Kenzo Launches Clothing Collection Inspired by The Jungle Book

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April 3, 2016

In celebration of Walt Disney Studios’ “The Jungle Book,” French fashion house KENZO is launching a collection of ready to wear clothes that will only be available at Bergdorf Goodman in the United States.

This limited edition collection will offer designs for both men and women based off the classic animated characters. The collection official launched on April 1, and Bergdorf Goodman will reveal two windows on April 5 inspired by the live action film which hits theaters on April 15, 2016.

The prints used in the collection feature Mowgli, Bagheera the panther, King Louie the orangutan, Hathi the elephant, Baloo the bear and Akela the wolf. Collection pieces include women’s silk and cotton summer shirts, dresses, jackets and tops, and men’s light jackets, trousers, shorts and Hawaiian shirts. The collection also includes knitwear featuring Kaa the python and an intarsia Shere Khan pullover.

This is KENZO’s first collaboration with Disney and Shere Khan the tiger has replaced KENZO’s own emblem on the sweaters and tee-shirts.

“What we found most appealing for this project was to marry strong elements from The Jungle Book with details that we know as quintessential KENZO. There’s a way that everything comes together that is slightly familiar but also really fresh and exciting. The silhouettes we chose for the garments and accessories were inspired by the new direction Disney has taken with the live-action movie. There is a slight nod to jungle / safari elements (and even beautiful printed silk shorts directly inspired by Mowgli’s costume). Everything has been executed in a way that feels elevated and modern, which has been the collective goal of Disney and KENZO from the very beginning of this collaboration,” said KENZO Creative Directors Carol Lim and Humberto Leon.

What do you think of the new Jungle Book inspired collection from KENZO? Are you looking forward to more collaborations between the French fashion house and Disney? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Monica is an Alumna of the Disney College Program. When she is not walking down the middle of Main Street USA you can find her wandering the World Showcase, or enjoying a Dole Whip while racing to her favorite attractions. When she is forced to endure life outside of Walt Disney World, you can find her in Ann Arbor, Michigan where she lives and works. You can visit her Disney lifestyle blog here.

Stitch is Now Appearing in the Magic Kingdom

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 3, 2016

Did you hear the news?

Stitch has officially begun to make appearances in the Magic Kingdom. You can catch him at Town Square near the entrance of the park between 10:30am – 12:00pm and 1:10pm – 2:30pm. He has taken over the spot previously reserved for Marie from the Aristocats.

Are you excited to see Stitch in the Magic Kingdom? Let us know in the comment box below.

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Walt Disney World vacation. All of my planning services are truly 100% FREE.

New Clips and Featurette From “The Jungle Book”

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 2, 2016

With the release of “The Jungle Book” now just two weeks away, we have some more sneak peeks available from Walt Disney Studios! In the previous trailers, we had seen some snippets from each of the main characters. In these new clips, we get a longer look at these treasured characters of Disney’s history but with a new CGI twist.

The first clip we see our introduction to Baloo, played by Bill Murray. I can definitely see some Bill Murray mannerisms portrayed on-screen!

I can’t wait to see more Baloo (being my favorite “Jungle Book” character), and I hope we even get to hear some of the “Bear Necessities”!)

The next clip we get to see Mowgli meeting King Louie (Christopher Walken), a character that wasn’t in the original Rudyard Kipling stories but created by Walt Disney Animation Studios for the original 1967 animated film:

Lastly, a short IMAX featurette introduced by Lupita Nyong’o, who plays Raksha in the film (and was Maz in “The Force Awakens”). In this featurette, we can see more of the stunning, and incredibly realistic-looking jungle scenes; as well as Mowgli’s introduction to Kaa (played by Scarlett Johansson):

“The Jungle Book” will be released in theaters April 15th. Stay tuned for our review of the film!

