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Vol. 16 • Issue 12 MARCH 2013 Walt Disney World continues attraction rollout Epcot’s revamped Test Track lives up to all the hype, Downtown Disney rolls strike with now tells Chevrolet’s vehicle design story opening of Splitsville Luxury Lanes STORY: Scott Rutherford STORY: Scott Rutherford at Downtown Disney at Walt [email protected] [email protected] Disney World Resort. ORLANDO, Fla. — While ORLANDO, Fla. — Splitsville is the brand’s much of the attention and Downtown Disney works dili- only two-level location with accolades have been showered gently to feature something for 30 lanes and more than 50,000 on the latest expansion phase virtually every visitor’s taste. square feet of entertainment of New Fantasyland at the The popular entertainment space — twice the size of any Magic Kingdom, there’s plen- district’s latest offering comes other Splitsville — featuring ty more to discover over at in the form of boutique bowl- billiards, live entertainment, Epcot’s Future World where ing, which can now be found an outdoor balcony bar with a major re-imagining of the at the aptly named Splitsville sweeping views along with park’s Test Track has also been Luxury Lanes. upscale dining options that unveiled. Opened this past cater to almost every palate. Closed since April 2012 December at Downtown From the moment you step for the makeover, the ride has Disney’s West Side between into Splitsville, you realize since reopened as Test Track DisneyQuest and the AMC 24 right away that this place is Presented by Chevrolet. The cinema, the upscale, retro-style light years apart from a typical proven slotcar-style ride sys- “Test Track Presented by Chevrolet” is a major re-imagining bowling venue is the larg- bowling alley. tem and track layout remain of the park’s Test Track attraction that has operated at est in the Splitsville brand’s “Splitsville is a perfect fit the same, but the popular Epcot’s Future World since 1999. fleet and joins other family- for Downtown Disney,” said 4See TEST TRACK, page 4 COURTESY EPCOT friendly entertainment venues 4See SPLITSVILLE, page 4 2013 Amusement Expo preparations well underway STORY: Pam Sherborne attendees as well as networking and Omega Amusements & Sales Inc., East [email protected] social opportunities. Brunswick, N.J., presenter and panelist; LAS VEGAS, Nev. — John Schultz, Hours for the tradeshow this year and Jim Chapman, Coast to Coast En- president, American Amusement Ma- are 12 noon-6 p.m., Wed., March 20; 10 tertainment, presenter and panelist. chine Association (AAMA), expects a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday, March 21; and 9 Discussion topics in this session attendance at this year’s Amusement a.m.-1 p.m., Friday, March 22. will include growth opportunities for Expo to be up at least 10 percent over Educational seminars are held on operators in self-redemption, chang- the 2012 event. the mornings of March 20-21. ing trends, hottest merchandising tech- This year’s Expo is set for March 20- A preliminary seminar schedule niques, best approaches for running 22, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. released in February showed attendees high value prize games, and key strate- The AAMA co-sponsors Amuse- may select one of three sessions run- gies for long-term sustainability. ment Expo with the Amusement and ning from 8-9 a.m., Wednesday, March The second choice is titled “What Music Operators Association (AMOA) 20. You need to Know About ATMS,” with and co-locates with the National Bulk and entertainment industry members One is titled “Self-Redemption: Ob- Michael Guthrie, Cypress Advantage, Vendor Association (NBVA), which has together with industry manufacturers taining Your Greatest Returns,” with Spokane, Wash.; moderator and pan- its exhibitors grouped together within and suppliers. Chip O’Hara, Midwest Coin Concepts, elist; and Brandon Hedley, Rich and the same hall. Amusement Expo also offers a va- Waite Park, Minn., moderator and pan- Junnies Coin, Inc., Dubuque, Iowa, and Its purpose is to bring the coin-op riety of educational opportunities for elist; Joe Camarota, partner, Alpha- 4See EXPO, page 5

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US POSTAGE US PRSRT STD PRSRT 2 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 NEWSTALK OPINIONS CARTOON LETTERS AT CONTACTS EDITORIAL: Gary Slade, [email protected] CARTOON: Bubba Flint Tidbits The amusement industry recently lost two great individuals who will be missed. June Hardin founded Wapello. She was one of the kindest and most caring persons I ever had the pleasure of meeting. She loved her family, the business and her work Slade with AIMS, to promote safety in our industry. She was always available for a good talk. I know, I had many with her during past Gibtown shows, something I missed during this year’s show. Cliff Hammond was one of our industry’s “old school” legends. As a small park owner, he grew his New Mexico kiddieland park into the bigger Uncle Cliff’s. I remember my dad taking me to Uncle Cliff’s during my youth. Like the thousands who attended each year, both my dad and I had a wonderful time, and that’s exactly what Uncle Cliff wanted — for his guests to have a good time. • We extend a thank you to Jim Reid-Anderson and Six Flags for the efforts they are making to paint and freshen up their properties. From Magic Mountain to Hurricane EDITORIAL: Scott Rutherford, [email protected] Harbor, reports are coming in on the smallest of jobs Rye Playland’s future in limbo that will surely get the guests attention. We know the Six Flags appearance had slipped during the previous man- Let’s get right to it: New park’s best interests in mind. Myself and plenty agement teams and the years leading up to bankruptcy. York’s celebrated Playland Park of others remain unconvinced. If that plan is Now with a solid business plan in place, it’s good to see (aka Rye Playland) is teetering approved and their amusement “zone” eventu- on the edge of extinction. That ally fails, the rides will be removed. Playland will money being spent in the areas that have been over- might sound alarmist but all it cease to be a traditional amusement park. End of looked for far too many years. takes is a little reading between story. • the lines. While there are some Bottom line: People don’t come to an amuse- Speaking of paint, two Texas traditional parks did just Rutherford who want to save Playland and ment park for soccer. The only games they DO that, invested in paint for 2013. allow it to remain an amusement want to play are those on the midway. They visit Along with their newly relocated bumper car build- park, there are others planning to transform it an amusement park to escape the norm, to have ing, Wonderland Park in Amarillo painted their historic into something its original architects would have fun in ways unavailable elsewhere. They come to never imagined or approved. An article I wrote savor the sights, sounds and those unmistakable Miler mouse coaster, giving it a blue color this time. for AT’s Feb. issue on the subject was distributed scents inherent only to a real amusement park. Joyland Park in Lubbock did a complete overhaul and at a recent meeting of the Westchester County They come to ride and to be thrilled, not to sit painting of both their log flume and Galaxi coaster. Board of Legislators where Playland’s fate was on the grass or gaze at the sea. This really isn’t Congrats to both for keeping the focus on clean fam- under review. For that piece, I did get some that difficult of a concept to understand. The ily fun. negative criticism from the other side –– I was Board must choose someone skilled and familiar —Gary Slade accused of writing with bias. with amusement park operations. They need to Well, of course I’m biased! I live and breathe look no further than Central Amusements Int’l this industry. I want nothing more than for or Standard Amusements. These competent Gary Slade is the founder and publisher of Amusement Playland to survive fully intact. But the way to entities have decades of proven hands-on expe- Today. His love for amusement parks began at age six remedy this situation is NOT to remove rides, rience in these matters, and they honestly care when he first visited Pontchartrain Beach Amusement provide “open green spaces” and convert a large about returning this grand old park to its former Park and Six Flags Over Texas. His long newspaper career portion of the parking area into soccer fields. glory. helped lead to the launch of AT in 1997. Sustainable Playland claims to have the Playland’s clock is ticking. Choose wisely.

AMUSEMENT TODAY STAFF Gary Slade, Founder Tim Baldwin Sammy Piccola Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Editorial Accounting / Circulation (817) 460-7220 [email protected] (817) 460-7220 [email protected] [email protected] Deliveries Member of: Pam Sherborne 2012 E. Randol Mill Rd., Suite 203 IAAPA, AIMS International, PAPA, Stacey Childress / Childress Media Editorial Sue Nichols Arlington, Texas 76011 NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, WWA, TTIA, Web & Graphic Design [email protected] Advertising NAARSO and IISF [email protected] (615) 662-0252 Subscription rates are: 1 year (14 issues) $75 in the USA; $100 elsewhere; 2 years (28 issues) $140/$180; Scott Rutherford [email protected] 3 years (42 issues) $200/$250. Send check or money order (U.S. funds only, drawn on a U.S. bank) to John Robinson / W.H.R. Inc. Amusement Today, P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005-5427. Your cancelled check is your receipt. Editorial Please allow up to six weeks for your subscription request to be processed and the first issue mailed. Daily E-mail Newsletter [email protected] Bubba Flint [email protected] Cartoonist Amusement Today is an independent newspaper, published monthly by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. Jeffrey L. Seifert [email protected] Box 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. Presort Standard Postage (Permit No. 2069) pre-paid at Fort Worth, Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper and its related websites are copyrighted and trademarked Editorial / Special Projects by Amusement Today 2013, with all rights reserved. [email protected] POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Amusement Today, P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas Contributors: Kelly Bernish, Andrew Mellor, B. Derek Shaw, Richard Munch, Marlon Scott, Janice Witherow, WHR Inc. 76005-5427. March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3 THIS MONTH IN HISTORY MINUTE •1895: In the March 24 edition of Presented by the Wheeling Register newspaper, Mozart Park management announced improvements that were 2 DRILL to be made to the small park on COMPILED: Janice Witherow the outskirts of Wheeling, in West Virginia. Management was most Matt Eckert, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari proud of their purchase of a new Matt Eckert is enjoying roller coaster to be erected north diving right into his new of the dancing pavilion. Of note role as president and CEO was that the ride would be simi- of Holiday World & Splash- lar to the ride at a park in Toledo, www.RollerCoasterMuseum.org in’ Safari … a position Ohio. he accepted just over a month ago. For Matt, it is •1907: Santa Cruz Beach Board- a homecoming of sorts, as walk, Santa Cruz, California, continued to rebuild the seaside park after he first served as the park’s a June 22, 1906 fire damaged most of the buildings. In mid-March management announced that the park would be even “larger & grander, controller in 2000 and with a new casino and a new Figure 8 roller coaster.” The park would later as one of its general also build a Scenic Railway in 1908, then the Giant Dipper in 1924, managers before leaving which is expected to thrill riders during its 90th year of operation this the industry in 2012 for a spring! short time. Matt will work closely with the board of •1912: Newspaper advertisements in late March detailed the sale of directors for Holiday World the L.A. Thompson Scenic Railway at Wonderland Park, Minneapolis, & Splashin’ Safari to keep Matt Eckert played “The Candy Man” in Charlie and the Minnesota. With five trains, seating 20 passengers each, the unit was to this popular family theme Chocolate Factory in community theater in 2010. His two be sold within 30 days. Meanwhile the 20-acre park, opened in 1905, park in Santa Claus, Ind., daughters, Abby and Claire, were Oompah Loompahs. was to be demolished, to make way for new residential lots. One struc- flourishing. Matt values COURTESY MATT ECKERT ture from the park still stands today, an apartment building that at one time with his family, speaks time housed the premature infant exhibit. French and loves catching re-runs of The Brady Bunch! My all-time favorite Barry Manilow song is … •1920: John Miller and Harry Baker began a strong marketing cam- Sorry, I am not a Manilow fan. I do, however, paign in March, for their new wheel assemblies that included a third set Title know several songs by Jason Mraz who is one of of wheels under the track (today known as underfriction wheels). The President/CEO. my favorites. 1920 model cars would be the first cars to incorporate these additional wheels, making the roller coaster safer and allowing designers to pro- Number of years in the Choose one: African safari or Australian vide longer and steeper drops. Miller and Baker would enjoy a very suc- industry outback cessful year, with new rides constructed in Baltimore, Rochester, Buffalo, Detroit, Pittsburgh, Youngstown, Spokane, Venice (Calif.), Des Moines, 13 years. Australian outback. Springfield (Ma.), Norfolk and Buckroe Beach (Va.).

Best thing about the industry When I say baseball, you say … That we manufacture FUN. •1923: Paragon Park, Nantasket Beach, Massachusetts, had a major Actually, boring. I am more of a college basket- fire on the evening of March 28. Flames, driven by high winds, de- ball fan! Favorite amusement ride stroyed several park structures. A local resident was believed by au- thorities to have started the fire which swept from the park property to The Voyage (at Holiday Eckert Spring is almost here! My favorite springtime World), of course. Straits Pond, wiping out 50 buildings, although most of the rides were activity is … saved. It was believed the fire began in a paint shop at the rear of the Going to my daughters’ soccer games. If I wasn’t working in the amusement industry, park. In a few moments, part of the park, including the Palm Garden, was in flames. The fire was seen for miles, glowing in the night sky, and I would be … You are on an elevator. Do you look straight was finally put out when regional fire brigades, handicapped by the cold An accountant. This is what my academic ahead or make small-talk? weather, arrived. Damage was estimated at $750,000. In 1916 Paragon background is in, and I am a certified public Straight ahead. I am very weird about eleva- Park had another devastating fire, although the park reopened the fol- accountant. tors and riding on airplanes. I am usually very lowing May, this time with the tallest roller coaster in the world, the outgoing, but for some odd reason, not on Giant Coaster. Biggest challenge facing our industry elevators or planes. Continually finding new ways to delight and •1940: Owners of Neptune Beach Park, in Alameda, California, held entertain our guests. It’s Friday night at 7 p.m. Where can we typi- a final auction at the popular amusement park, closed since the end cally find you? of the 1939 season, While many bid on small items, as well as some The thing I like most about amusement/water With my family, out and about. of the remaining rides and attractions, others stopped by during the park season is … late March auction to say goodbye to the park on the bay. Ownership The warm weather! The last time I went in the ocean was … expected that everything would be sold to the highest bidder, but the Spring Break last year. two large roller coasters did not move, and except for some small items, Favorite breakfast food the park was demolished. Opened in 1917, it competed with nearby Frosted Flakes cereal. My favorite pizza topping is … Idora Park in Oakland for a dozen years with the largest swimming pool Pepperoni. in northern California. The most memorable class I have ever taken —Compiled by Richard Munch, NRCMA and Jeffrey Seifert, AT would have to be … Are you a little bit country or a little bit rock History of World War II. ‘n’ roll? A little bit of both! TM When I need advice, I turn to … P.O. Box 5427 5-time Award Winner My parents. Arlington, Texas 76005-5427 One week ago today, I was … (817) 460-7220 Starting my second week as president of Holi- Fax (817) 265-NEWS (6397) If I had to be named after one of the Seven day World & Splashin’ Safari. Dwarfs it would be … Find us on Facebook Happy. The first thing I do when I get home from facebook.com/amusementtoday work is … When dipping tortilla chips, do you prefer Hug my kids. salsa, cheese or guacamole? Follow us on Twitter Guacamole – fresh, not canned! Coolest museum twitter.com/amusementtoday The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. My latest big bargain was … An upcoming beach vacation. Subscribe to our YouTube channel Get a free QR Code scanner for your phone youtube.com/amusementtoday by visting www.mobiletag.com. 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 together to bring guests an ly design their own custom TEST TRACK immersive experience in the vehicle concepts. A word of Continued from page 1 design process of the vehicles advice: if guests opt to utilize attraction now features a new they see on the road today and Disney’s Fast Pass system of story, queue and new show will see in the future.” the Test Track’s single rider scenes with amazingly vibrant As part of the refurbish- line, you are not offered the graphics. ment, the attraction now fea- chance to create your own Disney and General Motors tures a sleek new “Chevrolet vehicle. Instead, to speed up renewed their long-term busi- Design Center at Epcot” that the process, you are offered ness relationship with a new fully integrates visitors into the pre-designed models from multi-year corporate alliance. world of automotive design. which to choose. As part of the new alliance, Featuring high-energy music, Once the design phase is GM was fully involved with colorful eye-popping graphics, complete, the actual ride por- Walt Disney Imagineering theatrical lighting and a collection of the attraction begins in the development of the tion of Chevrolet concept cars as guests are loaded into indi- new Test Track experience. and model vehicles, guests can vidual six-seat SimCar ride The refurbished Test Track become automotive designers vehicles where they get to will be presented by one of Featuring high-energy music, colorful graphics, theatrical — and have a glimpse into the experience their design on the GM’s most famous brands, lighting and a collection of Chevrolet concept cars and future of personal transporta- exhilarating Test Track road- Chevrolet. As Chevrolet marks model vehicles, guests on the revamped Test Track can tion during the experience. way. its 100th anniversary, the new become automotive designers. Offering a glimpse into the “As storytellers, to be able After performance testing alliance agreement enables future of personal transportation, the experience is high- to tell Chevrolet’s design story is finished, guests are directed General Motors to tell its story lighted by a high-speed spin around the slot-car inspired was fun for our Imagineers,” into a post-show area where in new and exciting ways to Test Track itself. said Eric Jacobson, senior they learn how well their COURTESY EPCOT millions of guests from around vice president of Walt Disney vehicle did. They will also be the world and continue as the collaboration between two of tive ways.” Imagineering. “Chevrolet afforded the opportunity to official vehicle sponsor of Walt the most recognized brands in “As a global brand, designers come from the same check out the latest Chevrolet Disney World Resort. the world, a relationship that Chevrolet is looking forward creative roots as Imagineers. vehicles in a new classy show- “We are excited to renew spans over 30 years. The re- to welcoming guests from Test Track presented by room. our long-term alliance with imagined Test Track Presented around the world to the re- Chevrolet will become, for GM became involved with General Motors,” said George by Chevrolet continues our imagined Test Track,” said Joel Epcot guests, an exciting part Disney in the 1970s and was Aguel, senior vice president, shared goal of providing Ewanick, global chief market- of their visit to Walt Disney the first partner for Epcot, corporate alliances for the unique and innovative expe- ing officer for General Motors. World Resort.” opening its World of Motion Walt Disney Company. “This riences that engage Disney “The best of Disney and the Guests use interactive there in 1982. The original Test unique agreement extends guests in exciting and interac- best of Chevrolet will come workstations to realistical- Track opened in 1999.

