Stars Come out for the Disneyland Shooting of the 2012 Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade on ABC

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November 5, 2012

It was feeling a lot like Christmas at Disneyland park this weekend, as Disney shot segments for the 2012 Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade. Here’s a look at what you can expect when the special airs December 25 on ABC-TV.

Anchoring the whole Disneyland Resort side of the production was host Mario Lopez – who will give viewers the play-by-play from Town Square on Main Street, U.S.A.

Disney Channel star Ross Lynch sang and danced his way down the street, performing his holiday tune, “Christmas Soul” from “Austin & Ally.”

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Why do you keep going back to Disney?

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 5, 2012

Walt Disney World Railroad train

This is a question that I have been asked many times. I’m sure of my fellow Disney Addicts have also been asked this question. To me this is a loaded question because there are so many answers. Most people who are not Disney Addicts can’t wrap their mind around the need to keep going back to Disney, especially after you have been 3, 4, or 5 times. When I’m asked that question here is the speech I give, however most people tune me out after the first 2 minutes lol.

I went to Disney World for the first time when I was 6 years old but that wasn’t the time when I became a Disney Addict. It was many years later when I moved to Orlando and rediscovered Disney and saw it in a whole new light. There is no place on Earth like Disney, it truly is magical. It doesn’t matter how many times you go you always see something you didn’t see before or you see things in a different way. I wasn’t that crazy about moving to Orlando but now I see it as a blessing because I live 30 minutes away from the most magical place on earth. I get to somewhere a few times a month that a lot of people aspire to visit at least once in their life. I feel very lucky that I get to make amazing memories at Disney with my daughter. My daughter and I don’t get to do to many fun things together so our time there means so much to me.

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Top 5 Reasons to Visit Kona Cafe

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 5, 2012

Among Disney regulars, the Polynesian’s Kona Cafe is a hidden gem of the Disney dining world; and after I tried this small, table service restaurant for myself to confirm the hype, I can now say that I agree!

Kona Cafe is located on the second floor of the Polynesian Resort and offers table service dining with an Asian/Polynesian flare; and while it may lack a strong theme or atmosphere, there are other reasons why you should definitely check it out during your trip!

5. You May Not Need Reservations-Many WDW guests tend to overlook Kona Cafe. So if you are looking for a place to eat, and don’t want to plan ahead and be constrained with reservations, you can usually rely upon Kona Cafe for an open table! Dining and flexibility rarely can be used in the same sentence, so this restaurant is typically an exception.

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Disney Cruise Line Sails to Jamaica for the First Time

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Chip

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November 5, 2012

Disney Cruise Line will visit Jamaica for the first time with new itineraries departing from Galveston, Texas in late 2013. The new seven-night Western Caribbean sailings will call on Falmouth, Jamaica, as well as Grand Cayman and Cozumel, Mexico.

While in Falmouth, one of the Caribbean’s best-preserved Georgian towns, guests can sample the city’s history and culture, take a trip through time on a horse-and-buggy ride, shop for arts and crafts and taste Jamaica’s signature jerk recipes. Bamboo raft rides along the Martha Brae River offer exceptional views of the island’s lush tropical scenery and nearby Ocho Rios is known for its spectacular Dunn’s River Falls.

Also in late 2013, Disney Cruise Line will sail seven-night Bahamas cruises from Galveston, calling on Key West, Nassau, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. A tropical paradise reserved exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests, Castaway Cay is the ultimate escape, with powdery white sand beaches, turquoise blue waters and swaying palm trees. Always a favorite port of call for guests, Castaway Cay is the place for those seeking adventure, relaxation or quality time with the family.

Fall 2013 Galveston Schedule

NEW: Western Caribbean, including Jamaica. The Disney Wonder will sail from the Port of Galveston on seven-night Western Caribbean cruises, including a stop at Falmouth, Jamaica. Plus, three days at sea allow guests to experience the world-class entertainment, impeccable guest service and one-of-a-kind shipboard experience found only on Disney Cruise Line.

Ports: Galveston; Falmouth, Jamaica; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; Cozumel, Mexico

Departure dates: Oct. 5, 19, Nov. 2, 16, 30

NEW: Bahamas, including Castaway Cay. Seven-night Bahamas cruises, include a stop at Disney’s private island paradise, Castaway Cay.

Ports: Galveston; Key West; Castaway Cay; Nassau

Departure dates: Sept. 28, Oct. 12, 26, Nov. 9, 23, Dec. 7, 14

Rates start at $840 per person for these seven-night cruises departing from Galveston, for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

All pricing reflects a category 11C standard inside stateroom. Government taxes and fees and Port Adventures are not included.

