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Employers at Disney World will Raise Minimum Wage

April 5, 2015

Two outside companies that have employees at Disney World will soon raise their minimum hourly wage to $10.00 per hour by 2017.

The union that represents the 400 employees, Unite Here Local 737, has announced the agreement with the Palmas Services and Patina Restaurant Group. Their minimum pay will first increase to $9.00 per hour and then $9.50 the following you and then finally to $10.00 per hour in 2017. Their non tipped employees whose pay is already above minimum will get an increase of $1.50 over the same 3 years.

In case you didn’t know, Palmas Services staffs restaurants in the Mexico pavilion at Epcot and quite a few food spots in the Coronado Springs Resort. Patina Restaurant Group operates two food spots in Italy pavilion at Epcot.

“Palmas and Patina deserve a lot of credit for matching the Disney union wage rates,” union president Jeremy Cruz-Haicken said in an email. “Although they are smaller hospitality companies than Disney, they recognized that matching our union standard was the right thing to do.”

I think this is a step in the right direction. What do you think?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

The food at Disney is worth the trip alone. Calories don’t count at Disney, yea I wish! Everyone deserves a little magic in their lives. I love spreading the magic and planning Disney World vacations. Contact me at [email protected] for your FREE no obligation quote.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson Character Sings In Moana

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 5, 2015

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has signed on with Walt Disney Pictures as the voice of the lead character, Maui, in the upcoming new musical Moana coming to theatres in 2016. Johnson shared the following instagram message –

“At DISNEY STUDIOS signing contracts to play the male lead in their next big classic animated musical, #MOANA,” “Just had an amazing 2hr presentation and it’s easy to see why they’re the greatest story tellers in the world. Im excited. And in the background my homies Fred & Wasabi from #BigHERO6 are jumpin’ for joy joy cause they heard I’m gonna sing in the movie. #WeTrulyKnowWhereWereGoing #WhenWeUnderstandWhereWereFrom #NeverForgetHome #MOANA.”

Moana brings us the story of a young girl (Moana Waialiki) in Oceania, 2000 years earlier, on the quest to complete her parents’ wish to find a fabled island in the Pacific Ocean. Moana, the only daughter of a chief takes off on the adventure of a lifetime. Along the way she will meet spirits and demi-gods from mythology including her hero, legendary demi-god, Maui (Dwayne Johnson).

Moana, the animated musical will give fans a chance to hear the Rock singing and bring us new characters to love. Mark Mancina brings his expertise to the film and new music to add to our Disney collection. John Musker and Ron Clements, who brought us The Little Mermaid and Aladdin) along with Taika Waititi (Actor and Screenwriter) are co-writing and directing.

Visit chipandco.com to stay up to date on all your Entertainment news and Disney promotions.

Disney Finds – Disney Apples To Apples Game

Chip

April 5, 2015

I had the chance to play Disney Apples To Apples last weekend with my girls. While no longer for sale in stores our friends picked this game up a while ago on Amazon. It was so fun and I have never heard of Apples to Apples before.

Take a trip through the Wonderful World of Disney with Disney Apples To Apples! Players both young and old will delight in the hilarious comparisons that result as they relive their favorite Disney moments … and kids will have fun expanding their vocabulary and thinking skills at the same time.

It’s as easy as comparing “apples to apples.” Just select the card from your hand that you think is most like the card played by the judge. If the judge picks your card, you win that round. And everyone gets a chance to be the judge!

Each round is filled with surprising comparisons from a wide range of people, places, things and events. Fast moving and refreshing, Disney Apples to Apples’ is easy to learn and fun to play – the perfect game for the whole family!

This is one game I will have to add to our Family Game Night! For more details click here or at one of the links above.

ABC Family April Update!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 5, 2015

abc family logo

Rating Highs For The Season Finale’s of Chasing Life and The Fosters!

“The Fosters” (8:00-9:00 p.m.)

At 8:00 p.m., the Season 2 finale of “The Fosters” recorded season highs in Viewers 12-34 (1.2 million/1.3 rating) and Females 12-34 (1.1 million/2.3 rating), delivered its #2 telecast of the season in Total Viewers (2.1 million), Adults 18-34 (716,000/1.1 rating) and Women 18-34 (625,000/1.8 rating) and its #3 telecast in Adults 18-49 (1.1 million/0.9 rating) and Women 18-49 (957,000/1.5 rating).

2014/15 season to date, “The Fosters” is the #7 general entertainment series program per Total Instagram Engagements (7,049,908) and the #4 scripted series, ahead of Fox’s “Empire” (3,860,582) and “Glee” (2,357,441)

• For the season, “The Fosters” stood as cable TV’s #1 scripted series in the hour across Adults 18-34, Women 18-34, Adults 18-49, Women 18-49, Viewers 12-34 and Females 12-34.

• Based on available full week of viewing, “The Fosters” surges by 62% in Total Viewers (2.1 million vs. 1.3 million), by 80% in Adults 18-49 (1.1 million vs. 611,000) and by 69% in Viewers 12-34 (1.1 million vs. 651,000).

“Chasing Life” (9:00-10:00 p.m.)

At 9 o’clock, the Season 2 finale of “Chasing Life” set a season high in Adults 18-34 (520,000/0.8 rating), registered its #2 telecast of the season in Total Viewers (1.4 million), Women 18-34 (450,000/1.3 rating) and Viewers 12-34 (740,000/0.8 rating) – behind only its January 19 season launch – and its #3 telecast in Adults 18-49 (757,000/0.6 rating) and Females 12-34 (639,000/1.4 rating).

• For the season, “Chasing Life” stood as cable TV’s #2 series in the time period in Females 12-34 and the #2 scripted cable TV telecast in Women 18-34 and Women 18-49.

• Based on available full week of viewing, “Chasing Life” climbs by 73% in Total Viewers (1.4 million vs. 810,000), by 104% in Adults 18-49 (764,000 vs. 375,000) and by 69% in Viewers 12-34 (674,000 vs. 400,000).

New Shows!

Kevin From Work

As part of the network’s comedy expansion, ABC Family has greenlit the single-camera, half-hour workplace comedy “Kevin From Work” to series. It was announced today by Karey Burke, Executive Vice President, Programming & Development. The series begins production in June and will premiere later this summer.

“Single camera represents the evolution of our comedy brand,“ Burke said. ”’Kevin From Work’ is an endearingly awkward love story – this time from the guy’s point of view.”

“Kevin from Work” is a half-hour workplace comedy centered on Kevin, a young man who declares his unrequited love for his coworker Audrey in a letter, believing he’ll never see her again after he accepts a job overseas. But when the opportunity falls through and Kevin is forced to return to his old job, how will he and Audrey continue to work together now that his feelings are no longer secret? The comedy stars Noah Reid (“Backpackers“) as Kevin, Paige Spara as Audrey, Matt Murray (“Rookie Blue”) as Brian, Jordan Hinson (“Eureka”) as Roxie, Punam Patel as Patti, with guest star Amy Sedaris (“Strangers with Candy”) as Julia.

“Kevin from Work” is written, created and executive-produced by Barbie Adler (“How I Met Your Mother,” “My Name Is Earl,” and “Arrested Development”). Aaron Kaplan at Kapital Entertainment (“Chasing Life,” ”The Mysteries of Laura,” “The Neighbors” and “Terra Nova”) and McG at Wonderland Sound & Vision (“Charlie’s Angels,” “The O.C.,” “Supernatural,” “Chuck,” and “Nikita”) will serve as Executive Producers. McG also directed the pilot and will direct several episodes of the series.

Shadowhunters

ABC Family has picked up its first scripted saga-to-series, “Shadowhunters,” from The Mortal Instruments franchise, announced today by Tom Ascheim, President, ABC Family and Karey Burke, Executive Vice President, Programming and Development, ABC Family. The series will go into production this May in Toronto.

Based on the bestselling young adult fantasy book series The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare, “Shadowhunters” follows 18-year-old Clary Fray, who finds out on her birthday that she is not who she thinks she is but rather comes from a long line of Shadowhunters – human-angel hybrids who hunt down demons. When her mother Jocelyn is kidnapped, Clary is thrown into the world of demon hunting with mysterious Shadowhunter Jace and her best friend, Simon. Now living among faeries, warlocks, vampires and werewolves, Clary begins a journey of self-discovery as she learns more about her past and what her future may hold.

“’Shadowhunters’ is a big epic saga that will resonate with viewers who come to ABC Family for the ‘Harry Potter,’ ‘Hunger Games,’ and ‘Twilight’ franchises,” said Ascheim. “A New York Times bestseller for 122-consecutive weeks, with over 35 million copies in print worldwide, ‘Shadowhunters’ is the perfect story to share with our audience.”

Burke continued, “Clary is a strong, dynamic and captivating character that our audience will immediately identify with. They will want her to succeed and will root for her on her journey to become who she was always meant to be. The series has a passionate fan base and an expansive universe that can sustain multiple seasons to come.”

“I’m excited to see ABC Family bring the world of the Shadowhunters to life. As a huge fan of long-form television drama, I can’t wait to see the story unfold and for the fans to have more time with the world and the characters,” added book author, Cassandra Clare.

“Shadowhunters” is produced by Constantin Film, and Ed Decter serves as executive producer and showrunner.

Cast to be announced at a later date.

New Unscripted Series’

ABC Family continues to expand its reality slate with three new unscripted series, “Startup U,” “Next Step Realty: NYC” and “Monica the Medium,” announced today by Tom Ascheim, President, ABC Family and Karey Burke, Executive Vice President, Programming and Development, ABC Family. These unscripted series join recently greenlit series “Becoming Us” (formerly “My Transparent Life”) and “Job or No Job,” which will all premiere this summer.

“ABC Family will become a brand known as much for character-driven docu-dramas as we are for our character-driven scripted dramas and comedies,” said Tom Ascheim, President ABC Family. “This summer will be chock-full of unscripted fare on the network as we build momentum with these three new series.”

Karey Burke, Executive Vice President, Programming and Development, ABC Family added, “From Silicon Valley where a diverse group of savvy entrepreneurial students are chasing their dream to be their own boss and launch a successful start-up to New York City where drama knocks daily at a realty firm specializing in finding starter digs for young people to a college co-ed who can communicate with the dead, we’ve got addictive reality covered.”

“Startup U” is an unscripted, one-hour series from the producers of “House of Food” that follows a group of entrepreneurial millennials as they embark on a semester at Draper University in Silicon Valley. Led by billionaire founder and venture capitalist Tim Draper, the 7-week program teaches the fundamentals of launching a startup company under the mentorship of America’s business leaders. In the end, students pitch their ideas to a panel of hungry venture capitalists with the hope that they’ll receive a life-changing investment to launch their business. To date, more than 150 Draper graduates have received funding totaling more than $15 million from mogul investors and Tim Draper himself. Brimming with innovation and determination, “Startup U” pulls back the curtain on what it takes to achieve success in the most innovative and competitive marketplace in the world. Viewers join a group of savvy millennials as they suffer through hard lessons and grab opportunities with both hands, all in the pursuit of their dreams. “Startup U” is produced by Ugly Brother Studios, a Sky Vision partner. Mike Duffy, Tim Duffy and Tim Draper serve as executive producers. “Startup U” starts production this month in San Mateo, CA.

From Lincoln Square Productions, comes “Next Step Realty: NYC,” a business-based docu-series following the passionate and ambitious employees of Next Step Realty. The Manhattan-based real estate firm specializes in helping recent college graduates find their apartments in New York City while navigating interpersonal and professional conflicts in the workplace. Danielle Rossen (“What Would You Do?”) serves as the executive producer. “Next Step Realty: NYC” is currently in production in New York, NY.

“Monica the Medium,” is a fascinating look at Monica, a junior at Penn State navigating friends, family, relationships…and the fact that she’s a medium and can talk to dead people. Her uncommon vocation provides an endless supply of emotional and engaging stories, with a unique millennial perspective. The show is produced by Dave Caplan’s Trooper Entertainment in association with Lionsgate TV. Caplan will serve as executive producer alongside Malachi McGlone. “Monica the Medium” is currently in production in State College, PA.

Stay tuned for more on ABC Family!

6 Steps for Planning Your Walt Disney World Vacation

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 5, 2015

Ok, you have decided that you really want to go to Walt Disney World! Now how do you make that happen? Planning a trip to the most magical place on earth can be very overwhelming. Even those who have been there many times before may struggle with all of the decisions and options available. Don’t worry, I am here to help! I am going to break down your planning into 6 easy steps!

Of course my first recommendation is to contact a travel agent with World of Magic Travel who will be able to guide you through all of these decisions with ease, but take a look at these tips to get yourself ready to book your magical vacation. I also recommend trying to book your trip 6 months in advance to help guarantee your first choice for resort, dining and entertainment, however, with some flexibility, last minute trips can be the most magical of all!

Step 1: WHEN TO VISIT

Choosing the best time of year to take your family to Walt Disney World is a very personal decision. Are your children in school? Are you willing to take them out of school for a vacation? Many factors come in to play here. Crowd levels vary greatly throughout the year and part of planning a great trip is understanding the best times of the year to visit the ‘World’. Holidays will always have much higher crowd levels. For example Christmas week and the weeks before and after Easter will see the highest crowds of the year. September has historically much lighter crowd levels, the resorts are usually cheaper and the weather is amazing! Check the Disney website or contact your travel agent to find out if any major events are happening when you are looking to travel. Is it Marathon weekend? Star Wars weekends? These will still be great times to visit but you need to be aware of major park events that may affect your trip.

Step 2: WHERE TO STAY

When looking at a Disney World vacation, the resort possibilities seem endless. On-site Disney properties come in many shapes, sizes and designs so finding one that fits your family’s needs should be easy. Walt Disney World resorts are available in three categories:

Deluxe Villas: these larger resorts have rooms that can sleep up to 9 people and area a great options for larger families or 2 parties traveling together. They have 1 or 2 bedrooms, kitchens, laundry and a lot of space!

Deluxe Resorts: Many of the deluxe resorts like the Polynesian Village and The Beach and Yacht Club sleep up to 5 in a standard room. These resorts offer larger room size, private balconies, beautiful pools with water features and slides, and multiple transportation options. They also have more dining options including table service restaurants on site.

Moderate resorts: These resorts are a great ‘middle ground’. Most offer 2 queen beds, great amenities but slightly smaller room sizes and no outside private space. They have amazing themes and great pools with varied dining options.

Value Resorts: These rooms will be the least expensive but still give you the magical experience you are looking for. Each has fun themes like the Art of Animation’s Little Mermaid room or All Star Sports with, you guessed it, sports everywhere! These rooms sleep 4 with some resorts offering family suites.

You cannot go wrong choosing any level of Disney resort. From Deluxe to Value, you will experience Disney cleanliness, quality and great customer service. There are perks that come with staying on property at Walt Disney World. Transportation from the resorts to the parks and anywhere else within the ‘world’ is free an convenient. Extra Magic Hours are available for resort guests only to enjoy the parks early in the morning or late at night without the crowds. Parking is complimentary for guests staying on site, and getting the ” whole Disney experience” is the best perk of all!

Step 3: DINING

If staying on Walt Disney World property you will have the option of a dining plan. There are different levels of plans to choose from or you can just pay as you go and not use a dining plan at all. Some plans offer 3 counter service meals a day, others 3 table service meals per day. Figuring out which dining plan (if any) is the best fit for you can be confusing. Click here for a breakdown of the dining plans offered at Walt Disney World to help make your decision easier.

From Mickey waffles and dole-whips to 5 star, chef’s-table dinners, the food at Disney is an experience in itself. Reservations can be made 180 days in advance of your trip and will help guarantee you get your first choice in restaurants and reservation times.

Step 4: TICKETS

Your next choice involves your park tickets. How many days do you plan on spending in the parks? Do you want to be able to have breakfast in the Magic Kingdom and dinner in EPCOT? These types of questions come in to play when choosing your tickets. Disney calls them ‘Magic Your Way’ tickets because you can choose the way YOU want to visit the parks! Base tickets allow you to visit one park (there are 4 total) per day. You may leave and re-enter the park throughout the day but it must me the SAME park. A Park Hopper options allows you to move from park to park within the same day. This gives you a lot more flexibility for dining and event options. If you would like to fight Darth Vader in Hollywood Studios at noon but catch Wishes Spectacular in the Magic Kingdom after dinner then the Park Hopper is the option you will want! The Park Hopper is a more expensive options so if you are on a budget, keeping a Base ticket is a great way to save a little money. You also have the option to add on water park tickets. The Water Park and More option includes visits to Disney’s water parks Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, mini-golf visits and a trip to Disney Quest indoor interactive theme park. The water parks close during certain times in the winter months so check out the park schedules before you purchase these tickets.

Step 5: PLAN YOUR ITINERARY

This is quite possibly the most important step in your vacation planning. Deciding what park to visit on what day, choosing your fast pass times, and coordinating your dining can be stressful! Remember to keep it fun! Try not to overextend yourself or your family. The Fastpass+ system allows you to choose 3 fast passes per day 60 days in advance. This is a great way to make sure you will be able to enjoy your favorite rides without a long wait time. If you already have your meals planned in the parks, plan your fast passes to give you ample time to include your dining plans.

Step 6: ADD SOME MAGIC AND HAVE FUN!

There are a lot of magical extras you may want to include in your trip. Special fireworks viewing parties, parades, Holiday parties like Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. Maybe your little princess would like a make-over at the Bibbidi-Bobbidi- Boutique, or how about a pirate treasure hunt in Adventureland? While some of these activities are an extra expense, they can really add a lot of magic to your trip. The Memory Maker is another great idea to enhance your trip. This photo service gives you all of your Disney pictures in one place for you to do with as you please. There are extra magic poses and ideas to make your pictures more special. Leave your camera at home and get photos of the whole family together!

Now that your planning is done, get ready to enjoy your incredible Walt Disney World Vacation! Soak it all in, laugh out loud and don’t forget to get a hug from Mickey Mouse!

A World of Magic Travel agent like myself can help you navigate all of your planning decisions for FREE! I love talking/planning Disney and I will be able to find you the best options to suit your vacation ideas! Contact me to turn your Disney dream into a reality! .

Could a Fourth Fastpass Option be on it’s Way to Disney World

Anonymouse

April 4, 2015

Hiya! How is everyone doing on this fine day? Now that you are reading my article you should be feeling awesome! I have some gossip on a very hot topic, the illusive 4th fastpass at Disney World. I know many of you, myself included, would love to see this happen. I know Chippy will be happy because he is too lazy to wait in line for his favorite ride. Shhhhh don’t tell him I said that.

Anywho, you know how it goes now, if you use up your three you can go to a kiosk in the park and get another one and so on and so on. To me not only is that annoying but the line can get very very long. A little birdie told me that Disney has taken notice of this, so of course they are working on changing it. I had a friend recently tell me that he was able to make 4 fastpasses in one day for his upcoming vacation. Now this is on the site not an in park kiosk! Someone else told me that if they refreshed the page a couple of time the 4th option would pop up and then disappear. So could this by a sign of what is to come? I certainly hope so!

What do you think?

Any who this 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.

Winnie the Pooh Is The Next Live Action Movie

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 4, 2015

Walt Disney Pictures continues to surprise us with more live action movie announcements. Along with Maleficent, Cinderella, Alice in Wonderland, Pete’s Dragon, Dumbo, Beauty and the Beast, The Jungle Book and Mulan, comes the news that Winne the Pooh will be next on the list.

As a huge fan of Pooh and the Hundred Acre Woods gang, I can’t imagine how Disney will create a live action movie but if Cinderella is any indication, I know it will be magical and unforgettable. With the use of CG and the unbelievable magic of Disney, Pooh and his friends will be transformed into live action characters full of new adventures.

While still in early stages of development, the details are very limited, but I know Disney will have all the favorites, including Pooh, Eeyore, Piglet, Roo and Kanga and Rabbit and Christopher Robin. I wonder who they have in mind for the roles?

Loretta Garcia, your Entertainment Writer for ChipandCo.com excited about this latest news, invites you to follow-up on our website and facebook pages.

Jiko – The Cooking Place Announces Tables in Wonderland Wine Dinners for April 2015

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 4, 2015

Jiko – The Cooking Place presents Tables in Wonderland events. Dinner will feature 7 courses paired with wines from our visiting winemakers and proprietors. The evening will conclude with a dessert and wine tasting on the Asante terrace!

When: Saturday April 18, 2015 at 6:00PM

Where: Jiko Cape Town Wine Room, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Price: $209.97 inclusive of tax and gratuity

Dress Code – Business Casual Evening Attire

Your hosts for the evening include:

Abrie Beeslaar – Cellarmaster, Kanonkop Wine Estate

Carl van de Merwe – Winemaker, DeMorgenzon

Bruwer Raats – Cellarmaster & Proprietor, Raats Family Wines

Peter de Wet – Proprietor, Excelsior Wine Estate

Lars Maack – Proprietor, Buitenverwachting Winery

Nicolas Bureau – Glenelly

Judi Dyer – Morgenster

Jiko Wine Dinner Featuring Bruwer Raats of Raats Family Wines

When: Sunday April 19, 2015; Reception 6:00PM, Dinner 6:30PM

Where: Reception on the Asante Terrace followed by dinner in the Jiko Cape Town Wine Room, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Price: $160 inclusive of tax and gratuity.

Dress Code – Business Casual Evening Attire.

You host for the evening is the legendary Bruwer Raats of Raats family wines!
Dinner will feature 6 courses paired with wines from Bruwer’s portfolio.
For reservations please contact Victoria Thompson by emailing: [email protected]
These events are limited, and reservations will be on a first come basis.
These events require a credit card guarantee, and there is a 3 day cancellation policy.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Disney World has some amazing places to eat. After all, calories don’t count at Disney right? A big part of enjoying your Disney vacation is enjoying some of the yummy food. There is a restaurant and a resort for almost every budget. Contact me at [email protected] for your FREE no obligation quote.

Disney World Spring 2015 News Round Up

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 4, 2015

There is always something new and exciting going on at Disney World. Here is a round up of all the new and continuing magic!

The Egg-cellent Easter Happenings:

The Grand Floridian has a beautiful display of their hand painted and edible eggs. This is the 4th year that you can see these beautiful works of art. They are not the size of your average Easter egg. They stand 16 to 20 inches tall and they are decorated with Disney themes by Disney pastry chefs. You can check them out in the resort lobby.

Epcot: the Disney Egg-stravaganza Easter egg hunt hatches March 27 through April 5. With a specially themed map in hand, guests may scramble for decorative eggs themed to Disney Characters and place the corresponding sticker on the map to represent that location. Maps and stickers may be purchased for $4.95 (plus tax) at Heritage Manor (American Adventure Pavilion), Pin Central, Plaza Towers (Port of Entry), and World Traveler (International Gateway). Guests may return the map (complete or incomplete) to one of the designated retail locations claim a surprise gift.

Magic Kingdom: Mr. & Mrs. Easter Bunny will be greeting guests in Town Square Courtyard March 22 through April 5. Guests can find specific greeting times on the MyDisneyExperience mobile app or by picking up a Times Guide inside Magic Kingdom.

Be Our Guest Restaurant will continue to serve breakfast. They begin testing a prix fixe breakfast from 8-10 a.m. daily through June 18. The fast casual breakfast menu has a decidedly French taste, with entrée options including assorted cured meat and cheese, eggs Florentine served in a puff pastry shell and an open-face bacon-and-poached-egg sandwich with brie. You can make reservations beginning March 17 for dates March 20 through June 18, 2015. Advance reservations are encouraged and the Disney Dining Plan will be accepted.

Magic Kingdom Unveils beautiful New Gardens. The new Magic Kingdom Central Plaza area between Main Street, U.S.A. and Cinderella Castle is now open to guests. The new landscaping is the first milestone of a multi-phase project that features sculpted gardens, charming fountains and winding pathways. This area is designed to be reminiscent of castle gardens and offers extraordinary viewing locations for parades and fireworks. I have seen the new gardens a couple of times and I love it! It reminds me of Central Park but you get the bonus of a great view of the castle.

You can meet Doc McStuffins at Hollywood Studios. Starting in May, Dottie “Doc” McStuffins will meet guests visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort in a setting inspired by her playhouse clinic on the Emmy-nominated TV show, “Doc McStuffins,” airing on DisneyChannel and Disney Junior. Doc is a nurturing, six-year-old girl who can talk with the stuffed animal she cares for. Guests also can see Doc McStuffins in “Disney Junior – Live on Stage!” and spend time with her during breakfast and lunch at Disney Junior Play ‘n Dine at Hollywood & Vine, both at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

More opportunities to soar and enjoy the midway coming to Walt Disney World Resort. Disney listens to what their guests want, so there are some very magical enhancements coming your way for some very popular rides. 2 very popular attractions will expand by adding another theater at Soarin’ and more midway track at Toy Story Mania! They will also be updating the screens and projection system at Soarin,’ bringing a visually enhanced experience. The expansions are expected to be complete by late 2016, offering even more opportunities for guests to enjoy these beloved attractions during their Walt Disney World Resort vacation.

Can you believe Disney has given out 10 million MagicBands!

Since its debut, the colorful and innovative MagicBand has placed guests’ vacation choices right on their wrist. The MagicBand is the key to unlocking the magic of Disney, connecting guests to all the vacation choices they make – serving as their resort room key, park admission, access to FastPass+ selections, PhotoPass photos and — for guests of Walt Disney World resort hotels – optional payment method for food and merchandise purchases.

Did you also know that the MagicBands were named one he “26 Coolest Gadgets of 2014” by Fortune Magazine? And Fast Company awarded MyMagic+ a coveted “Innovation by Design” honor in 2014. How cool is that?

Contactless payments now accepted at many Disney-operated locations.

As part of the ongoing efforts to improve the guest experience, a new form of electronic payment is now being accepted at many Disney-operated merchandise, quick-service food and beverage, outdoor vending, spa and recreation, as well as ticket sales locations throughout Walt Disney World Resort using stationary touch-to-pay devices (stations also used for payments made with MagicBands).

Known as contactless payment, this new form of electronic payment is most commonly associated with mobile apps including Apple Pay, Google Wallet or Softcard, as well as Near Field Communication-enabled (NFC) credit cards. Purchases using contactless payment are made by holding a mobile device or NFC-enabled credit card near the touch point (Mickey head) on stationary touch-to-pay devices.

Contactless payments are planned to be accepted at additional locations throughout Walt Disney World Resort in the future.

Dates Announced for 2015 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Epcot International Food & Wine Festival launches Sept. 25 and runs through Nov. 16 this year – 53 days of sweet and savory tapas-sized dishes and beverages, plus tasting seminars, culinary demos, signature dining experiences, live entertainment and more.

What are you looking most forward to?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Even if you go to Disney World every year there will always be something that you did not get to see or something new that you have not seen yet. I am an Annual Passholder and a Disney World pro and I can make magic happen within the smallest of budgets. Contact me at [email protected] for your FREE no obligation quote.

“Tangled: The Musical” Stage Show Aboard Disney Cruise Line

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 3, 2015

In November 2015, the endearing characters and captivating music of the animated film “Tangled” will enchant audiences once again, this time as an original stage show spectacular at sea aboard the Disney Magic—the first time the beloved Disney tale has been adapted for the stage.

“Tangled: The Musical” will immerse audiences in Rapunzel’s fairytale world through lavish production numbers and spellbinding music. Three new songs created exclusively for this show by Academy Award-winning composer Alan Menken and Grammy Award-winning lyricist Glenn Slater will bring the story to life onstage.

The show will stay true to the storyline from the hit feature film—with a few special twists to create a live staged production—featuring favorite characters like Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, the villainous Mother Gothel and Maximus the police horse.

The story follows the thrilling adventure of Rapunzel as she escapes the confines of her tower and the clutches of Mother Gothel, who wishes to shield the secret of Rapunzel’s magical golden tresses and royal roots. Rapunzel strikes up an unlikely friendship with the suave, crown-stealing bandit Flynn Rider, and together they face ruffians, thugs and a budding romance on a hair-raising journey filled with classic Disney playfulness and whimsy that will delight audiences of all ages.

New Songs Debuting with Film Favorites

Acclaimed composer Alan Menken (“The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast”) and lyricist Glenn Slater, the prolific pair behind the original soundtrack for “Tangled,” teamed up again to adapt the score and story for the stage. Complementing the score from the film, three new songs weave a delightful combination of narrative, humor and theatrics into the performance.

In addition to new melodies, audiences will enjoy live performances of favorite songs from the movie, including “When Will My Life Begin,” “Mother Knows Best,” “I Have a Dream” and the Grammy Award-winning ballad, “I See the Light.”

Adapting “Tangled” from Screen to Stage

Elaborate costumes, groundbreaking puppetry and stunning set designs transform the 977-seat Walt Disney Theatre into a fanciful Bavarian kingdom, immersing audiences in Rapunzel’s world and making them feel a part of her story. Disney assembled an all-star creative team to develop this extravagant production, with director Gordon Greenberg and choreographer Connor Gallagher joining Menken, Slater and a bevy of top-notch theatrical talent.

Master puppet designer Michael Curry, whose extraordinary creations are featured in Disney’s Tony Award-winning musical “The Lion King” on Broadway, is breeding a brand-new pedigree of puppetry in Maximus, the rambunctious police horse whose exaggerated demeanor becomes even more hilarious with the addition of the whinnying puppet performer within. This cleverly constructed character is sure to be the “mane” attraction of every scene he steals.

Dazzling costumes created by Tony Award-winning designer Paloma Young will bring the flair and vibrancy of the animated world to life onstage in “Tangled: The Musical.” The townspeople’s bright hues and Rapunzel’s feminine florals are perfectly balanced by the bristly browns of the rugged thugs and royal regalia of the kingdom officials, creating a sensational fusion of colors, patterns and textures.

Remarkable set designs by scenic designer Bradley Kaye (Disney’s “Aladdin—A Musical Spectacular”) will transport audiences to storybook locales that include Rapunzel’s tower home, the outlandish Snuggly Duckling tavern, a brightly adorned kingdom town and the resplendent lakeside setting of the iconic floating lanterns scene from the film.

New Show Joining Line Up of Exclusive Stage Productions

“Tangled: The Musical” complements the line-up of Disney Cruise Line-exclusive live entertainment performed every voyage aboard the Disney Magic, joining “Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story” and “Disney Dreams… An Enchanted Classic,” which will feature a new segment from the blockbuster animated hit “Frozen” beginning in summer 2015.

“Tangled: The Musical” will premiere during the Nov. 11 four-night Bahamian sailing aboard the Disney Magic. The Disney Magic will sail four-night Bahamas and five-night Western Caribbean cruises from Miami beginning Sept. 30 through the new year.

This is just one of the amazing shows you can see aboard the Disney Cruise Line ships and I would love to help your family or group get there so you can enjoy it as well! Email me at [email protected] to begin planning!! And, follow me on Facebook to keep up with Disney updates! Have a magical day!

