FoF96"

If you all haven't picked up yet this is what I was referencing in my last post to this thread...

How is the decision to remove Mantis in any way bad news for Kentucky Kingdom? I don't think anyone on here can say exactly how the Kingdom is doing financially, especially considering your statements are based off of a few** PR mistakes/ perceptions. I think you all will be mighty surprised when next year rolls around. I'll leave it at that.

I don't normally toot my own horn, but today myself and the other 4 operators at Lightning Run moved like i have not seen that ride move before. I honestly think it was comparable to Diamondbacks crew. On most occasions we were ready to go before the ride was (2 train operation) and there was NO stacking other than the occasional "guest of a larger stature" and on a different note, today's guest count was MUCH higher than yesterday's.

That it is. Love the little speed knob used to operate it. Edit for Terp: seems like most things at the Kingdom are Vekoma or Zamperla (lol).

But, Kentucky Kingdom is open. I operated aforementioned Giant Wheel today.

Shake, Rattle & Roll is still included on the parks website. Perhaps a sign of hope?

This is a bit off topic but not major. If you all enjoy band organs, The Bella Musica and Kentucky Kingdom recently had a new one installed and it is now operating as well...

Really glad you enjoyed the park. Everyone has been working so hard to try and make it the best experience possible with what we've got. Another note, Deluge water coaster will be opening tomorrow!

I think I may have spotted a gator at the park today but I didn't occur to me until I was driving home otherwise I would have said something, gator, were you wearing a Banshee T-shirt today?

Deep Water Dive was one of the scariest things I have done in my life. Usually attractions don't make me nervous like this one did. It was so much fun though.

If you don't mind me asking where are these pictures? I have been looking but only seen generic news photos.

Something I hope guests noticed was how prompt we were at dealing with questions and request. An issue today for Thunder Run was line jumping. I had security escort a good number out of the park for that reason alone. I hope people see we are strict with our rules so people can enjoy themselves.

Yes. Amazon reserved the park for a private event. Lines for Thunder Run were similar to that of The Beast at night in halloween. Very thick crowd at least in my area. Only ride over there that didn't have a decent wait was Mile High Falls due to temperature. All Amazon employees could bring friends and family so it was packed like Kings Island during Halloween Haunt.

Sigh, I wish people would give us a break. First they complain about ride breakdowns expecting them to have 100% reliability the first day they even carry loads of people. Then they complain about lines. I don't think they realized just how many people were there today and also that safety being the number one concern, takes a little more time. Everyone I saw today worked so hard and it's a huge blow to them and me when people basically say "KK sucks, don't go there", "KI is better", "not worth the free ticket because of wait and food prices" which by the by aren't that bad. There were positive guest today that understood and were patient with us. All of ACE was incredible, such a positive group. I just hope next Saturday goes a little bit smoother.

Yes it did and took my first ride just before midnight last night. Quick, precise transitions with loads of airtime all with a smoothness that rivals B&M if not beats it.

I'm surprised there are no photos of Thunder Run testing taken from the highway. It was going from noon until like 7:30 tonight.

Tonight while training at Thunder Run I learned ACE would be at the Kingdom this Saturday. We were told to watch out for their questions as they would be asking a lot of things we aren't supposed to answer. So I think it is funny how we got a "warning".

Once the park opens in two weeks maybe even this weekend. I think a certain company that has been being brought up a lot here lately will come up again.

Planning on going Tuesday the 20th. Hopefully it is open!

Guys I received a large surprise from the Kingdom today. I learned I was being promoted to be in charge of the operation of the Thunder Zone. Apparently I have really impressed in the last few months with my quality of work. This will give me an even greater chance of interacting with some of you as I will be moving sporadically throughout my zone to ensure smooth and proper operation. I just really hope I am able to live up to and exceed all standards that are expected of me and I am now ready for Kentucky Kingdom's 2014 season. See all of you guys there!

Wow even I haven't been up there yet. That looks like one heck of a slide! Edit: Also I am starting to be nervous for the opening day. It's quickly approaching and I feel we are going to be very busy. Can't believe how quickly the day is approaching.

Is it because of this "Crypt" I keep hearing about in the Congo?

The last time I rode the Voyage it felt like I had been in a terrible car accident. Once I stepped off of that thing my back was a little sore and I have 0 back problems. I can't remember if this was last year or as many as 3 years ago.

Hate to double post but I found out where I am going to be stationed for the 2014 season. You all can find me in the "Thunder Zone" which includes Thunder Run, Mile High Falls, Roller Skater, Flying Dutchman, Fire Chief, and Bella Musica. I hope to see some of you this summer!

Yes train 1 for Lightning Run has arrived today and has been fully installed on track.