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TM & ©2014 , Inc. 2014 Park Preview: Pages 6-9 May 2014 | Vol. 18 • Issue 2 www.amusementtoday.com opens FireChaser Express, family coaster STORY: Scott Rutherford laborated on , for FireChaser Express. It is [email protected] the Herschend creative team perfect for what we wanted to PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. knew the German ride manu- accomplish. It is a family ride — During the past 29 years, facturer could help them ac- that is exciting; helps tell our Dollywood has steadily complish their goal. Dolly- story of volunteer firemen but evolved into a dining and wood’s Pete Owens explains has some surprises!” entertainment destination why Gerstlauer was selected Decked out in a custom- with sumptuous food options to provide the ride system designed firefighter outfit, and award-winning live for what would become Fire- officially opened shows. But it’s also rapidly Chaser Express. “This is the the ride to media and invited becoming a true thrill ride second project we have done guests on March 20, 2014. park. Home to world-class with Gerstlauer in the last “My new FireChaser Express attractions such as the top- seven years. They understand has folks goin’ in all different rated Thunderhead wooden that we are doing more than directions, and that’s going to (2004), Mystery just creating a ride — we want be a lot of fun, but it teaches Mine (2007) steel coaster/dark to tell a story and an ex- an important lesson, too,” said ride and the wing perience for families to enjoy,” Parton. “FireChaser Express Dollywood’s new coaster (2012), Dollywood Owens told AT. “We have celebrates our heroes — fire- FireChaser Express family offers an evolving arsenal of been very pleased with Mys- fighters — and it reminds the roller coaster features top- high-profile rides. tery Mine, the first Gerstlauer rest of us that we can all be notch theming around the But park officials wisely Eurofighter built in the U.S. It heroes if we’ll just step up and ride’s station and queue recognized that there was fit the story we were trying to help others, whether it’s in a area. During the ride’s still a niche to be filled. They tell and created the experience small way or a big way.” debut, Dolly cheers on knew they needed a ride that we wanted. The same is true 4See DOLLYWOOD, page 4 firefighters as their water could provide excitement for bucket brigade prepares to both families with children as launch the first onto well as more seasoned visitors the course. looking for thrills. That may COURTESY DOLLYWOOD seem like a difficult thing to do, but Dollywood managed to pull it off with the finesse one has come to expect from the Smoky Mountain themer and its parent company Her- schend Family Entertain- ment. To accomplish the task of creating an exciting ride with across-the-board appeal, including a relatively mod- est rider height requirement of just 39 inches, Dollywood once again turned to Gerst- As this photo illustrates, FireChaser Express is able to accom- lauer. The result is FireChaser modate a wide range of riders and physical dimensions. The Express, a dual-launched fam- train’s individual ratcheting lapbars accommodate full-size ily roller coaster like no other. adults on down to small children who’ve reached the 39-inch Having successfully col- height requirement. AT/SCOTT RUTHERFORD

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EDITORIAL: Gary Slade, [email protected] CARTOON: Bubba Flint Tidbits Amusement Today’s new Digital Edition is here, and available for all to test on their touch screen mobile devices. AT has contracted with Col- orado-based Olive Software to bring this exciting new service to our sub- Slade scribers. It is the same format as found with many of our nation’s daily newspapers, includ- ing Denver Post, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, The Detroit News and USA Today to name just a few. The digital service is free through the distribu- tion of the August issue, so check it out at amuse- menttoday.com [top right corner on home page]. Beginning with the Sept. issue, only PAID print subscribers will be able to access the digital edi- tion, which will post a minimum of one full week earlier than the mailed print issues. So check it out, be the first to be in the know with the latest industry news and let us know what you think! EDITORIAL: Andrew Mellor, [email protected] • Congratulations to two industry park veterans Early season optimism on their recent park deals. Dan Koch now heads I’m writing this column at record year in Europe for new attractions of the beginning of April, that varying kinds, proof of a buoyant industry and up ’s Splash Adventure and Jack Falfas time of the year when parks increased confidence on the part of operators. takes over the former Bluff Falls , around Europe and the US are may be the country on everyone’s lips at rebranded in 2014 into Hydro Adventures. We just starting to open up for the the moment as the most active in this business, new season. but there’s plenty going on elsewhere too! look for great things to happen at each property And what a great time And many of these projects aren’t simply both this summer and in the years to come! Mellor it always is, especially if the off the shelf installations. In numerous cases • weather is favorable and adds parks are customizing or theming rides in SeaWorld kicked off its big 50th some warm, bright days to the early part of the special and unique ways to differentiate them- season. It makes a massive difference and puts selves from others and create something really celebration on March 21 with the launch of its potential visitors in the right frame of mind for special, while new themed areas are also being new Explorer’s Reef, a massive rebuild of its front a day out at their favorite park, as well as help- introduced which are home to all kinds of ride gate to now include a series of interactive touch ing to increase that feeling of optimism for a based and other entertainment. successful few months ahead on the part of Intellectual properties also continue to be pools that greet guests as soon as they enter owners and operators. utilized and whether it’s an in-house type IP or the park. Based on the positive reaction AT saw With the global industry in general enjoy- one renowned throughout the world, they will during the unveiling, it’s obvious SeaWorld has ing a very strong and successful period of combine with new attractions of varying types landed another guest favorite. See pages 34-36 late, it’s not surprising that there are so many to provide important marketing and promo- new projects coming on stream this year, from tional opportunities for their host venues and for full coverage. completely new parks to numerous new rides an added draw for visitors. Congratulations to SeaWorld Entertainment and other attractions. I’ve previously heard of So to all those operators who have recently Inc. on selling 17,250,000 shares of common many of these from manufacturers at various re-opened their parks for 2014, I wish you a trade shows around the world and it’s good great season and hope that the momentum of stock at $30 per share during its second public to see them now a reality and ready to enter- success we have witnessed in the past couple offering, which ended April 9. tain! Indeed, I understand it is something of a of years continues. —Gary Slade AMUSEMENT TODAY STAFF Gary Slade, Founder Dean Lamanna Sammy Piccola Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Editorial Accounting / Circulation [email protected] [email protected] (817) 460-7220 [email protected] Deliveries Member of: Stacey Childress / Childress Media Pam Sherborne 2012 E. Randol Mill Rd., Suite 203 IAAPA, AIMS International, PAPA, Web & Graphic Design Editorial Sue Nichols Arlington, Texas 76011 NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, WWA, TTIA, [email protected] [email protected] Advertising NAARSO and IISF (615) 662-0252 Subscription rates are: 1 year (14 issues) $75 in the USA; $100 elsewhere; 2 years (28 issues) $140/$180; John Robinson / W.H.R. Inc. Scott Rutherford [email protected] 3 years (42 issues) $200/$250. Send check or money order (U.S. funds only, drawn on a U.S. bank) to Amusement Today, P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005-5427. Your cancelled check is your receipt. Daily E-mail Newsletter Editorial Please allow up to six weeks for your subscription request to be processed and the first issue mailed. [email protected] [email protected] Bubba Flint Cartoonist Amusement Today is an independent newspaper, published monthly by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. Tim Baldwin Jeffrey L. Seifert [email protected] Box 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. Presort Standard Postage (Permit No. 2069) pre-paid at Fort Worth, Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper and its related websites are copyrighted and trademarked Editorial Editorial / Special Projects by Amusement Today 2013, with all rights reserved. [email protected] [email protected] POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Amusement Today, P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas Contributors: Andrew Mellor, Richard Munch, Janice Witherow 76005-5427. May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3 THIS MONTH IN HISTORY COMPILED: Presented by MINUTE Richard Munch 2 DRILL COMPILED: Janice Witherow •1906: Luna Park, the new Kelly Bernish, Global SHE Solutions, LLC Frederick Ingersoll Kelly Bernish has The hobby I have that would probably on the banks of Four Mile Run, successfully led teams surprise most people is … Virginia, just south of Washington at the Disney, SeaWorld Turtle watching! I volunteer to survey turtle D.C., opened on May 28. Reached by streetcar, the park and Anheuser-Busch nests at the crack of dawn during turtle www.RollerCoasterMuseum.org Companies and is currently season. was fashioned after several of Ingersoll’s numerous other Luna enjoying the launch of her sites across the country. With scheduled entertainment and all the Favorite national newscaster own company, Global SHE new attractions running at full capacity, the new park would include Solutions, LLC. Based in Bernish Hannah Storm. I really admired her as a all the delights of the time, including a Shoot the Chutes, a Scenic the Orlando area, Kelly’s female sportscaster years ago during the Railway, a ballroom, a pool and restaurants. It would close in 1915 focus is on offering full-service consulting Olympics. And she is still doing a great and today is the site of a sewage treatment plant. in the disciplines of safety, health, job. environment (SHE) and risk management. •1919: Woodside Park, in Fairmount Park in Philadelphia, Penn- Kelly serves on numerous industry In one word, what’s your take on junk mail? sylvania, opened on May 3 with two new gravity thrill rides. In an committees and boards and is a passionate Recycle! unusual move, park management contracted the L.A. Thompson community volunteer. She has received Scenic Railway Company to build two of their popular railways several honors and awards for her work My next vacation will be to … for the 1919 season. Considered unique, part of the length of both related to safety. Kelly’s warm personality We are going on an Alaskan Cruise this rides used the same structure with moving figures and other novel projects an energy that has undeniably summer … can’t wait! features for the interior scenes. It was noted that the park was prac- contributed to her professional growth. tically rebuilt from the ground up to emphasize a new start, after a All-time best ballgame food devastating fire in May 1917 which destroyed a portion of the park, including Thompson’s Mountain Scenic Railway. Beside the two Title The chicken nachos at the Amway Center in new railways, a Mangels Whip and Zarros Fun House rounded out President, Global SHE Solutions, Principle Orlando. the lineup of new attractions. Partner, Women in SHE: A Leadership Collaborative. You live in . What’s the neatest •1924: The at Dorney Park, near Allentown, undiscovered thing about your state? , opened on May 18. Herbert Schmeck, of the Number of years in the industry The great back roads. Every year we host Philadelphia Toboggan Company, designed the medium sized 28. the IAAPA/Give Kids the World Charity out-and-back coaster, which was simply known as Coaster. Because Motorcycle Ride, and everyone always says the park competed with nearby Central Park, it was redesigned Best thing about the industry they never knew such beautiful country for 1930 by Schmeck and included a more twisted layout, which The people; they are like extended family! existed in Florida. is better known today as Thunderhawk. It remains the oldest operating roller coaster in all the properties owned by Cedar . Favorite amusement ride Favorite outdoor activity Hands down at SeaWorld Orlando. I am an avid tennis player which comes in •1992: One of the most innovative installations in the final decade second to a great walk on the beach. of the last century, : The Ride opened to the public at If I wasn’t working in the amusement Great America, Gurnee, Illinois on May 9. The park’s industry, I would be … I always wanted to learn how to … general manager, Jim Wintrode, initially conceived the idea of a coaster train running on the outside of a loop, and worked with A college professor teaching safety and Play the guitar well. I’ve played here and Bolliger and Mabillard to create the highly anticipated design. The women’s studies. there, but not very well. inverted coaster opened to great fanfare and would eventually be replicated, with models opening throughout the world. Biggest challenge facing our industry The one thing that really gets on my Harmonization of standards worldwide, nerves is … •2003: , an company installation at which is a vital effort to ensure our industry People who are our restaurant servers, , Sandusky, Ohio, would be the first full circuit coaster continues to offer our guests a safe theme park workers, hotel housekeepers to break the 400 foot barrier. With a track height reaching 420 feet, experience no matter where they are in the and such, deserve the utmost gratitude it was the world’s tallest and fastest coaster when it debuted on world. and kindness, and it makes me crazy when May 4. To bring a fully loaded train to the top of the only hill, the people do not treat them that way. hydraulically launched coaster accelerates to an average of 120 mph The thing I like most about amusement/ in under four seconds. While the intense ride lasts all of 35 seconds water park season is … I am a big fan of … from start to finish, it is perfectly situated in the center of the park I started my career in Ohio where there was All sports! Love to watch and play. I am a where non-riders can enjoy each launch from a grand stand. Many a “season.” It was always an exciting time season ticket holder for the Orlando Magic, consider a ride on the popular attraction as the ultimate experience as we scrambled right up to Opening Day love the Cleveland Indians, the Buckeyes at Cedar Point. to get the park just perfect. It also was nice and the Cleveland Browns! since it meant the weather was going to get better! The drink I typically order when in a restaurant is … P.O. Box 5427 5-time Award Winner Favorite fruit A good glass of red wine. Arlington, Texas 76005-5427 Tomatoes. (817) 460-7220 Pick one: steak or seafood Fax (817) 265-NEWS (6397) The last item I purchased for more than FRESH seafood. Find us on Facebook $100 was … facebook.com/amusementtoday New court shoes for tennis. The last movie I saw was … The Heat with Melissa McCarthy and Follow us on When I look out my back window at Sandra Bullock … I love to laugh until I cry! twitter.com/amusementtoday home, I see … Dolphins and manatees … I live on the My favorite time of the day is … Banana River. The morning when everything is quiet and Subscribe to our YouTube channel Get a free QR Code scanner for your phone youtube.com/amusementtoday fresh. by visting www.mobiletag.com. 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014 DOLLYWOOD raise the train up the side of subsequent reverse plunge the mountain to a maximum that surprises riders with AT speaks with Gerstlauer’s Siegfried Gerstlauer Continued from page 1 Mechanically speaking, FireChaser Express is height of 79 feet. strong positive Gs. A sweep- an absolute marvel to watch as well as ride. But After cresting the lift, ing banked turn leads up and it was a bit of a challenge considering what Dol- The Ride riders enjoy a leisurely section then very quickly down into lywood was asking the engineers at Gerstlauer to As with many of of track at the tree line that the brakes. The train is held do to create this most impressive attraction. AT Dollywood’s themed includes a swoop turn, a flat in place until another rotating spoke with Siegfried Gerstlauer and asked him to comment on these challenges, specifically the attractions, a rich backstory curve and a shallow drop into track switch allows it to roll a high-banked fan turn. It’s backward into the station to launch system, track switches and the ride’s con- is a vital part of the overall trol system: Gerstlauer experience. Located in the at this point that FireChaser its original starting point. On the launch systems: park’s Wilderness Pass area, Express kicks into high gear. It’s quite obvious that ”While the launch system was designed for Dollywood, it FireChaser Express celebrates The train picks up and Dollywood has another hit definitely has its roots in the Family Shuttle. That system, which we the volunteer-based fire then careens through one of on its hands with FireChaser developed a few years ago, utilizes tire drive to accelerate the trains departments of the 1940s that several wooden fire towers Express. Park guests just and we used a similar system on FireChaser. On the track switches: protected the neighboring (re-purposed from the former can’t seem to get enough of ”We already had a switch track system in-use on a family coast- Great Smoky Mountains Adventure Mountain ropes it. Watching trainload after course), a series of drops, trainload of excited guests er in Spain. We used what we knew from that project to design a National Park. Coaster system that could take a lot of use, and ended up with an extremely passengers are recruits needed air-time filled camelbacks enjoying the new coaster, Pete safe and durable system for reversing the trains. At Dollywood the to help Chief Pete Embers spot and curves that hug the Owens sums it up: “The best system utilizes hydraulics to move the switches and has safety pins any potential fire hazards in rocky hillside. A serpentine compliment you can receive that need to lock and unlock as part of every cycle. the area. They are especially track section finds the train when you build a ride is On the ride safety system: mindful of recent lightning slithering into a fireworks families riding, getting off ”It really is a complicated system. With the ride having two launches, a chain lift, a block brake, and two reversing points, there in the area as well as Crazy testing area littered with and getting right back in line. crashed rockets and other That is exactly what we have is a lot more to control than a traditional chain lift coaster. However, Charlie Cherriebaum’s Gas & much like on Mystery Mine, we have a well-designed ‘base’ control charred remnants, and finally with FireChaser Express. It is Fireworks Emporium, which system so we could easily add on to it to develop the complicated is located nearby. Recruits into Crazy Charlie’s fireworks a great addition to the park safety system needed for this ride. never know when they might shed where the train is braked and with only a 39-inch height On building a family coaster: be called to save the day. to halt. Flames, sparks and requirement we are seeing ”I really am happy with the resulting ride. For the past 15 years a After arriving at the board- other special effects keep first-coaster riders and whole lot of parks have shied away from family coasters as they felt ‘bigger ing platform (Station No. 7), riders occupied while a track families ride together.” is better.’ But at Dollywood, you can really see that a family coaster can be marketable, fun, and attract a wide range of ridership. The 14 guests are secured with switch behind them rotates. Gerstlauer is represented Then, with a blast of in North America by ride design process was a great partnership with Dollywood and we individual lap bars in one of are extremely appreciative of the opportunity. Not only is the coast- smoke, the train is suddenly Maryland-based Ride three seven-car trains. When er great, but Dollywood added so much to it with their theming and the five-bell alarm sounds, an launched backwards from 0-20 Entertaiment Group of storytelling. We appreciate having them as a partner.” efficient tire drive propels the mph in just two seconds. What Companies. —Compiled by Scott Rutherford train forward at 16 mph in just follows is a quick ascent and 1.7 seconds. A swirling section of swooping dives eventu- ally lead to the , which utilizes a traditional chain to FAST FACTS

Name/Park FireChaser Express, Dollywood Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

Type Steel multi-launch family coaster (features forward/ backward launch sections)

Height/Length/Speed 79 feet/2,427 feet/34.5 mph

Ride Vehicles Three 7-car trains (each car seats two riders )

Manufacturer Gerstlauer Amusement Dollywood’s new Rides GmbH FireChaser Express once again proves that rides Engineering Track don’t require gargantuan Calculations physical statistics to be Ingenieur Büro Stengel successful. Gerstlauer (centerline layout) utilized creativity and ingenuity to produce a Ride Broker family roller coaster that Ride Entertainment Group appeals to both family’s with small children as well Opened as those visitors looking for March 22, 2014 thrills. AT/SCOTT RUTHERFORD May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5 Dippin’ Dots themed ice cream bursts into Dollywood PADUCAH, Ky. — Dollywood guests work and determination, not to mention the will experience an explosion of flavor with vision, creativity and quality that have been new Dippin’ Dots FireChaser Cherrybomb devoted to this project.” Ice, specially developed for Dollywood and Dippin’ Dots is being served at six its new FireChaser Express roller coaster. locations within the Dollywood theme FireChaser Cherrybomb, available only at park and at two additional locations inside Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country, Dollywood’s Splash Country waterpark. All delivers a sour cherry and fruit flavor with eight locations will serve the new FireChaser unexpected bursts of popping candy. Cherrybomb flavor. “It has a great mix of flavors,” said Dippin’ Dots are tiny, flash frozen beads Dollywood’s Pete Owens. “The popping of ice cream, yogurt, sherbet and flavored candy really helps bring it home for FireChaser ice. Invented in 1988 by microbiologist and Express.” entrepreneur Curt Jones, Dippin’ Dots offers A new exciting flavor isn’t the only thing more than 30 different flavors, plus seasonal Dippin’ Dots brings to Dollywood this season. flavors. The company’s administrative and The original beaded ice cream introduces the production headquarters are located in Tennessee Sundae Shop, a Dippin’ Paducah, . Dippin’ Dots are sold in Dots destination that serves a menu of more than 130 retail locations and thousands Dollywood guests can experience an explosion of flavor Dippin’ Dots treats such as sundaes, shakes of entertainment venues and special events with new Dippin’ Dots FireChaser Cherrybomb Ice, spe- and floats. nationwide. The company’s International cially developed for Dollywood and its new FireChaser “Returning to Dollywood has been a thrill division oversees licensees in a dozen Express roller coaster. Available only at Dollywood for the entire Dippin’ Dots team,” said Dippin’ countries. Resorts parks, the mix delivers a sour cherry and fruit Dots LLC Director of Sales, Adam Gross. •www.dippindots.com flavor.COURTESY DOLLYWOOD “This opening marks the culmination of hard

Family Coaster „FireChaser Express“ Dollywood, USA

America‘s fi rst dual-launch forward and backward Family Coaster

Gerstlauer Amusement Rides GmbH Industriestraße 17 D-86505 Münsterhausen Tel. (49) 8281 - 99 68 0 Fax (49) 8281 - 99 68 33 www.gerstlauer-rides.de [email protected] 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014 2014 NORTH AMERICA PARK PREVIEW Compiled by: Jeffery Seifert

