Were looking for a few good writers…

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January 30, 2011

Chip and Company is exploding at the seams.

Not to put too fine a point on it, but the huge growth in visits could not have been accomplished without great fans like you (yeah, you…the one in the Mickey Mouse t-shirt). I work with some of the best writers on the planet and Chip and Company offers a plethora of articles, including: Park Events, Trip Planning, Reviews and much more..

Which brings me to our most recent situation. We need a few more writers to join us on staff at Chip and Company.

Here is what we are looking for:

Disney Parks Writer – Have a permanent set of Mouse Ears? We are looking for someone to cover Park Events, openings, closings, refurbishments, etc. With so much happening at the Disney Parks around the globe, there is always something new and exciting that needs to be reported. Most news breaks on the various Disney-related Forums first and this writer would need to be an up-to-date Disney Forum reader. If you live near a park, great, but it is not necessary. Although an On-the-Scenes reporter would be a welcome addition and gain our undying love.
Disney Views Writer – One of the more popular features (re: lots of hits) on C&C is our Planning Articles. Our writers find it is a lot of fun researching how to make your visit more enjoyable. Being a Disney Planner is key in writing these articles, so you will need to be organized and have the creativity to engage the audience.
Muppets Writer – The Muppets are back and there seems to always be something Muppet related on the net. I am looking for someone to submit an article a week about something Muppet Related.
Marvel Writer – In attempts to branch our Disney purchased Marvel more than a year ago. While none of the characters are walking around the parks Marvel is still a presence in Movie, Merchandise, Television, etc. I am looking for someone to cover all the Marvel news.
All positions will need to be able to write atleast 3-4 articles a month. Most people do one article a week. If you can write more that is great but not required.

Currently, these positions are on a volunteer basis. Our writers write Disney News & Views because we share a love for all things Disney. We do offer many benefits that we can discuss once an agreement has been reached. I would prefer all writers have their own blogs or websites so you can drive traffic to your site at the bottom of all articles and on our links and partner pages.

Chip and Company offers access to an instant audience–not only on the website, but on twitter, facebook and even on our mobile site!

Our writers are like family, albeit a very diverse and scattered family. We share trip experiences, laugh and have a great time behind the scenes.

So if you are interested please drop us a line at [email protected] and let us know what you are interested in and what kind of writing/media experience you possess.

I hope to hear from you!

>>Chip

George’s Geeky Gift Guide: Walt Disney’s Imagineering Legends and the Genesis of the Disney Theme Park (imaginerding.com)
Be a guest blogger for Chip and Company (chipandco.com)
Disney News Round Up (couponingtodisney.com)

Blue Sky Cellar Update Showcases Upcoming Little Mermaid Attraction

By

Chip

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January 30, 2011

The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure becomes the newest star in the 2011 update of Walt Disney Imagineering Blue Sky Cellar, the place where Disney California Adventure park guests find an exclusive preview of what is new and what is coming next for the expansion of the Disneyland Resort. Beginning Friday, January 28, a refreshed Blue Sky Cellar show will feature new models and a new video, along with dozens of concept drawings for the Little Mermaid attraction and other upcoming enhancements to Disney California Adventure park.
In the Blue Sky Cellar screening room, a new, birds-eye view painting of Disney California Adventure comes to life with projected animation that will delight guests with fun surprises. An updated film presentation features Disney Imagineers describing their work, along with footage of model-making, sculpting, “blue sky” meetings and all the aspects of bringing a Disney concept to life.
Other highlights include:

Sketches and layout diagrams for the new attraction, along with three-dimensional models and other art work, all crafted by Disney Imagineers, the creative minds behind the design and construction of Disney theme parks and attractions.
A preview of Goofy’s Sky School attraction and the new Paradise Pier dining locations that will open later this year.
All-new attraction posters for California Screamin’, Mickey’s Fun Wheel and Silly Symphony Swings – designed in the style of traditional Disney theme park attraction posters which have appeared at the entrance to Disneyland for more than 50 years.
Concept art for the new park entrance, the Buena Vista Street entry plaza, and the Red Car Trolleys which will transport guests from the park entrance through Hollywood Land to the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.

The “coming soon” area of Blue Sky Cellar continues to look even further ahead to 2012 and Cars Land, the 12-acre expansion of the Park that will bring to life the town of Radiator Springs from the Disney?Pixar animated film Cars, complete with three new attractions for families and kids of all ages.
Based on the belief that idea gathering is best when “the sky’s the limit,” the Blue Sky Cellar is designed to resemble an Imagineering “charette,” an extended creative idea development meeting. Guests receive an inside-look at how Imagineers take “blue sky” ideas and refine them into the classic storytelling that characterizes Disney theme park attractions and adventures.
In this whimsical immersive setting, Imagineers have taken over a former wine cellar and set up shop. Wine barrels have turned into work stations and the former wine tasting room has become a screening room where videos showcase the behind-the-scenes magic that goes into the creation of new and upcoming attractions for Disney California Adventure.

New Blue Sky Cellar Show Previews Little Mermaid and Unveils an ‘Animated’ Map (chipandco.com)
New Attraction Posters Paint a Fresh Vision of Paradise Pier (chipandco.com)

Blue Sky Cellar Update Showcases Upcoming Little Mermaid Attraction

Damage estimated at $20,000 from fire at Disney hotel

By

Chip

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January 30, 2011

This article comes to us from the Honolulu Star Advertiser.

Honolulu firefighters are still trying to determine the cause of a two-alarm fire that caused $20,000 worth of damage to the roof top of one of the towers at the uncompleted Disney hotel at Ko Olina yesterday evening.

Capt. Gary Lum, Honolulu Fire Department spokesman, said the fire was reported at 6:13 last night and caused $10,000 worth of damage to the structure and another $10,000 to the contents of the building.

Hotel spokesman Todd Apo said construction workers were fighting the small fire with fire extinguishers on the 12th floor roof of the eastern tower.

The fire was reported extinguished at 6:39 p.m.

Click here to read the full article.

Photo credit Joel at Coconut Wireless

Disney Confidential: Iago is Dead. (chipandco.com)
Events, Attractions, and More Coming to Disney in 2011 (chipandco.com)

Damage estimated at $20,000 from fire at Disney hotel

The VERY BEST Thing About Our Upcoming Visit

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 29, 2011

The VERY BEST Thing About Our Upcoming Visit

Yes we love, love, love each and every regular visit to Walt Disney World and have since our first time in 1990 (started way too late). We love it so much that the Magic just gets better and better, perhaps because we are at that time of life where we are approaching our second childhoods. We consider the chance to act like kids again a very good thing

Our trip in October is going to have all of the regular magic with a HUGE plus. We will be joined by an old high school friend (remember, I graduated 47 years ago) and his wife who just happens to be an old grammar school friend. We happened to hook up on our last visit, but only for one day, and had such a wonderful time that we planned this time to coincide our visits. That would be enough by itself to make the trip Fantasmic but there is more!!!

I recently found out that a cousin I grew up with and his wife both work at Walt Disney World so we are in the process of planning to get together and spend some time with them also!!! How could it get any better than that? Well, it does!!! Another old high school friend (who we accidentally ran into last visit) and her husband contacted me and said to be sure to get in touch with them when we finalize plans so they can drive down for the day and visit!!! Amazing!! There is also a chance that my wife’s nephew and his new wife may be able to get to the World for a day to visit with us!!!

I agree, it’s going to be a busy time but worth any amount of effort to make it happen. Wish us luck but I have a very good feeling about this. As always, enjoy your visit to Walt Disney World. We always do but this one is going to be extra special!!!

Ken

The VERY BEST Thing About Our Upcoming Visit

Training for your Disney Marathon – Options Options Options

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 29, 2011

When you’re starting out running, all you really need is a good pair of shoes and a place to run. And, while I highly recommended going to a local running store and having shoes fitted by the pros, that’s the only thing that I think necessary to run.

But, once you start gaining distance, gear becomes more important. It’s easy to be overwhelmed when figuring out what to get – there are countless options for shoes, hydration belts, race belts, nutrition, watches, etc…

So, where should you start? I started by asking opinions of fellow runners, then heading to my local running store to see my options. I started off with a 2 bottle hydration belt, only to realize that for the majority of my longer runs, I could easily drink more than 2 bottles worth. I’ve also seen many runners with slightly bottles with hand straps to carry, instead of carrying the bottles around your middle.

What about watches? Are they necessary? There are 2 types that I’m familiar with – heart rate monitors and GPS enabled watches. Obviously, the GPS watches cost a bit more, but when looking into them, you can also have a heart rate monitor as well, so it can be an all-encompassing option. Or, you can do as my husband does and find a cell phone app that can track your distance/route and save the money. I personally splurged on a GPS watch after my cell phone crashed one too many times.

How about nutrition? As I mentioned, it is important to replenish calories lost after about an hour of running. Sports drinks (or similar) come in to play as well as food. Yes, food. During full marathons, I’ve heard of people eating sandwiches or full nutrition bars. I tried several different options on my training runs, including bites of nutrition bars, gels, blocks, etc… and settled with a chocolate GU that tasted as close to frosting as you can imagine (and was one of the only things I could stomach).

Other gear: I found my own personal preferences on clothes, ear buds, socks (yes, even socks are important in endurance running), shoes, and headbands. Most of them came from discount stores, where it is easy to find work out clothing for much less than they can cost in brand name/department stores.

There is a plethora of options, just know that you won’t need everything all at once, but can start a collection as you build distance.

Happy running!

Jenn resides with her husband, 1 year old son, and 2 bratty dogs in a suburb of Washington, D.C. She also hosts her own blog, the Disney Babies Blog (http://disneybabiesblog.blogspot.com) , where she shares her experiences, tips, and ramblings about traveling the parks with a baby. In her non-Disney life, Jenn is often found running, practicing yoga, or playing the clarinet in the military.

Photo courtesy of Ruth Lim

Training for your Disney Marathon – Starting from Scratch (chipandco.com)

Training for your Disney Marathon – Options Options Options

Tips For The ‘Group’ Trip -Keep It Civil And Simple

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Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 29, 2011

Tips For The ‘Group’ Trip -Keep It Civil And Simple

Group trips to Walt Disney World can run the gamut from Agony to Ecstasy. Generally, immediate family (parents and kids) are the easiest to deal with and work out very well because they are simple – parents are in charge. When you travel with other types of groups such as friends and family, multi generational families, or just a group of friends things can become way more complex. Here are some reasons why:

Every group has a dominant personality (DP) who may or may not be familiar with Walt Disney World but wants to have his/her input turn into outcome (fancy way of saying they want their own way for the entire group).
Most groups also have a Disney Dominant Personality (DDP) who knows a lot about the ins and outs of Walt Disney World but may or may not be the group’s DP. Since you are reading this you are likely the group’s DDP and are likely to be deeply involved with planning the trip.
People are individuals and like to do different things while on vacation whether or not they are familiar with the destination.
Different members of the group may have different stamina or mobility abilities.

I believe that the DDP bears a significant portion of responsibility to keep it both civil and simple. You probably know who the DP of the group is and it is important that you have a lot of communication with this person to gain his/her support for your planning. If you are both the DP and the DDP that would seem to simplify things but it actually makes things a bit more complex because you have to relinquish the DP portion of your personality to the DDP – you need to allow for everybody’s interests. Here are some quick ways to make the trip more successful regardless of the DP and DDP relationships:

Ask everyone in the group for input, ask them what they want to do. You will probably be surprised at just how much all these individuals have in common. That will simplify planning.
Maintain open and regular communication about the trip with everyone in the group but especially the DP. Make sure the DP is aware of everyone’s interests. His/hers just might be the same.
If members of the group want to do their own exploring, let them. I learned from experience that this works best and keeps people happier. Plan to meet up once a day for a nice meal and to discuss the adventures they had that day.
Allow everyone to tour according to their stamina/mobility abilities – let them decide when they want to take a break, honor that request and plan to meet up later. Everyone in the group needs to know that it’s o.k. to take a break.

These are just a few things you can do to keep the trip civil and simple and be just as good friends at the end of the trip as you were at the beginning. As always, enjoy your visit to Walt Disney World!!

Ken

Photo By Disney

Disney World Quick Tips – Enhance Your Disney Memories, Theme Your Photos (chipandco.com)
Details, Details: What You May be Missing at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (chipandco.com)

Tips For The ‘Group’ Trip -Keep It Civil And Simple

Disneyworld Planning 101 – Extra Magic Hours Strageties

By

Chip

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January 29, 2011

This topic is a hot button for me. I have gotten into many debates with people over visiting the parks during Extra Magic Hours. Don’t get me wrong I like the idea of Extra Magic Morning or Evening Hours, but does the HUGE influx of people at that park on that day really account for an hour or so of additional time at the parks?

I know a lot of you when planning what park you will visit on what day specifically pick the parks with Extra Magic Hours. You get to get into the park early, ride some rides before it gets busy, and that is cool don’t get my wrong.

In the beginning I used to as well, but over time I started to notice that by 10 or 11 o’clock that park was SLAMMED! It was insane, so insane that my wife and I would just leave that park and not come back that day. While we didn’t have a little one at the time it was no big deal to hop on Disney Transportation and visit another park.

With the invention of Touring Plans “Lines” and “Crowd Calendar” I started to notice a trend. Touring Plans would pick the parks with EMH’s as the parks to avoid that day..Hmm I wonder why.

You have to imagine every other guest out there at the Walt Disney World Resorts is thinking the same thing as you, lets visit the parks a little early or stay a little late, but your missing the key point EVERY OTHER GUEST IS THINKING THE SAME THING!

So over the course our visiting the parks we have modified our strategies some, depending on your family situation, and which park we are talking about is what will influence how tackle the dreaded Extra Magic Hours. Let’s take a look.

No Kids Options

So you have no kids, maybe your single, hanging out with friends, newly weds, etc the point is you are very mobile. My suggestion would be to get into the park when it first opens for EMH and by 10-11am you get the heck outta dodge. Find the park that TP’s Crowd Calendar suggests you visit that day and stay there till around dinner time. After dinner head to the park that has the Extra Magic Evening Hours and stay till they kick you out the door.

I remember one time I was at the park till 3am it was AWESOME. All the rides were walk on. No kids were in sights and we may or may not had a few drinks before going..wink wink.

With Kids

If you have little ones that still take a nap this is similar to the No Kids Option but with a twist. This is what we usually end up doing since we have a little one at home with one more on the way.

What we like to do is plan on being at the park for rope drop, with kids you try but aren’t always successful. We usually will skip a big breakfast here and opt for something portable. You will see why in a second.

We go visit all the rides we like the best forgoing any shows, or attractions. Around 11am the little one is starting to get hungry and so should you. Now we use our quick service meal to grab brunch at the park. At this time the park should be getting pretty busy. After we eat we head back to our room for naps.

Once we are up and going we purposely avoid the park with Evening Extra Magic Hours. It is usually much nicer in the parks that doesn’t have EEMH’s. Also I have noticed people are a little more rowdy at the parks after dark, don’t ask me why…

So that is our strategy for now, I am sure as my girls get older we will visit the EMH parks at night but for now after Wishes or Illuminations it is back to the room for bed.

Does Parks matter?

If you were paying attention earlier you would have remembered I mentioned something about parks and extra magic hours. Do which park your visiting that day really matter in staying for EEMH’s? In my research they do.

For example a park like Magic Kingdom EEMH’s are great there are plenty of rides and a fair amount of room. Not to mention Tomorrowland looks the best at night.

Epcot on the other hand is to busy for my tastes at night. The lines for Soarin & Test Track are insane as most people are waiting to go on those rides. I will say walking around the World Showcase at night is very magical and Spaceship Earth is brilliant but not something we have to do every visit.

Disney Hollywood Studios is similar to Epcot and is able to handle the attendance after dark. There is enough stuff to do to curb your late night hunger for rides.

Animal Kingdom doesn’t stay open late like the other parks and that is cool the animals need to unwind from a busy day.

Ok so there you have it this has been my philosophy on Extra Magic Hours. You may or may not agree and that is cool we all have our own opinions and experiences with it. That is the great thing about Walt Disney World there is no right or wrong way to have fun!

What are some of your Extra Magic Hour Strategies? Let me know in the comment section below.

Disneyworld Planning 101 – Do Magic Kingdom Last.. (chipandco.com)
Disneyworld Planning 101 – Are you a Disney Planner? (chipandco.com)
Disneyworld Planning 101 – How soon is to soon when planning your Vacation? (chipandco.com)

Disneyworld Planning 101 – Extra Magic Hours Strageties

Disney’s Animal Kingdom: The one ride I MUST ride

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 29, 2011

Disney’s Animal Kingdom: The one ride I MUST ride — Expedition Everest: My MUST Ride

In previous posts, I took a look at the one ride that I must ride at the Magic Kingdom and at Epcot. Today, we are going to take a look at Animal Kingdom, that Imagineer Haven where you can find a different aspect of the park to enjoy and appreciate at every turn!

My initial thoughts when it comes to Animal Kingdom and my must ride was that it wasn’t a ride at all that I must see – it was a show. However, as good as Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo – The Musical are, there really isn’t any comparison to the feel a great ride can make you feel. So I discounted them from the running.

Then I started thinking about the different rides that we enjoy at Animal Kingdom. There are some good ones there, but they are kind of spaced out so there is a lot of walking to get to them all. There’s Primeval Whirl, Sophie’s favorite ride at Animal Kingdom because it took so long before she was tall enough to ride it. Then there is Kali River Rapids, a ride that Sophie, my niece Stephanie, and I rode twice in a row, got soaked, then, as if we weren’t wet enough, the sky opened up with rain right after we got off. And don’t forget Kilimanjaro Safaris, that ride that takes you through to see some of the Park’s greatest treasures – the animals that populate the park.

But for me, after much consideration, I decided that my favorite ride is Expedition Everest. It’s got it all — a great queue, incredible theming, a fun storyline. But for me, Expedition Everest is made when you ride backwards down the track. That is when my stomach rises, the thrills increase, and I’m ready to ride it again. Check out these photos from TimeStream Software for just a hint of the incredible elements of the ride!

On my last trip around the Disney World parks, I’m going to talk about that one ride that I must ride at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Talk to you next time!

Mike is a writer for Chip & Company, and a Disney fan. When he isn’t writing for C&C, he can be found writing his own posts at My Dreams of Disney or planning his next trip to Disney! You can follow him on his Twitter account @Mickey_MDOD, and his Facebook Fan Page.

Disney Pin Trading: Rules and Etiquette for Enjoying the Experience

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 29, 2011

Disney Pin Trading: Rules and Etiquette for Enjoying the Experience

I started trading pins at Walt Disney World, and then at Disneyland, a few years ago as an excuse to talk to Disney Cast Members and other guests. Because I’m not much of a shopper while visiting Disney theme parks, I also liked the idea of collecting small (thus portable) and inexpensive souvenirs during my trips that would become part of a larger collection at home – one that would be ever evolving.

Trading Disney pins is easy, with just a few rules to follow. And building a collection can be as simple or extensive as each individual pin trader decides to make it. But one of the real joys in Disney pin trading is the interaction.

Disney Pin Trading – The Basics
To get started with pin trading, purchase a starter set and a lanyard (either a neck or hip style worn at the waist). Pins and lanyards are available at various Disney locations in the parks, resorts, at Downtown Disney. Pins and starter sets are even on eBay.

Trading with Cast Members. Just approach a Cast Member who wears a lanyard and offer to trade. Choose one of the available pins, and offer one of your pins for one the one you’ve selected. It’s a one-for-one trade.

It’s as simple as that. Cast Members cannot refuse a trade, so long as it fits within Disney Pin Trading rules (below).

Trading with other Guests. Approach a guest wearing a lanyard and ask them if they are open to trading. If that person agrees, any pin that faces outward on the lanyard – as opposed to other places (e.g. hat, shirt) is generally available for a trade. With Guest-to-Guest trades, there’s a bit more room for negotiation – “You’d like this one? I’m interested in that one.” The flexibility adds to the fun and the conversation.

Disney Pin Trading – The Rules

Disney Pin Trading at Magic Kingdom — Pin Trading with a Disney Cast Member. Photo: D.K. Peterson

Disney Pin Trading rules and guidelines for have evolved since trading at the Disney theme parks began in 1999 as part of the Millennial Celebration.

Eligible Disney trading pins should be metal, with a ©Disney mark on the back and in good condition.

Pins that may be traded include the following:
• Disney theme park pin from a place or location, event, character or icon;
• Pins from other divisions of the Walt Disney Company (i.e. ESPN, ABC, DVC); and
• Participating partner pins, so long as they have a Disney affiliation showing.

Some Disney pins can’t be traded:
• Non-metal pins (e.g. plastic or rubber pins,);
• Brooch-style or clasp pins;
• Personalized pins (whether ones with your name or Cast Member Name Tags); and
• Special Disney Cast Member pin (e.g. Service Awards, Spirit of Disneyland Awards, Disney Cast Member costume pins, or Partners in Excellence pins)

For fun, not profit. Disney pins may not be traded for monies, gifts or receipts, nor may these things be included as part of the trade. This applies to both Cast Member and Guest-to-Guest trades.

Make the Trade an Original. Don’t offer Disney Cast Members a duplicate of a pin currently on their lanyards.

One is fun, and twice is nice. Guests may trade up to two (2) pins per Cast Member per day. Trades between Guests don’t have the same restriction.

Disney Pin Trading – Etiquette
Most Disney Pin Trading falls under the “Golden Rule” and common sense – do what you can to make it a safe, fun, enjoyable experience for everyone.

Just for kids. Some Cast Members have lanyards just for trade with children (ages 3 – 12). At Walt Disney World, it’s Cast Members wearing green lanyards. At Disneyland, it’s those with teal lanyards.

Honor the spirit of the trade. Trading pins should be a fun, enjoyable experience for both parties.
• Be sensitive to new Disney Pin traders of all ages, particularly young children who may not understand all the rules.
• Some pins are designed as sets. Don’t break up a good relationship. If a single pin doesn’t create a complete image, trade the pins as a set.
• If a lanyard pin is turned backwards, with the pin back facing out, that pin is unavailable to trade.

Respect personal space. Look, but don’t touch, another person’s lanyard or pins. Oohing and ahhing is acceptable. If you need a closer look at a pin, as the person to show it to you – don’t get grabby.

Safety First. When trading pins, carefully remove them from a lanyard and replace the pin backs to avoid the Sleeping Beauty pinprick. Trade pins one at a time.

Disney Pin Trading – Some Unofficial Suggestions

Disney Trading Pins — A set of Disney trading pins. Photo: D.K. Peterson

Collect what you love. For some people, this will mean collecting limited edition pins and only those pins. For others, collecting favorite characters – I’ve seen lanyard dedicated to Tinker Bell or Disney Villains – or color are the focus. For yet other, focusing on Disney attraction pins or Disney movies. Others will focus on finding a set. There’s no “perfect” collection, except the one that makes you happy.

Each pin tells a story. For many people, it’s not the pins that are the primary attraction of the trade. It’s the opportunity to chat with other people. Help make each trade a memorable experience. Offer a story about your trip, about the pins, about you.

Rules are sometimes mean to be broken. On our last trip to Walt Disney World, a young child approached my husband. Fascinated by the pins on his lanyard, but without one of her own, she offered to trade her birthday button for one of his pins. He couldn’t take her button, of course, not on her special day. But he gave her a Princess Minnie pin that complemented her birthday sash and outfit. He didn’t get a pin in return, but a big smile. And we got a story that was in the very spirit of Disney Pin Trading.

For more information in Disney Pin Trading at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Resorts and Disney Cruise Line, see the official Disney F.A.Q.

Kungaloosh! Debra Peterson enjoys seeking out for the interactive, immersive and innovative at Disney theme parks. When not writing for Chip and Company, Debra is the National Disney Travel Examiner. Put on your set of ears and join her in stalking the Mouse.

Dreams really do come true at Disney

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 29, 2011

I have been to Walt Disney World 6 times. 2 times with my parents when I was a teenager, 2 times with my parents, my brother and his wife, and my husband and son, one time just my husband and I and one time just my little family of three. All of these visits to my second home have amazing memories, like my first visit, or my sons first hair cut, which we had done at Harmony Barbershop, or a week to experience the magic just my husband and I on our 10^th wedding anniversary. But nothing compares to the memories that were made on our last trip in October/ November of 2010.

It was our first family trip with just the 3 of us, and we stayed at the Wilderness Lodge. That made it special unto itself. My husband is not a fan of roller coasters, and I LOVE them. So I was thrilled when my son who had just turned 7 less than a week before wanted to ride the coasters with me. We went on all of the Roller Coasters, some more than once. He loved them. And I was so happy to have something special for just me and my little man to do together in Disney.

My son is a huge Star Wars fan, so his memory that he will carry with him forever is the mad dash to be part of the Star Wars Jedi training. The ropes dropped and off we went, running, and it paid off. He was the last child in the line for the first show. He was thrilled; he was going to “fight” Darth Vader. He went through his training and then patiently waited for his turn, and then it came. With a big smile he walked up and took center stage to fight Vader. Then as he was finishing the storm troopers began to advance on him and he was told to Force them. Well this was the perfect child to pick for that, little did they know that during the whole trip every time we came to the automatic doors he would “force” them open for us. This was his highlight, and he still tells everyone how he got to force the troopers.

On our last full day there we were chosen to be the Flag Family at Wilderness Lodge. This to me was a once in a lifetime memory and an honor. We met Ranger Joe at the front desk. He asked for our letter that had been delivered to our room to notify us. We then began our journey to the roof.

First things first, take in the view. It was a cloudy day, and ended up raining most of the day, but the view. Wow. It was just amazing. My husband and I stood in awe as we looked out over the world. My son just ran around.

Ranger Joe was great with Cole, who had to raise all the flags. We were just there to watch. We learned about the 5 flags on the lodge and raised each one, starting with the American flag and ending with the Wilderness Lodge flag. After all the flags were raised we said the Pledge of Allegiance, and tears came to my eyes.

What a proud moment for myself and my family, like I said what an honor. Ranger Joe then presented us with a certificate for being the Flag Family on Thursday November 4, 2010. Some people asked me what we do to get chosen.

Well in most cases you are chosen at random, but after we did our online check in I sent a special request to them. I told them we were going to be celebrating our Sons 7 birthday and mine and my husband’s 11 wedding anniversary, which was the day after we left Disney.

It worked, we were chosen and it was a memory I will never forget. Our first trip with just our little family of 3 was the most special and Magical; Dreams really do come true at Disney.

Best wishes

Cynthia J. Settimo

This article comes to us from Cynthia, she is a fan of the Chip and Company website and is now a Chip Panel Columnist. She wanted to share some of her Disney Magic with everyone and hopes it brightens you day! The Chip Panel is still looking for Guest Bloggers. Click here if you want to learn more.

Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Celebrate a Decade of Delivering Top-Notch Service (chipandco.com)
The Truth About Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort And Spa!! (chipandco.com)

Pin Trading for Newbies – Realistic Tips

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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January 29, 2011

Pin Trading for Newbies – Realistic Tips

We’ve all seen them: the Professional Pin Traders descending on a new Pin release. They’ve been lined up for hours to be one of the first to own it. They have their Pin Trading Briefcases loaded with rare variations that the common Disney fan hasn’t even heard of. And they know about every upcoming Pin release almost before Disney does!

Pin Trading for Newbies – Realistic Tips

Darkwing Duck early Promo Pin. Note the original character name.

You might ask: If I want to buy a Pin, do I have to be like that?

Fear not, for Pin Trading is actually for everyone! Although Disney would like Pin Trading to become your latest obsession, it isn’t necessary to become involved in a sub-culture just to buy a pretty Pin. What follows are some basic tips on how to enjoy Pin Trading for the Newbie:

1. Buy only what you like. As with any collectible, some Pins will be more valuable later on than others. But nothing kills the joy of collecting faster than putting investment ahead of fun! I usually look for Pins that are colorful, well designed, or have my favorite character or attraction on it. I don’t worry about collecting entire sets or releases. Just buy what catches you eye; because contrary to what Disney wants you to believe, it’s OK to buy just one Pin.

Here is a word of caution: Disney has switched to a color-coding method for pricing new Pins. Each Pin Card will have a color sticker on the back that coincides with a Price Chart posted on a wall near by. Beware! This is a way for Disney to get you to lose track of how much you are spending while buying. So be sure to add the prices up as you pick out your favorite Pins.

2. Use a Lanyard. You can purchase a Lanyard / Pin set for less than buying the Pins on their own. So immediately, you are ahead of the price game. Then you can trade the Pins on the Lanyard that you don’t like for ones you do. This amounts to getting the Pins you want for less money than buying them separately. Also, wearing a Lanyard tells other Pin Traders and Cast Members that you are ready to Trade. And that brings us to…

Pin Trading for Newbies – Realistic Tips

Promo Lanyard for the opening of the new Hanes store at Downtown Disney.

3. Trade with other Guests. Look for other Pin Traders while you are walking around the Parks and Resorts, or while waiting in line for Rides and Attractions. This is a great way to pass the time! But remember, other Guests aren’t under any obligation to Trade with you. It is a voluntary transaction, so you will have to have a Pin they want for a Trade to take place.

4. Trade with Cast Members. Almost all Cast Members who have interaction with Guests will be wearing a Lanyard (or they have a small board with Pins for Trading under their Sales Counter), and will always be willing to stop what they are doing to Trade with you, and especially with children. Whereas other Guests can refuse to Trade with you, Cast Members will only do so if you offer a Pin that is not an official Pin Trading release. There are fake Pins as well as non-trading Pins out there. For children, Trading a Pin with a Cast Member can be a highlight of any Disney vacation!

5. Buy Combo Packs. As with buying a Lanyard, Combo Packs of Pins are an economical way to get into Pin Trading. Whereas individual Pins can cost from $8.95 to $10.95 or more, each Pin in a Combo Pack can average less than $5.00. I recommend looking for sets that are being liquidated at additional discounts. Remember, you can always Trade them with a Cast Member, so they don’t have to be Pins that you want for yourself.

Collectible Pin Set from Disney’s Movie Rewards.

6. Pick up old Pins Second-hand. Charity Shops, Garage and Yard Sales, and Antique Shops all yield a Trading Pin now and then. Usually you can pick them up for under $2.00. Trading Pins never ‘expire’ or become untradable. So if you find a Pin, even if you don’t like it, buy it for later Trading!

Pin Trading for Newbies – Realistic Tips

An older Pin release.

7. Display your Pins. Keeping your new acquisitions in a drawer is no fun! So think of a way that your family can display these colorful keepsakes. My wife and I use Belts that we attach our Pins to and then we hang them on the wall. One of my Disleelandia readers has her Pins attached to a large cloth banner, which she then hung on the wall. Some frame them. Whatever you choose to do, be sure to display your Pins where you can enjoy them for years to come!

Lee Beatens has two sides as a Writer/Artist. His writing side is showcased at the Blog called Disleelandia, and his artistic side is showcased at the Blog called The CANADIAN Kingdom. His improbable third side is showcased here.

Review: Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2 on Bluray

By

Chip

-

January 29, 2011

I had the pleasure of checking out this Disney Movie this past weekend. Let me just say if you have a little one who is into Dogs as much as my little one is I am sure you can relate with this review.

My little one LOVES Dog/Puppy Movies!!!! Oliver and Company, Beverly Hills Chihuahua 1, etc. If it has puppies in it you will find it in our library. So when I received in the mail Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2 we had to immediately stop what we were doing and watch it.

Over the course of the weekend I can say I have seen this movie about 15 times. Some directly and some indirectly. Having you computer in the family room makes for enjoying all the cartoons and movies a toddler watches. UGH!

While the movie doesn’t have a single soul from the previous film and I can only identify the voice of George Lopez as the sole returning cast member as Papi that doesn’t bode well for those hoping for a return of Drew Barrymoore, Jamie Lee Curtis, Andy Garcia and many more.

To a child these stars do not matter but for me I dislike it when you have new actors playing the parts of established characters. I can’t think of one movie this has worked. I think Disney should have gone with a new story line all together that way there isn’t this weirdness. The actors in the movie do a great job considering that have that big shoes to fill.

There are many of new celebs that make appearances in this film, you have seen most of them before but none really stand out. Which is ok considering the Dogs steal the show, and boy are they cute.

Story is decent and on par for a kids film. No major surprises and I will say it isn’t to long so it will keep your kids attention.

Would I run out and buy this film? Probably not, unless you kid is a Puppy Fanatic like mine. I would suggest adding it to your Netflix or Redbox box it one time for your little one. I am sure they will get a chuckle or two but don’t expect this movie to turn any heads, even little ones.

Beverly Hills Chihuahua Comes to Bluray and DVD February 1st 2011.

Disclosure: This review is based off of my own opinion of this movie. Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment furnished a copy of this title for review. All copyright images, and content belong to Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment.

Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2 Coming to Bluray/DVD with Bonus Sneak Peek (chipandco.com)
Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2 – $10 off Coupon (chipandco.com)

Review: Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2 on Bluray

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