Great Wolf Lodge Buys 50 Acres Near Walt Disney World

By

-

January 27, 2016

Back in November Great Wolf contemplated building its first resort in Orlando. GWR Orlando Property Owner, an affiliate of Great Wolf, just purchased 50 acres in Orlando near Walt Disney World. Preliminary plans called for an 800-unit hotel, just across Interstate 4 from Disney Springs. The property purchased is adjacent to the 1,037-unit Sheraton Vistana Resort Villas and just north of the Marriott Sabal Palms resort and golf course, and Marriott World Center.

Great Wolf Lodge is a Wisconsin-based water park resort chain and currently has 14 locations. The newest location in Southern California near Disneyland will be opening next month and there is also a resort under construction in Colorado Springs.

The resorts have a rustic log cabin look, similar to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, and attractions like five-story water slides, wave pools and multi-level treehouses. Other attractions in the Great Wolf chain feature multiple restaurants, conference space, ropes and climbing, miniature golf, kids spas, and mini bowling.

Most of the resorts are located in colder climates where indoor water parks are very popular. The land purchased in Florida may be used for an indoor-outdoor park.

Orlando is a great vacation spot and adding a Great Wolf Resort will give families more choices and options for a great vacation! I’m so excited to see what Great Wolf has in store for their Florida location.

Have you ever stayed at a Great Wolf Resort? Let me know about it in the comments!

For more information about vacationing in Florida or for help with booking your next amazing adventure, email me at [email protected] or follow me on Facebook!

Harrison Ford Reveals Star Wars-Themed Lands Coming to Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts on “The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60”

By

Chip

-

January 27, 2016

Acclaimed actor Harrison Ford, who portrays Han Solo in the “Star Wars” film franchise, gives viewers an exclusive preview of Star Wars-themed lands being developed at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. New details of the ambitious plans to bring Star Wars to life at both resorts will be revealed during “The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60,” with Master of Ceremonies Derek Hough, airing SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21 (8:00-10:00 p.m. EST), on the ABC Television Network.

The Los Angeles Philharmonic, conducted by music and artistic director Gustavo Dudamel, will join the celebration performing “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” from Walt Disney’s acclaimed animated film “Fantasia.” Previously announced “Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60” participants include Elton John, Josh Gad and Witney Carson.

Walt Disney’s legacy lives on through the Disneyland Resort, but even he might not have been able to imagine how big his idea would become at Disneyland and at Disney parks that span the globe. He launched an entirely new concept for family entertainment that remains as relevant today as the day it opened on July 17, 1955 for guests of all ages.

The Disneyland Resort will continue its 60th Anniversary Diamond Celebration through Summer 2016, extending the three spectacular after-dark shows created for the special anniversary – the “Paint the Night” parade, the immersive “Disneyland Forever” fireworks show and the all-new “World of Color–Celebrate! The Wonderful World of Walt Disney.” The exciting celebration, which also features sparkling décor, themed food and merchandise, will conclude on Labor Day, Monday, September 5, 2016.

The Los Angeles Philharmonic Association, under the vibrant leadership of music director and artistic director Gustavo Dudamel, presents an inspiring array of music from all genres – orchestral, chamber and Baroque music, organ and celebrity recitals, new music, jazz, world music and pop – at two of L.A.’s iconic venues: Walt Disney Concert Hall (www.laphil.com) and the Hollywood Bowl (http://www.HollywoodBowl.com). The LA Phil’s season extends from September through June at Walt Disney Concert Hall and throughout the summer at the Hollywood Bowl. With the preeminent Los Angeles Philharmonic at the foundation of its offerings, the LA Phil aims to enrich and transform lives through music, with a robust mix of artistic, education and community programs.

“The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60” is a production of Den of Thieves (MTV Video Music Awards, American Idol, MTV Movie Awards, Critics Choice Movie Awards, the Radio Disney Music Awards). Jesse Ignjatovic and Evan Prager are the executive producers. “The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1 stereo surround sound.

Disney “Star Darlings” Debuts First On-Air Special On Disney Channel

By

Danielle

-

January 27, 2016

Disney announced the television premiere of the first on-air special of its original new tween property “Star Darlings” FRIDAY, JANUARY 29 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel. The on-air special will extend the stories from the popular “Star Darlings” book series from Disney Publishing Worldwide.

