Renovations at Caribbean Beach Resort Parking Lots

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August 23, 2016

If you’ll be stay ing at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort in the near future, you’ll want to know that Orlando Theme Park News reports that there will be some parking lot upgrades starting on August 29th.

On Monday, August 29, work will begin on new entrances for the Trinidad South parking lots at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. This particular enhancement aims to improve Guest vehicle access to both parking lots, as it may be slightly more complicated now due to buses blocking the current entrance. New signage will be installed to reflect these changes. This work will have minimal impact on parking availability and is anticipated to be completed by Friday, September 16th.

Did you know you can now book your Disney World or Disneyland Vacation for 2017? If you’re unsure of where to begin planning your Disney Parks vacation, 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. Contact me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can find me on my Facebook page here.

Is Disney Building another DVC Location at Bay Lake Tower?

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 23, 2016

We’ve been hearing rumors for a while now that there may possibly be another Disney Vacation Club location in the works. The thought is that the new location will be another tower built near the Garden Wing, The Convention Center, or north of Bay Lake Tower, where a hotel pad already sits, at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

The new tower is also rumored to be similar, but not the same look/design as Bay Lake Tower. Also it it thought that the pricing structure for the studios and villas will be at the higher point of things, similar to the bungalows at the Polynesian.

Though this seems to be strictly in the design/planning phase, it could be as much as 5 years from reality.

Disney has not made any official announcements but hopefully we can learn more about any upcoming DVC additions soon!

Photo: disneyvacationclub.com

The Jungle Book: Blu-Ray Review

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 23, 2016

I saw the newest version of “The Jungle Book” in the theaters, as many of you probably have, and was totally blown away. It quickly shot to the top of my top 5 for favorite movies for the year and quite possibly of all time. So owning the DVD is not so much a luxury as much as it is an imperative.

If you enjoyed the movie as much as I did, I highly suggest owning the Blu-Ray. Not only do you get to watch this instant classic as often as you want (and with the digital download it comes with.. you don’t even need the DVD player!), the bonus features are absolutely awesome!

Jungle Book Reimagined: Jon Favreau, producer Brigham Taylor and visual effects supervisor Robert Legato talk about the process of taking the 1967 animated classic and the Rudyard Kipling book and making a whole new film. Telling the story in the new digital form, from concept to competition.

Here are some progression pictures from the VFX of the film

I Am Mowgli: A behind the scenes look at finding and casting Neel Sethi.

King Louie’s Temple, Layer by Layer: With an introduction to the orchestra of Richard Sherman this short film shows how the segment of ‘I Wanna Be Like You’ came to be.

The disc set also comes with a regular DVD, for those who don’t have a Blu-Ray. You will miss the great bonus features, but you’ll at least get to watch the movie again. Which is always worth it.

Complimentary Mimosas now Offered at California Grill’s Brunch at the Top

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 23, 2016

California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers a delicious Sunday Brunch at the Top that now includes complimentary Mimosas! Reservations for brunch are only available on Sundays from 10:00am until 1:00pm.

Treat yourself to a unique California Grill culinary experience while overlooking the magnificent Magic Kingdom park. Guests can interact with chefs as they artfully prepare dishes in the open show kitchen during this not-quite-breakfast, not-quite-lunch event.

Sate your taste buds with a menu of charcuterie, sushi, inspired salads and seasonal brunch entrees made from the freshest ingredients—there’s something for even the most discriminating palate. Libations include a Bloody Mary bar, cocktails, craft brews and an extensive list of the finest wines from around the world. Cap off your meal with a decadent dessert of macarons or chocolate truffles—it’s the sweetest ending for a brunch you’ll never forget!

California Grill is a Signature Dining restaurant that requires two table service credits. Reservations can be made online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE.

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Disney Destination vacation. All of my planning services are FREE and can help save you both time and money!

