After visiting Lake Compounce for the first time on a rainy summer weekend day in 2003, it became apparent how different the Lake was compared to the park where I had purchased my season's pass that year, Six Flags New England. Although it was raining and crowds were thin, Lake Compounce was operating at 100%. Even the attractions at the far end of the park--Thunder Rapids Raft Ride and Sky Ride--were fully staffed and available to ride. The park's signature thrill ride, Boulder Dash Mountain Coaster, absolutely blew me away with its mountain layout and smooth speed. When I left the park, I spotted then General Manager Tom Wages who I recognized from the PBS television special, Great Old Amusement Parks, and introduced myself to him so I could thank him for the great job he and his staff were doing. On future visits to the park, I noticed Tom and other supervisors pitching in with different tasks that some management types might feel are beneath them. I've personally seen Tom assisting at the parking gate, collecting tickets at the front gate, sweeping trash, and greeting folks as they were leaving.

After further comparisons between Lake Compounce and Six Flags New England, I decided that the pluses at the Lake (more friendly and efficient staff, less waiting in lines for major rides, more pleasant clientele) were enough to persuade me to drive a bit further for a better amusement park experience. I purchased a season's pass for 2004 and decided to build a Lake Compounce tribute site for fans to share their experiences, and for potential fans to learn more about the park from fan's perspective with no advertising or official endorsement from the park.

In March of 2005, current GM Jerry Brick invited me and the Lake Compounce Fan Forum members to an off-season tour of the park. The over 40 of us in attendance realized just how important we are to the park, and the feeling is mutual. This season, look for LakeCompounce.org photos in the Croc Pot (the revamped food cafeteria near the water). I hope more Lake Compounce guests will enjoy the web site, make contributions, and join our Fan Forum.

And me? I've been a roller coaster fan since my dad took me on the Mountain Flyer at Mountain Park in Holyoke, MA back in the late '70s. But this site isn't about me; it's about Lake Compounce and its fans, so I'll see you on the Fan Forum!

Joshua B
Hudson, MA