CANADA Fun Spot (Indiana) British Columbia , Gurnee… — new Rocky Mountain Construction wooden Canada Place, Vancouver…Fly Over Canada — I-Ride Panoramic Flight Simulator coaster Nova Scotia Indiana Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, Louisbourg… Tramstar Holiday World, Santa Claus…Mayflower — Chance Rides custom-themed Pharaoh’s Fury; Ontario Overhaul of 14 Voyage trains — PTCI; new themed areas designed by PGAV Canada’s Wonderland, …Wonder Mountain Guardian — Triotech 4D interactive dark , Monticello…Dragon Wagon — new Wisdom Rides coaster; Wisdom Rides ride on ride system tornado; Zamperla Rockin’ Tug; SBF Balloon Wheel; Rio Grande train; kiddie boat ride Fantasy Fair at Woodbine Center, Toronto…Moser 11m. Spring Ride Tower Indianapolis , Indianapolis…SkyQuest — Chance Rides elevated track people mover Neb’s Funworld, Oshawa…Sparetime Express — E&F Miler coaster relocated from Jeepers Iowa (Maryland) Park, Altoona…Storm Chaser — Mondial Windseeker Toronto Zoo, Toronto…Soaring Eagle Zipline Modern Woodman Park, Davenport…Chance Rides 90-foot Giant Wheel Camping Lac Georges, Val-Alain…ProSlide Twister, , TurboTwister, Kidz ProRacer and Kansas Kidz Twister Waterpark, KansasCity…Verrückt — world’s tallest La Ronde, Montreal… — Mondial Roll Over Kentucky MEXICO Bay at , Louisville…ProSlide PipeLine, , FreeFall, Distrito Federal CannonBowl 40, Tornado 12 Six Flags Mexico, Mexico City… — Rocky Mountain transformation of Kentucky Kingdom, Louisville… — Chance Rides Hyper GT; Fearfall — Larson/ Medusa wood coaster to steel track; 60m. Slingshot Arm ; Professor John’s Flying Machines — Larson Jalisco Louisianna Selva Mágica, Guadalajara…Bullet — Schwarzkopf Wiener Looping/Bullet shuttle relocated New Orleans City Park, New Orleans…Live Oak Lady Bug — new family coaster to from Flamingoland (opened Dec. 2013) replace previous coaster with lifespan shortened by damage from Hurricane Katrina Maryland Alabama Montgomery Parks, Rockville…Cabin John Miniature Train — Chance Rides C.P. Huntington Splash Adventure Waterpark, Birmingham…Wacky Worm Coaster; Rio Grande train; Kiddie train Boat ride; SBF Balloon wheel National Harbor Waterfront, National Harbor…Capital Wheel — Chance Rides R60 observa- Arizona tion wheel Wildlife World Zoo, Lichtfield Park…Chance Rides coaster; Larson Flying Scooters Ocean Amusement, Ocean City… Arkansas , Upper Marlboro…Ragin’ Cajun — Zamperla spinning mouse relocated Little Rock Zoo, Little Rock…Chance Rides C.P. Huntington train from Six Flags Great America, new paint by Baynum Painting; Larson Flying Scooters; over- Magic Springs, Hot Springs…Sky Shark — haul of and Wild One trains — PTCI , Chula Vista…Taumata — ProSlide 6-lane OctopusRacer Berkshire Ski Resort, Charlemont…ADG Mountain Coaster , Anaheim…Rewind Racers — new Gerstlauer family shuttle coaster; themeing Edaville USA, Carver…Kersplash — E&F Miler Water Coater relocated from Washington State by R&R Creative Design Fair/Puyallup; Sally system , Anaheim…Big Thunder Mountain Railroad — Rebuild of existing ride with new Great Wolf Lodge Fitchburg, Fitchburg…ProSlide Tornado 60, Mammoth, SuperLoop with track by Dynamic Attractions SkyBox, Kidz Twister, Kidz ProRacer , Gilroy…Children’s Water Play area Six Flags , Agawam…New England Sky Screamer — Funtime 403-foot StarFlyer Sunsplash, Mesa…ProSlide SuperLoop with SkyBox Michigan Hurricane Harbor, Valencia…Bonzai Pipelines — ProSlide SuperLoop with SkyBox, FreeFall Avalanche Bay, Boyne Falls…the Big Couloir — ProSlide SuperLoop with SkyBox with SkyBox Michigan’s Adventure, Muskegon…Overhaul of four Wolverine cars — PTCI Knott’s Berry Farm, Buena Park…Restoration of Calico Mine Ride — Garner Holt Productions Zehnder’s Splash Country, Frankenmuth…ProSlide Hybrid: Tornado 24+Tornado 24, California, Carlsbad…Legends of Chima waterpark expansion with Lion Temple SuperLoop with Skybox, TurboTwister with SkyBox wave pool Minnesota , Oakland…SBF/Visa Safari Jeep track ride , Shakopee…New Route 76 themed area with Northern Lights — Zamperla Skater Ravine Waterpark, Paso Robles…Racer — ProSlide 4-lane ProRacer Coaster , San Diego…Chance Rides Tramstar Missouri Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz…New paint on — Baynum painting Hydro Adventures, Poplar Bluff...Twisted Six — WhiteWater West mat racer; 14 new Shaller Scandia Family Fun Center, Sacramento…E&F Miler relocated from , Enjuneering go-karts N.J. Six Flags St. Louis, Eureka… Soaker — Twist ‘n’ Splash SeaWorld San Diego, San Diego…50th anniversary celebration; new touch pools at explor- White Water, Branson…KaPau Plummet — WhiteWater 2x FlatLine Loops with drop capsule er’s reef , Kansas City…Steel Hawk — Mondial Windseeker relocated from Knott’s Berry Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, Vallejo…Tsunami Soaker — Mack Rides Twist ‘n’ Splash Farm , Valencia…Speedy Gonzales Hot Rod Racers — Zamperla family Nevada gravity coaster , Las Vegas… — new custom S&S El Loco coaster Universal Studios California, Universal City…Despicable Me Minion Mayhem — 3D simulator Cowabunga Bay, Henderson…New waterpark (delayed from 2013) with attractions from Polin Colorado Waterpark & Pool Systems , Denver…Brain Drain — Larson Giant Loop The Linq, Las Vegas…High Roller — 550-foot observation wheel (World’s tallest) Florida Wet’n’Wild Las Vegas, Las Vegas…Tornado — ProSlide Tornado 45 Aquatica, Orlando…ProSlide 3x SuperLoop with SkyBox, FreeFall with SkyBox Big Kahuna Waterpark, Destin…ProSlide 3x TurboTwister , Glen…Roar-O-Saurus — new Gravity Group family wood coaster Tampa, Tampa…’s Fury — Intamin Sky Jump New Jersey Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Lake Buena Vista…New theater for Festival of the Lion King Casino Pier, Seaside Heights…Bertazzon Musik Express; 40-meter ; I-Drive Live, Orlando…SeaLife Aquarium, Madam Tussaud’s Wax Museum, Orlando Eye — SBF 17m. Drop and twist tower 425-foot observation wheel Clementon Park, Clementon…Overhaul of 4 HellCat cars — PTCI , Winter Haven…Duplo Valley — new themed area with Lego farm animals, Diggerland, West Berlin…New construction-themed adventure park utilizing heavy construc- mini tractor ride and waterplay area tion equipment as attractions Florida Miracle Strip Pier Park, Panama City Beach…RipTide — SDC relocated from Keansburg , Keansburg…Looping Star — Looping Zyklon ZL42 relo- Pharoah’s Adventure Park (California); teacup ride cated from Sauble Beach (Ontario); S&S Frog Hopper Super Speed Fun Park, Panama City Beach…Chance Rides Sea Dragon Land of Make Believe, Hope…ProSlide SuperLoop with SkyBox Universal Studios Florida, Orlando…Diagon Alley — New Harry Potter-themed area with Morey’s Piers, Wildwood…Zierer Wave Swinger Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts enclosed roller coaster; Hogwarts Express train Mountain Creek, Vernon…ProSlide SuperLoop with SkyBox ride ’s Castaway Cove, Ocean City… — Chance Rides custom-themed The , Lake Buena Vista… — custom Vekoma mine Pharaoh’s Fury train with swinging cars. Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson…Zumanjaro Drop of Doom — 415-foot Intamin free fall Wet’n’Wild Orlando, Orlando…Aqua Drag Racer — 4-lane KrakenRacer ride (World’s tallest) Steel Pier, Atlantic City…SBF 9m. pneumatic drop and twist tower; Technical Park 60m. Ferris , Austell…New waterpark with Tsunami Surge — custom com- Wheel plex ProSlide Hybrid: PipelineWave + CannonBowl 30; custom complex 2x PipeLine + Storybook Land, Egg Harbor Township…WorkZone — themed car ride with construction CannonBowl 40 vehicles and animatronics Idaho New Mexico Roaring Springs, Boise… Cavern — ProSlide SuperLoop with SkyBox Cliff’s Amusement Park, Albuquerque...Wind Rider —­ ARM Vertigo , Athol…Spinning Coaster — Visa spinning, figure-eight coaster Western Playland, Sunland Park…Visa Spinning Coaster Illinois New York Fox River Resort, Sheridan…WhiteWater AquaPlay 650, Giant AquaTube, Kids Slides, Buffalo Zoo, Buffalo…Wattman Mini Express train PoolSider Fantasy Forest at Flushing Meadows, New York City…Zamperla Speedway Santa’s Village Azoosment Park, Dundee…WildCat — Pinfari Zyklon Z47 relocated from The Great Escape, Queensbury…Extreme Supernova — 15m KmG Afterburner May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 2014 NORTH AMERICA PARK PREVIEW

Luna Park, New York City… — new custom Zamperla multi-element coaster with Tennessee elevator lift Dollywood, Pigeon Forge…FireChaser Express — new Gerstlauer family launched coaster Martin’s Fantasy Island, Grand Island…KMG Speed with backward section Seabreeze Park, Rochester…Bertazzon Wave Swinger and Zamperla Balloon ride Texas Waterpark, Calverton…Interactive boat/water battle ride with theming by R&R Castaway Cove, Wichita Falls…WhiteWater AquaLoop Creative Design Corsicana Water and Adventure Park, Corsicana…new waterpark designed by LARC with multiple slides and water fountain show , Charlotte…Surfer’s Swell — ProSlide PipeLineWave, Dorsal Fin Drop — Hawaiian Falls Pflugerville, Pflugerville…WhiteWater Body Slides, AquaTube, Multi-Lane Mat CannonBowl 40 Racer, AquaDrop, Inner Tube Slides, Wave pool; theming by R&R Creative Design North Carolina Zoo, Asheboro…Chance Rides Tramstar Hawaiian Falls White Settlement, White Settlement…New park with WhiteWater Multi-Lane Mat Racer, AquaDrop, Inner-Tube Slides, Wave Pool; theming by R&R Creative Design Ohio Kemah Boardwalk, Kemah…Iron Eagle — Soaring Eagle Zip Line; Larson Giant Loop; Cedar Point, Sandusky…Lake Erie Eagles — Larson Flying Scooters; SlingShot — Funtime Overhaul of six Bullet cars — PTCI 72m. Slingshot; Pipe — Zamperla Skater Coaster; overhaul of Blue Streak trains and Pirate’s Bay Waterpark, Baytown…WhiteWater Boomerango and Colorado Drop Slide Mean Streak trains — PTCI Zoo, San Antonio…Zootennial — Chance Rides 50-foot wildlife carou- Columbus Zoo, Columbus…Specialty Vehicle Economy Shuttle sel Hocking Hills Nature Trails, Logan…Rope Course system , San Antonio…Bahama Blaster — ProSlide 4x SuperLoop with SkyBox , Mason… — new B&M inverted coaster; Renaming and painting of sus- Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Arlington…Wahoo Racer — WhiteWater 6-lane Whizzard; paint- pended coaster to Bat, painting of Skycoster and — Baynum Painting ing of several attractions — Baynum Painting The Beach, Mason…Soaring Eagle Zipline; 400-foot four-lane mat racer ride , Arlington…Bugs Bunny Boom Town — new kids area with three new Oklahoma rides Bell’s Amusement Park, Tulsa…Allan Herschell Little Dipper relocated from Fun Spot Trader’s Village, Grand Prairie…Flea Fall — Larson/Arm Super Shot Pennsylvania Trader’s Village, San Antonio…Flea Fall — Larson/Arm Super Shot; Chance Rides Pharaoh’s Dorney Wildwater Kingdom, Allentown…WhiteWater Triple AquaDrop, Constrictor Fury; Moser Rides 12m. spring ride , Hershey…Cocoa Cruiser — Zamperla family gravity coaster with helix; painting Wet’n’Wild Splashtown, Spring…Rebranding of park as Wet’nWild; ProSlide enclosed of Great Bear and — Baynum Painting Mammoth and new raft lift , West Mifflin…Overhaul of four Racer cars — PTCI Wonderland Park, Amarillo…Refurbished Eli ; Pipeline Plunge new paint; LED light- , Langhorne…Cookie’s Land — new themed area Flying Cookie Jars ing on drop tower and Captain Cookie’s High ‘C’ Adventures Utah Puerto Rico Hogle Zoo, Salt Lake City…Zoofari Express — Chance Rides C.P. Huntington locomotive and Surf and Fun Waterpark, San Germán…New waterpark with multiple slides, wave pool and four coaches lazy river Virginia Great Waves Waterpark, Alexandria…WhiteWater Master Blaster Crown Reef, Myrtle Beach…Explosion — ProSlide PipeLine, Kidz Twister, Twister , Doswell…Return of the iconic Singing Mushrooms — Garner Holt South Carolina , Myrtle Beach…B&N giant slide Productions Family Kingdom, Myrtle Beach…Zamperla Magic Bikes and Jump Around relocated from Water Country USA, Williamsburg…Colossal Curl — ProSlide Hybrid: Tornado 24 + Tornado Wave National Amusements, Myrtle Beach…Visa Bumper cars, Visa spinning coaster and KMG Wisconsin Speed Prairie Athletic Club, Sun Prairie…ProSlide 2x Twister with DropSlide South Dakota WaTiki Indoor Waterpark Resort, Rapid City…WhiteWater AquaLoop, Freefall, Whizzard Mat Racer (2), 2-lane Mini Multi, Giant Slide, Flowrider Double, Waves 10 m. Fish slide 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014

2014 INTERNATIONAL PARK PREVIEW Compiled by: Jeffery Seifert Tieling Waterpark, Tieling…ProSlide Hybrid: Tornado 24+Tornado 60, Tornado 12, Aquanation, Ringwood…ProSlide SuperLoop with SkyBox TurboTwister with SkyBox, CannonBowl 40 with explosion Docklands, …Melbourne Star Observation Wheel — Sanoyas Rides Xianlong Lake, Anhul…WhiteWater Family 6 Abyss, Family 6 Python Corporation (opened December 2013) Xishuangbanna Theme Park, Xishuangbanna…Zamperla MotoCoaster/Pony Express; , Coomera…ProSlide Tornado 12 B&M Flying Coaster; Intamin Water Coaster , Whittlesea…Typhoon — ProSlide CannonBowl 40 with extended slide (world’s Yancheng Happy Valley, Tinghu…New park with Golden Horse suspended looping coast- longest) er and sit-down coaster; Hebei Zhongye double loop corkscrew Luna Park, Sydney…Hair Raiser — Larson/ARM Super Shot drop tower Wet ‘n’ Wild Gold Coast, Oxenford…Expanded kids area with six ProSlide Kidz attrac- Bakken, Klampenborg…Falken — Gerstlauer Sky Roller tions , Nimtofte…Vikingeland — new themed area with two new rides: Wet’n’Wild Sydney, Sydney…Ride Entertainment Group 250-foot Skycoaster; new water- Drageskibet — Huss swinging ship; Vikingetårne — self-hoisting tower rides park (opened Dec. 2013) with ProSlide Behemoth Bowl (2), Mammoth (2), Tornado, Knuthenborg Safaripark, Lolland…ABC Rides Big Splash Tornado , Tornado 60, Tornado Wave, 6 Kidz slides Legoland Builland, Builland…Ghost — The Haunted House, walk through with indoor Austria drop tower — ABC rides Familypark Neusiedlersee, St. Margarethen…Heege Butterfly Gardens, Copenhagen…Restoration of mountain peaks to scenic railway for 100th Fantasiana, Salzburg…Knights Ride Tower — ABC Rides famliy freefall tower anniversary Vienna Prater, Vienna…Windowbana — two level ghost ride; Moser Rides 15m. revolving England drop tower Center Parks Woburn, Woburn…ProSlide enclosed Tornado 45, 2x PipeLine, 2x Twister, Azerbaijan TurboTwister, 2x Kidz ProRacer, 2x Kidz Twister Winter Garden Gabala, Gabala…Whitewater SuperBowl, Constrictor, Poolsider, Chessington’s World of Adventure, Chessington…Retheming and re-opening of Mack AquaTube, Master Blaster, AquaLoop, Whizzard, Boomerango, Speed Slide Blauer Enzian Belgium Crealy Devon’s Great Adventure Park, Exeter…Shark Trip — roller coaster Plopsa De Panne, Aidnkerke-De Panne…Viktor’s Race — refurbished Zierer large Tivoli; Drayton Manor, Drayton Bassett…Zamperla Air Race indoor waterpark with wave pool, lazy river and multiple slides including ProSlide Drusillas Park, Sussex…Hello Kitty Secret Garden — new themed area with meet and SuperLoop with Skybox greet, beauty parlor and three rides: Metallbau Emmeln car ride; Zamperla tea cup and sky hopper rides Ácqua Lokos, Capão da Canoa…Inversa — suspended shuttle coaster Paulton’s Park, Romsey…Bertazzon Double Decker Carousel Park, Sao Paolo…30m. Ferris Wheel Pleasurewood Hills, Lowestoft…Marble Madness — Maurer Söhne wild mouse relocated , …Intamin 10-inversion coaster from Flamingoland Bulgaria , Chertsey…Angry Birds Land — themed area with Simworx 4-D atttraction Aqua Mania Waterpark, Albena…New waterpark with ProSlide Mammoth, 4-lane Finland ProRacer, Dropslide twister (2) and 4 Kidz attractions Linnanmäki, Helsinki…Kingi — 75m (246-foot) Moser Rides revolving drop tower Club Hotel Bolero Aqua Park, Golden Sands…New waterpark with ProSlide CannonBowl Power Park, Alahärmä…Work in Progress — Construction-themed interactive Fun House 30, Tornado 12, 3x Pipeline, Kidz MiniRiver from Gosetto SRL Chile France , Santiago…Mack Rides Twist ‘n’ Splash Antibes Land, Antibes…Mack Wild Mouse relocated from Walygator Parc China Dennlys Park, Dennebroeucq…40m. Drop tower 3D Vision Creation Park, Binhai…Flare Meteor — Golden Horse suspended looping Didi’Land, Morsbronn-les-Bains…Cyclon Coaster — SBF Visa Group Cyclon (Zyklon-style) coaster Disneyland Paris, Paris…Ratatouille: The Adventure – L’Aventure Totalement Toquée de , Hengqin Island…New park with B&M ; Mack Rémy — 3D trackless dark ride; Le Bistrot Chez Rémy — themed restaurant Rides water coaster and SuperSplash Family Park, Saint-Martin-le-Beau…unknown roller coaster Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, Xiangzhou…WhiteWater Giant AquaTube, AquaTube, Fraispertuis City, Jeanménil…Ronde des Rondins — Zierer Tivoli coaster relocated from AquaDrop, AquaPlay, Wave Channel, AquaSpray Parc Astérix Euro Park, Penglai…White Horse Coaster Futuroscope, Poitou-Charantes…Raving Rabbids 5D attraction Fantawild Adventure (Jinan), Jinan…New park with Martin & Vleminckx/Gravity Group Kingoland, Plumelin…New park with Appolo Coaster — Pinfari Zyklon Z64 relocated from wooden coaster; Vekoma Boomerang OK Corral and Speed Chenille — Soquet coaster relocated from Fami P.A.R.C. Fantawild Adventure (Wuhu), Wuhu…Vekoma Boomerang , Dolancourt…Alpina Blitz — Mack Rides multi-element coaster Fantawild Dreamland, Shifeng…New park with Martin & Vleminckx/Gravity Group wood- OK Corrall, Cuges-les-Pins…Zierer Jet Skis en coaster; Vekoma Boomerang Parc Saint Paul, Saint Paul…Aérotrain — Vekoma junior coaster Foshan Nanshai Bay, Foshan…ProSlide HydroMagnetic Rocket, TornadoWave, Tornado Germany 60, 2x CannonBowl, 2x SuperLoop with SkyBox, 2x FreeFall with SkyBox Bayern Park, Reisbach…Zierer 40-seat Wave Swinger, Kontiki, Family Freefall Tower Great Mall of China, Sanhe…New park with launched coaster; Vekoma Dive Belantis, Leipzig…Small oval roller coaster Pretzel and Motorbike coasters Eifelpark, Gondorf…Eifel-Blitz — DAL Brucomela (Big Apple) Happy valley (Shanghai), Songjiang…B&M inverted coaster Erlebnispark Steinau, Steinau a d Straße…Erlis Seifenkiste — small oval coaster Happy Valley (Wuhan), Hongshan…OCT Thrust SSC1000 — S&S compressed air Europa-Park, Rust…Arthur - die Attraktion — Mack Rides inverted dark ride powered launched coaster coaster themed to Arthur & the Minimoys; Zierer Family Freefall tower; Zamperla Jump Hello Kitty Theme Park, Anji…Intamin coaster wheel with 8 fixed and 8 rolling cabins Around Hotgo Park, Fushun…New park with Martin & Vleminckx/Gravity Group wooden coaster Freizeit-Land Geiselwind, Geiseilwind…Black Hole — Zierer enclosed coaster relocated Jinling Happy World, Jin’an…Journey to the Stars — Hebei Zhongye 11 inversion roller from coaster Resort, Soltau…Flug der Dämonen — B&M custom wing coaster Jiujiang County Dream Park, Jiujiang…New park with family and mine train coaster Holiday Park, Hassloch…Sky Scream — Premier Rides launched coaster Kunshan Dream of Water Waterpark, Kunshan…WhiteWater Family Boomerango, Abyss Legoland Deutschland, Günzburg…Hotel expansion; X-Wing Starfighter made of Lego; , Rattler, SuperBowl new 3-D film Middle Zhejiang Amusement City, Wucheng…New park with looping and mouse coaster , Brühl… — themed Intamin reversing flume ride with indoor and Nantong Adventure Kingdom Water World, Nantong…WhiteWater Family outdoor sections Boomerango, Family Raft Ride, Master Blaster, Python, SuperBowl, 3-lane Whizzard, Tier- und Freizeitpark Thüle, Friesoythe…Slide tower AquaLoop, Rain Fortress, Waves, Wave Channel, Double FlowRider Therme-Erding, Erding…Additiono of eight waterslides from Wiegand-Maelzer Ningboo Indoor Waterpark, Zhejiang…WhiteWater Superbowl, Inner-Tube Slide, Trampoline Trier, Trier…Butterfly — Heege Butterfly and Racing Coaster — SBF Visa AquaPlay Rain Fortress, Kids Slides, Abyss, Family Constrictor, Family Rattler, Aqualoops, Group indoor coaster Multi-Lane Mat Racer Trampolino Familien- und Freizeitpark, Andernach…Small oval roller coaster OCT Yunnan Spa & Watarpark, Yunnan…New park with ProSlide Tornado 60, Traumlandpark, Sonnenbühl…ABC Rides mini flume CannonBowl, Tornado 12, TurboTwister with SkyBox, Pipeline, FreeFall, Hyrbird: Tornado India 24 x 3, 6-lane ProRacer Balvatika, Ahmedabad…Larson Qihe Happy World, Qihe…New park with multiple coasters from Beijing Jiuhua; Mack Dream Land Waterpark, Mumbai…WhiteWater Family Rattler, 6-lane Whizzard, launched looping coaster AquaLoop Romon World, Yinzhou…New park with Maurer Söhne X-car coaster; Intamin multi-ele- Gurgaon Waterpark, Delhi…WhiteWater AquaLoop ment coaster Kishkinta Theme Park, Chennai…Hindustan Amusement Machines Zyklon-style Sinma Kingdom, Luquan…New park with Hebei Zhongye double loop/double corkscrew coaster coaster and Golden Horse Space Car Lonavala Water Park, Mumbai…WhiteWater Speed Slide, Free Fall, AquaTube, Rattler, Sino Wonderland, Huainan…Speed Shuttle — Beijing Shibaolai suspended looping Boomerango, SuperBowl, 4-Lane Mat Racer, Master Blaster, Rain Fortress, Wave Pool coaster Indonesia Spiritsland, Luzhou…Leap of the Liquor — Hebei Zhongye double loop/corkscrew Fantasyland amusement park (Jaya Ancol), Pademangan…Refurbished Zierer Tivoli Sun Park, Dongcheng…Beijin Jiuhua Motor Coaster coaster Tianmu Lake Water World, Liyang…WhiteWater Python, Family Boomerango, SuperBowl, 4-lane Grand Wisata, Jawa Barat…WhiteWater Waves, Kids Slides, Kids Boomerango, Kids Whizzard, Flatline Loop, Free Fall Plus, Kids Slides, AquaSpray, AquaPlay Giant Rain Fortress Rattler, Family Python, SuperBowl, Constrictor, Family Rattler May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9 2014 INTERNATIONAL PARK PREVIEW Jungleland, Bogor…Zierer Force One Whizzard Mat Racer 4-lanes, Family Boomerango, Constrictor, AquaTube, Giant Slide, Water Bom Waterpark, Bali…WhiteWater Combination Constrictor + Python , Body AquaPlay Rain Fortress, Wave Pool Slides, Inner-Tube Slides South Korea Iran Children’s Grand Park, Neung-dong…Vekoma suspended family coaster Chitgar Lake, Tehran…WhiteWater AquaLoop, Family Boomerango, Abyss, Giant Lotte World Kimhae Waterpark, Busan…WhiteWater Abyss, Family Python, Rattler, AquaTube, Kids Slides, Constrictor, Whizzard, Waves, Extreme River, Free Fall slides AquaLoop, Master Blaster (Dueling), Family Raft Ride, Family Boomerango, Speed Iraq Slides, AquaTube, Inner-Tube Slide, FlowRider Double, Surf Waves, AquaPlay 1050, Al Zaqre’s Dream Park, Baghdad…Vekoma suspended looping coaster AquaPlay Giant RainFortress Majidi Park, Kasnazan…New park with multiple rides including Wacky Worm and Beijing Seoul Grand Children’s Park, Seoul…Zierer Kontiki and Wave Swinger Shibaolai loop/corkscrew Spain Ireland Aquapolis, Villanueva De La Cañada…The Cobra — ProSlide Hybrid: Tornado 24 + Flow House Tramore, Tramore…WhiteWater double FlowRider BehemothBowl 40 , San Martín de la Vega…Warner Beach — new Looney Tunes- Cinecittà World, Rome…New park with Intamin 10-inversion coaster and Intamin indoor themed waterpark family coaster with free fall drop; Intamin 54m. Giant Drop Port Aventura, Salou…themed Boat Battle from Mack Rides Japan Sweden Tokyo Summerland, Tokyo…WhiteWater Abyss , Gothenburg…Helix — Mack Rides multi-element coaster , Osaka…Vekoma junior coaster Skara Sommerland, Azwall…ProSlide Tornado Wave Yomiuriland, Inagi…Twist Coaster Robin — S&S El Loco Switzerland Morocco Connyland, Lipperswill…Mammut The Ride — Gondola ride through a tree trunk with spe- SindiPark, Casablanca…Gerstlauer Euro Fighter 320+ cial effects the Netherlands Thailand Yumble FEC, Roermond…Adventure — Vekoma flight simulator; — Vekoma/ETF Central City Bagna, Bangkok…ProSlide Tornado 12 3D interactive dark ride Catron Network Amazone, Pattaya…New waterpark with cartoon-themed slides and Norway attractions from Polin Hunderfossen Familiepark, Fåberg…Il Tempo Extra Gigante — Zierer ESC coaster Vana Nava Water Jungle, Hua Hin…WhiteWater Abyss, Rainfortress and Boomerango Phillippines Turkey Flow House Seasons Mall, Molino…WhiteWater double FlowRider Ankapark, Ankara…New park with Zamperla flying and twister coasters; Intamin 10-inver- Gloria’s Fantasyland, Dapitan City… loop and corkscrew relocated sion and LSM-launched coaster, Rapids Ride, Hyper Splash, Flying Island; Zierer Force from DelGrosso’s/Libertyland 190 coaster, elevated seating coaster, Jet Skis Russia Mall of Istanbul, Istanbul…Zamperla coaster; Moser Rides 18m. Jungle Lift Anapa Aqua Park, Anapa…ProSlide TornadoWave, 6-lane KrackenRacer, Hybrid Tornado Vialand, Istanbul…Nefeskesen (Breathtaker) — Intamin LSM-launched (Jet Ski) coaster; 24 x 3; Hybrid: Tornado 24+BehemothBowl 40 Fatih’in Ruyasi’ — Intamin tow boat ride with theming by Heimotion Pitor Land, St. Petersburg…WhiteWater double FlowRider UAE Sochi Park Adventureland, Sochi…New park with Mack launched looping coaster and Adventureland, Sharjah…Zamperla MotoCoaster Wild Mouse; Vekoma Giant Inverted Boomerang and I-Ride flight simulator; S&S~Sansei Ukraine tower ride Aquapark Yalta, Yalta,…WhiteWater Aqualoop, AquaDrop, Whizzard, Boomerango, Saudi Arabia SuperBowl, Constrictor, Master Blaster, AquaPlay Dana Bay, Khobar…WhiteWater AquaPlay 750 Lavina Mall, Kiev…Vekoma suspended family coaster South Africa Respublika Mall, Kiev…Vekoma junior indoor coaster Numz Adventure Island, Dolphin Coast…WhiteWater InnerTube Slides, Kid’s Slides, 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014 May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 11 INTERNATIONAL Rocky Mountain Construction announces first International project — See Page 14 Disneyland Paris to add new immersive Ratatouille dark ride STORY: Andrew Mellor [email protected]