Disney Magic Celebrates Galveston as the Newest Regional Home Port for Disney Cruise Line (chipandco.com)
Disney Cruise Line Kids Sail Free Offer (pixievacations.com)

Disney Cruise Line Sails to Jamaica for the First Time

Wreck it Ralph Dominates Box Office Taking in 49 Million

By

Chip

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November 5, 2012

Dominating the box office this weekend with 49.1 Million Dollars Disney’s Wreck it Ralph lands in first place despite still millions without power in the North East. The movie debut not only topped the weekend chart but also smashed the opening-weekend record for a non-Pixar, in-house-made Disney cartoon.

I had the chance to check it out on Saturday and absolutely loved it! Check out our official review from my writer Patrick who got to see it before it opened in theaters. (Lucky)

Many people have asked about the film if it would be ok for children under 4? I would hold off till atleast 5 and older to check out this movie. It does have some potty humor and can be a little loud and scary at times but overall Disney did a wonderful job paying tribute to the classic video games I grew up with.

I imagine as power gets turned on in the North East we will see the John C. Reilly flick hold onto the #1 spot in the box office for another weekend. If you saw WiR this weekend let us know what you thought in the comment box below.

Wreck it Ralph Meet & Greet in Disney’s Hollywood Studios (chipandco.com)
Wreck-It Ralph Storybook Deluxe and Hero’s Duty Interactive Comic (chipandco.com)

Wreck it Ralph Dominates Box Office Taking in 49 Million

Tables in Wonderland – Special Events for November 2012

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Chip

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November 4, 2012

Tables in Wonderland The Wave . . . of American Flavor’s Discovery Dinner At Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Thursday, November 15, 2012
6:30 p.m. Reception; 7:00 p.m. Dinner
Meet at The Wave… of American Flavor’s Main Podium
Dress Code – Casual Evening Attire
$110 per person, includes tax and gratuity

The Wave…of American Flavors has an exciting evening planned for their November Tables in Wonderland Discovery Dinner. This will be the first beer dinner at The Wave and they are partnering with the well known and respected Unibroue brand from Quebec, Canada. From the very beginning, Unibroue has carved out a special niche in the beer world with top quality products and a brand rooted deep in Quebec culture. It made history by becoming the first North American beer maker to use a brewing method inspired by the two-centuries-old tradition developed by Trappist monks in Europe—particularly in Belgium. Over the years, Unibroue has remained faithful to its origins even as it has grown to become an icon of the brewing world. Unibroue products take you on a journey filled with legends and fabulous tales.

Local farmers will be represented by Pero Farms out of Delray Beach, Florida. Pero Farms is a sustainable farm that grows a wide array of vegetables. Since 1908, their family farms have grown out of their passion for food, a healthy environment, and their sincere interest in producing the highest quality produce, both ethically and sustainably.

Reception in The Wave . . . of American Flavors Lounge
Grilled Mini Sweet Bruchetta
Capri style Mini Sweet Peppers, stuffed with Fresh Mozzarella Cheese, topped with Chiffonade of Basil
Mini Sweet Peppers stuffed with Italian Sausage topped with Caramelized Onions
Maudite Ale (Nose reveals: Malt, orange, wild spices with fragrances of coriander and cloves and floral hop notes)

Dinner in The Wave . . . of American Flavors Private Dining Room

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A talented field Headline the 42nd Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Golf Classic Field at Disney World

By

Chip

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November 4, 2012

A talented field that includes past Disney champions Davis Love III and Robert Garrigus, and popular veterans Justin Leonard, Rocco Mediate and Camilo Villegas, highlights this year’s Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Classic, held Nov. 8-11 at Walt Disney World Resort.

Along with the former Ryder Cup captain Love III, the field also features five past major champions, Stewart Cink, Ben Curtis, Trevor Immelman, Leonard and Mike Weir, along with two players in the top 30 of this year’s money list, Curtis and Garrigus.

Twenty nine players in the field have won on the PGA TOUR within the past two years, including Jonas Blixt, Curtis, Tommy Gainey, J.J. Henry, Leonard, Mediate, D.A. Points and Villegas.

A fan favorite, Gainey, nicknamed “Two Gloves,” is looking for back-to-back wins after capturing the McGladrey Classic in Sea Island last month. He knows the courses well at Disney, finishing second at the Classic in 2008.

Jonas Blixt, a rookie of the year candidate who became the eighth Swedish player to win on TOUR with his victory at the Frys.com Open, is looking to break into the top 30 money list. He is currently ranked No. 35.

