Disney Descendants Mobile App Review!

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November 15, 2015

Recently Disney launched Descendants, the official mobile game inspired by the hit Disney Channel movie, Disney’s Descendants, available on iOS, Android and Windows devices. In Descendants, fans can create their own unique Descendants character and then join Mal, Evie, Jay, Carlos and more of their favorite characters for a wickedly fun adventure in the world of Descendants. As they play, fans will be able to experience all the iconic locations from the movie from Isle of the Lost and Auradon, such as the Gallery of Villains and Tourney Field.

Players will start the game by creating their own stylish avatar with more than 450 pieces of clothing and accessories inspired by the movie. As players unlock iconic locations in the game, they will discover fun quests like organizing school parties with Mal and tailoring costumes with Evie for a play. Players will collect special rewards along the way that will raise school spirit and help grow their ‘Legendary’ status.

I recently downloaded the game thinking it would be a fun little mindless pastime and was surprised to find it was actually a really intricate, fun game that is great for all ages. The one thing I loved about this game was the amount of choices you have for outfits and hair as well as skin color. I love that all kids can feel included because there is definitely a combination that they could formulate that would look just like them or however they want their character to look. I also love the amount of fun punk like alternative styles are in the game as it adds a certain flair and fun to the characters. For example you could pick to have half of your character’s head shaved in the game or even to have pink hair which adds an extra amount of fun to the game.
I also love that the game had no glitches as far as I could tell other than a few minor details like the same reminder popping up every time you open the game even if you’ve read it before, though I’m sure that will be fixed in the next update of the game. Overall it’s a wonderful game that is most definitely appropriate for all ages to play and have fun with.

Game activities include:

Style showcase: Players can create their own unique character and stand out from the crowd with millions of fashionable combinations, from stylish Auradon preppy to edgy Isle style.

Exciting missions: As they progress through the game, players can organize school parties with Mal, tailor costumes with Evie for a play, and unveil more exciting quests with the help of the coolest students at Auradon Prep.

Be legendary: Players can collect special rewards along the way to raise school spirit and grow their ‘Legendary’ status.

Explore Auradon: Ride on Ben’s scooter to travel between locations and uncover iconic areas such as the Tourney Field, Gallery of Villains, Carnival Grounds and many more.

Overall Grade A-
Disney’s Descendants is now available for free on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, Windows Store, and Amazon Appstore.

Stay tuned for more!

Disneyland Paris will remain closed through Tuesday November 17th

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 15, 2015

As part of the three-day national mourning period, Disneyland Paris will stay closed through Tuesday November 17th, 2015.

“We mourn those lost to the horrific attacks in Paris, we pray for the injured and we hold them all in our hearts. As part of France’s three-day national mourning period, Disneyland Paris will remain closed through Tuesday 17 November.” Tom Wolber, Président of Euro Disney S.A.S.

Our thoughts, prayers, and condolences go out to the friends and family of those involved in this senseless tragedy.

Top 5 reasons to stay at a Disney World Resort

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 15, 2015

So you’re planning a Disney World vacation! Now the big question is.. Should I stay on Disney Property? Yes! On top of Disney offering 3 levels of Disney resorts (Value, Moderate and Deluxe) all of the resorts are so unique in their own way! People actually go around and check out everything the different resorts have to offer, which coined the phrase, “Resort Hopping.” This is one of the most debating questions so I’m going to help you out and give you my top 5 reasons to stay on property!

