Efteling Opens Symbolica Dark Ride, Its Largest-Ever Project ETF Provides Vehicles; Garner Holt Productions Supplies Animatronics

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September 2017 | Vol. 21 • Issue 6.1 www.amusementtoday.com Efteling opens Symbolica dark ride, its largest-ever project ETF provides vehicles; Garner Holt Productions supplies animatronics

AT: Andrew Mellor [email protected]

KAATSHEUVEL, The Netherlands — On July 1 the Dutch theme park, Efteling, opened its latest major attraction to the public in the shape of Symbolica: Palace of Fantasy, a €35 million ($41.1 million) investment built to mark the park’s 65th anniversary year.

Symbolica is an indoor, family attraction designed as an enchanting palace in which Symbolica features a seven-minute dark ride which utilizes a nothing is what it seems. It trackless system from Dutch company ETF Ride Systems. A joins other major fantasy- wide variety of scenes have been created for visitors to en- based indoor attractions such joy throughout the Symbolica dark ride. The King’s Hall (be- as Droomvlucht, Fata Morgana low and right) is one of the rooms Efteling guests can enjoy. and Carnaval Festival. COURTESY EFTELING Located in the center of the park at the end of the Pardoes Promenade, Symbolica is surrounded by a palace garden partly inspired by the gardens of other large palaces. The garden is unique for its themed design and also incorporates a roof garden in which approximately 800 solar panels have been included for the generation of sustainable energy. Symbolica: Palace of Fan- tasy was constructed over a period of a year and a half and is the most expensive and larg- 4See EFTELING, page 5 Dated material. material. Dated

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MAILBAG FLINT’S VIEW: Bubba Flint Readers reply to August columns To the editor: My name is Justin La Fond and I am the general manager of Hawaiian Falls water park in Mansfield, Texas. I recently read your "Barefoot Challenge" editorial in the August issue of Amusement Today. I was very intrigued by your research and can say that it is something that we battle day in and out every summer. We are a city-owned/privately operated water park, so as you can imagine, the city gets to have their say in a lot of our operational decsions. One being that we are not allowed to have soaker hoses or a hose of any type used to cool of the hot concrete. We do provide water shoes in our retail shop, but I agree with you that is not the answer. We would love to provide a solution to this problem, but we as a company have yet to come up with one that works for the guests. I would love to hear your opinion on this and look forward to hearing back from you. Thanks for taking the time to publish your article, it was a good read.

Justin La Fond Park Director, Hawaiian Falls, Mansfield [email protected] • To the Editor: Directed to Tim Baldwin ("Barefoot Challenge," Aug. column): EDITORIAL: B. Derek Shaw, [email protected] I couldn’t agree with you more on the hot paths in water parks. We have spent a lot of time upgrading our water park facilities beyond In-park real estate blight new thrills — adding shade, more seating, free Wi-Fi and better food I’ve been visiting amusement park/theme attraction will enjoy a few years of “extreme with more capacity. In many cases, this has made the hot paths bet- park midways around the world for more than popularity” before yielding to the next new ter, but I’m not convinced we couldn’t do more. We have a saying five decades, and I’ve come to realize that prop- thrill ride and/or patrons' changing tastes “what interests my boss, fascinates me.” With this email I think Rich- er midway traffic flow is paramount to every suc- and thrill preferences. Demand changes ard (Zimmerman) and Greg (Scheid) are going to be fascinated. cessful operation. However, I’ve noticed some- as time goes by, with queue houses that Directed to Andrew Mellor ("Quality Counts," Aug. column): thing that started in the mid 1970s that continues remain unused standing as relics to past Your editorial got my attention. My history allows me to separate today — abandoned or unused queue houses (a demand. In fact, a few parks have initially term I’ve coined, for lack of an existing one). constructed these buildings only to have between the quality that Disney and Universal can deliver and Shaw what is financially rational for regional parks. I’d like to believe that These overflow ride line pavilion areas are never used them in the ride line for which at Cedar Fair, our standards are the truly the best in the regional typically built of wood, metal frame or other ma- they were built. In some cases, parks have park business. There were times in the past when we got a little terial and many times are covered in canvas to provide torn down their queue houses and replaced them with behind the curve, but I am extremely proud of the work Richard protection from the sun. Sometimes these areas are small attractions. and his team have done over the past few years. I am hopeful that just a concrete pad with rows of back-and-forth queue Why not, from the ride’s inception, invest in por- chutes with metal railing. table stanchions, chain or retractable belts, thus allow- whatever park you visited was not one of Cedar Fair’s, but if it was It starts out innocently enough. When a new ating the park to expand and contract the length of the I hope you provide us your feedback in more detail so that we can traction first opens (usually a roller coaster or other ma- queue on an “as-needed” basis. Many parks have al- be responsive. jor ride), park owners and management are optimistic ready been doing this in their parking lots with cones Gary [Slade], in case you ever wonder whether some of us pay about crowd acceptance, and rightly so. To satisfy that and pylons. This move then allows the real estate to be attention to Amusement Today, wonder no more. potential demand, long queues are planned that may used for other purposes: additional ride theming, an- P.S.: We are fortunate to work in this industry and holding our- wrap around the ride to help keep the line off the mid- other smaller attraction, a food or drink area, or more selves — and the industry more broadly –—to high standards is a way. As an added “infrastructure bonus,” architects and landscaping. noble pursuit. designers build into the plans a queue house or two The benefits to the park include savings on the to help alleviate any midway congestion. Sometimes at- overall attraction cost, no forlorn symbols of past de- Matt Ouimet tractions have a long queue twisting through the struc- mand and the opportunity to repurpose the area for CEO, Cedar Fair Entertainment Company ture instead, eliminating the need for queue houses. some other revenue-generating purpose. Or better [email protected] However, history typically proves that a particular yet, the option to leave the space, “au natural.”

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Amusement Today is an independent, privately- Founder, Publisher and Editor Special Projects & Editorial Monthly Contributors owned trade newspaper published 14 times Gary Slade • (817) 460-7220 x3 Jeffrey Seifert • (817) 460-7220 x2 Dan Feicht, Bubba Flint, Andrew Mellor, per year by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. Box [email protected] [email protected] Richard Munch, Janice Witherow 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. Print issues are $50 per year and are mailed Presort Standard Postage (permit No. 2069) Pre-Paid Fort Worth, Accounting & Classified Social Media & Editorial Print Issue & Extra Extra Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper, Sammy Piccola • (817) 460-7220 x1 Dean Lamanna Desktop Edition Production and its related websites, are Copyrighted and [email protected] [email protected] Website Maintenance Trademarked 2017 by Amusement Today Inc., John Robinson • (513) 256-1441 all rights reserved. Assistant Office Manager Editorial [email protected] Savannah Breen • (817) 460-7220 Tim Baldwin Address: P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas [email protected] [email protected] Association Memberships 76005-5427, USA AIMS International, ASTM, IAAPA, IISF, IRT/ Deliveries: 2012 E. Randol Mill Road #203, Advertising B. Derek Shaw • (717) 650-8330 iROC, NAARSO, NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, Arlington, Texas 76011, USA [email protected] PAPA, PACE, TTIA, WWA Phone: (817) 460-7220 Sue Nichols • (615) 477-5432 [email protected] Fax: (817) 265-NEWS (6397) Pam Sherborne • (615) 308-3310 Industry Affiliated Charities Websites: www.AmusementToday.com, [email protected] Give Kids the World Village, Morgan's Wonderland, www.GoldenTicketAwards.com National Roller Coaster Museum & Archives 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017

THE INDUSTRY SEEN A legacy of lakeside fun MINUTE DRILL 2 AT: Janice Witherow

While Sara has traveled all over the world, her favorite place she’s visited is Easter Is- land, a remote Chilean island famous for the enormous stone heads its inhabitants once built. COURTESY SARA SEAY Sara Seay, Premier Rides Sara Seay is enjoying quite a ride in her career in When dipping tortilla chips, do you prefer the amusement industry! She began in the business salsa, cheese or guacamole? Guacamole — on at Lagoon Amusement Park in Utah and is now salads, fish tacos and scrambled eggs too! Premier the director of sales and marketing for My all-time favorite Michael Jackson song is: Beyond being a beloved institution and landmark in its Rides where she travels the world promoting the I like a lot of his songs but enjoy his Fosse-inspired home state, Lake Compounce in Bristol, Conn., is America's company and its attractions. Sara loves adventure, dance style more. oldest amusement park. The location's appeal as a public family and friends and is a big Baltimore Ravens gathering spot dates to 1846, when thousands were lured football fan. She recently had her dream wedding My latest big bargain was: Just saved $30 on a in Marco Island, Fla., to Jim Seay of Premier Rides. $75 flower arrangement for my mom. to witness an experiment conducted by a local inventor; property owner Gad Norton then turned his acreage into Title: Director of Sales & Marketing. Fall is here! My favorite activity is: Flying with a picnic park. A casino was opened and trolley service ar- my husband Jim over the Chesapeake Bay to Years with Premier Rides: 12.5 years. rived in 1895. Rides and attractions eventually were added. Maryland's Eastern Shore. I love seeing the fall Along with Quassy Amusement Park in nearby Middlebury, Best thing about the industry: It is filled colors from the air! Lake Compounce is co-hosting this year's Golden Ticket with opportunities for growth. At Lagoon, I It's Friday night at 7pm. Where can we typically Awards, to be presented during the weekend of Sept. 8-9 first experienced the rewards of a strong work find you?Hopefully by 7pm on Friday we have by Amusement Today. AT/GARY SLADE ethic, earning promotions and taking on more left the office! responsibility. The opportunities continue with Premier, which include global travel, forming The last time I went in the Ocean was: friendships and experiencing different cultures. The Indian Ocean off Phuket, Thailand in June.

CHARACTER CORNER Are you a little bit country or a little bit rock 'n Favorite amusement ride: I have a classic and roll? I enjoy all kinds of music. I've been fortunate a contemporary favorite. As a 13-year veteran of Alfundo, Dorney Park to attend both the Grammys and the CMAs, and Lagoon, my favorite classic is the wooden roller even had the pleasure of meeting several amazing For more than 50 years, Alfun- coaster, designed by John Miller and built in 1921. artists over the years including industry colleagues do, the Clown delighted visitors My favorite contemporary is Full Throttle at Six Gene Simmons and Dolly Parton. to Dorney Park. Short for Flags Magic Mountain.

ALlentown has FUn at DOrney, One week ago today I was: Picking Maryland If I wasn't working in the amusement industry, I the clown was a creation of blue crabs on the deck over the water at would be: famous dark ride designer Bill A photographer for National Geographic. Baltimore’s Captain James’ Crab House. Tracy. The huge clown head, Biggest challenge facing the industry: Safety is made of fiberglass featured out- The first thing I do when I get home from work such an important aspect of all we do, regardless is: Prepare dinner for the puppy. stretched arms that simulated of the capacity in which we work in the industry. juggling of five lighted balls It's a constant challenge because expectations, When I say football, you say: [Hums] Ooh-oh-oh- with flashing lights going from technology...and even threats...are always oh-ooh-oh!! Go Ravens!! one side to the other. He graced evolving, and we must stay ahead of it. the original park entrance until Last guilty pleasure: Big Brother – how did I get

1989 when he was moved to the The thing I like most about amusement/ pulled in?! new park entrance. An Alfundo water park season: I love seeing special family Growing up I wanted to be: A roller coaster costume character spent time memories in the making. designer. As a high school senior, I entered the Physics in the park. Alfundo had a little Favorite breakfast food: Bacon, extra crispy! It's Day design competition hosted by Lagoon, and won gas powered car that allowed 3rd place in the state! Realizing I enjoyed other facets him to run around the park and also great for lunch and dinner as well. And in a Bloody Mary! of hospitality more, I switched majors from Mechanical a small greeting stand called Engineering to Hospitality Management. It's amazing Alfundo's House. Alfundo the The most memorable trip I have ever taken how it came full circle professionally. character faded away in the would have to be: Easter Island. 1980s. The old park sign hung When I look out my kitchen window I see: on for another decade but When I need advice, I turn to: I have several very Living on a pier affords us unique nautical views started to fall apart in the 1990s close friends and confidantes of varying ages and such as great blue herons, migrating ducks and, and was eventually removed. experience in the industry who have provided of course, all the ships and boats. My favorite is support and advice over the years. watching the historic tall ships sail by. CARTOON BUBBA FLINT; HISTORY JEFFREY SEIFERT My favorite pizza topping is: Classic pepperoni. Favorite TV show: Game of Thrones. September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5

FAST FACTS Name/Park Symbolica: Palace of Fantasy family dark ride Efteling, Kaatsheuvel, The Netherlands Type of attraction A covered family attraction, an enchanting palace in which nothing is what it seems. Opened July 1, 2017 Investment 35 million euros (U.S. $41 million) Themed Palace Garden Symbolica's Palace Garden is partly inspired by the gardens of other large palaces. The garden is unique for its theme-based design, in which approximately 800 solar panels have been included for the generation of sustainable energy. The solar panels were installed in April, The Botanicum is just one of the many scenes visitors experience during their ride through after which the roof was covered with 800,000 square meters Symbolica. COURTESY EFTELING of plants for roof vegetation. Show Details EFTELING vehicle system from Dutch com- other contractors included Hei- The new attraction revolves around the interplay of Continued from page 1 pany ETF Ride Systems. Guests jmans, Hoppenbrouwers, Gub- universal themes such as reality, dream and fantasy, are seated in one of 34, six-seater bels and Allround Dakexpert. which makes the experience unique and for all. est attraction at Efteling. It re- Fantasy Carriages which follow “We have tried to build a Ride Experience volves around the interplay of a route through the attraction differentiating family attrac- A maximum of six people step into a carriage and then choose one of three different routes. Each route universal themes such as real- moving forwards, backwards, tion, especially to celebrate Eft- offers a different adventure with interactive elements through the ity, dreams and fantasy, which fully rotating, overtaking oth- eling's 65th anniversary,” says Palace of Fantasy. makes the experience unique ers and sometimes accelerating Fons Jurgens, chairman of Eftel- Ride System Specifications and suitable for all ages. It is lo- in certain scenes. Visitors can ing's board of directors. “And Vehicles: 34 Fantasy Carriages — vehicles that can move in cated in the magical Fantasieri- also choose from three different to now see that whole families any direction, to ensure a unique ride experience. jk, where King Pardulfus rules. routes, all of which ensure an come to Efteling for a ride in Ride system: The 7-minute attraction is 'trackless' Lakey O.J.Punctuel is his lackey individual adventure through Symbolica is very moving. And meaning visitors cannot see how the Carriages move. who prepares visitors for their the Palace of Fantasy. Hourly I am not just speaking for my- Capacity: 1,400 visitors per hour audience with King Pardulfus. capacity is 1,400. self, but especially on behalf Attraction Suppliers The main element of Sym- The animatronics in the of all the people who were in- Heijmans, Hoppenbrouwers, Gubbels, bolica is a seven-minute dark attraction were provided by volved with the construction of ETF Ride Systems, Allround Dakexpert and Garner Holt Productions (animatronics). ride which utilizes a trackless Garner Holt Productions, while this phenomenal attraction.” 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 INTERNATIONAL

