JonnyRCT3 Posted March 8, 2014 Author Posted March 8, 2014 (edited) Mega Update! Enjoy. ____________________________ Saturday, July 2, 1988 Tom Keystone (17) - Regular guest. Valley Hills has been my favorite amusement park for nearly a decade. I first remember visiting Valley Hills back in 1979 with my Mother, Father and four siblings. Valley Hills has seen many notable additions over the past 9 years. Such as Towering Inferno, Wild Waters & the new Gladiator. Nothing new as added this year, but I still decided to take a trip down to get my dosage of world class thrills. Parachute Tower has become a mandatory shot nowadays. The ride was great, although I remember enjoying it more when I was a child. Rumor has it that GreeBrier Grill is going to be renovated sometime soon. The service here has improved somewhat over the years, all that's needed is some much needed decor upgrades. Sun Spin is great for thrill seekers. This contraption always makes me sick, so it was a no-go for me. Apple Twists & Music Box are both great family rides. I consider them more of a steeping-stone for the big thrill rides. Kanawha Railway maxes out on 2 trains nowadays. It used to be the star attraction, with 1 hour waits with a 3 train operation. I remember when this view used to be of the park outskirts. This is still the best part of the ride in my opinion. The train beginning to crawl, just before plummeting into a sub-terrain tunnel (which is now under the midway). By around noon, I was brave enough to conquer Towering Inferno. This free-fall attraction still manages a 40 minute wait, still popular as ever. Towering Inferno left my gut feeling empty, making Allegheny Hall too convenient. Two giant pretzels & a large sweet tea for only $3.99, steal! This was the only shot I was able to get of Bluegrass Theater. I've seen all six performances, so it has become a stale attraction for me. Buccaneer still delivers those great pockets of airtime. One of my favorite flat rides. With temperatures reaching nearly 95° F, Wild Waters became the ideal attraction. $5 an hour for a pint-sized locker? I don't think so... I'll take the risk. The line was just beginning to pick up once I entered the queue. The line was just under 30 minutes for me. By the time I exited the ride, it was well over an hour wait. Lucky! This was the only shot I was able to manage. That drop is stellar, and provides some good floater air in the back. Was not in the mood for Monster. Pass. Gladiator is still the new hotness, and the talk of the park. It certainly lives up to the hype. Great coaster! By around 4, it was time to slug to the other side of the park. This is Valley Hills biggest downfall. Transportation rides are a MUST for a park like this. West Virginia Turnpike has remained unchanged after all these years. Yet it still remains popular among the families. A timeless classic. With Scrambler only having a 10 minute wait, I decided "why not?" I need a break from the 90 degree temperatures. Cobble Stone Cafe's picnic area is truly a life saver. I was surprised to see this place so deserted. I guess what the GP don't know won't hurt them. (The root beer here is as good as ever.) I passed on Trout Spin & Dodge 'Em, the crowds were picking up and I didn't want to wait forever in RattleSnake's queue. (someones exited) Finally, my favorite ride of all time. RattleSnake! RattleSnake's station provides some excellent photo ops. The back seat of RattleSnake is my personal favorite. You get slung over all the hills and curves, maximizing on forces. This ride has a slight edge over Gladiator, mainly due to the more comfy & less restrictive restraints. I was beginning to feel a bit nostalgic, and decided to take a look around Kid Town. So many great memories here! I saw some surveyors in the old Rotor location today. Things may look different next season. Who knows? It may just be nothing... Tom Keystone. Edited March 9, 2014 by JonnyRCT3
tarheel1231 Posted March 8, 2014 Posted March 8, 2014 I hope the park gets some sort of transportation such as a skyride in the near future.
yay101 Posted March 15, 2014 Posted March 15, 2014 Great job! Can't wait to see what goes in the Rotor's place! Maybe a Wisdom Gravitron, if those were around back then?
JonnyRCT3 Posted March 16, 2014 Author Posted March 16, 2014 I hope the park gets some sort of transportation such as a skyride in the near future. Well... Great job! Can't wait to see what goes in the Rotor's place! Maybe a Wisdom Gravitron, if those were around back then? Thank you for the feedback & compliment, it really means a lot. I don't think a Gravitron would be necessary, due to Vortex's existence. I may look into this...
