Gibtown Geared up for 50Th Trade Show and Extravaganza

INSIDE:

February 2018 | Vol. 21 • Issue 11 www.amusementtoday.com Gibtown geared up for 50th Trade Show and Extravaganza Organizers prepare food, games, plush, electrical and lighting, vinyl signage and, food for a busy event and housing trailers. AT: Pam Sherborne Event organizer Teresa [email protected] Rimes said at the first of Janu- Showmen's Association's. IISF ary that registration was run- GIBSONTON, Fla. — Orga- is the fund-raising arm of that ning smoothly. She expected nizers of the 2018 International association. attendance to be on par with Independent Showmen's Foun- This is the 50th anniversary 2017, which showed a healthy dation Trade Show and Extrav- of the trade show, which pulls to- increase over previous years. aganza were putting the finish- gether professionals such as own- The trade show has been ing touches on plans last month ers, operators, supervisors and shortened one day, running as activities were to begin just a managers of carnivals, amuse- four days this year compared to The 50th annual International Independent Showmen’s few weeks off. ment rental companies, amuse- five days prior. But Rimes said Foundation Trade Show and Extravaganza (IISF) is set to run Running this year from ment and theme parks, family they were going to see how it Feb. 6-9 this year on the club grounds of the International In- Feb. 6-9, the annual event is centers with their colleagues — turned out. dependent Showmen’s Association (IISA) in Gibsonton, Fla. held on the club grounds of including manufacturers and 4See IISF, page 4 AT/GARY SLADE the International Independent suppliers of amusement rides, Epic Waters debuts as partnership with City of Grand Prairie AT: Tim Baldwin Waters, an indoor water park, [email protected] opened mid-January. The Epic is a multi-faceted recreation GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas center unlike the U.S. has ever — Plunging your body from seen. It is expected to open an eight-story, drop capsule, May 1 following Epic Waters. looping waterslide to official- PlayGrand Adventures is an ly cut the ribbon on a new all-inclusive playground that water park is an interesting will follow later in 2018. move. Mayor Ron Jensen did “Epic Waters is a grand just that. “It was shockingly scope,” said Jensen. “We’re fun,” he said. in the middle of seven mil- It would be easy to say lion people in the heart of the the City of Grand Prairie is Dallas/Ft. Worth metroplex. making a name for itself. The We needed to be a player. Our Texas city situated between citizens deserved something Dallas and Ft. Worth has like this. They overwhelming- made some strides in gaining ly approved it. This is a legacy national attention. On a large project. I wanted to improve parcel of land of more than people’s emotional feelings 100 acres on Hwy. 161, the area Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark officially opened on Jan. 12.AT/TIM BALDWIN about living and working in that has come to be known as Grand Prairie.” Grand Central has been under 50 and older, which earned eral projects will anchor the but one still aimed at the local The mayor mentioned development for some time. numerous accolades when area as Grand Central tran- The Epic community. and that other cities have inquired It started with The Summit, it opened in 2010. Keeping sitions into EpicCentral and Epic Waters are huge facili- a fitness facility for residents the momentum going, sev- grows into a tourist resort, ties owned by the city. Epic 4See EPIC, page 6

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EDITORIAL: Gary Slade, [email protected] FLINT’S VIEW: Bubba Flint Hall of Fame thoughts The recent passing of Jerry Pendleton of O.D. Hopkins and Skytrans Mfg. reminds us of the accomplishments that not only Jerry had during his long amusement industry career, but of many others Slade just like him who have yet to be acknowledged with membership into the IAAPA Hall of Fame. IAAPA should not forget the legends that helped shape, build and, in some cases like Jerry Pendleton's contributions, saved some traditional parks from going the way that so many others have — closed forever. When O.D. Hopkins, Jerry Pendleton, Paul and Aletha Roads agreed to install the first Hopkins log flume ride in 1980, it opened the door for many family-owned parks — in the 200,000-a-year INDUSTRY OPINION: Dean Lamanna, [email protected] attendance range — to add a signature water ride The Pall of Hesitance that would prop up in-park revenues. The Hall of Presidents quickly became a by noting that it was working with the White popular and treasured attraction when it de- House to schedule the needed voice record- Looking over the IAAPA HOF list, it's buted with the 1971 opening of the Magic ing. But the social media murmurs didn’t stop. disappointing to see that legendary suppliers like Kingdom and the Walt Disney World Resort. One can only imagine the hand-wringing William L. Cobb, Bill Crandall (New Wave Rides), Although inspired by politics, the multimedia and creative considerations behind the com- stage show has remained safely apolitical — pany’s decision-making. But the perceived Bob Minick Associates, Bud Hurlbut (Hurlbut mixing history and education with a dollop of hesitance in Disney’s communications, coupled Amusement Co.) and Carl Miler (Miler Coaster) have wonderment, thanks to the lifelike wizardry of Lamanna with what felt like a protracted delay, came off audio-animatronics. as a rare misstep — even if some circumstances not yet been awarded HOF status. There is also That changed after Disney announced it was clos- were beyond its control. It made the park’s eleventh- an endless list of traditional park legends worthy ing the attraction last January in order to add President hour unveiling of its President Trump appear fraught. of inclusion: Paul Roads (Wonderland Park), Cliff Donald J. Trump and make a few upgrades. The audio-animatronic Chief Executive brought a The company said the reopening would take place fresh wave of criticism, with descriptions likening it to the Hammond (Uncle Cliff's) and Bob Morrell (Story in late 2017 — generally expected to mean by the one- actor Jon Voight and worse. Yet to Disney’s credit, the Land) are but a few that should be included, and year anniversary of the November 2016 election. The speech delivered by this Trumpian representation is just they all happen to have a Hopkins flume still thrilling date came and went. And as weeks continued to pass, rousingly patriotic enough, as well as accurate in gesture. hardcore Disney fans, who were already impatient, be- Disney’s Trump may not be perfect, but it’s a very reason- their guests today! came negatively speculative online. able facsimile. The attraction’s reputation is secure. Just as the NFL HOF has their Seniors Meanwhile, polarizing news stories involving the Predictably, video has emerged of audience mem- Commander-in-Chief were erupting regularly — lead- bers disrupting the show with catcalls. Fellow patrons, Committee that is responsible for adding two ing bloggers to surmise that Disney was uncertain including parents attending with kids, shouldn’t have to names each year for consideration into the hall, about how to integrate this colorful, controversial real- be subjected to that. perhaps its is time for IAAPA to select a Seniors life character into its solemn theme park institution. Newfound wisdom from the updated Hall of To some, it even seemed the company was taking a Presidents: America’s divisions will not heal if we fail Committee to submit names of our industry legends wait-and-see approach to the investigations in Washing- to demonstrate respect for each other on the basic so they can be properly honored. ton, D.C. Disney tried to quell the suspense and rumor personal level.

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Amusement Today is an independent, privately- Founder, Publisher and Editor Special Projects & Editorial Monthly Contributors owned trade newspaper published 14 times Gary Slade • (817) 460-7220 x3 Jeffrey Seifert • (817) 460-7220 x2 Dan Feicht, Bubba Flint, Andrew Mellor, per year by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. Box [email protected] [email protected] Richard Munch, Janice Witherow 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. Print issues are $50 per year and are mailed Presort Standard Postage (permit No. 2069) Pre-Paid Fort Worth, Accounting & Classified Social Media & Editorial Print Issue & Extra Extra Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper, Sammy Piccola • (817) 460-7220 x1 Dean Lamanna Desktop Edition Production and its related websites, are Copyrighted and [email protected] [email protected] Website Maintenance Trademarked 2018 by Amusement Today Inc., John Robinson • (513) 256-1441 all rights reserved. Assistant Office Manager Editorial [email protected] Savannah Breen • (817) 460-7220 Tim Baldwin Address: P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas [email protected] [email protected] Association Memberships 76005-5427, USA AIMS International, ASTM, IAAPA, IISF, IRT/ Deliveries: 2012 E. Randol Mill Road #203, Advertising B. Derek Shaw • (717) 650-8330 iROC, NAARSO, NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, Arlington, Texas 76011, USA [email protected] PAPA, PACE, TTIA, WWA Phone: (817) 460-7220 Sue Nichols • (615) 477-5432 [email protected] Fax: (817) 265-NEWS (6397) Pam Sherborne • (615) 308-3310 Industry Affiliated Charities Websites: www.AmusementToday.com, [email protected] Give Kids the World Village, Morgan's Wonderland, www.GoldenTicketAwards.com National Roller Coaster Museum & Archives February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3

CHARACTER CORNER MINUTE I.B. Crow, Indiana Beach I.B. Crow first debuted DRILL in the 1986 marketing 2 AT: Janice Witherow campaign for Indiana David (Doc) Rivera, IISF Beach in Monticello, Ind. Conceived by William H. At the young age of 13, David (Doc) Rivera knew Robinson, the animated he was destined to have a life in the outdoor character famously show business after selling tickets at a county fair narrated the facility's in Indiana, where he was living at the time. He commercials and delivered has spent his venerable career traveling around the then-new slogan: the country working for various carnivals, circuses "...There's more than corn and fairs, and today he is considered by many to be one of the most knowledgeable historians on in Indiana." Over the next the traveling show industry. Now retired, Doc is 20 years, I.B. would often a well-known show painter and carnival artist, as be on hand — in person, well as an author; his book, The Last Showtrain, on TV and radio, as well will soon be published. He loves spending time as in print — to help with his family and telling stories of the bygone announce new attractions era of traveling shows. at the facility. I.B. Crow and his trademark"caw caw" Number of years in the industry: Fifty-six years became internationally so far. I never thought I’d live 56 years, let alone known, giving Indiana survive in this crazy business for 56 years. I feel Beach a strengthened lucky to have not only seen but lived the changes presence in the industry of more than five decades of this lifestyle. and within state tourism. CARTOON BUBBA FLINT; Best thing about the industry: Naturally, for HISTORY me it’s the colorful and unique history. The more Rivera is a traveling shows in America his- JOHN W.C. ROBINSON I am involved with the history of this business torian and executive director of the. and hear the old stories, I come to realize how COURTESY DAVID RIVERA eclectic show people are and how imaginative the ones who came before us were. When I say snow, you say: No snow for me!

Favorite amusement ride: The Octopus. Ten years ago, I was: Fatter...I’ve lost 20 pounds to try to be healthier. If I wasn’t working in the amusement industry, I would be… I always wanted to go to sea The magazine cover I would most like to ap- as a merchant sailor. I was all set up with the pear on would be: Time magazine, but for a proper paperwork and requirements to go to the positive reason, not as a negative person. Maritime Merchant Marine Academy when I got drafted and sent to Vietnam. My least favorite word is: AXE...when it’s mis- used by people who mean to say “ask.” Biggest challenge facing our industry: There is no one thing that threatens our industry, I am afraid of: Alzheimer's...to me nothing could there are many. I’ve always maintained that the be worse than to forget who you are and what business won’t disappear in a flash, but die the you were. Chinese death of a thousand cuts. I suppose the severity of the individual problems really depend The all-time best ad slogan is: Dos Equis ad. “I on who you talk to and what their particular don’t always (insert here) but when I do, it’s …” focus is on. On my last birthday: I started taking candles My first car: A '49 Ford coupe ... with rust holes OFF my cake. in the floorboards that you could pitch a cat through! I learned the hard way that this car Favorite midnight snack: Egg custard pie. wasn’t for driving in 40-below northern Indiana winters. I paid a whopping $50 for it and the old What do you hope might be the next big V-8 flathead engine ran like a top until the day I invention? Artificial cartilage … so I don’t have sold it, a year later...for $75! to undergo knee replacements later.

A recent life-changing moment for me: There Choose – pie, cake or ice cream: I refuse...it’s have been a lot of "come to Jesus" moments just not right...it’s like asking me whether I want over the years...too many to mention here and to inhale or exhale. probably many shouldn’t be discussed in “mixed company,” as my granny used to say. Favorite holiday tradition: Christmas dinner at the Chinese buffet. If I was a secret agent, my code name would be … I was an electrician on the West Coast The hobby I would like to spend more time Shows for a few years and the crew started doing is: Writing and painting. And the museum jokingly calling me “Doc Shock: Keeper of the project can be a consuming mistress at times. Kilowatt.” Favorite Dr. Seuss book: Horton Hears a Who. The concert I would love a backstage pass to would be: Andrea Bocelli...and I have tickets for I feel lucky when … I make it out of bed and a February concert that my granddaughter gave everything still works reasonably well. me for Christmas….not backstage, but they’ll do! 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018

