The ACE Spring Conference took place May 17-19, 2024 at Kings Island in Ohio. ACE members from across the region and across the country joined in the fun, which included morning and evening ERT, behind-the-scenes tours, informal takeovers, buffet meals and more.
The event also included some very special presentations from Dennis Speigel, founder and CEO of International Theme Park Services, Inc. Dennis shared his experience working on the 1977 movie Rollercoaster, Mike Koontz, Vice President and General Manager of Kings Island also presented and finally, ACE President Elizabeth Ringas and Events Director Steve Berto gave out some special awards.
Almost all of the podcast team was on hand to experience the fun and be part of this presentation. We’re thrilled to bring a recording of that presentation in this episode of our podcast.
In this Episode:
[1:42] Dennis Speigel shares the origins of and his role in creating the movie Rollercoaster
[19:43] Mike Koontz takes the stage and shares his theme park experience and great Kings Island stories
[49:55] Elizabeth Ringas and events director Steve Berto bring Chad Showalter to the stage and present several very special awards
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
Host: Jessica Gardner
Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry
Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Production Manager: Corey Wooten
Correspondents: John Davidson and Bryant Yeager
Popular Podcasts
Are You A Charlotte?
In 1997, actress Kristin Davis’ life was forever changed when she took on the role of Charlotte York in Sex and the City. As we watched Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte navigate relationships in NYC, the show helped push once unacceptable conversation topics out of the shadows and altered the narrative around women and sex. We all saw ourselves in them as they searched for fulfillment in life, sex and friendships. Now, Kristin Davis wants to connect with you, the fans, and share untold stories and all the behind the scenes. Together, with Kristin and special guests, what will begin with Sex and the City will evolve into talks about themes that are still so relevant today. "Are you a Charlotte?" is much more than just rewatching this beloved show, it brings the past and the present together as we talk with heart, humor and of course some optimism.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.