INSIDE:

Flume in 2020 for Luna Park

TM & ©2018 , Inc. PAGE 24

October 2018 | Vol. 22 • Issue 7 www.amusementtoday.com

Camelbeach Mountain's 2018 WWA Symposium and Trade ProSlide stirs thrills Show to highlight industry’s best AT: Jeffrey Seifert [email protected] Annual event will offer attendees the chance TANNERSVILLE, Pa. — Camelbeach Mountain to hear about the latest trends Waterpark, nestled in ’s Pocono Mountains, mixes business, in food and beverage, group unveiled its latest thrill ride over the summer. fun in Las Vegas sales and marketing strategies High Noon Typhoon, a ProSlide Tornado with an that deliver the best results for AT: Pam Sherborne extended ProSlide River lead-in, complements each revenue category. [email protected] educational sessions covering the park’s 36 other water attractions — adding a high-thrill In addition to these new topics from safety to mainte- ride to its extensive collection of waterslides. It occupies workshops, the WWA educa- nance to marketing to hiring the mountainside water park's highest point. LAS VEGAS, Nev. — tional program will feature best practices. All-day certi- Ken Ellis and Arthur Berry, III, co-owners of Water park industry profes- two leading keynote speakers. fication workshops start on Camelback Mountain Resort, of which the waterpark is sionals and suppliers will Up first on Thursday, Oct. 25, Sunday, Oct. 21. a part, celebrated the opening of the attraction in mid- descend on Las Vegas Oct. is Mark Scharenbroich, CSP, In addition, Root said that July with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and an inaugural ride 23-26 for the 2018 World CPAE, who will discuss his as of mid-September they were down the slide. Waterpark Association Nice Bike concept and how expecting about 350 booths “There’s nothing Art and I love more than seeing (WWA) Symposium and making the right connections on the trade show floor. The Camelbeach guests of all ages enjoying themselves on Trade Show. move people. trade show runs for two days, these slides, so we do the important research,” said Ellis, All activities, exclud- Next up on Friday, Oct. 26, 12:30-6:30 p.m., Wednesday, who took the plunge in full business attire. “The only way ing the WWA Annual Golf is David Avrin, CSP, who will Oct. 23, and 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m., we know a slide will deliver the thrills is to ride it ourselves. Tournament and the WWA shine a light on the monumen- Thursday, Oct. 24. That’s why we wore our ‘wet suits’ to work!” Annual Reunion Party at tal shift in purchasing behavior Wet'n'Wild Las Vegas, are This year’s educational and expectation while show- 4See TORNADO, page 6 being held at the Westgate Las program includes two new ing everyone’s role in elimi- Vegas Resort and Casino. The workshops, both taking place nating barriers, engaging pros- week will be filled with work- Tuesday, Oct. 23. The first is the pects and creating customer shops, educational sessions, Executive & Senior Officials experiences worth sharing. networking and social events. All Hazards Preparedness “Our attendees have high “The WWA show is about Workshop, presented by the expectations for the WWA bringing people together,” said Texas A&M Engineering educational program and we Rick Root, WWA president. Extension Service and funded work closely with our com- “Our industry does well when by the U.S. Dept. of Homeland mittees to develop content the people working within it Security. This workshop is that is actionable, meaning- can connect with like-minded being offered at no cost to ful and highly impactful,” professionals and learn from attendees. It will offer those said Aleatha Ezra, director of each other. who attend the opportunity to park member development for “We’re excited to be in Las take home an action plan for WWA. Vegas, a city that offers an water park-specific scenarios, WWA has a tool on the unmatched level of energy and such as a major weather event, Who’s Exhibiting page at excitement for our show,” Root as well as general emergency wwashow.org that allows High Noon Typhoon, a Tornado waterslide from ProSlide said. “It’s always an appeal- situations. attendees to find companies Technology, Inc., of Ottawa, Canada, began whipping ing location for us, and we’re The second is a workshop with whom they wish to up thrills in July at Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark in expecting a strong turnout.” titled WWA University: Fuel schedule an appointment and Tannersville, Pa. Your In-Park Revenue with COURTESY CAMELBEACH MOUNTAIN WATERPARK WWA Show 2018 will bring attendees more than 40 Marketing Strategies, which 4See WWA, page 7

AMUSEMENT VIEWS BUSINESS Page 4 Pages 44-53 Dated material. material. Dated

Tuesday, September 25, 2018 Tuesday, PARKS & SAFETY NEWSPAPER

POSTMASTER:

PLEASE RUSH! Mailed Pages 10-30 Pages 54-61

PERMIT # 2069 # PERMIT

FT. WORTH TX WORTH FT.

PAID

US POSTAGE US WATER PARKS CLASSIFIEDS PRSRT STD PRSRT Pages 31-43 Page 62 2 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 AMUSEMENT VIEWS

AT NOTEBOOK: Jeffrey Seifert, [email protected] FLINT’S VIEW: Bubba Flint Aquatics for civic health Civic groups and government leaders are recognizing the benefits that aquatic facilities provide for their city, county or state. The result has been a major push to provide the funding necessary to re- place dilapidated city pools and build Seifert new facilities. Fortunately, community support is typically strong, particularly if the community is involved with the decision-making. Taxpayers understand that a few more dollars raised through slight increases in property and sales taxes can produce significant results. Sometimes cities get creative with the taxes, as in the case of Aurora, Colo., which de- cided to use a marijuana tax to fund its latest water park. Other cities have received monetary help from civic groups, such as Kiwanis Clubs, or private compa- nies and enterprises that have a major presence in the community. When El Paso, Texas, realized that people were leav- GUEST OPINION: Rick Root, President, World Waterpark Association ing the city for better opportunities elsewhere, the com- munity banded together to form a citizen initiative to To create great experiences, inclusivity is key pass a $473 million Quality of Life bond program that In the past few years, more and more magazine — thanks to its safe, barrier-free included $37.5 million for aquatic facilities. water park operators are taking a look at environment for children with special needs. Last winter, Grand Prairie, Texas, opened Epic Wa- how to make their websites, facilities and Other parks implementing “access for all” staff more accessible and welcoming to programs include Hersheypark in Hershey, ters, the largest indoor, city-owned water park in North guests with disabilities — both physical and Pa., and Sesame Place in Langhorne, Pa., to America. Epic Waters was funded by a 1/4-cent sales cognitive. At their core, water park opera- name a few. tax originally passed 25 years earlier to build a horse tors want to provide the best, most enjoy- Outside the U.S., Sandcastle Waterpark racetrack. When the racetrack was paid off early, Grand able experience they can for families visiting Root in Blackpool, U.K., has received numerous Prairie citizens opted to keep the tax in place to fund their facilities. This motivation is one of the awards for its commitment to inclusive tour- recreational facilities. reasons our industry is embracing the concept of ism. For the Sandcastle Waterpark team, it’s been inclusive tourism. about thinking through the complete guest experi- In State, Gov. Andrew Cuomo awarded As defined by Push Adventures (pushadven- ence from pre-visit to visit to post-visit. The park $10 million to the City of Oswego to build a water park tures.com.au), an inclusive tourism consultancy has installed a variety of inclusive services while also to link to convention facilities as part of a downtown re- based in South , “inclusive tourism is about training staff to treat each guest, regardless of ability, vitalization package. reducing uncertainty around what to expect from a with care and understanding. From splash pads and water parks to swimming destination or service. It creates increased participa- As Push Adventures states, inclusive tourism tion in tourism activities and embraces the entire goes beyond providing a ramp: “Not all disabilities pools and aquatic centers, water play is an important community of travelers, regardless of ability.” are visible and every person is unique. There are so part of every community. Aquatic facilities draw people Several water parks are already leading the many small details that can make the world of differ- out of their homes, encouraging them to interact with charge by introducing an “access for all” approach. ence to a person’s travel experience.” each other, enjoy the sunshine and reap the benefits of A leading example within the U.S. market is Morgan’s Increasing our focus on inclusive recreational healthful activity. The social, cultural, recreational and Inspiration Island at Morgan’s Wonderland in San experiences as we expand our parks, attractions and therapeutic opportunities of city-funded aquatic centers Antonio, Texas. Designed with special needs individ- services will not only serve our guests well, it will uals in mind, Morgan’s Inspiration Island was recently position our businesses and our industry as preferred cannot be overstated. named one of the “World’s Greatest Places” by Time destinations for this growing market segment.

Opinions expressed on this page do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

Call (817) 460-7220 for advertising, circulation or editorial inquiries

Amusement Today is an independent, privately- Founder & Publisher Managing Editor Production Manager owned trade newspaper published 14 times Gary Slade • (817) 460-7220 x3 Dean Lamanna • (817) 460-7220 John Robinson • (513) 256-1441 per year by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. Box [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. Print issues are $50 per year and are mailed Presort Standard Postage (permit No. 2069) Pre-Paid Fort Worth, Accounting & Classified Editorial Monthly Contributors Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper, Sammy Piccola • (817) 460-7220 x1 Tim Baldwin • (972) 697-9745 Dan Feicht, Bubba Flint, and its related websites, are Copyrighted and [email protected] [email protected] Richard Munch, Janice Witherow Trademarked 2018 by Amusement Today Inc., all rights reserved. Assistant Office Manager, Circulation Jeffrey Seifert • (817) 460-7220 x4 Association Memberships Savannah Breen • (817) 460-7220 x5 [email protected] ACE, AIMS International, ASTM, IAAPA, IISF, Address: P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas IRT/iROC, NAARSO, NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, 76005-5427, USA [email protected] • (717) 650-8330 PAPA, PACE, TTIA, WWA Deliveries: 2012 E. Randol Mill Road #203, B. Derek Shaw [email protected] Arlington, Texas 76011, USA Advertising Industry Affiliated Charities Phone: (817) 460-7220 Sue Nichols • (615) 477-5432 Pam Sherborne • (615) 308-3310 Give Kids the World Village, Morgan's Wonderland, Fax: (817) 265-NEWS (6397) [email protected] National Museum & Archives Websites: www.AmusementToday.com, [email protected] www.GoldenTicketAwards.com October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5

THE INDUSTRY SEEN MINUTE Exchanging mini-Larson Loops of gold DRILL 2 AT: Janice Witherow Patty Miller, World Waterpark Association Patty Miller began her career with the World Waterpark Association (WWA) in 1986, handling the books and all mailings for the organization’s monthly magazine. After attending her first WWA trade show, she gained a greater appreciation for the scope of the water park industry and the service WWA provided to it. Eventually, she delved into sales and marketing for WWA to help it grow. “I could not be happier in my position, and I take pride in helping people ‘get their feet wet’ in this unique industry,” said Patty, who currently serves as WWA’s COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho — On Friday, Aug. 31, Hunter director of trade show and supplier rela- Novotny, son of owners Jeff and tions. “I enjoy every minute of it.” Stephanie Novotny, and Melissa Howell began a new chapter of their lives with their marriage at Settlers Creek, Number of years in the industry: 32 a historic farmstead. Hunter, a newer member of the amusement industry, is employed at Larson, where he is Best thing about the industry: learning all plant operations. Melissa works as an RN and The wonderful people I deal with, suppliers BSN at University Medical Center in Lubbock, Texas. The and parks alike. It’s a fun, happy industry. Patty Miller, currently director of trade couple makes their home in Lubbock. Amusement Today show and supplier relations for the World congratulates the newlyweds and wishes them all the best Favorite amusement rides: Waterslides Waterpark Association, is a 32-year indus- as they begin their journey together. (the less adventurous ones), lazy rivers and try veteran. COURTESY PATTY MILLER swim-up bars (LOL). When I meet someone for the first time, If I wasn’t working in the amusement the first thing I notice is… industry… I am not sure what I would be If they are smiling. doing. I definitely would be a completely different person on every level. When I daydream, I usually find myself thinking of… Biggest challenge facing our industry: Walking on the beach. Youth (and parental) dependency on mobile devices. It is a different world, For lunch, do you grab something on the challenging our parks to bring families to go or sit down and eat? play outdoors. On the go.

The thing I like most about amusement/ It’s football season! My favorite team water park season is… is… The Kansas City Chiefs. Going to water parks. When driving in my car, I typically listen When it comes to pizza, I usually order… to… Satellite radio — ’70s. Supreme with lots of veggies. The best place I have ever eaten ice The last time I wore tennis shoes was… cream would have to be… Dip cones This morning. from Dairy Queen.

My best vacation ever was… A lovely When in the grocery store, do you have oceanfront villa in Rincón, Puerto Rico. So a list or just grab what you need? remote that no one could find you if they A list… always a list. tried. Avocados at roadside the size of footballs! You are invited to the White House. What room would you most want to My favorite weekend activity is… see? I actually have been invited to the Summer: spending time at the lake with my White House. It is all completely magical. pups and a gaggle of giggling kids. Winter: snuggling by the fire with puzzles and my Best advice I would give my 21-year-old pups. self: If you get a chance to travel, take it. Second, find your happy. When I look out my office window… I work out of the loft of my home, so I see My favorite time of the day is… Evening. my lovely, jungle-like deck with houseplants galore! Ten years from now I hope to be… Retired in the Caribbean! My childhood ambition was to… Have babies, especially boys. Turns out I got Salty or sweet? Salty. what I wanted — twin boys (now 33). 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 TORNADO Continued from page 1

Ame Cameron, vice pres- ent of sales and marketing for Camelbeach, said High Noon Typhoon reflects the park’s commitment to “continuous innovation to ensure the biggest and best waterpark experience. With its six-story plummet and thrilling twists and turns… we are excited for our guests to ride this incredible new addition!” Standing six stories tall, the funnel-shaped ride provides scenic views, extreme , Ken Ellis, co-owner of Camelback Mountain Resort, boards G-forces and weightless hang a cloverleaf-shaped innertube along with the attraction’s time as riders soar over the lifeguards for the inaugural ride; afterward he poses with treetops. them in his “wet suit.” Riders begin High Noon COURTESY CAMELBEACH MOUNTAIN WATERPARK Typhoon by boarding a clover- the finale. Mountain Resort is a desti- leaf-shaped, four-passenger High Noon Typhoon joins nation offering skiing and innertube. The tube slides into the ranks of Camelbeach guest snowboarding as well as the a river with open-air segments favorites, which include Triple 125,000-square-foot Aquatopia and a dark, enclosed section, Venom, three six-story-tall body indoor water park and adven- tilting and turning along a slides with whipping turns and ture attractions including winding path before dropping drops; Titan, one of the world’s ziplines, an alpine coaster, a into the large funnel. longest river tube slides, which 45-minute Segway tour into Big Riders experience a moment of weightlessness as they reach Within the funnel, the takes the whole family on an Pocono State Park and more. the highest point of High Noon Typhoon’s massive funnel. tube climbs to the opposite eight-story descent with seven Visitors typically extend their COURTESY CAMELBEACH MOUNTAIN WATERPARK side, where guests experience switchbacks; and Mummy’s stay with overnight accom- a moment of weightlessness Oasis, a play zone with water modations at the 453-room U.S. News & World Report. combination of thrill and relax- before the tube reverses direc- features. The park’s hillside Camelback Lodge. “Guests love Camelback ation for all ages in a family- tion and oscillates several times location provides a natural Earlier in the sea- Resort because of the endless friendly mountain setting, and before entering the narrowest slope for most of the downhill son, Camelbeach Mountain opportunities for adventure,” we couldn’t be prouder to have part of the attraction and then water attractions. Waterpark was named one of the Cameron said. “Camelbeach been chosen.” slipping into a splash pool for The greater Camelback top 30 water parks in the U.S. by Mountain Waterpark delivers a •camelbeach.com October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 WWA Continued from page 1 set those appointments before they arrive in Las Vegas. In addition, this is the sec- ond year for the WWA Show application (app). “Whether it’s reading speaker bios, earn- ing points playing a photo- driven game or reviewing exhibitor information and finding booth numbers, we expect to see strong support for the WWA Show app again WWA Show 2018 will bring an expected 350 exhibitors — and, as in years past, a sea of splashy products — to the floor in Vegas,” Ezra said. of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Networking and educational opportunities abounded at WWA Show 2017 in West WWA is hosting several Palm Beach, Fla. This year’s event in Las Vegas will offer 40 educational sessions in addition to a dynamic trade show floor. networking events. Those COURTESY WORLD WATERPARK ASSOCIATION include the Annual Golf Tournament set for Tuesday, park in every region experi- Ezra emphasized that Waters Indoor Waterpark, event in 2010, we had no idea Oct. 23 at the Desert Pines enced perfect weather every industry trends are positive. Grand Prairie, Texas,; The how much support our mem- Golf Club and the Annual day, the weather was generally “We continue to see a lot of CORE, Hobbs, N.M.; Ridge bers would throw behind it, Reunion Party at Wet’n’Wild more consistent and allowed exciting things happening in Waters Waterpark, Butte, nor did we expect that we’d Las Vegas set for Friday, Oct. operators to string more good the water leisure industry, Mont. and Neptune Island reach a billion people with the 25. At this latter event, attend- days together. both in the private and public Waterpark, Hartsville, S.C. message that learning to swim ees will be able to mingle with “Many of our operators sectors,” she said. "These parks have once is a lifesaving skill,” Ezra said. hundreds of innovators who used the off-season to brain- New on the private side are again shown what can hap- “We hit some big milestones are taking the industry to the storm some new, innovative water parks like Aquaventure pen when city entities part- with 41,814 children and next level, all while enjoying ways to market and promote Waterpark at Atlantis Sanya, ner with other organizations adults coming out to 603 host behind-the-scenes time at the their attractions,” Root said. Hainan, ; Laguna in their community to fund locations in 27 countries.” water park venue. “As the proverb says, ‘necessi- Waterpark at La Mer, Dubai, and build a well-thought-out “We continue to be Considering what a tough ty is the mother of invention.’” UAE; Aqua Planet, in Clark aquatic center," Ezra said. amazed at how our water park year 2017 was for large swaths According to Root, inno- Freeport Zone, Philippines and A major industry achieve- members have elevated this of the water park industry vations implemented this sea- Great Wolf Lodge Georgia, La ment this year was the sup- event and really made it part globally, both Root and Ezra son included dynamic pricing Grange. port garnered by the World’s of their community efforts to said they are hearing that 2018 strategies and launching new On the public sector side, Largest Swimming Lesson combat drownings and ensure was considerably better in in-park promotions and events innovative aquatic centers (WLSL) on June 21. children learn to swim.” many regions. While not every to boost attendance. have gone online such as Epic “When we launched this • waterparks.org 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 World Waterpark Association 2018 Symposium and Trade Show

40 Below Joe 1219 ProSlide Technology Inc. 503 - 608 Accuplastics, Inc. 1201 EXHIBITOR LISTING QNC Inc./Quik n' Crispy 1427 Adventure Golf Services 1918 October 23-26, 2018 Rain Drop Products LLC 214 - 216 AGS Brands 1908 Las Vegas, Nev. Ramaker & Associates, Inc. 1816 Air Balance & Sedgatti 1605 RAVE Sports 213 Airhead Sports Group 1919 - 1921 Fluidtrol Process Technologies, Inc. 1324 Recreation Management 1902 AllChem Performance Products 1417 Foothill Communications, LLC 821 Red Flint Sand & Gravel LLC 221 Allied Specialty Insurance 1320 Forsch Polymer Corp. 1633 RenoSys Corporation 1405 Aluvii Waterpark Software 817 Gatemaster Point of Sale and Ticketing Systems 1409 Rocky Mountain Sunscreen 1313 American Red Cross 309 Gateway Ticketing Systems, Inc. 709 Royal Corporation 823 Amusement Today 1814 Global Cash Card 1218 Safe Slide Restoration 1530 Appetize Technologies 808 Global Management Amusement Professionals 1723 Saftron Manufacturing 806 Aqua Case 409 Great Lakes Bio Systems, Inc. 518 Semnox Solutions LLC 1414 Aquatic Design Group 318 Haas & Wilkerson Insurance/WWA Insurance 1503 - 1604 Shade Creations by Waterloo 1413 - 1415 Aquatic Development Group (ADG) 1515 - 1616 Halogen Supply Company 219 Shaffer Distributing 1907 Aquatics Int'l./HanleyWood 919 Hayward Commercial Aquatics 703 - 705 Skys The Limit 1807 - 1809 Aquatix by Landscape Structures 220 Herborner Pumpentechnik GmbH Co. KG 1703 - 1705 SlidePros 1230 Architectural Design Consultants Inc. 815 Ideal One Amusement Software 1607 - 1609 Smarte Carte/Smarte Locke 1806 - 1808 Avalanche Waterslides 1812 InCord Play 1206 Speck Pumps - Pool Products Inc 1635 Axiall, A Westlake Company 920 - 922 Industrial Test Systems, Inc. 523 SplashTacular 1321 - 1422 BECS Technology, Inc. 1300 Innovative Aquatic Design, LLC 1820 SR Scales by SR Instruments 1913 Bendetti Optics 1403 Innovative Attr. Management & IAM Starguard Elite 1804 Sub Sea Systems Inc. 410 Berk Concession Supply 1528 Inntopia 1813 SunBrite TV 1221 Best Lockers LLC 1318 Int'l Assoc. of Amusement Parks & Attr. (IAAPA) 915 Sunkid 1203 Big Squirt! 1306 iSlide 1407 Superior Recreational Products 809 - 910 Bissell Commercial 911 Jack's Magic Products Inc. 902 Superior Swim Systems Inc. 1906 Blue-White Industries 903 - 905 Jeff Ellis & Associates Inc. 1822 Surface America, Inc. 421 BoMar Soft Playgrounds Int'l. 1429 Kiefer Aquatics 215 Swimline & Solstice Watersports 1207 CENTAMAN Inc. 1721 Lasco Fittings Inc. 407 TAM Retail (The Assistant Manager) 106 CenterEdge Software 312 - 314 Launch Logic, Inc. 1720 The Lifeguard Store 802 - 804 Chairkit North America 1827 Life Floor 1707 - 1709 The Locker Network 1526 Chemtrol, Div. of Santa Barbara Control Systems 1706 Liftopia, Inc. 1909 Tiburon Lockers 1112 - 1114 Chlorking Inc. 1101 Lincoln Aquatics 1708 Tonik 320 - 322 CKI Locker, LLC D.B.A. American Locker 201 Lonza Water Treatment 202 - 204 Tray 1225 Clear Comfort 1226 Lost Vineyards Sangrias 1931 TRC Recreation LP 521 Cloward H2O 1713 - 1715 Magic Money, LLC 613 - 714 Tube Pro Inc. 1702 - 1704 Commercial Energy Specialists 1914 Mason Corporation 522 TUFF Coat Rubberized Non-Skid Coatings 519 Connect&GO 1732 Maxi-Sweep Inc. 1220 Ultra Polymers, Inc. 721 Contract Furnishings Int'l., Inc. 301 - 500 Mid-America Sales Inc. 723 United Food Group 100 - 102 Convergence, LLC 1110 Miracote 818 USA Shade 1315 Coretech Systems 1209 Murphys Waves Ltd. 1421 - 1423 Van Stone Conveyor, Inc. 1722 Costco Wholesale 1317 NAMCO USA Inc. 803 VLocker North America 222 Counsilman-Hunsaker 311 Natare Corporation 1208 USA 713 - 814 CPI Amusement 1412 National Aquatic Safety Company (NASCO) 1912 WALLTOPIA ADVENTURE 1506 - 1508 CPR Savers & First Aid Supply 707 Naughton Insurance Inc. 223 Water Odyssey by Fountain People 1509 - 1610 Crosskix 408 Nekdoodle® Inc. 1815 Water Safety Products Inc. 620 - 622 Daldorado, LLC 1512 - 1514 Neptune-Benson 1213 - 1314 WATER SLIDES DE MEXICO, S.A. DE C.V. 203 - 308 DataSpan 1736 Nets & More 208 - 210 Water Technology, Inc. 619 - 722 Designer Palms, Inc. 1200 - 1202 Nets Unlimited Inc. 1920 Water Wars 719 DiCAPac Inc. 1915 Neuman Aqua Ltd. 619 - 722 Waterplay Solutions Corp. 1802 Dippin' Dots, LLC 1819 Neuman Group/Neuman Pools Inc. 619 - 722 West Coast Netting 423 EasyCare Products 1900 Northeast Insurance Center, LLC 822 Weston & Sampson 1927 Eco Finish, LLC 1227 One Beat CPR & AED 1603 WET Engineering Inc. 1302 eLifeguard.com 904 OpenAire Inc. 1717 WhiteWater West 1613 - 1716 Empex Watertoys 1621 - 1623 Original Watermen Inc. 1326 Wiegand.Maelzer GmbH 1825 - 1926 F.A.S.T. Corporation 1431 PACO Pumps - Grundfos CBS Inc. 1516 William L. Haralson & Associates 1801 - 1803 Family Fun Corporation 1520 - 1522 PDC 618 World Waterpark Association (WWA) 1113 - 1214 Federal Stone Industries Inc. 1224 Pentair Commercial Aquatics 506 - 508 Wristband Resources 820

