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Hi Everyone! I'm new to this whole "Create a thread" thing, so please bear with me as I figure it out. As a side note, if this thread/post breaks any rules or there is a better way to do it please let me know! I looked in the TPR Rules thread and couldn't find anything, but I want to respect the rules of the forum above all else! Today, RMC (Rocky Mountain Construction) introduced a new website! While that may not seem newsworthy on it's own, what is notable it this introduction of two new ride/track models and a new standard Raptor layout!! First up is the new "Hybrid Family Coaster": https://www.rockymtnconstruction.com/family-hybrid-coasters/ "RMC began its journey into the amusement industry through traditional wooden roller coaster installation. In an effort to improve the ride experience, RMC developed the patented Ibox track system. These rides have been thrilling park goers across the world for over a decade. However, these rides may be too thrilling for some guests. Family coaster passengers will enjoy the smooth ride of the Ibox track system while experiencing family friendly elements. RMC offers (3) standard layouts with different elements and footprints to best fit the available real estate. There is also the ability to develop a custom layout. The family hybrid coaster utilizes the same state of the art Ibox track technology as RMC’s award-winning hybrid coasters, but with a more modest ride layout. This allows patrons to enjoy a smooth ride as a family with a thrill level more suitable for those who are may be too short, or just not ready to ride an extreme RMC hybrid roller coaster. Family coasters are all designed and manufactured by RMC at our facility in Hayden, ID." This appears to be an extension of the company's I-Box track what we have seen on their hybrid coasters, just with tamer layouts and no inversions. Kinda an interesting concept, although I don't see a park really ordering one of these being as that their are similar options available from Gerstlauer, Zamperla, etc. But you never know I guess...? (I got to be honest, that layout in the concept art looks super fun for a family coaster!!!) Next is the new standard Raptor layout! https://www.rockymtnconstruction.com/steel-coasters/ And before anyone asks...no this is not Stunt Pilot's layout. Stunt Pilot has the standard layout that Railblazer has (see below). This layout looks like it has a few extra elements (namely the "Fakey Airtime Hill" and a pre-lift section), and a little more track. Also, notable both standard Raptor designs on their website feature 2 trains, instead of 3 so I guess that's the new standards for cloneable Raptors? They still offer a custom version as well for parks who want it. Here is the first standard layout for comparison (which looks like Stunt Pilot's, although I don't know where the 180 degree stall and overbank turns came from?): Lastly (and perhaps most interesting), is a new track type they are calling "208 RetraK" (And...that's the actual name...I didn't make it up...): https://www.rockymtnconstruction.com/wood-coaster-refurbishment/ "RMC has been successfully upgrading traditional wood track with steel track for decades, which improves the ride and dramatically reduces maintenance. 208 RetraK is our latest innovation in track replacement and is based on our proven Ibox and Topper track designs. 208 RetraK will last for years and eliminate the need for continuous inspection, repair, and replacement of traditional wooden track. Additionally, 208 RetraK is able to utilize a rides existing trains, mechanical system, and controls to deliver a smoother ride, reduced downtime, and improved wheel longevity at a reasonable price. Custom 208 RetraK is precision manufactured utilizing RMC’s laser measurement system, CNC plasma cut, and patented semi-automated welding technology. 208 RetraK is manufactured with premium grade weathered steel to match the existing coaster profile and installs effortlessly to existing structure. 208 RetraK can be utilized as a small track upgrade in a troubled area of a coaster, or even as a full coaster renovation. Simple track upgrades of 150’ or more can be installed throughout a ride and added onto year after year. A complete circuit replacement at one time is also possible. 208 RetraK can be installed turnkey by RMC’s factory team or by the park with RMC providing technical support. 208 RetraK is designed and manufactured by RMC at our facility in Hayden, ID." I'm not an engineer, so I don't know the difference between this 208 RetraK and I-Box track, but they seem similar albeit slightly different in how they attach to the support structure. I'm (of course) biased that this is the most important development, since this is what was installed on Tremors (at my homepark) this past off-season, and apparently more is on site to be installed for next season. I am intrigued by this RetraK as it seems to be RMC's response to GCI's Titan Track, and I'm curious to see how the RetraK vs. Titan Track battle might play out. Personally, I think RMC has the upper hand, but we shall see... This leads me into the sadder (for coaster enthusiasts) part of the update, and that is that there is NO REFERENCE ANYWHERE of the T-Rex (and believe me I scowered their site). On the "Steel Coaster" page only the Raptor is mentioned. Also, aside from the Goliath, Outlaw Run, and Lightning Rod pages these is no mention of Topper Track either. So I am going to officially guess (I have no inside info of any kind this is just my opinion) that the Topper Track has officially been discontinued, and the T-Rex officially shelved... I don't think the Topper is a huge loss, but thinking that the T-Rex might be officially dead certainly is a disappointing thought... Other than that...Iron Gwazi is listed as "Coming Soon" (Stunt Pilot is as well) so no spoilers there... I wish RMC luck with the new track type, coaster model, and standard layout. They seem to be facing increased competition from GCI and Intamin, so we will have to see how this plays out! I like that they are moving away from just converting the Mean Streaks of the world into amazing rides, and trying to (further) cement themselves in the industry by offering a wider range of models for parks to choose from. Cheers to them!

