http://www.pkicentral.com/forums/index.php?s=&showtopic=8698&view=findpost&p=140581
A visitor to Canada's Wonderland, who was there for a job interview, noticed some changes underway.
He claims that the "Paramount Canada's Wonderland" signs have been removed, and replaced with those saying "Cedar Fair presents Canada's Wonderland." Also, there is some renovation work going on throughout the park, inside and out, and that some ride names have been changed. Lastly, while Nickelodeon characters will remain as expected, apparently the Hanna-Barbera characters and areas are being removed and changed, to replaced with the Peanuts.
Because there isn't photographic evidence, nor multiple sources, this information can't be confirmed. But, knowing that Cedar Fair is in charge, expect changes to take place. The changes that this visitor listed, to me, are a bit believable.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
State releases Son of Beast report; Loop GONE
From the desk of Maureen Kaiser:
You can read the Department of Agriculture's final report here.
(WCPO: Son Of Beast Accident Blamed On Design Flaw)
While I'll miss the signature, unique loop, hopefully the new trains will give a much better overall ride experience. (image courtesy CYoung2003) "BEER!"
Son of Beast Statement
12.13.06
The State of Ohio’s Department of Agriculture released today its final report detailing the outcome of the extensive Son of Beast inspection. The report reaffirms initial indications that the incident was an unforeseen single event failure.
We will now focus our energies on the appropriate and necessary changes needed to reopen the ride in 2007. In addition to reinforcing the physical structure of the ride, we plan to remove the loop. Taking this extra step enables us to use lighter trains, which will reduce the load and lead to a more comfortable ride experience.
We are making good progress on Son of Beast and are fully committed to reopening the ride in 2007.
You can read the Department of Agriculture's final report here.
(WCPO: Son Of Beast Accident Blamed On Design Flaw)
While I'll miss the signature, unique loop, hopefully the new trains will give a much better overall ride experience. (image courtesy CYoung2003) "BEER!"
Viral Video: Problems on Indy's West Side
WARNING - NOT SAFE FOR WORK
This video contains material that may be offensive, play at your own risk.
The traffic reporter at WRTV Channel 6 in Indianapolis shows us that, yes, there really are some problems involving more than traffic on the city's west side.
This video contains material that may be offensive, play at your own risk.
The traffic reporter at WRTV Channel 6 in Indianapolis shows us that, yes, there really are some problems involving more than traffic on the city's west side.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Something Going On at Kings Island...
My friends at PKICentral have posted some aerial pictures of Kings Island recently taken, that show a great deal of land clearing behind Flight of Fear. The site seems to have a rectangular shape, similar to that of the X-Flight coaster that will be removed from Geauga Lake.
One of the five pictures also shows Son of Beast, which is undergoing some winter work, near the end of the ride's circuit - and the coaster's vertical loop also standing.
However, please note that the pictures were taken on December 3, more than a week ago. This is because the PKICentral staff waited until they got approval from Kings Island to post the pictures. This could also mean that the Son of Beast's loop may be gone after all...
(UPDATE) KI has confirmed that the SOB loop has been removed!
One of the five pictures also shows Son of Beast, which is undergoing some winter work, near the end of the ride's circuit - and the coaster's vertical loop also standing.
However, please note that the pictures were taken on December 3, more than a week ago. This is because the PKICentral staff waited until they got approval from Kings Island to post the pictures. This could also mean that the Son of Beast's loop may be gone after all...
(UPDATE) KI has confirmed that the SOB loop has been removed!
Promotions Gone Bad
It's not like a sports team has pulled off a promotion that was either tasteless, or just plain backfired.
Disco Demolition Night. Cheap Beer Night. Tonya Harding Baseball Bat Day. Nude viewing area (enclosed, tinted tent). Now, Big Ben Motorcycle Helmet Night.
The Cincinnati Cyclones of the ECHL are back, and in their return season, they've decided to sink to a new low to get fans. Yes, I know that the purpose of the promotion is motorcycle safety, and it's unfortunate that too many riders have lost their lives because they weren't wearing a helmet, Ben Roethlisberger himself made the foolish mistake in not wearing one himself.
But am I the only one who doesn't find this promotion funny? I felt very bad when I heard of Ben's accident - learning that he could have very well died from his injuries. I do not wish injury on anyone*. I have a feeling that partisan Bengals fans think this is a fun way to "get even" with the Steelers. However, I'm sure that the Bengals would NEVER try this kind of promotion, fearing a PR nightmare and/or serious fines by the NFL.
To those who like this promotion: should I suggest that the Pittsburgh Penguins have Carson Palmer Surgery Night?
