"Allen Arena - It thinks it's Babe: Pig in the City!"
"She thinks she's Babe: Pig in the City!" - Milhouse Van Houten, on his string of not so great sequels, when he sees a new tough girl at Springfield Elementary School.
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Title Gag 12/12/05
It's like 'Speed 2,' only with a bus instead of a boat!
- The great Milhouse Van Houten, as the school bus Otto is driving is racing an automobile driven by Marge Simpson, both trying to get to school on time.
The original Speed, for those who don't know '90s action movies, centered around a Los Angeles transit bus rigged with a bomb, in which if the bus dropped below a certain speed, it would explode. An elevator and a Metro subway train were also involved. Speed 2 could have done better if they brought back Keanu Reeves and done on another bus. Or it would have sucked even more.
- The great Milhouse Van Houten, as the school bus Otto is driving is racing an automobile driven by Marge Simpson, both trying to get to school on time.
The original Speed, for those who don't know '90s action movies, centered around a Los Angeles transit bus rigged with a bomb, in which if the bus dropped below a certain speed, it would explode. An elevator and a Metro subway train were also involved. Speed 2 could have done better if they brought back Keanu Reeves and done on another bus. Or it would have sucked even more.
Sunday, December 11, 2005
An Introduction to Front Page Title Gags
On early Thursday Morning when the demolition of Busch Stadium in St. Louis came to a close with the fall of the last section, I changed my page title from "Welcome to Allen Arena!" to "Allen Arena - Remembering Busch Stadium 1966-2005." Having moved on, oddly enough, I decided to change the title back on Saturday.
Or make the front page title a bit fun. On Friday night, "Larry the Cable Guy" was a guest on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Being one of the most famous representatives of redneck (and quite possibly middle American) culture, he brought up a recent trip to The Home Depot, a great wonder for manly men like Larry. Almost a 'city within a city, ' Larry noted a hot dog stand near the front of the store which kept him fed. And then that hot dog eventually needed out. Can't verify if this was true, but he had to settle for one of the toilets in the Plumbing section.
That's why I went with "Allen Arena - The toilets in the Plumbing department of Home Depot are for Display Only!"
It reminds me of an old Best Buy commercial with the theme of trying products out in the store. Easy to do with computers, video game consoles, audio systems, and widescreen HDTVs after hours of hard work. Bad idea when it comes to toilets after some spicy Mexican food.
To keep up your interest, I changed it early this morning to: "Go You Panthers... no, Hear That Bengal Growl... uh, On, Brave Old Army... I'll shut up now."
Yes, I've heard the Elder HS fight song a few times, including on the Bill Cunningham show. One of those great high school football traditions.
The Bengals Growl fight song may have aged, but it's a neat fight song. Sounds better IMO than that who-dey stuff.
And on Saturday, ESPN premiered a new feature film called CodeBreakers, based on the 1950 U.S. Military Academy football team where some cadets are expelled for cheating. In the credits, "On, Brave Old Army Team" becomes the new selection for Karaoke Hour.
I'll be back soon with an update on more title gags. I can't say what they are, but I can say that this is a big week for Simpsons fans like myself. Tonight, Kelsey Grammer is back as Sideshow Bob in a new episode. And Tuesday, Season 7 goes out on DVD!
Or make the front page title a bit fun. On Friday night, "Larry the Cable Guy" was a guest on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Being one of the most famous representatives of redneck (and quite possibly middle American) culture, he brought up a recent trip to The Home Depot, a great wonder for manly men like Larry. Almost a 'city within a city, ' Larry noted a hot dog stand near the front of the store which kept him fed. And then that hot dog eventually needed out. Can't verify if this was true, but he had to settle for one of the toilets in the Plumbing section.
That's why I went with "Allen Arena - The toilets in the Plumbing department of Home Depot are for Display Only!"
It reminds me of an old Best Buy commercial with the theme of trying products out in the store. Easy to do with computers, video game consoles, audio systems, and widescreen HDTVs after hours of hard work. Bad idea when it comes to toilets after some spicy Mexican food.
To keep up your interest, I changed it early this morning to: "Go You Panthers... no, Hear That Bengal Growl... uh, On, Brave Old Army... I'll shut up now."
Yes, I've heard the Elder HS fight song a few times, including on the Bill Cunningham show. One of those great high school football traditions.
The Bengals Growl fight song may have aged, but it's a neat fight song. Sounds better IMO than that who-dey stuff.
And on Saturday, ESPN premiered a new feature film called CodeBreakers, based on the 1950 U.S. Military Academy football team where some cadets are expelled for cheating. In the credits, "On, Brave Old Army Team" becomes the new selection for Karaoke Hour.
