In this episode we take a look at two attractions that had short stays at Disneyland. Learn about The Viewliner and The Phantom Boats. They actually have some great stories to go along with the histoy, so dont miss it. Plus the latest Disneyland Resort News With Tommy.

The Disneyland Resort News With Tommy

1. Disneyland Helps Local Schools With Special Grants – Seven teachers at Paul Revere Elementary School in Anaheim applied for and received Disneyland CREATE Grants this year to fund a variety of visual and performing arts projects, including theatrical puppet shows.

The Disneyland Resort funded more than 350 visual and performing arts projects at local schools this year, inspiring creativity in nearly 75,000 Orange County, Calif., students! Since 1994, the Disneyland CREATE Grants program has contributed more than $1.5 million in needed classroom funding!

http://publicaffairs.disneyland.com/education/create-grants/?CMP=SOC-DPFY13Q2InspiringClassroomCreativitywithDLCreateGrants000109-05-13

2. Copper Wire Thieves Cut Power To Disneyland Resort Area Hotels – Last Friday night around 9:00 p.m. a loud explosion came from an vacant hotel at Harbor and Katella. When police arrived they found two people severely burned near the electrical panels. One person died and the other is in critical condition. Four hotels nearby lost power – Disneyland and Disney California Adventure were not affected. Power was restored about four hours later, early Saturday morning.

3. AP Discounts Are Continued! – Disneyland Resort Annual Passholder 20% merchandise discount has been extended to December 31, 2013.

4. D23.com Gets Refurbished, New Free Offers Coming –
http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20130516005303/en/D23-Official-Disney-Fan-Club-Launches-Reimagined

Read StitchKingdom.com’s insightful intervew with Steven Clark about the upcoming changes: http://www.stitchkingdom.com/disney-exclusive-d23s-steven-clark-free-membership-archive-finds-d23-expo-62737/

5. Swing Dancing Returns to Disneyland! – During the All-Nighter on May 24th, Royal Theatre at Fantasy Faire hosts a Royal Swing Ball, with a live band, The Tim Gill All-Stars, from 10 p.m. – 1:40 a.m., and beginning June 15 the “Jump, Jive, Boogie Swing Party” will return to the Royal Theatre for select nights during the summer.

Also, check out the new merchandise for the 24 hour Disney Day here: http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2013/05/eye-mazing-merchandise-for-monstrous-summer-all-night-party-at-disney-parks-on-may-24-2013/

5. Limited Time Magic – Glow with the Show –

http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2013/05/video-special-limited-time-magic-viewing-area-for-magical-fireworks-spectacular-at-disneyland-resort/

6. Video of the Week – See decorated rubber ducks “race” through “it’s a small world” at Disneyland park to raise money for charity! http://bit.ly/10IDQou

I get a lot of questions along the lines of, how do you find / see all of these details. The quick answer is obviously, you need to stop and smell the roses. As Ferris Bueller said, “Life moves pretty fast, if you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” That’s the real trick to finding Disneyland’s many details. That’s all there is too it. Thanks for reading this post. What? You want something a little more specific? Ok, I’ve still got a little space Lynn and Laura let me have. Here is what I do to apply this principle.

First of all, I literally stop and look around. I look up, I look down, but most of all I look backwards. Especially in lines. The Imagineers know most people look the direction of the line’s movement, so they will put some of their best stuff behind you. Sometimes things peek my interests right off the bat. Other times, I look at something and think, is there something here and just take a picture I can look at more later. I will use this techniques in areas such as queues where you can’t stop for long periods of time to just look at something. I will then look at it later and do research to see if there is something there. I did this with the Mule Engine in the Thunder Mountain queue. I looked at them every time I went and took several pictures. Then one day I found the answer I was looking for.  I learned that the one in the queue and one behind Thunder Mountain were used in the movie Hot Lead, Cold Feet staring Don Knotts.

Another way to find these hidden secrets is to do research before you go. Read books or cruise pages on the internet. Shameless plug, my book Seen, Un-Seen Disneyland would be great for this. There are many great books out there. Books by Jeff Kurtti, Jeff Heimbuch, Dave Smith, Sam Gennawey, Kevin Yee, Tim O’Day, Joshua Shaffer, and The Disney Imagineers just to name a few.

