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Top 5 FREE Educational Disney Apps for Kids

November 5, 2014

When I am wearing my Super Duper Library Lady cape during the day, I spend a lot of time looking at apps that are educational but still fun. Fun is important to kids. Education is important to parents and teachers. Both are important to super, duper library ladies. Disney, of course, offers a lot of great apps kids that are both. No surprise there. It’s Disney!! So, I’ve put together my top 5 list of what Disney has to offer that is educational, fun, and free.

Now for a couple of disclaimers. All of these app are FREE. However, they do offer in-app purchases. The app can still be enjoyed using only what comes free, but just know it can be even more fun with some of the extras. All links lead to iTunes. As far as I have been able to find, these apps are not available on Android. If you find them for Android, let me know. Also, I am in no way being compensated for these opinions. These opinions belong to me and are based on my experiences as a mom and a library lady. No one paid me or gave me free stuff…although, wouldn’t it be cool if they did?

1. Disney Storytime – Good for ages 2 to 10.

This is an awesome book app featuring many of the Disney characters we all know and love. It comes ready with three free Disney digital books. The narration of the books is very well done, and the stories feature cool sound effects and surprises in the pictures. Each book has the option to have it read aloud or allow the reader to read it without narration. Even without narration, the story still has the music and picture effects. I like this app so much because parents or kids can even record their OWN voices reading the story and play it back. That makes this app great for reading alone, reading together, and reading out loud to practice reading fluency. Other books can be purchased through the parent feature. Parents pay for credits, and the kiddos can use the credits to buy the books they want. Each book costs 1 credit. Credits range from $3.99 for 2 to $39.99 for 37 credits which purchases every book..

2. Disney Classics Collection – Good for ages 2-8.

This app is similar to the Storytime app in that it offers Disney digital books, but with a few key differences. This app is geared for a young audience. First, only a few different stories are offered. The app comes with access to Dumbo. The other stories are Snow White, Bambi, and Aristocats, and are $1.99 each or $3.99 for all 3. You get the narrated story, a puzzle (with 3 levels of difficulty), a calliope, and 7 different color sheets. The narration cannot be turned off, but each word lights up as the narrator speaks. This helps kids understand “one to one” (one word, one sound). The stories include great background music, animation, and sound effects. This app is a great read to me app for the little bitties. It integrates reading and play, and let’s face it, a child can’t have too much fun learning!

3. Disney Puzzle Pack – Good for ages 2-10

This is exactly what the title says. It’s a pack of different puzzles featuring one of 7 different Disney characters. Puzzles include word jumbles, memory matching, traditional jigsaw puzzles, find mes’, spot the differences, and word searches. Kids dig puzzles. Within each puzzle players can select 3 different levels of play. Level 1 for the little ones and level 3 for the big kids. For free you get all 3 levels of 1 puzzle for each character (i.e. Tinkerbell is a jigsaw puzzle). Puzzles help build critical thinking and reasoning skills, and this app provides a way for smaller children to work their way up through progressively harder skills. Parents can unlock packs of puzzles for $1.99 or all the puzzles for $9.99. Each pack comes with 6 jigsaws, 6 words searches, 6 spot the differences, 30+ word jumbles, a matching game, and a find me.

4. Disney Creativity Studio – Good for everybody. Even grown ups

This app just rocks. Actually, rocks doesn’t even begin to describe it. I’m not sure there is a word for it’s awesomeness. It’s not number 1 because to be a legit library lady I feel like I need to make the book stuff number 1, and books and reading totally deserve to be number one, but the coolness of this app is just off the charts!!!!! There’s so much to do and all of it is fun and educational! Dot to dots (numerical order), tracing, coloring, and learn to draws, free draw…the creative opportunities are endless. Those are the favs in my house. Kids can follow the direction (super important skill) and draw some really detailed Disney characters like Mickey, Minnie, Princesses, Monsters Inc., Jake, Sofia, Doc McStuffins…all by themselves, either on the device or on paper. There are even videos from real Disney animators that teach some of the learn to draws. The app also features different types of art tools for kids to work with (pencil, marker, crayon, paint, spray paint) so they can make different designs and even add things like shading to their creations. The app allows creations to be emailed or saved to a portfolio. There’s tons of stuff to do for free. If you want to buy the whole shebang, and if you are like me, you probably will, mostly for yourself. It will cost you $0.99 for each character pack and $1.99 for all the extra art tools.

