‘Thor: The Dark World’ Blu-ray Review

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February 24, 2014

The eighth film in the ever growing Marvel Cinematic Universe, ‘Thor: The Dark World’, was released last November to critical and commercial success. The film finds Thor returning to Asgard, following the events of ‘The Avengers’, as Loki is locked away for his crimes against the earth. But when a centuries old enemy resurfaces, bent on using the Aether to take control of the universe, and become its ruler. Thor knows this isn’t a battle he can handle on his own, so he reluctantly turns to his brother, Loki, for help to save Earth, Asgard, and the rest of the Nine Realms from destruction. Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, and Natalie Portman all return for this third Thor adventure, this time directed by ‘Game of Thrones’ director Alan Taylor. Thankfully, the film has finally made its way to blu-ray, and the results are spectacular.

‘Thor: The Dark World’ comes to blu-ray, courtesy of Walt Disney Home Entertainment, featuring a spectacular looking transfer. The film looks absolutely beautiful, keeping its film look intact from the theater. The presentation is just stunning, with the grimy look of the Nine Realms popping, while the Earth and Asgard scenes are wonderfully glossy and colorful. It’s a great looking film, and Disney has done a bang up job on the transfer. The film also features a great 7.1 HD audio track, giving the film an incredibly wonderful boost. It’ll give your speaker system a good work out, especially in the battle scenes. It’s a loud sound mix, with a lot of bass, and it’s one that your neighbors may not be a fan of, but it does its job in a spectacular fashion, keeping the film’s theatrical mix intact.

Thankfully, the film’s sound and picture aren’t the only standouts on the set. The film has quite a few great special features, and one in particular Marvel fans won’t want to miss. The perviously mentioned feature is a new short film, ‘Marvel One Shot: All Hail the King’, which follows up on the events of ‘Iron Man 3’, where you catch up with Trevor Slattery (Ben Kingsley), who is now in prison. It’s a great film, and actually brings some new questions to light in the MCU, and opens up quite a few new doors. There is eight minutes of deleted scenes, and in a way, I’m sad the scenes that are there were cut. They all add a few more character moments to the film that could have really benefited the final product, and it’s a shame they ended up on the cutting room floor. There’s also half hour look at Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston named, ‘A Brother’s Journey: Thor and Loki’, that actually delves into the actors being cast, to now. It’s a great look at the behind the scenes, as well as these two men who have now played siblings in three separate films. The disc rounds out with a small look at ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’, starring Chris Evans, a gag reel, and an audio commentary. It’s a pretty well put together disc, with some great features, some that fans will surely appreciate.

Disney rarely releases discs that are anything but, and thankfully, ‘The Dark World’, is no different. The disc features a stellar transfer, a great sound mix, and a slew of special features. The film itself is quite good as well. Tom Hiddleston and Hemsworth are both great in their respective roles, and Alan Taylor does a fine job on the direction. The film is a step up from the first, creating a truly fun experience. It’s action packed, full of humor, and fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe so far are sure to love it. The blu-ray, as well as the movie itself, gets a very high recommendation.

Rating: B

Festival of Fantasy to debut on March 9th, 2014

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 24, 2014

The new parade at Magic Kingdom, Festival of Fantasy will debut on March 9th, 2014. It was rumored that this parade would start sometime in March, but Disney pulled the trigger and stated that the parade would officially start on March 9th. This parade is going to be amazing with all new floats, costumes, music, and dancing. I will be at Disney World that day to cover the new parade, and to bring you as much information as possible!

So follow along with us on Instagram and Twitter.

News & Events from around Walt Disney World & Disneyland for the week of Feb 24th

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 24, 2014

There are new things popping up every day at the Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and Universal Orlando Resort. Join us every week to read about “What’s New” in Disney News and at Universal Orlando! Up this week is runDisney, new refillable mugs at the resorts and upcoming performances at Universal’s Mardi Gras!

What’s New This Week

Walt Disney World Resort in Florida

New! Princess Half Marathon Weekend Feb 20-23: runDisney will host the 2014 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend presented by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals at Epcot, Magic Kingdom Park and the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Thursday, Feb 20 through Sunday, Feb 23rd. This event includes:

Disney’s Fit for a Princess Expo (Thurs-Sat)
Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend Breakfast (Friday, Feb 21)
Cinderella Royal Family 5K (Friday, Feb 21)
runDisney Kids Races (Friday and Saturday)
NEW* Disney Princess Enchanted 10K (Saturday, Feb 22)
NEW* Disney Glass Slipper Challenge (Saturday, Feb 22-Sunday Feb 23)
Disney Princess Half Marathon (Sunday, Feb 23)
Happily Ever After Party (Sunday, Feb 23)

Please note that many roads will be closed around Walt Disney World to accommodate the races. Allow extra travel time all weekend.