"We have just finished up ed in the industry with Myers IISF 2018 IISF Trade Show and Extravaganza Continued from page 1 our Bike Fest," Burnett said. "It International Midways manag- went well except the cold tem- ing the show's games and own- session and event schedule "It can always go back to peratures got us." ing some of the games as well. five days," she said. The 2018 Gibtown Bike Fest After the Myers show went Tuesday, Feb. 6 IISA has had a booth at the ran Jan. 12-14. The annual event off the road, Burnett traveled a 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.: TRADE SHOW OPEN International Association of features live entertainment, stunt couple of years afterwards. He is 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.: ServSafe Certification Class Amusement Parks and Attrac- shows, food and beverage ven- currently off the road running a (Become certified in the ServSafe Program during tions Expo for the last two years. dors, and merchandise vendors. barbecue trailer on the IISA club the IISF Trade Show.) Location: Upstairs boardroom Rimes said that has been suc- Next up on Burnett's agen- grounds. 1- 2 p.m.: Seminar: Documentation: Prove It cessful in gaining more mem- da was to help get the grounds Even though the official (A review and examples of the type of documentation a bers as well as exhibitors for the ready for the Trade Show and Trade Show and Extravaganza business in the amusement industry should have on trade show. Extravaganza. begins on Feb. 6, activities begin hand.) Location: Carousel Pavillion Wesley Burnett, 2017-2018 "The year has gone by pret- before that. There is a Super Bowl 3-4 p.m.: Seminar: OSHA — Your Government Is Here To IISA president, was on the club ty quickly," Burnett said. "There Party and Trade Show Kick-off Help (This seminar will show you what OSHA requirements grounds when reached by AT in are a lot of great people to help Party set for Feb. 4. Big Hearted are applicable to the amusement industry and show you mid-January. make all this happen. There is a Jerry's Memorial Golf Tourna- how to easily comply.) Location: Carousel Pavillion lot to do, more than one man can ment is set for the next day, Feb. 5. Additional activities manage that is for sure. It has Other events include the Wednesday, Feb. 7 for week of IISF been an honor to be president Museum Corp. Dinner and Jam- this past year." boree Fundraiser on Feb. 7 and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.: TRADE SHOW OPEN Trade Show and He said the Trade Show Wesley's Banquet and Ball on the 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.: ServSafe Certification Class Extravaganza Committee has reported that this evening of Feb. 8. Location: Upstairs boardroom year's extravaganza is expected During the 2018 trade 1-4 p.m.: Seminar, H-2B Train Wreck - Strategies for GIBSONTON, Fla. — Industry Survival (This is a must attend session for all in Along with the 2018 In- to be even better than last year's. show, there will be a number "I have been told that we of awards given. Categories for the mobile entertainment industry who are part of the ternational Independent have several new overseas ven- those awards are: Most Beauti- H-2B program.) Location: Carousel Pavillion Showmen's Foundation dors," he said. ful Indoor Display; Most Unique 4-5 p.m.: H-2B Update & PAC Reception (IISF) Trade Show and Ex- Burnett said it was the Trade Indoor Display; Outstanding In- Location: Carousel Pavillion travaganza, set for Feb. Show Committee's decision to door Display; Most Impressive 6-9, other events involv- shorten the number of days of Indoor Display; Most Impressive Thursday, Feb. 8 ing those in the outdoor the trade show. Outdoor Display; Best of Show; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.: TRADE SHOW OPEN amusement business in- "It wasn't a decision that Most Beautiful Outdoor Display; 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.: ServSafe Certification Class dustry are set to take place was taken lightly," he said. Most Unique Outdoor Display; 11 a.m.-5 p.m.: Free Friend Admission Day (Current that week. "There was a lot of discussion. Outstanding Outdoor Display; members of the IISA may bring a guest to be admitted The 2018 Fair Part- I think the committee was try- Most Improved; Rookie of the for free.) Location: IISF Show Grounds ner's Shootout Sporting ing to keep the vendors happy. Year.; Largest Outdoor Display, 6-10 p.m.: Banquet and Ball (Wesley Burnett's Banquet Clay Competition is set for I have no idea if that will change and Outstanding Service. and Ball, themed "Redneck Yacht Club.") Thursday, Feb. 8, at Fish- again. I think it really depends The IISA installation of of- Location: Carousel Pavilion hawk Sporting Clay in Lith- on how this year's show goes. " ficers will be held after the com- ia. This is the third annual Trade show hours this year pletion of the trade show on Friday, Feb. 9 competition. are 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Feb. 6-9. Feb. 12. Rinda Popovich will 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.: TRADE SHOW OPEN The competition is Burnett is a life-long resi- be installed as the 2018-2019 11 a.m.-2 p.m.: World Wide President's Fry sponsored by the Florida dent of Gibsonton, Fla. He start- president. Location: IISA Museum Federation of Fairs, Out- 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.: ServSafe Certification Class door Amusement Busi- Location: Upstairs boardroom ness Association (OABA) 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.: Industrial Truck / Forklift Training and the National Inde- Location: IISF Show Grounds pendent Concessionaires Association (NICA). The Florida State Fair, Firestone Financial adds new Tampa, opens during the annual IISF event. Dates team member and programs of the fair are Feb. 8-19. Wade Shows provides the NEEDHAM, Ma. — Firestone Financial recently an- midway. nounced that Rich Gockelman will be joining the team as a OABA will hold its An- commercial account executive for the carnival and amusement nual Meeting and Chair- park industries. Rich has several years of relationship lending man's Reception on Friday, the experience and will be joining the industry veterans Pete Feb. 9. During that recep- A bevy of activities are set to be held during the 2018 IISF Aldrich, Donna Joyce and John Vangel at the 50th IISF Gib- tion, 2017-2018 OABA Trade Show and Extravaganza. The association presents a town Trade Show and Extravaganza and the NICA Business Chair E. J. Dean, Dean variety of educational and informational sessions. The Out- Expo & Food Fare in February. and Flynn Fiesta Shows, door Amusement Business Association and the Showmen’s Carnival and park customers can take advantage of Fires- will hand over the gavel League of America are also holding events. AT/GARY SLADE tone’s industry-exclusive program, which allows customers to to Jay Strates, Strates pay for only half the season on new loans. Any customer that Shows, incoming OABA funds a new loan by Memorial Day 2018 can chose to either chair. cut their seasonal payments in half or hold off on making their Larry Yaffe, Fires- first payment until midway through the 2018 season. tone Financial Corp., will In addition to this program, Firestone Financial also offers move into the first vice guidance lines of credit to qualified customers. A Firestone chair position and Deb- credit line may be used for new and used rides, light packag- bie Powers, Powers es, bunkhouses, winter quarters, insurance and maintenance. Great American Mid- Borrowers must apply for the credit line. Establishment of the ways, will become sec- line does not carry cost or obligation to the customer; stan- ond vice chair. Third vice dard loan terms and conditions will apply only when the line chair will be announced. is used. —Pam Sherborne For more inforamtion, contact websales@firestonefinan- cial.com or call (800) 851-1001, ext 42. February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5 IISF 48th annual Gibtown Extravaganza February 6-9, 2018 Exhibitor Listing 21st Century Shooting Galleries Llc ...... Outside Space Eddie Cole's Jumpshot ...... # 908-909 On Site Signs Ohio ...... # 805-807 50% Off Plush ...... # 1011-1012 Eli Bridge Co ...... # 415-416 Over The Road Permitting Software . . . . . Non-Exhibiting 5centride Com ...... # 602 Equipment Solutions International . . . . . Outside Space SupplierOwen Trailers Inc ...... Outside Space A & M Wholesale Group ...... # 912-913 Fare Foods Corporation ...... # 516 Peek-A-Boo Toys ...... # 326 - 331 A .R .I . (Amusement Ride Imports) ...... Outside Space Fiesta ...... # 914-916 Play 8 Ltd Dba Hec Worldwide ...... Outside Space A .R .M . (Us) ...... Outside Space Firestone Financial ...... # 1128-1130 Powersource Transportation, Inc ...... # 818 Action Lighting Inc ...... # 510 - 511 Flitz International Ltd ...... # 928 Pws Rides Ltd ...... Outside Space Action Rides ...... Outside Space Food Concession Signs ...... # 918-921 R . Humes Enterprises ...... # 311 Action World ...... Outside Space Forever Bunkhouses ...... Outside Space Radioboss 2-Way Radios ...... # 1009 Allied Specialty Ins . ~ An Xl Group Co ...... # 403 / 503 Frederiksen Industries, Inc ...... Outside Space Rapsure Concession Trailers ...... Outside Space American Changer Corporation ...... Slab 'C' Fred's Tents & Canopies ...... # 727-728 Recreation By Design ...... Outside Space American Earth Anchors ...... # 428 Fun & Fun Toys, Inc ...... # 621-624 Red Bone Products, Inc ...... # 1101 American Specialty Ins . & Risk Services ...... # 922 Funlight Amusements Sro ...... Outside Space Red Bone Products, Inc ...... Outside Space American Standard Trailer ...... Outside Space Galaxy Amusement Sales ...... Outside Space Rhode Island Novelty . . . . . # 404-409 / 504-509 / 603-609 Amusement Today ...... # 702 Gautier Fabrication Inc ...... Outside Space Ride Parts Inc ...... # 714 - 716 Amusement Wraps ...... # 820-821 Gloworks Imports, Inc ...... # 1003-1005 Rides-4-U, Inc ...... Outside Space Atm Merchant Services ...... # 1013-1014 Goffa International Corp ...... # 719 - 721 Rocken Graphics ...... Outside Space Audio Innovators, Inc ...... # 725 - 726 Gold Medal Products Co ...... # 422-424 / 522-524 Rocken Graphics ...... # 1112 - 1116 Automated Access Systems Div . Of Becman ...... # 819 Gosetto S .R .L ...... # 701 Safe Strap Company, Inc ...... # 907 B J Toy Company, Inc ...... # 418-421 / 518-519 Greenwald Industries ...... # 1021 Schantz Manufacturing Inc ...... Outside Space B . Barton & Sons - Ice Men ...... # 301 Gull Wing Industries, Inc ...... Outside Space Show Me Fabrication, Inc ...... Outside Space Backyard Canvas And Signs, Inc ...... # 1015-1016 Haas & Wilkerson Insurance ...... # 618 - 620 Showmen Supplies Inc ...... Outside Space Bay Tek Games...... # 926-927 Hampton Company ...... Outside Space Sippers By Design ...... Non-Exhibiting Supplier Belshaw Adamatic Bakery Group ...... # 1010 Hayes Specialties Corp ...... # 308-310 Soda Parts Express Inc ...... # 627 Berk Concession Supply ...... # 410 - 412 Hi Striker Co ...... # 827 Space Craft Mfg ., Inc ...... Outside Space Best Toy Mfg . Ltd ...... # 1018 - 1020 Hitch-Hiker Manufacturing, Inc . . . . . Non-Exhibiting Supplier Specialty Insurance Ltd ...... # 313 Big T Sports & Toys ...... # 809 - 816 Igpm Distribution Llc ...... # 426-427 Spotlight Graphics ...... Non-Exhibiting Supplier Bob's Space Racers, Inc ...... Outside Space Indiana Ticket Company ...... # 722-723 Sterling Jewelers ...... # 1001 - 1002 Bojuxcom S .R .O ...... Outside Space Isera Powered By Evolution Ins Brokers . . . . Non-Exhibiting Supplier Tent And Table .Com ...... Outside Space Bungeesupply .Com Llc ...... # 520-521 Ital International, Llc ...... # 305 - 306 Tig Artistics, Llc ...... Outside Space Burton & Company, P .A ...... Non-Exhibiting Supplier Jimmy's Signs ...... Slab B Tmfs Corporation ...... Non-Exhibiting Supplier Business Russia / Dba Robolabs ...... # 528 Jimmy's Signs ...... Outside Space Tourist Attractions & Park Magazine . . . . . Breezeway Space Caravan Softoys ...... # 314-316 / 318-325 Jkj Workforce Agency ...... # 830/930 Toy Factory, Llc ...... # 1022-1030 Carnival Magazine ...... Breezeway Space K & K Insurance Group, Inc ...... # 724 Trailex Aluminum Trailers ...... Outside Space Carnivalwarehouse .Com ...... Breezeway Space Kmg International ...... Outside Space Triangle Poster & Printing Co ...... # 630 / 730 Carolina Atm Services Llc ...... # 905 - 906 Knight Equipment Company ...... Slab D Urethane Associates Inc ...... # 1007 Cavallaro Concessions ...... Outside Space Kolmax - Plus, S .R O...... Outside Space Used Rides Europe Bv ...... Outside Space Cca/Custom Change Aprons ...... # 525-527 Lamberink Reuzenrad Bouw Bv ...... Outside Space Used Rides .Com ...... # 1102 - 1104 Ccp Services Llc ...... # 808 Lazy Days R V Center, Inc ...... Outside Space Victor Products Inc . . . . Non-Exhibiting SupplierVirginia Toy & Chester Built Trailers Ltd ...... Outside Space Ljm & Associates Inc ...... Outside Space Novelty ...... # 825 - 826 Chestnut Identity Apparel Inc ...... # 610 - 616 Ljm & Associates Inc ...... # 304 Virtual Ticket Solutions ...... # 1006 Chestnut Identity Apparel Inc ...... # 512 Lkq / Keystone Automotive ...... # 823 Wadkins Expo Wheel ...... Outside Space Circus And Traveling Shows Retirement ...... # 1105 Lularoe ...... # 514 Wapello Fabrications Co ...... # 628 Classic Embroidery ...... # 718 Luna-Park Sp . Z O O...... Outside Space Waterloo Tent & Tarp Co ., Inc ...... # 803 - 804 / 903 - 904 Classic Toy Co ., Inc ...... # 703-713 Matt's Web Design ...... Breezeway Space Waymatic, Inc ...... Outside Space Cmd Enterprises Llc ...... # 625 - 626 Mcgowan Insurance ...... # 425 Wca International Ltd / Rideszone ...... # 822 Coin, Currency & Document Systems Inc ...... # 923 Mickey Shanks, Inc ...... # 828 Whirleydrinkworks! ...... # 515 Computerized Accounting Technics ...... # 513 Millennium Elastomers ...... # 910-911 Wisdom Rides Inc ...... Outside Space Cool Glow Novelties / Fun Central ...... # 924-925 Moneytree Atm ...... # 413 World Plush Inc ...... # 1008 Dalton Kid Rides Rebuilders Inc ...... Outside Space Moore Industrial Hardware . . . . . Non-Exhibiting Supplier Worldride Service & Supply Inc ...... Outside Space Daniel O'connor & Sons Inc ...... # 312 Murphy Amusements ...... Outside Space Zamperla Inc ...... Outside Space Derby Industries ...... # 824 National Prize And Toy ...... # 1118-1127 Zutter Design ...... Non-Exhibiting Supplier Dills Enterprises Llc Dba Uniglide Co ...... Outside Space National Ticket Company ...... # 601 Dobco Enterprises Ltd ...... Outside Space Oa Finance, Llc ...... # 414 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018 EPIC Continued from page 1 into the project. He reports that the $75 million loan will be paid off over a period of 25 years from a one cent sales tax that has been in place for many decades that became available after other city projects were completed. Upon arrival to Epic Waters, the architecture is Epic Waters’ glass exterior (left) brings in natural light. striking. The translucent glass Above, key figures in Epic Waters’ success (from left to right) allows guests to see into the are: Rick Coleman, American Resort Management; Grand facility on several sides of the Prairie Mayor Ron Jensen; Rick Herold, director, Grand Prai- 80,000-square-foot structure. rie Parks and Recreation; and Michael Hays, general man- Placed alongside a manmade ager, Epic Waters. AT/TIM BALDWIN pond in the city’s park area, principal and vice president rience every single day. When Steve Brinkel, WhiteWater’s 90-degree corners. the setting is both tranquil of development, American you watch the faces of young- president of Parks and “It’s not just the ‘firsts’ and exciting at the same time. Resort Management, the sters as they walk in, there is Recreation division. at the facility, but the project “It’s like a cruise ship on operators of Epic Waters. “It’s that moment of awe. That’s The lineup of attractions itself, which is a first of its land,” said Rick Coleman, going to be an amazing expe- exactly what it is supposed gives a lot of visual pop. kind — it’s the largest parks to do. We will immerse and Standing at the tallest point and recreation project in the engage you every moment is LassoLoop, the nation’s United States, to date,” Dawn you’re here.” tallest indoor Aqualoop. At Kirby, marketing manager, WhiteWater West is the almost 70 feet tall, the near WhiteWater West, said clearly supplier of the attractions vertical slide sends riders impressed. inside the water park. “We plummeting from a launch “It’s a pretty massive proj- cannot say enough about the capsule. Once the floor drops ect compared to other munici- line-up of vendors behind this out, guests drop at high speed pal projects that have been development. before rocketing through done in the United States,” It has been a a 45-degree inclined loop. said Brinkel. “I think it speaks true collabora- Yellowjacket Drop is a fusion to the vision of the folks in tion between of two popular slides — a Grand Prairie. [When select- all of us and Boomerango and Constrictor. ing rides] they were after the city to cre- This combination allows rid- breaking new ground in the ate a dream ers in double tubes to feel marketplace.” Brinkel Day or night, big fun is planned for kids and families by Epic park we hope tight turns and then complete In addition to these note- Grand Prairie can be proud weightlessness as they climb Waters year-round. AT/JEFFREY SEIFERT worthy attractions, there is of for decades to come,” said the wall of the Boomerango. continued variety. Texas Twist Aquanaut is North America’s is a high-speed body flume, first two-person AquaSphere Prairie Plunge is a near-ver- slide. In addition to serpen- tical, 60-foot plunge that has tine turns, riders are spun in spheres where they negotiate 4See EPIC, page 8

The massive retractable roof from OpenAire is the largest the company has created. AT/TIM BALDWIN February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018 EPIC projects in which we have Continued from page 6 played a part. The enclosure’s 83-foot-high cupola is the tall- riders reaching 38 mph, and est of its kind in the south- E Racers are four side-by-side western United States and mat racing slides that has one of the tallest OpenAire guests challenging family and has built.” friends head first. The retractable roof cov- Positioned over it all is ers the 62,000-square-foot the world’s largest OpenAire enclosure in bright blue. The roof structure. “OpenAire’s length is 384 feet long with retractable roof system com- a width of 160 feet. The roof bines the best of both the features 40 retractable panels. indoors and the outdoors. The Albertine added, operable roof panels open at “Personally it was a pleasure the touch of a button to let to work with a client group in the sunshine and fresh air who were so dedicated to An activity pool engages the energetic and competitive (above). Epic Waters features a dual while closing at first sign of their vision of creating some- FlowRider with instructors to help beginners get started. inclement or cold weather thing epic. From the very AT/JEFFREY SEIFERT; TIM BALDWIN to provide shelter and com- beginning I had the pleasure fort,” Nancy Patterson, direc- of being an integral part of the arcade and cabanas are also tor of design and business core team, working directly on property. development, OpenAire, with Ramaker and ARM to General Manager Michael told Amusement Today. “Epic design the waterpark from Hayes said, “People are going Waters’ guests can enjoy out- the ground up alongside the to be riding these fantastic door aquatic fun all year long client who right from day one rides most of the time, but we as a result. When the roof is wanted the very best for the fit in a little over 700 chairs open it cuts energy consump- residents of Grand Prairie. [for lounging and eating]. tion by up to 27 percent by It has been clear from the The retail is 2,000 square feet reducing the need for artificial start that they would never and the arcade is 4,000 square lighting and ventilation sys- back down from their intent feet with approximately 65 tems combined with reduced to build something epic, there player stations. We have 10 maintenance costs by the was never a moment’s hesita- cabanas that seat from eight corrosion-resistant aluminum tion, never a second guess.” to ten individuals.” In refer- structure, creating savings in In addition to slides, ence to the stylish bar (called yearly operating costs.” Epic Waters offers a dual Longboards), Hays added, “OpenAire has developed FlowRider; Rascal’s Roundup, “We wanted to cater to all riders get positioned to be said, “The city of Grand many customized, record- an AquaPlay 1050 play struc- individuals. The children are successful. The attraction can Prairie has really invested breaking retractable enclo- ture that sports 40 water fea- coming to enjoy the facility, remove the center divider to into their parks and are suc- sures for different venues tures a 300-gallon tipping but so are the adults. We have allow skilled body boarders ceeding, which is why they around the world,” said Mark bucket; and a lazy river, the a full-service bar — beer, to do standing maneuvers. have received the gold medal Albertine, CEO OpenAire. longest indoor river in Texas. wine and cocktails for your Ramaker & Associates award for the National Parks “Epic Waters stands out as Food, retail, private enjoyment.” were called upon for the and Recreation Association being part of one of the most birthday rooms (all over- For the dual FlowRider, design of Epic Waters. Vice two years in a row. The study- ambitious municipal park looking the water park), an the facility has guards to help President Daryl Matzke ing they did before the project and the multiple parks they visited just to figure out what they wanted. I had the opportunity to tour with them. They looked at the good, the bad and the better and that helped them zero in on what they wanted. We introduced them to leaders in the industry so that they could make informed decisions. We really worked the design to remain within the budget. Indoor water parks have to be very effective; you have a limited amount of space.” Currently, a wave pool is being constructed adjacent to the indoor facility to expand offerings starting Memorial Day weekend. “Grand Prairie is gener- ating a lot of interest in our industry. A lot of other cities and recreation departments are looking at this project with admiration. This development will set a new standard of what a community The diversity of slides from WhiteWater West offers some- The park’s river is the longest indoor river in the state of development can be,” said thing for every level of thrill-seeker. AT/TIM BALDWIN Texas. AT/TIM BALDWIN Brinkel. February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9 INTERNATIONAL

 Gardaland adding Peppa Pig area — Page 11 / Europa-Park, Moulin Rouge team up on ride — Page 11

