Shooting At Six Flags Over Georgia This Past Weekend – Austin’s Daily Commentary
Austin talks about the shooting at Six Flags over the weekend. Transcript: Austin Rhodes: Officials in Atlanta’s Six Flags Over Georgia want all of us to know that what happened over…
LOS ANGELES, – MARCH 14: Six Flags Magic Mountain is closed as the coronavirus continues to spread across the United States on March 14, 2020 in Valencia, California. The World…
Rich Fury/Getty Images
Austin talks about the shooting at Six Flags over the weekend.
Transcript:
Austin Rhodes: Officials in Atlanta's Six Flags Over Georgia want all of us to know that what happened over the weekend, their opening day, involving a young person being shot by the authorities, was a freak situation that actually did not occur on park property. Actually, it was connected to a service road that's near one of their main parking lots, and that's reassuring to say the least.
The 15 year old was in critical condition, apparently shot after an exchange of gunfire with officials, police officials. The problem, though, is that the conflict did in fact begin on the property at Six Flags. One I'm told that hundreds and I do mean hundreds with an s of marauding teenagers were roaming the park, starting fights with each other, and every now and then targeting completely unattached and innocent people.
Now, folks, I got to tell you, I've. I've enjoyed six flags since I was a little bitty kid. Love it. It is one of the great safe alternatives to some of the, well, let's just say, venues that have been taken over by thugs over the course of the last several years. But both Six Flags and even Disney World have unfortunately had incidents that have gone viral with teenagers, usually teenagers, sometimes adults, fighting with each other.
Six Flags needs to get a handle on this quickly. They are scrupulous when it comes to checking for firearms and other weapons at their entrances. Again, the shooting this weekend did not happen on the property at Six Flags, but adjacent to it. But again, marauding groups of teenagers roaming the park starting fights. Not a good look for Six Flags. They better get on this issue quick. Here's to hoping we can save one of George's great family destinations. And that's the comment, I'm Austin Rhodes, AM 580/95.1 FM News Talk WGAC.
For more from The Austin Rhodes Show, click here.
10 Best Amusement Parks in America
America doesn't lack for having the best amusement parks. Whether you're a daredevil and want to ride the tallest, scariest roller coasters in the world or prefer just eating park food, a day at the park can be a super fun experience.
One great thing about theme parks is that you can usually find one within driving distance. This makes amusement parks a reasonable choice for a family vacation or weekend giveaway, especially if money is an issue. Amusement parks are also great for capturing memories for kids. When I was a child, my family took me to several parks in Michigan, California, Ohio and Florida, so I have great memories from those trips.
The best theme parks also have convenient lodging nearby, making the trip truly seamless. That's not to mention the awesome water parks that are often attached to today's theme parks. Also, even though theme parks are meant for kids, it's obvious that adults can have just as much fun at them, too.
Read on for our list of the 10 best amusement parks in America, from Cedar Point to Hersheypark. All of these are famous for their attractions, food and more. What's your favorite? Reach out to us on social media and let us know.
10. Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Dollywood is a favorite that's located in the Great Smokey Mountain area. Of course, it's named after the one and only Dolly Parton. If you're a country music fan, this is a must-see stop. Even if you aren't a huge country music listener, it's a great, traditional amusement park.
9. Kings Island, Mason, Ohio
Kings Island Theme Park is a little bit off the radar, but it's a great park. It's known for not only its amusement park but also its fantastic water park. Kings Island features a range of coasters, Planet Snoopy for the kids and more.
8. Legoland, Carlsbad, California
Legoland is simply legendary. Whoever had the idea to make an entire amusement park dedicated to Legos is a genius. The amusement park offers fun rides, live entertainment and more. You'll find a Legoland Water Park, too.
7. Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, Virginia
Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia, is one of those parks that you just hear about a lot. I feel like I've been hearing about it since I was a little kid, but I've never been there. Busch Gardens is known for being extremely beautiful and scenic, which is rare for an amusement park.
6. Knott's Berry Farm, Buena Park, California
Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, California, is another spot that I've had the pleasure of visiting. When I was a kid, my family took me to California to see my aunt, and we went to not only Disneyland but also Knott's Berry Farm. The amusement park has more than 165 rides, attractions and more. They also have fun holiday and Halloween events.
5. Six Flags Magic Mountain, Valencia, California (and in many other states)
Six Flags Magic Mountain is another huge name when it comes to parks. The spot, located in Valencia, California, is known for its amazing coasters. What's cool is that the park offers a mix of scary-type coasters for the big kids (and adults) and tame coasters for the kids (and wimpy adults, like me). Other Six Flags parks also belong here, too, as the chain has lots of locations across America.
4: Disney California Adventure Park, Anaheim, California
If you want that Disney experience but live on the West Coast, then you're much closer to Disney California Adventure Park, aka "Disneyland," than you are to Disney World. I've actually been to both parks, since my aunt lives near Disneyland, and I went as a kid. The park is super fun for those of any age, and it really gives you that Disney movie experience, but in a park. The park has been updated over the years, but it's more classic than Disney World.
3. Hersheypark, Hershey, Pennsylvania
If you're in the Pennsylvania area, then you absolutely have to go to Hersheypark. The park, which is owned by Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, helps to keep Milton S. Hershey's legacy alive. Not only do you get chocolate (yum!), but Hersheypark also offers roller coasters, water rides and more fun.
2. Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom, Orlando, Florida
There is something simply classic about Walt Disney World. It should be every kid's right of passage to go here. I'm fortunate that my parents took me to Disney World twice when I was little. I loved meeting my favorite princesses, but there is plenty to do for adults at the park, too.
1. Cedar Point, Sandusky, Ohio
Cedar Point is legendary in the Midwest. The park is considered the "Roller Coaster Capital of the World," since it has so many fantastic coasters to ride. If you're looking for major thrills, plus stuff to do for the family, Cedar Point is a great spot. Plus, it's not as pricey as some of the major parks.
