Disney Channel talent search!

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June 29, 2013

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DISNEY CHANNEL AND DISNEY XD ANNOUNCE OPEN CALL AUDITIONS SATURDAY, JULY 27 AND SUNDAY, JULY 28 IN SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

Part of Nationwide Search for Actors, Singers and Dancers Ages 10-17 for Upcoming Series and Movies Produced for Disney Channel and Disney XD

Disney Channel and Disney XD announce this year’s annual open call auditions will take place SATURDAY, JULY 27 and SUNDAY, JULY 28 in San Antonio, Texas. The search for new talent ages 10-17 is part of Disney Channel’s and Disney XD’s ongoing initiative to find cast and develop diverse young actors, singers and dancers for series and movies produced for the kid- and family-targeted channels.

Judy Taylor, senior vice president, Casting and Talent Relations, Disney Channels Worldwide, said, “Our annual open call auditions give kids a unique opportunity to showcase their comedic acting skills and/or singing and dancing ability and be seen by a professional casting director. We look forward to discovering a range of diverse, talented kids at this year’s open call and helping make their dreams come true.”

The open casting call auditions will be held on Saturday, July 27 for last names beginning with A-M and Sunday, July 28 for last names beginning with N-Z from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. on both days at the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter, 101 Bowie St., in downtown San Antonio. All attendees are advised to park at any nearby public parking facility. Parking will not be available at the Marriott Rivercenter.

An application and monologue will be provided upon arrival, and minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There are no guarantees of employment and there will never be any fee to audition for Disney Channel or Disney XD. For more information, applicants can visit DisneyChannel.com/talentsearch.

Disney Cruise Line Tops Customer Satisfaction Rankings

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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June 29, 2013

According to the J.D. Power 2013 Cruise Line Satisfaction Report that was released, Disney Cruise Line tops Customer Satisfaction list. The 2013 Cruise Line Satisfaction Report is based on responses from more than 3,000 customers who traveled on seven different cruise lines in the last 12 months.

The report found that price was the primary reason when choosing a cruise line, followed by past experience with the brand. The report also measured customer satisfaction with cruise lines based on seven factors: service, stateroom, food, embark/debark, entertainment, cost, and excursions.

Disney Cruise Line tops customer satisfaction rankings with a score of 871 (on a 1,000-point scale). This score is significantly higher than the average of 824. Disney Cruise Line also performs particularly well in the entertainment and food factors.

“Many cruise lines in the report have very high levels of passenger satisfaction, well above the report average; however, for more than a year, the overall industry has been dealing with a lot of negative news affecting customer perceptions, expectations and trust,” said Ramez Faza, who is the senior account manager of the global travel and hospitality practice at J.D. Power. “To raise the bar, the industry must focus on meeting the needs of the nearly 20 percent of passengers who experience a problem with their cruise line experience. Cruise lines need to understand the causes of customer dissatisfaction and determine what will motivate them to come back.”

When customers say they “definitely will” return to a particular cruise line, service is the key factor in their decision.

“To retain existing customers or acquire new customers, cruise lines need to be extremely sensitive to the price point that is most comfortable for customers, while providing the highest level of service possible,” said Mr. Faza. “It’s all about perceived value for customers. Did they get their money’s worth? Was the service better than expected? Simply put, cruise lines need to work harder to create an enjoyable experience in which customers feel they are getting a great value for the price. Cruise lines that satisfy their customers and provide them with a reason to cruise again are rewarded with loyal customers.”

Are you thinking about a Disney Cruise? Would you like more information on a Disney Cruise since they top customer satisfaction rankings? Contact Siera to book your next Disney Cruise or request your quote here.

When Siera isn’t helping plan Disney vacations or sharing the latest Disney news, you can find her spreading magic on Facebook and Twitter. Are you thinking about a Disney vacation? Siera is an agent with Destinations in Florida, an authorized Disney vacation planner, and can help you. Plus, can receive up to a $50 in-room credit! Contact her at [email protected] or 734-771-1290!

