Voodoo is Now Possessed

No not possessed by something, that's it's new name. The park's official website has been updated to reflect this change.

Here's a link.

The park writes, "The opening season rituals now complete and smoke cleared (think dramatic) the coaster that was formerly known as Voodoo is now truly Possessed. Possessed will now open for the 2009 operating season to provide more thrilling rides and produce more jaw dropping screams than ever before."

Voodoo Mega Sale

FYI, Dorney Park currently has all their Voodoo merchandise listed at 65% off. If you ever wanted a Voodoo souvenir (it does have an awesome logo, after all) now is the time!

The real question is, why discount merchandise for a brand new ride? I'll let that alone, but get your souvenir cup or whatever now!

Voodoo Works Its Press Magic

© 2008 The Morning Call / Monica Cabrera

Voodoo at Dorney Park also had it's media day yesterday - this week has been very busy with new ride media days/openings.

There's a bunch of articles online, some with video of the ride in action. The Morning Call has a nice article with a video of the ride in action. The Philly news stations also were there for the opening, here's NBC and here is CBS's video. Finally, we have WFMZ and The Express Times' contributions to the coverage.

Dorney Park will be open daily for the rest of the summer starting this weekend.

Voodoo Opened Today

So I took a chance and stopped by the park today hoping that Voodoo might open. Lucky for me, it did.

I got there early and noticed that a full ride crew was at Voodoo cleaning, and the management types were milling around. Cleaning queue rails only means one thing in my Cedar Fair experience, and that is that a ride is going to open soon.

But I'm getting ahead of myself, they were doing some work on Laser, it almost looking like they were sanding or something on the tracks. One train was at the very end of the brake run.

Also, there's a new little SnoCone stand right at the entrance of Voodoo. I can't help but wonder if this is new or used-Geauga - which if true would be funny considering it's at Voodoo.

So they started testing Voodoo a few times with the water dummies, did the full runs and the not full test runs, etc. - and then they emptied the water out of the dummies and removed them.

After a while, and much more cleaning of the ride's train, people started to gather at the entrance to the ride and a big line started to form.

And then it opened! I was lucky to get a ride on the first public train, and it was pretty great. It was pretty much what I expected, but in a good way. The launch is fun, and I also actually really enjoyed the holding brake.

The park handled the crowd very well (no Canada's Wonderland Behemoth stampedes) and the dispatches on Voodoo were fantastic. Props to the park for both of those.

It was a perfect blue sky this morning, then by the time the ride opened I had this not-so-great sky as a background for photos.


Important park people and very happy riders of Voodoo. The crowds really seemed to love the ride.

It's a great ride to watch from the midway, too.


On a final note, here's a nice shot of the Ferris Wheel (new logo on the middle panel).

Congrats on your ride opening, Dorney!

Daily Spin 5.10.08

I'm starting the "Daily Spin" for little news items that don't really need a whole post, many blogs do this so I think it'll fit in well on NewsPlusNotes. I probably won't publish one each day, though, so please excuse the hypocrisy of the name!

I made a twitter page for NewsPlusNotes ... that way I can publish little stuff that doesn't deserve a whole post on NPN. Here's the link, please feel free to follow me!

The return of swan lake? KICentral has posted some new photos from Kings Island showing concrete forms being placed in the former area of swan lake. The concrete forms are clearly curving like those that are poured around a water feature, with a large concrete bock going in the middle. Fans are speculating some sorts of Sheikra/Griffon water splash, but I'm not sure.

If you haven't had your fix of Hard Rock Park photos yet, then check out this gallery on CoasterForce. It's got everything!

Voodoo at Dorney Park did some low-power testing this morning, here's a short video of that via Flickr.
Not sure why, but Universal Studios Japan has always fascinated me. Westcoaster has a great photo tour of the park that shows off all it has to offer.

Flyin' Phil has another great set of aerial shots of the Dark Knight at Six Flags Great Adventure taken at the end of April. Helped me put the ride into perspective with the rest of the park.

Voodoo Delayed

Bummer: Voodoo at Dorney Park will not be opening until "late May." Just wanted to post as an FYI since the park opens so soon.