PARIS, France — Dis- neyland Paris is set to unveil a major new attraction and mini-land at its this summer, in- spired by the Oscar-winning Disney/Pixar film Ratatouille. The film tells the story of Rémy, a young rat who has amazing talents in the kitchen and dreams of one day becom- ing a great chef. This leads to a fun but perilous journey that eventually sees him be- come the head chef at one of the most famous restaurants in Paris and his arrival at Walt Disney Studios Park will see him share his culinary de- lights and crazy adventures with resort guests. On the attraction Rata- touille: L’Aventure Totale- ment Toquée de Rémy, guests will shrink down to the size 4See RATATOUILLE, page13 The new Ratatouille-themed attraction and mini-land will open at Disneyland Paris this summer. COURTESY DISNEYLAND PARIS Merlin links with DreamWorks for new Shrek attraction STORY: Andrew Mellor tainment franchise. It is also the first time addition, there will be a rotating exhibit [email protected] that DreamWorks Animation will help to area supporting DreamWorks Animation POOLE, England — Merlin Entertain- produce an attraction of this magnitude film and DVD releases as well as a brand- ments has teamed up with DreamWorks by licensing the use of its characters and ed retail outlet. Animation in a new collaboration that will stories. The Shrek attraction will become see the creation of a unique themed visitor The first Shrek’s Far Far Away Adven- part of Merlin’s successful midway roll- attraction based on Shrek and his friends, ture will be sited at London’s County Hall out program as the sixth brand alongside one of the most successful animated fran- alongside Merlin’s other leading attrac- Legoland Discovery Centers, Madame chises of all time. tions in its South Bank cluster — the EDF Tussauds, , The Dungeon and The The landmark attraction will trans- Energy , the London Sea Life Eye Brand. port visitors through a live interactive ad- Aquarium and The . The Chief Execu- venture featuring Shrek, Fiona, Donkey, 2,000 square meter (21,528 square foot) ex- tive commented: “Devel- Puss in Boots and other favorites from the perience will be based on a brand new ad- oping an attraction based on Shrek and venture being written by the DreamWorks his friends is hugely exciting for Merlin Shrek and friends will be- hugely successful franchise and will see an team. Entertainments and the start of what we come a major draw for Mer- initial roll-out of six attractions during the It will feature a Shrek interactive walk- hope will be a wider collaboration with lin when the company intro- next nine years. The first of these will open through adventure and a character court- DreamWorks Animation. Merlin’s exper- duces Shrek’s Far Far Away in London in the summer of 2015. yard where visitors will be able to meet tise in delivering memorable days out for Adventure to its line-up of It will be the first time that Merlin has Shrek and his swamp friends, along with visitors and DreamWorks’ skill in devel- midway attractions. worked with a Hollywood studio to create COURTESY MERLIN AND a scaleable branded entertainment experi- characters from Madagascar, Kung Fu oping globally recognized entertainment DREAMWORKS ANIMATION ence based on a globally recognized enter- Panda and How to Train Your Dragon. In franchises will be a winning combination.” 12 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014 Heide-Park debuts Germany’s first wing coaster STORY: Andrew Mellor meters (2,533 feet) and utiliz- [email protected] es two, 24-seater trains with SOLTAU, Germany — nothing above or below riders The first wing coaster to open to create a unique flying feel- in Germany made its debut at ing. Heide-Park Resort in Soltau at The highest point on the the end of March. ride is approximately 40 me- Built by Swiss company ters (131 feet) and the top Bolliger and Mabillard, Flight speed reached is approximate- of the Demons is a €15 million ly 100 kmh (62 mph). Riders (U.S. $20.7 million) addition to experience 4g during their the park and is situated in an journey as they are pushed abandoned village in the Tran- down into their seats with up sylvania themed area. The to four times their body weight story behind the ride is one and also travel through a total of flying demons conjured up of eight flight maneuvers and by villagers, a big mistake as five inversions. These include the demons always need new a dive drop, underground de- souls to renew their energy scent, high speed camelback, to become strong and to con- Immelmann, revolution roll, tinue their flight. The villagers panorama curve, pretzel loop therefore “sacrifice” the souls and an overbanked turn with of visitors to save their own 90 degree incline. There are souls. also seven near miss elements, Riders experience a total of eight flight maneuvers and five inversions on Heide-Park’s The spectacular new adding further excitement to latest coaster. COURTESY HEIDE-PARK coaster caters to guests who the experience. are over 10 years old and from “We aim to offer our million in Germany’s first largest investment in our 35- with opening coming a year 1.40 meters (4.5 feet) to 1.95 guests more and more ground- wing coaster,” says Sabrina de year history as a theme park.” later when the park’s 2014 sea- meters (6.5 feet) in height. It breaking experiences and that Carvalho, chairperson of the Construction of the attrac- son began on March 29. features a track length of 772 is why we are investing €15 executive board. “This is the tion began in March last year 360 Play Leicester hosts BALPPA meeting for FEC members

LEICESTER, United King- dom — 360 Play’s Leicester FEC played host to a meeting of fellow play center opera- tors from around the U.K. on February 6, 2014 when Family Entertainment Center Associ- ation (FECA) members of the British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers and Attractions (BALPPA) attended a meeting at the venue. The day-long meeting at 360 Play on Meridian Lei- sure Park was attended by more than 60 members who were welcomed by 360 Play Managing Director Duncan Phillips, who provided some background details on the development of 360 Play and sister company DP Associates. Attendees also heard from speakers on a variety of subjects, among them BALP- 360 Play’s Leicester FEC played host to a meeting of fellow play center operators from around the U.K. on February 6, PA Chief Executive Paul Kelly 2014 when Family Entertainment Center Association (FECA) members of the British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers and who touched on several key Attractions (BALPPA) attended a meeting at the venue. COURTESY 360 PLAY issues for members, includ- ing government discussions PA events of relevance to the open forum which saw dis- tour of the 360 Play site, both was a great opportunity for over changes to school holi- FECA members, such as semi- cussion and debate on a wide indoors and outdoors. those in the industry to hear day times and, more recently, nars and other FECA regional range of subjects and challeng- Duncan Phillips com- how their peers do things and a suggestion for longer school meetings. es relating to the operation of mented: “We were delighted how they deal with the many days, both of which would A presentation on market- children’s and FECs including with the attendance on the different challenges that arise impact hugely on the play ing strategies and Public Rela- the results of a benchmarking day and felt it was a very from day to day. All in all I felt center and attractions sectors. tions was provided by David survey, social media, busi- worthwhile meeting for all it was an extremely successful He also provided details of Leon of Partners Leisure Ltd., ness expansion and pricing. concerned. A number of key event.” various forthcoming BALP- followed after lunch by an Attendees were also given a topics were discussed and it May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 13 nWave Pictures explores Galapagos Islands in new 3D IMAX film

BRUSSELS and BUR- 4 at the Beijing International giant screen cinema industry. in the Pacific Ocean, these re- rants. living thou- BANK, Calif. — nWave Pic- Film Festival held in associa- There is no doubt the film will mote volcanic islands have de- sands of miles from their natu- tures has released its new film tion with the China National foster greater understanding veloped over millions of years ral habitats share the seas with Galapagos: Nature’s Wonderland Science and Technology Mu- of a fascinating biological trea- in relative isolation. The result unique marine iguanas that at IMAX theatres and digital seum. sure: an archipelago, which is is a living museum of nature, spit sea-salt. This is a story of 3D cinemas in North America Eric Dillens, chairman of home to some 9,000 species, of with an abundance of curi- discovery, of survival against and Europe. A presentation of nWave Studios, said, “Galapa- which 80 percent of the land- ous plant and animal species the odds, and of nature’s inge- Productions in as- gos: Nature’s Wonderland show- dwelling population is indig- that have adapted to thrive in nuity. sociation with SKY 3D, and cases our commitment, work- enous.” this unique and challenging The Galapagos Islands are distributed exclusively world- ing with creative filmmakers Galapagos: Nature’s Won- environment. Giant half-ton governed by Ecuador and lie wide by nWave Pictures Dis- like David Attenborough and derland takes audiences to a long-necked tortoises lumber some 600 miles from the coast tribution, the 40-minute film is Anthony Geffen, to bring visu- paradise unlike any other. among dancing blue-footed of South America. written by renowned natural- ally compelling stories to the Located close to the equator boobies and flightless cormo- •Galapagos.nWave.com ist David Attenborough, pro- duced by Anthony Geffen and directed by Martin Williams. Galapagos: Nature’s Wonderland explores the Galapagos archi- pelago with its remarkable collection of unique plants and charismatic animals, filmed for the very first time in 4K 3D using revolutionary digital filmmaking technology. The film is scheduled to premiere at a number of the- aters this spring. Additional theaters will be added as the footprint expands domesti- cally and internationally over the coming months, with the Asian premiere set for April RATATOUILLE Continued from page 11 of a rat and join Rémy and his friends as they scurry through 1st 1st Place Place the kitchen, dining room and European Star European Star Award 2012 Award 2013 BEST BEST walls of Gusteau’s famous Pa- WATER SLIDE WATER SLIDE risian restaurant, while at the same time trying to avoid the from the film, Chef Skinner. It is a first-of-its-kind Disney attraction and will im- merse guests into an animat- ed world in which they will experience what it’s like to be a rat in a human sized world. The attraction will be lo- cated in a new corner of Toon Studio that has been trans- formed into a Ratatouille-in- spired version of the City of Lights. Additionally, the new mini-land will also feature a shop, Chez Marianne Souve- nirs de Paris, and a rat-scale themed table service restau- rant, Bistrot Chez Rémy. The restaurant, which will be the only one of its kind across Disney parks worldwide, will be directly adjacent to the new main attraction. After Crush’s Coaster, Cars Race Rally and Toy Story Playland, Ratatouille will be the fourth attraction at the Walt Disney Studios Park in- spired by a Disney/Pixar film. 14 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014 RMC building record-breaking wooden coaster in Sweden

ÖSTERGÖTLAND, Swe- den — Kolmården, the larg- est wildlife park in the Nordic region, plans to light up its forest in 2016 with the debut of Wildfire, a massive terrain wooden roller coaster from Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC). With a layout and profile crafted by Alan Schilke, RMC will build Wildfire’s track and custom trains in the U.S. from its own patented designs. The support structure will utilize Swedish lumber while Veko- ma, RMC’s European agent, will handle the coaster’s elec- mården. “By continuously ex- Above, This computer rendering gives a first look at Wildfire’s 187-foot tall lift hill and the trical and control systems. panding the park, Kolmården massive 4,265-foot long layout. Below, these CGI images show the ride’s impressive 83-de- RMC has inked a deal mak- will become an even better gree, 16-story drop and (bottom) the track layout as it races through the ever changing ing Vekoma its ride sales and destination and we can attract ground terrain. COURTESY KOLMARDEN support partner throughout more visitors. This will enable Europe. us to reach out to more people The name Wildfire has a with our public education ini- strong link to the natural and tiatives.” cultural history of the area. Wildfire’s physical attri- Wildfires helped to shape the butes are indeed impressive — landscape and have been criti- it will be 4,265 feet long; stand cal to the unique biodiversity 187 feet tall with an 83-degree, that has been preserved in the 16-story first drop; offer 12 area until this day. moments of weightlessness; “Wildfire, along with the and feature three complete in- other investments at the park, versions (zero-G stall and two is being built in order to de- barrel rolls). But its within a velop Kolmården as one of dense forested environment Sweden’s top destinations,” and placement around a tow- said Mats Olsson, CEO at Kol- ering natural rock cliff that will help to land it in a class all FAST FACTS its own. During the initial survey of Kolmården’s rugged moun- Name/Park tainous terrain, RMC’s Fred Wildfire/Kolmården, Grubb said: “We have a lot of it, we’ve put a very, very steep Östergötland, Sweden challenges on this site. There’s drop in it — 83 degrees, which a lot of rock here, and lot of is almost vertical,” Grubb Type different elements we have added. “We’re very excited to Wooden terrain coaster to work with. We have to fit work with Kolmården on this. I think we’re putting together Height/Length/Speed all this within the coaster and a great team. Combining the 187 feet/4,265 feet/70 its structure. We have a track mph product that allows us to put wood coaster with this cliff certain elements that haven’t will make this the most unique Elements been done before. We can go wooden coaster in the world.” 83-degree 160-foot first upside down, we can put in Wildfire will utilize two of drop; over-banked turns; over-banked turns. … a lot of RMC’s custom-designed six- three inversions (zero-G different tricks. This ride is car trains with riders seated stall and two barrel rolls) what we call a ‘mega coaster. ’ two-abreast for a total of 24 It’s big; it going to be exciting; passengers per train. Guests Ride Vehicles it’s going to set records. will be treated to a top speed Two six-car trains “We’re going to use this of 70.2 mph during the two- Tidstrand, principal owner of Wildfire, which will open (each car seats four riders, cliff and this rock and we’re minute adventure. Parks and Resorts. at Kolmården in the spring of two-abreast) going to incorporate it into “For a long time, our Amusement Today asked 2016, belongs to a new gen- the coaster. The view from goal has been to build the Parks and Resorts Ride Man- eration of hybrid wooden Design/Construction the top will be breakthaking. world’s best roller coaster at ager Peter Osbeck about his roller coasters. The ride is be- Alan Schilke This is going to be the lon- Kolmården. The challenge excitement about Wildfire: ing built using new, patented Ride Centerline / gest ground-up coaster RMC has been to develop a world “I have worked in this busi- technology that is pushing the Rocky Mountain has built with our new track class roller coaster that blends ness for 35 years, helped cre- boundaries for wooden coast- Construction product. There are no other in with the extraordinary ate and build 14 coasters. I ers. The first ride to use the wooden coasters like this in all landscape and the park’s at- never thought that I would new technology was Control System of Europe. We’ve also had to mosphere. This has finally be building a coaster of this Run, which opened in 2013 Vekoma Rides Mfg. B.V. put in a 45-degree lift, which is been made possible thanks to magnitude. Wildfire will be at . Wildfire modern technology. We are Opens steeper than normal. That’s so so awesome that very few will will be the first roller coaster delighted that this dream can Spring 2016 we can climb up the cliff and understand how extreme and of its type built outside the get on top of it. And to get over finally be realized,” said Johan fantastic it will be to ride.” United States. May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 15 The European Showmen’s Union visits Dublin for 38th Congress meeting Irish Showman’s Guild hosts event for European group; each association celebrates 60 years of history