FastPass+: When you stay on Disney property and add tickets to your package, you will get to select your FastPass+ selections at 60 days prior, rather than 30. When setting them up, you can go on at midnight (or until the last park closes) on your set day, and pick your FP for your entire trip (or 10 days out from Check in) So for those Must Do or hard to get attractions, this is a big help! Anna and Elsa was a must for my girls!
Magic: You’re Home. From driving under the Walt Disney World sign to being welcomed by a Cast Member at check in, you are submerged in the world of Disney at “The Most Magical Place on Earth.” Some lucky guests get a little added Pixie Dust to their vacations. For me, just being there is pure happiness (although a free Mickey Bar never hurt!) You’re surrounded by Disney and at Disney everyone is a kid! You get to let loose and have fun. Oh, and everything you need is right there; Food courts, shopping, pools, entertainment, fireworks and the big man himself, Mickey! Between the parks, resorts and the new Disney Springs, you’ve got it all! All these locations have a piece of Disney. You are part of their world (did ya sing it?) during your stay! The worst part is leaving.
Transportation: Whether you are flying or driving, you’re still covered! Guests flying, save money on a rental car because the Magical Express will pick you up right at the airport and bring you to your home away from home. If you prefer to drive, don’t worry parking is free even at the theme parks if you’re a guest at a resort. Once you arrive at your resort your options are endless! Depending on which resort you are at you might be able to choose from walking, taking the bus, cruising on a boat or just hopping on the Monorail to get around. You can commute to anywhere on Disney property using the transportation. The transportation at Disney is continuous and cycles usually every 15 to 30 minutes. Whereas most off site locations give you scheduled times to choose from. Remember, time is money! Taking the time to drive off property is less time you get to spend at Disney!
Packages: Disney Vacation Packages! My clients love this the most! Most hotels make you pay upfront when booking. So what’s better than planning a Disney Vacation, including resort, tickets and dining plan all for next year and only putting $200 deposit down and paying off the rest in payments, at your discretion as long as the balance is paid by the due date??? Getting a special offer added to that reservation!! Who wouldn’t like a percentage off, maybe a free day added, or how about some Free Dining? Disney often releases discounts and promotions a couple of months before it’s effective but don’t worry it can be applied to qualifying reservations. (This is where some people prefer to use a Travel Agent. If you don’t have time to keep checking on discounts and waiting on the phone to get it applied, why not use a Travel Agent to do that for you? Some discounts like Free Dining has limited availability and a 4+ hour hold time. Don’t take a chance on missing out. Service is free and I keep a look out and wait on the phone at 6 am to do it for you!) You can always add to your package as time goes on and if you’re waiting to see what kind of promotion you’ll be eligible for. Once you have a Resort reservation, you can plug that into your My Disney Experience and start making your Advance Dining Reservations at 180 days out. Adding tickets, don’t forget about making your FP+ choices at 60 days! Dining too? Why not! Who needs to carry money around when all of that will be linked right to your MagicBand! Memory Maker too! How convenient!
Extra Magic Hours: Extra Magic Hours (EMH) is a special benefit for Disney resort guests only (Also Dolphin & Swan, Hilton Orlando Resort and Shades of Green) It is when a select park is open a little longer for these guests. You will have to have proof of staying on property. (Usually just scan your band at an attraction) Every day one Disney Park will have EMH. It could be in the morning before opening or at night after closing. Either way running around the park before other guests go in or closing a park down is an awesome feeling. Some might say… Magical.

When you add all the perks of staying at a Disney resort it can be totally worth it! Bundle it all into one payment and get your moneys worth and with less hassle than having to navigate in and out of Disney everyday and paying to park! Remember, at Disney, you’re Home. So why stay anywhere else. Did these 5 reasons help you on your next Disney decision?

If you’d like help booking and getting the best promotions available or weighing out some options between on site and good neighbors, feel free to contact me! My name is Jamie Porter and I’m a Central Florida Disney Addict and a travel agent with World of Magic Travel. My email is [email protected] or you can ‘like’ me on Facebook by clicking here. I also write to Chip & Co in between my Disney trips!

Star Wars: The Force Awakes Premieres New Commercial

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 14, 2015

Star Wars: The Force Awakens is almost here. To make the wait a bit shorter, LucasFilm has shared a new TV commercial which debuted on Thursday night during the TGIT time frame on ABC.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens brings back favorite characters and new additions including: Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Lupita Nyong’o, Andy Serkis, Domhnall Gleeson, Anthony Daniels, Peter Mayhew and Max Von Sydow.

Along with producers Kathleen Kennedy, J.J. Abrams and Bryan Burk and Tommy Harper and Jason McGatlin serving as executive producers bring one of the most anticipated new Star Wars films.

In theaters this December 18, 2015, Star Wars: The Force Awakens gives fans a look at the First Order who is in a battle against the Resistance. Set 30 years after Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, the film will give us new insight and updates about our favorite characters.

Are you counting down the days? Let your favorite Entertainment Writer know what you think of the new clip below?

Man Injured at The Walt Disney World Resort Wins Lawsuit

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Disney News

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November 14, 2015

A man from Virginia recently won his 5 year legal battle with The Disney World Resort, after he suffered a Brain Injury when he was hit by a 10-foot Crossfire advertising balloon that was tethered to a tree. It somehow came undone and hit him in the head as he walked through the trade show area at Disney ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. He claims he still has headaches as a result of the accident.

He got treatment but 2 days later he was in a paintball tournament.

