Walt Disney World Resort Becomes Founding Sponsor of Orlando City Soccer Club

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March 8, 2015

Walt Disney World Resort and Orlando City Soccer Club have announced a multi-year agreement making Walt Disney World Resort a founding sponsor of the Club. The announcement comes at an exciting time, just days before Orlando City Soccer Club’s 2015 Major League Soccer debut on Sunday.

Under the agreement, Walt Disney World Resort becomes the official theme park and resort destination of Orlando City Soccer Club; Disney Cruise Line becomes the official cruise line of the Club; and Disney Vacation Club becomes the official vacation club of the team. Also, Disney will have a significant presence at Orlando City home matches at the Citrus Bowl in 2015 as well as at its future multi-purpose downtown stadium starting in 2016.

Additionally, the new agreement will help bolster Orlando’s and Walt Disney World Resort’s profile in key travel markets, such as Brazil and other Latin American countries where soccer is a national pastime.

Building on the growing sports business at Walt Disney World Resort, the Orlando City Soccer Club will collaborate with ESPN Wide World of Sports at Walt Disney World Resort on a range of soccer events at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. The sports complex is the premier site for amateur sports in the nation and has a rich history of hosting a variety of youth and professional soccer events.

“This collaboration further strengthens the existing bond between the two Orlandos – the one known around the world as Disney theme parks and the metropolitan, vibrant growing downtown represented by Purple Pride,” said Club President and Founder Phil Rawlins. “Over 60 million tourists visited Orlando last year – with many coming from Brazil. There’s a natural synergy here to showcase all the wonder that is the City Beautiful. We also look forward to jointly hosting additional high-profile soccer events at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Disney through this relationship to the benefit of our fans, our community and the region.”

“Orlando City Soccer Club is writing an exciting new chapter in our region’s history,” said George A. Kalogridis, president of Walt Disney World Resort. “We are proud to be part of the community-wide team effort to help the Lions become Central Florida’s next great success story.”

The 2015 Major League Soccer season kicks off at the Orlando Citrus Bowl as the Lions host New York City FC in front of a capacity crowd of more than 60,000 on March 8, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. ET.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Have you been thinking about taking a Disney vacation? Do you think a Disney vacation is not in your budget? You would be surprised. I always do Disney on a very tight budget. Contact me at [email protected] for your FREE no obligation quote.

Disneyland Closing Innoventions!

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 8, 2015

A Disneyland spokesperson announced on Friday, that Disneyland’s Innoventions attraction would be closing on March 31.

With this announcement, the rumors and speculations are flying all over as to the possibilities of a Star Wars themed attraction taking the place of Innoventions. John McClintock, a Disneyland spokesman, shared the parks make modifications and upgrades throughout the Disneyland Resort to continue to offer guests “new magic” but did not go further in commenting as to what “new magic” was coming our way.

Innoventions, located in the Carousel Theater housed between Space Mountain and Autopia was once the home of one of my favorite attractions – the Carousel of Progress (1967-1973). America Sings (1973-1988) was the next attraction to find a home in the building followed by Innoventions (1998 to 2015).

Currently home to 3 of Marvel’s superheroes – Thor, Iron Man and Captain America. Guests can check out the exhibits with full-size uniforms, meet and greet the heroes and play their favorite video games on the second floor while the first floor gives us a taste of what the perfect Dream House might be like in the future.

While the closing of Toontown had many, myself including, wondering if it might be the location for Star Wars themed rides and attractions, the news about Innoventions now has me leaning more towards the expansion of Tomorrowland.

In a recent interview by the OC Register, I speculated about both locations as a possibility for a Star Wars take-over.

“My gut instinct is Toontown,” said Loretta Garcia, an entertainment writer for Chip and Co.,an unofficial Disney fan site. “It’s a secluded area. It’s a good place for ‘Star Wars’ fans to just hang out.All Disney would have to do is revamp the rides and make it ‘Star Wars’ themed.” If not Toontown, how about Disneyland’s Tomorrowland? With Star Tours, a “Star Wars” simulator ride already in the area, it makes sense to expand on the Star Wars theme , Garcia said.

What do the Disney Addict Star Wars pros think? Are the closures of Toontown and Innoventions to make room for Star Wars? Or something even more magical coming to Disneyland?

Disney has found its Beast!

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 7, 2015

(Photo Credit – The Guardian)

Disney’s Live Action Beauty and the Beast has cast Dan Stevens in the role of the beast. Stevens, who is well known from the series Downton Abbey, tweeted the news about his role. With Emma Watson as Belle and Stevens as the Beast, we just need confirmation on whether Luke Evans will play Gaston.

