I, too, am addicted to The Beast. My son and I got our first night ride in last time we went on 7/15. It was so much more fun in the dark! The ride was the smoothest we've ever had as well!
It was implemented on Sunday when we were there. My 4 yr old was playing in the 2 inch water in front of my wife when a lifeguard came up and told her he had to put on a life jacket.
I was there yesterday and closed yet again. In the 7 years this thing has been around, I've NEVER ridden because it's ALWAYS closed when I go. I think I'm cursed, lol.
Glad to hear you had a good time. Are you sure it wasn't your first visit since 2000 though? Because Son of Beast didn't open until May 26, 2000 and you said you miss the loop.
Anyway, nice little report.