Exclusive Dorney Park Interview

Today we have a special treat – an interview with Chuck Hutchison, the Public Relations Manager for Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. Mr. Hutchison was kind enough to sit down and share with NewsPlusNotes plenty of information about the amusement park’s 2008 season. That said, let’s begin.

NewsPlusNotes: Let’s start with Voodoo. Did construction go as planned?

Chuck Hutchison: Construction went well, we worked with local companies as much as possible, and seemed to fly through the first phases.

When the first parts started arriving in September, our teams immediately started the shuffle of keeping the "paint shop" in good supply of work. As I talked about in the blog, they sand blasted each piece and sent it off to a secondary facility for non-destructive weld testing. That is an interesting process to watch. They essentially turn the piece into an electromagnet by running current through it, and then blow this magnetic dust over the welds looking for lines to form that would indicate a weakened or stressed weld.

After each piece passes its inspection it headed back to a huge paint chamber to receive primer, color, and top coat layers. The winter season was pretty nice to us, having caused only a week or so worth of cumulative delays. Steel went up in a matter of about two work weeks, and now I think we are all a bit amazed at how great the ride looks and what it does for Dorney's skyline.

© 2008 Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, used with permission

NPN: Any details of what kind of refurbishment the ride went though after being moved from Geauga Lake?

CH: Other refurbishments include new foam padding on all the restraints, new seats, and a random assortment of other new hardware and small parts that were just better replaced than refurbished.

NPN: Is there any background on where the name Voodoo came from? Were any alternate names considered?

CH: Shhh.... It's a secret, well not really but this does seem to be the big mystery. The artwork and name were simply a joint effort of some of our veteran employees who were able to bring together the essence and magic of the ride. They quickly won the support of senior management and corporate Planning and Development who know a good thing when they see it.

Dorney Park's 2008 Billboard Ad
© 2008 Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, used with permission

NPN: Are the holding-brakes still planned on being used on the straight tower?

CH: Just called and confirmed to be sure. Holding brakes are a go!

NPN: Great! Will there be an on-ride photo or video available?

CH: No on-ride photo or video for Voodoo. From my understanding, it is pretty difficult / near impossible to install those types of systems on this type of coaster. Now that I said that I'm sure you'll shoot me tons of examples of where it's been done or something, but regardless, we are focusing on the ride, the frills could come later.

NPN: Actually, no rides like this with on-ride photos come to mind! Has the ride started testing yet/are we looking good for a May 3rd opening?

CH: The best laid plans are always subject to change, but yes, Voodoo's ETA is still May 3rd, opening day! There is a lot to do between now and then, but the park is buzzing with activity to try to hit the date.

NPN: How about the park’s rides in general. Are any rides or attractions not returning to the park for 2008?

CH: Nope, all rides are a go. Laser will most likely have a late start due to ongoing maintenance, but we expect it will be online around Memorial Day weekend.

NPN: Have any rides seen upgrades of any sort? (like The Whip’s new floor)

CH: You stole my thunder. The first thing I would say is the Whip's new floor. I hear word that Ferris Wheel got a new computer, control system, and software.

NPN: Wildwater Kingdom has seen expansion the past two seasons, has the water park expanded to meet attendance demands?

CH: We focused on Wildwater Kingdom for the past two years for a few reasons, attendance demands being just one. Our waterpark guests needed another high capacity, general admission attraction. They asked, and we answered with Wildwater Cove. We also recognized the need to manage the balance of attendance between Dorney Park proper and Wildwater Kingdom. Adding AquaRacer served to achieve a better balance of guest flow between parks, just the same way that Voodoo will counterbalance and increase traffic to that area of the park this season. It's a constant juggle.

© 2008 Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, used with permission

NPN: How was AquaRacer received by guests this past summer?

CH: I don't have any hard ridership figures on my desk, but from my recollection, and experiences in the park with guests, I think they loved it. The line was always long indicating great interest, and six riders at a clip made it move much faster than traditional water slide installations. Our guests seem to love the competitive nature of racing their friends to the finish too. Overall, I think it was a hit.

NPN: I tried out AquaRacer many times, it’s a ton of fun! What live entertainment will we see at the park this year?