5. Princess Story Theater – Ages 4-10

This app allows the user to create their very own fairy tale story. In the free version, Belle is the only princess available to use to make a story. Kids can stay very busy making stories with Belle for a very long time. However, additional princesses and story elements can be unlocked for $1.99 each, or $9.99 for all. The app needs access to the microphone on your device so the user can create a story by recording their very own adventure for the princess they have chosen. They can choose the setting, the position of the characters, and other special surprises. This app offers two different ways to create a story…guided creation. During guided creation, a narrator guides the user through each step of the story making process. In free play, the user is completely in charge. At the end of either types of story making, the user gets to name their story and and save it to the device’s camera roll for future viewing or sharing. I love this app because it teaches kids so much about story elements like character, setting, and how stories have

I could go on and on about my favorite Disney apps. The first five are just a small sampling of what Disney has to offer. There are so many to choose from that do so many great things for kids. Go and enjoy these. I’ll be back with more.

This Years Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom Card to be Released at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

November 5, 2014

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, this years Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom card is Elsa!! Now I am even more excited to attend this years party. Keep in mind that this is an event only card. If you are lucky enough to get this card you will be able to harness her powers known as “Elsa’s Icy Shield” in the game.

F.Y.I. The first party of the year is November 7, 2015. However this night is already sold out!

Remember to stop by the Firehouse on Main Street to get your FREE card. The “Elsa’s Icy Shield” card will be be given out as well as other Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom card packs.

You must show your party ticket/wristband in order to get your card.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

New Disney App “Big Hero 6: Baymax Blast” available

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

November 4, 2014

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New Disney App “Big Hero 6: Baymax Blast” is now available. Based on the newest Disney character from the upcoming movie “Big Hero 6”. Baymax Blast is the app that will have fans immersing themselves into the streets of San Fransokyo with Hiro, Baymax and the rest of the friends as they search for Hiro’s stolen microbots. Players will be able to “suit up, smash through barriers and around deadly obstacles as they sail through San Fransokyo, while unlocking movie video clips, character backgrounds and art from the upcoming Disney “Big Hero 6” movie.

“Big Hero 6” coming to theatres November 7, 2014 is an action-packed comedy-adventure about the special bond between Baymax (voice of Scott Adsit), a plus-sized inflatable robot, and prodigy Hiro Hamada (voice of Ryan Potter). When a catastrophe occurs in the personal life of Hiro Hamada and causes chaos in the city of San Fransokyo, Hiro turns to Baymax and his close friends adrenaline junkie GoGo Tomago (voice of Jamie Chung), neatnik Wasabi (voice of Damon Wayans Jr.), chemistry whiz Honey Lemon (voice of Genesis Rodriguez) and fanboy Fred (voice of T.J. Miller) and transforms them into a band of high-tech heroes called “Big Hero 6.” Inspired by the Marvel comics “Big Hero 6” is directed by Don Hall and produced by Roy Conli.

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My name is Loretta Garcia and I am the Entertainment Writer for Chip and company. Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated with all the news, promotions and Disney magic from Chipandco.com.

Disney’s Beach Club Resort Refurbishment Update

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

November 4, 2014

We recently let you know of a multi-year refurbishment planned for Disney’s Beach Club Resort that is already underway. The project is expected to take 20 months – finishing up in May 2016. The theme of the resort will be remaining the same with this renovation bringing a fresh and modern look to the resort.

At the time it was announced, not much information was known regarding the timeline of the refurbishment. Information has slowly been released regarding the dates certain areas of the resort will undergo remodeling.

Guest Room Renovations will take place from 10/13/2014 to 8/22/2015
Stormalong Bay (Waterslide and Bridge 1) will be under construction from 1/5/2015 to 2/2/2015
Stormalong Bay (Lazy River and Bridges 3 &4) will be closed for refurbishments from 2/2/2015 to 3/3/2015

Obviously these refurbishments may play a role in your choosing to stay at Disney’s Beach Club Resort so we will do our best to keep you up to date as Disney releases more information regarding closings to the hotel.

My name is Alissa and I am a Writer for Chip and Company. I’m also an Independent Travel Consultant with World of Magic Travel, the preferred agency used by Chip and the Disney Addicts. Email me today at [email protected] to book your next “Magical” vacation to your favorite destination.

Universal Orlando has an Amazing 72 Hour Sale

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

November 4, 2014

I know we all love Disney but Universal Orlando has some pretty cool attractions too. If you are a Harry Potter fan I recommend seeing Hogwarts at least once in your life!