 Walibi Belgium announces €100m investment plans — Page 8 Germany’s Hansa-Park celebrates 40th anniversary AT: Andrew Mellor [email protected]

SIERKSDORF, Germany — Situated on the bay of the Queen of the Hanseatic received enhanced theming League in northern Germa- and is now more intense. The ny, Hansa-Park, the coun- free-fall speed has been more try’s only theme park by the than doubled from approxi- sea, is celebrating its 40th an- mately 5 meters per second niversary this year. to 11 meters per second. Ad- Open from early April to ditionally, the theming of the the end of October, Hansa- ride has been completed and Park offers a unique com- now more than 1.5 million bination of theme park and bricks cover the facade of the Baltic Sea beach, with more tower of Kärnan and intri- than 125 attractions avail- cate wood carvings and cast able for all ages. Currently a iron work give the fortress a total of 36 rides and four live majestic appearance. shows are provided, along A totally new attraction with special events which that has also opened for the include Visit of the Shadow park’s anniversary year is Creatures, a scare event, and Kärnapulten, located next to Autumn Magic by the Sea, Kärnan and created to “de- which takes place during the fend the fortress and its tow- The Oath of Kärnan coaster has received enhanced theming and now offers a more intense last 16 days of the season and er” according to the park. A ride experience. COURTESY HANSA-PARK transforms the park into a sea Gerstlauer Sky Fly ride, it from Preston and Barbieri, a counterparts, it offers small- on offer this year at the Fan- of lights, garlands and glitter allows guests to perform a family ride ideal as younger er guests coaster fun in true tastic Cinema. Also new was and features a parade of light range of flight manuvers, in- visitors’ first coaster. Care- Hansa-Park style. the variety show Let’s Cel- and fireworks display. cluding somersaults, up to 22 fully designed and woven A new 4D film, Mystery ebrate and a new special ef- For 2017, the worldwide meters (72 feet) up in the air into a story just like its larger Mansion 4D, has also been fects show. unique reverse free-fall in using two joysticks in an in- the dark of Europe’s second teractive family experience. highest coaster, Oath of Kär- Also new this year is the nan, built by Gerstlauer, has Little Tsar steel roller coaster

The new Little Tsar family coaster (left) is from Preston and Barbieri. Kärnapulten (right) is a Gerstlauer Sky Fly ride which allows guests to perform a range of flight maneuvers.COURTESY HANSA-PARK September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 Walibi Belgium announces €100m investment plans AT: Andrew Mellor are confident that in the fu- [email protected] ture, families and young people looking for an excit- WAVRE, Belgium — ing day will be satisfied.” Walibi Belgium, part of The development plans the Compagnie des Alpes reveal that new attractions Group, has announced a ma- will be added each year up jor €100m (approximately to 2023. Next year, for exam- U.S. $118 million) investment ple, will see the installation plan over the next few years of a new family coaster, lo- that will see the addition of cated close to the Challenge a host of new attractions and of Tutankhamon, along with facilities and the retheming refurbishment work in the of each area of the park. lower area of the park. The The aim of the work is indoor water park Aqualibi to reconfigure the site and to will also benefit from the in- make it the key amusement vestment funds with the cre- park in the country targeting ation of a 700-square-meter all ages. By the time the new (7,535-square-foot) aquatic developments have been playground for younger chil- completed three quarters dren, in particular those who of the park will have been have yet to learn to swim. Walibi Belgium will add a transformed in a program This expansion will result in host of new attractions and unequalled in Belgium. Aqualibi covering an area of facilities (above) in a major “This ambitious devel- 7,000-square-meters (75,347 redevelopment program opment plan will allow us to square-feet), all complete over the next five years. further establish our position with a tropical atmosphere. Right, Walibi Belgium’s as the largest and most sen- In 2019, three other zones indoor waterpark Aqualibi sational Belgian amusement will see renewed theming, will also benefit from the park for visitors of all ages,” while new elements in the redevelopment work taking said CEO Jean-Christophe park will include an interac- place at the park. Parent. “Walibi has always tive indoor family attraction, COURTESY WALIBI BELGIUM played a pioneering role in a children’s coaster and a offering its audiences new and unique sensations. We 4See WALIBI, page 9 September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9 WALIBI Continued from page 8 large new restaurant. 2020 will see the renewal of the western area and the addition of a new interactive water attraction, among other items, 2021 will be a landmark year according to the park with the addition of a major new roller coaster in a new area of the venue. This will be the park’s tenth coaster. A family attraction and the further redevelopment of another area of the park, in addition to new water- slide attractions in Aqualibi, will complete the investment plan in 2022 and 2023.

By the time the redevelopment work is complete, three quarters of the park will have been transformed. COURTESY WALIBI BELGIUM 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017

WATER PARKS & RESORTS

 ProSlide delivers big new product for Kalahari Sandusky — Page 12 Six Flags opens Hurricane Harbor Oaxtepec in Mexico ProSlide, ADG “The park had been closed for four years, so it definitely need- contracted to ed some fit and finish. Ironically, we actually did a number of the refurbish park original slides.” The original attractions that AT: Jeffrey Seifert remained at the park were re- [email protected] stored with gelcoat and paint. Several new attractions were OAXTEPEC, Morelos, introduced and ADG developed Mexico — Following nearly a plan to connect the preexist- two years of planning and re- ing portion of the park with the construction, Six Flags Hurri- new development. Upgrades to cane Harbor Oaxtepec opened the existing section included an to the public this summer. The updated filtration system, hold- water park dates back to the ing tanks for chemical treatment 1940s when the Mexican gov- and a reconfiguration of the ernment built a competition electrical system. pool with a diving well to host Six Flags invested heavily swim meets and train swim- in the park to bring the property ming teams. In the 1970s, the up to modern-day standards. 67-acre property was converted In addition to equipment refur- into Parque Acuático Oaxtepec, bishment and upgrades, new a water park that was a tourist attractions were added along destination for the populace of with new culinary and retail es- Play structures (above) nearby Mexico City for more tablishments. ProSlide provided provide plenty of interac- than 35 years. The company two major attractions: Twister, tive activity for the park's that leased the property from a Tornado 60; and Big Surf, a younger guests. Right, pri- the Mexican Social Security Behemoth Bowl 40 + Torna- vate cabanas appear to be Institute (IMSS), Promotora de doWave. ADG added a 30,675 floating in a pool. Centros de Esparcimiento, ran square-foot wave pool with a COURTESY ADG into economic and legal prob- Wavetek system capable of pro- lems, closed the facility at the ducing waves up to 2.5 feet in a Adults can enjoy a beer end of the 2011 season and re- variety of different patterns. Ac- and order food at the Beachside turned the property to IMSS. cording to ADG, it is the largest Grill. Shops include the Big Surf IMSS sought other opera- wave pool in Latin America. Shop featuring Hurricane Har- tors and eventually struck a deal Nine eateries at the park of- bor-themed souvenirs, and Is- — four years later — with Six fer a variety of choices including land Traders which offers swim Flags Entertainment, owners of local Mexican food — roasted suits, beach towels, sun screen, Six Flags México in Mexico City. chicken, salads, nachos and ta- flip flops and other water park Six Flags contracted Aquatic De- cos; American favorites — burg- essentials. to open this incredible park to mitment to providing thrills for velopment Group and ProSlide ers, hot dogs, wings, French Six Flags Hurricane Harbor guests in the Oaxtepec area and all ages and expanding the Six to renovate the shuttered park. fries; and Italian food — mainly Oaxtepec is Six Flags Entertain- beyond,” said Six Flags Interna- Flags experience to guests all Philip Hayles, vice presi- pizza. Most restaurants are in- ment’s first water park outside tional Development Company over the world.” dent of development for cluded with the annual dining the United States. President John Odum. “This in- 4See SIX FLAGS, page 14 ProSlide told Amusement Today, pass plan. “We are immensely proud vestment underscores our com-

A lazy river (left) carries floating guests through lush vegetation. ProSlide provided a Tornado 60 and Behemoth Bowl 40 + TornadoWave combination slide. COURTESY ADG September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 11 12 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 ProSlide delivers big new product for Kalahari Sandusky AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected]

SANDUSKY, Ohio — The first Kalahari Resort opened in Wisconsin Dells, Wis., a location known for multiple water parks. Following its success in 2000, the second was built in Sandusky, Ohio and opened in 2005, making for the beginnings of a family of indoor water park resorts. At the time, it was the largest indoor water park in America at 173,000 square feet. A third property opened in 2015 in the Pocono Moun- tains in Pennsylvania. Since its opening, Kala- hari Sandusky has expanded with a convention center starting with 100,000 square feet in 2006. Today the convention center boasts 215,000 Kalahari's new five-attraction slide complex from ProSlide is making an impression with square feet. guests. The Stingray (right) accomodates two riders per tube. AT/TIM BALDWIN Open year round, the resort is geared toward indoor recreation. In addition to the ing together, which is great curves on this saucer slide as rises until the bottom drops tractions that they didn’t al- water park offerings, it fea- for sharing these experiences a drop and dive sensation out,” said Shanle. “Still, I ready have, included some tures multiple dining ven- together as it brings people creates high speeds think the overall favorite has new rides on the market, ues, a spa and fitness center, closer. Time away from the •Tornado Alley – two to be the Stingray. Blasting provided variety and created mini golf, mini bowling, and stress of work and life is high-energy funnels are in- up the wall leaves you hang- a complex that looked im- an arcade. therapeutic, and our guests corporated into the layout ing in zero gravity. Being one pactful to the guest as they For 2017, the resort in are raving about how incred- where 24-foot drops produce of the two-person raft rides walked out to the outdoor Sandusky has boosted its ible these new icon slides high-banking swings and also lets you face the person water park area.” outdoor activities in dra- are.” moments of zero gravity who is screaming along with During the busy summer matic fashion. While vari- The new slide complex •Serengeti Spinner – a you.” months, the major expansion ous pools, hot tubs, ropes sports a palate of vivid col- serpentine enclosed slide “The ride selection for to the outdoor areas have courses and other physical ors, with each slide claiming with back-to-back curves the new slide complex was helped diversify the fun on activities had been on offer, its own hues. There are five and tight spirals a consultative process with offer and also help spread the new 5-attraction complex different experiences coming •Extreme Rush – a drop key members of the Kalahari the guests more efficiently supplied by ProSlide Tech- off the tower: capsule ride that launches team,” said Jeff Janovich, throughout the resort com- nology is making a big im- •Stingray – a serpentine riders into a near vertical vice president business de- plex. pression on the resort guests. course leads into a 45-degree plunge velopment, ProSlide Tech- “This complex has some- “The feedback has been tunnel which builds speed “Our Extreme Rush nology. “We discussed a thing for everyone,” said phenomenal,” said Brian as it drops into a five-sto- drop slide is a favorite for number of possible ride com- Janovich. “The Flying Sau- Shanle, general manager. ry Wave wall that delivers the thrill seekers. A pulsing bination options and with cer is the newest ride of the “With three of the attractions weightlessness heartbeat begins on entering their feedback and input, we bunch and its steep banked accommodating two people, •Sahara Sidwinder – the chute, then a terrorizing reached the ultimate slide curves keep riders accelerat- families and friends are rid- riders are banked high on the countdown…the fear really choices based on adding ating through the turns. Over- all, this complex has experiences that range from fast to extreme with each ride de- livering a distinct thrill. The TornadoWave 45 (Stingray) and the Double Tornado 24 (Tornado Alley) places riders face-to-face in double tubes. Watching their partner’s look of terror as they fly up the Wave wall is a great memory. The real thrill seekers will go for the SuperLoop (Extreme Rush) with the SkyBox drop capsule. You go from zero to full speed in a split second.” “Our loyal fans know we will keep adding new, exciting attractions to enhance Kalahari,” said Shanle. “We have a reputation for push- The Sahara Sidewinder (above left) features high-banked curves and dive sensations. The neighboring Tornado Alley (above ing the limits in our resorts.” right) sends pairs of riders into two large funnels along its twisted journey. AT/TIM BALDWIN September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 13 14 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 SIX FLAGS cultivated — creating perhaps Continued from page 10 the first botanic garden in the world. When the Spanish ar- Oaxtepec is located south rived to the region, they mar- NEWSSPLASH of Mexico City, about two-hours veled at the beauty of the place. AT: Jeffery L. Seifert away by car. The temperature is Hurricane Harbor is within [email protected] warm all year long with an av- a state-owned park, Centro Va- erage of 80 degrees Fahrenheit. cional IMSS, that features tow- Residents of Aurora, Colo., will be get- years of age must be accompanied by an adult, The Oaxtepec area is known for ering palm trees, lush lawns, a ting a new recreation center and indoor wa- with no more than six children supervised by its lush vegetation and natural dome-covered botanic garden ter park, thanks, in part, to the usage of mari- an adult. The park features other water sports water springs. It has been trea- and a scenic aerial cable car. juana. The 56,000-squrare-foot facility, which including stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, sured for its variety of plant Six Flags Hurricane Harbor is carries a price tag of more than $30 million, sailing and open-water swimming. Off water life going all the back to pre- open daily through August 20, will be funded by a marijuana tax. activities include a land adventure/fitness trail. Columbian times. When it was weekends through December, "The funding was really creative, actually. • conquered by the Aztecs, they and then daily again during the Our city council members have decided to In an effort to provide respite from a heat formed a leisure center and Christmas holiday season. The use marijuana tax revenue to fund the project. wave, The Wave water park in Dublin, Calif., royal gardens for nobles where 2018 operating season has yet to They really thought this was a huge commu- offered residents free admission. The wa- flowers and other plants were be determined. nity impact and it absolutely is. This is a way ter park opened a section of its sports pool to use that money to make a difference for and splash zone to the community for free on a lot of people," said Sherri-Jo Stowell with Tuesday and Wednesday evenings between 6 Aurora Parks, Recreation and Open Space. and 8 p.m. during the heat wave. The water The recreation center will include a large slides were closed but members of the com- aquatic center that includes a water slide, munity were welcome to beat the heat in the lazy river and wave pool. Employees of Au- pool and splash zone. Temperatures in the rora Parks, Recreation and Open Space spent Tri-Valley area were approaching 100 degrees 15 months meeting with the community to during the heat wave. The average tempera- gather input to help with the design process. ture in July and August is 71 degrees. • • Vacationers to Bermuda can now experi- Sandcastle Water Park, Pittsburgh, Pa., ence the latest floating obstacle course trend. was forced to close Saturday, July 30, as a X20 Adventures Inflatable Water Park result of flooding. The Monongahela River opened at the site of the old Nine Beaches overflowed its banks and deposited mud and Resort in Sandys Parish. The resort closed in debris onto the lower level of the park. Fortu- The wave pool is said to be the largest in Latin America. 2010 for renovation but has yet to reopen. nately the park staff was able to move pump COURTESY ADG The floating obstacle course, provided motors and furniture out of the flood zone by Wibit of Germany, can accommodate 100 and onto higher ground when the river began guests at a time. The park is open seven days to rise. Once the water receded everything a week from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. As is typical was covered with foul-smelling mud. Cleanup with these types of parks, guests purchase took more than two weeks but the park did one or more one-hour sessions. A typical ses- eventually re-open on August 8. Midwinter sion runs $25, but discounts are available for floods are not uncommon but the last time early birds or those purchasing multiple ses- the park had to close due to flooding in the sions. There are also group specials for cor- middle of summer was 21 years ago. Sand- porate outings or birthday parties. castle is owned by Palace Entertainment The park features free parking, shaded and during the closure, Sandcastle season seating areas, restroom facilities, and a vari- pass holders were invited to use their season ety of food and drink outlets including snacks pass at two other Palace properties — Ken- and traditional local favorites. nywood and Idlewild & SoakZone. • • In July, Bananas Fun Park, Grand Junc- Terminus Wake Park in Emerson, Ga., tion, Colo., opened Coconut Cove, an inter- has added a floating aqua park to its lineup. active water play structure. Bananas Fun Park The popular cable wake park northwest of At- is an FEC that features a variety of family ac- lanta opened in 2013 and was Georgia's first tivities including go-karts, laser tag, miniature full-sized cable park. It offers three manmade golf and a games arcade. The new water play lakes with an overhead cable 32 feet above structure offers splashy fun for kids during the the lake that can tow up to six people at a summer season with more than 50 water fea- time. The new Aqua Park utilizes equipment tures, multi-level platforms and a 10,000 gal- from Aquaglide's Aquapark series and in- lon tipping bucket. Coconut Cove also fea- cludes a floating trampoline, swinging cata- tures a splash pad with 12 different spinning pults, ladders, climbing structures, and slip- toys and bubbler jets for small children. pery bridges. A 45-minute session costs $15 The new attraction includes a tank that during the week and $20 on weekends. holds 27,000 gallons of water. A filtration • system keeps the water clean and safe. The The citizens of Racine, Wisc., will be able AquaPlay and AquaSpray units were provid- to enjoy a new aquatic center thanks to a ed by WhiteWater West. $6.5 million donation from S.C. Johnson. The • S.C. Johnson Community Aquatic Center at A floating water park/obstacle course Pritchard Park will feature two separate swim- has opened for the summer in Manley Mere, ming pools — a lap pool and an activity pool England. Cheshire Aquapark offers mul- — along with waterslides, a water play struc- tiple floating attractions from Aquaglide's ture and a water sprayround with a zero-depth Aquapark series. Aquaglide, based in White pool for young children. Additional features Salmon, Wash., has been providing inflatable include a rock climbing wall, basketball courts, water play products since 1995. multiple shade structures, lounge chairs and Because of the cooler water tempera- 4,800-square-foot building to house changing tures, a 50-minute session includes a wetsuit areas and a concession stand. The facility has as well as a buoyancy aid. Children under 17 a target opening date of June 2018. September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 15 16 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 PARKS, FAIRS & ATTRACTIONS  Lake Compounce updates four rides — Page 18; FAIRS — Pages 30-36 Worlds of Fun wows guests with new gate, more rides AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected]