Marvel Heroes set for Disneyland Paris USJ adds new attractions and

AT: Andrew Mellor enhances favorites for 2018 [email protected] Disney Pirate or OSAKA, Japan — Universal Studios Japan will offer two new and two enhanced large-scale attractions begin- PARIS, France — A spe- Princess: Make ning spring 2018, including the world-first, next-generation cial Marvel Summer of Super your Choice! is Heroes season is scheduled for another novelty Universal Spectacle Night Parade: The Best of Hollywood. Disneyland Paris this summer coming to This latter attraction will celebrate four of Hollywood’s most from June 10 to Sept. 30, with a Disneyland popular films, including Harry Potter, Minions, Jurassic World unique season of events due to Paris in 2018. and, making their park debut in the parade, Transformers, the take place. COURTESY born-in-Japan entertainment brand which encompasses popu- As part of the conclusion DISNEYLAND lar toys, games, animation and feature films. to Disneyland Paris’s 25th PARIS J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World and its captivating magic, anniversary celebrations, the Illumination's Minions and their mayhem, the enormous exclusive Super Heroes sea- Transformers, and the realism of the Jurassic World dinosaurs son will incorporate major ing the Marvel: Super Heroes The Marvel Summer of will come together to be recreated in a continually chang- shows, interactive experiences, United show at the Studio Super Heroes will also give ing entertainment spectacle. Park guests will be enveloped and meet and greets featuring Theatre in the heart of Walt guests the chance for a heroic and fully immersed in this brand-new and offering, which the well-known characters such as Disney Studios Park. The pro- handshake with the very first park claims will far surpass the traditional theme park parade Spider-Man, Iron Man, Captain duction will include live-action Avenger: Captain America. experience. America, Thor, Black Widow, on-stage antics with Marvel Marvel products exclusive to The parade will feature elaborately synchronized of pro- Star-Lord and Gamora during characters and cutting-edge Disneyland Paris have also been jection mapping completely covering the surroundings, floats an almost four-month period at special effects that will bring developed for the event, the that incorporate dynamic movements, high quality film light- Walt Disney Studios Park. the Incredible Hulk and Thanos first of its kind in Europe. ing, a sweeping cinematic score and performances by live In addition to all the to life — a first for Disneyland Along with the Marvel entertainers through the use of Show Orchestration, a produc- extra entertainment on offer, Paris. Spectacular projections Summer of Super Heroes, Disneyland Paris is re-imagin- will add further to the enter- Disney Pirate or Princess: Make tion technology specially developed by Universal Creative. ing its Hotel New York into tainment of the 20-minute show. your Choice! is another novelty Also set to make its debut this spring in an animation studio the Hotel New York – The Art Additional live entertain- coming to Disneyland Paris in is a brand-new theater-type show attraction starring Curious of Marvel, where guests will ment, all of which will feature the spring and involves more George, in which the beloved character comes to life and inter- be transported to the action- Marvel characters both good than 85 performers. acts with guests. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter's world- packed world of the Marvel and villainous, will include Featuring a Pirates float class attraction Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey will Super Heroes. The new-look Stark Expo presents: Energy and Disney Princesses float, the be enhanced with the latest technological advancements and hotel is due to open by 2020. of Tomorrow in the open-air experience culminates in visi- relaunched in late March. The award-winning thrill ride will be Among the new themed Production Courtyard and The tors taking part in one of two elevated to offer guests even more exhilaration, using state-of- attractions to be included this Guardians of the Galaxy Dance- routines, Pirates or Princesses, the-art technology to take them on an unforgettable adventure. summer will be various shows Off, also in the Production along with Disney characters. USJ also will thrill guests with a dramatic upgrade of the held several times a day, includ- Courtyard. popular live stunt show WaterWorld, which has been enjoyed by more than 100 million people over the years and provides Hollywood-quality entertainment. —Andrew Mellor

Spider-Man is one of the Marvel Super Heroes to be featured at Disneyland Paris later this USJ's live stunt show WaterWorld will be dramatically year. Guests to Disneyland Paris this summer also will enjoy meet-and-greet opportunities- upgraded for 2018. COURTESY UNIVERSAL STUDIOS with Captain America. COURTESY DISNEYLAND PARIS/MARVEL ENTERTAINMENT 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018 Ducati-themed attraction area motoring to Mirabilandia in 2019 RAVENNA, Italy — The over the world,” said Fernando iconic Italian motorcycle man- Eiroa, CEO of Parques Reunidos. ufacturer Ducati is partnering “Ducati is a global brand with with Madrid, Spain-based glob- a great reputation as well as al leisure park operator Parques a strong local presence. Ducati Reunidos to develop a new fun World continues the strong zone at the latter’s Mirabilandia Italian sports and automo- theme park tive tradition and provides an Mirabilandia is located in engaging and innovative experi- Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region ence for motorcycling fans." — where the Ducati brand was The motorcycle company founded in 1926. is equally enthusiastic over its The project, which will major foray into the amusement occupy several acres and is industry. expected to open next year, is “Ducati World will give vis- designed for families as well as itors a chance to live an exciting fans of Ducati motorcycles and journey inside our brand,” said accessories. An early concept Alessandro Cicognani, Ducati's drawing of the new area reveals licensing and corporate part- a large Ferris wheel, a roller nership director. “Thanks to coaster, and a number of smaller this agreement, together with rides and attractions that will Parques Reunidos, we’re devel- incorporate motion simulator oping the first motorcycle- and virtual reality technology. themed area in an Italian amuse- The roller coaster, described ment park. Mirabilandia’s loca- Noted motorcycle manufacturer Ducati is teaming up with Mirabilandia to create a new as “new generation,” will repli- tion, at the heart of the Motor amusement zone at the Italian theme park. It will feature Ducati-themed rides and attrac- cate the experience of motorcy- Valley, adds further value to this tions for all ages. COURTESY PARQUES REUNIDOS cle riding and is being supplied project dedicated to fun.” by Maurer of Munich, Germany. Plans for the amusement about motorcycling history and The new fun zone also will Mirabilandia is Italy’s larg- “This partnership and area envision a showroom about the sociocultural context include a Ducati shop stock- est theme park, encompassing investment will transform where visitors will find the in which the Italian brand has ing official Ducati and Ducati 850,000 square meters and 47 Mirabilandia, empowering the most popular Ducati models. grown through the 90 years it Scrambler merchandise, as well attractions. park to attract visitors from all Visitors will be able to learn existed. as themed restaurants. —Dean Lamanna February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 11 Marvel 4D Experience lands at Madame Tussauds Singapore SENTOSA, Singapore — Treasured superheros from the Marvel universe have descended on Madame Tussauds Singapore in both wax and celluloid form, thanks to debut of the Marvel 4D Experience — the first Marvel attraction of its type in Asia. The immersive zone, In the Marvel 4D Cinema, which opened in mid- guests are transported straight December, introduces Spider- into the heart of an action- Man, Iron Man and Captain packed, 10-minute animated America within innovative film, with Singapore land- and highly interactive sets. marks serving as the setting. The fun continues inside an State-of-the-art projection adjacent 4D theater. enhances an epic battle as the “Madame Tussauds superheroes, including Hulk, Singapore is honored to attempt to save the city from invite Marvel’s well-loved Doctor Doom. characters to our attraction,” With this latest addition, said Greg Connor, general Madame Tussauds Singapore manager. “With the influx continues the chain’s trend of Marvel movies and their in offering interactive experi- massive fan base, we wanted ences along with the enter- The first Marvel universe-themed attraction of its type in Asia, the Marvel 4D Experience to create an all-new experi- tainment brand’s famous wax convenes a number of characters — including Captain America, Spider-Man, Iron Man and ence for our guests.” displays. Hulk — for some high-tech film and photo-op fun at Madame Tussauds Singapore. COURTESY The permanent exhibition —Dean Lamanna MADAME TUSSAUDS SINGAPORE features wax representations of the superheros and offers Europa-Park, Moulin Rouge announce Eurosat - CanCan Coaster both up-close and scenic- RUST, Germany — A new attraction Eurosat, the main attraction of the backdrop photo opportuni- inspired by Paris and the Moulin Rouge French-themed area at Europa Park, is ties. Spider-Man, for example, universe will be launched by this summer being renewed to give a new look that will hangs acrobatically from the at Europa-Park, which has been awarded showcase 19th century Paris. On the facade side of a building in a set- best theme park in the world for four con- overlooking the roller coaster entrance, ting that recreates Singapore’s secutive years. visitors will see an accurate reproduction iconic Marina Bay area, while The arrangement is a first for the of the Moulin Rouge at the Belle Epoque Iron Man sports an armored Moulin Rouge, which had never collabo- time. Inside, they will discover a well-deco- suit with a built-in LED dis- rated with a theme park. The two enter- rated space full of references to the Moulin play for added dynamic effect. tainment institutions were drawn togeth- Rouge and Parisian symbols, before board- Guests can also try on parts of er through mutual regard, as both are ing vehicles for an experience in the dark famous throughout the world for their at the heart of the City of Lights. Iron Man’s suit. quality and the unique experiences they COURTESY EUROPA-PARK Renamed Eurosat - CanCan Coaster, Standing amid a war-torn provide. The partnership will see an exten- the project is being driven by the passion cityscape, Captain America is sive retheming of the Eurosat indoor roller Clerico, chairman of the Moulin Rouge, these two family-owned companies from poised to defeat evil, save civi- coaster. Signing took place in Paris at and Michael Mack, managing partner of neighboring countries have for innovation. lization and allow visitors to the Moulin Rouge between Jean-Jacques Europa-Park. sidle up for a picture snap. Gardaland announces new themed Peppa Pig area for 2018 AT: Andrew Mellor ular TV series broadcast daily [email protected] on Rai Yo Yo and an array of CASTELNUOVO DEL licensed merchandise. GARDA, Italy — Gardaland in “Peppa Pig is an exception- Italy has announced that it will ally strong brand, known and open a new dedicated themed beloved among families all over area, Peppa Pig Land, in 2018, the world, and she has been which among other facilities chosen for various reasons,” will offer families with young owners of Peppa Pig. The deal explained Gardaland CEO children three new Peppa Pig- gives Merlin and Gardaland Aldo Maria Vigevani. “Because themed attractions. rights to roll out new attrac- of her preschool target, which The new area will be locat- tion formats, as well as themed Gardaland sees as increasing- ed next to the park’s Fantasy accommodations featuring ly more important within the Gardaland’s Peppa Pig Land will offer families with young Kingdom and will further Peppa Pig and her family and landscape of its public, Peppa children three new Peppa Pig themed attractions, among expand the pre-school offering friends, in all territories exclud- Pig deals with different daily other facilities. COURTESY GARDALAND RESORT/EONE for families, which currently ing the UK and in China, where life aspects typical of children includes Prezzemolo Land and Merlin has rights on a non- but also common among adults, perfect for Gardaland!” with Merlin to make the new Kung Fu Panda Academy for exclusive basis. communicating through direct, Olivier Dumont, President, attraction a magical and memo- younger guests. Peppa Pig is one of the clear, simple and immediately eOne Family, said: “Launching rable destination where favorite The announcement fol- world’s biggest brands in the usable language. Children adore Peppa Pig Land in Gardaland characters and locations from lows a partnership announced market of pre-school entertain- her and she is a bearer of signifi- is an exciting development the show are brought to life to in October between Merlin ment, and in Italy it is a lead- cant educational values – such and a clear demonstration of give families a truly unforget- Entertainments/Gardaland and ing preschool brand with huge as family and parents first and the brand’s enduring appeal in table day experience.” Entertainment One (eOne), awareness — thanks to the pop- foremost. In other words, she is Italy. We are working closely 12 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018

WATER PARKS & RESORTS

 Amusement Today subscriptions make the perfect gift! Call (817) 460-7220 to order! Wilderness at The Smokies debuts guest amenities, new sound system

AT: Jeffrey Seifert subwoofers. [email protected] “Zones allow volume levels to be adjusted individually,” SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. — In adds Brown. “The park also time for Memorial Day of last sometimes brings in live enter- year, Wilderness at the Smok- tainment. This way they can fire ies, Tennessee’s largest water their system up and the park park resort, completed a major can turn that zone down. We renovation to its outdoor water also took great care to ensure park. Showing its committment that none of the zones overlap to visiting vacationers, the park or compete with other areas.” added ancillary amenities to Careful consideration improve the guest experience was taken to place the appro- that included the addition of a priate speakers in the correct splash pad, cabanas, new bar locations. For instance, loud- and restaurant and a state-of- speakers around the lazy river the-art outdoor sound system to have a narrow focus and short upgrade the guest’s entertain- throw pattern to allow music ment experience. to be heard in the lazy river, Nine new private, cabin- Tennessee’s largest water park but keep sound away from esque, climate-controlled, pool resort completed a major the nearby guest rooms. To side VIP cabanas made their de- renovation to its outdoor overcome the roar of the wave but at the park this past season. area. Treehouse Springs pool a subwoofer was added Guests can assert a “home-base” was designed for to amplify the bass. Each of the for the day at one of the new water park enthusiasts cabanas has an individual vol- state-of-the-art cabanas, each in training. ume control allowing guests to equipped with a flat-screen tele- COURTESY WILDERNESS set the level to their personal vision, ceiling fan, luxury-com- AT THE SMOKIES preference. fort furniture, refrigerator, over- When Brown and his team sized lush towels and the pièce on their favorite sports event fired up the new system the re- de résistance — air condition- featured on the flat screen TV’s. sort management was amazed ing. Sliding glass doors helped Shakers at the Lake joins Blue with the full range sound, fi- keep the indoor temperature Gills Cove as a second option for delity and intelligibility. “In the stable while still allowing views refreshments and a bite to eat. past when they put a mic into of the park. Poolside attendants Since 2008, Wilderness at the system to make announce- were on hand to cater to the ca- the Smokies has offered thrilling fun and exploration, where the “When we took on the proj- ments, no one could understand bana guests’ every need with waterslides and attractions for younger kids can have a blast, ect we knew we needed to start anything,” Brown concludes. beverage and menu service. The adults. This past summer, Tree- away from their older siblings. from scratch with loudspeakers “Now the water park has the new VIP Cabanas joined 14 ex- house Springs made its debut as Parents were able to comfort- that withstand the weather as cleanest system they have ever isting cabanas that feature all a fully themed children’s water ably keep a watchful eye on well as control the sound, keep- experienced and no concerns the same great amenities, but fun zone. Designed specifically their children and soak up ing it on the entertainment areas about the durability of their in- are not climate-controlled. for the youngest of water park sun from the newly expanded yet away from guest rooms,” ex- vestment. One Systems Direct Those not able to enjoy a enthusiasts, the zero-depth en- chaise lounge deck. plained Mike Brown, president Weather loudspeakers consis- climate-controlled cabana were try wading pool features more For the sound system up- and CEO of M&M Productions tently impress with their sound able to cool off at the new Shak- than eight water features in- grade the park owners contact- USA. “There was no question in quality and weather resistance. ers at the Lake restaurant for a cluding sprinklers, bubblers, ed M&M Productions USA, my mind that we were going to The park should be set for years cold beverage and snacks. The geyser jets, waterfall splashes, headquartered in Oak Ridge, use One Systems Direct Weath- to come.” U-shaped bar welcomes guests dumping buckets, and inter- Tenn., to design and install a er loudspeakers for this proj- Wilderness at the Smok- 21 and older to pull up a chair active antiquities galore. Cen- new distributed sound rein- ect. We have had tremendous ies offers two seasonal outdoor and enjoy a cold beer or piña co- trally located, a treehouse tower forcement system to handle au- results with them in the past. water parks and an 84-de- lada while they check the score with three slides offer hours of dio needs now and in the future. Not only do they have a rugged gree year-round indoor water design that can withstand the park — exclusive to overnight rigors of the weather, but they guests. Featuring 713 rooms, sound great, which was another suites and villas, Wilderness at requirement the owners had of the Smokies offers other -ame the system.” nities that are available to the Brown and M&M project public, including an indoor manager Tim Scobee worked family adventure center, dining, with the One Systems design shopping, a 36-hole champion- team to create zoned systems ship golf course, and more than that addressed the park’s re- 200,000 square feet of meeting quirements, while resolving and convention space. A year- inconsistent coverage, poor round water park vacation vocal intelligibility and lack of destination, Wilderness at the volume control in different park Smokies delivers exciting lodg- areas. Ultimately the group cre- ing and entertainment options These cabin-esque cabanas provide guests with a multitude of amenities, including air ated an eight-zone system made for families vacationing in the conditioning. Carefully aimed speakers (right) for the new audio system keep the sound in up of a combination of One Sys- Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg/Se- the activity areas and away from guest rooms. COURTESY WILDERNESS AT THE SMOKIES tems Hybrid loudspeakers and vierville region. February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 13 14 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018

The city of Farmington, Mich., hopes to repur- tourist destination as the spring-training home of pose a local high school into a recreation center the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rock- that includes a small indoor water park. The school NEWSSPLASH ies Major League Baseball teams. Although Great AT: Jeffery L. Seifert board has decided to close the school at the end Wolf Lodge got its start in cold-weather climates, [email protected] of the 2018-19 school year. Repurposing Harrison the company has built several resorts in warm- High School will help preserve the legacy of the weather areas of the country, noting that guests facility, where many of the city's residents earned marina, restaurants, shops, cafes, residences in- will flee temperature extremes at both ends of the their high school diploma. The conversion will cluding villas and apartments, and white sandy thermometer. The Grapevine, Texas, indoor wa- cost between $19 million and $20 million. City of- beaches along the Indian Ocean coastline. ter park remains popular even when temperatures ficials are working on a plan to finance the project. • soar into the triple digits. Scottsdale, however, will • Grizzly Jack's Grand Bear Resort in North be the first where 100-degree temperatures are In January the new, four-story Carla Madison Utica, Ill., was forced to close its Grand Bear Falls the norm from April through October. Recreation Center in Denver, Colo., opened to Waterpark in January following an early morning • the public. The $44 million project features mul- fire that damaged the indoor water park. Fortu- An artificial lagoon in Jacksonville, Fla., is set tiple amenities including a lap pool, lazy river, nately no one was injured and the guest areas of to become the largest man-made water feature in waterslides and a kids' swim area with a tipping the resort were not affected. Most of the fire was the U.S. once the lagoon fills with water to its 10- bucket play structure with small slides. The center in a mechanical equipment area adjacent to the foot depth. The 14-acre Crystal Lagoon, at the is named for Carla Madison, a city councilwoman water park. Firefighters were hindered by the cold Beachwalk planned community features a sugary who worked to secure money for recreation op- weather and the fact there are no fire hydrants in sand beach with palm trees and winding footpaths portunities in her district. Madison lost her battle the area, so water tender trucks had to refill at a surrounding a turquoise lagoon. Kayaking, paddle to cancer in 2011, but her vibrant spirit lives on nearby school. boarding, swimming, snorkeling and sailing are all in the new rec center. One of the distinctive fea- The water park will remain closed until repairs available to guests living within the community. tures of the facility is that some of the elliptical can be made. Although the lodge did not sustain The water is kept clean and sparkling blue by bikes generate electricity to power a light display any damage, the 24,000-square-foot indoor water a proprietary system, developed and operated on the facade of the building. The public art piece park is the primary attraction at this time of year. by Crystal Lagoons. It uses ultrasonic disinfec- called “Circuit,” by artist Erik Carlsos, changes Management is permitting cancellations and of- tion pulses that require only one percent of the colors as designated cardio room equipment is fering a full refund to guests who had booked a chemicals and two percent of the energy used by used by patrons. stay at the resort. conventional swimming pool filtration systems. • • The technology works with salt, brackish or fresh Hawana Aqua Park in Dhofar, Oman, opened Great Wolf Resorts has announced a new water. in January as the very first water park in the coun- Great Wolf Lodge Resort for the city of Scotts- The Crystal Lagoon is exclusively for use by try of Oman. Covering 16 acres, the water park in- dale, Ariz. Set to open the second half of 2019, residents of the Beachwalk community. Additional cludes waterslides, leisure pools, a toddlers’ pool, the lodge will feature a 350-room all suite ho- resident-only amenities include waterslides, a min- pool-front cabins, swimming pools and a wave tel; 85,000-square-foot indoor water park; iature golf course, 2,500-square-foot splash park pool. 27,000-square-foot family adventure center with for dogs, Caribbean-themed clubhouse and a Like many middle east countries, Oman is try- indoor miniature golf, a ropes course, arcade, and 3,000-square-foot swim-up bar at the edge of the ing to position itself as a tourist destination. The MagicQuest; outdoor pool with cabanas; and the lagoon. Beachwalk will eventually include single- Hawana Aqua Park is part of the Hawana tourist line-up of activity areas and restaurants that typi- family homes and twin villas on the lagoon with complex that includes the Salalah Rotana Resort cally accompany a Great Wolf Lodge. The location, a total of 761 residences. 175,000 square feet of with 900 hotel rooms, a 170-berth super-yacht next door to Salt River Fields, is already a popular retail space will feature shops and restaurants. ADG to build new indoor water park resort in Catskill Mountains