You can book this offer November 4 through Thursday, November 6, 2014.

For just $119 per adult, per night, you get admission to both Universal Orlando theme parks and a stay at Universal’s Cabana Beach Resort and you will get both of these amazing offers:

FreeFamily Suite Upgrade (a $66/night value)
2 freeTickets to see Blue Man Group! ($140 Value)

Travel dates are as follows:

November 4-25 2014

November 29-December 24 2014

January 4-February 12 2014

Resort stay is a minimum 3-night stay, Sun–Thurs only, at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort. Must be booked during offer period, November 4–6, 2014. New bookings only. No Cancellations/Refunds. Must pre-pay. Hotel stay and Blue Man Group show for Sun–Thurs night only. Not valid for weekends and holidays. Blockout dates apply Dec 25, 2014–Jan 3, 2015.

Theme park admission is a 2-Day Park-to-Park Ticket with a 3rd Day FREE. Regular cost per ticket: $175.99 Adult/$165.99 Child. Blockout dates apply Dec 26, 2014–Jan 3, 2015.

To book this contact me at [email protected]. I am with World of Magic Travel, the only Chip and Co and YMBADA approved Travel Agency. I look forward to making your vacation magical!

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Save Up To 50% with Atlantis, Paradise Island’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday Sale

Chip

November 4, 2014

Atlantis, Paradise Island is heading into the holiday season armed with the gift of travel! The world-renowned family vacation destination is giving travelers another year of not having to wait in line for the best Black Friday deals. From November 28-December 1, Atlantis encourages travelers to take advantage of up to 50% in savings*, plus extra dining deal perks.

Launching on Black Friday, this once-a-year special offer is for travel beginning as soon as December 1, 2014. The four-day sale caters to travel from December 1, 2014 through March 31, 2015 (blackout rates apply), and gets even better with unbeatable add-ons.

Travelers can add dining perks to their already-massive savings Black Friday reservations, too! Kids under age 12 can eat both breakfast and dinner free, with the purchase of a meal plan when booking through Atlantis. With 21 restaurants and 19 bars and lounges featuring fine dining and quick-and-easy favorites, Atlantis offers endless options for the whole family.

This year, all you need to do is stay on your couch to find the best Black Friday deal for your next vacation at the most unique and awe-inspiring destination. With can’t-miss savings and added benefits, Atlantis is the ultimate vacation destination for ultimate family fun and adventures fit for everyone.

2014-2015 Black Friday/Cyber Monday Travel Details

Savings of up to 50% on nightly rates*
Kids under 12 eat breakfast and dinner free, with the purchase of an adult meal plan**
Travel between December 1, 2014 – March 31, 2015
Booking window: November 28 – December 2, 2014
Blackout dates: December 18, 2014 – January 2, 2015

Atlantis’ Black Friday and Cyber Monday travel deal can only be taking advantage of when booking withAtlantis directly by calling 1-800-Atlantis or visiting atlantisbahamas.com.

*Rate is non-refundable, per night, dbl occ., based on travel in the Beach Tower Terr. promo. Offer valid for new bookings only must be booked by 12/2/14. 2 night min. stay required. Travel begins 12/1/14 through 3/31/15. Add mandatory taxes, mandatory housekeeping grats., utility svc. fees & svc charges. Blackout dates apply. Other categories and dates available at higher rates. All rates, availability and offers are subject to change w/o notice and are not combinable with any other offer other than those listed below. Not app. to groups & restrictions apply.

Black-out dates apply and are as follows: December 18, 2014 – January 1, 2015.

