IAAPA, IISF, Address: P.O

International Association of Fairs & Expositions's Virtual Vision preview — page 28 INSIDE:

Industry celebrates holiday season

AMUSEMENT VIEWS PARKS & FAIRS WATER PARKS BUSINESS SAFETY CLASSIFIEDS Page 2 Pages 11-24 Pages 25-27 Pages 28-36 Pages 37-46 Page 47 Get the most up-to-date industry news from AmusementToday.com! 2 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 AMUSEMENT VIEWS

AT NOTEBOOK: John W.C. Robinson, [email protected] FLINT’S VIEW: Bubba Flint A restless Christmas Eve For all of the childhood memories that have been blurred, forgotten or replaced, there's one feeling we can all still clearly remember. It's that feeling, as a child, on Christmas Eve when we were being put to bed with full knowledge of what the next Robinson morning would bring. It was hours away and the excitement was abundant: Santa Claus would visit overnight and the next morning the tree would be loaded with presents. That feeling persisted even as an adult — long after the dreams of Santa's existence had been quieted — because our kids still believed, and we were just as eager to see their faces in the morning when they awoke to the gifts from the overnight visit of the jolly old fat man. The effects of 2020's shutdowns and the COVID-19 pandemic are still being felt. Infection numbers continue to climb, stocks are still trying to rebound and most of us will celebrate the holidays with only our immediate household. The amusement industry was hit extremely INDUSTRY VOICE: Michael Sean Comerford, author, American OZ hard during 2020, and many of us are holding our breath trying to balance hope for 2021 with the reality Adapting to survive 2020 has present us with. The most visible tragedies of the Carnivals were born in a time of a pan- And yet, if you close your eyes and just take a pandemic are the deaths and the peo- demic, racial unrest, a depression and moment, it almost feels like that childhood Christmas ple whose long-term health is hurt. Yet income inequality. Eve. Something special is just moments away. people are hard wired to need com- In 2014, when I was working in car- While right now, we're all still dealing with COVID- munal celebrations. We want to have nivals, I found about 350 traveling car- 19 and its realities, in recent weeks not one but two fun along with our friends and family. nivals listed on the internet. Earlier this Our health is linked to it. Depression. year, a search of Carnival Midways online promising vaccines have made it through testing. Earliest Comerford Stress. Feelings of isolation. Drug/ site showed a few more than 200 active estimates have one or both of them available to the public alcohol abuse. All are the results of fewer carnivals in the US. at large by March of 2021, with later estimates putting carnivals and state fairs. We need joy and we It's a safe guess there will be fewer carni- that timeline at sometime this forthcoming summer. Either need to share it. vals next year and many of those will likely be way, it's a light at the end of the pandemic tunnel and one Carnival people suffer those stressers even smaller, as carnivals adjust to social distanc- that holds promise not only for the world at large, but for more acutely. Many carnies live most of the ing and financial demands. Most carnivals are the 2021 tourist and attraction season. year in their bunkhouse. The offseason, or win- highly leveraged. Yet carnivals were born in a In addition, while the requirements of 2020 was ter quarters, is often a time of unemployment time with many of the same problems we have something none of the industry was ready for, the 2021 and housing uncertainty. They are living in win- today and they adjusted. season will be greeted with a prepared amusement ter quarters all year now. When climate change floods parts of Traveling carnivals were born at the World’s America, traveling carnivals will go where the industry. One that's ready to welcome guests with or Columbian Exposition of 1893. It was a time people go. When the Dust Bowl in the 1930s without masks, one that's ready to santize rides and of the Asian flu, which killed 1 million people, drove people from their homes and people promote healthy visits. when the world was 25% of today’s popula- went hungry, traveling carnivals offered cheap Right now, it's Christmas Eve. Santa hasn't arrived tion. There were race riots. The pandemic games and baskets of food instead of plush. yet, but the industry is eager and ready to unwrap the touched off a depression that lasted a decade My prediction is there is much pain ahead gift of 2021 and its hopeful promises. and rivaled the Great Depression of the 1930s. but traveling carnivals will evolve and survive. Opinions expressed on this page are those of the columinst(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

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Amusement Today is an independent, privately- Founder & Publisher Editor & Production Manager Monthly Contributors owned trade newspaper published 14 times per Gary Slade • (817) 460-7220 John Robinson • (513) 256-1441 David Fake, Bubba Flint, year by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. Box 5427, [email protected] [email protected] Lottie Minick, Richard Munch, Arlington, Texas 76005. The entire contents of Janice Witherow this newspaper, and its related websites, are Copyrighted and Trademarked 2020 by Amuse- Accounting & Classified Editorial Association Memberships ment Today Inc., all rights reserved. Sammy Piccola • (817) 460-7220 Tim Baldwin • (972) 697-9745 [email protected] [email protected] ACE, AIMS International, ASTM, IAAPA, IISF, Address: P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas IRT/iROC, NAARSO, NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, PAPA, PACE, SLA, TTIA, WWA 76005-5427, USA Assistant Office Manager, Circulation Jeffrey Seifert • (817) 460-7220 Deliveries: 2004 E. Randol Mill Road #502, [email protected] Arlington, Texas 76011, USA Savannah Breen • (817) 460-7220 Industry Affiliated Charities Phone: (817) 460-7220 [email protected] Give Kids the World Village, Morgan's Wonderland, • (717) 843-3050 Fax: (817) 265-NEWS (6397) B. Derek Shaw National Roller Coaster Museum & Archives Websites: www.AmusementToday.com, Advertising [email protected] www.GoldenTicketAwards.com Sue Nichols • (615) 477-5432 Pam Sherborne • (615) 308-3310 [email protected] [email protected] December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3

THE INDUSTRY SEEN MINUTE Final day at Six Flags DRILL 2 AT: Janice Witherow Drew Edward Hunter, Sally Dark Rides Wow. In one word, that describes Drew Edward Hunter and the amazing creativity and over-the-top talent he brings to the amusement industry. As vice president of creative design for Sally Dark Rides, Drew oversees a team of designers, sculptors, scenic and finish artists with an unmatched flair that shines through from each project he manages. He is an award-winning artist, theater and musical guru, a founding member of the International Association of Haunted Attractions and has even performed as Bozo the Clown on television. Drew lives in a historic district in Jacksonville, Fla., in a house dubbed the “Drewseum” where each room has an elaborate theme – people actually think it’s a tourist attraction and offer to pay admission! Again, wow.

Title: Vice President/Creative Design. Drew Edward Hunter of Sally Dark Rides Number of years in the industry: brings over-the-top creativity and talent ARLINGTON, Texas — Amusement Today’s Tim Baldwin It has been 45 years since my first profes- to the amusemnet industry. and Jeffrey Seifert ventured out to visit with Six Flags sional attraction design in 1975. COURTESY DREW EDWARD HUNTER Over Texas’ Operations Manager Matt Hughey (right) on his final day at the park. Hughey has taken a new Best thing about the industry … The best holiday movie of all time is … position at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin. His new Forming life-long friendships with colleagues A tie between the musical “Scrooge” (1970); role will be to oversee the installation of a small family around the world from all areas of amuse- “The Bishop’s Wife” (1947); and “National amusement park at the racing site. AT/TIM BALDWIN ment and theme park attraction development Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (1989). who celebrate the joy of creativity. When I say snow, you say … “No!” — Snow If I wasn’t working in the amusement industry, is beautiful – on calendars and Christmas cards. I would be … A movie director or a stage actor. In one word, sum up 2020: Endurance. Reflections Biggest challenge facing our industry: Obviously COVID-19. Beyond that, making Dream car : A 1933 Packard 12. ON FUN sure that dazzling and remarkable technical AT: Lottie Minick achievements enhance our products, but do The last concert I attended was … not overwhelm the most important element: A fabulous pre-COVID-19 concert of the A gift for the generations Entertainment. Jacksonville Symphony. The roots of Bell’s Amusement Park (Tulsa, Oklahoma) truly began on Christmas 1946, when six-year-old Robert K. Bell, Jr., The thing I like most about the amuse- If I didn’t live in Florida, I would live in … realized his family was on a very tight budget. The child wanted ment/water park season is … The Vieux Carre’ in New Orleans. nothing for himself, just a dollhouse for his baby sister. His dad, My first visit to a park in the new season. Robert K. Bell, Sr., built one for her alongside his son. However, On my lunch hour, I usually spend my time … without the younger Bell’s knowledge, his father was also building At my house reading and visiting with my cats. his son a midget racer powered by a Maytag motor with a steering It’s December! My favorite winter sport is wheel crank adapted from a hospital bed. After Christmas morning … Staying warm. I grew up in the south. No Proudest moment: Whenever my parents festivities, Mr. Bell presented his son with the gift. cold, ice or snow for me, please! would tell me they were proud I am their son. Their neighbor, upon seeing how handy the elder Bell was, said: “Bob, with my expertise about paint and body work and your Santa’s best kept secret: It isn’t discussed Margaritas … on the rocks or frozen? mechanical engineering talents, we can make a miniature train for much, but Santa drinks gallons of highly Machine frozen – though there is a restau- the kids and pick-up extra money on the weekend.” This was the caffeinated coffee during his worldwide rant I frequent in Jacksonville which makes beginning for Bell’s Amusement Park. Christmas Eve flight so he can stay awake, all a superb on-the-rocks margarita. The BEST In 1967, the Bells were designing and constructing a new, the while dreaming of December 26th when (and tastiest, smallest and most lethal) on-the- large, wooden roller coaster, Zingo, which has since become an his annual vacation to Bali begins. rocks marg I ever encountered was in 1989 at industry icon. The bents were built like a reverse domino plunge a restaurant on the River Walk in San Antonio. with the shortest to tallest erected. Around Christmas, Bell, Sr. put On December 25, you can find me … Wow. Still remember. Still reeling. his three-year-old grandson Robert K. Bell III on his shoulders, For decades, at my parents’ home in walked up the incline to the tallest bent and topped out the Louisiana. This year, in Florida. Favorite fast food: Taco Bell original tacos and coaster with a Christmas tree for the holidays. Upon seeing McDonald’s original hamburgers. I know, this is photos, Sally Bell — young Bell's mother — was not amused at When it comes to Christmas trees … white so pathetic. Yet — for some inexplicable reason the daredevil excursion by her son and his grandfather. or colored lights? — they are yummy, nostalgic and satisfying. With three generations of the Bell family behind it, Bell’s It’s a polychromatic Christmas! Amusement Park continued the tradition of making wonderful If I was marooned on a desert island, the memories for millions of people up until its closure in 2006. Favorite holiday tradition: three things I would absolutely have to have I look forward to relaxing in a cozy room late with me would be … My cats, drawing pad Lottie Minick is a 46-year attractions industry veteran and at night listening to low-key, mellow holiday with pencils and a copy of Disney’s Fantasia co-owner of Dallas-based Minick Associates, a design firm music and remembering friends, Christmases with playback system and great sound. founded by her late husband, Bob. Her monthly column fea- and good times of the past. tures behind-the-scenes anecdotes of her own and from those I get most of my news from … The internet, who have worked in the business. Got a fun industry story? Best buzz word: “Seriously??” — Seriously. usually via CNN, and from radio via NPR. Email [email protected]. 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 Amusement, theme parks around the world offer holiday festivities

AT: Pam Sherborne has created a special experience [email protected] for its guests to celebrate winter, Holidays at Legoland! The event Despite the on-going kicked off on Nov. 20 and will global coronavirus pandemic, run through Jan. 20, 2021. or maybe even because of it, Visitors have the opportu- amusement and theme parks nity to holiday shop and dine around the world are doing and enjoy shimmering lights, what they can to lift spirits live entertainment, the famous during this holiday season by 30-foot-tall Lego Christmas offering celebrations. tree, festive decor and more. While some are doing The park’s Fun Town turns more limiting for social dis- into a winter wonderland as tancing, others have had to of- buildings are trimmed with fer drive-throughs due to local An artist rendering of the new Warme Winter Weide winter garden (above left) at Efteling's twinkling lights and holiday and state mandates. holiday offerings which has been redesigned to allow for more social distancing. Kings Dominion décor. Lego characters also are The following are some of (above right) reopened in November with a new limited-time, limited-capacity event: Taste of on-hand including Santa, Toy the 2020 holiday offerings. the Season: An Outdoor Holiday Experience. COURTESY EFTELING, KINGS DOMINION Soldier and Gingerbread Man. Visitors also may enjoy Efteling, Kaatsheuvel, so visitors can warm up while The event is set to run Dec. 5-27. displays in Texas. The opening seasonal treats and live music the Netherlands enjoying snacks and drinks. Park officials have devel- weekend debuted with a live performances, walk around Visitors to Winter Eftel- There also is live entertain- oped stringent health, safety and SpaceX Crew-1 launch viewing a newly themed Miniland ing this year are finding some ment in the new Warme Winter hygiene protocols, which align for those lucky visitors. U.S.A and enjoy building changes, yet the Efteling magic Weide winter garden. with CDC guidance and incor- In partnership with Reliant Lego ornaments among other of the holiday season with its In addition, the water porate information from com- Energy, Space Center Houston building activities. lights, festive garlands and bon- coaster De Vliegende Hollander pany and industry health and expanded Galaxy Lights this Families are welcome to fires, among other gay winter- (The Flying Dutchman) is open safety experts, along with state year to include new spacious extend the Lego holiday by time decor, is still in full view. and will remain so until Jan. 3, and local government officials to outdoor and indoor experiences. staying overnight at the magi- The wonderland event, in 2021, weather permitting. protect guests and associates. Highlights include two cal Legoland Castle Hotel. its 22nd year, began Nov. 16 and New Year’s Eve also will "Kings Dominion has a high-tech kinetic light shows, Guests are required to pur- is running through Jan. 31, 2021. be celebrated at Efteling. But, comprehensive safety plan in a new outdoor path, a 200-foot chase tickets online in advance. "We are very happy that instead of the usual fireworks place that has proven to be ef- LED light tunnel made of more Other health mandates are be- Winter Efteling can take place show, there will be an enchant- fective in all of our sister parks than 250,000 lights synchro- ing required. again this year, including ing light show that can be seen that were allowed to safely nized to festive holiday music Legoland California Resort the beautiful addition of our from anywhere in the park. operate earlier this year," said and a new interactive light pad includes Legoland California, Warme Winter Weide winter This will allow everyone to Tony Johnson, vice president made of 143 multicolor plat- Sea Life aquarium, Legoland garden," said Koen Sanders, usher in the new year in a spe- and general manager. "We can't forms under the wing of the Water Park, Legoland Hotel Efteling’s commerce, creation cial way without having to wait for families to return to historic shuttle carrier aircraft. and Legoland Castle Hotel. and development director. gather in large groups. the park and make treasured Other highlights are six, •legoland.com As in previous years, the Fai- Reservations to Winter holiday memories safely." 20-foot trees representing each rytale Forest is beautifully illumi- Efteling and the New Year's Reservations will be re- of the six International Space SeaWorld Parks nated at night, there is winter Eve at Efteling have to be quired for all guests to manage Station partners, a 15-foot Christmas Celebration entertainment again and every made in advance. capacity and maintain social wreath made of all the ISS has returned to SeaWorld San evening ends with the spectacu- •efteling.com distance standards. partner flags and a massive Diego, California, this year lar Aquanuara water show. •kingsdominion.com 40-foot-tall, 100-foot-long spar- with an ocean of holiday cheer Not returning due to social Kings Dominion, kling shooting star set near the across more than 100 acres of distancing mandates associated Doswell, Va. Space Center Houston, SpaceX Falcon 9 exhibit. outdoor space decked with with the global pandemic are The park has reopened with Houston, Texas There also is plenty of hol- sparkling lights, decorations, the ice skating rink, the cross- a new limited-time, limited-ca- Galaxy Lights, Space Center iday food and beverages. holiday festivities and an ear- country ski track and the Win- pacity event, Kings Dominion’s Houston's holiday season cel- •spacecenter.org lier start than ever before. The ter Efteling Illusions shows. Taste of the Season: An Outdoor ebration, kicked off Nov. 15 and celebration kicked off Nov. New this year is the Warme Holiday Experience. is set to run through Jan. 3, 2021. Legoland California Resort, 13 and runs on select dates Winter Weide winter garden, This new holiday celebra- Galaxy Lights is an im- Carlsbad, California through Jan. 4, 2021. an open-air section within the tion is featuring 25 sweet and mersive holiday lights Space The holiday season is always Under local pandemic park featuring partly-covered savory tastings, festive themed City tradition, bringing guests special at Legoland California mandates, SeaWorld is open as seating, catering, stalls and live areas, live shows and 16 popu- one of the most interactive and Resort and, while the park is entertainment. Bonfires are lit lar rides throughout the park. technologically advanced light not open at this time, the resort 4See HOLIDAYS, page 6

Guests at this year's Space Center Houston’s Galaxy Lights (above left) have a variety of attractions to choose from this year including this 200-foot LED light tunnel made of more than 250,000 lights synchronized to festive holiday music. While Legoland California is not open, the resort has created a special experience for its guests to celebrate winter, Holidays at Legoland (above right). COURTESY SPACE CENTER HOUSTON, LEGOLAND CALIFORNIA RESORT December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020