New! Epcot – 19th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Extended in 2014: The 19th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival kicks off earlier than ever this year, beginning September 19. Guests are invited to enjoy an extra week of festivities, food and paired beverages from around the world September 19-November 10.

New! Raytheon ‘Science Thrills Live’ show at Innoventions West Feb 17-21: Raytheon will celebrate National Engineers Week with “Science Thrills Live”, a show with scientists demonstrating spectacular concepts, encouraging Guests to design and experience their own thrill ride at The Sum of All Thrills presented by Raytheon. Raytheon employees share their passion of engineering with all by being on hand to lead Guests in hands-on experiments. The 20 minute “Science Thrills Live” shows will occur daily Feb 17-21 at 11am, 1, 2, 3 and 4pm in Innoventions West at Epcot.

New! Rapid Fill Mug New Designs Now at Walt Disney World Resort Hotels: Last week, we announced the new mug design was coming and this week, we have already seen them out at a few resorts. The new mugs feature a brand-new design, new colors (blue, red, yellow and purple) and a sticker on top of the mug that advises Guests to activate mug at cashier.

New! Downtown Disney Marketplace Boat Dock Closing: Beginning Feb 22, the Downtown Disney Marketplace boat dock will be closed temporarily. The Sassagoula River Cruise docking location will relocate to the Pleasure Island boat dock during this time. In addition, internal boat transportation (water taxi) service for Downtown Disney Guests will only be available between the Downtown Disney Pleasure Island and West Side docks. The Downtown Disney Marketplace dock is expected to reopen this fall.

Reminder! Epcot’s Ziti Sisters Final Performance: Effective Sunday, February 23, the Ziti Sisters atmosphere entertainment group that performs in World Showcase/Italy will be closing. The last performance will be Saturday, Feb 22. Epcot will continue to have a rich mix of atmosphere entertainment throughout the World Showcase pavilions.

Reminder! 2014 Pro Soccer Classic from Feb 19 to March 1: The MLS and Orlando City Soccer Club return to the Walt Disney World REsort for the 2014 Pro Soccer Classic from Feb 19th through March 1st. This action-packed event gives fan an up close and personal look at their favorite hometown club as they square off against their future MLS rivals at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, home to Orlando City Soccer in 2014. Single and multiple session passes are on sale and parking is free!

New! Merchandise Events:

February 14-21: Are you a fan of David E. Doss? Mark your calendars, David will be appearing daily at Art of Disney in Downtown Disney Marketplace. Stop in and find a new piece of art to ad to your collection.
February 21-23: Precious Moments dolls at Once Upon a Toy (Linda Rick tentative appearance)
February 22: Make sure to mark your calendar for a special Steampunk artist signing at Art of Disney in Downtown Disney Marketplace as we celebrate the release of artwork and collectibles inspired by turn of the century inventors and writers, as well as artwork inspired by Disney attractions, icons and innovations that have been cultivated from this view of the future from the past. Disney Design Group artists Costa Alavezos, Alex Maher and Mike Sullivan will be on hand from 2-5 pm to sign their masterpieces.
February 26-March 2: Artist Greg McCullough will be on hand for a special artist showcase at Art of Disney in Downtown Disney Marketplace.

Closures and Refurbishments

Magic Kingdom

Casey’s Corner Jan 6 – Feb 19, 2014
Splash Mountain Jan 6 – Mar 21, 2014
Splashdown Photos Jan 6 – Mar 21, 2014
Agrabah Bazaar Jan 7 – Feb 13, 2014
Liberty Square Riverboat Jan 21 – Mar 21, 2014
Monorail – MK Express Jan 21 – Mar 21, 2014
Pinocchio’s Village Haus Feb 17 – Mar 30, 2014
The Plaza Restaurant Feb 17 – Mar 15, 2014
Tip Board Cart – Closing Permanently Feb 26, 2014
Big Thunder Mountain Apr 7 -9, 2014
Pirates of the Caribbean April 28 – May 1, 2014

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Backlot Tour Jan 5 – Mar 1, 2014