The Kartrite, a new project from the owners of Camelback Resort and Camelbeach Water Park, promises to be a new international destination and is expected to help revitalize tourism to the Catskill Mountains region of New York. ADG has been contracted to design and build the new indoor water park resort, which is set to open in early 2019. COURTESY CAMELBACK RESORT February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 15 16 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018 PARKS, FAIRS & ATTRACTIONS  Magazine to mark Quassy's 110th season — Page 20 / Fairs — Pages 22-29 Uniquely fun ‘construction zone’ expanding by seven acres Diggerland USA sees largest capital improvement project yet

AT: Dean Lamanna excavator. [email protected] Additional amenities for the expansion project, includ- WEST BERLIN, N.J. — ing a concession building Diggerland USA is under- and guest restroom facilities, taking an ambitious round are being fabricated by the of actual excavation work in Diggerland team from used order to create more opportu- shipping containers. nity for construction-themed “Our guests appreci- family fun. ate the unique construction Last November, the motif of the property, which unique amusement park in we carry from ride design southern New Jersey broke all the way through to infra- ground on a multimillion-dol- structure,” said Yan Girlya, lar, seven-plus-acre expansion park co-president and owner. — the largest capital improve- “Recycling the shipping con- ment project since the prop- tainers as part of the proj- erty’s debut in 2014. ect, for example, made lots of The park, which allows sense for us.” children and parents to ride, “We’ve done a tremen- drive and operate modified, dous amount of research over full-sized excavators, dumper the past year determining trucks, backhoes and other how we can add the greatest heavy machinery in a safe, amount of value to our guests’ fully supervised environment, experience,” said Ilya Girlya, will add five new attractions to park co-president and owner. its existing 25 when it reopens “Including these attractions for the season March 17. in the cost of admission and The largest addition is a extending their use to our 130-foot-high, 700-foot long annual pass holders is impor- zipline from Soaring Eagle, tant to our team, because it’s Inc. of Logan, Utah, spanning appreciated by our visitors.” nearly the entire footprint of • diggerlandusa.com the park. Aside from the new rides (the others had not yet been revealed by the time Amusement Today went to press), the expansion includes the addition of a corporate events and groups pavilion, a climate-controlled dining / party pavilion for birthday celebrations, expanded parking infrastructure and upgrades to the Diggerland XL program. The latter is a heavy machinery experience for adults with one-on-one instruction and Diggerland USA co-presidents and owners Yan and Ilya Girlya (left) review the expansion plans for the West Berlin, N.J., package options that include park. A 130-foot-high, 700-foot-long zipline from Soaring Eagle, Inc., (top) is one of five new rides that will debut this sea- a number of offbeat thrills, son. The Greased Beast (right), an unusual, construction-themed family ride, was unveiled at Diggerland USA last season. such as car-smashing with an COURTESY DIGGERLAND USA February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 17 18 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018 ADG’s first mountain coaster install in the Rockies AT: B. Derek Shaw FAST FACTS [email protected]

Ride Name FRISCO, Colo. — Dec. 1, The Rocky Mountain 2017, was the first day ADG’s Coaster at latest mountain coaster opened Copper Mountain to the public. Located at Copper Mountain Ski Resort, high in the Type: Mountain Coaster Rockies, it is the first time an attraction of this type has been built The Rocky Mountain Coast- Owner on U.S. Forest Service land. er at Copper Mountain was Powdr Corporation/ Amusement Today spoke with part of a $20 million capital Copper Mountain Resort Shawn McDonald, director of upgrade to the resort. Total Track mountain sports, Copper Moun- COURTESY COPPER MOUNTAIN SKI RESORT 619 sections, each tain Resort, about the project. weighing 117-225 pounds He explained how the attraction coasters elsewhere to learn more etation, concrete pouring, lift track sections in using scaffolding came to fruition: “This past sum- about what they are like. In July components, bottom cart build- and did a lot of hiking and lift- Length: 5,800 feet mer we had a $20 million capital 2016, he started walking the ing and re-directs were all taking ing to install track sections. But Top Speed: 25 mph upgrade into our infrastructure mountain to look at placement place. Nov. 21 began load testing by doing this we also had a softer for our year-round operations. for winter and summer opera- by ASTM, along with Forest Ser- footprint on the existing ground Ride Time: 8 min. The alpine coaster was a part of tions of an alpine coaster attrac- vice licensing, prior to the public surface.” that upgrade goal of offering There were some firsts for the Capacity: 100-120 pph tion. Later that year after ADG launch. a new experience to all of our was selected as the manufacturer; The project was not without Copper Mountain project. “ADG Special Features guests who come to Copper to ex- they designed the track layout challenges. McDonald explained: was able to change the color of Average grade - 10.9% perience the outdoors. We offer a and physically staked that de- “Due to the layout of our moun- the coaster carts to cedar green to 25% of the track is more great skiing/riding winter experi- sign. Ride fabrication began in tain, wetlands were a unique fit into our surroundings better, than 16-feet in the air ence, but we are focusing more on February 2017 and by April, (over challenge for the layout of the along with finding a vendor to Two 360-degree turns with our summer and fall seasons too. the top of the snow) the site line coaster. We specifically built over dull some telespar [coaster track three bridges The Rocky Mountain Coaster was cleared for the downhill/up- and around the wetlands. Our legs] to a rust color to reduce re- Operated year-round at Copper Mountain was in the hill track. The first of three bridge bridge over the Loverly ski trail flectivity at the base area and planning stages for three years installs over ski trails started in is 110 feet long, [weighing] 66,000 match the natural environment,” Number of sleds: 34 total and was built in seven months, May. By June, track started arriv- pounds, and was installed over said McDonald. “The coaster was Elevation Change: 430 ft [from] May – November 2017.” ing, being staged on the moun- snow in May with a 300 ton crane. designed and built with the wet- Five years ago, McDonald tain, with July 5, the first day of From the construction side, not lands, road access, and existing Supplier: ADG started talking to people along track installation. Between July having vehicle access to the entire with riding mountain/alpine and November, grading, reveg- job site was a challenge. We hiked 4See ADG, page 20 February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 19 20 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018 v AMUSEMENT PARK Plano Crayola Experience opens in spring 60,000-square-foot Although best known for its MARKET PLACE crayons and markers, the 114-year- attraction coming old company now has more than to The Shops at 1,500 proprietary products and technologies, which serve as the Willow Bend mall inspiration for Crayola Experi- ence’s 22 hands-on activities and PLANO, Texas — The Lone live entertainment. Star state is getting a huge dose of "Crayola Experience is more "Crayola Experience pro- Crayola color. than just an attraction. It’s a place vides a genuinely unique experi- The iconic family brand re- where families come together to ence that allows families to have cently announced that it will create, play and make memories fun together, and that speaks to open a Crayola Experience at that will last a lifetime,” Crayola the essence of our reinvention of The Shops at Willow Bend next CEO Smith Holland said. “When The Shops at Willow Bend as a spring. This is the fourth location we visited Plano, we saw a friend- town center," said Scott Wolstein, for the popular family attraction, ly, growing, family-oriented com- CEO of Starwood Retail Partners. which also has facilities in Or- munity, and we can’t wait to be a "This will be a gift to the young lando, Fla., Mall of America in dynamic and colorful part of it.” and young-at-heart of Plano and Bloomington, Minn., and Easton, At Crayola Experience Plano the greater Dallas metro area." Pa. — Crayola’s home since 1903. guests will enjoy classic experienc- Crayola Experience will be The 60,000-square-foot con- es such as naming and wrapping open 365 days a year and will hire cept will be a new addition to the their own Crayola crayon (Wrap more than 200 part-time and full- mall, situated between the food It Up!), starring in their own col- time employees. It also will host court and Macy’s. It also will in- oring page (Be a Star), using their private events, group trips and clude a 5,000-square-foot retail touch to bring art to 4-D life (Color birthday parties. Families can buy space, The Crayola Store, which Magic), creating melted wax spin- annual passes, allowing them to features the world's largest se- art (Drip Art) and learning how experience the magic of color all lection of Crayola products and crayons are made in a live Factory year long. unique souvenirs, such as plush Show, as well as some new experi- •CrayolaExperience.com and apparel. ences that will debut in Texas. Magazine to mark Quassy's 110th season MIDDLEBURY, Conn. – Quassy same family for 81 years. Amusement & Waterpark will “Few small businesses can make publish a commemorative 32-page such a distinction,” noted owner color magazine in recognition of its George Frantzis II, whose grand- 110th season of operation this year. father purchased the property with “With so much history here at two business partners in 1937. “We the park, we saw it fitting to under- now have fourth-generation family take such an endeavor to mark this members working here and that is special occasion,” said Eric Ander- extremely rewarding to see.” son, a park owner. “This commemo- The magazine will be available rative publication will be one our val- free of change at the park in May and ued guests and business partners will also available for downloading online. hold on to for years to come, as it will “While our intention is to offer be filled with interesting stories and photos about the hard copies at no charge, guests have the op- the property.” portunity to contribute to Give Kids The World,” Quassy is only one of a handful of remaining Frantzis said of the publication. A donation box will trolley parks in the U.S. Before the Great Depres- be located next to the magazines in the park’s Sea- sion of 1929 there were more than 1,000 such fa- son Pass & Group Sales office. cilities in the nation, most of them located in the Advertising opportunities in the magazine are Northeast and New England. In addition, the lake- available with a March 1 closing date. Contact the front park has been owned and operated by the park office at 1-800-FOR-PARK for ad details.

ADG ADG’s ability to be flexible, focus depending on the year. “That Continued from page 18 on safety and a passion for what gives us July and August for con- they do confirmed ADG was the struction and sunbathing. Our ski trails in mind. We didn’t want obvious choice.” snow typically melts out by July to change the flow of our - win There has been enthusiastic 4 for on-hill summer projects to ter skiers/riders. Copper, along acceptance from the public. Mc- start. ADG was able to start fabri- with ADG, worked in a partner- Donald said, “Overall there has cation of the coaster parts in Feb- ship with the Forest Service from been a huge excitement from our ruary, March 2017 in New York the planning stages to the final guests of all ages. When we post- State while we were still open for product.” ed the Rocky Mountain Coaster at winter operations here in Colo- Copper Mountain was quite Copper on social media, we had a rado. That was a big bonus for us pleased with the manufacturer. big following. to get ahead of the project,” said “ADG supplied an installation “The anticipation was for our McDonald. instructor for the entire process summer guests to enjoy the ride Gary Rodgers, Copper to work with our Copper team. and experience Copper. The base Mountain’s president and gen- Due to the newness of the project of the coaster is at 9,700 feet, while eral manager summed things up, in this area, all contractors and the top is 10,200 feet. [The] winter “The Rocky Mountain Coaster teams within the coaster project [season] has brought a pleasant is an ideal year-round attraction could call ADG and work through surprise from our guests who are for just about everyone. We hope any issues that occurred,” said here to ski/ride but are riding the to see grandparents going down Keep our amusement park industry strong! McDonald. “Working with ADG coaster also,” said McDonald. with their grandkids and the Buy products and services from these suppliers. to install our newest resort attrac- Copper Mountain can have kids-at-heart taking a ride with tion has been a great experience. snow for up to ten months a year, their friends and family.” February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 21 22 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018 Western Fairs Association ends another successful convention AT: Pam Sherborne [email protected] ANAHEIM, Calif. — The 2018 Western Fairs Associa- tion (WFA) Convention and Trade Show was deemed a grand success, with a sold out trade show for the fifth year in a row and a large attendance filling the trade show floor and participating in educational and social activities. This year's convention was held at the Anaheim (Ca- lif.) Marriott, Jan. 3-6. "Our 2018 Convention and Trade Show – Go West – has gone down as one of our best conventions yet," said Chris Pickering, WFA com- There were approximately 1,300 attendees at the 2018 WFA This is the fifth year in a row that the annual WFA trade show munications. Convention and Trade Show, which ran Jan. 3-6, at the Ana- has sold out. There were 120 exhibitors at the 2018 WFA Pickering said over 1,300 heim (Calif.) Marriot. This educational session was just one of Convention and Trade Show held Jan. 3-6, Anaheim, Calif. members attended the event many that was very well attended. COURTESY WFA COURTESY WFA and there were 120 exhibitors on the trade show floor. gether industry leaders, past, navigate the convention with year included: Relation- Rising Costs & Limited Avail- Highlights this year in- present, and future, to learn ease. And, the WFA encour- ships – Reputation – Return: ability. cluded keynote addresses about WFA committees and aged its members to hang on How Public Relations Really Other topics were Mar- from speakers Rita Murray, hear from the Merrill Award to the app as it will be used Works; Business Planning as keting to the Media: How to Generational Specialist, and finalists. year-round to offer helpful a Tool to Weather Economic get Attention for Your Event; Jim Teece, president of the WFA partnered with hints and educational infor- Conditions; Social Media Crisis Communication and Jackson County Fair and Grandstand Apps this year mation. Hacks; Animals at Fairs: Pro- Planning: How to be Ready Expo, Central Point, Ore. The to bring members the official Educational sessions tecting Our Fairs from Ex- When Bad Things Happen; Leadership Luncheon, an- WFA mobile app. Attendees abound at the WFA con- tremism; Transfer of Owner- other highlight, brought to- were able to use the app to vention. Some of those this ship, and Temporary Labor: 4See WFA, page 24 Sarah Cummings becomes new WFA executive director

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Sarah Cummings, state level with the Colorado Department of Agri- the new head of the Western Fairs Association culture. (WFA) as of Feb. 1, was given the opportunity to get Always an agricultural enthusiast, Cummings a feel for her new role during the association's 2018 was only 24 years old when she became the CEO of Convention and Trade Show — Go West — held the Sonoma-Marin Fair in her hometown of Peta- Jan. 3-6, in Anaheim, Calif. luma, Calif. She also has served as the CEO at the She is taking over the reins from long-time Salinas Valley Fair, King City, Calif. WFA Secretary Stephen Chambers, who served as Cummings also has served on both the WFA the head of the WFA for 31 years. and California Fairs Alliance Boards. "I am thrilled to have been selected by the West- She is a a graduate of Cal Poly, San Luis Obis- ern Fairs Association Board of Directors to assume po, Calif., and she is excited to return to California the lead role of the association as its executive direc- to the WFA's headquarters in Sacramento. tor beginning in February 2018," Cummings said. "I The WFA was founded in 1922 and incorporat- am very much looking forward to leading the WFA ed in 1945. A nonprofit trade association serving the into its next chapter.” fair industry throughout the western United States Cummings has some big shoes to fill at the and Canada, the association represents fair-related WFA, but that is nothing new to her. She comes businesses, fair management, fair board directors, to the WFA from the Colorado State Fair, Pueblo, festivals and industry associations. Seen here at the 2018 WFA Convention and Trade Show where she served as general manager since 2015. The membership is represented by a 21-mem- is Sarah Cummings, the new WFA executive director, with There, she took over from the popular previous ber elected board of directors that governs the ac- outgoing Stephen Chambers, who has retired as the WFA general manager, Chris Wiseman, who held that tivities and policies of the association. secretary after 31 years. The WFA event was held Jan. 3-6, position for 12 years. Wiseman moved on to the —Pam Sherborne Anaheim, Calif. COURTESY WFA February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 23 24 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018 WFA IAFE Management Conference set for April 7-10 Continued from page 22 MINNESOTA, Minn. — The 2018 In- Point: Using Change Management To Drive Fairs: There's an App for ternational Association of Fairs and Ex- Excellence” and “Hot Seat Moderated Ses- That; How to Read & Under- positions (IAFE) Management Conference sion.” stand a Financial Statement, will be held Saturday-Tuesday, April 7-10, Attendees will be able to tour the Uni- and Tracking Sponsorships. 2018, at the Hilton Minneapolis. versity of Minnesota, St. Paul, and the Min- Along with educational The theme of this year’s conference is nesota State Fair that afternoon. That eve- sessions, there also was an "Impressions That Last.” The programming ning will consist of a social hour and dinner. International Association of for the conference is designed for upper Monday's events include sessions Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) management staff, but all fair members are Seattle Mariners Major League Baseball “Where Are We Going?” and breakout Institute of Fair Management invited to join. game. That night a welcome reception is workshops. Networking opportunities are Course presented on the first The conference is set to begin on Sat- scheduled. planned for that evening. morning of the convention. urday with an IAFE board meeting and a Sunday's activities begin with a break- A breakfast is set for Tuesday morning. Scheduled throughout were chance to attend a Minnesota Twins versus fast and is followed by the sessions “Pivot —Pam Sherborne IAFE Zone meetings. Social gatherings included the Wednesday evening Welcome Reception, the Thursday evening President's Reception and Entertainment Showcase, and the Indus- try Awards Celebration on Friday evening. The Pacific Coast Showmen's Associa- tion held its Banquet and Ball on Saturday evening. During the day on Sat- urday, attendees had the opportunity to sign up for "The Last Chance Elephant Experi- ence," which featured a visit to the world famous Johnson family elephant ranch with an exclusive meet-and-greet and an educational overview of elephant care and preser- vation. Appearing at Friday's Entertainment Showcase were Alfred & Seymore, Ashley Barron, B2Wins, Bee Gees Gold Tribute, The Best of Everything Band, Brewers Grade, George Strait Tribute, Uptown Funk and Coffey Anderson. The 2019 98th annual WFA Convention and Trade Show is set for Jan. 13-16, Reno, Nev.

