MARVEL’S FACEBOOK PAGE CELEBRATES 7 MILLION LIKES!

By

-

July 22, 2014

Marvel is excited to announce that it now has reached 7 million+ Likes on the Marvel Facebook page. In order to celebrate this massive social achievement, Marvel is offering all visitors to the Marvel Facebook page exclusive and unlocked first-looks at upcoming Marvel projects and FREE digital comics throughout the day.

Starting at 12PM EST, with new content unlocked every other hour, Marvel Facebook fans and visitors will be the first to see exclusive content and be offered FREE digital comics for a very limited time* to read through the Marvel Comics App (for iPhone ®, iPad ®, iPod Touch ® & Android ™ devices) and the Marvel Digital Comics Shop.

With over 7 million fans strong on Facebook, we want to thank you for making yours Marvel, but that’s not all, because we’ll have even more Mighty Marvel surprises up our sleeves that Marvel Facebook fans will only have access to! With so many ways to get your daily dose of all things Marvel, there’s no reason not to get involved!

With all the Marvel content available throughout the day, don’t miss out! Follow Marvel on Facebook at www.facebook.com/marvel and be sure to stop back throughout the day.

For more on all things Marvel, please visit marvel.com and join in the conversation on Twitter with #Marvel.

Where to Find Disney Character Buffet Dining Locations in Disney World

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 22, 2014

Disney Character Dining Locations hold some of my favorite fun-filled memories on Disney Property. During our visits ‘Home’ my family and I usually book at least one or two Character Dining Reservations per trip. No restaurant on Disney property can boast more deliciously tempting variety than an All-You-Care-To-Eat Disney Buffet. This convenient, time saving dining option offers up countless menu selection from Savory to Sweet. There truly is something for everyone in your party. Plus, who doesn’t want to add a little extra Magic to their Mickey Waffles?

With several different buffet styles and characters to choose from, you can take your pick from your favorite character experiences or menu styles plus saving a little meet-and-greet time in the parks while your at it.

Here is a list of the Character Buffet Dining experiences featured in Walt Disney World – Florida. (Character appearances and entertainment are subject to change.) Advanced Dining Reservations (ADR) are highly recommended! Valid Park Admission Required For Dining Reservations located inside of Walt Disney World Parks.

Character Buffet Dining Locations in Walt Disney World:

1900 Park Fare

Located inside of the Grand Floridian Resort this restaurant is one of my favorite over-all dining experiences. First up is Breakfast,1900 Park Fare presents the Supercalifragilistic Breakfast with character appearances by: Mary Poppins, Alice in Wonderland, The Mad Hatter, Tigger and Winnie the Pooh.
For Dinner 1900 Park Fare offers Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner where you can visit: Cinderella, The Prince and the wicked Step Sisters. This restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner; and in addition to offering two different menus, it also offers two different character experiences!

Extra Magic Tip: Try the Strawberry Soup and check this one off your 100 Foods to Eat Before You Die Challenge!

Akershus Royal Banquet Hall

Located in the Norway Pavilion in Epcot. Akershus invites you to an unforgettable Storybook Dining experience inside a medieval castle with soaring archways and cathedral ceilings. Now open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner – Akershus is not only a great way to save time on Princess Meet and Greets but it also features Norwegian style cuisine for a unique dining option in Disney Parks.
Character appearances usually include: Snow White, Cinderella, Belle, Princess Aurora, Ariel and sometimes Jasmine or Mary Poppins. Don’t forget your autograph books!

Extra Magic Tip: If you arrive before January 4th 2015 you will also receive a complimentary photo keepsake delivered right your table as you dine. Don’t forget to let a Cast Member know if you are celebrating a special occasion, you just might find a little extra magic along the way!

Cape May Cafe

Located inside Disney’s Beach Club Resort just off Disney’s Boardwalk. What better way to spend a “day at the beach” than by enjoying an American style buffet with some of your favorite Disney Characters? Cape May Cafe offers a Beach Themed Character Breakfast with appearances by: Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck and Pluto. Crayons on the table let Guests of all ages draw on paper tablecloths, while they enjoy Mickey waffles, scrambled eggs, seasoned potatoes, sausage, oatmeal and more. Please note: Disney Characters join Guests for breakfast only.