Enjoy a cold one Pour one out for your homies Bam! You just bought two.

Good point, and it's not like Holiday World is getting you in other ways either. Both have gate ticket prices of $59.99, and both have online sales. Although Six Flags may want to check their math....

The most amazing Grilled Cheese "hut" (it's like a permanent cart/food truck sorta thingy) that ever was or ever will be! If I drive the 6 hours to KI and every ride is down but Tom & Chee is open it was worth the drive. Way better than Melt in my experience, although I only ate at Melt once to be fair.

Bert you will love their antique cars. They refurbed a few years ago and it was really well done. The flume is strangely good for as small as it is. Rapids nothing special but they do interact with MT. You are right that we probably won't need to get FL for Coasterstock, they generally make sure every single coaster is on ert. The only caveat to that being that it is usually in May so the Friday wasn't too bad with crowds, but this year with it being July that might be different. Although personally I consider Tom & Chee to be an attraction worthy of all the accolades.

Geauga Lake is next! Woot!

Not really. Delirium is excellent though. It's basically identical to Maxair. Also, the flume will soak you to the bone for no reason despite being tiny. Check out the patio behind the Brewhouse. It's a fantastic spot to hang out and have a drink. It's also right on the splashdown pool for Diamondback.

Yep. I'm sorry to offend anyone in denial, but our area is a shithole. It just is. It's surprising we have as good of a park as we do. If SFSTL was a true reflection of our greater metropolitan area, the entirety of it would look how it does around Superman. (Imagine living in the STL metro area combined with being an Illinois resident. FML)

I've been in the same boat, recently trying to restart my own weight management. I really packed on the pounds during the pandemic, and right around Christmastime, I was up to 290 -- the heaviest I've ever been. Since the beginning of the year, I've been on a keto diet, purchased a spinning bike for the garage, have been doing daily walks between 3 to 5 miles, and been using a Nintendo Switch game called "Fitness Boxing 2" to get additional movement in. I've also been using my Apple Watch's activity mode to track and keep myself honest; it's just a little thing but I don't want to lose my streaks. In the first four months of the year, I have dropped from 290 to 248. I'm still shooting to get under 200 by the end of the year (and hopefully in the 220-225 range by August, assuming the California theme parks are open to out-of-state visitors by then).

Interesting that they gave the new track that went on to Tremors a separate name, I would have thought that they'd just use it as an example of the versatility of normal Ibox. Unless, of course, it's actually different from Ibox in gauge as well as the shape of the track structure, which I always thought Ibox was near identical in those aspects to the traditional wood stack track. Maybe with that new method of attaching it to the structure, it's varied enough that they felt the need to differentiate with a new name. New family option would be fun, but not sure of the market for it in comparison to family rides already available, unless it's cheaper in some ways. The layout pictures would certainly be a good moderate-thrill coaster. Also interesting they're listing both the original and extended Standard Raptor layouts with 12 car trains, as even Stunt Pilot is only 10. Might make up for the loss of the third 8 car train that the prototypes had.

next up was the final day of the trip at Kings Island, but with a quick trip to Stricker's grove. here's a couple of pictures of this fun break/stop we made it who needs fencing around a ride such a fun little coaster train ride fun for all ages and the bigger coaster. time to go back to Kings island

In the meantime Soda is free at Holiday World. Six Flags is really pushing the limits here...

