The Voice of “Doc McStuffins” Sues Disney Citing Breach of Contract

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October 22, 2015

The original voice of “Doc McStuffins” Kiara Muhammad is suing Disney. The lawsuit was filed in L.A. Superior Court recently. She is claiming breach of contract. She is alleging they have not paid her what she is owed. She says her voice and likeness were used extensively for the first 2 and a half seasons of the show, yet she was not paid her 2.5% of net merchandising receipts.

The specific terms of the suit were not released. The suit does state that she is owed over $250,000. She is being represented by Timothy A. Hall of the Encino-based Law Offices of Hall & Lin, She and her mother Anitra Muhammad are also seeking waiting time penalties against Disney Character Voices and Studio City-based Studiopolis, Inc for repeatedly not paying her when they were supposed to.

“Doc McStuffins” is and was a huge success for Disney Junior. Kiara was hired in October 2010 and at the start of each session she was hired and then fired. So it was a day by day job for her. She was payed a flat fee of $5,000 for the use of her voice recordings from Oct 2010 to October 2012 for Doc McStuffins merchandise. It is said that on several occasions the Plaintiff said that both parties should agree to an employment agreement, which would entail a multiple day employment arrangement instead of day by day. The defendants denied each of the requests. They denied it so they could replace her at anytime they saw fit.

Kiara Muhammad is now 16 years old and is being represented by her father’s Sun Valley-based The Polygon Group.

Thoughts?

The Nightmare Before Christmas Inspired Line Hits Hot Topic

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 22, 2015

Nightmare Before Christmas Disney Clothes Hot Topic

Hot Topic’s new limited-edition line is just in time for Halloween, and maybe even Christmas!

Based on The Nightmare Before Christmas, the clothing line features items that can be seen on screen when re-watching your favorite Halloween/Christmas cross-over film, as well as items that are inspired by the movie and characters.

From dresses, to t-shirts, to blazers, to sweaters – this line has something for anyone. I just hope you like wearing the color black…

Jack Head Suspenders ($10) are a great addition to your Halloween look.

This women’s black t-shirt ($25) features everyone favorite skeleton front and center.

This Flocked Dress ($70) is one of my favorite pieces from the new collection. I love the lace and corset detail.

The Flocked Jacket ($79) is such as statement piece! Wear it with skinny jeans and boots for a night out.

The Moto Jacket ($55) looks casual and comfy; perfect for a chilly Halloween night.

I really love a comfortable sweater and the Jack Head Knit Sweater ($49) looks like it would be perfect to cuddle up in.

You will definitely need some confidence to pull off these Jack Head Back Patch Pants ($50). More power to you if you can make these work for you! They are just a little too out of the box for me.

I saved my favorite for last. The Fair Isle Cardigan ($54) is the perfect sweater to transition you from fall to winter. I really like how the pattern isn’t too over the top and you have to take a second look to see the Nightmare Before Christmas Elements.

What do you think of the new Nightmare Before Christmas line from Hot Topic? Do you have a favorite piece from the collection? I would love to hear your thoughts! Just let me know if 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.

Disney Finds – Hand Painted Disney Shoes

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Chip

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October 22, 2015

Did you see my post yesterday about Hand Painted Disney Magic Bands from designer BlueJeanHeart? If not you should check it out! Today I wanted to focus on their Hand Painted Disney Shoes. I am seriously thinking about picking up a pair of those Haunted Mansion shoes above! They would go perfectly with my Chip and Co Shirt! They even offer them in Low Tops.

Here are a few of their other Disney Designs:

I am sure they will have more soon. I am hoping for a Lilo & Stitch pair! Cost will run a little over $100 but that is pretty much par for any hand painted shoes on Etsy. Check them out and let me know what you think.