Extra Magic Tip: Although Cape May Cafe offers many delicious options, if you have a sweet tooth like mine; try topping your French Toast with some Caramelized Bananas! It’s a combination you won’t soon forget.

Chef Mickey’s

Located inside Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Chef Mickey’s invites you to enjoy a lively, all-you-care-to-eat buffet with Disney Friends while the monorail whizzes by. Disney Characters mingle with Guests for photos and autographs and periodically lead meals in song and dance. Character appearances by: Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Pluto, Donald Duck and Goofy. Breakfast features such favorites as pancakes, Mickey waffles, French toast, fresh fruit, bacon and more, while Dinner offers roasted chicken, carved beef, pasta, savory sides and kids’ favorites like macaroni and cheese. After your meal guests of all ages will delight in the sundae bar, where you can customize your own decadent dessert!

Extra Magic Tip: Be sure to stop by for an extra photo opportunity at Chef Mickey’s restaurant. Upon arrival a PhotoPass Cast Member will gladly take your family’s photo by the Chef Mickey Statue.

The Crystal Palace

Located on Mainstreet U.S.A. in the Magic Kingdom Park. The Crystal Palace serves up Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner with an All-You-Care-to-Enjoy experience bountiful buffet featuring American favorites prepared before you in the onstage kitchen. Character Appearances: Pooh, Tigger, Piglet and Eeyore.

Extra Magic Tips: Make a reservation before the park opens to get a jump start on your day with unforgettable character opportunities, an amazing breakfast, and avoid the Park-Opening Crowds by starting your day one step ahead of the rest!
Don’t forget to inform a Cast Member if you are celebrating a birthday or anniversary at Walt Disney World and the characters may sign a special card for you!

Hollywood & Vine

Located in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Hollywood & Vine features a unique Character experience with your favorite Disney Junior Pals! Eat, play and dance along with character appearances by: Jake and the Never Land Pirates, Doc McStuffins, Sofia the First, and Handy Manny during this fun and engaging dining experience. This Breakfast buffet features favorites like Mickey waffles, frittatas, pastries and fresh fruit. Lunch offerings include family entrees like, baked chicken, deli meats, hearty pastas and fresh salads. Please note: Disney Characters join Guests for Breakfast and Lunch only.

Extra Magic Tip: If your stopping in for Lunch don’t miss the new chocolate fountain with fresh-dipped fruits, divine cakes and other delectable sweet treats!

Tusker House Restaurant

Located in ‘Africa’ at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park. Take an adventure with Donald and friends: Mickey, Minnie and Goofy for Donald’s Dining Safari – Breakfast and Lunch. These two all-you-care-to-enjoy meal buffets include traditional American fare, plus unique dishes with African influences. I consider the Tusker House Restaurant one of the best-kept secrets on Disney property when it comes to Character Dining, so if you can grab a reservation at this unique buffet this is certainly an experience that you won’t want to forget. Please note: Disney Characters join Guests for Breakfast and Lunch only.

Extra Magic Tip: Make a reservation before the park opens to get a jump start on your day with unforgettable character opportunities, an amazing breakfast, and avoid the Park Opening crowds by starting your day one step ahead of the rest!
Be sure to check out Kilimanjaro Safaris after breakfast because the lines get long QUICKLY and the animals are more active during the early morning hours.

Disney Dining Plan: Each of the above restaurants are currently accepting the Disney Dining Plan and require 1 Table Service Dining Credit Per Person, Per Meal at this time.

Regardless of the restaurant that you choose, you are sure to have a Magical time as each of these restaurant locations offer a unique and fun dining experience all-their-own. Be sure not to forget your camera, autograph book or a pen!

What’s your favorite Character Buffet Dining Location? We’d love to hear your stories so be sure to leave us a note in the comment section below!

