Florida Vacations

Get your coffee fix at Disney World

2012-02-15T12:13:00.001-08:00

Get your coffee fix at Disney World

Get your coffee fix at Disney World
Where To Find The Best Character Meals At The Disney World Resorts
Disney World Refurbishment Schedule March 2012
Win “Timmy Time: Timmy Needs a Bath” on DVD
Disney Universe – All New Phineas & Ferb Downloadable Content
D23 Celebrates 3rd Anniversary With Twitter Contest for some cool prizes!
How to tour the Parks – Splitting up Epcot

Posted: 15 Feb 2012 12:00 PM PST

If your a coffee enthusiast like myself there is nothing better than a good cup of coffee in the morning. I love coffee so much even when its hot outside I pour my coffee over ice just to get my fix. Most people who have been to Walt Disney World know that the choices are very limited. They are better than they used to be but still not the greatest.

While I am not going to list every possible location to get a good cup of coffee at Disney World I will highlight a few of my favorites and then give you a chance to chime in on other places we need to try.

Kona Cafe at Disney’s Polynesian Resort – Probably the best place at Disney World for coffee lovers. The Kona Coffee they serve there in the French Press Pot is phenomenal! It is shipped in from Hawaii and has made a lasting impression on me that I will never forget. If you are not in the mood for Tonga Toast just stop by the Kona Cafe Bar right next door for some coffee to go.
The Writers Stop at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – A cozy little book store/coffee shop. They have a barista on staff whipping out the drinks for coffee fanatics. Many people have never stopped here but it is more known for the Carrot Cake Cookies.
Kusafiri Coffee Shop and Bakery at Disney Animal Kingdom – While most people have a hard time finding this shop, and it is more known for their CUPCAKES the Kusafiri Coffee Shop and Bakery has shade-grown gourmet coffees. It might be a long walk to get there but well worth it!

There are a ton of other places to get good coffee at Disney World like Contemporary Grounds, Grand Floridan Cafe and many more. Till Starbucks moves in were going to have to settle for what is out there. For now I want to hear from you where is your favorite place for a cup of coffee at Walt Disney World?

Let us know in the comment box below.

Disney World Quick Tips – Traveling to Disney with Friends (chipandco.com)
HUGE Disney Prize Pack Giveaway (chipandco.com)

Where To Find The Best Character Meals At The Disney World Resorts

Posted: 15 Feb 2012 10:00 AM PST

Posing with Pluto at Chef Mickey's

When it comes to choosing where to eat at Walt Disney World, for many the answer is obvious – Character Meals! Dining with characters can be fun, and not to mention convenient – where else can you enjoy yummy food while getting to meet multiple characters?

Below are some “must do” character meals, the top 3 in popularity, each for their own unique reasons:

Chef Mickey’s – Head on over to The Contemporary Resort for breakfast or dinner, where you can enjoy American fare (like mickey waffles, pastries, eggs and more at breakfast and an ice cream sundae bar and kid friendly eats at dinner!) in a relaxed buffet-style setting. Personally, I really like the food here, but for many, it’s not the food they are coming for, but the characters – you get to meet the “Fab Five” all in one place – Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto – which is why Chef Mickey’s is the the Best Character Meal for Character Meet and Greets, it’s the only meal in all of WDW that has these 5 characters in one place (oh and they are dressed up in chef outfits, which is cute!)

Ohana (breakfast) – This restaurant does a character meal only at breakfast time where you can hang out with Lilo and Stitch who are joined by their pals Mickey and Pluto. This meal is served family style (meaning they being the food right to your table, and you can have as much as you want!) in the gorgeous tropical themed Polynesian Resort. This meal wins the honor of the Character Meal with the Best Food – the Warm breakfast breads are to die for, and all the eggs/meat/potatoes come piping hot and fresh to the table, and the fruit is fresh and perfectly ripe every time

1900 Park Fare – This restaurant wins the award for the Character Meal with the Best Location – you can get breakfast or dinner at this spot located in The Grand Floridian Resort, which is by far the most grand (as the name implies!) and fancy resort on WDW property. Join Mary Poppins, Alice in Wonderland, and the Mad Hatter for a “Supercalifragilistic Breakfast” buffet including the standard Disney Breakfast fare of eggs, omelets, assorted meats/pastries/Mickey Waffles, and at dinner time Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner is hosted by Cinderella, Prince Charming, Lady Tremaine, and Anastasia and Drisella (a must-do fo any Cinderella fans like myself!). Dinner is also a buffet and includes carved meats and assorted salads/vegetables/sides and a yummy dessert assortment. I would highly recommend taking a pre or post meal stroll around the hotel grounds, checking out the beach and wedding areas especially – the views of the Magic Kingdom are amazing, and it doesn’t get much more beautiful than this!

No matter where you go to eat at WDW, you will get amazing food, polite and prompt service, and overall will have a great experience. If you are looking to make your dining experience even more special, consider dining with some Characters at the above restaurants – because Delicious Food + Fun Characters will be sure to equal a great meal for you an your family!

Top 5 Things to Know When Visiting WDW at the Holidays (chipandco.com)
Eats and Entertainment – Dinner shows at WDW (chipandco.com)

Disney World Refurbishment Schedule March 2012

Posted: 15 Feb 2012 08:00 AM PST

Here is the Refurb and Closure Schedule for Walt Disney World for March 2012 and beyond. Refurbishment/closure information is subject to change without notice and should be confirmed just prior to visiting. Updated information is available at the Disney World Website.

Current

Jamaica Village Pool (Caribbean Beach Resort) closed through 2/17/12. The feature pool and other leisure pools in each village will remain open.
Pool slide (Contemporary Resort) closed through 2/17/12. The pool will remain open.
Meadow Feature Pool Slide (Ft. Wilderness Resort & Campground) closed through 3/2/12 for refurbishment. The Meadow Feature Pool will remain open.
Beach Pool Slide (Grand Floridian Resort) closed through 3/2/12 for refurbishment. The Beach Pool will remain open.
Studio Backlot Tour (Hollywood Studios) closed through 3/10/12 for refurbishment.
Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure (Hollywood Studios) closed through 3/11/12 for refurbishment.
Dumbo the Flying Elephant (Magic Kingdom) closed through 3/12/12 for refurbishment and move to Storybook Circus.
Piano Pool (All-Star Music Resort) closed through 3/16/12 for refurbishment. The Calypso Pool will remain open.

Typhoon Lagoon closed through 3/17/12 for annual refurbishment.
Plaza Ice Cream Parlor (Magic Kingdom) closed through 3/27/12 for refurbishment.
Nanea Volcano Pool Slide (Polynesian Resort) closed through 4/1/12 for refurbishment. The pool will remain open.
Tutto Italia Restaurant (Epcot) closed through 4/30/12 for refurbishment.
Liberty Square Riverboat (Magic Kingdom) closed through 5/20/12 for refurbishment.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Magic Kingdom) closed through 5/27/12 for refurbishment.
Innoventions: House of Innoventions exhibit closed through May 2012 for refurbishment.
Grand Floridian Spa (Grand Floridian Resort) closed through mid-2013 due to construction at the resort. The Grand Floridian Fitness Center will remain open and guests may use The Spa at Saratoga Springs Resort.

Upcoming

Bay Cove Pool Slide (Bay Lake Tower at Contemporary Resort) closed 2/20/12-3/16/12 for refurbishment. The pool will remain open.
Magic Carpets of Aladdin (Magic Kingdom) closed 2/26/12-3/11/12 for refurbishment.
Magnolia Bend Leisure Pool (Port Orleans Resort – Riverside) closed 2/27/12-3/1/12 for refurbishment. The feature pool and all other leisure pools will remain open.
Ranchos Leisure Pool (Coronado Springs Resort) closed 3/11/12-3/14/12 for refurbishment.
Boardwalk Inn leisure pool closed 3/19/12-3/22/12 for refurbishment. The feature pool and villas leisure pools will remain open.
Test Track (Epcot) closed April 2012-September 2012 for transformation to the Chevrolet Design Center.
Liberty Square Riverboat (Magic Kingdom) closed 4/16/12-5/20/12 for refurbishment.
Lights! Motors! Action! Extreme Stunt Show (Hollywood Studios) closed 4/29/12-5/2/12 for refurbishment.
Cape May Cafe (Yacht & Beach Club Resorts) closed 7/9/12-8/3/12 for refurbishment.

Source Mousesavers Newsletter

Disney World Refurbishment Schedule February 2012 (chipandco.com)
Top Five Off the Beaten Path Must – Dos at Disney World. (chipandco.com)

Win “Timmy Time: Timmy Needs a Bath” on DVD

Posted: 14 Feb 2012 06:00 PM PST

JediMouseketeer.com, Sorcerer Radio and ChipandCo.com are teaming up to give away the NEW “Timmy Time: Timmy Needs a Bath” DVD courtesy of Lionsgate! Entry deadline is 2/19/12 at 12:01 AM! There will also be TWO winners chosen for two copies of the DVD!

Purchase your copy of “Timmy Time: Timmy Needs a Bath” DVD HERE.

Check out my review of “Timmy Time: Timmy Needs a Bath” HERE.

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/timmytime

Program Website: www.timmytimedvd.com

To enter just use the Rafflecopter form below. Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DVD Review: “Timmy Time: Timmy Needs a Bath” Clean Fun For the Kiddies (chipandco.com)
“Timmy Time: Timmy Needs A Bath” Available On DVD January 24, 2012 (jedimouseketeer.blogspot.com)

Disney Universe – All New Phineas & Ferb Downloadable Content

Posted: 14 Feb 2012 04:00 PM PST

Gamers will suit up, power-up and battle through the suburbs of Danville in some of their favorite Phineas and Ferb costumes with the release of the "Phineas and Ferb" level downloadable content pack, available today for Disney Interactive Studios' Disney Universe. The new content is currently available for download for $4.99 on PlayStation®Network or for 400 Microsoft Points on Xbox LIVE® online entertainment network.

Based on Disney Channel’s Emmy Award-winning “Phineas and Ferb,” the #1 animated TV series among tweens 9-14, the "Phineas and Ferb" level in Disney Universe allows players to experience the adventures of Phineas, Ferb and friends in the suburbs of Danville firsthand. Gamers will be able suit up as Phineas, Ferb, Dr. Doofenshmirtz, Agent P and Candace as they utilize cool gadgets. The Chick-Inator will turn players into chickens in order to access small spaces, while the Atomic Leaf Blow-Inator will allow them to blow away piles of leaves to reveal collectibles and more as they advance through the neighborhood avoiding traps and hazards. The level will culminate as players battle Dr. Doofenshmirtz in an epic showdown to bring down his blimp and save a trapped passenger.

Now available on store shelves for the Wii™ system from Nintendo, Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation 3® computer entertainment system and Windows PC, Disney Universe offers a four-person multiplayer action experience, with frenzied gameplay that appeals to players of all ages. The "Phineas and Ferb" level joins other great Disney Universe environments, such as the Disney•Pixar hits WALL•E and Monsters, Inc., Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Academy Award® winning classics, The Lion King and Aladdin. The game features 45 classic and contemporary iconic character costumes, including ones inspired by Sam Flynn, Quorra and Clu (TRON), Baloo (The Jungle Book), Ariel (The Little Mermaid), Sulley (Monsters, Inc.), Nemo (Finding Nemo) and everyone's favorite pixie, Tinker Bell (Peter Pan). Dozens of other character costumes are also featured in the game, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy and Donald Duck.

Disney Universe will continue to expand with new content, including worlds, costumes, and more available for download, giving Xbox 360 and PlayStation®3 system owners an ever-evolving gameplay experience.

Published by Disney Interactive Studios, Disney Universe is rated E10+. Please visit www.DisneyUniverse.com for more information

Phineas & Ferb ‘Platypus Day’ Celebration coming March 3rd (chipandco.com)
Disney Renews ‘Phineas and Ferb’ For a Fourth Season (chipandco.com)

D23 Celebrates 3rd Anniversary With Twitter Contest for some cool prizes!

Posted: 14 Feb 2012 02:00 PM PST

As D23: The Official Disney Fan Club gets ready to celebrate its third anniversary in the midst of its most exciting year ever, D23 Members and Disney fans are invited to get in on the fun with a special, 23-day Twitter sweepstakes that combines the fun of Disney fandom, history and trivia with the thrill of a scavenger hunt.

Starting Feb. 17, D23′s “23 Days of Celebration” invites all Disney fans to help mark the third anniversary of the first and only official Disney fan club. Each day at approximately 10 a.m. Pacific time, D23 will provide a different challenge for the day – and the first person to submit a valid photo that matches the challenge will win a special D23 prize.

For instance, D23 Members and Disney fans may need to raid their photo albums for a picture of themselves in front of a certain Disney Parks attraction, or might be asked to take a digital snapshot with a D23 pin, or wearing a specific item of Disney apparel. Each day will offer a new challenge – and each day will present a new opportunity to win! Fans will submit photos via Twitter by "@ replying" @DisneyD23, including the hashtag #D23Sweeps.

Prizes will include exclusive D23 pins and patches, D23 collectible merchandise, and, on March 10 – D23's third anniversary – a special prize package.

The task and the prize will change on a daily basis, so be sure to follow "@DisneyD23" on Twitter to keep up with every challenge – and every winner – in D23's "23 Days of Celebration" anniversary sweepstakes! (Full rules are available at D23's website, http://www.disney.com/D23.)

D23 Events Go Coast to Coast and Park to Park (chipandco.com)
Win a Vacation of a Lifetime to Aulani Disney Resort & Spa in “John Carter: Journey to Aulani Sweepstakes” (chipandco.com)

How to tour the Parks – Splitting up Epcot

Posted: 14 Feb 2012 12:00 PM PST

Many people try to cram as many things in Epcot into one day. Back in the 80′s I used to do the same thing. I have been known do to all 4 parks in one day on many occasions. As I got older (and wiser) I realized Epcot is not a one day park. It is meant to be enjoyed slowly and broken up into several days.

On our past trip I was able to work up a nice 3 day Touring Plan for Epcot where you can really see EVERYTHING! It can be stripped down into 2 days but unless your only at Disney World for a few days try my way (its perfect for parents of infants and those under 5). Also please note we like to get to the parks early to avoid the crowds. If you come in after 10 you are probably going to run into lines. Finally we leave after lunch for naps so these are mainly for the morning hours and work great if you like Park Hopping, if you come in later you’re gonna hit lines and may slow you down some.

Day 1

Arrive at Epcot when it opens, after the little Park Opening Show head straight to The Land Pavilion and grab a Fast Pass and ride Soarin. If you have a little one don’t forget to do Parent Swap that way your little one can ride it with both parents.
After you have done Soarin now would be a good time for breakfast (if you have already eaten skip down to the next step) We love Sunshine Seasons for Breakfast! Good, fresh food, great for people watching, and you can even get sushi for breakfast (don’t ask)
Once you have consumed your meal or after you have ridden Soarin we like to take a nice little boat ride on Living with the Land. For me this has to be one of my favorite rides at Epcot. I studied Forestry and Horticulture in school so the greenhouses really fascinate me. The Behind the Seeds tour is something different to try.
About the time you are done with Living with the Land your Fast Pass should be ready to go. If not go watch the Lion King’s The Circle of Life show. Most times the wait is longer than the show.
At this point you have finished The Land Pavilion and you are ready to move on some place else. We like to stay on the Epcot's Future World (West) area. It should be around 11am and the World Showcase is opening which should ease the lines a little bit. Head over and ride The Seas with Nemo and Friends and Turtle Talk with Crush then shoot over to the Imagination Pavilion for Journey into Imagination with Figment. We wait on Captain EO and do it on Day 2.
Once you are done on the West Side you can head over and try some free beverages at Club Cool and play around in Innoventions.
It should be around 1pm so you can do lunch, head back to your room, or use your Lines App and Park Hop.