Happy Shopping

Custom Magic Band Kiosk Coming soon to Walt Disney World

By

Chip

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October 22, 2015

Reports are coming in that Disney is working on a new kiosk that you can soon create your own custom magic bands at Walt Disney World. WDW News Today broke the news this morning and learned that Disney quickly retracted the information. The only other info that was extracted from the Disney Parks blog was the location which is inside the Tomorrowland Power & Light Co. the exit to Space Mountain. At this location you can get a custom MagicBand or a D-Tech phone case.

It will include 8 colors, including purple for the first time. There will be about 40 different designs to pick from. You can have artwork and your name printed on the outside of the band. They will be printed on location with little to no wait. They are printed with UV ink, which dries immediately. NO cooling time needed! You can put it on your MDE account or give it as a gift. The price for a retail custom made MagicBand is $21.95 and a personalized one with a name will be $29.95. Once designed, the retail MagicBand is printed in the location.

custom magicbands 1

Personalized magicbands

Custom magicbands

Stay tuned to Chip and Co for more information when it releases.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Gasparilla Island Grill at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort serves up New Gourmet Hot Dogs

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 22, 2015

Breaking news!! Have you heard about the latest tasty treat that has shown up in Walt Disney World? No? Well you are in for a spectacular treat!

Head on over to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and check out the brandy new gourmet hot dogs at the Gasparilla Island Grill! There are seven, yes count ’em, seven new delicious hot dogs to try and each themed on a different city or region of the good old USA! All of the buns are made by the bakery at the Grand Floridian, so you know they are a tasty treat all on their own, with the exception of one, that is…check out the pictures below and by the way, only one type of dog is served each day, so plan accordingly!!

Sunday’s Selection is Cleveland and is topped with French fries, coleslaw and hot sauce…yum!

Monday’s Selection is Seattle and if you love spicy this is the hot dog for you! This hot dog is topped with cream cheese, raw jalapeños, chopped cabbage and finished with Sriracha…spicy!

Tuesday’s Selection is good old Kansas City! Looking at this delish pic makes me hungry! Topped with sauerkraut and Swiss cheese and served on a sesame seed bun…mmm, mmm good, need I say more?!

Wednesday’s Selection takes us to Memphis where Barbecue is king! Tantalizingly topped with two slices of bacon, barbecue sauce, chopped scallions and shredded cheddar cheese…I think I’m in love!

Thursday’s Selection is themed for Idaho! Now, this hot dog is an interestingly tasty exception and it is served on, yes, you guessed it, a baked potato! It is topped with bacon bits, chives, sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese…the epitome of the loaded baked potato!

Friday’s Selection takes us to the east coast and New York! A tasty New York tradition, this hot dog is topped with mustard, sauerkraut and onion sauce…a tasty treat that will transport your taste buds to NYC!

Saturday’s Selection and the final gourmet hot dog is Chicago! This traditional Chicago-style hot dog is a hot dog with a tasty Midwest flair! Topped with a pickle spear, celery salt, tomatoes, whole sport peppers, chopped onions, green relish and mustard on a poppy seed bun! Who would have thought, a taste of the Midwest right in Walt Disney World!

So, which gourmet hot dog is on your list of must tries? Comment below! I think I see a couple that I need to temp my taste-buds with! If you are in need of a quick gourmet hot dog fix (or anything else Disney!) but don’t have a trip to WDW planned yet, I can help! Shoot me an email at [email protected] and I’ll see you at Gasparilla Island Grill! Now, let the magic begin!

“Frozen” and Other Disney Movies Will Now Be Available for Streaming

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 22, 2015

For the first time in forever, Frozen, Disney movies and more will be available for streaming. But, as of right now this will only be offered in the UK. Disney is starting it’s own streaming service, similar to Netflix. It is called DisneyLife and it will cost about $15.40 (U.S. Dollars) a month. The service will offer Disney movies, TV shows from the Disney Channel, music and books. Keep in mind that not all Disney content will be available for streaming. You can download everything so you can enjoy it if you will be offline for a while.

DisneyLife will go live in November in the UK. It will be expanding to some parts of Europe after that. Unfortunately, there is no word on when they will bring this over to the U.S. Although, I can definitely see making its way over here at some point in the future.