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Ce- dar Fair believes in a sense of “arrival.” In recent years, the company has taken that first impression for arriving visitors seri- ously. At Cedar Point, the park’s multiple entrances have all been reimagined. At Carowinds, a new dramatic entrance has a 325- foot coaster swooping above it. Now, Worlds of Fun in Kansas City has its turn. Opened in 1973, the park originally had what most indus- Above, Worlds of Falcons Flight and Mustang Runner are the park’s two new- try folks would term a “front Fun has impressed est rides. Both are by Huss. COURTESY WORLDS OF FUN gate,” and then an additional returning guests side gate for further conve- by reimagining nience, particularly for those in the park’s farther parking lots. Guests were entrance. The transported to the front gate by older entrance is tram. In 1997, that front gate seen at right. closed and was replaced by a COURTESY go-kart track. Tram service was WORLDS OF FUN discontinued and the side entrance became the only entrance gos in the decades that followed. Both new rides feature circu- to the park. For the 2017 season, that balloon lar configurations of seats, each Two decades later, this sce- is prominently featured at the rotating in different methods. nario has finally received its dose new entrance. As summer had ended, the of dazzle. “The new LED board over Worlds of Fun team had reached “The new gate has been the turnstiles is pretty incred- a high level of energy for the re- the ‘wow factor’ for the 2017 ible,” added Burke. mainder of the season. In the past, season,” said Eric Burke, public While the new entrance the park had closed following the relations manager for Worlds of may have surprised many a popular Haunt event in October. Fun and Oceans of Fun. “People guest, once inside, they have For the first time, Worlds of Fun have come into the park for the found two new rides that have is offering Winterfest, and more first time this year or in several added color and flair. Falcon’s than a year of planning has gone years, and they turn that corner Flight (Huss Condor) and Mus- into the holiday event. and it’s just jaw dropping. Peo- tang Runner (Huss Troika) were The 300-foot Steel Hawk ple are always wanting to see among a package of rides Cedar (Mondial Windseeker) will re- something new and exciting and Fair acquired for many of its main silent during Winterfest. now they get that right away. parks this season. Lights will be strung from the top That big iconic balloon was “They have been well re- to the bottom forming a 300-foot something we wanted show- ceived,” Burke told Amusement Christmas tree. cased right at the very beginning Today. “I’m hoping we can see it of their adventure.” Burke says two rides were from space,” Burke said. “Mil- The hot air balloon has long retired to make room for the new lions and millions of lights will been the park’s icon. The theme additions. A children’s bumper be throughout the park.” to Worlds of Fun when built in car ride and a small carousel, both Burke also reported that a the early 1970s was Jules Verne’s original to the park, had reached ten-foot platform will also sup- lighting ceremony every night of lected rides will also be available book, Around the World in 80 the end of their lifespan. He said port a seven-story Christmas the festival. for the new festival. “It will just Days. From the beginning, the that required maintenance made tree that will have two million More than a dozen new be that Christmas fever every- balloon with swaged ribbons has it a good time to transition from lights alone. Choirs and orga- shows will debut at Winterfest. where,” said Burke. “They are graced maps, souvenirs and lo- those old rides. nizations will orchestrate a tree Other holiday activities and se- having fun with it.” September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 17 18 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 v AMUSEMENT PARK Lake Compounce updates four rides AT: B. Derek Shaw MARKET PLACE [email protected]

BRISTOL, Conn. — The oldest continuously operating amusement park in the United States (1846) had upgrades and improvements done to a few of its major rides this season. Extensive work was done Lake Compounce updated to Wildcat (1927, Herb Sch- four rides this season meck) roller coaster by Martin including the park's & Vleminckx. Park Manager Wildcat coaster with new Jerry Brick explained, “We had track and structure, new them take out the entire nine GCII train (left) and a new tallest bents and structure, the control system (above) with lift hill, the north fantail track video monitoring. and two more sections under- AT/GARY SLADE neath, that intertwined. It was one of those projects that as you Brick explained the thinking Systems. “We had Kerby Wal- tore more down, you just kept process: “One of the things that dren from ACS, who did the going on it.” prompted the switch was that work for Phobia Fear (Premier After Martin & Vleminckx first off the other trains were Sky Rocket II steel coaster) last finished what they were - con older, but as we were looking season, do a new control sys- tracted to do, the park contin- we thought the two seat, one tem for the Wildcat and he did ued fine-tuning the structure. bench cars with the articulat- a great job for us,” said Brick. “The Wildcat structure had a lot ing axles would dramatically “We kept him waiting a bit as of diagonals and horizontals in change the ride which it has. the structure took a bit longer, the bents that were nailed and The other is that we now added and he will be back in the fall to we have been replacing them lap bar monitoring which was do a few small things, but the with thicker dimensional lum- an improved safety [feature] work he did was excellent.” ber and bolting them instead of for the ride.” In addition to the work on nailing to tighten up the struc- Brick was asked how the Wildcat, Martin & Vleminckx ture. We also have done a few new trains are handling the re- was also busy across the mid- other sections of [just the] top built structure. “It is running way doing some overhaul work two layers of track and tighten- well and very fast. I was sur- on the final approach to the sta- ing the track gauge,” said Brick. prised at how much faster the tion of Boulder Dash (Custom The next tweak was the re- ride is compared to last sea- Coasters Int. wood coaster). placement of the existing three- son. The train hugs the corners Again Brick provided the de- n bench Philadelphia Toboggan very well.” tails: “We have various areas re- Coasters trains with Great The final adjustment to tracked. A lot of it was (the) top Naughton Coasters International Millen- that ride is a new safety system two layers and maybe a little Insurance, Inc. nium Flyer single seater cars. done by Automated Control bracing, but the biggest thing we did was take out the triple EST. 1947 up on the return near our trolley barn and replaced it with a Specializing in Insurance Programs for double up. It definitely helped Amusement Parks, Water Parks and and is a different ride experi- Family Fun Centers. ence.” The American Flyers ride (Bisch Rocco eight-tub Flying www.naughtoninsurance.com Scooters park model) received some primping. “The Ameri- can Flyers needed to get some TLC and while we were doing it, we hired J3 designs out of Elba, N.Y. to do a thematic concept and he really did a good job along with our paint team to get a great look on the ride,” explained Brick. Finally, Ghost Hunt (Sally Corp. dark ride) received upgrades. “Lagotronics was hired to replace the targets and guns throughout the ride with an updated system,” said Brick. The scenes remain unchanged. “During that time we did some painting, sound and light improvements throughout the Keep our amusement park industry strong! ride so it should be a good Buy products and services from these suppliers. experience for our guests and they seem to be loving it.” September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 19 20 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 21 22 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 Six Flags Fiesta Texas announces first-of-its-kind coaster for 2018 Rocky Mountain than a sub sandwich. This is a significant sell- provides the Raptor ing point. The slender sleek- Track single-rail ride ness of design offers very little for the rider to see when AT: Tim Baldwin looking over either side of the [email protected] ride vehicle. Because of the nature of the track system, SAN ANTONIO, Texas — fewer supports are needed On August 3, Six Flags Fiesta giving riders even less to see. Texas started the announce- Called Raptor Track, the ment wars by officially re- new concept has been on dis- vealing the first big attraction play at the Rocky Mountain of 2018 in the U.S. Wonder Construction booth at the Woman Golden Lasso Coaster IAAPA Attractions Expo the will debut early next spring. past two years. It is now be- The new ride is being hyped coming a reality. as the world’s first single-rail “It’s very exciting to Six Flags Fiesta Texas will debut Wonder Woman Golden coaster. Typical steel coasters have our new ideas come to Lasso in the spring. It will be the first coaster to feature have two rails, but this in- fruition,” said Fred Grubb, Rocky Mountain Construction’s Raptor Track and will include novative new design of track founder, Rocky Moun- inversions, an overbanked turn and a 90-degree first drop resembles more of an I-beam tain Construction. “We are (right). Riders will be positioned in new trains that sport a or monorail track. Company thrilled as a company to single-file configuration.COURTESY SIX FLAGS FIESTA TEXAS officials joke that its width of have the opportunity to pro- 15.5 inches is not much wider vide this track technology to Six Flags.” look,” said Grubb. as part of the theming pack- “The single rail and sin- Siebert looks forward to age in the 2018 addition. gle-seat trains allow for super many of the rides maneuvers: Wonder Woman has been tight turns, both horizontal “Midway through the ride, in the planning stages for and vertical,” said Alan Schil- there is a real fun series of close to two years, Siebert ke, design engineer. “The ride serpentine turns and a deep said. Theming to the ride will can include vertical drops and drop to the lake feature be- incorporate a storyline from inversions in a tiny footprint low. There are three inver- this year’s hit movie Wonder and provide greater thrill per sions and an overbanked turn Woman. Greek architecture foot of track than any coaster — I’m referring to it as the from the mythic island of The- out there.” most action-packed coaster myscira and a crashed plane Fiesta Texas had also we’ve ever built in the park’s from soldier Steve Trevor will worked with Rocky Moun- history.” be on view as guests queue tain Construction on the 2013 The new addition will for the ride. attraction: Iron Rattler. sport three trains and incor- Siebert remarked that the When asked what at- porate a moving station. track and train configuration tracted the Six Flags team to “There is no doubt in the is one of the unique attributes the new Raptor Track, Park past years we have contin- to the ride. “The track you’re President Jeffrey Siebert told ued to add moving stations riding on is not much wider Amusement Today: “It will be to existing rides to increase than a ruler. You are strad- the first of its kind, which throughput,” said Siebert. dling that with one leg on part of our DNA is innova- “As we were looking at add- either side of the track. The tion. What you can do with ing our new coaster with an track is right underneath you that track — the quick ma- eight-seat configuration, it almost like a saddle. You are neuvers, the ultra-smooth as- was very important to contin- maneuvering over the track pect of it. With a single track, ue that tradition and legacy versus being in the middle of it eliminates the occasional of using the moving station the track which creates a neat bumps that are sometimes because any time we’ve done dynamic and a really cool the result of two rails that it, it is clear that we have in- feel,” he said. are slightly out of alignment. creased the ride throughput. Grubb agrees. “The single You can really create really This year we introduced a file trains make for an even fun twists and turns, extreme moving station on Thunder more thrilling ride as riders drops, and in this case, it will Rapids; last year we added it ‘hug’ the narrow track,” he be the first ride in our park to our Scooby-Doo Sally dark said. “Tighter turns, steep that drops you straight down ride attraction and it almost drops and three inversions at 90 degrees.” doubled the ride capacity; are going to make this coaster Standing next to the and the year before that we a fantastic ride experience. quarry walls that form the added it to Pandemonium, It’s like riding a motorcycle.” backdrop to Fiesta Texas, the which doubled its capacity Schilke laughed, “It’s like new coaster will rise above as well. So, for Wonder Wom- sliding down a giant stair the cliff’s edge at 113 feet and an it was very important to banister — that happens to feature a first drop of 100 feet. come up with a moving sta- go straight down.” A top speed of 53 miles per tion concept.” If all goes to plan, the hour is obtained as the train The new installation will park is setting a spring snaps through more than be erected on the former site break opening target. Won- 1,800 feet of track. “People of Power Surge, a Shoot-the- der Woman Golden Lasso have recently referred to the Chute that opened with the will be the park’s tenth roll- Raptor Track as ‘riding on park (see p. 23 & 26). The er coaster and the fourth to a ribbon in the sky.’ It has park will utilize the water feature design and engineer- its own unique and extreme reservoir from that attraction ing by Schilke. September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 23