Christmas Celebration has returned to SeaWorld San Diego (left) this year with thousands of twinkling lights, decorations and holiday festivites. Six Flags Magic Mountain is presenting a first-ever, drive-through holiday event this year dubbed Holiday in the Park Drive-thru (above). COURTESY SEAWORLD SAN DIEGO; SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN HOLIDAYS safe environment. Candy Cane Lane Cocoa and area of the park has extended day songs synced to the fire- Continued from page 4 Along with returning Coffee Bar. its season to offer the Wild Sa- works. Performance dates will favorites, new this year are •thefair.com fari Drive-Thru Adventure. be available on Dollywood.com an accredited zoo with limited Christmas Fireworks Finale, Returning signature attrac- and the Dollywood app. capacity and enhanced health Hanukkah Celebration and Six Flags Theme Parks tions include Holiday Magic: The spotlight also shines and safety measures. Kwanzaa Festivities. With California theme parks A Celebration of the Season, brightly on the park’s award- Returning highlights this Games are being offered, remaining closed due to state character appearances, Gin- winning entertainment this year include thousands of holiday food and beverage are government mandates, Six Flags gerbread Junction with the season. Some of the shows in- twinkling lights at the Sesame plentiful and photo opportuni- Magic Mountain, Valencia, Cali- giant inflatable gingerbread clude: Christmas in the Smok- Street Christmas Village where ties are everywhere. fornia, is presenting Holiday in man, Polar Point ice-blue trees, ies, a new show called Heart of families may enjoy physically- SeaWorld Orlando Florida the Park Drive-thru Experience Joy to the World lit pathway, the Holidays, a Christmas with distanced photo opportunities rolled out its Christmas Cel- in an effort to provide safe out- wood-burning fire pits, holiday the Kingdom Heirs, O’ Holy with everyone’s favorite furry ebration on Nov. 14. It is set to door holiday family fun. eats and festive photo spots. Night, Appalachian Christ- friends. Also returning are run through Dec. 31. Like its sis- The event kicked off Nov. 20 The park has held two new mas with the Smoky Moun- Holly Jolly Marketplace, Ha- ter parks, guests at the Florida and will run through Jan. 3, 2021. holiday events, the Holiday tain String Band, Holiday Wild nukkah Celebration and spe- park are enjoying new events This first-time, drive- Wine Fest Nov. 14 and 15 and Roots, The Mistletones and the cial backdrops for photos. such as Hanukkah Celebration through experience takes visi- Holiday Food Drive event on Candlelight Carolers. An array of new fea- and Kwanzaa Festivities. There tors on a counter-clockwise Nov. 21 and 22. Glacier Ridge offers an tures this year includes Santa also is a new Christmas carol route through the 125-acre park •sixflags.com expansive arctic experience Presents: Christmas Animals show called It’s a Wonderful and past millions of holiday where guests stop by at the Around the World outdoor Night: A New Story to Tell. lights choreographed to music. Dollywood Wilderness Pass Plaza to watch presentation with live ani- Sesame Street Land has The route includes eight dis- Pigeon Forge, Tennessee the Wonderful Christmas tree mals including camels and gotten into the spirit with char- tinctly different areas through- Dollywood’s Smoky Moun- show featuring a 50-foot-tall reindeer. Also new this year is acters singing and dancing to out the park, including Rockin’ tain Christmas kicked off Nov. animated tree that sparkles to Rudolph’s Movie Experience, holiday songs. Visitors are en- Universe in the DC Universe 7 and will run through Jan. 3, life to present a fully-synchro- Kwanzaa Festivities, Cookies joying the return of the park’s area, Merry Lane in Metropolis, 2021. With more than five mil- nized, dazzling light show and Photos with Santa, Stock- Sea of Trees and Rudolph’s The Underground at the West lion gleaming Christmas lights throughout the evening. ing Stuffer Christmas Trail and Christmas Town. The Christ- Coast Racers coaster, and Win- and a dazzling new holiday Santa's workshop is on full Christmas Treasure Hunt. mas Market is featuring festive ter Wonderland at Viper coaster. fireworks show, guests are -sur display and the park's rides There will be no shortage entertainment and holiday- Magic Mountain's rides will rounded and immersed in the will thrill and chill. of holiday food and beverage. themed food and drinks. remain closed during the event. holiday season. And for those looking to cel- To celebrate the season In addition to the new show, Advance, online reserva- While many favorites of ebrate the holidays with the per- safely, SeaWorld consulted SeaWorld Orlando is offering tions are required. the Christmas celebration have fect family meal, Dollywood’s with medical experts to offer a visitors an outdoor ice skating Six Flags Great Adven- returned, new attractions also team of chefs have a menu full of modified event with required rink at Bayside Stadium. ture, Jackson, New Jersey, are being offered such as the culinary surprises sure to delight reservations and limited capac- •seaworld.com kicked off its Holiday in the Christmas fireworks display in several food and beverage lo- ity. This seasonal event features Park festivities Nov. 14. It is set called Merry & Bright. The cations throughout the park. open-air entertainment and ex- Washington State Fair to run through Jan. 3, 2021. show features a number of holi- •dollywood.com periences as well as enhanced Puyallup, Washington The spectacular winter health and safety measures. The Washington State festival is sparkling with more SeaWorld San Antonio Fair, Puyallup, Washington, is than a million glittering lights, also is presenting a Christmas bringing the magic of Christ- festive foods, thrilling rides and Celebration this year. That mas to the Puyallup area with holiday entertainment with a event kicked off Nov. 20 and is its first Holiday Magic, a fes- continued focus on safety. set to run through Jan. 3, 2021. tive, drive-through holiday This immersive and en- SeaWorld San Antonio has experience. The event will run chanting holiday experience is modified the event to allow Dec. 4-Jan. 3, 2021. bigger than ever before with 14 guests to safely visit the park, Holiday Magic will provide specially-themed areas. Coor- roam its expansive 250-acre the opportunity for guests to dinated sights, sounds, scents grounds and enjoy holiday drive through the fairgrounds and attractions will give each events. In addition to enhanc- and immerse themselves in the section a distinct character. ing the park’s already strict true magic of the season. There Opening for its sixth sea- Dollywood’s Smoky health and safety measures, ca- will be thousands of lights dis- son, Holiday in the Park is de- Mountain Christmas is pacity will be significantly lim- playing the fun that only the buting new attractions includ- offering a full array of ited to create even more open holiday season can bring. ing the Jolly Jamboree party in activities and rides. space for a visit that provides Along with the sights and the park’s catering area and the COURTESY plenty of opportunity to main- sounds, guests will also be able Illuminated Animals with new DOLLYWOOD tain physical distancing in a to enjoy scrumptious treats and lit animals. The Wild Safari December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020

ANNUAL HOLIDAY COOKING GUIDE

There is no denying that 2020 has been a year for the record books. The industry has never seen ups and downs like this one. With that train of thought in mind, Amusement Today reached out to roller coaster Carin Davits manufacturers to share some of their favorite family recipes. Enjoy! Vekoma Rides Manufacturing BV

Michele Jehle Reindeer Cake Intamin Amusement Rides Every birthday or whatever reason there is to celebrate, my mother always bakes a “themed” cake. Last Christmas I surprised my Graubünden’s Most Famous Soup colleagues at Vekoma with a homemade Reindeer Cake, using the family recipe — success guaranteed! Graubünden is a region and canton of Switzerland. While it is Switzerland’s biggest Ingredients (Cake): Ingredients (Frosting): 1 egg canton by area, it is also the most sparsely ·6 eggs · 250 g (8¾ oz) butter populated and the only canton in Switzerland to be officially trilingual: ·160g (5½ oz) flour · 250 g (8¾ oz) icing sugar German, Italian and Romansh are spoken in different areas. ·40g (1½ oz) corn starch · 8g (.3 oz) vanilla sugar Everyone prepares this soup a little differently. However, it ·250g (8¾ oz) sugar · fondant red and black always contains barley, which has been soaked the night before, as ·16g (½ oz) vanilla sugar · cookies and golden pearl sprinkles (garnish) well as many vegetables and smoked meat. Whichever the variant ·5g (1 tsp) baking powder · may be, this rich hot soup sure tastes good and fills the stomach and Cake warms you up on cold winter days. ·Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and lightly flour an 11-inch Ingredients: cake pan. Break the eggs and add the sugar into a bowl. ·1 Tbs butter · Use a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the ·1 onion, finely chopped · eggs and sugar on medium speed for about 20-30 minutes until fluffy ·200g (7 oz) leeks, cut into fine strips mass and set aside. ·200g (7 oz) carrots, cut into small cubes Take a separate bowl and sift the flower and corn starch. When ready, ·150g (5¼ oz) celery, cut into small cubes · stir into the egg mixture with a wooden spoon (don’t whisk). ·50g (1¾ oz) air-dried meat [e.g. beef jerky] or bacon cut into small pieces Pour batter into the cake pan. Bake for around 30 minutes or until the ·80g (2¾ oz) pearl barley · cake is baked through. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the ·1L (4¼ cups) beef stock center of the cake. If it comes out clean, it is done. ·2dl (6¾ oz) full cream ·3 Tbs chives, finely chopped ·Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack. The cake must be completely cool before frosting and assembling. ·Salt and pepper to taste Directions (serves 4, preparation time of 90 minutes): Frosting Soak barley the night before. Melt butter in a large pan. Simmer the ·In a large bowl, using a hand-held mixer or stand mixer fitted with a onion, leeks, carrots, celery and meat. Add the barley, heat a little longer. whisk or paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium speed until Add the stock, bring to a boil and then cover. Reduce heat and simmer creamy — about 2 minutes. for approx. 1 hour. Season. Add cream, heat up (do not boil) and garnish ·Add the icing sugar and vanilla sugar with the mixer running on low. with chives. Increase to high speed and beat for 3 full minutes and set aside. Prepare soup approx. one day in advance; allow to cool and keep in ·Split the egg white in a cup and add the egg yolk to the bowl with the fridge, covered. You can also add: bacon, kidney beans or even try butter and sugar and mix for 5 minutes. smoked tofu instead of meat. ·Separately beat the egg whites and add this into the bowl. Add the cacao for the chocolate flavor and mix all together. Assemble and frost ·Using a large, serrated knife, slice the cake into two halves. Place 1 cake Jake Kilcup layer on your cake stand or serving plate. Evenly cover the top with Rocky Mountain Construction frosting by using a pastry bag. ·Top with 2nd layer and spread the Kilcup Huevos Ranchero frosting all over the top and sides. ·Save Ingredients: some chocolate cream to decorate the reindeer’s hair on top of the cake with ·Cooking oil ·4 corn tortillas ·8 eggs Grated cheddar cheese 1 lb chorizo some golden pearl sprinkles. · · Take some cookies to create the antler. ·½ cup red enchilada sauce · Directions (serves 4): On the stove, fry the tortillas in oil until slightly ·Use red fondant and roll a small ball for crispy. Salt lightly. Cook chorizo and remove from pan to a plate with a Rudolph’s nose which you can apply by paper towel to drain. Fry eggs over easy in chorizo pan. Place tortillas on inserting a toothpick into the cake. a sheet pan, top with 1/4 cup chorizo per tortilla, drizzle two tablespoons ·Use the black fondant to create the of enchilada sauce per tortilla, two eggs per tortilla, top with grated eyes and lashes and stick this onto the cheddar. Broil in the oven until cheese is warm and melty. Enjoy hot! chocolate cream. December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9

Sara Seay Christian von Elverfeldt Premier Rides Mack Rides Red Velvet Cake This red velvet cake was special in our family and Apfelstrudel even has its own family legend to accompany I actually have to say I am not a very good it. I love to share this with friends and family for cook, but what I love and sometimes try to make special occasions like the holidays. Premier Red, by myself (my wife knows it much better) is the what could be more appropriate? It was our wedding cake! famous German/Austrian Apfelstrudel, which is a kind of apple cake. Ingredients (Cake): Ingredients (Frosting): Ingredients (filling): Ingredients (dough): 2 oz. food coloring 5 Tbs flour 220g (7¾ oz) all-purpose flour · · ·2 Tbs rum · ½ cup shortening 1 cup milk 50g (1¾ oz) unsalted butter · · ·100g (3½ oz) raisins · 1 ½ cups sugar 1 cup granulated sugar 1 egg · · ·1.2 kg (2½ lbs) of apples · 2 eggs 1 cup (½ lb) butter pinch of salt · · ·80 g (2¾ oz) sugar · 2 tablespoons cocoa 1 tsp vanilla 80ml (2¾ oz) lukewarm water · · ·½ tsp cinnamon powder · 1 tsp salt · ·2 Tbs lemon juice 1 cup buttermilk · ·50g (1¾ oz) breadcrumbs 2 ½ cups sifted cake flour · ·50g (1¾ oz) butter 1 Tbs white vinegar · Directions: Combine all the ingredients for the dough in a mixer and form ·1 Tbs baking soda 1 tsp vanilla a smooth and elastic dough. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes and start with · the filling. Meanwhile, in a small bowl combine raisins and rum. Let sit for Directions (frosting): Cook flour and milk until thick. Cream butter, 30 minutes. Then discard the rum. Wash the apples, peel them and slice sugar and vanilla. Add to flour mixture and beat until thick enough to them in small pieces. Mix them with the sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice in spread. When finished, it will look like whipped cream. a bowl. Also bring in the breadcrumbs and the raisins. Lay a thin kitchen Directions (cake): towel preferably with a pattern flat on the counter. Sprinkle with flour. Roll Cream sugar, shortening and eggs. the dough out as thin as you can. Brush it with a little bit of melted butter · — especially the margins. Then pile the apple filling and fold the margins ·Make a paste of food coloring and cocoa. Add to creamed mixture. Mix salt and vanilla with buttermilk. inside and gently roll up the strudel with the help of the towel underneath. · Tuck the ends and transfer the strudel to a baking sheet with the seam ·Add alternately with flour to creamed mixture. Mix soda and vinegar and fold in (do not beat). facing downward. Brush the outside again with a little melted butter. Put · it in the preheated oven (180°C/355 F) and bake it 40-50 minutes. Every ·Bake in 9-inch greased, floured pans for 30 minutes at 350 degrees. (put waxed paper in bottom of pans) 20 minutes brush the strudel with the remaining butter. ·When cakes is cool, split layers in half and frost. Personally, I love the strudel slices with a light vanilla sauce.

Charlotte van Etten Vekoma Rides Manufacturing BV Oliebollen en Appelflappen (Appel Beignets) Here is a typical Dutch New Year’s eve tradition. I don’t mind the mess in the kitchen: the taste and tradition is well worth it.

Ingredients: ·1 pack of Koopmans Oliebollen*/500 g (4 cups) Koopmans mix ·5dl or 500ml lukewarm water ·250g, possibly currants and / or raisins ·oil for frying Cookware: ·Mixer with dough hooks or ladle ·Frying pan Directions (cake): ·Soak the currants and/or raisins and pat them dry. ·Stir the currants and / or raisins into the batter. ·Put the mix in a mixing bowl. Add the water (or even better with beer to make them less oily). ·Stir everything with a wooden spoon or a mixer with dough hooks to a smooth batter. ·Leave the batter in the bowl, covered with plastic or a towel, to rise at room temperature for about 45 minutes. ·Do not stir the batter during rising and baking. ·In a deep pan or deep fryer, let the oil get hot until vapor slightly comes off (approx. 190 ° C /375 degrees F) ·Form balls of batter with two spoons or donutball tongs (ice tongs). Slip the balls into the hot oil and immerse them briefly. ·Fry the oliebollen for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown on all sides. ·Remove the oliebollen from the oil with a slotted spoon/skimmer. ·Let them drain in a colander or on kitchen paper. ·Complete the oliebollen recipe by sprinkling the oliebollen with powdered sugar. *Although a Dutch recipe, van Etten says the Koopman’s mix can be found in the U.S. One example is: jacksonvillecroquettes.com. “Once you try, you’ll be hooked,” she told AT. 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 11 PARKS, FAIRS & ATTRACTIONS  ZDTs acquires historical art — page 15 / Eventful 2020 for Powers Great America Midway — page 22 Park reimagines front entrance in 2020 Six Flags St. Louis creates new sculptural icon for arriving guests

AT: Tim Baldwin has created a whole new feel. [email protected] As many attractions have been EUREKA, Mo. — Not delayed, this was an immedi- everything planned for 2020 ate fresh change that guests has come to fruition. A year could experience. of unprecedented circumstanc- “We get so many people es makes the successful proj- that tag us in the photos at our ects that did debut even more front gate,” said Gotway. “It’s rewarding. amazing if you search it.” Management at Six Flags In today’s world, an entrance St. Louis were excited to show plaza built before the internet off the theme park’s latest flair. and the creation of member- “The park entrance had ships was due for a change. The not changed since we opened need for a long stretch of ticket in 1971,” said Elizabeth booths is no longer necessary. Gotway, public relations and Now, ticket sales and guest rela- marketing manager. “It had tions have a new area off to the looked the same.” side to facilitate those reduced With the removal of the needs. Historic light posts were long stretch of ticket booths, able to be retained. All new con- the space was wide open, and crete was poured for the new it made for a perfect opportu- widened entrance. Onlookers nity to add something iconic to By removing the ticket booths, Six Flags opened up the might notice swirls of color in represent that “sense of arriv- entrance plaza. The new sculpture icon (inset) gives guests a the concrete. al” as guests entered the park. sense of arrival. COURTESY SIX FLAGS One aspect the park is As Six Flags St. Louis prepared enjoying is the creative oppor- to open for the spring, finish- company was willing to sell it to wait. Poised to showcase tunity to fashion the project ing touches were being placed to Six Flags. the new feature as spring with the change of the seasons on a new welcoming sculpture. The sculpture was a to- approached, the COVID and the various festivals. In “We had never really scale replica of the actual pandemic forced the park to 2021, the park is celebrating had a good photo op for our Gateway Arch. The Real remain closed until late June its 50th anniversary. Ideas are guests when they get here,” monument is 630 feet tall and when restrictions were lifted. being formulated to expand said Gotway. “Everyone looks 630 feet wide (the height and “We had to wait, but once the new design. Management for that spot that says ‘I’m width are indeed the same). we reopened, it was fun to feels 2020 is a “first step.” here. This is where I am.’ It’s do it!’ I got with one of our The acquired piece was 12 feet watch people come up and As the enhanced entrance really exciting.” agencies to do a logo. The arch tall by 12 feet wide. then just stop. ’Oh that’s cool. was debuting in the summer, When Amusement Today is so symbolic, and we thought “It even has the windows Let’s get our picture!’ Almost park management enjoyed asked about the origins of the arch [for the project] need- on top,” said Gotway. every family does it. For local observing their efforts. On bus- the project, Gotway reflected ed to be a roller coaster. That’s From there, the Six Flags people, there’s a hometown ier days, they were pleased to to many months ago. “We’ve who we are: thrills.” team went to work. Being pride in it. For people traveling see guests actually forming a had the tagline ‘The Coaster The installation became a made of aluminum, the iconic in from our outer markets, it’s line to have their picture taken Capitol of Missouri’ for a long labor of love for several depart- piece was sturdy but only really a destination photo that in front of the artistic creation. time,” she said. “As taglines go, ments in the park. Originally, the weighed around 200 pounds. they’re taking,” Gotway says “It adds so much to the you occasionally change them. maintenance team was prepared It was placed in a large flower of the double-win. “It really front gate. To see our longtime Katy [Enrique, marketing to run with it. Jeff Kuchem, art bed at the park entrance. The signifies Six Flags St. Louis. It’s passholders who have been so director] talked about doing and sign lead, knew a contact logo detailing was added, kind of larger than life.” many times, they would come something with ‘Gateway to through his child’s school who and the landscaping depart- The park not only is excit- through the temperature check Thrills.’ Everyone knows we had brought an arch sculpture ment embraced the beauty of ed about the new showpiece and then come up and just stop. have the beautiful Gateway to that school for a fundrais- the installation. but the entire front gate experi- They just had a look on their Arch in St. Louis. When it ing event. As it turned out, the “It always has people ence. With faster entry into the face. And then they would spot opened, it became the symbol piece was created for the All- around it,” said Gotway. “I park with the award-winning the new arch with our logo and of ‘The Gateway to the West.’ Star game in St. Louis in 2009 love it!” entrance initiatives [see AT’s go right to it. It’s been great. It When she mentioned that, we by Switch Advertising Agency. However, as with many Golden Ticket Awards issue] really has. We’re thrilled with thought, ‘Yeah, that’s cool; let’s It had been in storage, and the things in 2020, the park had and the new open space, it it,” said Gotway. Revolves & Rotates