I'll be back soon with an update on more title gags. I can't say what they are, but I can say that this is a big week for Simpsons fans like myself. Tonight, Kelsey Grammer is back as Sideshow Bob in a new episode. And Tuesday, Season 7 goes out on DVD!
Thursday, December 08, 2005
It's gone.
As of 1:26 am (12:26 am CT), the last section of historic Busch Stadium in St. Louis has collapsed. By watching on the KSDK live cam, flash bulbs followed by fireworks signified that the old stadium was no more recognizable... and that there would only be ONE Busch Stadium in that area.
Now the task is to get this new Busch Stadium all ready for Opening Day.
And to secure a good team for next season. Fill some of those open positions, and keep the good guys. Got that, Walt? Don't let the good days die with the old stadium.
The closet's fully empty now, it's occupied by none,
I'll draw the drapes, now destiny is done.
- "Closet Chronicles," Kansas
I close my eyes, only for a moment, and the moment's gone
All my dreams, pass before my eyes, in curiosity
Dust in the wind, all they are is dust in the wind
Same old song, just a drop of water in an endless sea
All we do, crumbles to the ground, though we refuse to see
Dust in the wind, All we are is dust in the wind
Don't hang on, nothing lasts forever but the earth and sky
It slips away, and all your money won't another minute buy
Dust in the wind, All we are is dust in the wind
Dust in the wind, Everything is dust in the wind
- "Dust in the Wind," Kansas
Now the task is to get this new Busch Stadium all ready for Opening Day.
And to secure a good team for next season. Fill some of those open positions, and keep the good guys. Got that, Walt? Don't let the good days die with the old stadium.
The closet's fully empty now, it's occupied by none,
I'll draw the drapes, now destiny is done.
- "Closet Chronicles," Kansas
I close my eyes, only for a moment, and the moment's gone
All my dreams, pass before my eyes, in curiosity
Dust in the wind, all they are is dust in the wind
Same old song, just a drop of water in an endless sea
All we do, crumbles to the ground, though we refuse to see
Dust in the wind, All we are is dust in the wind
Don't hang on, nothing lasts forever but the earth and sky
It slips away, and all your money won't another minute buy
Dust in the wind, All we are is dust in the wind
Dust in the wind, Everything is dust in the wind
- "Dust in the Wind," Kansas
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
FINAL Busch Stadium Demolition LIVE!
Right now, KSDK has live streaming video of the final part of the demolition of Busch Stadium in St. Louis. Not as exciting as when I went downtown and saw the implosion of Cincinnati's Riverfront Stadium almost three years ago, but still a memorable yet hard moment...
KSDK live demolition video
The time is now 10:15 pm eastern (9:15 central in St. Louis). Just a few hours later, expect the link (and stadium) to be gone. Tomorrow morning, the only Busch Stadium will be the new stadium next door, set to open in April, when the Cardinals host Milwaukee Brewers.
Goodbye Busch, I love and miss you dearly.
KSDK live demolition video
The time is now 10:15 pm eastern (9:15 central in St. Louis). Just a few hours later, expect the link (and stadium) to be gone. Tomorrow morning, the only Busch Stadium will be the new stadium next door, set to open in April, when the Cardinals host Milwaukee Brewers.
Goodbye Busch, I love and miss you dearly.
Happy Birthday to me...
I'm 24 today.
But that's the good news about today.
Busch Stadium is almost gone:
I'll be surprised if this last section is standing tomorrow.
But that's the good news about today.
Busch Stadium is almost gone:
I'll be surprised if this last section is standing tomorrow.
Saturday, December 03, 2005
State Champions!
Tonight, the St. Xavier Bombers of Cincinnati won the OHSAA Division I State football title in Canton's Fawcett Stadium, defeating the Washington Tigers from nearby Massillon, 24-17, closing a memorable, 15-game undefeated season.
This was St. Xavier's first successful run for the championship. Their last finals appearance came in 2001, when they lost in Canton to St. Ignatius Wildcats from Cleveland. At least Brian Kosmac was happy.
This is also the fourth straight title for a Cincinnati area Division I team, starting with Elder in 2002 and 2003, and Colerain in 2004, and five straight appearances of area teams.
So congratulations to the many students, players, parents, and alumni of St. Xavier High School, especially alums like Hamilton County Prosecutor Joseph "TNT' Deters, and good friend and coaster nut Brad Ruwe.
I'd also like to pass along that another tri-state team was also victorious in their state title run. The Newport Central Catholic HS Thoroughbreds won the Kentucky Class A Championship, defeating Mayfield 42-7 at Papa John's Cardinal Stadium in Louisville. This is NewCath's second successful run, the first since 1984, and 6th of their state appearances. The Breds close out the season 13-2.
