Park Photos Roundup

How long can you hold your breath? Magical entertainer Aaron Radatz hopes he can hold his long enough to escape from a wooden packing crate at the bottom of Wild Adventures’ lake July 4 and 5, at 7:30 p.m. FREEDOM: An Underwater Escape has never been attempted in the region, and the death defying stunt is part of Wild Adventures’ All American Weekend, which also includes explosive nightly fireworks choreographed to a dynamic and patriotic soundtrack.

On July 4 and 5 at Wild Adventures, Aaron Radatz will recreate a death-defying escape made famous by one his mentors, Harry Houdini.

Radatz will be handcuffed and chained by members of the audience and sealed inside a wooden crate, before he is lowered into the Wild Adventures’ lake. To up the ante, several small holes will be drilled over the surface of the crate to let the water drain in; making the escape even more dangerous. Aaron will have only three minutes to pick his way out of the handcuffs and chains and break his way out of the box against the pressure of the water. An ambulance, fire truck, and scuba diving team will be on hand to take action if the event does not go as planned.

All American Weekend will also include an explosive fireworks show both Saturday and Sunday night, beginning at dusk. Splash Island Water Park, thrill rides, daily shows, attractions and animals will add to this Independence Day weekend and provide a quality family friendly experience for all ages.

Imagine turning 65 and getting a second chance in life. Imagine having a new career with a job that was never a possibility. That’s what happened to Joan Dragolic and Janet Goetter, both in their late 60’s. Ask them and they beam about their seasonal jobs at Sesame Place, the nation’s only theme park based entirely on Sesame Street located in Langhorne, PA. It’s clear these seniors just want to have fun, and since retiring from their desk jobs, they are doing just that!

For both of these women, Sesame Place has opened their lives to opportunities they never imagined. Joan Dragolic, 67, lives with her husband Dan in Yardley, PA. She has two children, two stepchildren, two grandsons and two granddaughters who love to come and see Nanny at work. Her granddaughter, Sofia, 4, brags, “My Nanny works with Elmo!” When not at Sesame Place, she has a part time job with Seniors Helping Seniors and volunteers at St. Mary Hospital and her local church. Janet Goetter has been married to John for 49 years, and they live in Bristol Township. They have three children and four grandchildren, with one more “on the way.” She is still busy throughout the school year as a crossing guard.

New Kids on the Block band member Donnie Wahlberg (front seat, right) takes a ride on the new Diamondback roller coaster at Kings Island on Saturday. The Dorchester, Massachusetts native’s background also includes feature films and television and is notably recognized in his roles in the Saw films.