Amusement industry invited to the 2017 Golden Ticket Awards Lake Compounce, turers, designers, suppliers and line for hotel reservations has ister and secure your hotel reser- Quassy to host vendors, to be part of the fun at past but rooms remain available vation for the 20th annual year of “The Networking Event of the on a first book basis. Please refer the Golden Ticket Awards.” industry at Networking Year” during the 2017 Golden to www.GoldenTicketAwards. The host parks, Lake Com- Event of the Year Ticket Awards on Friday and com for detailed information pounce and Quassy Amuse- Saturday, Sept. 8-9. and rates. ment Park, are busy gearing up BRISTOL, Conn. — Amuse- GTA attendees are encour- fast: the Doubletree by Hilton “I’d like to personally extend for an unforgettable two days. ment Today, Lake Compounce aged to register for the event at in Bristol, Conn., or Homewood the invitation to our industry to The Golden Ticket Awards are and Quassy Amusement Park www.GoldenTicketAwards. Suites by Hilton in Southington, join us in what promises to be a presented to the “Best of the invite working professionals in com and to make reservations Conn. Special discounted rates wonderful weekend in Connecti- Best” in the amusement indus- the amusement industry such for hotel accommodations im- are available at each property by cut,” says Gary Slade, publisher try and are calculated from an as park owners, operators and mediately at one of the two Host identifying yourself as a Golden and editor-in-chief of Amusement international poll conducted by management and ride manufac- Hotels as rooms are booking Ticket Awards guest. The dead- Today. “Now is the time to reg- Amusement Today. Parks say farewell to three classics NORTH AMERICA — To make room for future additions, three parks have publicly bid farewell to rides that have served their guests in the parks’ history. Two attractions have been with their respective properties since each park opened. Uni- versal’s Islands of Adventure wowed guests when it opened in 1999 with Dueling Dragons. This massive attraction intertwined two Bolliger & Mabillard invert- ed roller coasters — among the most popular rides of the 1990s — and brought riders on each track in visual proximity with each other three times during the ride. The most dramatic of these “duels” was the head-to-head face off entering the attraction’s vertical loops. The visual spec- tacle of this moment — to both riders and spectators — was un- like anything anyone had ever seen in the industry. In time, a loose object incident changed the park policy to prevent them from dueling.

4See RIDES, page 26

Georgia Cyclone gave its farewell rides on July 30. The Dinn-Summers wooden coaster operated for 28 sea- sons. AT/TIM BALDWIN 24 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 25 26 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 RIDES Continued from page 23 Park President Jeffrey Siebert and The makeover of that corner of Marketing Manager the park made a name change as Jeff Filicko take one well: Dragon Challenge. Loosely last ride aboard fitting into the Wizarding World Fiesta Texas’s of Harry Potter, the attraction had its spectacular queue line Power Surge. COURTESY tweaked from the original Fire FIESTA TEXAS and Ice motif to those of Potter- esque dragon names. The loss of this ground- breaking attraction, not only to did in its final years. Low rider- one of several interpretations make way for a new Harry Pot- ship and high operational cost the theme park chain introduced ter attraction, but also attributed factored in to using the space for that paid homage to the New to the massive ride reaching the As Amusement Today went to press, Universal Studios Or- the park’s 2018 attraction. Power York original. Over the years, end of its structural lifespan after Surge closed July 21. most have gone away, this being lando has announced Dragon Challenge will close for good more than 18 years of multi-train Six Flags Over Georgia the third to close. The future of on Labor Day. Opened as Dueling Dragons in 1999, the in- daily operation, will be deeply closed one of the park’s two this ride will be made clear with teraction between trains was state of the art in the amuse- felt in the coaster fan communi- wooden coasters for good on the announcement of the 2018 ties. The ride closed Labor Day. ment industry. AT/GARY SLADE July 30. Georgia Cyclone was Six Flags lineup of attractions. Another park original at- built in 1990 among the wooden Having been given a two- traction to say goodbye was Six it utilized Fiesta Texas’ majestic cool off became more popular. coaster resurgence brought on week notice, many enthusiasts Flags Fiesta Texas’ Power Surge. quarry backdrop. With the park’s While park management found by Dinn and Summers. Having made a final trek to Six Flags An Intamin Shoot-the-Chute, water park included with admis- it melancholy to bid farewell to served the park guests for 28 sea- Over Georgai to pay their re- Power Surge was tucked away sion, the attraction suffered from an original attraction, they freely sons, the ride has been retired. spects and log one more round in the background of the park’s declining ridership over the past admit that their Scrambler gave Based on the Coney Island Cy- in their memories. southeast corner. Structurally quarter century as other ways to more rides than Power Surge clone, this wooden coaster was —Tim Baldwin September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 27 28 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 More Marvel, Pixar, ‘Star Wars’ attractions in store Disney blitzes D23 Expo with worldwide theme park news AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected]

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Throngs of hardcore Disney fans attending this year’s D23 Expo, held July first at Disneyland and then at 14-16, got way more than two big Disney's Hollywood Studios. mouse-earfuls as The Walt Disney Co. announced a slew of attrac- New fun on land, at sea tions and experiences planned for Looking ahead to Walt its properties globally. Disney World’s 50th anniversary More than a dozen new proj- in 2021, there are grand plans to ects representing well over $1 complete the transformation that billion in new investment were started with the debut of New revealed along with sneak peeks Fantasyland in 2014. Among them are changes at at major attractions now in active Disney is moving ahead with the transformation of Paradise Pier into Pixar Pier at Disney development. Bob Chapek, chair- Epcot that will help realize the California Adventure (above); at the Walt Disney World Resort (below), a Guardians of the man of Walt Disney Parks and original vision of the park while Resorts, and several Imagineers making it more timeless and rel- Galaxy attraction and Star Wars-themed hotel are planned. COURTESY THE WALT DISNEY CO. were on hand to provide details. evant. Patterned after the top fam- “On the heels of the many ily attraction at Disneyland Paris, a new and incred- Ratatouille attraction will be added in ibly popular an all-new space in the France pavil- experiences that ion at World Showcase. Epcot just debuted also will be home to an E-ticket this year, the Guardians of the Galaxy ride based best is yet to on the movie franchise. come,” Chapek In Epcot’s Future World, a said. “We have new Green Mission at Mission: Chapek ambitious plans Space already is taking guests for our parks and resorts around on a stunning tour around Earth, the world.” while an updated Orange Mission Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. Marvel Universe through comic the rideshare app Lyft. The service The most anticipated revela- is making the trip to Mars even It will be located in a new area art, films and memorabilia dis- currently is available to guests tions surrounded the under-con- more spectacular. Adjacent to this near Space Mountain. played in art gallery fashion. staying at Disney’s BoardWalk struction Star Wars-themed lands attraction, a new restaurant invit- Also in the Magic Kingdom, Having just opened the high- Resort and Disney’s Yacht and at Disneyland in Anaheim and ing guests to travel high above a new live entertainment venue end, Pacific Northwest-themed Beach Club resorts. Disney’s Hollywood Studios at our planet for an orbital dining inspired by the iconic, early-20th Copper Creek Villas and Cabins Now in development, and the Walt Disney World Resort in adventure is in the works. century Willis Wood Theater at Walt Disney World in July, the stirring some nostalgic excite- Orlando. Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Kansas City, Mo., will bring company is planning its 15th ment, is a new sky ride system A scale model of Star will welcome Mickey and Minnie’s world-class performances to Main Disney Vacation Club property, called Disney Skyliner that will Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, the offi- Runaway Railway, the first-ever Street, U.S.A. the Disney Riviera Resort, to be give guests a birds-eye view of cial name for the lands, was Mickey-themed ride-through The creations of Pixar located near Epcot and tentatively Walt Disney World. It will con- unveiled at the event. Each land attraction. With an original story Animation Studios, meanwhile, completed by fall of 2019. nect Disney’s Art of Animation, will have two anchor attractions, and theme song, the ride will take will play a much-larger role in Transportation also is being Pop Century and Caribbean Beach including one that puts guests guests on a journey inside the both Anaheim and Orlando. upgraded and enhanced at resorts, as well as the proposed right in the middle of a battle wacky and unpredictable world In addition to next sum- Disney’s Central Florida property. new Disney Riviera Resort, with between the First Order and the of the Disney Channel’s Emmy mer’s opening of Toy Story Land Already operating is Minnie Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Resistance inside a hangar bay Award-winning Mickey Mouse ani- at Disney's Hollywood Studios, Van, which utilizes Minnie Mouse- the International Gateway at Epcot. on a Star Destroyer. Visitors also mated shorts, using new technolo- Paradise Pier at Disney California themed taxis in collaboration with • disney.com will have the chance to “fly” the gies to transform the flat cartoon Adventure will be transformed Millennium Falcon. world into a three-dimensional into Pixar Pier — showcasing Chapek described the many experience. more Pixar characters and sto- Disney partners with characters that guests will meet, The biggest ride-related ries from hit films such as The including BB-8, Chewbacca, Rex announcement, ending months of Incredibles and Inside Out. The Void for VR fun and Kylo Ren. Representing the speculation: a version of the most Disney’s waterborne family In a move as experimental as it is experiential, The Walt Disney company’s largest single-themed popular attraction at Shanghai leisure offerings are growing, as Co. is wading into virtual reality (VR) at its Central Florida and South- land expansion at 14 acres per Disneyland — the Tron Lightcycle well, with yet another ship to be ern California properties. park, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge Power Run indoor launch roll- added to the Disney Cruise Line. Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire, described as a “ground- will open in 2019 — debuting er coaster — is headed to Walt The new vessel makes a total of breaking hyper-reality experience,” will open at Disney Springs at the three additional Disney ships that Walt Disney World Resort and Downtown Disney at the Disneyland have been announced over the Resort by the year-end holidays. past year; when completed by The attraction will enable participants to engage with friends, 2023, the fleet will have nearly family and Star Wars characters through a variety of environmental doubled its size to seven. effects melding the physical and digital worlds. Disney and Lindon, Utah-based The Void are collaborating on Themed rooms and ‘zooms’ the project, with Lucasfilm and ILMxLab participating. On the accommodations Notably, Disney CEO Bob Iger was reported to have said earlier front, Disney will attempt its most this year that he was not interested in outfitting park guests with VR experiential concept ever with a headsets. The company has spent billions throughout its history cre- Star Wars Hotel as part of Walt ating highly detailed themed attractions in which to immerse visitors. Disney World’s corresponding new themed land. At Disneyland However, Disney has always explored cutting-edge technology, Paris, the company is adding and Iger has acknowledged that future attractions are likely to in- Disney's Hotel New York — The volve augmented reality — blending digital and actual settings and Art of Marvel, themed around the action. In working outside its theme parks with this new Star Wars- A new guest transportation system called Disney Skyliner world of Super Heroes includ- themed attraction, the company will be giving VR a solid test run just will connect several resort properties with Disney's Holly- ing Iron Man, The Avengers and beyond the gates. wood Studios and Epcot. COURTESY THE WALT DISNEY CO. Spider-Man. Guests at the latter —Dean Lamanna resort will be able to explore the September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 29 30 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 Ohio State Fair ride accident impacting all aspects of industry AT: Pam Sherborne [email protected] FAIRS

