Disney’s Pete’s Dragon starts Production in New Zealand

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February 15, 2015

New Zealand is the location of Walt Disney Pictures’ remake of “Pete’s Dragon”. Disney has taken the 1977 classic and cast (pictured above) and revamped it blending live action with CGI to bring back a favorite with new faces. Pete’s Dragon is the story of Pete, an orphan who meets and becomes best friends with a green dragon named Elliott.

Producer Jim Whitaker shared how Pete’s Dragon “… is a story about how magic can enter one’s life and change the way they see the world..”

The remake is directed by David Lowery and produced by Jim Whitaker. Pete’s Dragon brings us Oakes Fegley in the lead role of Pete. The cast also includes Bryce Dallas Howard as park ranger, Grace; Wes Bentley as Jack, a local mill owner; Karl Urban as Jack’s brother, Gavin; Oona Laurence is Natalie, a friend of Pete’s and Oscar® winner Robert Redford as Grace’s father.

Production will begin shooting in Wellington then moves north to the area of Rotorua as well as the areas of Tapanui and Ivercargill.

Pete’s Dragon will be released in theatres August 2016. I can’t wait to see Elliott and the beautiful New Zealand landscape.

Loretta Garcia, Entertainment Writer for Chip and Co, bringing you the latest and greatest Disney news.

Disney Finds – Pirates of the Caribbean DVD Player

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Chip

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February 15, 2015

I am a huge fan of Pirates of the Caribbean. While shopping on Amazon I found this Pirates of the Caribbean DVD Player! I would have never guessed just by looking at it that it was a DVD player. One of the best things about this item is the price. It is only $26.44! How awesome is that? My only complaint is they need to make this into a Bluray player.

This item would go perfectly with Pirates of the Caribbean 4 Movie Set!, if you don’t have all the movies already. These items would make an excellent gift for your favorite Pirate.

For more information just click the links…

What do you think? Do you like this very unique DVD player?

Hong Kong Disneyland – New Offerings, Big Financial Returns

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Chip

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February 15, 2015

In its Annual Business Review, Hong Kong Disneyland reported 2014 as the fifth consecutive record-breaking year financially. 2014 also saw the park welcome its 50 millionth guest. This news, along with the additions of Mystic Point, Toy Story Land, and Grizzly Gulch, and the guest favorite entertainment, Disney Paint the Night has positioned Hong Kong Disneyland to welcome another exciting year.

What will guests see in 2016 and 2017?

2016 will see Hong Kong Disneyland’s Tomorrowland debuting the Iron Man Experience attraction.This expo-type attraction will display the various evolving Iron Man suits, as well as other Tony Stark innovations. Guests will meet Iron Man following an adventure over and through a Hong Kong filled with evil.

Disney Explorers Lodge, the third resort hotel at Hong Kong Disneyland, will open in early 2017. Designed to embody the adventure of exploration in the 1920s, including a Polynesian island, an African savannah, and a rainforest in South America, the 750 room hotel will also showcase the natural and exotic beauty of Asia.

But 2015 is not without its own excitement! Hong Kong Disneyland celebrates its 10th anniversary with surprises, additions, and enhancements, all set to help the park and resort become the premier Hong Kong vacation destination.

Do the changes and additions to Hong Kong Disneyland inspire you to want to travel there? Or just to travel to ANY Disney destination?

I’m Jeri and I’m a Disney Addict! I’m also an Independent Travel Agent with World of Magic Travel Services, the preferred agency of Chip and Co. and Disney Addicts. If you are beginning to have magical dreams about visiting Hong Kong Disneyland, or just having a Disney adventure of any type, I’d love to help take the burden out of planning. Contact me at [email protected].

New Direct to Room Arrival Option for Walt Disney World Resort Hotel Guests

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 15, 2015

Within the next several weeks if you are staying on property at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, you may have the option to go directly to your resort room when it’s ready, without stopping by the front desk. This is an optional service!

There are steps you must follow in order to be eligible for this option:

First you have to customize your MagicBands for your current stay and you must have them shipped to your home.
Second you must complete the Online Check-In process. Which includes paying for your reservation in full, or you have to put a credit card and PIN on file.
Choose your preferred method of communication, text or email.

Once you get your bands in the mail, you will get an email explaining the direct-to-room arrival service including eligibility and next steps you need to take.

If you have taken all the necessary steps, you will receive an email and/or text message before your arrival. It will let you know your room number and reminding you that you have the option to go directly to your room.

When you arrive you will be greeted by a Cast Member who will give you the option to go experience a traditional check-in, or go directly to their room once it is ready.

This new optional service will be rolled out in phases over the next several weeks.

What do you think?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

I am an Independent Travel Agent with World of Magic Travel Services. Are you missing some magic in your life? I can help you with that. Contact me for your FREE no obligation quote at [email protected].