JonnyRCT3 Posted March 16, 2014 Author Posted March 16, 2014 Friday, September 1, 1989 John Kline ~ park operations manager. I've watched this grow from a small town amusement park into the regional tourists destination. This season marks the end of my 17 year tenure here at Valley Hills as I will be stepping down as park operations manager. Fortunately, Valley Hills is already processing applicants for my position, and are also looking into hiring a park publicists that will take over the photo updates. In my final season, Valley Hills offers two brand new attractions for guests. I look at this as a farewell gift. (Today the sun was constantly behind the clouds, making this weather more enjoyable.) New for 1989, Valley Lift. The western station is in the former Rotor location. Riders are lifted 75' into the sky for a scenic view of Valley Hills. Valley Lift connects the Rattle Snake & Gladiator midways together. Now guests can enjoy Rattle Snake, Gladiator and other attractions without a lengthy walk in between. The eastern station (next to Gladiator) has fitting design for the area, matching both Allegheny Hall & Wild Waters. Next to the eastern station, guests are greeted by the all new PHOENIX. Phoenix is an Intamin condor attraction that towers approximately 100' above the midway. Guests will find a unique spinning thrill on this million-dollar attraction, complete with fire pyrotechnics. Such a photogenic ride, especially at night. Gladiator in action. Gladiator speeds past the queue at approximately 35 M.P.H. Creating an adrenaline pumping experience for both riders a waiting guests. (Phoenix is noticeable from nearly anywhere) Departing from the eastern station of Valley Lift; getting one final look of the Gladiator midway. Valley Lift was one of many proposals for the 1989 season. It was ultimately decided that a transportation ride was indeed needed to reduce congestion & guest fatigue. The ride was relatively cheap, and occupies a very small plot of land; enough for future attraction(s) to be built. Now guests can enjoy all of what Valley Hills has to offer, without the hassle. Valley Lift provides both a tranquil ride experience & a mode of transportation for visitors. Valley Hills has seen unforeseen growth during the 80's and I'm sure the 90's will bring even more world class thrills. With attendance for the first time reaching 1,000,000 (one-million), I have no doubt that my second home will continue to prosper. ~John Kline~
tarheel1231 Posted March 16, 2014 Posted March 16, 2014 I liked this update, though John Kline will be stepping down. Good luck to him!
JonnyRCT3 Posted March 17, 2014 Author Posted March 17, 2014 I liked this update, though John Kline will be stepping down. Good luck to him! Thanks for the feedback. John Kline had a good run, but I think it's time for something new. I'v already planned the next update, and the next 10 or so years. I won't reveal much. However BIG things are in the works!
IrishCasual Posted March 17, 2014 Posted March 17, 2014 A wood coaster perhaps? The park needs one. I'm really loving Valley Lift. Makes a great addition to the park.
tarheel1231 Posted March 17, 2014 Posted March 17, 2014 A Churro Factory? Two Churro Factories? Three? Five? PLEASE BE A CHURRO FACTORY!
JonnyRCT3 Posted March 20, 2014 Author Posted March 20, 2014 (edited) Devin Smith - Park Spokesperson We've been getting a lot of feedback from our subscribers. We at Valley Hills want to ensure our readers that you're opinions are heard. A wood coaster perhaps? The park needs one. I'm really loving Valley Lift. Makes a great addition to the park. Hello, IrishCasual. Sorry, Valley Hills does not disclose information for future attractions. However, roller Coasters have always been a big draw for the park and so they are always considered. The park has been keeping an eye on the Dinn Corporation's & Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters' projects. We are always looking for the next best thing, whether it be wooden coasters, steel coasters, or even electrical equipment [laughs]. A Churro Factory? Two Churro Factories? Three? Five? PLEASE BE A CHURRO FACTORY! Dear tarheel1231, Unfortunately, Churros are not currently offered here at Valley Hills. However, the Valley Market is an ever-changing pavilion, so it is possible a Churro vendor could show up. Edited March 20, 2014 by JonnyRCT3