Owen Peterson’s case was originally dismissed because of a legal waiver Peterson signed after his injury. Later on, a Florida appeals court reversed the decision. They said Disney’s waiver should not keep Peterson’s suit from continuing. Disney decided not have a Supreme Court review, but they did say they think the suit is without merit and they will respond to the allegations in court.

“For Mr. Peterson, it means he now has the chance to go back and litigate his suit against Disney for the injuries,” his attorney Dineen Wasylik said.

Owen Peterson filed the original lawsuit in 2010 against a few others, including Crossfire Inc., which is the company that was a vendor at the paintball tournament.

The original lawsuit was asking for over $15,000 in compensation.

Thoughts?

Disney DIY – Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes

By

Catie

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November 14, 2015

Another holiday season is upon us! It’s already November, and that means that Thanksgiving is right around the corner – it’s a time to be thankful for friends and family, and it’s a time to come together and share a delicious meal too! Some of you may be lucky enough to be enjoying your Thanksgiving dinner at Walt Disney World (turkey at Liberty Tree Tavern perhaps?), but for the rest of us who will be preparing some (or all) of our own turkey dinner, here are some great Walt Disney World Restaurant side dishes that would be a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving meal:

Stuffing is basically a necessity on my family’s table on Turkey day – check out this southern inspired stuffing recipe:

Corn Bread Stuffing (Recipe courtesy of WDW Recipes) – Served At Liberty Tree Tavern

Ingredients:

12 Cups Cornbread (cut into cubes)
1T Fresh Chopped Garlic
1 Cup Onion (chopped)
1 Cup Celery (chopped)
1t Rubbed Sage
1t Dried Thyme
1t Poultry Seasoning
1t Kosher Salt
1/2t Black Pepper
1 1/2 Cups Turkey Stock (chicken may be substituted)

Directions:

1. In a preheated 400° oven toasts bread cubes 5 to 7 minutes or until barely golden.

2. In a large skillet over medium/low heat cook the garlic, onions and celery for 3 minutes or until softened.

3. Transfer to a bowl and add the bread cubes, herbs, salt, pepper, and chicken broth.

4. Toss well and adjust seasoning as desired. Additional broth may be necessary to achieve the desired consistency.

Some kind of bread or rolls are always present on Thanksgiving, and for those beer lovers out there, you will want to try this Guinness bread recipe

Guinness Brown Bread (Recipe courtesy of WDW Recipes) – Served at Raglan Road Irish Pub

Ingredients

½ Cup Guinness
¾lb Flour (whole wheat)
4lbs Flour
1T Salt
1T Baking soda
4 Cups Rolled Oats
1/2 Cup Molasses
1/2 Gallon Buttermilk

Guinness Reduction

2 Cups Guinness
2 Cups Sugar

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350.

2. Place all dry ingredients in a large bowl and add in the buttermilk in three batches as you mix and fold by hand lightly; the mixture should be quite sticky.

3. Portion in to greased or buttered muffin pans.

4. Bake in the oven until golden brown and it makes a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom.

5. Enjoy with Kerry gold butter or Guinness reduction and Olive oil.

Guinness Reduction

1. Combine the Guinness and sugar in a large stockpot.

2. Bring to a boil and reduce to simmer until reduced by half (approx 1 hour).

3. Remove from the heat and allow to cool at room temperature. Do not leave the pot unattended while it is coming to a boil as it may boil over.

Can’t have Thanksgiving without SOME kind of vegetable – my family is a big fan of green beans, and even if yours isn’t – these have bacon in them, so there’s that…

Ohana Green Beans (Recipe Courtesy of Magical Recipes) – Served at ‘Ohana

Ingredients

2 lb. fresh green beans

1 medium red onion, sliced 1/2 inch thick

3 cloves fresh garlic (whole)

3 TBS canola or vegetable oil

2 TBS low sodium soy sauce

2 TBS granulated sugar

1/2 tsp Kosher salt

To Taste – fresh ground black pepper

1 lb. bacon, crispy, crumbled

Directions

1.Wash green beans in cold water.
2.Snip both ends and break in half.
3.Bring a saucepan of lightly salted water to a boil.
4.Add beans and blanch for 1 minute.
5.Strain.
6.Heat a wok or fry pan over medium high heat.
7.Add oil, then add garlic and sliced onions and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
8.Add green beans and stir-fry for 2-4 minutes depending on how well done you prefer your beans cooked.
9.Add soy, seasonings and continue to stir-fry for 1 more minute.
10.Adjust seasonings if desired.
11.Garnish with crispy crumbled bacon pieces.