2018 WFA Award Winners Hall of Fame Charlie Barboni, Marin County Fair, San Rafael, Calif.; Louie Brown, Kahn, Soares & Conway, LLP, Hanford, Calif., and Norm Towne, Norman C. Towne Consulting & Advocacy, Sacramento, Calif. Merrill Award New Mexico State Fair, Albuquerque - Autism Awareness Sensory Station, and San Diego County Fair, Del Mar, Calif., - New Citizen Inclusion Program. Barham Award WZ Productions LLC, San Diego, Calif. - Out at the Fair. February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 25 26 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018 MIDWAY MIDWAYLIGHTS MARKET PLACE COMPILED: Pam Sherborne [email protected]

General manager of the Gallatin County ment of more than 25,000 square-feet of roof- Fairgrounds, Bozeman, Mont., Lori Cox has ing on the building. When the work itself will be left her position after a three-year run. done hasn’t been determined. According to an article in the Bozeman No events have had to be relocated be- Daily Chronicle, Cox cited the reason for her cause of the roof problem. departure was the high cost of living in the city. Barn 13 was built in 1909 and features a She also said she found another opportunity 181-by-111-foot dirt show ring. It came close elsewhere. She was not able to release the de- to demolition in the mid-1990s because it had tails of where she’d be headed when the article been declared unsafe. was released. Historic preservationists prevailed on then- During her time as general manager, Cox Gov. Jim Edgar to consider alternatives. The has seen major growth at the fairgrounds. The building was spared when revised cost esti- fair has experienced roughly a 60 percent in- mates showed it was no more expensive to re- crease in attendance and facility rentals for pair the building than to demolish it and replace 2017 were up about 25 percent. it with a new structure. “It’s been a wild three years,” Cox said, in Barn 13 is adjacent to the Coliseum, the the news report. “Probably one of the things 116-year-old building that was used year-round I’m most proud of is being able to take a fair- for everything from horse shows to midget car ground, that really was ready for the next level, races. The building was closed in 2016 because, and bump it three levels.” among other things, roof support beams were The work she accomplished, though, hasn’t corroded and the building was deemed unsafe been all about her, adding she worked with a for occupancy. Repair costs are estimated at great group of people who helped get the fair- $3.7 million. grounds where it is now. • Cox leaves the position on a high note, with Susan Sankey, former general manager, last year’s fair breaking records in attendance, Kansas State Fair, Hutchinson, announced last admission and revenue. month her last day in that role would be Jan. 31. The 2018 Gallatin County Fair will be held Sankey took a new position becoming the July 18-22. director of development for the Kansas 4-H • Foundation, according to Virginia Crossland- The 2018 Franklin County Fair, Union, Macha, president of the Kansas State Fair Mo., will see some major changes this year, in- Board. cluding being held a month earlier than usual, In a letter to the fair board, Sankey said: “I with the fair scheduled for June 7-10, fair offi- would like to thank the State Fair Board for this cials announced last month. The reason for the great privilege to have served the people of change was because of the sled availability for Kansas. I wasn’t out looking for a job. I believe the truck and tractor pull. in the mission of the Kansas State Fair and truly “We would like to thank everyone for their appreciate the opportunity to be a part of this continued support (of) this community event,” a mission and its positive impact on so many oth- press release said. “Without our local commu- ers, and especially our young people. 4-H has nity support, this event could not go on each always been special to me.” year.” An interim will be named, while the board • searches for a new manager. Another building on the Illinois State Fair- In Sankey's two years managing the fair, the grounds, Springfield, needs emergency repairs 2016 event drew 359,808 people, the second to avoid the possibility that its badly deteriorat- best in at least 40 years and 322,278, in 2017, ed roof could collapse. the third lowest since 2001. The Capital Development Board (CDB), The 2018 fair will be held Sept. 7-16. which handles non-road construction projects • for the state, said the roofing system on Barn A recent audit of Wisconsin State Fair 13 "has failed, causing water damage to the Park, West Allis, found that the management structural roof joists and decking,” according to team that oversees the annual 11-day fair could documents the agency filed to justify the emer- do a better job of keeping records on the mon- Digital Edition gency purchase. ey it spends for services and other purchases. App “There is severe structural damage to the The non-partisan Legislative Audit Bureau now system with the potential for the roof to col- said that between 2012-2017, the facility's staff available! lapse, causing a threat to public safety and im- "lacked complete and accurate management pending further loss and damage,” the docu- information" needed to effectively oversee its ments said. “The Department of Agriculture contracting processes. It further noted that the has several events scheduled at the facility group had not consistently followed proper through 2018. Additional damage might force procurement procedures. the department to close the facility and lose a The report did commend the facility's man- revenue stream for the state of Illinois.” agement for being consistent with several best CDB noted it is important to keep the barn practices in the industry including routinely re- open because the adjacent Coliseum is already viewing whether adjustments are needed to closed because it is no longer safe for use by the admission price, measuring the effects of its the public as a result of its own structural dam- promotional efforts, developing a safety inspec- age. tion program for its rides, and reviewing histori- The state has hired Allied Design Con- cal sales information for those vendors not us- Keep our amusement park industry strong! sultants of Springfield for $100,000 to do the ing cash registers. Buy products and services from these suppliers. design work and oversee removal and replace- The 2018 fair dates are Aug. 2-12. February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 27 Minnesota State Fair purchases Ye Old Mill; improvements planned AT: Pam Sherborne [email protected] MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Officials at the Minne- sota State Fair released last month an $11.1 million capital improvement plan, which includes purchasing the 102-year-old Ye Old Mill, described as the country’s oldest operating tunnel of love. The John Keenan family opened the ride on the fairgrounds in 1915. The ride has a concrete trough that mea- sures 971 feet. A giant paddle wheel creats the water flow. Designed by Philadelphia To- boggan Co., the family made After 102 years of operation the difficult decision to let the by the John Keenan family, fair purchase it due to the in- Ye Old Mill at the Minnesota State Fair has new owners, creasing costs of maintaining Frederiksen 1/7x3 b/w 3/14/02 11:22 AM PageSubscribe 1 Today! the ride. According to Min- the fair. The historic and nesota Public Radio, the fair’s ultra-popular ride, built by (817) 460-7220 board approved the $80,000 PTC, will undergo $500,000 purchase as part of its 2018 of upgrades and improve- budget in mid-January. The ments as part of an $11.1 annual budget also includes million capital improvement “The #1 Leading Slide Manufacturer in America” FREDERIKSEN $500,000 for upgrades for Ye plan. AT FILE/DAN FEICHT “World’s Largest 5 Lane, One Trailer Slide - 108 Ft.” INDUSTRIES, INC. Old Mill. 5212 St. Paul St. Minnesota State Fair Gen- the north end of the fair, an area • Financing and Leasing Available • Trades Considered Tampa, Florida 33619 eral Manager Jerry Hammer that has seen steady changes (813) 628-4545 told the Twin Cities Business over the last few decades. • Order Slide Bags or “New Rain” Bags • 6 New Slides In Stock FAX (813) 621-3679 publication that the improve- While many of the im- • Have 20 Used Rides www.funslide.com ments to the grounds include provements are geared to- • 90 Ft. Fiberglass Slide updates, renovations, addi- ward bringing in larger and tions and maintenance. more tech savvy traveling ex- • 65 Ft. Fiberglass Slide Some of the more visual hibits, Hammer said the fair upgrades include constructing is being careful to preserve its a new building for the fair's roots. pet exhibit that uses a more The 2017 fair set a new open design and incorporat- attendance record drawing ing an outdoor courtyard area. 1,997,320. It has an indepen- Broader pedestrian walk- dent midway. ways and new landscaping Prices are not set to change also are in the works. this year. Prices are $14 for Less visible upgrades in- adults, $12 for children and clude the $1.5 million the fair seniors (65+) while children intends to spend on electrical under five get in for free. upgrades. The 2018 fair is set for The improvements Aug. 23-Sept. 3. planned so far are centered on

Fairgoers at the 2018 Minnesota State Fair, Minneapolis, Aug. 23-Sept. 3, will notice many updates, upgrades and additions this year as fair officials announced in January an $11.1 million improvement plan. The 2017 event, seen here, drew 1,997,320 setting a new attendance record. COURTESY MINNESOTA STATE FAIR 28 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018 Gibtown Showmen's Club rolls out museum fundraiser GIBSONTON, Fla. —The coin could fit through. International Independent Hopes are to raise enough Showmen's Carnival Museum funds to build a structure large Foundation announced last Showmen's Association (IISA), seum have grown significantly. Gypsy Rose Lee’s slinky black enough to house the outdoor month that it is rolling out a opened in 2012 with about 200 Among other items featured beaded costumes and the out- exhibits to further preserve capital campaign to fund an ex- donated exhibits including a are cars from early amusement fit worn by the "Viking Giant" them. The new structure also pansion that would enable the 1950 carousel and an early Fer- rides, wagons, historical docu- himself, Johann K. Petursson. will provide more space for museum to build a structure for ris Wheel, as well as a variety ments, and a number of display He stood nearly nine-feet tall more donations. the wagons, generators and old of other memorabilia telling the cases containing thousands of and weighed 425 pounds. Also Further information may trailer rides that are now locat- history of the American travel- photos, newspaper clippings on display are the boots he be found by going to www.gib- ed outside on the grounds. ing shows. and vintage redemption items. wore daily, which were the size townshowmensclub.com or The museum, an effort of Over the years, dona- Visitors have the chance of a small child, and one of the emailing showmenshistory@ the International Independent tions to the 52,000-sq.-ft. mu- to view burlesque performer rings he wore that a half dollar gmail.com. Del Mar Fairgrounds looks at establishing cannabis policy

DEL MAR, Calif. — With state guidance in hand, the Del Mar (Calif.) Fairgrounds, home to the San Diego Coun- ty Fair, hopes to have a cannabis policy in place as early as March or April, in time to have clarity when the fairgrounds books its peak-season, late-summer events, according to a report in the Del Mar Times. By having a clear-cut policy in place, the District Agricultural Association (DAA), which runs the fairgrounds, hopes to avoid dis- agreements such as occurred last year when the Goodlife Festival was proposed for the fairgrounds. It resulted in op- position from anti-marijiuna activists and city officials. The California Depart- ment of Food and Agricul- ture (CDFA) released a guidance to fairs last October. It called on each DAA to develop its own policies for cannabis events and on-site consumption. According to the news report, it was sug- gested that each DAA pub- licly deliberate whether or not to host cannabis events, weigh the potential for feder- al enforcement and consider its relationship with local law enforcement and California Highway Patrol. All cannabis events, re- gardless of whether they allow consumption, will be deemed a "hazardous activity" and thus require $2 million in insurance coverage. The news report stated: "But at its heart, the guidance advises DAAs to defer to local preference despite the fact that nearly every fairgrounds (Del Mar included) is owned by the state and is therefore not beholden to the laws of its surrounding jurisdictions." —Pam Sherborne February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 29 30 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018

BUSINESS, SAFETY & CLASSIFIED  MarketWatch — Page 32 / Obituaries — Pages 34-35 / SAFETY — Pages 37-40 / CLASSIFIEDS — Page 42 Deluxe Disneyland accommodations undergo refurbishment Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel gets contempo-accented redo

AT: Dean Lamanna California hotel while stay- [email protected] ing committed to its signature design,” said Dan Coleman, hotel ANAHEIM, Calif. — Just general manager. “We want our before the year-end holidays, the guests to enjoy the unique experi- Disneyland Resort unveiled an ence of staying in a Disney hotel extensive renovation of Disney’s that’s distinctly situated. The revi- Grand Californian Hotel & talized design helps convey this Spa, the AAA Four Diamond feeling and allows us to continue accommodations inside Disney exceeding guest expectations.” California Adventure and bor- Guests get their first glimpse dering the Downtown Disney of the changes in the six-story District. Great Hall lobby, which has been graced with new, stylish furnishings and design elements. To complement the existing Arts and Crafts motif, new contemporary designs can be found in the fur- From the soaring Great Hall niture pieces, upholstery, wood- lobby to the guest rooms work and carpeting. to The Veranda, its newly The refurbishment has Custom conversational chairs renamed concierge-level brought a new sleekness to positioned around the cavernous lounge, the hotel’s existing the 17-year-old property, with fireplace provide both design and Arts and Crafts style has 948 redesigned guest rooms, a function, while boldly upholstered been tastefully updated refreshed lobby, a made-over sofa and chair pairings offer wel- with contemporary concierge-level lounge and an coming comfort. True to the fun just design details and upgraded pool area. It elevates outside the hotel’s doors, leather- furnishings throughout. the premium guest experience by topped stools discreetly integrate COURTESY interlacing a contemporary accent Mickey Mouse patterning. DISNEYLAND RESORT with the building’s already- Guest rooms have undergone impressive (and richly cozy) Arts top-to-bottom design refinement and Crafts style. — from flooring and walls to fur- sitioning into bright-toned car- the aesthetic while continuing the park fireworks in this exclusive “Our renovation brings nishings and bathrooms. peting. Linens and pillows have Craftsman design theme. setting. an even more upscale experi- Upon entry, guests will notice been restyled in a white palette All rooms are powered with Outdoors, each of the hotel’s ence to this iconic Southern hardwood-look flooring tran- and upgraded bathrooms include the latest technological features three pools have been redesigned new fixtures. The decor features and premium amenities, includ- with a variety of natural stones all-new furniture and headboards ing 55-inch smart TVs, Keurig and brick not only to create a made of quarter-sawn oak, a hall- coffee makers and built-in USB warmer environment, but also to mark of Craftsman design, as well chargers. define the distinct pool settings. as California-inspired artwork. The hotel’s concierge-level The stonework, in keeping with A wall mural of a blossoming lounge has a new name — The Arts and Crafts tradition, was orange tree features the mischie- Veranda — and a new design that hand-laid by master stone masons. vous Chip n’ Dale playing in the draws inspiration from the archi- The hotel’s food and beverage branches. When guests open the tectural and furniture designs of options include the award-win- sleeper bed (available in select Charles Rennie Mackintosh, a ning Napa Rose, as well as charac- rooms), artwork of Bambi and visionary of the Arts and Crafts ter dining at Storytellers Cafe and other woodland creatures will bid movement in Glasgow, U.K. the Hearthstone Lounge. Guests them goodnight. New hardwood flooring, custom- staying at Disneyland Resort Countertops, including the designed rugs, finely crafted arti- hotels also enjoy Extra Magic desktops, incorporate polished sanal furniture and specially com- Hour, offering early entry to select General Manager Dan Coleman (center left), and his “cast” pieces of glass from wine bottles to missioned art add to the lounge’s Disneyland or Disney California celebrated the completion of renovations at Disney’s Grand create uniquely beautiful surfaces. sophisticated tone. Club-level Adventure attractions. Californian Hotel & Spa on Dec. 6. Above the coffee bar, textured guests may enjoy complimentary • disneyland.com COURTESY DISNEYLAND RESORT copper detailing adds depth to refreshments as well as views of

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

PHONE: (716) 839-4791 FAX: (716) 839-4506 EMAIL: [email protected] www.nap-inc.com SERVING THE AMUSEMENT INDUSTRY WE’VE KEPT YOUR RIDES IN MOTION SINCE 1982 February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 31 3D ‘Tomb of Christ’ museum presentation recreates holy site Falcon’s Creative Group realizes high-tech Nat Geo D.C. exhibit AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected]

