Voyage: Mid Day Report

Checking in from my motel not far from Holiday World, I must report that I have ridden the new Voyage roller coaster 30 times, during the media preview and official launch!

The Voyage is everything they have hyped it up to be: there is at least 20 bouts of airtime, and a lot of intensity! Make your plans now for Santa Claus, Indiana and ride this new "classic" wood coaster, designed by our friends at the Gravity Group!

In the next half hour or so, I will head back to the park for four more hours of great ride time!

Tomorrow, I drive down to Beech Bend Park in Bowling Green, KY and ride the new GCI twister, Kentucky Rumbler! It may not be as intense as Voyage, but still a lot of fun.

Potpourri: Primary Polls, No Pujols, and Gearing up for The Voyage

Dateline Wednesday, the first primary election of 2006 is in, and after some heated campaigns, get ready for another round before this fall's Congressional elections and Ohio Governor. Ken Blackwell, former Cincinnati mayor and current Secretary of State, will represent the Republicans, and Ted Strickland will be on the DNC ticket in the Gubernatorial race. In the second district in Ohio, Jean Schmidt will continue her re-election bid as a Republican, as her Democratic opponent will be Victoria Wulfsin. Not sure how this race will turn out, but I'd be surprised if it were as heated as the special election when Schmidt went up against Paul Hackett last year.

There is a new balloting system in use here in Hamilton County, as well as other Ohio counties, which have done away with the punch-cards that were involved in the 2000 Presidential election in Florida. Here, it is a simple, one-sheet ballot, letter-sized. Voters fill in the blank rectangle with ink, making the one completely black next to the candidate/issue of choice. It, however, became very tedious having to fill in with a fine ballpoint pen - especially with races where only one candidate was running for that party. Next time, they should use some kind of marker that doesn't bleed into the other side. The process is finished when the voter inserts the sheet into the reader - it is accepted once a U.S. flag shows up on the display - making for an easier balloting system, while still providing a paper trail.

Not long after voting, I headed downtown Cincinnati for the Reds game against the Cardinals at the Great American Ball Park. I don't think I could have asked for better weather, and my seat was great, but can't say too much about the game. 3B Scott Rolen reportedly didn't make the trip to Cincinnati due to illness, and 1B Albert Pujols sat out due to a stiff back which probably resulted from Monday night's game. Jim Edmonds made a late appearance around the 7th inning, first pinch hitting, then at first base, then back to his usual position in centerfield. The Reds got the last say with an RBI in the ninth, winning 3-2. The Reds may be without Ken Griffey, Jr. but the Cincinnati ballclub has the best record in baseball so far, 19-9. Of course, the season is only a month old, and Pujols and Rolen will be back soon.

What's next? I am preparing for my "Voyage" to a "festive" town in southern Indiana. Arrival time: just after 6 am CDT. Before I go, rather than quoting a famous "sailing" Styx song, Chris Daughtry sang "Renegade" on American Idol last night. All 3 judges loved it!

URGENT: Help get Glenn back on the air in Cincinnati!

Now that Tony Snow has left his radio show, carried by 550 WKRC AM, to become the White House Press Secretary, the station is now asking listeners who they'd like to replace Tony.

At first there were three choices: Neal Boortz, Laura Ingraham, and Dave Ramsey.

Glenn Beck, who used to have the 9-noon time slot, wasn't a choice. Until now, thanks to listeners like myself, who contacted the station, 55KRC, Glenn is now one of four choices.

Now, you have the opportunity to bring exciting talk radio that goes beyond politics, back onto the Cincinnati airwaves! Vote FOR GLENN BECK now on 55KRC.com!

Update: Tony Snow / Glenn Beck

While the official announcement has yet to be made, sources say that Tony Snow, Fox News radio host and Princeton HS grad, has accepted the position of White House Press Secretary. An Announcement should be made tomorrow, Wednesday morning.

This also means that since Tony will be giving up his radio show, aired locally on 550 WKRC AM, 9 am-noon. In January, Tony Snow Show bumped off Glenn Beck, whom 55KRC had been airing since late 2001. However, with Snow's departure, this brings a new opportunity to bring back Glenn Beck (whew!), especially since he has a new TV gig on CNN Headline News, starting May 8, weeknights at 7 pm.

Glenn Beck is one of the most hilarious yet heartwarming people I have ever heard, seen, and met. Please help bring back Beck on Cincinnati airwaves by:

Calling 55KRC at: 513-686-8300
Or emailing: http://www.55krc.com/pages/comments.html

It's official: Cyclones are Back!

I received an e-mail from U.S. Bank Arena a few minutes ago...

Press Release

I don't know if I'll be residing in Cincinnati this fall, but seeing pro hockey back again is certainly good news. In a way, it's surreal!

Tony Snow to White House?

This week, we learned that President Bush's Press Secretary, Scott McClellan has resigned, and that Fox News commenator Tony Snow has been offered the chance to replace McClellan. Snow, a Cincinnati native, and 1973 graduate of Princeton High School (I'm a 2000 PHS grad), is expected to make a decision by tomorrow, Friday. It will obviously be a high-key, public, and extremely challenging position, but I think he'll do well and accept it.

Since Snow hosts a radio program, carried by 550 WKRC-AM, I'm wondering that if Snow leaves for the White House, will Glenn Beck be back in the 9am-noon time slot at 55KRC? Beck, by the way, will start a TV program on May 8th on CNN Headline News.

Cyclones to return to U.S. Bank Arena?

According to 12 WKRC Sports Director Brad Johansen, Cincinnati's pro hockey drought will end this fall - but not at the Cincinnati Gardens, as many had hoped.

Instead, the Cyclones, who played in the ECHL and IHL, will return to U.S. Bank Arena, where they played 1997 until 2004, when they suspended operations.

Johansen said, not quite confirmed, expect more on this Friday morning! Again, I hope the drought is over!

Wow, wow, and WOW! Back from St. Louis...

- 2 games at new Busch: 2 totally different experiences?
- 'Givl' Barry Bonds, how 'bout that young clean sensation that is Albert Pujols?
- Is there a new nickname for 'spilling your drink?'
- Is Chris Welsh a perv?
- Jim Edmonds + Scott Rolen = is Jim Scott a closet Cardinals fan?
- Didn't get to ride any Haughton escalators this weekend
- Ernie Hays should play Glenn Beck's martini music
- The Reds have gotten off to a good start so far, but then again, there is Albert Pujols...

More this week!

St. Louis: Back from Hockey and more

Today's activities began at Six Flags St. Louis theme park, in the suburb of Eureka, MO. The crowds werfe light, and I had a wonderful time. Unfortunately, I left early because of impending storms, but it gave me time to do more things. On the way back, I listened to the Cardinals game on 550 KTRS, and the Redbirds had a considerable lead over the "Tireds." I drove past the stadium, where a Cardinal home run was scored, and I could see fireworks shot out of the scoreboard area. I saw the end in my hotel room, final score 9-3 STL.

I got back out, and walked over to Famous-Barr department store, checked out stuff, and rode the various escalators, including wooden Otis escalators (the steps were steel, though). The store is expected to remain open after F-B and other May Co. nameplates are phased out for Macy's as part of Federated's acquisition of May.

I walked to the nearest Metrolink station from there, and rode the train over to Union Station. What an amazing complex! The former rail yard was converted into parking, restaurants, a small lake, Hyatt hotel, and shopping mall. The grand main building and grand hall were restored in the great Gothic style. While at Union Station, I ran into a broadcaster who was in town calling the game against the Cardinals. Hint: George W. Bush got his last name wrong!

After a meal and the odd encounter, I went to the SAVVIS Center arena nearby, for the Blues vs. Redwings NHL game. I think it's truly a major-league first class arena, good scoreboard system, and emphasis on escalators for moving fans up and down rather than stairs, ramps, and escalators (see "new Busch Stadium" on how not to do it).

Starting off, I got the chance to hear one of the greatest renditions of the national anthem I've EVER heard live in person, backed up with the organ. Again, the Blues, like a select few other sports teams, has respect for a great traditon known as the organ.

The game was fun, right until the end when the Detroit Red Wings scored, winning 3-2, but it was nice to see some of the best players in the game, just like I came to see the Cardinals in the new Busch Stadium, especially Albert Pujols.

Tomorrow, I'll go to the Arch, and a nearby Mass for Easter, and of course, Cardinals vs. Reds at new Busch Stadium, before a long, hard drive back home. They say St. Louis was the center of the world in 1904. I wouldn't be surprised if that were true today, at least in the sports world. Add 'what if.." an NBA team calling SAVVIS Center home might confirm that claim... Yes, some great structures have vanished, like the St. Louis Arena, Kiel Auditorium, Sportsman's Park, and Busch Memorial Stadium - but the spirit of the Cardinals, Blues, and.. to some extent.. the Rams (who played 4 games in Busch II in '95) will remain.

And not a bad Six Flags park either. The Boss was still great fun, and Bugs Bunny National Park is beautiful!

Tomorrow, I may make a quick post before I head off to Busch for the Sunday game, and after that, its Queen City or Bust! (not before passing through Johh-Effing-Kerry-Ham and In-di-an-ap-ol-is.)

The first Morning After - Cardinals 0 - Reds 1

My first visit to the new Busch Stadium is now history, and I'll say that it was a mixed bag.
- Yes, the Cardinals lost, but I like the Reds too.
- Many of the restrooms were small, but there were many of them!
- The escalators for the "regular people" were not yet ready. Honestly, there should be more.
- Sound system still needs work
- BUT, who can complain about the location, with the proximity to downtown, which is changing to become more of an after-5 pm destination - and the Arch in the background?

Overall, it's a great place, but I don't think it's the best park in baseball, as of now.

I'm about to leave within the next half hour to go to Six Flags St. Louis - it should be great!
And if I don't burn out bad, I'll go to the Blues-Red Wings game at Savvis Center. It can be 80 outside, they'll still play hockey in St. Louis.