*I'm willing to make exceptions, such as those who blow up innocent people, skyscrapers, buildings, etc.
Disco Demolition Night. Cheap Beer Night. Tonya Harding Baseball Bat Day. Nude viewing area (enclosed, tinted tent). Now, Big Ben Motorcycle Helmet Night.
The Cincinnati Cyclones of the ECHL are back, and in their return season, they've decided to sink to a new low to get fans. Yes, I know that the purpose of the promotion is motorcycle safety, and it's unfortunate that too many riders have lost their lives because they weren't wearing a helmet, Ben Roethlisberger himself made the foolish mistake in not wearing one himself.
But am I the only one who doesn't find this promotion funny? I felt very bad when I heard of Ben's accident - learning that he could have very well died from his injuries. I do not wish injury on anyone*. I have a feeling that partisan Bengals fans think this is a fun way to "get even" with the Steelers. However, I'm sure that the Bengals would NEVER try this kind of promotion, fearing a PR nightmare and/or serious fines by the NFL.
To those who like this promotion: should I suggest that the Pittsburgh Penguins have Carson Palmer Surgery Night?
*I'm willing to make exceptions, such as those who blow up innocent people, skyscrapers, buildings, etc.
Great Wolf Lodge next to Kings Island ready to go
The abysmal time of year, better known as winter is on its way. Miss the warm weather, when you could ride the waves, slip down a cool and exciting slide, or just relax in the water? Very soon, people like me won't have to go far to get a fix...
The new Great Wolf Lodge in Mason, next to Kings Island, is all but complete, and some lucky guests, like contractors and employees, as well as friends and family, got the chance to experience the indoor waterpark's "dry run." The Lodge is set to open this Thursday, Dec. 14, according to their website.
Check out these photos taken by PKICentral.com - this place has some of the most impressive water attractions in the Cincinnati area - 11 slides, including a water coaster, bowl slide, plus an indoor wave pool, lazy river, and more. Catch is, you have to reserve a room to enjoy the water park. Rooms at the Great Wolf range from $180 to $600 a night, depending on room type and date - and include 4 waterpark passes.
The new Great Wolf Lodge in Mason, next to Kings Island, is all but complete, and some lucky guests, like contractors and employees, as well as friends and family, got the chance to experience the indoor waterpark's "dry run." The Lodge is set to open this Thursday, Dec. 14, according to their website.
Check out these photos taken by PKICentral.com - this place has some of the most impressive water attractions in the Cincinnati area - 11 slides, including a water coaster, bowl slide, plus an indoor wave pool, lazy river, and more. Catch is, you have to reserve a room to enjoy the water park. Rooms at the Great Wolf range from $180 to $600 a night, depending on room type and date - and include 4 waterpark passes.
Viral Video: But... He's Gay!
To get some activity here, I'm going to post a cool or funny video every day or so...
How 'bout this Freudian slip... who has she been hanging out with?!
How 'bout this Freudian slip... who has she been hanging out with?!
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Geauga Lake to get smaller.
Ever since Kings Island closed for the season in late October, there was some speculation that Cedar Fair's "new" Ohio park would be getting a "new" coaster.
At the same time, it was noted that the faltering Geauga Lake, also a property of Cedar Fair located in Ohio, would be undergoing some restructuring. The park's PR representative, Lexi Robinson had been let go, with folks from Cedar Point assuming her duties. Attendance has been stagnant compared to 2005, even with expansion of Wildwater Kingdom. In addition, the Hurricane Hannah's park lay abandoned, the Belaire Express monorail was shut down, and Steel Venom had a serious mechanical issue later on in the season that shut it down earlier.
This has led to rumors that X-Flight, the park's newest coaster, installed in 2001, would be dismantled and sent to another park. It looked more likely as some electrical fixtures were being removed, especially lighting on the lift hill. It also looked suspicious that a surveying company - from Milford, OH, not far from KI - was spotted in X-Flight's perimeter. At the same time, the surveyors could have been there just for utility work going on along Aurora Rd - and that the electrical work was just upgrades, including installing an on-ride photo system. But ORP work in November?
Today, the Cleveland Plain Dealer, and park spokesman Bryan Edwards, confirmed half of the rumors. X-Flight will no longer be operating at Geauga Lake, and will be dismantled and relocated to another park. But which park?
Which park will be getting a used Vekoma flying coaster?
Many rumors have stated that it's headed south for Kings Island, probably next to Flight of Fear. But would they really send a used coaster to a park that is one of Cedar Fair's biggest and highest attended parks? Have they even broken ground yet?
