timberskara

Thanks for sharing. Even though I can't see using this all the time (I'm not THAT big of a nerd!), I think it'd be cool to give it a try. I'll let you know how it goes!

Somehow I very much doubt that! In the amusement industry everything happens for a reason-- just like anywhere else there are schedules and deadlines. Also, like anywhere else, there are things that come up and get in the way. I'm sure "the announcement" (if there is one!) is their #1 priority right now

True facts, Mike. And hey, don't knock Excalibur-- it's classic Arrow goodness

If indeed this was the flume's last season, it was a good one. I saw the queue mostly full all of the time! The flume is one of the rides from the park's early days and supposedly designed by one of the former owners, so it is sad to think about the possibility of losing it-- but no one can disagree that it takes up a TON of space. Matt's right in that the waterpark has needed expansion for a number of years and there just really aren't that many options (Flume, Imax or Excalibur)...so if the rumors are true, I know I won't be angry about it.

Great to hear about your much-anticipated first TPR trip! Looks like a fun time with waaaaaay too many cameras around-- err..I mean...coaster nerds unite through digital awesomeness! I will admit, though, that I give you mad props for the second to last Behemoth photo. It makes me tingle and I don't even know why .

Aw, thanks for posting. Personally, I love that place! It's not the biggest or the best-- but it's not supposed to be, either. Timbers is awesome, the waterpark is like no other and they've got a good collection of fun flats. Can't wait to visit when I spend a few days in MI in a couple of weeks .

I've never been to the park, but I can't say I'm surprised. I called their info line about 1-1.5 months ago to ask what months they would be operating in 2009 and they had no idea-- literally no idea at that point if they were going to be a year-round park or a seasonal park. Sure it's the first season and maybe they wanted to see how it goes, but I would think that when you are creating a brand new park you would have planned for it to be either seasonal or year-round operation. It's kind of an important thing for a business to know not just future guests trying to make plans, but for staffing, budgets, etc. I hope they can pull through.

I'll admit, it's pretty sad when all of your friends and co-workers excitedly come tell you of a coaster riding contest that "you would totally win!" And while I unfortunately don't think it's possible for me to participate, I'm hoping there is some TPR'er out there who can ! Here's the deal... a local radio station is sponsoring a coaster riding contest on Avatar Airbender (Intamin Halfpipe) at the Mall of America. They are taking 12 riders and-- while I don't know the specific rules and regulations-- you win some crazy good stuff if you outlast the other riders: --Airfare and a 7 day Royal Caribbean cruise for 4 to Mexico in the Ben & Jerry's suite (Mmmm ice cream) --$1000 spending money --A "Golden Lifetime Pass" for a family of four to Nick Universe Check it out for yourself The thing that struck me as weird about this is, in theory, it should be WAY easier than other contests like this in the past. For one, it's only 12 people total which would mean pretty good odds. Secondly, it's freaking INSIDE! No scorching heat, no rain or cold...nothing. I guess my question is if they are closing the ride to the public (capacity is only 12 to begin with), will they just cycle the thing non-stop until "break time?" I would think not, but if so I would bet people would drop like flies in no time. SO...any takers? I would totally come cheer you on! And while I don't expect half of the prize winnings, I wouldn't say no

Thanks for posting this-- the Dells have been a long-time favorite place for me and it's crazy fascinating to see where the lake used to be. Looks like it was nice weather for some waterpark action!

First off, congrats on the certification! I can't say for sure about the parks you specifically mentioned, but every park I've ever worked for has had EMT's on staff. In my experience, EMT's are usually hired in as part of the security department and are generally assigned to First Aid (but not everyone in First Aid is necessarily an EMT). Day-to-day duties may not be all that exciting-- anything from drug screening employees to dealing with a lot of dehydration cases-- but from time to time get to do the exciting stuff. There probably aren't a ton of openings at parks because there aren't that many positions to begin with, but with all of the FL parks to choose from you may have some luck. Best wishes

Sounds like you have most of it planned out pretty well, so good luck with that and take lots of photos ! One thing I just wanted to mention-- the Lake Express ferry that runs from Muskegon, MI (about 15 mins from where MIA is) across the lake to Milwaukee. Sounds like you're going to be doing a lot of driving, and I know from experience the drive from West MI to the Dells to the Twin Cities is pretty crappy. You can do the ferry one-way and bring your vehicle on it. It's quick, helps you avoid the Chicago mess and is an overall fun experience. Definitely not a must, but something you may want to look into if interested. If you are driving from West MI to the Dells, I'd recommend a stop at Little Amerricka. It's in Marshall, MN and only 10 minutes (if that) off of the route. Crazy traditional park with a few fun rides and an experience of a lifetime. See you at coaster craze!

While I've only been on the one at Knoebels, I, too, love these carousels and wish there were more around. This thread made me remember that there's a decent song by Dispatch called "Flying Horses" that talks about "stealing" the ring from the flying horses. Give it a listen if you're interested!

Wow-- I am speechless. That is crazy, creepy, awsome and yummy all at the same time! But ummm..... What happens if the power goes out? No mo' Dippin' Dots!