Fibrart S.A. de C.V. 1435 - 1536 1303 - 1408 XINSURANCE Powered by Insurance Brokers, LC 419 Fix Your Park 805 PolySoft Seamless Flooring 1821 Zebec Inc. 315 - 422 FlagandBanner.com 520 Pool Safe Inc. (PSI) 1308 Zpro Watersports 403 - 504 Flecks Systems 101 - 200 Profitable Food Facilities 1925 Fluidra USA 1901 - 1903 ProMinent Fluid Controls, Inc. 1502 - 1504 October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 PARKS, FAIRS & ATTRACTIONS  unleashes B&M dive coaster — page 12 / previews 2019 attractions — page 14 delivers 270-foot thriller to Poland Hyperion debuts as Energylandia’s tallest roller coaster AT: Tim Baldwin introduce Europe’s highest and ing dive drop. Apart from the [email protected] fastest lift coaster,” said Gerard tall thrill elements, Hyperion Slenders, vice president, includes a mixture of low-of- ZATAR, Poland — Intamin. “Hyperion is a state- the-ground elements like speed Energylandia is one of Europe’s ment to the whole roller coaster bumps with strong airtime, a newest theme parks. Having world in terms of height, speed side wavehill and an S-curve/ just opened in 2014, it has built and layout creativity. There is hill combination. 12 roller coasters, an impressive no other roller coaster featuring “This mixture of elements feat for a park that has even this variety of elements on this results in the most re-ride- been around for a few decades. scale.” able coaster of its size,” said This past summer, the park The coaster stands more Slenders. “Although the fig- presented it’s biggest to date than 252 feet tall. The first ures are extreme and intimidat- — and big is an understate- plunge dives into a tunnel for a ing, they are very comfortable ment. Hyperion, manufactured drop height of 269 feet, hitting due to a well-balanced G-force by Intamin, has crowds raving. a top speed surpassing 88 mph. equivalent. Nobody needs to be “During our first creative The 4,757-foot-long lay- concerned about G-forces that Hyperion’s diving drop gives riders a momentary inversion. discussions, Energylandia out features several exhilarat- are too extreme.” COURTESY ENERGYLANDIA asked for a 200-foot high coast- ing elements. A second large Two trains seat 28 passen- er. We convinced the owner to hill delivers ample airtime. gers each. The configuration to allow maximum freedom for design, every seat guarantees a feature not just one of Europe’s The following maneuver flips of riders is four per row, with the rider.” pole position ride experience.” biggest machines, but riders into a quick inversion seven rows. The wide rows In addition to the wide leg- The queue line offers sleek to push the limit to 270 feet to before plunging into a curv- have guests on the outside room, which Intamin states is and futuristic styling, complete seats extended beyond the rails. the largest on any roller coaster with blue lighting and space era “The initial request to per- worldwide, the train floor is metallics blended with the feel form four across came from flush with that of the station of a concrete bunker. The words Energylandia,” said Slenders. which maximizes a fast load Hyper Novi Station are illu- “The seat arrangement is the and unload process in addition minated in the loading station most obvious change, but not to the comfortable ergonomics. helping to carry the cool factor. the only one. The spacious “We raised the middle seats “With Hyperion we defined Megacoaster coaches feature our half a foot higher than the outer a new landmark of this size. It is latest train technology, includ- ones, resulting in a floorless high, it is fast, but it features ing the most advanced seat/ ride experience,” said Slenders. many different and even unique containment system design we “The outer seats generate higher airtime and speed experienc- introduced two years ago with G-forces, but feet are in contact es — be it the first drop and the Taron double launch coaster to the floor while the middle big airtime hill or the zero-G at Phantasialand in . ones guarantee an extra portion airtime hill of nearly four sec- The seat features an over-the- of thrill due to the high-level onds of floating airtime,” said shoulder lapbar without shoul- rider position. In combination Slenders. “This is exactly what der straps or shin bar holders with the open, spacious coach Energylandia was looking for.”

The first two drops (left) are among Europe’s tallest. The initial plunge is close to 270 feet tall. Intamin’s design on the trains are focused on comfort and view. The wavehill (right) is just one of Hyperion’s high-speed elements. COURTESY ENERGYLANDIA October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 11 12 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 Liseberg introduces Valkyria, latest dive coaster from B&M AT: Tim Baldwin looking at replacing our [email protected] launched coaster Kanonen and initially wanted a spin- GOTHENBURG, ning coaster. However, the — “It’s been a complicated proposals we were looking at project, but the end result did not work out.” has been worth all the wait The park contacted B&M, in the world,” said Andreas not expecting the company Andersen, CEO of Liseberg to be able to accommodate a . new customer. But B&M man- Valkyria, the newest aged to squeeze Liseberg into dive coaster from Bolliger & its production schedule. Mabillard (B&M), has made “We wanted a Dive its mark on the park’s land- Machine, and we worked scape. It officially opened with their engineers to fit it Aug. 10. Featuring a 90-degree first drop and three inversions, Valkyria into the park, making sure it Sporting the trademark at Liseberg amusement park is the fifth, and largest, B&M would be as long and varied floorless vehicles that have dive coaster in Europe. Its official opening was celebrated an experience as possible,” become associated with such with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Aug. 10. COURTESY LISEBERG Andersen said. “And I think coasters, Valkyria features the we have succeeded with rows of six riders, achieving ceiling. signature moment of holding that, given the constraints of an hourly capacity of more Said Andersen: “The riders right at the precipice of the site.” than 1,000 guests. whole area is far more immer- the ride’s 50-meter (164-foot) Rising 154 feet, Valkyria Valkyria sports detailed sive, greener and just prettier. plunge — a spectacle that stands taller than other coast- theming and signage to help The new station for Valkyria captivates riders and nonrid- ers at the park. The initial it fit into a redesigned area is stunning — the best station ers alike. plunge is taken at 90 degrees of the park themed with building we have made.” The park’s biggest-ever into a fog-filled tunnel. interpretations of Norse Digging the tunnel of the ride,” Andersen said. investment boasts records for Throughout the ride, which Mythology. A Valkyrie was a delayed the ride’s opening a “It is very fast, varied and being the tallest and longest is just shy of 3,000 feet in winged creature whose task bit later than the park would not just a one-trick pony. We dive coaster in Europe. length, thrill-seekers are was to carry fallen warriors have hoped, but it is a key ele- have built a new Liseberg Asked about the factors treated to three inversions: an into the afterlife. Inside the ment the park wanted. icon, a new favorite for the that went into selecting the Immelmann, a zero-G roll and station, shields of gold adorn “This coaster is, of course, guests that puts Liseberg and attraction, Andersen told a heartline roll. Three trains the walls while a fiery caul- all about the drop, but I actu- Gothenburg on the map.” Amusement Today: “It was a seat 18 passengers in three dron is suspended from the ally like the overall pacing •liseberg.com bit of coincidence. We were October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 13 14 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 Six Flags reveals new roller coasters, rides and more for 2019 Multiple suppliers behind an array of high-profile thrillers AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected]

GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — As August, and the sum- mer operating season, drew to a close, the public rela- tions machine of Six Flags Entertainment spun eagerly forward— revealing addi- tions for 2019 across the entire chain. Many of the attrac- tions on deck are sizable, with numerous manufactur- ers providing the goods. West Coast Racers (left), from Premier Rides, will be America’s first quadruple launch roller coaster. Trains racing side by side Topping the list are roller will experience 14 crossovers. (right), a new air-launched roller coaster from S&S Worldwide, will, among other coasters. extreme elements, feature the world’s fastest inversion at 60 mph. COURTESY SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT CORP. in Valencia, Calif., well as a lifetime thrill experi- tive director of administra- include even better fit of dif- in announced unveiled the unexpected. ence.” tion for S&S Worldwide, was ferent-sized passengers while not only an extension of off- West Coast Racers will be “This newest coaster as enthused as Salemi about comfortably restraining them season weekend operation to the park’s 20th — yes, 20th strengthens our position as the project. through ride elements. a year-round calendar, but — roller coaster. Supplied by The Coaster Capitol of the “We are so excited to “We worked intimately also the impending arrival Premier Rides, the innova- World,” said Neal Thurman, work with the Six Flags with Six Flags’ creative team The Joker Wild Card. Built tive ride is the first quadru- park president. “With 20 Corporation to bring our air in producing the vehicle race by , the massive ple-launch coaster in the U.S. coasters, we will have more launch coasters back to the car design. The racing theme will swing 17 It will take passengers on a than any other theme park on United States,” Perkes told fits the ride perfectly and the stories in the air. It will join double lap race along a twin the planet.” Amusement Today. “Over the F1 style vehicle will add to other DC character-themed track layout, with the trains At Six Flags Great last eight years S&S has per- the passenger experience.” attractions in its positioning switching tracks midride. America in Gurnee, Ill., S&S fected its air launch technol- Six Flags Discovery between Superman Krypton “The challenges in Worldwide is supplying ogy with the opening of mul- Kingdom in Vallejo, Calif., Coaster and Batman the Ride. switching tracks are impres- Maxx Force, an air-launched, tiple coasters in Asia. But the will see a Batman-branded Achieving a maximum arcing sive, but the team Six Flags 175-foot-tall coaster with coaster we are bringing to Six ride for the first time. Batman motion of 75 mph, it will be put together for the project a racing theme of its own. Flags Great America has some the Ride will be the next 4D the fastest ride in the park. is even more impressive,” Riders will launch from zero unique and exciting record- Free Spin coaster from S&S Six Flags Great said Jim Seay, president of to 78 in less than two seconds breaking features that can’t Worldwide. It is the seventh Adventure in Jackson, N.J., Premier Rides, noting that and negotiate five inversions, be experienced anywhere installation of this pulse- will open a similar ride. the coaster had been in devel- speed bumps, banked curves else in North America.” pounding model for the Wonder Woman Lasso opment for years. “A highly and airtime hills. Dragster- According to Perkes, chain. Seating extends from of Truth will join other dynamic, terrain-following style trains will seat 12 pas- the principal element is the both sides of the track, and DC-branded attractions in a layout, integrated with both sengers. launch. The ride will break magnetic fins initiate sudden recently revamped area of the a quad launch system and The ride “is in a class all the North American record flips as thrill seekers descend 4See SIX FLAGS, page 16 a highly immersive pit stop by itself. No other coaster in for fastest acceleration on a down the track, which is built that results in some 30 close the country accelerates at that coaster, as it is designed to on a vertical plane. interactions between the blistering speed,” said Hank launch from zero to 60 mph in trains, all make for what will Salemi, park president. in less than 1.4 seconds and Upper Marlboro, Md., had be an engineering marvel as Preston Perkes, execu- from zero to 80 mph in less previously announced the than 1.9 seconds, potentially closure of Apocalypse, the hitting up to 3Gs. “It’s like park’s standup coaster. But being shot out of a gun,” he in a familiar Six Flags play- said. book move, the ride wasn’t Following the launch, completely going away. A successive records are bro- makeover involving the ken as the train rises into exchange of the standup the world’s highest double vehicles for floorless ones inversion and then enters the will create a new experience world’s fastest inversion — a called Firebird. This will be zero-G roll at 60 mph. the first standup-to-floorless “The design of this ride conversion orchestrated by is derived from more than Six Flags. 20 years of air launch experi- (On a historical note, ence but adapted to a coast- the coaster was original- er,” Perkes said. “S&S knows ly Bolliger & Mabillard’s how to launch people on very first roller coaster proj- rides and does it faster than ect, Iron Wolf, when it first any other method available appeared at sister park Six will introduce Six Flags to man. With this air launch Flags Great America in 1990.) SkyScreamer, which will help Lone Star Revolution, seen here in production at the Larson coaster, S&S developed new High-profile thrill rides rebrand the park under the International facility will stand 100 feet tall at Six Flags Over trains which have a newly also are on order. Six Flags name. Texas. AT PHOTO designed restraint system to AT/TIM BALDWIN October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 15 16 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 v AMUSEMENT PARK MARKET PLACE n Naughton Insurance, Inc.

EST. 1947 Specializing in Insurance Programs for Amusement Parks, Water Parks and Family Fun Centers. Three pendulum rides from Zamperla (left) will debut at , Six Flags Fiesta Texas and Six Flags Great Adventure. King (right), supplied by Polin, will debut www.naughtoninsurance.com at Harbor Oaxtepec in Mexico. COURTESY SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT CORP; POLIN

SIX FLAGS upright to turn passengers At The Great Escape in Continued from page 14 upside down. Queensbury, N.Y., the water Three other high-profile park is getting a makeover park. additions will be popular and new name: Six Flags installations from the Six Hurricane Harbor. Families in Arlington will be receiv- Flags repertoire. Three parks will enjoy Bucket Blasters, a ing the second Giga Loop return again to Zamperla, WaterMania attraction from manufactured by Larson Larson and . Zamperla with interactive International. Following the Funtime, represented by water guns and seating for success of the company’s 100- Ride Entertainment, will 24 people. foot loop, the world’s largest deliver Six Flags Skyscreamer “We are excited that our loop ride will soon have a at the newly branded Six outdoor waterpark is get- cousin. Flags Darien Lake in New ting fresh, new updates to “Building the second Giga York. The high-flying, whirl- become Hurricane Harbor,” Loop for Six Flags Over Texas ing will tower 240 said Eric Gilbert, president is certainly progressing faster feet. Pandemonium will open of The Great Escape. “[It] will than the first unit with all the at Six Flags Over Georgia in offer exciting new attractions design, fixtures and new CNC Austell and serve as a center- with Bucket Blasters and [computer numerical control] piece to a new ScreamPunk Shipwreck Cove, plus a com- equipment in place,” said Jeff district. A Zamperla Giant pletely new look featuring Novotny, president of Larson, Discovery, the pendulum ride imaginative tropical them- following the announcement. will swing 15 stories into the ing and a myriad of park “The Giga Loop ride takes air and reach speeds of 70 enhancements to delight over 10,000 man hours to mph. La Ronde in , guests of all ages.” build and requires the major- Canada, will debut Chaos, Little ones have not been ity of our weld shop floor a seven-story Larson Fireball overlooked in the Six Flags space when it is together in a loop ride. attractions news. circle horizontally. There will “It is exciting for the Ride in be a little fine-tuning on the Entertainment team to work , once again automatic air release system with Darien Lake for a second under Six Flags management, associated controls, but other year in a row,” said Adam will introduce Timber Town. than that, the second ride will Sandy, the company’s chief The revamped kids’ area be just as exciting as the first business development officer. will feature four new rides, ride.” “In 2018 they added , including a roller coaster. Six Flags’ renewed their first major coaster in a Six Flags Mexico in emphasis on DC characters decade. Now Darien Lake is Mexico City is receiv- continues with two other fig- adding a signature StarFlyer ing two new kids’ areas: ures at two different parks. from Funtime in the park’s DC Superfriends and Bugs inaugural year as a Six Flags- Bunny Boomtown. Between in Agawam, Mass., will open branded property. We can them, they will contain 13 Cyborg. After passengers think of no higher compli- rides, six of which will be board an indoor Chance ment than the company pur- completely new. Freestyle spinning ride, the chasing their 11th StarFlyer “We appreciate Six Flags’ experience will feature light- from us.” trust in us to deliver world- ing and sound to help convey There is always a time to class attractions at the thrill, a story of a sentient cyber- get wet. Six Flags announced family and kiddie level,” said netic system called The GRID a slide from Polin Michael Coleman, North taking over the S.T.A.R. Waterparks to be installed at America sales manager, Labs. At Six Flags St. Louis Hurricane Harbor Oaxtepec Zamperla. “The 2019 supply in Eureka, Mo., Supergirl in Mexico. King Cobra is a from Zamperla is a showcase Skyflyer will be the first ride double-lane racing slide that of rides which have prov- themed to the young heroine. climaxes with riders sliding en performance at other Six Keep our amusement park industry strong! Seating 48 passengers, the into the maw of a snake’s Flags locations throughout Buy products and services from these suppliers. ride is a Zamperla Endeavor head, complete with dripping the U.S, Canada and Mexico.” — a rotating wheel that raises fangs. •sixflags.com October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 17 Maine’s Funtown Splashtown USA refurbishes car ride area SACO, Maine — Earlier this season, Funtown Splashtown updated an area near the exit of the park’s Arrow Antique Car Ride course. New to the attraction is an on-ride photo system supplied by NXT Capture. In addition, younger visi- tors now can obtain their own “driving license” (for a small fee). “Guests, especially the kids, love the licenses,” said Ed Hodgdon, park market- The courtyard area outside the exit of Funtown Splashtown USA’s Antique Car Ride has undergone several improvements, ing and information technol- including the addition of a booth selling on-ride photos and kiddie “driving licenses.” Funtown Splashtown's Senior Vice- ogy manager. President, Bill Cormier, stands in front of the refurbished area (above right). COURTESY RON GUSTAFSON; AT/GARY SLADE The ride exit courtyard and adjacent patio seating space have been repaved with asphalt and brick pav- ers; the upgraded walk- way also improves drain- age. A nearby restroom has received a new facade that compliments the new ride photo booth. The Antique Car Ride was installed in 1983. The popular, well-maintained attraction itself needed no special upgrading during this round of park enhancements. —B. Derek Shaw 18 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 19 Harley Quinn coaster brings the ‘cray’ Six Flags Discovery Kingdom debuts Skywarp ride prototype AT: Dean Lamanna Entertainment, Skyline’s sales [email protected] representative and business col- laborator, praised the decade- VALLEJO, Calif.— plus relationship his company Skywarp, the latest ride inno- has enjoyed with Six Flags. vation from Orlando-based “We are incredibly hon- Skyline Attractions, LLC, offi- ored that they have trusted us cially opened to the public at Six as their partner in placing yet Flags Discovery Kingdom after another prototype attraction at a testing and preview period in a Six Flags property, and we are mid-August. thrilled that riders are having as The twisting, figure eight- much fun as they are,” he said. shaped thriller, sporting DC “Proving that Six Flags’ vision is, Skywarp, named Harley Quinn Crazy Coaster by Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, features two Entertainment theming with yet again, on the nose.” vehicles that glide rapidly through twin Immelmann inversions after a momentum-building the name Harley Quinn Crazy •skylineattractions.com forward / backward sequence. COURTESY SIX FLAGS DISCOVERY KINGDOM Coaster, accommodates 32 pas- sengers in opposing vehicles. Each coaster-style vehicle rocks back and forth, building up to full speed before complet- ing several swift forward and reverse rotations through twin Immelmann inversions. The experience creates a dueling, near-miss effect that is repeated several times during each ride cycle. The attraction has an hourly capacity of 800 pph. Skywarp moved from initial concept and design to the intro- duction of this prototype in just 18 months, demonstrating the dedication, focus and ability of Skyline’s team. “We strongly believed in this concept from the beginning,” said Jeff Pike, president and founding partner of Skyline. “It was wonderful to have a partner like Six Flags who believed in that vision, as well, and helped us achieve it in such a short turn- around. We couldn’t have made this happen this quickly without that strong partnership.” Skywarp is unusual in that it actually utilizes one train (to which the two vehicles are affixed) with one drive system. Its parallel-looped, 360-foot-long closed track structure rises 62 feet, yet the entire installation has a footprint of just 120 by 30 feet. Adam Sandy, chief business development officer of Ride