The Star Darlings series features 12 unique girls who encourage tweens to celebrate their individuality, make positive choices, and show that they can make any wish a reality. “Star Darlings” first debuted in North America in September 2015 as a multi-platform lifestyle experience featuring content, music, and products spanning across books, online, mobile, toys and apparel.

The 30-minute on-air special, “Becoming Star Darlings,” introduces viewers to 12 “Star-Charmed” girls who pursue their individual wishes with determination and the help of their friends. The story begins on Starland where a major crisis is afoot, and the girls are chosen to be the first student Starlings to venture to Earth, or as they call it, Wishworld. Determined to succeed, the girls show courage and ingenuity—plus a whole lot of humor—as they guide others on Earth to discover happiness and fulfillment.

“Star Darlings” is rich with themes of friendship, confidence, leadership, and teamwork, and centers on characters that embody the qualities and characteristics of today’s tweens. The stories and journeys represented in the animated specials and book series are designed to inspire tweens to go after their dreams.

Music is a key element of the “Star Darlings” property, and as part of the property’s expansion to television, teen singer-songwriter and actress Skylar Stecker was brought on to remix the “Star Darlings” theme song, “Wish Now.” The remix, along with a live-action music video, features Stecker’s powerhouse vocals coupled with hip-hop-inspired beats and electro-pop synths. The Wisconsin native, whose debut album This Is Me is out now on Cherrytree Records, has been featured on Vevo’s DSCVR and iHeart Radio’s Next Up series which showcase in-studio performances from the most exciting new artist discoveries in music today. Also an actress, Skylar recently guest starred on Disney Channel’s hit TV show, Austin & Ally.

“I am so honored to be a part of the incredible world of ‘Star Darlings,'” said Stecker. “I’ve always wanted to be a singer. To be able to live out my dream and do what I love inspires me to encourage others to do the same. ‘Star Darlings’ feels like my own personal story and I can’t wait for my fans to check it out.”

The “Wish Now” remix is now available for download on iTunes, and on the “Star Darlings” Facebook, YouTube and Instagram channels.

The second “Star Darlings” on-air special, “Star Darlings Friendships,” is scheduled to air on the Disney Channel on March 25, 2016.

“Star Darlings” books, dolls and apparel are now available at mass retailers nationwide. The “Star Darlings” doll line, created in collaboration with master toy partner JAKKS Pacific, features dolls from both Starland and Wishworld. The Starland Fashion Dolls let their inner star shine with “out-of-this-world” fashions, while the Wishworld Fashion Dolls feature stylish, down-to-earth fashions for adventures on Wishworld. A full range of all-new products for tweens including fashion, accessories, beauty, and more will be available in fall 2016.

Disney is mailing out new DVC Member Cards

By

Chip

-

January 27, 2016

Disney is mailing out all new Disney Vacation Club Member Cards for 2016. We just got ours in the mail along with this information booklet.

In 2016 Disney Vacation Club is celebrating their 25th Anniversary! This year Disney will be sharing new Member only events, special offers, an easier vacation planning experience, and so much more!

Here are some of the events you won’t want to miss out on:

Disney Vacation Club 25 and Beyond Bash at the Magic Kingdom Park on Feb 25th, 2016 and March 3rd, 2016.
Disney Vacation Club Neighborhood Beach Bash at Disney Typhoon Lagoon Water Park this summer!
Disney Vacation Club Club Safari Spectacular at Disney’s Animal Kingdom this fall.
Merry Member Mixer holiday event in Epcot this winter.

Here are some Special Offering you won’t want to miss our on as well:

Multi-Day Ticket Offer – Take advantage of a Member-exclusive offer on Magic Your Way tickets.
Member Lounge – Enjoy access to the Member Lounge at Epcot, opening in late spring 2016.
Silver Anniversary Sweepstakes – Enter for a chance to win one of 25 unforgettable vacations in dazzling destinations.

If you are a Disney Vacation Club member you should be receiving your booklet and new card very soon.

Are you excited for all the fun events planned for 2016?

Enter for a chance to win a free Disney Parks Vacation!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 27, 2016

Love Star Wars? Want a chance to win a FREE vacation to either Walt Disney World in Orlando or Disneyland in Anaheim? Now is your chance, enter here!