Other possibilities include Michigan's Adventure, which is growing and has not seen a new coaster since around 1999 - a Vekoma flyer might be the type of coaster its patrons have been wanting.
There's even the crazy rumor that it's headed for Great America, which built the world's first flying coaster - but later sent it across the country to Carowinds in 2004. It was removed from GA to make way for Boomerang Bay, which better suited the park's family audience, not to mention the lack of room to grow the park out in Silicon Valley. Now, the 49ers want to build a football stadium next door!
Also, the monorail will be removed over the winter from Geauga Lake. I hate to see any monorail go, but that's what they're doing. Hopefully Jungle Jim's will finally get theirs up - a handover from another park now owned by Cedar Fair.
Stay tuned!
At the same time, it was noted that the faltering Geauga Lake, also a property of Cedar Fair located in Ohio, would be undergoing some restructuring. The park's PR representative, Lexi Robinson had been let go, with folks from Cedar Point assuming her duties. Attendance has been stagnant compared to 2005, even with expansion of Wildwater Kingdom. In addition, the Hurricane Hannah's park lay abandoned, the Belaire Express monorail was shut down, and Steel Venom had a serious mechanical issue later on in the season that shut it down earlier.
This has led to rumors that X-Flight, the park's newest coaster, installed in 2001, would be dismantled and sent to another park. It looked more likely as some electrical fixtures were being removed, especially lighting on the lift hill. It also looked suspicious that a surveying company - from Milford, OH, not far from KI - was spotted in X-Flight's perimeter. At the same time, the surveyors could have been there just for utility work going on along Aurora Rd - and that the electrical work was just upgrades, including installing an on-ride photo system. But ORP work in November?
Today, the Cleveland Plain Dealer, and park spokesman Bryan Edwards, confirmed half of the rumors. X-Flight will no longer be operating at Geauga Lake, and will be dismantled and relocated to another park. But which park?
Which park will be getting a used Vekoma flying coaster?
Many rumors have stated that it's headed south for Kings Island, probably next to Flight of Fear. But would they really send a used coaster to a park that is one of Cedar Fair's biggest and highest attended parks? Have they even broken ground yet?
Other possibilities include Michigan's Adventure, which is growing and has not seen a new coaster since around 1999 - a Vekoma flyer might be the type of coaster its patrons have been wanting.
There's even the crazy rumor that it's headed for Great America, which built the world's first flying coaster - but later sent it across the country to Carowinds in 2004. It was removed from GA to make way for Boomerang Bay, which better suited the park's family audience, not to mention the lack of room to grow the park out in Silicon Valley. Now, the 49ers want to build a football stadium next door!
Also, the monorail will be removed over the winter from Geauga Lake. I hate to see any monorail go, but that's what they're doing. Hopefully Jungle Jim's will finally get theirs up - a handover from another park now owned by Cedar Fair.
Stay tuned!
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
New look for the blog, and other news tidbits.
This isn't the final version of what you may see, but I have changed the layout and colors of the AAblog, to make it look brighter, hopefully easier to read, and overall better.
Whether I'll update it consistently is another story.
----
Glenn Beck is back on the air in Cincinnat after almost a year's absence - and clearer than ever before! He is now on 96.5 FM SuperTalk, which recently changed formats from country to talk. That's right, FM! Stereo!
However, 96.5 only carries the show's last two hours, from 10am to noon. If you want to hear the first hour, 9-10 am, you will either have to tune in to Columbus' 610 WTVN-AM, listen on XM satellite radio, listen to an online radio station that carries Glenn, or become an Insider at GlennBeck.com.
In January, 550 WKRC-AM, who carried Glenn Beck since late 2001, dropped Beck in favor of Fox News' political analyst Tony Snow. However, Snow, a Princeton HS graduate, like myself, accepted a position with the White House as the Press Secretary in April, and his radio slot again became vacant.
WKRC held an online poll - although the majority of the votes were for Glenn Beck, the station manager chose to ignore the poll because many of the votes came from outside the Cincinnati market, and instead chose Laura Ingraham for the time slot.
----
Neil Patrick Harris had a life-changing event that made the news, and the top list of celebrities on AmIAnnoying.com - Legal troubles? Illness? Death? Break-up?
Nope. He's gay.
The actor, who rose to fame as the teenage doctor Doogie Howser, M.D. and currently starring in the sitcom How I Met Your Mother, gave the following statement:
"The public eye has always been kind to me, and until recently I have been able to live a pretty normal life. Now it seems there is speculation and interest in my private life and relationships. So, rather than ignore those who choose to publish their opinions without actually talking to me, I am happy to dispel any rumors or misconceptions and am quite proud to say that I am a very content gay man living my life to the fullest and feel most fortunate to be working with wonderful people in the business I love."