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IRG OCT 2020 3 Ad.indd 1 10/9/20 8:55 AM 12 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 v AMUSEMENT PARK Give Kids The World Village shines MARKET PLACE with hope, illuminates for the holidays AT: David Fake Special to Amusement Today

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Under normal circumstances and in a world without a global pandemic, this time of year would find the staff and volunteers at Give Kids The World Village busy about their work of host- ing some of the more than 7,600 annual “wish-trips” for critical- Trams Road Trains & Trolleys Park Custom Projects Trains ly ill children and their families. This year, however, things The Transport Engineering Specialists Established in 1947, Enjoyed by Generations have been a little different. The Village has been silent of Night of a Million lights is Severn Lamb, Pennsylvania, USA E: [email protected] T: 717-342-2784 W: www.severn-lamb.com the laughter, excitement, and a glimpse into the magical joy that the 89-acre nonprofit Give Kids The World Village. resort was created to bring to Guests are welcome to these children and their fami- unlimited access of the Proudly working with the following lies. Sadly, Give Kids The World Village’s accessible rides and American-made companies: Village has been closed since attractions. Thoughtful details mid-March due to the COVID- •Premier Rides abound including the Wish 19 pandemic, delaying some •Sally Dark Rides Tree, (right) an oak covered 6,000 wishes to date. in thousands of purple lights •Fibrart Thankfully even amidst the representing all the wishes •PTC, Inc. most daunting of times, the holi- granted and those yet •Park Insights day season brings with it a spe- to be made. AT/DAVID FAKE •Swannee River cial kind of magic. That magic Railroad Co. sparked the idea of a way to through, socially distanced holi- our industry can do.” •Equipment bring the joy and laughter back day light spectacular includes Just this past month, Solutions/ITAL Resina to Give Kids The World Village complimentary ice cream and hot IAAPA members raised more •Great Events of while the staff and volunteers cocoa, as well as unlimited access than $47,000 through its virtual Colorado await the ability to welcome back to the Village’s beautiful, wheel- “Footprints from the Heart 5K Facebook.com/IRMRides their most special guests. That chair-accessible rides and attrac- Fun Run, as part of this year’s Idea developed into Night of a tions, three of which have been virtual IAAPA Expo. Million Lights, an event that, for donated by Zamperla. “So, yes, IAAPA and all of the first time, opens the Village Pamela Landwirth, the its great members have been to the public through January 3. President and CEO of Give Kids such wonderful partners,” Most importantly, Night of The World Village spoke with AT Landwirth continued. “We’re a Million Lights will raise funds about Night of a Million Lights, just so blessed to be part of an to ensure that the wishes of the Village and the amusement industry that's really a family, critically ill children can be ful- industry. When asked how the right? We're kindred spirits. I filled once the Village reopens, idea for the event came to be, share the same desire as theme while providing the public that she said, “Since March, there are parks to provide the perfect rare glimpse inside the magical, 600-700 wish families a month guest experience. They want to whimsical resort illuminated in whose wishes are being post- provide the perfect guest expe- festive, sparkling holiday lights. poned; by the end of the year, rience so that their guests keep Thanks to the donation of 6,000. We've promised never to coming back time and time more than three million lights by turn down a child. So, we're again. I want to provide a per- Walt Disney World Resort, along going to have to find a way to fect guest experience because with more than 45 additional make that up. Events like this our guests can't come back partners, including IAAPA, help make that happen.” again. We have just one shot. Fun Spot America, Legoland Landwirth is no stranger to And that's what's so sad about Florida, SeaWorld Orlando and the amusement industry. The this closure, because we know Universal Orlando Resort, Give IAAPA Hall of Fame induct- there are those children who Kids The World Village has been ee spent 16 Years with Disney weren't able to have that wish festooned with dazzling lights before joining Give Kids The fulfilled, and we will not get the and larger-than-life holiday World in 1992. Then, in 1995, chance to make it up to them.” displays. These partners have she was tapped to lead the Landwirth wrapped up the joined in the holiday spirit by Village. When asked how fun- conversation by explaining how adopting and decorating some draising is going for the Village she answers when people ask of the resort’s 166 family villas and what our industry can do to her, “what can I do?” She said with their own unique flair. In help, she put it this way: “Our she responds with these three addition to the decorated vil- biggest challenge right now is things: “Give. Serve. Share. Give las, the event includes a glitter- that our major partners are part money, give gifts, give tickets, ing 150-foot tunnel; more than of an industry that has been do those kinds of things. Serve 50 holiday-themed wireframes, hit the hardest, the hospitality by volunteering time; we nor- some spanning more than 40 industry, the theme park indus- mally fill 1,800 volunteer shifts a feet; an enchanting ginger- try. Let's face it, our industry is week. Finally, if you do nothing bread arch; an out-of-this-world suffering, as is everyone’s, but else, share the word, share our space-themed decor adorning ours has been hit particularly story, because we are the world's the Village’s delectable new cen- hard. Still, the continuous fun- best kept secret. There are still Keep our amusement park industry strong! terpiece, Henri’s Starlite Scoops draising by IAAPA, the parks, so many more children out there Buy products and services from these suppliers. ice cream shop. continues to amaze me. I mean, that we're not reaching.” Admission to the walk- it is absolutely incredible what •gktw.org December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 13 14 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020

ing the International Association of Amuse- Rotating office space ment Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Expo TOKYO — Several Virtual Education Conference a new flavor to tourist attractions be introduced in 2021. The new flavor is Ulti- in Japan have mate Brownie Batter, a decadent combination been hit by the of Brownie Batter ice cream and rich brownie pandemic, and batter bits. some amusement Find the new flavor at a Dippin' Dots loca- parks have tion next year. Dippin Dots is headquartered in explored other Paducah, Kentucky. ways to lure • visitors. Yomiuriland Owners of the Land of Illusion in Madison AT: Pam Sherborne Township, Ohio, presented a new expansion amusement park proposal to their county commissioners last has turned into [email protected] month in hopes of getting the revamped plan a new workplace approved. The owners had planned to submit for teleworkers. The City of Gilroy, California, is reaching a slightly different proposal in July, but with- In October, the out to developers to see if they have a plan to drew it when they learned that the plans faced park launched turn the 536 acres around Gilroy Gardens into community opposition. the amusement a recreation destination. Owners are asking to rezone 206 acres workstation The Gilroy City Council last month agreed from agricultural, residential to general busi- package to include to circulate a request for proposals for the ness classifications. Plans are to make Land a work space "Hecker Pass Highway Tourism and Recreation of Illusion a year-round facility that would next to its pool, Development Opportunity.” The RFP was re- include a larger family entertainment venue and a ride on leased mid-November, with submissions due with a campground, indoor water park, hotel, its observation by Jan. 19. City officials feel the RFP will give outdoor adventure area and other entertain- Ferris wheel with them an idea of what options are out there for ment activities. a portable WiFi that acreage. All options are being explored, The second proposal submitted last month router. It's a fun including selling the city-owned property. reduced the number of acres from the original office alternative The 536 acres have been the subject of number, removed the proposed park rides and that even allows proposed development in recent years. In reduced the planned building heights. guests to join 2017, the city was in negotiations with Great About 75% of the project is estimated to Wolf Lodge to build a 700-room resort on a be indoors. conference calls portion of the property. The Lodge owners Land of Illusion currently sits on just under while riding the eventually decided on a different location. 200 acres and has been operating for 22 years. Giant Ferris Wheel. Gilroy Gardens, meanwhile, is considering It is known for its Christmas drive-through at AT FILE/GARY SLADE an expansion that would add bike trails, zip the holidays, Haunted Scream at Halloween lines and other recreational activities on a 350- and its Aqua Adventures in the summer. acre hillside behind the gardens. • Ohio's Funtimes Fun Park The 20-page RFP document describes Officials at Vekoma Rides Manufactur- the property as well as the city’s goals for it. ing hope to expand the company's opera- It adds that potential redevelopment proj- tions by installing rides at shopping centers. makes upgrades in 2020 ects could include "portions occupied by They feel that such installations can add an ALLIANCE, Ohio — Facing a challenging 2020 season, Gilroy Gardens." extra dimension to customers' shopping ex- Funtimes Fun Park in Ohio called upon International Ride • periences and increase traffic to brick-and- Management (IRM) to provide consulting and several upgrades. The Blue Zoo, located inside the Quail mortar locations. IRM previously supplied and relocated three classic kiddie rides Springs Mall, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, has Vekoma installed 49 rides under the com- and several midway-style skill games from Lakemont Park started live mermaid shows. The shows take pany's "retailtainment" concept in Indonesia. (Altoona, Pennsylvania) to transform the facility from an outdoor place on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in The success of those rides is inspiring Vekoma FEC to a hard ride park which focused on families. and around the shark tank. Mermaids swim to expand worldwide. For the 2020 season, Funtimes took delivery from IRM on several with the sharks and stingrays and the show • additional midway-style skill games formerly of Cincinnati’s Coney includes a meet-and-greet time with the mer- After months of mini-crises ranging from Island including a large Duck Pond and a Goblet Pitch. The midway maids for guests. delays in materials to frantic hurricane prepa- was extended to allow for the installation of the games and addi- The Blue Zoo follows the Centers for Dis- rations, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston tional room cleared for two new rides. New this summer at Funtimes ease Control and Prevention’s COVID-19 safety (MFAH) opened its crowning element Nov. 21 Fun Park was an IRM-supplied Hampton Tubs of Fun, relocated from guidelines, as well as local and state mandates. in its ambitious $450 million expansion, the Santa’s Village Azoosment Park in East Dundee, Illinois. The ride, • Nancy and Rich Kinder Building, devoted to which arrived in early June, was ready to open when Ohio cleared Museum Fiasco, Las Vegas, Nevada, the institution’s deep holdings in modern and outdoor parks to open for the summer after the COVID-19 shutdown. opened last month on the mezzanine of contemporary art. Park owners Jason and Dawn Dlugokecki are planning for the AREA15, a purpose-built experiential art and The new structure was designed by Ste- future and are looking forward to creating new family memories entertainment complex. Museum Fiasco is Las ven Holl Architects, which also created the for generations to come with forthcoming additions and announc- Vegas' first Kunsthalle-style museum, a term 2012 master plan for the expansion of the ments already in the planning. which refers to a museum that is a noncol- museum campus. With more than 100,000 •funtimespark.com lecting institution presenting art on loan from square feet devoted to galleries, the build- other institutions or individuals. ing increases the museum’s overall exhibition The first exhibit is called Cluster, an award- space by nearly 75%. winning installation by Playmodes Studio. The The trapezoidal concrete building is no- exhibit pushes boundaries in light, technology table for its porosity, with seven gardens slic- and creativity in a large-scale audio-visual ex- ing the perimeter. Two pedestrian tunnels link perience, presenting an interactive show that the Kinder Building to the museum’s Caroline engages the senses. Wiess Law Building across the street and to The virtuosic play tells a story through a the Glassell School of Art, which was also de- collection of lights that strobe in harmony with signed by Holl and completed in 2018. the extraordinary soundscape. The 360-de- The first tunnel features a series of three gree experience explores the chaotic feeling chromatic chambers by the artist Carlos Cruz- of being inside the kernel of a glitchy comput- Diez. The other tunnel installation, by Olafur er processor. Eliasson, is using 19 light fixtures to immerse A relocated Tubs of Fun ride from Santa's Village Azoosment • the viewer in a live-action, alternately yellow- Park was just one of several additions to Funtimes Fun Park Dippin' Dots Ice Cream announced dur- or purpled-tinted, film. in 2020. COURTESY IRM December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 15 ZDTs acquires historic art from Playland Park for event building AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected]

SEGUIN, Texas — ZDTs owners Sarah and Danny Donhauser are no strangers to artwork for their small amusement park. The indoor arcade and snack bar boast incredible murals painted on the walls. In 2016, the park opened Turning Point, an event space for group outings. In 2020, the owners added something of historic flair. Two pieces of artwork that were displayed at Playland Park 32 miles away in San Antonio were discovered by Samuel Ehrlich, a collector and appraiser. He knew these special pieces needed the right home. Playland Park oper- Sarah Donhauser and art collector Samuel Ehrlich stand near a work of art (above left) that was part of signage at Playland Park, a ated from 1940 to 1980. One of facility that closed 40 years ago in San Antonio. A second piece (middle) was determined to also be from Playland Park. Playland’s its greatest claims to amusement Rocket was relocated to Knoebels Amusement Resort as Phoenix (above right). COURTESY ZDTS; AT/TIM BALDWIN park history was its wooden roller coaster built by Herb Schmeck Today for Best Wooden Coaster in and on the wall for other coaster At a recent event with American screams into a banked turn. The of Philadelphia Toboggan 2018 and 2019, the last two years enthusiasts to enjoy. This would Coaster Enthusiasts, one of the historic amusement park signage Company in 1948. Dubbed The that category was voted on by a also keep the piece local so that he attendees was able to confirm is one more distinct attribute to Rocket, it could have been lost panel of experts. can come by and visit it.” that it was indeed a portion of give the event space character. forever when the park closed in “We bought the artwork in The two pieces stand 10 and Playland because of some docu- “We promised [Ehrlich] 1980. However, Dick Knoebel December — not a good time of 11 feet tall. One was clearly evi- ments she was able to obtain. we would not sell it,” said of Knoebels Amusement Resort year for us to spend money, but dent as artwork from Playland as The Turning Point building Donhauser. “Though he has defied naysayers in his attempts it was pre-pandemic,” said Sarah a child is seen riding a rocket. The was named for its location adjacent other amusement-related art, to relocate the wooden coaster. Donhauser. “Sam Ehrlich, the art other sign’s origin was in question to the park’s notable Switchback now is not the time for us to It opened in 1985 and has consis- dealer, gave us a really good deal as the words Kiddie Land were coaster from The Gravity Group. invest. However, he will con- tently ranked as a Top Ten coast- despite its value to give it the right painted on it. It was unsure if A bar counter separates patrons tinue to look for other pieces er. Phoenix has won the Golden home, knowing that it would be that was an area of Playland or a from riders zooming by with rail- to decorate Turning Point with Ticket Award from Amusement in the hands of coaster enthusiasts different defunct park in the area. ing and Plexiglas as the coaster when he comes across deals.” 16 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 Funplex Myrtle Beach FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT holds ground breaking CENTRAL AT: John W.C. Robinson Funplex CEO Brian [email protected] Williams reviews construction Pat and Lisa Ciniello, owners of Lehigh Valley in Pennsylvania is open- drawings for the HeadPinz Entertainment Centers in ing its first Urban Air Adventure Park on forthcoming Myrtle Florida, were hoping to expand and build December 5. The indoor amusement park Beach location. FastTrax Entertainment in Fort Myers. will feature go-karts, trampolines, climbing COURTESY FUNPLEX However, the new construction was put on walls and and arcade. hold by the pandemic. The park occupies 64,000 square “That was sort of scary to try and do feet of space that previously housed The during this particular point in time,” said Bon-Ton department store in The Shops Ciniello. “We put everything on hold up at Trexlertown. It's 20,000-square-foot, there.” multi-level go-kart track will be one of its The COVID-19 pandemic had shut centerpiece attractions. down the Zoomers of Fort Myers, Florida, In response to the coronavirus pan- in mid-March. By mid-July, then-owner demic, the business has implemented a Mike Barnes just couldn’t handle the chal- variety of enhanced cleaning procedures lenge brought on by the novel coronavirus and safety precautions, including limiting any more. The Ciniellos opted to purchase the number of guests, taking the tem- the Zoomers location from Barnes for $2.8 peratures of staff and guests upon arrival million and renovate it into a FastTrax. and having dedicated sanitation team MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — A transformation is taking place Renovations began in the fall to trans- members wipe down frequently touched to the parking lot located on North Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle form Zoomers into FastTrax, which will equipment. Beach. Just steps from the beach, sitework has begun on the new retain some of the park rides and the • Funplex Myrtle Beach. indoor arcade with about 80 games. But In the spring of 2021, Topgolf Promising a big punch in a compact footprint, Funplex Myrtle Ciniello is spending about $6 million to Entertainment Group will open its fourth Beach was designed to maximize every square foot. Tropically upgrade the rest of the park. location in the state of Georgia in Buford. themed, Myrtle Beach’s newest edition will feature seven family- All of the gas-powered go-karts have Construction is already underway on the thrill rides surrounding a walk-up bar and restaurant. been replaced with electric-running cars two-level, 72-bay venue. The new location- Designed for families and thrill seekers alike, rides will instead. A new, electric-powered bumper will feature climate-controlled hitting bays be themed to match the Grand Strand beach vibe and include car attraction will be added. Fresh coats of all designed for any age group. the tallest, interactive Tower Planes (Visa) ride on the market, paint will be applied to the existing roller • a first-of-its-kind in North America. All rides will be encom- coaster. The miniature golf course will be Altitude Trampoline Park and passed by the track of a custom Big Air Coaster (Visa). All improved. Duck-pin bowling will also be Fitness Center of Spokane, Washington, attractions were provided in deals brokered by Rides 4 U of added with seven bowling lanes installed reopened in September, despite Governor Somerville, New Jersey. inside on the second floor. Jay Inslee's orders to remain closed. Two “The Funplex Myrtle Beach has been a long time in the mak- • months later, the business was given a ing,” said Funplex CEO Brian Williams. “And we are excited In spring 2021, a new TAG e-kart- $10,000 fine. to finally break ground on our next generation of family fun!” ing and amusement center will open at "Park owners said they knew exact- Off-the-Coast Beach Bar and Grill, Funplex Myrtle Beach’s Sainte-Thérèse, Quebec. There will be ly what they were doing and said they new bar and restaurant, will feature signature food and drink three karting tracks, a laser tag arena, six understood the risk of getting fined. They options just steps from the beach. This two-sided, walk-up bar axe-throwing lanes, six bowling lanes, a did not care," Altitude General Manager and restaurant will offer eight domestic and local draft beers, Triotech 7D interactive cinema, interactive Kenadee Gadish said. custom frozen drinks and traditional bar and seafood options. trampolines, a VR experience and many "Because for us, It doesn't make sense The general contractor selected for the new amusement arcade games plus a climbing wall. to stay closed — we've already been park is family-owned Chancel HRT, Inc. The architect is Nathan The location will cover 65,000 square closed for six months," Gadish explained. Rapp of Insight Design Architects, LLC with engineering and feet of a new building in Plaza Sainte- "And at that point, we just decided that it design work provided by Myrtle Beach-based Development Thérèse, which is currently undergoing was time for us to be open." Resource Group, LLC. a major makeover by the MACH Group. After losing six months of income, Rezoned as an “amusement zone” last year, The Funplex The location is an $18m investment Gadish said the owners reopened the design received Myrtle Beach Community Appearance Board between race drive Alex Tagliani and a indoor park, but an inspector showed up approval in June and began in mid-November with plans to number of partners. less than a month later. complete construction and open in Spring 2021. “I think of all the young people and "They told us that we needed to shut •thefunplex.com thrill seekers who want to let off steam down, just because of our business classi- and get their adrenaline flowing,” said fication," Gadish added. "We were in their Tagliani. “The TAG center will be the new system as a family entertainment center generation recreational center for choice; instead of a fitness center." an exhilarating place for an outing and as • the first multi-level electric karting center Vennersys announced the launch of a in Canada. I see it as a springboard to new, content-rich website. The new web- eventually develop talents that will shape site contains information on the attraction the future Quebec karting champions.” industry, case studies from the company's The karting tracks will consist of one customers and blogs designed to help for adults, one for children and a super attractions. track combining the two in a half-kilome- Vennersys's integrated ticketing and tre length. The karts are imported from EPOS system provides benefits for fam- Italy and are 100% electric. They will ily entertainment centers. FECs can eas- The new Funplex Myrtle Beach will feature seven rides when feature digital steering wheels, bumper- ily plan and arrange an array of events in it opens in 2021, including an interactive Visa Tower Planes integrated sensors for safety and a boost VenposCloud including birthday parties, ride, as well as an SBF Drop N' Twist tower and an SBF button for acceleration. seasonal events, school bookings and cor- Reverse Time. The entire facility will be encompassed by a • porate bookings. unique Big Air Coaster, also from Visa. COURTESY FUNPLEX December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 17 Unique Badlands mini golf course District 850 entertainment from Adventure Golf proves popular center opens in Tallahassee