DUBLIN — The Irish are congress was the uniform im- known for their great kind- plementation of the European ness and hospitality. At the standard EN 13814 for rides in beginning of the year, the par- Europe. DSB Managing direc- ticipants of the 38th Congress tor Hakelberg informed ev- Jim Seay, president of Premier Rides, shakes hands with of the European Showmen’s eryone about the current state Dennis Speigel, President of International Theme Park Union (ESU/UFE) were able of the atypical German route, Services, after signing the contract to build the Dragon- to experience it firsthand. which guarantees no grandfa- fire Coaster (custom high-thrill indoor/outdoor dark ride From January 3 - 5, 2014, the thering and so the owners of launch coaster) at Qatar’s Doha Oasis Mall. The project European showmen were older rides are disadvantaged. is slated to open in 2017. guests of the Irish Showmen’s The ESU continues to call for a COURTESY PREMIER RIDES Guild. Europe-wide scheme to secure Showmen representa- the European showmen pro- Premier Rides selected to supply tives from Germany, Nether- European showmen and the fession. coaster for new Doha Oasis Mall lands, Austria, Switzerland, future of fairgrounds for the The lecture about EN Belgium, Ireland, Scotland, 13814 was followed by a Pow- BALTIMORE, Md. — Premier Rides has been selected past 60 years. Ritter said: by the Halul Real Estate Investment Company to design and England, Sweden and Portu- erPoint presentation of the “With over 70,000 members build the signature attraction for the new Adventure Island gal met in the Irish capital to newly elected Deputy secre- in the national associations, in the Doha Oasis Mall. The highly-themed custom high-thrill discuss current topics of Euro- tary general Bernhard Gerst- the ESU is one of the largest indoor/outdoor dark ride launch roller coaster will be located pean showmen profession and berger about transport direc- professional organizations in in Doha, Qatar. to develop joint solutions. Europe. The ESU had gained tives for showman’s vehicles Jim Seay, president of Premier Rides said: “Qatar is one In the elections for the ex- a large acceptance and appre- in Europe. of the most exciting places to be in the world right now. ecutive committee, President ciation within the institutions Following the technical The development is unprecedented and combined with the Albert Ritter has been con- of the European Union and the presentations, the delegates preparations for the 2022 World Cup, there is a tremendous firmed by a large majority in European Commission over discussed current topics from amount of energy in the country. We are extremely honored his office. The Vice Presidents the past decades.” the national associations. The to be part of what is happening there. The magnitude of the Nicole Vermolen, Charles President Ritter thanked Scottish colleagues spoke Doha Oasis Mall project is quite stunning. One has to be Senn and Franck Delforge the Irish colleagues for the about double charging re- there to see and appreciate the amazing scale.” and Secretary General Steve perfect organization of the Ju- quirements when applying li- International Theme Park Services Inc. (ITPS) is the lead Severeyns were also re-elect- bilee Congress. The President censes for fairgrounds in their consultant on the $300 million Adventure Island where the ed. New member of the ESU warmly welcomed the dele- country that are in strong con- signature dark ride launch coaster will be installed. ITPS has Executive committee is the gates of the British Showmen’s tradiction to the European di- consulted on and constructed more than 500 amusement Secretary general of the Irish Guild and the Scottish section rective 2006/123/EC. The ESU parks in about 50 countries. showmen association, Chris in the ESU circle. promised its full support and Named Dragonfire, it will be one of the largest and most Piper, who had succeeded his After the presentation of will check on the problem. sophisticated attractions ever built by Premier Rides, and will incorporate Premier’s award-winning technologies such compatriot Russell Perks as the work results in 2013 by Still current for the in- as magnetic launches, high speed switches, and multi-direc- Vice president. Bernhard Ger- President Ritter and Secre- dustry are the transport prob- lems especially of the Irish tional movement of the vehicles. Additionally the attraction “With over 70,000 members and Finnish showmen. The features a backwards launch unlike any other where riders executive committee decided are launched up an extremely high vertical twisting spike that rises dramatically above the mall and is fully encapsulated to to speak in Helsinki with the in the national associations, the allow guests to take in the view and to appreciate just how political authorities about so- high above the building they are while remaining in a climate- ESU is one of the largest profes- lutions. controlled environment. Other topics in Dublin sional organizations in Europe. Seay commented, “Halul has brought together the theme were the cooperation of the park industry’s ‘best of the best’ to design and manage the The ESU has gained a large ac- ESU with the European Com- mall’s entertainment element. Premier’s engineers have mission, the education of the worked with the ITPS design team for almost a year to create ceptance and appreciation within young showmen in Europe, together a stunning attraction that complements the scale of the institutions of the European VAT rates, marketing and so- the mall and the desire for a world class attraction experi- cial media. The exchange over ence.” Union and the European Com- the course of the fairground “This is one of the largest, most complex, complicated season in 2013 and the positive projects we’ve ever worked on,” Dennis Speigel, president of mission over the past decades.” development of the Christmas ITPS shared. “It will be a seven-acre indoor theme park along —ESU President Albert Ritter on the political markets in Europe ended the the lines of a . It’s all state-of-the-art equip- important of the European Showman’s Union 38th Congress of the European ment, the latest and greatest.” Showmen’s Union 2014. “The entertainment component of the complex will be The social highlight of first class,” added Hasan Abu Rub, project director for Halul stberger, executive director of tary General Severeyns, Steve the international showmen Real Estate Investment Company. “We wanted a signature the Austrian showmen’s as- Severeyns and Frank Hake- meeting in Dublin was a large ride that would have a global impact and we are pleased to partner with Premier Rides on Dragonfire. Premier’s innova- sociation WKO, was elected as lberg, managing director of double birthday party at the tion and quality is evident in their work for other clients such Deputy secretary general. the German Showmen’s Guild Hotel Gibson. Until the early as Universal Studios and together we will create for our val- In his opening speech (DSB), reported about the cri- morning the guests celebrated ued visitors a one-of-a-kind world-class attraction.” President Albert Ritter point- teria and conditions for obtain- 60 years European Showmen’s ed to the political importance Union and 60 years Irish Located in Qatar, the Doha Oasis Mall project will consist ing the European fairground of upscale retail shops, fine dining experiences and an indoor of the European Showmen’s Showmen’s Guild accompa- culture in the UNESCO list for amusement park that will make the facility a landmark in the Union who successfully com- nied by Irish folk music and the cultural heritage. region. The project is slated to open in 2017. mitted to the interests of the Another focus at the ESU traditional dances. 16 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014 May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 17 WATER PARKS & RESORTS Thunder Island celebrates 35 years, remembers simple beginnings as a go-kart track — Page 24 Two parks get new ownership groups Former Bluff Falls water park Alabama’s Splash Adventure water park now led by Jack Falfas headed up by group led by Dan Koch

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. — United Parks announced on April 4 the purchase of the for- mer Bluff Falls Water Park. The water park will reopen in 2014 under new management and the name Hydro Adventures. Besides the name change, United Parks will be making many other improvements throughout the year, includ- ing the addition of a major new water slide named Twisted Six, property and we are already BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The opening July 4th weekend, and talking to other parks and hope Koch family has acquired Ala- a Triple Threat Basketball at- to have more announcements bama’s Splash Adventure water traction. The 50-foot tall mat soon.’” park and will re-open the park racer slide is being supplied by As part of their strong com- for the 2014 summer season. Dan WhiteWater West. mitment to safety, United Parks Koch, who led the acquisition, is There will be many other will require all lifeguards to be bringing his family’s seven de- updates and improvements trained and certified by the El- cades of experience in the amuse- throughout the year includ- lis & Associates National Pool ment and water park industry to his new home in Alabama, ing: 14 new go-carts from Tex- & Waterpark Lifeguard Train- Splash Adventures following the success the fam- as-based Shaller Enjuneering ing course. United Parks is also COURTESY GOOGLE MAPS © 2014 GOOGLE ily enjoyed at Holiday World & with a state-of-the-art control committed to creating a clean Splashin’ Safari in Santa Claus, Splash Adventure. We feel very Kiddie . system, and renovations to the and friendly environment with Ind. confident that because of their •Laser Maze by Funavation. mini-golf course and batting plans to update and improve “I am thrilled to be living very high reputation and ex- The park is also busy get- cages. the park in the future, continu- and working in this community,” perience of over 75 years in the ting numerous rides and water Expansions of food ser- ally adding to the overall fun said Dan Koch. amusement park industry, that rides in the amusement area re- vices will not only offer a more and experience of their guests. “Our fam- they will continue to take the habbed/rebuilt and inspected as robust menu to individual park The non-water park at- ily wants Ala- park forward to new, high levels quickly as possible. While some guests, but will now be avail- tractions, including the batting bama’s Splash of achievement for the benefit of rides may get open in time for able to cater for group events cages and renovated go-carts Adventure the entire area including those the second half of the summer and birthday parties. and mini-golf, will open mid Waterpark to who visit the park and the sur- season, Koch told AT that some United Parks will also be May. The water park will open be the number rounding communities and we requiring more work — like the adding two new wish them every success.” wooden roller coaster Memorial Day Weekend. one choice for Koch Events in the fall: an all-ages John Shanrock, a 35 year family fun and The Koch family has a repu- — will not reopen until 2015. The event during the day, named industry veteran has been family memo- tation for superior customer ser- Rampage will get all new track, vice and will operate the park control system, chain as well as Hydroween, and a scary event named the park’s new general ries for generations to come.” with a special focus on providing a total refurbishment of the PTC in the evening named Hydro- manager. Koch Parks, Inc. has pur- safe, family fun for all ages. New trains. HalloScreams. United Parks is an indirect chased the water park with 89 attractions for the 2014 season in- All guests will enjoy free “I’m very acres of land, which will aid in subsidiary of Purchase Capital clude: parking, free sunscreen, free ac- excited about and is focused on opportunities future expansion. General Attrac- tions, LLC, the park’s previous • Fajume, Wacky Worm; cess to inner tubes and free in- the opportu- in the amusement park, water owner, will retain 150 acres sur- Zamperla Rio Grande train; Al- park WiFi. nity to grow park, and entertainment indus- rounding the park for future de- lan Herschell boats and SBF Bal- Additional expansion plans this park.”Jack tries. The senior leadership in- velopment. Dan’s sister Natalie loon Wheel all sold from Gillian’s for Alabama’s Splash Adventure Falfas told cludes Jack Falfas and a team Koch, is a partner in the business. Funland, Sea Isle City, N.J. by In- Waterpark are currently being Amusement that brings more than 70 years Kent Lemasters, President termark Ride Group. developed. The park will re-open Today. “It’s a Falfas of experience to the company. of General Attractions, LLC said, •Mini Helicopters from Wal- for weekend operations begin- relief to get Hydro Adventures is United “We are pleased that the Koch dameer Park. ning May 17. the deal completed on our first Parks’ first operating property. Family are the new owners of •Junior Bumper Boats from •www.alabamasplash.com Factory wholesale pricing! • Over 100 designs available! • Made in the USA

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18 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014 NEWSPAPER EMPLOYEE IN GOOD STANDING Zoom Flume announces B.NEWS JEFFREYDEREK SHAW L. SEIFERTSPLASH EDITORIALEDITORIAL Gravity Gorge Zipline COMPILED: Jeffrey L. Seifert, [email protected] Hong ’sMEDIAMEDIA Ocean Park has unveiled its spout water. The new splash park is conve- attraction for 2014 vision for CREDENTIALaCREDENTIAL new water park in 2017. Ocean niently situated on 1.5 acres next to two other Park closed VALIDitsVALID Water World2010 water park in city parks, one for adult fitness and the other Guests can soar the mid 1990sTHROUGHTHROUGH but guest2012 comments since that for dogs. “We’ve got the adults taken care time have indicated a need for a replacement. of, the animals taken care of and now the through the air on Although no name has been chosen, plans children will be taken care of,” City Manager 700 foot long zipline reveal a park with both an indoor and outdoor Mark LeCouris said. “It’s one stop for all wave pool,GARY a SLADE surfing simulator and at least a three.” PUBLISHER, AMUSEMENT TODAY EAST DURHAM, N.Y. dozen other high-profile attractions. • — Zoom Flume, New York’s • Adventure Bay, the new waterpark in number one destination Sandcastle water park in , Windsor, Ontario, had to shut down for a England, has sprung leaks — three in fact. little fine-tuning. Responding to more than for family fun, recently an- construction consultation by The massive indoor waterpark, which opened 10,000 guest complaints about slippery floors nounced a new attraction for Canopy Tours, Haines Falls, the true thrill seeker: the new in 1986, had lost over 7.5 million liters (1.9 resulting in falls, the park closed for four days NY. million gallons) of water over the winter in February. During that time an after-market, Gravity Gorge Zipline. “We’re thrilled to have months. A crack was discovered in one of the sand-based coating was applied to the floor, The Gravity Gorge Zipline such a unique attraction at our pools, along with a fracture in a 12-inch pipe providing the necessary friction to alleviate will send guests soaring over water park,” Kerrigan, said. buried 16 feet underground plus problems slipping without being too rough or uncom- 700 feet through the air and “The zipline will offer a gut- with some dry joints in the pipework 20 feet fortable for bare feet. The city is also taking nearly 100 feet above ground. wrenching, heart-pounding, below ground level. Fixing the leaks required other comments to heart, and will install addi- Guests will soar through the adrenaline-filled experience a shut down of the water park for a few weeks tional tables and seating and is considering air, past the water park’s pre- for our guests and will pro- as teams worked around the clock to get the purchasing a conveyor for the Python slide mier attractions and will even vide a perfect complement to leaks fixed and the popular water park open rafts, so guests do not have to struggle carry- take a gravity-defying flight the lineup of family-friendly again during the busy winter season. At least ing the large rafts up the stairs. over the gorge at the center of attractions we’re proud to one of the major leaks was blamed on a prob- • the park. have at Zoom Flume.” lem resulting from construction flaws when Despite some opening-week problems “The zip line was en- Park guests will pay an the park was built nearly 30 years ago. and growing pains, the new Wet’n’Wild gineered by Mark Glynn, additional fee to ride Grav- • Sydney made an AU $ 6 million (U.S. $5.64 Geotechnical Engineering, ity Gorge, but are sure to be Although most of the news of Kentucky million) profit in its first few weeks of opera- Lockport, N.Y.” Zoom Flume treated to a pulse-pounding Kingdom’s resurrection and reopening has tion. Pre-opening sales of 160,000 season General Manager Ed Kerrigan ride unlike any other in the focused on the dry ride package, Hurricane passes generated $12.5 million in revenue. told Amusement Today. “The area. The park will open to the Bay, the park’s water park is also adding new Attendance at the waterpark has exceeded construction of the towers and public for the 2014 Summer attractions. In addition to a refurbishment of expectation with more than 400,000 guests zip line installation was done Season starting on June 14. the existing attractions, the water park will passing through the gates between its by Zoom Flume Staff with •www.zoomflume.com double in size with the addition of a new wave December 12 opening and January 31. , adventure river, kids cove, and a five- • story multi slide complex. Also included are The citizens of Thornbury, England, have an enclosed Mammoth, PipeLine, FreeFall, spoken. With a vote of 286 in favor, the city MutliBump, CannonBowl 40 and Tornado 12 will replace an aging pool in Mundy Park with — all from ProSlide. a new water park. 96 people voted in favor of • refurbishing the existing pool. Although no Recognizing the impact a new water specifics were given, it appears the new park park will have on the city and not wanting will be geared toward smaller children with to face delays, the city of Pflugerville, Texas, spray devices and small slides. made an unexpected $7 million payment • from its general fund to finance the start A fire department-themed children’s of construction of the Hawaiian Falls water spray park for Lely Aquatic Park in Orland, and adventure park scheduled to open this California, received a donation from Deseret spring. The funding was originally to come Farms, a fruit and nut grower in the local from bank loans taken out by taxpayer-fund- area. The charitable contribution will add a ed Pflugerville Community Development Dalmation Dog — complete with fireman’s Corporation (PCDC) but approval of the hat and spouting water — along with several loans took longer than expected. The PCDC park benches surrounding the spray park. is expected to pay back the loan from the city • once its bank loans are approved. If that does The newest Schlitterbahn waterpark in not happen, the city has a clause to collect Corpus Christi, Texas, is on track for a June money directly from the corporation’s funding opening despite cold and rainy winter weath- base — a half-cent sales tax on city transac- er. Steven Tyson, the assistant project man- tions — until the loan is repaid. The quick ager, said they’ve already made sweeping action by the city will allow the water park to progress. “It’s been an incredible experience open as scheduled. Mayor Jeff Coleman has to be here and see how the land’s transformed assured city residents that they will not be from just a golf course and sand — and now affected by the loan. — we’re standing in a river.” Like other parks • withing the Schlitterbahn family, this one has The new Tarpon Springs splash park in used a lot of recycled and repurposed mate- Florida, will keep the resident children wet rials, including wood from Loblolly pine tim- and cool. Approved by the city commission bers reclaimed from the Bastop, Texas, wild- last November, it is expected to open before fire; and ropes, lifeguard boats and cots from the end of the school year. The splash park the decommissioned USS General John Pope, will be somewhat educational as it incorpo- a U.S. Navy troop transport used in World rates indigenous creatures into its fountains War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Construction is in the final phases on the Gravity Gorge of fun. A manatee, sponge diver, stingray, The ship, commissioned in 1943, ended up in Zipline tower, new this summer at Zoom Flume. pelican and Atlantic tarpon will all playfully Brownsville, Texas, for dismantling. COURTESY ZOOM FLUME May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 19 20 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014

WATERPARKS Hawaiian Falls’ two newest park layouts unveiled As construction rushes to finish up Hawaiian Falls’ two new-for-2014 waterparks,AT gets MARKET PLACE this preview look at each property courtesy of Anaheim, Calif.–based R&R Creative De- sign. Below, the White Settlement property shows the compact design with zipline tow- ers. The Pflugerville property (bottom) is a more expanded property and shows a trian- gular zipline design. Both parks, expected to open in time for the summer season, will feature slides from WhiteWater West. R&R is providing the park design and theming at both properties. COURTESY R&R CREATIVE

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Park began in 1979 as a go-kart track Thunder Island owners continue to look ahead while remembering the past

STORY: Pam Sherborne making other changes. The [email protected] bumper boats were removed and replaced with a small lazy GRANBY, N.Y. — In its river ride. 35th year of operation as an ProSlide’s ProBowl was entertainment facility, owners installed, featuring a 45-foot of Thunder Island continue to tall tower. look at ways to move through The wheel was sold two time efficiency, successfully years ago and replaced by a and suitable to their own Soaring Eagle Zip Line. needs. “I really, really like this The amusement facility, ride,” he said. “Anyone can predominately now a water operate it and everyone likes park, began as a go-kart track it.” built in 1979. Harry Perau said over the “It was actually built in an years some very interesting apple orchard,” said Tammie back stories have come out. Perau, who owns the facility The idea of the go-kart track with her husband Harry Pe- came from some overly ener- rau. “The property belonged gic 21-year-olds who had too to his family. He already had much time on their hands. the go-karts when we met.” “It also stemmed from But, then the two started a banker who saw potential expanding and changing the and wrote a garage loan and size and scope of the facility. modified auto loan for the go- After the go-kart track, karts,” he said. “The ‘Jungle Thunder Island, started 35 years ago as a go-kart track, has grown today to include much came a BMX track, which grew Golf’ course was designed on more as seen in this view from the Soaring Eagle Zip Line. Below, the ProSlide ProBowl to be one of the most popular bar napkins in the dead of win- tower is just one of several waterslides for guest to enjoy. At bottom, group catering at its in its area in the northeast. ter. The current clubhouse/of- special events area is a big part of the park’s company bookings. From there, the two pur- fice building was built from COURTESY THUNDER ISLAND chased a helicopter ride, bum- the ashes of the former build- per boats and an Eli Bridge ing on its foundation.” Soaring Eagle Zip Line. 16 wheel from Playland Park, The park’s ProBowl had The complex also has an Rye, N.Y., in the late 1980s. actually been sent first to a fa- adjacent Oasis outdoor bar- A miniature golf course cility in Florida whose owner becue pavilion where outdoor was added to the mix and the rejected the color tint. company picnics, birthday facility’s banquet business “After a call from ProSlide, parties and steak and clam was started. we took delivery, laid out a bakes are held. Then, the two decided pool, built a tower and in- The indoor Oasis, an they wanted a . stalled it in a three-month 8,000-square-foot facility with “I really wanted to buy time frame,” Harry Perau old hardwood floors and an just one waterslide,” said said. “The newest slides, the antique wooden bar, hosts Harry Perau. “I had met Rick enclosed black water tunnel many wedding receptions, re- Hunter (ProSlide Technology) twisters, had been a design on unions, senior dinner dances, and told him I was thinking the boards for three years.” proms, fundraisers, holiday about buying a waterslide. He However, Perau said bud- parties and company work- said, ‘you can’t just have one geting, cold summers, and a shops. slide.’ booming entertainment indus- Tammie Pareau said the “He then told me there try across the nation creating company picnic and special was a park that was going out a demand stalled the project event areas of the park have of business,” Perau contin- and put it beyond reach. grown substantially over the ued. “But when the market last years. The water rides were dis- crashed six years ago, and a Yet, with all this success, mantled from a county-owned Marriott cancelled a project the Perau family is not the one park in Pennsylvania and re- after the fiberglass was manu- that will sit quietly on what erected at Thunder Island. factured, ProSlide once again they have. In fact, over the last There were two body slides, called...,” he said. year Harry Perau has taken one tube ride and two kiddie Today, Thunder Island still a very close look at possibly slides. has the original go-kart track, selling the facility or partner- “Rick told me these at- with three styles of karts. ing with a larger company. tractions would be the least “We no longer have the “We put some feelers out But, these options weren’t started moving some dirt expensive water attractions I kiddie go-karts,” Tammie Pe- there and we got about a half very appealing. around on the additional 80 would ever buy,” Perau said. rau said. “We only have go- dozen offers but they were all “All those that made these acres we purchased for expan- “He was certainly right. When karts for adults.” from people offering revenue offers either wanted us to op- sion,” he said. I purchased my ProBowl The facility has a two-acre sharing,” Harry Perau said. erate more hours per day and/ So, for now, he is looking (from ProSlide), I think I paid miniature golf course, eight Those offers came from or add more days to our sea- forward and ahead, thinking the same for just the tower as water slides, a kiddie mini riv- people who wanted to place son,” Harry Perau said. “After perhaps that area might be I did all the first water rides.” er, kiddie activity pool, Sliders a ride in the park for either running this park for 35 years, great for a camping area and, Within just the last four or Cafe, clubhouse for sales, of- the park to operate or the ride I really didn’t want to do that. of course, more waterpark ex- five years, the facility began fices and game room, and the owner to operate. “At the same time, we pansion. May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 25 Drowning it’s the leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1-5.

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S ED TAT IT E N S U

EST’D 1988

S W N S I S M A L S CHOO 26 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014

Disney, USA Wet ‘n’ Wild Sydney, Australia OCT Tianjin Happy Valley, China VinPearl Royal City, Vietnam

Noah’s Ark, USA Holiday World, USA Yas Waterworld, UAE Beach Park, Brazil

SeaWorld, USA Six Flags, USA Siam Park, Spain Center Parcs, United Kingdom

60+ AWARDS IN 20 YEARS May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 27

Disney, USA Wet ‘n’ Wild Sydney, Australia OCT Tianjin Happy Valley, China VinPearl Royal City, Vietnam

Noah’s Ark, USA Holiday World, USA Yas Waterworld, UAE Beach Park, Brazil

SeaWorld, USA Six Flags, USA Siam Park, Spain Center Parcs, United Kingdom

60+ AWARDS IN 20 YEARS 28 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014 KeyLime Cove receives award from American Hotel & Lodging Association

GURNEE, Ill. — Key- distributed at the AH&LA to serving the basic needs Lime Cove, the Chicagoland Stars of the Industry con- of its residents such as food, Indoor Waterpark Resort, ference in Washington D.C. clothing, shelter, education was awarded the Outstand- held in April. and health. Recent commu- ing Community Service KeyLime Cove shows nity service involvement Award from the American its dedication to its local includes: Hotel & Lodging Associa- Lake County residents by •Annual Commu- Key Lime Cove in Gurnee, Ill. was recently presented a com- tion. The AH&LA Stars of supporting non-profits and nity Days Campaign In munity service award. AT/FILE the Industry Awards were community events related 2013, KeyLime Cove raised $52,345 through its annual Community Days Cam- paign, benefiting the Unit- ed Way of Lake County, Gurnee Police Department and the Gurnee Fire Depart- ment who used a portion of their funds to purchase Thermo Imaging Cameras. •Cook County Anti- Drug Poster Contest Key- Lime Cove is a primary sponsor providing one- night gift certificates to the winners as well as helping judge the submitted art- work by seventh and eighth grade students in Cook County. •Donating Goods & Services KeyLime Cove regularly donates to various charitable causes through the state of Illinois. Since 2010, more than $178,000 in room value has been do- nated to a variety of causes related to children’s health and education. “The hotel industry has always contributed greatly to the local commu- nities that they serve. Ho- tel members of the Illinois Hotel and Lodging Asso- ciation (IHLA) are leaders in supporting various good causes, often with little fan- fare and public awareness,” said IHLA President and CEO Marc J. Gordon. “Key- Lime Cove has consistently done an outstanding job in serving many good causes and projects in its commu- nity and throughout the state of Illinois. IHLA is very proud that KeyLime Cove was the recipient of the American Hotel and Lodging Association’s 2013 “Outstanding Community Service Award.” •www.keylimecovecom May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 29 PARKS & CARNIVALS SeaWorld San Diego celebrates 50 years — Pages 34-36 / Midway numbers up in Houston — Page 37 Kings Island unleashes Banshee, world’s longest inverted coaster

MASON, Ohio — Kings Is- land is one of those parks that likes to do things big. The Beast and Diamondback are prime examples of this over-the-top dedication that keeps thrillseek- ers coming back for more, year after year. The park’s 15th roller coaster, Banshee, fits in quite nicely with its older siblings. Securing the title of world’s longest inverted coaster, Ban- shee screamed onto the scene on April 18, 2014 when it took its first public riders.