Still in the early casting stages, with many roles to fill, I am excited to hear all the upcoming news and trailers from Beauty and the Beast. If the story and incredibly beautiful costuming for the live-action Cinderella (coming to theatres, March 13, 2015) is anything to go by, I can’t wait to see Belle’s costumes and the Beast’s suits. This Disney Addict and Entertainment Writer for Chipandco.com will be on the edge of her seat waiting for all the exciting new live action movies coming our way. I see a whole new era of top notch entertainment from Disney for the more mature Disney Addicts.

Based on the well loved story of Belle, there are plans to include most of the the Broadway stage songs from Alen Menken and Tim Rice. I know I will be singing in the theatre!

Follow me at Chip and Co. com for all the news, updates and exciting events coming our way and don’t miss all the Disneyland 60th anniversary celebrations.

Do you know everything about being a Disney Addict?

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 7, 2015

We all love You Might Be a Disney Addict Group or YMBADA. It gives us a place to go to and chat with our fellow Disney Addicts, to share our pictures, opinions, tips, show off our Disney finds and treasures! Its helpful from the Disney Addict members to it’s Admins. Chip & Co gives us the latest news and keeps us up to date. Disney Fashionista keep us trendy and presentable with the newest Disney looks. World of Magic Travel helps us get the best deals on our next Magical Vacation and my friends and I are happy to help planning your trip! But… Did you know there’s even more to YMBADA?

Disney has so much to offer, and some people love some things more than others.. so YMBADA has more than one group! If there is something specific you’re interested in, we probably have a group for it! Join it, and your fellow Disney Addicts who have the same love and passion that you do! Yes, we all love Disney, but with so many members in our main group, it’s easier to bond, relate and get helpful info on there areas of what you’re looking for in these groups. Some have been around, some are new. But either way check them out and join us!

YMBADA – Where it all started. Talk all things Disney!
YMBADA Cruisers – Not just Disney and for anyone interested, experienced or planning a cruise!
YMBADA Race Team – Calling all Runners! Interested in Marathons? We got you covered! And group rates for them too!
YMBADA Disney Gamers – Who’s been addicted to Tsum Tsum? Exchange Gamer tags and get extra lives!
YMBADA losing weight for Disney– I have seen some nifty ideas here! Every pound lost = spending money! Other tips, support and encouragement!
YMBADA Singles – A great group for meeting someone.

See, There is so much more to “You Might Be a Disney Addict..” We want to meet everyone’s needs. And giving you a group to talk about the things that interests you the most about Disney is just another way to help Disney Addicts. We all have a Disney Addiction.. Hope this can help until your next Disney trip or Disney Cruise!

If you need tips, tricks and help planning your next Magical Disney fix I would love to help you! My name Is Jamie and not only am I an Independent Travel Agent with World of Magic Travel, I’m a writer for Chip & Co I am a Disney Addict myself! Feel free to contact me at [email protected] or follow me here on Facebook!

Disney Finds – Disney Character Lego Collection

By

Chip

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March 7, 2015

Sweet Mother of Abraham Lincoln have you see this Disney Character Building Block Set ? Here is the product description…

DISCOVER LOZ MICRO BLOCKS • Great VALUE, an alternative to large, expensive building sets! • Great option for people who enjoy Legos and want to try something different. Great level of detail! Micro-sized building blocks make detailed models of buildings, bridges, animals, instruments, trucks, planes, space shuttles and more EDUCATIONAL TOOL • Micro Blocks help sharpen budding builders’ gross and fine motor skills, spatial awareness, and storytelling capabilities • Micro Blocks are complex puzzles that induce cognitive skills during play. They may lead to increased sustained attention, selective attention and divided attention QUALITY & SAFETY • Made from high-quality durable green material, micro blocks are flexible and won’t damage easily. • Micro blocks have non-toxic and non-corrosive particles, and their smooth surface is designed specifically for children. Rounded corners make them kid-safe Satisfaction is 100% GUARANTEED.

How cool is that? You get all 5 Disney Characters in one set for under $30! Just click hereto learn more and to order today!

Disneyland Memorabilia sells for $1.7 Million

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 7, 2015

A doll from “It’s a Small World”, a 1960s life-preserver from Mark Twain Riverboat and the original Frontierland cigar store indian were just a few of the many collectables now in the hands of new collectors. Visit the Van Eaton Galleries located at 13613 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 to enjoy Disney Artwork. The Galleries are open to the public Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 am to 6 pm.

Loretta Garcia, Entertainment Writer for chip and co.com invites you to Click here to view Van Eaton Galleries Disneyland catalog.

Snapshot of Upcoming Events at Walt Disney World

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 7, 2015

Spring is quickly approaching! Here is a “snapshot” of some awesome events coming up in March at the Walt Disney World Resort!

March 2 – 8: Artist Greg McCullough returns this month with special appearances and signings at Art of Disney in Downtown Disney Marketplace, March 2 – 8 and 18 – 22. Stop by and find a new piece of art to add to your collection!