In St. Louis, Checking in #1

I'm in my room at the Radisson downtown St. Louis. In just an hour or so, my first game at new Busch Stadium begins! So, this means, gotta go!

I had an interesting day at PKI, got to ride the new Avatar... it's great!

Go Cardinals! 2005 NL Cy Young Chris Carpenter pitches tonight!

Albert Pujols forever, Ken Griffey Jr... he's OK too.

St. Louis, New Busch just hours away!

In less than 11 hours, I will be leaving town for St. Louis, MO, to see the new Busch Stadium and two games there between the Reds and Cardinals. The new stadium is located on the south of the former (second) Busch Stadium, which served the Cardinals, baseball fans, and the city from May 1966 until October last year, prior to its painful but quick demolition.

Is the new Busch Stadium the best park in baseball? I promise a full, in-depth review, full of videos, and photos and such. I'll look at: the scoreboard, playing field, the seats, stadium/grandstand design, architecture, vertical circulation (elevators, escalators, stairs, ramps), food, prices, souvenirs, concourses, lighting, music, sound system, fans, staff, and of course, the teams!

As if the Wildman might say say, "St. Louis Cardinals forever, Cincinnati Reds... they're OK too." The Cardinals suffered their first loss at the new stadium today, 3-4, in 11 innings, to the Brewers. The Reds leave Chicago after taking two of three from the Cubs, and are tied in first with Milwaukee, 6-3. The Cardinals are 5th, 5-4 record in the second week of the young season. This series at Busch will be exciting. I'll be there for the Friday night and Sunday afternoon games, both behind home plate, though at different levels...

Of course, there's more than baseball in St. Louis. I plan on going to Savvis Center to see the Blues play the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday night, my second NHL game since Pittsburgh in February.

Before that, I'll be at Six Flags St. Louis in the monring and afternoon, riding the great thrill rides and coasters I love doing.

As Willie, who's trying to recover after the shooting of activist Kabaka Oba across from Cincinnati City Hall, I'll give you a FULL REPORT! And I'll check in Friday, after the game for a brief review.

Trip Report: Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom, 4/1/06

A combination of going almost five months without coaster riding, great weather, and buzz created by new management, especially Six Flags' new CEO, Mark Shapiro, I chose to make the drive down to Louisville to check out Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom (SFKK) on April Fool's Day (Sat. 4/1/06).

I bought my season pass online, and printed the vouchers at home, the night prior towards leaving. I took my friend Brian, who also followed the same procedure, and we left northern Cincinnati at around 9:30 am, arriving at the Kentucky Fair & Expo Center approximately at 11:30. There were a large amount of cars parked in front of the expo halls, as there was a Flea Market going on in the West Hall, but we ended up finding a space with a short walk to the park.

Walking in, security seemed more strict than they were last year, doing a more thorough search, making me empty out all my pockets of electronic items, camera, phone, and iPod nano included. Beyond that, the area was very festive and inviting, with balloons and even the new Six Flags "theme song" playing, and people and signs saying "Have a great 45th Anniversary!" The chain is celebrating its 45th anniversary, since Six Flags over Texas opened in 1961. This, however makes guests think Kentucky Kingdom itself opened in 1961, and not really in 1987 (before closing for 2 seaons after a bad first year). BUT there have been FAR more misleading claims made...

Brian and I soon made our way to the Season Pass processing center, which had a short line outside the door. Upon making our way, more were already in, while there were a LOT of employees working the cameras, so getting our passes was with little effort. Noting a short line, we went to Hellevator, which only had a one to two cycle wait, and only one of the 5 sections were out of order. Since I'm looking out on the vast Expo Center and the city beyond, I hardly notice wer're going to be dropped.

Since I haven't been on a coaster since November, I wanted to start off on a good one, so I chose to go to Greezed Lightnin'. We got in the second to last row, when we noticed that our friends Adam and Darlene were waiting in the back! Not only did we notice that there is a "new" loop, but also a "new" train: they were parts of the former Tidal Wave/Greased Lightning that ran at Marriott's/Paramount's Great America in California. You may recall that after being dismantled, it was bought by Six Flags Marine World as parts, but never rebuilt whole again. I noticed the train looked different, not only by its colors, but also its headrests, and the yellow markings on the lapbars (something frequently seen on lapbars/restraints at Kings Island). The ride, however, was of the same quality as before, with some good airtime sitting in the back.

The four of us went to ride Road Runner Express next, with a decent line. While it is a mouse with a lot of quick stops and lateral G's, it had some negative vertical G's as well. The frequently alternating view between Chang and Freedom Hall was fun, too. Right after our ride, we headed across the "Damn Bridge" to the larger section of the park towards Chang.

Earlier on, we learned that Chang was receiving a badly needed paint job, which would be of yellow track and blue supports. Some school children entered and won the contest to pick the colors. I'm glad they're going back to the original yellow color, the greenish yellow and purple scheme began fading before too long. The past week, we learned that a painter was injured after falling 25 feet from a ladder while repainting Chang. We ended up waiting about half an hour, into the large queue area, as only one train was operating - it's possible one was out of order, or not being used while the paint job is underway. We ended up in the very back row, which, while intense, was still a great ride. After getting off, we noticed 4-5 Army soldiers in full dress uniform, always nice to see. The temperature neared 70, but I guess still comfortable, whether in shorts or in full sleves and pants.

Our next activity, T2, brught us one of the biggest surprises of the day: both trains in operation! While it is often a slow moving, low capacity ride, that really changes when another train is added, and we had little to no wait. This, however, should be expected, since new CEO Mark Shapiro had questioned the practice of ride vehicles being out of use, especially when there are long lines. This is possibly the second time I've ever seen T2 running... "T2."

Next to T2, we notice that Chaos was removed. The ride had suffered a lot of downtime, and was replaced with benches and trees, as it is now a designated smoking area. New this year, Six Flags parks have gone "smoke free," with the use of designated areas. While it is hard for a park in Kentucky to kick the habit, they may be doing a better job, with signage, more visible areas, and public address announcements - eventually, more and more guests will get a hold of the policy.

Walking towards the back of the park, to ride Twisted Twins, we noticed that the Penguin's Blizzard River was up and running, to our surprise. In addition, the pathway that goes by the Top Eliminator dragsters has been closed off, and according to the map, removed as an attraction. In the past few years, Top Eliminator was rarely open, as least to me. This then, took us underneath Thunder Run, which we'll come back to later. The other water ride, Mile High Falls, was also in operation. With the moderate temperatures, we chose not to get wet, as both water rides can get you drenched.

Only one side of Twisted Twins was open, Stella - as Lola was said to be undergoing some work. The one side, however, delivered a great, smooth ride. While it is one of the lowest rated CCI coasters, I think it's honestly underrated. Since Darlene and Adam had ridden Thunder Run earlier on, and they needed to process their passes, Brian and I did Thunder Run, which had a line down to the stairs. While Thunder Run is a great fast, and airtime filled woodie, its operation needs to be redone. They need to build a transfer track for a second train, which I think can be done. Its capacity isn't too "swift."

Roller Skater is a neatly designed Vekoma junior coaster, and we did that, mainly because I wanted to add it to my annual count. After that ride, I went in search for a good lunch-snack, which runs me to one of the biggest complaints of the day: food pricing has gone up. Yes, Papa John's (which started in Louisville over 20 years ago), is now the official pizza at Six Flags parks, but $6 is very pricey for a "large slice." Medium drinks cost close to $4. Even though I had a coupon with my Season Pass, it cost $7.50 for fried Oreos (which were good) and a medium drink. This seems to be going against what other parks have done for food and drink - Cedar Fair parks are charging 25¢ for cotton candy - and Holiday World, only 1-1/2 hours away, offers free unlimited soft drinks (and Voyage!). My problem is not with the gate pricing and season passes, but the overpriced parking (SFKK is exempt), food and drinks is a pain.

Some welcome changes, however, were the placement of restroom attendants, ensuring clean facilities. This was one of the bigger complaints about Six Flags parks, and they have thus responded. Also new this year is expanded live entertainemnent. Many of the Looney Tunes characters were present, new shows have been added, and parades are planned for this season, as well. One thing I find emphasized a little too much was the "45th Anniversary" thing. It's nice to celebrate the anniversary of their first park, Six Flags over Texas, but still a little overdone for a park that is less than 20 years old. We also noticed that Thrill Park Theater is now showing "The Funtastic World of Hanna-Barbera," which the Paramount Parks, include Kings Island, is also showing. Unfortunately, the simulator ride was closed, which means I'll have to wait a couple weeks to see it.

After eating, we an into Adam and Darlene again, as we headed to ride the Giant Wheel for a panoramic view of the park. Then, back over the "Damn Bridge" to the front for another ride on Hellevator, and some flat rides. Himalaya was fun, because they play a good mix of rock and country (plus the Vengaboys song that Six Flags recently made famous with Mr. Six). We also rode Enterprise and the Rainbow, before deciding to go to the back of the park again for another ride on T2 and then Twisted Twin Stella. Darlene and Adam parted ways, and Brian and I got a second ride on Chang. Since I love B&M coasters, a ride on Chang at SFKK is mandatory for me.

Before leaving for the day, Brian and I got two rides in on Greezed Lightnin', including one in the front car (I had the front row). I simply love this Schwarzkopf shuttle looper. This capped off a beautiful and exciting day at Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom, which is beginning to turn a new corner for the better - new experiences, and better guest service, even as we were leaving the park gate. I might head back to SFKK in May when I go to Holiday World, possibly for HoliWood Nights on Memorial Day weekend.

NEWS: Cedar Point "mystery song" identified!

Last year, before the park opened, I had a hankering for music from Cedar Point, I was just months into having my first iPod, and the iTunes Music Store just a few clicks away.
There was this one instrumental jazz song with steel drums that played on the midways, no lyrics, and therefore was very obscure.

Before the season started, I e-mailed Cedar Point to see if they knew what it was called. Unfortunately, I did not get a reply... (or so I thought.)
Eventually, May 2005 had arrived, and so did the new ride, maXair. I heard the song once again as maXair roared above me, but still no idea who did the song. I did a video recording, which I took audio from, and posted on my website as well as on the forums on PointBuzz... still no answer.