Pic Credit: Walt Disney Studios

Disneyland Resort Refurbishment schedule for April 2016

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 2, 2016

In order to keep their rides running smoothly and safely, Disneyland often needs to close rides in order to perform maintenance on them, or even to give them a new look. As much as we don’t like it when our favorite rides aren;t running, its necessary to keep all the guests safe while on the rides. That being said, here is a list of rides and attractions undergoing refurbishments during April 2016.

Disneyland Resort:

Autopia – Jan 11- Apr 28, 2016
Davy Crockett’s Explorer Canoes – Jan 11- TBA
Disneyland Railroad – Jan 11- TBA
Disneyland Railroad – Mickey’s Toontown – Jan 11- TBA
Disneyland Railroad – New Orleans Square – Jan 11- TBA
Disneyland Railroad – Tomorrowland – Jan 11- TBA
Fantasmic!– Jan 11- TBA
Jungle Cruise – Jan 11- May 5, 2016
Mark Twain Riverboat – Jan 11- TBA
Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island – Jan 11- TBA
Sailing Ship Columbia – Jan 11-TBA
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – April 11- 14, 2016
Disneyland Monorail – Apr 11- TBA
Matterhorn Bobsleds – Apr 18-22, 2016
Matterhorn Bobsleds – Apr 25-29, 2016

Disney California Adventure:

Silly Symphony Swings – Apr 11- TBA
Grizzly River Run – Apr 18- TBA
It’s Tough to be a Bug!- April 25, 2016

Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel:

THE FOLLOWING ALL CLOSED April 25- TBA

California Streamin’ Slide
Paradise Kiddie Pool
Paradise Pool
Paradise Spa
The Sand Bar

We hope your favorite isn’t closed during your next trip to Disneyland!

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.

Fired Universal Studios Orlando employee gets his job back!

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 2, 2016

If you remember a while ago we reported a Universal Studio employee, Dean Kumanchik, lost his job for having his gun stole from his car? Well Universal Studios has given him his job back!

Since given his job back Kumanchik dropped the lawsuit which he filed against Universal Studios last month.

In case you are not sure what exactly happen here, this is the story;

Kumanchik is a licensed concealed weapons holder, Florida allows concealed weapon holders to lock their guns in their car. In December someone broke into Kumanchik’s car and stole his gun. Upon learning that Kumanchik had a gun with him at work, in a parking lot accessible to both employees and park goers, Universal Studios fired him.

Universal Studios claimed that since they have a school, Universal Education Center, there are no guns allowed on the property. Visitors are not allowed to bring guns on Universal Studio property.

However, Kumanchik, a ride technician who earned more than $30 an hour and had worked for Universal more than 20 years said he was legally allowed to have his gun in his car.

The case is now dropped, Kumanchik got his job back and all is well! Kumanchik’s lawyer was asked if he knew if his clients was still going to carry his gun with him to work, the lawyer answered he didn’t know, nor did he want to!

Do you think Universal Studios did the right thing?

Roundup of Mickey Appliances on Sale at JCPenny

By

Danielle

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April 2, 2016

Right now JCPenny online is having a great sale on many items across the online store, including those super fun Mickey Mouse appliances we’ve been eyeing. Including the ever popular waffle maker! Check out our top 5 favorite Mickey gadgets below.

5. Mickey Mouse Toaster

Get the most out of your toast with this Mickey Mouse toaster that turns breakfast into a fun occasion.

4. Mickey Mouse Mug Warmer

Perfect for the kid in you, this Mickey Mouse mug warmer keeps liquids hot and fresh so you can enjoy at your own pace.

3. Mickey Mouse Chocolate Fountain

Bring some Disney magic to your next social gathering with this Mickey Mouse chocolate fountain. The auger-style design heats the chocolate for a delicious flow, perfect for dipping marshmallows, fruit and bread.

2. Mickey Mouse Mini Waffle Maker

Turn every morning into a happy occasion with this Mickey Mouse mini waffle maker.