This was St. Xavier's first successful run for the championship. Their last finals appearance came in 2001, when they lost in Canton to St. Ignatius Wildcats from Cleveland. At least Brian Kosmac was happy.
This is also the fourth straight title for a Cincinnati area Division I team, starting with Elder in 2002 and 2003, and Colerain in 2004, and five straight appearances of area teams.
So congratulations to the many students, players, parents, and alumni of St. Xavier High School, especially alums like Hamilton County Prosecutor Joseph "TNT' Deters, and good friend and coaster nut Brad Ruwe.
I'd also like to pass along that another tri-state team was also victorious in their state title run. The Newport Central Catholic HS Thoroughbreds won the Kentucky Class A Championship, defeating Mayfield 42-7 at Papa John's Cardinal Stadium in Louisville. This is NewCath's second successful run, the first since 1984, and 6th of their state appearances. The Breds close out the season 13-2.
Chaz Luken's Words of Wisdom
This past Wednesday, November 30, 2005, was the last day on the job for Charles J. Luken, better known as Chaz, as the Mayor of the City of Cincinnati. Chaz spent 12 years as Mayor (1984-1990, 1999-2005) and in the past few years, had a lot of great things to say. Here's some of the best of Chaz, as heard on the Bill Cunningham show:
"Let's not wait for Hell to freeze over here."
"I brought you into this world, I can take you out!"
"Ignorance is no defense."
"Don't tell anybody, but she's not a very good cook!"
"My mother's on crack!"
"I have to give you a few more soundbytes before I get out of office, so that I can live in infamy!"
"It's not my jurisdiction."
"That's true."
"I got you started in this business, I can take you out, Willie!"
"You’re going to get a tongue-whipping!"
"It's time for it to stop!"
"You got that taping thing going on, that I always hear what I say later?"
"I’ve got this plantar wart I have in my foot."
"WHAT?!"
"We’re going to get a bus, and some 40s!"
"You always make it sound like there's some of payoff here!"
"I could not be more excited!"
"Be careful what you wish for!"
"Yes."
"You know that?"
"I would do it every year!"
"That’s right!"
"It’s scary, isn’t it?!"
"In this particular case, you seem to be wavering a bit."
"I think I’m going to leave my keys on the desk!"
"I’m just as horrified about it as everybody else!"
"Wal-Mart can track a pair of socks, and you guys can’t track a train car that’s got a dangerous chemical in it, for a half a year?!"
"I love everybody!"
"I think it's time that we blow something up!"
"I picked up a woman at a bar, took her home and had sex with her, and it may be more detailed than that."
"Let's not wait for Hell to freeze over here." "I brought you into this world, I can take you out!"
"Ignorance is no defense."
"Don't tell anybody, but she's not a very good cook!"
"My mother's on crack!"
"I have to give you a few more soundbytes before I get out of office, so that I can live in infamy!"
"It's not my jurisdiction."
"That's true."
"I got you started in this business, I can take you out, Willie!"
"You’re going to get a tongue-whipping!"
"It's time for it to stop!"
"You got that taping thing going on, that I always hear what I say later?"
"I’ve got this plantar wart I have in my foot."
"WHAT?!"
"We’re going to get a bus, and some 40s!"
"You always make it sound like there's some of payoff here!"
"I could not be more excited!"
"Be careful what you wish for!"
"Yes."
"You know that?"
"I would do it every year!"
"That’s right!"
"It’s scary, isn’t it?!"
"In this particular case, you seem to be wavering a bit."
"I think I’m going to leave my keys on the desk!"
"I’m just as horrified about it as everybody else!"
"Wal-Mart can track a pair of socks, and you guys can’t track a train car that’s got a dangerous chemical in it, for a half a year?!"
"I love everybody!"
"I think it's time that we blow something up!"
"I picked up a woman at a bar, took her home and had sex with her, and it may be more detailed than that."
Friday, December 02, 2005
RCA Dome noise: loud Colts fans, or hot air?
In Thursday's Indianapolis Star, "The Dan Patrick Show" on ESPN Radio was questioning how the noise in the RCA Dome got so loud during Monday night's home game against the Steelers. Some were asking if some of this noise was piped in through the sound system, which, if true, is a violation of NFL rules.
First, having been there in person, I seriously doubt that. Yes, there were some times when the place was somewhat quieter, when the Colts had the ball, especially during a large lead. The loudest points happened prior to kickoff, during player introductions, and the playing of the Monday Night Football intro video. And being a fully enclosed domed stadium also added to keeping the noise in and up - almost to the noise level of the Van Halen concert I went to last year.
Second, I must question if such 'piping of noise' was done by the Houston Astros this past season at Minute Maid Park, when they had the roof closed, especially against the Cardinals in the NLCS. Fortunately, two guys shut them up: Albert Pujols and Bud Selig (who had them open the roof in the World Series). The White Sox would get the title this year.
That, or John Murtha is a Steelers fan.
But I can't me much happier for the Colts right now. I may live in an area where they're about to introduce another goddamn Who-Dey Jungle song, but I do live in a country where you can support any team you like. No problem with those yellow Terrible Towels flying around in a sea of blue in the beloved Circle City.
First, having been there in person, I seriously doubt that. Yes, there were some times when the place was somewhat quieter, when the Colts had the ball, especially during a large lead. The loudest points happened prior to kickoff, during player introductions, and the playing of the Monday Night Football intro video. And being a fully enclosed domed stadium also added to keeping the noise in and up - almost to the noise level of the Van Halen concert I went to last year.
Second, I must question if such 'piping of noise' was done by the Houston Astros this past season at Minute Maid Park, when they had the roof closed, especially against the Cardinals in the NLCS. Fortunately, two guys shut them up: Albert Pujols and Bud Selig (who had them open the roof in the World Series). The White Sox would get the title this year.
That, or John Murtha is a Steelers fan.
But I can't me much happier for the Colts right now. I may live in an area where they're about to introduce another goddamn Who-Dey Jungle song, but I do live in a country where you can support any team you like. No problem with those yellow Terrible Towels flying around in a sea of blue in the beloved Circle City.
Dave and Oprah: The Aftermath.
Last night, Thursday, Oprah Winfrey made her legendary and historic appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman. One of the biggest surprises is that Oprah claims there never has been a feud, and that the Uma-Oprah thing from when Dave last hosted the Academy Awards was actually funny, as she brought an autographed picture of her and Uma Thurman to Dave, with a purple frame! After last night's "Super Bowl of Love", Letterman walked Winfrey over to her theater across the street in a neat public appearance that drew tons of flashes, as it should have.
"Oprah is our friend."
"Oprah is our friend."
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Get Ready, America!
It's only minutes away! Tune to your local CBS affiliate NOW! (Ch. 12 here in Cincinnati) This is a major event you can't miss, as Oprah Winfrey will be in the Ed Sullivan Theater to meet David Letterman!
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
There's got to be a morning after...
I promised a photo update from last night's big Colts-Steelers game at RCA Dome, with no singing of a 70's disaster song at karaoke like the one nerd on Family Guy...
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
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
Those still hoping for a perfect Colts season can sleep tonight.
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...
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...
Oddly enough, there's a ballpark, the Indians' Victory Field. Before this place was built, they played in Bush Stadium. (spelling correct)
In the distance is White River State Park, home of the NCAA Hall of Champions.
GO COLTS!
Busch Stadium Taer-Down Update
Just as a reminder, this is from a webcam in St. Louis. I am currently in Indianapolis, getting ready for tonight's big Monday Night Football game at RCA Dome with the Colts and Steelers:
Eventually, though, RCA Dome will be torn down by the end of the decade after Indiana Stadium is completed...
Eventually, though, RCA Dome will be torn down by the end of the decade after Indiana Stadium is completed...
Sunday, November 27, 2005
Seattle Monorail accident
Either John Candy was hired to drive (a la Planes Trains & Automobiles), or a Seattle landmark had another serious (yet unfortunate) blemish... Saturday night, the two Alweg trains on the historic 1962 Seattle Monorail had a side-scraping collision with each other at the Westlake downtown station.
The Monorail Society story
The Monorail Society story
Taer It Down: Busch Stadium Saturday 11/26
Sorry to dampen your spirits some after talking about WinterFest. Then again, Ebeneezer Scrooge must be having a blast all the way from The Old Country 1800s to St. Louis 2005.
Trip Report: PKI WinterFest 11/25/05
On Friday, November 25, I had the opportunity to check out the return of WinterFest at Kings Island. The park promised this would be an extravagant event, and they sure did deliver!
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
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 great David Letterman once said: "It ain't Oprah 'til it's Oprah." After so much wishing, so much time, and even an unsuccessful effort to appear on The Oprah Winfrey Show in Chicago, our dreams will come true on Thursday December 1.
The following comes from the Late Show with David Letterman's website on CBS.com:
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
The following is from John Keeter "Shaggy," a good friend and ACE Representative on today's shattering news:
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.
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