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Thanks to a unique creative and ters lasting anywhere from six technical collaboration between months to a year to support its Orlando-based Falcon’s Creative current magazine articles and Group and National Geographic other things they have going (Nat Geo), the experience of a on. They were documenting recently restored holy site in the restoration of the Church of Jerusalem has been recreated the Holy Sepulchre, and their through a new exhibition in the team just saw it as a tremendous nation’s capital. opportunity to take their visit to “Tomb of Christ: The the next level. Church of the Holy Sepulchre We started brainstorming Experience” opened at the with them in latter 2016, and “Tomb of Christ: The Church National Geographic Museum we proposed leveraging some of the Holy Sepulchre in mid-November. The immer- high levels of technology to Experience” at the National sive presentation, scheduled to transport National Geographic Geographic Museum utilizes run through this fall, combines Museum visitors to this church in interactive, virtual reality, storytelling and archeological Jerusalem. To hear the passion in 3D and other technologies expertise with 3D and virtual the stories from Nat Geo’s archae- to place visitors within the technology to bring the sacred, ologists, explorers, researchers sacred, recently restored ancient location to life. and staff writers — with these Jerusalem historic site little details of elements within Nat Geo had an exclusive (shown at right). opportunity to document the the church that you’d never get COURTESY NATIONAL historic 2016 renovation of the from reading a magazine article GEOGRAPHIC/REBECCA HALE fourth-century tomb of Christ — was inspiring. (TOP PHOTOS), and its protective shrine (known How else did Nat Geo con- SIMON NORFOLK as the Edicule), located in the tribute? rotunda of the Church of the In documenting the resto- things, we start the conversation every 12 minutes, we wanted amount of respect is something Holy Sepulchre, by the National ration, they had already begun on which technologies are best each room to have a unique per- we take very seriously. It drives Technical University of Athens. scanning and recording the to do it. spective. The first room is kind our team to push the envelope A team traveled to the site to church in incredible detail using In the brainstorming ses- of an introduction; it has some of quality and really make sure create a top-to-bottom record LIDAR [light detection and rang- sions with Nat Geo, we decided set pieces and props that recre- we’re delivering. And it comes of it through high-resolution ing, via a pulsed laser] scans and we wanted the exhibit to put ate some of the little shopping down to good collaboration — scanning, photos and video. photogrammetry [using multiple guests inside the church. Very bazaar that’s right outside the our team working with their team As design and digital media photos of objects to measure and quickly we went to the heavy church in Jerusalem. In the next — to make sure that we’re honor- supplier, Falcon’s Creative recreate them in high-quality dig- media-based type experiences, scene, we use projection map- ing their standards of excellence. Group, which also collaborated ital form]. These are tools used leveraging 3D for the exhibit’s ping to try to recreate the feeling We are happy with this project. with Nat Geo on the innovative by scientists, researchers and main scene where we actually of the church’s courtyard before What does the exhibition virtual animal attraction National archaeologists. We were able to take guests through the church. you enter the 3D experience that represent in terms of Falcon’s Geographic: Ocean Odyssey in use those assets in creating the Was there an opportunity to takes you inside. Creative Group’s expanding ser- New York City, helped transform exhibit’s media content — shar- incorporate virtual reality (VR)? We actually utilize several vices? the extensive visualization data ing 3D digital models and visual There’s a lot of debate about projection techniques offering When the company started from the church into a multimedia files of the church back and forth VR, and we always caution our different perspectives and points a little more than 17 years ago, it projection experience. — so we did not have to go to the clients that VR is a very personal of view to change it up from one focused on attraction design — David Schaefer, vice actual Jerusalem site. and isolating experience. When scene to the next, which keeps which certainly played a part in president of Falcon’s Creative There was great synergy you put on a VR headset, you guests engaged. this experience. But we’ve had Group, served as the lead on between the documentary’s are, for the most part, alone in an Seems you’ve created a significant growth over the past his company’s contribution to research requirements and what environment. There’s pros and valuable experience for those several years in our digital media the project. A graduate of the we were trying to do with the cons to that, but we think some unable, or unwilling, to travel division, which produces media the University of Wisconsin exhibit on the entertainment and of the more successful attractions to the site. content. This project is a snapshot with a B.S. degree in mechanical educational side. Compared to are the ones you can enjoy with We’ve heard guests say, of that. It shows not only that engineering, he our more traditional theme park family. We lean more toward cre- “This is amazing. I’ll never be we were involved in experience has managed projects, where we create things ating a larger space where we sur- able to visit Jerusalem to see it, design, but the actual production and/or more out of thin air, we worked round guests with media. but this is the next best thing.” of media. contributed together with the Nat Geo team In this case, we have 3D While others have said, “I had We’re tapping more into VR heavily, to and utilized their 100-percent- media that stretches around the no idea experiencing this exhibit and augmented reality, a grow- attractions such accurate computer-generated perimeter of the room and con- would make me want to add the ing area of the industry, because as Inspiration media. tinues onto the floor. It is a group church to my bucket list.” It can we see ongoing opportunity for of Flight for the Schaefer What were some of the cre- experience. be either fulfilling or inspiring, those tools to enhance the guest 2010 Shanghai ative decisions you had to make, As a secondary opportunity, and that has really touched us. experience. We’ve been able to World Expo and TurtleTrek – 3D particularly with integrating 3D there also are VR stations. After How did you address crowd bring in team members with spe- 360 at SeaWorld Orlando, among and other technologies into the you’ve experienced the main control and throughput? cific knowledge in those areas, so many others, in his more than 10 exhibit? scene in 3D, you can then put on a Nat Geo already had some we have an even more diverse years with the company. One of our leading philoso- VR headset to explore the church good information, since their offering of the types of media Amusement Today spoke with phies at Falcon’s is that technol- in more detail — to choose your exhibit spaces have been oper- and projects we are confident in Schaefer about the special creative ogy should be used as a tool — it own path and spend a little more ating for a while now. They producing. nature of the Nat Geo exhibition. shouldn’t be the be-all, end-all of time looking at specific elements. had baseline numbers as far We’re staying current and How did the “Tomb of the experience. We approach all Aside from the 3D and VR as expected visitors and the relevant to the trends and evolu- Christ” museum project come of our projects from the storytell- aspects of the experience, what throughput we needed to target, tion of technology. And we’re about? ing experience standpoint first: are some other highlights? and we designed the exhibit to staying busy. The industry seems National Geographic self- What do we want to tell the guests? Since it’s a walking expe- that criteria. to be really strong right now, performs temporary exhibits What do we want them to experience rience, with guests pulsed in Working with an organiza- which is good for everyone. at their Washington headquar- and feel? After we identify those groups through multiple rooms tion with such a tremendous •falconscreativegroup.com 32 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018 MARKET WATCH BUSINESS WATCH

COMPANY SYMBOL MARKET PRICE HIGH LOW Amusement Expo addresses FEC safety threats 01/17/18 52-Week 52-Week LAS VEGAS, Nev. — In the world we live in today, there The Blackstone Group BX NYSE 34.96 36.31 28.45 is virtually no immunity from random acts of violence, no safe havens from security threats. Merlin Entertainments Group/ MERL LSE 361.50 537.50 343.40 In this age when phrases such as terror alerts, active Legoland shooters and lockdown have become all too common, what Cedar Fair, L.P. FUN NYSE 64.92 72.56 59.66 can business owners do to proactively protect their patrons, property and brand? Comcast Corp./ CMCSA NASDAQ 41.68 42.71 34.78 During this year’s Amusement Expo International, Of- NBCUniversal Media ficer Charles Huff of the Las Vegas Police Department The Walt Disney Company DIS NYSE 111.97 116.10 96.2 will share ways that family entertainment center (FEC) managers can assess risk at their facilities, implement steps to Dubai Parks & Resorts DXBE:UH DFM 0.65 1.25 0.61 minimize threats and develop response protocols in such situations. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security EPR Properties EPR NYSE 60.79 77.70 59.31 aims to enhance preparedness through a “whole community” approach by providing products, tools, and resources Fuji Kyoko Co., Ltd. 9010 TYO 3310.00 3400.00 1900.00 to help you prepare for, and respond to an active shooter incident. Haicahang Holdings Ltd. HK:2255 SEHK 1.80 2.07 1.55 Officer Huff, a member of the M.A.C.T.A.C. (Multi As- sault Counter Terrorism Action Capabilities) training section Leofoo Development Co. TW:2705 TSEC 8.20 8.99 7.80 has first-hand experience in managing crisis situations… “The title, ‘Run, Hide, Fight’ focuses on options in response MGM Resorts International MGM NYSE 36.54 36.66 25.15 to a threat: run if you can; hide if you cannot run; and fight Parques Reunidos Servicios ES:PQR MCE 13.78 17.45 11.69 if all else fails.” He will cover these and other ideas rec- Centrales S.A. ommended by law enforcement, the U.S. Department of SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. SEAS NYSE 14.24 20.13 10.42 Homeland Security and other related security agencies. This session is set for 12:45 p.m., Feb. 27, 2018, at the Six Flags Entertainment Co. SIX NYSE 67.30 69 51.25 Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino, adjacent to the Las Vegas Convention Center, site of the Feb. 28-March DreamEast Group Ltd. HK:0593 SEHK 12.66 17.4 11.86 1, Amusement Expo International trade show. The seminar is part of this year’s Expo Education Day, Tivoli A/S DK:TIV CSE 632.00 688.00 470.00 an immersive, full-day program on a range of timely, key topics covering the FEC, amusement, virtual reality, bulk Village Roadshow VRL ASX 4.00 4.68 3.22 vending and laser tag areas. STOCK PRICES ABOVE ARE GENERALLY QUOTED IN THE FOREIGN •amusementexpo.org CURRENCY IN WHICH THE COMPANY IS LOCATED Worldwide Markets: ASX, Australian Securities Exchange; CSE, Copenhagen Stock Exchange; LSE, London Stock Exchange; NYSE, Polyfab Australia announces acquisition New York Stock Exchange; NASDAQ, National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations; SEHK, Hong Kong Stock Manhattan Beach, Calif. — Chris Nolan of Nolan UDA Pty, Exchange; SZSE, Shenzhen Stock Exchange; TSEC, Taiwan Stock Excange, Corp.; TYO/TSE, Tokyo Stock Exchange —SOURCES: Bloomberg.com; Wall Street Journal Ltd. and Barry Jamieson of Polyfab Australia Pty, Ltd. have announced the acquisition of Polyfab Australia by the Nolan DIESEL PRICES Group. Jamieson is one of the originators of developing heavy Region As of Change from duty knitted HDPE shadecloth for the protection of people (U.S.) 01/15/18 1 year ago from the damaging rays of the sun more than 25 years ago, and East Coast $3.063 +$0.427 had established Polyfab Australia, Polyfab Middle East and Midwest $2.981 +$0.440 Polyfab USA (Polyfab Middle East and Polyfab USA were spun Gulf Coast $2.825 +$0.396 off a few years ago as separate companies). Jamieson will con- Mountain $2.984 +$0.446 tinue to play an active role in management of Polyfab Australia. West Coast $3.098 +$0.343 •nolanuda.com California $3.641 +$0.704 CURRENCY CORRECTIONS: •In our January issue, misidentified a castle nut fastener On 01/18/18 $1 USD = AT as being from Heico Fasteners, when in fact it was not. 0.8171 EURO AT regrets the error. 0.7239 GBP (British Pound) •In our December issue, Thomas Mack’s brother Michael 110.80 JPY (Japanese Yen) was accidentally listed for the annual recipes. While the recipe 0.9621 CHF (Swiss Franc) stayed “in the family,” sincerely apologizes to Thomas for 1.2536 AUD (Australian Dollar) AT the error. 1.2435 CAD (Canadian Dollar)

and February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 33 California's Great America dramatically upgrades 2018 food offering SANTA CLARA, CA – Cali- will don the walls, and the indoor apple. Kid favorites like chicken ing are endless. fornia’s Great America is under- furnishings will add to the Sierra tenders, mac and cheese and pizza The iconic Great America res- going a food revolution heading atmosphere. The serving lines will will still be available. taurant will be modernized with into the 2018 season with four be doubled for faster service, and Another sweet food addition more ordering kiosks for faster new eateries — a full-service an extended patio will offer more for 2018 is Orleans Candy Kitch- service, a giant rotisserie and Starbucks, French Quarter Fun- space for families to gather, dine en, a classic confectionery that smoker visible to guests, an ex- nel Cake & Churro, Sierra Creek and relax. includes a station where guests panded outdoor patio and interior Lodge rustic family restaurant New food selections will in- will order specialty caramel ap- design renovations. and Orleans Candy Kitchen. For clude a Panini bar featuring fresh ples, choose their personalized special events, a new 500-person vegetables, lean meats and savory toppings and have the delectable The Joe Cool Café at covered outdoor space adjacent sauces. A new Coca-Cola Barrili- favorites made right before their California's Great America is to Great America Pavilion will tos station will feature agua fres- eyes. From classic caramel and being reimagined into Sierra provide amenities for private ca (juice and water blends) such house made pralines to an assort- Creek Lodge. events, and the iconic Consulate as pear cucumber, mango lime, ment of crushed candies and nuts, COURTESY CALIFORNIA'S gathering facility inside the park strawberry hibiscus and pine- the possibilities for custom-tailor- GREAT AMERICA has been updated to offer a more intimate and modernized setting for small groups and meetings. In addition, its popular Maggie Brown’s Smokehouse & Fried Chicken will receive an exterior and interior makeover for 2018. “California’s Great America is dedicated to delivering superb food and beverage offerings in in- viting and immersive settings that will match the world-class rides and entertainment guests are ex- pecting,” said Great America’s Vice President and General Man- ager Raul Rehnborg. “Guests today are more discriminating and savvy, and the park is responding by elevating food experiences and festivals, including Taste of Or- leans and Red, White & Brews. We realize the importance of food to the overall guest experience, and these additions are only a part of what is planned in the coming years.” The full-service Starbucks will be situated in the park’s Home- town Square area, just past Cele- bration Swings. All of Starbucks favorite beverages, including classic coffees, Frappuccinos and Macchi- atos, exotic teas, seasonal beverages and more will be available. The food menu includes fresh sand- wiches, fruit and protein snacks, and bakery treats like scones, ba- gels, cakes and cookies. Starbucks will be situated where Candy Café was previously located. A new home is being constructed for French Quarter Funnel Cake & Churro Factory. The ever- popular Great America funnel cakes will be taken to another level this year, with classic strawberry and powdered sugar funnel cakes here to stay and joined by new great flavors such as: blueberry, caramel, apple, cookies and cream, tropical coconut and pineapple. Guests can enjoy their custom creations in Orleans Place’s new outside patio. Dining in the Planet Snoopy kids’ area will take on a completely new flavor and feel, as Joe Cool Café is reimagined into Sierra Creek Lodge. The family dining experience will introduce a mountain lodge feel from the exterior woodwork to the interior décor. Murals featuring wild animals 34 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018 Jerry Pendleton, founder of SkyTrans Manufacturing, dies at 79