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio officials investigating the amusement ride accident that killed one person and injured seven others at the Ohio State Fair July 26 were not re- leasing specifics asAmusement Today went to press. Calls to the Ohio High- way Patrol, the entity leading The day after the accident, the investigation, and to any Ohio Gov. John Kasich ad- investigator involved went dressed reporters on the fair- unreturned. grounds. "We can't speculate The tragedy on the open- on what we'll find," he said. ing day of the fair involved "What we do know is there a Fireball ride, manufactured will be lessons learned in one by KMG, which is based in way or another that can then the Netherlands, and owned be passed on to many of the by fair carnival provider amusement parks and fairs all Amusements of America. across America. One of the ride's six gondolas "This will not define the broke away from the swing- Ohio State Fair. [It] will carry ing, spinning structure during on." A KMG Fireball ride in stationary (above) and operating (below) modes. AT FILE PHOTOS operation, killing 18-year-old National media have re- Tyler Jarrell. ported on beefed up ride in- ball and Spin Out type rides At AT presstime, four of spections and possible chang- while the incident is under in- the seven injured remained es due to the accident. vestigation. hospitalized. Following are some of the "In conjunction with KMG Various theories and developments reported in the B.V., Tivoli is also requiring opinions as to the cause of wake of the accident: the shutdown of all Spin Out the accident, based largely •Immediately follow- (El Niño, Maelstrom, The on bystander video footage, ing the ride accident, KMG Claw) Rides while KMG B.V. emerged in its aftermath. By issued a statement. In that Completes their investigation AT’s presstime, no overall statement, the company said, "During this investigation official statement had been "Until further details are all Spin Out rides manufac- released about what led to known, operators of Fire- tured by Tivoli Enterprises the ride's failure — although ball/Afterburner (FRB24) and Ltd. are now subject to an KMG’s own investigation Move-It (MVT24/MVT32) inspection of the areas sur- identified “excessive corro- type amusement rides are in- rounding this attachment. " sion” inside the affected gon- structed to close operations of •On July 27, producers of dola’s connecting arm as the the ride until further notice." the Delta Fair and Music Fes- apparent cause. •On July 27, Tivoli Mfg. tival, Memphis, canceled their There was an outpouring Ltd. released a statement not- contract with Amusements of of support for the families in- ing: "The construction of the America to provide the mid- volved. Amusements of Amer- Fireball seat is the same de- way during the Sept. 1-10 run. the ride passed inspection. beam dangerously reduced ica and KMG immediately sign as the Spin Out vehicle •Records released showed In addition, the available the beam’s wall thickness released statements to that (also designed By KMG B.V.). that Amusements of America Ohio documents, which go over the years” and “led to regard, as did several amuse- KMG B.V. has ordered the had just previously operated back to 2014, showed the ride the catastrophic failure of the ment industry associations. shutdown of all affected Fire- the Fireball at the New Jer- received annual visual weld ride during operation.” sey's State Fair Meadowlands, inspection of structural com- •The North Carolina 2017 Ohio State Fair attendance June 22-July 9. In New Jersey, ponents and an ultrasonic ex- Department of Labor issued the Department of Commu- amination of gondola pins by a memo to all amusement drops 13 percent compared to 2016 nity Affairs is responsible for an independent engineering device owners stating that, COLUMBUS, Ohio — Officials with the Ohio State inspecting all carnival rides. firm. The ultrasonic exami- effective Aug. 14, "all- own Fair reported approximately 801,031 people attended Every ride is required to un- nation is designed to detect ers of amusement devices the fair this year during its run July 16-Aug. 6. dergo a series of inspections flaws, and no defects were designed with tubular steel This was a 13 percent decrease from the 2016 total that start when it is assembled found in either inspection. components such as sweeps, of 921,214 visitors. for the first time, followed by •On Aug. 7, KMG rep- structural supports, or tubu- “The last several years have seen attendance figures daily inspections when the resentatives conducted their lar steel used in direct con- grow almost annually, but total attendance does fluctu- machine is in use. own investigation of the nection to passenger carriers, ate from year to year based on a number of factors,” •Documents made avail- broken ride. The company are required to be tested for explained Virgil Strickler, fair general manager. able on the Ohio Depart- released a statement which structural defects by a cer- “This year, of course, was not a normal fair year," he ment of Agriculture website said "excessive corrosion" tified nondestructive -com noted. "Opening day’s tragic ride accident, which closed the showed that Amusements of caused the arm to break pany. This requirement will midway for several days, coupled with a few days of cool, America's Fireball ride had apart. be conducted annually in ad- rainy weather, certainly contributed to the dip in attendance. been inspected several times Albert Kroon, product dition to what is required by "Nevertheless, we thank the hundreds of thousands over the course of several manager for KMG, elaborat- the manufacturer of record of devoted fairgoers who supported this great end-of- days as it was being assem- ed in the statement that “ex- for all devices having tubu- summer tradition." bled on the state fairgrounds. cessive corrosion on the inte- lar steel components in its The documents showed that rior of the gondola support design." September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 31 Alameda County Fair, California State Fair draw hundreds of thousands

AT: Pam Sherborne [email protected] FAIRS the first two weeks this year. PLEASANTON, SACRA- “It’s been one of the best MENTO, Calif. — Two of the fairs in every way,” said Alam- state's top fairs wrapped up in eda County Fair CEO Jerome July, with one showing an at- Hoban. “We sincerely appreci- tendance increase and the oth- ate the community’s enthusi- er falling short of 2016 figures. asm and support for the first- The Alameda County ever Opening Day Cattle Drive Fair, Pleasanton, which ran and Western Weekend." June 16-July 9, drew 463,783 Hoban said other high- fairgoers this year, up from lights this year included the the 450,806 in 2016. The Cali- concert lineup, the Fourth of fornia State Fair, Sacramento, July celebration, live Action dropped from 673,237 last year Sports and a great season of to 636,628. horse racing. “We can't just pinpoint one Other popular events in- thing,” Darla Givens, Califor- cluded an RV Demolition and nia State Fair's media director the 4th annual Snackdown, Tower, manufactured by Lar- Butler Amusements was quoted as saying immedi- which crowned Doritos Corn son International and ARM. provided about 70 rides to ately after the fair. on the Cob the new Grand Food sales this year at the the California State Fair, She said it was hard to Champion. Other top winners State Fair grossed an estimated Sacramento. Right, the find that one particular thing included the Deep-Fried Mac $8.5 million and there was an Super Shot, manufactured that may be keeping fairgoers & Cheese Balls, Chicken & estimated $4.2 million in carni- by ARM and Larson away from the state fair event. Rice Pineapple Bowl, and the val ride sales. International, was new to This year the fair experienced Gelato Donut Sandwich. One new event this year the California State Fair this eight days out of 17 where Butler Amusements pro- at the California State Fair was year. Below, the California temperatures rose into triple- vides the midways for both the dedication of "Best of CA: State Fair, Sacramento, digits. the Alameda County Fair Celebrating Farm Workers' did experience a drop in The California State Fair and the California State Fair. Rich Contributions to Food attendance, but those who has experienced a drop in at- There were about 53 rides at and Agriculture." did attend enjoyed the tendance since 2015, which the Pleasanton fair. New rides Returning was soccer, sights and sounds as well as saw 787,833 people. there were the Inversion, man- with the Sacramento Republic transportation on the The Alameda County Fair ufactured by KMG, and The FC playing two games at Papa overhead tram seen here. extended its days this year, Jumping Jungle Funhouse, Murphy's Park. AT/PAM SHERBORNE opening on a Friday instead of manufactured by Kid Power. the following Wednesday, then Butler brings in 70 rides staying open all of the days to the State Fair. New this year during its final week. The fair there was Alien Invasion, man- traditionally closes on Mon- ufactured by Wisdom Indus- days and Tuesday and did that tries, and the Super Shot Drop

FAST FACTS By the Numbers: Alameda County Fair, Pleasanton, Calif. June 16 - July 9 Carnival: Butler Amusements 53: Number of Rides 60 Cowboys, 150 steers: Opening Day Cattle Drive 16,998: BBQ Turkey Legs Consumed 17,834: Competitive Exhibit Entries 32,904: Funnel Cakes Consumed 34,103: Corn Dogs Consumed 45,662: Horse Racing Track Attendance 463,783: Attendance $703,574.26: Jr. Livestock Auction: By the Numbers: California State Fair, Sacramento July 14 - July 30 Carnival: Butler Amusements 56 counties out of 58: Number of Counties Represented 70: Number of Rides 18,100: Turkey Legs Consumed 19,931: Competitive Exhibit Entries 32,500: Horse Racing Track Attendance 35,100: Funnel Cakes Consumed 75,000: Corn Dogs Consumed $270,344: Jr. Livestock Auction 636,628: Attendance 32 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 Canada's Calgary Stampede and K-Days report successful runs AT: Pam Sherborne FAIRS brate Canada's 150th birthday, [email protected] Connell said total revenue is nier weather as an attendance "right on par" with the past CALGARY, EDMON- booster as well as special two years. TON, Alta. — Two Alberta, events that surrounded Can- After last year's dismal at- Canada, fairs reported in- ada's 150th birthday. Fair of- tendance due to poor weather, creases in attendance this year ficials also pointed to a series crowds were back with a ven- over 2016, pleasing fair offi- of promotions on ticket prices geance this year. On July 8 this cials and crowds alike. that had to attribute to the in- year, 107,692 people passed The 2017 Calgary (Alta.) crease in visitor numbers. through the gates, more than Stampede, July 7-16, drew "You actually see an increase 10,000 better than the same 1,214,972 people representing in an audience that normally day a year ago. a 10.4 percent increase over couldn't afford to come down, or Danielle Savoni, public- 2016's rainy fair. pick special days for their oppor- relations manager for the K-Days, Edmonton, Alta., tunity," said Calgary Stampede Stampede, said the public July 19-30, drew 816,000 visi- CEO Warren Connell. embraced all that was new A competitive Pow Wow is a very popular event at K-Days, tors this year. That is a 13,000 But, even with some es- on the grounds. Edmonton, Alta. It is presented in partnership with the fair increase over 2016. pecially steep ticket discounts “Craft breweries have and the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation. COURTESY K-DAYS Stampede organizers this year, including a $1.50 been big and music at the Co- credited warmer and sun- entrance fee on July 11 to cele- ca-Cola Stage," Savoni said. NAME shut down its 2001 Days Rodeo. Other popular She added that many KMG Fireball after the Ohio entertainment included 22 Stampede-goers were from State Fair, Columbus, ride ac- acts on the TD South Stage, the U.S., who ventured across cident involving that same a competitive Pow Wow pre- the border to enjoy the fun and ride. The carnival made a sented in partnership with the Canada's low dollar that hov- statement that the ride would Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, ered around $.78US during not be put back into operation roaming midway entertain- times throughout the fair until its safety could be deter- ment and a fully programmed Rodeo collected big mined. NAME's Fireball had EXPO Centre. crowds as the best in the been recently refurbished. This year saw strong ac- world competed for up to $2 Rain dampened atten- tivation outside the K-Days million in prize money. Chuck dance during K-Days first grounds with several barbe- wagon teams raced for more weekend, but improved as the cues and pancake breakfasts. than $1 million. days progressed. Many were held by commu- NAME (North American “Mother Nature might nity organizations looking to Midway Entertainment) pro- have thrown us a curve ball harness the excitement sur- vided the midway at the Stam- the first weekend, but she rounding the city’s largest N.A.M.E. (North American Midway Entertainment) provides pede as well as for K-Days. came through for us," said Tim summer festival. the midway for both the Calgary (Alta.) Stampede and the The carnival provided about 60 Reid, Northlands president As an ongoing tradition K-Days, Edmonton, Alta., seen in this photo. Both fairs rides to the Calgary event and and CEO. at K-Days, Northlands sup- reported increases in attendances this year over the 2016 just under 50 to K-Days. Reid partly attributed the ports a variety of not-for- events. COURTESY K-DAYS It was during K-Days that numbers to the inaugural K- profit organizations. Rosedale Attractions and Shows having a good season AT: Pam Sherborne FAIRS process of refurbishing them. [email protected] The remaining 11 rides helped grandchildren on the midway. him barter for a Tivoli Orbiter FISHERSVILLE, Va. — They ride these rides. I will not from Sherwood Amusements. Rosedale Attractions and operate a ride that I don't think He is now having that redone Shows has been playing the is safe for my grandchildren. If as well. Augusta County Fair, Aug. there is a questions with oper- Rosedale Attractions, 1-5, for 19 years and have en- ation, I will shut it down." based in Baltimore, Md., joyed it every year. Gaylin said he is constant- plays five spots in Virginia, "This is a night fair," said ly upgrading, redoing and then heads back north. The Rosedale Amusements' owner purchasing. For this season, he Augusta County Fair is the Tom Gaylin. "It is a smaller purchased a new Otterbacher first Virginia date, followed fair. We have about 20 rides bunk house and is having his by the Richmond County here. It is really a nice fair." Chance Zipper refurbished Fair, Warsaw, Va., Aug. 8-12; AT visited Gaylin just by Mike Featherston, Gold Clark Co. Fair, Berryville, Va., days after the Ohio State Fair Star Manufacturing. Denny's Aug. 14-19; Chesterfield (Va.) ride accident on July 26. He Electronics is installing a light County Fair, Aug. 25-Sept. 2; Rosedale Attractions' Tom Gaylin and his wife, Barbara had had visits from local me- package on that ride. and Amelia (Va.) County Fair, Gaylin, are seen here with their grandsons, Aiden Gaylin, dia wanting comments about He has new flags from Sept. 4-9. left, and Jordan Gaylin. They were on the midway of the the Ohio incident and ride Chestnut Identity Apparel The carnival then heads Augusta County Fair, Fishersville, Va., Aug. 1-5. AT/PAM SHERBORNE safety. Gaylin said it had be- and new canvas from Water- back to Maryland to finish up come tiring. loo Tent and Tarp. He bought the season, which starts in April "You know, I have known a used Larson International and goes through October. daughters, Nichole Gaylin- Two other families Gay- Amusements of America (the Electric 7 Tilt-A-Whirl from D Rosedale Attractions is a Smith and her husband, lin considers extended family Ohio fair carnival provider & K Amusements. family business. On the mid- John Smith, and Michelle are Bill and Sue Shreve and and owner of the Fireball) for Gaylin purchased about way with Gaylin is his wife, Gaylin Farrow and her hus- Kristy and Wayne Hinton. a very long time," he said. "We 17 rides from the now shut- Barbara, and their twin sons band, Ray Farrow, and their These families have game operate in very similar ways. tered Billet Amusements. He Jason Gaylin (Dottie Gaylin) families also take part in the concessions and help move We have our children and our kept six of them and is in the and Joey Gaylin. Their two business. the show. September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 33 34 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 MIDWAY On the Road: Powers Great American Midways MARKET PLACE

P.O. Box 238 Merino, CO. 80741 Powers Great American Midway personnel were on hand at the Big Butler Fair. Shown here are (l to r): Joe Zutter, Mark Janas, Charlie Corl, Debbie Powers, Dean Corl and 800-634-6097 970-522-7515 Fax: 970-522-2902 Corky Powers. AT/B. DEREK SHAW [email protected] www.wisdomrides.com

