Disney Vacation Club Member only dessert party with Don ‘Ducky’ Williams

February 3, 2017

Disney will be hosting a one day special event for Disney Vacation Club Members on February 18th at the Members Lounge in Epcot.

Presented after the lounge has concluded its regular operating day, this exclusive dessert party with Disney artist Don “Ducky” Williams is scheduled to take place on Feb. 18 from 7:45-8:45 p.m.

The one-time-only event is priced at $30 a person, tax included, (paid theme park admission also required) and includes an artful assortment of sweet treats (from Key Lime Tarts to a decadent “Festival of the Arts Inspired Triple Chocolate Mousse with Chocolate Crunch”), along with punch, coffee, tea and soft drinks (the latter being the hundreds of choices available through the lounge’s Coca-Cola Freestyle machines).

The evening’s biggest treat, however, will be time spent with Ducky, whose famed character illustrations grace everything from the pages of theme park maps to the walls of theme park restaurants, not to mention limited-edition lithographs proudly displayed in the homes of many Disney Vacation Club Members.

Ducky will share stories as he draws some of his favorite characters live, giving this small audience (the event can accommodate as many as 50 attendees) extraordinary access to this immeasurably talented artist.

This event is open to Members and all guests sharing the Members’ Walt Disney World Resort accommodations. Members who aren’t staying at a Walt Disney World Resort also are welcome to attend with as many as five guests each.

Click here for more details and to reserve your spot at what promises to be a memorable event.

All New Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour at Magic Kingdom Park

Chip

February 3, 2017

Disney has just announced an all new four hour tour designed to provide you with maximum fun while enjoying the quintessential Magic Kingdom Park experiences and attractions–the Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour!

The tour is led by Disney VIP Tour Guides, who make navigating the park a breeze by providing you with the highest level of Disney’s world-renowned guest service while you enjoy many of the most beloved Magic Kingdom Park attractions carefree.

During the Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour, you’ll be able to experience up to 10 of the most beloved Magic Kingdom Park attractions, including everything from Adventureland must-dos Pirates of the Caribbean and the Jungle Cruise to Fantasyland favorites such as Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, “it’s a small world,” Peter Pan’s Flight, and more attractions throughout the park.

And what visit to Magic Kingdom Park would be complete without saying hello to the mouse that started it all? As part of your tour, you will also get to meet Mickey Mouse! Tell him ‘hi’ for me!

This tour is especially great for kids of all ages since all of the attractions you will visit do not have any height restrictions. If you’re looking for the perfect introduction to the most Magical Place on Earth, or want to experience the classic Magic Kingdom attractions, this is the tour for you.

The Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour ($199 plus tax)* is offered Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays, and is subject to availability. Call 407-560-4033 to book your tour or click here to learn more about this and other offerings from our Enchanting Extras Collection.

*Magic Kingdom Park admission is required and is not included with the cost of the Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour.

New Build-A-Bear Beauty and the Beast Collection has Arrived

Danielle

February 3, 2017

Get ready to celebrate the release of Disney’s live action Beauty and the Beast stuffed toy style! The newest Build-A-Bear Disney collection is here.

So get ready for a “Bear as old as time” with the Build-A-Bear Beauty and the Beast Collection!

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Belle Inspired Bear

In Disney’s live-action movie “Beauty and the Beast,” Belle is a bright, beautiful and independent young woman who is taken prisoner by a beast in his castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior and realize the kind heart and soul of the true Prince within.

