunt.

As a director, Marshall also knows what people need…especially actors. He knows how to bring actors and their performances to life and gives them confidence in themselves, creating an environment in which they are able to do their best work. “Rob has a way of reaching people and bringing out the best in themselves,” explains DeLuca. “He has a rapport with his actors and always knows what’s going to make them flourish.”

Because the story takes place in London during the “Great Slump,” director Rob Marshall wanted the world depicted on screen to reflect the setting and period, or in Powell’s words, look “really wintery and dark and gray and foggy, which is basically London in the winter.” With cinematographer Dion Beebe planning to light the interior sets with mostly warm tones and exterior sets with more cool colors and lots of blues, Powell devised a color palette consisting of dark tones and colors for the bulk of the film. Closer to the end of the story when spring arrives, the color palette grew to include pastels and fresher, floral colors.

That look, which was, in turn, inspired by Mary Shepard’s illustrations from the original PL Travers books, was, in fact, a conservative style for nannies from that time period. With “Mary Poppins Returns,” Powell wanted to design something similar—but more relevant to the later ‘30s setting— and quickly set out to create a more modern look for the eccentric nanny that would still honor the essence of the character from the first film.

“The magic, the optimism, the emotion, the hope and the joy that Mary Poppins brings are the same things we’re looking for in our lives today,” says producer Marc Platt. “We want to be uplifted and transported and entertained. We want to be moved. We want to laugh and we want to cry. And ‘Mary Poppins Returns’ delivers all that…and more.”

Mary Poppins Returns flies into theaters nationwide on December 19. Are you excited for this movie and will you be watching it in theaters? Let us know in the comments below.

Actor Gary Sinise Sends Hundreds of Children of Fallen Military Heroes to Walt Disney World

By

Heather Adamczak

-

December 12, 2018

Actor Gary Sinise Sends Hundreds of Children of Fallen Military Heroes to Walt Disney World

Gary Sinise is taking a total of 1750 people to Walt Disney World this December as part of his “Snowball Express” program through the Gary Sinise Foundation. He chartered flights and with the help of American Airlines and they took flight from LAX. Gary started his foundation as a way to give back to children of the fallen and their surviving parent or guardian. This week they left on a five day adventure to Walt Disney World as a way to enjoy a stress-free environment making lasting memories with new friends.

This is the official statement from the Gary Sinise Foundation website:

Each December, we host a five-day experience for 1,750+ children of the fallen and their surviving parent or guardian. As a therapeutic retreat with a blend of fun and inspiring programs, these families can lean on their peers for support. And this year we’re bringing Snowball Express to Walt Disney World® Resort! We’re also hosting community-driven events for these families all year long. From baseball games, to arts & educational opportunities, to camping trips, these families can deepen friendships right in their hometowns. These events are essential for children and surviving spouses to build bonds with the only people who can truly understand their loss: each other. For nearly forty years, Gary Sinise has stood as an advocate of America’s service members. It began in the early 80’s with his support of Vietnam Veterans groups and the creation of Vets Night, a program offering free dinners and performances to veterans at the Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago. His commitment continued into the 90’s working on behalf of the Disabled American Veterans organization which he continues to actively support. Since the attacks of September 11th, 2001, his dedication to our nation’s active duty defenders, veterans and first responders has become a tireless crusade of support, service and gratitude to all those who protect our freedom and serve our country.

Over 1000 Gold Star Children travel w/ surviving parent, 1,750 in all, via @americanair to Disney World today as part of our @GarySiniseFound Snowball Express program. This charter left LAX this morning. I’ll join up in a few days. Have fun kids! We love you! pic.twitter.com/OfMEpVF1er

— Gary Sinise (@GarySinise) December 8, 2018

Photo and Source Gary Sinise Foundation

The Screen Actors Guild Awards Nominations Released For 2019

By

Jessica Jones

-

December 12, 2018

The Screen Actors Guild Awards have released their nominations for 2019!

The Screen Actors Guild Awards have released their nominations for 2019. Often seen as a path leading to the Oscars makes these nominations important. 2019 looks like it might be starting off with a bang for quite a few actors and actresses; but for Disney addicts like us, we are excited for a few of the nominees listed!

Topping the lead for nominations, with two each, are actresses Amy Adams, Emily Blunt, and Emma Stone. Amy Adams gained nominations for her role on HBO’s Sharp Objects and for her supporting role in Vice. Emily Blunt gained nominations for her supporting role in A Quiet Place and for her leading role in Mary Poppins Returns. Lastly for us Disney Addicts, Emma Stone gained nominations for her work on TV show Maniac and her supporting role for The Favourite along with costar Rachel Weisz. Disney fans must be beyond excited over these nominations!