Right, Powers Great American Midway took procession of a new Kolmax-plus (Ostrava, Czech Republic) Dodgem Autoscooter ride for the 2017 season. Measuring 80 by 55 feet the 30-ton, one-trailer (including cars,) crowd pleaser is named Chop Shop. Below, the 162nd Big Butler Fair, Prospect, Pa. had 34 rides provided by Powers Great American Midway, who has been playing this spot the past 30 years. The nine- day event, always over the Fourth of July holiday, operates on a 150-acre site, eight miles west of Butler, Pa. AT/B. DEREK SHAW

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Keep our amusement park industry strong! Buy products and services from these suppliers. September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 35 California Mid-State MIDWAYLIGHTS COMPILED: Pam Sherborne Fair a success [email protected] PASO ROBLES, Calif. FAIRS Officials at the Kentucky State Fair, Louis- Parade and Cattle Drive down one of Puyallup's — Multiple new attractions, ville, showed fairgoers many changes during its major road arteries is set for Sept. 8. It includes a new midway provider The lower ride prices 2017 run, Aug. 17-2. equestrian drill teams, school marching bands, and the new 100,000-sq.-ft. were one reason for selecting The midway was perhaps the biggest horse hitches and costume characters. Paso Robles Pavilion helped Helm and Sons. Individual change. It was renamed Thrill Ville and was re- Funtastic Shows provides the midway with boost attendance at the 2017 ride tickets were priced at 50 located on the main lot in front of Freedom Hall. more than 70 rides and attractions. California Mid-State Fair. cents each and the number of NAME (North American Midway Entertainment) • The unofficial atten- tickets per ride varied from provides the midway at the fair. The Eastern States Expositions, the Big dance was 428,615 during four to 12. The maximum Another big change was the new traffic ex- E, is scheduled for Sept. 15-Oct. 1, and officials the July 19-30 run. press lane, which officials hoped would alleviate there are busy getting preparations in order. price per ride regardless of traffic tie-ups. Attractions and exhibits this year include the ride (even the largest, A new app was introduced by Kentucky the Michelangelo Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition, most extreme rides), were no State Fair officials aimed at helping fairgoers get sponsored by Uncommon USA," Eastern States more than $6. their hands on advanced tickets to the fair. It was Exposition: A Walk Through History; Camel King- Food and beverage sales available on Google Play and the App Store. A dom; Everything that Matters in the Kitchen saw a jump in 2017 over fairgoer not only could get advanced tickets from Cooking Show with Dianne Linderman; CARS, 2016, as well, with food sales the app, but they also were able to plan their CARS, CARS, with a new group of collector, clas- increasing 14 percent and fair trip with a complete schedule and discover sic and custom cars lining the grounds, among beverage sales up 19 percent. Tastes of the Fair favorites. Beacon technology just a few shows. Revenue from the 2017 allowed users to see where they were in real time And, of course, fair foods are always a draw, livestock auctions also were on a map of the fairgrounds. The app also found and from the Big E signature desserts such as the up compared to last year. the easiest route to other locations at the fair- Big E Cream Pull and Big Eclair, to The Big E Craz- A total of $2,483,911 was grounds, including bathrooms and food vendors. E Burger, there is an endless supply. Helm and Sons Amuse- • New 2017 foods include: Amy’s Sweet raised on 851 animals. Of Another fair, the Illinois State Fair, India- Treats’ Belgian Waffle Sandwich; Hofbrau Joe’s ments, Inc., of Colton, Calif., that, $445,000 came from the napolis, continued its trek into the digital age. Burger Bomb; the West Springfield Lions Club’s was selected as the new car- Replacement Heifer Sale, In 2016, the fair unveiled a new mobile app that Flatliner Burger; the Coffee Break’s Deep Fried nival provider for the 2017 a 29 percent increase, and allowed fairgoers to customize their visit to the Holy Cannoli; Tots-A-Lot’s Gourmet Tater Tots; fair. The carnival brought in $2,038,911 came from the Ju- state fairgrounds. This year, the fair offered an the Deep South’s Waffle Chicken Bites; Pop ‘N almost 35 rides to the fair. nior Livestock Auction. online payment option for gate admission, park- Fresh’s Pumpkin Pie Funnel Cake; Porky’s BBQ “I can’t even begin to tell Livestock entries also ing passes and mega passes with more features Brisket Sundae; Burgundy Brook Café’s Sweet you the number of compli- were up this year. added as this year's fair dates approached. The Pepper Bacon; Deluca’s Chicken Parmigiana ments we received regarding For the first time in 49 Illinois State Fair ran August 4-20. Sandwich; and Hofbrau Joe’s Clam Box will offer the new carnival this year,” years, more than 90,000 The fair was able to scan fairgoers' phones Fried Shrimp Tacos. said Mid-State Fair CEO Mi- concert tickets were sold for instead of fairgoers having to print hard tickets. The Big E midway is provided by NAME chael Bradley. the 2017 Bud Light Concert Of course, that also was option through the app. (North American Midway Entertainment). Despite having lower Series. • • overall ride prices than in Attendance at the an- And, still another state fair offered a digital NAME (North American Midway Entertain- upgrade to fairgoers. Magic Money LLC, an- ment) provides the midway at the Kentucky State past years, the new carni- nual Cattlemen & Farmers nounced in July that its full-service Radio-Fre- Fair. val generated $555,500 in Day hit an all-time high with quency Identification (RFID) based event man- A combination of good weather, Clydesdales revenue for the fair, slightly over 1,000 lunch and dinner agement system was to be utilized at the 2017 and family entertainment helped push fair atten- above the 2016 figure. tickets sold. Iowa State Fair, which took place August 10-20 dance over 200,000 for the first time at theMon - in Des Moines. roe (Mich.) County Fair, July 30-Aug. 5. Fairgoers at the Thrill Park could easily ac- A total of 33,032 people came to the 2017 cess all rides and games simply by scanning their fair on its final day Saturday, boosting the total for Magic Money wristbands. This year marked the the entire seven-day fair to 205,230. first time the fair implemented digital software to And the Clydesdales “definitely” had some- facilitate ride and game payments. thing to do with it, said Darryl Diamond, who • completed his first fair as manager after working Officials at the Washington State Fair, Puy- with 4-H for a couple of years. allup, were set and ready to go at the first of Au- Fair attendance easily topped the previous gust, announcing new and tried and true events. record of 192,647 set last year by 12,583 and the Some of the new attractions this year include 190,158 people who came in 2015. the best of Washington craft beer and music pre- NAME (North American Midway Entertain- viewed daily with 24 taps. A beer created, with ment) provided the midway. inspiration from The Fair, Puyallup River Brew- • ing will debut a new brew at the End of Summer The giant Ferris wheel co-owned by Frank Bash, on Labor Day. The beer will then be sold Zaitshik, Wade Shows, and Michael Wood exclusively at the Washington State Fair in various made its debut on the independent midway of locations throughout the grounds. the Wisconsin State Fair, West Allis, Aug. 3-13. The Giant Insect Adventure, a new paid ex- It was the first of three consecutive appear- hibit, will let fairgoers enter into a world where ances at state fairs for the new attraction over the insect models tower over humans 40 to 120 times next 30 day. The Lamberink RL45 debuted at the larger than the insect's actual size. 2017 Florida State Fair, Tampa, in February. Washington's Imagination Workshop is an- It has been off the road since so that the other new exhibit. Kids of all ages create, dig and owners could install lights on the 36 gondolas build with a variety of tools and toys. and rerack it to fit 11 trailers. Back by popular demand is the Super After the Wisconsin event, the wheel was to Headquarters after being a hit last year. This be part of the independent midway at the Min- exhibit invites fans to visit a variety of superhe- nesota State Fair, St. Paul, Aug. 24-Sept. 4. The roes on particular dates. A schedule is provided third spot is the Oklahoma State Fair, Oklaho- by the fair. ma City, Sept. 14-24. Wade Shows provides that The Washington State Fair Western Rodeo midway. 36 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 37

BUSINESS, SAFETY & CLASSIFIED  OBITUARIES — Page 38 / MARKETWATCH — Page 39 / SAFETY — Page 43-45 / CLASSIFIEDS — Page 46 NEAAPA Summer Meeting held at Edaville Family Theme Park AT: Ron Gustafson Special to Amusement Today

CARVER, Mass. – Edaville Family Theme Park was the host of the New England As- sociation of Amusement Parks and Attractions’ (NEAAPA) Annual Summer Meeting on July 25. More than 80 members were registered for the day-long event, sponsored by member suppliers Premier Rides, Bal- timore, Md., Dippin Dots, Pa- ducah, Ky., and NXT Capture, Jon Delli Priscoli (right) took NEAAPA members on a tour This Eli Ferris wheel provided a backdrop as the NEAAPA Orlando, Fla. of Edaville during the organization’s summer meeting at the Summer Meeting at Edaville drew to a close. Following late-morning Carver, Mass., park. COURTESY RON GUSTAFSON/NEAAPA COURTESY RON GUSTAFSON/NEAAPA registration, the group gathered for lunch at the park’s barbecue provides a spectacular view of PA members took in the leisurely pavilion where General Man- Edaville’s Christmas Festival excursion during the afternoon. ager Brenda Johnson and CEO/ of Lights, which features more More than 30 attended the President Jon Delli Priscoli wel- than 18 million lights. association’s board meeting at 4 comed everyone to the property. The Cran Central ride area p.m. in the Thomas Land Party During his talk, the park further back into the property Room with NEAAPA President president pointed out that Walt includes classics such as an Eli Dorothy Lewis presiding. Disney once visited the prop- Bridge Scrambler, Sellner Tilt- A traditional cocktail hour erty decades ago as Disney was A-Whirl and a rare Allan Her- followed with dinner served af- developing plans for his Cali- schell Astronaut. The park re- ter the park closed at 6 p.m. in fornia theme park, Disneyland. cently added a Spinning Lady a tented area overlooking the He also told the gathering that Bug Coaster from SBF/VISA pond. Featured speaker during the many antiques prominently Group of Italy. The ride was dinner was Gina Romano vice displayed throughout Edaville supplied by Rides 4U of Somer- president, marketing and sales, are from his private collections. ville, N.J., a NEAAPA member. of new NEAAPA member sup- The vast compilation includes In 2015 Edaville opened plier Martin & Vleminckx of toy trains, dolls, signs and vin- Thomas Land, based on the pop- Haines City, Fla. An afternoon tour included the Edaville shops, where his- tage farm equipment in the park ular Public Broadcasting cartoon As a board member of toric trains and a calliope (foreground) are being restored. museum. series Thomas & Friends about a the International Association COURTESY RON GUSTAFSON/NEAAPA Tours of the historic park, number of steam locomotives of Amusement Parks and At- which is surrounded by cranber- that work on the fictional island tractions’ Foundation, she dis- ry bogs, took place after lunch of Sodor. cussed the value of the founda- with Johnson and Delli Priscoli “I completed the project in tion and member properties in leading the way. six months,” the park owner helping to shape the leaders of NEAAPA members were said of the massive expansion tomorrow within the industry. treated to a firsthand look at which includes 11 new rides, NEAAPA members will how Edaville, purchased in 2002 shops and a show featuring the gather again during the IAAPA by Delli Priscoli, has changed in trains. The mix of family rides in Attractions Expo in November recent years. Thomas Land are from Zamper- in Orlando, Fla. NEAAPA has a Adjacent to the Cran Cen- la, another NEAAPA supplier booth on the trade show floor, tral Junction building stands a member. an annual luncheon and the Tom vintage 1953 Eli Bridge 60-foot Of course, the star attrac- Morrow Dinner & Social, honor- Ferris wheel overlooking the tion at the park is riding aboard ing the late past president, who pond and park entrance. Dur- the Edaville Railroad pulled by was also known as Mr. NEAAPA. More than 30 were on hand for the NEAAPA board of direc- ing the holiday season, the ride Thomas himself. Many NEAA- • www.neaapa.com. tors meeting at Edaville. COURTESY RON GUSTAFSON/NEAAPA