1. Mickey Mouse Mini Cake Pop Maker

Cake doesn’t have to be just for special occasions anymore with this mini cake pop maker featuring Mickey Mouse.

I really think I need all of these in my Mickey Mouse themed kitchen, what about you?

SeaWorld Camps Make a Splash this Summer

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 2, 2016

Summer is quickly approaching and SeaWorld Camps are back to make a splash again. Registration is now open for their summer program that offers educational, fun and exciting encounters for kids of all ages. The camps include up-close experiences with marine animals designed to encourage a lifelong passion for wildlife and the environment. Your camper will have quite the adventure being immersed in the wonders of the sea through up-close animal discoveries, exclusive behind-the-scenes opportunities and amazing attractions, rides and shows. The opportunities campers receive are unequaled – first-hand experiences with veterinarians, animal trainers and animal care staff. SeaWorld Camps not only allow children to surround themselves with aquatic life and education, but they also make friends, have fun, explore the great outdoors, ride world-class coasters and create lifelong memories. What kid wouldn’t enjoy this? Heck, I would!

SeaWorld Camps offer a learning environment that fosters exploration, inquiry, self-discovery and self-esteem with two offerings: traditional Day Campsand“sleep-away” Resident Camps.

SeaWorld Camps in Orlando:

Day Camps: During their particular week at SeaWorld Camp, participants learn about a variety of animals, including whales, dolphins, penguins and sea lions. Campers will focus on a different animal each day and learn about them through songs, take-home arts and crafts, as well as by talking with the zoological staff. Day Camps are offered for children going into preschool through 8^th grade. Lunch, snacks, a camp T-shirt and water bottle are included.

Resident Camps: Make it a summer to remember for students going into 7-12^th grade with a Career Camp. Campers experience what it takes to train and work with marine animals and have the opportunity to touch a penguin, snorkel in a shark cage, work with the animal care staff and create an enriching environment for the animals at SeaWorld. Plus, participants have the opportunity to spend a day at Discovery Cove^® swimming with dolphins, snorkeling with tropical fish and rays, and feeding exotic birds in a free-flight aviary. Resident Camp fees include all camp activities, lodging onsite at SeaWorld^®and at SeaWorld’s partner hotel for five nights, plus all meals and snacks. Supervision and guidance is provided 24 hours a day for the entire duration. Many campers fly in from around the country – these campers are picked up at the Orlando International Airport by the dedicated camp staff and brought to SeaWorld to start their camp experience.

Children have been impacted and positively influenced by this Summer camp for years. A study by the American Camp Association (ACA) revealed that over 90 percent of campers felt their summer camp experience made them feel good about themselves and helped them make new friends. 70 percent of parents said that summer camp improved their child’s self-confidence.For over 25 years, SeaWorld has provided safe, fun and educational camp experiences for kids of all ages in the not-so-traditional setting of a world-class theme park. Over the past 10 years, more than 300,000 youth have attended a SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Camp.

I’m ready to sign up! How about you?

For more information, visit SeaWorldCamps.com/Orlando or call 1-800-406-2244.

Disney Springs resorts “Spring into the Magic” offer

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 2, 2016

While staying on Disney property at a Disney Resort hotel can enhance your magical vacation, sometimes it’s nice to have a more budget-friendly option, which is where the Disney World Good Neighbor Hotels come into play. These hotels have a partnership with Disney, and while you won’t get all the same perks as you would get staying on-site at a Disney Resort Hotel, you can still have a great experience, and at a more economical price.

Right now 7 of the Disney Springs Area resorts are offering a discounted rate as low as $69/night until June 30, 2016. There are some restrictions, and you can find the full details of the offer here.

The 7 participating Disney Springs resorts are:

The B Resort & Spa
The Best Western
Buena Vista Palace Hotel & Spa
Doubletree Suites by Hilton
Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista
Holiday Inn Disney Springs
Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista

These are all great options to have some Disney fun this summer, don’t you think?