Disney Quick Tip – Pack Ziploc Bags

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 14, 2015

A must have for any bag you pack to bring into the parks with you are Ziploc bags. These lightweight additions have the possibility to save you a ton of money and make life a lot easier.

Water rides, such as Splash Mountain or Kali River Rapids, and electronics, such as your new iPhone, camera, or chargers, do not mix! Before jumping on these rides, tuck these items into a resealable bag and save yourself the heartache of your brand new smartphone going for a swim. Additionally, if you tuck your sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and water bottle into a gallon size Ziploc bag, you will save yourself the hassle of having to rinse off or wring out the other items in your bag when of of these bottles leaks.

Ziploc bags can save you hundreds when it comes to your electronics, but they can also save you money while in the parks as well. Many snacks are too large to eat in one sitting, especially for children. Specialty apples and other snacks can be tucked into a resealable bag and saved for later. By throwing away less food, you will save money and save on your snack credits as well.

I also like to keep my trading pins and Vinylmations in a Ziploc so I can easily pull them out for a fast trade. This beats digging into the depths of my backpack to find that loose pin I want to get rid of.

So go ahead, be a super organizer and save yourself a ton of money and stress.

What are some items that you can’t head to the parks without? We would love to hear your tips in the comment box below!

Monica is an Alumni 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.

JC Penney’s new Cinderella merchandise is amazing.

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 14, 2015

JCPenney’s new Cinderella merchandise is what dreams are made of. Inspired by Disney’s new live action film coming to theatres, March 13, 2015, the special line of products will make every girl’s “fairy tale dream a reality.”

“The Cinderella story perfectly aligns with our ‘fit’ promise at JCPenney. It’s a story about the power of transformation, and how Cinderella found her inner confidence and self-esteem that enabled her true potential to emerge,” said Deb Berman, chief marketing officer for JCPenney. “Through our collaborative efforts with Disney around the release of ‘Cinderella,’ we have an opportunity to generate additional awareness of our Disney shops and exclusive merchandise, as well as reinforce how JCPenney fits life’s momentous occasions.”

JCPenney opened the Disney shop in October of 2013 with an extensive collection of costumes, children’s clothes and toys. Available in 565 stores and on line, JCPenney plans to add an additional 116 stores this year.

To celebrate the new Cinderella movie, JC Penney will have a special section with role-play dresses and accessories, plush toys, dolls, figurines and a tea set. Tee-shirts, PJs, a tulle dress and a special offer – (Feb 19 to April 15) spend $25 or more and receive a free re-usable Cinderella tote bag will have me spending my tax return at JCPenney next week. A special deluxe ball gown costume and set of make-believe “glass” slippers are at the top of my list for a special birthday girl.

As a Disney Addict, JCPenney has become one of the top stops when looking for Disney products to add to my collection of outfits or gifts for my grand kids.

Loretta Garcia, Entertaiment Writer for Chip and Co bringing you the latest and greatest Disney news.

Big Changes to Disney’s Animal Kingdom

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 14, 2015

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Disney’s Animal Kingdom is known more as a “Half-Day” Park. Disney thinks it’s time to change that perception. At the end of 2014, Camp Minnie and Mickey closed, and they are making way for some BIG Changes! The new land will be based off the movie Avatar. The land is expected to open in stages with completion in 2017. Once the transformation is complete, you can expect longer hours and more nighttime activities. Animal Kingdom’s future is looking bright. Here are some changes that should be happening as Animal Kingdoms expands.

Characters: Since Camp Minnie and Mickey closed, characters are spread throughout the park. Nothing has been officially released, but you can expect that there will be some unique character greetings in the new Avatar Land. This will more than likely be the only place you can find some of these special Meet and Greets.
Dining: While a statement hasn’t been released about the dining for the new land, a large rumor is that there will be at least one Quick Service Restaurant made to look like an Army mess hall, like the one from the movie itself.
Nighttime Safari: Disney has announced that there will be a nighttime safari ride coming soon. Date has not been released. Kilimanjaro Safari is a popular ride, cause you never know whats going to happen or what you will see. Every time is different. That is during the day, now you will be able to go around and see all the nocturnal animals.
Rivers of Light: One of the reasons Animal Kingdom is considered a half-day park is it’s lack of nightly entertainment. That is all about to change. Rivers of Light is going to be a night time show on and around Discovery River. It will feature live music, water screens, floating lanterns, and more. A highlight is expected to be the illumination of the Tree of Life, which is having all of its leaves replaced for the new production. Rivers of Life is expected to open sometime in the spring of 2016.
Rides: A new land needs rides, and two have been announced by Disney. The first is a Avatar based dark boat ride. It will be a family friendly attraction, and will take guests into the jungles of Pandora at night. It is expected that the indoor ride will use plenty of audio-animatronics so that guests will feel like that are traveling through the movie. The attraction that has everyone excited is the other new ride that will be in Avatar Land. Guests will hop onto a mountain banshee and take a trip over Pandora. While the ride will most likely use IMAX screens, don’t compare it to Soarin’. The ride might also use 3D to make it more realistic. It’s supposed to be unlike any other ride on the planet, so expectations are already high.