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LOS ANGELES, Calif. — grace and indomitable spirit.” at [this past July’s] D23 Expo, fessional in the themed enter- Martin A. “Marty” Sklar, a trail- A native of New Brunswick, Marty left an indelible mark on tainment industry.” blazing Disney Imagineer, died N.J., who later made his way to Disney parks around the globe Sklar’s impact and achieve- at his Hollywood Hills home on California, Sklar was a UCLA and the guests who make mem- ments were recognized with a July 27. He was 83. student and aspiring sports ories every day with us. He was number of prestigious awards During a career spanning 54 journalist as editor of the uni- one of the few people fortunate and accolades, including the years, Sklar worked closely with versity’s Daily Bruin newspaper to attend the opening of every Lifetime Achievement award Walt Disney and was instru- when he was recruited to create single Disney park in the world, from the Themed Entertain- mental in creating, enhancing The Disneyland News for Walt’s from Anaheim in 1955 to Shang- ment Association, induction and expanding Disney’s creative new theme park in 1955. After hai just last year.” into the Hall of Fame of the vision. Honored as a Disney graduating the following year, Added Bob Weis, president International Association of Legend in 2001, he was known he joined Disney full-time and Martin A. Sklar of Walt Disney Imagineering: Amusement Parks and Attrac- and revered by fans around the would go on to serve as Walt’s “Marty was one of Walt’s most tions, and the prestigious Pro- world for his work bringing Dis- right-hand man — scripting on July 17, 2009: Disneyland’s trusted advisors and helped fessional Achievement Award ney’s theme parks to life. speeches, marketing materials, 54th birthday. turn his most ambitious dreams from UCLA. “Everything about Marty and a film showcasing Walt’s vi- Disney marked the occasion into reality. For us, it’s hard to Sklar is survived by his wife was legendary — his achieve- sion for Walt Disney World and by paying tribute to Sklar with the imagine a world without Marty, of 60 years, Leah; a son, How- ments, his spirit, his career,” said Epcot in Central Florida. highest recognition in the com- because Marty is synonymous ard; a daughter, Leslie; and four Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of During this early period, Sk- pany’s parks and resorts division, with Imagineering. His influ- grandchildren. The Walt Disney Co. “He em- lar also joined WED Enterprises, dedicating a window in his name ence can be seen around the Memorial donations in bodied the very best of Disney, the forerunner of Walt Disney on Disneyland’s City Hall. world, in every Disney park, Sklar’s name may be made to from his bold originality to his Imagineering, and later became Describing him as “the ulti- and in the creative and imagina- Ryman Arts at www.ryman- joyful optimism and relentless its creative leader — spearhead- mate Disney Imagineer and Cast tive work of almost every pro- arts.org. drive for excellence. He was also ing the development of Disney Member,” Bob Chapek, chair- a powerful connection to Walt theme parks and attractions for man of Walt Disney Parks and Sally Corporation mourns himself. No one was more pas- the next three decades. He re- Resorts, recalled of Sklar: “From sionate about Disney than Mar- tired as executive vice president his days working as an intern ty; we’ll miss his enthusiasm, and Imagineering Ambassador with Walt to engaging with fans death of Harold Esposito JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Sally Corporation announced the passing of a key team member and friend: Animation Su- pervisor and long-time employee Harold Esposito, who died suddenly on Aug. 4. “For over 30 years, Harold was a vital member of the Sally family. We lost a great friend and brother today,” said CEO John Wood. “Throughout his Harold Esposito career he led the way as we as a member of our family. His developed animatronic figures memory will be cherished by and show action equipment for all who were blessed to know parks around the world. He al- him.” ways embodied a can-do spirit “Harold was an extraordi- that helped us design and de- nary, one-of-a-kind leader who velop extraordinary creations in envisioned some of Sally’s most our animation department.” memorable and loved anima- Harold seemed to be born tronics,” said Todd Gillrup, with innate problem-solving Sally’s VP of operations. “Har- mechanical skills and always old led his fabrication team with maintained a willingness to lifelong industry experience mentor others along the way. and brilliant imagination.” He began his career with the Esposito's colleagues also Disney Imagineers, producing noted that he was commonly figures for Epcot and Tokyo known for his quirky personal- Disneyland. In the early '80s ity, motorcycle riding, practical he returned to Jacksonville and jokes, an occasional craft beer joined the Sally team. We were with friends, and especially his extremely fortunate to have him love for his wife, Margaret. Obituary clarification The obituary of theme park designer Ira West in the July issue of Amusement Today contained some inaccuracies. West did not work as a film industry set designer. He had a bachelor’s degree in industrial design from UCLA and his first full-time job, following his service in the U.S. Navy, was at Cannell & Chaffin interior design in Los Angeles. Additionally, West lived in the L.A. coastal community of Pacific Palisades. He continued designing theme parks well into the 1990s. September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39 BUSINESS WATCH MARKETWATCH Disney reports Q3 and nine months earnings BURBANK, Calif. — The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS) re- PRICE HIGH LOW COMPANY SYMBOL MARKET ported on Aug. 8 quarterly earnings for its third fiscal quarter end- 08/10/17 52-Week 52-Week ed July 1, 2017. Diluted earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter The Blackstone Group BX NYSE 32.30 35.09 23.33 decreased 5 percent to $1.51 from $1.59 in the prior-year quarter. Excluding certain items affecting comparability, EPS for the quarter Merlin Entertainments Group/ MERL LSE 463.90 537.50 422.5 decreased 2 percent to $1.58 from $1.62 in the prior-year quarter. Legoland Diluted EPS for the nine months ended July 1, 2017 decreased to $4.55 from $4.63. Excluding certain items affecting comparability, EPS Cedar Fair, L.P. FUN NYSE 64.25 72.56 56.23 for the nine months increased to $4.63 from $4.61. Parks and Resorts Comcast Corp./ revenues for the quarter increased 12 percent to $4.9 billion and CMCSA NASDAQ 40.73 42.18 30.02 NBCUniversal Media segment operating income increased 18 percent to $1,168 million. Operating income growth for the quarter reflected an increase at The Walt Disney Company DIS NYSE 101.35 116.10 90.31 our international operations, while results at our domestic operations were comparable to the prior-year quarter. Segment results Dubai Parks & Resorts DXBE:UH DFM 0.81 1.77 0.73 benefited from the timing of the Easter holiday, which fell in the third quarter of the current year compared to the second quarter of the EPR Properties EPR NYSE 67.75 81.61 65.50 prior year.

Fuji Kyoko Co., Ltd. 9010 TYO 1138.00 1282.00 950.00 SeaWorld reports second quarter results ORLANDO, Fla. — SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: SEAS), Haicahang Holdings Ltd. HK:2255 SEHK 1.69 1.95 1.53 a leading theme park and entertainment company, reported on Aug. 8 its financial results for the second quarter and first half of 2017. Dur- Leofoo Development Co. TW:2705 TSEC 8.13 9.00 7 ing the second quarter of 2017, the company generated revenue of $373.8 million, an increase of $2.6 million, or 1 percent, compared MGM Resorts International MGM NYSE 30.51 34.53 23.38 to the second quarter of 2016. The increase in revenue reflects an increase in attendance for the quarter, due primarily to the shift in the Parques Reunidos Servicios ES:PQR MCE 15.86 17.45 11.99 timing of Easter into the second quarter of 2017. The company re- Centrales S.A. ported a net loss of $175.9 million, or a loss of $2.05 per diluted share SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. SEAS NYSE 12.68 20.13 11.1 in the second quarter of 2017. Net loss for the second quarter of 2017 includes a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $269.3 million related to the full impairment of goodwill for the company's SeaWorld Six Flags Entertainment Co. SIX NYSE 54.51 65.19 47.61 Orlando park. In the second quarter of 2016, the company generated net income of $17.8 million, or $0.21 per diluted share. During the DreamEast Group Ltd. HK:0593 SEHK 13.10 14.2 12.5 first half of 2017, the company generated revenue of $560.1 million, a decrease of $31.3 million, or 5 percent, compared to the same Tivoli A/S DK:TIV CSE 605.00 676.00 425.00 period in 2016. Village Roadshow VRL ASX 3.99 5.45 3.22 Cedar Fair reports second quarter results STOCK PRICES ABOVE ARE GENERALLY QUOTED IN THE FOREIGN SANDUSKY, Ohio — Cedar Fair Entertainment Company (NYSE: CURRENCY IN WHICH THE COMPANY IS LOCATED FUN), announced on Aug. 2 results for the second quarter ended June Worldwide Markets: ASX, Australian Securities Exchange; CSE, Copenhagen Stock Exchange; LSE, London Stock Exchange; NYSE, 25, 2017, discussed attendance and guest spending trends through July New York Stock Exchange; NASDAQ, National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations; SEHK, Hong Kong Stock and declared a quarterly cash distribution. For the quarter ended June Exchange; SZSE, Shenzhen Stock Exchange; TSEC, Taiwan Stock Excange, Corp.; TYO/TSE, Tokyo Stock Exchange 25, 2017, net revenues increased 1percent, or $5 million, to a record —SOURCES: Bloomberg.com; Wall Street Journal $393 million compared with $388 million in 2016. This increase reflects DIESEL PRICES a 2 percent, or 134,000-visit, increase in attendance and a 3 percent, or $1 million, increase in out-of-park revenues when compared with the Region As of Change from second quarter of 2016. Average in-park guest per capita spending was (U.S.) 08/07/17 1 year ago comparable with the same period last year. Excluding a non-core, stand- East Coast $2.613 +$0.292 alone water park that was closed in September 2016, attendance on a Midwest $2.543 +$0.268 same-park basis increased 3 percent, or 203,000 visits. Today, the com- Gulf Coast $2.410 +$0.226 pany also announced the declaration of a cash distribution of $0.855 per LP unit, which is consistent with its targeted annualized distribution Mountain $2.673 +$0.277 rate of $3.42 per LP unit. The distribution will be paid on September 15, West Coast $2.747 +$0.293 2017 to unitholders of record as of September 6, 2017. California $2.930 +$0.223 CURRENCY Six Flags reports second quarter revenue GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — Six Flags Entertainment Corpo- On 08/10/17 $1 USD = ration (NYSE: SIX), recently announced that for the quarter ended 0.8515 EURO June 30, 2017, revenue increased $15 million or 4 percent, as com- 0.7693 GBP (British Pound) pared to the same period in 2016, to $422 million. This was primarily 109.90 JPY (Japanese Yen) driven by a 5 percent increase in attendance to 9.5 million guests 0.9657 CHF (Swiss Franc) and an 18 percent increase in sponsorship and international licens- 1.2687 AUD (Australian Dollar) ing revenue, partially offset by a 2 percent decline in guest spending per capita. Adjusting for the approximately 380,000 guest visits that 1.2693 CAD (Canadian Dollar) shifted from the first quarter to the second quarter due to the timing of Easter, second quarter 2017 attendance grew 1 percent. 40 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017

ThisM spaceuseu is provided courtesym of Amusement P Todayrogress, a corporate partner of the National R Roller Coasterep Museumort & Archives. ACE members tour NRCMA's building progress THIS MONTH Members of the American Coaster Enthusiasts (above) IN HISTORY hailing from five states re- Presented by the National Roller Coaster Museum cently paid a visit to the AT: Richard Munch NRCMA storage/archival facility in Plainview, Texas, SEPTEMBER while also visiting two tradi- •1968: The ‘Greatest Ride Ever Built’, the Cyclone Racer, ended its tional Texas parks: Joyland 38 year reign at Long Beach, California, on September 15, 1968, and Wonderland. They were when it gave its last ride. Over the next month, it was demolished for new road construction leading to the permanently docked Queen visibly impressed by the dis- Mary. Ironically, in recent years, much has been written about the played collection and found twin-tracked coaster, designed by Frederick Church in 1929. Several the forward momentum in- news articles have claimed there may be plans in the works to bring credibly encouraging. Below back the giant coaster. Although it would be in a new location, time are two views of the grow- will tell if politicians and city representatives might see the benefit of ing vehicle and signage col- recreating something that remains in the minds of its citizens, as a tool lections currently on display to bring tourism to the city. at the facility. AT/TIM BALDWIN, GARY SLADE •1971: On September 6, Coney Island, the river front amusement park in East Cincinnati, Ohio, officially closed. It opened on June 21, 1886 as Ohio Grove, the Coney Island of the West - the name was later shortened to simply Coney Island. Because of the countless flooding from the Ohio River during the eight decades of operation, Taft Entertainment had the opportunity to purchase the property in 1969. The following year, a new enterprise named Kings Island, was already under construction in Mason, Ohio, replacing the famous amusement center. While many of the park’s rides were moved to the new location, Coney Island’s last wood coaster, the 1947 Shooting Star, was razed although partially recreated in the new park with the Racer – as a high capacity twin tracked racing coaster. Coney Island eventually reopened in 1973 utilizing its enormous pool and picnic venues.

•1977: Taking a small pay cut, Tom Rebbie saw potential in taking on a new position with the Philadelphia Toboggan Company in Lansdale, Pennsylvania. On Sept. 19, Rebbie worked drilling holes in the floor boards of new coaster cars for $4.25 per hour (he had left a job that paid $12 more a week in salary). Under the direction of company president Sam High III, Rebbie assumed the position of General Manager in 1985. Rebbie purchased the company outright with a partner in 1991, changing the name to Philadelphia Tobog- gan Coasters. The world's oldest roller coaster company moved to a larger facility in nearby Hatfield in 1999. Rebbie has kept up with the industry with new products such as the PTCI 360 Coaster Cars and the Accessible Transfer Seat (now patented). One could almost say that Rebbie has never looked back during his successful 40-year stint in the amusement industry. September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 41 42 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 Ride Entertainment receives PEOPLE WATCH Swanson named SeaWorld CFO Her background in accounting and finance make her a 2017 Bright Lights Award ORLANDO, Fla. — SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc., perfect fit for this new role. Marien has named Marc G. Swanson as chief financial officer will join industry expert, Ben Jones, STEVENSVILLE, Md. — and treasurer. Swanson most recently in helping entertainment and bowling Ride Entertainment Group reserved as SeaWorld's chief accounting centers identify financing opportunities cently announced that its pro- officer, a position to which he was ap- to grow and update their businesses. lific and pioneering work in the pointed in 2012. He is a member of the “Marien brings the perfect blend of attractions industry earned the board of directors of the SeaWorld and financial and lending experience to the Family Entertainment and Bowling company the 2017 Bright Lights Busch Gardens Conservation Fund Center lending team. With the growth Stark Award for Innovation and Entrepreneurship from Maryland and the board of trustees of the Orlan- do Science Center. SeaWorld also an- of the industry overall, Marien is help- Comptroller Peter Franchot. nounced the appointment of Elizabeth Swanson ing to expand our current reach and open new market The Comptroller's Bright Lights Award recognizes and cele- C. Gulacsy as chief accounting officer, segments. The depth she adds to the team will also en- brates innovation in the private and nonprofit sectors. One com- replacing Swanson. Gulacsy served previously as corporate sure that our core business and existing customers are well pany from each of Maryland's 23 counties and Baltimore City vice president, financial reporting, for the company. cared for and supported,” stated Ben Jones, FEC Lend- were honored. Headquartered at the Chesapeake Bay Business ing general manager. Before joining the FEC team, Marien Coca-Cola Orlando Eye hires new GM worked with Live Oak’s eLending department. During this Park in Stevensville, Ride Entertainment received the Bright ORLANDO, Fla. — The Coca-Cola Orlando Eye time, she focused on loans under $350,000 for several in- Lights Award for Queen Anne's County. has announced that Jacob Kristensen has been hired dustries but primarily served FEC borrowers. "We have a great commitment to developing world-class as the attraction’s new general man- entertainment systems, and we're honored to represent Queen ager. As general manager, Kristensen Jackson named GM Legoland Fla. WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — Rex Jackson, a market- Anne's County and the state of Maryland as leaders in our in- will oversee all operations for the Or- lando Eye, including business devel- ing and sales executive who helped dustry," said Ed Hiller, CEO of Ride Entertainment. "We're an lead Legoland Florida Resort from adventure and amusement powerhouse that came from humble opment, marketing and engineering. “Jacob Kristensen is a welcome ad- a single theme park into a multi-day beginnings, so we're excited to receive this recognition and make dition to the Coca-Cola Orlando Eye vacation destination, has been named our home state proud." team,” said Patrick Connor, south- the resort’s new general manager, U.K. parent company Merlin Enter- The company is known for its many record-breaking roller east general manager, Merlin Enter- Kristensen coasters and award-winning family attractions including Sky- tainments. “Kristensen’s experience tainments Group announced. Jack- in the industry and proven track record for increasing son joined the resort in 2014 as vice coaster, the world's most popular thrill ride; the SeaGlass Carou- president of marketing and sales and Jackson sel, located at the Battery in Manhattan, New York; hair-raising profitability and attracting new audiences made him a prime candidate for this role.” Most recently, he was the will begin his new role Aug. 1, succeeding Adrian Jones. roller coasters at Dollywood and many others. director of sales and development at the Center of Sci- Jackson inherits responsibility for the day-to-day opera- "Fueled by Ed Hiller's innovative and entrepreneurial spirit ence and Industry (COSI) in Columbus, Ohio. tion and strategic direction of the sprawling vacation re- and with the help of his dedicated and hardworking employees, sort, which has drawn millions of visitors from around the Ride Entertainment has become one of the world's largest entertain- Stark joins Live Oak Bank globe since it opened in 2011.“Rex is keenly aware of what makes the Legoland brand so special,” Jones said, ment sales enterprises," said Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot. WILMINGTON, N.C. — Live Oak Bank has announced the promotion of Marien Stark as a loan spe- “and what makes our resort so incredibly unique among •rideentertainment.com cialist to the Family Entertainment Center lending team. vacation destinations.” September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 43 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION Partnering with the industry on sensible regulation Oklahoma labor commissioner rewrites state’s ride safety rules AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected]