Then came March 30, 2006: today. My webmail was acting slower and slower than ever, and word was that I was getting my emails bounced, as a coaster buddy from Pennsylvania called me on my cell phone tonight. This was a sign that I should move me e-mail to another application.
I decided to give the application "Mail" on my iMac a try. Within minutes, I was away, deleting old emails that were either spam or no longer needed.
Then I came across one of the e-mails that I thought I had never received, from Cedar Point.


And, so, here's the text of the e-mail:

Dear Mr. Allen,

Your question regarding the "smooth/lite jazz-like tune that has a guitar leading the main tune, which seems to switch between the guitar and something else" was forwarded to me for a response.

Frankly, I didn't think there was any way we could answer your question, but our Ace Jazzman Technical Manager, John Lyle, came up with what he's pretty sure is the answer:

BRAVE NEW WORLD from the BRAVE NEW WORLD album by Russ Freeman and/or the Rippingtons

If that's not it, three other songs by Lee Ritenour might be the one you're looking for:

GOIN' TO DETROIT on the WES BOUND album
A LITTLE BUMPIN' on the WES BOUND album
RED BARON on the HAPPY ANNIVERSARY,CHARLIE BROWN album

All four of the songs are great, so I don't think you'll be sorry if you go buy any or all of them.

Enjoy,
Marje Rody, Vice President
Cedar Point Live Entertainment

I immediately began searching the iTunes Music Store. John directed me to the right album and artist, but not exactly the right song. However, I clicked on some of the songs, and the fourth one was suddenly a direct hit.

Song: Hideaway
Album: Brave New World
Artist: Russ Freeman and/or the Rippingtons

Here is the link.

I feel so complete, as of right now. I'm going to celebrate by going to Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom on Saturday... Not exactly Cedar Point, but okay.

Visionland is now Alabama Adventure... What if?

Visionland theme park, located in Bessemer, Alabama, has been renamed "Alabama Adventure."
I assume that the name change is based on two things:
- To better market the park to the region, so people have a general idea where it is
- What the hell did the "Vision" part of 'Visionland' mean?

So, here's my latest "What If?" entry:
What if they kept the Vision name, and became a large chain that acquired other parks?
Here's their potential names:

• Visionland
• Vision Gardens
• Vision Adventures
• Vision Kingdom
• Visioncot
• Vision Studios
• Vision Island
• Vision Dominion
• Visionwinds
• Vision America
• Vision Wonderland
• Vision Point
• Vision Lake
• Vision Park
• Visionfair!
• Vision Fun
• Vision Berry Farm
• Vision World
• Vision Beach
• Vision Mountain
• Vision Adventure
• Visionwood
• Vision Grove
• Visionpark
• Vision over Texas
• Vision over Georgia
• Vision St. Louis
• Vision New England

A Universe in the Making

Check out "A Universe in the Making," Ronny Salerno's video documenting the construction tour at Kings Island held back on February 25, as well as the dinner and meeting at International Restaurant.

You'll get to see lots of dirt, lots of people, the picnic grove, ride units in storage, my fat ass, and much more.


You'll have to see the video to guess which fat ass is me. I'm not seen in this shot.

The Revolving Door in the College Basketball Arena moved rapidly today...

The Revolving Door in the College Basketball Arena moved rapidly today as three coaches associated with the University of Cincinnati Bearcats found new positions within the same day.

First, "The Big Guy," Bob Huggins, accepted an offer to become the head coach at Kansas State. The press conference began at around 5 pm ET in Manhattan, KS, just one hour before the Bearcats took the court to play South Carolina in the Elite Eight round of the NIT.

Not long after Huggins' conference, I learned that two Bearcat seniors were ineligible: Jihad Muhammad and James White - which helped conrtibute to their loss, 65-62 in the NIT.

Just after that game, interim coach and former UC assistant under Huggins Andy Kennedy accepted the job at Ole Miss.

And after that, former UC assistant under Huggins, Louisville assistant to Rick Pitino, and head coach at Murray State, Mick Cronin, was given the head job in Cincinnati. Cronin is a Cincinnati native, a graduate of La Salle High School.

And beyond Cincinnati, there was NCAA action in the 'Sweet 16' round. #1 Duke and J.J. Redick lost to Glenn "Big Baby" Davis and #4 LSU, 62-54. My YTMND site. The madness simply moved south to Altanta.
And my bracket is officially, fudged, as I picked Duke to win it all.

In Oakland, Memphis beat Bradley 80-64. WKRC-TV channel 12's Brad Johansen's alma mater had a great run, but Memphis was seeded #1 for a reason, so SOMETHING was normal tonight.

Back at the Georgia Dome, West Virginia played Texas, another close one. Just after WVU's Kevin Pittsnogle tied it up with a 3-point 71 apiece with seconds to go in the game, Texas decided to end the suspense by answering with their own 3-pointer at the buzzer. The game went to the Longhorns 74-71; at least I picked Texas in this one.

It would only heat up back in Oakland. UCLA, whom Dick Vitale picked to win the Oakland bracket, defeated Gonzaga 73-71. Another Final Four team on my bracket is out, and we see a sad Adam Morrison laying on the floor at the game's end.

In High School, despite the suspension of star O.J. Mayo, North College Hill won their state semifinal against Archibold in Columbus today, 49-34. Lockland lost to South Webster though, 61-58.

I think I'm done, and tomorrow, I might have enough energy to talk Busch Stadium.

Then again, there are more games tomorrow...

Bob Huggins is new Kansas State head coach

Our good friend and local sports icon, Bob Huggins, has passed the "Point of Know Return" and has just been named the new men's basketball head coach at Kansas State University in Manhattan, KS. He is speaking now, answering some of his critics and talking about a return to "normal" family life.
I wish Bob the absolute best of luck at K-State.

On a side note, his former assistant, Andy Kennedy, might be coaching his last game, at least at Fifth Third Arena, tonight in the fourth round of the NIT against South Carolina. UC plays tonight at 6PM. Go Bearcats! The winner plays next in the final four of NIT at Madison Square Garden.

The Weekend In Review

Who Says You Can't Go Home?
Saturday night at the historic Coliseum at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus, Lancaster HS basketball told Cincinnat's own Elder Panthers just that, as they beat Elder 52-49 in front of several thousand, more than half supporting the Lancaster team, who goes onto the Division I basketball semifinal at Schottenstein Center on Friday. They will face Trotwood Madison, who knocked off another local team, Lakota West, also this past Saturday Night at Cintas Center.
I made the trip up to Columbus for that game, hoping for a magical run for the Panthers. While the game was exciting, the finish was a downer (no, Rachel Dratch was not in attendance).

Again, NO, I did not attend Elder High School, but have met some friends who did, especially Eric Wood, who is center of University of Louisville Cardinals' football team, who had a great first season in the Big East conference last fall. When Jim Scott said "The guys swing Big Wood in the morning," he was referring to my boy Eric... whatever the hell that means.


Proof that I can be an ass(hat):
I've said often that individual businesses, corporations, and consumers should regulate smoking policies at restaurants and bars, and not government. I watched an Channel 9 I-Team segment about the pollution levels caused by second-hand smoke in area bars and restaurants - some ranged from 'Moderate 'to 'Dangerous.' Even with the bad levels, despite state-of-the-art ventillation systems at some places, as well as good Smokeeters... some of these establishments will sink if they go smoke-free - either by choice or through regulations. The libertarian in me wants to keep things status quo around here, but the health and moral side says, for the best interest in the public, children, and employees, says to support a general ban.

However, at some places, while they have large non-smoking areas, the TVs showing NCAA tournament games are located in the bar areas - almost all bar areas with TVs are smoking-designated. Because I have skin issues right now, going a few places close to home, trying to find one that havs TVs in NON-Smoking areas, was a real pain in the ass today. I settled upon Willie's in West Chester today, where while they have a bar and some seating that's designated for smoking, there are Smokeeters that make it comfortable for non-smokers like me. Honestly though, I've been to Willie's a lot, and would like to try something else once in a while.

If anyone knows of another place on the northern suburbs of Cincinnati that:
- Has lots of TVs
- Has good food
- Is smoke-free or has many TVs in the non-smoking area physically separated from smoking
Let me know!


Mixed Bracket
Bad: I picked many of the higher-ranked teams to advance, into the Sweet 16. Unfortunately, Syracuse, Kansas, Marquette, Illinois, North Carolina, Ohio State, and Oklahoma (Kevin Bookout's size wasn't enough... or too much for the Soonners), left earlier than I picked.

Good: My Final Four remains intact. Gonzaga, NOT Memphis, will be the winner of the Oakland Region. Villanova will beat Connecticut to reach the championship game at RCA Dome, but Duke will be the sole champion of 2006.

Tuesday night at 9pm is UC versus Minnesota in the second round of the NIT. I may be picking the Bearcats over the Golden Gophers, but I wish I lived closer to the historic Williams Arena "the Barn" rather than the stale Fifth Third Arena.


Another Great 'Point' to visit this website:
Cedar Point just updated their website. Not only do I think it's the best amusement park around, they quite possibly have the best official website for a park. You can see (and download!) good quality videos of their roller coasters, as well as check out their Blog, OnPoint! It's been updated with an actual photo of Tony and Tyler. And on the front page is the top banner - you can see many of the park's rides come to life! The latest addition, Skyhawk, is shown in the top banner, but has not "run" yet.
For more info, especially to see what others are saying, also check out PointBuzz, the top non-official Cedar Point site.


Why I envy some people
This past Saturday, a winter construction tour was held at Holiday World to see the progress on the behemoth coaster, The Voyage. Paul Drabek's great site, Negative-G, chronicles this tour, and is quite possibly the most comprehensive set of photos I've seen of Voyage so far. (If you don't know, Paul lives in Santa Claus, Indiana, just minutes from the park)
While it looks like Voyage will be up and running for the park's opening day in May, some attractions in the new Thanksgiving section won't quite be ready yet, such as the restaurant, and the Gobbler Getaway interactive dark ride. But you can't go wrong with Voyage!