Epcot

None

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Festival of the Lion King Jan 6, 2014-summer
Camp Minnie-Mickey Jan 6, 2014 – permanent closure

Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park

Closed for Annual Refurbishment Dec 22, 2013-Mar 17, 2014

Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

Sports – Resort Lobby Construction Feb 17 – Mar 9, 2014
Game Point Arcade – Closed due to Lobby/Corridor work Feb 17-Mar 9, 2014

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas

Lobby Decorative Shield Rehab – Construction between 9am and 5pm, Mar 10-14, 2014
Kiddie Pool Wet Deck – Only wet deck is closed, pool will remain open Jan 21 – Feb 14, 2014

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village

Uwanja Camp – Kiddie Pool Wet Deck – Only wet deck is closed, pool will remain open Jan 21 – Feb 28, 2014

Disney’s Boardwalk Villas

Villas Quiet Pool & Spa Feb 10-Mar 14, 2014

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Bay Lake Tower Kiddie Pool Wet Deck – Only wet deck is closed, pool will remain open Feb 10-28, 2014
Monorail – Magic Kingdom Resort – Restricted Service – Monorail service will be temporarily suspended on weekdays between 11:30am and 7:00pm. Buses and watercraft transportation will be available Jan 21 – Mar 21, 2014.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Guest rooms and buildings throughout Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa will be refurbished starting in early January and scheduled to complete in August. Guest buildings will be taken out of inventory and will not be occupied by Guests while work is being performed.
Monorail – Magic Kingdom Resort – Restricted Service – Monorail will be temporarily suspended on weekdays between 11:30am and 7pm. Buses and watercraft transportation will be available Jan 21 – Mar 21, 2014.

Disney’s Old Key West

Gurging Suitcase Feb 5 – 28, 2014

Disney’s Polynesian Resort

General Construction Dec 2013 – Mar 2015
The Never Land Club Jan 28 – Apr 27, 2014
Great Ceremonial House Lobby March-December 2014
Beach & Sunset Point Access to the east portion of the beach, near the Transportation and Ticket Center, and Sunset Point will be unavailable due to a scheduled refurbishment.
Some rooms in certain room categories in impacted buildings have been taken off the market during the renovation period.
Monorail – Magic Kingdom Resort – Restricted Service – Monorail service will be temporarily suspended on weekdays between 11:30am and 7:00pm. Buses and watercraft transportation will be available Jan 21 – Mar 21, 2014.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Doubloon Lagoon Pool – transportation will be provided for Guests to swim at Ol’ Man Island Pool at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort Jan 13 – Feb 28, 2014

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside will be undergoing roof construction on building 90 starting Jan 13. The construction is estimated to continue through the end of February.

Downtown Disney Area

Cap’n Jack’s Marina – Closed
Parking Lots H, I, J, K – Closed
Fuego – closed
Wetzels Pretzels – closed 10/20/13
Team Mickey Athletic Club Jan 27 – Jun 13, 2014
Bridge between the West Side and Pleasure Island is temporarily closed through this fall as work on The Landing continues. Additional temporary closures include the “top of the hill” on Pleasure Island and the nearby restrooms.
Walls are up in Keith’s Park (between LEGO and T-REX) to divert Guest traffic around the site of the upcoming Marketplace Causeway project. When complete later this year, this land bridge will span between Rainforest Cafe and LEGO Imagination Center and will provide Guests with multiple ways to explore the Marketplace and will offer picturesque views of Village Lake.
Beginning Feb 22, the Downtown Disney Marketplace boat dock will temporarily close. During this time, the Sassagoula River Cruise docking location will relocate to the Pleasure Island boat dock. In addition, internal boat transportation (Water Taxi) service for Downtown Disney Guests will only be available between the Downtown Disney Pleasure Island and West Side docks. The Downtown Disney Marketplace dock is expected to reopen this fall.

Disney Golf Courses/Miniature Golf

Winter course at Disney’s Winter Summerland Miniature Golf will be closed due to refurbishment.

