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: [email protected]. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

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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