AUTHOR: Tom Bell

Tom is the former host/producer of the Disneyland Edition podcast and is currently the co-host of the Connecting With Walt podcast, plus is also providing Disneyland content from the parks. He enjoys traveling with friends and spending time with family, including his son and grandson. In his spare time he volunteers with Scouts BSA and Cub Scouts, and helped found his son's former Cub Scout Pack. His favorite Disneyland attraction is Space Mountain.

Small Backstage Fire at Disneyland Extinguished Quickly, No Injuries Reported

By Tom Bell | Published February 7, 2020

A small fire broke out Thursday night backstage at Disneyland Park, but was extinguished quickly, causing no injuries and little impact to guests. The incident occurred just after 6:00pm behind Main Street USA, which backs up to the Jungle Cruise boat storage area. Anaheim firefighters were called and, according to spokesperson Sgt. Shane Carringer, the … Small Backstage Fire at Disneyland Extinguished Quickly, No Injuries Reported

Iconic Actor Kirk Douglas, Star of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Dies at Age 103

By Tom Bell | Published February 6, 2020

Kirk Douglas, who stared in the first all live-action movie at The Walt Disney Studios, died today at the age of 103. Douglas played Ned Land in 1954’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Michael Douglas, son of the classic actor, confirmed the news on Instagram: “It is with tremendous sadness that my brothers and I … Iconic Actor Kirk Douglas, Star of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Dies at Age 103

New Treats at Disney Parks to Celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Cinderella

By Tom Bell | Published February 5, 2020

To celebrate the 70th anniversary of Cinderella, Walt Disney World is rolling out a carriage full of treats and the Disneyland Resort is hosting a tea fit for a princess. Walt Disney World Available now through February 28th, unless otherwise noted. Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo Cake – Lemon-scented Bavarian mousse filled with blueberry compote on top of a … New Treats at Disney Parks to Celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Cinderella

February 2020 Pin Releases for Disneyland and Walt Disney World

By Tom Bell | Published February 5, 2020

February pin releases at Walt Disney World and the Disneyland Resort celebrate Sleeping Beauty, Mardi Gras, croquet, and more. It’s going to be a busy month at the Disneyland Resort with pins honoring the 25th anniversary of the Indiana Jones Adventure, the premier of the new Magic Happens parade, and the start of the Disney … February 2020 Pin Releases for Disneyland and Walt Disney World

Disneyland Resort Adding FASTPASS to Autopia and Monsters, Inc. Mike and Sully to the Rescue

By Tom Bell | Published February 5, 2020

The Disneyland Resort has announced that they will soon add FASTPASS service to Autopia at Disneyland Park and Monsters, Inc. Mike and Sully to the Rescue at Disney California Adventure. Both attractions will also be available on Disney MaxPass. Disneyland did not announced a FASTPASS start date for the classic attractions. Source: Disney Parks Blog

The Walt Disney Company 1st Quarter Earnings Show Fiscal 2020 is Off to a Good Start

By Tom Bell | Published February 4, 2020

Tuesday afternoon, The Walt Disney Company released their earnings report for the 1st fiscal quarter of 2020 (ending December 28, 2019), showing revenue up 36% and income up 9% over last year for the quarter. Diluted earnings per share, however, decreased 37%. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger said in a written statement, “We … The Walt Disney Company 1st Quarter Earnings Show Fiscal 2020 is Off to a Good Start

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas and Special Offers at Disney Springs

By Tom Bell | Published February 4, 2020 | Updated February 6, 2020

The merchants at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World have put together some gift ideas and a few special offers to make your Valentine’s Day gift giving a little more magical. ALEX AND ANI – Spend $68 or more and receive a free give, now through Feb. 14 while supplies last. Ever After Jewelry Co. … Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas and Special Offers at Disney Springs

Disney’s Team of Heroes to Help Transform Three Central Florida Children’s Hospitals

By Tom Bell | Published February 4, 2020

Disney’s Team of Heroes initiative that began two years ago will soon be expanding to three Central Florida children’s hospitals. The five-year, $100 million investment brings popular Disney stories to the hospitals, and hopefully a bit of comfort and joy to the patients. Disney will create interactive play spaces, murals, interactive art, and more to … Disney’s Team of Heroes to Help Transform Three Central Florida Children’s Hospitals

U.S. News & World Report Ranks Disney Cruise Line, Disney Parks Among Best in 2020

By Tom Bell | Published February 4, 2020

U.S. News & World Report has released its 2020 Best rankings and Disney Cruise Line, Walt Disney World, and the Disneyland Resort are all listed in several categories. On the list of Best Cruise Lines for Families, Disney Cruise Line was #1, followed by Royal Caribbean International and Carnival Cruise Line. “From its signature Sail-A-Wave … U.S. News & World Report Ranks Disney Cruise Line, Disney Parks Among Best in 2020

New 70s-Inspired Wear It Proud Merchandise Collection Now Available in Disney Parks

By Tom Bell | Published February 4, 2020

A new merchandise collection inspired by the 1970s is now available at Walt Disney World, the Disneyland Resort, and online at shopDisney.com. The Wear It Proud collection is has a variety of apparel that are available in fun, vibrant colors. Every new collection, of course, starts with a spirit jersey or two…one for each coast. … New 70s-Inspired Wear It Proud Merchandise Collection Now Available in Disney Parks