Disneyland Resort in California

Reminder: Disneyland Resort Offers Two or Three Days of Fun at Special Prices for Southern California Residents: Southern California residents can “show their Disney side” in 2014 as the Disneyland Resort once again presents a ticket offer especially for them, with options for two or three days of fun and adventure at the parks 0 all at special prices. Southern California residents may purchase a 2-day ticket with their choice of one park per day for just $129, a 2-day Park Hopper ticket for just $164, a 3-day ticket with their choice of one park per day for just $159, or a 3-day Park Hopper for just $194. (Jan 6 to June 6, 2014. Blockout dates March 31-April 20, 2014)

Reminder! New Club 33 Platinum, Executive and Affiliate Membership Cards: Beginning Feb 17, Club 33 cards are RFID-enabled and utilize the branding of Disney Premier Passport. The cards resemble the Disney Premier Passport and have the Club 33 logo on the front. After February 10, 2014, previous Platinum, Executive and Affiliate Membership Cards (black with silver Club 33 logo) are no longer valid for park entry at the Disneyland Resort or Walt Disney World Resort.

New! Merchandise Events

February 22: Join us as we celebrate the launch of the newest exhibit to line the walls of The Disney Gallery in Disneyland park inspired by Steampunk. Make sure to mark your calendar for a special artist signings at Dinseyana as we celebrate the release of artwork and collectibles inspired by turn of the century inventors and writers, as well as artwork inspired by Disney attractions, icons and innovations that have been cultivated from this view of the future from the past.
February 22-23: Stop in and check out the latest releases from artist M. Andonia from 1 – 4pm each day at WonderGround Gallery in Downtown Disney District.
Scheduled to appear as the Artist in Residence at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District throughout February is artist Liana Hee. Look for special showcases on the following dates: February 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 from 5-9pm.

Closures and Refurbishments

Click here to download the latest renovations and closures at Disneyland.

Universal Orlando Resort

Reminder: Robin Thicke Set to Perform This Saturday at Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras Celebration: The excitement of Mardi Gras continues this Saturday, Feb 22, with an electrifying performance by R&B sensation Robin Thicke. 4:00pm – French Quarter Courtyard Opens, 7:15pm – Mardi Gras Parade Starts, 8:00pm – Concert Begins

Reminder: Guests Can Enjoy the Spirit of the Big Easy at Universal Studios Florida on Saturday and Select Nights though May 31: Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is underway and continues though May 31. Along with the live concert, guests can experience the spirit of the legendary Bayou bash during the dazzling Mardi Gras parade, featuring 12 vibrant floats, including three new additions celebrating Jules Verne’s novel, “Around the World in 80 Days.” Guests can also visit Universal Studios Florida’s very own French Quarter Courtyard to enjoy delectable Cajun cuisine and see performances by bands pulled straight from Bourbon Street. The excitement of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida.

Austin Mahone to Play Hard Rock Live at Universal Orlando: Wed Feb 26, 7:00pm: This show was previously scheduled for Oct 18. Tickets to the previous show will be honored. Doors open at 6:00pm. Tickets are $29.50. Telephone: 407-351-LIVE (5483).

Velvet Sessions at Hard Rock Hotel with Edwin McCain Feb 27, 2014: Admission is $29 on-line or $35 at the door and includes FREE speciality drinks and finger foods, as well as warm-up tunes from 6:30-8:30pm, plus FREE valet parking. Cash bars and live band from 8:00pm onward. Velvet Bar hosts the city’s only rock ‘n’ roll cocktail party on the last Thursday of the month. Each “session” combines creative cocktails with live music from some of the hottest rock bands.

Complimentary Wi-Fi at onsite Universal Orlando Resort Hotels: As of January 22, 2014 onsite guests will receive complimentary Wi-Fi in their rooms at all four resort hotels at Universal Orlando. There will be two levels of service. The Premium Wireless will be complimentary for up to four devices in the room which will be optimal for surfing the web and checking email. There will be an option to upgrade to Premium Plus for $14.95 per day up to 8 devices – 3 meg. This will be optimal for streaming music, entertainment, VPN and Large file transfers. Complimentary Premium Wi-Fi in the common areas will continue as normal.

Closures and Refurbishments

Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Jurassic Park River Adventure®: 2/18 – 2/27

Universal Studios

Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular: 2/22, 2/26 & 3/1: No shows scheduled

Hollywood icon and Disney Legend Dick Van Dyke to appear at Walt Disney’s Carolwood Barn

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 23, 2014

Chip and Co. has an awesome article all about Walt’s Barn, and recently, I was very lucky to co-host an interview with Cathy, a representative from the barn. Now it seems the barn is in the Disney hot news once again! Dick Van Dyke, Disney Legend and star, will be making a rare public appearance at Walt Disney’s Carolwood Barn on Sunday March 16th from 11am – 3pm. Mr. Van Dyke is scheduled to appear on behalf of the Carolwood Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to Walt Disney’s railroad legacy. Memorabilia will be available for signing during the event, with all proceeds benefiting the Foundation.