Awesome vid, guys! It's kind of cool to see how Robb and Elissa's videos have "evolved" over the years. I don't know how many times I watched the 2001 VHS tape (my first), but this has the same fun and carefree footage and music like the rest...and now with a larger "cast of characters." Something you could definitely watch over and over and over again! Oh, and this makes me REALLY miss Indiana Beach -- what a fun place .

I have to admit that I couldn't read this whole thread because I am far too terrified of tornadoes, but wanted to share my experiences. In 1990, a F5 hit Planfield, IL where my extended family lives and where my dad grew up. It destroyed much of the town, including my dad's high school. My family was there the day after the storm to help in any way possible. I was five, and it was by far the scariest thing of my entire life. From then on, when I was in IL, any howling of the wind and I was in the basement. I just had this crazy fear of another tornado hitting. Because I got to see the damage first hand right after the '90 tornado, I think it forever made me scared...and unfortunately that fear hasn't gone away. Luckily, being from Michigan, I didn't have to worry much about tornadoes...but when I worked at Cedar Point we frequently had water spouts. I had heard the park had water spouts on occassion, and I pictured just little "dust devil" size funnels of water in the lake. Umm..noo..these were from the lake to the clouds, half a mile wide or more scary, scary waterspouts. I remember working unload on MF, doing the welcome back spiel, and having all the guests scream at me that there were three tornadoes in the water. Of course, they dissapated once they reached land, but it was sheer panic across the park whenever there were waterspouts. Then, last summer, I made the big move to MN. No joke, the day after I signed my lease the tornado sirens went off (not a drill) while I was shopping. It was kind of a surreal moment for me because I was like "NOW they tell me they're tornadoes here!" In a way I guess I'm happy I learned of the whole "tornadoes in Minnesota" thing after I made the move because, in all honesty, I wouldn't have done it if I had known. Yeah, tornadoes have got to be my biggest fear -- I won't even ride Twister at Universal . I can certainly understand the fascination in natural disasters, but storm chasers are CRAZY. Anyway, if no one has mentioned it, read about the Plainfield tornado. About a million things went "wrong" -- it was actually several tornadoes that came together to form a giant, powerful tornado. Warnings were late because it was difficult to spot. About the only "lucky" thing that happened is that classes were not yet in session at the high school when it struck...they started the next day. Thanks in advance for tonight's nightmares!

I'm sorry to hear about the unfortunate events of your visit, but it's great to hear that it was handled well. Sounds like the staff had excellent service on all levels, for sure. This definitely reminded me of the day I passed out at a park from dehydration. Nowadays it's always in the back of my mind reminding me to drink tons of water when in a similar circumstance-- lesson learned! 98 degrees though, really? Man, I am in the wroooooonnng state .

It was great to spend some more time at the park last night when lines were minimal. Always fun to hang out with fellow TPR'ers, too! "Welcome back riders, ORANGE you glad you rode the Pepsi Orange Streak?" By the way, I did find it strange that NU Stuff scanned my annual pass and handed me the wristband. I had to ask for a sticky to get it on my wrist. Technically I could've gotten the wristband and given it to someone else...yes, I wouldn't be able to ride, but...you know. Kudos to the SB crew-- they were dispatching one right after another all night long and they also have a great new system for loose articles...YAY crew!

Great TR, Chuck! It just wouldn't be right without it being cold and rainy. Heck, I dare say I love hoodie and layers park weather! I should sure hope he would appreciate it! I love how the park photo person is just standing there...how is she not taking a (million) shot(s) of it? That would be a 100% sale if I ever saw one. Thanks for sharing..even if it was a crappy day, you can't beat the reaction and that moment you captured. :sniff:

^ I realize this and it certainly isn't my intention to provoke anything. But seriously, I kept blurting out random phrases like this yesterday and then paused to think about what I was saying. Check...er...namechange, please!

Thanks for the comments, everyone! I guess I wasn't aware how tempermental the Euro Fighters really were. It is especially strange to think about in this situation because the "weather factor" has been elimintated. Let's hope SB can deliver more rides than it will disappoint. I agree that the SpongeBob name is...an interesting choice. It doesn't really bother me, but I admit I feel a little awkward talking about how I "like to ride SpongeBob in the back," or "am excited I can ride SpongeBob 364 days a year." Whoops! It's kind of hard to wrap my head around that I don't need to fall victim to the "offseason blues" anymore...I can't wait to get to NU when it's less busy and ride more and more!

Larry, thanks for sharing all of your WCB photos-- it looks like you had a lot of fun! I'm definitely jealous of everyone who got to go to that event. Um...are you kidding me on the Tilt-a-Whirl thing? That's the coolest thing ever! I, too, would love to see more about that in the future. I'm not deaf, but took 7 semesters of ASL in college and love everything about the language and culture. Too bad I'm getting rusty now .