“The ride has been designed with the thrill-seeker in mind. It’s an incredible ride deliver- ing two and one-half minutes of non-stop action. The elements incorporated into this ride make for a ride experience that is unmatched on an ,” said Greg Scheid, Kings Island vice-president and general manager. Carrying a price tag of $24 million, Banshee is the biggest investment in Kings Island’s history. The new thriller replac- es and takes over the same real estate previously occupied by the wooden coast- er, which departed this earthly plane in 2012. Supplied by Switzerland’s Bolliger & Mabillard, Banshee stands 167 feet tall and treats riders to a 68 mph tour of the Top, Kings Island has intro- ride’s 4,124 feet of track. The ride ing terrain, Banshee offers sev- duced Banshee, the world’s layout, specially designed for eral unique elements that dis- Kings Island, includes a unique tinguish the ride from others of longest inverted roller collection of elements: a 150-foot its kind. Two of the most unique coaster. Right, the new B&M Curved Drop, Dive Loop, Verti- features about Banshee are the coaster features 4,124 feet cal Loop interacting with the lift, massive size of every loop, and of track and a 167-foot-tall Zero-G-Roll, , Outside unlike other roller coasters, lift, which threads the first Loop, Spiral, In-Line-Roll, and the top speed isn’t reached un- . Above, riders Carousel. til halfway through the ride’s experience the Batwing. Constructed over undulat- 4See BANSHEE, page 31 AT/GARY SLADE Creating Memories & Profitability

• abc rides switzerland • Cogan Kiddie Rides • Moser Rides • Used Rides & Games • Wattman Trains Nashville Zoo Train www.intermarkridegroup.com Voodoo Interactive Raft, abc rides Hoopla, Moser Rides Wattman Mini Express TEL 615.370.9625 FAX 615.370.8852 30 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014 Kings Island’s The Beast celebrates 35th anniversary MASON, Ohio — Very few Appropriately unleashed roller coasters have managed to media and invited guests in to attain the iconic status of the a steady downpour on Friday, The Beast at Kings Island. Built April 13, The Beast instantly to shatter world records, this became an international super- one-of-a-kind super wonder ex- star. Sprawling over 35 acres of ploded onto the scene in 1979 as forested ravine outside the park the world’s longest, tallest and proper, this phenomenal coaster fastest wooden roller coaster. It amazed every thrillseeker who was envisioned to deliver the had the courage to climb aboard ultimate thrill, and it did not for a high-speed rampage disappoint. through the dark woods. Designed by Al Collins and Jeff Gramke with input from the FAST FACTS Philadelphia Toboggan Compa- ny’s John Allen, the Beast broke The Beast at Kings Island celebrates 35 years of terror in new ground like no previous 2014, having first opened on Friday, April 13, 1979 after two ride. Working without the aid of years of research and design – all by Kings Island personnel, modern computers, the Kings The iconic Beast at Kings Island celebrates its 35th anniver- and one year of construction. Island team poured their col- sary in 2014. The monstrous ride (shown here under con- The record-breaking features of The Beast included: lective hearts and souls into de- struction) debuted in 1979 as the worlds longest, tallest and • A 7,359-foot long track (1.4 miles) and ride time of four livering an attraction featuring fastest wooden roller coaster. Built on 35 acres of dense for- minutes, 10 seconds a collection of over-the-top ele- est outside of the main park, The Beast treats guests to a • Vertical drops of 135 feet (at a 45-degree angle) and 141 ments never attempted includ- powerful four-minute rampage that includes underground feet (at an 18-degree angle) ing nearly 1.5 miles of wooden tunnels, speeds of nearly 70 mph and an intense double- • A 125-foot long underground tunnel at the bottom of the track, underground tunnels, 135-foot drop layer helix (below) final that never fails to impress. blazing speeds approaching 70 COURTESY KINGS ISLAND • Eight banked turns, some to 45 degrees mph and more than four min- • A massive, 540-degree helix tunnel near the end utes of ride time. • Speeds up to 64.77 miles per hour Over the years, the ride has — been tweaked and adjusted for To get the project off the drawing board and underway Kings maintenance reasons but it still Island called in Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters legendary retains the title of “world’s lon- designer John Allen to help overcome one technical problem gest wooden coaster” at 7,400 related to capacity. Allen solved the problem with the addi- feet. Its raucous double-layer tion of several sets of horizontal track-side pusher tires that spiral finale endures as one of helped speed up each PTC train’s departure from the station. the most intense, intimidating Listed below is the team that made The Beast a reality: and memorable instances on • Charles S. Meachem, Jr., Chairman of the Board, Taft any operating roller coaster on Broadcasting Company the planet. • Dudley S. Taft, President, Company And now, 35 years later, • Gary S. Wachs, Executive Vice President, Amusement The Beast still rules in a class Park Group, Taft Broadcasting Company all its own with the unwaver- • Charles Flatt, Vice President Construction & Engineering, ing admiration from a legion Amusement Park Group, Taft Broadcasting Company of devoted fans. Though there • William C. Price, Vice President & General Manager, may be taller and slightly fast- Kings Island er wooden coasters out there, • Frank Thompson, Operations Director, Kings Island none can match the length or • Walt Davis, Director of Park Services, Kings Island raw, primal power of this Ohio • Charles Dinn, Director of Construction, Maintenance & original. Engineering, Kings Island • Bill Reed, Director of Rides, Kings Island • David Palmer, Director of Marketing, Kings Island Kings Island’s • Dick Fussner, Director of Loss Prevention, Kings Island Racer to give • Chris Schaffer, Controller, Kings Island • Al Collins, Resident Engineer, Kings Island 100th million ride • Jeff Gramke, Assistant Engineer, Kings Island • Jimmie Nickell, Assistant Director of Construction, Not to be forgotten, also Maintenance & Engineering, Kings Island reaching a milestone this • Charles Swing, Maintenance Manager, Kings Island year is Kings Island’s Racer • Charles Wright, Carpenter Foreman, Kings Island wooden coaster, which will — give its 100 millionth ride The Beast has accumulated the following statistics since it later this season. The opened in 1979: Racer’s best season was • Each of the trains has traveled a total of 865,133 miles. 1976 when the duel-tracked That’s the equivalent of 35 times around the world! beauty gave 3,681,338 • A grand total of 48,882,975 million rides have been tak- rides in one season, a park en by park visitors. record for ride capacity. • 1980 was the record year for the most number of rides. Opened with Kings Island in There were 2,150,353! 1972, was the first • July 17, 1981 was the record day, with 20,885 riders. wooden coaster to be built • The record hour was 1,680 on June 15, 1980 (Normal in a theme park capacity is 1,200). AT/SCOTT RUTHERFORD —Source: Kings Island May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 31

BANSHEE FAST FACTS Continued from page 29 course. Since Banshee’s lift hill Name/Park is on a higher elevation than the Banshee/ other side of the ride that goes Kings Island down into a valley, the total el- Mason, Ohio evation change is 208 feet from the highest point at the top of Type Inverted steel coaster the lift hill to the lowest point, which is the bottom of the Ba- Height/Length/Speed twing between loops four and 167 feet/4,124 feet/68 mph five. “The in-line roll near the Elements end of the ride is one of my fa- One of the most unique ride 150-foot first drop; total vorite elements. It will surprise elements on Banshee is this elevation change of 208 you,” said Greg Scheid, Kings Zero-G-Roll, shown above. feet; seven inversions Island vice-president and gen- Top right, Banshee lead (dive loop, a vertical loop eral manager. Kings Island to its all-time encircling the lift hill, a Banshee utilizes three trains opening day attendance zero-gravity-roll, two ba- with eight cars per train. Riders record. Right, Banshee twing loops, outside loop, will be arranged four abreast finishes with this thrilling spiral, in-line roll for a total of 32 riders per train. Carousel spiral. and carousel) Hourly capacity with three AT/GARY SLADE trains is expected to be 1,650 Ride Time/Capacity guests. 2:30/1,650 pph Banshee is themed to a ride on Banshee. Like the Beast, wailing mythological messen- it’s something you’ll always re- Ride Vehicles member and look forward when ger from the underworld with Three, 8-Car trains you visit Kings Island,” said flowing white hair and gleam- (each car seats four riders) ing eyes. Textured lighting and Don Helbig, public relations area manager, Kings Island other lighting effects will bring Design/Engineering “It’s everything an inverted the Banshee legend to reality, Bolliger & Mabillard creating the ultimate night ride roller coaster should be, and more,” added Richard Zim- experience. Cost/Opened merman, chief operating officer, “If you think riding the $24 million/April 18, 2014 Beast at night is a thrill, wait Entertainment Com- until you experience a night pany.

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look? ! !! Follow us at ! baynumpainting.com or @baynumpainting on Twitter 32 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014 AMUSEMENT Ruling the roulette roost MARKET PLACE Caesars Entertainment officially rolled out its much-anticipated new Las Vegas attraction, The High Roller, a record- breaking 550-foot tall observation wheel with high-tech, climate-con- trolled enclosed gondolas, in early April. Look for the complete story be- hind this landmark scenic ride, which serves as the dramatic backdrop for the company’s newly opened outdoor shopping prom- enade on The Strip called The Linq, in the June AT. AT/GARY SLADE

Adventuredome opens Batman game SimEx-Iwerks teams up with Warner Bros. Consumer Products to offer Batman-branded laser maze attraction

LAS VEGAS, Nevada — SimEx-Iwerks has announced the launch of a new fully themed Batman attraction that Aerial Tramway Design & Manufacture was developed exclusively with Warner Bros. Consumer SkyTrans Mfg.,L.L.C. Products on behalf of DC En- tertainment. The first of its 106 Burnham Intervale Road Contoocook, N.H. 03229 kind, the Batman Laser Chal- Above, the Batman Laser Phone: (603) 746-4446 Fax: (603) 746-4447 lenge, recently opened at the Challenge recently opened Circus Circus Adventuredome at the Circus Circus •Specializing in sales & refurbishment of used aerial tramways in Las Vegas just in time for the Adventuredome, where •Replacement parts for aerial tramways and amusement rides park’s spring break crowds. players compete against •New ride control systems and modifications The interactive game expands each other via a scorecard •Rebuilt used chairlifts - one year guarantee on the typical laser maze mod- posted on a computer el by infusing a powerhouse screen. Right, with El Loco (603) 746-4446 Parts and Service brand to enhance the experi- coaster construction now Jerry Pendleton or Dan Pendleton ence and appeal to a broad de- complete, Circus Circus has mographic. started the complete re- The Batman Laser Chal- painting of the entire theme lenge delivers an action- park flooring. packed adventure that fea- AT/GARY SLADE tures high-visibility lasers, UV lighting, branded elements, “Warner Bros. Consumer Iwerks. “The Batman brand character dialogue, music and Products is proud to continue will elevate guest experience special effects. The highly our partnership with SimEx- and generate incremental rev- recognizable Batman brand Iwerks to bring a dynamic and enue at any site.” drives attendance, invok- exciting dimension to the ever- The Batman Laser Chal- ing nostalgia in some guests, popular Batman brand,” said lenge requires minimal space, while others will connect with Karen McTier, executive vice has a throughput capacity of its modern day blockbuster president, Domestic Licensing 30-40 guests per hour and per- successes. and Worldwide Marketing at forms well as a stand-alone “Our guests are very ex- Warner Bros. Consumer Prod- attraction or as a complement cited about this new attrac- ucts. to a 4-D Theater. The experi- tion, many opting to take on “We are excited to add ence is available in both single the challenge more than once this one-of-a-kind attraction and double maze configura- to improve their score or to to our extensive entertainment tions and challenges guests to Keep our amusement park industry strong! compete with a friend,” says portfolio,” says Mark Cornell, train with Batman in order to Buy products and services from these suppliers. Tom Nolan, vice president of senior vice president of Attrac- protect the citizens of Gotham the Adventuredome. tions Development at SimEx- City from The Joker. May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 33 34 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014 New Explorer’s Reef enlivens 18-month celebration SeaWorld marks 50 years with eco-messaging, splashy fun

STORY: Dean Lamanna section called Explorer’s Reef. [email protected] An immersive experience incorporating four 24,000-gal- SAN DIEGO, Calif. — When lon saltwater and freshwater it comes to combining nature, touch pools, Explorer’s Reef was education, conservation and inspired by a coral reef and the entertainment, no amusement wildlife often found in this type company in history has done it of ocean environment. It offers like SeaWorld. And this year, the up-close, interactive encounters park that with smaller forms of marine started it all marks its golden an- life, such as shark pups, rays and niversary. guins and flamingoes, and a new horseshoe crabs, as well as new In late March, SeaWorld evening show, “Shamu’s Cel- open-air retail and food outlets. Parks & Entertainment, head- ebration: Light Up the Night” “Explorer’s Reef transforms quartered in Orlando, Fla., and — with original music and pro- our guests’ arrival by providing now encompassing 11 destina- duction elements plus plenty of them with unparalleled welcom- SeaWorld San Diego is celebrating 50 years by completely transforming the park’s arrival experience. Explorer’s Reef tion and regional theme parks fireworks. ing services and then transport- opened on March 21 for the celebration kick-off, and it imme- in key markets across the U.S., In addition, the parks have ing them into the world of the diately immersed park guests into an undersea oasis. From the launched an 18-month, multi- launched a variety of guest com- sea as they pass under an iconic moment they enter the park, guests can connect with the sea property celebration of its 50- munications enhancements that and stunning wave,” said John through multiple touch pools featuring shark pups, rays, skates year milestone with a media include games, informational Reilly, president of SeaWorld and delicate little cleaner fish. AT/GARY SLADE party and the introduction of a apps and touch screens. San Diego. “The promise of Sea- newly themed entrance area at In San Diego, where the first World is delivered immediately, its founding San Diego location. SeaWorld opened its gates on giving our guests — especially The ambitious promotion, Mission Bay in March 1964, ex- kids — opportunities to connect called Sea of Surprises, includes clusive anniversary highlights with amazing animals as soon as special events and new shows more than a year in the making they enter the park.” at SeaWorld’s Orlando and San surround an immense wave Two new shaded Relaxation Antonio, Texas, parks. “Mada- sculpture at the entrance that Stations, a project partnership gascar Live! Operation: Vaca- is 30 feet tall and 100 feet long. between the park and Southwest tion” has debuted in Orlando, They include an efficiency-en- Airlines, allow guests to rest while a new ski show is thrilling hancing, concierge-style make- their feet and recharge their elec- guests in San Antonio. All three over of the ticketing area and the tronic devices. And SeaWorld parks now feature spontaneous complete transformation of the San Diego is commemorating its encounters with “animal ambas- inner entrance plaza into a color- history with more than a dozen sadors,” such as Magellanic pen- ful, three-acre, undersea-themed 4See SEAWORLD, page 35

Clockwise from top left: From 1964 to 1987, one of the most recognized icons of SeaWorld San Diego was the A-frame entrance; SeaWorld’s open- ing day on March 21, 1964 is depicted in this image. The park drew more than 400,000 guests that first year; Japa- nese Village was part of Sea- World when the park first opened in 1964 and SeaWorld trainers Julie Scardina (left) and Suzanne Morgan (right) starred with Clyde the Califor- nia sea lion (center) in one of SeaWorld’s most popular sea lion and otter shows, Spooky Kooky Castle, which ran from 1989 to 1991. COURTESY SEAWORLD SAN DIEGO May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 35 Left: To showcase SeaWorld’s SEAWORLD commitment to the environ- Continued from page 34 ment and passion for protect- Memory Markers containing ing the ocean, a series of giant sculptures (made from trash images of attractions that once collected in the oceans) are existed at different spots around on display like this gigantic the park. Tufted Puffin standing almost nine feet high. Right: The cool Mid-century reflections Sea Street Band plays a vari- After treating invited ety of music to excite guests. press and VIPs to a lavish hors The combination of brass and d’oeuvres-and-open bar pre- percussion keeps the energy view of Explorer’s Reef and the high as the band travels along new Shamu evening show the SeaWorld’s walkways inviting previous evening, SeaWorld an- guests to join the party. nounced its major anniversary COURTESY SEAWORLD for the media on the morning of Friday, March 21 — rolling out an hour-long, Web-streamed presentation of entertainment and executive speeches amiably hosted by ABC-TV soap opera star and personality Cameron Mathison. Highlights included a 50- year video countdown show- casing park and company milestones, including wildlife research and rescue. A particu- larly memorable moment came with a tribute to SeaWorld’s old- est employee, 78-year-old Charli Manzano, who was hired before the park first opened. She - cur rently works as a SeaWorld re- ceptionist. Jim Atchison, the affable Florida-based president and CEO of SeaWorld Parks & En- tertainment, took the (sea) lion’s share of the presentation time — thoroughly outlining the com- pany’s accomplishments and goals. “One of my favorite pieces from our historical archives is the first business plan for- …,” Atchison said before the crowd. “It pledged that the new park would have ‘a completely ATCHISON distinctive con- cept of presentation which will open a new dimension of human knowledge and understanding of the undersea world and its in- habitants. The result will be both educational and entertaining.’ “Fifty years later, this vision still lives at the heart of what we do…. We inspire, we educate and we motivate people to care about wild animals and wild places. And, as our world moves into the next half century, the knowledge and understanding our company creates by bring- ing humans into contact with marine animals will be more im- portant than ever.” Several family members of SeaWorld’s four founders — the original visionaries were George Millay, Milton Shedd, 4See SEAWORLD, page 36 36 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014

SeaWorld’s 50-year tide of fortune SEAWORLD Continued from page 35 SAN DIEGO, Calif. — When SeaWorld opened in 1964, it oc- cupied just 21 leased parkland acres along Mission Bay and had Ken Norris and David DeMott, 45 employees. Adult admission was $2.25, an annual pass was all UCLA graduates — were $4.25 and the first-year attendance was about 400,000. in attendance. The two young- Today, with adult admission priced at $84 and an annual pass est of Millay’s three surviving fetching $328, the now 190-acre park draws about 4.5 million visi- children, Chrislyn and Gavin, tors annually, employs 4,000 during peak season and reportedly offered some thoughts toAmuse - pays rent in the neighborhood of $14 million to the city each year ment Today about their late father, The following business highlights, provided by SeaWorld a 1994 International Association Parks & Entertainment, illustrate the growth and of Sea- of Amusement Parks and At- World San Diego and its parent company over half a century. tractions Hall of Fame inductee 1961: San Diego City Council approves 50-year lease to who also established the Wet ‘n’ Marine Park Corp., headed by George Millay, for a 21-acre park Wild water park brand and the Two of SeaWorld San Diego’s on Mission Bay. theme park now known as Six first families pose for the 1963: Mission Bay Research Foundation (later known Hubbs- Flags Magic Mountain in Valen- SeaWorld Research Institute) is established before park opens. AT camera during the park’s 1964: SeaWorld opens March 21; with an initial investment of cia, Calif. preview night. Above, sister $1.5 million, its attractions include Hawaiian Punch Village, Japa- Characterizing his dad as a and brother Chrislyn Millay nese Village, Lagoon Stadium, Saltwater Aquarium, Sea Grotto “strong provider” with Christian and Gavin Millay. Right, park and Theater of the Sea, with several dolphins and sea lions. values who believed in reading president John Reilly with 1965: Shamu becomes first on display. and education, Gavin Millay de- Char DeMotte 1966: Seal and Arena opens (expanded into Sea Lion scribed George as “a really kind- AT/GARY SLADE & Otter Stadium in 1982). hearted, understanding guy” 1967: Atlantis Restaurant and Bayside Skyride open. despite a very confident bearing in the state made news ahead of or rehabilitated more than 23,000 1968: Freshwater Aquarium and Water Fantasy Show both that made him somewhat intimi- the San Diego anniversary fes- marine animals. added. dating. tivities. SeaWorld’s international 1969: PSA Skytower opens. “If you were honest and SeaWorld, which has de- conservation partners include 1970: Tide Pools added; SeaWorld Ohio opens near Cleve- straightforward with him, he scribed the film as “propagan- the National Wildlife Federation, land (closes in 2001). would give you the world. If you da,” has hired a lobbyist and has The Nature Conservancy, World 1971: Whale Arena opens (later becomes Dolphin Stadium). weren’t, then you’d be out of his met privately with California Wildlife Fund and the Ocean 1972: Walrus exhibit opens. world very quickly,” said Gavin, lawmakers seeking to halt the Conservancy. In San Diego, Sea- 1973: exhibit added; SeaWorld Orlando opens. who worked as a parking lot 1975: Avian facility opens. proposed legislation (it’s pres- World provides support for The 1976: Captain Kids’ World opens; Harcourt Brace Jovanov- attendant at SeaWorld for two ently on hold). Living Coast Discovery Center, ich purchases all three parks for about $50 million. summers during his teens. “As The Southern California the San Diego Oceans Founda- 1977: Seal and Lion exhibit opens. an employee, as well, the only park and its parent company tion and the San Diego Audubon 1978: Shark exhibit debuts. other things he’d ask for were got a boost on March 18, when Society. 1983: opens. dedication and good, hard work. the San Diego City Council pro- SeaWorld Parks & Entertain- 1987: New five-million-gallon Shamu Stadium and new en- “He was very humble claimed March “Sea World San ment has created the SeaWorld trance place open. about all the great things he ac- Diego Anniversary Month.” & Busch Gardens Conservation 1988: First successful killer whale birth; SeaWorld San Antonio complished. And he was very Mayor Kevin Faulconer thanked Fund, a non-profit, private chari- opens. slow to take credit for anything the park for its wildlife educa- table foundation committed to 1989: Anheuser-Busch purchases SeaWorld parks and two ad- — saying he got lucky a lot and tion programs and the globally supporting wildlife and habitat ditional theme parks for $1.1 billion. attributing his success to others recognized species preservation conservation, research, educa- 1990: Forbidden Reef (bat rays and eels) opens. around him.” work of the nonprofit Hubbs- tion and animal rescue programs 1991: Lagoon Stadium expands and becomes water ski show. “We just viewed SeaWorld Sea World Research Institute worldwide. 1992: Shark Encounter opens. as a cool place to go,” added (established in 1963, before the To spotlight further the 1994: Mission Bermuda Triangle opens (replaces Nautilus Am- Chrislyn Millay, who recalled park opened), while lauding its company’s environmental com- phitheater). being wowed as a child in the contributions as a top regional mitment, a series of giant sea life 1995: Shamu’s Happy Harbor kids’ play area unveiled. 1960s by the park’s Tide Pools 1997: opens (replaces Mission Bermuda Triangle). employment (93,000 locals have sculptures are being displayed 1998: Dolphin Interaction Program inaugurated; release of and Skytower and credited her worked at the park since its de- throughout the SeaWorld parks. J.J. the rescued grey whale. father with steering her toward a but) and tourism force. It commissioned an environ- 1999: ride and Shipwreck Reef Café open. career in advertising. “We knew “Over the last five decades, mental art group, The Washed 2000: Pirates 4D attraction opens; Oiled Wildlife Care Center our dad was connected with the we’ve inspired more than 156 Ashore Project, for large-scale opens. park, but we didn’t realize at million guests, educated more works created from ocean de- 2001: Cirque de la Mer show debuts. that time that he was creating a than nine million students bris. The art pieces symbolize 2002: California Coastal Commission approves SeaWorld mas- legacy.” about marine animals and en- the urgent need to preserve ter plan for expansion. vironmental stewardship, and ocean habitats. 2004: ride opens. Emphasizing conservation fostered critically important re- At SeaWorld’s San Di- 2005: New sea lion and otter show, Deep, Deep Trouble, de- SeaWorld’s anniversary search studies with animals at ego flagship park, the opening buts. media event included clear and our park,” the company said in of Explorer’s Reef is a fitting, 2006: New Shamu show, Believe, debuts. detailed messaging that was, in one of several statements issued full-circle representation of the 2007: New Shamu night show, Shamu Rocks, debuts. part, a response to controversy. relative to the proclamation. company’s unique success in 2008: Anheuser-Busch (including Busch Entertainment Corp.’s Over the past year, Sea- “There is no organization more combining entertainment with 10 parks) acquired by Belgian brewer InBev for $52 billion. World Parks & Entertainment passionately committed to the conservation and education. 2009: Blackstone Group buys SeaWorld and Busch Gardens has endured pressure as a result parks from Anheuser-Busch InBev for more than $2 billion. physical, mental and social care “It’s the high point of an 2010: Blue Horizon dolphin show debuts. of a documentary feature, Black- and well-being of animals than unprecedented expansion of 2011: Turtle Reef opens; new Shamu show, One Ocean, de- fish, which conveyed a negative SeaWorld.” capital attraction investments buts. depiction of SeaWorld’s orca care SeaWorld also used its at SeaWorld,” said the park’s 2012: Manta roller coaster opens. and training program. While the March 21 anniversary media John Reilly. “With Turtle Reef, 2013: Company purchases former Knott’s in San Di- company president Atchison event to underscore its long, the Manta roller coaster, new ego suburb of Chula Vista and re-brands it Aquatica, SeaWorld’s tackled the film’s charges head- impressive and singular history shows and events, and now, a sister water park; Madagascar Live! show debuts; private equity on in an open letter published of conservation, research and transforming arrival experience firm Blackstone takes SeaWorld public, becomes largest share- by several media outlets (AT, wildlife rescue. It is one of the and animal attraction, SeaWorld holder; SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment expresses interest in in- March 2014), a California assem- world’s foremost zoological or- is well-positioned for its next 50 ternational expansion. blyman’s subsequent introduc- ganizations and a global leader years.” 2014: Explorer’s Reef opens at SeaWorld San Diego; 50th an- tion of a bill to ban live perfor- in animal welfare, training, hus- •www..com/ niversary activities launched company-wide. mances, captive breeding and bandry and veterinary care. Ad- celebration import / export of killer whales ditionally, it has rescued and / May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 37