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — using windmills, drilling for oil tractor excavate the hillside site Medora, North Dakota is a popu- and other characteristics of the for the back nine holes according lar tourist town, steeped in history region. There’s even a hole pay- to Adventure Golf’s initial de- and situated at the entrance to the ing tribute to the Bully Pulpit sign and install a retaining wall. Theodore Roosevelt National Golf Course — the full-sized big Adventure Golf then handled the Park. In 2019, the Theodore Roos- brother 18-hole golf course just final grading to add contours, evelt Medora Foundation decided south of Medora. The name Bully inclines and some significant to replace its 1970s era Little Bully Pulpit was inspired by Theodore downslopes for the concrete con- Pulpit 18-hole miniature golf with Roosevelt who used the moniker struction of various holes. a new one, the foundation reached to describe the U.S. Presidency. “Probably the hardest thing out to Adventure Golf and Sports “The course turned out re- was, because of that retain- (AGS) to expand the course by ally well,” stated Slauter. “It was ing wall where it has different COURTESY AMUSEMENT having the new front nine holes a great collaboration with Ad- heights, Adventure Golf had to ENTERTAINMENT MANAGEMENT encompass the entire space of the venture Golf to get some of the layout holes and build it in cer- original mini-golf area as well as custom items and fit it around tain ways in order to get mate- TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — District 850, a next-generation en- building the back nine holes into the pool and on the hillside, in- rials in to install the holes and tertainment and dining venue opened its doors in mid-Novem- a Badlands hill across the street cluding the ‘slant house.’” The make the holes fit the terrain,” ber. The 45,000-square-foot bowling-anchored venue hopes to from the original mini golf loca- “slant house” refers to its pos- explained Slauter. redefine entertainment for Tallahassee by combining a premium tion. The new mini golf course is ture on the hillside and is a sepa- “Our goal was to have it dining experience with a dynamic portfolio of interactive and twice the size of the former one. rate attraction from the mini golf look like the miniature golf holes immersive attractions. “One of our objectives was course. Other aspects of the proj- were just dropped into the natu- Developer Nilesh Patel selected industry consultant to make the course feel more ect included a zipline above the ral badlands terrain of the hill,” Amusement Entertainment Management to spearhead the like it belonged in Medora mini golf course, along with a added Slauter. “It was important project’s development, including the formulation of the business — to have some of that Bad- proposed lazy river and walking to manage the water that was case, investment strategy and coordination plan. The three-year lands topography,” said Kin- trail above the back nine holes. coming down the hill, keeping it undertaking included the ground-up construction of the facility, ley Slauter, the Burning Hills “Medora is a special place off the golf holes.” No pipes or which has been designed to support family, adult and corporate Amphitheatre manager for the in this country and, while it was other manmade materials were users with generous private event, conference and lounge ar- Medora Foundation who was challenging to build a course on used for water drainage. The eas. A chef-inspired menu and fully themed interior promise an also tasked with overseeing the a hillside with a number of soil, sub base of crushed stone serves experience that exceeds expectations. design and construction of the water drainage and concrete as the water runoff control. •aemllc.com new miniature golf course. build issues, our team made it “Early in the pandemic, The course theme is built happen,” said Scott Lundmark, from Mid-March into early around the history of the region. president of AGS. “In fact, since summer, North Dakota was in Boomers Parks reopens Sponsored panels at each tee we were working during the a really good place in terms of state the name of the hole and outbreak of the COVID-19 pan- a minimal number of cases and Speedzone Los Angeles help tell the story of the area. demic, there was a period where not a lot of community trans- For example, players must putt our crew never left the construc- mission. The town was quiet CITY OF INDUSTRY, through a large stone chimney tion site or the nearby motel because visitors and activities Calif. — Speedzone Los structure on hole 8. The chim- rooms where they boarded. are very seasonal,” said Slaut- Angeles reopened November ney represents the Medora Meat Food was brought to them.” er. “We were able to have the 11 to provide fun and relief for Packing Plant built in 1883 by During the design process, crew out and everything went Los Angeles area residents. the Marquis de Morés. Through “There was a lot of back and smoothly. The construction site With ongoing uncertainty since March, there have been limited the use of refrigerated railroad forth with Adventure Golf,” was a quarantined area for a options to get out of the house and engage in fun activities cars, de Morés was able to dress says Slauter, “particularly re- time, but [AGS] were able to do and ship beef directly to the east lated to fitting the course at the their work. We had an unusual with friends, peers and loved ones. Speedzone has adapted its coast, effectively cutting out the bottom of that hill and making situation where the hotel rooms operations to meet California’s state and county guidelines and previously required Slauter- sure we had what we were look- for the crew were adjacent to the continues to be a destination for a fun-filled outing. houses in Chicago — a revolu- ing for — both a good flow of the work site. So they were able to Some of the park’s operations officially reopened tionary concept in 1883. course, but also getting some of live in one pod for a few days. Wednesdays through Sundays with reduced capacity for social Other hole elements pay the holes higher to change the Fortunately, that was only for a distancing and enhanced health and safety measures. Speedzone tribute to the pre-Ice Age forest viewpoint around the top.” few days and then regulations offers go karts, mini golf and outdoor dining. of the area, the Wind Canyon of While the front nine holes re- changed and no longer required Guests and staff are temperature-checked upon entering the the Theodore Roosevelt National placed the original course site on a quarantine of workers.” park and all team members have been given personal protective Park, native Indian tipis, bison, virtually flat ground next to the The well-received course gear for every shift. Rides, bathrooms and high touch areas are early wagon and railroad trans- Badlands Motel pool, the Medora opened to the public on June 20. rigorously cleaned throughout the day and numerous, accessible portation, generating energy Foundation had a general con- •agsgolfandsports.com sanitation stations are placed throughout the park. “We are providing our guests with a much-needed day The "back 9" of the new “Little Bully Pulpit” of fun. We know that means instilling confidence in them miniature golf course is built into a Badlands that we are going above and beyond to provide a clean, safe hill. Designed and installed by Adventure Golf place for fun,” said Tim Murphy, CEO of Boomers Parks. and Sports, it’s a family-friendly activity for “These enhanced safety protocols have become the normal the popular tourist town. for our team members. They are happy to be back at work and COURTESY ADVENTURE GOLF AND SPORTS helping to provide guests with a happy experience in such uncertain times.” Boomers is comprised of eight parks: six family entertainment centers and two water parks. All locations are currently open to the public including: Boomers Irvine, Livermore, Modesto and Santa Maria; Boomers Boca Raton; Speedzone Los Angeles; Sahara Sam’s Water Park in West Berlin, New Jersey and Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park in Destin, Florida. As directives come out from their respective states, Boomers Parks will comply and open or close attractions as indicated to ensure guests can confidently enjoy their visit. •speedzone.com 18 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 Greater Gulf State Fair extends run, attendance remains strong AT: B. Derek Shaw [email protected]

MOBILE, Ala. — “2020 gave us many challenges to overcome. Our first weekend was over shadowed by Hurricane Zeta’s arrival on the Gulf Coast, forcing us to open one day later than planned. But, overall, our decrease in attendance can be attributed to the COVID- 19 epidemic that has domi- nated news cycles as well at conversations,” said Joshua Woods executive director of the Greater Gulf State Fair. Attendance at the 66th annual fair, that was extended two additional The 2020 Greater Gulf State Fair was extended two days to cut down on crowding due to COVID-19. NAME held the days, came in at 73,933 com- midway contract with ride revenue only down 1% from the previous year. There were 58 rides, of which 24 were kiddie pared to 89,722 in 2019. The ones, along with 44 game joints and 12 food stands. Practices and protocols used at the Mississippi State Fair where NAME 10-year average attendance also played were adopted in Mobile. The fair is an operation of the Mobile Jaycees, a national leadership training and civic is 100,000. Capacity was organization open to people below the age of 40. COURTESY GREATER GULF STATE FAIR, SKOOTER KOREK, NAME capped each day, so additional days were added to Gulf State Fair was only cut down on crowding. down 1% compared to the For the 16th time, prior year. “In this day and North American Midway age, this is a testament of Entertainment (NAME), hope for the fair and out- provided the amusements door industry. What hap- at the fair operated by pened there [Mobile] will the Mobile Jaycees. They give people a lot of hope. offered 58 rides, of which This could set the tone,” said 24 were kiddie ones, along Greg “Scooter” Korek vice with 44 game joints and president of client services 12 food stands. The Amor for NAME. Express (Wisdom Rides) “We are proud of our Himalaya was new to this long-term relationship with fair. The three most popu- NAME as our midway pro- the largest midway on the lar rides included Star vider. Thank you to Danny Gulf Coast, something we Dancer (Technical Park), Huston and his team for at Greater Gulf State Fair Crazy Mouse roller coaster, pushing forward with the are proud to present to our (Zamperla,) and Mega Drop season despite all the obsta- patrons,” said Woods. (Fabbri Group). cles in their way. More than Korek was pleased with The ride midway rev- ever, we are happy to say the fair operation. “They are enue is confidential per con- that in the midst of 2020 they tract; however the Greater were able to again provide 4See GULF, page 20

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Email: [email protected] 1305 Memorial Avenue | West Springfield, MA 01089 20 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 GULF Continued from page 18 a great bunch of people, with MIDWAYSCENE youthful and bright ideas. AT: B. Derek Shaw The Mobile Jaycees [are a] [email protected] “whole bunch of young The San Diego Fair is currently solicitating donkeys are on loan from Eureka Mohair Farm people putting on a great Request for Proposals for a single, new midway in Tollhouse, California. They will be on the event.” (Note: The United provider for next year. Previously it operated property through December, returning in March States Junior Chamber, also as an independent midway. In 2019, a total and work until the annual OC Fair in July. known as the Jaycees, is of 77 rides were brought in via 17 different • a leadership training and operators. At that time, it was the third largest Dr. Sally Nolt, president of the civic organization for peo- our goal of developing rela- independent midway, behind the State Fair of Pennsylvania State Association of County ple between the ages of 18 tionships instead of transac- Texas and the Minnesota State Fair. The RFP Fairs (PSACF), recently presented an update and 40.) tions. We focus on building is for all rides, games, food and digital ticket- in Fair Talk, the PSACF quarterly newsletter Woods shared what sets relationships in every aspect ing. After 2021, there are up to two, two-year about fairs around the Commonwealth. “Sadly, this fair apart from others. of what we do.” options that may be exercised at the discretion the 2020 Pennsylvania fair season has come “We are a fair that plays in a The fair had multiple of the 22nd District Agricultural Association, to an end with 103 canceled or modified fairs smaller market compared to COVID-19 options. “We for a maximum total of five years. and only five fairs operating. I would like to our peers around the coun- had four detailed plans and The RFP sent out December 1 is due back by thank Harry Reffner and the other members try, yet we have one of the were able to execute those at January 6, with the winning proposal announced of the PSACF Board for their unending dedica- best midway presentations any point. When game time by January 25. The 2021 San Diego County Fair tion and patience as we have dealt with issues from our midway company came, we executed a plan in will tentatively be held June 11-July 4. placed upon us by the COVID-19 pandemic.” of them all. In addition, our conjunction with NAME that • Officers have been in contact with the community buy-in and the provided patron, employee The new Florida inspection fee structure Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture and support of our event has and vendor confidence. For that is being implemented doubles the cost lobbyists, as they await the passing of SB1182. for many carnival operators. The fees fall under This will pay fairs at their 2019 funding rate and been on the rise over the last that, I will always be proud the jurisdiction of the Florida Department of also allow fairs to proceed with capital improve- five years. We attribute our to say we opened in 2020,” Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). ments that were submitted. “Please continue to said Woods. success to our organization- Florida is now believed to be the state with the keep in contact with your legislators,” said Nolt. al mission of creating mem- NAME had a plan they highest inspection fees in the United States. • orable experiences. As a had used for the Mississippi The fee restructuring creates a disincen- The Maryland Association of team, we want every patron, State Fair, held a month tive for midway providers to play the Sunshine Agricultural Fairs and Shows (MAAFS) concessionaire, entertain- prior. “We gave the consum- State. The new fees are $150 (kiddie ride); $200 held a virtual two-day convention in early er, vendor, carnival work- er a lot of confidence with (non-kiddie); and $300 (super amusement) with November. Borrowing on the famous er, and employee to have our safety protocols and pro- no annual permit fee for each ride. Under the Mary Poppins movie theme, it was called, a memorable experience as grams,” said Korek. previous system there was an annual permit “SuperCowaFairgilisticExpoAgradocious.” they attend or conduct busi- Phelps Concessions fee of $500 for each ride, along with per-event Eighteen of the 24 member fairs participat- ness with the Greater Gulf topped the list of best food inspection fees of $45 (kiddie ride); $90 (non- ed which included a total of 65 on-line attendees. State Fair.” offering with their Bacon kiddie); and $175 (super amusement). In 2019 “Considering the current environment, it went Special promotions were Bombs and Conecuh (a hyper there was a 20% increase, the first since 2010. well,” said 2020 President Bob Fogle. Typically, limited due to the pandemic local sausage) Cheese Fries. Hardest hit will be the small fundraising the in-person convention draws 165 people. and the fairs’ capacity plan. Highlights and firsts events at churches, high school festivals and fire Friday evening featured a talent showcase. On Halloween the tradition- included an online sales departments, that typically last only one week- On Saturday before the annual meeting, four al “College Night” promo- record, a “gear” sales record, end. This may force operators to not do them workshop times were offered with two topics tion when college students the first black female presi- because of the prohibitive fee structure. If there to choose from. Some of the subjects covered is no ride midway, this will greatly diminish their included Perserverance in Trying Times, Maryland with ID received free admis- dent of the board of direc- fundraising efforts. The new fees sit easier with Department of Agriculture update, The Long- sion was again offered. The tors and, of course, the first large operators who run longer in one spot. Lasting Effects of COVID on Fairs and Events, a second Wednesday featured hurricane during the fair. The new fees are also for permanent marketing workshop and additional topics. a flat $5.00 entry for every “In March and at times amusement parks. FDACS says in the past Keynote speaker Nancy Smith, IAFE chair, patron. throughout the year it companies were not paying the true costs of took folks on her personal fair journey, includ- The fair has a $150,000 appeared that we would not sending an inspector to inspect rides. ing highlights of visiting others in the fair family advertising budget, with a be able to accomplish our • during her year as chair. “It’s important for us, mix of guerilla-style market- mission. But, we found a The Ocean County Fair & Event Center, especially in this difficult year, to remember the ing, traditional (radio, print, way, although it wasn’t easy. Costa Mesa, California, is now using 18 Angora positive influence and difference that fairs make television, and billboards), We opened. We provided a goats as landscapers in challenging areas around our world. This year’s theme is 2020 as well as digital (social, and place to make memories in throughout the grounds. They are guarded Clear Vision. It may seem a bit out of order in readvertising aspects). “For 2020. Our heart remains with by a miniature donkey that keeps watch. The this COVID world; however we know from the 2020, our organization oper- all our friends that could not animals are hard at work solving problems by attendance and comments from our patrons that ated under the expectation find opening day in the cards clearing weeds and improving the soil on the have attended our food drive-throughs, live- of a 40% decrease in rev- this year,” said Woods. berm around Pacific Amphitheatre. stock shows and/or our fairs that were able to go enue. So, we planned our Korek was also happy “The berm is a challenging area for our forward, just how important we, as an industry, marketing campaign around with the outcome. “We landscaping crew and the goats are the perfect are to so many. Let’s encourage each other to that. Between tangible dol- trail blazed the path for the solution, but we do have some coyotes around keep focused on moving forward, to keep our lars, cashing in goodwill and future: you can open and be the property so the two miniature donkeys will vision clear, and to keep doing what we do best help protect the herd,” said Barbara Gregerson, and that is to make the best better. ” trade-out, we were able to successful.” ’ ’ landscape supervisor. “Not only will the goats Fogle said throughout this unusual year, maximize our advertising In addition to the Greater and donkeys eat the vegetation, they will fertilize MAAFS offered “chat sessions” with speak- spend and hit the demo- Gulf State Fair, the Mobile and break up the soil, preparing it for planting.” ers across the country sharing ideas. “This graphics and areas we felt we Jaycees is the parent organi- The berm has been divided into quadrants [method] opened our eyes on other ways to must hit,” explained Andrea zation of the Alabama Deep where the animals will be rotated to evenly disseminate information. We were introduced Little, marketing and com- Sea Fishing Rodeo and the work the land. In addition to the weeds and to options through technology.” munications coordinator. Azalea Trail Maids. grasses on the berm, the goats will have shel- The 2021 officer team includes President Sue “We are eternally grate- The 2021 edition of the ter, water and supplemental feed to ensure Sullivan, Montgomery County Agricultural Fair; ful to our media partners for Greater Gulf State Fair is they are getting a well-rounded diet. They Vice President, Debbie Friend, Garrett County stepping up and helping us scheduled to take place will also receive regular veterinary care like Agricultural Fair; Secretary, Janice Coroneos, in a year as bleak as 2020. October 29-November 7. the animals that reside year-round at nearby Baltimore County 4-H Fair and Treasurer Connie But, this also goes back to •greatergulfstatefair.com Centennial Farm. The goats and miniature Palmer, The Great Frederick Fair. December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 21 22 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 An unusual, but eventful 2020 for Powers Great America Midways AT: Ron Gustafson Special to Amusement Today

