coasterdime

I never even REMOTELY suggested that PKI should pull people off the games to run the rides! I DO wish that PKI would train some of the people that can commit more time to the park to actually run the rides. Not everyone of legal working age is away at school. By the way, this is a fan site. I am a huge fan of PKI. When things aren't running as well as they should, people outside of the enthusiast community are the first to complain. Some will simply "vote with their pocketbook," and just visit other parks/attractions next time. (which worries me) I did return another day, like I said; and will return many, many more times. As far as the volunteers go.....most of their frustration was coming from GUESTS who were complaining to THEM. Again, complaining guests aren't happy guests....and unhappy guests sometimes don't come back. Obviously, volunteers aren't stuck running or maintaining the rides. I'm pretty sure that didn't even need to pointed out. They are, sometimes, the person with a name tag even (if it's just a sticker) that will hear some of the grief. I'm not trying to lash out at any responses here, but even the most loyal PKI employee has to see how some guests could have become a little upset at Friday's situation. Also, most of the guests have NO idea that the park will limit operations at all, until they arrive. For me, it's just a 15 minute drive, but a large share of PKI's guests travel from much greater distances. For what it's worth, the park was pretty busy all weekend. Despite this, pretty much every employee (in my observation) was really on the ball. I encountered nothing but friendliness and efficiency Saturday through Monday. By the way, was SOB Tom working The Beast recently? I would have said hello, but I wasn't sure.....

I was troubled by the ride closures, too. I understood that the park was to suffer from "limited operations," but the only thing EVER limited is the rides. In fact, last year that was a running joke between the PKI volunteers. All games were open and only a couple restaurants were closed. I had prepared to spend the entire day, but called it quits after 30 minutes. The whole weekend was not a loss, though. I was back on Saturday to try my luck, and the whole park was as good as it can be! The lines, even though a little long at times, moved quickly and almost all of the ride ops were actually friendly. The park needs to freeze frame Saturday's operation and play it back every day. (I'm talking about effciency and friendliness here, not #'s of emlpoyees.) The crews worked almost as quickly as the crews at that "other" park in the northern half of the state, and that's a good thing.

I wouldn't worry about it too much. On Saturday, there was a good size limb that had become a real problem. (it was the tree just over the control stand) I talked for a little while to Brian, while the limb was being cut down. He dispelled a rumor that was floating through the local ACE community that the trees were slated to come down. For some of the peeps who don't frequent the flyers, snapping is a tradition that has an appeal for 6 year olds, and still appeals to those who enoyed the flyers at Coney. PKI has been incredible, and is one of the few parks to allow snapping. A maintenence person (a friend of the family) told me the ride is designed to handle snapping, as has handled it well for decades. As long as PKI does the job they've been doing maintaining it, we should be fine. If you frequent the flyers, and get to know the crew, they will actually congratulate you on a good ride! I hope Paramount management does nothing to change this policy. I, personally, feel this would change the personality of the park; and help to erode sme of the tradition this ride represents in this area. On Sunday, I enjoyed this ride easily 2 dozen times. The front of the park was slammed....yet there was little wait for the flyers all day. I did brush the trees a little, but did no actual contact. As I said, with the one problematic branch removed from the path of the tubs....I wouldn't worry.

I don't see where you get that. EVERYONE has the chance to purchase the Gold Season pass from around post-season until May 18th. If people don't get it by then, it's their own fault. Now if they only optioned to, lets say, give the gold pass to previous gold pass holders, I could see where you get the "I'm better than you" impression. If I'm not mistaken, isn't the Gold Pass the only type of pass they give out until May 18th? I "get that" because that is EXACTLY the jist of PKI's 2003 gold pass marketing campaign. I was pretty clear that the idea would inevitably trickle down into the mindset of many passholders. "EVERYONE" could get a pass before Sunday, but obviously not everyone will. Therein lies the "superiority" that said campaign is playing on. I've been pretty clear on where I stand, even saying that these "Exclusive" nights were never a selling point for me personally. Jeff Siebert told a group of us last Spring that PKI sells more season passes than any other single park. The park managment understands (even is some of the seasonal employees don't) that these "extras" are a big reason that the passes move as quickly as they do. Again, I'm not trashing PKI! I'm simply disagreeing with some of the positions taken here that some of the perks are simply gifts. Jim Moreland ...who won't even be attending 5/16...