Photo Credits: Disney

Guardians of the Galaxy Merchandise in Disney Parks

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 21, 2014

We have a first look at some of the “Guardians of the Galaxy” merchandise headed to Disney parks. Pictured above is the shirts.

So maybe clothes are not your thing, have no fear there will be toys too. Well, of course there will be toys, it is Disney after-all. There will be a Star-Lord Blaster, Rapid Fire Rocket, a Hero Ship, Galactic Battler and much more.

There are few more goodies to keep a look out for like the, “Guardians of the Galaxy” book and CD. There will also be as D-Tech iPhone case and more.

Pin traders will love the “Guardians of the Galaxy” limited edition pin.

If you will be in the parks, here is where you can find the merchandise:

Disneyland Resort

Disney California Adventure park – Off the Page

Disneyland park – Star Trader

Downtown Disney District – D Street, World of Disney Store

Walt Disney World Resort

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort – Donald’s Double Feature

Disney’s Contemporary Resort – Fantasia Market

Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Superstar Shop

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside – Fulton’s General Store

Downtown Disney Marketplace – Once Upon A Toy

Downtown Disney West Side – D-Street

Epcot – Mission Space

Magic Kingdom Park – Fantasy Faire, Merchant of Venus

Don’t forget “Guardians of the Galaxy” opens in theaters on August 1.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Aulani Wins Top Honors

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 21, 2014

Let me be honest, I read about Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa winning a World’s Best Award this morning and I literally shouted “D’uh” out loud. I may even have startled my son a bit. He got over it quickly though. Kids are resilient like that. If you’re new to ChipandCo you may not know about my love affair with Aulani, so click around on these links to read past articles about my favorite Hawaiian Resort.

Aulani has been awarded the Top Family Hotel in the United States by the readers of Travel + Leisure Magazine in this years World Best 2014. Aulani is truly an amazing resort for all who visit, especially for families.

Aulani offers amazing activities for families to enjoy their time together and apart during their stay. From Aunty’s Beach House for the kid’s to get away to the Stingray Experience that the family can do together. There’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.

I know you keep reading these articles and thinking, gosh I want to go there so bad. Someday I’ll visit Hawaii and Aulani. I can easily put together different room options and show you how affordable a trip to Aulani and Hawaii can be. Nothing to lose and so much to gain when you take the time to look at visiting the Worlds Best Top Family Hotel in the United States!

When Daniel isn’t sharing Planning Tips about Disney Cruises, Disneyland, Aulani, and other Destinations, he can be found either wishing he was at Disneyland or planning his and other’s Disney Vacations. Sometimes you can find him dreaming of which character he’ll be for Halloween too. Contact him or Request a Quote on the right side of the ChipandCo Page.

Disney Armed Forces Salute Released

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 21, 2014

Disney has released the Armed Forces Salute for the remainder of 2014 through Sept. 2015 today. This includes special pricing on accommodations and tickets for active and retired U.S. Military personnel.

Here’s the details..

At Walt Disney World Resort – from August 25, 2014, through September 30, 2015, active and retired U.S. military personnel (including active and retired members of the United States Coast Guard, National Guard and Reservists) or their spouses can purchase:

Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper Option for $177 each, plus tax
Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Water Park Fun and More Option for $177 each, plus tax
Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets with Park Hopper and Water Park Fun and More Options for $207 each, plus tax.

Walt Disney World Resort tickets may be used September 28, 2014, through October 3, 2015, except that the tickets may not be used December 22, 2014 – January 2, 2015 and March 29 – April 9, 2015.

For information on Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets for admission to Walt Disney World Resort, or to make room reservations at Walt Disney World Resort, military personnel may call 407-939-7830 or participating U.S. military base ticket offices.

At the Disneyland Resort – from August 25, 2014, through October 1, 2015, active and retired U.S. military personnel (including active and retired members of the United States Coast Guard, National Guard and Reservists) or their spouses can purchase:

Disney Military Promotional 3-Day Park Hopper Tickets for $132 each

Disneyland tickets may be used September 28, 2014, through October 3, 2015, except that the tickets may not be used December 25, 2014 – January 4, 2015 and March 29 – April 9, 2015.