“Star Wars Weekends” Entertainment and Celebrities Announced

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 3, 2015

You can feel the power of the force when Star Wars Weekends makes it’s big return to Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Disney World every Friday, Saturday and Sunday May 15-June 14, 2015.

This year’s event welcomes a new show, “Star Wars: Rebels,” new locations for autograph sessions and merchandise, and several Star Wars luminaries making their first hyperspace jump to Star Wars Weekends.

Star Wars Weekends has more than 60 Star Wars characters roaming the theme park for meet-and-greet opportunities, a Star Wars motorcade, the “Symphony in the Stars” nighttime fireworks spectacular saluting iconic sounds of the films, event-exclusive merchandise at Darth’s Mall, Star Wars-inspired dining offerings and specialty food and beverages, interactive activities, and more.

Plus, Star Wars celebrities, including returning favorites and event newcomers, will appear in star conversations, talk shows, autograph sessions and motorcades each weekend.

Bringing his evil prowess to Star Wars Weekends for the first time, actor Ian McDiarmid, Senator/Emperor Palpatine in the Star Wars movies, will kick off Weekend I May 15-17. And, to balance out the appearance of the dark side with a beacon of light, actor Frank Oz, the voice of Yoda in the Star Wars movies, will make his first event appearance in Weekend V June 12-14.

Are you going?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Star Wars Weekends will be here before you know it. If you have not booked your Star Wars vacation, you need to before all the rooms are gone! Contact me at [email protected] for your FREE no obligation quote.

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows Opens

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

April 3, 2015

The first phase of Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, the newest resort in the growing Disney Vacation Club portfolio, opened today. Offering 360 Deluxe Studio accommodations (opening in phases through summer 2015) and 20 over-the-water Bungalows, the new resort delivers the spirit of the South Pacific along with fun Disney touches to create a vacation experience that only Disney can provide. Nestled along the shore of the Seven Seas Lagoon, the resort is a quick monorail ride from the enchanting and beautiful Magic Kingdom Park and steps away from the world-class amenities of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, one of the original Walt Disney World Resort hotels.

“This is truly a stunning addition to the Disney Vacation Club portfolio,” said Ken Potrock, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Disney Vacation Club. “Research has told us that Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is one of our most beloved Walt Disney World Resort hotels. As a result, we integrated a new Disney Vacation Club resort that stays true to the original character of this spectacular and iconic property.”

The Deluxe Studios at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows are the largest at Walt Disney World Resort, sleeping five guests each. Each features tropical décor complete with striking prints, bamboo-style fixtures, a whimsical hidden pull-down bed and a split bathroom perfect for families. The Deluxe Studios also offer the flexibility of connecting to an adjacent room.

The resort’s Bora Bora Bungalows are the first such accommodations ever created by Disney. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom Bungalows transport guests to a tropical haven filled with Disney touches. Each Bungalow sleeps eight guests and offers a view of the Magic Kingdom Resort area. Inside the Bungalows, modern luxuries with an island touch add life to the already exquisite design. Amenities include a full kitchen, two bedrooms complete with flat panel televisions, split bathrooms, washer and dryer, two hidden pull-down beds featuring playful artwork, a private plunge pool on the back deck, and many other special touches.

Premiering with Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows is its newly re-imagined sister resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, which now offers more dining and recreation experiences with signature touches for guests to enjoy. Arriving guests are greeted in the Great Ceremonial House, with its dramatic new décor and signature chandelier. Also new is a large Tiki statue that welcomes guests with his outstretched arms.

The resort’s newly redesigned Lava Pool will feature a highly themed children’s water play area, Kiki Tiki Splash Play Area, and an enlarged deck for poolside seating. An enhanced supervised childcare option, Lilo’s Playhouse, allows parents to enjoy an evening date night together.

Guests in search of tropical snacks and libations will find them at new dining locations, including Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, a tiki bar that features exotic cocktails and Polynesian small plates. The nearby Pineapple Lanai serves the world-famous Dole Whip soft serve ice cream and floats.

Did you know that Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort was one of the original Walt Disney World resorts that opened in 1971.

They look beautiful! See for yourself.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Have you ever been to the Polynesian Village Resort? If you can’t stay there, I highly recommend visiting it. The lobby itself is amazing and there are some pretty good restaurants. Tonga Toast is a must! Have a Dole Whip for me! I am an Independent Travel Agent with World of Magic Travel Services. I love spreading the magic and making your Disney World vacation dreams become a reality. Contact me at [email protected] for your FREE no obligation quote.

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