Requests to the Park

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Nora

Nora

Sep 28, 2009
1,411
2,876
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Virginia
Hi there,

I know we all make requests and write letters to the park. Let's track all of our requests here. I just posted one on the blog (I saw Swiftman's post there, I believe you too Chris)

Here is my first request that I have sent as of today 3/26/10:

Hey there, I know I have mentioned this before to Merchandising and this Blog gives me hope; but I would LOVE to see a DVD or Book made to be sold in the park with images, historical information, and even conceptual art, of the parks beginnings all the way to today.

The park has changed so much over the years and so many people have such fond memories of the past that many folks would love to have a documentary DVD or a tabletop book of photos and information.

I have discovered that a great number of people miss some of the old charm the park had; the mascots, the attention to accurate details of each country, the street performers, simple areas such as Threadneedle Fair and Eagle's Nest that were relaxing and did not require standing in line, more cultural items related to each country sold in shops, and even the Monorail and a simple tour of the Brewery.

Perhaps the park would consider making a building that houses a tour of the past. Old coaster signs and memorabilia and photos with a time line. In this building would be a mini gift shop with nostalgic souvenirs and replicas. I think Busch Gardens would be surprised at how well it would do. The best location for such a concept would obviously be in the front of the park, perhaps where the old Budweiser store was.

Thanks for the post, and keep on writing more information about the rides and history!

Request -Suggestion sent 3/24/10 *Some content was edited like my closing paragraph (contained personal information):

I would like this message forwarded to Park Merchandising Manager. Also a copy for The Park Entertainment Manager.

Hi there,

I would like to request two more things for merchandising. This year, towards the Fall/ Christmas Town dates; would it be possible to create a Park Calendar with amazing Coaster/ Park photos? I am speaking of the type of Larger Calendars that are given as Christmas Gifts. I could imagine that your resident park photographer Chris could gather some amazing photos. He is an amazing talent.

The wonderful little calendar I got in the mail recently, gave me the idea. (Thank you for that by the way, it is currently in use!)

Also, speaking of photos, please consider creating a Photo Souvenir Book for the shops as well. I have many old photo books from years past and they are amazing glimpses into the park history. I am not sure why Busch stopped carrying these to begin with. Calendars and Souvenir Photo books are cheap to make and produce; great gifts, and a reasonable purchase for park goers, They could also be sold online.

Another point for the Entertainment end; could someone consider bringing back park mascots? Imagine the boost in photo sales by having a large, cuddly, Loch Ness Monster costume mascot waving at the camera; kids snuggling close and smiling.

I have to admit it; I too would want a photo. I doubt I would be the only adult who would agree to that. I mean, who goes to Disney World and does NOT get excited over seeing a big costumed Mickey Mouse? Who wouldn't stand next to Mickey for a Photo? Back in the day, the Mascots at Busch Gardens always stood near a gift cart/ Balloon kiosk..etc. Missed purchasing opportunity there as well.

My idea is to have every country with a coaster mascot. A Big Griffon in France, Nessie in Scotland, a friendlier version of the Alpengeist Monster in Germany/France; and an Apollo like costume in Fest/Italy. I only weep over the fact at how amazing a cuddly furry costumed Big Bad Wolf would have been around Germany.. oh the loss. I weep, I weep.

It couldn't cost the park all that much for any of the ideas listed above. The mascots would really boost family enjoyment of the park and create long lasting memories (and photo ops).

OK, once again ...my annual request and I have to ask... maybe bring Sherlock and Watson back to England? Look at how popular the movie is.. and now a sequel is being made. Good ol' Sherlock is back in the popular forefront once more and I think these characters would be a welcome sight. I really miss all the old street performers the park used to have.
 
This is really good! But personally, I just never liked roaming characters. In fact, I really greatly dislike them. I go out of my way to avoid them, ESPECIALLY the ones that approach you to talk. The HOS characters are fine because they're not trying to strike up a conversation with you and once they get a good scream they're gone. Otherwise, though, I'm 100% against characters.
 
Swiftman,

Disagree with me or Merboy?