Stuff you didn’t know about the Main Street Bakery in the Magic Kingdom

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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June 28, 2013

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With Main Street Bakery recently re-opening, you might be wondering how the switch to a Starbucks location has affected the much loved and iconic Magic Kingdom staple. While the location may have been refurbished, the good news is that the bakery has retained much of its charm and ambiance. Here are some questions and answers that may help your experience visiting the new Main Street Bakery.

Does the bakery look different now?

The Main Street Bakery does look a little bit different now; however, it still has the dark wood and chandeliers which are reminiscent of the turn-of-the-century. Cast members still wear Victorian costumes.

Has the dining room been expanded?

The location itself has been expanded to accommodate larger crowds and ease the flow of traffic. Sadly, the dining room seating has been removed. If you’re looking for seating, try outside of the restaurant or at the tables across from the Plaza Restaurant. It has a beautiful view of the castle.

Does the bakery only serve Starbucks items now?

It carries a mix of Starbucks items and Disney items. Beginning at park opening, guests can order Starbucks prepared beverages throughout the day. Only Starbucks items will be served from opening until 11 a.m. This includes beverages, baked goods, and 4 types of hot breakfast options: Bacon and Gouda Artisan Breakfast Sandwich, Ham and Cheddar Artisan Breakfast Sandwich, Sausage and Cheddar Classic Breakfast Sandwich, and Spinach, Feta and Cage Free Egg White Breakfast Wrap. After 11 a.m., guests can also purchase Disney items such as cookies, cupcakes, and brownies.

Is the Starbucks menu a special Disney themed menu?

No. The menu is not specially themed for the Walt Disney World Resort. Starbucks served at the Main Street Bakery are also found at regular Starbucks locations. This includes the full drink menu, grab and go items, baked goods, and breakfast sandwiches. The only difference is that baked goods made at Disney are served after 11 a.m.

Will the cinnamon rolls be back?

Sadly, no. However, guests can get cinnamon rolls at Gaston’s Tavern in New Fantasyland. Rolls at Gaston’s Tavern are not the same cinnamon rolls previously found at Main Street Bakery. At this time, Disney has not announced any plans to bring back the cinnamon roll to Main Street Bakery.

Do the cups look different that regular Starbucks cups?

Cups founds at Main Street Bakery are the Starbucks branded cups; however, they are also branded for Disney Parks.

Will it offer seasonal food and beverages?

The Starbucks menu should reflect seasonal changes, though this hasn’t been officially announced. Disney items such as cupcakes, will likely remain seasonal as well.

Can you use Starbucks gift cards?

Yes! Guests can use their Starbucks gift cards and mobile apps for purchases; however, rewards cannot be redeemed at this location.

Are the prices the same as regular Starbucks locations?

Depending on your location, drink prices may or may not be similar to those at Disney. The prices at the Main Street Bakery appear to be slightly higher than most standard Starbucks locations. For example, at another Florida Starbucks (outside of the theme parks) a venti (large) iced green tea is $2.63 with tax. At Disney, it was $3.19.

Are any of the drinks or food items on the Disney Dining Plan?

All drinks served at Main Street Bakery are eligible as a snack credit on the Disney Dining Plan (DDP). Many grab and go items and baked goods can also be used as snack credits. For breakfast, guests can use 1 quick service credit to purchase a breakfast sandwich and beverage or one beverage, one piece of fruit, and one pastry. The Starbucks menu has the DDP symbol located next to valid options.

Are there any good food and drink options for special diets, like food allergies?

Guests with special dietary needs should be mindful that special products, such as allergy friendly pre-packaged cookies may or may not be available. As of June 2013, the only options available were pre-packaged grab and go items such as fruit, hard boiled eggs, and vegetables. Some guests with special diets may be able to consume Starbucks beverages; however, always check with a cast member regarding ingredients and cross contamination standards. The Starbucks Company policy states that allergen free items are not available because of the use of shared equipment and the handling of allergens throughout the store. Because Disney adheres to strict standards and is running this location, guests may find more accommodation for special diets.