Today, Beech Bend Park, located near Bowling Green, Kentucky was also scheduled to have a construction tour of their new GCI wooden twister, Kentucky Rumbler. Beech Bend is located about two hours or so from Santa Claus, IN, so it was convenient for enthusiasts to travel and do both in the same trip. Inexplicably, however, it was more than a simple construction tour. NOPE! Paul submitted a photo from today's tour - showing him SEATED in a MOVING train on the new wood coaster. It's not even May - let alone APRIL, and Drabek has 10 rides so far on a brand new coaster in KENTUCKY!

The Jim Scott Soundboard!

Today, I must announce that I have finally completed my first Flash project, the Jim Scott Soundboard! It is dedicated to the welcoming and often raunchy host of 700 WLW's morning show here in Cincinnati.
I will apologize in advance for the slow load and unevenness of volume between the sounds, but I think you will enjoy it so much you'll ask for more soundboards. I am considering making a Bill Cunningham soundboard, surely to contain many more sounds than Jim's - and quite possibly a "Seg Man" Dennison board, too!

The Start of the "Big Dance!"

After I wake up, the first games of the 2006 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament will have begun.
In this super-region, Xavier, Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio State are in, and the Musketeers, whom I saw win the A-10 tournament on Saturday, play Thursday in Salt Lake City. Of the four teams mentioned, I think Thad Matta's Ohio State guys will go farthest, making it to the "Sweet 16" round. They open up on Friday, at the convenient site of UD Arena.
UC not getting into the big tournament has to be one of the biggest errors I've seen as of late... then again, Kings Island can outdo that if they pass on a great mega steel coaster for 2007.

This week is has been a little more miserable, and not just because no UC in Tournament, nor my lack of employment. It's because of the air plane crash death of game show host Peter Tomarken on Monday. You may remember him best for hosting the 80s show Press Your Luck, which still airs regularly on Game Show Network. They announced that they will run a PYL marathon on Sunday in memory of Peter.

One of my latest ideas has been a result of seeing the documentary on Music Hall on PBS station WCET, as well as the race to complete the new Busch Stadium in St. Louis. The new Busch will be nice, but even after I visit, for some odd reason, I'll feel like there's something missing.

This big idea is a new arena for Cincinnati near downtown. I've been a sports, building, arena, stadium, and architecture buff for many years, and would love to see the "fusion" of the past, the future, and so on.

When compared to other similer cities, I beleive Cincinnati lacks a major, large (18,000 seat+), and fully state of the art indoor arena. Comparing what exists:

- Cincinnati Gardens (1949) is a nice, historic facility, and just about perfect for a minor-league hockey team, which the building's owners are desperately campaigning for. However, it hasn't had any major renovations since then, and its remaining life is getting shorter. If they don't get the team, all bets are off on the Gardens' future.

- U.S. Bank Arena (1975) is the city's largest indoor arena (over 16,000), and is the most comfortable as well. A complete renovation (1997) of the former Riverfront Coliseum replaced the seating, added a center scoreboard, and improved the main concourse - but it is just not the kind of place for major sporting events, if the city should pursue an NBA or NHL team. NBA will be very tough to get, and an NHL franchise competing with Columbus and Nationwide Arena just isn't going to happen. Next year, it will be as old as the former Riverfront Stadium was when it was torn down. The Arena won't suffer the same fate quite yet.

- Fifth Third Arena (1989) has quite possibly become the most uncomfortable and outdated large arena I've seen in modern days. Going up lots of stairs just to get to the lower level seats, the bleachers, and just about everything else gives it this "temporary" look. It just doesn't fit in with the revamped UC campus full of amazing and cutting-edge buildings. Shoemaker Center is the one arena of the four I'd love to dynamite.

- Cintas Center (2000) on Xavier University's campus is a serious improvement upon "The Shoe" - all individual seats, a simpler concourse, and slightly more restroom fixtures. Cintas has the concrete and plastic look like the UC counterpart, but it's still a nice on-campus arena, that, if kept up right, will be a good facility for decades to come.

This is why I propose a new arena to be located near or in the Downtown and/or the Over-The-Rhine district. It will carry the look of the old WPA-style auditoriums built in the 1930s and 1940s - architecture similar to Carew Tower and Union Terminal, both long-standing Cincinnati art deco landmarks. With attention to detail throughout, it could almost be the "Music Hall" of arenas (though not in the Victorian Gothic style), quite possibly being the best in the nation.
This new arena, or "Auditorium," will seat 18,000 to 20,000 patrons, similar to other modern arenas in Cleveland, Columbus, and Indianapolis. All seats will be vintage auditorium-style chairs, upholstered. The seating bowl will be somwhat asymmetrical - while part of the ring will be surrounded by suites and club seating, the rest will be exclusively standard seating.
Like in modern large arenas, there will be multiple wide concourses, with plenty of concession stands and restrooms. The primary method of moving up and down will be by way of escalators - yes, descending escalators at all times. Elevator banks will be located on the corners of the building, and transport VIPs, disabled guests, and suite patrons to differnt floors. Standard stairs will be available, but de-emphasized.
Again, attention to detail will prevail: artwork and carving will dominate the exterior as well as the interior. Signage and materials throughout will make one feel they have been taken into the 1930s, but the facility will function with the latest of technologies. A state of the art video scoreboard system will be placed a the heart of the auditorium, while physical signage will attempt to symbolize the past. Widescreen monitors and speakers will be placed throughout concourses.
The new Auditorium will be at the center of a revitalized center city area. As new structures will be placed around the facility, existing buildings will be rehabilitated for use as restaurants, entertainment, shopping, offices, and residences, as well as some smaller hotels. New parking structures will be erected in this neighborhood, tying into existing facilities; while this plan will accomodate a future rail transit line.
So far, that's my idea for the future Cincinnati Auditorim.

Results: The True Geek Test

The Poser Geek You answered 58% of the questions as a geek truly would.

As a poser geek, you're trying too damned hard. There's a strong possibility that you think you're a geek because you own your own computer, however you're truly missing the bigger picture. You aspirations of being a geek mainly come from your friends, who are probably slightly cooler. Get rid of those thick black-rimmed glasses. Being a geek isn't about style, it's about substance! So what's this all mean? It means you're probably a pretty cool person. You've probably got social graces and are well liked by many people. While not a complete conformist, you do prefer to follow along with popular culture. True geeks probably laugh at you behind your back. In a nutshell, you answered most question how you thought a geek WOULD answer, but your misconceptions deceived you. Truth is, 60% of people are geekier than you.

My test tracked 1 variable How you compared to other people your age and gender: You scored higher than 10% on geekness

Link: The True Geek Test written by ambientred on Ok Cupid, home of the 32-Type Dating Test

Super Saturday: Cardinals Busch TIX and UC-WVU

Today is a big day if you're a sports fan.

First, single game tickets for the Cardinals' inaugural season in the new Busch Stadium went on sale at 10am (9 am STL time). It was guaranteed to be a frenzy because only around 500,000 tickets would remain after Season Ticket and ticket packages were sold. Hell, they had to stop selling season tickets recently at 27,500.
Not to mention that about 6,000 seats may not be available until the All-Star break in July, which has the new stadium at a starting capacity of 10,000 less seats than old Busch Stadium had.

SOOO... I got up and got online before 10am (again, Eastern here), and tried for Opening Day, Monday April 10 vs. Milwaukee, but no luck as the sold out message came up around 10:30, but since I was really aiming for the first weekend, was still in good shape. I had two computers in the "queue" - this iMac running Safari, and the PC downstairs running Internet Explorer, and tried for two different games of the Reds series - Fri 14 and Sun 16.
Running back and forth was my game. but just after 11:30, I finally got a chance to buy for the Sunday game in my IE window downstairs. Yes, it set me back $85, but the print-at-home ticket is in my hands, and will be sitting on the Redbird Club mid-level at home plate.
This will be my first time sitting behind home plate at a Busch Stadium! Of course, I'll have many photos of this great new stadium - but if you can't wait, check out this great photo tour KMOV took on Friday!
Not long after getting the ticket, I landed a downtown hotel room off Priceline, $60 including fees/taxes. Add this to some time at Six Flags St. Louis, it'll suck to have to wait over a month, but it'll come eventually.

But thinking of today, UC is hosting West Virginia at Fifth Third Arena live on ESPN, and the Bearcats lead 37-31 at halftime. If UC wins, they're hopefully going to the NCAA tourney, and Andy Kennedy just might get promoted!
Tonight is the big Duke-UNC game at Cameron Indoor Stadium on ESPN at 9pm. UNC looks good, but it's time for the Blue Devils and J.J. Redick!

'Texas vs. Texas A&M' or 'Leave the Paper at Home'

In Thursday's Bryan-College Station Eagle, Texas guard Daniel Gibson goes up against Texas A&M's Acie Law during Wednesday night's game. While Law may have the ball, Gibson is apparently showing something more than his defensive skills - shold we say, something located between two balls?

Due to content, you are only seeing the upper half of the photo. The Eagle claims that it is an optical illusion, but if you check the full photo (preferably NOT at work), you might disagree.

Allen Arena Winter Soar photos are coming very soon!

If you checked out my new photo gallery, more photos have been added and/or transferred to it, including my final visit to Busch Stadium and my recent trip to Pittsburgh and Mellon Arena for the Penguins game.

In the next day or so, I will finally have my photos from the Winter SOAR and construction tour at Kings Island from Saturday.

I continue to be busy with house work, job search, dealing with skin issues, and other junk. And Elder beat Kings in basketball, 58-40 at UC's 5/3 Arena. That means I got out of the house at least once since Saturday!