Dick Van Dyke is a Hollywood icon starring in over 15 films including Disney’s Mary Poppins and over 25 television shows, including the long running The Dick Van Dyke Show. A Tony, Grammy and multiple Emmy award winner, Mr. Van Dyke was given The Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012 by the Screen Actors Guild at their annual ceremony. Mr. Van Dyke has been closely associated with the Walt Disney Company since Walt personally asked him to play Bert in Mary Poppins. From there he went on to star in other Disney projects such as Never A Dull Moment, Lt. Robin Crusoe, U.S.N., Dick Tracy and TV’s The Golden Girls. Because of his immense contributions to the Walt Disney Company, Dick Van Dyke was named a Disney Legend in the film category in 2008.

In anticipation of this special signing event, visitors are asked to observe the following guidelines: Only one item per person will be autographed; no personalization or posed pictures will be allowed. All items to be autographed must be purchased from the Carolwood Foundation, although a single outside item may be substituted for a purchased item. Parking is free, but very limited. On-street parking is available in Griffith Park from dawn to dusk. Carpools are highly recommended. The Foundation cannot guarantee that every guest will be able to meet Mr. Van Dyke. All scheduled activities are subject to change without notice. For information about this and upcoming events at Walt Disney’s Barn, please follow them facebook or on Twitter (@waltsbarn).

Disney World is Raising Ticket Prices Again

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 23, 2014

I am not shocked that Disney World is raising ticket prices, but I am slightly shocked they are raising ticket prices again so early in the year.

Sadly starting this Sunday, a one day ticket to the Magic Kingdom for an adult or child over the age of 10 will now be $99.00 a day. A one day ticket to Epcot, Animal Kingdom , and Hollywood Studios will now cost you $94.00 a day for an adult or child over the age of 10.

If you are an Annual Passholder, your rates are going as well.

A regular Annual Pass will be $634.00 plus tax
The Premium Annual Pass will be $754.00
The Florida Resident Pass will be $485.00
The Florida Resident Premium Annual Pass will be be $605.00
The Florida Resident Seasonal Pass will be $319.00

This is the 2nd ticket price increase in less than a year.

“Our pricing reflects the high quality and breadth of experiences we offer and our ongoing commitment to investing in our parks,” Disney spokesman Bryan Malenius said Saturday. “We offer a variety of ticket options that provide a great value, and find that most guests select multi-day tickets that offer additional savings.”

What are you thoughts on the price hike?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Kinsey Collection “Re-Discovering America” Debuts at Epcot

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 23, 2014

If you will be visiting The American Adventure pavilion at Epcot, you will see some new additions as part of an expansion of ”Re-Discovering America: Family Treasures from the Kinsey Collection” this spring.

Disney Imagineers, along with philanthropists Bernard, Shirley and Khalil Kinsey, have been adding new artifacts and display cases to the exhibit.

“The Kinsey Collection shares the powerful and previously untold stories of those who dared to dream,” said Erin Youngs, vice president of Epcot. “Representing more than 400 years of African-American achievement and history, the Kinsey Collection showcases the best of the American spirit with a nod to ingenuity and innovation. We are delighted to expand the exhibit and bring even more of these treasures to Epcot guests.”

Hope and courage are the theme to the exhibit. It provides stories of American history. The exhibit pays tribute to African Americans who helped build and transform a nation.

New additions to the exhibit this spring include:

Distribution of Population in New York, 1801 – At the Philadelphia Convention of 1787, states with smaller populations voiced their concern about representation at the federal level. This resulted in the Three-Fifths Compromise stating that only three-fifths of the slave population would be counted in the census. The Distribution of Population in New York, 1801 was one of the first few census calculations done by the state of New York following the compromise.
Noon Wash by artist Jonathan Green — Passionate about promoting cross-cultural fine art, Green reflects an inherent sense of history and place as he shares the story of the southern experience. His work with acrylic and oil paints reflect the hope of African Americans throughout history. A number of his works are inspired by his upbringing in the Gullah community of coastal South Carolina.
Slave Songs of the United States – Published in 1867, this original collection of African American music was the first of its kind. Northern abolitionists William Francis Allen, Charles Pickard Ware and Lucy McKim Garrison collected 136 songs from the slaves of Southern plantations, phonetically recording them as they heard them, in an effort to preserve the unique and powerful art form.
Tintype Photographs – Popularized in the mid-1850s, tintypes were easier to produce than previous methods and made photographs accessible to more people. Though their names have been lost to history, the subjects of the tintype portraits included in the exhibit continue to share their stories of courage .
Carte de Visite – Following a similar printing process as tintypes, carte de visite photographs were easier and more economical to produce, with the image printed on a high quality paper. The carte de visite photographs being added to the Courage portion of the exhibit feature African American soldiers from both sides of the Civil War

The Kinsey family’s private collection features rare art and artifacts that have been displayed throughout the U.S., including the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.