Photo Credit: @WDWToday

Floyd Norman – The Retired Disney Animator Who Kept Showing Up for Work Every Day For 16 Years

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 23, 2016

When the fireworks end, and the kiss goodnight plays I don’t know anyone who wants to leave Disney. Even tired and cranky, I still want to stay. Now what if you’ve worked for Disney as an animator most of your adult life, and you’re asked to retire? That’s the story of 81-year-old Floyd Norman. Instead of begrudgingly leaving after the shops have closed on Main Street, he did what we all wish we could do – he stayed.

Norman has worked on some of Disney’s most iconic films: “Sleeping Beauty”, “Mary Poppins”, “Jungle Book”. He worked directly with Walt himself. Norman also crossed over from Disney animation to Pixar. Imagine his disbelief when HR told him it was time to retire.

He told The New York Post he was “so shocked” when Human Resources told him it was time to retire at 65. However, Norman kept showing up for work. The Post reports he’s been showing up to the animator’s offices for over sixteen years without a paycheck or badge.

As luck would have it, Norman’s 20-years-younger wife Adrienne happens to work at Disney as a storybook artist. Apparently, his wife sneaks him into the Burbank building every single day.

Now, Norman has true dedication because most people have a hard time getting up in the morning for a job they actually have. Because Norman has been incredibly devoted to his work, he’s been the subject of a documentary, Floyd Norman: An Animated Life.

It’s about his life as the man who never stopped drawing — and showing up for work. And, btw, when Norman wasn’t sneaking into the Burbank offices, he was writing a book about Walt Disney.

Our friend Krista is having a special event at AMC Disney Springs 24 for a screening and Q&A time with Floyd and the film producer, Micael Fiore!

Spooktacular New The Nightmare Before Christmas Merchandise at Disney Parks

By

Danielle

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August 23, 2016

The hauntingly fun Mickey’s not So Scary Halloween Party at WDW and Mickey’s Halloween Party at DL are on the horizon. That means lots of spooky new merchandise has begun to materialize. Fans of the pop culture obsession The Nightmare Before Christmas will be pleased to find lots of new merchandise.

First up is something that is always a personal favorite of mine, trading pins! I’m a pin trading addict for sure, so having a new line of pins themed in The Nightmare Before Christmas Merchandise is wonderful. There will be new open edition pins and accessories. There will also be an Ear Hat Ornament Mystery pin set.

There’s lots of ladies apparel available, and I’m loving all the purple accents for it. I’m a little bummed to see it’s mostly colder weather attire. These is a fun white tank top with Jack and Sally, if you’re looking for something to wear this fall to the Parks though. The hats and scarves will be great for staying spooky in the winter!

The guys are not forgotten either! There’s a great assortment of Men’s hoodies and shirts including a nice stylized black tee. I love that there is some cute little boys Nightmare Before Christmas Merchandise! The striped shirt with Jack Skellington bow tie, and suspender graphics is just too adorable!

Many of these items are starting to become available at the parks now, with the rest to follow. I’m excited to see all of the fun new The Nightmare Before Christmas Merchandise in person! I’ll have to get myself some pins, and that too cute stripe shirt for my little guy. What are you most excited for?

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Disney World Souvenir Mug with handles returning

By

Chip

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August 22, 2016

You might remember when we reported last month that Disney removed the handles from their Walt Disney World Resort Souvenir Mugs. Guest were outraged as many families used those handles to carry multiple drinks back to the room at the end of the day.

We are receiving word that due to public outcry the handled mugs will be making a coming back!

There is no official word when these mugs will be coming back, just that they will be returning soon.

Some resorts at Walt Disney World never even sold out of their stock of handled mugs so you might see both mugs available till the handle-less mugs sell out.

If it were me I would offer both mugs to fans as I would love one without a handle for in my car and then a handled mug for when we are at the parks, but that is just me…

So which mug design do you like better? Let us know in the comment box below.