Whether I'll update it consistently is another story.
----
Glenn Beck is back on the air in Cincinnat after almost a year's absence - and clearer than ever before! He is now on 96.5 FM SuperTalk, which recently changed formats from country to talk. That's right, FM! Stereo!
However, 96.5 only carries the show's last two hours, from 10am to noon. If you want to hear the first hour, 9-10 am, you will either have to tune in to Columbus' 610 WTVN-AM, listen on XM satellite radio, listen to an online radio station that carries Glenn, or become an Insider at GlennBeck.com.
In January, 550 WKRC-AM, who carried Glenn Beck since late 2001, dropped Beck in favor of Fox News' political analyst Tony Snow. However, Snow, a Princeton HS graduate, like myself, accepted a position with the White House as the Press Secretary in April, and his radio slot again became vacant.
WKRC held an online poll - although the majority of the votes were for Glenn Beck, the station manager chose to ignore the poll because many of the votes came from outside the Cincinnati market, and instead chose Laura Ingraham for the time slot.
----
Neil Patrick Harris had a life-changing event that made the news, and the top list of celebrities on AmIAnnoying.com - Legal troubles? Illness? Death? Break-up?
Nope. He's gay.
The actor, who rose to fame as the teenage doctor Doogie Howser, M.D. and currently starring in the sitcom How I Met Your Mother, gave the following statement:
"The public eye has always been kind to me, and until recently I have been able to live a pretty normal life. Now it seems there is speculation and interest in my private life and relationships. So, rather than ignore those who choose to publish their opinions without actually talking to me, I am happy to dispel any rumors or misconceptions and am quite proud to say that I am a very content gay man living my life to the fullest and feel most fortunate to be working with wonderful people in the business I love."
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
700 WLW Fires Andy Furman
Today marked the end of an era in Cincinnati radio, with the termination of Sports Talk host Andy Furman from 700 WLW. About two weeks ago, Furman was suspended with pay after an argument with Bengals wide reciever T.J. Houshmandzadeh, and calling the player a racist, after failing to show up for a paid appearance on a radio show.
As a frequent listener to 700 WLW, especially of the Bill Cunningham show, I am disturbed of Furman's firing. I know Furman has said many things that have angered fans, players, as well as team owners and officials, but isn't his role as a talk host to question others' descisions and behaviors? I've enjoyed Andy being critical of players who have gone above the law, owners who have been too thrifty, and fans who have been rude, nasty, apathetic, or tended to go bandwagon.
Does this also mean the end of "Randy Furman," Scott Sloan's orthodox Jewish character?
God Bless you, Andy Furman.
Enquirer article
On Oct. 6, Furman said on the air that Houshmandzadeh had called him a “punk ass white boy.” Houshmandzadeh denied making the remark.
“I told him, ‘Andy Furman, you can f**k yourself.’ That’s the bottom line. And he twisted it into all whatever he wants to,” Houshmandzadeh said several days after the broadcast. “What he did was wrong…. This time he took it too far.”
As a frequent listener to 700 WLW, especially of the Bill Cunningham show, I am disturbed of Furman's firing. I know Furman has said many things that have angered fans, players, as well as team owners and officials, but isn't his role as a talk host to question others' descisions and behaviors? I've enjoyed Andy being critical of players who have gone above the law, owners who have been too thrifty, and fans who have been rude, nasty, apathetic, or tended to go bandwagon.
Does this also mean the end of "Randy Furman," Scott Sloan's orthodox Jewish character?
God Bless you, Andy Furman.
Enquirer article
Cardinals win World Series!
Last Friday night, the World Series finally ended, at Busch Stadium, when the St. Louis Cardinals won game 5, with a score of 4-2. David Eckstein was named MVP of the World Series, and I must say, what an interesting season!
This was a season that was lackluster at best. They even clinched the NL Central with a loss, and only Atlanta's defeat of the Astros got the Cardinals in. Hell, can you ever imagine Busch Stadium full of fans doing the tomahawk chop?
I was a little more optimistic that the Cardinals in the postseason, predicting that they would get past the Padres in the division series, but have low chances of getting past the Mets in the NLCS, because the New York team just had the National League's best regular season record. When I saw the first two games at Shea split, I thought "eh, not so bad, but what about Busch?" STL ended up with 2 of the next 3 at home - almost as if the home team won every game. This would prove to be true with game 6 at Shea. But game seven came, and it went down to the end. The hero? Yadier Molina. Molina who? Ninth inning. I would't exactly say the Mets imploded, since an otherwise Scott Rolen HR was barely caught, but the Metropolitans lost some key guys... The improbable had finally happened. My naysaying friends were stunned.
Now the World Series, and the Detroit Tigers, who bumped off Oakland in four games, were the media's favorite in this series. You've got several young guys, like Justin Verlander and Jeremy Bonderman, along with a veteran in Kenny Rogers (pine tar, not roasted chicken), some good defense. Oh, and Sean Casey, who was slumping with the Reds in 2005, although a fan favorite in Cincinnati. He'd be traded to NL outhouse Pittsburgh, albeit his hometown, and then to the quickly up and coming Tigers. And of course, the self-described 'hard-ass' that is Jim Leyland.
On the other hand, you've got 2005 NL Cy Young winner Chris Carpenter, a powerful Jeff Suppan, and an improved Jeff Weaver. Hungry fans who've waited 24 years, and a hungry Tony La Russa. David Eckstein, while short, is fast on his feet, Jim Edmonds still plays great defense, and Scott Rolen is healthy and playing this time around. You also have the iconic Scott Spezio available.
And Albert Pujols. While it seemed #5 was cold this postseason as a hitter, great defense by Albert and teammates made up for it. And the Tigers and their pitching staff made some bad errors that the Cardinals were able to take advantage of. The Tigers' only win had something to do with pine tar... But now, it's the Cards fans who've been dancing in the streets, after what I think has been an awesome comeback.
Some may say that a loaded team is expected to dismantle some after being so successful, because of the stars wanting dramatic salary increases -but think about what would have happened if they didn't go this far? Congratulations, Redbirds!!! Your hands are full of rings!
This was a season that was lackluster at best. They even clinched the NL Central with a loss, and only Atlanta's defeat of the Astros got the Cardinals in. Hell, can you ever imagine Busch Stadium full of fans doing the tomahawk chop?
I was a little more optimistic that the Cardinals in the postseason, predicting that they would get past the Padres in the division series, but have low chances of getting past the Mets in the NLCS, because the New York team just had the National League's best regular season record. When I saw the first two games at Shea split, I thought "eh, not so bad, but what about Busch?" STL ended up with 2 of the next 3 at home - almost as if the home team won every game. This would prove to be true with game 6 at Shea. But game seven came, and it went down to the end. The hero? Yadier Molina. Molina who? Ninth inning. I would't exactly say the Mets imploded, since an otherwise Scott Rolen HR was barely caught, but the Metropolitans lost some key guys... The improbable had finally happened. My naysaying friends were stunned.
Now the World Series, and the Detroit Tigers, who bumped off Oakland in four games, were the media's favorite in this series. You've got several young guys, like Justin Verlander and Jeremy Bonderman, along with a veteran in Kenny Rogers (pine tar, not roasted chicken), some good defense. Oh, and Sean Casey, who was slumping with the Reds in 2005, although a fan favorite in Cincinnati. He'd be traded to NL outhouse Pittsburgh, albeit his hometown, and then to the quickly up and coming Tigers. And of course, the self-described 'hard-ass' that is Jim Leyland.
On the other hand, you've got 2005 NL Cy Young winner Chris Carpenter, a powerful Jeff Suppan, and an improved Jeff Weaver. Hungry fans who've waited 24 years, and a hungry Tony La Russa. David Eckstein, while short, is fast on his feet, Jim Edmonds still plays great defense, and Scott Rolen is healthy and playing this time around. You also have the iconic Scott Spezio available.
And Albert Pujols. While it seemed #5 was cold this postseason as a hitter, great defense by Albert and teammates made up for it. And the Tigers and their pitching staff made some bad errors that the Cardinals were able to take advantage of. The Tigers' only win had something to do with pine tar... But now, it's the Cards fans who've been dancing in the streets, after what I think has been an awesome comeback.
Some may say that a loaded team is expected to dismantle some after being so successful, because of the stars wanting dramatic salary increases -but think about what would have happened if they didn't go this far? Congratulations, Redbirds!!! Your hands are full of rings!
Friday, October 27, 2006
Does the dream come true tonight?
Tonight, the St. Louis Cardinals are just one game away from winning the World Series in Game 5 at Busch Stadium. They lead the Detroit Tigers 3-1.
While I'm depressed that I can't be there, especially since I had a ticket to LAST YEAR'S Game Five, I'm definitely excited that the Cardinals are about to reach this great pinnacle! If they do win tonight, the Cardinals will be the first team to win the World Series in a brand-new stadium! Yes, I still miss the old Busch Stadium, but this is definitely beyond what Cardinals owners were hoping for with a new facility. Many teams have demanded new stadiums and arenas in the hope it would boost revenues, bring in top players, and to win championships. Do we have a great case study on or hands, a really good team that's already been in the making, or just great luck.
As some may say, "Champions don't hesitate." Will the St. Louis Cardinals be world champions after game 5? Stay tuned!
While I'm depressed that I can't be there, especially since I had a ticket to LAST YEAR'S Game Five, I'm definitely excited that the Cardinals are about to reach this great pinnacle! If they do win tonight, the Cardinals will be the first team to win the World Series in a brand-new stadium! Yes, I still miss the old Busch Stadium, but this is definitely beyond what Cardinals owners were hoping for with a new facility. Many teams have demanded new stadiums and arenas in the hope it would boost revenues, bring in top players, and to win championships. Do we have a great case study on or hands, a really good team that's already been in the making, or just great luck.
As some may say, "Champions don't hesitate." Will the St. Louis Cardinals be world champions after game 5? Stay tuned!
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
One Month Left...
... or less than, that is. That's how much time left to visit amusement parks in the greater tri-state area of Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, and some beyond. The water parks, as well as some amusement parks have closed, but here's what's left.
Going to a seasonal park in its last month has is pros and cons. Cons, in that less attractions may be operating, especially water rides and water parks - but knowing what the temperatures normally are in October, maybe that's not too much of a con.
However, the pros are in greater number, it seems. Crowds are generally lower than in summer months - some might give up on parks after Labor Day, but the weather is still decent enough to stop by. Some also have great Halloween festivals - with light-hearted family friendly attractions suitable for the little ones, to full-blown blood and gore that makes even the toughest coaster lover, like me, feel uneasy.
On top of that, you may get a good deal on getting in, whether it's discounted admission, or season passes. Not only are passes sometimes cheaper in the fall - they are valid for next year! Some parks allow instant entry for October 2006 with their passes, others don't.
Holiday World
Usually paired up with Splashin' Safari, this Santa Claus, IN theme park is just about all dry. Don't worry, three great wood coasters, including The Voyage, are reason enough for dropping by! But do so soon, they close for the season this Sunday, October 8! 2007 Season Passes are available.
Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom
This Louisville park is still open weekends through October 29, and is offering Fright Fest, with fun and frightening attractions alongside the great coasters SFKK is known for. They are now selling 2007 passes, which include park admission right away, for only $49.99!
Kings Island
FearFest is back, and some say it is the best in years, if not ever! Six haunted attractions, three frightening zones, live entertainment, and the favorite coasters, on Friday and Saturday nights! Families and children won't be left out on fall fun, since Nick or Treat is available Saturdays and Sundays! Discounted admission can be found on the park's website: $19.99 for Friday nights, and all day Saturday, $29.99. Kings Island is now selling 2007 season passes for $74.99 for adults, and are valid for the rest of 2006 at KI as well. Now a member of Cedar Fair L.P., you can also upgrade to the Maxx Pass for only $50 more, to get access to eleven great parks, including Cedar Point and Geauga Lake in Ohio. $149.99 gets you Maxx Plus, which includes separately gated park as well - but these passes will not be valid outside of Kings Island until 2007.
Open Fridays 7 pm-12 midnight, Saturdays 11 am- midnight, and Sundays 11 am- 7 pm.
Stricker's Grove
This small picnic grove park located in the northwest corner of Hamilton County, near Ross, OH, will have its third and final public operating day of the 2006 season on October 15. Stricker's is normally reserved for private outings for companies, large groups, reunions, unions, and the like, but the friendly folks like to let the rest of us in on something many still don't know too much about! On this Customer Appreciation Day, admission is only $9, and includes all rides. Parking and soft drinks are free! If you've never been, it'll be a fun time, with several flat rides, and two fun wooden roller coasters.
Going to a seasonal park in its last month has is pros and cons. Cons, in that less attractions may be operating, especially water rides and water parks - but knowing what the temperatures normally are in October, maybe that's not too much of a con.
However, the pros are in greater number, it seems. Crowds are generally lower than in summer months - some might give up on parks after Labor Day, but the weather is still decent enough to stop by. Some also have great Halloween festivals - with light-hearted family friendly attractions suitable for the little ones, to full-blown blood and gore that makes even the toughest coaster lover, like me, feel uneasy.
On top of that, you may get a good deal on getting in, whether it's discounted admission, or season passes. Not only are passes sometimes cheaper in the fall - they are valid for next year! Some parks allow instant entry for October 2006 with their passes, others don't.
Holiday World
Usually paired up with Splashin' Safari, this Santa Claus, IN theme park is just about all dry. Don't worry, three great wood coasters, including The Voyage, are reason enough for dropping by! But do so soon, they close for the season this Sunday, October 8! 2007 Season Passes are available.
Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom
This Louisville park is still open weekends through October 29, and is offering Fright Fest, with fun and frightening attractions alongside the great coasters SFKK is known for. They are now selling 2007 passes, which include park admission right away, for only $49.99!
Kings Island
FearFest is back, and some say it is the best in years, if not ever! Six haunted attractions, three frightening zones, live entertainment, and the favorite coasters, on Friday and Saturday nights! Families and children won't be left out on fall fun, since Nick or Treat is available Saturdays and Sundays! Discounted admission can be found on the park's website: $19.99 for Friday nights, and all day Saturday, $29.99. Kings Island is now selling 2007 season passes for $74.99 for adults, and are valid for the rest of 2006 at KI as well. Now a member of Cedar Fair L.P., you can also upgrade to the Maxx Pass for only $50 more, to get access to eleven great parks, including Cedar Point and Geauga Lake in Ohio. $149.99 gets you Maxx Plus, which includes separately gated park as well - but these passes will not be valid outside of Kings Island until 2007.
Open Fridays 7 pm-12 midnight, Saturdays 11 am- midnight, and Sundays 11 am- 7 pm.
Stricker's Grove
This small picnic grove park located in the northwest corner of Hamilton County, near Ross, OH, will have its third and final public operating day of the 2006 season on October 15. Stricker's is normally reserved for private outings for companies, large groups, reunions, unions, and the like, but the friendly folks like to let the rest of us in on something many still don't know too much about! On this Customer Appreciation Day, admission is only $9, and includes all rides. Parking and soft drinks are free! If you've never been, it'll be a fun time, with several flat rides, and two fun wooden roller coasters.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Deal or No Deal is back!
This week on NBC, Deal or No Deal, Howie Mandel, and the models, are back, with escalating prizes. When the show last went away, a high school football coach, who brought along his whole team, was playing for $5 million. In the previews, the top prize is supposed to escalate to $6 million.
Can't wait to see the show? Play this fun, tasty take on the hit game show!
Can't wait to see the show? Play this fun, tasty take on the hit game show!
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Chicago's Big Box ordinance vetoed, rejected
Chicago Sun-Times
The living wage ordinance, which targeted big-box retailers such as Wal-Mart, is dead. After a veto by Mayor Richard Daley, as well as some aldermen, who first supported the ordinance but decided to reverse, because of the adverse economic effects caused by not having such stores in the city.
The living wage ordinance, which targeted big-box retailers such as Wal-Mart, is dead. After a veto by Mayor Richard Daley, as well as some aldermen, who first supported the ordinance but decided to reverse, because of the adverse economic effects caused by not having such stores in the city.
A South Side alderman with an expansion promise from Wal-Mart and two of Mayor Daley's closest Hispanic supporters said Monday they will provide the crossover votes Daley needs to sustain his veto of an ordinance requiring "big-box" retailers to pay their employees at least $13 an hour in wages and benefits by 2010."I understand and share a desire to ensure that everyone who works in ... Chicago earns a decent wage. But, I do not believe that this ordinance, well-intentioned as it may be, would achieve that end," Daley said in his first-ever veto message.
"Rather, I believe it would drive jobs and businesses from our city, penalizing neighborhoods that need additional economic activity the most. In light of this, I believe it is my duty to veto this ordinance."
Even after Daley's veto, the aldermen had the option of overriding the mayor's decision. However, those who supported the ordinance would ultimately lose after some of the council members decided to cross-over and oppose the law. They, among others, have realized that many shoppers leave the city to shop at these discount stores - why not keep the dollars within the Chicago city limits?
While some activists and union/labor leaders won't truly claim defeat, this shows that
"progressive" policy has actually hurt the inner cities and their residents, forcing retailers to build new stores in farmland and greenfields, rather than on brownfields and urban vacant sites that deserve it more - and for residents who need job opportunities and more choices.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Beech Bend neighbor wants Raceway, Amusement Park shut down
From the "I Have Nothing Better To Do Department":
http://bgdailynews.com/articles/2006/09/14/local_news/news/news1.txt
I'm not sure if Mr. Baker has a case, but I am sure he has some personal feud going on. Then again, they could re-zone the Beech Bend property, or simply toss the bleeping lawsuit out.
Matt Baker wants to shut down Beech Bend Raceway Park for good.
In the wake of a Kentucky Court of Appeals ruling that would likely reopen a lane past his house to heavy weekend race traffic, Baker filed suit Sept. 8 in Warren Circuit Court against Warren County, City-County Planning Commission Executive Director Andy Gillies and Beech Bend owner Dallas Jones.
Baker's suit says the planning commission hasn't enforced its own ordinance - that Beech Bend's land is zoned for agriculture - and so shouldn't be used for a racetrack or amusement park.
It demands Jones “forever cease and desist all use of this property as an amusement park, campground, racetrack, concession or other entertainment facility.”
http://bgdailynews.com/articles/2006/09/14/local_news/news/news1.txt
I'm not sure if Mr. Baker has a case, but I am sure he has some personal feud going on. Then again, they could re-zone the Beech Bend property, or simply toss the bleeping lawsuit out.
Fox Sports writer ranks Bengals stadium 2nd worst.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5941952
Some people I know that bleed orange and black are going to see red:
Honestly, I think the stadium is an architectural landmark for Cincinnati - it's sleek and modern, like I like. If it weren't for Stark County's money and buddy ties, the OHSAA state football finals would be there by now. I also appreciate the restrooms: they're large, and the urinals have partitions between them! But Elliott Kalb got most of the article right - the fans have an attitude problem. And 'Who Dey!" should have been retired with the 1980s, the Sam Wyche area, and Riverfront Stadium. When you have your biggest rival clearly, undisputedly answering "We Dey!" because they not only beat you, but they have yet another Super Bowl ring, it's time to find anoter chant.
Some people I know that bleed orange and black are going to see red:
The Worst
2. Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati.
The fans were so vulgar and there were such displays of drunkenness (no, fans, inebriation is not a right) that the team — to its credit — has instituted a jerk line to call out idiots who cross the line. Fans can use their cell phones to rat out their neighbors. Will it help? I'm skeptical. I realize that Cincinnati fans aren't the only ones who exhibit boorish behavior (Philly fans practically wrote the book on it). Besides those issues, however, there are things to dislike about PBS. I found it difficult to navigate in a car to a suitable lot, and to find the entrance to the stadium. Fans screaming about disrespect ("Who dey! Who dey! Who dey think gonna beat dem Bengals?") is hardly worthy of great NFL chants.
Honestly, I think the stadium is an architectural landmark for Cincinnati - it's sleek and modern, like I like. If it weren't for Stark County's money and buddy ties, the OHSAA state football finals would be there by now. I also appreciate the restrooms: they're large, and the urinals have partitions between them! But Elliott Kalb got most of the article right - the fans have an attitude problem. And 'Who Dey!" should have been retired with the 1980s, the Sam Wyche area, and Riverfront Stadium. When you have your biggest rival clearly, undisputedly answering "We Dey!" because they not only beat you, but they have yet another Super Bowl ring, it's time to find anoter chant.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Koch bumped off Colbert - for now.
I apologize to everyone who was looking forward to Holiday World's own Will Koch on last night's Colbert Report. Apparently, Will had microphone trouble, which messed up things. By the time they got a working microphone, it would be too late to air the segment yesterday.
According to Holiblog, it will be a few weeks, but stay tuned.
Therefore, you could say, Mr. Colbert himself is... ON NOTICE.
According to Holiblog, it will be a few weeks, but stay tuned.
Therefore, you could say, Mr. Colbert himself is... ON NOTICE.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Will Koch tonight on Colbert Report - Sheriff Jones to be on Daily Show
Late program alert: Tune into Comedy Central to see the Colbert Report TONIGHT at 11:30 PM Eastern. Will Koch from Holiday World and Splashin' Safari will be on, in a segment connecting Spencer County, IN to Abraham Lincoln.
Coming soon to "brother show" Daily Show with Jon Stewart is Butler County Sheriff Richard K. Jones. The Sheriff is known around for his tough crackdown on illegal aliens and implementation of chain gangs, as well as cheap mystery meat for inmates. The segment will tape tomorrow, air date to be announced soon.
So, don't forget, the Colbear Repoor tonight at 11:30. Will Koch!
Coming soon to "brother show" Daily Show with Jon Stewart is Butler County Sheriff Richard K. Jones. The Sheriff is known around for his tough crackdown on illegal aliens and implementation of chain gangs, as well as cheap mystery meat for inmates. The segment will tape tomorrow, air date to be announced soon.
So, don't forget, the Colbear Repoor tonight at 11:30. Will Koch!
9/11 Caller - Tower Collapses While on Phone
NOT SUITABLE FOR SOME: Kevin Cosgrove, trapped on the 105th floor of Two World Trade Center, is on the line with 911 on his cell phone. The call ends abruptly when the tower collapses.
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