Beverage vending getting ridiculous...
Walking through the park yesterday, I noticed something disturbing.
We've all known for some time now that the beverage prices are out of hand, outrageous, and in general out to lunch, but some people persist in paying the ridiculous price, so we have very little chance of seeing any meaningful reduction.
Well, if you ever needed any proof that the beverage prices are ridiculous, that proof now exists, at the very least next to the Raptor entrance and in front of Gemini in the form of vending machines which accept credit cards. Not only do these machines accept credit cards, they do not accept cash.
What is the world coming to? Beverages should not be so expensive as to require that you take out a loan (which is what you are doing when you use a credit card) to buy one. I have no idea how popular the machines are, but as for me, I'll just go get a Coke out of the cooler in the trunk of the car...
--Dave Althoff, Jr.
We've all known for some time now that the beverage prices are out of hand, outrageous, and in general out to lunch, but some people persist in paying the ridiculous price, so we have very little chance of seeing any meaningful reduction.
Well, if you ever needed any proof that the beverage prices are ridiculous, that proof now exists, at the very least next to the Raptor entrance and in front of Gemini in the form of vending machines which accept credit cards. Not only do these machines accept credit cards, they do not accept cash.
What is the world coming to? Beverages should not be so expensive as to require that you take out a loan (which is what you are doing when you use a credit card) to buy one. I have no idea how popular the machines are, but as for me, I'll just go get a Coke out of the cooler in the trunk of the car...
--Dave Althoff, Jr.
Interestingly, my step dad went to CP on the first of October for the first time in about 20 years. He also commented about the price of pop. Still, if you’ve priced beverages like coffee or pop at places like Blossom Music Center or what passes for Cleveland Stadium nowadays, Cedar point looks like a relative bargain. The same argument applies to the deserts and treats offered at the park when compared to eating at an even modestly upscale place like Red Lobster. The fact is, the prices at CP may be higher than what our wallets would like, but they are in line with other major entertainment attractions.
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- Raptor Dave (not "Raptor Man Dave")
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- Raptor Dave (not "Raptor Man Dave")
I would have to guess that the purpose of the credit card machines is convenience, not the fact that pop costs so much. Some people don't want to carry around a lot of cash in the park. If you can use your credit card (and I would guess that you can also use debit cards even though I haven't seen the machines) then some people would prefer this. It does seem strange that the machines only take credit cards though. You would think that they would take both cash and credit.
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...and enjoy the rest of your day at Cedar Point, The Am-aaaa-zement park!
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...and enjoy the rest of your day at Cedar Point, The Am-aaaa-zement park!
I for one am very glad to hear that these machines are showing up at the park. I was wondering to myself not too long ago when they would come out with machines that accept credit cards. I have had a check card for about a year and a half now and it is so convenient. The only time I ever use cash anymore is if a place doesn't accept VISA (such as fast food places). Check cards are run through the system just like credit cards, so these pop machines will accept any check/debit card that has the proper emblem on it (VISA, MasterCard, etc.). I love the convenience of not having a bunch of pocket change and paper money to have to deal with.
Saying the price at CP is a "bargain" compared to another park, stadium, or anything else isn't really an argument. It's a great thing that CP's beverages cost more than they do at Stadium A or Concert Hall B, but that means nothing when you look at the big picture. Bottom line: The price of pop/soda is pretty outrageous most places.
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How dare you vanquish the Steel Phantom without his consent? Fear the Phantom's Revenge.
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How dare you vanquish the Steel Phantom without his consent? Fear the Phantom's Revenge.
Beverage prices being in line with other forms of entertainment doesn't validate the situation. It's not capitalism, it's greed. Carbonated Soda (pop - depending on where you're from) offers the human body very little. Although a nice cool wet drink like that can have an overall cooling effect, they are diuretics they are also full of strange ingredients and packed with sugar. Sometimes it feels as if the public is held hostage by giant beverage corporations. Are there even any healthful alternatives? Sure, bottled water, another great marketing scam. As for the credit cards, yes, it increases convenience for those who don't happen to carry a wad of singles everywhere they go but it also increases impulse sales. It's a disturbing trend that will probably only increase in popularity. Yet another reason to boycott the vending machines and make the trudge to the cooler in the car or use the fountain.
Red Lobster is considered 'upscale' these days??? What is the world comming too?
As I agree that the pop prices are insane, it's a captive audience. Anyone else remember back in the early 80's when the picnic area's were INSIDE the park? You could bring coolers full of your favorite beverages/food/goodies and never have to buy anything from them. Of course, you can still do this but now it's more of a 'nuciance' if you have to go around to get back into the park to buy something.
Thier beer prices are actually a two-fold deal. Yes it's the raised prices of a park, but also, at $4.75/beer, it makes it DAMN expensive to go there and get just blotto out of your skull.
Of course when a bar in CP goes through 16 kegs in one day, and clears over $9k in beer sales, I'd say it's pretty easy money.
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Looking for me?? Take a guess where you'll find me...