**Kids Eat Free Offer (not combinable with a meal plan) applies to children 11 years and younger. This offer is valid for new bookings made by 8/19/14. For travel 8/14/14 – 8/27/14 (the “validity period”). Offer applies only for stays that begin and end within the validity period. Includes breakfast and dinner only. Inclusive of the mandatory 15% .Gratuity on the value of food and beverages consumed. Kids must order from the kids menu at participating restaurants and must dine with their parents. Expires on checkout and no credit will be issued for unused components or if kids do not dine at restaurants included or order from an adult menu. No cash value. Non-transferable. 2 night minimum stay required. Please check restaurant operating hours for availability as some establishments may not be open every day. Not applicable to groups and not combinable with the purchase of an Atlantis dining plan. It is combinable with with the Wine & Dine Pass and Air Credit. Not combinable with any other promotions except those listed above. Valid on new bookings only. This offer is valid at Seagrapes, Murray’s Delicatessen, Virgil’s BBQ, Marketplace, Casa D’Angelo, Chop Stix, Marina Pizzeria, Bimini Road, Olives, Bahamian Club, Seafire Steakhouse, Café Martinique and Mosaic. Also valid at Platos, Voyagers (Beach Tower), Coral Towers Lobby Lounge, Starbucks (at The Reef and Coral Towers) and The Pointe Restaurant & Bar. Dinner may not be redeemed at Nobu, Mesa Grill, Starbucks, Clubhouse, Carmine’s, Johnny Rockets, Ben & Jerry’s, Quiznos, Cain at The Cove, Mini Bars or Room Service. Sports drinks, bottled water and canned or bottled beverages are not included. Kids Eat Free begins with dinner on the day of arrival and ends with breakfast on the day of departure. All guests staying in the same room must dine together. Not applicable to groups and restrictions apply.

Disney World at Christmas – The Low Down

Catie

November 4, 2014

Are you thinking of heading to Walt Disney World to celebrate the Christmas holiday? I HIGHLY recommend it – as it doesn’t get much more magical than Disney at Christmas! As with every time of year, there are pros and cons to traveling to WDW during this holiday season – but as long as you do a bit of planning and preparing, you will definitely be glad you made the decision to spend Christmas with the Mouse! Ok, so let’s get down to it – what Disney World is REALLY like at Christmas time:

The Good: Let’s start with how beautiful it is at Christmas time – the décor has to be seen to be believed – seriously, they go all out! GIANT Christmas trees at every Park, wreaths and lights and Mickey shaped baubles at every turn, and Christmas tunes fill the air. You can visit life size gingerbread displays at several of the Disney Resorts that are truly works of art, and while you may not be able to eat the displays – there’s plenty of other treats to be had! Mickey gingerbread cookies, peppermint fudge, hot chocolate, Christmas cookies, special holiday meals, Christmas colored sprinkles and frostings everywhere…seriously, it’s a foodie paradise. There are also some special celebrations you can take part in – like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom – which is an additional cost, but is a pretty awesome event – an evening at the Magic Kingdom with a special Christmas parade, free cookies and cocoa, and SNOW too! Another favorite is the Osbourne Spectacle of Dancing Lights over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – it’s a HUGE display of millions of twinkling Christmas lights that move and sparkle in time to classic Christmas songs. Epcot does a Candlelight Processional, where celebrity guests re-tell the Christmas Story with a beautiful choral accompaniment. The festivities really make the holiday come alive in new and exciting ways – and it’s really a magical experience for those of all ages!

The Bad: Ok, so all that magic has to come at a price right? Well, unfortunately – it’s a higher price – as Christmas is considered a “peak” season for WDW – which means the Resort prices are higher (but worth it in my opinion!). Of course “peak” season also means crowds – lots of them – seriously. It’s intense – and for someone who has never been to WDW or has only been during a ‘slow’ time, it can be really overwhelming! And no matter how much you plan and prepare, the crowds may get the best of you (happens to all of us, unfortunately!)

The Ugly: The crowds only get worse as the holiday approaches – we’re talking more than a 2 hour wait for Space Mountain, wall to wall people during parade time, long lines for food…its bad. My recommendation is that if you’re going to go the week of Christmas, use the days before the holiday to your advantage when the crowds might be (slightly) lighter – ride your “must do” rides during those days, and then during Christmas you can take a more leisurely approach – enjoy the decorations, do some shopping, and hopefully avoid waiting several hours for one attraction! Another consideration that can be hard to swallow is the travel aspect – flights are more expensive, airports are more crowded, and for us Northerners, snow can really mess up our travel plans with delayed flights, canceled and overbooked flights, etc

Ok – so we talked about the good, bad and the ugly when it comes to Disney at Christmas time – and after all that, I have to say – I have done it twice and would do it again in a heartbeat. No matter how late my plane is, or how many people elbow me while I’m in line for a Dole Whip, or how many times I have to stand on the bus back to my Resort – it’s all worth it, as being Disney for Christmas just makes the “Most Wonderful Time Of The Year” even MORE wonderful!

So This is Love: Top 20 Disney Love Songs

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

November 3, 2014

Disney has built an empire by telling tales of love. Though there are many Disney love songs, there are some so great they actually enhance the story Disney is trying to tell. These are my personal favorite 20 Disney love songs.