Have you been to the newly re-opened Main Street Bakery? What was your experience there?

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

Yahoo’s Cinema and Spice Celebrate ‘The Lone Ranger”

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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June 28, 2013

This Fourth of July weekend, join Yahoo!’s Cinema & Spice to celebrate the new Lone Ranger film with recipes inspired by the movie, which hits theaters on July 3rd. The best part is that these recipes work for grillers and apartment dwellers alike! Below are links to the easy to follow videos:

Mouth-watering grilled trip-tip steak with zesty chimichurri sauce

http://screen.yahoo.com/grilled-tri-tip-chimichurri-050000665.html

Buttery skillet cornbread made with fresh corn and a touch of jalapeño

http://screen.yahoo.com/lone-ranger-skillet-cornbread-050000234.html

Hi Ho Silver Whiskey Cocktail – combines fresh lemon juice and tangy ginger beer for a super refreshing crowd pleasing warm-weather cocktail

http://screen.yahoo.com/hi-ho-silver-whiskey-cocktail-050000331.html

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

American Airlines And Disney Launch High-Flying Collaboration

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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June 28, 2013

Today American Airlines and the Walt Disney Studios announced a strategic collaboration on the upcoming “Disney’s Planes” movie, including a cameo appearance by Tripp — inspired in part by American’s Boeing 777-300ER, the newest addition to American’s fleet.

Tripp dons the airline’s new look, complete with the company’s newly developed flight symbol and stripes on his tail for a special cameo appearance in the film.

To kick off the excitement, American and Disney this morning surprised customers traveling through Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) with gate celebrations and giveaways, including special guest appearances by the film’s director Klay Hall and actor Carlos Alazraqui, who provides the voice of passionate racer El Chupacabra (El Chu) in the film.

In addition, American and Disney today premiered a special version of the “Disney’s Planes” trailer for LAX customers, as well as American’s new custom animated commercial directed by Hall, and developed in conjunction with McCann Worldgroup. In the spot, characters from the movie, including Dusty, El Chu and Tripp, highlight American’s fleet modernization efforts with a comedic flare.

“Disney’s Planes” and Tripp soar into theaters nationwide beginning Aug. 9, 2013. Leading up to the film’s release, the companies plan to roll out an integrated marketing effort, including collaborated advertising, promotions and inflight entertainment. American will also feature an inflight version of the movie in October, one month earlier than other airlines, as part of American’s continuing effort to provide customers with the latest and most exclusive content.

For more information about American’s collaboration with “Disney’s Planes,” please visit aa.com/disneyplanes.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

IRON MAN 3 Rockets Onto Blu-ray 9/23

By

Chip

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June 28, 2013

Early Debut of the HD Digital and HD Digital 3D on September 3, 2013 Followed by 3D Super Set, Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD, Digital & On Demand September 24, 2013

Marvel Studios’ Iron Man 3 pits brash-but-brilliant industrialist Tony Stark/Iron Man against an enemy whose reach knows no bounds. When Stark finds his personal world destroyed at his enemy’s hands, he embarks on a harrowing quest to find those responsible. This journey, at every turn, will test his mettle. With his back against the wall, Stark is left to survive by his own devices, relying on his ingenuity and instincts to protect those closest to him. As he fights his way back, Stark discovers the answer to the question that has secretly haunted him: Does the man make the suit or does the suit make the man?

