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September 7 & 8, 2018 TM & ©2018 Amusement Today, Inc. www.GoldenTicketAwards.com June 2018 | Vol. 22 • Issue 3 www.amusementtoday.com Electric C.P. Huntington Train from SeaWorld’s Electric Eel Chance Rides a green game changer gives San Diego a jolt for Landry’s Downtown Aquarium AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected] AT: Pam Sherborne SAN DIEGO, Calif. — [email protected] SeaWorld San Diego has long HOUSTON, Texas — A new C.P. enjoyed a high profile on the Huntington Train that was unveiled April 21 at shores of Mission Bay. Landry’s Downtown Aquarium is powering Since May 10, the park has its way into the history books added “high voltage.” The landmark 400th train built by Chance Springing into action two Rides is the very first to “go green” — with days ahead of its originally an engine that runs on lithium-ion batteries. scheduled debut, Electric Eel The train also represents the application of a has become the newest star new technology that allows for micro-cycling, on the theme park’s skyline. Electric Eel slithers through its which not only is a first for Chance but for The 15-story-high, triple- climactic loop high above the Clearwater, Fla.-based Lithionics Battery, launch steel roller coaster maker of the batteries used in the attraction. park. AT/DEAN LAMANNA The green technology’s use in the C.P. 4See SEAWORLD, page 10 Huntington Train — and its operational and promotional benefits — has Landry’s officials Merlin’s Mayhem opens very excited. The electric train is quieter and produces less emissions. “It completely changes our whole at Dutch Wonderland operation,” said Steve Howe, aquarium AT: B. Derek Shaw The 400th C.P. Huntington Train built general manager. “The train ride is a guided [email protected] by Chance Rides replaces the gasoline- tour and it has made the experience much powered engine with an electric one LANCASTER, Pa. — A new more pleasant.” Dutch Wonderland that runs on lithium-ion batteries. attraction at , The public response, he added, has been The train's color reflects its newfound an amusement park that gratifying. environmental friendliness. describes itself as “A Kingdom “We have had so many positive comments. COURTESY LANDRY'S DOWNTOWN AQUARIUM for Kids,” is providing fun for People love that we are going green.” the whole family. The new Electric C.P. Huntington Train charging station where the train recharges for Known for offering pint-size the Sky Ride and Wonderland replaces a gasoline-powered model that was about three to four minutes. thrills appealing to younger chil- Special train ride. The location installed when the aquarium opened in 2003. “This recharging at every cycle can keep dren since its opening in 1963, previously was the site of the From an operational / budgeting perspective, the train running all day,” said Dick Chance of the 48-acre park now is aiming Sunoco Turnpike car ride, which Howe acknowledged that the aquarium will Chance Rides, adding that the train recharges higher — both in visitor age and has been moved to another sec- see savings in maintenance and gasoline costs. to 100 percent battery capacity overnight. ride profile — with the debut tion of the park. The train travels on a half-mile track at According to Chance, the speed of this of Merlin’s Mayhem, a sus- The mid-course helix of five mph, providing a five-minute ride. There electric train model can be increased to pended roller coaster from S&S Merlin’s Mayhem, the first of is a four-percent incline that takes the train about 10 mph, depending on its location and Worldwide, Inc., of Logan, Utah. two along the ride’s course, cre- into a tunnel through the shark tank and a application. The custom-designed coast- ates an impression as soon as four percent decline when exiting the tunnel. Roger Berry, an amusement industry er occupies a relatively small guests step through the park’s When entering the station, the locomotive veteran and the sales representative for area near the center of the Palace gates. stops at the same place on the tracks every Entertainment-owned property, In the medieval castle- 4See LANDRY'S, page 6 cycle. The “parking spot” is actually a where its layout weaves between 4See MAYHEM, page 8

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EDITORIAL: Tim Baldwin, [email protected] FLINT’S VIEW: Bubba Flint A legacy of touching lives The amusement industry has its legends. Many of these people are notable for creating firsts or pushing boundaries or successfully driving business in new directions. The accolades put them front and center. Baldwin Others aren’t so public. The world has lost an individual who rarely stepped into the spotlight. Henri Landwirth was a man so full of character and compassion that it would be hard to find another human being with an equal amount of heart. Landwirth passed away on April 16 (see obituary, page 5). To read his 1996 biography, Gift of Life, one couldn’t blame him if he had become bitter, disenchanted with the cruelty of the world. Born into a Jewish family, Landwirth and his twin sister were arrested in their teens and became prisoners of World War II. The description of the horrors inflicted upon him at Auschwitz are challenging to read but tell the full story of the man. INDUSTRY OPINION: Tim Baldwin, [email protected] Barely escaping these tortures with his life, Landwirth felt he had received a gift, a miracle. In time he dedicated Inspiring employees his energies and efforts to making the world a better place. During a recent visit with two ride mon areas, were specifically designed for After coming to the U.S., Landwirth found success as manufacturers — Soaring Eagle and S&S employee comfort and inspiration through a hotelier. When he observed that families with terminally Worldwide — in Logan, Utah, I was brighter colors, plenty of windows and impressed to see how the companies additional natural light. Management was ill children were not able to take memorable vacations value their employees. committed to making employees feel like together, a spark ignited. Offering free hotel stays to At Soaring Eagle, proprietor Stan they were at a special place where they such families became commonplace with Landwirth, but Checketts has a sign on the wall in the contributed to making things happen. his dream only grew bigger — becoming established in conference room. It says, in bold letters, It was inspiring to witness. 1989 as the Kissimmee, Fla.-based organization Give Kids “YES IF.” I was reminded of Amusement the World. In conversation with Checketts, he explained Today’s 2013 Golden Ticket Awards. Host park that often people have good ideas, and naysay- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk toured attendees Today, the non-profit Give Kids the World Village resort ers are quick to say “No” or “We can’t do that” through its seasonal staff facilities. The bright contains 168 villas on 84 acres. Families with terminally ill — diffusing those ideas. Checketts encourages colors and open areas made for a welcoming and children can enjoy a vacation together free of charge — a people to think beyond excuses and reasons to comfortable — even “fun” — place to work. godsend to those with mounting medical bills. say no. It was evident that Santa Cruz Beach Becoming a “legend” is a lofty, though not always This philosophy would be welcome in any Boardwalk wanted each one of its seasonal intentional, goal for anyone. Landwirth is certainly one of workplace. I, for one, would love to see similar employees to know he or she mattered. I remem- this category’s more atypical individuals. When you heard signs go up in parks around the globe to encour- ber several other industry professionals alongside age creativity and good ideas in the industry. me on the tour saying they were impressed. the name, you vaguely knew what he had accomplished Less than a mile away from Soaring Eagle, There are easy takeaways from the examples but most likely never learned the full story. His legacy was S&S Worldwide recently opened a new facility set by Soaring Eagle, S&S and Santa Cruz Beach built with heart and compassion, and by touching lives. after years of development. A primary aim of its Boardwalk. We can ask ourselves, What are we A visit to Give Kids the World Village is nothing short planning was to create an efficient space that doing to make staff say, “Wow. I’m glad I work of inspiring. And so, in every way, was Landwirth. fosters staff collaboration. here.” Are we making them feel valued? Workspaces, and even break areas and com- Might I say, “Yes, if…” Opinions expressed on this page do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

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Amusement Today is an independent, privately- Founder, Publisher & Editor Managing Editor Production Manager owned trade newspaper published 14 times Gary Slade • (817) 460-7220 x3 Dean Lamanna • (817) 460-7220 John Robinson • (513) 256-1441 per year by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. Box [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 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 Editorial Monthly Contributors Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper, Sammy Piccola • (817) 460-7220 x1 Tim Baldwin • (972) 697-9745 Dan Feicht, Bubba Flint, and its related websites, are Copyrighted and [email protected] [email protected] Richard Munch, Janice Witherow Trademarked 2018 by Amusement Today Inc., all rights reserved. Assistant Office Manager, Circulation Jeffrey Seifert • (817) 460-7220 x4 Association Memberships Savannah Breen • (817) 460-7220 x5 [email protected] ACE, AIMS International, ASTM, IAAPA, IISF, Address: P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas IRT/iROC, NAARSO, NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, 76005-5427, USA [email protected] • (717) 650-8330 PAPA, PACE, TTIA, WWA Deliveries: 2012 E. Randol Mill Road #203, B. Derek Shaw [email protected] Arlington, Texas 76011, USA Advertising Industry Affiliated Charities Phone: (817) 460-7220 Sue Nichols • (615) 477-5432 Pam Sherborne • (615) 308-3310 Give Kids the World Village, Morgan's Wonderland, Fax: (817) 265-NEWS (6397) [email protected] National Roller Coaster Museum & Archives Websites: www.AmusementToday.com, [email protected] www.GoldenTicketAwards.com June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5 OBITUARIES Philanthropist Henri Landwirth, founder MINUTE of Give Kids the World, passes at 91 DRILL ORLANDO, Fla. — Henri Landwirth, founder of Give Kids 2 AT: Janice Witherow the World Village, a wonderland for critically ill Richard Zimmerman, Cedar Fair Entertainment Company children in Kissimmee, Fla., passed away April 16 in Ponte Vedra, Fla., from natural causes. He was 91. For someone who has been in the Born in Antwerp, Belgium, in 1927 to amusement industry for more than 30 Fanny and Max Landwirth, Landwirth had a years, Richard Zimmerman still gets just rags-to-riches life story. He survived five years as excited about the little things as he in concentration camps during World War II, does the big things. Richard assumed the reunited with his twin sister after the war, and Landwirth position of president and CEO of Cedar Fair then immigrated to the U.S. — with only $20 in Entertainment Company in January and his pocket, a fifth-grade education and speaking little English. has been off and running in his new role. He From that beginning, Landwirth went on to become a is known for his dedication and passion, and successful hotelier in Orlando, Fla. His passion and mission for as someone his team rallies around. In his giving back emerged through numerous non-profit organizations “downtime” he enjoys spending time with he created during his lifetime. In addition to founding Give Kids his family, traveling and watching college the World in 1989, he also founded the Mercury 7 Foundation, basketball. Dignity U Wear and the Fanny Landwirth Foundation. At Give Kids the World Village, critically ill kids and their Title: President and CEO families enjoy week-long, all-expenses-paid fantasy vacations. Landwirth’s former wife, Pamela, is president and CEO of the Number of years in the industry: 31 organization. Landwirth was recognized with many honors. He was named Best thing about the industry one of the 12 Most Caring Individuals in America by the Caring Without a doubt, the people we work Institute in 1988 and the Orlando Sentinel’s Floridian of the Year in closely with on a daily basis…outstanding Richard Zimmerman assumed the role of 1994. He also won the Ellis Island Medal of Honor Award in 2003 individuals across the board in all corners of president & CEO of Cedar Fair in January. and the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Humanitarian Award in 2004. COURTESY CEDAR FAIR the industry — dedicated, passionate, and Landwirth’s sister, Margot Glazer, preceded him in death. enthusiastic. He is survived by his three children, Gary Landwirth, Greg If I was to join the circus, I would hands- Landwirth and Lisa Landwirth Ullmann; four grandchildren and Favorite amusement ride: Roller coasters down be a … Ringmaster. a great grandson. A private family funeral service was held at Temple Israel If I wasn’t working in the amusement If I could be any athlete, I would be … Cemetery near Orlando. A celebration of his life was held April 28 industry, I would be … A professional golfer. You get to travel to at the Give Kids the World Village. Teaching at a university somewhere. beautiful places and hit a golf ball all day Joe Zumsteg dies at 67; was longtime long. Biggest challenge facing our industry Rhode Island Novelty sales representative Time poverty. Families today are The most adventurous thing I have done WEST SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Joe Zumsteg, 67, passed away overscheduled and stressed. We are the lately is … April 19 at his home in Western Springs, Ill., after a long battle antidote to overscheduling for families of Hiked the Caminito del Rey in Spain. with brain cancer. all ages. A longtime sales representative for Rhode Ultimate movie soundtrack: Island Novelty and Classic Toy, Zumsteg was The thing I like most about amusement/ The Godfather known for his passion for the carnival and water park season is … amusement industries. His first exposure to the Every year is different, a new season with Do you: stick to your plans or “wing it”? business of fun occurred while his father worked unique challenges and opportunities. Success stems from better planning but for Acme Premium Supply Toy Company. in our business we need to call audibles Zumsteg joined his dad at the company while The last time I ate fast food was … frequently as each season unfolds. attending high school. Zumsteg Last week, and it was Chick-Fil-A. From there, Zumsteg worked at Brechner The funniest person I know is … Company and later at U.S. Toy Company. He eventually found his My all-time best vacation was … Brian Witherow, our CFO. He is witty and way to Rhode Island Novelty and Classic Toy, where he remained. Scotland with my wife Carolyn and our always keeps things loose. The Showmen’s League of America (SLA) has established a three adult children. Breathtaking scenery, memorial scholarship in his name. The SLA Memorial Scholarship surprisingly delicious food and lots of The celebrity I would most like to have is a $4,000 minimum fund or a $1,000 a year commitment for four refreshing beverages at the pub! dinner with is … years. Patrick Ewing…Being a Georgetown More information on the scholarship can be obtained by Favorite summertime drink: alumni, it was an easy choice. contacting the SLA’s Chicago office at 1023 W. Fulton Market, A cold Corona with a lime! Chicago, Ill, 60607, (312) 733-9533. Favorite cartoon character as a kid … On a typical Sunday morning, you can Scooby Doo. MAILBAG find me … Drinking coffee on my deck and reading the Sunday papers. Best holiday tradition To the Editor: Christmas vacations with my family. We are I wanted to let you know I am really excited to see future The one thing I always seem to put off always someplace different — on the ski issues of Amusement Today with the new layout. As I was reading is … Cleaning out my garage. slopes, a beach or a cruise ship — over the my May edition, I couldn’t help but think how the new layout holidays. flowed nicely with the rearrangement, placement of pictures and My “must-see” television show is … advertisements. Georgetown Hoyas basketball games. But The hobby I would like to spend more I also think it’s great that a section of the newspaper now mostly almost any college basketball game. time doing is … Hiking in the mountains. discusses “Safety, Maintenance & Operations.” All the best, I would best describe my office as … Pick one: cake, pie or ice cream Mike Funyak, Assistant Director of Operations Sparsely furnished but comfortable. Cherry Pie, nothing else is even close. DelGrosso’s Park / Laguna Splash Tipton, Pa. 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 LANDRY'S time researching lithium-ion Continued from page 1 batteries in university settings and with other companies, Lithionics Battery, said the working to make them safe. Electric C.P. Huntington Train is Their connection occurred “turn-of-the-corner technology under mundane circumstances for Chance.” some years ago, when Tartaglia Berry has been involved showed up to buy Berry’s pick- with early research and data up truck. collection since about 2010. “[Roger] told me his truck That experience was key when was no longer for sale and he met engineer Stephen then asked me why I needed Tartaglia, who had spent it,” Tartaglia recalled. “I told him I wanted to haul lithium- Attending the unveiling of the Electric C.P. Huntington Train ion batteries.” They compared at Landry's Downtown Aquarium in Houston were (from left) FAST FACTS notes and formed a partnership. Roger Berry of Lithionics; Steve Howe, director, Landry's Subsequently, Lithionics Ride/Location Downtown Aquarium Houston; and Dick Chance, Chance Battery was founded, and the Electric C.P. Huntington Train / Rides. COURTESY CHANCE RIDES two were able to draw the Landry's Downtown Aquarium, Houston, Texas interest of Universal Studios expressed a desire to make hit with 15 kilowatts. They are and The Walt Disney Co. “They a green version of the classic getting all their energy back the Electric C.P. Huntington Manufacturer have the capabilities of doing model. Dick Chance knew who each ride cycle.” Train at IAAPA Attractions Chance Rides their own research,” Tartaglia to call — thus setting in motion Testing of the train was Expo 2017 in Orlando last Opened said. “Our batteries now power the creation of a lithium-ion conducted at Chance Rides’ November. It was there that the April 21, 2018 parade floats and the Rivers of battery-powered locomotive. headquarters in Wichita, Kan., company was approached by Light [nighttime experience] at “Chance is a pioneer of the last summer. Landry’s. Size Disney’s Animal Kingdom.” micro-cycling and opportunity “Dick built tracks and we “We worked out a deal One locomotive, Batteries produced by charging,” said Tartaglia, ran that train all summer, trying with them so we that could three coaches, Lithionics have received noting that there are three 24- to break it,” Berry said. “When use their [aquarium] site as a each coach capacity certification to display the volt lithium-ion batteries in a it broke, we would learn from testing site,” Chance said. “If 14 adults or 21 children UL Mark and have passed series powering the train. Each it, fix it and tweak it. We have this works out, they have other Track/Ride Length/Speed the requirements of the UN battery is about the size of collected an abundance of data trains that may be replaced.” 1/2 mile/5 minutes/5 mph Transportation of Dangerous carry-on luggage and weighs and still are.” Chance said interest also Power Goods Manual of Test and Criteria, 75 pounds. “Together, they’re Berry said the train at has been expressed by zoos, Three 24-volt lithium-ion Sixth Revised Edition. producing 11.5 kilowatts of Landry’s has a cellular link that and official visits to see the batteries in a series from The idea for the Electric energy. The chargers are 15 allows him to log in and “look Houston installation have been Lithonics Battery C.P. Huntington Train arose kilowatts of energy, so at every at what it is doing anytime.” taking place. when John Chance, Dick’s son, cycle, the batteries are getting Chance Rides introduced •chancerides.com June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 MAYHEM Continued from page 1 styled queue for the coaster’s loading station, a unique sto- ryline unfolds involving two main characters: Merlin and Mayhem. It reveals that while wandering through the park, Merlin finds an egg; when the egg hatches, a very mischievous dragon named Mayhem pops out and winds up on the loose. “The whole purpose of the ride is to help Merlin find [the dragon],” said Hannah Shepard, park marketing manager. And there’s plenty of breezy, soaring fun during the “search.” After ascending a 60-foot After a dart to the right near the top of the lift, Merlin’s lift hill, Merlin’s Mayhem darts Mayhem riders begin their quick descent (above). The train to the right before swooping goes over the top of the Sky Ride (above, far right) during above the Sky Ride. This is fol- the 60-second ride. Merlin’s Mayhem's lift hill rises nearly 60 lowed by a helix turn over the feet. AT/B. DEREK SHAW park’s fish pond. Next are a series of S-curves, which send the train into an we think it was worth the wait.” space would wind up giving it upward helix. The train then Before the ride officially a personality all its own. drops under the railroad tracks opened to the public this year, “[We] were looking not only into a misted tunnel and swings the park “made good” by hold- at where the coaster wanted to around a 180-degree turn before ing a special preview event for go, but also where it was able entering the brake run. all 2017 season pass holders — to go,” recalled Barto of his site allowing them to experience the walk with Rick Stammel, vice new coaster first. president of theme parks for Pete Barto, S&S Palace Entertainment. “There Worldwide’s director of sales are a lot of near misses with a inception of the ride and even and maintenance. They really for North America and Europe, number of rides in the park. through now.” understand their guests, and said Merlin’s Mayhem makes That makes it even more fast and S&S itself welcomed they’ve been absolutely fantas- sense for Dutch Wonderland. dynamic and exciting to ride.” and valued the input Dutch tic to work with.” “It’s perfect for their audience in Merlin’s Mayhem has a Wonderland’s staff provid- The public’s reaction to While construction and terms of the thrill level, excite- 39-inch height requirement, ed regarding coaster vehicle Merlin’s Mayhem has been testing of the ride were not ment and height restriction. We allowing more people to enjoy design. quite enthusiastic. completed in time for a 2017 looked at a lot of different rides the ride, including the park’s “They brought some really “Everybody says, ‘Wow introduction, Merlin’s Mayhem when we looked to roll out this younger visitor demographic. good insight from the opera- that was faster than I thought, was ready to go at the start of coaster as part of our portfolio. “Even children that are four, tions, maintenance and cogni- but the ride just felt good, it felt this season. We wanted it to be a little more five years old, depending on tive child interaction stand- smooth,’” Eisenberg noted. “Even though we did hope aggressive. It’s not a junior how tall they are, can ride with points,” Barto said. “One of the “It’s a lot of fun and it’s to open earlier last year, there coaster, it’s a family coaster — their parents,” Shepard said. things with the vehicle you’ll got a lot of pep,” said Barto of were a lot of thematic elements something that everyone can Eisenberg had praise for notice is that the seats are closer the ride experience. “It is truly and pieces of this ride that all enjoy. Kids today are not afraid S&S. “They are such a fun together. That was a suggestion a ride for the whole family, a had to come together to make to ride rides.” team to work with, and really made by the park. They knew perfect addition to this park. I it into the great final product While a family suspended through the entire process they we were going to be work- invite everyone to come out and we think it is,” said Jeffrey coaster was part of the com- were fantastic,” he said. “We ing with 39-inch high guests, ride it. Eisenberg, Dutch Wonderland’s pany’s catalogue before Dutch know this is a new ride for and they wanted to have that “We’re excited to have director of marketing. “During Wonderland became a client, them — a new project type. It’s child a little closer to the par- Merlin’s Mayhem in our portfo- the process, we were finding that S&S customized the layout for as new for us as it was for them, ent during that ride. They were lio. It’s a great park and a great those pieces were taking a bit the park’s needs. The ride’s in a sense. They’ve been here very involved from vehicle and ride.” longer than we anticipated. But configuration for the available onsite so many times, from the layout design to operations •dutchwonderland.com