Review: Winter SOAR at Kings Island

The 2006 annual Winter SOAR (Southern Ohio Area Rollercoaster) event, hosted by the Southern Ohio Region of the American Coaster Enthusiasts, was held this past Saturday, at the park currently known as Paramount's Kings Island. About 100 people were in attendance that night, making it the most attended regional winter event in Southern Ohio

Led by Maureen Kaiser, the park's Manager of Marketing, the event began with a construction tour of Nickelodeon Universe, which is a renovation of the parks award-winning children's areas, Hanna-Barbera Land and Nickelodeon Central. Except for Scooby-Doo and the Haunted Castle (separate licensing), all Hanna-Barbera characters and theming have been removed - as well as Richard Scarry's 'Busytown' and 'The Beastie' (name change). Four rides have been
rade, Vortex cars (which some people sat in for photo ops), and boats from the park's three water rides: Congo Falls, White Water Canyon, and Wild Thornberrys' River Adventure. Also, we noted that the shelters were named after Hanna-Barbera characters. We can assume that the shelters will either be re-named to Nickelodeon characters or some of the park's roller coasters/thrill rides (as was done with the parking lot around 2000).

The bulk of the evening's activities took place in the beautiful International Restaurant atop the front gate. While this facility has not operated as a fully-functioning restaurant for about a decade, it still hosts catered events throughout the season for groups, as well as special events. We started off with the bland but tasty LaRosa's pizza, chips, and drinks for dinner (I had to run off to the nearest Kroger store for more 2-liters!). I had more than my share of pizza, pop, and brownies, so that was good news!

There was also a good assortment of speakers. We began with Keith Chlapaty of Wyandot Lake, an amusement/water park located near Columbus, OH. Most prominently is the 50th anniversary of its wooden roller coaster, Sea Dragon. In addition to a large water park and assortment of family rides, are the park's live entertainment. Chlapaty mentioned that the park's owner, Six Flags, Inc. has new management. Its new CEO, Mark Shapiro, has emphasized the need for a quality family experience, and Chlapaty believes that his park fits into the chain's strategy very well. And, NO, he will not have a riding contest called "Go 'til you Blow!"

One familiar guest was the energetic John Robinson of William H. Robinson, Inc. (John is the son of William), which markets and advertises three regional amusement parks. One is Knight's Action Park, located in Springfield, IL, which features a water park and a classic drive-in theater.
Robinson also markets the historic Lake Winnepesaukah, located in Georgia, south of Chattanooga, TN, and not too far from Atlanta. "Lake Winnie" features two roller coasters, including the wooden Cannon Ball, and a shoot-the-chutes that dates back to the 1920s. John said that Lake Winnie today is reminiscent of LeSourdsville Lake park in Ohio - back in the 1970s. Looks like I'll have to stop there on the way down to Atlanta and Six Flags over Georgia!
Most prominently, the Robinsons promote Indiana Beach, a great amusement resort located on Lake Shafer, over an hour northwest of Indianapolis. Having been owned by the Spackman family since its opening in 1926, the park has added some of its most prominent attractions in recent years, including three wooden roller coasters, and has been very successful with good promotions, such as the slogan "There's More Than Corn in Indiana!" and the I.B. Crow. And, yes, John humiliated those that have never been to Indiana Beach, but gave out several great prizes, including some 80th Anniversary media kits (large boxes).

My good friend Brian Kosmac, who is a rides area manager in the Rivertown area, gave everyone a speech (no visual aid needed) on being a park employee for a day.
One of his outstanding stories took place in the queue for Top Gun, where he found two baby raccoons in a trash can. After contactiing the park's animal control official with no response, one of his supervisors (he was an Action Zone manager at the time) came down, and pointed out that there two raccoons in the trash cans. Brian replied, "Well, no KIDDING!"Not long, they had to remove the trash can themselves carefully...
Also, there was one situation where a storm was impending upon Kings Island, and most of the rides have shut down, except for one that should be - Eiffel Tower. Kosmac notices that there are still people on the top deck, and runs over, where he learns that the elevator's doors are malfunctioning. Soon, however, he, and other managers manage to use the other properly functioing elevator to the lower deck, and connect the guests and employees to this vital escape down to the ground. It was a LONG elevator ride, but above all, a safe one.
Finally, a girl with cancer lost her plush toy while riding Viking Fury. After learning about the story and situation, Kosmac told her family he'd do whatever possible. He locked out the ride, went underneath, and retrieved the toy, although very soggy and wet. When he located the family in the Festhaus nearby, it really made their day, and Brian Kosmac really made a difference in a bad situation, especially for an ailing child.

Russ Johnson, the representative from of ACE's Southern Region, gave out several door prizes from Holiday World, Cedar Point, and Kings Island. I was one of the lucky numbers, and got the chance to pick out a Holiday World Voyage media kit, featuring printed press releases, art, as well as a CD-ROM of digital media. That is one park I am sure to enjoy this year, with the opening of the new massive Voyage wooden roller coaster!

To top it all off, came Maureen Kaiser herself with a presentation (and answer to) ten rumors and legends:

1) The Beast is being torn apart, and will be sent to Carowinds.
False. The Beast will be open and ready for Opening Day, Friday April 14.

2) There will be blue ice cream.
True. "Huckleberry Dairy" will reopen as "Blue Ice Cream Day!"

3) The Vortex is sinking.
False. See "Magnum is sinking"

4) Jeffrey Siebert was the Chief Executive Officer of Paramount's Kings Island. Now that he left, all future progress for the park will stop.
False! Jeff was the Director of Marketing Communications. Business will continue as usual, including Beast Walkback and events, such as the Coaster Con in 2007. Jeff Siebert has moved on to Schlitterbahn Waterparks in Galveston, TX as the corporate director of communication for the company, which owns one of the top-rated water parks year after year.

5) The park is up for sale. If so, do you have to buy all five?
It is true that CBS Corporation is selling the five Paramount Parks. Not sure if they can be sold separately or all together. However, the park will open as Paramount's Kings Island on 4/14/06.

6) Flight of Fear will not be running!
True, andd False. The Flight of Fear at Kings Dominion will not be open for the 2006 season. However, Kings Island's version will be open on Day One!

7) Phantom Flyers at Kings Island and Carowinds are the same.
Sadly, False. The Phantom Flyers at Carowinds were the Flying Eagles at Kings Island, however, a lay-down ride will take the name at PKI.

8) Skipped for some odd reason?

9) Nickelodeon Universe will look like a carnival, and not open on time.
False. While Zamperla makes the new rides in a transportable form, the ones going in will be permanent installations. Construction is on schedule, and will open with the park in April.

10) A Campground will be open for the 2006 season.
FALSE! The old campground was closed down, and is being redeveloped to make way for the Great Wolf Lodge, which features an indoor waterpark for guests of the hotel's many rooms. GWL is scheduled to be completed in time for WinterFest. There is a campground about 10 miles away from PKI.

Maureen also answered questions about other rides, attratctions, park schedule, hours and more.
- The park will open at 10 am every morning, including International Street. However, on days where large crowds are expected, the gates will open up prior to 10 am, and allow guests onto International Street. The ACE Walkback for The Beast will continue - may meet at the Season Pass Entrance.
- Son of Beast is undergoing winter maintenance, and may not open with the park on 4/14.
- Delirium will open on 4/14.
- A Hanna-Barbera simulator film will open in the Action Theatre (next to SpongeBob SquarePants).
- The Park will be open Easter Weekend, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, AND MONDAY! 10 am to 8 pm each day.

- Will there still be Gold Pass early ride time privileges?
- Will the Bring-a-Friend-Free day format be changed, so that there is a more flexible choice that won't cause overcrowding?
- The above questions will be answered in the next few weeks, according to Maureen.

At around 9 pm, remaining attendees got together to talk about the 2007 Coaster Con, planning possible events, with Maureen Kaiser joining in at times. Before it was all said and done, Winter SOAR was a great success, all thanks to the 100+ attendees, as well as Maureen Kaiser from PKI, Russ Johnson and Brian Neal from ACE, Keith from Wyandot Lake, John Robinson, and Brian Kosmac (and his fiancée).

(And I promise to NEVER again sing "The Morning After" with Maureen's portable microphone. SQUEEEEAAALLLLKK!!!!!)

Winter SOAR event tomorrow at Kings Island!

Winter SOAR Details
Our regional meeting Winter SOAR is this Saturday. We have Keith Chlapaty from Wyandot Lake coming to talk about the 50year young Sea Dragon. We have the Official Gravity Group POV video of the Voyage. Maureen Kaiser and a couple other PKI speakers will round out the presentations. Pizza and soda, and to start it all off, a construction tour of the totally redesigned kiddie area. It just keeps getting better every year!

Just to get everyone to come, the door prizes are banners (a couple from a favorite woodie) donated from several area parks. We are also taking a collection to send Jeff something to remember us by, and we will have a big poster to sign and send to him.

The cost is $8/person over age 6. You must pay the $8 registration fee regardless of whether you stay after the tour or not. The construction tour starts at 5:00. Dinner will start at 6:00. Presentations will start around 6:30.

Please enter the parking lot through the south gate, and you may park in the handicap area. Come up to the main entrance. If you are going on the construction tour, please bring an extra pair of shoes because you will probably get muddy and we don't want to track that mud into the restaurant.

Pass this information on to anyone that may come and isn't on my email list. See you on Saturday!

Russ Johnson
ACE Southern Ohio Regional Rep

Gallery Update: Penguins vs. Islanders

My pictures from the Penguins vs. Islanders NHL game at Mellon Arena in Pittsburgh are now available in the gallery! http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif

This comes in addition to the Kaufmann's department store photos recently added. I hope to finish transferring the pictures from my last visit to Busch Stadium, in St. Louis, from September, to the new gallery.

Compared to my last post, I can quote the late Jack Buck on this one: "That's a winner!"

Latest Loser: The (Screw) Michigan Store

I am now starting a category here at the AAblog dedicated to the people who either make bad mistakes, insert their foot into their mouth, make good people look bad, or simply fail at life.