With the full support of Six Flags, Skyline Attractions took its unique dueling thrill ride prototype from concept to public opening in just 18 months. COURTESY SIX FLAGS DISCOVERY KINGDOM 20 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 Fueled by nostalgia, antique auto ride returns to AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected]

MASON, — Well into its fifth decade of opera- tion, management at Kings Island knows that the heart- felt memories of times past are always strong across generations of guests. Now, Backlot Stunt Coaster) dur- it is bringing back a beloved ing the years the park was attraction. under the “When we ask guests umbrella. The new Kings what they would like to see Mills Antique Autos will be return to Kings Island, the located in the Coney Mall most popular response — by area of the park, with the far — is the antique cars,” historic Racer coaster as the said Mike Koontz, park vice backdrop. The three-minute, presented and general man- quarter-mile-long drive will ager. “For so many, it’s an take guests through lush attraction they remember landscaping, water features riding with family, or it was and a covered bridge. their first driving experience While the autos will as a kid. It holds such a spe- retain the look of the origi- cial place in their hearts.” nal Les Taxis, the cars will be “The antique cars offi- new. Supplied by Winnipeg, cially left in 2004,” said Chad Canada-based Gould Mfg. Kings Island is bringing back its popular antique auto ride in response to nostalgic public Showalter, park director of — a maker of amusement demand. Gould Mfg. of Winnipeg, Canada, is supplying the vehicles for the attraction. communications. “Since then, rides since 1965 — the vehi- COURTESY GOULD MFG. it has been an ongoing con- cles are 2/3-scale replicas of versation for the past 14 years. the 1911 Ford Model T. The center guide rail slip clutch allows operators to com- ness for this type of ride as We have been looking at the four-passenger cars come steering prevents abuse. pletely control the vehicles more and more parents and right time to bring them back, with single pedal control “Kings Island decid- at any time with either a grandparents want to give and 2019 is the right year.” with automatic braking and ed to include our optional tabletop keypad or a hand- their children and grandchil- The original car attrac- feature a rugged rear axle Remote-Control Engine Cut- held device.” dren the same experiences tion was removed for the equipped with hydraulic off System [with the instal- He added his thoughts on and memories of driving on addition of Italian Job: Stunt braking. According to the lation],” said Peter Loewen, the attraction’s appeal: “We the same style of ride when Coaster (now known as manufacturer, the controlled president of Gould. “This believe there is great fond- they were young.” launch coaster to anchor new area AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected]

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Over the years, Carowinds and Cedar have under- taken a subtle and gradual makeover to the Carolinas theme park. With a revamped water park, a newer section dedi- cated to county fairs and a strong focus on culinary experiences, Carowinds has announced its biggest investment to date. Blue Ridge Junction, a new area, will debut next The ground-hugging Copperhead Strike will feature two season. The star attraction launches and five inversions. Its layout will be in view of is Copperhead Strike, a spectators not up to the challenge of confronting the double-launch coaster from coaster’s bite. COURTESY CAROWINDS Mack Rides. Themed to the easygoing culture of the Blue comfortable trains, this cus- ground-hugging, sinuous, Ridge Mountains region, the tom version has attributes 3,255-foot journey includes section will also contain a all its own. five inversions and a second new restaurant, Blue Ridge Departing from the sta- launch (from 35 to 50 in two Country Kitchen. tion into a slow rollover seconds) midway through Roller coaster fans will called a Jojo roll, trains enter while traveling over speed recognize the new ride as a themed building where hills. a steel coaster of the Blue the first launch takes place. The coaster has a sto- Fire style made popular at Linear Synchronous Motors ryline, too. Trespassers — er, Europa-Park. Known for take riders from zero to 42 smooth maneuvers and mph in 2.5 seconds. The 4See CAROWINDS, page 22 October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 21 22 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018

Outdoor Amusement Business Museum in San Diego, Calif. The top five museums in the world, accord- Association president retires ing to TripAdvisor, are the Musée d’Orsay in , ; New York City’s National 9/11 WINTER PARK, Fla. — Bob Park Memorial & Museum and the Metropolitan Johnson, President and CEO of Museum of Art; the British Museum in Lon- OABA (Outdoor Amusement Post-its don, U.K.; and Prado National Museum in Ma- Business Association) will drid, Spain. retire in February 2019. It was According to TripAdvisor booking data, announced in mid-September ticket sales to museums grew by 29 percent in by Jay Strates, 2018 OABA 2017. • Chairman. Johnson spent the AT: Pam Sherborne past 24 years with the mobile Gold Cub Mini Golf Course, touted as amusement industry trade [email protected] the only Jack Nicklaus-designed miniature golf course in the world, opened in Juniper, Fla., on association, most recently as Sept. 6. President, with the first ten Galaxyland, the indoor park at West Ed- Nicklaus Design Associate Chad Goetz years serving as Executive monton Mall, Alberta, Can., opened a new ride spoke to local television station WPTV, West Director. Prior to that Johnson Bob Johnson the last weekend of April and it has been met Palm Beach, Fla. Goetz was quoted in that re- spent 16 years with Six Flags, with much excitement. Called Havoc, the ride is port stating: “We hope the result is something Inc. as Vice President of Administration, starting in 1978. a Space Trainer ride by Italian ride manufacturer very different than the typical miniature golf ex- Johnson’s education includes Parsons College, Iowa State Moser Rides S.r.l. perience, and one that is enjoyable for golfers University and Cornell College with a BS in Psychology and The ride consists of 30 seats, divided into and nongolfers alike.” Business. five benches, all placed in a circular fashion fac- There are elevations and sophisticated el- “While Bob and his wife Alex are looking forward to visit- ing inward. ements to the course that can be frustrating, ing with family on the West Coast, traveling and pursuing their Havoc has three axis of rotation, and there- even for a pro like Jack. retirement dreams, Bob will not completely 'sail off into the fore can rotate passengers to literally any angle. The Nicklaus Children’s Healthcare Foun- sunset,' as he is passionate about the great families that com- The West Edmonton Mall ride is 46 feet dation will get $1 from each ticket sale. The prise our membership and the amusement industry where he tall, with riders suspended at 40 feet at their course predicts it will donate $30,000 annually. has worked for 41 years, and I have asked him to assist us in the highest point. • transition,” said Strates. Riders can come to within three feet of the A $140 million beach side amusement park A search for a well-qualified successor is on-going with park’s ceiling, and within five feet of the park’s is being planned next to the Margaritaville Re- plans to announce the new President at the OABA annual meet- coaster’s tracks, which completely surround the sort and Hotel, Biloxi, Miss. The Barrington ing in February. Interested candidates should send credentials ride. Group firm is the developer of the project. A story posted by the Mississippi News to: • Officials at Frontier City, Oklahoma City, Journal reported that the amusement park Strickland Associates Okla., have announced a new attraction for chil- project has been given the green light. Local Re: OABA President dren in 2019, Timber Town. convention and visitors bureau officials say 2344 Sherbrooke Road The new children’s zone will include new the park will add another dimension of fun Winter Park, FL 32792 rides and attractions. to the area. No timetable has been given for [email protected] There also will be new characters such as completion. Bucky the Beaver, Hootie the Owl, and Bubba • Strickland Associates is a human resources firm that has the Bear, who will help put a new spin and up- Hundreds of Estes Park residents are crying been retained by the OABA to assist with the process. dated theme on the park’s most popular kiddie foul over a mountain coaster that would send The OABA is the largest, national trade association rep- rides. riders hurtling down a 1,900-foot slope in unin- resenting the mobile amusement industry for more than 53 • corporated Larimer County, CO., on the edge years, based in Winter Park, Florida. Its mission is to promote The National Crafts and Cowboy Festival of the tourist community. the preservation and growth of the outdoor amusement indus- at Silver Dollar City, Branson, Mo., is well un- The group Estes Park Citizens Against try through leadership, advocacy and education. derway as the 1880s-style theme park brings in The Slide, or EPCATS, has appealed the coast- craftsmanship, cowboys, chuck wagon cooking er’s approval to the town of Estes Park and Lar- CAROWINDS “This is a clear - and Native American artistry. imer County commissioners, citing conflict of Continued from page 20 stration of our commitment The festival began Sept. 12 and will run interest, lack of citizen involvement and poorly to be the premier enter- through Oct. 27. worded town codes. riders — at Granny Byrd’s tainment destination of the New this year is the Cherokee Indian Trad- The mountain coaster, proposed by town farm are out to get her secret Carolinas for families and ing Post presenting Native American artisans trustee and Mayor Pro-Tem Cody Walker and his Yakutat Land Corp., would be on 160 acres jam recipe. But the sound thrill-seekers alike,” said Pat demonstrating heritage crafts such as flute making, pottery and bow making, along with of Yakutat land north of U.S. Highway 34. of a cocked gun lets them Jones, Carowinds’ vice pres- cooking demonstrations of Cherokee recipes. Sombrero Stables horseback riding trails know it’s time to go. Three ident and general manager. More than 125 visiting craftsmen, including that currently traverse the property would be trains fashioned after 1930s “Copperhead Strike adds a Best of Missouri Hands juried artists, are joining rerouted to allow for the mountain coaster and Coupes, each seating 16 pas- completely different experi- Silver Dollar City’s 100 traditional craftsmen, ancillary facilities. sengers, will be the mode of ence than our other world- with crafts including clock making, weaving, EPCATS hopes to stop the coaster through transportation. class coasters, giving our copper color art, fiddle making, basket weav- its two appeals or at least change some rules “ was look- guests a diverse park-wide ing, gourd painting and jewelry making. that allowed the project to get approval with- ing for a multiple launch, experience that satisfies like A variety of live musical performances are out citizen input. low-to-the-ground, very fast never before.” held throughout the park. • coaster,” said Bob Dean of A new 130-room hotel, • Fairytale Town, Sacramento, Calif., de- Leisure Labs, LLC, which Springhill Suites by TripAdvisor announced last month its list buted a new play structure last month for the represent Mack Rides. Marriott at Carowinds, is of the top museums in the U.S. and through- first time in 21 years, starring a popular charac- “There are quite a few ele- currently under construc- out the world based on an algorithm that ter from West African folk tales named Anansi ments in this coaster. Cedar tion for next season as gathered the quality and quantity of reviews the spider. Fair was involved in the well. Also new is a dormi- and ratings for museums worldwide over a The story-book themed children’s park al- design alongside Mack tory for students from across 12-month period. lows children to interact with places and char- Rides, and that partnership the region and around the According to TripAdvisor, the top five mu- acters from well-know fairy tales and nursery has come up with a winner. world. According to the seums in the U.S. are: New York City’s National rhymes. The new play area is called Anansi’s Web It’s going to be very fun. The park, the housing will allow 9/11 Memorial & Museum and the Metropoli- tan Museum of Art; the National WWII Mu- and features three vertical climbing webs hang- feeling of speed is going to it to develop internship pro- seum in New Orleans, La.; the Art Institute of ing between posts adorned with some of the be what the whole thing is grams for travel and tourism Chicago in Chicago, Ill.; and the USS Midway different animals in Anansi’s stories. about.” students. October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 23 Thrill ride among other upgrades at Texas park New X-Factor Extreme leads improvement spree at Joyland AT: Pam Sherborne [email protected]

LUBBOCK, Texas — Joyland Amusement Park owners had guests swinging into and out of the season this year on a new ride, X-Factor Extreme, bringing the total number of rides to about 30 at this family-owned-and- operated amusement park. David Dean, the park’s owner, said the response to the new ride was great.

“It was extremely popu- lar this season,” he said. “It turned out to be in our top five rides.” The 50-foot-tall thrill attraction helped make this season a good one, Dean said, but it wasn’t the only upgrade made to the park for 2018 season. Other improve- ments included painting, David Dean (left), owner of Joyland Amusement Park, said X-Factor Extreme — manufactured by a -based ride maintenance and the company originally known as Calvera Rides but now called Happy Rides — quickly became one of the park’s top five rides. opening up of an updated X-Factor Extreme came with an elaborate lighting package (right) that cycles through several colors and patterns. party room. AT/GARY SLADE; COURTESY JOYLAND AMUSEMENT PARK “We had a great summer, but it was shortened by 11 X-Factor Extreme was more of a permanent struc- Amusement Park in Tulsa, Park staff reworked some days compared to last year manufactured by a company ture,” Dean said. “We added Okla., and was installed at shaded areas and a party due to the schools opening formerly known as Calvera a good sound system to it. It Joyland in the 1970s. Plans room was added. The party earlier,” he said. “Last year, Rides, now named Happy came with a good lighting were to remove the Mad room was an existing space schools opened the week Rides, based in the Czech system, too. It is a really good Mouse if Dean had been able but was updated. Air condi- before Labor Day. This year, Republic. Dean purchased ride.” to purchase another coaster. tioning was installed, it was schools opened August 15. it used from Kevin Exum The ride capacity is 16 “If we do find another repainted and a television You just have to deal with it of Happy World Shows. It people, with four rows of coaster, we will go on with was added. the best you can.” was installed in an undevel- four, two rows facing each those plans,” he said. “We “We had some games in The park has been open- oped part of the park, where other. Once everyone is would put the coaster into there, but we took most of ing during the local schools’ two acres remain in which to secured into their seats, the our undeveloped area and them out and just left a cou- spring break in March and expand. loading platform lowers and not place it where the Mad ple of Skee-Balls,” Dean said. that has been successful. “It is a portable ride, but the claw (gondola) beings to Mouse is now. It’s just too “We not only use this room They plan on doing that we built a really nice slab swing. Then, the claw begins hard sometimes to put a new for parties now but also for again in 2019. around it to make it appear to rotate as the arm swings. ride where an old one had training.” It continues swinging until been.” This year the park also the ride hits a peak of 100 Along with the addition switched from Coca-Cola to degrees. Dean said it has the of the X-Factor Extreme, Dean Pepsi, after 45 years. capability of hitting a peak said a lot of park painting “We just felt Coke wasn’t of 120 degrees depending on was done to prepare for the giving us what we needed,” how it is set. 2018 season. The sky ride and Dean said. “Pepsi did a great Dean said he had origi- the log ride were painted, the job of making the switch nally been looking for a spin- latter of which is done just happen. The transition was ning coaster to add for the about annually now. While almost seamless.” 2018 season. much of the painting was Dean said they installed “We thought we had one, done in-house, Dean said a wireless credit card system but the deal fell through. they also hired the services in their outlying food ser- Since we already had the of Baynum Painting. vices. It was done in-house financing available, we began There was quite a bit of and, “after a few glitches,” it to look at what was available. maintenance done on the has worked out fine. That is when we found this park’s Chance Space Shuttle “We also increased our one.” ride during the off season. wages this year to over mini- He would still like to have “I was actually thinking mum wage,” Dean said. Purchased used from Happy World Shows, X-Factor Extreme, a new coaster. There is an we might not keep it, but our He said it might not be though a portable ride, has been given a concrete slab Alan Herschell Mad Mouse maintenance project really a cure-all for hiring enough border and a new sound system. The 50-foot-tall ride has a in the park. It came from brought it back to life. I think seasonal employees, but he seating capacity of 16. AT/GARY SLADE the now-shuttered Bell’s we will keep that now.” did feel it helped. 24 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 Expansion coming to ’s Luna Park in 2019, 2020 150,000 square feet of new attractions include a major ride AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected]

NEW YORK CITY — Luna Park, the reborn attrac- tions area within the classic amusement enclave of Coney Island, has revealed plans for a two-year expansion that will bring several major new attractions and amenities. Subject to further design approvals, Luna Parks two-year growth plan will see the addition of a log flume ride in 2020, with a The project represents ropes-and-ziplines course opening next season. Also part of the expansion is an open-air food court and entertainment area. another significant invest- COURTESY NEW YORK CITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORP. ment by Luna Park opera- tor Central Amusement to be unveiled in 2020. New and the careful details of its in this historic community, with the City of New York International (CAI). The size food outlets, arcade games, proposal. City and NYCEDC create new job opportunities to continue the expansion of of the property, currently at pedestrian plazas and relax- officials also felt CAI’s vision and ensure the area remains Luna Park and the revital- 300,000 square feet, will total ation spots are among the would create greater aes- engaging and family-friendly ization of the historic Coney 450,000 square feet when the additions. thetic consistency inspired by for future generations.” Island amusement district,” buildout is completed — a 50 CAI won the opportunity historic Coney Island style. The ropes course will said Alessandro Zamperla, percent expansion. As with to develop the vacant lots, “The Coney Island be suitable for visitors with president of Luna Park, add- the park’s present land area, located between Surf Avenue Boardwalk is both a cher- varying skill levels, while ing that an elaborate new the new acreage will involve and the boardwalk between ished summertime desti- the custom-designed log portal will welcome visitors parcels leased by CAI from West 15th and West 16th nation and an important flume from Zamperla will be arriving from the subway. the city. streets, after the New York economic engine for South extravagantly lit and feature “Our shared commitment Plans call for adven- City Economic Development Brooklyn,” said James a 30-mph drop. Altogether, to the constant growth and ture activities including Corp. (NYCEDC) sought pro- Patchett, NYCEDC president the upgrades were expected development of Coney Island ziplines and a ropes course posals for them. The decision and CEO. “These exciting to benefit not only Luna Park has allowed us to burnish to open next season, with was based on CAI’s strong new attractions will build on but surrounding businesses. this iconic place.” a 40-foot-tall log flume ride track record with Luna Park unprecedented investments “It is an honor to work •lunaparknyc.com Jersey Shore’s new amusement rides were hits, rain or shine AT: Pam Sherborne [email protected] SEASIDE HEIGHTS, N.J. — New rides at several shore- area amusement parks brought great responses from guests this past sea- son, even if they failed to keep the inclement weather at bay. “It’s been a very tough sea- son,” said Kimberle Samarelli, executive director of the New Jersey Amusement Association. “If the weather wasn’t bad, the predictions were bad. The weather reports didn’t play in our favor.”

Land of Make Believe in Hope, N.J., welcomed summer visitors with a new SBF/Visa Mini Dance Party 360, while Jenkinson’s Boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach, N.J., rolled out Crazy Cabs, a new SBF/Visa Mini Break Dance. Both attractions were brokered through Rides 4-U. COURTESY LAND OF MAKE BELIEVE, JENKINSON’S BOARDWALK

rides for 2018. Others were Fantasy for demographic reasons and that it pleased with his new Mini Break Island Amusement Park in Beach has proven a solid draw for eight- Dance ride, called Crazy Cabs. Added Haven and Jenkinson's Boardwalk to-14-year-olds. “The response to the Len Soled: “It’s a ’tweener-type of in Point Pleasant Beach. ride, when it wasn't raining, was very ride, but good for all ages. We had it at All three parks started the sea- good,” he noted. the IAAPA [International Association son with new SBF/Visa Group rides Diane Frey of Fantasy Island of Amusement Parks and Attractions] There were 10 rainy days during brokered through Len Soled of Amusement Park said the fun spot’s show in Orlando last year.” the summer that landed on either a Somerville, N.J.-based Rides 4-U, Inc. new Pirate Jet was a hit despite the It certainly had a good showing Friday, Saturday or Sunday, which is Land of Make Believe purchased lousier weather. “It was great,” she in Point Pleasant Beach. The ride’s never good for Jersey Shore attractions. a Mini Dance Party 360. Called said of the ride, a Mini Jet model with colorful, whirling platform, elevated Chris Maier, owner of Land of Scream Machine 360, the 30-foot-tall a capacity of 12 and theming attrac- at a 45-degree angle with four cars Make Believe in Hope, N.J., said it ride spins while taking passengers tive to both kids and adults. “Our seating four riders each, provided the was “the rainiest season in memory.” up and over, adding new thrills to the guests absolutely loved it.” kind of “lift” summer visitors were Maier’s park was one among several park’s lineup. Jenkinson’s Boardwalk owner seeking, regardless of the weather. Garden State facilities opening new Maier said he wanted the ride Anthony Storino said he was very •rides4u.com October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 25 26 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 11-Day Iowa State Fair enjoys increased attendance, new grandstand