The queue theming (left) continues the storyline established for Merlin’s Mayhem. Visitors have a spectacular view of the roller coaster (center) shortly after entering the park; the mid-course portion of the ride soars over a fish pond. Pete Barto of S&S Worldwide addressed the crowd at the entrance to the ride queue during media day festivities. AT/B. DEREK SHAW June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 SEAWORLD Continued from page 1 from Premier Rides, Inc., of Baltimore, Md. — sport- ing deceptively tranquil and coastal setting-compatible hues of aquamarine and blue — is the tallest and fast- est coaster south of Orange County. Based on the reaction of media and invited enthusiasts at the ride’s preview event, it’s also going to be a regional must-do experience. Marilyn Hannes, SeaWorld San Diego park president, told Amusement Today that “the opening of Watch or ride, Electric Eel is a dynamic experience — and a new landmark for SeaWorld San Electric Eel was truly phe- Diego. After its third launch, the train rockets straight up to a height of nearly 150 feet (above nomenal. Watching the excite- left). The ride provides a dramatic backdrop for park's year-old Ocean Explorer attraction ment of our guests was some- and exhibit area. AT/DEAN LAMANNA (TOP PHOTOS); COURTESY SEAWORLD SAN DIEGO thing I will never forget.” Hannes, herself a major smooth return to the station He was among the many who acknowledged that Electric coaster fan, also acknowl- quickly follows. participated. Eel represents an effort to edged that the ride is a cru- In just 55 seconds, the “The really cool thing expand the property's amuse- cial, and perhaps long over- coaster completes the typical is that park ambassadors ment options. It also com- due, addition to the park’s enthusiast’s thrill-ride check- get paid to test rides here,” pletes the second phase of ride lineup. list: airtime, hang time, verti- Roberts said. “It’s a pretty SeaWorld’s Ocean Explorer cal drops, inversions, surprise fantastic program that allows attraction and exhibit area, factor and speed. you to work it into your regu- which opened last year Tim Roberts, production lar shift if you have some time “We understand we have supervisor for SeaWorld San to kill during your day. We a wide demographic, and Diego, was the park’s “desig- need bodies in these seats for that our guests have different we’ve been able to get a thrill nated riding partner” during test riding for a certain num- interests and tastes,” he said. ride like Electric Eel,” Roberts the preview event. He had ber of hours. It’s really fun.” “Electric Eel is an opportunity said. “This is a ride our guests completed more than 30 cir- Thanks to Electric Eel's to provide a kind of balanced have never seen before; you “It is important that we cuits on Electric Eel by the hitch-free building and testing experience portfolio across the can hear their screams from maintain a variety of attrac- time AT caught up with him. phases, SeaWorld was able to park. It fits a really nice niche every area of the park.” tions that appeal to a wide “When you do the back open the ride a couple days for younger people, teens, “It’s a kick in the pants,” audience,” she said. “We want launch through the station, earlier than planned. who are looking for more of Koontz added. “There is no to have the right balance of there’s a great turn and “We started construction a thrill experience — not by lull in the action. It’s a minute animal encounters, exhibits you get to look down at the in earnest back in September, itself, but in conjunction with long, but there is something and rides that not only pro- ground,” he said. “The front and it could’ve taken any- the totality of the park and happening every second of vide our guests with mean- row is fantastic, especially where from nine to 11 all the other offerings that we the ride.” ingful experiences, but ones when you come over the months,” said David Koontz, have.” •seaworldsandiego.com that are also fun. Electric Eel hump at the top at 150 feet the park’s director of commu- Complementing the brings a whole new level of high. And coming out of the nications. “One of the things coaster are a live eel habitat, excitement to SeaWorld.” heartline roll and into the bar- that really fell in our favor which features a collection of FAST FACTS Electric Eel propels rid- rel roll for the almost-90-de- was just outstanding weather. California moray eels, and an ers forward and backward gree drop, there’s no track We didn’t have any delays interactive educational expe- Ride/Park through the coaster’s loading [visible momentarily] in front created by rain, which would rience called Mission: Deep Electric Eel SeaWorld San Diego station — accelerating to a of you — you just go straight not be unusual here in the Discovery, which allows a maximum speed of 62 mph down. The back seat offers winter. It really allowed us to team of one to four players to Type with almost shocking swift- more of a whipping effect at get ahead of schedule.” embark on a virtual deep-sea Triple launch steel coaster ness. The three-vehicle train that last particular spot.” While SeaWorld’s overall adventure. The two exhibits Manufacturer then rockets skyward nearly Roberts said SeaWorld mission is to connect people flank Electric Eel’s entrance Premier Rides, Inc. 150 feet, negotiating a heart- personnel were invited to with animals and add an edu- plaza. line roll before diving straight test-ride the coaster during its cational layer to the theme “Even with Electric Eel, Height/Length/Speed down into a twisting loop. A pre-opening break-in period. park experience, Koontz we’re still trying to ensure that 150 feet/853 feet/62 mph there are conservation and Number of Trains educational components,” 1 Koontz said. “The goal is to help especially the younger Number of Vehicles 3 (6 riders per vehicle; visitors get a better under- 18 riders per train) standing of ocean exploration and the deep ocean.” Special Elements The debut of the ride, Looping twists, forward which was preceded on May and backward propulsion, 5 by the park’s well-reviewed inverted heartline roll roll-out of the weekends-only Height Requirement Sesame Street Parade, certain- 54 inches ly covers more demographic Electric Eel packs a lot of action into its compact layout. The heartline roll at the top of the bases at SeaWorld. Opened structure (above left) delivers some startling hang time 15 stories above the ground, while “I’m just really glad that May 10, 2018 several diving drops offer moments of airtime. COURTESY SEAWORLD SAN DIEGO June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 11 12 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 PARKS, FAIRS & ATTRACTIONS  Steel Vengeance continues Cedar Point's legacy ­— Page 12 / FAIRS — Pages 30-33 All roads lead to Sesame Street at SeaWorld Orlando in 2019 Big Bird, Bert, Ernie A major highlight is and more to shine at SeaWorld Orlando’s first- ever parade event. Elmo and new Florida address his furry friends, along with parade dancers, will invite AT: Dean Lamanna guests to join the merry march [email protected] on Sesame Street daily. ORLANDO, Fla. — The “In partnering with classic and ever-popular Sesame Workshop, we are cre- Sesame Workshop / PBS ating a land for guests to make show Sesame Street is making an authentic connection that major inroads at SeaWorld can only be found in hugging a Orlando. Literally. furry friend or reading a book The marine theme park with Big Bird,” said Amanda currently is building an entire- Opening next year, Sesame Street at SeaWorld Orlando will unfurl an entire boulevard with Trauger, experience design ly new area inspired by the attractions devoted to the characters and educational themes of the long-running, award- manager for SeaWorld Parks program and its Muppet char- winning children’s TV series. COURTESY SEA WORLD ORLANDO & Entertainment. (The compa- acters. Called Sesame Street at “We are excited to trans- amazing addition to our park, be able to explore the iconic ny’s holdings include Sesame SeaWorld Orlando, the themed port our guests into the col- providing more unique and neighborhood as they walk Place, a family-friendly theme land will offer visitors the orful and creative world memorable experiences for through Abby Cadabby’s gar- park in Langhorne, Pa.) opportunity to walk along the of Sesame Street through the entire family.” den, visit Mr. Hooper’s store, Sesame Street at SeaWorld famous fictional thoroughfare immersive theming, charac- The themed land will fea- stop by Big Bird’s nest, sit on Orlando will be located on the for the first time. ter interactions and interac- ture rides, wet and dry play the famous 123 stoop and meet south end of the park, where The ambitious intersection tive play,” said Jim Dean, areas and character experi- their favorite Sesame Street Happy Harbor currently of fun, laughter and learning park president. “Sesame Street ences designed to entertain friends — including Elmo, stands. debuts in 2019. at SeaWorld Orlando is an the entire family. Guests will Cookie Monster and Big Bird. •seaworldorlando.com Marvel Super Heroes areas destined for Disney parks globally

BURBANK, Calif. — the existing Guardians of the action, special effects-filled More than ever before, comic Galaxy — Mission: Breakout! stage production. book heroes are mastering ride will be the centerpiece of And finally, joining Hong the theme park universe. a new Marvel land. Spider- Kong Disneyland’s very pop- And by the end of 2020, Walt Man and the Avengers are ular Iron Man Experience, Disney Parks and Resorts joining the location with which opened last year, a Worldwide, Inc., plans to roll experiences that will expand new attraction teaming guests out new lands based on the into the space formerly occu- with Ant-Man and The Wasp Marvel Super Heroes at three pied by A Bug’s Land, por- will help anchor a planned of its parks around the globe. tions of which began closing section devoted to all things Themed areas contain- in March. (The area report- Marvel. ing rides and experiences edly will be completely shut —Dean Lamanna devoted to the characters are down by the end of summer.) headed for Disneyland Paris, At Disneyland Paris, Walt Spider-Man, Iron Man and Hong Kong Disneyland Disney Studios Park will be the Avengers are among and the Disneyland Resort home to a Marvel land con- the characters that will in Anaheim, Calif. Disney is taining an adventure teaming populate new Marvel Super developing the attractions guests with Iron Man and the Heroes lands headed to in partnership with Marvel Avengers. In the meantime, Disney theme parks in Paris, Studios and Marvel Themed the park’s Marvel Summer of Hong Kong and Anaheim, Entertainment (both subsid- Super Heroes starts on June Calif., by the end of 2020. iaries of the Walt Disney Co.). 10 and runs through Sept. 30 COURTESY In Anaheim, at Disney — offering a kind of warm-up WALT DISNEY CO./ MARVEL STUDIOS California Adventure Park, to the new land with a live- June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 13 14 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 Knott’s raises thrill-ride stakes with Cali’s first dive coaster From Gerstlauer and Ride Entertainment, attraction delivers quality ‘HangTime’ AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected]

BUENA PARK, Calif. — No one will ever describe the full, downward-tilting stop made by the train atop the 15-story verti- cal lift of HangTime, the new steel roller coaster at Knott’s Berry Farm, as the pause that refreshes. The pause that panics, maybe. “HangTime’s disappearing track creates a memorable illu- sion of the unknown as riders feel like they are hanging over a HangTime lives up to its name in several ways — most notably at the crest of its 150-foot-tall cliff, staring at lift hill, where the coaster train pauses for several agonizing seconds before plunging down the ground in a 96-degree drop into the first of five inversionsCOURTESY KNOTT'S BERRY FARM nervous antici- pation,” said its signage to the design of its business development officer country have not been on a ver- Jon Storbeck, vehicle seating, the whole pack- for Ride Entertainment, which is tical lift,” he said. “It takes a lot park vice presi- age is presented with a region- celebrating its 20th anniversary of riders by surprise when they dent and gen- ally apt surfing theme that also this year (as well as two decades go out of the loading station and eral manager. Storbeck reflects the atmosphere of the of working with Gerstlauer). start going straight up — and for a wide range of people, but “People who park’s Boardwalk section. There, “Knott’s has a lot of great coast- feel what that’s like. The hold at also offers some great market- crave that adrenaline rush will HangTime fills the combined ers, but here we tried to come the top for a few seconds, espe- ing opportunities — and some want to ride this coaster again former footprint of Boomerang, up with a layout that was excit- cially in the front seat, where unique attributes — in the Los and again.” a Vekoma reverse shuttle coast- ing but wasn’t so intense that you get to see the entire coaster Angeles market?’” But there’s much more er, and RipTide, a Huss flat ride it wouldn’t hit the park’s huge layout in front of you, is a really Gerstlauer had the right than this one vertigo-inducing (both were removed in the last season pass-holder and family nice touch.” answer, according to Rob moment. It’s followed by a 18 months). audiences.” When Cedar Fair Decker, senior vice president 96-degree drop — said to be The only dive coaster in the At max operation — three approached Ride Entertainment of planning and design for the steepest of any coaster in Golden State, HangTime, which trains, with 16 passengers each for the attraction addition at Cedar Fair. California — into 2,189 feet of officially opened May 18, is an — he added, the ride should Knott’s, both parties knew that “Knott’s is truly one of my pretzel-like track containing Infinity model from Gerstlauer achieve a throughput of about space at the compact theme park favorite parks, and over the past five inversions, including a neg- Amusement Rides, GmbH, and 1,000 riders per hour. would be a challenge. few years we’ve put a lot of ative-g stall loop, abrupt bursts the German manufacturer’s sales For Sandy, who is no strang- “It was our guidance for work into it — bringing back of airtime and, yes, some sub- partner, Ride Entertainment of er to thrill rides, HangTime’s coming up with the layout of classic rides, revitalizing areas lime moments of upside-down Stevensville, Md. vertical lift and the dangling halt HangTime,” Sandy said. “We of the park,” he said. “But we hang time. “It’s very well-scaled to the at its apex are where it’s at. asked ourselves, ‘What can we From the ride’s name to park,” said Adam Sandy, chief “Most people around the do in this space that is thrilling 4See HANGTIME, page 15 ‘Lights! Coaster! Action!’: KCL Engineering makes rides shine WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — For KCL and leisurely, pause the train makes at the top of Engineering, the award-winning company behind the lift hill. But KCL resolved them with its own the mesmerizing, dynamic and fully programmable versatile control system. nighttime track / structure lighting on the new dive “The control package has software that is simi- coaster HangTime at Knott’s Berry Farm, illuminat- lar to what a lighting designer would use to control ing amusements is all in a day’s work. lights for a stage production or concert,” said Andy “Since almost every ride is unique, we like to Versluys, KCL electrical engineer. “It has the ability model the rides and confirm the lighting layout,” to receive signals from the ride computer and stack said Tom Kendrick, KCL lighting designer, explain- multiple effects simultaneously. There’s also a pro- ing that his crew works largely through computer grammable touch pad to manually start and stop visualization using various software programs. “But effects for testing or special events.” we also do real-life testing in our office using the HangTime’s lighting system includes 116 same lights that are installed, and we will purchase 40-watt LED fixtures mounted to the track and 46 the sample color chips of the colors used on the 200-wattt ground- and pole-mounted fixtures. KCL ride to dial-in our color choices to those specific KCL’s lighting package for HangTime offers a team members traveled to Knott’s a total of five colors. rainbow of programmable color combinations, times during the coaster’s construction and after its “Different [structural] finish colors reflect col- completion to check on the system’s progress and as well as a variety of motion effects. ored light differently, and the wrong combination COURTESY KCL ENGINEERING complete its programming. can leave you with some pretty ugly looking colors Kendrick described the park’s in-house con- that don’t do these amazing sculptures justice.” (Infinity and Euro-Fighter models, respectively). struction and entertainment production crews as KCL burst onto the scene in 2016 with its light- Aside from dealing with California codes and “knowledgeable and passionate,” adding: “They ing package for the Monster at Adventureland in regulations, which are stricter than in other areas provided us with some really descriptive ideas of Altoona, Pa., and more recently completed work of the U.S., KCL faced some new challenges with how they wanted certain seasonal effects to look. on Adrenaline Peak at Oaks Park in Portland, Ore. HangTime — particularly with how to design and Knott’s was a great client to work with.” Both coasters were manufactured by Gerstlauer time lighting effects that work with the dramatic, —Dean Lamanna June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 15 HANGTIME Continued from page 14 FAST FACTS Ride/Park hadn’t put a big thrill ride into Hangtime / the park in a long time. So it Knott’s Berry Farm was time. And to get a thrilling, Buena Park, Calif. dynamic steel roller coaster in here, the Boardwalk area made Type the most sense.” Infinity dive coaster Cedar Fair was impressed with Gerstlauer’s installation Manufacturer of the Monster, another Infinity Gerstlauer Amusement coaster model, at Adventureland The Southern California surfing theme is carried all the way through HangTime, including its Rides, GmbH in Altoona, Pa., in 2016, and the surfboard-inspired seating, and it is an ideal fit for the park's Boardwalk section. The coaster elaborate LED lighting package itself shoots some wildly impressive curls. COURTESY KNOTT'S BERRY FARM Height/Length/Speed by KCL Engineering (see sidebar 150 feet/2,189 feet/57mph story, page14) that went with it. to push Gerstlauer very far to tracks and displaying enough legacy in rollercoaster innova- Number of Trains “We were thinking that get us to five inversions and the color and visual pizazz to get tion, which has included the 3 (16 riders per train) Southern California surf cul- height up to 150 feet, and then people dancing throughout the very first corkscrew inversion ture is really to be celebrated to get a really terrific first drop. Boardwalk section. rollercoaster (Corkscrew) and Special Elements — there’s the beach, the board- They were ready to do the heavy “We have hundreds of ideas the first flywheel launch coaster Vertical lift hill, walk — and this would become lifting and go to that scale for for using that lighting package (Montezooma’s Revenge). 96-degree first drop an homage to that,” Decker said. us. With the tight footprint, we for all our other seasons of fun,” “Introducing a coaster like (after pause at top), “The Infinity coaster [captured] packed in as much as we could.” said Eric Nix, entertainment HangTime firmly positions 5 inversions, a lot of that. It was really kind of Helping Knott’s get the producer for Knott’s, noting that Knott’s Berry Farm as a must- negative-g stall loop, a snap to fit.” most out of both that relative- it be a particular boon for host- see attraction among Southern multicolor Cedar Fair and Gerstlauer ly small space and its invest- ing special and private events. California theme parks,” he LED track chase lighting worked easily and enthusiasti- ment is HangTime’s impressive “With its creative capabilities, said. “We look forward to wel- cally together on the rest of the nighttime light show, with pro- we’re like kids in a candy store.” coming our guests to this new Opening Date company’s new coaster wish list. grammable LED lights tracing For the park’s Jon Storbeck, experience.” May 18, 2018 Said Decker: “We didn’t have each train’s movement on the HangTime continues Knott’s •knotts.com 16 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 v AMUSEMENT PARK Beech Bend Park replaces, adds several MARKET PLACE rides for 2018; paints Tiki Island AT: Pam Sherborne [email protected]