Hopefully these recipes have inspired you fellow Disney lovers out there to try something new and different this Thanksgiving! Check out More Disney DIY right here on Chip and Co

Exclusive Star Wars Imperial Meet ‘n’ Greet Locations for Chase Disney Visa Credit Cardmembers

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 14, 2015

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Chase Card Services, which is a division of JPMorgan Chase & Co., and The Walt Disney Company today announced that all Disney Visa Credit Cardmembers will have access to an exclusive Star Wars Imperial Meet ‘N’ Greet at private Cardmember locations at the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts.

Beginning November 16, 2015, the exclusive Star Wars Imperial Meet ‘N’ Greet location for Disney Visa Credit Cardmembers will be offered daily from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. PST at the Star Wars Launch Bay in Tomorrowland in Disneyland Park. Cardmembers simply present their Disney Visa Credit Card to enter the Meet ‘N’ Greet.2

Scheduled to open December 1, 2015, the exclusive Star Wars Imperial Meet ‘N’ Greet location for Disney Visa Credit Cardmembers will be offered daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. EST at the Star Wars Launch Bay in Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort. Cardmembers simply present their Disney Visa Credit Card to enter the Meet ‘N’ Greet.2

“With excitement at an all-time high for the next chapter in the Star Wars saga, we are delighted to unveil this new experience for our Cardmembers,” said B.J. Mahoney, general manager, Chase Card Services. “This immersive experience will delight fans and continues our efforts to bring the magic and wonder of Star Wars to Cardmembers.”

Earlier this year, new double-sided card designs featuring Darth Vader, Yoda and R2-D2 with C-3PO were introduced for the Disney Visa Credit Card portfolio.3 In addition, all Disney Visa Cardmembers can enjoy savings on select Star Wars merchandise purchases at Disney Store, DisneyStore.com and select locations at Walt Disney World and the Disneyland Resorts.1 Cardmembers also have the opportunity to take advantage of upcoming Star Wars-related limited-time offers.

1 Offers and offer elements including, but not limited to, participating locations, are subject to availability and additional restrictions, and may change or be canceled without notice. Must use a valid Disney Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card to receive special offers. Merchandise discount may not be available for certain items and at certain locations including Disneyland® Resort and Walt Disney World Resort Operating Participant locations and any other locations or kiosks that are not owned and operated by the owners of the Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland® Resort. To receive a merchandise discount, you must mention the specific offer. For entry into the Disney Character or Star Wars™ Imperial Meet ‘N’ Greet Photo Opportunities, must present your valid Disney Visa Credit Card. Not valid in combination with other offers, discounts, promotions or with any previous purchase. Minimum purchase and/or separate admission may be required. Offers are for personal use only and may not be transferred or resold. Chase is not responsible or liable for fulfillment of these Disney Theme Park perks.

2 The Disneyland Resort Character Meet ‘N’ Greet Photo Opportunities are offered daily during set hours–the Disney Character Meet ‘N’ Greet is at Disney California Adventure Park and the Star Wars™ Imperial Meet ‘N’ Greet is at Disneyland Park. The Walt Disney World Resort Character Meet ‘N’ Greet Photo Opportunities are offered daily during set hours–the Disney Character Meet ‘N’ Greet is at Epcot and the Star Wars™ Imperial Meet ‘N’ Greet is at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Separate Theme Park admission required for each Meet ‘N’ Greet Opportunity. Must present a valid Disney Visa Credit Card for entry for up to 6 people per cardmember account (each cardmember account may be used for entry only one time per day). Operating times, days of the week, locations and appearance of Characters may vary and are subject to restrictions and change or cancellation without notice. Not valid in combination with other offers, discounts or promotions. Offer is for personal use only and may not be transferred or resold. Please visit DisneyRewards.com/ParkPerks for additional information.

3 Card designs are subject to availability and may change without notice.

STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. And/or its affiliates & Lucasfilm Ltd.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Disney Finds – Bring home the smells of Disney with these candles

By

Chip

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November 14, 2015

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You know when you are at Disney there are just some smells you wish you could bottle and bring home with you. What if I told you there is a way for you to buy some of that magic to enjoy when you are going through Disney withdrawals? Our friends at Walter & Rosie Candle Co have done just that in candle form! Check out some of the smells they have available:

They even have some Holiday scents for a limited time!

Of course if candles aren’t your thing you could also try their wax tarts. You will be surprised how a candle can help with your Post Disney Depression, or it can make you miss Disney even more. Either way I think I need to plan another trip to Disney or order some Walter & Rosie Candles today!