CARNIVALlights COMPILED: Pam Sherborne, [email protected]

Clifford “Rip” Rippetoe will serve at least two more years as CEO of the board at $250,000 a year. The board renewed Rippetoe’s contract effective July 1, the Courier-Journal reported. He’s been working since the beginning of 2013 on an 18-month contract. Dr. Mark Lynn, chairman of the fair board, said the board was impressed with Rippetoe’s “ability to enhance The 2014 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo set an abundance of records during its March business, improve our financials and increase efficiencies.” 4-23 run, including an attendance record drawing more than 2.48 million fairgoers. It drew • 1,377,416 fans to the rodeo and concerts, representing a 5.3 percent increase over the The South Dakota Legislature has given final approval same 20 shows in 2013. COURTESY HOUSTON LIVESTOCK SHOW AND RODEO to a measure that would further regulate amusement rides. The bill’s sponsor, Sen. Al Novstrup of Aberdeen, says the bill would impose regulations similar to those in other Old records broken, new ones set again states and is supported by industry trade groups. Novstrup is president of Thunder Road, a chain of family fun parks in at Houston Livestock Show/Rodeo the Dakotas. Mobile amusement rides, such as those that travel from STORY: Pam Sherborne Here are some of those in the list of the show’s top 20 state to state, already must have insurance. The bill would [email protected] highlights: paid rodeo attendance records. require those rides to have yearly certified inspections and •Total 2014 attendance •More than $34 million daily inspections by operators. Rides fixed in one place also HOUSTON, Texas — reached 2,485,721 visitors, was made in food concessions, would have to be inspected daily. Houston is red hot. The oil in- setting a 20-day attendance also setting a record. About $16 • dustry is booming. The hous- record. The 2013 attendance million was made at Aramark For the first time, New York state is looking for one ven- ing market is booming. The record of 2,506,238 visitors in- concessions (Reliant Park’s dor to operate all of its year-round restaurants at the New service sector is booming. cluded a 21-day event. concessionaire); $8.7 at Rodeo- York State Fairgrounds, Syracuse. And, apparently, the Hous- •RodeoHouston paid at- Houston in-house concessions; Those venues include the Empire Room and banquet ton Livestock Show and Rodeo tendance reached a record and $8.4 million at the carnival facility in the Art and Home Center, the Somerset Room continues to reap the benefits 1,377,416 fans, representing a concessions (a 9.15 percent in- and banquet facility, also in the Art & Home Center, plus from the growing sprawl. The 5.3 percent increase over the crease over the gross in 2013) permanent restaurants spots in the Center of Progress and 2014 annual event did what it same 20 shows in 2013. •Ray Cammack Shows, Horticulture buildings. has become very adept at do- •Nine of the 2014 Rodeo- the midway provider, grossed The winning vendor will get a five-year contract for the ing, breaking records. Houston performances landed $16,186,511 in ride and game four restaurants and the banquet rooms, according to the tickets, a 9.33 percent increase request for proposals issued by the state Department of over 2013. Agriculture and Markets, which oversees the fair. There’s MIDWAY FAST FACTS COO Leroy Shafer said the an option for a five-year renewal. Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Houston Livestock Show has The contract would allow the winning vendor to run • There were more than 2.4 million total riders been on a growth curve for the those restaurants year-round, for weddings, trade shows • More than 1.5 million players played midway games last five or six years. or other events, and during the 12-day fair itself, set for • The La Grande Ferris Wheel saw 75,000 riders “Actually, it really started Aug.21-Sept. 1, 2014. • 50,000 visitors rode the carousel after the 2008 economic down- • • The three most popular rides were the Sky Ride, turn,” Shafer said. “People Four people who were injured in the accident Zamperla; Windstorm, SDC and Euroslide, Euroslide.com stayed at home and came at the 2013 North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh, have hired —Source: Ray Cammack Shows here.” Willie Gary as their attorney and plan to file a $150 million 4See HOUSTON, page 38 lawsuit against the owners of the ride, according to a news release. A news release said Gary is representing Kisha Gorham, Shafer to change HLSR roles in Oct. Anthony Gorham, Justen Hunter and Shykema Dempsey. HOUSTON, Texas — In 1974, the Hous- table pulled in here by a John Deere tractor. The four were injured in October, when the Vortex start- ton Livestock Show and Rodeo grossed $2 He used the same PA system that was being ed unexpectedly and threw some of them off the ride. million. used for the ball games. The news release said the lawsuit is being filed against That was COO Leroy Shafer’s first show. “There were six fulltime employees,” he Powers Great American Midways and Family Attractions Amusement LLC. He had been hired the year before in public said. “When I was hired, I was the seventh. • relations. Now we have 112 fulltime employees.” Hamburgers on doughnuts. Turkey legs bigger than The 1974 event had 100 Shafer said the size and scope of the show balloons. Battered and deep-fried candy bars. volunteers, handed out 20 has been greatly enlarged and improved over Of all the overindulgent food at the Miami-Dade Coun- scholarships, had a rodeo at- the years. The presentations in all areas have ty Fair, Miami, Fla., March 13-30, none stood out more than tendance of 411,513, and had grown. State-of-the-art sound systems re- the world’s largest hot dog. a general attendance total of placed the PA systems years ago. Weighing in at 125.5 pounds — the naked dog tipped 671,428. He feels there is certainly room for more the scale at 51 pounds; the rest of the heft came from a And, as Shafer looks back Shafer growth. And, he plans to be there over the gargantuan bun and gallons of condiments — the dog was at that first year, numbers of next years to not only make sure that hap- cooked for three hours on a 100-foot mobile grill that trav- this year’s event come easily to his mind. pens but also to enjoy it. els from fair to fair on the bed of a 27-ton tractor-trailer. Some of those include: the 2014 event grossed Yet, Shafer does plan to transition his po- Brett Enright, founder and CEO of Juicy’s Outlaw $130 million, approximately, in operational sition of COO in October of this year. Grill, already holds the Guinness record for largest commer- revenue, worked with 28,500 volunteers, will His status will change to emeritus and he cially available hamburger. His 777-pound behemoth burger hand out 737 scholarships, had a rodeo atten- will workclosely with the new COO for most costs $5,000 and can be ordered with two days’ notice. dance of 1,377,416, and a general attendance likely the next couple of years to ensure a Like Juicy’s burger, the world’s largest commercially of 2,485,721. smooth conversion. available hot dog is available to order for your next wedding, “In 1974 Elvis played here,” Shafer said. “I will move from the COO responsibili- bar mitzvah or dinner party, a relative bargain at $1,000. “He performed on a 16-by-20-foot turning 4See SHAFER, page 38 38 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014 HOUSTON In looking at the growth using texting, email blasts, the and attention of our volunteers SHAFER Continued from page 37 of the city and the growth of show’s mobile app, its website and staff,” said Joel Cowley, Continued from page 37 the show, Shafer said numbers and social media. show president. “So many Added to that, Shafer said prove that the show is engag- “We also had an increase different facets of the Show – ties to advising and consult- the growth Houston is current- ing Houston’s new population. in our sponsorship revenue,” horse show, livestock show, ing,” he said. “I will work in ly experiencing has been the He said about 80 percent of the Shafer said. “Our total sponsor- rodeo, carnival, music, shop- the areas of marketing, en- greatest factor. event’s attendance comes from ship revenue was $14,143,224, ping and dining — provided a tertainment, media relations, “Our carnival has set a re- the greater Houston metropoli- a 14.1 percent increase over unique combination for family crisis management and on cord for the past seven years,” tan area. 2013.” fun and created an overall suc- other special projects as they he said. “All our auditing is And, during the last five to Ray Cammack Shows pro- cess.” arise. not totally complete but we six years, more than 60 percent vided 80 rides on the midway Shafer will begin his transi- “But, the transition of know that we went over $130 of the event’s attendance is be- this year. tion from the position of COO leadership will be at the top million [in seven years] in op- ing reached by new media in- “The visitor experience at in October, 2014, but plans to as far as importance,” he erational revenues. No other stead of the traditional media the 2014 Houston Livestock remain at the Houston Live- said. event or fair in the world is in such as television and news- Show and Rodeo was excep- stock Show and Rodeo for As these changes near, that stratosphere.” papers. The marketing staff is tional, thanks to the dedication years to come. Shafer feels the leadership structure currently be used at CARNIVAL the event will stay the same. “Right now, we have MARKET PLACE a CEO, COO, and general manager,” he said. “We also have five executive directors that head up the major divi- Gull Wing Industries sions of the show. I think this Working with the Carnival leadership structure will re- Industry since 1989 main the same.” Contact us at: www.gull-wing.com Shafer stays away from the word retirement, because that isn’t his plan. He expects to be at the Houston Live- Pack-Man 175 kw or 250 kw stock Show and Rodeo for Quiet Power–Tractor or Trailer Mounted years to come and he is look- ing forward to his new roles. Shafer directed the mar- keting and presentation of 309 N.E. 1st Street P.O. Box 128 Alta, IA 51002 the music concerts when he GFlex 400 Amp Toll Free: 800-838-1482 Fax: 712-200-1936 first arrived at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Over the years, he was actively involved in the de- sign of the new Reliant Sta- dium and Reliant Center. He has been active in local youth and community efforts, and served on numerous commit- tees representing the show. He was instrumental in developing a series of sur- P.O. Box 238 veys and computer programs Merino, CO. 80741 to analyze the audience draw and customer satisfaction quotients for concert artists 800-634-6097 970-522-7515 Fax: 970-522-2902 at the show. Those programs, [email protected] www.wisdomrides.com rewritten and refined many times, still serve as a basis for signing show talent. Shafer received a bach- elor’s degree in agricultural journalism from Texas A&M University and a master’s de- gree in technical journalism from Iowa State University. He served in the U.S. Army (active and reserve) from 1969 to 1989. He com- pleted one tour of duty as a helicopter pilot with the 12th Combat Aviation Group, Republic of Vietnam (1970- 1971). He commanded the 75th Maneuver Area Com- mand Aviation Detachment in Houston from 1981-1986. Keep our carnival and fair industry strong! —Pam Sherborne Buy products and services from these suppliers. May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39 40 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014

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Flying ScootersTM Tilt-A-Whirl TM May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 41 BUSINESS & CLASSIFIEDS MarketWatch — Page 44 / Disneyland’s Big Thunder Mountain reopens after massive rehab — Page 46 Palace Entertainment acquires South Florida’s Miami Seaquarium NEWPORT BEACH, Ca- Fernando Eiroa, Palace owns the property. County lif. — Festival Fun Parks, Entertainment’s president parks officials are completing LLC dba Palace Entertain- and CEO, comments, “Palace a review of the proposed ac- ment, announced on March Entertainment is excited to quisition and are expected to 28 that it has signed an agree- be adding such a premier en- present their findings to the ment for the acquisition of tertainment and educational board of county commission- Miami Seaquarium in South destination to our collection ers for approval of the trans- Florida. of family parks. We under- action in the coming weeks. Miami Seaquarium is stand the commitment that Miami Seaquarium is a the longest continuously op- Miami Seaquarium has to family-oriented marine-life erating in the wildlife conservation, com- park open to the public 365 United States. The park has munity involvement and days a year that provides grown steadily over the past their dedication to both edu- visitors with a greater un- half century and today offers cate and entertain guests.” derstanding and apprecia- eight different marine ani- “Palace Entertainment tion for marine life through mal shows and presentations has an incredible record of shows, presentations and each day and provides a fun- theme park success,” said The Miami Seaquarium is a 38-acre oceanarium located on marine-life exhibits. Miami the island of Virginia Key in Biscayne Bay, Miami-Dade Coun- filled mix of exhibits, shows, Andrew Hertz, president & Seaquarium is an accredited ty, Florida and is located near downtown Miami. Founded in attractions, food and shop- general manager of Miami member of the Alliance of 1955, it is recognized as the oldest oceanarium in the United ping opportunities. Miami Seaquarium. “We are excit- Parks and States. COURTESY MIAMI SEAQUARIUM Seaquarium, which attracts ed to be joining our 58 years Aquariums, an international more than 500,000 visitors of heritage with the Palace and Miami Seaquarium, and many years to come.” organization committed to each year, is recognized as Entertainment family of most important, a wonder- Miami Seaquarium is the care and conservation of South Florida’s most popular parks. This is a great fit be- ful opportunity for the com- located on Virginia Key in marine mammals. gated attraction. tween Palace Entertainment munity to enjoy the park for Miami-Dade County, which

Mall of America announces expansion Pin Stack bowling to anchor new complex BLOOMINGTON, Minn. — Mall of America, the na- tion’s largest retail and entertainment destination, Morten- , Texas — West design duo Coeval Studios, son, a U.S.-based construction and development services Plano will now be home to whose work is peppered company, Hotel Development LLC, an enterprise of the a unique dining and enter- throughout the DFW restau- Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, and the city of tainment destination, Pin- rant landscape. Patrons can Bloomington, Minn. recently announced the beginning of Stack, with an anticipated expect a modern, attractive a $325 million expansion project during a groundbreaking opening of late winter 2014. and forward aesthetic with event. Entertainment Properties bold finishes, inviting light- The expansion will include a 342-room JW Marriott ho- Group, Inc. has purchased ing, and a user-friendly lay- tel, office tower, high-end retailers, new dining options, a seven acres of land at the out with discreet separation tourist welcome center and large event space. An exten- Dallas North Tollway and Entertainment Properties between dining and enter- sion of the Mall on all three levels on the north side, it is the Windhaven Pkwy to create Group. “We are thrilled to be tainment. In a concerted ef- most significant construction project at the property since a 50,000 square-foot venue adding the PinStack brand fort to align with corporate opening in 1992. Completion is scheduled for fall 2015. which will feature a res- to our portfolio. Buying and and business needs, onsite “This is a major milestone for Mall of America,” said taurant, full-sized bowling developing this land in West tech-forward meeting spaces Paul Ghermezian, chief operating officer for Triple Five lanes, private lanes available Plano for our flagship Pin- will be available. Worldwide. “For more than 20 years, it has been our dream to book for events and an ar- Stack marks our first foray Based in Dallas, Texas, to increase the size of the mall, firmly establishing it as a ray of indoor games and at- into the urban core and rep- Entertainment Properties world renowned attraction.” tractions. resents the start of a new Group operates five enter- “Mall of America is an iconic retail and entertainment Staking claim in West chapter that will include tainment venues located in destination known around the world,” said Tom Lander, vice Plano, which is quickly be- future developments of this Texas, New Mexico, and Col- president at Mortenson Development. “We are pleased to coming an entertainment nature.” orado. The company is plan- be the development and construction partner for this im- and nightlife district of the Entertainment Proper- ning a national expansion portant expansion.” DFW Metroplex, is a bold ties Group, Inc. has commis- and is currently in negotia- and purposeful move by sioned prominent restaurant tions for multiple locations.

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HERSHEY, Pa. — Ninety one members of the Pennsyl- vania Amusement Parks Asso- ciation (PAPA) met March 10 and 11 for their annual spring meeting at Hershey Lodge. Eleven of the 17 member Penn- sylvania parks participated. There were 14 other member PAPA launches new website organizations in attendance LANSDALE, Pa. — It’s been seven years since the Penn- including manufacturers and sylvania Amusement Park Association (PAPA) had anything suppliers. done to their website in regard to content and presenta- Day one started with the The 2014 PAPA officers, shown left to right, are: Jeff Davis, tion. The site was broken and had no support. PAPA Board of Directors meet- vice president, Sesame Place; Brian Bossuyt, president, Cam- The new site was developed by Next Generation Web ing followed by a reception elback Mountain Waterpark and Carl Crider, past president/ Technologies of Lansdale, Pa. Company President, Roger and banquet that evening. It chairman, DelGrossos’s Amusement Park. Hammond said the initial work started in January, based was hosted by Brian Bossuyt, AT/B. DEREK SHAW on a referral. “I did the Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters director of sales and Marketing website a few years back. They were happy with my work,” of Camelbeach Mountain Wa- said Hammond. terpark in Tannersville, Pa. (in One of the goals was to create a more interactive site the Poconos). He is the current for all 82 members (amusement parks, manufacturers and president of PAPA, starting others). Another goal is to get Pennsylvania tourists to take his second year of a two year a look. “We want to create traffic and get regular citizens term. Retired Hersheypark to come to the site,” said Hammond. Park Vice President, Franklin The home page of the site, www.paamusementparks. Shearer, led the invocation. He com, features a Pennsylvania map which clearly and easily said he was filling in for Bud- shows where all member parks are located along with the dy Knoebel, chaplin of this major highways that lead to their location. group. “And heaven knows The 17 member parks now have the opportunity to this group needs a chaplin!” post their important dates and events throughout the sea- he quipped. Keynote speaker son. An event calendar lists opening dates. Special event was Rob Fulton, president weekends announcements, coupons and other special of- of the Pennsylvania Associa- fers are another feature of the new site. tion of Travel & Tourism. Top Member parks all have an icon with basic content. The priorities of this organization PAPA website committee consists of Hammond, Janine include the establishment of Rebbie, PTC, who serves as chair and content gatekeep- a Tourism Partnership, a Pub- A trio from Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom were in at- er, Brian Bossuyt-Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark; Brian lic/Private partnership, local tendance. They are, l to r: Keith Koepke, director of Op- Gorman-Waldameer; Mike Fehnel- Dorney Park and Jeff room tax standards across the erations, Brad Nesland, vice president of Maintenance & Davis- Sesame Place. state and support of a post La- Construction and Mike Fehnel, vice president and general Members should submit submissions to Janine Rebbie bor Day school start. manager. Fehnel was elected as second vice president, to fill at: [email protected] Day two was reserved for the unexpired term of Jason McClure who is now at Cedar The Pennsylvania Amusement Parks Association was the annual breakfast mem- Point. AT/B. DEREK SHAW formed in 1935 by a group of amusement park owners and bership meeting. Association Company President, Roger Maintenance at Hersheypark managers. Its goals are to promote the industry by gather- business included reports in Hammond, made the presen- covered the entire gamut. Top- ing and disseminating information, secure the interchange various aspects of the indus- tation. The new site is in the ics included: lifeguard staff- of knowledge among members relating to better manage- try: legislative, Amusement testing stages at the moment. ing, common ADA opportuni- ment and methods of doing business, upholding a good Ride Safety Advisory Board, Now on-line [see sidebar], ties, locker usage, employee public image, and by united action, exert influence upon Ride Safety Seminar, scholar- one feature will give mem- recognition program, early legislation to promote the best interest of the industry. ships, water park and human ber parks the opportunity to and late season staffing, new Their annual spring membership meeting offers an op- resource issues. post their important dates and “hot” retail items and guest portunity to meet and discuss common problems and chal- Other business included events throughout the season. scams across multiple parks. lenges and to hear speakers on topics of vital interest to all the election of Mike Fehnel, as The association also award- This was the 79th Spring members. In addition, a summer meeting at a member fa- second vice president. Fehnel ed four, one thousand dollar Meeting of the Pennsylva- cility affords a chance to meet fellow members in a relaxed is general manager of Dorney scholarships this year to de- nia Amusement Parks Asso- setting. The 2014 summer meeting will be held at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom serving park employees who ciation. It was formed in 1935 Park & Wildwater Kingdom, Allentown, Pa. July 14 and 15. who is serving the unexpired are students. with R.L. Plarr from Dorney Next Generation Web Technologies began operation term of Jason McClure, who is Upon conclusion of the Park serving as the first presi- in 1981 as Next Generation Software. They began with now at Cedar Point in the gen- event, 40 attendees partici- dent. In 1946, roller coaster the development of education and business applications eral manager capacity. pated in an open roundtable designer Herbert P. Schmeck for desktop and Network systems. In 1999, Next Genera- The morning session pro- discussion at Hersheypark from Philadelphia Toboggan tion began developing and converting applications for the vided attendees with a look at Service Center. In the three was president. Internet and today work exclusively in development of the new website being devel- years the informal meeting The 2014 Summer Meet- websites and web based applications. They have also de- oped by Next Generation Web has been held, this was by far ing will be held at Dorney veloped community based directories; local business and Technology of Lansdale, Pa. the highest attended one. The Park & Wildwater Kingdom, restaurant directories and focus on local online marketing. for the Pennsylvania Amuse- discussion, coordinated by Allentown, Pa. July 14 and 15. —B. Derek Shaw ment Park Association. Gary Chubb, senior director of May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 43 NEAAPA inducts three into Hall of Fame STORY: Ron Gustafson Special to Amusement Today