Active and retired U.S. military personnel can purchase Disney Military Promotional Tickets for themselves and up to five additional family members or friends. No more than six Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased by any eligible member of the U.S. military (or spouse) pursuant to this offer. All tickets and options are non-transferable and must be used by October 3, 2015.

Active and retired U.S. military personnel can also take advantage of specially priced rooms at select Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort hotels.* This offer is valid for stays most nights from September 28, 2014, through October 3, 2015, except for:

November 27 – November 29, 2014
December 24 – December 31, 2014
March 30 – April 4, 2015

For information regarding Disney 3-Day Military Promotional Tickets for admission to the Disneyland Resort, or to make room reservations at the Disneyland Resort, military personnel may call 714-520-7088 or participating U.S. military base ticket offices. Information is also available at disneymilitaryoffers.com.

Here are some other details you should know about:

Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased at participating U.S. military sales outlets ONLY by Eligible Service Members (defined below) or their spouses (but not both), for use by themselves and other family members and friends, as provided herein. These Tickets may not be otherwise transferred, distributed or resold.
“Eligible Service Members” are active or retired members of the U.S. military, including the National Guard, Reservists and the U.S. Coast Guard.
The actual prices charged at the individual U.S. military base ticket offices for Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be less than the prices set forth above.
Participating military sales outlets must require that Eligible Service Members (or their spouses) present valid military identification to purchase Disney Military Promotional Tickets.
Disney 4-Day Military Promotional Tickets for admission to the Walt Disney World Resort are not valid until activated by the Eligible Service Members (or their spouses) at Walt Disney World theme park ticket windows. Tickets and options expire and may not be used after October 3, 2015. Valid military identification will be required for purchase and use.
Disney 3-Day Military Promotional Tickets for admission to the Disneyland Resort expire and may not be used after October 3, 2015. Valid military identification will be required for purchase and use.
No more than six (6) Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased and (if applicable) activated by any Eligible Service Member or spouse (regardless of the place of purchase and whether purchased by that person or that person’s spouse). In addition, one of the six (6) Tickets purchased must be used by the Eligible Service Member or his/her spouse.
Each Disney Military Promotional Ticket must be used by the same person on any and all days.

*The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Minimum length of stay requirements may apply. Valid Military ID will be required upon check-in, and military member (or spouse) must stay in the room. No group rates or other discounts apply. Advance reservations required. Additional per-adult charges apply at the Walt Disney World Resort if there are more than two adults per room. Other restrictions apply

*Information courtesy of Disney Parks Blog

At DIF we offer personalized travel planning, lots of extras and fun just for you! Call me at 832-233-4468,check out my page, here, or email me at [email protected] and we can get started on making me your personal travel assistant for free!

J.J. Abrams Offers Fans The Chance To Win A Private Hometown Screening Of Star Wars: Episode VII Before It Hits Theaters

By

Chip

-

July 21, 2014

2014 07 21 09 02 11 Star Wars Force for Change An Update from J.J. Abrams YouTube

On the set of Star Wars: Episode VII, Director J.J. Abrams was interrupted by an X-Wing pilot and rogue robot as he announced the chance for fans to win an advance private screening of Star Wars: Episode VII. “We are so grateful for the support that the fans from over 119 countries have shown for Force for Change,” said Abrams. “As we close this final week, we’ve added an additional prize that allows the fans the opportunity to see the movie early as a thank you for supporting such a great cause as UNICEF’s innovative, lifesaving work for children.” By contributing at any level by July 25th, participants will be eligible for all prizes including a chance to be in the movie.