Happy Shopping!

Disneyland Paris closes in wake of November 13th Attacks

By

Chip

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November 14, 2015

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Disneyland Paris has closed its doors for the first time ever in its 23-year history. This message was posted on their website.

In light of the recent tragic events in France and in support of our community and the victims of these horrendous attacks, Disneyland Paris has decided not to open its theme parks on Saturday 14 November. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of those affected by these horrible events.

Compte tenu de la gravité des événements survenus en France, et par solidarité avec le gouvernement français et les victimes de ces odieuses attaques, Disneyland Paris a décidé de ne pas ouvrir le samedi 14 novembre. Nos pensées et prières vont vers tous ceux qui ont été touchés par ces horribles événements.

Here is a Statement from Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company on behalf of Disneyland Paris employees.

“On behalf of all of our employees at Disneyland Paris and throughout France, our hearts go out to the innocent victims of this horrible terrorist attack. We along with the world, pray for the victims, their families and their friends — and for all affected by this horrific act.” Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to all people affected by this senseless tragedy.

Photo credit Disney

Twenty Eight & Main Shop Now Open in Marketplace Co-Op at Disney Springs Marketplace

By

Chip

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November 14, 2015

Now open in the Disney Springs Marketplace Co-Op is all new Twenty Eight & Main boutique. Twenty Eight & Main is Disney’s new men’s apparel and accessories collection created for especially for distinguished gentlemen who love Disney Parks.

This location carries a variety of apparel items that are classic, stylish yet modern. The shop also carries apparel and accessories by Pendleton along with shirts by Levi Strauss & Co. There will be several apparel items that will only be found in this location at Disney Springs. You can see some of those items along a wall that has framed shirts.

Finally, the shop is filled with little details including nods to the lion from the Disney family crest.

Look for select Twenty Eight & Main items on our Disney Parks online store by visiting http://www.DisneyStore.com/28&Main. Select items may also be found using the free Shop Disney Parks app.

Here are some additional images from the shop.

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Celebrate ‘The Good Dinosaur’ November 21 and 22 at Disney Springs and the Downtown Disney District as Part of Dino Week

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 14, 2015

The toddler (and let’s not lie, the mommy, too) in our house is really looking forward to the newest Disney•Pixar release: “The Good Dinosaur” which debuts in 3D nationwide on November 25th. To get everyone excited for the upcoming release, the celebration is actually starting the weekend before the film hits theatres, with “The Good Dinosaur Weekend” taking place at Disney Springs Marketplace in Florida and at the Downtown Disney District in California, across from Downtown Disney AMC 12.

On November 21 and 22, both locations will host a celebration with a live DJ and a Dinosaur Dance Party from 11am to 11pm. As the sun sets, meteor shower lighting effects will light up the night. Special décor, photo opportunities and giveaways will amp up the party. T-REX and Rainforest Café will also join in the dinosaur-themed fun – and what a perfect way to kick off your Dino Party than with lunch or dinner with T-Rex.

“The Good Dinosaur Weekend” is part of Dino Week, happening November 14 – November 22 throughout the Walt Disney Company. Dino Week kicks off this Saturday, November 14th.

Are you excited for the newest Disney•Pixar release: “The Good Dinosaur”? Will you be celebrating Dino Week at Disney World or Disneyland? It’s sure to be a Prehistoric good time!

Want to make sure you know about all of the little extra’s happening during your trip? Let me help you with the planning and I’ll make sure you stay up-to-date on all of the happens during your Disney vacation! I am a Travel Magician with World of Magic Travel, the preferred agency of Chip and Co and the Disney Addicts! Email me today at [email protected] to start planning your “Magical” vacation! –Alissa

Photo credit Disney

Disney has Designed a Very High Tech Watch

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 13, 2015

Disney, in collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University, recently revealed their prototype for a new smartwatch that actually interacts with real world things. It uses what they are calling “EM-Sense.” It can detect and recognize those unique EM levels when the person wearing it makes contact with an object. The human body is conductive and actually serves as a sort of antenna through which the signal travels. The signal is then sent to the watch.

However, Disney does not have it’s own watch so they used the Samsung Galaxy Gear for the demonstration. The watch would need some wiring to a sensor. So, it is not as easy as it sounds.

Some of the features are more fun the functional, but that is where the fun is.

We don’t know much about other features that it may have, but I would imagine there would be at least some practical and useful features that would make your life easier, if it becomes a reality.

What do you think?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria