<![CDATA[BGWFans Forums - All Forums]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/ Fri, 30 Jul 2010 19:28:24 -0600 MyBB <![CDATA[The Bangles Concert]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=332 Sun, 25 Jul 2010 23:30:25 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=332
The Bangles
July 25th, 2010


Around 3pm, I decided to head out early to avoid the inevitable back-up that always plagues my trips up I-64 to Busch Gardens. My early bird efforts resulted in smooth sailing to the park besides getting stuck behind some slow-pokes once or twice. At 108 degrees, I was amazed anyone was outside at all. On a day like this I would normally choose to stay inside and pray for either rain or a miraculous temperature drop. Instead, I faced the Sahara heat to watch another Busch Gardens Concert Series Event.

This time it was to see the Bangles, an all-female 1980's rock band known for their folk-rock-pop tunes. After a brief 15 minute delay, the three original ladies, Susanna Hoffs along with sisters, Debbi and Vicki Peterson were ready to get out on stage and do their thing. From what I heard, the delay was due to fixing the fans that shot cold air up on stage.

The gals began with the song Hazy Shade of Winter and followed up by some other great tunes like Going Down to Liverpool, Manic Monday, and Eternal Flame. Speaking of, I will going to bed with the lyrics "Close your eyes, give me your hand, darling ....do you feel my heart beating, do you understand....do you feel the same,..... am I only dreaming ........is this burning an eternal flame." Might as well succumb to the power of an 80's love ballad and call it a night.

Anyway, the concert was well paced overall. The band members were witty and very appreciative of the crowd that willingly dried out like beef jerky in the sun to hear them play. I personally give The Bangles kudos for putting on a dynamite concert in those conditions.

Ironically appropriate for the sweltering temperature, Walk Like and Egyptian was the final song of the evening. By the end, I could care less about how hot I was, or even by the ton of water and electrolytes that had depleted from my body. I was simply thrilled to have seen such a classic band and enjoy another wonderful concert experience. Busch Gardens has really done a superb job procuring great bands this year.

One last amazing bit to tell. Since there are not many well known female drummers in the world these days, Debbi Peterson is somewhat of a hero of mine. I decided to hang back after the concert was over and scope out the activities. I will not mention how I stumbled upon such good fortune, but I will tell you that I was lucky enough to land an autographed drumstick that Debbi used in concert. Score one for the amateur drummer! (That would be me).

[attachment=831][attachment=832][attachment=833]]]>
The Bangles
July 25th, 2010


Around 3pm, I decided to head out early to avoid the inevitable back-up that always plagues my trips up I-64 to Busch Gardens. My early bird efforts resulted in smooth sailing to the park besides getting stuck behind some slow-pokes once or twice. At 108 degrees, I was amazed anyone was outside at all. On a day like this I would normally choose to stay inside and pray for either rain or a miraculous temperature drop. Instead, I faced the Sahara heat to watch another Busch Gardens Concert Series Event.

This time it was to see the Bangles, an all-female 1980's rock band known for their folk-rock-pop tunes. After a brief 15 minute delay, the three original ladies, Susanna Hoffs along with sisters, Debbi and Vicki Peterson were ready to get out on stage and do their thing. From what I heard, the delay was due to fixing the fans that shot cold air up on stage.

The gals began with the song Hazy Shade of Winter and followed up by some other great tunes like Going Down to Liverpool, Manic Monday, and Eternal Flame. Speaking of, I will going to bed with the lyrics "Close your eyes, give me your hand, darling ....do you feel my heart beating, do you understand....do you feel the same,..... am I only dreaming ........is this burning an eternal flame." Might as well succumb to the power of an 80's love ballad and call it a night.

Anyway, the concert was well paced overall. The band members were witty and very appreciative of the crowd that willingly dried out like beef jerky in the sun to hear them play. I personally give The Bangles kudos for putting on a dynamite concert in those conditions.

Ironically appropriate for the sweltering temperature, Walk Like and Egyptian was the final song of the evening. By the end, I could care less about how hot I was, or even by the ton of water and electrolytes that had depleted from my body. I was simply thrilled to have seen such a classic band and enjoy another wonderful concert experience. Busch Gardens has really done a superb job procuring great bands this year.

