Meteornotes

Top 5 is the show by which all other TV programs are judged...and they fail in comparison! How can you not worship a program that will take a topic like "Top 5 Things That Taste Like Chicken" and have the balls to make the #1 pick chicken?!? Pure genius, I tell you... Dave "Food Network Owns" Thomas

My wife also pretty much only likes plain food, though she will eat beef and chicken. But she's not a pain about it, and is really cool about my wanting to eat odd stuff, and will just get rice or chicken if we get to a japanese restaurant. I try to convince her that sushi is plain food, since it's just fish and rice, but so far I have had no success... dt

Goliath t-shirt sweatpants socks Dave "why the hell am I awake so damn early?" Thomas

It’s been four years since I last set foot in LA. Mary had never been there, other than during a lay over on the way to Australia, so it seemed like a good time for a visit. Besides seeing friends and doing some random sightseeing (and enjoying LA traffic) we visited two local parks. First up was Knott’s, a park I had not visited since Solace 2001. Over the last four years, I’ve read all sorts of stories about how the park has deteriorated, how all the rides now suck, how operations have gone to hell and so on. I was curious to see what the years had done to a park that I once considered one of the best parks in the country… So after a fun-filled drive in LA traffic, we arrive at Knott’s shortly after 9 in the morning on Saturday. Why so early? Because we were getting passes, and we warned by our hosts for the day (Robb & Elissa) that getting passes would take awhile. They were not kidding. The pass processing place opened a bit after 9:30, with one person working in the building. At various points throughout the process, a random person had to enter the room and enter a coupon code into the computer, and then disappear. Also, two random employees entered the room, were confused by the camera equipment, and also left the room. At one point, the one woman asked “Do you know how to use a camera?” and I thought she was asking the people in the line waiting for their passes…but it turns out she was addressing one of the confused drones that really seemed like they had been picked up that morning out of LA’s homeless population and put into a Knott’s uniform to play some odd practical joke on either Knott’s or the people waiting. Anyway, we eventually did get our passes after about twenty minutes of waiting, and were actually done before the park opened. I felt sorry for the people waiting in line behind us (and it was quite a long line at this point). So we wander over to the front gates to notice a few things. The first was a giant cobra roll towering over the entrance. That was certainly different than the last time I was there. We also noticed the Closed Attractions sign contained no listed rides, which we thought was a good sign. The last thing I noted was the crowd gathered around the gate. It used to be that Knott’s drew a predominantly family crowd. The crowd gathered outside of the gates (and it was a pretty large one) reminded me of the crowd I used to see at SFMM in the ‘90’s when I lived in LA. Lots of teens/early 20’s, most of them shouting, cursing, shoving and the like. This really was not the type of crowd I was used to seeing at Knott’s and figured it was because the park has more “extreme” rides now. It was certainly different. So the gates open on time, and we go over to Silver Bullet, figuring that this will get the longest line. I have to say that seeing this section of the park was really strange from what I’m used to seeing here. I know parks have to change over time and all, but this still was sort of shocking to see, especially the new spilled bucket of water, err, “lake”. Anyway, we get up to the station, and watch them test the ride for awhile (interesting that the park didn’t seem to test the ride before 10 AM). After some test cycles and watching some line jumping, we get on the back row. Now, I really didn’t have a whole lot of high expectations for this ride, some because of the reviews I read comparing it to Talon, a ride I’m not too keen on, and some because B&M in general in the last few years really has not put out what I consider a kick-ass ride. I like the more intense ones, like Fire Dragon or Montu or Batman. But I’m willing to give it a chance, and I always figure that a bad B&M is usually better than a lot of other rides. So anyway, after waiting for them to check everyone, we’re off. We get to the top of the lift, and start to drop down, and immediately it seems like there’s not a great feeling of speed like on most other inverts. Sadly this continued throughout the ride, as it just never really generates a real sense of excitement. The ride moves through its course, and it feels like more of a graceful steel ballet than a kick ass ride experience. It’s very smooth, very quiet and not horrible, but at the same time it doesn’t deliver the sort of ride I look for in an inverted coaster. I’m sure that Knott’s got exactly the sort of ride they wanted, but to me this was the weakest B&M inverted coaster I’ve ever experienced. It’s a shame it doesn’t have a 48 inch height limit, as this would really make a good family