So get ready for a whole new Animal Kingdom! Pretty soon you maybe have to add another day to your trip so you can fit it all in.

My name is Jamie. If you need tips, tricks or help planning and booking your next dream vacation, I would love to help you! I’m a writer for Chip & Co and DisneyAddicts and I’m an Independent Travel Agent with World of Magic Travel their preferred travel agency. Feel free to contact me at [email protected] or follow me on Facebook!

myLINGO joins Disney in providing Spanish Audio for McFarland USA

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 13, 2015

Walt Disney Studios and myLINGO, my favorite smartphone app, have teamed up to bring moviegoers a whole new experience. The ability to watch a movie in their language through the use of personal headphones will have many heading to their nearest theatre. In the case of Disney’s newest release, McFarland USA, myLINGO is providing the opportunity for moviegoers to enjoy the film in Spanish starting, February 20, 2015.

“We are delighted to bring the magical world of Disney films to a broader group of Spanish-speaking viewers and multicultural families at select theatres with this new technology,” said Paul Holliman, Vice President, Strategic Planning at Walt Disney Studios. “myLINGO provides a rich and customized cinematic experience, where bilingual families and friends can share the same emotion, laughter and excitement together in a whole new way.”

At this point, I’m asking myself – How does this even work? Apparently it simple. The myLINGO app uses the microphone on our smartphones to “listen” to the audio, once the movie has begun. The app, through a proprietary algorithm, matches the unique audio signature to its precise place in the movie, and plays back the alternate language audio through headphones in perfect sync with the film. Once the movie is over the file will self-destruct – I mean, self delete itself from the app. And the audio file will only play if it “hears” the movie. Can you believe all this modern technology?

Want to try it out? Just follow these three easy steps and you are all set:

1. Download the myLINGO app for free from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

2. Before going to the theater, choose the Spanish audio file for McFarland USA and download it – either at home, or someplace with a strong Wi-Fi signal.

3. Be sure to bring your smartphone and good earphones that seal the ear canal.

Best of all as an introduction to myLINGO, the Spanish audio track for “McFarland, USA” will be available for FREE via a promotional code during the opening weekend, February 20 – 22. After the 22nd, moviegoers can access the app for a very reasonable price of just $1.99.

I can’t wait to try it out. Looks like I will be enjoying McFarland USA again on opening weekend. Have you reserved your tickets yet?

McFarland USA is the story of coach, Jim White (Kevin Costner) and a group of high schoolers from the town of McFarland in California, who through hard work, determination and strong family values go the distance to become champions.

Loretta Garcia, Entertainment Writer for Chip and Co bringing you the latest and greatest Disney news and updates.

Disney’s All Star Sports Resort hits it out of the park

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 13, 2015

It’s no secret that I love getting a good deal and I am always hunting for a bargain, especially when it comes to Disney! On my most recent trip to WDW I stayed at the All Star Sports resort and found not only a great value, but a great themed resort as well. Here is why I think All Star Sports should be included in your resort roster.

Theming: This resort is a must-stay for any Disney sports fan! Larger than life icons really make you feel a part of the game. Giant football helmets, tennis rackets, and surf boards are scattered throughout the property and incorporate your favorite Disney characters to make it all that much more magical. Even if you are not the biggest sports fan out there (believe me, I am not someone you would describe as “sporty”) it’s hard to resist the appeal of Donald Duck playing tennis with his nephews, or Goofy lifeguarding at one of the pools.

Easy on the eyes, Easy on the wallet: All Star Sports is one of Disney’s value resorts. This means, you get the quality that you come to expect with a Disney resort, but not the huge price tag. All the three All Star resorts on property, All Star Sports tends to have smaller crowds than All Star Movies or All Star Music. And from frequently checking resort prices (because that’s what I do in my spare time), I can tell you that All Star Sports is often a little less expensive than the other All Star Resorts. There really is no loser here!

Still lots to do and see: I like staying at value resorts for more than just the obvious reason of significant savings. I usually only see my resort when I first open my eyes in the morning, and right before I close them at night. My days are spent exploring the parks and getting in as many rides on Space Mountain as I can. I don’t want to spend a lot of money on amenities that I won’t be using. With that being said, there is still a ton of activities to do at All Star Sports if you are planning on spending some time away from the parks. The resort features two pools: Surfboard Bay Pool and Grand Slam Pool. Each night there is a movie under the stars that the whole family can enjoy. If you are traveling with children, you can check out the resort’s playground which is located in a nice shady area, close to the pool. In the mood to shop? Look to further than Sport Goofy, the resort gift shop where you can find anything from beach towels, to vinylmations, to ibuprofen.