1. “Beauty and the Beast” sung by Angela Lansbury from Beauty and the Beast.

There are two versions of this song, like most songs Disney intends for marketing on mainstream radio, but this version is my choice. A very personal song penned by the songwriting duo Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, arguably the best Disney songwriters since the Sherman Brothers, this version shows a mother teaching her child what true love really is: two people meant to be, both having gone through their own struggles, and slowly finding what they truly need is each other.

2. “Kiss the Girl” sung by Samuel E. Wright from The Little Mermaid

Another Menken and Ashman hit, “Kiss the Girl” is on every list of Disney love songs. Anyone who listens to this song can totally relate to 16-year-old Ariel and 18-year-old Eric and the fear and anticipation of that “first move.” No love story ever begins without someone gaining the courage to take that first step.

3. “A Whole New World” sung by Brad Kane and Lea Salonga from Aladdin

After the tragic passing of Howard Ashmen, Alan Menken went on to pen this song with Tim Rice. Though from totally different social classes, two people come together to show love truly conquers all.

4. “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” sung by Elton John from The Lion King

Elton John, one of the greatest songwriters of all-time, writes and sings this classic Disney song. Looking deeper in the lyrics, Elton John sings about how even the strongest person can be afraid, but knowing the one they love believes in them is all it takes to overcome any obstacle.

5. “Le Festin” sung by Camille from Ratatouille

Sadly, most don’t even realize this is a love song because it’s sung in French. Furthermore, most people don’t realize it explains the movie with much more emotional depth — Listen a little more closely to “Frozen Heart” on the Frozen soundtrack for another example of this. Remy’s whole philosophy is food isn’t just something you put in your mouth; it’s love, and making a meal is showing love for those you cook for… and it’s earned, not taken.

“Dreams are to lovers as wine is to friends
Carried through lifetimes, (and) spilled now and then
I am driven by hunger, so saddened to be
Thieving in darkness; I know you’re not pleased
But nothing worth eating is free”

6. “I’m Wishing/One Song” sung by Adriana Caselotti from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Though I will always question The Prince’s high creepy factor in this movie, you can’t have any list of Disney love songs without Disney’s first love song.

7. “If I Never Knew You” sung by Jon Secada and Shanice from Pocahontas

This song was originally sung by Mel Gibson and Judy Kuhn, but was cut from the original theatrical version. It was later sung by Jon Secada and Shanice for the end credits, and the original version was added in the re-release as an optional viewing option. “If I Never Knew You” demonstrates that not every Disney love story ends happily ever after, but it’s always better to have loved and lost than to have never loved at all.

8. “Love” sung by Nancy Adams from Robin Hood

One of the most underrated Disney love songs, “Love” gives a little more back-story to Robin Hood and Maid Marian. They have loved each other since they were children, and though events in their lives tore them apart, their love never faltered.

9. “So This is Love” sung by Ilene Woods from Cinderella

When you look a little more into this song, you realize it’s actually heartbreaking. Cinderella lost her father at such a young age and was raised by the cruel hand of her step-family. Though she always put on a happy face, you see in these lyrics how unhappy she truly was. She never knew what it was liked to be loved and cherished… until now.

10. “Candle in the Water” sung by Helen Reddy from Pete’s Dragon

Another under-appreciated Disney love song, this song is from the live action classic, Pete’s Dragon. No matter how many people have given up hope of Paul’s return, Nora always believes he will come home safe. You never give up on the ones you love.

11. “Once Upon a Dream” sung by Lana Del Ray from Maleficent

They’re the same lyrics from the original Sleeping Beauty, but the way in which this song is sung gives it a totally different meaning. In Lana Del Ray’s version, the heroine is haunted by love rather than enraptured by it, which fits perfectly into the whole storyline of Maleficent.

12. “I Won’t Say I’m in Love” by Susan Egan, Cheryl Freeman, LaChanze, Vaneese Thomas, and Lillias White

Hercules: Are you a damsel in distress?

Meg: I’m a damsel. I’m in distress. I can handle this. Have a nice day.

I love Meg’s character in Hercules. Though the movie didn’t succeed as well as some of its predecessors, Meg (as well as Pocahontas) shows the start of the shift in how Disney women are typically portrayed. And in typical Meg fashion, she doesn’t want to admit that she’s falling for Hercules, but resistance is futile.