BOWLING GREEN, KY. — Beech Bend Amusement Park's ride park opened for the summer season May 10. Al- though no major renovations were done during the off sea- son, there were some upgrades and additions. The park, which is family owned and operated, replaced The Tiki Island interactive its Tornado ride, which was play area structure within damaged last year when a tree Splash Lagoon Water Park fell on it. Charlotte Gonzalez, both before (right) and after general manager, said they (above) repainting were able to cover most of the by Baynum Painting. cost of the Wisdom product COURTESY BAYNUM from insurance. PAINTING, INC. "But, we were so, so lucky," she said. "The top half of a tree children's interactive play area just fell on the top of the ride. It with seven different slides and was operating at the time, but a large tipping bucket at the where it fell, there were empty top. Gonzalez said they had nights. Admission to Friday seats and it was more just on Baynum Painting do the work. Night Lights is $15. the top of the ride. "They did all the steel Admission prices for this "There was no storm, rain parts as well as painted and season were to remain the or anything happening at the gel coated the slides," Gonza- same as last year. In fact, Gon- time," she said. "It was a beau- lez said. "It looks great; like zalez said it has been several tiful, bright sunny Sunday. We brand new." seasons since they have had had only had that Tornado for Gonzalez was happy to to raise prices. Adults tickets about a year and a half." get the 2018 season underway. are $35.99 and tickets for se- Gonzalez said they also After getting the park open niors and children are $31.99. replaced their Mike Howard on May 10, she said the next Children two years of age and children's Super Slide. thing was to get the water park younger are free. "We also added a new open. That happened on May The park offers military Groovy Bus, made by S.B.F.," 19. They were hosting local discounts as well as a vari- she said. "That took the place school groups in mid-May. ety of discount promotions of our Western Train ride." For 2018, Friday Night throughout the season. The other thing done dur- Lights will continue. That was Park officials boast free ing the off season took place at started last year as a way for parking, free sunscreen and Beech Bend's Splash Lagoon guests to enjoy all the lights free tubes. Water Park. Park officials - de at the park, from 5-9:30 p.m. Attendance for the 2017 cided to paint the structures Splash Lagoon stays open season was more than 200,000, that make up Tiki Island, a from 5-7:30 p.m. on those which was up from 2016.

Keep our amusement park industry strong! Buy products and services from these suppliers. GreatCoasters-Ad Wickerman.pdf 1 4/10/18 12:01 PM June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 17 18 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 Summer-long Pixar Fest thoroughly animates Disneyland Resort Property-wide party a warm-up for June debut of Pixar Pier AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected]

ANAHEIM, Calif. — True to the globally popular Pixar Animation Studios films that inspired it, Pixar Fest, a new summer-long event at the Disneyland Resort, is — as its official theme describes — a “celebration of friendship and beyond.” “Beyond” in this case is synonymous with imagination. Two of Pixar Fest’s marquee offerings, the pyrotechnics-filled From music, food and décor to show “Together Forever — A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” marching daytime and night- at Disneyland and the returning parade Paint the Night at time entertainment, plus a new Disney California Adventure, incorporate state-of-the-art fireworks spectacular, Pixar lighting effects. Even the resort’s monorail (at right) has Fest embodies joyously creative joined the Pixar merriment. COURTESY DISNEYLAND RESORT “fan”-aticism. And it should: the studio’s movies have Garcia, a Disneyland Resort U.S.A. amassed 32 Academy Awards ambassador, described Pixar The grand tradition of Paint the Night has returned movable pieces that our per- and grossed more than $11 bil- Fest as a “full-resort event, Tinker Bell flying over Sleeping to the Disneyland Resort — formers can dance in. We’re lion at the worldwide box office which includes themed food Beauty Castle gets a crowd- this time bringing catchy tunes really pushing the boundaries to date. items available throughout the pleasing Pixar twist, with a spe- and an eye-popping rainbow with [battery-operated, cos- parks and our hotels. Our hor- cial flyover by none other than of more than one million LED tume-based] lighting systems.” ticulture team did an amazing Toy Story’s Buzz Lightyear. lights to DCA. Also at DCA, a collection of job around the property, too In addition to the pyrotech- The parade features fully Pixar short films is unspooling — there are even nods to the nics, two elaborate parades are illuminated characters from at the Sunset Showcase Theater. Pixar characters in the planters rolling out daily for guests. Cars, Monsters, Inc., Toy Story The park’s Paradise Gardens in Downtown Disney.” For the first time, Pixar Play and The Incredibles. The ani- area serves as home to The She added: “Our 30,000 cast Parade makes its way through mated stars of the latter film Pixarmonic Orchestra, a zany The first event of its type at members are extra excited. It’s Disneyland itself. It begins just franchise are given the oppor- seven-piece band that performs the Anaheim destination is dou- really fun.” as all Pixar films do — with an tunity to showcase their unique songs from Pixar films with bling as a warm-up for the offi- For the Pixar faithful, that’s appearance by the iconic Pixar powers along the parade route, cowbells, kazoos, duck calls, cial June 23 premiere of Pixar an understatement. Lamp and yellow Ball from the thanks to innovative visual sirens and slide whistles. Pier, the made-over attractions The new Disneyland original Pixar short, “Luxo Jr.” technology, new music ele- Beginning June 8, the area at Disney California fireworks show, “Together Joining the march are char- ments and high-tech pop art Pixar Pals Dance Party at Adventure (DCA) formerly Forever — A Pixar Nighttime acters from Up: Wilderness effects inspired by the midcen- Disneyland’s Tomorrowland known as Paradise Pier. Spectacular,” takes guests on Explorer Russell appears tury-modern style of the mov- Terrace will invite guests of all Launched in mid-April a journey that begins with the astride the flightless bird ies’ setting. ages to mingle and cut a rug and running through Sept. 3, meeting of unlikely Pixar pals Kevin, while Carl Fredricksen “When we closed Paint the with their favorite Pixar pals, Pixar Fest presents the studio’s and follows their adventures and Dug follow behind amid Night at Disneyland last year, including Russell, Dug, Woody, beloved stories in new ways as they overcome obstacles and foliage and snipe chicks — with we knew it still had lots of life Jessie, the Green Army Men at both Disneyland and DCA forge friendships. The immer- Carl’s tethered house floating in it, and that it was state of the and more. as well as in the Downtown sive presentation comes to life above. Characters from Inside art,” said Tracy Halas, resort A seemingly endless selec- Disney District. Characters and through projection mapping on Out also participate, with Joy show director and choreogra- tion of themed merchandise experiences from movies such as iconic park locations: Sleeping and Sadness perched atop pher, explaining to AT the deci- rounds out the resort’s celebra- Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., Finding Beauty Castle, the water screens memory orbs as they take flight sion to resurrect the at DCA. tory Pixar package. As Buzz Nemo and Up are featured. of the Rivers of America, the aboard Riley’s rocket wagon “Apart from our floats, our cos- Lightyear himself once famously In an onsite chat with facade of It’s a Small World and and Bing Bong cheers them on. tumes incorporate LED lights, said: “To infinity and beyond!” Amusement Today, Alexa the buildings of Main Street, After a 15-month hiatus, and at the same time they are •disneyland.com

Pixar Fest’s theming is pervasive at the Disneyland Resort, with character-inspired food treats and décor touches found throughout both parks and in Downtown Disney District. AT/DEAN LAMANNA June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 19

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20 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 Rocky Mountain Construction delivers record-setter Cedar Point continues roller coaster legacy with Steel Vengeance AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected]

SANDUSKY, Ohio — Many parks have their own claim to fame. Some might be associ- ated with certain foods, a style of theming or a signature ride. When people hear the words “Cedar Point,” the thing that instantly leaps to mind is “roll- er coasters.” The park has long had one of the world’s largest collections, but it isn’t just the quantity, it is the astonishing number of record holders that has helped the park build its reputation. The racing coaster Gemini The first drop on Steel Vengeance (above) plunges at 90 flirted briefly with records in degrees. Steel Vengeance’s sign (top right) signifies both 1978, but the real legacy started wood and steel. Model builder Matt Schmotzer works on a with Magnum XL-200 in 1989. large-scale model (bottom right) of Steel Vengeance in the It was the first coaster to sur- park's Town Hall Museum. AT/TIM BALDWIN pass 200 feet in height, and the impact on the park was unde- the steel track has done the trick. into this “hybrid” trend, niably huge. It sparked a for- “The look of a wooden Steel Vengeance has actual- mula of record-setting coasters coaster and the smoothness ly increased its length to an that has continued for the past of steel is unique,” said Tony amazing 5,740 feet. Top speed three decades. Each coaster of Clark, director of communica- is 74 mph. its type had to be the tallest, tions, Cedar Point. “The sign “There are so many awe- longest and fastest. and logo and name commu- some moments on the ride, but As Magnum had raised nicate exactly what it is. The I think the best part is the sec- an extended time period. And it western and different than the the bar, the park’s next legend- ride has come back with a ven- ond half when you go through was different because we were other eateries in the park.” ary king of the midway came geance as something new.” the structure. There are a lot doing it all right in front of the The area also helped tell with Millennium Force in 2000. “The sign really makes of surprises in there. It’s really guests’ eyes. There was no hid- the story of the new ride, said Breaking the 300-foot barrier a statement as you cross the dynamic,” McClure told AT. ing what we were doing.” Clark. “Maverick used to be at 305 feet, the ride went on railroad tracks,” added Jason “The real advantage to “It was our first time work- the king in Frontier Town. The to be voted Best Steel Coaster McClure, general manager, more height is more energy and ing with [Cedar Fair] and we story here is that the three char- in Amusement Today’s Golden Cedar Point. “It really personi- the ability to have longer track wanted it to be a successful and acters — Chess, Blackjack and Ticket Awards 10 times. fies the ride.” length,” said Alan Schilke of fun experience,” said Kilcup. Digger — they are somehow With the May 5 debut of “It’s an incredible win- Ride Centerline, who did the “We needed the 18 months to tied to Maverick and at one Steel Vengeance, the park’s win investment for both the layout design. “Larger, faster do this right.” point or another they were newest legacy ride has arrived. park and guests. Taking a roller elements are great, but the The three trains sport some chased out of Frontier Town,” Converting the wooden track coaster that was low on rider- overall number of airtime hills modifications than those previ- he said. Maverick is an Intamin Mean Streak coaster — a ship and turning it into what and time off the seat are what ously used by RMC. The load launched coaster added to the record-setting ride in 1991 — to many guests are already calling separates this ride from all on the wheels allows the sup- park in 2007, and the three char- a steel track attraction, the park the best Cedar Point coaster yet others.” plier to build taller rides with- acters in the new storyline are turned to Rocky Mountain represents the absolute best out- Three of the inversions are out pushing the envelope on the names on the three trains Construction. Having observed come for a low-ridership attrac- smooth, fluid barrel rolls, but the trains, according to Kilcup. for Steel Vengeance. A new tale this trend in the industry, man- tion,” said Anne Irvine, CEO the so-termed “snake dive” has In past years, each new has now become intertwined agement of Cedar Point took of Irvine Ondrey Engineering. become a notable moment. addition to Cedar Point has between the attractions. The the concept to a new level. “Much of the original frame- “You go into what looks been accompanied by a new, three characters can be seen “Hybrid” has become an work of the ride was able to like is going to be a 360-degree freshened reworking of that strolling the streets as well. industry term, one not fully be utilized, along with exist- (barrel) roll, but you don’t go area of the park. With the new Details are seen on the ride understood by the public or ing infrastructure, requiring all the way. It holds you upside attraction being in the Frontier as well. As thrill seekers climb embraced by coaster fans, but only modifications instead of down for a couple seconds and Town section of the park, Cedar the lift of Steel Vengeance, a ground-up construction proj- then flips back. It’s so butter Point graced the area with artis- typical evacuation and mainte- ect. Despite what some might smooth,” said Clark. tic accents. The music, lanterns, nance lights have been replaced perceive as a situation fraught “I really like the idea of new colors, a new stage and the by lanterns. Even the operators with limitations by using exist- stalling but going down to the thematic overlay to the shops get their own special touches ing structure, Steel Vengeance earth. It’s like a fighter jet expe- has pleased management with as the operating panel has spe- is the pinnacle example of how rience,” said Jake Kilcup, chief the revived look. cial graphics placed into the much creativity, excitement, operating officer of RMC. “We took advantage controls. and intensity is possible when Unlike most off-season of the theming in Frontier “It’s an easy-to-do remind- striving to ‘upcycle’ an older projects, Steel Vengeance was a Town,” said McClure. “We’re er that we are in the business roller coaster.” two-year project. not known for theming, but of fun,” said Irvine. “That fun Guests can easily tell “It really was a long pro- Frontier Town has been that doesn’t have to be limited to that Steel Vengeance is some- cess because of the nature of the way. We wanted to do more guest experience! For opera- thing different than what they ride and the scope of it,” said entertainment in the midways tors and maintenance to ‘get remembered from the past. McClure. “Once we decided to and we redid all of our shops behind the wheels’ of a control The characters of Chess, The new added height took do the conversion with RMC, — a lot of cool props, wagons, panel that speaks to the atti- Blackjack and Digger are the ride to 205 feet. Four inver- we knew we wanted to make it general store fixtures. And the tude of the ride, you’re helping seen on the midway. sions have been incorporated, taller. We wanted it be over 200 restaurants too; we changed to foster pride and excitement AT/TIM BALDWIN and contrary to most entries feet. That was going to give us all the menus to make it more in the staff.” June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 21 22 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 Rocky Mountain Construction supplies first Raptor Track rides Six Flags Fiesta Texas, California’s Great America open single-rail coasters AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected]

SAN ANTONIO, Texas and SANTA CLARA, Calif. — “It’s been in development for three years, so it is final- ly coming to fruition,” Jake Kilcup of Rocky Mountain Construction told Amusement Today. “We knew it was going to be a simple build and that was the goal of the design.” RMC introduced the com- pany’s innovative Raptor Track at the 2015 IAAPA Attractions Expo. Now, close to three years later, this new Dramatic curves accentuate the high speed on the new Wonder Woman Golden Lasso Coaster. AT/TIM BALDWIN genre — the single rail coaster — has officially debuted. es in width. but you always have that of the two are distinctly dif- show off what directions Six Flags Fiesta Texas was “The single wide vehicle anticipation of what it really ferent. The San Antonio ver- we can take with controls. able to grab the first of RMC’s and skinny little track ampli- is until you unwrap it — or in sion is accentuated by Greek Hopefully, a feature like this newest product. Named fy the feeling of height and this case, ride it!” “Themyscira” architectural will give the industry more Wonder Woman Golden Lasso speed,” said Alan Schilke Just weeks after the Texas detailing with columns and ideas for future innovations.” Coaster, the new ride is the first of Ride Centerline, who version opened, a mirror image arches with a large statue of The compact nature of roller coaster to be named after was responsible for the track opened at California’s Great the famed female in front of the rides made for a good fit the famed DC Comics super- engineering. “The beauty of America. Dubbed RailBlazer, the ride entrance. The spirit of within their respective parks. heroine. Following two week- the ride is how tight it can the new attraction is the first RailBlazer reflects the outdoor Wonder Woman Golden Lasso ends of previews for season turn, producing the most ele- new coaster to be added to aspects of the Bay Area and Coaster resides where a for- pass holders and members, the ments you can jam in per the park in five years. AT Central Coast with a nod to an mer shoot-the-chutes ride ran brightly colored coaster offi- foot of track.” asked General Manager Raul off-road adventure. Wooden for 25 years. The new attrac- cially opened on May 12. As riders are positioned Rehnborg what went into the decking, a waterway and tion soars over a new water “We are very excited to one in front of the other, there selection. rocky ravine give the coaster reservoir below and is the debut the world’s first single is a feeling of openness as the “Following the approval its own feel within the park. park’s tenth roller coaster. I-beam rail coaster,” said Fiesta single rail is so thin and noth- of the master plan in 2017, we RailBlazer’s first drop plunges RailBlazer is the ninth coaster Texas Park President Jeffrey ing is visible on either side. knew the next phase of Great through a rocky arch to add for Great America. Siebert. “This is an incredible The coaster features a America’s buildout needed to excitement for the rider. The wild transitions taken ride that delivers big thrills 90-degree first drop, the steep- be kicked off in a big way. As “When you’re building at a top speed of 53 mph make from start to finish. With the est at the park. From there, we evaluated potential part- a prototype, you know that the new installations at both launch of the Wonder Woman the layout features three inver- ners, it was clear that Rocky unknown challenges will arise. parks among the most intense coaster, Fiesta Texas has cre- sions and dramatically banked Mountain Construction’s No matter what is committed coasters in the ride lineup. ated an impressive trilogy of turns. Spectators are notice- Raptor roller coaster was the to paper, rules will change as “It’s a very different, inti- DC superhero attractions that ably marveled by the speed perfect fit, given their suc- the project progresses,” said mate experience — unlike also includes Batman: The and maneuvers. Riders are cess with other rides and Ondrey. “Having more than anything you have ever been Ride 4D Free Fly Coaster and undeniably wowed. the innovative style of roller one Raptor in a season at dif- on before,” said Brian Pastor, Superman Krypton Coaster. “There is a special kind coaster they were proposing. ferent times, though, we were senior PLC programmer for Six Flags Fiesta Texas con- of excitement when you work RailBlazer was the first attrac- able to pass along knowledge IOE. “Its small size should tinues to raise the bar with on an innovative project,” tion to be selected after the from Fiesta Texas to the project not be underestimated as it groundbreaking new rides said Brian Ondrey, president, master plan approval, so we at California’s Great America.” provides an incredibly intense and attractions every year.” Irvine Ondrey Engineering, are excited to give our guests “Being the first Cedar Fair thrill!” What makes this style of who oversaw the control sys- the opportunity to experience park to introduce a Raptor roll- coaster unique is the combi- tems. “Nobody truly knows this groundbreaking attrac- er coaster is very exciting. For nation of single-file seating what the experience will be tion,” Rehnborg said. California’s Great America, paired with a thin monorail like. It’s like a surprise gift: While the two coasters are the RailBlazer project means type of track just over 15 inch- you can see the size and shape, similar in layout, the theming presenting an entirely new type of ride experience to the region and provides an excit- ing first step in the buildout of the park, which will greatly enhance the guest experience,” added Rehnborg. Both coasters run with three trains. Six Flags has included a moving station to maximize capacity and the queue area groups riders to be ready as the vehicles move forward without stopping. “We are excited about the RailBlazer’s first drop plunges into a rocky ravine, with the whole ride experience offering an moving station feature at the The first drop is taken at 90 off-road feel. Raul Rehnborg, vice president and general manager of California's Great America ride in Texas,” said Ondrey. degrees, the steepest in the (right), stands adjacent to one of RailBlazer three trains. COURTESY CALIFORNIA'S GREAT AMERICA “It’s a great opportunity to park. AT/TIM BALDWIN June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 23 24 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018

