ACE - Ride With Us

Unearthing the Secrets of Treasure Hunt: The Ride - Cannery Row’s Newest Immersive Attraction

Unearthing the Secrets of Treasure Hunt: The Ride
Embark on a thrilling journey as we dive deep into the immersive world of Treasure Hunt: The Ride. Located on the iconic Cannery Row in Monterey, California, this pirate-themed dark ride has taken the amusement world by storm, captivating both casual visitors and roller coaster aficionados.
In this episode, join our co-host Jessica Gardner as she engages in a lively discussion with the minds behind this attraction - John Wood, Rich Hill and Lauren Weaver from Sally Dark Rides, along with Ron Daniels from Daniels Woodland. Discover how this powerful partnership gave birth to a storytelling marvel that promises every coaster enthusiast visiting Monterey a treasured addition to their ride credits. 
Links 
Treasure Hunt Complete Reverse POV and Ron Daniels Interview
Treasure Hunt - An In-Depth Look At The Latest Sally Dark Ride Attraction At Monterey's Cannery Row" (ACE Feature)
Episode Highlights:
Behind the Magic: Get acquainted with the creative forces that brought "Treasure Hunt: The Ride" to life.
Location Insights: Unravel the mysteries of why Cannery Row was the ideal setting for this one-of-a-kind attraction.
Haunting News from Funtown Splashtown USA: Uncover the spine-chilling details of their new Haunted Hotel introduced on July 28.
Dive into Bikini Bottom: Catch a glimpse of the upcoming SpongeBob SquarePants attraction slated to make waves at Circus Circus, Las Vegas.
Origin Tales: Learn about the serendipitous meeting of the teams at IAAPA that sparked this collaboration.
We value your feedback and suggestions! Share your thoughts about this episode at podcast@aceonline.org. To delve deeper into the world of roller coasters and learn more about our mission, visit ridewithace.com.
Join the team of ACE volunteers: We invite you to join our vibrant team of volunteers. By becoming a part of ACE, you can:
Have an impact on the future of ACE
Relish in meaningful experiences that make a difference
Forge lasting bonds within a close-knit community
Enhance your skillset or impart your expertise to the organization 
Podcast Volunteer Team 
Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten

The First Drop: Zambezi Zinger, Flying Viking, Draken Falls, and Mandrill Mayhem

It’s been a real zinger of a summer when it comes to theme parks, travel and enjoying new coasters around the world! We head into fall with a roundup of the summer’s newest attractions and great discussions with ACE members from around the world.
 
Co-host John Davidson chats with Paul Drabek, ACE Regional Rep for the ACE Heart of America Region. He shares his experience riding the all-new GCI wooden coaster, Zambezi Zinger, at Worlds of Fun. In our next segment, Bryant Yeager interviews Chris Kearsing director of Operations for Adventureland Park about their new Zamperla attractions, Flying Viking and Draken Falls. For the final interview, co-host Jessica Gardner is joined by ACE Europe Assistant Regional Rep Hjälmar Sinke to discuss Mandrill Mayhem, the newest B&M wing coaster at Chessington World of Adventures.
 
In this episode:
• Meet Paul Drabek – coaster enthusiast since the Usenet days
• Zambezi Zinger media day – he took an epic road trip that included Waffle House to get there!
• Next, Bryant chats with Chris Kearsing about Adventureland Park and their new Zamperla rides: Flying Viking and Draken Falls, plus more upcoming changes to the park.
• Adventureland can be a part of some great Iowa road trips (also visit Arnold’s Park, Worlds of Fun, Lost Island, Valleyfair and others while you’re in the neighborhood!).  
• Our last interview goes to Europe, Jessica talks with Hjälmar Sinke about Mandrill Mayhem and some enchanting European parks.
• Learn about the Merlin park Chessington World of Adventures, plus the new coaster!
 
Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.
 
Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by: 


• Having an impact on the future of ACE
• Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
• Developing friendships in a small group
• Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE
Podcast Volunteer Team 
Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editors: Bob Randolph and Alex Monastersky 
Show Notes: Liz Tan 
Project Manager: Corey Wooten 
Correspondent: Bryant Yeager



 

Deno’s Wonder Wheel: The Story Behind Coney Island’s Timeless Treasure

Deno’s Wonder Wheel is a historic landmark ride which first opened in 1920. It still looms large on the Coney Island skyline, beckoning riders from near and far to climb aboard.
The Wonder Wheel remains the anchor of what is now known as Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park. The park has grown quite a bit and includes many recent additions including a Vekoma family thrill roller coaster, Phoenix.
Deno (DJ) Vourderis, Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park co-owner, joins Jessica to talk about the park, the Wonder Wheel and the upcoming Preservation Con event. He’s excited to welcome ACE members to the park. Listen as DJ and Jessica go in-depth about logistics for the event, covering everything from Easter eggs the park is planning to snacks during ERT!  
In this episode
Jessica introduces Deno and ACE Preservation Con
Deno’s story – home park, work history, park history – it’s a family business
Relationship between Luna Park and Deno’s Wonder Wheel – the parks compliment each other but do not share a wristband or a gate
Hint about the Phoenix, changes might be coming
All Wonder Wheel parts are made in house (every wheel is a different size), he shares some maintenance stories
Things to eat in the area
Learn more about Preservation Con; it’s not too late to get your tickets!  If you’re on the fence about attending, DJ mentioned that attendees will get a free Nathan’s hot dog.
Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org.
Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.
Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:
Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE
Podcast Volunteer Team 
Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan 
Project Manager: Corey Wooten 
 