One last amazing bit to tell. Since there are not many well known female drummers in the world these days, Debbi Peterson is somewhat of a hero of mine. I decided to hang back after the concert was over and scope out the activities. I will not mention how I stumbled upon such good fortune, but I will tell you that I was lucky enough to land an autographed drumstick that Debbi used in concert. Score one for the amateur drummer! (That would be me).

[attachment=831][attachment=832][attachment=833]]]> <![CDATA[You Can Buy Uranium Ore on Amazon]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=331 Sun, 25 Jul 2010 18:42:42 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=331

http://www.amazon.com/Uranium-Ore/dp/B000796XXM/

HINT: Read the comments.]]>

http://www.amazon.com/Uranium-Ore/dp/B000796XXM/

HINT: Read the comments.]]> <![CDATA[Weather]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=330 Sat, 24 Jul 2010 07:47:58 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=330 <![CDATA[Going to Holiday World]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=329 Wed, 21 Jul 2010 20:33:20 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=329
Note: People telling me how jealous they are of me are aloud to state their jealousy freely. Big Grin]]>
Note: People telling me how jealous they are of me are aloud to state their jealousy freely. Big Grin]]> <![CDATA[New Slide in 2011]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=328 Wed, 21 Jul 2010 20:28:06 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=328 <![CDATA[Another Arrow Bites the Dust]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=327 Wed, 21 Jul 2010 19:33:46 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=327
It's sad that all of these famous Arrow coasters are being torn down, soon there will be very few left in the world.]]>
It's sad that all of these famous Arrow coasters are being torn down, soon there will be very few left in the world.]]> <![CDATA[Help Save the Blue Streak]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=326 Wed, 21 Jul 2010 14:31:34 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=326 Quote:The Blue Streak is Conneaut Lake Park’s signature attraction, but only one of many treasures the 1892 Park offers. Across from the Blue Streak sits the Tumble Bug, which holds the high distinction of being the OLDEST of only 2 remaining full-size rides of its kind still operating in the world. CLP’s beloved Hotel Conneaut, built in 1903, overlooks PA’s largest natural lake. The lakefront veranda and recently refreshed Crystal Ballroom provide unmatched charm and beauty.

The reopening of the Blue Streak carries value beyond the thrills of its 77-ft. high, 2,900-ft. long structure. It signifies the preservation of a place where friends, fun, and family time are the priority. Inspectors have surveyed the ride and a plan of restoration has been made to include repairs on the trains, tracks, and structure.
American Coaster Enthusiasts recognizes the Blue Streak as an ACE Rollercoaster Landmark; a designation reserved for rides of historic significance.
You can vote once a day though the 31st. The top 10 ideas get $50,000 in funding. As of this post, it is at #19. Remember to vote once a day, everyday! VOTE HERE]]> Quote:The Blue Streak is Conneaut Lake Park’s signature attraction, but only one of many treasures the 1892 Park offers. Across from the Blue Streak sits the Tumble Bug, which holds the high distinction of being the OLDEST of only 2 remaining full-size rides of its kind still operating in the world. CLP’s beloved Hotel Conneaut, built in 1903, overlooks PA’s largest natural lake. The lakefront veranda and recently refreshed Crystal Ballroom provide unmatched charm and beauty.