Add a Little Sparkle with Disney Glitter iPhone Cases

By

Danielle

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August 22, 2016

Hooray, it’s the first day of Spring, and I’m ready to sparkle with some glittery Disney bling! These super adorable Disney Glitter iPhone Cases from TheLavenderBowtique on Etsy have the perfect touch of shimmer with beautifully bright colors for Spring.

These sparkly cases come in a variety of princess choices. There is also a fun Tsum Tsum case! The princesses available are Rapunzel, Snow White, Ariel and Cinderella. The cases are reminiscent of the the glitter cups you used to have when you were a kid. These gorgeous disney glitter cases are really cool, and probably grab the attention of other Disney lovers! I know I would also have a ton of fun just tipping my phone back and forth watching the glitter, like the glitter batons I used to love so much as a little girl!

Check them out below:

If glitter isn’t your thing, you can also check out their water color case designs:

Which sparkling Disney Glitter iPhone Cases is your favorite? Or do you prefer the non glitter ones, with the water color design? The glitter ones are gorgeous, but the other ones seem fun also!

New Sweet Treat Filled Delicious Disney Cookbook

By

Danielle

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August 22, 2016

One thing I am absolute fanatic for is, Disney Cookbooks! So when I saw today on the that a new dessert inspired cookbook was coming soon, I was delighted. The Delicious Disney: Sweet Treats Cookbook will feature 40 delectable recipes from the Disney Chefs of the Disney Parks, Resorts and Cruises.

This book will include irresistible sweets from many well known places including the madeleines from Chefs de France in Epcot, the Warm Apple Butter Cake from Steakhouse 55 at the Disneyland hotel and the Mom’s Favorite Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake from 50’s Prime Time Café at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. I’m hoping at least one of the yummy treats from Akershus makes the cut!

One of my favorite aspects of this cookbook, is that every recipe was tested in a home kitchen! That means you can make it with traditional home kitchen appliances and utensils. This makes reliving favorite sweet memories from Disney at home even easier!

As a sneak peek the Disney Parks Blog has also posted one of the recipes from the Delicious Disney Cookbook. If you love the Madeleines from Chefs de France at Epcot check it out!

Currently there is no information available for release date or price of this Delicious Disney Cookbook. I’ll be eagerly awaiting that info though! Update! The Cookbook is $17.99 and available on the Shop Disney Parks app now!

Which Disney dessert is your favorite, and also which one do you hope to see featured?

“AP Days” Annual Passholder Event coming to Disneyland Resort this Fall

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 22, 2016

Passholders at the Disneyland resort in Anaheim will be thrilled to hear that AP Days will return this Fall at Disney California Adventure to celebrate Annual Passholders with special experiences and giveaways. The various events will take place over two phases from September 6 –October 2, 2016.

Part 1, taking place Sept 6-18 will be themed to Halloweentime and will include:

AP Days Showcase – Stage 12 in Hollywoodland
- Character Meet & Greet inside Stage 12 with Wizard Donald and Skeleton Goofy
- A Showcase of Halloweentime décor from Horticulture, Resort Enhancement, and Food & Beverage (weekends)
- A showcase of up and coming content for the Resort (Guardians, Main Street Electrical Parade, Food & Wine, and More to be Announced)
- Information Center for amenity distribution, AP Days questions
- Activity tables with coloring sheets
- Complimentary water
AP Days Welcome Center -Paradise Gardens Gazebo
- Vacation Planning Ticketing Cart for renewals/activations
- AP-branded photo-op
- Button distribution
- Social Media presence to promote @DisneylandAP and Pin Trading
Passholder Offerings
- Unique artwork button by artist Jeff Granito
- Free recipe cards (Pumpkin Twists, Pumpkin Bread, Rosemary Lamb Chops, and Sweet Potato Biscuits)
- AP Days inspired menu items at Paradise Gardens and Schmoozies (Specialty Pizza, Mickey Mouse cupcake at Paradise Garden, Malibu Mocha drink at Schmoozies)
- Exclusive Merchandise at Seaside Souvenirs and Studio Store
- PhotoPass special discount offers
- ‘More or Less’ and ‘Fall Mystery Shopper’ AP Adventure Activities