S&S air launch coaster d’Alene, Ind., did the Thunder Run updates. Guests at Kentucky Kingdom will see headed to China more benches and shade structures as well as expanded dining areas and drink stations. LOGAN, Utah — S&S Park There also is a new show, “Avian Adventure.” Worldwide, Inc., will be • building and installing an air Post-its Diana and Dustin Stirling, operators of launch coaster for Changsa LocoLanding in Penticton, B.C., Canada, Window of the World, recently received an extension on their lease a theme park Changsa, COMPILED: to operate the park from the city until 2028. Hunan, China. The Stirlings are planning to invest about $2 The deal represents the Pam Sherborne million in the park and wanted the security latest of several projects S&S [email protected] of a longer-term lease before making that has undertaken in the country. Remarked Gerald Ryan, commitment. executive director of sales: “S&S is excited to be installing LocoLanding was started in 2001 by Diana our fifth air launch coaster in China.” Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn., Sterling’s parents as a mini-golf course; they The new ride will have a maximum height of 40 meters has announced the addition of PAW Patrol, began adding more attractions the next year. and a track length of 830 meters. Following a 100 kph launch, a new immersive experience set to open at After the Stirlings took over in 2011, they the train will negotiate more than 10 elements — including, Nickelodeon Universe in late summer. continued to add new attractions every year. for the first time in an air launch coaster, inversions. Based on Nickelodeon’s top-rated “We have 80 youths that we employ, all The coaster is expected to open in early 2019. animated preschool series PAW Patrol, local students,” Diana Stirling said. “We are Changsha Window of the World is the largest theme produced by Spin Master Entertainment, the first job for 90 per cent of our employees park in central China. Open year round, it is in a region con- the 4,000-square-foot attraction will light up That is a role we take seriously, training these sidered an important locus of travel, film, television, culture children’s imaginations as they recreate their future leaders.” and entertainment. favorite PAW Patrol missions inside the world Among the projects they are planning is a The park was established in 1997 and contains about of Adventure Bay. It will join the more than 27 renovation of the mini golf course with a fun- four dozen scaled-down replicas of the most famous tourist rides and attractions located inside the seven- fantasy storyline based on a tale of Penticton’s attractions in the world. acre theme park and the 520-plus shops and historical underwater gold mine. S&S, a leading ride manufacturer in the U.S., has installed attractions at Mall of America. • over 450 of its products in 30 countries around the globe. • The 65th annual opening day of •s-s.com Universal Studios Hollywood has set Kiddieland at Lincoln Park in Pittsburg, Kan., June 15 as the official grand opening of its comes with a new and improved addition this all-new DreamWorks Theatre featuring Kung season. Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest. Created The main feature of the city park has by DreamWorks Animation and Universal always been the train. It also was the first and Creative, the attraction will take guests on a oldest ride for more than six decades. But, journey that fuses storytelling with state-of- after 65 years, officials decided it was past the-art visual and environmental effects. time for improvements to the train. During The attraction will incorporate what the last 15 years, a retired local man kept the the press materials described as “first-ever machine running with fabrication, welding and integration of interior projection mapping custom parts. designed to engulf guests in 180 degrees of The city asked Vietti Auto Body Shop to immersive adventure.” fix them up and, with the help of Watco, paint Developed by the team at Universal new designs that are inspired by the city’s Creative, this technique features a series historic railroad — the Kansas City Southern. of immersive and visually dynamic scenic The improvements included new sides to the designs. Coupled with seven Christie 4K Boxer train that were installed, sandblasted and now cinema projectors and surround sound audio, sport a brand-new paint job. multisensory elements such as water and wind • will help guests feel more like participants that Holiday World, Santa Claus, Ind., opened spectators. for the season on May 3 with $3.5 million in • additions and improvements. Shanghai Disney Resort in China In addition to track improvements, The welcomed its first official guests to Disney- Voyage wooden roller coaster has a new Pixar Toy Story Land April 26, the first major control system. The Scarecrow Scrambler, a expansion at the resort since its grand opening classic flat ride added to the park in 1975, has in 2016. been restored. Guests also will find an electric Based on the Disney-Pixar film series, car charging station; new food items such as Shanghai Disneyland’s seventh themed land loaded waffle fries, sausage on a stick, turkey is full of oversized toys, new adventures and bowls, pulled pork Sandwiches; 12 Icee flavors; three new attractions: Slinky Dog Spin, Rex’s new Daily Deals; and new entertainment, Racer, and Woody’s Roundup. It also includes including a stunt show, a musical magic show a themed character greeting area called the and a strolling brass band. Meeting Post. Splashin’ Safari opened for the season • on May 10. New additions there include the Kentucky Kingdom in Louisville began Proslide Technology-supplied Tembo Falls, full-time operation over Memorial Day a waterslide complex with eight junior slides, weekend, setting the stage for a host of including twisters, a helix, a mini-bowl and two new attractions and experiences. The park racing slides; and Tembo Tides, a junior wave has added two new rides, Scream Extreme, pool plus spray features for younger children; manufactured by Zamperla, and the Rock ‘n’ and mini-cabanas called Riverside Retreats. Roller, by Wisdom. In addition, the Thunder A new elephant-themed water-play area Run wooden roller coaster underwent for younger children will open in June. This extensive retracking and now delivers a faster, fall, a large themed maze will be added to the smoother ride without sacrificing any of its activities during the park’s Happy Halloween characteristic air time. Amuse, out of Coeur Weekends. June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 25 Imax Corp. on deal-making spree in India MUMBAI, India — Thanks to partner- that the company’s 2017 ticket sales in ships it has formed with two exhibition the country increased 78 percent over chains in recent months, Imax Corp. has the previous year. “We’re seeing an evo- the big picture even more squarely in its lution in the world’s third-largest box sights in India. office market towards more premium, The large-format film technology event-driven cinema. company has added 15 new IMAX-brand “Imax is ideally positioned to work theaters to its network in the country together with world-class theater chain since February, with at least another 25 Inox, which shares our commitment to contracted to open. Continuing the boom quality and innovation.” are new deals it has struck with Inox Inox currently has an IMAX theater in Leisure Ltd., a multiplex chain based in Mumbai and another in Bangalore; both India, and Cinépolis India, a subsidiary opened in 2017. of Cinépolis, the world’s fourth-largest In its deal with Cinépolis India, Imax cinema exhibition company. will outfit four theaters in new complexes Imax’s latest agreement with Inox in the following cities: Bangalore, Kolkata, calls for five new IMAX theaters. The Navi Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram. screens will be added to new complexes Cinépolis India already has two success- — two of which are located in the city ful IMAX theaters located in Pune and of Delhi and one each in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai. Mumbai and Gurugram. Headquartered in New York, Toronto “We are very encouraged by the and Los Angeles, with additional offices rapid pace of our expansion in India, in London, Dublin, Tokyo and Shanghai, where we’ve nearly doubled our con- Imax has 1,370 theater systems operat- tracted network in the last year,” said ing in 75 countries. Imax CEO Richard L. Gelfond, noting —Dean Lamanna

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Ride Entertainment 1-410-643-9300 rideentertainment.com [email protected] 26 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 27 28 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 29 30 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 Maryland State Fair honors chairman’s 40 years of service Scholarship program renamed in tribute to F. Grove Miller

AT: B. Derek Shaw [email protected] TIMONIUM, Md. — The Maryland State Fair & Agricultural Society, Inc., recently honored one of its own in a private ceremony on the grounds of the organization’s suburban Baltimore property. F. Grove Miller, shown with his wife, Arlene, with whom he will celebrate 70 years of marriage this year, served four decades F. Grove Miller, who as chairman and president of the Maryland State Fair. Vintage photos show Miller accompanying state dignitaries on a has served as chairman and fairgrounds tour (IDC) in 1978 and, in 1981, and having just introduced the fair’s new official flag. president since 1978, received COURTESY MARYLAND STATE FAIR/STEPHEN MCDANIEL commendations at an event “We are honoring Grove who have participated in the ing students for their accom- board member, was promot- attended by family, friends, fel- for decades of selfless service Maryland State Fair. And he has plishments and helping them ed to chairman while Donna low board members and staff. to the Maryland State Fair & enlightened hundreds of thou- with their educational pursuits, Myers was elected president. Miller now will serve in the Agricultural Society, and also sands of fairgoers of all ages the scholarships are designed Myers is the first woman to role of chairman emeritus of for his role as farmer, advo- on the importance of agricul- to promote the importance of serve in the role since the the fair’s board and executive cate, statesman, role model and ture, 4-H/FFA [Future Farmers agriculture and participation in board’s incorporation in 1878. committee. friend,” said Andy Cashman, of America] and thoroughbred the Maryland State Fair. The 137th Maryland State During the ceremony, fair CEO. “Through vari- horse racing to Maryland and “It is only fitting that our Fair runs Aug. 23-Sept. 3. held in late April, the fair also ous efforts over the past four the world.” scholarship program be named Deggeller Attractions, Inc., out announced that its scholarship decades, Grove has promoted The organization awards after [Miller],” Cashman said. of Stuart, Fla., is the midway program would carry Miller’s and enhanced agriculture edu- nine $2,000 student scholarships In other news from the fair, provider. name. cation for thousands of youth annually. In addition to reward- Gerry Brewster, a longtime •marylandstatefair.com First North American fling Outdoor recreation, amusement park-style for portable Huss Frisbee MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — Strates Shows recently debuted a Huss Frisbee ride at the Horry County Fair. The first portable version of the ride in North America, it is owned by an indepen- dent operator traveling with Strates. The Frisbee, with an impressive capacity of 40, revolves and swings to a height of 67 feet while pulling a center rotation of 3 gs. Transported on four trailers, the ride requires two days for setup and 12-16 hours for teardown. Only three other portable Frisbees have been produced. They are located in Germany, Asia and the Arabian Peninsula. —B. Derek Shaw

Parks in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region that offer campgrounds and RV-friendly amenities attend the annual York RV Show in York, Pa. This year’s gathering, held in early March, featured 33 campgrounds, 12 RV dealers and 20 camping-related vendors. Sharon Hoff- man, flower crew manager at Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pa. (left), was on hand to promote the resort’s two campgrounds, while Becky Sprout, manager of A rare portable Huss Frisbee is making the rounds in North Dutch Wonderland’s Old Stream campground, represented her Lancaster, Pa., destina- America via an independent operator traveling with Strates tion. Nearly 6,000 people attended the three-day event. AT/B. DEREK SHAW Shows. COURTESY STRATES SHOWS June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 31 32 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 MIDWAY MIDWAYSCENE MARKET PLACE AT: B. Derek Shaw [email protected]

The Georgia National Fair & Agricenter in A 45-year-old employee of Lithia, Fla.-based Perry, Ga., is expanding its Georgia Grown build- Primetime Amusements, LLC, died in late April ing. Starting this year, it will be known as the Baby after reportedly falling from the Ring of Fire ride Barn — providing fairgoers the opportunity to at Kiwanis Fair in Alexander City, Ala. The incident witness live animal births throughout the event’s occurred while the worker was said to have been Oct. 4-14 run. inspecting a wheel assembly on the attraction and Organizers are hoping for 11 dairy cow births reportedly lost his grip, falling and sustaining head at the center, or one birth for each day of the fair. trauma. The incident happened prior to the mid- Five hog births also are expected. The fair will have way’s opening for the evening. veterinarians on hand to discuss the process as • each birth is happening and monitor the newborns Virginia’s Orange County Fair is chang- afterward. ing its dates this year. Typically held in July, the Organizers got the idea for the Baby Barn four-day event has been moved up to June from the Miracle of Birth Center at the Minnesota 20-23. The schedule change was prompted in State Fair. Pennsylvania’s York Fair, the Oklahoma part by concerns over midsummer heat and State Fair and the New York State Fair are among a storm that negatively impacted the opera- other fairs that feature animal birthing centers. tion last year. Previously marketed strictly as an Georgia National has used Reithoffer agricultural event, the fair is adding a carnival Attractions as its midway partner since launch- operation, Walnut Cove, N.C.-based Brinkley ing in 1990. Entertainment, Inc., which will be providing up • to 10 rides. Organizers are banking on the ride Scott Stoller, general manager of the Silver midway to generate additional revenue. Dollar Fair in Chico, Calif., has been named gen- • eral manager of the Colorado State Fair, effective As a result of altercations involving eight July 1. Stoller replaces Sarah Cummings, who left juveniles at the Britton Middle School Carnival late last year. Former Colorado State Fair General in Morgan, Calif., officials closed the midway two Manager Chris Wiseman has been serving in an days early. The annual event has been used as a interim capacity. fundraiser for the school to help finance assem- • blies, field trips and dances as well as sports pro- Cascade Sound & Stage Lighting, Inc. grams, athletic equipment and technology. of Salem, Ore., recently added outdoor sound Butler Amusements, a local family-owned- system products manufactured by Paris, France- and-operated business, was the carnival provider. based L-Acoustics to its lineup. The move The three sons of carnival owners Lance and Jill enhances the company’s technical support Moyer have attended the school, including one of regional concerts and touring performers. who is currently a student. To help off-set the Cascade provides sound to numerous fairs and school’s loss of revenue from the shuttered carni- carnivals in the Pacific Northwest, including the val, a GoFundMe page has been set up: gofund- Clark County Fair in Ridgefield, Wash., the me.com/5y3v7f-britton-carnival-loss. Washington County Fair in Hillsboro, Ore., and • the Oregon State Fair in Salem. Bryan Blair, general manager of the Elkhart • County 4-H Fair in Elkhart, Ind., has been named The International Independent Showmen’s CEO of the York Fair and York Expo Center Museum in Gibsonton, Fla., continues to grow in York, Pa. Blair is assuming the post held by — and in upward fashion. Recently, a statue of Michael Froehlich, who is retiring at the end of Johann Petrussen (“The Viking Giant”) that is this year. In the interim, Blair will serve as COO eight feet and eight inches in height arrived at effective Sept. 1. Prior to his four years in Elkhart, the facility, which has showcased artifacts from Blair spent the previous six with the Kentucky the American carnival and outdoor show busi- Exposition Center in Louisville, where he served ness industries since 2013. Petrussen, a native as expositions administrator — managing spon- Frederiksenof Iceland, joined1/7x3 Ringlingb/w 3/14/02 Bros and 11:22Barnum AM & Pagesorships 1 for the National Farm Machinery Show, Bailey Circus in 1948. Kentucky State Fair and the North American • International Livestock Exposition.

