ESPN Announces Names New President, Co-Chair Disney Media Networks

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March 10, 2018

As we reported towards the end of last year, the President of ESPN and Co-Chair of Disney Media Networks, John Skipper, stepped down. Skipper cited substance addiction issues as the reason for leaving his position.

As of this week, James Pitaro was named at the new President of ESPN and Co-Chair of Disney Media Networks. Piatro was previously the Chairman of Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media. He was in that position since 2016. Pitaro will directly report to Bob Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company

“Jimmy is a talented and dedicated leader with the right strategic vision, relentless drive and passion for sports required to lead the stellar ESPN team at this incredibly dynamic time,” Mr. Iger said. “Jimmy forged his career at the intersection of technology, sports and media, and his vast experience and keen perspective will be invaluable in taking ESPN into the future. I also want to extend my utmost thanks to George Bodenheimer for serving as Acting Chair of ESPN these past few months; he is a true industry pioneer and helped make ESPN the undisputed leader in sports.” Mr. Bodenheimer will stay on through the end of the year as a consultant.

“As a passionate and lifelong sports fan, I am honored to be joining the ESPN team during such a pivotal time in its storied history,” Mr. Pitaro said. “The appetite for quality sports content across platforms has never been greater, and I am looking forward to working with the talented ESPN team as we continue to redefine the future fan experience.” Mr. Pitaro’s appointment is effective immediately, and new leadership for Disney’s consumer products and interactive businesses will be named at a later date.

Mr. Pitaro’s appointment comes at a time of great opportunity for ESPN, as it readies the launch of its new direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service. ESPN+ will offer a dynamic lineup of thousands of live sporting events, original content and an unmatched library of award-winning on-demand programming. The service will be integrated into a completely reimagined ESPN App that will serve as the all-in-one, personalized digital destination for all that ESPN offers, including scores, news, highlights and authenticated live streaming of ESPN’s eight U.S. networks.

Creating transformative entertainment experiences through digital technology has been a hallmark of Mr. Pitaro’s career, from building Yahoo Sports into an industry-leading online service to leading Disney’s creation of innovative interactive products and services. At Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media, Mr. Pitaro has overseen the world’s largest licensing business across toys, apparel and home goods; the world’s largest children’s publisher; the creation of branded digital and physical products, including a robust digital game slate; Disney store locations around the world; the recently launched shopDisney e-commerce platform; and the Disney Digital Network of social and digital channels that reach one of out of every three U.S. social media accounts.

Mr. Pitaro previously served as president, Disney Interactive. Prior to his roles at Disney he served as vice president and head of Yahoo Media, where he set strategy and developed and executed growth-driving initiatives for Yahoo’s media properties, including Yahoo Sports and Yahoo Music. At Yahoo Sports, he developed and maintained strong relationships in the sports industry across the leagues and agencies. Earlier in his career, Mr. Pitaro was vice president of business affairs for LAUNCH Media, Inc. and practiced law at several New York firms.

Mr. Pitaro holds a Bachelor of Science in economics from Cornell University and a Juris Doctor from St. John’s Law School.

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Source/Image Credit: Disney

New Coffee art debuts at Joffrey’s Coffee Kiosk in Disney Springs

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Chip

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March 10, 2018

All new Donald and Goofy coffee art is debuting today at the Joffrey’s Coffee Kiosk in Disney Springs! You might remember when Mickey & Minnie debuted a few months ago and the internet went crazy!

Gwarsh—we love these new latte art designs at @JoffreysCoffee! Ask your barista how to get Goofy and Donald Duck on top of your next cup of magic. ✨☕️ Feeling lucky? St. Patrick's Day latte art is also available now through March 17. ☘️ pic.twitter.com/L6Vu78PTp1

— Disney Springs (@DisneySprings) March 10, 2018

If you are feeling lucky, you can also get a special St Patrick’s Day special 4 leaf clover decoration on your latte!

How very cool!

Don’t forget if you are in Epcot for the Flower & Garden Festival be sure to drop by the Joffrey’s Kiosks and try out the 4 specialty drinks just for the festival!

Photo Credit Disney Springs

Disney Princess Havaianas Flip Flops Will Have you Flipping Your Fins

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Danielle

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March 10, 2018

Princess Havaianas Flip Flops

I love flip flops and sandals, they are truly a go to shoe for a Florida gal like myself. So of course I’m excited about the adorable new Disney Princess Havaianas flip flops collection! Not only are they super cute, but they are also very comfortable and durable too.

To top it off, these beautiful new flips are part of the Buy One, Get One 50% Off sale on shopDisney this weekend! You can get the newest Havaianas, as well as lots of other fresh picks on the shopDisney website using the sitewide code: BOGO50, now through tomorrow March 11th.