“Families are accessing entertainment in completely new ways but their love for Disney and our unique characters and stories remains the same. DisneyLife is a great example of our strategy to utilize technology to connect with consumers in more direct and compelling ways, something that only Disney can do,” Iger said in a press release.

DisneyLife will be separate from Disney Movies Anywhere.

Users can also use the service on their iOS and Android smartphones, along with computers or TV with access the internet.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

“World” Happenings: A Roundup of News from Walt Disney World

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 22, 2015

World Happenings Walt Disney World News Roundup

There are several very cool things happening in and around Walt Disney World in the near future. We’ve reported them all, but just in case you missed one or two, here is a round up of some of the big news coming out of the Walt Disney World Resort recently!

Preview Scenes from Disney•Pixar’s “The Good Dinosaur”coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will get a sneak peek of Disney•Pixar’s “The Good Dinosaur” film Oct. 16 – Dec. 4, 2015. The preview scenes will be presented as part of the One Man’s Dream attraction on Mickey Avenue. In “The Good Dinosaur,” Pixar Animation Studios takes audiences on an epic journey into the world of dinosaurs, where an Apatosaurus named Arlo makes an unlikely human friend. While traveling through a harsh and mysterious landscape, Arlo learns the power of confronting his fears and discovers what he is truly capable of. Disney•Pixar’s “The Good Dinosaur” opens in theaters on Nov. 25, 2015.

New Disney Chocolate Shop Coming Soon to Disney Springs

A new chocolate shop, The Ganachery, is set to open in The Landing in late 2015 at Disney Springs.

Walt Disney World chefs traveled the world to research and create a custom blend chocolate with the finest beans for the all-new concept that will feature freshly made ganache (gəˈnaSH). Ganache is a luxurious mixture of chocolate and cream, and every chef has their own “perfect” formula for the indulgent sweet.

Hand-crafted onstage by a chocolatier, the shop will feature fresh batches daily, including dark (65 percent custom blend), hazelnut, chipotle and a custom blend flavored with the world’s finest spices and flavors. Beautiful custom packaging will make elegant take-home gifts and there will be chocolate bars inspired by Disney characters.

Ferrytale Wishes: A Fireworks Dessert Cruise

The new Ferrytale Wishes: A Fireworks Dessert Cruise is the perfect way to experience a breathtaking view of the “Wishes” Nighttime Spectacular at Magic Kingdom park. This elegant dessert party aboard the iconic General Joe Potter ferryboat gives guests a unique perspective of the Magic Kingdom nighttime fireworks spectacular from an exclusive spot on Seven Seas Lagoon. The evening features a variety of decadent desserts, including the “The Grand” Key Lime Tart and Polynesian De-constructed Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Guests also can toast the evening with specialty alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages in souvenir glow glasses. The cruise sets sail on select nights one hour prior to the fireworks spectacular. Cost is $99 for adults and $69 for ages 3 to 9, including tax and gratuity. For reservations, visit DisneyWorld.com/dine or call 407-WDW-DINE.

Reservations Now Available for Breakfast at the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant at Walt Disney World Resort

From Nov. 1, 2015-Jan. 23, 2016, the drive-in under the stars, Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, will open for breakfast serving an all-inclusive array featuring breakfast pastries and choice of appetizer, entrée and non-alcoholic beverage.

This experience is available for a limited time and is in addition to the regular lunch and dinner offerings. The price for breakfast is $23.99 per adult and $12.99 per child age 3 to 9 (tax and gratuity not included). Reservations are now available through 407-WDW-DINE or online at Disneyworld.com/dine.