Day 2

Arrive at Epcot when it opens again but this time head to Test Track and the Epcot's Future World (East) side. Be sure to grab a Fast Pass before you jump on Test Track. Do the parent swap thing (if you got them) and have fun looking at all the cars outside of the ride. Last time we were able to ride Test Track 3 times in a 20 minute window and ended up giving our Fast Passes to a random family who were floored.
Next ride Mission: Space, Universe of Energy: Ellen's Energy Adventure and Spaceship Earth. I have always felt the East Side needs to have one more good ride to use up the morning.
Since the baby care center is on this side we usually pop in for a little while before we head off to ride Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros. You could easily head over to Captain EO after Spaceship Earth if you wanted. I would avoid Soarin as that area is going to very busy at this point. Club Cool again is always nice or you can visit the other side of Innoventions.
It should be around 1pm so you can do lunch, head back to your room, or use your Lines App and Park Hop. This is where you can make it a 2 day or 3 day Touring Plan so if you’re not coming back head out to the World Showcase and walk around. Epcot is our favorite park so we visit here 5-6 times a trip. Usually 3 mornings and 2 evenings.

Day 3

You have 2 methods you can do here. You can arrive at the Main Entrance and do Soarin & Test Track before the World Showcase Opens or you can arrive at 11am – 12pm and come in the back entrance. I have found that if Hollywood Studios has Magic Hours in the AM we will go there ride some rides and then try to make it to Epcot right at 11am via the Friendship Boats.
Once in the park head towards France and work your way counter-clockwise. Pick any showcase to stop and have lunch. Ride the rides and take in all the shows. There is no rush and be sure to explore EVERYWHERE. Kidcot Stations are perfect for little ones as it gives them a great FREE souvenir!
If your into alcohol you can also try to Drink Around the World Showcase. La Cava de Tequila is by far my favorite stop and make for the perfect walking drinks. Try the Cucumber!
By the time you have worked your way around the World Showcase it should be dinner time. Again Epcot has some of the best Dining Options in all of Walt Disney World. If you planned it right you could get a great seat for Illuminations. We love the view from Tokyo Dining!

So there you have it you have just tackled Epcot the Chip and Company way. This is my tried and true method for getting the most out of Epcot. Individual results may very and please keep this article to yourself. I don’t want everyone doing it

Top 10 Epcot “Must Dos” (chipandco.com)
Epcot Tuesday’s — The Land (mydreamsofdisney.com)

2012-02-15T11:36:00.001-08:00

Forum with theme-park designers set for history center

Posted: 15 Feb 2012 07:50 AM PST

Two panels of theme-park design experts will gather Feb. 24 at the Orange County Regional History Center in a forum that also serves as a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.

Representatives from Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, Busch Gardens and Nickelodeon will discuss styles and philosophy about theme-park attractions and shows. A Q&A will follow each forum, with a silent auction in between, featuring original artwork, park memorabilia and collectibles from Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights.

Panelists for the 6:30 p.m. session will be Ron Hines, David Hughes, T.J. Mannarino, Scott Swenson, Lora Wallace and Mike West. Panelists for the 9 p.m. session will be Kenny Babel, Vicki Bowlin, Kim Gromoll, Curtis Hopkins, Guy Petty and Mike Wallace. The moderator will be Mike Aiello.

Tickets are $25 per session.

All proceeds go to American Cancer Society. The forum was started three years ago to support designer, Stephanie Girard, who passed away in December after a seven-year battle with colon cancer.

For more information, call 407-836-7010 or go to www.thehistorycenter.org.

FloridaGoGo.com: Win a Fort Lauderdale Beach resort getaway!

2012-02-15T05:00:00.000-08:00

Can’t see the images? Click here for the web version of this email.

Welcome to this week's edition of FloridaGoGo!

Win a Fort Lauderdale Beach resort getaway!

Enter now for a chance to win a two-night stay for you and a guest in a direct ocean view guestroom at the Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Spa in Fort Lauderdale.

Be part of a waterway expedition with Paddle Florida

How would you like to enjoy glorious Florida scenery, get a workout, dine al fresco with new friends, explore nature and support a charity - for less than $100 a day?

Gallop to Ocala's horse country

Adults can indulge their equestrian fantasies and kids will find plenty of opportunities to horse around - even fingerpainting, with a pony as the canvas.

Get your groove on at Islamorada's Woofstock

Dog and music lovers can take a "paws" for the cause at the third annual Woofstock Music Fair set for Saturday, March 10, at Islamorada's Founders Park, mile marker 87.

FloridaGoGo of the Week:

Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key

Spend an hour or a day learning all about Dolphin Research Center's family of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions. Experience the different "dolphinalities" during regularly scheduled narrated sessions. Each session demonstrates a different aspect of these amazing animals' lives. From high-flying athletics and Dolphin Fun Facts to medical behavior training and research-in-progress, no two sessions are alike. Join their fun and cheer their progress. They love an audience!

Details: 58901 Overseas Highway, Grassy Key; (305) 289-0002; www.dolphins.org

Travelzoo Deal of the Week

• $104 & up - JetBlue Nationwide Fare Sale (R/T incl. Tax)

View More Great Deals

Share your travel photos

You're invited to participate by sharing your travel photos and stories. You can send your travel tips and stories to floridagogo@pbpost.com, and upload your photos by visiting PostPix.

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Beach Blog

2012-02-14T23:27:00.001-08:00

Beach Blog

Oyster mat making workshop in Brevard County on Wednesday

Posted: 13 Feb 2012 06:18 AM PST

Here’s a fun environmental project, especially for those who love oysters.

There is a workshop on Wednesday, from 10 a.m. to noon for people to make oyster mats, which are designed to help restore struggling oyster reefs.

The workshop will be held at Riverwalk: A Family Park, 5355 US Hwy 1, in Rockledge.

Volunteers are needed to help restore dead oyster reefs for the Brevard Zoo's Oyster Reef Restoration Project in the Indian River Lagoon. To help restore oyster reefs in Mosquito Lagoon,volunteers make oyster shell mats. Each mat is made up of 36 oyster shells attached vertically with zip ties.

The mats are later transported to the Mosquito Lagoon, where they are attached to each other, forming a large quilt-like structure where new oysters can settle and grow. Efforts will aid the growth of oysters in the estuary and contribute to overall water quality in the Indian River Lagoon.

The event is free and open to anyone 12 years of age or older. Volunteers under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult.

Restaurants that Need Updating – Epcot’s China Pavilion

2012-02-14T12:07:00.001-08:00

Restaurants that Need Updating – Epcot’s China Pavilion

Restaurants that Need Updating – Epcot’s China Pavilion
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Restaurants that Need Updating – Epcot’s China Pavilion

Posted: 14 Feb 2012 10:00 AM PST

The China Pavilion has some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Epcot. The Pavilion is a great visual representation of China, complete with a replica of the Temple of Heaven, ponds, bridges, and artwork representing the country of China. Unfortunately, there is one thing completely lost in translation: the food.

From reputation alone, I have avoided the Nine Dragons. Reviews call it “flavorless” and recommend stopping pretty much anywhere else. If you have a good Chinese restaurant in your home town, you will most likely be disappointed by the food here. Definitely not “wowed.” My experience comes from lunch several years ago at the Lotus Blossom Cafe – the counter service option in the China Pavilion.

Similar to mall food, the options were limited, and the flavors were greasy and not tasty enough for the grease. Though I’ve heard great things about the egg rolls, the meal that I had sticks out for one reason – I have no idea what I ate, I just remember thinking that it was not good. Surrounded by so many other great pavilions with other counter service options, I would definitely recommend to stop and watch the Chinese Acrobats, but to continue walking when you’re hungry for a full meal.

Enjoy the stunning Pavilion, but for me – let’s update the food options!

Image via Wikipedia

Top 10 Epcot “Must Dos” (chipandco.com)
Pictures in the Park – China Pavilion (mydreamsofdisney.com)

New Disney Junior Toy Line at Star-Studded Event During 2012 American International Toy Fair

Posted: 14 Feb 2012 08:00 AM PST

Disney Consumer Products (DCP) unveiled a colorful and playful assortment of more than 130 toys inspired by four series on Disney Junior.

Don’t forget Disney Junior will be launching a 24-hour channel for kids age 2-7 on March 23!

Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse were joined by special guests Sharon Osbourne and David Arquette, voices of Mama Hook and Skully on Jake and the Never Land Pirates, to treat the toy and entertainment industry audience to a light-hearted talent show previewing new toys and upcoming content inspired by Jake and the Never Land Pirates, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Minnie’s Bow-Toons, and Doc McStuffins, a new animated series set to debut on Disney Junior next month about a six-year-old girl who heals toys and stuffed animals out of her backyard clinic.

The new Disney Junior toy line is packed with creativity to inspire hours of imaginative play based on popular play patterns with preschool-aged kids. The line features colorful play sets, figures and feature plush from Fisher Price; role play sets, accessories, plush and dolls from Just Play; interactive board games from Wonder Forge; children’s electronics from VTech; ride-ons from Kiddieland; and bikes and scooters from Huffy, among other products. Popularity for the breakout hit series Jake and the Never Land Pirates has created a pent-up demand for the series’ first toy line. While Mickey Mouse proves once again that he offers versatile appeal to a new generation of fans with both farm- and dance-themed toys. Minnie Mouse, the leading lady of Disney Junior, gives girls new ways to play with fashion, kitchen and travel-themed play sets and role play. And Doc McStuffins, the newest gal on the Disney Junior block, will inspire nurturing play through doctor-themed role play, dolls and accessories.

“Disney Junior has proven to be a favorite with preschoolers and their parents; consumer response has been so strong that it has generated tremendous demand for products and resulted in our most robust Disney preschool toy line ever,” said J.D. Edwards, senior vice president, media networks licensing for DCP.

Osbourne and Arquette were each presented with custom-made toys inspired by their characters while guests enjoyed a sneak preview of Jake and the Never Land Pirates: Peter Pan Returns, a primetime special premiering tonight at 7 p.m. EST/PST on Disney Channel. In this highly anticipated episode, Peter Pan makes his first-ever appearance on the series, returning to Pirate Island to enlist Jake, Izzy, Cubby and Skully in finding his lost shadow.

Key toys from the new Disney Junior toy line include:

Jake and the Never Land Pirates— A breakout hit, Jake and the Never Land Pirates ranked as 2011′s #1 cable TV series for boys 2-5, a spot it continues to hold, generating strong consumer demand for a merchandise line that allows fans to take home their favorite characters. A brand new toy line releasing in June will feature plush, role play and accessories from Just Play and action-oriented play sets and figures from Fisher Price, including:

Jake’s Pirate Ship (MSRP $44.99, national retailers, June 2012)— Designed after Bucky, Jake’s ship featured in the series, this swashbuckling pirate ship rocks and rolls when pushed along a surface, with Skully smartly perched on the lookout. Kids can join Jake and his crew to live a pirate’s life through multiple pirate-themed phrases and songs. To really bring the adventure home, kids can fire water out of the cannon or stage a surprise croc attack.

Mickey Mouse Clubhouse – A viewer favorite, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse delivered last year’s #1 preschool telecast for kids 2-5 and inspired an imaginative toy line of space-themed play sets and figures. This year, Fisher Price has developed a new line featuring fun and interactive play sets, figures and vehicles inspired by the upcoming Mickey Mouse Clubhouse special, Mickey and Donald Have a Farm, premiering this fall. Mickey Mouse will also move like never before with a new feature plush. Key toys releasing in 2012 include:

Mickey’s Farm Play Set (MSRP $44.99, national retailers, Aug. 2012)— Kids can create their own fun farm stories with Mickey Mouse and his friends with this new play set that features realistic animal sounds and fun farm music. Character figures and animals can go for a spin on the dance floor, and a silly hand moves between the silo and windmill.

Master Moves Mickey (MSRP $69.99, national retailers, Aug. 2012)—Decked out in his freshest dance gear and ready to get down, Master Moves Mickey dances and interacts, showing off some never-before-seen break-dance moves, ending in a signature handstand. His moves are hotter and hipper than ever! Master Moves Mickey features original music tracks, funky beats and plenty of awesome humor to get the whole family up and dancing.

Minnie’s Bow-Toons —Based on a popular episode of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, this new series of shorts finds Minnie and her good friend Daisy Duck running Minnie’s Bow-Tique, a specialty shop which stocks only bows and bowties. Highlighting the themes of friendship, fashion and travel, DCP will introduce an adorable pink and polka-dotted line of Minnie Mouse toys including kitchen and fashion-themed role play from Just Play and dolls and accessories from Fisher Price.

Minnie’s Kitchen (MSRP $74.99, national retailers, Aug. 2012) – This colorful, multi-level play set has everything girls need to cook up their own kitchen adventures. Featuring multiple ‘flipping’ functions to maximize the play experience and creativity in the kitchen, the set includes a sink that flips to a hidden cutting board and dish rack that flips to a hidden blender. Girls can cook up their own treats with a frying pan to flip a Minnie-shaped pancake and flipping recipe book for inspiring new ideas. The kitchen includes Minnie’s voice and realistic kitchen sounds.

Doc McStuffins – Debuting next month, this imaginative animated series features six-year-old Doc McStuffins, who communicates with and heals stuffed animals and toys out of her backyard playhouse clinic. Little girls can nurture their own toys with a fun new assortment of products from Just Play, including:

“Time for Your Check Up” Doc Doll with Lambie (MSRP $34.99, national retailers, Aug. 2012) – Girls can bring home their new friend and sing along to the entire ‘check-up’ song with Doc as they nurture their own toys. Doc comes to life, speaking more than 10 phrases and can bring her friend Lambie to life with the touch of her stethoscope, which activates with lights and sounds.

Disney Junior Orders New Episodes of “Minnie’s Bow-toons” (chipandco.com)
24 Hour Disney Junior Set to Launch March 23rd (chipandco.com)

LEGO Systems Unveils 2012 Collection at American International Toy Fair

Posted: 13 Feb 2012 06:00 PM PST

-Every brick tells a story as children of all ages and interests will find a set or theme to inspire build and play adventures with new construction kits, preschool toys, board games and activity playsets-

At the American International Toy Fair in NYC LEGO unveils its largest collection of build and play toys ever–more than 200 new products for children of all ages and interests. Boys and girls will be inspired to build with open-ended LEGO® building sets or with themes such as city, dinosaurs, monsters, ninjas, heroes, and friendship.

“2012 marks our 80th year in business, and the classic LEGO brick continues to grow in popularity among children of all ages, thanks to our strong collection of evergreen themes, the best licensed properties on the market and brand extensions that help us to engage any interest or building ability,” said Soren Torp Laursen, president, LEGO Systems. “We have welcomed many new children into the LEGO play experience in the past year, and we know that our new collection—which brings many different play patterns into construction—will continue to excite them and will attract even more children who have yet to discover the creative joy of construction play.”