There are four different Disney Princess designs currently available. You can find all of them at Disney Springs, and 3 of the 4 designs on shopDisney. Ariel, Belle, and Cinderella are available online, while Aurora is not currently for sale online right now. These gorgeous flip flops feature the Disney Princesses on one shoe, and an inspiring quote on the other. The textured sole has a complimenting color and keeps feet cool and comfortable no matter where your fairy tale takes you.

Belle Flip Flops for Women by Havaianas

The beloved Belle graces the footbed of these flip flops by Havaianas featuring the quote “Not Just a Pretty Face”. The sole is infused with her signature yellow hue, just like her iconic ballgown.

Ariel Flip Flops for Women by Havaianas

If you want a change from swimmin’ and are ready to stand on land, then slip into these Ariel flip flops featuring the quote “Curiosity Takes You Places”. Purple hues and a dinglehopper silhouette complete these cute kicks.

Cinderella Flip Flops for Women by Havaianas

Cinderella is absolutely charmingon this pair of flip flops by Havaianas. This pair of flip flops has a quote I’m sure a lot of us moms can relate to, “I Just Asked For a Night Off”.

The aurora flip flops are a beautiful shade of pink, and say “Not a Prince? Wake Me Up Later.” That’s kind of how I feel at 6 am on Monday mornings, haha!

Which pair of the new Princess Havaianas Flip Flops has you flipping your fins?

Sneak Peek at Limited-Time Eats And Treats Coming To Pixar Fest At Disneyland

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 9, 2018

Pixar Fest Food

Pixar Fest, the biggest Pixar celebration ever to come to Disney Parks, brings guests together to celebrate friendship and beyond from April 13 through Sept. 3, 2018, at the Disneyland Resort. Your taste buds will be taken to infinity and beyond with some creatively themed food and beverage and exclusive event merchandise. Make sure to partake in this special event with your own pals so that you can ensure that not a single delicious dish goes untasted!

Here is a sneak peek at the limited-time foods and beverages that are inspired by some of our favorite Pixar stories:

Toy Story

Sneak Peek at Limited-Time Eats And Treats Coming To Pixar Fest At Disneyland

Boot Beer Root Beer Float served in a Souvenir Woody’s Boot—Golden Horseshoe, Disneyland park (pictured above left)

Sneak Peek at Limited-Time Eats And Treats Coming To Pixar Fest At Disneyland

Jessie’s Berry Jubilee Funnel Cake (House-made funnel cake topped with blueberries, strawberries, chocolate cookie crumbles, crème anglaise, white chocolate, and gold-dusted whipped cream)—Golden Horseshoe, Disneyland park (pictured above right)

Sneak Peek at Limited-Time Eats And Treats Coming To Pixar Fest At Disneyland

Lots-o’-Straw-“Bear”-y Funnel Cake (Strawberry-cherry topping, strawberry butter, and streusel, with spiced syrup drizzle)—Hungry Bear Restaurant, Disneyland park
Lots-o’-Straw-“Bear”-y Churro—Tomorrowland, Disneyland park

Up

Fried-ricksen Bologna Sandwich—Carnation Café, Disneyland park
Fredrickson TV Diner—Carnation Café, Disneyland park
Up Merit Badge Éclair—Jolly Holiday Bakery Café, Disneyland park
Up-Tart: Nutella Pop Tart Chocolate Fredrickson House & Balloons—Capuccino Cart, Disneyland park

Coco

Sneak Peek at Limited-Time Eats And Treats Coming To Pixar Fest At Disneyland

Coco Churro (Chocolate and vanilla bean dust and salted cinnamon sugar served with a spiced Mexican chocolate dipping sauce)—Frontierland, Disneyland park

Monsters, Inc.

Mike Wazowski Bread—Pacific Wharf Café, Disney California Adventure park
Sully Premium Popcorn Bucket—All Disneyland Resort popcorn carts
Mike Wazowski Sipper—Disney California Adventure park quick-service restaurants

Sneak Peek at Limited-Time Eats And Treats Coming To Pixar Fest At Disneyland

You can also look forward to new, limited-time Pixar Fest merchandise. Items will include logo tees for adults and kids featuring some of your favorite Pixar pals Woody, Buzz, Mike, and Sulley. The event logo will also be proudly displayed on a special Pixar Fest leather tote from Loungefly and a limited release pin. I’m personally excited for the adorable tumbler featuring an illuminated claw reaching down toward an excited alien from “Toy Story.”

Source Credit: Disney Parks Blog and D23

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Contact me today to start planning your magical Disney vacation. As an agent with MickeyTravels (designated with Platinum Earmarked status by Disney), my goal is to help you plan the Magic your way. I create customized itineraries, book advanced dining and FastPass+ reservations, monitor for discounts for your vacation, and much much more! And did I mention that my services are FREE? Find me on Facebook or feel free to email me with any Disney vacation questions at [email protected]

If You Thought the Leprechaun Milkshake Looked Yummy, You have to Check Out the Shamrock Sundae!