JonnyRCT3 Posted March 20, 2014 Author Posted March 20, 2014 (edited) Monday, May 28, 1990 The Valley Subscription - SPRING ISSUE Devin Smith - NEW Park Spokesperson Hello all, and thanks for for choosing the Valley Subscription. So much has happened at the Valley (as I like to call it) this past off-season, and I'm excited to share all the happenings. The Valley has some rich history from the past 18 seasons. From the humble beginnings of a small town amusement park, to the potential closure in the early-80's, and the current era of redevelopment with attendance surging into seven-digit figures. The Valley has two new members on board this year. The new park Operations Manager & Chief Financial officers are hard at work, promising CHANGE. The first thing you'll notice when entering the park is the completely redesigned entrance plaza, a fresh start into the 1990's. This newly redesigned GreenBrier Grill stands opposite to it's old location, in the former Carousel location. (Carousel has since been removed) The Grill is already training their staff with the registers. The first 100 guests to participate received a coupon for a free medium drink at one of our fine vendors. The new building features an all new modern design with increased square footage to accommodate the ever-growing crowds. The Grand re-opening has been pushed back two weeks due to damaged kitchen appliances during shipping. New parts have been ordered and are expected to arrive later this week. In the former GreenBrier Grill location, Mountaineer Wheel makes it debut on the entrance plaza. Mountaineer Wheel is the relocated & re-branded Mountain View, which previously operated next to Cobblestone Cafe. Mountaineer Wheel sits in the heart of the re-designed entrance plaza. Valley Market is an all new showcase pavilion for local businesses who can market & sell their products. Valley Hills has always been community focused, and shows no signs of hesitation when it comes to supporting it. From atop Mountaineer Wheel; a better view is provided of the Valley Market. Currently, each business has a 3 month lease on this part of the property. This business decision comes from the new CFO who finds this extremely profitable for the Park, City & businesses. [This is also part of a new policy incorporated into the parks contract with the City.] Valley Market has become quite popular, with three new contracts signed this month. Valley Hills partnership with the community is becoming quite strong. Last season, the entrance to Mountain View (now relocated & re-branded as Mountaineer Wheel) stood here. The old Mountain View site is now occupied by the newly expanded Cobblestone Cafe picnic area. The line between early & mid season crowds is becoming blurred. Attendance has really picked up these last two seasons as last year's ticket sales set a new record. With a total of 1,067,411 admission ticket sales, that was the first time attendance has ever reached one million at Valley Hills! Next time, in the Summer Issue, more on this new development within the park. (former Games site) Edited March 30, 2014 by JonnyRCT3
tarheel1231 Posted March 22, 2014 Posted March 22, 2014 Great article! I like how the park focused on little things here and there to spruce up the park a little.
JonnyRCT3 Posted March 24, 2014 Author Posted March 24, 2014 Great article! I like how the park focused on little things here and there to spruce up the park a little. Thank you for your feedback, tarheel1231 Valley Hills is always focusing on ways to improve the guests experience here. By the way, a restaurant that serves Churros has become interested in setting up shop at the Valley Market. Devin Smith - Park Spokesperson
JonnyRCT3 Posted March 24, 2014 Author Posted March 24, 2014 (edited) Monday, July 16, 1990 SUMMER ISSUE Devin Smith - Park Spokesperson Valley Hills has [so far] seen another record setting season, with park revenue up 10% compared to this time last year. With the introduction of family, adult, and group tickets [ which have replaced the old single ticket system], ticket sales have grown exponentially. The new management team is hard at work to improve all of what Valley Hills has to offer. We are currently planning to increase attendance by at least 30% within the next 8 years. Towering Inferno provides a great view for our maintenance crews. The entire Gladiator midway is visible from here. Riders drop approximately 100 feet for 2.8 seconds on Towering Inferno. An adrenaline rush for even the most seasoned enthusiast. Kid Town features an all new excursion this year. The Mighty Tug, a family oriented attraction, takes riders on a spinning riverboat adventure. Families can enjoy this moderate thrill ride, complete with authentic steam and within close proximity of the creek; further enhancing the experience. Kid Town has received the local W.V. Blue Ribbon for Best Family Oriented Children's attraction. Families will enjoy their time here, Camden Park's pales in comparison. Valley Hills has plenty to offer for everyone. A mild thrill can be experienced on Monster, or an intense chill on Phoenix. Or cool off on West Virginia's largest water attraction, Wild Waters. Complete with two grand splash areas and a tranquil winding course. Buccaneer is a great way to