Disney Legend to Appear at Walt’s Barn

By

-

January 31, 2014

Mr. Jack Lindquist, Disney Legend and first President of Disneyland, will be making an appearance at Walt Disney’s Barn located in Griffith Park, CA on February 16th from 1pm – 3pm 2013. Mr. Lindquist will be signing copies of his memoir “In Service to the Mouse” which will be available for purchase at the barn the day of the event.

Mr. Lindquist began his career with Disney in 1955 when Walt Disney himself hired Mr. Lindquist to be the first Marketing Manager at Disneyland. Mr. Lindquist quickly rose through he ranks becoming Director of Marketing, then vice-president of Marketing for both Disneyland and Walt Disney World, followed by executive vice-president of marketing and entertainment for Disney’s outdoor recreation activities. Mr. Lindquist took his final climb to the top of the ladder when he became the first president of Disneyland in 1990. Mr. Lindquist retired from the Walt Disney Company in 1993 and was honored later that year with a window on Main Street at Disneyland. In 1994, Mr. Lindquist was inducted into the Disney Legends with Roy E Disney presenting him his award. Bill Barbe, Carolwood Foundation President stated, “We are very excited and looking forward to hosting Jack at Walt Disney’s Barn and I know our guests look forward to meeting him and hearing some inside stories about his tenure with the Walt Disney Company and Disneyland.”

Walt Disney’s Barn is operated on behalf of the Walt Disney Family Foundation by the non-profit Carolwood Foundation, 501 (c) 3 charity. The foundations purpose is to preserve Walt Disney’s legacy and his love of trains for future generations. Walt Disney’s Barn is located at the Los Angeles Live Steamers property in Griffith Park, CA and is open the third Sunday of every month. Admission is free. You can learn more about Walt’s Barn by clicking HERE.

Anna and Elsa to Join the Festival of Fantasy Parade at Walt Disney World

By

Anonymouse

-

January 31, 2014

Hiya fellow Disney Addicts! Now the party can start because Anonymouse has arrived. I have some really good Anna and Elsa gossip for you today. Shhhh don’t tell Chippy!

We all know how popular “Frozen” has become right? Well it has been brought to my attention that Anna and Elsa may be a last minute entry into the new Festival of Fantasy Parade. I am assuming Disney has taken notice as to how popular the sisters are and have decided they would be a big hit in the new parade, and I do agree!

The Festival of Fantasy Parade will debut around mid-March of this year. I know I can’t wait to see it.

Keep in mind Disney has never confirmed what characters will be appearing in the parade, but as soon as we know you will know.

What do you think?

Anywho that is all the Disney gossip I have right now. For my past gossip articles be sure to check them out here. Got any good gossip/rumors, please email me at [email protected] or on my Facebook page.

Chip and Company/Disney Addict Meet Up at the Magic Kingdom!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 31, 2014

Hey everyone… You asked and so we responded! We will be having our first of many more meet ups for Chip and Co readers as well as our Disney Addicts on February 22nd from 11a-11p at the Magic Kingdom! We will meet at the Fire Station on Main Street USA and get as much done in 12 hours as possible! Come for a little bit or hang out all day! To join the event, RSVP on Facebook for more info and more!

Click here to join the Meetup and RSVP!!!!

We are going to do prizes, group pics, and more! Please come back soon for more info! We will also be having a cheer section for the 10K that morning, so that weekend is going to be full of Chip and Co and Disney Addict fun!!!

Disney Cast Members Help With an “Extreme Village Makeover”

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 31, 2014

In a “Move that bus” moment on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” dozens of Cast Members from Walt Disney World Resort joined Central Florida community leaders to unveil an ”Extreme Village Makeover” at Give Kids the World.

The non-profit organization provides memorable, magical and free accommodations to thousands of children with life-threatening illnesses who wish for a special trip to Central Florida’s theme parks.

As part of this one-of-a-kind project, Disney Cast Members dedicated countless hours to redesign and renovate a building to honor the thousands of volunteers who serve the children and their families at the Give Kids the World Village. Located in Kissimmee, Florida, the beautifully re-imagined space features a registration area and lounge, as well as a floor-to-ceiling, inspirational mural created with hundreds of photos from the personal moments shared between volunteers and families.