WHITEVILLE, N.C. — A curtailed season for Powers Great American Midways (PGAM) ended much the same way it began: the show was forced to remove its rides from a still date in Jacksonville, N.C. "We were halfway set up this week and they (state) closed us down," disappointed show owner Corky (Les) Powers told Amusement Today in early November from the carnival's offices and shop complex. The same thing happened this past spring when PGAM was in Jacksonville for its first spot — a still date — of the 2020 season. But the carnival did get open for a brief run before officials The Powers Great American pulled the plug due to the Midways attractions at the COVID-19 crisis. show's shop complex in "We were told we could Whiteville, N.C. (above). keep the food trailers and Show owners Corky and games, but no rides," Powers Debbie Powers (right) said of the have long been advocates November of industry associations dilemma. such as OABA. COURTESY "What irks RON GUSTAFSON me is that the state H-2B [temporary work visa] was going people back home and move to allow Powers the rides back to Whiteville," amusement parks to reopen Powers noted. "Everything at 30 percent capacity, yet that happened there and the location on our original 2020 Carolina State Fair, Raleigh, the show when you have to they closed us down. We costs — well it gets compli- route — not a one," the show since Powers secured the pay expenses on top of the con- had all of the proper permits cated to explain." owner noted. contract in 2006. tracted percentage obligations." — everything was in order." The carnival general- PGAM's circuit includes And even though social Jacksonville was slated ly opens in March with a the states of Connecticut, New It worked, but... distancing was stressed in to be the final stop of a short- strong route of still dates York, Maryland, Pennsylvania, The Delaware State Fair, the fair's guidelines, it was ened season for the 72-year- and festivals until the fair Virginia and North Carolina. according to Powers, was "virtually impossible" for the old veteran showman, who season starts in early July in South Carolina became a via- run under a blueprint so carnival to enforce it on the has been in the industry all Butler, Pa., a location PGAM ble option this year due to other fair managers and pol- fairgrounds. of this life. has held for years. fewer regulations related to iticians could witness how The latest closure was the pandemic. a large event could be held Into Virginia costly — perhaps as much as Route wiped out With the carnival parked without detrimental impact PGAM then headed into $50,000 — he said after trans- But the 2020 route was back at the shop and a hefty related to COVID. Virginia to play six two- porting the rides and con- a complete wash after the payroll of around 30 person- "Everybody looked at us week still dates it secured cessions to North Carolina pandemic brought much of nel eating away at capital, and Frank did a great job to bring in some additional following a successful run in the amusement industry to a PGAM was finally able to there," he said. "Safety mea- cash flow. Florence, S.C. screeching halt. get some equipment back on sures were all in place and Depending on the lot "We had to send our "We didn't play a single the road in late July. we did our thing (operating size, 10 to 14 rides were It was then that Powers the midway)." fielded along with food and supplemented Frank Yet, Powers emphasized game concessions and initial Zaitshik's Wade Shows dur- that the financial takeaway crowd sizes were limited to ing the Delaware State Fair was not a positive one. He said 250 persons. in Harrington (July 23-Aug. the carnival business needs to "We had gated fences, 1) after state officials there be aware of the downside of checked temperatures and allowed the annual exposi- situations like the one that counted people going in and tion to be held under strict existed in Delaware under coming out," Powers said COVID protocols. COVID protocols. of safety measures in place. It marked the first time He continued, saying: "I "We were able to maintain PGAM sent rides to the came to realize you cannot lines and did everything the Delaware location, which operate at any fair — small, local officials asked us to was under contract with medium or large — under do, including having local Wade Shows. However, those limited capacity condi- police for security." Corky Powers welcomes guests in the lobby of the show's Wade Shows has supple- tions. There simply was not shop complex. COURTESY RON GUSTAFSON mented Powers at the North enough revenue generated for 4See POWERS, page 23 December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 23 POWERS now. You can't make any Continued from page 22 judgment calls now, especially with talk of vaccines OABA President Greg Chiecko The show's diligence coming out for COVID." paid off as the capacity cap comments on state of industry was increased to 1,000. North Carolina State Fair WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Amusement Today contacted the "We didn't encounter a The largest void for Outdoor Amusement Business Association (OABA) for comments single person with a high PGAM this year was related to the state of the industry and Powers Great American Mid- fever and we checked out our October's North Carolina ways. President Greg Chiecko responded with the following: staff every day," he added. State Fair, which was offi- "2020 has been a very difficult year for our industry. We have "The lots could get jammed cially scratched during a been basically shut down for an entire season. However, we are a up in a hurry, but we had no press conference in late July. resilient group and many regrouped and found some way to generate issues whatsoever running The massive midway gener- income. Several of our members mobilized their food stands, some Chiecko in those Virginia locations." ally has around 100 rides created drive-in movies and some went into the sanitizing business. The carnival moved into and more than a million While none of these operations replicated a 'normal' season, most have been able to South Carolina and finished guests have passed through hold on. However, we cannot replicate 2020 in 2021." there with a "great run" in the gates five separate years He continued: "Powers Great American Midways has been a longtime supporter Florence in late October. since Powers acquired the of the OABA. Even through this most difficult year, they continue to support our in- The limited season and contract 15 years ago. dustry any way they can. Debbie has offered her time to be chair of our organization lot sizes also forced PGAM In 2010, the fair set an in 2020. Our board of directors has voted to retain our 2020 officers for 2021. Hope- to idle its larger attractions all-time attendance record of fully, she will be able to lead us to greatness in the year to come." for the season, including 1,091,887. its 33-meter Lamberink In an effort to keep some Ferris wheel, Wave Swinger segment of the fair going, world-class operation from He acknowledged that the off-season. (Zierer) and Flying Bobs organizers did have drive- the ground up and always some smaller carnivals went (Chance), to mention a few. through food days Oct. 15-25, offers support to others at a out of business due to the pan- Advocate of OABA "All of the rides we fielded the same dates the state fair moment's notice. demic and many others limped Corky and Debbie this year were one trailer, with was scheduled for, with more He owns and oper- along with partial routes. Powers have long been advo- the exception of the Mulligan than 20 vendors participating. ates PGAM with wife, Of particular interest, cates of industry associations Wheel," the show owner "We took our funnel cake Debbie, who is also chair he said, was that "South with OABA at the forefront. said. "We had our Downdraft trailer in and actually did as of the Outdoor Amusement Dakota never shut down. It "We're certainly one of the (Battech), F5 (KMG) and well as we've done at the fair," Business Association was business as usual there, largest fundraisers for OABA," Rock Star (A.R.M.) on loca- Powers said of the event. (OABA) Board of Directors. and they were fine. And out- Powers said of support the tion as they have better draw- Junior livestock shows When asked about the side of a storm, Pensacola show has for the organiza- ing capacity." were also held during the state of the industry, he said, (Pensacola Interstate Fair, tion. "During normal years, He continued to com- same schedule, but not open "We, like others, took a big Fla.) did very well." we raise in excess of $150,000 ment about the success of to the public. hit this year. I'm moving As for manufacturers and for them — perhaps upwards the Virginia spots, saying: Thankful that the carni- ahead and thank God we got suppliers he has had con- of $175,000. One jamboree "People were thanking us val did get in a handful of through it. We're doing a lot tact with, Powers said most we held raised more than for being there — everyone spots this season, he was of outside work (at the shop) are "hanging in there," with $50,000." was so sick of being tied up." quick to point out that one for other people. We've paint- some doing outside work as He asserted that every- Powers is also con- new ride had been delivered ed trailers, done some fabri- well in their diverse facilities. one who travels with PGAM cerned that event organizers for 2021 and he hopes to have cation and other jobs, which "They are doing the same maintains loyalty with the are looking too far down the a new Sky Hawk (A.R.M.) helps cover the light bill." thing (outside work) as we're show, but also OABA. road in regard to what 2021 for the Florida State Fair in "There's not a time in my all in the same boat," he noted. As for looking toward may bring. February. PGAM also has a life I couldn't find something And obtaining ride parts the future, Powers summed "I've had one long-time new gondola wheel being to do in my shop," he reflect- has not been an issue thus far. it up this way: "I'm an opti- festival already call and say built in Mexico to replace its ed. "I'm keeping my key per- While carrying 50 on mist. I always think positive they may operate under lim- Mulligan version sonnel on to work on our payroll during the short sea- and I'm going to move on ited conditions next year," equipment and have some son, he has cut staffing down like I'm going to have the he explained. "People come State of the industry other people's equipment to around 15 at the carnival's best year ever." from all over the East Coast As a fourth-generation coming in for work as well." huge Whiteville complex for •powersmidways.com for this event because of its to be involved in the carnival entertainment and parade industry, Powers is known and I have to wonder how and respected throughout they can make predictions the business. He built a

Corky Powers (left) was inducted into the OABA Hall of Fame alongside Frank Zaitshik (right). COURTESY RON GUSTAFSON 24 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020

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WATER PARKS & RECREATION  Liseberg's Oceana Water Park construction approved — page 26 / News Splash — page 26 WhiteWater is building new Jungle Bay water park in Dubai AT: Jeffrey Seifert [email protected]

DUBAI, UAE — Jungle Bay, a new water park currently under construction, is on track to open in January 2021. It is being built right on the beach at Mina Seyahi adjacent to two resorts. The water park will be exclusively available to guests of Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina and the Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina. The Mina Seyahi area boasts a massive stretch of beautiful white-sand beach and amazing views out across the azure waves of the Arabian Gulf. The water park’s design is inspired by the Cyclades, a group of islands in the Aegean Sea, between main- land Greece and Turkey. These overviews show the distinctive blue and white color scheme and buildings reflective of the architecture commonly Often considered some of found throughout the Cyclades Islands. COURTESY WHITEWATER WEST AND THE SANDERSON GROUP the most beautiful islands in the world, the Cyclades are known for rugged, sun- drenched outcrops of rock, white-sand beaches and snow-white buildings with blue rooftops situated in coast- al Greek villages. It is popular with tourists who prefer a qui- eter, simpler vacation without the usual tourist trappings. The water park plans to capture that charm and essence with clean Cycladic architecture, providing a min- imalist style with a bold water supervising parents in mind, delighted to be working ties firmly at the forefront of spectacular skyscrapers along park aesthetic. The design so they don’t need to worry with such a prestigious hotel the tourism offering in the Sheikh Zayed Road. The concept was developed by about keeping watch while brand on this exciting new emirate. We’re excited to be Westin is a recent addition Queensland, Australia-based the smaller kids play. project, which we’re sure partnering with WhiteWater, offering sea-view rooms with Sanderson Group, which has A small pneumatic wave will add immeasurable value having spent many months exceptional vistas of Jumeirah been specializing in thematic pool is capable of provid- to the property’s proposi- working with them to design Beach and the Arabian Gulf. park design and construc- ing different-style waves in tion for guests. Dubai is the the perfect water amenity for Both properties belong to tion since 1989. WhiteWater a clean, safe and controlled ideal destination for a water our properties, and we look Marriott International’s port- of Richmond, Canada, will environment. Ironically, the amenity as part of a hotel forward to our first guests folio. Guests at the Jungle Bay provide the slides and attrac- calm waters of the nearby or resort, with Mina Seyahi enjoying all the action in the Water Park must have a room tions including a Whizzard Arabian Sea at Mina Seyahi being a prime location with- park very soon.” at one of these two properties. multi-lane mat racer slide, has very little wave activ- in the emirate, and Jungle Mina Seyahi covers With almost year-round an open body slide and two ity as a result of its position Bay will only enhance the part of Jumeirah Beach and sunshine, blue skies and enclosed body slides includ- between the Palm and World already irresistible experi- the recently opened Dubai warm winters, Dubai has ing one with a 360-degree spi- manmade islands. ence for visitors.” Harbour, a world-class mari- emerged as an international ral. These slides will originate Guests can enjoy food Tolga Lacin, area gen- time destination featuring a business and tourist hub in from an impressive Grecian and refreshments through- eral manager for Marriott state-of-the-art cruise ship the Middle East. Along with lighthouse that will serve as out their day at the Refuel International, said: “the terminal and an 800-berth its beautiful beaches, Dubai is the focal point of the park. Café and Bar which will Westin Mina Seyahi and Le marina — one of the larg- already home to famous water A separate AquaPlay offer local favorites and spe- Meridien Mina Seyahi are est in the region, making it park resorts Aquaventure water play structure will cialty drinks. already two of Dubai’s most a natural draw for tourists. Water Park at Atlantis The have multiple slides and Mike Rigby, executive popular hotels, attracting Le Méridien is a well-known Palm and Wild Wadi at the interactive water elements vice president, Middle East thousands of guests year after five-star hotel located near Jumeirah Beach Hotel as well for kids and entire families. and India for WhiteWater, year. The addition of Jungle the Jumeirah Beach Residence as Laguna Waterpark and The area is designed with said of the project: “We’re Bay will place the proper- area in the shadows of the Legoland Waterpark. 26 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 Construction is approved for Liseberg's Oceana Water Park NEWSSPLASH AT: Jeffrey L. Seifert GOTHENBURG, Sweden — As part of Liseberg Amuse- [email protected] ment Park's plan to become a year-round destination, approval has been given to build Oceana Water Park. Plans for a new aquatic facility for San- Grapevine, Texas; Colorado Springs, Colo- The new park will cover 3.4 acres and include a 65,000- ta Barbara, California, were revealed in rado; and Scottsdale, Arizona. square-foot indoor water park. Oceana will have 14 slides, a November as part of a master plan to up- “Historically, this type of intimate, per- wave pool, current river and other aquatic activities. date Ortega Park. The $14 million renova- sonalized experience has been limited to the The park has been designed by one of Sweden’s leading tion project includes a 26,870-square-foot luxury travel sector, and we feel there is a architects, Wingårdhs, and Swedish builder NCC has been aquatic facility with a splash pad, a warm unique opportunity to enter this space with awarded the contract to construct the park. The water attrac- wading pool with a beach entrance, a pool a one-of-a-kind package that focuses solely tions will be designed and manufactured by WhiteWater. slide and play features, and a five-foot-deep on families,” Murray Hennessy, chief execu- The expansion represents an investment of SEK 1.06 billion noncompetitive lap pool. The facility will in- tive officer of Great Wolf Resorts, shared in a ($129.5 million). Financing has been arranged by the city and clude a welcome house with changing area, statement. “Now more than ever, families are is not dependant on proceeds from the amusement park itself. showers and restrooms. craving experiences they can share with close The renovation also includes a multi- friends and extended family, and this pack- Gothenburg City Council owns the park through its municipal sport artificial turf field for soccer, baseball, age offers that with the enviable backdrop of company Liseberg AB. The city purchased Liseberg in 1924 just lacrosse and more. our popular water parks.” one year after it was established as an amusement park. A multi-generational recreation zone • The amusement park has not been able to open a single day will include a 12,300-square-foot skate park Plans are proceeding for a new splash in 2020 due to the Coronavirus pandemic and has therefore seen with bowls, transitions and street skating. pad and playground at Fuller Park in Barnwell, Andreas Andersen no income. However, Liseberg's CEO, , made Basketball courts, cornhole, bocce ball, ping South Carolina. The city council has awarded it clear that the water park will be financed with funds other than pong and other game tables comprise the the construction contract to Bluffton-based those that the amusement park normally draws in. " The financ- recreation zone. A family plaza with a play- Churchich Recreation & Design. Final ren- ing is on its own, that is why we can move on," said Andersen. ground, shaded seating and bike racks will derings are being completed and construc- The water park represents the second phase of an expansion be located between the recreation area and tion is expected to get underway soon. started in October 2019 with the construction of the Liseberg the aquatic facilities. The nature-themed splash pad and Grand Curiosa Hotel. The hotel is on track to open in 2023 in The park area will be open from sun- playground are being funded by a 1% time to celebrate Liseberg's centennial. The water park is sched- rise to 30 minutes after sunset; the lap pool capital project sales tax. The city plans to uled to open a little later in the first quarter of 2024. includes lighting and will be open for eve- unveil the new splash pad and playground Both the hotel and the water park will have a completely ning swims. The sports field is also lit for in May 2021. unique theme, inspired by Gothenburg's history and the Swed- evening play. • ish East India Company. In the late 1700s and 1800s Gothenburg With the warm Southern California climate, A refurbished Arizona Biltmore in Phoe- was a European center for trade with China and the Far East. the facilities are able to operate year round. nix will reopen in 2021 with new pools, a wa- Although specific rides have yet to be announced, attrac- • terslide, a renovated spa and a fitness cen- tions are expected to include the first six-person raft ride in While construction of a new aquatic fa- ter. The historic property, with Frank Lloyd Europe, a mega-drop Master Blaster — possibly the largest in cility for Kirksville, Missouri, is ongoing, city Wright-inspired architecture closed in March the world, and a boomerang slide. An eastern-inspired water council members have authorized a change but plans to reopen in January. play structure and several small slides will be designed for to the original plans. The authorization al- According to the resort, the new Catalina families with children. A half-circle glass roof will cover most of lows for the construction of three large Pool will be reserved for tranquil experiences the indoor water park. Several of the high-profile slides will be shade structures for an additional $63,731. among new cabanas and a poolside bar. The reached from a separate, but attached, 130-foot slide tower that The multipoint shade sails will cover the resort's main pool, the Paradise Pool, will is designed to accommodate the tallest slides. As is typical, the concessions stand seating area and a por- have a new 65-foot triple waterslide tower bulk of the slides are positioned outside the water park ending tion of the pool decking. City staffers say the and a children's splash pad as well as 15 re- with an indoor splash pool. However, most of the Master Blaster structures should provide a more enjoyable imagined cabanas and a cabana restaurant slide appears to be inside the glass enclosure as well as the fi- patron experience. Adding the shade struc- for guests of all ages to enjoy. nale section of the boomerang slide. The indoor water park has tures now will alleviate the need to remove Renovations are taking place on the ho- a capacity of 1,250 guests which can increase to 1,750 during the concrete later in order to accommodate the tel's spa and fitness center, but those details summer months when the outdoor water park is open. structure foundations. will be released closer to the reopening date. In a press release, Liseberg's Chairman of the Board Christer The new facility, which includes a new • Holmgren said, "This is exactly what the destination Gothen- pool, lazy river and waterslides, is expected to Work on the Greenbriar Valley Aquatic burg needs to get the tourism industry going again after the Co- be completed in time for a May 2021 opening. Center in Fairlea, West Virginia, has resumed. rona crisis. The water park will be able to receive half a million • After breaking ground in February, construc- visitors a year and generate 185,000 extra guest nights to the city. Great Wolf Resorts is now offering buy- tion was brought to a halt as a result of the It will give new life to a crisis-ridden industry." outs at several of its indoor water parks. For Coronavirus pandemic. With the foundation winter 2020 to 2021 an "Own the Park" pack- laid in mid-November, the construction com- However, Andersen also pointed out, "The Liseberg expan- age allows families or quarantine pods to pany hopes to have the building up by De- sion project does not just represent an investment to counter this reserve the resort’s expansive indoor water cember. crisis — but an investment in Liseberg’s next centennial.” park after regular operating hours and have “We think we can get the steel and get — Jeffrey Seifert it all to themselves. a roof on and start construction of the pools With the package, guests will get two under that room,” said Tag Galyean, presi- and a half hours of park access includ- dent of the aquatic center. “There’s a lot of ing slides, water toys, and access to a re- coordination to do, of course, it’s a compli- freshment station with complimentary soft cated building.” drinks, water, iced tea, and snacks. The The $6 million center is being called a package also includes overnight accom- jump start to wellness, prosperity and eco- modations for up to 10 family suites, a nomic growth in southern West Virginia. welcome gift valued at up to $50 per each The idea for the aquatic center came as a suite, private breakfast for the group, and result of a student project at Greenbrier East all the usual complimentary services and High School five years ago. Architecture, en- amenities available at the lodge. gineering and business students collaborated The package begins at $10,000 and is on the project. available at Great Wolf Lodge locations in The completed project will have a com- As seen in the concept art, several high-profile slides are the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania; Wil- petition pool, recreation pool, therapy pool, boarded from a separate slide tower, with the bulk of the liamsburg, Virginia; La Grange, Georgia; splash pad and other amenities. slides positioned outside the water park. COURTESY LISEBERG December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 27 28 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020