You can discover the all-new and enhanced Star Wars attractions and entertainment at Disneyland Park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios Park! The blockbuster Star Wars movies transport viewers to a galaxy far, far away—and you can visit that galaxy at Walt Disney World Resort

Grand Prize includes:

3 nights at Disneyland Resort or 4 nights at Walt Disney World Resort
Theme park tickets for you stay
Airfare (if you are more than 250 miles from the parks)
VIP guide for one day
A Disney gift card to use however you like!

You may enter this Sweepstakes via the internet during the period beginning at 9:00 AM, January 21, 2016 and ending at 11:59 PM, February 18, 2016, you must be a registered Disney.com member to enter, if you are not a member join now!

All Entries must be received by February 18, 2016. Entries are limited to one (1) entry per member for each day during the entry period, whether a member has more than one (1) address or more than one (1) person uses the same address. You must be 18 years or older, a resident of the 50 states of the USA and not an employee or family member of an employee the sponsor, and contest is void where prohibited. The complete rules can be found here.

On or about February 26, 2016, potential winner will be notified via email, as appropriate, to obtain a mailing address as well as any additional required information. The vacation must be used April 1, 2016 and March 31, 2017.

Why not enter the contest today? Whether you win or not I can help plan out an amazing vacation for you and your family! Contact me, my name is Karen Asaro I’m a travel agent with World of Magic Travel and a writer for Chip and Co and Disney Addicts. I visit Disney World as often as possible to keep up to date with the latest going on throughout the world, if I’m not there I am planning my next trip! Let me help you plan your next trip you can email me or visit me on facebook for all the latest info!

Disney being sued by tech workers over H-1B Visas

By

Disney News

-

January 27, 2016

Walt Disney World is being sued by two former employees over the H-1B Visas incident from last year. Leo Perrero and Dena Moore filed on Monday in federal court in the Middle District of Florida. Perrero and Moore were among 250 employees laid off last year.

The lawsuit claims Disney and two outsourcing firms, HCL Inc. and Cognizant Technologies were part of a conspiracy against the workers by hiring cheaper foreign workers using the H-1B Visas loophole. In the lawsuit it is being claimed that the outsource company gave false information while filling out the H-1B visas saying the employees would not be replaced, presenting false information is a violation of federal law. The lawsuit is seeking class action status.

The attorney for the plaintiffs, Sara Blackwell claim the outsource companies are abusing the immigration system. In the 1990’s congress created H-1B visas to allow foreign high-tech workers to fill job in American where there was a shortage of help, there was supposed to be a limited number, it is now capped at 85,000 a year with some exceptions. The attorney also claims that every time the outsource company fills out one of these Visas they are lying and giving false information, and that Disney is aware of the lies.

Disney said in a statement that:

“These lawsuits are based on an unsustainable legal theory and are a whole misrepresentation of the facts.”

Disney went on to say they hired back more than 100 people, even offering Moore a position with the company making the same money as she was before. They also said hundreds of employers use the H-1B Visas and they are in compliance with the law.

HCL could not be reached for comment.

In its statement Cognizant Technologies said;

“Cognizant Technologies fully complies with all U.S. regulations regarding H-1B visas. We have a robust internal compliance team that ensures our practices are not merely compliant with existing laws in letter and spirit, but also adhere to best practices.”

An ad for Federation for American Immigration Reform which opposes the H-1B Visas featured Leo Perrero.

Approximately 2 dozen employees also laid off have filed complaints with the Equal Opportunity Employment Commission against Disney, these complaints are under review, they range from age and sex discrimination to having to train their replacements in order to receive bonuses and severance. Blackwell said hostile work environment may be added to the complaints.

How do you feel about this? Comment below!

For more information check out this Orlando Sentinel article.

Tee Public Site Wide $14 Sale for January

By

Chip

-

January 27, 2016

Great news the Tee Public Side Wide sale is on now!

Now through Sunday January 30th our friends at Tee Public is having their $14 Tee Shirt Sale! All Tee Shirts on the Chip and Co Store are included in this sale or you can check out some of the hot designs from other Disney Designers.

Here are the details:

Start – Wednesday, January 27th
End – Sunday, January 30th

Sale Details:

T-Shirts – $14
Tanks – $18
Hoodies – $35
Crew necks – $30
Wall Art up to 20% Off

Just click here to check out all of the fun Disney or non Disney designs, or click here to check out some of our Disney Addict inspired designs.