Well, I do know many people are a bit afraid of costumed characters much like clowns. Still, the vast majority have very fond memories of having a picture taken with iconic characters.

I miss Gordon the Dragon; he was larger than life when I was little. Later, I found out my cousin's future wife was one of the actors in costume and I thought that was the coolest thing ever. I asked her a million questions - and yes, the costume did reach 120 degrees in the summer.

Overall, I still feel little kids especially would enjoy seeing costumed characters around the park.. but Merboy, are you talking of the street performers? The costumed mascots were not allowed to talk (mostly).

A rule of thumb if you do not wish for actors to aproach you is to tell them that you have already been picked once before on another visit to the park... works like a charm.
 
I'm all for the roaming actors, it's something that made the park really special when I was a kid and I think that for most kids, it's something that is exciting and let's their imagination run wild.
 
Oh, by the way Nora, one of my secret projects I was working on this season was a calendar. One of the reasons I'm taking so many pictures this season. But, I guess it's not a secret anymore.
 
Letter I sent after the Coaster Tour: 3/27/10:

To the park Entertainment, Operations, and Marketing personnel and or managers:

I just returned from the coaster tour and have to just tell everyone there about how much I enjoyed it and how I plan on telling everyone I know outside the park about it.

The tour was unbelievable. I am still in awe. For years I have tried to imagine what lay behind those secret doors next to or under all the coasters. Being able to cross that line and walk around, free to ask questions, and to experience the behind-the-scenes preparation of making coasters safe for guests to ride was inspiring. I always felt safe on Busch Gardens Coasters, and now that I know just how much work goes into giving us that secure feeling when plunging down steep drops and hanging upside down in various loops, was an eye opening experience.

The content of the tour and what a guest is allowed to do is amazing for the price of the ticket. I will return to the tour again and I will make sure to bring my friends and family to join me. I have never felt such excitement and shear joy to be able to be a part of seeing Busch Gardens prepare for their guests! Thank you for providing coaster fans like myself with such a great program. I plan on taking the Train Tour and the Animal Trainer tour next just to see other aspects of the park!

Also, I am still thrilled over the quality and talent found in Celtic Fyre and to be honest, it felt like I should have paid for a separate ticket to watch it as way superior to any theme park performance I have seen thus far. The writers, director, actors, singers, and musicians should be proud. I cannot wait to see this show over an over this season.

Before I sign off, I have some suggestions. Please make "I went on the Busch Gardens Coaster Tour, Have You?" buttons. They can be given at the start of the tour and would be great advertisement while roaming around the park; not to mention a great souvenir. If you think this is a good suggestion and make these buttons, may I have one please? I promise to wear it each time I go to the park... even at competing parks.

Also, when I glimpsed into the Griffon control room I was really impressed by the camera angles and immediately another idea popped in my head. I know many people loved the Christmas Town webcam and I think having a "Griffon-Cam" would be a great way to advertise and entice folks to come to the park. Have the camera set right at the top looking down and viewers can log in to see the coaster make the swoop down over and over.

Lastly, I have mentioned "having a Historical Information Section-building-shop" several times, but on the tour another idea came to mind. Having a time-line of historical photos and writings hung around along the wait line in the coaster houses. These photos could start with the construction, to opening day, to each milestone (anniversaries) and on... this would be fun to see as you wait in line and coaster gurus would really enjoy the extra effort.

Also place a nice ad for your coaster tours in the wait lines as well! Get the word out; people will flip over this great opportunity!

Well, that is it. Amazing work this season. I cannot wait to see Europe in the Air and to return again soon. Hopefully my recent concepts and ideas for the park are both simple and cheap; making it possible for the park to easily implement them.

I wish you all well and look for my reviews online soon.

Best wishes!

Chris said:
Oh, by the way Nora, one of my secret projects I was working on this season was a calendar. One of the reasons I'm taking so many pictures this season. But, I guess it's not a secret anymore.
Click to expand...