Food and drink: All Star Sports has its own food court, End Zone, which offers an array of different choices for everyone. You can also feel free to check out the food courts at All Star Movies or Music if you would like as well. All Star Sports takes part in the refillable mug program, and for those in your party over 21, Team Spirits Pool Bar is a great place to relax and enjoy a cold drink after a long day.

Transportation: All of the All Star resorts are on the Disney bus route and will take you to any park. The bonus of staying at All Star Sports is that you are the first to be picked up in the morning (you can claim those choice seats before it starts to fill up with other guests), and the first to be dropped off at the end of your day. Spend less time getting to where you’re going, and spend more time enjoying yourself!

Whether you are a diehard sports fan, a sideline cheerleader, or just something looking for a great deal, I would definitely suggest taking a look at All Star Sports Resort for you next Disney vacation.

Where do you like to stay when you are on property? Do you have a preference between All Star Sports, Music, or Movies? Let me know in the comment box below!

Monica is an Alumni 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.

New runDisney Shoe For Princess 1/2 Marathon Weekend!

By

Chip

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February 13, 2015

The new limited-edition 860v5 Retro Mickey and Retro Minnie shoes will be available for the first time during the Princess Half Marathon weekend’s runDisney Health and Fitness Expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex the weekend of February 19th. They will be available for retail price of $135.00 for both Men and Women. (White for Women & Black/Silver for Men)

New Balance will also have a limited number of the Retro Mickey and Retro Minnie 990v3 shoes available for purchase during the Princess Half Marathon. They will be available for retail price of $180.00 for both Men and Women. (Grey for Women & Black for Men)

The shoes will only be available at Health and Fitness Expos during the runDisney event weekend. To minimize waiting in line for shoes, New Balance has created a virtual queue to let you know when it’s your turn to be fitted and make your purchase. Starting on Thursday, February 19, starting at 6 a.m. runners can sign up at NBvirtualqueue.com using their bib number. Non-runners can sign up daily, pending inventory.

Below is some additional info on each of the runDisney shoes!

The 860v5 is an update to 860v4. Reliable and desirable. Stable and soft. The 860v5 is the smart choice for the stability you need and the comfort and style you want to conquer your runs. The 860v5 running shoe uses a system of technologies that work together to help guide your foot as you run. It’s the smart choice for the stability you need and the comfort and style you want with a retail price of $135.
The 990v3 is a classic model that offers quality craftsmanship using premium materials. The 990 series celebrates the heritage of New Balance running and the 990v3 features a classic design with universal appeal. With quality materials such as premium leather, mesh inserts for breathability and a stability system to support running, walking or anything in between the 990v3 exudes timeless style. The New Balance runDisney 990v3 draws design inspiration from Seamboat Willie with a Retro Mickey design for men and Retro Minnie for women, with the retail price of $180.00.

Disney Finds – St. Patrick’s Day Mickey

By

Chip

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February 13, 2015

Mickey Mouse Plush - St. Patrick's Day - Small - 9''

With Valentine’s Day almost here, St Patrick’s is coming up next month! I like to transition my Disney decor to reflect the various holidays. I am always on the look out for fun St Paddy’s Day Disney items. I was checking the Disney Store while they had their Friends and Family Sale and found a few items I wouldn’t mind adding to my Disney Collection!

St. Patrick’s Day Mickey Mouse Plush – You can catch this lucky leprechaun-sized Mickey Mouse Plush for your own collection and he’ll be obliged to grant your fondest wish — or at least a soft hug or three! This styling Mickey is only $16.95 and you can order him here.

So what do you think of St. Patrick’s Day Mickey Mouse Plush? Will you be adding him to your Disney collection? Let us know in the comment box below!

Don’t forget to enter our Disney Store Friends and Family Giveaway!

Angelina Jolie rumored to be named Director for Capt. Marvel

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 13, 2015

Rumors are popping up about Disney Executives offering Angelina Jolie a few million ($20) to direct the upcoming Marvel film – Capt Marvel. With a female lead role, a female director would bring Capt. Marvel to the top as a huge hit with old and new fans. According to the rumors, Jolie is said to be thrilled at this possibility. If the rumors are true, Angelina Jolie, who’s movie include “Maleficient,” “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider”, and “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” to name a few, will take her on-screen experiences behind the camera and give us the strong, confident, female character in Capt. Marvel .

Capt. Marvel is Marvel Studios, upcoming new story. Kevin Feige, announced it at the Marvel event held at El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, last year, but little is known about the plot since we still have 3 years to wait for it’s theatrical debut.

Keep updated with all the Marvel and Disney Entertainment news, on Chip and Company. Loretta Garcia, Entertainment Writer with the latest and greatest Disney news.