Summer Showdown: Roller Coaster Rodeo, Aloha Con, and August Events

This week’s episode covers a variety of topics!
Join co-host Jessica Gardner and Ride With Us correspondent, Bryant Yeager, for a roundup of the Roller Coaster Rodeo event that was held at Six Flags Fiesta Texas this June. We’ll move on to Bryant’s interview with Ron McKenzie, ProParks Attractions Group Chief Marketing Officer during the inaugural AlohaCon 2023 event at Hawaiian Falls Waco.
We wrap up the episode with the ACE August event rundown. Tune in to get the complete list of ACE events – ACE members can attend regional events in any region so if your summer plans include travel, you’re welcome to purchase a ticket and join the fun!
In this episode
Meet Bryant, discover his home park and learn about his experience with ACE
And now, on with the show!  Bryant describes his Roller Coaster Rodeo adventure, which was full of great food and ERT
Jessica’s mind is blown when she learns that Dr. Diabolical is female!
Bryant’s interview with Hawaiian Falls Waco, Chief Marketing Officer for ProParks Attractions Group
ProParks focuses on easy access and pricing in their neighborhood water parks
Jessica shares the August event rundown
Check out Bryan’s Amusement Source YouTube channel.
Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.
 
Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:
Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE
Podcast Volunteer Team 
Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson Producer: Derek Perry Editor: Bob Randolph Show Notes: Liz Tan  Project Manager: Corey Wooten Correspondent: Bryant Yeager

Lights, Camera, Coasters! - The Team Behind ACE’s Schwarzkopf Documentary

Join us as we chat with the production crew of the Anton Schwarzkopf documentary "Legacy of Schwarzkopf," (debuting 2024) and meet the team behind the masterpiece - Kris Rowberry, Nicholas Laschkewitsch, Robert Ingle, and Scott Schaffer. 
Hear about their adventures and challenges filming on location to capture Schwarzkopf’s groundbreaking roller coaster designs! 
In This Episode: 
[00:23] - Jessica Welcomes the Crew to Our Show 
[01:41] - Kris Rowberry (Executive Producer) Introduces the Team 
[02:41] - Nicholas Laschkewitsch (Director, Editor) 
[04:23] - Robert Ingle (Executive Producer) 
[05:27] - Scott Schaffer (Cinematographer) 
[09:27] - Collaborating with Parks During Filming 
[11:00] - Filming at Six Flags Over Texas (Arlington, TX)
[16:51] - Road Trip Highlights from the Crew 
[18:04] - Meeting Gary Slade of Amusement Today 
[19:35] - Wonderland Park (Amarillo, TX) 
[26:02] - Visiting the National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives (NRCMA) in Plainview, TX 
[37:00] - Windy Weather at Sea World San Antonio 
[42:58] - Rest Day at Six Flags Fiesta Texas (San Antonio, TX) 
[44:16] - ZDT's Amusement Park (Seguin, TX) 
[45:57] - Circuit of the Americas (Austin, TX) 
[51:40] - The ACE Advantage 
[53:02] - Closing Statements 
Background:
Pioneering German engineer Anton Schwarzkopf revolutionized roller coaster design with his iconic rides installed in parks worldwide. This documentary will showcase his lasting legacy.
ACE members enjoyed a sneak preview of the film at Coaster Con 2022. See it here. 
Share feedback on this episode at podcast@aceonline.org. ACE is a non-profit dedicated to the enjoyment, history, and preservation of roller coasters globally. Discover more at www.ridewithace.com. 
Get involved! Volunteering with ACE offers rewarding ways to share your passions and talents, including:
Shaping the future direction of the organization
Gaining enriching experiences
Building connections in our tight-knit community
Developing new abilities or putting your skills and talents to use 
Podcast Volunteer Team: 
Hosts: Jessica Gardner, John Davidson 
Producer: Derek Perry 
Editor: Bob Randolph 
Show Notes: Liz Tan 
Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Coaster Quests: Exploring Theme Parks on Epic Road Trips