56 new foods highlight val areas that were renovated 2018 edition of the fair last year which showed in our uptick in participation. We had a AT: B. Derek Shaw record setting credit redemption [email protected] day during the fair this year.” There were over 200 food DES MOINES, Iowa — stands with 75 items on-a-stick. Weather certainly played in The Iowa State Fair had a con- favor of the Iowa State Fair test narrowing down the 56 new this year as the venue enjoyed foods to the Top Three that fair- a slight increase over last goers could vote on: Apple Egg year’s total of 1,130,071. “I am Rolls, Belly Up Burger, and Pork ecstatic with the record break- Belly on-a- stick. The Apple Egg ing attendance numbers this Rolls were the 2018 winner. year [1,130,260]. I credit good Many concert goers traveled weather, new programming, to the fair by car with a record diverse entertainment and an The Iowa State Fair had 39 rides on their two independent midways — 22 in Thrill Ville and 75,554 cars parked on the fair- overall great economy in Iowa,” 17 in Thrill Town (kiddie area). This is the second year the 164-year-old fair has operated with grounds. With the addition of said Gary Slater, Fair Manager independents. COURTESY IOWA STATE FAIR parking along the northeast side and CEO. “I must also mention of the fairgrounds last year and a our grounds improvements that Metro Maze, Wisdom, M&C has been a favorite ride at the tram service, the previous record have impacted attendance from Attractions; Jungle Twist Fair. The 1,500-foot-long indoor of 71,226 was easily broken. our carnival areas updated in (Wisdom spinning coast- canal attraction recently under- Fair After Dark was a new 2017 and our Grandstand reno- er) Luehrs’ Ideal Rides; and went upgrades with its outdoor series this year that allowed fair- vations in 2018, both of those Kiddie , Del Rio queue. “Both of them were goers behind the scenes access have significantly improved Talley Amusements and Lowery Cristiani. In Thrill Ville (main very wide queue-ways (refer- to the most iconic areas of the the Fairgoer experience.” The Carnival Company. This is the midway) the Top rides were ring to the other Mill Ride at 164th Iowa State Fair. Highlights theme this year was “Nothing second year the Iowa State Fair Crazy Mouse, (Spinning coaster, the Minnesota State Fair.) Both include everything from the Compares to Iowa State Fair has had an independent mid- Reverchon) S. J. Entertainment have been configured to have a Butter Cow cooler to snuggling Moments.” way. Inc.; Giant Wheel, Lamberink 40-inch queue line,” said Tracy baby animals in the Paul R. This fair is one of a handful New rides to this years’ fair (Talley Amusements), State Fair Shedd, ride manager of SkyFair Knapp Animal Learning Center. throughout the country that runs included Scooter , Spectaculars; and Hang Glider Inc. “The change helps eliminate The Iowa State Fair hosts numer- with a completely independent Wisdom, Sam’s Amusements; (Battech Enterprises), Luehrs large groups congregating in ous livestock shows, as well as midway. This year over a dozen Rock N Tug, Zamperla, Lowery Ideal Rides. one spot. “It’s more of a control home to the Super Bull, Big operators brought in rides, vary- Carnival Company; Wave “Last year, the ride areas so you know who is with who Ram, Big Boar, Biggest Rabbit ing from one to six. They include: Swinger, Preston Barbieri, State were renovated and in 2018, and just to get as many people and Largest Pigeon. M & C Attractions, Luehrs’ Ideal Fair Spectaculars; Giant Wheel, a record number of credits through as we can.” Admission packages Rides, Del Rio Cristiani, Sam’s Lamberink (33 meter,) Talley redeemed in one day, a testament Entertainment on the included an advance admis- Amusements & Carnivals, Amusements; Raiders (re-themed to the fair’s investment in clean- grandstand and other venues sion for $8.00 prior to the Fair Evans United Shows, TopScan to Metro Maze), Wisdom, M & er, safer, and more family friend- across the fair included Thomas (with even a Cyber Monday LLC, RDM Independent Rides, C Attractions; Fireball, Larson ly rides and games,” said Mindy Rhett, Reba McIntire, Florida $4.00 promotion on opening Mid-American Carnival, Wood International, Evans United Williamson, marketing director. Georgia Line, Queensryche, day). Discounted admission Entertainment Company, Shows; and Roundup, Hrubetz, “The digital wristband program Faster Pussycat, Great White, was available after 5 p.m. for State Fair Spectaculars, S.J. Kenny’s Funland. was a considerable upgrade for Autograph, Here Come the $9.00 and also on Veteran’s Day, Entertainment, Kenny’s The top grossing rides in kids and families too.” Mummies, Ashley McBride, Older Iowans Day and Extreme Funland, Lauther Amusements, Thrill Town (kids area) were Since 1921, Ye Gap Experience, Renata, Biz Sunday, which occurred on the Markie, Marc Broussard, Martin final Sunday. An additional Sexton, Blessed Union of Souls $3.00 discount for the donation and DMC of Run-DMC. of three canned goods to the “We have reviewed ways to Food Bank of Iowa was offered improve our millennial [demo- to those who participated that graphic] attendance and cre- Sunday. ated Goat Yoga and Fair After The Iowa State Fair is the Dark programs this year,” single largest event in the state said Williamson. “We also of Iowa and one of the old- had an antique stage for our est and largest agricultural and Grandstand performances with industrial expositions in the limited seating. Construction country, just 10 minutes from this year allowed for 4,000 addi- downtown Des Moines. The tional seats, better restroom and 2019 edition takes place August Fort Worth Texas based Talley Amusements brought in their Lamberink (33 meter, Giant concession facilities and also a 9-19, with the theme, “Nothing Wheel.) They were one of 12 different carnivals supplying rides to the independent midway. bigger, better stage. We contin- Compares.” COURTESY IOWA STATE FAIR ued to improve on our carni- •iowastatefair.org October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 27 28 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 Many late summer fairs combat both hot and wet weather

AT: B. Derek Shaw TopScan LLC, Del Rio Cristiani, New foods included Turkey [email protected] D & J Amusements, Poor Jack’s ribs, Philly Donut Burger, Pork Amusements, Monkey Maze Butt Fries, Stuffed Hot Italian NORTH AMERICA – Fair LLC, Stellar Amusements, Peppers, Big Buchanan Sausage season continues with the consis- Interstate Amusements, East with Kimchi, Campfire Pretzel tent unpredictability of weather Coast Entertainment, Murray (soft pretzel with marshmallows, in the U.S. and Canada. Here is a Bros, Strates Shows and Red peanut butter and chocolate), Taco recap of some recent events. Carpet Amusements. Together Tots, Sriracha Bacon Tots, Stuffed they generated approximately Waffles on a Stick (chicken, break- Maryland State Fair $1.7 million in midway revenue. fast sausage, Snickers, Milky Way, Timonium, Md. New rides included the cookie dough), Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Aug. 23-Sept. 3 Wheel of Lights (Mulligan Deep-Fried Pickle, Hog Stack Attendance: 572,008 Manufacturing, Interstate Sandwich (rib, shredded pork, 2019 Dates: Aug. 22-Sept. 2 Amusements), Trucks bratwurst patty) and, for dessert, The 137th Maryland State This year Deggeller Attractions provided a new midway (Wisdom, Interstate Amusements), Jalapeno Peach Funnel Cake. Fair enjoyed a three percent gain layout with expanded kiddie land with 21 rides for a total of Mini Himalaya (Venture, Belle The top-selling food types in attendance over the 2017 edi- 42. COURTESY DEGGELLER ATTRACTIONS City), Black Widow (Eyerly, Poor were ice cream (American tion. A period of searing heat did Jack’s) Silver Streak (Spillman, East Dairy Association Mideast), not significantly impact enthu- Fairs across America. State Fair General Manager D. Coast Entertainment), Pharoah’s BBQ restaurants (Concessions siasm at the suburban Baltimore This year, the fair featured a Andrew “Andy” Cashman. “Our Fury (Chance, D&J Amusements) by Cox, Famous Gabby’s, J.P.’s fair site. variety of new exhibits and events top-notch first-aid team active- and Polar Express (Wisdom, Ribs), German food (Schmidt’s “We had excellent weather that generated large crowds. ly canvassed the fairgrounds to Amusements of America). Restaurant), bourbon chicken from the beginning through the They included a Lego Interactive encourage hydration and provide The three top-grossing (Martin’s Fine Foods) and roast first weekend, then record heat Display, Mobile Glass-Blowing assistance when needed. rides were SkyGlider (O.D. corn (Ohio Roast Corn). with minimal rain during remain- Studio, the Classic & Muscle Car “We received a positive social Hopkins, owned by the Ohio Of the many “firsts” this der of fair,” said Edie Bernier, Under the Stars Car Show, Kids’ media shout-out from a fairgoer State Fair), Giant Slide (Mike year, two were standouts. The publicity director, Maryland State Celebration Show, College Days who was helped by our team. Joyce, Amusements of America) podcast, “A Fair to Fair & Agricultural Society, Inc. at the Thoroughbred Horse Races, While attendance was low during and Giant Wheel (Chance, Remember,” took listeners behind She added, “The return of schools Celebrity Milk Shake Competition the early hours of those days, it Amusements of America). the scenes of the fair with unique after Labor Day and new exhibits and Master Gardener Learning significantly picked up in the late Alicia Shouts, marketing stories, including a strange item and shows were instrumental in Garden. afternoon and evening hours.” and public relations director for that could be used for admission the increased attendance.” Smashmouth, Jefferson Next year’s fair is scheduled the Ohio Expo Center & State in 1953, the most popular place to The theme of the 12-day Starship, Chris Janson, and Chase for Aug. 22-Sept. 2. Fair, remarked on the gate fig- get engaged at the Ohio State Fair, event, “More Than a Fair, We’re Bryant and Chris Lane were •marylandstatefair.com ures: “Attendance has started to the rivalry between competitors a Culture,” highlighted the many among the name entertainers. recover and is just slightly below vying for the blue ribbon, farm- cultures that make the Maryland Special discount promo- Ohio State Fair where it was in 2016, the year ers using genetics to breed prize- State Fair an educational, relevant tions, instrumental in increasing Columbus, Ohio before the accident. Ridership winning cattle and many more. and popular community event. attendance, included Governor’s Dates: July 25-Aug. 5 outpaced our expectations and Also, Brian Shenkman of the Deggeller Attractions pro- Volunteer Appreciation Day, Attendance: 908,306 was nearly twice that of 2017, but Bulk Candy Store worked with vided a new midway layout Comptroller’s Day, University 2019 Dates: July 24-Aug. 4 overall midway revenue was still Marsha’s Buckeyes, an Ohio with an expanded kiddie land. of Maryland College Park Bogo Attendance jumped 13 per- down from 2016 and before.” candy maker, to create the world’s The operator brought in 42 rides, Day, Food Lion (grocery chain) cent for the 2018 Ohio State Fair There were plenty of high- largest buckeye candy — a 344- including 21 on the main midway Hunger Relief Day and the this year, despite lingering memo- lights. After his show, Jeff pound chocolate-and-peanut and 21 in kiddie land. New this Baltimore Sun Bogo day. ries of last year’s tragic KMG Dunham did a 47-minute butter confection created with year were Riptide Roller Coaster “The main challenge this Fireball accident on opening day. Facebook Live video at Brian more than 75 pounds of peanut (Pinfari), Traffic Jam (SBF- year’s fair faced was following the “The carnival midway Shenkman’s Bulk Candy Store, butter, 75 pounds of margarine, Visa Group), Dragon Coaster first four days of beautiful weath- rebounded…,” said Luis Perez, sampling various types of candy 10 pounds of chocolate and 150 (Kolmax), Tea Cups (Zamperla), er having six consecutive days assistant general manager. and deep-fried food items. The pounds of powdered sugar. It Circus Train (Kolmax) and Pirate of record heat,” said Maryland “Amusements of America went Budweiser Clydesdales drew defeated the previous record of Island (funhouse) Wisdom. above and beyond any standard especially large crowds when the 271 pounds. An official weigh- The three top-grossing state, local, municipal and manu- hitch was preparing for and fin- in by the state’s Weights and rides included Hydra (KMG), facturer inspection protocols to ishing with the fair’s daily parade. Measures department included Giant Wheel () ensure the safety of the rides, and A sold-out concert with Reba having the buckeye ride in the and Dragon Coaster, (SBF-Visa). it was reflected by the reception McEntire and strong shows at the fair’s daily parade, a celebration Deggeller declined to release ride of fairgoers. We thereby exceeded fair’s indoor concert venue made with songs performed by the midway revenue figures. our revenue projections, though for a successful concert series. fair’s marching band, mascot vis- For an additional fee, Charm not quite at the level prior to 2017.” The fair’s partnership with its and free candy buckeyes for City Helicopter Rides gave many The fair is usually hostage to Ohio-based Velvet Ice Cream those in attendance. fairgoers a once-in-a-lifetime the weather. “Our attendance is continued for its sixth year with Celeste Center concerts bird’s-eye view of the fairgrounds always very weather-dependent,” the annual creation of a custom included The Beach Boys, Reba and surrounding area. explained General Manager Virgil exclusive flavor available only at McEntire, TLC / En Vogue, The Some of the best and most Strickler. “We usually see a slight the Ohio State Fair: spicy caramel. Commodores, Trevor Noah, unique food items included The dip in our attendance with rough Special days included WSYX/ Casting Crowns and Styx / Cheap Crabby Patty, a fried Maryland weather, and the heavy rain we WTTE Opening Day, Telhio Trick. Crab Cake topped by a fried had nearly all day on two consec- and Ronald McDonald House •ohiostatefair.com Maryland Soft Shell Crab with utive weekdays was no exception. Charities Day, WOSU Kids Day, lettuce and tomato on a bun. Despite that, an impressive crowd Meijer Day, Molina Healthcare Wisconsin State Fair A dozen carnival operators Also popular was a Kettle Corn of happy fairgoers turned out to Day, Buckeye Health Plan Day, West Allis, Wisc. Sundae, with vanilla ice cream supplemented rides from experience our fair’s entertain- Veterans & Military Day, NBC4 2018 Dates: August 2-12 topped with fresh-made kettle the 2018 contract holder, ment, livestock shows, education Family Discount Day, National 2018 Attendance: 1,037,982 corn and whipped cream, then Amusements of America. The and activities.” Church Residences’ Senior Day, 2019 Dates: August 1-11 drizzled with fudge. The Crabby Giant Wheel, Chance Rides A total of 72 rides were AAA Member Day, Ohio Lottery The first-ever World Cheese Patty received national attention brought in by Amusements brought to the fair this year, with 31 Day and Ohio Soybean Day. Curd Eating Championship took from foodnetwork.com and the of America shown with being kiddie rides. Amusements Finishing out on the last day of place at the 167th edition of distinction of being named by downtown Columbus clearly of America was the main contract the fair was Pepsi Day, offering a the Wisconsin State Fair. That people.com as one of The Craziest visible in the background. holder, however participating sub- $3 admission with an empty Pepsi Fair Foods You Can Find at State COURTESY OHIO STATE FAIR contractors included Belle City, product. 4See FAIRS, page 29 October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 29 FAIRS being the top-selling item was “Throwback Thursday,” Continued from page 28 (nearly 400,000 were sold this during which fairgoers enjoyed year). Sporkie’s Champion half-price admission. Other event featured the inimitable Joey Albanese’s Roadhouse served promotions included Wells Chestnut. up 11,500 orders of Deep-Fried Fargo $2 Day benefiting Hunger The theme this year: “Make Spinach Lasagna Bites, and run- Task Force, Discover Wisconsin Your Day WonderFair.” ner-up Slim’s PBR Park dished Day, Kohl’s Family Value “We were blessed with sev- out nearly 11,000 orders of Day, Meijer Day, and Miller eral days of beautiful weather, French Onion Soup On-A-Stick. High Life Veterans and Military but it was by no means perfect Fairgoers enjoyed 55,000 grilled Recognition Day. all 11 days,” said Kristi Chuckel, cheese sandwiches at the Real Shows this year were per- fair communications director. Wisconsin Cheese Grill, 40,000 formed by the likes of Montgomery “The first weekend was very hot, Wisconsin Baked Potatoes and Gentry, Alice Cooper, BoDeans / and while our attendance was 16,000 Butterfly Pork Sandwiches Original Wailers, Cole Swindell, still good, it wasn’t great. After at the Pork Shoppe. An unusual Temptations / Four Tops, TLC a couple days of rain during the item, deep-fried Ants on a Stick, / En Vogue, Foreigner and Reba One of the 49 rides found on the midway, dubbed Spin City, week, things really cleared up and generated a lot of attention. McEntire. at the Wisconsin State Fair. the final weekend was absolutely A new promotion for 2018 •wistatefair.com/fair COURTESY WISCONSIN STATE FAIR beautiful. Our second Saturday was a record-breaking day, with more than 132,000 attending.” The SpinCity amusement area, run by numerous indepen- dents, offered a total of 49 rides, including 22 kiddie rides and 27 adult rides. More than 90,000 rides were taken on the enclosed- gondola WonderFair Wheel, owned by Michael Wood. The Giant Slide, built by Fred Pittroff, celebrated its 50th year at the fair with nearly 120,000 riders. New operators for 2018 included Skerbeck Entertainment Group (which brought in a Twin Flip), Moser Rides, Chance Rides (a ) and Mitchell Brothers and Sons (an ARM originally built as a VR tower for the 2017 NFL Super Bowl). The three top-grossing adult rides included the Galaxy Roller Coaster, (S.D.C., Reithoffer Shows, Inc.), Wave Swinger ( Rides, Fair Ride Entertainment, LLC) and New York, New York Four-Story Fun House (Gosetto, Fair Ride Entertainment, LLC). The three top-gross- ing kiddie rides were Puppy Express, (SBF-Visa Group, Prime Pacific, LLC), Raiders Walk- through (Wisdom Rides, Roses Rides, LLC), and Wacky Shack Kiddie Fun House (Owens Trailers, International Attractions). SpinCity’s total gross was up by $155,677, a record amount. More than 3,000 exhibitors par- ticipated in fair contests represent- ing agriculture, art, horticulture, culinary and other categories. Fair staff planted 22,000 flowers and plants throughout State Fair Park. Safety and security were the number-one priority at the fair. Explained Chuckel: “One chal- lenge we have had is finding enough employees to staff our gates, bag checks and metal detec- tors. This year, we created a job center that was open each day for several hours in the weeks leading up to the fair. It proved to be successful in helping us find quality employees, and we plan to continue this model.” Food is always integral to the event, with cream puffs 30 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 MIDWAY MIDWAYSCENE MARKET PLACE AT: B. Derek Shaw [email protected]

Three years after last hosting a real elephant there four years, serving as their first general that sparked protests from animal rights activ- manager. He is now the General Manager of ists, the New Jersey State Fair/Sussex County the York Fair/Expo Center in Pennsylvania. Farm & Horse Show, Augusta, debuted a fake Muir began her duties in mid-September, over- 300-pound elephant at their August 3-12 fair. seeing daily operations, personnel, financial David Feimster of F&F Productions, Jackson, reporting, facilities and fair board relations. N.J. came up with the idea after he heard She has worked as the general manager of the nearby New York City was banning the use of Tillamook County Fair in Tillamook, Oregon, elephants and other wild and exotic animals and Kissimmee Valley Livestock Show and for entertainment . Peanut stands seven feet Osceola County Fair in Kissimmee, Florida. Muir tall and five-and-a-half feet wide, about the is a graduate of the International Association size of a baby elephant. In addition, he walks of Fairs and Expositions’ Institute of Fair and talks, shoots water through his trunk while Management. NAME provided the rides for interacting with fairgoers. Reithoffer Shows the July 20-28 fair. had the carnival midway. • • State legislators are still undecided about While many fairs in North America ban the whether the Colorado State Fair will remain in use of any type of drones, the New York State Pueblo for the 147th edition in 2019. Legislators Fair, Geddes, N.Y. embraced them. The August argue the fair has been losing money while in 22 - September 3 fair included a 9:30 pm Pueblo, with limited financial support from the nightly drone light show (except Labor Day). city. Fair officials point out that legislators would The show — provided by Watervliet, Michigan– like to move it for the economic boost. As for based Great Lakes Drone Company, LLC, the lack of support from Pueblo, Colorado — featured 25 drones with lights attached. State Fair General Manager Scott Stoller says Flying in precision patterns to form objects, that just isn’t the case. “The city of Pueblo has the drones were choreographed to music that shown support both publicly and financially, played from the venue’s main stage sound and it has been significant,” Stoller said. While system. Business Facilities magazine recently no official measure to move the fair has been named New York the “leading state” for drone- brought up in this year’s legislature, the worry technology development. Wade Shows pro- is still present every year. The fair has been in vided the midway rides. Pueblo since 1872, even before Colorado was • a U.S. state. Crabtree Amusements is the car- For 2019, Deggeller Attractions is adding nival midway operator. a fourth roller coaster to its lineup, this time • a Pinfari ZL42 looping coaster. The ride was Robin Jennison is the new General purchased from a showman in Ireland and will Manager for the Kansas State Fair, effec- be the only traveling coaster with a loop in the tive September 23. The fair board had been United States. The attraction is expected to be searching for months before selecting the transported on five semi-trailers, debuting next 64-year-old. Previously Jennison was Secretary year. The show currently owns a Zierer Flitzer of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks Coaster, SDC Riptide Coaster, and an L&T and Tourism. Prior to that he was a state leg- Enterprises . The last one previ- islator from western Kansas, eventually serving ously operated as Pedro’s Mouse at the now- as Kansas Speaker of the House. Jennison will defunct Pedroland Park part of the 50-year-old continue to live in Wichita with his wife Colleen South of the Border complex in Dillon, S.C. who is Kansas market vice president at Cox Frederiksen 1/7x3 b/w • 3/14/02 11:22 AM PageCommunications. 1 Interim general manager, Miranda Muir has been chosen as the new Bob Moeder oversaw the September 7-16 fair, general manager of the Elkhart County, Ind. based in Hutchinson. North American Midway 4-H Fair, taking over for Bryan Blair who was Entertainment was the ride purveyor.

“The #1 Leading Slide Manufacturer in America” FREDERIKSEN “World’s Largest 5 Lane, One Trailer Slide - 108 Ft.” INDUSTRIES, INC. 5212 St. Paul St. • Financing and Leasing Available Digital Edition • Trades Considered Tampa, Florida 33619 App • Order Slide Bags or “New Rain” Bags (813) 628-4545 now • 6 New Slides In Stock FAX (813) 621-3679 available! • Have 20 Used Rides www.funslide.com • 90 Ft. Fiberglass Slide • 65 Ft. Fiberglass Slide

Keep our amusement park industry strong! Buy products and services from these suppliers. October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 31

MIDWAYSCENE WATER PARKS & RECREATION  Europa-Park surges ahead with indoor park — page 34 / Aquatica Orlando gets a 'Ray Rush' — page 36 Splash World water park to highlight Malaysian development Polin Waterparks to supply waterslides, water play structures AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected]

PULAU MELAKA, Malaysia — An elevated water park combining ultra- modern amenities with the latest waterslide innovations is in the works off the tropical shore of manmade Malacca Splash World, part of a sprawling, cruise ship-shaped resort development near Malaysia’s Island. manmade Malacca Island, was designed by Polin Waterparks and will feature numerous Called Splash World, the waterslide and water play products manufactured by the company. indoor / outdoor project will COURTESY POLIN WATERPARKS be situated on the 14th level of a massive, cruise ship- and sharp curves, with added Datuk Wira Eric Tan Eng “We aim to create a water- shaped development, which visual effects created by color Huat, chairman of Hatten park that offers an unforgetta- will reach 30 stories at its patterns and special lighting. Group, was confident that ble experience for our guests highest point. Designed as a The length of all slides com- the result of Splash World’s and their families,” he said. family-friendly holiday des- bined totals more than one meticulous planning and “Our expectations are that tination, the resort comprises kilometer. large number of attractions the experience we offer lives hotels, residential units, an Polin’s multi-award-win- will be happier guests who up to every guest's wildest 800-store retail mall and mul- ning King Cobra waterslide spend less time waiting in line expectations.” tiple amusement and enter- will be a Splash World high- and more time having fun. •polin.com.tr tainment options in a loca- light. The ride’s configuration tion just three hours from sends two double tubes rac- Singapore and two hours ing through a circular path Wave pool concept to create from Malaysia’s national cap- filled with twists, turns and a ital, Kuala Lumpur. The area climactic drop. concentric surfing-quality waves already draws 16.5 million Dato’ Colin Tan June tourists annually. Teng, managing director YEPPOON, Australia — A project described as Australia’s first full-scale surfing wave The overall design of of Hatten Group, felt that pool was expected to begin demonstrations this month after a period of testing. the US$198 million complex, including King Cobra in the Developed by Gold Coast-based Surf Lakes Intl., the concept deploys concentric wave being built by Hatten Group park was “imperative” in technology that is able to produce high-quality surfing waves closely mimicking ocean of Malaysia, pays homage to light of its impressive aesthet- waves. At full operational capacity, the technology can produce up to 2,400 waves per hour the area’s history as a port ics and thrill value. “It’s a rev- because each concentric wave produced breaks into further waves on several reefs around city. It was conceptualized by olutionary ride,” he said. “It’s the lake. Wave shapes are varied and crests can reach as high as 2.4 meters. Kuala Lumpur-based WHZ exhilarating, entertaining and The full-scale realization of the concept in Yeppoon is intended for technology refine- Environmental Design. takes the guest experience to ment and shareholder / media /potential licensee demonstration only, and it will not be open Expected to open in 2020 the next level. It was at the to the general public. Shaping of the lake and reef was completed over the summer, followed and designed and installed by top of our list of must-have by the installation of the massive, hydraulically powered central wave-making machine. Polin Waterparks of Turkey, attractions.” Surf Lakes was originally conceived by former mining engineer Aaron Trevis. Chris Splash World itself will offer Guests will also be able to Hawley, engineer, and Reuben Buchanan, corporate advisor, joined the company as direc- a variety of exciting rides, get an adrenaline rush from tors in 2016. slides and splash pools. The numerous other Polin prod- Surf Lakes plans to license the technology around the world as a standalone attraction 46,452-square-meter facil- ucts, including: or as a feature for incorporation into resort properties, theme parks and leisure destinations. ity includes a two-level, •Surf Safari — a water- —Dean Lamanna interconnected lazy river slide featuring a daring, that will wind through and 40-degree sloped entrance around more than 50 other and parabolic design. water attractions. Polin’s •Looping Rocket — a Navigatour, a water coaster high-drop waterslide incor- slide, will be the means by porating dazzling translucent which guests can move from colors. the lazy river’s lower level •Windigo — enclosed to upper level, while various tubes that fan out to create slides will let gravity do the geometrical curves and wind work of moving guests from back together to conclude in the upper level to lower level multi-racer lanes. of the facility. •Aquatube — an Surf Lakes relies on concentric wave-making technology and reefs positioned around the Eleven of Splash World’s enclosed slide that carries pool to bend and vary wave shapes. Excavation and construction at the demonstration rides will be extreme water- guests through twists and site was completed over the summer. COURTESY SURF LAKES INTL. slides offering high speeds turns in complete darkness. 32 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 33 34 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 Indoor water park pushes theming boundaries Rulantica: Europa-Park’s second gate surges forward AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected]

RUST, Germany — From time to time, the amusement industry brings forth some- thing on a level that sur- passes even experts’ expec- tations. Europa-Park is on track to debut something that extraordinary. More than five years in develop- ment, Rulantica is taking shape at a rapid pace. Rulantica is the resort’s second park. Currently, Europa-Park is the country’s most popular theme park, bringing in more than 5.5 million in attendance annu- ally. To call Rulantica an indoor water park doesn’t begin to convey the scale and scope of the project. Along with the park, the expan- sion includes the resort’s sixth hotel. With a distinc- tive theme, along with a lake between the accommoda- With a master plan ready (above), the signage to Rulantica is tions and the water park, in place as visitors drive to the Europa-Park resort. Hotel Krønosår is dubbed COURTESY EUROPA-PARK; AT/TIM BALDWIN the Museum Hotel. Thomas Mack, manag- vention business still thrives. video projections at night. ing partner, Europa-Park, Rulantica will offer conven- Future plans are for an said, “It is our biggest invest- tioneers further recreation entertainment district to be ment in our more-than-40- opportunities. built. The hotel contains 304 year history. Right now, the “The hotels stay open all rooms. length of stay is about 1.4 year round. Rulantica will From the hotel, guests days. We want to increase help us fill those hotels,” said will cross over a trestle bridge that length of stay to where Mack. “For Hotel Krønosår to enter the water park. Once they stay two days, three and the water park, we inside the massive structure, days or even longer. Together didn’t want to do palm trees visitors are sure to have an with the Black Forest, there and pirates because there are impactful first impression. is so much to see in our already so many water parks Inside the park, theming region.” with those. We wanted to will be over the top. Each sup- Europa-Park has sig- stay in Europe, so we went port column will be themed Lagune (Forest ) and Troll Valley are really exciting nificant convention facili- with a Scandinavian theme. I to its specific “land,” and a Trølldal (Troll Valley). me,” said Glen Sturgis, show ties and five other superior- think the storytelling will be total of eight themed lands Other areas will allow producer. “The Troll Valley rated resort hotels. During amazing.” will immerse guests. Among children and families to has so many levels going the winter months of The waterfront between them will be Vinterhal interact with mermaids through it. Even though it January – March, the park the hotel and park will fea- (Glacier Temple), Skip Strand underwater. is closed, although the con- ture a fountain show and (Shipwreck Beach), Skog “The Glacier Temple and 4See RULANTICA, page 35

Artist renderings show the attention to detail being integrated into the park’s theming. COURTESY EUROPA-PARK October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 35 RULANTICA Continued from page 34 is an area for younger kids, it gives them a lot of oppor- tunities to wander around and explore. Working on the theming of Glacier Temple, the theming combined with the design, it’s just a beautiful structure. For guests going up to the slides, it’s such an interesting experience. There are so many cool nooks and Massive ceiling support beams (above) are taking their crannies to look at. And then position as construction moves forward. Thomas Mack it has so much adventure. stands before the construction site (right) of Hotel Krønosår. Shotgun Falls are waterslides COURTESY EUROPA-PARK; AT/TIM BALDWIN that send you in the air and you splash down in some of the deepest pools.”

Maintaining the snow and ice to keep its crystal look over the course of time has been a challenge for the project. Sturgis reports that the park has been doing a lot of mockups and sampling as well as talking to other prop- erties about best practices. Mack Solutions is doing the theming and design concepts. Waterslides are being provided by ProSlide Technologies and Aquarena. “We think we will have room for more than 3,000 people in the water park,” said Michael Kreft von Byern, representative to the board. “The strategy is to have even more people in the building and expand the outside area. We are already working on the expansion phase.” Keeping with the Nordic theming, rental cabanas will not be tents, but physical detailed cottages. “We are able to imple- ment all the learnings from the other hotels — design wise, operation wise, con- struction wise. I would describe this as a constant process of improvement,” said Kreft. “We produce entertainment and fun fresh for our guests every day.” While the project is too far out for a specific opening date, Europa-Park manage- ment is aiming for the end of 2019. “The sheer vision for [Rulantica] is really driv- ing people to go through the hard work,” Sturgis told Amusement Today. “It’s a huge step for us. It will bring us to the next level,” said Mack. 36 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 WhiteWater West provides fusion slide WATER PARKS MARKET PLACE Ray Rush brings new thrills to Aquatica AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected]

ORLANDO, Fla. — Adding waterslides is vital to con- tinue growth for water parks. Creating something iconic is a goal every facility can put on their wish list. Of SeaWorld’s trio of Aquatica water parks, the Orlando original has gained fan- fare and acclaim in a very com- petitive market. New for 2018, the park has debuted Ray Rush. “When we conceptualized this waterslide, we wanted to Arriving guests get the full visual statement (above) of Ray celebrate the majesty of one Rush. The ride experience begins with a horizontal launch of our favorite animals, the (below) on a Family Blaster under a canopy of arching waters. manta ray. We were thrilled that AT/TIM BALDWIN; COURTESY AQUATICA WhiteWater was able to capture not just the sweeping move- ments of a manta ray but also visually represent the sensation of swimming in a fever of rays. Ray Rush has quickly become a favorite amongst our guests, making it one of our most popu- lar rides,” commented Aquatica Senior Leader, David Heaton. Franceen Gonzales, execu- tive vice president, WhiteWater West, is excited about the fam- ily aspect of the ride. “The vehicle we have allows kids to they slide below arching waters riders splashing into a catch pool. be tucked into their parents or above. Riders are swept into an On Sept. 8, the attraction across from them. It’s a big open aqua sphere where they undu- officially received a Golden raft. Aquatica is about family late inside until being swept out Ticket Award for Best New Ride experiences. The rider height and dropped into manta shaped in a Water Park at the 2018 WHAT DO YOU SELL FOR requirement is 42 inches and we “wings,” which offers moments Golden Ticket Awards held in wanted it to be family friendly.” of weightlessness as rafts navi- Branson, Mo. Ray Rush offers guests to gate the element. Aquatica opened in March Aquatica multiple experiences. Enclosed slide portions of 2008 and sits on 59 acres. “A first-of-its-kind fusion connect the elements and offer Currently, the park offers ani- FUN? , Ray Rush has truly translucent rings and ray shapes mal interactions in addition to raised the bar for the variety of placed into the fiberglass slide two wave pools, activity pools, experiences a ride can offer. It delivering flashy and entertain- fast-moving rivers and several is an exhilarating combination ing visual effects. The finale sends slide towers. of three unique slide elements seamlessly blended into a single attraction,” commented Paul GET A FREE SAMPLE at Big Squirt! Inc. Riders (right) Chutter, WhiteWater’s Chief www.bigsquirt.com/freesample 1741 Torrance Blvd., Ste. D experience or call 1-888-388-8872 Torrance, CA 90501 Business Development Officer. weightlessness in “Never before have we put together these iconic elements, the manta “wings.” except for Ray Rush — it’s the Translucent touches first,” Gonzales told Amusement such as mantas Today. “You are oscillating in and rings of light an orb, launched on one of the accent the enclosed world’s first Family Blasters, tube sections. and the manta element has a COURTESY AQUATICA drop, but it is still fun for fami- lies. It’s a very long ride, and I don’t think people expect that.” Climbing to the top of a 60-foot tower shared by the park’s Walhalla Wave, riders board rafts in groups up to four passengers. Upon dispatch, the rafts are immediately swept into a Master Blaster element. Unique to Ray Rush, the launch is taken on a horizontal plane instead Keep our water park industry strong! of a typical uphill section. It’s a Buy products and services from these suppliers. fresh take on the proven tech- nology. While being thrust, October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 37 38 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 Columbus Zoo completes fourth expansion of Water park project latest in long-term partnership with ADG AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected]

POWELL, Ohio — The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s 22.7-acre Zoombezi Bay water park launched its summer season with a brand-new expansion designed and built by Aquatic Development Group (ADG) Zoombezi Bay’s new Otter Banks water play area includes activity pools and a pair of 30-foot-tall, intertwined drop slides of Cohoes, N.Y. The $3.7 mil- from Aquatic Development Group, plus an inflatable obstacle course supplied by Wibit. lion addition, called Otter COURTESY ZOOMBEZI BAY; AQUATIC DEVELOPMENT GROUP (OVERVIEW) Banks, debuted Memorial Day weekend. Banks features three sepa- is to not have people standing Amusement Park, which the $4.5 million Baboon Lagoon “We’re incredibly excit- rate play areas totaling 2,500 in long lines,” he said. zoo purchased from Six Flags children’s area featuring ed for the opening of Otter square feet. They include an Otter Banks can accom- Entertainment Corp. in 2006. nine children’s waterslides, Banks,” said Tom Stalf, the activity pool with basketball, modate approximately 500 The water park opened to the numerous interactive water zoo’s president and CEO. three waterfalls and in-water guests at a time. In addition public in 2008 with $20 mil- play features and a 1,000-gal- “This aquatic attraction gives seating; an action pool that to water attractions, it has lion in attractions, including lon dumping bucket. us the opportunity to provide holds an inflatable obstacle expanded lounge seating and three waterslide complexes, a “We have been pleased our guests with an experience course by Wibit; and two 15,000 square feet of decking 544,000-gallon wave pool and to work with ADG when unlike any other in Central 30-foot-tall, intertwined drop around the play areas. It also a 575,000-gallon action river. we have looked for ways Ohio. It includes both adven- slides. offers cabanas. In 2011, ADG designed to expand our water park,” ture and relaxation while also John Gannon, water park The Columbus Zoo’s a waterslide expansion to Gannon said. “We are very offering more space and short- general manager, noted that partnership with ADG dates provide two new slides — a excited about the new Otter er lines during their visit.” guests were consistently ask- back more than a decade. It 45-foot uphill water coaster Banks expansion and are also Designed and built ing for more slides, interac- chose ADG to design and and a half-pipe tube slide. proud of the other projects’ around ADG’s Adventure tive attractions and create Zoombezi Bay on the Three years later, ADG successes.” Lagoon installation, Otter space to relax. “Our goal here former site of Wyandot Lake designed and built the park’s •zoombezibay.columbuszoo.org October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39

Build the Future.

Conference: Nov. 12–16 • Trade Show: Nov. 13–16 • Orlando, FL, US

At IAAPA Attractions Expo 2018, fun is serious business. Discover everything you need to enhance your guest experiences, make bigger, bolder memories, and drive new revenue opportunities as you connect with experts from the global attractions community. Amplify fun and move your

2018 business forward toward a more successful future.

www.IAAPA.org/IAAPAAttractionsExpo/AT REGISTER BY OCT. 31 AND SAVE UP TO 25%! @IAAPAHQ | #IAE18 40 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 LetoLeto, billed as Russia’s largest indoor water park, debuts Facility’s design, key attractions supplied by Polin Waterparks

AT: Jeffrey Seifert [email protected]

TYUMEN, Russia — Expected to be a boon to tour- ism, LetoLeto Water Park, said to be the largest indoor facility of its type in Russia, opened in the country’s Siberian geographical region in June. Although the city of Tyumen, which was founded in 1586 as the first Russian set- tlement in Siberia, can enjoy LetoLeto Water Park has a colorful tangle of waterslides, including the magenta-and-purple Magic Hole, the blue Turbolance warm, humid summers, its and the Windigo racing slides. The Turbolance’s runout includes a whoosh over a speed bump. COURTESY POLIN WATERPARKS long, cold winters — known to have dipped to 58 degrees attraction for tourists from 107,000-square-foot facility, below zero — make it an ideal other regions of the country,” including three of the com- location for an indoor water said Alexander Moore, acting pany’s most popular mod- park. LetoLeto’s amenities governor of the region. els: Turbolance, Windigo and also include a 187-room hotel, “LetoLeto is a gift for Magic Hole. a gourmet restaurant, cafés, those appreciating com- The Blackhole/ bars, bistros, sport grounds, fort and quality,” said Mark Turbolance slide can accom- spas, baths and saunas. Dobryansky, head of the modate single, double or quad The facility is consid- public affairs department tubes. Riders first traverse ered an important develop- of Sibintel Holding, a local a long twisting Blackhole ment not only for the city, but developer that collaborat- enclosed tube chute before for the Russia’s Ural Federal ed with Polin Waterparks encountering a steep drop. District. of Turkey to help bring the The rafts are then thrust up “I am sure that it will three-year project to fruition. the side of a wall, where rid- become one of the most favor- In addition to the park’s ers will encounter a moment ite places for family recreation design, Polin supplied more of weightlessness before slid- and will turn into a point of than 10 waterslides for the ing back down — moving over a speed bump then into a runout that ends in a splash pool. The brightly colored magenta-and-purple Magic Hole slide is a fully enclosed elliptical tube chute with a flat bottom. It can also accommo- date single, double or triple inline tubes or circular rafts of four. The chute takes advan- tage of Polin’s special light- ing effects with translucent stripes and stars, dazzling guests as they slide through the tube. Children have their own water play zone away from the main Windigo, a four-lane mat Views of LetoLeto Water Park’s exterior and lobby reveal waterslides appealing to older kids and adults at LetoLeto racer, starts with a spiraling an attractive, wave-inspired contemporary design aesthetic. Water Park. COURTESY POLIN WATERPARKS enclosed section and also COURTESY POLIN WATERPARKS features lighting effects. The slides then align four-across the largest kids’ water play “It’s a real honor to know for the final drop, allowing zones in Russia. The park and that our attractions are help- guests to race to the finish. its hotel are fully adapted for ing our [project] partners, like Other popular Polin slides guests with disabilities. LetoLeto, not just satisfy their onsite include a space boat, To better serve the bur- patrons but gain their endur- spheres, an aquatube body geoning water park industry ing affection,” said Selim slide and a looping rocket in Russia, Polin established an Doguoglu, general manager speed slide. (The latter two office in the city of Krasnador of Polin’s Krasnador office. installations total more than several years ago. Since then, “It’s truly satisfying to see the 3,200 feet in length.) Polin has been the project comments guests make after Also within the park are supplier for a number of experiencing our designs. We several pools, including a water parks across the coun- know we’ve succeeded when hot tub / whirlpool, a wave try, including Gorki Indoor guests rate our partners’ parks pool with four programmable Waterpark just outside of with their highest reviews.” modes, a lazy river and one Ryazan. •polin.com.tr October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 41 42 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 Daytona Lagoon recovers from 2017 hurricane, adds new slides NEWSSPLASH AT: Jeffrey Seifert AT: Jeffrey L. Seifert [email protected] [email protected]

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — In September 2017, Daytona Maui Sands Resort & Indoor Water- ter is then delivered via underground pipes Lagoon, a family entertainment center and water park, was park, Perkins Twp., Ohio, has been purchased to nearby facilities where a heat exchanger damaged by Hurricane Irma as the storm wreaked havoc once again by a resort and hotelier company feeds the buildings normal heating systems. throughout the Caribbean and Florida. willing to give the ill-fated property another The Heatline scheme is expected to cover the The fun spot’s popular Kraken’s Conquest racing slide was go. Multiple owners have attempted to make entire demand for heat, including hot water reduced to a twisted pile of fiberglass when powerful winds the indoor water park hotel resort successful for showers, heating of the water used for the ripped it from its supports and dumped it onto an adjoining after the original developer went bankrupt slides and pools and general space heating street. Park management was able to resume operating the during the resort's construction. The resort for the building. arcade within a few days, but the water park required a major became infamous when the Travel Channel • cleanup. It reopened without the racing slide once the other featured it on its Hotel Impossible series. Ground was broken mid-September for water park attractions were deemed safe. Ironically, that TV appearance attract- construction of a $1.23-million splash pad Already in the midst of a $2 million upgrade at the time ed the attention of Maryland-based Vintro in Parkersburg, W.Va. The splash pad is de- the storm struck, Daytona Lagoon took the opportunity to redo Hotel & Resorts which then purchased the signed to be accessible to all and includes Kraken’s Conquest, keeping the name and the same support venue for $7 million. Vintro said the property three zones for different age groups. tower. has a lot of potential particularly with a loca- Some of the funding of the splash pad After working with water park equipment supplier Arihant tion just off US 250 and Ohio Route 2 — one was provided by contributions from local of Vasai, Maharashtra, India, replacement pieces started to of the busiest intersections in the Sandusky/ foundations and businesses. arrive in May, and by early summer an upgraded Kraken’s Great Lakes tourist area. The splash pad is being built at the City Conquest mat racer slide was up and running. The new water- The company plans to invest $15 million Park Pool which will also receive $500,000 slide adds an enclosed tube section to the first half of the course in renovations to the property, including re- in renovations. The pool was constructed in with translucent bands allowing light to come through — creat- moval of the original Holiday Inn which pre- the 1930s, and nothing has been added to it ing a psychedelic effect as riders slide down the tube. dates the creation of the water park resort. A since that time. Renovations will include the A second slide described as a pendulum ride utilizes the plumbing leak in January left a foot of water addition of climbing walls, a zipline, new div- same tower. Riders in two-person inline tubes drop more than in more than 170 rooms on the first floor of ing boards, expanded concession stand and 50 feet into a U-shaped structure. The tubes climb a steep uphill that building. Vintro has deemed the Holiday an outdoor patio area. Ramps will also be in- portion opposite the drop and then, after losing momentum, Inn unsalvageable. cluded to make the pool and recreation areas slide back down into the same valley. The motion continues, Vintro owns and operates hotels, resorts more accessible. The project is expected to pendulum style, until the rafts come to a stop. and senior living facilities in Florida, Washing- be completed in May 2019. Recent investment in the facility includes improvements to ton, Missouri and Idaho. This is the compa- • a miniature golf course also damaged by the hurricane, plus a ny's first venture in Ohio. Ice Land Water Park in Ras Al Khamah new indoor ropes course, an expanded arcade and a new go- • (RAK) has closed. The elaborate polar-themed Point Pleasant, W.Va., could become water park opened in 2010 with the hopes of kart track. home to a Yogi Bear Jellystone Park. De- helping to bring tourism to the little-known Daytona Lagoon dates back to 1998, when it opened velopers Lance and Susan Thornton of emirate of RAK. Although tourism is growing, as Adventure Landing. In 2005 the property was sold and Thornton Group & LandSu Land Devel- the water park was never busy and it did not rebranded as Daytona Lagoon. In September 2015, it was sold opment, Inc. are in negotiations to acquire bring in enough visitors to keep it sustainable. again to United Parks, which kept the name and pledged to 445 acres of farmland that includes a historic In recent years, visitors reported that the park make $2 million in improvements. 11,000-square-foot mansion purported to be was not being adequately maintained. •daytonalagoon.com owned by George Washington. The man- The shutdown was unexpected and sion was allegedly modelled after his home caught more than 200 employees by surprise. in Mount Vernon. Many are from foreign countries on a UAE The Thorntons plan to invest $10 million work visa and could face deportation if they into the property to build a massive water cannot find new jobs. park, luxury cabins, R.V. sites, tent camping The government closed the park to boost sites, and horse-riding trails. The mansion will the emirate's tourism competitiveness. be turned into an upscale bed and breakfast. “The RAK government has been persis- Owner Bret Morgan has agreed to sell tent in its efforts to boost development across the property because of the Thornton's plan vital sectors, as well as to set and implement to preserve the history of the home. Morgan, clear directions for the future of the emirate who after 26 years plans to retire, will leave all and, with that in mind, has moved forward the antique furnishings in the home. with foreclosing Ice Land Water Park for the Currently the only obstacle to the devel- time being,” it was quoted as saying. opment is the lack of county water and sewer • facilities to tie into the property. County com- Most people associate waterslides with missioners are looking at possible solutions. water parks and humans, but at the Philadel- The Thornton's hope to break ground in the phia Zoo, otters have their own waterslide to spring and have the park up and running by play with. After Hurricane Irma left 2020. The first phase of the plan calls for an Working with Polin Waterparks, the zoo Daytona Lagoon’s racing $8 million water park, followed by develop- has now enhanced its Zoo360 experience slide a twisted mass ment of the cabins and campground. with the opening of Water Is Life: Red Panda (above), the fun spot • Pass and Otter Falls. This new exhibit offers upgraded its support The new indoor, city-owned, Coven- exciting new experiences for the animal resi- tower with new slides, try Waterpark and Leisure Centre, under dents. The primary feature of Otter Falls is its including a “pendulum construction in Coventry, England, will be oversized slide through which the creatures ride” that gives two- warmed by trash. Specifically, the facility can frolic, swim and slip. person tubes oscillating will tie into the Heatline scheme, a system The new exhibit has proven to be ex- momentum (right). developed by the city that provides high tremely popular with guests who have been COURTESY ARIHANT; temperature and high pressure water to lo- visiting in person to watch the otters' angular DAYTONA BEACH POLICE cal buildings. The hot water is generated at antics. A video of the animals slipping down DEPT. (DAMAGE PHOTO) the Whitney Incinerator which burns rubbish their personal waterslide has more than collected by the city of Coventry. The wa- 16,000 views on the zoo's Facebook page. October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 43 NEWSSPLASH 44 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018

BUSINESS & NEWSMAKERS  Women of Influence: WhiteWater's Franceen Gonzales — page 48 / 's retro retail — page 50 Sally Corp., Aardman partner on ‘Shaun the Sheep’ Animated character stars in immersive multimedia concept

AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected]

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Sally Corp. of Florida has inked a deal with Bristol, U.K.- based Aardman Animations to design and market a dark ride media. based on the funny, family- “With Sally’s ability to friendly Shaun the Sheep char- scale dark rides to any bud- acter and product franchise. get or footprint, the possibili- The attraction will allow ties are endless,” Weaver said. fans of the internationally pop- “This attraction is perfect for ular animated television series any park or FEC looking to sat- of the same name (a spin-off isfy their family demographic. Aardman’s Wallace & Gromit) From farm-themed attractions The Shaun the Sheep dark ride concept developed by Sally to help Shaun conquer all and play parks to cafes and Corp. and Aardman Animations offers flexibility in size and manner of havoc on the farm. stage shows, people are notic- configuration. Aardman’s woolly characters are shown above Riders will board a custom- ing the universal appeal of this holding one possible ride layout. themed dark ride vehicle that popular IP and integrating it COURTESY SALLY CORP., AARDMAN ANIMATIONS will transport them through into attractions worldwide. the character’s colorfully rural “Now, Sally gets the world. opportunity to join in the fun The four-minute ride expe- and create a fully immersive rience will feature dozens of Shaun the Sheep dark ride that scenes inspired by the series. will be nothing short of a flock- Shaun being a sheep who in’ good time.” doesn’t follow the flock, he No stranger to creating winds up leading it into all dark ride experiences based sorts of scrapes — on popular franchises, Sally’s turning the peaceful Mossy recent success with Justice Bottom Farm into a scene of League: Battle for Metropolis amusing mayhem. Every has paved the way for regional day brings a wild and, yes, parks to incorporate IPs that woolly (mis)adventure, with make for destination-quality the action steeped in the high- dark rides. energy slapstick and quiet The four-time Academy comedy that are hallmarks of Award-winning Aardman Aardman’s style. Animations is a studio best Lauren Wood Weaver, known for its stop-motion ani- thrilled by the opportunity to riences. “Integrating Shaun’s ible in size and configura- Sally’s director of marketing, mation technique with clay provide Shaun’s slapstick humor and farmyard tion. Representatives from communications and business puppets and vivid, humorous global family audienc- antics into a thrilling dark ride both Sally and Aardman were development, described the characters. Appealing to adults es with a completely unique experience promises to be an on hand at Euro Attractions concept as ideal for any facil- as well as children, Shaun the way to immerse themselves in exciting creative partnership Show 2018 in Amsterdam in ity looking for new, suitable- Sheep can be enjoyed on mul- the world of our characters,” that we hope audiences will September to introduce the for-all-ages attraction — one tiple levels. said Ngaio Harding-Hill, adore.” attraction concept and discuss that blends practical sets, ani- “Shaun the Sheep loves Aardman’s senior manager The Shaun the Sheep it with prospective buyers. matronics and award-winning new adventures, and we’re of attractions and live expe- dark ride experience is flex- •sallycorp.com

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

PHONE: (716) 839-4791 FAX: (716) 839-4506 EMAIL: [email protected] www.nap-inc.com SERVING THE AMUSEMENT INDUSTRY WE’VE KEPT YOUR RIDES IN MOTION SINCE 1982 October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 45 Theme park ‘ wars’ heat up Six Flags raises scare attraction ante with horror film tie-in GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas touch of death. — In a bid to raise its pro- • The Mask Room, filled file in the increasingly bloody with floating white faces that (and profitable) arena of spring to life when visitors Halloween attractions, Six least expect it. Flags Entertainment Corp. is • The Doll Room, filled taking an IP tack that appears with dolls straight out of one’s somewhat riskier than that worst nightmares. taken by competitor Universal • The Torture Studios, which relies heavily Chamber, where the bodies on scary mazes based on tried- of the disassembled, dissected and-true horror franchises. and disemboweled wish to Teaming with CBS Films, share their horrific ending. Six Flags has rolled out a “Fall means Halloween, Fright Fest experience at and for millions of people, three of its parks based on Halloween means Fright Hell Fest, a new horror movie Fest,” said filmmaker Gregory Lionsgate Plotkin from CBS Films and With self-reflexive irony, the new movie Hell Fest, about a costumed killer loose in a theme , the director of Hell that opened Sept. 28. The loca- park Halloween attraction, has inspire official tie-in mazes at three Six Flags parks. Fest. “We are excited for Six tions featuring the attraction COURTESY CBS FILMS, LIONSGATE Flags patrons to have the are Six Flags Magic Mountain unique opportunity to step in Valencia, Calif.; Six Flags Other,” the movie’s deranged vice president of North whole new level of fear.” inside the terrifying world of Great Adventure in Jackson, antagonist — who ironically America strategic market- Park guests who are brave Hell Fest.” N.J.; and Six Flags Great in the film stalks a theme park ing and partnerships for Six enough through the Devil’s Six Flags’ Fright Fest America in Gurnee, Ill. Halloween attraction, creating Flags. “Partnering with CBS Mouth into The Hell Fest runs Fridays, Saturdays and The parks have installed mayhem that patrons at first Films adds a new, completely Maze, with rooms including: Sundays through Oct. 31. mazes that replicate the screen think is part of the scary fun. immersive in-park experience • The Mausoleum, an Operating schedules vary by story’s most unnerving and “Our guests visit Fright to our existing lineup and increasingly narrow corridor park. gory scenes. Room by room, Fest to experience the scari- takes this year’s event to a that forces guests to feel the —Dean Lamanna guests must find their way out est and most haunting attrac- or risk being trapped by “The tions,” said Stephanie Borges,

While Six Flags tries wearing a new mask of fear, Universal Studios’ continues to deploy more proven IP — such as the Halloween and Poltergeist film franchises — for its scare event. COURTESY UNIVERSAL STUDIOS’ HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS 46 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 Ticket to a lifetime of togetherness OBITUARIES Eleanor Brady, co-owner/operator, Six Gun City (N.H.) JEFFERSON, N.H. — Eleanor The Bradys added waterslides. In 2006, they Ruth Brady, 99, a member of the established purchased the adjacent Jefferson New England Association of what would Campground. Two years later, the Amusement Parks and Attractions grow into Bradys were inducted into the (NEAAPA) Hall of Fame, died a western NEAAPA Hall of Fame for their Aug. 18 at her home. She was 99. theme park, contributions to state tourism. Brady was born in 1919 Six Gun City, Eleanor was predeceased in Plymouth, N.H. Raised in on their farm Brady by her husband in 2007 after 69 ’s annual Golden Ticket Awards (GTA) Amusement Today Groveton, she was a grad- in 1957 and operated it over the years of marriage. She is sur- recorded a first on Sept. 7 during its weekend event at uate of Groveton High years with the help of their eight vived by her children Lawrence, Silver Dollar City in Branson, Mo., when Tracy Shedd of School and attended North children. George, Jane, Richard, James Jr., Skyfair proposed to Holly Coston of AIMS Intl. and Skyfair. Hampton Business College in Six Gun City started out Michael, Karen and Thomas; Holly gave a resounding “Yes!” and showed off the ring Massachusetts. small with a dairy bar. The her grandchildren Mark, Anne, to close friends. The following evening, Amusement In 1938, she married James Bradys kept adding on until they Patrick, Christine, Richard Jr., Today Publisher Gary Slade congratulated the couple Paul Brady of Berlin. They had a theme park with a Western Sarah, Ellen and Kerry; 15 great during the GTA ceremony held on the Showboat Branson moved to Jefferson in 1941 and Main Street, cowboy skits, gift grandchildren; and a sister, Belle. COURTESY HOLLY COSTON operated a dairy farm until 1955. shops and rides. In 1988, they Barbara Gilbert. ON THE MOVE Ward Hall, often called ‘World’s Greatest Showman’ LELAND, Ill. — Ward Hall, Christ. A lifetime member of to miniature horses. He wrote Betson Enterprises, headquartered in Carlstadt, N.J., has a modern-day P.T. Barnum the International Independent four books and appeared in announced the expansion of its and former Showmen’s Association (IISA) seven movies and hundreds of sales team with the hiring of director of in Gibsonton (a.k.a. “Gibtown”), sales representatives Brandon videos and TV programs. He the Outdoor he was also a past president of Horton and Mark Roth, cover- performed at Madison Square ing two major U.S. markets. Amusement the organization. Garden and Lincoln Center and Horton brings experience Business A performer since 1944, sang at Carnegie Hall — all in in the hospitality and entertain- Association Hall worked first as a lion tamer New York City — and he was ment industries with previous Horton Roth (OABA), and later as a sideshow barker still working until the time of Hall stints at Chuck E. Cheese’s, Incredible Pizza Co. and Gatti’s Pizza passed away and manager. He brought joy his death. Co. He will cover the Southwest as regional sales representative. Aug. 31 at age 88. and wonderment to the tens of An inductee of the Circus Roth joins Betson with more than 25 years of experience in Often called “The World’s thousands of people who saw Ring of Fame and, in 2008, business-to-business sales in the roofing industry, mainly with Greatest Showman,” Hall was his shows in traveling circuses, the OABA Hall of Fame, Hall Woodfeathers, Inc. A Portland, Ore., native, he will serve as a larger-than-life king of side- carnivals and theaters. was the subject of an official regional sales representative for the Northwest region. shows and owned dozens of Hall worked with a variety biography, Ward Hall — King them over the decades. His most of human and animal oddities of the Sideshow!, authored by Michael Gazer has joined Player One Amusement Group famous was World of Wonders, / entertainers — from mon- attractions industry journalist (P1AG) of Toronto as senior vice president and general manager. which he co-owned with Chris key girls to sword swallowers Tim O’Brien. Gazer brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in marketing, sales, operations and Bill Luehrs, co-owner/operator of Luehrs’ Ideal Rides finance to his new role, in which he will oversee all aspects of P1AG across North America and HIGHLANDS RANCH, grew up working on the show own a McDonald’s restaurant provide strategic leadership and insight to drive Colo. — William Francis “Bill” along with his siblings, twins franchise in South Florida. His growth across the business. Gazer previously Luehrs, a for- Jon (deceased) and Jean and daughter Mary Chris Smith held executive roles at Hooplah, Inc., Nelson mer midway younger sister Lorelei. Bill currently is president of Allied Education, Ltd. and Shifting Gears Consulting. Gazer co-owner / was an avid golfer, a devoted Specialty Insurance and execu- Most recently, he was president of Apetito Canada, where he was operator, died Chicago Cubs fan and a huge tive vice president of XL Catlin. responsible for the growth and expansion of the brand and busi- on Aug. 18. Green Bay Packer fan. Luehrs’s sisters and ness. He was 78. In the 1970s, Luehrs brothers-in-law Jean and Joe Luehrs returned with his family, Clair and Lorelei and Andy Boston-based Berkshire Hills Bancorp, Inc., parent company was the old- Luehrs wife Maggie and daughters Schoendienst — all third gen- of Firestone Financial, has named Gary Levante est son of the late Hub and Mary Chris, Lisa and Annie, eration — along with their vice president, corporate social responsibility Winnie Luehrs, who founded to Luehrs’ Ideal Rides and children own and operate (CSR) officer — a newly created position within Luehrs’ Ideal Rides, Inc., in owned and operated games. Luehrs’ Ideal Rides out of the Berkshire Bank Foundation. He will work Milwaukee, Wis., in 1957. Bill In 1980, Luehrs went on to Collinsville, Ill. to expand the foundation’s community engage- ment efforts to implement an all-encompassing Morris Vivona, Sr., founder, Amusements of America CSR strategy. In doing so, Levante, who has been with Berkshire since 2010, will lead efforts Levante WEST CALDWELL, N.J. New York State Showpeople’s — an honor that made Vivona to integrate CSR into all activities of the company and foundation. — Morris Vivona, Sr., founder Association, very proud. He received many of Amusements of America, served as awards, including the IISA Pam Lifford has been promoted to president of Warner Bros. passed away at age 97 on director of Hall of Fame, the State of South Global Brands and Experiences, with responsibility for Warner Aug. 25. OABA, and Carolina’s Friend of the Fairs Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP), DC, Themed Entertainment Vivona was born in was the eldest Award and the Man of the and a new Global Franchise team. The new busi- Newark, N.J., in 1920. In 1939, member and Year honor from the Miami ness will align strategies and increase consumer he launched Amusements of former direc- Showmen’s Association. engagement across the Burbank, Calif.-based America with the purchase of a tor of Miami Vivona Vivona was still working company’s key brands and franchises. Lifford that turned at the Showmen’s Association. He shows and was considered the is charged with developing and aligning fan- New York World’s Fair. He was also served as president of oldest active showman in the engagement business opportunities. She joined the eldest of five brothers who the St. Louis chapter of the U.S. at the time of his passing. the company as president of WBCP in February built the company, and he con- Showmen’s League of America. Morris was the husband 2016; in her first year, she increased overall busi- Lifford tributed to its daily operations In 1995, Amusements of 70 years to the late Ethel ness by 47 percent. With more than 25 years of experience in the as chairman of the board. of America was named Vivona; father of Dr. Kathryn consumer products industry and global licensing, Lifford’s career Vivona served as past the world’s largest travel- Fedina and her husband, includes 12 years with the Walt Disney Co. in progressive leader- president of the National ing amusement park by the Anthony, Adrienne Vivona ship roles. Showmen’s Association and the Guinness Book of World Records Inman and Morris Vivona, Jr. October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 47 MARKET WATCH BUSINESS WATCH

COMPANY SYMBOL MARKET PRICE HIGH LOW Cedar Fair reports record revenues in August 09/13/18 52-Week 52-Week SANDUSKY, Ohio — Regional theme park and resort operator The Blackstone Group BX NYSE 35.94 37.52 29.57 Cedar Fair Entertainment Co. announced that results for the five weeks ended Labor Day, Sept. 3, represented record revenues for the Merlin Entertainments Group / MERL LSE 380.20 469.40 317.10 fiscal month of August. Preliminary net revenues were $288 million, Legoland up 6 percent, or $17 million, when compared with the same period Cedar Fair, L.P. FUN NYSE 53.17 70.82 50.1 in 2017. This was the result of a 5 percent, or 255,000-visit, increase in attendance; a 1 percent, or $0.52, increase in average in-park per Comcast Corp./NBCUniversal CMCSA NASDAQ 37.04 44.00 30.43 capita spending; and a 7 percent, or $2 million, increase in out-of- Media park revenues, including resort accommodations. Year-to-date pre- The Walt Disney Company DIS NYSE 110.67 117.90 96.8 liminary net revenues through Sept. 3 were $1.04 billion, up slightly compared with the similar period through Labor Day last year. Dubai Parks & Resorts DXBE:UH DFM 0.36 0.83 0.32 Imax Corp. reports second quarter 2018 results EPR Properties EPR NYSE 70.31 72.27 51.87 NEW YORK — Imax Corp. reported second quarter 2018 rev- Fuji Kyoko Co., Ltd. 9010 TYO 3490.00 3560.00 2346.00 enues of $98.3 million, gross profit of $60.4 million and net income attributable to common shareholders of $7.6 million, which calculates Haichang Holdings Ltd. HK:2255 SEHK 1.69 2.30 1.55 to $0.12 per diluted share. Adjusted net income attributable to com- mon shareholders for the second quarter was $19.0 million, which Leofoo Development Co. TW:2705 TSEC 6.20 8.26 6.05 calculates to $0.30 per diluted share. Adjusted EBITDA per credit facility was $39.5 million. During the quarter, the company installed MGM Resorts International MGM NYSE 27.48 38.41 26.31 31 theater systems, 30 of which were for new theater locations. The total IMAX-branded theater network consisted of 1,410 systems as Parques Reunidos Servicios ES:PQR MCE 11.78 15.45 11.62 Centrales S.A. of June 30, of which 1,314 were in commercial multiplexes. There were also 635 theaters in backlog as of that date, compared to 580 in , Inc. JP:6357 TYO 1367.00 1864.00 894.00 backlog as of June 30, 2017. Imax Corp. also signed contracts for 40 new theaters and 98 upgrades in the second quarter of 2018. SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. SEAS NYSE 32.41 32.47 10.42 Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, partner Six Flags Entertainment Co. SIX NYSE 69.41 73.38 56.01 ORLANDO, Fla. — Now in its 100th year, Ripley’s Believe It or DreamEast Group Ltd. HK:0593 SEHK 10.20 15.88 8.46 Not! has entered into a two-year touring, digital content and publish- ing partnership with action sports entertainment brand Nitro Circus. Tivoli A/S DK:TIV CSE 674.00 704.00 545.00 Ripley’s, as a category-exclusive partner, will be featured throughout Nitro’s live shows and the . Utilizing athlete Village Roadshow AU:VRL ASX 2.32 4.15 1.73 ambassadors, the two brands will collaborate on original digital con- tent and experiences. “Nitro Circus and Ripley’s strive to make the STOCK PRICES ABOVE ARE GENERALLY QUOTED IN THE FOREIGN CURRENCY IN WHICH THE COMPANY IS LOCATED unbelievable believable,” said Amanda Joiner, Ripley’s senior direc- Worldwide Markets: ASX, Australian Securities Exchange; CSE, Copenhagen Stock Exchange; LSE, London Stock Exchange; NYSE, tor of publishing and licensing. “It’s this passion and common thread New York Stock Exchange; NASDAQ, National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations; SEHK, Hong Kong Stock Exchange; SZSE, Shenzhen Stock Exchange; TSEC, Taiwan Stock Excange, Corp.; TYO/TSE, Stock Exchange that makes for a perfect partnership.” Added Brett Clarke, Nitro —SOURCES: Bloomberg.com; Wall Street Journal Circus’s chief commercial officer: “Nitro fans can expect a truly unique partnership between two like-minded brands. There couldn’t be a DIESEL PRICES better strategic alignment.” Per the agreement, Ripley Publishing Region As of Change from also becomes the exclusive publisher for Nitro Circus. (U.S.) 09/10/18 1 year ago East Coast $3.246 +$0.417 Esselworld taps Intercard debit card technology Midwest $3.194 +$0.441 ST. LOUIS, Mo. — Intercard, a global leader in debit card tech- Gulf Coast $3.039 +$0.392 nology for the attractions industry, has made deeper business inroads Mountain $3.367 +$0.540 in India with a major installation at Esselworld Amusement Park in West Coast $3.465 +$0.458 Mumbai. As of last spring, Esselworld has been operating with an California $3.969 +$0.790 automated Intercard cashless payment system — an important part CURRENCY of the park’s plan to remain competitive in the growing Mumbai amusement market. The system integrates with Esselworld’s existing On 09/14/18 $1 USD = point-of-sale and resource planning software, and it allows 0.8579 EURO park patrons to easily pay for and enjoy all rides, food and beverage 0.7648 GBP (British Pound) venues, as well as merchandise stores. The system uses cards and 111.63 JPY (Japanese Yen) wristbands with RFID technology that activate Intercard readers at all 0.9680 CHF (Swiss Franc) attractions. The 42-acre Esselworld is one of the largest amusement 1.3904 AUD (Australian Dollar) parks in India, drawing about 1.8 million visitors annually. Intercard 1.3001 CAD (Canadian Dollar) has more than 70 installations in the country.

Follow us

and 48 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 Franceen Gonzales Executive Vice-President, Business Development Whitewater West Industries, Ltd INFLUENCE Richmond, B.C., Canada A view from the top… Franceen Gonzales is executive vice president, business develop- ment, for WhiteWater West Industries, Ltd. The company is a global leader in water park design and the design and manufacturing of at- tractions and products for water parks. Gonzales has been with WhiteWater for almost five years. She spe- cializes in the design and planning of amusement facilities and over- sees business development in North America, South America and the Caribbean. Accomplishments and affiliations… • International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) — board member, 2011-13; executive finance committee member, 2016; membership board chairman, 2011-13; Outstanding Service Award, 2014 • World Waterpark Association (WWA) — board chairman, 2006-08; board member, 2002-10; Hall of Fame inductee, 2017; Kelly Ogle Memorial Safety Award, 2005, 2009; Executive Board Award, 2005 • Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers (AIMS) — board member, current vice chair; John Allen Safety Award, 2009 • American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) — board member, 2014-16; numerous committees • National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) — board member Sharing her wellspring of knowledge INDIAN ROCK BEACH, Fla. — At age a free forum. 14, there was no way for Franceen Gon- “We thought it might be good for zales to know her “summer job” at the there to be some training,” Gonzales said. local water park in El Paso, Texas, would “We had 125 people turn out,” she said. turn into a successful and dynamic career. “And these were middle management She just needed a summer job, her mother people who are hard to touch sometimes. implemented some safety elements. The client... I need you on that bus.’” said. We were surprised and pleased.” insurance company said they would insure Not totally convinced, Gonzales want- Her first job at Wet ‘N’ Wild Water- Her excitement for the industry is evi- the Golfland parks if all of them imple- ed to know where she would be sitting on world was cleaning out the pools. Over dent. It’s this passion that drove Gonzales mented these elements. Golfland boosted this bus and who would be driving it. several years, however, her loyalty and skill forward. Along every step, her path was her to director of operations. “What I saw was that WhiteWater had got her promoted to lifeguard, supervisor, cleared. All along, Gonzales sought out indus- the big picture of the industry, and they manager and, eventually, director of op- Her first mentors were her parents, try associations. She volunteered as much were taking it globally,” she said. “I found erations. The park’s owner, Berry Edwards, Ruben and Gloria Gonzales. From her as she could, gaining visibility. that interesting.” didn’t want to have to replace her when mother, Franceen learned to always do In 2004, Gonzales was recruited to work Chutter said another thing to her: she began attending Stanford University in the very best she could. From her father, as park director for Hurricane Harbor at Six “Franceen, you’ve been doing this for a San Francisco. she learned to always work hard no matter Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, N.J. She long time. It’s time for you to stretch.” “Starting after spring break, he would the task. remained there until 2006, when another “So, I stretched. It was the best thing fly me home every weekend to work in the From her first boss at Wet ‘N’ Wild opportunity arose with Great Wolf Resorts, I ever did.” park until my exams were over,” Gonzales Waterworld, she learned a lot about hu- which was just beginning construction on She would like to see others coming recalled. manity, of being fair. He taught her a lot its indoor water park lodges. She served as into the industry do the same. Today, Gonzales thrives in the global about safety. vice president, risk management and water “It is important for us to show them water park industry. She travels extensive- After college, Gonzales sought and parks, for the company until 2013. there is a career path for them,” she said. ly and helps lead her team of 12 at White- got the position of general manager at While at Great Wolf, she worked with “There are a lot of positions in the devel- Water West Industries, Ltd., tend to the Waterworld Safari, Phoenix, Ariz. That CEO Kim Schaefer. “She was a very strong opment side. Since many attractions have company’s international clients. Volunteer- particular park would later become Wet woman, a great mentor,” Gonzales said. become so immersive, there are positions ing with industry associations allows her to ‘n’ Wild Phoenix, but from 1997 to 2004, When Geoff Chutter, founder and for those in show and theater. share her knowledge. when Gonzales was there, it was owned by CEO of WhiteWater, began to recruit Gon- “Have you ever taken a survey where During this interview, Gonzales was Golfland Entertainment Centers. zales, she didn’t understand why. you have to check what you do?” she said. riding in a taxi in Cancún, Mexico, where “I was working there during the insur- “I was in the safety and operations "This industry doesn’t have its own line. IAAPA’s safety committee had wrapped ance crisis,” she said. “For some reason, side of running a water park, not in sales You could check entertainment, but that a meeting. During its planning, in view of my park had less incidences of complaints for a manufacturer,” she said. “I asked doesn’t really tell the story." the growth of attractions in the area, the and injuries. The insurance company want- him, ‘Why do you want me?’ The industry needs its own check box, committee decided to reach out to local ed to know why.” "He said, ‘You understand the client. I Gonzales feels. She can’t wait for the day. owners and operators and invite them to They visited her park and saw she had need you to help our team understand the —Pam Sherborne October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 49 50 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 At Cedar Point, attractions from the past make for retro retail By wearing nostalgia on its sleeve, the park “We reached back into our archives is finding new profits and pulled out some logos from AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected] the ’90s. Once we produced that

Amusement parks have product, we realized that people been operating in the U.S. for more than a century. Even the are loving this.” more modern theme parks —Jessica Bradley, are reaching the 40-, 50- and Area Manager, Merchandise, 60-year marks. With time, parks Cedar Point develop fans that cross multiple generations. “The first pitch for the The program is now in its retro line was for Wildcat and third year, and Cedar Point has it just took off from there,” said continually added more offer- Jessica Bradley, area manager, ings. merchandise, Cedar Point. “We “They love it,” Bradley told reached back into our archives Amusement Today. “There’s a and pulled out some logos from blue heather T-shirt with the A recent trend is merchan- the ’90s. Once we produced that old train logo on it — that one dise that spotlights rides, logos product, we realized that peo- we can’t keep on the shelves. and looks from the past. ple are loving this. We went to Disaster Transport is one of the Shirts sporting designs from former rides (above) such as Cedar Point has found one of our vendors and pitched new favorites this season.” Schwabinchen, , Wildcat, Avalanche Run and more are great success with what it calls them ideas and logos and the Wildcat was a presented front and center. Fascination, Down a Clown and the Vintage Program. Vintage Program arrived.” Schwarzkopf compact coast- Paddlewheel Excursion shirts (below) are shown displayed er that operated from 1971 to with an authentic Fascination game. AT/TIM BALDWIN 2011. Disaster Transport was an indoor Intamin bobsled ride removed in 2012 for the newer GateKeeper coaster. “People love Cedar Point. With our 150th coming up, it is a good time to reflect on what the park had in the past and make it present for people who weren’t here to be able to enjoy Amusement industry NEWS ... the rides and people who were ... at your fingertips! here can relive it,” said Bradley, now in her seventh season. Games also have their fol- Download our app today! lowing. Fascination and Down a Clown have shirts of their ●Detailed industry coverage! own. “Fascination is huge,” Unparalled safety reporting! said Bradley. In one of the main ● retail shops, the vintage line ●Mobile-friendly! is front and center, complete with a Fascination table as a in or only a couple who aren’t ing to the merchandise depart- ●Instant delivery! showpiece. sure. This was definitely a team ment. It would be easy to say the effort to think about the ‘90s. “What is neat about the ●Back issues! line could be viewed as a risk. We went back into the archives Vintage Program is the gar- Bradley reports there were no to see what was relevant.” ments that they are on. With naysayers. “I think our retail Old Cedar Point logos some of the Cedar Point shirts team is unique. We are either all aren’t hard to come by, accord- we sell now, we try to make sure we have apparel and sou- venirs for guests of all ages and financial backgrounds. Some shirts are $14.99 but aren’t necessarily the best feel. With the Vintage Program, the shirt itself is amazing. It’s blended Golden Tickets heather and the marbled look lends itself to a program called ‘vintage.’” The vintage apparel gener- ally sells for around $24.99. Other operators are also buying into the trend. Old rides Amusement Today and original logos can be spot- Wildcat, a Schwarzkopf compact coaster, was retired ted in numerous theme parks after 2011 and was the first shirt in the Vintage Program. around the country. COURTESY CEDAR POINT; AT/TIM BALDWIN •cedarpoint.com

Parks & Fairs

$ Classifieds

Water Parks

Business/Marketplace

International

Amusement Today

Newstalk October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 51 Universal Orlando’s Aventura Hotel a sleek resort addition ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Orlando Resort’s newest accommodations, Universal’s Aventura Hotel, opened for business in mid-August. The styl- ish 600-room hotel is the destination’s sixth property in partnership with New York City-based Loews Hotels & Co. Aventura offers contemporary rooms with floor- to-ceiling windows and technological conveniences, such as in-room tablets that allow guests to order pizza in addition to controlling the TV, lighting and room temperature. All rooms, and the hotel general- ly, are outfitted with high-speed fiber-optic network connections for future tech upgrades. Dining options include the resort’s first-ever rooftop bar and grill: Bar 17 Bistro. Guests can enjoy cocktails and small plates inspired by global Universal Orlando Resort’s Aventura Hotel is a cuisine while taking in expansive views of all three strikingly contemporary addition to the Central Universal theme parks — including the 200-foot Florida skyline. The 600-room property offers centerpiece of Universal’s Volcano Bay water park, high-tech amenities, a rooftop bar and grill, and Krakatau, which spews glowing blue “lava” at night. expansive views of the surrounding theme parks. COURTESY UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT Urban Pantry, a modern food hall, offers diverse flavors, fresh ingredients and dishes such as teriyaki stir fry and smoked salmon pizza. The 17-story hotel, located on Adventure Way Guests at the property enjoy exclusive theme opposite Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, rep- park benefits and hotel amenities at a price designed resents another move by Universal to attract a larger for value-savvy travelers. Aventura is steps away share of Central Florida’s tourism business. About 72 from all three Universal Orlando theme parks — million people visited the region in 2017. Universal Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of now has a total of 6,200 hotel rooms in the area. Adventure and Universal’s Volcano Bay. A walking Rates start at Universal’s Aventura Hotel start at path connects the hotel directly to the water park, $116 per night for a four-night stay. For more informa- and complimentary shuttle buses are available for tion, visit the resort’s website: universalorlando.com. resort-wide transportation. —Dean Lamanna Legoland New York reveals eight ‘lands’ in Lego model form A mini-bricktacular previews fun to come at new resort in 2020 AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected]

GOSHEN, N.Y. — Late in summer, more than 100 members of the media and special guests joined officials from Merlin Entertainments to get the first look at the eight themed “lands” that will form the $350 million, 150-acre Legoland New York Resort. The event took place at the resort’s future location in , just 60 miles northwest of Manhattan, where site preparation has already begun for a planned The forthcoming Legoland New York Resort revealed its site plans with a grandly creative 2020 opening. It was high- flourish, unveiling a model made from 135,000 Lego bricks. COURTESY LEGOLAND NEW YORK RESORT lighted by the unveiling of a model of the family theme facturing and packaging pro- • Knights’ Kingdom, site for young buccaneers to find park rendered in — what else? cess from a Lego Minifigure’s of the Lego Castle, is a land of adventure. Climb aboard — Lego bricks. point of view. knights, princesses, wizards a galleon and say “Anchors The mini-marvel, in fact, model were a group of local • Bricktopia is a land with and dragons — including the aweigh!” required 135,000 bricks care- children who wore costumes no rules or restrictions on Dragon Coaster, a family ride. • Miniland is the heart of fully assembled by 20 Master representing each land of the creativity. Guests will work • Lego City is home to the every Legoland park, a mas- Model Builders. park. The eight lands: with Master Model Builders to Minifigures. Learn to be a Lego sive panorama of Lego-built “Legoland New York is • The Factory is the begin- build and test Lego creations. City firefighter and help save cities from across the coun- coming, and it’s time to get ning of the Legoland New • Lego Ninjago World is the day at Rescue Academy, try, with interactive features excited,” said resort pub- York experience. Once visitors where aspiring ninjas can mas- or attend Lego Driving School around every corner. lic relations manager Matt pass under the iconic arch, ter the ancient art of Spinjitzu. and to get an official Legoland While the theme park will Besterman. “This will be the they’re in a world that appears •Heartlake City is home driver’s license. With restau- operate seasonally, the resort ultimate must-see destination to be built of Lego bricks. The to the Lego Friends: Emma, rants, shops and a theater, will offer a 250-room Legoland for families in the Northeast.” Great Lego ride offers a jour- Olivia, Stephanie, Andrea and there is plenty to see and do. Hotel open year-round. On hand to help reveal the ney through the brick-manu- Mia. •Pirate Shores is the place •legoland.com/new-york 52 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 53

ThisM spaceuseu provided courtesy ofm Amusement P Todayrogress, a corporate partner of the National R Roller Coasterep Museumort & Archives Sellner's Water Toboggan Slide: FROM THE ARCHIVES COLLECTION possibly the first waterslide?

From the NRCMA Archives (the Sellner/Larson Collection) is Both swimmers and well dressed spectators enjoy the this photo of a Sellner Water Toboggan Slide operating at 300-foot-long swimming pool at Neptune Beach Park, in Slide Inn at Smith's Channel Lake in Antioch, Ill. (no year list- Alameda, California, with the ominous Thompson Giant Safety ed). NRCMA research has confirmed slides as early as 1925 1917: Racer in the background. After being relocated by the L.A. in Duluth, Minn. Typical slides (officially patented on Feb. 12, Thompson Pacific Coast Company from the 1915 Panama Pacific International Exposition in 1929) stood 30 feet tall and featured a wooden track length San Francisco, it reopened in May 1916 as a separate concession (a common misconception of 100 feet. Wooden sleds were anchored via a slotted track is that it opened in 1917 when Surf Beach became Neptune Beach). The popular twin track with a metal-lined groove for safe operation. We ask the in- racing coaster had a total track length of 5,000 feet with nearly 600 feet of the structure dustry historians if these early slides could be the first known extending out into the bay. The park closed after the 1939 season, leaving -at-the- waterslides in our industry? NRCMA/SELLNER COLLECTION Beach as San Francisco’s only local amusement park. – Richard W. Munch 54 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018

SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS  AIMS News & Notes — page 57 / APSP releases newly revised, improved training manuals — page 59 Pa. Ride Safety Board meets Space Center is now AT: B. Derek Shaw [email protected] a Certified Autism Center HARRISBURG, Pa. – Four times each year, the Pennsylvania Ride Safety Advisory Board, which oper- HOUSTON, Texas — “This is who we are,” ates under the Pennsylvania Dept. of Agriculture’s Space Center Houston is the said Harris. “We are a val- Bureau of Ride & Measurement Standards, convenes. first space center in the world ues-based organization, and The meeting comprises seven representatives from to become a Certified Autism we’ve incorporated accessi- the amusement industry, two members of the public and Center (CAC). bility and inclusion into the two special advisors who gather to discuss and either The designation, given very fabric of Space Center accept, conditionally accept, table or reject new ride by the International Board Houston as part of our way approvals submitted by carnivals, amusement parks and of Credentialing and forward.” water parks. Continuing Education Parents with children on The summer edition included four manufacturers with Standards (IBCCES), is eration of problem solvers.” the autism spectrum often 11 different attractions / rides that were brought before awarded to organizations The certification pro- find vacationing and visiting the board during a three-hour-plus meeting. that have completed a pro- cess involves rigorous train- attractions such as museums Presenting manufacturers included Show Canada fessional training and review ing for staff, inspections and and theme parks to be a chal- Industries for the Comcast Experience. Named Universal process with the goal to better improvements that enable lenge due to sensory needs, Sphere, the attraction will be located in the lobby of serve individuals with autism Space Center Houston to wel- dietary restrictions and safety Xfinity Live! within the Wells Fargo section of the and other sensory needs. come and accommodate more concerns. For almost 20 years, Philadelphia Sports Complex. It is slated to open prior “Science, technology, effectively those guests with IBCCES has been the indus- to Thanksgiving. The free-of-charge, 32-capacity bench engineering and mathematics autism spectrum disorder and try leader in autism train- seat attraction is similar to an IMAX theater. The theater education is for everyone,” other sensory and cognitive ing for licensed healthcare slowly revolves during a 270-degree, six-minute experi- said William T. Harris, the challenges. Earning the CAC professionals and educators ence powered by four laser projectors, fully immers- center’s president and CEO. designation also includes a around the globe. ing the audience. It will meet ASTM and Chapter 139 “This certification highlights commitment to maintain that IBCCES recognized that Pennsylvania Code 7 standards. our dedication to be inclusive training and provide the best Other companies presenting were Horan Adventure and to inspire the next gen- guest experience possible. 4See SPACE, page 55 Development, LLC, for their Monkey Trunks tree-climb- ing experience destined for Kalahari Resorts Poconos; Amusement Products, LLC, maker of various types and styles of go-kart vehicles; and KMG for the modifications it has made to two portable Afterburner ride models and one new model owned by carnivals that travel throughout the state. A great deal of the advisory meeting focused on the KMG Afterburner (also known as Fireball or Wild Claw). This was the type of ride that suffered metal fatigue at the 2017 Ohio State Fair, resulting in a fatality and several injuries. All Pennsylvania owners of the ride were issued a stop-use order at the time that remained in effect until recently. KMG addressed the issue separately, by serial num- ber. Reithoffer Shows, Inc., and Wade Shows, Inc., both purchased and installed the modification that is available from KMG on a ride-by ride basis. This includes six new assemblies newly manufactured from the main 4See PENNSYLVANIA, page 56

Space Center Houston has been recognized as a Certified Autism Center by the Interna- tional Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. The nonprofit is the first science and space exploration learning center to earn such a distinction. COURTESY SPACE CENTER HOUSTON October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 55 SPACE nations and connects families Continued from page 54 to other resources and each other. Each destination list- many families with children ed on the site has met CAC with special needs have lim- requirements, which include ited options and created pro- extensive staff training and grams specifically for the hos- an on-site audit conducted by pitality and travel industry. leading autism experts. “We’re thrilled to work Space Center Houston with such an amazing orga- will also be listed with other nization that can impact CACs on autismmember. the lives of so many,” said org, a partnership between Myron Pincomb, IBCCES IBCCES and the Autism board chairman. “Space Society to connect families Center Houston has gone and individuals with busi- above and beyond to show nesses and resources commit- its commitment to serving Among various accessibility and inclusion initiatives, Space Center Houston upholds its Cer- ted to serving individuals on those on the spectrum, and tified Autism Center status by offering sensory-friendly backpacks, which contain sound- the spectrum. what they offer is so impor- canceling headphones, sunglasses, a fun space book and other helpful items. Drawing one million visi- tant for those individuals. It’s COURTESY SPACE CENTER HOUSTON tors annually, Space Center crucial for organizations to Houston is the cornerstone ensure all guests can experi- education department. The our website, everyone comes center’s development of the of the mission of the Manned ence the world around them center named McMahon as together to support our “Stellar Explorer Guide,” Space Flight Education in a safe and welcoming envi- their accessibility and inclu- [accessibility and inclusivity] which individuals and school Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non- ronment.” sion coordinator the follow- initiatives.” groups can use to prepare profit science and space Space Center Houston ing year. McMahon also leads Space Center Houston guests with autism for an exploration learning cen- goes beyond simply meeting the center’s Accessibility and offers “Sensory Friendly upcoming; and “Vocabulary ter with extensive educa- ADA requirements, and the Inclusion working group, Evenings,” with reduced Cards” for non- or low-ver- tional programs designed to CAC designation is the latest composed of representatives lights, sounds and crowds bal guests that can help with inspire through the wonders example. from across departments. as well as Space Center transitions and timelines. of space exploration. It is In 2016, the center hired “The working group is University for the visually In response to the need the official visitor center of Stephanie McMahon, a our forum to brainstorm, impaired and other events for more trained and certified NASA Johnson Space Center special education certi- plan and create plans to designed to provide qual- destinations, IBCCES also and generates $73 million in fied teacher and mother to ensure that we are meeting ity learning experiences for created autismtravel.com, a economic impact in Greater a child with autism, as a all our guests’ needs,” said guests with special needs. free online resource for par- Houston annually. senior lead instructor in its McMahon. “From facilities to McMahon also noted the ents that lists certified desti- •spacecenter.org

Featuring turn-key renovation solutions for all water park attractions, including: • Structural Steel Corrosion Remediation • Slide Interior Gel Coating • Exterior Industrial Finishes • Fiberglass Repair & Refinishing

Beech Bend visit us at baynumpainting.com Tiki Tower 56 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018

SAFETY MARKET PLACE

VISIT US AT: IAAPA ATTRACTIONS EXPO 2018 ORLANDO FL — NOV 13-16 — BOOTH #3617

MULTIDEVICE PLATFORM

BUDGETING AND COSTING

HUMAN RESOURCES ASSET LIVE MANAGEMENT COMMUNICATION CONTENT & DOCUMENTATION MANAGEMENT PREDICTIVE AND PROGNOSTIC MAINTENANCE

PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT

AUXEL SRL ― – TEL +39 0444.653211 – WWW.AUXELRIDES.COM

A KMG Fireball (also known as After Burner) ride in stationary mode. The ride was a main focus of the Aug. 21 Pennsylvania Ride Safety meeting because of a fatal accident that occurred on a similar model during the 2017 Ohio State Fair. AT FILE PHOTO PENNSYLVANIA structural integrity. Deggeller made remarks in the pub- Continued from page 54 Attractions purchased a new lic comment portion of the Afterburner model, which meeting about the upcom- sweep down to the seating. incorporates the approved ing changes to the Xtreme The modification replaces modification for older models. Cup Challenge ride, which square tubular steel that could The advisory board will be upgraded, rethemed accumulate water, sludge and approved both models with and relaunched next year as other debris while in transit the completed modifica- Reese’s Cupfusion. While the or storage. Such accumula- tion for operation inside ride path will basically be the tion appears to contribute to the Commonwealth of same, except for the elimina- the deterioration of the tubu- Pennsylvania. Approval was tion of the bunny hops as lar steel from the inside out. pending on the new ride the train approaches the end The new design replaces the model. The board also recom- of the ride, elements such as tubular single point of sus- mended that additional NDT video projection will be incor- pension with separate steel testing on the replacement porated. Sally Corp. is the plates that are joined together part where it meets the exist- ride manufacturer and Raven and exposed on all sides so as ing flange occur on a regular Sun Creative is handling the not to accumulate moisture. basis. design elements. Pennsylvania required Gary Chubb, senior main- The fall meeting takes complete stress analysis of tenance director of facilities place Oct. 16. the new design to insure its and safety for Hersheypark, •agriculture.pa.gov

Keep our amusement park industry strong! Buy products and services from these suppliers. October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 57

Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers International, Ltd. P.O. Box 92366 • Nashville, Tenn. 37209 Phone: (714) 425-5747 • Fax: (714) 276-9666 Karen Oertley • [email protected] www.aimsintl.org Holly Coston, (714) 697-6654, [email protected] Pat Hoffman, Mark Moore receive AIMS award at Golden Ticket Awards Patrick Hoffman was pre- Flags’ Ed Zaker remarked: “Pat National Roller Coaster Museum sented with the 2018 AIMS Hoffman is the of & Archives board of directors. International Safety award dur- Safety … he is a fixture in the Viox said, “As president of ing the Golden Ticket Awards safety field worldwide, he is AIMS, nothing would please me held Saturday, September 8, in well liked and respected, and more than to hand this award to Branson, Missouri. The Award, is always there to assist any my friend, shake his hand and presented to Hoffman by organization or individual in our say ‘thank you for your contribu- AIMS Executive Director Karen Industry in the name of Safety tions,’ but sadly, Mark lost his life Oertley, recognizes a person compliance. in a motorcycle accident in July or organization that has made “Pat is an active supporter of 2016. He is sorely missed, but a significant impact or contribu- of AIMS, with his well known life- continues to be an inspiration to tion in improving safety in the long contribution to our industry me, the AIMS board of Directors amusement industry by demon- and safety. I could not think of a and family, and to the entire strating leadership, innovation, more deserving person to receive amusement industry.” and foresight. the AIMS International Safety In accepting the award on In presenting the award, Award. I am confident that this behalf of Mark, his wife and Karen Oertley related that award will validate his personal Tim Viox (left) and Karen Oertley (right) of AIMS widow, Carol Moore graciously Hoffman began his career in and professional commitment to International present Pat Hoffman (middle) with the AIMS thanked AIMS for the invita- the theme park industry in 1969 the ever evolving safety of the International Safety Award. AT/JOHN W.C. ROBINSON tion to accept the award and when he joined Cedar Point amusement industry.” took the podium to announce the mechanics and electricians, expressed her appreciation to Amusement Park in Sandusky, In accepting the award, the recipient of a new award carpenters and welders — was the past and current AIMS board Ohio, as maintenance supervisor. Hoffman remarked that he was created by the AIMS Board of a driving force behind his tire- and staff for their dedication to In his career he has served honored to receive this award Directors to recognize outstand- less efforts in contributing to this organization. in senior positions at Fun Spot from AIMS, and expressed his ing dedication and service to AIMS' mission to improve indus- Congratulations to both Amusement Park & Zoo, gratitude to Six Flags’ Ed Zaker AIMS International: The inaugu- try safety through leadership in AIMS Awards recipients! K&K Insurance Group, SLE for nominating him for the award ral AIMS Lifetime Contribution education. Mark served on the Congratulation are also in order Worldwide, and as an indepen- and his wife Jan, for her support. Award presented posthumously board of directors for more than to AIMS Safety Seminar Manager, dent safety consultant serving He went on to thank all the indi- to Mark Moore. a decade, was President of AIMS Holly Coston and Tracy Shedd theme parks and leisure facili- viduals and organizations in the Viox remarked that Mark, International from 2009 to 2011, on their engagement which took ties around the world conduct- industry that support the work as president and founder of and was AIMS’ executive direc- place over the GTA weekend in ing safety, operational and to improve amusement industry Uremet Corporation, was the tor until 2014. Mark was also an Branson, Missouri! maintenance inspections as safety worldwide. industry leader in innovation and active member of ASTM F24 as Registration for the 2019 the president of The Hoffman Following the presentation safety improvement for urethane well as other industry organiza- AIMS Safety Seminar is now Consulting Group. of the AIMS Safety Award, Tim coatings on roller coaster wheels. tions including IAAPA, NAARSO, open! www.aimsintl.org. In 2000, Hoffman joined Six Viox, AIMS board president His passion for the trades — for and BALPPA. He served on the Flags and retired in 2017 as corporate vice president of safe- ty, security & risk management where he was responsible for management and implementa- tion of safety, security and risk management programs, insur- ance policies and procedures for all Six Flags operations around the world. He is a past president of AIMS International and was a board member of A.R.E.A., the predecessor of AIMS. Throughout his career, Hoffman has been an active participant in many industry organizations including IAAPA, OABA, WWA and NAARSO. He served on several ASTM com- mittees and task force groups and is a past member of the F-24 Executive Committee. Now, as president of the Hoffman Consulting Group, he provides consulting services on operations, safety, security as well as crisis management and litigation support for the defense of the amusement and leisure industries. In his nomination of Hoffman for this prestigious award, Six

Space for this AIMS page is provided courtesy of Amusement Today as a corporate partner of AIMS Intl. Content is provided by AT & AIMS. 58 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 Step into Swim campaign doubles 2017 total SAFETY MARKET PLACE Donations pour into National Swimming Pool Foundation

AT: Dean Lamanna tional programs as well as art Association, New York State [email protected] and culture that enrich com- Parks, SwimToday (a program munities. of USA Swimming), Cincinnati COLORADO SPRINGS, •National Plasterers Public School System and Colo. — The National Council (NPC) contributed many individual learn-to-swim Swimming Pool Foundation $10,000 this year, up from programs selected by Master (NSPF) has seen donations near- $5,000 in 2017. NPC has been Pools Guild members and deal- ly double in 2018 through its active in the pool industry for ers of Pentair and Hayward. Step into Swim (SIS) campaign, decades, focusing on pool sur- All donated funds are direct- which enables underprivileged face research and education- ed toward learn-to-swim pro- children across the U.S. to learn al programs for pool surface grams, with NSPF covering all how to swim. Its mission: to cre- applicators. administrative costs. ate one million more swimmers. •Hayward joined the grow- Angels of America’s As of mid-August, the cam- ing list of manufacturers sup- Fallen is a fourth-year SIS paign had raised more than porting SIS this year, donating recipient that supports chil- $112,000. Every dollar donated $5,000. Hayward offers environ- dren of fallen military and first Proudly working with the following goes directly toward qualified mentally responsible, cutting- responders by engaging them edge pool and spa equipment in healthy activities throughout American-made companies: learn-to-swim programs. “How often does one dollar for residential and commercial their entire childhood. Another do three great things: prevent in-ground and above-ground perennial benefactor is the New •Premier Rides drowning, create more swim- pools. York State Parks Learn to Swim •Sally Dark Rides mers and increase demand for •American Chemistry program. Over six years, the water-based activity?” said Council donated $5,000. It rep- program has expanded from •Swannee River Railroad Co. Thomas Lachocki, Ph.D., CEO resents a diverse set of com- a single location to 28, reach- of NSPF. “When we open our panies that invest millions to ing more than 3,000 children •Owen Trailers wallet to fund swim lessons, ensure modern-day products each year. The program is made •Philadelphia we open the door to brighter are safe for both communities possible through a partnership Toboggan futures.” and the environment. with the American Red Cross. Coasters, Inc. Among the major donors: The following organizations NSPF was founded in 1965 •Pentair, a global water will benefit from the SIS dona- as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. For a Facebook.com/IRMRides technology company, donated tions received this year: Angels full listing of products, pro- $40,000 in late 2017 to help of America’s Fallen, YMCA grams and services, visit the jump-start the 2018 program. of Greater Charlotte (N.C.), organization’s website. •Master Pools Jewish Community Center •nspf.org Guild (MPG) donated $40,000 for the third year in a row. MPG builders are craftsmen operat- The National ing with a strong commitment Swimming Pool to quality, customer service and Foundation’s business ethics. Step into Swim •Bill Kent Family campaign enables Foundation donated $10,000. underprivileged The foundation seeks to con- children across the tribute to building a socially U.S. to learn how and economically just society to swim. COURTESY that values nature and protects NATIONAL SWIMMING the ecological balance for future POOL FOUNDATION generations, promotes humane health care and fosters educa- NSPF endorses Model Aquatic Code adoption COLORADO SPRINGS, Centers for Disease Control Colo.— The National and Prevention, as well as Swimming Pool Foundation endorsed by the Commercial (NSPF) has released a posi- Energy Specialists, Council tion statement recommend- of State and Territorial ing that the Model Aquatic Epidemiologists, National Health Code (MAHC) be Association of County & evaluated and adopted in City Health Officials and whole or part by all state, ter- National Environmental ritory and local health depart- Health Association. ments; aquatic facilities and The MAHC 3rd Edition, the industry. The objective is ics industry experts, making released July 18, addresses to protect the future of aquat- it more expedient for juris- emerging public health topics ic facilities and their staff and dictions to justify, adopt and such as Legionella decontami- patrons. implement. nation and the design and The nation’s only all-inclu- Unlike legislation, the operation of floatation tanks, sive model pool code, MAHC MAHC is voluntarily adopted, as well as ongoing challeng- is based on scientific data wholly or in part, and driven es such as natatorium noise Keep our amusement park industry strong! and best practices gathered by expertise. It is free, publicly reduction. Buy products and services from these suppliers. by public health and aquat- accessible and backed by the —Dean Lamanna October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 59 APSP releases newly revised and improved training manuals ALEXANDRIA, Va. — In addition to helping stu- “Owning these updat- The Association of Pool & dents learn essential industry ed manuals are critical for Spa Professionals (APSP) skills, the updated manu- today’s pool and hot tub has released updates of als will be the basis for the professional,” said Carvin manuals covering pool / organization’s newly revised DiGiovanni, vice president spa technology and hot tub APSP University live certifi- of technical and standards for service and repair. Written cation courses. Starting this APSP. “We’ve updated them and reviewed by industry fall, APSP University instruc- to correspond with the cur- experts, these manuals reflect tors will teach courses using rent ANSI/APSP Standards new standards and changes updated PowerPoint presen- to ensure students are servic- within the industry. tations that correspond with ing and installing to the lat- the manual updates. est codes and standards. Pool “These manuals were and hot tub professionals will carefully and methodically find these updated technical developed and have served manuals of great value as us well for many years,” learning tools in their profes- said Silvia Uribe, education quality structures and fin- Edition) is a comprehensive sional day-to-day practice.” director for APSP. “As APSP ishes; circulation; filtration guide that provides practi- These updated manu- enters into a new era with and hydraulics; electrical cal knowledge on servicing als are available to pur- education, it is essential that requirements; pump motors; and troubleshooting of hot chase in hard copy for APSP The revised manuals give we provide students with the heaters and optional equip- tubs. It covers topics includ- Members and non-members. students a solid foundation most up-to-date manuals to ment; control systems and ing safety and health; prac- Orders may be placed online of practical knowledge and help advance their learning.” maintenance. It is the manual tical knowledge; structures at apsp.org/store or by call- guidelines. They provide the The two newly revised and textbook for the follow- and finishes; basic electric- ing APSP Member Services at core material needed for real- manuals: ing courses: CSP Certified ity; circulation; plumbing 703.838.0083. ext. 301. world applications and help •The APSP Service Tech Pool & Spa Professional and filtration; pumps and Students can take APSP prepare students to earn their Manual (5th Edition) is a ref- Course, CMS Certified Pool equipment systems; electron- University courses that APSP University certification erence tool that provides & Spa Maintenance Specialist ic control systems; heaters; use the APSP Service designation through knowl- comprehensive information Course, and CST Certified water chemistry and general Tech and APSP Hot Tub edge checks, an updated about pool and spa technol- Pool & Spa Service Technician maintenance. It is the manual Tech manuals now. Visit apsp. reference index and revised ogy, service and repair. It cov- Course. and textbook for the CHTT learnupon.com for more manuals that follow ANSI/ ers topics including safety; •The APSP Hot Tub Certified Hot Tub Technician information. APSP Standards. practical knowledge; water Technician Manual (2nd Course. —Dean Lamanna 60 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 Walt Disney Co. expands environmental commitment CALENDAR 2018 ANAHEIM, Calif. — Walt Disney once said, As of now, plastic straws and plastic bags will IAAPA Operators Forum 2018, Oct. 2-4 “Conservation isn’t just the business of a few be offered only by request, and lids for adult cold Six Flags The Great Escape & Splashwater Kingdom people. It’s a matter that concerns all of us.” beverages will no longer be offered. For guests Lake George, N.Y. In keeping with that credo, the Walt Disney with disabilities who need to use straws or lids, Contact: Liderby Gladden, Manager Co. is making another move that will benefit the alternative options will be provided as necessary; Global Education IAAPA environment, and the greater good, at its theme the Services for Guests with Disabilities team will www.iaapa.org or email: [email protected] park complex in Southern California. be available to assist before and during a visit. • By mid-2019, the Disneyland Resort will “Eliminating plastic straws and other plastic ASTM F-24 Meeting on Amusement Rides and Devices eliminate single-use plastic straws and plastic items are meaningful steps in our long-standing Oct. 10-13, San Diego, Calif. stirrers as part of company’s commitment to commitment to environmental stewardship,” said www.astm.org/meetings reduce plastic waste at its locations around the Bob Chapek, chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences • world. In addition, the Anaheim destination is and Consumer Products. “These new global 2018 Owners Meeting and Safety Symposium Oct. 12 & 13, , Bristol, Conn. reducing in-room plastics by 80 percent, reducing efforts help reduce our environmental footprint (Oct. 12: Hands on workshops and the use of plastic shopping bags and eliminating and advance our long-term sustainability goals.” Dean Lamanna Haunted Graveyard tour in evening polystyrene cups. — Oct. 13: Site Controller testing in the morning and close-up look and flight experience of the new Sky Sled harness system in the afternoon) ONE STOP FOR ALL YOUR (410) 643-9300 x304 • www.rideentertainment.com World Waterpark Assn., Oct. 23-26 WATERPARK NEEDS Trade Show: Oct. 24 & 25 We have developed a complete line of high performance Las Vegas, Nev. • (913) 599-0300 • www.waterparks.org polyurethane systems that are specialized for the following applications: • Parks and Carnivals Education (PACE) Amusement Ride Safety Seminar • Swimming Pools • Metal Supports & • Water Slides Oct. 29-Nov. 1, York, Pa. • Lazy Rivers Frames • Flexible Padding System • Rock & Waterfalls • Decorative Concrete • NonSlip/Safety Surfaces (Classroom training location TBA • Fiberglass Elements Deck Systems • Float-ables Hands-on training at Majestic Midways Winter Quarters, Dover, Pa.) www.paceseminar.com/index.html • Pennsylvania Amusement Ride Safety Seminar Nov. 6-8, Red Lion Hotel, Harrisburg, Pa. Joe Filoramo, (717) 215-4316 Long-Term Ultimate Color & High Chlorine Outstanding Self-Primer Phil Slaggert, (561) 758-3266 UV Resistance Gloss Retention Restistance Abrasion Resistance www.paridesafety.com SPLASH DECK SLIDE • ARMOR ARMOR ARMOR IAAPA Attractions Expo, Nov. 12-16 BEFORE BEFORE BEFORE Conference: Nov. 12-16 Trade Show: Nov. 13-16 Orlando, Fla. • (703) 836-4800 •www.iaapa.org • IAFE Annual Convention, Nov. 25-28 San Antonio, Texas (417) 862-5771 • iafeconvention.com ORDER ONLINE WATERPARKTECH.COM CALL US AT 314-524-0191 2019 AIMS International 2019 Safety Seminar Jan. 13-18, 2019 San Luis Resort and Hilton Hotel (Classes at Galveston Convention Center) Galveston, Texas • (714) 425-5747 www.aimsinlt.org • IAAPA FEC Summit 2019 Jan. 27-29, 2019 • Austin, Texas Hyatt Regency Lost Pines www.iaapa.org • NAARSO 2019 Safety Fourm Jan. 27 - Feb. 1, 2019• Myrtle Beach, S.C. Kings Plantation Hilton, Myrtle Beach Hands on ride training at Broadway at the Beach (813) 661-2779 • email: [email protected] www.naarso.com • IISF Trade Show February 5-8, 2019 Riverview, Fla. • (813) 677-9377 www.gibtownshowmensclub.com • IRT/iROC Operations Safety Training School Feb. 5-8, 2019 • Foley, Ala. The Park at OWA (615) 545-8109 • [email protected] Hands on ride operations training at The Park at OWA • Have a Calender listing you want to share? Email it to: [email protected] October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 61

32nd ANNUAL SAFETY FORUM Jan. 27 – Feb. 1, 2019 Kingston Plantation Hilton ResoRt and BRoadway at tHe BeacH Myrtle Beach, S.C..

Up-to-date training and dynamic hands-on activity experience! OPERATIONS CERTIFICATION Primary & Advanced Operations Classes Exams for both levels offered on Thursday, Jan. 31, 2019! (must meet eligibility requirements) · Registration begins on Sunday, January 27, 2019. · Classes end after noon on Friday, February 1. · Inspector Level I & Level II certification exams are Friday afternoon. · Tuition cost is $475 for current 2018 members of NAARSO, non-member’s tuition cost is $550.

Kingston Plantation Hilton ResoRt · 1000 Beach Club Dr., Myrtle Beach, S.C. 29572 Room rates are $82 plus tax single/double. · Attendees call (800) 876-0010 or visit kingstonresorts.com and use promo code “AMU” by Jan. 7, 2019, to get the stated room rate.

· Offering Limited SpeciaLty and train the trainer classes on Sat. & Sun., Jan. 26 & 27, for $100. · Annual membership meeting will be on Sunday, Jan. 27 (Kingston Plantation Hilton) at 1:30 p.m. Full brochure will be posted later in 2018! www.naarso.com 62 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018 CLASSIFIEDS

AUCTION FOR SALE FOR SALE

Moser Flipping Action Arm P/M.....$99,000 Chance Century Wheel P/M.....$199,000 Chance Pharoahs Fury T/M..... $550,000 Wisdom Tornado T/M...... $139,000 Tivoli T/M...... $399,000 2010 ARM Vertigo T/M...... 400,000 ARM Happy Viking T/M...... $89,000 Kolinski Slide T/M...... $39,000 STAINLESS STEEL LOCKERS Zamperla Tea Cup T/M...... $49,000 (2 years old) Manufactured by American Locker 2016 KMG Freak Out T/M.... $725,000 Zamperla T/M.....$299,000 Keyed in two sizes: Zamperla Shocker T/M...... $250,000 230 lockers – 12” X 8” X 13” Expo Wheel T/M...... $299,000 and 54 lockers – 20” X 12” X 13”

Keyed for all-day rental • $50,000 OBO. Call Len or John (908) 526-8009 Contact: FAX: (908) 526-4535 INSIDE: www.Rides4U.comTM & ©2017 Amusement Today, Inc. Eric Bertch (319) 290-7588 Ohio State Fair September 2017 | Vol. 21 • Issue 6.1 ANNIVERSAR ride accident opens Symbolica dark ride, its largest-everY impacts project all aspects of industry FOR SALE ETF provides vehicles; Garner Holt Productions PAGE 30 supplies animatronics www.amusementtoday.com

AT: Andrew Mellor OPERATING BUSINESS [email protected] KAATSHEUVEL, The — On July 1 the Dutch theme park, Efteling, CLASSIFIEDopened its latest major attrac- ADS Operator/operator of carousel business tion to the public in the shape of Symbolica: Palace of Fantasy, a €35 million ($41.1 million) is retiring and willing to sell business. investment built to mark the park’s 65th anniversary year. More than 35 top quality locations $20 minimum, across the country. up to 30 words Symbolica is an indoor, family attraction designed as Opportunity for growth and expansion. an ($1 enchanting per palace additional in which nothing is what it seems. It joins other major fantasy- Symbolica features a seven-minute dark ride which utilizes a based indoor attractionsword) such trackless system from Dutch company ETF Ride Systems. A as Droomvlucht, Fata Morgana wide variety of scenes have been created for visitors to en- For more information and Carnaval Festival. joy throughout the Symbolica dark ride. The King’s Hall (be- Located in the center of the low and right) is one of the rooms Efteling guests can enjoy. park at the end of the Pardoes COURTESY EFTELING contact Len or Earl Promenade, Symbolica is sur- DISPLAYrounded by a palace garden AD: $50 per partly inspired by the gardens Rides 4 U of other large palaces. The gar- den is uniquecolumn for its themed inch design and also incorporates a (908) 526-8009 roof garden in which approxi- mately 800 solar panels have been included (a for1-point the genera- rule will tion of sustainable energy. Symbolica: Palace of Fan- tasy was constructedappear over aaround ad) period of a year and a half and is the most expensive and larg- story! 4See EFTELING, page 5 whole Due the 10th of the Get the in print!

Dated material. month prior to TO DO: Amusement Today .com! NEWSPAPER

POSTMASTER: PLEASE RUSH!

Mailed Tursday, Auust 2, 201 issue date ·Subscribe to

PERMIT # 2069 # PERMIT EXTRA! EXTRA! Desktop Edition FT. WORTH TX WORTH FT.

PAID ·Receive via email everyAmusementToday morning! US POSTAGE US PRSRT STD PRSRT ·Get the latest at

REGISTRATIONS WWW DUE NOW! .GOLDEN TICKET AWARDS.COM

Call Sammy (817) 460-7220 (817) 460-7220 www.AmusementToday.com October 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 63 64 AMUSEMENT TODAY October 2018