Nice coverage-- I especially like the Splat-O-Sphere photos! Although I really liked the EASY (S&S please take note!) seatbelts on the tower...it was weird how the restraints didn't have handles. Especially weird if you're a chick and the ride op has to practically feel you up to "pull up" on the restraint. Also funny how it says "lapbars" in the auto spiel. I was all sorts of confused between the seatbelts, otsrs and lapbars .

I had SO much fun today for no real good reason other than riding fun rides with fun people during the "offseason." A brief overview... I arrived around 8:20am and watched the opening ceremonies that took place a little after 9am. Went to SB first thing (of course!) and watched the teen Nick celebs ride and then got on in 5-10 minutes once the ride opened. I cannot lie, the first ride on SB was really disappointing for me. I wasn't even hyping it in my head, I just wanted it to be fun. But seriously, it wasn't. Even the park guests next to me said "This is so SLOW!" during the ride and then "Well, that was a waste" in the brake run. I remember thinking I would rather ride Mad Mouse at VF. It was slow, shaky and lame without any real great moments. It's hard for me to process my thoughts about this first ride, though, because LUCKILY it got much, much better! My second ride was the fun ride I was looking for in the first place. My third (in the back row) was more "Wow this is amazingly awesome." I cannot tell you how happy I am it redeemed itself. I was totally ready to come on TPR and call out everyone who liked it as a liar . Avatar is a great ride. I absolutely loved it and am very excited to have it close by. It's a shame it's so low-capacity, but I know that I will have plenty of chances to get some good rides in on it. I laughed throughout the entire ride, it was so fun. And looking out of the ceiling that is two feet from your head is very cool! I was actually really impressed with Splat-o-Sphere. I would best describe it as a "toned-down, kid-friendly version of Tower of Terror." The ride program is interesting and, even after watching it while in line, kept me guessing throughout the ride. Basically you don't know when you are going to drop, how far you will drop, how far you will shoot back up, so on and so forth. Great fun for all ages! A big thank you to everyone who made today so fun! Finding a parking spot was a NIGHTMARE! Luckily I wasn't the only idiot there so early, the Ashlee fans out-geeked me! Where the opening ceremonies took place The man himself! He kept the crowd entertained with his mad dancing skillz Getting things rollin' -- the Nick DJ and (I believe) Pres. & Vice Pres of MOA Crazy Nick characters Fun balloons! The boys from Naked Bros Band getting ready to ride -- funny kids! More Nick stars They totally should've hired Robb to duct tape his camera to the ride...talent in the back row and crew in the from row here. The two guys were holding the camera and mic over their heads...classy! Those darn celebs rode twice...hopefully NU got their money's worth Fun ride! Avatar! HUMAN AIR GATES READY GO! Seriously they were doing this all day and it looked pretty ridiculous. Hopefully they come up with a better solution For all you Intamin/Allen Bradley control panel fans out there (or new shiny uniform fans, I suppose) I could get used to this... Obligatory Ashlee Simpson walk-by photo A brief side story: During the opening ceremonies the DJ was trying to get the crowd excited and it went a little something like this: DJ: Who's ready to meet SpongeBob and Dora?!?! Crowd: Moderate cheering. DJ: Who's ready to see the Naked Bros Band, (little?) JJ and iCarly?!?! Crowd: Loud cheering DJ: And who's ready for the Ashlee Simpson live concert?!?! Crowd: *crickets churping* Seriously, I was happy I was close enough to hear all the MOA staff crack up at the crowd's reaction. Wooooo Ashlee! Anyway... "Awesome new themeing wall...wait, it's still wet!" Feeling blue? Group shot while waiting in line for SB "Oh look, there's a convenient SB support for me to make out with" Stalkerish undercover escalator shot We were playing coaster and amusement park A-Z to make the line go faster when we got stuck on a coater with a "Q" Hey, looking it up on RCDB is cheating! Fairly Odd people on the Fairly Odd Coaster (kidding!) SB themeing "I wonder if they're real?" "No, they are not." We were suprised even the shells had autospiels..."Welcome to Nickelodeon Universe!!!!! This shell needs to be returned to it's proper place or you will be evicted from the park. Have a great day!" Yes, I (reluctantly) purchased an annual pass. I know I will love having it and hey, I could be addcited to worse things right? RIGHT?!? I really enjoyed the park. I'm not a native Minnesotan so I don't have strong opinions on the whole transformation, but I definitely look forward to having it around. Thanks for reading!

Okay, so there weren't as many people interested as I thought...whoops! But, for those of us around, let's try and meet up. I'll just go ahead and say 1pm. For you die hards in the morning, catch some lunch and come meet up. For everyone else, just be sure to allow a long time for parking at the mall-- it's going to be crazy! How about at the top of the steps near Guest Relations on the upper deck? Respond if you're game! Anyone doing the VIP thing tomorrow night?

The Spider is actually from Michigan's Adventure! It was, by far, my favorite ride when I was young. I have SO many memories of riding that with my parents or brothers and giggling throughout the entire thing. Annnnnd yes, it somewhat disturbs me that it has been on his property for years now . BTW, for you non-believers out there, there's an autographed photo of him in the office buildings at Michigan's Adventure to prove it.