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WATER PARKS & RECREATION  Aquatica at SeaWorld San Antonio debuts waterslide complex from WhiteWater West — Page 36 Yas Waterworld to debut UAE’s first Cinesplash 5D AT: Jeffrey Seifert story ends with her teardrops [email protected] of innocence falling into an oasis that gives rise to the ma- ABU DHABI, United Arab jestic pearl, which towers over Emirates — Yas Waterworld the village — returning good is introducing a first-of-its- fortune to its residents. kind attraction to its part of Guests will follow the the Middle East. Called Cine- characters they have come to splash 5D and set to open know and love at Yas Water- this month, the concept takes world over the past five sea- 3D motion-based cinema to a sons as The Legend of the Lost whole new level with the ad- Pearl is presented through the dition of water — lots of it. immersive Cinesplash experi- When Yas Waterworld ence. The 3D film will allow opened in 2013, the water audiences to follow Dana’s park’s theme was based on an fun and courageous quest original and endearing story across the sands of Abu Dhabi that celebrates Emirati culture to recover her village’s right- and heritage. Visitors follow ful beacon of prosperity, the and participate in The Leg- mother pearl. The mother pearl, visible throughout the park, is central to Yas Waterworld’s theming. Be- end of the Lost Pearl featuring In keeping with a water low, divers retrieve the mother pearl from the ocean and return it to the village. Dana, an Emirati girl who sets park experience, the show’s COURTESY PHILIP LANGE, SHUTTERSTOCK; CINESPLASH out on an important quest to effects will include water help her village. sprays, water explosions, rain, ences and we are very proud The Cinesplash attraction waterfalls, water guns and to be the first water park to will enable the park to tell the fountains. Lighted bubbles in introduce this attraction to unique story in a particularly the theater walls and ceiling our guests in the region,” said vivid and memorable way. will be accompanied by extra- Bianca Sammut, park general According to the tale, div- dimensional fog, leg-tickling manager. “Providing visitors ers from the village of Qaryat and wind effects, plus three with fun aquatic adventures Al Jewana find what they be- degrees of seat motion. with local personality is at the lieve to be the mother of all Guest “immersion” in the heart of what we do at Yas Wa- pearls — a giant one endowed adventure takes a literal turn terworld, and we are grateful with magical properties that at the climax of the experience, for our team’s hard work and bring wealth and prosperity to when water floods the theater relentless dedication in bring- the village. When the pearl is to a depth 15 inches. ing this experience to life. We swept away by a fierce storm, The Cinesplash 5D theater look forward to celebrating the the village slowly loses its and film is a project of Aus- legacy of our home through wealth and life for its people tria-based Attraction! GmbH, this dynamic experience.” becomes difficult. which creates media-based Aside from Cinesplash, tions all draw inspiration from while learning about the in- Dana, the young heroine, experience products for theme the legend-based theme of Yas the story. credibly rich, 7,000-year histo- is supported and guided by parks, science centers, fam- Waterwold is carried through An interactive game called ry of pearl diving in the Mid- animals, including a dolphin, a ily entertainment centers and its architecture, with the giant SplashQuest invites children dle East. Oyster beds in the falcon and a camel, during her other industry sectors. pearl mounted atop a stone of all ages to participate in Persian Gulf were the premier travels. She is also followed by “This is undoubtedly one pillar located in the center to a treasure hunt through the sites for pearl diving, once the bandits and a snake who want of the most exciting new addi- of the park. The characters, park on their own quest to most lucrative profession in the pearl for themselves. The tions to our lineup of experi- shops, restaurants and attrac- recover the lost pearl, all the the region. Featuring more than 40 rides, slides and attractions, including Bandit Bomber, a Vekoma suspended splash party coaster, Yas Waterworld also offers an underwater div- ing show and diversity of sea- sonal events. The park has been recog- nized as one of the world’s best water parks, garnering accolades and more than 30 awards from numerous inter- national publications, travel organizations and associa- tions, including the World Waterpark Association and Dana, the young heroine of the legend behind the water park, interacts with some of her animal friends. IAAPA. COURTESY CINESPLASH •yaswaterworld.com June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 35 36 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 SeaWorld San Antonio’s Taumata Racer brings competitive fun WhiteWater West supplies Aquatica waterslide complex AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected]

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Having opened in 2012 with a diverse mix of waterslide attractions, animal encoun- ters, water play areas and resort theming, Aquatica at SeaWorld San Antonio has installed its first major addi- tion: Taumata Racer, a six-lane waterslide complex. Standing proudly with Aquatica San Antonio’s latest addi- Like a similar attraction tion is Byron Surrett, park vice president; Josie Villela, asso- at Aquatica Orlando, the ciate communications manager; Lise Collins, director of op- new ride was supplied by erations; and Carl Lum, park president. Racing adds to the WhiteWater West. competitive fun (right) on Taumata Racer. AT/TIM BALDWIN Nestled between two other waterslide towers — Walhalla racing nature of the side-by- Taumata Racer was a prov- Wave and Tassie’s Twisters / side lanes makes it a competi- en choice for the San Antonio Hoo Roo Run — the 2018 addi- tive ride. facility. tion utilizes an entirely new The waterslide sends rid- “It’s a family ride, so it has tower structure but did not ers first through an entry tun- a 42-inch height requirement,” require additional concrete nel that makes a swooping, said Byron Surrett, vice presi- pathways. 180-degree turn, then straight- dent, Aquatica San Antonio Lise Collins, the park’s “Also, a person is used to con- Taumata Racer, named for ens out to make two addi- and Discovery Point. “That’s director of operations, found trol the line at the bottom and a famous hill in New Zealand, tional drops over the 375-foot key. Some of the other rides the staffing to be in line with to enforce attire requirements opened for spring break this slide length and 55-foot height are 48 inches. This is a great efficient operations. “We only to make sure they don’t get past March. Riders in six lanes difference. ride the family can get on and need one person dispatching to the top and then have to be zoom downhill headfirst on Having found success play together and race each at the top and then another foam bodysurfing mats. The at other Aquatica facilities, other down.” person at the runout,” she said. 4See AQUATICA, page 38 June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 37 38 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 NEWSSPLASH AT: Jeffrey L. Seifert [email protected]

Wibit Sports, the Germany-based com- including rebranding it as Atlantic Splash pany that is revolutionizing waterplay with its Adventure. Six new waterslides are under inflatable obstacle courses, is introducing its constructions and the existing waterslides are toughest challenge yet. Ninja Warrior UK is the being refurbished. Other renovations include star new attraction at Liquid Leisure Aqua Park upgrades to the park's buildings, landscaping, in Datchet, England. The course, full of chal- the food outlet and changing rooms. Atlan- lenging obstacles, will allow brave and strong tic Playland dates back to the 1970s, but had contestants to make it to the end and be the been looking rundown the last several years. last man standing. The two-person challenge is The new owners saw potential in the property a brand new feature, offering participants the and wanted to keep it as an important part of chance to tackle aqua park obstacles while also the community. racing against each other and the clock. • Liquid Leisure was already home to one of El Paso, Texas, is in the midst of an ambi- the world's largest Wibit aqua park obstacle tious aquatics plan that has added spray parks courses. The complex offers wakeboarding to the city along with an Olympic-sized swim- and waterskiing on a state-of-the art cable ming pool and a new indoor competitive pool. lake, paddle boating, open water swimming The city is also planning to add five water parks and the massive Wibit floating obstacle course. and a second Olympic-sized outdoor pool The Ninja Warrior UK Aqua Park is al- along with another indoor competitive pool by ready open to the public and often sells out 2020. The five regional water parks will have for the day. Packages are available to pair the amenities such as lazy rivers, climbing walls, lap Ninja Warrior course with the standard obsta- pools and zero-depth water entry for all ages cle course, and/or waterski and wakeboard and skill levels. The parks are expected to cost experiences. approximately $7.5 million each, representing • a total investment of about $37.5 million. Some Not to be outdone, The Adventure Dock of the parks will see renovations of existing Co., near the Albert Dock, Liverpool, England, properties including transforming pools that is offering its version of a Ninja-style water were more than 50 years old and were closed course. The Adventure Dock utilizes floating due to structural problems. The projects are obstacles from Seattle-based Union Aqua- being funded by $473.2 million of quality of life Taumata Racer features six lanes, with riders descending parks. This course consists of more than 50 bonds that voters approved in 2012. from an overall height of 55 feet. AT/TIM BALDWIN elements, ranging from tame to tall and intimi- • dating, providing varying challenges of physi- Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Arlington, AQUATICA to a wave pool, lazy river and cal and mental ability. One element, the Nar- Texas, debuted its new Splashwater Beach Continued from page 36 multiple children’s areas and rows, stands 10 feet tall and is 20 feet long. Its the first weekend in May. Designed for tod- leisure pools. cliff-like challenge is designed to separate the dlers and pre-teens, the 40 interactive water turned down. From a guest “We were very happy to meek from the mighty. As with most obstacle features have a broad appeal and can be fun service standpoint, we want to work with WhiteWater again,” courses, visitors purchase a ticket for a limited- for thrill-seekers in training of all ages. The re- take care of that at the bottom.” Surrett said. “They were a great time session. The Adventure Dock sells one vamped 20,000-square-foot area, themed to a “Not only is it a great contractor in terms of being on hour sessions for £20 per person (US$27). The tropical oasis, also includes a large lounge area family experience, it provides time and handling issues we ticket includes free use of a wetsuit, buoyancy for parents to relax and watch over their chil- another element for families had. We are very happy with it. aid and a helmet. dren as they find new ways to get drenched. to do while being in a resort- “One of the other things • Six different water action zones, supplied by like atmosphere,” Aquatica we really like about this ride Epic Waters, the municipally-owned in- Splash Pads USA, are filled with a variety of President Carl Lum told is if you go around the park, door water park in Grand Prairie, Texas, wel- geysers, sprays, water curtains and water can- Amusement Today. “I think it most of our attractions are a comed its 100,000th visitor less than 100 days nons. is what Aquatica does so well. type of tube ride. This is a body after opening. The 80,000-square-foot facility “This new tropical oasis will provide hours “Folks come to SeaWorld slide and it goes pretty fast. has been gathering accolades from travel me- of water fun and strengthens our ongoing for vacation, and Aquatica The line isn’t too long because dia throughout the U.S. The Travel Channel commitment to offer exciting, new experienc- is another day of activity. we can dispatch six at a time. listed the park as one of the "8 most incredible es that can be shared with family and friends,” They’re spending two or three That gives us a thrill type ride, indoor water parks," joining the ranks of top- said Steve Martindale, president, Six Flags days here.” but families can do it. We’re tier waterpark destinations across the U.S. Epic Hurricane Harbor. SeaWorld San Antonio cre- looking forward to the summer Waters was also selected by Texas Hill Coun- • ated the second gate in 2012, days when we’re really busy try for inclusion on the tourism magazine’s “5 Lazy Splash Ranch, Kilgore, Texas, although the park had previ- and can test what that through- Indoor Waterparks for the Most Fun in Texas” opened to the public at the end of April. The ously included a water park in put is. The numbers have been list, which singles out the top indoor water- splashpad has been two years in the making the SeaWorld admission. The good so far.” park destinations across the state. Located in and was partially funded by charitable dona- transformation into Aquatica As with everything at the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area, tions from local residents and businesses. In added major attractions and Aquatica, there is a distinct Epic Waters is said to be the largest indoor 2016, Kilgore Mayor Ronnie Spradlin issued magnified the resort aspect, as architectural look. “We try to waterpark under a single retractable roof in a $200,000 challenge grant that resulted in well as incorporated animal stick with the theme,” Surrett North America. Noteworthy features include a more than a year of fundraising, volunteerism encounters into the water park said. “The tops of the towers curved retractable roof, three "first-in-the in- and dozens of in-kind work and gifts from the experience. Discovery Point, have sort of a butterfly look.” dustry" slides, one of the longest-indoor lazy community. According to the mayor, the re- an animal interaction area “If you have good design rivers in Texas, and a 4,000-square-foot arcade. sponse from the community was significant, where guests can swim and in your theming, you can have • with concrete companies donating a portion play with dolphins and other good value from a cost per- Atlantic Playland, Halifax, Nova Scotia, of the concrete, and contractors offering to sea life, was added in 2016. spective and still have a good is getting a much-needed facelift. The park volunteer their services. Admission to the Lazy Taumata Racer becomes experience for the guest,” Lum was sold last December, and the new owners Splash Ranch is free; the splashpad is open the sixth large waterslide expe- said. “You can do both.” are making significant changes to the park, weekdays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. rience at the park, in addition •aquatica.com/san-antonio June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39 Schlitterbahn Riverpark & Resort Corpus Christi sold at auction NEWSSPLASH AT: Jeffrey Seifert Jennifer Hoff, an officer mated $70,000 in outstanding tion by an engineer. nounced the closure of the golf [email protected] with Diamond Beach Holdings, utility payments. A few days There were no changes for course to allow Schlitterbahn said in a news release: “We are later, Schlitterbahn made a pay- those who had purchased tick- to concentrate on the core ele- CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas pleased to be able to work with ment to the city of $56,267.25 ets or season passes, or have ments of the facility — mainly — Schlitterbahn Riverpark Schlitterbahn to keep the water covering the entire past due bal- booked reservations at the the water park. However, the & Resort Corpus Christi has park operating for the benefit of ance of its water bill. resort after May 26. Groups City of Corpus Christi advised been sold to its largest credi- our customers and the commu- The new owners agreed to and individuals who had pur- the new owners that the tax in- tor. Diamond Beach Holdings, nity.” delay the park opening for the chased tickets in advance for centives granted in 2012 includ- an affiliate company of Inter- Corpus Christi Mayor Joe season from April 28 until May the days between April 28 and ed an agreement that the golf national Bank of Commerce McComb stated that he was re- 26, in time for the Memorial Day May 26 were able to go to an- course remain open. When ad- (IBC), Laredo, Texas, purchased assured by the bank's purchase weekend. This gave Schlitter- other Schlitterbahn property or vised about possible violations the property at a courthouse of the property. He is hopeful bahn the opportunity to follow schedule dates for the Corpus of the agreement, Diamond auction for $20 million on May that once operations resume its extensive annual inspection Christi resort later in the season. Beach Holdings said the golf 1. There were no counter bids. and money is generated, the process, which included an in- Shortly after the purchase, course would reopen in order to IBC assumed ownership of the property can address the esti- dependent third party inspec- Diamond Beach Holdings an- comply with the agreement. resort property which included a nine-hole golf course, the Ve- randa Restaurant, a 92-room hotel with meeting space and multiple bars, as well as the wa- ter park. The 541 acres surround- ing the park, which were to be developed into a San Antonio- WE KNOW ABOUT type river walk, were foreclosed YOUR NEEDS: upon in 2017. Axys Capital Credit purchased that property Customised solutions through three separate transac- Certifications & documentations tions totaling $18 million. Axys for all national requirements was on hand at this latest auc- tion to observe the proceedings. Professional retrofitting for existing rides Keen-Summit Capital Part- ners, a New York City broker- Transports passengers, rafts and tubes age firm handled the bankrupt- More information: sunkidworld.com cy sale. According to the details provided by the firm, the win- ning purchaser took title of the property with no "liens, claims, encumbrances" consistent with Section 363 of the bankruptcy code. In 2015 IBC provided fi- nancing for development of the property to Upper Padre Part- ners, LP. A separate $5 million infrastructure grant from the city was given to Upper Pa- dre Partners. The city's type A # 1 grants can be awarded to com- WORLDWIDE panies that pledge to retain jobs, Conveyor belt solutions create jobs or construct build- for rafts, tubes ings. Those grants are paid by a and people 0.125-cent city sales tax set aside for economic development. The city also provided a multi-year tax abatement to help with the project development and early stages of operation. The water park opened in the summer of 2016, but filed for bankruptcy last May. When the limited partnership failed to Sunkid – Waterpark Conveyors make payments and defaulted +3500 Installations I 68 Countries I Inclines up to 900 I World Wide Service on the $28 million loan, IBC filed a lien against the property. Since Contact us! IBC was owed more than the sunkidworld.com | Tel: +43 5412 68131 $20 million auction price, the bank made a credit bid against the property's debt rather than putting up cash. Although the ownership has changed, the resort will con- tinue to operate as Schlitterbahn Riverpark and Resort under a li- censing agreement with Schlit- terbahn Waterparks & Resorts of New Braunfels Texas. 40 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018

BUSINESS & NEWSMAKERS  Women of Influence — Page 43 / People Watch — Page 44 / Market Watch — Page 45 Legoland Castle Hotel in Calif. throws open doors for guests AT: Dean Lamanna story, every wall, floor and included with each guest’s [email protected] Lego model is designed to stay and includes made-to- make guests feel like they’re order items along with a CARLSBAD, Calif. — in an actual castle.” buffet. In royal ceremonial fashion, “We’re excited to open a The Royal Courtyard trumpeters announced the second hotel, having learned offers children and families grand opening of Legoland from the first how power- multiple play areas, a giant Castle Hotel at Legoland ful the brand is,” said Peter movie screen, a resort-style California Resort on April 27. Ronchetti, resort general pool with interactive water Hundreds of media and manager. “Not only will this features, a hot tub and a tented special guests watched and hotel bring more people to stage for live plays and shows. applauded as knights on hors- the beautiful city of Carlsbad, In other Legoland es, a young girl squire and a which benefits local business, California news, Sea Life young boy knight joined in but we’re adding more than Aquarium has opened two a confetti-filled celebration of Legoland Castle Hotel had its grand opening April 27. The 200 jobs — further boosting new exhibits: “Sea at Night,” the new lodge — the entrance 250-room lodge offers themed accommodations outfitted the economy in the region.” showcasing the ocean’s bio- key for which was delivered with more than 2,100 whimsical Lego models. A royal Lego statue marks luminescence, and “Shark via a swooping hawk to Merlin COURTESY LEGOLAND CALIFORNIA RESORT the entrance to Legoland Mission!,” an interactive edu- the Wizard. Castle Hotel. It is just one of cational display utilizing three The three-story, 250-room Dragons, and Magic Wizard. time is an awesome sight,” the lodge’s 2,100-plus Lego giant touch screens to educate hotel — the second to open at Upon entering Legoland said Frank Idris, hotel gen- models created from more kids about sharks and rays. the Greater San Diego destina- Castle Hotel, guests first step eral manager. “Our guests than three million bricks. This month, Lego Star tion in five years — immers- into the Grand Hall, where have asked for an even more In the Dragon’s Den, the Wars Days — with costume es guests in a creative Lego they are met by a Lego wiz- immersive experience [than hotel’s full-service, sit-down contests, Miniland scavenger world, with every room fully ard before taking a magical the resort’s first Lego-themed restaurant, guests can watch hunts, brick-building chal- themed to create a castle fan- levitating lift (elevator) to their hotel], and that’s exactly chefs preparing their food lenges and more — return to tasy. Guests can choose from adventure. what we’re giving them with and enjoy entertainers within the park for two weekends: three different room themes: “Seeing guests walk into Legoland Castle Hotel. Not a Lego model-accented din- June 2-3 and 9-10. Royal Princess, Knights and the Grand Hall for the first only does every room tell a ing atmosphere. Breakfast is •legoland.com Premier Parks named operator of Santa Monica’s Pacific Park SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Premier Parks, LLC, continue the attraction’s daily operations under the has become the new operator of Pacific Park on the new ownership. historic Santa Monica Pier. Mary Ann Powell, who joined Pacific Park as The iconic, two-acre seaside amusement park, CEO in 1997 and acquired the park’s operating com- which features 12 rides, 14 midway games, an ocean- pany in 2012, achieved continuous year-over-year front food plaza and beachside retail, joins Premier’s revenue growth at the location. She also streamlined portfolio of 15 theme and water parks across the U.S. operations — creating an industry-leading customer and Canada. The properties, many of which bear the service program, opening 25 rides and attractions, Wet ‘n’ Wild name, enjoy a combined annual atten- refurbishing the midway games area and branding dance of approximately six million. the oceanfront food plaza. “Pacific Park is a terrific addition “I am grateful to the amazing team at Pacific Park to our diverse portfolio of theme and and the local community for their support in making water park properties,” said Kieran it a family favorite,” Powell said. “I’m so proud to be Burke, chairman, president and CEO a part of the overwhelming success that it is today.” Santa Monica’s oft-filmed Pacific Park has joined of Premier Parks. “Its location on the While Premier Parks, LLC now operates Pacific the operations portfolio of Premier Parks, LLC. Santa Monica Pier, its worldwide rec- Park, the ground lease and physical assets are owned COURTESY PACIFIC PARK/FABIAN LEWKOWICZ ognition and [its reputation as a] top by EPR Properties of Kansas City, Mo. EPR is a spe- locals’ destination provides us with a Burke cialty real estate investment trust (REIT) that invests education segments, exceed $6.6 billion. unique opportunity.” in properties in select market segments which require Premier Parks’ Burke formerly served as chair- Pacific Park’s present management team, led by unique industry knowledge. Its total investments, man and CEO of Six Flags Entertainment Corp. Jeff Klocke, vice president and general manager, will primarily covering the entertainment, recreation and —Dean Lamanna