Star Wars: Force for Change impressively raised over one million dollars within the first 24 hours of its launch—a record for Omaze, the fundraising platform. So far contributors from 119 countries around the world have backed Force for Change, in support of the United Nations Children’s Fund’s (UNICEF) Innovation Labs and programs. UNICEF’s network of 14 Innovation Labs help create sustainable solutions to critical issues facing children around the world in the areas of nutrition, water, health, and education. The funds raised through Star Wars: Force for Change will impact the lives of children around the world, through projects like MobiStation, a portable, solar-powered educational kit to ensure children have access to quality learning anywhere, and Rapid FTR (Family Tracing and Reunification), a mobile phone application that helps reunite separated and unaccompanied children with their families in natural disasters. Fans can continue to pledge support and enter for a chance win until 11:59pm on July 25.

The Star Wars: Force for Change Grand Prize includes:

Airfare and accommodations to London for one winner and a guest
Behind-the-scenes access on the closed set of Star Wars: Episode VII as VIP guests of J.J. Abrams
Winner will have the opportunity to meet members of the cast
Winner and their guest will then be transformed by makeup and costume teams into a Star Wars character and filmed for a scene in Star Wars: Episode VII

Disney committed US $1 million to support the launch of Star Wars: Force for Change. Star Wars continues to inspire generations of dreamers and doers to use their creativity to accomplish great things. Star Wars and Lucasfilm were built on the belief that in uniting creativity with innovation, you can make the impossible possible.

Visit StarWars.com/ForceForChange to learn more about this new charitable initiative and the work of UNICEF’s Innovation Labs and programs, and be sure to enter through contribution or free entry for your chance to win at Omaze.com/StarWars.

May the Force be with you!

Earn Money Towards Your Next Disney Vacation

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 21, 2014

The 2015 packages are being released on July 30th, and you are not sure if you will be traveling to Walt Disney World, but you know someone who is. Here’s a great way to earn money towards your next vacation, the Destinations in Florida referral program.

Here is your chance to earn some extra cash without a lot of work. One of my favorite ways ! With our Referral Rewards program you refer your friends, co-workers, Facebook friends, Twitter friends, Pinterest friends, and even family to one of the best travel agencies in the world. They receive exceptional service, perks and services (valued at over $500) and receive a Thank You Gift !

Here’s the Need To Know:

1. Sign up to be a participant in the form here

2. Refer friends, family, neighbors, and acquaintances to our agency

3. You then receive $25.00 Gift Certificate towards your future vacation and can be used on any vacation destination (excluding Sandals and Beaches).

4. Credit is for vacation packages over $2000.00

Additional Perks:

Besides receiving a $25 referral fee for thinking of our agency. You also are entered to win monthly prizes. This month we will be giving away (2) tickets to a Disney Water Park. Sign up below for our Referral Rewards program.

Our Referral Rewards program does add up! One of our favorite guests has received enough Referral Reward dollars to actually pay for a week long vacation to Disney World. He is now saving up for his second trip on a Disney Cruise. This is an easy way to make money, by referring your friends and family that already travel to us. Sign up today!

At DIF we offer personalized travel planning, lots of extras and fun just for you! Call me at 832-233-4468,check out my page, here, or email me at [email protected] and we can get started on making me your personal travel assistant for free!

Change4Life and Disney Collaborate to Get Kids Moving in the UK

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 20, 2014

Public Health England launched a new Change4Life campaign in collaboration with Disney to get kids more active over the summer. The 10 Minute Shake Up campaign uses popular Disney characters along with Change4Life animations to get kids doing more 10 minute bursts of exercise, to help them reach the recommended daily physical activity goals.

Recent Surveys reveal that almost half of parents surveyed with children aged 5 to 11 say the most frequent complaint from their children during the summer holidays is ‘I’m bored’.

Children are supposed to get a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day, which can be achieved in 1 session or through shorter bursts of 10 minute activity. Only 1 in 5 children aged 5 to 10 currently meets the recommended target of 60 minutes of daily activity, with almost 40% of children in this age group doing less than 30 minutes per day.

The 10 Minute Shake Up campaign brings families loads of fun, free Disney inspired activities and games to get children doing more 10 minute bursts of activity each day. To join, parents should search Change4life and sign up for the free 10 Minute Shake Up Pack, which includes a stopwatch, Disney inspired activity cards and a wall chart and stickers to help chart their progress. There are also tons of games and activities online at the Change4life 10 Minute Shake Up Zone to keep children active all holiday.

Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Public Health), Jane Ellison said:

The government is committed to encouraging active and healthy lifestyles and we are seeing some encouraging signs of childhood obesity levels stabilising. By 2020, we want to see a sustained downward trend in the level of excess weight in children, by encouraging people to eat healthily and be more active. Change4life and this 10 Minute Shake Up campaign helps towards that ambition by providing parents with fun, easy ideas on how to get their children more active over their summer holidays.

Dr Ann Hoskins, Director for Children, Young People and Families, PHE, said:

As a mother, I know how difficult it can be to find ways to keep the family active and entertained during the summer holidays. That’s why Change4Life and Disney have teamed up to bring families fun, free games and activities that children can do in just 10 minutes. Encouraging children to do a few extra 10 minute bursts of activity every day can make a real difference to children’s health.

Marianthi O’Dwyer, VP, Head of Living Well at The Walt Disney Company said:

This campaign uses children’s favorite characters including Mickey Mouse, Sulley and Olaf and their recognizable signature ‘moves’ and stories as inspiration to get active.

Disney’s vision is to inspire families to flourish, by encouraging life-long healthy behaviours, through story-telling, imagination, fun and play. This campaign with Change4Life is just the start of our commitment to this vision.

The 10 Minute Shake Up campaign will run for 6 weeks from today. Disney will also be supporting the campaign with specific 10 Minute Shake Up programming on its channels, from dance-along tutorials to football and basketball skills and contemporary tricks, as well as activity in Disney Stores. Events will also take place across the country, offering families tips, ideas and demonstrations on how easy and fun 10 minute bursts of activity can be.

Photo Credit: gov.uk

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Hollywood Studios Frozen Fun Premium Package Review

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 20, 2014

The first question out of everyone’s mouth to me was is, “Is the Hollywood Studios Frozen Fun Premium Package really worth it?” My answer in a nutshell is, Yes! Is it an easy way for Disney to make a couple bucks off Frozen? Absolutely. But, they take care of you in a way that makes you feel special during this event and give you great opportunities that you might not otherwise have!

The morning starts with checking in before 11am near Min and Bill’s dockside diner to pick up your event lanyards and enter a roped off area for premium package guests to view the processional. There is a big event stage set up in front of the Hat and if you are looking straight at it, this area is to the left and curves along the last leg of the processional with a great view of the stage. Besides the great view, you also get “free” beverages with a choice of water, soda and frozen lemonade cups. After the processional, which includes Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and the many citizens of Arendelle, there is a short stage presentation.

Along with getting your lanyard when you check in, you get to pick a time for the First Time in Forever Frozen singalong which happens several times throughout the day. Another great bonus included in this package is that the first 3 rows are reserved for you! I got to snap some awesome photos throughout the performance. The singalong features 2 comedic historians of Arendelle who retell the story of Anna and Elsa pausing for the songs. Anna and Kristoff show up a few times and Elsa makes her grand entrance toward the end where she magically makes it snow and sings a last verse of Let it Go with everywhere.

Not trying to save the best for last as I’m going in order of the day but the Fireworks dessert party truly is the best part! They allow package guests to enter the same roped off area as in the morning starting at 8:30pm (fireworks at 9:45pm). There really is something for everyone at this party! From themed cookies and mini cupcakes to Mickey bars and even a fruit table, the WIDE array of unlimited options is fantastic. Along with all the snacks, beverages are available as well as some tasty mixed cocktails for those of us over 21. Before the fireworks we check in with Olaf to see all the fun he had throughout the day with park guests. One of the picture I posted to instagram with him was featured in this segment! Now for the fireworks, they were spectacular! Before the end of the show Anna, Kristoff and Elsa come back on stage for the Let it Go finale.

Throughout the day, there are plenty of Frozen things to do around the park including Wandering Oaken’s trading post shopping area, Frozen Funland and a Frozen dance party at the stage starting at 5:30pm. There is also plenty of time to do rides, see shows and have dinner.