Since it opened at Epcot on March 8, 2013, about 40 pieces have been displayed at the exhibit where guests are able to use touch screens to further explore the art and history.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Disney Dining Reviews for Gluten Free & Dairy Free Guests Now Available in a New App

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 23, 2014

If you have a special dietary needs and travel to the Walt Disney World Resort, you can now find Disney dining reviews for those dietary needs in a iPhone mobile app called YoDish. Sarah Norris owner of Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW and a writer for Chip & Co. has teamed up with YoDish, the startup behind the free iPhone app for restricted dining out to provide a long list of excellent gluten free and dairy free meals from across more than 50 restaurants at the Walt Disney World Resort. Now special diets diners can truly say, “There’s an app for that!” YoDish serves up Sarah’s meal photos and comments for the restaurants closest to the app user with links to the full review of each restaurant on Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW.

Justin Cunningham founded YoDish to provide special diet communities a platform for sharing dining out experiences, and he immediately recognized the opportunity for YoDish to extend the reach of Sarah’s extensive resource to a new audience looking for restaurant meals on-the-go. Justin and Sarah met at the first annual Food Allergy Bloggers Conference in November 2013 and began
working on the joint effort soon thereafter.

“Our vision at YoDish is to show those with restricted diets everywhere the suitable restaurant dishes closest to them,” said Justin. “Sarah’s contribution of gluten free and dairy free meals at Walt Disney World is a huge step toward the realization of that dream.”

Sarah and Justin are now encouraging others who manage dietary restrictions to post reviews to expand the impact of the resource. Anyone with an iPhone can download the app for free, see reviews by folks with similar restrictions, and post reviews of their own dining experiences to “pay it forward”.

“We limit reviews to 250 characters, so it is really very quick to add a picture of your meal and a brief comment. It’s like tweeting or sharing a photo with Instagram.”

“Seeing photos of real meals helps diners start the conversation with Disney’s Special Diets Department in advance of their visit or be better prepared when speaking with Disney Chefs onsite, so it is important for as many people to contribute as possible,” said Sarah.

Depending on your dietary profile and geographic location, you may or may not see many dishes near you right now since YoDish is a relatively new resource. The more reviews you add in your own area, the faster the community will grow. However, you can be sure that many meals will entice you on your next gluten free, dairy free trip to Walt Disney World.

ABOUT YODISH
YoDish, a free iPhone app, enables people with gluten intolerance and food allergies as well as vegetarians and vegans to share their restaurant dining experiences while on-the-go. YoDish is socially driven and leverages FourSquare’s global locations database to provide users an instant list of the restaurants near their current location. Users can post their dish reviews in the app as well as to Facebook, Twitter, and FourSquare. Justin and Emily Cunningham, whose daughter has been diagnosed with severe allergies to dairy, eggs, peanuts, and tree nuts, understand the challenges involved in eating out with dietary restrictions. Learn more about and download YoDish at http://bit.ly/YoDish

ABOUT GLUTEN-FREE & DAIRY-FREE AT WDW
Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW was founded by Sarah Norris in 2009 and is the top source for gluten free and dairy free dining information at the Walt Disney World Resort. Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW contains reviews, tips, tricks and trip planning resources to assist those visiting Disney with a special diet. In addition to resources found on the Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW site, those interested in special diets at Walt Disney World can also find on-the-go information through the site’s podcast, found on iTunes.

When Sarah isn’t sharing planning tips about the Walt Disney World Resort, you can find her at Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW where she writes dining reviews and shares tips and tricks about dining at Disney with a special diet.

Tables in Wonderland Event at Raglan Road

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 23, 2014

Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant will be hosting this Tables in Wonderland Event

Modern Irish Food Luncheon Demonstration

March 12, 2014 at 1:00pm

$49.94 + tax & gratuity

From the very successful PBS show Modern Irish Food and based on his new cook book with the same name, celebrity chef Kevin Dundon shares his inspiration for his first American series with a lunch demonstration at Raglan Road.