Be careful though, especially with the internet. The internet is self feeding, so one person posts something, another copies it, and before you know it, it is on several sites and everyone is taking it as the truth. You see this a lot with “quotes” from Walt Disney. Another is the spike behind Sleeping Beauty’s Castle being the center of the park. This is a classic example of such a Disney Urban Legend. There is also the clock on the back side of the castle being set to the time of Walt Disney’s death. This one is quickly dismissed by looking at the clock and then looking at Walt Disney’s obituary. I’m not saying be a total negative nelly, just be aware while cruising the internet. Use multiple resources like an internet source and a book.

Another great way to learn about many Un-Seen treasures is by listening to podcasts such as The Sweep Spot, Dis-Geek, Mousetalgia, Communicore Weekly, Dis-Unplugged, DL Rage, and many, many others. Find one or more that are entertaining and/or informative. Listen to them while driving to and from work like I do, while working, or even while exercising. These shows can be very fun, entertaining and informative.

The last source I’ll write about is looking at DVD’s / Blu Rays and videos. Especially the ones of people who worked on the various projects. You’d be surprised how many videos of the great imagineers such as Tony Baxter, Rolly Crump, Bob Gurr and many more are out there. Many have books too. Check out the bonus material on Disney DVDs / Blu Rays. As Jeff Kurtti recently said on one of my posts, “Did no one watch the Walt Disney Treasures DVDs I produced?” These are a great series with a lot of great information. They are a must for the true Disney fan. Also check You Tube.

There are additional ways to get information such as attending Disney related events, emailing Dave Smith at Ask Dave, Talking with Imagineers you have the opportunity to meet, or fellow fans. And don’t think I’m just talking about Disneyland. You can find these Un-Seen treasures at all the parks and even the Walt Disney Studios. I find great joy in finding and sharing these hidden treasures that Walt Disney and his imagineers add to make the Park that special place we call Disneyland.

In this episode Ken and Lynn Discuss why they decided to work for Disney. They discuss their love for the park, and when it started.
I was originally going to talk about something else on this episode but was inspired by a podcast I was listening to at work Friday. The podcast was Tales From The Jungle Crews. This podcast is normally a funny, and entertaining podcast but the last episode was just Kyle talking about his most recent trip to the Walt Disney Family Museum. I was touched by his description and how it affected him. I really just learned it is not about whether the people mover never comes back or if Walt would have allowed alcohol in the Magic Kingdom, it just came down to the man Walt Disney and his dreams, and passions. He designed Disneyland because he wanted one, and for others to enjoy. He loved to just sit and watch people enjoy his park. He had no idea that thousands and thousands of people over the past 58 years would work there and some would leave with a love for the park that will never end. Some would meet friends they would have for a life time. Some would find the person they marry, and on and on, the stories continue. Who would have thought that my years enjoying the park, then cleaning up the park for 10 years would inspire a podcast like this one. It is amazing how many fans there are of Disneyland and of the man Walt. So may podcasts, blogs, books, videos and more are all here because of what Walt did. This episode doesn’t quite go into the detail I talk about here, but you will enjoy this discussion that Ken and I have. Thank you

The Disneyland Resort News With Tommy

1. Space Mountain Reopens, DOSH Reduces Fines – As we reported on last Friday’s show, Space Mountain has reopened again after being voluntarily closed by the park to update its safety conditions. According to the Orange County Register, after discussions with Disney officials the State has reduced the penalty from nearly $235,000 to about $82,000. Initially, the State said that Disney “willfully violated” three safety regulations, but later reduced that to one code violation.

2. Woody’s All-American Round-Up This Summer at Disneyland – This summer the Jamboree is introducing something new in the form of Woody’s All-American Roundup, a flag-wavin’ patriotic celebration of the Old West!

Sheriff Woody is bringing his Talent Roundup to the stage of the Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree. You’ll delight at the sight of Jessie’s slingshot tricks and Woody’s skill with a lasso. There will even be plenty of dancin’, strummin’ and singin’, thanks to guitar-playin’ cowboy Buckaroo Bob.

Between Talent Roundup shows, everyone’s favorite Billy Hill and the Hillbillies will take the stage in “Red, White and Bluegrass!” You’ll even have a chance to meet Woody, Jessie and Mickey and Minnie Mouse, dressed in their finest cowboy (and cowgirl) duds!

And that’s not all! Woody’s All-American Roundup will feature Rodeo Games, crafts and activities for the whole family and a selection of merchandise and yummy food.
So mosey on down to Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree for Woody’s All-American Roundup, starting June 14. It’s gonna be loads of rootin’, tootin’ fun! (Source isney Parks Blog)

http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2013/05/dont-miss-woodys-all-american-roundup-this-summer-at-disneyland-park/

3. A Secret Menu at Trader Sam’s? – Yes, just like In n’ Out Burger, Trader Sam’s has a secret menu of five different drinks that you can’t find on the menu.

http://blogs.ocweekly.com/stickaforkinit/2013/05/trader_sams_anaheim_navy_grog.php

4. New “Limited Time” Spring Menu Items at Earl of Sandwich – BBQ Pork and Cuban Sandwiches, Island Breeze Iced Tea, and Gourmet Cupcakes. Available now through July 15th.

5. Limited Time Magic – Make a Moment in Time Out of Mother’s Day This Mother’s Day Weekend, show mom the “time” of her life—as part of Limited Time Magic, whisk her away to World of Disney Store in Downtown Disney District or Fortuosity Shop at Disneyland Park where she can try her hand at the latest greatest looks, including a fashionable selection of all-new timepieces specific to the occasion! “Watch” her face light up with glee and then further the magic even more on Mother’s Day at Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park, where all moms will be honored with a special flower. Valid theme park admission required.

6. Video of the Week – Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon renewed their wedding vows at Disneyland last week. Check out the video here: http://www.etonline.com/news/133569_Inside_Nick_Cannon_and_Mariah_Carey_s_Fairytale_Vow_Renewal/

7. App Advice – “Story” by Disney – On your phone, you have countless moments captured in photographs and videos. The Story app gathers those moments and helps you transform them into stories that are easy to personalize, save and share.

https://itunes.apple.com/app/id548398240?mt=8
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In this episode we take a tour of both parks and talk about what we think is the best times to ride certain attractions. This is just in our opinion and there probably is not one right answer. Any other suggestions feel free to email us.
Also this week in the Disneyland Resort News Tommy joins us live from Disneyland!

The Disneyland Resort News With Tommy

1. It’s going to be a “Monstrous Summer” at Disneyland! – Mike and Sulley are dropping in from MU to scare up fun all summer long. Some of the monstrous surprises in store include all-new, collegiate settings in which to meet your favorite aspiring scarers. when Sulley and Mike step through the door to Disney California Adventure park, you’ll find them right outside the university dorms, recreated in Hollywood Land.

Also at Disney California Adventure, Mike and Sulley show their MU spirit as they lead daily performances of the Pixar Play Parade – the fun starts on May 24th!

Starting off this summer celebration, Disneyland and Disney California Adventure will stay open from 6 a.m., May 24 to 6 a.m., May 25, 2013.

You’ll be able to party the night away at both parks with special entertainment including: a “Monsters University” “TLT Monstrous” Dance Club and Star Wars characters in Tomorrowland and late-night Character Pajama Party in Mickey’s ToonTown at Disneyland park. The new Fantasy Faire Royal Theatre at Disneyland park will become a Royal Dance Hall late at night with a live band and dancing; and guests of Disney California Adventure will find Monstrous photo opportunities with new “Monsters University” “Dorms” in Hollywood Land .

2. A Ducky Donation – Cast Members sponsored hundreds of rubber ducks for the fifth annual, “it’s a small world duck race” Hundreds of rubber ducks were dropped into the ride flume to race against each other for charity. This year, CM’s raised $1,800 for Make-A-Wish Foundation.

3. Seven-time Grammy-winning trio Lady Antebellum gave a special performance at Disneyland park to celebrate the May 7th release of their upcoming album, “Golden.” Appropriately enough, this special performance occurred on the stage of the legendary Golden Horseshoe Saloon.

From the stage of the Golden Horseshoe, the band mentioned how exciting it was to be here at Disneyland, and then, Hillary Scott, who is expecting her first baby in July, joked that she and her husband, drummer Chris Tyrrell, have just taken their daughter to Disneyland for the first time! “We’ll be back, of course,” she said.

http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2013/04/lady-antebellum-celebrates-upcoming-album-release-with-golden-performance-at-the-disneyland-resort/

4. Limited Time Magic – Celebrate Cinco de Mayo – Celebrate the spirit of Mexico and commemorate the year of the ear all at once with your very own Cinco de Mayo ear hat! Capturing the essence, the colors and the iconic character of Mexico and its festive culture, this Limited Time Magic offering can be found right inside the Fantasyland Mad Hatter, located at Disneyland Park. Don’t miss the chance to “cap” off this festive fiesta in style, courtesy of a little Limited Time Magic! – Available Starting May 5, 2013, While Supplies Last

Glow with the “Magical” Show
This May, come glow with a “Magical” new show at Disneyland Park—purchase your very own light-up interactive ear hat and engage with shows and attractions across Disneyland Resort like never before, including “Magical,” Disneyland Park’s newest fireworks spectacular. But that’s not all—as part of Limited Time Magic, discover a “Magical” fireworks viewing area along Main Street, U.S.A., reserved just for you when you’re wearing your “Glow with the Show” ears. Space is limited and will be first come, first served on the following dates: May 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18 and 19.

5. Video of the Week – “Every Role a Starring Role” asks the Disneyland horticulture team how they keep the landscape fresh year-round: http://bit.ly/157vmdx

6. A few bits and pieces… ***Magical, the summertime fireworks show at Disneyland, starts this weekend. ***New Blue Bayou menu items – http://bit.ly/YeLqab ***Dancing with Disney returns to Stage 17 on June 14.

Many of you have seen all the news stories, Facebook posts, Twitter posts, and heard the podcasts on all the changes Cal OSHA is imposing on the Disneyland Resort. Now let me say up front, I don’t want to see anyone get hurt, I do think there needs to be a government watch dog for this, and they need to have some teeth. That said, I think the safety laws need to be reasonable. I also think that Cal OSHA needs to understand the difference between the letter of the law and the spirit of the law. In other words, there needs to be a healthy dose of common sense.

Many of the changes were good for Disneyland and the cast members. There has not been any reports of concerns for issues with guest safety up to this point. But some of the laws seem a bit to strict. You can’t nanny safe everything. Case in point, the 30 inch employee safety rule. No employee can be more that 30 inches off the ground without safety gear. That’s not even 3 feet. This rule has lead to the Disneyland Rail Road cast members no longer being allowed to use the water tower because its use requires them to get on top of the tender car which is clearly more than 30 inches off the ground. Well by the strict interpretation Cal OSHA is taking, no cast member should be allowed on the steps in front of the train stations after about 3 or 4 steps. They are clearly above 30 inches. Now the argument no one has been hurt yet is not logically valid. But is the use of the 30 inch rule here reasonable? It has been argued that this is part of the Rail Road cast member’s performance and therefore exempt. Are you going to stop Cirque Du Soleil because they are performing over 30 inches off the ground?

Now let’s look at the other edge of this sword. Since they can no longer use the tower, they have to use high pressure water hoses to fill the tank. Since it takes longer, they have to complete filling the tender at two different stations. That phrase “high pressure” just sounds like an accident waiting to happen. The hose could knock them down or worse break free striking them and / or other cast members. Having worked for the fire department for a number of years, I know what damage a high pressure hose can do and how hard they can be to control. Next, two of the tenders are so tall that a special ladder that is 30 inches of less has to be used. Sounds simple, but now instead of risking one cast member, three are required by Cal OSHA rules. One to climb, one to foot the ladder, and one to hand up and take down the hose as you can not climb with the hose. Now the additional dangers of the high pressure hose are amplified because the cast member is on a less stable platform. You also have to multiply the danger by two because instead of performing this evolution one time every hour or two (sorry not really sure how often they actually refill the tender), it has to be done twice in order to completely fill the tender each time. Not looking like this rule was applied with much common sense.

I don’t know how they came up with the 30 inch rule. There may be good reasons behind it. To me though, it doesn’t sound reasonable. And whatever height they would have come up with, I’m sure it would be lower than a tender car. There needs to be some built in breathing room. There should be a way for Disney to appeal the initial decision and ask for a reasonable waiver. Maybe a good compromise might have been to add an anchor point in the middle of the top of the water tender and the cast members wear a belt that has a line attached to the anchor point. Or maybe better, a reasonable review board could take a look at it and realize that the top surface of the tender is large and that even though it is over 30 inches off the ground, for the majority of the evolution, they are no where near the edges and not really in danger. Probably far less than trying to control a high pressure hose on a ladder.

Again, I am not saying all the requirements are bad, just thinking there needs to be a little more balance. What are your thoughts. Let us know.

In this episode we discuss a ship that was in Fantasyland, and no not in Peter Pan attraction, it was a restaurant. Come along and learn about this eating establishment, and what fun and details it had. It was there about where Dumbo is now from Aug. 1955 to Aug. 1982. David Smith joins Tommy and I as we embark on this journey.

Disneyland Resort News With Tommy

1. Disneyland Gets Hit With DOSH Code Violations & Fines – Last Friday, the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health issued The Walt Disney Company a “Citation and Notification of Penalty” in regards to Space Mountain and it’s safety equipment, paperwork and emergency preparedness for their employees and outside contractors. In response, management shut down the popular ride the next day and has remained closed all this week. The proposed penalties are nearly $235,000. Disney also shut down the Matterhorn and Soarin’ over California as well, however, the DOSH did not cite those attractions. The Matterhorn reopened on Sunday, the next day and Soarin’ re-opened today, April 19th.

Update: MiceAge.com reports this morning that the DOSH made a surprise inspection of California Screamin’ and examined their elevated evacuation platforms yesterday afternoon. The ride was shut down by the DOSH at 1:45 p.m. According to MiceAge, DCA management is “rewrite evacuation and maintenance procedures…and then train those new procedures to all CM’s for a hopeful reopening on Friday.”

Suzi Brown, Director of Media Relations for Disneyland said, “We have received notification of the citations and are working with OSHA to fully review them.” Concerning the ride closures, “We constantly strive to maintain a safe work environment for our cast members and contractors and we are reviewing certain protocols.” (Source: The Disney Blog)
http://www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/citations/The_Walt_Disney_Company_DBA_Disneyland_Resort_%20IMIS_315531715.pdf

Touring Plans discovered on April 16th that Disneyland now has Space Mountain listed as “under refurbishment” until 5/28.

2. Delicious Ideas for Mother’s Day at the Disneyland Resort – It’s the one day of the year mom really shouldn’t have to cook. So, whisk her away like a Disney princess to one of these spots for a Mother’s Day meal to remember. The big event on May 12 is “Join Cinderella and Her Princess Friends for Disney’s Royal Buffet for Mother’s Day.” It’s an all-you-care-to-eat feast from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Disneyland Hotel Grand Ballroom, with visits by Cinderella and live musical entertainment.
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2013/04/delicious-ideas-for-mothers-day-at-the-disneyland-resort/

3. MouseInfo.com reports that a cancellation fee for dining and “transformation” experiences are coming – Beginning May 9 you could be charged a $10 cancellation fee (PER PERSON) if you don’t cancel a Disneyland Resort restaurant/transformation reservation at least one day before the reservation. The policy begins for reservations on or after June 24.
http://www.mouseinfo.com/forums/content/2089-disneyland-resort-implementing-cancellation-fee-dining-transformation-experiences.html

4. Limited Time Magic – “Dig Up” a Delicious Earth Week April 22 to April 28, 2013
Let your taste buds get down and “dirty” during Earth Week at Disneyland Resort! For one week only, “dig in” to the “Worm and Dirt Tart,” a delightfully playful dessert offered as part of Limited Time Magic. You can find the confection at Plaza Inn and French Market at Disneyland Park, or in Wine Country Trattoria inside Disney California Adventure. But buy one while they last—this is one Earth Week celebration your taste buds won’t want to miss!
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/let-the-memories-begin/limited-time-magic/?int_cmp=INS-intDLRtoDP-limitedtimemagic

A Limited Time Annual Passholder Magic Event – Show your Earth Day spirit at these Annual Passholder exclusive double feature screenings of the nature-themed films Bear Country and The Ranger’s Guide to Nature. The screenings will be hosted by the Disneyland Resort Horticulture team, who will give a special presentation.
http://disneyland.disney.go.com/offers-discounts/bear-country-rangers-guide-screening-for-passholders/

5. Video of the Week – Meet the “Club 55ers” Original Disneyland Resort Cast Members
Few people can say they worked with Walt Disney when he was launching his dream of Disneyland. Those cast members have a special bond with the Resort and on July 17, 2010 a group of them known as “Club 55ers” joined the Resort’s 55th anniversary celebration. Listen to club members as they share their personal Disney journeys.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJxVRmXlsiQ

6. A few bits and pieces… ***The Mark Twain river boat is back in service on the Rivers of America. ***Jungle Cruise closed 4/29 to 5/1 for a short refurbishment. ***Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes closed 5/8/13-5/9/13 for refurbishment.

As most everyone already knows, Annette Funicello died April 8th. There are many great posts on her life, including the one here on The Sweep Spot. I wanted to repost my thoughts on her influence on my life. Here is what I posted on my Facebook page April 9th:

Now that I’ve had a chance to think about this, here are my thoughts. I was very sad yesterday to learn of Annette Funicello’s passing. MS is a tragic disease. She died of complications. One of my earliest memories of Disney was my babysitter telling me about the Mickey Mouse Club and then showing us the show that afternoon. Annette was obviously prominent. Good bye Annette. You were a big part in starting me down this wonderful journey. Thank you and you will be missed.

In this episode we look at the history of Audio Animatronics at the Disneyland Resort. We learn about the different types. We also learn which attractions may have them and which probably not. I hope you enjoy this look at Disney technology.

http://malloryobryant.wordpress.com/?s=audio+animatronics&submit=Search

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EV4RofhtcBc

The Disneyland Resort News With Tommy

1. Disabled Rider Stuck on IASW Get’s an $8,000.00 Payout –
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/03/26/disabled-man-awarded-8000-from-disneyland-for-being-stuck-on-its-a-small-world/ (Source: CBSLA)

2. High School Senior Saves Toddler at Disneyland with CPR – Even at the happiest place on Earth, things can sometimes go wrong. A high school senior from Taft High School became a hero after using CPR to help save a toddler at Disneyland. The Taft High School choir performed at the Disneyland Resort in California and then allowed students to spend the rest of the day in the park. After their performance in front of judges, Sara, a high school senior, was in line for the Dumbo ride when she heard a mother call for help. Sara, a lifeguard with CPR training, rushed to help the mother. Sara stated that she jumped a fence and informed the mother that she was a lifeguard. With the assistance of a nurse, Sara performed CPR on the toddler. The toddler then coughed up spaghetti. Sara later said this was the first time she had ever had to use her CPR training. Disney rewarded the teen with three Fast Passes to skip the lines at three different rides. (Source: Chip & Co.)
http://www.chipandco.com/high-school-senior-cpr-save-toddler-disneyland-103321/

3. Disney Legend, Harrison “Buzz” Price to Receive Main St. Window – In July 1953, Walt hosted a party and discussed the Disneyland project with architects Charles Luckman, Welton Becket, and William Pereira. When the subject of where the park should go came up, Luckman suggested that Walt talk with Harrison “Buzz” Price. Price worked for the Stanford Research Institute (SRI) and had recently finished two site suitability studies for major corporations. This was the type of expertise that Walt needed. The next morning, Walt had Nate Winecoff call Price and put SRI under contract.

Over his long career, Buzz Price worked on an estimated three thousand economic feasibility studies. Most of those were in the leisure-recreation-attraction field. Price would go on to advise Walt and Roy on more than 150 projects. (Source: MiceChat)
http://micechat.com/25548-wheres-the-window-part-1/

4. Iron Man Tech Presented by Stark Industries is Coming To Innoventions – Beginning April 13, Iron Man Tech Presented by Stark Industries will give Disneyland park guests the chance to see Tony Stark’s Hall of Armor, featuring Iron Man suits Mark I-VII – the same suits featured in “Iron Man 3.” And you will even be able to virtually “suit up,” yourself! Through simulation technology, guests will be able to see what it’s like to operate the latest pieces of the Mark 42 Iron Man armor, even getting the chance to test out its infamous repulsor blasts. (Source: Disney Parks Blog)
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2013/03/iron-man-tech-presented-by-stark-industries-coming-to-innoventions-at-disneyland-park/

5. Floral Mickey Through The Years Video – Floral Mickey. He greets you in all his colorful splendor as soon as you enter Disneyland park. For many guests, he is often the first photo of their magical day, making it one of the most-photographed locations in Disneyland park. The flowers that make up Mickey’s face vary depending on the season. During the cooler seasons, Violas are often used; during the warmer seasons, the outstanding Disney Horticulture team plants alyssums. These are specifically chosen because they give Mickey that “black and white” look in a photograph or from a distance. I know what you are wondering … How many flowers are used to create Floral Mickey? If you include the scrolls on the side, it’s 7,000 plants total — 4,500 on Mickey alone. Check out the video below to see how Floral Mickey has changed through the years. Enjoy! (Source: Disney Parks Blog)
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2013/04/floral-mickey-through-the-years-at-disneyland-park

6. Recycling Bottles and Cans at Disneyland Makes Doggone Sense! –
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2012/11/fun-facts-about-recycling-at-the-disneyland-resort/

7. Limited Time Magic – Long Lost Friends Week April 8th – 14th — Some rarely seen Characters are stepping back into the spotlight, but only for a limited time! During Long Lost Friends week, Characters you picked in an online poll will make appearances at Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree in Frontierland, where you’ll have the chance to get up-close and enjoy photo opportunities. You could meet Robin Hood, Ludwig Von Drake… even the Three Little Pigs! Visit Disneyland Park to find out, and be sure to sample some long-lost favorite foods too, including Monte Cristo Strips and Zany Cotton Candy!

“Cozy Cone” Hat – Available in April, While Supplies Last — It’s the Year of the Ear, and April brings a hat that’s sure to drive you wild! Inspired by the motel from the Disney•Pixar film Cars, the “Cozy Cone” hat is available in April while supplies last at Sarge’s Surplus Hut in Disney California Adventure Park. This Limited Time Magic offering won’t last forever—so put the pedal to the metal and come purchase yours. Valid theme park admission required.
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/let-the-memories-begin/limited-time-magic/?int_cmp=INS-intDLRtoDP-limitedtimemagic

8. Andy is not coming, he is in college! – It all started with a picture on the internet – if you yell “Andy’s coming” to the Toy Story walk around characters, they are suppose to stop and drop. Now, guests at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World are shouting this phrase over and over frustrating the character handlers.

http://www.snopes.com/disney/parks/andyscoming.asp

9. A few bits and pieces… *** Market House closes April 14th to get ready for Starbucks. *** Ever wonder what it would be like to have dinner at the Haunted Mansion? http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2013/03/26/dining-in-disneyland-marc-davis-centennial-dinner-inside-the-haunted-mansion/ *** Get a behind the scenes look at Radiator Springs Racers: http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2013/03/every-role-a-starring-role-radiator-springs-racers-electrician-at-the-disneyland-resort/ *** Dumbo Popcorn buckets have arrived to Fantasyland – pick up one for only $12.00.