A focus on the built environment, especially cities, architecture, transportation, and politics. A place where common sense may be taboo.
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
There's got to be a morning after...
For some reason, one of my cats just loves the Arby's Oven Mitt. Tom Arnold, who voiced the Mitt in the TV ads, was on with Live with Regis and Kelly Lee this morning, along with former Creed lead singer Scott Stapp, who has his first solo album out now.
The Steelers' offensive line, led by Ben Roethlisberger
Peyton took all the time he needed...
There's just one team left to try to beat...
I'll let you read the game summary somewhere else yourself, but here's how it ended.
And we'll close with a taer-down. KMOV St. Louis Stadium Cam
Indianapolis Perfection: Colts 26 - Steelers 7
Tonight at the RCA Dome before an in-house audience of 57,000, and millions more on ABC, the undefeated Colts went at it against the 7-3 Steelers. Pre-game, the place was just plain loud.
The guy that does the "Real Men of Genius" commercials for a certain light beer from St. Louis did a special one for the Colts.
Trace Adkins, country star, sang the national anthem, and a bald eagle flew through the building at the end.
And pretty much from the start, the Colts put points on the board with a Peyton Manning to Marvin Harrison throw for a touchdown. Not long after, the Steelers responded with some good defense and offense, and became competitive at one point, 10-7 Colts. However, a barely missed field goal by Steelers kicker Chris Gardocki, and some just plain better offense and defense by the Colts gave Indy the controls into the second half, where the Steelers could never respond. Mike Vanderjagt still rules as a kicker, just about the opposite results from the Giants' Jay Feely in Seattle on Sunday.
With 5 minutes to go in the 4th quarter, many fans, mostly Steelers backers, headed for the exits, resulting in a lot of cheers from the predominantly blue crowd, even "Here we go, Steelers..."
Leaving a little later than most fans, I might have passed a few celebrites in the Convention Center hallways, like Boomer Esiason, former Bengals quarterback and CBS TV/radio analyst, and Kato Kaelin from O.J. Simpson trial fame (he did part of a recent game show special I saw on GSN, hosting the "Dumb Blondes" portions).
Part of the news in town was the unveiling of a special Indiana Colts license plate, that will go towards construction of Indiana Stadium to the south of RCA Dome, now underway. I enjoy visiting the RCA dome because, well, it's a neat place to see a game, it's got great home advantage noise, and is pleasant because, well, it's indoors. I only spent 10 or less seconds outside leaving the Dome to head to my hotel, connected to the Dome and Indiana Convention Center via skywalk. Indiana Stadium, with larger capacity, all individual seats, more restrooms, a retractable roof, and escalators, will blow the Dome away in a few years.
In the morning, after some sleep, I'll put up a few photos. Indianapolis is a great city...
Monday, November 28, 2005
The REAL view from the hotel room in Indy...
Busch Stadium Taer-Down Update
Sunday, November 27, 2005
Seattle Monorail accident
The Monorail Society story
Taer It Down: Busch Stadium Saturday 11/26
Trip Report: PKI WinterFest 11/25/05
Upon entry to the park, the most notable attractions are the skating rink on the Royal Fountain, and the use of the Eiffel Tower as a Christmas tree, both returning from the original WinterFest.
A welcome "change" is the new decorations, food options, and live entertainment in the Festhaus - but more like what was offered at the last WinterFest. Full dinners, like turkey, lasagna, and roast beef were available, while LaRosa's pizza was also available. Gone are the large projection screens, replaced with a center stage for live musical and talent entertainment and festive banners in the ceiling. An old stained glass window has been revealed once again, and illuminated. Graeter's ice cream and Busken bakery goods are also available inside.
Another dining option is available at Bubba Gump's Shrimp Shack, which offers part of its dining area enclosed, as well as some "tacky" food offerings.
The Paramount Story is home to the Nickelodeon Tree Lot, where you can have your picture taken with characters like SpongeBob, Dora the Explorer, and Little Bill. Like before, the Coney Carousel is open.
New to WinterFest is the illumination show in Rivertown, which has great light effects synchronized to music. Also, the White Christmas Express is a wonderful train ride that includes some nice postcard displays, but adds a nice element of live entertainment not only in the station, but on board during the train that takes you back to the 1940s.
The last days of Hanna-Barbera land are during WinterFest, including operation of the H-B Carousel and Top Cat's Taxi Jam (the only coaster available), as well as Scooby-Doo and the Haunted Castle (which will remain as is next season). You can meet Santa in the Animation Station building until Christmas.