“Our Cast Members were thrilled to help with this ‘Extreme Village Makeover,’ which is one of the latest examples of our commitment to Give Kids the World,” said Nancy Gidusko, director of community relations for Walt Disney World Resort. “Whether through donated theme park tickets, Disney character entertainment or through the heartfelt service of thousands of Disney VoluntEARS each year, our hope is that these special children and their families return home with cherished memories from their visit to Central Florida.”

Walt Disney World and its Cast Members have been involved with Give Kids the World since its founding more than 25 years ago, helping to provide an escape from the real world of medical treatments and doctor appointments. Last year alone, thousands of Disney VoluntEARS provided more than 40,000 hours of service to help fulfill the wishes of families staying at the Give Kids theWorld Village.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

New Walt Disney World Theme Park Maps Coming Soon

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 31, 2014

Now let me ask you… Are you a Guidemaps guest or do you like having the My Disney Experience app to help guide you throughout the parks when needed?

Well if you’re a guidesmap sort of guest, you’ll love this…

There will be New Guidemaps at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park and Magic Kingdom starting February 4th 2014. The new guidemaps will be updated with MyMagic+ service centers and resources as well as FastPass+ kiosks locations. This will definitely help guest while they are in the parks.

The new guidemaps will be in English but they’ve also been updated with five (5) translations and will include the Guide for Guests with Disabilities. All Parks and Guest Service locations throughout Walt Disney World property will have the new guidemaps no later than Tuesday February 4th if not sooner.

So, if you’re heading to the parks soon, pick one up and let us know what you think?

Ivon is currently a Disney Dining Cast Member as well a Disney Annual Passholder and full fledge Disney Addict who’s been vacationing with her family of 8 to Walt Disney World for over 38 years. She also shares her love of all things Disney on her own site, Diclajia’s Disney Dreams.

Take an Exclusive look at “Need for Speed”

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 31, 2014

DreamWorks Pictures announced today that they will debut a new exclusive look at “Need for Speed” during The Big Game on Sunday, February 2. After the spot airs during the game, fans can watch an extended version on YouTube.com/NeedForSpeed. In conjuction with the release of the new footage, fans can enter a Twitter sweepstakes for a chance to win prizes provided by Continental Tire, MagnaFlow, DreamWorks and EA

DreamWorks Pictures’ “Need for Speed” marks an exciting return to the great car culture films of the 1960s and ’70s, when the authenticity of the world brought a new level of intensity to the action on-screen. Tapping into what makes the American myth of the open road so appealing, the story chronicles a near-impossible cross-country journey for our heroes — one that begins as a mission for revenge, but proves to be one of redemption. Based on the most successful racing video game franchise ever with over 150 million units sold, “Need for Speed” captures the freedom and excitement of the game in a real-world setting, while bringing to life the passion for the road that has made our love of cars so timeless.

The film centers around Tobey Marshall (Aaron Paul), a blue-collar mechanic who races muscle cars on the side in an unsanctioned street-racing circuit. Struggling to keep his family-owned garage afloat, he reluctantly partners with the wealthy and arrogant ex-NASCAR driver Dino Brewster (Dominic Cooper). But just as a major sale to car broker Julia Maddon (Imogen Poots) looks like it will save Tobey’s shop, a disastrous race allows Dino to frame Tobey for a crime he didn’t commit, and sending Tobey to prison while Dino expands his business out West.

Two years later, Tobey is released and set on revenge — but he knows his only chance to take down his rival Dino is to defeat him in the high-stakes race known as De Leon. However to get there in time, Tobey will have to run a high-octane, action-packed gauntlet that includes dodging pursuing cops coast-to-coast as well as contending with a dangerous bounty Dino has put out on his car. With the help of his loyal crew and the surprisingly resourceful Julia, Tobey defies odds at every turn and proves that even in the flashy world of exotic supercars, the underdog can still finish first.

The movie releases in U.S. theaters on March 14, 2014.

See Official Rules at www.theneedforspeedmovie.com

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Carrie Fisher Reveals Start Date For ‘Star Wars Episode 7’

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 30, 2014

star wars episode vii logo

In a recent interview with TV Guide, Carrie Fisher may have let it slip when the expected filming for ‘Episode VII’ would begin. She says that she, Mar Hamill, and Harrison Ford will all be back on set in “March or April.” While nothing has officially been confirmed through Disney, the fact that the old gang is reuniting for the next film is currently the worst kept secret in Hollywood. Fisher has been loose on keeping mum, where as Ford, and recently Hamill, have played coy about returning to the series.