everyone and the natural gaps to take advantage of priority SPLITSVILLE of time between frames allows bowling, to receive access to Continued from page 1 families, friends or work mates the next available lane upon Keith Bradford, vice president to engage in conversation, check-in, the rates range of Downtown Disney. “From grab some sushi or encourage between $8 to $125 per person a new twist on a beloved sport guests on the next lane.” for one hour of bowling. The to an impressive menu you’d Splitsville’s dining wait time will vary based on never expect to find in a bowl- options are distinctly different volume and there are a num- ing facility, Splitsville offers a than the usual fare one might ber of restrictions that may great experience that comple- expect. Under the direction apply for the duration of pri- ments our other unique offer- of award-winning chef Tim ority bowling. ings at Downtown Disney. I’m Cushman, the menu features a The addition of Splitsville sure it will quickly become a variety of higher-end offerings builds on the expanding guest favorite.” such as grilled Mahi Mahi with list of entertainment and The Splitsville concept is Voodoo shrimp, filet sliders retail options for guests at anchored by bowling — the and grilled chicken parmesan, Downtown Disney. Florida’s Splitsville Luxury Lanes is the retro-style bowling venue that largest participation sport in plus a kids menu, in addition first AMC Fork & Screen opened this past December on Downtown Disney’s West America — but with a modern to traditional bowling alley movie theater, Characters in Side. The new venue offers billiards, live entertainment and take that brings together enter- food items. There are even two Flight operated by Aerophile, plenty of upscale dining options. Splitsville is the brand’s tainment and upscale food in sushi bars where guests can Sunglass Icon, and Something only two-level location with 30 lanes and more than 50,000 a non-traditional bowling set- get fresh-rolled sushi. Silver are just a few of the other square feet of space — twice the size of any other Splitsville. ting. Unlike typical bowling “We’ve created a collec- recent additions to Downtown AT / SCOTT RUTHERFORD centers, Splitsville’s décor is tion of menu items that are Disney at Walt Disney World a blend of contemporary and perfect for sharing,” said Resort. nostalgic elements with the Guy Revelle, co-founder Splitsville at Downtown bowling lanes separated into of Splitsville. “Whether it is Disney is the Orlando- clusters that create unexpect- sushi, sliders or pizza, custom- based chain’s fifth location ed sight lines for guests. There ers can order combinations of joining venues in Tampa, are also lane concierges avail- food and then taste a little bit Miami, Fairview, Texas and able nightly to help maximize of everything. It creates a very Fredericksburg, Va. The expan- the guest experience. interactive and social experi- sion to Downtown Disney “Splitsville is about social- ence where the Splitsville con- comes during a growth era for ization and creating memo- cept helps ‘break the ice’ and the sport of bowling, which is ries. In a world of smart allow guests of all ages to relax the most popular participation phones, texts and social and enjoy their time at our sport in America with nearly media, people need an outlet luxury lanes!” 70 million people participating to connect in person again,” Prices vary based on time in the sport each year, accord- said Mark Gibson, co-founder of day and party size, and ing to the Bowling Proprietors’ of Splitsville. “Bowling is an include the cost of shoe rent- Association of America. activity that appeals to almost als. For guests who would like March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5 Discussion topics will in- Co-Moderators expected dialogue in areas such as cost- cess of Your FEC,” with Jerry EXPO clude how to use social media to be on hand are Dale Lazar, control, product procurement, Merola, CFO, Amusement En- Continued from page 1 to build awareness, generate H. Lazar & Son, Inc., Pitts- redemption, jukebox trends, tertainment Management & Rob Lowe, PAI/ATM Express, excitement, and enhance par- burgh, Pa., and Phil Juckem, gaming, and emerging equip- Alpha-Omega Amusements & Billings, Mont., serving as pre- ticipation, as well as to new All BrandsVending, Tampa, ment. Sales, presenter. senter and panelist. ways and ideas to attract and Fla. Set in a roundtable for- Networking and social op- Discussion topics for this maintain closer ties with busi- At the past two annual mat, different topics will be as- portunities offered by Amuse- session include how ATM ness constituents. Expos, this session has con- signed to each table. History ment Expo include: The AAM- business models work, how to Also from 9:10-10:10 a.m. sistently received high marks has shown it doesn’t take long CF Charity Golf Tournament, get started, available revenue is “Keeping Those Cranes from attendees, so much so at all to spark the exchange of set for 12:30, Tuesday, March streams, and how to incorpo- Cranking: Tweaks That Make that it has “made the cut” for ideas and information. 19, at the Royal Links Golf rate advertising, among other A Difference,” Marty Murin, the program lineup again this Upon conclusion of this Club; and the Industry Gala topics. There will also be a Rainbow Falls Video Service year. The ingredients that last session, attendees may Reception, set for 6:15 -8:15 question and answer period at Co., Tannersville, N.Y., mod- have made this so compelling meet for the tradeshow Ribbon p.m., March 20, at the Las Ve- the conclusion. erator and panelist, along with have been the open, often- Cutting and Awards Presenta- gas Hotel. Then, the third choice is a panel of experienced execu- spirited and frank discussion tion beginning at 11:45 a.m., But no doubt, there will be “The Ten Rules of FEC De- tives. The discussion will in- on timely, important industry just prior to the tradeshow other networking opportuni- sign,” with Doug Wilkerson, clude practices for maximizing topics. opening at 12 noon. ties being provided through- Principal, Dynamic Design & crane productivity. The second choice is “Ser- There are two sessions out the Expo. Associates Inc., presenter. Dis- The third choice is “Fi- vice Basics To Remarkable in the morning of Thursday, This will be the second cussion will include things one nancing and Capital Fund- Experiences, When Guest Ser- March 21. Each runs from year for the two-day Foun- needs to know to prepare to raising Strategies in the New vice Becomes a Weapon!” with 9-10 a.m., creating, again, nice dations Entertainment Uni- open a new family entertain- Economy,” with Jerry Merola, Frank Price, founder, Birthday choices for attendees. versity, an in-depth seminar ment center or the best way to CFO Amusement Entertain- University, as presenter. Top- One is “Social Media & completely directed to the FEC renovate. ment Management & Alpha- ics will be geared to the best Marketing for Your FEC,” with industry. It will be held prior Then, running from 9:10- Omega Amusements & Sales, way to create memorable ex- Alan Fluke, managing partner, to Amusement Expo, March 10:10 a.m. attendees will have as presenter. periences at an entertainment Sparians Bowling, Sports Bar 18-19, and will run 8:30 a.m.- three more choices. One of the Discussion will include facility. & Events Center, presenter. 9 p.m., Monday, 18, and 8:30 sessions is “Enhancing Your strategies in appropriately po- The third choice from This is an overview on the im- a.m.-5:30 p.m., Tuesday, 19. Route Via Social Networking,” sitioning an entertainment or- 10:20-11:40 a.m. is “The New portance of a dedicated social This program isn’t in- with Mary Lavine, Bullseye ganization for financing. Reality for FECs, Innovate or media strategy and under- cluded in the Amusement Inc., Madison, Wis., moderator From 10:20-11:40 a.m., an- Die,” with Randy White, CEO, standing who the core demo- Expo registration. However, and panelist; Barry Chandler, other three choices are avail- White Hutchinson Leisure & graphics are in an area to pro- registrants of the Foundations Chandler Interactive, Colum- able. Learning Group, presenter. mote business. Entertainment University will bus, Ohio, presenter; and Mi- There will be an “Opera- Directed by operator facili- The second choice for that gain entrance into the Amuse- chael Martinez, N2 Industries, tor Roundtable — Survival for tators, attendees will immerse time slot is “The Ten Criti- ment Expo tradeshow as well Inc., Brea, Calif., panelist. Route Operators III.” themselves in peer-to-peer cal Steps to the Financial Suc- as its education seminars. 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 INTERNATIONAL PARKS ATTRACTIONS RESORTS SUPPLIERS Bellewaerde adding themed Zierer indoor coaster, Huracan STORY: Andrew Mellor date of March 30, the new ride new attraction. But the treach- [email protected] will represent an investment erous Huracan will use all his BELGIUM — A new fami- of approximately €4 million forces to imprison the visitors ly coaster, Huracan, from Ger- (U.S. $5.4 million) and will be in the temple — forever! man manufacturer Zierer is themed on a storyline around The coaster has been cus- set to make its debut at Belle- the mythological Mayan god tom-built for Bellewaerde and waerde Park in Belgium for of wind, storm and fire, Hura- is an indoor attraction featur- the 2013 season. can, who was locked in a hid- ing unique characteristics and With a scheduled opening den temple by the Mayans on effects. Situated in the Mexico the site of the park many years square area of the park, the ex- Guests will enter ago. The Mayans wanted to perience begins as guests en- Bellewaerde’s latest protect their descendants ter the ride through a striking coaster via a themed from the destructive forces of entrance in the shape of a life- Mayan temple building. the god, and guests to the park size Mayan temple, through COURTESY will get the chance to visit the which they will see Huracan BELLEWAERDE PARK temple when they sample the 4See HURACAN, page 8 Oakwood investing in major family park area STORY: Andrew Mellor represents a major boost for [email protected] the local economy and will create a number of new jobs.” WALES — Oakwood And he continued: “It Theme Park in South Wales, will totally transform the visi- U.K., has revealed ambitious tor experience and provide a plans for a huge new invest- magical new series of attrac- ment program for 2013. tions aimed specifically at the The Pembrokshire-based family market. As part of the venue is spending more than investment we are also creat- GBP 4 million (U.S. $6.3 mil- ing family-friendly facilities lion) on the creation of a major within the themed area as well new family park area featur- as baby-changing facilities, ing a series of new rides and high chairs and microwaves. experiences. The area will This will be the largest new also include a family friendly attraction of its kind in Wales restaurant and café along- and is the first phase in an am- side outdoor play areas and Dominic Jones bitious and on-going program themed retail experiences. Oakwood Park Director of investment over the coming The new development years,” he added. will feature seven new rides summer holidays. Work on the project is well and attractions in total, includ- “This represents by far the underway and despite some ing a spectacular water ride largest investment at the park very bad weather conditions alongside a series of children’s for more than a decade and is a throughout the U.K. over the play areas and other themed direct response to visitor feed- winter months, everything is attractions, although at the back we have received,” com- going according to plan, Jones time of writing full details of mented park director Dominic confirmed. Construction is underway on the new area at Oakwood what the new additions will Jones. “As well as creating a Significantly too, de- Theme Park in South Wales. It is scheduled for completion be were still under wraps. It is must-see new destination for spite the considerable invest- before the main summer holidays this year. due to open prior to the main families, the development also 4See OAKWOOD, page 8 COURTESY OAKWOOD PARK 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013

The new coaster at Bellewaerde Park in Belgium is themed as Huracan, the mythical god of wind, storm and fire. To accent the theme, Zierer has designed these two snake-themed trains, each seating 20 riders. HURACAN COURTESY BELLEWAERDE PARK Continued from page 7 and a two headed snake which forms the coaster trains. The ride begins as a dark ride where visitors are ex- posed to fire, water and wind effects all within authentic Mayan décor. On leaving the station area via a lift, the train takes a curve above the Mex- ico Square before diving back inside the building where more special effects and on- board music add to the overall experience. Huracan is a Zierer Cus- tom Force Five coaster and has a track length of 500 meters (1,640 feet). It will have a maximum height of 15 meters (49 feet) and the two, 10 wagon, 20 passenger trains will reach a top speed of 50 km/h (31 mph). Hourly capacity will WHO and WHY be 1,000 riders. REAMUSEMENT? OAKWOOD Are your workloads continuing to increase Continued from page 7 and staffing at a minimum? ment, Oakwood has pledged to freeze its admission price REAMUSEMENT is the quality choice for you. We will be for 2013, again in response to your partner in completing maintenance “rehabs,” feedback received from visi- renovations, or new construction. tors, many of them locals, who continue to be affected by the Our goal is to provide quality maintenance of your trains, ride units, and current economic climate. structures to minimize the turnaround time to ensure your guests have the maximum entertainment experience. Industry news delivered direct to your desk! Our Services Rebuild ride units per manufacturer’s specifications • Rebuild ride units to meet all codes and certifications • Fiberglass repairs • Carpentry repairs • Repainting • Inside storage • Welding if discovered after NDT testing • Refurbish flat ride components and ride units • NDT inspections for the ride units per the manufacturer’s specifications • Assist with on-site set up if maintenance staff needs assistance • General contractor and/or assist with construction projects • Ride erection needs

1310 West Fourth Street Contact: Mansfield, OH 44906 Jack Falfas | (419) 202-7876 [email protected] SUBSCRIBE TODAY! Office: (567) 247-8204 Gary Gast | (567) 247-8204 [email protected] Fax: (419) 529-4288 Randy Payne | (567) 247-8204 amusementtoday com or call us at: www.reamusement.com (817) 460-7220 March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9 PARKS & ATTRACTIONS RIDES ENTERTAINMENT REVENUE SUPPLIERS Family Kingdom’s 2013 season to be highlighted by four Zamperla rides MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — The 2013 season at Myrtle Beach, this coaster thrilled guests at Gillian’s ment park side of the operation, Family Kingdom’s Family Kingdom Amusement Park is shaping up to Wonderland Pier (Wild Wonder, 1999) and Magic Waterpark will now be known as “splashes,” a name be a memorable one thanks to the recent announce- Springs & Crystal Falls (Twist ‘n’ Shout, 2000-12). change that officials say better reflects that it is a full- ment that South Carolina’s only traditional park is At Family Kingdom, the ride will retain the name of scale waterpark on two acres. Located directly on the installing a quartet of new family rides along with a Twist ‘n Shout. beach across Ocean Boulevard, the waterpark has rebranding of the complex’s adjacent seaside water- The coaster deal was brokered by Len Soled of operated since 1977 and remains the region’s only park. Rides-4U as was a park model Frog Hopper , which true oceanfront waterpark. Family Kingdom’s reigning king of the mid- came from Happy Home Amusements in Goffstown, The amusement park has operated since 1966 and way remains the venerable Swamp Fox, a PTC/John N.H. was originally known as Grand Strand Amusement Allen wooden roller coaster that opened in 1966. But Also joining the 13-acre park’s ride arsenal this Park. It was renamed Family Kingdom in 1992 when the popular ride gets a steel cousin this spring with season are two more Zamperla attractions: a Kite it was purchased by the Ammons family, which also the addition of a Zamperla Zig Zag coaster. The Flyer (relocated from Itz Family Food & Fun in owns the Sea Mist Oceanfront Resort next door. 35-foot-tall wild mouse-style ride features a com- Colorado Springs, Colo.) and Flying Tigers, a sus- Family Kingdom opens for the 2013 season on pact course laced with plenty of tight, switchback pended airplane ride. March 23. turns and quick drops. Prior to migrating south to In addition to the new rides at the amuse- —Scott Rutherford SBF Visa, Zamperla supply Silverwood with two new rides for 2013 ATHOL, Idaho — season. One will be geared ed within a five-foot-deep Silverwood Theme Park has for thrill seekers while the pit so that riders can board announced the addition of other was seclected to appeal at ground level instead of two new rides for the 2013 to families and children. climbing onto a platform. A The first, supplied by naming contest for the new Italian manufacturer SBF ride is currently underway. Visa Group through U.S. Also Italian-made, the sales representative Rides- Barnstormer from Zamperla, 4-U, is a Dance Party 360 is a colorful biplane-themed swinging pendulum ride. family ride that accommo- Standing 107-foot-tall, the dates up to 20 guests (includ- ride accommodates 24 guests ing adults) in two 10-seat in a circular gondola with gondolas. Once in motion, outward-facing seats. As the the passenger vehicles reach ride cycle starts, the gon- up to 10 rpms. It will be locat- dola begins to swing back ed in the Garfield Summer and forth as well as rotate at Camp area of the park. the end of its support arm. The Barnstormer is one This will be the first model of only two rides like it in the to make complete 360-degree United States, with the other inversions. Rotational speed being located at Six Flags Silverwood Theme Park has of the main gondola is 15 rpm Great Adventure. The ride announced the addition of while the overhead rotational has already arrived at the two new rides for the 2013 speed is 14 rpm. Guests will park and will be assembled season. The Dance Party expereince up 3.5 Gs when as soon as weather permits 360 swinging pendulum ride the ride is in full motion. and the winter snow dissi- (supplied by SBF Visa Group) After being shipped via pates. will be the first model to land and sea in five contain- With a price tag of over make complete 360 invert- ers from Italy, the attrac- $2.2 million for the two new ing rotations. A Zamperla tion is expected to arrive at rides, Silverwood continues Barnstormer, biplane- Silverwood on April 4. The to invest in its infrastructure themed family ride, will area of installation will be to maintain its position as be located in the Garfield Summer Camp area of the prepped and ready with final one of the northwest’s pre- park. assembly requiring only five miere destination for family COURTESY SILVERWOOD days. The ride will be effect- fun and thrills. Creating Memories & Profitability

• abc rides switzerland • Cogan Kiddie Rides • Moser Rides • Used Rides & Games • Wattman Trains Nashville Zoo Train www.intermarkridegroup.com Voodoo Interactive Raft, abc rides Hoopla, Moser Rides Wattman Mini Express TEL 615.370.9625 FAX 615.370.8852 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 S&S El Loco going to Adventuredome LAS VEGAS, Nev. –– this year it will be only the efforts to entice a new gen- S&S-Sansei Technologies, second such ride to operate eration of roller coaster lov- Inc. has confirmed that the in the U.S. The first opened ers,” said Tom Nolan, vice Utah-based ride manufactur- as Steel Hawg at Indiana president of operations for er will supply one of its El Beach in 2008. Like that coast- Adventuredome. Loco steel roller coasters for er, El Loco will feature a the Adventuredome at Circus 70-foot beyond-vertical first S&S-Sansei’s El Loco Circus. The new coaster will drop along with a 45-degree steel roller coaster replace one of the park’s orig- outward banked turn and a is coming to the inal rides, the Rim Runner 180-degree barrel roll along its Adventuredome at (Arrow Dynamics Shoot-the- 1,300 feet of track. Circus Circus, with an Chute), which closed to the “The addition of El opening slated for public on Feb. 3, 2013. Loco to the Adventuredome December 2013. When El Loco opens later is a significant move in our COURTESY S&S-SANSEI Beech Bend Park AMUSEMENT chooses name for MARKET PLACE new Revolution

