RCMAC, I knew it didn't look right...
--Dave Althoff, Jr.
/X\ _ *** Respect rides. They do not respect you. ***
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In the midst of all this chaos, it's good to have a topic that reminds one of ordinary predictable times.
I develop Superior Solitaire when not riding coasters.
Speaking of Bill Spehn, anyone know what that character is up to nowadays? Last time I saw him was several years ago at a safety conference. He's been off the radar since.
After Wildwater Kingdom closed I think he went to Pioneer Waterland. Not exactly what I'd call an upward career move, going from a major player at Cedar Point/Cedar Fair to a tiny little waterpark in rural Ohio. But he's at that awkward age where he was probably a little too young to take retirement after the Wildwater Kingdom gig ended, but not contemporary enough to take on a similar gig at a major chain.
I always felt bad that he wasn't able to have the success I felt he deserved and worked hard for at Geauga Lake, at least during his first tenure with the ride side. Especially with all the praise he earned at Cedar Point. Emotions and opinion aside, I feel like he gave it all and then some with the limited hand he was dealt and the reduction of resources that came in year after year. Anyone I know that has worked for him at either CP or GL has nothing but good things to say about his management style and the way he treats and interacts with his staff. He seems to have been a calming influence during the Kinzel era for sure. I have no doubt he knew the place was closing during most, if not all of the 2007 season. But he still took pride in the park and his staff and kept the place looking good up until and on the last day. Well, as good as a park can look with a giant abandoned waterpark on one side.
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