There will be an extensive 4 course luncheon with wine pairings. Kevin will show you how to create each dish along with helpful tips.

Modern Irish Food Luncheon Menu

Espresso of courgette & almond soup
Domaine Chandon , Brut, Napa

Homemade potato gnocchi with seared
scallops & crispy pork belly
Voceret ,Estate Bottled, Chablis, France

Pulled corned beef & cabbage infused with an Asian broth
Chalone Estate, Pinot noir, Chalone, California

Upside-down steamed orange pudding with caramelized
clotted cream
Inniskillin, Ice Wine, Canada

Unveiling of The Raglan Road Cookbook Signature Dinner

March 13, 2014 at 6:30pm

$115.00 + tax & gratuity

As part of Raglan Road’s annual Mighty St Patrick’s Festival celebrations, celebrity chef Kevin Dundon is hosting a very special Signature Dining Event. If you have attended any of Kevin’s previous signature dinners will know he never fails to surprise and delight and this event will be no different with an amazing 5 course dinner with wine pairings.

The event is not just part of the Mighty St Patrick’s celebrations but also the unveiling of the Raglan Road Cookbook.

Unveiling of The Raglan Road Cookbook Signature Dinner Menu

Horseradish infused Carpaccio of beef with crispy vegetables
Domaine Chandon Brut Rose, Napa

Dublin bay prawn bisque
Provenance, Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley

Smoked haddock, potato, tomatoes & vintage
Dubliner cheddar bake
Chalone Estate, Chardonnay, Chalone, California

Guinness glazed roast loin of pork filled with sage and onion stuffing with colcannon potatoes
Provenance, P Wave, Red Blend, Napa, California

Crème brûlée topped with our famous bread & butter pudding
Inniskillin, Ice Wine, Canada

To reserve a spot in either event, please call Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant at 407-938-0300.
Tables in Wonderland discount applies.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Disney adds an Extra Weekend to Star Wars Weekends

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

February 23, 2014

Darth Sidious, has issued a new galactic decree.

When the Rebel Alliance heard about the Emperor’s plans, which came in the form of a hidden message, they decided to extend Star Wars Weekends to 1 more weekend this year.

Here are the new dates by order of galactic decree:

Weekend I: May 16 – 18, 2014

Weekend II: May 23 – 25, 2014

Weekend III: May 30 – June 1, 2014

Weekend IV: June 6 – 8, 2014

Weekend V: June 13 – 15, 2014

Disney announced that James Arnold Taylor will return to Star Wars Weekends this year. He will be the official celebrity host.

In case you haven’t heard the theme for this year is, “Join the Rebellion.”

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

MALEFICENT IS COMING !

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 22, 2014

Maleficent is coming to a theatre near you on May 30, 2014! Walt Disney Studios just released several still photos of scenes from the upcoming new picture starring Angelina Jolie. Maleficent is based on the untold story of Disney’s most iconic villain, from one of the great classics, Sleeping Beauty. The movie takes us through the series of events that turned Maleficent into the evil villain we all know and hate. Betrayal, a heart of stone and a strong desire to protect what is hers forces Maleficent to place an irrevocable curse on Aurora, the infant daughter of the human King. As Aurora grows she is placed in the middle of the battle between the forest kingdom (which she loves) and the human kingdom (which holds her legacy). Filled with hatred and a need for revenge, Maleficent realizes, Aurora may be the key to peace in the lands, and takes drastic measures that change both worlds forever. Maleficent, the movie co-stars Sharlto Copley, Elle Fanning, Sam Riley, Imelda Staunton, Juno Temple and Lesley Manville.

From the screenplay written by Linda Woolverton, Maleficent is produced by Joe Roth and directed by Robert Stromberg. Angelina Jolie, Don Hahn, Palak Patel, Matt Smith and Sarah Bradshaw are executive producers.

Don’t miss the premiere of Maleficent and see the untold story of one of the world’s most iconic Disney villains.

My name is Loretta and I am the Entertainment Writer for Chip and Co. and a Travel Agent with Destinations in Florida Travel. I would be happy to help you plan your next Amazing Magical Adventures to your favorite destinations.Contact me today at [email protected] and visit my Facebook page for travel tips and promotions.

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St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Invites Wearin’ of the Green at Downtown Disney March 7-17

By

Chip

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February 22, 2014

Music and merriment abound when the most authentic St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Central Florida comes to Downtown Disney March 7-17.