The reopening of the Blue Streak carries value beyond the thrills of its 77-ft. high, 2,900-ft. long structure. It signifies the preservation of a place where friends, fun, and family time are the priority. Inspectors have surveyed the ride and a plan of restoration has been made to include repairs on the trains, tracks, and structure.
American Coaster Enthusiasts recognizes the Blue Streak as an ACE Rollercoaster Landmark; a designation reserved for rides of historic significance.
You can vote once a day though the 31st. The top 10 ideas get $50,000 in funding. As of this post, it is at #19. Remember to vote once a day, everyday! VOTE HERE]]> <![CDATA[What is the best way to do Illuminights?]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=325 Mon, 19 Jul 2010 11:46:37 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=325 <![CDATA[Pastries from France]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=324 Mon, 19 Jul 2010 05:31:07 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=324
I'm trying to figure out if BG still makes the chocolate mousse they used to sell there. They had regular and mint, it was round, and had a chocolate shell. I get different stories when I ask around, the most common being that they do make it, but only during slower days and it's only sold at the Festhaus Kaffee. Has anyone seen it this season?]]>
I'm trying to figure out if BG still makes the chocolate mousse they used to sell there. They had regular and mint, it was round, and had a chocolate shell. I get different stories when I ask around, the most common being that they do make it, but only during slower days and it's only sold at the Festhaus Kaffee. Has anyone seen it this season?]]> <![CDATA[The Season Pass Is Coming to BGW]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=323 Sun, 18 Jul 2010 19:06:41 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=323 The Season Pass Podcast will be broadcasting live at Busch Gardens on August 21. More info can be found on the Facebook Event page here.]]> The Season Pass Podcast will be broadcasting live at Busch Gardens on August 21. More info can be found on the Facebook Event page here.]]> <![CDATA[Best Time to Go to HOS?]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=322 Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:36:38 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=322
I was thinking maybe the weekend of the 9 and 10 since Columbus day is the 11th. But I'm thinking the place will be super crowded then.

Can anyone give me some advice of when to go when it won't be so crowded?]]>
I was thinking maybe the weekend of the 9 and 10 since Columbus day is the 11th. But I'm thinking the place will be super crowded then.

Can anyone give me some advice of when to go when it won't be so crowded?]]> <![CDATA[Kingsmill sold]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=321 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 14:51:13 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=321 http://www.dailypress.com/news/williamsb...1852.story]]> http://www.dailypress.com/news/williamsb...1852.story]]> <![CDATA[B52's Concert]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=320 Sun, 11 Jul 2010 21:42:01 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=320
Rock'n with the B-52's

A Fantastic Start To Busch Gardens Summer Concert Series


Today was a highly anticipated concert for me. Growing up in the 80's, it was hard to miss the unique sound of a band called the B-52's. Technically, the band was labeled "New Wave" in the 80's. Yet if you asked me, I would say they have more of a retro-60's beach-bop sound than New Wave. But who am I to argue people who categorize music for a living?

The original singers Fred Schneider III, Cynthia Wilson, Catherine Pierson, and guitarist Keith Strickland were all were in great form tonight. Playing newer tracks such as their 2008 single Funplex mixed in with some classics like Loveshack and Roam; the band had the crowd up and on their feet. I was trying hard not to get carried away with their fun party beats and failed miserably. I played air drums and danced around like a loon for most of the concert.

The gals in the band dressed in their standard beach-mini dresses and vintage style hair. Good ol' Freddie sported a very interesting yellow pleather get-up. I was amazed that Fred Schneider could actually handle those pants in the hot-humid Virginia weather; which by the way, reached about 96 degrees in the Festhaus Park; aka "Field of Steams". But ~ I suppose since the band originates from Athens, GA, this sauna is nothing new to them. All in all, I would say about 600 fans were really enjoying the music despite simmering like "Rock Lobsters" in a pot.

Speaking of lobsters, the entire concert was just over an hour and the crowd called the band back out for an encore. I had purchased a little plush "lobster", which came in handy when I waved it to the beat on their final encore song Rock Lobster; um...surprisingly enough.

The final bow concluded and the crowds quietly dispersed. As the sun started to set, the weather cooled. With pleasant breezes rolling in, everyone left with a great day of music and IllumiNights Celebrations.

[attachment=820][attachment=821][attachment=822]]]>
Rock'n with the B-52's

A Fantastic Start To Busch Gardens Summer Concert Series


Today was a highly anticipated concert for me. Growing up in the 80's, it was hard to miss the unique sound of a band called the B-52's. Technically, the band was labeled "New Wave" in the 80's. Yet if you asked me, I would say they have more of a retro-60's beach-bop sound than New Wave. But who am I to argue people who categorize music for a living?