13. “That’s How You Know” sung by Amy Adams from Enchanted

Enchanted — the Disney movie that totally wasted the power house musical talent that is Idina Menzel– brings us this song about how no matter how old fashion one feels gestures of love to be, love needs to be shown and felt… or perhaps sung with a giant dance number with hundreds of dancing and singing extras. Bonus about this song: the entire number, filmed in New York’s Central Park, is chock-full of Disney Easter eggs.

14. “Never Knew I Needed” sung by Ne-Yo from The Princess and the Frog

I don’t feel this song really added more to the movie than additional marketing ability. But with that said, I just really like it.

15. “Paperman” by Christophe Beck from the Disney Animated Short: Paperman

Some love songs don’t need words. This is definitely the case with Beck’s “Paperman.” This is my personal favorite Disney short, and you can feel every emotion just by listening to the music. The animation for this short was beautiful, but the music was meant to be the real storyteller.

16. “Married Life” by Michael Giacchino from Up

I could not list “Paperman” without including “Married Life.” Disney was able to tell the tale of one of its best love stories with only this song. You are giggling with Carl and Ellie at the beginning, but crying for Carl’s loss by the end of it. It’s the most emotional five minutes you’ll ever experience.

17. “Love is an Open Door” by Kristen Bell & Santino Fontana from Frozen

Sometimes love is being naive, as Ana soon finds about her “true love,” Hans.

18. “I See The Light” by Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi from Tangled

Indina Menzel and Kristen Bell both auditioned for the voice of Rapunzel, but I’m so happy they chose to save them for the future production of Frozen and chose to cast Mandy Moore instead. Mandy Moore gives such youthful innocence to this song, and it really helps show how Rapunzel is coming of age and learning what real love is. I don’t see it so much as romantic love, but rather love is sacrifice and devotion. No matter what form it takes, those you love will always help you fulfill your dreams.

19. “Where is Your Heart At” by Jamie Cullum from Meet the Robinsons

The only song most people remember from this movie is Rob Thomas’ “Little Wonders.” However, most don’t appreciate what an awesome Jazz talent Disney hired in Jamie Cullum for the lead singing voice of Franny’s band of musical frogs. I am a bit biased when it comes to this song because I am a HUGE Jamie Cullum fan. However, this song still belongs on the list because what is love without the thrill of the chase?

20. “Almost Home” sung by Mariah Carey from Oz the Great and Powerful

Some may totally disagree with me on this one, but my final song is very personal. My husband is in the Army, and this song came out during his last deployment. He is my happily-ever-after, and this song got us through when our spirits were low… that and our planned Disneyland trip when he returned.

Okay, let me hear from you! What do you think? Do you have any to add? Click here to listen to this list and a few that almost made the cut on Chip & Co’s Spotify channel!

The Clone Wars Lost Missions- Blu-Ray Review

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

November 3, 2014

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Star Wars The Clone Wars was an innovative 3D animation TV Show that aired on Cartoon Network. The show was cancelled in 2013 after 5 successful and hugely emotional seasons. The Clone Wars brought movie quality Star Wars to the small screen and brought us revolutionary stories with characters that will forever live in our hearts as Star Wars fans. The animation, colors, art, lighting, music and movements of the characters won the show 2 Emmys (2013 & 2014). The Clone Wars was directly worked on by George Lucas while the leader on the show was Dave Filoni. Filoni brought something to Star Wars that upholds the Star Wars legacy and enriched the saga. In early 2014 it was announced that a deal had been struck with Netflix that would bring the entire series of The Clone Wars to Netflix. Along with this would be a 13 episode sixth season that would be titled The Lost Missions. Fans of the show were over the moon with excitement and the episodes took us to some amazing places.

The Blu-Ray announcement was even more exciting for fans like me because this allows us to complete our collections. The Blu-Ray will be available to everyone on November 11th, 2014. The 2 Disc Blu-Ray is being listed on Amazon for a pre-order list price of $45.99 but on sale for $34.99. This price is in line with the other Blu-Ray seasons and has the same packaging as the seasons before it back to Season 3.

The episodes from The Lost Missions looked stunning on Netflix but on this Blu-Ray they gave me chills. I love the animation and the art of The Clone Wars, the animation is simply gorgeous there is no way around that. The integrity of The Clone Wars was definitely maintained. An interesting aspect of this Blu-Ray is that it is the first Star Wars Blu-Ray to come since the Disney acquisition and inside the case are Disney Movie Rewards and Disney Movie Club advertisements. I am not sure why I found this entertaining but I did and I love that the two worlds have come together as one.