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — After two months of contemplation, officials at Kentucky’s Beech Bend Park have finally chosen the name Vortex for the park’s new-for-2013 attraction. Beech Bend owner Dallas Jones and his family signed a contract to purchase the Chance Revolution while attending the IAAPA trade show in Orlando last November. “We got a little help from our friends at the American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE),” Structural Technologies Inc. said Jones. “We asked for ideas and they came up with some great ones and New Construction some pretty funny ones Renovations as well. We thought we’d Daily Maintenance share a few of our favor- Relocations Track Replacement ite unchosen ones: Spin Demolition Dry, The Claw, The Spin Inspections Cycle, Beech Blender and Emergency Work The Duke of Hurl.” “Bill Denekamp submitted the name close to 380 Bad Man Hill Rd. • Paxinos, PA 17860 the one we chose: Spinning (570) 590-3255 or (570) 590-9880 | [email protected] Vortex of Terror. We short- ened it up just a bit and settled on Vortex, which Aerial Tramway Design & Manufacture means a whirling mass of air,” added Jones. SkyTrans Mfg.,L.L.C. Guests will definitely feel some airtime on Vortex, 106 Burnham Intervale Road Contoocook, N.H. 03229 The revolving swing will Phone: (603) 746-4446 Fax: (603) 746-4447 take them 60 feet into the air reaching a maximum •Specializing in sales & refurbishment of used aerial tramways swing angle of 240 degrees. •Replacement parts for aerial tramways and amusement rides Riders will sit facing each •New ride control systems and modifications other to maximize the inter- •Rebuilt used chairlifts - one year guarantee active experience, and at the (603) 746-4446 height of the swing, they Parts and Service Jerry Pendleton or Dan Pendleton will be suspended upside down. Beech Bend’s new Vortex ride is currently Keep our amusement park industry strong! scheduled to open on May Buy products and services from these suppliers. 18, 2013. March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 11

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Lake Compounce introduced their new 3Pay Sea- “Fair Deals” promotion from May 1 through June 30. son Pass payment plan. The plan allows purchasers to Tickets will be available at each of its 76 offices in Wis- pay for their passes in three even installments.They also consin along with its one office in Minnesota. have the option of adding parking passes to their pur- • chase. The passes may be purchased online at www. COMPILED: Scott Rutherford, Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium took the highest lakecompounce.com for a limited time, and must be [email protected] spot in attendance among all aquariums in the United paid in full before the pass holders are able to use them. States in 2012. The Shedd Aquarium welcomed exactly • SeaWorld Orlando launched its “Epic Voyage” 2,169,333 guests, which also helped the iconic Chicago SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment launched new campaign in New York City to preview Antarctica: Em- institution hold its ranking as most-attended cultural at- mobile websites for the three SeaWorld and two Busch pire of the Penguin, the park’s all-new, largest-ever traction for the sixth year in a row. Gardens parks, providing guests and fans with a conve- attraction opening this spring. The campaign includes • nient and easy way to plan their vacations and purchase stops in seven cities and a new mobile app, both de- Five of 49 cold-stunned sea turtles rescued from and redeem tickets directly from their mobile devices. signed to give families a sneak peek into the new attrac- North Carolina’s coast have been taken to the N.C. The new sites were designed to work with some of the tion’s thrilling and chilling adventure in ways as amazing Aquarium at Fort Fisher for treatment. The unusually most popular cell phone operating systems, including as the continent itself. For more information about the cold temperatures caused the turtles to become cold- Apple, Android and Windows. Epic Voyage, visit SeaWorldOrlando.com/Antarctica. stunned, and to help the public understand sea turtle • • conservation, the aquarium will be offering special be- Younger visitors are invited to join in the fun at Three Space Shuttle astronauts have been selected hind-the-scenes turtle rehab hours. Legoland Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth and for the 2013 U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame Induction. • Sea Life Aquarium Grapevine with the launch of Tod- Curt Brown, Eileen Collins and Bonnie Dunbar, Ph.D., The Los Angeles City Council has unanimously ap- dler Tuesdays featuring discounted admission. At Lego- will join an elite group of American space heroes as proved a development agreement with Universal to land, the event will be held the third Tuesday of each they are inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame fully execute The NBCUniversal Evolution Plan, a $1.6 month through Dec. 17 while at Sea Life Aquarium, it on Saturday, April 20, 2013, during a ceremony at Ken- billion multiphase expansion of the theme park and ad- will be on the second Tuesday through Dec.10. nedy Space Center Visitor Complex. jacent studio lots. • • • Kings Dominion has confirmed that SweetFrog, Canada’s Assiniboine Park Zoo in Winnipeg re- While Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disney- the popular Richmond-based self-serve frozen yogurt cently unveiled a new eatery and play area, the Tundra land is closed for a major refurbishment that will include company will open its first-ever amusement park loca- Grill and Polar Playground. As part of the second-phase all-new track and updates to the mountain itself, anoth- tion at Kings Dominion in the spring of 2013. Sweet- of a $200 million upgrade at the zoo, the playground er area receiving an update will be the Rainbow Ridge Frog will be located outside of the Woodstock Express features a jungle gym, slides and interactive games Mining Town. Dating back to 1956 and the Rainbow roller coaster in the park’s newly expanded Planet where children can make their own music. Caverns Mine Train attraction, Rainbow Ridge Mining Snoopy. SweetFrog offers guests a large selection of • Town is a classic feature of Frontierland. When the Big frozen yogurt flavors including fat free, sugar free, and Wisconsin State Fair executives have announced a Thunder Mountain Railroad reopens this fall, Rainbow gluten free options. Customers will also have dozens of partnership with Bank Mutual Corporation for the 2013 Ridge Mining Town will look very much the same as it toppings to choose from including fresh fruit, granola, fair. Bank Mutual will serve as the title sponsor of the always has. It is being refurbished with new materials, wet walnuts, crushed candy bars, chocolate, caramel, Bank Mutual Amphitheater, which is the biggest free but many items from the original area will be reused shredded coconut and more. entertainment spot on fair grounds. Bank Mutual will such as props, signs and select doors, windows and • also sell $5 Wisconsin State Fair tickets during a special shutters. March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 13 14 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 15 WATERPARKS & RESORTS INDOOR FACILITIES AQUATIC CENTERS RECREATION SUPPLIERS White Water Bay announces largest expansion to the park in 20 years OKLAHOMA CITY, curves. Both attractions Okla. — White Water Bay are provided by ProSlide has announced for 2013 the Technology of Canada. largest expansion to the “We are thrilled with park in over 20 years, add- the expansion to the park ing two major water attrac- and are confident that the tions: CannonBowl and new attractions will quick- Pipeline Wave. The combi- ly become a favorite,” says nation of these high thrill David Riddles, general tube rides is the first of its manager at White Water kind in the country and is Bay. “Our loyal guests were sure to double the fun for ready for a new ride and park guests this season. we are excited to offer them The expansion will be two.” located on the northeast side The CannonBowl and of the park and includes Pipeline Wave will open a structure combining both with the park for the 2013 attractions. season on May 18. This The CannonBowl is great new attraction comes a two-person double tube on the heels of Wild West ride, 317 feet long with a Water Works at Frontier 41 foot drop. Riders will City, Frontier City’s first experience the adventure major waterpark attraction. of a steep decent down a White Water Bay is tunnel and into the bowl owned by CNL Lifestyle where they revolve inside ProSlide is delivering this two-slide tower to White Water Bay for 2013. It is the waterpark’s Properties based in Orlando, the perimeter before being largest expansion in 20 years. Fla. and operated by Premier dropped through the cork- COURTESY WHITE WATER BAY Attractions Management in screw exit. extreme two-person face-to- 201 feet long with a 41-foot through enclosed tunnels Oklahoma City. The Pipeline Wave is an face WhirlyWheel tube ride, drop in which guests blast and soar to the top of banked

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Splish Splash adding ProSlide Rocket announces two new slides CALVERTON, N.Y. — Already known for ing to speeds of 30 mph, all experienced in the unique rides, Splish Splash Waterpark will spray of splashing water,” Bengtson said. ARLINGTON, Texas — offer guests a radically different experience The ProSlide hydromagnetic technology Big changes are coming to the with Bootlegger’s Run, the new attraction uses linear induction motors to generate pow- largest waterpark in North opening in 2013. erful electromagnetic fields that propel the Texas. The 2013 season at Six Bootlegger’s Run will be the first ever steel-bottomed rafts uphill. This new ride will Flags Hurricane Harbor will water ride in the state of New York featuring be the largest single investment Splish Splash be even bigger, better and wet- new generation hydromagnetic technology. has ever made and is one of only a handful of ter with the debut of two thrill- “Bootlegger’s Run is like a roller coaster that such rides in the nation. ing new slides — Typhoon races on water instead of rails,” said general “We feel Bootlegger’s Run will immediate- Twister and Tsunami Surge. manager Mike Bengtson. ly become the most popular ride at the park,” Scheduled to open in early Supplied by ProSlide of Canada, Bengtson added. “Splish Splash is already one summer, these two new rides Bootlegger’s Run will a take four-person raft of America’s greatest waterparks…and it just will beckon guests of all ages uphill, for a series of breathtaking drops, got better.” including one from nearly five stories high. Splish Splash opens the 2013 season on to take the ultimate plunge. ride down a tunnel and into a “The ride begins with a 235-foot long lift Memorial Day weekend. On Typhoon Twister, bowl-shaped slide. After spin- hill climb, then rockets into an exhilarating guests board slides built for —Jeffrey Seifert ning around multiple times rush of drops, rapids and slingshot climbs, rac- two for an adrenaline-packed 4See SLIDES, page 17 MEDIA

16 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 NEWSPAPER EMPLOYEE IN GOOD STANDING

B.NEWS JEFFREYDEREK SHAW L. SEIFERTSPLASH COMPILED:EDITORIALEDITORIAL Jeffrey L. Seifert, [email protected]

MEDIAMEDIA The 35-acre Beach Waterpark in Mason, Ohio, isCREDENTIAL CREDENTIALowners are committed to implementing significant • scheduled to reopen May 18, 2013 with $5 million in VALIDimprovementsVALID 2010 over the next few years.” Shillcutt Work on the AUS115 (U.S. $118) million Wet improvements. The park will be under the manage- THROUGHTHROUGHadded, 2012 “Our short-term vision is to improve the park ‘n’ Wild Sydney waterpark is on schedule for the ment of Florida-based Adventure Holdings LLC that each year so to add value to our guests and make the planned December opening. The largest waterpark currently operates 18 family entertainment centers waterpark a showcase for the Little Rock area.” in the southern hemisphere will feature 37 slides in- across the country. Improvements include renovationsGARY SLADE • cluding several world firsts. A spokesperson for de- PUBLISHER, AMUSEMENT TODAY to the wave pool, activity area and kids area along Great Wolf Lodge, Grand Mound, Wash. has velopers Village Roadshow said the park is expected with some exciting new slides. Adventure Holdings installed a Howl at the Moon mini-golf course. The to generate AUS500 (U.S. $517) million in economic has agreed to honor the nearly 8,800 season passes indoor course, installed by Art Attack of Alberta, activity for the local economy. that were sold for the 2012 season. The waterpark’s Canada, continues Great Wolf Lodge’s wilderness • previous owners sold the season passes before an- theme by immersing guests in a rich black light envi- The children of Boise, Idaho, can have fun at a nouncing on March 9, 2012, that the park would not ronment full of colorful forest creatures. The fun and water spray park at the Comba Neighborhood Park open for the 2012 season. Refunds were not offered challenging nine-hole course is designed for players thanks to an anonymous donor. $50,100 was donated as the park claimed all of the money generated from of all ages. to pay for in-ground fountains, bubblers, a rotating pass sales had been spent, and utilities and vendors • splash blaster and interactive play features at the were still owed money. Prior to the 2012 closing the City officials of Cedar Park, Texas, continue to partially developed park. The land for the park was Beach Waterpark had operated for 27 years. meet with representatives from Schlitterbahn in the donated to the City of Boise in 2000 by the Comba • hopes of developing a waterpark plan resembling family. In addition to the splash park, the master plan Pennsylvania’s largest waterpark, Camelbeach what was announced in January 2010. The original calls for community gardens, a picnic shelter, shade Mountain, and Dollywood’s Splash Country in Ten- plan called for $360 million resort that included lodg- structures, green space, a playground and commu- nessee have both jumped on the virtual-queue band- ing, retail stores and restaurants built by Schlitter- nity center. wagon, signing an agreement with Lo-Q. The parks bahn with partner Cedar Park Land. The first portion • will offer the Q-band RFID wristband at additional of the waterpark was predicted to open in May 2012. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has cost. Guests who take advantage of the service can Financing fell through on the deal and Cedar Park proposed a $93 million indoor waterpark, hotel and check-in at kiosks located around the park, and will Land is no longer involved in the project. Schlitter- entertainment complex to help attract tourists year- be notified when it is their turn to ride. Q-band-wear- bahn has confirmed the company is still interested in round to its reservation. The tribe’s current tourism ing guests will then use a separate entrance to bypass building a waterpark in Cedar Park but would not dis- offerings include a successful Harrrah’s Casino and those standing in line. cuss a timeline for the project. The project has been resort that primarily draws a 21-and-over crowd. Cur- “Venues like Camelbeach understand that to- reduced to a $75 million, 16-acre indoor/outdoor wa- rently more than 80 percent of the visitors are 45 and day’s guests want and expect a premium park experi- terpark close to the original location. older. The tribe feels the addition of an indoor water- ence that includes limiting the amount of time they • park resort would encourage more families to visit for stand in line,” said Steve Brown, president and chief Wet ‘n’ Wild waterpark, under construction in an overnight stay. The reservation, just south of the operating officer of Lo-Q. “We’re thrilled to offer a Las Vegas, utilized Facebook social networking to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, also offers a product that allows our clients to meet that need decide the name of the park’s wave pool. Facebook spa, golf course, museum and other cultural centers within the unique waterpark environment.” Brown friends were first asked to submit names, then the as well as hiking and fly fishing. added, “We are thrilled to be extending our partner- field was narrowed down to five and opened up for • ship with Dollywood for an additional three years. We voting. More than 2,300 people voted and the win- The World Waterpark Association (WWA) are also extremely excited that the company has de- ning name of Red Rock Bay was chosen over runners needs waterpark operators and aquatic centers to cided to install our additional Q-band system at its up Ragin’ Rebel, Neon Beach, Mojave Monsoon and make as big a noise as possible during this year’s water park. For us, this decision marks another impor- Cactus Curl. Ted Stringer submitted the winning World’s Largest Swimming Lesson (WLSL), Tuesday, tant vote of confidence in the value and capability of entry and will be awarded a VIP experience during June 18th, 2013 at 3 pm GMT (11am ET, 8 am PT.) our technology.” opening weekend. Wet ‘n’ Wild is scheduled to open The WWA is going to need all hands on deck in order • Memorial Day Weekend. to set a new world record for the fourth year in row! In Fort Smith, Ark. the city and county gov- • Waterparks — even those that don’t normally ernments are working together to build an $8 mil- Visitors to WaterWorld@i-City [Editor’s note: offer swimming lessons — are great venues for this lion waterpark for city residents. Sebastian County yes, this is the correct spelling!] in Shah Alam, Malay- event. Just ask Schlitterbahn waterparks in Texas and has pledged $4 million from its sales tax revenues sia, can now enjoy splashing and swimming under the Kansas, Big Surf Waterpark in Arizona and Hyland that are reserved for capital improvements. The city stars, with nighttime operation running from 7 p.m. Hills Water World in Colorado. They’ve all partici- of Fort Smith will provide the remaining $4 million to 11 p.m. daily. Director Monica Ong said, “While pated in this out-of-the-box water safety event to im- through the extension of an existing tax. The project the daytime is mainly targeted at families with chil- pact water safety in their community and generate is expected to generate enough revenues to cover dren, the night operation is aimed at young working positive media coverage in their market. its operating costs. Plans, unveiled to the city resi- adults. They usually don’t have time to visit this place To get started promoting a WLSL event parks can dents in February, show several large slides as well as during the daytime due to their working hours. Now use the Save The Date tool kit. A customizable press gradual entry pool area with play amenities for small- that we have extended our visiting hours, busy adults release, a Save-the-Date snipe and a Save-the-Date er children. Although the waterpark is scheduled to can now enjoy a splash and experience the fun-filled web banner can be found at WLSL.org. Look for the open Memorial Day 2014, the project developer and rides here after a hard day’s work. blue web button that says “Promote WLSL 2013” on suppliers have yet to be announced. • it. • When the expanded waterpark at Quassy • The troubled Wild River Country, Arkansas’ Amusement Park opens for its 105th season it will Castaway Cove waterpark in Wichita Falls, Texas largest waterpark, has been sold. The park filed for have a new name. The former Saturation Station is has started making changes in order to comply with Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in November of being changed to Splash Away Bay. The four new at- stage three water restrictions brought about by a 2005 after Community Bank of Cabot threatened to tractions — three from ProSlide and one from Vortex drought emergency affecting much of northwest Tex- foreclose on the property for defaulting on a $3.08 Aquatic Structures will nearly double the size of the as. When the park opens for the season, a number of million loan. The park, owned by Halcyon Attrac- existing waterpark. spray features in the children’s area and lazy river will tions of Arkansas LLC, a subsidiary of Halcyon At- • be turned off to prevent water loss through evapora- tractions Corp. of Toronto, had been operated for the PortAventura, Salou, Spain, is investing €10 tion. According to city reports the park uses less than past three years by a company called Reve Manage- (U.S. $13.4) million to expand its Costa Caribe 0.03 percent of the city’s total water consumption. ment. The park was sold to Aquapark Holdings LLC Aquatic Park for 2013. Among the new attractions Except for what is lost through evaporation, all of the of North Little Rock, a private investment company will be the highest freefall slide in Europe, a six-lane water in the park is filtered and reused. However if that had recently registered with the state of Arkan- racing slide, and a pirate ship waterplay structure the city is forced into stage four water restrictions, sas in October. Chris Shillcut, a 22-year veteran of with four slides, and a Splash Pad play area for young enacted when lake levels drop below 30 percent, the waterpark and amusement industry was named children. The waterpark expansion was the result of a the waterpark could be forced to make even more the new vice president of operations. Shilcutt most 2012 study that indicated foreign visitors who choose changes and possibly even shut down. Castaway recently worked for Great Wolf Lodge Resorts. A to visit PortAventura did so because there is both a Cove brings in $1.5 million in revenue and provides spokesperson for Aquapark Holdings said, “The new waterpark and theme park. approximately 150 summer jobs. March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 17 SLIDES Polin to begin construction on Macedonia waterpark Continued from page 15 in the belly of the slide, riders MACEDONIA — Con- summer attraction,” he said. are thrust through a corkscrew struction has not yet started, “It will provide a direct im- exit into a refreshing splash but Polin Waterparks and Pool pact on local tourism efforts pool. Tsunami Surge sends Systems has begun shipping and on the Karpos municipal- couples twisting and turning materials to the site of a new ity’s economy, along with pro- down a 68-foot enclosed tun- government-funded water- viding 35 jobs.” nel while they build up speed park in Skopje, a city in the Specifically, some of the to take on a 40-foot wave slide Balkan country of Macedonia. major attractions at the new Skopje is the capital and park will include: on the other side. Guests ex- This computer perience zero-gravity as they largest city in Macedonia, •A waterslide with head- home to about a third of the rendering shows the five first mat racing. surge to the top of the slide be- different slide attractions fore gliding down to the land- country’s population. •An extreme slide with a Prime Minister Niko- being supplied by Polin to water-propelled uphill por- ing pool. Typhoon Twister the new Macedonia and Tsunami Surge are built la Gruevski attended the tion followed by steep drops groundbreaking ceremony waterpark. that ends in a splash pool. by Canada’s ProSlide Technol- COURTESY POLIN ogy. last month. Ratko Kapusevski, •A Space Boat, which To celebrate the an- director of the new aquatic combines the elements of Po- after Boris Trajkovski, for- (104 degrees F). Summertime nouncement of the park’s two venue, said the attraction lin’s Space Hole with its Black mer president of the Repub- precipitation is rarely an issue new rides, Six Flags Hurri- complements the city’s “Sko- Hole attraction. lic of Macedonia from 1999 to with most rainfall from April cane Harbor hosted a Polar pje 2014” project in which the •A body slide that propels 2004 whose presidency ended to June and October to Decem- Plunge Wedding on February country has been working to riders along a slide of both when he died in a plane crash ber. 14 at 11:00 a.m. Four couples build on the area’s historic drops and straight-aways at on his way to an economic Construction for the wa- took the ceremonial “plunge” roots. Improvements that are different speeds. summit. terpark is planned to begin in before taking the ultimate part of that project include the •An Aquatube, a fast ride March, before the rainy season plunge into the park’s wave erection of new statues, foun- that can include both visual A perfect playground begins. And despite the po- pool. Two of the couples got tains, bridges and museums. and auditory special effects. Skopje offers a climate tential for rainfall during the married, while the other two “We expect this new aqua A kids area with a rabbit that lends itself well to the at- construction period, city of- renewed their vows. After the park will allow our area to slide, giraffe shower, mush- tractions of a waterpark. Sum- ficials said they expected the ceremony and polar plunge, a provide guests with even room fountain, mini octopus mers are long, hot and humid park to be open by the start reception was held, complete more reasons to visit our re- slide and a pirate-themed with average temperatures of summer. Kapusevski said with a first dance, cake cut- markable city,” he said. multi-level water-play struc- of 31 degrees C (88 degrees construction would take no ting, and a bouquet and garter Costs of the new water- ture with slides, tipping buck- F), though high temperatures longer than 45 days. “This wa- toss. park are estimated to be €4.2 ets, water cannons and net million. The venue is named sometimes reach 40 degrees C terpark will be Skopje’s main climbs. 18 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 19 20 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 21