EUROPEAN SPARE AND REPLACEMENT PARTS IMPORTER SINCE 1982 NORTH AMERICAN PARTS INC. 61C AERO DRIVE, BUFFALO, NEW YORK USA 14225

PHONE: (716) 839-4791 FAX: (716) 839-4506 EMAIL: [email protected] www.nap-inc.com SERVING THE AMUSEMENT INDUSTRY WE’VE KEPT YOUR RIDES IN MOTION SINCE 1982 June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 41 Industry consultant International Theme Park Services turns 35 CINCINNATI, Ohio — International Theme Speigel said. “In the end, that is what it is all projects in 50 countries. Park Services, Inc. (ITPS), a leading indepen- about.” “Every project is important,” said Pat dent, full-service amusement and leisure industry Speigel started his career at age 13 as a ticket Westerman. “A mega-destination and a stand- consulting company, marked its 35th anniversary taker at Cincinnati’s Coney Island amusement alone attraction may have different impacts finan- in March. park, where he worked his way up to the position cially, but their importance to the backbone of our Founded in 1983 by Dennis Spiegel, cur- of assistant general manager. He became part industry is equal. That’s why we have worked with rent president of ITPS, the company has two vice of a leadership contingent for Taft Broadcasting mega projects like Lotte World in Seoul, South presidents, Pam Westerman and Shawn Haas, Co. that planned, developed and opened Kings Korea, and Enchanted Kingdom in the Philippines, who have been on the team for 30 and 23 years, Island theme park just north of Cincinnati. and also with regional projects like the Newport respectively. ITPS has traveled to countries on all Speigel was an integral part of the Kings Aquarium in Kentucky and the Toledo Zoo.” five continents to help clients achieve their dream Island management team, which also built and With advanced technologies and continued of opening a successful leisure attraction. operated Kings Dominion in Doswell, Va. Having development in Asia, Eastern Europe and around The company’s motto, “Where Fun is a Serious advanced to vice president of international opera- the world, Speigel expects ITPS to remain busy for Business,” rings true today even more than it did tions for Taft, he observed a need for a consulting years to come. when ITPS was formed. “No matter where we go, company that could provide assistance to people “At the end of the day, what we do is put whether here in the U.S., or in China, Vietnam, worldwide who wanted to plan and build theme smiles on people’s faces,” he said. “It doesn’t get Russia, Spain, Brazil or Ukraine, the common parks and leisure attractions. better than that.” denominator is that people want to have fun,” ITPS has since been involved with over 500 —Dean Lamanna S&S Worldwide moving ahead with relaunch of Steeplechase AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected]

LOGAN, Utah — With some striking ride vehicles on display, S&S Worldwide hosted one of the most well- attended press announcements at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2017 in Orlando last November. The company, having acquired the rights to Arrow and its catalogue, had been look- The Steeplechase's dips, dives and curves take place on a single rail. Racing (right) gives the ride an added measure of ing to reintroduce some classic interactive exhilaration. COURTESY S&S WORLDWIDE rides from the past. After some consideration, the Steeplechase track. That allows us to do some two such rides. The original from Amusement Today, asked to Since the IAAPA debut, S&S was chosen as the project on things a little more dynamically at Knott’s Berry Farm sport- hop aboard. The consensus was executives have said interest has which to move forward. with the track design and vehi- ed a motorcycle theme and that the ride was exceptionally come from parks of all sizes, S&S worked with the U.K.’s cle design.” was eventually modified into smooth, and that it offers a great including family entertainment Blackpool Pleasure Beach and To bring safety up to mod- soap box derby vehicles for family-friendly experience with centers, midsize parks and larg- got the park’s feedback on ern standards, the engineers higher throughput. Blackpool the right amount of thrills. er park chains. relaunching the ride. The park worked at restraining riders with has continued to maintain the “We give our team excel- The coaster can feature vari- enthusiastically encouraged more than just the strap in the Steeplechase motif since the ride lent marks for engineering a ous drive system options, includ- S&S to do so because of the past and have implemented a was built in 1977. track, vehicle and braking sys- ing chain, cable and magnetics. ride’s popularity at the seaside lap bar without losing the feel Historians can trace the ori- tem which produced predict- “The simplicity of the vehi- park. of riding a horse. Riders will still gins of the ride to the beginning ed results,” said Gerald Ryan, cle made it quick to assemble The obstacle to overcome straddle the saddle for that aura of the 20th century. As early executive director of sales and easy to inspect and main- was the height requirement: 50 of authenticity but can now do so as 1908, Steeplechase Park in administration for S&S. “We’ve tain,” Ryan said. “The project inches, precluding ridership by securely. The restraint fits people Brooklyn, N.Y., had multiple tested riders from small kids gave us some excellent develop- kids. of various heights and sizes, so lanes of riders on horses travers- to grandparents, and they have ment ideas which will increase “We’ve been able to lower that is no longer a barrier. ing the single rail. fully enjoyed the experience of the S&S product lineup.” the ride height to a 42-inch min- Horses are the obvious As the new S&S version is the ride.” •s-s.com imum,” said Preston Perkes, theme, but S&S is making sev- in development, the manufac- director of administration, S&S. eral theming options available, turer can give clients numerous “We’ve taken the center of grav- including dinosaurs. options. In addition to multiple ity and brought you closer to the Arrow produced only lanes, a more compact model requiring less ground space uses transfer sections of track — allowing riders on two tracks switch lanes and bypass the sta- tion as the next set of riders are taking their positions. By switching lanes, passengers can ride both sides before their ride comes to an end. S&S has a prototype track set up at the company’s new headquarters. During the grand opening of the facil- Amusement Today’s Tim Baldwin and Gary Slade take the The Steeplechase is a reintroduction of a classic attraction ity, some industry profession- Steeplechase prototype for a spin. from Arrow’s past. AT/TIM BALDWIN als, including staff members COURTESY QUINN CHECKETTS 42 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 43 Anya Tyler Design Engineer, Skyline Attractions, LLC INFLUENCE Orlando, Fla. A view from the top… Anya Tyler is a design engineer for Skyline Attractions LLC, based in Orlando, Fla. The company debuted its first product at the November 2014 International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Expo. That ride, Strike-U-Up, was the first under the heading of GamesURide. Even though it was 2014 when the first Skyline Attractions ride debuted, those who founded and work at the company had many years of cumulative experience in the industry.

Accomplishments and affiliations… •Graduated with a Bachelor of Science in engineering with a mechanical specialty. •Participates in events associated with IAAPA as well as Themed Entertainment Association (TEA). Youthful dream, bright future ORLANDO, Fla. — Anya Ty- in this fun industry and make peo- ler knew even before she was tall ple smile. I don't think people have enough to ride a roller coaster that as much fun as they should." she wanted to design and build one. As she continued with her Her family used to take sum- dreams, she attended a small en- mer trips to Kings Island, Ohio. gineering school, the Colorado She had to stand by and watch her School of Mines, Golden, Colo. By older brothers, Daniel and Chris her junior year, she became heav- Lehner, ride many of the rides she ily involved in her major. When she couldn't. But, as soon as she was was 21 years old, she attended her tall enough, they took her aboard first IAAPA convention and trade The Beast. show. That was it, she said. "I had been doing some re- "That was the ride and the mo- search online about companies ment that was a huge influence on and associations," she said. "I also and designed theme parks, water tractions, Tyler became a part of me," Tyler said. "It defined the mo- had met Evan Souliere when he parks and entertainment centers. their team. ment and gave me inspiration to was with Great Coasters Interna- "He really needed the help at At Skyline she is a design en- actually do this. I have a picture of tional. That company was holding a the time so he gave me a chance," gineer in charge of the mechanical that coaster on my wall right now. coaster workshop and I attended." she said. "I ended up going to team. "I was always really good at He encouraged her to visit Singapore twice in that first year "Since we are a small company, math and science," she said. "And, the IAAPA event. She did, and her to supervise the construction of a we all pretty much do a little bit of I could do puzzles. People used to mother, Dana Beardson, went with water park. It was quite interesting everything," she said. get mad at me because I would her. being a blond hair and blue-eyed Tyler doesn't know what the find the pieces so quickly." "Some people remember me girl over there. next 10 years might bring. She also received a lot of fam- being the student who brought my "It was definitely a thing," she "But, I do hope I am still in this ily encouragement. However, her mother to the tradeshow," Tyler said. "I got the looks, and I got industry and I hope I am still work- biggest supporter, her brother said. questioned sometimes about what ing at Skyline," she said. Daniel, passed away when she was But that was okay with her. She I was doing on the site. In her seven years in the indus- 17 years old. was able to network with people in "It is not as unusual here for try, Tyler has seen, "a huge demand "That sort of changed things the industry. She had no idea just a woman to be on a construction for things to be new and different. I for me," she said. "He was really how big it was until that year. She site, but it is in some other coun- also see a huge gap in age in peo- my main cheerleader. It made me received a lot of friendly responses tries," she said. ple in the industry. There are those re-evaluate my life." and maybe a few not so friendly. After Dream Park, Tyler went that have been in the industry for 40 The re-evaluation didn't take But she got through it. to work at Great Coasters Inter- years or so and then there are young her away from her dream of being She graduated from the engi- national. Her work there included people coming out of college want- in the amusement industry; it just neering school a year later in 2011, overseeing projects. ing to get in." changed her perspective. when she was 22 years old. She ap- Chris Gray, Jeff Pike and Evan Whatever her future holds, "I am not the type to really plied for and got a job working for Souliere were at Great Coasters at Anya Tyler will make sure it brings want to draw the squiggly lines of Don McCrary at Dream Park Inter- the time. When the three became smiles to many faces. a coaster," she said. "I want to be national, a company which planned partners and started Skyline At- —Pam Sherborne 44 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 PEOPLE

VRROUNDUP Zamperla Group, a global leader in the AT: Dean Lamanna design and manufacture of amusement rides, [email protected] has announced the departure of Valerio Ferrari, who served as CEO of the company’s Boonton, In mid-May, Amusement Today was invited • N.J.-based Central Amusement International, to try out Alien: Descent, a new free-roaming Seattle area-based VRstudios, a leading LLC, the operating entity of amusement facilities VR attraction located in The Outlets at Orange provider of large-scale, free-roaming, multiplayer including New York City’s Victorian Gardens in mall, south of Anaheim. Occupying a storefront VR solutions for location-based entertainment Central Park and Luna Park at Coney Island. Ferrari adjacent to GameStop and an AMC Theatres (LBE), has unveiled VRcade PowerPlay, its flag- Ferrari had been with Zamperla for 27 years. Alberto Zamperla, multiplex, the experience — featuring atmo- ship, next-gen competitive team eSport for LBE CEO and president of Zamperla, will oversee the development of spheric, fully acted pre-show preparation and VR arenas. It can be dynamically configured with the Italian company’s stateside branch. VR play set within the Alien movie universe millions of distinct combinations of multiplayer Award-winning amusement industry veteran Mike Fijas — finds participants joining an elite military game modes, arm cannon presets and battlefield has joined Central Florida-based Innovative squad sent to investigate a distress signal from configurations. VRcade PowerPlay is designed to Attraction Management, Consulting and Risk an outer space mining outpost. The experi- be played by two to eight eAthletes and is man- Prevention, LLC, as director of operations. With ence features wireless, backpack-free technol- aged by the VRcade Attraction Management a wealth of experience in both the domestic and ogy developed by Pure Imagination Studios, Platform. It runs on the VRcade Arena system, international markets, Fijas, who got his start which worked in partnership with FoxNext and which requires no additional physical infrastruc- in the business in 1986 as a ride operator for FoxNext Destinations on this ambitious setup. ture or props. Darien Lake Theme Park & Camping Resort (Although some presentation details, such as a • in upstate New York, has managed parks in the Fijas scoring mechanism for Xenomorph kills, were In other VRstudios news, the company has U.S., Thailand and the UAE. He also has served on several indus- yet to be added or still being refined, this colum- added VRcade Atom to its wireless, multiplayer try committees — including as chairman of the World Waterpark nist — an admitted Alien franchise fan — found product line. A cost-effective and efficient turn- Association’s Safety Committee. the scenario ideally matched to the VR environ- key solution with a small footprint, it includes ment and exited at once shaken, satisfied and everything an LBE venue of any size needs BDR Design Group of Cincinnati, Ohio, specialists in interna- impressed.) to add room-scale, free-roaming, multiplayer tional leisure and entertainment design since 1983, has welcomed • VR attractions. Built on the VRcade Attraction back industry design veteran Jeff Lichtenberg after a 25-year hia- Kennywood amusement park in West Management Platform, the Atom is being billed tus. Lichtenberg is serving as senior project designer / director in Mifflin, Pa., which launched its 120th season in as the first LBE VR turnkey solution integrat- his return role at the company. late April, has dived into the realm of VR coast- ing head-mounted display technology, wireless Wess Long has been named president of StarGuard Elite — ering. After test runs last fall during Phantom transmission and positional tracking from indus- a comprehensive lifeguard training and aquatic risk prevention Fright Nights, the VR add-on for the park’s lin- try leaders including Hewlett-Packard, HTC organization based in Windermere, Fla., with ear synchronous motor-launched steel coaster and TPCAST. The Atom can be installed as an international clients including water parks and Sky Rocket is ready for prime time. Riders can individual system or in combination with other recreation facilities. For over 20 years, Long choose between the basic ride experience or the Atoms, VRcade Zones or VRcade Arena systems. has worked in numerous capacities throughout VR-enhanced one, which matches the coaster’s • the aquatics industry, driving safety standards sensations with action in a fictional world. Four Allowing as many as half a dozen players and consistently innovating to evolve aquatic riders per 12-seat train can upgrade to the expe- to interact in a cartoon virtual world, the new operations. Long has led at different levels for rience utilizing the Samsung Gear VR headset. kid-friendly (age seven and up) social VR experi- top water parks including those at Walt Disney Long • ence SlimeZone — from the creative teaming World and Palace Entertainment’s California Raging Waters loca- StarVR Corp. announced in March a deploy- of Nickelodeon and Imax Corp. — has opened tions in Sacramento and San Jose. ment of its location-based VR entertainment at IMAX VR Centres worldwide. After players solution at Emaar Entertainment’s elaborately choose their respective avatars, they can blast vir- Longtime SeaWorld San Diego operations employee, educa- staged, two-level, 75,000-square-foot VR Park tual slime, play simple games such as ping pong tion tour guide and show host Tim Roberts has been promoted at The Dubai Mall. Working in tandem with and basketball, create Tilt Brush-style works of art to production supervisor at the park. With the- Starbreeze Studios, the park’s leading content using the 3D paintbrush, and watch Nickelodeon atrical and musical performance experience in partner, StarVR is providing end-to-end VR solu- cartoons such as SpongeBob Squarepants. locations as diverse as Macau, New York City tions with customized hardware, onsite installa- • and Disney California Adventure in Anaheim, tion, operator training and after service for the The LBE / VR wizards at The Void and Roberts pitched the concept for Electric Ocean to SeaWorld park leadership in 2016; subse- majority of Starbreeze’s attractions. StarVR’s their partners at ILMxLAB have brought Star quently, the presentation opened at SeaWorld’s technology includes a premium head-mounted Wars: Secrets of the Empire to the Grand Canal San Diego and Orlando properties and last year Roberts display built for enterprise and professional Shoppes at The Venetian and The Palazzo casi- won IAAPA’s Brass Ring Award for Most Creative Property-wide entertainment use with 5K resolution and a no hotels in Las Vegas. State-of-the-art VR tech- Event. (It debuts at SeaWorld San Antonio this summer.) 210-degree field of view. nology transports guests deep into the Star Wars • universe — where, under the orders of the rebel- As the new games, arcades and attractions manager for Santa AR headset manufacturer Magic Leap has lion, teams of four guests must work together Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Tony Sanders oversees raised another $461 million in funding, large- to infiltrate an Imperial base disguised as stor- a bustling year-round operation encompassing ly from The Public Investment Fund, Saudi mtroopers. The goal is to navigate through the more than 300 video and redemption games, 35 Arabia’s sovereign investment arm. The compa- base to steal critical intelligence, with help from midway games, an 18-hole mini-golf course, a ny has raised a total of at least $2.3 billion from familiar Star Wars characters along the way. laser tag arena, and popular attractions such as various sources. Its much-awaited, five-years-in- • Fright Walk and Laser Maze. His extensive expe- development AR headset, Magic Leap One, still Poland-based VR experience creator Matrix rience in amusements includes positions with is expected to be available to the public this Technology is opening a new attraction at Mall Merlin Entertainments, Frontier City, Alabama Sanders year — although the company has not offered a of America in Bloomington, Minn., this summer. Adventure, SeaWorld Orlando, Dollywood and Six Flags Atlanta. specific release date. To be located on the west end of the mall’s Baynum Painting, Inc., of Newport, Ky., has welcomed • first level, near Nickelodeon Universe, Matrix Melissa Timco as director of the company’s Bandai Namco has lowered the age 5D Technology will feature two adventures: amusement park industry division. She will restriction for its VR Zone Arcade in Shinjuku, Mysterious Underground, a 5D theater experi- oversee all services the company provides to Tokyo, Japan, from 13 to seven for many of its ence wherein thrill-seekers, wearing 5D glasses, parks and other amusement industry clients. VR games. The nine available games include will ride on a trolley in an abandoned mine, With a proven track record of maintaining strong Dragon Ball VR, Evangelion VR and the room- dodging rocks and debris and escaping from industry relationships, Timco has been actively scale Ghost in the Shell: Arise Stealth Hounds. everything lurking beneath the earth’s surface; involved in several major trade associations Not among them is the popular Mario Kart VR and Shark Attack, which combines a motion (including IAAPA, NAARSO and AIMS) and Timco (which remains at 13 and up), and kids between platform effect with a narrated aquarium experi- has more than 10 years of professional experience gained through seven and 13 still require a guardian’s permission ence that explores sea life — and builds to a prior positions with Premier Rides, Inc., and Ralph S. Alberts Co., surprising “fin”-ish. to play. Inc. June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 45 MARKET WATCH BUSINESS WATCH

COMPANY SYMBOL MARKET PRICE HIGH LOW SeaWorld reports strong 2018 first quarter 05/16/18 52-Week 52-Week ORLANDO, Fla. — SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: SEAS), The Blackstone Group BX NYSE 31.29 37.52 29.32 reported on May 8 its financial results for the first quarter of 2018. First quarter 2018 highlights are: Merlin Entertainments Group / MERL LSE 368.10 537.50 317.10 •Total revenue increased by $30.8 million or 16.5% to $217.2 million Legoland from the first quarter of 2017. Cedar Fair, L.P. FUN NYSE 65.40 72.48 59.66 •Attendance increased by 0.4 million or 14.9% to 3.2 million guests from the first quarter of 2017. Comcast Corp./NBCUniversal CMCSA NASDAQ 32.55 44.00 30.43 •Net loss was $62.8 million, compared to a net loss of $61.1 million Media in the first quarter of 2017. Net loss includes approximately $21.5 million of pre-tax expenses associated with separation-related costs and a legal The Walt Disney Company DIS NYSE 105.04 113.19 96.2 settlement accrual in the first quarter of 2018. •Adjusted EBITDA was a loss of $0.1 million, an improvement of Dubai Parks & Resorts DXBE:UH DFM 0.37 0.87 0.37 $30.2 million over the first quarter of 2017 and the highest first quarter Adjusted EBITDA the company has reported since 2013. EPR Properties EPR NYSE 58.39 75.55 51.87