Recently, in an Reddit AMA, Hamill was asked about returning and had this to say:

‘The only character I know for sure is returning is my friend R2-D2. He hasn’t stopped beeping about it. Haha. I’m not being coy, really. When I find something out, I’ll let everybody know. But nothing has been decided yet.’

Recent pictures show Mark has also gotten steadily in shape recently, going as far to dye his hair…Gee, I wonder why? Check out the picture below, courtesy of Steven Weintraub of Collider.com, which is a comparison from last May on the left, and last week on the right.

Are you excited for ‘Star Wars Episode VII’, as well as seeing the old cast return? Let me know in the comments below, only here at Chip and Company!

Our Top 5 Shows At Disney’s Hollywood Studios

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 30, 2014

voyage of the little mermaid 2012 04 27 3575

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is known for its great shows. Whether you love Broadway style shows or you’re a fan of shows with tons of action, Hollywood Studios offers something for everyone. Let’s take a look at the top 5 shows that you simply cannot miss.

5. Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show – This attraction came to Hollywood Studios from Disneyland Paris in 2005 as part of the Happiest Celebration On Earth. The show features car chases, motorcycles, explosions, and more! You’ll get a behind the scenes look into how stunts are performed in the movies. If you’re traveling with a Lightning McQueen fan, you’ll definitely want to experience this attraction, as he makes a special appearance in each show.

4. Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! – This stunt show is based on many of the scenes from the popular Indiana Jones film Raiders of the Lost Ark. You will see Indy face booby traps, dangerous bad guys, gun shots (fake of course), and more. The show includes all the makings of a great action film. While you’re watching the show, you will also learn about the magic of film making as the director explains how several of the stunts are performed. And the best part? If you’re 18 or older, you can even get in on the action! A few members of the audience will be chosen to appear as costumed extras in part of the show.

3. Voyage of The Little Mermaid – As the show begins, a light mist and lasers make guests feel as if they are really under the sea with Ariel and friends. This spectacular show tells the story of Ariel through the use of live actors, blacklight puppets, animation, and music. One of the highlights features the award-winning song Under The Sea performed by Sebastian and his blacklight puppet friends. Voyage of The Little Mermaid also features a 12 foot tall Ursula puppet who sings Poor Unfortunate Souls. This is one show you will not want to miss!

2. Beauty and The Beast – Live On Stage – This Broadway style show can be found on Sunset Boulevard. The show originally opened on November 22, 1991 – the same day the animated Beauty & The Beast opened in theaters across the United States. Since then, this amazing show has dazzled Walt Disney World guests. The show features several of the voice talents from the film, as well as many talented actors and actresses. The show’s musical numbers are fantastic and the costumes, especially Belle’s ballgown, are beautiful!

1. Fantasmic! – This show is a great way to end a fun-filled day at Hollywood Studios! Fantasmic! takes you an on adventure into Mickey’s imagination. The show is filled with many of your favorite Disney characters, including characters from Pocahontas, The Lion King, and Beauty & The Beast. Mickey’s imagination also comes to life through the use of pyrotechnics, water screens, and lasers. Recently, Disney has added an opportunity for guests to become part of the show with the new Glow With The Show ear hats.

Did your favorite Hollywood Studios show make the list? Let us know your favorite in the comments below!

10 Things NOT to wear at the Disney Theme Parks

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 30, 2014

There are standards, people. There are some things that you simply cannot get away with when visiting Disney World or Disneyland. Most of these are common sense, of course, some may be new to you. Either way we want to help you plan the most Magical Visit possible with these tips.

The official verbage from Disney indicates that “Disney reserves the right to exclude visitors to their gated attractions who wear clothing that could create a distraction. This policy is in effect at the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney MGM Studios, Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Disney Quest.”

“Proper attire, including shoes and shirts must be worn at all times. The parks are a casual, family-oriented environment. Ensuring that the parks are family-friendly is an important part of the Disney experience. In that spirit, we ask that you use your discretion and common sense.”

My typical mommy uniform at Disney consists of cargo shorts, Mickey Tshirt, braids, Mickey visor, and either sneakers or my beloved Chacos. For what it’s worth, I’ve never been asked to tone it down!

So, you are headed to Disney and are wondering what to pack! Here is a list of things you definitely do NOT want to wear to Disney.