BUSINESS & NEWSMAKERS  Universal's Endless Summer Resort opens — page 30 / IAAPA Virtual Education Conference — page 32 IAFE Virtual Vision offers education, networking and connecting

AT: B. Derek Shaw general fair news and inspira- [email protected] tion. At 10 a.m. there are four different concurrent chan- SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — nels participants can choose Organizers of the largest fair from. Should they want to see convention in North America another channel, all will be were hoping to offer a hybrid recorded for participant access convention, both in-person when convenient upon con- and on-line, when registra- clusion of Virtual Vision. tion opened in early August. Of course, the always Shortly into October staff real- popular happy hour takes ized that was place from 5 to 6 p.m. both not going days with an emcee and tal- to be a pos- ent showcases. sibility this Work began in earnest on year. “With this virtual option in late May, the added in the event it would be needed. uncertainty A team from IAFE met weekly regarding the Calico and bi/weekly, when needed, potential arc of the disease not to discuss, plan and implement only in Texas but across the the online event. “We have a United States over the next two top notch team. I encouraged months, it is the prudent thing Nearly 3,000 people attended the IAFE trade show and convention in 2019 (above). The in- them to think like a TV pro- to do,” stated International person show had 272 exhibitors occupying 385 spaces at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention ducer when putting the event Association of Fairs & Center. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has forced the 2020 version of the show to together,” said Calico. The team Expositions (IAFE) President reinvent itself as the IAFE Virtual Vision and be held online. AT/B. DEREK SHAW includes Kate Turner, CMP, and CEO Marla Calico. director of meetings, Steve Regulatory restrictions ’convention,’” said Calico. a lawyer and art historian, uses platform to schedule appoint- Siever, director of sales and made it impossible for 90% of Virtual Vision, taking place works of art to sharpen obser- ments with other attendees Lori Hart, CFE, director of edu- the member fairs to operate November 30 to December 1, vation and perception skills as and exhibitors,” said Calico. cation and member services. this season. This also affected is an entirely different expe- well as refine communication The best way to imag- The 2021 IAFE Convention related businesses and ven- rience which focuses first on of vision, mission, and strategy. ine Virtual Vision is to think and Trade Show is scheduled dors. On top of that, a large education. There are 28 differ- Another focus of the event using a TV news show model. to be held in San Antonio, percentage of projected partic- ent workshops (panel or single is the Marketplace where asso- Good Morning IAFE kicks off November 28-December 1. ipants are currently unable to presenter), covering all aspects ciate members can still con- each day with 30 minutes of •fairsandexpos.com travel either due to the quar- of fair operation, marketing, nect with the buyers of their antine restrictions upon return management and more. These services and products. Each to their state or country, or workshops will be available via exhibitor in the Marketplace employer travel restrictions. on-demand recordings through has the option to make that “We learned much from December 31. Additionally, experience very robust with our member fairs about cancel- there will be dozens of pre- video, live Zoom interaction, ling events and how to posi- recorded PowerTalks (15 min- downloadable content, etc. tion something ’reimagined’ to utes on a single topic by a sin- Finally, by utilizing Zoom replace it, as many did. The gle presenter) and Champion breakout rooms, IAFE will primary thing was that we had Circles (winners of the various be able to facilitate network- to protect the ’brand’ — any- contest categories talking about ing among attendees. “We all thing we did 100% virtually their entry into that contest) — know it is not the same as would not be the convention. It all available through the end of meeting in the hallway dur- would be different, but it would the year. Virtual Vision hours ing coffee breaks or at the address the top three needs of are 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. CST, both bar at the end of the day, but our members: education, net- days, with breaks included. it is a viable means of stay- The IAFE 2020 Virtual Vision will be presented entirely online working, connecting buyers Keynote Speaker is Amy ing connected. Additionally, with a focus on education, but buyers can still connect with and sellers. And thus we are not Herman who will talk about all registered attendees have members via exhibits that can include videos, live Zoom and even calling this experience the The Art of Perception. Herman, the ability within the event downloadable content. AT/B. DEREK SHAW December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 29

CONFERENCE: TRADE SHOW: &

L V V R LL L V V Game On: Re-Imagine Your Future Join us in Las Vegas for one full day of education and a two-day exhibition.

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For more information, contact Amusement Expo International Event Management, WT Glasgow, Inc., 708.226.1300 or amusementexpo.org

Co-sponsored by Co-located with 30 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 Universal Orlando's Endless Summer Resort set for December opening

Universal Orlando's ORLANDO — Universal’s Brought to life by the Endless Summer Endless Summer Resort award-winning Universal cre- Resort — Dockside – Dockside Inn and Suites, ative team, Dockside Inn and Inn and Suites will the newest hotel at Universal Suites will make guests feel be the second hotel Orlando Resort, will open like they have escaped to the in the destination’s to guests for the first time perfect sunset with the cool, value category. The on December 15, 2020. calm feeling of a beach retreat. new property is set Loews Portofino Bay Hotel It’s the destination’s eighth to welcome guests on at Universal Orlando will property in partnership with December 15, 2020. also resume operations on Loews Hotels & Co., provid- COURTESY UNIVERSAL December 1, 2020. Safety and ing Universal Orlando guests ORLANDO RESORT well-being protocols will with a variety of hotel options be in place throughout both for every style and budget, hotels, as they are across all of complete with exclusive theme Universal Orlando’s hotels and park benefits and a seamless theme parks. vacation experience. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel The resort's suites, which will welcome back guests with make up more than half the newly-renovated rooms and rooms at both Dockside Inn suites throughout the hotel. and Suites & Surfside Inn and Guests can relax in surround- Suites, sleep up to six and offer ings inspired by the beauty, guests an unrivaled value. romance and charm of the There is a kitchenette area, picturesque seaside village of a picnic table for meals and Portofino, Italy. hanging out, and a bathroom Dockside Inn and Suites with separate bath and vanity will be the second hotel in areas so multiple people can the destination’s value cat- get ready at once. egory, joining sister proper- Pier 8 Market offers casu- ty Surfside Inn and Suites. al dining for breakfast, lunch The extra-affordable resort and dinner within the resort will add 2,050 guest rooms, area. The menu features extra- featuring standard rooms and affordable options with most spacious two-bedroom suites. dishes under $12, ranging from And with the low $79 per night themed comfort foods to con- rate, the all-new hotel creates a venient on-the-go options. value experience. •universalorlando.com December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 31

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32 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 IAAPA Virtual Education Conference receives positive feedback Members eagerly anticipating return of Expo in 2021 AT: Pam Sherborne [email protected]

ORLANDO, Fla. — Staff of the International Asso- ciation of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) pivoted quickly after can- celing the in-person annual IAAPA Expo to put together Rick Hunter, president and CEO, ProSlide Technology, Inc., participated in the CEO Speaks session during the 2020 the organization's first virtu- IAAPA Virtual Conference, held November 16-18 (above). Amanda Thompson (below), OBE, ICAE, IAAPA chairman and al conference. managing director, Blackpool Pleasure Beach, U.K., also participated, following Hal McEvoy. COURTESY IAAPA The IAAPA Expo Virtual Education Conference, held ing a great deal of positive president and CEO, began the Nov. 16-18, was packed with feedback from attendees and three-day event by thanking industry professionals donat- the presenters," Storey said. all participants to this year's ing their time and expertise to "While we all missed being unique event. continue the IAAPA tradition. together in person in Orlando Amanda Thompson, Susan Storey, IAAPA for the IAAPA Expo, this Vir- OBE, ICAE, IAAPA chair- global communications, said tual Education Conference man and managing director they were very pleased with was a great way to bring the of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, this first-time conference. industry together." U.K., followed McEvoy. "We have been receiv- Hal McEvoy, IAAPA In a heartfelt first-day introduction, Thompson said: "Today we are going to pres- IAAPA Hall of Fame ent to you new and exciting The IAAPA Hall of Fame awards program honors those ways forward for our indus- who inspire their peers and colleagues around the world, try to come out of this CO- she has learned much about "Our industry is hurt- through their innovative contributions that leave a lasting VID pandemic." the world's regions that are ing," he said. "It’s hurting impact on the global attractions industry. "We are all learning," supported by IAAPA. from the presence of CO- Winners this year are: Thompson said. "We are all "We have all been work- VID-19 in our communities. sharing our experiences and ing together to make a better But unlike some industries Imagineer and Storyteller: we are all working together future for IAAPA, a stronger impacted by the pandemic, Tony Baxter to make a better future. Our new IAAPA, a way forward our industry is here to stay, Baxter started his career in 1965 as industry has had to take a big that we can all manage well and it’s here to grow." an ice cream scooper at Disneyland in leap of faith. We have had to and learn from the experi- Tilak Mandadi, execu- Anaheim, California. He became a Disney all learn new ways forward. ence we have been enduring," tive vice president, digital Imagineer in 1970 working on an array of Some of us have been open Thompson said. and global chief technology iconic attractions. He retired in 2013, be- and some of us, sadly, have In that first day of the officer, Disney Parks, - Expe ing named "Disney Legend." Baxter not. But these times are dif- conference, two keynote ad- riences and Products, ad- • ficult. They are difficult for dresses were presented. The dressed the virtual group lat- Innovator, Leader, Advocate: us all and we are facing them first was presented by Josh er in the afternoon. He gave a Greg Hale together. We will get through D’Amaro, chairman of Dis- glimpse into the future of the Hale joined Walt Disney World in 1988 as manager this. We will find a brave ney Parks, Experiences, and technological impact. of electrical and electronics engineering. new way forward and we Products. He delivered a Also on day one, honors That began a three-decade career that has will all learn everything that message of hope and inspi- were given to two park mem- had a lasting impact on amusement ride has happened." ration to the global attrac- safety around the world. She went on to say that tions industry. 4See IAAPA, page 33 In 2002, Hale became the first vice president and chief safety officer for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts and today continues to lead a global team Hale of ride design, operations, and maintenance professionals. He is a prolific inventor, and his name is on more than 80 patents worldwide. • Theme Park Visionary Mats Wedin Wedin entered the attractions industry in 1988, while looking for a new professional challenge. The opportunity to join Liseberg amusement park in Gothenburg attracted him, and within five years, he was promoted to CEO. Under his leadership and guidance, the park added innovative rides and attractions that transformed the guest experience. Wedin Pamela Landwirth of Give Kids The World delivered a keynote presentation on the third day of the virtual conference. COURTESY IAAPA December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 33

2020 IAAPA Service Awards The IAAPA Service Awards honor individuals for their outstanding contributions to the global attractions industry. This year’s winners are:

IAAPA Meritorious Service Award IAAPA Corrine Brindley, SeaWorld Continued from page 32 Parks and Entertainment, San Diego, California bers that have put in 50 years • supporting IAAPA. They were IAAPA Outstanding Morey's Piers, Wildwood, Service Award New Jersey, and Jolly Rogers, Andreas Andersen, Tilak Mandadi of Disney Parks gave a glimpse into the future of the technological impact. Ocean City, Maryland. COURTESY IAAPA Liseberg, Keynote speakers on day Gothenburg, Sweden two included: Rick Hunter, Kids The World, and Andreas conference, IAAPA presented virtual sessions. A daily ques- • president and CEO, ProSlide Andersen, president and 25 educational sessions with tion-and-answer segment IAAPA Lifetime Technology, Inc.; Sharon CEO, Liseberg. Landwirth topics ranging from finance gave members a chance to Service Award Aguillen, president, TCB spoke on the Give Kids the and information technology, ask questions and have one of David Bromilow, Mobaro, Productions and Sarah Cole, World Village and how dona- food and beverage, human their colleagues suggest solu- London, United Kingdom president and CEO, Glazer tions have been able to give resource, merchandising and tions and remedies. • Children's Museum. All wishes to over 175,000 criti- games, marketing and facil- Offered along with the IAAPA Young Professional three participated in the CEO cally ill children. Andersen ity operations. Virtual Conference was IAA- of the Year Award Speaks. It was moderated by addressed the virtual audi- Pop-up lounges through- PA's Buyers Guide that offered Charles Coyle Matt Heller, Performance ence about the rapid change out the week gave IAAPA companies the opportunities Tayto Park, Optimist Consulting. in attractions. members the opportunity to to show off their products. Kilbrew, Ireland. Heller posed questions Over the three days of the network with others in live •iaapa.org to the three on topics facing the industry and, of course, the pandemic was a focus. All three shared lessons learned along the way touching on topics from keeping employees working to employing zoom technology to stay in touch and to supporting employees' health both physically and mentally. "I actually ended up sending messages to our employees to make sure they knew mental health support was covered 100% by their insurance," Cole said. Hunter said keeping their employees was a very important mission for ProSlide even though they knew it would be hard. "We had at least half of our projects deferred after the pandemic hit," Hunter said. "But that was enough to be able to keep all our employees. "The spirit of this industry is unstoppable," he said. "Thank God for Zoom. There is nothing better, though, than in-person trade shows. I can't wait to see you all and give you all big hugs." The second day also saw the presentation of the 2020 IAAPA Hall of Fame recipients, 2020 Service Awards recipients and the 2020 Young Professional award. The third day saw keynote addresses by Pamela Landwirth, president, Give 34 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 MARKET WATCH BUSINESS WATCH