If you’d like to book a trip to visit WDW this Fall to join in on the Summer fun, 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] or you can find me on my Facebook page here.

“Deadpool” Blu-Ray Release Date Announced by Ryan Reynolds

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 1, 2016

From the non-Disney related Marvel news front, Ryan Reynolds announced via Twitter today that “Deadpool” will be released on Blu-Ray May 10, 2016. Reynolds also mentioned that there will be a “non-existent special edition VHS and Laser Disc, released 19 years ago”–staying true to the charming and funny Ryan Reynolds-fashion.

I’m coming… on Blu-ray MAY 10.

Also, non-existent special edition VHS and LaserDisc, 19 years ago. pic.twitter.com/WE28cJbW1G

— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) April 1, 2016

“Deadpool”, released by 20th century fox, is the highest grossing X-Men film of all time, as well as the highest-grossing R-rated movie worldwide! If you didn’t get a chance to see it in theaters, you’ll soon be able to check it out when you can own it May 10th.

Photo Credit: 20th Century Fox

New Clips from “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” Bonus Features

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 1, 2016

A piece of news I’m happy is not an April Fool’s joke is that the Digital HD copy of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” is now available! It is packed with in-depth bonus features, including four featurettes, a full-length making-of documentary, deleted scenes, and more.

To give you more of a taste for the bonus features you can see when you purchase the Digital HD copy that became available today, Disney & Lucasfilm have released some clips taken from the bonus features!

This first clip is a piece of Daisy Ridley’s audition for Rey. Just from this short clip, it’s easy to see why she was J.J. Abram’s pick for the film’s female lead:

This next clip is taken from the feature length documentary, where we see John Boyega (Finn) getting to see the Millennium Falcon in person:

Next, we get to see Oscar Isaac (Poe) talk about his role in the film, and give us more insight to his character:

The fourth and final clip released features Adam Driver discuss his thoughts on his character, Kylo Ren:

Be sure to get your copy so you can see all of the bonus features in their entirety, and stay tuned for our review of the bonus features, coming shortly! The Blu-Ray Combo pack will become available April 5th.

Disney World Refurbishment schedule for April 2016

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 1, 2016

The following is a list of attractions, resorts and restaurants in Walt Disney World that will be undergoing refurbishment or rehab during the month of April 2016:

Magic Kingdom

Walt Disney World Railroad – April 11-23, 2016
Monorail – modified service and/or routes. Read more here.

Hollywood Studios

The following will be closing permanently on April 2, 2016:
- Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure
- Lights, Motor, Action! Extreme Stunt Show
- Monsters, Inc. Meet & Greet with Mike and Sulley
- Studio Catering Co.
- High Octane Refreshments
- New York News
- Watto’s Grotto
- Youse Guys Moychindise
- Prop Shop
Writer’s Stop – re-opening on April 3rd with a new menu and operating hours
Pizza Planet – closed until late 2016

Epcot

Soarin’ – closed until summer 2016
Circle of Life – reopens April 2, 2016
Stave Church Building (Norway Pavilion) – April 18 – May 27, 2016

Animal Kingdom

Flights of Wonder – reopens April 5, 2016

Disney Springs

Planet Hollywood – now through summer 2016
Fulton’s Crab House – April 4 – fall 2016
Roadwork on Buena Vista Drive – now through May 2016

Blizzard Beach – closed April 3 – 5, 2016

Disney’s Fantasia Gardens Mini Golf – April 4 – 20, 2016

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

Bay Lake Tower: soft goods refurbishment – April 2 until October 14, 2016
Animal Kingdom Villas Jambo House: soft goods refurbishment until May 20, 2016
Beach Club Villas: soft goods & bath refurbishment until August 17, 2016
Boardwalk Inn: exterior repair and painting until May 5, 2016
Flying Fish Restaurant: now through summer 2016
Boardwalk Villas: guest villa renovations until Spring 2016
Caribbean Beach Resort: Aruba Pool – reopens April 15, 2016
Saratoga Springs Treehouse Villas: soft goods rehab until June 22, 2016
Wilderness Lodge & Villas: general resort refurbishments through 2017
Cub’s Den: unavailable through 2017

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Walt Disney World vacation.