Cast: Robert Downey Jr. (The Avengers, Iron Man, Sherlock Holmes) as Tony Stark/Iron Man, Gwyneth Paltrow (Se7en, Iron Man 2, Iron Man) as Pepper Potts, Don Cheadle (Crash, Iron Man 2, Hotel Rwanda) as Lt. Col. James “Rhodey” Rhodes/ War Machine, Guy Pearce (Memento, L.A. Confidential, The Hurt Locker) as Aldrich Killian, Rebecca Hall (The Prestige, Vicky Cristina Barcelona, The Town) as Maya Hansen, Stephanie Szostak (The Devil Wears Prada, Dinner for Schmucks) as Ellen Brandt, James Badge Dale (The Departed, Shame) as Eric Savin, with Jon Favreau (Iron Man franchise) as Happy Hogan, and Ben Kingsley (Schindler’s List, Hugo, Shutter Island ) as The Mandarin

Director: Shane Black (Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, Lethal Weapon 2)

Screenplay: Drew Pearce (No Heroics, Lip Service) & Shane Black (Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, Lethal Weapon 2)

Producer: Kevin Feige (Marvel’s The Avengers, Marvel’s Iron Man, Marvel’s Thor)

Release Date: HD Digital and HD Digital 3D: September 3, 2013
3D BD, BD, DVD, Digital, On Demand: September 24, 2013

Bonus Features:

Deconstructing The Scene: Attack On Air Force One: Jump into action with the stunt-team
Exclusive Behind-The-Scenes Look – Marvel’s Thor: The Dark World—Experience the spectacular new worlds, unforgettable characters, and pulse-pounding thrills of the upcoming blockbuster movie.
Marvel’s Iron Man 3 Unmasked—Join cast and crew for a crash course in epic movie-making, Marvel style.
Gag Reel
Deleted & Extended Scenes
Audio Commentary—With Drew Pearce & Shane Black
And more…

“Monsters University” Takes Over Club Penguin

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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June 28, 2013

Disney’s Club Penguin, the #1 virtual world for kids, is partnering for the first time with Disney•Pixar to throw the Disney•Pixar “Monsters University” Takeover event. Starting today players can enroll in Monsters University on Club Penguin Island and pledge three different rival fraternities and one sorority to compete in the Scare Games.

While competing in the Scare Games by earning scare points for their fraternity or sorority, members will be able to dress up as their favorite characters from the Disney•Pixar film “Monsters University,” like Mike and Sulley. In their monstrous disguises, members can test out their roar and creep around campus to earn their own scare points. On July 6, the winning fraternity or sorority will be announced, and all players can collect the Scare Games Trophy. Additionally, the Monsters University amphitheater will be decorated in the winning team’s colors.

During the Disney•Pixar “Monsters University” Takeover event on Club Penguin Island:

Everyone can fill up their scare canister with scare points in an all-new mini-game where players practice their best scare tactics
All players can collect fraternity and sorority hats to show their pride when they join a team and can also earn monster accessories for their epic roars. Members will receive the hats and accessories, plus the ability to purchase exclusive “Monsters University” costumes with their virtual coins
New igloo items are available for members to buy in the Furniture Catalog. Some featured items include the Scoreboard, Scare Canister, Ping-Pong Table, Lounge Chair, Archway and more

Players can scare now at ClubPenguin.com.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

NBA Star Kyrie Irving and Disney actress Olivia Holt partner with PlayMG

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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June 28, 2013

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Basketball All-Star, Kyrie Irving (of the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers) and teen actress, Olivia Holt (Disney XD’s “Kickin’ It”) have signed on in a unique ownership role with PlayMG™ Corp., as formerly announced by company today. The duo will play a significant role in the creative direction of the PlayMG Android gaming system, working closely with the company on specifics including device and case design, App recommendations, marketing campaigns and its social media platform.

Irving and Holt’s mutual interest in App-based games prompted them to become immediate friends upon meeting, so when the opportunity to become a partner at PlayMG Corp presented itself, they both jumped at the chance. “I am excited to team up with PlayMG! Spending many hours on the road during the season, I am always looking for new and different App-based games, so collaborating with an App-gaming system makes perfect sense for me,” said Kyrie Irving. “I am looking forward to partnering with Olivia to bring something new and different to young people who want to game and share with them the PlayMG experience.”

In addition to working with the company on the design and marketing of the device, Irving and Holt will also provide PlayMG users with something that no other company has access to: a weekly update on their favorite Apps. Starting this summer, both celebrities will send out a weekly update of their favorite new Apps, while also seeking feedback from fans on their favorite Apps, tips and tricks.