The best part of this Blu-Ray is of course the Bonus Content. At the beginning of October 2014 we got some bonus episodes and art about the last 4 unfinished episodes of The Clone Wars on Star Wars.com. Part of the Bonus content are these unfinished episodes and it is very interesting to see these episodes but not getting the full feeling of The Clone Wars. It is nice getting to experience the stories on my TV though vs. my computer monitor. I do wish these episodes could have been finished I think they would have been a great ending to the show. The other piece of Bonus content that I had never seen before is a 16 minute behind the scenes documentary that really helped us see the love and care that was put into the show. Dave Filoni at the end talks about the sadness they felt when they had to end the show but also how The Clone Wars allowed Star Wars Rebels (the new CG animated Star Wars show on Disney XD) to exist. I love that the documentary brought the show full circle and I can not wait for the fans of the show to see the documentary.

For true Star Wars and Star Wars The Clone Wars fans this Blu-Ray is worth the money. I am glad that we are getting this closure to the show and maybe someday we will get the soundtrack, but until then this is goodbye to The Clone Wars and thank you for 6 amazing seasons.

May The Force Be With You, Always

Swan & Dolphin Food and Wine Classic – A Disney MUST DO for all Foodies!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

November 3, 2014

Food Wine Classic Aerial View Causeway Night 1

This Halloween I headed over to the Swan and Dolphin Resort (along with my boyfriend) to check out an event I had not previously heard much about – the Food and Wine Classic. I am a die hard EPCOT Food and Wine Festival fan, but I didn’t know anything about this event until just a few weeks ago. I’ll delve into all the delicious details below, but long story short: I was pleasantly surprised from beginning to end, and am happy to say that it was worth every penny of the price.

Here’s the low down. Two days per year, the Swan and Dolphin Resort (perfectly seated between EPCOT and Hollywood Studios) hosts the Food and Wine Classic. This event includes numerous seminars as well as an all night outdoor party – the highlight of the classic! The hour long seminars range from pasta making to molecular mixology – something for everyone! The party on the causeway offers ticket options ranging from a la carte to all you can eat/drink (I STRONGLY recommend this option!) and there are food and wine options to please all palates. During the main event, guests take over the Causeway (that connects the Swan and Dolphin) to eat and drink to their heart’s content.

We started our evening at the Modern Mixology Seminar with Lindsay Skillman. This mini science course was the perfect kick start to our evening – we froze strawberries in front of our eyes with liquid nitrogen, practiced spherification (creating mini gel like spheres filled with liquor!), and whipped up delicious spiked foams. If you have any interest in higher level bartending (or chemistry) this class will be right up your alley! This course was $60 and I can honestly say it is the best bang for your buck. The drinks were flowing and the lessons our group learned will be shown off at dinner parties for years to come.

After leaving with our magically frozen sangria, we headed down to the outdoor causeway. We were blown away when we saw 49 booths full of food, wine, and beer along with a full blown beer garden! Much like EPCOT’s Food and Wine Festival, you walk up to a booth and get a small sampling of whatever interests you (ex. Charred Octopus with Romesco Sauce from Bluezoo or a crisp Moscato from an Italian vineyard). This event was a game changer, because I could freely try anything I wanted without worrying about a huge price tag, long line, or huge crowd. We opted for the all inclusive ticket ($108.26) and never once waited in a line or went without a table. There were waiters ready and waiting to dispose of your finished plates (within seconds of finishing) and you were never more than 10 feet from another culinary experience. The crowds were minimal – especially compared to the EPCOT madness. The music was great, and some excellent celebrity chefs were casually mingling throughout the crowd. I really appreciated the variety of offerings – they could easily accommodate wine preferences, gluten free, vegetarian, beer drinkers, etc.

Highlights for us included the Blackened Salmon, Spinach Puree, Meyer Lemon Beurre Blanc from Garden Grove, the Roasted Beef Tenderloin, Mashed Potatoes, Sauce Bordelaise from Shula’s Steakhouse, and the Laurent Branlard Desserts (featuring a Bananas Foster Panini!). We also sampled some delicious wine and, thanks to their featured wine rating app, we could seek these wines (and others like them) out at our local grocery store after the event! All in all, we had a wonderful, relaxing, delicious evening – and we can’t wait to do it again!