As I agree that the pop prices are insane, it's a captive audience. Anyone else remember back in the early 80's when the picnic area's were INSIDE the park? You could bring coolers full of your favorite beverages/food/goodies and never have to buy anything from them. Of course, you can still do this but now it's more of a 'nuciance' if you have to go around to get back into the park to buy something.
Thier beer prices are actually a two-fold deal. Yes it's the raised prices of a park, but also, at $4.75/beer, it makes it DAMN expensive to go there and get just blotto out of your skull.
Of course when a bar in CP goes through 16 kegs in one day, and clears over $9k in beer sales, I'd say it's pretty easy money.
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Looking for me?? Take a guess where you'll find me...
Why not just kill 2 birds with one stone? Combine the ATM with the pop machines!
IMO it's a good idea overall, many people carry debit cards these days. I think thats the idea behind these machines. Chances are good that maintenince will be cheaper on these "card only machines". Less paper jam I would think...no need to store bulky change either.
-cm
IMO it's a good idea overall, many people carry debit cards these days. I think thats the idea behind these machines. Chances are good that maintenince will be cheaper on these "card only machines". Less paper jam I would think...no need to store bulky change either.
-cm
Forget the water fountains (except Blue Streak's, 12-E's and Park Op's, of course:)). All walk-up food stands in the park will give you a cup of ice water if you ask.
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Scott W. Short
scott@midwestcoastercentral.com
http://www.midwestcoastercentral.com
*** This post was edited by ShiveringTim on 10/2/2000. ***
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Scott W. Short
scott@midwestcoastercentral.com
http://www.midwestcoastercentral.com
*** This post was edited by ShiveringTim on 10/2/2000. ***
Hmmm - there are exceptions to this "held hostage" rule. At Knoebels, you're welcome to bring in as much food or drink as you want, and, of course, at Holiday World, they GIVE their pop away.
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Age and treachery will always overcome youth and skill. *** This post was edited by spewey on 10/3/2000. ***
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Age and treachery will always overcome youth and skill. *** This post was edited by spewey on 10/3/2000. ***
I only drink H2O while at the park anyways. The only time I buy a pop is at meal time like at Silver Dollar Cafe or something like that. Otherwise...FREE water.
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MF Laps-14
"HOW CAN YOU HAVE ANY PUDDING IF YOU DONT EAT YOUR MEAT?!"
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MF Laps-14
"HOW CAN YOU HAVE ANY PUDDING IF YOU DONT EAT YOUR MEAT?!"
Well Rob sweetie...I think there's a reason it costs so much to get whacked out of your skull. Wanna know it?
I'd guess CP doesn't WANT people running around hammered, because that leads to more general disruptions, people disobeying rules because their drunkenness gives them that invincible feeling ya get when ya drink, and probably guest illnesses on coasters also. I know that as a ride operator, if someone is visually intoxicated, we are not really supposed to let them ride, as they then become a hazard to themselves and to other guests riding the ride. IE, when you're drunk it sounds like a great idea to try to dive out of the raft on Thunder Canyon.
As far as beverage prices go, no comment. *grins*
Oh, and Scott, as a former sweep I can tell ya that this season, the water fountains on the Frontier Trail, particularly the one across from the Pet Farm, were the coldest water fountains from which I've ever had the pleasure of drinking.
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Natalie
CP Ride Operations '99-'00
*** This post was edited by Backstreet Girl on 10/2/2000. ***
I'd guess CP doesn't WANT people running around hammered, because that leads to more general disruptions, people disobeying rules because their drunkenness gives them that invincible feeling ya get when ya drink, and probably guest illnesses on coasters also. I know that as a ride operator, if someone is visually intoxicated, we are not really supposed to let them ride, as they then become a hazard to themselves and to other guests riding the ride. IE, when you're drunk it sounds like a great idea to try to dive out of the raft on Thunder Canyon.
As far as beverage prices go, no comment. *grins*
Oh, and Scott, as a former sweep I can tell ya that this season, the water fountains on the Frontier Trail, particularly the one across from the Pet Farm, were the coldest water fountains from which I've ever had the pleasure of drinking.
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Natalie
CP Ride Operations '99-'00
*** This post was edited by Backstreet Girl on 10/2/2000. ***
Natalie.. have to agree with you on the drinking fountains.. my favorite was always the one on the Gristmill Patio.. but that doesn't seem to be as cold as it used to be..
I agree with you Nat... I think it's a good thing that the policy is in effect.. Keeps people at least somewhat sensable..
Last thing we need is people hurting themselves out of stupidity (even though it still happens when guests are sober, but of course you can't stop stupidity when it's genetic) and giving the park a bad rep for injuries...
But still, some people feel the need.. ever see the empties out in the parking lot late at night??
I mean I spend most of the time in Red Garter watching the shows.. not killing brain cells, I DO like to be able to enjoy a ride..
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Looking for me?? Take a guess where you'll find me... *** This post was edited by Red Garter Rob on 10/2/2000. ***
Last thing we need is people hurting themselves out of stupidity (even though it still happens when guests are sober, but of course you can't stop stupidity when it's genetic) and giving the park a bad rep for injuries...
But still, some people feel the need.. ever see the empties out in the parking lot late at night??