CH: Fancy Pants Entertainment is back with two all new musical reviews: HEAT, and Dancing Under the Stars. The amazing magic of Michael Mage will be integrated into the Dancing Under the Stars evening shows for a special "Spellbound" magical musical review. Of course planning for HAUNT is underway and we will have some special spooky shows for you then too.

NPN: Any new food offerings at the park for this season?

CH: Mix-it-up slushees should be fun, and messy. It's like sand art for slushees!

NPN: Sounds fun – I’ll have to try one! How about merchandise and games, any new or changed locations to look forward to?

Possessions Gift Shop logo
© 2008 Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, used with permission

CH: Voodoo's supporting store, formerly known as DropShop has received a face lift inside and out as well as new displays. It will be opening on May 3rd as Possessions, and will carry some pretty cool new Voodoo themed merchandise. Laser shot was of course moved about 30 feet to the right to accommodate Voodoo, and in the process got a nice face lift as well.

NPN: Are there any other general changes or upgrades to look for this year?

CH: New equipment in the Season Pass / Guest services building creates photo ID's that are now all black and white for faster line processing!

NPN: How about for the employee side of the park?

CH: I noticed a new seating area for employees on the ramp up to the employee cafe.

© 2008 Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, used with permission

NPN: Let’s move on to the Haunt at Dorney Park. What new attractions will The Haunt Feature?

CH: First let me say that HAUNT is awesome. I also must stress that although Dorney is a family park all year, HAUNT nights after 6pm are strongly not recommended for kids. We are using the age of 13 as a recommended age cut off, but really, parental discretion is advised.

Club Blood indoor maze is a nightclub of the vampire underground that will be a new building near White Water Landing to be constructed this summer. CornStalkers outdoor maze will be the longest walkthrough scare area where guests will experience a flashback to when the property was farmland, the scarecrows and farmhands are back to reclaim their fields! Terror Square will consume the Hydra / Game Day Grille plaza with monsters.

© 2008 Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, used with permission

HAUNT means Dorney will have approximately 300 more employees for the season, most of those being costumed positions. Auditions will be late August or Early September so stay tuned, we want all of you. HAUNT website is scheduled for August 1st, and don't forget to look for the hearse to come by your neighborhood!

NPN: Sounds fantastic. Is Cedar Freak Cannonball coming back?

CH: The Cannonball will run during the days until about 6pm. It will be less haunted than in the past, more for families and kids, and will be laid to rest in piece each night before CornStalkers opens up for the evening.

NPN: Where exactly is Cornstalkers going to be located in the park?

© 2008 Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, used with permission

CH: CornStalkers will occupy nearly the entire length of the access road between Dorney and Wildwater Kingdom. The walk starts at the gate just past the Wildwater Kingdom locker area, goes all the way down the access road to the Cannonball crossing that leads to Wildwater Kingdom, makes a left down that path, through Thunder Canyon exit plaza, and finally ends right near the entrance to Thunder Canyon.

NPN: That's a long walk, now I'm even more excited for CornStalkers. Is there a more specific theme available for Terror Square?

CH: Terror Square needs no specifics, it's a huge free flowing area of monsters and mayhem. But, I don't know if you can handle it so you better stay away!

© 2008 Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, used with permission

NPN: I personally can’t wait for The Haunt this fall! To wrap things up, I’ll ask the obligatory amusement park question: What’s on the horizon for Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom?

CH: Well, I hope everyone is ready and willing to help us celebrate an amazing 125th anniversary next year! No official plans as of yet, but stay tuned as planning gets underway late this season.

NPN: I'd like to thank Mr. Hutchison again for the interview - and remember, opening day for Dorney Park is this coming weekend on Saturday, May 3rd. See you all there!

Voodoo At Night

Thanks very much to one of our readers, Dave, I can share with you a photo of Voodoo at Dorney Park at night. I'm so very glad that they went with flood lights for the towers, this type of lighting is always very impressive at night.

Looks good, huh?

Dorney Park Online Voodoo Update!

© Dorney Park Online 2008

Dorney Park Online has published a really fantastic photo update for Voodoo at Dorney Park from inside the park.

There's a lot to see in the photos so you'll have to check it - but things are really coming along. The train is also just starting to be placed on the track as well.