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55+ AWARDS IN 20 YEARS 22 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 23 BUSINESS REVENUE PEOPLE SAFETY SUPPLIERS Gold Medal experiences growth, purchases new Ohio warehouse CINCINNATI, Ohio — World-renowned popcorn giant Gold Medal Products continues to experience double-digit sales Gold Medal Products continues to enjoy a brisk business. For growth. To accommodate the additional business, the company 82 years it has outgrown five locations and expanded its cur- recently purchased a new 42,000-square-foot building that will rent building four times. It became the worldwide concession ultimately serve as manufacturing and storage space. leader from its home base in Cincinnati, and has never laid off COURTESY GOLD MEDAL an employee. And now, as the company continues to experience double-digit sales growth, Gold Medal purchased a new building to accommodate this growth. The new space, located across the street from the current world headquarters, is approximately 42,000-square feet and features tilt-up concrete construction. While it is currently being used for warehousing the building will ultimately serve as manufacturing and storage space. Gold Medal continues to look toward the future and worldwide expansion by aggressively pursuing new opportunities that not only fit within existing product lines and current distri- bution channels, but that also expand the overall scope of their market share, including new product lines. •www.gmpopcorn.com Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s debuts new entry plaza KENNEDY SPACE any destination is one of the CENTER, Fla. — The new most important moments you entry experience, retail shop, have with your guests,” said and restaurant at NASA’s PGAV Destinations Principal Kennedy Space Center Visitor Mike Konzen. “You only have Complex were all recently one chance to make a crucial unveiled. The $16 million first impression that sets the project is the first phase of tone for their entire day.” a 10-year master plan devel- Working in tandem with oped by PGAV Destinations, Kennedy Space Center Visitor which preceeds the opening Complex operators Delaware of the new $100 million home North Companies Parks & for the space shuttle Atlantis Resorts, PGAV Destinations’ later this year. design incorporates numer- The new entrance incor- ous thrilling elements into the porates a grand entry plaza, entry experience. The stron- a 75-foot-long, 5,000-gallon gest of which is the complete fountain, and a completely redirection of foot-traffic re-designed ticket station, entering and exiting Kennedy The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s has debuted this new 75-foot-long, 5,000-gal- increasing guest flow with Space Center: guests are now loon entry plaza. COURTESY KENNEDY SPACE CENTER will-call and guest services directed through the Rocket Visitor Complex’s over-arch- themed layout that evokes the Complex,” said Moore. “The stations. New offerings like Garden, dwarfed by the tow- ing brand. lift-off of space shuttles. changes to our entrance and the Voyagers retail shop pro- ering powerhouses of Titan, Among many elements The Kennedy Space ticket plaza, along with our vide rich new opportunities Redstone, Atlas, and Saturn is a fountain show themed Center Visitor Complex’s new Voyagers retail shop for visitors before they’ve 1B rockets that propelled cap- to a space shuttle launch, an Chief Operating Officer Bill and Rocket Garden Café, are even set foot inside the sules into space. Combined 18-foot glass model of Mars, Moore said, “We are eager just the initial elements in a Kennedy Space Center. The with these brand-new intrigu- a pathway constructed of the to reveal to our guests the comprehensive plan. Next retro-themed Rocket Garden ing elements is the theme of same Tennessee river rock first stage in an array enhance- we unveil the new home for Cafe restaurant offers an all- Explore, interwoven through- which the “crawler” moves ments that create for them a space shuttle Atlantis, which new menu and a view of the out the design imagery of the along to carry rockets from the more meaningful, purposeful is already well under way for historic rockets. entry experience — melding Vehicle Assembly Building to and enjoyable experience at a scheduled opening in July “The entry experience at with Kennedy Space Center the launch pad, and an entire Kennedy Space Center Visitor 2013.” Looking for a part? E-mail us! Email: [email protected]

NORTH AMERICAN PARTS, INC. (716) 839-4791 x101 24 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 Attendees flock to annual seminars, conferences AIMS Safety Seminar hits 300 mark with attendance STORY: Pam Sherborne [email protected] ORLANDO, Fla. — Last fall organizers of the annual AIMS International Safety Seminar were optimistic attendance would reach 300 and, according to Kelly Bernish, AIMS business consultant, that is just what happened when they met at the Double- tree by Hilton at SeaWorld Jan. 13-18. During NAARSO’s 2013 Safety Forum at Dollywood, Pigeon AIMS Safety Seminar is a Forge, Tenn., the host park created 12 different ride scenari- comprehensive safety-training os and inspection stations to provide hands-on learning ex- experience for individuals periences for each participant at different ride types. Shown responsible for the care and here is training on the Dizzy Disk, a Zamperla Disk’O. safety of the amusement in- COURTESY DOLLYWOOD dustry’s guests. The seminar offers a diverse curriculum. 26th annual NAARSO seminar And, this year, there were 50 brand new courses. At the deemed another success story end of January, Bernish didn’t PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — The 2013 NAARSO Annual Safe- have the results of the surveys Above, Steve Laycock of ty Seminar drew 250 park and ride operators, maintenance per- given to participants, but she Chance Rides teaches one of sonnel and safety inspectors from around the world here from felt the new courses were very the many courses Jan. 26-Feb. 2 to learn and share stories in a hands-on environ- well received. offered during the 2013 ment at Dollywood. “Overall surveys were AIMS Safety Seminar. At The six-day conference provided classroom instruction and very positive and, generally right, the silent auction had practical inspection classes at the host park. This year NAARSO speaking, many people said plenty of merchandise for introduced a brand new track for training and certification. Ex- this was the best seminar yet,” students to bid on. clusively for operators of amusement attractions, Laura Wood- she said. AT/MARLON SCOTT burn, NAARSO public relations and director of operations of The new courses replaced Hersheypark, Hershey, Pa., said the new track seemed to be some of the older ones that It includes: Certified tification and the Aquatics very well received. have been offered for a while. Maintenance Technician - Operations Certification pro- “It was very well attended,” said Woodburn, who presented There were a total of 30 Level I; Certified Maintenance grams are all designed to test the new seminar. “We had 70 people out of the 250 at the semi- hours of coursework. Technician - Level II; Certified the knowledge of individuals nar to participate.” Participants of the AIMS Operations Technician - Level working in the specific field Woodburn said participants for this debut were primarily seminar build a tailored I; Certified Operations Tech- within the amusement indus- those in charge of training and creating safety programs for their course curriculum that best nician - Level II; Certified try. facility’s attractions operators. It was a 16-hour seminar that in- suits their needs and the needs Aquatics Operations Techni- All have three levels of cluded topics such as ride training, passenging, ASTM, docu- of their employers. Safety in- cian - Level I; Associate Ride certification except for the mentation, inspection of the attraction, how to identify problem- formation is carried home and Inspector - Level I; Certi- Aquatics, which has only one. atic riders, weather related safety and how to train employees. shared with colleagues and fied Ride Inspector - Level II; The 2014 AIMS Safety NAARSO has an outreach arm that takes the association’s co-workers back on the job. and Professional Ride Inspec- Seminar is scheduled for Janu- seminars on the road, but Woodburn said they weren’t sure The seminar has both sit- tor - Level III. ary 12-17, 2014, at the Double- when this new track would hit the road. down and hands-on classes. The Inspector Certifica- tree by Hilton at SeaWorld in “It won’t be this year,” she said. “We want to get feedback This participation is a requi- tion, the Maintenance Cer- Orlando. from the participants and understand what we can do to make site for all professionals in the tification, Operations Cer- it work for those that need it,” she said. amusement industry. Woodburn said Dollywood was a great host park. Park officials created 12 different ride scenarios and inspection stations IAAPA’s FEC Phoenix conference sells out to provide hands-on learning experiences for each participant PHOENIX, Ariz. — A sellout crowd of more operators. Topics include current and future at different ride types. Certification testing is done at the end of than 150 family entertainment center (FEC)-in- trends, attraction and revenue performance, the week. dustry leaders has registered for FEC Phoenix, food and beverage, group sales, social media, “We’re proud to have NAARSO at Dollywood and in Pi- the new FEC operators’ conference produced parties, management and human resources, the geon Forge this week,” Robbie Fox, Dollywood vice president of by the International Association of Amusement future of the industry, and more. safety said. “We are a firm believer in what NAARSO does. We Parks and Attractions (IAAPA). The two-day “The response to FEC Phoenix has been send our key personnel to the school each year for certification education, networking, and business-building amazing and underscores there is a need for and when the school is at Dollywood, it helps us be even safer.” event was taking place at the Millennium Scott- this type of education and networking confer- All instructors for NAARSO are volunteers who are com- sdale Resort and Villas, near Phoenix, Arizona, ence,” said Gregg Borman, senior vice president mitted to the organization’s mission, which is safety through Feb. 26-28, just as AT was going to press. of operations, FEC Division at Palace Entertain- communication. As the industry leaders in safety certification, FEC owners, operators, and professionals ment and chair of the IAAPA FEC Committee. NAARSO works to make park and midway rides safer for fami- were meeting face-to-face to discuss the latest “We’ve put together a unique education pro- lies through a comprehensive training program with communi- trends, build a network of business colleagues, gram and the opportunities for networking, cation at its core. gain insight from others, and share best prac- sharing ideas, and making new connections are “I’ve been coming to NAARSO for more than 20 years and tices all with a keen focus on improving sales unparalleled. It should be a great experience.” as far as I’m concerned, it’s the best place to learn new things and the bottom line. Attendees participated in Thirty-eight supporting companies spon- not only from the instructors but from the participants,” said fast-paced meetings, information-filled presen- sored FEC Phoenix. Dan Dudley, a veteran Texas ride inspector. “No one has all the tations, and conversations with successful FEC answers, but schools like NAARSO and parks like Dollywood help make rides safer for kids.” March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 25

www.aimsintl.org

Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers International, Ltd. • 3026 S. Orange • Santa Ana, Calif. 92707 Phone: (714) 425-5747 • Fax: (714) 276-9666 • E-mail: [email protected] • Web: www.aimsintl.org AIMS and the sharing of life’s tales

Mike Gutknecht of AIMS International. Fear was the biggest challenge made me realize that there really is a common thread Ride Entertainment Group I faced when I found myself in this position. Yes, I was between our personal lives and our lives at work: how of Companies and scared, and quite frankly I questioned the judgment we live our personal lives has an impact on how we AIMS president of Brian King and Mark Moore when they asked me perform in our chosen careers. I truly believe that if [email protected] to be a member of the AIMS Executive Committee. you live a kind life, are generous and supportive of However, I worked through it. I knew that this posi- others and give 110 percent in everything you do, I have a book at home called tion was going to challenge me, but I also knew that it you’ll be amazed about how much you can achieve. “Never Quit”. This book is a com- was a great opportunity. Now that it’s the end of my One last thought that I love from “Never Quit” is pilation of quotes by famous and term, taking on this responsibility has been one of the a quote by Jim Henson, the creator of the Muppets. not so famous people. The back most rewarding experiences of my career. Jim said, “My hope still is to leave the world a bit bet- cover describes it as “Thoughts to Gary Slade, publisher of Amusement Today and ter than when I got here.” This is how I look at the inspire the will to win.” I like books a long time AIMS board member, has been gracious position AIMS International has in the amusement in- like this. A lot of times I get caught enough to allow me to express my thoughts and dustry. Each year industry icons come together at the share portions of my life with the amusement industry AIMS Safety Seminar to impart their knowledge on up in day-to-day business, and I Gutknecht find that words of wisdom lift me through the AIMS News & Notes page. Writing these everything from detailed maintenance issues to op- up and help me look at the big picture instead of the articles has allowed me to share stories about my bi- erational procedures, and each year, the AIMS Safety sometimes monotonous details. cycling adventures, thoughts about my father, as well Seminars leaves our industry a bit better than it was I think one of the best quotes in this book is by as commentary about my previous job experience as the year before. I am proud to have been able to Betty Bender in which she said, “Anything I’ve ever a blackjack dealer in Las Vegas. Gary even printed the serve as president of AIMS International, and I thank done that ultimately was worthwhile initially scared article where I went off on a tangent about acronyms. each of you for allowing me to share a portion of my me to death.” Over the last two years I’ve gone In each, I’ve tried to draw correlations between what life with you. through every emotion you can imagine as President was going on in my life and how it relates to AIMS. It’s 2013 AIMS Safety Seminar a success; awards presented Kelly Bernish Ric Achard and Barry Schiable of what is meant to give back AIMS business consultant of Coulter & Associates, Jan to the industry. As a reliable [email protected] and Brian King of Recreation volunteer to the AIMS Safety Engineering and of course the Seminar, he not only would ORLANDO, Fla. — Janu- AIMS ambassadors. Nearly 150 typically teach as many hours ary 13 marked the kick off attendees sat for their certifica- as anyone else but after class- of the Amusement Industry tion testing thanks to the hard es ended you could count on Manufacturers and Suppliers work and organization of AIMS finding him in the host hotel (AIMS) 40th Certification Administrator, Jan lobby/bar sharing his wide Safety Sem- King. Volunteerism is certainly array of industry knowledge inar, this the hallmark of the AIMS Safety with the students. Often Doc year held Seminar and I wish we could in- was there to the late hours at the Dou- dividually thank each person for as attendees lined up to gain bletree at their contributions. his insight into biodynamics. SeaWorld “The overwhelming success Rick Beddow, center, vice president of operations, SeaWorld He never walked away from a in Orlando. of this year’s event is due, in no Orlando receives the Outstanding Partner Award from Kelly learning opportunity,” warmly With more Bernish small part, to the dedication of Bernish and AIMS President Mike Gutknecht of Ride Enter- recalls Jim Seay, AIMS board than 300 this industry’s best minds and of tainment Group. member and president of Pre- attendees from around the course the generous support of AT/MARLON SCOTT mier Rides. globe, this year was one of the our sponsors and the SeaWorld tional hours including 56 new wheels for amusement rides was This year we began in- best attended in recent years. Orlando who made hands-on classes and more than 100 in- recognized as AIMS Outstand- cluding vendor displays which Sponsors of this year’s event training for our students pos- dustry experienced instructors ing Manufacturer & Supplier. we will continue to expand in include Kumbak, The Amuse- sible,” said Mike Gutknecht, of thanks to the great work of Patty These awards are given based the coming years. Our stu- ment Engineers and 18 other Ride Entertainment Group and and her entire Education Com- upon feedback from their at- dents appreciated the op- industry leaders. AIMS president. mittee. tendee industry peers. portunity to interact with our Being my first year as an “I could not be more During this year’s seminar Len Morrissey was honored industry manufacturers and official AIMS staffer, it gave pleased with the AIMS Safety SeaWorld Orlando was award- as the AIMS Significant Con- suppliers. A special thank you me a great perspective for Seminar this year. The quality ed the AIMS Outstanding Part- tributor. Morrissey is a Stan- to Roger Berry of the Ralph how much work goes into of instruction and classes as well ner Award for their support of dards Development Director Alberts Company and Jim this event to make it so seam- as students was unsurpassed. the AIMS Safety Seminar, pro- for ASTM International and has Seay of Premier Rides for their less, the backbone of which is The whole event was fantastic viding instructors, students, si- worked tirelessly as the liaison support of this effort. AIMS administrative profes- and things could not have gone lent auction items and multiple for the standards effort for the I was honored to teach sional Holly Coston and her more smoothly!” said AIMS Edu- venues for hands-on instruction. amusement industry. again this year, leading a best team of volunteers including cation Director, Patty Beazley Also recognized this year A posthumous Founders practices class in Accident In- Ed Zakar of Six Flags Great from industry consulting group, was Best Student Russ Reyn- Award was given to Dr. Rich- vestigation. I had a great class Adventure, J.R. Lane and When Pigs Fly. olds of Busch Gardens Tam- ard Brown for excellence in and thanks to the James E Maegan Wallace of Maclan AIMS International, the pa Bay and Craig Fox of Fox Biodynamic Testing and Tech- Strates Shows, we were able Corp., Joanne Marchesani leading provider of education Systems for Best Instructor. nical Safety Development in to simulate a situation so that of Rye Playland, C. W. Cra- for the amusement industry, this Uremet Corporation, manu- the amusement park industry. all of my students could par- ven of Skyride Enterprise Inc., year offered over 300 instruc- facturer of urethane and nylon “’Doc’ represented the epitome ticipate in the process.