Had I started this earlier, I would have already nominated a few people. To start:

- Bengals fans, espeically U.S. Representatives Steve Chabot or Jean Schmidt, for electing to not recognize the Steelers' Super Bowl XL victory. Yes, most of the opposers came from the state of Washington (home of the Seattle Seahawks,) but I bet that representatives from Indiana and Colorado (whose teams also lost to the Steelers in the playoffs) had the decency to vote yes.


But let's move to now - even though it's something that's been around for many years, I came across it with some moral outrage. And not just because I'm a Michigan fan.

- http://www.cafepress.com/screwmichigan - that features lots of merchandise shouting 'F*** Michigan' for Ohio State fans and other opponents in the Big Ten conference. Being around me, you know I've complained about those who continue to lower the bar in American society - on our roadways, in our schools, at our beloved amusement parks, and most importantly, at our sports arenas and stadiums. But they sell products products not only for adult men and women, which might make you sick to your stomach - even and especially you're a good and noble Ohio State or other Big Ten fan (I hope).

How about a "F*** Michigan" baby bib? Or a "F*** Michigan" dog suit? They're even proposing a baby bottle for mommy and daddy's favorite alcoholic beverage! I can't wait to see more people wearing this stuff at a local mall or Kings Island this summer!

I'm not talking about the neighborhood bar, or the on-campus dorm room. I'm concerned about this lewd language being aired out in public areas where children are sure to be present!

This why I nominate the, uh, 'Screw,' Michigan Store as the Allen Arena Latest Loser. If you want to help nominate the 'Latest Loser, feel free to reply, but please, keep it relatively clean and logical!

Observations of new Wal-Mart book "Bully of Bentonville"

Today, I visited the new Crestview Hills Town Center in Northern Kentucky, my first visit since its grand opening as a new lifestyle center. Originally built on the site was the two-story enclosed Crestview Hills Mall built in the 1970s. The only signs of life, though were the Dillard's store, some mall walkers, a few shops, and the escalators, in the Mall's final years - it never really took off as a major shopping center. In 2004, demolition on the mall began to replace it with an open-air lifestyle center, like found at Rookwood or Deerfield (only better, IMO), including an all-new 2-story Dillard's.

Oddly enough though, like a Simpsons episode, it's not the main point of the entry. I checked out the Borders store, and I was certainly glad to go through the doors, very cold outside. One book I came across was entitled "The Bully of Bentonville," an critical expose (among others) on Wal-Mart, the world's largest retailer, by Anthony Bianco. Like most Americans, I think Wal-Mart is an overall good company and concept, but is not perfect (but have a better view than the authors of some of the books and media would). I picked it up, and browsed the middle of the book, which mentions Wal-Mart's growth strategy of building new Supercenters in Midwestern cities. The focus is on one of these metro areas, Cincinnati, which has about a dozen planned, many of them either now open or under construction. The closest Wal-Mart Supercenter right now to my home is in West Chester at I-75 and Cinti-Dayton Road. In a few months, one in Forest Park at Cobblewood Plaza is set to open - and another in Evendale near the corner of Reading and Glendale-Milford is being built.

Cincinnati may be relatively new grounds for the Wal-Mart Supercenter, but is no stranger to the superstore/hypermarket concept (that is, a discount retailer that contains a supermarket with a full line of foods, plus general merchandise). bigg's is mentioned as the first 'hypermarket' in the U.S. when it opened in Eastgate in 1984 by a joint venture of U.S. and French companies. The second store opened at Forest Fair Mall in 1988 (now Cincinnati Mills). bigg's now has 12 locations in the area (and another in Clarksville, IN, north of Louisville), though some locations are food-only, general merchandise is very limited. Like Wal-Mart, bigg'sdoes not utilize union labor, which has been publicized heavily by local food unions.

Also discussed some is Meijer, the Michigan-based, family-owned retailer, which also owns several superstores in the Cincinnati area, similar to several Bigg's stores and Wal-Mart Supercenters. While Meijer pioneered the superstore concept in the U.S. in 1962, it finally entered the Cincinnati market in 1996, and started a price-war with the incumbent retailers. These included Kroger, which has been the nation's largest grocer (for a grocery-only chain, now, that is), based here in Cincinnati, as well as the smaller Thriftway, which had recently been sold to Winn-Dixie, after decades of local ownership.

Within 10 years of Meijer's entry to the market, Kroger remains on top, with the most locations in all neighborhoods and suburbs. bigg's has also grown around here, having doubled its number of locations. Meijer itself has remained strong and added a few stores around town. But Thriftway, along with its parent, Winn-Dixie, suffered the most. The prices, service, and selection in their stores was poor. Not only did all Thriftway stores close in 2004, Winn-Dixie pulled many of its stores, including all of its Kentucky locations - partly due to Wal-Mart Supercenters.

Bianco brings up bigg's and Meijer because he expects Wal-Mart to hit them hard once many of the Supercenters have been up and going in Cincinnati. Kroger may sustain the least damage, as their hometown local presence as a grocer, and ability to conduct deep discounts and sales will keep them strong. bigg's however, could be in trouble, as they and the Supercenters are probably most similar - union-free and use of 'true minimum pricing.' But I take notice that the chapter is called 'Would the Last Independent Grocer Please Get Off the Monorail?..." Could it possibly be a focus of none other than...

Caught in between the chain stores in town is, of couse, Junge Jim's International Market in Fairfield. Founder and owner "Jungle" Jim Bonaminio gave a great and colorful interview (including some words not for kids!). Might I add though, that Jungle Jim's is a must-visit for anyone that likes food. His store may be an independent, with only one location - but its size is greater than any Wal-Mart Supercenter - and that's in food alone! In fact, Bonaminio has a second (but smaller) store planned in Oakley, in part of the former Milacron plant.

Why would Bianco give some silly big 'food land' time in a book about Wal-Mart? The two have their similarities and differences. Obvious are their desire to provide a one-stop shopping experience. Also, both are anti-union, though Bianco emphasizes that Jungle Jim is openly against the unions, saying they would kill his employees' productivity, but Wai-Mart CEO Lee Scott has put a more PC spin type of response. Note that when a Wal-Mart in Quebec, its workers voted to join a union (and in Canada, unions have more power, I assume), the company chose to close down the store rather than allow unionization. Different between the two is that Wal-Mart (and other chain retailers) are trying to keep their customers in the store for two hours, where as Jungle Jim's would like to get them out in 15 minutes - both the opposite of their current situations.

So, if Wal-Mart is going to out-price and out-locate Jungle Jim's, then how will the independent wacky man get by? He wants to become a destination for 'foodies.' Not only has he expanded the store, a mini-mall has been attached to the store, including some food and specialty stores. Restaurants, an event center, and even a hotel have been desired. Most notably is the monorail he has planned. YES, MONORAIL. In 1998, Bonaminio purchased eight monorail trains from Kings Island for $1. (Rant on this one later) The trains first ran in 1974 when an animal safari opened, until it closed down in 1993 as part of the Paramount takeover. Jungle plans to get the monorails circling around the store's perimeter later this year. Yet, in the book, Jungle sounds a bit concerned. Should he be?

However, I argue, that the competitors have been, and will continue to co-exist with Wal-Mart Supercenters. Wal-Mart may deliver on price, but price isn't everything. Compared to bigg's, Meijer, Target, and especially Jungle Jim's, the quality, service, and appearance of Wal-Mart is lacking. Their aisles are narrow and often crowded, employees aren't the best, nor many of their shoppers. And the architecture screams CHEAP and COOKIE-CUTTER. I've been to standard and Supercenter Wal-Marts, but find myself in Kroger, bigg's, Meijer, Jungle Jim's, and Target more often.

I won't get in-depth with the labor issues and 'putting mom & pop out of business,' many I disagree with Bianco on, but I will take the common 'libertarian' line: the best way to hurt Wal-Mart is to not shop there. If you love shopping at Fred's Market, and find their prices to be not too bad (though still higher than Wal-Mart), you should shop there. But we can't deny that Wal-Mart has forever changed retail through innovation, productivity, non-stop competition, and 'cutting out the fat.' Name a store, whether it's a small independent grocer, or even a upper-class, top of the line department store, that doesn't want to cut costs.

Bottom line: Wal-Mart could improve here and there, but there are far bigger threats to our cities and communities than some American success story.

Another week, another "controversy"

It's probably safe to say that the local hate fest against Pittsburgh sponsored by 700 WLW, Local 12, and other people around Cincinnati is probably over, especially since the football coverage is over and the Pro Bowl has been played.

Now Vice President Dick Cheney accidentally shoots a good friend while hunting. Sure, Mr. Harry Whittington wasn't severely hurt, had a minor heart attack, and recovered within a week, but you'd swear it was another -gate scandal, by watching the late night shows and network news.

"Why did he wait to tell the major media? Why did he wait to tell the White House? How BIG was the beer Cheney had? Oh, no! Dick Cheney invited me to go hunting this weekend!" And it's not just David Letterman, Jon Stewart, David Gregory, CBS, CNN, NBC, etc that are in a frenzy.

Bill Cunningham, who I usually find informative, informed, and entertaining, has me puzzled. First with the sour-grapes attitude against a legit team and Super Bowl win, now he's joined the 'Question Cheney' camp.

You may know that while I don't discuss politics too much on the blog, I do find myself to have some biased, differing views - though I am generally against 'group think.' I just had to speak out saying there's more important things in America and around the world. Things like coasters, ERT, park takeovers, Regis jokes, and drunk sports fans...

Cincinnati vs. Pittsburgh and The Truth

As you know, I was in Pittsburgh this weekend, and got home as the Steelers were winning Super Bowl XL. Over there, you'd think "Happy days are here again!"

Getting back home to the Cincinnati area, you'd think that the populous was generally liberal, and either Al Gore, John Kerry, or Hillary Clinton had just barely lost the Presidential election. BUT knowing that the region had helped elect George W. Bush twice, people are still pissed. They still can't stand the fact that the Steelers are Super Bowl champions, and lost in four quarters in the wild card game. The Bengals could have been leading at halftime, and had Jon Kitna not spent his time mourning Carson's injury, they could have won, and had a chance at the Colts and/or Broncos.