Chris, I cannot wait to see your calendar and I am sure it will be amazing. You are a very talented photographer! And if the park is not going to make a calendar; no harm in making one for yourself and others. If BGW doesn't make that coaster tour button, you better believe I'll be making my own!! :)
 
I love your idea of the coaster tour button! I'd wear that to the park every time! All of your ideas are great. I hope they listen to half of them, at least.
 
Sorry if I sounded rude. I was on my iPod and didn't feel like typing very much- just wanted to state my opinion.
 
Here's a request i sent to them.
--------------------------------------
Hello,

I was thinking you guys should try to create some sort of mobile app for the
iphone and android OS for the park. Something with maybe a map, or detailed ride
information (closures, height requirements, etc.) and shop info as well. Also it
could have show times, restaurant menus, and maybe some animal and conservation
facts/updates. I don't know how to do all that stuff, but I would if I could.
This could be a cool little tool for everyone at the park that is usually on
their phone or if they want to plan their trip throughout the day. I know you
guys are big into social media and stuff like that, this could be the next step.
 
I've been hoping they would create an iPhone app for awhile. Just like you, if I was good enough or had the time to learn how to make a program I would do it.
 
Well i've been looking into it, the problem is there is no API set up for it and SWPE would have to make that first. Sorry I'm an Engineer I've just been thinking about it too much haha.
 
The only problem i was thinking about wait times, was that they don't even calculate wait times now. But if they had some system where they did, then it could theoretically be done with no problem. You know what, i'm going to go ahead and start a pocket guide thing for android and see what happens.
 
Trust me, if I was on a Mac, I'd be all over making one for iPhone/iPod Touch/iPad and then would port it over to Palm [which is supposed to be very easy to do].
 
Just sent this one in:

Hello and Good Morning.

I was thrilled to find out that BGW will be opened on December 31st! I have posted an idea a long time ago on the BGWFanForums website and have finally gotten around to pass along a new concept to you. In order to capitalize on New Years, you may wish to consider a "celebration around the countries". Since all of Europe is ahead in hours, New Years would be about 7pm our time in France and England, 6 pm in Germany and Italy according to the world clock.

My thought is to have sparkling white wine and grape juice for the kids to purchase and toast in each country; noise makers and poppers could also be sold in little stands at each location. A cultural music or dance celebration can be held for the various countries; much like IllumiNights when you think about it.
____________________________________

My second idea is to put together and establish a "drinks around the world" type passport that can be purchased in the park, and at each drink service location only so IDs may be checked. Preferably, it would be amazing if England could have a Elizabethan era Pub, but regardless a small stand could serve British Ales to sample. France could have various types of wine, Germany could have beer or wine, Italy could have various wines, Ireland would have beer, and Scotland could serve scotch. The samples in each location would be small in order to prevent over indulgence, but yet provide a fun activity for adults. In addition, souvenir glass could also be given with purchase of a passport.

The wines, beers, and ales could be routinely changed so visitors may experience varied "tastings" through out the year. Also, glasses of each beverage can be sold without purchasing a passport at each station for those not inclined to take the "tour".

How this would work. A guest buys a ticket/passport and is given a wrist band that proves the age of 21 or older. The passport is handed to them that gives them opportunity to sample two drinks per country. Make sure that the passport has an area that the taster can write notes and the name of each drink. At each location the passport is stamped after the samples are given. The completed passport can then be punched for a souvenir glass at the Branbury Market in order for guests to keep the memento passport and to remember the drinks they sampled. The price is determined by the cost of the drinks, employees to serve the drinks, and souvenir glass at the end. The glass could be an additional cost if needs be. I am not sure how much items cost at the level of your purchasing power; my guess, pretty good.

Mainly the beverages need to be of high quality at each station. This tour should be a treat to those who enjoy wine and beer tastings. I love this idea and would hope to see it come to fruition. What a fun thing to do and experience with a group of friends!

_______________________________________

Lastly, New France and what to do with it. I have really put my brain into gear on this area and came up with a solution that seems near-perfect. Of course my ideas and concepts may have been thought of already, or other ideas have already been agreed upon; but it never hurts to send them your way. This idea I have also posted a long time ago on the forums, but again, thought it worthy to pass along.