Fuji Kyoko Co., Ltd. 9010 TYO 3185.00 3400.00 2232.00 Cedar Fair reports 2018 first quarter results SANDUSKY, Ohio — Cedar Fair Entertainment Company (NYSE: Haichang Holdings Ltd. HK:2255 SEHK 2.10 2.30 1.55 FUN), announced on May 2 results for the first quarter ending March 25, 2018. For the first quarter ended March 25, 2018, Cedar Fair's net Leofoo Development Co. TW:2705 TSEC 6.66 8.51 6.58 revenues increased to $55 million, compared with $48 million in the first quarter ended March 26, 2017. The solid increase in revenues for the MGM Resorts International MGM NYSE 31.92 38.41 29.53 current-year first quarter was driven by increases in both attendance and Parques Reunidos Servicios average in-park guest per capita spending. The operating loss for the ES:PQR MCE 13.98 17.45 11.69 Centrales S.A. quarter was $76 million, comparable with the operating loss reported in the first quarter of 2017. The increased revenues noted above, were Sansei Technologies, Inc. JP:6357 TYO 1321.00 1539.00 827.00 partially offset by a $6 million increase in operating costs and expenses, which totaled $124 million for the first quarter of 2018. SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. SEAS NYSE 16.69 18.63 10.42 •The company announced that it had finalized a deal to build a 129- room SpringHill Suites hotel adjacent to Carowinds, which should come Six Flags Entertainment Co. SIX NYSE 63.77 70.44 51.25 on line in late 2019. •The company also announced today the declaration of a cash dis- DreamEast Group Ltd. HK:0593 SEHK 11.18 15.88 8.46 tribution of $0.89 per LP unit. The distribution will be paid on June 15, 2018, to unitholders of record as of June 4, 2018. Tivoli A/S DK:TIV CSE 648.00 688.00 540.00

Village Roadshow AU:VRL ASX 2.20 4.21 2.05 JR Automation acquires Setpoint companies HOLLAND, Mich. — JR Automation, a leading provider of intel- STOCK PRICES ABOVE ARE GENERALLY QUOTED IN THE FOREIGN CURRENCY IN WHICH THE COMPANY IS LOCATED ligent automated manufacturing and distribution technology solutions Worldwide Markets: ASX, Australian Securities Exchange; CSE, Copenhagen Stock Exchange; LSE, London Stock Exchange; NYSE, headquartered in Holland, Michigan, announced on April 11 that it has New York Stock Exchange; NASDAQ, National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations; SEHK, Hong Kong Stock acquired Setpoint Systems and Setpoint, Inc. The Setpoint companies Exchange; SZSE, Shenzhen Stock Exchange; TSEC, Taiwan Stock Excange, Corp.; TYO/TSE, Tokyo Stock Exchange —SOURCES: Bloomberg.com; Wall Street Journal are based in Ogden, Utah, and create automation solutions for the e- commerce, amusement and other industries. “We look forward to working closely with the Setpoint business- DIESEL PRICES es, leveraging their tremendous capabilities to further build out our Region As of Change from world-class global industrial automation solutions platform,” JR Au- (U.S.) 05/14/18 1 year ago tomation Chairman and CEO Mike DuBose says. “As part of JR Au- East Coast $3.236 +$0.641 tomation, Setpoint Systems and Setpoint Inc. will become even more Midwest $3.175 +$0.696 effective, bringing together their history of excellence and innovation Gulf Coast $3.012 +$0.630 with JR Automation’s global footprint and capabilities. This is an excit- Mountain $3.316 +$0.690 ing step for JR Automation, the Setpoint businesses, our customers, West Coast $3.482 +$0.754 partners and teams.” “With the backing of JR Automation, Setpoint will be able to meet California $3.929 +$1.027 the needs of our customers even more effectively and increase our team’s CURRENCY ability to lead the industry in developing innovative solutions,” said Mark On 05/17/18 $1 USD = Coy, president & CEO of Setpoint Systems. In a joint statement, Joe Van Den Berghe and Joe Cornwall, co- 0.8464 EURO principals of Setpoint Inc., expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition. “To- 0.7409 GBP (British Pound) day is an exciting day for our team at Setpoint. Our customers, employees 110.23 JPY (Japanese Yen) and vendors will be the long-term beneficiaries of this combination. We 1.0003 CHF (Swiss Franc) have found the JR Automation values, culture and capabilities to be closely 1.3342 AUD (Australian Dollar) aligned with those of Setpoint and we look forward to being part of the 1.2830 CAD (Canadian Dollar) newly broadened JR Automation team.”

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and 46 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 DEAL 2018 trade show unleashes deluge of VR tech on Dubai AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected]

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — As with other industry trade shows during the last 12 months, Dubai Entertainment, Amusement & Leisure Exhibition 2018 (DEAL) — the largest gathering of its type in the Middle East — saw a wave of virtual reality (VR) and active entertainment offerings wash across its exhibition floor. According to show organizer International Expo- Virtual reality technology in a variety of applications, including motion simulator-enhanced ones, was one of the big stars at Consults, LLC, these two DEAL 2018 in April. COURTESY INTERNATIONAL EXPO-CONSULTS, LLC product areas garnered the most visitor interest during owns and manages the ers run, dribble and perform cal / mental challenges and active entertainment attrac- the April 9-11 event at the 7,000-square meter VR Park near-acrobatic moves. The sense of achievement. tions yet to be built.” Dubai World Trade Centre. at The Dubai Mall. “Our park gameplay requires no special “The first key difference Added Sharif Rahman, Overall, this year’s DEAL has been specifically designed skills — making it an ideal from static entertainment [is] CEO of International Expo- attracted nearly 315 exhibitors to cater to the whole family, general-appeal attraction for the adrenaline rush,” said Consults: “People are becom- from more than 40 countries. with rides and experiences that malls, VR arcades and other Bancheva, whose company ing more concerned with lead- VR in a range of seek to blur the lines between high-traffic venues. has 1,500-plus climbing wall ing a healthy lifestyle, and applications for all ages perception and reality in a On the active entertain- and other active entertainment extreme and alternative sport created the most buzz. game-changing attraction.” ment front, vendors promot- projects in more than 50 coun- activities are more attractive “Virtual reality and Kyona, a first-time DEAL ing everything from trampo- tries. “In combination with a than ever. Entertainment is no augmented reality are rapidly exhibitor, highlighted the line parks and climbing walls completely safe environment, longer just about going to the gaining in popularity around world premiere of Koliseum to rope courses and ziplines it creates an incredibly strong movie theater — it’s about the world, with the immersive Soccer VR, which translates were visible throughout the relationship between the visi- doing something engaging technologies … providing foosball into a surprise- exhibition hall. Zlatimira tor and the venue. With end- and exciting.” unique and exhilarating packed gaming experience. A Bancheva, head of sales for less design opportunities, DEAL returns to the experiences,” said Damien complete universe surrounds Bulgaria-based Walltopia, great [return on investment] Dubai World Trade Centre Latham, CEO of exhibitor the virtual stadium, where- pointed out the category’s and optimal space utilization, March 24-26, 2019. Emaar Entertainment, which in a crowd cheers as play- attributes in the form of physi- there is still a vast variety of •dealmiddleeastshow.com Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi Saudi Arabia announces new entertainment partners sets July opening on Yas Island LOS ANGELES, design a one-time production Calif. — Within days of an for live television broadcast ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates — announcement that Six Flags for Saudi National Day, Sept. One of the largest indoor theme parks Entertainment Corp., in col- 23, at the King Fahd Stadium in the world now has an opening date: laboration with Saudi Arabia’s in Riyadh. July 25. Public Investment Fund, was •Feld Entertainment Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, planning to develop a Six — The touring family enter- developed by regional attractions leader Flags-branded park in Riyadh, tainment leader has entered Miral in partnership with Warner Bros. Saudi Arabia’s General into a long-term arrangement Consumer Products and located on Entertainment Authority for producing international amusement-laden Yas Island, features six (GEA) announced new part- events in Saudi Arabia, includ- immersive lands: DC’s Metropolis and nerships with several major ing “Disney on Ice,” “Disney Gotham City, as well as Cartoon Junction, entertainment brands. Live,” “Marvel Stadium Bedrock, Dynamite Gulch and Warner The news was delivered Show” and “Monster Jam.” Bros. Plaza. during a conference in Beverly •National Geographic “The park is another great addi- Hills in early April. GEA is Encounter — The experien- tion to Yas Island’s immersive experi- responsible for developing tial brand’s “Ocean Odyssey” ences and award-winning attractions,” and regulating entertainment walk-through adventure, said His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa in Saudi Arabia. which explores the ocean Al Mubarak, chairman of Miral. “It gives and shopping outlets. The meeting explored from the South Pacific to the us great pride to have partnered with “Delivering experiences and prod- Saudi Arabia’s focus on creat- California coast, will open Warner Bros. Consumer Products to ucts that continue our brands’ storytelling ing a more vibrant society as several new locations in Saudi launch the world’s largest Warner Bros.- and excite and engage fans is our pri- part of Vision 2030, an initia- Arabia (the first in Riyadh branded indoor theme park right here in mary goal,” said Pam Lifford, president, tive that includes significant next year). Abu Dhabi. Warner Bros. Consumer Products. “We investment in themed attrac- •The Marvel Experience The 1.65 million-square-foot park have worked tirelessly with our partners tions, sports and culture. — The touring 360-degree, brings together iconic Warner Bros. char- at Miral to faithfully bring iconic franchises Partnering companies 3D stereoscopic theater and acters and stories under one roof. It fea- such as DC Entertainment, Looney Tunes include: motion ride experience, fea- tures 29 state-of-the-art rides plus inter- and Hanna-Barbera to life.” •Cirque du Soleil — turing Marvel characters, will active family-friendly attractions and live Tickets are available at wbworld.com. Performing in Saudi Arabia arrive in Jeddah and Riyadh entertainment, as well as themed dining —Dean Lamanna for the first time, the live this summer. entertainment brand will —Dean Lamanna June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 47

ThisM spaceuseu is provided courtesym of Amusement P Todayrogress, a corporate partner of the National R Roller Coasterep Museumort & Archives. Belmont Park Entertainment FROM THE ARCHIVES COLLECTION donates Giant Dipper model

The NRCMA recently acquired a large-scale model of the Giant Dipper at Belmont Park, in Mission Beach, Calif. The model The steamer Nantasket pulls away from a wharf with the mag- dates back to 1984, and was used during both fundraising and nificent Giant Coaster in the background, at Paragon Park in planning meetings in efforts to preserve the ride. It sat for Nantasket Beach, Massachusetts. One of coaster designer John several years in the San Diego Railroad Museum and was later 1917: Miller’s finest works for the Philadelphia Toboggan Company, moved to the ticket office/gift shop of the present park. New it opened on May 26, 1917. Nearly 100 feet in height, the immense double out-and-back coast- owners, Belmont Park Entertainment, have graciously donated er was over 4,000 feet in length and for a decade was recognized as the tallest roller coaster the beautiful work to the NRCMA where it will eventually be in the world. After the park closed in 1984, it was purchased at auction and relocated to rural placed on display in the museum’s new addition. NRCMA/ Maryland where it operates today at Six Flags America. The ride celebrates its 100th anni- BELMONT PARK ENTERTAINMENT COLLECTION versary this year, having thrilled millions of riders in two different states. —Richard W. Munch 48 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 49

SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS  Pa. Ride Safety Advisory Board convenes — page 52 / AIMS News & Notes — page 53 Lagoon updates near-century old wooden Roller Coaster AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected] FARMINGTON, Utah — It has been known by many names, but Lagoon’s oldest ride is its vintage wooden roller coaster. Built in 1921, the ride has been called Giant Coaster, Silver Roller Coaster, Dipper and other titles over the past century. Today, the park keeps it simple. Although one of 10 coasters in the park, this wooden clas- sic is known unassumingly as Roller Coaster. Designed by the legend- ary John Miller in the 1920s — less than 10 of his coast- Lagoon’s carpentry and maintenance team that worked on Roller Coaster posed for a photo. Magnetic brakes (right) now ers are still in existence — bring the trains to a smooth stop upon returning to the station. COURTESY LAGOON; AT/TIM BALDWIN the ride stands 62 feet tall and travels 2,500 feet on motor system. Also purchased tions, Lagoon. “We liked the historian. “We have found those delivered to Lagoon,” its journey each circuit. It are two new Millennium safety features on there and some John Miller patent infor- said Tim Viox of Leisure was designated as an ACE Flyer trains by Great Coasters the attractiveness. And it mation as well as our original Labs, that represents GCII. Roller Coaster Landmark in International Inc. was a new train. If we had plans for the roller coaster. We “Some were driven by neces- 2005 by American Coaster “Going to the IAAPA just replaced what we had, it found photos from the ‘20s sity — changes to the design Enthusiasts. show, we looked at the trains would have been the same, through the ‘80s and ‘90s.” of the wheels to accommo- For the 2018 season, the from Great Coasters and did a and we wanted a different The ride reopened this date dimensional differences management at Lagoon has cross comparison. We decided ride experience. We liked the spring with the new enhance- exclusive to Roller Coaster decided to revamp the attrac- that maybe it was time to technology GCII is using on ments and revamped look. — and some were driven by tion. Installed are new mag- make a change,” said Jimmy their wheels.” “There are a couple of client preference such as the netic brakes, drive tires, and Sunlight, director of opera- That change prompted differences between the stan- others. The team returned and dard Millennium Flyers and 4See LAGOON, page 51 decided if things were chang- ing, then they felt it was time to jump in feet first. Returning guests will find the station house totally reworked. Riders now board and exit on the opposite sides as had been established decades before. “Logistically, it opens up that area. By moving the main operator control to the other side, it actually makes room for our new control system,” said Sunlight. “There is a historic dis- play of the ride itself on the outside of the walls in front New trains, track and brakes offer a different experience for of the control system,” said Roller Coaster has been a staple at Lagoon since 1921. It has riders who had enjoyed Roller Coaster before. Adam Leishman, advertising survived wars, a fire and changes of ownership in its near- COURTESY LAGOON director for Lagoon and park century existence. COURTESY LAGOON 50 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 Stronghold introduces MM1018 for roller coaster repair with no realignment CINCINNATI, Ohio — components of roller coasters, of back plate and face plate. It Stronghold Coatings Sys- trains, trams, and other amuse- combines high compressive and tems has recently introduced ment rides, MM1018 allows the shear strength, excellent vibra- MM1018, a polymeric metal equipment to be repaired and tion damping, and long-term material that provides 100 per- re-positioned without having corrosion protection in extreme cent force fit gap compensation to re-align, saving time and service conditions (vibration, for the repair of all types of money. temperature extremes, etc.), and roller coasters and amusement This high-performance re- is resistant to weathering and rides without the need for re- pair product provides 100 per- aging as well as gasoline, oils, alignment. cent volume restoration inside coolants, acids, lye and more. When applied to the ride the gap between bearing and It is easily applied onsite, baseplates, rail pads, and other construction without machining even at height, using casting or injection. This allows signifi- cant repair cost savings versus conventional disassembly/re- build methods. Stronghold Coating Sys- tems is the exclusive North American supplier of Diamant products, a leader in structural repair for critical applications. MM1018 was developed by Diamant and is manufactured in the USA by veteran-owned Stronghold in their centrally located Cincinnati, Ohio facili- ties which includes an exten- sive testing lab. • Stronghold Coating Systems 3495 Mustafa Drive Cincinnati, Ohio, 45241 (937) 704-4020 www.StrongholdOne.com