Part 2 taking place Sept 19-Oct 2 will focus on Fall Holidays and Thanksgiving:

AP Days Showcase -Stage 12 Patio
- Character Meet & Greet inside Stage 12 with Pocahontas & Meeko and Liberty Square Minnie
- A Showcase of Fall/Thanksgiving décor and offerings from Horticulture, Resort Enhancement, and Food & Beverage (weekends)
- A showcase of up and coming content for the Resort (Guardians, Main Street Electrical Parade, Food & Wine, and More to be Announced)
- Information Center for amenity distribution, AP Days questions
- Activity tables for coloring
- Complimentary water
AP Days Welcome Center -Paradise Gardens Gazebo
- Vacation Planning Ticketing Cart for renewals/activations
- AP-branded photo-op
- Button distribution•Social Media presence to promote @DisneylandAP, and Pin Trading
Passholder Offerings
- Unique artwork button by artist Jeff Granito
- Recipe cards to be distributed at Paradise Gardens (Choux Fritters, Yukon Potato Stack, Choc PB French Toast, Mickey Mouse Beignets
- AP Days inspired menu items at Paradise Gardens and Schmoozies (Specialty Pizza, Mickey Mouse cupcake at Paradise Garden, Malibu Mocha drink at Schmoozies)
- Exclusive Merchandise at Seaside Souvenirs and Studio Store
- PhotoPass special discount offers
- ‘I Spy with My Disney Eye’ and ‘WEAR In the World?’ AP Adventures Activities

There is also a carpooling incentive for annual passholders during this period:

All Annual Passholders who arrive with 3+ in their vehicle will receive half-price parking ($9)
Annual Passholders with 4+ in their vehicle will receive free parking
All APs with 4+ per vehicle will receive a special AP button

There is also a sneak peek at some of the special merchandise that will be offered:

You can find out more information on Disney’s website here.

Will you be attending the special even for Passholders?

Did you know you can now book your Disney World or Disneyland Vacation for 2017? If you’re unsure of where to begin planning your Disney Parks vacation, 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. Contact me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can find me on my Facebook page here.

photos: WDW News Today

Former Disney World Server suing Disney over lost wages

By

Disney News

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August 22, 2016

A former Disney World Server is suing Disney for lost wages as a result of too much non tipped work.

Alexandra Dumitrescu a former server at Cape May Cafe and The Wave … of American Flavors states she was required to do too much non tipped work which resulted in her receiving a reduced pay on her shifts.

At Disney World many tipped employees received a reduced rate of $5.03 an hour which is less than the Florida minimum wage of $8.05 per hour when they are working on jobs that don’t bring in tips.

Typically when cast members spend more than 20% of the work week on jobs that don’t bring in tips, they must receive the untipped minimum wage for those duties.

According to the Orlando Sentinel Dumitrescu is represented by Robert Parsons, an attorney with Cohen Grossman. Another lawyer at that firm represents Jasmin Sandoval, a former Disney worker who sued the resort this year over the same issue.

That case is pending.

Disney did not leave a comment on either case.

Wheelchair rental prices now the same at all of Walt Disney World’s Parks

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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August 22, 2016

In a move that makes the wheelchair rental at Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach no longer a complimentary service, Disney announces the new fees for the wheelchair rentals at the water parks. WDW Magic reports that the water parks are now charging $12 for a wheelchair rental, with a $100 refundable deposit that will be returned to you when the wheelchair is returned. This makes the wheelchair rental costs uniform across all the parks at the Walt Disney World Resort.

What are your thoughts on the new fees for this?

Did you know you can now book your Disney World or Disneyland Vacation for 2017? If you’re unsure of where to begin planning your Disney Parks vacation, 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. Contact me today at [email protected] for a free quote, or you can find me on my Facebook page here.