Let’s take a look at the other nominees, which were presented by Crazy Rich Asians and Ocean’s 8 star Awkwafina and Orange is the New Black actress Laverne Cox:

Outstanding performance by a cast in a motion picture

A Star is Born
Black Panther
Crazy Rich Asians
BlacKkKlansman
Bohemian Rhapsody

Outstanding performance by an actor in a leading role

Christian Bale, Vice
Bradley Cooper, A Star is Born
Rami Malek, Bohemian Rhapsody
Viggo Mortensen, Green Book
John David Washington, BlackKklansman

Outstanding performance by an actress in a supporting role

Amy Adams, Vice
Emma Stone, The Favourite
Rachel Weisz, The Favourite
Emily Blunt, A Quiet Place
Margot Robbie, Mary Queen of Scots

Outstanding performance by an ensemble in a drama series

The Americans
Better Call Saul
The Handmaid’s Tale
Ozark
This Is Us

Outstanding performance by a female actor in a drama series
Julia Garner, Ozark
Laura Linney, Ozark
Elisabeth Moss, The Handmaid’s Tale
Sandra Oh, Killing Eve
Robin Wright, House of Cards

Outstanding performance by a male actor in a drama series
Jason Bateman, Ozark
Sterling K. Brown, This Is Us
Joseph Fiennes, The Handmaid’s Tale
John Krasinsky, Jack Ryan
Bob Odenkirk, Better Call Saul

Outstanding performance by an ensemble in a comedy series

Barry
Atlanta
Glow
The Kominsky Method
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

Outstanding performance by a female actor in a comedy series or movie

Allison Brie, GLOW
Rachel Brosnahan, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
Alex Bornstien, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
Jane Fonda, Grace and Frankie
Lily Tomlin, Grace and Frankie

Outstanding Performance by a male actor in a comedy series

Alan Arkin, The Kominsky Method
Michael Douglas, The Kominsky Method
Bill Hader, Barry
Tony Shalhoub, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
Henry Winkler, Barry

Outstanding performance by a female actor in a miniseries or movie

Amy Adams, Sharp Objects
Patricia Arquette, Escape at Dannemora
Patricia Clarkson, Sharp Objects
Penelope Cruz, The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story
Emma Stone, Maniac

Outstanding performance by a male actor in a miniseries or movie

Antonio Banderas, Genius: Picasso
Darren Criss, The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story
Hugh Grant, A Very English Scandal
Anthony Hopkins, King Leer
Bill Pulman, The Sinner

Viewers will be able to see the 25^th annual Screen Actors Guild Awards live on Sunday, January 27, 2019 at 8pm EST on TNT and TBS. No word yet on if this year’s ceremony will feature a host rather than their traditional presenters who also act as an emcee.

Soure: People Magazine

Photo Credit: Screen Actors Guild

Ready to experience the Disney magic yourself? Well, pack your bags and get ready! As an agent that specializes in Disney Destinations, and the official travel partner for Chip and Co, I can help you begin your journey. Just click the Key to the World Travel Picture, email me at [email protected], on facebook or fill out the form below for a free no-obligation quote.

Pedro Pascal Revealed as the Deadly Gunfighter of The Mandalorian

By

Chip

-

December 12, 2018

All-Star Cast to Appear in Upcoming Disney+ Star Wars Live-Action Series

Lucasfilm is pleased to announce the cast of the first-ever Star Wars live-action series –The Mandalorian.

Pedro Pascal (Narcos) has been cast in the title role as a lone Mandalorian gunfighter in the outer reaches of the galaxy. He is joined by Gina Carano (Deadpool), Giancarlo Esposito (Breaking Bad), Emily Swallow (Supernatural), Carl Weathers (Predator), Omid Abtahi (American Gods), Werner Herzog (Grizzly Man) and Nick Nolte (Affliction).

“We’re having a great time working with this incredibly talented group and excited for everyone to see what we’re up to,” says Executive Producer Jon Favreau.

Currently, in production, The Mandalorian is written and executive produced by Jon Favreau, with Dave Filoni(Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Star Wars Rebels) directing the first episode and serving as executive producer alongside Kathleen Kennedy and Colin Wilson. Additional episodic directors include Deborah Chow (Jessica Jones), Rick Famuyiwa (Dope), Bryce Dallas Howard (Solemates), and Taika Waititi (Thor: Ragnarok).

The highly anticipated series will be exclusive to Disney+, The Walt Disney Company’s upcoming direct-to-consumer streaming service, which is set to launch in the U.S. in late 2019.

Stay tuned to StarWars.com for updates.