The original singers Fred Schneider III, Cynthia Wilson, Catherine Pierson, and guitarist Keith Strickland were all were in great form tonight. Playing newer tracks such as their 2008 single Funplex mixed in with some classics like Loveshack and Roam; the band had the crowd up and on their feet. I was trying hard not to get carried away with their fun party beats and failed miserably. I played air drums and danced around like a loon for most of the concert.

The gals in the band dressed in their standard beach-mini dresses and vintage style hair. Good ol' Freddie sported a very interesting yellow pleather get-up. I was amazed that Fred Schneider could actually handle those pants in the hot-humid Virginia weather; which by the way, reached about 96 degrees in the Festhaus Park; aka "Field of Steams". But ~ I suppose since the band originates from Athens, GA, this sauna is nothing new to them. All in all, I would say about 600 fans were really enjoying the music despite simmering like "Rock Lobsters" in a pot.

Speaking of lobsters, the entire concert was just over an hour and the crowd called the band back out for an encore. I had purchased a little plush "lobster", which came in handy when I waved it to the beat on their final encore song Rock Lobster; um...surprisingly enough.

The final bow concluded and the crowds quietly dispersed. As the sun started to set, the weather cooled. With pleasant breezes rolling in, everyone left with a great day of music and IllumiNights Celebrations.

[attachment=820][attachment=821][attachment=822]]]> <![CDATA[Howl-O-Scream 2010: Best Guesses and Wishlist]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=319 Sun, 11 Jul 2010 13:50:26 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=319
Map #1: My Wishlist/2009 Mazes
[Image: 29end3r.png]

Here we see all of the attractions of last year outlined in purple.

What Should Return:
Festhaus Park Mazes: These two mazes have been the major focal points of Howl-O-Scream. This area has seen many attractions, Tormented Tales, Sleepless Hollow Manner, Hunted, Cursed, just to say a few. Followed by a Scare-Zone, these two mazes are important to the success of Howl-O-Scream.

Catacombs: Catacombs debuted last year, by many Howl-O-Scream fans, and members of this website it was dubbed "the best Howl-O-Scream attraction of the year." With its only fault being its length (which is fixable), this attraction should be a regular maze for Howl-O-Scream.

Maze behind Festa Italia: The maze behind Festa Italia has only been in existence for about two years. It served as a replacement for the area where the Forest of Fun was built. Last year it housed Cursed. While Cursed suffered from a bad theme, and possibly bad ScareActors, the area that it was placed in is a valuable asset. Strayed away from sound and light pollution, this area is isolated enough to become its own world. With lots of room to expand, this area is a definite area that Busch Garden's Howl-O-Scream Planners should take into consideration of expansion.

Revenge/The Curse of Pompeii: Revenge of Pompeii has been an attraction at Howl-O-Scream for as long as I can remember. It beholds a gem which no other attraction at Howl-O-Scream has, it has complete theming all around it. This attraction's theme fits perfectly into its area, and that is a valuable thing to possess. The only downside of this attraction is that it has been the same for the past few years. With a change of layout, this maze can be golden again.

What Should Not Return:

Cavern of Darkness: Though Cavern of Darkness held some of the same qualities of its theming as Revenge of Pompeii, this attraction may have been the biggest disappointments of Howl-O-Scream 2009. The lighting was just not right, and it seemed like this attraction was built with very little effort using the left overs from other attractions. I doubt this attraction would return anyway since Europe in the Air opened this year.

Map #2: Best Guess Mazes 2010
[Image: 3132fkx.png]

With very little information, I can only make a guess off of the little information we've got so far, and inferences based off last year.

What May Be Returning:
Festhaus Park Mazes: There is currently no reason for it not to return.
Roman Rapids Maze: This ride was previously used for Masquerage and Last Laugh Industries. Roman Rapids was open last year but didn't get much traffic, so I'd suspect they would close it again this year and use it for a maze.
Maze Behind Festa Italia: This attraction is still set-up, which would leave me to believe that it will be used this year.
Revenge/Curse of Pompeii: It's been a regular, I see no reason for it not to return.
Catacombs: Was a success last year, I'd be surprised if we didn't see a maze in this area this year.