This event really brought the spotlight on how magnificent the Swan and Dolphin properties are. As a local, I have been to all the resorts/parks, and often overlooked these two (sadly, because they aren’t “officially Disney”). The food and drink showcased at this event has brought the Swan and Dolphin to the top of my list, and I can’t wait to go back. Even their poolside fare would wow you!

Now that I am head over heels in love with this event I am wondering: how many of you have been keeping this little gem in your back pocket hoping it goes undiscovered? I can assure you we will be saving up through 2015 and looking forward to the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic!

Food Wine Classic Aerial View Causeway Night 1

Food Wine Classic Causeway 1

Food Wine Classic Italy Wine Tasting Booth

Beef Tenderloin Shulas Steak House

Blackened Salmon Garden Grove

All desserts October 31

Marvel Movie Lineup Announcement Has Fans Cheering!

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

November 2, 2014

Marvel’s announcement yesterday of their upcoming line up included one of a kind movies scheduled for release through 2019.

With this impressive list of movies, comes an even bigger list of characters and stars as well. At the event, the announcement of Black Panther, starring Chadwick Boseman, brought down the house as well as the appearances of Robert Downey Jr (Ironman) and Chris Evans (Capt. America). Over 1000 fans and media attended this early morning event at El Capitan Theatre in Hollwood. Check out some of the pictures and the list of movie titles below. I can’t wait for Civil War!! Who do you think they will cast as Captain Marvel? Which one are you most excited to see?

5/1/15 – AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON
7/17/15 – ANT-MAN
5/6/16 – CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR
11/4/16 – DOCTOR STRANGE
5/5/17 – GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY 2 (previously dated 7/28/17)
7/28/17 – THOR: RAGNAROK
11/3/17 – BLACK PANTHER
5/4/18 – AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR PART I
7/6/18 – CAPTAIN MARVEL
11/2/18 – INHUMANS
5/3/19 – AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR PART II

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My name is Loretta Garcia and I am the Entertainment Writer for Chip and Company. Visit our site for updates, promotions and especially all the new and exciting upcoming Marvel news!

Celebrating Thanksgiving in Walt Disney World 2014

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

November 2, 2014

Are you planning to spend your Thanksgiving in Walt Disney World this year? If so, you’re in luck! Walt Disney World has a plan to make this year even more magical than ever before with 35 special restaurant locations each participating in unique holiday inspired menus and locations which are dedicated to offering a magical dining experience to Walt Disney World Guests on November 27th.

If you are ready to check-in on the fun this holiday, you’ll be excited to hear that Disney is bringing a fresh take to this American tradition by calling upon the top most distinguished chefs in Walt Disney World all which will come together to create 35 festive and unique menus inspired from flavors around the globe to be shared with their Guests on Thanksgiving Day 2014.

Sanaa in the Animal Kingdom Lodge

Pull up a seat to savor some African/Indian flare with your Thanksgiving meal. Try these internationally inspired Sanaa delicacies such as; crispy poppy seed lavash, delicious apple-cranberry achar, hot & fresh house-made naan and more.

Artist Point at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Be sure to bring your appetite and join us at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge for some down-home cooking this Thanksgiving with an amazing meal featuring dishes such as; sweet candied walnuts, mulled apple cider, juicy roasted heirloom beets and more.

Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in Epcot

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without some delicious sliced roasted turkey breast just brimming with all the trimmings! Excited to try a Norwegian inspired take on this mouthwatering tradition? Akershus invites you to dine on favorites such as Norwegian meatballs, fresh pan-seared salmon and more – all in true Norwegian fashion.

Be sure to check out the Holiday offerings from 35 Walt Disney World Resorts and Theme Park Dining locations which will be featuring festive Thanksgiving traditional and non-traditional favorites on their menus exclusive only to Nov. 27th! Here are just a few of the participating dining locations for this year’s celebration:

Magic Kingdom

Epcot

Hollywood Studios

Animal Kingdom

Tusker House Restaurant

Many other Walt Disney World Resort dining locations will be featuring some unique Holiday offerings on their menus. Come try the Disney culinary masterpieces each inspired from flavors around the globe and add in some magic to your Thanksgiving tradition this November in Walt Disney World Resorts and Theme Parks!

Will you be dining out at Walt Disney World Resorts and Theme Parks this Thanksgiving holiday? Are you excited about the new globally inspired cuisine being featured in Disney restaurants this year? Leave us a message below we love to hear from our Disney Addicts!

Valid park admission is required for theme park dining. Availability is limited. Rates and events subject to change or cancellation without notice. Be sure to grab your reservations today!

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