CoasterBuzz turns 15!

That is an interesting point now that you mention it. Never even thought of that.

(Edited to delete negative off topic rant)

Yeah, 2000 was the pinnacle for me. I was anticipating both Millennium Force and SOB, following their construction daily, and wound up making a several day excursion that landed me at Hershey, CP for 2 days, and Kings Island. Later that year I hit IoA, Busch Tampa and SFoG. Local trips to Kings Dominion, Busch Williamsburg and SFA capped off that season for a total of 57 coasters.

I think it was probably TTD in 2003, and to a lesser extent KK in 2005 that made me realize that nothing would likely ever match my excitement for 2000's big coasters.

I tend to agree. Dragster never really excited me, though I thought it was pretty cool at first. It barely ran during its media day, but even with five or six rides, I started to lose interest. To this day I'm pretty indifferent about it.

That's not to say there haven't been some great surprises since then. Rides like Apollo's Chariot, Maverick, Wicked Twister, Talon, The Voyage, Wild Eagle and Banshee have surprised me. I don't think we need super-mega-hits, but a well-designed ride can make a park a lot more fun.

Vater said:

I think it was probably TTD in 2003, and to a lesser extent KK in 2005 that made me realize that nothing would likely ever match my excitement for 2000's big coasters.

I actually have to note one exception: I305. I was all kinds of excited when it was announced, closely followed construction as I did when Millennium Force was being built, and rode it opening day. But had it been anywhere other than my lifelong homepark, I wouldn't have really cared that much.

I actually went out there for that media day near the end of my paternity leave. I was on the ground there for less than 24 hours. But I was glad to ride it, describing it as a cross between Maverick and Millennium Force, but not quite better than either one. Still a very solid ride, and happy I went out for it.

I remember. I think you posted a video of you being interviewed by the local Fox morning journalist (or maybe I saw it on TV). I also saw a couple folks I recognized on opening day who were there the day before for media day.

I can easily and honsetly say that this site has enhanced my life in many ways. While I don't ride or post as much as I used to, I still check in and enjoy the banter - it is actually very theraputic for me especially in the off season.

One thing that I do every year on Christmas is work at a radio station. During my shift I tend to look back over my postings for the current year and perhaps a few others. Re-reading my endless trip reports makes me feel like I am re-living the experiences over again...and usually I end up with a big smile on my face before playing Mariah Carey for the 12th time in six hours.

I will add to the list of those I miss - Costerplaya. I always loved his take on things and his posts were interesting.

I also LOVED the whole "Charmland" seies of posts. That made me roll on the floor and thinking about it - it still does.

I also secretly like the topics that keep springing up despite the fact that they have been hashed and rehased to death over the years. I feel they too have a place of importance simply because they keep coming up.

I also like that most of the time differing opinions can be shared without being brutally attacked...although sometimes that's fun too. Sort of like the kids at school who keep getting into trouble...every day....

PRINCIPAL: "Why did you throw that water bottle?"

Kid: "I didn't do it."

PRINCIPAL: "Are you saying that the lunch lady is a liar?"

Kid: "I didn't do it."

PRINCIPAL: "So then how did the water bottle with your name on it wind up on the other side of the lunchroom?"

Kid: "HE STARTED IT!"

So, thank you to those who contribute to make this the wonderful site all that it is. I swear that going to an event to meet some of you is on my bucket list. Perhaps when I retire.

Congratlations Jeff! Fifteen years...? Time well spent!