coaster. So my first new credit is out of the way for the year, and we head over to Ghostrider. Now, I’ve also read all sorts of stuff about this ride over the years, some saying that it’s Silver Bullet smooth, and others saying that the ride has deteriorated to the point where riding Son Of Beast while midgets poke you with stun guns in your spine would be pleasurable in comparison. I was somewhat apprehensive, as I really like this coaster and would be really disappointed to see it in sad shape. While waiting in the station, we witnessed more line jumping (yay!) and obnoxious language and behavior by the crowd. Eventually I get settled in the front seat of the back car, and preparing for the worst, head out of the station. But my fears were unnecessary. Yes, it doesn’t ride exactly like it did when it first opened. Yes, it was a bit rough in spots, but it was not unrideable, and I thought for a day time ride not that long after the park opened, Ghostrider actually delivered a pretty damn good ride. I guess it did just come out of rehab (though how much rehab you can do to a wood coaster in two weeks I’m unsure of), and the capacity seems really bad, as they were constantly stacking trains (we decided they should open a gift shop/bar out on the brake run, since you get to spend so much time out there). Though I suppose some of this can be attributed to park patrons, as I witnessed more than one staring at the seatbelt sort of like a caveman would stare at a remote control. This ride also featured some of the new “interaction” that I dreaded, where some employee attempted to excite the crowd with random banter over the PA system. A bad idea made worse by the fact that this guy has an excellent future as a subway announcer, as he was impossible to understand, keeping me from discovering if he was truly funny or not. From what I could understand, though, he was not… Our next stop was to be Xcelerator. I’ve been looking forward to riding this for awhile, especially since riding Storm Runner this past year. We get to the ride and there’s no line. Yay! Wait, there’s no line because the ride is not running. And one of the trains is torn apart and is in pieces. And there’s no one working on the ride. This does not bode well. It turns out the ride is in rehab, though this was not noted on the sign out front. We walk pass Perilous Plunge, which was also closed. We walk towards the Screaming Swing, and that whole section of the park is closed off for repaving. On a Saturday. And the park was pretty busy, and seemed to be getting busier. OK, yeah, it has been raining a lot in CA, so perhaps this was the only time they could do this work. But still, to not note rehab rides on the sign outside (since there’s no damn way Xclerator was going to be open any time soon) and closing off a section of the park seemed kind of lame. So we head back the way we came and eventually decide to ride the log flume. They were only running one loading side, and it took us about fifteen minutes or so to get on. This is still one of the best log rides out there, though it looks like some of the interior could use a bit of work. It’s good that we rode when we did, as the line had GREATLY increased in size when we got off. Actually, at this point, almost everything we passed had a much longer line. I wanted to ride La Revolution (I think that’s the name), but the line was massive, and since I was told it runs pretty much the same as the one at Dorney (which means it won’t be very exciting and really short) we skipped it. We thought about riding Jaguar, but they were doing their infamous and confusing “one train empty, one train full” operation, and still managing to stack the trains for a good three minutes outside the station every time. I’m not sure how you can do this with one empty train, but, um, they were. We eventually found ourselves on Montezuma’s, and after a ride, we all decided that this was still the best ride in the park. It’s great that they still have this ride here, though it’s sort of sad it’s still the most forceful coaster in the park (well, Xcelerator might be better. I’ll have to wait to find out, though). We walked back past Silver Bullet, thinking we’d try it again, but one look at the lengthy line had us give up that idea. The park was pretty damn crowded, no doubt because it was probably the first nice weekend CA residents had seen for awhile, so we just decided to leave. I’ll admit, I had a better time here than I thought I would, but the park has changed, and likely not for the better. The operations didn’t seem as good as they once were, and the way some sections of the park look would really just take me awhile to get used to (I miss the lake). The “interaction” on the microphones has GOT to go, as it’s annoying and proves again that people that think they’re funny never are. The crowd in the park was really obnoxious, and line jumping is a big problem that really needs to be watched over. And how hard is it to staff the season pass processing booth with two people, or list your rehab rides on the “closed” sign? Sadly, this is not the Knott’s I was used to, and while it’s not the hellhole that some have described, I certainly wouldn’t rank the park nearly as high as I used to. Ah well, at least I got one credit…