CHTT Certified Hot Tub Technician online course now available

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) an- nounced on May 1 the avail- ability of its new and im- proved CHTT Certified Hot Tub Technician online self- paced course. Designed for those that service and repair portable hot tubs, the CHTT program cov- ers the essentials of servicing portable and permanently in- stalled hot tubs and spas, and equipment repair and replace- ment. Students can earn their CHTT certification, by taking an online self-paced or live on- site course at a regional event. There are no experience re- quirements; new employees are welcome. Students can purchase the course at APSP.LearnUpon. com. The full course is $549 for members and $699 for non- members or specific modules at $49 for members and $99 for nonmembers. Those that suc- cessfully complete the course will earn 24 continuing educa- tion credits. June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 51 LAGOON go through annual refurbish- Continued from page 49 ment, it now stands partially white and partially natural head rests and restrain moni- wood. Amusement Today asked toring.” if plans were to eventually Viox added, “During the paint it white again or leave it evaluation process, Lagoon all natural. visited Knott’s Berry Farm “I think when it was to observe GCII’s renovation white, it was before the advent of GhostRider. This allowed of good pressure-treated them to witness firsthand the lumber. When Maintenance kind of impact small improve- walked the track each day, it ments to the track combined was sometimes difficult to see with new trains can make.” dry rot if it was painted. They Lagoon has used the would occasionally need to wood composite Trex mate- take an ice pick to stick the rial for the top two layers wood. If it is not painted, we Lagoon purchased new Millennium Flyer trains (left) from Great Coasters International. Many on the track bed whenever have a better chance of seeing different styles of trains have run the rails of Lagoon’s wooden coaster for almost a century. retracking. “We redid the what needs attention,” said AT/TIM BALDWIN; COURTESY LAGOON upper east side [of the coaster] Leishman. this year. We found that Trex As the structure has been and operational expertise that In the revamp of the ride, was the temptation to once material holds up. We replace rebuilt, metal plates connect park possesses is amazing.” aesthetics are not forgotten again give the ride a differ- a section each year — all in- the boards for support and New drive motor tires are during the process. The station ent name. “We’re going to house,” said Sunlight. “When steel has been used for led- also in place. contains an arched roof, and hold on to Roller Coaster for Trex discontinued the size we gers. New, wider steel rails “We work with a company new LED lighting accents the now,” laughed Leishman and needed, we then started using are put in place when track is — Actemium out of Germany structure. “We’ve embraced Sunlight. Leishman did note a material called Lumberock, redone, which now spans the — who does the control sys- that mid-century look of the that the ride’s previous names so the top layers of Roller full width of the track edge- tem as well as install the drive arches,” said Leishman. “We would be listed in the historic Coaster feature a combination to-edge. tires and magnetic braking,” had a fire in 1953. When they display at the station. of these two.” “We have a great car- said Sunlight. “The magnetic rebuilt the station in ’54, the Roller Coaster will cele- “As part of the overall penter crew,” said Sunlight. braking is brand new, so it’s ribs inside that arches were brate its 100th anniversary in scope, GCII provided input “They do research with what going to be a whole new expe- lined with neon. We are bring- 2021. “It’s the illusion you are on some enhancements to the other parks have done and rience as people come back to ing back that look with an riding an antique, but it is as overall track and structure. what we can do to make it the station and it kind of glides LED neon flex tubing. It looks technologically advanced as However, changes to the ride work here.” in. We started working with very much like neon without anything. It’s an old coaster, profile were minimal,” said “Working with the team at Actemium 11 years ago when the maintenance.” but there’s nothing older than Viox. Lagoon was a pleasure,” said we put in Wicked. They’ve With all the enhance- seven years on it,” Leishman As the ride continues to Viox. “The level of technical done a lot of rides with us.” ments, AT asked if there said. 52 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 Pa. Ride Safety Advisory Board convenes quarterly meeting AT: B. Derek Shaw approvals that come before input from all different parts of similar groups exist that offer Phillies--themed climbing [email protected] it. At each meeting, members the business, including carni- input on state-level amuse- wall at Citizen’s Bank Park, Sky Tower HARRISBURG, Pa. — discuss and either accept, vals, amusement parks, fairs, ment ride regulation. Philadelphia; a and Fire Brigade Kennywood Amusement industry repre- conditionally accept, table or the public and professional The spring meeting fea- at Joe Filoramo Park; sentatives, along with com- reject new rides submitted for engineers,” said , tured nine approvals sought Merlin’s Mayhem, an Dutch munity volunteers selected at approval. supervisor of the agriculture by the following companies: S&S roller coaster at Amusement ClimbZone Productions, Wonderland, large, convened at the head- The agriculture depart- department’s Lancaster; a Bureau of Ride & Ride Safety Division LLC S&S Worldwide Sodi quarters of the Pennsylvania ment’s . “Each ; ; new trampoline venue called Measurement Standards USA Spectrum Sports Intl. Vertical Jump Park, LLC, Department of Agriculture uses person has something unique ; ; Erie; Trampoline Unlimited, Inc. in mid-April for the quarter- the resulting input to deter- to contribute and gives us a and Sodi RTX Go Kart vehicles Zamperla. Steel City Indoor ly Pennsylvania Ride Safety mine its course of action in the very well-rounded review of and for use at Karting Advisory Board meeting. approval process for a particu- everything,” The subject attractions , Monroeville. The board serves as a rec- lar ride or attraction. The advisory board is included three climbing walls “We are streamlining the Sky Zone, ommending body for new ride “The advisory board gives unusual in that few if any other at Levittown; a [approval] process to make it a little easier for everyone involved,” Filoramo said. “A common problem is that man- ufacturers don’t always pro- SAFETY MARKET PLACE vide all the information before they build equipment — leav- ing owners at a hardship as they delay openings due to the approval process.” Two parks made presen- tations under new business, including Idlewild Park & Soak Zone in Ligonier for the new Philadelphia Toboggan Coaster train it installed on Rollo Coaster. The park opted to replace the existing rolling stock rather than modifying it. Idlewild also made necessary repairs on the entire coaster structure and fixed a transition where a previous accident took AUXEL SRL ― ITALY – TEL +39 0444.653211 – WWW.AUXELRIDES.COM place. “They’ve done everything to the ride we recommended Proudly working with the following and more,” Filoramo said of the park’s efforts. “The coaster American-made companies: has been brought up to today’s standards.” •Premier Rides Staff from Knoebels •Sally Dark Rides Amusement Resort in Elysburg also were on hand to •Swannee River Railroad Co. discuss their off-season work on Twister, a wooden roller •Owen Trailers coaster. The 90-foot-tall turn •Philadelphia at the top of the lift has been Toboggan secured by guy wires and con- Coasters, Inc. crete anchors — a standard practice in the past. During the Facebook.com/IRMRides off-season, the park installed a 60-foot internal batter support system using lumber instead of cables. While no changes have been made to the superstruc- ture or trains, the latter modifi- cation may require applicabil- ity to different ride standards than when it was built in 1999. At the start of the meet- ing, Fred Strathmeyer, deputy secretary of agriculture, talked about the spotted lanternfly — an inch-long insect native to Southeast Asia with black, red and white coloring. It is a threat to agriculture in the state and, as a result, 13 counties in southeastern Pennsylvania are under quarantine measures. Strathmeyer asked meet- ing attendees to report any Keep our amusement park industry strong! sightings of the pest. Buy products and services from these suppliers. •agriculture.pa.gov June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 53

Amusement Industry Manufacturers 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] Entry deadline nears for 2018 AIMS International Safety Award It’s time to recognize the industry’s A big thanks to the people A complete list of all AIMS Certified Indi- leaders in safety! behind the scenes viduals can be found on our website at www. The AIMS International Safety Award is As the amusement industry enters peak sea- aimsintl.org. presented annually to the individual or organi- son, the media plays up the bells and whistles zation that demonstrates leadership, innovation, that make our industry so great: all the exciting The mission of AIMS International is to im- and foresight in improving safety in the amuse- new rides and attractions. prove amusement industry safety through ment industry. With safety as the industry’s No. 1 It’s also important to recognize the thou- leadership in education concern for amusement industry guests and em- sands of individuals who work in maintenance, The annual AIMS Safety Seminar is recog- ployees worldwide, efforts in improving safety operations, ride inspection and other areas of nized by major parks and attractions as the world- are shown in many forms: the design and imple- safety at parks and attractions. They work round wide leader for safety training and education. mentation of new products and technology, the the clock to plan and prepare for the safety and Each year more than 450 students participate in development of safety education programs and enjoyment of guests and other employees. A active classroom and hands on learning resulting training, and by exemplary leadership in influ- great day for these individuals is one in which in 40 hours of continuing education credits and encing others. there is no news and no media coverage. Their AIMS certification testing. With more than 200 The 2018 AIMS International Safety Award accomplishments result in an accident that class hours taught by industry experts, students will be presented September 8 during Amuse- doesn’t happen because someone paid atten- are encouraged to select a class schedule that ment Today's annual Golden Ticket Awards tion. We all owe them a great debt of gratitude best suits their needs and the requirements of hosted by Silver Dollar City in Branson, Mo. and appreciation! their employers. In addition to onsite learning, Who will follow the 2016 inaugural recipi- Many of these individuals have demonstrated continuing education and certification testing, ent, Harold Hudson followed by Har Kupers in their skills and knowledge as AIMS Certification students return home with valuable safety infor- 2017? Send your nomination today! The dead- holders and AIMS Safety Seminar students. The mation to share with colleagues and co-workers. line for nominations is Friday, July 6, 2018. AIMS Certification Program is internationally rec- The next AIMS Safety Seminar will be held Janu- Nomination forms and more information can ognized for accreditation of knowledge and expe- ary 13-18, 2019 in Galveston, Texas. For more be found at www.aimsintl.org. rience in Ride Inspection, Maintenance Technician, information, visit www.aimsintl.org. Operations Technician, and Aquatics Operations.

Space for this AIMS page is provided courtesy of Amusement Today as a corporate partner of AIMS Intl. Content is provided by AT & AIMS. 54 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018 LJM continues inspections CALENDAR 2018 Asian Attractions Expo, June 6-8 Conference: June 5-8 • Trade Show: June 6-8 Hong Kong, China • www.iaapa.org • PAPA Summer Meeting, July 16-17 Dutch Wonderland, Lancaster, Pa. www.paamusementparks.com • NEAAPA 105th Anniversary Summer Meeting, July 24 Funtown Splashtown USA, Saco, Maine www.neaapa.com or email: [email protected] • Euro Attractions Expo, Sept. 23-27 Conference: Sept. 23-27 • Trade Show: Sept. 25-27 Amsterdam, Netherlands • www.iaapa.org • IAAPA Operators Fourm 2018, Oct. 2-4 Mike Nicol, LJM & Associates, Inc., is seen here performing the QSI (Qualified Safety In- Six Flags The Great Escape & Splashwater Kingdom spector) Annual Inspection on a waterslide at the Raging Waters water park in the Los An- Lake George, N.Y. geles area. During the QSI, the inspector will look for wear/spider cracks in the fiberglass Contact: Liderby Gladden, Manager and gel-coating; check all the stairways, structural items, towers, columns and footings and Global Education IAAPA check all the operational systems of the slide. COURTESY LEWIS MERZ/LJM & ASSOCIATES, INC. www.iaapa.org or email: [email protected] • World Waterpark Assn., Oct. 23-26 Trade Show: Oct. 24 & 25 Matt Heller releases All Clear! book Las Vegas, Nev. • (913) 599-0300 • www.waterparks.org • AT: Jeffrey Seifert for individuals who are in a leadership position and Parks and Carnivals Education (PACE) [email protected] looking to improve their skills. Amusement Ride Safety Seminar A boss will tell you what to do. A leader will The chapters in this section discuss developing Oct. 29-Nov. 1, York, Pa. show you how and why to do it. Anyone can be a the traits that every good leader should have: moral- (Classroom training location TBA boss, but it takes a dedicated and properly trained ity, integrity, and knowledge of one's self; along with Hands-on training at Majestic Midways person to become a leader. Providing the skills and balancing temper and emotions and providing posi- Winter Quarters, Dover, Pa.) the knowledge to become a good leader is what au- tive and negative feedback. Using these skills, a good www.paceseminar.com/index.html thor Matt Heller hopes to accomplish with his new leader can build trust, respect and relationships. • book All Clear! A Practical Guide for First Time Listening is another important skill of a good Pennsylvania Amusement Ride Safety Seminar Leaders and the People Who Support Them. leader. Heller mentions a quote from the late Al We- Nov. 6-8, Red Lion Hotel, Harrisburg, Pa. Like many in the amusement industry, Heller ber Jr. of Apex Parks Group, who said, "In order to Joe Filoramo, (717) 215-4316 started out with a simple summer job at keep the best people in your organiza- Phil Slaggert, (561) 758-3266 an amusement park while attending col- tion, you have to involve them. You don't www.paridesafety.com lege. That was nearly 30 years ago, and have to agree, but you do have to involve • Heller discovered he had a passion for them." IAAPA Attractions Expo, Nov. 12-16 the industry that eventually led him to Employees need to be heard. If they Conference: Nov. 12-16 • Trade Show: Nov. 13-16 becoming a leadership trainer, executive feel that their input is not wanted or not Orlando, Fla. • (703) 836-4800 •www.iaapa.org coach and human resources consultant valued then loyalty will suffer. A good • for the attractions industry. leader will know when and how to en- IAFE Annual Convention, Nov. 25-28 Heller effectively utilizes his knowl- courage team members to speak up and San Antonio, Texas edge and past experience, to provide a provide input, but also let them know (417) 862-5771 • iafeconvention.com practical, useful guidebook for leaders. when it is not appropriate to question The book should prove helpful for something. all supervisors, whether it's a new per- Questions and answers also play 2019 AIMS International 2019 Safety Seminar son tackling the job for their first time, a pivotal role. Employees are apt do a Jan. 13-18, 2019 or an old hat who has been doing things the same better a job if they understand why they are doing San Luis Resort and Hilton Hotel way forever. something a certain way, instead of just being told The book is divided into three sections and 16 this is the way you are to do it. At the same time, if an (Classes at Galveston Convention Center) Galveston, Texas • (714) 425-5747 chapters. The first section, titled "In the Station," employee has a suggestion for improving a method, www.aimsinlt.org devotes four chapters to providing information for rather than falling into the "It's always been done this • those who are about to transition into a leadership way" trap, then those suggestions need to be heard. NAARSO 2019 Safety Fourm role. The final section of the book "Arms -Up! Man Dates TBA • Myrtle Beach, S.C. In the first chapter, Heller shares a story about a agement Tools for Developing New Leaders," dis- Hotel to be announced newly promoted supervisor who asked who he was cusses the methods for recognizing and developing supposed to call when someone calls him on the ra- new leaders. The leadership an organization has in Hands on ride training at Broadway at the Beach (813) 661-2779 • www.naarso.com dio. After being advised that as the supervisor, there place today, isn't going to be there forever, and a con- • is no one else, he needed to solve the problem, the stant flow of new leaders needs to be developed. IISF Trade Show realization that the buck stopped with him slowly Throughout the book Heller refers to his own February 5-8, 2019 washed over his face. It was then that Heller realized personal experiences to provide examples. Not all Riverview, Fla. • (813) 677-9377 this person had likely not been properly trained nor of them are good, and without mentioning names, www.gibtownshowmensclub.com was he prepared for his new role. Heller will often tell the tale of learning what not to • Heller also tackles the question of whether or do from inflexible managers and bad bosses, who re- AAMA/AMOA Amusement Expo 2019 not leaders are born or made. His take — it can be ally didn't have what it takes. Conference: March 26 • Trade Show: March 27 & 28 either. Certain people through their upbringing, nur- All clear is the signal given by a ride operator Las Vegas Convention Center, (Hall TBA) turing and learned experiences, might be considered when a ride is ready to dispatch. This book is intend- Las Vegas, Nev. • (708) 226-1300 natural born leaders. But there are plenty of others ed to prepare leaders to give the all clear before tak- www.amusementexpo.org who simply need to learn the skills and acquire the ing on their new roles. • knowledge to be made a leader. All Clear! retails for $17.95 and is available from The second part of the book "On the Lift Hill —­ online booksellers such as Amazon.com or directly Have a Calender listing you want to share? Tools and Resources for Those Moving Up" is geared from Heller's website, performanceoptimist.com. Email it to: [email protected] June 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 55 THIS JUST IN Legoland Florida Resort to add new themed area WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — Legoland Florida Resort has CLASSIFIEDS revealed what will become its largest investment since the theme park opened in 2011. A new attractions area called The Lego Movie World will pre- AUCTION FOR SALE miere next spring. The announcement follows the success of the blockbuster film Moser Flipping Action Arm P/M.....$99,000 The Lego Movie, its upcoming sequel and the popularity of the film’s characters within the children’s theme park. Chance Century Wheel P/M.....$199,000 Working closely with Warner Bros. Entertainment and Lego Chance Pharoahs Fury T/M..... $550,000 System A/S, the resort plans to realize The Lego Movie World in Wisdom Tornado T/M...... $139,000 a manner that places guests right in the middle of Bricksburg, the city where Emmet lives in The Lego Movie. Tivoli Orbiter T/M...... $399,000 The new section represents the destination’s continuing com- 2010 ARM Vertigo T/M...... 400,000 mitment to providing state-of-the-art experiences specifically ARM Happy Viking T/M...... $89,000 designed to create awesome memories for kids ages two to 12. “The sights and sounds will be fully immersive, bringing The Kolinski Slide T/M...... $39,000 Lego Movie franchise to life in a way that only a Legoland Park Zamperla Tea Cup T/M...... $49,000 could,” said Rex Jackson, resort general manager. “We know kids 2016 KMG Freak Out T/M.... $725,000 come from all over the world to meet the stars of The Lego Movie Zamperla Power Surge T/M.....$299,000 and we can’t wait to see their faces light up as they interact within the imaginative world of Bricksburg.” Zamperla Shocker T/M...... $250,000 The Lego Movie World will feature three new rides, character Expo Wheel T/M...... $299,000 meet and greets, and a giant themed playscape. The existing inter- active boat ride, The Quest for Chi, will be completely transformed and will offer guests a new experience when it reopens as a key Call Len or John attraction in the new area in 2019. The current boat ride attraction OPPORTUNITY (908) 526-8009 closes May 29. FAX: (908) 526-4535 ProParks now operating Hawaiian Falls water parks www.Rides4U.com ORLANDO, Fla. — ProParks Management Co. is the new operator for the five Hawaiian Falls Waterparks in North Texas. ProParks is a privately held attractions company that acquires, develops and manages waterparks, family entertainment cen- ters and similar assets. The company is led by a team of experi- enced attractions and water park professionals focused on growing and improving the overall park experience. “The addition of the Hawaiian Falls waterparks confirms our CLASSIFIED ADS commitment to building a portfolio of attractions where families can beat the heat and make memories together,” said Curt Caffey, Ride Maintenance Management $20 minimum, president of ProParks Water Holdings. “We are looking forward to further connecting these parks to the communities they were built Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay, a regional theme up to 30 words to serve, starting with the [current] operating season.” park in Louisville, Kentucky with 38 rides (including 5 Hawaiian Falls offers more than 100 water attractions located roller coasters) and 19 water park attractions, is seeking a ($1 per additional in The Colony, Roanoke, Garland, Mansfield and Waco, Texas. Director for our Technical Services Department. word) ProParks also owns and operates other attractions / entertainment Qualifications include: assets Arizona, California, North Carolina and elsewhere in Texas. Ability to troubleshoot and repair various mechanical systems, ● including pneumatic and hydraulic systems as well as gearboxes, DISPLAY AD: $50 per power transmission components, conveyor systems, and pumps. Bob’s Space Racers, Knowledge of industry standards and procedures. ● column inch At least 10 years of experience as a maintenance tech. in the amusement ● Emiliana Luna Park ink deal industry. (a 1-point rule will Ability to create and maintain accurate records of work performed. ● Ability to work nights, weekends and holiday periods. appear around ad) ● Ability to pass drug screening. ● Responsibilities include: Due the 10th of the Supervisor a staff of 30, including ride maintenance personnel, ● electricians, plumbers, and carpenters. month prior to Identify and order required parts/materials in a timely manner to ● complete maintenance tasks. issue date Monitor and direct ride maintenance activities (installation, repair, and ● inspection). Ensure compliance with applicable codes, standards, requirements ● and best practices. Manage staff in a professional, respectful and effective manner. ● Evaluate staff and issue correctives as necessary. Recruit, interview, hire, and train staff per company policies ● Maintain accurate, organized, and up-to date maintenance records. ● Analyze department budget versus actual performance and adjust Emiliana Luna Park, an Italian manufacturer known for ● accordingly. more than half a century for its high-quality amusement Implement safety, security, and loss prevention policies to promote ● rides and games, has tapped Bob's Space Racers for ride safety and maximize ride availability. distribution of its popular Fried Frogs game in the Benefits include: U.S., Mexico and Canada. The deal includes parts and Excellent pay (commensurate with industry experience). ● service as well as sales. Jack Cook, president of Bob’s Paid health, dental, and vision insurance. ● Paid vacation, personal time off, and sick leave. Space Racers, is shown finalizing the arrangement with ● Extended holiday break. Susanna Demaria, sales manager for Emiliana Luna Park, ● Call Sammy at the 2018 Dubai Entertainment, Amusement & Leisure Exhibition, held in the UAE April 9-11. Qualified candidates send resume to: (817) 460-7220 COURTESY BOB’S SPACE RACERS [email protected] 56 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2018