beat the heat as well. Only the bravest riders will be able to stand up to Gladiator, America's second longest Stand Up coaster (behind the newly opened Iron Wolf at 2,900 feet). Valley Hills tallest & fastest roller coaster, Rattle Snake! With over 2000 feet of slithering track, Rattle Snake takes riders on a tail rattling adventure! More on that "new development" from the Spring Issue. Now guests can purchase $8 tickets and enter to win an all new 1990 Dodge Dakota. Ballots close on August 31. West Virginia Turnpike, GreenBrier Grill & Scrambler are also pictured. (taken atop Parachute Tower) Valley Hills is currently conducting a limited time poll in relation to a future attraction. We wan't to know your opinions! SURVEY Survey over Devin Smith - Park Spokesperson Edited March 30, 2014 by JonnyRCT3
JonnyRCT3 Posted March 24, 2014 Author Posted March 24, 2014 (edited) Monday, July 30, 1990 CHARLESTON GAZETTE Tierco Group, Inc., will acquire Valley Hills for $43.1 million. Valley Hills & Tierco Group, Inc. finalized their deal yesterday. Tierco Group, Inc. has been interested in the property for almost two years, and with Valley Hills growing debt, this acquisition becomes more logical. Tierco Group, Inc. is looking forward to operating Valley Hills and is already taking necessary steps for the turnover. Valley Hills also held a private meeting with the city board yesterday, regarding approval for a new 100 foot attraction for next year. Its estimated cost if over $4 million. Park Spokesperson, Devin Smith, says the Park has "no idea of where these rumors are coming from". However he noted that Tierco Group, Inc. has indeed purchased the property and the park will continue to operate normally for the rest of the season. Next year, management will be officially fully turned over to Tierco. Devin also noted that "Tierco isn't the first company to approach us, however, the board of directors felt this was the ideal company since they are dedicated to the amusement industry." I asked "Valley Hills has ushered in a new era of management, what will this mean for the future of the park?" Devin responded "Tierco already has a full portfolio of improvements & innovations for the park, and we are all looking forward to it!" Jon Dive, editor. Edited March 25, 2014 by JonnyRCT3
Geauga Dog Posted March 24, 2014 Posted March 24, 2014 Tierco became Premier which became Six Flags. I hope valley Hills doesn't turn into Six Flags West Virginia later on.
JonnyRCT3 Posted March 25, 2014 Author Posted March 25, 2014 (edited) Devin Smith - Park Spokesperson Special Edition - Wednesday, August 29, 1990 A lot of commotion has been going on lately here at Valley Hills. And I don't just mean our $43.1 million purchase from Tierco Group, Inc. It's been quite noisy around the park. But where on earth is all this noise coming from? Things look calm on Valley Lift. Nothing noticeable at Kid Town. Families are enjoying their time on both Sky Slide & The Mighty Tug. There it is! This has been the source of all that commotion. West Virginia Turnpike has seen better days. The station & queue of W.V. Turnpike is being razed! What will this mean for the future of the ride? And why is this happening to this classic attraction!? First the ride's station is missing and now trees! What on earth could be happening!? .....celA, nosaes txen rof ffo gnikcik eb tsum sgnihT Devin Smith - Park Spokesperson it's coming... Edited March 25, 2014 by JonnyRCT3
IrishCasual Posted March 25, 2014 Posted March 25, 2014 ''Things must be kicking off for next season.'' Ooh...
tarheel1231 Posted March 25, 2014 Posted March 25, 2014 The park is adding a SUPER Churro Factory! In all seriousness, I think it could be a wooden coaster.
JonnyRCT3 Posted March 26, 2014 Author Posted March 26, 2014 Devin Smith - Park Spokesperson ''Things must be kicking off for next season.'' Ooh... Yes indeed, IrishCasual. Some areas of the park will look much different, very soon. The park is adding a SUPER Churro Factory! In all seriousness, I think it could be a wooden coaster. Dear tarheel1231, Well, I don't know about SUPER [laughs]. However, a contract has been signed and Uncle Joe's Churros will be serving hot & fresh churros next season at the Valley Market. Soon, very soon. Your curiosity will be no more.
JonnyRCT3 Posted March 26, 2014 Author Posted March 26, 2014 Friday, September 21, 1990 Charleston Gazette Rising above the skyline is this crane... Eleventy stories some say. Inconclusive hints are about, even now, driving some insane... Now everyone is pondering W.V Turnpikes stay. Sometime soon.....shall we become.....tame? ...rof emit tsomla s'ti ,celA -Valley Hills
IrishCasual Posted March 27, 2014 Posted March 27, 2014 ''Alec, it's almost time for...'' WOODEN COASTER, HOORAY
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