MG App-gaming system is now available from Amazon.com and PlayMG.com at a suggested retail price of $179.99. The MG was specifically designed to fill a void currently experienced by young people who are not old enough to have their own smartphones, or whose parents have found data plans costs prohibitive. Unlike other handheld gaming devices, the MG does not demand expensive $40+ cartridge games and enables young people to enter the world of free, portable app play.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Disney World Housekeeper Accused of Stealing from Guests

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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June 27, 2013

In not so magical news, Emely Santiago a Disney World Housekeeper is facing charges for stealing from guests.

Deputies say the thefts happened in May. She is accused of stealing a credit card and cash from a room at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. She was caught when she tried to use the credit card at a local Wal-mart.

Deputies say she could be involved with other thefts at the resort, in which cash, medication, and jewelry were taken from resort rooms.

Santiago admitted to investigators that she had an addiction to painkillers following a domestic dispute in 2012.

She has bonded out of the Orange County Jail.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine

Disney Themed Spa Night: Under the Sea Edition!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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June 27, 2013

A few weeks ago, the main man in charge , Chip asked if any of the writers would be interested in putting together a Disney themed spa night. I jumped right on that thing! I’m all about girly things and I’m all about Disney things, so this post was right up my ally! Today we’re going under the sea, Little Mermaid style for a little summer inspired spa time! Please keep in mind that I am by NO means a nail guru. Most of the time, I end up with more paint on my skin than on my nails, I smudge when I should be smooth, and inevitably, I ruin the entire manicure with an impatient scratch. Hopefully, you’ll see what I was going for and use it as a jumping off point for your own Disney inspired spa night!

So, what are we waiting for, let’s dive right in!

Look at this stuff, isn’t it neat…

I don’t know about you, but sometimes I just like to pamper myself! I have a HUGE makeup/nail polish problem. You should take a look at my collection, it is shameful. But, like Ariel, I just can’t pass up a good thing! Dinglehoppers, Banded Bulbus Snarfblats, glitter polishes, etc… wouldn’t you thing my collection’s complete? So I went to the ultimate shipwreck of beauty supplies…the drug store! Here’s my haul!

With Ariel and all her undersea crew as inspiration, I selected these polishes…

Fins Together…

I decided to create a look I titled “Fins Together.” This look was inspired by Ariel and her lovable little fishy friend, Flounder! To create this look, I :

1. Prepped my nails by clipping, filing, cleaning, and buffing them as well as cleaning up my cuticles and moisturizing my hands.

2. Next, I applied a clear basecoat. I used an OPI basecoat.

3. I applied 2 Layers of a “tealy” green polish. I selected Maybelline’s Color Show in the color “Green With Envy.”

4. I applied 1 sheer layer of an aqua glitter polish (to represent Ariel’s beautiful tale)! For this, I used Milan’s glitter coat in “Teal” to each finger except for my thumb (my accent finger).

5. For my accent finger, I used a bright yellow, think the color of Flounder’s body. I chose Sally Hasen’s Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear in the color “Mellow Yellow.”

5. I finished off the detail on my accent finger by creating lines similar to Flounder’s stripes. For this, I used a turquoise (Essie’s “Go Overboard”) and a the same teal for the Ariel inspired nails (“Green With Envy”).

6. Finally, I apply a quick drying topcoat. I used Orly’s “Sec N Dry.”

Here are some pictures of my NON professional attempt…

You’ll have your looks, your pretty face and don’t underestimate the importance of body language…

When you’re going all out for a Disney night, you must insure that you have the obligatory facial mask; otherwise, things just wouldn’t be official. I wanted something that would go with my Little Mermaid theme so I selected an ocean inspired mask. I chose Freeman’s Feeling Beautiful Anti-Stress Mask in Dead Sea Minerals. The vibrant aquamarine of the mask conjured up the sea and the Dead Sea minerals made my skin feel fresh, relaxed, and refreshed. This mask was perfect because it was easy to apply and all I had to do was let it dry while I relaxed, and then it washed off easily. This mask provided pampering without rendering me penniless, I highly recommend it! You know they say, “life is the bubbles, under the sea!” I think this totally applies to facial masks!