I researched towns and villages on the outskirts of France, near the French Alps and fell across a beautiful area called Alsace. It is located in the eastern part of France, and shares its borders with Germany in the east as well as the Lorraine region in the west. It is considered the smallest region in the country, and it is absolutely gorgeous, nestled in between the Rhine and the Vosges mountains.

Because of the climate and setting, Alsace is also ideal for growing grapes and making wine; the environment is incredibly fertile.

It has many trademarks, not the least of which include: lovely villages and streets with charming, half timbered houses; beautiful mountain scenery; many castles, quite a few in ruins. The personality of Alsace is individual; it is neither solely French nor solely German, but instead exists somewhere in the middle. That may be the reason it is considered to be one of the friendliest regions in all of France.

So what does this all mean? Changing New France to this area makes complete logical sense! Le Scoot, Alpengeist, and the Smokehouse need not be changed. The fact that the area's architecture and history is perfect for 17th-18th century Europe makes it ideal! I think a replica Vinyard wine & cheese shop would be fabulous and new rides would be easy to theme. I would imagine Christmas Town in this area would be beautiful. More than anything, this change would be rather simple and would preserve the area of France while creating an authentic juxtaposition between the two countries.

I have attached links to photos of this region for your perusal.

http://web.france.com/files/legacy_images/alsace.jpg
http://about-france.com/photos/alsace-village.jpg
http://images.travelpod.com/users/cullism/europe_1999.1060050300.2_alsace_-_eguisheim.jpg
http://www.aftouch-cuisine.com/images/regions/Alsace1.jpg
http://www.lesondines57.fr/pic/images/stories/illustrations/alsace.jpg

One more thing...

Has anyone ever thought of making car decals with the Busch Gardens Logo on them?

Thank you for your time and if something I mentioned above sparks your interest and could be used to benefit the park, then it will make me very happy indeed.

Best wishes always,

Nora Marien
 
I know this isn't as well thought out or as well written as some of the posts here but here goes...

Inforce the dress code.

Simple eh?

I may sound like a prudish old man here and maybe I am, but C'mon people, put a damn shirt on. How many times do I need to see someone walking around like they are at Water Country. Is it too much to ask? I was confronted with a 40ish particularly robust woman in Hastings last week (yeah, I said Hastings), that had on nothing but a black bikini top, one those skirtish bikini bottom things and flip flops. It was just out of place. She looked terrible. I figured once a cast member saw her they'd ask her to put on a shirt or something, but alas no. Unfortunately she was oblivious to the awkward stares of her fellow park goers.
Later on the way out I saw another gaggle come in the front gate, through the security check no less, in string bikini tops and shorts. No one stopped them or even asked them to cover up. At least this time the stares were ones of appriciation, lol. Even the guards kept looking back. but I digress.... Yeah, yeah I know I'll get flamed for this, but seriously, this ain't Kings Dominion. I have nothing against bikinis, heavens no. But walking around a theme park you just look silly, and in many cases snicker worthy. I think it cheapens the park experience and thats what sets BGW apart from the rest. How long do you think you could go shirtless at a Disney park?

Even Wal-Mart makes you wear a shirt, sheesh.

I'll step down off my soapbox now and head home to catch the Matlock marathon.

P.S. You kids stay off my lawn!
 
Flamed? I doubt it. I couldn't agree more.

Last time I was there, I was next in line for Apollo and when I looked forward I couldn't believe what I saw. There was a dad with his wife and two kids (one boy and one girl) on the train that was currently being loaded. He had a tattoo covering his leg from the knee down of a topless mermaid. Now this wasn't some low-quality tattoo, you could see everything. How he got past anyone at the front of the park is a wonder to me. If he hadn't of been in front of me, I would of told the ride ops. What kind of person walks around with something like that on their leg in a family theme park?

Also a little note: The experiences I've had reporting people have gone very well. The ride ops handle it very professionally and will not hesitate to call security. I was line-jumped by some rude drunk lady with a very colorful vocabulary on Alpen a few months ago and they immediately brought her and those with her up to the control area, listened to what happened, and called security.
 
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