STURBRIDGE, Mass. — John and Elizabeth Bowen, owners of the former , Lunenburg, Mass., and Robert Harkins, a member of the management team at , Agawam, Mass., are the newest mem- bers to be inducted into the New England Association of Amusement Parks and Attrac- tions (NEAAPA) Hall of Fame. The ceremony took place Above, John and Elizabeth The 2014 NEAAPA officers, as seen left to right: President during NEAAPA’s 101st An- Bowen speak during their accep- David Sugrue, Ocean Beach Park, New London, Conn.; First nual Meeting at the Sturbridge tance of NEAAPA Hall of Fame Vice President Ryan DeMaria, , Salem, Host Hotel and Conference induction. Left, Robert Harkins N.H.; Second Vice President Dorothy Lewis, Fun Station Center here on Tuesday, April thanks the NEAAPA HOF com- Entertainment Group, Danbury, Conn.; Treasurer Charlene 1. mittee for his 2014 induction. Conway, Carousel Family Fun Centers, Fairhaven, Mass. and COURTESY RON GUSTAFSON/ Secretary Ed Hodgdon, Funtown Splashtown USA, Saco, NEAAPA . COURTESY RON GUSTAFSON/NEAAPA Robert Harkins created the Award for “peak perfection in Award. 13 for its annual summer meet- groundwork for the food ser- customer service.” The award Prior to the dinner, NEAA- ing at Southwick’s Zoo, Men- vice division at Six Flags New includes a $500 scholarship. PA staged a number of work- don, Mass. England. He started working •Bud Selmi, Story Land, shops as well as a vendor prod- NEAAPA is one of the na- at the facility when it was Riv- Glen, N.H., Alan E. Ramsay uct showcase. tion’s oldest amusement park erside Park – living adjacent to Safety Award. The organization will hold associations, dating back to the John Bowen was born into the popular attraction. •Melissa Plante, CLM En- a spring supervisor seminar in 1920s. For more about the asso- the park business in 1944. His His accomplishments in- tertainment Group, Woonsock- May at Canobie Lake Park, Sa- ciation visit www.neaapa.com. first jobs in the park included clude the ability to introduce et, R.I., Meritorious Service lem, N.H., and gather on Aug. hiding Easter eggs and wa- branded and non-branded con- tering flowers. During high cepts, innovation of new food school he advanced to sweep- products and equipment and ing the midway and emptying coordinate large capital expan- trash barrels into the bed of a sions. dump truck. Robert served as NEAAPA He took a break from the president in 1984 and 1985. business and obtained an un- More than 30 have been in- dergraduate Masters in Busi- ducted into the prestigious hall ness Administration degree. since it was formed in 1998. He also worked for General Others honored Electric and General Tire & Numerous other awards Rubber Co. in the Washing- were presented during the din- ton D.C. area before receiving ner/meeting, attended by 85 a law degree. He served as NEAAPA members. the park president from 1975 Justine Brewer, NEAAPA to 1998, splitting his time be- Awards Committee chair, pre- tween Whalom Park and the sented the following: family law firm. •Six Flags New Eng- During his years associ- land, Paragon Award for “un- ated with NEAAPA, he served equaled excellence in graphic on the board of directors as promotion.” well as secretary and presi- •Alyssa Brown, Quassy dent. He also served with the Amusement and Waterpark, International Association of Middlebury, Conn., Pinnacle Amusement Parks and Attrac- tions (IAAPA) on several com- mittees and workshop panels. Elizabeth was also very involved with NEAAPA and IAAPA. She served on NEAA- PA’s board of directors and as secretary/treasurer for sev- eral year and chaired IAAPA’s convention awards commit- tee. Elizabeth handled Wha- lom’s promotions and public relations for 20 years. The park closed in 2000. During his 59-year career, 44 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014 BUSINESS WATCH MARKETWATCH Holiday World names agency of record SANTA CLAUS, Ind. — Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari has named Williams Randall Marketing in Indianapolis as the park’s agen- COMPANY SYMBOL MARKET PRICE HIGH LOW 4/11/14 52-Week 52-Week cy of record. The agency wrote and produced Holiday World’s three new television commercials, which will air in a variety of markets start- Apollo Global Management APO NYSE 27.49 36.51 20.86 ing in late April. Williams Randall’s team also designed the park’s new brochure, billboards, print and radio ads. The Blackstone Group BX NYSE 30.14 35.38 19.15 Six Flags named to InformationWeek Elite 100 Merlin Entertainments Group/ MERL LSE 359.30 368.60 3.20 GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — Six Flags Entertainment Corpo- Legoland ration, announced on April 2 that it has been named to the 2014 Cedar Fair, L.P. FUN NYSE 48.99 54.69 38.28 InfomationWeek Elite 100 — a list of the top business technology innovators in the United States. Comcast Corp./ “It is an honor to be named to the InformationWeek top 500 for CMCSA NASDAQ 47.96 55.28 38.75 NBCUniversal Media the fourth year in a row, and our team is ecstatic to be selected as one of the elite 100 for 2014,” said Michael Israel, chief information officer Comcast Corp./ CMCSK NASDAQ 47.36 53.10 37.34 for Six Flags. NBCUniversal Media This is InformationWeek’s 26th year identifying and honoring the The Walt Disney Company DIS NYSE 77.01 83.65 58.84 nation’s most innovative users of information technology. For 2014, the assessment was narrowed to a more elite 100 organizations. Fuji Kyoko Co., Ltd. 9010 TYO 984.00 1289.00 716.00 Six Flags, Unilever announce partnership GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — Six Flags Entertainment Corporation Haicahang Holdings Ltd. 2255HK SEHK 1.65 2.27 1.56 and Unilever, one of the world’s leading suppliers of food, home and personal care products, announced on March 20 a strategic partner- Leofoo Development Co. TW:2705 TSEC 11.65 14.90 11.40 ship, naming Unilever Ice Cream the official frozen novelties and hard scooped ice cream for all Six Flags theme parks in the U.S. MGM Resorts International MGM NYSE 23.91 28.75 11.72 During the five-year agreement, Unilever Ice Cream will have exclusive marketing and sales rights for all novelty products includ- SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. SEAS NYSE 29.99 39.65 27.48 ing Good Humor, Magnum Ice Cream Bars, Fruttare Frozen Fruit Bars, Klondike and Popsicle brand products, as well as Breyers hard Shenzhen Overseas Chinese Town 000069 SZSE 4.68 6.77 4.30 scooped ice cream. The partnership also includes in-park brand ex- Co., Ltd. (OCT) posure of Unilever ice cream products through digital and static sig- Six Flags Entertainment Co. SIX NYSE 38.87 42.94 31.86 nage via the Six Flags Media Networks and branded patio locations throughout the parks. Tivoli A/S DK:TIV CSE 3023.00 3080.00 2880.00 AIR selected as preferred FEC insurance provider ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The International Association of Amuse- VRL ASX 7.05 8.05 4.91 ment Parks and Attractions, (IAAPA), in conjunction with the IAAPA Family Entertainment Center (FEC) Committee, selected Amusement STOCK PRICES ABOVE ARE GENERALLY QUOTED IN THE FOREIGN Insurance Resources (AIR), a division of the insurance brokerage CURRENCY IN WHICH THE COMPANY IS LOCATED firm Britton Gallagher, as its new preferred FEC insurance program provider. The IAAPA-endorsed insurance program, AIR Elite, is man- Worldwide Markets: ASX, Australian Securities Exchange; CSE, Copenhagen Stock Exchange; LSE, London Stock Exchange; NYSE, New York Stock Exchange; NASDAQ, National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations; SEHK, Hong Kong Stock aged by AIR and exclusively available to IAAPA North American FEC Exchange; SZSE, Shenzhen Stock Exchange; TSEC, Taiwan Stock Excange, Corp.; TYO/TSE, Tokyo Stock Exchange members. The program is designed to enhance safety within the FEC —SOURCES: Bloomberg.com; Wall Street Journal industry and provide reasonable insurance premiums for IAAPA mem- bers. IAAPA has offered a similar group liability program to its FEC DIESEL PRICES members since 2007. In 2013, IAAPA issued a request for proposal for a group liability Region As of Change from insurance program provider. The IAAPA FEC Committee reviewed the (U.S.) 04/07/14 year ago submissions and interviewed prospective partners before choosing East Coast $4.075 $0.066 AIR. Midwest $3.942 -$0.014 “We are pleased to begin a new partnership with Amusement In- Gulf Coast $3.793 -$0.095 surance Resource,” said IAAPA FEC Committee Chair Gregg Borman. “AIR Elite provides IAAPA’s FEC members with affordable, compre- Mountain $3.955 $0.056 hensive insurance coverage and additional educational and consulta- West Coast $3.894 -$0.129 tive services.” California $4.056 -$0.140 CenterEdge Software completes Mexico install CURRENCY MEXICO CITY, Mexico — Entertainment facility solutions provider On 04/11/14 $1 USD = CenterEdge Software, Roxboro, N.C., recently completed its first 0.7211 EURO ticketing and capacity management system installation in Mexico. 0.5956 GBP (British Pound) The company finished the week-long on-site installation for Sky 101.71 JPY (Japanese Yen) Zone Indoor Trampoline Park — creator of the world’s first all-tram- poline, walled playing court — in February, with the facility going live 0.8782 CHF (Swiss Franc) March 3 in Naucalpan, a suburb of Mexico City. 1.0621 AUD (Australian Dollar) The CenterEdge team included a Spanish-speaking staffer who 1.0897 CAD (Canadian Dollar) helped with training on the waiver kiosk, individual and group point- of-sale, and capacity management solutions. Through the smiles, the seasons & the miles – Financing everything for the outdoor amusement industry since 2000. Prairie Financial The outdoor amusement Division of Boulevard Bank Paul Muller [email protected] Mark Walker A division of [email protected] Wade Muller blvdbank.com/outdoor-amusement [email protected] 816-554-3863 May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 45 46 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014

New track, audio, LED lighting for Disneyland classic Big Thunder Mountain Railroad ‘rumbles’ anew after rehab

STORY: Dean Lamanna [email protected]

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Un- dertaking the renovation of a much-loved ride that has thrilled more than 225 million guests in 35 years isn’t just a matter of making repairs and enhancing technology. It’s a responsibility that requires the careful preservation of classic elements that have created in- delible memories across gen- erations. Such was the task facing After six years of planning and refurbishment, including a 14-month closure Disneyland’s in-house attrac- while two-thirds of its track was replaced (left) and a slew of technological tions maintenance team six and cosmetic upgrades were performed (above), Disneyland’s 1979-built years ago when Big Thunder classic coaster Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (below) resumed thrilling park Mountain Railroad, the park’s guests in mid-March. iconic 19th century / Wild West AT/GARY SLADE AND -themed runaway mine train coaster, started showing signs of middle age. “The ride was built in 1979 and was almost 30 years old when we started planning the renovations,” noted David “An old version of soft- Smith, program manager of ware that we had written was facility asset management at difficult to update,” said Smith, the Disneyland Resort. “From “and the hardware it ran on a maintenance perspective, we had no more room or memory were going out and making left. We needed new comput- repairs to the track more fre- ers, and we needed to write quently — because it was just new programming for the com- fatigued. It was a piece of metal puters to bring it up to date.” that was vibrating 16 hours a The upgraded rolling stock day, 365 days a year. is identical to the original; its “We have engineers who restraint and safety systems are watch that stuff very closely. unchanged. The coaster’s pas- When they say it’s time to re- senger capacity also remains place it, that it has reached its the same, as does the ride’s useful life span, that’s when peak speed of about 28 mph — you start designing and fabri- although since its mid-March cating a new track.” reintroduction, it has been run- To that end, Smith’s team ning a bit faster than previously. ordered the replacement of ap- “The goal was not to in- efficient LED lighting). Much of away the classic elements.” sparking fuses along the craggy proximately two-thirds — or crease the peak speed,” Smith the manmade mountain’s Utah He cited the walls and an explosive burst of half a mile — of the coaster’s said. “We did pick up a nomi- desert-inspired “rockwork” Ridge (officially Big Thunder) “smoke.” steel rails. nal amount of speed because has been repainted and anima- miniature town portion of the “Our explosive new finale of Port Colquitlam, British Co- of the smoothness and stiffness tronic critters have been rebuilt. ride as an example. is a real high point,” he said. lumbia, Canada, which previ- of the new track. That prob- But the overall look of the at- “Some of those buildings “That’s my favorite part. But ously retracked Disneyland’s ably will decrease over time as traction, though “refreshed,” is dated back to Disneyland’s old, also, just refreshing all the au- Space Mountain, fabricated the the trains wear in and the track virtually the same as longtime original [1956] Mine Train ride, dio and lighting really helps new track. wears a little bit and gets a little Disneyland fans have always but they were not in a salvage- you see and hear and feel the “The only areas we didn’t more flex in it.” known it. able condition. So we really ride’s story the way it was in- do were the three lift hills and For additional practical- “We took great pains to went to great lengths to make tended.” the track coming out of the ity and efficiency, the coaster make sure that Big Thunder sure that we photo-document- For Smith, who has been maintenance bay into the sta- station’s unloading platform Mountain Railroad came back ed all the graphics and all the with the Disneyland Resort tion,” Smith said. “Those are was expanded by several feet exactly the way it was,” said props and everything that was for 13 years and first rode Big the low-energy, slow-speed ar- and a holding area was added Smith, pointing out the delicate out there, and we did laser Thunder Mountain Railroad in eas. From a lineal footage per- for mobility-challenged guests, nature of rehabbing legacy at- scanning to make sure that we 1983 at age 22, the experience of spective, they represent about a who must enter through the tractions. “It’s a challenge that could build them back exactly ensuring the coaster’s viability third of the length of the track.” ride’s exit. we face at Disneyland: We want the way they were.” for decades to come can’t get During the 14 months the On the presentation side, to have new things for guests Smith and his team are any sweeter. coaster was closed for construc- the entire audio system was to experience, but at the same very proud, however, of some “It’s just a great ride,” he tion, its computerized operat- replaced, as was most of the in- time you have these attractions new excitement added to the said. “I thought it was one of ing system, dark ride elements candescent show illumination that people are emotionally at- third, enclosed lift hill involv- Disneyland’s best attractions and general atmospherics also (the latter was scrapped wher- tached to — so you want to try ing a dynamite blast inside a when I first rode it, and I still do were refurbished. ever possible in favor of more to rebuild them and not take mineshaft — complete with today.” May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 47 Koch family members travel to Silver Dollar City for learning exchange Editor’s note, when AT first learned our time there, and I was beginning to run (in record time), stood backstage at the IAAPA Attractions Expo 2013 that wish I was coming back after the holi- for their incredible “It’s a Wonder- members of the Koch family planned to days. As we served Christmas dinner ful Life” stage show, and helped em- intern at Silver Dollar City during the to the employees, I realized I recog- ployees’ children decorate cookies. We month of December as a learning exchange nized a lot of these people, and they also got to try some of their new menu project, we not only supported the idea, but were starting to feel like family. items for next year. They’re awesome. asked if they would share their thoughts on That’s the thing about our indus- We got to ask questions we prob- the month-long exchange. try. We’re a community. ably wouldn’t have dared ask at Holi- Below are thoughts from Leah Koch Until November, our community day World. We were there to learn, and about her experience at the Branson, Mo. was fairly small and limited to Holi- we absolutely did. We all worked to- themer. day World and Splashin’ Safari. My Back home at Holiday World from gether at times, but we also got to in- May we now suggest an internship at siblings and I grew up here, and we a month of learning at Silver Dol- dividually learn about the things that any of the faith-based Hawaiian Falls wa- always knew in the back of our minds lar City are sisters Lauren and Leah interested us. During our time there, terparks in North Texas... that we wanted something to do with Koch, with Lauren’s fiancé, Michael we also discovered that we knew way the park when we grew up (though I Crosby, in the middle. more than we ever thought. STORY: Leah Koch think it was farther in the back of Lau- COURTESY HOLIDAY WORLD When we returned to work at Director of Creativity ren’s mind than mine). Unfortunately it So the second our Happy Hallow- Holiday World, we spent a lot of time Holiday World & Splashin Safari took the untimely passing of our father een Weekends were finished, Lauren, spouting out random tidbits to Holi- [email protected] [Will Koch] for us to realize we wanted Michael and I packed our bags and day World President Matt Eckhart be- to be actively involved. Lauren and I road tripped to Branson. We had no fore we finally organized our thoughts “…Holy night, all is calm, all is both knew our father wanted us to get idea what we were in for as we drove and wrote them down. bright…” experience elsewhere before we came deeper into the Ozarks. We consider ourselves incredibly As I joined in yet another Christ- back to Holiday World full-time, and It was the best. The three of us (or lucky for the wonderful opportunity to mas carol led by Peter Herschend’s we knew that even though we had a the three musketeers as we came to be learn so much from such a world-class booming voice, I served another spoon- lot of knowledge about the theme park known) had a wonderful time. We ex- theme park. The staff at Silver Dollar ful of green beans onto an employee’s industry, we had much more to learn. perienced the park’s history at Legend- City was wonderful and we’re excited plate and smiled. My sister went about We decided to take a month or two and ary University. We helped guide guests that we know even more talented pro- bussing tables and her fiancé contin- try to “intern” at another theme park. around the park during the White fessionals. We’re lucky to be a part of ued to serve salad to the wonderful Joel Manby at Herschend Family Glove Gala (when we barely knew the such a wonderful industry, where in- citizens of Silver Dollar City. My sister, Entertainment answered the call, and layout ourselves). We got to watch Pe- stead of shutting one another out we Lauren, her fiancé, Michael, and I had suggested we visit Silver Dollar City ter and Jack Herschend talk about the welcome an open exchange of ideas only been in Branson about five weeks because our parks share very similar early years of SDC during an interview. and are willing to help. total, and we were nearly finished with roots. We also helped stuff bags for their 5K

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50 1428 Maple Ave. • Hamilton, OH 45011 • 513.737.9012 • www.TheBigIdeaPeople.com 48 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014 Cynthia L. Gardella dies at 65 ALTOONA, Pa. — Cynthia L. (DelGrosso) Board of Directors for DelGrosso Co. Gardella passed away at UPMC Altoona on Cynthia taught secondary Spanish at St. March 15, 2014. She was 65. Joseph by the Sea, Staten Island, N.Y., and at Born in Altoona, she was the daughter of Bishop Guilfoyle High School. She was a mem- the late Ferdinand and Mafalda (Pulcino) Del- ber of the Italian Heritage Society and enjoyed Grosso. She married Peter J. Gardella Jr. on entertaining, cooking and traveling. Oct. 24, 1971. She was a graduate of Bishop Surviving are her husband of 42 years, a Guilfoyle High School and the University of daughter, two sons and step-daughter as well , and a member of St. Joseph Cath- as two sisters, four brothers and their families. olic Church, Bellwood, Pa. Contributions may be given to Bishop Cynthia retired from sales and operations Guilfoyle Catholic High School, 2400 E. Pleas- at DelGrosso’s Amusement Park and Marianna ant Valley Blvd., Altoona, Pa. 16602. Foods. She was also an active member on the

N.J. concessionaire AMusement today ‘Fritz’ Rolle dies at home at 65

NEW DELRAY BEACH, Fla. — Frederick J. “Fritz” Rolle, III, a lifelong Jersey Shore conces- D IGITAL EDITION sionaire, passed away at his home here on April 3, 2014. He was 65. A familiar businessman exclusively for print subscribers on several New Jersey board- walks, Rolle was a partner in

INSIDE: Jenkinson’s South in Point Food and Pleasant Beach and MCR Concessions Spotlight : Concessions in Wildwood. Pages 7-14 TM & ©2014 Amusement Today, Inc. From 1992-93, Rolle April 2014 | Vol. 18 • Issue 1 www.amusementtoday.com served as president of the Adventuredome’s El Loco newest thriller at Circus Circus STORY: Dean Lamanna [email protected] New Jersey Amusement As-