Another popular name, Rocco Mediate, is making his 22^nd start at Disney. Mediate has three top 10 finishes at Disney, including tied for fourth in 1999. His first start at Disney came in 1987.

Bolstering the field are seven total former champions who have claimed victory on Disney’s Palm and Magnolia courses, with Stephen Ames, Joe Durant, Jeff Maggert, Ryan Palmer and Duffy Waldorf joining Garrigus and Love III.

Waldorf, winner of the 2000 National Car Rental Golf Classic at Disney, and Weir, the 2003 Masters champion, received the final two sponsor exemptions. Durant and former Ryder Cup team member Boo Weekley were previously announced as exemptions in October.

“This year’s field demonstrates how competitive it is to be in the top 125,” said Kevin Weickel, tournament director. “We have a full complement of talented players battling it out around the bubble; players the caliber of Camilo Villegas, Billy Mayfair and Justin Leonard looking to fight their way in.”

The complete field can be found at pgatour.com.

A popular lineup of sports celebrities in the pro-am compliment the PGA TOUR field, including three-time American League batting champ and 2009 MVP Joe Mauer, Tampa Bay Rays players James Shields, David Price, B.J. Upton and Carlos Pena, Chicago White Sox catcher A.J. Pierzynski, and former MLB stars Fred McGriff, Heathcliff Slocumb, and Aaron Rowand. From the gridiron, future NFL Hall of Famer Derrick Brooks (Tampa Bay Bucs), is joined by former NFL vets Ryan Longwell (Packers), John Mobley (Broncos) and Robert Stevenson (Falcons). Former light heavyweight boxing champion Antonio Tarver and the NHL’s Scottie Upshall will also be teeing off at the Palm and Magnolia. Outside of the sports world, comedian Bill Engvall will be a part of the Disney Classic pro-am, held during the first two official rounds of the tournament on Disney’s Palm and Magnolia courses.

The Golf Channel will televise the tournament for the sixth consecutive year. The Golf Channel is scheduled to air live coverage each day.

Tickets for individual rounds ($20), badges for Classic week ($30) are available at www.CMNHospitalsClassic.com or through www.ticketmaster.com. Proceeds benefit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, including the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies in Orlando, and Shands Children’s Hospital in Gainesville.

ABC Family’s Countdown to 25 Days of Christmas 2012 Schedule

By

Chip

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November 4, 2012

ABC Family’s Countdown to 25 Days of Christmas begins Sunday, November 18 through Friday, November 30! We’ve got tons of holiday movies and premieres for you and your little helpers, including the WORLD PREMIERE of Home Alone: The Holiday Heist. Check out all the holiday goodies below!

Sunday, November 18
Snow at 8a/7c
Snow 2: Brain Freeze at 10a/9c
Christmas Cupid at 12/11c
Snowglobe at 2/1c
Santa Baby at 4/3c
Santa Baby 2 Christmas Maybe at 6/5c
Holiday in Handcuffs at 8/7c
12 Dates of Christmas at 10/9c

Monday, November 19
The Secret Life of the American Teenager Marathon at 11a/10c – 8/7c
The Secret Life of the American Teenager at 8/7c ALL NEW HOLIDAY SPECIAL
Jack Frost (1998) at 9/8c

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Keys to the Kingdom Tour – What’s it All About?

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 4, 2012

The Keys to the Kingdom Tour is a fabulous “extra-curricular” for any Magic Kingdom fan that wants to add even more knowledge and fun facts to their repertoire. Even the most knowledgable Disney trivia buff will learn something new on this tour. While I won’t give away the secrets about this tour, I will give you some helpful information and insight about it.

Just like ADRs, you may schedule the Keys to the Kingdom tour 180 days out. All tour participants MUST be at least 16 years old. There are 3 tours given per day. Each tour lasts about 5 hours. Lunch is included at the Columbia Harbor House.

Chip’s Tips: Choose the first tour of the day, as it begins before park opening, allowing you the opportunity to get some great pictures of an “empty” Main Street USA and Cinderella’s Castle.

When arriving for your KTTK tour, check-in at Guest Relations. If your tour begins before park opening, your name will be on a Tour List at the turnstiles – they will allow you early entrance. At Guest Relations, you will be given a name tag as well as an ear piece (a clip-on ear phone) in order to hear your tour guide. You will also pre-order your lunch from the Columbia Harbor House menu.

All of the KTTK tour guides have an incredible knowledge of Walt Disney, his ideas, and the details that went into planning the Magic Kingdom park. The tour begins on Main Street USA, where you’ll learn about forced perspective, and the stories behind a few of the names you see written on the 2nd story building windows. You’ll stand in the hub in front of Cinderella’s castle and learn why the entrance to Tomorrowland is nearly twice as wide as the entrance to Adventureland. Your tour guide will even point out certain trees and tell you why they’re important – one reason being, some are strategically placed to hide certain park icons from being seen while in another land. Your tour guide will show you how the details in the park transition as you walk from one land into the next. From the music changing, to the detailing in the walls, even to the changes in the pavement that you’re walking on!

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Jason Bateman and Daughter Francesca Visit Cars Land

By

Chip

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November 4, 2012

“Arrested Development” star Jason Bateman visited Cars Land recently with his daughter, Francesca. Jason and his family are regular visitors to the Disneyland Resort – you may remember that they stopped by for a visit this March. This time, they were here to celebrate Francesca’s sixth birthday. They wanted “to get the year started right, with a trip to the happiest place on Earth,” he said, adding that she was looking forward to being able to ride more attractions now that she is a bit taller. But, he told me, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror “still scares daddy.”

Holiday Cheer Spreads Throughout Disneyland and Disney California Adventure as The Happiest Place on Earth Gets Merrier (chipandco.com)
Mandy Moore Visits Rapunzel at Disneyland Park (chipandco.com)

Jason Bateman and Daughter Francesca Visit Cars Land

How to do Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique on a Budget

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 4, 2012

How to do Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique on a Budget

The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Walt Disney World is one of the funnest extra’s you can do if you have a little girl! The salon is normally noisy and crowded but each “Fairy Godmother” treat the girls as if they are the only ones there! It is a must do for us each time we visit Walt Disney World. In order to make that happen, I have had to come up with ways to do the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique on a Budget!

The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique offers three different packages to choose from.

Coach Package includes hairstyling and shimmering makeup—starting at $49.95 USD plus tax.
Crown Package includes hairstyling, shimmering makeup and nails—starting at $54.95 USD plus tax
Castle Package includes the Crown Package plus the Imaging Package (one 6″ x 8″ and four 4″ x 6″ photos in a princess-themed photo holder) and complete costume of your choice with accessories—starting at $189.95 USD plus tax.

We ALWAYS choose the crown package! Not only do you get the hair, makeup and nail – there is a photopass photographer going around taking your daughters picture constantly! So if you have already ordered the photopass cd, like we do, there is no need to have extra prints of these when you have already paid for them on the photopass cd.

On top of choosing the Crown Package for our daughter, we always bring a princess dress from home! We normally make a trip to our local Disney Store before our vacation and pick up a dress of her choosing. This runs us normally less than $40.00 depending on which dress she chooses and if we get accessories. That is a lot cheaper than the dresses at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique! And guess what… they treat you no different if you bring your dress from home! Just tell the ladies up front and they will arrange for you to go into the fitting room and put it on just like the girls who bought the more expensive package! It really is great, Disney does a great job of accommodating people with all types of budgets! You certainly don’t have to bring a princess dress at all. One year my daughter just wore a special outfit we picked out for her instead! Etsy is a great place to look for custom outfits and they are reasonably priced! No matter what you choose for your child to wear, your Fairy Godmother will make a fuss over her!

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Local Organization Grants Muncy Girl Her Disney Wish Come True

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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November 4, 2012

Give Kids the World entrance

Hannah Freezer, an 11 year old Muncy student diagnosed with leukemia in April of 2011, now has wonderful memories from an all expense paid Florida Vacation. Her trip was made possible thanks to the Lycoming County Brotherhood Alliance who sponsored the trip as part of their “Making Dreams Come True” campaign. The organization sponsors about 4 or 5 of these trips a year for kids in the county.

Hannah’s Mom Brenda Freezer said she found out about the trip for her daughter when she received a phone call from the organization about a year ago. Brenda had to get the clearance from Hannah’s three doctors for her to go on the trip and they finally got the green light for this October after waiting since last April.

During their trip the family was able to visit Walt Disney World, Sea World, and Universal Studios. They stayed at ‘Give Kids the World Village‘, the 70 acre non-profit, “storybook” resort founded by Henri Landwirth in 1989. The resort was established specifically for children with life-threatening illnesses. The resort features a mini golf course, a carousel, horseback riding and even “ice cream for breakfast”.

Make-A-Wish Sends Another Deserving Kid to Disney World…All the Way from Australia (chipandco.com)
5 Year Old Battling Cancer Has His Wish Come True and Visits Disney World (chipandco.com)

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