New Shop Disney Parks mobile app offers Walt Disney World Resort merchandise

The new Shop Disney Parks mobile app is a convenient way for guests to locate, order and ship Walt Disney World Resort authentic products. For the first time, guests can shop for Walt Disney World merchandise from home and ship products directly, while guests at the theme parks and resorts can scan products for more information, purchase, and ship their favorite Disney Parks merchandise to anywhere in the country. The app also allows guests to see which Walt Disney World Resort retail locations offer specific items, as well as track guest purchases. New Disney Parks products will be added weekly. Annual Passholder and Disney Vacation Club discounts apply to purchases made through the app. Shop Disney Parks is available for iPhone, iPad and smartphones for Android.

GLIDDEN Colortopia Exhibit Coming to INNOVENTIONS at Epcot

The GLIDDEN paint brand and Walt Disney World Resort are thrilled to roll out a colorful new exhibit in INNOVENTIONS at Epcot. Opening in late fall 2015, the Colortopia exhibit gives guests a guided interactive experience with fun and surprising hands-on activities involving colors. Guests will be able to extend the Colortopia experience throughout Epcot and into their own homes with a mobile application and website set to launch later this year.

WestJet Reveals New, Custom-Painted Aircraft Inspired by Disney’s Frozen

A new, custom-painted Disney “Frozen”-themed plane featuring Anna, Elsa and Olaf from the beloved Disney film just joined the WestJet fleet. Disney artists, cast members and WestJetters collaborated to design the “Frozen”-themed aircraft.

Similar to the earlier Magic Plane, the outside of the aircraft tells a story. On the tail of our aircraft, Anna and Elsa celebrate sisterhood and the magic of snow. From the aircraft tail along the fuselage, the magic travels to warm the front of the aircraft where Olaf can be found enjoying a summer day on the beach. The inside of the plane has a design that matches the outside. In the rear of the aircraft, the overhead bins and headrest covers have a cold theme. As you move towards the middle of the plane, the interior decoration transitions to become warmer, ultimately arriving on a warm, sunny theme at the front of the plane.

While the Disney “Frozen”-themed plane is inspired by Walt Disney World Resort, it will operate flights throughout WestJet’s network, not just to Orlando.

So now that you’re all caught up on the news, what are you most looking forward to? While I have a weakness for sweets, I’m also excited for The Good Dinosaur preview at Hollywood Studios! Let us know what you are excited about in the comments below or on our Facebook page!

Does all of this news make you want to plan a trip “home?” Let me help! I am a true Disney Addict and also 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

My Top Spots to Grab an Adult Beverage Aboard the Disney Cruise Line

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 21, 2015

The Disney Cruise Line is known for it’s family-friendly way to cruising, but, that does not mean that there is no fun onboard for adults! While the kids are off in the Oceaneer Club playing with new pals they met on the cruise, head on down to the adult district on the ship to enjoy some fun and relaxation for yourself. Here are some of my favorite spots onboard to grab a cocktail after a fun day in the sun!

Disney Fantasy- Skyline– At this upscale lounge located in Europa, you can take in panoramic views of some of the world’s most popular skylines, which change every 15 minutes! Enjoy a world-class cocktail inspired by different locations around the world as you relax and unwind next to the “digital fireplace”.

Disney Dream– Pink– I absolutely love this venue! It sparkles and it’s pink! Here you can find intimate spaces with cozy nooks to make for a very romantic night out! This lounge is designed to look like the inside of a Champagne bottle and features a “Dumbo” inspired menu with drinks featuring….you guessed it, Champagne. The Tropicale (Champagne with mango puree and maraschino liqueur) is my favorite! You can also indulge in a Champagne tasting while enjoying chocolate chips to enhance the flavors. You can find this awesome establishment in The District.

Disney Wonder- WaveBands– Head on over to Route 66 where you will find WaveBands, a retro-futuristic nightclub designed to look like the interior of an oversized transistor radio. Here you can enjoy a cocktail or snack while surrounded by illuminated circuit boards and neon lighting. Nightly entertainment varies, so make sure to check our Personal Navigator to see what the day’s theme is!