Preschool Building (ages 1 1/2+)
LEGO DUPLO® introduces youngsters to building and delivers so many ways to play. Highlights include new Read and Build ($12.99 each), a series of kits that blend early reading with construction play, encouraging youngsters to build along as their parents read to them. Creative Sorter ($19.99) and Creative Cakes ($24.99) turn ordinary storage solutions into part of the build-and-play fun. The collection of “My First” DUPLO sets – My First Fire Chief ($9.99), My First Build ($24.99), My First Farm ($24.99) and My First Gas Station ($29.99) – combine building and role play, while fostering creativity and imagination. Additions to the LEGO DUPLO brand Cars 2™ line and a new DUPLO brand Disney Princess collection let children recreate favorite scenes and role play with beloved characters from their favorite feature films ($12.99 – $39.99).

Classic LEGO Building (ages 4+)
Open-ended Bricks & More sets ($9.99-$29.99) offer a versatile assortment of LEGO bricks and elements to set imaginations in motion, with building instructions and visual inspiration to bring children’s ideas to life. CREATOR™ kits ($5.99 – $79.99) offer 3-models-in-1 box in themes such as vehicles, creatures, and buildings, allowing children to build, play, and then rebuild their creations. Experienced builders enjoy the challenge of TECHNIC® sets, such as the Quad Bike ($24.99) and Jet Plane ($49.99), which replicate the movement of real-life vehicles and machinery.

LEGO Themes (ages 5+)
Designed from the input of girls and their moms around the world, LEGO Friends delivers a new theme option for builders ages 5 and up. Every set includes at least one of five best Friends in the form of a new mini-doll figure to inspire role play and stories after the building is complete. Andrea’s Stage ($9.99) is the perfect place to practice performing arts before the Friends hang out at the City Park Cafe ($29.99). Mia, who loves animals, volunteers her time at the local Heartlake Vet Clinic ($39.99). Olivia’s House ($69.99) features interior details and a modular construction that allows for the home to be built in a variety of different styles.
Six LEGO DINO sets create a jungle world where a team of scientists are trying to keep the dinos from fleeing the jungle and invading the city. Builders help round up the loose dinos with the Raptor Chase ($29.99) or the T-Rex Hunter ($69.99), keeping them at bay and the city safe with the Dino Defense HQ ($99.99).

New LEGO MONSTER FIGHTERS launches in August, taking builders’ imaginations to a bone-chilling world of classic monsters trying to blot out the sun forever. Builders help the team of Monster Fighters in a collection of seven sets ($6.99-$99.99) to overtake the mummy, werewolf, swamp creature, vampire, ghosts and mad professor.

Action and adventure continues to build in LEGO CITY. Five Transportation sets ($19.99 each) encourage classic role play for City builders, while new Forest Fire and Forest Police themes ($5.99-$79.99) take rescue heroes beyond city limits to protect and serve. In August, builders can create heavy duty machinery to dig for gold in the new Mining theme ($11.99-$99.99).

One of the most successful LEGO themes ever, NINJAGO introduces a new chapter to a storyline that merges classic construction with social and virtual gaming experiences, anchored by 26 episodes of the NINJAGO: Masters of Spinjitzu animated television series airing on Cartoon Network. Children can customize Spinners (13 to collect, $9.99 each) with Booster Packs ($4.99 each), or construct 11 new building sets ($6.99 – $119.99), such as Destiny’s Bounty ($79.99), an ancient shipwreck hiding powerful treasure.

Collectors will rejoice over 48 never-before-seen LEGO Minifigures sold separately ($2.99 each) in unmarked packaging via three new series releasing throughout the year.

Licensed Building Fun (Ages 2+)
LEGO DC Universe™ Super Heroes recreates famous comic heroes and villains. Available now, a collection of four BATMAN™ sets includes The Batcave ($69.99) featuring characters Bruce Wayne, Batman, Robin, Poison Ivy and Bane. Superman™ vs. Power Armor Lex ($19.99) creates a scene where Wonder Woman is captured by Lex Luthor.

Five LEGO MARVEL Super Heroes sets launching in May feature The Avengers in sets such as Wolverine’s™ Chopper Showdown ($19.99) and Hulk’s™ Helicarrier Breakout ($49.99).
New for 2012, epic characters and scenes take LEGO form in the new LEGO THE LORD OF THE RINGS™ collection, based on the three films in THE LORD OF THE RINGS trilogy. Six building sets launch in June ($12.99-$129.99). To coincide with the fall movie premiere, a collection of LEGO THE HOBBIT™ building sets launches late 2012.

Partnership with Disney continues in 2012 with eight new building sets inspired by the world-renowned CARS™ film franchise that children can use to recreate their favorite characters ($6.99-$49.99).
The popularity of LEGO STAR WARS™ continues to build with 20 new sets inspired by the Star Wars™ film saga and the animated television series, Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Highlights include new TIE Fighter™ ($54.99) and X-Wing Starfighter™ ($59.99) available now, and The Malevolence™ and Jabba’s Palace™ (both $119.99) in August.

The wacky hilarity of LEGO SpongeBob SquarePants™ returns with new building adventures from Bikini Bottom – The Flying Dutchman ($24.99) and Bikini Bottom Undersea Party ($49.99), both available now.
Constraction (Ages 6+)

The LEGO Hero Factory is producing new buildable, pose-able figures with powerful tools to tackle any challenge; product codes link to a new online game to deliver another level of immersive play ($8.99 – $34.99). Six buildable figures based on iconic characters also come to life – three from LEGO DC Universe Super Heroes and three from LEGO MARVEL Super Heroes ($14.99 each).
LEGO Games (ages 6+)

Building game nights to new heights, LEGO Games, the first collection of board games to build, play and change, grows. CITY Alarm ($19.99) encourages hours of family fun, and a brand new addition to the HEROICA adventure game genre, Ilrion ($19.99) can be played separately, or together with other HEROICA games to create a new and different adventure game challenge. Two additional games, launching in the fall, will be announced later in the year.

FREE Child’s Admission To LegoLand On Lego Packages (couponingtodisney.com)

Safety That Sticks: The Ultimate Convenience In Child Safety

Posted: 13 Feb 2012 02:00 PM PST

If you have you ever lost your child, even for a moment, you know that it is every parent's worst nightmare. And it happens to ninety percent of all parents. Now there's finally a safety idea parents can stick with:

SafetyTat®, "The Tat That Brings Kids Back!", inventor of children's safety tattoos featuring a parent's mobile telephone number to easily reconnect parent and child in the event they get separated, has just made a brilliant invention irresistibly convenient SafetyTat's new line of children's safety tattoos, Quick-Stick Write-on! Tattoos, are the ultimate convenience.

SafetyTat was recently named by Disney Internet Group's iParenting Media as one of the Greatest Safety Products, selected based on its fun value, product quality, ease of use, play duration and educational nature and uniqueness, among other criteria. Hundreds of products were submitted for judging. All products underwent a thorough evaluation process that uses internationally recognized standard of quality assurance.

These revolutionary safety tattoos are applied without water; they can be used at a moment's notice anytime parents are with their children in a crowded place. And, unlike many tattoos, they won't rub off. Customizable on-the-spot, a parent simply "writes-on" their mobile telephone number directly onto the tattoo in the space provided, creating an easy way to reunite a parent and child should they get separated. Quick-Stick Write-on!

Tattoos come in kid-friendly designs for both boys and girls. And the best part about them – kids love to wear them. The secret behind this innovative tattoo is Tateck®, SafetyTat's proprietary tattoo material. One-of-a-kind, Tateck is a micro-thin elastomer that is applied like a sticker to the skin – simply peel and stick. It is instantly waterproof and stays in place for up to two weeks even on the most active of children.

Tateck is medical-grade stretchable, flexible and breathable material that is opaque in color making it highly visible and "Tateck is simply amazing. We have worked tremendously hard over the past year to develop this material as the ultimate in convenience for Moms and Dads," explains Michele Welsh, Founder of SafetyTat. "The best part is its vibrancy; it simply 'pops' with color and looks great on all skin tones."

SafetyTat temporary tattoos are perfect for any crowded venue where a parent and child may get separated: shopping malls, airports, theme parks, water parks, field trips, traveling, stadium events, site-seeing, beaches, pools, etc. SafetyTat carries a full line of Quick-Stick Write-On! and Original Tattoos available at www.SafetyTat.com; starting at $7.99.

Top 5 Magic Kingdom Hidden Details

Posted: 13 Feb 2012 12:00 PM PST

Anyone who has been to Walt Disney World knows that Disney specializes in the details; and I'm always on the look-out for new details or hidden Disney magic that isn't so easy to find! Today I'm sharing with you my favorie Magic Kingdom hidden details that I have discovered on my visits to the park. Enjoy!

5. Cinderella’s Wishing Well-Located on the path running around the castle near Tomorrowland, you will find a wishing well sitting just off the path facing the castle! You can tell by its details that this wishing well definitely belongs to Cinderella and it makes a great photo spot! Also, the money tossed in the well goes toward charity. Truly magical!

4. Pirate Chess Game-Hidden inside the queue for Pirates of the Caribbean, locked in a cell, be sure to look for two pirate skeletons playing chess! Not only is this fun to find; but chess pros will know that the game pieces are arranged into a deadlock. No wonder they died sitting at the board! How do you know how to find this hidden detail? When waiting in line, look through the prison bars and look down!

3. Cinderella Fountain-Tucked in a corner in Fantasyland, just behind Cinderella Castle, you will find a fountain featuring Cinderella herself! This sweet fountain is a big hit with little princesses; and those of a shorter stature will see that the pattern behind the fountain makes a crown behind her head when viewed at the right angle!

2. Disney’s Coat of Arms-On the front and back of Cinderella Castle, keep your eyes up to find a seal displaying the Disney Coat of Arms. What a great detail and homage to the man responsible for it all!

1. Gus and Jacque-When waiting for to take your picture with Cinderella at Cinderella’s Royal Table, keep your eyes up! Perched above your head are two familiar friends looking over Cinderella, her loyal mice friends, Gus and Jacque!

Have you seen any of these hidden details during your visits to the Magic Kingdom?

Related Articles:

Hidden Gems: Cinderella Wishing Well (aglassslippervacation.com)
Teaching History Through the Parks: Magic Kingdom (chipandco.com)
Best Things I Love About Disney-Pirates of the Caribbean (chipandco.com)

Disney World Quick Tips – Traveling to Disney with Friends

2012-02-13T12:08:00.001-08:00

Disney World Quick Tips – Traveling to Disney with Friends

Disney World Quick Tips – Traveling to Disney with Friends
HUGE Disney Prize Pack Giveaway
Chip & Company Week in Review, February 13, 2012
RIP Whitney Houston: A Look at Her Disney Legacy
Disney Cruise Line for Kids: The Oceaneers Club and Lab
Eight Lands to Explore at the New Disney California Adventure Park This Summer

Disney World Quick Tips – Traveling to Disney with Friends

Posted: 13 Feb 2012 10:00 AM PST

Our past couple of trips to Disney World have really been a lot of fun! My writer Melissa and her husband from Disney on Wheels have managed to vacation at the same time as us, even stayed in the room next door on our trip last September. They are our Disney buddies!

I know many people don’t like to travel to the parks with friends or family as things can get really stressful. Not to mention trying to book meals, coordinate parks, and dealing with little ones can really drive a wedge between you and traveling companions.

While no two groups of people are alike I want to offer up some tips that help us when planning our trips with friends.

Plan your meals before you go – Sit down and write up where you want to eat and compare the 2 lists. Mel & I usually use Google Docs and share the spreadsheets. I can see where they want to go and vise versa. While we don’t plan every meal together as I am sure our kids probably get on their nerves we like to do about 75% of the meals together. Not to mention I am a Meatarian and Melissa is a Vegetarian.

Tip – If you are not a morning person (like me) limit the number of breakfasts and maybe go all Table Service Meals together. Kona Cafe has some great coffee to help perk you up!

Pick parks you will visit alone – Don’t plan on being at the same park every day together. Unless you are besties and you don’t mind hanging out 24/7 it is probably better to have some alone time with your partner or family.

Don’t be afraid to say ‘Well see you later’ – Disney World can be stressful! Our trip this past September was insane their were wall to wall people and it was really hot too! There were many times we told our friends “You guys go on without us, were going to the baby care center and will catch up with you at dinner.” Afternoon naps/breaks are perfect for this.

Melissa and I did this before we met for the first time. I told her if they wanted to breakaway or if I was getting on their nerves just say you are gonna go on ahead for a while. I would rather someone do that then for them to get mad or upset over something at the parks.

Be patient – Unless you are hardcore Disney Vacationer you are gonna have to stop for restrooms, drinks, diaper changes, etc. When you have other people traveling with you there are gonna be bumps in the road. I know I take about 2,000 pictures every trip so if your traveling with me I probably get on your nerves. But just try to be patient and know that the rides aren’t going anywhere. R-e-l-a-x.

Take extra care when traveling with people with special needs – As you probably guessed Melissa is in a wheel chair. That is where she gets the name Disney On Wheels. There were times when we ran into rides she couldn’t get on or took a little longer to get on them. It was nice to be able to help her get on Pirates for the first time in 11 years! You might be traveling with someone in a wheel chair, who is blind, deaf, etc. Be aware of their needs and do your research on Touring the Parks with people with special needs. If you use the search in the top right side of the page you can pretty much find thousands of Disney World traveling tips!

Melissa is working on a list of all the rides and attractions at Disney World that are accessible for people with a wheelchair. So keep an eye out for that. Also she will be offering up tips and tricks for each rides to make your visit much easier!

I hope these tips will help things go smoothly for you on your next trip to Disney World or Disneyland with Friends or Family. If I missed anything let me know in the comment box below.

P.S. – As I write this article we are planning our Feb 2013 with Andrew & Melissa!

Is Disney World becoming too crowded? (chipandco.com)
Disney World Quick Tips – Try something new (chipandco.com)

HUGE Disney Prize Pack Giveaway

Posted: 13 Feb 2012 08:00 AM PST

It’s time for another giveaway from Chip and Company and Disney on Wheels! Melissa & Drew picked up some AWESOME prizes on their recent vacation at Walt Disney World with me and my family. It was nice to see Mel & Drew again at Disney World and to help Mel finally get on the Pirates of the Caribbean Ride after so many years. Check out that very heartwarming article from Mel… Now on to the GIVEAWAY!

Items included in the giveaway are:

A Dumbo Ear Hat

A Stuffed Jedi Mickey

A Disney Park Collection Pin

And as an added bonus this Walt Disney World Passholder exclusive calendar. There is a different Disney Animation photo for each month. You can mix and match as you choose or you can use the suggestions included.