Clothing displaying offensive messages/language.
Adult costumes are a no-no. Children under age 10 are excluded from this policy. Exceptions include Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.
Clothing made of offensive material (see through).
Clothing that is excessively torn.
High heels – even if they are super cute sandals. Did you see the episode of Modern Family where Gloria wore high heels that KILLED her? She ended up wearing slippers that Jay bought her to survive the day at Disney. I think they were Minnie feet? Look, if Gloria can’t manage it…you certainly can’t.
Clothing that exposes inappropriate portions of the body such as string bikini tops, G-strings, bikini bottoms, etc. Would Snow White show a whale-tail? I think not.
Objectionable tattoos – if they have obscene language or graphics – cover ’em up!
I know that it is mentioned above, but let me be clear – you CANNOT walk around the parks just wearing a bikini top. It’s tacky, and against the rules. Even for kids.
Masks (except at Halloween)
Fanny packs – JUST KIDDING! If you must, the fashion police may nab you, but Disney loves a good fanny pack! Same thing goes with Crocs. Again kidding.

Be smart, guys. This is Disney – the Happiest Place on Earth. Dress the part!

Cameron is a Disney Specialist with Destinations to Explore, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. Contact her to book your trip with free services, weekly tips, and goodies for the kids! [email protected]

New House of Blues Smokehouse Quick Service Disney Dining Restaurant Review

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 30, 2014

Hey all, Its Jason (@MedicMayhew) back with another amazing Disney Dining Food Review. This time I am back at the House of Blues at Downtown Disney to try the food at the new Smokehouse. The Smokehouse which was once the ticket window opened last week when people complained about the lack of quick service spots on the West Side of Downtown Disney. House of Blues converted this spot I sat down with Ed the head chef to talk to him about the new menu, and what to expect in the coming future.

First off I want to tell you some details about the new quick service!

Its not offered as a meal yet on Disney Dinning plan, but it will be soon
Hours of operation are from 11:30a- around 10p. This will change based on the weather, time of year, and crowd level.
All the items are made in the kitchen and taken to the Smokehouse, but the food is still yummy and fresh!
Desserts are packaged items, not made by the House of Blues
All the seating is outside in the courtyard. Live music is also played in the courtyard
There is a full bar available at the Smokehouse
Meats are smoked daily!!!

Pulled Pork

Pork was great! Amazing quality, and sauce on the side. The bun was toasted and it was served with crisp and fresh coleslaw! I am a fan of pulled pork, and the quality was great for a quick service place! Exactly what I expected for the House of Blues

Pulled Chicken Sandwich

I will say that I have never been a fan of pulled chicken sandwiches. For some reason, either it misses the point of being a BBQ sandwich or the chicken is downright dry. House of Blues regained my faith in this sandwich. Great flavor, moist, and just the right balance of spice and sauce! All the sauces are the same but they take on their own flavors when placed with the different meats.

Beef Brisket Sandwich

BY FAR MY FAVORITE SANDWICH AT THE SMOKEHOUSE!!! Its not often that I turn down the BBQ sauce because the meat is that good, but here that is exactly what I did. There was a great smoke ring around the meat, it was juicy, and not much fat which makes a great sandwich. I have read some mixed reviews about this sandwich and I will say that the “kinks” of opening day are over, and this sandwich is a hit!!

Smokehouse Ribs

Its hard to find juicy St Louis ribs that fall off the bone. House of Blues have done it again. If you love the ribs inside the House of Blues you are in luck because this is the exact same ribs. Same quality, same sauce, same amazing taste! The only downside to this is you have to be able to sit down with the ribs because its not something you can manage while walking around… well wait that’s not a bad thing at all!!!

Smokehouse Hotdog

Kids and adults alike will love this hot dog. This quality dog comes from Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs, which is one of my favorite brands of dogs. Simple hot dog, chips, mustard and relish. What more can you ask for in something quick to eat before walking in to see a movie, bowling, or even catching a show at La Nouba?

Turkey Leg

Yes Die Hard Turkey leg fans, you can now get your fix of huge Disney turkey legs. This leg is big enough to share with 300 of your closest friends and even the lady holding the flag navigating your group!!! OK i am just kidding, but still this is big enough for 2-4 people to share! Juicy and flavorful meat make this a Disney hit!