CONTOOCOOK, N.H. OBITUARY vide an economic solution for —Jerry Pendleton, founder smaller parks and zoos. and president business, shifting his focus to SkyTrans has since in- of SkyTrans the design, manufacture and stalled rides in more than 10 Manufactur- installation of chairlifts for locations across the U.S. It ad- ing, LLC, the local ski industry. Over ditionally supplies and fash- passed away the next two decades, Pend- ions replacement parts and peacefully in leton worked his way up in non-destructive testing de- his sleep on the company, which by the vices for a variety of rides, in- Dec. 28. He Pendleton early 1970s had begun sell- cluding those manufactured was 79. ing its aerial tramways to the by O.D. Hopkins Associates A graduate of the Uni- amusement industry. and others from manufactur- versity of New Hampshire, Of his working relation- ers no longer in business. Pendleton started his ca- ship with Hopkins, who died In recent years, Pend- reer with road, bridge and in 2010, Pendleton recalled to leton gradually had been all-around contractor O.D. Amusement Today: “We rarely removing himself from the Hopkins in 1960, eventually disagreed on things, and I day to day activities of both becoming president of O.D. knew that it never paid to ar- SkyTrans and SkyFair, thus Hopkins Associates, Inc., gue with him because 99 per- preparing his sons and col- in 1988. Under his leader- cent of the time he was right. leagues for the succession of ship, the company expanded He told me once that my job the companies’ leadership. beyond the aerial tramway was to be the front man, as At the time of his passing, he business into roller coasters he was more than content was en route to the warmer and water rides — becoming to design things — and that climes of South Florida. the world’s largest manufac- was how we functioned for “He did not make it to turer by volume of rides in- many years.” his final destination, but he cluding log flumes, shoot the Hopkins concurrently died the busy travelin’ man chutes and raft rides. operated tramways at major Jerry Pendleton seen in front of the first looping coaster pro- he was,” said his family in a In 2002, Pendleton state fairs around the country duced by O.D. Hopkins, the Texas Tornado at Wonderland statement. founded SkyTrans, where he under the name SkyFair Inc. Park in Amarillo, Texas. AT FILE Recalling how much continued to pursue his love Pendleton later purchased Pendleton enjoyed spend- of the amusement industry SkyFair from Hopkins, and We’d have drinks and eat to- projects for other parks and ing time in Daytona Beach, with his sons. together with close friend gether, and we’d talk about major theme park chains, one of his best friends in the Pendleton was born in and co-owner Don DiGi- our industry. We became re- including Splash Mountain city, Theresa Doan of Doan Westerly, R.I., on Nov. 13, rolamo and so-called “ad- ally good friends.” at Disneyland, Paul Bun- Management, told AT: “Jerry 1938. His family lived there opted son,” Tracy Shedd, he Pendleton was “easy go- yon Log Flume at Mall of loved Daytona Beach Bike for an additional two years grew the operation to what it ing, a good guy,” said Bor- America and the Log Ride Week, NASCAR races, New before leaving for the small is today. chardt. “Sometimes I’d tell at Warner Bros. Movieland Year’s Eve celebrations — town of Contoocook, N.H., There were milestones Jerry we couldn’t pay [for in Australia. The company’s and Bud Light. He led the where young Jerry spent along the way. a project] right at this min- projects spanned the globe, Bike Week contest team to much of his childhood work- In the mid-1970s, as vice ute, and he’d say, ‘Well, we with installations in Japan, reach new heights and raise ing on a large dairy farm president of O.D. Hopkins can wait until the end of the China, Thailand, Indonesia, thousands of dollars for the across the street from his fam- Associates, Pendleton con- season.’ And I’d say, ‘No, we Mexico, Canada, South Af- local Boys and Girls Club. ily’s residence. nected with Paul Roads, didn’t mean until the end of rica, the U.K. and more. He “Jerry was adept at man- In 1952, during his fresh- founder of Wonderland Park the season. We’ve just got to was active in the original aging all phases of special man year at Hopkinton High in Amarillo, Texas, and the cash a CD.’ And he’d say, ‘Go AREA and the beginning of events, be it writing con- School, he met his future park’s president, Paul Bor- ahead. Whenever you can, AIMS safety associations. tracts, consulting on insur- wife, Sylvia Allen, on a Fer- chardt, developing a very send it.’” In 2000, Hopkins Rides ance, coaxing temperamental ris wheel at the Hopkinton close working relationship With a laugh, Borchardt was merged with the French entertainers or engineering State Fair; they married six with them. Together they added: “That’s how we al- ride company Reverchon. structural improvements. years later while Pendleton planned — usually on a nap- ways did everything — there The Hopkins brand later be- Mostly, Jerry loved people, was attending the Univer- kin, with plenty of margaritas was no pressure with any- came affiliated withMartin & meeting and befriending all sity of New Hampshire. They nearby — and built a total of thing we did together. Jerry Vleminckx before being pur- — customers, employees, raised five sons born between eight rides at Wonderland be- really helped us create the chased by its current owner, entertainers, vendors and 1959 and 1974 on an eight- tween 1976 and 1996, includ- family-oriented attractions Whitewater West. In 2002, members of law enforcement acre property given to them ing a sky ride and the first we needed.” Jerry and his sons launched — with his cheerful happy by Sylvia’s mother. Hopkins-produced log flume Pendleton was known to SkyTrans Manufacturing — countenance.” Although Pendleton ride. It led to Hopkins becom- have described Wonderland focusing on water rides and Pendleton is predeceased earned a degree in dairy sci- ing the largest manufacturer “our Skunk-Works facility,” bringing aerial tramways to by his wife, Sylvia Allen ence, his meeting of O.D. of water rides worldwide. where all new Hopkins ride zoos. Pendleton; son, Frank Pend- Hopkins in 1960 would Of the comfortable work- designs were thoroughly Pendleton observed that leton (stillborn); father, Lewis change his trajectory. For ing relationship Wonderland tested and debugged. Among many older ski lifts were Pendleton; mother Helen Hopkins’ fledgling company, had with Pendleton and the the other rides produced for being replaced with newer Tulley Pendleton; and sister, the enthusiastic college grad Hopkins company during the park by Hopkins were the models, and that some in Judith Pendleton Bline. He is pumped out septic tanks, those years, Borchardt shared Texas Tornado steel looping the amusement, zoo and ski survived by his sons Jerry, Jr., drove trucks and operated with Amusement Today: “They roller coaster, the Sky Rider industries needed a people John, James, Daniel and Mat- backhoes. It was the start of were just common people, monorail, the Shoot-the- mover that would be high ca- thew, plus 11 grandchildren, what became an increasingly not high-pressure salesmen. Chute flume ride, the Pipeline pacity (and for zoos, not dis- one great grandchild, and 11 ambitious working relation- They manufactured it, pro- Plunge wet/dry waterslide ruptive to the animals). His nieces and nephews. ship and lifelong friendship. duced it and then we bought and the modest Rattlesnake company found a way to re- A remembrance of Pend- In 1962, Hopkins pur- it in a one-on-one deal — River Raft Ride. purpose and refurbish exist- leton will be held in N.H. chased designs and drawings with a handshake. Whatever During his O.D. Hop- ing equipment to ANSI B-77 later this spring for his fam- of the John A. Roebling’s we did, we wanted it to be kins years, Pendleton was Tramway code and ASTM ily and many friends from Sons Co. aerial tramway easy and not complicated. involved with hundreds of standards in order to pro- around the world. February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 35 OBITUARIES PEOPLE WATCH

Robert J. McCarthy, children from the Disabled Per- Al Sieffert, PSSA Topgolf Entertainment makes executive moves sons Action Organization. DALLAS, Texas — Sports entertainment center leader Topgolf the Carny Priest, He also was a fixture on local member dies at 74 Entertainment Group (TEG), based in Dallas, Texas, has announced two passes away at 99 radio for years with a program of EXPORT, Pa. — Al Sief- executive moves. Erik Anderson, formerly co-chairman and CEO, has reas- inspirational messages named fert, 74, passed away on Decem- sumed the role of executive chairman and will continue to lead Topgolf’s WATERTOWN, N.Y. — after the Gospel song, Turn Your ber 17, 2017. Al was very active vision, strategy and brand. Stepping into the role of CEO of TEG and Monsignor Robert J. McCarthy, Radio On. in the West- Topgolf USA, and joining the board of directors, is Dolf Berle, who will 99, known by many as "Father "Monsignor McCarthy was ern Chapter of co-lead strategy and have primary responsibility for leadership develop- Mac," passed away on Saturday, the oldest priest in the Dio- Pennsylvania ment. Berle’s career has included roles as president and COO at Dave & Jan. 6. He died at the Sisters of cese," said Father Arthur LaBaff, State Show- Buster’s, president of Lucky Strike Lanes, COO at House of Blues, and St. Joseph motherhouse in Water- Dean of Jefferson County for the man's Associa- executive vice president of hospitality and division head at ClubCorp. He town, N.Y., where he had lived Catholic Diocese of Ogdensburg tion (PSSA) and also serves on the national board of directors for Topgolf non-profit partner for the last several years. to a local news station. "He had served as state Make-A-Wish. A colorful and well-known served in a number of positions. president in Sieffert Intercard taps Dishian Catholic priest He was certainly well-known to 1982. In 1987 he in northern the people of Watertown and the was named PSSA Showman of ST. LOUIS, Mo. — St. Louis, MO-based Intercard, a leader in debit New York, he surrounding community. May he the Year. From 1990-1997 he was card technology and marketing system solutions for the amusement and was perhaps rest in peace." a very capable State Association entertainment industries, has tapped Michael Dishian as CFO. A corporate finance expert with a Big 4 accounting background, Dishian has more best known McCarthy's funeral was held secretary. than 30 years of experience as an accountant, controller and CFO for large as the "Carny Thursday, Jan. 18, at Holy Fam- His connection to the in- Priest," for ily Church in Watertown, where and growing companies, including Prism Medical, Spartech Packaging dustry started when he served Technologies and GatewayCDI, Inc. At Intercard, he will direct strategic his minister- McCarthy McCarthy was pastor emeritus. as a salesman and the as office ing to people Reverend Joseph Morgan, planning and budget development, as well as supervise purchasing and manager for Gold Medal Prod- manufacturing. who worked on carnivals. He Vicar General of the Diocese of ucts. He then worked as manag- frequently traveled to perform Ogdensburg, was the principal er for Powers Great American Cedar Fair names Fisher COO weddings, baptisms and funerals celebrant, with priests of the Dio- Midways. SANDUSKY, Ohio — Regional theme park com- for carnival workers. cese concelebrating. Al will be greatly missed by He attended the outdoor Father Stephen Murray, pany Cedar Fair has named amusement industry vet- his wife, Jean and sons Fred and eran Tim Fisher its COO. Reporting directly to newly amusement industry events pastor of Holy Family Church, Peter and five grandchildren. throughout the country. He was was the preacher. installed CEO Richard Zimmerman, he will oversee operations at all of the company’s parks and resort loca- certainly well-known among Intermountain Lift's tions from its Sandusky, Ohio, headquarters. Fisher joins those in that industry. Wayne Comstock Cedar Fair from Australia-based Village Roadshow, He was honored by the passes away at 77 Kurt Ray Crandall where he served as a top executive since 2009 — most Outdoor Amusement Business passes away at 51 recently as CEO of Village Roadshow Theme Parks Fisher Association (OABA) in 2004 by GREENVILLE, S. C. — International. Earlier in his career, he served as executive vice president of being named a Hall of Fame re- Wayne Comstock, 77, passed SPRINGVILLE, Utah — Paramount Parks and Viacom Recreation. cipient. He was appointed as the away Jan. 12, at his home in Kurt Ray Crandall, 51, passed National Champlain to the Car- Greenville. away on Jan. 3, 2018, from com- NEAAPA Hall to induct Frantzis nival People in the U.S. in the Born in Geneva, Ill., he was plications of severe infections. MIDDLEBURY, Conn. — George Frantzis II, an owner of Quassy 1970s. the eldest son of Herbert and Crandall, son of Ray and Amusement Park & Waterpark in Middlebury, Conn., Tom Powell, long-time edi- Luella Comstock. Valora Stout Crandall, worked will be inducted into the New England Association of tor of Amusement Business maga- After graduation from in his family's Amusement Parks and Attractions (NEAAPA) Hall of zine and industry ambassador Southern Illi- business, In- Fame at the organization’s annual meeting March 13 in and historian for OABA, wrote: nois Universi- termountain Mystic, Conn. A past president of NEAAPA (1998-99), “On a personal note, it has been ty, Carbondale, Lift Inc., of Frantzis represents the third generation of his family to one of the blessings of my life to he worked for Springville, be involved at the lakeside property, which his grandfa- have been introduced to Father ther purchased with two business partners in 1937. Of U.S. Gypsum Utah, helping Frantzis Mac, and been able to spend so the 40 persons currently in the NEAAPA Hall of Fame, until he relo- build steel roll- much time with him. He is dif- er coaster track George Frantzis II will become the third family member to be inducted; cated to Green- Crandall ferent, a good different. Chris- and structures his late father, George Frantzis, and uncle, John Frantzis, both served as ville to start Comstock tine, my four kids and I love him for amusement ride manufac- NEAAPA presidents prior to being installed. High Light dearly.” tures thoughout the world. Legoland Florida welcomes new VP of marketing He also wrote: "I remember Corporation with his wife He graduated from Spring- him telling me how, for so many Donna Comstock and their two ville High School in 1984 before WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — Legoland Florida Resort in Winter Haven years, he would sneak off from daughters. working at Intermountain Lift. welcomed Gillian Smith as vice president of marketing and sales last his diocese to visit the various He later joined Hartness His family said Crandall November. A marketing veteran with more than two decades of experience promoting major brands and organizations, including Burger King, Coca- showmen's clubs. He became International. Upon retirement, had an adventurous spirit for Cola and Teach for America, Smith previously served as chief marketing chaplain of several, including his family said he enjoyed fishing, hunting, boating, ski- officer of City Year, one of the country’s largest education and national the National Showmen in New working with the Greenville ing, riding his dirt bike and fly- York. After promising the bishop service nonprofits. The award-winning executive, once named a “Woman Woodworkers Guild. ing his paraplane. to Watch” by Advertising Age, replaces Rex Jackson, who was promoted to he'd stay closer to home, he once His obituary stated that He is survived by his par- general manager of Legoland Florida last summer. got on a plane that the bishop he will be missed by his two ents, his son Austin Crandall also boarded. He said he ducked daughters, Laura Doolittle and and his brother Bret (Butch) Six Flags leadership movement down and hid while the bishop Sarah Van Heule as well as his Crandall (Julie) Mapleton Utah. passed. After never speaking to GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — The New Year has seen some movement four grandchildren, Claire and He also is survived by many within the Six Flags chain of theme parks. Bonnie Sherman Weber is mov- the guy next to him, he asked the Leah Doolittle, and Halton and cousins, nieces, nephews and ing into a corporate position at the headquarters in Grand Prairie, Texas. fellow to grab his baggage while Chris Banerjee. long time friends. He was pre- She'll serve as Senior Vice President, In-Park Services. Filling her position he held a newspaper over his A drop-in memorial was to ceded in death by his sister as park president at Six Flags Magic Mountain will be Neal Thurman. face." Laura Crandall and his grand- be held in late January. Thurman returns to California having worked in Operations at the park There are many endearing parents. Anyone wishing to make a earlier in his career. This is his third park to serve as park president hav- stories of McCarthy. Services were conducted by ing previously served at Six Flags Great Adventure and Six Flags Fiesta donation in Comstock's name McCarthy also served as Wheeler Mortuary, Springville, Texas. John Winkler will now serve as the new park president for Six Flags chaplain of the Watertown Fire should send it to: Greenville Utah. Great Adventure. Winkler had served seven years at the park beginning in Department for decades. An an- Woodworkers Guild, P.O. Box The family encourages sup- 2001 as director of in-park revenue and later co-general manager. Winkler’s nual day was named for him at 825, Mauldin, S.C., 29662. porting organ donation pro- career with Six Flags spans more than three decades, starting at AstroWorld the Jefferson County Fair held in Condolences may be sent to grams. Condolences may be sent in 1983. Pete Carmichael has been named park president for Six Flags New Watertown, N.Y., and sponsored the family by visiting www. at www.wheelermortuary.com. England. With more than 20 years of industry experience, Carmichael pre- by Watertown city firefighters for thomasmcafee.com. viously served as park president at Six Flags St. Louis. 36 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018 No rides at 2018 Pennsylvania Farm Show – (well not quite)

AT: B. Derek Shaw Thomas Midway Entertainment, [email protected] Wilmington, N.C., for the fourth year in a row. In the Family Living HARRISBURG, Pa. — Each area of the Main Hall near the year in mid-January agriculture butter sculpture, a 1958 Allan surrounds Pennsylvania’s capi- Herschel three-abreast carousel tol city. Participants and visitors was provided by Mike Skelly, alike fill 24 acres with 11 halls Skelly’s Amusement, Inc. and three arenas in one million Williamstown, N.J. This was their square feet of livestock, livestock second appearance at the Farm exhibits, food, crafts, entertain- Show. Rides on both attractions ment and education highlight- were offered for a $2.00 donation ing the strength and diversity of – money that goes directly back to Amie Uliano-Parisi, mktg. coordinator and Robbie DelGrosso, food production manager for Pennsylvania’s agriculture and two scholarship programs. DelGrosso’s Amusement Park, (above left) were busy in their booth. The Communications food industry. Annually, 28 scholarships Dept. of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (above right): Bonnie McCann, Shannon are awarded by the Pennsylvania Powers, Emily Demsey and Will Nichols. The Pennsylvania Farm Show (below) is billed as the Farm Show Foundation and eight largest indoor agricultural exposition in the nation. AT/B. DEREK SHAW are awarded through PSSA. This year, $26,426 was raised and split Kramer. It should be noted that equally between both scholar- the proceeds raised each year ship programs, bringing the total that PSSA gives the Farm Show funds raised in 14 years to nearly Foundation are the single larg- $472,000. Traditionally the reve- est amount of scholarship monies nue is higher, however exception- the foundation scholarship fund ally low temperatures opening receives. weekend with wind chills below Over 80 showmen and their zero and an ice storm Monday families volunteered their time Billed as the largest indoor afternoon kept farm show atten- in one capacity or another. Allen agricultural exposition in the dance and ridership down. Bartlebaugh made daily trips to pated in the Pennsylvania Farm updated.” Asked if the Over the nation with nearly 5,200 animal Elsewhere in the complex man the tractor ride while Jerry Show to promote the park, camp- Top ride will finally go over the competitions, 14,000 competi- at the carousel in Main Hall, and Lisa Bartlebaugh booked ground and golf course. Staffers top, “I certainly hope so. (laughs) tive exhibits — involving 3,327 Donna Kramer, treasurer of PSSA a room close by to ensure that were handing out “Scratch & I haven’t heard anything official competitive exhibitors and 232 described why the organization everything was up and running Win” game cards good for dis- yet, but I certainly hope so. I think commercial exhibitors — this is is there. “For years we wanted daily until help arrived. Snyder counted tickets, discounted camp- it’s coming back for this year,” Pennsylvania’s equivalent to a to make sure our presence was Concessions filled in wherever or ing fees or free all day ride passes. said Walsh. state fair, minus the rides. Well, known and associated with the whenever volunteer staffing was Tim Walsh, Outside Also in Main Hall was the not quite. Pennsylvania Department of “light.” Majestic Midways stored Campground Coordinator DelGrosso Family of Companies, The 102nd edition of the Agriculture, because of course we the scenery and made certain the described his day: “Very busy which includes the amusement Pennsylvania Farm Show con- are subject to compliance and their big blue box of equipment was today. We are in a fantastic loca- park, pasta sauce manufactur- tinued a tradition that has been inspection of the rides.” Fourteen transported between the Farm tion with this carousel right ing operation and Marianna’s in place the past 14 years. The years ago a pitch was made. Show and Hershey while Donna here. We almost have a captive Fundraisers. Amie Uliano-Parisi, Pennsylvania Department of “Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we Kramer made certain there were audience when the kids stand Marketing Coordinator for the Agriculture Foundation in part- could turn the merry-go-round, plenty of printed materials for the around and wait. It’s been really, amusement park, felt traffic was nership with the Pennsylvania turn that ride, ’turning dollars for public to pick up. really good.” When asked about good on the day Amusement Today State Showmen’s Association scholars,’” said Kramer. For a dozen years (up until Knoebels new location, Walsh visited. “We are very happy to (PSSA), raise money for their A partnership was formed 2016) a 1946 Allen Herschel car- said, “This is the first year for that. be here every year. We have a respective scholarship programs whereby the Farm Show provides ousel was occupying that spot, I have to thank the Pennsylvania great crowd, everyone is always through the operation of two the space and electric for the provided by S & S Amusements, Farm Show for putting us here. I receptive to the sauce coupons, rides throughout the eight day eight-day event while the show- Scott Township, Pa. Kramer com- think they finally realized, ’Well our park coupons and also our event that draws upwards of an men provide the rides and volun- mented about that ride. “That let’s put two and two together.’ Marianna’s information we are estimated half million attendees. teers to operate them. “After our carousel is promised back to us It makes sense for us to be some- giving out. It’s really been great.” The ride equipment used at the expenses every dollar is shared again once it clears some ’red where near an amusement ride.” When asked what new is in farm show is on loan by a couple equally between the Pennsylvania tape’ with their inheritance and Walsh was asked what new store for the season, Uliano-Parisi of carnival operators with opera- Farm Show Foundation schol- estate planning.” things park goers can find at the said, “I do not know any trade tions staffed by PSSA members. arship program and our own Adjacent to the carousel, Elysburg, Pa. property. “We are secrets for 2018. We are still get- In the Expo Hall building, Showmen’s scholarship founda- Knoebels Amusement Resort doing a lot of infrastructure work, ting our brochure ready with our a Hampton farm tractor flat tion. So all the dollars are given had an exhibit booth. This is the plumbing and electrical, and event schedules.” ride was supplied by Powers & away in scholarships,” explained sixth time the park has partici- everything else that has to be Robbie DelGrosso, Food Production Manager for DelGrosso’s Amusement Park was not as tight-lipped as he shared a new food item that will be introduced this year. “The new food item is going to be rotisserie-style chicken, barbecue chicken. We used to do chicken in our open flame pit, now we bought two big rotisseries from a company out of Iowa (Holstein Manufacturing, Holstein, Iowa). Each rotisserie holds 600 chicken Lisa Bartlebaugh, past president of PSSA, and Donna Kramer, PSSA treasurer (left), staffed the carousel ticket table. Right, halves. That’s where we are going Allen Bartlebaugh, principal of Bartlebaugh Amusements, Madisonburg, Pa., handled the ticket sales for the Powers & to do all our chicken and our ribs. Thomas Midway Entertainment Hampton farm tractor ride. AT/B. DEREK SHAW It should be good.” February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 37 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION 2018 AIMS Safety Seminar sets new attendance record Seminar draws almost 450 attendees, 100 up from 2017 AT: Pam Sherborne [email protected]

GALVESTON, Texas — The 2018 AIMS International Safety Seminar set a new attendance record, raising the dations at the adjacent Hil- bar for future seminars and ton Galveston and San Luis challenging organizers. Resort. This year's seminar, which "We had been in Orlando was held Jan. 7-12, drew be- for 10 years," Oertley said. Above left, Bob Minnick of Orlando-based RFM consultants, formerly the technical director tween 440 and 450, according "Galveston was a draw for for Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, delivered the keynote address to kick off the 2018 AIMS to Holly Coston, AIMS semi- people on the west coast and Safety Seminar in Galveston, Texas. At right the AIMS Ambassadors were a big help to the nar manager, who added final from Texas. People loved the seminar staff. From left are: Ryan MacKenzie, Universal Orlando Resort; Lexus Padgett, Six figures hadn't been tallied. facilities. All the classes were Flags America; Kim Trujillo, Six Flags Fiesta Texas and Matt Ogden, Six Flags Fiesta Texas. "That is an increase of in a central location. We got AT/GARY SLADE over 100 more attendees from positive feedback from the 2017," Coston said. staff and volunteers." long way to making it a really ing experience for individu- anywhere from 12 to 15 ses- Both Coston and AIMS In addition, Oertley said great event," she said. als responsible for the care sions that ran concurrently Executive Director Karen Pleasure Pier was the site of Landry's Inc. owns the and safety of the amusement each hour for seven hours Oertley felt one of the big- hands-on training throughout Galveston properties where industry's guests. Attendees daily for the five days of the gest reasons for the increase the week as well as the loca- the AIMS seminars took place build tailored course cur- seminar. The sessions are pre- was the change of location. tion of the evening reception including Pleasure Pier. ricula that best suit their sented by volunteers within The seminar was held at on Wednesday. The annual AIMS Inter- needs and the needs of their the industry. the Galveston Convention "The Landry's contribu- national Safety Seminar is a employers. Center with hotel accommo- tion to the seminar went a comprehensive safety-train- Coston said there were 4See AIMS, page 39 38 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION Seen at the 2018 AIMS Safety Seminar

Above, having fun at the Pleasure Pier social event are from left: Holly Coston, AIMS International; Tracy Shedd, SkyTrans Mfg., LLC; C.W. Craven, the Washington State Fair Skyride and in front, Ed Zakar, Six Flags Great Adventure. Below, catching up during an AIMS break were from left: AIMS board member Jim Seay, Premier Rides; AIMS Executive Director Karen Oertley and founding AIMS member Dick Chance, Chance Rides.

Above, Orlando-based SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. brought an impressive crew of 27 to the AIMS seminar from its various park locations across the U.S. Below, more than 430 students were registered for the 2018 seminar and on hand for the opening remarks.

Above, in attendance from Premier Parks based in Oklahoma City were from left: Emma Hensley, Frontier City; Matthew White, White Water Bay, and Alexander Ramsey, Frontier City. Right, Steve Hickey, NACE, teach- es one of the many classes during the AIMS Safety Seminar. Below right, Michael Turner, CAVU Designwerks, and Franceen Gonzalez, WhiteWater, were all smiles following one the many outstanding meals provided to seminar attendees.

ALL PHOTOS AT/GARY SLADE February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION AIMS inspector certification, main- Mobaro Park; Auxel, SRL, scholarship recipients: Flags Fiesta Texas, and Lexus Continued from page 37 tenance certification, opera- and Millennium Elastomers. Mathew Frost, Amusement Padgett, MGM Resorts Inter- tions technician certification, There were five IAAPA Management International; national. Some of those sessions in- and aquatics operations tech- Alan Ramsay Scholarship Max Wachtel, Thomas Car- AIMS gives a special cluded: Midway Games Safe- nician. There are a number recipients: Orlando Zelayan- nival - OABA June Hardin thanks to volunteers who ty; Carnival Employee Train- of levels offered under each dia, with Carnival Memorial AIMS Scholar- handled all the audio visual ing; Selling Safety to Your program. Cruise Lines; Emma Hens- ship; Alejandra Orozsco, Ray needs throughout the week: Team; Social Media and the There were also 11 ta- ley, Frontier City; Heath Cammack Shows, and Ron Ed Zakar, C.W. Craven, Al Amusement Industry; FEC ble top exhibitors this year: Rogers, Riverfront Park, City Haen, Ray Cammack Shows. Scanlan, Nick Buffa, Tony Safety - The Unique Chal- Zebec; CPI Amusement; of Spokane, Wash.; Chad AIMS Ambassadors this Claassen, and Rick Achard. lenges of Family Entertain- Ralph Alberts Co. Inc.; S&S; Rankin, S e a W o r l d year were: Kim Trujillo, Six The 2019 AIMS Inter- ment Centers; Service Ani- Tapeswitch; LJM & Associ- San Diego and Rene Pena, Flags Fiesta Texas; Ryan national Safety Seminar is mals; Catch the Greenwave; ates; Amusement Today; Al- Hurricane Alley Waterpark. Mackenzie, Universal Orlan- set for Jan. 13-18, again, in Math and the Amusement lied Specialty Insurance; There were four OABA do Resort; Matt Ogden, Six Galveston. Ride; Commissioning Your New Ride: Hot Topics and Industry Trends in Aquatics, and Pumps and Plumbing Maintenance. Others included Man- aging Safe Behaviors Effec- tively; Working with Inspec- tors; Incident Investigation; Evacuations; Electric Motor Maintenance; Shop and Tool Safety; Inspection Beyond the Steel; Meet the Press; Steel Coasters and Train Inspec- tion; Wire Rope Inspection and Care, and Restraints. Certification testing is offered in these four areas: ride AIMS 2018 Safety Seminar Sponsors Platinum: Mobaro Park Gold: Amusement Today; Auxel Automation and Safety; Chance Rides; Coulter Associates LLC; IAAPA; Kumbak The Amusement Engineers; LJM & Associates, Inc.; Ride Entertainment and STS/NDT Silver: Allied Speciality Insurance; BARR; Millennium; Mondial World of Rides; Northwest Coasters; OABA; Premier Rides; Proslide Technology, Inc.; Ray Cammick Shows; Rides 4U; Rockwell Automation; S&S World-wide; Uremet Corporation; Vekoma Rides Manfacturing; Walt Disney Imagineering; WhiteWater and Zamperla Bronze: Ralph Alberts; ASTM Intl.; Baynum Painting; CPI Amusement; Doppelmeyer; Haas & Wilkerson; Leisure Labs LLC; RideWerks; Tapeswitch and Vondriska Leisure Consultants, Inc. Friends of AIMS: John Hinde; Landry's; Pleasure Pier; Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Zebec 40 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION ASTM F24 issues updates on SAFETY CALENDAR 2018 IISF Trade Show inflatable amusements standard February 6-9, 2018 W. CONSHOHOCKEN, ments used primarily by chil- NEW: Only 4 show days! Riverview, Fla. • (813)677-9377 Pa. — An update to a standard dren in indoor entertainment www.gibtownshowmensclub.com for inflatable amusements, centers and at outdoor events • commonly known as bounce and parties. According to mem- IRT/iROC Safety Training School houses, aims to enhance their bers, the standard is helpful for Feb. 6-9, 2018 safety. Members of ASTM In- manufacturers, companies that Knott's Berry Farm Hotel ternational revised the stan- own and operate inflatables, Buena Park, Calif. • (615) 545-8109 dard to support better anchor- and inspection bodies such as ing systems, to mitigate risks regulators and third-party in- Hands on ride training at Knott's Berry Farm [email protected] of falling near the entrance-exit spectors. • area, and to emphasize the im- The subcommittee on ad- Northwestern Showman's Club portance of trained operators. help keep inflatables grounded. venture attractions (F24.61) 2018 Safety Seminar The revision to the “stan- •Use of impact attenuation welcomes anyone interested to February 17-22, 2018 dard practice for design, manu- materials at the entrance and help continually develop this 3407 S.E. 108th Ave. facture, operation, and mainte- exit area to help mitigate risks and other amusement stan- Portland, Ore. 97266 nance of inflatable amusement associated with falls. dards. Become a member at (503) 761-0989 or (772) 485-5112 devices” (soon to be published •An expanded section www.astm.org/JOIN. as F2374-17) will improve on operations to emphasize The next meeting of the Class training at Oaks Amusement Park safety requirements for newly having trained attendants committee on amusement rides and Funtastic Rides, Inc. Winter Quarters • manufactured inflatables and supervise while patrons are and devices (F24) is Feb. 14-17 NJAA 22nd Annual East Coast Gift & Variety Show for commercial operators. using them. in New Orleans, La. with NAARSO safety training & certification Revisions to the standard Originally approved in To purchase standards, February 20-22, 2018 address key risk areas for in- 2004, the inflatables standard contact ASTM International Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino flatables, including: covers bounce houses, inflat- customer relations by calling Atlantic City, N.J. • (732) 240-0000 •New requirements for de- able slides, inflatable obstacle (877) 909-ASTM or by email at: Kimberle Rolle Samarelli • [email protected] signs of anchoring systems that courses, and similar amuse- [email protected]. www.njamusements.com • Pa. Amusement Ride Safety Seminar February 27 - March 1, 2018 Red Lion Hotel, Harrisburg, Pa. (717) 215-4316, Joe Filoramo or (561) 758-3266, Phil Slaggert www.paridesafety.com • AAMA/AMOA Amusement Expo 2018 Feb. 28-March 1, 2018 Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall Las Vegas, Nev. • (708) 226-1300 www.amusementexpo.org • NAARSO Outreach Safety School at 105th NEAAPA Annual Meeting March 12-14, 2018 Hilton Mystic Hotel, Mystic, Conn. (877) 999-8740 www.neaapa.com • Roller Skating Association International Convention & Trade Show Las Vegas, Nev. May 13-17, 2018 • (317) 347-2626 x103 Email: [email protected] • MARK THE DATES Asian Attractions Expo, June 6-8, Hong Kong Euro Attractions Expo, Sept. 25-27, Amsterdam World Waterpark Assn. trade show, Oct. 23-26, Las Vegas IAAPA Attractions Expo, Nov. 13-16, Orlando • Have a Calender listing you want to share? Email it to: [email protected]

ThisM spaceuseu is provided courtesym of Amusement P Todayrogress, a corporate partner of the National R Roller Coasterep Museumort & Archives. Lakeside Park donates book FROM THE ARCHIVES COLLECTION to museum during IAAPA Expo

During the IAAPA Attractions Expo 2017, held in November in Orlando, Fla., Brenda Fishman (left) and Rhoda Krasner with Lakeside Amusement Park, Denver, Colo., donated this LaMarcus Thompson’s Scenic Railroad cave-like station book, Denver's Lakeside Amusement Park, to the National dominated the area adjacent to the entrance to the Ven- Roller Coaster Museum & Archives. The book details the rich ice Pier in Venice, Calif., on Ocean Front Walk. Opened in history of Lakeside, opened in 1908 as part of the City Beau- 1919: 1910, it operated with a brakeman and had two cable lifts. tiful movement, and how it has managed to stay in business While most of the familiar artificial mountain scenery was placed near the promenade, for more than a century. A full book review of David For- the western portion of the large ride was built on piles, as seen in the image, directly sythe's Denver's Lakeside Amusement Park can be found in over the Pacific Ocean. Traveling over the water was considered thrilling for its time and the November Pre-IAAPA 2017 issue of Amusement Today. the scenery was later removed. (It did not hold up well to salt air). This photograph was COURTESY NRCMA taken in February 1919, the final year of operation. —Richard W. Munch 42 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018 BRIEFS Angus Jenkins departs Chance Rides WICHITA, Kan. — After 12 years of dedicated service to CLASSIFIEDS Chance Rides, Inc., Angus Jenkins has been presented with an opportunity which he will pursue. “Angus has been a key part in our success in amusement AUCTION FOR SALE park and observation wheel sales and had worked closely as a team with my son Michael,” said company president Dick Moser Flipping Action Arm P/M . . . $99,000 Chance. “I am happy to see him stay in the industry with Chance Century Wheel P/M . . . $199,000 Six Flags a key customer like and look forward to working Chance Pharoahs Fury T/M . . . $550,000 with him in the future.” Angus will work with Jay Aguilar, vice president of sales Wisdom Tornado T/M ...... $139,000 and marketing at Chance Rides, to transition outstanding Tivoli Orbiter T/M ...... $399,000 projects and introduce him to key people in the industry. Go- 2010 ARM Vertigo T/M ...... 400,000 ing forward Chance Rides, Inc. will be looking to add to its ARM Happy Viking T/M ...... $89,000 sales team to continue the company’s success as an industry leading amusement ride manufacturer. Kolinski Slide T/M ...... $39,000 “My 12 years with Chance Rides has resulted in some Zamperla Tea Cup T/M ...... $49,000 of the best personal and family relationships anyone in this 2016 KMG Freak Out T/M . . $725,000 industry could hope for. For that I will always be grateful. Zamperla Power Surge T/M . . . $299,000 The depth of skill, innovation and hard work at Chance Rides will be a lasting impact on me personally. This was the hard- Zamperla Shocker T/M . . . . .$250,000 . est decision of my life to leave, but I can see that the Chance Expo Wheel T/M ...... $299,000 company, and ride product, will continue to be a frontrunner in the industry. I look forward to working with all my Chance friends in the near future,” said Angus Jenkins. Call Len or John Chance would like to thank Angus for his loyalty and ded- (908) 526-8009 FAX: (908) 526-4535 ication to Chance Rides over the years and wish him contin- EMPLOYMENT ued success in his upcoming career transition with Six Flags. www.Rides4U.com

A plea for help for the H-2B program FOR SALE The following was posted on the Outdoor Amusement Business Association's website on January 11: CAROUSEL Please continue to Help #SaveH-2B Congress is back in session this week. It is critical that HORSES your elected officials continue to hear from you about the Herschell Spillman and need for immediate H-2B cap relief. As you know, the first 33,000-visa cap was reached on December 15 and the second Armitage Herschell. All half cap will be reached soon. Unless Congress acts promptly, restored hair, tails, and many seasonal employers could be shut out of the H-2B pro- glass eyes. Beautiful gram this year. Please ask your Senators and Representative $4,500 or $5,000 for to include H-2B cap relief in any upcoming appropriations both. Pictures available bill and to speak personally to their party leaders about the upon request. need for cap relief. Specifically, we hope you will take the following actions: •Please call your Representative and Senators at their Washington, D.C. offices and stress the need for immediate Bob Kissel cap relief. You can reach your elected officials through the 8253 E. Lee Hill Rd.

Capitol switchboard at (202) 225-3121. Once connected to the Madison, IN 47250 office ask to speak to the staff person who handles H-2B- is (812) 839-3255 sues. •Please call or visit in person with your Senators and Representatives at their district offices. You can find the local contact information for your Senators and Represen- tative on their websites or through www.house.gov and www.senate.gov. CLASSIFIED ADS •Tweet at your Representative and Senators about the FOR SALE need for immediate cap relief using #SaveH2B. You can find $20 minimum, their twitter address at: https://twitter.com/verified/lists/ up to 30 words us-congress/members. ($1 per additional Please also call and email the USCIS ombudsman’s office word) and encourage the Department of Homeland Security to support H-2B cap relief. The email address is cisombudsman@ DISPLAY AD: $50 per hq.dhs.gov and the phone number is: (855) 882-8100. We know it is an extremely frustrating and time consum- column inch ing to repeatedly make phone calls and visit your elected of- (a 1-point rule will ficials, but we will not succeed in getting cap relief signed appear around ad) into law unless everyone continues to take the time to weigh in with their lawmakers. Due the 10th of the Sincerely, month prior to Your H-2B Workforce Coalition Co-Chairs Check out the latest premium new and used rides at: issue date Laurie Flanagan, representing AmericanHort and the National Association of Landscape Professionals facebook.com/internationalridesmanagement Call Sammy Gregg Hartley, representing the Outdoor Amusement or call (609) 425-1220 to receive a current list. (817) 460-7220 Business Association February 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 43 44 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2018