To enter just use the Rafflecopter widget below. Thanks in advance for entering!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

$25 Disney Giftcard Giveaway (chipandco.com)
Disney World’s 40th Anniversary Prize Pack Giveaway (chipandco.com)

Chip & Company Week in Review, February 13, 2012

Posted: 13 Feb 2012 06:00 AM PST

Welcome to this week's edition of the Chip & Company Week in Review. There have been a lot of stories to read about, so here are the stories that caught our eye last week:

In a bit of Disney History, the reports are that Walt Disney is close to acquiring the script for "Saving Mr. Banks." This story tells how Walt Disney finally was able to acquire the script from P.L. Travers for the making of Mary Poppins.
Starting this Wednesday, February 15^th, the Magic Kingdom is introducing some new kids menu items.
Look out everyone, Perry the Platypus from Phineas and Ferb is kicking off Platypus Day this coming March 3^rd!
Chip brings us a very special First Look: Disney's Wreck-it Ralph!
The John Carter: Journey to Aulani Sweepstakes is under way. Make sure you enter to win a trip to Disney's newest Vacation Club resort!
Special thanks to Disneyland Resort for their $5 million dollar donation to CHOC Children's hospital. That donation was one of many that helped raise over $100 million dollars for the hospital project!
Sadly, Patricia Disney, the former wife of Roy E. Disney (the nephew of Walt Disney) passed away recently from Alzheimer's Disease. She was 77 years old. Our condolences go out to the Disney family in their time of sorrow.
Chip and Company is proud to announce our new partnership with the folks over at the Garden Grocer, Florida's #1 professional grocery delivery service!
Disney Baby has expanded their product line to include nursery, apparel, mealtime, and bathtime products.
Lastly, check out some of these fun facts for the 19^th annual Flower and Garden Festival!

That's our look at some of the news stories from last week, now let's take a look at some of the incredible original articles that our writers produce each and every day! Enjoy!

In the last of my iPad reviews, I wrote about the Disney Publishing App, Disney Princesses: A Royal Christmas!
Which is better, to have a table service reservation in the parks, or in the resorts? Lisa weighs in with her opinions on this dilemma in part one and part two of this miniseries!
Lastly, Jodi takes on the daunting task of informing us of her Top 10 Rides to Avoid after eating! That's a great piece of advice to remember on your next trip!

That's all we have for you this week. I hope you have a terrific week, and remember to check out Chip & Company often for the latest in Disney News, Views, Giveaways, and more! To keep up with the latest Disney news and views on the fly, check out the Chip & Company Facebook Page or follow Chip & Company via Twitter! Also, head on over to the Disney for Seniors page and tell Ken you hope he’s feeling better! Ken, get well soon my friend!

Chip & Company Week in Review, February 6, 2012 (chipandco.com)

RIP Whitney Houston: A Look at Her Disney Legacy

Posted: 12 Feb 2012 06:00 PM PST

Yesterday, the world was shocked at the untimely death of Whitney Houston. The superstar musician and actress died at the Beverly Hilton hotel in Beverly Hills at the age of 48. Many will remember her for her starring roles in such films as ‘The Bodyguard’ with Kevin Costner, or her long and wonderful music career, but many forget the many contributions she brought to the Disney company in the 1990′s and early 2000′s. Whitney starred alongside Denzel Washington and Courtney B. Vance in the 1996 movie ‘The Preacher’s Wife’, which was directed by Penny Marshall. She also went to go on and star in the ABC television remake of ‘Cinderella’, where she played Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother to Brandy’s Cinderella. She also produced both of the ‘The Princess Diaries’ films which starred Anne Hathaway and Julie Andrews, as well as the first two ‘Cheetah Girls’ films, which starred Disney star Raven-Symone. Disney has lost one of their best collaborators, and our hearts and prayers go out to Whitney’s family and friends during this very tragic and heartbreaking time. Hit the jump for a look at some of what she did for the company.

‘I Believe In You and Me’ From ‘The Preacher’s Wife’

‘Impossible/It’s Possible’ from ‘Cinderella’

‘The Princess Diaries’ Trailer

Disney Cruise Line for Kids: The Oceaneers Club and Lab

Posted: 12 Feb 2012 04:00 PM PST

My first cruise on the Disney Dream brought along other firsts as well: my first time cruising with 10-year old step-son and my step-son’s first time on the seas!

I must say that the experience far exceeded my expectations and I’m certain I can’t tell you how how much it surpassed everything my step-son had imagined!

We took a tour of the Oceaneer’s Club and Lab on embarkation day, as an adult and parent here is what impressed me the most:

The Security:

The bracelet system the club utilizes is genius. Each child receives a hospital style bracelet band that holds a small wrist-size transmitter with all their pertinent confirmation that you provide upon registration. The transmitter simply gets tapped on the keypad at the entry of the kids club and it automatically signs the child in. The kids get this process down in about 2 seconds. The transmitter and wristband are incredibly sturdy and can be worn 24/7, they are even waterproof. I recommend you leave the wristband on your child for the duration of your cruise because if you lose or damage the transmitter there is a $50 charge.

The check-in/out process: There are at least 4 people at both the Club and Lab desks at all times monitoring the check-in process. If your child is 10, you can elect if you’d like them to be able to check themselves in and out of the club or if you want an adult to do it (if you are traveling with other adult family members be sure to list all family members who are allowed to check your child in and out of the kids programs- if they aren’t on the list…it’s not happening!) In addition to your list of authorized family members, there is also a password (that you will provide at registration) that you must give each time you check the child out of the club. Worried about random adults just wandering around in the kids clubs? Disney has that taken care of too! There are blue landyards with a “pick up” tag on them that you must get before entering the club. This identifies you to the cast members as an adult looking to pick-up their child. If you don’t have one of those…you don’t get to be in the kids areas.

The Staff:

The Oceaneer’s Club and Lab staff are the best of the best. These folks work tirelessly to make sure our kids are having a good time. There are plenty of them to go around and supervise and they also participate in so many activities with the kids. There is always a friendly face to welcome your child in and greet them by name and don’t be surprised if your child prefers them over you.

Contact: If you are worried about your child not adjusting to the kids programs you have no worries. Each stateroom is equipped with 2 wave phones at no charge, these phones work everywhere onboard and can make and receive calls as well as text messages. If at anytime your child is uncomfortable or wants to leave the club a cast member will call and/or text both phones to let you know the child wants to be picked up.

The Stuff:

For some parents parting with their children is a traumatic experience, we make a million excuses…”He’s shy”, “I don’t want them playing video games all day”, “He doesn’t like strangers”…the list goes on and on. Disney has thought of all of this so you’re going to be hard pressed to find a reason your child CAN’T participate!

Although there are certain video game challenges (A WII Challenge and a Mario Cart Challenge) the gaming systems are not left on all day and are only turned on for the allotted amount of time for the planned event. So don’t worry about checking your child in only to find them in a vegetative state in front of a TV or game console when you pick them up.

There are various events going on throughout the day that appeal to each age group and interest. Among my son’s favorites were Super Sloppy Science (when we checked on him during this event he was wearing blue safety goggles and a white lab coat and was far too busy to be bothered by the likes of us!), Anyone Can Cook (inspired by Disney/Pixar’s Ratatouille) and the Magic Play-floor (think 70′s disco with today’s technology and Disney’s imagination)

Not sure what your child will be interested in and don’t want them to miss anything? The Personal Navigator you receive each day has a special section for the kids clubs activities, so you can simply find the events that interest your kids and see what times they are happening at. A highlighter comes in handy to mark those “don’t miss” events.

We still have yet to hear about all the adventures in the Oceaneer Club and Lab. Games, crafts, dance parties, Andy’s Room, Monster’s Inc playfloor, board games, video game challenges, trivia challenges, movies and more who can keep track?! I’m sure we’ll eventually hear all about what happened inside but onboard all we heard was “when can I go back?”

To book the perfect vacation for your entire family, contact Michele@PixieVacations.com for your free Disney Cruise Line quote and for more information. Check out my blog to hear more about my trip on the Disney Dream!

First Timer Primer: Disney Cruise Line Planning (chipandco.com)
New and Unique twists coming to the Disney Fantasy (chipandco.com)

Eight Lands to Explore at the New Disney California Adventure Park This Summer

Posted: 12 Feb 2012 02:00 PM PST

Today marks the 11th anniversary of Disney California Adventure park, and we've got some exciting news to share! When the expansion of the park is complete this summer, guests will have a total of eight themed lands to explore. With the addition of two new areas — Buena Vista Street and Cars Land — and slight changes to the names of some existing areas, the total number of themed lands will increase to eight and include:

"a bug's land"
Buena Vista Street
Cars Land
Condor Flats
Grizzly Peak
Hollywood Land
Pacific Wharf
Paradise Pier

As you already know, each of these lands will be filled with even more to do and see at Disney California Adventure park, including Mad T Party and Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop. All of these new lands and experiences will cap off a five-year expansion which has included the addition of Toy Story Mania!, Mickey's Fun Wheel, "World of Color," Silly Symphony Swings, The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel's Undersea Adventure, Goofy's Sky School, Paradise Garden Grill and Boardwalk Pizza and Pasta.

The new themed lands will be added to guide maps when the expansion is complete this summer.

Mad T Party Coming to Disney California Adventure Park in 2012 (chipandco.com)
Annual Passholder Preview at the Disneyland Resort (chipandco.com)

2012-02-13T11:45:00.001-08:00

Legoland Florida celebrates Valentine’s in a small way
Ripley’s mass wedding-vow renewal falls short of record
This week: Kelly Clarkson, Trace Adkins, Bret Michaels, Roberto Clemente movie

Legoland Florida celebrates Valentine’s in a small way

Posted: 13 Feb 2012 11:42 AM PST

Legoland Florida is playing Cupid in Miniland, having hooked up more than 100 couples in the various mini locales such as Las Vegas, Washington, New York and elsewhere.

Check out video of some of the Minilanders whose Facebook status is “in a relationship.”

Ripley’s mass wedding-vow renewal falls short of record

Posted: 13 Feb 2012 11:18 AM PST

More than 600 couples gathered at the Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium in St. Augustine to renew their marriage vows on Sunday. That was short of 1,088 couples needed to set a world record.

“We saw people from all walks of life, from all over the country and all over the world come together and reaffirm their love for each other,” said Kim Kiff, attraction manager.

Participants came from seven countries, including India, Italy, Jamaica, Germany, England, Canada and the United States. Folks came from 36 states.

Following the ceremony, couples celebrated with cake and tours of St. Augustine aboard Ripley’s Sightseeing Trains.

“This was such a great event and filled with inspiring, amazing personal stories. We may just ‘vow’ to do it again next year,” Kiff said.

This week: Kelly Clarkson, Trace Adkins, Bret Michaels, Roberto Clemente movie

Posted: 13 Feb 2012 07:46 AM PST

You’d best have a song in your heart this week at Central Florida’s theme parks. In-park concerts and other events are in full swing, building up to a blockbuster weekend. Let’s tackle it chronologically:

+ Carl Dixon, formerly of the Guess Who, performs a Velvet Unplugged concert at Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel at 8 p.m., Tuesday. It’s free if you want to stand, but cafe-style tables are available for $30 (seats two) or $50 (for four). For more info or to make table reservations, call 407-503-2402.

+ The Osmond Brothers perform as part of the Real Music Concert Series at Busch Gardens in Tampa, Wednesday through Saturday. Show times are 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. each day. More info: www.buschgardens.com/bgt.

+ It’s a doubleheader weekend for Mardi Gras events at Universal Studios. Fresh off the Super Bowl and the Grammys will be Kelly Clarkson on Saturday, followed by Boyz II Men on Sunday. The parade steps off at 7:30 p.m. followed by the concerts at 8:30 p.m. More info: www.universalorlando.com/mardigras.

+ SeaWorld Orlando’s Bands Brew & BBQ fest also goes back-to-back with Trace Adkins on Saturday and Kenny Rogers on Sunday. Show time is 4 p.m. both days. More info: www.seaworldorlando.com.

+ Silver Springs, the longtime attraction near Ocala, hosts two country acts on Saturday. James Otto takes the stage at 1 p.m., followed by Lee Brice at 3 p.m. More info: www.silversprings.com

+ On Sunday, the Busch Gardens version of Bands, Brew & BBQ features Bret Michaels. Show time is 5 p.m. More info: www.buschgardens.com/bgt.

+ There ARE a couple of non-musical options. On Saturday, the Orlando Science Center holds stargazing from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at its observatory plus two editions of a planetarium show “Orlando by Night” in the CineDome. Cost is $10 per person. For more info, go to www.osc.org.

+ On Sunday, the Orange County Regional History Center will hold two screenings of the rare 1975 film “Roberto Clemente: A Touch of Royalty” followed by discussions with producer-director Don Fedynak. Show times are 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. for the 30-minute film (narrated by Jose Ferrar), and they are included in regular history-center admission — $9 general, $6 for ages 5-12. The screening are in conjunction with the current exhibit: “Beyond Baseball: The Life of Roberto Clemente.” For more info: www.thehistorycenter.org.

And a reminder for those who go to Mardi Gras: Our Theme Park Rangers roundup

Beach Blog

2012-02-12T23:10:00.001-08:00

Beach Blog

Cocoa Beach cleaning up its beaches

Posted: 11 Feb 2012 05:45 AM PST

Notice cleaner beaches in Cocoa Beach?

That’s because the beach rakes have been busy at work this week, clearing out some of the flotsam that washes ashore.

City public works employees were driving particular rake, in a photo provided by the city of Cocoa Beach, near Fischer Park.

Top Five Off the Beaten Path Must – Dos at Disney World.

2012-02-12T12:06:00.001-08:00

Top Five Off the Beaten Path Must – Dos at Disney World.

Top Five Off the Beaten Path Must – Dos at Disney World.
Earl of Sandwich Joins Downtown Disney District
Marvel launches new cologne and perfume line
Michelle Obama Celebrates Let’s Move! and Disney Magic of Healthy Living at Disney World
Fun Facts Thrive At 19th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival
Win a Vacation of a Lifetime to Aulani Disney Resort & Spa in “John Carter: Journey to Aulani Sweepstakes”
Phineas & Ferb ‘Platypus Day’ Celebration coming March 3rd
Woman Arrested for Selling Bad Tickets to Walt Disney World, Universal, and Sea World

Top Five Off the Beaten Path Must – Dos at Disney World.

Posted: 12 Feb 2012 12:00 PM PST

The walkway from the Poly to the Grand Floridian.

If you’ve spent any time in a Disney resort room, you’ve seen Stacy’s Must-Do list highlighting the top attractions at Walt Disney World. Well, no disrespect to Stacy, but there are some low-key activities that deserve just as much attention.

1. People Watching. Quite simply, a Disney park is a buffet of humanity! On any given day, it seems like people from every walk of life and from all corners of the globe are walking down Main Street. Grab a cold drink and a chair and watch the world go by while everyone else is rushing.

2. Resort hopping: Spend an afternoon or even the entire day checking out how the other half vacations. You don’t have to be a guest to enjoy the amenities (minus the pool, of course), shopping, or restaurants. Even when I’m not staying there, I love to sit in the lobby of the Grand Floridian a few minutes and just soak up the atmosphere.

3. Eating in a signature restaurant. Don’t be afraid to try Disney’s signature restaurants, even if you have small children with you. Most, if not all, are appropriate for children. My personal favorite is the Californian Grill on top of the Contemporary Resort, which is the perfect introduction for small children to the better restaurants on site.

4. The walkway from the Polynesian to the Grand Floridian. Next time you go to the Magic Kingdom, stop by the Poly and walk to the Grand Floridian. Most guests who aren’t staying at these resorts don’t even know it exists, but it’s one of the prettiest spots in Disney World. The walk itself gives you hints of what’s to come, with glimpses of Space Mountain and Cinderella Castle in the distance.

5. Stay in the Magic Kingdom after closing. No, I’m not suggesting you camp out on Tom Sawyer Island (Note to self: Buy scuba gear and a tent.) But did you know that you can stay in the park for about an hour after closing? Cast members won’t allow you on the rides, but shops stay open a full hour after closing (except after special parties), so you can slowly make your way out of the park and avoid the crowds. I like to find a bench and watch the castle turn colors for a while and then do a bit of last minute shopping. Try to be out within that hour–cast members want to go home too. You’ll get some great pictures of an almost-empty Main Street and you’ll be rewarded with an empty bus back to your resort.

What are your must do’s?

Earl of Sandwich Joins Downtown Disney District

Posted: 12 Feb 2012 10:00 AM PST

Disneyland Resort today announced that Earl of Sandwich will open a new location at Downtown Disney in early summer 2012. The restaurant will offer guests a unique, casual-quick dining option while visiting Downtown Disney."We pride ourselves in giving our guests a unique experience at Downtown Disney through different retail and food offerings," said Tony Bruno, vice president of Resort Hotels and Downtown Disney. "This will be the only Earl of Sandwich in California and it is sure to be a favorite among our guests as it has been at Walt Disney World for nearly eight years."

The new restaurant, which continues to have historical ties to the inventor of the sandwich, the Sandwich family, will be adjacent to AMC Theatres. Signature hot sandwiches will be available including The Original 1762, a sandwich of freshly roasted beef, sharp cheddar and creamy horseradish sauce all on freshly baked artisan bread. Soups, salads, wraps and desserts also are on the menu. Earl of Sandwich offers a vast array of hot and cold beverages including The Earl's Grey Lemonade. Breakfast sandwiches and pastries will be available in the morning and a variety of catering options will be offered at this location.

"We are looking forward to the grand opening of our newest location at the Disneyland Resort," stated Robert Earl, chairman of Earl of Sandwich. "The success we've experienced at Walt Disney World, Disneyland Paris and our other 15 locations has proven that the quality of our food and our dining experience will bring guests back time and time again."

Earl of Sandwich joins approximately 50 retail, dining and entertainment venues that comprise Downtown Disney. Bridging the two theme parks and hotels, the 20-acre entertainment, dining and shopping district offers an eclectic experience that includes the World of Disney store, Build-A-Bear Workshop, ESPN Zone and House of Blues.

Disneyland Earl of Sandwich Official! Opening Early Summer 2012 (disneyfoodblog.com)
To Downtown Disney or Not? (chipandco.com)

Marvel launches new cologne and perfume line

Posted: 12 Feb 2012 08:00 AM PST

Marvel’s The Avengers may not hit theaters until May 4, but thanks to JADS International, LLC (JADS), fans can get an exclusive “whiff” of the much anticipated film. JADS, a company producing fine fragrances worldwide, is debuting their line of Marvel prestige colognes and perfumes at the Toy Industry Association’s (TIA) Toy Fair this weekend in New York City. The Avengers Cologne Set, Black Widow Perfume, Infinity Formula for Men, and Mischief Colognewill be available to the public in April in the U.S. and Canada.

“Everyone has a favorite comic book hero, right? Now fans can experience what they love about these iconic characters in a much more personal way,” said Andrew Levine, Chief Executive Officer of JADS. “We created a line of colognes and perfume inspired by Marvel’s The Avengers after we identified a demand in the marketplace.” John McGonigle, President of JADS, has inspired the company with his creative design and unique fan-centric product development that fit hand in hand with Marvel’s The Avengers storyline. “The scents are bold without being intrusive, distinctive and empowering. We are proud to bring these unique products to market and believe there is no better way to build fan affinity than through the use of personal fragrances.”

JADS Spring 2012 Line for Marvel’s The Avengers Include:

The Avengers Cologne Set features four heroic fragrances: Patriot Cologne: Your Attack Plan, Mark VII Cologne: Armor Up, Worthy: Posses the Power, and Smash!: Be Angry.

Patriot Cologne, inspired by Captain America, pays homage to the confident, stand-up-to-bullies, hard-working average Joe in everyman. The cologne features hints of green lime and white pepper with finishes of dry oak wood, sandalwood and tequila.
Mark VII Cologne, inspired by Iron Man, combines mandarin and jasmine with light patchouli to create a contemporary expression of “I don’t play well with others” confidence, leaving you ready for whatever a genius, billionaire, playboy-philanthropist might encounter throughout their day.
Worthy Cologne, inspired by Thor, is a woody citrus cologne with a combination of bergamot, frozen ginger and wheatgrass blended with a hint of fresh natural grapefruit and layered with cypress, creating a deep dry masculine almost “God-like” musk.
SMASH!, inspired by Hulk, is a clean scent with clear top notes of water lily and nutmeg, which carries on an intense woody dry down, enriched with Indian sandalwood, dry musk and warm cedar. Complementary to full range emotions, it wears well at work, in the lab, or an evening out on the town.

Three other scents are available outside of the Avenger Cologne Pack: Black Widow Perfume, Infinity Formula Cologne and Mischief Cologne.

Black Widow Perfume – Russian spy, trained assassin, world-class ballerina, girl from legal department. This perfume has a clear shot of citrus slowly giving way to sensual caramel and honey. The scent dries down with a blend of bitter chocolate, clear patchouli and praline.
Infinity Formula Cologne – Inspired by Nick Fury, CIC of S.H.I.E.L.D., this cologne is a seductive fragrance for not just any man, but only for those who will risk everything to keep the dream of freedom alive. And sure, you could describe it as a citron cocktail smoothed over with a couple of stiff shots of tonka bean and guaiac wood, or you could just put it on and know it makes you smell good.
Mischief Cologne – Inspired by Thor’s bad brother, Loki, this unisex fragrance combines a base of green tea and amber with bergamot and cardamom in a dangerous-sexy, yet playful way that wears well on anyone, day or night.

More information including where these fragrances can be pre-ordered is available via http://www.jadsinternational.com. Retailers are still being determined and are welcome to visit JADS, who will be sampling the colognes and perfume at booth #4712 at the International Toy Fair. To arrange for a media demonstration or to request additional information, please contact info@jadsinternational.com. Images of the products and packages are available upon request.

Michelle Obama Celebrates Let’s Move! and Disney Magic of Healthy Living at Disney World

Posted: 12 Feb 2012 06:00 AM PST

On a tour to celebrate the second anniversary of her Let's Move! initiative, First Lady Michelle Obama spoke to hundreds of children and parents at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex about the importance of healthy living. She also recognized the efforts of Disney Magic of Healthy Living, which partners with parents in their quest to raise healthy, happy kids.

"I want to thank Disney for all that they've done to support "Let's Move" and to make sure our kids are eating right and being active," Obama told the audience before joining Disney Channel and Disney XD stars for the new dance, "The Platypus Walk," inspired by the hugely popular "Phineas and Ferb" character Perry the Platypus.

U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson welcomed the crowd of nearly 1,500 children and families, demonstrating his own commitment to physical fitness by completing 50 push-ups on stage.

After addressing the audience, Obama welcomed the children to visit five Disney Magic of Healthy Living activity stations along with Disney Channel Stars Debby Ryan ("Jessie"), Roshon Fegan ("Shake It Up"), and Disney XD stars Doc Shaw and Kelsey Chow ("Pair of Kings") and Olivia Holt ("Kickin' It"). There, professional athletes helped children hone their physical fitness skills. Children ran sprints with renowned football coach Tom Shaw, completed drills with members of the Orlando City Soccer team and practiced their tennis serve with tennis professional James Blake.

Brandon Delfosse, a 13-year-old student at Orlando Science School and member of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Florida, attended the event and was pleased Obama and Disney supported healthy living. "It's very cool knowing someone cares about you… It's smart. Disney is popular, and it helps get the word out."

Disney Magic of Healthy Living provides children and families with engaging content, useful tools and unique experiences to help make healthier lifestyles simple and fun. The 2010 launch of Disney Magic of Healthy Living included a series of public service announcements featuring the first lady that inspire children to take control of their own health, fitness and nutrition, and encourage their families and friends to do the same.

For more information about the program, as well as recipes, tips and videos, visit Disney.com/TryIt and Family.com/TryIt.

Obama's Let's Move! initiative has made significant progress since launching in February 2010. Parents, businesses, educators, elected officials, members of the military, chefs, physicians, athletes, childcare providers, community and faith leaders and children themselves have made substantial commitments to improve the health of children. Through working together with Let's Move!, these groups have provided children with healthier food and greater opportunities for physical activity in schools and communities, helped get families the information they need to make healthier decisions, supported a healthy start in early childhood, and have worked to ensure more people have access to healthy, affordable food.

For details about the Let's Move! initiative, visit LetsMove.gov.

Show How You and Your Family Live Healthy and Win a Trip to Aulani (chipandco.com)
Phineas & Ferb ‘Platypus Day’ Celebration coming March 3rd (chipandco.com)

Fun Facts Thrive At 19th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

Posted: 11 Feb 2012 06:00 PM PST

The largest number of front-entrance topiaries ever, 1,000 brilliantly hued butterflies, 240 floating mini-gardens and 30 million blooms paint a landscape masterpiece at the 19^th annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival March 7-May 20 at Walt Disney World Resort.

Among this year's fun festival facts:

30 million blooms blanket the park throughout the festival, which runs 75 colorful days.
The festival's front-entrance Fantasia topiary scene comprises 28 topiaries - more than have been used in any front-entrance display. The 28 include Sorcerer Mickey, three ostriches, two hippos, two alligators, two elephants, nine stars, a spiral and eight mushrooms.
22,615 plant plugs of 15 plant varieties make up the Fantasia front-entrance topiary. They include reindeer moss for Sorcerer Mickey's face and red begonias for his hat; creeping fig for Mickey, hippos and gators; Sweet Ayssum, and three shades of Lobelia simulate water spilling over a large topiary rock made up of Black Scallop Ajuga upon which the Sorcerer stands.
4,000 Blushing Bride air plants from Guatemala color the two hippos' tutus and 300 Cotton Candy air plants from Peru feather the wings and tails of the three ostrich topiaries. Smaller air plants are used as ostrich slippers.
1,250 feet of quarter-inch irrigation tubing is woven into the Fantasia front-entrance topiaries.
Dozens of additional Disney character topiaries represent the largest collection of Disney character topiary in the world and include classic film stars like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Donald Duck, Goofy, Pluto, Cinderella and Tinker Bell.
At least 25 different plants, grasses and mosses of various colors, including pink and red begonias, dusty miller, palm fiber, palm seeds, ficus and lichen, are used to create and define features of additional festival topiaries. More color has been added to the topiaries than in any previous topiary presentation.
1,000 native butterflies represent up to 10 species at the expansive Bambi's Butterfly House. Among the garden's two dozen nectar plants are Cape Royal plumbago, passion flower, coral honeysuckle, blazing star, butterfly bush, scarlet milkweed and canna lily.
More than 500,000 plants, trees and shrubs are planted for the festival; 250,000 of those are annual blossoms installed for the festival.
Festival plants include 60 different species of trees, 47 types of palms, and 48 varieties of bedding plants.
150 hands-on gardening demonstrations and seminars will be presented.
Thirty "flower towers" of impatiens line Innoventions Plaza.
240 floating mini-gardens, each three feet in diameter, of multi-hued impatiens provide splashes of color on two ponds that border the walkway between Future World and World Showcase.
700 container gardens of flowers, herbs, plants and vegetables in clay pots, barrels and urns enhance the landscape throughout Epcot.
400 Walt Disney World horticulturists are needed to install the festival landscape, topiaries and many exhibits; 100 Epcot horticulturists maintain topiaries and other festival displays.
It takes more than one full year and about 24,000 cast member hours to prepare for the annual festival.
The festival's weekend Flower Power concert series includes 11 artists and groups known for more than 100 Top 40 hits. This year's musical hit-makers from the 1960s and '70s include Jose Feliciano, Starship starring Mickey Thomas, The Guess Who, The Spinners, Chubby Checker & The Wildcats, Paul Revere & The Raiders, The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie, Chuck Negron formerly of Three Dog Night (NEW!), The Orchestra starring former members of ELO (NEW!), Herman's Hermits Starring Peter Noone and Davy Jones.

Guest information for the 19thannual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is available at www.disneyworld.com/flower or at 407/W-DISNEY.

Coming Soon! Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival March 7-May 20 (chipandco.com)
19th Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival Coming March 7 – May 20, 2012 (chipandco.com)

Win a Vacation of a Lifetime to Aulani Disney Resort & Spa in “John Carter: Journey to Aulani Sweepstakes”

Posted: 11 Feb 2012 04:00 PM PST

To celebrate the release of Disney's John Carter, Disney.com is offering guests a chance to discover paradise at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in the "John Carter: Journey to Aulani Sweepstakes."

Inspired by John Carter's exploration of an amazing new world, the grand prize winner can wake up a world away in Hawai'i with a four night stay at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, as well as roundtrip airfare and a $500 room credit.

Guests can enter the sweepstakes once per day at Disney.com/JohnCarterSweeps or by texting "JOURNEY" to "347639" ("DISNEY"). The sweepstakes closes on March 23, 2012. Please click here for official rules. For more information about the movie, visit Disney.com/JohnCarter.

Are You the Real John Carter? (chipandco.com)
Buy 4 Nights, Get 1 Free @ Aulani! (chipandco.com)

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Phineas & Ferb ‘Platypus Day’ Celebration coming March 3rd

Posted: 11 Feb 2012 02:00 PM PST

Mark your calendars and be prepared to take over the Tri State area!

Disney’s hugely popular duck-billed, beaver-tailed, teal-colored character Perry the Platypus, as seen on “Phineas and Ferb,” the #1 animated series for kids and tweens, will be the main attraction on Platypus Day, SATURDAY, MARCH 3. The celebration includes the introduction of “The Platypus Walk,” a catchy spy-surf-rock song and dance designed to encourage fun physical activity as part of Disney’s commitment to inspire kids and families to lead active lifestyles.

The day also includes 11 hours of “Phineas and Ferb” programming including two new Perry-focused episodes on Disney Channel and Disney XD, an interactive website dedicated to Perry the Platypus, a fun giveaway and special Platypus Takeover at all Disney Stores in the U.S. & Canada and events via local Radio Disney stations across the nation.

“The Platypus Walk” song will debut today, Wednesday, February 8, when Dan Povenmire and Jeff “Swampy” Marsh (creators/executive producers, “Phineas and Ferb”) join Radio Disney’s Ernie D on air (4:00-5:00 p.m., PT) as Dr. Doofenshmirtz and Major Monogram. Also beginning today, viewers can visit www.DisneyChannel.com/PlatypusDay to learn the steps to “The Platypus Walk” dance. Dr. Doofenshmirtz and Major Monogram will also co-host the Top 30 Countdown on Saturday, March 3 and Sunday, March 4.

“The Platypus Walk” music video debuts Saturday, March 3 on Disney Channel and Disney XD. The dance, choreographed by Rosero McCoy (“Shake It Up” and “Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam”), will be demonstrated by Friends of Perry (FOP) and fan favorites: Bridgit Mendler, Bradley Steven Perry, Jason Dolley, Mia Talerico, Leigh-Allyn Baker and Eric Allan Kramer (“Good Luck Charlie”), Bella Thorne and Zendaya, Davis Cleveland, Roshon Fegan, Adam Irigoyen, Kenton Duty and Caroline Sunshine (“Shake It Up”), Debby Ryan, Kevin Chamberlin, Skai Jackson, Karan Brar, Cameron Boyce and Peyton List (“Jessie”), Billy Unger, Kelli Berglund, Spencer Boldman and Tyrel Jackson Williams (“Lab Rats”), Jason Earles, Leo Howard, Mateo Arias, Dylan Riley Snyder, Olivia Holt and Alex Christian Jones (“Kickin’ It”), and Ross Lynch, Laura Marano, Raini Rodriguez and Calum Worthy (“Austin & Ally”).

All Friends of Perry (FOP) are invited to visit www.DisneyChannel.com/PlatypusDay to learn the dance moves from Rosero McCoy, download a printable certificate and iron on decal, play Perry games and become a fan of Agent P.

In anticipation of Perry’s big day, the weekend celebration begins with a new Perry-centric “Phineas and Ferb” episode, “Mom’s in the House,” on Friday, March 2 (8:00 p.m. ET/PT) followed by an 11-hour marathon, Saturday, March 39:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m., ET/PT) on Disney Channel. Disney XD’s 12-hour “Phineas and Ferb” marathon begins with the premiere of another new episode, “Perry the Actorpus,” on Saturday, March 3 (8:00 a.m., ET/PT).

Disney Renews ‘Phineas and Ferb’ For a Fourth Season (chipandco.com)
Phineas and Ferb’s Rockin’ Rollin’ Dance Party: Holiday Edition, at Disney California Adventure Park (chipandco.com)

Woman Arrested for Selling Bad Tickets to Walt Disney World, Universal, and Sea World

Posted: 11 Feb 2012 12:00 PM PST

For the third time in a year, Elena Tarano was arrested for selling thousands of dollars worth used tickets to theme parks in the Orlando area. She had apparently developed a booming business out of a booth that was located on International Drive.

Officials are unable to actually shut down these ticket locations because the booths themselves are not illegal just the act of selling the tickets, which is a misdemeanor.

This is just another example of if it sounds too good to be true it probably is. While getting a good deal on your tickets is nice, make sure you are using a reputable agency.

Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels to Reward A+ Teachers Free Vacation in 4th Annual Contest

2012-02-11T12:04:00.001-08:00

Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels to Reward A+ Teachers Free Vacation in 4th Annual Contest

Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels to Reward A+ Teachers Free Vacation in 4th Annual Contest
Disney Junior Orders New Episodes of “Minnie’s Bow-toons”
‘America’s Funniest Home Videos’ Visits Aulani Resort and Spa
Marvel Unveils New Video: Avengers vs X-Men Battle Center Episode 1
Annual Passholder Preview at the Disneyland Resort
Meyer Werft Delivers Completed Disney Fantasy in Official Ceremony
Top 3 Snacks at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels to Reward A+ Teachers Free Vacation in 4th Annual Contest

Posted: 11 Feb 2012 10:00 AM PST

The Downtown Disney® Resort Area Hotels has partnered with Walt Disney World® to once again honor outstanding K-12 teachers with its 2012 A+ For Teachers at Downtown Disney essay contest.

The fourth annual contest, which kicks off today and runs through April 13, 2012, asks students in grades 1 through 12 to nominate their favorite teacher by writing a brief essay of no more than 300 words and submitting it via www.downtowndisneyhotels.com . The essay should explain how the teacher has made a difference in the student’s life and will be judged on its relevance to theme, creativity, originality, and the merit of the teacher’s accomplishments as outlined in the essay.

Seven winners will be chosen, and those students and their favorite teacher nominees each will win a vacation prize package that consists of:

Five-day / four-night accommodations (for up to four family members) at one of the Downtown Disney® Resort Area Hotels
Four free Walt Disney World® one-day, one-park passes
Four free tickets to the DisneyQuest® Indoor Interactive theme park
Complimentary breakfast at the hotel each day (for up to four family members)
One $100 gas card

“We’re excited to kick off our fourth annual contest to celebrate those teachers who truly make a difference in the lives of their students in spite of the many challenges their schools are facing,” said Kevin Renzi, chairperson of the organization’s marketing committee. “We’ve been amazed by the stories we’ve received in prior years, so we look forward to selecting even more gifted teachers for the recognition they deserve.”

Downtown Disney® Resort Area Hotels has awarded 60 vacation trips to deserving teachers and their students since starting the annual essay contest in 2009. Prior winners have been recognized for home schooling students struggling with challenging illnesses, persevering in their teaching careers despite life-threatening medical conditions, supporting the work of non-profit organizations, helping their students excel academically, inspiring learning in the classroom, and other professional and personal feats.

This year’s A+ For Teachers at Downtown Disney contest winners will be notified directly by May 1, 2012 and also announced on the hotels’ website and Facebook page.

Downtown Disney: Our Favorite Downtown Disney Stores (aglassslippervacation.com)
Earl of Sandwich Opening at Disneyland Resort’s Downtown Disney This Summer (jedimouseketeer.blogspot.com)

Disney Junior Orders New Episodes of “Minnie’s Bow-toons”

Posted: 11 Feb 2012 08:00 AM PST

Disney Junior has ordered 10 additional episodes of the popular short-form series “Minnie’s Bow-Toons” starring Minnie Mouse and her pal Daisy as they run Minnie’s Bow-Tique, a specialty shop stocked only with colorful bows and bowties.

Disney Junior will celebrate Valentine’s Day with a marathon of Minnie Mouse-themed episodes of “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse” and “Minnie’s Bow-Toons” on TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14 (9:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m., ET/PT), including the new episode, “Fashion Emergency” (9:55 a.m., ET/PT), where Minnie showcases her passion for fashion with a pet runway show.

Starting today,DisneyJunior.com/Valentine will launch a Valentine’s Day greeting card maker where fans can create a sweetheart-themed card to be printed out and given to friends and family. In addition, fans will be able to send and receive online cards from their favorite Disney Junior characters including Minnie Mouse, Mickey Mouse, Jake from “Jake and the Never Land Pirates,” Special Agent Oso, Handy Manny and the Little Einsteins. The site also features Valentine’s Day-themed crafts that kids and their parents/caregivers can do at home.

On February 7, The Walt Disney Studios released “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: I Minnie,” a DVD and digital copy compilation of five fun-filled episodes centering on Minnie, including the never-before-seen episode “Minnie and Daisy’s Flower Shower.” In addition, a bundle of 13 Minnie Mouse-themed episodes of “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse” will be available on iTunes the same day.

One of the most beloved characters in the world, Minnie Mouse is seen alongside her #1 guy, Mickey Mouse, at Disney Theme Parks worldwide and is featured in the popular Disney Junior Live On Stage Show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s California Adventure.

“Minnie’s Bow-Toons” and “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse” are productions of Disney Television Animation. The series carry a TV-Y parental guideline.

Disney Junior reflects the emotional connection generations of consumers have to Disney storytelling and Disney characters, both classic and contemporary. It invites mom and dad to join their child in the Disney experience of magical, musical and heartfelt stories and characters, while incorporating specific learning and development themes designed for kids age 2-7. Disney Junior's animated and live action series blend Disney's unparalleled storytelling and characters kids love deeply with learning, including early math, language skills, healthy eating and lifestyles, and social skills. Disney Junior launched in February 2011 with a daily programming block on Disney Channel. In its first year, Disney Junior posted the network’s biggest yearly audience in the daypartin Total Viewers, Kids 2-5, Boys 2-5, Girls 2-5 and Women 18-49 and increased by double-digit margins among preschooler demographics over year-ago levels. On March 23, 2012 Disney Junior will add a basic cable and satellite channel in the U.S.

DVD Review: MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE: I ♥ MINNIE (chipandco.com)
MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE: I ♥ MINNIE Coming to DVD (chipandco.com)

‘America’s Funniest Home Videos’ Visits Aulani Resort and Spa

Posted: 11 Feb 2012 06:00 AM PST

The fun of "America's Funniest Home Videos" met the fun of Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, recently when AFV went on location at the Hawai`i resort.

AFV host Tom Bergeron took time during the shoot to slide down Tubestone Curl into Waikolohe Stream …

…and to join the dancers of the "Starlit Hui."

Looks like he had a great time! Aulani will be featured in two upcoming episodes of AFV, airing May 6 and May 13 at 7 p.m./6 p.m. Central.

Win a Vacation of a Lifetime to Aulani Disney Resort & Spa in “John Carter: Journey to Aulani Sweepstakes” (chipandco.com)
D23 Adds More New Discounts for Members (chipandco.com)

Marvel Unveils New Video: Avengers vs X-Men Battle Center Episode 1

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 08:00 PM PST

Every year, Marvel does a giant crossover event that shakes and rattles their ever growing Marvel universe. Some storylines completely changed the Marvel universe, like in the groundbreaking series ‘Civil War’, to the intense and exciting stories like ‘Planet Hulk’, ‘World War Hulk’, and ‘Secret Invasion’. Marvel knows exactly what their fans want, and gives it to them in spades. This year is no different, with the recent announcement that this year’s exciting crossover will be ‘Avengers vs X-Men’. The storyline will pit Marvel’s two largest super groups against each other for an all out battle that could change Marvel’s landscape forever. I can’t wait to get my hands on the first issue this April. But to tide us over, Marvel has released a new video to wet our appetites for the event. Hit the jump to check out the video and leave your comments below.

The video we were sent came along with this text:

Take your Avengers Vs. X-Men experience to the next level with AvX Battle Center! In this very special video presentation from Marvel.com, hosts Jesse “The Gentleman” Falcon and “Mean” Jeanine Schaefer offer their take on the key battles in the biggest super hero war of all-time! First up: Captain America Vs. Cyclops! Find out what strategies these team leaders must utilize and what they need to watch out for as the combat heats up!

Who has the edge when Earth’s Mightiest Heroes take on the Children of the Atom? Be sure to stay tuned to AvX Battle Center before you place your bets and then be sure to pick up Avengers Vs. X-Men starting with issue #0 on March 28 and then grab Avengers Vs. X-Men #1 – April 3rd!

Which team will reign supreme? Join the conversation on Twitter with #AvX!

For more on Avengers Vs X-Men, please visit http://avx.marvel.com

AVENGERS VS. X-MEN #1 (JAN120625)
Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS, JASON AARON, MATT FRACTION, JONATHAN HICKMAN, ED BRUBAKER
Art by JOHN ROMITA JR.
Colors by LAURA MARTIN
Cover by JIM CHEUNG
FOC – 2/27/12, ON SALE – 4/3/12

So there you have it. Check out the video and let me know what you think. Are you looking forward to this exciting new crossover from Marvel?

Marvel Announces AVENGERS VS X-MEN – The Biggest Comic Book Event In History Begins In April 2012 (chipandco.com)
Marvel to Debut Avengers Prelude Comics for Free (chipandco.com)
Disney XD to Begin Hosting New Marvel Universe Animated Block (chipandco.com)
Review: ‘Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes’ Volumes 3 and 4 (chipandco.com)

Annual Passholder Preview at the Disneyland Resort

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 06:00 PM PST

Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders: from March 27–29, take advantage of a special sneak peek of the amazing merchandise, food, entertainment, new costumes and guided tours the Disneyland Resort will bring to life this summer.

As part of this preview in Stage 17 at Disney California Adventure park, I'm excited to share that some of the merchandise being created for the park and the opening of Cars Land will be available to purchase, including items from collections such as the Disney California Adventure park logo program, Attraction Posters, Low & Slow Car Club, Champions Custom Speed Shop and Radiator Springs Racers, to name a few, before they hit store shelves at locations such as Ramone's House of Body Art, Sarge's Surplus Hut and more.

There's no need to sign up! The showcase will be open from 10-8 p.m. daily, March 27–29. Look for a glimpse at some of the merchandise in early March on www.ArtofDisneyParks.com.

Event subject to space, time and availability. Entrance to the showcase is not guaranteed. Please note, this is an Annual Passholder only event. A valid Disneyland Resort Annual Passholder ID must be presented by each guest entering the venue and must be presented at time of purchase. Limits and restrictions apply. Merchandise available while supplies last. Information subject to change or cancellation without notice, including but not limited to event dates, artwork, edition sizes and retails. Separate theme park admission may be required.

Disneyland Resort Makes $5 Million Donation to CHOC Children’s (chipandco.com)
Discover the Sights and Sounds of Disneyland Resort with ‘Disneyland Explorer’ for your iPad (chipandco.com)

Meyer Werft Delivers Completed Disney Fantasy in Official Ceremony

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 04:00 PM PST

>Disney Cruise Line took possession of its newest ship – Disney Fantasy – today from the Meyer Werft shipyard in a traditional maritime ceremony aboard the ship. The Meyer Werft flag was lowered, while the Disney Cruise Line flag was raised, transferring ownership from the shipbuilder to Disney.

This final milestone closes the book on the ship's construction journey and signals her readiness to welcome guests on her maiden voyage, set for March 31, 2012, from Port Canaveral, Florida. The Disney Fantasy is the second of two newly designed Disney ships that take the family cruise experience to new heights and features many of the innovations found on her sister ship, Disney Dream.

"Today we celebrate the culmination of a wonderful partnership, as we take possession of the Disney Fantasy and prepare for the journey home to Florida. This ship is the result of the superb craftsmanship from the master shipbuilders at Meyer Werft and the innovation, imagination and ingenuity of the Disney team, who have partnered together so beautifully to bring this ship to life," said Karl Holz, president of Disney Cruise Line. "We are eagerly anticipating our guests, who will experience storytelling in enchanting new ways onboard the Disney Fantasy while making magical memories that will last a lifetime."

Known for establishing the family cruise market when the business launched in 1998, Disney Cruise Line continues to build upon this success with a focus on the legacy and heritage of The Walt Disney Company's most known assets – master storytelling, world-class entertainment and legendary guest service.

"The Disney Fantasy, along with her sister ship, the Disney Dream, are the largest ships that Meyer Werft has ever built," said Bernard Meyer, managing partner of Meyer Werft. "Over the last five years we have developed an outstanding partnership working with Disney, and together, we have seen two magnificent ships become reality. The collaboration among Disney Cruise Line, Meyer Werft and its suppliers has been exemplary."

Meyer Werft and Disney first signed a contract to build two new ships in April of 2007. Shortly thereafter, planning for the design of the ships began and construction started on the Disney Dream, the first of the two new ships, with the first steel cutting on March 2, 2009. Since the recent completion of the ship's float out and conveyance on the River Ems, the test-and-adjust period has been in full swing. The ship will remain in Bremerhaven for another week while additional crew members board, and supplies and provisions are loaded. The Disney Fantasy is scheduled to depart on Feb. 16 for its transatlantic voyage to the U.S., with an expected arrival to its homeport in Port Canaveral, Florida on March 6.

Captain Tom Forberg will officially take the helm of the Disney Fantasy for Disney Cruise Line. As part of the Disney Cruise Line ship construction team, Captain Forberg has been with the company for more than 15 years and was responsible for launching Disney's first three ships, the Disney Dream, the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder.

Expanding Itineraries

With the addition of two new ships, Disney Cruise Line is able to expand its itineraries, adding new homeports and new destinations, bringing the Disney family cruise vacation to more guests than ever before.

The Disney Fantasy will sail seven-night alternating eastern and western Caribbean itineraries beginning in 2012, from Port Canaveral, Fla., where she will join sister ship, Disney Dream, sailing three-, four- and five-night cruises to the Bahamas. New in 2012, the Disney Magic will offer eight-night cruises to the Bahamas and five-night cruises up the New England coast sailing from New York, and seven-night western Caribbean itineraries departing from Galveston, Texas. The Disney Wonder will continue sailing seven-night Mexican Riviera cruises from the Port of Los Angeles, while spending its second summer sailing Alaskan itineraries from Seattle.

Based in Celebration, Fla., the Disney Cruise Line experience is focused on providing a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and kids can immerse themselves in worlds of fantasy only Disney can create. Most recently, the company was honored by the Themed Entertainment Association for the new "Animation Magic" show set to debut in Animator's Palate onboard the Disney Fantasy, while the Disney Dream received top honors as the "Best New Ship" by Cruise Critic.

Disney Fantasy Floats Out (chipandco.com)

Top 3 Snacks at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 02:00 PM PST

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is such a great Park. Great shows, great parade, great rides, great restaurants and yes… great snacks! For being a smaller park your sure do have so many options to choose from in the snack department! Here are my Top 3 Snacks at Disney’s Hollywood Studio.

#3. Old Fashioned Ice Cream Sundae. - This snack is just the way Mama made it! Old fashioned vanilla with hot fudge, whipped cream and a cherry on top! Just 1 snack credit or around $4.50. This sweet sundae is perfect to share on a hot Florida day!

#2. Butterfinger Cupcake at Starring Rolls Cafe. – The Chocolate Butterfinger Cupcake could be one of the most talked about snacks at Walt Disney World, aside from the Dole Whip at Magic Kingdom. People either seem to Love it or Hate it! But to me anything sweet and sticky and crunching gets a big LOVE IT in my book! Here we have a chocolate filled cupcake with vanilla buttercream icing dipped in a hard chocolate and rolled in crushed butterfingers! This snack is massive and super sweet! It is worth sharing with your family! My husband, daughter and I love to share one of these on our Hollywood Studios Day! Make sure to get a few extra napkins! Not going to Hollywood Studios, no worries! You can also find the butterfinger cupcake at Disney Quest in Downtown Disney!

#1. Carrot Cake Cookie at The Writer’s Stop. - Some people run to get on Toy Story Mania first thing when Disney’s Hollywood Studios Opens, I run to The Writers Stop to get myself a Carrot Cake Cookie! The Carrot Cake Cookie is simply amazing. 2 soft and very moist carrot cake cookies are joined by the largest amount of Cream Cheese frosting you could imagine to create a snack that literally melts in your mouth! Pair it with one of the Writers Stop’s amazing coffees, or in my case a Diet Coke, and you have the best breakfast/snack on Walt Disney World property! The Carrot Cake Cookie is a snack on the Disney Dining Plan, so if you are participating it will cost you nothing out of pocket! This snack is certainly big enough to share, but I never do! Some things are better all to yourself!

If you are hitting up Hollywood Studios, be sure not the miss these Top Treats! Did your favs make the list, let me know in the comments below.

Table Service in the Parks vs the Resorts – Which is Better? Part 1 (chipandco.com)
Snack of the Week – Carrot Cake Cookie Revisited (delightfullydisney.com)

2012-02-11T11:37:00.001-08:00

Titanic the Experience: Contest for Jack and Rose lookalikes

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 11:55 AM PST

Titanic the Experience, the International Drive attraction devoted to the tragedy at sea 100 years ago, is having a lookalike contest for Jack and Rose, the lead characters in the 1997 film “Titanic.”

Winners of Sunday’s contest at the attraction will win tickets to Tuesday’s VIP screening of the 3-D version of the film, which will open in theaters on April 4. Jack and Rose were played by Leonardo DiCarpio and Kate Winslet in the film, which won 11 Academy Awards.

Contestants, who will compete for “best dressed,” should arrive and register at Titanic the Experience attraction at 10:30 a.m. on Feb. 12. The contest begins at 11:30 a.m. The attraction’s address is 7324 International Drive, Orlando.

Star sighting: Choo-Choo Soul at Discovery Cove

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 11:26 AM PST

Genevieve Goings and Constantine Abramson (also known as DC Beatbox), members of the children’s entertainment group Choo-Choo Soul with Genevieve, checked out Discovery Cove while in town for SeaWorld Orlando’s Just for Kids festival. They swam with dolphins, snorkeled among fish and rays, fed tropical birds and relaxed on the resort’s beaches. (Photo from Discovery Cove).

Yes, I am this easily amused: This week both Choo-Choo and Booboo have visited SeaWorld parks.

Beach Blog

2012-02-10T23:17:00.001-08:00

Beach Blog

Weekend outlook: choppy surf, cool weather, fewer man-o-wars

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 11:34 AM PST

This week’s cooler, overcast weather hasn’t been the best beach weather.

This weekend promises more of the same and the surf will kick up throughout the weekend, said Volusia County Beach Patrol Capt. Tammy Marris.

Today’s surf is about 2 to 3 feet, 3 to 4 feet in some areas, but a west wind is expected, and will kick up the surf, possibly rough enough for red-flag warnings, she said.

Beachgoers should note that the higher surf conditions may lead to temporary closures to beach driving at narrower beach areas during high tide. Saturday’s high tide is expected at 10:30 a.m., so some disruptions in the morning.

Man-o-wars started washing up on the beach last week, but they are starting to subside, Marris said. The beach patrol is still flying purple flags as a warning that people could get stung. Luckily, with the Atlantic Ocean temperature at 65 degrees, there are few people venturing into the water and few stings to report, she said. The few surfers in the water are, of course, wearing wet suits this time of the year.

Sup

2012-02-10T17:28:00.001-08:00

Sup

Special garlic menu at D’Angelo Trattoria in Delray Beach

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 04:00 AM PST

D'Angelo Trattoria in Delray Beach helps celebrate the city's annual garlic festival this weekend with a special menu of garlic-inspired dishes tonight through Sunday.

Angelo Elia and executive chef Rickie Piper will be serving: grilled branzini with American broccoli and roasted garlic served with a white wine sauce; Scottadito rack of lamb with sweet garlic mashed potatoes and a garlic-rosemary Amarone sauce; and pizza roasted garlic, clams, Bufala mozzarella with chopped arugula.

All of the restaurants regular Roman menu items will be offered including: roasted veal bone marrow served with casareccio bread, parsley and caper pesto; bucatini de cecco with wild boar ragout and shaved-aged ricotta; and oven roasted milk-fed piglet marinated with fresh herbs, juniper berries and black pepper.

D'Angelo Trattoria, 9 SE 7th Ave., Delray Beach, 561-330-1237.

Love is in the air at Disney World for Lovebirds on Valentine’s Day

2012-02-10T12:12:00.001-08:00

Chip and Company

Love is in the air at Disney World for Lovebirds on Valentine’s Day

Love is in the air at Disney World for Lovebirds on Valentine’s Day
Enter Disney Family.com’s “I Heart My Family” Photo Upload Contest for a Chance to Win $500!
Table Service in the Parks vs at the Resorts – Which is Better? Part 2
Eating Healthy at WDW – Lunch Time
Coming to ABC Family Bunheads
Disney Close to Acquiring Script for ‘Saving Mr. Banks’
In the Disney Kitchen – Honey Coriander Wings from Ohana
New Kids Menu Items Starting Feb. 15 in Magic Kingdom Park
Michelle Obama to Visit ESPN Wide World of Sports

Love is in the air at Disney World for Lovebirds on Valentine’s Day

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 12:00 PM PST

The storybook setting and amorous ambiance of Walt Disney World Resort has lovebirds flocking to the Vacation Kingdom for a romantic getaway. Moonlit strolls, luxurious spas and intimate dining make it feel like Valentine's Day every day.

With a romantic overlay for Valentine's month, a new segment of the "The Magic, The Memories, and You!" projection show on Cinderella Castle runs through Feb. 15. Some of the most romantic moments in Disney animation inspire the special show as the iconic castle in Magic Kingdom is covered in red roses for one sequence and turned into a beautiful, star-filled sky for another. During part of the show, spectacular stained-glass windows grace the façades, depicting the stories of Cinderella, Snow White and Belle. "The Magic, The Memories, and You!" is a part of Disney's "Let the Memories Begin" in 2012.

But couples who've been bitten by the love bug don't need a fairy godmother to find romance at Walt Disney World Resort. This is, after all, home to some of the world's most famous romances: Cinderella and Prince Charming, Lady and the Tramp, Beauty and the Beast – and don't forget America's sweethearts, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.

Throughout the 40-square-mile playground, love is in the air at the Vacation Kingdom. During a couples spa experience. In the middle of a romantic dinner. Or on one of the "love boats" that cruise Walt Disney World waterways.

Honeymooners thrive in the romantic allure of Walt Disney World Resort – a top-rated honeymoon destination, according to industry experts. And for couples who want to make their own fairy tale dream come true – complete with Cinderella's coach and her famous glass slipper – Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings can create an unforgettable union.

The four Walt Disney World theme parks create a perfect setting for spontaneous romance – whether it's a stroll along the lush Maharajah Jungle Trek at Disney's Animal Kingdom or a relaxing stop for espresso and pastries at a sidewalk table in the France pavilion at Epcot World Showcase. Beyond the parks, couples can embrace a bouquet of romantic experiences that seem designed just for them:

The Couple that 'Spas' and 'Flies' Together….. - What's more enjoyable than a luxurious spa treatment? Imagine sharing it with that special someone. The Spa at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, features a "couples room" where guests can enjoy specialized spa treatments – such as massages and facials – with the one they love. For information about spa treatments, call 407/827-4455

Make like Aladdin and Jasmine – fly through the sky with your loved one on an adventurous tandem parasail over Bay Lake. Those looking to soar to new heightscan spend 10 minutes alone soaring high above Disney and get a bird's-eye view of Magic Kingdom and its neighboring resorts. Contact Sammy Duvall's Watersports Centre at Disney's Contemporary Resort, or call 407/939-0754 for reservations for a tandem flight.

Magical Resorts – From the romance of an African lodge to the Victorian splendor of Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the mood is set for an enchanting stay at a Walt Disney World resort hotel. Disney's fantasy hotels transport couples to faraway places with lavish theming, picturesque views and superior service. For reservations, call 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639).

The Love Boat - The Grand Floridian's Grand 1 – an elegant 52-foot yacht – can give couples, or parties up to 18, a stunning view of "Wishes" fireworks showering above Magic Kingdom during select evening cruises along Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. Private butler service and gourmet meals also are available. Romantic evening cruises include a captain and private deck hand. Reservations may be made up to 90 days in advance by calling 407/824-2682. At Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Marina, a 1920s-style 26-foot mahogany runabout is available for private rental. Half-hour afternoon cruises are available for up to six people. Up to six guests can take a Fireworks Cruise into Epcot (45-50 minutes) for an exhilarating, one-of-a-kind view of "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth." The craft – complete with captain – travels across Crescent Lake for the nightly fireworks, sound and laser show. Reservations may be made up to 90 days in advance by calling 407/WDW-PLAY (939-7529).The name of the boat is perfect for couples in love: Breathless II.

Disney Dining Serves Romance - Couples find Disney dining infused with romance in settings ranging from subdued to spectacular.

California Grill atop Disney's Contemporary Resort offers a panoramic view overlooking the Magic Kingdom theme park. Here, stellar cuisine and the restaurant's award-winning selection of California wines set the stage. Lovebirds can catch a Florida sunset over Magic Kingdom.
One of the most romantic dinner spots at Walt Disney World Resort is a table for two at Victoria & Albert's at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The elegant restaurant has been honored with the Five-Diamond Award from AAA for its gourmet cuisine. Combining Royal Doulton china, Cristofle silver and personalized menus, Victoria & Albert's is the "crown jewel" of the Grand Floridian's dining destinations. Soft harp music fills the air as "maids" and "butlers" provide stellar service to each of the tables in the intimate dining room. Ladies also receive a long-stemmed red rose.
For the ultimate romantic experience, an evening at the Chef's Table is unsurpassed. Couples are seated at a cozy table in Victoria & Albert's kitchen and treated to a culinary feast custom tailored to their specific tastes by Chef Scott Hunnel.
Guests who prefer to dine in an even more intimate setting at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa need only to pick up the closest telephone. The Grand Floridian can arrange a private dinner for two, served against the elegant backdrop of the Grand Floridian beach – or aboard the Grand 1 – on a sunset excursion along Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. Certain menu items can be specially prepared for the evening. Seven-day notice is requested.
For all Walt Disney World dining information, guests can call 407/WDW-DINE (939-3463).

Nature Lovers - A horseback ride through one of the backwoods trails at Walt Disney World Resort is just the thing for couples who share a love of nature and each other. Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground offers wrangler-led tours (45 minutes) through the deep, pine-scented woods that make up part of the Vacation Kingdom's 40 square miles. Tours leave several times daily from Trail Blaze Corral, and may be reserved by calling 407/WDW-PLAY (939-7529).

Romantic Evening - Horse-drawn carriage rides through the wilderness of Walt Disney World Resort are a romantic treat for couples looking for a secluded nighttime outing. The antique carriages depart from Pioneer Hall at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground and traverse throughout the scenic landscape of the 750-acre rustic resort. Or guests can choose a relaxing old-fashioned carriage ride through Disney's Port Orleans Resort-Riverside with pickup at Boatwright's Dining Hall. Each nightly excursion is 25 minutes long. For reservations, guests can call 407/WDW-PLAY (939-7529).

Weddings Around the 'World' - The epitome of Disney romance can be summed up in four words: Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings. Since the first wedding at Disney's Wedding Pavilion in 1995, approximately 1,600 couples each year have exchanged vows at Walt Disney World Resort.

For these couples, dreams become reality. Where else but at Disney could a bride arrive for her wedding in Cinderella's glass coach, have a handsome major domo carry wedding rings to the altar in a glass slipper, or have Mickey and Minnie greet guests at the reception?

Whether it's an elegant ball at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, a traditional ceremony at Disney's Wedding Pavilion or a beach-themed wedding complete with tiki torches, leis and luau on one of the Walt Disney World white-sand beaches, Disney custom designs each wedding with the famous "Disney Difference" – providing attention to the tiniest detail.

Disney's wedding specialists incorporate all the elements in a one-stop shop including the ceremony, entertainment, cuisine, floral arrangements, audiovisuals and accommodations. For more information on Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings, call 321/939-4623 or visit disneyweddings.com.

Couples who are tying the knot back home can arrange a Disney's Fairy Tale Honeymoon by calling 321/939-4623 or visiting the website at disneyhoneymoons.com.  

Renewing Vows - Many couples who've been married for years are coming to Walt Disney World Resort, often with their families, to renew their vows five, 10, 25 and 50 years later. A Disney vacation provides the perfect backdrop to celebrate this family milestone. Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings experts can tailor the ceremony and celebration to suit each couple.

Table Service in the Parks vs the Resorts – Which is Better? Part 1 (chipandco.com)
Top Five Walt Disney World Resort News Stories in 2011 (chipandco.com)

Enter Disney Family.com’s “I Heart My Family” Photo Upload Contest for a Chance to Win $500!

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 11:00 AM PST

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, Disney Family.com and Welch's are asking guests to show how much they love their family in the "I Heart My Family" photo contest. Guests are encouraged to upload their favorite family snapshot and explain why the photo holds a special place in their heart.

Ten lucky winners will each receive a $500 gift card prize to spend on whatever their heart's desire. After entering their favorite family photo, guests can check out "Meals in Mayhem," a new web series with helpful tricks and recipes to help moms keep the daily household mayhem at bay.

Table Service in the Parks vs at the Resorts – Which is Better? Part 2

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 10:00 AM PST

There are many variables that affect whether table service meals are better in the parks or the resorts. Last time I looked at specialty dining such as character meals, signature dining, buffets, and unique and entertaining restaurants. Today, let's evaluate table service meals by looking at the convenience factor and the time of day you'll be eating, shall we?

Convenience

Transportation. Walt Disney World's most common form of transportation, buses, connects resorts to theme parks, water parks, Downtown Disney, and the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) only, making travel between resorts time-consuming. If you're staying at a Value Resort without a table-service option, chances are it is more convenient to eat at the theme parks while touring that to travel to another resort to eat. Guests staying at a monorail resort (Grand Floridian Resort, Polynesian Resort, and Contemporary Resort) or one of the Boardwalk area resorts (Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts, Boardwalk Inn, Yacht Club and Beach Club resorts) have a wide variety of table service restaurants that are relatively easy to travel to. Other Deluxe and Moderate Resorts have at least one table-service restaurant on-site but you'll likely not want to eat at the same restaurant day after day.

Flexibility. Generally, it's more difficult to get an Advance Dining Reservation (ADR) at a theme park restaurant than at a resort restaurant; it's a numbers game, really. There are exceptions to this rule, of course, but if you're not one to embrace planning your dining months in advance, eating at the resorts may be a better bet for you. You won't have to worry about fitting your touring plan around your ADR times. Once you finish up for the day, you'll be able to hop on a bus, monorail, or boat and have a better chance of getting a table at a resort restaurant without an ADR than in the parks.

Touring Plan. If your touring plan has you at the parks both before and after your meal without a rest period in between, it's more convenient make an ADR at a theme park restaurant rather than exiting the theme parks and traveling to a resort to eat. Some exceptions would be eating at one of the monorail resorts if you're touring the Magic Kingdom or eating at one of the Boardwalk resorts during a day at Epcot or Disney's Hollywood Studios. The proximity of some resorts to these theme parks make it pretty quick to leave to eat and return to the park after dining.

Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner?

Breakfast. Rule #1 for my family when creating our Walt Disney World touring plan is to be at the theme park when it opens. We simply see more attractions with less wait. By the time the parks fill-up midday, we're ready to take a break and head back to our resort. With that in mind, the only time I think eating a table-service meal for breakfast in the parks wins over eating at the resort is if you have an ADR prior to the park opening. You'll experience a sight few rarely do – a nearly empty theme park – and you'll have the opportunity to get those coveted photographs without strangers crowding the shot. By the time you're finished with breakfast, the park is opening and you won't miss out on a thing!

Lunch and Dinner. Whether eating at a table-service restaurant in the park is better than at a resort for lunch and dinner primarily depends on convenience. If you're planning to be in the parks during a particular time of day, it probably makes sense to have your table service meal at that location to maximize your time enjoying the attractions.

In my experience, it's usually easier to get an ADR at a popular theme park restaurant during lunch, when many people grab quick-service, than dinner. So if you have your heart set on a particular restaurant and cannot get that dinner reservation, try lunch.

If you're paying out of pocket and wondering if you should splurge on a special restaurant, either at the resorts or the parks, lunch is an option to consider. The menu is usually more affordable for your midday meal than in the evening.

Whether eating in the theme parks or the resorts for your table service meal really is a personal opinion but there are some advantages of one over the other for specialty dining, convenience, and meal.

Eating Table Service in the Parks vs the Resorts – Which is Better? Part 1 (chipandco.com)
Best Disney Dining Plan Restaurants For Kids (onlywdworld.com)

Eating Healthy at WDW – Lunch Time

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 08:00 AM PST

Eating healthy at Walt Disney World isn’t always easy.

Often, salads and wraps are pre-made and coated in salad dressing, while the other standard options simply include different varieties of hamburgers. There are a couple of fantastic options for the health conscious and my personal favorite is Sunshine Seasons.

Image via Wikipedia

Located in The Land Pavilion in Epcot’s Future World – West, Sunshine Seasons has more variety than any other counter service I’ve experienced. With an Asian foods area, Soup and Salad area, Sandwiches, “From the Grill,” and even an “on the go” section if you’re in a big hurry, this is also great stop for large crowds of picky eaters. At the grill stop, the options include rotisserie chicken, grilled fish, and roasted pork chop. The Asian selection includes Mongolian Beef, Tofu and Vegetable Noodle Bowl, and more. The soup and salad offers a variety of freshly made soups including black bean and vegetable and also a variety of salads – my personal favorite is the beet and goat cheese salad. They make them directly in front of you, allowing you to choose dressing on the side or to leave items out. Sandwiches options include vegetable flat bread and Reuben sandwiches.

As a health conscious eater, I loved the fresh roasted beets and goat cheese salad and enjoyed it with a delicious black bean soup. Even in the heat of Florida sun, sometimes a good bowl of soup can be very welcomed. For me, one problem with Sunshine Seasons is that there are almost too many options it can be hard to decide! And, with so many other excellent options located in the World Showcase, I personally wish a restaurant with so many fantastic options was also located in another park!

As for Future World and park Counter Service, Sunshine Seasons is not to be overlooked! It’s also a great place to relax while you’re waiting to use your Soarin’ Fast Passes!

Making Good Decisions at the World (disneybabiesblog.com)
Spring Break At WDW – How to Deal With the Crowds (chipandco.com)

Coming to ABC Family Bunheads

Posted: 09 Feb 2012 07:00 PM PST

I had to check the date and make sure it wasn’t April 1st before I posted this news story.

ABC Family, the Millennial-skewing network, continues to expand its original programming slate, giving the greenlight to the new drama series "Bunheads" (working title), it was announced today by Michael Riley, president, ABC Family.

Executive-produced by Amy Sherman-Palladino ("Gilmore Girls") and headlined by Tony Award®-winning actor Sutton Foster, "Bunheads" is the tale of a Las Vegas showgirl who impulsively marries a man, moves to his sleepy coastal town, and takes an uneasy role at her new mother-in-law's dance school. "Bunheads" joins ABC Family's recently announced new original series, "Baby Daddy" and "Beverly Hills Nannies." All three series will begin production in Spring 2012.

Kate Juergens, executive vice president, Original Programming and Development, ABC Family added, “Amy and I had a great collaboration on ‘Gilmore Girls,’ which continues to find new fans here on ABC Family, and I look forward to this new partnership being just as successful. Her vision for ‘Bunheads’ aligns beautifully with our brand and is a wonderful addition to ABC Family’s original programming slate. I know our Millennial audience is going to fall in love with Sutton Foster the same way Broadway has."

ABC Family Orders Baby Daddy, Beverly Hills Nannies and Greenlights 5th Season of The Secret Life Of The American Teenager (chipandco.com)
Official ABC Family’s Jane by Design Opening (chipandco.com)

Disney Close to Acquiring Script for ‘Saving Mr. Banks’

Posted: 09 Feb 2012 05:00 PM PST

Deadline.com is reporting that Disney is close to a deal to acquire the script for Saving Mr. Banks. The script centers on the story of how Walt Disney convinced author P.L. Travers to sell him the rights to a little film you may have heard of, Mary Poppins.

Disney's courtship of Travers took nearly 14 years. According to Deadline "Mary Poppins was highly personal, and reflected hardships in her own life and her relationship with her father, who died when she was 7." She finally gave in but reportedly hated the film, especially the animated sequences, and refused to sell any more of her works to Disney.

It is rumored that Tom Hanks is considering playing the role of Walt Disney and Meryl Streep is considering playing Travers. I would personally love to see both of them involved. Mary Poppins is one of my favorite movies and I think it would be interesting to see how the film came to be.

We'll keep you updated. More information will come out once the deal is finalized.

Disney Characters Make the Rounds with a Special Dose of Magic at Florida Hospital for Children (chipandco.com)

In the Disney Kitchen – Honey Coriander Wings from Ohana

Posted: 09 Feb 2012 03:00 PM PST

I found this recipe over on The Disney Chick‘s website. I followed her recipe pretty closely except for a few ingredients changes and the fact that I decided to make this the week after Superbowl and therefore couldn’t find wings so I made it with drumsticks.

Ingredients2-5 lbs chicken wings and drums

Wing seasoning:
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon ground paprika
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Coriander wing sauce:
2/3 cup honey
1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 tablespoon chili powder
1/2 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1/2 tablespoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 500 degrees.2. Mix wing seasoning indredients in a small bowl.

3. Put the chicken and wing seasoning in a large bowl (original recipe only called for 2 tbsp of the seasoning but I used it all). Add enough oil to coat the chicken evenly and mix well. At this point I let my chicken marinade for about an hour but you can just continue if you are crunched for time.

4. Spread the seasoned chicken on prepared cookie sheet. Bake for 20 minutes or until fully cooked.

5. Mix all wing sauce ingredients in a large saute pan, and bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Stir until thickened.

6. Transfer the cooked wings into the sauce and serve… and voila! You are done!

Enjoying ‘Ohana Bread Pudding with Bananas Foster Sauce at Home (disneyfoodreport.com)

New Kids Menu Items Starting Feb. 15 in Magic Kingdom Park

Posted: 09 Feb 2012 01:00 PM PST

I know our little ones are content with mac 'n cheese or a burger, but other young guests have a, well, more sophisticated approach to dining. Four Magic Kingdom Park table-service restaurants are adding some delicious new dishes just for kids for ages 3 to 9. At Tony's Town Square, look for a steak skewer "spiedini" with roasted sweet potato fries and fresh fruit (spiedini refers to cubes of meat cooked on a skewer, an Italian specialty). Also at Tony's, a grilled cheese sandwich on multigrain bread sliced into "dippers" with tomato sauce on the side should appeal to just about any child.

Liberty Tree Tavern is featuring a new barbecued chicken and pineapple flatbread pizza with a side of crisp veggies and apples, or oven-roasted turkey with mashed potatoes, veggies and fruit.

At Cinderella's Royal Table, youngsters can try the new chicken drumette with rice and broccolini, grilled beef skewers with mashed potatoes and corn, or a chicken pot pie topped with a biscuit crust. (We want to try that one.)

And The Plaza Restaurant has a kids' plate with grilled chicken slices, cous cous and a fresh fruit skewer. Ah, to be a young 'un again.

Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom opens to Walt Disney World Guests in February (chipandco.com)
Is Cinderella’s Royal Table worth the 2 dining credits? (chipandco.com)

Michelle Obama to Visit ESPN Wide World of Sports

Posted: 09 Feb 2012 12:00 PM PST

Just a few short weeks after President Obama visited Walt Disney World, First Lady Michelle Obama is set to visit ESPN Wide World of Sports on Saturday February 11. The visit will celebrate the second anniversary of her “Let’s Move” exercise and diet campaign.

According to the Orlando Sentinel, Obama will speak Saturday morning at Northland Church before heading to the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex to workout with families that afternoon. Just like the Presidents visit, it is an invite only event. Tickets have already been distributed through local churches that are participating. She will also be joined by professional athlete’s and stars of the Disney Channel.

Disney’s 2012 Health & Fitness Expo Event Details (chipandco.com)
WOW Moment of the Day Sweepstakes from ESPN and 1-800-Flowers (chipandco.com)

2012-02-10T11:48:00.001-08:00

SeaWorld Orlando: TurtleTrek progress report
Legoland Florida: What’s coming up
Star sighting: ‘Twilight’ actor Booboo Stewart at SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando: TurtleTrek progress report

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 10:42 AM PST

Panels are in place for TurtleTrek, a domed 3-D attraction opening at SeaWorld Orlando this spring. (Photo by Ricardo Rameriz Buxeda, Orlando Sentinel)

Right now, TurtleTrek is a dull gray dome in the corner of SeaWorld Orlando. Its future should be much brighter once the 3-D, in-the-round film about the life journey of a sea turtle begins operation this spring.

The attraction has reached a key moment in its construction as its structure – including 34 projectors, 344 panels and 22 hidden speakers – is complete. Its building was once the 1980s-era Manatee Rescue attraction near the Journey to Atlantis ride.

Creative director Brian Morrow walked members of the media through the dome on Friday and talked about the upcoming attraction.

When guests arrive at TurtleTrek, the dome will be mostly dark.

"The intention is not to show that you're in a theater when you walk in, but actually that you're moving into the beach," Morrow says.

That's where our hero turtle's life begins, and the story will be told from her perspective.

"The sand grandules [seen in the film] on the beach are probably the size of baseballs from a turtle point of view," Morrow says. He wouldn't share her name yet (although she does have one), but we do know that she will sport orange markings and a "unique pattern that appears to be sunshine," he says. Orange has a recurring role in TurtleTrek, which Morrow says represents the color of "everyday heroes" to SeaWorld.

Audience members will follow a 25-year space with the hero turtle and meet some buddies and other creatures along the way, including dolphins, sharks, mantas and jellyfish. There will be drama – obstacles that are both man-made and ones found in nature.

"Guests will actually get to experience what it's like to feel like to be attacked by a giant ghost crab, which in this space will be about 27 feet tall," Morrow says.

They'll also get caught in a fishing net and (Spoiler alert!) rescued.

The nature of the computer-generated film – previously termed "hyper-real" is overachieving, Morrow says.

"It's much more intense that we expected," he says.

The attraction will hold nearly 200 guests that will stand on a center platform and watch the film, which should clock in at under 7 minutes, Morrow says. Most of the projector are under the platform and use mirrors to reflect onto the dome's panels.

There is no "front" to the screen, with action happening on all sides.

Viewers "will actually rotate and move during the theater experience. It's a very active viewing experience," says Morrow.

Legoland Florida: What’s coming up

Posted: 09 Feb 2012 02:10 PM PST

Legoland Florida has identified a few new coming attractions to the Winter Haven theme park, which opened in October.

+ In March, look for the opening of the Warner Brothers Game Zone in the park’s Imagination Zone. Kids there will be able to play Lego-based video games on kiosks and iPads.

+ March 28 marks the debut of the Fresh From Florida Greenhouse tour, which showcases how Florida fruits and vegetables are grown, harvested and cleaned before, eventually, being consumed.

+ A couple of partnerships are coming. The National Fire Protective Association will team with the park to educate familes about fire prevention. The group also will be the sponsor of the “Big Test” live show, which sports a fireman theme. Meanwhile, Legoland Florida has been named the “Official Family Theme Park” for the Orlando City Soccer Club. As part of that partnership, the park will participate in the opening ceremonies of the first home game of the regular season. The April 15 activities will honor youth soccer organizations across Central Florida.

+ Legoland’s water-park area, as previously announced, will open to the public on May 26, the Saturday before Memorial Day.

Star sighting: ‘Twilight’ actor Booboo Stewart at SeaWorld Orlando

Posted: 09 Feb 2012 12:55 PM PST

Booboo Stewart, who plays Seth in the “Twilight” movies, cools off with beluga whales in the Wild Arctic attraction at SeaWorld Orlando this week. The actor was in town to promote the DVD release of “Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, Part One.” (Photo by SeaWorld Orlando)

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