I don't want to jump on anyone here, as I truly see everyone's point. But I do have to add one thing: PKI doesn't give us Gold Pass perks to be nice. They add them for one reason, and one reason only: to sell passes. There are three major parks within a 4-5 hour drive of PKI. Some members of the public could just as easly spend their money to get their passes. For some, the Gold Pass upgrade was free, for some it wasn't. I think some of the passholders expect more, simply because they've invested more by getting a season pass. I know, I know...it pays for itself in just 2 visits.... but while some will use their pass dozens of times, others won't use their pass more than once. PKI even uses the "I'm better than you!" attitude in their latest marketing campaigns. "Be card-carrying big-shot," and "Put everyone else where they belong; behind YOU!" Gee, I wonder why some passholders cherish their extras, and feel superior?! That said, PKI has made mistakes over the past month with the use of the word "exclusive." Whether we were living in a cave in April or not, the park sold an EXCLUSIVE SP holder sneak preview.....whether SP holders got it or not. Although I was dismayed on the 11th, I came back on the 12th.....and had a great time. I really don't expect some kind of make-up day. Again fair is fair, and we weren't SOLD that perk. I also don't want to come off as whiny. So I personally just take what I get. I've enjoyed the park both busy and slow. In 1994, I enjoyed an ACE event with just 600 people in the park. Last year, I kinda enjoyed a visit when the park neared capacity. But when the park uses the word EXCLUSIVE in regards to park access; to sell passes....I can truly see how some would be upset when the park doesn't deliver. Some of the employees and others defending the park (And don't get me wrong, 95% of the time I'm defending the park with serious fervor.) should realize that it wasn't just fans of this site complaining about the 11th (April) People were leaving that night with a bad taste in their mouths. They were leaving mad by the hundreds.... As for defending the park....Gold Pass nights weren't one of the reasons I ever invested in a pass. There are many, many other perks that I cherish. That said, I'm a season pass holder for every major park chain, and can just as easily spend my time and money at another park. I usually don't, though; as PKI offers an experience that other parks can't begin to touch. There is a well-roundedness to PKI that makes me proud to call it my home park. (It is my home park, by the way, only because I moved to this area JUST to be near PKI, so I really do love the place.) I can see, however, how some folks feel they have the right to complain about the early part of the new season. James "playing devil's advocate" Moreland

Nope, still can't get the link to work... Sounds cool though.

Awwwww s#$%$#t! I completely forgot about this one! I made plans to stay home (in Southern Ohio) this weekend..... I would HAPPILY pay DOUBLE for my Gold Pass....if only they would get rid of this stupid park-clogging "benefit." Now, I'm trying to arrange lodging last-minute....I will just head north for the weekend... I have to get my other season passes renewed anyway. If there is one thing I could change about my home park, this would be it! For those of you about to brave it, have fun! Jim Moreland

For me, and this is without reservation, it would be The Flying Eagles. I've been enjoying everything the park has to offer since the early-mid 70's, but I never tried the Eagles until the middle of last season. Once I got my first "snap", I was totally addicted! I know this ride is old, and had a "kiddie-ride" perception, but this ride can be as wild as anything in the park. If you haven't tried this ride....really tried it, ride it until you are able to get a few snaps, and you'll see what I mean. I love pretty much every ride at PKI, and I'm one of those that has been fortunate enough to sample rides and parks from all over the country. We're all fans here, of course; but I think a lot of people in this area take this park for granted. Jim Moreland

I'm not the biggest fan of the Partridge Family, but I had that tape around here somewhere. From what I can remember: The PF performed on/near the fountain stage. There was a large banner hanging from the tower that read, "C'mon Get Happy!" I remember watching the old Sky Ride above them, and that giant orange/blue circus tent in there somewhere. There were some great shots from the Eiffel Tower, and I am amazed at how radically the park has grown in just 30+ years. David? (the oldest Partridge kid) rode The Racer, and quickly ran to the restroom (by what is now "Fudge &....?") to lose his lunch. I love these 2 episodes because they remind me of how the park grew up with me. We've traded some of the Coney nostalgia and rides for what we know and love today. The shows remind me of how many things are gone, but I like to look at it another way.... Look how much has been improved and added over the years! Could you imagine the park today if there were still only 2-3 coasters?! Jim Moreland

Actually, I've had the pleasure of taking part in shoots when the park was closed, but on an operating day. I've been at PKI for about 10 different shoots, all but a couple took place when the park was closed on the day of the shoot. When I rode TR:TR for the first time, it was for the Travel Channel. We simply shot the scenes a few hours before one of PKI's Math and Science days. I think you missed my point, though. What I was trying to get across was that the younger crowds were "in love" with these celebrities. That kind of buzz in the crowd will help the final product. And that kind of buzz would have been impossible if the park had been closed. I'm not sure if you've ever seen the Brady Bunch episode filmed at the park. Next time you see it, look in the background at the crowds....they are standing behind ropes, mouths open, and completely starstruck! (by the Brady kids, no less!)

It's always great to see PKI get more publicity! I first saw the group as they boarded Top Gun. In fact, they actually got on the train I just left. At first, I was wondering why they just didn't do their filming when the park was closed, (like most of the Discovery/Travel Channel stuff) but when I saw the reactions of all of the teens.....it answered my questions. Jessica Simpson is hot and all that, but honestly, there were at least 100 cuter babes at the park that day! For this old man of 30, could someone tell me what she sings? Oh, they filmed her playing the basketball game right by The Racer. I'm not sure, but I think she cheated! The filmed her thowing the ball, and then filmed a perfect shot......shot by someone else!

Whoa! Thanks for the info, Shaggy. I am one who will miss David. Although I didn't know him extremely well, he was always good for a little conversation when I saw him at the park. David and Jeff were a real powerhouse of a team. Jeff was is the wacky one, and David was the one who kept him grounded. As a team they complimented each other like "peas and carrots." I have a couple David Mandt memories, both involving his apparent fear of the big rides. One was last year, during the Drop Zone TV shoot. A some of you who were there know, the shoot had VERY few riders. I kept offering the seat next to me to him. He commented that he'd rather play in I-71 traffic. The other funny David thing was just this month. He was just silly about describing himself on his first Delirium ride. He said he could be heard on the other side of the park! Congrats to both, and good luck David! James Moreland

I very much preferred the old color scheme, too. In the ride's first years, it had an incredible presence... the red track really stuck out against the landscape, especially in Spring and Fall. The ride, as we all know, is still incredible. It is like getting a shot of adrenaline. For me, it is well worth the walk back there, and with two train operation again,this ride is usually the shortest wait in AZ. The first and last Arrow suspendeds call/called PKI home, and is still one of my favorite coaster genres. James Moreland

I was at the park today from 10 until about 3. I (because of the expected crowds) had planned to leave at 12, but at the time I left, the big crowds never really arrived. My longest wait was for Drop Zone, and that was less than 1/2 hour. Jim Moreland

Speaking of the Media Day Scooby cookies, I would pay for them on a regular business day! They were simple iced sugar cookies with a Scooby face, but were quite good. It would be good to sit on International Street, sip coffee and chomp a couple of these in the morning. James Moreland

For me, (and I LOVE both rides) I have to give the nod to Delirium. It it an incredibly thrilling ride, but its "curb appeal" just can't be beaten. Did everyone ear the gasps of the crowd, as they saw the ride cycle for the first time? I also LOVE this ride after dark! On Friday and Saturday, I got a ride just after dark, and seeing the beautiful PKI skyline--all lit up-- from 130+ feet in the air while nearly inverted; well, it was astonishing. PKI is definitely filling a void....they are slowly getting an unbeatable collection of extreme flat rides, some more thrilling than most coasters! James Moreland

On my first trip through, I scored over 2900. I cheated, though; as the ride stopped to load/unload cameras.. I was able to keep hitting the same three targets, wait for them to reset, and hit them again. This is a beautifully presented ride, and would be entertaining even without the interactive feature! On my last few rides, I was simply enjoying the scenery, and just hitting the Scooby Snacks. When you hit the Scooby Snacks, Scooby appears! That is something I missed on Media Day. Speaking of Media Day, how cool was it of PKI to give those on-ride photos away?! I have two, and they are dated April 10, 2003. These are really top quality photos! Thanks, PKI! Next time you guys ride, just take the time to look aroud a little. That is, of course, unless you ride someone very competitive....in that case kick their a@#!! Waiting for the weekend already, James Moreland

I'm actually pretty excited about this shoot. Like some of you, I've attended the shoots for most of the shows and commercials for the past few seasons. They are great! Can't wait! Jim Moreland

I'll probably hit Delirium, DZ, and then head for the back of the park. Beast, and flying eagles is where I'll spend the rest of the weekend. Didn't I read somewhere that the Chinese place will be moving to another location in the park? I really hope so....

Pesonally, I'd love to see an Intamin or B&M. The Intamin hypers I have ridden were smooth, fast, and full of airtime. I wouldn't mind something from B&M along the lines of Nitro. I do like how Beemers sound, look, and ride. I personally think a B&M is a perfect fit for a large park like PKI...a really good high capacity ride is what they need. If PKI goes with B&M, I can follow constuction from the factory....as I live very close to it.

For me, the best ride would have to be the Flying Eagles. Simple, classic and FUN. I spent 1 out of 3 days this season at PKI, and despite everyone I know in ACE praising this ride, I just didn't get it. Towards the middle of August, I tried this ride a few times....and finally got my first snap. This ride is extremely addictive. I spent most of the fall days on this ride! It was also the last ride of the season for me, as I was unable to stay for the final Beast ride.

I won a few Snapples, a few TR posters, and two coaster posters. I really got more trivia teasers than anything, but never collected more than one. Does someone (Shaggy?) know when the Ford Escape was awarded? Did someone win it the final day of the contest, or did they just have to wait to take delivery? It was a very cool contest nonetheless....

Personally, I HATE bring a friend days. I simply avoid PKI during those days. On a separate note, is PKI still issuing last year's passes, with "2003" stamped on the bottom? If they did finally run out of them, and issued new ones; what do they look like? ....still glad I got my pass processing out of the way early...

In 2002, I renewed my pass in the spring, and got my calendar and pass info then. I got my '03 pass in Oct. I was wondering....When will I get info about the upcoming season? (schedules for sp nights, early ride times, etc) Thanks in advance! Jim Moreland