Wrap up

Overall I think that the Smokehouse brings something new that the West Side does not have. I will be coming back here to grab a quick sandwich before some fun, or even to grab a small bite to eat with a beer while listening to some amazing local music with some friends. As I say with any of my reviews, I do enjoy this place. I dont know what kind of eater you are, so the only way to see if you like this meal is to go to the House of Blues at Downtown Disney and try the food for yourself! If you see Ed the chef, tell him Jason from Chip and Co sent you! He is a great guy to talk to, and genuinely loves what he does!

I would love for you to follow me on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!!!

DSC 0058

DSC 00631

DSC 0060

DSC 0062

Disney Parks 2014 Planning DVD

By

Chip

-

January 30, 2014

2014 01 30 12 18 35 Vacation Planning Tools Disney Parks

It looks like the 2014 Disney Parks Planning DVD’s are starting to ship! Great news if you have been patiently waiting like me. I will be glad to see all the changes including the Fantasyland Expansion information and possibly the mention of Avatarland in the Animal Kingdom.

Just click here to order yours!

When you are ready to Book your next Disney Vacation let us help! My agents will be glad to assist you plan the most Magical Disney Vacation possible! You can use the Request a quote box in the top right corner or email any of my Destinations in Florida agents.

Seaworld Orlando’s Bands, Brew & Bbq Kicks Off February 1st – Alan Jackson And Kid Rock Headline First Weekend

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

-

January 30, 2014

SeaWorld Orlando’s Bands, Brew & BBQ festival features six weekends of rocking concerts, mouth-watering BBQ, thirst-quenching beer and toe-tapping fun. Bands, Brew & BBQ takes place weekends in February (starting this Saturday) through the first two weekends in March (through the 9th).

Bands, Brew & BBQ also celebrates the food! Serious barbecue connoisseurs can taste it all and pick their favorites. Sample Orlando’s best barbecue from local smokehouses — Bubbalou’s Bodacious Bar-B-Que, Cecil’s Texas Style BAR-B-Q and Sonny’s BBQ® – plus SeaWorld’s very own Sweet & Smokin’ Barbecue. Sip on our ice-cold craft beer selection while enjoying live rocking concerts and exciting activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Even the little ones have their own area to get up close to animals, work on masterpieces at coloring stations, take photos with SeaWorld costume characters, learn from educators and play interactive games.

During Bands, Brew & BBQ, all Harley-Davidson® riders get free parking when they ride their hog to SeaWorld. And in between all the eating and line dancing, event-goers can take in the proudly displayed 2014 Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

Alan Jackson opens the SeaWorld festival with a 5 p.m. performance on Saturday, February 1. Kid Rock plays on Sunday, February 2, at 4 p.m. Both concerts are at the park’s Bayside Stadium. Visit SeaWorldOrlando.com for more details.

Like all other events at SeaWorld Orlando, Bands, Brew & BBQ is included with park admission or any annual pass product.

The best way to experience Bands, Brew & BBQ is with a Fun Card; pay for a day and play all year – with no blackout dates – to experience all of SeaWorld’s remarkable events.

Alan Jackson is one of the most successful and respected singer-songwriters in music. He is in the elite company of Paul McCartney and John Lennon among songwriters who’ve written more than 20 songs that they’ve recorded and taken to the top of the charts. Jackson is one of the 10 best-selling artists since the inception of SoundScan, ranking alongside the likes of Eminem and Metallica. His current album, The Bluegrass Album, was released Sept. 24 and debuted #1 on Billboard’s Bluegrass Albums Sales Chart and has remained in the #1 position ever since.

Country superstar Jackson has sold nearly 60 million albums worldwide, topped the country singles charts 35 times, and scored more than 50 Top-10 hits. He has written or co-written 24 of his 35 #1 hit singles. Jackson is an 18-time ACM Award winner, a 16-time CMA Award recipient, and a two-time Grammy-winning artist whose songwriting has earned him the prestigious ASCAP Founders Award and an induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame as a 2011 Songwriter/Artist inductee.

Kid Rock is an American Rock ‘N Roll Icon whose albums have sold over 26 million copies around the world. His most recent “$20 Best Night Ever” tour this past summer sold over 500,000 tickets and was the biggest of his storied career. Kid Rock is also a passionate supporter of those who serve in the US Armed Forces, and a vocal advocate for his hometown of Detroit. A portion of the proceeds from this show will be donated to his Kid Rock Foundation, a 501(c)3 which raises funds and awareness for local and regional charities helping disadvantaged children, victims of war and natural disasters, and those suffering from illness. More information on Kid Rock can be found at his website, www.kidrock.com.