OK, I'll keep it spoiler free for our west coast viewers, but the two hour premiere of the new season of Amazing Race was on tonight, and it was damn entertaining. There are some really amusing teams in the race this time, and the show is up to its usual standard of comedy. I don't like most reality shows but this one amuses me to no end. Who else is watching? dt

Some of the wisest words I've ever read... Dave "looking forward to the awesome horror that is Branson!" Thomas

Like Gregg, I'm impressed how everyone here has been respectful of everyone else's opinions. On pretty much any other site, this topic would have already been closed and about five hundred people banned... Anyway, I don't believe. I've tried in the past, read the bible a couple of times, went to churches of different denominations, and in the end this is just something that doesn't do anything for me. If other people want to believe, I have no problem with it, until someone decides they must "save" me. Then there is trouble... dt

Of all the ones I've stayed at, The Boardwalk is easily my favorite. It has the perfect location, it's really nice, and has a cool pool too! I'm staying at The Swan soon, so we'll see how that compares... dt

I haven't listened to radio on a regular basis (other than Stern) since KNAC went off the air. It's all about the MP3 player. Though satellite radio does interest me... dt

Until Quiznos gets rid of that stupid talking baby in their commercial, I refuse to eat there... dt

I don't know the highest number, but I remember Robb and I riding Rebel Yell 27 times in a row at the Hypersonic media day. Instead of waiting in a four hour line for Hypersonic, we enjoyed Rebel Yell and Hurler, which were running better than any other time I've been to PKD! Another memorable moment was at the ACE con in 2000 at Holiday World, where we had three triple rides in a row after midnight. After the rides I remarked "If I have any more fun, I am going to die". Some of the best coaster rides ever... dt

PKI - Wow, what a lackluster collection of rides. And it's really crowded. And it's hot. And it's not fun. One visit was enough. PCW - See above. With worse coasters. And the flat rides (other than the Top Spin that almost drowns you) were extremely overhyped. dt

Anything on Top 40 radio. And can we please change American Idol to have the winner devoured by rabid poodles at the end of the show? Actually, can we do that to anyone that is on the show? The gene pool really needs to be cleaned... Dave "I really need to be put in charge of more TV shows" Thomas

OK, time to scare you all. Among my favorites: Dream Theater Rush Opeth Ayreon Spock's Beard Enchant Savatage Mercenary Dark Tranquility Crystal Method Riverside Andromeda Sonata Arctica Ozric Tentacles Gordian Knot Into Eternity Pain Of Salvation Psychotic Waltz Dead Soul Tribe Symphony X I'll stop now... dt

I HATE THAT CHARMIN COMMERCIAL!!! It is exceptionally irritating. I have to get on a plane today. Which means going to the airport. Which is never fun... dt

Guinness is the beer of the Gods. I really only like dark beers... dt

^Hey, no need to be jealous, you get to spend three weeks with me in Europe where I'll describe all the death metal bands from each country we're in, and play examples of their music... Dave "OK, perhaps this might not be as much fun as I think it would be for everyone else" Thomas

Maybe so, but this really isn't a contest you want to start... dt

^You know, I'm glad that is near the end of the trip, since you can clearly tell by the picture that we are dooming ourselves riding that thing! I still have no idea what's gong on in that picture! Dave "hope Robb doesn't wear a speedo like the guy in the photo!" Thomas

I like water parks, but prefer the Lazy River/Wave Pool over slides. I know I'm odd in this opinion, but then again, I am odd in general... My favorites are Dorney and the one at Holiday World, though I haven't been to HW since they added all their crazy slides. My last visit was in 2001. Not sure if I'll get to any this year, but I'd like to get to Dorney's since I missed that one last year... dt

^^Yeah, rain would be, um, not good...I need to experience the "silver bullet smooth" Ghostrider! Dave "first time in LA since the infamous meeting between me and Elissa!" Thomas

Mare had it done years ago, and is totally happy with the results. I, on the other hand, am totally terrified of it going horribly, horribly wrong if I attempt it, so will just continue to deal with glasses/contacts. This is likely just me being my usual insane self, but I don't think I could have this done... dt

King Crimson - Elektrik Finally a band some people might have heard of... dt

Close, but Satan's Water would actually be Diet Pepsi. Beverly is what they use in Hell to wash the taste of Diet Pepsi out of the mouths of the damned. Even Satan has his limits... Dave "Diet Coke owns" Thomas