So, have I inspired you to have a Disney themed spa night? I had a lot of fun shopping and creating a theme for my spa night, but honestly you could take inspiration from what you already have…I call that shopping my stash! So, do you want to see more? I would love to put together another Disney spa theme night! I’ve already got some Pinterest DIY spa ideas in the works and of course, you know I’ve got the polish collection to back it up!

So, here’s where you get to help out! I’m going to list some themes/inspiration below. I want you to vote for your favorite by posting it in the comment section! Here are your choices:

a. Disney/Pixar’s Monsters University

b. Disney World: Tomorrowland

c. Cinderella

As always, thanks for reading and commenting (and VOTING!!!)

See ya real soon!

Ashley

The Doc Files coming soon!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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June 27, 2013

THE DOC IS IN FOR “THE DOC FILES,” A SHORT-FORM SERIES EXTENSION OF DISNEY JUNIOR HIT “DOC MCSTUFFINS,” PREMIERING MONDAY, JULY 22

“The Doc Files,” a short-form series extension of Disney Junior’s hit show launches with a week of new episodes MONDAY, JULY 22 – FRIDAY, JULY 26 on Disney Channel (9:25 a.m., ET/PT) and Disney Junior (7:55 p.m., ET/PT). Episodes will be available on DisneyJunior.com in conjunction with their linear premiere.

Starring preschoolers’ favorite TV doctor and her stuffed animal friends, “The Doc Files” offers young viewers a glimpse into her keen deductive skills as she shares an in-depth look at specific cases and diagnoses after the clinic doors close for the day. Produced using a combination of CG and 2D flash animation, each episode opens with Doc dictating a toy patient’s chart and recalling how she solved the case from allergies to splinters to the importance of healthy eating and exercise.

A hit worldwide, the original animated series “Doc McStuffins,” about a little girl who can talk to and heal stuffed animals and toys out of her playhouse clinic, reached over 100 million unique viewers in 160 countries and 19 different languages in first quarter 2013 and was 2012’s #1 cable TV series in Kids 2-5.* “Doc McStuffins” airs daily on Disney Channel and Disney Junior.

Cars.com and Disney Collaborate for The Lone Ranger

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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June 27, 2013

Cars.com has announced a collaboration with Disney for the upcoming film, The Lone Ranger. The Lone Ranger will be in theaters beginning July 3, 2013. However, you can visit www.Cars.com/nodrama anytime for special trailer footage from the movie.

“Our media campaign for this year is designed to reach a huge audience of car shoppers—first we kicked things off with the Big Game, more recently with a NASCAR partnership, and now with Disney, one of America’s most beloved brands,” said Linda Bartman, Cars.com’s Chief Marketing Officer. “We’ve succeeded at building awareness for our new campaign and overall brand since the launch of the new ads, and this Disney integration will continue to keep that momentum going forward.”

The collaboration with Disney fits well the format of the site’s 15-second commercials to promote drama-free car shopping.

“ALL DRIVE. No drama. is a powerful message that Cars.com plans to incorporate into our advertising campaigns for several years,” said Bartman. “Much like this Disney collaboration, we will continue to find creative ways of getting this message out to car shoppers.”

A limited number of promo codes valued up to $13 towards a ticket to the Lone Ranger will be available when you visit www.Cars.com/nodrama and watch the movie trailer from Disney’s The Lone Ranger now through July 14.

When Siera isn’t helping plan Disney vacations or sharing the latest Disney news, you can find her spreading magic on Facebook and Twitter. Are you thinking about a Disney vacation? Siera is an agent with Destinations in Florida, an authorized Disney vacation planner, and can help you. Plus, can receive up to a $50 in-room credit! Contact her at [email protected] or 734-771-1290!