Remember to grab an Olaf on a stick when you enter the park, grab a cute selfie and tag it with #Olafsummervacation!

Photo Credit: Samantha Wyatt Photography

Planes: Fire & Rescue Press Day

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 20, 2014

planes fire and rescue research IMG 0908

The Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills was the location for the Planes: Fire & Rescue Press Day. Arriving at the hotel, I checked in and was assigned to one of several hotel rooms where the round table interviews would be conducted.

Wes Studi was the first to share his experience as the voice of Windlifter. Windlifter is a heavy lift helicopter of native american descent and Wes feels that was a good decision. Wes shared that living in the southwestern area of the US, 60% of the firefighting community is made up of many “American Indian Hotshots and Firefighters” from the reservations. Wes was asked about the strange mythological story Windlifter tells in the movie and Wes shared some advice on how to “grab” the audience through storytelling. Wes talked about how he added his own touches to the character that were unique to the culture. Wes chooses his roles based on their entertainment value and although he worked “solo” and the first for him in animation, he found it was the same as with any acting, you need to create an image in your mind and go forward. Wes mentioned having a sketch of Windlifter and how he was once video taped up close so as to use his facial expressions.

Bobs Gannaway (Director) and Ferrell Barron (Producer) were up next and discussed how Planes: Fire & Rescue came to be. Bobs talked about how the story came about when it was discovered that cropdusters were one of the first firefighting planes used in Medocino County’s 1955 Fires. Once that came up, they realized that it was a part of Dusty’s legacy and helped set up the basic storyline. From there, fires were researched and Yellowstone Natl Park fires came up. The injured athlete portion came up when research into cropduster planes showed that if the plane was in fact pushed, engine damage would occur. Bobs and Ferrell then talked about finding the voices that enbody the characters. With Julie Bowen, “we wanted a romance” – after all, Dusty is now a world famous racer and would have fans. Julie Bowen as Lil Dipper go through all the stages of romance with Dusty and even had them breaking up at the end, but that was taken out of the movie. Ferrell talked about three favorite characters that audience will fall in love – May Day (Hal Holbrook). Bobs Gannaway shared a personal story about his grandfather and took parts of his experience and applied them to MayDay. Harvie and Winnie’s voices by real life married couple, Jerry Stiller & Anne Meara had the perfect chemistry and the scene where Winnie said I love you had everyone in the booth in tears.

Asked if it was planned as a video vs theatrical release, Bobs said it was a theatrical movie from the start. Four years of work to get everything right with the fire and special effects, but also to make sure the characters were also going to be someone the audience could love and identify with. Last question was the standard “will there be a Planes 3?” Looks like we have to wait and see.

Dane Cook walked in and after a star struck moment when I handed him a bottle of water, I quietly sat and listened as he shared his excitement about the new look, Dusty gets in Fire & Rescue. Dane talked about how in the first movie, Dusty is naive and a day dreamer and Dane’s voice was more of a youngster and in this movie, Dusty has grown and matured allowing Dane to see him “almost as a new character”. Dane was very pleased with the interaction between Dusty and Dipper (Julie Bowen). Dane feels the movie will help audiences have a new appreciation for firefighters and fires. His experience as Dusty is amazing and enjoys and understand how the kids feel. He compares it to the feeling of meeting his idol, Jerry Lewis, who Dane finally got to meet a few years ago. Dane incorporated some of what the movie means and his character in his stand up comedy routine. When asked about the story line and second chances, Dane said that it is what gives the movie character. When he spoke to the research team and saw how passionate they were about the fire fighters and their world, Dane knew it would be a fun adventure. It is a reality and entertainment at its best to have this movie focus on the real fears and life stories about firefighting. As for the second chance theme, he can relate to how Dusty takes the opportunity and helps his community to improve and better it. Dane said what brings him the most pleasure is to have someone come up to him and thank him for helping his community.