Space for this AIMS page is provided courtesy of Amusement Today as a corporate partner of AIMS Intl. Content is provided by AT & AIMS. Please direct comments to [email protected] 26 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 CONTINUING COVERAGE | SUPERSTORM SANDY Volunteers contribute to recovery in northern N.J. Storm-lashed Keansburg Amusement Park to return this month STORY: Dean Lamanna Special to Amusement Today KEANSBURG, N.J. — Superstorm Sandy swept through this borough’s bay- side playground, Keansburg Amusement Park and Run- Boardwalk Co., noting that 39 about 97 or 98 percent of those away Rapids Family Water- of Keansburg’s 41 rides were things. A couple ride vehicles park, with the force of a gi- impacted in some way. “Most were stolen along the way, ant battering ram — leaving of the damage was electrical in but most everything can be re- pieces of it scattered for many nature, but the water and sand placed.” blocks around. But the relent- also destroyed the floors of Hank admits to being less pounding dealt the prop- our bumper car building and “shocked” by the devastation erty by the record-breaking the Spook House, which goes and looting he observed at the hurricane wasn’t enough to back to the 1930s.” Both rides park the afternoon after the obliterate a 108-year history of needed heavy repairs. storm had passed. fun. Company chairman Bill “When I first arrived, Despite damages totaling Gehlhaus added that mov- there was still water in the as much as $4 million (not in- ing untold tons of sand and streets,” he said. “People were cluding losses suffered by ten- debris, and getting the park’s in rowboats, smashing open ants and vendors), Keansburg, infrastructure back into shape, the arcade games looking for according to brothers and were immediate priorities. money. After half an hour of Signs of major progress abound in the cleanup and repair third-generation proprietors “We had a lot of ramps and surveying the situation, I had of Keansburg Amusement Park, including rebuilt kiddie ride William and Henry Gehlhaus, walkways that were complete- to leave — I couldn’t take it. platforms and a new entrance ramp and pond installation for is coming back. And that’s ly ruined, so we’ve been re- The next day, I rounded up the swinging pirate ship ride, Pharoah’s Fury. The latter ride, great news for its approxi- building them,” he said. “We all my forces and we went to plus the park’s carousel and Chaos ride, were inspected and mately 300,000 annual visitors. took out all our ride motors work.” deemed structurally sound by their manufacturer, Chance. At least half of the prop- for inspection. New parts for In addition to scrutinizing COURTESY KEANSBURG AMUSEMENT PARK erty will be ready for Keans- various control panels have motors and controls, the Gehl- burg’s opening on Palm Sun- been purchased, too.” hauses have removed huge day, March 24, with the rest Keansburg’s recovery drifts of sand and power- becoming fully operational has come a long way since washed and repainted almost by Memorial Day. Although the days following the storm, every surface. The waterpark much of the amusement park when the Gehlhauses faced emerged in good structural was wrecked by six-foot-deep the difficult and depressing shape for the most part, with floodwaters that surged in task of rounding up ride ve- some electrical components from Raritan Bay on Octo- hicles, coin-op arcade games needing replacement. ber 29, the Gehlhauses have and other equipment the tidal Utterly irreplaceable are moved quickly to assess and surge had carried as far as half the display cases that con- repair the damage. a mile inland. tained all types of small park “Every ride and building “We had three search par- memorabilia, including pho- was in the flood’s path,” said ties out with pickup trucks tos and other decades-old Hank Gehlhaus, president and trailers getting all of items; they were washed out of the two parks’ umbrella our belongings,” Hank said. of Keansburg’s historic carou- company, Jersey Shore and “To date, we have recovered sel building and are presumed lost. The building itself, which dates to an 1899 exposition Morey’s Piers donates in Philadelphia, remains structurally sound; the 1996 Chance carousel it houses has to N.J. storm charities been refurbished after a severe beating from the surge. WILDWOOD, N.J. — To agement Agency (FEMA) to The Gehlhauses have thank local charities for their provide shelter at Morey’s been working with a crew of dedication to the community Resort’s Blue Palms Resort carpenters and a structural and their involvement with in Wildwood for families dis- engineer to ensure that new Superstorm Sandy relief ef- placed by Hurricane Sandy. construction is up to code, and forts, Morey’s Piers has do- In a joint statement, in early February, they inked nated a total of $15,000 to brothers Will and Jack Mo- a deal with Bob’s Space Rac- the Cape Atlantic Red Cross rey, second-generation pro- Celebrating Morey’s Piers’ donations to Superstorm San- ers to refresh and handle all and the Lunch with Lynch prietors of Morey’s Piers, dy relief efforts in January were (left to right) Will Morey, of Keansburg’s game opera- Foundation. Each group re- said: “Local relief agencies, Vicki and John Lynch of the Lunch with Lynch Foundation, tions. A number of the prop- ceived $7,500 in January. their volunteers and the city’s Yvette Soto and Carol Cohen of the American Red Cross — erty’s service buildings, ramps Cape Atlantic Red Cross governing officials all seam- Southern Shore, Jack Morey and Gordon Clark of Morey’s and walkways are being rein- and the Lunch with Lynch lessly united together to help Resorts. forced, and some structures Foundation were the lead numerous victims of Sandy. COURTESY MOREY’S PIERS are being rebuilt on higher organizations supporting We’re humbled by the gen- pilings for any future inunda- Morey’s Piers in working with erosity of our community and port local charities who are to improve the shore towns.” tion. the Federal Emergency Man- honored to be able to sup- out there every day working —Dean Lamanna 4See KEANSBURG, page 27 March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 27 CONTINUING COVERAGE | SUPERSTORM SANDY Keansburg goes Hollywood

KEANSBURG, N.J. — While Keansburg Amuse- ment Park prepares to unveil its newly spiffed up and rebuilt self later this month, its beloved incarnation of old remains preserved forever in movies and televi- sion shows. The traditional, intimately scaled environs of the fun spot have long appealed to Hollywood, Volunteers from American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) and making it a favorite filming the nonprofit Jersey Cares helped remove sand deposited location. five feet deep around Keansburg’s Wild Cat and Sea Ser- Among the produc- pent coasters. ACE members from as far as the Shenandoah tions that have rolled cam- Valley, some 200 miles away on the Virginia-West Virginia eras in the park are the border, joined the early-January effort. acclaimed 1996 feature COURTESY KEANSBURG AMUSEMENT PARK Big Night, the 2011 James Gandolfini dramaDown bigger, stronger berm,” Bill the Shore and a 2008 epi- KEANSBURG said, pointing out that Sandy Continued from page 26 sode of the reality TV se- bulldozed the previous dune, ries Jonas Brothers: Living Keanburg’s 2,500-foot which was more than 20 feet the Dream. Keansburg’s Kristen Wiig and Annette Bening star in Girl Most Likely, fishing pier, which was high. He learned how to oper- latest screen credit, Girl a feature comedy filmed partly at Keansburg Amusement stripped to its pilings by ate a Bobcat front-end loader Most Likely, a feature com- Park and set for national release July 19. Sandy’s violent surf, will to help remove the large vol- edy with Bridesmaids star COURTESY NICOLE RIVELLI, LIONSGATE/ROADSIDE be rebuilt to sturdier, more umes of sand spread across Kristen Wiig, filmed at the ATTRACTIONS storm-resistant standards and the property. park during the summer of boyfriend (Matt Dillon) at the adjacent to the waterpark. should be at least partly open While acknowledging that 2011 and is set for national Jersey shore. There, a crew “We mostly coordinated later this year. several major storms, includ- release July 19. of kooky characters provides their needs,” said Katharine “We’re taking this oppor- ing Hurricane Donna in 1960, Wiig plays Imogene, a a distinct contrast to Imo- Koehler, Keansburg’s manag- tunity to accelerate our origi- slammed Keansburg during once-promising New York gene’s more glamorous Man- er of marketing and advertis- nal 10-year plan of improve- the 20th century, Hank har- playwright who suffers a hattan existence. ing. “They told us Kristen did ments,” Bill said. “The two bored worries about the extra- crisis of confidence and a The filmmakers spent a not like to be approached, so parks will be better than ever turbulent weather pattern that broken relationship, which full day shooting at locations we left her alone.” when they reopen.” appears to have targeted the lands her back in the gam- throughout the amusement No matter. For park en- Meanwhile, the Gehlhaus- Northeast in recent years. bling-addicted graces of property, including a lem- thusiasts, Keansburg will be es are counting on the State “We’re used to having her mother (Annette Ben- onade stand, a crab stand, the real star of the show. of New Jersey and the Army hurricanes go up the coast,” ing) and her mom’s new a tattoo parlor and a house —Dean Lamanna Corps of Engineers, as well he said. “Very rarely, though, as the Hurricane Sandy sup- have we seen them actually plemental emergency fund- come inland — especially like ries me going forward because ing and hard, the Gehlhaus iconic, circa-1920s beer-and- ing bill signed by President this one. Most of us took pre- we can’t afford to take many brothers feel fortunate that grilled hot dog restaurant, the Obama in late January, to de- cautionary steps before Sandy more of these hits.” their families and homes far- Old Heidelberg Inn, for a doc- velop better protection for the arrived, but I don’t think any- Although coping with ther inland pulled through umentary. adjacent shoreline. one was really prepared for their park’s condition has Sandy unharmed. And they “It’s like a gift from God,” “We’d obviously like a what we got. It certainly wor- been alternately heartbreak- are grateful for the volunteer Hank said. “After seeing pic- assistance Keansburg Amuse- tures of the flooding here, the ment Park has received from filmmaker called with great its namesake community — a concern and asked, ‘What small, blue-collar borough for can we do to help?’” We had which the park serves as a top other projects to focus on, so I economic driver and employ- said, ‘We don’t have anybody er. The New Jersey Amuse- to make this restaurant fly.’” ment Association, Bank of She just felt it would be a great America, the non-profit orga- project for her crew to under- nization Jersey Cares and the take.” Work and filming at the Garden State chapter of Amer- eatery were to begin in Febru- ican Coaster Enthusiasts are ary. among the entities that have “A disaster can bring out contributed to the recovery. the worst in people, as we A surprise hand also has saw with the breaking open of been lent all the way from the arcade games, but it also Canada. Montreal-based inde- brings out the best,” Bill said. The park’s umbrella motorcycle ride and popular shish pendent filmmaker Ina Fich- Hank echoed his brother’s kebab stand were left in storm-tossed piles by the hurri- man, through her production sentiment. “Every bad thing cane’s six-foot tidal surge. Parts from the kiddie ride have company Intuitive Pictures, we’ve been through has been been salvaged, and the food stand has been rebuilt. has offered to fund the repair tempered by the good deeds COURTESY KEANSBURG AMUSEMENT PARK and restoration of the park’s of others.” 28 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013

NEW JERSEY AMUSEMENT ASSOCIATION SUPERSTORM SANDY Restore, Rebuild and Reopen

Show Your Love for the Jersey Shore Acting Governor Kim Guadagno unveils initiative to encourage Jersey Shore tourism Public-private partnership to promote The New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism and waiting for visitors,” said Lori Pepenella, state- shore area dining, accommodations, and the state’s shore tourism partners will use their wide chair of NJDMOs and destination marketing social media network, consisting of Facebook and director of the Southern Ocean County Chamber cultural and entertainment venues Twitter, to distribute news and information about of Commerce. special promotions offered by shore area attrac- Before Superstorm Sandy, New Jersey’s tour- TRENTON, N.J. — Acting New Jersey Gover- tions. New Jersey destination marketing organiza- ism industry had been on the rebound with tourists nor Kim Guadagno kicked off on Feb. 11 “Show tions (DMOs) will also post this information, along spending $38 billion on their visits to the Garden Your Love for the Jersey Shore,” a public-private with the “Show Your Love for the Jersey Shore” State in 2011. The new visitor expenditures were initiative designed to encourage the public to visit logo, on their websites. just shy of the all-time high of $39.5 billion reached and support restaurants, hotels, local businesses “Superstorm Sandy has caused damage and in 2007 and are a 7 percent increase over 2010 fig- and entertainment venues along the Jersey Shore destruction like we have never witnessed here in ures. for Valentine’s Day and beyond. New Jersey,” said U.S. Small Business Administra- In 2011, domestic visits to New Jersey jumped “Tourism is a critical economic engine for New tion’s New Jersey District Director Al Titone. “This 14.6 percent, representing an increase in domestic Jersey, particularly along our shore. It is an industry initiative is a reminder to all of us that small busi- trip volume from roughly 68 million visitors in 2010 that contributes significantly to the health of our ness owners along the Jersey Shore are resilient, to 80 million visitors in 2011. Out-of-state visitors, communities by creating jobs and bringing reve- are open for business, and need our support. This which drive New Jersey tourism revenue, account- nue into our shore towns,” said Acting Governor is a great opportunity to get behind local mer- ed for 64 percent of all tourism revenue, followed Guadagno. “I encourage residents and visitors to chants who are looking to get back on track.” by resident/in-state (25 percent), and international ‘Show Your Love for the Jersey Shore’ by support- “The New Jersey Destination Marketing Orga- visitors (9 percent). ing local shore area businesses through Valentine’s nizations support positive initiatives that promote Equally important, tourism-related employ- Day and the months ahead. Through this initiative, the state to its visitors. The ‘Show Your Love’ ini- ment began to recover in 2011, directly supporting we will continue to demonstrate support for local tiative allows the business community along the 312,000 jobs and $9.56 billion in wages and sala- businesses recovering from Sandy and show that shore area to shine. By partnering with federal and ries last year. When combined with indirect and in- the Jersey Shore is still a great place to have fun state agencies, I am hopeful the word will continue duced jobs, the total climbs to 486,000, or nearly and create memories.” to spread quickly that the shore we all love is ready 10 percent of all New Jersey jobs. Wildwood, New Jersey officials announce no beach fees in 2013 Shared Services established as an alternative solution WILDWOOD, N.J. — ment and Development common goals,” said Mayor The board of commission- Authority (GWTIDA). Troiano. “These goals in- ers of the City of Wildwood “There are always a clude the preservation of pulled the beach fee refer- number of possible ap- tourism — the life blood of endum and announced on proaches when it comes to the island — and unifying Feb. 14 at the Wildwood addressing budget issues. and strengthening our mu- Commissioners meeting Shared Services is a viable nicipalities’ budget issues that they will enter into se- and financial solution that and shortages,” he added. rious discussions on the could work for everyone,” The three communi- implementation of Shared said Commissioner Byron. ties have agreed to form a Services with the municipal- With the Shared Services Shared Service Committee, ities of Wildwood Crest and solution, the three munici- to include members or offi- North Wildwood as an al- palities would pool their ef- cials from each municipality ternative solution to beach forts and assets and share and GWTIDA to work out fees. various services, including, and oversee the details on The Shared Services so- but not limited to, beach a Shared Services Plan for City officials in the municipalities of Wildwood, North lution is a collective effort maintenance, lifeguarding, maximum benefit to all. Wildwood and Wildwood Crest have dropped beach fees by the island’s three munici- fire and police. “We strongly believe for the 2013 tourism season as a way to help lure tour- palities, Wildwood, North “We are excited and that this Shared Services so- ists back to the popular Jersey Shore. Last year a study Wildwood and Wildwood thrilled to be collaborating lution is a win-win for every- by the NJAA determined that Jersey Shore tourism is the Crest, and is with the sup- with the other municipali- one involved,” added Com- foundation of the state’s $38 billion leisure and hospitality industry, with 312,000 people employed by Jersey Shore port of the Greater Wild- ties on this solution. We are missioner Leonetti. tourism. woods Tourism Improve- all working together for •www.WildwoodsNJ.com AT FILE PHOTO

Space for this NJAA Superstorm Sandy page is provided courtesy of Amusement Today as a corporate partner with the NJAA. Please direct comments to: [email protected] March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 29

Region As of Change from MARKETWATCH (U.S.) 02/14/13 year ago East Coast $4.002 $0.059 Prices Prices 52 Weeks Midwest $3.834 $0.088 RIDING THE Company One Month Ago 02/14/13 High Low MARKET Gulf Coast $3.824 $0.047 Cedar Fair L.P. $36.65 $38.00 $39.55 $25.00 Mountain $3.661 -$0.162 MGM Mirage $12.96 $13.29 $14.94 $8.83 West Coast $3.900 -$0.045

Six Flags Ent. Corp. $62.16 $65.00 $65.50 $43.13 DIESEL PRICES California $4.063 -$0.053 CBS Corp. $40.95 $42.94 $43.47 $28.88 TOP 7 MOST TRADED On 02/14/13 $1 USD = Walt Disney Co. $52.41 $54.88 $55.50 $40.87 CURRENCIES 0.7430 EURO Apollo Global Mgt. LLC $20.05 $22.27 $23.95 $10.42 0.6402 GBP (British Pound) Blackstone Group $17.15 $18.58 $19.25 $11.12 88.34 JPY (Japanese Yen) Village Roadshow $4.22 $4.54 $4.70 $2.85 0.9173 CHF (Swiss Franc) 0.9671 AUD (Australian Dollar) NBC Universal $21.30 $23.41 $23.48 $18.02 CURRENCY 1.00229 CAD (Canadian Dollar)

PEOPLE WATCH Withers named vice chairman of ASTM one of the world’s leading providers of family travel and catering professionals. He will focus on building pres- Michael R. Withers, vice president of ride engineer- leisure experiences to better position the organization ence and awareness of the resort’s groups and meetings ing for Walt Disney Imagineering in Glendale, Calif., has for growth. capabilities within the region. been elected to serve a two-year term as vice chairman Effective Feb. 1, Meg Crofton will fully assume her With 23 years of experience in the hospitality indus- of the ASTM International board of directors. global role as president, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts try, Pena is a leader in the Dallas-Fort Worth area in ho- At Walt Disney Imagineering, Withers has respon- Operations, U.S. and France — a position she has held tel sales and tourism, earning his CTA in 2012. Most re- sibility for amusement ride design and engineering. In since July 2011 — while concurrently serving as presi- cently, Pena served as an area sales leader with Marriott addition, he is currently serving as project manager for dent of Walt Disney World. With Crofton’s transition International where he provided strategic sales direction the Walt Disney Imagineering Global Design for Safety complete, George A. Kalogridis is named president of for 14 hotels and over 300 local accounts. Initiative within the Walt Disney Theme Parks and Re- the Walt Disney World Resort, and Michael Colglazier is sorts Segment. named president of the Disneyland Resort. Both Kalogri- Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas announces sales team An ASTM International member since 2000, Withers dis’ and Colglazier’s roles also are effective Feb. 1. Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas has hired Derek Eige and is vice chairman of Subcommittee F24.24 on Design and “With all that we currently have in flight across our Nick Murray as sales executives. The pair’s deep South- Manufacture, a part of Committee F24 on Amusement resort destinations in the U.S. and France, the time is ern Nevada roots and marketing and sales savvy are Rides and Devices. He is an active member of several right to move forward with this leadership transition,” proving invaluable in managing the group sales and F24 subcommittees, and he represents ASTM on the said Staggs. “This group of Disney veterans has the sponsorship effort for the 41-acre, $50 million waterpark European Technical Committee CEN/TC 152, which is knowledge and expertise needed to continue delivering opening Memorial Day weekend. responsible for EN 13814, Fairground and Amusement on our legacy of creating unforgettable experiences that Eige was vice president of sales for the Las Vegas Park Machinery and Structures – Safety, the European our guests have come to know and expect.” Locos of the United Football League. He began working standard on amusement park safety. in Las Vegas in 1997 as an account executive for both Schlitterbahn announces new hire, move the then-Las Vegas Stars minor league baseball team KeyLime Cove employee receives award Winter Prosapio has been named director of Cor- and Las Vegas Thunder hockey team. Anthony “T.J.” Pollack, the director of aquatics at porate Communications and Government Relations In addition to this sales position, Murray is a director KeyLime Cove, Gurnee, Ill., has been distinguished as for Schlitterbahn Waterparks. Most recently the senior at Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas investor SPB Capital Partners, the Department-Division Head Employee of the Year by vice president of Communications with the Texas Credit a Las Vegas-based private equity firm, where he plies his the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association’s (IHLA) state Union League, Prosapio was part of the opening team skill in financial analysis and strategy, investor relations “Stars of the Industry” awards. for Fiesta Texas, where she worked in public relations. and government relations, and corporate adherence. Pollack was honored during the statewide competi- She brings over 25 years of experience to her new role tion at the 24th Annual IHLA Membership Meeting and including expertise in media relations, crisis communica- Tim Timco joins S&S team State Stars of the Industry Luncheon held in Chicago. tions, political affairs, and strategic communications. S&S/Sansei Technology, Inc. announced that Tim Nearly 800 nominations were submitted. Tara Henry has been named manager of Social Me- Timco has joined their team as the director of business “This past October T.J. was named a regional win- dia Communications for Schlitterbahn Waterparks. development. Tim has over 30 years experience in the ner, and I was thrilled to see him recognized at the state Tara has worked in operations at Schlitterbahn for amusement industry, with 14 of those years in an execu- level last month,” said Dale McFarland, general manager four years, and has a wide range of experience. Tara will tive management position. Most recently he has been of KeyLime Cove. “This is the only program in the state be managing the company’s social media presence and providing business development management services that recognizes employees in the hospitality industry. assisting with ongoing communications initiatives. to a number of manufacturers within the industry as an We are truly fortunate to have someone of TJ’s caliber independent contractor, this after serving 28 years as a overseeing our aquatics team and indoor waterpark.” GWL Grapevine Resort adds to team senior executive in the admissions and ticketing busi- Great Wolf Resorts, Inc., has announced Andrew ness. Walt Disney Parks announces promotions Pena as director of sales and catering of Great Wolf Timco has also been heavily involved with IAAPA, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Tom Lodge at the company’s resort in Grapevine, Texas. recently serving on its board of directors, as well as the Staggs has announced key leadership changes across Pena is responsible for leading the Group Sales divi- chair of the Manufacturers and Suppliers Committee. sion of the resort and its full service team of sales and For breaking news, videos and more, visit us at:

SLA amusementtoday com Continued from page 41 30 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 June Hardin, Wapello Fabrication founder, dies at 76 WAPELLO, Iowa — Morning Sun and gradu- tions. She was a wonderful the amusement industry June Marie Hardin, 76, of ated from Wapello High homemaker and enjoyed will be sorely missed. Wapello, Iowa died January School in 1954. She attended her flower and vegetable Her family includes her 19, 2013, at the University Gehl Institute in Minneapo- gardens. husband, Don; four sons, of Iowa Hospitals & Clin- lis where she studied air- “AIMS has lost one of Randy & Kris Hardin of ics. The daughter of Ralph line communications. She it’s most dedicated and be- Iowa City, Kevin & Patty “Bill” and Ethel Marie Hes- worked at the Farm Bureau loved volunteers. June Har- Hardin of Wapello, Gordon ler Wilson, she was born on Insurance in Wapello and din, known to all simply & Lisa Hardin of Wapello December 4, 1936, in Iowa then spent several years as Miss June, was a former and Don & Annette Hardin City. She married Don Har- raising her four boys. She board member of AIMS, of Wapello; 10 grandchil- din on July 29, 1955, in Wa- then worked for nine years and an education and plan- dren; 10 great-grandchil- pello. at IRC in Burlington before ning committee volunteer dren; a sister, Joyce & Mi- June attended school in working as a receptionist June Hardin was active with for many years. Her unstop- chael Jackson of Davenport; AIMS Intl, having served and secretary for Scott & pable sense of volunteerism and her stepfather, Arturo many years on its board of Company in Wapello. In directors to AIMS will be fondly re- Padilla of Wapello. She was 1973, she purchased that membered as part of the preceded in death by her business which became Wa- the Kiwanis Club, Wapello AIMS legacy,” said Mike parents and an infant sister, pello Fabrications. Through Development Corporation Gutknecht, AIMS presi- Julie. these last 40 years they and Wapello Community dent, “and I know I speak The funeral ceremony were at the beginning edge Health. She helped devel- for all of our members as for June Hardin was held of the pillow entertainment op the Hardin Fun Times we send our deepest sym- at 10:30 a.m. on January 23, construction and remain as kiddy rides etc., and she pathy to her loved ones.” 2013, at the United Meth- one of the last two that con- served on the board of di- “Simply put, she was loved odist Church in Wapello, tinue in the U.S. rectors for the Amusement by all,” added AIMS Educa- with Rev. Pam Kranzler June was an active mem- Industry Manufacturer’s tion Director, Patty Beazley officiating. Burial was at ber of the United Methodist and Suppliers International who worked with her for the Edwards Cemetery in (AIMS) and the American A tribute to June Hardin was Church in Wapello having many years at the annual Oakville followed by a fel- Society for Testing and Ma- on display in the Wapello served on several commit- AIMS Safety Seminar. As lowship lunch at the United booth during the 2013 IISF tees and boards along with terials (ASTM) along with a pioneer in the inflatable Methodist Church Fellow- Gibtown show. the UMW and the church being a member of various industry, her keen sense of ship Hall in Wapello. AT/GARY SLADE choir. She was a member of other amusement organiza- humor and dedication to

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50 1428 Maple Ave. • Hamilton, OH 45011 • 513.737.9012 • www.TheBigIdeaPeople.com March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 31 Cliff Hammond, Uncle Cliff’s Amusement Park, dies at 97 ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. married Zella Mae Ferguson — ‘Uncle’ Cliff Hammond, and moved back to Illinois to ‘Uncle’ Cliff Hammond remembered... founder of New Mexico’s continue his experiences in Cliff’s Amusement Park, farming. “I’ve known Cliff since he first got his start. My late hus- passed away from natural Over the next several ban Paul had heard he wanted to move the park in New causes on January 29, 2013. He years, Cliff and Zella and Mexico but needed help in getting some additional rides. was 97. their two children, Carl and Paul pulled some of his air base buddies together and they Born Carlis Clifford Linda, enjoyed a variety of all chipped in and bought rides on a revenue share. James Hammond on March 9, entrepreneurial ventures from Dean, Joyland Park, provided a Roll-O-Plane, George McKinney 1915 in Clark County near restaurant management in (who would later operate Funland Park in Wichita Falls, Texas) Martinsville, Illinois, he per- Kansas to homesteading in provided a Tilt-A-Whirl and Paul’s air base friend Harry Bull- severed in a farmer family of Idaho. He moved his fam- ock purchased a Ferris Wheel. Paul helped all three men 10, growing up in poverty. He ily to Albuquerque on his find the used rides and Paul went to New Mexico to help excelled in academics, agricul- 43rd birthday to begin a new set the rides up for Cliff. I think it really made a difference in ture and sports in high school. career as an air traffic con- the park’s early success. After two or three years, Cliff and In 1933, during the height troller. During that time he Zella purchased the rides from each, as the park was now of the Great Depression, would take his kids to a small growing and making money.” he joined the Civilian Cliff Hammond amusement park at the N.M. “I also remember all of us small park owners being in Conservation Corps (CCC), Toward the end of the depres- state fairgrounds which gave Europe in the early 70’s on a trip to Octoberfest and the the FDR program designed to sion, he owned and operated him the idea of developing Schwarzkopf factory. Our group all thought it was funny get Americans back to work a grocery and liquor store in his own facility since the pres- when Cliff told the Germans that he had the only park in again. California. In 1941, he joined sure of air traffic and working New Mexico. We knew, at the time New Mexico could only It was during this time the war effort by enlisting in for someone else was not that support one park! It was a fun time with good friends.” that Cliff “rode the trains” the Army Air Corps and was inspiring to him. —Aletha Roads, Wonderland Park, Amarillo, Texas throughout the country, trained as an air traffic control- It was then, in 1959, that • looking for work and food. ler. On September 16, 1942, he Uncle Cliff’s Kiddyland was “I first met Cliff in 1978. Paul Roads at Wonderland Park born at 7600 Lomas N.E. with knew Cliff real well and had talked to him about adding a go kart track, small food a SkyGlider. Paul said I needed to go see Cliff. So I made stand and a few kiddie rides. It the call and Cliff agreed to meet and said he would pick thrived there until forced off by me up at the airport. After arriving, I couldn’t find him, so I city officials in 1961, at which grabbed my bags and headed outside to the curb pickup. time the park moved to join There he was, waving at me. He was dressed in a pair of cov- forces with Little Beaver Town eralls and driving a really old dented pickup truck that must in Tijeras Canyon at the east- have been used in the park as it had paint and who knows ern limits of town. Realizing what else all over it. Cliff drove me to the park and we talked that this could be a losing about the positioning of the ride. That evening I met his wife proposition, Cliff moved one Zella over dinner, and soon after Cliff told me to go ahead last time to the northern edge and start on the ride. I didn’t have a price or a contract to of the city at 5301 San Mateo, him for several more weeks, but we had a handshake deal. where he leased property from That was 1978 and the ride opened in 1979. That’s the way the Yonemoto family until he things were done back then, it was a really fun time for this was able to purchase. There, industry.” the park began to grow from “I have tremendous respect for Cliff Hammond. It was six to 15 acres, to become such a pleasue to deal with him. He was always kind and the largest and most attend- professional and someone you were honored not only to ed park in New Mexico. For do business with but to call a friend. I will miss him greatly.” Above, Cliff and Zella Hammond founded Cliff’s Amusement more than 53 years, having —Jerry Pendleton, Park in Albuquerque, N.M. as seen in this 1959 first year entertained millions of people, Skytrans Mfg., LLC, Contoocook, N.H. photo. Three rides can be spotted that were added on Cliff’s Amusement Park has • a revenue share to complete the new park. They are the continued on the very same “The association of Cliff, the Deans [Joyland Park] and Roll-O-Plane, Tilt-A-Whirl and Eli Ferris Wheel. Below, the principles Cliff established at the Roads [Wonderland Park] generated an interest and couple stand in front of the park’s ever popular Galaxi roller the beginning — safety, clean- passion of the amusement industry among these families. coaster. They were married 70 years. liness and courteousness. Cliff was always working hard to improve his Cliff’s Kid- COURTESY NRCMA/CLIFFS ARCHIVES Hammond was featured dieland and later Uncle Cliff’s park. He offered Jimmy Dean in a recent broadcast of the the opportunity to put a ride in at Cliff’s as a revenue share PBS series, The American in an effort to help Cliff’s grow and help give Jimmy Dean a Experience. start in the amusement industry. I remember the times Mary Clifford Hammond is sur- Dean and Linda Hammond would ride the rides together at vived by his wife of 70 years, Cliff’s. This helped feed our interest in the amusement park Zella; two children, Carl industry. Because of Cliff’s hard work and high standards, Hammond and wife, Susie he helped lay the groundwork for the family owned amuse- of Santiago, Chili and Linda ment industry in this part of the country.” Hays and husband, Gary; —Katie Dean, Joyland Park, Lubbock, Texas four grandchildren; six great- • grandchildren; and three “I only met Cliff Hammond one time during an interview greatgreat-grandchildren. we did to document the park’s history for the National Roll- The family suggests that er Coaster Museum’s archives. From that interview, I could donations may be made in Mr. tell he was a great man and a man you would want as your Hammond’s memory to the friend. Cliff Hammond, Jimmy Dean and Paul Roads are all Manzano Del Sol — Resident true legends in our industry as they relied on each other for Endowment Fund, 5201 Roma their very survival in those early years.” N.E. Albuquerque, N.M. —Gary Slade, Amusement Today, Arlington, Texas 87108. 32 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 33 MIDWAY CARNIVALS STATE FAIRS REVENUE SUPPLIERS 45th Annual IISF Trade Show offers wide mix to attendees STORY: Pam Sherborne this year compared to last, but [email protected] those that were there, were GIBSONTON, Fla. — The there to look and to shop and 45th Annual IISF Trade Show buy. and Extravaganza gave at- The extravaganza also tendees just what they want- provides those associated with ed this year when it ran from the outdoor mobile industry a Feb. 5-9, Gibsonton, Fla. place to gather, socialize, raise money and do business before hitting the road this year. There is nightly entertainment on the club grounds. The IISM, the museum fund raising arm of the association, raised over $18,000 from the raffle and live auction. There were also educa- There were ample ex- tional sessions during the Albert Frieden, Battech Entertainment LLC, Rick D’Aprile, left, and Gene Berger, Allied hibitors on the grounds of the week. Salem, Ore., exhibited his new motorcycle Specialty Insurance, Treasure Island, Fla., International Independent The following are com- ride, Hog Rally, at the Gibtown show this said the Gibtown show was going well for Showmen’s Association club. ments and company infor- year. ALL PHOTOS: AT / PAM SHERBORNE them. They were seeing clients and making And, exhibitors brought a mation from some of the ex- sure they had everything they needed. hibitors on hand at this year’s variety of products along to most of the projects. to P.B.J. Happee Days Shows. Dennis Bartosik said the show. display including plush, nov- The company’s services IISF show had been pretty elty merchandise, rides, food include wrap design and in- Bob’s Space Racers, good for Denny’s Electronics, Amusement Wraps trailers, food products, light- stallation, painting, theme Daytona Beach, Fla. an LED lighting specialty and Coal Grove, Ohio ing and sound systems, wheel design, and a full service sign Always busy, Bob’s Space games manufacturers. Bar- Amusement Wraps was and tire products, tents and department. Racer’s outdoor booth space tosik said there didn’t seem on hand showing off some of tarps, and others. This was the fourth year stayed that way this year. to be a huge quantity of at- the company’s amusement And, the consensus of Amusement Wraps has exhib- Company founder Bob Cas- tendees, but those that were wrap designs. Chuck Wheeler most of the exhibitors was ited at the IISF show. sata was on hand for the show, there, were looking and ready heads up the company and that there might not have meeting and greeting. Cassata to buy. handles the art direction on been quite as many attendees Battech Entertainment LLC is retired from day to day op- Salem, Ore. eration and now lives in West Eli Bridge Co. Albert Frieden exhibited Palm Beach, Fla. Jacksonville, Ill. his new motorcycle ride, Hog He has turned over daily Patty Sullivan of this fam- Rally, at the Gibtown show operations to his family mem- ily-owned 100-year-old com- this year. Each motorcycle can bers. pany said business has been seat up to four with two chil- The company exhibited its good. Not only has she been dren on the cycle and an adult Water Gun Fun, a Whopper working closely with Scheels and smaller child in the side- Water and a fish pond game. All Sports stores by supplying car. The first ride, still in pro- wheels, she has also been busy duction, will go to P.B.J. Hap- Dalton Kid Rides in a variety of metal work. For pee Days Shows. It is expected Foley, Mo. example, over the last year Eli to be delivered in May. Kevin Dalton delivered Bridge has manufactured met- Frieden showed that the the tractor ride he exhibited al pallets, and done repairs to motorcycle can actually do at Gibtown to Roger Wadkins, truck and trailers, recreational a wheelie when a handle is Sherwood Amusements, after vehicles, and an antique trac- turned. the show. tor. The lighting package for Business has been going The company has done a Dennis Bartosik, left, Denny’s Electronics, Nokomis, Fla., the ride is being done by Den- well, said Dalton. trellis with wheel ornaments exhibited his company’s LED lighting at the IISF trade show ny’s Electronics. and custom ornamental rail- this year. With him here, are Andrew Preston, center, and Frieden also exhibited his Denny’s Electronics ings. The company’s relation- John Warrington. Zero Gravity, which also went Nokomis, Fla. 4See IISF, page 34 Factory wholesale pricing! • Over 100 designs available! • Made in the USA

Toll Free: (800) 395-9980 • email: [email protected] • www.sippersbydesign.com 34 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 the standard design, which IISF was at the show. Continued from page 33 “The train can run on ship with the large Scheels one engine, but there are two store and its various locations there,” Ribot said. “We have has been great. Store officials made access to the engines have installed the wheels very easy.” within the atrium areas of In fact, the company has their stores. She started work- also created easy access to ing with the Scheels in 2004 the control panel for the LED and is scheduled to supply lighting system and the sound two more wheels to that com- system. There are also three pany by 2014. speeds. Ribot was also giving in- Fabbri Amusements formation on some of the com- Dalton Kid Rides, Foley, Mo., exhibited its Carlo and Cindy Guglielmi, Ital International, Arlington, Texas pany’s other rides including tractor ride at the IISF trade show this year. Nashville, Tenn., were having a good show Jeff Miller was joined by their carousel and swing car- Here are, from left, Kevin Dalton, Matthew and have had a good run of selling rides. his father, Jim Miller, in his ousel. Kleeschulte, and Russell Dalton, all with the They stayed busy at the 2013 IISF Trade booth this year at the IISF Dalton Kid Rides. Show and Extravaganza. show. Jim Miller said he Gold Star Manufacturing port and there it sat for two Waldameer Park in Erie, Pa. experiences 3.5 G. hadn’t been to the Gibtown (Formerly Sellner Staging) weeks.” That ride will open for the But, there were many oth- show for 20 years. It was obvi- Faribault, Minn. That was when Hurri- 2013 season. ers. The S&S Frog Hopper at ous his son enjoyed the visit. Troy Krenske exhibited cane Sandy ravaged that area the show was going to Alpine Jeff Miller said the Vortex his Puppy Spin Ride at the of the coast and there weren’t Maclan Corporation Amusements. Soled also had is still doing very well for him. Gibsonton show. Krenske said any trucks making deliver- Lakeland, Fla. one going to Murray Brothers. He has sold five of them in the his puppies fit on a Sellner ies. When the ride, still in its Maclan’s brother and sis- The SBF/Visa Flying last four years. He delivered base, which he refurbishes, if crates, was finally delivered, ter duo of J.R. Lane and Mae- School at the show was going one to Steel Pier amusement need be, and fits the new pup- workers opened the crates. gan Wallace were on hand at to Beauce Carnival. Soled had park, Atlantic City, N.J., not pies onto the ride. “When they opened them, the IISF show this year exhibit- another going to Helm & Sons. long before Hurricane Sandy The ride fits onto a 26-foot water just poured out,” he ing the company’s wide range The Groovy Bus exhibited hit. trailer. said. “The ride had been sit- of products. was going to Luehrs’ Ideal “It survived the hurri- Krenske has partnered ting in salt water for two Maclan has been supply- Rides. But, in line for another cane,” he said, “unscathed.” with Jim Hermel and Mike weeks.” ing the amusement industry were World’s Finest Shows Featherston, Goldstar Amuse- So, back it went to the fac- with high quality urethane and Talley Amusements. Falgas Amusement Rides ments, in Gold Star Manufac- tory. The goal was to get it wheels and products since Soled brought two rides, (based in Spain, with an turing. back before the 2013 season 1975. This is the fourth year SBF/Visa Dog’s Ride and Fly- office in Miami, Fla.) Gold Star, which began started. the family-owned company ing Elephant, to the show that Christian Ribot, vice manufacturing mobile stages, Other projects Guglielmi has been coming to the show. hadn’t already been commit- president of sales, Falgas, a portable stages and staging ac- has been working on include Lane said business was ted. However, when Amuse- manufacturer of kiddie and cessories for Seller, continues a Technical Park Street Fight- going well at the show. ment Today spoke with Soled, non-major rides, was manning with this side of the business. er Revolution to a U.S. park. one of those, the Dog’s Ride the company’s booth at the Guglielmi said an announce- Peek-A-Boo Toys had already been sold. It was Gibtown event showing the Ital International LLC ment by the park would come Pennsauken, N.J. going to Campbell Amuse- new Western Train. The train, Nashville, Tenn. at some point so he declined to Barry Lederman, vice ments. with a seating capacity of 20, Carlo Guglielmi has been disclose the park name. president of sales, for this has made several upgrades busy. For one thing, he had to “But, it will be the first one New Jersey plush company, Wisdom Rides that Ribot feels makes it very arrange to have a wet Bertaz- in the U.S.,” he said. “It should felt traffic was down some- Merino, Colo. desirable. Some of those up- zon Swing Carousel sent from arrive in the U.S. at the end of what, but those on the floor Wisdom Rides had prom- grades include the anti-de- its original destination, Steel March.” were the authorized buyers ised to exhibit three rides at railment system and the new Pier, Atlantic City, N.J., back He has also sold a Techni- and were buying. Gibtown and that is exactly rail system where there are no to the Bertazzon plant in Italy. cal Park Heavy Rotation ride Lederman said the com- what the company did. The electrical cords running from “The carousel was going to another U.S. park. pany’s line always produces company brought its Jungle car to car. to Steel Pier,” Guglielmi said. And, he sold a brand new a great response from buyers. Twist, Monster Truck and the There are two engines in “It had been delivered to the Bertazzon Music Express to Two of the top items this year Rampage. Mai Wisdom had were the Panda Bear and the described the Rampage as “a donut. new old ride.” Wisdom redesigned it and Rides 4-U put new seats on it. New LED Somerville, N.J. lighting illuminated it and the Len Soled was busy sell- company installed new over ing, selling, selling at Gibtown the shoulder restraints. The this year. He exhibited quite a Rampage stands 55 feet high few rides. The most eye catch- and seats 32 in 16 seats. ing ones were the two KMG Speeds, Mach I and Mach III Zamperla because of their height. The Boonton, N.J. Mach I was being delivered to Roman Rosario felt the Ray Cammack Shows and the IISF show was a little slow this Mach III was going to North year compared to last year, American Midway Entertain- but, like other exhibitors, also ment. felt that attendees that were Brother and sister duo Maegan Wallace and Jim Miller, left, and Jeff Miller, Fabbri The KMG Speed is about there were ready to buy. J.R. Lane, Maclan Corporation, Lakeland, Amusements, Arlington, Texas, attended this 131 feet tall (40 meters) with On exhibit at the Zamper- Fla., were displaying their company’s wide year’s IISF trade show. Father and son spent two gondolas for four persons la booth was a Happy Swing range of products at the IISF trade show. the time catching up with each other and each. The arm revolves at 13 and a Lolly Swing. They said business was very good. visiting with others. rpm, in which each passenger March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 35

The OABA presented the IISM Corp. the sum of $5,000, the first of five such donations the association has committed to the museum project the International Independent Showmen’s Association started several years ago. The OABA is finally supporting the museum through a partnership with the museum board so that the OABA may house its Hall of Fame and Pio- neer awards. From left are: Larry Nieukirk, IISA past president; Tom Gaylin, OABA third vice chair; Tom Arnold, IISA past president and museum director; IvanFrederiksen Arnold, IISF; 1/7x3 Bob b/wJohnson, 3/14/02 11:22 AM Page 1 OABA president; Jeanne McDonagh, OABA 2012 chair and trustee; Michael Wood, OABA second vice chair; Doc Rivera, IISM curator; and Dan Kroeger, OABA treasurer. AT/PAM SHERBORNE

OABA awards finally “The #1 Leading Slide Manufacturer in America” FREDERIKSEN “World’s Largest 5 Lane, One Trailer Slide - 108 Ft.” INDUSTRIES, INC. 5212 St. Paul St. have a permanent home • Financing and Leasing Available • Trades Considered Tampa, Florida 33619 Display space will be provided in the • Order Slide Bags or “New Rain” Bags (813) 628-4545 • 6 New Slides In Stock FAX (813) 621-3679 Museum of the American Carnival • Have 20 Used Rides www.funslide.com • 90 Ft. Fiberglass Slide GIBSONTON, Fla. — The International Independent • 65 Ft. Fiberglass Slide Showmen’s Association (IISA) fundraising arm for the Mu- seum of the American Carnival, the IISM Corp., has entered into an agreement with the Outdoor Amusement Business As- sociation (OABA) to permanently house OABA’s Hall of Fame and Pioneer Award. The agreement, announced during the IISA Annual Trade Show and Extravaganza, held Feb. 4-9, at the club grounds in Gibsonton, Fla., allows the OABA to take over a 20-foot-by-20- foot space on the second floor at the front, southwest corner of the museum. The museum has been an on-going project undertaken by the IISA several years ago. It is located across the street from the club grounds. Bob Johnson, OABA president, said they have made a financial commitment to the IISA for the space. “Our pledge is $25,000, initially, to be spread out over the next five years,” he said. He expects OABA’s exhibits to incorporate technology to give the information about the Hall of Fame award recipients The Scrambler and the Pioneer Award recipients. There most likely will be visual as well as audio information. Tom Gaylin, OABA third vice chair, said that they didn’t Seats remain on ride for transport have a home for the Hall of Fame and Pioneer awards. “About a year and half ago, we started on this idea,” Gay- Fast Set-up and Tear-down lin said. “We had to first sell it to our board. Then, we went to 36-Passenger Capacity the IISA.” Simultaneous Loading In October, 2012, the OABA drafted a proposal to the museum’s board of directors. During mid-January, Mike Wood, Fan Light Package Mike Lauther and Jeanne McDonagh of the OABA struck a Mast Covers deal. The OABA plans to raise the money to support the project. Sweep Panels The IISA was able to raise $18,000 during the Extrava- 28-Foot Trailer ganza through a raffle and live auction at the 2013 event. The museum has sustained several large donations over the past few years including one of $1.1 million from Jim Frederiksen, 1-800-274-0211 fax 217-479-0103 Frederiksen Industries. [email protected] elibridge.com —Pam Sherborne 36 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 OABA annual meeting presents Hall of Fame and Pioneer awards STORY: Pam Sherborne with a degree in Psychology. Wallendas, at Ocean Beach. [email protected] He met Alexandra Allman He landed a job at the TAMPA, Fla. — There during a college spring break Lordly and Dame talent agen- were some surprises and a and they married in Febru- cy and started their outdoor lot of fun and laughter at ary1966. entertainment department, this year’s annual Outdoor Johnson was hired by the from scratch. Amusement Business Asso- Bendix Corporation, Teter- One of their customers ciation (OABA) membership boro, N.J., in a management was the Big E in Springfield, meeting and dinner. training position, then moved Massachusetts. In a Mardi Gras theme, the on as personnel supervisor at In 1973, McCary took a event was held at the Embassy Universal Manufacturing Cor- position at the Big E as ex- Suites Tampa. poration. In 1973, he was hired ecutive assistant to manager During the event, food Mike Featherston, right, Gold Star Amusements became the by the Addressograph-Mul- Bill Wynne. He left briefly to and drink, there was quite 2013 chairman of the OABA during the Feb. 8 annual meet- tigraph Corporation. He was become the manager of the a show for attendees. They ing in Tampa. Here is Featherston with his wife, Connie, and transferred to Illinois, then Cumberland County Civic found out who received the Pi- Bill Johnson, A Fantasy Amusement Co. later was promoted to corpo- Center, Portland, Maine. But oneer Award and the two Hall AT/SUE NICHOLS rate director of personnel and then returned in 1986 as man- of Fame awards. They also pilots, which led him to build his dad would travel almost moved to Los Angeles. ager elect under George Jones. were able to hear from their the Whiffle Hen, a training air- constantly, going from carni- In 1979, a search firm con- He took over as president and 2013 chairman and found out craft that used only two gal- val to carnival and fair to fair. tacted Johnson to become in CEO of the Big E in 1991. He which young people received lons of fuel per hour. During the summer months, charge of human resources of retired from there in June 2012. association scholarships. Lee Eyerly also patented father and son would sell Six Flags Corp. Wayne McCary is in the In addition, one OABA the Orientator, a flight simu- rides, check out equipment, He was there until 1992 hall of fame at three other or- scholarship recipient was an- lator that looked like a small and adjust clutches on the Oc- at which time he resigned ganizations: the IAFE, the nounced. That was for the airplane suspended in a giant topus. and started a plastic recycling New England Association of $3,000 Duke Smith Memorial tuning fork. The Orientator The two Hall of Fame company in Florida. He and Amusement Parks and Attrac- Scholarship. It was awarded became a popular attraction awards this year went to Bob his wife moved to Boca Raton. tions, and Massachusetts Agri- to David Soled, a high school at fairs and festivals, and Lee Johnson, OABA president, But, Johnson maintained cultural Fairs Association. student and the son of Len Eyerly realized that the device and Wayne McCary, retired his amusement industry con- He was recognized by the Soled, Rides-4-U. In all, OABA could be sold as an amuse- president and CEO, The Big E, tacts, and in 1994 got a call International Entertainment will award 35 scholarships ment ride. He renamed it the Springfield, Mass. from OABA Trustee Jimmy Buyers Association with the this year. The remaining re- Acroplane. Apparently, keeping a se- Drew asking him about his Founders Award in 2007. cipients will be announced at The Eyerlys went on to cret like this from the OABA possible interest in becoming He served as president at a later date. design, patent, and manufac- president wasn’t an easy task. the association’s executive the IAFE, the Midwest Fairs The Pioneer Award this ture over 1,000 rides before, But, as it turned out, the tim- director. He began serving in Association and the Massa- year was presented to Jack and after, World War II and ing was just right. Johnson and that capacity in 1995. chusetts Agricultural Fairs Eyerly and the Eyerly Aircraft into the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, and his wife, Alex Johnson, were to Johnson and his wife have Association, and on the board Company. Jack Eyerly is now 80’s, including park and por- celebrate the next day, Feb. 9. two children Chris and Caro- of the Country Music Associa- deceased, however his son, table models: 60 Acroplanes; “My recognition was a lyn, and three grandchildren. tion. Wayne is vice president Jon Eyerly accepted the award 75 Loop-O-Planes (pre-WWII total surprise,” said Johnson. McCary is the first fair of a Monte Carlo world circus for his father. production); 300 Roll-O- “The board voted electronical- manager to lead OABA. He organization. The Eyerly Aircraft Com- Planes; 80 Fly-O-Planes; 250 ly to honor me with the OA- was elected to sit as third vice Mike Featherston, Gold pany was founded in Salem, Rock-O-Planes; 400 Octopus BA’s Hall of Fame. My family chair of the OABA in 2005. He Star Amusements, became the Oregon, during the Great De- and Spider rides; 28 Monsters; members were there under the became the chairman in 2009. chair of OABA during the Fri- pression by Jack Eyerly’s fa- 80 Midge-O-Racers; and 80 ruse to honor our 47th wed- He has been on the OABA day night event. Featherston ther Lee Eyerly. Lee Eyerly Bulgy the Whale rides. ding anniversary.” board for 13 years. began his amusement career earned a pilot’s license (signed Plus over 2,000 individual Johnson took a circuitous McCary has a long and when he got a job after high by Orville Wright), after just Krazy Kars. route to the amusement in- honored history in the indus- school traveling with a Pronto three hours of formal training. While his dad had other dustry. He attended Otter- try. He studied business ad- Pup and Lemonade conces- He started an aviation school interests, Jack Eyerly’s sole in- bein College where he studied ministration at the University sion at fairs in Illinois in 1976. and established Salem, Or- terest was in building amuse- pre-med and worked as an of Hartford. He was a reporter When that fair season egon’s first airport. ment rides. His business and emergency room orderly. He for the Norwich Bulletin there, ended, Featherston served Lee Eyerly searched for hobby were one and the same. transferred to Parsons College and he learned how to book food on the Jack Thompson inexpensive ways to train new Jack Eyerly’s son recalled that where he graduated in 1967 talent, including the Flying 4See OABA, page 37

OABA President Bob Johnson was presented with the Hall of Fame award during the as- Wayne McCary and his wife, Annette McCary, had a very sociation’s annual meeting held Feb. 8, Tampa, Fla. From left, are Julie and Greg Johnson, enjoyable time during the OABA annual meeting Feb. 8 in Bob Johnson’s brother and sister-in-law; Johnson’s wife, Alex; grandson Jackson; Johnson, Tampa. McCary received the Hall of Fame award from the and daughter Carolyn. association. AT/SUE NICHOLS AT/SUE NICHOLS March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 37 Talley Amusements provides the midway for the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, which ran this year from Jan. 18-Feb. 9. The event drew more than one million visitors for the second consecutive year. At far right, the Fabbri-built Fast Trax, has proved to be a very popular ride for Talley Amusements. COURTESY FORT WORTH STOCK SHOW AND RODEO

Fort Worth Stock Show falls short of last year’s record

Great weather helps event draw more than one million vistors for second straight year

FORT WORTH, Texas — Although attendance was down from 2012, the 2013 Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo still drew over one million folks to the event which ran Jan. 18-Feb. 9. Total attendance was 1,148,400 compared to 2012’s of 1,166,000, which was an all- time record. “Since we are such a weather-driven event, what is remarkable was that the weather was nice enough for two years in a row for us to be able to break the one million mark,” said Shanna Weaver. 4See FORT WORTH, page 42 OABA Continued from page 36 shows. He ended up meeting Jack and Hope’s daughter, Connie, courting her and mar- rying her in 1979. Jack Thompson suffered a heart attack and passed away in 1986. Hope Thompson was a victim of breast cancer in 1991. Mike and Connie took over the operation of the Jack Thompson Shows, eventually re-naming it Gold Star Amuse- ments 21 years ago. Mike and Connie have three children and 6 young grandchildren. All the children and their spouses work and travel with the show. Featherston has served on the OABA board since 2001. He was president of Show- men’s League of America in 2010, leading the move to new headquarters in Chicago. And he is twice past president of the Midwest Showmen’s Association. 38 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013

midwaylights COMPILED: Pam Sherborne, [email protected]

Renovations were expected to start soon on the chester Community Fair for their 11th consecutive year. rides fairgoers expect when visiting the Nebraska State Buffalo County Fairgrounds’ Exhibit Building that The 69th Manchester Community Fair will take Fair,” McDermott said. could cost approximately $843,000 in base and alter- place July 2-6. He added, “Wade Shows is unprecedented when nate projects. The work is expected to be completed • it comes to customer appeal and service. Their cus- when the 100th Buffalo County Fair, Kearney, Neb., The Richland County Fair Board, Sidney, Mont., tomer service amenities include shaded seating area, opens July 24-29, 2013. last month announced not only the concert line up for mouthwatering food, landscaping, games and their all- Base bid projects for the Exhibit Building are roof the 2013 fair, but a new carnival as well. new Gold Access Program, offering more opportuni- repairs, painting inside and outside, air-conditioning North Star Amusements will provide the midway ties for guests of the Nebraska State Fair. and heat on the north side, new floors and ceilings, in 2013 when the fair runs July 31-Aug. 3. The Nebraska State Fair runs from August 23 heavy-duty drywall around the main room that is used • through September 2, 2013. for indoor tennis, and consolidating kitchens and Just after the 2012 Colorado State Fair, the fair • lunchrooms into one larger kitchen and event-meeting board renegotiated a new contract with Crabtree Thomas Ryan, former chief of staff of the New space for as many as 150 people. Amusements. York State Thruway and Canal Corporation, took The alternates approved include larger overhead General Manager Chris Wiseman said although over as director of the New York State Fair, Syracuse, doors that could allow events to expand indoor exhibit carnival finances showed a decrease from the 2011 N.Y., Feb. 1. Tom Young, former Syracuse mayor from space, concrete and lighting repairs around the outside event, he felt the relationship cultivated between the 1986-1993 and former fair director from 1975 to 1985, of the building, and new gutters and downspouts. fair and carnival was worth continuing. will advise Ryan for the 2013 fair set for Aug. 22-Sept. • The 2013 fair will run Aug. 23-Sept. 2. 2. The 2013 Manatee County Fair, Palmetto, Fla., • Ryan is taking the reins from Dan O’Hara, who will Jan. 17-27, is being called a success. Total attendance Last November the Alpena (Mich.) County Agri- move to another job within New York City. was reported as being between 155,000 and 160,000, culture Society/Fair Board was granted one year by Young’s advisory role is unpaid. just slightly off 2012’s record of 172,000. the board of commissioners to straighten out its finan- • Belle City Amusements provided about 54 rides cial issues and to smooth tensions with the local 4-H, or The Oxford Fair, South Park, Maine, has earned and attractions for the event. be replaced by a different board formed by the county. the Most Improved Large Fair award by the Maine • During January’s commissioners meeting Fair Association of Agricultural Fairs. The award was The Minnesota State Fair board announced a de- Board Treasurer Katie Bleau updated the commission- presented to Jackie Young, president of the Oxford cision last month to ban smoking in virtually all open-air ers on the past year, announced a change in the date County Agricultural Society, at the 101st annual meet- space on the 320-acre grounds for 2013. Smoking had of the 2013 fair and paid back the remainder of the ing of the association at the Holiday Inn by the Bay in already been prohibited in fair buildings. Now, those money the board owed the county for a small financial Portland on Jan. 25 and 26. wanting to smoke will be restricted to designated out- bailout. Young, who serves as the fair’s livestock superin- door smoking areas. Bleau said there were several things that needed tendent and was elected president of the society in Details hadn’t been worked out but should be by to be done in order to stabilize the fair board’s finances 2011, said the fair has made a number of major changes the time the fair opens in August. and host a more successful fair. She said the board had over the last year. They include lower admission prices, • to watch how it spent its money and also improve its a return to the Wednesday to Sunday schedule and hir- The Washington County Fair, Salem, Ind., has relationship with 4-H. She said these things have been ing top-notch entertainment, including 2012 headliner moved its dates from July to June this year. The deci- addressed and with about $24,000 in several funds, LeAnn Rimes. sion was based on the school calendar as well as how things are moving in the right direction headed into The fair is held on the 100-acre Oxford County Ag- closely the dates ran to the start of the Indiana State 2013. ricultural Society fairgrounds and includes horse rac- Fair. The date of the fair for the past several years had ing, livestock demonstrations, live music, carnival and This year the Washington County Fair will run June generated a lot of concern from the public. It had been other attractions. 23-30. The fair parade, which officially launches the held on Labor Day weekend and the days leading up In the past few years, the fairgrounds has had a event, is set for 3 p.m. Sunday, June 23. to the holiday. Bleau said in 2013 the date of the fair new entrance, several new barns, new parking areas • will be held Aug. 6-10 and a new carnival company, will and lighting, a new museum, a roof for the bleachers, Midland (Mich.) County Fair has a new fair man- take over operations for a year. a racetrack, a crow’s nest for judges, a grandstand for ager, Trish Steele, 47. Steele, who is replacing Tom The fair board entered into a one-year agreement the entertainment area and comprehensive electrical Valliere, is no stranger to the Midland fair. As a youth with Schmidt Amusements to handle the carnival por- upgrades. 4H member, Steele showed her cattle at the fair with tion of the fair in 2013. If things go well, Bleau said, a The 2013 fair will be Sept. 11-14. her siblings just as her father did. longer contract could be signed with the new business. • Steele will not only be responsible for managing • Over the past five years, Pacific National Exhibi- the annual county fair but also all the events and festi- “The Thrill of it All” is the new theme for the 2013 tion (PNE), Vancouver, British Columbia, attendance vals held at the year-round, 118-acre facility. Nebraska State Fair. The theme was chosen to high- has been in flux. It was 753,298 in 2008, but reached This year’s dates are Aug. 11-17. light the new partnership with midway carnival provid- a high of 937,485 in 2010, boosted by the centennial • er, Wade Shows. celebration concerts featuring Bryan Adams and the The Manchester (Mich.) Community Fair Board has According to State Fair Executive Director, Joseph Beach Boys. signed a new contract with a carnival for the 2013 Man- McDermott, “Our partnership with Wade Shows actu- Since then, attendance has dropped back to chester Community Fair. At the close of the 68th ally began at the 2012 Nebraska State Fair when we 763,689 in 2012. Manchester Community Fair in July 2012, there were erected the new SkyTram. Wade Shows owns and op- The 2013 PNE officials hope to attract a wider some questions about the event dates for the 2013 erates the SkyTram, which provided 30,000 fairgoers range of visitors with a cut in the admission price to season. with a high-flying look over the fairgrounds this past $16 from $20. After months of uncertainty and phone calls, e- year. Officials say the cut will be largely funded through mails and other communications with numerous car- “This year, the new ride line-up will prove to be a lower operating costs as a result of the reduction of nival companies, the fair board received word that huge draw with kiddie rides in the ‘Lil’ Pardners’ area, days from 17 to 15. This year’s fair will run from Aug. Elliott’s Amusements would be returning to the Man- family rides, thrill rides and a new slate of spectacular 17-Sept. 2. It will close on the first two Mondays.

Through the smiles, the seasons & the miles – Financing everything for the outdoor amusement industry since 2000. Prairie Financial Paul Muller [email protected] A division of Mark Walker Wade Muller [email protected] prairiefinancialinc.com [email protected] 816-554-3863 March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39 40 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 Annual Pennsylvania combined convention a big success 1,566 attendees on ity rooms were the gathering hand at the four-day places after the business of the day was over. The Show- event in Hershey men’s Association, which has STORY: B. Derek Shaw been in existence in Penn- [email protected] sylvania the past 45 years, had an active room. Others HERSHEY, Pa. — An- were hosted by Variety At- other strong convention was 135 exhibitors on the Trade tractions, Reithoffer Shows, enjoyed by 1,566 attendees Show floor, along with Com- Inc., Otto’s Amusements, during the annual Pennsyl- munication Exhibits — an S&S Shows, Tropical Amuse- vania State Association of aisle devoted to scrapbooks, ments, Goodtime Amuse- County Fairs (PSACF) and advertising samples, premi- ments and numerous others. Pennsylvania State Show- um books and memorabilia New this year was a food man’s Association (PSSA) from fairs held throughout drive, conducted by IAAFE convention held at Hershey the state during the past year. and supporting the Central Lodge and Convention Cen- In addition, educational Pennsylvania Food Bank. ter January 23-26. The 101st seminars, daily workshops, National sponsor ETIX has a edition brought together breakfast table topics and goal of 20 million pounds of Changing of the guard: Bruce Kopenhaver, retiring execu- board members, volunteers banquets each evening com- donated food from all fairs tive secretary/treasurer of the PSACF from Gratz (Pa.) Fair and staff from 84 of the 108 pleted the schedule of events. across the country. with incoming Secretary/Treasurer, Harry Reffner, Bedford county and local fairs held Wednesday evening was the Also new for this year’s County Fair. throughout the Common- night to showcase entertain- convention was a dedicated ALL PHOTOS: AT/B.DEREK SHAW wealth each year. It also was ment of all types and variety, website for the convention, an opportunity for carni- from musical acts, imperson- exclusively. That site: www. val owners/operators, food/ ators, magicians, comedians pafairsconvention.org along game concessionaires, en- and clowns, western shows with Facebook and Twitter tertainers and suppliers to and more. Sixteen acts were social media improved the show off their wares by way on the stage this year. Many event’s presence. “We got of a two and a half day trade of these acts were also on the some mileage out of that,” show. trade show floor each day. said Bruce Kopenhaver, re- This year there were over Each evening, hospital- 4See FAIRS, page 42

All smiles: Mike Froelich, general manager at York (Pa.) Fair and York Expo Center, wife Brenda and James Ingram with Deggeller Attractions, Stuart, Fla.

A generational company: Ricky and Rick Reithoffer 4th and 3rd generation showmen for Reithoffer Shows out of Gib- sonton, Fla. They are the midway operator for the Blooms- burg Fair. March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 41 42 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013 Attendee breakdown - in Dorenbos is a professional ing season. This year 55 con- FAIRS cluded 1,019 from the vari- magician in his spare time, testants representing their FORT WORTH Continued from page 40 ous fairs across the Pennsyl- performing in Las Vegas and local/regional fair partici- Continued from page 37 tiring Executive Secretary/ vania Commonwealth; 49 Hollywood. pated in three days of judg- In fact, the show was run- Treasurer of the PSACF and fair associates; 34 guests; 9 Another integral part ing activities before a winning ahead of last year’s figure a member of the Gratz Fair judges; 19 others; 309 trade of the PSACF portion of the ner to this 27th annual event through the third Saturday, Board. Harry Reffner with show vendor participants; 4 convention is the crowning was selected and crowned. Feb. 2, with 777,900 visitors the Bedford County Fair is speakers and 123 Showman of the Pennsylvania State Fair Rhonda Carl was crowned compared to 2012’s 775,100. the new Executive associates. Queen. Since there is no “of- the winner, representing the That third Saturday set a re- Secretary/Treasurer. John The 2013 convention ficial” state fair, the Saturday Schuylkill County Fair. cord attendance for a single D Blaney, Jr. with the Fayette was kicked off by Jon Doren- evening banquet serves as The 2014 convention is day with 157,800 people on County Fair is the new presi- bos, Long Snapper for the the opportunity to announce slated for January 22–25, that one day. dent, while Dr. David Reese Philadelphia Eagles. He has the 2013 Queen who visits again at the Hershey Lodge But, with Super Bowl Sun- with the Tioga County Fair is played in every Eagles game any Pennsylvania fair upon and Convention Center. day hitting on the third week- the new vice president. since the mid 2006 season. request during the upcom- end (Feb. 3) and cloudy and cooler temperatures on the final day, numbers dropped. MIDWAY MARKET PLACE

However, officials were Gull Wing Industries delighted with the results. Working with the Carnival Weaver said new this year Industry since 1989 was the upgraded interactive Contact us at: smartphone app, Score it! www.gull-wing.com Stock show officials had already introduced an app for visitors to get schedules, view Pack-Man 175 kw or 250 kw locator maps and receive up- Quiet Power–Tractor or Trailer Mounted dated show information. But, for the first time in the history of the professional rodeo industry, Scoreit, pro- 309 N.E. 1st Street P.O. Box 128 Alta, IA 51002 vided rodeo fans with an op- GFlex 400 Amp Toll Free: 800-838-1482 Fax: 712-200-1936 portunity to score roughstock rides, predict timed event com- petitors’ times, learn about the history of the Fort Worth Ro- deo, access professional com- petitors’ biographies and develop an understanding of the sport of professional rodeo. For the 11th consecutive year, Talley Amusements provided the midway for the 2013 event. —Pam Sherborne

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CINDEE HUDDY lights (615) 545-8109 E-mail it to www.creativeoperationalconcepts.com Pam Sherborne • RIDE OPERATOR CERTIFICATION • MANUAL WRITING psherborne@ • SUPERVISOR & LEADERSHIP TRAINING PROGRAMS • OPERATIONAL SAFETY AUDITS amusement today.com Keep our carnival and fair industry strong! Buy products and services from these suppliers. March 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 43

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1997 Chance Yo-Yo trailer mounted...... $200,000 ARM Full Tilt- flying Dutchman themed trailer mounted ...... $379,000 2000 Zamperla Rocking Tug trailer mounted...... $99,000 SBF/Visa Super Truck trailer mounted...... $39,000 Check out the latest premium new and used rides at: Wisdom Sizzler trailer mounted...... $149,000 facebook.com/internationalridesmanagement Chance Sea Dragon trailer mounted ...... $149,000 or call (609) 425-1220 to receive a current list. Tivoli ReMix 2 trailer mounted ...... $425,000 Zamperla Fiesta Express Coaster trailer mounted .. OPPORTUNITY OPPORTUNITY ...... $79,000 NEED RIDE HELP IN ALL AREAS Highlite 70ft Wheel trailer mounted...... $259,000 SMOKEY MOUNTAIN AMUSEMENTS FOR SALE SERVICES Supervisor to lead crew of five. Move INC. Needs Ride Help In All Sky Trail/Ropes course park model...... $39,000 and maintain Chance/Wisdom rides; 1) Departments: 2008 CAPCO CENTER TRAILER WHITEWATER 10 YEAR INSPECTIONS Zamperla Swing 20 park model...... $14,900 Century Wheel/Pharaoh’s Fury, Zipper, Works in Bahamas until March 1 - must Like-new condition, 18’x8’, removable Merry Go Round 2) Super Sizzler have passport 3rd party insurance and safety inspec- Zamperla mini jet 10 sweep park model... $19,000 hitch, all hydraulic, goes to ground level, tions. California QSI inspections. Former Ride Superintendent - For Green Unit. S & S Frog Hopper park model...... $34,000 extra awning lights. Disney Safety Manager. Amusement and • Basic hydraulic/electrician knowledge Electrician - For Green Unit. waterparks. KMG Fire Ball trailer mounted ...... $799,000 • CDL Class A license helpful $40,300 - Call EJ Dean (978) 375-2542 • Drug test mandatory Contact: Wisdom Starship 2000 trailer mounted...$225,000 www.safetycertify.com • Seasonal position for approximately • Brian (Beaver) Bitner FOR SALE (916) 772-2698 Wisdom Gee Whiz trailer mounted...... $124,000 9 months, could develop into annual (919) 272-5627 “60 Horse Chance Grand Carousel- employment Outside row of Bradley & Kaye horses. • Competitive salary and benefits Billy Clark 2 loads (4 pup trailers) $425,000 Call Len or John package (863) 738-1689 (908) 526-8009 2008 Tivoli Remix II, T/M. Excellent FAX: (908) 526-4535 Email resume or work experience to Condition $490,000 Find us on Facebook [email protected] facebook.com/amusementtoday Call EJ Dean 978-375-2542” Industry news delivered direct to your desk! Subscribe today to receive 14 issues of Amusement Today per year!

It’s amusementtoday com or call us at: Easy { (817) 460-7220 } 44 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2013