Most Importantly
What are your thoughts?
What mazes would you like in what area?
What mazes do you think we will have this year?]]>
Map #1: My Wishlist/2009 Mazes
[Image: 29end3r.png]

Here we see all of the attractions of last year outlined in purple.

What Should Return:
Festhaus Park Mazes: These two mazes have been the major focal points of Howl-O-Scream. This area has seen many attractions, Tormented Tales, Sleepless Hollow Manner, Hunted, Cursed, just to say a few. Followed by a Scare-Zone, these two mazes are important to the success of Howl-O-Scream.

Catacombs: Catacombs debuted last year, by many Howl-O-Scream fans, and members of this website it was dubbed "the best Howl-O-Scream attraction of the year." With its only fault being its length (which is fixable), this attraction should be a regular maze for Howl-O-Scream.

Maze behind Festa Italia: The maze behind Festa Italia has only been in existence for about two years. It served as a replacement for the area where the Forest of Fun was built. Last year it housed Cursed. While Cursed suffered from a bad theme, and possibly bad ScareActors, the area that it was placed in is a valuable asset. Strayed away from sound and light pollution, this area is isolated enough to become its own world. With lots of room to expand, this area is a definite area that Busch Garden's Howl-O-Scream Planners should take into consideration of expansion.

Revenge/The Curse of Pompeii: Revenge of Pompeii has been an attraction at Howl-O-Scream for as long as I can remember. It beholds a gem which no other attraction at Howl-O-Scream has, it has complete theming all around it. This attraction's theme fits perfectly into its area, and that is a valuable thing to possess. The only downside of this attraction is that it has been the same for the past few years. With a change of layout, this maze can be golden again.

What Should Not Return:

Cavern of Darkness: Though Cavern of Darkness held some of the same qualities of its theming as Revenge of Pompeii, this attraction may have been the biggest disappointments of Howl-O-Scream 2009. The lighting was just not right, and it seemed like this attraction was built with very little effort using the left overs from other attractions. I doubt this attraction would return anyway since Europe in the Air opened this year.

Map #2: Best Guess Mazes 2010
[Image: 3132fkx.png]

With very little information, I can only make a guess off of the little information we've got so far, and inferences based off last year.

What May Be Returning:
Festhaus Park Mazes: There is currently no reason for it not to return.
Roman Rapids Maze: This ride was previously used for Masquerage and Last Laugh Industries. Roman Rapids was open last year but didn't get much traffic, so I'd suspect they would close it again this year and use it for a maze.
Maze Behind Festa Italia: This attraction is still set-up, which would leave me to believe that it will be used this year.
Revenge/Curse of Pompeii: It's been a regular, I see no reason for it not to return.
Catacombs: Was a success last year, I'd be surprised if we didn't see a maze in this area this year.

Most Importantly
What are your thoughts?
What mazes would you like in what area?
What mazes do you think we will have this year?]]> <![CDATA[Social Media Night]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=318 Fri, 09 Jul 2010 21:22:35 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=318
We'll be meeting the rest of the invitees at the Globe Theater at 4:00. From there, we are supposed to be taken on a behind the scenes tour of Illuminights and attending a VIP party.

Needless to say, we are very excited to be attending Big Grin Follow me on Twitter @aaroncorasdad. I'll be tweeting throughout the night.]]>
We'll be meeting the rest of the invitees at the Globe Theater at 4:00. From there, we are supposed to be taken on a behind the scenes tour of Illuminights and attending a VIP party.

Needless to say, we are very excited to be attending Big Grin Follow me on Twitter @aaroncorasdad. I'll be tweeting throughout the night.]]> <![CDATA[Valley Park]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=316 Tue, 06 Jul 2010 17:08:44 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=316
Quote:Westerly Daily - 5/9/76

Regional entertainment group SEVA Holdings, Inc. has announced the acquisition of 475 acres of land northeast of Ashaway. The company has not disclosed any plans for the parcel and declined to comment on the purchase, but there have been rumors about the company opening an amusement park, this land may be the future site of such a project. The land could also be used in a bid to attract television and movie production to the area which SEVA Holdings has also been rumored to be interested in.

