CoasterBuzz Podcast #153 - August 24, 2009

Jeff and Mike review this week's news in the amusement industry.

• Kid gets busted for stealing from Great Escape. It's amazing that people think they can get away with this stuff.
• Inflatables are not big fluffy pillows.
• More people busted for selling half-used tickets in Orlando. Mike says the mess of ticket vendors don't help with the confusion.
• Disney films don't always make for good theme park attractions and merchandise.
• Kent Buescher got a raw deal when it comes to the failure of Cypress Gardens.
• Another Disney performer dies, this one in a stunt rehearsal. Is it just odds that people get hurt in these shows?
• More details released on strange Invertigo incident. Another Vekoma engineering win!
• Carowinds gets tax deal for building new attractions, a one-time fee in exchange for waiver on annual property tax.
• Thorpe Park tries to enforce a no body odor rule. Stupid.
• Southern Star says they're doing a Nickelodeon park, we're skeptical they'll be able to pay for it. No word yet on where this leaves Six Flags.
• Hollywood Rip Ride Rocket finally opens at Universal Studios Florida. Initial reviews are relatively positive.
• Former executives from way back offer to run Six Flags, as if they're somehow qualified.
• Dollywood announces new water ride, exhibits a pattern of regular and varied cap ex.
• Kings Dominion announces Intimidator 305. Jeff thinks it's a pretty cool design, and predictably some "enthusiasts" already hate it.
• Canada's Wonderland drops Nickelodeon for Peanuts, and it still seems short-sighted.
• Six Flags says they'll do a debt-equity swap in bankruptcy.
• We're doing a big event with Cedar Point to raise money for Give Kids The World. Coasting For Kids marathon on Gemini happens on August 26. Your support is appreciated!
• CoasterBuzz Club is $25 per year. You can join or renew today. Enjoy CoasterBuzz with no ads.
• BooBuzz 2009 details posted for Cedar Point!
• The Fall Affair at Holiday World promises to be a big deal. Register today!