Disney Magic- Keys– For a more laid back vibe, head on down to the After Hours section of the ship and enjoy cocktails in a dimly-lit, retro atmosphere. Here you can celebrate the Golden Age of Hollywood, surrounded by chestnut-colored wood walls, plush armchairs, large porthole windows and an illuminated bar. The upscale, romantic atmosphere is a great spot to grab a martini, cocktail or specialty coffee.

And, while not technically onboard, let’s not forget about…

Castaway Cay- Olaf’s Summertime Freeze– Here you can stay cool and enjoy an icy drink on Disney’s private island in the Bahamas. One of a kind frozen beverages in souvenir cups will keep you from melting in the tropical sun. While the drinks here are family-friendly, Disney Cruise Line does allow you to bring your favorite rum on board, so be sure to pack a bottle or pick one up in port to turn this awesome drink into an adult beverage!

Disney Cruise Line is now booking into early 2017 and I would love to help find the right itinerary for you and your family to set sail. Email me at [email protected] to learn more and for personalized pricing.

We’d love to hear your favorite places to grab an adult beverage on the Disney Cruise Line! Comment below!

Back to the Future Day 10-21-2015

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 21, 2015

Photo provided by Trevor Aydelotte (orlandobrothas)

Fans all over have been celebrating this seriously cool day and for most nerds, like myself we have been waiting for this day since the release of the movie in 1989. Well maybe not that long, but close enough! With all the fun today from the release of the special Pepsi Perfect to Nike sending the first ‘Back to the Future’ Self-Tying Shoes to Michael J. Fox, I have even better news. Today at Universal Orlando two very special things happened.

First up is a sweet picture of a couple getting engaged with a little help from Doc today. I think she said yes! Might need to hop in the time machine and go back in time to make sure!

Trevor Aydelotte(orlandobrothas) — Photo provided by Trevor Aydelotte (orlandobrothas)

Now for my favorite story of the day. A sweet couple got married in front of the Delorean. The bride was dressed very similar to Jennifer and of course the groom dressed as none other than Marty McFly complete with a classic hoverboard! Even better they were married by an officiant that had on a double tie as seen in Back to the Future II. Stephanie Pashkowsky and Jeff Lodermeier win fan of the day in my book! They not only got married ON Back to the Future day, but in front of a Delorean in the middle of my favorite theme park, Universal Orlando!

Below you will see the pictures that Stephanie posted on her Instagram. I love this story!

Now let’s talk about all the other fan fare from today. Just in case you have been living under a rock and have NOT seen the new Pepsi Perfect then you are totally missing out. It was released today (actually it was released early) and sold out very quickly. No worries Pepsi is offering another chance to own a Pepsi Perfect on November 3rd on their website. Were you one of the lucky one’s that got a NEW Pepsi Perfect?

The Future is Now | Back to the Future Part II | Pepsi Perfect:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrwRdzFP-fY

Also in news……Did you happen to see that Nike sent Michael J Fox the very first pair of the ‘Back to the Future’ self-tying shoes? Looks like we’ll be able to own our own pair too coming in the Spring of 2016! Who’s saving up for a pair?

Now I have a fun nerdy find to add to your Christmas list this year. On Think Geek’s website I found this really cool USB car charger and it’s a FLUX CAPACITOR!! Come on who wouldn’t want THIS for Christmas especially if you have several USB items to plug in while driving. I know I want one, and it’s only $12.49. Yes, please!

How did you celebrate “Back to the Future” Day? Did you head to your local movie theater to watch the movie trilogy? Were you one of the lucky fans that got to play at Universal Orlando today and meet Doc? I would love to hear your stories and how you celebrated!

For more information about planning a magical Universal Orlando vacation with an On-Site Hotel + Ticket Packages contact me anytime. I would love to help you plan the best holiday vacation ever!

My name is Leigh Saleh. I’m a Travel Agent with World of Magic Travel. I’m a Universal Orlando Specialist, SeaWorld Parks Specialist, Legoland Florida Specialist and a Disney Destination Specialist as well as many more destinations including cruise lines. Email me today at [email protected] to book your next “Magical” family vacation to your favorite destination.