March 4 – 8: Renowned international artist Larry Dotson is set to appear this month at Epcot. Find him, March 4 – 8 at Art of Disney and March 27 – 29 at Puffins Roost in the Norway Pavilion.

March 4 – May 17: Commemorative Epcot International Flower & Garden Merchandise will be in full bloom, beginning March 4! Visit the Festival Center, open Friday through Sunday, or the bridge kiosk at the entrance of World Showcase and find special treasures to help grow your collection. Tip: Check out special artist appearances and chef demonstrations as well as festival showcases.

March 6: Meet author and Major League Baseball Legend, Cal Ripken, Jr. Cal will be on hand for a special appearance and signing of his newest book Out at Home at Champion Stadium at ESPN Wide World of Sports during the 2nd inning of the Atlanta Braves Spring Training game. Please note, a game ticket is required to attend this signing.

March 6 – 7: Join us as we celebrate the opening of WonderGround Gallery at Marketplace Co-Op in Downtown Disney Marketplace. Take part in a special artist showcase and signing from 1 – 3:30 p.m. with Michael Lewis Glover and Jerrod Maruyama and 5 – 7:30 p.m. with Jasmine Becket-Griffith and Robert Jimenez.

March 8: Disney artist Jerrod Maruyama will be on hand for a signing of his Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival inspired piece Spring Has Sprung at the Festival Center from 11a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 – 2p.m.

March 12: Something ‘charm’ing awaits you from the Disney Parks Collection │PANDORA. What you ask? Keep watching, fellow author Steven Miller will have all the details.

March 13: Pick up a copy of Lee Cockerell’s newest book, Time Management Magic at Art of Disney in the Downtown Disney Marketplace. Watch DisneyParksMerchandise.com for more information regarding this event, including signing times.

March 13 – 15: Precious moments doll designer and artist Linda Rick will be on hand for special appearances and signings throughout the day at Heritage Manor at the American Adventure Pavilion in Epcot, as we celebrate the release of her Spring collection. Linda will also appear March 20 – 22. Not able to make it? No problem! Representatives from Precious Moments Dolls will be on hand March 12 – April 12 at Heritage Manor at the American Adventure Pavilion in Epcot and March 12 – April 27 at Once Upon A Toy in Downtown Disney Marketplace.

March 25 – 26: Are you a fan of Ridley Pearson? Be among the first to pick up two of his newest releases, Kingdom Keepers: The Return: Book 1: Disney Lands and The Syndrome: A Kingdom Keepers Adventure. Meet Ridley, March 25 from 4 – 6 p.m. at Once Upon A Toy at Downtown Disney Marketplace or March 26 from 9 – 11a.m. at Writer’s Stop in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Learn more. Tip: Wristbands will be distributed to Guests at store open on the day of the signing with each purchase of a book by Ridley Pearson. A wristband from the appearance location is required to meet Ridley Pearson and allows the guest to get two books signed. A limited number of wristbands will be available the day of the signing. Once the wristbands have been distributed, the line to meet Ridley Pearson will close.

March 27 – 29: Celebrate Art in the Garden with us and take part in special artist appearances and signings with David E. Doss and Greg McCullough from 11a.m. – 7p.m. throughout the weekend at the entrance to World Showcase. Watch DisneyParksMerchandise.com to learn more.

March 27 – April 5: We have ‘egg’-citing news.

March 28: Add the limited edition hand-painted Ink & Paint cel ‘A Dapper Day in the Parks’ featuring Mickey Mouse looking his best aboard the Main Street Trolley! Ink & Paint artists will be on hand for a special signing from 10 a.m. – 1p.m. and 2p.m. – 5p.m. at Animation Gallery in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Note: The cel will be available in a variety of formats including Unframed; Framed, Framed Cel with Postcard and Framed Cel with Postcard and Pin.

If you can’t make it there you can take advantage of a special pre-purchase opportunity now through March 26 at 5p.m. Eastern. Tax and shipping fees apply. Order now!

Which one are you looking forward too?

Photo credit: Disney Parks Blog

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Most of the Disney magic comes from the artists, authors, and just plan imagination that makes Disney what we know and love. If you need some Disney magic in your life and if you would like to attend one of these events, I would love to help. Contact me at [email protected] for your FREE no obligation quote.

Disney World to Introduce I.D. for Guests That Have Problems with Fingerprint Entry

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 6, 2015

Disney World is doing something about the people that have trouble getting into the park because the system fails to read their fingerprint properly.

This new program is currently being tested at Animal Kingdom. What will happen if a guest fails to pass the fingerprint test, so to speak, they will be directed to guest services where they will setup a photo I.D. They will show I.D. and verify that they are in fact who they say they are. Then a picture will be taken and it will be associated with the guests MDE account.

