originally posted on 2/10/2025
Photo: Jackie Edwards. View full-sized image.
January has been tough on the Southern California region. While the residents of the Pacific Southwest area are very fortunate to be able to experience their parks year-round and the region was thrilled to share them with those who experience cold winters, dry weather and Santa Ana winds in the region have led to massive fires burning in the Los Angeles and San Diego areas. Unfortunately, this led to many members in the region evacuating their homes.
ERT on Electric Eel and Emperor was a highlight for those in attendance.
Photo: Derek Perry. View full-sized image.
Photo: Derek Perry. View full-sized image.
On Saturday, January 11, while fires were still very present in the Los Angeles area, 52 ACEers came from across the country for Gills and Thrills and the ACE Pacific Southwest premiere of the “The Legacy of Schwarzkopf” documentary at SeaWorld San Diego (California). Many members from the Los Angeles area were thankful to escape the smoke and enjoy the day in the San Diego sunshine. Most attendees were from the region, but there were also ACEers from Utah, Pennsylvania, Florida, Kentucky and Georgia. Whether folks were escaping the fires or the cold, the region was happy to treat everyone in attendance to morning ERT on Electric Eel and Emperor. The small group size meant no lines or waiting so there were many re-rides to be had on both coasters. This was also the first year that Gills and Thrills T-shirts were available for sale prior to and at the event.
“The Legacy of Schwarzkopf” documentary was introduced by Scott Schaffer, and was rivaled in entertainment value by a presentation about jellyfish.
Photo: Derek Perry. View full-sized image.
Photos: Jackie Edwards. View full-sized image.
View full-sized image.
Photo: Derek Perry. View full-sized image.
The group enjoyed an amazing lunch buffet while watching the documentary premiere, which was introduced by one of the filmmakers, Scott Schaffer. The response from the group following the movie illustrated what an amazing job the filmmakers did.
Attendees also had a visit from some jellyfish and learned about these misunderstood creatures that will be featured in the new jellyfish experience opening at the park this year. This was followed by a presentation by Jim Potter, vice president of rides and maintenance. Potter talked about placing the holiday lights on the Sky Tower and gave everyone a fascinating fact about the braking system before the first drop on Emperor — the train doesn’t stop before the drop; it just moves very slowly. The park also continued working on Journey to Atlantis during the park’s “winter” season, replacing 50 miles of wire.
Additional fun was had with ACE takeovers of Manta and the Orca Encounter. Those attending the Orca Encounter got an “Inside Look” at the bridge that goes over the Orca enclosure, a special treat that many don’t get to see. Attendees also took part in an ACE takeover of the “Inside Look” of SeaWorld Rescue. Employees explained what is involved when they get a call about an animal in need of rescue. Seeing the vehicles used and animal facilities was a great learning experience.
— Jackie Edwards, ACE Pacific Southwest Region Representative
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