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — As the mom of two growing boys, Melissa McLawhorn Houston is no stranger to amusement parks and water parks. As the labor commissioner for the Oklahoma Department of Labor, she also happens to be responsible for overseeing the regulation and safety of industry in Oklahoma. amusement rides operating in “What it doesn’t need is a the state. regulator playing ‘Gotcha!’ or Over the past year, one who is trying to profit from Commissioner Houston — the regulation,” she said. “If working with the industry there is mutual concern for the and the state’s five full-time public’s safety, then why can’t ride inspectors — has care- we work together to create an fully reviewed and revised environment that provides the Oklahoma’s amusement ride best possible safety? My pro- and equipment regulations. cess is not just to spend time in The old rules, which had not the statutes and administrative Oklahoma Labor Commissioner Melissa McLawhorn Houston (above center) at Frontier City been updated in over two rules, but to visit with the peo- with her inspection and support team (from left): Allen McElyea, Jeffrey Day, James Choate decades, did not fit current ple impacted by this agency.” Paul Peepers, Brittoni Lantz, Jim Buck and Christina Foss. business models. Indeed, seeking input from COURTESY OKLAHOMA DEPT. OF LABOR “I’m an attorney and my the industry was key. Houston background is in public policy, told Amusement Today that she ed around traveling carnivals. their input. They’ve been so — prompted by operators — where I’ve done a lot of work consulted with various amuse- How many inspections you do, helpful in working with us on has addressed the issue of ride in terrorism and public safe- ment businesses around the when you do the inspections best practices.” height restrictions through a ty,” said the former Oklahoma state — including park owners, — all of that. A permanent- In order to address the Ride Awareness Month. The Office of Homeland Security operators and rental companies site ride operator and an out- state’s $400,000-plus ride well-promoted campaign, held chief of staff, a survivor of the — to determine what was work- of-state, traveling carnival are inspection program shortfall before school summer break, 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. ing and what wasn’t in order different business models, as is for fiscal year 2016, the com- has found the department and Murrah Federal Building, who to draft new, sensibly catego- the state fair in Oklahoma City. missioner’s regulatory overhaul the state school system partner- helped establish the first anti- rized regulations designed to To have a regulatory environ- includes moving fees and penal- ing to convey the importance terrorism legislation in the U.S. improve safety and lift some ment that doesn’t treat those ties to administrative rule from of obeying height restrictions “When I came operator burdens. different business models dif- statute, fee increases phased in posted on amusements. into office as Among those responding ferently is problematic for both over three years (at the indus- The commissioner also labor com- to her office’s outreach effort the industry and the regulator.” try’s request), and a reconcili- acknowledged her agency’s missioner, I were Frontier City and White Previously, the Department ation of the program’s revenue need to respond to larger didn’t know a Water Bay, both in Oklahoma of Labor’s inspection fees were and expenditures every year. industry developments, such lot about the City; Andy Alligator’s Fun Park divided into two categories: Rules to remove some inspec- as the tragic ride accident at amusement and Water Park in Norman; Kiddie Rides and “everything tion frequency burdens also the Ohio State Fair in July (see industry. But McLawhorn and, on the event side, the state else” — sometimes result- have been put in place. story, page 30). I am a mother capital’s Oklahoma State Fair. ing in disproportionate and Additionally established is “Every time a tragedy and have spent time at amuse- “They thought it was good for unfair inspection fees. Criteria the Department of Labor’s abil- occurs, it causes us to pause and ment parks and on rides, so I the industry as a whole,” said recently developed by the ity to hold bad actors account- evaluate our policies to ensure was very interested in learning the commissioner. commissioner and the depart- able with fines. “That was some- we are doing everything we can how we regulate them.” From these initial meetings ment’s inspectors have led to thing that I heard a lot from to protect riders,” she said. “As Houston discovered that emerged a series of summits. the following new amusement the industry — where you have soon as we received word of Oklahoma was one of 30 states “All members of the industry ride and equipment categories, people who are registering, the Ohio accident, we began with state-level regulation over were invited to give us their which will help indicate the providing insurance and doing researching whether the oper- amusement rides, requiring input,” Houston said. “Once we appropriate level of inspection everything right, and then you ator or ride, or similar rides, registration and insurance veri- put together some initial drafts and fee: Permanent, Temporary, have somebody from out of state had operated in the state. We fication as well as mandatory of the rules, we sent them back Inflatable, Substantial, Water come in and set up and be gone reached out to our stakehold- inspections. out to members of the indus- and Other. within 48 hours. People could ers, including the Oklahoma “I was curious as to why try for further input, which “The inflatable indus- call and make a complaint, but State Fair, to share information we regulated the industry when allowed us to change the rules try is one we’re continuing to there was really nothing in stat- and outline next steps.” other states do not. Honestly, I again. It was a very open, very work through,” noted Houston, ute that we could do.” Houston is unfazed by the thought this was an area that transparent process, and I tried “because we do have an issue Emphasized Houston: debate over federal involve- we might deregulate complete- to make sure we had a diversity with too many inflatables that “If we’re issuing a fine, it’s ment in ride safety regulation. ly, but the more I learned about of viewpoints.” are not following the rules. because somebody is not fol- “We’ve done a really good it, the more I learned about the The endeavor proved an Regulating that industry has lowing the rules or is endan- job of regulating this indus- importance of reasonable regu- ongoing education for the been a challenge. Our inspec- gering the public. And the try in a way that protects the lation. And I was impressed by commissioner. tion is once a year in the ware- Department of Labor doesn’t safety of the public but is not how operators in our state are “Because the regulations house; it doesn’t address when keep the fine money; it goes overly burdensome,” she said. so committed to safety.” hadn’t been updated in more an inflatable is inflated, on site into our general revenue fund “We’ve struck that balance, and Before making changes, than 20 years, there wasn’t and staked. We did a summit at the state legislature.” I’m very proud of the work and Houston also wanted to under- really a distinction in statute,” specific to the issue of inflat- For the park patron side updates that we’ve done. I think stand whether government was she said. “The whole regulatory able staking, and we brought of the amusement safety equa- Oklahoma truly is a model for being helpful or harmful to the environment had been creat- in members of the industry for tion, the Department of Labor the rest of the country.” 44 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017

Amusement Industry Manufacturers SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION and Suppliers International, Ltd. P.O. Box 92366 • Nashville, Tenn. 37209 Phone: (714) 425-5747 • Fax: (714) 276-9666 Karen Oertley • [email protected] www.aimsintl.org Holly Coston, (714) 697-6654, [email protected] Safety education and training saves lives With the world watching amusement suppliers in the amusement industry attend to stop by the AIMS International booth industry safety, employee training and educa- the AIMS Safety Seminar to learn about the #4527 during the IAAPA Attractions Expo tion is the best way to ensure attractions are latest issues and practices in safety and secu- in Orlando, Fla., November 14-17. equipped to avoid and prevent accidents. rity. They know they’ll benefit by learning The AIMS Safety Seminar is a once a year from the industry's top experts and gain valu- Be a Sponsor opportunity to learn from industry experts able information and feedback from people AIMS is recognized by the IRS as a non- in a weeklong educational setting. AIMS who touch their products and services on a profit association dedicated to improve students have the unique opportunity to daily basis. industry safety through leadership in educa- customize their experience by choosing from Early registration for the 2018 AIMS Safety tion. Our seminar sponsors help us provide approximately 200 different classes. Seminar at $595 is now open and full class improvements to our classroom and edu- If you or your employees are responsible selection will be available in October. Register cational equipment. In addition to expos- for the care and safety of amusement indus- at www.aimsintl.org where you can also ing your company’s product or service to try guests, make plans now to attend the book your hotel room at the Galveston Hilton our students and instructors, as an AIMS Safety Seminar in Galveston, Texas, January at the special AIMS rate of $115 per night. Safety Seminar sponsor, your company dem- 7-12, 2018. Many new and updated classes Certification testing is offered in Maintenance, onstrates support for our work to improve added this year include hands-on training at Operations, Aquatics, and Ride Inspection. amusement industry safety. Sponsor benefits Galveston’s Pleasure Pier and Schlitterban include prominent logo placement on sig- Waterpark. A multi-dimensional incident AIMS at Industry Events nage and electronic monitors throughout the response/investigation simulation will be We welcome the opportunity to meet col- seminar, the opportunity to distribute litera- incorporated and intertwined among several leagues at numerous industry events that take ture in the registration area, and recognition classes. More on this as it develops. place during the fall season. You’ll find a strong on our website and other channels through- AIMS presence at the Euro Attractions Show out the year. For more information on spon- The Safety Seminar is for Suppliers too… in Berlin, Germany, and the ASTM meeting in sorship, contact Karen Oertley at k.oertley@ The best of the best manufacturers and Scottsdale, Arizona, both in October. Be sure aimsintl.org. Space for this AIMS page is provided courtesy of Amusement Today as a corporate partner of AIMS Intl. Content is provided by AT & AIMS. September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 45 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION SAFETY CALENDAR 2017 World Waterpark Association Symposium & Trade Show October 16-19, 2017 • (Trade Show: Oct. 17 & 18) West Palm Beach, Fla. • (913) 599-0300 www.wwashow.org • Parks and Carnivals Educational (PACE) Amusement Ride Safety Seminar October 30 – November 2, 2017 Comfort Resort, Bloomsburg, Pa. (Classroom portion) Knoebels Amusement Resort, Elysburg, Pa. (Hands-on training portion) 717-534-3101, Gary Chubb www.paceseminar.com/index.html • Pennsylvania Amusement Ride Safety Seminar November 7-9, 2017 Red Lion Hotel, Harrisburg, Pa. (717) 215-4316 Joe Filoramo or (561)758-3266 Phil Slaggert www.paridesafety.com • IAAPA Attractions Expo 2017 November 14-18, 2017 • (Trade Show: Nov. 15-18) Orlando, Fla. • (703) 836-4800 • www.iaapa.org

2018 AIMS International 2018 Safety Seminar January 7-12, 2018 San Luis Resort and Hilton Hotel (Classes at Galveston Convention Center) Galveston, Texas • (714) 425-5747 www.aimsinlt.org • NAARSO 2018 Safety Fourm Jan. 28-Feb. 2, 2018 Hotel to be announced Baton Rouge, La. Hands on ride training to be held at Dixie Landin'/Blue Bayou (813) 661-2779 www.naarso.com • IISF Trade Show February 6-9, 2018 NEW: Only 4 show days! Riverview, Fla. • (813)677-9377 www.gibtownshowmensclub.com • IRT/iROC Safety Training School Feb. 6-9, 2018 Knott's Berry Farm Hotel Buena Park, Calif. • (615) 545-8109 Hands on ride training to be held at Knott's Berry Farm [email protected] • Northwestern Showman's Club Safety Seminar February 17-22, 2018 3407 S.E. 108th Ave. Portland, Ore. 97266 (503) 761-0989 or (772) 485-5112 Class training at Oaks Amusement Park and Funtastic Rides, Inc. Winter Quarters • Pennsylvania Amusement Ride Safety Seminar February 27 - March 1, 2018 Red Lion Hotel, Harrisburg, Pa. (717) 215-4316 Joe Filoramo or (561) 758-3266 Phil Slaggert www.paridesafety.com • AAMA/AMOA Amusement Expo 2018 Feb. 28-March 1, 2018 Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall Las Vegas, Nev. • (708) 226-1300 www.amusementexpo.org 46 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017 CLASSIFIEDS

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FOR SALE

Moser Flipping Action Arm P/M.....$99,000 EMPLOYMENT Chance Century Wheel P/M.....$199,000 Chance Pharoahs Fury T/M..... $550,000 CLASSIFIED ADS MIDWEST REGIONAL THEME PARK Wisdom Tornado T/M...... $139,000 $20 minimum, Tivoli Orbiter T/M...... $399,000 up to 30 words looking for an experienced 2010 ARM Vertigo T/M...... 400,000 ($1 per additional word) ARM Happy Viking T/M...... $89,000 ideo rack  V T Retail Manager Kolinski Slide T/M...... $39,000 DISPLAY AD: $50 per Zamperla Tea Cup T/M...... $49,000 column inch (a 1-point rule will Salary based on experience 2016 KMG Freak Out T/M.... $725,000 appear around ad) ($50,000 - $70,000) Zamperla Power Surge T/M.....$299,000 Zamperla Shocker T/M...... $250,000 Due the 10th of the Expo Wheel T/M...... $299,000 Submit resume to: month prior to Call Len or John issue date Lynn Hagan (908) 526-8009 Call Sammy [email protected] FAX: (908) 526-4535 www.Rides4U.com (817) 460-7220 September 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 47 48 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2017