One one coaster site I frequent a lot, its moderator said that "the only good to ever come out of Pittsburgh was Kennywood."

Well, if not Mario Lemieux (though born a French-Canadian), or Dan Marino, how about Marvin Lewis?

Now the orange and black Kool-Aid drinkers are upset that Bill Cowher was doing the "Who Dey" chant at the rally in downtown Pittsburgh yesterday. Only could one team start a dumb-ass rhetorical question for their slogan.

Some hints for Bengals , Cincinnati and their fans:
1) Who-Dey? Dead-ay.
2) Beat the Steelers when it counts, especially before four quarters are over.
3) Win some Super Bowls. Only five to go!
4) Run some trains in your subway.

And the Vince Lombardi Trophy goes to the...

Five Time!
Five Time!
Five Time!
Five Time!
Five Time!

Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers!

And thanks to Ben Roethlisberger for being such a star so early, Jerome Bettis for ending his career the way it oughta be, the Rooney family, and to the Steelers altogether for beating the best (Colts included) in the playoffs.

And continuing to 'PWN' the Bengals!

Did I just say that I got back from Pittsburgh? Coincidence? You decide.

Back from Pittsburgh, and more!

I'm back home on my beloved new iMac, and yes I'm watching the Super Bowl. Having been IN Pittsburgh this morning and last night, the atmosphere, from Mellon Arena to Station Square was estatic for the home NFL team. And even on the way back home, lots of proud orange and black.

And now, it looks like what St. Louis couldn't do in baseball, and Indianapolis couldn't do in football - the Pittsburgh Steelers are about to do it all. One minute left in the game 21-10 Steelers over Seattle.

More in a few minutes...

Pittsburgh Pt 2: Comments and last minute sights

I left off with a trip to Station Square on the Port Authority Light Rail system. The subway station, right near the hotel, might rival that of newer heavy rail lines in Washington, San Francisco and Atlanta. Also, I rode the Monongohela incline, a very interesting and scenic way to see Pittsburgh. Before I leave town to see more of Pittsburgh at home (Steelers in the Super Bowl XL!) I'll drive around downtown, get some more shots of Mellon Arena, drive past Heinz Field (Steelers) and PNC Park (Pirates), and ride the Duquesne Incline up and down.
It's a safe bet that I'll be returning to Pittsburgh soon - I have yet to visit the wonderful Kennywood park nearby, and seeing a baseball game at PNC Park is also worthwhile (preferably against the Reds or Cardinals).

So long, Steel City.

Reporting from Pittsburgh Part 1: Penguins vs. Islanders

Not long ago (around an hour), I got back from the Pittsburgh Penguins vs. New York Islanders hockey game across the street at Mellon Arena. This is my first time in Pittsburgh and Mellon Arena "the Igloo."

My seat was in the D level, center ice, so the view was outstanding, it's a neat arena, even as the trend is to build new ones, replacing Mellon. More on the arena debacle in another post.

The Pens, I can say, haven't been doing too well, having a bad record so far in the NHL, plus with the second (and final) retirement of Mario Lemieux, and Sidney Crosby's bout with the flu, which caused him to miss Thursday's home game against Ottawa, which was lost 7-2.

Today's game against the Islanders would be more exciting - Crosby was back, and scored in the 1st period, which ended 2-1 Isles, but the Penguins would compete well, defend, and come back to end regulation with a 4-4 tie, plus a scoreless overtime period. The game would come down to an exciting shootout - Only the Isles would score two goals, none by the Pens. Another loss, but an exciting matchup.

Today was "Black & Gold Day" - not only for the Penguins, but also for the AFC Champion Steelers, who face the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XL tomorrow in Detroit. Some folks in my hometown want the Seahawks to kill the Steelers (bitter after a certain failed rhetorical question), but honestly with Shaun Alexander from Florence KY, I'd cheer for him a bit. But the surprise team this year is definitely the Steelers, having snuck past the heavily favored Colts in the playoffs at RCA Dome last month. It might be the finale for Jerome Bettis in his hometown of Detroit. And Ben Roethlisberger, what can I say? An exteremely impressive rookie season that we thought was followed by a sophomore slump. Go Steelers!

Later on, I'll head over to Station Square, and check out the sights, the Monongohela Incline, go eat, and ride the light rail. Pittsburgh has been impressive so far - I went into Kaufmann's earlier downtown. 11 floors are still used for retail space, and there are so many escalators, even some really old Otis wood escalators (with wood steps, although no longer in use). Hopefully Federated/Macy's won't kill it after they take over Kaufmann's parent company May Dept. Stores.

Pitts-off!

New hope for SFKK and more...

Seems the speculation has ended... Six Flags CEO Mark Shapiro visits Kentucky Kingdom, and the Louisville park is getting the attention it deserves. Le's hope it includes lots of marketing and better customer service, with Holiday World, Beech Bend, and Kings Island not too far away...
Louisville Courier-Journal Article


In the middle of big sports events and/or their cities. In September/October, it was St. Louis as Busch Stadium was being closed down. In November, it was Indianapolis as the Colts played the Steelers on a Monday Night. In January, I was in Chicago as the Bears hosted the playoffs (did not attend the game though).
Now February, I will be in Pittsburgh this Saturday to see the Penguins play the Islanders at Mellon Arena. Of course, Pittsburgh's football team, the Steelers, are playing Sunday in Super Bowl XL in Detroit!
Side note, it seemed that when Albert Pujols of the Cardinals had a magazine article not long ago, so did Sidney Crosby of the Penguins. Crosby just might be the Pujols of hockey...

Elmo in talking children's book: "Who wants to die?"

You may have read this, but I just had to add it for records here in the AAblog:

Local6.com, Orlando, FL story:

A mother in Dallas is one of several parents complaining about a new interactive book for toddlers in which Sesame Street character Elmo asks "who wants to die?" according to a Local 6 News report.

Family members said 16-month-old Miranda Boll's new book, "Potty Time With Elmo," was supposed to teach an interactive lesson using voice commands.

However, when the book's buttons are pressed, it reportedly says something it is not supposed to -- "who wants to die?"

"It's a sick joke," mother Angela Bolls said. "If it's a joke then it's a bad one, you know? And it's not necessary. It's inappropriate."

Bolls said she checked another copy of the same book and found that it says something completely different; "Who wants to try to go potty?"

The company that makes the book said it has had several complaints concerning the book, according to the report.

Think it's a Grand Illusion? You can get one, but since all of the books with the, uh, glitch, have been pulled from retail stores, so eBay is your only option now. Some bidding has started as low as around $10, but some auctions, including those nearing closing and those with the 'Buy it Now" option, are as much as $100.


Some YTMND sites:

elmo wants you to die!
Elmo "Who wants to die"
Elmo wants you to die!!!!!11

CBS Corp. to sell Paramount Parks, including Kings Island

This may be a repeat of news from over a month ago, but it is back in the spotlight now that Viacom has split into two companies, CBS Corporation now wishes to sell the Paramount Parks by the end of the year. Several groups have expressed interest.

http://www.cbscorporation.com/news/prdetails.php?id=175

Scenarios, if the parks are indeed sold, as a whole:

- An investor group could buy, such as the Blackstone Group. The parks could retain the 'Paramount' name as well as their existing character and brand names, through licensing. This would probably be the smoothest transition, as changes could be more gradual.

- Another theme park chain could buy. Most likely is Cedar Fair, L.P., owner of Cedar Point and Geauga Lake parks, both also in Ohio. Though CEO Dick Kinzel has said that the company's growth has generally been more conservative, having only acquired one park every few years since the 1990s, don't be surprised if they buy, if the financial situation is right.

When CF acquired Geauga Lake from Six Flags in 2004, intellectual properties, such as Warner Brothers, Looney Tunes, and DC Comics, licensed to Six Flags parks like Worlds of Adventure were not transferred to the park's new owner. Cedar Fair had to quickly remove signage, theming, and characters from many rides, as well as the children's area. Starting in 2005, Cedar Fair expanded its license rights to Geauga Lake by placing Peanuts characters in the park

Therefore, would CBS and Viacom transfer the intellectual properties such as Nickelodeon, Paramount Pictures, and CBS television, to another chain like Cedar Fair? What about other licenses, like Hanna-Barbera?

- It is also possible that the parks could be split up and sold separately, or CBS could keep one or some, and sell the other(s).


Reaction to the possible sale has been mixed, as discussed on PKICentral.com, the leading unofficial website of Kings Island.

- Some welcome the change, as while they appreciate the success that Kings Island since the 'Paramount' was added in 1993, they feel that it has been more of a commerical for Paramount and Viacom, at the expense of quality and choice of additions and changes to the park. They believe the days before Paramount meant better quality, rides, and entertainment than as of late.

- Others fear the change. During the park's 34 years, 14 have been as Paramount's Kings Island, which has meant so many of the park's popular rides and attractions have been named/themed after Paramount films and other Viacom properties such as Nickelodeon. They are concerned that the marketability of these brands, will be lost in the sale.

When Kings Island was purchased by Paramount Communications in late 1992, many were concerned about popular attractions either being removed and/or being renamed. While several venues were renamed to enhance the Paramount name, and attractions such Wild Animal Habitat safari monorail, animal shows, and some live entertainment were removed not long after the change, much of the park retained its previous state, including International Street, Hanna-Barbera Land (until 2005), and the Beast, whose namesake was added to an even larger wooden coaster in 2000.

Also in question are future planned attractions (including, possibly, a large steel roller coaster) for 2007 and beyond. When ownership changed after the 1992 season, plans for the 1993 ride were slightly altered. The old group had planned an Arrow Suspended coaster for the Wild Animal Habitat section of the park, to be called either 'Swoop' or 'Thunder Road.' Paramount quickly changed the theming, and the name of the ride to 'Top Gun,' but the coaster's layout was not changed. Nickelodeon Universe, the revamp of old Hanna-Barbera Land and Nickelodeon Central, is still moving ahead for Spring 2006, and the park will continue to sell and accept 2006 season passes and tickets as planned.