Julie Bowen came last to talk about her experience. Julie looked absolutely beautiful in person and has the funniest session. She talked about how the fact that she was alone in the recording studio was perfect because Lil Dipper lives in her own little world of make believe and that helped Julie. Talking about how fast Julie talks, Julie said that nervous energy resulted in the ideal character voice that was natural and not cartoony or fake. Asked about Lil Dipper’s physical appearance, Julie said she was very happy about it as it shows her strength and capacity. “She’s built for comfort and for her job”. Asked if being a Disney character gives her street credit with the kids, to which Julie said yes for a small amount of time, but the kids don’t want their mom as a famous person, but as mom. As a big fan of Julie Bowen, after spending time listening to her, I have become an even bigger fan. She is not only beautiful but an incredibly funny and talented actress.

Listening to these incredibly talented cast, talk about their experiences and how key movie scenes came to be, gives Planes: Fire & Rescue a whole new twist and even more respect for fire and Disney movie making.

Don’t miss Disney’s Planes: Fire & Rescue in theatres July 18th.

My name is Loretta Garcia and I am the Entertainment Writer for Chip and Co. Follow me on Facebook for promotions and news updates.

planes fire and rescue research IMG 0810 R

planes fire and rescue research DSC 0450

planes fire and rescue research DSC 5411

planes fire and rescue research IMG 6005

planes fire and rescue research IMG 5988

planes fire and rescue research IMG 2353

planes fire and rescue research IMG 5998 C

Experience these Summer Nighttime events in Epcot

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 20, 2014

I have always loved Epcot at night. To me Spaceship Earth is the most beautiful at night!

If you will be visiting Epcot this summer, here are some fun ideas to do towards the end of your day at the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, yes that is what Epcot Stands for in case you didn’t know!

First up is the IllumiNations Sparkling Dessert Party:

IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth is a nightly fireworks, laser and musical event. If you attend this party you are guaranteed to have a great view of the spectacular show known as Illuminations. Not only do you get a great view of the show but you get some amazing desserts that are served with coffee or tea or maybe you prefer to end the evening with a glass of wine. I will take one of each please!

If you have not seen Illuminations I recommend seeing it at least once! It is amazing!

Maybe you want to try the new Epcot After Hours Wind Down:

This is a new experience being offered at Epcot. So imagine, you’ve chosen Spice Road Table. Your magical day is coming to a close, you get a table with a great view of the Lagoon. You server offers you some wine to taste. 3 hot tapas are placed in front of you. You finally get to relax and “wind down” after an amazing day at Epcot. I can’t think of a more magical way to end the day.

So which event sounds good to you?

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Disney World Quick Tip for Families of 5 or more: Family Suite, Connecting Rooms, or DVC Villa?

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

July 19, 2014

This Disney World Quick Tip goes out to all those families trying to book their Walt Disney World Resort with 5 or more people…

Do you have a family of five or bigger? As you may know, many of the rooms at the Walt Disney Resorts only accommodate four people, thereby it becomes more of a challenge to find a room or combination of rooms to hold your larger family. There are three main categories that you can compare.

1. A Family Suite at All Star Movies or Art of Animation: these sleep up to six people and provide a kitchenette. At least half of the sleeping accommodations are pull out sofas, not beds.

2. Connecting Rooms: you can book 2 regular rooms at any of the resorts and request that they connect. This offers four beds and two bathrooms.

3. A Disney Vacation Club Villa: Villas at DVC resorts sleep anywhere from 4 to 12 people. Some of the studio villas sleep five. You don’t have to be a DVC member to get one of these villas. You can rent points for a very good price from our friends at David’s Vacation Club Rentals!

Planning my next trip, I compared the prices of these three options. For my family of six, it is the most economical for us to rent two studios at Boardwalk Villas through David’s DVC Rentals. The price was cheaper than 2 rooms at Port Orleans French Quarter and a family suite at Art of Animation. Two suites allows us lots of space, two bathrooms, and deluxe accommodations.

If you have a big family, make sure you compare different room options to make sure you are getting the best set-up for the best price. Do you have a tip for families of five or more? Share it with us!