astromattical

Drachen Fire at Busch Gardens. 1994. That was also my very first roller coaster, period.

I can understand your point of view, but I also disagree with it. I did not become interested in aviation from reading aviation books (and I read plenty of them) and watching TV shows growing up. I became interested in it because my dad took me to airshows and plane spotting at airports. I didn't become interested in science from reading books about physics, etc. I became interested from building and launching model rockets, remote control airplanes, doing chemistry experiments, etc. There is no argument that can be made against seeing things in person, being close, and even better direct physical contact. That type of connection cannot be made, not even close, through a television or on paper. SeaWorld provides that type of direct connection with orcas, dolphins, sharks, etc. that many people would never otherwise have the opportunity to get. I agree that there are those that are there for the sheer entertainment of it - heck, I'm entertained when I go. But there are those (myself included) that are utterly fascinated by it on a level far above sheer entertainment. You cannot deny that the experience that some (if not many) people get at SeaWorld has an incredible and tangible positive benefit. The experiences I got growing up from direct connection to science and nature made me interested in medicine, and I now routinely care for patients ranging from 23 weeks gestational age to the elderly in intensive care units. Taking away access to experiences such as those that SeaWorld provides will have a detrimental effect on our society, I have no doubt about it. Needless to say, I am disappointed in the announcement and hope that it will soon be reversed. In the meantime, I am glad I can take my boys there and see them before they're gone, if it reaches that point. I was able to take my oldest there this past summer and seeing his reaction was priceless - I couldn't help but imagine the completely innocent fascination, wonder, and awe he felt there.

BGW was my first park in 1996 with Drachen Fire being my first roller coaster. Today, my son will get to go to the park I grew up at. He is way too young to remember anything about it, but there will be plenty of pictures!!!

Newton is not the way to go. The new way to go is FVD++. Leaps and bounds more powerful than Newton.

I don't have a least favorite - the big factor that makes or break an element is the execution by the engineers. As far as Arrow and cobra rolls, I don't recall seeing anyone properly clarify here. I believe Arrow called it a Batwing, and it was only on Drachen Fire. Someone correct me if I am wrong. Speaking of cobra rolls...by far my favorite element - the one on Alpengeist takes the #1 spot.

Purchase two EC-145s and donate them to an air ambulance service under the condition that I be hired on (for free...duh) as a pilot. I'd also purchase a Citation X and a Cirrus SR22-G3 Turbo. I'd go on a ton of awesome vacations. Sandals in Nassau. Drool.

I agree. Reading this, and then realizing all I have is peanut butter and jelly, is depressing. (Hey, it's either that or I eat the food the Navy provides for me...I'll take the PB&J) Awesome pictures - clearly everyone had a great time.

Corpsman, U.S. Navy.

Nope - extremely close, but no cigar. Unfortunately, my orders still haven't posted so no idea when I'll be moving back.

Thanks for the TR, Chuck! I really hope I get to move to the area before the end of HOS!

Hands down, Manta at Sea World Orlando. I go bonkers over it every time.

Since joining the Navy, it has been difficult being away from BGW. I'm about to finish up my initial training, and got my first set of orders. Imagine my joy when I saw that I was going to be stationed just "down the road" (20-30 minute drive) from BGW. I can't wait - might be there with enough time to hit up Howl-O-Scream, and certainly Christmas Town!

Nonstop - Kings Dominion: 34 on Hurler followed immediately by 27 on Rebel Yell. Long day. Fun day. Busch Gardens - 30+ on Drachen Fire without getting off on a quiet day. 37 on Apollo's Chariot - even had the crew keeping count for a friend and I, and they were making announcements to the station. Haha...nerds. Most total, probably 300+ on Drachen Fire over a few years.

Busch Gardens, Williamsburg this coming Saturday.

Great pictures, CFC - I'm guessing you're Chuck? Saw a few things I didn't come across on Saturday. I'm going to try to make it out there just about every weekend for the rest of the season as long as I can swing it, even if for only a few hours. This is the first season I've really had the opportunity to watch the progression from "normal" to "Howl-O-Scream".