The celebration at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant and throughout Downtown Disney pays homage to Celtic culture with nearly 10 top Irish bands and pro dancers performing on three stages during select days of the festival. With performances starting nightly March 7-14 from 5 to 1 a.m. March 15-17 on stages indoors and out, guests can don their finest green duds and join in a jig or two.

Highlights of the celebration across Downtown Disney will include:

Performances by The Willis Clan, world-famous U2 tribute band Elevation, Goitse, Three Dollar Band, We Banjo 3, The Ragland Rebels, The Brazen Heads and Raglan Road house bands Creel and The West Coast Trio
The Raglan Road Dancers — seven full-time champion dancers, performing daily
Renowned Irish dancer and choreographer Ronan McCormack of the original Riverdance cast, leading Irish Dance Workshops “From Roots to Riverdance”
Ceili (kay-lee) traditional music and structured set-dancing event, during which host Ronan McCormack invites guest participation

Additional entertainment inspired by the Emerald Isle will include more than 50 musicians and dancers, face painting, stilt walkers, living statues and giveaways. Guests will find it’s easy being green at The Mighty Family Zone on the West Side, a new offering during the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival, where guests can snag a photo with Kermit, learn how to draw everyone’s favorite frog, take part in games and DJ dance parties, and more.

Also new this year: the four Disney Food Trucks (Fantasy Fair, Namaste Café, Superstar Catering and World Showcase of Flavors) will serve delicious eats each evening of the festival at Downtown Disney West Side, including a special St. Patrick’s Day-themed cupcake. Guests can also purchase Fisherman’s Pie, a favorite dish from the Ireland kiosk at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, at the World Showcase of Flavors Food Truck.

Guests can order from the popular Raglan Road lunch, dinner and bar menus throughout the event. Irish celebrity chef Kevin Dundon of Raglan Road will bring traditional Irish flavors to Downtown Disney with dishes such as loin of bacon and cabbage, and guests will find a hearty selection of beers on tap.

The restaurant’s Cooke’s of Dublin counter-service eatery will offer Irish favorites like fish and chips, battered sausages and deep-fried candy bars, and guests will discover additional food and specialty drinks created just for the festival at select Downtown Disney restaurants.

On Monday, St. Patrick’s Day, guests will be seated at Raglan Road on a first-come, first-served basis with a cover charge of $10 for each guest age 18 and older. Reservations can be booked for other festival days by calling 407/938-0300. For more information visit Disneyworld.com/StPatricksDay.

FastPass+ Character Meet & Greets at Walt Disney World

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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February 22, 2014

So with the New FastPass+ now available at all Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks, I’m sure you have tons of questions as to what exactly can you use the FastPass+ on? Well, I’m here to answer some of those questions, starting with the very popular one, “Are the Character Meet & Greets available for FastPass+?” and the answer is Yes! Now, do keep in mind, not all Character Meet and Greets are available for FastPass+, just a few and I’ll name them all here for you. 😉

Magic Kingdom

Meet Ariel at Her Grotto in the New Fantasyland
Meet Talking Mickey Mouse at the Town Square Theater on Main Street USA
Meet Rapunzel and Cinderella along with a Visiting Princess at Princess Fairytale Hall in Fantasyland

Epcot

Meet the Disney Pals at the Character Spot in Future World (Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse & Goofy)

Animal Kingdom

Meet your favorite Disney Pals at the Adventurers Outpost (Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse)

Ok, that’s the Character Meet & Greet’s available for FastPass+, if Disney add’s more to the list, you can rest assured that we at Chip & Co. will update you as soon as we get the heads up. 🙂

Now I’m sure you all have more questions regarding FastPass+, for instance, “How can I set up my FastPasses?” Well, if you have a MagicBand, Seasonal or Annual Pass you can easily log into your MDX (My Disney Experience) account online or using the app on your smartphone, click where it says FastPass+ and on the next screen you pick the date, then the park and finally your selection. If you do not have a MagicBand or MDX will not let you make your selections, you will then visit one of the FastPass+ Kiosks at one of the 4 major Disney Theme Parks and set up your FastPasses using either your MYW (Magic Your Way) Ticket or Pass (Seasonal or Annual Pass) and there is always a CM (Cast Member) there to assist you if you have any questions or technical issues.

If you need more information on the MagicBands and FastPass+, the writers at Chip and Co. always have an article that will assist you.

And remember.. “We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.” ~ Walt Disney

We hope you have a Magical Day! ºoº