Ten Overlooked Experiences at Animal Kingdom

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 27, 2016

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is often seen as a half day park, but there is certainly enough to see and do to keep you there until the park closes! And while the main draws of the park, like Expedition Everest and Kilimanjaro Safaris, are amazing and should most definitely be part of your trip , there is also so much more to do. Consider adding one of these amazing experiences to your next trip!

Here are the top ten overlooked experiences at Animal Kingdom.

Pocahontas – This is the one and only place that you can meet Disney Princess and often times and opportunity to do so is overlooked.

Wilderness Explorers – I think that many people walk right past this experience because they think that it is just for kids or people with kids. It is a great time for kids, but it is a lot of fun for adults, too! On our family trip last year my son was 7 months old, and while he was all smiles the whole trip, he couldn’t do any of the activities and even slept some of the time while made our way around the park. My husband and I had a lot of fun completing all of the tasks and learning new things. You should try this out with, or without, kids and begin your quest to become Senior Wilderness Explorers.

Discovery Island Trails – Did you know that you can get up close with parts of the Tree of Life? That’s right! There are trails around the tree that give you the opportunity to get a better look at all of the amazing animal carvings and to try to find the hidden Mickeys! It is also a great spot to get away from the crowds and to take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful scenery.

Finding Nemo the Musical – Almost everyone knows about The Festival of the Lion King, and it is an amazing show that is worth your time. But there is also another musical in the park and it features your favorite fish friends from Finding Nemo!

Kusafiri Coffee Shop and Bakery – This little shop doesn’t look like more than a hole in the wall, which is what it is, but it has some great eats to offer. Stop by for pastries and wraps for breakfast, and sandwiches, cookies, and cupcakes in the late morning and afternoon. It is worth a stop and maybe even a snack credit. Also if you get a chance drop by Zuri’s Sweets Shop for some fudge, candy apple or a cookie!

Music – Amazing authentic and ethnic entertainment like the Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe, Gi-Tar Dan, Burudika, and Chakranadi can be seen and heard throughout the parks. We’ve all seen them and enjoyed a brief few seconds of music as we make our way to the next attraction, but why not stop and watch for a while!

Boneyard – Are you looking for a place to let your kids run around for a while? Well this is it! Head on over to DinoLand U.S.A. for a HUGE playground that celebrates dinosaurs and digging for fossils. There are slides, bridges, and even a huge sand pit where you can practice your digging.

Tours – Animal Kingdom also offers two behind the scenes tours. They cost extra and need to be reserved in advance, but they are worth it. Go on a special safari, walk over wooden bridges over wild animals, and enjoy a lunch on the Wild Africa Trek. Or see how all of the animals in Animal Kingdom are taken care of on the Backstage Tales tour.

Affection Section – Take the train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch, check all that there is to see and do inside Conservation Station, but don’t forget about Affection Section while you’re there. Here you can get up close and personal with barnyard type animals like goats, sheep, and pigs in a petting zoo like setting.

Restaurantosaurus – Located in DinoLand U.S.A. this quick service eatery offers guests a unique place to dine. Restaurantosaurus is the dorm of paleontology students that are on a dig. There is a lot to see inside, including an airstream. Enjoy burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, or a chicken BLT salad while you take a break from your fossil hunting.

Have you tried any of these experiences? Which one do you plan on adding to your next trip? Let us know in the comments!

My name is Miriya Whitaker, I am a travel agent with World of Magic Travel, and writer for Chip and Co and Disney Addicts, and I love trying something new on each of my Disney World trips! I would be happy to help you plan your next magical vacation. Contact me at [email protected] to start planning and follow me on Facebook for more Disney and travel information

Disney World 4th quarter 2015 injuries and illnesses

By

Disney News

-

January 26, 2016

The 4th quarter accident report for Walt Disney World has been released for 2015 and there were 7 incidents reported during this quarter.

Here is what has been reported:

Magic Kingdom

Seven Dwarf Mine Train: a 71-year-old man felt sick after riding
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: a 74-year-old man felt pain, tremors and numbness in his right arm after exiting the ride
Pirates of the Caribbean: a 43-year-old woman had a seizure after riding, she had pre-existing condition. Also a 30-year-old woman fell while getting in a boat.