You might be a little disappointed if you miss out on WinterFest's shows. The main act, Santa's Toy Factory, goes on in the Paramount Theatre. Be sure to pick up reservation tickets for shows to the left of the Front Gate, before the Theatre, to ensure seating to this fantastic and timeless show.
Make time to see the nightly lighting of the Eiffel Tower Tree at 6 p.m. It's surely part of the WinterFest magic, and I think it's better than ever with the Tower's new lighting effects, which I hope to see added to summer operation (minus the Chirstmas lights).
The Home for the Holidays Parade begins at 7:30 in the Nickelodeon/Hanna-Barbera area, and terminates at The Beast. Be sure to look for an old favorite attraction among the roving entertainers and floats!
Before leaving, don't miss Scrooge on International Street, next to Starbucks Coffee. The things he says might get normal park employees fired (it's still clean humor, but not the warm fun found at most holiday shows).
But before I left for the night, I took the the skating rink. I liked the availability of hockey skates for rental (unlike some rinks I have been to). The $3 rental fee was very reasonable, but the $7 rink fee was a little steep, but it's not too often you get to skate in the middle of Kings Island!
Overall, I would give WinterFest an 'A' grade. There are a few things I might want to change, inclding more lighting in the trees. While the decision to not accept season passes made sense, in order to keep the event's experience enjoable, I would offer some deep discounts on select nights, or maybe even a couple of free passholder nights, depending how attendance this season goes. Surprisingly, there was little or no park/coaster/ride merchandise usually found during the regular season - something I would honestly expect some of, whether a Beast shirt, postcards, or some MINI Cooper related items from Italian Job.
In close, if you've loved visiting Kings Island or love holiday events, you must not miss WinterFest!
IF YOU GO:
WinterFest at Kings Island
Admission: Advance purchase of tickets is recommended, because some nights may sell out.
You can purchase specific day tickets onlike at PKI.com for $17.99.
Good any day tickets are also availabe for $19.99 online, at Kroger or Blockbuster.
Tickets are available at the gate for $24.99 (when available).
When: Fridays-Sundays beginning November 25, as well as during the week starting December 19 (closed Dec. 24, 25) through New Year's Eve (December 31.)
Hours: 4-10 p.m (4-9 p.m. Sundays and Dec. 31)
Information: pki.com - also check out pkicentral.com
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
"It's Oprah!"
The following comes from the Late Show with David Letterman's website on CBS.com:
Queen of Daytime To Make Her First LATE SHOW Appearance on Thursday, December 1
Oprah Winfrey, whose renown as a television host, producer and publisher has made her one of the most recognized and admired public figures worldwide, will make her first appearance on the LATE SHOW with DAVID LETTERMAN, Thursday, December 1st. Ms. Winfrey, who appeared twice in the 1980s on NBC's "Late Night with David Letterman," has never been a guest on CBS's LATE SHOW.
Ms. Winfrey will make her LATE SHOW appearance the same night as the red-carpet premiere for the Broadway musical "The Color Purple," which she is producing. The theatrical production is based on the Alice Walker novel, which also yielded the 1985 film of the same title, for which Winfrey was nominated for an Academy Award as Best Supporting Actress.
"What a big night that is going to be - not only for us, not only for Oprah, but for Broadway," said Letterman during a taping of his show this evening. "You have the big 'Color Purple' Broadway opening, and then right across the street here in this theater, you have Oprah appearing here. I mean, that's what Broadway is all about - it's a street of dreams."
Letterman, who in recent years has made no secret of his longstanding desire to have Winfrey as a guest, said, "This just gives you an idea of what a big, big star this really is. She's huge. Put bygones behind us, the water under the bridge, over the dam, wherever water goes - standing in your basement - she's going to be here on this show and it's going to be fantastic."
Monday, November 21, 2005
Jeff Siebert resigns from PKI
It is bittersweet that I report the news that Jeffrey Siebert has resigned his postion of Marketing and Communications Manager at Paramount's Kings Island.Jeff has been with PKI since 2000, and has been an absolute staple at PKI. Jeff's passion for PKI as well as his attention to overall detail has help guide the park into a much improved, guest focused experience. He will no doubt be missed by his colleagues, coworkers and friends.