You can also visit my Facebook page, click here for more details, and updates on special offers to your favorite travel destinations. You will also find a ton of pictures from Walt Disney World,Disney Cruise Line, SeaWorld, Universal Orlando, and Legoland Florida.

Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg in “Bridge of Spies” Interview Share Competition

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 21, 2015

Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks recently shared a competition between Hanks and Harrison Ford for title of “actor who’s made the most Spielberg movies.” Recently during an interview about their newest film “Bridge of Spies” coming to theatres, today, Spielberg mentioned how excited he was to make Indiana Jones 5, although that would put Harrison ahead of Hanks. At this time, both are tied at 4 movies each, but Spielberg said once Indiana Jones 5 is done he would have to make another film for Tom Hanks. Plans for Indiana Jones 5 were confirmed by producer Kathleen Kennedy earlier this year although no details are available yet. Steven Spielberg has had a close relationship not only with Tom Hanks and Harrison Ford, but also with Daniel Day Lewis who also stars in many of his movies.

Tom Hanks, pictured above with white hair, is starring in the title role of Clint Eastwood’s film about the heroic US Airlines pilot Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger. Hanks talked about how he doesn’t enjoy watching his own movies. “The problem with these movies that you’re in, is they never change,” he told the audience. “Once you see them, it’s not like they’re longer or better, or there’s a better angle of you — they’re locked in stone, and if you hate any moment of it, you hate it for the rest of eternity. I leave the room sometimes when they come on.” One movie Tom Hanks will watch is the 1996 comedy about the ’60s pop band “That Thing You Do”. The reason being that the film which Hanks directed was a very positive experience and “came out the way I imagined.” Mr. Spielberg agreed with Hanks except when it comes to watching his movies with his kids. “I’ve shown E.T. to every one of my seven children at the appropriate age, and I’ve enjoyed watching a movie like that I made through their eyes, because I see it in a different way every time.” One film he will watch alone if he had to choose would be Raiders of the Lost Ark.
As for Bridge of Spies, with two of my favorites involved in the film, I can’t wait to see it this weekend. Is it on your list? Loretta Garcia, Entertainment Writer for chipandco.com wants to hear your comments about the film and as always – see ya at the movies !

Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images

ESPN Sports Network is Planning a Huge Layoff

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Disney News

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October 21, 2015

ESPN Sports Network is owned by The Walt Disney Company, as many of you know. They are planning on eliminating 350 positions. They currently employ about 8,000 people around the globe. Disney has the 2nd biggest stake in sports programming with $44.2 billion. They are saying rising costs and not enough viewers are the reasons for the huge layoff. The cuts have not yet been announced, but they will be very soon.

The Walt Disney Co recently announced that August earnings at the cable networks will not meet what they projected. They have lost 4 million subscribers in just 4 years. Bob Iger recently described the subscriber loss as “moderate”. Their losses might have something do with the fact that they have one of the highest priced subscriptions. They tried to change on air personalities but that did not help the bottom line either.

In October of last year Disney and Time Warner signed a 9 year programming deal.

Thoughts?

Watch “13 Nights of Halloween” on ABC Family and Get a Halloween Surprise from Disney Movie Rewards

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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October 21, 2015

Disney Movie Rewards and ABC Family want to give you a Halloween treat just for watching the “13 Nights of Halloween“. How awesome is that?

Here is what you have to do:

Go to the Disney Movie Rewards Facebook page daily from Oct 19th to Oct 31st.
Click the link to ABC Family’s 13 Nights of Halloween to get the daily code.
Enter the code on Disney Movie Rewards to get your Halloween treat.

Sounds easy enough! Enjoy the “13 Nights of Halloween” and have a Happy Halloween!

Here is the code you have missed:

13NPMK

Don’t forget to watch the “13 Nights of Halloween” on ABC Family, starting Oct 19th all the way until Oct 31st.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria