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’S 40th ANNIVERSARY – PAGES 19-22

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Vol. 16 • Issue 3 JUNE 2012 Two traditional parks turn to for thrill factor AirRace takes flight at ’s Massive swings into historic Park FARMINGTON, Utah — Inspired by what they saw at Co- STORY: Scott Rutherford ney Island’s last year, Lagoon officials called upon [email protected] Zamperla to create for them a version of the Italian ride manu- WEST MIFFLIN, Pa. — facturer’s spectacular AirRace attraction. Guests visiting Kennywood Just as with the proptype AirRace at Luna Park, Lagoon’s Park this season will find new ride replicates the thrill and sensations of an acrobatic air- something decidedly sinister plane flight with maneuvers such as banks, loops and dives. lurking in the back corner of Accommodating up to 24 riders in six four-seater airplane- Lost Kennywood. The park’s shaped gondolas, AirRace combines a six-rpm rotation with a newest addition to its impres- motor driven sweep undulation that provides various multi- sive ride arsenal is Black vectored sensations. The gondolas reach a maximum height of Widow, a Zamperla Giant 26 feet above the ground while ‘pilots’ feel the acceleration of Discovery 40 swinging pen- almost four Gs, both right-side-up and inverted. The over-the- dulum ride. shoulder restraint incorporated into the seats holds riders during Overlooking the the simulated flight, and with a minimum height requirement of final swoop turn of the just 48 inches, AirRace is one of Lagoon’s most accessible family Phantom’s Revenge and the thrill rides. When operating at peak capacity, the new ride can far below, accommodate approximately 480 guests per hour. Black Widow is constructed 4See LAGOON, page 4 on the former site of Pittfall, the 251-foot-tall second-gen- eration that operated at Kennywood from 1997 through 2011.

Farewell Pittfall When asked about the decision to remove Pittfall, Kennywood officials agree that it was time for the ride to go. “Though it had its share of fans, the Pittfall just wasn’t that popular anymore. And the capacity was nothing com- Black Widow, a Zamperla Giant Discovery 40 swinging pen- pared to most of our rides.” dulum ride, has invaded Kennywood Park this season. Lo- said Kennywood General cated in the Lost Kennywood section of the park on the site Manager Jerome Gibas. “It of the former Pittfall free fall, Black Widow accommodates was also due for a major over- 40 guests per cycle. AT/SCOTT RUTHERFORD haul and we all knew its days were limited.” director of maintenance and is going to be a big hit with “That’s right. Ridership construction. “We looked at it our guests. We offer a lot of Lagoon’s newest thrill ride is this AirRace from Zamperla. was certainly down on Pittfall from several perspectives and different experiences here at Seating 24 riders per cycle, the ride swings ‘pilots’ up and and then there was the ongoing it just made good business Kennywood and this one fits over to reach 26 feet above ground while accelerating to maintenance issues,” added sense to remove Pittfall and in perfectly.” almost four Gs, both right side up and inverted. Rob Henninger, Kennywood’s replace it with something like COURTESY LAGOON assistant general manager and Black Widow. I think this ride 4See KENNYWOOD, page 4 SUBSCRIBE TO JOIN US IN SEPTEMBER! Dated material. material. Dated

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US POSTAGE US PRSRT STD PRSRT GOLDENTICKETAWARDS.com 2 June 2012 NEWSTALK OPINIONS CARTOON LETTERS AT CONTACTS EDITORIAL: Gary Slade, [email protected] CARTOON: Bubba Flint Standard equipment? I know some are going to disagree with what I’m about to write, but after touring several new waterparks and slide towers this spring and all of last year, I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s time for all of the waterpark slide suppliers to make a stand. Slade Too many times I have seen a beautiful new slide tower without a top roof cover- ing to protect the guests and the lifeguard/slide opera- tor from the sun. When a roof structure is added, many times it looks out of place or just comes across as an afterthought. I know parks view the roof (or covering) as an item they can install cheaper than purchasing new from the supplier, but it’s time for the suppliers to start pushing for their platform covering design more. Also, while on the subject of waterparks, I’ve reached the conclusion that suppliers should offer their slide towers to include the tube/raft conveyor as part of the total package on any slide that requires tubes/ rafts with a capacity of three guests or more. Park guests EDITORIAL: Scott Rutherford, [email protected] seem to manage the single tubes and double donut tubes up the staircases fine, but anything more than that Showcasing history always seems to be an issue that clogs up the line and Anyone who knows me is well ers. Though viewing the collection can be somewhat slows down the overall capacity. Plus it takes away from aware of my penchant for history. heartbreaking when you realize just how much has the guest experience, as the soon-to-be rider is having Though my interests may encom- been lost, those of us who truly care about such things to work by carrying a tube/raft to just enjoy the slide? pass a broad range of subjects, can take comfort in the fact that at least some tangible none is more dear to me than my components of a favorite attraction have been saved. suppliers don’t allow parks to buy a ongoing research into and pres- While the NRCMA’s long term plan is to construct new coaster without a , it’s time waterpark ervation of amusement industry a permanent home to house the ever-growing collec- suppliers did the same. Yes, I know it’s a competitive heritage, particularly wooden roller tion, the immediate goal is to assemble and build dis- thing, an outlet for a park on a limited budget, but in the Rutherford coasters. plays for several temporary exhibits set to be opened So it should come as no sur- in 2012 and beyond. The exhibits will focus on local long run is it really worth it? prise how much I support and admire the efforts of parks and include both the story of the roller coaster Suppliers: please dig down a little deeper in your those behind the National Roller Coaster Museum as well as images of celebrated parks no longer in sales presentations and convince the waterparks that and Archives. Founded in 2001 by a group of industry existence. platform shade structure and the lift conveyor (to get professionals and historians, the NRCMA’s honorable The very first of these temporary endeavors – mission is to “discover, preserve, interpret and share The National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives tubes/rafts up to the dispatch point) are standard the historical heritage of the roller coaster for present Premiere Exhibition – is currently being assembled. equipment and included in the purchase price. and future generations.” Although many may have Over the past few months, a select group of histori- The guests will thank the park with repeat visits, and heard of the NRCMA, only those who have personally ans, collectors and artists have diligently worked to in turn the park will thank you, the supplier. investigated and examined the artifacts and memora- create this amazing and unique display, which will be bilia housed in the group’s massive Plainview, unveiled later this summer within an existing structure —Gary Slade storage facility can truly appreciate the scope and at in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. dedication behind this endeavor. And it should be mentioned that just as with the Gary Slade is the founder and publisher of Amusement Quietly and with too little recognition, the NRCMA itself, this “Premiere Exhibition” is possible Today. His love for amusement parks began at age six NRCMA has been steadily amassing items that range only because of dedicated volunteers who selflessly from historical photographs and postcards up to donate their time, energy and passion so that others when he first visited Amusement complete, full-size roller coaster trains and sections might enjoy and be inspired to begin their own quest Park and Over Texas. His long newspaper career of the track on which they once carried excited rid- for historical preservation. helped lead to the launch of AT in 1997.

AMUSEMENT TODAY STAFF Gary Slade, Founder Tim Baldwin Sammy Piccola Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Editorial Accounting / Circulation (817) 460-7220 [email protected] (817) 460-7220 [email protected] [email protected] Deliveries Member of: Pam Sherborne 2012 E. Randol Mill Rd, Suite 203 IAAPA, AIMS International, PAPA, Stacey Childress / Childress Media Editorial Sue Nichols Arlington, Texas 76011 NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, WWA, TTIA, Web & Graphic Design [email protected] Advertising NAARSO and IISF (817) 889-4441 (615) 662-0252 Subscription rates are: 1 year (14 issues) $75 in the USA; $100 elsewhere; 2 years (28 issues) $140/$180; [email protected] Scott Rutherford [email protected] 3 years (42 issues) $200/$250. Send check or money order (U.S. funds only, drawn on a U.S. bank) to Amusement Today, P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005-5427. Your cancelled check is your receipt. Editorial Please allow up to six weeks for your subscription request to be processed and the first issue mailed. John Robinson / W.H.R. Inc. [email protected] Bubba Flint Daily E-mail Newsletter Cartoonist Amusement Today is an independent newspaper, published monthly by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. [email protected] Jeffrey L. Seifert [email protected] Box 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. Presort Standard Postage (Permit No. 2069) pre-paid at Fort Worth, Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper and its related Web sites are copyrighted and trademarked Editorial / Special Projects by Amusement Today 2012, with all rights reserved. [email protected] POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Amusement Today, P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas Contributors: Terri Adams, Dean Lamanna, Andrew Mellor, B. Derek Shaw, Richard Munch, Janice Witherow, WHR Inc. 76005-5427. June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3 THIS MONTH IN HISTORY MINUTE •1895: on Presented by Cleveland’s east side opened on June 22 as a beer garden along with gambling and freak shows. 2 DRILL In 1901 the park was purchased COMPILED: Janice Witherow by the Humphrey Family who ex- panded the beach and changed Brian Knoebel, Knoebels Amusement Resort the operation to a family-friendly Brian Knoebel knows park, eliminating the beer gar- no other job than working den, gambling and freak shows. at his family’s charming Euclid Beach remained in opera- , Knoeb- tion as an amusement park until www.RollerCoasterMuseum.org els Amusement Resort, in 1969. Its loss is still lamented by the rolling hills of Pennsyl- locals who have fond memories vania. He has worked in of the park. nearly every department at the park over the years •1913: Paradise Park, at Fort George, in was completely to get a true understand- destroyed by fire on June 9. The park was the largest open-air amuse- ing of what goes on and ment resort on Manhattan Island, and was visited by thousands the how to manage almost any next day, who wandered aimlessly through the wreckage of merry- situation. Brian is involved go-rounds, dance halls, and roller coasters. By the end of 1919, the in IAAPA and serves on few remaining roller coasters and rides operated outside the former the Amusement Parks and park were removed as the property was sold for real estate develop- Attractions Committee and Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the roller coast- ment. dedicates his time as a vol- er at Knoebels Amusement Resort in 2010 was l to r: Rick •1926: Burke’s Glen Amusement Park, in Wilkinsburg, Pa., opened unteer at his church in vari- Knoebel, Dick Knoebel and Brian Knoebel. ous capacities. Married to on June 15. Built on the south side of the William Penn Highway near AT/FILE his high school sweetheart, Elliott Road, the park featured an assortment of rides and attractions, Favorite place to catch up on reading Dawna, Brian and his wife have two daughters. including a fun house, a swimming pool and picnic grove. The local Somewhere in a beach chair. His strong work ethic, friendly manner and favorite, John A. Miller’s Speedhound roller coaster was a landmark pride in his family come across the moment on Rt. 22. The park would lose most of its rides, but limped along My first job was … until 1974. Today a car dealership is found on the former true road- you meet him. Sorting the different colored ride tickets in our side attraction. park office, age 2 or 3. (Still waiting on back Title pay!) •1932: Liberty Pier in West Haven, Conn., was virtually wiped out We don’t have titles at Knoebels, but Fireman on June 11, by the most destructive fire in the history of Savin Rock, would probably work. I’m It’s June! My favorite summertime activity is … the of Connecticut. Marathon dancers fled the flames supposed to extinguish the Golfing … when I can get away. and the total loss was estimated at $150,000 to the amusement park daily “fires” and pier. Lost in the fire were many concession stands and a local The last time I went swimming was … favorite, the 1925 John A. Miller designed Red Devil roller coaster. Number of years with Last week in my backyard pool that my wife Three firefighters were hurt in fighting the 10-hour fire on Long Island Knoebels spent a fortune on. Sound. In a way 39, but officially 19. I never miss this show on TV … •1978: The first roller coaster convention, Coaster Con I, was held Best thing about the industry Knoebel Seinfeld re-runs. June 9-11 at : The Old Country in Williamsburg, Vir- It’s overused, but true. The ginia, with just over 50 enthusiasts in attendance. That Sunday morn- people you meet along the way. All-time favorite sports team ing, on June 11 a new organization, American Coaster Enthusiasts,

Whoever Brett Favre un-retires for. was born out of an impromptu meeting of about 15 individuals who Favorite amusement ride attended the first business meeting. The Phoenix. Pick one: beer or wine? Neither. Occasionally I’ll drink a Martini. •1989: On June 23, Upper Clements Park in Nova Scotia opened its If I wasn’t working in the amusement indus- doors to the public. The park was funded by the government of Nova try, I would be … Scotia as part of a regional economic development scheme for south- The most interesting thing I have heard A pro golfer (dreaming). western Nova Scotia and is currently owned and operated by the non lately is … profit, community-based group The Upper Clements Parks Society. If God brought you to it, He will get you Biggest challenge facing our industry through it. The economy, ADA compliancy and motivat- •2001: After much delay, Bonfante Gardens Theme Park in Gilroy, ing the next generation. , opens to the public on June 15. A project of the Nob Hill My “catch phrase” is … Supermarket chain owners Michael and Claudia Bonfante, the park I don’t really have one, but let’s go with “In- The thing I like most about amusement/wa- evolved gradually from the Nob Hill Family Park in 1977 to become spect what you Expect.” ter park season is … a theme park in 2001. The park struggled financially for several years The challenge. and was eventually sold to the city of Gilroy. It is currently managed Twenty years ago, I was … by Cedar and operates as Family Theme Park. Attending college majoring in Food and Hos- The band I would most like to be in is … pitality Management. Milli Vanilli. Remember them (famous for lip synching)? You REALLY don’t want to hear me TM Twenty years from now, I hope to be … sing! P.O. Box 5427 Able to spend more time with friends and Arlington, Texas 76005-5427 5-time Award Winner family. I typically celebrate my birthday by … (817) 460-7220 Fax (817) 265-NEWS (6397) Working, it’s on Memorial Day weekend. And, When I say politics, you say … eating lots of cake of course. Don’t get me started. Find us on Facebook facebook.com/amusementtoday On my screensaver right now is … My ideal vacation is … Scrolling pictures of my family. No walkie-talkie and no cell phone. Follow us on Twitter twitter.com/amusementtoday Favorite holiday The most I have ever spent on a meal is … Christmas, but I wish it were less commercial- $100 during IAAPA Attractions Expo. ized. Subscribe to our YouTube channel Get a free QR Code scanner for your phone youtube.com/amusementtoday by visting www.mobiletag.com. 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012 LAGOON 2012 ride offering. Since instal- lation at Lagoon this spring, KENNYWOOD Continued from page 1 Continued from page 1 we’ve had an overwhelmingly AT spoke with Lagoon positive response from rid- Zamperla’s product shines Marketing Department ers and those watching on the With several other Spokesman Adam Leishman ground. As you can see, this is Zamperla attractions operat- about why this particular mod- a spectacular looking ride and ing at Kennywood, it was an el and manufacturer was cho- we are very excited to add Air- easy choice for park officials sen and how the public is re- Race to our selection of family when they were looking for sponding to the new ride. “We thrill rides here at Lagoon.” their next big ride. “Along with saw AirRace at Coney Island AirRace is located next their prices being competitive and felt that it was not only a door to one of Lagoon’s two and their product being on great looking ride but had the classic Schwarzkopf coasters, the cutting edge, they pro- potential to appeal to a large II. When the new ride vide excellent service during demographic with its thrilling takes flight, it always draws a and after the purchase,” said action for riders and unique crowd. “On our new AirRace, Gibas. “Working with Ramon spectator appeal,” explained every rider gets a bird’s eye [Rosario] and Valerio [Ferrari] Leishman. “We were able to view,” added Leishman. “And over the years has always been meet with Zamperla while we it’s also a great show for those a good experience for us here. were at Luna Park, and shortly watching down below.” Our parent company, Palace after decided that this would —Scott Rutherford Entertainment, has excellent be a great partnership for our relations with Zamperla, so it was smooth and pleasant for everyone involved.”

Up goes the Rising nine stories above the , Black Widow’s massive gondola is support- ed by four steel legs painted Black Widow’s rotating gray with black accents to 40-person gondola reaches mimic those of a giant arach- a swinging of 68 nid. mph and climbs 120 de- The Black Widow experi- grees from the center and ence begins with 40 guests 146 feet above the ground. being secured with over-the- Right, a bird’s eye view of shoulder restraints in out- Black Widow from atop the ward-facing suspended seats Phantom’s Revenge. AT/SCOTT RUTHERFORD with their legs dangling. With no cumbersome seat belts to To the astonishment of various other areas around the deal with, operators make a onlookers that flock to watch park.” Zamperla’s suc- quick check and then retreat Black Widow in action, the 68 cess with the as the boarding platform sepa- mph pendulum motion gen- Kennywood’s Future AirRace at its rates into eight pie-like wedg- erates a mighty wind blast What the future holds for Luna Park in es that smoothly slide away each time the gondola swoops one of America’s most beloved New York led on metal tracks to allow for through the loading area. trolley parks is something Lagoon officials proper clearance. This unique Even non-riders are impressed that’s on everyone’s mind at to add the ride loading platform, which by the awe and power of Black Kennywood. “Palace is a great to the Salt Lake also incorporates an ADA- Widow. company and they’re very ag- this compliant wheelchair ramp, As for the new ride’s thrill gressive. If you look at what season, thanks was custom designed by factor, Gibas thinks they’ve hit we’ve added in the last few in part to its ac- Zamperla from Kennywood another home run. “The first years, you’ll see what I mean,” robatic airplane specifications. part of our season is all about said Gibas. “Along with the maneuver-like Once the operator receives school picnics, and this kind of new Black Widow, we put in motions. the all-clear signal, the giant ride is something that’s right the SkyRocket launch coaster, COURTESY gondola begins to swing in up their alley. They absolutely a third Potato Patch, the sand LAGOON a pendulum motion while love it.” pit over in Kiddieland and lot rotating counterclockwise. It Aesthetically, the new of other things. They are de- takes only a few passes before ride is a handsome addition to termined to keep Kennywood the gondola reaches its maxi- Kennywood. Along with glass updated with new attractions mum altitude. At the peak of lamps around the perimeter, while maintaining the tradi- the swing — an impressive downward facing spotlights tional aspect of the park. A 120 degrees from the center on the top of the structure perfect indication of that is and 146 feet above the ground and a ring of bright lights on our classic Auto Ride. That’s — riders experience a feel- the bottom of the gondola, going through a major rebuild. ing of weightlessness as well Black Widow is compliment- People love that old ride and as being virtually inverted if ed by the addition of new Palace is committed to mak- their seat happens to be on brick pavers that replace the ing sure the park keeps that the top position. The rotation old asphalt. “That’s some- traditional look and feel while and pendulum motion creates thing Palace decided on,” said still being progressive. Thanks a variety of different sensa- Gibas. “They’ve done it at to our management team here tions depending on a rider’s their properties in Europe and and Palace’s experience with specific orientation. This com- they liked it. The pavers are a older parks in Europe, we’ve bination of elements guaran- new adventure for us. We’re got some exciting things com- tees a unique ride experience going to see how they hold up ing to Kennywood in the every time. and then look at using them at future.” June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5 INTERNATIONAL PARKS ATTRACTIONS RESORTS SUPPLIERS The Swarm hits STORY: Andrew Mellor [email protected]

Reporter’s — Europe’s tallest “winged” roller coaster made Notebook its debut at the U.K.’s Thorpe Park in details March, bringing yet another major thrill ride experience to the venue new logistics touted as “the nation’s thrill capital.” center expansion Launched with a film premiere, — Mack Rides red carpet style “premier screaming” has released details on the ex- event, The Swarm is a Bolliger and pansion of its new logistics cen- Mabillard-built and is ter the company is undertaking the first such attraction to come to on Mauermattenstrasse in Wald- the U.K. kirch. The new facility, which en- Dominating the new Swarm Is- larges the location by more than land section of the park, the ride is 21,500 square feet, will allow incorporated into a fully themed area Mack to respond faster to the depicting scenes of “apocalyptic dev- growing number of customer or- astation” following an alien invasion ders. of , with news bulletins provid- “The great response to and ed in the queue line setting the mood. interest in our quality products with the ‘Made in Germany’ seal It features a seating arrangement in all over the world encourage which riders are positioned on either Thorpe Park’s new wing rider coaster from B&M, The Swarm, is the first such us in our decision to invest in side of the track (two on each side ride to arrive in the U.K. The theme of “apocalyptic devastation” following the location in Waldkirch,” said of each 28-seater ) with nothing an alien invasion is a crucial part of the ride experience. The Swarm uses a jet Managing Director Christian von above or below them, leaving them airplane as part of the near misses that provide the added rider excitement. Elverfeldt. feeling exposed and vulnerable. COURTESY THORPE PARK Slated to come online in late The theme behind the new thrill- October, the new facility will of- er sees park visitors invited to take fer direct links to the vehicle a death defying flight for their lives manufacturing and track produc- through surroundings of devastation tion facilities as well as provide and destruction. Featuring a unique, the company with an important 127 foot (38.7 meters), head first, in- new tool to track material flow. verted drop straight under the wing of a wrecked plane and eyes-tight- shut near misses which take riders Quoted amazingly close to a flaming fire “It’s been an truck, rotating helicopter blades and the walls of a life-size church, The interesting project Swarm tests the nerves of even the to work on and to bravest of coaster fans. design and I’m sure it The area also accommodates a shop, various games operations will be very popular and the new Roast and Relish eat- addition.” ing outlet. Engineers took 48 days —Interlink Managing Director to construct the 1,000 tons of track John Hudd said on their design on which two menacing looking, of a super flume for creature-like trains travel around at ’s PowerPark almost 100 kph. 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012 KidZania attraction set for London by 2014 STORY: Andrew Mellor a private members club for the media the children of Great Britain.” sponsored and branded by leading [email protected] and entertainment business, and a KidZania family edutainment cen- multi-national and local brands. Roles UNITED KINGDOM — KidZania, London-based health and fitness club. ters provide children aged between children can play include some of the the role play theme park concept in Joel Cadbury is also chairman of the four and 14 with an interactive and en- more familiar adult jobs such as a fire- which children get to take part in tra- Royal Parks Foundation, the charita- tertaining educational environment in man, policeman, doctor, shopkeeper, ditionally adult activities and jobs, has ble organization responsible for 5,000 which they can take part in role play chef, mechanic, pilot and many more. announced a new licence agreement acres of London’s eight royal parks. activities that mimic a wide range of London is considered by KidZania with Longshot Kids Ltd. to bring Kid- Speaking at the signing of the new adult activities. The attractions on of- as an ideal location for its attraction, Zania to the U.K. by 2014. licence agreement, KidZania CEO fer combine role play with real life in due to its population size and the rec- Led by British entrepreneurs Joel Xavier Lopez, said: “London is a flag- a city designed to both educate and in- ognized wish in the U.K. to provide Cadbury and Ollie Vigors, Longshot ship European market for KidZania spire its young visitors. high-quality educational opportunities Kids is a subsidiary of Longshot Ltd. and we have a brilliant and creative The indoor theme park functions for youngsters, which aligns perfectly which has developed a wide range of partner in Longshot.” For the U.K. like a real city, complete with build- with KidZania’s purpose. The loca- property and leisure businesses across organization, Cadbury noted: “It is a ings, paved streets, a “functioning tion for KidZania London will be an- the U.K. Interests include restaurants privilege to bring this unique educa- economy” and recognizable destina- nounced in the near future, with open- and inns, the famous Groucho Club, tional and entertainment experience to tions in the form of “establishments” ing scheduled for 2014.

Super 78 in preproduction SkyFly opens in Germany on film for Dinosaur Land

CHINA — Super 78 Studios in , Calif., is pro- ducing an animated feature for release in both the U.S. and in late 2013. China Dinosaur Land, one of China’s larg- est and most popular theme parks, has partnered with the LA- based creative design and production company to co-produce the film while developing the concept for an attraction that will be built in the park. Mido Dino is a family animated feature in a magical world where dinosaurs and humans live together. “Working with Super 78 we’re confident we can establish Mido Dino as a well-known, international brand,” said Horus Tsai, creative producer, Changzhou Dinosaur Land. Tsai said that in addition to the film and theme park attrac- tion, his organization is also looking to extend the Mido Dino franchise through the creation of a TV series as well as pursue mobile game platforms, stage performances, and other potential branded products. “We’ve enjoyed our partnership with China Dinosaur Land and admire the innovative strategy they’re using to optimize their creative investment by simultaneously developing a film and attraction,” said Brent Young, chief creative officer for Super 78. In addition to a film and theme park attraction, develop- ment of a Mido Dino interactive game and children’s book are also in the works. China Dinosaur Land is one of China’s largest and most The Flying Ninjago took flight this spring above the streets of Little Asia at popular theme parks. Based in Changzhou, the park features Germany. The new attraction is one of three SkyFly attractions from Gerstlauer Amuse- more than 30 attractions. ment Rides opening this season. The others include Air Meeting at ’s and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shell Shock at ’s Uni- verse. The SkyFly ride reaches a height of 72 feet, features 12 seats and swings riders at 25 mph. COURTESY GERSTLAUER

A scene from the new Mido Dino film currently in preproduc- tion from Super 78 Studios. This film is being developed for China Dinosaur Land. COURTESY SUPER 78 STUDIOS June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 Two of Maurer Rides’ X-Car Maurer Rides goes Coaster installations – For- mule X at Holland’s Drievliet Amusement Park and Freis- green on two coasters chütz at Germany’s Bayern- Park – are being recognized STORY: Scott Rutherford is temporarily stored and for their power-saving [email protected] re-used for the next launch. propulsion and braking GERMANY — Two of In conjunction with the fly- systems. Both use flywheel/ Maurer Rides’ X-Car roll- wheel/LSM launch, this ener- LSM launch technology er coaster installations are gy storage system reduces the while Freischütz takes it a basking in the spotlight coaster’s power requirements step further by recovering/ not only for being excit- to 125 KW and helps to fur- storing energy produced by ing thrill rides but also for ther reduce operating costs. braking trains and re-using their power-saving propul- •www.maurer-rides.com it for the next launch. sion and braking systems. COURTESY MAURER RIDES The flywheel is hardly new technology; the prin- ciple was readily seen in the Neolithic spindle and the potter’s wheel as well as the reciprocating engine where it maintains constant angular velocity of the crankshaft. In amusement ride applications, the flywheel was utilized by in 1959 to ensure prescribed speeds on ’s Bobsleds. and used it to propel the trains on their sec- ond-generation coasters in the late 1970s. Today, Maurer Rides’ use of the flywheel as a cost-sav- ing form of temporary energy storage is a major component of two popular European steel coasters, Formule X, the company’s first X-Car Coast- er that opened in 2007 at Hol- land’s Drievliet Amusement Park; and the new-for-2011 Freischütz at Germany’s Bay- ern-Park. Instead of tradition- al chain lifts, both coasters feature Linear Synchronous Motor (LSM) magnetic pro- pulsion systems that require 500,000 watts per launch. These massive power-hungry boosts are not taken from the respective park’s main elec- trical circuit but instead from flywheels. After each launch, it takes just 11 seconds un- til the flywheel is fully re- charged at a fraction of what would have been necessary from a direct power launch. Maurer went a step fur- ther in energy conservation with Bayern-Park’s Freis- chütz. Along with the power- saving flywheel/LSM launch, Maurer engineers developed an ingenious system that re- covers the trains’ own brak- ing energy and uses it for the next power boost. Instead of being converted into heat that is simply allowed to dissi- pate, the energy produced by braking the incoming trains 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012 PowerPark to open Interlink super flume in 2013 Unique flume design will drop logs through and under a bridge

FINLAND — Interlink, the France/U.K.-based specialist, has signed a contract to provide a new two- lift super flume ride to Pow- erPark in Finland for opening during the 2013 season. After a very successful 2011, Interlink has started 2012 where it left off, with several new contracts already secured and a number of others for a variety of different attractions in the pipeline. The latest project to be an- nounced by the company is the Interlink will provide a new two-lift for Finland’s PowerPark for the 2013 season. Shown in the right photo, the design, manufacture and sup- attraction will sport a “Bridge over the river Kwai” theme. The ride will be 1,312 feet in length, use nine, six-seat boats ply of a two-lift super flume providing a capacity of 600 passengers per hour. COURTESY INTERLINK for PowerPark, located in Här- mä, Finland. The new ride will The ride will be situated in over the river Kwai.” The will give visitors a view of the erPark has chosen Interlink feature two lifts and two drops a new area of the park and will sound track from the film of complete attraction. to provide them with such an and will have an impressive be integrated into an existing the same name will be used “We’ve enjoyed a great attraction. It’s been an inter- overall circuit length of ap- bridge structure, something throughout the ride and not deal of success with our log esting project to work on and proximately 1,312 feet. It will which provided an additional only will the bridge be a major flume rides over the years,” to design and I’m sure it will utilize a total of nine, six-seat challenge to the Interlink de- backdrop but it will said Interlink Managing Di- be a very popular addition to boats, providing a capacity of sign team. The theme for the also be used as access to a new rector John Hudd, “and are the park when it opens in the 600 passengers per hour. new attraction will be “Bridge Thai restaurant. The bridge naturally delighted that Pow- summer.” June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9 Asian Attractions Expo Hong Kong • June 5-8, 2012 • Exhibitor Listing

3DME Photo Solutions...... 2320 Hankook Leisure...... 219 Rides and Fun Srl...... 332 9th CIAE (Guangzhou) Expo...... 2527 Haystack Dryers Limited...... 734 Ripley Entertainment Inc...... 2311 ABC Rides Switzerland...... 2105 Heege Freizeittechnik...... 2430 S&S Worldwide, Inc...... 601 Action Horizons Inc...... 130 Henan Hengtaihua Amusement Equipment Co., Ltd...... 1337 Sacoa Playcard System...... 2706 AECOM...... 2204 Herborner Pumps...... 705 Safari Challenge...... 2723 Aerodium Ltd...... 2713 Hindustan Amusement Machines Ltd...... 242 ...... 410 Aerophile SA...... 629 HKAAPA...... 2005 Sanderson Group International Pty Ltd...... 524 AFP Technology...... 236 , LLC...... 840 SAPIR...... 2217 AGRIC (Advanced Arcade Game Regional Innovation Center)...... 1040 Hot Games...... 2114 SBF Srl...... 1036 Alterface S.A...... 1028 HUSS Park Attractions GmbH...... 1107 ScooterBug, Inc...... 137 Amazing Interactives Limited...... 1231 Hytechnology, Inc...... 338 Sealy Electronic Technology Co., Ltd...... 815 American Entertainment Group Limited...... 834 I.E. Park S.r.l./Amusement Rides & SOLI ...... 119 Sela Cars s.r.l...... 1343 American Locker Security Systems, Inc...... 605 IAAPA Bookstore...... 2211 Semnox Debit Card System...... 2329 Amusement Today...... IAAPA Central IAAPA Central...... 2111 Severn-Lamb...... 306 Andamiro Co., Ltd...... 2621 IdeAttack, Inc...... 643 Shanghai KMS Lighting Mfg. Co. Ltd...... 2613 Animakitstudios.com...... 2624 Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industr...... 2429 Shanghai Leaders Investment Management Company Limited...... 924 animalive...... 2618 Industrial Frigo SRL...... 243 Shanghai YGTH Entertainment Design Engineering Co.,Ltd...... 2411 Antonio Zamperla SPA...... 801 Intamin Amusement Rides Int. Corp. Est...... 325 Shenyang Chuangqi Amusement Equipment Co., Ltd...... 329 Aoqi Inflatables Limited...... 2725 Intercard, Inc...... 2416 Hill & Park Gardening Co., Ltd...... 2015 ARC- World Skate Parks...... 2616 Interlink LG Ltd...... 1136 Shenzhen Longri Landscape Co. Ltd...... 2523 Arihant Industrial Corp. Ltd...... 204 International Play Company, Inc...... 312 Shenzhen Red Style Tourism Design & Construction Ltd...... 2530 Art Attack...... 2031 InterPark Magazine...... 129 Shenzhen Unite Art Co. Ltd...... 617 Asia Amusement Machine Co. Ltd...... 2617 IREC Beijing Co., Ltd...... 337 Shenzhen Yuanwang Cocotop Technology Inc...... 2518 Attractions Audio Visual Ltd...... 131 IvanXTeam S.r.l...... 728 Showscan Entertainment...... 841 Australasian Leisure Management...... 2420 J & J Amusements, Inc...... 2122 Showtime Entertainment Productions...... 832 AUXEL S.r.L...... 313 Jack Rouse Associates...... 120 SimEx- Iwerks...... 719 B&B Exporting Ltd...... 2304 Jacobs Engineering UK Ltd...... 1240 Simtec Systems GmbH...... 125 Barry Industrial Limited...... 2401 Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc...... 114 Simuline Inc...... 2301 Battlefield Sports...... 241 bv...... 731 Simworx Limited...... 141 Beijing Jiuhua Amusement Rides Manufacturing Co.,...... 709 Josef Wiegand GmbH & Co. KG...... 1143 Skafos International Limited...... 701 Beijing Shibaolai Amusement Equipment Co. Ltd...... 2612 KB Creative Advisors PTE Ltd...... 2104 Sokol Show...... 611 3B Srl...... 100 KCC Entertainment Design...... 437 Splashtacular, Inc...... 2221 Birket Engineering, Inc...... 140 Kingsmen Exhibits Pte Ltd...... 1000 Stretchmarks Asia Sdn Bhd...... 2717 Bob’s Space Racers, Inc...... 429 Kodak (Hong Kong) Limited...... 735 International B.V...... 712 Bolliger & Mabillard Consulting Engineers, Inc...... 205 Korea Game Cultural Industry Association...... 2718 Suzhou Fwu-Long Amusement Equipment Co., Ltd...... 613 Bombay Amusement Ride (P) Limited...... 310 K-River Amusement Co. Ltd...... 2720 Swiss Rides Ag...... 2205 Brunswick Bowling & Billiards Corporation...... 1140 Lagotronics Projects B.V...... 808 Syndicate Printers Group...... 135 Carmi Flavor & Fragrance Co., Inc...... 1106 Lappset Group Ltd...... 1236 Tank Mobile Kiosks Limited...... 2011 Centaman...... 2422 LaserAnimation Sollinger GmbH...... 132 S.R.L...... 115 Centro Digital Pictures Ltd...... 2413 Laserforce International...... 635 Tecway Development Co. Ltd...... 1101 ...... 2101 Laservision Mega-Media PTE LTD...... 2607 Teddy Mountain Pte. Ltd...... 406 Cheer Amusement Equipment Corporation...... 109 LCI Projects Ltd...... 139 The Juice Brand Ltd...... 619 Chengdu Tailong Amusement Industry Co., Ltd...... 1014 Leisure Activities Co., LTD...... 315 The Producers Group...... Sponsor China Association of Amusement Parks and Attractio...... 2330 Leisure Entertainment Company...... 714 Theme Builders Philippines, Inc...... 804 CLM Entertainment...... 2110 Leisure Labs LLC...... Sponsor Themed Entertainment Association (TEA)...... 2414 Cloward H2O...... 233 LifeFormations...... 138 Theming and Industries S.A...... 1114 Cogan S.R.L...... 214 Lockers.Com Pty Ltd...... 2116 Thinkwell Group...... 343 Concept International Design Ltd...... 232 Lo-Q plc...... 715 Tianjin Brother Tourist Train Co. Ltd...... 314 CORE Cashless, LLC...... 607 Mack Rides GmbH & Co. KG...... 2124 Trans-Force Ltd...... 2509 Cosmic Animation Entertainment Sdn Bhd...... 1201 Magical Water Fountains...... 2606 Triotech Amusement Inc...... 807 Cypress Production House...... 2501 Mann Brothers...... 830 Triotech Amusement Inc...... 1006 d’strict...... 2724 Martin & Vleminckx Rides LLC...... 838 TUV SUD PSB PTE. LTD...... 2505 Daeseung Intercom Co. Ltd...... 2625 MAURER Rides GmbH...... 304 UK Trade and Investment...... 2201 Dalian Betop Multimedia Technology Co.Ltd...... 2603 Mirage Entertainment, Inc...... 2424 Universal Space Amusement (H.K) Ltd...... 1125 Delta Strike Laser Tag...... 237 Modern Masters, Inc...... 1141 Uremet Corp...... 2325 DigiPhoto Entertainment Imaging...... 1243 Mondial World of Rides...... 736 Van Egdom B.V...... 1206 Dominic Fun Rides PVT LTD...... 229 Moser’s Rides S.r.l...... 1219 Rides Manufacturing B.V...... 625 DongHo Electronics Co. Ltd...... 2619 MP Group...... 825 Veqtor...... 2120 Dotto S.r.l...... 319 Murphy’s Waves Ltd...... 228 Viro...... 637 Dreampark International...... 704 Mustar Lighting Corporation...... 2323 Vlocker International Pty. Ltd...... 732 Dynamic Attractions and ...... 810 Namco Bandai Games Inc...... 514 Aquatic Structures International Inc...... 500 Dynamic Motion Rides GmbH...... 2315 Nane Design Corp. Ltd...... 2630 Toys, Inc...... 2415 ECA2...... 126 Neptune-Benson, Inc...... 433 Water Technology, Inc...... 814 eibe Produktion + Vertrieb GmbH & Co...... 108 Nicco Parks and Resorts Ltd...... 1242 Waterplay Solutions Corp...... 104 Electrosonic Audio-Visual Technology (Shanghai) Co. Ltd...... 208 Nurburgring Automotive GmbH...... 2516 Waterslides de Mexico...... 1142 Embed International Pty. Ltd...... 1137 nWave Pictures S.A...... 1024 Wave Loch, Inc...... 506 Emotion Media Factory Laserland GmbH...... 2130 Okamoto Mfg. Co., Ltd...... 134 WEO Design Concept Limited...... 2421 Empex Watertoys...... 836 OKE Inc. Designs & Management...... 2631 WhiteWater West Industries Ltd...... 508 ETF Ride Systems...... 239 Old World Cone...... 2521 World Waterpark Association...... 739 ...... 201 OmniTicket Network (Singapore) Pte Ltd...... 307 Xtrem Aventures...... 1245 Facto Edizioni S.r.l...... 2423 OY C.E. Lindgren AB...... 730 Yuehua Token Company...... 633 ’s Treehouse, LLC...... 530 P&P Projects BV...... 328 Zebec, Inc...... 301 Forrec Ltd...... 1111 Park World Recreation Sdn Bhd...... 105 Zhejiang Guangqi Amusement Equipment CO.,LTD...... 2522 FotoSmile Pegaso Control System...... 311 Parkash Vikem Amusement Pvt. Ltd...... 333 Zhejiang Mich Playground Co., Ltd...... 2506 Freij Entertainment...... 2703 Pax Company Ltd...... 213 Zhengzhou Wanle Amusement Equipment Co. Ltd...... 2517 Fun Amusement Lighting Co. Ltd...... 2730 Phoetron Corporation Limited...... 2716 Zhengzhou Wolong Amusement Equipment Co. Ltd...... 1239 FUNA...... 142 Playfun Culture & Technology Co. Ltd...... 1237 Zhong Wei World Arts (Beijing) International Cultural Developing Co. Funplay S.r.l...... 2719 Playtime...... 2223 Ltd...... 2023 Galasys Technologies Sdn Bhd...... 1210 Polin...... 725 Zhongshan Desen Paper Co. Ltd...... 2519 Game Art (Hong Kong) Limited...... 1115 Polysoft Pty Limited...... 2324 Zhongshan Golden Dragon Amusement...... 1225 Game Plus Ltd...... 225 Precision Dynamics Corp...... 1212 Zhongshan Guang Yang Amusement Equipment Co., Ltd...... 1214 Game Time International (GTI)...... 2331 , Inc...... 414 Zhongshan Jinying Amusement Equipment Co., Ltd...... 2520 Gary Goddard Entertainment...... 540 Premierworld Technology Limited...... 212 Zhongshan Junye Amusement Facility Supply Co. Ltd...... 2515 Gateway Ticketing Systems, Inc...... 1118 Preston & Barbieri S.r.l...... 1018 Zhongshan Kingbarth Animation and Amusement Equipment Co. Ltd.. GHESA Ingenieria y Tecnologia, S.A ( BR Of Dubai)...... 209 Prime Play by Whitewater...... 608 ...... 2524 G-Look Amusement Machine Co., Ltd...... 1119 Pro Forma Advisors LLC...... 112 Zhongshan Luck Amusement Co. Ltd...... 101 Gold Medal Products Co...... 240 Prominent Technology Ltd, Funovation...... 2001 Zhongshan Power Amusement Equipment Co. Ltd...... 2731 Golden Horse Amusement Equipment Co. Ltd...... 1215 ProSlide Technology, Inc...... 1131 Zhongshan Xiaolan Ocean Fine Art Plastic Factory...... 2321 Great Coasters International, Inc...... 2225 Ptarmigan Integration...... 143 ZhuZhou CSR Special Equipment Technology Co. Ltd...... 2622 Guangzhou Dalang Water Amusement Park Equipment Co. Ltd... 2425 Qubica AMF...... 708 Karussell- und Spezialmaschinenbau GmbH...... 833 Guangzhou Haisan Entertainment Technology Co. Ltd...... 1339 Rand Productions...... 2229 Zigong City Dragon Culture & Arts Co., Ltd...... 2405 Guzzi Eugenio...... 1345 RDC/Ride Development Co...... 740 Z’odd Design Sdn Bhd...... 1209 Haining HongshiDa Industry Co. Ltd...... 2316 Redrover Co., Ltd...... 743 Zone Systems, Inc...... 336 Hangzhou Trains Equipment Co. Ltd...... 2721 Reka Setia Playground Sdn Bhd...... 215 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012

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MR11-008_ Amusement_Today_4c.indd 1 16.04.12 12:38 June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 11 PARKS & ATTRACTIONS RIDES ENTERTAINMENT REVENUE SUPPLIERS B&M and team up again STORY: Tim Baldwin [email protected]

GURNEE, Ill. – Six Flags Great Reporter’s America has opened a new coaster supplied by Bolliger & Mabillard — for a fifth time. Dating back to 1990, the Notebook first coaster provided by B&M rose at Legoland helps the theme park giving a rise to parents prepare kids the company’s career. Over the course for their first rides of the two decades that followed, B&M would either introduce a new genre of WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — coaster at Six Flags Great America or has prepared further a new breed in its early stages. a guide for parents to help In 1990 Wolf was the first stand- children overcome their fear of up coaster for the firm. The thrill rides. Titled “Ready, Set, Ride, their first inverted coaster, de- Rollercoaster!,” the guide is buted at Great America in 1992 and the available online and at the front innovative coaster concept would be- gate. The park consulted with come one of the most prolific products nationally recognized psycholo- in B&M’s catalog. In 1999, as B&M was gist and child development ex- pert Susan Bartell to create the booklet that includes a list of Above, this exclusive “Roller Coaster Readiness” tips. bird’s eye view shows The guide is aimed at reassuring X Flight’s compact layout. young children who might be At left, Walter Bolliger, anxious about climbing aboard B&M, (inside seat with one of the park’s roller coasters dark pants) takes a ride for the first time. introducing their hyper coasters, Six on his newest creation. Flags Great America premiered an in- Below, riders experience stallation more akin to a twister, rather the keyhole maneuver. AT/GARY SLADE than the traditional out-and-back lay- out typically featured on a hyper coast- Quoted er. This coaster was Raging Bull. One year following the introduction of the “We are very excited flying coaster in 2002 at its sister park to be able to continue in , Great America installed the the successful second Ultimate Flight in the . operation of the Now in 2012, B&M has introduced Sooperdooperlooper by their new wing coaster to North Amer- purchasing new trains ica. Only two have debuted in the States so far. at Dollywood from Gerstlauer.” appeared in March (AT, May, page 1). Six Flags unleashed the second on —Kathy Burrows, May 16. X Flight has now become the public relations manager on the fifth pairing between B&M and Great new trains and other improve- America. It seems to be a partnership ments made to the parks classic draped in success. Sooperdooperlooper coaster “We have a tremendous working relationship with B&M and this proj- ect was no different,” says Dameon 4See X FLIGHT, page 12 Creating Memories & Profitability

• abc rides switzerland • Cogan Kiddie Rides • Moser Rides • Used Rides & Games • Wattman Trains Nashville Zoo Train www.intermarkridegroup.com Voodoo Interactive Raft, abc rides Hoopla, Moser Rides Wattman Mini Express TEL 615.370.9625 FAX 615.370.8852 12 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012

SeaWorld Orlando reveals plans for 2013 attraction: Antarctica - Empire of the Penguin

ORLANDO, Fla. — SeaWorld Orlando de- •Antarctica – Empire of the Penguin will signers and marketing execs revealed a few de- get SeaWorld’s guests closer than ever (and tails of the park’s 2013 new attraction and its out among) its colony of penguins including largest-ever expansion, Antarctica – Empire of gentoos, rockhoppers, adelies and kings. How the Penguin: close has yet to be detailed. •The attraction will include a first-of-its- •Immersing guests in a colony of penguins kind family adventure ride that utilizes new means the new ride will be the coldest theme technology for an experience that can change park attraction in the world. Designers have from visit to visit. Designers also revealed that declined comment on the engineering it will guests will be able to choose the level of thrill take to place SeaWorld guests among a colony they experience on the ride. Each car seats eight of penguins whose habitat must stay in the low guests. 30 degrees for comfort. While SeaWorld Orlando is being mum on revealing suppli- •Guests will be introduced to a new Sea- •The footprint for Antarctica – Empire of ers involved in creating their new Antarctica-Empire of the World star – a young gentoo penguin. The the Penguin is the biggest of any expansion at a Penguin, one thing is for sure, the 2013 attraction is the young gentoo becomes the ride’s guide and SeaWorld or Busch Gardens park. Antarctica’s park’s largest expansion project ever. leads guests on an exciting journey of the Ant- scope includes the ride, penguin habitat, gift COURTESY SEAWORLD ORLANDO arctic. shop and restaurant. X FLIGHT Continued from page 11

Nelson, operations director for Six Flags Great America. “Deliveries were on time, the support has been spectacular, and the ride has run flawlessly since the moment we had it ready to go. They are true pro- fessionals and we are proud to have such a great long term relationship with them.” The wing design of the coaster is sure to have spec- tator appeal as the broad ve- hicles demand attention on first view. The trains seat 32 passengers with riders divid- ed equally stretching beyond both sides of the rails. Because Top left, Six Flags Great America’s new X Flight wing coaster from B&M has a low level curve that highlights this water spray X Flight riders are cantile- and fog thematic element of the ride. Above right, riders are suspended from each side of the steel rails, giving this new vered to the sides of the track coaster technology a unique thrill all its own. AT/GARY SLADE accentuating the coaster’s ar- ticulations, repeat riders are roll,” reports Dugan-Savage. fog misters while completely big that seeing the articulation sure to explore the various dif- “You feel yourself ducking upside down is arguably the is beyond belief.” FAST FACTS ferences that each individual your head and lifting your feet ride’s crowning achievement. At 120 feet, X Flight cur- seat offers on such a ride. at the same time.” The close With such impressive vi- rently stands as the third tall- Name/Park “Not only do you have clearance illusion appears to suals, one could wonder the est coaster at the park behind X Flight/ the sensation of riding on the be a ride highlight. scope of the demographic the towering Raging Bull and Six Flags Great America wing of a plane with no track Theming plays a key role involved for the ride. Park the adjacent American Eagle above you or below you, but in the X Flight experience. President Hank Salemi seems wooden . “This is our first Type all the added elements make The station is modeled after confident. “X Flight is a great major thrill ride since 2003,” Wing coaster it an amazing ride,” beams a military hangar and various complement to our already says Salemi, “and the market Jennifer Dugan-Savage, com- thematic elements displayed spectacular line-up of thrill is extremely excited about it. Height/Length/Speed munications manager for about the ride enhance the aes- rides,” he says. “I was so We are hearing very positive 120 feet/3,000 feet/ Great America. “Coming over thetics. Some of these added pleased after riding it that it news all over , Mil- 55 mph the lift hill you have a fantas- touches truly amp the “Wow is thrilling enough for teens waukee and all of the upper tic view of the park, then the factor” to a higher level. One and adults but not so much so Midwest.” Trains adrenaline rush sets in as you of the lower curves skims just that it will turn off riders of all Amusement Today talked 2 trains, 32 passengers immediately flip into a dive above the water where timed ages. It is the perfect balance.” with Walter Bolliger at the each train drop. It is an incredible sen- jets deliver a wing touch effect. John Odum, senior vice ride’s media opening. When sation.” Following the second inver- president planning and devel- asked if he still gets excited Features Over the course of the sion, the trains dive through opment, agrees. “It’s a spec- each time he rides one of his •Five inversions including: experience, riders maneuver a hangar facade. As reported, tacular ride. It will appeal to coasters, Bolliger replied, a dive drop (half loop), through five inversions along the one-two punch of tra- all age groups.” Odum adds, “It is a thrill each time. You Immelmann & zero-g roll 3,000 feet of track at speeds up versing a keyhole maneuver “The unique thing about this spend your time designing the •Keyhole maneuver to 55 mph. “But the most exhil- through a control tower while ride is where you sit. I tend ride, so you know what to ex- accentuates close arating part of the track has to completely sideways, fol- to be a front seat kind of guy pect, but it is always fun.” He clearances while speeding be speeding straight through lowed by an in-line inversion with the wind in my face, but smiles, “If it is no longer fun, through a control the tower and yellowjacket through black and yellow A- the back seat is spectacular to you should change your job.” tower sideways A-Frame while in an in-line frame structure with dramatic me because the coaches are so June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 13 14 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012

AMUSEMENT FIRST REPORTED ON MARKET PLACE amusementtoday com

North American Representative Amusement Sales, Inc. Texas Office: JRide Sales 405 Dodson Lake Dr. JReplacement Parts Arlington, TX 76012-3442 JService Telephone: (817) 275-9393 • Fax: (817) 860-7373 www.fabbrigroup.com • [email protected] This artist’s renderings gives a look as to what Speed The Ride will look like at its new home on Las Vegas Boulevard South. The ride is scheduled to re-open in 2013. COURTESY BRESLIN BROTHERS Aerial Tramway Design & Manufacture Speed The Ride to get new SkyTrans Mfg.,L.L.C. 106 Burnham Intervale Road Contoocook, N.H. 03229 home on the Las Vegas Strip Phone: (603) 746-4446 Fax: (603) 746-4447 LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Por- relocated to a new location at Breslin Builders is work- •Specializing in sales & refurbishment of used aerial tramways tions of Speed The Ride roller the Akita Retail Center on Las ing with Premier Rides, to •Replacement parts for aerial tramways and amusement rides coaster at the Sahara Hotel and Vegas Boulevard South, across move the existing coaster from •New ride control systems and modifications Casino in Las Vegas, which op- from Mandalay Bay Hotel and its present location, reusing as •Rebuilt used chairlifts - one year guarantee erated for 11 years, are getting Casino. much of the ride as possible. The mid-section will be re- (603) 746-4446 designed to work within and Parts and Service Jerry Pendleton or Dan Pendleton over the existing site and park- ing lot conditions, and allow

LLC for new and exciting curves and bends to be added to the ride. The original 224 foot ver- tical tower will be relocated and provide the reverse point AMUSEMENT for the coaster. Breslin Build- ers is providing design and as- RIDE LIQUIDATION sociated engineering services for the site and coaster station. Rides from Alabama Adventure Speed The Ride was closed in May 2011 along with Sartori Convoy PM ...... $4,000 the Sahara Hotel. Sahara own- S&S PM ...... $350,000 ers SBE Entertainment who Zierer Wave Swinger PM ...... $300,000 acquired the hotel-casino in 2007 said, at the time, that it Eli PM ...... $17,500 was “no longer economically CCI Wooden Coaster ...... $300,000 viable” to operate the nearly Vekoma Boomerang PM ...... $1.8 million 60-year-old casino — one of the first on the strip. Since Bertazzon PM ...... $275,000 then SBE has announced a Structural Technologies Inc Preston Crazy Dance PM ...... $100,000 $744 million planned renova- New Construction Skytrans Mfg. PM ...... $1 million tion with a grand reopening scheduled for 2014, however, Renovations Huss Pirate PM ...... $100,000 Daily Maintenance the existing coaster did not fit Relocations Betazzon Kid Bumper Car PM ...... $60,000 in with the vision for the rede- Track Replacement Chance 50’ Grand Carrousel PM ...... SOLD signed hotel. Although complete plans Demolition Arrow Log Flume (boats & mechanicals) ...... $22,500 Inspections have yet to be announced, Emergency Work Family Raft Ride (boats & mechanicals) ...... $35,000 Akita Plaza is also home to the 2000 Fabbri Jungle Drop ...... $250,000 500-foot 380 Bad Man Hill Rd. • Paxinos, Pa 17860 (see AT, April 2012, page 9) (570) 590-3255 or (570) 590-9880 7-car Open Looping Coaster Train ...... $100,000 currently under construction. [email protected] The coaster and Ferris Wheel along with restaurants and Superior Equipment Services LLC retail outlets are expected to Keep our amusement park industry strong! Larry Moyers • (865) 977-7294 open by summer 2013. Buy products and services from these suppliers. www.amusementridesales.com —Jeffrey Seifert June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 15

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Tilt-A-Whirl TM 16 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012 Hersheypark’s Schwarzkopf coaster receives new trains, upgrades for 2012 Loop coaster receives FIRST REPORTED ON Gerstlauer trains, com Velocity Magnetics amusementtoday braking and Geering Engineering controls modified with cumbersome and much disliked over-the- STORY: Scott Rutherford shoulder restraints, SDL has [email protected] continuously operated as its manufacturer intended. HERSHEY, Pa. — Keeping The most obvious aspect of a classic roller coaster in top the SDL’s 2012 enhancements operating condition requires are the ride’s two new six-car persistence and a dogged de- trains. This set — the coast- termination. While some parks er’s third — was supplied by elect to retire a ride when they Gerstlauer Amusement Rides feel it has reached the end its GmbH. This is quite fitting operating life, others strive to since Gerstlauer is comprised For Sooperdooperlooper’s 35th anniversary, Hersheypark turned to Germany’s Gerstlauer do whatever it takes to keep of several former Schwarzkopf Amusement Rides GmbH to supply two new Schwarzkopf-inspired trains. Additionally, the a beloved attraction running employees that utilize the same 1977-built looping coaster received magnetic brakes from Velocity Magnetics and new con- for the next generation of thrill factory in Münsterhausen, Ger- trol system by Geering Engineering. COURTESY REG / HERSHEYPARK seekers. Hersheypark falls into many. the latter category this sea- “Sooperdooperlooper con- painted a vibrant orange with dated the ride’s control system artifacts headquarted in Plain- son with the purchase of new tinues to be one of the most silver stripes, look and oper- with work being done by Geer- view, Texas. The donated train rolling stock and other im- popular rides at Hersheypark. ate like the original rolling ing Engineering [of Zurich, was delivered in early May. provements for its classic Soo- We are very excited to be able stock. Coaster enthusiasts are Switzerland],” added Burrows. “I would like to thank perdooperlooper (SDL) steel to continue the successful oper- rejoicing over the fact that the “Again, Ride Entertainment Hersheypark for their gener- coaster, which is celebrating its ation of the Sooperdooperloop- new trains utilize only ratchet- Group is assisting with coordi- ous donation. The Schwarz- 35th anniversary in 2012. er by purchasing new trains ing lap bars (no seat belts) as nation between Hersheypark kopf train is a treasure for our Opened in 1977 as the east from Gerstlaurer,” said Kathy Schwarzkopf originally pre- and Velocity and Geering.” rapidly growing collection,” coast’s first modern looping Burrows, the park’s public re- scribed. Incidentally, one of the old said NRCMA Chairman Gary coaster, the SDL was a prod- lations manager. “Adam San- In addition to the new SDL trains (originally built by Slade. “Add the fact the great uct of Anton Schwarzkopf dy with Ride Entertainment trains, the SDL was outfitted Switzerland’s ) has condition that Hersheypark and Werner Stengel. Unlike its Group has been most helpful in with a new control and brak- been donated to the National keeps their ride equipment in sister coaster, the Revolution facilitating this project between ing system. “We have installed Roller Coaster Museum and and we have something that is at , Hersheypark and Gerstlaurer. new magnetic brakes from Ve- Archives (NRCMA), a reposi- as near showroom ready as it which has been unfortunately The two new trains, each locity Magnetics as well as up- tory for amusement industry can be.” SeaWorld Orlando opens all-new TurtleTrek

ORLANDO, Fla. — Tur- tleTrek, SeaWorld Orlando’s newest attraction, comes to life with SeaWorld’s unique blend of up-close encounters with manatees and sea turtles and state-of-the art entertain- ment, making for a real adven- ture and a first-of-its-kind 3D 360-degree dome theater film that is completely surround- ing and immersive. Guests first visit two massive naturalistic habitats, home to gentle manatees and gliding sea turtles, learning what makes each species so precious. They then enter a domed theater and what hap- pens next has never before been seen and is a first at any TurtleTrek, SeaWorld Orlando’s newest attraction offers a unique blend of up-close encounters with manatees and sea theme park in the world. turtles and state-of-the art entertainment in a unique 3D 360-degree dome theater. COURTESY SEAWORLD ORLANDO Inside the dome, they are surrounded by a hyper-real- turtle’s epic adventure that is to help the world and its ani- screens at the new attraction. eliminating plastic gift bags istic, 3D 360-degree film that the heart of TurtleTrek. mals,” said Brian Morrow, And TurtleTrek’s gift shop is within the next year. SeaWorld takes them on the amazing life TurtleTrek is as inspi- the attraction’s chief designer. unique in the way it continues Parks & Entertainment will be journey of a special sea turtle rational as it is astounding. “TurtleTrek is about the every- the attraction’s inspiration and the largest theme park opera- named Nyah. The experience There’s a call-to-action at the day heroes who can make a guests will see exactly how a tor to make this commitment. is all around guests and even end of the experience: Sea- difference in nature.” portion of each dollar spent The eco-friendly move will above them – not just in front World urges guests to join TurtleTrek also offers the benefits in-the-field research save an estimated four mil- of them or only on one screen. in conserving the world we fun (and educational) “Race to help save animals. lion plastic bags per year from It’s this all-new and immer- share. “Do a little, do a lot, for the Beach” video game that Starting at TurtleTrek, both entering landfills and im- sive way of showcasing a sea but join us and do something plays out on massive video SeaWorld and all its parks are pacting wildlife. June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 17 18 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012 Resort unveils Drive-In Golf ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Orlando Resort has officially opened Universal’s Superstar Parade debuts ’s newest and most outrageously-themed miniature golf experience – Hollywood Drive-In Golf at Universal CityWalk. Featuring two 18-hole courses based on classic drive-in era horror and sci-fi movies, this all-new venue is the only place where the entire family can enjoy teeing off through the open mouth of a giant space worm or the basement laboratory of a towering haunted house. To celebrate the grand opening, some of Universal Orlando’s iconic characters made an appearance Uni- versal’s classic monsters — Dracula, Wolfman, Frankenstein’s and the Bride of Frankenstein — putted their way through a creepy cemetery on “The Haunting of On May 5, 2012, Universal Orlando Resort surprised Ghostly Greens” course. On the op- guests with a first look at Universal’s Superstar Parade posite side, Men In Black agents and – one of the largest interactive experiences the theme Frank the Pug played “Invaders from park has ever created. The daily parade will feature elab- Planet Putt” — a course themed after orately-themed floats that tower above guests, hundreds Recently opened at Universal Orlando Resort, Holly- the “little green men” science fiction of energetic street performers and spectacular music and wood Drive-In Golf at Universal CityWalk offers two films of the 1950s. dance performances. The all-new parade’s grand open- 18-hole courses based on classic drive-in era horror Designed by Universal’s Creative ing was held on May 8, along with Universal’s Cinematic and sci-fi movies. Men In Black agents and Frank the team in partnership with Adventure Spectacular, a new nighttime show that unfolds across Pug (shown here) played “Invaders from Planet Putt” – Golf Design and Development, Hol- Universal’s central lagoon, taking guests on a journey a course themed after the ‘little green men’ in science lywood Drive-In Golf is open to the filled with powerful movie moments. fiction films of the 1950s. public daily from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. COURTESY UNIVERSAL ORLANDO •www.CityWalkOrlando.com COURTESY UNIVERSAL ORLANDO June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 19 Kings Island’s 40 years of success started with 1972 opening

STORY: Jeffrey L. Seifert building two coasters in 1968. [email protected] He refused at first, indicating he was wanting to retire. Al- MASON, — The len had also been asked by the success of Disneyland in 1955 general manager of Six Flags led to a new genre of amuse- Over Georgia to construct a ment park — the regional large coaster there, but Angus theme park. Wanting to capi- G. Wynne, Jr., then CEO and talize on the success of Disney, president of the Six Flags Cor- a number of companies and poration was against having organizations built this new a wood coaster at any of his style of park in various loca- theme parks. John Allen finally tions throughout the country. agreed to build a new coaster Some, such as Six Flags, were with the understanding that immediately successful. Oth- Curtis D. Summers would pro- ers, like Freedomland U.S.A. vide assistance with the struc- were financial failures. None- tural engineering. Summers theless, these new theme began his career in the amuse- parks were added to the land- Above, Kings Island’s logo ment industry when he was scape throughout the 1960s from 1972 park brochure. contracted by Coney Island to and 1970s and they attracted Below, this year’s 40th anni- provide structural repairs to a number of different inves- versary logo. the park’s Shooting Star roller tors. Among them was the Taft coaster. He continued to work Broadcasting Company (Taft), with Coney to keep the park’s a -based media con- two wooden coasters structur- glomerate who had recently ally sound. purchased Hanna-Barbera Pro- ductions, one of the first ani- New park icon selected mation studios to successfully Taft was also looking for an produce cartoons primarily for iconic landmark for their new television. Taft was looking for park. Legends surrounding the ways to create a Disney-like choice of an Eiffel Tower con- park with its Hanna-Barbera flict, with one suggesting that Top photo: Pre-construction artist rendering for Kings Is- cartoon characters such as the astating. By 1964 the park was Intamin A.G. of Switzerland land’s new . Above: Kings Island as seen Flintstones, , Scooby- looking at alternative loca- had developed a “ Tower” on opening day in 1972 with landmark tower, and Doo and the Jetsons. tions. 4See KI 40th, page 21 children’s area. COURTESY ITPS ARCHIVES

Coney Island Taft acquires Coney Coney Island was an In late 1968 plans surfaced amusement park located on the for a new theme park in North- banks of the , about ern Kentucky, and the Wachs 10 miles from Cincinnati. The family realized if Coney Island park dates back to the early was to survive they needed a 1870s when James Parker, an well-capitalized partner. Dur- apple grower, realized his or- ing negotiations, Taft made an chard on the banks of the river offer to purchase the park out- was a pleasant place to visit right and the acquisition was and spend time. He eventually completed in July 1969. Soon added a dining hall, dancing afterward, Taft announced the hall, bowling alley and mule- procurement of 1,600 acres powered . In 1886 he of land 24 miles northeast of sold the land and the name Cincinnati in what was then was changed to “Ohio Grove, Deerfield Township. The plan The Coney Island of the West,” was to close Coney Island at and the new park opened on the end of the 1971 season, and June 21, 1886. The follow- open a brand-new theme park ing year, “Ohio Grove” was the following year. dropped from the name and Approximately 150 acres Clockwise from top the park became known sim- was developed for the park. ply as Coney Island. Included with the theme park left: Grand Opening In 1924, ownership trans- was a large hotel and confer- ceremonies included ferred to Coney Island Inc., a ence center, a campground and (l to r) Ralph Wachs, corporation headed by George a golf course. Most of Coney’s Dudley Taft, Charles Schott and Ralph Wachs. The rides and attractions were in Mechem and Earl Wil- park continued to grow and good shape, and the plan was son standing at podi- thrive, and over the decades to move them to the new park um; taking a walk in the Coney expanded into a full- at the end of the 1971 season. opening day parade fledged amusement park that The park’s wooden roll- were Mr. & Mrs. Earl included two large wooden er coasters, however, were Wilson followed by Joe coasters designed by Herbert deemed too old and fragile. Barbera, Hanna Bar- Schmeck of PTC. Its riverside Taft decided that a traditional bera Studios president; location however, turned out wooden coaster would be ap- were to be more of a bane than an propriate for the Coney Island a key figure in the early asset, as the park would suffer section of the park. They con- years of the park. from floods every few years, tacted PTC and president John COURTESY ITPS ARCHIVES some of which were quite dev- Allen, who had just finished 20 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012 Kings Island: A look year-by-year •1970: On June 15, 1970, the Compa- pended roller coaster, debuts. Although the was popular launch roller coaster (Premier Rides), , opens. ny broke ground and began the construction of Kings Island. with guests, it was dismantled and removed in 1984 due to •1997: WaterWorks increases in size to 15 acres. •1971: Construction of the Eiffel Tower, Royal Foun- mechanical difficulties. •1998: Hanna-Barbera Land gets rethemed. tain and Racer roller coaster were completed by early fall. •1982: The Viking Fury swinging ship debuts along with •1999: Vekoma Face/Off inverted looping roller coaster By Thanksgiving, rides and attractions had been transport- a $2.1 million expansion renovation of Hanna-Barbera Land. and the Intamin Drop Zone Stunt Tower open. ed and installed from Coney Island, including the Dodgem, The 10,000-seat TimberWolf Ampitheatre opens and Winter- •2000: is introduced as world’s only loop- Scrambler, Monster, , Log Flume, Sky Ride, Tumblebug fest debuts. ing . FearFest debuts as the first Hal- and . •1983: In 1983 the German Festhaus features live enter- loween event in the park’s history. •1972: After two years of construction, Kings Island tainment and international food selections. •2001: Areas of Rivertown and Hanna-Barbera Land are opened to public April 29, 1972. •1984: King , a stand-up, steel looping roller re-themed into Nickelodeon Central. •1973: Three rides were added - the Flying Dutchman, coaster from debuts. cartoon characters ar- •2002: Huss Tomb Raider: The Ride, a heavily-themed, the , and a second log flume as part of a $6 mil- rive. totally immersive dark thrill ride adventure opens. lion expansion. •1985: , a $4 million Intamin rapid •2003: Scooby-Doo and the Haunted Castle, •1974: A fifth themed area was added this year - the 100 river ride, led the park to a then-record attendance high of (Huss Giant ) and SpongeBob SquarePants 3-D debut. acre (later known as Wild Animal Habitat). 2,981,861 visitors. •2004: The Beast celebrates its 25th anniversary season. •1975: Additions to the park included the , an •1986: Coney Island section is expanded with the ad- •2005: The Italian Job: Stunt Track (Premier Rides) unusual two-armed Ferris wheel, and the world’s largest floral ditions of the 90-foot-high wheel called Skylab, the Zephyr opens as a new, fully themed action stunt car roller coaster hanging basket weighing in at approximately eight tons. , and refurbishment of the Dodgem bumper cars. experience. •1976: Following the collapse of the park’s air theatre A Cinema 180 Theatre was also added at the end of Coney •2006: Three kids rides added include Avatar: The Last from a heavy snow storm, the imposing American Heritage Mall. Airbender, Phantom Flyers and Plankton’s Plunge. On June Music Hall (now known as Kings Island Theater) was erected •1987: The Arrow-built Vortex, a $4 million roller coast- 30, Entertainment Co. purchases at a cost of $1.8 million. The Racer gives 3,681,338 rides in er turned riders upside down six times. Park attendance sur- from CBS Corporation for $1.25 billion. one season. passes 3 million. •2007: Vekoma Firehawk flying coaster debuts. •1977: The Arrow-built Screamin’ opened, be- •1988: Intamin Amazon Falls chutes ride added. •2008: The Kings Island Hall of Fame was created to coming one of the first steel looping coaster in the U.S. to run •1989: Waterworks, a new 12-acre, $4.2 million water- honor park associates who made extraordinary contributions both forward and backward. The 1,700-seat outdoor Interna- park opens; specially priced two-day ticket is introduced. during years of service at the park, or have distinguished tional Showplace Theater opens. •1990: Intamin Flight Commander debuts. themselves in some way that makes them worthy to receive •1978: The College Football Hall of Fame joined the •1991: Arrow mine train is intro- this honor. Carmen Electra, Dennis Speigel and Janeen Kings Island complex. duced. Coyle comprise the inaugural class of inductees. •1979: Three years in the making by park personnel, •1992: New haunted ride from Morgan, the Phantom •2009: Massive $22 million Diamondback (B&M) is in- The Beast opens setting a new standard for roller coasters Theatre debuts. In August, Paramount Communications, Inc. troduced. throughout the world. The Beast continues to be listed in purchased Kings Island and KECO to form Paramount Parks. •2010: Kids area rethemed to . the Guinness Book of World Records as the longest wooden •1993: Arrow Top Gun debuts. •2011: WindSeeker, a $5 million, 301-foot tall tower ride roller coaster. •1994: Days of Thunder racing simulator opens in Co- from Mondial and Dinosaurs Alive! make debut. •1980: A number of improvements were made to the ney Mall between the Racer’s turnaround. •2012: , a $10 million expansion of the park’s Beast this year, including re-banking parts of the track, en- •1995: Nickelodeon Splat City explodes onto the scene, existing waterpark, highlights Kings Island’s 40th anniversary closing the 540-degree helix-turn, and joining the other two introducing green slime as a new brand of messy fun; Sky- season. main tunnels. coaster opens. •1981: The $3.8 million Bat, an Arrow prototype sus- •1996: The world’s first (LIM) June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 21

KI 40th cated, and the original Coney Island. Continued from page 19 Kings Island opens for , but Kings Island held several Wynne rejected it, deciding preview events with the first instead to build a 300-foot-tall taking place on April 29, 1972. Oil Derrick. Intamin presented The park officially opened to the Paris Tower to Taft, who the public almost a month later decided the one-third replica on May 27, the start of the Me- of Paris’ famous Eiffel Tower morial Day weekend. would be the centerpiece of The park offered 65 at- the International section of the tractions that first year in four park. Another story has Gary themed areas: International Wachs (son of Ralph Wachs) Street, Coney Island, Rivertown coming up with the idea for an and the Happy Land of Hanna Eiffel Tower replica after a visit Barbera. Stepping through the to Paris. turnstiles, guests were greeted Construction began on with a large entrance mall, June 15, 1970, and by the close lined with shops and highlight- of the 1971 season, most of the ed by the Royal Fountains, a Left to right: Construction of Kings Island took two years, 1970-1972, before opening on infrastructure was in place large 60,000 gallon rectangular April 29, 1972; the park’s icon Eiffel Tower as seen under construction in May 1971 and and the park was ready for fountain with multiple spray an influx of rides from Coney when the legendary Beast wooden coaster debuted in April, 1979 it broke all records for heads producing a variety of any roller coaster on the planet. COURTESY KINGS ISLAND Island. Along with the rides ever-changing water plumes. came some of the famous Several major attractions road features two Crown Metal park. and spent Ginkgo trees from Coney’s included the 330-foot Eiffel Products locomotives that are A record 2,012,000 guests a day at the park enjoying main mall. The trees were Tower, and the Kings Mill Log 36-inch gauge scale replicas visited Kings Island in the first the rides. The Partridge Fam- transplanted in the new Coney Flume that had been relocated of the famous 1800s locomo- season of operation, making ily episode “I Left my Heart in Island section of the park. from Coney Island. Costing $2 tive know as The General. The it one of the most successful Cincinnati” aired on January A naming contest was million to build, the Enchanted 1.1-mile narrated trek included opening years in the history of 26, 1973, and the Brady Bunch held and the most popular Voyage was the most scenes from the frontier days of theme parks. “The Cincinnati Kids” aired on name submitted was Kings expensive ride in the park; the Ohio Valley. The Racer was But Taft didn’t stop there. November 23, 1973. Both epi- Island, borrowing from the it took guests on a journey the first twin-tracked wooden The media conglomerate took sodes thrust Kings Island into name Kings Mills, an unin- through several rooms popu- roller coaster to be built in the advantage of its television con- the national spotlight bringing corporated community within lated with old and new Hanna- U.S. in 35 years. Its massive nections to promote the park. fame and recognition to the Deerfield Township in which Barbera characters. The Kings structure spanned the length of Two of TV’s most popular sit- new theme park. the land for new park was lo- Island & Miami Valley Rail- the Coney Island section of the com families, the Partridges 4See KI 40th, page 22 22 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012

KI 40th continued to expand with Kings Island adding several no- Continued from page 21 table attractions over the years. Then on July 31, 1992, in the Taft adds more parks middle of Kings Island’s 20th Kings Island’s continued anniversary celebration, KECO success led Taft to the devel- was sold to Paramount Com- opment and acquisition of ad- munication for $400 million, ditional theme parks. Kings the deal also included the sale Dominion, a park similar to of Kings Island by American Fi- Kings Island opened in Do- nancial Corporation. swell, Virginia in 1975. Taft then When Kings Island opened purchased the two-year-old in 1993 it had a new name — Park in North and Paramount’s Kings Island, South Carolina later that same and a new tagline “Where the year. After many years of plan- Magic of Movies Meets the ning, Canada’s Wonderland, Thrills of a Lifetime!” Para- north of Toronto, opened in mount added characters and 1981 as a joint venture between themes to the park based on its Taft and the Great-West Life As- vast repertoire of movies and surance Company. television shows. Along with a new logo and new name was a The Beast makes new coaster, Top Gun, themed record-setting debut to the popular 1986 movie. The Just half a decade into Paramount tie-ins continued Kings Island’s existence, Taft over the next 14 years, with Top photo: Kings Island and was looking to bring even more many major rides built during The Racer as seen today. recognition into the park. Led that time having some type of Second row from left, the by resident engineer Al Col- movie theme. new Diamondback steel roll- lins and Jeffrey Gramke, a team Paramount Communica- er coaster and the Kite Eat- was assembled to build a new tions also changed hands a few ing Tree provide thrills for roller coaster in the natural hills times merging with in all age groups. Bottom two and valleys near the Rivertown 1993. That merger brought the photos show Kings Island at section of the park. The instruc- Nickelodeon properties to the it best from a great ride on tions from Taft — break all the park. In 1999 Viacom merged a log flume, to the challenge records. Two years later on a again with the CBS corpora- and fun of the arcade. cold, rainy, Friday the 13th of tion, though little was changed AT FILE/GARY SLADE & April, The Beast, the world’s in the way of theming. Para- TIM BALDWIN longest, tallest and fastest mount’s Kings Island contin- wooden roller coaster was un- ued to grow and expand add- veiled. The ride became famous ing another record-breaking nationwide, and is still perhaps wooden coaster in 2000. coaster. This genre was intro- one of the most well-known Meanwhile, back in New duced by in 1989 coasters in the world. York City, Viacom was dealing and has been installed in almost with a stagnating stock price every Cedar Fair-owned park. Merry-Go-Round of and Viacom’s board approved Like so many theme parks multiple ownerships begin a split of CBS and Viacom in of the last few decades, Kings In 1984 a group of senior June 2005, effectively undoing Island saw its share of owner- executives and general manag- the 1999 merger. The CBS Cor- ship changes with each pulling ers of Taft’s amusement park poration was given Paramount the park in a different direction group acquired the theme park Parks which they put up for and each leaving an indelible division for $167.5 million in a sale. Sealed bids were accepted mark behind. But through it all leveraged buyout, and a new from several companies in- the park has endured. entity, Kings Entertainment cluding the former executives Though Yogi and Fred are Company (KECO), was formed. of KECO. In the end the Para- long gone along with many of 1984 also saw the opening of mount Parks company was the attractions from that open- Hanna-Barbera Land in Spring, awarded to rival park operator ing year, much still remains: Texas, outside of Houston. The Cedar Fair Entertainment Com- The Eiffel Tower, the Racer, following year Australia’s Won- pany which had grown over the The Scooby Doo coaster (now derland opened in Sydney, also last 30 years into a multi-billion Woodstock Express), the Kings a joint venture similar to the ar- dollar company. The sale price Island Railroad, log flume, rangement in Canada. KECO was a staggering $1.24 billion , and the Royal also contracted with the City of and took effect June 30, 2006. Fountains. Since that grand Santa Clara, California, to man- When the park opened for opening in 1972 more than 120 age the Great America park the 2007 season, it used its orig- million visitors have experi- which the city had acquired inal name, Kings Island, and all enced the park’s world-class from the Marriott Corporation. of the movie theming was re- rides, shows and attractions. The leveraged buyout took its moved from the park. No lon- Through its media tie-ins and toll on finances however and ger having access to licensed record-breaking rides Kings Is- in 1987, Kings Island was sold properties, several of the park’s land has likely been in the lime- to Cincinnati-based American major attractions had to be light more than any other park Financial Corporation. KECO renamed. The Nickelodeon- outside of Disney. continued to manage the park. themed kids section remained Congratulation to Kings Although the theme parks through the 2009 season, re- Island on 40 spectacular years. continued to thrive, Hanna- placed by Cedar Fair’s licensed Amusement Today wishes the Barbera Land lasted only two characters in 2010. In park all the best this year and years. Kings Island and the rest 2009 Cedar Fair installed Dia- for many more decades to of the KECO-controlled parks mondback, a large steel hyper come. June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 23 WATERPARKS & RESORTS INDOOR FACILITIES AQUATIC CENTERS RECREATION SUPPLIERS Alley makes landfall Reporter’s in Corpus Christi, Texas Innovative Leisure Notebook Partners oversees City of Vista, Calif. $10 million project may cut subsidy to STORY: Jeffrey L. Seifert the Wave Waterpark [email protected] VISTA, Calif. — The city of Vista is looking for ways to trim CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — After the city budget. One possible three years of planning, Hurricane Al- cut is an annual subsidy to the ley opened its gates in time for Moth- city-owned Wave Waterpark. ers’ Day. Several hundred people vis- Depending on the weather, the ited the park for the first time on May subsidies can fluctuate from 13, and enjoyed the six-story water $450,000 to more than $800,000 slides, racing slides, lazy river or the per year. Cooler summers mean 12,000-square foot wave pool at the fewer customers and less rev- brand-new, $10 million, eight-acre enue. While the anticipated park. sales tax is showing an increase Hurricane Alley’s opening day team includes l to r: Bill Durrill, park owner; of $900,000, it is not enough to Jim Kunau, assistant general manager; Bob Logan, general manager; Ashley offset a drop of $1.1 million in Higson, public relations manager; Chuck Hendrix, CEO of Innovative Leisure the anticipated property tax rev- Partners (project managers); Sandy Anderwald and Larry Anderwalk, both enue. The Wave Waterpark is co-owners of TurnKey Catering (concessions leasee). AT/GARY SLADE scheduled to open this summer, but beyond that will depend on the decisions made by the city council. The soft opening was kept low key Two new waterparks with the park open on weekends only still in planning stages from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Although all the attractions are fully operational, cos- for Las Vegas, area metic touchups and additional land- scaping will be added to the park over LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Las Ve- the next few weeks. A formal grand gas metro area is still on track for opening was scheduled for Memorial two new waterparks in 2013. As Day weekend and the park will then be previously announced, Splash open seven days a week through Labor Canyon delayed its opening Day. from Memorial Day 2012 but CEO Chuck Hendrix with Innova- is on track for a 2013 opening. tive Leisure Partners of Houston met Meanwhile the developer of a with Mayor Joe Adame July 4, 2009, to second project in Henderson, discuss development plans for a new to the west of the strip, has waterpark for the city. Corpus Christi secured funding and plans to native Bill Durrill of Durrill Properties The original concept for Hurricane Alley began with a meeting on July 4, close on the property in July and was the driving force behind the devel- 2009 between Corpus Christi Mayor Joe Adame and Innovative Leisure Part- break ground in August. opment of the new park. ners CEO Chuck Hendrix. The $10 million park became a reality when the After working a deal to secure gates opened to the public on May 13 for a soft opening with the grand 4See HURRICANE, page 24 opening set for Memorial Day weekend. AT/GARY SLADE 24 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012 HURRICANE Continued from page 23 property, then drawing up a design and engineering plan, an announcement was made July, 2011, and ground was broken in August. The prop- erty is on the site of an old cotton warehouse. Much of the original warehouse struc- ture was preserved and repur- posed, now serving as space for a gift shop, offices, men’s and women’s locker rooms and a large, covered area that houses rental lockers. Although the site offered some benefits in the way of existing structures, it created some unforeseen problems as well. As excavation began for the pool, lazy river and slide footings, buried concrete was discovered that required re- moval, increasing the amount of time needed for installa- tion of the park. Much of the concrete was broken up and stacked at the boundaries of the park to form a low wall. The stacked concrete will be sprayed with additional mate- rial then painted to match the rest of the waterpark, creating an aesthetically pleasing pri- vacy screen. Hendrix choose to use Texas and local-based suppli- ers whenever possible. The waterpark slides were provid- ed by Alamo Grid of Seguin, Texas, and local contractors, architects, laborers and suppli- ers were utilized for many of the remaining structures and features. Of course, not ev- Hurricane Alley, the new $10 million eight-acre waterpark from Innovative Leisure Partners opened on May 13 in Corpus erything can come from Texas Christi, Texas on the site of a former cotton warehouse. Part of the warehouse structure was kept in place for use as the — California-based Aquatic park’s changing areas and gift shop as seen in the top row. The slides were supplied by Alamo Grid and Arihant Industrial Design Group provided the Corp. with Zebec Water Sports supplying all the tubes and racer mats. Supporting suppliers include Aquatic Design Group, overall design, India-based Splash Radio, Core Cashless and Smarte Locke. Below, the park’s patio deck and covered picnic area is seen adjecent to the Arihant Industrial Corp. pro- outfield of Whataburger Field, home of the Class AA Corpus Christi Hooks.AT/GARY SLADE vided the four-lane racer slides and Zebec Water Sports views from the slide towers beer, wine and mixed drinks. of Fairfield, Ohio supplied all of the ballpark playing field Hurricane Alley has seven of the tubes and mats. Other as well the coastline, ship- full-time employees includ- familiar suppliers include ping channel and downtown ing Bob Logan who serves as Splash Radio, Core Cashless, skyline. The stadium draws the startup general manager Coca Cola and Smarte Locke. almost half a million guests of the park until September, Chuck Hendrix told from April to September and at which time Jim Kunau will Amusement Today, “Zebec was a combo ticket is available al- step into that position. The easy to work with, they were lowing guests to enjoy the park employs about 120 sea- very, supportive; they talked waterpark during the day un- sonal workers. to us about what the plan til 6 p.m. then walk next door Although just getting ought to be; they talked to us to the ballpark for an evening started, additional land has about the conversion on the Hooks game. already been acquired for ex- slide turns. We talked to the Quite a number of private pansion. Innovative Leisure major suppliers and they were outings are already booked Partners is also looking at de- the ones who really came and for an evening session taking veloping the Hurricane Alley impressed us with their want- place from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. A brand in other markets. ing to get the deal done.” 200-person VIP deck that over- “I think for the footprint Hurricane Alley is adja- looks the ballpark field is also and the space we had to work cent to Whataburger Field sta- available. The park offers all with, the offerings are great dium, the Class AA affilifate types of meal options through for this park,” said Chuck for MLB’s Houston Astros. TurnKey Catering and an al- Hendrix. Guests can enjoy spectacular cohol permit allow for sales of June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 25 26 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012 WhiteWater West a major supplier for UAE waterpark UAE — Canada’s White- SplashBand. Players activate Water West has been commis- dozens of fun water effects to sioned to supply and manu- score points while following facture 12 of 14 complexes for clues to complete challenges the highly anticipated Yas Wa- as they actively explore the terworld . Boasting quest spread all over the wa- over 15-hectares adjacent to terpark. on Elaborate theming on Yas Island, UAE, this water- many of the attractions, includ- park is set to become one of ing two AquaPlay multi-level the largest and most popular interactive play structures, waterparks in the Middle East. will support Yas ’s Currently under con- celebration of Emirati culture, struction, Yas Waterworld heritage and infrastructure. Abu Dhabi will feature the Yas Waterworld Abu Dha- world’s first Rattler Mega- bi will offer two FlowRider at- Tube waterslide. Featuring tractions, the FlowBarrel Ten “rattles” which change shape Double and the FlowRider in alignment with the differ- Double. ent lengths of cylinders, the Rattler shakes riders up with a WhiteWater West has been series of twists, turns and os- awarded a contract to deliv- cillations. er 12 attraction complexes Yas Waterworld Abu Dha- to the new Yas Waterworld bi will also deliver another Abu Dhabi. Key installa- world’s first with Splash- tions will include the world’s Quest, a live action video first Rattler MegaTube (top game adventure that brings photo); AquaPlay (left) and waterpark technology to the Flow Rider complex (right). next level using the patented COURTESY WHITEWATER waterproof AquaGlove or Waterplay park opens at Pirates Cove Fun Zone

Arihant Industrial Corp., oversaw all construction and Alamo Grid supply the installation of the waterpark. water elements for park The adjacent entertain- ment complex has a 13,500 BURLESON, TEXAS – square foot family entertain- Pirate’s Cove, Burleson’s first ment center called Pirate’s waterplay park, opened May Cove Fun Zone. It includes 5 next to the North Texas Jel- a 24-foot climbing structure, lystone Park Camp-Resort. mini bowling, laser frenzy, “We’re pretty excited an S&S Frog Hopper ride about it,” said Steve Stafford, and more than 40 interactive general manager of the North and arcade games from Al- Texas Jellystone, which is de- pha Omega. veloping the four-acre fam- The Pirate’s Cove water- ily entertainment center with play park is open to the pub- both wet and dry play areas lic for a nominal admission as well as a food court with price, while the Pirate’s Cove varied menu options. Fun Zone and food court can Pirate’s Cove, the only be visited without an admis- park of its kind in Johnson sion charge. County, features a 26,000 “We want to be able to square foot, 36-foot high cater to the needs of water- interactive waterplay park park enthusiasts as well as with seven waterslides plus people who simply want to interactive features, includ- drop by and have a place for The Pirates Cove waterplay unit from ing a pirate themed struc- their children to play or en- Arihant is highlighted by numerous ture, a floating lily pad, a joy a meal without getting waterplay features, seven waterslides and ropewalk, 28 cabanas and wet,” Stafford said. tipping buckets. Two pool areas, and 28 an activity pool. The water- Kent Lemasters, Amuse- cabanas make up the water area. At left, play unit was supplied by ment Aquatic Management inside the FEC area, an S&S Frog India-based Arihant Indus- Group is the consulting man- Hopper, 24-foot tall climbing structure trial Corporation Ltd. Texas- ager for the waterplay and and 40 interactive games are set around a based Alamo Grid provided FEC areas. themed food area. AT/GARY SLADE a kiddie pirate boat and June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 27 MEDIA

28 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012 NEWSPAPER Polin suppyling equipment EMPLOYEE IN GOOD STANDING B.NEWS JEFFREYDEREK SHAW L. SEIFERTSPLASH to China waterpark COMPILED:EDITORIALEDITORIAL Jeffrey L. Seifert, [email protected]

CHINA — Polin Wa- the industry, leaving a shiny The new water and snow park in Nashville, in place, the waterpark was planning to open MEDIAMEDIA terparks & Pool Systems is finish on both sides. Tenn. (seeCREDENTIAL CREDENTIALAT March, 2012) by Gaylord and on Memorial Day weekend and start generat- providing waterslides and •The Uphill Navigatour, Dollywood hasVALIDVALID been granted a 12-year 60-per- ing income. waterplay areas for the new Polin’s newest offering, is a cent propertyTHROUGHTHROUGH tax break 2012by 2010the Nashville Metro • Caribbean Island Water Park water coaster that provides up Council. Gaylord and Dollywood, working with Big Splash Water Park, a popular summer in Yantai, China, located on and down sections of flume University of Tennessee economists, have pro- place for residents of Billings, , was de- China’s Eastern coast. for the ultimate in thrilling jected the park will bring in 500,000 visitors a molished in April. The property, which had been year and create more than 1,900 direct and in- up for sale for some time, was purchased by the The 45,000 square-meter slides. GARY SLADE direct jobs during construction and 1,800 jobs nearby Kelly Inn. The new owners plan to build (11-acre) park is being devel- •The Kids Play & Fun play PUBLISHER, AMUSEMENT TODAY once it opens in 2014. a new motel on the property. The closure could oped by Xin Guang Invest- structure, along with a similar • have left the city without a waterpark, but a new ment Co Ltd and was designed version in the indoor section, According to two of the world’s leading ex- Sahara Park Aquatic Center is currently under by Dreampark International. features interactive water fea- perts on lightning, last September’s death of a construction by the city of Billings department The project includes an indoor tures and junior-sized slides. 21-year old Adventure Island (Tampa, Fla.) life- of Parks, Recreation and Public Land. It is ex- waterpark, outdoor waterpark Attractions in the indoor guard was caused by the use of non-standard pected to open this summer. and hotel. Polin is supplying section include a second and lightning rods. The slide on which the guard • seven slides for the park along slightly shorter Uphill Navi- was killed was located between two lightning Last month CoCo Key Indoor Water Park, with two interactive kids play gatour. The Magic Hole is protection installations. The systems rely on a Rockford, Ill., conducted a special promo- areas. an enclosed slide that has a French-made device that is not approved by tion to help raise money for the Friends of the “We are excited to bring unique elliptical shape and any U.S. safety code or standard. The product Rockford Public Library. “CoCo’s Spring Book some of our most thrilling flat bottom. It is an exciting is marketed in the U.S. by National Lightning Drive,” which began April 29, offered $5 off rides, especially the Family new Polin slide that delivers Protection Corporation of Colorado. admission for the day to the indoor water park Turbolance and Uphill Navi- an unforgettable ride experi- • with a donation of a new or gently-used book. gatour, to Caribbean Island ence with twists, turns and A controversial waterpark and hotel pro- The promotion ran every Sunday through the Water Park,” says Jake Park of drops. The Magic Hole can use posal for The Forks in Winnipeg, Manitoba, end of May. Organizers expected to collect Canada, unanimously passed through the more than 1,000 books. Friends of the Rockford Dreampark International. single, double or triple inner city’s Executive Police Committee (EPC). The Public Library will sell them at their book shops Attractions in the outdoor tubes and even family boats Alberta-based hotel chain Canalta Develop- located at two of the Library’s branches The section of the waterpark in- that seat four, which makes ment and WaterFun Products proposed the money collected from the book sales will go clude: it a great slide to enjoy with 50,000-square-foot waterpark and hotel devel- back to the library in the form of grants. Books •Family Turbolance — family and friends. Two ver- opment. The city-owned land where the water- that could not be used or sold are donated to one of Polin’s extreme slides. sions of the Aquatube slides park would be built is located across the street Better World Books, an organization that helps Guests first dive down a steep are quick and thrilling. The from Shaw Park, the home of the Goldeyes provide books to needy people around the drop and up a vertical section smaller inside radius makes baseball team. Mayor Sam Kats, who owns the world. before reversing course and for a fast and exciting ride. The baseball team, recused himself from the vote. • traveling over a small hill be- Kids Play & Fun similar to the However, members of the EPC are hand-picked Calypso Waterpark in Limoges, , fore ending in a splash pool. outdoor version will feature by the mayor. The recommendation from the near Ottawa, received the Innovation of the This slide combines elements interactive water features and EPC was scheduled to go to a full meeting of Year award for last year’s Summit Tower aquatic of Polin’s Flying Boats and junior-sized slides. the city council for a final vote. An approval by complex addition. Noted as being the high- Wave Slide. Caribbean Island Water the council would allow Canalta to receive a est freestanding waterslide tower in North •The Family Rafting Park is scheduled to open in $7-million city grant. Adding to the controversy America, the 10-story tower features 10 differ- Slide features 6 – 8 passenger late spring, 2013, with the ho- is the fact that another waterpark and hotel has ent slides including two . The new also been proposed — one that doesn’t require complex was provided by WhiteWater West of circular rafts that twist, turn tel and indoor and outdoor any taxpayer money. On April 27, the city coun- British Columbia. and drop through waterparks. Future growth cil decided to postpone the vote to get more • course. The Family Rafting plans include an entertain- details after the council was inundated with The residents of the city of Walla Walla, Slide is the first and only RTM- ment center. negative feedback. Washington, will be asked to vote on a new tax manufactured family slide in —Jeffrey Seifert • levy to raise money for a city-owned waterpark. Plans for the Waterpark If approved, taxes would increase 50 cents per in Cedar Park, Texas, are still progressing. each $1,000 of assessed property for the next Though not much has been heard since the nine years raising a total of $7.8 million. The city park was announced January, 2010, news has has already received pledges of $1 million in surfaced that the partners — Schlitterbahn, Ce- private donations. The new family aquatic cen- dar Park Land LP and investors—were closing ter with two slides, a wave pool, lazy river and in on a deal. No timeline or opening date has splash pad would replace the closed Veteran’s been set. The economic development direc- Memorial Pool tor of Cedar Park helped recruit Schlitterbahn • for the project, but it was the responsibility of Following a Cryptosporidium outbreak in the various partners to find investors. Once the March, the Edgewater Resort & Water Park deal is finalized, the city of Cedar Park intends in Duluth, Minn. made a $100,000 investment to pursue a multi-million dollar economic incen- to make sure it doesn’t happen again. In May, tive package. the park installed an ultraviolet water-treat- • ment system that will quickly eliminate harmful Snö Mountain, Scranton, Pa. is hoping a micro-organisms and bacteria from the water. warm summer will boost attendance at its Snö It disables Crypto in a way that normal levels Cove waterpark. This year’s unusually warm, of chlorine do not. Crypto can survive in prop- snowless winter has put a financial strain on re- erly maintained facilities and even though the sorts up and down the eastern half of the U.S. waterpark was meeting or exceeding industry Snö Mountain/Snö Cove hasn’t made good on standards, people still got sick. UV technology & Pool Systems has won the contract to its real estate taxes and a state loan is still in for- has been available to waterparks for about five provide numerous waterslides and a waterplay area to the bearance as it accrues interest. The resort was years and some states have begun to mandate Caribbean Island Water Park in Yantai, China. Among the looking for refinancing packages for its debts it. The outbreak damaged the park’s reputation highlights of the deal is this tower complex that consists of and arrearages. The resort had been looking for and they are doing what they can to earn back Family Turbolance (extreme slides); a Family Rafting slide a loan in excess of $10 million, using the resort the public’s trust. and the Uphill Navigatour, Polin’s new uphill water coaster. and its 388 acres as collateral. With financing COURTESY POLIN June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 29

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ning never stops a ear t W e l WA Th Our networking events ! give you the extra time to share ideas and best practices with like-minded professionals – and they are lots of fun! www.waterparks.org/ convention Online registration available NOW! June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 33 BUSINESS REVENUE PEOPLE SAFETY SUPPLIERS Apollo Global Management acquires Reporter’s Great Wolf Resorts for $262 million Bidding war upped Kim Schaefer, chief executive About Apollo officer of Great Wolf, said, “All of us Global Management Notebook final purchase price at Great Wolf are very excited about NEW YORK, N.Y. — Apollo 2012 Asian Expo trade partnering with the team at Apollo (NYSE: APO) is a leading global NEW YORK, N.Y. — An affili- and what that partnership will show floor sold out alternative investment manager ate of Apollo Global Management mean for our next phase of growth, with offices in New York, Los An- and Great Wolf Resorts Inc. an- geles, Houston, London, Frank- CHINA — The Internation- as well as the benefits it offers to our nounced furt, Luxembourg, Singapore, al Association of Amusement employ- Mumbai and Hong Kong. Apollo Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) on May 4 ees and had assets under management of announced exhibit space on the the suc- the com- more than $75 billion as of De- Asian Attractions Expo (AAE) cessful munities cember 31, 2011, in private equi- 2012 trade show floor has sold comple- we serve. ty, credit-oriented capital markets out. Covering more than 6,000 tion of Apollo’s and real estate funds invested square meters, AAE 2012 will Apollo’s proven in- across a core group of nine indus- be the largest trade show IAA- acquisi- vestment tries where Apollo has consider- PA has hosted in Asia. Approxi- tion of track re- able knowledge and resources. mately 275 companies from 30 Great cord and •www.agm.com countries will display the latest Wolf Re- innovations, services, and prod- access to ucts for the amusement parks sorts, Inc., capital and attractions industry. The an- North will fa- nual trade show will take place Ameri- cilitate the About Great Wolf June 5-8, 2012 at the Hong ca’s larg- continued Resorts, Inc. Kong Convention and Exhibi- est fam- expansion of Great Wolf as a pre- MADISON, Wis. — Great Wolf tion Centre in Hong Kong SAR, ily of indoor waterpark resorts, for mier family vacation destination.” Resorts, Inc. (NASDAQ: WOLF), China. $262 million. Madison, Wis., is ’s largest family of indoor waterpark •AAE exhibitor list...page 9 Aaron Stone, a senior partner at About the acquisition resorts, and, through its subsidiar- Apollo Global Management, com- The affiliate of New York-based ies and affiliates, owns and oper- mented, “We are very excited to Apollo, which is an alternative in- ates its family resorts under the have completed the acquisition of vestment manager, offered $7.85 Great Wolf Lodge brand. Great Wolf. Since the beginning of a share. Great Wolf shares (NAS- Great Wolf Resorts is a fully Quoted this process, we have been extreme- DAQ: WOLF) stopped trading after integrated resort company with “Some companies ly impressed with Great Wolf, in- the market closed on Friday, May 4 Great Wolf Lodge locations in: in the attraction cluding its management team and and will no longer be listed. Wisconsin Dells, Wis.; Sandusky, and entertainment the exceptional family destination Apollo’s purchase price of $262 Ohio; Traverse City, Mich.; Kan- sas City, Kan.; Williamsburg, Va.; resorts that it operates.” million comes after a bidding war industries anticipate the Pocono Mountains, Pa.; Ni- Scott Ross, a partner at Apollo that began when Apollo agreed in that by 2013, up to agara Falls, Ontario; Mason, Ohio; Global Management, added, “We mid-March to buy Great Wolf for half of the traffic to Grapevine, Texas; Grand Mound, believe that Great Wolf will prove $5 a share. Some big sharehold- Wash.; and Concord, N.C. their websites will be to be a strong addition to the Apol- ers argued that Great Wolf Resorts Great Wolf’s consolidated from mobile devices.” lo portfolio of investments and we was worth much more. KSL Capi- subsidiary, Creative Kingdoms, —Statement from look forward to working with Kim tal Partners, another private equity LLC, is a developer and operator Gateway Ticketing Company Schaefer and her talented manage- firm, made repeated counter offers, of technology-based, interactive on website trends ment team to build upon the com- driving the price up until with- quest adventure experiences such pany’s distinctive brand and the in- drawing in April from further bid- as MagiQuest. comparable experience Great Wolf ding. •www.greatwolf.com offers to its millions of customers.” Looking for a part? E-mail us! Email: [email protected]

NORTH AMERICAN PARTS, INC. (716) 839-4791 x101 34 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012 U.K.’s Legoland Windsor Resort adds themed hotel STORY: Andrew Mellor COMPILED: Scott Rutherford, to the bedrooms where the [email protected] [email protected] theming truly kicks in – from UNITED KINGDOM — the wallpaper and carpets to is underway on host- annual About.com Readers’ Choice Awards A new, 150-room hotel has the door numbers and Do Not ing Star Wars Weekends, an annual special named Kennywood Holiday Lights the Best opened at the Legoland Wind- Disturb signs. Once in a room, event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme Theme Park Holiday Event of 2011. In addi- sor Resort, located close to a special code can be found park that celebrates the Star Wars saga. On tion, NAPHA released the results of its 26th London in the U.K. hidden in the carpets and Friday, Saturday and Sunday of each week- Annual NAPHA Amusement Park and Attrac- Situated on a lakeside area room features that will open end May 18 through June 10, park guests tions Survey and named Kennywood as Fa- right on the edge of the park, a safe containing a Lego gift can join celebrities and characters for special vorite Traditional Amusement Park. the hotel features a bright, and, be it a Pirates, Kingdom shows, panels and presentations. • playful exterior with Lego or Adventure themed room, • Park Inn by Radisson, Abu Dhabi Yas blues, reds and yellows, flags parents and children get their For the second year in a row, Kings Do- Island has announced its latest hotel pack- flying from the roof and a gi- own sleeping areas. minion hosted the 18th Annual Rescue Chal- age, which includes admission for two to ant clock tower inhabited by The hotel also features the lenge, nine teams, from all over Virginia and nearby Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. The pack- a large, six meter (19.6 foot), Lego Pirates themed splash Maryland, recently spent a day at the park age also includes one night’s stay at the ho- smoke-breathing Lego dragon pool, featuring a Lego pirate using the facility to perform high-technical tel and breakfast the following morning. which welcomes guests out- ship and a host of water based training, including high angle rope rescues • side the main entrance. features and activities, while on the Anaconda and roller coasters. Connecticut’s Seaport and Mys- The reception area fea- Brick’s Restaurant provides • tic Aquarium are seeking zoning approvals tures an impressive floor to the opportunity to refuel. The and Children’s for two major $1.2 million building projects, ceiling, rotating Lego toy box, Skyline Bar allows adults to Healthcare of are partnering up to while Seaport Marine at the foot of Washing- full of Lego models explod- relax after a day in the park, challenge adrenaline-junkies everywhere to ton Street wants to construct a store and res- ing out of it, while at a child while youngsters can enjoy a raise money during the first-ever Children’s taurant with outdoor seating overlooking the friendly level sensors allow magical stage and play area in Coasterthon. This coaster marathon will take Mystic River. The Seaport is seeking to revise smaller guests to activate a which they can climb a castle place on the Great American Ma- its Marine Heritage District master plan to range of noises. At the top of turret complete with Lego chine - the theme park’s classic wooden roller allow construction of a 20,000-square-foot the mobile giant models re- princess and noisy ogre. On coaster on June 8. The top overall fundraiser exhibit building on the north end of the mu- flecting key attractions at the selected evenings, a mini-dis- will receive a trip to Six Flags Great America seum grounds overlooking Anchor Square. park are suspended, while the co featuring Lego characters is to take on their newest coaster: X Flight. • reception area itself houses a also held. • Six Flags Over Georgia and Kroger have wall made entirely out of 6,000 The latest addition to the The oldest living animal at Florida’s Silver announced a joint partnership giving Kroger Lego mini figures. offering at Legoland Windsor Springs Nature’s Theme Park was recently shoppers the opportunity to purchase dis- But that’s just the start of incorporates 1,600 Lego mod- found dead in his pen. Known as “Frank The counted admission tickets to Six Flags Over the experience. Lego themed els and over 15 million Lego Tank,” the Aldabras tortise weighed 660 Georgia and . Six lifts and corridors lead guests bricks were used in the build. pounds and was over 100 years old. The Flags tickets are available for purchase at any cause of death is being attributed to age. of the 215 participating Kroger stores cov- • ering Georgia, Eastern Tennessee, Alabama Ripley Entertainment Inc., has acquired and South Carolina. its Believe It or Not! Odditorium and the • Ripley 3-D Moving Theater franchise in The Animal Care Center, the newest ad- Panama City Beach, Fla. from long-time fran- dition to the Zoo & PPG Aquar- chisee, Nole One, LLC. ium, recently opened its doors to the zoo’s • sick and injured animals. The medical area The United States’ first Legoland Hotel of the building is closed to visitors, but zoo is under construction at . officials announced that a public interac- The three-story, 250-room Legoland Hotel is tive learning area is in the works and set to being designed to give guests the interac- open in 2013. The two-story, 22,000-square- tive family experience that has brought suc- foot care center has a hospital on the base- cess to Legoland California, Sea Life Carls- ment level, including digital radiology and bad Aquarium and Legoland Water Park. ultrasound equipment; new technology that • allows pictures to be e-mailed to other vet- Walt Disney Imagineers have designed erinarians for a better diagnosis; a pool for The Golden Oak, a luxury residential resort aquatic animals; a hydraulic table for proce- community in Orlando named after Walt Dis- dures to better handle larger animals; and in- ney’s Golden Oak Ranch in California. The dividual holding cages with controlled tem- custom homes are priced between $1.5 mil- peratures and access to outside areas. lion and $8 million. Ultimately, Disney plans • to build 450 homes and a 445-room Four Amanda Thompson, managing direc- Seasons hotel at the location. Homeown- tor of Pleasure Beach, , has been ers will have full access to the Disney theme awarded an OBE for services to the amuse- parks, as well as resident-only facilities, in- ment industry. She is the fourth generation of cluding private VIP tours of the parks, holi- her family to run the popular attraction that day home decorating, grocery delivery, an welcomes thousands of visitors every year. on-call concierge service, a yoga studio, a • fitness facility, and a full-service spa. Disney’s Hollywood Studios will soon • be home to an attraction based on the four Kennywood Park recently received top Pirates of the Caribbean movies, starring honors in two notable surveys from About.com Johnny Depp. Opening this fall, the new of- The new hotel at Legoland Windsor Resort provides a fully Readers’ Choice Awards and the National fering will be located where the “Journey to themed Lego experience from the moment guests arrive to Amusement Park Historical Association’s Narnia: Prince Caspian” attraction resided the time guests enter their rooms. COURTESY LEGOLAND WINDSOR RESORT Amusement Park and Attractions survey. The until Sept. 2011. June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 35 Magic Memories Fresh Look — IAAPA: Philly Pretzel Factory establishes STORY: Tim Baldwin partnership for [email protected] FINAL IN A SERIES China expansion ORLANDO, Fla. — Fresh feels people love pretzels Look is an Amusement To- and that his company has a CHINA — Magic Memo- day feature that spotlights really unique product. “Most ries the tourism photography first time exhibitors at the people outside the Philadel- experience company, launched recent IAAPA trade show. phia area have never had a its photography solutions at AT sought out new and en- ‘real Philly’ pretzel before,” Shanghai Chang Feng Ocean gaging vendors that may not he says. Following IAAPA, World at the beginning of 2012, have caught the eye of ev- Ferrill had this to share: integrating services and prod- eryone attending the expo. How was your first ucts seamlessly into the guest IAAPA experience? experience. The initial results What is it? As a first time exhibi- have exceeded expectations Philly Pretzel Factory is tor, we were able to talk to with the guests generally excit- a homemade hand-twisted many key decision makers ed about the new photography solution. pretzel created fresh in the throughout the show. On a Martin Ferrill - President, Philly Pretzel Factory parks and venues. daily basis we were able to Shanghai Chang Feng What made AT take no- talk with hundreds of people you should bring samples of Trans fats. Ocean World is China’s first tice? interested in putting pretzels your product. We were able What is your biggest large scale aquarium and is the If the aroma alone didn’t into their facility. to twist and bake fresh pret- success story from the flagship tourist attraction of the Oceanis Australia Group. draw you in, the throngs of Did the show meet your zels on the premises. The show? Shanghai Ocean World is the people clamoring to get a expectations? ability to hand out a sample The biggest success is only aquarium in China which sample would pique your in- The IAAPA show abso- was what got people inter- the number of contacts and combines marine sightseeing terest. Size-wise, these were lutely exceeded my expecta- ested in the product. friends that we made at the with ecological leisure and has the biggest samples of any- tions. What does your prod- show. The show really allows some amazing exhibits which Did you learn some- thing to be enjoyed at the uct bring to the industry? you to meet all the key peo- are reflected in the photobooks IAAPA expo. thing from the experience, Our recipe and formula ple in the amusement park Magic Memories provides. or would you have advice is different from a traditional industry. We are opening a The partnership with busi- Amusement Today for future first-time exhibi- mall pretzel or a frozen pret- store at Dorney Park in Allen- nessman Thomas Lu, gives caught up with Martin Fer- tors? zel. Our traditional pretzels town, Pennsylania as a result Magic Memories a strong stake rill, president of Philly Pretzel I think the biggest thing I are fat and cholesterol free of the show. in China and expects huge Factory at the show. Ferrill learned as a food company is and contain zero grams of •phillypretzelfactory.com growth in the market over the next year. 36 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012 Bob Coil, previous owner of Dartron Industries, dies at 69 SALEM, Ore. — James ding. I am just heart broken “It was when the Show- ed to buy a ride, to write what Robert Coil, 69 years old, for Wanda, because they were men’s League’s tabletop trade they wanted on the clipboard of Bend, Ore., and previous truly still in love.” show would go into the eve- and put a deposit it the piggy owner of Dartron Industries, Burum recalled an in- ning,” Burum said. “Bob and bank. Salem, Ore., died April 19 cident from years ago that Wanda were there with a table “I’m not sure they really while in Orvieto, , on a took place during one of the for Dartron Industries. Wan- sold any rides that evening, three-week vacation with his Showmen’s League’s annual da decided she wanted to go but it just demonstrates what wife, Wanda. conferences in Las Vegas. The dancing. So, they left and went type of person he was,” he “Bob and Wanda were League’s event includes a ta- out onto the dance floor. They said. “He was good at busi- very dear friends of mine and bletop trade show, with dates left a sign that said something ness and serious about busi- my wife, Melissa,” said Joe coinciding with the Interna- like they had decided to go ness, but, at the end of the Burum, executive director, tional Association of and dancing. They left a clipboard day, his family was what was Bob Coil (1942-2012) Showmen’s League of Amer- Expositions annual conven- and piggy bank on the table. important to him.” ica. “They were at our wed- tion and trade show. The sign said if anyone want- According to the obituary that ran in the local newspa- per in Oregon, Bob was born in Miami, Arizona, on August 3, 1942. He grew up in an Ari- zona mining town where his father, Benjamin R. Coil, was general manager of the Miami Copper Company. His moth- er, Margaret, was a nurse. In high school, he was captain of the baseball and football teams and won all-conference honors. He received a B.S. de- gree from the University of Arizona, where he majored in economics and was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fra- ternity. He earned a masters degree from the Thunderbird School of Global Manage- ment. In , he was an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving with distinc- tion. That obituary also stated: “During his business career, he and his family lived in many places, including Mex- ico City, Ohio, and Texas, be- fore moving to Bend, Oregon, where he lived for 24 years. Until recently he owned Dar- tron Industries, a manufac- turing company in Salem, Oregon, which designed and manufactured amusement park rides. “An avid sportsman, Bob enjoyed skiing, racquetball, hiking, kayaking, golf, and bi- cycling. The upcoming Mas- ters Road National Cham- pionship in cycling inspired his latest training regimen. He followed all Pac-12 sports with enthusiasm. Bob and Wanda traveled throughout the world on hiking, kayaking and snorkeling adventures. “He will be greatly missed by his wife, Wanda, to whom he was married for 37 years; son, Darren of Berkeley, Calif., and two grandchildren, Hailey and Kaleb; and daugh- ter, Alison and her husband, Jacob Bruce of .” A memorial gathering for close friends and family was held May 5, at the Bend Golf & Country Club. June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 37 Schlitterbahn, industry remembers Sherrie Brammall, 63

CANYON LAKE, Texas question, would you be inter- Terri Adams, COO Schlitterbahn Waterparks — Sherrie Brammall, former ested in taking over my posi- public relations and market- tion at Schlitterbahn water- shares her thoughts on Sherrie Brammall ing guru for the Schlitter- parks. How could I say no to The beginning: Sherrie originally worked for us writing bahn Waterpark Resort and that? I will forever eternally copy and travel writing. She had worked in another indus- NBGS International in New be grateful to Sherrie,” Siebert try, but quickly got the bug for travel and all things Schlit- Braunfels, Texas died sudden- said. terbahn — she understood the power of relationships, and ly at the age of 63. One project Sherrie be- the power of grassroots organizations affecting legislation. A graduate of Ohio Uni- came involved in was the push On the Texas school year effort: We were working versity, Brammall was a suc- in the mid to late ‘90s and into with Bruce Neal, Bob Bennett and Larry Cochran, all with cessful journalist who served the new millennium to get the Six Flags. I distinctly remember getting up in front of a as director of communications Texas school districts to push group at a Texas Travel Industry Association meeting 15 at Schilitterbahn Waterparks the start of the school calendar years ago or so — Sherrie had talked them into doing a for many years helping to back to a late August opening. breakout session on school calendar issues, which we could build its reputation to nation- The original statewide not get anyone interested in, and the room was so full they al and international stature. push called “Texans for a Tra- had to open up another room. I made my presentation, She was an active volun- ditional School Year” had the while Sherrie stood in the back and collected names to find teer with IAAPA (The Interna- Sherrie Brammall support of every major and folks to start a coalition and help us get the calendar issue tional Association of Amuse- 1949-2012 family-owned amusement a priority. Needless to say, it became a priority. ment Parks and Attractions) facility in the State of Texas. Schlitterbahn ‘donated’ 20 percent of Sherrie’s profes- and served on both the Com- Overseen at the time by Bruce sional time and our offices to work on the calendar issue. munications and Government Neal of Six Flags Over Texas, She really believed in the issue, but was always a behind Relations committees. Most Sherrie became one of the the scenes lady. recently she was the producer leading members to keep the On her role at Schlitterbahn: That was Sherrie — she of IAAPA’s “News Flash,” a campaign alive following his worked tirelessly and with professional conviction behind daily online newsletter. death. Along with the help the scenes making whatever she was working for the abso- Brammall was a passion- of Tina Burno, and so many lute best it could be. She NEVER wanted to be out front — ate master gardener who cre- others, Sherrie saw the Texas but made sure that whoever the face of Schlitterbahn was ated stunning gardens and parks get what they badly looked the part, was well prepared, and then she would appreciated the beauty in all needed, a late August start hover and make sure. people and things. date for the school year. Sherrie was instrumental in getting the NBC Today Schlitterbahn’s COO Terri No one knows those ef- show here when we opened Surfenburg — she so enjoyed Adams said the team often re- forts better than Paul L. Serff, the company of Tim Baldwin and Gary Slade — that they ferred to Sherrie as their own president emeritus, Texas could help us get Schlitterbahn more well known was, I “Pollyanna” because of her Travel Industry Association in think, the icing on the cake for Sherrie. Ultimately, Sherrie unfailing positive outlook. Austin, Texas who said: “Sher- made me appreciate the great intrinsic value of Schlitter- Taking that a step further, rie was the glue that helped bahn as a brand. Adams said this literature manage the later school start Sherrie followed through on whatever she did. If she description of pollyanna best effort in Texas. She helped said she was going to get the calendar changed, by golly describes Sherrie: “Pollyanna push the issue forward while she did, but with such finesse, she made you think you did has a sunny and irresistible at the same time, making sure it. She was never satisfied with anything less than excellent. personality and through in- bers serving IAAPA’s commu- the facts told the story. She Her iron gentleness guiding us to excellence was almost telligent dialogue, optimistic nications team. We instantly had an amazing way of doing unnoticed by some. attitude and an irrepressible hit it off. Sherrie was one of the right thing the right way- Final thoughts: Sherrie gave me wise and wonderful enthusiasm for life she man- those people that from the always taking the high road. advice on many life moments as a professional, and as a ages to reshape and redesign day you meet, you feel like She was a great asset to the wife, mother, and sister. Ultimately, I am certain that I am a the lives of the people around you’ve known forever. She industry and I was honored to better person because of Sherrie. her as the aunt and other cyni- was smart, warm, compas- call her a friend.” To this day, when tough decisions are at hand, many of cal people soon fall under her sionate and knew inherently The fun side of Sherrie our team reflect and ask, what would Sherrie say… upbeat charm.” what needed to be done.” didn’t go unnoticed either. Forever, she will be a measure of how to say and do the Jeffrey A. Siebert, Schlit- “During the summer of Amusement Today Publisher right thing....what better legacy could there be? terbahn director of communi- 2005 I received a call from Gary Slade said, “I remember cation said, “I have so much Sherrie at my Paramount’s the first time I rode the ply- —Terri Adams to be thankful for because of Kings Island office. We were wood prototype for the Mas- Sherrie. We first met when we chatting for a while and catch- ter Blaster. I knew Schlitter- that included the launch of ex- down, especially following both were committee mem- ing up, when she popped the bahn had a slide that would clusive slide time. Sherrie and the death of my dear friend change the waterpark indus- the Schlitterbahn team led the Bruce Neal.” try forever. Shortly after the Master Blasters to win count- Sherrie was the loving finished product opened, I less awards including a repeat and devoted wife of 42 years was right. It was an instant Golden Ticket winner.” to Shawn, mother of Shane hit. Sherrie and I had many Slade continued saying, (Jennie) and Ian (Evin), and conservations about how she “Texas and our industry have loving grandmother to Ma- could build excitement about lost another truly great posi- son, Finnegan and Marilyn their new prize ride. Since tive promoter of our industry. Brammall. She is also sur- they were already marketing I’m thankful I got to spend the vived by her mother, Mari- it as roller coaster on water, time I did with Sherrie and lyn Tompkins; sister, Gay I told her to try and get the learn from her. Most of all, I’ll Kaminski; brothers, Douglas coaster community to em- remember the support and en- Tompkins, Jack Tompkins and brace the ride. If the coaster couragment she provided in Todd Tompkins. She was pre- fans loved it, your marketing those early years when I had ceded in death by her father, From l to r: Schlitterbahn’s Jeff Henry, Sherrie Brammall and would take care of itself. As just started Amusement To- Jack W. Tompkins and broth- Mike Jaroszewski seen during the construction of the first a result, the park has hosted day. She was always there to ers Mike Tompkins and David Master Blaster in 1994. AT FILE countless events for their fans pick me back up when I was Tompkins. 38 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012

www.aimsintl.org

Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers International, Ltd. • 3026 S. Orange • Santa Ana, Calif. 92707 Phone: (714) 425-5747 • Fax: (714) 276-9666 • E-mail: [email protected] • Web: www.aimsintl.org In search of one great question Roger Berry has just established the energy this many passionate attendees for each class that they are going First vice president for the entire class. Finding this can sometimes be a challenge. to take. These questions should AIMS board of directors spot can be difficult, but partici- Networking events always seem not be just busy work but rather pation in class discussions makes to be a perfect venue for the one reflect things that they would like For many years I have attend- you think and gets the neurons great question test. Generally to find the answer to. ed the AIMS Safety Seminar as flowing. This moment is what I these networking events spawn Preparation for the AIMS an instructor. Organizing my pre- come back for every year. casual roundtable discussions Safety Seminar is not just limited sentation has never The Webster dictionary de- on a variety of topics, with help- to the organization making the really been a prob- fines participation as: “to take, or ful tips, and suggestions. So be presentation or the different in- lem it seems. The to have a part, as with others.” prepared for ideas on product structors, preparation is also the basics, what’s new, Participation and sharing are form, fit, and function. Invariably, responsibility of the student. The and industry trends the most important aspects of as a company we bring changes AIMS Safety Seminar is a multi- seem to dictate the the seminar experience. Vendors, to products, and introduce new national melting pot of informa- path. What has al- Berry suppliers, consultants, engineers, products as a result of the semi- tion all available for the sharing. ways been a chal- regulators, inspectors all come nar. It is an event centered around ed- lenge is finding that one great together to share their expertise The magic of one great ques- ucation, safety, sharing, and par- question that will stimulate the and offer a helping hand. We tion is that you never know who ticipation. It can be a life chang- class. are all fully prepared to assist in will ask it, or if it will manifest it- ing event. By the way, I have been Every class every year there is sending our students back to the self from a series of thoughts. As to 17 of the seminars and I‘m still one great question that amazing- work place further committed as the instructor I try to always be searching for that one great ques- ly electrifies and evokes relaxed a safety professional. I have been the bearer of the magic, but am tion, so come prepared, you may participation by the students. told so many stories of individu- always elated when it occurs from just have that one great question, Suddenly examples and opinions als returning back to work with the students. As you prepare your that question that sparks conver- abound, we’ve just found the renewed vigor and commitment. staff for the seminar, please ask sation and brings out facts that sweet spot. That one question Keeping on your toes with them to make a list of questions may benefit more than just you. AIMS member spotlight: Craig Koenig Editors note: This is a series of ar- It was the year 2000 and I was through the entire length of a parade. the AIMS Safety Seminar? ticles to run in AIMS News & Notes that working for an outside contractor. I Yes, I can still jump on a pogo stick. There are lots of reasons to at- spotlight an AIMS member who has been was managing the fiberglass crew What is so special about the fa- tend the AIMS Safety Seminar but active in the annual AIMS Safety Seminar. that was assembling the Zoombabwe cility for which you work? the most obvious reason is the net- To suggest a future spotlight on an AIMS for Splashin’ Safari Water Park. The It’s Holiday World, need I say working. Networking is a must if you member contact Steve Laycock at: Zoombabwe is the largest enclosed more? want to be a successful leader. AIMS [email protected] waterslide in the world. How long have you worked at affords you the time for this most im- What did you do before you your present facility? portant activity; AIMS will meet your Craig Koenig were in the amusement business? I have been at Holiday World full needs. Holiday World I was in quality control for a local time now for 10 years, five as a car- In general, how was your over- & Splashin’ Safari construction company in south cen- penter and five as director of safety. I all experience at the AIMS Safety Director of Safety tral Indiana. also spent one season working in the Seminar and how prepared were What do you do in your free games department. your instructors? Craig Koenig time? Tell us one thing you have The 2011 AIMS Safety Seminar who serves Holiday Koenig I am a big practical joker so I am learned from the AIMS Safety Sem- raised the bar in the quality category. World and Splashin’ always trying to come up with ways inar. Every class was busting with informa- Safari as their director of safety was to out smart my kids, looking for the One thing I have learned from tion, passion, and excitement. This is voted Best Student of the Year at next good April Fools Day joke, and the seminar is everyone there works one seminar I am glad I didn’t miss. the 2011 AIMS safety seminar this just trying to make people laugh by together to come up with ways to im- The class content and the instructors past November in Orlando. It was being the comic relief. Also, you prove not only their own facility but were great. his outgoing personality, networking don’t want to be around me when I the industry as a whole. Tell us one person you have met skills, and personal interaction within see a VW bug because I am always What was your favorite class at here during a networking opportu- the classroom along with his work quick with a punch for the “Punch the AIMS Safety Seminar and why? nity time that has made an impact motto/goal “to make safety fun” that Bugging” game which never gets Survivor Tools for Coaching Your on you and why. helped lead him to this honor. With old. Team was my favorite class this year. The person who has made the all of that, Craig still took time to an- Tell us something about your- This class, more than any other I have biggest impact on me was Matt Hell- swer some questions for AIMS News self that is not commonly known by been to, was so full of enthusiasm er. Matt is a performance optimist & Notes. your amusement industry peers. and interaction. consultant. Matt always sees his glass I once jumped on a pogo stick Why should someone attend as half full and he is always willing and How did you get started in the dressed as a clown showing off a training seminar and particularly ready to help fill another’s glass. amusement business?

Space for this AIMS page is provided courtesy of Amusement Today as a corporate partner of AIMS Intl. Content is provided by AT & AIMS. Please direct comments to [email protected] June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39 Gateway Ticketing introduces eGalaxy ASTM launches Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity Mobile Web Store W. CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. — Re- their customers regarding conforming their products, accredited labs and the sponding to increasing requests from to ASTM test methods. Product test re- ASTM test methods. Once accepted by BOYERTOWN, Pa. — suppliers and their customers, ASTM sults will be registered with ASTM, and ASTM, the supplier can provide the doc- Gateway Ticketing Systems, International has developed a new pro- supporting documentation will show the umentation or request ASTM to provide Inc.’s newly-released eGal- gram, Supplier’s Declaration of Confor- supplier’s registration and acceptance documentation to their customers. axy Mobile Web Store helps mity. Launched in April 2012, this latest by an independent third party. “Quality, safety and precision are the customers improve opera- offering is an outgrowth of ASTM’s certi- Sponsored and administered by hallmarks of ASTM test methods. Docu- fication programs. ASTM International, the new program is mentation supporting conformance tions and efficiency while Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity available to any supplier, manufacturer, to ASTM test methods will reinforce a increasing sales. Consumers provides manufacturers, purchasers and distributor or private brand owner. In a supplier’s credibility as well as enhance expect to be able to use their consumers with a useful and needed typical scenario, suppliers having prod- regulatory, marketing and sales efforts,” mobile devices for day-to- tool. A major benefit to suppliers will ucts tested to ASTM test methods will explains Ken Pearson, senior vice presi- day activities and ticketing be the evidence that they can offer register specific information regarding dent, operations, at ASTM International. is no different. The eGalaxy Mobile Web Store meets that expectation and en- ables Gateway customers to configure products targeted specifically toward mobile consumers. The convenience of the Mobile Web Store en- courages guests to use their phones to make purchases en route or on arrival to avoid lines. Guests can also order additional event tickets from inside the attraction without returning to the gate. Some companies in the attraction and entertainment industries anticipate that by 2013, up to half of the traffic to their websites will be from mobile devices. “Gateway is excited to be able to respond to customer demand for a mobile phone ticketing mod- ule that functions as a fully integrated sales channel with their existing Galaxy sys- tem.” said Gateway Ticket- ing Systems Director of Sales and Marketing, Michael Fur- man. For guests, the eGalaxy Mobile Web Store solution means no ticket lines, a more convenient purchasing op- tion and no lost tickets—if a guest has their phone, they have their tickets. For the at- tractions industry, the mobile web store means less ticket stock and smoother opera- tions. Gateway Product So- lutions Manager, Marcus Lo- pez, added, “We’ve made the eGalaxy Mobile web Store as convenient as possible by making this a web applica- tion. That means there’s no app to download to your phone. Our solution will work on the iPhone, Android devices, Blackberry phones – really, any device with a Web browser and an internet con- nection. We wanted to make sure our customers could reach the widest audience possible.” 40 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012

Region As of Change from MARKETWATCH (U.S.) 05/14/12 year ago East Coast $4.054 $-0.021 Prices Prices 52 Weeks Midwest $3.969 $-0.036 RIDING THE Company One Month Ago 05/17/12 High Low MARKET Gulf Coast $3.915 $-0.081 Cedar Fair L.P. $28.97 $26.84 $31.74 $16.34 Mountain $4.004 $-0.130 MGM Mirage $13.86 $10.40 $16.05 $7.40 West Coast $4.277 N/A FUEL PRICES Six Flags Ent. Corp. $45.04 $44.48 $49.04 $24.72 California $4.349 $-0.022 CBS Corp. $32.18 $30.02 $35.00 $17.99 TOP 7 MOST TRADED On 05/17/12 $1 USD = Walt Disney Co. $42.15 $44.33 $45.80 $28.19 CURRENCIES 0.7858 EURO Apollo Global Mgt. LLC $13.51 $10.76 $18.49 $8.85 0.6269 GBP (British Pound) Blackstone Group $14.79 $11.54 $17.78 $10.51 80.3449 JPY (Japanese Yen) Village Roadshow $3.25 $3.15 $4.15 $2.41 0.9438 CHF (Swiss Franc) 1.0076 AUD (Australian Dollar) NBC Universal $19.30 $18.88 $21.00 $14.02 CURRENCY 1.0092 CAD (Canadian Dollar)

Baynum Painting completes work on PEOPLE WATCH THROUGH THE Jerry Richard named to finance post at ESE CAMERA LENS for Wayne McCary, president and CEO of East- ern States Exposition (ESE) announces the appoint- ment of Jerry Richard to the position of director of finance at the West Springfield, Mass., facility. Richard joined ESE as finance assistant in 2002 and was promoted to controller in 2011. He as- sumed the director of finance position March 28, 2012. Richard He is responsible for the financial manage- ment, accounting procedures and operating budget for ESE as well as ticket inventory, management of online concert ticket sales, the box office, print shop and telephone systems. During the fair, he will also oversee the admissions department, managing all gate ticket and photo ID operations. ESE is home of The Big E, the eighth largest fair in North Amer- ica, which takes place September 14-30, 2012, and 120 year-round Valerio Ferrari (Zamperla shows and events, Storrowton Village and Storrowton Tavern. USE and CAI Amusements) was spotted recently at Co- Schlitterbahn’s Chris Ozimek receives award ney Island taking time out Schlitterbahn’s own Chris Ozimek received of his day to help clean up the Excellence in Hospitality Award presented dur- the Coney Island board- ing the Kansas City Kansas Convention & Visitors walk from graffiti one brush Bureau annual Tourism Celebration on May 2. stroke at a time. Congratula- The Excellence in Hospitality Award, given by tions to Valerio for rolling up the staff of the Kansas City Kansas Convention & his sleeves (yes, his sleeves Visitors Bureau, recognized Chris for his ongoing are rolled up) to help clean support and partnership with the KCK CVB as well Baynum Painting has been hard at work during the off- Ozimek up the area he has helped season getting Six Flags New England’s new Goliath as his continual involvement with the entire KC bring life and fun back too. tourism region. roller coaster ready for it’s 2012 launch (May 25). The Ve- COURTESY ZAMPERLA koma Giant Inverted Boomerang roller coaster (relocated from Six Flags Magic Mountain) reaches nearly 200 feet Tracy Sarris named to post at Alpha-Omega high on both of it’s towers, and has several inversions Frank Seninsky, president/CEO of Amusement Entertainment and loops along it’s 1,204 feet of track. Baynum Painting Management (AEM) and Alpha-Omega Amusements & Sales, an- needed approximately three months to prep and apply nounced that Tracy Sarris, director of marketing and communica- the ride’s glossy new paint job, using Sherwin Williams’ tions for the Alpha-Omega Group of companies, was promoted to Corothane in order to get the best possible finish dur- the position of chief marketing officer. ing New England’s cold, wet winter weather. Some of the “Ms. Sarris will be responsible for the development of promo- tional strategies and plans for our respective companies,” said Sen- work was accessible via boom-lift, but most of it required insky. “This will include generating and maintaining public interest in special rigging and good old fashioned climbing to reach. the company’s services and products, while overseeing the day-to- COURTESY BAYNUM PAINTING day marketing operations. ”

Knoebels Amusement Re- sort kicked off its 2012 sea- son on April 28 with a party. The opening day also hap- pened to be Dick Knoebel’s 73 birthday. So how did Dick celebrate? By selling hand- stamps! We were told that Dick did manage to enjoy the day and shared birthday cake with friends. AT/B. DEREK SHAW June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 41 MIDWAY CARNIVALS STATE FAIRS REVENUE SUPPLIERS Showman’s League plans big 2013 while getting word out in 2012 Reporter’s STORY: Pam Sherborne [email protected]

Notebook CHICAGO, Ill. — Plans by Show- Georgia State Fair men’s League of America members are already underway for the organiza- draws 40,000 tion’s centennial celebration in 2013. “We have a lot going on right now MACON, Ga. — The Geor- with the Showmen’s League,” said gia State Fair, Macon, drew Joe Burum, executive secretary. “Sam 40,000 people during its 2012 Johnston, our president this year, run April 27-May 6, and even is dedicated to getting the word out though that was up 5,000 from about the Showmen’s League. He will 2011, it missed the hoped for be traveling to carnivals and getting expectation by 10,000. them reacquainted. “Our incoming president, Chris Mark Lovell, president and Sam Johnston, Joe Burum, Atkins, and Sam are already looking CEO of Universal Fairs, of Mem- current SLA president SLA executive secretary phis, Tenn., the company that at plans for next year and how we will purchased the Georgia State celebrate the centennial year,” Burum Fair from the Macon Exchange said. “And, here in Chicago, we have Club last November, told local been in our new building for a little reporters he was grateful for while now and things are going great. the 40,000 that turned out. He We have rented out some office space feels it is just a stepping-stone upstairs to Vince Pagone (managing to bring the fair back to what it director) of the Illinois Chapter of Va- used to be. riety International.” Marketing efforts were Variety the Children’s Charity is an strong, Lovell said in a local international organization dedicated news report, but high tempera- to promoting and protecting the health tures and competition from the and well being of children around the air show at Robins Air Force world. The organization often hires Base worked against them. carnival for fundraising events. Dixieland Carnival, based in Plus, Burum said a Green Line Phenix City, Ala., provided the (Chicago’s public transportation) train midway. station is set to open in the near future close to the SLA offices at 1023 W. Ful- ton Market. That will make access to the club much easier for members. Quoted Johnston, a long-time industry vet- “It tipped the eran, founded Midways of Fun that he owned until 2002, selling much of his wheel straight Chris Atkins and wife Kristen will have a busy 2013. Not only will Chris Atkins equipment then to Harry Mason, who be at the helm of the Showmen’s League of America for that organization’s onto its side.” has retained the name Midways of centennial year, but the two will also have a young son. Kristen Atkins is Fun. He now owns Funderland Park, expected to deliver the couple’s first child this summer. Chris Atkins travels —Danny Ottaway, Ottaway Sacramento, Calif., a kiddie amuse- with both Thomas Carnival, his family’s show business, as well with Luehrs’ Amusements, said on the ment park with about nine rides, said Ideal Rides, his wife’s family show business. COURTESY CHRIS ATKINS damage caused to his show by a he already has visited some carnivals EF3 that touched down in the 2012 season and is putting to- those of the carnival industry about the hours about him alone,” he said. “We in Wichita, Kansas on April 15 gether a route for the remainder of the Showmen’s League. have a lot of colorful characters in our season. He has been surprised at the “I have told them about our background. Plus, some people are lack of knowledge he has seen among founder Buffalo Bill and I can talk two 4See SLA, page 42 Factory wholesale pricing! • Over 100 designs available! • Made in the USA

Toll Free: (800) 395-9980 • email: [email protected] • www.sippersbydesign.com 42 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012 Indiana State Fair announces key management changes INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The Indiana State Fair dozens more. believe Hummel was forced out. But she also said all Commission in Indianapolis announced last month Those consultants found that the stage rigging of the organizational changes came in response to the management changes spurred by last summer’s that toppled onto a crowd awaiting a concert by the investigations of the accident. deadly stage rigging collapse, including the retire- country duo Sugarland didn’t meet industry safety Officials also announced last month that David ment of a longtime employee who was noted in a standards and that the fair’s emergency plan was in- Shaw was to have started work on May 21 as chief report about the accident. adequate and resulted in confusion about who was operating officer for the fairgrounds, overseeing day- The other moves include the hiring of a new in charge. to-day operations. Shaw told reporters his “job one” chief operating officer and a new director of safety Officials quietly announced the retirement of fair- would be to “go to school” on consultants’ reports and security for the fairgrounds, according to an grounds facilities manager Dave Hummel, who was that recommended ways to improve safety at the fair. Associated Press news report in SouthBendTribune. noted in a report that criticized confusion among fair The 2012 Indiana State Fair will run Aug. 3-19. com. The changes follow the commission members’ officials over their responsibilities. A news release North American Midway Entertainment, based in vote in April to make management changes recom- said Hummel’s retirement was “part of restructuring Farmland, Ind., will provide the midway. mended by consultants who investigated the Aug. state fair staff.” —Pam Sherborne 13, 2011, disaster that killed seven people and injured McFarland said in the news report that she didn’t KMG debuts its first green ride to much success SLA — In Continued from page 41 April, Netherlands-based confused about what we do. KMG delivered its first brand Some people think we are the new ride, the XLR8, to Jarno OABA (Outdoor Amusement Otten, who was debuting Business Association). the ride at the Easter Fair in “We aren’t the OABA,” Drachten, Netherlands. he said. “The OABA has a dif- According to KMG’s Pe- ferent function. We really are is married to Tom Hanschen. ter Theunisz, sales manag- not an association. We are a Both families operate the er, the ride arrived just the fraternal organization. We are show. night before the opening together for fun and enjoy- Chris Atkins is married day of the Easter event. But, ment. We gave away $34,000 to Kristin Clair Atkins. Her because of its easy set-up in scholarships last year and parents are Jean Anne and Joe system, the XLR8 was ready we have an annual Christmas Clair, Luehr’s Ideal Rides. to go a few hours before the party for special needs chil- “And, we are expecting opening. dren in the community.” our first child in July,” Chris The XLR8 is the very first Johnston said the SLA Atkins said. “It is a boy.” transportable amusement has put together a long-range Atkins said they were re- ride with a self-controlled planning committee. One ally in the middle of the plan- “rechargeable” power sys- thing that committee has been ning stages for the centen- tem. This power system working on is updating the nial celebration next year. He will help to meet the de- SLA’s bylaws, which were put didn’t really want to release mand for power in order to together many years ago. details until it has all been achieve the expected accel- “There is one part that ironed out. eration. says everyone will be noti- “We really are trying to get During deceleration, fied by telegraph,” Johnston the word out about the SLA,” the returned energy will said, with a chuckle. “Well, we Atkins said. “We want people be stored in built-in Super would like to change that.” to know what we are about. Caps (capacitors), so the Johnson said he has more There are so many people now XLR8 can use its own gener- time this year to dedicate to who don’t know who we are ated power time after time. league efforts since his daugh- or what we do. When you get This way the prototype can ter, Ashley Johnston Edds, into the fair boards, some of be connected to a 63 amp and her husband, John Edds, them have never heard of us. and will use 80 amps to- are pretty much running his We want to change that. I am gether with all LEDs instead park now. very excited.” of 400 amps. Chris Atkins is a fourth Atkins said he has felt a Theunisz said this is “the generation carnival industry part of the SLA for a very long world’s first green ride.” KMG’s new XLR8 ride is being touted as a green ride veteran. His father, Tom At- time. He remembers when his The XLR8 was set up in thanks to its self-controlled rechargeable power system. COURTESY KMG kins, is currently the president dad was president in the late Velp, near Nijmegen, from and CEO of Thomas Carnivals 1980s. April 11-15. After that the Rotterdam from April 21- ceived among fairgoers and Inc., Austin, Texas. His moth- “I think I was in junior ride played at the major May 6. potential buyers, Theunisz er, Margaret, is the daughter high school,” he said. “I went Queen’s Birthday Fair of It has been very well re- said. of Bernard Thomas. Her sister, to Vegas with him. It was very Carolyn Thomas Hanschen, fun.” We Finance everything but the smiles on the midWay Prairie Financial Helping show folks grow their businesses since 2000

Paul Muller [email protected] Mark Walker A division of Wade Muller [email protected] prairiefinancialinc.com [email protected] 816-554-3863 June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 43 PBJ Happee Days seeing success with rethemed MARION, Ark. — So far, the end of May. so good, is what Pam Casper, “My husband (Tim PBJ Happee Days Shows, Casper) is flying to Denver, based in Marion, Ark., related Colo., next week and hope- the middle part of May. fully will be able to bring it “Everything is going pret- home,” she said. ty good,” she said. “Business Casper said her show is is up so far. And, well, knock just “busting at the seams” on wood, I don’t want to jinx right now, i.e., feeling growing myself, but we have had really pains. The show is expanding good weather. No tornadoes their season as well as expand- so far this year.” ing the territory where they Casper said they have had are playing. several dates so far this year The carnival will probably with their newly refurbished not purchase another new ride Wisdom Gravitron. The show for the 2012 season, but they purchased the ride used 12 are definitely looking to - pur years ago. chase a new corn dog trailer at “We spent about $80,000 the end of the season as well getting it redone,” she said. as looking at new kiddie rides. “We had it totally rethemed. “Albert Frieden at Dar- It is like we have a brand new tron is building a motorcycle ride. And, people coming to jump ride for us,” Casper said. our midway also think it is “We may invest in other kid- brand new.” die rides after the season. We Casper said they hired are looking at kiddie rides that Denny’s Electronics of Sara- also will ride adults. We feel sota, Fla., to do the refurbish- that is a good fit for us.” ment and certainly haven’t Pam Mabbitt Casper’s regretted it. They renamed the sister, Jayne Mabbitt Peters, ride Area 51. passed away in mid-April. “It’s beautiful,” she said. She said it has been hard, but She said they have also they are trying to move on. purchased a brand new Wis- Their parents, John and Bar- dom Super Himalaya, but, at bara Mabbitt, passed the show mid-May, had not taken deliv- to their children Pam Mabbitt ery of it. The show had hoped Casper, Jayne Mabbitt Peters, for it sooner, but Casper said and Monte Mabbitt. she felt they would get it by —Pam Sherborne

Sombrero world record set during Funtastic Traveling Shows event

A group of 1,008 people wearing sombreros at Water- front Park in Portland, Ore., set a world record on May 12, 2012. The previous record for the largest gathering of people wearing sombreros, was about 500 people. Ron Burback who owns Funtastic Traveling Shows Car- nival in Portland has a Special Events division that pro- duces full events. They produce the three-day Cinco de Mayo Fiesta, the largest Hispanic event in Portland, over the Cinco de Mayo weekend. COURTESY TRACY BURBACK - MUNOZ 44 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012

Ottaway Amusements hit by twister FIRST REPORTED ON STORY: Pam Sherborne day date was only his second did have a games trailer blow amusementtoday com [email protected] date of the 2012 season. over at the winter quarters.” “We had closed the mid- Ottaway and his staff WICHITA, Kan. – Just way at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, spent the days following the three days after an EF3 tor- because they were predicting tornado totally dismantling nado touched down in Wich- the storms,” Ottaway said. and taking the wheel apart. ita April 15, Danny Ottaway, “The storm hit at 10:30 or 11 They then put it on flatbeds Ottaway Amusements, had that night. It tipped the wheel and trucked it to the Chance already trucked the pieces straight onto its side. It fell plant. of his twisted Chance Cen- right into the middle of my Speaking with Ottaway tury Wheel across town to the (Wisdom) Go Gater kiddie on April 17, he didn’t know Chance Manufacturing Co. roller coaster, totally demol- what the estimate would be on The storm system that ishing that ride.” fixing the ride. He feels prob- passed through Wichita that Ottaway feels that the ably 50 percent of it is salvage- day brought with it dozens twister must have been off the able. of tornados as it trekked east- ground at the time it crossed “Unfortunately, I didn’t ward. The one that toppled his over his show, tipping the have any insurance on it,” Ot- 65-foot wheel was reported to highest ride. taway said. “I know people have been one mile wide with “I have two Hampton um- are going to read this and say, A EF3 twister in Wichita, Kansas on April mangled Ottaway winds between 136-165 mph. brella rides and it didn’t knock ‘My God, what was he think- Amusements Chance Century Wheel. It stayed on the ground about those over at all,” he said. “My ing not to have any insurance COURTESY OTTAWAY AMUSEMENTS 20 minutes, long enough to go (Eyerly) Rock-O-Plane ride on it.’ But, you know, it is just about 15 miles before lifting is about half the height of the the chance you take. I bought ment and his 17 rides. In other The Go Gator, which he off the ground. wheel and it didn’t bother that that wheel about 20 years ago. words, instead of paying the purchased about 25 years insurance company the premi- ago, is gone. He paid between FrederiksenOttaway 1/7x3Amusements, b/w 3/14/02 either. 11:22 AM Page 1 At that time, it was going to based in Wichita, had set up in “I live in Wichita, too,” cost me $18,000 a year to in- um, he put some money back $35,000 and $40,000 for that a mall parking lot before head- he said. “I also have my win- sure that one ride.” for these times. ride. ing out to other events sched- ter quarters here. I didn’t have So, Ottaway said, he de- “Of course, I have all “We are going to do al- uled in Oklahoma. The single any damage to my home, but I cided to self-insure his equip- kinds of liability insurance right,” he said. “If it had taken coverage,” he said. out my whole show, well, that “The #1 Leading Slide Manufacturer in America” FREDERIKSEN The ride cost him about would have been different. We “World’s Largest 5 Lane, One Trailer Slide - 108 Ft.” INDUSTRIES, INC. $450,000 20 years ago. are going to be fine.” 5212 St. Paul St. • Financing and Leasing Available • Trades Considered Tampa, Florida 33619 • Order Slide Bags or “New Rain” Bags (813) 628-4545 Florida federal court • 6 New Slides In Stock FAX (813) 621-3679 • Have 20 Used Rides www.funslide.com • 90 Ft. Fiberglass Slide halts new H-2B rules • 65 Ft. Fiberglass Slide PENSACOLA, Fla. — A FIRST REPORTED ON federal court judge in the Northern District of Florida amusementtoday com Pensacola Division issued a preliminary injunction April members was presented as 26 against new regulations testimony. the U.S. Department of Labor Although the injunction (DOL) wanted to implement was granted in Florida’s fed- to the H-2B temporary worker eral court district, it applies program. nationwide. The new rules, according Johnson sent out a state- to some outdoor amusement ment that said: “The H-2B industry experts, will make program is still under attack the H-2B program almost un- by the Administration and usable for them as well as oth- DOL. They have unlimited 24 Seats ers that rely heavily on the resources and will appeal this decision and will work to pro- Up to 48 Children seasonal workers, such as the landscaping industry. mote their big labor and union Holds Adults The rules actually were backed pseudo ‘worker’s Up to 200 lbs. implemented by the DOL on rights’ group’s agenda. It is April 23, but were not sched- up to all of us, the H-2B stake- Simultaneous uled to become “operative” holder community, to project Loading/Unloading until April 27, according to this essential program from Set-up Fast and Easy! Bob Johnson, OABA president. this attack.” Two lawsuits filed in the OABA has joined with Pull with Pickup federal court in Pensacola seven other associations in this against the new regulations by litigation. Wayne Pierce, prin- Another “family ride” a group of interested parties cipal of the Pierce Law Firm also available... resulted in the injunction. The and Blank Rome attorneys in Big Eli Construction Zone sworn statement from CEO Philadelphia, heads the legal Sabeena Hickman of the Pro- team in this matter. Pierce filed fessional Landcare Network, his motion in the OABA’s case 1-800-274-0211 fax 217-479-0103 PLANET, detailing the serious April 13. [email protected] elibridge.com harm the DOL’s H-2B chang- —Pam Sherbrone es would cause to PLANET June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 45 46 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012

MIDWAY midwaylights MARKET PLACE COMPILED: Pam Sherborne, [email protected]

A bill that would establish a board to gov- The 22nd Agricultural Board, which over- ern the troubled Tennessee State Fair in Nash- sees the fairgrounds hasn’t enacted a complete ville, passed unanimously in the State Senate ban. It’s still legal to smoke, just not in the gen- last month. eral public areas or where alcoholic beverages Under the legislation, a board under the are served. state’s agriculture department would be estab- The board has reduced the number of lished and be solely responsible for administer- smoking areas from seven to four, according to ing the fair and setting rules about its operation fair spokesperson Linda Zweig. The four smok- and management. The new board would be al- ing areas include the south side of Bing Crosby lowed to sell and lease property under man- Hall, the east side of the Grandstand, the west agement of the commission. The state House side of the arena and at Surfside Race Place. passed the same legislation one week earlier. The smoking rules do not apply to the The Tennessee State Fair has been plagued horse-racing season, which immediately fol- with lower than hoped attendances over the lows the fair’s 24-day run, according to local last few years, with a couple of those years be- reports. ing totally deluged with rain. The current Nash- The fair’s theme this year is “Out of this ville Metropolitan Administration has quit World.” funding the fair and had wanted to redevelop • the fair site, but that idea has not taken hold. New rides are coming to Adventure Vil- Several advocates that support keeping lage at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, Spring- the fair in Nashville and at its current site at the field, but only during the run of the state fair State Fairgrounds said they were concerned itself. Adventure Village has ceased being a the legislation would be the final step in mov- non-fair season park. Officials said the park, ing the fair to another part of the state and al- which had been open from Memorial Day to low the fairgrounds to be demolished. Labor Day each, was no longer able to support • itself. In one of the largest productions ever North American Midway Entertainment, mounted by the Calgary (Alta.) Stampede, or- based in Farmland, Ind., which operates rides ganizers hope to tell the tale of how the Great- at Adventure Village, has been removing the est Outdoor Show on Earth came to be — old rides since January. North American Mid- through the eyes of a horse. way also provides the midway for the entire fair. In honor of the 100th anniversary, “Tails” The old rides will be replaced by new rides will celebrate the fabled origins of the Stam- still geared to children and families. However, pede in a 45-minute spectacle that combines the new rides will be there only during the run video, music, special effects and more than two of the Illinois State Fair, Aug. 9-19. dozen live horses. Once the 2012 fair is over, the rides will be The story will follow three horses from removed until next year. three distinct cultural enclaves of the old west • — ranchers, First Nations Tribes and rodeo The theme of this year’s Nebraska State stars — tracking their path to the very first Cal- Fair, Grand Island, “High Flying Fun” was cre- gary Stampede in 1912. ated to not only reflect the addition of the fair’s The show will be performed daily during new Sky Tram (sky ride) to be complete for the the Stampede and entrance will be free with 2012 event, but it is also a reflection of what of- admission. ficials there want to portray… fun for the entire Fair dates this year are July 6-15. family. • Shaun Schleif, marketing and sponsorship The Grant County Fair and Rodeo, John director for the fair said, “The addition of the Day, Ore., could be held two weeks earlier in new Sky Tram was the impetus in selecting this August starting next year under a proposal go- year’s theme. While it describes the 40-foot ing to the fair board. high Sky Tram, it also represents the fun the Moving the fair to an earlier time in August Nebraska State Fair provides for every member would provide several benefits, according to of the family.” fairgrounds manager Mary Weaver. Competi- The Sky Tram will traverse the distance of tors who want to enter the Oregon State Fair four football fields, from the Exhibition Build- would also be able to compete at the county ing to the southern tip of the Cattle Barn. It will fair, which has conflicted with the state dates. be a permanent installation, but will only oper- The earlier date also would eliminate con- ate during the 11 days of the State Fair. The flicts with fall sports and with teacher in-service rest of the year, the tram cables and chairs will sessions, allowing more participation at the fair. be stored. The Sky Tram’s more than 50 chairs Under the proposed schedule, which will be outfitted with canopies. would not take effect until the 2013 fair, the In addition, the tram will be a separate tick- fair would be held during the first full week of eted attraction during the fair. Wade Shows, August. Livonia, Mich., has been selected to operate This year’s fair will remain as scheduled, the tram this year. Wade Shows will take over during the third week of August. The dates are the midway contract completely in 2013, will Aug. 22-25. replacing Belle City Amusements, based in The dates for the 2012 Oregon State Fair, Deltona, Fla. Salem, are Aug. 24-Sept. 3. Fair dates for the 2012 fair are Aug. 24- • Sept. 3. The San Diego County Fair, Del Mar, Ca- • lif., set for June 8-July 4, is looking for ways to Have Midway News or a state fair date Keep our carnival and fair industry strong! reduce smoking. of interest? Email it to Pam Sherborne at: [email protected]. Buy products and services from these suppliers. June 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 47

MARKETPLACE AmusementToday.com AUCTIONS EQUIPMENT OPPORTUNITIES SERVICES AUCTION FOR SALE OPPORTUNITY OPPORTUNITY

TOKEN MACHINES FOR SALE Due to growth at the four North Texas Hawaiian Falls waterparks and the addi- Four Token Machines (26” tall, 13.5” tion of a new park in Waco, wide, and 13” deep) Hawaiian Falls Waterparks is seeking Manufacturer: Standard Change-Makers senior managers. 2 - Model 200 The following positions are currently 2 - Model 400 open: Front display has yellow background with pink, purple and teal print with MECHANIC •General Manager stars. Sides and back are black. •Director of Finance Text reads: Midway Tokens - Insert Cash Company: •Director of Marketing Here - Tokens Dispensed Here www.quassy.com Bill accepter takes $1, $5, $10 & $20 Email cover letter and resumé to bills. Tokens dispense along bottom Quassy Amusement Park, Middlebury, [email protected]. (7.5” opening) Lock on front left. Three- Conn., has a full-time mechanic’s posi- More info and job descriptions are prong plug comes out of backside. tion available. Applicant must have a online at http://www.hfalls.com/water Price for all four: $6,776 thorough knowledge of and experi- park/employment.html Please call (603) 474-5424 May 2010 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39 ence with mechanics, gear reduction, September 2009 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39 2008 CAPCO CENTER TRAILER pneumatics, hydraulics, and electro-me- chanical. Must have the proven ability Like-new condition, 18’x8’, removable to use these skills to ensure the save hitch, all hydraulic, goes to ground level, operation, maintenance, and inspec- Subscribe to our YouTube channel extra awning lights. tions of amusement rides, attractions youtube.com/amusementtoday CLASSIFIEDSand company equipment. $40,300 CLASSIFIEDS www.AmusementToday.comCompetitive salary,www.AmusementToday.com benefits package. Call EJ Dean (978) 375-2542 Complete job description available Follow us on Twitter To place an ad call (817) 460-7220via e-mail at [email protected]. twitter.com/amusementtoday GENERATOR FOR SALE To placeContact an Ericad Anderson, call (203)(817) 758-2913 460-7220 x100. Quassy is an EOE. FOReM SALEploYMenT FOR SALEFoR Sale Detroit deiselFo 140kwR Sale mounted in a FoR Sale FoR Sale eMploYMenT sound proofFo enclosureR Sale OPPORTUNITYFoR Sale SeRVIceS Smokey Mountain Smokey Mountain 400 amp 3 phase main breaker, com- East Coast Beach Location Canned Spiel Repeaters Amusements Inc. Amusements Inc. pletely rebuilt in 1994 and only used Great for game booths and ride queue needs Ride Help - In All Departments 1300 hours since. lines. Complete with 24-watt amp needs Ride Help - In All Departments 12 Rides Ride Superintendent - For Green Unit and weather-tight speaker. Up to fourCan Ride Superintendent - For Green Unit 500 gal fuel capacity 13 Games 2-minute custom sayings or one self- Electrician - For Green Unit Electrician - For Green Unit Profitable, owner looking to diversify repeating custom canned spiel. Contact: For more details and pictures with existing operations. Contact: Brian (Beaver) Bitner call Dennis at (718) 372-2592 $350 - Go to www.ACsound.net® for Brian (Beaver) Bitner and (919) 272-5627 If interested, please contact: more information or call Anthony at (919) 272-5627 Billy Clark - (863) 738-1689 Len Soled (865) 742-1394 Billy Clark - (863) 738-1689 OPPORTUNITY MAY Winter Quarters Now Open! Rides-4-U, Inc. Winter Quarters Now Open! help grow your business? (843) 362-0022 TFN SMOKEY MOUNTAIN AMUSEMENTS (908) 526-8009 (843) 362-0022 TFN INC. Needs Ride Help In All Bumper Cars (24 cars) 40x80 (SBF)....$125,000 Spin out T/M (Huss) ...... $299,000 Departments:Eclipse -Fabbri T/M= ...... $399,000 SeRVIceS Twister/Maverick (Moser) ...... $599,000 LOOPING COASTER Twister/ Maverick (Moser) ...... $599,000 LOOPING COASTER Ride Superintendent - For Green Unit. SkyDrop Master Tower -ARM T/M (ARM) T/M ...... $179,000 ...... $299,000 J&D Carnival Services offering ser- eDropQUI TowerpM T/MenT (ARM) ...... Wan$249,000Ted eQUILaunchpM LoopenT Shuttle Wan CoasterTed Electrician - For Green Unit. vices to you for a low, low price. Launch Loop Shuttle Coaster 1998 TM Chance Gondola Wheel all steel with Contact:DropRio Grande Tower -ARM(Zamperla) T/M ...... $399,000 ...... $19,000 $410,000 - Completely rebuilt July Super Truck (SBF)SLIDES ...... $19,900 Arrow DynamicsSLIDES all steel with G-Force 4, 56’ high x 635’ long BrianRioCrazy Grande- (Beaver) Dance Zamperla (Fabbri) Bitner ...... $325,000 T/M ...... $19,000 2009. 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All updates. •Ride painting FUNHOUSES ForIndiana. photos $140,000and details: (863)ScooterCrazy 738-1689 Bus 1400 T/M -Majestic (Zamperla) T/M ...... $99,000 ...... $109,000 Ask us how you can tap into over Crazy Bus T/M (Zamperla) ...... $99,000 •Ride washing Wanted used “Carnival Funhouses”, [email protected] photosFUNHOUSES and details: Tornado T/M (Wisdom) ...... $99,000 WinterCrazy Bus Quarters -Zamperla Now T/M Open! ...... $99,000 Please call Gene Dean: (978) 375-2542 •Ride repair work mobility not necessary [email protected] Other Rides 250 million potential customers. Tornado T/M (Wisdom) ...... $99,000 (843)Drop 362-0022Tower (Moser) ...... $89,000 or e-mail [email protected] •Concession cleaning Wantedwww.funspotpark.com used22 “Carnival Other Rides Funhouses”, Tornado -Wisdom T/M ...... $129,000 •Concession work DropContact Tower (Moser) Sunny ...... (612) 332-5600$89,000 mobilityAngola, not Indiananecessary Americana Carousel 28’ (Chance) ...$119,000 RIDEOrient MAINTENANCE Express -Wisdom ...... $139,000 SUPERVISOR and much, much more. TFN TO SIGN UP FOR Americana Carousel 28’ (Chance) .....$119,000 KIDDIE RIDES FOR SALE atTraffic a Virginia Jam T/MBeach (SBF) Amusement ...... $219,000 Park affinitymm.com/twitterbook Contact Sunny 612 332-5600 Turbo Force -Zamperla T/M ...... $199,000 THIS2 Bob FREE Space NEWS Racers SERVICE WeWe will travel travel the the East East Coast. Coast. 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POOL TABLES [email protected] AMUSEMENTTODAY.COMFor Sale: Waterslide molds from AMUSEMENT TODAY Deluxe Sizzler T/M (Wisdom) ...... $99,000 : $65,0007. VIDEO GAMES For Sale: 1987 Huss Sellner Apple T/M ...... $29,000 reputable company. Four complete CLASSIFIEDS Calypso: $22,000 Call Len or John systems ready for production with Crazy Surf P/M 60ft. tall 18 people (Sartori) Great Condition. WANTED: EXPERIENCED YOUR USED RIDE FlyingQUARTERTIME Scooter: $28,000 AMUSEMENTS Call(908) Len 526-8009 or John two additional systems available. claSSIFIed Tower rehabbed in 2004. AMUSEMENT RIDE MECHANIC MARKETPLACE ...... $99,000 Majestic Bumper Cars: $8,000 FAX:(908) (908) 526-8009 526-4535 claSSIFIed CallP/M. Michael: Excellent (410) ride 358-8311 for Successful candidates must be expe- Please contact [email protected] deadlIneS riencedFAX: in all (908)aspects 526-4535 of Amusement MAY Call Len or John [email protected]. deadlIneS Park maintenance programs. Candi- AMUSEMENT(908) 526-8009 TODAY’S Angola,Ride is Indiana operating and available dates must have the ability to read ClassifiedFAX: pages (908) close 526-4535 the 10th of October 1st. AMUSEMENT TODAY’S FOR SALE maintenance manuals, maintain, erect, month prior to the issue date. Location - Eastern USA. Classified pages close the 10th of repair, and troubleshoot ride and park DATEBOOK Rates: Wisdom Sizzler - $125,000 month prior to the issue date. SBF 4x4 Truck Ride - $27,500 equipment. •Regular classified ad– • Rates: 99-year-oldBobs Space Carousel Racers 10-player w/1924 WaterWurlitzer JUNE 2 $20 minimum up to 30 words; organ. Located in USA. Major rehab •Regular classified ad– Race Game - Park Model - $9,995 Please respond with qualifications, $1 per additional word. in 2004. Indoor location. Available Give$20 minimumKids The up toWorld 30 words; Village, 24th Annual Black & Hampton 14-player Water Race Game resume, contact information, and salary Find •Displayus on Facebook classified ad –$50 September 2009. White$1 perGala, additional Peabody word. Hotel, Orlando, Fla. Park Model - Make Offer requirements to: facebook.com/amusementtodayper column inch. A 1-point •Display classified ad –$50 FourBobs rows,Space 35Racers jumpers, 8-player 23 standers,Tin Can Human Resources Department • rule will appear around ad. per column inch. A 1-point Alley Game - 2Make chariots. Offer Santa’s Village AZoosment Park www.amusementtoday.com •Company logos, screens and JUNErule will5 & appear 6 around ad. 601 Dundee Ave. reverses also are available on Available through International Ride WWA•Company Asian logos, Symposium, screens and Hong Kong SAR, China Martin’s Fantasy Island East Dundee, IL 60118 Subscribedisplay to our ads YouTube upon request. channel Management reverses also are available on youtube.com/amusementtoday (716) 773-7591 x3106 Email: [email protected] display ads upon request. Call (609)SUBSCRIBE 920-0252 or (609) TODAY 827-1316 RECEIVE 14 NEWS-PACKED ISSUES PER YEAR STAY INFORMED AT CLASSIFIEDS YOUR USED RIDE MARKETPLACE AT CLASSIFIEDS YOUR USED RIDE MARKETPLACE GAMES FOR SALE LOOPING COASTER MAIL THIS FORM TO: AMUSEMENT TODAY • P.O. BOX 5427 • ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76005 USA TO SUBSCRIBE FAX THIS FORM TO: 817.265.6397 • SUBSCRIBE ONLINE: www.amusementtoday.com SUBSCRIPTION1. SKEE BALLS FORMLaunch Loop Shuttle Coaster 2.R CLAWNew MACHINES Subscription Arrow Dynamics all steel with R3. RenewalSTACKERS G-Force 4, 56’FIRST high AND LAST x 635’ NAME long CREDIT CARD NUMBER 4. SPORTS ARENAS R Change of Address Built 1977, Excellent condition in 5. AIR HOCKEY TABLES Indiana. $200,000 6. POOL TABLES USA OUTSIDE USAFor photosCOMPANY and NAME details: EXPIRATION DATE 3-4 DIGIT SECURITY CODE 7.R VIDEOOne Year GAMES $50 $70 [email protected] R Two Years $90 $130 ADDRESS NAME AS IT APPEARS ON CARD (Company Name and/or Cardholder Name) QUARTERTIME AMUSEMENTS P.O. Box 5427 R Three Years $130 $190 P.O. Box 5427 Arlington, Texas 76005-5427 CITY, STATE, ZIP CODE (or Province and Postal Code) TELEPHONE NUMBER (REQUIRED) Call Michael: (410) 358-8311 Arlington, Texas 76005-5427 • R Payment Enclosed AMUSEMENT • (817) 460-7220 COUNTRY EMAIL ADDRESS Charge to Credit Card: (817) 460-7220 Fax (817) 265-NEWS (6397) TODAY SIGN ME UP FOR FREE EMAIL NEWS ELI #5 FERRIS WHEEL Fax (817) 265-NEWS FREE(6397) • QUESTIONS? CALL AT: 817.460.7220 NEWS! R EXTRA! EXTRA! YOUR DESKTOP EDITION RRSerial# 1161-69 R • We accept: G/M, sand blasted CLASSIFIEDS ready for repair and paint We accept: 45-foot trailer YOUR I WANT TO HELP BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTABLE DONATION IN THE AMOUNT BELOW TO PRESERVING MAKE A YES! THE NATIONAL ROLLER COASTER MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES. MORE INFO: ROLLERCOASTERMUSEUM.ORG $6,000 cash ROLLER COASTER USED RIDE HISTORY DONATION R $10 R $25 R $50 R OTHER AMOUNT: $ Call John Fanelli (978) 343-4881 MARKETPLACE 48 AMUSEMENT TODAY June 2012