Unfortunately Melt isn't on the meal plan at CP....but all of you casting dispersion on it, what is wrong with you? Not only is their standard grilled cheese awesome, their grilled cheese burger is quite good and their "fried mac & cheese on a grilled cheese" is incredible. The mac & cheese side is also pretty damned good, and they're a full service bar so you can get your drink on too. Tom + Chee thankfully is on the meal plan at KI (but sadly only the standard offerings). Their most awesome, the grilled cheese donut, is not. Miami River Brewhouse is also a great food option at KI, and has the bonus of being a full service bar as well. Them, and Tom + Chee, are why I always get the all-day dining plan at KI. Just don't bother trying the pizza, neither from the one near Beast, the one in the Festhaus, nor the one on international street - it is all disgusting. The breadsticks are pretty good though.

That area does bottleneck pretty bad, and better pathways there would alleviate the other bottleneck near Echo Hollow (not nearly so bad post-Time Traveler, but still). Honestly even if that's all it is, that is a great thing for them to be doing. The scope of that wall, though....

Man, the love for Tom+Chee and Melt really fascinates me. Personally I consider those places highly overpriced piles of calories although I've never had either at a park, so perhaps what they offer under the dining plan is a good value. I could also see how these places would appeal to non-Ohioans over the usual Chick-fil-A, Panda Express, etc. A lot of people seem to rave about the blue ice cream as well. Yeah, Kings Island unsurprisingly has the feel of a corporate park, but I agree that the antique cars are not to be overlooked. Maybe take a lap on the train as well (entrance is back past Mystic Timbers), they provide some decent info about the park's history. The main takeaways I get from the park are a very respectable coaster collection, fairly reliable rides overall (highlighted by the 3 B&Ms), very efficient ride operations, and a pretty solid children's area (although beware, Flying Ace Aerial Chase will beat you up, should you choose to partake). Think grilled cheese and tomato soup. Not exactly my first choice for a meal during the hot summer, but a lot of people really enjoy it.

Absolutely second this notion! I go back and forth between this place and Melt at CP as having the better grilled cheese sandwich.

real across the chain. I can mainly speak from experience at SFFT (tho assume it's the same everywhere). as someone noted, the insane food prices are likely meant to "encourage" folks to get meal plan - it really seems like you've gotten a great deal by getting meal plan when you see your "meal" would have cost $16.99 without the plan. as to the vending machine soda/waters? yeah, that's for people who want the convenience. At SFFT, there are vending machines with $8 sodas *literally* on the side of the Iron Rattler exit store - and inside the store? 2 for $13 (yes, 1.50 cheaper for each).

Are these prices real or an exaggeration?

Whatever it is, it's sure to be the most exciting amusement park attraction added in Missouri for years to come, as history has proven.

OMG I am desperate here! No where to put this but..... heeeeyy Phil, hows it going? Starbucks.ca is announcing a new flavour in their frapps...... And it's <drool> Strawberry Funnel Cake Frappuccino! Is this Theme Park Phood, or what? (o: Thanks Phil!

actually just posted this update to my FB a little while ago: Super Stressful day at work today, but I started back on exercising, after stopping for ~3 months and putting back on ~30 lbs. only did 33 minutes, but it's 33 minutes more than yesterday! and I'll do my best to stick to it, as have just ~2 months before Kings Island (and gotta fit my ass in some coasters) and ~4 months until Dragon*con.

I'm starting the process of getting back on track and making some serious assessments of my daily habits. I was already in a bad place before the pandemic hit, and quarantine / working from home exacerbated all of my worst tendencies. My weight / health paid the price - I'm at a point where I have trouble walking up and down my street without having to sit down and rest my back. I signed up for Noom earlier because I like the approach of focusing on the psychology behind weight loss and changing habits, rather than solely focusing on the food itself. I need some serious changes in my relationship with food, how I perceive it, how I use it, and fix a lot of the underlying mental issues behind it. I'm also trying to find a therapist that specializes in food addictions as well. Here's to another first step!

Inequality is rampant in many cities, but this conversation is off course. You could discuss regional disproportionality in any city. SFStL is doing a good job of making the park available to those of any background, at least to get in. If only the prices were as forgiving once you get in the door... oompf. $14 for a turkey leg these days? $8 for a soda? How do parks defend these prices? McDonalds sells drinks for $1 any size right outside the park... those prices have got to be 95% profit for the park!

^ I think it should be called KIE-ku. Boats on the water is a nice touch.

