Best Western Offers Fans A Chance to Meet Stars of The Disney Channel’s “Shake It Up” With Summer Sweepstakes

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July 8, 2011

Best Western Plus River North Hotel Chicago is offering fans of the hit Disney Channel show “Shake It Up” a chance to get up close and personal with two stars of the show, Gunther and Tinka, with their “Chicago Shake Up Sweepstakes”. One grand prize winner will receive a prize package including overnight accommodations at Best Western Plus River North Hotel and 4 VIP meet and greet passes for the celebrity appearance on July 31, 2011 at the Promenade Mall in Bolingbrook, IL.

Fans can enter the sweepstakes between now and July 22 by visiting the hotel’s Facebook page and click on the Shake It Up Sweepstakes tab. http://www.facebook.com/chicagobestwestern

The Chicago hotel’s sweepstakes in an extension of Best Western’s summer promotion. Between now and August 14, Best Western Rewards members who stay three separate times at any Best Western hotel will earn a free night voucher which can be redeemed at any Best Western hotel in the US, Canada, Bahamas or U.S. Virgin Islands. Vouchers are limited to one per person and must be redeemed before January 31, 2012. Register for the promotion at http://www.bestwestern.com/summer

For the fourth straight year, Best Western is partnering with Disney Media Sales and Marketing on a once-in-a-lifetime summer sweepstakes. One lucky fan of Disney Channel’s “Shake it Up” and three guests will win a trip to Hollywood to attend a taping of the “Make Your Mark, the Ultimate Dance Off – Shake It Up Edition and meet some of the show’s stars. The trip includes round trip transportation and hotel accommodations. To enter register on the http://www.Disney.com/shakeit website.

Shake It Up” This Summer With Best Western: Free Room Nights, Disney Sweepstakes and More (chipandco.com)
Shake It Up: Break It Down Soundtrack + DVD From Walt Disney Records (chipandco.com)

Ask a Disney Question: Character Meet & Greets

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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July 8, 2011

We received a question from Joy about character meet and greets now that Mickey’s Toontown Fair is closed.

Joy writes “Where are the princesses doing meet and greets since they aren’t in ToonTown anymore? Are the fairies still do a meet and greet like ToonTown too if so where are they?”

Well, Joy, I have some good news for you. The Princesses are still doing meet and greets. Their new location is at the Town Square Exposition Hall, in the same location that Mickey and Minnie have their meet and greet. In addition to the Princesses, when I was at Disney a couple of weeks ago, over at Epcot I saw a location for the Fairies! In Future World, not far from the walkway to the World Showcase, was the Pixie Hollow Gardens. It is there that you can meet the Disney Fairies. I would suggest that you take a look at a times guide for Epcot when you get there.

Thanks for writing us, Joy! As always, if anyone has any Disney questions they want to ask, please feel free to reach out to us!

Ask a Disney Question: Is It Possible to Meet Every Character? (chipandco.com)

Ask a Disney Question: Character Meet & Greets

Disney Confidential – Disney Characters Get the Boot During EMH

By

Anonymouse

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July 8, 2011

Hey there guys and gals! Anonymouse here!

I have some interesting Disney Character Gossip to share with you today!

Disney has announced that because of the popularity of the unique attractions in Fantasyland and Tomorrowland the Magic Kingdom will be adjusting their character offerings for Extra Magic Hours (EMH) over the next two weeks.

I hear characters will no longer be appearing in the Fantasyland courtyard for evening Extra Magic Hours at all.

Also starting July 10th Town Square Theater will remain open during regular park hours, but will not be available during morning or evening Extra Magic Hours.

So if your wanting to meet the Disney characters you will have to do it during regular park hours…~~Awesome~~ Lame!

Mickey Mouse and the Disney Princesses have Disney’s FASTPASS available so guests can come back when they are really busy. Or like I have seen Chip write many of times. Do Character Meals so you can meet while you eat that way you can really pound out the rides and attractions while your in the parks.

I really love these new writers on Chip and Co from Character Central. They serve up the best in Disney Character News and Gossip every month and I really look forward to reading their articles.

Check out Disney Character News and Rumors for July 2011. You will get hooked like I am!

Anywho that is all the Disney Gossip I have right now.

Got any good rumors? Please email me at [email protected] or on my Facebook Page.

Morning Extra Magic Hours vs Evening Extra Magic Hours – Which is Better? (chipandco.com)
Rope Drop – What’s all the Fuss? (chipandco.com)

Disney Confidential - Disney Characters Get the Boot During EMH

Top 5 Places for Disney Pins

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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July 8, 2011

If you have been to Disney World in the past ten years or so, you will know that Disney Pins are everywhere! Disney Pins feature characters, parks, attractions, restaurants, resorts, and much more so they make great souvenirs. Also, many of the pins are considered collectibles and trading with Cast Members and other collectors is serious business. Regardless of whether you’re just a fan of Disney pins or a avid collector, Disney pins make for a lot of fun at Disney World. So check out my Top 5 Places for Disney Pins at Walt Disney World!

1. Downtown Disney-At the Marketplace in Downtown Disney, you can find a huge covered pavilion selling nothing but Disney pins! This is the ultimate destination for Disney pins. In addition to the standard Disney pins you can find throughout the parks and resorts, you can find limited edition, special event, and resort pins, along with books and cases, and I have even seen a few Disney Cruise Line pins here. Also, just outside the pavilion, major pin traders often have their pins on display and some are willing to trade.

2. Frontierland Trading Post-In Frontierland at the Magic Kingdom, there’s a store called the Trading Post that sells mostly pins. Almost every wall of this shop displays all kinds of Disney pins making it easy to see the variety that’s for sale. This is also a great place to trade with Cast Members.

3. Sorcerer Mickey Hat-Underneath Hollywood Studios’ massive icon is an area where nothing but pins are for sale. This is a great spot because you get to see a large variety of pins at one location!

4. Special Events-Special Disney World events like Star Wars Weekends, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, the Grand Floridian’s Gingerbread House, Mickey’s not-so-scary Halloween party, the Osbourne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights, and Epcot’s International Flower and Garden Festival, often have their special pins released only during the time of these events. Some events have pins that are relatively easy to find; but I noticed that at the Christmas events, Disney won’t sell them until right before it starts.

5. Epcot-I have found some different pins at Epcot that are hard to find anywhere else at Disney; and at World Showcase, the Cast Members who tucked back near the pavilions can have some great pins since not many people venture back there. You may also get to learn about their culture while you trade!

Are you a big fan of Disney pins and pin trading? What’s your favorite place to find Disney pins?

Related Articles:

Pin Trading for Newbies – Realistic Tips
Disney Pin Trading – Most Popular Pin?
Souvenirs (aglassslippervacation.com)

‘Phineas and Ferb’ Merchandise Coming to Disney Parks (chipandco.com)
Top 10 Attractions with the Shortest Lines (chipandco.com)

A Sweet Adventure at Disney California Adventure Park

By

Chip

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July 8, 2011

There’s nothing ordinary about the treats offered at Disneyland Resort. This summer, join me for a “sweet adventure” as we explore Dulce Aventura now open in the Pacific Wharf area of Disney California Adventure park and the perfect place to add some zest to your sweet quotient.

Caramel apples are a definite must, especially the apple pie-inspired creation, which in my estimation is top notch. The combination of apple, caramel, white chocolate and crushed graham crackers elevates these everyday ingredients to new heights. Other delectable items range from cookies to brownies and even milk chocolate pretzels. But if you’re like me and you don’t mind a little pizazz, then I would definitely recommend the spicy peanut brittle or spicy peanut apple.

So remember, if you want to tempt your taste buds with sweets, be adventurous and stop by Dulce Aventura today.

Source Disney Parks Blog

A Sweet Adventure at Disney California Adventure Park

Disney Planning 101 – Tipping at Walt Disney World

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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July 8, 2011

Disney Planning 101 – Tipping at Walt Disney World

Tipping is a personal choice, based upon both the practice of an individual and the quality of service provided. Since tipping refers to paying a gratuity for services rendered, and no one concentrates more on providing great service than Disney, you might consider this when preparing your budget. I am often asked for advice about tipping at Disney so I thought I would pass along my own practices. Because of the wide variety of services provided, I have addressed each one below. Of course, the choice is yours!

Disney’s Magical Express

Disney has contracted with Mears Transportation Group to provide this free transportation service to and from the airport. The bus drivers are not Walt Disney World employees so tipping is permitted. I would typically give the driver a couple of dollars, unless he has assisted me with my carry-on luggage, in which case I would add another dollar to it.

Bell Service

If we carry our own bags to the resort room then there is obviously no need for bell service. If we have our bags delivered to the room, however, we pay $1 per bag to the bell hop. Some people tip more, some less, but a tip is appropriate if you use bell service.

Mousekeeping

I know people who never tip housekeeping staff no matter where they vacation. Because this position often does not pay very much, I always tip mousekeeping. Some people tip each day of their stay and some wait until the day of checkout and leave a tip for the entire visit. I personally leave the tip daily because I have no way of knowing whether the staff on checkout day will be the same that I have had during each day of my stay.

As a personal rule, I tip $1 per person staying in my room. So, for my family of 5, I tip $5 per day. One of my family members tips $1 per bed each day; so a room with two queen beds would be $2 per day in that instance. As I have said, this is a personal preference.

Disney Transportation Drivers

No matter what type of transportation you use around the Walt Disney World Resort: bus, monorail, tram, ferryboat or friendship boat, the drivers are employed by Disney and, thus, are not allowed to accept tips. Since tipping is not necessary but service is sometimes outstanding, we offer cast member thank yous to our favorite drivers.

Food Servers

No tipping is required at Quick Service restaurants. At these counter-service establishments, you serve yourself. At table service restaurants, however, it is customary to tip. In fact, you will notice that there is a place at the bottom of the ticket where they have listed the appropriate tip at 18% and at 20% of your bill. This is for your convenience only since most of us do not carry calculators or even pen and paper into the parks. It does not mean you have to tip 18 or 20%. If you normally tip 15% and your service was not exemplary, it is perfectly acceptable to leave 15%. If your normal rate is a certain amount, feel free to do the same that you would at any restaurant at home.

I have usually found my service to be exemplary at these restaurants but the tip amount should be service-appropriate.

A couple of things to note: 1) If you have a party of 6 or more, there is an automatic 18% gratuity charged to your bill; and 2) For Tables in Wonderland, there is an automatic gratuity of 18% added to your bill, no matter the party size.

Concierge

Concierge service usually warrants a tip of $2 to $20 depending upon the type of services requested. The most being if reservations for restaurants, tours, etc. were taken care of for you.

I hope you have found these “tips” helpful (I couldn’t resist). Most of all, I hope you will have a fantastic time on your trip. The service I have received at Disney has been exceptional on many occasions. As a matter of fact, I have spent years trying to figure out how I can get on Sal’s bus again! So far I haven’t found him, but I have checked and he is still around!

Two American Icons Reunite to Salute the Forces of Good

By

Chip

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July 8, 2011

On July 22, two icons of freedom will roll onto the silver screen when Marvel Studios releases Captain America: The First Avenger, who defends freedom and justice for all on a Harley-Davidson® WLA motorcycle.

During World War II, Harley-Davidson produced and dispatched approximately 90,000 WLA motorcycles overseas to support the war effort. The motorcycle was affectionately known as the “Liberator” by U.S. Service Men and Women.

To celebrate this reunion, Harley-Davidson Motor Company has created the “H-D® Free the World” promotion, which features two grand prizes. One lucky U.S. military member, as well as a non-military member, will each win the opportunity to work with Marvel and the Motor Company to customize their own one-of-a-kind new Harley-Davidson Sportster® 1200 Custom motorcycle in Harley-Davidson’s hometown of Milwaukee, Wis.

“Captain America makes the perfect marketing partner for Harley-Davidson as he truly embodies the iconic, heroic and American aspects of our brand,” said Dino Bernacchi, Harley-Davidson’s director of Marketing Communications. “Both Captain America and our motorcycles are great symbols of freedom.”

“We’re excited to partner with Marvel given their success in pulling in large, young and diverse audiences,” added Bernacchi. “Big and heroic activations like this build interest and excitement in our amazing sport among potential new customers, so we hope to see some new Captain America fans on the road soon.”

Each of the grand prize winners of the “H-D Free the World” promotion will travel to Milwaukee to create the Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom of their dreams at one of the Motor Company’s production facilities. The promotion also features unique “first prizes” for one U.S. military member, as well as non-military member, to attend a Harley-Davidson Academy of Motorcycling Riders Edge® class to learn how to ride alongside a friend.

Additionally, Captain America fans can visit their local Harley-Davidson dealers to secure an exclusive poster featuring Captain America on his 1942 Harley-Davidson “Liberator,” while supplies last. Harley-Davidson’s promotional Web site, www.h-d.com/captainamerica, also features never-before-seen footage produced in collaboration with Marvel.

Legal residents of the United States who are at least 18 years of age can enter the “H-D Free the World” promotion at www.h-d.com/captainamerica through December 1, 2011.

About the Captain America Harley-Davidson “Liberator”

Harley-Davidson collaborated with Marvel Studios to create five motorcycles for the Captain America: The First Avenger film, which traces Captain America’s origins as a World War II era Super Hero who rode a military motorcycle as a means of transportation.

The Motor Company coordinated the modification of the current day Harley-Davidson® Cross Bones® model to resemble an original 1942 WLA Army motorcycle. The Motor Company also worked with Marvel Studios to recreate additional parts, such as an ammunition box and leather gun scabbard, to ensure the motorcycles looked as authentic as possible.

Three bikes were used in the film for riding and stunts, and two were reserved for a scene in which Captain America lifts a motorcycle over his head at a USO appearance.

Two of the motorcycles will become part of the Harley-Davidson Museum’s permanent collection and one will be featured in a special temporary display at museum showcasing a sampling of items from the movie, including a Captain America leather “rescue jacket,” his signature ‘A’ helmet, and shield he carried in the film.

For more information about Harley-Davidson’s partnership with Marvel Studios around Captain America: The First Avenger, including the “H-D Free the World” promotion, visit www.h-d.com/captainamerica.

Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins Presents: Captain America: The First Avenger Summer Treats (chipandco.com)

Two American Icons Reunite to Salute the Forces of Good

Steam Park Vinylmation arrives at D-Street

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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July 8, 2011

Steam Park Vinylmation arrives at D-Street — Steam Park Vinylmation on display at D-Street

On July 7, Disney is releasing a new Vinylmation set echoing the SteamPunk ne0-Victorian themes of its earlier Mechanical Kingdom pin sets. The new limited edition series is composed of six vinylmation figures and will retail for $99 at D-Street stores in both Disneyland and Walt Disney World.

The set, displaying a range of gears, handlebar moustaches, and tinted glasses, will be sold in a special themed collector case labeled “Steam Park.” The set taps into the rising interest in Steampunk, a fantastical re-creation of a steam-powered Victorian world that seeks to keep the best aspects of Victoriana. The earlier Mechanical Kingdom pin sets re-cast classic Disney characters as Victorian adventurers, and this new vinylmation offering continues similar themes.

What do you think? Do you like the “steampunk” elements being introduced into Disney merchandise?

SteamParkset

SteamPark2

SteamPark3

SteamPark4

Disneyland and Disney World Vinylmation Event Calendar for Summer 2011 (chipandco.com)
The Florida Project – 9/11/11 Vinylmation Showcase (chipandco.com)

Disney Marathon Training – Beating the Heat

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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July 8, 2011

Disney Marathon Training - Beating the Heat

If you’re registered for any of the upcoming Disney races – Disneyland’s Half Marathon in September, the WDW Wine and Dine Half Marathon in October, or WDW Marathon Weekend in January, you may be finding motivation difficult in the summer heat.

For those of you, like me, that don’t enjoy running on a treadmill, there are other options and tips for beating the heat. As I recently read in a Runners World Magazine, the heat can be incredibly dangerous. Make sure to stay extra hydrated, try to do longer runs in the early or late hours when the temperatures are at their lowest, and go slower than you may think necessary. High temperatures put runners more at risk for extreme dehydration or even heat stroke.

Other options include finding other activities to remain active and continue cardio training while avoiding the outdoor heat. Swimming laps or water running (with a floating belt and all) offer challenging cardio while still being refreshed. Biking, spinning classes, and other intense cardio will help you maintain or build endurance while not necessarily being as intensely uncomfortable in the hot months.

Good luck to everyone training, or considering training. There is still plenty of availability for Marathon Weekend in January, and the Disneyland half is sold out, but the Wine and Dine half marathon is 97% full!! If you’re hoping to run that race, make sure to sign up ASAP!

2012 Disney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend Registration Now Open (chipandco.com)
Inaugural Tinker Bell Half Marathon Medal Unveiled (chipandco.com)

Disney Marathon Training - Beating the Heat

Photos: The Little Mermaid Dark Ride Preview

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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July 7, 2011

Photos: The Little Mermaid Dark Ride Preview

The new Little Mermaid dark ride opened up at California Adventure on June 3, with soft opens beforehand as well as annual passholder previews. I was able to check out the soft opening preview and snapped a few pictures for you.

Check them out below.

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‘The Rocketeer’ Celebrates 20 Years (chipandco.com)
Photo and Fun Facts from The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure (chipandco.com)

Photos: The Little Mermaid Dark Ride Preview

Dine with a Disney Animal Specialists at Sanaa in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

By

Chip

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July 7, 2011

Fans of Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge already know that the well-versed animal specialists are always ready to answers questions and share their knowledge about the beautiful creatures roaming the savannas.

But now there’s an even more personal way to learn about the animals – and enjoy a delicious African-inspired lunch at Sanaa at Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. With a view out the restaurant window onto the savanna, one of the resort’s animal specialists joins a small group (no more than 12) around the table for lunch and a fun insider’s view, with time for lots of questions. A giraffe gallops by; a zebra grazes unaware while guests enjoy a four-course lunch from Sanaa’s tandoor ovens. From warm naan bread and savory dips to slow-cooked meats and unusual sweets such as a tropical fruit kulfi and chai cream, you get a culinary lesson too as the restaurant servers talk about each delicious course.

The Animal Specialist experience is every Wednesday from 11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m. Cost is $49, $29 ages 3 to 9 (special kid’s menu). The price includes the gratuity plus a $5 contribution to Disney’s Worldwide Conservation Fund. To make a reservation, call 407-938-6922, option 3 or stop by Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge concierge. Beginning Aug. 1, reservations will be available online at http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/reservations/dining/ or call 407-WDW-DINE (939-3463) up to 180 days prior to visiting.

Dine with an Animal Specialist (chipandco.com)
Top 10 Must-Do Disney Foods. (everythingwdisneyworld.com)

Dine with a Disney Animal Specialists at Sanaa in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

‘Phineas and Ferb’ Merchandise Coming to Disney Parks

By

Chip

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July 7, 2011

I have good news for those who have been looking for Phineas and Ferb merchandise; there are several new “Phineas and Ferb” items arriving at Disney Parks in the coming months.

The good news comes from Rachel Phelps, product developer and softlines champion for “Phineas and Ferb.”

“’Phineas and Ferb’ has become such a hit, and we know fans of the show are looking for merchandise when visiting Disney Parks,” explained Rachel. “As the softlines champion, I work with the various product developers in the softlines division to gather information about new items. I’m currently working on new T-shirts for kids that will be arriving in the next two months. Yet they are just some of many new items coming from a variety of categories.”

One thing I noticed is the number of Agent P items currently in development. He is featured on many things including shirts for ladies and men (coming in early August); an individual Disney pin and a foam novelty hat (both arriving in November); and even a water bottle. Back in April, I shared artwork for a new Disney Racer featuring this “semi-aquatic, egg-laying mammal of action.” Cody Hampton, associate product developer for Toys, shared with me the first sample of the toy for this article (pictured above). The Disney Racer will arrive in late fall this year. After seeing all of the Agent P merchandise, I couldn’t resist channeling my inner secret agent.

As a secret agent, there is one mission I know I will be completing on Aug. 5. That is the day the new original movie – “Phineas and Ferb Across the 2nd Dimension” will debut on Disney Channel. I invite you to visit the World of Disney locations in California and Florida now through Aug. 5 as we are distributing an 11”x17” poster like the one pictured above (of course, all quantities available while supplies last).

Source Disney Parks Blog

‘Phineas and Ferb’ and Other Disney Channel Shows to Hold Panels at 2011 Comic-Con (chipandco.com)
National Press Club’s First-Ever Animation Panel Featuring Hit Disney Channel Series “Phineas and Ferb” and “Fish Hooks” (chipandco.com)

‘Phineas and Ferb’ Merchandise Coming to Disney Parks

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