Hawaiian Coasters 325

I mean we have an ACE event coming up in a couple weeks. That's sorta the Coasterstock "replacement". However, won't be the same. Tony should just stick with Cedar Point. There needs to be someone at the park level with boots on the ground thinking outside the box like Don was. Anyone know what Paul Bonifield is up to these days after being let go from the corporate planning and design team? I honestly think he would be a great PR/Marketing person at the park and he could help out with teaser campaigns and theming planning for future attractions and experiences.

Like I said before this could end up being another Haunt location in the future. Im keeping my mind open so Im not disappointed.

Here's a very interesting statement by the park to Dayton Daily News: “Kings Island has received approval to remove the remaining remnants of the former Son of Beast roller coaster,” said the spokesperson. “At this time, we do not have any future plans for the site that we are ready to announce, but we continue to evaluate opportunities that support the park’s growth and guest experience.” The phrase "that we are ready to announce" tends to translate to "something is happening and an announcement is coming in the future". I believe Cedar Point used that phrase with Mean Streak after it closed as well as Top Thrill Dragster. Now before everyone gets excited, I'd keep your expectations in check as it very well if anything could be another Haunt or something. Link to article: https://www.daytondailynews.com/local/kings-island-says-rumors-it-is-demolishing-former-son-of-beast-ride-station-are-false/article_d5350816-cfc3-5afd-ac84-f69d2465cd33.html

Sounds like the demolition permit is for a sprinkler system and the structure will remain. https://www.cincinnati.com/story/entertainment/2026/07/28/kings-island-son-of-beast-roller-coaster-remnant-to-stay/91076510007/ why keep it though? It hasn't been used for Haunt in over half a decade now and is a literal eyesore.

Also heard from multiple people that despite the huge crowds that were definitely anticipated there were still several drink stations closed causing lines at the ones that were open to back up siginificantly as well as at the food stands. I saw one comment on facebook saying they had to wait in a huge line at potato works just to get a drink bc the other drink stands closeby were closed. That's inexcusable and a fireable offense by upper management! It's one thing to have drink stands closed on dead weekdays, but on a Saturday in July when several companies are doing their picnic that day and are giving out drink passes for attendees?! That's completely inexcusable! Also heard a rumor (idk if true) that one of the companies also offered Fast Lane passes which would explain the pic I saw of Diamondback's Fast Lane line spilling out onto the midway. I may sound entitled for saying this, but in my honest opinion if guests are waiting more than 20 minutes in the Fast Lane line, you've oversold the passes!

The fact that Tony Clark basically hinted at it being the last year makes me wonder why they did it anyway. I knew that with them likely knowing it being the last year of Carnivale, they'd use it as an excuse to water it down even more. I really hope that the under this new CEO and COO that they really take a long look at these events and actually focus on growing them rather then sticking their foot in the water and either stop doing the event entirely after one or 2 years or cutting back year after year. I also hope Mr. Reilly actually comes out to see Grand Carnivale and that he takes note at how watered down it has gotten and that he listens to guest feedback. However, I still think even if they offer to improve Carnivale to back how it was in 2019 if not better, it would be a hard sell to KI loyals who is far used to Carnivale as is so I still think it is time for a separation from Carnivale and to try something new. Like I don't see how the KI fanbase can get into another year of the same event calendar even if they promise to invest more money into putting on these events at full potential. Like if they come out in March/April of 2027 with the exact same events calendar with no changes whatsoever, I think there will be more backlash and disappointment from longtime KI fans than excitment and I hope those in charge at the park and corporate level recognize that these guests are ready for a change. Every event over the last couple of years especially Carnivale has had more "they should've done this or this would've been better or look they cut this" rather than "I'm looking forward to going to this event again." At this point, I think it may be time for a new special events manager/team with fresh minds that are more willing to think outside the box and push for more. Like Cedar Point in the same state and the same chain has had more thought put into their peak summer events. I can't see why KI can't.

Someone on Reddit was able to explore some of the station and queue area with permission by the park recently. Kinda surreal to see how overgrown it is over there. https://www.reddit.com/r/rollercoasters/s/5TGLC6ZIqK

It's listed as a demolition permit under "record type"

If they are in fact tearing down the SOB station, I hope they also take the time and remove the old queue rails and clean up that whole area basically making the overlook area like it was when Top Gun/The Bat first opened.

I actually took a survey from the park a few days ago and part of it was they had a list of possible enhancements to the park and had me rank my top 3. One of the options listed was a mini "sphere" theatre with seating. There was no concept art or anything, but what I have in mind is a much smaller Las Vegas sphere type theatre. I'd be all for that as long as it isn't dark for the peak summer season like the KI Theater is.

That was probably the most creative and fun announcement video I've ever seen and it's hard to top Banshee's announcement video. You can tell everyone had a great time making this video! I really hope those kids (and adults too) used in the video get the first ride on it when it opens!

And everyone grilled Cedar Point and Zamperla with Top Thrill 2 saying they should've gone with Intamin...Newsflash! Intamin can't even get a mid size water ride/coaster to WORK!

Wait it costs more than Thunderbird? Must be a major addition!

I want to clarify by saying, I myself have yet to have a bad KI food experience to where I can't finish what I eat. I've enjoyed everything I've had at KI. However, I will say the food isn't as good as it was under Chef Major and over the last few years, I have seen numerous complaints about food being undercooked, food being left out under the lamp too long, food being overcooked, among other things that really take away from the guest experience. While some of that stuff is at the fault of the food employees, the fact it continues to happen despite all the complaints comes down to training/management which falls on the executive chef. Things like portion sizes, no ice in the machines, watered down drinks, machines being out of drinks is a budget thing while things like properly preparing, cooking, and/or storing food has nothing to do with budget. That's a management/training issue.

Curious if Joseph stepped down, got the boot, or was promoted/demoted? While I hate to see anyone lose their job, I cannot deny that food quality has declined at KI in recent years. Just look at posts/comments on the KI pass group/other fansites including on here.