Animal Kingdom

Dinosaur Ride: a 24-year-old man had a seizure after riding.
Expedition Everest: a 69-year-old man felt chest pains and dizziness once off the ride.

Typhoon Lagoon

Humunga Kowabunga: a 27-year-old woman suffered a deep cut while riding

Disney also started a new management structure which will give general management and executives authority over geographic locations (such as the land in Epcot) and not just over merchandise or food & beverage . The idea here is for the management to focus on overall guest’s experiences. The new plan will also leave one general manager per resort.

Source the Orlando Sentinel

2017 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend Dates

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 26, 2016

Princesses everywhere join in a ‘dream come true’ weekend of majestic races at the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend at the Walt Disney World Resort. This magical runDisney event is happening February 23-26, 2017 and will be on sale July 12, 2016 at noon EST.

The race events this weekend include: Disney Princess Half Marathon, Disney Enchanted 10k, Disney Princess 5k and kids races for children ages 13 and under. If you think a half marathon is easy-peasy, then put your endurance to the test and compete in the Glass Slipper Challenge – half marathon AND 10k. Don’t forget to register for the challenge so you can receive your special Glass Slipper Challenge medal!

Will you be training for one of these magical runs?

Email me at [email protected] for more information about the Walt Disney World Resort or to book your next fabulous Disney vacation!

Are Joy & Sadness coming to Epcot’s Character Spot?

By

Anonymouse

-

January 26, 2016

Hey there guys and gals it is I Anonymouse, your friendly neighborhood Disney Gossip Columnist. Today’s Disney Gossip brings me great JOY! You won’t be SAD to read this news for sure. Ok with the puns out of the way I can share with you the gossip.

A little healthcare Robot told me that Joy & Sadness from Inside Out are going to be moving in next door to Baymax in Epcot’s Character Spot in Innoventions West!

Presently Baymax is in that spot but as you can see from the photos there is room for other Disney Characters. Along with Joy & Sadness I hear that Hiro might be joining the big guy again!

Joy & Sadness have greeted guests in Disney World already, see the video here from our friends at MouseSteps:

Joy & Sadness are expected to start greeting guests this February!

Are there any other characters you would like to see in the Epcot Character Spot? Let me know in the comments below.

That is all the Disney gossip I have for now. For my past gossip articles be sure to check them out here. Got any good gossip/rumors please email me at anonymouse@chipandco.com or on my Facebook page.

Disney and Bandai Will Make a Splash this Summer for Disney/Pixar’s Finding Dory

By

Chip

-

January 26, 2016

Disney and Bandai today unveiled the new global product lineup celebrating Disney∙Pixar’s Finding Dory, debuting theatrically in the U.S. on June 17, 2016. Taking inspiration from the loveable storyline in the film, Bandai has innovatively translated the timeless characters to engaging play experiences for families.

“With the beloved characters from Finding Nemo joining a fantastic new supporting cast of friends, our expansive line is sure to spark imaginations worldwide to share in Dory’s aquatic journey,” said Kenji Washida, Vice President of Brand Management, Bandai America Incorporated. “From kids to adult collectors and everyone in between, the Finding Dory line from Bandai offers something magical for the whole family.”

With recognizable sounds and voices from everyone’s favorite fish friends, Dory, Marlin and Nemo (in addition to a few new pals), Bandai’s products capture the essence of the feature film and transform key moments into playsets, interactive toys, feature figures, plush, bath toys and much more. Specific highlights include My Friend Dory interactive soft figure – which features 50 different phrases as Dory responds to swimming and upside-down movements, and Swigglefish Figure Assortment that showcases unique “fun fish motion” allowing kids to bring Dory, Nemo, Marlin moveable figures and other new underwater friends to life! The merchandise will roll out globally beginning in May 2016.

“Disney∙Pixar’s Finding Dory presents a great opportunity for us to extend the adventures of these cherished characters through innovative products,” said Josh Silverman, executive vice president global licensing, Disney Consumer Products. “Working with Bandai, we were able to come up with fun and creative ways to translate ocean life into engaging toys that fans of all ages will love.”

Disney∙Pixar’s Finding Dory reunites the friendly-but-forgetful blue tang fish with her loved ones, and everyone learns a few things about the true meaning of family along the way. The all-new big-screen adventure dives into theaters in 2016, taking moviegoers back to the extraordinary underwater world from the original film.