Yes, 2006 at Kings Island will be interesting, so stay tuned!

Remembering Dan O'Brien, 2004-2006

The following is a list of people Dan O'Brien thanked when he was first hired by the Reds as General Manager about two years ago:

Dan Fawcett, Lloyd Coughee, Jeff Odenwald, Kenneth Horzberg, Steve Krause, Randy Ademack, Hal Keller, Rolan Heamon, Hal Smith, John McMullen, Hal Rosen, Drayton McClane, Tim Hellmuth, Mertha Campbell, Tracy Diering, Jerry Kraft, Kevin Stein, Walt Matthews, Stan Benjamin, Andy McPhail, Tony Siegel, Linwood Stallings, Greg Whitworth, Doug Deutsch, Bob King, Gene Wellman, Dan Houston, Nelson Rube, Sean Pender, Tad Slowek, Lou Temple, Zach Manazian, John Blake, Rob Matwick, Don Cockstein, Rick Aponte, Julio Lenares, Ray Coley, Bob Riesenover, Bob Missick, Jeff Wood, John Daniels, Russ Artelina, Chris Lingus, Tony Taylor, Eric Nadel, Vince Cotronio, Brad Scham, Tom Grieve, Alan Ashby, Bill Brown, Bert Miller, Rob Wyndham, Bob Watson, Richard Wagner, Rudy Herrimeo, Richard Saco, Doug Melvin, John Hart, Tom Hicks, Judy Johns, Margaret Mayo, Debbie Benson, Chuck McMichael, Randy Taylor, Rivan DeJesus, Andres Riner, Manny Batiste...

Note that this may not be the complete list, and that it was only transcribed by ear, so many names may not be spelled correctly.

O'Brien out as Reds GM

Only three days after the big press conference at Great American Ball Park on Friday, new Reds owner Bob Castellini has already made a major change at the Cincinnati baseball club by firing General Manager Dan O'Brien, according to the Associated Press and FoxSports.com.

Bill "Seg Man" Dennison just said on 700 WLW that O'Brien is indeed out, and will be replaced by interim GM Brad Kullman. A press conference on the change is coming shortly.

I'll sort of miss Dan O'Brien, who read a long list of names when he was hired (Dan Fawcett, Lloyd Coughee, Jeff Odennwalt, Steve Krause, Randy Ademeack, Richard Keller,... etc...) and also said "A man playing with boys." The double entendres will never end!

The new look at Allen Arena.com!

You may have now seen the beginnings of the next generation of Allen Arena. This is the first major change since going .com in 2002. Why the change? New software, and a new computer - I am now using Adobe GoLive CS2 on my iMac G5. And It's no surprise I've been a fan of Apple products, having talked about the latest iPod models in the past - I just as highly recommend their Macintosh computers to upoad to your iPod from. Contrary to belief, Macs are great for the average consumer - even you're not a designer using Adobe design products. You can surf the Internet quickly, safely, and with less hassle, as Macs don't get the bad viruses, rapid pop-ups, and spyware that slow down otherwise good Windows PCs.
You can even switch to Mac for as little as $500 by using your own existing monitor, keyboard, and mouse on a Mac mini. Or, for great power for the money, the new iMac with new Intel Core Duo processors as low as $1300 - which includes the widescreen LCD monitor, mouse, and keyboard - and twice as fast as the previous iMac G5. And the Macs look better - inside and out!

Steelers off to Super Bowl XL.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are now off to Super Bowl XL in Detroit, after defeating the Broncos in Denver 34-17 - the sixth seed in the AFC defeating the second seed. This comes just one week after defeating the #1 seed Colts at RCA Dome to get there. And if they were to win the big game, it would be quite possibly a storybook season, as Jerome Bettis, who may retire at the end of the season, will get to play what may be the final game of his career - and a big one indeed - in his hometown of Detroit! The fact that the Steelers got past the Colts makes them good enough to win the Vince Lombardi Trophy.

Who will they play? Either Seattle, with the great running back who is Shawn Alexander (from nearby Boone County HS, Kentucky) or Carolina, which has some recent Super Bowl experience and up and coming Nick Goings and powerful Jake Delhomme (enough with the ass tear jokes).

Some photos from Sunday

Back from Chicago... and feeling BLUE in more ways than one.

I'm back at home on my wonderful new non-PC. Saturday I spent the entire day at Marriott's Linconshire Resort for a fun-filled but LONG No Coaster Con. More on NCC in a later post.
Today, I headed downtown and rode the CTA blue line train from a park & ride near O'Hare and went to Sears Tower for the 103rd Skydeck, then rode the Brown Line around the loop, then back to the car on the Blue Line. While not a coaster, it was a neat experience on rails! Right near our station was a restaurant where I had lunch and saw the Colts-Steelers playoff game, where the theme soon turned to "Oh Crap!"
The moral of the story, I practically lost my heart and mind in Chicago today. Yes, the football fans there aren't too happy, either - but most everyone was picking the Colts to win the Super Bowl. Peyton and Marvin (Harrison, and Ben and Jerome played great today. Mike Vanderjagt? See Jay Feely.
If the NFC team - either the Seahawks or Panthers, don't win the Super Bowl, you might want to find the way to your nearest church.
Or just wait until April for baseball season. Redbirds vs. Redlegs at New Busch sounds great now!

Seriously though, visit Chicago sometime soon! There's more to it than Oprah and other fat people.

Navy Pier to add waterpark, coaster, and monorail!

Too bad only the plans were announced this weekend
Chicago Tribune article
I'm sure this will be discussed in the morning at No Coaster Con. Does The Monorail Society know about this?

Reporting from near Chicago, Day 1

I am now in Lincolnshire, NW of downtown Chicago. We came in through some rain and snow, but once we reached the city, it was a beautiful sight seeing Sears Tower and the skyline of the Second City.

I'm here for No Coaster Con 2006, located next door at Marriott's Lincolnshire Resort - for some fun and info, and meeting familiar faces, among enthusiasts and park representatives, including those from nearby Six Flags Great America, my hometown Kings Island, and more... All day! Saturday! Lincolnshire! Marriott! No Coasters!

Sunday before I go back home, I'll head back to Sears Tower for some sight seeing, and will ride the famed CTA subway and elevated trains.

New exciting changes coming...

Please pardon me for a lack of updates lately... I have some new equipment here at The Allen Company World Headquarters here in the northern suburbs on Cincinnati. Do, however, expect some new exciting changes - more photos, features, and more at Allen Arena.

PS... I'm also watching the big football games - the Giants and Tiki "Big Sexy" Barber vs. Jake "Ass Cheek" Delhomme - and the one right nearby - Bengals vs. Steelers. The pickers and pundits are mixed - Many pick the Steelers, notably Rush Limbaugh and Frank Caliendo because they have the postseason experience - But others say the Bengals will win at Paul Brown Stadium today because of Carson, a Willie, and some Johnsons (I'll stop, I want to remain family friendly).

Picks: Giants and Bengals

Also congrats to my successful picks from yesterday - Tom Brady and the Patriots, and Chick McGee's Redskins led by the legendary Joe Gibbs!

The 2006 Prediction List

my apologies if this sounds too optimistic...

Sports
Super Bowl XL - Colts over Seahawks
(The Bengals will make it to the AFC finals, but be defeated by the Colts)
World Series - Cardinals over Yankees
NCAA Basketball - Michigan State
The University of Cincinnati will extend interim basketball coach Andy Kennedy's contract another year.
The OHSAA Football Division I title will be won, for the fifth time in a row, by a Cincinnati area team, either a repeat by St. Xavier, or it will be reclaimed by 2004 winner Colerain. Kerry Cooooommbs!!

Coasters and Parks
Kings Island will finally announced they are adding its long wished for (by fans like me) B&M megacoaster for 2007.
Cedar Point will announce their third Beemer to go in the site of White Water Landing in '07.
Six Flags will either sell or close down at least one of its smaller parks.

Politics
Republicans will keep control of the House and Senate in November, and will see their candidates elected governor in Ohio and Pennsylvania, despite trends moving towards Democrats.
A Bush cabinet member might resign - and quite possibly DNC chairman for Howard Dean after he has his last scream.

Technology
Apple will once again revamp its iPod lineup. A widescreen iPod? I think so. They might also finally bring the G5 processor to its top notebooks, and gain market share - even as Microsoft will release Windows Vista - which seems very similar to Mac OS X Tiger.
The flying car will still be an abstract concept - as well as common courtesy on our roads and highways.

Happy New Year, and the events since then...

If you're writing 2005 on your checks, papers, and such, you might need a little help, it is now the year 2006. So here's what's happened so far...

- Dick Clark returned to ABC Rockin' New Years Eve after suffering a bad stroke in late 2004. He obviously wasn't 100% but I was glad to see him. His voice wavered some - at some points his speech seemed close to normal, but it would deteriorate after a lot of speaking. I won't be surprised if he's back for 2007.

- The four BCS games are over, and congratulations to Ohio State, West Virginia, Penn State, and Texas. Last night's Rose Bowl was simply a classic - and the highlights are available at iTunes. Will Ferrell (USC alum) and Texas sensation Vince Young will be on tonight's Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

- Bill O'Reilly was on The Late Show with David Letterman. I thought this interview proved Letterman's political views - those that side with several of his repeat guests, including Al Franken and Michael Moore. Dave was being ignorant on 'the greeting war,' and revealing his sympathy toward Cindy Sheehan, mother of killed soldier turned anti-war activist, who has made many statements deemed anti-troop and anti-American by many people, including O'Reilly. To be short, Letterman has a right to his liberal views, but I think he could be stunting his ratings against Jay Leno, who has a better record of bringing guests with conservative views - Schwarzenegger and Coulter mainly... I might expand upon the O'Reilly-Letterman interview later, but here's a link to a QuickTime video of it...