I mean I spend most of the time in Red Garter watching the shows.. not killing brain cells, I DO like to be able to enjoy a ride..
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Looking for me?? Take a guess where you'll find me... *** This post was edited by Red Garter Rob on 10/2/2000. ***
Good Lord this has turned into a discussion about THE BEST WATER FOUNTAIN! Well since were talking about the best here's my list:)
Best Trash Can Gemini Midway
Best Napkin Dispenser Dragon's Inn
Best Bathroom Fronteir Trail
I just go up to the nearest stand ask for a cup of ice and suck on the ice while I'm standing in the queue. The only thing I buy any thing from any vending machine it's a bag of crispy M&M's to have with my ice. I'll get a Pepsi if I'm going to sit down and eat something. Otherwise I avoid vending machines. Maybe an ICEE once in a while.
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Remember, line jumping is NOT a sporting event!
Best Trash Can Gemini Midway
Best Napkin Dispenser Dragon's Inn
Best Bathroom Fronteir Trail
I just go up to the nearest stand ask for a cup of ice and suck on the ice while I'm standing in the queue. The only thing I buy any thing from any vending machine it's a bag of crispy M&M's to have with my ice. I'll get a Pepsi if I'm going to sit down and eat something. Otherwise I avoid vending machines. Maybe an ICEE once in a while.
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Remember, line jumping is NOT a sporting event!
well.. the best bathroom.. IS an important issue :) and as far as employees are concerned ( especially Sweeps..) The best drinking fountain is important. Employees can't get a cup of ice water from the stands.
*** This post was edited by Jenn on 10/2/2000. ***
I think Natas has the best response to Dave's original post. The reason that plastic for pop is there isn't because you "need a loan" to buy soda, it's totally a convenience thing. I hate carrying cash, because it seems I never have enough of it. On the other hand I always have my check card with me, and if I lose it, I'm only liable for the first $50 in fraudulent charges, which beats the heck out of losing $100 (the average amount I spend at an "away" park). I can use it everywhere Visa is accepted. I even use it at Boston Market, BW-3 and Midway Market.
I noticed the charge-it-sodas a few weeks ago, and I welcome them as one less thing I need to carry cash for!
This kind of goes back to the bigger issue of what you should have to pay for a soda, and I personally find $2 not to be a big deal. I'm on vacation, who cares, it's not going to break me. Because amusement parks are a leisure activity like concerts, ball games and the like it is fair to compare them, and Cedar Point isn't that bad. Remember, you don't need soda to exist, it is optional. The water is still free. Still, most people seem to be able to deal with the $2 because they sure do buy a lot of it. Heck, the same is true for Six Flags and Paramount parks, and that is getting a little high.
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Jeff
Webmaster/Guide to The Point
Millennium Force laps: 45
I noticed the charge-it-sodas a few weeks ago, and I welcome them as one less thing I need to carry cash for!
This kind of goes back to the bigger issue of what you should have to pay for a soda, and I personally find $2 not to be a big deal. I'm on vacation, who cares, it's not going to break me. Because amusement parks are a leisure activity like concerts, ball games and the like it is fair to compare them, and Cedar Point isn't that bad. Remember, you don't need soda to exist, it is optional. The water is still free. Still, most people seem to be able to deal with the $2 because they sure do buy a lot of it. Heck, the same is true for Six Flags and Paramount parks, and that is getting a little high.
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Jeff
Webmaster/Guide to The Point
Millennium Force laps: 45
...Not only that, but I had an enormously tough time finding a vending machine that worked! Even though there were four paper money machines, none worked...
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Ban(shee Man)tis, what's not to get...?
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Ban(shee Man)tis, what's not to get...?
Natalie...
About that drunk guy that you're not supposed to let ride...actually, you are legally required to deny that person access to the ride. Here, I'll quote chapter and verse...
Ohio Department of Agriculture Rule #901:9-1-06 (G): The operator of an amusement ride or device shall have the authority to view patrons so that no one is permitted on such ride who appears to be in an intoxicated, drugged or other condition that could be detrimental to the safety of the patrons, the operator or bystanders. An operator shall exercise reasonable control to prohibit the wearing of improper attire as prescribed by the owner/operator, and prohibit the carrying of any article which might be dropped from the ride.
--Dave Althoff, Jr.
(I was just pointing out that CP now has card-operated vending machines...and besides, the really cold drinking fountain is the one just down the stairs from Alaska...)
About that drunk guy that you're not supposed to let ride...actually, you are legally required to deny that person access to the ride. Here, I'll quote chapter and verse...
Ohio Department of Agriculture Rule #901:9-1-06 (G): The operator of an amusement ride or device shall have the authority to view patrons so that no one is permitted on such ride who appears to be in an intoxicated, drugged or other condition that could be detrimental to the safety of the patrons, the operator or bystanders. An operator shall exercise reasonable control to prohibit the wearing of improper attire as prescribed by the owner/operator, and prohibit the carrying of any article which might be dropped from the ride.
--Dave Althoff, Jr.
(I was just pointing out that CP now has card-operated vending machines...and besides, the really cold drinking fountain is the one just down the stairs from Alaska...)
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