Go see all the photos!

New Dorney Park / Voodoo Pics

I finally got my new camera this past week, so I wanted to go try it out today. After the sun finally came out I made it a point to go take some photos of Voodoo with a much better lens and zoom than I had before.

I must say, It may not be the camera of my dreams but it's certainly better than before - and it fit my budget which is tops ... so if any of you appreciate these pics and NewsPlusNotes in general those Paypal and Amazon boxes are still over in the side bar!

Voodoo's station - click for a much larger image. Still no sign of the train, but like I said last time I guess it could be behind the electrical room. It looks like the station is coming along, you can see that they have some queue rows up and such, and they are painted orange.

The left side of things - this new camera really captured the pink of those flags nicely.

The upper entrance Guest Relations office is now open for Season Pass purchasing and processing. That's how I got this view of how Voodoo looks from the entrance area.

I saw this new sign so I had to snap a pic! This is taken from the car from the parking lot - and it's at the front gate - me love new camera!

Dorney Park opens for the 2008 season one month from today!

Flying Phil's Voodoo Photos

Flying Phil has once again taken some awesome aerial photos of Voodoo at Dorney Park. Here is a link to his latest photo gallery for Voodoo.

It looks like they are getting ready to start paving some of the area on the midway side of Voodoo, you can see that the moved basketball game where Laser's sign was is all ready to go, and they have a structure up for the queue line to pass directly under the holding-brake tower.

Things are really coming together at the construction site!

Voodoo 3.29.08 Update

With major construction done on Voodoo, I waited a bit longer to snap some photos of what's happening at the ride site. These photos are from today, March 29th.

A close up of the station and launch track area. Those fake metal flags that went up on the front of the station are now pink! A very bright pink... Also looks like the covers for the launch track have been painted to match the ride supports.

General view of the whole ride, taking advantage of the early spring blue sky.

Another view of the station. It looks like the front of the station was also finished being painted orange. Still no sign of the train on the track that I could see, unless it's behind the electrical room.

A nice view of those pink flags. Yes, I copied the same pink color of the flags for the NewsPlusNotes logo in this one.

Beautiful!

More Voodoo Photos!

Thanks to one of our readers, Randy, we have some new photos of Voodoo at Dorney Park. And Randy's camera was working much better than mine was!

^ Very nice shot!


^ A very nice view of the whole park from afar. Gives you great perspective of how Voodoo fits in.

Thanks again to Randy for sharing his photos!

Voodoo 3.15.08 Update

Voodoo is done! It was finished at the end of this past week.

I had to use my 'bad camera' today so I sorta hate these pictures - but here's one that shows off the complete Voodoo coaster.

Similar photo, taken from lower than the previous one.

A nice shot of how the ride fits in with the park's other towering rides. It stands out, a lot - a whole lot. When you are driving on 222 past the park it's like BAM there it is. I was sitting at a traffic light across from the park and the peeps in the cars on both sides of me were pointing at it!

Taken from outside the park's entrance road.

I know this isn't a great shot (p.o.s. camera) but from far away you can see Dominator, Talon, Steel Force, and now Voodoo's towers sticking up out of the valley the park is in.

My favorite 'pic of the litter' today - I know that Laser looks colorful in some of these photos, but that's because I played with the photos cause they turned out so poor. There's no new paint on it yet that I can tell.

I can't wait until May 3rd!

Voodoo 3.12.08 Update

New Voodoo at Dorney Park photos from today, March 12th, 2008.

They've added the 'extra' supports on the twist tower and attached track to it as well. Looks like there are about only two more pieces of track to go up.

Impressive, very impressive. They put the covers on the 'wire box' that runs along the holding brake tower and it's catching quite a glare in this photo.

Here you can see the last track piece (or two already together) next to the tower ready to go up. Perhaps they even put it adding it off a day or so to do a little media thing for the "topping" of the ride.

Close up of the station for the ride. I can't be 100% but it looks like the train pieces are starting to lay around in the station. Also, there's some new light poles in the parking lot there that I'm assuming are for the ride.

Wide view from across the street.

Twisty!

More pictures when the ride is complete!