COMPANY SYMBOL MARKET PRICE HIGH LOW Disney reports Q4, prioritizes Disney+ 11/17/20 52-Week 52-Week ANAHEIM, Calif. — The Walt Disney Company (DIS) The Blackstone Group BX NYSE 57.69 64.97 33.00 swung to a fourth-quarter loss and saw revenue slide over last year, as the still-raging coronavirus pandemic continued Cedar Fair, L.P. FUN NYSE 35.65 56.70 13.00 to weigh on its theme parks, studio and media businesses. Revenue declined by 23% for the quarter and the company Comcast Corp./NBCUniversal reported a loss of $710 million. However, the results still came CMCSA NASDAQ 49.78 49.98 31.70 Media in better than feared, and the company’s nascent streaming service saw subscribers jump more than anticipated. Shares The Walt Disney Company DIS NYSE 144.50 153.41 79.07 jumped 5.9% in after-hours trading. “Even with the disruption caused by COVID-19, we’ve been Dubai Parks & Resorts DXBE:UH DFM 0.12 0.22 0.09 able to effectively manage our businesses while also taking bold, deliberate steps to position our company for greater long-term EPR Properties EPR NYSE 31.45 74.64 12.55 growth,” Disney CEO Bob Chapek said in a statement. “The real bright spot has been our direct-to-consumer business, which is Fuji Kyoko Co., Ltd. 9010 TYO 5130.00 5450.00 2080.00 key to the future of our company, and on this anniversary of the launch of Disney+ we’re pleased to report that, as of the end of Haichang Holdings Ltd. HK:2255 SEHK 0.41 1.09 0.38 the fourth quarter, the service had more than 73 million paid subscribers — far surpassing our expectations in just its first year.” Leofoo Development Co. TW:2705 TSEC 22.35 23.05 9.08 Given the impact of the pandemic on many of Disney’s legacy businesses, investors were poised to focus closely on growth at Disney+, the company’s one-year-old streaming MGM Resorts International MGM NYSE 26.42 34.63 5.90 service. Disney reported that Disney+ had brought on 73.7 million subscribers as of the end of the fourth quarter, topping Royal Carribean Cruises, Ltd. RCL NYSE 75.34 135.31 19.25 estimates for 65.5 million. Sansei Technologies, Inc. JP:6357 TYO 606.00 971.00 490.00 Fun Spot America receives award SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. SEAS NYSE 26.89 36.96 6.75 ORLANDO — The International Drive Resort Area Chamber of Commerce launched the Harris Rosen Philanthropic Six Flags Entertainment Co. SIX NYSE 29.78 46.86 8.75 Award in 2017 recognizing local businesses or persons who demonstrate exceptional philanthropic work. This annual award Tivoli A/S DK:TIV CSE 708.00 788.00 550.00 was given to Fun Spot America Theme Parks, as a result of the company's generosity through its Golden Rule Campaign. Village Roadshow AU:VRL ASX 2.45 4.10 0.77 The Golden Rule Campaign has crafted a culture of giving throughout the parks over the last 22 years, treating others the STOCK PRICES ABOVE ARE GENERALLY QUOTED IN THE FOREIGN CURRENCY IN WHICH THE COMPANY IS LOCATED way one wants to be treated. After receiving the Award, CEO John Arie, Jr., challenged the audience to adopt a simple seven-step Worldwide Markets: ASX, Australian Securities Exchange; CSE, Copenhagen Stock Exchange; LSE, London Stock Exchange; NYSE, New York Stock Exchange; NASDAQ, National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations; SEHK, Hong Kong Stock Golden Rule program molded after Love Works, by Joel Manby. He Exchange; SZSE, Shenzhen Stock Exchange; TSEC, Taiwan Stock Excange, Corp.; TYO/TSE, Tokyo Stock Exchange asked that over the next 21 days, they practice patience, kindness, —SOURCES: Bloomberg.com; Wall Street Journal trustfulness, selflessness, truthfulness, forgiveness and dedication. “These seven steps will make you a better person. It’s worked in our parks and has taken us above the rest. I’m truly proud of our team,” said Arie. In the last two years Fun Spot America has given more than $475,000 to local charities in Orlando. The park has also been the host for the Central Florida Region St. Jude’s National Run/ Walk. Other local charities Fun Spot employees fundraise for include Compassionate Hearts and Hands Foundation, cancer Universal Orlando Resort is offering a limited research, UCP and Autism Speaks. Past recipients of this award access evenings-only tour for guests who want to experience all the holiday include SeaWorld and Universal Orlando. entertainment with minimal wait. COURTESY UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk reopens, closes DIESEL PRICES SANTA CRUZ, Calif. — After opening for a single weekend — November 6 and 7 — rides and most other attractions at the Region As of Change from (U.S) 11/16/20 1 year ago Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk were closed amid a countywide East Coast $2.487 -$0.566 increase in coronavirus cases. The facility was the first amusement park to reopen in California under its recently released Midwest $2.339 -$0.632 COVID-19 protocols. Gulf Coast $2.180 -$0.612 Santa Cruz County on November 10 reverted to the red Mountain $2.490 -$0.742 tier of the state’s color-coded reopening system — indicating a West Coast $2.686 -$0.758 substantial risk of infection — after spending two weeks in the more moderate orange tier. California $3.240 -$0.763 Public health officials stated that the number of active CURRENCY cases in the county has doubled since late October. On 11/17/20 $1 USD = The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk announced the closure of 0.8441 EURO rides, mini golf, indoor arcades, its bowling alley and Neptune’s Kingdom entertainment center on November 11. Boardwalk offi- 0.7573 GBP (British Pound) cials were disappointed but not surprised by the decision. 104.59 JPY (Japanese Yen) “We anticipated the likelihood Santa Cruz County might move 0.9122 CHF (Swiss Franc) back and forth within tiers, and have prepared to adjust our opera- 1.3695 AUD (Australian Dollar) tions accordingly,” said Kris Reyes of Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 1.3095 CAD (Canadian Dollar) noting that the health and safety remains the park's top priority. December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 35 ON THE MOVE Six Flags Entertainment Corporation announced board term, which expires in 2022. Scott, who was steps to foster a greater emphasis on diversity within that Ron McKenzie has been named park president of appointed to the Cedar Fair board in 2010, stepped the association. the company’s flagship park, Six Flags Over Texas, and down effective Sept. 24, 2020, to In response to the global pandemic, Nevin success- Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in Arlington. McKenzie suc- focus on personal business interests. fully pivoted the Themed Entertainment Association’s ceeds Steve Martindale who retired “I’m delighted to welcome Louis programming from in-person to virtual, helping to after more than 45 years with the com- Carr to the Company’s board of direc- produce over 55 TEA Digital events, including the pany, 13 of them as park president of tors,” said Dan Hanrahan, Cedar Fair’s inaugural Thea Awards Digital Case Studies. the two parks. McKenzie has nearly chairman of the board. “Louis brings 30 years of experience with Six Flags. to Cedar Fair more than three decades Tigapo, the cloud-based arcade management He most recently served as marketing of executive leadership and senior Carr and monetization system designed for coin-operated director at Six Flags Fiesta Texas in management experience in the enter- machines, announced the hire of San Antonio and Six Flags Hurricane McKenzie tainment, media and advertising industries, and is her- Chris Vecchione as sales manager. Harbor in Houston. He also previously alded by his professional peer group for his work around Vecchione has 35 years of experi- served in the same capacity at Six Flags St. Louis. diversity, primarily with the African American community.” ence working primarily within the “We are thrilled to have Ron in this new role. His coin-operated entertainment, gam- proven track record of success, along with his exten- Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) Chief ing, and hospitality industries. sive industry knowledge, energy, and collaborative Operating Officer Jennie Nevin is stepping down after Most recently, as owner of MVP leadership style will serve him well as the park presi- seven years at the end of November. She will consult with Network Sales, Vecchione has rep- Vecchione dent of our flagship property,” said Six Flags SVP of TEA during the transition period. resented multiple providers of prod- Park Operations Bonnie Weber. “Jennie has been instrumental in the growth and ucts and services to the hospitality location owners, McKenzie began his theme park career in 1993, at stabilization of the TEA since she was brought on including arcade game sales, placements, and consult- Six Flags Fiesta Texas, where he juggled the full-time board seven years ago,” said Michael Blau, outgoing ing for fun centers, ATM sales and equipment for bar responsibility of group sales manager while attending President of the TEA International and restaurant businesses. Vecchione has also rep- college at the University of Texas-San Antonio, and Board. “She managed to formalize resented VR hardware and solutions for amusement earning a BA in Management. He enjoyed a brief stint and professionalize the TEA through locations and Sacoa’s cashless payment systems. in the hotel industry but quickly found his way back tremendous efforts, dedication, time “I’ve spent the lion’s share of my career in front to Six Flags, moving to Six Flags St. Louis, where he and unwavering commitment." of both street and FEC operators and locations so the served as group sales manager before being promot- During her tenure, Nevin stew- shift to selling mobile payment systems will be seam- ed to marketing director. McKenzie returned to the arded the TEA to achieve its goals less,” noted Vecchione. “I am excited by the tremen- Lone Star State in 2016, where he assumed the role of financial recovery, stability and Nevin dous opportunity to work with such a talented Tigapo of marketing director at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, in San to reach new levels of sponsorship team and help operators understand the real value of Antonio, prior to being promoted to this latest role. and membership growth. Nevin's work enabled TEA touchless payment systems.” to eliminate its debt, significantly increase annual “Chris’s extensive experience in many facets of Cedar Fair announced that Louis Carr has been income, establish a large operational reserve, more sales and operations in the amusement industry makes appointed to the Board of Directors of its general part- than quadruple its membership, expand its sponsor- him uniquely qualified to talk to operators and loca- ner, Cedar Fair Management, Inc., effective immediate- ship base, and dramatically enhance the quantity and tions about their concerns and present Tigapo’s solu- ly. Carr will serve the remaining portion of John Scott’s quality of its member events worldwide. She also took tions,” stated Ted Parsons. A full spectrum of family fun!

Small Footprint! Spinning Smiles! Interactive Rides!

PO BOX 638 • PLAINVIEW, TEXAS 79072 • (806) 293-1353 LARSONINTL.COM 36 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 Sue Nichols Independent Contractor, Sales Amusement Today INFLUENCE Sole proprietor of 5centride A view from the top… Sue Nichols is an independent contractor in sales at Amusement Today. She also is the sole proprietor 5centride, a business she created with her art talent. She water colors on canvas and has the art transferred to coffee mugs, tiles, tissue boxes, knick-knack boxes, compacts and other items. She also sells some of her originals. Accomplishments and affiliations… •Member, Outdoor Amusement Business Association (OABA) •Member, Showmen's League of America (SLA) •Member, International Independent Showmen's Association (IISA) •Member, National Amusement Park Historical Association (NAPHA) •Member, Furnace Art Guild of Dickson, Tennessee Nichols would not change a thing DICKSON, Tenn. — Over the last later in her life she would personally decade, members of the outdoor know the people that owned the amusement business industry rides at those fireman's carnivals, the attending the IISA trade show in Reithoffer family. Gibsonton, Florida, make time to stop Her family also regularly by Sue Nichols' booth. attended the Bloomsburg Fair, They stop to chat with their Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania. Every long-time friend while perusing her year her family made the annual trek merchandise of coffee mugs, tiles, with to Knoebels Amusement Park in tissue boxes, compacts, knick-knack Elysburg, Pennsylvania, to her dad's boxes and more, all adorned with her company picnics. artwork depicting a scene inspired by "I wasn't afraid of any rides," their industry. Nichols said. "I liked it all." Sometimes they can find one of She still has that affinity. She said their own rides or concession trailers on she will ride any ride at least once an item. Sometimes they will recognize and that includes the thrill of the another carnival's ride or trailer. 300-foot-tall Skycoaster at Fun Spot In addition, they may place orders in Orlando, Florida. took a few career tests that showed She also met young professionals with her that she will send at a later time. Nichols also had an art talent that she was, indeed, in the right field but, working for a trade publication Oh, and, yes, they can purchase she fed throughout high school by perhaps, with the wrong company. called Amusement Business. In 1988, an ad in Amusement Today from her enrolling in art classes. Trusting the results of the test, that company ended up hiring her since she works as an independent She began her college she took that leap of faith so many do away from National Ticket and she contractor for the trade magazine. education at a community college, along the way. She answered a blind continued in sales and travel. To Nichols, she is living the life she attending there for two years before ad for a job at a printing company that While working for Amusement loves. She is a salesperson at heart. She transferring to Kutztown University offered a company car and promised Business, she once again took up her loves the live entertainment industry, in Kutztown, Pennsylvania, for the a lot of traveling. artwork, primarily for relaxation. She particularly the outdoor mobile school's art program. She took the job and settled in concentrated on watercolors during industry: "It is so family oriented." "I ended up not liking it there," working at National Ticket Company those years. And even after leaving And she has found that her she said. "We were told what to paint in 1981, becoming the first woman Amusement Business in 2001 to art, while always being a source of everyday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m." sales representative at National Ticket. concentrate on being an independent relaxation, in its uniqueness, has She transferred to Penn State This was her first experience contractor with a couple of other become a lucrative side business for University, University Park, Pennsylvania, working in the live entertainment publications, she continued her painting. her, which she calls 5centride. putting her art on the back burner and industry. She fell in love with it. At first, she focused primarily on Nichols may have been surprised graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in That first year at National Ticket landscapes. She threw in a painting at some of her career decisions along Journalism and Advertising. she traveled to her first International of a bumper car one evening and the the way, but there are very few things She entered into an internship Association of Amusement Parks and rest is history. Since 2004, she has sold she would want to reverse. right after college graduation at a Attractions convention in Kansas City, thousands of pieces of artwork. Born and raised in Williamsport, local daily newspaper where she Missouri. There have been many more. She began selling ads for Pennsylvania, a community in the north had the opportunity to experience She also traveled to trade show Amusement Today as an independent central mountainous part of the state, different positions. fair conventions, baseball meetings, contractor in 2003. That is where she Nichols can recall stomping around "I was shocked to realize that I liked horse racing conferences, movie is today. midways with her grandparents, the outside sales the best," she said. theater conventions and arena She feels lucky to have been able parents, her two brothers and sister After her internship, she took managers conventions. to maintain her professional skills and at local fireman's carnivals. She even a job at a chain of local weekly She met carnival owners, fair her artistic talents. She knows it could ended up working the Cake Wheel newspapers in the Washington, D.C. managers and arena managers, have been just one or the other. game one week at one of these events area in outside sales. attributing many of these But the door opened for her and when she was 16 years of age. The job was stressful. She began introductions to her boss, Bill Alter, she walked in and hasn't looked back. She couldn't have known then that to question her career choice. She "who knew everyone." —Pam Sherborne December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 37

SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS  IRT making plans for 2021 — page 38 / 3DX offers unique scenic design — page 40 Palace Entertainment offers guarantee on season passes PITTSBURGH — As Palace Entertainment leisure venues across the United States launch their annual Black Friday promotions, each park is making a commitment to guests: they will get their money’s worth on 2021 season passes, even if the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the amusement and attractions industry. From National Historic Landmark Kennywood to California’s Raging Waters Los Angeles and the popular Noah’s Ark Waterpark in Wisconsin Dells, all 21 Palace Parks are offering a Dayback Guarantee on 2021 season and annual passes. If a park’s 2021 operating schedule is disrupted by an unexpected closure for reasons related to COVID-19, passholders will have their passes extended into the 2022 Season for an equal number of operating days at no additional cost. They will also receive a prorated renewal offer for the rest of 2022. “I can’t say enough how much we appreciate our guests COURTESY who have supported our parks through the difficulties of the GARNER HOLT EDUCATION THROUGH IMAGINATION past year and the uncertain times still ahead,” said Palace Chief Operating Officer John Reilly. “As we look to 2021 and hope for better conditions, we want our guests to know they will not only have a clean, safe and fun experience with us, we will make Garner Holt Productons creates virtual sure they receive proper value for any season pass purchased.” In addition to the Dayback Guarantee to safeguard guests’ experiences for schools across country investment against future impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, REDLANDS, Calif. — careers are all in high demand Palace is offering a company-wide season pass for the first Animatronics are essentially across a wide range of industries time in its history. The Platinum Pass will allow patrons to visit moving life-like art with fascinat- and offer students a real-life con- any of Palace’s 21 U.S. parks — from Story Land in Glen, New ing characteristics and abilities nection to career exploration. Hampshire to Hawaii’s Sea Life Park. Palace Entertainment that coax the imagination one step The workshops and field boasts a unique portfolio including America’s oldest operating closer to belief. Realistic move- trips put a relatable face on careers amusement park, Lake Compounce, and the reigning Best ments, costumes and sounds such as: engineering, architecture, Family Park, Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, as work together to transform fan- computer-aided design, fabrica- recognized by Amusement Today’s 2019 Golden Ticket Awards. tasy into reality. Regardless of tion, welding, computer program- The Platinum Pass also includes water parks in North Carolina, the outer believability, the real ming, animation, audio-visual New York, New Hampshire and California, as well as the Miami magic is everything you cannot students that are built together production and woodworking. Seaquarium in Florida. see. Never has there been a great- with a live expert. The virtual These virtual experiences Retailing at $159.99, the Platinum Pass also offers special- er partnership between art and platform removes geographic help students begin to align their ized benefits based on the park it is purchased through. engineering, creativity and math, barriers and makes it possible to interests as they visualize them- palaceentertainment.com • technology and imagination. provide these virtual opportu- selves in careers they may not Inspired by the work of nities to schools all over the U.S. have understood or known about. Garner Holt Productions, Inc., The projects are based on Imagination and excitement are Guests purchasing the world’s largest manufac- animatronic concepts that com- the result as they explore their season passes turer of theme park animatron- bine the STEAM areas of science, future life and career. ics, Garner Holt Education technology, engineering, art and The great value in this for the Palace through Imagination is creat- math in an engaging, interactive, conceptual introduction to the Entertainment ing solutions to the inherent fun, and creative way. Inside the inner workings of animatronics family of parks are challenges of distance learning. virtual field trips, students see represents a broad range of stu- offered the security In partnerships with schools first-hand all of the different and dent interests. In other words, of the chain's and educators, Garner Holt distinct careers involved in build- there is something for everyone Dayback Guarantee. Education through Imagination ing animatronics. From concept in animatronics. This fascinat- COURTESY DUTCH offers hands-on learning experi- to completion and from spark to ing world is an excellent way to WONDERLAND ences through its virtual field spectacular there are 50 specific stimulate the minds of our next trips and workshops. Each vir- STEAM careers collaborating and generation’s dreamers, innova- tual experience is paired with playing distinctive roles in bring- tors, and entrepreneurs. an activity kit sent directly to ing an animatronic to life. These •garnerholt.com 38 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 International Ride Training planning a different, yet busy 2021 AT: Pam Sherborne works Waterpark at Ameri- iROC Instructor Certification, [email protected] can Dream, East Rutherford, they will be offered the - op New Jersey. portunity to participate in the NASHVILLE, Tennessee — "Holding regional Ride full array of virtual course of- In light of the continued chal- Camps in 2021 will allow ferings, including on-demand lenges being imposed by the our clients to attend smaller sessions and live course broad- novel coronavirus during the in-person gatherings in ac- casts. This structure allows IRT fall, International Ride Train- cordance with state and to offer top-of-the-line training ing (IRT) has planned a differ- local public-health recom- content to facilities that aren’t ent type of International Ride mendations," said Patty Bea- yet iROC-certified at a greatly Operator Certification (iROC) zley, IRT co-owner. "(It also reduced cost as compared to Safety School Ride Camp for will) allow most attendees previous Ride Camps. 2021. This is the 10th anniver- to choose a regional Camp Next year's Ride Camps sary of the iROC Ride Camps. within reasonable driving will continue the focus on top- IRT had announced last distance to minimize air trav- ics including IRT's 10 Critical month it would hold a blend el while still replicating the Components of Ride Opera- of in-person educational op- hands-on experience that is tor Safety, Guest Service and portunities as well as a virtual Ride Camp’s hallmark.” Efficiency, Operations in a option. There are to be five in- Cindee Huddy, another International Ride Training (IRT) faculty will be busy in 2021 COVID-19 World, Accessibil- person regional seminars. IRT co-owner, said IRT's Ride with its five regional in-person International Ride Operator ity and the ADA, Hiring and Plans are now complete Camps have become very Certification (iROC) Safety School Ride Camps. IRT also will Staffing Strategies, Motivating as to where they will be held, popular. Keeping the annual offer a virtual option as well next year. COURTESY IRT Ride Operators, Training Tools but dates have yet to be deter- tradition alive was extremely and Techniques, and Incident mined except for the first of important for the co-owners. in a few live sessions during the we have a huge variety of fa- Response and Investigation, the five. That event is locked "It brings industry leaders Carowinds event. cilities represented, whether among others. in for Feb. 23-25 at Carowinds, together for a deep dive into IRT will have strict COV- they are iROC clients or not, There also will be sessions Charlotte, North Carolina. the world of ride and aquatic ID-19 safety practices in place to share their experiences and giving participants the oppor- Locations for the remain- operations in a way that per- at all Ride Camp locations in learn best practices," said Erik tunity to share best practices, ing Ride Camps, which will fectly combines education, accordance with applicable Beard, also a co-owner. "To discuss industry hot topics and be two-day events instead of hands-on training, network- state and local requirements. continue that tradition, the learn directly from one another. three, are: California’s Great ing, and an amazing sense of The iROC Ride Camp virtual aspects of Ride Camp Huddy said registration America, Santa Clara, Califor- comradery," Huddy said. has never been limited to just 2021 are open and available to for Ride Camp 2021 will be nia; Nickelodeon Universe at Regional Ride Camp at- iROC facilities exclusively and all regardless of whether their open soon. More information Mall of America, Blooming- tendees will have the opportuni- this year will be only slightly facility is iROC Certified.” may be obtained by contacting ton, Minnesota; Kings Island, ty to access a host of on-demand different in that regard. For those facilities that are Huddy at Cindee@ridetrain- Mason, Ohio, and Nickel- Ride Camp course offerings on- "One of the strengths of not iROC certified and, thus, ing.com or at 615.545.8109. odeon Universe and Dream- line and to participate virtually Ride Camp historically is that do not need to renew or obtain •ridetraining.com December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39

Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers International, Ltd. P.O. Box 92366 • Nashville, Tenn. 37209 Phone: (714) 425-5747 • Fax: (714) 276-9666 Mary Jane Brewer • [email protected] www.aimsintl.org Holly Coston, (714) 697-6654, [email protected] 10 reasons to participate in the AIMS International Virtual Safety 1. Safety is the #1 priority in the parks, carnivals, zoos, FECs and more, 8. You can apply for scholarships! amusement industry and the AIMS you will learn from your peers and IAAPA provides five scholarships to International Safety Seminar is con- make connections you can use for the AIMS Safety Seminar in memory sistently rated the best and most com- years to come. From ride inspectors, of Alan Ramsay. Application forms can prehensive amusement industry safety maintenance, operations and aquatics be found at aimsintl.org/aims-inter- seminar worldwide. technicians to senior management and national-safety-seminar/iaapa-alan- industry suppliers, there are sessions ramsay-scholarship. OABA offers four 2. No other seminar offers such for everyone. scholarships to OABA members who a diverse range of classes. At the are first-time Safety Seminar attend- AIMS International Virtual Safety 6. Classes are taught by more than ees. Contact oaba.org/page-18063 for Seminar, you can choose classes that 50 instructors — all high-profile indus- more information. fit your needs. There are six tracks to try experts in their fields. Through live choose from: Maintenance, Inspection, Q&A and networking, students can ask 9. AIMS delivers! More than 92% Operations, Aquatics, Safety and, new questions, share ideas, and gain more of students who attend an AIMS Safety this year, a Spanish Language track great connections. Seminar plan to return to another AIMS with topics covering maintenance, ule. Educational sessions will be avail- Safety Seminar. operations and inspection. able “OnDemand” through the end of 7. It’s affordable! Tuition is just January. If you cannot fit all 40 hours $495 (for a limited time), with no 10. Whether in-person or virtual, 3. New this year — Ellis & into one week, you can spread them requirement to be an AIMS member there will be opportunities to sit for Associates, a leader in aquatics risk out. With both live and on-demand ses- and, because it is entirely virtual, there AIMS Certification exams shortly after management and safety training, will sions, students can take their required are no travel expenses this year. With the 2021 Seminar. be delivering the Aquatics track for the courses all in one week or spread their the average cost to attend a tradi- virtual safety seminar. learning out over three weeks. tional week-long, in-person seminar at For more information about the or above $2,000 per person, this is a AIMS International Virtual Safety 4. Learning takes place in the 5. Attracting more than 450 stu- savings of 75%. The CEU certificate is Seminar, please email info@aimsintl. comfort and convenience of your own dents from across the industry… even included in the price. org or contact MJ Brewer, Executive home or workplace — on your sched- theme and amusement parks, water Director, 714.425-5747 Space for this AIMS page is provided courtesy of Amusement Today as a corporate partner of AIMS Intl. Content is provided by AT & AIMS. 40 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 3dx Scenic offers limitless dimensions in theming, scenic design AT: John W.C. Robinson [email protected]

CINCINNATI, Ohio — In the amusement industry, theming and scenic design are essential. Park signage, ride scenes, special events, walkways and more all tend to need that special unique touch that helps visitors escape from everyday life and enjoy a day at the park. That is exactly why 3dx Scenic (3dx) of Cincinnati, Ohio, special- izes in all of the above. Originally existing as the scenic fabrication division of L!VE — a full-service produc- For Cedar Fair’s popular Grand Carnivale events, the team at 3dx Scenic produced two sets tion and AV rental company of three unique parade floats. The floats were then shipped between parks so that four Many of 3dx Scenic's unique — 3dx has since expanded its different Cedar Fair facilities could showcase the festive event. The 3dx Scenic floats were creations are generated by offerings and evolved into its not towed, but rather featured an interior vehicle that drove the sculpted designs during their massive 3D sculpting own entity. The company now each parade. COURTESY MICHELLE MOMANY PHOTOGRAPHY robot. The robot can rapidly provides custom scenic design cut accurate copies at a options for campgrounds, Orlando in 2010." 2000," explained Thieme. "He Mark Rosenzweig. "Lawless pace much faster than hand- theme parks, theatrical produc- 3dx believes in creating brought several projects along custom fabricates each chassis scuplting. tions and promotional events. relevant experiences and giv- with him for the theaters with- to meet the load demands for AT/JOHN W.C. ROBINSON "It really was an organic ing rise to remarkable expres- in the park as well as some each float’s scenic elements." shift," said Nate Thieme, 3dx's sions. As such, its team of smaller scenic items." Cedar Fair reached out to 150th Anniversary Parade, VP of scenic experiences. "In engineers, riggers, carpenters, However, that local rela- 3dx even more recently to cre- we had two team members the early 2000s, we were con- welders, seamstresses and tionship has been maintained, ate parade floats for the Cedar on site for five days to assist tinuing to build more elaborate storytellers work together to with 3dx recently creating Point's upcoming 150th birth- and oversee a local crew and large sets for live events. create unique expressions for several parade floats for the day celebration. Originally from the park for the assem- Many of the early employees the company's clientele. This popular Grand Carnivale planned for 2020 but delayed bly and handoff to the client," came from the scenic fabrica- rare collaboration between event held at multiple Cedar by the park as a result of the said Rosenzweig. tion division at Kings Island. modern technologists, skilled Fair parks, including Kings COVID-19 pandemic, 3dx's From conception to stun- "We networked with our tradespeople and creative art- Island. Unique among parade creations will now debut in ning completion, the creations friends in the [amusement] ists help to creat scenic experi- floats, 3dx creations are driv- 2021. The massive floats were from 3dx are realized via a industry to begin fabricating ences that reflect and express en by a hidden vehicle rather created at 3dx's Cincinnati mutlitude of in-house meth- items outside of live events. unique and vivid imagery. than towed from in front of workshop, then dismantled ods. Sculptors and carpenters In 2006 a more concentrat- The company's first foray the float. and shipped to the park in create with their hands and ed marketing effort outside into the amusement industry "Our parade float chas- Sandusky, Ohio. old school tools. Large format of live corporate events was happened locally. "We had sis are manufactured by "For the six parade printers tackle signage and undertaken and we attend- hired a shop manager who Lawless Industries," offered floats we recently deliv- other two-dimensional needs. ed our first IAAPA Expo in came from Kings Island early 3dx Senior Account Executive ered to Cedar Point for their One of 3dx's most powerful tools is its 3D printing/scult- ping robot arm, a seven-axis CNC router. The robot uses digital design files to create whatever 3dx artists or their clients' imaginations can dream. Plus, it aids in quickly reproducing identical scenic elements when needed. "Once a 3D digital file is created, the robot does not deviate from that file and can cut exact copies repeat- edly, much faster and more accurate than hand sculpting," explained Rosenzweig. 3dx works to ensure that its designs are not just visually stunning, but also long-lasting and structurally sound. "Our floats are designed and crafted to be as weather resistant as possible, however they are not sealed up and protected like a vehicle," said Rosenzweig. "They are stored indoors when not being used in a performance and typi- 4See 3DX, page 42 December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 41 :

42 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020

SAFETY MARKET PLACE

EASY-TO-USE SOFTWARE FOR: SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS Mark Rosenzweig (seen holding a Predator creation from 3dx) brought over 20 MOBARO.COM years of amusement industry experience to 3dx Scenic when he joined the company in summer 2020. AT/JOHN W.C. ROBINSON 3DX Continued from page 40

cally do not run in inclement weather. However, if a project is needed to be continuously outdoor year-round, additional efforts are taken to account for that." "For SeaWorld Parks and Attractions, 3dx has produced 30 parade floats that are featured in the Sesame Street Parades at SeaWorld San Antonio, SeaWorld Orlando and SeaWorld San Diego," detailed Thieme. "The San Diego floats will be getting INGENUITY refurbished over the winter THAT MOVES and moved down the road to YOU! the new Sesame Place park in Chula Vista, California, set to open in 2022." Innovation and imagination combine with talent, skills and technology at 3dx Scenic. The result allows for no boundaries in the future of amusement industry theming. WWW.VEKOMA.COM •gowithlive.com/3dx-scenic

Only imagination limits the capabilities of 3dx Scenic's 3D printing robot. An early test of the system's possibilities Keep our amusement park industry strong! yielded this unique "Darth Buy products and services from these suppliers. Buddha" figure. AT/JOHN W.C. ROBINSON December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 43

SCHOOL IS BACK ON and SAFETY is being taught at the NWSC Safety Seminar

Due to Covid 19 and the restrictions, we are working hard to put on a 2 day seminar. At this time we are only allow to accommodate 50 students and we will take student registrations until we hit that number. If the restrictions are loosened we will allow more in at that time. Until then get your registration in ASAP if you want to attend.

We know that everyone in the industry has been financially hit hard that is Why we are only charging $50 for the 2 days of classes.

SPECIAL PANDEMIC SEMINAR When: February 22nd & 23rd 2021 Where: Funtastic Shows Campus - 3407 SE 108th Ave, Portland, Oregon 97266 Times: 7:30 am to 5:30 pm Fee: $50 Meals: Lunch will be served daily and is included in registration fee

Go to our web site to register and for more information

www.nwshowmensclub.com 503-519-4867 44 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 IRM video meetings create business ideas, hope for family operations WILDWOOD, N.J. — With COVID-19 caus- ing many parks, FECs and ride manufacturers to make changes in order to move forward. International Ride Management (IRM) went into listening mode with many of its clients. Throughout April, May and June, IRM hosted AT/JEFFREY SEIFERT and moderated a series of regional video meetings with over two dozen of its clients. Covering topics including mass cost cutting, Standard establishes practices for line-staff engagement during a shutdown, creative hiring without J-1 foreign labor or local job fairs, amusement railway locomotives new revenue opportunities as well as cash flow management for the next 12 months. IRM also W. CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. — ASTM International’s amuse- created a private Facebook page for family-owned ment rides and devices committee (F24) is developing a standard amusement parks to exchange ideas and assist each other throughout the year. to establish new inspection and maintenance requirements for IRM’s newest partner — Fibrart of Mexico — remained busy working on proposals for IRM steam propelled locomotives found at amusement parks. clients. “Alejandro and his design team, have proven that even the smallest project such as water According to Ron Lwin, a committee task group chair, the slide replacements to new play structures and incredible splash pads, can be both high quality original manufacturers of historic steam locomotives are often and economical to facilities of any size,” stated Sam Shurgott, owner of IRM. “They can turn no longer in existence and unable to give recommendations for projects around in under 48 hours and that has been a tremendous help to us in our offerings.” IRM is planning to announce a new North American partner soon to its family of premium maintenance, offering little guidance to steam operators. The built equipment to complement their stable of vintage rides and games for sale along with a proposed standard will provide minimum maintenance re- updated consulting, master planning and behind the scenes assistance such as operation manu- quirements based on widely accepted historical practices and als and online services custom tailored for each park and attraction. currently used railroad industry benchmarks. The company reduced all consulting, appraisal and sales commission fees to reduce spend- “The steam locomotives typically found in amusement ing for its clients. “We can’t exist without our clients,“ Shurgott explained. “We will never go parks, museums, and at tourist railroads may not currently have deep into anyone’s pockets. We will do what we need to do on all three sides of a deal to make an appropriate maintenance standard to reference,” says Lwin, a project or sale work, and it is paying off for all parties.“ In an outside-the-box approach by IRM to show commitment to recovery was to purchase senior quality engineer for Walt Disney World. “This standard several games including midway-style and coin-op units. IRM then gave them to parks to operate will serve as the primary reference for maintenance require- in a revenue-sharing agreement. ments of steam locomotives.” “Boosting revenue is key to stabilizing the double-digit losses with the resources and time The new proposed standard (WK67138) will provide minimum available. Every new revenue dollar is valuable this season and future seasons moving forward,” requirements for suitable locomotive operation that fall outside the added Shurgott. “We are creating long-term partnerships with simple decisions and with guid- U.S. Federal Railroad Administration jurisdiction or other local au- ance from long-term industry veterans.” thority having jurisdiction with existing steam train rules, while the •irmrides.com expanded appendix will include more specific best practices. December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 45 LOOK YOUNGER Never underestimate the INSTANTLY! power of a good Give your park a facelift makeover! without breaking the bank.

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*Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.whitewaterservice.com to learn more. 46 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020 December 2020 AMUSEMENT TODAY 47 REVIEW One year, ten carnivals and 21,000 miles; CLASSIFIEDS author tells the story of being on the road AUCTION AT: B. Derek Shaw discovery in a fantasy land. [email protected] Traveling carnivals trade in fantasies and I was looking for BARRINGTON, Ill. — adventure, original characters This year COVID-19 greatly and self-discovery along the changed everyone’s lives. Back way too. This is [also] a book of in February 2013, being on the immersion journalism. I wor- road for an entire year changed ried that it would be a long Michael Sean Comerford’s life series of blogs with no story as well, however in a differ- arc. My book cover makes it ent way. Originally intended to look like a novel, not a true be a behind-the-scenes look at story. The way I tell the story, one carnival and the industry, there are surprises, reversals of American OZ, soon morphed fortune and near death experi- into 10 employers. Only the ences just like a novel.” first operator knew about his Comerford has the high- writing project. The rest had no est respect for the workers. idea. The carnivals included: “Carnival people are the hard- Butler Amusements, Classic est working people in the Amusements, McDaniel world. Yet they get no credit Brothers Shows, Modern for holding in their hands Midways, Golden Wheel what people need the most Amusements, Amusements of but don’t know it; carnival America, along with three inde- from some, “Everyone was sus- people know how to create FOR SALE pendent fairs, Minnesota State picious of me because I used communal joy. We need carni- Fair, Oklahoma State Fair and every spare moment to “play” vals and carnival people more State Fair of Texas. Early on on my laptop. In some towns, I than ever. American OZ shows in this mesmerizing, 311-page came back to the motel at 3 am that we are connected more account, Comerford exclaimed, from the all-night diner with than we know and our mutual FOR “What have I done?” wifi, and people never asked happiness revolves in circles SALE Most of the time me about it. A couple people like so many carnival rides.” Loco, Tender, Comerford set up, tore down wondered if I was a cop, spy- Comerford knows all of 3 x Coaches and ran rides, along with run- ing on their drug abuse.” us have the same life issues. “I $200,000 ning a few games, or as he says, Comerfords’ travel want people who go to carni- “From ride jockey to jointee.” between carnival operations vals to know that carnies and OR NEAREST OFFER Near the end of his year he was accomplished by bus, train show people aren’t existing briefly worked for the Super and mostly hitchhiking. Those in different worlds. They’re Trade Show & Extravaganza “thumbing” events provided working on the same issues but in Gibtown and Ward Hall colorful experiences along with they work on their lives while and the World of Wonders an equally colorful cast of fel- on the road. Carnival people side show. Comerford stopped low travelers including Electric seek love and meaning in their using his name as nicknames Leprechaun, Apocalypse Julie lives and the answer always quickly evolve in the carnival and Rainbow Eric. seems to be somewhere down Severn Lamb, Pennsylvania, USA [email protected] world. “When I deep-sixed The Chicago-land native the road. We all are searching +1-717-342-2784 my real name, I felt like a explained why he wanted for our place in this universe, www.severn-lamb.com fiction in a traveling fiction to embark on this journey. for meaning and love.” 43168_SLT_AmusementToday_ClassifiedAdvert V2.indd 1 07/10/2019 17:20 land. My background didn't “When I was 22 years old, I Summing things up FOR SALE hold me back because identi- rode my bicycle from Chicago Comerford wrote in American ties shift in carnivals." He was to Seattle. On the way, I OZ: “The lessons I learned known as Crocodile, Cowboy, stopped in Wyoming for the on the road apply to life out- • Visa Floor Pickup Mini-Scooter (6 cars)..$49,000 El Grande, High Street, Mike Cody Stampede Rodeo and side carnivals. Play is worthy • 25-meter Moser Tower (never used)...$349,000 Love, Slim and The Priest dur- worked a dart game. In Cody, of stingy time. Imaginations (T/M). ing his odyssey. "I wasn’t a I loved calling in the custom- must be fattened. A great car- • Chance Zipper ...$199,000 real carny but it would be an ers, and I thought the carnival nival can change our DNA. • ARM Happy Viking Himalaya....$79,000 honor to be called one." people were interesting, with Since I left carnival life, pop • Chance Double Decker...... $299,000 Quite a few of the work- complicated secrets moving songs remind me of midways. ers on the shows had interest- town to town. I thought, if Commercials become ballys. • Moser 8.6m Spring Ride...... $69,000 ing names as well, including ever I do write books, I want I walk by lakes looking for • Bertazzon Matterhorn (T/M)....$299,000 Monster, Rose Dog, Eagle, to include some of these peo- monster goldfish. At sunset, • Zierer Wave Swinger (T/M).....$249,000 Picky-Picky, Lone Wolf, Metal ple.” 32 years later, Comerford I watch for the sun poking (T/M) Head, Jimmy Tattoos, Chunk put his idea into motion. through the rib iron of a car- • ARM Rock Star ...... $399,000 of Cheese, Peanut, Boogie, There were numerous rea- ousel. I can hear their voices. • KMG Freak Out (T/M).....$399,000 Sis, Breeze, Batman, Miss sons for the name American No funny, no money. No flash, • Wacky Worm...... $99,000 Trudy, Irish Patrick, Chango, OZ. “L. Frank Baum was a no cash. Happy children are Tub Thug, Q, and Dance. All Chicago newspaper man when the hope of the future.” • Super Shot.....$349,000 had stories to go with their he wrote the first Wizard of American OZ, a self-pub- Call Len or Earl name of choice. OZ book.” It was turned into a lished book, was released ear- (908) 526-8009 • FAX: (908) 526-4535 Blogging his days’ adven- movie in 1939. “The movie was lier this year. www.Rides4U.com ture at night raised an eyebrow a hero’s story, a journey of self- •michaelseancomerford.com 48 AMUSEMENT TODAY December 2020