Our podcast team isn't just our fantastic co-hosts, John Davidson and Jessica Gardner. It's a group of enthusiastic volunteers who work behind the scenes to put everything together.
This week, we bring one of those behind-the-scenes ACE members to the forefront to talk about one of our favorite topics: theme park road trips and vacations!
Meet Liz Tan, your show notes author and world traveler. Liz chats with John about the many theme park trips she and her family have taken. From Legoland Malaysia and Hong Kong Disneyland to destinations closer to home like the Columbus Zoo, Dorney Park, Cedar Point, and more, Liz shares her experiences. She also discusses the joys of incorporating theme park trips into longer vacations and the flexibility of working remotely while enjoying different theme parks across the country.
In this episode, John and Liz define different types of theme park trips, including day trips, road trips, add-on trips, and destination trips. We would love to hear about your theme park road trips too!
Episode Highlights:
[00:00] Meet Liz (hi!)
[02:25] Destination Trips
[03:30] Day Trips
[05:45] Extended Weekend Getaways
[13:56] Add-on Trips
[20:45] Road Trips
[27:30] Road Trips: RV / Camper Adventures
Join the team of ACE volunteers! Volunteering offers various ways to share your talents, such as:
Having an impact on the future of ACE
Enjoying rewarding experiences
Developing friendships within a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE
Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.
Podcast Volunteer Team:
Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson
Producer/Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten 
 

Coaster Con 45 - Part 3: The Final Loop and ACE Event Rundown for July 2023

Can you believe it? We're in the heart of theme park season and Coaster Con 45 is now just a memory! Join us as we revisit the unforgettable thrills of this grand event one last time.
Feeling the Coaster Con blues? Don't worry! We've got you covered with a rundown of exciting July events happening in your region, guaranteed to keep your adrenaline pumping until we gather again for the next Coaster Con in Northern California. 
In this episode: 
[00:21] - Coaster Con Recap from Hosts Jessica and John [28:50] - Late Summer ACE Event Teasers[30:43] - ACE Events for July 2023 [36:44] - Jessica's Favorite Rides from Coaster Con
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Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:
Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE
Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.
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Podcast Volunteer Team 
Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Coaster Con 45 - Part 2: Live From Carowinds

Coaster Con 45 - Part 2: Live from Carowinds
Coaster Con 45 has finally drawn to an exhilarating close! Our dynamic co-host, Jessica Gardner, along with the vibrant "Ride With Us" podcast team, have concluded an unforgettable week at the thrilling Carowinds in Charlotte, North Carolina.
We're excited to bring you a plethora of riveting content from the final leg of the Con, featuring a diverse mix of our passionate ACE members and the dedicated park employees. 
In this episode: 
[01:22] Pete Owens (Dollywood) 
[35:32] Elizabeth Ringas (ACE President)
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Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:
Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE
Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.
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Podcast Volunteer Team 
Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson Producer: Derek Perry Editor: Bob Randolph Show Notes: Liz Tan  Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Coaster Con 45 - Part 1: Live from Dollywood

Coaster Con 45 - Part 1: Live from Dollywood
The week we've all been eagerly anticipating is finally here – it's time for Coaster Con 2023!
Our radiant co-host, Jessica Gardner (along with the majority of the vivacious "Ride With Us" podcast team) has set the stage at the dazzling Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
We're excited to be bringing you an abundance of thrilling content, featuring an eclectic mix of our enthusiastic ACE members and the dedicated park employees. 
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Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:
Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE
Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.
 
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Podcast Volunteer Team 
Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson Producer: Derek Perry Editor: Bob Randolph Show Notes: Liz Tan  Project Manager: Corey Wooten

It Takes a Village... or Two! Give Kids The World Village and Knott’s Fiesta Village

It Takes a Village... or Two!
In this week's episode, we explore the profound truth behind the saying, "it takes a village," as we journey to two exceptional and unique villages!
We kick off with a heartwarming visit to Give Kids the World Village, an enchanting 89-acre non-profit resort located in Kissimmee, Florida. This magical haven offers cost-free, week-long vacations to critically-ill children and their families hailing from all corners of the globe.
Our co-host, Jessica Gardner, chats with Brandon Thom, the Senior Director of Development at Give Kids the World Village, unveiling the heartening and inspiring stories behind this extraordinary initiative.
We then teleport to the vibrant Fiesta Village nestled within Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, CA, where Jessica meets with Creative Producer, Jim Clark, and Producer, Chris Do, amidst the jubilant atmosphere of the media event commemorating the grand reopening of this re-themed land. This not-to-be-missed conversation covers the reimagined attractions and tantalizing cuisines offered by the newly introduced restaurants.
Here's what awaits you in this episode:
[01:35] - Meet Brandon Thom
[01:52] - The Inspiring Journey of Give Kids the World
[06:34] - Coasting for Kids: Events & Advantages
[07:50] - Fiesta Village's Grand Reveal ft. Jim Clark & Chris Do
[08:05] - Getting to know Jim Clark
[17:43] - An Introduction to Chris Do
[24:50] - Wrap-up & Final Thoughts 
Join the team of ACE volunteers!Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:
Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE
Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org.
Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE).
 
Podcast Volunteer Team 
Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson Producer: Derek Perry Editor: Bob Randolph Show Notes: Liz Tan Project Manager: Corey Wooten