Once this all setup then a cast member at the entrance will be able to see a digital picture of the guest so they can identify them without the fingerprint scan and saving everyone a big headache in the future.

If the testing goes well then I imagine they will use this procedure in every park.

What do you think?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

I am Independent Travel Agent with World of Magic Travel Services. I would love to work my magic and help you plan an amazing vacation. I am an annual passholder for a few years now and I go as often as I can. I would love to share my tips and tricks with you. Contact me at [email protected] for your FREE no obligation quote.

Food Network to Air a Special On-Board the Disney Dream

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 6, 2015

Disney Cruise Line Logo

Food Network will take you on a magical behind-the-scenes look at the Disney Cruise Line in a one-hour primetime special on-board the Disney Dream. It will air Friday, March 27th at 8pm ET/PT.

There will be some of your favorite Food Network personalities like, Melissa d’Arabian (Guy’s Grocery Games), Amanda Freitag (Chopped), Katie Lee (The Kitchen) and Jeff Mauro (The Kitchen) have exclusive access and explore the inner workings on-board the Disney Dream cruise ship during the sun, fun and food-filled vacation experience with their family and friends.

Plus, join Melissa, Amanda, Katie and Jeff as they get a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship’s galleys where talented chefs from the Disney Dream prepare culinary delights for thousands of people every day.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

I know there are many Disney “Cruisers” out there. There are also many of you dreaming of embarking on your first Disney Cruise. Either way I can help you plan a magical adventure on a Disney Cruise ship. Many people think a Disney Cruise is out of their budget but you might be surprised. Contact me at [email protected] for your FREE no obligation quote, and let me work my magic for you!

Disney Store – Take up to 25% OFF your ENTIRE order!

By

Chip

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March 6, 2015

We have some great news! The Disney Store is having an online exclusive sale! This weekend you can take up to 25% off your purchase at Disney Store.com using offer code: BLOOM. To take advantage of this sale click Shop Now!

Disney Find- Chic Disney Cosplay Aprons

By

Danielle

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March 6, 2015

I am loving all the adorable handmade aprons out there, and these handmade cosplay Disney character inspired ones from AriaApparel on Etsy are too cute!

From the designer’s about page “Each is made of cotton or a cotton/polyester blend. The faces are ironed on and then expertly sewn onto the fabric. Our vision is for each apron to bring joy and pleasure to the wearers.” How fabulous is that? Cosplay aprons are great for showing off your Disneyside while entertaining, or even wearing over a dress as a costume!

Be sure to check out even more of their great designs:

BB-8
Jack
Sally
Ariel
Alice in Wonderland
Kylo-Ren
R2-D2
Darth Vader
Honey Lemon (I love this one, and you don’t see many Honey Lemon items!)
Baymax
The Incredibles
Rapunzel
Captain America
Anna Frozen Fever

If those aren’t enough choices, the designer will even do a character you love with an original and one of a kind design! Which character would you choose?

Happy Shopping!

2015 LEGOLAND Brick Dash 5K Run and Fun Walk

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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March 6, 2015

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Emmet and friends challenge you to an AWESOME race! The 2015 LEGOLAND Brick Dash 5K Run and Fun Walk is taking place Saturday April 11th, 2015 At LEGOLAND Florida Resort. This community- wide health event is designed for runners and walkers of all ages! Join Emmet from The LEGO® Movie and his friends at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort for a 5K run/walk that winds its way through LEGOLAND. The LEGOLAND Brick Dash 5K (formerly the Citrus Classic 5K) benefits the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation Fund for Women and Children.

Event details and schedule

Award Categories: 5K Awards presentation will immediately follow the completion of the race. Race categories include: Overall Male & Female Masters Male & Female Top 3 males and females in the following age groups: 10 & Under, 11-13, 14-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-35, 36-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70 & Older Important Event Details: All participants must be checked-in for the event at least 1 hour prior to start time. Race day registration begins at 5:30am at LEGOLAND Florida. Early race packet pick up will be available the week of the event. Registration packets may be picked up early in the MAIN LOBBY of the Winter Haven Women’s Hospital (101 Avenue O, S.E., Winter Haven, Florida). Early packet pick-up will be available during the following dates and times:

Tuesday, April 7th from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday, April 8th from 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Thursday, April 9th from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Friday, April 10th from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Any packets that are not collected during early packet pick-up will be available the morning of the race beginning at 5:00 a.m. All Brick Dash 5K registrations received by March 20th will guarantee the t-shirt size requested. Event parking will be free to all Brick Dash 5K participants at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort. Admission to the Brick Dash 5K does NOT include LEGOLAND® Florida Resort park admission for the day.

Click here for race registration.

Happy running and say ‘Hi’ to Emmet!