Now, you can discover the magic of Belle’s story with your own Belle Inspired Bear! Belle Inspired Bear has yellow and gold sparkly fur with light pink ear and paw pads. Her left foot features her name and a golden rose emblem, while her right foot features the 2017 live-action “Beauty and the Beast” movie logo. Dress Belle Inspired Bear in her signature gold dress and heels to make her complete! To make an enchanting set for movie fans of all ages, pair Belle Inspired Bear with the Beast furry friend and celebrate this timeless classic.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast – Beast

A handsome yet selfish prince transformed into a frightful creature, the Beast must learn to love and earn another’s love in return to break the spell cast upon him in Disney’s live-action movie “Beauty and the Beast.” And now, the Beast is available in furry friend form! With dark brown fur and his signature horns, the Beast also has lovable blue eyes and two special emblems on his paw pads: his iconic enchanted castle on his left foot and the 2017 live-action “Beauty and the Beast” movie logo on his right foot. The Beast can also be dressed in his signature ballroom outfit for a complete look that will delight fans of all ages. Partner Beast with your Belle Inspired Bear to make a timeless set that’s sure to enchant!

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Belle Dress

In Disney’s live-action movie “Beauty and the Beast,” Belle’s ball gown sparkles in the candlelight of the castle ballroom, and now your furry friend can partake in the same splendor with this dress fit for a night of enchantment! Belle’s dress is a beautiful gold color with silver sparkles on the ruffles at the top. The bottom of the dress is also adorned with a silver trim designed for an added shine. The perfect look for your Belle Inspired Bear, this dress is sure to delight.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Ballroom Beast Costume Set 2 pc.

Inspired by the iconic ballroom dance sequence of Disney’s live-action movie, “Beauty and the Beast” fans will be delighted with this ballroom outfit set that’s the perfect size for your furry Beast friend. This dignified look features a royal blue ballroom inspired top with white ruffles and gold trim. The royal blue dress pants complete this memorable look. Pair this outfit with the “Beauty and the Beast” Rose Wrist Accessory to make your furry Beast friend truly enchanting!

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Rose Wrist Accessory

In Disney’s live-action movie “Beauty and the Beast,” the enchanted rose counts down how much time is left before the spell cast upon the Beast and his castle must be broken. Will Belle and the Beast find true love before the last petal falls? This enchanting rose wrist accessory is a must-have for any “Beauty and the Beast” fan and easily attaches to your furry friend’s paw! Whether paired with your Beast furry friend or your Belle Inspired Bear, this beautiful red rose will delight all fans of this timeless tale. This is my favorite accessory for the Build-A-Bear Beauty and the Beast Collection.

You can find all of these items from the Build-A-Bear Beauty and the Beast Collection and more at the Build-A-Bear Store and online!

Disney World Parking Trams to Get Monorail-style Makeovers

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 3, 2017

It is being reported by several sources that the parking trams whisking guests from their cars to the theme parks, will be getting a playful monorail makeover. The trams, like the one you see above, will start making the rounds in a range of colors and with theming that mimics the style of the current Disney monorail trains.

In addition to the paint job, the trams, which were recently custom made for Walt Disney, will also offer guests a quieter ride with a different engine system. Guests to the parks would often complain about the loud engines on the previous versions.

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Image copyright Disney.

Menu Items Announced for 2017 Flower and Garden Festival Food Booths

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 3, 2017

If there’s one thing that has tongues wagging about the 2017 Epcot Flower & Garden Festival which will be held at Walt Disney World from March 1- May 29, 2017, its the 11 food booths that will be offering up special dishes as part of the “Garden Marketplace.”

The booths feature a range of delightful dishes from around the world and also includes alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Similar to the kiosks found at the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, the marketplaces are sure to be a hit, we here at Chip and Co are delighted to share with you a look at some of the menu items on offer.

Jardin de Fiestas- Mexican Pavilion:

Chile Relleno de Picadillo: Battered Poblano Pepper filled with Ground Beef covered with tomato sauce and Garnished with Queso Fresco and Toasted Almonds
Brocheta de Pollo con Salsa Morita: Grilled Chicken with Red and Green Bell Pepper served with Salsa Chile Morita and Garnished with Micro-Cilantro and Edible Flowers
Tres Leches: Vanilla Sponge Cake, Cajeta, Condensed Milk and Evaporated Milk and Garnished with Orange Zest
Hibiscus Margarita
Elderflower Pineapple Margarita
Watermelon White Sangria
Pacifico Draft Beer with Kahlua Floater

Lotus House – China Pavilion:

Spicy Chicken Lettuce Wrap
Beijing-Style Candied Strawberries (Vegetarian)
Vegetable Spring Rolls (Vegetarian)
Oolong Peach Bubble Tea
M.S.G: A cooler of Mango Wine, Strawberry and Ginger Ale
Kung Fu Punch: Vodka, Triple Sec, Mango and Orange Juice
Dragon Pearl: Beer, Honey, Cream and Tapioca Pearls
Plum Wine Cooler

Bauernmarkt: Farmer’s Market– Germany Pavilion:

Potato Pancakes with House-made Apple Sauce (Vegetarian)
Potato Pancake with Caramelized Ham, Onions and Herb Sour Cream
Roasted Bratwurst with Curry Ketchup and Paprika-spiced Chips (Gluten Free)
Warm Cheese Strudel with Mixed Berries
Hugo-Charles De Fere “Organic” Brut with Elderflower and Mint
Paulaner Original Munich Lager
Schöfferhofer Hefeweizen
Köstritzer Schwarzbier Black Lager
Beer Flight

Primavera Kitchen -Italy Pavilion

Antipasto Misto: Cerignola Olives, Sweet Soppressata and Salami, Ovolini, Mozzarella, Sweet Roasted Peppers and Ciabatta Bread
Meatball Parmigiana: Hand-made Beef and Veal Meatballs, Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella, Parmigiana and Fresh Basil
Strawberry Tiramisu: Ladyfingers, Mascarpone Cream and Marinated Strawberries topped with Strawberry Sauce
Bellini Sparkling Wine and Peach purée
Rossini Sparkling Wine and Marinated strawberries
Frozen Italian Margarita with Limoncello and Tequila
Pinot Grigio
Chianti
Prosecco
Corbinello
Moscato
Moretti Lager
Moretti La Rossa

The Smokehouse: Barbecue and Brews – American Adventure

Pulled Pig Slider with Coleslaw and Crispy Onions
Smoked Pork Ribs with Black Bean and Corn Salad (Gluten Free)
Beef Brisket Burnt Ends Hash with White Cheddar Fondue and Pickled Jalapeños
Warm Chocolate Cake with Bourbon-Salted Caramel Sauce and Spiced Pecans (Vegetarian)
Frozen Lemonade with Firefly Blackberry Moonshine
Zen of Zin Old Vine, California
Orange Blossom Pilsner, Orlando, FL
3 Daughters Phantasmas IPA, St. Petersburg, FL
Shipyard Maple Bacon Stout, Clearwater, FL
Beer Flight
Frozen Lemonade (Non-alcoholic)

Hanami- Japan Pavilion

Frushi: Fresh Pineapple, Strawberry and Melon rolled with Raspberry Coconut Rice, sprinkled with Toasted Coconut and Whipped Cream on the side (Vegetarian)
Ahi Tuna Poke Sesame Ginger
Beef Teriyaki Udon: Thin-sliced Beef, Onions and Noodles tossed on the grill with Soy and Ginger
Matcha (Green Tea) Sake Cocktail
Amabuki Kurenai Junmai Sake
Ozeki Shin Junmai Sake
Sapporo Draft Beer
Kirin Draft Beer

Taste of Marrakesh – Morocco Pavilion:

Merguez “Hot Dog” Sausage: Spicy Beef and Lamb with Satueed Onions and Green Peppers
Home-Made Falafel with Pickled Beet and Turnip, Tomato Salad and Tahini Sauce
Baklava (Vegetarian)(pictured)
Desert Rose: Sparkling Wine topped with Pomegranate Liqueur
White Sangria
Guerrouane Red Wine
Casa Beer

Fleur de Lys – France Pavilion:

Tarte à l’Onion Alsacienne: Alsatian Onion Tart with Sautéed Onions, Fresh Thyme and Rosemary on a Flaky Puff Pastry Crust (V)
Poulet aux Écrevisses, Riz Pilaf: Baked Chicken with Crawfish served with Rice Pilaf
Macaron Chocolat Framboise: Large Raspberry Macaron with Chocolate Fudge and Raspberry Jam (GF)
La Vie en Rose Frozen Slush: Grey Goose Vodka Orange, St. Germain Liquor, White and Red Cranberry Juice
Kir Pomegranate, Sparkling Wine, Pama Pomegranate Liquor
Brut de Pêche, Natural Peach Sparkling Wine
Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blend, C’est La Vie
Kronenbourg Blanc 1664: Fruity White Beer with Citrus Notes

Pineapple Promenade – World Showcase Promenade:

Spicy Hot Dog with Pineapple Chutney and Plantain Chips
Pineapple Soft-Serve (Vegetarian)
Pineapple Soft-Serve with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum
Sparkling Pineapple Wine, Florida Orange Groves Winery, St. Petersburg, FL
Pineapple Mana, Maui Brewing Company, Hawaii
Frozen Desert Violet Lemonade (Non-alcoholic)

Florida Fresh – World Showcase Promenade:

Carne Asada with Black Bean Cake and Cilantro Lime Sour Cream
Shrimp and Stone-ground Grits with Andouille Sausage, Sweet Corn , Tomatoes and Cilantro (Gluten Free)
Florida Larder Board: Orlando-made Ricotta Cheese, Cahaba Farms Micro Onions, Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Balsamic, Country Pâté and House-made Pickles
Key Lime Tart with Toasted Meringue
Watermelon Cucumber Slush with Tamiami Florida Gin
Watermelon Cucumber Slush (Non-alcoholic)
Fresh-Squeezed Watermelon Juice (Non-alcoholic)
Key Lime Sparkling Wine, Florida Orange Groves Winery, St Petersburg, FL
Quat Seasonal Fruit Ale, Tampa Bay Brewing Company, Tampa, FL
Mirth and Merriment Golden Ale, Barley Mow Brewing Company, Largo FL
Feast of Flowers Farmhouse Ale, Florida Beer Company, Cape Canaveral, FL
Beer Flight

Urban Farm Eats – Near Canadian Pavilion

Watermelon Salad with Pickled Onions, B&W Gourmet Farms Baby Arugula, Feta and Balsamic Reduction (Gluten Free) (Vegetarian)
Seared Pork Tenderloin with Mushroom Ragoût, Spring Vegetables and Fingerling Potatoes
Crabless Cake with Crispy Vegetable Slaw, Lemon Vinaigrette and Old Bay Remoulade (Vegetarian)
Avivé Natural Peach Sparkling Wine, France
King Estate Acrobat Pinot Noir, Oregon
Wildflower Pale Ale, Forbidden Root Brewery, Chicago, IL
Urban Mary

The Cider House:

Pear Cider-brined Shredded Corned Beef with Braised Cabbage and Branston Dressing with Pears
House-made Potato and Cheddar Cheese Biscuit with Smoked Salmon Tartare
Freshly Baked Lemon Scone with Crème Fraîche and Mixed Berries (Vegetarian) (Gluten Free)
McKenzie’s Black Cherry Hard Cider, West Seneca, NY
Caribe Blood Orange Tropical Hard Cider, Florida Beer Company, Cape Canaveral, FL
Ciderboys Strawberry Magic Hard Strawberry Cider, Wisconsin
Martinelli’s Sparkling Cider, California (Non-alcoholic)

La Isla Fresca:

Jamaican-braised Beef with Pigeon Pea Rice and Micro Cilantro
Sugar Cane Shrimp Skewer with Steamed Rice and Coconut Lime Sauce
Caribbean Conch Salad with Avocado, Mango and Onions
FlanCocho: Vanilla Caramel Custard with Chocolate Coffee Cake (Vegetarian)
Red Stripe Jamaican Style Lager
Frozen Simply Tropical™ Juice Drink with Cruzan Mango Rum
Frozen Simply Tropical Juice Drink (Non-alcoholic)

The Berry Basket – New for 2017!

Lamb chop with Quinoa Salad and Blackberry Gastrique
Field Greens with fresh Strawberries, Blue Cheese, Strawberry Vinaigrette and Spice Pecans (Vegetarian)
Warm Wild Berry Buckle with Pepperberry Sorbet/Ice Cream (Vegetarian)
Founders Raubeaus Pure Raspberry Ale
Island Grove Blueberry Moscato
Twinings Berry Cocktail

Northern Bloom – New for 2017!

Seared Scallops with French Green Beans, Butter Potatoes, Brown Butter Vinaigrette and Apple wood Smoked Bacon (Gluten Free)
Beef Tenderloin Tips, Mushroom Bordelaise Sauce, Whipped Potatoes with Garden Vegetables
Naomi Bar Trifle
Maple Shake with Crown Royal
Maple Shake (Non-alcoholic)
Unibroue Maudite
Unibroue a Tout Le Monde
Unibroue Ephermere

For a rundown of other offerings at this year’s Flower and Garden Festival please check out this article.

Disney also released information this week on the Garden Rocks concert series that will take place during the festival. For further information on the line-up give this article a read.

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Muppet Vision Balloon has been removed

Chip

February 2, 2017

According to our friends at BlogMickey Disney has finally removed the Muppet Balloon from to top of the Muppet Vision 3D Ride in Hollywood Studios. We reported last month that this was going to happen and now it looks like Disney has finally followed through. 🙁

Many sites believe that the balloon was just too tall and would tower over the Star Wars Land attractions. I for one think Gonzo had something to do with it. 😉

There are no plans to remove Muppet Vision 3D from the Muppet Courtyard so don’t worry.

Be sure to check out our complete list of closures and refurbishments from Walt Disney World for February.

Photo Credit Blog Mickey

Captain’s Grille Restaurant in Disney’s Yacht Club Resort closing for long refurbishment

Chip

February 2, 2017

The Captain’s Grille Restaurant in Disney’s Yacht Club Resort will be closing for long refurbishment from May till later this fall.

During the long refurbishment Disney will relocate the restaurant to Ariel’s that is inside the Beach Club Resort.

Ariel’s is just next door to Cape May Cafe and is mainly used for weddings and private events.

No other details have been released.

For a complete list of February Closures and Refurbs just check out this article.

D23 goes behind the scenes of Disney’s Live Action Beauty and the Beast

Chip

February 2, 2017

Transforming one of the most beloved animated films of all time into a live-action feature, complete with elaborate sets, extravagant costumes, vibrant musical numbers, and dazzling special effects, is no easy task. But that’s exactly what director Bill Condon has done with Beauty and the Beast, which arrives in theaters March 17. “When a musical works and you feel that kind of thrill of taking off, I think it’s like nothing else,” says Condon who, along with stars Emma Watson (Belle) and Josh Gad (LeFou), reveals to Disney twenty-three the unique challenges they faced and the heartfelt moments they experienced when creating this sumptuous new film.

The spring issue, exclusively for Gold Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, also features a look behind the scenes with Chris Pratt and Kurt Russell at the making of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, as well as an interview with Walt Disney Imagineer Joe Rohde, who describes in detail the thrills and excitement that await guests on Guardians of the Galaxy—Mission: BREAKOUT!—coming to Disney California Adventure later this year.

Plus, actors Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi talk exclusively with Disney twenty-three about Tangled: The Series, and the hair-raising good time they’ve had stepping back into the roles of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider (now known as Eugene). Disney twenty-three looks at five incredible decades of Pirates of the Caribbean, and producer Jerry Bruckheimer offers readers a sneak peek at May’s Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales. And the Mouseketeers from The New Mickey Mouse Club come together 40 years later to look back on their fun and funkadelic ’70s-era show.

Also included in the spring issue of Disney twenty-three:

A celebration of the Main Street Electrical Parade’s 45th anniversary, as it returns to its original home at Disneyland Park
The wonder and beauty of Disneynature’s newest film, Born in China
A peek at what’s to come during the 25th anniversary of Disneyland Paris
Eleven cool experiences you may not have known about at Walt Disney World Resort
A look inside the newly renovated Walt Disney Animation Studios headquarters
Regular features including A Walk with Walt, D Society, and Ask Dave

And readers will get a look at the 2017 D23 Gold Member Gift, “Walt Disney’s Nine Old Men.” The gift, sent to D23 Gold Members who join or renew for 2017, includes 23 meticulously reproduced items—including beautiful artwork—that represent the work and legacy of the nine animators who created some of Disney’s most enduring characters. More on the gift is available at D23.com/NineOldMen.

Disney twenty-three, which is delivered directly to fans’ doorsteps, is offered exclusively to D23 Gold and Gold Family Members as a benefit of their membership. The latest issue will begin arriving in mid-February.

Recall on Disney’s Mickey Mouse nightlight due to fire hazard

Chip

February 2, 2017

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission is recalling Disney’s Happy Holidays Mickey Mouse Nightlight which was sold exclusively at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and on the Disney Store.

Liquid from the nightlight can leak onto electrical outlets and create a potential fire hazard.

Anyone who purchased the Mickey Mouse Nightlight can call Walt Disney Parks and Resorts US, Inc. toll-free at 844-722-1444 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday

“Guests should immediately remove the nightlight from socket and return it for a $25 refund,” the company said on the Disney Store website.

Two incidents have been reported including an electrical fire.

UPC code: 400009489637 / Model number: YF E243438

‘Seven Seas Lagoon’ Themed Cocktail Now Appearing At The Wave Bar

Lisette R

February 2, 2017

On a recent visit to The Wave Bar, located in the Contemporary Resort overlooking the Seven Seas Lagoon, we happened upon a newly introduced adult beverage. The ‘Seven Seas Lagoon’ is a beautifully themed cocktail now appearing at The Wave Bar and we couldn’t be happier about this discovery. Here is our review of what this new drink has to offer.

When we entered The Wave Bar we found a seat and began to peruse the menu. We were unsure of what we would like so we asked our Bartender if she had any suggestions. She then told us about a newly introduced sharable cocktail called ‘Seven Seas Lagoon.’ We decided to give it a try.

The first thing we noticed when our drink arrived was how pretty it is; kind of like a glowing blue lagoon. The ‘Seven Seas Lagoon’ is served with two Mickey straws, each topped with a Gummy Ring, reminiscent of a Life Preserver. We found this to be a really nice touch as the Gummy Rings tied together the theme in a fun way. We expected the drink to be quite sweet. While it was sweet, it was not overly sweet. We greatly enjoyed the flavor combinations that created the theme.

Here is the ingredients list:

Skyy Vodka (If you drink more than one of these you will find yourself looking at the Sky.)
Parrot Bay Coconut Rum (Parrot & Bay)
Soda Water (Because no Lagoon is complete without Water!)
Pineapple Juice (Think Tropical Fruit)
Lime Juice (What is a Cocktail without a bit of Lime Juice after all?)
Agave (Native Plant of Tropical America)
Swedish Fish (Yes Fish!)
Strawberry Green Apple Boba (Bubbles)
Peach Gummy Rings (Life Preservers)
2 Glow Cubes (Because water is blue of course)
Mickey Straws (After all we are at Walt Disney World!)

The ‘Seven Seas Lagoon’ is a 24 ounce sharable drink that can be found only at the The Contemporary Resort in The Wave Bar, and the Top of the World Lounge in Bay Lake Tower. If you are not a sharing kind of person, you can order one just for yourself. However, there is a 2 drink maximum per person and the ‘Seven Seas Lagoon’ contains the alcohol of two drinks. Therefore, if you order this drink for yourself, it is the only drink you will be allowed to purchase. We agreed that for us, it had to be a shareable beverage because it is very large and neither one of us wanted to find ourselves waking up Lagoon-side the next morning!