Jeff has been one of the most effective supporters of Coaster Enthusiasts and fans of the park. He truly is a great fellow that has left his amazing touch upon those of us lucky enough to share in various festivities, media events and enthusiast events at PKI. I cannot think of someone that is more generous with their time and efforts than he. I'll forever think of his smiling face whenever I enter PKI.
To me, Jeff is PKI. And the friendship that I have with he and his family is probably the greatest reason that PKI continues to mean so much to me.
But don't fret! All is not lost!
The good news is that Jeff will be assuming a position with Schlitterbahn Parks based in Galveston, TX. Jeff will begin work with the the world's most prominent waterpark company on Dec 7th.
Jeff's final day at PKI will be Dec 2nd. His final hoorah, will be this week's Winterfest opening. I cannot think of a better way to send him on his new adventure. It will be a party to end all parties.
On a side note, Jeff has been one of the most dear friends I could ask for. Aside from just being a tremendous buddy, I owe about 90% of my understanding and knowledge about PKI to him. I wish he and his family much luck in Texas.
No worries buddy, I'll be visiting soon ;-)
Shaggy
I second Shaggy's comments. I hope to get to WinterFest before he leaves to see him one last time. Kings Island won't be the same without him, but I definitely wish him the best of luck with Schlitterbahn.
Saturday, November 19, 2005
Preview: TR: Cleveland 11/17-18
- What is weirder than naming something 'Quicken Loans Arena'? 'Allen Arena' going there...
- The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame - I could see it out my hotel window, so after my night's stay, I went on in and spent much more time than I ever imagined (no, really, it 'rocked!') Much better idea than some 'guilt' museum located on some other waterfront.
I definitely have to say that Cleveland is an interesting town that I don't know by heart (as of yet.) In some ways, I think Cleveland is not a part of Ohio with some of its 'huge city' features. In other ways, Cincinnati seems to be the town that's a little "out of state" because part of its metro area (and airport) are actually in another state!
I'll have the trip report over this weekend, and before I bring it...
GO MICHIGAN!
GO COLTS!
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
Monday, November 14, 2005
Busch Update before bedtime
SPORTS!!! - OHSAA getting better...
The OHSAA has decided to relocate the regional Division I final between Cincinnati St. Xavier and Huber Heights Wayne from Middletown’s Barnitz Stadium to Nippert Stadium at the University of Cincinnati. Game time will be at 1:00 p.m.
That is the same time as a big game taking place at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor. D’OH!!!!
Sunday, November 13, 2005
Busch Update
If you still want to see the modern architectural marvel that is (or was) Busch Stadium, get yourself over to St. Louis pretty darn soon.
Within the past week, one quater of the beloved stadium has disappeared.
BUT... this isn't all sadness. At least this gives them a better chance to finish the new Busch Stadium - hopefully even before the end of spring 2006!
SPORTS!!! - OHSAA still needs help
This is not necessarily about why the state championships of football remain in the Canton/Massillon area, of how Northeast Ohio isn’t exactly Central Ohio, why some now defunct superstadiums (Cleveland Municipal, Riverfront, Busch) are still better facilities than Fawcett is, and why most fans throughout the state could care less about the history of the professional level.
It’s about how 35,000 show up to see one game in one of the best (IMO) football facilities ever built, Paul brown Stadium (and combined 42,000 fans for two games yesterday) – and yet the next round is held at some 11,000 seat place in Middletown. Even the officials here in Cincinnati didn’t estimate how many could show up to see St. Xavier play Colerain on a very nice day in a world-class stadium, as the several ticket windows, even if almost all in use, couldn’t keep pace with the ticket demand. At around 6:00, things got so crazy that police decided to open the floodgates to fans – even those without tickets.
As the game was in session in the first quarter, fans were seen entering sections in the fully-cushioned Club Level. Generally, unless the Sideline/Plaza level bowl was full, the upper Club and Canopy levels were closed off. And so, I attempted to make my way up to the Club Level via the west elevators, stadium staff informed us they were coming up to shut down the Club Level. So I sat elsewhere.
Then, not later on, I saw the Club fill up later on in the first quarter, again, but only because the latecoming Bomber fans were still pouring in. And so, both the east and west club areas were open - but not the Club Lounges! This meant that fans, if they wanted to get to the better, more central club seats, they had to climb around separator railings to access these seats – one safety hazard. Plus, if people wanted to get to the club lounges to use restrooms or, better yet, evacuate in case of an emergency, the doors were locked – yet another safety hazard. If stadium officials didn’t want lowly prep football fans in the Club area, they should have directed us to the Canopy level and opened up the escalators. Guess this proves some people are slower learners than others
That, or some of the people behind Kings Island’s massive ticket giveaway for closing weekend have new jobs at the home of the Bengals.
I can’t go well in-depth now, but I will say that the game itself was memorable. The two teams, the Colerain Cardinals and St. Xavier Bombers, managed to score only 6 points apiece in regulaton, only through field goals. And so, Colerain got a field goal in their downs allotted. But as soon as the Bombers got the ball – they scored. Lightning fast. It was so fast, there was some movement in the end zone. And then the field erupted into a show of blue.
Colerain was an outstanding team, as they were last year. They just couldn’t get past St. X this year (Colerain lost in the first game of the season as well, to the Bombers, 7-0), otherwise going undefeated. The 12-0 St. X team now faces Huber Heights Wayne, who got past the Centerville Elks 29-28 in the first game of the doubleheader. Wayne’s only loss was to Elder in the season opener.
Maybe after finding out how popular high school football in this region, the OHSAA will find a more appropriate venue. Like they have last year, such as the renovated Yager Stadium at Miami University in Oxford. It’s as neutral as Middletown Barnitz, but simply bigger and better. If they move the game to Yager (or better yet, Nippert at UC) I’ll go on Saturday. As long as it doesn’t interfere with the Michigan-Ohio State game. GO BLUE!
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Busch Stadium Demolition Update
From the KMOV Stadium Cam, a great portion of the southwest corner of Busch Stadium (the one with the white roof and arches) has already been taken down.
This shot comes from KMOV Ch. 4's helicopter. The old stadium was getting in the way of the new one!
The Pavilion Hotel towers (foreground) were a great neighbor to Busch Stadium, which is fading away into the future to make way for a new Busch Stadium and future downtown development.
Chris Carpenter wins 2005 NL Cy Young!
For some odd reason, he wasn’t ESPN’s pick…
The Astros’ Roger Clemens had a lower ERA but fewer wins than Carpenter, and like the article said above, Dontrelle Willis of the Marlins. Although this didn’t turn out to be the storybook year that Cardinals fans had hoped for (Busch Stadium being demolished without a World Series appearance or title in its final season), it’s a wonderful recognition for an otherwise memorable season.
And many experts are picking Carpenter’s great teammate Albert Pujols to win the National League’s MVP award! Again, Congratulations to Chris Carpenter!
Monday, November 07, 2005
Taering Down Busch Stadium...
But getting it to go would not be easy. Honestly, they must have used the same wrecking ball that was used to demolish “Taer it Down: The Ride” (better known as Hercules) at Dorney Park. The huge but critically bashed wood coaster came down pretty easily to make way for a much more worthwhile replacement in a B&M Floorless steel looper. The iconic St. Louis stadium, however, was built with thick concrete, especially its signature canopy, which the wrecking ball had some problems breaking into, so shortly after several drops and swings, they switched from the small size, and possibly to a more appropriate sized ball. Otherwise, they might have to prepare Edward Jones Dome for baseball, and in a few years, renovate the new Busch Stadium before the old one is finally cleared away.
So today was a symbolic day for baseball fans, even though barely any damage was done, sightseers could barely see anything, and St. Louis residents experienced a little Dr. Phil withdrawal.
On a side note, playing the Patriots in Foxboro… GO COLTS!
Thursday, November 03, 2005
Cedar Point announces Skyhawk, lower prices for 2006.
The flat ride will have a cycle capacity of 40, an hourly capacity of 800. The structure will stand 103' tall, and the ride arms will reach a height of 125' during the two minute cycle. This is the park's second S&S Power ride, the first being the four-tower Power Tower, which debuted at Cedar Point in 1998 at over 300 tall. That ride, like Skyhawk, uses compressed air to give the ride its power.
Admission to Cedar Point will be a little more affordable next year. For the first time since they introduced a pay-one-price ticket plan in 1970, general one-day admission will be lowered by $5 from $44.95 to $39.95. Junior (under 48") and Senior (Age 62 and up) pricing, which was reduced to $9.95 in August, will stay in place for 2006. Prices for Starlight (evening admission) and Ride & Slide (two day, two park combo) tickets have also been reduced.
The most interesting price reduction, however, is within the park. In 2005, Cotton Candy was $3. The same stick in 2006? 25 cents! Other park foods may, and hopefully will be, reduced in price. Hopefully lower soda prices (preferably less than $2 for regular size/bottle) will follow.