As can be seen from the following aerial photos, the land is expansive and undeveloped.

[attachment=813] [attachment=814] [attachment=815]

We will keep you up to date on any future developments.
]]>
Quote:Westerly Daily - 5/9/76

Regional entertainment group SEVA Holdings, Inc. has announced the acquisition of 475 acres of land northeast of Ashaway. The company has not disclosed any plans for the parcel and declined to comment on the purchase, but there have been rumors about the company opening an amusement park, this land may be the future site of such a project. The land could also be used in a bid to attract television and movie production to the area which SEVA Holdings has also been rumored to be interested in.

As can be seen from the following aerial photos, the land is expansive and undeveloped.

[attachment=813] [attachment=814] [attachment=815]

We will keep you up to date on any future developments.
]]> <![CDATA[IllumiNights]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=315 Sun, 04 Jul 2010 21:23:15 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=315 IllumiNights at Busch Gardens Williamsburg ~ Don't Miss It!

By Nora Marien
July 4th, 2010
[attachment=811]

Ah IllumiNights; at last it has arrived. For most of the late spring, Busch Gardens Williamsburg teased us with a bombardment of TV commercials, miscellaneous ads and signs around the park, fliers, Facebook posts, and blog updates about a mysterious, never before seen event. The promise of fireworks every night along with a European cultural themed extravaganza from June 28th through August 22nd was tantalizing for an ultimate park guru like myself.

Needless to say, June 28th could not get here fast enough!!

Busch Gardens has done an excellent job promoting IllumiNights and for those of you who have yet to go, the event actually lives up to all the proceeding hype. Thank goodness. I would have been completely bummed had the day gone sour; but once more, Busch Gardens Williamsburg delivered!

IllumiNights is a celebration that spans the entire park with unique shows featured around the various countries. The magic starts at 5pm and continues on until 9:30pm when a Fireworks Display that is simultaneously set to an amazing original soundtrack, concludes the festivities. Since all the individual performances repeat themselves during the evening, one can plan on seeing all the performances in the park at a leisurely pace.

The event mainly focuses on cultural references. There is a Parisian themed parade through New France; complete with poodles, cancan dancers, entertainers, and much to my joyous surprise, a resurrected La Mans car! Yes, the Le Mans car is alive and well! In Germany, the Festhaus has been transformed into the world's largest living Cuckoo Clock; where every hour starting at 5pm, the clock comes alive and is guaranteed to make you smile through the whole performance. Italy has acrobats scattered amidst the area of Da Vinci Gardens where they perform stunts of amazing skill. Ireland has a cute little show that features 20 foot puppets, special effects, and a charming story of a Leprechaun and a Fairy Princess.

[attachment=810][attachment=807][attachment=806][attachment=805][attachment=808][attachment=809]

Keep in mind that Busch Gardens cannot compete on the scale of Disney's Magic Kingdom obviously; but for a relaxing fun filled family entertainment excursion, I was greatly impressed. Much like Christmas Town, it wasn't about rides; it is about wholesome entertainment that will build wonderful memories. The park looks spectacular in all the illuminated splendor as the sun sets and the park changes atmosphere. The Griffon Coaster stands tall with light fantastic shining magically upon it in the evening hours while various other locations also have a new look for the festivities.

If all this wasn't enough, Busch Gardens free concert series begins this weekend (July 10th and 11th) starting with one of my favorite bands from the 80's, the B52's. Each weekend will showcase artists such as Creedence Clearwater Revisited, The Bangles, The Fixx, David Cook, Grand Funk Railroad, and Emily Osment. Did I mention the concerts were free??

And if you do not have a season pass, never fear; Busch Gardens has provided numerous discounts and reduce priced options for everyone. So regardless if you are a season pass holder or not; you have to put IllumiNights on your to do list. It is my hope that the event builds momentum and is an annual tradition with new, exciting twists added each year!

[attachment=812]
]]> IllumiNights at Busch Gardens Williamsburg ~ Don't Miss It!