New Images and Info on Tiffins Signature Restaurant

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 1, 2016

Disney has provided some more information about what we can expect from their newest signature dining restaurant that will open this summer in Animal Kingdom’s Discovery Island area. The menu at Tiffins will take diners on a voyage to Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas with exotic food selections. Tiffins will feature 3 elegant dining rooms and will be open daily for lunch and dinner. The Safari Gallery will honor the spirit of Africa and accommodate 64 guests whereas the Trek Gallery will honor Asia and hold 74 guests. The Grand Gallery will pay homage to the animal species that the Disney Conservation Fund works to protect and will offer 114 seats.

The travel-inspired artwork includes a static, three-dimensional piece that features prayer flags blowing in the wind. “As our research team traveled up the high mountains of Nepal, the winds were strong,” explained O’Brien. “The prayer flags are rarely seen hanging, they are always blowing.” This portrayal of the motion is realistically captured in the display which will hang above a corner booth in the Trek Gallery.

“Tiffins is not about a make-believe place, it’s about real people and places,” said O’Brien. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is about the intrinsic value of nature, transformation through adventure and a personal call to action, and the adjacent Nomad Lounge brings into focus these core values. With beautiful waterfront views, the lounge focuses on storytelling, and also on guests’ travels, with large banners as “artistic representations” of answers to travel questions written on the perimeter wall. For instance, “what do you always do when traveling” or “what was your most adventurous moment?”

“We’re trying to tell the story of how guests can make a change,” said O’Brien. While the answers of Disney experts are displayed, guests also have the opportunity to purchase a tag that supports the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund and to write their own answers to the questions to display above the bar– a way to share their own travel stories “so they can be a part of the story,” said O’Brien.

A Look at the Inventive New Menu

From the familiar to something new, the menu offers something for everyone – from a berbere-spiced lamb chop to a New York strip steak or beef short rib with potatoes. Starters include a Lobster-Popcorn Thai Curry Soup with Basil and Peanuts (Asia/Africa) to marinated grilled octopus (Europe). Sustainable seasonal fish crudo (South America) and a salad of roasted baby beets and goat cheese with walnut granola and a sun-dried cherry vinaigrette Discovery Island (North America) round out international creations.

Entrées include Berber-Spiced Lamb Chop with Mustard Greens, Lentil Stew and Mint Chutney (Africa); Berkshire Pork Tenderloin with Huitlacoche Tamale, Hominy Succotash and Red Mole Sauce (South America); Miso-glazed Black Cod with Forbidden Rice in Steamed Bok Choy with Turmeric Sauce (Asia), and Grilled Head-on Shrimp with Tomatoes, Roasted Fennel, Olives and Sea Urchin Butter Sauce (Europe). For vegetarians, the Roasted Market Vegetable Curry with Quinoa, Zucchini and Lime Chutney brings a taste of Asia.

Beverages focus on Africa, Asia and South America, including handcrafted cocktails and beers. Non-alcoholic beverages include exotic-fruit- flavored lemonades, Asian and African premium loose-leaf teas and coffee beans from Columbia, Ethiopia, Indonesia and Tanzania.

“With a focus on South American and South African wines, the beverage program is very special – we don’t have another one like it at Disney,” said Master Sommelier Brian Koziol, Food & Beverage Concept and Development director for Disney Parks & Resorts. “The program will focus on environmentality: producers that focus on sustainability, organic wines, and bio-dynamic viticulture,” he explained. “Environmentality is a core value at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and this beverage program is a great way to share that with our guests.”

Contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Walt Disney World vacation, including a stop at Tiffins in Animal Kingdom!

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog