Homer

From your TR, Tom, it seems like Valleyfair! needs to be named "The Ben Stein of amusement parks."

Looks like its becoming chainwide. Screamscape just posted that Six Flags America is doing the same thing with Superman and Wild One. http://www.screamscape.com/html/six_flags_america.htm

Yes, Dad's meatloaf is a godsend on days before a test. Is it sunny outside your window?

You could always get some straps for your glasses and tie them around your head. As for storing camera/camera accessories, what are you bringing other than a DSLR? If you have a tripod/other professional gear, you might want to look at the park rules for each park. Some SF parks (I know Six Flags Magic Mountain for sure) have a policy that prohibits professional photography gear/accessories. If you're just bringing a camera, the only safe place for it is in a locker. Sure, some parks may allow you to leave your stuff in at the station, but its quite risky since other guests may steal it. As for wallets, you might want to buy a pair of cargo shorts. If you leave it in your back pocket, most cargo shorts have Velcro covers that will surely keep your wallet safe. Hope that helps.

Great TR, Morgan! I've been looking all over for the name of the park built out of a nuclear power plant. I saw it once when I was 12 in an issue of Nickelodeon magazine and I forgot the name of it! Still an interesting "WTF" park. Also, did you see any 3-eyed fish?

Sorry to hear about your loss, Shari. Even though my family aren't thrill seekers, probably some of my favorite and most sentimental park trips came from my parents. I miss the days of when I was 11 or 12, every week my Dad, sister, sometimes one of my friends, and I would drive up to BGT and ride the rides until we had to head back at 4. If it were not for my dad, chances are I would still be a wuss. If my parents had time and were willing to go, I would like to take them up to WDW one last time someday. They're not thrill seekers, but drat, they're my parents! Someday it will mean so much more to you indeed.

No. Have you used a post-it note today?

People, save up some money for cargo shorts if your so drat worried about "looking like a tourist" with a fanny pack on. You can get a decent pair of cargo shorts for $20 that have zipper pockets. As for backpacks, the only time I'd probably wear a backpack is probably when I become a parent of young children and drag along a diaper bag. Other than that, a backpack is extra drag that is more of an inconvenience. Same with souvenir cups and popcorn buckets. Again, just save some money for cargo shorts (and look for a pair with a zipper pocket(s)).

On the subject of brand name stores, At least Aeropostale and American Eagle have some sense. However, you can find some Hollister and Abercrombie at TJ Maxx (if your lucky) once in a while.

No. Have you been on a vacation this year?

"Hate You" - Reel Big Fish

Am I the only one that was disturbed just looking at the thread title?

Yes, mainly for driving through on 275 or for a Rays game. Have you read a Far Side book?

"Underclass Hero" - Sum 41

They wouldn't do that. The Cyclone is a city monument and I doubt NYC would lay a wrecking ball on Cyclone. It seems kind of dismal that Coney Island was practically king of all parks back in the 1900's has kind of toppled down and deteriorated into a park many people consider "ghetto." From pics I have seen, the area needs a refurbishment and update. Hopefully the plans happen and Coney Island becomes the star destination it once was.

No, but on the Midwest trip I might have to do that. Are you going to/Have you been to a community college?

"Party Down" - Reel Big Fish

Quoted for the truth. I have talked and flirted to some girls, the subject of rides came up. Girls like them but I doubt they would be "like us" and be all "Did you hear about that new B&M some park is getting!?" And whatever women I have seen on forums, they were either older and/or married. Like Wes said, you're better off getting a girl and "converting" her. If you're looking for girls, on a serious note, DON'T put your favorite hobby as a first priority. Just flirt with a girl and hope it clicks and if it doesn't, then move on.

Great TR Derek. No wonder why Shapiro thinks TGE is his personal favorite park in the SF chain, it looks like a beautiful park with a retro charm and pretty areas. Also, glad you totally owned La Ronde for credits and actually make me think the park is beautiful after that other La Ronde TR that was posted a few weeks ago. Glad to hear that the park isn't a total mess with cleanliness and operations.

I'm cool with Carey as Bob's replacement. I doubt he would have the charm Bob had, but if he remains somewhat funny, at least The Price is Right will remain the only good thing about daytime TV.

A great series of trips comes to an end. Thanks for all of the updates that you worked hard on to satisfy the readers. It also makes me wish is there a way possible to accelerate time to one week from now? Again, seriously awesome trip you all had and makes my anticipation for the Midwest trip even higher. Thanks for the updates, they were really fun to read and the POV's were awesome.

God, this kinda makes me scared of wave pools now. Creepy how they still operated the ride even though they didn't notice a dead body floating there. I hope I don't get a nightmare tonight and I feel sorry for the family.

^Guess I try too hard to be "funny" then.

^ Crazier < I taste like chicken. v Tastes like beef.

Too many big things happening this week and next week. Tuesday I have college orientation, Saturday- (next) Wednesday I am heading up to a youth gathering in Orlando, and on (next) Thursday I go off on the TPR Midwest Trip!