By Nora Marien
July 4th, 2010
[attachment=811]

Ah IllumiNights; at last it has arrived. For most of the late spring, Busch Gardens Williamsburg teased us with a bombardment of TV commercials, miscellaneous ads and signs around the park, fliers, Facebook posts, and blog updates about a mysterious, never before seen event. The promise of fireworks every night along with a European cultural themed extravaganza from June 28th through August 22nd was tantalizing for an ultimate park guru like myself.

Needless to say, June 28th could not get here fast enough!!

Busch Gardens has done an excellent job promoting IllumiNights and for those of you who have yet to go, the event actually lives up to all the proceeding hype. Thank goodness. I would have been completely bummed had the day gone sour; but once more, Busch Gardens Williamsburg delivered!

IllumiNights is a celebration that spans the entire park with unique shows featured around the various countries. The magic starts at 5pm and continues on until 9:30pm when a Fireworks Display that is simultaneously set to an amazing original soundtrack, concludes the festivities. Since all the individual performances repeat themselves during the evening, one can plan on seeing all the performances in the park at a leisurely pace.

The event mainly focuses on cultural references. There is a Parisian themed parade through New France; complete with poodles, cancan dancers, entertainers, and much to my joyous surprise, a resurrected La Mans car! Yes, the Le Mans car is alive and well! In Germany, the Festhaus has been transformed into the world's largest living Cuckoo Clock; where every hour starting at 5pm, the clock comes alive and is guaranteed to make you smile through the whole performance. Italy has acrobats scattered amidst the area of Da Vinci Gardens where they perform stunts of amazing skill. Ireland has a cute little show that features 20 foot puppets, special effects, and a charming story of a Leprechaun and a Fairy Princess.

[attachment=810][attachment=807][attachment=806][attachment=805][attachment=808][attachment=809]

Keep in mind that Busch Gardens cannot compete on the scale of Disney's Magic Kingdom obviously; but for a relaxing fun filled family entertainment excursion, I was greatly impressed. Much like Christmas Town, it wasn't about rides; it is about wholesome entertainment that will build wonderful memories. The park looks spectacular in all the illuminated splendor as the sun sets and the park changes atmosphere. The Griffon Coaster stands tall with light fantastic shining magically upon it in the evening hours while various other locations also have a new look for the festivities.

If all this wasn't enough, Busch Gardens free concert series begins this weekend (July 10th and 11th) starting with one of my favorite bands from the 80's, the B52's. Each weekend will showcase artists such as Creedence Clearwater Revisited, The Bangles, The Fixx, David Cook, Grand Funk Railroad, and Emily Osment. Did I mention the concerts were free??

And if you do not have a season pass, never fear; Busch Gardens has provided numerous discounts and reduce priced options for everyone. So regardless if you are a season pass holder or not; you have to put IllumiNights on your to do list. It is my hope that the event builds momentum and is an annual tradition with new, exciting twists added each year!

[attachment=812]
]]> <![CDATA[Semi OT: RCT2 on OS X using CrossOver]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=314 Sun, 04 Jul 2010 14:47:03 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=314
Anyway, I've got it installed using CrossOver and my machine says it's running, but I don't have audio or visual evidence to back that up.

I'm just wondering if anyone here is using this combo. Maybe I should just suck it up and learn to live with RCT3. I like seeing the RCT3 stuff here, but I hate using it myself. The interface is clunky to me and the people look creepy. I just prefer the simple cartoony RCT2.]]>
Anyway, I've got it installed using CrossOver and my machine says it's running, but I don't have audio or visual evidence to back that up.

I'm just wondering if anyone here is using this combo. Maybe I should just suck it up and learn to live with RCT3. I like seeing the RCT3 stuff here, but I hate using it myself. The interface is clunky to me and the people look creepy. I just prefer the simple cartoony RCT2.]]> <![CDATA[Happy 4th Of July]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=313 Sun, 04 Jul 2010 07:56:51 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=313 ]]> ]]> <![CDATA[Awesome BGW Pictures Posted to Amusement Insider]]> http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=312 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 20:13:20 -0600 http://bgwfans.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=312
http://www.amusementinsider.com/press/in...=23&page=1]]>
http://www.amusementinsider.com/press/in...=23&page=1]]>