We love the theming of this new cocktail. We found a tie-in, and a bit of humor, in each of the ingredients as seen above. The Swedish Fish and Strawberry Green Apple Boba sink to the bottom of the lagoon so you may want to ask for a spoon at the end. ‘Seven Seas Lagoon’ is the best drink we have come across at the Walt Disney World Resort. Be aware that this adult beverage is not listed on the menu. You either have to know about it, or happen upon it by asking the right question.

Looking for something outside the norm of what you see at most Walt Disney World restaurants? The ‘Seven Seas Lagoon’ Themed Cocktail is a rare find and worth every penny of its $22 price tag.

What do you think of the ‘Seven Seas Lagoon’ Cocktail? Please leave your comments in the box below.

New Animal Experience at Animal Kingdom

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 2, 2017

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We mentioned a while back that there were some new interactive animal experiences that were being tested at Animal Kingdom, but we hear now from Orlando Theme Park News that Cast Members have been invited to a special sneak preview of the new bird demonstration/show that’s possibly set to debut later this month. The Cast Members will be viewing the show very shortly, and we hope that means that the new animal experiences will officially begin soon at the park.

We’re not sure exactly what the new animal experiences will officially be, but obviously we see there will be some sort of bird show involved. We will keep you posted as we learn more about the new experience coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

If you would like to visit a Disney destination, but are unsure of where to begin, contact me today to take advantage of my FREE vacation planning services! I specialize in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani resort in Hawaii, as well as Adventures by Disney. Email me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can follow along on Facebook here.

Animators Reach Settlement In Wage Fixing Suit

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

February 2, 2017

Animators reached a $100 million settlement with the Walt Disney Company, Pixar, and Lucasfilm in a class action lawsuit claiming that the defendants violated antitrust laws by conspiring to set animation wages via non-poaching agreements.

Part of the settlement are also Two Pic MC, formerly known as ImageMovers. The settlement was disclosed in a court filing on Tuesday.

Disney and its companies were the last remaining defendants in the litigation. Earlier this month, a federal judge gave preliminary approval to a $50 million settlement with DreamWorks Animation, following previous settlements of $13 million with Sony Imageworks and $5.95 million with Blue Sky. All of the sums will be put in a settlement fund.

The lawsuit was filed in 2014 by Robert Nitsch, a former DreamWorks Animation senior character effects artist; David Wentworth, a former ImageMovers Digital production engineer; and Georgia Cano, a digital artist who held jobs at Rhythm & Hues, Walt Disney Feature Animation, and ImageMovers Digital. The legal filing says that each of the plaintiffs plan to seek service awards that would amount to $100,000 for the entire litigation.

The workers contend that the roots of the anti-poaching agreements go back to the mid-1980s, when George Lucas and Ed Catmull, the president of Steve Jobs’ newly formed company Pixar, agreed to not raid each other’s employees.

Other companies then joined the conspiracy, the suit contended, with agreements on such things as cold calling and notifying each other when making an offer to an employee of another company. In addition, the lawsuit claimed that the company making such an offer would not increase the compensation offered to the prospective employee in its offer if the company currently employing the employee made a counteroffer.

The class of employees include animation and visual effects employees at Pixar between 2004 – 2010; Lucasfilm between 2004 and 2010, DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. from 2004 to 2010, the Walt Disney Company from 2004 to 2010, Sony Pictures Animation Inc. and Sony Pictures Imageworks Inc. from 2004 to 2010, Blue Sky Studios, Inc. from 2005 to 2010 and Two Pic MC, formerly ImageMovers Digital, from 2007 to 2010.

The litigation has its origins in 2010 Department of Justice antitrust complaints against Adobe, Apple, Google, Intel, Intuit, Pixar and Lucasfilm, in which the companies agreed to refrain from wage-fixing practices for a period of five years.

Lucasfilm and Pixar later settled civil litigation in 2013 after a group of Silicon Valley workers named the companies in wage fixing lawsuits. Other companies also settled, including Adobe, Apple, Google, and Intel, which agreed to pay $415 million. That settlement was approved in 2015.

A hearing on the Disney settlement is scheduled for March 9 in U.S. District Court in San Jose.

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