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Over INSIDE: the last two decades, roller coasters in this desert destina- Food and sociation (NJAA). He was on tion have launched, looped, Concessions corkscrewed and even coiled languorously atop a tower al- Spotlight : the board of directors for most 1,000 feet up. iPad Pages 7-14 With at least two such high-profi le rides and an en- tire theme park adjacent to more than 30 years. one casino resort having also www.amusementtoday.com been dismantled in that time, The Adventuredome at Circus Circus Hotel & Casino — the NJAA honored Rolle for indoor fun park that has sur- vived the local vicissitudes of family entertainment since its TM & ©2014 Amusement Today, Inc. his contributions to the indus- debut as Grand Slam Canyon in 1993 — has done something exceedingly right: providing April 2014 | Vol. 18 • Issue 1 rides and att ractions in a cli- try in 2012. mate-controlled environment connected to a resort known Adventuredome’s El Loco newest thriller at Circus Circus for its kid friendliness for half STORY: Dean Lamanna a century. [email protected] Rolle, who also lived in La- It took more than six years LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Over of planning and decision- the last two decades, roller coasters in this desert destina- making to choose and custom- Tom Nolan, vice president El Loco, from of operations for the park, de- tion have launched, looped, valette, N.J., was born May 19, ize a new thrill att raction that S&S~Sansei Technolo- scribed the coaster as “the per- corkscrewed and even coiled would both compliment the gies, Inc., performs its languorously atop a tower al- park’s popular Canyon Blaster fect addition” to the enclosed most 1,000 feet up. wild mouse-on-steroids With at least two such corkscrew coaster and fi t into facility’s arsenal of two dozen acrobatics with precision 1948, in Lakewood, N.J. He is high-profile rides and an en- the tight, dome-roofed foot- rides and att ractions. and family-friendly com- “El Loco off ers our guests tire theme park adjacent to print left by the Rim Runner fort within the dramatic one casino resort having also fl ume ride. something they have never ex- confi nes of The been dismantled in that time, But on Feb. 18, after sev- perienced before,” Nolan said Adventuredome at The Adventuredome at Circus survived by his wife, Jeanne; Circus Hotel & Casino — the eral weeks of extensive test- in a chat with Amusement To- Circus Circus. It replaces ing and media teasing, El day just outside the coaster’s indoor fun park that has sur- the park’s 20-year-old, vived the local vicissitudes of Loco — an acrobatic, inverting exit on opening day. “Riders fi ve-acre Rim Runner family entertainment since its wild mouse-style coaster from enjoy El Loco’s twists, turns debut as Grand Slam Canyon two sisters; his children, Kim- ride. in 1993 — has done something S&S~, Inc., and drops in such close prox- COURTESY THE exceedingly right: providing of Logan, Utah — fi nally cut imity to our other rides that, El Loco, from ADVENTUREDOME AT rides and attractions in a cli- loose inside The Adventure- for an instant, they get the sen- CIRCUS CIRCUS mate-controlled environment TM & ©2014 Amusement Today, Inc. S&S~Sansei Technolo- April 2014 | Vol. 18 • Issue 1 INSIDE: berle Rolle Samarelli, Rebecca dome for its offi cial opening. See EL LOCO, page 4 + connected to a resort known gies, Inc., performs its Food and for its kid friendliness for half - Tom Nolan, vice president wild mouse-on-steroids Adventuredome’s El Loco newest thriller at ConcessionsCircus Circus a century. STORY: Dean Lamanna It took more than six years of operations for the park, de- acrobatics with precision [email protected] Spotlight :

scribed the coaster as “the per and family-friendly com- LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Over Pages 7-14 2014 GOLDEN TICKET AWARDS | September 5-7, 2014 of planning and decision- the last two decades, roller Rolle and Frederick J. Rolle, fect addition” to the enclosed fort withinconfines the dramatic of The coasters in this desert destina- making to choose and custom- tion have launched, looped, facility’s arsenal of two dozen corkscrewed and even coiled www.amusementtoday.com

Dated material. material. Dated ize a new thrill attraction that Adventuredome at languorously atop a tower al- would both compliment the rides and attractions. most 1,000 feet up. SUBSCRIBE TO “El Loco offers our guests With at least two such park’s popular Canyon Blaster Circus Circus. It replaces high-profile rides and an en- the park’s 20-year-old, tire theme park adjacent to something they have never ex- one casino resort having also IV; and two grandchildren. corkscrew coaster and fit into Amusement To- five-acre Rim Runner been dismantled in that time, NEWSPAPER perienced before,” Nolan said The Adventuredome at Circus POSTMASTER: PLEASE RUSH! 21, 2014 March Mailed Friday, AMUSEMENT TODAY the tight, dome-roofed foot- in a chat with Shoot theCOURTESY Chute ride. THE Circus Hotel & Casino — the

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US POSTAGE US PRSRT STD PRSRT (817) 460-7220 rently is executive director of NJAA. Memorial donations may be made to Give Kids the World, 210 South Bass Road, Access all of the professional NEWS Kissimmee, Fla., 34746, or on- content you expect from Amusement Today line at www.gktw.org. Rolle raised $70,000 for the non- right on your tablet, phone or laptop! profit children’s concern as co-chair of the annual NJAA Plus, it’s Android and iOS compatible! Golf Outing. The staff of AT, which worked closely with NJAA in Try the Digital Edition FREE today at the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, extends its personal www.amusementtoday.com/digital condolences to Kim Samarelli and her family. May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 49 IAAPA seeks director of Safety and Accessibility COMPILED: Scott Rutherford, [email protected] ALEXANDRIA, Va. — must have a college degree, The International Association engineering preferred, and 5-7 The power of the Force returns to Dis- a Global Phenomenon. The new blockbuster of Amusement Parks and At- years’ experience working in ney’s Hollywood Studios for five consecu- from Imagine will tour in Science centers, nat- tractions (IAAPA) is seeking a safety position. Amusement tive weekends (every Friday, Saturday and ural history museums and non-traditional ven- a director of Safety and Acces- or attractions industry experi- Sunday) from May 16-June 15, 2014 for the ues throughout the world beginning in 2014. sibility. The director of Safety ence is preferred and experi- park’s annual Star Wars Weekends. Guests Angry Birds Universe will feature highly im- and Accessibility will report ence working with OSHA is will enjoy a galactic event packed with out-of- mersive environments, interactive media and to the senior vice president, strongly preferred. this-universe entertainment and their favorite a variety of physical, social and fun interactive Safety and Advocacy and Interested candidates Disney’s Hollywood Studios attractions. More exhibits. will oversee the association’s can apply via the IAAPA Job than 60 characters from the Star Wars saga • appear in the theme park, and each evening Redemption Plus has announced their safety programs, represents Board. will end with Symphony in the Stars, a special partnership with License 2 Play to be the the association before global No phone calls or agencies pyrotechnics salute to the films. exclusive industry supplier for the popular standards-setting bodies, and please. • DC Domo brand of licensed plush. License serves as a member resource For more information con- Travis Williams, Mark Gu and Meghan 2 Play is the official license manufacture for on safety, security, and acces- tact IAAPA’s Susan Mosedale, McGaugh, former MBA students at the Uni- retail and amusement rights for DC Domo, sibility issues. at [email protected]. versity of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), along with several other top brands. This Interested candidates have created the idea for Omnia Las Vegas dual license features two highly recognizable — a nightlife venue highlighted by extreme and widely popular brands. Together the two PEOPLE WATCH amusement park attractions. Omnia is Latin, brands have had an explosive partnership National Ticket announces three staff hires meaning “All,” and this park will encompass that has netted them great acclaim and have National Ticket Company in Paxinos, Pa., has announced everything that is exciting and unique about been featured in USA Today, Entertainment the addition of three new staff members. Las Vegas. The trio has built a business plan to Weekly, IGN and Buzzfeed. This new deal will John Watlington joins the account executive team and bring this unique idea to fruition. The venue, continue to generate excitement with the end which would be located on the south end of user and help drive game revenue. will be covering the Mid-Atlantic region. He spent the past 15 the Las Vegas Strip, will be at the forefront of • years as a sales and product development executive focusing sustainability and engineering. This nocturnal Core Cashless announced further plans on the use and development of cutting edge ticket and admis- amusement park for adults will include ex- to bring their new Paydia cashless technology sion products. treme rides, next generation arcade games, to the boardwalk. Following Phase 1 in the Kyle Wiskow also joins the account executive team. He a nightclub, bars and concert space. Omnia spring, Core will now be providing solutions previously worked for multi-national corporations of Tyco and will cater to resident thrill seekers and tourists for both the Jenkinson’s Aquarium and Jen- GE as well as private corporation Mercury Graphics where he chasing a natural high. kinson’s Pavilion for a Phase 2 deployment sold custom printed tickets to collegiate sports teams. The team’s next steps is to complete a scheduled for later this year. This will allow Fred Proscino comes to National ticket with a background feasibility analysis and build an investor-ready the park owners to unify all the separate areas in military, aircraft/airframe, avionics, optics as well as ticketing platform. They hope the Disney Accelerator of the boardwalk with one piece of software. for all self-service kiosk applications. program will make this a reality. Core will be providing both online and onsite • cashless solutions, including print-at-home IAAPA welcomes three new employees The Battlestar Galactica (touted as the ticketing, access control and data reporting. IAAPA welcomes three new staffers to its headquarters of- world’s tallest dueling roller coaster), a star at- Guests will be able to purchase tickets to the fice in Alexandria, Virginia. They are; traction at the Universal Studios Singapore Aquarium online and use their Jenkinson’s Rosaria Leong began at IAAPA in February after her seven- theme park, may be closed for good. It was Fun Card at even more places around the year tenure at the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organi- reported in MyPaper that the sci-fi themed boardwalk. Installation at the Aquarium and zation where she served as an accountant, senior accountant, rollercoaster, which has been closed since Pavilion will take place in the fall. and then controller. As IAAPA’s controller, Leong has overall re- July 2013, will be replaced by a new ride by • sponsibility for the association’s financial records, including led- the end of this year. It was also reported that In a historic, global event, guests and gers and statements. She oversees the association’s annual audit the new ride will follow a movie theme, and cast members at Disney Parks around the as well as establishes internal controls and financial policies. is expected to have new interiors and a fresh world united in song to celebrate the 50th Before joining IAAPA in February, Kavita Avasthi served coat of paint, among other changes. Resorts anniversary of It’s a Small World, the classic as an accounts payable and payroll specialist for the Children’s World Sentosa (RWS), which manages the Disney Parks attraction that opened as a trib- Defense Fund, a nonprofit organization based in Washington, theme park, has not issued any statements ute to peace and hope at the 1964 New York D.C. In her role as IAAPA’s manager of accounting and human with regards to the closing of Battlestar Ga- World’s Fair. Fans from around the world resources, Avasthi implements employee compensation and lactica. RWS has only previously said that the could join the festivities in a first-of-its-kind, benefit programs and manages the association’s day-to-day ac- “ride is unavailable as it undergoes an attrac- online global sing-along at SmallWorld50. counting programs including accounts payables and receivables. tion review.” The ride was closed for over nine com. Molly Fernandes joined IAAPA as its marketing director in months, about a week after the theme park • February after working 10 years in various capacities at Consum- opened in March 2010. The ride was closed A PGAV-designed theme park in China er Electronics Association, including member relations and Inter- due to technical problems, when cracks were – Chimelong Henquin Ocean Kingdom - has national Consumer Electronics Show (CES) exhibitor marketing. found in the seat-post supports of the coaster set five Guinness Records: World’s Largest Fernandes is responsible for the development and implementa- cars. It re-opened in February 2011. Aquarium; World’s Largest Aquarium Tank; tion of marketing initiatives and campaigns related to IAAPA’s • World’s Largest Underwater Viewing Dome; programs, products, and services, including promoting IAAPA The World’s Largest Dinosaurs roared World’s Largest Aquarium Window; World’s events. into Dallas, Texas, April 6, 2014 at the Perot Largest Acrylic Panel. St. Louis-based PGAV Museum of Nature and Science for a limited served as the product strategist, master plan- engagement. The world-class traveling exhi- ner, lead design consultant, and lead design- Jan Sherman retires from bition, presented locally by Highland Capital er of the 125-acre attraction on Henquin Is- After a 32-year career with Sally Corporation, Jan Sherman Management, will be on view in the Jan and land near Macao. Ocean Kingdom took three (assistant vice president of creative services) retired from the Trevor Rees-Jones Exhibition Hall. years to construct, and features seven unique Jacksonville, Fla.-dark ride company in March. Replacing Sher- • areas, each themed around a different part man is Lauren Wood, who will handle requests and duties re- Imagine Exhibitions, Inc., in partnership of the world’s waterways. Ocean Kingdom lated to editorial and advertising. with Rovio Entertainment and JRA (Jack is home to thousands of animals and boasts All of the staff at AT wishes Jan all the best as she begins Rouse Associates), has announced Angry numerous rides, attractions, retail, and dining retirement and we say thank you for all the help given to us in Birds Universe: The Art and Science Behind choices. the past 18 years. 50 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014 May 2010 AMUSEMENTSeptember TODAY 2009 39 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39 May 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAYCLASSIFIEDS 51 CLASSIFIEDS www.AmusementToday.comwww.AmusementToday.com AmusementToday.com CLASSIFIEDS To place an ad call (817) 460-7220 To place an ad call (817) 460-7220

FOR SALE FOReM SALEploYMenT FOReM SALEFoploYMenR Sale T FoFoRR SaleSale FoFoRR SaleSale FoR Sale SeRVIceS Smokey Mountain Smokey Mountain East Coast Beach Location Canned Spiel Repeaters Amusements Inc. Amusements Inc. Great for game booths and ride queue needs Ride Help - In All Departments lines. Complete with 24-watt amp Majestic Midways Equipment needs Ride Help - In All Departments 12 Rides Ride Superintendent - For Green Unit and weather-tight speaker. Up to fourCan Ride Superintendent - For Green Unit 13 Games 2-minute custom sayings or one self- Electrician - For Green Unit Electrician - For Green Unit Profitable, owner looking to diversify repeating custom canned spiel. 1) Chance “Americana” 2 Abreast Carousel ...... $135,000 Contact: with existing operations. Contact: Brian (Beaver) Bitner $350 - Go to www.ACsound.net® for Ground mount, B&K horses, handicap accessible, wood platform, like new Brian (Beaver) Bitner and (919) 272-5627 If interested, please contact: more information or call Anthony at (919) 272-5627 2) 2011 SBF / Visa “Hog Wild” Motorcycle Ride ...... $50,000 ChanceBilly Sea Clark Dragon - (863) T/M 738-1689...... $149,000 Len Soled (865) 742-1394 Billy Clark - (863) 738-1689 MAY Winter Quarters Now Open! Rides-4-U, Inc. Like new Moser T/M...... $449,000 Winter Quarters Now Open! help grow your business? 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TFN Orient Express -Wisdom ...... $139,000 OPPORTUNITY Traffic Jam T/M (SBF) ...... $219,000 TO SIGN UP FOR affinitymm.com/twitterbook 8) 1996 Cobra Sports Car ...... $34,000 ...... $169,000 Contact Sunny 612 332-5600 Turbo Force -Zamperla T/M ...... $199,000 THIS2 Bob FREE Space NEWS Racers SERVICE WeWe will travel travel the the East East Coast. Coast. Our Our 1989 T/M ...... $205,000 Vertical Water Race Games Tivoli Remix T/M...... $425,000 TFN GO TO WWW.AMUSEMENTTODAY.COM office hourshours areare M-FM-F 88 a.m.a.m - 5 p.m., 7,000 original miles BINGO / BEANO GAMES FOR SALE Americana Carousel 28’ ...... $199,000 1 14-player, 1 12-player park models Saturday 9 a.m. - noon. wanted for Bangor State Fair, Bangor, WHITEWATER 10 YEAR INSPECTIONS Truck Stop (Zamperla) ...... $18,000 in mint condition. Saturdy 9 a.m. - noon. Zamperla Truck Stop T/M...... $24,000 Traffic Jam -SBF T/M ...... $219,000 Publication & Ad Design 9) 1997 Southwind 35’ Motorhome ...... $17,000 Maine 7/30-8/8 and Skowhegan Fair, 3rd party FoinsuranceR Sale and safety inspec- Sea Ray T/M (Mulligan) ...... $249,000 AMUSEMENTTODAY.COM 1. SKEE BALLS CallPoint-of-Purchase (207) 825-3944 ask Materials for Jamie Design or Skowhegan,Call LenMaine or 8/12-8/21. John Call tions. California QSI inspections. Former Funny Freight T/M ...... $29,000 AMUSEMENTTODAY.COMRetiring - Priced to Sell! Danielle. Or call our cell at 40k miles, generator, 2 AC, TV, awnings, one pullout, auto level 2. CLAW MACHINES Kamikazi T/M (Fabbri) ...... $149,000 Great price. Call (718) 266-8384 or Disney Safety Manager. Amusement and AMUSEMENTTODAY.COM Web & Flash(207) 659-4069.Design Communications 10) Qty 8 – Paint Booth Ceiling Lights ...... $2,500 or $400 each Gene(908) Dean 526-8009 - Fiesta Shows 3. STACKERS KiddieMini Rocking Scrambler Tug T/M -Eli (Zamperla) T/M ...... $ .....$49,000 29,000 AMUSEMENTTODAY.COM(718) 614-0597 FAX:(978) (908) 375-2542 526-4535 waterparks.4. SPORTS ARENAS TV & Radio www.affinitymm.com DizzyDrop TowerDragon 806- (Sellner) Moser ...... $54,000 T/M ...... $99,000 AMUSEMENTTODAY.COM [email protected] Explosive proof – retail for $1,000 each 5. AIR HOCKEY TABLES AMUSEMENTTODAY.COM Whatever Your Project Calls For www.safetycertify.com KamakaziPower Surge -Fabbri T/M T/M(Zamperla) ...... $149,000 ....$349,000 (817) 564-3843 JUN 6. POOL TABLES AMUSEMENTTODAY.COMFor Sale: Waterslide molds from AMUSEMENT TODAY 11) Qty 10 – Skat Cat Machines and Lanes ...... $2,000 (916) 772-26987. VIDEO GAMES For Sale: 1987 Huss Sellner Apple T/M ...... $29,000 reputable company. Four complete CLASSIFIEDS Call Len or John systems ready for production with Great Condition. YOUR USED RIDE claSSIFIed QUARTERTIME AMUSEMENTS Call(908) Len 526-8009 or John two additional systems available. Phone: (717) 292-2556 Tower rehabbed in 2004. (908) 526-8009 claSSIFIed MARKETPLACE OPPORTUNITYP/M. Excellent ride for FAX: (908) 526-4535 Please contact [email protected] Email: [email protected] deadlIneS Call Michael: (410) 358-8311 FAX: (908) 526-4535 mid-sizedpark. deadlIneS MAY Arcade/GamesRide is operating Manager/Technician and available AMUSEMENT TODAY’S October 1st. AMUSEMENT TODAY’S Classified pages close the 10th of Full time, year-round position at Location - Eastern USA. Classified pages close the 10th of month prior to the issue date. Connecticut amusement park. month prior to the issue date. FOR SALE Rates: Experience with new and classic arcade • Rates: •Regular classified ad– 99-year-oldand group games Carousel equipment w/1924 preferred. Wurlitzer •Regular classified ad– $24,000$20 minimum up to 30 words; Manageorgan. Locatedlarge on-site in USA. arcade Major and rehabgames $20 minimum up to 30 words; Indiana $1Location per additional word. concessionsin 2004. Indoor in-season location. and assist Available with September 2009. $1 per additional word. [email protected]•Display classified ad –$50 local rental/route business as needed. FOR SALE per column inch. A 1-point •Display classified ad –$50 Four rows, 35 jumpers, 23 standers, per column inch. A 1-point OTHERrule RIDES will AVAILABLEappear around ad. Qualified candidates2 chariots. may e-mail www.amusementtoday.comrule will appear around ad. •Company logos, screens and [email protected] with “Arcade/ •Company logos, screens and reverses also are available on GamesAvailable Manager” through in International subject line. Include Ride Top of the Line Laser Show Equipment FOR SALE Management reverses also are available on display ads upon request. contact information, brief employment Paratrooper: $24,000 display ads upon request. history and qualifications. : $65,000 Call (609)SUBSCRIBE 920-0252 or (609) TODAY 827-1316 RECEIVE 14 NEWS-PACKED ISSUES PER YEAR STAY INFORMED Used Two Seasons AT CLASSIFIEDS Calypso: $22,000 AT CLASSIFIEDS HouseYOUR of USED Glass RIDEMaze: MARKETPLACE$1,000 YOUR USED RIDE MARKETPLACE Dual Flume Water Slide: $15,000 SMOKEY MOUNTAIN AMUSEMENTS Your own custom show available from Producer in Florida. GAMES FOR SALE LOOPING COASTER MAIL THIS FORM TO: AMUSEMENT TODAY • P.O. BOX 5427 • ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76005 USA Bayern Curve: $19,500 INC. Needs Ride Help In All TO SUBSCRIBE FAX THIS FORM TO: 817.265.6397 • SUBSCRIBE ONLINE: www.amusementtoday.com Service, if needed, available from service center in Southern US. Departments:SUBSCRIPTION1. SKEE BALLS FORM [email protected] Launch Loop Shuttle Coaster Ride Superintendent2.R CLAWNew MACHINES Subscription - For Green Unit. all steel with Angola, Indiana Electrician - For Green Unit. R3. RenewalSTACKERS G-Force 4, 56’FIRST high AND LAST x 635’ NAME long CREDIT CARD NUMBER 4. SPORTS ARENAS R Change of Address Built 1977, Excellent condition in Contact:5. AIR HOCKEY TABLES Brian (Beaver) Bitner Indiana. $200,000 GREAT ATTRACTION FOR A DRY PARK 6. POOL TABLES USA OUTSIDE USAFor photosCOMPANY and NAME details: EXPIRATION DATE 3-4 DIGIT SECURITY CODE FOR SALE (919) 272-5627 7.R VIDEOOne Year GAMES $50 $70 [email protected] “60 Horse Chance - Billy Clark Outside row of Bradley & Kaye horses. R Two Years $90 $130 ADDRESS NAME AS IT APPEARS ON CARD (Company Name and/or Cardholder Name) (863)QUARTERTIME 738-1689 AMUSEMENTS Reason for selling – Our Water Park Guests leave before dark. 2 loads (4 pupP.O. trailers) Box $425,000 5427 R Three Years $130 $190 P.O. Box 5427 Arlington, Texas 76005-5427 Call Michael: (410) 358-8311 CITY, STATE, ZIP CODE (or Province and Postal Code) TELEPHONE NUMBER (REQUIRED) Reverchon Flume II – Excellent condi- Arlington, Texas 76005-5427 • R Payment Enclosed tion, 8 boats, new liner, AMUSEMENT • (817) 460-7220 COUNTRY EMAIL ADDRESS Paid $335,000, asking $200,000 5 trailers. $565,000 Charge to Credit Card: (817) 460-7220 Fax (817) 265-NEWS (6397) TODAY SIGN ME UP FOR FREE EMAIL NEWS ELI #5 FERRIS WHEEL Fax (817) 265-NEWS FREE(6397) Call EJ Dean 978-375-2542• QUESTIONS? CALL AT: 817.460.7220 NEWS! R EXTRA! EXTRA! YOUR DESKTOP EDITION RRSerial# 1161-69 R • We accept: G/M, sand blasted CLASSIFIEDS For More Information, please contact: ready for repairTo subscribe and paint , call We accept: 45-foot trailer YOUR I WANT TO HELP BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTABLE DONATION IN THE AMOUNT BELOW TO BAND ORGANS THE NATIONAL ROLLER COASTER MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES. MORE INFO: ROLLERCOASTERMUSEUM.ORG 125 Wurlitzer band organ with 13 brass (817) 460-7220 PRESERVING MAKE A YES! Sam Haynes | Blue Bayou Water Park ROLLER COASTER horns, 14 whistles and drums. All origi- $6,000 cash or visit HISTORY USEDDONATION RIDE$10 $25 $50 OTHER AMOUNT: $ nal - needs tuning. R R R R (225) 931-6000 Call John Fanelli (978)amusementtoday.com 343-4881 MARKETPLACE $15,000 Bob Kissel - (812) 839-3255 52 AMUSEMENT TODAY May 2014

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MOTOCOASTER Antonio Zamperla Spa Vicenza - Italy Phone: 0444 +39 998400e-mail: [email protected] www.zamperla.com