"Yea but we didn't get ANYTHING THIS YEAR. So the park is pitiful!" (don't look at all the S&S Freespin pieces in the parking lot) It's not uncommon for rides or sections of parks to close down for future expansion. I wouldn't be too concerned considering we all know a coaster is about to be built and there are probably even more additions coming. Knowing CF completely removed Mean Streak from maps while Steel Vengeance was under construction I seriously doubt the ride is being removed (yet, it will one day). I am in agreement they chose to save money and keep it closed this season while working on whatever plans they have for that area.

^Hoping that was not another attempt at a haiku... Yay..boats. Actually I'm pretty excited for this. I enjoyed Paddlewheel.

This is how Great Adventure staff decides each morning where they should make people go to pick up their skip the line passes each day. We've had DE passes for a year now, in that time they've sent us - To the left side of the Flash pass Building - In the front door of the Flash pass building - To the right side of the Flash Pass building - To the stand next to Sky Screamer - To the stand where the mirror maze is - To a pop-up stand next to Santa's House - To a giant building in the grove nowhere near anything behind the theater that they never use The last two times they've sent us to the Flash pass building which means it's due for a change. I think the abandoned photo booth near Bizarro would be a fun way to spice things up next.

Enough of this... seriously. Everyone has made up their minds on where they stand on it and what they're comfortable with. We're 14 months in now. Nothing productive will come out of this and nobody will change anyone's mind. Let's talk about the park itself.

Together we have the power to not do this again.

You're thinking of another park. KI's site says masks are required indoors and outdoors "when social distancing isn't possible." Given the CDC's ever-changing guidance as to what counts as "social distancing," I'd say the people in the photos are good.

Hey... boats Webcams

Yep, exactly. The greater the inequality, the greater the crime. Now, whether you want to go about fixing that through poverty relief programs that raise people to a living wage, require business to pay a living wage directly, or just tax the hell out of the rich so the top tier comes down closer to the rest of us, all are ok by me. It's all relative. Reduce inequality, reduce crime!

Heres a photo put out of the construction fence that was recently put up. It now extends all the way down and around Firemans Landing and extending behind part of the smoking area in front of the old Waterboggan Tower. Let the speculation begin. lol

This is a pointless argument, go back to complaining about Mystery Mine's new track or something.

They are in the BUSINESS of entertainment. They still are a business with a P&L sheet and responsibly to investors. Their reason for existing is NOT to entertain, it is to run a successful and profitable entertainment business.

Actually, TC has been loading all rows on my last few visits.

Went yesterday (Monday). Arrived around 1pm. Parking attendant scanned our pass for parking and scanned our reservation but the time was irrelevant. Took about 20 minutes to get parked in the very back overflow lot (because most of the regular lot is still being used for vaccination distribution). After the 5-7,000 step walk to the front gate, we got in fairly easily. Love the new metal detectors that allow you to keep everything in your pockets. Park was super crowded. 1-2 hour lines for everything. Multiple trains running on all the coasters but skipping rows and sanitizing between every few cycles. Inexplicably loading 1 row per car on Goliath and Gold Rusher instead of just skipping every other row (cutting the already-cut capacity by an extra 40%). No activity at CraZanity. Food lines were insane. The line for the drink/snack stand by Tatsu's entrance stretched all the way past the game area. (Just an observation--I didn't wait in it.) Saw people waiting in what must've been hour+ lines for Member Services, Flash Pass, and Guest Relations. In fact, the line at the Flash Pass center was about 50 people deep at closing... no idea what that was about. All this to say...it was basically exactly the experience we were expecting but it's really nice having the park open again and hopefully this will drive Six Flags' revenue through the roof. X2 is still insane and awesome.

I actually sadly made a boy go to a different seat on a Larson Looper and not sit with his father all because I was too lazy to change seats. Yeah, I know better now. (I was 16!!) Plus, the ride served as punishment for what I did.

“Riders spared from full ride on Manhattan Express as train derails mid-ride”

The first time Brit and I went to Universal it was like 50 degrees. I obviously wanted to ride the flume (Ripsaw falls) and Jurassic Park River Adventure but knew that those big splash boat rides often got you soaked so I bought a poncho for that because I wanted to check out the cool animatronic dinosaurs but didn’t want to get soaked. I wore it on that and then didn’t wear it on the log flume since those usually don’t get you nearly as wet. Anyone who’s been on those rides should realize by now how badly we fucked that up.