Here's my advice: Kennywood 5/29 - At least half a day, probably more. This is one of my all time favorite parks. Operations are pretty good here, though for some bizarre reason they seem to not like to put the second train on Phantom's Revenge, so you might want to get there at opening and get on this first. Don't forget to get some Potato Patch fries! Even better with gravy! For hotels, you'll want to check on some near the PA turnpike exit. The area around Kennywood is not the best, and there are no hotels close by (you wouldn't want to stay there anyway). Knoebels 5/30 - At least half a day...BEST PARK EVER! Besides the coasters, don't miss all the cool flat rides like the Whip, bumper cars (best ever), the train ride, carousel where you can grab rings, the haunted house, and so much more. Plus KICK ASS food, especially the pizza (best park pizza EVER!). For hotels, you'll want to look at Danville, as Knoebel's is about in the middle of no where. Though it's about 90 minutes from Hershey, so perhaps you want to drive down there before Hersheypark the next day. Hershey Park 5/31 - Full day. This place is huge, and despite whatever Elissa says ( ) this is also a great park. Food is hit and miss here. If you like water rides, and it's warm enough, you'll want to get to those early, as they get enourmous lines. They have a lot of "chain" places in the park (Subway, Taco Bell, that kind of stuff), so if you like that, you're good. There's also the usual assortment of park food available. There are a lot of hotels in the Hershey area, so you should be able find something reasonable. Dorney Park 6/1 - Half day, unless you do the waterpark. Perhaps even less, as if you get there before opening, you can usually knock out a lot of rides pretty quick. The wild mouse has some of the slowest operations ever, so if you want that credit, get it early. The water park here is really good, one of the best I've ever seen, so if it's warm enough, you might want to check that out. The food here is pretty "meh", usual park stuff but not prepared in any sort of excellent way. There are a number of restaurants (Friday's, Carabba's) just down the road, so you might want to wait on food. There are a number of hotels close by, including a couple across the street (you can walk to the park and save the parking fee). SFGAV 6/2 - Probably most of the day. Get a QBot! This will likely be the busiest park you'll visit on this trip. Food is expensive here, so plan accordingly (the chinese place was pretty good the time I ate there). There are NO hotels anywhere near this place for some mysterious reason, so you'll have to stay elsewhere. SFA 6/3 - Probably half a day, maybe more depending on crowds. Good coaster collection, but the operations here are totally random. You could have an amazing day, or a really annoying one. It depends on the motivation of the staff and the annoyance level of the crowd. You're going early in the year and on a weekday, so it should probably be OK. They used to sell fastlane tickets, so if those are available and the park is busy, get those. Be prepared for ride breakdowns, especailly Two Face. If you like water rides, and you happen to notice the Typhoon Sea Coaster operating, jump in line IMMEDIATLY! I've been to the park over 20 times (I used to live not too far from it) and have ridden that thing ONCE. Food here is typical Six Flags food, so, um, you might want to snack and then eat somewhere else! Hotel situation around here is questionable. There are areas not to far from this park you'll want to stay away from (like much of DC). Staying on the outside of the beltway is probably a good idea... PKD 6/4 - Probably a full day. No fastlane/fastpass stuff, unless they've put it back (it wasn't around the last time i was there). It's probably a good idea to get there before opening and get to Hypersonic quick, as the capacity on this ride is not all that great. The water park is pretty good here too, though avoid the ENCLOSED SLIDE OF TERROR AND DEATH. Unless, of course, you like these things...Food is typical park fare, but not horrible. The hotels near the park are not all that great, I'd advise staying at ones a couple of exits away. BGW 6/5 - It really depends how much you like this park. Many people love it, but I am not one of them. To me it's an "OK" park that I can spend half a day at and be satisfied. It all depends on how much you end up liking the place. Everyone raves about the food here, but I have never been impressed. Slightly better than usual park food, in my opinion. On the other hand, in nearby Williamsburg there is an absolute GODLY restaurant called The Trellis that is absolutely amazing and has some of the best food ever! Plus, it's the place where the "Death By Chocolate" cookbook came from, so the desserts are amazing! Worth the visit. For hotels, this area is packed with them, so you shouldn't have too much trouble finding somewhere to stay that fits your budget. PC 6/7 - I have never been here, so I can't help with this one... Have fun on your trip! Any other questions, ask away! dt