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 9, 2018

If You Thought the Leprechaun Milkshake Looked Yummy, You have to Check Out the Shamrock Sundae!

The Shamrock Sundae from Vivoli il Gelato in Disney Springs looks delicious!

Celebrate the luck of the Irish with this one-of-a-kind delicacy. This sundae features two scoops of pistachio gelato, mint chocolate chip gelato, chocolate sauce, and topped with whipped cream.

The Shamrock Sundae is the perfect St. Patrick’s Day treat! Also available is the Leprechaun Milkshake!

Click here for your FREE no obligation quote!

Ready to experience Disney for yourself? There are still fantastic 2018 packages available. Click here or send an email for a FREE, no obligation quote with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.

Want more help planning your next Disney vacation? As an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, my goal is to help you plan the Magic your way. I create customized itineraries, book advanced dining and FastPass+ reservations, monitor for discounts for your vacation, and much much more! And did I mention that my services are FREE? Get in touch via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook.

Merchandise at the World Showcase Play an Important Part of Any Guests Visit

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 9, 2018

Merchandise at the World Showcase Play an Important Part of Any Guests Visit

The World Showcase at Epcot have been delighting Guests in the sights, sounds, and tastes of 11 themed pavilions for more than 35 years. Shopping has played an important part of the World Showcase experience since opening in 1982. Jennifer Furbee and Sylvie Brumbaugh, two Disney Parks Merchandise Cast Members who have the fun assignment of selecting merchandise for World Showcase shops, gave Disney Parks Blog a behind-the-scenes look at how they create tangible memories for this immersive shopping destination at Walt Disney World Resort.

Merchandise at the World Showcase Play an Important Part of Any Guests Visit

“There’s always something new to discover,” explained Jennifer, a Disney Parks Merchandise Cast Member, who has supported Mexico, Canada, and The American Adventure pavilions for three years. “For some guests, [World Showcase] may be the only time they visit a particular country. We want them to feel like they are actually visiting the country through the products we offer.”

Developing and selecting new World Showcase merchandise takes several months. During that time, the product developers are researching popular trends, traveling to domestic and international destinations for inspiration, creating product assortments that support stories in each pavilion, and finalizing product samples to ensure they are ready for shops.

Jennifer and Sylvie, another Disney Parks Merchandise Cast Member, include many recognizable products from countries represented in World Showcase to create an authentic shopping experience for guests. A recent example is found in Germany pavilion where traditional German lederhosen and dirndl dresses create an instant Oktoberfest celebration. Other authentic products include color figurines from Mexico pavilion or decorative teapots from United Kingdom pavilion.

Merchandise at the World Showcase Play an Important Part of Any Guests Visit

The team also develops character-themed products with artwork inspired by World Showcase countries. New arrivals in Canada and Norway pavilions include country map collections where Chip and Dale, Goofy, and Mickey Mouse are shown exploring these vast nations.

Merchandise at the World Showcase Play an Important Part of Any Guests Visit

Sylvie, who began her Disney career as a Cultural Representative in the France pavilion during the late 1980s, has supported Germany, Italy, France, United Kingdom and Norway pavilions for seven years. To her, collaboration is key when creating memorable merchandise.

“To bring these product stories to life, we work with tremendous partners including artists at Disney Creative Group, merchandise operations, location planning, merchandise presentation, and Walt Disney Imagineering,” said Sylvie. “We also periodically hold roundtable discussions with Cultural Representatives to get feedback about the merchandise we carry.”

Merchandise at the World Showcase Play an Important Part of Any Guests Visit

Sylvie has a unique perspective about her role with the World Showcase team.

“It’s an incredible feeling developing products for the place where I started my career,” said Sylvie. “I have a wonderful sense of pride with every visit to World Showcase. I’m thankful to play a part in creating lasting memories for guests through merchandise.”

Source: DPB

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Click Here for your FREE no obligation quote!

There are still fantastic 2018 packages available. Send an email for a FREE, no obligation quote with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner!

Are you ready to start planning your magical Disney vacation? As an agent with MickeyTravels, (designated with Platinum Earmarked status by Disney), I’ll be available to help with everything from finding your perfect package to nabbing those hard-to-get dining and Fastpass reservations. Best of all my services are absolutely FREE! Get in touch at 843-288-1130, via email at [email protected] or follow along on Facebook. Or fill out and submit the form below.

There Are So Many PhotoPass Opportunities At the Flower and Garden Festival This Year!

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 9, 2018